The number of bags of grain and produce received at Dunedin railway stations to-day wa'B as fol lows:— .'■ -; ".-•■. ■■ •■ ■ ■■ ■■ -...■-. ■■•■'■. ■■ '

Oats. Wheat. Barley. Potatoes. Flour, bran. Total 2548 158 50 196 216 3160

Business in the import market has bsen rather dull during the past week, especially for the opening of the month." The chief item of interest to report Is the sale by auction on Monday last of the cargo of sugar ex Thurso. The market was in a very favour able condition for the sale, stocks having run very bare, and the consequence was a quick clearance of every line at prices marking a considerable advance on rates ruling just previous to the sale. Snowdrops were quitted at up to £23 17b 6d per ton, fine whites at up to £23103 per ton, and ordinary whites, almost greys, at up to £22 15s per ton—prices which must aye been satisfactory/to the importers. Since the sale values have hardened, and the auction purchases are being rapidly distributed amongst retailers. For ordinary trade lots of snowdrops £24 10s to £25 is asked. There is also a move in kerosene; in conse quence of increased cost and higher freights holders of high test oils have advanced their price to Is 9d per gallon. -. Sales have been made during the week at less money, but the majority of holders ask the higher figure. to-day. Fruits continue dull. Currants move off but slowly at 4jd per lb • Bultanas at s£d per lb, and Blemes at 5d per lb. In fish there, is not much doing. Leading brands of American salmon sell at 9b 6d to 10s per dozen Hops are quiet, brewers haviDg laid in stocks for their requirements. A few bales ef Nelson's chance hands occasionally at up to Is 3d per lb. Stocks of rice, both Patna and dressed, are plentiful. The former is taken up in trade lots at £20 10s per ton, duty paid, and the latter at £18 per ton, duty paid. Salt is a shade easier, coarse Belling at £4 ISs'per ton, and fine at £5 per ton. Cement shows a tendency to hardens Purchases can still be'made at 18s per barrel, but there are holdsrs who prefer to keep their stocks than sell at present current rates. Fencing wire Is improving. 