REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS COMMITTEE.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1878 Session I, I-02

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REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS COMMITTEE.

Presented to the House of Representatives, Session 1878, and ordered to be printed.

INDEX. PETITION. A. PAGE Aitken and Cousins ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 8 Aldridge, 0., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 Alfredton District, Landowners in the ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 14 Amuri District, Ratepayers of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 Amuri Road Board ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Archer, H. J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 Ashley Road Board ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 Atkinson, R. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 8 Auckland Licensed Victuallers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 Auckland Shipbuilders and Shipowners ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 8 B. Baigent, S., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 19 Barnaby, T. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••■ 10 Basstian, C, and other Runholders of Otago ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 Baton District, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Bay of Islands and Mongonui, Electors of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 Biggs, T.H. ... 17 Bishop Moran and other Catholics ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 Bishop Redwood and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Blackett, H., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• 7 Blenheim Fire Brigade ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... •■• I 9 Bluett, W. J. Gr., and Others ... _ ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 16 Boldero, G. T., and Others, of Mangawai ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 4 Buller and Grey Districts, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... I 4 Butler, T. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... •» 4 C. Cameron, D. ... ... ... ... ... ■•■ ... ••• •■■ ■•• U Campbell, J. and N. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... •■• •■• •■• 14 Campbelltown, Residents of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ■•• 14 Canterbury Fire Brigades ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• 17 Carroll, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• ••• ••• 13 Chandler, M. A. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ■•• 9 Chappie, J. C. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••■ 9 Charlton, J. R. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 Clarke, E. 19 Clery, H. A. 8 Cochrane, A. ... ... ... ... ... ■•• ••• ••■ ■•• ••• 4 Colenso, W. ... ... ... ... ... ... - •■• ••• ••• 20 Colesby, J. .. ... ... ... ... ... ... ••■ - ••• 19 Collie, Scott, and Wilkinson ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 Colson, T. 14 Connelly, F. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 Coombes, A., and Grove, J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 16 Cook County Council and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ... 11 Cox, A., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••■ •■• ••• 15 Cousins and Aitken ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• •■• 9 Craig, J. S. 8 Crawford, A. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ■•• •■• ■•• 19 Crawford, J. C. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 17 Crozier, W. ... ... ... ... ••• ••• ••• ••■ ••• ••• 4 D. Dencker, C, and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Devonshire, T., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 14 Dodson, Hooper and ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 17 Donne, G. ■ ... ... ... ... ... ••• ■•• ••• ••• •■• * Dougherty, J., and Hayes, T. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 18

1878. NEW ZEALAND.

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Dromgool, 0. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 Dunedin Fire Brigades ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 17 Dunedin Suburbs Borough. Councils, Delegates of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 Durie, C. A., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 18 E. Earl, E. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 21 East Eyreton Boad Board ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Edmonds, S.J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 15 Elder, W., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Escott, P. H. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 F. Falloon, S. 7 Farnall, H. W., (Claim of) ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 Feltus, E. J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 21 Fire Brigades ... ... ... ... ... ... ~, ... ... ... 17, 19 Fitzpatrick, E., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ~, ... ... 3 Ford, E., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 Forest Hill, Southland, Settlers at ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 14 Fraser, Q-. S., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Friendly Societies of Otago ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 18 Fynes, Father, and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ~, ... ... 11 a. Gardiner, H. D. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 18 Gardiner, W., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ~, ~. ... ... ... 7 Garrick, W. ... ... ... ... ... ,„ ... ... ... ... 3 Gibbes, J. M. ... ... ... ... ... ,„ ... ... ... ... g Gisborne Borough Council, and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 Glenledie District, Settlers in the ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 5 Gollop, W. H. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 4 Gordon, 8., and Mears, W.... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 Gormon, P., and Other Licensed Victuallers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 Graham, W. J., and Others... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Grant, A. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 21 Grave, J. ... ... ... ~, ... ~, ... ~, ... ... 18 Grey and Buller Districts, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 14 Grove, J., and Coombes, A.... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 16 H. Hamilton, M. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ~, ... ... 7 Hardington, H. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 Havelock and Waitahuna, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 Hawke's Bay Agricultural and Pastoral Society ... ... ... ... ... ... 16 Hawke's Bay Fire Brigade ... ... ... ... 17 Hawke, T. ... ... ... ... ... ... ..", [[[ [[[ Z. 17 Hayman, M. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 21 Hayes, T., and Dougherty, J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 18 Heywood, W. E. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ..'. 9 Hiscox, A. V. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 4 Hitchings, T., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 5 Hokitika Lunatic Asylum, Assistants at tho ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 5 Hokitika Volunteer Eire Brigade ... ... ... ... ~ 17 Holland, W. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Z ... ... 3 Holt and McCarthy ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ." lM '" 19 Hooper and Dodson ... ... ... ... ... ... 17 Honeyford, 8., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Howick and Panmure, Catholics of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 J. Jackson's Bay, Settlers at ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... jg Jebson, J., and Sons ... ... ... ... ... ... ... g Jenkinson, J. H., and Others ... ... ... ... ... k Johnson, J. 8., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 21 Johnston, T., and other Licensed Victuallers ......... i<> X Kaitangata and Wangaloa, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... j Kakanui Harbour Board, Chairman of, and Others ... ... ... ... 11 Karamea, Settlers at the ... ... ... ... ... ... ... j* Keast, McCarthy, and other Brewers ... ... ... ... ... y, Kennedy, H., and Others, of Auckland ... ~, Kirk, Father, and Others ... ... ... ... . . h Eirk.T. :;; ;;; ;;; ;;; ;;; 20 L. Laing, G. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... „ Lambert, E. ... ~, ... ... ... ... « Lambly, J. N., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... „„ Laney, J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... „ Learmonth, F. A., and Others (No. 1) ... ... ... ... ..' .« Learmonth, F. A., and Others (No. 2) ... ... ... ... ... , R Levy. J. ... ... ... ... ... a Leys, J. D. ... ... ... ... ... ... . . Little, X. F. ... ... ... ... ... ... |<( Z. ... 2

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Livingstone, W., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 Lockett, Major ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .,, 7 low, W. A, and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 Lowndes, J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 16 Lucas, M. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 17 Lynch, D., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 M. McCarthy, Holt and ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 19 Malfray, J. M. C, and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ]P Malvern and Oxford, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Mander, F., and Others (No. 1) ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Mander, P., and Others (No. 2) ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 Mangawai, Settlers of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 4 Manning, W. B. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 15 Marlborough Teachers' Asiociation, President of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 19 Marsden, Settlers of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Martin, A. P., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Matthews, R. H., and Others ... ... ... ... .,. ... ... ... ... 22 McArthur, G., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 McCarthy, Keast, and other Brewers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 17 McCredie, II., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 21 McCormiek, J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 MeCormick, P., and Others... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 McDonald, Father, and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 McDermott, M. P. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 McDonald, J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 MeFarlane, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 McGahey, A. 0., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 McKeever, W. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 McWilliam, T., and Others... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 4 Mears, W., and Gordon, R.... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 Merrilees, A, and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 Millar, R., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Mills, W. H., and other Assistants at the Hokitika Lunatic Asylum ... ... .,, ... ... 5 Minchin, T., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 14 Mongonui and Bay of Islands, Electors of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 Moran, Bishop, and other Catholics of Otago and Southland ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 Moran, J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 17 Morton, M., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 Mosley, W. A., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Motueka District, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 N. Nairn, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 9 Nancarrow, R, and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Napier, A., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Nelson Fire Brigade ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 17 Nelson, Inhabitants of Provincial District of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Newcastle Riding, Waipa County, Ratepayers in ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 3 Nichol, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 14 Nichols, W. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 3 Nixon, W., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 19 Noble, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 14 North Rakaia Board of Conservators ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 5 o. Oamaru, Presbytery of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 20 Oatts, A. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 17 O'Dwyer, J. D., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 O'Hara, M. D., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 Otago and Southland, Catholics of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 Otago Friendly Societies ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 18 Otago Licensed Victuallers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 Otago Runholders ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 Owake Valley, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Oxford and Malvern, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 P. Pangatotara and Riwaka, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Panmure and Howiek, Catholics of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 Patterson, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 16 Pattie, C. P., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Paul, Father, and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Paul, F. W. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 15 Pearson, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Peattie, \V. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 Port Chalmers, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Porter, T. W. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 16 Presbytery of Oamaru ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 20 Press Agency ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 19 Prosser, W. H., and Others... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 Proudfoot, D. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 19 Parnell Licensed Victuallers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 E. Rakaia North, Board of Conservators ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 5 Rattray, W., and Another ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 16

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Bay, 8., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• 14 Bedwood, Bishop, and Others Beyburn, 8., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• 1 Biverton and Wallace, Settlers of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1* Biwaka and Pangatotara, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Boberts, W. J., and Others... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• 21 Boughan, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• 7 Bout, W., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ... 7 Boxburgh, Besidents of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• ••• 16 Butherford, 8., for Delegates of Borough Councils of Suburbs of Dunedin ... ... ... ... 10 S. Samson, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ••■ ••■ ••• ••• 1 Saunders, M., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ■■• ••• ••• 15 Sclanders, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• >•• •■• 10 Scott, A., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• M Scott, Collie, Wilkinson and ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• ». 22 Shearer, J. ... ... ... ... ... ••• •■• ••• ••• ■•• 13 Shcehy, M. 2 Shephard, J., and Others Shield, R. T. (of 1877) ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ... 6 Shipbuilders and Shipowners of Auckland ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 8 Sinclair, 8., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ■•• ■•• 7 Sinnott, D. ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• — ••• ••• 18 Smith, J., and Others, of the Thames Scottish Bifle Corps ... ... ... ... ... ... 8 Smyth, D., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... •■• ••• ••■ 3 Soall, J. C. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• •■• 7 South Canterbury Fire Brigade ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• .•• 17 Southland and Otago, Catholics of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• 2 Southland, Besidents in County of ... ... ... ... ... ... ■•• •■• ••• 3 Stanton, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• ... 21 Steward, CH. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 Steward, W. J., and Others,.. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• 7 Stitt, A. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 15 Stoney, H. B. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ... 17 Sturgeon, A. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ■•• ■•• 7 T. Tamurnu Highway District, Batepayers of ... ... ... ... ... •■• •■• ••• 9 Taylor, J., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ■•• ••• 13 Taylor, T., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 16 Taylor, Waring, and Others... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1* Thames Scottish Bifle Corps, Members of the ... ... ... ... ... ... ••■ 8 Thomson, A., and Others Thomson, J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••■ 3 Touet, E. Townsend, B. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ••• ■•• 18 V. Vincent County, Settlers 0f... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... •■• ... 1 w. Waikato, Settlers of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••■ 15 Wairarapa, Landowners in the ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1* Wairoa County, Inhabitants of Northern portion of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Waitaki County Council and Batepayers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 20 Waitahuna and Havelock, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 Waitotara, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 18 Wallace and Biverton, Settlers of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 14 Wangaloa and Kaitangata, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Watson, J., and other Licensed Victuallers of Otago ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 Wayne, F., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 5 Webster, G., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 Webster, G. M., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Westland, Settlers of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 Wheeler, J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 Willis, A. J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 Wilkinson, Collie, Scott and ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 Winton, Inhabitants of ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 4 Witty, W. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 Worms, J. L.' ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 21 Wylcs, E., and Others ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 Y. Young, J. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 17

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1878. NEW ZEALAND.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS COMMITTEE. (MB. T. KELLY, CHAIRMAN.)

No. 74. —Joseph Pearson, and other Inhabitants of Oxford and Malvern. Tun petitioners pray that a branch line of railway be constructed to connect the Rangiora and Oxford with the Malvern Railway. No. 87. —Robert Millar, and 44 other Inhabitants of Owake Valley. The petitioners pray that a sum of £1,500 be placed on the estimates to assist in making roads and bridges in their district. I am directed to report, that in the opinion of the Committee, the subject-matter of the above petitions is a question for the consideration of the Government, and the Committee has no recommendation to make. 22nd August, 1878. No. 83. —John McFarlane, and 149 other Residents of Kaitaugata aud Wangaloa Districts. The petitioners pray that a line of railway be constructed from Kaitangata to Wangaloa. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the subject-matter of this petition is one for the consideration of the Government, and that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 22nd August, 1878. No. 86. —Robert Reyburn, and 464 other Settlers of the Electoral District of Marsden. The petitioners pray that a section of the Northern Trunk Railway, from Whangarei to Kamo, be constructed as early as possible. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that this petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 22nd August, 1878. . No. 90. —J. Shepherd, and 522 other Inhabitants of the Provincial District of Nelson. The petitioners pray for the extension of the Nelson line of railway to Foxhill. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the subject-matter of this petition is one for the consideration of the Government, and the Committee has no recommendation to make. 22nd August, 1878. No. 78. —James Samson, and other Settlers of Vincent County. The petitioners pray that a bridge be constructed across the Molyneux at Alexandra. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of this petition is a matter of public policy which the Government should deal with, the Committee is of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 22nd August, 1878. No. 79.— J. D. Leys. The petitioner states that he was wrongfully accused of committing a crime of which he was innocent; and, in face of rebutting evidence, he was arrested and handcuffed by the arresting constable, and conveyed a long distance for trial, at which trial he was acquitted. He prays for inquiry and redress. I am directed to report that the Committee, having made inquiry into the case of the petitioner, is satisfied that he suffered loss and injustice from being arrested on a charge of committing a criminal offence of which he was not guilty, and recommend that he be paid the sum of .£2O to pay him for his loss of time and his expenses. 22nd August, 1878.

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No. 91. —Bishop Moran, and 328 other Roman Catholics of Otago aud Southland. The petitioners pray that their school be placed on a footing of equality with all other schools supported or aided by the State. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of this petition is one of public policy, the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any recommendation to the House, further than that the petition be printed. 22nd August, 1878.

No. 57.— T. F. Little. The petitioner was in the employ of the Provincial Government of Otago, and was subsequently transferred to the Moeraki Harbour Board, and the Board dispensed with his services on the ground of retrenchment. The petitioner prays for compensation for loss of office. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to a retiring allowance in terms of "The Abolition of Provinces Act, 1875." 27th August, 1878.

Claim of H. W. Farnall. [Referred to the Committee by resolution ofthe House, 7th August, 1878.] The petitioner claims payment of salary as Emigration Agent in Ireland for the Auckland Province, to which office he states he was appointed by the late Superintendent of Auckland, John Williamson, Esq. It appears that no salary was named in the letter of appointment, and uo fund provided for properly carrying out the duties of the office; and the petitioner, after remaining eighteen months in Ireland in this capacity, finding that no provision was made by the Provincial Government, returned to New Zealand. The Committee having made inquiry into this case, direct me to report, as follows :— The Committee is of opinion that, taking all the circumstances of the case into consideration, the petitioner is entitled to six months' salary, at the rate of £550 per annum, in full of all claims against the late Province of Auckland and the colony, on account of services rendered as Emigration Agent. 13th September, 1878.

No. 63. —Michael Sheehy. The petitioner prays for consideration for services rendered as hospital dispenser and for visiting the sick at outposts, whilst a sergeant in the Engineer Volunteer Militia Corps, stationed at Ngaruawahia. I am directed to report that, as it appears from the evidence before the Committee that the petitioner was promoted from a private to the rank of sergeant in order to perform the duties that he claims remuneration for, the Committee cannot recommend the petitioner's case to the favourable consideration of the House. 13th September, 1878.

No. 62.—M. P. McDermott. The petitioner states that he was injured by part of the discharge from an Armstrong gun striking him in the chest, whilst watching as a spectator the firing of the Royal salute on the Queen's Birthday, 1869 * and that he has been put to great expense and loss in consequence. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the Government should make specific inquiry into the cost paid by petitioner for medical and other attendance arising out of the wound received by him, and that such cost be refunded him. 13th September," 1878.

No. 41.—A. Merrilees, and other Occupiers of Laud in the Taieri County. The petitioners pray for the construction of a branch line of railway from Green Island to the mouth of the Taieri River. I am directed that, as this is a question of public policy, the Committee is of opinion that it is a matter for the consideration of the Government. 13th September, 1878.

No. 40.—William McKeever. The petitioner prays that his case may again be taken into consideration, and that land may be awarded to him as a military settler. I am directed to report that the Committee see no reason to alter the decision arrived at last session in this case. 13th September, 1878.

No. 39.—John Wheeler. TnE petitioner states that, in answer to an advertisement, he offered to supply a quantity of

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puriri timber to the Government, and the Government agreed to take delivery of the timber the following summer on certain conditions. Petitioner complied with the conditions; but when he commenced to deliver the timber, he was told that timber had already been received in excess of requirements, and that it was not wanted. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to have the verbal contract between himself and the Government, with reference to the delivery of puriri timber carried out, not exceeding the 10,000 feet prepared for delivery. 13th September, 1878.

No. 38. —William Nichols. The petitioner pleaded guilty before the Magistrate of New Plymouth of emptying night-soil into the river, and was fined .€5 and costs. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, with respect to petitioner's case, the Committee do not deem it desirable to interfere with the decision of the Magistrate's Court. 13th September, 1878.

No. 32.— E. Fitzpatrick, and other Ratepayers in Newcastle Riding, Waipa County. The petitioners state that the present system of rating is not adapted for their district. They pray that rating should be on the basis of the value to sell, less improvements. I am directed to report that this petition be referred to the Government for its consideration, the Committee not considering it necessary to make any recommendation, as the question is one of public policy. 13th September, 1878.

No. 11.—D. Smyth, and other Residents, County of Southland. The petitioners pray for the construction of a branch line of railway through the Seaward Forest. I am directed to report that, as the question is one of public policy, the Committee is of opinion that it is one for the consideration of the Government. 13th September, 1878.

No. 7. —William Holland. The petitioner prays for a grant of land as a discharged soldier. I am directedto report that, as petitioner, on his own showing, did not make application for land within twelve months from taking his discharge, which the law provided, the Committee cannot recommend his case to the favourable consideration of the House. 13th September, 1878.

No. 3. —James Thomson. The petitioner prays for compensation for land taken as a public road. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th September, 1878.

No. 6. —W. Garrick. The petitioner states that in 1864, whilst on active duty, he interfered to prevent an assault by two Volunteers on a sentry of the Mth Regiment; and, being mistaken for one ofthe party who committed the assault, he was struck ou the temple with the butt of a rifle, and felled to the ground insensible. Next day he was discharged, and has suffered serious loss and injury, and is unable in consequence to earn his own living. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the Government should make local inquiry into petitioner's case, aud, if found that he is entitled to compensation, that relief be given him. 13th September, 1878.

No. 30. —George Laing. The petitioner states that, whilst endeavouring to serve a summons on C. H. Otway, he was obliged to enter his house, and was assaulted by the said Otway. That, subsequently, Otway laid an information before H. D. Morpeth, J.P., against petitioner, and the said Morpeth issued a warrant for petitioner and his son's apprehension. That petitioner and his two sons were appreheuded, and brought before R. C. Barstow, R.M., and the case was dismissed. Petitioner prays for redress for the harsh and unwarranted treatment he was subjected to by the issue of a warrant, and his subsequent apprehension. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the petitioner's case. 17th September, 1878.

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No. 42.—Thomas Butler. The petitioner prays for a further inquiry into the circumstances of his dismissal from the Nelson Lunatic Asylum. I am directed to report that the case of the petitioner having been fully inquired into and reported on by a Royal Commission during last session, the Committee decline to entertain the application for further inquiry. 17th September, 1878. '

No. 44. —G. Donne. The petitioner states that he purchased an allotment of land of twenty-four acres, situated on the Kaiapoi Island, and that the said land has been taken for the construction of a channel to carry off the flood waters of the Waimakariri River. He prays that compensation be granted him. From inquiries made by the Committee it appears that the petitioner bought the land from a private individual with other land for £45 in the year 1877, some years after the channel had been constructed by local authorities. I am directed to report that the Committee, having taken the petitioner's case into consideration, is of opinion that he has no claim whatever against the colony. 17th September, 1878.

No. 52. —Archibald Cochrane. The petitioner states that he received as a Volunteer a remission certificate of the value of £40, to be exercised in the Province of Auckland, but that, owing to the scrip not having been forwarded to him in time, he was not able to exercise it before the time limited by law. He prays for relief. It appears that the scrip was issued in 1871, and the Volunteer Scrip Act of 1873 provides that scrip then issued must be exercised before October 1874, or it is barred. The provision in "The Waste Land Act, 1876," "The Land Sales Act, 1877," and "The Volunteer Land Act, 1877," the Committee is advised does not revive scrip issued before the Act of 1873 came into operation, and that such scrip is practically cancelled, though it is doubtful whether the contrary was not intended by the Acts of 1876 and 1877. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner should be allowed to exercise his scrip in the purchase of land, and recommends the Government to give effect to this resolution. 17th September, 1878.

No. 65. —G. T. Boldero and Others. The petitioners pray for the construction of a telegraph station at Mangawai. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on this case, it being one for the consideration of the Government. 17th September, 1878.

No. 69.—W. H. Gollop. The petitioner, who is a publican, states that he has been unjustly accused by the Inspector of Wellington Police Force with having been suspected of having committed a larceny in Wellington, and that the said Inspector communicated such suspicion to the police authorities both at Nelson and Napier, when he made application for a publican's license. That he denies the truth of such charges, and prays that an inquiry be made in order to clear his character. I am directed to report that the Committee, having taken the case into consideration, and being advised that the petitioner has a remedy in a Court of law, is of opinion that, if he desires to clear himself from the charges made against him, the Government should give him every facility for the case being investigated in open Court. 17th September, 1878.

No. 72.—A. V. Hiscox. The petitioner states that he has been dismissed from the Railway Department because he was charged with larceny; that the charge is not true, and he prays for inquiry. No. 73. —T. McWilliam and Others, of Winton. The petitioners support A. V. Hiscox's case for inquiry. The Committee, having made inquiry, direct me to report that the Committee, having considered the case of the petitioners, has no recommendation to make to the House. 17th September 1878.

No. 82.—W. Crozier. The petitioner prays that he may be allowed to select sixty acres of land as a discharged soldier. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner has not exercised the right to select land under

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the condition on which the right was given, the Committee cannot recommend his case to the favourable consideration of the House. 17th September 1878. _

No. 84. —F. Wayne and other Settlers in the Glenledi Boad District. The petitioners state that they wish to improve the road communication from their district through the Tokomairiro Boad District to the Township of Milton, and for that purpose they have endeavoured to arrange with the Tokomairiro Boad Board to construct the road on some equitable basis, but have failed to make sucli arrangement; and they pray that the law be altered to compel Boad Boards which lie between centres of population and outlying road districts to make and maintain roads within their boundary which communicate with such outlying road districts. I am directed to report that, as the case of the petitioners appears to be urgent, the Committee recommends that the matter be dealt with by the Government in the Boad Boards Bill now before the Legislature. 17th September, 1878.

No. 99. —J. H. Jenkinson and Others. The petitioners pray for the construction of a bridge across the Kaiou Branch of the Clutha Biver. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make to the House on the subject-matter of this petition, as it involves a question of public policy. 17th September, 1878.

No. 101.—Thomas Hitchings and Others. The petitioners pray for assistance in opening up roads in the Lower Whareama District. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make to the House on the subject-matter of this petition, as it involves a question of public policy. 17th September, 1878.

No. 102. —J. Jebson and Sons. The petitioners state that they have been debarred from the use of railway trucks from the 15th November 1877, and are thereby unable to carry on their business; that they have suffered loss and inconvenience through the arbitrary action of the Bailway authorities, and pray that a strict inquiry be made. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioners, in consequence of their not adhering to the by-laws, have no reasonable cause of complaint against the department, but recommends that the demurrage charged on the trucks be remitted. 17th September, 1878.

No. 103.— J. M. Gibbes. The petitioner states that he received a sun-stroke in November, 1868, whilst on duty as a medical man with the Maori Field Force at Poverty Bay, and has suffered severely from the effects. He prays for consideration. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make to the House on the petitioner's case. 17th September, 1878.

No. 110.—The Noiith Bakaia Board of Conservators. The petitioners pray for assistance to protect the north banks of the Bakaia from the encroachments of the river. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on this case, it being one for the consideration ofthe Government. 17th September, 1878.

No. 113. —W. H. Mills and 4 Other Assistants at the Hokitika Lunatic Asylum. The petitioners state that the rate of pay is inadequate for the arduous duties they have to perform and the long hours of service daily. They also represent the injustice they are subjected to in being charged for their rations above cost price. They pray for redress. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that it is irregular and detrimental to the public service for officers in the service of the colony to petition the House for increase of pay. The Committee refer the petitioners' case to the consideration ofthe Government, as a substantial grievance is alleged with respect to charges for rations over the cost price. 17th September, 1878.

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No. 117. —G. S. Eraser and Others, of the Northern Portion of Wairoa County. The petitioners pray that the electoral boundaries may be altered so that they may be included in the Napier Electoral District, instead of the East Coast Electoral District, in which they are at present. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioners' case is one for the consideration of the Government when the readjustment of the electoral boundaries is being dealt with. 17th September, 1878.

No. 135. —C. P. Pattie and Others, of Pangatotara and Riwaka. The petitioners pray for assistance in forming certain roads. No. 145. —Alexander Thomson and Others, of the Baton District. The petitioners pray for a ferry across the Motueka River. No. 147. —Christian Dencker and Others, of Motueka District. The petitioners pray for the construction of a railway to Motueka. No. 151. —W. Elder and Others, of Port Chalmers. Tni: petitioners pray for the construction of a railway platform. No. 155. —G. M. Webster and Others. The petitioners pray for the construction of a branch railway from Windsor Station to Livingstone. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matters of these petitions arc questions of public policy, the Committee is of opinion that they are matters for the consideration of the Government. 17th September, 1878. No. 158. —James McDonald.

Tin; petitioner prays that compensation be given him for improvements made by him on confiscated lands occupied by him with the consent of the Commissioner of Confiscated Land in 1871, 1872, and 1873, in carrying on the business of a sawmiller in the Waitotara District, as tho offer made by the Government of .£l5O for the improvement made by him is inadequate. It appears from the evidence that the petitioner had no tenure of the land in question further than _ promise of a license to occupy, to cut timber, and an alleged promise that improvements would be protected when the land was offered for sale under the Confiscated Land Sale Regulations. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the offer made by the Government to the petitioner of .£l5O for his improvements was a liberal oue under the circumstances, and, as the petitioner has refused to accept such offer, the Committee decline to make any recommendation in his case. 17th September, 1878.

Richard Thomas Shield (1877). [Referred back to the Committee by Resolution of the House, 29th August, 1878.] The petitioner states'that he has sustained considerable damage owing to the flooding of his land by the flood-waters of the Matarawa Creek, which is caused by the railway embankment blocking up the former outlet for the water; that as the petitioner is advised he has no redress at law, he prays that the House grant him relief. The Committee made inquiry into the case last session, but were unable to make any specific recommendation, as the evidence was defective. Having taken fresh evidence this session, it appears that petitioner has a substantial grievance in the matter of defective provision for letting off the flood-waters which the railway embankment has to a certain extent dammed back on to petitioner's land. I am directed to report that, from evidence before the Committee, it appears that the waterway provided by the Public Works Department to relieve the petitioner's land from flood-water, interfered with by the railway embankment, is not sufficient, and the Committee recommend that the grievance complained of be remedied by the construction of larger water-ways. 17th September, 1878.

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No. 203.—8. Honeyford and Others. No. 204.—A. Sturgeon. No. 205.— F. Mander and Others (No. 1). The petitioners pray for the erection of a railway station at Runciman's Township. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the subject-matters of these petitions is a question for the Government to deal with, and the Committee has no recommendation to make. 25th September, 1878.

No. 178.— J. Rough an and Others. No. 183.—A. P. Martin and Others. No. 202.—Father Paul and Others. No. 209. —Bishop Redwood and Others. No. 210.—Father Kirk and Others. These petitions refer to educational matters. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the subject-matter of these petitions involves questions of public policy, and the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any recommendation to the House. 25th September, 1878.

No. 140. —W. A. Mosley and Others. No. 154.—W. J. Steward and Others. No. 156.— H. Blackett and Others. No. 166.—W. Rout and Others. No. 172. —R. Nancarrow and Others. No. 174.—W. Gardiner and Others. No. 187. —P. McCormick and Others. No. 188.—W. J. Graham and Others. No. 198.—A. Napier and Others. No. 208.— R. Sinclair and Others. No. 211.—Amuri Road Board. No. 212.—East Eyreton Road Board. The petitioners pray for the construction of roads and railways. I am directed to report that, as these petitions involve questions of public policy, the Committee consider they are matters for the Government to deal with. 25th September, 1878.

No. 2.—Major Lockett. The petitioner prays that his claim for consideration for loss of office on short notice, after lengthened service in the Militia and Volunteer Department, be inquired into, and redress afforded him. I am directed to report that the Committee, having made inquiries into this case, is of opinion that the petitioner has no claim for consideration. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 9.— J. C. Soall. The petitioner prays that his system of rifle instruction may have a fair trial by the authorities. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the system of the petitioner should have a fair trial in the direction asked for by him, and that the Government be recommended to give effect to this resolution. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 17.—Michael Hamilton. The petitioner states that he is entitled to land as a discharged soldier, and prays that his claim be taken into consideration, and relief afforded him. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner has no claim for land against the colony. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 18. —Samuel Faloon. The petitioner prays that inquiry be made into his claim for consideration, on account of being deprived of a cottage and acre of land to which he was entitled as an enrolled pensioner. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the Government should carry out the recommendation made by the Committee during last session—viz., that the Government make inquiry, and if it is found that he is entitled to the same consideration as the pensioners named in " The Compensation Act, 1858," of the Province of Auckland, that a similar award be made to him. 2nd October, 1878. 3—l. 2.

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No. 21. —John Levy. The petitioner prays that he be allowed a remission of duty on whiskey used by him in the manufacture of vinegar, provided that the whiskey is rendered unfit for use as a beverage, by adding eleven gallons of water and one gallon of vinegar 10 each gallon of whiskey. The Committee has taken the evidence of Dr. Hector on the subject, and he states that spirit diluted with water and vinegar as proposed can be rectified by distillation by the addition of soda, and there is no method known that will prevent spirit being used as spirit without affecting the quality of vinegar made from it. I am directed to report that, from inquiry made by the Committee, it appears there is no process known by which whiskey can be spoiled for use, which would at the same time admit of its being used in the manufacture of vinegar. The Committee cannot, therefore, recommend the prayer of the petitioner to the favourable consideration of the House. "2nd October, 1878.

No. 24.— J. S. Craig. The petitioner says that his claim for consideration on account of loss sustained by him in consequence of drawing the attention of authorities to irregularities practised in the Engineer Volunteer Militia Corps, in 1875, be inquired into, and relief afforded. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the same consideration be given to the petitioner, on account of his expenses and loss of time, as was given to Messrs. Small and Barlow for their action in the same case, and that the Government be recommended to give effect to this resolution. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 31. —Robert Atkinson. The petitioner, who has been dismissed from the Customs Department in consequence of not reporting irregularities committed by a superior officer, prays that his case may be reconsidered. I am directed to report that the Committee, having again taken the case of the petitioner into consideration, is of opinion that the petitioner has been sufficiently punished for the offence committed, and recommends the Government, if opportunity offers, to give him employment in some other branch of the public service. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 33.—Edward Lambert. The petitioner prays that the House will take into consideration the circumstances of his being discharged from the Militia and Volunteer Department without due notice, and afford him relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in the petitioner's case. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 34. —James Smith and other Members of the Thames Scottish Rifle Corps. The petitioners state that on joining the force " The Volunteer Land Act, 1865," was in operation, by which they would become entitled at the end of five years' service as efficient Volunteers to £30 remission certificate in the purchase of land ; that on the passing of " The Waste Lands Act, 1876," this provision was repealed, and their rights not preserved. They pray that the conditions and privileges under which they joined be maintained. lam directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that all rights to claims for remission certificates on completion of five years as a Volunteei*, aud which had been partially completed before " The Waste Lauds Administration Act, 1876," was brought into operation, should be maintained, and not limited to the three years' service already given as provided by the said Act; and that the Government be recommended to give effect to this resolution. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 43. —Auckland Shipbuilders and Shipowners. The petitioners state that the present system of levying light dues and pilotage fees operates oppressively on the local shipping, and they pray that the whole system be revised w-ith a view to giving relief to the shipping trade. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matters of this petition are questions of public policy, the Committee do not deem it desirable to make any specific recommendation, further thau to refer the petition to the consideration of the Government. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 50.— H. A. Clery. The petitioner states that in June, 1875, when on duty at the Volunteer rifle butts, he was accidentally shot in the left shoulder, which resulted in depriving him almost entirely of the use of his left arm. In consideration of such loss he was employed by the Government up to

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November, 1877. In March, 1878, he was again employed. He prays that, for the period of fourteen months he was out of employment, some consideration be given bim. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner to the favourable consideration of the House. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 54.—Cousins and Aitken. The petitioners pray that the Customs duties be so altered as to give relief with respect to the materials imported by them for the manufacture of carriages, as the present system operates in favour of the importation of carriages, thus discouragiug the establishment of the local industry of carriage building. I am directed to report that, as the question of the alteration of the tariff is now under the consideration of the Government, the Committee is of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 59.—James Laney. The petitioner prays that the report of a former Committee on his case be acted on, viz.: That the case of the petitioner is part of the large question of whether the colony is responsible for injuries arising out of the inability or failure of the Government to protect settlers from outrages on the part of Natives who do not recognize the authority of British law. It is the opinion of this Committee that the whole subject should be inquired into by the House, with a view to its definite settlement. I am directed to report that the Committee see no reason to alter their former decision in this case, and have therefore no recommendation to make to the House. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 71. —Mary Ann Chanhler. The petitioner states that her late husband was a member of the Constabulary Force from 1870 till his death in November, 1877 * that he left the petitioner and ten children unprovided for. She prays that her unfortunate case be taken into consideration aud relief afforded her. I am directed to report that, as the Legislature has not considered it advisable to make provision for the relief of widows of Constabulary officers, the. Committee has no recommendation to make, farther than to suggest that a special co-operation fund should be created to meet such cases. 2nd October, 1878.

N oi 77. —John Nairn and other Ratepayers of Tamumu Highway District, Hawke's Bay. The petitioners pray that the block of land known as the Mangakuri Block be included in the boundaries of their district. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the case of dispute with reference to the boundaries between the Tamumu aud Oero Road Board Districts be inquired into by the Government, aud, after hearing both parties to the case, that such alteration in the boundaries be made as may be deemed advisable. 2nd October, 1878. '

No. 81.— J. C. Chafple. The petitioner, who is an auctioneer, feels aggrieved at the action of the Municipal Council of Alexandra in voting the Mayor, James Simpson, Esq., an auctioneer's license free of cost, which places the petitioner in an unfair position in having to compete with one who pays no fee. He prays that the law be altered so as to prevent such a course of procedure for the future. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make ou the subject matter of this petition. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 85.—W. E. Heywood. The petitioner states that he was born and brought up in Her Majesty's Imperial army, and attained the rank of sergeant-major in the 58th Regiment; he subsequently entered the colonial service, and in 1874 was promoted to the command of the Invercargill District; that recently, in consequence of the Government dispensing with the services of paid officers, his services were dispensed with. He prays that the circumstances of his case be taken into consideration, and relief afforded him. I ara directed to report that, as the petitioner appears to have lost his office owing to reduction made in the Militia and Volunteer Department by the Government, in tbe ordinary course of administration, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 2nd October, 1878.

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No. 92.—Thomas Barnaby. The petitioner states that he entered into an aarangement with the District Engineer of the Public Works Department, Auckland, for the supply of puriri timber at the price of 17s. per hundred superficial feet; but that, for a portion of the timber, a deduction of 2s. per hundred has been made, depriving him of the sum of £68 Bs. 9d., to which he is entitled. He prays for redress. I am directed to report that, from the evidence produced, it appears that the petitioner accepted payment from the Government at rates varying from 17s. 6d. to 15s. per hundred, as shown on certificate from time to time issued to him, and that he appears to have accepted such payment without protest. The Committee cannot therefore recommend the petitioner's claim to the favourable consideration of the House. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 93.— F. H. Escott. The petitioner claims for pay to which he states that he is entitled as drill-sergeant to the Riverton Rifle Volunteer Corps, having been so engaged by the officers of that corps. I am directed to report that, from the evidence before the Committee, it does not appear that any ministerial authority was given to the Volunteer Corps in question to employ the petitioner; the Committee cannot therefore recommend his case to the favourable consideration of tbe House. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 120.— R. Rutherford, on behalf of the Delegates of the Borough Councils of St. Kilda, South Dunedin, Caversham, Mornington, Maori Hill, North-East Valley, and West Harbour. The petitioners pray that an Act be passed constituting a Water Board to be elected by the ratepayers of Dunedin and the boroughs the petitioners represent, for the purpose of supplying water and levying rates. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make to the House on this case, it being one for the consideration of the Government whether legislative action is necessary to remedy the grievances complained of. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 126.—Francis Connelly. The petitioner states that lie is entitled to sixty acres of land as a discharged soldier, but that he only obtained forty acres. He prays that relief be afforded him. I am directed to report that the Committee, having made inquiry into the petitioner's case, can obtain no evidence on the subject, and has therefore no recommendation to make to the House. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 184. —F A. Learmonth and Others (No. 1). No. 216.—James Sclanders and Others. No. 218.— J. M. C. Malfray and other Settlers of Westland. No. 220.—Ashley Road Board. No. 228.— E. Ford and Others. The petitioners pray for the construction of railways in their districts. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matters of these petitions involves questions of public policy, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 137.—James McCormick The petitioner states that he was enrolled as a Volunteer in 1868, but owing to illness was unable to complete the term which would enable him to claim the remission certificate under " The Volunteer Land Act, 1865." That he again joined the Volunteer Force, and became an efficient Volunteer iv 1871, but that, in consequence of the operation of " The Waste Lands Act, 1876," he is deprived of his claim to a remission certificate. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that rights for claims to remission certificates on completion of five years as a Volunteer, and which had been partially compeletel before "The Waste Lauds Administration Act, 1876," was brought into operation, should be maintained, and not limited to the three years' service already given, as provided by the said Act, and that the Government be recommended to give effect to this resolution. 2nd October, 1878.

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No. 215.—John McArthur and other Ratepayers, Amuri District. The petitioners pray for a refund of moneys expended by them in road-making. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make to the House on the subject-matter of this petition. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 217. —Father McDonald and Others. No. 221.—M. D. O'Hara and Others. No. 222.—Father Fynes and Others. No. 224.—Father Kelly and Others. No. 231. —Catholics of Panmure and Howick. No. 236.—D. Lynch and Others. No. 237.— J. D. O'Dwyer and Others. The petitioners pray for certain amendments in the Education Act. I am directed to report that the subject-matter of these petitions being a question of public policy, the Committee do not consider it necessary to offer any opinion to the House. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 214.—W. A. Low and Others. No. 227.—M. Morton, Chairman of the Kakanui Harbour Board, and Others. The petitioners pray for assistance towards certain local works. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the subject-matter of these petitions are matters for the consideration of the Government. 2nd October, 1878. No. 234. —Donald Cameron. The petitioner states that in January, 1877, he entered into a contract with the Postal Department for the delivery of the mail by four-horse coach between Hokitika and Greymouth, for the term of two years. That the passenger traffic by his coach was injuriously affected by the opening of the tramway between Kumara and Greymouth in May, 1877. He prays that his case be taken into consideration, and relief given him. From the evidence taken by the Committee, it appears that petitioner applied in June, 1877, to be relieved from the coach service between Kumara and Greymouth • au application it appears was made to the department, and, under the circumstances, it was inclined to agree to it, on provision being made for the conveyance of the mails by the Tramway Company. Mr. Cameron failed to make any arrangement until November, 1877, when the Government relieved him of that part of his contract. I am directed to report that the Committee, having made inquiry into the petitioner's case, is of opinion that he is not entitled to compensation for alleged losses in carrying out his mail contract. • 2nd October, 1878.

No. 240.— J. Watson aud Other Licensed Victuallers, Otago. The petitioners pray that the Bill imposing a tax on beer may not become law. I am directed to report that the subject-matter of this petition being one of public policy, the Committee do not consider it necessary to offer any opinion to the House. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 242. —Borough Council of Gisborne, Cook County Council, and 389 Electors. The petitioners pray for the construction of certain public works. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the subject-matter of the petition is a question of policy as to the construction of public works, which the Government should consider and deal with. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 247. —Hugh Kennedy and Others, of Auckland. The petitioners pray that " The Education Act 1877 Amendment Act, 1878," may not become law. I am directed to report that the subject-matter of this petition, being a question of public policy, the Committee do not consider it necessary to offer any opinion to the House. 2nd October, 1878.

No. 249. —Francis Mander and Others (No. 2). The petitioners pray for assistance in forming roads iv their district. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the subject-matter of this petition is oue for the County Council to deal with. The Committee has therefore no recommendation to make to the House. 2nd October, 1878.

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No. 51. —Charles Henry Steward. The petitioner prays that the House will grant him compensation for the loss he sustained in being compelled to abandon his farm, and a portion of his effects and live stock, at Rahui Pokeke, in the Waikato District, in 1868, on the alarm consequent on the massacre at Poverty Bay by Te Kooti, and was ultimately compelled to sell his farm at a great sacrifice. I am directed to report that, as this is a claim for consequential losses arising out of Native disturbances in the frontier settlements, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th October, 1878.

No. 61.—Robert Gordon and William Mears. The petitioners pray that their claim for compensation for loss sustained by them in obtaining restoration to the rank in the Thames Rifle Ranger Volunteers, of which they had been unjustly deprived by the captain commanding the corps, receive the consideration of the House, and that relief be afforded tliem. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that there is no cause shown why, under the circumstances of the case, the colony is responsible for compensating the petitioners for any expenses they incurred in reinstating themselves as members of the Volunteer corps. 9th October, 1878.

No. 88. —Patrick Gormon and other Licensed Victuallers of Auckland. No. 89. —Thomas Johnston and other Licensed Victuallers of Parnell. The petitioners pray that the liabilities of the licensed victuallers in the Provincial District of Auckland, especially in the matter of license fees and the burning of lights outside their houses, be assimilated to those of the licensed victuallers in the Southern Island. I am directed to report that, as the question of the licensing law is now under the consideration of the Government with a view of bringing iv a Licensing Rill, the Committee is of opinion that these petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th October, 1878.

No. 108. —William Witty. The petitioner claims consideration from the House on account of military services rendered by him in the Waikaremoana couutry against Te Kooti—services^ which were recognized by the Government in lh7o. I am directed to report that the Committee, having inquired into the petitioner's case, find there is no sufficient evidence available to enable it to come to a decision. The Committee therefore recommend the Government to make inquiry into this case, with the view of giving such relief as petitioner may be found entitled to. 9th October, 1878.

No. 157.—William Peattie. The petitioner states that he has sustained a loss of £235 on account of damage received by a threshing mill of his while in the custody of the Railway Department, the loss being actual damage and destruction of mill, and loss of profitable contracts on account of his known inability to perform them in consequence of the damage his mill sustained, and the delay and uncertainty of making it fit for work. lie further states that he was deprived of his legal remedy by the Government raising technical objections in Court, which prevented the matter being dealt with on its merits. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the Government should waive any technical objections that would prevent the petitioner from having his claim decided on its merits in a Court of law. 9th October, 1878.

No. 175.—Charles Dromgool. The petitioner prays that inquiry be made into his claim for payment for five hundred railway sleepers delivered by him, and that relief be afforded. It appears, from the evidence before the Committee, that the petitioner failed to complete a contract he entered into with the Government, and that the non-payment ofthe price ofthe sleepers is in the nature of a penalty for non-performance of contract. I am directed to report that the Committee, having considered the case of the petitioner, cannot recommend his claim to the favourable consideration of the House. 9th October, 1878.

No. 197. —J. R. Charlton. The petitioner prays that compensation be awarded him on account ofthe loss sustained owing to the Maoris driving his father and family from freehold property held by them in Kawhia

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in 1865, on which they had lived and carried on business since 1853. That such compensation will enable him to resume possession of the property, which he believes the Natives will now allow him to occupy. I am directed "to report that the Committee is of opinion that fair compensation should be given to direct loss occasioned by the act of rebel Natives, and that the matter should be inquired into by tbe Government, with a view to some settlement of such claims; but, with respect to this special case, the Committee has no opinion to offer to the House. 9th October, 1878.

No. 235. —Henry Hardington, The petitioner prays that inquiry be made into the circumstances arising out of the accidental killing of a Maori by a man named Huntley, in Auckland, in 1854, when the petitioner was the means of preventing the Maoris from killing Huntley and his family in revenge, and that such recognition of his services be given as the House may deem fit. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make to the House on the subject-matter of this petition. 9th October, 1878.

No. 239.—W. Livingstone and Others of the Town of Havelock and the District of Waitahuna, Provincial District of Otago. The petitioners pray that the House will authorize and direct the expenditure of a sufficient sum of money for the erection of a post office in Havelock. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the subject-matter of this petition is one for the consideration of the Government. 9th October, 1878.

No. 248.—John Carroll and Others. The petitioners pray that inquiry be made into their claim for further payment due to them on account of contracts with the Government for delivery of puriri timber. I am directed to report that, as the Government has agreed to appoint a Commission to inquire into the petitioners' grievance with respect to the contract for the delivery of puriri timber for railway purposes, the Committee do not consider it necesssary to offer any opinion to the House. 9th October, 1878.

No. 251.—C. Basstian and other Ruhholders, Otago. The petitioners pray that a sufficient sum be placed on the estimates to pay the bonus offered on rabbit skins by "The Rabbit Nuisance Act 1876 Amendment Act, 1877/' I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of this petition is now under the consideration of the House, the Committee do not consider it necessary to offer any opinion. 9th October, 1878.

No. 66.—C. Aldridge and Others. The petitioners were members of a party engaged in constructing a line of telegraph from Blenheim to Top House, and owing to the accidental firing of the camp, their clothing and other property were destroyed. They pray the House to afford them relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make in the petitioners' case. 15th October, 1878.

No. 95.—Joseph Taylor and Others. The petitioners pray that a light suspension foot bridge be constructed across the Grey River, between Wallsend aud Taylorville. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make, the question being one for the consideration of the Government. 15th October, 1878.

No. 109.—John Shearer. The petitioner states that he has been illegally imprisoned for disposing, in his capacity of master, of the cargo of a stranded vessel; that he has been discharged without money or clothes, so that he cannot seek redress nor obtain employment at his profession. He prays that his case be taken into consideration, and relief afforded him. I am directed to report that the Committee inquired into this case last session, and recommended the Government to make inquiry into the matter and afford relief, if the equity of the case demanded it. The Committee are still of opinion that the recommendation be given effect to. 15th October, 1878.

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No. 112.—Waring Taylor and 204 other Settlers and Landowners in the Alfredton and other Districts of the Wairarapa. The petitioners pray that certain Crown lands known as the Mungaroaßlock be opened up for settlement by the making ofthe road between Alfredton and Eketahuna. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of this petition is one of public policy, the Committee consider that it is a question for the consideration of the Government. 15th October, 1878.

No. 114.—Thomas Minchin and 699 Others of Grey and Buller Districts. The petitioners pray that some voice and control be given to the County Councils of Grey and Buller over the administration of waste lands within their district. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of this petition is one of public policy, the Committee consider the question one to be dealt with by the Government. 15th October, 1878.

No. 115. —J. and N. Campbell. The petitioners pray that inquiry be made in the case of the rejection of their tender for the construction of light railways sent into the late Provincial Government of Otago, and that relief be afforded them. I am directed to report that the Committee, having made inquiry into the petitioners' case, find that on two separate occasions their grievance has been inquired into and dealt with by the Provincial Council of Otago; the Committee do not therefore consider it expedient to again institute an inquiry into a case that has been decided on by the Government on which the responsibility devolved. 15th October, 1878.

No. 116.— J. Nichol and other Residents of Campbelltown. The petitioners pray that Campbelltown be constituted a municipality. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the prayer of the petitioners be complied with. 15th October, 1878.

No. 122.—John Noble and 10 other Settlers of Forest Hill, Southland. The petitioners state that the Makarewa Road Board and the Southland County Council have closed the road running through Section 44, Block VIII., New River Hundred, in direct violation of clause 92 of " The Public Works Act, 1876." They pray that the decision of the said Council be overruled by the House. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that if the grievances the petitioners allege are true they have a remedy at law; the Committee do not, therefore, deem it necessary to make any recommendation to the House. 15th October, 1878.

No. 123. —Thomas Devonshire and other Settlers of Wallace and Riverton. The petitioners pray that the east-northerly boundary of the Electoral District of Wallace and Riverton be the Oreti River. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the subject-matter of this petition is one to be dealt with by the Government when the question of redistribution of electoral districts is under consideration. The Committee do not, therefore, consider it necessary to make any recommendation to the House. 15th October, 1878.

No. 124. —Robert Ray and 40 other Settlers at the Karamea. The petitioners pray that the port be connected with the districts north and south by roads, and that a sum of £1,000 be placed on the Estimates for that purpose. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make, the question being one for the consideration of the Government. 15th October, 1878.

No. 131.—Thomas Colson. The petitioner states that a public road has been taken through his land, for which he has received no compensation. He prays that relief be afforded him. From evidence taken by the Com/littee it appears that the case was inquired into by the Provincial Council of Taranaki some twenty years ago, and the claim recognized, but it also appears that no compensation has been paid, and that the road has been used by the public without interruption since that period. I am directed to report that the Committee, having inquired into the petitioner's case, is of opinion that no claim for compensation has been established against the colony, as it appears that the public has had uninterrupted use of the road for over twenty years; but the Committee consider that the petitioner should have the soil of any disused roadway abutting on his land vested in him, or a portion of such roadway, so that other private rights may not be interfered with. 15th October, 1878.

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No. 136.—W. B. Manning. The petitioners prays that £9 7s. 6d., the balance of salary due to him, be paid. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the Government should pay the petitioner the arrears of salary due as ferryman. 15th October, 1878. "

No. 165.—Alexander Stitt. The petitioner prays that the balance of the sum awarded him by the Public Petitions Committee be paid him. I am directed to report that, as it appears the Government has made provision for the grievance complained of by the petitioner, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 15th October, 1878.

No. 171.—A li-red Cox and 219 other Settlers of Waikato. The petitioners give a resume of the case of the Auckland City Inspector of Sheep versus Thomas Jolly, sheepfarmer, Waikato, from which it appears that Jolly was fined .€5, and £14 costs, for suffering sheep infected with scab to be driven along a highway. The petitioners state that Jolly had a clean certificate from the Waikato Inspector, and sent in his sheep to Auckland for sale, and it appears to them very unjust that after sheep are passed by the District Inspector they arc still liable to have their sheep condemned when they arrive in the Auckland market. They pray that relief be afforded him. I am directed to report that the Committee, having considered the petitioner's case, is of opinion that it should be inquired into by the Government, as the matter is one of considerable importance to flock-owners. 15th October, 1878.

No. 179. —Frederick Williams Paul. The petitioner states that, while employed as a marker at the Maori range during the exercise of a squad in class firing, on the 2nd September, 1876, he was wounded in the right eye by a splinter of lead from a bullet coming off the target, by which he has beeu deprived of the sight of his wounded eye. He prays that his case he taken into consideration, and relief afforded him. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to some compensation for the injury he has sustained, and recommend his claim to the consideration of the Government. The Committee is further of opinion that, from the frequent occurrence of accidents arising out of defective arrangements for protecting markers, the Government should at ouce give instructions for the initiation of a perfect system of protection. 15th October, 1878.

No. 186.—94 Jackson's Bay Settlers. The petitioners pray that the jetty at Jackson's Bay be completed without delay, and that one of the Government steam-launches be stationed there. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the subject-matter of this petition is one for the Government to consider and deal with. 15th October, 1878. .

No. 196.—Samuel John Edmonds. The petitioner prays that compensation be granted to him for loss sustained by the rebel Natives burning his vessel, the cutter " Kate/ in the Whakatane River, 1865. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that fair compensation should be given for direct loss occasioned by the act of rebel Natives, and that the matter should be inquired into by the Government, with a view to some settlement of such claims; but, with respect to this special case, the Committee has no opinion to offer to the House. 15th October, 1878.

No. 243.—Michael Saunders and other Roman Catholics. The petitioners state that they have conscientious scruples against the present Education Act, and pray that it be amended so as to include provisions similar to the Act known as the Nelson Education Act. I am directed to report that the subject-matter of this petition being one of public policy the Committee do not consider it necessary to offer any opinion to the House. 15th October, 1878.

No. 244.— E. Touet. The petitioner states that the Bench of Magistrates at Nelson has practically cancelled a deed between himself and tenant, by decision of the Court, in reducing permanently the rent, which he only agreed should be of a temporary character. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee being of opinion that the petitioner has a legal remedy, has therefore no recommendation to make to the House. 15th October, 1878. A—l. 2.

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No. 280.—Hawke's Bay Agricultural and Pastoral Society. The petitioners pray that a remission of the duty charged on cups given as prizes by their Society he made to them. I am directed to report that the Ccmmittce cannot recommend any alteration of the law with regard to a remission of duty on plate and plated ware in favour of agricultural societies. 15th October, 1878.

No. 316.— T. W. Porter. The petitioner states that he has served the colony for fifteen years as private and effieer in active service against rebel Natives, during which he received three wcunds, and in several civil departments, and that, owing to a policy of retrenchment, Ihe Government has dispensed with his services, but, owing to the fact that military service docs not legally entitle him to consideration under the Civil Service Act, he has received no consideration for loss of permanent employment. He prays the House to consider his case and grant him relief. The Committee find the petitioner did render service to the colony in a military capacity at a period when such services were essentially valuable, and ought not to go unrewarded. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to consideration on account of the special services rendered to the colony as an officer engaged in active operations against the rebel Natives on the East and West Coasts from 1866 to 1869, and therefore recommend the Government to deal favourably with his application. 17th October, 1878.

No. 304. —Joseph Lowndes. The petitioner states, on behalf of himself and others engaged in the fish and oyster trade, that they view with alarm the intention of Government to pass a new Fisheries Bill this session. That some of the provisions of the proposed Bill will tend to destroy the trade and ruin the persons engaged in it. He prays that their views may receive favourable consideration. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petition be referred to Government for consideration. 17th October, 1878.

No. 146.—Ann Coomres and James Grove. The petitioner, Ann Coombes, prays for inquiry into the circumstances which, she alleges, tended to hasten the death of her late husband. The petitioner, James Groove, prays that an inquiry be instituted into the circumstances connected with his action in the above case, and especially into the circumstances of his committal for trial on an action for libel instituted against him by one of the members of the Wakefield School Committee, on account of a letter he wrote to the Board of Education, showing how harshly the Wakefield School Committee treated the schoolmaster, Mr. Coombes. Erom inquiry made by the Committee, it appears that the School Committee appears to have acted harshly towards the schoolmaster and the petitioner, James Groove, and that the petitioner, James Groove, only acted with ordinary humanity in protesting to the Education Board with respect to the arbitary acts of the Committee. With respect to Ann Coombes the Committee has not directed me to make any report ■ but with respect to James Groove 1 am directed to report as follows: — That the Committee recommend that the petitioner be paid the cost of defending the action instituted against him for libel—namely, £31 lis.—as the Committee consider that the case ought not to have been sent to the Supreme Court. 21st October, 1878.

No. 256.—W. Rattray and Another. No. 272.—A. Scott and Others. The petitioners pray that certain amendments be made in the Education Act, which will bring it more into harmony with their views. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of these petitions involves a question of public policy, the Committee do uot consider it necessary to offer any opinion to the House. 21st October, 1878.

No. 260.—James Paterson and Others. No. 283. —Residents of Roxburgh. No. 287. —Thomas Taylor and Others. No. 288.—W. J. G. Bluett and others. No. 314.—P. A. Learmonth and Others (No. 2). The petitioners pray for the construction of certain railways and bridges in their districts. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of these petitions involve questions of public policy, the Committee do not consider it necessary to offer any opinion to the House. 21st October, 1878.

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No. 265.—Dunedin Fire Brigades. No. 266.—Nelson Fire Brigade. No. 270. —Canterbury Fire Brigades. No. 281.—Hawke's Bay Fire Brigade. No. 300. —South Canterbury Fire Brigade. No. 33-1. —Hokitika Volunteer Fire Brigade. The petitioners pray that the members of Fire Brigades may receive free passes ou the New Zealand Railways, when travelling on duty, or to take part in the demonstrations of the Fire Brigades for practice. I am directed to report that, as the Government has announced that they intend to deal with the subject-matter of these petitions, the Committee do not deem it necessary to make any recommendation. 21st October, 1878.

No. 267.—Messrs. Hooper and Dodson. No. 271. —Messrs. Keast, McCarthy, and other Brewers. The petitioners pray that the House will reconsider the Bill for imposing a duty on beer. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the subjectmatter of these petitions. 21st October, 1878.

No. 285. —John Young. No. 286. —Mattis Lucas. No. 305.—James Moran. No. 320.—Thomas Hawke. The petitioners pray for inquiry into the circumstances under which they delivered a quantity of puriri timber to the Government, owing to au advertisement which appeared in the Auckland Herald, and the non-payment of certain sums of money which they allege are due to them. I am directed to report that, as the Government has agreed to appoint a Commissioner to inquire into the petitioners' grievances with respect to contracts for the delivery of puriri timber for railway purposes, the Committee do not consider it necessary to offer auy opinion to the House.

21st October, 1878. No. B.—II. B. Stoney. The petitioner states that, in 1865, he applied to the Auckland Provincial authorities for a grant of 600 acres of land for military services in the Taranaki and Waikato wars, and subsequently to the General Government ■ that he has not received the land, or any compensation. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, from the evidence before the Committee, it does not appear that petitioner was entitled to a grant of laud as au officer retired from the Imperial service * but, if such a claim existed, he does not appear to have taken such action as the law required to establish it within the time allowed. The Committee cannot therefore recommend the case to the favourable consideration of the House. 22nd October, 1878.

No. 5.— T. H. Biggs. The petitioner states he obtained his discharge from the 58th Regiment, and applied for a grant of land as a discharged soldier. This application has never been granted. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, the petitioner not having complied with the terms of the Act under which land was granted to discharged soldiers, the Committee cannot recommend the petitioner's case. 22nd October, 1878.

No. 1. —Anne Oatts. The petition states that iv 1819 her late husband paid to the New Zealand Company the sum of £80, entitling him to select a block of ten acres of suburban land in the settlement of Otago. Such selection has not been made, aud there is now no land available for selection within the original Otago Block. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to land scrip to the amount of £30, available in the purchase of waste lands in the Otago Provincial District, aud recommend the Government to give effect to this resolution. 22nd October, 1878.

No. 309. —James Coutts Crawford. The petitioner prays that his claim for a pension equal to half his salary at the time of his retirement be inquired into, aud relief afforded him. I am directed to report that, as "The Civil Service Act, 1866," defines what the retiring allowance of a civil servant shall be, the Committee do not consider it necessary to offer any opinion to the House in the petitioner's case. 23rd October, 1878.

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No. 252.—Friendly Societies of the Provincial District of Otago. The petitioners state that they obtained a lease of five acres of land at Sawyer's Bay from the Provincial Government of Otago in 1874, and that a promise of an additional acre was made to them by the Superintendent of Otago, and on the faith of that promise they occupied and planted the laud. They now find that a lease of the said acre of laud has been granted to Mr. Willis, by which they are injuriously affected, as it takes away their frontage to the railway. They pray for redress. The Committee find that this lease to Mr. Willis was duly granted in April, 1876, on the authority of the Provincial Executive by executive minute dated Bth February, 1875, the previous promise of the land alleged to have been made having apparently been forgotten. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that under the circumstances of the case the Government should aid the Friendly Societies iv obtaining legal possession of the land leased to Mr. Willis under " The Sawyer's Bay Leasing Ordinance, 1874," Province of Otago. 23rd October, 1878.

No. 290. —Robert Townsend. The petitioner states that he joined Her Majesty's 53rd Regiment in 1851, and from 1853 to 1862 served in India; that in 1866 he joined the permanent staff of the Taranaki Volunteers as bugler; that in 1877 he got wounded in his arm while on duty at the rifle butts, which wound has disabled him from following his occupation as musician. He prays that enquiry be made, and relief afforded him. I am directed to report that, the Committee is of opinion that the Government should make enquiry into the petitioner's case, and if found equitably entitled to consideration, that relief be afforded him. 23rd October, 1878.

No. 167.—John Dougherty and Thomas Hayes. The petitoners pray for relief on account of sixty-one head of cattle which they drove from the Kaikoura District, with the view of selling them on the West Coast, and which cattle were killed by order of the Kaikoura Cattle Inspector, in the Ahaura River, at a place called Haupiri. I am directed to report that as it appears that the petitioners removed the cattle from an infected district, contrary to law, tho Committee canuot recommend their claim to the favourable consideration of the House. 24th October, 1878.

No. 298.—C. A. Durie and others, of Waitotara. The petitioners state that, they entered into au agreement with the Government to secure the Government against any actual loss that might happen from the establishment of a Telegraph Statiou at Waitotara, and they complain that they are called upon to make good loss arising from debiting the Telegraph Station with charges which ought to be partially borne by the Post Office. They pray for redress. I am directed to report that the Committee see no reason to disturb the present arrangements. 24th October, 1878.

No. 315. —James Grave. The petitioner states that, a sum of £75 ss. 9d. is clue to him from the late Provincial Government of Otago, for wharfage paid on 317 tons of coal supplied for the use of the railway at Oamaru. He prays that his case may be considered, and relief afforded him. I am directed to report that in the opinion of the Committee the sum of £75 ss. 9d. be paid by the Government to the petitioner, and that the amount be refunded to the Government by the Oamaru Harbour Board. 24th October, 1878.

No. 164.—Henry Dent Gardiner. The petitioner states that he lost over 3,000 bushels of wheat owing to a fire caused by a spark from a railway engine. He prays for relief. No. 321. —David Sinnott. The petitioner states that he lost a stack of hay aud some drays and other property in a fire caused by a spark from a railway engine. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that with respect to damage caused by negligence on the part of the Railway Department, the person injured should be placed in the position of beiug able to recover, by action in Courts of law; but with respect to these special cases the Committee has no recommendation to make. 25th October, 1878,

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No. 245. —Joseph Colesby. The petitioner states that he had to abandon his stock and land at White Cliff, at the time of the massacre at that place. That he suffered great loss in consequence, and finally was obliged to sell the land below its value, and has not yet recovered from the losses he sustained. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make to the House in the petitioner's case. 25th October, 1878.

No. 253. —S. Baigent and Others. No. 255. —President of the Marlborough Teacher's Association. The petitioners state that it has been ruled that the Education Board have power to appoint and remove teachers without consulting the School Committee. They pray that the Education Act may be so amended and worded that the School Committee shall, in all cases, have a voice in the appointment and removal of teachers. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that these petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 25th October, 1878.

No. 269. —Blenheim Fire Brigade. The petitioners pray that members of Fire Brigades may be granted free passes on the railways when travelling on duty and to demonstrations of Fire Brigades. I am directed to report that, as the Government has announced that they intend to deal with the subject-matter of this petition, the Committee do not deem it necessary to make any recommendation. 25th October, 1878.

No. 302. —Alexander Crawford. The petitioner prays for some compensation for loss sustained through the Licensing Court, held at Hamilton in July, 1877, refusing to grant him a license for an hotel he had bought. I am directed to report that the Committee do not consider it advisable to review the action of the Licensing Commission in granting or refusing the issue of a license to a public-house. 25th October, 1878.

No. 318. —Edwin Clarke. The petitioner states that, in April, 1872, his services as messenger in the Native Department were dispensed with, after an inquiry into a petty charge marie against him; and that he has received no compensation for loss of office. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee see no sufficient cause to review the decision of a Board that inquired into and dealt with this case in 1871. 25th October, 1878.

No. 330.— W. Nixon- and Others. The petitioners pray that the Government will take the necessary steps for alienating that portion of the Tramway Reserve commencing at the western corner of Section No. 13,574, and terminating at the eastern corner of Section No. 9,544, on the Ellcsmcre Road Board map. I am directed to report that the Committee are of opinion that the subject-matter of this petition is one for the consideration of the Government. 25th October, 1878.

No. 346.—Messrs. Holt and Macartiiv of the Press Agency. The petitioners state that they carry on the business of Press telegraph ageuts, and they pray that they may have equal rights ami facilities for using the telegraph throughout the colony as are granted to any other persons carrying ou the same business as themselves. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that, with reference to the Press Agency, or Press Agencies, no monopoly should be granted, and that all newspapers, whether evening or morning papers, and Press Agencies in the colony, should be placed with regard to telegraph on an equal footing, and therefore recommends the prayer of the petition, embodied in section 3, to the favourable consideration of the House. 29th October, 1878.

No. 329. —David Proudfoot. The petitioner states that he was one of the promoters of the Dunedin and Port Chalmers Railway, and that, iv the year 1873, the promoters sold their interest in the said railway to the

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Government, but that, as legal possession had not been acquired of all the land required for the railway, the promoters entered into an agreement with the Government that the lands to be obtained were to be valued, the promoters to pay the value of the lands so ascertained, and the Government were then to acquire the land. The right of taking the railway through the land of Mrs. Ritchie was valued at £50, and paid by the promoters ; but the Government failed to acquire the right of so taking the railway. Mrs. Ritchie entered an action against petitioner and others, the remaining promoters of the said railway, and they were advised to compromise the said action by paying the sum of £312 10s. Their costs in the said action amounted to £100 18s., making a total of £413 Bs., which they pray be paid to them. The Committee find that this case is a rather intricate one. Mrs. Ritchie had two claims, one for trespass, and one for right of taking the railway through her land. The claim for trespass arose before the Government bought the railway* and the Government appears to have delayed acquiring the right to take the railway through the land, fearing that they would be involved in damages for trespass which the promoters ought to have satisfied. The promoters, on the other hand, might have acquired the right of taking the railway through the land under " The Land Clauses Consolidation Act, 18G3," but neglected to do so. The ultimate heavy payment of £413 Bs. resulted from want of diligence ou the part of the promoters, and also want of diligence on the part ofthe Government in acquiring the land under their respective powers. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that, taking all the circumstances of the case into consideration, the petitioner is entitled to the sum of £150, on the condition that he surrenders to the Government all the rights he has obtained from Mrs. Ritchie. 29th October, 1878.

No. 335.—The Presbytery of Oamaru. The petitioners state that certain funds were set apart by the Presbyterian Church of Otago for a library endowment in any university or college that might be established in Otago, on condition that the professors should be appointed by the Trustees with the concurrence of the Synod. They learn that a Bill has been introduced which proposes to deprive the Trustees and Synod of the power conferred upon them by " The Presbyterian Church of Otago Land Act, I860." They pray that the Bill may not become law. I am directed to report that as the House has already dealt with the matter referred to in the petition the Committee do not deem it necessary to make any recommendation. 29th October, 1878.

No. 350.—Thomas Kirk. The petitioner is the present owner of part of section 10, block 8, East Taieri, sold by the Government to Walter Blackie, the said Walter Blackie obtaining access to it by the front part of the said section, subsequently the front part of the section was sold by the Government, but no right of road was reserved to the back portion of the section sold to Blackie. The petitioner prays that redress be afforded him. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to a road to his land, and recommend the Government to use its influence with the Road Board of the District to take a road through Mr. Charters's land from the Brown Road under " The Public Works Act, 187G," at the cost of the petitioner. 29th October, 1878.

No. 259.—William Colenso. The petitioner states that for twenty years he has been a provincial officer of Hawkc's Bay in various capacities, and prays that compensation be allowed him for loss of office. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to the same compensation as other provincial officers similarly situated who have been superseded by " The Abolition of Provinces Act, 1875," and recommends the Government to give effect to this opinion. 29th October, 1878.

No. 348. —The Waitaki Countr Council and the District Board and Rate pai; _rs of tbe "VVaitaki Boad District. The petitioners pray that a sum of £6'oi) be placed on the supplementary estimates for the purpose of recouping the Council and the Eoad Board the amount incurred in opening the line of road through pre-emptive right No. 2229, within the Waitaki Road District. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make to the House on the subject-matter of this petition. 29th October, 1878.

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No. 346. —Alex. Grant. The petitioner, who is a school teacher, complains of the action of the Auckland Board of Education for threatening him with censure or punishment without giving him an opportunity of being heard in self defence. He prays for redress. I am directed to report that the Committee recommend the Minister for Education to inquire into the petitioner's case. 29th October, 1878.

No. 341.— J. L. Worms. The petitioner complains of persecution by a detective in the Armed Constabulary and by the master of the Industrial School, Auckland; and he prays for inquiry. I am directed to report that, as the law provides for the proper custody of children of the ages named in the petition, the Committee sees no reason to make any recommendation. The Committee further refer the petition to the consideration of the Government, as it involves a charge against the police in Auckland, as also the management of an institution which receives Government subsidy. 29th October, 1878.

No. 342.— J. Stanton and Others. The petitioners state that they suffer from the overflow of the "Waimakariri River, caused, they allege, by railway protective works. They pray that the water-way at the Kaiapoi railway bridge may be enlarged, and openings made in the railway embankment in various places. I am directed to report that the Committee are of opinion that the subject-matter of this petition is one for the consideration of the Government. 29th October, 1878.

No. 341. —Edward Earl. The petitioner states that some years ago he purchased fifty acres of land near Tauranga. The road from Tauranga to the Thames has been taken through his land • that, on account of the manner the road was laid out, the land has been depreciated in value; and he prays for compensation . I am directed to report that the Committee, having made inquiry into the case, recommend the Government to deal with the petitioner in the same way in which similar cases have been dealt with in the Tauranga District. 29th October, 1878.

No. 310.—Michael Hayman. The petitioner states that, when Mackaytown was gazetted a Government township, he built a large hotel and started business as a publican there. That, when the Government Offices were removed to Paeroa, his business was ruined in consequence. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee have no recommendation to make in the petitioner's case. 29th October, 1878.

No. 337.—M. McCredie and Others. No. 338. —W. J. Roberts and Others. No. 339. —J. R. Johnson and Others. The petitioners pray for an alteration in the rate of fares and the times of running of railway trains on the line from Wellington to Lower Hutt. I am directed to report that the Committee are of opinion that the subject-matter of these petitions is one for the consideration of the Government. 29th October, 1878. ■

No. 4.—Richard James Feltus. The petitioner states that John George Petingale, a lunatic, died intestate, and was indebted to petitioner the sum of £265 145., and that he acted for some years as collector for the estate of the said J. G. Petingale, but that he has not been paid any money for his services as collector or otherwise. He prays for relief. The Committee has made enquiry into the case, and find that the receipts and payments in realizing the estate of the late J. G. Petingale, were as follows—namely:— Eeceipts £ s. d. 400 acres of land, sold by order or Mortgagee, realized .. 40 0 0 112 acres of land ..' .. .. .. ..' 23 0 0 Allotment, Eden Terrace .. .. .. .. 12 0 0 Sundry sums received by Trustee .. .. .. 67 17 8 £142 17 8

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Expendituee. £ i. d. Advertisements of land, and commission .. .. .. 13 12 6 Auctioneer's account .. .. .. .. .. 576 Paid Brookficld (on what account does not appear). . .. 28 6 2 Mr. J. B. Russell, on account of his bill of costs, £57 10s. 2d., on account of estate .. .. .. .. 52 12 5 Cost of obtaining administration .. .. .. 14 17 2 Funeral expenses .. .. .. .. .. 13 12 0 Medical attendance .. .. .. .. .. 770 Curator's commission .. .. .. .. .. 7 2 11 £142 17 8 It will be seen that the sum of £142 17s. Bd. consisted of liabilities, which, with the exception of the medical attendance, were incurred after the decease of Petingale, while accounts for lodging, clothing, and money advanced, amounting in all to £309 15s. 6'd., incurred before his death, remained unsettled. I am directed to report that, owing to the above circumstances, the Committee cannot suggest any means of giving relief to the petitioner, but expresses the opinion that the estate was very carelessly and extravagantly administered, and the interest of the creditors not sufficiently guarded. 29th October, 1878.

No. 127.—A. C. McGahey and Others. No. 128. —G. Webster and Others. No. 129.— H. J. Archer and Others. No. 189.— R. H. Matthews and Others. No. 190.— J. N. Lambly and Others. No. 191.— R. Wyles and Others. No. 192. —W. 11. Prosser and Others. These several petitions refer to the placing of several hundred names of persons on the electoral roll of the Manganui and Bay of Islands Electoral District, which the petitioners state was done contrary to law. They pray that inquiry be made, and relief afforded them. The Committee has made a preliminary inquiry into the matters complained of, and especially to a letter put in as evidence by Mr. Williams, M.H.R., which he received from Hercmaia Te Ara, and nineteen others, who state that they had not signed their names to the claims for being placed on the list of voters for the Manganui and Bay of Islands Electoral District, as shown by some of the claims to vote before the Committee. I am directed to report that, the Committee is of opinion that the attention ofthe Government should be directed to this letter; with the view of au inquiry being made in the matter by the Roval Commission to be appointed to report on the grievances ofthe petitioners. 29* th October, 1878.

No. 160.—A. J. Willis. The petitioner prays that extra compensation be paid to him for loss of office ensuing from the abolition of the provinces, on the special ground that he was entitled to twelve month's leave of absence on sick pay, which he did not receive* and. also, that he is informed that some provincial officers in Canterbury are to receive extra compensation. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that, in consideration of the fact that the petitioner was an old provincial officer, he is entitled to any employment in the Government service that is available, and for which he is suitable. 29th October, 1878.

No. 296.—C011ie, Scott and Wilkinson. The petitioners state that in January, 1874, they entered into a contract with the Government, known as the Summit Contract of the Wellington and Masterton Railway. That during the progress of the work certain extensile alterations from the original contract became necessary ; and casualties happened from causes over which they could have no control. Owing to these circumstances they suffered heavy losses, and became unable to meet their engagements. They pray for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee, having made inquiry into this case, find that the question to be decided is, whether the colony is to compensate individuals for loss sustained ou account of undertaking public works at a price that is not remunerative. The Committee do not consider that the colony is responsible for losses so sustained. With respect to this special case : the Committee find that the petitioners carried out their work in a satisfactory manner in the face of certain loss, but as the Government has already given all possible aid and consideration, the Committee cannot recommend special compensation for loss so sustained. 29th October, 1878. 3y Authority i Geobge Dibsbitky, Q-oyernment Printer, Wellington.—lB7B. price li.