PROVINCIAL COUNCIL.

Lyttelton Times, Volume XXI, Issue 1229, 30 April 1864, Page 3

PROVINCIAL COUNCIL.

Wednesday, April 27. The Speaker took the chair at 5.16 p.m. The members present were Messrs. Bolleston, Hal], Boss, Tancred, Maude, Wilson, Hawkes, Rowe, Clark, Ollivier, Lance, Hornbrook, Turpbull, Beswick, Tosswill, Wilkin, Moorhouse, White, Bowler, Fyfe, and Western*. Prayers having been read, The minutes of last meeting were confirmed. Mr. Beswick asked whether it was intended to call together a select Committee for the purpose of considering what papers laid on the table should be printed. An hon. member had moved for a select Committee to consider the matter, but, up to that hour, had taken no steps towards luring the documents printed. Mr. Ollivier acknowledged he had moved for the Committee, but was sorry to say that from various causes thejPommittee had not been called together. The hon. member would bear in mind, however, that when the documents should be selected by the Committee some time would be required before they could be printed, because some of them were very lengthy. It was expected that the Committee would be called together without any delay, after the notice for the select Committee was carried; but hon. members must be aware that public business must give place to private avocations. (Oh!) If they thought otherwise, he (Mr. Ollivier) would much rather the Committee were discharged, bo far as he himself was concerned. He was not yet patriotic enough to allow his private business to succumb to that of a public nature. Mr. Wilson, as a member of the committee, suggested rthat it should meet at 11 o'clock in the forenoon of next «day. (Hear, hear.) Mr. Maude thought the Government should state what documents should be printed. Mr. Hall remarked that it was not at all the business of the Government to suggest what documents should be printed. On the contrary, it was a matter which renamed for the Council to decide. (Hear, hear.) The matter then dropped. A petition was presented from the inhabitants residing on the north bank of the Waimakariri, complaining that they were destitute of any means of access to Kaiapoi or Christchurch, and praying for the erection of a bridge across the river on the Oxford road, leading from White's Waimakariri bridge, or such other spot as the engineer should select. The petition was received. BOAD BOABDU. r Mr. Eowe asked the Provincial Secretary if it is the mteation ol the Government to bring in a bill to amend the Boad Board Bill No. 1, His Excellency the Governor having disallowed Boad Board Ordinance No. 2. He asked the question because he thought the people of the province had no protection from taxes of any sort. The Provincial Secretary, in reply to the question of the hon. member, said he fully recognised the difficulty which had arisen with regard to the matter. The late Government toe seemed to see the difficulty, and had brought in a bill for the purpose of imposing taxes on other classes than freeholders, but that bill was disallowed because it seemed to tax Crown lands. But when the Boad Ordinance came to be considered with a view to its being revised, the Government would take proper steps .to have the evil remedied. RAILWAY works account. "Mr. TTat.t. asked leave to introduce a bill to establish a jßalwny and Harbour Works Account; and also that the read and printed. He would move a second readying o& the day fallowing.

Leave to introduce the bill was granted. .Mr. Httt, in rising to more that there be laid on the ttable of this Council, at its next session, a return showing tthe date at yhich the resignation of the late member for r-the Mount Cook District reached the office of the Superintendent, and the date at which the election for that distinct took place, together with copies of all correspondence sand other documents which explain the delay that took' tilaflg in filling up the vacant seat for the Mount Cook (Gatbet—said that it would be in the recollection of the Coudi i&at the seat for Mount Cook had remained vacant during' previous session of the Provincial Council; and in eoiuajip&ice ibis constituents had appealed to him to ask the CPOTWff take such steps as would enable them to know whetbe? XP-J #pe .was to blame in the matter. He . did not say that fwjm# WHS to be blamed, not having made use of the fee had had of sifting into the himself. Mr. Beswick remained no doubt whatever rthat the seat had remained a veiy great length tof time; and the constituency to the reason whj they were not represented. £t yas not ,a question enuerning one district alone, but .onie in yhiieh $■ great poUie principle was involved. Mr. supported the motion., )Ele happen®? tP be at Ttmam *t a time when the was there awaitisf the arrival of the mail, by wfoeb he expected to receive the dispatch authorizing hup .to prqcced with the election; *»d he could bear testimony to the very great amount of inconvenience to which fr e > as well as the electors were subjected by the non-arrival of the mail. The motion was put and carried.

THB RAILWAY OPENING FESTIVITIES. In the absence of Mr. Aikman, Mr. Ollivieb rose to move for copies of any corres» pondence between the Government and Messrs, Holmes and Co., with reference to the festivities at the opening of the Christchurch and Ferrymead Railway. It was a mat- • ter of the greatest importance that the Council should be put in possession of all the correspondence. He happened to be m the House when the subject was previously . brought under their attention; but at that time it ap- •. peared the Government were not in possession of all the • information bearing on the subject. By seeing the corres- . pondence the Council would be enabled to arrive at a i satisfactory conclusion. The Provincial Secretary said that upon the occasion when the matter had previously been discussed, he that he thought the matter had been brought under tthe notice of the Council rather prematurely. He had, at ithat time, written to the then Provincial Secretary, asking tfor an explanation of the matter, and also if any authority Had been given for the payment of the accounts, having teen previously informed by Messrs. Holmes and Co. that Mr. Holmes had had an interview with his Honor the Superintendent, in the presence of the Provincial Secretary, on the 23rd of November. The letter he received in rep wa * to the effect that he (the late Provincial Secretary) ."egretted he was uuable to furnish any information in additn."* o *° that which he had given to the House on a former He might state that the account he had heard from his -Honor of the transaction tallied with the one given by i hon, member for Heathcote. An arrangement was by which the hon, member for Heathcote was authored on behalf of the Government to enter into an arrange with Messrs, Holmes and Co., the terras of which ha d been esp&med to tho House; also, it was decided that 'be Government would bear half the expenses, which &250, Ho lieved that afterwards there was do further arrangement entered into in respect to the entei "teinment. He laid the letter on the subject, which he had irf possession, on the table of the House.

Mr. Mooehouse remarked that it wou. d bo woll if the matter was referred to a committee. He thought tnat Messrs. Holmes and Co. entertained an opiniort that there existed an intention on the part of the Govei.^n jen ' ; to evade their claim, but, of course, that was a wrong impression on their part. If he was out of order in then /noy* ing that the matter should be referred to a committee, he would do so the following day. Mr. Ollivieh'B motion was then put and carried. . t Mr. Hawkes morecl that this Council, having under its consideration a petition from inhabitants of Christchurch and others, praying that an alteration be made in the arrangement of the piece of ground reserved for public use in the city of Chmtchurch, and known as 'Cathedral square. 1. This Council is of opinion that the alteration prayed for in the said petition, and indicated in the raap attached thereto, is nn important and desirable ■one, and ought to receive the sanction of this Council. ■2. That it is desirable the alteration in question be -effected by means of an Ordinance to be introduced in 'the next session of this Council. Ho thought the matter 'had been so thoroughly discussed outside that it required ' ver y few additional remarks to be made by him. The 1 erection of a Cathedral would very much improve the 'appearance of the city, and would act as no inconvenience Whatever. Mr. Clark seconded the resolutions. Mr. Maude asked whether the Government intended to bring in a Bill on the subject, or whether that duty *ould be left to a private member. He thought the •wads Ordinance must be made use of. Mr. Ollivieb said that the Government had purchased the plot known as Cathedral square from the •original owners, and had consented to allow a road to .Pass through it, which was never dedicated to the public J}^ e > and it was therefore a road by sufferance only. The Council held that the Government should give up

the right of way which had been, by common consent Used as a road; and if an arrangement, could be made in such a manner that the whole public interest would be provided for without any sacrifice, then it would \je i competent for the Government to grant the concession which had been applied for. i The motion was put and carried, BAKAIA AND KOWAI RAILWAY. The Provincial Secretary in rising to move a series of resolutions relative to railways, bridges, &c., said that it would be in the recollection of the Council that the question of erecting a bridge across the Rakaia had been brought before them at the closo of last session. On that occasion a resolution was brought forward by the hon. member for Christchurch; in accordance with which a commission was appointed to report upon the site, materials, and cost of the bridge. The commission did report on the subject, and the report had been laid on the table i.-l 0 ®- 0U8 ° : hut it did not satisfy all the questions which were required to be,answered. The commissioners were directed to report, in addition to the best site for the bridge, upon the materials and cost of its construction. But none of the three questions were thoroughly treated; and it seemed to the Government, before calling the Council together, that in accordance with the resolution passed by the hon. member for Christchurch they should take further advice on the matter, and accordingly an engineer was called upon to make a report. He did so, and that report was now also laid upon the table. He might say that the first resolution was practically a question upon which the Council had decided—(Hear, hear.) —but the second resolution had not been so definitely determined. That resolution referred to the desirability of constructing a railway to the Bakaia, before the time of the building the bridge. It would appear obvious that many advantages would accrue from adopting that course. With regard to the conveying of material to the bridge, it was evident that there would be a very large amount conveyed to the spot for its construction, and that unless the railway was made there would be considerable difficulty in getting the material to the site. The report which was laid on the table stated that unless the railway was prosecuted the cost of the construction of the bridge would be increased by £10,000. Many reasons would occur to hon. members why a great saving would be effected in the conveyance not only of material but supplies, and in bringing workmen to the spot. It would also enable the engineers constantly to superintend the works. The cost of the bridge would be much less, and they might calculate the work being contracted for at a less expense if the facilities for conveying material for its construction were greater. It was quite unnecessary for him to enter into calculations as to whether or not the work would be a paying one; but the Council had decided that the work should be proceeded with, and the country generally was of opinion that it was necessary for the interests of the province the works should be carried out. He thought the best way of proceeding with the resolutions would be by taking the clauses one by one. The Council having gone into committee, the Ist resolution— "That it is essential to the progress of the province that the river Rakaia should be bridged with as' little delay as possible." Was put and carried. The Provincial Secretary next proposed— " That having regard to the economical execution of the said bridge, ana to the numerous and important advantages that would resultfrom the construction of a line of railway leading from Christchurch to the site of the said bridge, it is expedient that that railway should also be made with as little delay as possible." Carried. He next moved—

" That for the purpose of providing the funds necessary for the construction of these works, it is expedient that the sum of £340,000 be raised pursuant to the Canterbury Loan Ordinance, the interest and sinking fund whereof shall be carried into the harbor and railway works' account." Mr. Moobhouse thought that the above resolutionshould be struck out altogether. Mr. Ollivier did not understand why the Council was asked to affirm this matter over and over again. If the Government wished to have an unanimous expression of opinion, the best plan they could pursue would be to put the resolution in proper terms. In the series of resolutions proppsed by the Provincial Secretary, there were two (No. 3 and 8) which were very distasteful indeed. When the latter came on for discussion, he would take the opportunity of referring to it. They all knew that by the Loan Act of 1863, it was stated that a certain sum should be applied for the prosecution of these works. At the time of the passing of that act, they had either been in earnest or the contrary, but they were pledged by that clause. He would like to see the Council agreeing unanimously for once in a desire to prosecute these great works in contemplation without any delay and with vigor; but if the Government wished to have that unanimous expression of opinion, he would suggest that the . clause should be withdrawn, because he did not see the reason why they should seek to burthen the resolutions with clauses which would excite discussion.

Mr. Mooehouse said he thought that the hon. gentlemen on the Government bench were excellent tacticians, trying to bind the Council by resolutions while they had a majority, and so begging a Railway and Harbor Works Bill. That bill might possibly be discussed on some future night when they had not the majority in their favor. Taking that to be the case, he asked if it was fair on the part of ministers to ask the Council to affirm, by resolution, what ought to have the mature consideration awarded to bills. He characterized the proceeding as being nothing but a parliamentary dodge. Mr. Wiison rose to a point of order. The hon. member for Heatbcote had made use of a term which was anything but parliamentary. (Laughter.) Mr. Mooehouse submitted that the word was highly admissible, and had been made use of in places where the face of the hon. member for Geraldine had never been beheld. (Repeated laughter.) Mr. Wilson again remarked that the phrase was not a proper one. Mr. Mooehouse said he had always profited by the lessons of the hon. member, and hoped he would be spared long to enjoy his tuition. (Laughter.) He would, however, withdraw the expression, if distasteful to the hon. member for Geraldine, and would say "Parliamentary manoeuvre."

Mr. Hall suggested the words "Parliamentary tactics." [Laughter.)

Mr. Moobhouse was quite willing to use the words recommended by the hon. member for Mount Cook. It was quite natural that members should feel some reasonable anxiety if, after having affirmed a principle on one day, they were called upon to negative that principle on another. And in like manner did the Government beg the sanction of the resolutions by the Council, because, although they might then have the majority in their favor, on a future occasion it was quite possible that a change might take place. If ministers wanted an appropriation, why did they not ask for an Appropriation Bill. He did not wish that the amount stated in the resolution should be limited; but he did not like to see ministers endeavoring to divest themselves of responsibility, (Hear, hear.) Dr. TußNßPi.il supported the resolution.

Mr. Hall was sure the Government shared the wish of the hon. member for Christchurch, that some resolution should be brought forward and passed unanimously on the subject of the prosecution of the works under discussion. If he would lend them his aid in doing so they would be only too glad to accept it. He.(Mr. Hall) was not certain what portion of the resolution was objected to. Mr. Ollitieb replied that the last two lines were the mewt objectionable. Mr. Hall thought it really necessary that the former portion of the resolution at ail events should be passed. After considerable discussion, on the motion of Mr. TT a t.t.j the last lines of the resolution were omitted. Mr. Oixivier moved, as an amendment, that the entire clause be left out. ~ • Mr. Shand said that if the Government agreed to omit the last two lines of the resolution, he saw no reason why the whole of it should be omitted. The amendment being put, the House divided, and it was lost by a majority of 12. t The Provincial Secretary next moved— "That his Honor the Superintendent be authorised to carry out all necessary surveys and examinations, with a vieif to the construction of these works, and to employ ■uch engineers and other persons as may be necessary for that purpose, at such salary and in such manner as to him may seem meet.

Mr, Moobhouse moved that the words after the word "purpose" be struck out. It was the custom in employing servants to show them their duty and to pay them their wages for its proper execution. The engineer might be paid his commission. It was generally supposed throughout the province that the engineer held the contract for the engineering work on the South line, at a commission of per out, on the cost of the work. He protested against suph ft system being allowed to exist, and said the servants of the Government should always be paid by a fixed salary, Mr. Shand inquired what arrangement had been entered into by the Government with regard to the services of Mr. Doyno.

The Provincial Secretary replied that the Government had entered into but a temporary arrangement with that gentleman ; but there was no such arrangement in existence as that suggested by the hon. member for Heathcote. . . Mr Mooehouse —Am I to understand that it is not tho intention of the Government to pay engineers by commission because if I do not receive a satisfactory answer I am bound to entertain the opinion that the engineer expected to receive a commission from Government. Mr. Hall replied that the Government intended to make the best possible arrangement with regard to the parent of their officers. #0 permanent arrangement had yet been made or determined on. Mr. MooehoUße's amendment was carried. The resolution, as amended, was adopted. The Provincial Secretary moved, "That so soon as financial provision has been made for the same.andby means of such surveys and examinations. the »upenn tendent shall be enabled so to do, it is expedient that contracts should be made for the carrying out of the said W Oii this clause a lengthened discussion took place with reference to the system of letting contracts by tender, during which, in reply to Major Hornbrook, Mr? Hall stated that it was not the intention of

Government to enter into a private contract with any one in the construction of the public works. However, with regard to certain iron work which might Have to be obtained from Eiigland, he thought the tedder should be limited to houses of the highest standing, in (order to ttecure the best possible material. He, therefore, could not pledge the Government to say that everything should be put up to unlimited tender, but at any rate their desire was to let every thing by tender.

. Mr. Moorhouse thought that the reservations of the hon. member might be applied to any extent he chose. They had an engineer in England able and willing to guarantee the soundness of the ironwork sent to this colony, and he therefore hoped the Government would consider the subject, and open their tenders to every one in the country.

The Speaker hoped that the hon. member for Heathcote, than whom none was more anxious that these railways should be constructed, would not now retard them by the means he was proposing. A great deal of time would be wasted by sending to England for tenders. Mr. Moorhouse could see no reason why the tenders should be referred back to New Zealand, provided they had a representative at home with full instructions as to the contract, The Provincial Secretary said that the conduct of the hon. member (Mr. Moorhouse) reminded him of the old proverb, quod licet Jovi, non licet bovi, The resolution, on being put to the House, was carried < "6. That it is expedient that the Superintendent do forthwith purchase, where the same can be obtained at reasonable rates, for the purpose of the said railway, all lands on the line of the same, .with power to deviate from the line at present indicated if by so doing the cost of construction arising from the purchase of land can be materially modified; and that his Honor be authorized to appriate to such purpose such sums of money as may be necessary for that purpose," Carried.

" 7. That it is expedient that the line of railway leading from Christchurch to the Kowai should be surveyed without delay, with a view to the early construction of the said work, and that his Honor the Superintendent be requested to lay the result of such survey with estimates of cost before this Council at its next session." Carried. "8. That his Honor the Superintendent be requested to take the necessary steps for providing for the introduction into the General Assembly at its next sitting, of a Bill to furnish the necessary legal powers for carrying the above resolution into effect." Withdrawn by leave. The House having resumed, the resolutions were brought up and adopted. The House adjourned until next day at the usual hour Thursday, Apbil 28. The Speaker took the chair at 5-20 p.m. Present—The Speaker, Messrs. Westenra, Hawkes, Bowe, Maude, Boss, Bolleston, Hall, Tancred, Stoddart, Hornbrook, Aynsley, Clark, Shand, Wilkin, Lance, Fyfe, Cox, Tosswill, Wilson, Bowler, and Beswick. Prayers were read by the Yen. the Chaplain. The minutes having been read and confirmed, Mr. Wilson, in the absence of the chairman, brought up the report of the Printing Committee, It recommended that the following reports be printed:—Report of the Board of Education; Beport of the Port Officer, and the Beport of the Timaru Roadstead Commission. The Beport was adopted. provincial compulsory land-taking act. Mr. Wilson wished to ask the Provincial Secretary " Whether the Government had taken steps for complying with the law as laid down in section Iv." of the above act. The Provincial Secretary in reply, stated that he intended giving notice that evening to bring the subject under the notice of the House. Mr. Maude desired to know whether a most important provision in the English act was omitted, namely, that in estimating the value of land, they have regard to the increase of value caused by the railway being about to be made. Mr. Hall said that the Government only knew the law as passed by the General Government of New Zealand, which was their guide. He was informed that a clause to that effect had been introduced, but it was deliberately thrown out. MR. DOYNE. Mr. Shand begged to ask the Provincial Secretary " what is the nature of the temporary arrangement made with Mr. Doyne," and also to move—" That a copy of such arrangement and any correspondence referring thereto be laid on the table."

The Provincial Secretary, in reply to the question, stated that an arrangement wat entered into with Mr. Doyne to come to the province for the purpose of giviig advice to the Government on matters of great importance to the colony. The agreement was that he should receive £700 for his services for two months, and if no longer required the sum would be £100U, which would include all expenses. He (Mr. Rolleston) should be happy to place the terms of the arrangement on the table at next sitting of the House. ,• The motion, on being seconded by Mr. Airman, was carried. education bill. In reply to Mr. Hawkes, Mr. Tancred stated that the Government were not prepared to introduce any Education Bill during the present session. PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL BUILDING FUND. In reply to Mr. Aikman, in the absence of Dr. Turnbull, The Provincial Secbetaby replied that he would give notice of a resolution which would meet the wishes of the hon. member. A sum of £2000 was given last session for the purpose of building schools, the proportions to the different bodies being:—Church of England, £1003 j Presbyterian Church, £161; Wesleyan Church, £334; and of this sum of £161 only £100 was paid to the Presbyterian Church, thus leaving £61 as an outstanding liability. He would bring a resolution before the House to placc this sum upon the estimates. SUBSIDY TO THE GEELONG. Mr. Rowe moved " that a copy of the contract entered into by the late Government with the agent or proprietors of the steamer Geelong, subsidising that vessel at a cost of £1000, be laid on the table." Mr. Clabk, in seconding the motion, stated that having been at Akaroa for a few weeks, he found that the steamer failed on several occasions to call at that port during the fruit season, thereby causing great loss to the inhabitants. The Provincial Secretary thought that the hon. member for Akaroa could not have done less than bring lliis matter before the Council. He would be prepared to lay the correspondence upon the table. A monthly subsidy was being paid to the owners of the vessel. Oif the occasion alluded to, he (Mr. Rolleston) at once wrote that the contract was at an end, and the subsidy for that month was surrendered. Motion carried. VOTE OF THANKS TO CROSBIE WARD, ESQ. Mr. H all moved " that the thanks of this House are hereby tendered to Crosbie Ward, Esq., for the ability and success with which he has negoeiated the contract between the Intercolonial Royal Mail Company, and the Colony of New Zealand for the conveyance of mails by way of Panama, and which contract, when carried into effect, will, in the opinion of this Council, be productive of numerous advantages to this province and to the rest ot Hew Zealand. That the Speaker be requested to forward a copy of these resolutions to Miv Wara." He thought it would be unnecessary to dwell upon the advantages and importance of this contract; he could add nothing useful to what had been said on the subject both in the Council and elsewhere. The contract would be exceedingly advantageous, and one which, if repudiated, would inflict a severe blow upon the credit of the colony. He would, however say a few words upon Mr. Ward's conduct in the matter. They should bear in mind that when he went, home for the purpose of negociating this contract, he had authority to give a subsidy of £30,000 a year towards carrying the mails via Pivnama. He was placed in communication with the agent of South Wales; that gentleman, whose powers were limited, drew back on the English Government refusing to have anything to do with it, as lie was authorised to contribute only to a service in co-operation with the British Government. Considerin" the sum formerly asked for this service, which mounted up as high as £200,000, and the fact that Mr. Ward had only £30,000 to offer, they would see that it required great courage in any gentleman to go on with the undertaking ; but Mr. Ward did carry it out. He had also another great difficulty to contend against, he meant the real objection which is felt in olficial quarters in England towards the establishment of the Panama route; and this feeling was not an unnatural one when they considered that whatever tends to increase the communication by way of Suez is a very great gam to them, for it not only furnishes an additional communication between England and these colonies, but also between England and India. They therefore refused altogether to contribute to the other route. Mr. Ward had also to contend with the influence—a very formidable one too—of the P. and 0. Company. That company are, or at any rate were before this contract was entered into, endeavoring to establish a fornightly mail with Australia by Suez, which mail could not be earned out if the Panama route were established. He had also he assumed, to contend against the interest of the western colonies of Australia, which waß exerted in favor of the Suez route, for by it they are earlier in the arrival as well as later in the departure of the mails. Mr. Ward, in a mannor which they could not too higlily appreciate, overcame all these difhculties and established a contract on terms more advantageous than any contract ever entered into, as they might see from the statement ho would give them. For instance, for the conveyance of the mails between England, the West Indies, Gulf of Mexico, and the Brazils, the contract has been £270,000 a year; the service to China and the East Indies, £160,000*; while from Liverpool to New York, a very short distance, the payment is £135,000 per annum, Mr. Ward induced a company which had since given proof of its ability to cany out the contract by way of Panama for the sum of £63,000, and that upon a line devoid of trade at the present moment. To have accomplished this the Council would feel required very great exertion, ability, judgment, and tact; and they could not do less than tender their thanks to Mr. Ward for having brought it to such a successful issue. Before sitting down, he would read a letter from the Superintendent of Wellington to the Superintendent of Canterbury, which would famish them with some information as to the probable

result of the protreding the Council had recenl'y taken. Mr. Hall read the letter, which was dated April 20. It stated that tHb Superiritcridbnt of Wellington would recommend the Legislature of that province, on the meeting of the Council, which would take place in about a month's time, to co-operate With this province in carrying out the contract by contributing its share of the £30,000 required as a guarantee. He (Mr. Hall) considered it most satisfactory as giving this province the powerful support of the province of Wellington, and he had no doubt they would receive the support of other provinces also.

Mr. Moorhouse rose with the utmost possible gratification to second the motion. He had not the slightest doubt that a very large amount of benefit would result from establishing this communication with England, and he had every reason to believe that no ordinary ability had been required in overcoming the great difficulties that lay in the way of bringing this contract to a satisfactory conclusion. The action taken by the Council in the matter had his fullest sympathy, and he was sure it would be a source of gratification to Mr. Ward as a. public servant to find his services acknowledged in that manner, for it formed a part of the enjoyment of a man's life to find his services appreciated by a grateful country. He had very great pleasure in seconding the resolution. The motion was carried nem. con. opening of the railway. Mr. Moobhouse on rising to move that a select committee be appointed to consider the claims of Messrs. Holmes and Co., said that in consequence of a communication received from the Provincial Secretary, he thought that the purpose of the committee would be served without their sitting. As far as he understood it, an interview had taken place between the Government and Messrs. Holmes and Co., and an arrangement come to that would render the committee unnecessary.

The Provincial Sbobetaby explained. The hon. member had misunderstood him. He (Mr. B.) had had an interview with Messrs. Holmes & Co., who agreed to abide by the decision of the late Provincial Secretary, which tallied with that given by the hon. member for Heathcote. Ho was in a position to state that the Government were quite ready to agree with what was arranged by the late Government as represented by the late Provincial Secretary, and the member for Heathcote; the terms being, he believed, that the Provincial Government should pay half the expenses of the festivity up to £<150, and the working expenses of the line for that day.

Mr. Moorhouse was certainly under a misapprehension. He understood that Messrs. Holmes & Co. were content to abide by the decision of the executive. He did not wish to superintend the operations of the Government. It was communicated to him that it was the intention of his Honor to prorogue the Council to-morrow. Now by his motion the Committee were to report on Monday. The Provincial Secretary thought it due to state that the business of the Council would close to-morrow, and therefore that the motion would be ineffective. Mr. Moorhouse would therefore press his motion. He had a very imperfect understanding as to what the mind of the late. Provincial Secretary was, and how far his statement might tally with his (Mr. M.'s) own. He would move the resolution for the purpose of seeing whether there was a contract first, and then as to what the contract was. All he knew was that there was an arrangement, but departed from very materially; and evidence should be taken with a view to come at the whole truth. However, if the Government would undertake to take evidence, he should only be too glad to withdraw the motion.

Mr. Maude said that when this subject was brought before the House the other night, the Provincial Secretary was pleased to remark that the letter he (Mr. Maude) had addressed to him was an act of discourtesy to the Government. If so, he begged to apologise. Any explanation he gave did not clear away the difficulty at all. They had yet to learn what the contracting party to this agreement had to say. His own position at the time was simply that of one who held office until a successor should be appointed, and therefore considered himself entirely relieved from responsibility, after having once handed in his letter of resignation. It would be better to go to the Superintendent and ask his account of the matter. He should also like to know why the Provincial Secretary had not informed the House the other night that the Government had received a communication from Messrs. Holmes and Co., stating the whole facts of the case.

The Provincial Secretary explained. The hon. member must have been inattentive at,the time, for he (Mr. Rolleston) had stated that a letter was received from Messrs. Holmes and Co.

Mr. Maude : The impression of the House was that no such letter was in the hands of the Government at all. He could only repeat what he said the other night; he was not in the position of a party contracting; and what passed was best known to his Honor, who was the contracting party with Holmes and Co. The Provincial Secretary protested against any gentleman considering himself relieved from responsibility and holding otlice at the time. Mr. Maude considered that for all parties concerned it would be better that the committee should sit. He was prepared to give every information. Mr. Wilson differed from the last speaker. If Messrs Holmes and Co. agreed to abide by the view which the late Provincial Secretary had given of the case where was the U3e of a committee ? Mr. Wilkin believed if the Government of the day had ordinary courage they would have settled Messrs. Holmes and Co.'s acecount at once; and on coming to this House for indemnity would have received it, as had always been done to any reasonable amount. He thought their conduct was to throw dirt on the late Government. Mr. Clabk thought the committee ought to be appointed, as he considered it the only way to have evidence of the late Provincial Secretary. Mr. Maude : Does the hon. member mean that I retain any evidence ? Mr, Clark—Yes. Mr. Maude, with warmth—Then, sir, I move that the hon. member's words be taken down. Mr. Clark begged to explain. Mr. Beswick—lf the hon. members would give all that transpired between the Government and Holmes and Co., the House might come to a solution of the question that night. He himself would not. vote a single sixpence to Messrs. Holmes and Co. He had been mvited by them as a guest, and therefore he did not consider himself as bound to pay. Mr, Maude wished to know whether any hon. member was at liberty to accuse any other hon. member of keeping back information which ought to be given to the House. Mr. Ross considered that the hon. member for Sefton had himself to blame. He said he would be glad were a committee appointed, and then he would state everything. Mr. Maude explained that what he meant was that ho should give every information he had already given. . • Mr. Ross thought it was further evidence that was required. The hon. gentlemen had misrepresented what passed the other night. The Provincial Secretary stated that he had consulted his Honor, and he gave the result to the House, which tallied with that given by the hon. members for Sefton and Heathcote. Dr. Tubnbull considered that the late Provincial Secretary had given his account of the transaction in the honorable manner in which he always acted; and from his knowledge of the honorable character of that gentleman ho could see no necessity for a committee.

Mr. Fyfe agreed that there was no need for a committee.

Mr. TANCREf) thought it advisable that the hon. member for Timaru should specify the charge he brought against the present Government of attempting to throw dirt upon the late Government.

Mr. Wilkin would explain. The charge was that the Government did not treat this account as an ordinary measure before the Council. It was quite evident that some understanding did exist between his Honor and Messrs. Holmes & Co., and therefore why did the Government not settle the matter. Was there a member who would object to indemnify his Honor for this money P Instead of pursuing that course, however, they came down and stated their grievance to the House, and wished its decision upon the matter, From the action of the Government he understood they did not wish the Committee to be appointed. (" No, no," from the Govern, ment bench.) The Provincial Secretary explained that he did it out of courtesy. Mr. Shand was certain that there was something in the background with which the • House was not conversant. Mr. Maude again brought the matter of the charge made against him before tne House, and wished the hon. member to apologise. Mr. Clark was desirous simply of hearing everything, in order that no charge could be brought against the House of having repudiated any arrangement made by his Honor. He would withdraw his words. Mr. Maude professed himself satisfied. Mr. Hall thought it was now the turn of the Government to complain. (Laughter.) They were the injured parties. He would give a full account of the truth as ho knew it. When the present Government came to office, a bill was sent in to them, of which no record could be found in the office authorising the expenditure of this sum. It was in pursuance of an arrangement made with the late Provincial Secretary. Messrs. Holmes and Co. were l requested to bring a certificate of the arrangement, which had never been furnished. After that the Government were informed that the late Provincial Secretary would call upon the Superintendent about the matter; but the hon. member had never done so. The session went on; Messrs. Holmes and Co. were written to stating that the Government could take no steps in the matter. An answer was received, which had been laid on the table. It appeared that a modification had been made upon the first arrangement. They knew now the view of the matter taken by Messrs. Holmes & Co.; they also know the taken by his Honor; and now they wanted to get the view of the late Provincial Secretary. He said he resigned his office, and therefore was not responsible. He (Mr. Hall) denied that doctrine. He drew his salary, and was ho not responsible for his workP—[Mr. Maude: Not for the work of the Superintendent.]— Precisely; was that the work of the Superintendent? (Hear, hear.) A salaried officer called upon by his successor in office for information with regard to circumstances of which he was cognizant as Provincial Secretary, was bound to give that information.—[Mr. Maude : It has been given!]— It has been given! How was that ? He, wrote a letter and then apologised for it. The most straightforward

course would huvo boon to liiive told in that letter what he told to the House; by not doing so he took a most erroneous view of the He (Mr. Hall) had given the Hotise the bare facts, and ho wished to know whether they were to be accused or not.

Mr. "Wilkin would withdraw his charge, if the Government Would not oppose the committee. The Provincial Seceetaby was sorry that the lion, gentleman was under a misapprehension. He seemed to think that the Government had some sinister motive in bringing this matter under the notice of the House. It was brought on prematurely, and at a time when the Council would remember that a letter from him to the late Provincial Secretary was in passage. He hoped these facts would clear the Government of any wish to indulge in sinister motives. He had no wish to oppose the committee.

Mr. Moobhouse thanked the Provincial Secretary for his courtesy. The Government were newly in office, and were what is called " new brooms." By the time they had been four years in office, they would not be so ready to find out faults in others. The Council had been favored with their opinion on the position of a minister, and the public would look narrowly to see whether their highsounding professions would correspond with their practice. If hon. members would in their executive capacity take evidence in the matter before the House, and make full inquiry into the matter, he should be happy to leave the subject in their hands.

The Provincial Seceetaby said that the Government would be ready to consider the case with the evidence before them. According to the statement of the late Provincial Secretary, there is a contract with the Government to the effect that they shall pay the expenses up to £250. The Government had no wish to shirk the engagements of a previous administration. He was prepared to say that the Government would consider the case, and would be prepared to that extent to comply with • the arrangement as they believed it to have been made. Mr. MoorhoußE wished to know whether the case were already closed. If so he would decline withdrawing his motion. The Pbovincial Seceetaby had no wish that the motion should be withdrawn. Mr. MaORHOiTSE—I shall not withdraw my motion. I shall have an opportunity of examining his Honor. The Pbovincial Seceetaby said he had the statement of his Honor, and it tallied with that of the hon. member for Heathcote, and the late Provincial Secretary. He should be glad, however, to have further evidence. Mr. Wilson begged to be excused from acting on the Committee. Mr. Tancbed suggested the report might be brought up to-morrow. Mr. Hall suggested that no member of the Government should be on the Committee, as every one of them was accused of something or another. (Laughter.) Mr. Aikman moved that " the names of Messrs. Stoddart and Hawkes be put in place of Messrs. Wilson and Hall." Mr. Hawkes had no wish to have anything to do with it. (Laughter.) Mr. Mooehouse moved as an amendment, that the Committee report on Tuesday. This was on the suggestion of the hon. member for Mount Cook. (Wo, no, no, from Mr. Hall.) Mr. MoorhoußE—Surely the hon. member is not to necessitate the prorogation to-morrow. Mr. Tancbed explained it would, if the report had not to be brought up. After considerable discussion, and the motion being on the point of withdrawal several times, and as often brought forward again Mr. Mooehouse moved, " That a Select Committee be appointed to consider the claims of Messrs. Holmes and Co., in respecttotheopening of theChristchurchandFerrymead Kailway, to consist of Messrs. Shand, Stoddart, Aikman, Howe, Hawkes, and the mover, with power to call persons, books, and papers. To report to-morrow." The House divided: Ayes, 17; Noes 6. The motion was therefore carried.

RAILWAY, &C.—WORKS FUND BTT.T,. Mr. Hail moved the second reading and committal of the bill. In doing so, he said it contained provisions which which would entirely remove from hon. members' minds the impression that the scheme which the Government submitted to the Council involved anything like repudiation of any former engagement.

Mr. Maude hoped that the Government would consent to postponing the bill until next session- in order to have an opportunity of ascertaining the views of the General Government upon the matter. It was not likely that the General Government would concede a scheme to Canterbury differing from that of all the other provinces. Mr. Mooehouse had not the slightest idea of what action the General Government would take in the matter. He believed we were commencing a policy—and he protested most vehemently against it—which would eventually bring us down to the level of provinces far below us. He warned the Government that Canterbury would be roused, and its tongue loosed before long on the matter. After a reply from Mr. Hall, the motion was put and carried. On the motion of Mr. Hall, the House went into Committee to consider the bill. Captain Westenra in the chair. The several clauses having been put to the House and carried, the bill was then reported to the House and adopted. AUDIT BEPOBT. The Auditor's report was laid on the table and read. Mr. Shand asked-whether or not it was the intention of the Government to have the report printed. Mr. Hall replied that, as there was a printing committee, it was not the duty of the Government to take any steps towards having the document printed. It was always published in the Gazette. THE RANGITATA CREEK. The Provincial Secbetaby said that the commission had recommended that immediate steps should be taken to prevent the River Rangitata taking other than its proper course. Like the Waimakariri, it had taken other courses, and was spreading through the country in all directions. The Government had instructed Mr. Doyne to report on the best means of remedying the evil; but they wished to consult the Council, before taking such steps as might seem advisable in the matter. He moved " That in the opinion of this Council the recommendation of the Railway and Bridge Commission relating to the Rangitata Creek should be carried into effect as soon as possible." The motion was carried. GRANT FOB ACCLIMATIZATION. The Provincial Secbetaby wished to withdraw some words which had been inserted in the next resolution standing in his name by inadvertence, and that it should read thus—" To move the House into a Committee of Supply to sanction the expenditure of a sum not exceeding £1000"—(the words "during the present financial year" being here struck out) —"in fencing and planting the Government Domain, with a view to render it suitable for purposes of acclimatization." The House then went into a Committee of Supply, and The Provincial Secretary said that the Government, in asking for the sum of £1000, contemplate that more than a quarter of the amount will be expended before the end of the financial year. It was intended that no time should be lost in preparing the ground for planting purposes before the winter set in. He considered it needless to point out the advantages which would naturally arise to Christchuvch by the establishing of recreation grounds and a garden for the public. For this purpose the Government proposed to enter into arrangements with the society lately formed with a view to have the garden and recreation grounds established; but for the present the Government intended to keep the fencing and working of the ground in their own hands. The Government had also another object in view. It was. quite probable that during the winter a great number of laborers would be out of employment, and they could be engaged and placed under the Government Gardener for trenching purposes. He was sure the Council would see the advantage of a step of this kind, not* only with a view of contributing towards the health and enjoyment of the people of Christchurch, but also for the purposes of giving employment to those likely to be out of work during the approaching winter.

Dr, Tubnbull said that before the question was put, he wished to ask if it would not be advisable for the Government to ascertain under what form of government the Acclimatization Society would be managed. He thought there ought to be a guarantee given to the effect; that the regulations would be properly carried out, and that no system of exclusion would be allowed to enter into such regulations. Mr. Beswick remarked that, as regards the Acclimatization Society, it was impossible that the arrangements for the establishment of a garden and recreation grounds could be carried out unless the property was handed into its possession; and it was equally impossible that the grounds could be thrown open to the public at all times. He had not the slightest doubt that it was the intention of the Society to place no obstacle in the way of the public enjoyment; but, at the same time, the grounds could not always be open to the public. Some restrictive powers must necessarily be held in the hands of the Society.

Tho Provincial Seceetary said the Government had no intention of offering any restriction as far as the privileges of the public wero concerned, but, on the contrary, would see that every arrangement made was for their benefit. Ho thought the House could certainly leave it to the Government to make arrangements with the Acclimatization Society. As yet, no definite arrangement had been entered into; but the Society intended to act with the Government for the general good. As he had said, no dofinito arrangement had been entered into, but in talking tho matter over to members of the Society, a proposal to the effect that two or three of its members should act in concert with members of the Government in promoting the ends they had in view, met with their unanimous concurrence. SUPPLEMENTARY ESTIMATES. The Council went into Committee of Supply. The Pkovincul Seceexary said that in rising to move a vote of indemnity to his Honor—as the Auditor's account had only been laid on tho table a few minute* previous—he felt himself asking a good deal from the House, when he requested it to at once devote attention to the different items at bo short a notice; but he thought that under tho circumstances, it was desirable that they should proceed with the unvoted expenditure, so as not to render the session longer than was necessary. He would therefore, proceed to give a statement of the general account, which had been on the table for two days previously

The first item of over-expenditure was £375 10s. od., which sum stood against the Loan Ordinance, and would move that a NUin not exceeding that amount be granted; Carried. The next item was £674 12s 3d for over-expenditure on Bank charges for remittances during the past nine months. On a question by Mr. Hawkes, the Provincial Sbcbetaby explained that there had been no allowance made in the estimates for charges on remittances of funds. Mr. Aynbley said that surely there would be no Batik «harge on remittances of money paid in Canterbury. The Pbovincial Secbhtary said it included also in* terest paid upon the advances made by the Union Bank of Australia.

Mr. Hawkes—ls that interest on overdrafts ? The Pbovincial Secbetaey—Part of the amount. Mr. Beswick suggested that, as the money had all been spent, it might be as well for the Council to it as a lump sum; but Mr. Hawkes objected to such a course being pursued. The money had been spent, and, consequently, the C o^®l ® must vote indemnity For it. He thought tnat everyex» planation ahould be given for every item expended. . Mr. Beswick said that the Auditor in liis report had informed them that he could not give an explanation for every item. Mr. Hawkes—But I find an over-expenditure of £450, and I should liko to have an explanation as regards the way in which that amount lias been spent. Mr. Hall The charges consist—firstly, of all the interest on overdrafts allowed by the Union Bank of Australia, and secondly, the charges made on remittances towards the Lyttelton and Christchurch Bailwav bv the Loan Ordinance of 1862. The Chaibman then put the motion, which wii carried. The PROVINCIAL Secbetary next moved that £128 12s (|d be granted for over-expenditure, on account of the expenses of the session of the Supreme Court. As was explained in the auditors' report, that was an item over which there was no control. It was regulated by tho number, of prisoners sent for trial. The amount was passed. He also moved that the sum of £195 19s lid bo granted for over-expenditure on account of prisoners rations and clothing in Lyttelton jail. This excess was only to be accounted for by the increased number of prisoners in confinement. The item was sanctioned. For over-expenditure on account of fuel in Lyttelton jail; he would move that a sum of £63 12s be granted. Mr. Wilson would like to know how such an amount had occurred in excess of the sutn voted. Had coals or wood been burnt? During the past season the price of fuel had been low, generally speaking. The Pbovincial Secketary said that the excess was certainly a large one, and could only account for it by reason of there not having been a sufficient amount provided on the estimates for the purpose. The vote was then passed. The Pkovincial Seceetary moved that the sum of £128 16s 9d be granted for over-expenditure incurred under the head of " miscellaneous " in the Lyttelton Jail. Mr. Hawkes wished to know how the excess had been expended—whether or not a part of the amount had been spent in employing a sufficient number of warders ? The Provincial Seceetaey—The salaries of warders are not included in the item. A portion of the amount has been spent in the purchase of blankets and in the making of repairs. The amount was granted. The-Pbovincial Secbbtaby moved for the sanction of the House for the sum of £38 19s 2d, over-expenditure incurred on account of rations for the prisoners m.Christchurch jail. Mr. HAWKES said he would vote against this amount being sanctioned, because he considered that a great deal of food had been wasted. He had passed and re-passed the jail several times, and had observed as much good victuals thrown out as would be sufficient for any man for a, whole day. He considered that the prisoners in the jail were far better fed than the inmates of workhouses in England—(laughter)—and it was a great sin, in his opinion, for the province to provide such a quantity of food to persons confined for the commission of crime. And withal, the prisoners had to be coaxed to take it. Dr. Tubnbull said that if prisoners had to be coaxed to take the food, it would account for the amount of overexpenditure. Mr. Wilson asked the Provincial Secretary if he could furnish him with any information as to when the prisoners confined in the jail at Lyttelton would be brought over to Christchurch, and put under proper discipline. The Pbovincial Secbetaby, in reply to the hon. member, hoped the Government would take steps in the matter at once. With respect to the erection of a jail, the estimate was far beyond the means of the province. The vote passed. The Pbovincial Secbetaby said that the next item of over-expenditure—£46so 3s 6d on account of emigration—was one which required some explanation. As was stated in the Auditor's report, a considerable portion of the amount was for expenses incurred in consequence of two ships being pluced in quarantine. The expenses incurred on rations had considerably increased, from the fact that a number of emigrants were kept on hand for a long period. There was also a great expense incurred from having immigration barracks at Lyttelton, in Christchurch, the Lincoln road, and also a depot at Eangiora. He had laid on the table a return of the increased expenditure incurred at each of those places.

Mr. Aynslky asked if the Government intended to place the whole amount as immigration expenditure, or if a portion was to go against charitable aid.

The Provincial Secretary replied that it would not be fair to charge any portion of the amount against char, itable aid. There were other sums which, if charged against immigration, would render the sum very considerable; but to put a third of the amount, as suggested, against the charitable aid would at once keep the Government from distributing any more aid.

Mr. Stoddart said that in his opinion there were no quarantine regulations whatever in existence. He had been visited by many who had left quarantine two days after being placed there. Unless some means could be devised towards keeping persons in quarantine, it would only be a waste of public money to place immigrants there under the present system.

Mr. Hawkes requested the Provincial Secretary to inform him whether any of the amount of over-expendi-ture had been spent for drainage or building purposes.

"The Provincial Secretary replied in the negative. Dr. Turnbull remarked very strongly upon the danger arising in consequence of newly arrived immigrants being allowed to escape from quarantine before the proper time. Diseases of all kinds might be extend over the whole country, and he hoped the Government would dense some means whereby the public could be guarded from inroada of fever andothor diseases.

Mr. Kowb remarked that he had known several to escape from quarantine, and go over to Akaroa shortly after their arrival.

Mr. Hawkes said that the escape of immigrants from quarantine arose from the fact that there was not a sufficient number of officers to keep them in control. In the quarantine barracks, the young women were supposed to be under control' of the matron, and the single men and married couples under the superintendence of the doctor. There were also a housekeeper and steward; but he could not see how four officers could keep a ship's company in quarantine. It was impossible to prevent the escape of immigrants unless the Government went to the further expense of appointing a sufficient number of officers for thepurposeofkeepmg the immigrants in quarantine ground. Mr. Ayxslky said that he had heard it stated that three sailors had refused to give evidence in the Magistrate's Court against the captain of a ship for misconduct while in quarantine. Mr. Hall remarked that the Coimcil should not allow itself to be carried too far by the statements which had been made by several hon. members. No doubt, it was true that immigrant-s had broken the quarantine regulations on several occasions, although the ground was clearly defined; but he thought his hon. friend opposite would bear him out m saying that, since quarantine had been established, it had a very beneficial effect, and had prevented the spreading of disease. The Government would like some one to suggest what would be the best means of providing against the breaking of quarantine regulations. Mr. Stoddart said that such could be done by confining persons breaking the regulations for the space of three months. (Laughter.)

The Provincial Secretart stated that when vessels were put in quarantine constables were appointed, and every precaution taken to have the regulations observed, and he was sure the Council would give the Government every credit for taking all the steps that lay in their power to keep the immigrants within bounds. The Speaker complained of the regulations adopted in quarantine. In fact, it would be much better if their quarantine barracks wero converted into emigration barracks; and then, if parties escaped from them, the proper way would be not to receive them again. He thought it impossible under the present, state ot things to keep up a strict system of quarantine regulations. The rote in question was then put and passed.

The Provincial Secretary next asked the sanction of the House to £350 5s 6d over expenditure for fuel for the various barracks (a considerable portion of which belonged to the previous financial year; for £146 0s 6d for printing, advertising, and stationery; for £4 17s (id over-expenditure on account of extra clerical aid; for £39 4s 6d, insurance; for £200 nominal over-expendi-ture on the Tiiuaru Mechanics' Institute (tHe expenditure being supplemented by an equal amount from persons living in the place; for £98 14s Fd, over-expenditure for the Akaroa Mechanics' Institute; for £968 7s 4d, nominal over-expenditure in aid of church buildings; all of which received the sanction of the House.

Considerable merriment was created when the Provincial Secretary rose to ask a vote of the House for the sum of fourpence, over-expenditure incurred by his Honor on account of the commemoration of the marriage of their Eoyal Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Wales. Hon. members, who had never before bean observed to betray the smallest semblance of a smile, laughed outright; the mover himself could not refrain from sharing in the mirth occasioned at his expense; and Mr. Hawkes, more, curious than anyone else, requested to know how the amount was expended; but, heedless of the request — The Provincial Secretary rose and moved the next item, namely, a sum not exceeding £1,634 3s. lOd. overexpenditure on account of contingencies. The amount was sanctioned. The Provincial Secretart asked the sanction of the House for £137 16s. Id., over expenditure on account of surveys, and the amount was granted. In all, £16,50*2 16s. sd. was granted as unvoted expendi*ure* Notices of motion having been given— The House ac(j«urned till next evening at the usual hour.

Friday, April 29. The Speaker took tho chair shortly after five o'clock. The other members present were—Messrs. Hall, Ross, Tancred Rolleston, Moorhouse, Wostenra, Maude, Clarke, Howe Hornbrook, Tosswill, A.ynsley, Wilson, Beswick, Hawkes, White, Shand, Turnbull, and Aikman. Provers having been road by the'Ven. tho Archdeacon of Akaroa, , , The minutes of previous meeting were read and confirmed. OPENING OF THE RAILWAY. The report of the committee on the claim of Messrs. Holmes and Co., was brought up and read. The report stated that on account of the short time which had elapsed since the committee was appointed, it was tound impossible to secure tho attendance of such witnesses as were necessary towards having a satisfactory investigation, and the committee, therefore, were of opiuion that if a partial investigation was entered into some unnecessary discussion would arise. RAILWAY FUND BILL. Mr Hall moved the third reading of the Railway and Harbour Works Fund Bill, and the Provincial Secretary having seconded tho motion, the bill was read for the third time, and passed. LYTTELTON HARBOTJR WORKS. The Provincial Secretary laid on the table a copy of a letter received from Mr. Bray with regard to the harbour at Lyttelton; and also a copy of correspondence received on the building of custom houses at Lyttelton and Christchurch. LAND BILLB STANDING ORDERS.

With regard to the adoption of rules and standing order, for regulating the introduction and passing of Bills under the Provincial Compulsory Land Taking Act, 1863, Mr. Hall said that there were legal difficulties which would prevent the Council passing any rules at present, and he would, therefore, ask to withdraw the motion standing in his name. . Mr. Moorhouse requested the hon. member to state the difficulties. . , Mr. Hall said the Act had not yet received the Royal Assent, and he had hoped, in anticipation of that assent, that the rules and standing order might have beenadopted; but, on looking more closely into the matter it appeared that whatever steps might be taken would turn out to be totally void. , , , Mr. WllSON—Then I presume that untd these orders are prepared, the Act itselt is null and void. Mr. Hall—lt is entirely inoperative. Leave to withdraw the motion was granted. LINCOLN ROAD BARRACKS. Mr. Hawkes, in moving that a detailed return of the total cost of the Immigration Barracks on the Lincoln road be laid on the table, showing how they were built, whether by contract or otherwise, said his reason for proposing the motion was simply in order to obtain information as to the manner in which tho barracks had been erected. They had been built upon a very bad system. The motion, being seconded by Mr. Clark, - was put and carried. The Provincial Secretary laid the return on the table, and said that in it it was not stated whether the barrack had been erected by contract or not. He had hardly had time to inquire into the matter, but he was able to inform the hon. gentleman that a part of the building was performed by contract. BUILDING STONES. Mr. Hawkes moved " That a respectful address be presented to his Honor the Superintendent, praying him to appoint a scientific commission to examine into, and report on the strength, cost, and other comparative advantages of the materials within the province available for building purposes (public and private) in Christchurch." The idea of appointing a committee had emanated from his Honor the Superintendent at the time when a great improvement was first proposed in all the public buildings. There were so many different kinds of stone brought into the market that, as they were going to enter upon the erection of large works, it was thought advisable that stone of the best quality should be selected. He knew that the proprietors of the different quarries were ready to bring in specimens of stone and to render eveiy possible information on the subject if requested to do so. Mr. Beswick thought it was wholly unnecessary that a Commission should yet be appointed, because the Council were not aware of the expense which might thereby be incurred. He considered that the matter should be left to private enterprise. The appointment of a committee ■was quite inadvisable, because it would be in the recollection of several hon. members that a commission was appointed to select materials for the erection of a great work in England, the Houses of Parliament, the result of which turned out to be that the very worst materials were selected. - Mr. Aynsley agreed with the hon. member in thinking that the appointment of a commission was unnecessary at the present time. Mr. Rolleston remarked that the motion was rather premature, but at a future time such a motion might prove to be desirable. Mr. Hawkes thought the Council should procure all information on the subject as early as possible. The Speaker put the motion, which was carried. The House then went into Committee of Supply to consider the following resolutions: — " 1. That this Council will indemnify his Honor for the payment of the sum of £295 lis 3d inadvertently omitted Rom last yar's estimates under the head of Education. 2. That this Council will indemnify his Honor for the payment of sums due on account of the Diversion of Roads, to an amount not exceeding £1500, within the remainder of the present financial year. 3. That this Council will indemnify his Honor for the expenditure of a sum not exceeding £220, for the erection of a Pound in Christchurch. 4. That this Council is of opinion that the accommodation at the Lunatic Asylum should be increased without delay, and will indemnify his Honor for any expenditure incurred with that view, to an amount not exceeding £250 within the financial year. 5. That the Council will indemnify his Honor for the expenditure of a sum not exceeding £1000 for engineering services in connection with preliminary reports upon thß Waimakariri, Bangitata, and Rakaia Rivers, and the Great Southern Railway and other important works." The Provincial Secretary, in rising to move the first resolution, said that upon the estimates of the previous year a sum of £2000 was placed to be distributed amongst the various denominations. The Church of England was to receive £1000 16s 3d; Presbyterian Church, £161 los; and the Wesleyan Church, £334 8s 9d. The Presbyterian Church, during the financial year, had omitted to claim the whole sum that had been allocated to it. The balance it had left unclaimed was £61 6s, which amount should have appeared as an outstanding liability on the estimates of the present year. In the same manner the Church of England had not drawn the entire amount, and there remained due to it a balance ot £233 5s 3d. That left an entire balance due of £295 lis 3d; and he moved that the amount be sanctioned.

Dr. Turnbuij. said that he himself had moved for the sum of £2000, and of that amount £500 was voted for the purpose of building a High school on a similar footing to that upon which the College Grammar School was erected. He had promised, on behalf of the Presbyterian Denomination, that that £500 would be supplemented by private contributions. The injustice he had to complain of was that the Government had not considered that a greater Amount than £61 6s would be due to the Presbyterian .denomination as a balance, because they had undertaken works which would Co3t £87. The late Executive had promised faithfully that this matter would be settled on its own merits. As an amendment he would move that the sum be £321 116 3d be substituted for the amount standing in the resolution. After a little discussion, the amendment was put and carried.

The Provincial Secbetary, in moving resolution No. 2, stated that there existed a great many outstanding claims for compensation, in consequence of roads being made through private property; aiid, although it was quite possible the payments would not amount to the sum stated in the resolution during the year, it was very desirable to have the sanction of the Council for an amount which would compensate claimants after that period. Tlie resolution was passed. In moving the third resolution, the Provincial .Secretary said that the Pound now in existence was out of Christchurch and inconvenient, in consequence of which the Government were justified in asking a grant of a sum not exceeding £220 for the erection of a new Pound.

Mr. Wilson asked if a portion of the sum was intended for the building of a house for the Pound- keeper. The Provincial Secretary replied the amount did not include any sum for such a purpose. Mr. Moorhousk said that the sum asked for was enormous, and wished to know if any revenue would accrue if a new pound were formed.

The Provincial Secretary—No revfnue has been hitherto derivable, but it is tlie intention of the Government that the pound-keeper shall take the pound at a yearly rental. Mr. Moor house —With authority to levy fines. The Pbovincial Secretary—Yes.

Mr. Shand—Shall the pound-keeper be allowed to levy fines according to his own ideas ? (Laughter.) If the Government intend to let the pound at a yearly rental, they will get very few to take it. Mr. Hal/Ii —The ordinance speaks as to what fines should be levied. I think my lion, friend fears wc arc going to levy illegal charges. Mr. WILSON—It is well known that in Australia very large amounts are made by pound-keepers, and I have not the slightest doubt that, if* the Government of Canterbury advertise for tenders, thoy will find individuals to lease the pound without any difficulty whatever. The resolution was passed. The Pbovincial Secbetaey, in moving the 4th resolution, said that with regard to the Asylum, it was absolutely necessary that some additional accommodation nhould be furnished, as there were in it at the present time as many inmates as could be accommodated with safety. Originally, the building was intended to accommodate only six females! but there were now double that number. There were sixteen men confined in the building, where there was room for seventeen only, and therefore there could be but one other admitted. He was not in a position to state what amount would be required for additions, but asked the authority of the Council to make whatever additions were found to be necessary. If such a step were not followed, the consequence would be that the jails would be filled with lunatics only. Mr. Shand asked the Provincial Secretary if it was the intention of the Government to provide proper accommodation for the keepers. The accommodation at

present given to tho mastor and matron was of such a kind that ho should scarcely bo surprised if, instead of being keepers of lunatics, they would not become lunatics themselves. (Laughter.) ~ , Tho Pbjvinciax Secrktary ,_said that he could not give a definite answer to tho question. Tho resolution was carried. Resolution No. o was carriod. On tho Provincial Secretary moving to report . Moorhouse wished to ask tho hon, member if he intended waiving the indemnity contained in the next motion, until noxt Session. The Provincial Secretary, in reply, stated that the House not being in possession of the details, he should leave the motion over for the present. The Auditor had been unable to get up tho accounts in timo to be printed for the House. Tho resolutions having been reported to the House, were ad Inreply to a question from Mr. Bebwick relative to the House Committee for the recess, The Speaker said ho was happy that the subject had been brought before the House. There was a sum of money—£lso—in the hands of the Librarian, and he should wish to know whether it should be expended by the Librarian and Speaker during the recess. Mr Wilson hoped that the additional tables, foi which there was a sum of monejr upon the estimates, should be provided before next session. Mr. Clark suggested that the expenditure ot the money be left in tho hands of the Speaker. In reply to Mr. Shand The Provincial Secretary stated that the Government intended taking immediate steps towards giving all the information possible to the Commission at home upon the Lyttelton harbor works. In reply to a question from the Speaker, Mr. Hall suggested the advisability of having the journal of this session printed immediately. The minutes of the meeting having been read and The Speaker announced his Honor the Superintendent, who, on entering, read the following address: " Mr. Speaker and Gentlemen of the Provincial

Council, — . T " In bringing the present short session to a close, l have to thank you for the earnest attention you have given to the subjects which have been submitted to you. I have no doubt that the measures you have adopted will be productive of lasting benefit to the province. No time shall be lost in forwarding the preliminary operations accessary to tho efficient carrying out of the great work to which you have given your sanction. " I entirely concur in the bold and liberal policy which you have adopted in reference to the contract negotiated with Mr. Ward for the establishment of a mail service by way of Panama. With a view to giving greater effect to your decision, I have deputed a member of my Executive Council to proceed to Auckland and the intermediate provinces, in order the better to represent the views of this province on the subject. I am gratified to be able to state that since the adoption of this step I have already received from the Superintendent of Wellington the satisfactory assurance that the Government of that important province is desirous of co-operating in the measures which you have decided upon. ~ "I have assented on behalf of his Excellency the Governor to the Railway and Harbour Works Fund OrdinTienow declare this Council prorogued to the 30th day of June next." His Honor then retired, and the members dispersed.