[Per Press Association.] AUCKLAND, June 25. The Melanesian Mission schooner Southern Cross arrived to-day. She has on board the crew of the American whaler Petrel, picked up on Pacific Island. . . A private cable message received in town states that the Rev. Charles Clark, who made such a successful lecturing tour in New Zealand about 10 years ago, leaves England for Australia this month. About midnight Eden Hall with a shop and two dwelling-houses, was destroyed by fire. The block is owned by Mr W. K. Henderson. The insurances are in the South British £6OO, in the Royal £SOO, and in the Norwich Union £250. Donaldson’s bootmaker’s stock, which was destroyed, is insured for £SO in the Norwich Union. An old woman named Davis was found dead in a house at Panmure, She had been missing several days. The body when found was in a horrible state, the rata having partly eaten it. WELLINGTON, June 25, It is stated that Inspector Shearman will shortly be removed to Auckland, and that Inspector Thompson, of Auckland, will take charge of this district. Mrs Edward Eagle succumbed to the effects of an apoplectic fit yesterday at Carterton. She was assisting at the Ju bilee celebration on Monday last, and fell after singing the first verse of the National Anthem with the children. She was removed to her home. About an hour afterwards she was conscious for a short time, but became again unconscious and remained so up till her death. Mr Thomas Mason, who for some years represented the Hutt District, has an nounced that he will oppose Mr H. Fitz herbert. HOKITIKA, June 25. Mr Sevan, the sitting member for Hokitika, has, in response to a largo requisition, offered himself for re-election. Mr Qrimmond, of Ross, has also an nounced himself. There are rumours of a third candidate, but nothing definite is yet known.
