Weekly Mercury and Hawke’s Bay Advertiser 1877 – Volume II Number 064 – 3 February

WEEKLY MERCURY
AND
Hawke’s Bay Advertiser,

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

Vol. II. – No. 64.   NAPIER, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1877.   PRICE SIXPENCE

HAWKE’S BAY HOSPITAL.
COMMITTEE:
Mr. J.A. Smith,
Mr. J.G. Kinross,
Capt. A Newman,
Mr. J.N. Williams,
Mr. J.D. Canning,
Mr. J. Anderson,
Col. C. Lambert,
Mr. J. Joshua,
Mr. T.K. Newton,
Mr. G.E. Lee,
His Worship the Mayor of Napier,
Mr. M.R. Miller,
Mr. H. Cable.
Hon. Sec., J.A. Smith.

A RECENT Act of the General Assembly having granted 3½ acres of Land adjoining the Immigration Barracks as the site for a new Hospital in Napier – which is much required, there being want of space on the present ground- the Inhabitants of Hawke’s Bay are requested by the Committee to subscribe to so desirable an object.
The Maoris of Hawke’s Bay are particularly invited to join in this movement, which applies to all alike, and it is hoped that it may lead to increased friendly feeling between the two races. The Maoris are requested to give land instead of money, as it will perpetuate their names in the future, and show posterity how the aboriginal natives of the country and the European settlers progressed together.
It is proposed that any person giving £100 or more in money, or an equivalent in land, shall become a Life Governor.
Subscription lists are left with the members of the Committee, at the Banks, and with numerous settlers

SMALL FREEHOLD PROPERTIES AT WAIROA,
40 TO 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: –
No. 39 – 50 acres   No 65 – 60 acres
No. 37 – 60 acres   No. 66 – 60 acres
Also, from Wm. Couper, Esq., to sell, on same date and in same district,
No. 43 – 40 acres    No. 63 – 40 acres
No. 59 – 50 acres   Block 6 – 160 acres
No. 62 – 40 acres   Block 7 – 200 acres
Liberal terms.
Plans may be had at the office of the auctioneer
M. R. MILLER.

500 SHEEP FOR SALE.
MERINO WEDDERS, 6 and 8 tooth, delivery immediate
1000 Merino Wedders, full mouth, delivery December
1000 Merino Ewes, full mouth, delivery February
1000 Merino Ewes, full mouth, delivery January
1000 Cross-bred Ewes, mixed ages, delivery February
4000 Cross-bred Ewes, mixed ages, delivery February
1000 Cross-bred Ewes, 2, 4, and 6-tooth, delivery January
3000 Cross-bred Wedders, 2 and 4-tooth, delivery January
1500 Cross-bred  Wedders, 6 and 8 tooth, Delivery January
A small pure bred Lincoln Stud Flock 2 Ewes, Rams, and Lambs.
M. R. MILLER.

LOOK OUT! LOOK UP!
YOUR broken Umbrellas and Sunshades and SAVE MONEY by having them re-covered in any material you like, or repaired neat and strong.
On Sale, Umbrellas and Sunshades, cheap and good, imported direct. Old Umbrellas bought or exchanged.
E.T. WOODCOCK,
Umbrella Maker,
Shakespeare Hill, Napier.

PRELIMINARY NOTICE.
SHAMROCK SALE YARDS.
THURSDAY FEBRUARY 8, 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.

WAIPUKURAU.

FIRST HALF-YEARLY SALE OF SHEEP, CATTLE, AND HORSES.
Wednesday, February 7, 1877,
At  half-past 11 o’clock sharp.
MR. J. J. TYE
Has received instructions to sell by Public Auction, on the above date, at his new Yards, opposite the Railway Station, the undermentioned Stock.
100 HEAD 2 TO 4 YEAR OLD STEERS, from T. Crosse, Esq.,
RAMS
150 Merino Rams, 2-tooth and upwards, bred by Hon. H. R. Russell, out of pure pedigreed ewes, by high priced Dowling Rams.
30 Merino Rams, 4-tooth and upwards, bred by Hon. H. R. Russell, out of pedigreed ewes, by Currie Rams.
31 Merino Rams, 2-tooth, bred by T.P. Russell, Esq., by Currie Rams.
80 Lincoln Rams, 2-tooth and upwards, bred by Hon. H. R. Russell, by imported Kirkham rams.
20 Lincoln Rams, 2-tooth, bred by T. P. Russell, Esq., by imported rams.
19 Lincoln Rams, 6 and 8-tooth, bred by T.P. Russell, Esq., by imported rams.
6 Cotswold Rams, mixed ages.
WETHERS
1000 Fat Longwool Wethers, 4-tooth, bred by Hon. H.R. Russell.
500 Fat Longwool Wethers, 6-tooth, heavy weights, bred by Hon. H. R. Russell.
500 Fat Merino Wethers, 6-tooth, heavy weights, bred by the Hon. H. R. Russell.
EWES
1500 Merino Ewes, mixed ages, bred by A. St. Hill, Esq.,
1200 Longwool Ewes, 2-tooth and upwards, bred by Hon. H. R. Russell.
500 Merino Ewes, 2-tooth and upwards, bred by Hon. H. R. Russell.
700 Longwool Ewes, mixed ages, bred by Hon. H. R. Russell.
1000 Cross-bred Ewes, 8-tooth, bred by H. H. Bridge, Esq.,
HORSES
3 Colts, by Black Champion
4 Superior Draught Horses
1 Pair Carlyon Ponies, broke in to Harness
And
Several Colts and Fillies by Pacific, Kingfisher and other well-known Sires.
In addition to the above list there are several large lots, particulars of which have not yet come to hand.
JOSEPH J. TYE,
Auctioneer.

CONSIGNMENT FLOUR, OATMEAL, BRAN, OATS.
FOR SALE,
20 TONS 200lb, Silk dressed Dunedin Flour.
20 bags, 50 lb, Silk dressed Dunedin Flour.
5 sacks Oatmeal, Dunedin, new
204 bags Bran, Dunedin, new
484 bags Feed and Seed Oats.
Apply to
MURRAY, COMMON & CO.

IN pursuance of “The Regulation of Elections Act, 1870,” I, Richmond Beetham, Returning Officer for the Electoral District of Napier, do hereby give notice that by virtue of a Writ bearing date the 23rd day of January, 1877, under the Public Seal of the Colony, an Election will be held for one qualified person to serve as member of the House of Representatives for the said Electoral District, and that the NOMINATION of Candidates will take place at the Resident Magistrate’s Court House, at Napier, at noon on the EIGHTH day of FEBRUARY, 1877, and that the POLL, if necessary, will be taken on the  FIFTEENTH day of FEBRUARY, 1877.
RICHMOND BEETHAM,
Returning Officer.

The following are the POLLING PLACES for the Electoral District of Napier: –
The Resident Magistrate’s Court House, Napier
The Court House, Wairoa
The Schoolhouse, Petane
The Schoolhouse, Puketapu
The Police Station, Taradale
Mr. Carr’s Schoolhouse, Meanee [ Meeanee ]
The Schoolhouse, Hastings.
RICHMOND BEETHAM,
Returning Officer.

ORMONDVILLE HIGHWAYS DISTRICT.
TAKE NOTICE, the Valuation List for the above district is now open for inspection at Mr. R. McKnight’s, Waipukurau. All objections thereto must be left at the Schoolhouse, Norsewood, on or before the 15th day of February, addressed to the Assessment Court; and a copy of every such objection must be left at Mr. McKnight’s, not less than seven days before the next sitting of the said Court.
ALFRED LEVY,
Chairman.

MEANEE HIGHWAY BOARD.
NOTICE TO RATEPAYERS.
THE Valuation List for the year 1877-8 is now open for inspection at Mr. Barry’s Store, Taradale. All objections thereto must be left at the Resident Magistrate’s Court, Napier, on or before the 15th day of February, addressed to the Assessment Court, and a copy of every such objection must be left at my house, not less than seven days before the next sitting of the said Court.
THOMAS PEDDIE,
Chairman.

HERETAUNGA ROAD BOARD.
THE Valuation List is now open for inspection at the Schoolhouse, Hastings. All objections thereto must be left at the Resident Magistrate’s Court, Napier, on or before the 15th day of February, addressed to the Assessment Court; and a copy of such objection must be left at the residence of Mr J. McLeod, Schoolmaster, Hastings, not less than seven days before the next sitting of the said Court.
J.N.WILLIAMS,
Chairman.

TO THE RATEPAYERS OF THE WEST WOODVILLE HIGHWAY DISTRICT.
TAKE NOTICE, the Valuation List for the West Woodville Highway District for the year 1877, is now open for inspection at Monteith and Fountaine’s Store, Woodville. All objections thereto must be left on or before the 15th day of February, addressed to the Assessment Court, and a copy of every such objection must be left  at Monteith and Fountaine’s Store, Woodville, not less than seven days before the sitting of the next Court.
H. MONTEITH,
Chairman West Woodville Highway Board

PAPAKURA ROAD BOARD.
NOTICE TO RATEPAYERS.
THE Valuation list is now to be seen at Mr. Vaughan’s Hotel, Meanee. All objections thereto must be left at the Resident Magistrate’s Court, Napier, on or before the 15th day of February, addressed to the Assessments Court; and a copy of every such objection must be left at Mr. Vaughan’s addressed to the Chairman of the Road Board, not less than seven days before the next sitting of the said Court.
S.G. BRANDON,
Chairman

CLIVE ROAD BOARD.
NOTICE TO RATEPAYERS.
THE Valuation list is now open for inspection at Mr. Caulton’s Hotel, West Clive. All objections thereto must be left at the Resident’s Magistrate’s Court , Napier, on or before the 15th day of February, addressed to the Assessment Court; and a copy of every such objection must be left at my house, not less than seven days before the next sitting of the said Court.
F. SUTTON,
Chairman.

WAIPIKURAU ROAD BOARD.
VALUATION LIST.
TAKE NOTICE, the Valuation List for Waipukurau Road Board for the year 1877 is now open for inspection at Henry Monteith’s Office, Waipukurau. All objections thereto must be left at the R. M. Court, Waipawa, on or before the 15th day of February, addressed to the Assessment Court, and a copy of every such objection must be left at the Collector’s ( H. Monteith’s Office ) not less than seven days before the next sitting of the said Court.
HENRY MONTEITH,
Clerk to the Waipukurau Highway Board.

NORSEWOOD HIGHWAY DISTRICT.
NOTICE TO RATEPAYERS
THE Valuation List is now open for inspection at Norsewood Store. All objections thereto must be left at the Schoolhouse, Norsewood, on or before the 15th day of February, addressed to the Assessment Court and a copy of every such objection, addressed to the Road Board, must be left at the Norsewood Store not less than seven days before the next sitting of the said Court.
ALFRED LEVY,
Valuer.
January 15, 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 to have the convenience of the country, rarely offered. The price very moderate.
For further particulars, apply to
M.R. MILLER.

2   THE WEEKLY MERCURY.

[…]

WAIROA.
( FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)
January 20.
The Wairoa County Council have unanimously adopted the Counties Act in its full and unrestricted form. The Council adjourned until 7 p.m., the time when the estimates, receipts, and proposed expenditure will be submitted, and the rate proposed to meet expenditure.

[…]

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   3

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MR. BUCHANAN’S  ADDRESS TO THE ELECTORS.
Mr. Buchanan met the electors in the Oddfellows Hall on Friday. The hall was crowded in every part. Mr. Lee was voted to the chair.
Mr. Buchanan, in coming forward, referred briefly and in touching terms to the cause of the present vacancy, occasioned by the death of Sir Donald McLean. Although it had been the speaker’s fate to be during many years a political opponent of Sir Donald McLean, that antagonism in no way operated against the private friendship that existed between them. The late Sir Donald himself acknowledged that that opposition was straightforward and open. He ( Mr. Buchanan ) was not there to panegyrise the political acts of the late Sir Donald McLean, that by some might be deemed distasteful. He was, however, at liberty to speak of him as a private gentleman – as one who possessed qualifications of such a genial nature that they disarmed the opposition he would certainly have had otherwise to contend against. Mr Buchanan would touch upon the subjects referred to in his printed address. He would not find fault with the criticism bestowed by his opponents on that address, for he felt assured had it even possessed the character expected from it it would still have been faulty in the eyes of those who had criticised it. The

AUTHORSHIP OF THAT ADDRESS
had  been denied of him. That was a matter of little moment to him. His name however, was appended to it, and by a governing rule in politics he should be allowed to claim that article as his own. As a matter of fact the address was written by him, no other individual in the place having had any hand in it. No one saw it till he had it finished. Whatever merits or demerits it may possess he solely was responsible for them. He would now desire to explain more fully the subjects therein treated.

INSULAR SEPARATION.
In the first paragraph of that address, the question of insular separation – the subdividing the colony into two, with separate Governments, he was opposed to in toto. Upon no conditions would such a scheme meet with his assent. Separation of any character whatsoever he would resist to the utmost. Financial separation was beyond his conception. With the present enormous debt hanging over the country, financial separation was only a dream. That debt in itself was the most effectual barrier to financial separation that could be devised. For political purposes it suited very well last session for Separation to be held up as a threat to counteract that most pernicious system , the abolition of the provinces. He had no sympathy with that revolutionary measure. We had by no means yet arrived at that stage for the country to adopt the County system. This opinion he had held all along. The new system would bring with it a train of evils, at present little foreseen. He would instance Hokianga County where five-sevenths of the Councillors were Maoris or half-castes. Those Councillors will have the levying of their rates in the district they represent, the result practically being that their lands will be exempt from rating. Abolition is a leap from the frying-pan into the fire, and  Countyism is far worse. Under the old regime, all that was required was better administration. If elected he would accord the present Government his support. Why should he not do so? It seemed disappointing to a great many that he should be found on the side of any body of men who had the administration of affairs. He would be the last to vilify those who, perhaps, from some constitutional habit, are prone to criticise. In all deliberative assemblies such men are invaluable; for, if they do no good, they prevent harm. Such is the case in the old country. Why, he would ask, should he not support the present Ministry? The Ministry he was opposed to twelve months ago, where are they now? One to whom he had referred to that evening has passed away to his long home. Sir Julius Vogel is gone to England a broken man. Mr. Reynolds had left the Ministry, and Mr. Richardson was on his way to the old country. On the other hand will be found Major Atkinson who was a member of the Stafford Government one of the present Ministry. The same with Mr. Bowen,  Mr. Stafford’s protege. Mr. Donald Reid had also been a member of the Stafford Ministry. The residents here are well aware that he ( Mr. Buchanan ) has throughout supported the Stafford Ministry. Now, after the whirligig of time has brought back the hands of politics to where they formerly were, why should he change the position he has throughout maintained. Although he had expressed confidence in the existing Ministry, it was not unqualified confidence. He never yet held the opinion of “Men before Measures.” He believed the present Ministry had work in hand which needed the strong support of every man to bring to a successful issue. But he had yet to see that it had the capacity and will necessary for that purpose. Should these qualities be lacking he would be prepared to use his endeavours to put in power men better able to administer the affairs of the country. (Hear, hear, and applause.) He would now address his remarks to the question of

IMMIGRATION.
The lapse of time has only strengthened the opinions he has already expressed on this important topic. Until the country is better prepared to receive people, it should cease to expend money on immigration. These views he expounded twelve months ago at Waipukurau. He hoped with the spread of settlement there would be better means of locating the people on the land than at present in vogue. He was not animadverting in any way upon the gentleman who administered the affairs of the district, but there must be greater vigour shown by the Government in settling the people on the land than has hitherto been displayed. Unless this is done the country will lose what has entailed a great expense in bringing here. The bone and sinew that have been imported are our most valuable possessions. Then, in the special settlement of the country, it must be remembered how largely it depended upon the proper administration of the

NATIVE  LANDS.
The settlement of the country depends on the judicious administration of the laws pertaining to native lands. In certain districts, where the native titles to lands have been extinguished, native owners should be dealt with the same as Europeans. Here, in the North Island, two-thirds of the country is in the hands of native owners. It is evident that there are districts, however, such as the Waikato, Taupo, and Kawhia on the West Coast, and other places, where that system would not apply, where the force of circumstances would necessitate a different course in treating with the natives. The question of

EDUCATION
would  next come on for consideration. It was a subject that required handling delicately, but he had no wish to avoid it. He did not exactly understand what those people meant who were continually talking about a secular system of education. According to some it meant the utter exclusion of everything in the shape of incalculating [Incuculating?] religious doctrines in school. There are two systems of secular education: one that prevails in Victoria, that is the purest secular system; the other, is that which exists in England, and known by the name of the Forster system, having been initiated by the Hon. Mr. Forster of Bradford, Yorkshire, who is looked upon by the English Liberals as the successor of Mr. Gladstone. Any system then which has been for so many years in force in England, and that can boast such an able expositor as Mr. Forster may be fairly looked upon as a liberal system. No state aid whatever is granted to those schools. In Victoria the control of the schools is in the hands of the Government, to which principle he (Mr. Buchanan) was strongly opposed. He had no wish to force people’s consciences into any particular groove, but he should like to see concession taught to, what some may deem, prejudices. If we are to have a system at all , it becomes the duty of the Government, it behoves them, upon economical grounds to avail itself of whatever aid it can. This country is not in the position to adopt that elaborate system of education founded in Victoria. For New Zealand there must be modifications of it, and the English system .The compulsory system cannot be adopted here. In the country, how could it be managed? Looking at the principles of the English measures for education, he would rather adopt the opinions – the result of forethought and impartiality – of a gentleman like Mr. Forster, than the extreme views of any section of the community, like those which have emanated from the Victorian Legislature. Mr. Buchanan would now refer to a subject fraught with interest to a considerable number of the electors of this district. He alluded to the

FRIENDLY SOCIETIES BILL.
During last session the Government introduced a measure to regulate them. The reception it met with was not encouraging to the Government, and the opposition it sustained he thought was based on solid grounds. Whether the attempt of last year will be made again during the ensuing session, he was not prepared to state. If it is, he hoped the same system of espionage would not be persisted in. It should be the endeavour of the country to suit the clauses of a new Bill to the circumstances of the country in which they were in, rather than to the circumstances of a country in which more elaborate views may be necessary. The inquisitorial system shown in the spirit of legislation last year in this respect, will, if renewed, certainly meet with his opposition. (Applause.) He was not unconscious of the fact that the present election would, in a great measure, be decided by personal and local considerations; but he would not shrink from expressing the views he held. Prominent among them will be questions relating to native lands. He denied that this contest was, as asserted by some to be a contest between what is called the “Repudiation Party” and “that portion of the community who hold those broad lands that lie in luxurious splendour before us.” ( The speaker now referred to the Heretaunga lands, and blamed the Provincial Government of the time for not acquiring for the public estate those lands, and also a hundred thousand acres extending towards Major Carlyon’s run.) He desired from the first that old provincial squabbles should lie buried in the past; but when one of the candidates thought fit to remove the dust that was covering them like a funeral pall, he could not allow it to pass unnoticed. He would now place before his hearers the political aspect of the present contest. Of the four candidates in the field, each represented a particular section of the community. It would however be his endeavour to bring to his side all those sections who do not hold extreme views. ( Applause.)  He could not expect  the support of that particular section who are going down –  who would go down – with the avowed intention of seeking to bring legislation to bear with a view to validating certain titles to land.  He entirely set his face against Hawke’s Bay land squabbles being brought before the House. The House was surfeited with them. Whatever judicial questions may be concerned in connection with those lands, a Court of law is the proper tribunal to deal with the matter. He favoured a system of compromise between Europeans and natives. It is a vain hope for the cause of the repudiation interests to be tempted to force their grievances into the House to get what he might  term valid legislation. ( Applause. ) What has been looked forward to and hoped for is that Mr. Ormond’s influence in the General Assembly will be able to carry measures of that kind by a congenial representative being sent from this district. That is a delusive hope, for the reason that the individual interest possessed by Mr. Ormond in this question is of a very mild nature, and in no way disturbed his rest; materially, it detracts nothing from his wealth. Mr. Ormond has no desire to raise an opposition against himself in the House. Besides, the question is distasteful to him, and would be to his colleagues in the House. Why should  they jeopardise themselves over a Hawke’s Bay land squabble? No, they are too good legislators for that. He (Mr. Buchanan ) would advise compromise, if  that  failed, then go to law.
Mr. Harding asked – Would Mr. Buchanan, if elected, support a Permissive Bill?
Mr. Buchanan complimented  Mr. Harding on the persistency with which he put that question to candidates, and he expressed his sympathy with the cause that Mr. Harding had so much at heart, but he did not think the people could be coerced into sobriety, and he thought the attempt to do so would be wrong.
Mr. Buchanan, in reply to electors, said he would support a vote for the Spit Bridge, and he thought an artificial harbor was necessary. He would be in favor of a land tax graduated according to the value of the lands, and such tax should extend to native lands. He was opposed to the payment of members. He was in favour of the whole County Act being brought into force.

4   THE WEEKLY MERCURY

LOCAL AND GENERAL NEWS

The very important agreement come to between the Messrs. Watt and the Maori claimants to the Kakiraua and Te Airaoteatua Blocks was finally signed by all the grantees, in the presence of the Frauds Commissioner, R. Beetham, Esq. The transaction is a settlement of Messrs. Watt’s title. The blocks had been originally dealt with by Messrs. Coleman, Tanner, Sutton, and others. The total amount paid by these parties to the natives, who were alleged to have sold and mortgaged was about £2,300, and now we understand that, besides other considerations, the Messrs. Watt pay a sum of £17,500 for a good title. There has been a good deal of speculation for some months past as to whether Mr. Sheehan would succeed in getting the whole of the natives to sign. All doubts however, are now set at rest on that point. We hope that the natives will make a better use of the money which they now receive than they were accustomed to do in past times.

All sorts of stories continue to be told of the various candidates. To those in the habit of going to auction sales in Napier, the amiable features of a well-known lady dealer are familiar. To this lady a candidate addressed himself at a sale the other day, saying, ”Ah Mrs. F___, if you were an elector I’m sure I could count on your vote, but will you oblige me by using your influence over your husband to secure his vote to me?”   “If you want my influence,” replied Mrs. F___, “It’s no use you coming to auctions.”

[…]

We certainly object to the tone of “Sporting Notes” on an election, but as “the notes” may interest a few of our readers we make the following extract: – “Mr Sutton still continues first favourite, and bets have been made that he will take half the votes polled. Mr Tiffen’s address has not improved his chances, he is considered entirely out of the race. Mr Rhodes will secure the Wesleyan votes, which do not count for much; the fact of his father being present at the burning of John Wesley’s house, makes the candidate a pillar of the church that must be supported.  Mr Buchanan’s committee are working tooth and nail, but that gentleman’s connection with the Sheehan party is no recommendation. It is thought Mr B. has been trained in the wrong stable. He is expected to make a good second.”

The usual monthly inspection of the Napier Artillery Volunteers was held in Capt. Routledge’s store on Thursday. After the inspection, Major Withers explained to the satisfaction of the company the reason that Corporal George Sellars had been chosen as the extra representative to the Colonial Prize Firing, to be held at Hokitika. It was also decided that, on the arrival of the new uniform, the company should proceed to Waipukurau for their annual course of shot and shell practice. It is proposed that the members shall leave Napier by the last train on a Saturday afternoon, returning by last train from Waipukurau on Monday.

To the Editor: Sir, – Being present at the meeting of electors at Taradale on Wednesday evening, I was surprised to hear Mr. Sutton say, that Mr. Donald Reid deserved his support because in Otago  Mr. Reid is looked upon as the friend of ??? all holder. Mr Sutton appears to be in ignorance of Mr Reid’s previous political career, and therefore, as is usual with him, talked a lot of bunkum. It is well known that Mr Reid was the man who obtained for the great Australian land-shark, Mr Clarke, a large block of fine agricultural land for a very small sum, and not six months ago, he attempted to sell to certain large holders valuable parts of their runs in order to swell the provincial chest. Like his present colleague, Mr. Ormond, Mr Reid throws all his professed principles to the winds when it suits his purpose, and also like Mr. Sutton is a most convenient tool for those who desire to use him for their own particular purposes and selfish ends.  – I am, &c., A VOICE FROM DUNEDIN.

Our Clive correspondent writes as follows: – “Last week our usually quiet little township was enlivened by a ball given by
Mr. G .E. Toop, on account of his taking possession of the Farndon Hotel. Invitations to all the inhabitants of Clive and Farndon district, besides to Napier friends, had been issued and were most heartily responded to. More than one hundred and fifty guests answered the invitation. Clive never did see such a gathering. The youth and beauty which graced the ball shewed the advancement and prosperity of the township, and to the credit of the host and guests, it must be told that the whole was a decided success.

A carpenter, named Daniel Peddie, who left Port Underwood for Blenheim six weeks ago has not been heard of since.
An inquest was held at Titiokura on Thursday, before Samuel Begg  Esq., acting Coroner, touching the death of Robert Dunn who expired suddenly on Tuesday last, when a verdict of “died from the visitation of God” was returned. The deceased who was 50 years of age was held in great esteem by his fellow workmen, who contributed a sufficient sum to have the body brought down to Petane for interment.

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Mr. Buchanan’s address to the electors in the Odd Fellows’ Hall on Friday was well delivered, and moderate in tone. There are very many points on which we cannot agree with Mr Buchanan, but nevertheless he exhibited a temperament which astonished those who had hitherto looked upon him as one unable to control his feelings on political subjects, and he well-earned the vote of thanks accorded him for his address by the large and enthusiastic audience.

The postal arrangements for the conveyance of the Napier-Wellington mails overland, involve a delay at Waipukurau of one day – Sunday. As the coaches conveying the mails also carry passengers this delay is felt to be a very great inconvenience, and when the railway is opened to Takapau, unless an alteration is made, passengers will have to spend Sunday at that terminus on the line. A pleasant  look-out certainly.

The Napier Band, with the worst possible taste, performed on Clive Square on Friday, to the annoyance of everyone attending Mr. Buchanan’s meeting at the Oddfellow’s Hall. The Napier Band expects, and to some extent has appealed to the general public for, support, but it is very unlikely this will be given when the members go out of their way to insult and annoy the whole body of the electors of Napier. We pass over with contempt the fact that one of the pieces notified for performance was entitled “The Vacant Chair.”

[…]

We hear that Mr. Rees, the well-known Auckland barrister and member for City East, has intimated his intention of visiting Napier within the next few weeks in connection with native land business.

At noon on Monday, the Returning Office formally declared Henry Richard Holder duly elected a Councillor for the borough of Napier, in the room of Thomas Kennedy Newton, resigned.

A most interesting ceremony took place (says the N.Z. Times of the 25th instant) at 3 o’clock yesterday at the Synagogue. The marriage of Miss M. Moss (daughter of Mr H .Moss, of this city) , to Mr. A. Manoy, of Napier. At the above hour the bride, richly attired in a white silk handsomely trimmed and attended by five bridesmaids, entered the Synagogue, and took up a position under the canopy beside the bridegroom. The officiating minister was the Rev. D. M. Isaacs, and it is needless to add that the ceremony was most impressively given. The Synagogue long before the ceremony commenced was packed with guests and spectators. The occasion was afterwards celebrated by a dinner and ball.

At the Wesleyan Conference held last Saturday in Christchurch, a recommendation from the Wellington District Meeting, that Rev. J. S. Smalley have permission to return to England, was lost on the voices. Mr. Smalley will, therefore, remain in New Zealand, and will be located at Christchurch, and his place in Napier, we understand, is likely to be taken by the Rev. Mr. Martin.

On Thursday last a dinner was given to Mr. David Levi, late commercial traveller for P. Hayman & Co., who is next week going to take over the business of Mr. Abrahams, of Napier. The dinner was a great success, Mr. Levi being one of the most popular “commercials” in the colony.

From a notification in another column, it will be seen that the Returning Officer has fixed the day of nomination for the forth coming election for Thursday, the 8th day of February, and the polling for the 15th.

The only Ministers now at the seat of Government are the Hon. C.C. Bowen, and the Hon. D. Reid. Towards the end of this week the Hon. J. D. Ormond proceeds to Wellington where shortly the whole of the members of the Cabinet will meet.

Mr. Sutton met the electors at Hastings on Saturday night. The meeting which was held in the schoolroom, was very largely attended, and was presided over by Mr. R. Wellwood. Mr. Sutton’s address, which was for the most part similar to that which he delivered at Napier evoked much applause, and on its conclusion he received a most hearty vote of thanks, which was proposed by Mr. F. Chapman. In our leading article will be found embodied all  the salient points of Mr. Sutton’s address on subjects to which he did not refer at the previous meetings he has held. A cordial vote of thanks to the chairman terminated the proceedings at Hastings.  We are requested to convey Mr. Sutton’s thanks to Mr. W.O. McLeod for the use of the school-room.

[…]

The anniversary services of Trinity Wesleyan Church were conducted on Sunday by the Rev. S. Smalley to large congregations. The discourse of the morning was an able and exhaustive exposition on the Sabbath, showing the permanent obligation Sunday observance is upon all modern Christians. In the evening an eloquent sermon was delivered on the “Cross of Christ and its lessons,” in which the preacher combated the modern theories of F.W. Robertson, Bushnell, Maurice, and others. At each service the Sanctus, Magnificat, and Jubilate were ably sung by the choir.

[…]

Struck by the beauty of the excellent furniture to be seen through the windows of Messrs. Langley and Newman’s shop, a pony left unattended in Emerson-street, walked in to obtain a closer inspection. Having admired the sofas, and chairs, and sniffed at the crokery [crockery], he walked out, evidently determined to show how differently he could behave to a bull in a china shop.

Accepting the letter of Mr. Charles P. Lound, in Monday’s Herald, as an apology to the five or six hundred persons attending Mr. Buchanan’s meeting on Friday last, we must presume that the band’s performance that night was for the purpose of showing the progress Mr. Lound’s pupils have made in their musical studies. We trust the next time the band plays in front of the Hall when a meeting is being held, that the members will show greater proficiency than they did on Friday night.

[…]

Monday was the thirty-seventh Anniversary of the district of Auckland. Notwithstanding the provinces are abolished, the whole of the telegraphic offices in the North are closed to the great inconvenience of persons desirous of communicating by telegraph to any of the townships north of Wairoa. This closing of telegraph offices on Anniversary days is now simply absurd, and it is to be hoped the Government will abolish Anniversaries as they have the provinces.

Our Wairoa correspondent, under date January 27, writes: – For the convenience of travellers coming overland from Napier (take my advice and don’t do it if there is a steamer in a week’s time) let me say that the coach road from Mohaka to Wairoa is impassable; they must take the Hine Paka track. It is impossible to get round the bluff at Patata the shingle being washed away, and the hill, both ascending and descending, is a caution. The natives have been gathering together and having preliminary tangis over Sir Donald McLean’s death for the last day or two. They are anxiously awaiting the arrival of Messrs Locke and Douglas McLean who are expected tomorrow. The County Council meet on the 30th instant, when, it is expected, they will decide upon accepting the Act in its full form.

That notable character known by the name of “Yankee Harry” was placed in durance vile on Monday, having committed a most cowardly and unprovoked assault on Mr. Ford, the landlord of the Criterion Hotel, by striking him violently with his clenched fists in the Horse Repository. He was afterwards arrested by the police, and becoming violent, was handcuffed, and attended by all the gamins of Napier was conveyed to the lock-up.

[…]

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   5

In our columns will be found a summary of the speeches delivered at Hastings on Monday. The meeting was a large one, and there is no doubt that at the commencement of the proceedings Mr. Sutton was highly in favor. Mr. Buchanan’s speech was in his old energetic style. He was followed by Mr. Sutton, and Mr. Sheehan replied to the latter gentleman. Mr. Sheehan is an able platform orator, and succeeded in eliciting, as in Napier, throughout the whole of his address great applause. He is ready-witted, and always able to give a “Roland for an Oliver.” We do not believe he succeeded in altering the opinions of many of those present, but he certainly carried the meeting away by his fervour, eloquence, and sarcasm.

[…]

The Harbor works are now being pushed ahead as fast as weather and circumstances will permit. Considerable progress has been made with the sea wall on the Western Spit, but the whole of the material having to be ferried across it necessarily is a work that will take a long time to complete. The weather lately has been very adverse to the contractors, the heavy gales that have lately prevailed having seriously interfered with both the quarry work and the working of the punts. Nevertheless between eighty and ninety persons, all told, are kept in employment and the contractors are doing all that is possible to make up for lost time. On the Eastern Spit, the piling is being rapidly pushed forward, the driving now ni g [being] much easier.

[…]

A meeting of the Hospital Committee was held on Wednesday. In the absence of the Mayor, Mr Anderson was voted to the chair. There were present Messrs Anderson, Smith, Williams, Kinross, Lee, Newton, and Miller. The minutes were read and confirmed. Letters were read from the Secretary in accordance with instructions given at the previous meeting. Mr Anderson brought up a report in connection with the position of the present Hospital, showing the average number of patients received, and also other information.

When the current licenses of auctioneers have expired, it will interest knights of the hammer to know their position. A license payable to the Borough of Napier will grant no liberty to hold a sale outside the boundaries of the town, and so it will be with regard to licenses payable to county treasuries.

An itinerant boot black has started in business in town but as nobody is proud enough to care about polish, we fear there is not much chance of the enterprising individual making a fortune.

The next Conference of the United Methodist Church is to be held at Napier in January next.

[…]

Mass will be celebrated by the Rev. E. Reignier on Sunday next, the 4th instant, in the Schoolroom, West Clive, at 11 a.m.

[…]

The Star of the South with the Hawke’s Bay portion of the San Francisco mail left Auckland for Napier on Wednesday afternoon.

The ratepayers on Thursday were surprised, and, we trust, gratified, at receiving the Corporation’s demands for payment of water rates. We do not think there was anyone in Napier twelve months ago who did not support the cry for protective measures against conflagration. The Corporation, in response, has borrowed the money, and spent the most of it, to secure a water supply, and, however disagreeable it is now to pay interest and sinking fund on the loan in the form of half-yearly rates, it is one of the privileges of a burgess to pay for that which he has sanctioned.

[…]

We are informed that the Wesleyan Conference which closed on Wednesday, has appointed the Rev. J. Berry to the Napier circuit. Mr Berry has been in the colony 10 years, and during that period has been stationed at Auckland, Wanganui and Christchurch. In all these places he has won golden opinions. He is a comparatively young man, and ranks among the best preachers in New Zealand.

[…]

INTERPROVINCIAL.

HASTINGS.
( FROM OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.)
February 1.
At the Ram Fair there is a good attendance of buyers. About fifteen hundred sheep have been penned, in 246 lots. Of provincial bred, those of Messrs. Nelson, Tanner, and Collins attract most attention. Mr. May’s from Auckland, and Mr. Threlkeld’s from Christchurch, are acknowledged to be very excellent. Messrs. Rich and Shrimpton’s  Merinoes are of splendid quality.
The sales were commenced by Mr. M. R. Miller, who, at 11 o’clock offered Mr. Joseph May’s Lincoln rams to public competition. The following are the prices realised and the names of the buyers: – Lot 1, 5 rams, Hill, £8  5s; lot 2, 5 rams, Ramsay,  £8  10s:  lot 3, 5 rams, Hill, £10;   lot 4, 5 rams, Ramsay, £10;   lot 5, 5 rams, Hill, £9  10s;   lot 6, 5 rams, Knight, £10;  lot 7, 5 rams, Knight, £9  10s;  lot 8, 5 rams, Knight, £12;  lot 9, 5 rams, Knight, £12;  lot 10, 5 rams, Hill, £10;  lot 11, 5 rams, Hill, £7  10s ; lot 12, 5 rams, Hill, £9 10s; lot 13, 5 rams, Newman, £9;  lot 14, 5 rams, Newman, £7 ; lot 15, 4 rams, Chambers, £ 9  10s; lot 16, 10 ewes, Collins, £8  10s; lot 17, 10 ewes, Todd, £7 10s.
On the conclusion of Mr. May’s lots, Mr W. Routledge  (Messrs. Routledge, Kennedy and co.) put up to auction the stud rams from the Hon. Col. Whitmore’s flock. 2 and 4-tooth brought  from  £2 10s to £4; lambs, £2 2s. Messrs. W. and

6   THE WEEKLY MERCURY

F. Nelson’s two-tooth rams were then offered for sale, when the whole of the lots were cleared, after spirited competition, at from £6 10s to £11 per head; a pen of shearlings realised ten guineas ahead, the purchaser being Mr Chambers of Te Mata.

[…]

WAIROA.
(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)
January 31.
At the Council meeting yesterday, the following resolutions were passed: – The Wairoa Ferry to be sold by public auction on the 13th of February; Mohaka Ferry to be taken over on this date.

GISBORNE.
( FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)
February 1.
About 500 natives have arrived at Makarata overland from the Wairoa to attend an important Native Lands Court sitting.
The Standard here is now edited by “Snyder,” who has resigned his interest in the Coromandel Mail. He received a very warm welcome on his arrival.

AUCKLAND.
(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)
February 1
Sailed, yesterday, Star of the South. for Napier. Passengers – Mr. and Mrs, Banks and two children, Miss Trodsham, Messrs. M. Smith, Chatfield, Guthridge, Winter, Batham, Rolleston, W. Robinson, Mr. and  Mrs. E. Thomas, and five in the steerage.

[…]

The Jane Douglas sails to-morrow for the East Coast and Napier.

[…]

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   7

[…]

TRINITY CHURCH SOIREE.
We have never had to chronicle a more successful affair in the shape of Church Soirees in Napier than that which took place on Tuesday, under the auspices of Trinity Wesleyan Church, Clive Square. Upwards of 300 persons sat down to tea in the Protestant Hall, and before 8 p.m. the hour for the commencement of the “festival of sacred music”  the large Church was crowded, the bulk of the congregation being ladies. On a platform surrounding the pulpit the children and teachers of the Sunday School were ranged, and presented a striking feature in the brilliant appearance of the interior of the building.
The proceedings being opened by the pastor with prayer, Joseph Rhodes, Esq., took the chair, and in a few well-chosen remarks addressed those present on the nature and purpose of anniversary entertainments. He was of opinion, judging by the large concourse of people assembled, that an exceptional treat was expected by them, and he, (the Chairman ) had reason to believe their expectations would be fully realised.
The first part consisted of a “Service of Sacred Song, illustrative of the Parable of the Prodigal Son.” This was ably rendered by the occupants of the platform under the guidance of Mr. Walker, Miss Martin presiding at the harmonium. The descriptive text was spiritedly read by the Rev. J. S. Smalley, and the whole of the “Service” – taking three-quarters of an hour in its performance – was creditably done, and elicited the warmest applause.
The Rev. J. S. Smalley then made a feeling appeal to the pockets of those assembled, and whilst the plates were being taken round, a brilliant voluntary on the organ was played by Mr. Percival Bear as an overture to the second part.
The Chairman, after passing a high eulogium on the excellent performance by the children, congratulated the friends on the large gathering – the church was now densely packed in every part, standing room even being unobtainable – and trusted that many more such entertainments would take place in Napier. He expressed his deep interest and sympathy with the Wesleyan Body; his ancestors had lived and died in the village now famous as the birthplace of the founder of Wesleyanism John Wesley. Whilst regretting that Mr. Smalley was shortly to be removed from Napier, he thought the Rev. gentleman would leave behind him a monument of his energy and faithful ministration, not only in the hearts of his congregation and the people of the town generally, but in the splendid edifice where they were then assembled. The sentiments of the chairman were warmly approved.
After an anthem by the choir (“Arise arise”) the Rev. J. S. Smalley, pastor of the Church, addressed the meeting. He said: –
It is not my intention to come between you and the musical pleasures of the evening, but this meeting would hardly be complete without some statement of the affairs of this church. For many years in succession the friends in Napier petitioned the Conference for a Wesleyan minister, but owing to the paucity of candidates for the ministry the Conference were unable to meet this want until some three years ago, when your pastor was appointed to the Napier circuit. At that time the Conference gave me the option of remaining in Wellington, but, leaving myself at the disposal of my brethren, I was sent hither. My work was to minister to our own people, and to all others, of any denomination or of no denomination, who might find profit in our ministrations. The Wesleyan Church is essentially a missionary and aggressive  one  A church that is not aggressive is certainly not in sympathy with the genius of Christianity, which is essentially a missionary religion. There were not wanting indications that Providence had a work for us to do in the general community. The population was estimated at 3600, and the church accommodation was not equal to more than 1200 persons. That our coming here supplied a want is evident by the fact that from the very first occasion of our preaching in the Council Chambers we have had large congregations. The difficulties connected with the erection of the church are well known, but the trustees were not men easily daunted, and “with a long pull and a strong pull, completed this beautiful sanctuary, which I do not hesitate to say is an ornament to the town and a credit to the congregation. During the three years of my residence amongst you the friends have raised the following amounts: – Sustentation Fund, £947; Trust on Building Fund, £860; Poor Fund, £10, Sunday School, £60; Total for all purposes, £1877. These items are within the mark; as our accounts are made up to the end of March, we cannot give the exact figures to a few pounds. To this sum might be added £100 Conference Grant, which was expended in furnishing the minister’s house, and £25, which was paid by the Home Mission Fund to meet connexional claims. While I am speaking on statistics, it may be interesting to state the numerical position of the Wesleyan Church in New Zealand. I am quoting from last year’s minutes, which are now considerably increased: – Full and accredited members, 3302; attendants on public worship, 27,333. We report 500 adherents in the Napier circuit. The Methodist Church is stated on the very best authority to be the largest body in Protestant Christendom. Including the various branches which adhere to the policy and doctrine of Wesley, the numbers have been set down at 14 millions, and this has been accomplished in little more than a century; and so long as the Wesleyan Church is true to the Bible, true to the aggressive spirit of Christianity, and true to its Catholic sympathies as ‘‘the friend of all and the enemy of none,” it shall go forward to achieve yet mightier results in the future. The success which has been vouchsafed by our Devine Head to this, the youngest church in Napier, I ascribe to those principles. If it were not invidious, I would like to mention the names of several gentlemen who have been my faithful and active coadjutors. Some have given money, others have given sympathy and labor, and it would not be an easy task to determine which is most valuable. Their record is on high. God never forgets work that is done with a pure motive for His cause upon earth. It will come back a hundred-fold in blessing upon yourselves and your families. In the order of our church polity which has made three years the maximum period of a minister’s stay in one place, I shall be shortly compelled to enter on another sphere of holy toil. My departure will not be without much pain on my part. I have no complaint to make, unless it be that you have treated me too well, and shown far more leniency towards my shortcomings than I have deserved. May the cloud of the Devine benediction ever rest upon this church, and it shall prosper yet more abundantly.
Mr Gilpin then sang “Rocked in the Cradle of the Deep,’’ which was loudly applauded, after which Mrs Powell sang with much feeling the beautiful sacred song “There’s a Light in the Window for Thee.” This was followed by a duet by Major Withers and Mr Martin, “The Lord is a Man of War.” There was a degree of weakness and nervousness in the latter gentleman’s voice, which somewhat marred the rendering of this beautiful composition.
The Chairman then called upon the Rev. D’Arcy Irvine, who said: -“Mr. Chairman and Christian Brethren, it may not be out of place, considering the building in which we are met together, if I preface the few ’remarks I may make, by drawing your attention to a few passages of Holy Scripture.” The rev. gentleman here quoted largely from both Testaments, and then proceeded: – “The spirit of the Bible breathing in these passages declares Christianity to be the sublime of exclusiveness, and that no man can be a loyal Christian who is not decided, bold and uncompromising. He must be spiritually exclusive, and morally intolerant. Nor does this compel him to be rash, dictatorial, bitter, or repulsive towards men. But inasmuch as charity refers to persons and not to principles, we utterly deny that a stern, unyielding, and exclusive adherence to principles, is either uncharitable, narrow minded, or bigoted. All truth is essentially intolerant when confronted with its opposite – all truth seeks to annihilate the falsehood it abhors. Above all, baptised members of Christ are vowed to a course of conduct, so decided and determined, that they are called by an Apostle “a peculiar people.” What, then, sir, shall we say to that mawkish and miserable philosophy of the age, which brands with the epithets ‘bigoted,’ ‘assuming,’ and ‘audacious,’ all brave-hearted and deep-toned assertions of a religious Creed and a moral science, in opposition to the reigning Pyrrhonism of the age? Men are sent into our world to fight against the world, the flesh, and the devil; and whensoever the first sanctions practices, the second indulgences, and the third tendencies, which are contrary to revealed truth and Christ’s Church, no pusillanimous alarms about ‘bigotry and intolerance ’ should tempt us to a vile neutrality and a villainous indifference. Truth can only be uncharitable to falsehood, and principle intolerant only unto expediency, and therefore in denouncing what Christ and His Church have condemned, and in upholding what the divine Word hath proclaimed, there can be no real uncharitableness towards man. On the contrary the truly uncharitable are those who leave men to perish in their sins, rather than risk offending their pride; and the really illiberal are those dastardly minds who would sacrifice “the truth as it is in Jesus”, for any popular lie or fashionable maxim, which antinomianism of politics, literature, or society may choose to promulgate or adopt. Against this hardened and heartless compromise of truth and principle, for the sake of a false charity and a fictitious Liberalism, God and Nature, Reason and Revelation loudly and perpetually exclaim. Nature herself is, as it were, Athanasian in the nicety and exactness of her distinctions and exclusions. All her works and ways are those of decidedness; there is no indifference about her laws; if a man dare to infringe her institutes, or violate her Canons; a recoil will be felt, which makes both mind and body perceive that decision and definitiveness belong to her constitution. Providence also declares there is no middle path between virtue and vice, truth and falsehood, right and wrong. And as for the doctrines of revelation, – they pronounce a cold neutrality and a dead indifference to be rebellion towards Christ, and treason to His cause. But the prevailing sentiment of the times is at variance with this. A mock idol, a miserable impostor, and a heartless cheat, under the soothing name of ‘Liberality,’ is doing all it can to dishonour God; confound distinctions; annihilate moral certainties; and so to deal with Christianity and Christ’s Church, as if the former of these were an historical problem, and the latter the mere creation of the subjective conscience and will. The object of this revolting tendency is obvious enough, – to expel ‘The Truth’ from the world, and leave every individual mind to discover its own truth, declare its own God, imagine its own Christ, construct its own creed, fabricate its own Church, and thus introduce a pandemonium of human selfishness at last! Against this lying spirit and infidel abomination, the heroic disciple of the cross will set his face ‘like a flint,’ and rather die than be morally indifferent, or spiritually dead towards any one essential truth, principle, or practice concerning which the God of the Universe hath spoken. Heaven’s decisions are earth’s certainties; and he who by faith knows the one can never in fact dispute the other.” (Loud Applause.)
The “Tyrolese Evening Hymn” was then sung by Mrs Percival Bear. This was the gem of the evening, and elicited a rapturous encore, which was complied with, the last verse being repeated. “Pilgrims of the Night,” very sweetly sung by Miss Dora Close, followed, and was succeeded by that soul-stirring aria “Arm, arm, ye brave,” excellently sung by Major Withers, who was in capital voice. Mrs Neill then gave the plaintive air, “But thou didst not leave his soul in Hell,” in her usual manner, after which the choir sang the anthem “Thine O Lord is the greatness.”
The Rev. J.S. Smalley then proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies who had prepared the sumptuous tea; also to the lady and gentlemen and juvenile singers. The rev. gentleman also paid a high compliment to the services of Mr P. Bear, the Church organist, who had trained the choir, and presided at the organ that evening in his usual efficient manner. A cordial vote of thanks was also proposed to the Chairman. These were all carried enthusiastically by acclamation, and the singing of the “Doxology” brought this most successful soiree to a close shortly after ten o’clock.

NAPIER ROWING CLUB.
A GENERAL meeting of the Napier Rowing Club was held on Tuesday at the Criterion Hotel.
W.U. Burke, Esq. in the chair.
Present – Messrs. Burke, Eva, (secretary), Dugleby, Cotterill, J.W. Carlile, R.G. Gibbons, Garner, Lambert, T. Begg, R.Duncan, Bee, McKenzie, J.M. Tabuteau, C. Kennedy, Williams, McLean, Newbold, W.J. Tabuteau, Winter, Carnell, F. Duncan, F. Kennedy, J. Begg, C.A. Tabuteau, F. Parker, Moore, J. Dinwiddie, Dewes, Hennelly, Millar, Gannon, Miller, C.W. MacKenzie, McVay, Liddle (captain), Gilberd, H. Gibbons, P. Bourke, Von Tempsky, Goudy, Morgan, Coward,  Bogle, and Price.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and confirmed.
Rule 12 relating to junior members was confirmed.
The secretary read a resolution from the Committee dealing with certain members who had broken the club rules; also, a letter of apology from these members to the Committee.
The matter was left in the hands of the meeting, and a lively discussion ensued.
On the motion of Mr. J.W. Carlile, seconded by Mr. T. Begg, the letter of apology was accepted unanimously.
Mr. Eva moved, and Mr. Bogle seconded, that during the season all boats reserved during the day shall be at the shed at 4.30 p.m.; and that on Saturdays no boat shall be reserved until after 6 p.m. That the Committee shall have power to exempt any boat or boats from foregoing regulation. – Carried.
Mr. Eva moved, and Mr. Carlile seconded, that junior members when out in the club boats (with the exception of such boats as the Committee may exempt), shall be accompanied by a senior member, – Carried.
It was announced that the two “tub-pairs” would be the exempted boats in the two above resolutions.
Mr. Gibbons moved, and Mr. Dewes seconded, that the “tub-pairs” be the only boats allowed below the bridge, and then only when in charge of senior members. – Carried.
Mr. Gibbons moved and Mr. Hennelly seconded, “That the rule of the road on the river shall be that each boat keep the left hand side, the boat going up stream to be the one to give way in case of there not being sufficient water for two boats to pass.” – Carried.
Moved by Mr. Garner and seconded by Mr Gibbons, “That the Committee be authorised to impose fines upon members for breaches of the Club Rules, such fines not to exceed £1. Any member refusing to pay the same within fourteen days shall be considered as a non-member of the Club. Should the member fined feel aggrieved, he shall have the privilege of appealing before a general meeting of the Club as per rule 9.” – Carried.
Proposed by Mr. T. Begg, seconded by Mr. C.A. Tabuteau, “That Bye-law 3 be altered to read as follows: – All boats be returned to the boat shed by 10.30 p.m.” – Carried.
The following members were appointed the Match Committee: – Messrs. J.W. Carlile, Coward, Dugleby, Guy, Price, Liddle, Eva, Batham, and Bogle.
A vote of thanks to the Chairman brought the proceedings to a close.

WAIROA.
[FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.]
A curious case, suggestive of the different points of view from which a subject may be judged, came before the R.M. Court here the other day. A Maori sued a settler for the value of an ox stated to be shot by the latter. The facts of the case seemed to be somewhat as follows: – The settler went to shoot a bull, a tame wild bull, if such a phrase be allowed, and altho’ an ex-soldier of the French army of Algiers, and an ex-constable of the New Zealand army of Martyrs, he did not manage to drop the animal at a few paces distance under some 12 or 14 shots. It was in very thick manuka, the horns of the animal were only visible,  and at one portion of the battle he had to retire for more ammunition and on his return blazed away with renewed vigor at those horns. When the beast did drop, he went to look, and behold, there were two!  was the aforesaid tame wild bull, and the other, the Maori’s ox. The defendant admitted that at first he really did believe he had shot the pair, appearances were certainly against him at the start, and he admitted as much to the plaintiff, but then afterwards he examined the beast and there was no bullet hole in him, the other one was riddled with bullets. He could only account for it by the idea that the ox being a mate of the bull was so overwhelmed with anguish at seeing his brother made a living target of that he gave up the ghost at his side, expiring of grief. To clear up this point he held a post-mortem examination on the animal, and clearly enough the liver was out of order, quite enough to account for his having died from some sudden shock, such as a fright. The Maori would have it that the bullet had passed through the liver, accounting in that way for its disordered state, and the balance of evidence being against the shootist, he was muleted. Then came the Maori’s turn to distinguish himself. He, be it known, is the hardest nail of all the many hard nails on the river to knock money out of, and always has to be summoned times out of  number before a satisfactory conclusion can be arrived at, so to show his knowledge of the law, he demanded instantaneous payment of his claim or that the defendant should be at once locked up, no time ought be allowed in his case. After that, who can doubt but that the one law should run equally for Pakeha as for Maori. When they have a man in their power they evidently would use it crushingly, and it is to point this very obvious moral that I venture to adorn your pages with this somewhat silly, albeit true tale.

8   THE WEEKLY MERCURY

Shipping Intelligence.

PORT AHURIRI.

ARRIVALS
January.
26 – Sir Donald, s.s., from the Coast
26 – Rangatira,s.s., from Wellington. Passengers – Mesdames Begg, Levi, Wordsworth, Neill, Neale, James, and Richard, Misses Begg, Coleman, Bargrove (2), Windsor, Valentine, and Browne, Messrs Levi, Wordsworth, Richard, James, Hyde, Walsh, Collins, Williams, Villers, Robertson, Stuart, and 9 immigrants, ex Himalaya
27 – Orpheus, schooner, from Mercury Bay
27 –  Hinemoa, schooner, from Hokianga
28 – Schiehallion, barque from London, via Lyttelton
29 – Fiery Cross, schooner, from Hokianga
29 – Kiwi, s.s. from Wellington via the Coast
29 – Hinemoa ,C.G.S.S., from Wellington. Passengers – Mr G.S. Cooper and Miss Cooper
30 – Fairy, s.s., from Wairoa. Passengers  – Mrs White, Misses Carroll (2), Messrs. Locke, Fox, Carroll, and Finlayson
30  – Manaia, p.s., from Wairoa Passengers – Messrs. Steel and Cable, Miss and Master Ormond, Messrs. Robinson and Duff.  From Arapawanui – Mr and Mrs Dinwiddie, and Mrs McKinnon, and several natives in the steerage.
30 – Go-Ahead, s.s., from Auckland via Poverty Bay. Passengers from  Auckland – Messrs. Williams, Selbin, Robertson, Waterworth, Church, Panyen, Brothers, McLean, Thompson, Henderson, Mr and Mrs Plimmer. From Gisborne – Messrs. C. Phillips, Margoliouth, Smith, Caulton, McKenzie, Mr and Mrs Cross and child, Messrs. Tobias Koria, Halles, Te Runa, Maiti, Te Kuri, Kanu, Matthews, and Misses Maria and Seta steerage.
30 – Hinemoa, C.G.S.S., from Poverty Bay.
31 –  Rangatira, s.s., from Wellington. Passengers – Mr. Clayton and son, Mr Christisson, Misses McKenzie, Beale, Derwent, Messrs. Scoble, Rose, (2), Cotter, Simpson, Mr and Mrs Manoy, Messrs. McPherson, Peacock, Miss Moss, Mrs May, Mrs Brown, Misses Smith, Kennedy, Hitchings, Caldwell, Harris, Mr and Mrs W. H. Spiller, Mr Starick, Choukiczee, Chinese Giant, and attendant.

DEPARTURES.
January.
25 – Lochnagar, barque, for London
26 – Sir Donald, s.s., for the Coast
26 –  Waiwera, schooner, for Mercury Bay
27 – Maggie Paterson, schooner, for Wellington
27 – Rangatira, s.s., for Wellington. Passengers – Mesdames McDougall and 4 children, Williams and 2 children, Hallett, and Turner. Misses Miller, Rutherford, Sunderland, and Murray, Hon. R. Stokes, M.L.C., Messrs. McLennan, Davis, Evans, Grant, Sullivan, and 5 in the steerage.
27 – Fairy, s.s., for Wairoa. Passengers – Carroll, Richardson, Locke, Thomson, and 4 in the steerage
29 –  Hinemoa, C.G.S.S., for Poverty Bay
30 – Kiwi, s.s., for Wellington. Passengers Mrs Wells and Mr Pledger.
31 – Go-Ahead, s.s., for Poverty Bay and Auckland. Passengers – Mr and Mrs Hilditch, Mr Gannon, and 2 natives.
31 –  Orpheus, schooner, for Mercury Bay.

The barque Lochnagar, the third wool ship this season, got underweigh on Thursday evening. The Pilot left her off the Bluff, at 6 p.m., and with the wind she had was soon out of sight. We gave a list of her cargo; there were no passengers. We wish Captain Kelly a pleasant and quick trip to the old country.
The s.s. Rangatira, Captain Evans, arrived in the Bay on Friday, after a 25 hours’ run, a better one than she has made for some time past.
The schooner Orpheus has a cargo of sawn timber on board from Mercury Bay.
The barque Schiehallion, Captain Levack, beat up the Bay early Sunday morning, and came to an anchor about 10.30 a.m. She was made fast to the buoy on Monday. She has some original English cargo on board, on discharge of which she will commence to load for Home, and as there is more wool, &c., on the Spit than will fill her, she will have quick despatch.
The schooners Hinemoa and Fiery Cross are both from Hokianga, with piles for the harbor works.
The s.s. Fairy left for Wairoa on Saturday night, with general cargo and a few passengers.
The s.s. Rangatira, Captain Evans, left at 3.30 p.m. on Saturday, with a full cargo of wool and two horses. She also had a large number of passengers. She arrived at Wellington at 3.30 a.m. on Monday.
The s.s. Star of the South, Captain Carey, returned to Auckland on Saturday last from the Fijis, her charter for the interprovincial trade among those Islands having expired.
The s.s Kiwi left Wellington at 7 p.m. on Saturday. She rounded and anchored under Cape Kidnappers at 9.30 a.m. on Monday; she however, did not lay there long, as she weighed and made for port, arriving at 11.30. Probably the strong winds prevented her shipping on the Coast, and so came on as above.
With customary punctuality the English mail arrived on Sunday (due date ) in Auckland, the bearer being the City of New York.
The C.G.S.S. Hinemoa, Captain Fairchild, left Wellington at midnight on Sunday, and arrived here in 19 hours. Captain Fairchild just called to land Mr G.S. Cooper, and he immediately resumed his voyage to Poverty Bay.
The s.s. Fairy, Captain Campbell, returned from Wairoa on Tuesday early. She has as cargo a quantity of wool and fruit. Whilst in the river the Fairy struck a snag, and snapped two blades off her propeller. When the Fairy left the Manaia was up at Turiroa on an excursion trip.
The p.s. Manaia arrived on Tuesday afternoon from Wairoa, with a cargo of wool and several passengers.
The s.s. Kiwi, Captain Campbell, left on Tuesday at 5p.m. for Wellington. Just before leaving a telegram was received stating that the ketch Otaki was on shore at White Rock station, just this side of Cape Palliser, so the Kiwi will call on her way down and if possible get her off. This is the same ketch that was picked up by one of the mail steamers a few months ago, and towed into Wellington.
The s.s. Go-Ahead, Captain McGillivray, arrived on Tuesday, leaving Auckland on Friday, the 30th, at 5 p.m.; called at the Tamaki, and took on board 400 sheep and 60 rams, and sailed again at 8 p.m.; had light westerly winds up until passing White Island, from thence, until rounding the East Cape, fresh westerly winds and thick rainy weather; from East Cape fresh S.S.W. winds until arrival at Gisborne at noon on Sunday; crossed the bar at 4.30 p.m. and landed the sheep in fine order; left Gisborne on Monday at 5.30 p.m. with strong winds; when off Portland Island at 10.50p.m., found the sea heavy and ran back to Happy Jack’s, and took shelter for the night.
The first load of the Schiehallion’s cargo has come ashore, and is being landed in first class condition. There is a large quantity of wool awaiting shipment by her, and the Jane Douglas is expected from Poverty Bay with 200 bales, which she will put straight on board of her.
The C.G.S.S. Hinemoa, Captain Fairchild, arrived in the Bay at 11.30 on Wednesday. On her way from Poverty Bay she called at Portland Island.
The s.s. Rangatira Captain Evans, arrived in the roadstead on Wednesday, at 5.30 p.m., having left Wellington at 5.15 p.m. on the previous evening.
The schooner Orpheus, for Mercury Bay, sailed on Wednesday. On arrival there, she will load another cargo of timber for this port.
The s.s. Go-Ahead, Captain McGillivray, steamed for Gisborne and Auckland on Wednesday afternoon.
We learn that the schooner Acadia left Auckland for Napier, via Mercury Bay on Wednesday. She will load timber for Mercury Bay for this port.
From letters received from Dunedin we learn that the new steamer Wanaka, owned by the Union Company, will shortly be placed on the trade from Dunedin to Auckland via the East Coast, calling at Napier, and will make fortnightly trips. The Wanaka is under the command of Captain Malcolm, formerly of the Stormbird. The Wanaka is (says a Southern contemporary) not a beauty to look at, but is comfortably fitted up for passengers. She is of 277 tons register. She is Glasgow built, her engines are by Messrs. Wingate and Son, of 120 h.p. nominal but capable of being worked up to nearly 700 h.p., and she can steam ten knots easily, and on a pinch eleven knots. Her smoking room in the after deck house is large and comfortable, and the saloon is well fitted and roomy, containing accommodation for 48 gentlemen, whilst the ladies’ cabin seems light and well ventilated. The salle a manger extends the whole beam of the vessel. The Wanaka does not strike one as such a well fitted steamer as the Hawea, Taupo, and others, but is very comfortable, and we hear a splendid sea boat. Mr Scott, who was formerly on the Ladybird, is her purser.
The Sydney Morning Herald, January 8th writes thus of the Wolverine: – H.M.S. Wolverine, which arrived on Friday last, as relieving ship to the Pearl, was built in 1863 and is a sister ship to the Orpheus, which was lost on the Manukau bar. This is her fourth commission, her present having taken place in August 1867. Her appearance is most sightly, and she can attain great speed under canvas alone, having on this her outward trip made many day’s runs at an average of fourteen knots. Under steam, with full pressure, she can accomplish 11½knots per hour, but with ordinary pressure she carries eighteen days consumption of fuel, which will produce a speed of nine knots. She left Plymouth on the 29th of August, and Madeira, on the 16th September calling at Tristan da Acunha on 30th October; supplies were landed, and all the inhabitants were found well in health. On the 10th November the Cape of Good Hope was made; from thence she took her departure on the 18th, and made for the Crozets, which were reached on the 30th; the vessel steamed round the group, and a portion of the officers landed on Possession Island, but fortunately, no sign of wreckage was discovered. The Wolverine has on board a Gatling gun, for ship or field service. It has ten barrels, and discharges 250 shots in 50 secs., and is effective at 1000 yards. She has also a torpedo room, with all the necessary appliances, in short, H.M.S. Wolverine is replete with all the modern improvements, either for attack or defence.

Commercial.
Mr W.K .McLean reports a good attendance at his weekly sale at the Repository, on Saturday, January 27. – Horses were dull of sale; 15 entered ; out of which 7, consisting of light hacks, passed the hammer, at prices ranging from  £4  5s to £8  12s each. Onions, 3d per lb; 6 boxes tea, 22s  6d to 24s; cheese, 5d to 9d per lb; pigs, small store, 9s to 14s 6d each.
On Monday, January 29, at the Repository, – Oranges brought 12s  6d to 13s per case; lemons, 12s  6d per case; pine apples, 9s  6d per dozen; bacon, 7d per lb.
On Wednesday, January 31, at the Repository, – 10 cases cooking apples brought 3 ¾d to 4½d per lb; 30 cases and kits desert apples, 3½d to 4½d per lb; 13 cases oranges, from10s to 12s per case; bananas, 3½d to 4½d per pound. The apples were in fine condition just landed from Wairoa, and next week there will be a similar lot offered.

POST OFFICE NOTICE.
MAIL-CLOSE
For the United Kingdom, Continent of Europe, &c., via Suez and Brindisi, by every opportunity to Wellington, where the mails close on the 11th February.
For Fiji, Sandwich Islands, America, West Indies, United Kingdom, and Continent of Europe, via San Francisco, on Wednesday, the 7th February, at 2.30p.m.
Money Orders for the United Kingdom will close at 11 a.m. on the 7th February.
Registered Letters and Newspapers will close at 1.30 p.m. on the 7th February.
J. GRUBB.
Chief Postmaster.

BIRTHS.
BARKER – At  Napier, on January 25th, the wife of Mr John Barker, of a son
WILKIN – At Clive Grange, on January 31, the wife of Mr. Robert Wilkin, of a son.

MARRIAGES.
MANOY – MOSS. – On the 24th January, at the Jewish Synagogue, by the Rev. M. D. Isaacs, Abraham Manoy, of Napier, to Miss Maira Moss, of Wellington.
CARLILE – BEGG. – At Napier, on the 30th January, by the Rev. David Sidey, William W Carlile, Esq, to Julia Jane, fourth daughter of Samuel Begg, Esq.

DEATHS.
McKAY – At Glasgow, on November 10, John, son of William McKay, miller and grandson of James Campbell and Jane Gordon, of Clunie, Scotland, who served under Colonel Anderson Gordon, of the 50th Regiment of foot, aged 67 years. He left three children to lament his loss. – Inverness papers please copy.
CARLEY. – At the Bank of New Zealand, Opotiki, on the 30th January, of typhoid fever, Laura Frances (Connie) the third dearly beloved and affectionate child of Isaac and Lily Carley, aged six and a half years.
SUTHERLAND. – At the Napier Hospital, on January 30, William K. Sutherland, late of Dunedin, aged 26 years. – Dunedin papers please copy.
BISHOP. – At Hastings, on January 31, Arthur Gaisford, the infant son of Thomas Bishop, Esq., aged nine months.

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

[…]

Government Notifications.

Napier, January 25, 1877.
THE CHAIRMEN of Road Boards are informed that if they do not send in to the Chairman of the County Council for transmission to the Hon. Colonial Secretary, a return stating the amount collected for the past year, ending 31 March, 1876, they will be debarred from any subsidy under the Counties Act.
H.S. TIFFEN.

County Council Chambers,
Napier, January 29, 1877.
THE CHAIRMEN of ROAD BOARDS will please send in a Copy of their Rolls by the 5th of FEBRUARY next, otherwise the Clerk of the County Board will be unable to comply with necessary forms under the Act.
H.S.TIFFEN,
Chairman County Council.

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), Clyde, 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 a copy of every such objection must be left 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.

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.

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

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, Clyde, 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.

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HASTINGS-STREET, NAPIER
MANUFACTURER OF
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PRATT’S STOMACHIC POWDERS – For Children aperient and alterative.
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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.

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   9

The Weekly Mercury
AND
HAWKE’S BAY ADVERTISER.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1877.

MR. TIFFEN has at length issued an address which, to some extent, may be thought to embody his general views on a few of the political and social questions of interest to this constituency. It at all events contains replies to six questions that have been already touched upon by Mr. Sutton and Mr. Rhodes. With respect to immigration, Mr. Tiffen is not very straightforward. He gives no direct reply to the plain question, “Will you use your influence to stay the flood of immigration”? Instead of saying “yes,” or  “no,” Mr. Tiffen considers “the  labor market sufficiently well supplied at present, with the exception of single women,” and further he would advocate a continuance of the nominated system of immigration. Our own opinion is that the labor market is flooded, and that the nominated system of immigration is more than sufficient to supply all demands. With regard to the Spit Bridge, Mr. Tiffen again gives a very evasive reply; he hopes that work “will be taken into account” when the construction of additional wharves and docks has to be considered. He refers to his past advocacy of a breakwater when he was in the Provincial Council, but we rather think the electors want to know what he is going to advocate in the future. To the question – “would you support a Permissive Bill?” there is in the reply a very great diffidence exhibited by Mr. Tiffen to commit himself. He would support a Permissive Bill if it did not oppress the general public, or unduly interfere with vested interests .Now it is precisely to interfere with the vested interests of brewers and publicans that temperance advocates desire to introduce a Permissive Bill. On the educational question, Mr. Tiffen is a little plainer. He is in favour of the system that has been in force in Hawke’s Bay, and is apparently under the impression that it might be made to work for the whole colony. As might be expected, Mr. Tiffen “is square” on the Repudiation question, and, of course, now that there is no land to put them on he is very decidedly in favour of encouraging the settlement of small farmers – or, as it is the fashion to call them – the yeomanry classes. Mr. Tiffen does not touch upon the Counties or the Rating Acts, nor, indeed, does he refer to the new institutions in any way.

As could only have been expected, Mr. Sutton’s address to the electors at Hastings on Saturday was mainly a repetition of that which he had previously stated at Napier, Petane, and Wairoa. It was, however, noticeable that Mr. Sutton spoke very much more to the point than he has yet done during this election contest, and he eliminated from his speech nearly all those references to the other candidates, to which we took exception in his address delivered at Napier. Necessarily some mention had to be made of the opposing candidates inasmuch as all four gentlemen are on the same political platform, and upon their individual claims to support alone can they be judged. The qualifications mostly relied upon by the candidates are their past public actions, and it was in criticising the actions of Messrs. Tiffen, Rhodes, and Buchanan that Mr. Sutton alluded to his opponents. Mr. Buchanan having addressed the electors since Mr. Sutton appeared at the Oddfellow’s Hall, some fresh topics had been furnished the latter gentleman upon which to discant at Hastings. He referred, for instance, to Mr. Buchanan’s announcement that he would work in harmony with Mr. Ormond as a statement in which little confidence could be placed from past experience. Mr. Sutton said it was absurd to suppose that a candidate who condemned every act of the Ministry, would, if elected, eat his words in the House, and side with the Government to carry those measures out. If abolition had been mischievous, if the County Act was bad, if the new institutions would bring evil in their train, how was it consistent, asked Mr. Sutton, to support the Ministry, or the party who had brought these things about? In reference to legislation bearing upon native privileges and lands, Mr. Sutton believed that reform was highly necessary, and that that reform should be in the direction of placing all questions between Maoris and Europeans on a footing of fairness as between man and man. As the law stood at present, a native could bring a wivolous [frivolous] action against a European, and mould [would] not be liable for costs, though he fright [might] be wealthy in the possession of land. Mr. Sutton remarked it had been said of him that if he were returned he would be a congenial colleague of Mr. Ormond to legalise shaky titles to lands brought from the natives. He denied that he wanted to do anything of the sort; he did not know of any shaky titles that required to be legalised by Act of the General Assembly, certainly his own did not, he said, as the ablest lawyers had failed in the Supreme Court to find one of them shaky. Referring to Mr. Buchanan’s statement that the House of Representatives would not be bothered with Hawke’s Bay land squabbles, Mr. Sutton said it was noteworthy that Mr. Buchanan’s staunchest supporter was about the only man in the house who had brought them up for discussion. That supporter has shown himself the congenial colleague of a prominent settler and a member of the Upper House, who, it was reported, had said five years ago, that he would “make Hawke’s Bay land transactions stink in the nostrils of New Zealand.” Mr. Sutton said everyone knew how that promise had been kept. In reference to his own services in the Provincial Council, Mr. Sutton said that he was first returned in 1867, when he was second on the list in a field of ten candidates, the late Sir Donald McLean being first. The second time he was second on the list of a field of nine. The third time he was elected unopposed. He thought that that showed he had gained the confidence of his constituency, and had not abused the trust that had been reposed in him. In contrast to this, Mr. Buchanan had sat in the Council for three different constituencies, and had been beaten in three contests.

The recent decision given by the Resident Magistrate, in the matter of the petitions against the Waipukurau and Clive elections left some of the important questions at issue in a very unsettled position. These questions, it may be, were not brought before his Worship upon which to decide the legality or illegality of the elections appealed against, but it does appear a very great pity that those affecting them were not so far set at rest as to preclude further misinterpretation of the law. In the course of a short time the election must be held for the representation of the Waipukurau riding in the Waipawa Council, and for aught we can see, the same dissatisfaction must ensue as to the voting powers of the majority of the electors. The Resident Magistrate, for instance, embodied in his decision the opinion that plural voting was allowable by the Act, and that votes were cumulative as provided by the provincial Highways Act. There would be no fault to find with this if the Road Boards of the several districts within a county had carried out the whole of their functions. It is, however, notorious that, in the greater number of the districts, they have not done so, and having had no assessment lists from which a roll could be compiled for the late county elections, the returning officers were placed in a very difficult position. The difficulty of their position may be to some extent estimated from the fact that three different methods of conducting the elections were adopted in three separate ridings. Each of the Returning Officers believed his reading of the Act the correct one, and we maintain it was most unfortunate that the Waipukurau election was declared void on grounds which do not in the least trench on those upon which a decision was most desired. Our morning contemporary, alluding to this subject in Monday’s issue, refers to the perplexing aspect of the question in connection with the forthcoming election at Waipukurau. The only way out of the difficulty that the Herald can see is to postpone the election till a County roll has been made out by order of the Governor under the powers granted him by clause 209. But this suggestion cannot be acted upon, even supposing – which we do not – that it would be desirable to make use of that clause. As the law stands at present the county roll is prepared by direction of the Council after that Council has passed a resolution bringing the whole of the Counties Act into force. If the Act is only adopted in its restricted form no county roll can be compiled, nor indeed is one wanted. The Waipawa Council has not yet decided one way or the other as to the adoption of the Act, neither can it do so until all the ridings are represented at the Board. The Waipukurau election having been declared null and void its representative, Mr. Johnston, is unseated, and until a fresh election takes place no decision can be arrived at with respect to the adoption or otherwise of the Act. It is therefore of considerable importance that no unnecessary delay should occur before the vacant seat is once more filled. In what manner the new election will be conducted remains to be seen. This much, however, appears tolerably clear from his Worship’s decision in the Clive election case, – a roll compiled from the road districts’ assessment lists must be prepared by some one, and the names of voters thereon properly numbered; that Road Boards failing to furnish assessment lists to the Returning Officer in time for the compilation of a roll practically disfranchise the districts over which they preside.

We call the attention of Chairman of Road Boards to a notification issued by the Chairman of the County Council of Hawke’s Bay, and which appears in our advertising columns. The notification, however, is very incomplete, as it does not mention that the returns called for must be sent in to the Chairman of the County Council on or before January 31. There are only two days now in which to comply with the Act, in order that the Road Boards may receive their several subsidies. The clause relating to this matter is the 32nd of the Financial Arrangements Act, and runs as follows: – “On or before the thirty-first day of January next, and on or before the first day of May in every year thereafter the Council or Board of every county, borough, road district, or river district respectively, shall transmit to the Colonial Treasurer a true and detailed account, verified by the solemn declaration of the Mayor or Chairman of such Council or Board as the case may be, setting forth – (1) The total amount of all the rateable property within the county, borough, road district, or river district, as the case may be, upon which the rates have been, or might have been, levied during the year ending on the thirty-first day of March then previous. (2) The total amount of all general rates actually received by such Council or Board during the said year. And no subsidy shall become payable under this Act to any such Council or Board unless such account is sent to the Colonial Treasurer as herein provided.”

Mr. BUCHANAN’S meeting at Taradale on Tuesday was well attended. Mr. John Barry was voted to the chair, and, introducing the candidate, requested a fair hearing for all who addressed the electors present. Mr. Buchanan, who was received with some applause, then addressed the meeting. Most of his address being a mere reiteration of his previous speeches, we therefore, refrain from reporting his speech fully. There was one statement, however, made by Mr. Buchanan, which we are of opinion, should be made public, viz., Mr. Buchanan said that in the course of an interview he had had with Mr. Ormond, that gentleman had stated that during the present contest he would hold himself neutral. Mr. Buchanan’s remarks were listened to by the large audience most patiently. At the conclusion of his speech there were loud calls for Mr. Sheehan, who was seated in the body of the Hall. At first, this gentleman expressed his disinclination to address the meeting, but afterwards the calls being repeated, he addressed the meeting. As is usual with Mr. Sheehan, he delivered a most eloquent and fervid address, in the course of which he dilated on many topics. He dwelt particularly on the question of the honorarium and said that he disagreed with Mr. Buchanan on this point, and shewed that it was to the advantage of the electors if they desired to be represented by intelligence and worth, instead of by wealth, that it was to their own interest that members should receive compensation for loss of time, and he conclusively proved “the laborer to be worthy of his hire.” Mr Bowes then proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Buchanan for his address, which was seconded by Mr. Hugh Campbell, who replied to Mr. Sheehan’s remarks, when attacking Mr. Sutton. Mr. Campbell’s remarks were received with frequent manifestations of approval. The vote of thanks to Mr. Buchanan was carried without dissent, and the meeting broke up at a late hour with a vote of thanks to the Chairman.

THERE are again five candidates for the vacant seat for Napier, Mr. Colenso having announced his intention to go to the poll. Mr. Colenso stands upon a distinct platform to the other candidates. He presents himself as a townsman, in distinction to the large land owners, a class that he justly considers is already sufficiently represented. If Mr. Colenso possessed no other qualification, the mere fact that he claims to be an out-and-out Napier man should entitle him to considerable support. Mr. Colenso is not only an out-and-out townsman, but he is looked upon as part and parcel of Napier, quite as much so as the Shakespeare-road or the town pump. Few local men have been more abused, and we ourselves, in the past, have often had to take a very opposite view to that which he held. Bur Mr. Colenso likes fighting, and he fights fair, and though we do not think he stands the smallest chance of ever representing Napier, we are rather glad he has announced himself as a candidate.

We understand that no less than three horses have been drowned during the month of January when being swum across from Spit to Spit, Port Ahuriri. On Tuesday a valuable horse, the property of Mr. Tylee, was drowned, and on Wednesday another animal had a narrow escape from a similar fate. There appears to be no question that one effect of the harbour works, so far as they have proceeded, has been to greatly increase the current at ebb-tide; and there is little doubt that the velocity of the stream will continue to increase as the works progress. Unless, indeed, this effect is obtained, the harbour improvements must result in failure; the object of the works is to increase the current so as to produce a scour. It is obvious that, when this object has been secured, it will be impossible to swim an animal across the entrance, except at slack water. In the matter of the bridge the settlers have been grossly deceived. It was almost a pledge given by the late Sir Donald McLean at the last general elections that a sum of money should be placed on the estimates for this most necessary work. We have not the slightest doubt in our own mind, that the votes of the northern settlers were mainly given to Sir Donald and Captain Russell under the impression that their return to the General Assembly would secure the construction of the Spit bridge. Sir Donald’s illness precluded him from taking any part in Parliamentary business towards the close of the session, and before the estimates were brought down Captain Russell was well on his way to England. This is how this constituency has been served in the past, and that is why there was no attempt made last session to get the bridge at the Spit included amongst the public works to be undertaken in this part of the colony. Why the bridge was not made a portion of the Harbor improvement works we are at a loss to conceive. It surely was short-sighted policy on the part of the Harbor Board that this omission was allowed to occur. The bridge would have added little to the total cost of the works, and would have been a very reproductive addition to them. It is just possible that, if the contract had included the bridge, the cost of the whole works would have not been at all increased. We are certain of this, that the cost, in labor and in time, in ferrying all the stone and rubble for the sea wall on western Spit, will be little less to the contractors than what they could have built a bridge for. We are surprised that this question has not before this engaged the attention of the Board.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

MR. BUCHANAN’S ADDRESS.
SIR. – There can I think be scarcely a doubt in the minds of any one who heard Mr. Buchanan on Friday evening, that  his appearance of support to the present Ministry is a very shallow and flimsy covering. The only reason Mr. Buchanan gave was that he had supported Mr. Stafford in 1869, and several of the present Ministry had been supporters of him as well. It will be remembered that in the Stafford Ministry at that time, were none of the members of the present Government, how then can we be expected to take such an explanation as satisfactory? Mr. Buchanan tells us that the Abolition Bill is a most pernicious measure, and the Counties Act is fraught with innumerable evils; he does not so far as I can learn approve of any of the measures passed last session. The action of the Government in reducing expenses is ridiculed, and in fact all its public acts are held to be unsatisfactory.
Mr. Stafford has long been a supporter of Abolition of Provinces, and has advocated that cause for many years; he at all events has been consistent  in his action.
The changes that have taken place have brought into power men who have been in the past supporters of the man, who above all others, has held that Provinces should be abolished, while Mr. Buchanan holds different opinions.
The mask is too transparent, and I think long before the polling takes place, Mr. Buchanan will regret having attempted such an imposition.
It is not usual for Mr. Buchanan to blow hot and cold with the same breath, and it will be found that if it was unlikely

10   THE WEEKLY MERCURY.

that he would be returned had he come out in his usual style, it is much more unlikely that the electors will be misled by the miserable explanation he has given for nominally supporting the Ministry. – I am, &c.,
NAPIER.
January 29, 1877.

CATHOLICS AND THE ELECTION.
SIR, – Your correspondent, “Half-Circle,” goes far out of his way, and considerably out of his depth, to lecture the Catholics of Napier upon their ignorance of the education question. Though it is not to a person like your correspondent (who seems to have a scarcely sufficient knowledge of a subject of the dearest importance to Catholics) that they would go for advice in election matters; yet had “Half-Circle’s” letter contained one sagacious remark, Catholics might have been disposed to accept it in a thankful spirit, and to pardon the almost offensive character of his letter. I was in England and remember well the whole course of the education controversies since the memorable introduction by Mr. Robert Lowe of “payment by results” until the Act of Parliament passed in 1875, which amended Mr. Foster’s Act in a manner very satisfactory to the religious denominations. I may say that, in my judgment, Mr. Buchanan’s publicly expressed opinion on education is more accurate than the superficial estimate given by your correspondent. Neither Catholics nor the Established Church of England were ever satisfied with such legislation, but the former, under it, receive some support to  their schools, and their priests and laymen sit upon those local School Boards referred to by “Half Circle,” to protect the Catholic interests.  Not so, however, in Victoria, where, as your correspondent should know, Catholics are forbidden to have part or parcel in the state system of education, and where that system is distinctly and avowedly antagonistic to Catholicism. What then do your readers think of “Half Circle’s” remark that the English and Victorian systems are alike to Catholics? The summary of the whole matter is that Mr. Buchanan, alone of all the candidates has pledged his opposition to the introduction of the Victoria system into New Zealand, and in that respect is the only candidate who has committed himself to anything definite, or who has done anything to command the Catholic vote, I still think he should have. – I am, &c.,
A  CATHOLIC.
January 31, 1877.

WHAT ABOUT MESSRS. TIFFEN AND RHODES?
SIR, – We have now heard on the platform a full expression of the political opinions of Messrs. Sutton and Buchanan, but the other candidates Messrs. Rhodes and Tiffen have not yet intimated their intention to take a similar course. Can they expect the people to vote for them while they thus keep their views from the public view? It is all very well to say that we shall hear them on the hustings, but the working men cannot afford to lose the best part of the day in listening to their views there, and they may depend on it, that unless they give the electors a full opportunity of questioning them on their political views, they may save themselves the trouble and expense of contesting the election. Personally, I believe that Mr. Rhodes is the best man to place in the House, but I am not going to vote in the dark; and unless he gives us an expression of his views at a time suitable for us hearing him, I in common with a large number of other voters will come to the conclusion that he is afraid of meeting the electors in a fair and open manner, and will not give him my vote. –
I am, &c.,
WORKING MAN.

ELECTION PROMISES.
SIR, – It appears to me that the sine qua non for a candidate to represent the Napier constituency is his opinion or promises on the education question. As far as I can see into the matter, Sutton is the only man that has given an opinion on what education ought to be, re meeting at Petane. The meeting at Taradale, no doubt, was very self-satisfactory to Mr. Buchanan, seeing that he had a majority of the people supporting his crocodile promises. I would ask the electors of Taradale to look up Mr. Buchanan’s antecedents, re education. Turn up Council papers 1873, when a motion was brought forward in the Provincial Council on the subject of subsidies to outlying district schools. What was Mr. Buchanan’s  opinions then? The only thing that I am astonished at is, that Mr. Buchanan should have the conscience to speak in the way he did at Taradale, knowing full well that he, at the time had quite different ideas in his head. Electors, facts are stubborn things, and I, as one elector of the district, emphatically beg of you all to reconsider Mr. Buchanan’s promises on education. Therefore, I say vote for Mr. Sutton, who promises you a liberal support to education of whatever denomination, such as we have had in Hawke’s Bay for the last twelve years. –  I am, &c.,
DENOMINATIONAL.

RESIDENT MAGISTRATE’S COURT
FRIDAY, JANUARY 26.
(Before Richmond  Beetham, Esq., R.M.)

DRUNKENNESS
William Mac contributed 20s to the revenue of the country as a peace offering to the powers that be for having exceeded the bounds of sobriety.
William Thompson was fined 5s or in default 24 hours imprisonment: and John Hempenstall was fined 20s with the alternative of 48 hours.
Both these last-named gentlemen accepted the alternative.

VAGRANCY.
Another charge against Hempenstall of having no lawful visible means of support was dismissed.

BREACH MUNICIPAL BYE LAWS.
Police v. George Hobbs. – This case was further adjourned until Monday next.

DEFAULTING RATEPAYERS.
Thirty summonses had been issued, and of this number, in twenty-four cases the defendants had hurried up and paid their rates before the hour for appearing (with of course the additional 5s court fees in each case). Of the remaining half-dozen, two of the defaulters had left the district, and in the other four the summonses had not been served, so the hearing was adjourned.

CIVIL CASES.
H. Williams v. C. Hansen. – Claim  £3 15, goods supplied. Judgment (by default) for amount claimed, and costs 9s.
Same v. Johansen. – Claim £4 17s 6d, goods. Judgment for plaintiff, with costs 9s.
Same v. Hebden. – Claim £18 4s 3d. Judgment confessed.
Topping v. Allen. – Claim £2 16s 2d.  Adjourned until 30th January.
Caldwell v. McIntyre (Clive) – Claim £79 5s, for two years’ wages (less one week.) This case occupied the Court for a considerable time, and resulted in a judgment for plaintiff for £20.
A number of other civil cases had been settled out of Court.

JUDGMENT SUMMONS.
Brogden and Son v. J.H. Neal. – On a judgment of this Court, dated 8th February, 1876, for £26 9s, balance of passage money, &c. – Defendant was ordered to pay 10s per week, commencing on 3rd February; in default of any single payment, imprisonment for two months.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27.

ALLEGED LUNACY.
John McKenzie, who had been remanded for medical examination, was brought before the Court and discharged from custody, professional certificates of his sanity having been furnished to the Court by the examining medical practitioners.

BREACH OF MUNICIPAL BYE LAWS.
William Lucas, a cabdriver, pleaded guilty to an information charging him with “remaining away from his horses so as not to be able to have full control over them.” He was fined 5s, with 6s 6d costs.

ALLEGED FALSE PRETENCES.
Mary Ann McDonald, a girl of apparently about nineteen, was brought up in custody on the information of Eldred Beck, storekeeper of Clive, charging her with “obtaining from him, by certain false pretences, goods to the value of £1 3s, with intent to cheat and defraud him of the same.” She was remanded until Monday next.

MONDAY, JANAURY [JANUARY] 29.

DRUNKENNESS.
James Griffen charged with this offence was fined 10s, or 24 hours imprisonment.
William Mac was fined 10s.

ILLEGALLY ON PREMISES.
John McKenzie, charged with having been illegally on Mr. Duncan’s premises yesterday morning, was discharged, the Inspector of Police stating that he would try and get him into the Hospital.

BREACH OF MUNICIPAL BYE-LAWS.
George Hobbs was fined 20s, and costs 11s 6d. The case was heard ex parte.

ASSAULT.
Thomas v. Saunders. – An information for assault and battery was permitted to be withdrawn.

FALSE  PRETENCES.
Mary A. McDonald , on remand, charged with obtaining goods, value £1 3s, from Mr. Beck, storekeeper, of Clive, by false pretences, was convicted and sentenced to two months imprisonment with hard labour.

TUESDAY JANUARY 30.

DRUNKENNESS.
William Carter, for this offence, was fined and paid 5s.

RUFFIANISM. – YANKEE HARRY AGAIN. – ASSAULTS
Henry Black, better known as “Yankee Harry,” for an unprovoked assault on Mr. Ford of the Criterion Hotel, was sentenced to two months imprisonment with hard labour; and for assaulting a constable in the execution of his duty was awarded a further period of two months accumulative imprisonment; and on a third charge, under the Vagrant Act, of “using threatening and obscene language in Emerson-Street within the hearing of persons passing therein,” was ordered to pay a fine of £10, or in default three months imprisonment with hard labour, also accumulative, making  (as defendant was unable to pay the fine) a total of seven months out of harm’s way. Defendant is stated to have promised somebody “something” when he comes out.

CIVIL CASES.
Sixteen debt summonses had been issued for hearing to-day, but of this number half had been settled out of Court, five of the claims (as under) were heard and adjudicated upon, and adjournments for various reasons granted in the others.
Topping v. Allen. – Claim £2s 16 2d for groceries. Judgment for £2 11s 2d,  and costs 9s.
Dykes v. Hicks. –  Claim £1 10s for 15 loads of earth at 2s. No appearance of defendant. Judgment (by default )  for amount of claim and costs 9s.
Boylan’s Trustees v. Ryan. – Claim £1 10s 9d, goods supplied. Judgment for plaintiffs, with 9s costs.
Same v. Lory. – Claim  £4 14s, goods sold and delivered. Defendant did not appear. Judgment  (by default)  for amount claimed, and costs 9s,
Johnson v. James Chase.  – Claim for timber supplied of £23 9s 8d. Defendant failed to appear. Judgment was given (by default) for plaintiff for £18 7s 8d½d, and costs £2 12s, including solicitor’s fee of 21s.
Mr. Sainsbury conducted plaintiffs’ cases in the three last mentioned suits.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31.

DRUNKENNESS.
Peter McMillan (a first offence), was fined 5s, or 24 hours imprisonment.
William Carter was also brought before the Court charged with drunkenness. This being a second offence, he was fined 10s, or 24 hours imprisonment.
William Pederson was charged with a similar offence, being his first appearance he was fined 5s, or 24 hours.
In all cases the fine was paid.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1.
(Before T.K. Newton, Esq., J.P.)

DRUNKENNESS.
Frederick Harding, for the above offence, was fined 5s, this being his first appearance in this place of business.
Matthew Pederson, for the above, was also ordered to forfeit the sum of 5s.
This is this gentleman’s second appearance for the same charge.
The fine was paid in each of these cases.

COURT OF PETTY SESSIONS
WAIPAWA.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 25.
(Before Colonel Hennick, J.P., (Chairman) J. M. Stokes, R. Harding, and  B. E. Friberg, Esq., J.P.s.)

BREACH OF LICENSING ACT.
Arthur Poyzer, of Hampden, licensed  vitualler [victualler], admitted a charge of having sold alcoholic liquors on the 27th December last, in a booth on the race course at Hampden without having previously obtained  the usual necessary permission from the  Licensing  Commissioners, pursuant to the Statute, and without having paid the usual fee. The Bench inflicted the lowest penalty of £5 and costs with a caution for the future.

CIVIL CASES.
Rathbone v. Philip. – A claim for  £4 10s 2d was admitted by telegram, and a proof of the debt, judgment was given for the amount, and 15s cost.
Pritchard and Olley v. Kilburn. – Judgment was given in June last for £14 11s for immediate payment. The defendant had not paid any portion of the claim, and a judgment summons was issued at the application of the Plaintiffs, defendant appearing thereto. The defendant not showing very good cause for unpayment, he was committed to Napier Gaol for one month.
Kilburn v. Olley – The defendant had paid £6, the price of a horse purchased by him of the plaintiff, as a set-off against the judgment obtained in June last, but as the plaintiff had been committed under the judgment summons previously heard he was nonsuited.
Bak v. Jacobsen. – The defendant had injured a cow belonging to the plaintiff, stating that the animal had damaged his garden, and that he had only driven it away. Judgment for £2 , and costs 13s.
Five other cases were arranged out of Court.

[…]

NATIVE MATTERS ON THE EAST COAST.
FROM the Coast we (P.B. Herald, Jan. 30) learn that the state of the natives is, on the whole very satisfactory, with the exception of a small disaffected section at Waiapu who, led by a few turbulent spirits in that locality, are pursuing a rather obstructive course. The natives everywhere express their sorrow for the death of Sir Donald McLean, and their great desire to proceed to Napier to “tangi” over his remains, and it is probable that a few of the leading men of the tribe will carry out their intentions in this respect. The road over the Kautuku or East Cape hill is now completed, it was constructed solely by the natives who deserve great credit for their enterprise. With the view of defraying the expenses of this undertaking, they have been collecting subscriptions all along the East Coast, as far as Hawke’s Bay, and they likewise imposed a toll of 1s per head on all travellers who made use of it. The Government, however, agreed to pay a lump sum of £50, on the condition that no further toll charges should be levied on the public, and the money was handed to them a day or two ago. Some of the grades are described as being still very steep, but it is a vast improvement on the old track, which was nearly impassable in the winter. While Captain Porter was at Kawakawa a few days since, a large runanga was held to discuss the question of surveying the Pukemaru and Tatutohora blocks situated in Hicks Bay and on which Government money had been paid. After considerable opposition on the part of the Waiapu clique above alluded to they consented to allow these pieces of land to be surveyed and put through the Court, a most important concession as the natives have hitherto been much oppesed [opposed] to allowing lands to the North of the Waiapu River to be dealt with by the Native Lands Court.

Lord Chancellor Campbell, a few days before his death, met a barrister and remarked: “Why, Mr.___, you are getting as fat as a porpoise.” “Fit company, my lord, for the great seal,” was the ready repartee.

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   11

[…]

12   THE WEEKLY MERCURY.

[…]

UNSPOKEN SPEECHES.

Said the people – “A vacant chair
“Demands somebody there;
“We don’t care a bit
“Who sits in it,
“So long as he speaks us fair.”

Said fiery John Buchanan –
“If you want a two-legged cannon
“On the House’s floor
“To blaze and roar –
“Just vote for John Buchanan”.

Tiffen was not so proud: –
Said he “I can’t speak loud,
“Nor long, nor well,
“But the Speaker’s bell
“Will fetch me with the crowd.”

Said Rhodes – “I’d like to go;
“This life is very slow;
“If a man were sent
“To Parliament
“He could ‘do the grand,’ you know!”

“And I really do aspire
“To be more than a mere Esquire,
“I’ve been thirty four years
“In this vale of tears
“And it’s time I moved up higher.”

Said Sutton – “I’ll go, my sheep
“Leave me nothing to do but sleep,
“And beyond a doubt
“I’m getting too stout.”
(This made Lord Henry weep.)

Said Wilson – “Well, you see,
“I’d sooner by far be free;
“I suppose I must go
“If you say so,
“There, there, don’t bother me!”

Said the people’s Billy – “Of course
“I shall be the winning horse;
“In the candidate line
“I always shine,
“It’s quite my tour de force!”

(Some went to the Poll,
And some withdrew in time,
But who got in, and who did not,
Is matter for further rhyme.)

TAMUMU.
[FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.]
January 25.
On Tuesday last the annual distribution of prizes to the children attending Tamumu school took place. There were six books presented by Mr. Colenso at the last examination on the 22nd December, and five books (value one pound), presented by Mr. Douglas, of Havelock, for prizes. At the special request of the teacher, Mr. Stewart, the Rev. R. Fraser, of Waipukurau kindly consented to distribute the prizes. Mr. Fraser examined the children in their several classes, and was highly pleased with their proficiency and considering their youth, he specially referred to the marked progress made in writing and arithmetic. In the senior classes the principal prizes were awarded to William Logan and Kenneth MacKenzie. In the junior classes, comparative prizes were awarded to all, a consideration that gave excessive pleasure to the little ones. The parents of the children were in attendance and took great interest in the proceedings.
At the conclusion, Mr Fraser briefly addressed the children and urged on them the necessity of diligence in their studies. He said youth was the time for improvement, and for preparing themselves to be useful in their generation to others as well as themselves. He dwelt forcibly on the necessity of close application to their studies, and urged in eloquent terms to make the best use of their time at school, as they would soon have to take their places in the battle of the world. In response to Mr Stewart’s invitation, three hearty cheers were given for Mr Fraser, who seems to have made himself popular with the children. The school was then dismissed.
There was one very amusing incident during the examination I cannot help relating. A junior class, in the second reading book, were being put through their spelling by Mr Fraser. He put a word of unusual length to a little boy, who is not quite six years of age. The boy, with a very solemn countenance, replied, “I have not come to a word like that yet.”
We had a terrific gale of wind here yesterday; several willow trees were thrown down, and the oat crop has suffered terribly.

A Preston person wants to know why a soldier is usually spoken of as a son of Mars, when it is very well known that Mars hasn’t any sun.

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   13

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

WHO IS THE BEST MAN?
SIR, – The letter of “Fair Play” in your issue of yesterday shows that the writer (whoever he may be) is either wholly ignorant of the past history of the colony or the men whom he attempts to critizise; or, being blinded by political partisanship has wilfully perverted facts in order to support Mr. Sutton, whose past career he so greatly admires. His remarks concerning Mr. Tiffen and Mr. Rhodes, I shall not reply to, with the exception of stating this, with respect to the latter gentleman: he is an old and respected colonist, a man who has worked his way up from the lowest rung in the ladder, and, although he may not possess those grand oratorical abilities which “Fair Play” attributes to Mr. Sutton, he has always maintained a character for energy, and thorough independence. Those who watched his career as representative for Clive in the Provincial Council will give him credit for ever carefully watching over and guarding the interests of his constituency, far more than Mr. Sutton ever did for those he professed to represent. And I may say the same remarks are also applicable to Mr. Buchanan.
“Fair Play” asks with almost childlike simplicity “What real political capacity has Mr. Buchanan ever exhibited?” Is “Fair Play” aware that, owing to the “ring” which was in existence during the time Mr. Buchanan held a seat in the Provincial Council, that it was impossible for any independent man to carry any measure for the benefit of the people who were not supporters of the “ring.” Let “Fair Play” look at the records of the Provincial Council and there he will see how hard Mr. Buchanan fought on the side of the people, and tried to wrest for them many privileges. On the other hand, who can forget the opposition shown by Mr. Sutton to the making of even the Hyderabad road, he being in dread lest if this road were then made that the traffic would be diverted from the Shakespeare road. And yet this is the gentleman whom we are told “upon whose qualifications it is unnecessary to enlarge.” “Fair Play” again shows his ignorance by asking, “Is there no spot on Donald Reid’s coat?” He first blames Mr Buchanan for promising to support Ministers, and then asks such a question. Has “Fair Play” read the Hansard of the last and previous sessions? Why, Sir, at the commencement of last session Mr Donald Reid was not only a Separationist but a most rabid Oppositionist! and he only changed his views when he had dangled before him, by Major Atkinson, the position which he at present occupies as Minister of Lands.
One word more with regard to “Fair Play’s” letter and I am done with him. He asks, “Why is Mr Sheehan so anxious to defeat Mr Sutton?” And then he goes on to remark, that should Mr Sutton be returned, Mr Sheehan’s statements in the House will have “appropriate answers.” Well, we had a specimen on Monday evening of how Mr Sutton would figure in the House when opposed to Mr Sheehan. I do not think any elector left the Hall (with the exception perhaps of “Fair Play”) – impressed with the idea that Mr Sutton would even be able to defend his own “little cases” if opposed by Mr Sheehan.
And, Sir, now I wish to make a few remarks with respect to Mr Sutton’s views on the economy of the present Ministry. He referred, in glowing terms, to the manner in which the present Government were curtailing the expenses of the colony. Now, Sir, what have they done? They have copied Mr Stafford’s policy of 1865, when he promised to reduce Government expenditure by £240,000. He discharged the only military force in the colony. And what was the result? The time came very shortly afterwards when the natives fought to recover possession of their lands. They found us unprepared. The cheeseparing policy found its victims at Ngatu-o-te-Manu and also on the East Coast. Poor Von Tempsky, Buck, and Hastings were victims to it. I do not wish to prophecy evil, but the results of such a policy ought to be remembered as a warning.
If this Government were in earnest as regards economy, we should see some of that great overpaid army of officials who are preying on the vitals of the country, being reduced, instead of being added to, and we might then have faith in the professions of those whom Mr Sutton holds up to such high admiration. Mr Sutton is no doubt a shrewd man, but he will never do honor to Napier as her representative, He will become an easy tool for Ministers – do possibly their dirty work in the House, as he did in the Provincial Council, – for the Provincial Executive. What we want is a man who can stand up and advocate boldly the interests of the district – who has no ends of his own to serve – one who will command by his ability and influence the respect of the other members of the House. Mr Buchanan possesses these qualifications, and I hope my fellow-electors will use every effort to place him in such a position that his great talents may be used for their benefit. – I am, &c.
ARGUS.
Napier, January 25, 1876.

MR. TIFFEN’S ADDRESS.
SIR, – Everybody has now read Mr. Tiffen’s address, second edition, carefully revised and corrected by the author, and compiled from the experience of the other candidates. Let me say a few words about it. Have the questions put and answered in the address really been asked of Mr. Tiffen? I don’t think so. I don’t think any elector would take the trouble to ask questions of a candidate who doesn’t stand the shadow of a show of getting into the House. Never mind; the inane questions have appended to them equally inane answers. Now, as an elector, I am going to ask a few questions of Mr. Tiffen, which I should like answered through the columns of the press, or at a public meeting, whichever is the cheapest to the candidate.
1.   As you have intruded your private business upon the people, may I ask whether you sold the Homewood estate to confer a public good, or reap a personal and golden harvest?
2.   Did not you refuse ,just before the hard times, something  like £30,000 for the Homewood run, and that when you cut it up for the good of the colony you netted about three times that amount? What then is the use of talking such bunkum as setting an example to the rest of the runholders. You would not have cut up the estate unless it paid you to do it. Why don’t you cut up Greenmeadows? Because the time is not ripe; that is about the correct answer.
3.   Was it to help the small farmer , or to further prop up the large land owner, that you assisted to burke the Counties Act, by which your rich friends have escaped County taxation, and the small holders in the Road Board districts have to pay the highway rates?
4.   How much did you net by the new Taradale road?
5.   How much will you subscribe towards the church for Mr. Robinson?
Answers will oblige. – I am ,&c.,
R.S.V.P.
Taradale, January 25 , 1877

CHURCH TROUBLES AT HASTINGS.
SIR, – If I cannot give you a very succinct account of our little squabble, I can at least furnish your readers with sufficient  information to let them know that we too, at Hastings, can have our “church trouble.” The Rev. W. Marshall, who, since his ordination, has done so much for the cause of religion in the country districts of Clive, Havelock, and Hastings, and to whose exertions we are largely indebted for the possession of places of worship at the two former townships, recently set on foot a subscription for the erection of a church at Hastings. The ground, it was understood, was already purchased and set apart for a church. The other day, a meeting was held, and everything arranged to the complete satisfaction of Mr. Marshall, and a considerable number of the subscribers who were present. Mr. J. N. Williams, however, was absent. On his return, it was reported that, things not being to his liking, he purposed to overturn the action of the meeting. Now, when a gentleman whose connection with Church dignataries [dignitaries] is of a most intimate relation, and whose influence in the district must go unchallenged, sets to work to have matters put to his way of thinking, people’s backs are apt to get up. As a matter of fact, the backs of the people did get up, as was shown at the meeting on Wednesday. Mr. Marshall spoke up like a brave Christian gentleman as he is, and took the people’s side. A church was wanted, and a church the people should have if he could get it for them. But there were difficulties in the way. The ground had to be approved of by the church dignitaries; Synodical rules had to be regarded; the aegis of the Church must surround the scheme, and, in fact, the great Williams’ family must be the head and front, and top and bottom of the whole plan. Well, Sir, the people know what that means – it means that the people must find the money, and the Church, as represented by its great authorities, shall spend it. The consequence was Mr Vickers came to the rescue, and presented a piece of ground for the church.
It is whispered that the church scheme, so far as the Church authorities were concerned, embraced the intention of putting the Rev. Mr Townsend in the pulpit, when he leaves Napier in March, and of throwing over Mr Marshall, who has been too favourable to the Rev. Mr Robinson. – I am, &c.,
HASTINGS.
January 25, 1877.

WHO IS THE BEST MAN?
SIR, – A letter appears in yesterday’s paper which attacks in a furious manner the statements of “Fair Play.” Of all the productions I have ever perused I can certainly award it the palm for maudlin argument and stupid and reckless assertion. All that it can say in reference to Mr. Sutton is that he did not support a vote for the Hyderabad Road, (doubtless for many good reasons,) and in the vicinity of which “Argus” himself most probably resides.
In regard to Mr. Sutton’s appearance on the platform, as compared with Mr. Sheehan’s, it must be recollected that Mr Sheehan followed Mr. Sutton; but I have no doubt that, if their positions were reversed, Mr. Sutton’s reply to Mr. Sheehan would have been infinitely more damaging and more permanent in its effect than the witty and sparkling philippic of the latter gentleman, which, although it amused the audience, no one of Mr. Buchanan’s most cordial supporters has attempted to assert has had the slightest effect in influencing the election.
‘Argus” actually admits that Mr. Sutton has one qualification – viz., that of shrewdness.  We cannot congratulate “Argus” on possessing the same faculty; if so, he would not have injured Mr. Buchanan’s chance of election by publishing such a feeble reply to the powerful letter signed “Fair Play.” In his case Mr Buchanan may well say, “Save me from my friends.”
“Argus’s” statement that Mr Sutton will do the dirty work of the Ministry in the House, as he did in the Provincial Council, is one of the assertions to which I refer as being totally unsupported by fact. No one who has watched Mr Sutton’s career can have any other  opinion than that his actions have always been thoroughly independent. His advocacy of the desirability of the counties adopting the full powers under the Act, in the face of Mr Ormond’s opinion to the contrary, is of itself an answer to this unwarranted attack, – I am, &c.,
JACOBUS.
Napier, January 27, 1872.

MR. BUCHANAN’S ADDRESS.
SIR, – Lest Mr Buchanan’s statements should go unchallenged, and leave a false impression on the minds of those of the electors whose residence here has been of short duration, I would ask space for a few observations on his address.
Mr Buchanan announced himself as a provincialist; but, regarding abolition as an accomplished fact, he would give his assistance to the Ministry in their effort to make the new institutions work. These institutions, said Mr Buchanan, would bring a train of evils with them, one of which was apparently the rating powers conferred on local bodies by the Counties Act.
Now, Sir, I hold that if we have reason to be thankful to the Legislature for one measure more than another in the Acts relating to the new institutions, it is for that which placed in the hands of the people, through the County Council, the power to rate the large land owners in the same way as the small farmer is taxed by the Road Board. This much is certain, that, in Hawke’s Bay, very many of the highway districts are composed of nothing but large runs, the owners of which, being the sole ratepayers in the event of rates being levied, take precious good care not to levy a rate. Those districts then are perfectly free from burdens which fall upon the small holder. The Counties Act provides for this injustice, and gives power to the Council to impose rates in those districts that neglect to tax themselves. This is the only possible way of reaching the large land monopolist . It is hopeless to expect the General Assembly will ever impose a land and property tax. There are too many large land owners in either House for any such anticipation to be realised. Mr. Buchanan raised a laugh in his address, in reference to the County Council of Hokianga, which is composed of two Europeans, two half-castes and three Maoris. That County is almost exclusively inhabited by Maoris and half-castes, and scarcely an acre of land is owned by Europeans. The few colonists there are almost solely Pakeha-Maoris who have been living there for the past thirty years, and no enquiry need to be made into the reasons that induced them to settle there under the protection of the natives.
This leads me to state that one of my chief objections to Mr. Buchanan is that he is given to an unfair method of illustrating his views on political matters. He had no right to create a laugh at the expense of the Counties Act by a reference to a County with the circumstances of which perhaps not three people in the Hall were acquainted. The same observation applies to Mr. Buchanan’s remarks on the Heretaunga purchase. He, with strange forgetfulness of the feeling in Hawke’s Bay concerning repudiation, had the temerity to claim with pride the honor of having been the first man here to induce the Maoris to repudiate their leases, made with the “Twelve Apostles,” in order that his friend Mr. James Stuart might mop up the whole of the plains for himself! With such a reputation it is to be wondered at that Mr. Buchanan comes out now under the patronage of Mr. John Sheehan? A fellow feeling makes men wondrous kind.
Mr. Buchanan, in his claim to popularity, relies a good deal on his past efforts to induce the Government to buy up the Ahuriri Plains, and he is never weary of asserting that if his advice had been taken those plains would now have been the people’s. Mr. McLean (late Sir Donald), however, knew perfectly well that for the Government to attempt to negotiate for those lands at that time would have been useless, and would have led to hostilities. What was Mr. Buchanan’s reply? Why, sir, at a public meeting held in 1865, when Mr. Lee was in the chair, Mr. Buchanan made use of these words: – “ I am one of those who do not care much about the natives being embroiled with the Europeans”! But supposing the Government had risked hostilities, and acquired the plains, is it reasonable to suppose that they would have been more wisely dealt with than the Papakura and Hikutoto blocks – land nearer to Napier and more rich than the Heretaunga? How is it those blocks were all bought up by half-a-dozen people? If the Government had once got its paw on Heretaunga, that splendid plain would have been a gift to some favoured individual at 10s an acre. The province may thank its stars that the Government never had the power to manipulate the plains as it did the Crown lands.
This letter would be too long did I refer to other points in Mr. Buchanan’s address on this occasion, but with your permission, I may have something to say another time. – I am ,&c.,
HALF-CIRCLE.
Napier, January 27, 1877.

WHO  IS THE BEST MAN?
SIR, – The letter of your correspondent “Jacobus,” which appeared in your issue of Saturday, was a most feeble attempt to reply to my letter of the previous day. Unable to argue, he resorts to abuse – a weapon always employed by those unable to discuss a question fairly. “Jacobus” informs us that Mr. Sutton opposed the making of Hyderabad Road, “doubtless for many good reasons.” I only mentioned the matter because I am aware that the “reasons” were of a most selfish character on his part, being afraid that traffic would be diverted from his own place of business.
“Jacobus” would feign make us believe that Mr. Sutton, had he spoken after Mr. Sheehan, would have annihilated that gentleman. This statement is truly laughable. There was a resolution before the meeting, and Mr. Sutton could have spoken to it, and replied to Mr. Sheehan, but as we could all see he felt the task beyond him and slunk away. We have had specimens of Mr. Sutton’s oratorical abilities in the Provincial Council, and we are aware how he would shine in the General Assembly. If Captain Russell has been a failure, how much more so would Mr. Sutton be? “Jacobus” points evidently with pride to the fact that Mr. Sutton had the courage at Mr. Ormond’s dinner to express views in opposition to him with reference to the Counties Act. He must however remember Mr. Sutton was, or, intended to be a candidate for the County Council, and was also inflated with the idea that he would be also its Chairman. It was therefore a cheap, but ignorant way of attempting to curry favour with a few small holders. The opportunity chosen by him on that occasion of expressing his political sentiments was not a happy one,

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and I think showed that were he to peruse a little work on “etiquette” before attending political dinners and meetings it would be much to his advantage. Should he become our representative, I hope before he takes his seat, he will (for the credit of his constituents) make some such work his particular study.
Another of your correspondents under the signature of “Half Circle,” makes some very wild and rash statements. There is a great deal of what may be termed “special pleading”  in his letter showing how anxious the writer was to make his cause the better one. I have no desire to say for Mr. Buchanan that his political career is a spotless one, but there is no necessity for his opponents to falsify his statements, or contort facts. There are a number of people now in Napier who remember how Mr. Buchanan long before the Heretaunga fell into the hands of the “Apostles,” or before Mr. Buchanan had any connection with Mr. Stuart, tried to get up a small Farm Association of working men to occupy those lands. Had the Government of the day done its duty, Mr. Buchanan’s scheme would have been a success, and instead of seeing us sending money to Canterbury and Otago now to purchase cereals, we should have become exporters ourselves. But it is useless crying over “spilt milk.” The opportunity was lost and the time has passed by. Next time, however, “Half Circle” writes, I hope he will complete his “circle” by telling the whole, and not half the truth.
With respect to Mr. Sutton’s connection with Native lands, if Mr. Sutton is such a friend to the working classes, I would ask him why he has never attempted to cut up the large blocks he has had in his hands for the benefit of the Yeomanry class, instead of disposing of them at advanced prices to wealthy capitalists?  Few men in the colony have had a better chance of practically benefiting the yeomanry classes, and yet in no single instance am I aware did he make the attempt. Mr. Sutton’s friends are fond of talking about Mr. Buchanan’s opposition to our late and respected member for Napier. But let me ask, was Mr. Sutton always a supporter of Sir Donald when his own private interests were as he thought being interfered with? Who was so bitterly opposed to the late Sir Donald McLean in 1871 as Mr. Sutton? Who first opposed the Native Minister with respect to the Native Lands Frauds Prevention Act? Mr. Sutton. It was only when he found it was again to his interests to support the Native Minister that he whirled round again on his political pivot. Privately, there are few men for whom I have a greater respect for than Mr. Sutton; but, I believe, if elected, he would be “the round man in a square hole.”
In conclusion, permit me to ask who are the men who are acting as principal touters for Mr. Sutton? There are two gentlemen who make themselves particularly prominent. The first is a gentleman whom we all know is Mr. Sutton’s paid advocate and legal adviser. It is natural with him that he should do his best for such a good client; but still were he not so interested in the result of the contest, the electors might place greater faith in his ear wigging advocacy. The other is a gentleman highly respected, but from posters and advertisements we learn that he is “retiring from business,” about to leave the district, and in order to do so is selling off his “old remnants.” Now, what on earth does it matter to him who will or will not be our future representative? I hope the electors will be warned of these gentlemen, and pay no heed except to those who intend making Hawke’s Bay their home, and have no ulterior objects to serve. – I am, &c.,
ARGUS.
January 29, 1877.

HASTINGS CHURCH.
SIR, – I notice in this morning’s Herald a letter from Mr. J. N. Williams respecting church matters in Hastings – in which he calls in question the correctness of the report published in yesterday’s issue of that paper. I fail to see the difference between his statement and the said report. The facts remain the same; and facts are stubborn things to deal with. He says his only reason for opposing the building of the church is that the scheme has not been initiated in a business-like manner, nor in accordance with synodical rules. Those excuses do not bear on the face of them the stamp of sincerity. Did Mr. Williams wish to help us in the erection of our church, such trivial excuses would not stand in his way. I stated to the meeting on Wednesday evening that there must be something behind the scenes that we knew nothing of, other than the excuses he tried to make us swallow. What about the local in this morning’s paper? Ah! I can see a cloud on the horizon – no larger than a man’s hand. Let us wait and watch. Mr. Williams also states that our first meeting was only a preliminary one. That, I positively deny, as anybody can see by referring to the minutes of the previous meeting. The facts are these: Mr. Williams, not being present at the meeting, ridicules the idea of the working classes of Hastings presuming to take upon themselves the building of a place of worship; that, except we conform to all the ecclesiastical dogmas of the Church of England, it would be sacrilege to bow the knee in a house of their own building. I can assure Mr. Williams that the settlers of Hastings despise his opposition. We have commenced our church scheme, and a church we will have in spite of all opposition. He also speaks in a sneering manner of our pastor, Mr. Marshall. Had not the meeting perfect confidence in Mr. Marshall’s integrity, they would not make him architect, building committee and clerk of the works. Clive church is a standing proof of what I state. – I am, &c.,
R. WELLWOOD.
January 27, 1877.

HASTINGS CHURCH.
SIR, – Your Napier correspondent, who signs himself “Hastings,” deserves the thanks of our community for the very able and Christian manner in which he has advocated the cause of the weak against the strong. I would earnestly beg of him to write a few more letters in the same strain, and by that means get our backs up as high as our own, we should then follow the example of our Napier friends and build a church in our fury that for size and architectural beauty would far exceed any church that could have been built, if matters had gone on in the old humdrum style. – I am, &c.,
M.D.
Hastings, January 29, 1877.

CATHOLICS AND THE COMING ELECTION.
SIR, – For whom do Catholics intend to vote? They are a numerous body, and, were they sufficiently alive to their own interests to vote and act in a united manner, their support would in all probability make certain the return of any one of the four candidates. There is but one question in practical politics upon which Catholics have a right, (in common to some extent with other religious denominations), to ask that the candidate of their choice should entertain plain and decided views. I refer to the question of primary education. Upon other topics Catholics, as sensible men, will vote for the ablest man, the man whose word in political affairs can be relied upon, whose views are of a broad and enlightened character, and who would be heard at Wellington in a manner befitting the representative of Napier. Upon the subject of education Catholics, whose uphill labours from the infancy of the colony have been great and unremitting, have a right to demand that, whatever plan of education be adopted, nothing shall be done to injure their schools either by withholding the State grant altogether, by making it payable only upon irksome and unfair conditions, or by the unjust competition of free and secular State schools set up at their very doors. Mr. Tiffen, if one is to judge from his advertised political catechism, either fails to understand the question at issue, or, in a genuine Pecksniffian manner, evades it in a cloud of words. Mr. Sutton, who evidently means well, is profuse in expressions of admiration of the Hawke’s Bay education system, but avows that his experience is confined to this locality, and evidently knows little about the matter. What Mr. Rhodes knows about it is uncertain, and the uncertainty is not dispelled by his confused and contradictory public utterances, followed by pathetic explanatory letters in the newspapers. The trumpet of the religious body to which he is reputed to belong had ever an uncertain sound upon the question of education, and the trumpet Mr. Rhodes so persistently blows has a very similar note. There remains Mr. Buchanan, and Catholics would do well to give him their support. His policy is plain and distinct, and it is the policy of one who has read and thought much. He would do nothing to injure the present system, leans distinctly to the judicious compromise initiated in England by Mr. Forster, and pledges himself to resist in every way the obnoxious Victorian system, which, I need hardly say, Catholics must regard with well founded aversion. This is a plain and moderate policy, and we should give Mr. Buchanan our support. – I am, &c.,
A CATHOLIC.
January 27, 1877.

THE CATHOLIC VOTE.
SIR, – Lest any misapprehension should prevail as to the course of action likely to be pursued by the Catholics in the ensuing election, will you kindly permit me to state that it is not their intention to vote in a body either for Mr Buchanan or any other candidate. I know that the appearance of two or three Catholics, who took a somewhat prominent part at that gentleman’s meeting, would give a tinge to such a rumor sufficient to make it current, but allow me to assure you that those three persons no more represent the Catholic body than the three tailors of Tooley-street represented the people of England. Concerning those men privately I should have nothing to say, excepting Mr. Lee, who, I believe, is a very nice person; but I am astounded at Mr. Rearden putting himself forward as a representative Catholic, if he has done so. Moreover, it must be remembered that all the candidates are very favourably disposed towards us, except perhaps Mr. Sutton, whose experience, conveniently for him, does not extend in educational matters beyond Hawke’s Bay.
Hitherto the Catholics have refrained from protesting that it was their determination to vote collectively, but it is now time they took steps as will save them from being sacrificed to prejudice or cupidity. Against Mr. Buchanan I have nothing to say, indeed I believe him to be a very capable person, but it is the modus operandi of a few prejudiced persons that ought to be censured, and which, under certain circumstances, might lead to much unpleasantness.
Further, some man, who holds no higher position than that of a school teacher, is said to have promised Catholic support to such an extent as to expose us to the imputation of being incapable of thinking and acting for ourselves. Such conduct, I need hardly say, is reprehensible in the extreme, and will form the subject of a little inquiry. Moreover it is calculated to excite the suspicions, I will not say the intolerance, of those with whom we wish to stand well, although differing from them on some points in religious matters. After all, there is nothing in the present  contest so very unfavourable to the Catholics as to divide or separate us from the rest of the community, and I trust no Catholic will be so unwise as to compromise his co-religionists, whatever ulterior objects he might have in view. – I am, &c.,
CATHOLIC.
January 27, 1877.

MISREPRESENTATION.
SIR, – I crave a small space to set right one only of several misrepresentations in “Half Circle’s” letter, published on Saturday
The words used I will quote, to prevent any mistake: – “He (Mr Buchanan) with strange forgetfulness of the feeling in Hawke’s Bay concerning repudiation, had the temerity to claim with pride the honor of having been the first man here to induce the Maoris to repudiate their leases.”
I will now state the question exactly as the facts stood, and leave that portion of the public to whom “Half Circle” appeals – viz., those “whose residence here has been of short duration” – to decide between me and him.
For a year or two previous to 1865, the plains had been occupied by a few individuals “illegally and in defiance of the existing laws of the Colony.” This unlawful occupation had been a source of considerable trouble to the Government of the day. Late in 1865, the Native Lands Act in that year was passed. It was virtually a measure confiscating the rights of the public in favour of private individuals. Thereupon the Sibyl burned that portion of her volumes, and the Colony’s claims were wholly lost.
Delays as to the settling of the newly established Native Lands Court prevented anything further being done till 1867, in which year leases of the plains were legally executed by the natives, Two years afterwards (in 1869), Mr Stuart, aided by myself, endeavoured to purchase the reversionary interest of the Maoris – that is, the freehold of the land after the leases (the currency of which has not yet been run out) should fall in. In attempting this  there was nothing akin to repudiation; there is no temerity in avowing my connection with the effort, nor anything to be proud of. Were there any grounds for pride, it would be based on the earlier effort of 1862, to get for the Government of the time those lands from which the public were subsequently excluded.
My friends will feel no surprise if I leave future misrepresentations unanswered. – I am, &c.,
JNO.  BUCHANAN.

THE HONORARIUM.
SIR, – Having a lively recollection of what Mr. Buchanan said in referring to the honorarium, I think it very unfair that his views should be so distorted as they have been by the “Herald” this morning. His remarks were, after correcting the misapprehension relating to the amount, that he still considered the sum too high. He was aware that in New South Wales the members were entirely unpaid, but he did not think that desirable as it tended to throw the representation exclusively into the hands of town residents. Whilst not agreeing with him in his conclusions, I think he should be fairly reported. – I am, &c.,
Vox.
Port Ahuriri, January 29, 1877.

DENOMINATIONAL v. STATE (PURELY SECULAR) SCHOOLS.
SIR, – It seems impossible to get a decided and direct answer from the various candidates for election as to what are their views on education as regards what measures they will support; but there is an action of deed which implies action of support – I refer to Mr Tiffen, who gave a site and I believe a subscription to the denominational school at Taradale. Whatever form education may take, and, although I see Mr Buchanan is opposed to it, the compulsory clause, from my knowledge of educational matters in the colony, should be inserted, as it will be beneficial to the community however large or small. But there is one thing under the present arrangement which I cannot understand, and, perhaps, you, Sir, can inform the public why the advantages derived from the two schools are not equal? I refer to the bonuses payable only to teachers of State (purely secular) schools. The time and work given by teachers of both schools are equivalent. Then, query! Why the difference? Again, Sir, the schools are under the same supervision, and the denominational schools are supported at a much cheaper rate than the State schools of New Zealand by the Government, and returns duly forwarded, and still they do not reap the same benefits. I think, Sir, if education takes the same form as it does at present, teachers should be placed on the same footing. I cannot agree with Mr. Buchanan that the schools should not be under the control of the Government. They certainly should be, and superintended by a Central Board of Education, with its Inspector and simply a local Financial Committee. That such would be conducive to the welfare of the schools, especially in country districts, as also to the teachers, there is not the slightest doubt. – I am, &c.,
EQUALITY.
January 29, 1877.

MISREPRESENTATION.
SIR, – Mr. Buchanan accuses me of having misrepresented his past actions in connection with his attempt to purchase the Heretaunga plain in 1869. If I did so, it was quite unintentional. The very extraordinary character that Mr. Buchanan has assumed for the nonce, almost puts it out of one’s power at this time to state for certain what he is, or what he has done. That which he formerly called vicious, is now a virtue; what was once all that was reprehensible, is now deserving of the highest commendation. When a man turns his coat he should do so thoroughly, and not have a valet to help him in the operation whose whole political career suggests that the garment is put wrong side outwards as an electioneering dodge to catch the unsophisticated amongst the voters.
And now, Sir, a few words in continuation of my last communication. Each one of the candidates, when treating on education, has apparently put a check on himself, lest by an unguarded word he should prove he knew something of his subject, and held an opinion upon it. Perhaps not one of the candidates knew anything concerning educational systems – certainly Mr. Buchanan’s exposition of that in force in England did not exhibit much information. Yet Mr. Buchanan’s ignorance actually appeared wisdom to the Catholics of Napier. The letters you published in your yesterday’s issue show that this was the case. Those letters were probably the outcome of the abortive vestry meeting of St. Mary’s congregation

THE WEEKLY MERCURY.   15

– a meeting, it is reported, that was got up by political agents for the purpose of leading the Catholics by their political noses.
Now I will put the Catholics right in the matter of the English system of education. In the first place it is a permissive Act, that is to say, it is permissive as regards compulsory attendance at schools; it is permissive as regards religious teaching. These permissive clauses were the result of a compromise, and the Act, as it now stands, is no more like Mr. Forster’s original Bill than Country milk is like chalk and water. The Act met with the fiercest opposition from the Catholics, and up to the present time it has not received their approval. The system is briefly this – the supervision of the schools, the appointment of teachers, erection of buildings, &c., are under the management and control of local Boards, the members of which decide by vote whether in their district compulsory education shall be enforced. The only religious teaching that the Act allows is during such hours as do not interfere with the ordinary school work, and it is optional with parents to withdraw their children from the school when religious instruction is being given. Now I put it to Catholics, is such a system one which would obtain their support? Is the Brumagem doctrine likely to be taught at State schools one that they could approve of? Why, the permission to parents to withdraw their children from school when so-called religion was being taught, was specially inserted in the Act as a concession to Catholics – a concession they scorn to avail themselves of. So far as Catholics are concerned, there can be no difference between the English and Victorian systems.
I am &c.,
HALF CIRCLE.   Napier, January 30, 1877

RAM FAIR.
SIR, – I observe a local in this morning’s Herald intimating that the editor has learned that one breeder, who has taken a number of prizes, has a fine lot of rams for sale at the fair, and a note of the careful management of the breeder’s manager, from which high prices should be obtained. Now, I think, you newspaper gentlemen should scatter your favors equally over all the breeders who have taken prizes, and who have careful managers. Pray, Mr. Editor, commence the DAILY TELEGRAPH series with me, as hitherto I have only advertised through my agent.   Card enclosed. – I am, &c.,
RAM.
January 30, 1877.

WHO IS THE BEST MAN?
SIR – “Argus’s” letter is a most comical production. He begins by deprecating the use of strong language and then in the course of his remarks abuses in most unmeasured terms those who are opposed to him. He charges them with making “wild and rash statements” with “falsifying statements,” and “contorting facts.” “Argus” is seemingly no believer in the proverb that what is “sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.” He evidently writes under my description of his style of writing, which, if it had not been so appropriate, would never have been so strongly resented. “Argus” has quietly shifted his ground, having seen that his statement about Mr. Sutton’s independence is too absurd to be longer maintained, but now charges him with want of politeness!!! of which virtue “Argus” evidently thinks himself a complete pattern. Has a second Mr. Turveydrop really arisen in our midst? What a pity that his light should be hidden under a bushel. I sincerely advise “Argus” to come forth from his obscurity; and selecting opportunity (say on the hustings ) give Mr. Sutton and his fellow candidates some instruction in the art of politeness. What an edifying spectacle it would be to see “Argus” with his “little book” teaching the portly candidates the rudiments of polite deportment. I am afraid, however, that even here “Argus’s” practise would fall far short of his teaching; for the latter paragraph of his letter is taken up with decrying in the coarsest manner two gentlemen who have never been publicly before the constituency in connection with this election; and who ( whatever their private views may be) common decency not to speak of politeness, might have left in that sudied [studied] retirement which they have hitherto maintained. – I am, &c.,
JACOBUS.
January 30, 1877.

The Primate, through his Commissary, has accepted the Rev. S. Robinson’s resignation, and has relieved him with the Rev. J. Townsend’s consent, from all clerical duty in connection with St. John’s Church.

MR. BUCHANAN AT HASTINGS.
A  MEETING of the electors was held in the school-house at Hastings on Monday, for the purpose of hearing Mr. Buchanan’ s political views. There were about 100 persons present. –
Mr. Goodwin was voted to the chair.
The Chairman, after stating the objects of the meeting, introduced Mr. Buchanan, who said that he stood before them in a kind of difficulty. Circumstances over which he had no control placed him in apparent antagonism to the electors of Hastings, or rather what might be considered for their interests. The block of land upon which they now stood, in common with others, was in course of litigation, and as he was supposed to be a supporter of that party which had initiated those legal proceedings, no doubt many in that room were taught to be opposed to him. He hoped, however, they would give him an unprejudiced and patient hearing. – (Cheers. ) No doubt this question was uppermost in the minds of the electors, and it would certainly decide this election. He recommended them to make a compromise, and not join those who objected to this course, and thus  secure valid titles to their lands. Mr. Sutton during the last session had attempted to get a Validation Act passed (Mr. Sutton: No.) Notwithstanding Mr. Sutton’s contradiction, he had heard it from the lips of one on whom he could place reliance that during last session Mr. Sutton was to be seen in the lobbies of the House with a petition, in which was embodied a request that such an Act should be passed. [Mr. Sutton: No] Those papers were laid before the Native Affairs Committee. Yet Mr. Sutton was now going round seeking the votes of the electors so that he might be placed in a position to introduce such a measure himself, but such legislation would never be carried in the face of such watchful opponents as he had in the House. He (Mr. S) would attempt to keep up the agitation in the House, but it would have the effect of disgusting members with Hawke’s Bay land squabbles. Mr Sutton had proclaimed himself as a thick and thin supporter of the Government. (Cheers ). This may be so, but there is this one fact. The question arises, do the Government want him? Will he not be an incubus to them? He appeals to Mr Ormond, and to prove this he would quote his own words. [Mr Buchanan then quoted from a previous speech of Mr Sutton’s in support of his statement]. Have we sunk into such a state of helotry that it is necessary for a candidate to attach himself to Mr Ormond’s coat-tails? Mr Sutton’s chief testimonial is that he some time or other dared to differ from Mr Ormond – that he once in his life contradicted Mr Ormond! And it is with such a testimonial as this that he comes seeking your suffrages. (Applause.) Had he worn the Government collar so long that he had to make this avowal in the hope that it would secure their votes? (Laughter and applause.) He (Mr. Buchanan) hoped the electors would show by their votes that they would not support such slavishness, and prove they were not Helots. (Cheers.) Yes, this aspirant as a public man – to a Chairmanship to a County Council – this aspirant to a seat in the House of Representatives must come ticketed by Mr Ormond. (Cheers.) He (Mr. Buchanan) acknowledged Mr Ormond was an able man – a shrewd politician, but they would find he would not bind himself to that gentleman’s chariot wheels in the House. He did not believe the electors respected those who showed such submissive qualities. There are plenty of men in the House already who possess these qualities, but he thought that those who came before them couteauing had any claim to their consideration. [The speaker again urged his hearers not to enter into law contests with respect to their lands.] He was aware that the claims made by the natives could have been settled for an almost paltry payment only for the opposition of Mr. Tanner, but that gentleman thought his dignity would suffer if he settled the claims by that mode. This block was the weakest case that could be raised, nevertheless we all knew the uncertainties of the law. The question has however a far wider scope in distant parts of the province, and the sooner some effectual settlement was made the sooner those lands would be thrown open for settlement, and capitalists be induced to come and settle amongst us; but while these lands were in dispute, capitalists would keep away. We cannot improve the Maoris off the face of the earth, or drive them to the wilds, they must be part and parcel of the community, and the sooner we arrive at this conclusion the better. We must remove from them all special protection and all special legislation. They require no longer to  be in leading strings, and the natives are also desirous that the past state of affairs should end. Another claim this valued and stout supporter of the Government makes is that he will go to the House loaded with his own grievances. He (Mr B ) had set out on this contest with the intention to avoid personal attack, but Mr. Sutton had commenced this kind of warfare, and he must give the Roland for his Oliver.  [Mr Sutton: Can stand it all] With reference to his support of the government, the present Ministry had no policy before the country. Most of the men were new to office (Mr. Sutton: No.) Their views were wholly unknown. He had promised, if elected, to give them support, not ‘thorough” as Mr. Sutton promised. He would withhold his thorough support until he heard their policy. Mr. Sutton would come to the Ministry with his grievances—as a friend – as their most cordial friend, and try to tack his cases on their coat tails, but the weight of his support would be more damaging to the government than his (Mr. B’s) opposition would be. (Applause). “Where his treasure is, there will his heart be also.”  (A voice: He will kill two birds with one stone.) But it is questionable whether he will catch his bird, or if he does will he not kill it (Laughter).With some further remarks regarding taxation, Mr. Buchanan concluded his speech. After answering several questions, he resumed his seat amidst applause.
Mr Sutton stated he could not have come forward to speak had it not been for the personal remarks of Mr. Buchanan. The latter gentleman had not attempted to enlighten the public on political subjects, but confined his remarks to personal abuse of himself. Mr. Buchanan had informed the meeting, in Napier on Friday that the present Ministry would receive his support, but now he appeared to be changing his tactics. He says that Abolition is a permissive measue [measure], yet he professes to support Ministers while condemning their acts. (Cheers.) Mr. Buchanan recommends a compromise with respect to the native land transactions, but they did not want his advice; those interested were well able to look after themselves. (Cheers.) He (Mr B ) even went so far as to say that Mr. Tanner should have settled the Heretaunga claim by compromise. When Mr. Tollemache attempted to make this compromise, he was doubtless thinking of the interest he would receive for his money if it was effected, but Mr. Tanner thought he was able to manage his own business best. (Cheers.) If there is now no policy before the country when was there one?  The present Government were the authors of the new form of government, and was not their policy one of retrenchment which they were carrying you successfully. They were cutting off useless and pruning down the Civil List. This he thought was an important policy. After alluding to the question of taxation, Mr Sutton said with respect to Mr Buchanan’s charge about attempting to get a Validation Bill passed last session. He denied the accusation. The petition he presented was asking the House to pass a Bill whereby persons instituting actions against the natives and obtaining judgments, should be enabled when the case was decided in their favor to enter upon the native lands and have their expenses recouped them. He never asked to get validation titles, and the petition could be seen by any person doubting his word. After some further remarks Mr Sutton resumed his seat amidst loud cheers.
Mr John Sheehan said he was not only an elector, but it was also on the cards that he might also become a candidate. (Cheers and laughter), The meeting, after Mr Sutton’s address, would probably like to hear both sides of the question. The whole of Mr Sutton’s speech on Saturday evening was confined to attack his opponents after the fashion of an old woman scolding. First as to compromise he would state this, that in the event of a compromise be agreed to with other parties, he could assure Mr Sutton that no attempt with a compromise would be made with him. They did not intend to make him any such offer. Mr Sutton had told them that he had got a legal judgment in his favour with respect to his land transaction at Omaranui [ Omarunui ]. That may be so, but he could tell Mr Sutton that public opinion was against him in Napier, Wellington, and in fact through the whole colony. He had been informed by a member of the present Cabinet (Mr Whitaker) who had an opportunity of seeing and reading the whole of the documents, papers, and evidence in this case, that the Omaranui purchase by Mr. Sutton was of so grave a character that if he (Mr Sheehan) could see his way clear to re-open the case before a British court they (the Government) would be willing to expend £10,000 in obtaining a rehearing of it, (Mr Sutton: Not true.) Well there were two reporters present who would take his words down, and he would be responsible for that statement before the House of Representatives, where he would substantiate it. (Cheers and counter cheers.) What is Mr. Sutton’s party? Mr Sutton says he has forty friends. Some of you have read the tale of Ali Baba and the forty thieves. (Great laughter.) There is Ali Baba (pointing to Mr Sutton) and his friends are the Forty Thieves. (Great laughter and applause.) If Mr Sutton had been true to the people, and not looked entirely to his own interests we should have seen these plains from Farndon to Paki Paki instead of being dotted with sheep and a few homesteads we should see it inhabited by hundreds of sturdy farmers. (Cheers.) No part of New Zealand had such a fine country as Hawke’s Bay. Yet what has become of the plains? In looking over bills of sale, leases, and other documents the name that figured therein was F. Sutton. (Laughter.) Who swallowed the plains? Mr Sutton. Mr Sutton had told them a great deal about the wisdom of the Government with respect to retrenchment. This was a specimen of Mr Sutton’s talking power. It was the party which Mr Sutton supported that opposed retrenchment and prevented the Opposition last session from cutting down the estimates The Government had cut down the salaries of a few engineers, and other small people but they had not attempted to hit on the Civil List who did little, but drew large salaries from the Treasury. (Cheers.) He did take this credit to himself that he obtained the extra member for Napier. (Mr Sutton: No.) He opposed Sir G. Grey on this matter, and divided against him. The division list will show that this statement was a correct one. (Cheers.) Mr Kelly the member for the East Coast attempted to tack on Poverty Bay to Napier in order to make his seat secure, but he resisted effectually this movement, and got Napier her second member. (Cheers.) (Mr Sutton: The Government Bill contained that proviso.) Well, he was in this position, that through his influence the motion would have been negatived – a position Mr Sutton would never attain. (Applause.) We know from Mr Sutton that all he expects to do is to vote for himself and his party friends. He would go into the lobby with the Government whether they were on the people’s side or otherwise. (Cheers.) No part of the colony had suffered more than Hawke’s Bay through the monopoly of the land. (Voice: You said Mr Sutton swallowed them.) Well, we will administer an emetic to Mr. Sutton. (Great cheering.) There was first, the Government land and then the native land. His friend Mr Buchanan he got portion of the Government lands, but this is the man (Mr Sutton) that but for these transactions many of you would here have freeholds of your own. (Cheers). Mr Sheehan then referred to Mr Nairn’s land purchases. Where was Mr Sutton when these lands were being made away with? Did he ever raise his voice to stop this mopping up of lands? (The Speaker here gave an history of the Heretaunga land purchase, and how those interpreters who assisted were rewarded by Government billets.) The question was whether they would place Mr Sutton in the House or Mr Buchanan. The other candidates were out of the running and not even dark horses. (Laughter). As for the Heretaunga plains, he would assure all those present that before taking up the cause he had on hand he had extracted from the natives a promise that in the event of being successful, those small holders who purchased from others should not suffer) He would guarantee each and everyone of them a good title. (Cheers). And he would say this much that if natives were to attempt to annul that bargain he (Mr Sheehan) would not act for them any longer. Mr Sheehan concluded an able speech amid great applause.
A vote of thanks was unanimously accorded to Mr Buchanan for his address.
After a vote of thanks to the Chairman the meeting broke up.

HORTICULTURAL CALENDAR FOR HAWKE’S BAY.
At this particular season of the year the Sweet William is not in flower. It is running to seed. This plant has a tendency to establish itself on the richest soil of the garden, and the hoe should be applied when necessary, as in this climate the plant has become a rank weed.
DIAUTHUS BARBATUS.

16   THE WEEKLY MERCURY.

HAWKE’S BAY JOCKEY CLUB RACES.

THURSDAY AND FRIDAY
22nd and 23rd 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, 1¾ miles; entrance, 2 sovs, acceptance 3 sovs to the funds. Nominations with 2 sovs to be made to the Secretary, by 8p.m. on Saturday, 23rd December. Weights to be declared by Wednesday, 10th January. Acceptances with 3 sovs., to [be] 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 7lbs 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 7lb; if for £30 , allowed 14lb; if for £20, allowed 21lbs; if for £10, allowed 28lbs; 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, 10lbs; 5 years and upwards, 14 lbs. Entrance, 4 sovs.
HAWKE’S BAY PRODUCE STAKES – 75 sovs. 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 p.m. 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 p.m. 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.

IMPOUNDED AT WAIPAWA,
by Mr. Waldron
ONE flea-bitten grey Horse, branded near shoulder like  Î .
Will be sold this day fortnight, at noon, unless redeemed.
HENRY J. BAKER.
Poundkeeper.

PROPERTIES FOR SALE.

70,000 ACRES Freehold Crown Grant, and
20,000 acres Leasehold, with
50,000 Sheep, 250 Cattle, 45 Horses
The Homestead of this property is about 20 miles from Napier; 25,000 acres have been already surface sown, the soil is rich, limestone formation, hills and downs, well watered, rapidly increasing in carrying capacity, and the whole divided into eight great divisions by 107 miles of fencing, and 75 miles good natural boundaries, rivers and creeks, numerous paddocks, and yards, two woolsheds and every improvement for working the Station, about 55,000 acres fit for Agriculture, suitable for cutting up into small properties. This Estate is to be disposed of solely on account of dissolution of partnership.
7,000 acres Freehold, Crown Grant, 24 miles from Napier
23,000 acres Leasehold, 18 years to run, low rent, with
9,000 Sheep, 40 head Cattle, Horses, Bullocks, &c. Good home improvements, and 2,000 acres fenced into paddocks; the whole will take grass seed readily, is well watered, and easy access from town.
440 acres Rich Land, highly improved, 8 miles from Napier
416 acres Rich Land, richly grassed, 8 miles from Napier
613 acres Rich Land, richly grassed, 8 miles from Napier
11,000 acres Freehold, Crown Grant, with
2,000 acres Leasehold, excellent pastoral lands, 40 miles from Napier, well bounded, over 30 miles fencing, 25 paddocks, good houses, woolshed, and all necessary improvements, with
10,000 Sheep, few Cattle and Horses
3,920 acres Freehold, rich pastoral land, Wairoa, with
800 Sheep, and 100 head Cattle
900 acres Freehold Agricultural and Pastoral Land, Wairoa
4,677 acres Freehold Agricultural and Pastoral Land, Wairoa, with
3,000 Sheep, and other necessary working improvements
3,000acres Freehold, Southern Seaboard, improved
1,220 acres Freehold, Southern Seaboard, improved
400 acres Freehold, Southern Seaboard, improved
2,500 acres Freehold, Southern Seaboard, improved, with
2,000 Sheep and 250 head Cattle
4,200 acres Freehold Agricultural and Pastoral Land, Poverty Bay
220 acres Freehold Agricultural and Pastoral Land, Poverty Bay
30,000 acres Leasehold Pastoral Land, Poverty Bay, with
800 Sheep and 200 head Cattle
11,000 acres Leasehold, Pastoral, Poverty Bay, with
3,000 Sheep and few Cattle
1,600 acres Leasehold, half interest, Poverty Bay
14,000 acres Leasehold, excellent country, Tologa Bay
8,800 acres Leasehold, excellent country, Tologa Bay, with
3,000 Sheep and good improvements
1,100 acres Freehold, rich land, Opotiki, with
1,000 Sheep, and all necessary improvements
33,000 acres Leasehold, Pastoral, 26 miles from Napier
150,000 acres Leasehold Pastoral, 30 miles from Napier with
10,000 Sheep, exclusive of Lambs
55,000 acres Leasehold, Pastoral, 70 miles from Napier, with
5,000 Sheep and 50 head Cattle
9,000 acres Freehold, Agricultural and Pastoral, Seaboard, with
14,000 acres Leasehold, valuable improvements, and
15,000 Sheep, few Cattle, Horses, &c.
1,639 acres Freehold, near Greytown, with
1,040 acres Leasehold, all fenced and subdivided, and
5,000 longwool Sheep, 120 Cattle, few horses, and every improvement necessary. The coach road passes through the property.
273 acres Freehold Farm, near Sandon, fenced and well grassed.
M.R. MILLER,
Stock and Station Agent.

IMPROVED FREEHOLD ESTATES.
PAKOWHAI, NEAR NAPIER.
44 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 only about 6 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 2 ¼ miles of the Farndon Railway Station.
As the Owner requires not only all his available capital, but also to bestow the whole 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 remain on the mortgage at SEVEN PER CENT 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, 8th January, 1877

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. 134. – 104
No. 135. – 133   No. 153. – 80
No. 154. – 105   No. 199. – 73
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 [thorough] 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 [Trade Mark]
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 be duped into buying villainous compounds styled “Holloway’s 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]
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 China, published in 1871, says – “l 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 teaspoon-ful 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, FEBRUARY 3, 1877.