Macfarlase said the Commissioner should be asked to take evidence, and eximine the Custom-house agent. This terminated the meeting/

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS. (COMMUNICATED.)

' TtfESDAT, December 10, 1887, the eve of the Bishop a birthday, was observed as a day of recreation for the Maori and half-caste pupils of the Nazareth Insti tution, under the care of the Sisters of the Holy Family, Mount St. Mary. This recreation was given to the children in honour of the Bishop's birth day. At 3 o'clock, p m.j his Lordship, accompanied by his clergy, visited the above Institution. Many innocent amusements were provided for the pupils, amongst which was an interesting dialogue. The school-room was tastefully decorated for the occasion, a rich throne being provided for the BUhop. The dialogue represented some Maori children in their native settlements, and others in educational estab lishments. By this arrangement, one could clearly gee the advantage of Christian civilisation over the Maori customs. The mode of salutation used by the Maori people on the arrival of their friends, was well delineated. Three addresses were presented to his Lordship in the school, one in Maori by Miss Anne Jonson, another in English by Miss Mary Jonson, and the third in French. The entertainment was enlivened from time to time with rocal and instru mental music. Three native chiefs aud many ladies from the city and suburbs were present,— amongst whom was the niece of his Excellenoy the Governor, Miss Matthews— who expressed themselves highly pleased. Towards the end of the entertainment, his Lordship delivered a very eloquent address to the pupils on the necessity of obedience, and the great advantage to be derived from a Christian education. On Wednesday, the Bishop's birthday, his Lord ihip celebrated mass in St. Patrick's Cathedral. He was assisted on the occasion by the Very Rev. Dr. McDonald, Vicar-General, and the Very Rev. Dominic Galosi ; the Very Rev. Walter McDonald, Private Secretary, being master of ceremonies. The Ber. Fathers O'Reilly and McEntegart assisted in the Sanctuary. The Sanctuary pupils were very numerous, and performed their duties with edifica tion. The choir of the Cathedral sang with good effect the different portions of the mass. At 11 o'clock a.m., his Lordship, with his clergy, visited St. Patrick's and St. 