It is announoed that the conclusion ar rived at between England and France res pecting the New Hebrides Convention pledges that France will allow British subjects equal commercial privilege -, at the same time guaranteeing that no convicts will be sent to the Leeward Islands. The Australian Land Mortgage Agency has declared a dividend of 8 per cent and a bonus of 2 per cent. It has been decided by the directors to add £7750 to the Reserve Fund. Rio de Janeiro, January 5. The New Zealand Shipping Company's R.M.S. Ruapehu left to-day for Plymouth, all well. Paris, January 7. In consequence of the disclosures which have been made, it is intended to prosecute M. De Wilson, the son-in law of M. Grevy, the ex-President. Berlin, January 6. The physicians who bave been in atten dance on the Crown Prince are agreed that the affliction from which the Prince is Buffering is laryngitis, and not cancer.
The Latest.
(Received January 9, 1140 a.m.)

Decreased Crime in Ireland.
London, January 8. Tho aßsizes show that a great decrease in crime bas taken place in the West and South of Ireland.
H.M.S. Lizard.
London, January 8. H.M. torpedo cruiser L'zard whioh joins the Australian Station hns sailed for Sjdney.
British Imports and Exports.
LONDON, January 8. ' The return of imports and exports for the year show the vclue of imports to be £362,000,000, and of exporls £221,400,000.
Stanley's Expedition.
London, January 8. Congo despatches to December 10 are silent as to the movements of Stanley, and much uneasiness prevails in consequence.
Irish Affairs.
