In 1891 no less than 1,216 novels were published in Britain as compared with 518 in 1880. Theological works for the same years" have decreased from 975 to 627. The total number of books issued in 1890 was 5,706. Deer must be plentiful in the Tapa nui dtstrict this season. A herd of 40 stags was counted by Mr Steven at Black Gully recently, while Ranger Burt has seen several herds. He counted 25 in one lot the other day. The does with young at foot are all over the place. The sunflower is the best egg producing food known for poultry, keeping them in a thriving condition and largely increasing the production of the eggs. Every poultry raiser who tries it will find that this is the best food kno ™ for glossing the plumage of fowls and is almost indispensable for those who want to fit their birds for exhibition to the best advantage. The Russian sunflower is easily raised, requiring very little care, and can be grown in fence corners and other places difficult to cultivate. Its pro duction of seed is immense, yielding often at the rate of 100 bushels to the acre. It should be planted in hills four feet apart. Three quarts of seed will plant an acre. The above is taken from a Home exchange. We are in a posi tion to state that it is strictly accurate. The Tasmanian silver-mines at Zeehan, Dundas, have (says the Christchurch Press) up to now, almost ruined every Tasmanian who has touched them. A month ago it was unanimously agreed at meetings of the various companies, to suspend opera tions sine die, and it was stated that the total amount in calls, amounted to ; £25,000 or £30,000 per month. This was too much for the pockets of the Tasmanians. The Silver Oueen Mine is the only one that has paid a dividend, and this was a very small one. Remini is the nearest port of shipment, situated 12 miles from Mount Zeehan, and £7 10s is paid for carting ore this distance, over a road 12ft wide, which for nine months of the year is a float ing mass of corduroy. The Silver King Mine, upon which is erected the most expensive and complete machinery on the field, is still sinking in search of the lode. 