However, on the monster appearing a second time it caused them to make a desperate effort, and they succeeded in reaching the Waotu bank. There is no doubt about the men being frightened, and they say the head (the only part they saw) was similar to a large black retriever. The reckless and very wild assertion made by Mr. Standish and others respect ing our harbour^ is having the effect we stated. Already the papsrs are quoting the words uttered ut the meeting about the silting up of the harbour, as will be Been from the following paragraph tele graphed from Wellington to the Auckland Herald: — " I have heard that tho harbour is silting up bo rapidly that vessels will soon not be able to go near the breakwater. I have heard that Mi. Blackett will go shortly to make an official inspection of the harbour." The B.s. Murray anived at tho break water on Wednesday last, from Havelock, having on board Mr James Rutherford and family. This gentleman intends to settlo at (Ju'po Egmont, where he has chosen a site for a flax mill, tho plant for which he brought up in tho Murray. He was en gaged in the flax trade in the Nelson province, and afterwards at Havelock (Murlborough), but at both places he was compelled to discontinue through the flax giving out. lie afterwords at the latter place went into the line of supplying rail way sleepers to the Government, but, losing that, ho determined to come up hero, after having had an inspection of the district Borne months ago. _ As said, he came on Wednesday last, with machinery and plant for his mill at the Cape, which he will erect forthwith. Since his arrival ho has been very busy in getting every thing ready for his departure to his now homo, and to-day (Friday) ho expected to mako a start out. We understand that Mr. Samuel, M.H R., J has wired to the Fremier lDquiiing the whereabouts of Mr. Blackott, and when ho may be expeoted to visit New Plymouth. 