Cape and Natal News from 1858

4 January 1859

The Royal Mail steamer Norman, belonging to the Union Company, arrived in Plymouth on Tuesday with the mails from Cape Town and Natal of the 20th November. Having performed the voyage five days within the time, the company will receive a bonus of £50 per day in addition to the subsidy. The following is a list of the passengers -
Mr. W. MELVIN
Captain SQUIRE
Captain LUCAS
Mr. BUTCHER
Mr. & Mrs. MORRIS, two children and a nurse
Miss DAVIS
Mrs. BELL and three children
Mr. & Mrs. RYAN and three children
Mr. TUCKER
Lieutenant HARVEY

The Royal Mail steamer Phoebe, Captain CLARK, belonging to the Union Steam Shipping Company, arrived in Table Bay on the 11th November, having accomplished the passage in 36 days. She had on board the following passengers-
Lady GREY
Mrs. SULLIVAN
Mrs. J. REID
Mr. & Mrs. H. REID and infant
Mr. & Mrs. GILBERT
Mr. & Mrs. J.C. BERRANGE and family
Miss CLOETE
Miss LEVISON
Miss BERRANGE
Dr. LEVISON
Mr. Charles WATSON
Mr. HOVIL
Mr. E. EARBENSOHN
Mr. BATE
Cornet HARNETTE
C.M.R. Ensign Van HOMINGH
Master ALLFORT
Mr. HAMERSCHLAS
Mrs. IVESON
Mr. & Mrs. G. WATKINS and child (died on the 10th November)
Mrs. M'GRATH and five children
Mr. CORLEY - one male and three female servants

The Royal Mail Steamer Celt will sail for the Cape and Natal from Southampton on the 5th inst, calling at Devonport. She will take out the following passengers-
FOR CAPE TOWN - Mr. & Mrs. HILLIERS and two children
Mr. C. BUCK
Mrs. NASH
Mr. & Mrs. MAYBURGH
Miss CLARK
Mr. Charles WILLIAMS
Messrs. FORDRED, ROBERTSON and FINDLAY
Miss CAWOOD
Lieutenant BORFORD
Captain BARTON and servant
Miss TERRY
Mr. EVANS
Mr. CATOR
Mr. C. DAVIDSON
Mr. TURPIN and friend
Mr. GUMPERT

The Skimmer of the Seas was dispatched yesterday by Messrs. Falconer and Mercer from Gravesend for Algoa Bay. She took the following passengers -
Mr. & Miss RICKARDS, assistant and servant
Miss A. CUMMINS
Miss SMITH
Mr. & Mrs. H.S. CARLETON and infant
Messrs. HALIBURTON (2)

CAPE OF GOOD HOPE

Previous to 1838 the only sheep with few exceptions to be found in the colony was the broad-tailed Cape sheep, bearing no wool. About that year, however, Captain ROBB, the commander of a vessel trading with some of the Australian colonies, brought hither a few merino sheep. They were found to be much superior to the fat tails and admirably suited to the country. In 1833 the wool exported was in all but 113,077 lbs, now it is upwards of sixteen million pounds. Flocks of the finest woolled sheep are to be found in the grazing districts, recently too the Angora goat has been introduced and is becoming a favorite.

In 1843 a public board was appointed to superintend the construction of roads. They first opened up a main line from Cape Town to the interior and mountain passes were constructed over the principal ranges in the Western and EasternProvinces.

In the maritime point of view, too, much could be said of the harbours of the Cape. To make Table Bay a safe port of refuge, the Colonial Parliament have passed an enactment by which moneys will be raised to construct a breakwater, and this work will be commenced within twelve months at the furthest. A company has been formed who are to apply to Parliament next year for powers to enable them to form a dock in Simon's Bay.

The Fine Arts Exhibition had been opened at Cape Town. The collection of oil paintings, prints and photographs is said to be very creditable. An elaborate address was delivered at the opening by the Rev. H.A. DOUGLAS, Dean of Cape Town.

We regret to learn that Major HOPE, the Late Auditor-General, has left his widow and family very moderately provided for. It had been determined to raise a "Hope Testimonial Fund" and a committee was appointed consisting of forty influential gentleman.

The colony is peaceful and prosperous.

WESTERNPROVINCE

The contract agreed upon between the Government and the Cape Town Railway and Dock Company for the construction of the first colonial railway from Cape Town to Wellington had been published. The engineer and workmen engaged to commence the work were expected to arrive by the middle of next month and they would at once enter upon their labours

The colony has to congratulate itself in possessing a horse-taming disciple of Mr. Rarey in the person of Dr. OTTO of Swellendam. A correspondent of the Argus writes from that place as follows: -
Dr W.J. OTTO, son of John OTTO Esq., of this place who took lessons of the celebrated horse-tamer Mr. RAREY while in London on Monday last, succeeded with the greatest facility in effectually taming a most vicious horse, the property of a gentleman of this town. The usual Rarey test of allowing the operator to lie down upon him, beat his hoofs together were endured with the utmost indifference by the horse after his mysterious interview with the operator.

The Malmesbury district Agricultural Society held their first annual show and fair on Wednesday in the village of Malmesbury. There was a fair show of agricultural stock and produce, but very few implements were exhibited. A portable steam engine was sent out from Cape Town by the Metropolitan Society but it did not reach Malmesbury in time. A number of samples of wine were shown and the prize awarded to Mr. D. SMUTS for a red wine.

MARRIAGES
25th Oct at Cape Town, Mr. Michael COETZEE , to Miss Mary Ann SMITH
26th Oct at Cape Town Mr. Joseph Warren BRUCE, to Miss Margaret Maria CURTIN

DEATHS
28 Oct at Cape Town, John Peter, son of Mr. J. RIDGWAY, aged 10 years
28 Oct at Cape Town, Mr. J.P. POWELL , aged 56 years
01 Nov, Johannes Alexander, son of Mr. Wm. J. SMITH , aged 4 years
11 Oct at Cape Town, Mr. J. HEDENBURG aged 34 years
15 Oct at Cape Town, Margaret MILLER , aged 2 years
20 Oct at Cape Town, Jose RODRIQUEZ , aged 27 years
20 Oct at Cape Town, Jacob WATSON, aged 18 months
20 Oct at Cape Town, Maria KENNEDY, aged 4 months
24 Oct at Cape Town, Mr. Felix KEARNS, aged 25 years
25 Oct at Cape Town, Maria DE WIT, aged 3 years
25 Oct at Cape Town, Wm.R. KEYES aged 5 months
03 Nov at Cape Town, Charlotte Elizabeth, wife of Mr. Edward JONES, aged 22 years
19 Oct at Cape Town, Christina, daughter of Mrs. Emily PLUNKET, aged 3 years
22 Sep at Cape Town, Caroline M.T., wife of Mr. G.S. DEVOLLl, aged 18 years
07 Oct at Cape Town, Mr. Robert Turner, of New Brunswick, aged 25 years
09 Oct at Cape Town, Mr. Alex. CUMMING, aged 52 years
11 Oct at Cape Town, Mrs. Eliza LONG, aged 37 years.

EASTERN PROVINCE

His Excellency, in passing through Port Elizabeth on his way from the Sovereignty to Cape Town, laid the foundation stone of a handsome structure to be erected for the purpose of a Town Hall, Library and Athenaeum. The new Hospital has been completed during the month. It is an ornament to the town and cannot fail to prove a great blessing. The GreyInstitute School buildings are nearly completed.
An effort has been made to raise funds to erect a Sailor's Bethel, and also to open without loss of time, a Sailor's Home in this port.

Immigrants were anxiously looked for, only one vessel had arrived at Port Elizabeth up to the present time. The inhabitants were anxiously looking out for a second arrival.

The Graham's Town Journal publishes the following - A conservatory is being erected in the Botanical Gardens of Graham's Town, commemorative of the death of Col. FORDYCE, of the 74th Highlanders who was killed in the Waterkloof during the last war. It may appear somewhat singular to a distant reader to hear of a monumental conservatory, but the committee thought they might combine the utile et dulce in this way. The memorative is imparted by the coat of arms of the deceased on glass, by an inscription over the facade of the building and a marble bust is to be erected inside

NATAL

It is stated that some of the Free State Boers are turning their attention towards this colony and that several farms had changed hands in the upland districts. This, it was expected would lead to the introduction of sheep on a large scale.

The Natal Journal, which had been published for two years and was latterly edited by Dr.MANN F.R.A.S. has ceased to exist as a periodical. The Cape Monthly Magazine is now the only literary periodical in existence in South Africa. The Mercury republishes several articles from the Cape newspapers on the subject of the federation scheme proposed by Sir George GREY.

IVORY- A large quantity of ivory has come into Maritzburg during the last ten days, not less, with what is on the road, than 50,000lbs weight. We fear there will be severe losses on this unless the price recovers before it reaches England. - Mercury.

BIRTHS
On 10 Oct. Mrs. Alex. M'ARTHUR, of Durban, of a daughter
On 16 Oct, at Pietermaritzburg, Mrs. BLOCH, of a son
On 19 Oct, Mrs. PAYNE, of a son
On 20 Oct, Mrs. WILSON, of a daughter
On 06 Nov, at Durban, Mrs. D.M. BARNES,of a son

MARRIAGES
On the 20th Oct. at Durban, Hugh GILLESPIE Esq. to Marianne, youngest daughter
of the late D.S. CHURCHILL Esq. of Nottingham.
On the 14th Oct. at Durban, H.E. STAINBANK, Esq., to Eliza, daughter of R. MUNRO
On the 28th Sep, Mr. W. SMITH, to Martha Hannah, daughter of J. GILLETT, of New Germany.

31 January 1859

The scrutineers appointed to examine the votes given at the election for the Legislative Council have completed their work, and the Government Gazette has officially announced the names of the gentlemen who have been elected.
Eastern Province
Mr. Joseph CAWOOD
Mr. Charles POTE
Mr. John PATERSON
Mr. William SOUTHEY
Mr. Julius MOSENTHAL
Mr. Ludwig Johan Frederick VON MALTITZ
Mr. James Henry GREATHEAD

Western Province
Mr. Joseph BARRY
Mr. John STEIN
Mr. Petrus Emanuel ROUBAIX
Mr. Jan DE WET, LLD
Mr. Hercules Cross JARVIS
Mr. Johan Hendrik WICHT
Mr. Dirk Gysbert VAN BREDA
Mr. Francis William REITZ
Mr. Henry Thomas VIGNE
The last-named gentlemen consequently loses his seat, but having protested against the return of Mr. WICHT for bribery and corruption, an inquiry is likely to take place.

Owing to the subsidence of the small-pox, communication with the country districts was again freely opened and business had received a considerable stimulus. Property sales in all parts of the country show a favourable advance in the value of land and buildings. Farms which were originally sold for a “mere song”, had realized very considerable prices.

Capt. BEDINGFIELD R.N. who accompanied the Livingstone expedition to the Zambesi, returned to Cape Town by H.M. St Lyra a week or two ago and subsequently proceeded in the Sanspareil to England. It appears that some mutual misunderstanding of a trifling character between Captain BEDINGFIELD and the leader of the expedition was the occasion of his withdrawal from it.

The Royal Mail steamer Phoebe, belonging to the Union Company, arrived at Plymouth on Wednesday, the 26th instant, having made a very quick passage from the Cape where she left on the 22nd Dec. She brings the following passengers –
For St. Helena
Messrs. SCOTT and WESTON.
For Southampton
1st Class – Messrs. SALMOND,BIRKENRUTH, VENN, MANSERGH and RAWBONE
Captain and Mrs. KOLLING
Captain ISNARD
2nd Class – Mr.WIDDE and Miss WIDDE (2)
Mrs. M’CULLUM
Miss LAWLEY
Mr. KOCH
Rev. Canon JENKINS
Mr. G. WATKINS and boy
3rd Class – Mr. BROWN
Mr. RITCHIE

WESTERNPROVINCE

It is satisfactory to be assured that the small-pox has ceased to be epidemic in Cape Town. There were a few  sporadic cases of it to be met with here and there, but as a general epidemic it had run its full course.

Great dissatisfaction is expressed in the colony at the operations of the Immigration Commissioners in England.The last ship load of immigrants arrived at Table Bay upwards of three months ago, and the total number for the EasternProvince and the West together during the year had been only 1,621.

At a meeting of Green Point residents in connexion with the EnglishChurch, plans were submitted of the  proposed new chapel to be erected at Green Point. The design agreed upon is after the model of LittlemoreChurch  in Oxfordshire – a church in the early English style. Its erection here is estimated to cost £1,200. It would give sitting for 210.  Mr. G.W. PILKINGTON has offered to erect the building of the new TableMountain freestone and at a reasonable rate. No final conclusion, however, on the subject was arrived at. – Advertiser Sept. 25

THE RAILWAY – There is a rumour that the Cape Town terminus of the Cape Town and Wellington Railway is not  to come nearer the city than Fort Knokke.This is at least a mile from town and as might be expected it has caused a great deal of talk. One of the local prints announces that there will be a public demonstration. We find on inquiry of the best authorities, that the site for the terminus has not yet been agreed upon, but the contract of the company extends only from Wellington to Fort Knokke. The company we are told are anxious to come as near  the city as possible. If that is the case, merchants should insist upon the parade as the best site. The apartments  over the Cape Commercial Bank have been taken for engineers offices and the staff will commence to stake out  the line immediately.

THE REMOUNT AGENCY FOR INDIA– Colonel APPERLEY, the presiding officer of the Indian remount
agency, returned to the Cape by the steamer Athens. A great many horses have lately been purchased for India, and there are still plenty in the colony.

LOSS OF THE MADAGASCAR – The Cape and Natal mail steamer Madagascar was wrecked on the night of  the 5th Dec., off the south-east coast near the mouth of the River Beka, on her passage from East London to AlgoaBay. From the published accounts of the catastrophe, it appears that at six o’clock in the evening the vessel was computed to be six miles off the coast, at nine o’clock, five miles, and at ten, before the captain’s leaving deck, he ordered her to be kept still further seaward. The tops of the hills were visible, but a misty bank  hung over the land. At midnight, whilst the passengers were all in their berths, the steamer struck heavily upon a reef of rocks, on the edge of which she rode for twenty minutes, bumping and straining fearfully, and then got off into deep water. The forehold was immediately half filled, and the steamer was found to be sinking. Her boats were at once got out and provisioned and the captain, selecting a spot less rocky that the usual run of the coast, hoisted the spanker and ran the vessel on shore. On the occasion of the disaster, coolness and judgment were displayed by the master and officers of the vessel, willingly and ably seconded by the crew. No life was lost, but the passengers and all on board lost nearly everything, including their luggage. The officers and crew suffered a good deal of privation after landing, but this appears to have been unavoidable. The loss of the Madagascar will be a loss to the whole community.

MARRIAGES
On the 7th Dec, at Cape Town, Mr. W.J. BULKELEY, to Miss. Emma WORAKER

DEATHS
On the 13th Dec, at Cape Town, Mr. Thomas Nathaniel Isaac KNIPE aged 22 years
On the 14th Dec at Cape Town, James son of Mr. J. TAYLOR, aged 4 years
On the 15th Dec at Cape Town, Miss Charlotte Ann CLARKE, aged 19 years
On the 8th Dec at Cape Town, Mr. John GARDINER, aged 26 years
On the 20th Nov., Mrs. Caroline THORN, aged 77 years
On the 19th Nov at Cape Town, Mr. Alfred THOMAS, aged 33 years
On the 19th Nov at Cape Town, Alice Georgina, daughter of Mr. Isaac LINTER aged 7years 9 months
On the 21st Nov., Henry, son of Mr. Henry FRANKLIN, aged 2 years and 4 months
On the 21st Nov at Cape Town, Eleanor, wife of Mr. Lewis EVANS, aged 27 years
On the 22nd Nov, at Cape Town, H. M’Rea WATSON, Esq. aged 48 years
On 22nd Nov, at Cape Town, Isabella SAUNDERS, aged 17 years.

EASTERN PROVINCE

The accounts from this province are satisfactory on the whole, but great complaints are made of the remissness of the authorities and the Emigration Commissioners in not having taken measures to ensure a regular supply of emigrants. The following statement will show the number of immigrants who have arrived at Port Elizabeth since June last, the whole of whom were engaged immediately on arrival –
Assisted Passengers per Lady of the Lake and Meg Merrillies 7 men, 7 women and 2 children

Forwarded from Table Bay, ex Gipsey Bride
48 men, 6 women and 12 children

Aurifera , July 7th – 110 men, 54 women, 29 boys, 27 girls, 6 infants & 1 birth

Indian Queen, July 23rd, 157 men, 111 women, 59 boys, 53 girls and 20 infants & 3 births

The Wandraham had just arrived at East London with 341 German immigrants, of whom it is said twenty-seven families had been sent to the Fort Peddie German settlements

The disposal of Crown Lands in the division of Hope Town is rapidly progressing. No fewer than 424,000 morgen have been applied for by some forty-six farmers and their applications have been recommended by the Divisional Council and approved by the Government. They are called now to deposit immediately a sum of about £4,200 altogether to meet the expenses of survey, inspection, beacons etc. –Graff Reinet Herald

FASHION IN GRAHAM’S TOWN – What astonished me not a little was the extraordinary fuss made over people, even in middling circumstances, getting married. Every private carriage in the town is borrowed for the occasion and the coachman to boot, who is certain to figure in his best suit and his whipstick decorated with half an ell of narrow white ribbon. All parties invited to the ceremony expect a carriage and pair placed at their disposal. Of course the best turn-out is reserved for their conveyance home after the priest has tied the mystic knot, but in going it is mere chance. The fashion is for the bridegroom to go first and not unfrequently he has to endure a most intolerable penance of an hour and a half before all the friends are assembled. His hopes, however are somewhat freshened by the appearance of several young ladies, dressed to death, who are to officiate as bridesmaids and a numerous progeny of very small children dressed up and flounced like wax dolls. Last of all comes the bride elect, led slowly by her doting father, as though half repented and would fain be off the bargain – but its too late. All is at once bustle. The parson commences operations at once, the “I will” is pronounced – his work is soon accomplished – the clerk says Amen – the new made husband gives his wife a buss that runs through the building like a soft note of a bugle declaring his victory, and again the whole of the city carriages, buggies and hackneys are put in requisition to convey all concerned to a jolly good breakfast.

NATAL

We (Natal Mercury) are happy to hear very favourable reports of recent shipments of our sugars to the Cape. Of the parcel from Mr. Mack’s estate at Isipingo, the agents declare that if Natal can supply such sugar, the Mauritius sugar will be driven out of the CapeMarket.

An unusually large quantity, it is reported of ivory will be exported this year. The last steamer took
about 10,000lbs. and there are now ready for shipment or on the way down 60,000lbs more.
This will probably be chiefly shipped by the Early Morn and will of itself represent a value of £15,000, besides which wool is coming freely, so that the cargo of the Early Morn will largely exceed in value any cargo previously shipped from this colony.

BIRTHS
On the 6th Nov, at Durban, Mrs. A.M. BARNES, of a son
On the 1st Nov., at Pietermaritzburg, Mrs. VANDERPLANK, of a son

MARRIAGES
On the 3rd Nov., at Durban, Mr. Joseph RAPSON, to Miss Jane LELLO

DEATHS
On the 3rd Nov., at Durban, Thomas, son of Mr. T. DAVENPORT, aged 15 years
On the 22nd Nov., Robert, son of Mr. OSBORNE of Pietermaritzburg
On the 5th Dec, at Umlaas, Eliza, daughter of Captain F. MAXWELL, aged 14 years

THE LATE W.R.S. WILSON – Mr. W.R.S. WILSON, the subject of this memoir, was the son of
the late Dr. WILSON, a highly respected resident of Cape Town, who died about the year 1824. Mr.
WILSON came to Natal in the year 1841. He was early identified with this country, having assisted
the late Mr. John MEYER in the survey of the coast land between the rivers Umgeni and Tugela.
On the arrival of the British troops under Colonel Cloete, to take possession of this colony, he was
one of the first to return to the allegiance which he owed to his Queen and country. In the year 1844 he, in conjunction with another individual  turned his attention to the possibility of growing cotton in Natal and they succeeded so far as to thoroughly arouse the Government and inhabitants generally to the value of land in Natal. The authorities seeing that a worthless and expensive settlement was likely to become a thriving and important colony at once advanced the  upset price of land from 2s. to 4s. per acre. Capitalists began to turn their attention this way, emigration schemes were planned and European population flocked to our shores.

2 March 1859

The parliamentary elections were nearly all over, there are a few returns not in from one or two districts, but they will not materially alter the results. The elections in the country districts commenced on the 29th December and the elections in Grahams Town and Cape Town commenced on the 8th January. The most spirited contests were those of the Cape Division and Cape Town. In the country districts of the Western Province, the proceedings have been very quiet. The candidates returned as far as we can gather are-
Cape Town - THOMPSON, LOUW, SOLOMON and KOTZE. Cape Division - BLAKE and SILBERBAUER. Paarl - PROCTOR and HAUPT. Malmesbury - LEEDOLFF and DUCKITT Stellenbosch - BRANDT and BOSMAN Swellendam - FAIRBAIRN and WHITE. George - PRINCE and WALTERS. Beaufort West - MOLTENO and CHRISTIE. Worcester - MINNIK and LE SUEUR
In the Eastern Province, the elections have gone off without much excitement. In some places, there was difficulty in  obtaining members willing to accept the honour. The returns from the Eastern Province so far are- Graff Reinet - MEINTJES and ZIERVOGEL. Port Elizabeth - PHILIP. Grahams Town - No report Albany - CAWOOD and SLATER. Somerset - BOWKER and KRUGER. Uitenhage - BILLINGHAM and KROG. Albert - KRUGER and HOPLEY. Cradock - SCANLEN and CALDECOTT.
As no important political question hinged on the elections, the new House of Assembly will comprise a fair representation of the commercial, agricultural and other interests of the colony.

Every arrangement is now in progress for the immediate commencement of the new line of railway from Cape Town to Wellington and as the new Colonial Civil Engineer had arrived it is expected that the public works which had hitherto been at a stand still will be now proceeded with.

The Union Steam Ship Companys steamer Athens arrived at Plymouth on Sunday the 27th ult. from Table Bay, which she left on the 22nd Jan. She brings the monthly mails and a valuable cargo comprising wool, wine, skins and miscellaneous articles and the following passengers-
Cabin - Mr MURRAY
Miss KIMBLE
Miss POWELL
Mrs HEETS, four children and servant
Miss HANBURY
Mrs HOPE, three children and servant
Mr DUTHIE
Mr HOPE
Mr & Mrs BABBS
Mr VINCENT
Mrs FISHER, two children and servant
Miss GREAVES
2nd class-
Mr Pyle,
Miss SMITH
Mr KLUPPEL
Mr & Mrs HARRIES and two children

The AURIFERA, of 436 tons, Capt. John Moon sailed for Table Bay, Cape of Good Hope on the  24th Feb. with 235 emigrants under charge of Surgeon- Superinttendent  Chas. Wm. Kitching. These emigrants were selected by the Hon. Wm. Field, Emigration Comminssioner for the Cape of Good Hope.
The following is a summary of the emigrants - English and Irish
Married couples 21 males  21 females; Single Adults  28 males 33 females;  Children (1 to 12)  29 males    24 females; Infants  2 males   3 females
Germans
Adults 27 males 23 females;  Children (1 to 12)  13 males 9 females;  Infants  1 male  1 femaleThe Germans were chiefly vine dressers and wine makers.

The NEW GREAT BRITAIN is appointed to embark emigrants at Plymouth on the 14th inst.

Messrs. T & C Nichols have despatched the following vessel during the last month.
The KAHLAMBO on the 2nd ult for Port Natal with a full cargo of manufactured goods and the following passengers in the cabin - Mr & Miss ACUTT Mr. H. ACUTT Mr. DALMAINE and family Mr & Mrs ISABEL and family In the steerage - Messrs. SMITH, DARBY, DRAPER, TAYLOR, WILLIS, ROTH,MARGUENTE, C. DALMAINE, SHARP, MR. CADAM, DELWILL, BELLIS and Mrs SMITH and Miss DELL.

WESTERN PROVINCE

The committee of the FINE ARTS EXHIBITION awarded prizes to the several competitors. The following was the result- Mr. T.W. BOWLER - for the best landscape from nature Mr. W.T. SMITH for the best portrait from nature Miss GIRD for the best group of flowers from nature Mr. W. CAIRNCROSS jun for the best original design for a villa Mr. C. Essex for the best medallion portrait Mrs. ASTON for the best photographic portrait Mr. F. YORK special photographic portrait Mr W.F. CURTIS, Vice Principal of the Diocesan Collegiate School, landscape
Students
Mrs. WOEKE for the best copy of figure
Miss ANDERSON for the best landscape
The prizes will consist of handsomely bound books on art, which will be ordered from England by the first opportunity. A special prize was awarded to Mr.York for his photographic portrait of the Governor, the committee holding that any portrait not having been in the Exhibition at the opening was not eligible for competition.

Wellington - The preliminary operations connected with the laying of the railway from this village to Cape Town appear to have much benefited the proprietors of lands in that neighbourhood for, last week a building situate near the market place, which was bought not long ago for 700l was sold at public auction for about 1,600l. Captain Holmes of Cape Town was the purchaser.

THE RAILWAYS - At the meeting of the Railway Company a real deal of anxiety was shown to secure a large number of colonial share holders in the concern as a proof to the London Board of the confidence felt by the colonists in the success of the enterprise.To our mind, this is a matter of very small consequence. The number of shareholders enrolled already is very considerable, but even if there had not been one, the evidence of confidence of the community in the success of the railway would still remain as clear and convincing as anything of the kind could be. Every landholder in the divisions of the Cape, Stellenbosch and the Paarl, has been a shareholder in the concern from the very day the Railway Act became law.
They are all of them pledged for the sub-guarantee and they would not have readily saddled themselves and their successors for ninety years to come with an annual liability of 15000l if they did not feel tolerably well assured of the prospects of their bargain. We are glad to understand that the question of the terminus is all but finally settled. The line will in all probability be extended from Fort Knokke through the ordnance yard at the Castle and along the northern edge of the Grand Parade. This will bring the terminus for passengers into the very heart of the city. Convenient stations for heavy goods can be established either at the Town Market or any other more suitable spot outside.

THE EPIDEMIC AND THE MEDICAL PROFESSION - We perceive that the medical gentlemen of Cape Town have, each of them, received from the municipality a parchment address, sealed with the municipal seal and bound with blue ribbon, as an acknowledgement of the noble and disinterested efforts made by them to alleviate the sufferings of their poor and afflicted fellow citizens during the recent visitation of the small-pox. All honour to the medical men of Cape Town, say, we, and we hope they will appreciate their bits of parchment at their proper value, but we are not the less of opinion that if the municipality were as ready with good works as they are with addresses, the doctors of Cape Town would had no occasion show how ready they are, in the true spirit of their profession to sacrifice themselves for the good of their fellow creatures. Nor can we think so ill of them as to believe, as we are told that they are willing to allow the Commissioners to brings their services to the notice of the Government, with a view to their being rewarded. But we by no means wish it to be inferred from this remark that our medical men require or should have no reward beyond that which the strict performance of his duty brings to every man, we only object to the means proposed towards a desirable end. After these prefatory remarks  and after conveying with unfeigned gratitude, our own small tribute of praise to the medical men of Cape Town although we did not personally require their services, they will think us rather unreasonable when we say that we are not yet satisfied with what they have done gratuitously for our poor, and call upon them now to do yet a little more for the public weal.

DIOCESAN COLLEGIATE SCHOOL -The second annual public prize day of the Diocesan Collegiate School was held on Thursday, the 16th ult. The examination of the senior boys for the mathematical scholarship was conducted in the previous week by the Rev. W.E. BEBB M.A. of St Johns College, Cambridge who at the same time carried out an examination of the junior boys in arithmetical. The scholarship was awarded by him to HODGES (son of the Chief Justice) whilst the arithmetical prizes were assigned to STEIN and SOREY. The classical examination was conducted by the Dean of Cape Town and Henry RUDD and the prizes were awarded as follows - Classics - first class - CARLISLE -second class BELL and BLAKE - third class DAVIDSON - fourth class -RYNEVELD - fifth class - CRIGHTON.
The proceedings of the prize day began with the ordinary shortened chapel service followed by a sermon and an offertory for the college chapel, after which the prizes were distributed in the school room by his Excellency Sir George Grey. The whole party of the boys and their friends then adjourned to the verandah of the Principals house where lunch was prepared and when this was over and the toasts had been drunk, the school broke up.

EASTERN PROVINCE

CAPE GOOSEBERRY - Mr. P. FERREIRA of Kragakamma has succeeded in cultivating the Cape gooseberry and to such perfection has he brought it as nearly equal the English gooseberry in size, whilst for flavour it infinitely surpasses it. A specimen of the above has been left at our office. It is one inch and a half in circumference and weighs one ounce. - Port Elizabeth Mercury.

GREY INSTITUTE - We mentioned that a teacher had been appointed to conduct the preparatory school connected with this foundation at a salary of 150l a year and a fee of 1l from each pupil. We are enabled to announce that the school will be opened by Mr John. H. WEBB on the 1st February next in one of the wings of the new building for the present where he will be ready to receive all children five years old and upwards. The charges are two guineas payable in advance. We are sorry to say that in consequence of the head master, Mr MACLEISH not being able to enter on his duties at present the school will not be opened until April next. We are enabled to announce that a splendid coat of arms has arrived from England in the Alexandrina, cut out of Portland stone and it is intended to place it on the tower of the Grey Institute. The entire cost of this building is said to be 3,100l.

NATAL

The elections for the new Council were about to take place and the following candidates were spoken of - Mr MILLAR will be again invited for D'Urban and will stand. Mr. PINSENT has offered himself. For the country,

Mr KINGHURST and Captain PROUDFOOT are spoken of. For Victoria the late member Dr. JOHNSTON will be returned. For Maritzburg city, the late members Messrs. HENDERSON and BERGTHEIL stand and Messrs. ARCHBELL and BUCHANAN.

The commerce of the colony is in a sound and healthy state, and business generally is active and flourishing.

The Board of Education who were instructed to prepare and report upon a plan of education for the colony had submitted their report, but public opinion was divided upon the question in consequence of the differences about the introduction of the religious elements in school.

Arrowroot - it forms already an important item of our export trade and the quality of Natal arrowroot is now so firmly established that it ranks next to Bermuda in the English market. With due care in the manufacture and packing, it will eventually rival that most esteemed description and in real quality it is undoubtedly entitiled to. The cultivation of this root is extending rapidly throughout the coast districts, and it has been grown successfully near Maritzburg, sixty miles from the sea.
Coffee - being a product of slower yield, does not present such marked features of progress but one or two plantations have this year produced fair commercial results and the quality and flavour of the berry have been not only tested in the colony, but most favourably reported on by London brokers.
In the counties of D Urban and Victoria, several mills with water power have been erected or are in course fo erection, to be applied to various purposes in the preparation of human food or the manufacture of commercial staples. But no enterprise has advanced so rapidly during the past year as that of sheep farming.

Adverts

Natal Bank - General Manager C. BEHRENS - Pietermaritzburg

Cape of Good Hope Agricultural Society - Committee Chairman  - P.B. BORCHERDS Hon R.W. RAWSON Hon W. PORTER J.C. GIE T.B. BAYLEY E. LANDSBERG J.R. MARQUARD C. MANUAL J.H. MUNNIK E.J. JERRAM S.V. VAN REENEN R.H. ARDERNE R. HARE

31 March 1859

It is satisfactory to be able to state that the affairs of the colony have never been in a more healthy or prosperous state, both as regards its social and commercial relations.

The small-pox has almost entirely disappeared from the Western districts, in the Eastern Province it has assumed a very slight form.The country buyers being now in no fear of coming up to town, they are pouring in from all parts, and the excitement of the election having passed off, everything appears to have received a fresh impetus, and business of every kind is consequently exceedingly brisk.

Western Province
ROAD WORKS
The road department has certainly been by no means inactive during the last six months, and when compared with other branches of the Executive, the amount of work it has accomplished seems absolutely wonderful. Nor can our Eastern Province friends complain that their interests have been neglected by it. Roads and bridges have been and are now in progress there to an extent which ought in reason to convince Mr. CLOUGH himself that  after all a Table Mountain Government may possibly, even though it may be on rare occasions, do some good. Of the road improvements executed for the Eastern Province during the past six months. we have first the great trunk road between Sundays River and Grahams Town, which notwithstanding the heavy traffic which passes over it, is now in as admirable repair as the Wynberg road itself. There is the new road in progress from Ecca Heights to Breakfast Valley on the main line between Grahams Town and King Williamstown. Roads - north-south, east and west are also being made in the western districts and before long, magnificent ways to the Knysna on the one side, and Clanwilliam on the other will be open to the public. All the civil engineers, draughtsmen and others who recently came out from England, expecting employment on the railway, have been taken up by the Colonial Civil Engineer for the super-intending of public works upcountry.

Docks for the refuge and repairing of distressed ships, it had been decided should be made forthwith at the Cape. Merchants in Cape Town have united with the inhabitants of Simons Town to construct docks in the latter place at an estimated cost of 25,000L. The shares were at once taken.

It is expected that a patent slip will be laid down and opened in Table Bay before the close of the year. It will be sufficient to take on a ship of about 1,800 or 2,000 tons.

EMIGRATION

Inquiries which have been made respecting the position and prospects of the immigrants already settled fully, show that where they have been industrious and temperate in their habits, they have met with success and are now prosperous. The following facts, we learn from the same paper. have been gathered by the superintendent of the local immigration depot -
Baker - Upon arrival at Cape, worked a few days as journeyman, afterwards opened the City Bakery, with assistance of some gentlemen in town. Has a fair custom and has cleared upwards of 30l besides a horse and cart. He is well satisfied with the change he has made by coming to this country.
Clerk - Has constant employment and at present receives equal to 2l 10s. per week and is perfectly satisfied with his prospects in the colony. Has sent for some of his friends at home to emigrate to this country.
Cabinetmakers - These men have constant employment at piece work and make on an average 7s. per diem. They are very well satisfied (except one) with the wages they make and the country.
Storeman - Has constant employment and receiving about 70l rations and quarters per annum.
Saddler- Has constant employment at 6s. 6d. per diem and is pleased with the country.
Constable -Is in constant employment with a salary of 50l and 25l for a horse per annum and is much satisfied with the country.
Shoemaker - Has worked as a journeyman for a length of time since his arrival and made 7s. per diem and has  commenced business in the trade himself and is doing moderately well.
French Polisher - In business for himself. Keeps two or three men, has plenty of work.
Millwright - Constant employment in making wheelbarrows and is doing good business.

BIRTHS
On the 25th January at Kuyls River, the wife of Mr. T.K. SINCLAIR , of a son

MARRIAGES
On the 5th January at Cape Town, Mr George Frederick STOKES(Jnr) to Miss Mary Jane Cecil FELL On the 19th January at Cape Town, Henry HUTCHINSON (jun) to Mrs Petronella GEOGHEGAN On the 31st January at Cape Town, Mr Thomas John LEE, to Miss Sarah Catherine WATNEY On the 1st February, Mr. James Thomas Hogarth LONG, to Miss Hannah Chaplelow VAWSER.
On the 18th January at Cape Town, Mr Redmond BARRY, to Mary Ann, eldest daughter of Mr. John Sumner of Tutnell, Worcestershire, England

DEATHS
On the 20th January, at Riversdale, Anne Elizabeth, daughter of Mr. R. ROBERTS. On the 25th January, at Cape Town, Richard Loftus TOLSTOY, the infant son of Alfred W. COLDE. aged 5 months On the 29 January at Plettenbergs Bay, John Archibald SINCLAIR On the 31st January, Mr James CORMICK, a native of Kirkwell aged 32 years On the 6th February at Cape Town, Charles Emerson, son of Mr Willima James SMITH, aged 2 years On the 15th January at Cape Town, Herbert Maurice, son of Mr. Thomas BOWE,aged 16 days On the 16th January at Cape Town, Ellen Louisa, daughter of  M.R. ROBINSON aged 12 months On the 18th January at Cape Town, Mr John HORTON, native of  England, aged 26 years On the 7th February at Cape Town, Mr James GRIFFITHS,aged 50 years On the 14th February, Sarah, wife of Captain George Turnbull BROWN, on board the Merchantman in Table Bay, aged 42 years On the 16th February at Vredenhag, Jacob Alcides GADOLIN,

EASTERN PROVINCE

The fifth vessel with immigrants, the Vocalist, anchored in Algoa Bay on Sunday the 23rd Jan, after a pleasant passage of 68 days from Liverpool. The proceedings in England have given great dissatisfaction and the colonial press seems unanimous in calling for some inquiry that may tend to reform. Great complaints are made of the long delay that occurred between the dispatch of the Edward Oliver and the Vocalist ( 23 weeks) and that while the Commissioners have been traveling into obscure parts of the provinces in search of a few immigrants, the Central Office in London has been left unattended, while numerous applicants presented themselves daily, eager to procure information and free passage to the Cape.
To the newly arrived immigrants as well as to those who may be intending to settle in this colony, we cannot give better advice than the following - We would warn them of two temptations, at least, which will beset their path. The first and most strongly to be guarded against is the taste for drink. In this colony, spirits and wine of colonial manufacture are to be had at a very low rate compared with that of similar articles in Great Britain. The heat of the climate inducing thirst - the ease with which money may be earned and the comparative cheapness of spirits and wine - all combine to make this a great temptation in the path of the working man, but it is one which if not firmly resisted, must end in his ruin. Hundreds have died miserably in this colony from the abuse of ardent spirits and hundreds are still dragging on a wretched existence, buoyed up for a time by the daily, perhaps hourly dram, which ends finally by destroying health and constitution, if not life itself. There is no man so utterly miserable in this colony as the drunkard. The second and minor danger is a claim for excessive wages.

One of the emigrants per Aurifera named John WATSON, a native of Lanarkshire, who was known in Graff Reinet for a steady industrious man, has committed suicide by cutting his throat with a razor. There is a suspicion that the poor fellow may have received a sun-stroke during the hot weather, as he was observed suddenly to change in his habits and showed unmistakable signs of derangement for some weeks prior to the act. Fortunately, he leaves no widow or family to suffer calamity entailed by his misfortunes. He was most kindly treaded by the immigrants during his affliction, especially by the family of Mr. ROSS, in whose house he resided up to the last/

DEATHS
On the 13th January, at Port Elizabeth, Florence Carrington, youngest daughter of Mr Alfred OGILVIE On the 15th January at Port Elizabeth, the infant son of Mr. John W. CALLAGHAN On the 21st January, at Port Elizabeth, Caroline Susanna Josephine, youngest daughter of Mr Heugh

NATAL

In ecclesiastical matters there are a few incidents to record. Some months ago, the Rev. C. SPENSLEY, an able Wesleyan minister, who for five years had laboured in the colony, was compelled by ill-health to return to England. New and spacious Wesleyan Chapels have been erected at Durban and Maritzburg, another Wesleyan minister, the Rev. G. BLENCOE, has recently arrived. The new Dutch Reformed Church at Maritzburg is also an event accomplished within a year, but we have to lament that its able and faithful pastor, the Rev.Dr. FAURE, is at present labouring under a distressing and dangerous malady. A second minister of the same church, the Rev. Mr . Huett, who is very highly spoken of, has been labouring for some months in the upper districts of the colony.
The Primitive Methodists also, at their late conference in England resolved upon establish a mission at Natal/ The Congregational Chapel at Durban, under the ministry of the Rev. Mr. Jeffreys, has already become to small for the accommodation of the congregation and a gallery is about to be added

BIRTHS
On the 4th January, at Durban, Mrs A. MAYTHAM, of a son On the 8th January the wife of W. PALMER  Esq. of Durban, of a daughter On the 15th January at Pietermaritzburg, the Hon. Mrs D. ERSKINE, of a son On the 18th January at Pietermaritzburg, Mrs. C.M. ALDRIDGE, of a daughter On the 20th January at Cramend, Mrs W. MACKENZIE, of a son On the 24th January at Pietermaritzburg, Mrs. P. M'CHRYSTAL, of a son On the 15th January, at Durban, Mrs. T.M. LEDSON, of a son.

DEATHS
On the 8th January, at Berea, Harriet, infant daughter of Mr DUPONT.
On the 14th January, at Durban, Isabel Eleanor, infant daughter of Mr W.H. SAVORY On the 5th January at Colenso, Katherine Elizabeth, daughter of John MACFARLANE On the 7th January, at Pietermaritzburg, Walter H.M. infant son of Mr. J.P. STEELE

POST OFFICE GEOGRAPHY AND THE COLONIES
Some newspapers were lately returned to the sender stamped - imperfectly addressed - and which bore the following directions in type- Swellendam, C.G.H. and Cradock, C.G.H.. The initials G.G.H. were too magical for the Post office authorities. That we may excuse, but what will the dignitaries of the ancient town of Swellendam say to the fact that their town, the capital of a district, is unknown in a Government office at home, and likewise those of Cradock?. If the paper had been addressed Swellendam simply, and there had been nothing to indicate the sender, it would never have reached its destination, but have been destroyed in the Post Office

4 May 1859

The Union Companys steam ship Colt arrived at Plymouth on Saturday the 30th ult. from Table Bay which she left on the 23rd March. She brings the usual monthly mails and the following passengers and cargo.

Cabin - Mr, Mrs and Miss CHRISTIE
Mrs HEARBDED
The Lord Bishop of Grahams Town the Rev Mr. H.B. SMITH Rev. Mr. TAYLOR Rev. Mr. JACKSON Mr FINDLAY Capt. THOMPSON Dr. Arthur Mr. LINDSAY Steerage - John TREUBERT

The following is a list of passengers by the Royal Mail steamship Dane, which will sail from Plymouth for Table Bay on the 5th instant- Mr & Mrs WILLIAMS, members of Wesleyan mission Miss GLOVER Mrs WILTSHIRE and servant Mr PAULING - Cape Town Railway Company Mr F.J. MACKENZIE Mr WILTSHIRE, Mr W.H. EGAN Mr. J. LIBBY Mr. J. MASON Mr. NEWMAN Mr. GLOVER

The Early Morn has arrived from Port Natal bringing a most valuable cargo of ivory and arrowroot, with the following cabin passengers Mr & Mrs BAKER and 4 children Mr & Mrs SLATER Mrs HALL and child Mr & Mrs GUY Mr LESLIE

The Bride, chartered by the Emigration Commissioners, sailed on the 15th inst. from Southampton for Table Bay with 257 emigrants selected by the Hon. Mr FIELD, Emigration Commissioner for the Cape of Good Hope. The emigrants consisted of 49 married couples, 44 single male adults, 24 female adults, 40 male children, 41 female children and 10 infants.

On Monday last the embarkation of emigrants on board the ship Schah Jehan, bound from Southampton to Algoa Bay, was completed. They number 288 souls and include 50 farm labourers, 40 female domestics, 15 carpenters and joiners, 10 shoemakers and forty other artisans of various trades

Mr Henry WYETT has been appointed agent for Lloyds at East London, Cape of Good Hope.

WESTERN PROVINCE

The event claiming prior notice is, of course, the opening of the second Parliament of the Cape of Good Hope by Governor Sir George GREY.

The turning of the first sod of the first railway in South Africa by his Excellency the Governor is fixed for the 31st of this month, the day after the general muster of all the volunteer corps of the Western Province. The great event, and in its results the most important the Cape has yet witnessed, is to be celebrated  by a general illumination and other rejoicings.

Mr. E.L. LAYARD, the curator of the South African Museum, has published the following interesting report of the progress of this institution- The principle donations received since our last report have been a collection of fossils, from Mr.A.G. BAIN, comprising many valuable and interesting specimens, but which owing to our want of accommodation, have not yet been displayed. A very fine pair of Nakon skims from the neighbourhood of Lake Ngami, presented by the Messrs. CHAPMAN. This is a very valuable addition to our collection, and we believe no museum other than our own possesses the animal. The skin sent some time back by Mr. WILSONproved on trial to be as that gentleman feared, unmountable.
Cap. MURISON, recently returned from Australia, has not been unmindful of us during his absence, but has brought with him three specimens of the flying opossums of that most interesting region.
A collection of ancient Greek and Roman silver coins, presented by Captain EUSTACE. It may well be mentioned here that for a time the coins have been withdrawn from exhibition, the case allotted to them being constructed on a slope, the constant traffic to and fro on the floor caused them to slide to the bottom and to run one on another, and to be ever in disorder. A letter has been dispatched to our cabinet maker in London, requesting information on the price and description of cabinet that is suited for a numismatical collection.
From Mr. ARNOTT, of Colesberg, Mr FLETCHER, surveying on the Olifants River, Mr. CAIRNCROSS of Swellendam, and several others, collections of birds and animals have been received but our space is so limited that we cannot do more than just allude to them and thank them as well as other friends. For the same reason, we can only just inform our subscribers that the building is progressing most satisfactorily and that the roof has been commenced.

IMPROVEMENTS TO SHOP FRONTS- Several shopkeepers have recently made a great improvement to their shop fronts by the introduction of plate glass windows. The side of Messrs. CRIGHTON and VERRY's saddlery and harness establishment in Plein Street which has been fitted up in this manner, looks very neat. Mr. CAIRNCROSS, confectioner and Mr. TAYLOR, clothier of Adderley street are also having their windows fitted with plate glass and patent shutters, and when the work is completed it will much improve the appearance of their shops. Now that this description of glass may be obtained at a moderate price, it is to be hoped many more will follow their example, as plate glass shows goods to much better advantage than the common kind.

THE TABLE BAY AND SIMONS TOWN BREAKWATERS -People especially mercantile people in Cape Town, are getting uneasy about the prospects of having a breakwater in Table Bay. The merchants have met at the Commercial Exchange and petitioned the Governor to tell them what has been done, but his Excellency refuses. He says he is going to reserve that delicious morsel for the Parliament. The merchants at least several of them say that he has got nothing worth telling or he would not be so backward in giving it to them. Our colonial civil engineer, it was resolved long ago, could not be expected to attend to all his other duties and this extensive work at the same time, so we were informed that another engineer, a regular crack hand, had been engaged and that convicts were to be employed on the work. Convict barracks were commenced and tramways laid down. All at once the whole of this was smashed. Everything was to be set aside until the coming man was come, but he  has not yet made his appearance and whether he ever will do so is now very questionable.

MELANCHOLY ACCIDENT IN TABLE BAY -  A very melancholy accident attended with the loss of two lives, occurred on Saturday afternoon, about half past four o'clock in Table Bay. The ship Orient, from Adelaide had been announced to sail for London at twelve o'clock, but as is often the case, several passengers postponed going on board beyond that hour. Amongst others who delayed their departure were Mr. & Mrs. A. DELF with  their child. It was three o'clock when they left the jetty. They were accompanied by Mr. CUNNINGHAM of the Wellington Hotel. Mr William CURTIS aged 23 and John WYLDE (Mrs LUTTERELL'S brother) 11 years old. Before they got to the Orient, she was under weigh, but she was brought to and Mr & Mrs Delf with the child got safely on board. Unfortunately, through mismanagement, the mast of the boat caught in the ships bunker and the result was, the boat filled and went down immediately. CURTIS and WYLDE went down her and were never seen again.  Mr CUNNINGHAM kept himself afloat  until the ship brought to, lowered a boat and rescued him, he was in the water nearly half an hour and when picked up was almost exhausted.

BIRTHS
Feb 24, at Clanwilliam, Mrs.R.G. WOLFE, of a daughter; March 2, at Mossel Bay, Mrs. S. MELVILLE, of a son

MARRIAGES
Feb 14, at George Town, Joseph James, third son of Thomas BARRY, to Susan Maria, fifth daughter of J.B.A. BLAND; March 8, at Fort Beaufort, Tobias Johannes, son of the late Rev. HEROLD, of Stellenbosch, to Johanna Marthina, second daughter of T. BARRY; March 9, at Fort Beaufort, James son of the late William DUNN, to Elizabeth Helena, youngest daughter of Mr. GUNTER; Feb 21, at Cape Town, Mr. J.A. LUND, to Miss Emily TERRY; Feb 21 at Cape Town, Mr. T. C. FENTON, to Miss Rosa Elizabeth ABRAHAMS; March 1, at Swart River, William Wallace second son of Mr. W. ROOME, of Cape Town to Hemina, second daughter of S.BOTHA of Deep River

DEATHS
Feb 27, at Rondebosch, Myra Elizabeth, daughter of the late L.H. TWENTYMAN, age 24 years; March 4, at Cape Town, Mr. G. HONEYBUN, aged 43 years; March 6, at Cape Town, Robert KNOX of T.C.D. Registrar of the Court of Mixed Commission and for 19 years Editor of the London Morning Herald, aged 51 years; March 1, at Cape Town, Catherine, wife of Mr. W.H. MARTIN, aged 54 years.

EASTERN PROVINCE

Grahams Town has got Mr Hoggar as its city engineer, and a due economy and scientic conduct of its municipal works may be expected. Water supply is with us the great desideratum. The municipality have resolved to erect a town clock on the tower of St. George s Cathedral, provided the vestry will raise and prepare the structure for its reception. The city has no acknowledged time teller, except a solitary gun, fired from the artillery ground at nine a.m.

The district of Queenstown has been visited by an extraordinary storm, in which hailstones fell one pound in weight, with such force as to break through corrugated iron roofs. A number of sheep were killed.

Graaff Reinet has been complaining of monetary pressure, but still it gives signs of prosperity and advancement. A ten horse power steam mill has just been erected there.

The colony very much wants a large and properly classified Lunatic Asylum where something beyond the mere safe keeping of the unhappy inmates may be organised.

GRAAF REINET COLLEGE - The Finance Committee of this institute presented their report to a meeting of the subscribers to the College Fund, held in the Court room on Monday evening last. It is much to be regretted that Messrs. MEINTJES and ZIERVOGEL should have allowed any business to prevent them from being present at such an important time as the support of our local members is so essential to the successful accomplishment of the undertaking..
A proposal was carried appointing the Rev. A. MURRAY,  S.J. MEINTJES, Esq. and H.H. CLOETE, or any two of them to visit the neighbouring towns to make known the objects of the proposed college and receive subscriptions.

BIRTHS
Feb 16 at Queenstown, Mrs. H.C. BELL, of a son; Mar 16, Mrs John Short, of a daughter; Feb 23, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs. J. BALLANTINE, of a son; Mar 6, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs. J. EDWARDS, of a daughter

MARRIAGE
Feb 16, at Grahams Town, Mr. T. HUMPHREY to Mary, widow of the late Mr. W. PIKE

DEATHS
Feb 15, at Hanckey, the Rev. J. VAN DER KEMP READ, Missionary Society, youngest son of the late Rev. James READ, aged 27 years; March 1, at Graaf Reinet, Susanna, the beloved eldest daughter of  A. BERRANGE, Esq, aged 24 years; Feb. 18 at Port Elizabeth, Captain PECHELL, Paymaster H.M. 85th Regiment; Mar 5, at Sidbury, William, only son of Mr. W.J. MACKRILL of Grahams Town; Mar 8, at Grahams Town, J BOUTFLOWER, Assistant Surgeon, Cape Mounted Rifles.

NATAL

The elections of the Legislative Council had not yet been decided. The results will however, be known by the next mail. The candidates are Durban Borough - Messrs. MILLER, GOODRICKE, and HURTLEY Durban County - Messrs. KINGHURST and A. COQUI Victoria County - Messrs. H. MILNER and Dr. JOHNSTONE Pietermaritzburg  Borough - Messrs. BERGTHEIL and HENDERSON Pietermaritzburg County - Messrs. ARBUTHNOT and MORELAND Umvote County - Messrs. VAN DER PLANK and ARCHBELL Weenen County - Mr. W. MACFARLANE Klip River County - Messrs. BESTER, CANVIN, GREGORY, and MELLISH

The railway is being prosecuted with vigour. Directors and secretaries have been chosen and the deposit of 50s. per share has been paid with promptitude, so that funds may be sent for the requisite plans. The Government have given their consent to the possession of  the land.

The Rev. GROUT's Zulu Grammar is about to be printed. The work has cost its esteemed author a vast amount of labour and research and it will certainly be the standard grammar of the Zulu language. Considering the importance of a right understanding of that tongue to a sound and judicious system of treatment and rule over the large mass of natives in Natal, as well as to safe relations with the Zulu nation beyond our borders, this work ought to be supported by all persons who have made this colony the home for themselves and their families. As the price will be only ten shillings, we hope many of our readers will come forward and swell the as yet inadequate subscription list.

BIRTHS
Feb 28, at Maritzburg, Mrs.G.H. WATHEN, of a daughter; Feb 27, at Pietermaritzburg, Mrs. J.L. DOHNE, of a son; March 1, at George Town, Mrs. W. BENNETT, of a son; Feb 24, at Umgeni, Mrs. R. SURTEES, of a daughter; Feb 25, at Durban, Mrs. E.W. TINLEY, of a son

DEATHS
Feb 27, at Pietermaritzburg, Mrs. S. READ aged 30 years; March 5, William B, second son of Mr. B. BALCOMB of Chakas Kraal, aged 13 years.

4 June 1859

The Colonial Parliament is in session. The principal questions it had been discussing are the colonial marriage law, insolvency law, and Crown lands, the enactment of a bribery law, provision for a general census, and a protest against the prerogative of the Crown to appoint directly the officers of the Government.

The first sod of the railway was turned by the Governor on the 31st March. The day was rainy, but thousands of the population were present from all the surrounding country. The works are in progress. Mr PICKERING, the contractor, had arrived, and sends home this month for three hundred navvies, to be brought our partly at his expense and partly at that of the immigration scheme. Mr. ANDREWS, the engineer for the breakwater, and Mr SMITH, the agent for the contractor, have both arrived by the Phoebe. They have gone out now merely on a visit of inspection and will return by the May steamer, or the June one at furthest.

There still exists a great demand for labour in the colony. The two thousand immigrants (says the Cape Mail) who have arrived under the present scheme have rather increased than satisfied the demand for almost every description of labour, and if an equal number or twice as many arrive this year, they will find little difficulty in securing good wages and good prospects, for besides the want of steady and experienced agricultural servants, domestic servants, mechanics and artisans, we shall require for public works now in progress or about to commence, many hundreds, by and by some thousands of excavators or navvies, masons, bricklayers, carpenters, blacksmiths and the innumerable nondescripts that form a part of every busy hive of working men.

The Union Company s steam ship Celt will sail from Devonport on Tuesday the 7th inst. with the mails for the Cape and Natal. The Celt will take out the following passengers - Miss FREY Miss COLE Misses ROGERS (2) Mr and Mrs W.S. JONES Mr SEURIA Mr PRINCE Mr and Mrs ARMITAGE and children (2) and servant Mr ELLINGER

The Royal Mail steam ship Norman arrived at Plymouth on the 1st instant from Table Bay, which she left on the 21st April with the following passengers - Mr and Mrs DASTRE Mr ADCOCK Mr MARSH Miss CAWOOD Mrs CHAMBERLAINE Mr FORDRED Mr TRUTER Mr SERRURIER Mr and Mrs JOSEPH and three Misses Joseph and Master Joseph Masters PERKINS (2) Mr. WOLLASTON Mr BENJAMIN Mrs and two Misses HERTZOG Mr KOCK Mr BOTHA Captain and Mrs SHERWELL Miss NAPIER Mr and Mrs CANTOR and two children CAPTAIN and Mrs ADAMS (late of the wrecked ship Briseis) Mr JAMES Mr BROWN Mr STRATH Mr PRICE

The Burkington 676 tons, Captain Victor Howes, sailed from Southampton on Monday, the 30 ult. for Table Bay, Cape of Good Hope with 267 emigrants, under charge of Surgeon Superintendent Samuel Leonard Crarie M.D.

The Coldstream sails from Plymouth on Sunday morning for Algoa Bay, with about 230 adult emigrant passengers of various classes.
Emigration to the Cape is now taking an active course. A large number of suitable Scotch emigrants have been obtained and will shortly be ready to proceed.

The Early Morn sailed from the Downs on the 14th ult. for Port Natal with a full cargo and the undermentioned passengers - Mr and Mrs EASTWOOD and son Mr and Mrs WATKINS Mr ESCOMBE Mr G SMITH Mr ATKINSON Mr G ATKINSON Mr ELLGIE Miss ATKINSON

WESTERN PROVINCE

First and foremost as you will anticipate is the turning of the sod of the first railway in South Africa. The day previous had been signalised by the review of the Volunteer Corps of the Western Province in the Camp Ground by his Excellency the Governor. The day was fine, and the concourse, for the Cape, immense. Upwards of 6,000 people, in carriages of every description, were present and the Rondebosch road presented not a bad miniature of a Derby day.
The preparations that had been made for the great event which was to come off on the day following were on a scale commensurate with the importance of the occasion, and the greatest disappointment was felt when the day was ushered in by unusually wet and stormy weather. Thousands of persons from Cape Town and its neighbourhood, and many from a considerable distance, were present, in spite of wind and weather, to witness the novel and interesting ceremony. In a pouring rain that almost drowned the few words that his Excellency spoke on arriving at the spot, the Dean of Cape Town offered up the prayers for the occasion. The sod was cut, thrown into the barrow, wheeled to a short distance, and then, amid the cheers of the assembled multitude and the booming canon, Sir George Grey had turned the first sod of the first railway in Southern Africa. It is only those who have resided at the Cape that can appreciate the importance of this event to the advancement  and prosperity of the colony. It is the commencement of a new era.

Upwards of 16,000 pounds has been already raised in different parts of the colony for the (Dutch Reformed) Theological Seminary at Stellenbosch.

JUVENILE IMMIGRANTS - The Volksblad states that a deputation of the Dutch juvenile immigration committee visited Drakenstein, Paarl, Wellington, Stellenbosch and Somerset West to ascertain, by personal inquiry, the actual condition of the juvenile immigrants, settled in these localities. They visited altogether eighty three of them and were highly gratified with the results. The deputation consisted of the Hon. Mr. de Wet and Messrs. P.A. BRAND and TRUTER.

ELECTRIC TELEGRAPH - Mr PICKERING, who arrived by the mail steamer, intends, it is stated to proceed with the construction of the telegraph line to Wellington immediately, and that the whole of the wires and apparatus required for it will arrive by the next mail steamer. He will be prepared to extend it to other important centres of trade and communication whenever he is required to do so, and he estimated that the expense in any direction will be considerably under 60 pounds a mile.

BIRTHS
Dec 21, at Beufort West, Mrs. R. M'LEOD of a son; April 12, at Redbourne, Plettenberg Bay, Mrs W.H. NEWDGATE , of a daughter; April 12, at Cape Town, Mrs H. HENEKE, of a son

MARRIAGES
Feb 14, at Cape Town, Joseph James, third son of Thomas BARRY, of Fort Beaufort, to Susan Maria, fifth daughter of J.B.A.  BLAND; March 8, at Fort Beaufort, Tobias Johannes, son of the late Rev. Mr. Herold Stellenbosch, to Johanna Marthina, second daughter of T. BARRY; March 9, at Fort Beaufort, James, son of the late W. DUNN, to Elizabeth Helena, youngest daughter of Mr. J. GUNTER; April 16, at Cape Town, Mr. T. S . HOPLEY of Beufort West, to Clara Frances, daughter of  J. WOODROW  of London.

DEATHS
March 31, at Paarl, Hubert SHELLY, late surgeon to the new Kloof Convict Station, aged 34 years; April 5, at Cape Town, Maria, daughter of Mr. Lewis EVANS; April 9, at Cape Town, Mr Peter TYFFE, aged 66 years; April 18, at Observatory, P. MORTON; April 10, at Stellenbosch, Robert, infant son of Mr R.J. CROZIER; April 5,  at Wecome Wood, near Sidbury, William, only son of Mr MACKRILL; April 10, at Swellendam,Letitia, eldest daughter of Mr. KENNEDAY.

EASTERN PROVINCE

EXTRAORDINARY CAPTURE OF FORTY WHALES - Mr RESTALL of Groote Vley, Oliphants Hoek, whose residence commands a view of the sea, observed with a telescope, something black on the ocean, proceeding thither, he was greatly surprised to find that a shoal of live whales, forty in number, had been cast up by the tide, then at high water. He immediately procured a span of oxen, and as the tide receded made chains fast to the whales in succession, until the entire shoal were hauled up, high and dry beyond the tidal reach.
On looking over his captures, Mr Restall found he had secured forty black finned whales, varying from 6 to 18 feet in length, the majority approaching the larger figure. One creature he estimates to have weighed fully 5,000 pounds, as twelve oxen could with difficulty only, drag it along and whilst being skinned, the whole strength of the  span was needed to turn the whale over. From the rude appliances at his disposal, Mr Restall got 300 gallons of oil. A good deal of conjecture has arisen as to how these creatures became cast up, and were not the veracity of the gentleman we have named unimpeachable, we should have been disposed to look upon the whole narrative as  very like a whale, but we are stating facts, and what renders the circumstances more remarkable is, that there had been fine weather previously, - the day before, so still that nine vessels were becalmed within sight of  Groote Vley. Mr Restall is quite unable to account for the  remarkable occurrence, and has suggested that some marine volcanic action must have cast the whales out of their depth and left them floundering in the shoal where they were captured.

SOMERSET (EAST) - Mr. UPJOHN, in the West is advertising rhubarb plants for sale as something new and wonderful in the colony, while Mr HART, of Glen Avon, has been supplying his friends for many years past with plants and seed from this delicious vegetable. He is also a public benefactor in having brought the first meal to market in 182, at the Somerset Fair, and since timber has been cut from gum trees grown on his estate. Besides, gooseberries, currants, and cherry trees have been long cultivated on the same property with success, as many can witness who have partaken of his hospitality. The cherry trees were sent to the colony many years since by Mr. VETCH, of Exeter. Kentish and Black heart particularly have done well. The fruits of  Glen Avon are unequalled in the colony, as no expense or trouble has been spared to bring them to perfection. Glen Avon may be well considered a model farm and worthy of a visit . Iron mills have been long in use, and  lately one of Westwood and Sons patent mills and stone have been worked with success by Mr HART jun. Generally speaking the district is rich and getting rich. Iron roofs for houses, mahogany furniture, pianos and such things are all the go now, and the waggon chests and Veld stoeltjes are rapidly getting out of fashion.

SUDDEN DEATH OF MR. BILLINGHAM M..P. FOR UITENHAGE - It is our painful duty to announce the very sudden death of Mr Joseph BILLINGHAM, which took place on Sunday evening last. For some days he had been unwell and about eight o clock of the evening in question was seized with an apoplectic fit. His brother who had been in attendance on him during the day, immediately went for medical assistance, but before it could be obtained, Mr Billingham was no more. This sudden bereavement has affected most painfully his family and friends. To his surviving relatives and friends we tender our sincere sympathies under the painful circumstances of their affliction.

BIRTHS
April 6, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs. PUCKLE, of a daughter; March 21, at Howison Port, Mrs. J.R. MORGAN, of a son; March 27, at Grahams Town, the wife of Mr. W.H. HALL, Commissariate, of a son; March 15, Mrs. Charles MALLET, of a son March 31, at Cathcart, Mrs EYDE, of a son

MARRIAGES
March 30, at Uitenhage, Mr. James F. PARKES, to Miss Helen P. FORREST; March 10, at Grahams Town, Mr ALLISONto Miss Harriet KEW; March 14, at Mill River, Mr GAME to Emily Elizabeth, third daughter of the late Mr. WEBB

DEATHS
March 12, at Queenstown, John, the only son of Mr Thomas STUBBS; Feb 22, at Cradock, Elizabeth, aged 37 years, widow of the late Rev. G HARTLEY, and eldest daughter of the late Mr. WEEKS, of Grahams Town; March 16, at Elands Post, Jane, the youngest daughter of  Mr BOYLE; April 3, at Port Elizabeth, Jessie, daughter of Mr. OWEN; April 14, at Port Elizabeth, Jessie Florence, infant daughter of Mr. PUCKLE; April 23, at Port Elizabeth, Hector M'KENZIE, aged 51 years; March 13, at Grahams Town, Isabella, wife of Alexander PETERS, late of 91st Regt. aged 58 years.

NATAL

The elections for the Legislative Council were finished. The following is a list of the members of the new Council

County of Klip River - G. MELLERSH and J. GREGORY County of Weenen  - Walter M'FARLANE County of Umvoti  - Johan Christoffel BOSHOFF County of Pietermaritzburg - J. MORELAND and J. ARBUTHNOT County of Durban - Adolf COQUI County of Victoria - Henry MILNER Borough of Pietermaritzburg - Joseph HENDERSON and Jonas BERGTHIOL Borough of Durban - John MILLAR and John Richardson GOODRICKE

Great efforts are about to be made for the improvement of the Port at D'Urban.
There was a good deal of excitement wherever there was a contest, and the usual amount of clap-trap inscriptions appeared on the flags of the various candidates, and promises made to give everybody everything.

The works on the Port and D'Urban Railway have been prosecuted with energy by Mr. Albert ROBINSON, the efficient engineer of the company. He has also been requested to order a steam launch to convey sugar to the port from the estate of Chakas Kraal, where a jetty will be run out on the coast. It is announced that Mr. Alexander M'LEAN, of Umhlali,has been appointed manager of the Umzinto Sugar Company.

The introduction of the inmates of Ragged Schools has been mooted and meetings have been held by English settlers on the subject.

It is ascertained that 300 acres of cotton are at present cultivated by the natives under the auspices of the Government.

The Wesleyans at Maritzburg have constructed a new brick chapel of Ionic design, which was opened on the 25th March, and about 75 pounds was contributed at the various services. The old building will now be used for coloured classes.

The Government contemplate the erection of a lighthouse on the bluff, which will enable vessels from India to make the land and with the aid of the expected steam tug passing vessels could receive without delay supplies of provisions at a cheaper rate than at the Cape or St Helena.
When the improvements in our beautiful land-locked harbour are completed, we shall be able to offer facilities for the repair and cleaning of ships unequalled by any other port in these seas.

STEAM SURF BOAT - An iron surf boat, with a screw and steam power, is ordered from England for a large sugar estate on the coast for the purpose of bringing the produce of the estate to this port. The boat is to carry twenty five tons of cargo and will draw under three feet when laden. She will be so constructed as to be capable of being hauled on the beach in bad weather, and at other times of being loaded from the beach without boats. This spirited effort will solve the difficulty of land carriage to the port from the more distant estates. The boat is for the Chaka sugar mills, and is ordered by Mr. Coqui through Mr. A. Robinson.

The Durban Chamber of Commerce is memorialising the Home Secretary to re-establish a land grant system. It can scarcely be expected that their prayers will be granted. Natal's land has been squandered - first by the registration grants, second by land commission grants, third by land board grants, and forth, by proclamation land grant. Every inch of land in the colony has now a value, and all our unhappy experience goes to show that giving away land does not people the settlement. A few cargoes of sugar and wool will soon proclaim the value of the land in a language which capitalists will understand, and then our reserves will bring funds for roads, bridges and immigration.

MEDICAL MEN AT NATAL - In the Times of the 13 December there is a paragraph from the Civil Service Gazette, intimating there are several vacancies for District Surgeons in Natal at 75 pounds per annum, with ample scope for private practice. I have never seen any advertisement for such officers in the Government Gazette, and as to the scope for medical practice - some gentlemen have abandoned the towns for country life. As the European population is small and the climate healthy, it would be madness for medical men to come here on the strength of such a statement, as there is a super abundance of professional men in the colony.

BIRTHS
Feb 7, at Lower Umkomanzi, Mrs. ARBUTHNOT, of a son; April 1, at Pinetown, the wife of the Rev. J.L. COMPTON, of a son; April 1, at Durban, Mrs T. JACQUES of a son; March 11, at Camperdown, Mrs. A.C. HAWKINS, of a son; March 16, at Maritzburg, the wife of Dr. P.C. SUTHERLAND, of a son; March 20, at Pietermaritzburg, Mrs M'GILL of a daugther

DEATHS
April 11, at Chaka s Kraal, Mr. B. BALCOMB, aged 66 yrs; March 13, at Kruisfontein, Anna Hermina Aletta STYL March 15, at the American Mission Station, Amahlonga, the infant son of the Rev. S.C. PIXLEY.

1 July 1859

The Colonial Parliament was still in session, and likely to continue so for a month longer.The discussion of the estimates had only just been entered upon. The estimate revenue for 1859 is 474,000pounds and the expenditure 466,000 pounds.
The principal subjects that have been occupying the attention of the Legislature have been the insolvent law, the usuary law, the marriage law, the banking system of the colony, ecclesiastical grants, various public works and the proposed scheme for a federative separation of the Eastern and Western Provinces.
The select committee of the House of Assembly, on the subject of steam communication between the colony and England, report that they are of opinion that the line, via Mauritius, as proposed which would give two mails from England per month, would be too expensive.

From the neighbouring states there is no news of any importance. The Free State is quiet and prosperous. The Transvaal Republic seems to have abandoned all intention of attacking Kuruman, for the present at least.

The Royal Mail steam ship Phoebe, belonging to the Union Company, arrived at Plymouth on Saturday afternoon after a very favourable passage, although during the latter part she had strong north-east winds to contend with. She left Table Bay on the 22 May with the following passengers-

The Hon. Julius MOSENTHAL , Mrs Mosenthal, three children and servant The Hon, J. H. GREATHEAD, Mrs Greathead, seven children and servant Hon. D.J. VAN BREDA and son (Peter Van Breda) Major BUSH Lieutenant CUMMING Miss SIMPSON Mrs DYASON Miss SAUNDERS Captain and Mrs SPENCE Mr & Mrs RENNIES Mr HEILBRUN Mr LEWIS Mr WICHT Mr DYASON jun Mr BLACK Mr BIRT Mr WINDER

The Royal Mail steam ship Athens arrived in Table Bay on the 17th May after a passage of 41 days owing to the very severe weather which she encountered.

The Tiptree which sailed from Table Bay for London on the 7th May had on board the following passengers - Dr & Mrs BINDEN, servant and two children Mr & Mrs LANDSBERG Mr & Mrs FERRANDI and five children Mr & Mrs MEYER and four children Mr & Mrs PERRIERand two sons Mrs JUNGHENN Messrs. H. ROSS, BULMER, MUIRHEAD, GODON, MARLING, Dr. FITZGERALD

Mr & Mrs WOLFE.
Steerage - Mr CURTIS, wife and three children Mr. FINDLAY, wife and child Soldier's wife and two children

WESTERN PROVINCE

The object we have so long and anxiously looked forward to - a breakwater in Table Bay - once more appeared for a time to be completely shelved, - Mr ANDREWS, the engineer sent out for the colony, and Mr SMITH, the agent of Mr LEATHER, the contractor, having intimated that such a breakwater as that prepared by Captain Vetch would absorb a sum more than double that voted by the Colonial Legislature, in fact, it would have to be prepared to authorise an annual expenditure of about 100,000pounds until the works were completed, the exact cost of which they could not fix. This appeared at first a complete extinguisher, but a committee was appointed by both Houses, and after taking evidence they brought up a report recommending that the work should no longer be delayed, but that the outer pier should be at once commenced, for which the sum at the disposal of the Government would be sufficient, and that the works should be undertaken by the Government under the  superintendence of a proper engineer and a staff of competent officers, with the advantage of being able to employ a large amount of convict labour, which effect a considerable saving to the colony.  As this will no doubt be adopted, we may soon see this important work commenced.

The much vexed questions as to the line and terminus of the railway are still unsettled. The latter will however most probably be fixed at the north west angle of the Grand Parade, as recommended by Parliament while the Wynberg people have had their disappointment at the line not taking that direction made up by the formation of a company for a branch line, with such prospects of a profitable return, the do not intend applying for a  Government guarantee.The necessity of railway communication is, I am glad to say, being felt throughout the colony, and applications are now being entertained by Parliament for the survey of two other lines.

The trade of the colony, though not very brisk, has been on a wholesome footing. Provisions still remain very high. One or two associations are in the course of formation to supply cheap bread and meat. The season, has, however, set in very favourably, seasonable rains having made up for a long continued drought, under which many parts of the colony were suffering.

A very successful sale of landed property was held at Wellington last week. Mr BRITTAINs property was divided into 13 lots, the on which the apothecarys shop stands being reserved by Mr. Brittain for himself.  Two or three years ago he gave 1,000pounds for the whole estate, including the hotel. On this occasion the 12 lots changed hands for 2,050pounds. The hotel and ground on which it stands, and the adjoining sold for 1,300pounds, and was purchased for some one in the Paarl.

The anniversary of the Queen's birthday, next Tuesday, will be kept as a general holiday in Cape Town. There will be a grand review  of all the troops in garrison on the Parade, in which the Volunteer Cavalry Rifles and Artillery will take part.  The review it is expected will commence at noon, the ball being opened by a right royal salute from the Castle and the Hermes. The Governor and Lady Grey, the Lieutenant-Governor and all the fashionables of Cape Town, will no doubt be present.

The Cape Town Sailor's Home is one of the most useful institutions in our city. The annual meeting of its supporters was held a fortnight ago, and the following interesting facts were then stated - Since the day the Home was opened, the 6th June 1855, till the 31st December 1857, the number of officers and men boarded at the Home was 1,789 and from 31st December 1857 to 31 December 1858, 600 making a total of 2,449. During the past year, 32 distressed seamen had been admitted without any charge at the expense of 29l. 16s. 11d.
There has been a lamentable falling off in the amount of subscriptions and donations. In 1857 it was 614l. 17s. 2d., last year it was only 340l. 10s. 3d. The amount received for board and lodging in 1858 was 678l. 6s. 2d. His Excellency the Governor had been kind enough to grant 50pound to the institution in consideration of the relief afforded to the crew of the Eastern City which was burnt at sea. At the present time there is a deficiency of upwards 100pounds. Sir William HODGES, who presided, said it was intended to supplement the present grant of 100pounds per annum by another 100pounds. The new building, which was calculated to accommodate 130 men, besides officers of ships and the official staff, would cost, it had been calculated about 5,000 pounds. They had got the plans prepared by the civil engineer and had a prospect of getting a grant of 1,000 pounds to make a beginning.

THE CAPE TOWN AND WELLINGTON RAILWAY - Some awkward difficulties have arisen in connection with the direction of the railway. The line hitherto contemplated for it has been a tortuous and lengthy one, which for the sake of having Stellenbosch on the main trunk has cut off the corn growing country of Koeberg and Zwartland from any participation in the benefits of it at all. This will now be altered, for two select committees in the Assembly and Council respectively have recommended that the main line should extend nearly in a direct course to Paarl and Wellington, and that a branch should diverge from Muller's Vlei to Stellenbosch.

It is satisfactory to find that further agitation is being rapidly got up for an extension of railways in South Africa. A select committee of the Assembly is in session considering the project of a railway from Port  Elizabeth to Grahams Town, and a company is being organised in Cape Town for the construction of a branch railway from Cape Tow to Wynberg, and with the most abundant indications of success.

TOBACCO - An important agricultural experiment is now being conducted on the farm Alphen, in the neighbouring Wynberg. Two emigrants who arrived last year from Holland, Messrs TEENGS and TEPE, determined to initiate the systematic cultivation of tobacco in the vicinity of Cape Town, and for that purpose obtained a piece of otherwise waste unoccupied land on the farm named. During the year they have cleared it of the rank, luxuriant bush which had previously covered it, subjected it to regular and effective tillage and reaped a very excellent crop of very excellent tobacco leaves.

BIRTHS
At Swellendam, Mrs Albert KENNEDY, of a son, who only survived a few hours

MARRIAGES
May 3, at Rondebosch, Captain W. TYLER BARTLEY, of H.M 6th Reg. to Esther, eldest daughter of Mr Justice BELL; May 12, at Beaufort West, Mr J.H. ELLIOT, of Salt River to Miss M.E., eldest daughter of Mr. M. DE JAGER; May 7, at Cape Town, Samuel, youngest son of S. MERCER, to Harriet, widow of the late H. SHELLEY, and daughter of the late John FOSTER, ship agent; April 28, at Wynberg, T.J. EATON of Drooge Vallei, to Henrietta Ann, third daughter of the late Mr Justice MUSGRAVE

DEATHS
April 29, at Cape Town, Mr George M. PEDDER, aged 40 years; May 3, at Cape Town, Joseph, son of Mr. Ezra GOODSON, aged 9 months; May 3, at Cape Town, Robert Albert, son of Mr Thomas ADAMS, aged 9 years; May 3, at Cape Town, Mr Thomas GRIFFITHS, aged 22 years; May 5, Mr James Ryan BATHIE, aged 49 years; May 7, Mr. William PREBBLE, aged 34 years; May 9, William, son of Mr Thomas FIELD.

EASTERN PROVINCE

The month which has elapsed, has been characterised by great monetary tightness. The stoppage of Mr. R.G. STONE, with liabilities to the amount of about 80,000pounds has caused inconvenience to many, and some failures have resulted in consequence. In the midst of all the pecuniary tightness there are, however, ample evidence of trade and progress. The quantity of wool, which daily comes to our merchants is unprecedented, and by the shipping export returns we have oft-repeated tokens of the colonys power of production. Public works in hand are carried on with spirit. New operations are designed, public and private buildings are everywhere rearing and merchants stores of a costly character are added to our streets. We have few unemployed and no poor. So far as this city is concerned, it has sustained the pressure better than any other community, and at this moment its banking institutions will bear comparison with any other in the colony.

The resources and elasticity of this province have been sorely tested by an obstinate drought for upwards of eight months, and although vegetables may be said to be out of the market, esculents very dear and general articles of daily consumption high, yet the only wonder is we are not placed under famine prices. Bread corn is at as low quotations as it has been on an average of five years, beef and mutton are at sixpence per lb.

The civil engineers department is undergoing a complete renovation under Mr Scott TUCKER, from whom we anticipate great reform and improvements in all public works. Adequate supervision is to be provided for  bridges, roads and public buildings.

BIRTHS
May 8, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs H. DEARE, of a son; May 17, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs. W.S. KIRKWOOD of a son; April 14, at King Williams Town, the wife of Colonel BLISSETT, of a son

MARRIAGE
April 7, at Colesberg, Mr. H.L. RUDLIN, to Catherine Anne HODGSON, third daughter of the Rev. R. GIDDY; April 23, at Fort Beaufort, Charles Blyth, eldest son of C.C. HUTCHINS, Regents Park, London to Mary Jane, second daughter of the late Mr Thomas WARD, of Fort Beaufort

DEATHS
April 20, Mr John JOHNSON, a native of Cambridge England, aged 51 years; May 7, at Port Elizabeth, Rose, wife of Robert Henry SMITH; April 25, at King Williams Town, Mrs BARNETT; April 9, at Peelton Mission Station, Mr James BIRT; April 7, Mary Ann, only daughter of Mr. W. KING;
May 10, at East London, Mr John ACTON, aged 52 years.

NATAL

The election of Mr. BOSHOF, for the Umvoti, having been declared void, a large number of candidates is said to be in the field among whom are the unseated members, Messrs. ARCHBELL, VANDERPLANK, Otto LANDSBERG and KINGHURST.. The chief ground of this vacancy appears to be some mistake or irregularities in the official conduct of the election.

A very large number, several thousands, of refugee from the Zulu country had fled into Natal in consequence of the war ragging between Panda and Kithchwayo.

As the Home Government have negatived the federation question, the colonists of Natal are much disappointed with the conduct of Mr. BOSHOF, the President of the Free State, towards English interests. He has arrived at his brothers place at Mooi River, and will soon be at the city. It cannot be expected that the same cordial feeling will now be felt in his welfare.

The Natal Fire Assurance and Trust Company has declared a half yearly dividend of 30 per cent and voted a silver salver to their late secretary, Carl BEHRENS, who is now the able general manager of the Natal Bank. This is the first piece of plate presented in Natal.

BIRTHS
April 21, at Durban, Mrs A. HORAN, of a son; April 23, at Durban, the wife of Captain Walter LLOYD, of a son and heir; April 23, at Durban,  Mrs J.R. SAUNDERS, of a son; April 22, at Verulam, Mrs. J. MILLER, of a son; April 23, at Verulam, Mrs T.W. GARLAND, of a daughter; April 23, at Claredon, Mrs. W.R. SHAW, of a daughter; May 2, at Clairmont, Mrs. M.B. SMART, of a daughter; May 3, at Verulam, the wife of the Rev. J. GASPIN, of a son

MARRIAGES
April 26, at Pietermaritzburg, Charles Tebbutt BELL, to Portia Victoria Palema, only daughter of  T.H.E. OKES, of Pietermaritzburg; April 28, at Pinetown, C.H. DICKINSON, to Martha, second daughter of J. AYRES, late of Hertford; April 29, at Pietermarizburg, H.POWELL, to Helen Dunnett, third daughter of A. MACDONALD, late of Glascow.

DEATHS
April 20, at Hlofongas Kraal, in the Zulu country, Mr. James LANSDELL, aged 31 years; April 21, Mr CHALLONER.

ADVERTS

A COMFORT TO COLONISTS - Where there are no brewers there can be no yeast, and where there is no yeast it is generally supposed there can be no light bread. This last, however is a mistake, BORWICKS BAKING POWDER, which has for many years been used in the Royal Navy, and was found so valuable to the army in the Crimean and Chineses wars, is a perfect substitute for yeast, and the process of using it is so simple, and its operation so quick, that the most inexperienced can convert flour into bread or tea cakes with it in a few minutes. It may be used to great advantage in puddings and pastry, rendering them, with half the usual quantity of eggs and butter, both wholesome and delicious. It will keep for years. This article is sold in 2d., 4d., and 6d. packets and 1s. canisters, by most druggists and grocers in Cape Town. Parties not yet supplied may obtain it through any merchant or shipper in London.

A CHEAP RECIPE FOR PRESERVING CLOTHES - Instead of wasting several hours every week in rubbing your clothes to pieces - if you really wish them to durable - try the wonderful effects of WIDOW BROWNS WASHING COMPO.  It contains all the chemical properties of Soap, Soda, and Blue, and requires only that the clothes should be boiled in it about twenty minutes, then rinsed and wrung out, to make them as white as the driven snow. By this means, while securing durability of your clothes, you will save your Soap, Soda and Blue, and much valuable time, and the discomfort of the washing day will not be felt. This article is sold in 1d. packets, at most stores in Cape Town.

1 August 1859

Public works are progressing satisfactorily. The expenditure for construction and maintaining colonial roads is estimated at 70,000pounds this year. A preliminary survey of the country between Port Elizabeth and Graham's Town is to be made with the view to ascertaining the expediency of laying down a railway.

The railway from Cape Town to Wellington is in progress, and will, according to the contract, be opened for traffic within two and a half years from this date. Another line was under consideration from Port Elizabeth to Graff-Reinet. It was also proposed to survey a line in continuation from Wellington terminus to Worcester, which would open up a traffic from the interior of the colony.

Mr. A. WYLEY, the Geological Surveyor, has completed a geological map of most of the colonial districts. He will shortly publish a general report on the geology of South Africa.

Several shipwrecks, attended with loss of life, had occured on the South African coast. The Aberdeen barque Shepherdess, in endeavouring to enter AlgoaBay, struck on a reef off Cape Receife, and was almost instantaneously lost. Out of a crew of fourteen souls (including the captain) only two seamen were saved. A brig named the Flora went ashore at Walwich Bay, and some of the passengers, including the wife and four children of a missionary (the Rev. Mr. RATH) were drowned. The schooner Anne has been wrecked near Cape Point and the Osmond at Port Beaufort. A ship, bearing the name Ulysses, was found abandoned off the east coast, and has been taken into AlgoaBay. Nothing is known of the fate of her crew. Several vessels had recently put into our colonial ports in a damaged state.

The Union Company's Royal Mail steam ship Athens, Capt. SMITH, arrived at Plymouth on Thursday afternoon, her dates are, Table Bay June 21, St. Helena June 30, Ascension July 4. The Athens brings the following passengers - Mr.and Mrs. TUCKER, two children and two servants Mr and Mrs DARTER, Mr T.J. BOTHA Mr. WILSON and son Capt. MOON Mr HUNT Mr ANDREWS Mr and Mrs MONCKTON Mr LIBBY Mr and Mrs WOODHOUSE and four children Mr and Mrs CLAYTON and four chidren Mr and Mrs NEWLANDS and three children Mr and Mrs HOLMES Rev Arch Deacon MACKENZIE and Miss MACKENZIE Mr SEARLE Mr SANDERSON Mr MAYNARD Hon. J. PATERSON and family Mr and Mrs MILLER Miss LAMB Miss WESCOTT Mrs SMITH and child

The following passengers have engaged berths in the Union Company steamer which takes out mails of the 5th inst.- Mr and Mrs DE PASS Mr and Mrs BENSUSAN Lord Bishop of Cape Town Mrs Gray Mr and Mrs LUCKHAM and servant Mr MARSH Mr and Mrs CARBUTT,  son and daughter Mr and Mrs DICKINSON Mr LYDARD Mr GUMPERT Mr CHAPLIN Mrs and Miss BENNETT Mr SELIGMAN Miss SPIERS Rev's TURNBALL, THOMAS AND JAMES
 
The Lord Raglan, chartered by the Emigration Commissioners, sailed on the 18th ult. from Southampton to Table Bay. She took out 41 married couples, 117 single men, 22 single women, 42 children and infants.

WESTERN PROVINCE

A private bill for the naturalising of a Mr. VON MEYER is the only one that has as yet passed both Houses.
The Parliament has voted 1,500pounds in aid of agricultural societies, which are now springing up in every direction. Their usefulness in inducing the farmers to use better kinds of farming implements cannot be over estimated. A grand ploughing match took place at the farm of Mr. BEYERS a few days ago, when there was no less than fourteen competitors. The Governor and suite were present, and Mr. Beyers entertained them and a party of upwards 150 to a sumptuous dinner. If some of our wealthy farmers would only emulate him, our agriculture would soon cease to be as primitive as it is at present. and would afford ample employment for a better class of European labourers.

An influenza has, broken out amongst the horses, which though not very fatal, has, however, greatly interfered with the breeders, and purchases for the Remount Agency have partially stopped.

THE QUEENS BIRTHDAY - Tuesday was strickly observed as a holiday, in celebration of hier Majesty's birthday. The weather was seasonable, and favourable to the full enjoyment of all the entertainments provided for the pleasure seekers. In the morning a levee was held at Government House, and in the evening a grand ball came off at the same place.
At noon, the 59th Regiment, at present stationed here, together with a company of the Cape Mounted Rifles and the whole of the Cape Town Volunteer Corps, were drawn up on the Parade, and the usual feu de joie and royal salute were fired.
Volunteers for the Navy are being called for by the shipping master, Capt.
TINLEY, by order of the senior officer of the station, Commander GORDON.The applications from landsmen, as well as able-bodied seamen, are numerous and it is confidently expected that on the return of H.M.st Perseverance from Natal and Algoa Bay, that a number of suitable men will be ready to proceed home in her. The amount of bounty money has not yet been fixed.

Cape Town
Provision Market

The market rates for provisions still rule high all over the colony. In Cape Town the retail prices are - Beef 8d to 1s. per lb, steaks 1s, mutton 7d. to 8d.
Chocolate per lb, 2s. 6d., starch 1s, blue indigo 7s. 6d., maccaroni and vermicelli, 1s. 2d to 1s. 4d.

House rent continues very high. An experienced agent informs us that the following are average current prices per month - Small self contained house, two small rooms and kitchen, with backyard, 1l, 5s. to 1l. 15s.
superior dwellings, about 2l. to 3l. , large houses, according to size, from 4l.  to 8l. per month.

BIRTHS
June 9, at Woodlands, the wife of the Rev. Canon WHITE, of a son and heir June 5, at Cape Town, Mrs T.J.C. INGLESBY, of a son

MARRIAGES
May 8, at Cape Town, Mr James Lunn SHIEL, of Newcastle, England to Margaret, widow of the late Mr. Charles MASSIE, May 25, at Durban, Petrus Johannes, son of William A.J. DE SMIDT, to Mary Isabella, youngest daughter of Dr. H.H. GIRD, of Koeberg

DEATHS
May 20, at Twenty four Rivers, Catherine Mary, eldest daughter of Mr. John Percival WIGGINS,aged 18 years June 4, at MosselBay, Robert Daniel, eldest son of E. EAGER,aged 34 years May 29, at Cape Town, Mrs A.R. De Villier ROGERS, aged 49 years June 14, at Cape Town, Mr Robert Medhurst, aged 72 years.
 
EASTERN PROVINCE

Thirty four Scotch emigrants, now in Nova Scotia, have requested passages for themselves, wives and children, 175 souls in all, to this colony, but as they require land they have not been encouraged by the  Executive. This is strange, as we have thousands of miles of country, untrodden by a single human foot. This country we wish to see converted into smiling fields, covered with flocks and herds and dotted with peaceful homesteads. The kind of immigrants we want are chiefly cultivators of the ground - producers- with their wives and families, men who in Wiltshire and Berks are earning only 8s. a week, and whose chief recommendation is bone and sinew, temperance and honesty.

The Kowie Harbour works continue to make very satisfactory progress. The labour party reaches 320 men. The convict station there is one of the most complete on the frontier. A ticket-of-leave batch of 25 men is to be added to the station. The present gang comprises some very good mechanics. The tramway laid by them is equal to the passage of locomotives. It costs only 10s. per yard, and is an excellent illustration of a cheap and effective  means of transport within the means of the colonists.
 
The valuations of fixed property at the instance of divisional councils has brought to light some discreditable disclosures. The valuator of Colesberg, Mr.F. VAN ZYL, purchased his farm two years ago for 6,000 pounds and returns it in the schedule at 1,550 pounds.

A very laudable desire exists to improve the breed of sheep and the importation of rams has become an important branch of trade. Messrs.DEARE and DEITZ of Port Elizabeth, are importing per Chasseur 101 French Merino rams from Marscilles.

The Queen's birthday appears to have been suitably observed all over the colony. At Port Elizabeth, the event was celebrated with a regatta and sundry sports and races.

Our obituary includes the Mr. N.P. KROHN, of the firm of N.P. Krohn and Co. associated with the house of Maynards, one of the oldest establishments in the EasternProvince, and doing business in the early days of the British settlers. Mr KROHN received a kick from one of his carriage horses, which displaced the cap of his knee. This led to a succession of fits, under which the lamented gentleman sank. Mrs. NELSON,who has resided here ever since the formation of the British settlement, has also paid the debt of nature at a very advanced age.

The German Legion has been disbanded in India, and the officers offered free passage back to this colony, but we have no particular anxiety to receive them.

IMPORTED STOCK - We are glad to notice that further additions to our imported live stock have been made during the month. By the Wolverine Messrs. FLEMING and Co. have received for Mr. J.J. MEINTJES, of Graaff-Reinet, two very superior thorough bred rams, and by the same vessel, eight Angola goats were brought, forming part of the flock of twenty eight for Messrs. Thompson and Co. of Grahams Town. By the Ocean Sprite, Messrs, THOMSON, WATSON, SIMPSON and Co. have imported ten Merino rams, and Messrs. G. WOOD and Sons, by the Elizabeth Lewis, imported five rams and eight ewes.
The 101 French rams imported by Messrs. DEARE and DEITZ, have much improved in condition since their arrival.

The drought which has been reported in so many recent summaries has at last been terminated by copious and refreshing showers, extending from Bloemfontein into Port Elizabeth.

The German Immigrants at King Williams Town, have, it appears, formed themselves into an association for providing the means of religious instruction and worship in their own language and have appealed to the colonists generally to aid them in so doing.

BIRTHS
May 12, at West Hill, Mrs George WOOD, jun, of a daughter May 9, at Queenstown, Mrs Ralph John GODDARD, of a daughter May 15, at Bedford, the wife of W.E. WINGROVE, of twins, a son and daughter June 5, at King Williamstown, Mrs PRINGLE, of Springfield, near Queenstown, twin daughters.

MARRIAGES
At Buffelsfontein, Hezekiah, son of Mr Thomas SEPHTON, of Port Elizabeth, to Henrietta, fifth daughter of Mr. Thomas SEPHTON. ( could be a typo error on Newspaper's part.)

(Russell Clayton writes: No, not a typo. They were 1st cousins. Henrietta's father was Thomas Hezekiah SEPHTON b. 1802, whilst Hezekiah's father was Thomas SEPHTON b. 1814. A few other unusual things about about this marriage was that Henrietta was seven years older than her spouse; she was also apparently the adopted daughter of her spouse's parents.)

May 3, at Olive Grove, near Somerset East, Thomas Henry, second son of the late Rev. Jeremiah HARTLEY, to Maria Ann, fourth daughter of Mr. Chas. PENNY, sen of Salem.
May 18, at Salem, Samuel,
youngest son of the late Mr. C. WOOD, of Port Elizabeth, to Susannah, youngest daughter of Mr. C. PENNY, sen, of Salem

DEATHS
May 7, at Cradock, Isabella Eliza Eleanor, daughter of Mr.
J.G. DAVEY
May 6, at Queenstown, Eliza Alice, wife of Mr. Thomas HULLY, aged 26 years May 10, at Grahams Town, Charlotte, widow of the late Mr.
John TESTARD, aged 52 years
May 14, at Grahams Town, N.P. KROHN , aged 40 years May 15, at Grahams Town, Mary, wife of Mr. Thomas NELSON, aged 76 years May 20, at Grahams Town, Mrs Catherine Schryver, of Cradock, aged 64 years May 22, at Amsterdam Flats, Mr. Joseph HART, formely of Grahams Town, aged 56 years May 26, at Grahams Town, Harry Rouse, only child of Mr. E.W.CYRUS

NATAL

Most interesting is the movement taken by the Council to supply labour for the sugar estates. A sum of 5,000pounds had been noted for the introduction of Indians, and to provide that sum, an increase of customs duties on spirits, tobacco, cigars and other luxuries of life had been resolved upon.

PAYNE'S COTTON FACTORY -  A sign board with these words appears on the wall of Mr. ROYSTON's steam-mill, and we find that Mr. PAYNE has made arrangements for the working of his cotton gin by Mr Royston machinery. Several bales of splendid cotton are now undergoing the process of ginning, and this infant enterprise bids fair rapidly to realise satisfactory results.

DISCHARGED SOLDIERS - About sixteen men received their discharge before the embarkation of the 45th Regt., and remain as settlers. A considerable number more, who could not receive their formal discharge here, received it at Port Elizabeth, and will return as settlers by the Waldensian. Most of these men having already proved their character, will prove a valuable addition to the industry of the colony.
 
LAND SALES - On Saturday last Messrs FERREIRA and Co held extensive land sales. The price of fixed property is generally considered a criterion of the progress of the colony, and indicates both the increasing use to which land is put and the steady confidence of capitalists. Since the establishment of the settlement, farms of 6,000 acres have gradually risen from 50pounds to their present price, which varies according to locality. On the coast, near the port, it is not to be had at less than 21s. per acre for indifferent soil. It diminishes upward from the coast to ten shillings. Around Pietermaritzburg, the price varies from four shillings to 1pound according to locality. The farms sold on Saturday are about twenty five miles from Pietermaritzburg, in the Ilovo direction. The prices realised were , for Weltevreden, purchased by G.H.
WATHEN, 2s. 3d. per acre, Enon, purchased by Capt. LLOYD at 1s. 9d. and Vinks Rivier, purchased by P. ALLEN at 1s. 7.5d. per acre. The town property belonging to Mr. GHADE, was not sold. Up country farms, of 8,000 acres, adapted for sheep are rising rapidly, 2s. per acre being demanded in some instances.

HER MAJESTY's BIRTHDAY - A fine breezy day, a clear cutting atmosphere.
Crowds of people flocking towards noon to the camp hill. Vehicles of every kind in full requisition. A motely assemblage spread out beneath FortNapier at the top of the town. Many varieties of the human race drawn together, affording ample opportunity for the study of mankind, - English appearing complacent and respective, Dutch looking indifferent or slightly censorious, natives gazing eagerly and all interested, every one desirous of seeming cheerful but looking decidedly cold. In the centre are the military - the 85th drawn up with all the precision of the true British soldier, next we have the C.M. Rifles, sombre, but business like devoid of Trippery and gewgaws. Then came the Carbineers, whose appearance and evolutions were both soldierlike and creditable. The crowd meanwhile increases, our defenders remain stationary. A little after noon the Governor dressed in full Windsor uniform and staff ride upon the field. Then the active proceedings of the day commence. At twelve o'clock three field pieces at the camp, fire a salute of twenty one guns in honour of the Britons Queen. Then follows a feu de joie of small arms, the national anthem, the prolonged cheers of the military. In the latter, the spectators do not join, with them loyalty is felt but not expressed. How is it that the Englishman's powers of demonstration are decreased? How is it that his national ardour is checked? Does this bright African sun of ours dry up his hereditary enthusiasm, or do the cares and struggles of the colonist's life abate his ancestral susceptibilities? Be this as it may, however though the on-looking citizens keep their mouths sealed and their heads covered, the business of the day proceeds. The entire force, both infantry and cavalry, march round and round past his Excellency. Then they execute more intricate evolutions. They separate into detachments, they form into squares, they take distance, they take cover,they fire a succession of occasional shots at an imaginary enemy.
Then they fall in and make tremendous charges, driving before them legions of screaming boys and troops of ecstatic natives. Meanwhile, the two mounted corps move helter skelter, with what object the uninitiated spectator doth not perceive. The fight has lasted about two hours and is apparently still as far from an issue as ever, when a new and unexpected enemy makes his appearance.
Dark clouded squadrons have been gathering for sometime pass over Zwarts Kop, and rain begins to pour forth upon the embattled plain. An immediate rout is the consequence. The waggons, inspan and rattle off, the hosemen race homewards, the pedestrians take to their heels and fly, the armed forces beat a rapid retreat, - British soldiers do that before the inexorable elements which they are never known to do before a human foe, - they hurriedly retire. A few minutes more and the field is deserted, the bare hill is itself once more.
Natalians have, by being present, shown their loyality, and have tacitly declared the fact that in spite of time and distance, in spite of lifes changes, Victoria the great and good, is still their unquestioned Queen.

BIRTHS
May 19, at Durban,
Mrs. J.T. ALLISON, of a son
May 20, at Durban,
Mrs. W.H. CULLINGWORTH,of a son
May 20, at Sandhill Farm, Mrs. G. HILLARY, of a daughter May 18, at Prospect, the wife of J. BICKHILL, of a son June 6, at Durban, Mrs. F. BELL, of a son June 7, at Colenzo, Tugela, Mrs. CRAW, of a daughter May 19, at Richmond, Mrs. H.J.C. HUTTON, of a son At Kettle Fontein, Mrs. G. FRANKLIN, of a daughter June 1, at Durban, the wife of the Rev. W.H.C. Lloyd, of a son
 
MARRIAGES
May 26,at Pietermaritzburg, Charles Tebbutt BELL, Government Surveyor, to Portia Victoria Palema, only daughter of T.H.E. Okes, of Pietermaritzburg May 21, at Durban, W. Law, eldest son of Mr. J. Torry HESTER, to Maria, third daughter of Mr. A.
KEMP.
May 11, at Kettle Fontein, Thomas, youngest son of the Rev. J. METHLEY, to Elizabeth Martin, youngest daughter of the late A. HAIR.
 
COMMERCIAL- IMPORT MARKETS
Coals - There have been two or three small parcels of 50 tons.
Beer - Market very fully supplied
Tea - No arrivals this month. Stocks still large Tobacco - 700 boxes Cavendish and 158 bales of leaf tobacco came to hand.
The market is now stocked and tobacconists fully supplied Timber - Arrivals this month inconsiderable
Staves- Demand dull
Soap - 5,450 boxes Liverpool, ex Princess, 400 boxes London, 700 boxes American.
Hops - American, 20 bales received. Market heavy.
Wheat - No foreign arrivals during the month.
Candles - 75 boxes and stock fast reducing Salt -Stocks very low and receipts this month limited to 200 bags.
Tallow - Foreign arrivals of this article, 8 casks only, and in good demand

5 September 1859

The Royal Mail steam ship Dane, belonging to the Union Company arrived at Southampton on Friday last. She left Table Bay 23rd July and brings 16 passengers, 10,000pounds in specie, and a cargo of wine, wool, horns and sundries.
Passengers –
Mr. COATES
Mr. TRIMER,
Mr. AKERMAN
Capt. CHAPMAN
Mr. PEYTON
Mrs. SCOTT
Mr. LEIGHTON
Rev. Mr. & Mrs. BANKES
Mr. HICKMAN,
Colonel MALLOCK
Mrs. CLYDESDALE and child
Mr. BIRMINGHAM

The Catherine of 539 tons, Captain Joseph Ginder, sailed on the 4th August from Southampton for Algoa Bay, with 239 emigrants, under charge of Surgeon-Superintendent James Robert Turner. These emigrants were selected by the Hon. William Field, the Commissioner specially appointed by the Cape colony to conduct emigration. The emigrants were composed of 41 married couples, with 69 children, 63 single men, 25 single women, 116 were English, 84 Scotch and 39 Irish. The religious instructor is Mr. Griffith JONES.

On the 12th inst. There were embarked at Liverpool, under the superintendence of the Hon. Mr. Field, in the ship Matilda Atheling, for Table Bay, 288 emigrants, equal to 255 statute adults. They are principally agricultural labourers and female domestic servants, with some country masons, blacksmiths and joiners. They comprise also 53 statute adults under engagement with Messrs. PICKERING, contractors for the Cape Town Railway.

The Bermondsey of 507 tons, belonging to Messrs. Wilson and Cooke, Captain Abbott, sailed on the 25th ult. from Southampton for Algoa Bay, with 230 emigrants . 36 married couples, 72 souls, 69 single men, 24 women, 25 boys under 12, 30 girls under 12, 10 infants. 116 English, 56 Scotch and 58 Irish.

On the 2nd instant the John and Lucy embarked at Birkenhead, for Table Bay with 406 souls. 57 married couples, 173 single males, 46 single females, 28 boys and 29 girls under 14 and 16 infants.

WESTERN PROVINCE

(From our own Correspondent ) Cape Town, July 23, 1859
The event of the past month, which is now exclusively engrossing public attention, is the recall of Sir George Grey from the Government of the Cape of Good Hope. The dispatch  announcing it was in a mail-bag that had been overlooked, and it was early on the day after the Celt’s arrival, that the dispatch was received. It would be difficult to describe the sensation produced when it became known. Sir George was just preparing to embark for England, on leave, in H.M. steam ship Perseverance, which sails today, but he has now decided upon remaining here until the arrival of his successor. No time was lost in calling a public meeting of the inhabitants to decide upon the best means of conveying to his Excellency the expression of the colony’s sympathy and esteem. The meeting was attended by persons of every shade of political opinion.

There is no doubt that his Excellency will be inundated with addresses from every part of the colony. The evening before last a grand Masonic dress ball was given in the Commercial Exchange, at which both Sir George, who is a Mason, and Lady Grey were present.

The attention of the public is now fully directed to the formation of the railways and other works of utility. A company has been formed for a railway between Cape Town and Wynberg, and the survey for a railway between Port Elizabeth and Grahams Town is on the point of being commenced. The foundation stone of the new patent slip and docks at Simon’s Town was laid by his Excellency the Governor, with great ceremony, on the 12th instant.

The following extracts from a letter addressed by the Emigration Agent to Mr. Field will give all the information respecting the emigrants who arrived here in the Bride –

The immigrants per the Bride have all taken employment, and with the exception of a few, have quitted the depot – those remaining being the parents of children suffering from measles.
The wages obtained by most of them are quite equal to former rates.
With regard to farm labourers, the board considers, it most undesirable that such immigrants should be encumbered with large families, and particularly with any number of young children, such operating as a hindrance to their obtaining ready employment, and when they do meet employment, the wages they receive are sometimes so inadequate to meet their expenses that they naturally feel dissatisfied and become disheartened.

The fox hounds have been brought into the field creditably this season. The majority of them are young, but all are healthy, in good condition, and they go well together. They are completely under command, and in cover they range cleverly and work with great eagerness. The "whips" are well mounted. Both ride gallantly. On Friday, the 1st instant, the pack met at Figkraal at seven a.m.. As the sun rose dispelled a heavy fog, the hounds settled down to their work in the bush, scouring hither and thither and at times giving tongue. Several foxes had been about during the night, and nothing could be prettier than the bustling activity of the pack as they ranged around for the latest evidence of the marauder. Presently Vixen, Sempstress, and Baronet proclaimed that they were close upon him, and others joined in the chorus and the pack began to mend. Reynard rattled away for a couple of miles, sometimes along a waggon path, then dodging suddenly to right or left amongst the bush; but his tricks were of no avail. A spur of white sand, which has rolled on year after year, has now approached the eighth milestone, covering the bush with its sickly glare. At the last point of this sand is a cluster of dense shrubs, out topping the horsemen and impenetrable to the rider. Reynard ran through this, then made a circuit on the sand to baffle the hounds, and craftily returning, threw herself into the thicket. But the hounds were not prepared for this trifling. With a burst of music which the sportsman loves, they forced her out, and now begins our run. Watches are taken out and the time noted; hunting caps are pressed firmly down and hands, held low, firmly grip the reins, whilst the voice rings out, " hark to Vixen; hark to Sempstress; yooi, at him; yooi, good hounds!" For a mile Reynard rattled along the bushy knolls which skirt the sand, then plunged boldly into the open, heading for Eerste River. The pace was severe; the riders could only hold their own. The fox scarcely swerved from his line, which was daringly taken overgrass land but it soon became evident that she was going straight for the rock earth trusting to speed alone. Here a grassy plain extends for miles whitish rocks cropping out at intervals over its full compas. Then a wide plain, devastated by bush-fire and soon to be a sandy desert. , " Tally-ho " for the first time,—the fox well ahead and going strongly. Reynard, at view, struggled into a piece of bloembush-cover. She was, however, soon forced through, and after a few brief and ineffectual rings, was run into in presence of the field, after one hour and five minutes of as glorious a run as ever was seen in this colony. The waves were breaking on the shore of False Bay within one mile and a half of the spot; and thus this speedy run could not have been less than fourteen miles, without a check for one moment .  Argus 5 July.

The following account of the mission station of Kuruman is extracted from a frontier paper –
The fine mission station of Kuruman, comprising some 400 acres, was purchased some thirty or forty years ago by the agent of the London Missionary Society from the chief Mothibi, for £50 worth of beads, at that time a high price. Buildings constructed of blue limestone and timber, formerly conveyed from Magalesberg, have been raised to the value of about £6,000, not to mention the cost of an enormous watercourse. Both sides of the Great Valley are covered with native and mission gardens, irrigated by the splendid stream.

The committee of the Mechanics’ Institute announce that classes for working men, apprentices, and others are about to be opened forthwith. The Superintendent- General of Education, who takes great interest in the progress of such an institution as that which has now been established nearly six years, has consented to devote a portion of his evenings for the instruction of carpenters, builders and masons in the philosophy of their respective trades, that they may connect theory with practice.  
Mr ASHLEY will open a class for vocal music and Mr. BASTOCK is ready to commence his course of lessons in arithmetic and penmanship.

BIRTHS

July 7 at Phillipolis, Mrs. W.J. CROSSLEY, of a son.
May 15, at Cape Town, Mrs. M.T. KING, of a son
June 19, at Green Point, Mrs. James CHAPMAN, of a son
June 18, at Knysna, Mrs. W. M’PHERSON, of a son.
July 1, at Sea Point, Mrs James KING, of a daughter

MARRIAGES

June 20, at Zuurbraak, Malcolm, youngest son of the late Benjamin MOODIE, of Grootvadersbosch, to Johanna Charlotte, eldest daughter of the Rev. D. HELM.
June 9, at Cape Town, Mr James WILLIAMS, to Miss Emma SMITH
June 30, at Cape Town, Mr Francis BURKE, to Miss Bridget Augusta KEATING
July 18, at Franschhoek, Julius Constant De Boer MAZIER, to Regina Magdalena HAM, widow of the late A.A. DE VILLIERS.

July 5, at Rondebosch, Lieutenant W.B. STUBBS, eldest son of the late W.T. STUBBS, 48th Regiment, to Frances Ann, eldest daughter of Mr. George STEVENS.

DEATHS

July 12, at George Town, J.M.C. CORNUEL, aged 48 years
July 12, at Cape Town, Mary, wife of Mr. R. THOMAS, aged 50 years
July 14, at Cape Town, John, son of Captain R.H. ALLAN
July 17, at Cape Town, Jane, widow of the late Mr. M. ADAMS, aged 48 years
June 30, at Cape Town, John, son of Mr. R.C. JONES, ages 20 years
June 23,at Cape Town, Mr. James EVANS, aged 39 years
June 28, at Cape Town, Mr. Simon LUCAS, aged 37 years
June 24, at Cape Town, Mary Ann,daughter of Mr. G. HOLLOWAY.
June 6, at Cape Town, Mr John Hinton, aged 33 years.

EASTERN PROVINCE

The Schah Jehan, 757 tons, J.A. COX, commander arrived here with 288 emigrants on Friday last, the 8th inst. after a fine passage from Southampton of 67 days. There have been no deaths during the voyage, but the number has been increased by three births.
A large proportion of the emigrants by this vessel are “permit” cases, and these were at once received on landing by their relatives or friends, entailing no more expense on the funds and relieving the Immigration Board of all further trouble on their behalf. The other emigrants on being landed were at once taken to the depot. Many have already met with engagements and most of the others are only waiting for means of transport to the inner districts. In this, as in mercantile affairs, the great difficulty of obtaining conveyance is severely felt. Waggons are not procurable, and for the few that do offer exorbitant rates of carriage must be paid.

A destructive fire occurred here on Sunday, 3rd inst, whereby the premises of Messrs. JAMES and ABLETT, in Thompson street, were burnt to the ground. The building was a wooden shed used a carpenter’s shop, and was insured for £250, in the Guardian Office, but the loss of property, it is estimated, will be pretty nearly double that amount. Another shed on the opposite side of the street, the property of Mr. J.S. DISTIN, also caught fire, and, for the prompt and active exertions of several persons who at once collected on the spot, would have been entirely destroyed. A dwelling house adjoining had a narrow escape, and considering the quarter of the town in which this fire originated and the quantity of deals and other inflammable property in the immediate neighbourhood, it is fortunate the damage done was not greater. It would undoubtedly have been so but for the two new fire engines lately imported by the local insurance offices, which, under the management of Mr. ARCHIBALD, the town engineer, did good service. But the want of a regularly organsied body of men as a fire brigade was much felt. A good deal of confusion prevailed at the outset, and the result was the loss of valuable time. Of the long talked of fire brigade, only two members presented themselves and offered their services. Messrs. D. CRABB and Bernard LEE distinguished themselves on this occasion by their indefatigable exertions, and their conduct was officially brought to the notice of the municipal authorities, who instructed a vote of thanks to these gentlemen to be recorded on their minutes.

The schools in connection with the Grey Institute were re-opened on Monday last. In the high school, under the charge of Mr. MACLEISH, 56 pupils were enrolled, and under Mr. WEBB, in the elementary school, there are 49 scholars receiving tuition. Both these schools during the past quarter have been conducted with ability and success, and the institution is proving a most valuable one to Port Elizabeth.
The Bethel at the foot of Jetty street is nearly completed, and will be opened for Divine service shortly. This building having been placed at the disposal of the board of managers of the Grey Institute, it is intended shortly to establish a day school there for the use of the children of a large number of families in the immediate neighbourhood.

The Circuit Court at Uitenhage sat on the 7th inst. and its proceedings were closed same day. There were very few cases for trial, either criminal or civil and none of great interest. There were only six criminal cases – several of the prisoners having escaped from the gaol.
It has been a remarkably quiet circuit – too quiet by far for the lawyers, who are complaining that this state of things will not pay.

A very fine oil painting by COBBETT has just been received by Mr. DU TOIT, from the Glasgow Art Union, and is now on view at his office. This picture is the prize of the Rev. Mr. St. LEGER, one of  the subscribers to the society, and is worth a hundred guineas. It is one of the finest works of art yet brought into the colony.

The election of a member of House of Assembly in the room of Mr. BILLINGHAM, deceased, takes place this day. On the 22nd ult., the day fixed for the election, there were three candidates in the field viz – Messrs. ASPELING, DOBSON and STRETCH. A poll was demanded on behalf on Mr. Stretch.

The horse sickness, prevails to such an extent in the Cape district that the daily mails to Paarl, Tulbach and Wellington have been discontinued and in future will run only three times a week.
It has been determined to form an Agricultural Society in Queenstown, as the promoters frankly admit that our system of agriculture is but little advanced since the days of Van Riebeck, we plough, sow, and reap as the Cape Dutch did then.

INTERESTING DISCOVERY – There recently arrived in the Peri, and we believe are now laying at the South Wharf, five brass guns, respecting the history of which some interest has been excited. They were accidentally discovered in Walwich Bay, about 20 miles to the south of Zwartkop River, imbedded in the sand, by a trader named WILSON, who turned them up one after another while driving down his cattle to give them a sea bath. Two of the guns are rather a plain description, while the other three are somewhat ornamented. They seem to be twelve pounders, bear the Royal Arms of Spain, and the date of 1800. Near the mouth of three of the pieces there is a scroll work, on which there are the words “San Juan” and it is supposed that they were the quarter-deck guns of a Spanish man of war. We are told the natives have a tradition to the effect that years ago a vessel with “dark white men” on board was wrecked on the reef outside, and that the survivors put to sea on a raft and were never heard of again. Some further investigations are to be made on the spot with the view of obtaining a clue as to what the vessel was. The guns, we understand are to be forwarded to England.

Several business failures have occurred in King Williamstown consequent upon embarrassments in the colony, with which the trade of that town is so intimately connected. The inhabitants have recently held a bazaar to discharge the debt of the Episcopal Church. The handsome sum of £ 400 was realized, an amount that no similar effort in the colony has ever reached.

A private letter has been received from Kuruman, which contains information of the death of one of the missionaries’ ladies and child. It states –

Peace is still being enjoyed, and fears, for the present, are lulled. We hear that the Boer commando started, but a division in council caused a retreat. Rumour speaks of a five years peace. Mrs. SYKES has given birth to a son, but he lived only two days, since then, the mother relapsed and unfavourable symptoms were manifest. After lingering in extreme pain, and at times, unconsciousness, at eight a.m. on Thursday, the 15th May, she fell asleep in Him who was her stay and trust. One day, previous to her death, she remarked, “What should I do without the stronghold? God is very gracious and indulgent to me. He has helped me a long time, and he will help me a little longer”. And thus, resting her hopes on her Savior, she departed to her inheritance amongst the saints in light.

BIRTHS

June 8, at Graham’s Town, Mrs. Alfred BENN, of George, of a son.
June 21, at Spring Grove, Mrs. E.D. WEBSTER, of a son.
July 5, at Queenstown, Mrs. Daniel BRADFIELD, of a daughter.

MARRIAGES

July 6, at Somerset East, Mr. John TUDHOPE, of King William’s Town, to Mary Georgina Magdalena, third daughter of the Rev. John PEARS.
June 15, at Graham’s Town, William Webber MARTIN, to Frances Sarah, youngest daughter of the late F.A. ALCOCK, of Uitenhage.

DEATHS

June 17, at Cradock, George Edward, son of Mr. Charles MALLET.
June 15, at Reed Fountain, Mr. Joseph WRIGHT, aged 61years
June 26, at Graham’s Town, Mrs. William POTTER, aged 71 years
At Maasdorp, Sarah Ann, wife of Mr. William BEAN, aged 65 years
June 30, at Bathurst, William George, only son of Mr.J.G. WOOD
July 8, at Graham’s Town, Mrs. Isabella TONWAY, aged 72 years
July 10, at Port Elizabeth, the wife of Mr. William WATSON.
July 2, at Colesberg, Jane Anne, wife of Mr. J.D. BURNES, aged 21 years.

NATAL

Intelligence is unusually devoid of topics of importance.

BIRTHS

June 15, at Stella, Mrs. H.G. KNOX, of a son
June 25, at Umhloti, Mrs. W. CAMPBELL, of a daughter
June 30, at Durban, Mrs. Thomas GREEN, of a daughter
July 6, at Durban, the wife of Mr. H. GILLESPIE, of a daughter
June 2, at Umhlali, Mrs. E. COWARD, of a daughter
June 20, at Durban Mrs. R.J. THOMAS, of a daughter

MARRIAGES

June 30, at Durban, Henry Thomas, second son of Mr. TUNMER, to Caroline Y., second daughter of Dr. HUME
June 30, at Durban, Arthur, second son of the late Mr. R. SPENCER, to Miss Martha Elizabeth SAUNDERS

DEATHS

June 9, at Durban, Katherine Stantial, daughter of Mr. J.W. ACKERMAN
June 14, at Pietermaritzburg, Edward Goodeve GOBLE

1 October 1859

The Royal Mail steam ship Celt, Captain Brown, belonging to the Union Company, arrived at Plymouth on the 26th ult., having left  Table Bay August 21, and brings the following passengers-

His Excellency Sir George GREY and Lady Grey and two servants.
Lord and Lady John TAYLOR, two children and nurse
Mr. SERRURIER
Mrs. EVERLEIGH
Mr. BERGTHEIL
Mr. JORDAN
Captain PRICE
Mr. & Mrs. CROLL
Miss. HALSON
Rev. J. HARSANT
Mr. S. TOY

True to her day, the Norman was signalised, and such of your readers as are familiar with the Cape will be able to realise the scene I describe, hundreds of the first inhabitants crowding the causeway and quay waiting the return of the port boat, and the moment the port captain touches the shore the eager inquiries from all sides, "Who is our new Governor?" Imagine our surprise at the answer - "They know nothing of Sir George's recall in England!". Later in the day his Excellency informed one of the deputations, on presenting an address, that his despatches did not in the smallest degree refer to his recall or successor. All this has afforded strong hopes that his services may yet be retained to the colony, and public meetings were immediately called to petition the Queen on the subject. The Celt takes home several, that from Cape Town alone being signed by 2,272 persons, while that from the Fingoes who certainly owe the Governor a great debt of gratitude, is quite a curiosity in its way.

The last public act of Sir George GREY has been to lay the foundation stone of the new general hospital and infirmary. In performing a task so congenial to his feelings, the inhabitants determined to make it the occasion of paying him another tribute of respect by observing it as a close holiday. The arrangements made were excellent, and it was one of the gayest and most brilliant assemblages ever witnessed at the Cape. Upwards of ten thousand people, it is estimated, were present. But the enthusiasm then evinced was nothing compared to that with which his Excellency was greeted to-day on his embarcation for England. There was not a circumstance omitted which could possibly add to the effect. Triumphal arches, with appropriate mottoes, were erected at the causeway. Banners and flags were hung across the streets and flying in every direction. The whole length of the principal street was lined on each side by the Masons, Odd Fellows, Cape Mounted Rifles, H.M'S 59th Regiment, and the Volunteer Cavalry and Rifles. All the shops were closed and business entirely suspended. After holding a levee, at which both Sir Grey and Lady Grey shook hands with and bade farewell to every individual present, they entered their carriage and proceeded to the wharf. On reaching Aderley street (the tops of the houses, windows, and balconies being thronged with ladies waving their adieus), the horses were taken out of the carriage and it was drawn down to the wharf by some of the first inhabitants. On leaving the jetty, salutes were fired from the castle and the battery of the Volunteer Artillery and Sir George and Lady Grey, who were both much affected, were accompanied on board by many of the inhabitants.

All the vessels in the bay, as well as the boats, had their colours flying, and the strains of music and firing of cannon rendered the scene on of the most enlivening the Cape has ever witnessed. On reaching the steamer, Sir George called the volunteers on board and after again shaking hands with each of them, three cheers were given and returned, and thus ended the greatest ovation ever paid to any individual in the history of the colony.

WESTERN PROVINCE

The railway works are making good progress, the first locomotive and a portion of the rails being daily expected.

A cheap meat company has been established in Cape Town, and the butchers have in consequence been compelled to reduce their charges.

The number of horses shipped to India by the Remount Agency has been 5,394 and 104 mules. The casualties at sea have been under 3.5 per cent.

THE HALF-HOLIDAY MOVEMENT - A meeting of working men was held in the Town Hall on Thursday night, for the purpose of taking into consideration the best means of procuring a general half-holiday. It was numerously attended and several masters were present. Mr. ROBERTS was called to the chair, and Mr. MASON proposed that a committee be appointed to consider the subject with power to appoint a deputation to wait on the masters to solicit them to grant the boon craved. A long and animated discussion followed, and while some of those present thought it would be better to ask only a quarter day, others were in favour of throwing out the half or quarter holiday on Saturday, and going for nine instead of ten  hours labour each day. Ultimately, Mr. MASON's motion was carried, and Messrs. CAVE, ROSE, MASON, WIGGET, NEWMAN, CRAMONT, FRASER, COLLINS, and ROBERTS were appointed as the committee.

CAPE WINE - The following extract of a letter from England to a Cape resident has been handed to us-

"Please mention to Mr. LEIBBRANDT that his wine was declared as being the best on sale, and brought the highest price in the running market, although no profits - but it shows that good wine will always sell, but only one thing I find fault in, and that is the Cape wine merchants give too high a price to the farmers, so that they cannot sell to the shippers at such a price to make it worth while. The expenses are greater on wine."

BIRTHS

July 27, at Cape Town, the wife of the Hon. Rawson W. RAWSON, of a son.
July 29, at Cape Town, Mrs. R. SANDERS, of a son, premature,
August 4, at Beaufort West, Mrs. James DALE, of a son.

MARRIAGES

On 28th July, at Rondebosch, Henry A. EBDEN, M.D. Bengal Army, youngest son of J.B. EBDEN, to Laura Henrietta, third daughter of the late L.H. TWENTYMAN

August 4, Mr. J.R. ABBOT, to Miss. Elizabeth MARTIN

DEATHS

July 24, at Cape Town, Mary Jane, only daughter of R. DOBSON, aged 3 years
July 30, at Cape Town, Mrs. Bridella GLYNN, aged 69 years
August 2, at Wynberg, Mr. Thomas SHANNON, aged 52 years.
July 20, at Green Point, Maria Josephine, wife of Mr. J. LE BRUN, aged 30 years
July 23, at Cape Town, Alfred William BAKER
July 25, at Sans Souci, Celina Ernestine, infant daughter of P.G. VAN DER BYL, aged 3 years
July 31, Aletta Johanna Hester, eldest daughter of B. DANEEL, and wife of Mr. G.M. STEWART, aged 32 years
August 10, at Cape Town, Johanna Elizabeth, wife of Mr. H.P, DE VILLIERS, aged 70 years.
August 13, at Cape Town, Marie S.F., relict of M. VAN BREDA, aged 65 years.

EASTERN PROVINCE

The trade of this province, since our last summary, has been dull, yet transactions to a moderate extent have occurred, and owing to the difficulties of procuring transport of goods from Algoa Bay stocks are considerably reduced. In breadstuffs the market has been bare.

The arrivals during the month have been the Burlington, to Table Bay, with 276 immigrants, and the Coldstream to Algoa Bay with 253. Some of the former complain that their destination was Algoa Bay, and the Commissioner sent them to Table Bay to make up the vessels complement, but under promise that the colonial authorities would forward them coastwise to Port Elizabeth. This the Cape Town board has refused to do, and some permit cases actually find themselves set down in a strange land 800 miles from their friends, and penniless. The Governor will undoubtedly offer these people a free passage to Algoa Bay.

The roads in this province under the superintendence of Mr. A.G. BAIN, are rapidly improving. An excellent road has been opened from King Williams Town to this city. The Beaufort, Cradock and Graaff-Reinet roads are also much improved and the formidable pass, Woest's Hill, which for many years has almost cut off our coast country from us, has been subjected to great improvements. The bridge over the Konap River is progressing rapidly, that over Fish River at Espags is in abeyance, owing to some official mismanagement, that over Little Fish River, near Somerset, is to be constructed by contract without delay.

Port Elizabeth has formed a company with a capital of 20,000pounds to supply the town and shipping with water. The Algoa Bay Watering Company have held their annual meeting, where it was shown that a new tank boat had been built and further facilities for supplying vessels provided.

The foundation stone of the new patent slip in Simon's Bay has been laid by the Governor with great eclat.

SHOOTING A TIGER - Mr.W.G.B. SHEPSTONE was proceeding towards Queenstown on Saturday last, he encountered a large tiger in the Queens road, which he fortunately shot.

We have been favoured with the following particulars extracted from a letter addressed to a friend in Graham's Town -

Fort Brown July 23, 1859  -
As we were coming up this side of the Exxa, at the first turn of the road, about half past two p.m. what should we see at the distance of 50 yards, walking in the middle of the road, but a splendid tiger. When he saw us he stood still and quietly surveyed us, but move out of the road he would not. I then said to Mengo, It is time for action, as that gentleman means mischief, but to my horror, my gun-tackle was packed away in the saddle bags. I told Mengo to get it. Just as I got the powder, which occupied some time, the tiger moved slowly off into the bush, and we rode up the old road to avoid contact with him. We were then riding, disgusted at our want of forethought in not, having the gun loaded, and hence losing so splendid a skin, when Mengo on looking round, said quietly - Oh, here he is coming after us. My gun was still unloaded and he only about 40 yards behind us. I therefore had to be particular as to the quantity of powder I put into my rifle,
so as to make a true and mortal shot, but before I could get the second cap on, he slunk away into the bush, where I was not going to follow him. I then rode on, and when nearly at the top of the hill turned and saw a single horseman coming from town, and feared the tiger might attack him. Mengo immediately concurred with me that we had better go back, and we did so, when we saw our foe sitting on his haunches in the old waggon road. He looked at me as coolly as possible and then looked towards the person coming from town, who proved to be Dr. GREY.  I set down on the edge of the scarped road and prepared to take aim, the tiger being about 150 yards off. He rose just as I pulled the trigger, and fell on his back lifeless. He was about the handsomest I ever saw, a fine male. When he lay on the ground he looked like a golden model. It was as much as Mengo and I could do to carry him a short distance, and as we had no spare horse we were obliged to skin him, but I have kept the skin and the head. It was one just in his prime, and good nine feet in length.

Good schools have recently been opened in King Williams Town, for young persons of both sexes. One of these is conducted by a German, in whose school, English, German and French are taught.

BIRTHS

July 23, at Victoria West, Mrs. H. WILLIAMS, of a son.
August 10, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs. G.M. COLE, of a daughter.
August 12, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs. F.H. CARPENTER, of a daughter
July 24, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs. E.H. SHEPHERD, of a son
July 18, at Burghersdorp, Mrs. Otto PETERS, of a son.
July 21, at Graaff-Reinet, Mrs. G.VAN RYNEVELD, of a son.

MARRIAGES

July 27, at Port Elizabeth, Richard DANIELL, of Cape Town, to Ann, daughter of George UBSDELL, of Port Elizabeth
August 1, at Bloemhof, Walter Everitt, youngest son of Mr. Alfred MURRAY, to Anna Elizabeth, eldest daughter of George SOUTHEY
July 27, at Durban, Gilbert John, youngest son of the late Charles SMITH, to Maria Berendina Letterstedt, second daughter of Dr. H. Hobart GIRD.

DEATHS

July 27, at Graaff-Reinet, Maria Johanna, wife of G. VAN RYNEVELD, and daughter of A. BERRANGE, aged 24 years
July 19, at Amsterdam Flats, Mr. A. HART, aged 53 years
August 10, at Port Elizabeth, Miss. Elizabeth MURRIN, aged 25 years
August 13, at Port Elizabeth, Miss Elizabeth HUGHES, aged 27 years.

NATAL

Silver, it is announced, has been discovered. The ore in which it is found yields the precious metal in a large proportion and a ring had been already manufactured from Natal silver.

By a letter from the Zulu country, dated 18th July, we learn that the upper parts fo the country are depopulated by the flight of the inhabitants into Natal for protection against the fierce internecine strife that prevails. Six chiefs, with their people and cattle have gone into the Buffalo River, Boer district. Panda has lost his best supporters, and is now quite powerless. Some Dutch Boers have been to him lately and swindled him out of cattle by promising to protect him against his son, Ketchwayo. The "Intombi" trade (in young girls) is brisker than ever.

BIRTHS

August 3, at Pietermaritzburg, the wife of Captain M. BARTON, of a daughter
July 4, at Durban,  Mrs. W. SMERDON, of a daughter
July 8, at Durban, Mrs. J.F. KAHTS, of a son
July 24, at Durban, Mrs. H.E. STAINBANK, of a daughter
July 12, at Durban, Mrs. T.P. JAMES, of a daughter
July 22, Mrs. W.J.D. MOODIE, of a daughter
July 27, at Maritzburg, Mrs. R. KINCADE, of a daughter
July 29, Mrs. C. M'DONALD, of a daughter
July 30, at New Devon, Zulu Country, Mrs. E. RATHBONE, of a son
July 11, at Weenan, Mrs. John MACFARLANE, of a son
July 18, at Durban, Mrs. D.F. WHITTAKER, of a son.

MARRIAGES.

July 25, at Durban, Mr. James MOORE, to Miss. Elizabeth PEARSE.
August 3, at Durban, the Rev. Frederick MASON, to Maria, third daughter of the late John P. GILLESPIE
August 3, at Durban, Mr. Edward LELLO, to Ellen, daughter of Mr. C. BRISTOW.
July 7, at Caversham, Thomas Nettleship, eldest son of the Rev. J. JACKSON, to Mary Pike, only daughter of J. HODSON.

DEATHS

July 15, at Maritzburg, Georgina Caroline, fourth daughter of John GRICE, aged 17 years.
July 19, at Umgent, the infant daughter of Mr. DUPONT.

1 November 1859

The Royal Mail steam ship Phoebe, Capt. Clarke, with the English mails of the 6th August, arrived in Table Bay on the 10th Sept., having made a remarkably quick passage of 34.5 days.
The Royal Mail steam ship Norman, Capt. Boxer, belonging to the Union Company, arrived at Plymouth on the 26th inst., after a rapid passage of 36 days. Her dates are, Table Bay, Sept. 20, St. Helena, Sept 30, and Ascension, Oct 4. She brings the following passengers -
Mr. J. SHEPHERD
Miss. SHEPHERD
Mr. and Mrs. ANSDELL
Mrs. HICKS, four children and servant
Captain DEMPSTER
Dr. KONEDKA
Mrs. EASTON,
Mr. WYLIE
Mr. EADENSJOHN
Mr. MOSS for St. Helena
The Jalawar, 726 tons, Captain ROCHEFORT, chartered by the Emigration Commissioners, sailed from Birkenhead, on the 2nd Oct. for Table Bay, with 21 married couples, 77 single men, 65 single women, 17 boys between the ages of 1 and 12, 15 girls between the same ages, 5 male infants and 1 female, making a total of 222 souls, 62 of whom were English, 2 Scotch and 158 Irish under the charge of Surgeon- Superintendent Alexander Cumming.
The Early Morn was loading at Natal for London and was expected to sail about the middle of October with a full cargo of produce and several passengers.
The Maynards sailed from Downs for Algoa bay on the 21st instant, with a full cargo and the following passengers -
Mr. and Mrs. WIGGELL
Mrs. RIDSDALE

WESTERN PROVINCE

The arrival of the mail steamer Phoebe, after a quick run of 34 days, with the intelligence of Sir George Grey's recall having been cancelled, has opened up a new topic which has occupied the attention of the public to the exclusion of almost every other subject.

In our more social and domestic affairs, the good people of the Cape have been quietly "pursuing the even tenor of their way," for despite a long continued drought in the upper districts of the colony, from whence we draw our cattle supplies, and the consequent dearness of provisions, the wealth and trade of the colony has been steadily increasing and the public works of the colony carried with enhanced vigour.

Our railway is proceeding somewhat slowly, owing to want of labour. The first locomotive with a portion of the plant has arrived and with the 300 navvies hourly expected, Messrs. Pickering, the contractors are stated to be confident that the first 21 miles will be completed and opened within six months.

A successful attempt has been made to introduce English fresh water fish at the Cape, and several varieties will shortly be added if the experiment continues successful.

THE MAIL STEAMERS SERVICE - The admirable manner of conducting the present line of small steamers, by the agents here, as well as by the directors of the company and their commanders, all of whom are well up in their duty, is a matter of congratulations to all parties. Those who live in Cape Town, and who enjoy privileges from these mails which it is impossible to extend to other towns in the colony, see the benefits which we derive from the working line much clearer than persons living at a greater distance.
We have on more than one occasion applauded the commanders of the steamers, who are, without exception, admirable men and excellent sailors, and we have never yet seen occasion to remark upon the company other than approvingly. But it is the agents here that we owe many of the conveniences which we now enjoy.  The steamers are no sooner at anchor in Table Bay than they and their representatives are on board, and when the mails are dispatched, the agents are the last to leave the steamers. Everything is done under their personal superintendence. Such things as mistakes are seldom or never heard of.
Last Saturday, by arrangement of the agents and attention on the part of the commander (Capt. Clarke) the Librarian of Public Library (Mr. MASKEW) received all the English periodicals within an hour after the steamer anchored, and Mr. ROBERTSON, the bookseller, was enabled to distribute his monthly parcel of periodicals long before the omnibuses left town for the country.
Whilst upon this subject, we feel bound to acknowledge the immense improvements which have lately been effected in the General Post Office. it was quite cheering  on Saturday to see so much life and spirit throughout the place. The growing demand for English news shows that we are getting nearer and nearer to the civlised world. It is the old story of Sam Slick's clocks over again. Before people knew the value of news, they never thought about it. Once let them enjoy it, and the appetite grows upon what it feeds on.

BANKRUPTCY COURT - Insolvencies declared
31 Aug - John PATRICK of Grahams Town, brewer
02 Sep - Hermanus Isaac DEMPERS of Stellenbosch, trader
02 Sep - William Sebastian DE VOS, P. son of the Paarl, tinsmith
03 Sep - James Thomas Owen LONG.
03 Sep - Alexander FERGUSON and William ARTHUR, trading under the style or firm of FERGUSON AND ARTHUR
06 Sep - Dirk DE ROCK, of the Paarl

BIRTHS

Sept 5, at Swellendam, Mrs. J.D.K. REITZ, of a daughter
Sept.12 at Cape Town, Mrs. E. JONES, of a daughter
Aug. 26, at Cape Town, Mrs. W.J. WILLIAMS, of a daughter

MARRIAGES

Sept. 7, at Cape Town, Mr. Jan C. SCHOLTZ, to Anna Elizabeth J.D., only daughter of J. ESTERHUYSEN
Aug. 15, at Cape Town, Mr. John ROWSELL, to Miss. Mary ABEL

DEATHS

Sept. 11, at Cape Town, Mr. James RAPPER, aged 46 years
Aug. 20, at Botelary, Mr. J.G. FISCHER, aged 62 years
Aug. 19, at Cape Town, Mr. P.A. VOSS, aged 22 years
Aug. 18, at Cape Town, Charles Jewam, infant son of C.R. EATON
Aug. 28, at Cape Town, Mrs. George BENSON, aged 27 years.

EASTERN PROVINCE

The quit-rents on lands are being collected by the Government with a vigourous hand, and as some of the farms have fallen 10 to 20 years in arrear, the present payment on them has become heavy. Central Road Board rates are also being collected by civil process.

We had no arrival of immigrants during the month, and as the drought has again set in and matters are dull, the delay is fortunate, as after rains fall employment of all kinds will be the more easily procured.  It appears the Emigration Commissioner has engaged 300 navvies for the railway.

Transport is still scarce and high in all parts of the country. Hundreds of tons of goods are awaiting in this city and in Port Elizabeth for conveyance to the inland towns.
Oxen are at present our only means of conveying loads. The plague of lung sickness has prevented the breeding of cattle being followed, the disease has carried off many thousands, troops are killed in transport of the colony, and others are starved to death from neglect of shelter or of winter fodder, or die from want of water because no dams are in existence.
BIRTHS

Aug. 22 at Fort England, the wife of Quartermaster, J. LANDNEY, of a son
Aug. 27, at Graaff-Reinet, Mrs. G.A. WATERMEYER, of a son
Aug. 21, at Grahams Town, Mrs. J.G. WOOD, of a daughter
At Groot Vley, the wife of R. RESTALL, of a daughter
Sep. 3, at Grahams Town, Mrs. George IMPEY, jun, of a son
Aug 23, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs. H. SCRIVENOR, of a daughter

MARRIAGES

Sep. 3, at Grahams Town, William Dunn, to Sarah Elizabeth, second daughter of the late J. HOWIE
Aug 30, at Grahams Town, Mr. James DEVINE, to Miss. Ellen ADAMS
Aug. 31, at Grahams Town, Mr. T.P. BERRY, to Matilda Mary, eldest daughter of Mr. T. BONE

DEATHS

Sep. 7, at Graaff-Reinet, Ann, wife of Mr. Thomas COLE, aged 63 years
Aug. 29, at Bedford, Maria J. Wilhelmina, wife of H. PAVER, of Zeerust, and daughter of the late F.J.A. METLERKAMP, aged 21 years
Sep. 6, at Port Elizabeth, Lillias C.M. only daughter of Mr. J. DORWARD
July  28, at Cradock, Mary, wife of Mr. E. GARDNER
Aug. 22, at Steenkamp Flat, Frederick George, infant son of Mr. H. WEBB
Sep. 1, at Grahams Town, G. PHILLIPS, aged 84 years
Aug. 28, at Colesberg, Mr. D. ARNOTT, sen, aged 64 years
Aug. 29, at Port Elizabeth, Mr. W. BOONE, aged 56 years
Aug. 15, at Port Elizabeth, Mr. J. LEWIS, aged 22 years.

NATAL

Rumours were current of the discovery of both gold and silver in different parts of the colony. The testing experiments were said to have been successful.

A steam tug has been built in England for the Government, which is intended to facilitate the shipping business and will also be fitted up with a rake for loosening the sand on the bar and thus assisting to deepen the channel. Two small screw steamers have also been ordered by private parties to ply along the coast and enter some of the rivers adjacent to the larger sugar estates, thus avoiding the difficulties of a tedious conveyance by ox waggons.

The plant for the railways was shortly expected, and the preparations for it were so forward that great hopes were entertained that Natal would be the first to inaugurate a railway in South Africa.

An electric telegraph between D'Urban and Maritzburg is talked about.

An action for slander was to be tried in the Supreme Court, the Rev. W.H.C. LLOYD is the plaintiff, and the Bishop of Natal the defendant.

BIRTHS

July 29, at Snaresbrook, Mrs.W.H. MIDDLETON, of a daughter
July 31, at Durban, Mrs. J. RAPSON, of a son
Aug.5, at Pietermaritzburg, Mrs. R. VAUSE, of a son
Aug. 20, at Durban, the wife of the Rev. G.Y. JEFFREYS, of a son
Aug. 8, at Pietermaritzburg, Mrs. John WATLING, of a son

MARRIAGES

Aug. 19, at Maritzburg, A.S. WINDHAM, to Juliet Alexa, eldest daughter of Colonel M'LEAN,
Aug. 11, at Durban, John Robert, eldest son, of the late Rev. J.L. LYS, to Olivia Selina, daughter of the late Lieut. FRY
Aug. 5, at Durban, Mr. GAVIN, to Jane, eldest daughter of Mr. HILLARY

DEATHS

Aug. 21, at Maritzburg, Alice Emily, infant daughter of E.F. M'GILL
Aug. 21, at Pietermaritzburg, Philip, son of Mr. J. PLAYER

1 December 1859

The Union Steam Navigation Company’s mail packet Phoebe, Commander Henry Clark, from Table Bay, October 22, arrived at Plymouth on Friday morning, having made an extraordinarily quick passage of 34 days.
The Phoebe brings the following passengers :-

Mr. KEMSLEY
Rev. Mr. HERCHMAN
Rev. J.  GLOVER
Mr. MASSELIN
Miss. GLOVER
Miss. MASSELIN
Capt. AKERS
Lieutenant SQUIRL
Rev. Mr. RAFFARA and Mrs. RAFFARRA
Mr. & Mrs. FLOWERS and five children
Mr. & Mrs. DECKER, two children and servant
Mrs. PHILLIPSON
Mr. VAN RENEU
Surgeon RYAN
Rev. Mr. BEFFY
Dr. PITT
Mr. T. PRINCE
Mrs. AKERS, four children
Captain GRAHAM
Captain MOLLER
Mr. SCHRIER
Mr. M’MIDER
Mr. HAMILTON
Capt. RICKARD
Corporal LANSEY and Mrs. LANSEY

The Lieutenant-Governor, General Waynard, had arrived in Cape Town from the frontier to conduct the administration of the Government during Sir George Grey’s absence in England, or pending the appointment of his successor.

The drought which had prevailed so long and so severely over the whole colony has broken up, and abundant rains have fallen in all directions. A drought so severe, we must warn our English readers, is by no means usual.

Algoa Bay has been visited with two terrific south-east gales on the 7th and 16th October. In the first of these, four vessels went ashore and were wrecked. In the second six were stranded. The loss is estimated at about £ 35,000.

WESTERN PROVINCE

I could not communicate any intelligence more gratifying than that the drought which has afflicted the colony from one end to the other, and with greater severity than for many years past, is now fairly broken, and the thirsty land has been refreshed with abundant rains throughout its length and breadth.
As may have been expected, the drought has been followed on the frontier by some severe storms, and Algoa Bay was visited by two terrible south-east gales on the 7th and 16th October, which, besides other damage suffered by the shipping, resulted in the loss of ten ships. On the first date, the Basiliea Roberts of Whitby, a regular Natal trader, the French barque Chasseur, Blanc from Mozambique, bound to Marseilles, the colonial brigantine, Witch of the Wave, and the condemned barque Surat, ran ashore and became total wrecks. On the 16th the gale was even more severe.
The Star of the East, which had just completed her loading of a valuable cargo of colonial produce for London, the Prince Woronzoff, loading for Liverpool, and the Lyme Regis, Governess, Arabian and Wigrams, all came on shore and, with the exception of the Lyme Regis, will all become total wrecks. Its is fortunate that, amidst all this fearful loss of property, I have not to record any loss of live, which has been mainly owing to the noble exertions of the Acting Port Captain, the crew of the life boat, and the assistance of the Port Elizabeth people.

In Table Bay, the season has fortunately passed over without a single wreck in consequence of the weather, the only casualty being a case of collision, which has afforded some work for the gentlemen of the long robe.
On this subject, I may mention a case decided by the Supreme Court the other day which has excited an unusual amount of interest. The Namaqua Mining Company affected insurance on cargo of copper ore per Admiral Collinwood, with three Cape Town offices, to the extent of £ 10,000. The insurers, having had their surveyor’s report as to the seaworthiness of the vessel, effected the insurance, and she sailed for Hondeklip Bay and Port Nottoth to take in ore for Swansea. After taking in 150tons she left the former for the latter place, where just as she was about completing her loading, she was found to be making a little water, but as this was attributed to her upper works having opened on account of having been in ballast n a hot climate so long, they took in about 60 tons more ore and set sail. A few days after she encountered some heavy seas, and the leak continuing she was finally abandoned two days after leaving port. Two of the insurance companies paid, but the Commercial Marine refused, on the pleas of evident unseaworthiness, while the plaintiff’s declaration was to the effect that the plea had not been proved, and even if so, the risk commenced with the loading of the vessel at Hondeklip Bay. The majority of the court gave judgment for the plaintiff for the amount claimed (£ 4,000), with costs and the defendants are going to appeal, so you will have more of the merits of the case on your side of the water. The conduct of the insurance company is very much censured, and if the judgment be reversed it will make marine insurance very unsafe.

The plans for the various new gaols and public offices throughout the colony have all been issued from the civil engineer’s office, several of the buildings have already been commenced, whilst for others, tenders are now invited. Numerous other works, including roads, and bridges are in course of progress and being developed from month to month. At Cradock, we observe, a wrought iron bridge is to be thrown over the Great Fish River. It will consist of two spans eighty-five feet in the clear, resting on solid stone abutments. The expense of the bridge is estimated at £ 6,500. An iron bridge is also to be erected over the Little Fish River, at Somerset East, the contract for the masons work of which has been taken by some immigrants recently arrived per Coldstream.

WANTED A SCIENTIFIC HANGMAN – Those who are not born to be drowned may congratulate themselves that they can now be hanged upon scientific principles. The commissioner of emigration has been recently sent to Newgate to study under Jack Ketch, and to obtain the very latest improvements for “Swinging off” from this world those who are too bad to live in it.
Calcraft, we are informed received the honourable gentleman most civilly and put him up to all the secrets of the infernal art, which have been duly forwarded to the colonial civil engineer, with the newly invented noose and pinions. The commissioner assures the authorities here that a culprit, by the aid of anything like a skilful practitioner, can be disposed of before he knows where he is. There are no knots to unfasten, as they frequently do when tied by the Cape hangman, for it is not a rare event here to hang a man twice.

BIRTHS

Sept 7, at Rondebosch, Mrs. Gysbert VAN REENEN, of a son.
Oct 9, at the Castle, Cape Town, the wife of Major ROMER, of a daughter

MARRIAGES

At Wynberg, John, eldest son of Charl MARAIS, of Rondebosch, to Augusta Wilhelmina Magdalena, eldest daughter of F. DUMINY, of Tygerberg
Sept. 29, at Cape Town, Mr. George STEWART, to Miss. Catherine Olivia Ella DELAHUNT

DEATHS

EASTERN PROVINCE

The past month has been remarkable for the opening of a bridge in the Eastern Province, the first that has been built at the charge of the Colonial Government. The ceremony was attended by all the officials who went out in their best attire, a holiday was given to the clerks in the public offices, and the Government or those who represented it, made the most of the only praiseworthy work that has been constructed in this province.

The valuation of the fixed property in Lower Albany is put down at £ 104,311, that in the division of Fort Beaufort at £ 249,000, and that of Adelaide at £ 65,643.

An effort has lately been made to purchase sites for a town hall, but hitherto without success. An extensive reservoir is about to be built, to avoid inconvenience in times of severe drought. A rate
of 1s. in the pound rental upon all immoveable property has been passed for the repairs of the streets.

The anniversary of the Wesleyan Sabbath Schools has been held at King William’s Town and Port Elizabeth, and passed off successfully.

The Trinity Church has been re-opened during the month, and the charge of the congregation has been accepted by the Rev. Mr. Johnstone. The native chapel under the Rev. N. Smith has also been re-opened during the month, and special services held. Several new Wesleyan chapels
are about to be erected – two in this city and another in the district of Uitenhage.

THE WEEKLY HALF-HOLIDAY – Here we enjoy our Saturday half-holiday regularly, and probably far more work is done – and done in better style in Port Elizabeth than in any other town in the colony. Our friends ‘down West’ who are interested in the holiday movement may take this as
fact, for it is stated on the authority of one who has tried both ‘systems’, and we hope they will agitate until they succeed in gaining their object. Depend upon it there is nothing so killing as having nothing to do, and to keep a lot of young men in a store for the pleasure of making them
miserable will not pay in the long run.

BIRTHS

Oct. 11, at Graham’s Town, the wife of Deputy Assistant Commissary General, BLACKER, of a
daughter.
Oct. 15, at Graham’s Town, the wife of Captain CONNOR, of a daughter
Oct. 15, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs. J.W. BROPHY, of a son.

MARRIAGES

Oct. 7, at Graaff-Reinet, John Gysbert, second son of W.W. ALEXANDER, to Elsie Sophia, fifth daughter of the late S.P. COETZEE.
Oct. 3, at Alexandria, Charlton, youngest son of Mr. W. DENTON, to Catherine, second daughter of Mr. Marthinus LANDMAN..
Oct. 12, at Graham’s Town, Charles Henry Croft, eldest son of the late Mr. Henry HILL, to Deborah Clarage, eldest daughter of Mr. George CYRUS.
Oct. 4, at Graham’s Town, Thomas Tyler GOULD, to Harriet Alicia, eldest daughter of the late F.A. ALCOCK.
Sept. 26, at Koeberg, Mr. T.D. FAIRCLOUGH, to A.E. third daughter of Dr. H. GIRD,

DEATHS

Oct. 10, at Graham’s Town, Eliza, widow of the late Mr. W. OGILVIE.
Oct. 9, at Graaff-Reinet, Charles, eldest son of Mr. Mark COCKROFT, aged 24 years.
Sept. 11, at Graham’s Town, Mr. Thomas WALKER, aged 64 years
Sept. 11, at Velvergenogh, Maria Naish, youngest daughter of Mr. Thomas Wilson COLLARD.
Sept. 23, at Graham’s Town, Mr. R. CROUCH, sen., aged 67 years
Oct. 16, at Port Elizabeth, Frederick Allen, the infant son of W.B. DEARE
Oct. 17, at Port Elizabeth, Jessie, daughter of Mr. M. DIESEL.
Oct. 12, at Port Elizabeth, William Richards, infant son of Mr. George IMPEY.

NATAL

The completion of a new sugar enterprise has been fairly inaugurated at the Sea Cow Lake estate, four miles from Durban.

The Durban Rifle Corps and Steam Transport Company have been established.

The Mayor of Durban, has given a sumptuous banquet to the Mayor and Corporation of Maritzburg, and all the officials and dignitaries of the place.

Dr.MALAN, the Superintendent of Education has been visiting the coast on a tour of inspection. He is on the whole very well satisfied with the interest generally displayed by the British colonists in the spread of education throughout the colony. Dr. Malan has also been lecturing at Durban and Verulam.

The case of Lloyd v. Colenso for slander was nonsuited on the ground of there being no evidence of the animus injuridandi.

And thus with her head set fairly towards a hopeful future our trim and taut little colony moves steadily onwards. The winds of dissension may now and then cause the vessel to behave in a manner rather unbecoming such a sedate little craft, but on the whole we (the colony) conduct ourselves with tolerable propriety, and may safely look forward to national prosperity as the due
reward of such meritorious conduct.

A BRIDGE OVER THE UMGENI – We are glad to announce that a project is on foot, under the highest professional auspices for spanning the Umgeni with an iron bridge, capable of carrying
traffic of any burden. It is proposed to place the bridge at a part above Mr. KENEDY’S drift.

BIRTHS

Sept. 25, at Pietermaritzburg, Mrs. William WILSON, of a daughter
Sept. 23, at Rosslyn, Mrs. T. FANNIN, of a daughter
Sept. 6, at Clairmont, Mrs. F Sidney SMITH, of a daughter
Aug. 10, at Pietermaritzburg, Mrs. Henry DUNNING, of a son
Aug. 27, at Durban, Mrs. D. GAVIN, of a son
Sept. 5, at Maritzburg, Mrs. Hector URQUHART, of a son.
Sept. 13, at Durban, Mrs. George WINDER, of a daughter

MARRIAGES

Sept 28, at Durban, George, eldest son of Mr. PUTTERILL, to Eleanor, eldest daughter of the late Mr. Robert SPENCER
Sept. 8, at Cato Manor, Cornelius Mynard Johnnes Heernza MOLL, to Caroline Wilhelmina,
BINGHAM
Sept 15, at Clairmont, Mr. James Gazley MACK, to Miss. Sarah Ann GORDGE.
Sept. 3, at Maritzburg, Mr. James STUBBS, to Miss Isabella URQUHART
Sept. 3,at Durban, Mr. Eugene B. CROWLY, to Miss. Wilhelmina VAN DER MERWE

DEATHS

Sept. 15, at Pietermaritzburg, the only son of Mr. J. SMITH, aged 3 years.
Sept. 17, at Durban, Mary Ann, the wife of Mr. Andrew WELCH, aged 32 years
Sept. 5, at Pietermaritzburg, the infant son of Mr. J.S. COLBORNE

2 January 1860

1 February 1860

The first electric telegraph in the colony had been laid down, and was in active operation as far as the railway works extended. Its use has hitherto been confined to the railway contractors, but it was expected that it would be thrown open to the public within a couple of years, by which time it is probable that the works will be completed. It is then proposed to extend it along the sea-board districts as far as Graham's Town.

The Government has entered into a contract for a short telegraph line of twenty one miles, to be laid down between Cape Town and Simon's Bay.

WESTERN PROVINCE - Cape Town Dec. 22 1859

At the grand agricultural fete at Caledon, the Hon. Mr. RAWSON, the Colonial Secretary, stated that from a communication received from Sir George Grey he felt confident he was on board the steamer Celt on his return to the Cape. Every preparation was consequently made to receive him, the military were ordered to line the street, but in came the Celt and as the greater portion of the people correctly supposed, without Sir Grey on board.

In connection with agriculture, there is an event which has excited considerable alarm among wine growers. The vines and fruit have been attacked by a disease which, from the first description, led people to believe was no other than the dreaded oidium of the continental vineyards. On closer examination, however, the general impression now is that it has been caused by the unusual quantity of moisture that existed during the early part of the summer and the very heavy dews which have so often fallen since the formation of the fruit.

Great fears are entertained of the safety of the emigrant ship John and Lucy. She left Liverpool on the 5th September last, and has consequently been out upwards of 109 days. Hopes are, however, entertained that she may have had to put into Bahia or some South American port for supplies. She had 450 souls on board, including the crew.

Two emigrant ships have arrived during the past month, the Bermondsey, at Algoa Bay and the Jalawar, in Table Bay. The Immigration Agent at Port Elizabeth, Mr. LONGLANDS, reported that both the Bermondsey and the previous arrival, the Chatham, "were very confined in their accommodation, and the arrangements of the latter were in some respects objectionable. He particularly mentioned "that the access to the single women's apartment should be from the poop, in the case of the Bermondsey, they had to pass through the married people's to reach the deck. He also spoke in unfavourable terms of the conduct of the Bermondsey's passengers during the voyage.

A very melancholy accident occurred in Algoa Bay. Col. ROSE, who had just arrived from England to relieve Major-Gen. BOLTON, in the command of the corps, was unfortunately drowned by the upsetting of the serf boat in which he and several other passengers were landing from the steamer Waldensian. It is supposed he must have been struck by the oar, as he had a mark on his head, and the means which succeeded in resuscitating the others entirely failed in his case, although continued for a length of time. Col Rose was the author of an excellent work entitled "Four Years at the Cape" and ere he could revisit his sporting scenes, after an absence of thirty years, he met with this melancholy fate.

Our late Chief Justice, Sir John WYLDE, died on the 13th inst. at the ripe old age of 79 years. He was appointed Judge Advocate of New South Wales in 1816, Chief Justice at the Cape 1827, which he retained until 1855, when he retired on a pension of 2,000 pounds a year, which reverts to this Government. Sir John was the brother of the late Lord Truro.

The German Legion have received an intimation that their pay and allowances will cease on the 31st March 1860.

Under the influence of a burning South African sun, let me close the events of this year by wishing you and your readers a merry Christmas and a happy new year.

P.S. -- half past 11, Dec 22 1859

I am glad to be able to allay any fears as to the safety of the passengers by the emigration ship John and Lucy by announcing the arrival at this moment of the American barque Ceres from Pernambuco, having on board 188 of the John and Lucy's passengers. She was wrecked on Cape Rocque, on the South American coast, no lives lost. A steamer took them to Pernambuco, where a portion have come by the Ceres, and the remainder will be brought to the Cape by the steamer Stanley.

PUBLIC SALES - Several extensive sales have lately taken place, and our auctioneers and land agents - Messrs. JONES, CAUVIN, BLORE, and BARTMAN, and CAFFYN, and Mr. E.J.M. SYFRET, have had plenty of business.

A dwelling house in Bree Street, in the estate of H.L. HANSLO, to Mr. P.U. LIEBRANDT  and another in the same estate to Mr. RUSSOUW.
Building lots at Claremont, belonging to Mr. C.B. DREYER, two cottages and ground belonging to Mr. D. WILLIAMS of Newlands.

Crown lands also have been sold in the districts of Colesburg and Richmond  to the following purchasers

A.A. ORTLEPP
N. JANSEN VAN RENSBURG
W. JANSEN VAN RENSBURG
J.L. DU PLESSIS
M.R. VAN WYK
D.M.D. SINCLAIR
P.A. VAN WYK
VON MALITZ Brothers
M.C. LOUW

The next list is of lands in the Richmond district-

No 63. Winterveld 4,106 morgen M.A. VERMEULDEN
No 65  Winterveld 8,800 morgen ZACH, BLOMERUS
No 70  Winterveld 4,400 morgen J.L. DU PLESSIS
No 83  Winterveld 367 morgen Carel VAN DER MERWE
No 84  Quagga's Poort, Winterveld  600 morgen Carel MARAIS
No 85 Winterveld 9,049 morgen Frans VILJOEN
No 86 Winterveld 5,904 morgen A. WIPPENER
No 87 Winterveld 11,893 morgen A. WIPPENER
No 88 Kereebosch, Winterveld 11,993 morgen Carel VAN DER MERWE
No 89 Wintervel "Waterval" 6,890 morgen Widow VILJOEN

BANKRUPTCY COURT - The following insolvencies have been declared before the Master

Dec 16, James HEPBURN of Fort Beaufort, transport rider
Dec 20, Frederick Augustus BAMERS of Gramham's Town, clerk

The meetings held before the Master yesterday were -

Johannes Jacobus DE KOCK, insolvent, fourth surrender first and final meeting and Jacobus Fredericus Gerhardus PIETERSEN elected sole trustee.
Julia HODGSON, insolvent, second meeting and election of Frederick MURRAY as sole trustee.
Jan Hendrik BAM, insolvent, second meeting and election of J.F.G. PIETERSEN and Wilhelmus Cornelius Arentz MOLLER as joint trustees.
Johan Michiel PFYFER and Gezmas Adila PFYFER (born KOK), insolvents, third meeting. The trustees report having been read, was adopted, and it was further resolved that the trustees be authorised to have the insolvents examined regarding certain assets removed from the premises prior to their surrender.

Henry Ralph HARRIS, insolvent, special meeting. At this meeting it was resolved by the creditors present to sell and realise all the landed property belonging to the estate, as soon and in such manner as shall be seem desirable.

BIRTHS

Nov 19, at Vervoorem, Wellington, Mrs. FOCKENS, of a son
Nov 26, at Cape Town, Mrs. J.J. LE SUEUR, jun, of a daughter
Nov 21, at Stellenbosch, Mrs. C.F. LIESCHING, of a daughter

MARRIAGES

Nov 19, Mr. Benjamin CROWDER, of Natal, to Matilda Jane, only daughter of William GHISLIN, of Paarde Vlei, Stellenbosch.
Dec 7, at Simon's Town, Joseph Jacques HUSKISSON, to Miss Rachel King BAILEY.

DEATHS

Dec 14, at Simon's Town, Mr. Elijah MORDEN, aged 39 years
Nov 25, at Cape Town, Robert Orme, aged 12 years and on the 27th Nov, Willoughby James Cleghorn, sons of Mr. James BRUCE

EASTERN PROVINCE

PRICE OF LAND - Farms still continue to change hands at exorbitant rates, the money paid for them seems ridiculous. In Graaff-Reinet land has recently been sold at 38s. per morgen, and two other farms bought by Mr. MEINTJES in 1854, have been sold at a profit of nearly 7,000pounds. In Port Elizabeth a piece of land which cost 30 years ago 22pound. 10s. has just been sold for 500pounds.
Nearly 40,000 morgen of Crown lands have been sold by auction in the Colesberg district, and realised a total of 9,752pounds. The conditions under which the land is being sold are by no means favourable, while the notice of the  sale is published only in the Government Gazette of the colony, the circulation of which is confined to officials.

A new surf boat of upwards 30 tons measurement has been launched from H.M. Surf Boat Establishment at East London.

Large quantities of fine fish have been sold on the King William's Town market during the month, brought from East London.

A robbery of the Free State mail occurred between Fauresmith and Colesberg. The post rider, a Hottentot, was stopped on the road by a party of three Englishmen on the pretence of sending him to get them a small pole, or piece of wood, to mend a cart which had broken down. Whilst the man was absent these villains cut open the mail bags - destroyed several letters - buried others in the sand - and when the post rider returned gave him brandy and made him drunk. The parties implicated are one STANFIELD, with an alias, a deserter from some regimental band, KERR, a shoemaker, an Englishman, and CLAYTON, a young Africander. The latter has been admitted State evidence, and has given such information as will bring the guilt home to the other parties.

BIRTHS

Nov 18, at Graham's Town, Mrs. James D. COUPER, of a son
Nov 14, at Cradock, Mrs. C.H. NELSON, of a son
Oct 29, at Graaff-Reinet, Mrs. George ROBEY, of a son
Nov 20, at Richmond, Mrs. J.S.O. BRINK, of a daughter
Dec 12, at Graham's Town, the wife of Henry CRUMP, of a son
Nov 19, at Rowie Krantz, Mrs. John WESTCOTT, of a daughter
Nov 9, at Graaff-Reinet, the wife of Dr. FEHRSZEN, of a daughter
Dec 6, at Graham's Town, Mrs. C.R. GOWIE, of a son

MARRIAGES

Nov 30, at Eden Grove, Henry, second son of Joseph LINTON, to Sophia, third daughter of Charles SLATER, of Graham's Town
Nov 2, at Graham's Town, William George, second son of the late Mr. Robert FEATHERSTONE, to Jane, second daughter of the late Mr. J.H. FINNAUGHTY
Nov 28, at Port Elizabeth, Mr. Henry CRACKNELL, to Miss Jane Mary Evet THOMPSON
At Mooi River Dorp, M. VANDERHOFF, to Anne, daughter of M.A. GOETRY.

DEATHS

Nov 26, at Fort Hare, Isabella, the infant daughter of George SAUNDERS
Nov 8, at Zwarte Koppen, William Reading MERRITT, surgeon
Oct 11, at Thorn Dale, Transvaal, Elizabeth, the wife of Mr. Henry HARTLEY, and eldest daughter of the late Mr. William UPTON, aged 39 years.
Nov 4, at Cradock, Antonia Francina, wife of the Rev. J. TAYLOR, aged 69 years
Nov 23, at Graham's Town, John CARLISLE, aged 62 years
Nov 25, at Graham's Town, William SMITH, aged 60 years
Nov 27, at Colga, Joseph, son of Mr. Joseph GREEN, aged 94 years
Nov 21, at Graham's Town, Jemima Ann, wife of Mr. William PAGE, aged 30 years
Nov 10, at Graham's Town, Asenath, wife of Mr. John WESTCOTT, and eldest daughter of Thomas COCK, aged 34 years
Dec 3, at Bedford, Marianne Susanah, wife of Mr. Alexander Robert WELCH, aged 24 years
Dec 3, at Graham's Town, Mr. Thomas WAY, aged 38 years.
Nov 11, at Port Elizabeth, Elizabeth Catherine, youngest child of Mr. Francis THOMPSON

NATAL

The greatest satisfaction is felt at the arrival of the steam tug, the Pioneer, which is considered quite an event in the annuals of the colony. She will be a great acquisition to the local trade, as she will work along the coast, gathering up the sugar at the different stations, and bring it to market.

A free coloured  American is on a visit to South Africa, with a view to promote a settlement of free American negroes in Natal, or some other part of the British possessions. An intention is also announced of forming in Natal, a Dutch village and settlement, to be composed of emigrants from Holland.

A minister from the congregational body of Canada is also on his way here, to organise a settlement of Canadian Christians in Natal.

The Rev. John REYNOLDS has arrived to take charge of the Congregational interest in Maritzburg. There has as yet been no regularly organised church of that body there, and Mr. Reynolds is sent out by the Colonial Missionary Society.

The Colonial Chaplain has failed in obtaining a renewal of non-suit by the Chief Justice, in his action for slander against the Bishop of Natal.

Balls and concerts have been plentiful during the month, and a successful attempt has been made to establish the British sport of steeple-chase.

PIETERMARITZBURG STEEPLE-CHASE - This long expected event came off on Tuesday, November 23. Judging from the number of spectators on the ground, it would appear that the Dutch as well as the English inhabitants of Natal were largely impregnated with a strong relish for the pleasure and excitement attending this truly British sport.

BIRTHS

Dec 1, at Durban, Mrs. G. PAY, of a son

MARRIAGES

Dec 7, at Durban, the Rev. W. BAUGH, Minister of St.Mary's, Maritzburg, to Sarah, the only daughter of the late W. SIMMONS
Nov 17, at Isipingo, William MUARO, of Durban, to Laura Elizabeth, only daughter of Michael JEFFELS.

DEATHS

Nov 7, at Durban, Alice Townsley, youngest daughter of Mr. P. LENNOX, aged 14 months
Nov 22, at Umhlali, Frances, youngest daughter of Mr. J. HENWOOD.

1 March 1860

The Union Company's mail steam ship Celt arrived at Plymouth on Monday at noon. Her dates are Table Bay, Jan 20, St. Helena, 29, Ascension, Feb 5.
The Celt brought the following passengers -
Mr. HAWKINS, jnr (Wynberg)
Colonel and Mrs. DILL, four children and two servants
Captain FORBES (late of Hastings)
Mr. LOWREY,
Dr. TANCRED (late MP for Clanwilliam)
Mr. PYE
Mr. F.P. MOORE
Miss. SLICKS
Mrs. GILLESPIE
Mr. ROBINSON
Mr. Justice PHILLIPS
Dr. GOULLET

The following is a list of passengers who have engaged berths for the mail steamer Dane, which sails on the 6th inst. from Devonport -
Dr. WAY
Messrs. P. and Jos. LEWIS, DAVIS, C.J. WOLLASSON,  Stephen SCAUFFER, MAYNARD, CORNER, GIBBONS, COLLINSON, F. HAENERT,
Mr. & Mrs. LASKER
Mrs. GIBSON
A.C.G. ATKINSON
Mr. ATKINSON and daughter
and three passengers sent out by Mr. MOSENTHAL

The following is a list of the passengers by the Dutch ship Provincie Drenethe, Capt. BECKERING, from Amsterdam to the Cape of Good Hope -
Mr. DICKS
Mr. & Mrs. BERLYN
Miss. GRUTZENER,
Mr. & Mrs. ROOS and five children
Messrs. VAN DER KRACHT, SCHULTZ, DE LINT, GRINS, ENGELBRECHT, BRINKMAN,
Mr. & Mrs. JOEN
Mr. & Mrs. HEMMERS and three children
Mr. & Mrs. WILD
Mr. & Mrs. VAN ES and two children
Mr. & Mrs. REYS and two children
Messrs. DUNESSE, DE GROOT, VAN GOGH, MOLT and son, HAWEY, TIMMERMAN, POSTERLING,BOONSAIER, VOGELSANG and son, HASSELAER, CASSELMAN, HAGEN, Miss. SLIEDEKAMP

The Wellington chartered by the Emigration Commissioners sailed on the 25th ult. from Southampton for Cape Town, with 226 souls. They comprise a number of agricultural labourers and female domestic servants, as well as of artisans of every description from the three kingdoms. The emigration to the Cape, at the colonial expense under the Local Act of 1857, now amounts to 6,578 souls.

The Newspaper Press of South Africa - In the eastern and western provinces there are now published 27 newspapers, three of which are issued thrice weekly, and five twice weekly. At Natal there are four weekly newspapers, also a Government Gazette. In the Transvaal there are two issued weekly.
The vine disease, we regret to hear, was spreading, and had been identified as the oidium Tuckeri. The Lieutenant-Governor had appointed a commission to ascertain its real character and the extent of its ravages.

WESTERN PROVINCE

Amongst the many changes that have taken place with the new year is one that deserves prior notice - the retirement of Mr. FAIRBAIRN from the editorship of the Commercial Advertiser, which he had held for a period of thirty six years. He was styled the Father of the Colonial Press, his journal having been the first one published at the Cape. Shortly after its commencement he secured the freedom of the press in South Africa, and during these many long years he has continuously exerted his great abilities in promoting the prosperity of the colony, and its moral and intellectual improvement is greatly owing to him, while his determined and unflinching conduct in the anti-convict struggle, and securing a Constitutional Government for the Cape, was the mainspring of the colonists' success on those memorable occasions. Mr. Fairbairn has been in declining health, and rest and relaxation had become indispensable. He still, however, retains his seat in the House of Assembly, as member for Swellendam.

A larger number of vessels have been lying in Table Bay during the present month than has ever been known before. Amongst them were several foreign men-of-war, and we are now daily expecting the French fleet of some twelve vessels with the reinforcements for China. A French commissary has already arrived to purchase supplies. All this tends to keep up the prices of provisions. We, however, reap the benefit in other ways.

The result of the election of a President for the Free State has placed Mr. PRETORIUS at the head of the poll by an overwhelming majority. He is now the President of two Republics. What steps he will now take is not known, but it is very evident that there is a pretty little storm brewing in that direction.

The readers will be sorry to learn that the two sons of MOSHESH who were educated here, baptised in the Cathedral with great ceremony - one being called after Sir George Grey, who stood sponsor, petted by the Dean, and sent home to be examples to their sable brethren, have relapsed into heathenism.

INSOLVENCIES - The following insolvencies have been declared during the past month -
James HEPBURN - transport rider, Fort Beaufort
Frederick Augustus BOWERS - clerk, Graham's Town
Johannes Gerhardus VAN GRAAN - of Noordekoof, Caledon
William Thompson LLOYD, of Bathurst Street, Graham's Town - chemist and druggist
Cornelius Petrus Laurence, of Kleine River, Uitenhage, - agriculturist and trader
Charles George DYASON - carrier, Uitenhage
James STANTON - shopkeeper, Port Elizabeth
Fred. LIPPERT, - boatman, Harrington Street, Cape Town

BIRTHS

Jan 4, at Cape Town, Mrs. Matthew WOODIFIELD, of a daughter
Dec 27, at Cape Town, Mrs. George JESSUP, of a son

MARRIAGES

Jan 2, at Cape Town, Mr. P. FLETCHER, to Agnes, only daughter of R. EAGLESIM, merchant, Scotland
Jan 4, at Cape Town, Mr. Charles P. Vos, to Miss Martha A.J. VAN NIEKERK
Dec 20, at Hope Town, Doctor Maximilian Trougatt Curtis BESIG, to Amalie Frederika, third daughter of the late Rev. George STEIN, of Herrnhut.
Dec 6, at Stellenbosch, J. KORSTEN, to Catherine, eldest daughter of the late Charles TENNANT
Dec 7, at Cape Town, Henry John PAULING, to Miss. Charlotte Sarah Harriet MAYNIER

DEATHS

Dec 30, at Cape Town, Mr. Michael W. KELLY, a native of Tuam, Ireland, aged 47 years
Jan 12, at Cape Town, Frank Aitchison, infant son of Mr. Henry GREEN, aged nine months
Jan 2, at Swellendam, Susanna Frederika, Vicomtesse de Marillac St. Julien, and only daughter of Dr. R. WEHR, aged 22 years.
Dec 18, at Cape Town, Mr. W.H. MARTIN, formerly of Burlington Arcade, London, aged 56 years
Nov. 27, at Simon's Town, Jane Amelia, wife of Mr. George LANKESTER, aged 30 years.
Dec 2, at Cape Town, Mrs. Jane NEAVE, aged 63 years.

EASTERN PROVINCE

We have had one arrival - that of the barque Ascendant, 517 tons, Capt. Robert Spencer, with 252 souls, under the charge of Surgeon-Superintendent Goullet. She arrived on Sunday, December 25th, after a rather tedious passage of 89 days from Southampton. At the commencement of her voyage, she experienced a good deal of heavy weather and contrary winds, and was considerably retarded by light and baffling winds on running down the "trades".
The emigrants by this vessel appeared to be a very respectable lot of people. Their conduct throughout, despite the long passage, was of a very satisfactory character. The larger portion of the emigrants were "permit"cases.
There was a good deal of sickness amongst the younger portion of the emigrants during the voyage, and the surgeon's office, in this instance especially, could have been no sinecure. There were no fewer than forty cases of measles and twenty five of hooping cough, but, fortunately, the mortality was small, the number of deaths being only five - or taking the emigrants at 250, about 2 per cent.
The deaths were - one from measles, one from pneumonia, three from diarrhea, and one from gastro-enteritis. There were four births during the voyage.
The only emigrants now remaining at the depot are the following - about to proceed to Graaff-Reinet under engagement, one married couple and four children, and three single men, to Fort Beaufort, one married couple and one child.

The city has been almost deserted during the Christmas holidays. Very few remained at home to take stock, make up their books, and count the returns of the year. Several hundreds of persons, of all sizes and ages, must have been seeking pleasure at the sea side, where they led a gipseying life and only returned when they found it irksome to dispose of their time. A desertion of this sort once a year is excusable, and we have some little respect for that man who can give up mercenary pursuits for a time, and enjoy the blessings and freedom of a country life.

GRAHAM's TOWN - Gas will soon be introduced into this city. The trustees of Commemoration Chapel have sent to England for the apparatus in order to light that building. After its first introduction it will speedily become in general use.
The anniversaries of the Wesleyan Sunday School have been celebrated at Queenstown and Uitenhage by special sermons and tea meetings. At a Bazaar held by the Wesleyans at Fort Beaufort 90 pounds was realized. The Wesleyan chapel at Collingham, a village about six miles from this city has been re-opened during the month. There were nearly 200 persons present and the collections were sufficient to pay off the whole of the debt incurred by the alterations.

BIRTHS

Dec 12, at Fort Beaufort, Mrs. S.H. ROBERTS, of a son
Dec 23, at Riet Fontein, Mrs. G.W. AYTON, of a daughter
Dec 13, at Graham's Town, Mrs. E.H. DELL, of a daughter
Jan 4, at Graaff-Reinet, Mrs. B.Z. STEGMANN, of a daughter
Dec 23, at Graaff-Reinet, Mrs. Edward NATHAN, of a son
Dec 19, at Graaff- Reinet, Mrs. H.F. HENDRIKZ, of a son
Dec 24, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs. Septimus JONES, of a son
Jan 9, at Port Elizabeth, Mrs. James RICHARDS, of a daughter

MARRIAGE

Dec 21, at Graham's Town, Mr. Thomas Carey STREET, to Georgina Sophia Sarah, only daughter of George SLATER

DEATHS

Dec 14, at Port Elizabeth, Amelia, relict of the late Mr. David McMASTER, aged 68 years
Dec 30, at Graham's Town, Alexander HEDDLE, aged 70 years
Dec 16, at Graham's Town, Mrs. Louisa D. FOUNTAIN
Dec 24, at Graham's Town, Peter Ernest KRUGER, aged 56 years
Jan 1, at Fort Beaufort, Mary Anne, wife of Mr. Thomas WARD, aged 35 years
Dec 7, at Fort Beaufort, Mr. George POLLARD, aged 41 years
Jan 10, at New Essex, Uria, youngest son of Mr. John BOWLES
Dec 12, at Port ELizabeth, Elydell Martha, infant child of Mr. C. BAKER
Jan 11, at Graham's Town, Eleanor W.H. infant daughter of Lieut. GROPPS
Jan 5. at Port Elizabeth, Elizabeth, wife of Mr. W.S. CRAIK, aged 22 years
Dec 1, at Uitenhage, Wilhelmina Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Mr. J.G. SCHLEMMER, of Uitenhage, and wife of Mr. George GRUBER, of Port Elizabeth, aged 33 years.
Nov 19, at Paljas Fontein, Griqualand, James FOSSEY, aged 49 years
Nov 26, at Cuylor Manor, Mr. William ARMSTRONG, aged 54 years.

NATAL

BIRTHS

Dec 20, at Durban, Mrs. Henry George BEACHCROFT, of a son
Dec 26, at Durban, Mrs. G.W. BANCROFT, of a son
Dec 12, at Red House Farm, Mrs. W. LISTER, of a daughter
Dec 13, at Durban, Mrs.W.H. SAVORY, of a son
Dec 25, Mrs. J.J. CHAPMAN, of a son
Dec 14, at Ladysmith, Mrs. George LUCKHAM, of a daughter
Dec 26, at Maritzburg, Mrs. John KILLOCH, of a daughter

MARRIAGES

Jan 5, at Durban, Mr. Thomas B. BURNHAM, to Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Mr. J. CULLINGWORTH
Dec 2, at Maritzburg, Mr. Henry WEST, to Miss Jenkins
Jan 10, at Durban, John Otto WIRSING, to Annie, eldest daughter of F.J. KOTZE, of Mowbray
Nov 4, at Keiskamma Hoek, William, second son of William Simpson, of Graham's Town, to Caroline, second daughter of Mr. John NETTLETON
Jan 3. at Maritzburg, Mr. William Cox to Miss. BIRCHMORE.
Jan 2, at York, Mr. Thomas Body to Miss Clark

DEATHS

Dec 20, Helen Mary, daughter of Mr. G.H. WIRSING
Dec 22, at Umbilo, Anne, wife of Mr. Mark Foggirt
Dec 27, at Richmond, Mr. John GRICE, aged 58 years
Dec 19, at Ladysmith, Thomasine Mary, infant daughter of Mr. George LUCKHAM
Dec 3, at Ladysmith, Captain John MACDONALD, aged 68 years
Dec 24, at Ladysmith, Sophia Mary Jane Forster Kaye, wife of George LUCKHAM, and sister of H.E. KNIGHT, of Klip River, aged 31 years
Dec 30, at Umsunduzi Mission Station, Lewis Paulinus, only son of the Rev. Lewis GROUT.

4 April 1860

The Union Steam Navigation Company's mail packet Norman, Capt. Boxer, arrived at Plymouth, on Sunday from the Cape of Good Hope, Feb 21. She brings the following passengers-

The Norman brings a full cargo of colonial produce, valued at about 12,000pounds, comprising 289 bales of wool, 200 casks wine, 2,000pounds worth of ostrich feathers, also French coins to the value of 4,000pounds.

Since the departure of the previous mail the weather has been very oppressive, the thermometer having averaged 95 degrees in the shade and 185 degrees in the sun. Thunder storms had been frequent, more particularly in the Eastern Province.

WESTERN PROVINCE

The Supreme Court has been occupied with two cases of great public interest. The first being the legality of Mahommedan marriages, as affecting the rights of wives and children to share in the property. The court has decided that such marriages having taken place without the usual publication of banns, as required by law, they are illegal, as this will seriously affect many wealthy Mahommedan families, a bill, it is said, will be introduced next Parliament to meet the case. The other question was a friendly suit to determine whether a law exists in the colony limiting the rate of interest to 6 per cent, consequently, whether free trade in money is illegal. The court stated yesterday that so many arguments had been brought forward on both sides, and that the authorities were so conflicting that they would not give any judgment at present, and before they did there would, the Chief Justice remarked, be ample time for Parliament to set the question to rest.

The Maria Somes is the only immigrant ship that has arrived during the month, she brought 252 emigrants, under the charge of Dr. Robertson. There were no births or deaths during the whole voyage. They were at once landed, and many found immediate employment. Female servants - cooks and housemaids, are always in demand and engaged.

The Simon's Bay patent slip, after some squabbling with the late engineer, is now making good progress.

The volunteer movement continues with unabated spirit. The very sad and fatal accident that occurred at the last Colonel-in-Chief drill on the parade has thrown a gloom over the entire community. In one of the cavalry charges, Mr. E.C. TURPIN (of the firm of Turpin, Puzey & Co), who was a member of that corps was struck by a piece of lead that had adhered to one of the rifles during ball practice on a previous occasion and was so thin as to be undetected on loading. It passed through his belt and entered the intestines, causing mortification, which terminated in his death on the second day after the accident. His captain (the Attorney-General) remained with him nearly the whole of his illness. His funeral, which was conducted with military honours, was the largest that was ever witnessed, and every respect and regret was manifested on the part of the inhabitants for his untimely fate.

Trade is rather brisker, but the money market continues dreadfully tight.

EASTERN PROVINCE

The 14th March next, is the day appointed for the nomination of a member of Somerset East, in the room of Mr. P.E. KRUGER, resigned. Mr. G. CHABAUD, attorney, of this town, has been invited to stand for this constituency. It is reported that Mr. J.A. KRUGER, the (Dopper) member for Albert, has also resigned.

The small pox, from which we thought the town had been perfectly freed, has, we regret to say, again made its appearance. Besides this, there has been a good deal of sickness in the town. Dysentery and diarrhea have been very prevalent, and several deaths have taken place during the month.

A private named Thomas PIGGOTT, a native of London and about one-and-twenty years of age, belonging to H.M.'s 13th Regiment, was drowned on the afternoon of Sunday, the 15th ult. He was bathing at the time on the south side of the breakwater. The current - strong and rapid, owing to the heavy sea sent in by a prevalence of winds from the southward - carried him out of his depth, and before assistance reached him he sank and so met his untimely end. His body was interred with military honours on the following day.

Some sixty or seventy Mormons, it is reported, are about to leave this town in the barque Alacrity, for Boston, en route to "Salt Lake", Utah. On her last voyage to Boston, the Alacrity took a large number of the believers in the "doctrines" of Brigham Young from this port, also for the Salt Lake.

The Society for the Propagation of the Gospel have granted a pension of 25pounds per annum to the widow of the late Rev. J. WILSON who was murdered in 1858.

A want that has been much felt here will, in a few months, be satisfied. A piece of ground in the Bright has, we understand, been recently purchased by Capt. A.H. TAYLOR,on which that gentleman purposes erecting several bathing machines, which he intends bringing out from London on his next voyage. This cannot but prove a profitable investment to the originator, as the frequent and regular use of the bath is necessary to health and good temper.

A large boa-constrictor, caught in the neighbourhood of Maritzburg, has been brought down by the Hanoverian brig Candace, from Natal. Its length is about twenty feet.

Mr. Charles CUMBERS, an officer of the mounted police force, has met his death under distressing circumstances. It appears that while in the act of bathing at East London, he was seized with violent cramp in his limbs, and though medical aid was quickly at hand and every effort was made for his restoration, he died within a few hours after being removed to his residence.

From East London we learn that Mr. KROHN is fitting up a cutter to trade between the Buffalo and St. John rivers.

THE CAPE A CENTURY AGO

The entire direct expenditure of the colony was certainly small. With days when the Governor received only about 4,200 guilders, or 350pounds per annum.

From the manner in which the revenue was gathered, a statement of it includes necessarily a detailed account of the actual agricultural produce of the colony. A tithe of the crops was at once the property of the Government. Of 25,000 muids of wheat annually required by the company - 5,000 of which were consumed here and 20,000 sent to Batavia - 16,000 were delivered in kind as the Government tithe, which at 8 florins Cape currency, equal to 6.4 florins Dutch amounted to 102,000 guilders or 8,533pounds 6s. 8d. the most important item in the collection of revenue. Wine further formed a source of revenue, but here the tithe was not exacted.

The total revenue of the colony was, therefore, in the middle of the last century, a hundred years after Riebeck planted the settlement, 17150pounds.There were no customs dues, for nothing might be imported in foreign ships, and as regards Dutch vessels, the sole importing and exporting merchants were the Dutch Company, who were the owners of all the imports and exports.

No roads whatever existed, Bridges were wholly unknown, with the exception of a bridge over the Laurens River, in Stellenbosch, built by a patriotic individual named GRIMPIN, who, and whose descendents, were by the Dutch Government exempted from the performance of burgher service, and one which had been erected by Governor Van Der Stel, over the same river, for the purpose of his farms at Hottentots' Holland, but which was suffered to fall into decay when he was removed.

In the farms of the interior, or Overberg, bread was a luxury, for months in the year scarcely attainable. The dried flesh of game or of oxen, often performed the office of wheat and flour. There was no education, three ministers of the Gospel for the entire population, no printing press, no Post Office, no books except those in the possession of men holding official rank, and the Bibles and prayer books.

NATAL

The strides we are making in agriculture is sufficiently proved by the fact that, during one month, no fewer than three steam sugar mills have been completed and commenced operations. The first was Mr. SMART's at Isipingo, driven by an engine of twenty horse power, the next was Mr. PRIDDLE's in the same locality, and the third, Mr. SHIRE's over the Umgeni.

The papers announce the death of Mrs. John SHEPSTONE, on the 20th January, at the house of her father, D. MOODIE.

BIRTHS

MARRIAGES

DEATHS