LUNATIC ASYLUMS IN NEW ZEALAND, (REPORTS ON THE)

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1876 Session I, H-04

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1876. NEW ZEALAND.

LUNATIC ASYLUMS IN NEW ZEALAND, (REPORTS ON THE)

Presented to both Souses of the General Assembly by Command of Sis Excellency.

AUCKLAND. No. 1. Mr. Mobpi.th to the Pbovincial Seceetaey, Auckland. Sib, — Ponsonby, Auckland, sth February, 1876. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 3rd instant, received by me yesterday, and, in compliance with your request, beg to enclose the half-yearly statement under section 60 of " The Lunacy Act, 1868," namely, from 30th June, 1875, to 31st December, 1875. I have, &c, H. D. Moepeth, The Provincial Secretary, Auckland. Inspector of Provincial Lunatic Asylums. Half-Teablt Statement under Section 60 of "The Lunatics Act, 1868." From 30th June, 1875, to 31st December, 1875. 1. Official visits made to the Asylum from 30th June, 1875, to 31st December, 1875 ... ... 26 2. Patients seen in Asylum between these dates: Males, 152 ; Females, 78 ; total ... ... 230 3. Miles travelled from 30th June, 1875, to 31st December, 1875, to and from the Asylum, and on business connected therewith ... ... ... ... ... ... 260 H. D. Mobpeth, Inspector of Provincial Lunatic Asylums. Ponsonby, Auckland, sth February, 1876. Sib, — Ponsonby Eoad, Auckland, 26th January, 1876. In accordance with " The Lunacy Act, 1868," I beg herewith to send your Honor my annual report on the state of the Provincial Lunatic Asylum for the year 1875. I have, &c, H. D. Mobpeth, Inspector of Lunatic Asylums for the Province of Auckland. His Honor the Superintendent, Auckland. Sib, — Ponsonby Road, Auckland, 26th January, 1876. Having so very fully entered into details in my last year's report as to the state of the Auckland Provincial Lunatic Asylum, I consider it unnecessary to go over the same ground again, and will therefore not dilate on the subjects I then felt it my duty to submit, but only briefly notice the alterations that have taken place during the year that has terminated. In the first place, I may observe that the Resident Surgeon, Dr. Aickin, and the Keeper, Mr. Lowrey, have continued to manifest the same attention to and regard for the comfort of the patients as they did during the previous year ; and it seems to me that the attendants, both male and female, have got through their work more harmoniously and efficiently than ever they did before. A few of them resigned their situations during the currency of the last year, but their places were immediately filled up by others, who, I am happy to say, have well and efficiently discharged their respective duties; and these, let me add, are more arduous and at times more disagreeable than is generally supposed. The attention of his Honor the Superintendent having been called to the overcrowdedness of the patients, he personally inspected the Asylum, to see if this could in any way be remedied or lessened; and in order thereto he took out with him an architect to consult with. The latter took the necessary measurements. The opinion come to was that it was advisable to convert what was called and used as I—H. 4.

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a chapel into a dormitory, and orders were immediately issued to that effect. The alteration has since been made. I may observe that the walls being high in the chapel and the ventilation good, excellent accommodation has thereby been provided for 34 female patients, and a suitable room has also been laid out for the night nurse, to attend to the wants of the patients after their retirement for the night. It has answered the purpose intended admirably, so far, at least, as the comfort of these patients is concerned. The first room on the right hand on entering the Asylum front door serves now as a temporary chapel; what was formerly the females' large day-room, has also undergone a change, it having likewise been converted into a dormitory for 21 males. No doubt these alterations have lessened the distressing overcrowdedness I pointed out in last year's report; but there is no denying it, this has been effected at the sacrifice of the symmetry of the internal arrangements, and has also rendered the access to these apartments somewhat more awkward and difficult. I regret I have still to state that a proper classification of the patients, so indispensably necessary for their recovery, is still, from the want of space, impracticable. The urgent want of this I particularly pointed out in my last year's report; and when I mention that they have all to be huddled promiscuously together—that is to say, the noisy, the violent, the dangerous, and those approaching to convalescence, who particularly require quiet, and calm repose —it can easily be conceived what a damaging effect it must have on the latter, and how powerfully, in the nature of things, it must protract, where it does not totally prevent their recovery. In all properly laid-out Asylums, an hospital, I need scarcely say, is the very first thing provided for, beyond the clamour and noise of the turbulent. I also fully pointed out this in my last report; but up to this date, this is a want which yet remains to be supplied. Much of the sickness and the slow recovery of some of the patients is mainly attributable to the want of an hospital. In connection therewith, too, I may mention, that the health of the female patients particularly has suffered much from their having to take their meals in the refectory within a few feet of the single sleeping-rooms where the dying and those most diseased in body have to be kept. The offensive effluvia, notwithstanding the disinfectants applied, constantly emanating from these apartments, cannot fail to injure all within its reach, attendants as well as patients; in fact, it was owing to this that some of the attendants felt obliged to leave. The want of proper accommodation for patients who all their life long have been accustomed to the comforts and decencies of life has not yet been provided for. I beg again, therefore, to advert to this matter, which, in my opinion, is sufficiently set forth in my last report. In that report, I also showed what property was attached to the Asylum, and described the garden. With respect to the garden, then, I may mention that it has much improved in value, and has even now attained an importance which, in my opinion, would well warrant the erection of a gardener's cottage in it, in order the better to protect the fruit and vegetables that are now raised. Heretofore, from the garden's distance from the Asylum, it has been regularly plundered, year after year. The produce grown even now more than supplies the wants of the Asylum in everything excepting potatoes. The overplus could readily and profitably be disposed of in Auckland, and it would be yearly increasing in value. The head Grardener is an attendant, and receives pay as such ; and his assistant is a thoroughly recovered patient, and an exceedingly useful man. He has not received any compensation for his gratuitous services as yet, but is worthy of it. A very small cottage would be all that would be required, and the expense need not be much. There may be no impropriety in my extracting from my minute-book the following remarks, the date Gth December, 1875: —" Dr. Aickin informed me that the Keeper of Sunnyside Lunatic Asylum had visited our institution last week. The doctor told me that the only good thing that Mr. Seagar saw about it, was the plain but substantial good food the patients get, but that their dress was disgraceful and a discredit to the province ; in fact, that everything appertaining to the Provincial Lunatic Asylunt of Auckland was anything but what it should be, and that it was poorly and inadequately supported almost in every respect." There can be no denying this. I candidly admit it. In reality, it is nothing but a pauper Lunatic Asylum. To the credit of humanity, most countries liberally provide for Lunatic Asylums, and take a pride in having good ones. Ido not allude to mere brick and mortar nor to the external appearance of the building, which is all well enough and really handsome; would that we too here could justly assert our claim to our having a first-rate Lunatic Asylum. Perhaps the long-continued cry will yet be listened to. It is sincerely to be hoped that it will, for the sake of the poor creatures confined within its prisonlike walls. I beg to submit the following table showing the admissions, discharges, and deaths during the

±875 :— Remained in Asylum, 1st January, 1875 ... Aboriginals Males. 86 3 Females. 48 2 Totals, 134 5 Total 89 50 139 Admitted during the Year — New cases Aboriginals Re-admitted ... 47 3 13 16 2 10 63 5 23 Total 63 28 91 Total number under treatment during year Aboriginals 146 6 '74 4 220 10 ' Total 152 78 230

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Notwithstanding the many disadvantages this institution labours under, I think the foregoing figures will compare favourably with the other Lunatic Asylums throughout the colony, and also with those in the neighbouring colonies. I may here, I think, appropriately remark, that the proportion of discharges in comparison with the admissions, although very good, would undoubtedly be far better if only the friends of the patients showed a natural and becoming anxiety to take them out when informed they were in a fit state to be committed to their care ; but it is a lamentable fact, that the relatives are, generally speaking, exceedingly remiss in this respect, and the consequence is, that many of the patients despondingly sink, and ultimately become confirmed lunatics. I have noticed that if they are not removed at a certain favourable crisis of their malady, the natural tendency is to sink and end in becoming incurable lunatics. I have heard some people express their astonishment at the number of deaths at the Asylum ; but these people talk ignorantly, and as if those admitted into it had all been hale and hearty men and women, whereas the fact is the great majority of them were nothing but mere miserable remnants of mortality—at least 60 per cent, of them—when admitted, and far gone in bodily diseases of all kinds. My only astonishment is that the recoveries are so numerous, and the deaths so comparatively few. It is no more than justice to Dr. Aickin for me to state that he is worthy of all praise for his successful treatment of the patients, and the attention he shows them. The following extract from the New Zealand Herald of the 30th November last goes to corroborate what I have stated. It will also have the more weight when it is borne in mind that Coroners' juries, generally speaking, are far more apt to find fault and censure than to praise:—" The jury returned a verdict, &c, coupled with a rider expressing their feelings that everything had been done for her (the subject of the inquest) that could possibly have been done, and also expressing their satisfaction at the state of the Asylum and patients." Many of the patients still continue to assist in the cultivation of the garden and of the field at the back of the building, and evidently much to the benefit of their health. No coercive measures nor anything like force are allowed in the treatment of the patients. The wet state of the exercising ground during the greater part of the year is still a matter for regret. I suggested what I conceived would remedy it in my last report. I find that heretofore it has pretty much been the practice to allow the foul body linen and wornout garments of the dead and of diseased men and women, swarming with vermin and sweltering in all sorts of corruption, to accumulate until the end of the year, and then to take an account of them and burn or bury them, together with all the useless and worn-out hats and shoes, &c. In a country like this, particularly where infection is so apt to spread, I consider such a practice highly objectionable, and should be put a stop to. The Keeper, in whom every confidence can be reposed, should in my opinion order the immediate combustion or burial of all articles on their becoming unserviceable ; but a heaping up of and a scrutiny of all such filthy materials is as preposterous as it is dangerous, for it were dangerous to touch them except with a pitchfork, and perhaps not safe even then. Whatever has a tendency to prejudicially affect the health of so large a body of men and women as are shut up in the Provincial Lunatic Asylum should be very carefully guarded against. A sense of the responsibility that attaches to the situation I hold constrains me to speak out so very plainly as I have done ; —it is out of the question and wrong to speak mincingly on subjects of such grave importance to the whole community : as least, such is my opinion. I have to express my regret that the appeal I made to the public on behalf of the patients for old illustrated newspapers, old engravings, and books and things of that sort was not responded to, except in the case of three ladies and one gentleman. Perhaps the great distance to the Asylum was the principal reason why the appeal so signally failed. If so, I beg to say I shall gladly take charge of anything that may be sent to my residence, Ponsonby Eoad, as will also Mr. Francis Quick, livery stables, Victoria Street, Auckland. There have been five entertainments given to the patients during the last year. Such of them as are approximating to convalescence take great delight in them ; and the Eesident Surgeon, who believes these things have a curative tendency, does everything in his power to please and gratify the poor afflicted ones under his charge. I have made 52 visits during the past year to the Asylum, and have travelled in connection with its business about 500 miles. I respectfully submit that I should be permitted to engage a cab when I have occasion to go there. The departure of the Whau 'bus from Auckland to anywhere in the neighbourhood of the Asylum is at too late an hour of the day, and does not admit of sufficient time to the Inspector to do all that is requisite when he arrives there. The patients have to be inspected about 10 o'clock a.m. I do not think it can be said I have withheld anything which either the Government or the public would like to know, or should bo made acquainted with.

Discharged during the year Aboriginals -Males. 39 1 Females. 16 1 Total. 55 2 Total 40 17 57 Died during the year ... Aboriginals 10 2 2 1 12 3 Total 12 3 15 Remained in Asylum on 31st December, 1875 Aboriginals 99 3 56 2 155 5 Total 102 58 160

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The Resident Surgeon, the Keeper, and myself all feel that we are underpaid for our services, and I am told the male attendants likewise conceive that in justice their salaries ought to be increased. Dr. Paley, than whom no higher authority could be adduced in regard to Lunatic Asylums, stayed, in the year 1872 or 1873, about a week in Auckland, I am credibly informed, and during that time repeatedly visited the Auckland Provincial Lunatic Asylum, and made it his business to thoroughly acquaint himself with the whole of its routine ; and I am told, moreover, that he expressed it as his decided opinion that its officials were not paid so well as in the other Asylums. He also said, with respect to the male attendants, that the practice observed in other Asylums was to give them a rise of £5 every year according to merit (salary commencing at £60), until their salaries amounted to £120, and he did not see why a system which acted so beneficially elsewhere should not be adopted here. I would only, in conclusion, remark that Dr. Paley is quite cognizant of all the duties that have to be performed by the respective officers, and consequently that from his position he might be considered a competent judge as to the adequacy or inadequacy of Lunatic Asylums officials' salaries. In my own individual case, I think that no man of common sense or honor either can or will say that I am sufficiently paid for the services rendered by me. I have, &c, H. D. Morpeth, J.P. Inspector of Lunatic Asylums for the Province of Auckland. His Honor the Superintendent, Auckland.

No. 2. Mr. Eeadeb Wood to the Hon. the Colonial Secbetabt. Sib, — Superintendent's Office, Auckland, 7th March, 1876. Adverting to the Inspector's annual report upon the Auckland Provincial Lunatic Asylum, which I transmitted to you on the 4th February ultimo for presentation to Parliament, I have the honor to request that you will be good enough to cause the enclosed correspondence to be appended thereto, and to be laid before the Assembly. I have, &c, Eeadeb Wood, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. (for the Superintendent).

Enclosure 1 in No. 2. Mr. Eeadeb Wood to Mr. Mobpeth. Sib, — Superintendent's Office, Auckland, 4th February, 1876. Eeferring to that paragraph in your annual report on the Provincial Lunatic Asylum in which you state that the custom prevails of allowing all worn-out clothing to accumulate until the end of each year, I have the honor to inquire why, in your capacity as Inspector, you allowed this " corruption " to accumulate without reporting the matter until such a state of things has arisen as you describe in your report? I have, Ac, Eeadeb Wood, The Inspector of Asylums, Auckland. Provincial Secretary.

Enclosure 2 in No. 2. Mr. Mobpeth to Mr. Eeadeb "Wood. Sib, — Ponsonby, Auckland, sth February, 187 G. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of yesterday's date. Tou ask " Why in my capacity as Inspector I allowed this corruption to accumulate without reporting the matter until such a state of things has arisen as I describe." In answer thereto I beg to state that the report I have recently sent in is only my second report. I could not refer to everything in my first report, seeing my connection with the institute was of so comparatively recent a date. Perhaps the more pertinent question would have been, " Why did not my predecessors acquaint the Government with such a state of things ?" But I respectfully submit that I am not in any way answerable for either their acts or for their laches. Permit me to observe that the object for keeping to the end of the year the worn-out garments and bedding of the patients so particularly mentioned and animadverted on in my report was that a proper account might be given to the Government of all the garments and bedding, &c, supplied to the patients. The practice, in my opinion, was decidedly a wrong one, for I thought that Mr Lowrey, so long and so faithful an officer, might well be trusted to give a correct account. At all events, be that as it may, I have given him strict injunctions to at once bury or burn whatsoever is unserviceable, keeping, of course, an account of such materials, but not for the time to come to allow an accumulation of such useless materials to lie rotting in any part of the premises. I very humbly, but at the same time confidently, submit that I have a just right to take credit to myself for having brought under the notice of the Government a state of things that ought never to have existed; and if I have been the means of putting an end to so pernicious and dangerous a system, I submit that I have done that which is right and proper. It is notorious to Dr. Aickin and to Mr. Lowrey, the keeper, that I have, particularly of late, called the attention of the Matron and her attendants to the very offensive effluvia floating through

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the refectory and some of the female dormitories. Here, permit me to observe, that a more perfect system of ventilation in this part .of the building is, in my opinion, indispensably necessary. In conclusion, I beg most respectfully to submit that I have spoken openly to Dr. Aickin and to Mr. Lowrey my disapprobation of all and everything calculated to create all offensive or unpleasant smells in the building, but I am very sensible at the same time that the blame lies not with them. The female refectory particularly has always had an offensive smell; but in justice to the Matron and the female attendants it may be very true what they assert, that the premises do not admit of a free circulation of wholesome air, so essentially necessary where so many are congregated and sleeping together. No doubt greater space and room are requisite for purer air, and a proper classification of the patients; but in my opinion a better system of ventilation should be at once attended to. I have, &c, H. D. Morpeth, The Provincial Secretary, Auckland. Inspector of the Lunatic Asylum.

Enclosure 3 in No. 2. The Peovincial Seceetaey to the Eesident Suegeon. Sic, — Superintendent's Office, Auckland, 4th February, 1876. I have the honor to enclose an extract from the Inspector's annual report upon the Provincial Lunatic Asylum, in which it is stated that the custom prevails of allowing all worn-out clothing to accumulate until the end of each year, and I have to request that you will inform me whether this allegation is correct, and, if so, why and under what authority this " corruption," as the Inspector calls it, has been allowed to accumulate. I have, &c, Eeadeb Wood, The Eesident Surgeon, Provincial Lunatic Asylum. Provincial Secretary.

Enclosure 4 in No. 2. The Eesident Suegeon to the Provincial Seceetabt. Sib, — Provincial Lunatic Asylum, Auckland, Bth February, 1876. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 4th instant, and also an extract from the Inspector's annual report upon this Asylum, in which it is stated that " the custom prevails of allowing all worn-out clothing to accumulate until the end of each year." This has been the practice since the opening of this Asylum, and before I became connected with it. The storekeeper is required "to give an account of all stores received and expended." Acting under this direction, he has caused all worn-out and useless articles to be placed in one of the cellars at the extremity of the building —they are vaults only used for storing coals, potatoes, &c, and quite remote from the asylum, i.e. the part in which the patients- reside. The old clothing, useless articles of kitchen furniture, &c, have been placed in this vault by the storekeeper, with the view of showing the Inspector that such articles were worn out and wholly unfit for use. Once annually, during eight years, they have been inspected by the several Visiting Inspectors, who certified that these articles were condemned as useless. As to the infection arising from these articles, I know nothing whatever. There may bo a musty smell from this vault, but nothing more. There have been no infectious diseases since I. took charge of the medical treatment of the inmates. The place in which these articles were stored awaiting inspection is quite remote from the patients' quarters ; and if it were possible to communicate any infection whatever, the patients could have no access to it, as it is in a totally different part of the building. I beg to state that during more than seven years I have never known of more than one case of disease likely to spread ; it was a case of typhoid fever inadvertently sent from the Thames as a case of acute mania, which lat once recognized and treated accordingly. There were no more cases. Torn shirts, blankets, &c, stored in this cellar, could not communicate infection to persons who reside some 100 feet from it. As to " swarming with vermin," the practice has iuvariably been to burn all such clothing forthwith ; and I believe that the patients hitherto have been kept in a perfectly clean and healthy condition. At the same time, lam of opinion that the storekeeper should be permitted to destroy worn-out clothing when proved useless, and certify accordingly. In conclusion, I must remark that our worthy Inspector's fears regarding infection from such a source seem to be greatly exaggerated, inasmuch as after eight years' inspection of worn-out clothing and other articles condemned as useless, I have never met with a single case of disease which could be attributed to such an origin. I have, &c, Thos. Aickin, M.D., The Provincial Secretary. Eesident Surgeon.

Enclosure 5 in No. 2. The Provincial Secbetaet to the Inspector of Lunatic Asylums. Sic, — Superintendent's Office, Auckland, 11th February, 1876. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, dated the sth instant, in reply to my inquiry regarding the accumulation of worn-out clothing in a state of corruption, as described in your annual report.

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I enclose an extract from a communication received from the Resident Surgeon upon this subject, and beg to be informed whether you desire to make any remarks thereon. I have, &c, Readee Wood, The Inspector of Asylums, Auckland. Provincial Secretary.

Sub-Enclosure to Enclosure 5 in No. 2. Extract from Letter of Resident Suhoeon to Provincial Secretary, dated Bth Eebruary, 1870. " Torn shirts, blankets, &c, stored in this cellar could not communicate infection to persons who reside some hundred feet from it. As to ' swarming with vermin,' the practice has invariably been to burn all such clothing forthwith, and I believe that the patients hitherto have been kept in a perfectly clean and healthy condition. At the same time I am of opinion that the storekeeper should be permitted to destroy worn-out clothing when proved useless, and certify accordingly."

Enclosure 6 in No. 2. The Inspector of Lunatic Asylums to the Provincial Secretary. Sir, — Ponsonby, Auckland, 15th February, 1876. On my return from the Asylum yesterday, I had the honor to receive your letter of the 11th instant, enclosing an extract from a communication received from the Resident Surgeon, in regard to the accumulation of worn-out clothing in a state of corruption, and asking me if I desired to make any remarks thereon. In reply, I beg to state that I am unaware that in any part of my report I have said that the patients have hitherto not been kept in a perfectly clean and healthy condition. With respect to the report I had the honor to forward to his Honor the Superintendent, I beg to inform you that previous to my sending it, knowing that I had mentioned in it both the Resident Surgeon and the Keeper, I conceived that I was bound in honor to read to them what I had said of them, and when I next went to the Asylum I took out with me a verbatim et literatim copy of that report. I read it calmly aud deliberately to them both, and in the presence of each other; and when I had finished reading it, I asked them what they thought of it, when they replied they " quite agreed with it, and hoped it might do good," or words to that effect, but not a word of dissent or disapprobation was uttered by either of them. I think I have now said all that is necessary. I have, &c, H. D. Morpeth, The Provincial Secretary, Auckland. . Inspector of Provincial Lunatic Asylums.

Enclosure 7 in No. 2. The Provincial Secretary to the Inspector of Lunatic Asylums. Sir, — Superintendent's Office, Auckland, 2Gth February, 1876. "With reference to your annual report upon the Auckland Lunatic Asylum, and the correspondence that has taken place relating thereto, I am instructed by his Honor the Superintendent to inform you that he has for some time past been of opinion that he could procure the services of a person who would bo in every respect more fitted than yourself to fulfil the duties of Inspector of the Provincial Lunatic Asylum. As you seem dissatisfied with the payment which you receive for your services, his Honor at once relieves you from the duties of the office. I have, &c, Reader "Wood, H. D. Morpeth, Esq., J.P., Inspector of Asylums, Auckland. Provincial Secretary.

No. 3. The Provincial Secretary, Auckland, to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sib — Superintendent's Office, Auckland, 30th March, 1876. "With reference to my letter dated the 7th instant, I have the honor to transmit the enclosed copy of further correspondence in respect of the Inspector's annual report upon the Provincial Lunatic Asylum, for presentation to Parliament. I have, &c, Reader "Wood, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, "Wellington. (for the Superintendent).

Enclosure 1 in No. 3. Mr. Morpeth to His Honor the Superintendent, Auckland. Sic, Ponsonby, Auckland, 27th March, 1876. I heg very respectfully to request, if your Honor will obligingly permit it, the withdrawal of my report, dated the 26th January last, on the state of the Provincial Lunatic Asylum during the year 1875. I have, &c, Hia Honor the Superintendent, Auckland. H. D. Mobpeth.

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Enclosure 2 in No. 3. The Provincial Secretary, Auckland, to Mr. Morpeth. Sir, — Superintendent's Office, Auckland, 30th March, 1876. I am directed by his Honor the Superintendent to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated the 27th instant, requesting the withdrawal of your report upon the Provincial Lunatic Asylum, and to inform you, in reply, that, a copy having been already forwarded to the Colonial Secretary for presentation to Parliament, in accordance with section 60 of the Lunatics Act, the report cannot be withdrawn. I have, &c, Reader Wood, H. D. Morpeth, Esq., J.P., Ponsonby, Auckland. Provincial Secretary.

TARANAKI. No. 4. Mr. Crompton to His Honor the Superintendent, Taranaki. Sir,— New Plymouth, 22nd March, 1876. I have the honor to state, for the information of the Hon. the Colonial Secretary, that I have occasionally visited tho Lunatic Asylum during the half-year ended 31st December, 1875. Dennis Clifford, Stephen Coad, and William Jordan still remain with their friends, as stated in my report dated 2nd July last, and conduct themselves in a satisfactory manner. Mary Brewer, a married woman and mother of four children, was admitted a lunatic on the 7th of July last. An attempt was made by her husband to take charge of her on the 10th of August last. A return of dangerous symptoms appearing, she was again admitted into the Asylum on the 15th of September, where t she has remained ever since, and is become, I fear, a hopeless case of lunacy, notwithstanding every attention has been paid to her personal comfort, cleanliness, and food. I have, &c, Wm. M. Crompton, His Honor the Superintendent, New Plymouth. Inspector in Lunacy. Mary Brewer, referred to above, was sent from this place to Mount View Asylum, Wellington, by the " Taupo," the last steamer which left here for the South. Fred. A. Carrington, New Plymouth, 3rd March, 1876. Superintendent.

HAWKE'S BAT. No. 5. Mr. Sealey to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sir,— Napier, 26th April, 1876. In compliance with section No. 60 of " The Lunatics Act, 1868," I have the honor to report on the Napier Lunatic Asylum (the only one in this province) for the year 1875. Since my last annual report, the new Asylum (which I then referred to as being in course of construction) has been completed, and the patients have been transferred to it. The building is on the ground adjacent to the gaol, and is under the general control of the gaoler, Mr. William Miller, as before. There is, however, a resident warder, who with his wife attend entirely to the Asylum. The building consists of a centre and two wings. The right wing contains the dormitories of the male patients, and the left wing those of the females. There is an exercise court between the wings, and there are others on each side of the building. These courts are inconveniently small; but in consequence of the formation of the ground, which had to be made by cutting and filling from the hill, the space can only be extended by a heavy expenditure, and then only to a limited extent. The formation of the ground was the work of the hard-labour gang from the gaol, and whilst it lasted it enabled these men to be advantageously employed on the Gaol Reserve. In consequence of their limited extent, and the necessary high fence which encloses them, and their position bounded on three sides by the hill, these courts will be found, I fear, oppressively hot in summer, in ordinary seasons; but in winter they will, from their sheltered position and efficient drainage, be dry and comparatively warm. In the adjacent building, lately used as an Asylum, but now vacated, Mr. Miller contrived to modify the effect of the heat by the growth of vines over a portion of the yards (at a height beyond the reach of the patients), and these afforded them an agreeable shade. Probably the same expedient will be resorted to in the yards of the new Asylum, where the warmth of the position and the great depth of made soil are highly favourable to the growth of the vine, which in such circumstances produces crops of surprising luxuriance. With regard to the internal accommodation, this is equal to present requirements ; but so far as the male patients are concerned there is little to spare. I am glad, however, to be able to say that the portion devoted to female lunatics is comparatively untenanted. At my last visit, a few days since, there were thirteen male and four female lunatics in the Asylum. Nine of the males and four of the females were confined at the date of my last annual report, and, with perhaps two exceptions, may, I think, be regarded as incurable. Ten male and three female patients were admitted during the year 1875; and six males and two females were discharged. One male patient died after a gradual decline. Eour of the male patients admitted were suffering from temporary insanity induced by drink, and were discharged after a short interval. The

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female patients included two Scandinavians and one Maori. The latter, after about four months detention, was returned in improved health to her friends, who promised to take charge of her; and I have since heard a favourable account of her. One German man (Mittler) and one Scandinavian woman (Ole Maria Jensen) are recent immigrants, aud appear to have been insane when they arrived in the colony. One young man, Herbert Beid, was brought before the Magistrate's Court here charged with attempted suicide, and, being evidently insane, was submitted for medical certificate and sent to the Asylum. He has since made several attempts on his life, and has now to be confined in the gaol for greater security against a recurrence of these attempts. It will be observed that the number of the insane in the province has increased in about the same proportion as the population; and as many of these art; incurable persons, w rho may, however, live for many years, it is obvious that the capacity of the Asylum must from time to time be extended, unless arrangements can be made for drafting them off to a Central Asylum where they would have greater advantages in respect of exercise and recreation than can be afforded them in a small institution, where they must either be all huddled together (so far, at least, as each sex is concerned), or, if classified, the limited space and accommodation must be still further restricted by the necessity of subdividing ; in addition to which it will be observed also that from the small number of patients few amusements can be introduced, nor can they have the advantages of constant supervision by a medical officer specially devoted to that branch of his profession. I trust, therefore, that when the Assembly provides for the administration of the estates of the several provinces, the subject of transferring the insane (with the exception of temporary cases) from the smaller of the existing Asylums to one or more large ones will be considered. In conclusion, I have only to say that the patients are well attended to by the officer in charge of them, and due regard is paid to cleanliness, ventilation, &c. A i'ew books and illustrated and other newspapers are supplied to them by the kindness of visitors and friends. I have, &c, H. B. Scaly, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. Inspector.

NELSON. No. 6. Mr. Bough to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sir, — Lunatic Asylum, Nelson, sth January, 1876. I do myself the honor to report to you that since tho 19th July last, eleven male and four female insane persons have been admitted to this Asylum under medical certificates and requisite orders from the proper authorities. Seven men and one woman have been discharged cured or relieved, and two men removed ; two men having also died. There remains at this time thirty male and seventeen female lunatics. "With reference to my report of the 19th July last, I beg leave to state that preparations are being made for removing the insane to the new Asylum, but much still remains to be done to render that building and grounds suitable for their reception; and as the summer season is passing, it is very desirable that everything should be done to render the new Asylum completely ready before the approach of winter. I beg leave earnestly to call your attention to the subject in my last report before mentioned, especially as regards the necessity for more space, and means of affording out-door and in-door occupation and amusements for the insane. No arrangement whatever appears to be in progress for erecting separate accommodation for refractory and noisy lunatics, so necessary in a wooden building to prevent disturbance to the quieter patients. I have, &c, D. Bough, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. Honorary Inspector.

WESTLAND. No. 7. Mr. FitzG-erald to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Office of Inspector of Lunatic Asylums, Sir,— Hokitika, 29th January, 1876. I have the honor to report as follows on the Luuatic Asylum at Hokitika, for the year ended December 31st, 1875 s— Males. Females. Total. Tho number of patients in the Asylum on December 31, 1875, was 37 11 48 The number at the end of the previous year having been ... 40 13 53 There were received during the year 1875 ... ... 14 2 16 There were discharged cured during the same period ... 8 3 11 Discharged improved ... ... ... ... ... 2 0 2 Died during the year ... ... ... ... ... 7 1 S The causes of death were as follows : —Males : Disease of the heart, 1; softening of the brain, 2 ; paralysis, 2 ; epilepsy, 1; erysipelas, I—total, 7. Females : Softening of the brain, 1. Total, 8.

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The average weekly cost for maintenance of each patient was 19s. Id., which includes every expense incurred on behalf of the institution. The sleeping accommodation of the Asylum is insufficient, but the buildings have recently been inspected by the Provincial Engineer, and I understand that the Provincial Government contemplate making some additions which will remedy this defect. With this exception, experience has shown that the Asylum buildings are admirably suited for the purpose for which they were designed. The daywards are roomy, lofty, and well ventilated; the cooking arrangements are admirable ; there are good baths and wash-houses ; and the situation of the Asylum is all that could be desired. The male patients have already done a great deal towards beautifying and improving the site. In front of both the male and female divisions there is a large garden, tolerably well stocked with flowers, shrubs, and young trees, and running out to the edge of the high terrace which overlooks the sea. At the rear of the Asylum the patients have, under the supervision of the Keeper, cleared and laid out as an ornamental garden about four acres of land. The whole of these four acres is well stocked; and the numerous young trees, principally evergreens, are thriving well, and in the course of a few years will become useful both for shade and shelter. To the eastward of this garden extends a reserve for " Provincial Government purposes," and there the stronger patients are employed in wood-cutting, and in growing vegetables for the Asylum. The artisans are employed at their various trades when practicable, and in almost every instance work willingly and skilfully. As an instance, I may mention that the carpenters, besides doing a good deal of useful work about the main building, have recently put up in one part of the grounds a large and well-constructed summer-house, and in another part an aviary, which is about to be stocked with birds. In previous reports I have mentioned the various amusements which are provided—viz., for " out of doors," cricket and quoits ; and for " in doors," billiards, draughts, cards, <fee. There is a weekly dance in the Asylum ; and the patients are from time to time taken out to races and local sports. Occasionally they have been taken to the theatre, and every Saturday they walk in the suburbs of the town. In conclusion, I would remark that great credit is due to Mr. Gribben, the keeper, for the manner in which he has discharged his onerous duties. I have, Ac, G. G. Fitz Gerald, Inspector of Lunatic Asylums for the Province of Westland. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. Beturn under Part IV., Section 60, of "The Lunatics Act, 1868." Number of visits to the Sea View Lunatic Asylum during the half-year ended December 31st, 1875, 3; total number of patients seen during the above visits, 144 ; number of miles travelled, 9. Average number of patients in the Asylum during the half-year ended December 31st, 1875, 51. G. G. FitzGerald, Inspector.

CANTEEBURY. No. 8. Mr. Hamilton to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sunnyside Lunatic Asylum, Canterbury. 1. For the information of the Hon. the Colonial Secretary, I have the honor to report that, during the year ended 31st December, 1875, I made eleven official visits to Sunnyside Asylum. They were made at intervals of about one month apart, and when they were not likely to be expected, —sometimes on days when it was known that other official duty usually required my attendance at Christchurch. Some visits were made at nights, others within four or five days of a previous inspection. It was thus ascertained that no falling off in the management was allowed, on the presumption that the Inspector would not be seen again for some weeks. 2. The " number of patients seen" each time was from 162 in January to 180 at the end of December, the numbers gradually increasing as usual all through the year. The proportion of females to males remains at about one-half as heretofore. 3. The "number of miles travelled " by the Inspector is nominal, the Asylum being between two and three miles only from Christchurch. 4. The "state and condition of the buildings " is very satisfactory (and indeed could not be more so) as far as regards the new female wards built of concrete, and forming the western wing of a large and what will be a complete structure, designed with a view to providing amply for the wants of the future, and on plans tried and approved in England. To this wing, carrying out the general plan, an addition is so far advanced towards completion as to secure accommodation for thirty-two more female patients in the course of the year 1876. In this part of the Asylum, nothing has, 1 think, been overlooked that could insure the comfort and well-being of the patients, or promote the restoration to health of those who may be curable. In my report of last year, the arrangements of this new female ward were mentioned in detail. I have only to add, that since then a spacious and tastefully planted garden and shrubbery and a recreation ground have been finished and got into good order. The use of it, or even the look-out over it from the windows and balcony, cannot fail to be conducive to the cheerfulness of the female patients. The airing-yard for the " refractories " has been asphalted and well drained, and has thus the advantage of being fit for use almost as soon as rain has passed over. By the ingenious contrivance of a large mound in the centre of the yard, with a summer-house on the top, Mr. E. W. Seager, the keeper, has provided that this very difficult class of patients shall be able at all times to enjoy the view over the surrounding country, while, at the same time, no extra risk is incurred of their being able to escape. I need scarcely remark on the great assistance the Medical Officer must derive, in his attempts to effect a cure, from any plan that should tend to remove the depression of 2—H. 4.

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spirits that must be caused by confinement to airing-yards beyond or over the walls of which the patients can obtain no view. 5. It is greatly to be regretted that the airing-yards of the two wards for the male refractories cannot be similarly reported of favourably. They are sadly cheerless and dreary ; there is no view beyond the walls, and they can only be compared to the yards of a prison. 6. These two yards belong to the old Asylum building erected many years ago, when funds were not abundant, and most things in the colony had to be done on the makeshift system. The " state and condition of this building " is such that it is not worth while to spend any more public money on it, except upon such temporary repairs as are absolutely unavoidable. It should only now be thought of and dealt with as a provisional shed, pending the erection of the male wards which are to form part of the permanent structure, as designed on a general and systematic plan suitable for a large Lunatic Asylum. 7. A considerable portion of the upper floor of the old building is very shaky, and the woodwork of the single cells in the refractory yard is very old and beginning to rot, especially about the floors, which were built too close to the ground. 8. Although all the female patients were removed by the early part of the year to their new wards, and the old building could be then given up entirely for male patients, the additional space has not been sufficient for them, because they had previously been overcrowded. There is still great want of sleeping accommodation. In the dormitories the beds are only one foot apart, the hammocks only one foot six inches, far too close for health. Many of the " refractories " can only have the very best" shake downs "in the day wards. Their cells in the yards are too small and too low, and consequently close and unwholesome for sleeping in. Much additional provision is needed for the comfort of the refractory patients at night. They ought not to be obliged to sleep in the day wards, which moreover are no longer large enough for the numbers placed in them. 9. In fact the old building was only put together bit by bit as patients increased, but upon no general plan laid down to meet future wants. It is not to be wondered at, therefore, if, after fourteen or fifteen years, it is no longer adequate to the present large demands upon it. 10. The " state and condition of the building," as described, sufficiently proves how urgently needed is that wing of the permanent Asylum which has been planned for the reception of male patients, and how indispensable it is that orders be given to put the new work in hand with the utmost promptitude. At the ordinary rate at which large stone or concrete buildings progress here, this new wing would hardly be finished under two years. How the usual increase in the number of male patients is to be provided for in the interval, except at a great cost for temporal accommodation, will be a serious matter for the architect to consider. I would, however, urge, that as the female patients have at last been so thoroughly well cared for and made so comfortable in their new wards, it is only reasonable that the male patients should in their turn be equally well provided for, and with all despatch. 11. While thus remarking on the present defective accommodation and the condition of the old building, it is but right to note that a steady and marked improvement has been going on throughout the institution at Sunnyside during the five years since I was first asked to undertake the Inspectorship. Owing to the very liberal grants from the provincial authorities, the patients are now, in every respect, in a very far better position than they were then. The great necessity in this colony, as in Victoria, is to keep the buildings always in advance ofthe demands for the admission of new patients, the number of whom seems to be always on the increase. 12. As to the "care ofthe patients :" the Keeper and Matron, and the attendants generally, seem to bestow every attention upon the patients' personal cleanliness, and on that of their rooms, their beds, and whatever else they have to use. Their dress is neat, and generally their bodily health seems to be good. The rations are wholesome, and the food is properly cooked. There is now a regular night attendant engaged for all the female wards, as there has for a long time past been for the male wards, the wards are all kept well-aired, and are always sweet and wholesome during the day time. But at night the male sleeping wards cannot be kept so, owing to the want of sufficient space. Necessarily this must prejudicially affect the health of the male patients, more especially of those in the refractory wards. As a set-off, on the other hand, the increase in the staff of attendants and the relief afforded by the completion of the new female wards, and the separation of the male patients in one building, has rendered it possible to send a larger number from the refractory wards out to work on the ground. One great want has long been felt—that of a secure fence round the whole of the ground. It would then be possible to take all but the very worst of the refractories out to walk every day, without the risk of their escaping. Their bodily health- ought to improve by this change from their very dreary airing-yards. 13. As to amusements, which afford such important assistance in restoring to health those who are curable, the keeper, Mr. Seager, is untiring in his exertions to provide them. The Recreation Hall has been enlarged, aud the organ improved. Balls and parties are frequently given, plays are acted in which some of the convalescents sometimes take a part, various professional people, when visiting Christchurch, are exceeding kind in responding to Mr. Seager's requests that they should give some of their performances at the Recreation Hall. Music and singing is kept up as much as possible among the patients and attendants. In summer excursions are taken into the country, and also to Sumner for sea-bathing. lam glad to note that the game of cricket has been introduced this year. 14. Divine service is held every Sunday ; the service is mostly semi-choral. There is a very fair choir, of which some of the patients are members, and regular weekly choir practices are kept up under the supervision of Mr. Berkeley, the organist. The Rev. W. Somers Cocks, as chaplain, visits regularly on week-days. His influence is very beneficial with many of the patients. 15. The number of patients on the 31st December, 1875, was—Males, 112 ; females, 68; in all, 180. This is fast approaching just double the maximum number (100) at which Dr. Paley reports that a resident medical officer should be appointed. By the end of 1876, and at the usual rate of increase, there will be 200 patients. There is, however, no residence built for a medical officer, nor is there one for the keeper. He and his family have rooms in the old building, which are far too few and small for the number who occupy them to expect to remain in constant good health.

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16. The number of patients was as follows :— Males. Females. Total. Increase. 1872.—June ... ... ... ... 75 34 109 1873—January ... ... ... ... 80 37 117 8 1874.— „ ... ... ... ... 94 46 140 23 1875.— „ ... ... ... ... 108 60 168 28 1875.—December 31 ... ... ... 112 68 180 12 This is the absolute increase, after deducting for deaths and discharges. The discharges average now from 60 to 70 per cent, on admissions. As the total increase is now about 20 to 24 yearly, and will be greater in each succeeding year, and as there is no room for more male patients, the necessity for at once commencing to erect the new permanent wards for males is obviously urgent. It will be noted also, from the above table, that twice as much accommodation must be provided for males as for females. 17. In March, 1875,1 noticed three admissions, since my visit made a month previously, of patients recently arrived from England, all of whom I had reason to presume were not of sound mind when they left. One of them, at all events, the medical officer entered on the register as suffering from congenital dementia. It is not unreasonable to presume that this person was fraudulently palmed ofl' on the agents at home to become a permanent burden on the colony. A cursory examination of the register led me to note the following cases. I give no names, only the register number of each patient:— No. 549, Male, admitted 4th March, 1875.'—General paralysis. Was ill in Germany in the same manner. Landed at Timaru from the ship " Lorenzen" about six months ago. No. 550, Fein., admitted 9th March, 1875. —Congenital dementia. Came out in the " Lady Jocelyn," and was either landed direct or sent on to Timaru. No. 551, F., admitted March, 1875. —Acute mania. Came to Asylnm from the Hospital. Sent to the Hospital direct from the ship " Hereford." No. 392, F., admitted 20th December, 1872.—Congenital. No. 403, F., 4th March, 1873.—Came direct from the ship "Himalaya." No. 432, M., 16th August, 1874.—A Dane or Swede. Congenital. No. 433, F., admitted 16th August, 1874.—Congenital. No. 459, F.—This patient's friends will receive her if Government will send her home to England. No. 599, F., admitted 13th December, 1875.—Arrived in the " Waitaki," 30th October, 1875. No. 600, F., 14th December, 1875.—Arrived in the " Merope," 22nd September, 1875. There arrived also in the " Merope" a harmless lunatic, who was about to be sent back to England. 18. A separate ward in which to isolate fever cases is greatly needed at Sunnyside. In March, 1875, a patient was sent up from the Fever Hospital at Christchurch. Being a female, she could fortunately be placed in the new wards, and was kept so far successfully apart that only one other of the older patients was infected. But a very grave risk was incurred. A male patient, with fever, must have been placed in some one of the dormitories, and the fever woirid in all probability have run through the whole of the male patients. It is very unlikely that there would be no deaths in such a case. 19. I would again beg to refer to my report of last year, on the desirability of detaching " inebriates " entirely from the Lunatic Asylum. All leading authorities on lunacy seem to be of one opinion on this question. 20. I noted that some patients had been discharged on receipt of a telegram from the person who signed the order for admission. " The Lunatics Act, 1868," clause 71, requires that such person shall give the order "by writing under his hand." That writing ought, I think, to be in the Keeper's possession and produced to the Inspector. There is always ample time to obtain such written document. There is rarely any urgency whatever in a case of discharge. Lunatic patients do not get well at a day's notice. The Medical Officer's practice is to move patients into the convalescent ward for at least a month before he will sign a recommendation for their discharge. There is no guarantee for the authenticity of a telegram. And as population increases, very serious abuses might spring up, especially where there was property to be got hold of, by facilitating discharges under orders by telegram. 21. On the 7th December, in examining the transfer papers of male patient No. 593, from Mount View Asylum at Wellington, to Sunnyside, they were not sufficient legally to warrant his detention. Under clause 19, I directed that the defective order should be amended within twentyone days. This has never been done. Clauses 68 and 71 are explicit as to the documents which shall warrant such a transfer, There are wanting, to protect the Keeper at Sunnyside from any action at law for wrongful detention of patient 593: —A. " The previous consent in writing of the Colonial Secretary," (or of his delegate) ; —B. The Eesident Magistrate (Wellington), " Order in writing under his hand." The Act distinctly requires that these orders shall be "in duplicate," one for the. Keeper who removes, the other for the Keeper who receives the patient. There are also wanting : —C. Copies certified officially by the Keeper of the Wellington Asylum, of the original orders and certificates upon which the patient was received into Mount View Asylum. The patient was committed on 19th October, 1876, by the Eesident Magistrate, Wellington. This is the first case of transfer I have known of at Sunnyside. I submit that the law should be carried out precisely by the persons concerned; not because there is reason to suppose that there has been any evil intent in confining or removing the patient, but because no bad or careless precedent should be allowed by Keepers or Inspectors. For, as population increases, the abuses and evils in connection with Lunatic Asylums at Home, which were exposed not so many years ago, may be expected to creep in here, if the law, which is intended to prevent them, is carelessly administered where it is most precise and explicit. 22. Having mentioned what shortcomings had attracted my notice during the year, it is my duty to bring before you the following testimony of a high authority as to the management of Sunnyside

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It ought to afford great gratification to the Provincial authorities and to the Keeper. I transcribed it from the Visitors' Bemark Book. Dr. John Hasard, of the " Merope," surgeon-superintendent of Durham Asylum (on leave of absence for health), writes: — " I had no idea that there was an asylum in New Zealand which would compare so favourably with those at home, both in regard to its arrangement and general management, as this one. lam very much pleased with my visit." Dr. George Graham, M.D., of Cremorne Private Lunatic Asylum, Melbourne, in March, 1874, left the following remark in the Visitors' Book : — "Am much pleased with the internal arrangements. The new Asylum is in every way well conducted, and the management, in my opinion, perfect." J. W. Hamilton, Inspector, Sunnyside Lunatic Asylum. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington.

OTAGO. Beport on the Dunedin Lunatic Asylum for the Tear ending 31st March, 1876. Sir,— Dunedin, 15th May, 1876. I have the honor to report, that during the past year I visited tbe Dunedin Lunatic Asylum at intervals of from two to ten weeks, and always unexpectedly. On every occasion I carefully examined the arrangements of the Asylum aud the condition of the patients, without having occasion to find fault with anything in the province of the officials. The food is always abundant, excellent in quality, and well cooked. The patients are comfortably clad and lodged, and always, so far as I could discover, kindly treated. The only faults to be found with the institution have reference to the unsuitability of the buildings and the liberation. The buildings, owing to the skilful and economical management of Mr. Hume, have, as the excellent results testify, been turned to the best possible account; nevertheless, as a whole, they are quite unfitted for the purposes of a permanent Central Asylum. Last year large additions were made on the male side, while similar extensions were required this year on the female side. In consequence of the great increase of the population, additions on a much larger scale have now become absolutely essential. It has never been possible to classify the patients for special treatment, except in the roughest fashion. A large number of able-bodied patients have been shut in airing-courts who would have been safely and healthfully employed in the open air, had the requisite means been provided. In short, the present buildings are quite insufficient, and it would be simply a waste of money to extend them in the present situation. The piece of ground in which the Asylum stands is much too small. The part of it devoted to a garden, in the absence of any drains or other means of getting rid of the sewerage is saturated with excrements, the surplus of which, has for years been allowed to find its own way down the hill. The rest of the ground has afforded hitherto occupation to a large number of the patients w rho were most beneficially employed in levelling it for the purpose of a recreation ground. This has now been nearly completed, so that their occupation is gone, and with it the chief means of their curative treatment. In short, it is no longer possible to continue the Asylum in its present position. It ought to be removed at once to some place not very far from town, and easily accessible, where a piece of land of from three to five hundred acres can be got for the purpose. Hitherto it has not been possible to carry out the provisions of the Lunacy Act in many most important respects. A new asylum must be built, projected with a view to the requirements of this Act and the imminent increase of lunatics. I have, &c, D. McGregor, His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. Inspector. P.S. —The statistics of the Asylum will be found in the accompanying tables. —D. M.

TABLE I. RETURN of Patients Admitted, Discharged, and Died during the Twelve Months ending the 31st March, 1875.

dumber of patients remaining in the Asylum 1st April, 1874 Admitted from Dunedin and Suburbs ... „ Invercargill ... „ Dunstan „ Tuapeka „ East, West, and North Taieri „ Wakatipu „ Tokomairiro ... „ Hawksbury „ Port Chalmers... „ Oamaru „ Switzers „ Mount Ida „ Dunedin Hospital „ „ Benevolent Institution... „ „ Immigration Barracks ... Males. 127 21 6 1 4 5 2 2 4 2 2 1 3 4 1 0 Females. Total. 51 178 15 3& 1 7 0 1 0 4 3 8 0 2 3 5 1 5 1 3 1 3 2 3 0 3 0 4 0 1 4 4 Total number under treatment 185 82 267

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Showing the Number of Deaths during the Tear and their Causes; also, Age at time of Death. 1 male, aged 42 ; seven years and ten months in Asylum ; cause of death, atrophic degeneration of the brain. 1 male, aged 64 ; six years and nine months in Asylum ; cause of death, senile gangrene. 1 female, aged 26 ; two years in Asylum ; cause of death, epileptic paralysis. 1 male, aged 36; one month in Asylum ; cause of death, general paralysis. 1 male, aged 38 ; twenty-eight days in Asylum ; cause of death, exhaustion from acute mania. 1 male, aged 33 ; fifteen days in Asylum ; cause of death, exhaustion from acute mania. 1 male, aged 45 ; fourteen days in Asylum ; cause of death, general paralysis. 1 male, aged 40 ; fourteen days in Asylum ; cause of death, exhaustion from acute mania. 1 male, aged 48; six days in Asylum; cause of death, general paralysis. Total—B males, 1 female.

TABLE III. AGES of PATIENTS Admitted during the Year.

TABLE IV. OCCUPATION of those Admitted during the Year.

Discharged — Males. Females. Cured... ... ... ... 29 21 Eelieved ... ... ... 2 3 Died 8 1 39 25 64 Remaining in the Asylum 31st March, 1875 ... 146 57 203 Percentage cured on admissions „ total number treated „ of deaths Daily average number for the year ... 56-2 186 34 196 Table II.

Males. . -Temal Jes. ! Total il. rom 10 to 15 years „ 15 to 20 „ „ 20 to 25 „ „ 25 to 30 „ „ 30 to 35 „ „ 35 to 40 „ „ 40 to 45 „ „ 45 to 50 „ „ 50 to 55 „ „ 55 to 60 „ „ 60 to 65 „ „ 65 to 70 „ „ 70 to 75 „ „ 75 to 80 „ 2 6 10 17 9 6 3 3 2 2 2 4 12 3 3 1 2 1 "i 2 4 10 22 20 12 7 5 1 3 2 1 Totals 58 31 89

Butcher Cabinetmaker Coal Miner ... Coal Miner, wife of Contractor, wife of Clergymen's wives Clerks Clerks, wives of Draper Domestic Servants Engineer Farmers Parmers, wives of Grocer Gold Miners ... Hotelkeepers Housekeepers Labourers Males. ] 1 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 5 0 1 12 0 0 21 Females. 0 0 0 1 1 3 0 2 0 6 0 0 6 0 0 1 4 0 Total 1 1 1 1 1 3 2 2 1 6 1 5 6 1 12 1 4 21 il.

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TABLE V. SOCIAL CONDITION of those Admitted during the Year.

TABLE VI. EDUCATION of those Admitted during the Year.

TABLE VII. NATIONALITY of those Admitted during the Year.

TABLE VIII. RELIGIOUS DENOMINATIONS of those Admitted during the Year.

Table . l\.—cont tinned. jabourers, wives of 'ianoforte-makers storekeepers... Storekeeper, wife of ... iailors iailor, wife of Shepherd, wife of itonemasons Warehouseman Vool-classer ... known ... • •• Males. Females. Total. 0 3 3 2 0 2 2 0 2 Oil 4 0 4 Oil Oil 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 Oil Totals 58 31 89

Carried ..married ... Widowed ... nknown ... Males. J 15 33 G 4 Females. 22 5 3 1 Total 37 38 9 5 1.

Ian read and write !an neither read nor write 'an read only Jnknown Males. J 38 5 8 7 Females. Tot_ 22 60 2 7 7 15 0 7 Totals 58 31 89

England Scotland Ireland Victoria Pasmania ■Jew Zealand \ ova Scotia ... iiast Indies ... France )hina lolland )enmark Iweden Males. - 14 23 7 1 1 0 0 1 2 3 3 2 1 Females. . 7 15 7 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 21 38 14 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 3 2 1 Totals 58 31 89

.hurch of England ... 'resbyterians loman Catholics 'nde pendents iVesleyans Lutherans... Pagan Jnknown ... Males. 15 22 8 1 3 4 3 2 Femal 6 14 10 0 1 0 0 0 les. Total 21 36 18 1 4 4 3 2 il. Totals 58 31 89

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TABLE IX. LENGTH of RESIDENCE of PATIENTS residing in the ASYLUM at the end of the Year.

TABLE X. GENERAL RESULTS of each Year, since the Opening of the Asylum in August, 1863.

TABLE XI. DAILY AVERAGE COST of each PATIENT during the YEAR.

Institution opened nder 12 years ,, 11 „ „ 10 „ „ 9 „ „ 8 „ „ 7 „ „ 6 „ „ 5 „ „ 4 „ „ 3 „ „ i „ 1 August, 1 1863. Males. 9 4 5 10 8 7 12 8 18 16 16 33 Females. 6 4 i 4 1 7 8 6 2 7 11 Total. 15 8 5 11 12 8 19 1G 24 18 23 44 Totals 146 57 203

Piebiod. Admitted. Discharged. Recovered. Relieved. Died. Remaining at the end oi" each Year. I* © a - n 3d_2 (-< E $* a Q a o 3 a. _ 01 AI ©_ i-2 o G 11 (1| © g O 0J ° K'l "I a.T3 g° p fi 8 Ph °G s-s -3 _2eh u IS p. M. F. Total M. F. !to._i m. f. 1 Total] M. F. Total M. F. Total Ug. 28 to Sept. 1863... lept. 1863 to Sept. 1864... „ 1864 „ 1865... „ 1865 „ 1866... „ 1866 „ 1867... „ 1867 „ 1868... „ 1868 to Mar. 1869... klar. 1869 „ 1870... „ 1870 „ 1871... „ 1871 „ 1872... „ 1872 „ 1873... „ 1873 „ 1874... „ 1874 „ 1875... 13 45 36 35 61 37 60 63 34 54 55 56 58 8 23 13 11 11 7 16 18 27 17 19 21 31 21 68 49 46 72 44 76 81 61 71 74 77 89 25 20 22 35 26 53 51 21 26 22 -10 29 1 12 11 6 8 4 13 10 16 9 14 18 21 1 37 31 28 43 30 66 61 37 35 36 58 50 2 1 2 1 2 2 i l 4 1 4 2 1 4 2 2 4 5 3 7 4 6 3 5 5 5 7 12 9 8 "i 1 i 3 8 5 6 3 5 6 5 8 15 11 9 13 30 37 45 63 71 72 79 83 104 123 127 146 17 18 17 21 22 25 27 33 44 49 51 51 57 30 48 54 66 85 96 99 112 127 153 174 1 178 I 203 I 10 37 49 62 82 92 102 105 123 ,143 '163 [176 !l96 3'4 8-2 50 43 23 29 33 2-9 4-0 66 4-4 34 4-8 54'4 632 609 59-7 68-1 868 753 60-7 500 1-87 75-3 562 4-8 420 309 28'0 311 23-2 38-4 339 21-4 18-0 160 232 186 4 i '3 2 1 2 2 3 2 i 3 Totals 607 1222 829 370 143 513 17 12 29 74 10 84 58'8 25-4 ... I I - 8*9 (Sum: of Tot, I Admissions since IS 863. Percentage of Recoveries „ Cases Reli „ „ Dea „ „ Ren leved td aaini: 619 35 101 24-5 ig ... 1000

£ s. d. Salaries ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 0 0 6| Rations ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 0 0 6| Stores and furniture ... ... ... ... ... 0 0 Of Puel and light ... ... ... ... ... ... 0 0 Of Medical comforts ... ... ... ... ... ... ' 0 0 Of Bedding and clothing ... ... ... ... ... 0 0 1^ Incidental expenses, stationery, &c. ... ... ... ... 0 0 Of Total 0 1 4| Less repayments ... ... ... ... 0 0 2^ Net daily cost of each patient ... ... ... ... 012 „ weekly „ ... ... ... ... ... 0 8 2 Cost of each patient for the year ... ... ... ... 21 4 8 Total number of days' residence of patients in Asylum during year, 71,629. Repayments from patients duriDg the year ...' ... £778 16 G 'rice Gd." 3v Authority : Geoege Dibsbuet, Government Printer, Wellington. ■]