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1876. NEW ZEALAND.
IMMIGRATION TO NEW ZEALAND. (LETTERS TO THE AGENT-GENERAL TRANSMITTING REPORTS UPON IMMIGRANT SHIPS.)
Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of Sis Excellency.
No. 1. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. {No. 153.) Sir,— Immigration Office, Wellington, 24th June, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship "Earl of Zetland," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 3rd. June instant : —l. Immigration Commissioner's report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 1. Commissioners' Eeport on Ship " Earl of Zetland." Sib, — Port Chalmers. sth June, 1875. The ship " Earl of Zetland," with Government immigrants, arrived in port from London on the 3rd inst.,her passage from Gravesend having occupied 78 days. Total souls embarked, 330; total souls landed, 334, equal to 27G adults. There were seven births and three deaths on the passage, the latter being a child one year old, who died of consumption, and infant twins who were prematurely born. No disease of an infectious or a contagious nature occurred on the voyage. The whole of the immigrants arrived in port in the enjoyment of excellent health, under the charge of Dr. Cunningham, surgeon-superintendent. On inspecting the ship we found the several compartments exceedingly well fitted on the block system, and very clean and comfortable. The ventilation by side scuttles and air shafts through the deck was good throughout. The cooking-range was amply sufficient for its requirements, and the condenser (Graveley's) supplied abundance of good water both for cooking and washing purposes. The immigrants, without a single dissentient, expressed themselves as fully satisfied with their treatment and with the conduct of the captain, surgeonsuperintendent, and officers of the ship towards them on the voyage. A young immigrant, named H H , showed signs of insanity on the 18th April, and being very violent, two attendants were appointed by the surgeon to watch him both day and night. On the arrival of the ship in port he showed evident signs of improvement, and since his removal to the depot is rapidly recovering. We have, &c, Colin Allan. John Drysdale, M.D. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. Wit. Thomson.
No. 2. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 158.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 28th June, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Dunedin," which arrived at Auckland upon the 18th May ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. Note. —The reports of the Burgeon-superintendents, the Immigration Officers' reports, and other documents of a technical character appended to the Commissioners' reports, it has not bcon thought necessary to print. I—D. 3.
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I would direct your attention to the two cases of consumption amongst the immigrants which are the subject of remark by the Commissioners and the surgeon-superintendent, with respect to the desirability of a more searching medical examination than would appear to have taken place in these instances. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 2. Commissionees' Eepoet on Ship " Dunedin." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 25th May, 1875. "We have the honor to report the arrival on the 18th instant of the " Dunedin," ninety-three days from London, bringing 209 Government immigrants, equal to 178 statute adults. Three births and three deaths occurred upon the voyage. The deaths comprise two infants of diarrhoea and convulsions, and one male adult, a married man twenty-four years of age without family, of typhoid fever. Three cases of typhoid occurred during the voyage. No case of infectious disease has been reported by the surgeon-superintendent. Two cases of consumption more or less developed were noted by the Health Officer: N It , twenty-two years of age, a married man without family, apparently in an advanced stage of the disease, and A T , eight years of age. The surgeon-superintendent states with respect to these cases that, according to his instructions, his examination of the immigrants at the time of embarkation had reference chiefly to the detection of infectious disease, and that he did not conduct such an examination as would enable a medical man to discover consumption except in very marked cases. The immigrants expressed individually entire satisfaction with the treatment they received during the voyage. Though no formal complaint was made upon the subject, it was generally understood that the quality of the bread made on board for the use of the passengers was very inferior, owing to the want of skill on the part of the baker; also the preparation of food generally was imperfectly carried out by the person employed for that duty. The captain and surgeon-superintendent state that no one could be found among the immigrants qualified to supersede either the baker or cook with any prospect of improvement, and that in consequence no change was attempted in either instance. As the failure to make good bread on board ship is usually attributed to the defective quality of the yeast in hot latitudes, it is suggested that this difficulty might in part be overcome by providing a few casks of flour prepared with baking powder to be made use of within the tropics. The provisions of all kinds on board the " Dunedin," as also the supply of fresh water, were everything that could be desired. The supply of medical comforts was abundant, and their quality unexceptionable. The usual issue was made regularly of preserved onions and carrots during tho voyage. The ship's passenger accommodation is above the average. Every attention appears to have been paid to cleanliness and ventilation ; and altogether the condition of the respective compartments, as well as of the ship throughout on her arrival in port, is such as to reflect the highest credit on every one concerned. The immigrants by this vessel present a very favourable appearance, and their conduct on the voyage is spoken of in terms of commendation both by the ship's officers and the surgeon-superin-tendent. "We beg to recommend payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent, and to the master, mate, and purser. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Buegess.
No. 3. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 167.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellingtou, 16th July, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Timaru," which arrived at the Bluff upon the 20th April ultimo: —1. Report of Immigration Commissioners at the Bluff. 2. Eeport of Immigration Commissioners at Port Chalmers. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. The transmission of these documents has been delayed waiting for the receipt of the report of the Invercargill Commissioners, which has only just reached me. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure 1 in No. 3. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship "Timaru" (Bluff). Sic, — Invercargill, 24th April, 1875. We have the honor to report that the ship " Timaru " from Glasgow, with Government immigrants, arrived at tho Bluff on the 20th April. On visiting the ship we found that scarlatina had broken out on the passage among the emigrants, tho last case occurring three weeks before arrival. The Health Officer resolved that the ship bo in the
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meantime placed in quarantine. On tho 22nd April, it was resolved that the ship be thoroughly fumigated in every compartment, the clothes of the persons infected on the passage be destroyed, and, should no new case break out in the meantime, pratique should be granted to the ship on the 24th April. On the 24th April, evidence having been adduced that the instructions of the Health Officer had been carried out, the ship was accordingly admitted to pratique this day. The immigrants who arrived by this ship numbered 20S souls, equal to 177 statute adults. There were landed at the Bluff 86 souls, equal to 77 statute adults, the remaining portion having proceeded in the ship to Port Chalmers. One birth and six deaths occurred on the passage, three of the latter being from scarlatina. Having inspected the ship, wo found her well fitted and admirably ventilated by side scuttles, and the compartments very clean. The immigrants were well satisfied with the treatment they received on the voyage. The provisions were good, and the condenser provided abundance of good water for all purposes. We are satisfied that the provisions of the Passengers Act were fully complied with, and that Captain Rankin, Dr. de Latour, and the officers of the ship performed their respective duties most satisfactorily. We have, &c, AValtee H. Peabson. Wjt. P. Gbigob. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. Thos. Thomson.
Enclosure 2 in No. 3. Cohmissionees' Repoet on Ship "Timaru," (Port Chalmers.) Sic,— Port Chalmers, Bth May, 1875. "We have the honor to report that the ship " Timaru " arrived in port from Glasgow on the 6th instant, having called at the Bluff to land salmon ova and a portion of her immigrants. As the ship was inspected by the Immigration Commissioners at the Bluff —who will furnish a report—it will not be necessary for us to enter into details. On our arrival at the ship we ascertained that no case of fever or any other sickness occurred on the passage from the Bluff, where, after undergoing quarantine for four days on account of scarlatina having broken out on the voyage, she was admitted to pratique on the 24th April, and that all the immigrants then on board were in good health. The ship was cleared, and the immigrants removed to Caversham. Of her immigrants, there were landed at the Bluff 86 souls, equal to 77 adults ; and in Dunedin 121 souls, equal to 100 adults. The immigrants, from their appearance, appear to be very suitable for the present requirements of the province. We have, &c, Colin Allan. Vm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. • John Detsdale, M.D.
No. 4. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 168.) Sic, — Immigration Office, AVellington, 17th July, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Hannibal," which arrived at Nelson upon the 10th July instant: —l. Eeport of Immigration Commissioners of the result of an inquiry held by them into reported breach of the regulations by certain officers of the ship. 2. The Commissioners' usual report upon the inspection of the ship. 3. Certified list of births aud deaths. I have to direct your attention to the remarks of the Commissioners with reference to the incapacity of the person appointed as baker, the quality of the flour, and the manner in which the biscuit was packed. You will observe that complaints of this character have been made with regard to several ships lately by Immigration Commissioners. lam sure you will agree with me that, in a matter so seriously affecting the health and comfort of the emigrants as the preparation of the bread, every care shouldbe taken that flour of good quality is placed on board, and that the person appointed to act as baker understands the business. In referring this matter to Mr. Smith, your Despatching Officer, il; will be right to inform him that I personally had the opportunity of testing the quality of the condensed flour of the " Hannibal," and have no doubt as to its being of inferior quality and exceedingly unpleasant taste, and that the biscuit, from being packed in bags, was simply uneatable, having, as must necessarily be the case under such circumstances, absorbed every noxious vapour of the 'tween-decks and hold. I trust that proper arrangements may in future be made to prevent the recurrence of such well-grounded causes of complaint. I have to express my sense of the zeal and ability displayed by Dr. Russell, and I desire that he should receive charge of another ship as soon as possible, should he make application for re-employ-ment. I have, &c., The Agent-G-eneral for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 4. Comhissionees' Repobt on Ship "Hannibal." The " Hannibal " arrived in Nelson on the 10th instant with 205 immigrants, equal to 183 J statute adults, after a passage of 88 days. Although scarlatina was carried on board from the depot at
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Blackwall, and several cases of gastric fever occurred during the voyage, there was only one death from sickness—a child one year old; a second death occurred through a lad being washed overboard. The immigrants landed in better health than from any previous vessel to this port, which may be attributed to three causes—an improved dietary, the superior accommodation of the ship, and unceasing attention to the health and comfort of the immigrants by the surgeon-superintendent, Dr. Russell, already favourably known to Government as surgeon of the " La Hogue " to Wellington. The " Hannibal" was the first vessel that arrived in Nelson with the improved dietary, and a superficial observer could not fail to notice its effect upon the immigrants as seen when landed. Under less favourable circumstances as regards diet, ship accommodation, and, we may add, medical charge, these people would probably have landed in a far less satisfactory state. Especial care appeared to have been taken with the fittings of the vessel, and a wise forethought exercised to insure the health and comfort of all on board. The immigrants were doubtless fortunate in having the services of an experienced medical officer, and one whose high sense of duty caused him to be unsparing of himself in attending upon those who needed his assistance. The report of Dr. Bussell will be found more full than such documents usually are, and to contain some practical suggestions which Government may regard as worthy of consideration. It also contains complaints of the quality of the bread and biscuit supplied in the early part of the voyage, of an insufficient supply of fresh water when in the tropics, and of some breaches of the regulations on the part of Captain Brown and his officers in their conduct towards the single women. These complaints led the Commissioners to institute an inquiry, the evidence taken at which is already in the hands of the Hon. Minister for Immigration. Taking the subjects of complaint as there given, we remark upon them as follows :—■ The bread was admitted by Captain Brown to have justified the complaints made of it, but the fault lay with the baker rather than with the flour, which, however, was not of prime quality. When a more competent baker was employed, taken from among the immigrants, wholesome bread was provided. This shows the necessity of ascertaining whether the baker placed on board an emigrant vessel is master of his business before the vessel sails, as unwholesome bread is a most fruitful source of disease. The fault with the biscuit was that it had been put on board in bags, as the supplies subsequently taken from an iron tank were fairly good. Samples of the flour aud the condemned biscuit are forwarded for inspection. The short supply of water appears to have arisen out of misapprehension on the part of the captain of the quautity required, and was remedied when complained of, as were also the complaints respecting the bread as soon as a competent baker was found. The issue of bad biscuit was also promptly discontinued. The whole of the immigrants bore willing testimony to the general good treatment they received on board the " Hannibal," many of them volunteering the remark that it was far better than they had expected. Dr. Eussell's statement, that bottled stout had been supplied to the immigrants, required a strict investigation. On inquiry, all we could learn was that a few bottles had been disposed of by the steward, but it could not be shown that this was done with the consent of the captain, who denied all knowledge of the transaction. Dr. Eussell did not see or hear of any of tho immigrants being affected with liquor. The gift by Captain Brown, on two occasions, of a small quantity of brandy to a single woman, was also a violation of regulation, as likewise was the officers conversing with the single women when on the poop on duty. But as these breaches of regulations were not followed by questionable conduct on the part of the offenders, we recommended the payment of the gratuities, and considered a reproof and caution to Captain Brown, whose first voyage it was with immigrants, would be sufficient. There appeared to have been great delay in despatching the "Hannibal" to sea: the immigrants complained of having been summoned to the port of embarkation three weeks before the ship was ready. This may have been unavoidable in the present instance, but such delays should be prevented, if possible. . We cannot express too highly our opinion of the services of Dr. Eussell, and, should he desire further employment, Government will find no officer who will more conscientiously perform his duty. We have, &c, Leonard Boob. James S. Cboss. His Honor the Superintendent, Nelson. C. Elliott. No. 5.
The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 174.) Sib,— Immigration Office, Wellington, 29th July, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Forf arshire," which arrived at Auckland upon the 7th instant: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Eeport on the voyage by the surgeon-superintendent. 4. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 5. Commissioners' Eepobt on Ship " Forfarshire." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 15th July, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the " Forfarshire," late on the 7th instant, 109 days from London, with 231 Government immigrants. The usual inspection of the ship and passen-
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gers took place on the forenoon of the following day, when it was ascertained that the health of the immigrants had been good throughout the voyage. No infectious disease was reported. The deaths from all causes were five, including one male adult, a married man thirty-five years of age, of consumption, and four children of from six months to two years of age, chiefly of teething and convulsions. There were four births. The immigrants expressed themselves well satisfied with the treatment they had received, and the captain and surgeon-superintendent spoke favourably of the passengers' conduct as a body. The provisions of all kinds were abundant, and of the best quality, with the exception of the article of flour, a portion of which was only second-class. There was a sufficient supply of good fresh water. The ship's steerage accommodation is somewhat indifferent; the single women's and married people's compartments being especially cramped and ill lighted. It speaks well for the cleanliness and good order preserved on board that the health of the immigrants occupying those compartments has been so well preserved under the circumstances. The people by the " Forfarshire " appear to be of a suitable description, the large proportion of able-bodied single men being especially adapted to the wants of the mining and agricultural districts. We beg to recommend payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent, and to the master, mate, and purser. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Bubgess.
No. 6. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 175.) Sin, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 30th July, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Lammershagen," which arrived at Wellington upon the 11th July instant: —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 6. Commissionebs' Eepoet on ship " Lammershagen." Sib, — • Immigration Office, Wellington, 21st July, 1875. We have to report the arrival of the German ship " Lammershagen " on Sunday, the 11th instant, with 330 statute adults, from Hamburg, there having been sis births and five deaths, equal to one and a half adults, during the voyage. Early on the 12th we mustered the immigrants and inspected the vessel, when we were pleased to find everything to our satisfaction. The deck-houses, by means of which access was gained to the 'tween-decks, were particularly good, and similar constructions have been before recommended by us for uso in British vessels carrying immigrants to this colony. The ladders and fittings generally were much more substantial than in English vessels. The married people were located under the poop and also in the 'tween-decks, they having the use of the after and main hatches; the compartment was roomy and well ventilated; we considered it rather dark however, but, as our inspection took place during an exceedingly heavy rain-squal], it was explained to us that the compartment was darker than it usually was, as the doors of the deck-houses were shut and other means of lighting were covered over. The single girls were berthed under the poop ; their compartment was an exceedingly comfortable one, and they had an excellent bath-room; the single men's compartment was under the fore-hatch, and was clean, roomy, and well ventilated. The means of ventilation throughout this vessel were particularly good, in fact we may say better than in any vessel we have yet inspected. The male hospital on deck, and the female hospital under the poop, were well ventilated and convenient, as also was the dispensary, which was under the poop. The galley and condenser was good. The immigrants generally were healthy and of good physique, and, so far as we could ascertain, there was little or no organic disease amongst them. We regret to report, however, that two of the single girls were confined on board, and were still in bed at the time of our inspection; their names are, C P , 32, and P B , 24. We mention this fact in order that inquiries may be instituted as to how they obtained their certificates of character. In conclusion, we recommend the payment of gratuities, and we think that every praise is due to Captain Paul, Surgeon-Superintendent Peilberg, and the officers of the ship, for the very creditable manner in which she was brought into port. Alexandee Johnston, M.D. H. J. 11. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Holliday.
No. 7. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebax. (No. 183.) g IE) — Immigration Office, "Wellington, 19th August, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the "White Rose," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton on the 21st ultimo: —1. Eeport by Immigration
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Commissioners. 2. Eeport by the surgeon-superintendent. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 7. Commissionebs' Bepobt on Ship "White Eose." Lyttelton, 31st July, 1875. The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the 21st instant, after a protracted passage of 150 days. It appears from the evidence of the surgeon, and Mr. C. W. Best, chief officer, that Captain T. S. Thorpe died on the passage after the ship had been at sea fifty-two days. Extracts from the surgeon's journal relating to the captain's death are attached to this reporb. On the master's decease the chief officer took command of the ship, but in consequence of the bad stowage of the cargo he found it necessary to put into Mauritius. The ship remained there from 22nd May to 10th Juno. The Commissioners were pleased to hear that the immigrants received much kindness and attention from the inhabitants during their delay, and at the same time they note with satisfaction that strict discipline was observed in all the compartments. The roll was called every evening, and no one remained on shore at night. The Commissioners, having heard that fever prevailed at Mauritius during the ship's detention there, took stringent measures on the ship's arrival at Lyttelton for preventing the landing of any one on board until an inspection had been made. This inspection was, on the whole, satisfactory, but it was deemed advisable, although no sickness prevailed on board, to land the immigrants at the Quarantine Station to wash and air their clothes, &c. The compartments were lofty, well ventilated, and moderately clean. The condenser and cooking apparatus had worked satisfactorily. Some complaints having been made as to the issue of stores, the Commissioners held an inquiry, the result of which exonerated the officer in charge from all blame. The Commissioners recommend payment of the following gratuities : —-To the relatives of the late Captain Thorpe, £10; to Captain C. W. Best, £15; to chief officer ditto, £4; to acting chief officer, £4; to chief officer appointed at Mauritius, £2. To the surgeon-superintendent and others as per letter from Agent-General. Wm. Donald. John F. Bouse. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration. J. E. Maecie.
No. 8. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 187.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 20th August, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " James Nicol Fleming," which vessel arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 4th instant: —1. Report of the Immigration Commissioners. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 8. Commissionees' Bepokt on Ship " James Nicol Fleming." Sib, — Port Chalmers, 9th August, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " James Nicol Fleming" from London, on the 4th instant, with 251 statute adult immigrants; four deaths, equal to one and a half statute adults, and three births, having occurred on the passage, which occupied ninety-two days. On inspecting the ship we found every compartment in a perfect state of order and cleanliness. The ventilation was through the deck, and was found satisfactory. The hospitals and surgeon's dispensary were in deck-houses. We approve much of this arrangement, which we hope to see carried out for the future. The galley was sufficient for cooking purposes, and the condenser was equal to its requirements. During the latter part of the voyage tank water had to be used in consequence of scarcity of coals, to keep the condenser going. Care should in future be taken that a sufficient quantity of fuel is put on board emigrant ships for all purposes, as it would become a serious matter to be short of fuel in case of a ship making a long passage. It has lately come under our notice that the passenger cooks in most immigrant ships are shipped at Is. per month. We find that such has been the case in the " James Nicol Fleming." We think this most objectionable. A man who is not adequately paid cannot be expected to take the same interest in the work or do it so cheerfully and efficiently as one who receives a fair remuneration for his services. Dr. Hanan, who was in charge of the immigrants on this occasion, visited this port in a similar capacity last year. We congratulate him on his success this voyage, and on the perfect order and discipline that evidently prevailed amongst the immigrants. It proves (if proof were needed) how important it is to obtain the services of gentlemen as surgeon-superintendents who have had experience in a similar capacity on a previous occasion. Captain Gale and his officers performed their duties satisfactorily. We have pleasure in recommending the payment of all gratuities. We have, &c, Colin Allan. John Dbtsdale. His Honor the Deputy Superintendent, Otago. Wm. Thomson.
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No. 9. a The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent- Genebal. (No. 189.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 25th August, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Aldergrove," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 25th July ultimo: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. You will observe that the Commissioners reported very unfavourably as to the fitness of the surgeon-superintendent for his onerous and responsible duties, and recommended that his gratuity be withheld. I have approved this recommendation, and have to request you not to re-employ him; and I desire to call your attention to the Commissioners' remark as to the necessity of insuring that only persons in sound health shall be appointed surgeon-superintendents of immigrant ships. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
« Enclosure in No. 9. Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship " Aldergrove." Sin, — Port Chalmers, 9th August, 1875. The ship " Aldergrove " arrived from G-lasgow with Government imrngrants on the 25th ultimo, having made a passage of eighty-six' days. Her immigrants numbered 304^ statute adults. On perusal of the ship's report we found that measles prevailed in an epidemic form on board during the passage, and that twenty deaths had occurred amongst the children. Under the circumstances, we deemed it advisable to place the ship in quarantine pending the decision of the Board of Health, to which we made a report. The Board having met on the following day, it deputed Dr. Brown, one of its members, to visit the ship in company with Health and Immigration Officers, and furnish a report to an adjourned meeting of the Board, to be held on the evening of the same day. The Board, on consideration of Dr. Brown's report, advised that the whole of the immigrants be removed to the Quarantine Station for the purpose of washing the whole of the clothes worn on the passage and thoroughly cleansing themselves. The immigrants were accordingly removed out of the ship on the 28th; the married people and single females to Quarantine Island, and the single men to the station on Goat Island. Dr. Drysdale was appointed by the Board to visit them while in quarantine. The Board having again met on the 30th, and the report of the Health Officer being favourable, it was resolved to admit the single men to pratique on the 31st, and the married people and single females on Monday, the 2nd August, Dr. Drysdale being appointed to inspect them'before being released. One family was kept in quarantine a few days longer in consequence of one of the children belonging to it having recently had the measles. The ship after being thoroughly fumigated was admitted to pratique on Thursday, the 29th July. "We made our usual inspection that day, and found the several compartments scrupulously clean and admirably ventilated. This is the first ship of the Glasgow line fitted on the block system, which has been found, so great an improvement in the London ships. We were pleased to find the passengers' and ship's galleys in separate compartments, and would recommend that the same system should be henceforth, adopted in all emigrant ships carrying between 300 and 400 passengers. A number of immigrants having lodged a complaint against the surgeon-superintendent, we carefully inquired into the matter, and after due consideration arrived at the following conclusions :— 1. That with regard to the complaint that the children's stores were not issued for the first fourteen days, we find that this is not correct. It appears, however, that the full quantities of such stores were not served out for the first week, the reason given being that they could not be got at. We have evidence, however, to the effect that during this period substitutes from the cabin stores were issued by the captain. 2. That as to the charge of intoxication brought against the surgeon-superintendent, we have no conclusive evidence. It is, however, admitted on all hands that his health was very bad during the entire voyage, and that, in fact, the voyage was undertaken by him with the hope of improving his already infirm state af health. We think it therefore not impossible that in this case the effects of bad health may have frequently been mistaken for intoxication. 3. That with respect to the charge of irregularity and neglect in his attendance on the sick, we find that this has been much exaggerated, and may be in a great measure explained by the aforementioned state of his health. 4. That with regard to the alleged want of discipline and control exercised over the single women, we find that there likewise has been exaggeration. It appears that, in compliance with a request of the parents of some of the single women, the surgeon-superintendent acceded to their wish that the hatches should be left open during the night while in the tropics, the said parents constituting themselves a watch over their daughters in the meantime. We consider, in so acting, the surgeonsuperintendent showed a want of firmness and a certain amount of incapacity, for which he is censurable. With reference to the allegation that one of the single women, named G , spent a considerable portion of her time in the cabin, we find this to be correct. We have, however, the evidence of a highly respectable cabin passenger which goes to prove that there was no immorality, but that G was there merely as the doctor's nurse; and, further, as to the charge that other single women visited the cabin, the same cabin passenger states that these women were there at the invitation of his wife. Here again we find that the surgeon-superintendent failed to show a proper appreciation of the duties pertaining to his office, Finally, on reviewing all the circumstances of this case, we would respectfully recommend that the surgeon-superintendent be paid the head money, but payment of the gratuity be withheld. We would further respectfully suggest that this case be brought under the notice of the Home Emigration Depart-
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ment, witli the view of pointing out the choice of a healthy person as surgeon is almost as essential as the selection of healthy emigrants. As Captain i'ullartou and his officers performed their respective duties satisfactorily, we recommend that their gratuities be paid. We have, Ac, Colin Allan. John Dbysdale. His Honor the Deputy Superintendent, Otago. William Thomson.
No. 10. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent- Genebal. (No. 193.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 25th August, 1875. Eeferring to my letter No. 177, of 31st July, I have now the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Collingwood," which arrived at Port Nicholson upon the Bth July ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have to call your attention especially to that portion of the Commissioners' report which treats of the outbreak of scarlet fever on the voyage, which they attribute, failing a more reasonable theory, to the contagion having been brought on board in emigrants' clothes and effects, and refer to the statement by the surgeon, that he was given to understand that one of the Lincolnshire families had scarlatina in their home shortly before leaving. As this name of the family, W ,is given, it may possibly be in your power to direct inquiries which may result in ascertaining whether any blame is attached to the Medical Officer who signed the certificates of health. 2. You will observe the Commissioners report, with regard to the ship, the recurrence of what has been frequently made the subject of complaint by these officers, i.e., the hurried manner in which the stores were put on board at the last moment, thus entailing confusion in their arrangement, so as to be inaccessible when required on the voyage, and rendering a proper system of check impossible. For instance, in this vessel the sand, a most necessary article for health and comfort on the voyage, could never be found, although it must be presumed that your Despatching Officer took care that it was placed on board. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 10. Commissioners' Report on Ship " Collingwood." Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 13th August, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Collingwood " on the 9th ultimo with 289 souls, equal to 230 adults. During the voyage there were twenty deaths, equal to ten and a half adults, and four births. There have also been four deaths, equal to two and a half statute adults, during the time the immigrants have been at the Quarantine Station. A return from the surgeon-superintendent of the causes of death on board the vessel is appended, together with a report of the voyage. On the 19th, the vessel having been thoroughly fumigated and painted in the ,'tween-decks, saloon, and forecastle, we inspected her. We found her a roomy, comfortable, and well-ventilated vessel. The single girls were in the after part of the 'tween-decks, having the use of the after hatch as well as direct communication on to the poop. The hospitals, closet, bathroom, dispensary, and matron's cabin were all under the poop and good, being airy, well lighted, and of convenient size. We observe, however, that the surgeon states that the hospitals were frequently swamped with sea water. The married people were berthed mid-ships, having the use of the main hatch. The single men were in the forepart of the ship, having the use of the fore hatch. As all the fittings had been removed before our inspection, we can express no opinion as to the arrangement of the berths or the condition of the vessel while the immigrants were on board, but we are told that the berths were arranged in blocks having alley-ways around the side of the ship. Complaint was however made by the surgeon and captain that the ventilation was much impaired owing to there being no aperture at the top of the bulkheads dividing the compartments. We were pleased to see that, owing to our representations with regard to former vessels, the gutter way in the 'tween-decks had been covered over, and we are convinced that if this had not been done the mortality would have been much greater than it was. This is the first vessel placed in quarantine by us in which disease has spread to the saloon and forecastle, the second officer and some of the crew being ill when she arrived, while the surgeon-super-intendent and his son had both been attacked with fever during the voyage. We have taken some trouble to endeavour to ascertain the cause of so much sickness in this vessel where everything was so favourable for the health and comfort of the immigrants —namely, a fine roomy vessel having accommodation for a larger number of statute adults, and making what may be considered a good passage, and, so far as we have been able to ascertain, a skilful and painstaking surgeon, ably assisted by a kind and considerate captain —and the only decision we can arrive at is that the contagion of scarlet fever was brought on board in the emigrants' clothes or effects. No inspector could therefore be held responsible unless he had some means of detecting or destroying the disease before the immigrants embarked. It will be observed that the surgeon states that he is given to understand that one of the Lincolnshire families had scarlatina in their home shortly before leaving ; this family is named W , and we mention the fact in order that inquiries may be made into the statement. Great complaint has been made as to the dirty habits of the Lincolnshire iuimigrants, who were all berthed in one part of the ship,
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which appears to have been the darkest and worst ventilated. This would fully account for the great number of deaths amongst the people from that county, nearly every one of them having lost two or three members of their family, who reckoned as adults or half-adults. .Reference has also been made to the unfavourable day upon which the emigrants embarked, but it will be seen from the surgeon's report that when they left the depot at Blaekwall the weather was particularly fine and warm, but that before their transhipment to the " Collingwood," at Gravesend, the rain came on, wetting the emigrants and their luggage; but we understood that the bedding, which was all placed in the berths beforehand, was quite dry. We would call attention to the fact that no sand was put on board; also that the bad stowage of the medical comforts gave rise to some inconvenience, some of the articles not having been found until the vessel had been some time on her voyage. In fact this vessel seems to have been no exception to the ordinary rule, stores being hurried on board at the last moment and tumbled into the vessel in such a manner as to render it impossible to keep a check, or to arrange them so aa to give ready access during the voyage. Under these circumstances a captain is powerless, as if he declines to sign for the stores he is refused his clearance. Deadlights had also to be fixed after the vessel had proceeded on her voyage. In conclusion, we recommend the payment of all gratuities, and, judging from the flattering testimonials given by the immigrants, as also from what we have seen of Dr. Hamilton and Captain Black since their arrival here, we believe that they have performed their duties under exceedingly trying circumstances in a highly satisfactory and conscientious manner. We have, &c, Alexander Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Hollidat.
No. 11. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 196.) Sir, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 30th August, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Star of China," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton upon the 2nd instant: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 11. Commissioners' Report on Ship "Star of China." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the 2nd instant, after a passage of 104 days* The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the voyage. The surgeon reported two births on the passage, and one death (a married woman) after the ship's arrival in Lyttelton. The compartments were clean, lofty, and well ventilated. The provisions had been served out in accordance with the charter-party, the quality was good, and no complaints of any kind were made. The cooking and condensing apparatus (Graveley's) had worked satisfactorily. The immigrants spoke in high terms of the kind treatment they had received from the surgeon-superintendent and officers of the ship. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent, should he desire it. Wii. Donald. Lyttelton, 4th August, 1875. J. E. March.
No. 12. The Hon. H. A, Atkinson to the Agent- General. (No. 198.) Sib,— Immigration Office, Wellington, 30th August, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Countess of Kintore," which vessel arrived at Napier upon the Bth June ultimo :—l. Immigration Officer's report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclostire in No. 12. Immigration Officer's Eepoet on Ship " Countess of Kintore." Sir, — Immigration Office, Napier, 30th June, 1875. I have the honor to inform you that the ship "Countess of Kintore " arrived in the Ahuriri Roadstead on the Bth June. I have the pleasure of again reporting all well. One birth and two deaths, one male aged one year and one female aged four years, occurred during the voyage. She 2—D. 3.
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landed 115-j statute adults. I transmit herewith a copy of the doctor's report. The immigrants reported themselves satisfied with the treatment they had received from the captain, surgeon, and officers of the ship ; also with the provisions served out to them. The "Countess of Kintore " made a very rapid passage of 81 days from port to port, and arrived in excellent condition. The immigrants are of a very good class, and were landed —single girls on the day they arrived, and married and single men on the day after. I have, &c, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration. G. T. Fannin.
No. 13. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 202.) Sic, — Immigration Office, "Wellington, 22nd September, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Blairgowrie," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton upon the 23rd August last:—l. Immigration Commissioner's report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 13. Commissionebs' Eeport on Ship " Blairgowrie." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the evening of the 23rd instant, after a passage of eighty-five days. The health of the immigrants had been very good : two births and one death (a child under eighteen months) occurred during the passage. All the compartments were clean, lofty, and well ventilated, and the fitting arrangements satisfactory. The provisions had been served out regularly and in accordance with the new dietary scale ; the water was excellent, and no complaints of any kind were made. Shortly after leaving, the matron, Mrs. Dryhurst, was taken ill, and Mrs. Vale was appointed in her place. The Commissioners were pleased with the class of immigrants by this ship : they appeared well suited for the requirements of the province. The immigrants all expressed themselves well pleased with the kind treatment they had received from the surgeon-superintendent and officers of the ship. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent should he desire it. Wk. Donald. John P. Rotjse. Lyttelton, 24th August, 1875. J. E. Mabch.
No. 14 The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 203.) Sic, — Immigration Office, 22nd September, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the "Alumbagh," which vessel arrived at Auckland upon 18th August last: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 14. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship " Alumbagh." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 19th August, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the " Alumbagh " on the 18th instant, 100 days from London, with 406 Government immigrants. The usual inspection of the ship and passengers took placo the same day. The surgeon-superintendent reports a large amount of sickness among the children during the early part of the voyage, chiefly measles, diarrhoea, and hooping-cough. Fourteen children of from seven months to two years of age died of these diseases. Two adults also died during the voyage—a single woman twenty-six years of age, and a single man twenty years, both of lung disease. Total number of deaths sixteen. There were four births : two of these are twins, of which an unmarried girl named E "W was delivered during the voyage. The immigrants expressed themselves well satisfied with the treatment they had received, and the captain, surgeon, and matron speak favourably of the general conduct of the passengers as a body. The provisions of every description were of the best quality, and the supply abundant. There was also at all times an abundance of good freshwater. The ship's steerage accommodation is excellent. The several compartments, as respects lighting, ventilation, and spaciousness, present a favourable contrast with most immigrant ships heretofore arriving at this port. Every attention appears to have been paid to cleanliness and good order among the immigrants throughout the voyage. The people by this ship, there is every reason to believe, will prove an acceptable addition to the working population of the province.
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We beg to recommend payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent, and to the master, mate, and purser. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. PhiLsoN, M.D. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Bttegess.
No. 15. The Hon. 11. A. Atkinson to the Agent-G-enebal. (No. 204.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 22nd September, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Dover Castle," which vessel arrived at Auckland upon the 24th August last: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, Ac, The Agent-G-eneral for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinsox
Enclosure in No. 15. Commissionees' Repobt on Ship "Dover Castle." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 6th September, 1875. "We have the honor to report the arrival of the " Dover Castle" from Belfast late on the evening of the 24th ultimo, with 356 Government immigrants on board. The ship having been brought to anchor outside the North Head, we proceeded next morning to where she lay for the purpose of conducting the usual inspection, when we discovered that scarlatina had been prevalent among a portion of the immigrants during the early part of the voyage, and, though it had disappeared for a time, a fresh case had broken out five days before the ship's arrival in port. Under these circumstances it was deemed prudent, upon the advice of the Health Officer, to send the ship and passengers into quarantine, and this was carried into effect accordingly. The first outbreak of scarlatina was reported by the surgeon-superin-tendent to have occurred upon the 3rd June, six days after the commencement of the voyage, and the disease continued to manifest itself at intervals until the 20th July, during which nineteen cases in all were sent into hospital, two of these ending fatally, being children under six years of age. The last case occurred on the 19th of August, five days before the ship's arrival, as stated above : the patient (a lad fourteen years of age) has since entirely recovered. The immigrants on arrival at Motu Ihi were landed in parties with luggage and bedding, the latter having been fumigated on shore; the ship's compartments also were thoroughly cleansed and purified by the free use of disinfectants. No further case of infectious disease occurring up to the 31st of August, and the whole of the passengers being reported in excellent health, it was deemed unnecessary by the Health Officer to detain the ship in quarantine any longer. Accordingly all hands were admitted to pratique at that date, and the usual inspection was conducted by us upon the following day. The result, we are happy to state, was in all respects satisfactory. The accommodation for immigrants on board the " Dover Castle" is altogether of a superior description ; the compartments are roomy, and the general internal arrangements reflect the highest credit upon the judgment of those intrusted with the duty of fitting out the ship. The lighting and ventilation were specially effective, and the utmost attention appears to have been paid to the comfort of the passengers, and to the preservation of cleanliness and good order. The supplies of all kinds, including medical comforts and fresh water, were abundant and of the best description. Ten deaths in all occurred among the passengers, and two births. Of the deaths, two were from scarlatina, and seven from ordinary causes, all children from one month to six years of age. A married woman, twenty-four years of age, died of rheumatic fever and dropsy. The immigrants, who expressed themselves well satisfied with their treatment on the voyage, appear to be a healthy and industrious class of people, and there is reason to believe they will prove a valuable addition to the population of the colony. "We beg to recommend payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent and the ship's officers. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Btjbgess.
No. 16. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-G\enebal. (No. 205.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 24th September, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Friedeburg," which vessel arrived at Napier upon the 24th August last: —1. Report of Immigration Commissioners. 2. Report by the Immigration Officer. 3. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 4. Certified list of births and deaths. I have to call your attention to the memorandum by his Honor J. D. Ormond upon the Immigration Officer's report. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
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Enclosure in No. 16. Commissioners' Eepobt on Ship " Friedburg." Sib, — Immigration Commissioners' Office, Napier, 2nd September, 1875. The Immigration Commissioners, in accordance with instructions, beg to report the arrival of the ship " Friedeburg," on the 24th August, 1875, all well. The immigrants were quite satisfied with the treatment received, and made not a single complaint. The Commissioners managed to get four single girls married on arrival here, who had been encientes before leaving Hamburg. Two more are in the same condition. Commissioners, on inquiring, cannot ascertain that any irregularity had occurred during the voyage ; but this information has already been telegraphed by the Immigration Officer. I have, &c, Geo. Thos. Eannin, The Under Secretary for Immigration, Wellington. (for Commissioners).
No. 17. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 213.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 27th September, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the "Halcione," which vessel arrived at New Plymouth upon the 2nd instant:—l. Eeport by the Immigration Commissioners at New Plymouth. 2. Eeport by the surgeon-superintendent, 3. Eeport by the Immigration Officer for Wellington. 4. Correspondence with the agents of the ship relative to a claim by the captain for consideration in consequence of not being able to land all the immigrants at New Plymouth. You will observe that I did not consider myself justified in acceding to the request of the captain for payment of the gratuity of £1 per adult for those immigrants who were not landed at New Plymouth. It appeared to mo that the reasonable course for the captain to have pursued, under the circumstances of the weather at the time, would have been to stand off and on the anchorage for the night, instead of proceeding as he did at once to Wellington. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand. London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure 1 in No. 17. Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Halcione." Sib, — New Plymouth, 3rd September, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Halcione " from London, on the evening of the 2nd instant. She was sighted about 3 o'clock. Tour Commissioners left the beach about half-past 5 p.m., accompanied by Captain Holford, Harbour-master, and Mr. Gore, of H.M. Customs, and, after a long pull of eight miles, arrived alongside the ship about 7 o'clock, and, after our medical brother had received satisfactory answers to all his questions, we proceeded on board, and inspected the quarters of the immigrants. We found the quarters of the single women clean, compact, and in every way satisfactory, except the partition, which we saw for the first time was run fore and aft, separating the single from the married people : your Commissioners do not approve novelty. The married people's division was next examined, and, with the before-mentioned divisional separation, everything was found neat, orderly, and clean. We next inspected the forward compartments allotted to the single men: this was found in very complete order, clean, and well ventilated, much superior to the two first compartments inspected. As no complaints were made, the Commissioners judged it prudent to remain on board for the night; their boat therefore returned to shore without them. The surgeon's report was then carefully gone into, and the following remarks of the surgeon-superintendent on that report are brought to the notice of the Hon. the Minister for Immigration:— 1. That eleven days after leaving England the eruptive stage of measles first made its appearance. The cause the surgeon ascribes to the fact of one A McC , who was sent ashore at Gravesend, suffering from the above disease; and also that several families had recently left parishes in England where both scarlet fever and measles were rife; indeed some of the emigrants' children had but recently recovered from scarlet fever, which left the sequela marasmus. 2. That it is the opinion of the surgeon of the ship, and also of the Commissioners, that it is a very great mistake in sending poor infants, never strong from their birth, on such a long sea voyage. The Commissioners would suggest that for the future the single females should be strictly kept on the poop, and should have their berths aft, beneath the poop ; and further, that no passengers should be carried on board immigrant ships but the immigrants themselves, thus obviating the difficulty experienced by many surgeons and captains in keeping saloon passengers and the single women apart. The Commissioners inspected the hospital next morning, and also the dispensary, and found them clean, but they would recommend that all the hospitals should be on deck, as the patients would have more air, and there is less danger of spreading disease. The condenser was next visited and found in good order : it worked well during the voyage, and gave a plentiful supply of good water. There was a sufficiency of medical comforts, food, light, and ventilation on board. The Commissioners recommend the usual gratuities to the ship's officers and surgeon, schoolmaster, matron, surgeon' 3
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assistant, Ac. All the immigrants spoke highly of their kindness and attention. The matron over the single women deserves the greatest praise for the careful manner in which she has discharged her duties. The Commissioners therefore recommend her for future employment in that capacity, if she so desires, and further bring her case before the Hon. the Minister for Immigration for favourable consideration. P. T. O'Caeeoll. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration. W. K. Hulke.
Enclosure 2 in No. 17. Immigration Officeb's Eepoet on Ship " Halcione." Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 7th September, 1875. I have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Halcione" on the sth instant, with Government immigrants for the Province of Taranaki, which place she had been obliged to leave through stress of weather without landing all her passengers. There were also on board nine and a half adults for this province. Immediately upon arrival the Commissioners boarded the vessel and found everything satisfactory, but, as the Immigration Commissioners at Taranaki had fully inspected the vessel and her passengers, the Commissioners here did not consider it necessary to make another minute inspection and report. The Taranaki immigrants, numbering 139 adults, were this day reembarked by the s.s. " Taranaki" for their destination —one family remaining here as the mother was unable, through illness, to proceed on her journey. The immigrants for this port were also landed to-day. I have, &c, His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. H. J. H. Eliott.
No. 18. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General.' (No. 215.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 19th October, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Chile," which vessel arrived at New Plymouth upon the 26th September ultimo: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3, Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 18. Commissionebs' Eepobt on Ship " Chile." Sib,— New Plymouth, 26th September, 1875. We, the Immigration Commissioners of this port, beg to report for your information that we have this day inspected the ship " Chile," just arrived from London with 160j adults, equal to 196 souls on board, and found the ship moderately clean and the passengers healthy ; and, no complaints being made to us by the latter as regards either provisions or treatment, permission was granted to the Immigration Officer for their disembarkation. Tour Commissioners visited the unmarried females' compartment—after part of saloon —found it clean and well ventilated, no inmates in their hospital, which, as well as their bunks, tables, &c, was found clean and in good order. The married people's quarters amidships were also found clean. The single men's compartment of the vessel was next visited, and found both far from clean, the after parts dark, and ill ventilated. The surgeon-superin-tendent informed us he had had an addition made to an ordinary windsail for the purpose of ventilating their compartment more thoroughly, but it had been lost or thrown overboard in the southern latitudes, where it was not required. The condenser was next inspected. We found it in good working order: the engineer in charge informed us it had worked well during the voyage, giving about 200 gallons of water each day. The hospitals for males and married females were next inspected, and of their arrangement and situation your Commissioners must report very unfavourably. These two hospitals were right forward near the bow of the vessel, opposite one another, so that, if the surgeon had to treat female or midwifery cases, he was quite close to the male patients' hospital. We would most earnestly urge upon the Hon. the Immigration Minister the advisability of having the married females' hospital in such a position as would command more privacy, the hospital for that class on board the " Chile " being in the most public part of the ship. In fact your Commissioners would advise that, if possible, all hospitals should be on deck: one forward, one amidships, and one aft. We could find no fault with the surgeon-superintendent; he had done his duty well, and from his remarks we gathered that the London Emigration Officer laboured under the same impression as we do now with regard to the male and married females' hospitals. The Commissioners would therefore remark that in their opinion the " Chile " should not for the future be employed as an immigration ship, being in very many respects greatly inferior to the class of vessels such as the " Halcione," and other ships of a more modern date. Your Commissioners next inspected the surgeon's log, and from it learnt that there were two deaths during the voyage —namely, the passengers' cook, who in a fit of delirium tremens jumped overboard, and was with great exertion saved, but died some days after of bronchitis. The other death was caused by pleurisy. Two births took place during the voyage, one of which was still-born,
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All the immigrants speak highly both of the surgeon-superintendent, Dr. O'Leary, and the captain of the ship, who each received testimonials from the passengers thanking them for their kindness and attention. We have therefore much pleasure in recommending that the usual gratuities, &c, be paid to these gentlemen and other officers of the ship, a3 well as those to the matron, schoolmaster, nurse, and constables, &c. The surgeon-superintendent reports that the supply of preserved or concentrated milk was not equal in quality, and could not be depended on. We also found that the water-closets, &c, were clean and suitable for the requirements of the immigrants. We have, &c, P. Y. O'Cabboll. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. W. K. Htjlke.
No. 19. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 219.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 22nd October, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relating to the "Merope," which vessel arrived at Timaru upon the 23rd September ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners'report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and'deaths upon the voyage. The immigrants were all landed at Timaru, and, in accordance therefore with the terms of the charter-party, the sum of £1 per adult —£225—has been paid to the agents of the vessel. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 19. Commissionees' Eepoet on Ship " Merope." Sic,— Timaru, 25th September, 1875. "We have the honor to report that the ship " Merope," from London via Plymouth, arrived in port on the 23rd inst., after a smart passage of 84 days from the latter port. Two births and three deaths occurred on the passage, the latter being infants. Tho general health of the immigrants was very satisfactory. On inspection we have great pleasure in bearing testimony to the extreme cleanliness of every compartment of the ship, for which the surgeon and matron deserve every praise. On the usual questions being asked by the Commissioners, the immigrants unanimously expressed their satisfaction with the treatment they had received on the passage. The medical comforts and extras put on board for the children were abundant, and given out as necessity required. The distilling apparatus (which also supplies the steam for cooking the immigrants' food) worked well. There being only one boiler to supply steam for both, very serious consequences would have occurred had any accident happened to it. The single women's hospital was very badly lighted. "We wish to draw attention to a number of pigs being carried for the use of the saloon passengers ; these animals create much unpleasantness, besides causing great inconvenience to the immigrants. The captain, surgeon, and officers performed their respective duties very conscientiously, and we recommend that they be paid the usual gratuities. We have, &c., P. Mclnttee, M.B. P. LeCeen. His Honor the Superintendent of Canterbury. B. Woollcombe.
No. 20. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 224.) Sib, — Immigration Office, "Wellington, 25th October, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of tho following documents relative to the " Carisbrook Castle," which vessel arrived at Auckland upon the Bth of September ultimo: —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 20. Commissionebs' Kepobt on Ship "Carisbrook Castle." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 20th September, 1875. We have tho honor to report the arrival of the " Carisbrook Castle," from Belfast, on the Bth instant, having on board a total of 3G3 souls, comprising Mr. G. V. Stewart's party of special settlers for Katikati, numbering 238 individuals, with 125 free Government immigrants. The usual inspection took place the same day. The ship had a favourable passage of ninety-one days from port
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to port. No infectious disease was known among the passengers, all of whom expressed themselves satisfied with the treatment they received during the voyage. Seven births and two deaths occurred, the latter being of infants from ordinary causes. The general condition of cleanliness and good order in which the ship arrived in port, and which appears to have been maintained throughout the voyage, reflects the highest credit upon the surgeonsuperintendent, Dr. Button, Captain Preebody and his officers, and the matron and assistant matrons in charge of the large number of single women of all classes forming a considerable proportion of the immigrants on board. The accommodation was excellent, with the exception of a few of the second class cabins occupied by some of the special settlers, which were inconveniently situated and badly lighted. The principal compartments, however, and especially those for single women, in respect to light, space, and ventilation, were all that could be desired. The supplies of all kinds, including medical comforts and fresh water, were abundant, and of the best description. We bog to recommend payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent and the ship's officers. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Bubgess.
No. 21. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-G-enebal. (No. 226.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 25th October, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Waikato," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton on the 3rd instant: —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Schoolmaster's report. 4. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, <fee, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 21. Commissioxees' Kepoet on Ship " Waikato." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the 3rd instant, after a passage of ninety-eight days. The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the passage. The surgeon reported six births and five deaths (children), equal to one and a half adults. All the compartments wore clean, and the light and ventilation perfect. A few complaints were made as to the issue of provisions. On inquiry the Commissioners ascertained that this was mainly owing to the fact that the scale on the contract ticket issued to the immigrants did not correspond with the scale issued to the officer whose duty it was to serve out the stores. The cooking and distilling apparatus had worked satisfactorily throughout the passage. The matron performed her duties exceedingly well, this beiug the third time she has had the charge of single women. The Commissioners recommend the payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent should he desire it. Wm. Donald. FeEDK. D. GrIBSON. Johx F. Eouse. Lyttelton, 4th October, 1875. J. E. Maech.
No. 22. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent- G-enebal. (No. 229.) Sir, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 23rd October, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the 11 Eodney," which ship arrived at Wellington upon the 29th August last: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report, covering report of the surgeon-superintendent. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. 3. Copy of letter addressed by the Under Secretary in accordance with my instructions to Captain Louttit. I visited the ship within a few hours after her arrival in port, and availed myself of the opportunity of thoroughly inspecting her before the immigrants were landed, or the fittings of the compartments occupied by them removed. The whole arrangements appeared to me of the most satisfactory character, with the exception of the flimsy construction of the booby-hatches, which you will observe is specially noted by the Commissioners. I was much struck with the purity of the atmosphere in the 'tween-decks, notwithstanding the large number of people on board, evidencing as it did a very complete system of ventilation. The captain having informed me that he had at the commencement of the voyage organized a system of boat and fire drill, the immigrants having, like the crew of a man-of-war, certain specified duties allotted to them in the event of casualty by fire or wreck, at my request he caused the fire-bell to be rung, and it was most satisfactory to see the order and discipline which prevailed. The women and children remained below, whilst the men at once, under the command of officers of the ship, went to their respective quarters with an alacrity which showed careful drill and practice. It had not previously been brought under my notice that in emigrant ships, chartered by the New Zealand Government, any such system of organization was carried out; but upon the arrival of
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the " Halciono " the printed instructions of Messrs. Shaw, Savill, and Co. to the commanders of their ships were submitted for my perusal. These do not bear any date, but would seem to be subsequent to the loss of the " Cospatrick," and in all probability were issued upon your suggestion, and appear to me to make every possible provision in case of danger under the existing state of the law. Inter alia, it is an imperative order that the officers and crew shall be appointed to stations to which, on an alarm of fire, it will be their duty to repair, and that, although the emigrants cannot be compelled to work, volunteers for the fire brigade should be urged to come forward and drill with the crew. lam informed that the Xew Zealand Shipping Company have issued substantially the same instructions. The vital importance of the services of a disciplined body of emigrants being available in case of fire or other casualty, in accord with the crew under the instructions of the officers, induces me to think that the adoption of a system such as that so successfully carried out on board the " Eodney " should be enforced in the case of all our emigrant ships. lam aware that this would require legislation by the Imperial Parliament; and in the event of your not already having taken action in this direction, which from the tenor of your despatches I consider probable, I would suggest for your consideration that you should communicate with the Colonial Office with the view of introducing an amendment in the Passenger Acts, giving the necessary power to the masters of ships carrying emigrants. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 22. Commissioners' Eeport on Ship " Eodney." Sir, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 13th September, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Eodney " on the 29th ultimo, with 396 statute adult immigrants. There were six births and nine deaths, equal to one and a half statute adults, during the voyage. The immigrants and ship were inspected on the 30th, when we found everything in a highly satisfactory condition. The single men had a good permanent hatch-house at the entrance to their compartment, which was roomy and well ventilated, it being the place for second class private passengers. The married people had the use of the main and after hatches; their bunks were in blocks with alley-ways around the sides of the ship. There were large permanent ventilators, and the compartment was clean and sweet. The single girls were in the after part of the ship, having a direct entrance to their compartment from the poop. They had plenty of light and ventilation, and the closet, bath-room, hospital, and matron's cabin were particularly good, all being part of the saloon berths. The married women's hospital was the stern cabin, being roomy, well ventilated, and in every respect convenient. The male hospital, on deck, was also very convenient. The galley, condenser, and bakehouse each proved equal to the requirements of the immigrants, and were well fitted and convenient. Complaint, however, was made as to the quality of the flour, which is reported to have caused no little discontent amongst the adult immigrants, as well as sickness amongst the children. We have procured a sample of this flour, which will be tested by a practical baker, when we will send a report thereon. The issuing room and dispensary were on each side of the main hatch, and were reported to be convenient. In going round the ship for inspection we were struck with the order and discipline which prevailed, and we observed, for the first time in an immigrant ship, that notices respecting smoking, drill instruction for fire, night watches, &c, were posted up, and while we were on board the opportunity was taken of exercising the immigrants and crew in fire and boat-lowering drill. We learn from the surgeon's diary that some trouble was experienced with the single men, saloon passengers, and we desire again to express our opinion that such passengers should not be allowed to come in immigrant ships. Reference is also made to the inferior and flimsy description of the boobyhatches. We have over and over again called attention to this, and it is the opinion of every captain and surgeon we have questioned upon the subject that the booby-hatches at present used are anything but safe. Port wine and brandy, medical comforts, appear to have been short-shipped: in fact, as is usually the case, stores wero hurried on board with cargo, &c, by night and day. The confusion can be imagined when the loading, fitting, and provisioning of the vessel was completed in a week. The immigrants were on the whole a healthy and useful body of people, and no great difficulty has been experienced in disposing of them, although it is the largest number that has come to this port in one vessel. In conclusion we recommend the payment of the usual gratuities. The captain and surgeon seem to have performed their duties zealously, and with a due regard for the welfare and comfort of the immigrants under their charge. With respect to the gratuity to the chief officer, a special communication has been sent in by us. A summary of the voyage by the surgeon-superintendent, which contains some practical suggestions, is appended. We have, Ac, Alexander Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Hollidav..
No. 23. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 234.) Sir, — • Immigration Office, "Wellington, 25th October, 1875. T have the honor to forward herewith copies of the following documents relative to the "Helen Denny," which vessel arrived at Napier upon the 20th September ultimo:—l. Immigration
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Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 4. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-G-eneral for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 23. Commissioners' Report on Ship "Helen Denny." Sir, — Immigration Commissioners' Office, Napier, 15th October, 1875. The Commissioners beg to express their unqualified approval of the manner and condition in which Captain Ruth and the doctor have landed the immigrants put on board the "Helen Denny," destined for Napier, Hawke's Bay. The Commissioners, whilst expressing their opinion as above, regret to have to record the death of a man named G- E , who, in an apparent state of temporary insanity, jumped overboard in the roadstead. The inquiry which was made resulted as follows: —" That the man had during the passage been most exemplary in his conduct, and was liked by all hands; but from the fact of his being a professional swimmer, and using the expression, as he stood on the taffrail of the vessel, ' I'll be in the depot before any of you,' induces the idea that he had become for the time insane." The Commissioners fully exonerate the captain and doctor from any carelessness in this matter. As this is the second time Captain Ruth has brought his ship into this port and received the approval of the Commissioners, they, the Commissioners, beg to (although not usual) recommend that an additional gratuity should be granted to Captain Ruth of £10, for his careful attention to the wants of the immigrants. I have, &c, G-EO. Thos. Fannin, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. (for Commissioners).
No. 24 The Hon. E. Richardson to the Agent-G-eneral. (No. 249.) Sir, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 17th November, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Howrah," which vessel arrived at Wellington upon the 9th instant: —l. Immigration Commissioners' report, covering extracts from the surgeon-superintendent's journal. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. It is gratifying to me to notice the very favourable character of this report. I have, &c, E. •Eicitardson, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.
Enclosure in No. 24 Commissioners' Report on Ship "Howrah." Bie, — Wellington, 15th November, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Howrah," on the 9th instant, with 249J statute adult immigrants. Thero were nine deaths, equal to two and a half statute adults, and one birth, during the voyage. We boarded the vessel immediately after she anchored, but as it was nearly dark nothing could be done that day. Early on the 10th the immigrants were inspected, and immediately afterwards were landed. They appeared to be a healthy and well-conditioned body of people, with the exception of two or three of the Irish families. The single men were a particularly fine class of immigrants, and their compartment was, in our opinion, the most comfortable in every respect in the ship; their bunks were well arranged, having alley-ways all round, with plenty of light and ventilation. The married people's compartment was rather confined and close at the time of our inspection, but no complaints were made either by the surgeon-superintendent or the immigrants: the bunks were in blocks on the longer plan, with alleyways around. The single girls' compartment was in the after part of the saloon and 'tween-decks, with a direct entrance on the poop. The W.C., bath-room, and matron's cabin were under the poop, and were exceedingly convenient. The two female hospitals were the stern cabins of the saloon, and were, iv our opinion, suitable for what was required. We observe, however, that the surgeon-superintendent objects to their position on account of the motion of the ship. The male hospital was one of the deckhouses, but we are happy to state that there was no necessity for its use during the voyage. The galley, condenser, bakehouse, &c, were each convenient and efficient. The immigrants all expressed themselves in the highest terms of praise of the captain, surgeonsuperintendent, and officers, giving three hearty cheers in response to the questions usually put to them; and we have much pleasure in recommending the payment of all the gratuities. We have, &c, Alexander Johnston, M.D. John Holliday. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. H. J. H. Elioit. 3-D. 3.
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No. 25. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 262.) Sir, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 11th December, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the .following documents relative to the " Himalaya," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton upon the 17th November ultimo: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 25. Commissioners' Eepobt on Ship " Himalaya." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the 17th instant, after a passage of 116 days. The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the passage. The surgeon reported that there had been no births, and only one death, that of an infant. The compartments were clean, well lighted, and ventilated. The fittings were well arranged, and the bath-room in the single women's compartment worked satisfactorily. The provisions were served out in accordance with the dietary scale, and the quality was good. A few complaints were made by some of the married people respecting the treatment they had received from the surgeon, more especially as regards the issue of medical comforts. The Commissioners, after inquiring into the subject, are of opinion that the surgeon misinterpreted the instructions given him by the Agent-General. He had been kind and attentive, but wanted experience. The immigrants appeared well suited for the requirements of the colony. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities. Wm. Donald. John F. Eotjse. Ebedk. D. Gibson. Lyttelton, 19th November, 1875. J. E. Mabch.
No. 26. Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 264.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 13th December, 1875. Herewith I have the honor to transmit copies of the following documents relative to the " Ocean Mail," which vessel arrived at Auckland upon the 23rd ultimo :—l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. 8. Letter from the surgeon-superintendent upon the subject of his remuneration. Under the circumstances set forth in Dr. Harris's letter, and having regard to the satisfactory condition in which both of the ships of which he had charge have been brought into port, I have authorized effect to be given to his request that the amount of £77, becoming due to him in respect of the immigrants landed, might be made up to £100. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. . H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 26. Commissioners' Report on Ship " Ocean Mail." Sib, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 25th November, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the " Ocean Mail" on the 23rd instant, ninetynine days from London, with 170 Government immigrants. The customary inspection took place the same day, and we are gratified in being able to state that we found matters generally on board in a satisfactory condition. Very little sickness was known during the voyage, and no infectious disease had to be reported by the surgeon-superintendent. Two deaths occurred from ordinary causes, of infants under twelve months old, and four births. One of the immigrants complained that his child had not received due medical attention during its illness, but the question raised appeared to be purely of a professional character, and there was nothing to show that Dr. Harding had not fully done his duty. The immigrants as a body expressed entire satisfaction with the treatment they had received. The provisions of all kinds were of approved quality, and abundant in quantity. So also of the stock of medical comforts, and the supply of fresh water for the voyage. The ship's steerage accommodation is of an average description. Every attention evidently had been paid to cleanliness and proper ventilation, and the several compartments of the immigrants presented the appearance of comfort and good order. A large proportion of the people by this ship are single men, and nearly all have the appearance of being suitable immigrants. In conclusion, we recommend payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent and ship's officers. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. I. J. Btjrgess.
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No. 27. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 267.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 13th December, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Herschel," which vessel arrived at Port Nicholson upon the 23rd October ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. 4. Correspondence with regard to the Italian immigrants. I sent you a telegram, stating the unsuitability of the Italians, and hope it may have reached you in time to prevent a second shipment of the same class, which I understand was thought by some of the " Herschel" people to be probable. From a perusal of the documents and correspondence enclosed, I think you will agree with me that an unfortunate selection, to say the least of it, has been made by your Agent at Leghorn. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 27. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship " Herschel." Sic,— Wellington, 29th October, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the immigrant ship " Herschel" from Hamburg on the 23rd instant, with 223^ statute adults. There were four deaths, equal to two statute adults, during the voyage. On inspecting the people we found them to be a healthy stalwart body, with the exception of one or two of the Danish families who had scrofula amongst them. The married people were located partly under the poop and partly under the after hatch : their compartment was clean, well lighted and ventilated. The single women were under the poop abaft the married compartment, through which they had to pass : this we considered rather inconvenient, but no complaint was made to us by the surgeon-superintendent or the-immigrants. The single men had the use of the main and fore hatches : their compartment was a very comfortable one. The hospitals were all on deck, and were in every way suitable. The galley and condenser were efficient; in fact the arrangements generally in this vessel were very satisfactory, and the best evidence of this, as well as of the care and attention of the captain, officers, and surgeon-superintendent, was the healthy condition in which the immigrants were landed after a protracted voyage of 118 days from port to port. In conclusion we have much pleasure in recommending the payment of all the gratuities in full. We have, &c, Alexander Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Holliday.
No. 28. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 271.) Sic, — ' Immigration Office, Wellington, 13th December, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " British Empire," which vessel arrived at Auckland upon the 7th October ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified lists of births and deaths. I desire to call your special attention to the report of the surgeon-superintendent, as summarizing the many defects in the fittings, furniture, and supplies of our emigrant ships, which have been frequently brought under your notice in the reports of Immigration Commissioners and surgeon-super-intendents. I would especially refer to the following with regard to which Dr. Gobde complains : — 1. The tin water-cans being of too slight a construction, so as to leak almost from the beginning of the voyage. 2. The deficiency of the means of cleansing the decks of the compartments occupied by the immigrants. 3. The flimsy construction of the forms. 4. The insufficient supply of charcoal. 5. The inferior quality and deficiency in quantity of the stout. 6. The construction of the bunks in the married women's hospital. 7. The absence of a tank to supply water for the single women's closet. 8. The position of the store-room, the stores having to be brought up through the single women's compartment. I hare, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 28. Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " British Empire." Sic, — Immigration OiEce, Auckland, 13th October, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the " British Empire " on the 7th instant, eightyseven days from London, with 342 Government immigrants. We proceeded immediately on board to inspect the ship and passengers, and have much pleasure in stating that we found matters generally in
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a very satisfactory condition. With the exception of a few cases of cutaneous disease in a mild form, and the case of B OK , a single girl who betrayed symptoms of unsound mind during the voyage, the health of all on board has been good throughout. Since landing the immigrants, the above-named female has undergone medical examination before the Magistrates, and has been duly committed to the Provincial Asylum. She is accompanied to the colony by a brother, a single man, M——- OK , farm labourer, who states that he had no knowledge before emigrating of his sister's liability to the malady in question. He is reported to have spoken otherwise on board ship to some of his fellowpassengers, and to have admitted that he was previously cognizant of the fact of B OK 's partial insanity while at home. This he now denies, but there is only too much reason to believe that ne was not altogether ignorant of the girl's condition, and that she was liable to at least occasional mental derangement prior to embarkation. It is to be regretted that there are no available means provided by law for the punishment of frauds of this description, by which the colony is subjected either to heavy permanent charges for maintaining such persons for life, or put to the serious cost of returning them again to the mother-country. The young man OK is not likely to be able to lender much assistance towards his sister's support. The surgeon-superintendent states, with respect to this case, that there were no indications of the girl being subject to mental derangement until after the ship had been nearly three weeks at sea. A letter from him upon the subject will be found attached to this report. There were five births and five deaths during the voyage. The deaths were all of children under two-and-a-half years of age, from ordinary causes. The immigrants, as a body, expressed their entire satisfaction with the treatment they had received during the voyage. The steerage accommodation of this vessel is very superior. We found the several compartments well lighted and ventilated, as also roomy and convenient in an unusual degree. The condition of cleanliness and systematic good order everywhere observable on board reflects the highest credit on Dr. Goode, the surgeon-superintendent, and upon the officers of every class intrusted with the duty of preserving discipline among the passengers. The provisioning and outfit of the ship were excellent in every particular, the supplies of all kinds being abundant and of the best description. We beg to recommend the second officer, James Coppell, for a gratuity of £3, whose activity at all times in rendering assistance to the passengers is highly spoken of by all on board. The conduct of some of the saloon passengers, single men, by this ship, in obstructing discipline among the female immigrants (though we hesitate to recommend a prosecution in their case, owing to their somewhat improved behaviour during the latter part of the voyage), ought not to be altogether overlooked by us. The circumstance points, we think, to the very questionable policy of allowing cabia passengers of this class to proceed to the colony by immigrant ships ; their presence almost invariably proves an element of disorder on board, and adds greatly to the burden of those upon whose shoulders devolves the weighty responsibility of guarding the morals of a large number of young persons of both sexes during a long voyage. The fullest credit is due in this instance to the surgeon-superintendent for his decision in insisting on discipline so far as the circumstances would permit, and also to the captain and ship's officers for their efficient support. We beg to recommend payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent and to the master, mate, and purser. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Bukgess.
No. 29. (No. 275.) The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-G-eneeal. Sib, — Immigration Office, "Wellington, 16th December, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relativo to the " "Waimea," which vessel arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 18th September ultimo: —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 29. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship " "Waimea." Sib,— Port Chalmers, 21st September, 1875. "We have the honor to report that the ship " "Waimea," with immigrants from London, arrived in port on the 18th instant, her passage from Gravesend occupying 91 days. She brought to the colony 324 souls, equal to 267 statute adults. The health of the passengers was exceptionally good throughout the voyage, there being only a few slight cases of whooping-cough among the younger children. Three births and one death occurred. On making the usual inspection, we found every part of the ship in fine order, the several compartments being well kept and well fitted. The provisions were of good quality, and the condenser supplied abundance of water for all purposes. The immigrants were well satisfied with their treatment. Dr. Withers, who visited this port last year as surgeon-superintendent of the ship " Hindostan," was in charge of the immigrants. "We congratulate him on his success on this occasion. Captain Worster and his officers appear to us to have performed their respective duties most satisfactorily. "We recommend that their gratuities be paid to them. "We have, &c, Colin Allan. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Deputy Superintendent of Otago. John Deysdale, M.D.
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No. 30. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the A gent-General. (No. 277.) Sic, — • Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th December, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Duke of Edinburgh," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 17th November ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. 3. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 4. Correspondence and newspaper extracts relating to the surgeon-superintendent. I have approved the recommendation of the Commissioners and his Honor the Superintendent relative to the payment to the surgeon, and I am inclined tq think, from a perusal of the correspondence, that he should not be re-employed. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 30. Cojimissionees' Eepoet on Ship " Duke of Edinburgh." The Commissioners report that they visited the above ship on her arrival on the 17th November. The health of the immigrants was reported as having been good throughout the voyage, only two deatlis having occurred; one of these being of an infant, the other a child under four years of age. The various compartments of the ship were in a very creditable state of cleanliness, those of the married persons and single girls being above the average in that respect: the physique of the immigrants generally was exceedingly good. No complaints were made to the Commissioners as to the conduct of any of thcin. The compartments were arranged according to contract, and the hospital accommodation was ample. The closet in the single females' bath-room had a defect in the outfall pipe being too horizontal, which allowed of water entering from without in heavy weather, and necessitated the closet being shut up during some part of the voyage. The supply of water during the voyage had been sufficient, but the distilijng apparatus was old and had been but imperfectly repaired, and the suctionpipe had been carried too far forward to raise the water properly: this had to be cut and supplemented Dy a piece of indiarubber hose belonging to the ship. There were complaints made throughout the married people's and single men's compartments generally with regard to the unsatisfactory serving out of provisions : this refers mostly to the supply of bread. Under the new scale a certain amount of flour per adult is issued to the baker to be made into bread, and the Commissioners are quite satisfied that on many occasions the amount of bread issued was short —the result of pilfering. Some of the immigrant.-* were detected in the act of stealing bread from the galley on different occasions, and, from the wholesale way in which it is said to have frequently disappeared, there is no doubt that an organized system of theft was going on. A locked place should be provided where the baker could put the bread to cool on taking it from the oven. The issuing of the preserved meat was also complained of, many messes stating that they had received only the allowance for eight adults when there were ten in the mess, and that the balance was not made up to them in after issues. There were also complaints of incivility on the part of the officer issuing the stores. The Commissioners are glad to find that in future no single male passengers are to be taken in the saloons of immigrant vessels, except when members of families also passengers in the ship, as on board the " Duke of Edinburgh " their presence was a source of considerable trouble to the matron, and they are sorry to find that the surgeon-superintendent did not exert himself to prevent intercourse between them and the single females. The Commissioners have carefully read through the surgeon's diary and report, extracts from the matron's diary, reply from the surgeon, and other papers forwarded with this report, and they cannot but give their opinion that the appointment of the surgeon-superintendent was not a judicious one. Although they do not doubt that, suffering as he evidently did severely from sea sickness during a great part of the voyage, he did his best under the circumstances as far as his ability went, they consider that he was not fitted to take charge of immigrants, his diary showing great lack of power of commanding obedience to orders. The Commissioners beg to call the attention of the Minister for Immigration to a side-note appended to the article forwarded from the Timaru Herald. They recommend that tho surgeon-superintendent should receive the usual head-money for the immigrants landed, but no further gratuity; that the officer who issued the stores should not receive gratuity, but that all others should be paid. John W. Rotjse. Feedk. D. Gibson. Lyttelton, 3rd December, 1875. J. E. Maech.
No. 31. The Hon. C. C. Bowen to the Agent-General. (No. 1.) Sic, — Immigration Office, "Wellington, 11th January, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Mataura," which vessel arrived at Nelson upon the Bth August ultimo : —-1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deatlis. I have, &c, C. C. Bowen, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.
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Enclosure in No. 31. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship "Mataura." The "Mataura " left Gravesend on the Sth of August, with 216 souls, equal to 176 adults, and arrived here on the 10th of November, making the passage in ninety-three days. The immigrants were allotted as follows: —To Nelson, 63i adults ; to Taranaki, 30 adults ; to Marlborough, 41 adults ; to Westland, 41J adults. The Commissioners and Health Officer boarded the "Mataura " about five miles from the entrance to the harbour, and found, on going alongside, that there had been several cases of whooping-cough amongst the children during the passage. As most of the sufferers had recovered, and the disease had been prevalent in Nelson only recently, the Health Officer saw no objection to the immigrants being landed. The "Mataura" having no cargo for this port she did not enter the harbour, but landed her immigrants and their luggage the following day by means of a small steamer, —all except those intended for New Plymouth, who were taken from alongside the same evening by the steamer " Taranaki," and landed at their destination the next forenoon. We found the ship in a very satisfactory condition. The fittings were well arranged, except that the sleeping berths next adjoining the sides of the ship were too close to allow of a free current of air inside them. The whole 'tween-decks were exceedingly clean and of good height, and no complaints were made by the immigrants in reply to our inquiries. The children, on the whole, were not so robust as in the two previous immigrant ships, nor were several of their parents constitutionally strong. Many of the children had suffered severely from whooping-cough, and th *r want of stamina had increased the death-roll, which was in excess of that on board previous vessels to Nelson except the " Adamant." The voyage, though not attended with much rough weather, was a severe one, owing to extensive fields of ice encountered by the ship in a low latitude —an experience which befel other vessels about the same time bound to this colony. Excessive cold created great discomfort on board. Several of the children suffered severely from chilblains, from which some have not yet recovered, and one, a boy of about thirteen now in hospital here, will probably have to lose two of his toes. Besides two married women and seven children —equal to 5J adults—four children under a year old died on board*including two prematurely born during the passage. The surgeon-superintendent complains in his journal that in the early part of the voyage the quality of the bread was bad, and thinks thS was in some measure attributable to the use of kiln-dried flour. The intimate connection between sour bread and diarrhoea in children on board immigrant ships makes it important that the flour put on board should be faultless for making wholesome bread. That which we tasted on board after the ship's arrival was fairly good. The surgeon-superintendent also complained of the port wine supplied as a medical comfort, a sample of which is herewith forwarded. It being a well-known fact that much of what is called " port wine " is only a manufactured article, we are of opinion that pure Australian wine would be greatly preferable for medical purposes. The exemplary attention given by the surgeon-superintendent, Dr. Kennedy, to his patients, was testified to by all on board, and should he-seek further employment from Government we recommend that he may be engaged. We feel bound also to commend the conduct of Captain Gorn, who was well supported by his officers. The only complaint against Captain Gorn was his being a strict disciplinarian, but this was only while enforcing rules framed for the comfort and safety of those placed in his charge, as his kindness otherwise was unbounded. An excellent code of rules was framed at the commencement of the voyage, and a copy pasted up in each compartment of the ship, one of which is attached. If a similar practice was observed on board every vessel carrying immigrants it would tend to the safety of life in the event of an accident occurring. Leostaed Booe. James S. Ceoss. Nelson, 20th November, 1875. C. Elliott.
No. 32. The Hon. C. C. Bowen to the Agent-Geneeax. (No. 2.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 11th January, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Avalanche," which vessel arrived in Port Nicholson upon the 3rd December ultimo :—l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, C. C. Bowew, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.
Enclosure in No. 32. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship " Avalanche." SIE — Wellington, 11th December, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Avalanche," with Government immigrants, on the 3rd instant, having on board 186 statute adults. Two deaths occurred during the voyage, both infants. As this is not the first voyage of the ship " Avalanche " to New Zealand with Government immigrants, we do not think it necessary to describe her accommodation, &c. "We have great pleasure in reporting that her condition in all respects was most satisfactory. The happy effect of strict disciplire, enforced with firmness and impartiality, and unaccompanied by harshness, was made
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evident, by the neat and comfortable appearance of the immigrants, and by the unanimous demonstration of approval they made, when asked to give their opinion upon the voyage. From the clean and respectable appearance of these immigrants, and from the testimony given by Captain Williams and Dr. Bligh, we are of opinion that they will prove an acquisition to the colony. The surgeon-superin-tendent (Dr. Bligh), in his report, mentions with warm approval the successful effort made by a lady passenger (Miss Turrell) to sustain the moral tone of the single women : she diligently, punctually, and with great self-sacrifice, devoted over four hours daily to their instruction. Doubtless, the information received and the good impression made will have a lasting and happy influence over many of them, and we respectfully submit that an acknowledgment of these services from the department would be a grateful act. We recommend that all the usual gratuities be paid. We have, &c, Alexandeb Johnston, M.D. John Holliday.
No. 33. The Hon. C. C. Bowen to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 3.) Sin, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 11th January, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Nelson," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 26th December ultimo: —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, <fee, C. C. Bowen, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.
Enclosure in No. 33. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship "Nelson." Sib,— Port Chalmers, 27th December, 1875. We have to report the arrival of the ship " Nelson " in port from Glasgow, on the 26th instant, her passage having occupied eighty-seven days. The number of her emigrants on leaving port was 412 souls, equal to 333 adults. There were seven births and fourteen deaths on the passage, reducing the number to 405 souls, equal to 329 adults. The surgeon reports that the general health of the adult passengers was good throughout the voyage, but the young children, of whom there were 132 under twelve years of age, were less fortunate, bronchitis, diarrhoea, aud consequent debility having cut of£ a larger percentage than usual. The ventilation, which was curried through side scuttles and openings through the deck, appeared to us to be effective. The several compartments were minutely examined, and found in a creditable state of order and cleanliness. The condenser (Chaplin's) did its work well, water for all purposes being abundant. On the usual questions being asked, the immigrants expressed themselves as well satisfied with their treatment. There were no complaints. We are satisfied that the stipulations of the charter-party have been duly fulfilled, and that Dr. Crawford, Captain Leslie, and his officers have performed their several duties very satisfactorily. We have, &c, Colin Allan. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. Wm. Thomson.
No. 34. The Hon. C. C. Bowen to the Agent-"Geneeal. (No. 4.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 11th January, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Waimate," which vessel arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 3rd December ultimo :—l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, C. C. Bowen, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.
Enclosure in No. 34. Commissioneks' Eepoet on Ship " Waimate." Sib, — Port Chalmers, 4th December, 1875. We have the honor to report that the ship " Waimate " arrived from London with Government immigrants on the 3rd instant, her passage from port to port being ninety days. Her immigrants number 341 souls, equal to 293 statute adults. There were two deaths and one birth on the passage,
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the former being infants under one year old. The immigrants arrived in port in good health, and expressed themselves as fully satisfied with their treatmeut on the voyage. On visiting the several compartments of the ship they were found remarkably clean, and exceedingly well ventilated. We have seldom seen a ship arrive in port in finer order. The immigrants appear to be a respectable class, and well adapted to supply the demands of employers of labour. Dr. Welsh, the surgeon-superinten-dent, who visited this port on a former occasion, Captain Peek, and his officers fulfilled their respective duties most satisfactorily. We have much pleasure in recommending the payment of their gratuities. We have, &c, John Detsdale, M.D. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. Colin Allan.
No. 35. The Hon. C. C. Bowen to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 12.) Sic, — Immigration Office,. Wellington, 12th January, 1876. I have the honor to forward the following documents relative to tho ship " Invercargill," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 30th September ultimo: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. These documents have apparently been detained in the Superintendent's office, Dunedin, as they only reached me upon 14th December ultimo. I have, &c, C. C. Bowen, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.
Enclosure in No. 35. Commissionees' Eepoet on Ship " Invercargill." Sic, — Port Chalmers, sth October, 1875. "We have the honor to report that the ship "Invercargill" arrived from Glasgow with Government immigrants on 30th ultimo. Emigrants embarked, 450 souls=37B adults; immigrants landed, 445 souls=377 adults. Four births and eight deaths occurred on the passage, and one death in harbour. A good deal of sickness, principally measles and whooping-cough, prevailed among the children on the voyage, and, there being a number on the sick list at the time, it was thought advisable to place the ship in quarantine until a meeting of the Board of Health was convened to decide upon tho case. The Board having met on the following day, and reports from the Health Officer and the surgeon being read, it was resolved that the single men and single women be at once removed out of the ship, that the married people be kept on board until the clothes of the families who had measles were washed and fumigated, and that on these instructions being carried into effect, to the satisfaction of the Health Officer, the ship would be admitted to pratique on Tuesday, the sth instant. The Health Officer being satisfied that the instructions of the Board were duly attended to, we accordingly admitted the ship to pratique on the sth instant, and the immigrants were removed to the depot at Caversham the same day. The surgeon-superintendent of the ship reported that the general health of the immigrants was good on the voyage. On inspection, we found the ship well fitted in the manner usual in ships sailing from London. The several compartments were very clean and well kept, and the ventilation very good. The provisions were of good quality, and the condenser supplied more than the allowance of water. The immigrants, without exception, expressed themselves satisfied with their treatment. The surgeon, Dr. Martin, and Captain Peacock and his officers, fulfilled their respective duties most faithfully. We recommend the payment of their gratuities. "We have, &c, Colin Allan. John Detsdale, M.D. His Honor the Deputy Superintendent, Otago. Wsi. Thomson.
No. 36. The Hon. C. C. Bowen to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 15.) Sic, — Immigration Office, "Wellington, 13th January, 1876. I have the honor to forward herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Waitangi," which arrived at Port Lyttelton upon the 7th December ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I beg to call your attention to the minute of his Honor the Superintendent of Canterbury upon the Commissioners' report, and also to the statement of the Commissioners, that the latter part of article 7 of the revised charter-party had not been complied with. I have, &c, C. C. Bowen, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.
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Enclosure in No. 36. Commissioners' Hepoet on Ship " Waitangi." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the 7th instant, after a passage of ninety-one days. The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the voyage. There were three births and four deaths (all under two years) during the passage. All the compartments were clean (the single men's unusually so), and the light and ventilation ample. The bath appliances in the single women's compartment had worked very well: care should however be taken that the outfall pipe from the bath or closet should not be in a line.above any of the 'tween-deck ports. The latter part of article 7 of the revised charter was not complied with, as there was no bath-room or requisite appliances for bathing on the upper deck for men. The provisions had been served out in accordance with the dietary scale, the quality was excellent, and no complaints of any kind were made. The immigrants appeared well suited for the requirements of the colony. The Commissioners have much pleasure in recommending the payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeonsuperintendent should he desire it. Wm. Donaxd. John P. Bouse. Feedk. D. Gibson. Lyttelton, 13th December, 1875. J. E. March.
No. 37. The Hon. C. C. Bowen to the Agent-Geneeai. (No. 19.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 13th January, 1876. I have the honor to forward herewith the Commissioners' report upon the ship " Christian McAusland," which arrived at the Bluff upon the 29th August last. This document, unaccompanied by the usual certificates, only reached me upon 14th December, through some official carelessness, into which I am now causing inquiry. I have, &c, C. C. Bowen, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.
Enclosure in No. 37. CoMinssioNEEs' Eepoet on Ship " Christian M'Ausland." Sic, — Immigration Office, Invercargill, 23rd September, 1575. We have the honor to report that the ship " Christian McAusland," from Glasgow, with immigrants, arrived at the Bluff on 29th August. On arriving at the ship we found that there were two cases of scarlatina on board, and the vessel was at once placed in quarantine by the Health Officer. On the 3rd and4th September the single men and single women were forwarded to Invercargill, and the families sent to the Quarantine Barracks at the Bluff. As there had beeu no cases amongst the former, the latter only were kept there, where they still remain. Proper care was taken to fumigate the clothes of the immigrants who were forwarded to Invercargill, and due precautions taken in order to prevent the spread of the disease. The number of immigrants who arrived by the " Christian McAusland" was 330 souls —equal to 276 statute adults. Fourteen deaths and five births occurred during the voyage. Having inspected the ship, we found her, on the whole, well fitted, with the exception of the married people's quarters, where the divisions between the bunks were not sufficiently high to secure privacy. The compartments were clean; and the immigrants expressed the greatest satisfaction with the treatment they received on the voyage. At the time of inspection no complaint was made against the captain or crew; but we are informed by the Immigration Officer that certain charges have been made subsequently against the captain on the ground of intemperance. The matter is being investigated, and will be reported upon by Mr. Pearson, the Immigration Officer. All the officers appear to have been remarkably diligent and efficient in the discharge of their duties. Dr. Simpson was highly spoken of by the captain, officers, and passengers for his remarkable care and attention during the voyage ; and we have confidence in recommending him for future engagement, should opportunity occur. We would call special attention to the chief officer, whose assiduity, care, and attention during the voyage most materially contributed both to the safety of the ship and comfort of the passengers. The provisions were good, and the condenser provided an ample supply of good water. The hospital in the married women's quarters was not, however, well situated, and the " issuing-room" was both too small, and also not in a good position. We have, &c, Walter H. Peaeson. W. P. Geigoe. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. Thos. Thomson.
No. 38. The Hon. C. C. Bowen to the Agent-General (No. 21.) Sib, — Immigration Office, "Wellington, 13th January, 1876. I have the honor to transmit copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Peter Denny," which arrived at the Bluff upon the 26th October ultimo. I may observe that these only 4—D. 3.
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reached me upon the 23rd December:—l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. 3. Copy of a report of an investigation held as to certain charges made against the captain. Although, in consequence of a misconception of his instructions by the local Immigration Officer, the ordinary gratuity was paid, I do not think it at all desirable that this officer should again be employed in command of a ship conveying emigrants to this colony. I have to call your attention to the remarks of the Immigration Officer in his letter forwarding the Commissioners' report, where he sets forth the unsuitability of skilled artizans and mechanics as direct emigrants for the Bluff. I have, &c, C. C. Bowen, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.
Enclosure in No. 38. Commissionees' Eepoet on Ship " Peter Denny." Invercargill, 30th November, 1875. The Commissioners boarded the "Peter Denny" immigrant vessel on the 6th ultimo, and found on inspection that the health of the immigrants during the voyage had*been remarkably good; the deaths, eight in number, resulting from ordinary causes, six of them diarrhoea (infants). The ship was especially clean, and the general requirements as regards space in the various compartments, hospitals, bath-rooms, closets, &c, under the charter, complied with. The distilling apparatus worked well during the voyage. The general conduct of the immigrants appears to have been good. The immigrants appeared to be a superior lot, physically and intellectually, and will doubtless prove a valuable acquisition to the colony. The only complaints were in regard to the quality of the flour, which was not quite as good as it might have been; the want of accommodation for baking, a complaint the Commissioners thought well founded, the oven being certainly too small; and a misunderstanding as to the number of quarts of water to be issued daily, which arose from the issuing officer having considered that while issuing the full complement a portion should be given on behalf of each immigrant to the cook for use in cooking the rations. The total number of adults landed at the Bluff was 211. Some, equal to twenty-seven adults, electing to go to Dunedin, were forwarded by the express steamer. While the Commissioners have much pleasure in recommending the following gratuities to be paid to the officers, constables, &c, all of whom discharged their duties creditably during the voyage, they feel it their duty to state that the captain was evidently suffering from the effects of drink on the day of the arrival of the vessel, and continued so up to the debarkation of the immigrants. We append copy of the report of the surgeon-superintendent of the vessel on this point, furnished at the request of the Immigration Officer, Invercargill, Mr. Pearson. Some of the immigrants, single men, insinuated that the captain had been excited by drink during the voyage, in complaining he had used blasphemous language in their compartment. As regards the other officers of the ship the immigrants spoke in the highest terms of their kindness and attention, and we have much pleasure in recommending for re-employment, should he desire it, Dr. John H. Clarke, the surgeon-superintendent, who, though this was his first trip in that capacity, must have fulfilled his duties with energy, sobriety, kindness, and ability, to have merited the high encomiums he received from those over whom he had exercised supervision. In conclusion, the Commissioners have to call special attention to a singular arrangement in connection with the single women's compartment—viz., that two doors opening into it from the saloon were not boarded up. From inquiry they found that, while one was unused throughout the voyage, the other was simply locked, the captain having possession of the key. That the captain of an immigrant vessel should have it in his power to visit this compartment at any time of the day or night without the cognizance of the surgeon-superintendent, or even matron, is a grave oversight; but when it is considered that it is not an impossible contingency that the key might have been obtained surreptitiously by any of the occupants of the saloon, the gravity of the mistake assumes such importance that the Commissioners cannot but express their surprise that the matter should have been overlooked at the inspection of the ship before leaving Home. As an additional evidence of the impropriety of allowing such ingress to the single women's compartment, we may mention that the door in question opened directly into the hospital, divided from their sleeping compartment by a curtain, while the matron's cabin was at the other end near the proper, and what should have been the only, entrance. The Commissioners have again, as in previous cases, to remark on the insufficiency of the divisions between the married people's bunks, they not being carried up high enough to secure decent privacy. Wm. P. Geigoe, L.E.C.S.E., &c. Tnos. Thomson. The Under Secretary for Immigration, Wellington. Walter H. Peaesox.
No. 39. The Hon. C. C. Bowen to the Agent-Geiteeal. (No. 22.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 13th January, 1876. I have the honor to forward herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Adamant," which arrived at the Bluff upon 3rd December ultimo: —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. 3. Telegram reporting arrival of the ship and death of the captain.
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There are many points in the Commissioners' report which are worthy of your consideration, and I would especially note one subject which in several other cases has been commented upon by these officers—viz., the insufficiency, for purposes of decency, of the divisions between the married people's bunks. I beg that you will bring this specially under the notice of your Despatching Officer, as also the arrangements for the hospitals, which in this ship appear to have been anything but satisfactory. You have probably heard that Captain Birch died on the voyage out. I forward copies of the telegrams advising the arrival of the ship, as they distinctly affirm the cause of death to have been delirium tremens, and, although the Commissioners are strangely reticent upon the subject, I have been informed on the authority of some of the passengers that from the very time of leaving the Channel this unfortunate man was more or less in a state of liquor, and that he kept the ship cruising on and off the coast of Brazil for some weeks, to the general risk of life and property, not to speak of the delay, to which the extra length of the voyage (142 days) may to a great extent be attributable. I have to request that you will communicate upon this matter with Messrs. Shaw, Savill, and Co., and point out to them the necessity for very strict investigation into the character of officers who are intrusted with the command of emigrant ships. This is, as you are aware, not the first case in which persons of other than temperate habits have been placed in such positions of grave responsibility. I have, &c, I C. C. Bowen, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.
Enclosure in No. 39. Commissiouees' Eepokt on Ship " Adamant." Invercargill, 14th December, 1875. The Commissioners inspected the immigrant vessel " Adamant" on the 3rd instant, and found that the health of the immigrants, notwithstanding the length of the voyage, had been good, which may in a large meaaire be attributed to the ample space in each compartment. The ship, considering her age, was very clean in all the compartments, which were all more than ordinarily roomy and airy. The requirements under the charter in regard to hospitals, bath-rooms, closets, &c, were complied with. The condenser answered all requirements during the voyage, the supply of water having been ample. The conduct of the immigrants during the long voyage was very good, and they spoke in terms of praise of the kindness and consideration shown to them by all the officers. The total number of adults landed at the Bluff was 244^-. Nineteen adults were forwarded to Dunedin to join their friends. The Commissioners recommend the usual gratuities should be given to those entitled to them, and in doing so would specially commend, both from what they saw and heard, the acting chief officer (second officer at starting), Mr. James McNeil], and the purser, Mr. ~W. Williams. The latter must have displayed patience, care, and judgment to have given the satisfaction he evidently has done in supplying rations on a voyage some six weeks in excess of ordinary calculation. They would also indorse the recommendation of the acting captain and surgeon-superintendent that gratuities should be given to the assistant matron, Miss S. T. Bervin; assistant nurse, Charlotte Thorns; and ship's steward, Frisby Johnson, who gave material assistance to those invalided by cooking and waiting on them. The Commissioners have again, as in reports on the "Christian McAusland" and "Peter Denny," to call attention to the indecency of the divisions between the married people's bunks, which nothing should excuse. There would have been ample ventilation had the boarding been carried up to within six inches of the deck. "While the space in the single women's compartment was more than usually airy and ample, the Commissioners have to express grave surprise at the arrangements for their hospital accommodation, bath-room, and the position of the matron's cabin. To quote the Despatching Officer's letter to the Agent-General, explanatory of the fitting up of the " Adamant" for the voyage, " The poop is divided by a fore-and-aft bulkhead, the starboard side being allotted to the officers of the ship ; the port side, with the exception of the foremost cabin, which is occupied by part of the crew, being fitted up for hospitals, &c. The stern cabin is divided, part forming an hospital for women, part a bath-room ; next to this is the single women's water-closet, the next cabin is fitted up for a female hospital, and the next is the matron's cabin ; and the means of communication to these is by a ladderway down the companion-hatch; then comes a thwart-ship bulkhead, and before this is the dispensary and male hospital, having an entry from the fore-end of the poop." This arrangement resulted as follows: —The two hospitals were used throughout the voyage by the married women, one being the after-poop cabin. The surgeon-superintendent, having several important cases, principally confinements, requiring his constant attention day and night, had, for convenience, a door cut through the fore-and-aft bulkhead in the poop cabin. This door was supposed to be padlocked on the starboard side, the doctor keeping the key, while the matron had the key of the padlock on the port side. On inquiry, however, it appeared that the husbands of the women in the hospitals were obliged to pass backwards and forwards in attendance on their wives day and night, passing the single women's closet and bathroom, and through the only passage the girls had to get on deck. It is improbable, therefore, that the door of communication with the starboard side of the poop was always locked, unless the doctor and matron were supposed to stand sentry day and night at their respective locks. Thus that strict separation between the single women and the rest of the passengers, contemplated by the charter-party, could not have been maintained. This, in the opinion of the Commissioners, could easily have been managed under a more careful arrangement. The thwart-ships bulkhead should have been placed abaft the matron's cabin, which ought to have been in the compartment with her charges, where there was ample room. The two cabins might then have been left for single women's hospital, bath-room, and closet, and entire privacy been secured. The married women's hospital could have been forward of the thwart-ship bulkhead, in the matron's cabin and male hospital, which should have been 'tween-
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decks, where it always is in other vessels less roomy in their compartments ; and, if required, the dispensary might have been used for a similar purpose, seeing that it is usually 'tween-decks. Then no excuse could have arisen for the doctor to alter the fittings as passed by the Home Commissioners. As it was, the arrangements proved to be the worst which, under the circumstances, could well have been devised for securing isolation for the single women. While on the subject of the arrangement of the single women's compartment, the Commissioners desire to express the opinion that the plan adopted of two women sleeping in one bunk is objectionable, both in a moral and physical point of view, particularly in passing through the tropics. Waltee H. Peaeson. Thomas Thomson. The Under Secretary for Immigration, Wellington. W. P. Geigob.
No. 40. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Ge-nebal. (No. 24.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, Bth February, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship "Auckland," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 27th October ultimo: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, Ac, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 40. Commissioners' Repoet on Ship " Auckland." Sic,— Port Chalmers, 30th October, 1875. We have the honor to report that the ship " Auckland " from the Clyde arrived in port on the 27th instant, having made a passage of 88 days. She brought to the colony 454 souls, equal to 383 statute adults. Three births and seven deaths occurred on the voyage, the latter being children under two years of age, except one female adult who succumbed to consumption on tne morning after the arrival of the ship. Taking into consideration the large number of children on board, there being 135 under twelve years of age, the number of deaths was considerably below the average. On inspection we found the vessel well fitted on the block system, the ventilation very fair, and the compartments pretty clean. The cooking range was equal to its requirements, and the condenser (Chaplin's) supplied more than the full quantity of water for all purposes. The usual questions being put to the immigrants, they acknowledged that they received their rations and water as per contract ticket, and had no complaints to advance. Dr. Stenhouse the surgeon-superintendent, Captain McDougal, and his officers, the schoolmaster, matron, and constables, appear to have performed their respective duties very efficiently and satisfactorily. We recommend that they receive their gratuities in full. We have, Ac, Colin Allan. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. John Detsdale, M.D.
No. 41. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 25.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, Bth February, 1876. I have the honor to transmit the following documents relative to the ship " Zealandia," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 27th October last: —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, Ac, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 41. Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship " Zealandia." Sib,— Port Chalmers, 30th October, 1875. We have the honor to report' that the ship "Zealandia" arrived in port on the 27th instant, her passage from G-ravesend having occupied 102 days. Her immigrants numbered 210 souls, equal to 182 i statute adults. One death, an adult aged thirty-two years, occurred on the passage, the disease being inflammation of the brain. The whole of the immigrants enjoyed excellent health on the voyage, and it redounds to the credit of Dr. Pearde, surgeon-superintendent, who had made several voyages to the colony in charge of emigrants, that on this occasion he came into port without the loss of a single child. We seldom had the pleasure of inspecting a ship in which order and cleanliness were so conspicuous, her 'tween-decks being beautifully white and dry, and the ventilation next to perfect. The ship was also well found both in stores and water, and the immigrants expressed themselves fully
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satisfied with their treatment. The surgeon, Dr. Pearde, Captain Sellars and his officers, performed their respective duties very efficiently. "We recommend that they be paid their gratuities. We have, &c, Colin Allan. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. John Detsdale, M.D.
No. 42. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 26.) Sir, — Immigration Office, "Wellington, Bth February, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith the following documents relative to the ship ""Waitara," which arrived at the Bluff on the 25th December ultimo: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 42. Commissioners' Eeport on Ship ""Waitara." The immigrant ship ""Waitara" arrived at the Bluff Harbour on the afternoon of the 25th ultimoBeing reported clean, she was inspected by the Commissioners on the 27th ultimo. The health of the immigrants during the voyage had been good, no cases of serious illness having occurred. There were two deaths (children), one from convulsions and the other diarrhoea. The compartments were thoroughly clean and airy, the block plan, with passages towards the ship's sides, tending materially to improve the ventilation. All the requirements under the charter as regards hospitals, bath-rooms, closets, &c, were amply complied with. The Commissioners noticed with pleasure that the single women slept in separate bunks, instead of two together, which has hitherto obtained. The divisions also in the mamed people's compartment were boarded up higher than usual, giving greater privacy to each family, though there was room for improvement in this respect. The store-room was large and well situated, and the dispensary in admirable order. The condenser appears to have answered all requirements during the voyage. The conduct of the immigrants during the voyage was reported as having been very good, and they spoke in terms of praise of the conduct of all the officers and surgeon-superintendent. They presented a testimonial, signed by single and married, to the purser, who had evidently been diligent and courteous in the discharge of his duties. The total number of adults landed at the Bluff was 177, of which equal to 24^ were forwarded to their friends in Dunedin per the steamer '' Comerang." The Commissioners have much pleasure in recommending the payment of the usual gratuities to those entitled to them, and in doing so would beg to remark on the superior class of officers in the " Waitara." It is with genuine pleasure and no hesitation that a favourable recommendation can be given in their case. There is little necessity to inquire into the sobriety and efficiency, during the voyage, of such men; their appearance and conduct on entering the port is a sufficient guarantee that their duties had been creditably fulfilled. The Commissioners would strongly recommend the re-employment of Dr. J. H. Boyle as surgeon-superintendent should he desire it, as, in their opinion, he is a credit to the service in which he has been employed. It would be of advantage to the service if men of his stamp were employed, and inferior men, too commonly to be found, rejected. Walter H. Peaeson. Tiios. Thomson. Invercargill, 10th January, 1876. Wm. P. Grigor.
No. 43. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 27.) Sjb,— Immigration Office, "Wellington, 9th February, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Inverness," which vessel arrived at Napier upon the 28th November last: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 43. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship "Inverness." Sib, — Immigration Commissioners' Office, Napier, 12th January, 1876. The Commissioners have nothing particular to report on the ship " Inverness " that arrived in Hawke's Bay in November last. The Commissioners carried out their instructions, and found everything in perfect order, and the whole of the immigrants unanimously pleased with the treatment they
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had received from the captain, doctor, and officers of the ship, and also with the provisions served out to them. I have, &c, Geo. Thos. Fannin, The Under Secretary for Immigration, "Wellington. (for Commissioners).
No. 44. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 30.) Sir,— r Immigration Office, "Wellington, 9th February, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Conflict," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton upon the 29th January ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' Eeport. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c., The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 44. Commissioners' Eepobt on Ship "Conflict." The Commissioners inspected this vessel, eighty-five days out from Belfast, on the 29th .January. They found the various compartments well lighted, ventilated, and arranged, and in a very creditable state of cleanliness. The immigrants were, throughout the ship, well contented with the treatment they had received on the voyage, speaking highly of the captain, surgeon-superintendent, and officers. They appear to be of a very suitable class for the colony, being for the most part considerably above the average in physique, and exceedingly well conducted and respectable in appearance. The condenser, by Chapman of Glasgow, had worked well, and was capable of supplying 250 gallons of water in twelve hours. The provisions had been of first-class quality, and the cooking good, especially the baking. The matron appointed by the Agent-General was found to be inefficient and not trustworthy ; she was disrated by the captain and surgeon when about ten days from England, and Margaret Strain appointed in her place. The Commissioners recommend the payment of all gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent should he desire it. Wm. Donald. John F. Rouse. Lyttelton, Ist Februar)', 1876. Fredk. D. Gibson.
No. 45. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General (No. 48.) Sir, — Immigration Office, "Wellington, 6th March, 187 G. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ': Shakespeare," which vessel arrived in Port Nicholson upon the 23rd December, 1875: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. 8. Letter from his Honor the Superintendent of Westland, reporting the circumstances under which some of the immigrants who had been sent to that province were forwarded on to Jackson's Bay, but refused to land there, and had to be brought back to Hokitika. I have, &c, < The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 45. Commissioners' Kepobt on Ship " Shakespeare." Sib, — Immigration Office, "Wellington, Bth February, 1876. Wo have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Shakespeare " on the 23rd ultimo, with 338 statute adult immigrants from Hamburg. There were three births and two deaths (both infants) during the voyage. In consequence of the surgeon-superintendent reporting that there were cases of typhoid fever at Hamburg when the vessel sailed, and there being a case on board at the time of arrival, and Dr. Uterhart's report showing that there had been several cases throughout the voyage, we considered it advisable to send the vessel and immigrants to the Quarantine Station, in order that they might have an opportunity of cleansing themselves before they were dispersed throughout the colony. On the 28th of January, having satisfied ourselves that our instructions for cleansing the ship had been carried out, we inspected her and found that Captain Jorgensen had faithfully performed the duties required of him, the vessel having been thoroughly fumigated in the 'tween-decks, and painted both inside and out. The single girls' compartment was afr, having a wooden bulkhead fore-and-aft to separate it from the married compartment. The hospital, bath-rooms, &c, were convenient, and the compartment appeared to have been a comfortable and well-ventilated one. The married people had the use of part of the after and main hatches : their compartment was very roomy and well ventilated. Th« bunks were arranged around the sides of the ship : but in our opinion, in which we were supported
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by the surgeon-superintendent and captain, it would have been better if there had been alley-ways in order that the sides of the vessel might be got at to be cleaned. The single men had the use of the main and fore hatches. Owing to the vessel being divided into three compartments by iron bulkheads it was necessary to make fore-ftnd-aft divisions as well as those athwart ships, thus making five compartments instead of three. The galley and condenser were efficient and good, as also was the male hospital, which was on deck. The immigrants were inspected on Somes Island on the 31st: they appeared to be a healthy and robust body of people excepting some of the Italians, who were undersized, and did not appear fitted for very laborious work. The Bohemians also appeared to be a poor illclad class, but fortunately there were not many of them. In conclusion we recommend the payment of all the gratuities, and we have great pleasure in testifying to the very creditable manner in which the immigrants were brought out by Captain Jorgensen and Surgeon-Superintendent Uterhart, —this being the third voyage of the latter gentleman to this colony in medical charge of Government immigrants. "We have, &c, Alexander Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, "Wellington. John Holliday.
No. 46. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 49.) Sic, — _ Immigration Office, "Wellington, 6th March, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of tho following documents relative to the " Hudson," which vessel arrived at Napier upon the 11th February ultimo: —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Surgeon-superintendent's report. I regret that the certified list of births and deaths has not been received from the Immigration Officer. It will be written for and forwarded to you by the first opportunity. You will observe that the surgeon-superintendent in his report remarks upon the inefficiency of the matron, and the bad conduct of the chief officer. According to the recommendation of the Commissioners, the gratuity of the latter has not been paid. "With regard to the minute of his Honor the Superintendent upon the Commissioners' report, I will address you in a separate letter. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 46. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship." Hudson." Sic, — Napier, 24th February, 1876. In accordance with instructions, we surveyed the ship "Hudson" on her arrival in the Ahuriri Eoadstead. The greatest praise is due to Captain Colville and Dr. Pollen for the clean aud healthy manner in which the immigrants were landed. Eepeated cheers were given for both; particularly for Dr. Pollen by the married people. To them and the children Dr. Pollen seems to have paid great, and, from what we should judge from the kind expression of the parents, an incessant attention to the children. The chief officer of the " Hudson" having disobeyed orders in communicating with one of the single girls, his gratuity has not been recommended. The immigrants expressed themselves perfectly satisfied with the provisions provided for them, and the accommodation made in the respective departments of the ship. Four deaths occurred during the passage, and three births. The Commissioners beg to annex copies of testimonials to Dr. Pollen and Captain Colville given by the immigrants. "We have, &c, Geo. Thos. Fannin, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, "Wellington. (pro Commissioners).
No. 47. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 50.) Sic, — Immigration Office, "Wellington, 6th March, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the "Corona," which vessel arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 6th February ultimo:—l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 47. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship " Corona." * Sic, — Port Chalmers, 14th February, 1876. The ship " Corona," with Government immigrants from London, arrived in port on 6th February, having made a passage of ninety-six days. The report handed to us by the captain revealed that
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one case of typhus fever, which proved fatal, occurred on the previous week, and that two cases of typhoid fever were then under treatment in the hospital. On due consideration, we deemed it advisable to place the ship in quarantine, and communicate the facts of the case to the Chairman of the Board of Health. The Board having met on the following day, it was resolved to land all the immigrants on the Quarantine Station for the purpose of washing and fumigating all the clothing in use on the passage, with a view to their early release. It was at the same time resolved that the ship be cleansed and thoroughly fumigated before being admitted to pratique. At a subsequent meeting of the Board, held on the 10th instant, reports'were read from the Health Officer and surgeon-superintendent in charge that the instructions of the Board were being faithfully carried out. It was thereupon resolved that both the ship and the immigrants, with the exception of the sick, be admitted to pratique on Saturday, the 12th instant. The immigrants on that day were removed to Caversham. The ship having been cleared, we made our usual inspection, and found all the compartments in a creditable state of cleanliness, and both well fitted and ventilated. The cooking galley was large and suitable ; and the condenser supplied abundance of good water. "We were well satisfied with all we saw on board, and believe that the provisions of the charter-party and Passengers Act were strictly adhered to. We are also of opinion that Dr. Hoadley the surgeon-superintendent, Captain Strachan, and his officers, fulfilled their respective duties faithfully and attentively, and are entitled to their gratuities. We have, &c, Colin AllaX. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. John Deysdale, M.D.
No. 48. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 54.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, Gth March, 1876. I have the honor to forward herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Jessie Osborne," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton upon the 30th January ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. Complaints having been general amongst the immigrants as to the badness of the bread, owing to the inferiority of the flour and the incompetency of the baker, I have, as in the case of the " Soukar," upon the recommendation of the Commissioners, caused a deduction of £30 to be made from the passage money payable here. 1 may mention that a good deal of trouble has been caused by Messrs. P. Henderson and Co. failing to give proper intimation to the Government in the terms of the charter-party as to their wish with regard to the payment of the second moiety of passage money in respect of this ship. A lengthy correspondence with Mr. C. W. Turner has ended in the money being handed over to that gentleman upon the strength of certain correspondence with Mr. Galbraith and others, of the firm of P. Henderson and Co., forwarded by him for perusal, which leaves no doubt that the intention of the firm was that the money should be so disposed of; but I should be glad if you would point out to Messrs. P. Henderson and Co. the irregularity of such a proceeding. I have, &c., The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 48. Comhissionebs' Repoet on Ship " Jessie Osborne." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the 30th ultimo, after a passage of eighty-five days. On going alongside it was ascertained that a few cases of scarlet fever had occurred on the voyage, one case actually existing. The Health Officer thereupon ordered the ship in quarantine. All the immigrants were landed at Eipa Island, and after the fittings had been removed on shore, and the ship thoroughly fumigated, she was admitted to pratique, and duly inspected. The 'tween-decks were very lofty, and the light and ventilation good. On inspection of the immigrants after they had been released from quarantine, a general complaint was made as to the quality of the bread, the flour being described as very inferior, and the baker incompetent. A sample of the flour shown to the Commissioners bore out the complaint. The flour was stated by the immigrants to have been bad from the commencement of the passage. A letter addressed to the captain, and his reply thereto, are attached to this report. As in a former case (ship "Soukar"), the Commissioners consider that the charter-party was not complied with, and they recommend a deduction of £30 from the second moiety of passage-money. The matron, Miss Yorke, performed her duties in a very efficient manner. The immigrants spoke highly of the kind and attentive treatment they had received from the surgeon-superintendent and officers of the ship. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeonsuperintendent should he desire it. Wm. Donald. John F. Eotjse. Fbedk. D. Gibson. Lyttelton, 11th February, 1876. J. E. Maech.
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No. 49. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the AaENT-GENEEAL. (No. 56.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 7th March, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Otaki," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton upon the Bth February ultimo: —1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. The Commissioners, you will observe, referring to the surgeon-superintendent's report, " strongly recommend that clause 3 should be brought under the notice of the Agent-General, with the view of having direct communication between the single women's compartment and the poop, thus preventing the necessity of their going on the main deck." The importance of this has so often before been pointed out by the Immigration Commissioners at most of the ports, that I am of opinion you should insist upon such an arrangement in all your emigrant vessels for the future, and I shall be glad if you will take the matter into consideration with the view of carrying it into effect. I have, <&c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 49. Commissionees' Eepobt on Ship " Otaki." The Commissioners report the arrival of the above ship on the Bth instant, after a passage of ninety-nine days. The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the voyage. The surgeon reported one birth and two deaths (infants). All the compartments were exceedingly clean, the light and ventilation ample, and the fittings satisfactory. The provisions were of good quality, and no complaints were made. The cooking and condensing apparatus had worked satisfactorily. The appliances in the bath-room in the single women's compartment had also worked satisfactorily, but no bath-room (or any appliances for battling) was provided for men. The immigrants spoke highly of the kind treatment they had received from the surgeon-superintendent, captain, and officers of the ship. The surgeon's report is attached herewith, and the Commissioners strongly recommend that clause 3 should be brought under the notice of the Agent-General, with the view of having direct communication between the single women's compartment and the poop, thus preventing the necessity of their going on the main deck. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent, should he desire it. Wh. Donald. John F. Eouse. Fbedk. D. Gibson. Lyttelton, 10th February, 1876. J. E. Mabcu.
No. 50. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson- to the Agent-General. (No. 57.) Sib, — Immigration Office, "Wellington, 6th March, 1876. I have the honor to transmit copies of the following documents relative to the " Soukar," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton upon the 21th January ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. You will observe that, in accordance with the terms of the new charter-party, the Immigration Commissioners recommended a deduction of £30 to be made from the second moiety of the passage money, on account of the badness of the bread. This recommendation has been carried into effect. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 50. Commissionees' Eepoet on Ship "Soukar." The Commissioners report the arrival of the above ship on the 24th instant, after a passage of one hundred and eight days. The weather was not sufficiently favourable to allow the vessel to call off Timaru. The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the voyage. The surgeon reported four deaths and two births. The compartments were clean, more particularly the single women's, and the light and ventilation ample. The Commissioners were pleased to note that the single women had a direct passage from their compartment to the poop, thus preventing the necessity of their going on the quarter-deck. The provisions had been served out in accordance with the dietary scale, and the quality was good, with the exception of bread. Great complaints were made throughout the ship of the badness of the bread on many occasions during the passage, and the sample shown to the Commissioners corroborated these complaints. One great cause appears to have arisen from the hops put on board for making yeast being stowed in the bakehouse, where they were damaged by salt water, and the baker had to make barm as best he could. The Commissioners are of opinion that proper precautions were not taken in the matter; and, as the conditions of the charter were not complied with, they recommend that the sum of £30 should be deducted from the second moiety of passage money. 5.—D. 3.
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The bath-room in the single women's compartment was satisfactory, and the distilling and cooking apparatus has worked well throughout. The matron performed her duties exceedingly well, and spoke highly of the behaviour of the young women under her charge. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities. Wm. Donald. John F. Rouse. Feedk. D. Gibson. Lyttelton, 31st January, 1876. J. E. Maech.
No. 51. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal., (No. 68.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, Bth March, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Caroline," which vessel arrived at Nelson upon the 13th January ultimo s —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Memorandum by the Immigration Officer, supplementary to the Commissioners' report. 3. Correspondence with the Immigration Officer as to the demands of certain immigrants to be sent on to other ports. 4. Certified list of births and deaths. You will observe that a complaint, which I regret has been somewhat common of late, was made by the immigrants of the bad quality of the bread, and the incompetency of the baker. The Commissioners' report was unfortunately not received until after the payment of the moiety of the passage money, so that I was unable in this case to inflict any fine upon the charterers. The Immigration Officer's memorandum No. 18 explains the circumstances under which he gave the certificate required by the charter-party. I have, Ac, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 51. Commissionees' Eepoet on Ship " Caroline." The ship " Caroline," which left Plymouth on the 12th of August with 321 immigrants, equal to 271 adults, arrived at the outer anchorage on the evening of the 13th January. The Health Officer and Commissioners visited her early on the following morning. We found the state of the ship and the condition of the immigrants in every way satisfactory. Five infants died on the passage, one of whom only was above twelve months old. There had been one birth on board. The ship was commodious and airy, arid the rations had given great satisfaction, with the exception of the bread. Portions of the flour were unfit for use, and the man shipped as baker was incompetent. The journal of the surgeon-superintendent refers again and again to this evil, and to it may reasonably be attributed the diarrhoea which prevailed amongst the children. The supply of water was plentiful. Dr. Scott complained that he found the issuing of stores from 'tweeu-decks a great inconvenience, and that the hatchways were faulty and let water into the married couples' berths. The immigrants were a remarkably fine body, and their robust health showed how well they had been cared for on the passage. The improved dietary introduced last year by Government cannot be too highly commended. We unhesitatingly recommend the full gratuity to all the officers. Leonabd Boob. C. Elliott. James S. Ceoss.
No. 52. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 78.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 9th March, 1876. I have the honor to transmit the following documents relative to the " Hurunui," which vessel arrived in this port upon the 23rd February ultimo:—l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. 4. Correspondence with the master of the ship, and memoranda and other documents connected therewith, relative to the vessel not calling at New Plymouth. 5. Letter from the Superintendent of Taranaki with reference to the immigrants sent on to that province. I regret very much that the ship was unable to disembark her passengers at New Plymouth, as it would appear she would have been able to do so had the captain, with a more intimate knowledge of the weather upon the coast, decided to stand off and on for the night, instead of running for Wellington ; but you will observe that the opinion of Captains Edwin and Johnson justifies the course he adopted under the circumstances. You will observe, further, that no expense was entailed upon the Government by the ship coming on, as the New Zealand Shipping Company conveyed free to New Plymouth such immigrants as it was decided should be sent there. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Axkinscn.
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Enclosure in No. 52. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship "Hurunui." Sib,— Wellington, 2nd March, 1876. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Hurunui " on the 23rd February, with 184 statute adult immigrants engaged for the Province of Taranaki. There were five deaths, equal to one statute adult, and four births during the voyage. Early on the morning of the 24th we inspected the vessel, and found all the compartments in good order and clean. The single women were berthed under the after hatch; they had abundance of light, ventilation, and space, the bunks being in blocks, with alley-ways around the sides of the ship. The hospital and bath-room were good, the latter being a permanent fixture for the use of saloon passengers when carried by the vessel. The married people had the use of the main hatch, the compartment being roomy and comfortable, and the bunks arranged as in the single women's compartment. The hospital and dispensary under the main hatch were both roomy and convenient. The single men were berthed under the fore hatch, their compartment also being a roomy and comfortable one, with plenty of light and ventilation. There was also a convenient hospital for males on deck. The whole arrangements on board the " Hurunui" were of a highly efficient character, she having been fitted specially for the immigration trade, thus having many improvements which are not usually met with in vessels of her class. On Saturday, the 26th February, the immigrants were all disembarked, 107 statute adults being forwarded direct to New Plymouth, and the remainder landed in Wellington. We desire to direct attention to the case of a single woman who is reported by the surgeon as having been delivered of a still-born child on the 10th February. This girl is coloured, apparently being an African, and should not, in our opinion, have been sent out as a free immigrant. In conclusion, we recommend the payment of the usual gratuities, the immigrants, upon being questioned, not having made any complaints against either the captain, surgeon, or officers of the vessel; but, from what we have seen and heard of the surgeon-superintendent since his arrival, we regret that we do not feel justified in recommending him for re-employment in the immigration service of the colony. We have, &c, Alexander Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Hollidat.
No. 53. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 85.) Sir, — Immigration Office, Wellington, sth April, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents, relative to the ship "Wellington," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 19th of March ultimo:—l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 53. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship "■Wellington." Sin, — Immigration Office, Dunedin, 21st March, 1876. We have the honor to report that the ship " Wellington " arrived in port from the Clyde on the 19th instant, her passage from port to port being ninety-four days. Her immigrants number 226| adults, thirty-eight being nominated in the province and despatched by the Agent-General, and 212J being selected and despatched by the Agent in Scotland of the Provincial Government. There were two births and four deaths on the voyage: of the latter there was one adult who died of pulmonary consumption, and three were infants, who succumbed to diarrhoea and convulsions. On arriving at the ship, the health report was handed to us, in which we found that four cases of typhoid or enteric fever occurred on the passage among the married people, three of the patients having completely recovered, and one being then in hospital in a convalescent state. Dr. Bogers, the surgeon-superintendent, at the same time reported that the health of the immigrants was all that could be desired, and that there was not at that time a single case of sickness on board, with the exception of the enteric fever case. Having made the usual inspection, we found the ship well fitted and ventilated, and it was evident that cleanliness in the several compartments was insisted upon and well carried out. Disinfectants were also liberally used. The immigrants were well satisfied with their treatment on the voyage; both the provisions and water were sufficient and good in quality. We feel it due to the surgeon-superin-tendent, Dr. Rogers, Captain Cowan, and his officers, to state it as our opinion, from what we saw and heard, that no exertion was spared by them in rendering the passengers comfortable and happy. We have, &c, Colin Allan. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. Wm. Thomson,
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No. 54 The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 90.) SlE >— Immigration Office, Wellington, sth April, 1876. . . 1 . f; ye *c nonor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship "Eangitikei," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton upon the 16th February ultimo:—l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 54 Commissionees' Eepoet on Ship " Eangitikei." The Commissioners report the ai-rival of this ship on the 16th instant, after a passage of seventy-three days. The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the passage. The compartments were clean, and the 'tween-decks lofty and well ventilated. The provisions had been served out satisfactorily, and in accordance with the dietary scale, and no complaints were made of any kind. The distilling and cooking apparatus worked well. The plumbing work in the single women's water-closet did not work well, and the approach to the 'tween-deck hospitals was very narrow, and very awkwardly arranged, almost preventing access in cases of accident, being situated immediately at the foot of two companionladders, which occupied the two sides of a well, the third side of which formed the entrance to the storeroom. The surgeon-superintendent's report is attached herewith. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent should he desire it. "W. Donald. Fbedk. D. Gibson. John F. Eoitse. Lyttelton, 28th February, 1876. J. E. Maech.
No. 55. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 99.) Sic,— Immigration Office, "Wellington, 6th April, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith the following documents relative to the " Salisbury," which vessel arrived at Auckland upon the 27th February ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Correspondence with regard to complaints of the surgeon-superintendent respecting certain occurrences during the voyage. 4. Correspondence upon the subject of the reported neglect of boat and fire drill, and the weekly muster of the emigrants. 5. Certified list of births and deaths. Although the Commissioners' report is on the whole satisfactory, you will observe that the surgeonsuperintendent makes certain definite complaints as to the arrangements on board this ship, which will no doubt meet with due consideration at the hands of your Shipping Officer. There is only one point upon which I think it necessary to specially remark — i.e., the flimsy character of the bulkheads dividing the hold from places accessible to the crew at night—resulting, according to Dr. Cartwright's statement, which is not denied by the captain, in broaching of the cargo at the imminent risk of the lives of all on board. I should have supposed that the fate of the " Cospatrick," attributed to this very cause by the Board of Trade, would have induced your Despatching and Inspecting Officers to have insisted upon substantial partitions being erected, so as to render it impossible, except with such violence as would lead to immediate detection, for the men to break through. I must ask you to inquire thoroughly into this matter, and report to me the name of the officer responsible in the case of this ship ; and in future you will please direct that a special report upon the condition of the bulkheads separating the hold from places accessible to the crew and emigrants in each ship be made to you previous to the embarkation of the passengers. It appears to me clear, from the correspondence enclosed, that very bad blood existed between the captain and surgeon-superintendent, but I did not deem the charges made by the latter officer sufficiently substantiated in some cases, or grave enough in others, to justify the withholding the captain's gratuity. I however caused him to be informed that I was not satisfied with his having organized the system of fire-drill without ever putting it in practice, nor with his explanation as to the neglect pf mustering the emigrants and crew. I have now directed a special report upon these two most important matters to be made to me by the Immigration Commissioners with regard to every emigrant ship arriving in the colony, and I desire that you will, in your instructions to captains, insert a clause requiring that regular practice in fire-drill be carried out, and that the emigrants be mustered at certain fixed periods, of course weather permitting. Surgeon-superintendents should be also instructed to enter in their daily journal the exercise of the crew and emigrants at fire-drill and the muster of the emigrants. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
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Enclosure in No. 55. Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship " Salisbury." ' Sib, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 2nd March, 1876. We have the honor to report the arrival of the " Salisbury " on the 27th ultimo, ninety-seven days from London, with 309 Government immigrants. The usual inspection of the ship and passengers took place the following day, and the immigrants were landed in the afternoon. No infectious disease was known during the voyage. Some of the children were slightly affected with whooping-cough, and thero were a few cases of ophthalmia. A single woman, ill of pneumonia, was ordered to be sent to the hospital. A single man, named T- H -, suffering from heart disease, was found among the immigrants, notwithstanding that he had been rejected by the Home medical authorities, and was sent on shore in consequence at Gravesend. This is the case which we have seen referred to in a letter by the Agent-General to the Hon. the Minister for Immigration, No. 890. No special blame appears to be attached to any one on account of this man's surreptitious re-embarkation, so far as we have been able to ascertain : at the same time we wish to say that it is of great importance that the utmost diligence be exercised by ships' officers and others connected with the embarkation of immigrants, to guard against a repetition of such an occurrence. We found the ai'rangements on board the "Salisbury" generally satisfactory. The several compartments of the immigrants were sufficiently roomy, and were well lighted and ventilated. All the people expressed themselves well satisfied with the treatment they had received. The surgeon-superintendent made a complaint with respect to inattention on the part of some of the immigrants to his instructions in the matter of coming upon deck when required to do so, with a view to the proper ventilation of the compartments. He complained, also, that persons had been guilty of broaching cargo during the voyage, but, on being invited to do so, he was not prepared to charge any one definitely with these offences. The captain had no complaint to make on the subject of broaching cargo either by immigrants or crew. The general conduct of the passengers was well spoken of, both by the doctor and the ship's officers. The provisions of all kinds were of the best quality, and the supply appears to have been abundant. In regard to the medical comforts, the doctor complained that in some instances the full quantities were not supplied when ordered for the use of the invalids ; but no adequate attempt appears to have been made on his part to remedy the alleged grievance at the time. No complaint was made to the captain on the subject. Dr. Cartwright was invited to forward to the Immigration Officer, in writing, without delay, for transmission to the Hon. the Minister, any statement he might wish to make on any matter connected with his duties as late surgeon-superintendent; but he has not done so up to this date. In conclusion, we beg to recommend payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeonsuperintendent and the ship's officers. We have, &c, H. Ellis. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. T. M. Philson, M.D.
No. 56. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 107.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 28th April, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Gutenburg,""*ftrhich vessel arrived at Wellington upon the 27th March ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners'report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 56. Commissioners' Report on Ship " Gutenberg." Immigration Office, Provincial Buildings, Wellington, Sic,— 27th March, 1870. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Gutenberg " on the 23rd instant, with 164 souls, equal to lloi adults, consisting of Italians, Switzera, Swedes, Danes, and Germans, who sailed from Hamburg on the 18th December last. One birth and no deaths amongst the immigrants occurred during the voyage. On inspecting the immigrants we found that generally they were a healthy and robust body of people, with the exception of the Italians, many of whom were undersized, and, in our opinion, unfitted for the laborious work required of immigrants introduced to this colony. The single women's comportment was under the fore-part of the poop, and was roomy, comfortable, and well ventilated. The married people had the use of the after and main hatches. Their compartment was also in every way a suitable one: the bunks were around the sides of the ship, with a wide passage through the centre of the compartment; the combings and booby-hatch over the afterentrance were high and safe, while there was a good permanent deck-house over the main hatch. The ladders were rather too steep, however, and should have had boards at the back, as in English vessels. The single men were located under the fore-hatch, their bunks being arranged as in the married compartment. There was an open bulk-head between their compartment and that of the married people, and upon our pointing out the indecency of such an arrangement we were informed that the Agent at Hamburg insisted upon the bulk-head being left open for the purpose of ventilation. The male and
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female hospitals were both on deck, and were roomy and comfortable. The dispensary, however, which was under the poop, was small, inconvenient, and badly lighted. The galley and condenser were good, and sufficient for the requirements of the immigrants. We append an extract from the diary of the surgeon-superintendent, from which it appears that the Italian portion of the single men were an undesirable body of people, and that throughout the voyage they caused a great deal of trouble. We informed the captain and surgeon that, if they desired to prefer specific charges against particular individuals, proceedings would be instituted against them , but they declined doing so as their trouble had ended. It is also reported that several people who were , berthed amongst the married immigrants are not married, they having lived together before applying to the Agent for a free passage. In conclusion, we recommend the payment of all gratuities, aud we desire specially to bring under your notice the services of Dr. Evers, who appears to have been unremitting in his attention to the immigrants under his charge, although seriously indisposed himself during the greater part of the voyage. Captain Bockwoldt and his officers also appear to have cordially co-operated with the surgeonsuperintendent in the performance of their duties. We have, &c, Alexander Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Holltdat.
No. 57. The Hon.'H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 110.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, Ist May, IS7O. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Waipa," which vessel arrived at Wellington upon the 2nd April ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. 3. Eeport upon the case of X McD . The Commissioners' report does not appear to call for any particular remarks; but with regard to X McD , inquiry should be made into the circumstances under which this person was approved as a free emigrant. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 57. Commissioners' Eepoht on Ship "Waipa." Sib, — Wellington, 10th April, 1876. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship "Waipa" upon the 2nd instant, with 217 souls, equal to 178 statute adults. There were two births, and we are pleased to report no deaths during the voyage. The vessel and immigrants were inspected the following day, the latter being all landed or forwarded to their destinations at once. The single men were berthed in the fore-part of the ship : their compartment was clean and well ventilated, with plenty of accommodation for the small number in it—viz., 33 adults. The married compartment was under the main hatch, and was equal to the requirements of the immigrants, having plenty of ventilation. The single women were aft: their compartment was a good one, but it appeared to us to be rather dark. No complaint w;as, however, made to us in that respect. The bath-room and water-closet were very convenient, being permanent saloon fittings. Taking everything into consideration, the " Waipa " is a convenient vessel for emigrants, having high hatchway combings, good ventilation, &c, the only objection to her being that she is rather hampered with deck-houses. In our opinion, the hospital arrangements were not good. There was only one hospital on deck, and that was so near the galley and condenser that it would have been useless in cases of fever. The other two hospitals were in the 'tween-decks. This we have always considered to be undesirable, but in this vessel they were anything but convenient. Fortunately, there was so little sickness during the voyage that there was no great tax upon the hospital accommodation. We append a summary of the voyage by the surgeon-superintendent, and we desire to call attention to his remarks with reference to the crew. Frequent reference is-made to this subject throughout his diary, and it would appear that a great deal of trouble, if not absolute risk, was caused by their conduct. Five of the ringleaders were proceeded against before the Resident Magistrate, but the cases were dismissed through some legal technicality. Boat and fire drill were carried on whenever practicable, but the surgeon reports that the instructions, which were posted up in the forecastle, were obliterated by being painted over. Attention is also directed to the case of X McD , who is reported to be suffering from " dementia." It appears that this girl's state was reported to the Agent-General before she left the depot at Blackwall. In conclusion, we have much pleasure iv recommending the payment of all gratuities, and in stating that both the captain and surgeon-superintendent appear to have worked cordially together for the benefit of the emigrants under their charge, which is shown by the fact that the " Waipa " arrived without a single death, although there were a large number of children on board. We have, &c, Alexandeb Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Hollidat.
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No. 58. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the A gent-General. (No. 113.) Sir, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 2nd May, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relating to the " Brodick Castle," which vessel arrived at Auckland upon the 24th March ultimo:—l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Report upon the exercise in fire-drill and the regular mustering of the emigrants during the voyage. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. With reference to my letter No. 99, of the 6th ultimo, in which I pointed out the necessity of the instructions to masters and surgeon-superintendents being amended in the direction of affording more definite information with regard to their duties in respect of the fire-drill, I desire that you will, as soon as possible, send me copies of the instructions so amended. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure 1 in No. 58. Commissioners' Report on Ship "Brodick Castle." Sir, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 28th March, 1876. We have the honor to report the arrival of the " Brodick Castle," from London, on the 24th instant, 100 days out, with a nominal roll of 273 Government immigrants. We proceeded to inspect the ship and passengers the same day, and are happy to be able to report favourably of the cleanliness and general good order which appear to have prevailed on board throughout the voyage. Three deaths occurred among the immigrants, comprising a single female named,H. W., whose family also was on board, and G. and E. McG. (infants), the former of rheumatic fever and heart disease, and the latter of consumption. There were no births. No infectious disease was known throughout the voyage, and very little sickness of any kind. Two or three single men are, at present, indelicate health, owing to colds and slight attacks of bronchitis, from the effects of which they have not yet fully recovered. The accommodation for immigrants which this ship affords is of a superior class, as respects room, light, and ventilation. The arrangements generally were very satisfactory, and the provisions of all kinds, including the supply of water and medical comforts, were both abundant and of excellent quality. Notwithstanding, there was, we were informed, very frequent miscarriage in the baking department, either owing to want of tact, or to inexperience on the part of the persons engaged from time to time as immigrants' baker. The immigrants themselves made no complaint upon the subject, but the fact was brought under our notice by the captain and the surgeon-superintendent. Everything appears to have been done that could be accomplished to remedy the evil, by chauging the baker on several occasions, both before leaving England and during the voyage, but with very limited success. The flour was of average good quality. The immigrants expressed themselves well satisfied on the whole with their treatment on board, while their own conduct in general is spoken of favourably by the surgeon and ship's officers. A breach of the 25th section of the charter-party appears to have taken place, inasmuch as there was a single man among the saloon passengers, named G. H., unconnected with any of the married families on board. The captain and the ship's agents here are unable to give any explanation of this, or to state by what means the irregularity in this instance escaped the attention, apparently, of the Despatching Officer in London. No complaint was made to us arising out of this circumstance, and the conduct oLthe saloon passenger in question is reported to have been unexceptionable. We beg to recommend payment of the visual gratuities to the ship's officers and the surgeonsuperintendent. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Burgess.
Enclosure 2 in No. 58. The Immigration Commissioners, Auckland, to the Under Secretary for Immigration. Sir, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 30th March, 1876. Referring to your Memo. No. 72, of the 20th instant, on the subject of fire-drill on board immigrant ships, and to the duty of mustering the passengers, in accordance with the instructions contained in the Queen's Order in Council, we have the honor to report, in the instance of the " Brodick Castle," that on due inquiry we ascertained that fire practice was regularly attended to once a week when weather permitted, so far as the ship's company was concerned, but not as respects the immirants. Captain Thyne explained that, the crew, numbering about sixty hands, being somewhat refractory during the voyage, he deemed it inexpedient to bring the men into contact with the immigrants at fire-drill. He stated, moreover, that he was not aware that he was required by the regulations to exercise the passengers in the manner referred to, otherwise, he admitted, he might have made a selection from among the immigrants for this purpose. We notice that it is intended to issue more definite instructions upon this subject to captains of immigrant ships.
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The passengers were regularly mustered on board the " Brodick Castle " during the voyage, in accordance with the Queen's Order in Council of the 7th January, 1864. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. The Under Secretary for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Burgess.
No. 59. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to' the Agent-G-eneeal. (No. 118.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 2nd May, 1876. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relating to the ship " Pomona," which vessel arrived at the Bluff upon the 14th ultimo: 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths during the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 59. Commissioned' Eepobt on Ship " Pomona." The immigrant ship "Pomona" arrived at the Bluff Harbour on the afternoon of the 14th instant. Being reported clean she was inspected on the loth instant. The health of the immigrants during the voyage appears to hare been singularly good, which was fortunate, as the surgeon-superintendent, Dr. James O'Brien, died on the 7th March, and indeed, from what could be gathered on this point, was ill when he went on board to take charge. There were only two deaths —a child under twelve months, from diarrhoea-, and the doctor from consumption. The compartments were clean and airy. The requirements under the charter as regards hospitals, baths, closets, &c, were complied with, though the fixings were not so satisfactory as in the " Waitara ;" and the Commissioners have again to notice that the divisions between the bunks in the married people's compartment were not sufficiently high to secure decent privacy, and that the single women slept two in a bunk instead of separately, the impropriety of which arrangement has been pointed out in previous reports. The block system of laying off the sleeping bunks was adopted in the " Pomona," and consequently the ventilation was good. The store-room was commodious and well placed. The dispensing of the stores gave satisfaction during the voyage. The supply of water was ample, and the condenser had worked well. The arrangements in connection with cooking the food, baking, &c, were remarkably good. The conduct of the immigrants in each compartment had been very good. There were no complaints made against the conduct of the officers of the ship : all the immigrants expressed themselves thoroughly satisfied with their treatment, and in terms of praise of the captain. The total number landed at the Bluff was 143 souls, equal to 129| adults, the balance, as per statement annexed, electing to go on to Dunedin in the ship —namely, 20 souls, equal to 18 adults. The Commissioners have much pleasure in recommending the payment of the usual gratuities to the captain, officers, constables, &c, entitled to receive them, and cordially accede to the recommendation of the captain, in the absence of the surgeon-sunerintendent, that an extra sum of ijl should be paid to the matron, Mrs. M., who appears to have been more than ordinarily fitted for the discharge of her responsible and onerous duties ; as also the sum of £2 extra to the surgeon's assistant, who appears from the first, owing to the doctor's illness and subsequent death, to have had a large degree of responsibility^ thrown upon him, and to have acquitted himself admirably in its discharge. The Commissioners desire to express their satisfaction with this shipment of immigrants, who appear physically and morally to be a valuable addition to the population, one which promises to fulfil in a greater degree than ordinarily the requirements of the colony. We have, &c, Wm. P. Gtrigob. Thos. Thomson. Invercargill, 25th April, 1876. Walter H. Pearson.
No. 60. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 123.) Sir, — Immigration. Office, "Wellington, 3rd May, 1876. I have the honor to forward copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Terpsichore," which arrived at Wellington upon the 18th March ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Letters of immigrants and constables making certain complaints, with remarks of the captain and surgeon-superintendent thereupon. 4. Certified list of births and deaths. You will note that the Immigration Commissioners ascribe the acceleration of the disease (typhoid fever) on board this ship to the bad quality of the provisions and water supplied to the emigrants; and, after very careful consideration of the facts of the case, so far as they can be ascertained from the
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Immigration Commissioners and the statements of the surgeon-superintendent and captain, I have come to the conclusion to enforce the penal clause of the charter-party, and to deduct from the amount payable to the agents of the ship in the colony the sum of £500, being, as nearly as can be calculated, the expense which has been incurred by the Government in the quarantining the ship, and the loss to the colony of the emigrants who died on board and in quarantine. In taking this action, I am taking it for granted that the terms of the charter-party of the " Terpsichore " are identical with those of the original contract with Louis Knqrrand Co., as, in reply to my application to you for a copy of the last German contract, you forwarded, under date 24th December, 1874, a copy of the original articles of agreement, dated 17th February, 1872; and on my calling your attention to this in letter No. 72, of 11th March, 1875, you contented yourself with a simple acknowledgment, from which I understand that the existing contract is identical with the original. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 60. Commissioners' Eepout on Ship "Terpsichore." Sin,— Wellington, 12th April, 1876. Wo have the honor to report the arrival of the ship "Terpsichore" on the 18th March, with 380 souls, equal to 818$ statute adults. There were, unfortunately, eight deaths, equal to six statute adults, dating the voyage, all from typhoid fever, and, as there were upwards of a dozen cases under treatment for this disease at the time of arrival, wo had no alternative but to place the vessel in quarantine ; and since the immigrants have been landed at the Quarantine Station three adults have died, one being the result of an accident, and the other two from typhoid. On the 27th, the vessel having been thoroughly cleansed and disinfected, the 'tween-decks being limewashed throughout, we inspected her and admitted her to pratique. The fittings having been all landed at the Quarantine Station before our inspection, we are unable to give a detailed account of the arrangements in the 'tween-decks, but from what we could learn from the surgeon and captain we make the following observations :—The hospital under the poop for females was roomy and well ventilated ; there was no dispensary, however, which was found to be inconvenient. The single girls were berthed in the after part of the 'tween-decks, having the use of the starboard side of the after hatch ; there was plenty of light and ventilation in the compartment. The married people had the use of the port side of the after hatch as well as the main hatch, their bunks being against the side of the ship. There were good deckhouses over each hatchway. The single men were forward, and had a good compartment. The male hospital on deck was roomy and convenient, but the galley and cooking arrangements generally were insufficient. The 'tween-decks of the " Terpsichore " being so lofty and well ventilated in every respect, we were at a loss to account for the great amount of disease on board: we fear however that it is in a great measure attributable to the quality of the provisions and water supplied by the contractor in Hamburg. A sample of biscuit has been submitted to us, and we have no hesitation in saying that it is quite unfit for food. We append hereto the following documents relating to complaints made by some of the emigrants against the captain and surgeon-superinteudent, together with the replies of those officers, viz.:— 1. Memorial to the New Zealand Government by certain immigrants (with translation). 2. Complaints by the constables (with translation). 3. Remarks by Captain Koehler uj)on above (with translation). 4. Remarks by Surgeon-Superintendent Buchner upon above. 5. Instructions issued by the surgeon and captain to the passengers during the voyage (with translation). 6. Official report of the surgeon-superintendent. With reference to the complaints of the immigrants against the surgeon and captain, after what we have seen and heard of those officers, we consider them unfounded. With regard to Dr. Buchner, we have frequently remarked, during the time he has been in charge at the Quarantine Station, that ho has conducted his business systematically and with a good deal of judgment and professional skill. Captain Koehler also, while his vessel was lying at the Quarantine Station, met our wishes in every way, under very great disadvantages owing to the state of the weather and the conduct of his crew. We can readily imagine that a great deal of discontent existed on board when it is considered that the immigrants were composed of nations several of whom bear a great deal of ill-will towards each other; and when disease broke out, and the immigrants had provisions of bad quality issued to them, it is natural to suppose that they would attribute all their misfortunes to those who had authority over them. As the agents of the " Terpsichore" have a claim against the Government on account of passage money, amounting to £2,150, we recommend that a sum sufficient to cover the quarantine expenses incurred by the Government should be deducted from that sum, as it is evident that the disease was accelerated by the bad quality of the provisions, even if it is not directly attributable to that cause. In conclusion, we recommend the payment of all the gratuities, especially as, in our opinion, both Captain Koehler and Surgeon-Superintendent Buchner acted to the best of their judgment and ability for the benefit of the immigrants, under very trying circumstances which they could not control. We have, &c, Alexandeb Johnston, M.D. .TonN Holiidat. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. H. J. H. Eliott. 6.—D. 3.
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No. 61. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Aoent-Geneeal. (No. 132.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 29th May, 1876. I have the honor to forward herewith copy of the Immigration Commissioners' report upon the ship " Caitloch," w^ich arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 30th April ultimo. In accordance with your letter to Captain Phillips, of 31st January, a gratuity of £25 has been paid to that officer. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 61. ComiissiONEßs' Kepoet on Ship "Caitloch." Sin,— Port Chalmers, 2nd May, 1876. The ship " Caitloch " arrived in Port from London on the 30th April, having made a passage of eighty-four days. There were twenty-three single men for the province of Canterbury on board, for whom the ship i: Countess of Kintore " had no room. Having made the usual inspection, we found the accommodation provided for these immigrants in the fore part of the 'twecn-decks properly fitted and sufficiently ventilated. The immigrants arrived in good health, and expressed themselves as fully satisfied with their treatment on the voyage. They speak in the highest terms of Captain Phillips's kindness and attention to them, and, taking into consideration that be had to act the part of a medical man during the voyage, we would recommend that he be paid a gratuity commensurate with the duties he had to perform. We have, &c, Colin Allan. John Detsdale. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. Wm. Thomson.
No. 62. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent- Genebal. (No. 133.) Sic,— Immigration Office, Wellington, 29th May, 1876. 1 have the honor to transmit the following documents relative to the ship " Fernglen," which arrived at Nelson upon the 21st April ultimo : —l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeonsuperintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. 4. Letters from the Immigration and Health Officers at Hokitika, noting the satisfactory appearance of the immigrants landed there. I have, Ac, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 62. Commissionebb' Kepobt on Ship "Fernglen." Sic,— Nelson, sth May, 1876. We have the honor to report the arrival, on the 21st April, of the ship "I'ernglen," 818 tons, W. Frazer, master, having sailed from London on 18th January, with 189 souls on board, equal to 162 statute adults. One birth occurred during the voyage. There has been no sickness. The immigrants speak in the highest terms of the treatment they have received at the bands of the captain, the surgeon in charge (Dr. Haines, late of H.M.s. " Basilisk"), and all the officers. This is the best-found ship that has arrived at this port with immigrants, being light, roomy, dry, and cleanly, much of the latter being due to the keeping a passage free between the berths and the sides of the ship—provisions ample in quantity and of superior quality, the supply of water almost unlimited. One case of lunacy, a married man with a family, was under treatment: soon after the vessel anchored he jumped overboard and would have lost his life, had it not been for the gallant conduct of Dr. Haines, who plunged in and kept him afloat by the aid of a buoy, till a boat was lowered to his assistance. This act, occurring at the outer anchorage, five miles from shore, on a rough day, was at imminent risk of his own life, and to which we beg to draw special attention. No organized fire-drill had been carried out during the voyage. We have, &c, Leonabd Boon. James S. Cboss. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, C. Elliott.
No. 63. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 144.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 2nd June, 1876. I have the honor to transmit copies of the following documents, relative to the ship " Countess of Kintore":—l. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Eeport of the surgeon-superintendent. 3. Certified list of the births and deaths.
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D.—B
I desire to call your special attention to the very valuable suggestions of Dr. Davison in his report. An extract from this relating to the subject of fire, and in connection therewith the use of unprotected lamps by the crew, I have directed to be brought under the notice of the manager of the New Zealand Shipping Company. I have, &c, The Agent-G-eneral for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.
Enclosure in No. 63. Commissioners' Eepobt on Ship " Countess of Kintore." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the 29th ultimo, after a passage of eighty-seven days. On going alongside, the surgeon-superintendent reported that there had been twenty-four cases of measles and one case of scarlet fever during the passage. The Health Officer thereupon ordered the ship in quarantine. The immigrants were accordingly landed at Eipa Island, but no fresh case of sickness occurred during the detention. On being released from quarantine the usual inspection was made. The immigrants spoke in high terms of the kind treatment they had received from the surgeon-superintendent and officers of the ship. The provisions had been served out regularly, the quality was good, and no complaints of any kind were made. The condenser was defective, and unable to make the quantity of water required by the charter: this was chiefly through the pipes being old ones and continually out of order. The matron, Mrs. Clark, performed her duties in a very efficient manner. The regulations respecting boat and fire drill had been carefully complied with. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent, should he desire it. Wm. Donald. Fbedk. D. Gibson. John F. Bouse. Lyttelton, 15th May, 1876. J. E. Maech. By Authority : Gkoegb Didbbuet, Government Printer.—lB76. Price 2b.]
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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1876-I.2.1.5.3
Bibliographic details
IMMIGRATION TO NEW ZEALAND. (LETTERS TO THE AGENT-GENERAL TRANSMITTING REPORTS UPON IMMIGRANT SHIPS.), Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1876 Session I, D-03
Word Count
33,360IMMIGRATION TO NEW ZEALAND. (LETTERS TO THE AGENT-GENERAL TRANSMITTING REPORTS UPON IMMIGRANT SHIPS.) Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1876 Session I, D-03
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