PROVINCIAL COUNCIL.

Taranaki Herald, Volume XXII, Issue 2188, 28 March 1874, Page 2

PROVINCIAL COUNCIL.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25. The Speaker look the chair at 10 a.m., when the whole of the members were present. MESSAGES FROM TUB SUPERINTENDENT. The Speaker road two messages from his Honor the Superintendent. One requested that an additional earn of £100 should be placed upon the estimates, for the Lunatic Asylum and the Hospital. The other was a proposal, from Messrs. Webster Brothers, to provide, within six months, a suitable steam tug for tho Waitara River ; and, farther, to open np communication with Mokao aB soon as practicable, calling at Urenui and other places, when trade should require it, on condition of receiving £300 from the Government. THE WAIKATO RAILWAY. Mr. Standish moved, "That the Superintendent be requested to plaoe a sufficient sum of money on the estimates for employing a competent person or persons to explore and survoy the country lying between the Mountain Road at,d the Waikato District, with a view of ascertaining if it be practicable to carry a Hue of railway from the Monntain Road to the Waikato Distriot ; and to report to him what (if any) are the engineering difficulties in the way of this work being pnrsned, and that a copy of such report be forwarded to our members in order to supply them with sufficient data to enable them to bring the matter before the Assembly for consideration." He considered this' a most important matter. The country spoken of in his resolution was on* explored, and less was known of it than of any other part of this island, therefore it was time something was known about it. The policy of the present Government was to open up tracts of country and push railways through them — consequently it was possible to get a line through that country. The Auckland Province was in favour of it. The Provincial Council of that Province bad passed an unanimous vote in favour of it. A copy of the report, when prepared, oould be given to the Auckland members as well as to ours, and they might then get what was asked for at once ; whereas if snob steps were not taken, we might be put off for several years. Besides, in that part there might be minerals and other sources of wealth lyiug dormant. The only difficulty might be the native question, but bo had been informed that Mr. MoDonnell was at Tuhua exploring, and if that was the case, surely they ought to be able to go as far as he had proposed. The natives would never ask them to do anything ; the effort must oome from themselves. It was the oastom of the people in this Province to sit still and grumble. They had been isolated from other parts of the island, and had got into rather a slow pace, but the time bad arrived to stir themselves — tho time had arrived for action, i He thought the people had tbo same amount of stamina as when engaged in the late war. If the present favourable opportunity was neglooted, its like might never occur again. He did not believe in long correspondence, buc in something definite being dono at onoe . Mr. Ufjoiin, in seconding the motion, said while thoroughly agreeing with it, he would like to see it altered thus : " That his Honor communicate with tho Provincial Gounoil of Auckland, to see if that body would help the measure in tho Assembly." Mr. Standish thought it was too late in the season ; and there would not, consequently, be time to carry oat the honorable member's suggestion. , Mr. Elliot considered that it would be better to confer with Aaokland in the matter, as their help was worth having. The General Government had the funds ; and, if shown the advantage of opening up tho country referred to by Mr. Standish in his resolution, he thonght they woold graut it at onoe. Mr. Stub said it would be remembered that, when the Hon. Mr. McLean was here, ho had advised them not to spend money on an expedition to Tuhua, until he had ascertained the native feeling. A party starting off inland, as Mr. Standish had advised, was different from a privato one ; for, in the latter case, the responsibility, if a disturbance were created, rested with no one; while, in the former, all the odinm would be thrown upon tho Government. Mr. Andrews was favourable to cooperating with Anckland ; because the members of thai Province and this, pnt togethor, mftdo about twenty, which would have some weight in a division. Mujor Atkinson thought it would be unwise to pass the motion in its present form. He brought the matter before the House during the session of 1872. Ho found that the Auckland members were unanimous ; and a resolution was passed, to the effect that the country through Waikato should bo explored, with a view to throwing it open. But the Nativo Minister said that the matter had bettor bo left to him, and ho would get it done as soon as practicable ; so that a promise has been mailo ; and a promise, if possible, was generally fulfilled. The Council should be careful ; for, were euoh a resolution carried out, the General Government might stop it at once. Again, the expense would be £2,060 ; and it would take twelve months to accomplish the work. They ought to pause before passing a resolution which would put the Province to the expense of surveying tbo land of another Province. He would suggest the following amendmont :— " That bis Honor be requested to communicate with tho Superintendent of Auckland, with a view of oonueoting the Waikalo country with New Plymouth, by railway." — The original motion was then put and carried. PROVINCIAL SURVEYOR'S SALARY. Mr. Standish moved, "That the Superintendent bo requested to place a sum ot £50 upon the estimates, as soon as that amount was paid into the Provincial Treasury from the sale of the waste lands of the Province, to be added to the present salary of theChiof Provincial Surveyor, Mr. Humphries. — Mr. YVhitcomue seconded tho motion. — Mr. Elliot thought it had been risen £25 last year. He thought it sufficient as it stood. — Mr. Whitcombe : Mere boys who have gone out of tho place are getting their £350 a year.— Mr. Connett': This is different to them, it is per- ] mnnent. — Mr. Upjohn and Mr. Andurws spoke in favour of tho motion, and Mr. Syme and Mr. McGuire against it. — The motion was then put and carriod on division as follows : — Ayes, 10 : Major Atkinson, Messrs. ! Burton, Peaoock, Rattenbury, Standish, Wliitcombo, Callaghan, Mace, Upjohn, and ' Andrews. — Noes, 4 : Messrs. Elliot, McGuire, Conuett, and Syuie. SALE OF RUSH LAND TO TUB IRON COMPANIES. Mr. WuiTCosinn moved, "That this Council is of opinion that it is desirable that 10,000 acres of bush laud bo sold to tho representatives of the Pioneer Steel Company and the New Zealand Titanic Iron Company. In accordance with tbo resolutions of Council already passed to that effect ; and that his Honor the Superintendent bo requested to take such stops in the Assembly, and with the Ministry, as may be necessary, in order to give effect to the terms of the said resolution." The mover read the arrangoments | existing between tho Provincial Government and tho companies. A portion of land had been selected by the New Zealand Titanic Irou Company, and Mr. Kelly (agent for that company) wanted to seleot 3,000 acres more from the Moa Block. The reason why negotiation with the General Government on the subject was necessary, was that, by tho agreement, the companies were Ib bo permitted to buy the land at ss. per acre ; and it was nooosPary that the Ministry and Assembly should ratify that arrangement, in order that it might be carried. — Mr. Syme thought the Government had been very careless in dealing with Mr. Waldnck ; and at present, he believed, they were unable to say whether a guarauUo had been giveuor not. — Mr. Upjohn considered the Government had acted unwisely in extending the lease. He know that

the frew Zealand Titanic Steel Company were making great efforts to procure charcoal. — Mr. Elliot said the Governmont had done right in extonding the time of the lease of the Pioneer Company.— Mr. Callaquan thought the company's wanting to take the land was a mere speculation* It would not pay them to convey oharooal from the Moa Block. — Major Atkinson said Mr. Walduok had already paid £1,000 to the Pioneer Company ; and it was not likely that that gentleman looked upon the sum as thrown away. He thought it would be a mistake to sell them the land at once. The 10,000 aores proposed to be taken out of the 25,000 aores comprising the Moa Block, would, if dealt with as proposed in the resolution, entirely debar the Government from making roads through, and settling immigrants upon it. There should be some restrictions. He would suggest that the word 11 sold" bo struck out, and the word " lease" inserted in its place. He would deal as leniently as possible with them in that lease ; for instance, that they buy it, on condition of their settling immigrants upon it.— Mr. Upjohn supported the suggestion of striking ont the " sold," and inserting, in it« plaoe, the word " lease ;" because, if the oompany succeeded, the lease oould be cancelled, and they could be allowed to pnrohase the land.— Mr. Elliot had understood that the resolution passed by the Conooil some time ago, was to allow them to have it, if the iron sand proved' a success ; if not, to empower the Council to take it back again.— Mr. Standish thought it would be better to grant a lease with a par* i chasing olanse, when oertain restrictions could be made. — Mr. Peacock said the Moa Block appeared to be a sort of a prize ; and, as it did not oeem compulsory that that (and no other) ehonld be the land handed over, he would propose that that land be kept for settling immigrants upon ; for, if handed to companies, it might nerer be settled. — Mr. Andrews asked if there was any other available land ? — Mr. Whitcombe replied that there was a block behind Ngatimaru ; also, some 6,000 or 7,000 acres in the hands of the Provincial Government, 2,000 acres of which had already been selected by Mr. Kelly. — Mr. Buhton : When the application was made, was it promised that the land should be given out of the Moa Block P— Mr. Whitcombe : It would be a breach of faith not to let them have the Moa Block | because, although no land was specially stated, yot Mr. Chiltnan understood that it would be out of the Moa Block.— Mr. Burton : That being the case, I will second Mr. Peacock's amendment. — Mr. Standish thought it would uot be right to give them a piece of land, so situated that no roads could be constructed to it, except at a very groat cost.— Mr. Whitcombb said the companies should be dealt with liberally, as far aB possible ; for it should be remembered that a large number of men would bo required on the land to make the charcoal, &c. ; therefore, it would be to their interest to get the land settled.— Mr. McGuire thought tho land should bo taken out of that belonging to tho Province when the application was made.— Mr. Peacock's amendment was then pnt and carriod on division, as follows :— Ates, 8 : Major Atkinson, Messrs. Barton, Connett, Mace, McGuire, Peacock, Rattonbary, and Upjohn. Noes, 6 : Messrs. Andrews, Callaghan, Elliot, Standish, Syme, and Whitcombe. The original motion was therefore lost. NIGHT DUTY OF THE POLICE. Mr. Upjohn moved, " That his Honor be requested to relieve the present police force of their night duty as watchmen over private property." He did not think the town required much protection, for, on coming into the town quite early in tbo morning he found tho shatters of tho shops down, and the wares outside, as if they had been there all night. — Mr. Buuton thought the police might be thrown on the town. He had mado a calculation, and found that for the Bmall sum of half-a*crown on each house that their salary conld be raised £2-1. So small a tax, he thought, would not be objected to.— Mr. Whitcowbk explained that the police had agreed to do night duty for the oxtra £*24 already voted.— Mr. Callaghan and Mr. Elliot spoke against tho motion, ivheu Mr. Upjohn withdrew it. PATEA TOWN BOARD. Mr. McGuike moved, " That it is desirable that as soon as a petition be reooived by his Honor the Superintendent, in acoordanoo with the 2nd clauso of the " Town Board of New Plymouth Ordinance, 18/2," praying that the administration of the Town of Carlyle be managed by a Town Board, his Honor be empowered to issue a proclamation defining tho limits and boundaries of the said town in accordance with the terms of the said petition, and doclaring Carlyle a town under the provisions of the several Ordinances of this Province relating to Town Boards." Mr. Peacock seconded the motion, and it was carried. CHARITABLE AID. The Council went into Committee of Supply, and on tho item "Charitable aid, £150," being read a second time, Mr. Upjohn said a great many who were receiving aid were not entitled to it. They had relatious able to keep them ; and it was disgraceful to see how some of those relation! tried to shirk tho duty of maintaining their aged and infirm relatives. He would vow for the sum being reduced to £100. — After some discussion, tho motion -that charitable aid be reduced from £150 to £100 mmm pnt and lost on the costiug rote of (he Speaker, the votes being as follows :— Ayei, • Major Atkinton, Messrs. Burton, Elliot, MoGaire, Caltngh»n, Maoe, and Upjohn.— Nokb, 7 : Messrs. Pea* i cock, Rattenbury, Btandrab, Whitcombe, Connett, Andrews, and Syme. ALTERATION OF THE TOWN BOARD ORDINANCE. A bill to amend the " Town of New Ply- j mouth Public Works Ordinance, 1864," was read a second timo, and the Council went into Committee on the bill, Mr. Maoe in the chair. Clause 2 provides that an annual rate of not less than 3d. in the £ and not exceeding Bd. shall be imposed by the Town Board on the valne of all land within tho Town of New Plymouth. — Mr. Elliot thought the maximum rate (Bd.) was too high.— Mr. Cai.larhan thought Gd. would be high enough for the maximum rate. A rate at 3d. would bring in a reveuuc of £750, and if it*wera fixed at 6d. it would give them arevenne of £1,500. Mr. Cromptoti had told them that improvements made had toye paid for, but then it should be remembered that when improvemeuto were made in certain streois, that those streets were assessed and made to pay for them. — After a- few further remarks, Mr. Cam.aghan said that Mr. Crompton's arguments went to prove that 4d. would be sufficient, therefore if the maximum was put at Cd. a margin of 2d. would be left for contingencies. — Mr. Burton did not think it would interfere with the liberties of the people, or he would not vote for it. The bill gavo the Board power to raise money for special purposes, but not without the ooi.senc of the people, for there whs a clause which provided that no rate should be levied without notification had been given by advertisement in each paper pub- | lislied in the Town of New Plymouth fur two oonseoutive weeks. He felt assured that the Board would do nothing against tho wishes of the people, — Mr. UrJOHN considered tho ratepayers had the power entirely in their own hands, for at election timo they could say, " will you vote for suoh nud buoli a rate," and { if tho candidate said "no," why they need not vote for him — The olanso was then put na it stood, and carried on division as follows :—: — Ayes, 10 : Messrs. Burton, Peacock, Mace, Rattenbury, MoGuire, Standish, Whitcombe, Connett, Upjohn, Crompton. Noes, 4: Major Atkinson, Messrs. Elliot, Callagban, Andrews. The Council having resumed and reported the bill without amendments, it was read a third timo and passed. DOG ORDINANCE. The Speaker loft the chair, and the Council went into Committee ©a the bill to amend the

"Dog Nuisance Ordinance, 1872."— Mr. Whitcombe said it had been framed in aooordanoe with tbo lato petition, and tho cry mads by portions of the press of setting town against country was false. The Act was to enable a man having forty acres in- use to keep one serviceable dog. — Mr. Crompton said it was the opinion outside that a person having a farm under cultivation but not living on it oonld not keep a dog.— Mr. Whitcombe replied that anyone having a farm of forty acres, providing he used such land, could have a dog. — After a few similar remarks from the other members, the Council resumed, and the bill was reported without amendments, read a third time and passed. COMMITTEE OF SUPPLT. ' The Counoil again went into Committee of Supply, and proceeded to inquire into' and pass the estimates — Taranaki Northern Agricultural Society, £20; carried. Print* ing and stationery, £280. — Mr. Syme would like to know how much had been spent in printing. — Mr. Whitcombe said that printing and advertising had cost £200. — Mr. Syme : What did last year's oost P— Mr. Whitcombe : Exactly the same as this year— £2oo.— After a few farther remarks, the item was passed. Librarian of Institute, £25 j Board of Hospital and Lunatic Asylnm, £400. — Mr. Crompton thought this shonld be divided into two parts. Last year a sum had been voted, but the asylom had sinoe been built, and, as yet, no addition had been mado to the estimates. It would be better to have £200 for the hospital aud £260 for the lunatic asylum. Mr. Hill mast have some one to help him in looking after the patients in the latter establishment. That sum would be in caso Mr. Hill wanted an assistant. Thb Hospital Board were in debt owing to patients going in who could not pay tho two shillings per day. One man had handed over hit sixty acres of land ; and there were two others who had handed ovor their Borip, but its value could not be realised. The £50 asked for the hospital would, therefore, be security until the money oonld be paid.— Mr. Whitcombe : Then you are now speaking to his Honor's letter aßktng for £100. — Mr. CROMrxoN : Yes. — Mr. Whitcombe had no objection to voting the sum, but this waß the only plaoe in the Colonies where the hospital was paid for out of the revenue. There waa very little given to charitable institutions—* the Good Templars were an exception. He thought one Sunday's collection in the year should be given to the hospital. ' The clergy should be the last to oppose such a move* mont. He trusted something would shortly be done, so that New Plymouth would not be left behind every other town in this matter. — Mr. Crompton said the- Good Templars deserved every credit for the way in which they had helped one of their number who had met with a serions accident a Bhort time ago. He further stated that there were some people who always assisted, while others never contributed a penny. — After a few remarks from Mr. Whitcombe, Mr. Burton said he did not think the matter had ever been brought before the public. He had spoken to a Weß» loyau minister on the snbjeot, and he stated that it had never been mentioned to him.— —Mr. Standish said one of the clergy paid £50 out of his own pocket to support another minister.— Mr. Upjohn made some lengthy remarks advocating that the hospital should be kept by subscription. He had been told there were some in the hospital who were well, but when they came to consider that Mr. Hill had thirteen patients to look after they wonld agree with him in thinking that he wanted additional help, and that was how those who were spokea of as being well were employed. — The motion was then put — Hospital, £200 ; lunatio asylum, £200. — Mr. Crompton then asked that a farther sum of £50 be added to the estimates for the lunatio asylum, and, after a few remarks, it was carried.—^Chairman of the Board of Relief, £25. — Major Atkinson thought the management of this sum could be done for nothing by the Superintendent, or by the Hospital Board. — Mr. Whitcombe stated that a great part of the chairman's time was taken up either by persons askiog for relief, or by in* furiated parties who had found themselves struck off. — Mr. Standish spoke in favour of the chairman's services being retained, but would advocate striking off £5. — Mr. Uwohn thought £10 enough for spending £150. — Mr. McGuire spoke against any salary whatever for this office. — It was then put whether the chairman should be allowed. £10 or nothing.— The votes were as follows : — Ayes, 8 : Major Atkinson, Burton, Peacook, Mo(juire, Callaghan, Maoe, Upjohn, - and Andrews. Noks, 4 ; Messrs. Rattenbury, SLandish, Whitcombo, and Connett. Inauguration of railway, £125. — Mr. Whitcombb explained the circumstances oonneotod with this work. It was opposed and the amonnt ou division waß struck out. — Ayes 3 : Messrs. Whitcombe, Syme, and Crompton. — Noes, 11 : Major Atkinson, Messrs. Burton, Peacock, Rattonbury, MoGuire, Standish, Callaghan, Maoe, Connett, Upjohn, and Andrewß.— Interest on mortgage, Waitara Bridge. £207. Owners 'Go-ahead,' £50. — Mr. Whitcombb explained that thil sum was for the steamer goiug out iv search of a boat that had been blown oat to sea with four men on board.— Agreed io.— Advances— Vivian's guarantee, £250. On this amount a long discussion took place. Evoutaally progress was reported, and the Council relumed. The Counoil then adjourned till Thursday, at 1 o'olook. THURSDAY, MARCH 26. The Council met at 2 p.m., when tho whole of tho members were present. THE SUPERINTENDENT IN CONSULTATION WITH THE COUNCIL. His Honor F. A. Carrinoton attended the Council Chamber during the early part of the afternoon and presented the following petition from Mrs. W. C. King, through her solicitor Mr. G. D. Hammortou, asking leave to reclaim part of the Huatoki River. His Honor stated that he was strongly in favour of acceding to the request, and hoped the Counoil would be so too. The next matter was the erection of bridges at Manutahi. Two persons in that district wanted a bridge for several years. He referred to Messrs. George Hall and Neil. Another bridge was needed near the township, to join it with the Lepper Road. He thought a foot or horse bridge would do for Mr. Hall for the present, but it was as well to consider whether a cart or horse bridge should be constructed at the township. To put a cart bridge there wonld cost £500, of which tho General Government were willing to give £300, so he would leave the matter in their hands. He also wished the advice of ' the Connoil concerning some waste lands in the llua and Waiwakaiha block. There were twenty-six seotions containing sixty acres each, tho proceeds of whioh it was proposed, to expend on the roads and bridges of the district. If be had sold the land under the present arrangements, the proceeds would be taken from the £2,200 granted aa a laud fund. An Aot of Assembly was needed to empower him to .devote the proceeds of the seotions to the desired use. He wanted the advice of the Council with respeot to the bridgrs. He wanted to bnild the bridge costing £300. Ho wna willing to borrow the money for this work on bis own security, if the Council would indemnify him. Major Atkinson suggested the following plan as being simpler, namely, " That his Honor should get them proclaimed reserves by the Governor and then they oould be Bold for the beaefit of the Province. He referred his Honor to the regulations for the sale and disposal of tho waste lands of the Crown within the Province of New Plymouth, clause 7, whioh reads thus — " Other public reserves and also sites will bo appointed by the Governor, being first recommended by the Srpsriutendent and the Provincial Counoil." His Honor then proceeded. The next thing was, making Fatca a port of entry. Well, he had

been to a good deal of trouble ; hod written to the Government, and had gob a reply from the Hon. Mr. Reynolds. He (his Honor) had written, upon the 30th July, requesting him to call at Patea and see for himself ; to which the hot), gentleman bad replied that he would oome down as soon as possible. Mr. McGuire would like to have something more definite than a mere verbal promise. Duty paid goods were bronght to the place, which, if lost on their way, the duty conld not be recovered. They were entitled to a port of entry as much as a good many other places. Hts Honob stated that he had seen. Mr. Seed, when hero a few days previous, who had told him that Mr. Reynolds would soon be down. With regard to Messrs. Atkinson and Silcook's license memorial, he would say that if one party paid quarterly, tbe others ought to be allowed to do the same. It bad, on one occasion, been reported to him that the scab was on the borders of the Province. Ho received a letter from Mr. Williams, of Patea, informing him of tho fact, and Celling him that he (Mr. Williams) knew all about sheep ; offering, at the samo time, to act as inspector for nothing. He (the Saperintscdent) at once sent a telegram, tolling him to do all in his power to keep the scab oat of the Province. He also forwarded a letter, in. forming that gentleman that he wotrid have his namo gazetted as Shoop Inspector for Patea. He would like the Council to vote a small sum. Mr. Elliot thought that, as Mr. Williams bad said be wo«ld do it for nothing, ho was entitled to no pay. Mr. Connbtt said that, if the Govoromont were to pay every one who offered to do work for nothing, they wonld noon have to pay plenty of money away. Mr. Peacock and also Mr. McGuiue thought Mr. Williams should receive some remunoration for what he had done. Major Atkinson had been informed that Mr. Williams was not competent. His Honor aaid he felt perfectly justified in what he had done. He had acted as emergency required, and would do so again on any similar oocaßion.— The next thing touched upon by hia Honor was the resolution of the l£th instant, which requested him to furnish the Council with the amount due by the Genogkl Government to- the Provincial Government. When in Wellington he had consulted with one of the most able men in the Honse. They went thoroughly into the matter, and that gentleman had advised him to j^ttare a creditor and debtor account, and tqj^^Hp for « Committee early — success wotrrcTWoa be certain. This he intended to do. Then there was a resolution of the same date, requesting that Mr. Holloway be invited to visit the Province. He tbongbt it a most delicate thing LoSnviteTa guest of Mr. Hoiloway'B description, and, before doing so, be would like to Bee how he oonld be entertained. The estimates whiob be bad most carefully considered before submitting them to the Council, had been out down, bo that there was Bothing to work upon in that direction. Concerning the £5,000, some would be required for the road which ran through the town. Mr. STANtHSH asked if it had not been originally given for opening op roads and building bridges ? His Honor : It was voted for the constraot!on of works generally, Mr. Standisu : Can any of this biub be spent in the town ? His Honor ; Tht* Council can allow it if they think fit. Mr. Whitcombe wonld suggest that £300 . be spent on the town bridge, and that it be taVen into consideration ou a future occasion. Agreed to. His Honor then retired .from the Oounoil Chamber. BUSH LAND 108 THE IRON BAND COMPANY. The Speaker read lelterr from Messrs. Chilman and Kelly, who bad become ao« qnainted with the decision of the Council exolnding them from the Moa block, and offering to make some proposals to the Government regarding tbe same. APPLICATION TO* A BONUS JOB BRICK MAKING. Message No. 8 was read, being applications from W. |Wilsbire and J. Black and H. McLean for the bonus for making bricks. Message: No. 9 was asking leave to appropriate tbe public money for 1874. UNAUTHORISED EXPENDtTUBR. Mr. Wujtcombb moved, •• That his Honor be requested to recommend to this Council a grant of £70 15s. Bd. to meet tho amount of unauthorised expenditnre (or the year 1873." Agreed to. OMB TOLL A DAT. Mr. Elliot moved, "That, in the opinion of this Council, parties passing tho toll-gates should not be called upon to pay more than once in the same day ; provided that it is the same team or horse he nsed • to oommence on tho Ist January, 1875." — Agreed to. REPEAL OF THE THISTLE ORDINANCE. Mr. Peacock moved, " That his Honor the Superintendent be requested to Send down njrfWi\ to repeal the Thistle Ordinance of 1873." Ho said it had been in force for several years, but had done no good. — After some discussion, the motion was agreed to. FENCING ORDINANCE Mr. Peacock moved, " That the Superintendent be requested to sond down a bill amending' the present Fonoing Ordinance" — Mr. McGuisb seconded the resolution. — Mr. Whitcombe pointed oat that tho Government had already pledged itself to bring down a bill, to that effect, next session. — Motion withdrawn. REWARD FOB A OOLD FIKLD. Mr. Connktt moved, " That it is desirable tho sum of £ 1,000 should be offered as a reward for (he discovery of a gold-field in this Province, to be paid on oondition that duty is paid in this Province on 12,000 ounces. — Mr. Upjohn seconded the motion, which was carried. A TUG TOU TUB WAITARA RIVBB. Messrs. Webster Brothers' proposal to place a tug on the Waitara River, for a subsidy, was then taken into consideration. — Mr. Symb Baid it was from no opposition to the harbour that he took notion in this matter ; for no one Could wish to sea a barbonr made more than he ; but it was time sompthing was done to got rid of the seriooß isolation entailed upon them by the native difficulty. lie need scarcely point oat the capabilities of the Waitara River for improvement ; ns, for n small town, it could be made bne of the best places of ontry in the Province. Carriago by water they all knew to be the cheapest carriage . He wonld point oat that there would be very little commerce at the Waitara — a state of things which they wonld all feel — unlesn steps were taken i» this matter. Large sums were being spent in opening up a road at the back of the mountain, in order that cattle might be driven through from Wnnpanni ami other places, for shipment at the Waitara ; bnt, unless something were provided that they might be shipped at all times, no trade would spring up ; and thns a splendid opportnnity of extending trade wonld be impeded. He won Idalso point out that it was impossible for a ship to take in a fall cargo find to get over iho bar. He advocated a tug, because vessels could lie outside and be loaded by it ; if this were provided, there would be a difference of 6s. per ton on all that entered the Waitara ; and he looked upon that ss. as a tax, which wonld bo willingly got rid of — carry out what he proposed, aud that would bo accomplished. Then, again, should a trtdo spring up at the Waitara, it would find employment for the railway which was to run between New Plymonth and that port in thirteen months' time. In fact, if they consulted the interests of the Province, at.. large, they wonld support the measure. ' It would be rednoing the responsibility on the railway by fostering a trade at tbat port ; and would also raise the price of Government sections in that locality. The tug was to be of twenty horse-power, and her tonnage twenty, whiob wonld be suitable to

carry on tbe trade of Waitara- for years to come. It wonld always be. ready for use ; and Messrs. Webster Brothers had also promised to open up a trade with Mokau. The benefits to be derived from thus being brought into communication with natives who had been hostile for so long a time, would be innumerable. If, then, it wonld be a benefit to the Province, it was only fair that the whole of tho Province should pay for it. The Connoil should be prepared to make a sacrifice when the benefit of tbe community was the object. He had waited upon Messrs. Webster Brothers, and asked them to consider tho state of the financos ; and they authorised him to inform the Council of their willingness to reduce the subsidy from £300 per annum to £300 for the first year, £200 for the second, and £150 for the third. He hoped tho Counoil would accede to their request. Mr. Andrews Beoonded the motion, but wonld not have supported the measure if no reductions in the subsidy had been, made, because ho considered such things answerod better when undertaken by private enterpriso. He considered that it would opon up a trade for the railway because all goods would then be landed on the wharf, and brought to town by tbe railway. Again, look bow tbo trado had \ increased since tbe ' Go-ahead* ' had beon rnnning. He was told there were eotno five hundred bead of cattle coming up from Wanganui to be shipped at tbe- Waitara. Messrs. Webster Brothers had told him tbat they would not be able to do all the trade as they, were situated at present, but that a tug wonjd help them out of the difficulty. He considered, to uso the words of Mr. Syme, that thoy wore throwing away advantages which* nature had givon them, for only a short time ago the brig * Drover,' drawing ton feot, entered the Waitara ; and the captain of the barqne ' Malay,' when there, said ho could bring his vessel in without fear or risk. Thoy would only have £200 to pay for the present year because four months would have run before they started. He thonght the dnes whioh wonld be received by Govornmont would repay the outlay. Mr. EtiUOT supported tbe motion. Mr. McGuire did not think it fair to spend bo mncb money at one end of tho Province, while tho other end might receive no bonefit. He would propose an amendmont to the following effect :— " That a Select Committee consisting of Major Atkinson, Messrs. Andrews, Peacock, Syme, and the mover bo I appointed to enquire into the matter, and to i report to the Couucil on Monday next ; suoh Committee to have power to oall for persons and papers." — Mr. Whitcombe seconded the motion. He thought the finanoial state of the Province would not allow it.— Mr. Upjohn did not thiuk it would be an improvement on the cargo boats.— Mr. Cahaohan was not opposed to the subsidy if he could see where ie was to oome from. — Mr. McGinrb's amendment was then put and carried, Tbe Connoil then adjourned, FRIDAY, MARCH 27. The Speaker took the chair at 10 o'clock. All the members present. IRON SAND LEASES. The Speakeb read a letter from Dr. FeatherB ton, theAuent-Geoeral in England, cnolosiug correspondence from Mr. Waldnok relative to the leases of the iron saud. PETITION THAT PATBA TOWN BOARD SPEND ITS RATK3. Mr.^McGutßß presented a petition signed by thirty.seven householders in tbe Patea District, asking that tbe power of spending the rates be taken from the hands of the road board and placed in the handß of a Town Board. He said tbe present system was a \ most unsatisfactory one, as many improvements whioh ought to be made were neglected. He would move tbat it be an order of the day for next sitting.— Carried. RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURE O? THE PROVINCE. Mr. McGinn* moved, " Thac his Honor the Superintendent be requested to furnish the Counoil with a return of tbe nett receipts of the Provinco from all sources for the year 1873, also a detail statement of how tho money ha"B been expended. — Mr. .WuiTCOSitf c explained that a Oazette was published every quarter and a copy sent to, Patea.— Mr. Peacock had never seen more than one or two. — Mr. Whitcombk aaid he could not aooonnt for that, for he knew that thoy had been regularly posted.— Motion put and carried. PROVINCIAL RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURE AT PATEA. Mr. McGuire moved, "That hie Honor be requested to furnish the Council with a return of the receipts and expenditure of tho Provincial Government for the Patea District for the year 1873, also tbe nett amount received into the Provincial Treasury for capitation grant from the General Government for the said district during tho same period. Ho : had moved a similar resolution some time i ago, bat the statement he-hod received -was for several years back. He wanted the Te« turni for 1873 ' aloue.— slr.~ WiUTcoitm? } seconded the resolution 1 -and said the hon. member should not complain because he got more than he asked for. Mr, McGuiitE:— The return. l received showed the money spont by the General Government, and not by the Provincial Government. — Mr. Whitcombe said he had shown the amount of money spent by both Governments.— Motion put and carried. * , • ', REDUCTION O? THE SHEEP TAX. Mr. Pracock moved, «' That the Superin. tendent bo requested to reduce the sheqp tax from ono, penny to a half- penny." He said there were 49,000 sheep in the and a tax of one half-penny would bring in £100 per^ annum. The inspector had to be paid entirely by the sheep owners, notwithstanding he had beon appointed Cattle Inspector. He thought tbe remainder of the salary— £so — should be paid by those owning cattle. — Mr. Elliot seoonded it. Ho did not think the whole of tho salary of the inspector should como out of the sheep rate. Ho would auk Mr. Whitcombe what nas the number of cattle in tho Province ?— Mr. Whitcomde staled ho had not the compiliug of the ennsna. It was | done iv Wellington • so he did not know. — Mr. Andrews inquired if it would be legal to { lake Iho tax oflTnheep, andpnt it on oattle ?— ' Mr. Whitcombb thought not, unless a special i onaotment was pasnod ; bnt a r«to could bo j levied on all cattle brands.- Mr. Andrews ! would propose, "That the rate ba throo j farthings."— Mr. Upjoim seconded, and said \ that, when the Act was brought in, it wni in- I fended specially. Tho people had not asked for an inspector, and might object.— Mr. McGuire was in favour of the bill as it stood. —Mr. Connktt understood that tho rate leviod ! ou sheep was beoause scab waa amongst them, and they therefore wanted looking after.— Mr. Standisii thought a vorv small snm wonld be j realised from brands. He would support the amendment. — Mr. Burton would support tho amendment. — Major Atkinson thought the matterof branding should be entirely optional, and wonld suggest that 2s. 6d. be charged on every brand taken out, and 2s. 6d. yearly ; that, of course, would include the Bheep brand, but tho ear mark chonld be an exception. He agreed wilh Mr. Whitonmho that all brands, after n certain dato, should bo paid for ; also that tho right of thoso at preornt on the books, whose yearly payments had not been kept up, should be sold to some ono eIBO. — After some further discussion, the amendment, that the sbeoo tax be reduced from one penny to three farthings, was carriod. HXING THE WIDTH OF THE HUATOKI IN DEVON STREET. Mr. Cai.laghan moved, "That in the opinion of this Council it is desirable that the cession of land applied for by Mrs. William King, on the Huatoki River, be granted in aooordnnoo with the terras of her application to his Honor the Superintendent, dated the 21st March, 1874. Ho thought tho granting of this cession would be the means of improving

the town. — Mr. Upjohn soconded the motion. — Mr. Standisu suggested that 'tho resolution should also ask Ih'b Honor to tako the necessary steps to give legal effect to the resolution. — Motion agreed to. THE £5,000 Fete ROADS AN» BRIDGES. Mr. Upjoun moved, lC Th.at-a select Committee be appointed to lay before the' -Council a plan for spending -the .£5,000 voted by tho Assembly for roads and bridges' in tins Provinco, to consist of Messrs. Atkinson, Burton, MoGuire, Syme, and mover, with powor to oall for persons and papors, and to report on Monday next." — Mr. Skmb seconded tho resolution. .Aftei some discussion the resolution was carried, the name of Mr. Connett being substituted for Mr. Barton PETITION FOB GRANT OP LAND. Major Atkinson presented a ■petition from James Watherford, a discharged soldier, asking for a grant of land. MESSRS. ATKINSON AND SUXOCK'S AUCTIONEERS MCBNSE. A memorial from Messrs. Atkinson and Silcock asking that a drawback of £7 10s. more be made, was agreed to. NEW HOAD AT THE WAITARA. The consideration of the petition from certain Waitara settlors was next gone into ; in which complaints wore made of thore being no direct road from Devon lload to tho bridge, and asking for a sum of money to make it. — Mr. Connett said the members wonld seethe necessity of this work being done. It wonld not cost £150, which conld be taken out of the £5,00 D. It should have been done long ago. — Mr. Callaouan asked if the road would go through any private land which wonld have to be bought.— Mr. Connett suggested that if it did so, the land should be bought.— It was then agreed that tbo matter should be referred to tho Committee on tho sponding of the £5,000 for roads and bridgos. APPLICATION FOB BUSH LAND BY THE IRON : SAND COMPANIES. An application was made by the representatives of the Pidneer Stool Company and the New Zealand Titanio Steel and Iron Company to the.Cpancil to be heard with reference to cor tain new conditions, which itappeared to those persons wero sought to bs imposed by resolution of Council with respect to tho selection of Gve thousand acres of land by the compauies, when tho furnace and plant was erected here. Loavo having been given, Mr. Chilman appeared on behalf of the Pioneer Company, and Mr. T. Kelly on behalf of the New Zealand Titanio Steel and Iron Company. Mr. Chilman, having boen called by the Speaker, made a long explanation of the meaning attached by him and his principals to the resolution approving of a grant of land paasod by the Council in July, 1873^which was that, on certain conditions being fulfilled, the absolute purchase of the fivo thousand acres would be allowed. The resolution vow passed reßtrioted the selection of land, and imposed conditions as regards settlement, which was an obvious departure from the original agreement. — A desultory conversation then took place, and ultimately Mr. Kelly was called on to address the Connoil. — Mr. Kelly .said that all he wished was that the resolutions of July, 1873, should be carried out in their integrity. The^, company which he represented Were fulfilling tho condition agreed on, viz., that, on building a furnace and erecting plant, tho Company should bo entitled to bay five thousand aores, at five' shillings per acre, and the money derived from the sale to be expended in forming a tramway or road to the land. He argued tbat the oontract with the Connoil and tho Government, entered ;nto by the Company, could not be altered without the consent to the Company, aud, if altered, would be a breaoh of faith,, which he was sure the Council never contemplated. As regarded the wording of the new resolution, tho only part he objected to was being excluded from the Moa block— if this was not altered it would simply amount to depriving tho Company of tho right of selecting tbe only land snitable for carrying on the important works whioh wero now m'oonrse of conßtrnction . He did not wish for a first soh*ot.ian, bnt was willing. to. let the Government select a 'block for special settlement, nnd then to select afterwards. He reminded the.Counoi) that a speoinl settlement oonld 'not be> formed-suc-cessfully in' Chat block without a speoial industry to' support it; and nothing was so likely to aid it obl the success of the iron works companies. They had been tho means already of introducing families ; and if tho s'molting was a success it would be tho means of, directly and indirectly, aiding in the support of fivo hnndred persons. — After a short disoussion, notice waa given by M>*. Whitcombo to rcsoind tho resolution objected to with tho view of substituting a new one. The Counoil then adjourned until Wednesday next, at 10 a.m.