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

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1883 Session I, I-01

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1883. NEW ZEALAND.

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

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

INDEX. A. [ D. No. Petition. Page No. Petition. Page 90 Ah Tong, John, and other Chinese .. .. i 194 Dale, Richard .. .. .. .. 19 29 Alexander, William, and Others .. .. 3 259 Daniel, F. H., and Others .. .. .. 9 309 Allen, Edward, jun. .. .. .. 14 127 Davies, Richard, and Others .. .. 10 212 Anderson, D., and Others .. .. .. 10 505 Dawson, William, and Others .. .. 22 136 Andrew, M. J., and Others .. .. .. 10 398 Day, P., and Others .. .. .. 15 331 Ashbnrton Porks and Rakaia Railway Company 21 515 Dean, John, and Others .. .. .. 22 50 Atkinson, Robert .. .. .. .. 2 i 400 Deighton, R. J. .. .. .. .. 17 534 Attewell, James, and Others .. .. 23 58 Dixon, William .. .. .. .. 7 519 Dougherty, John .. .. .. ~ 21 jj 438 Dolphins, Hubert, and Others .. .. 18 281 Baird, C, and Others " 10 "J sri5 ri£ kw<£' \' and J2 .86 Baird Dugald, and Others 10 294 Dufley, Stephen, and Others .. .. 13 213 Baker, W.; and Others 10 108 Dunn, John 4 254 Bakewell, Robert Hall ...... 7 299 Barron, Thomas .. .... .. 13 E. 240 Bastings, Alfred, and Others (No. 1) .. .. 10 410 Edgar, Matthew .. .. .. .. 23' 267 Bastings, Alfred, and Others (No. 2) .. .. 12 347 Engles, G. H. .. .. .. .. 17 298 Bates, W. H. .. .. .. .. 14 88 Eniliss, Robert, and Others .. .. .. 10 106 Baueke, Henry .. .. .. .. 24 503 Eyre, George, and Others .. .. .. 20' 99 Beveridge, William .. .. .. .. 9 258 Bish, A., and Others ...... 8 F. 535 Bishop, Hugh A., and Others .. .. 23 537 p a ll oy , John, and Others .. .. .. 23 142 Blake, John, and Others .. .. .. 10 232 Faloon, S. .... 10 191 Booth, George, and Others .. .. .. 5 182 Farmer, Thomas .. 7 169 Bottier, J. L., and Others .. ... .. 10 66 Farnall, Harry W. .. .. 2 270 Bragg, Alfred, and Others .. .. .. 12 368 Fathers, Thomas, and Others .. 14 170 Bragg, W., and Others .. .. .. 10 J 102 Feltus, R. J. (No. 1) .. .. 6 199 Brennan, Patrick, and Others .. .. 6 t 228 Feltus, R. J. (No. 2) .... 6 285 Brown, John .. .. .. .. 20 353 Ferguson, John, and Others .. 15 350 Buchanan, John, and Others (No. 1) .. .. 14 300 Ferguson, Robert, and Others .. .. 17 511 Buchanan, John, and Others (No. 2) .. .. 22 304 pi re Brigades, Members of .. 13 380 Buckley, Daniel P. .. .. .. .. 16 65 Firman, Thomas .. .. .. .'.' 5 97 Budden, Henry .. .. .. .. 6 237 Fisher, L., and Others .. .. 10 148 Burrows, W., and Others .. .. .. 10 469 Fitzpatrick, E., and Others .. .. 19 219 Flatt, John .. .. .. 7 C. 181 Foley, Patrick, and Others .. .. 15 321 Campbell, C, and Others .. .. .. 10 248 Ford, Thomas, and Others .. .. .. 12 224 Chambers, J., and Others .. .. .. 10 256 doughy, William .. .. .. .. 12 114 Chiffey, E. G., and Others (No. 1) .. .. 12 i5l Fowler, William .. .. .... .. 19 123 Chiffey, E. G., and Others (No. 2) .. .. 12 220 Fowler, W. L., and Others .. .. .. 18 267 Chiffey, E. G., and Others No. 3) .. .. 12 I°9 Prance, Charles, M.R.C.S. .. .. .. 8 90 Chinese, Ah Tong and other .. .. 4 223 Frodnckson, E., and Others.. .. .. 10 21?' Clarke, S., and Others ...... 10 111 Clark, James McCosh, and Others .... 6 G. 146 Clark, J. G., and Others .. .. .. 7 528 Gabbie, William, and Others .. .. 23 529 Clover, James, and Others .. .. .. 23 185 Gardner, John, and Others .. .. 5--1 Cole, George .. .. .. .. . 2 87 Gall, John .. .. .. .. 6 73 Connor, Martin .. .. .. .. 5 425 Garrard, William George (No. 2) .. 18 20 Coyle, J. E. F. (No. 1) .. .. .. 1 238 Gilbert, D., and Others .. .. 10 307 Coyle, J. E. F. (No. 2) .. g, .. .. 14 183 Gittos, J. W., and Others .. .. 6--341 Coyle, Mary Jane, and Others .. .. 15 512 Gledhill, William, and Others .. .. 22 192 Cotton, R. M., and Others .. .. .. 5 271 Goldston, E., and Others .. .. .. 12 255 Crawford, Alexander' .. .. .. 8 51 Graham, Thomas .. .. .. .. 2 41 Crickett, Samuel .. .. .. .. 24 215 Gray, Robert Colther .. .. 16 101 Cruickshank, James, and Others .. .. 10 5 Greenleaf, John .. .. .. 2. 376 Cumming, Robert, and Others .. .. 15 135 Griffiths, Thomas, and Others .. 10-

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jj No. Petition. Page „ 236 Mercer, E. Beauohamp S. .. .. .. 8 N°- Petition. lage 38 Mervyn, David Hunter .. .. .. 2 448 Harcourt, J. 8., and Others .. .. .. 19 407 Middleton, J., and Others .. .. .. 17 276 Hardy, Robert, and Others No. 1 .. .. 12 145 Morgan Archibald 10 810 Hardy, Robert, and Others (No. 2) .. .. 12 354 Mullenger, George .. .. .. 16 167 Hardley, J. W., and Others .. .. ■• 10 " 221 Hare, R. .. .... .. .. 8 N. 518 Harris, William .. .. .. .- 22 gOl Naimj H enry, and Others .. .. .. 19 69 Hellyer, Henry, and Others .. .. .. ° 523 Neale, George .. .. .. .. 24 180 Henderson, Christina .. .. .. 7 2 88 Neale, S., and Others .. .. .. 10 117 Henderson, Donald .. .. .. o 322 Neil, Hugh, and Others .. .. .. 10 268 Hobbs, H., and Others .. .. . - New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency 301 Holmes, James .. .. .. • • lo Company .. .. .. .. 10 57 Honeyfield, Edward M. .. .. .. 8 225 Nichol, W., and Others .. .. .. 10 282 Huddleston, C, and Others 10 24g Nioho i son> 0 ., and Others 19 502 Hudson, John S., and Others .. .. *" 266 Nixon, William, and Others .. .. 12 536 Hungerford, Thomas G. .. .. ■■ 528 No ttman, Mathew C, and Others .. ... ■23 261 Hunter, J., and Others ...... 10 211 Hutton, A., and Others ...... 10 T 426 Odium, William .. .. .. .. 24 x- 369 Ogilvie, Charles A. .. .. .. .. 14 334 Iversen, A. C, and Others .. .. .. 15 233 O'Hara, Edward .. .. .. .. 7 326 Osgood, S., and Others .. .. .. 15 J. 372 Jensen, Fritz ........ 15 P. 417 Jeromson, Henry, and Others .. .. 17 382 Parkes, E. D., and Others .. .. .. 14 293 Jobson, John .. .. .. • • 14 133 Patterson, David, and Others .. .. 10 418 Johnston, Charles John .. .. .. 20 403 Pearce, James .. .. .. .. 21 239 Johnston, G. P., and Others .. .. 10 175 Petteren, C. E., and Others .. .. 10 141 Johnston, John, and Others .. .. .. 10 433 Perry, Cranley N. .. .. .. .. 22 124 Joint, J., and Others (No. 1).. .. •■ 8 474 Phelan, Mary .. .. .. .. 23 125 Joint, J., and Others (No. 2).. .. .. 8 156 Piokford, J. H., and Others .. .. .. 10 517 Jones, Milsom, and Others .. .. .. 22 207 Pole, R. P., and Others .. .. .. 10 153 Jones, W. P., and Others .. .. .-. 10 154 p O zzi, L., and Others (No. 1) .. .. 12 158 Joyce, John, and Others .. .. .- 5 155 Pozzi, L., and Others (No. 2) .. .. 12 355 Preshaw, David 0., and Others .. .. 19 X, 173 Pursey, J. W., and Others .. .. .. 10 357 Keane, Henry, and Others ...... 15 116 Keogh, John, and Others ...... 12 a. 126 Kidd, Alfred, and Others .. .. .. 8 33^ .Jtakaia and Ashburton Porks Railway Company 21 89 Kingsham, John, and Others .. .. 10 319 R an km, R., and Others .. .. .. 10 473 Knight, W- F., and Others .. .. . • 18 287 Rawson, Herbert P. .. .. .. 14 151 Reddick, J., and Others .. .. .. .10 Tj 290 Redpath, G., and Others .. .. .. 10 m „ 1B 176 Redward, F. W., and Others .. .. 10 490 Lane, TM. IB 152 Reed, John, and Others 10 120 Laney, James . 4 122 B ice , W., and Others 10 424 Larkms Charles and Others .. .. 17 18 Eie]lards Hannah 1 339 Lawry,S., and Others 15 324 Eiggs A . c ., and Others 10 260 Lee, R and Others 10 96 Ro ° a ß c h, Thomas 4 306 Leopold Edward 21 Eoberts Henry 13 209 Leslie Gr., and Others .. .. .. 10 liohelt^on , A , and Others 10 .304 Lightfoot, W., and Others, Members of Fire 045 Roebuck, Mary Ann 10 150 Livinglne, J., and Others' V. [I V. 10 189 Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, New 1n - 450 Russell, C. H., and OtliMS ™ " " 18 Zealand .. .. -. ■■ 1" 272 Rutherford, R., and Others .. .. .. 12 449 Longhurst, George -j!0 131 Byley Jolllli and others 10 115 Lonsley, George, and Others .. .. 10 ■> ■" 509 Lvmib, George ........ 22 332 Lynch, John ........ 18 o. 329 Salter, Richard .. .. .. .. 15 ]yr 188 Sampson, 0., and Others .. .. .. 5 128 Seaton, David, and Others .. .. .. 10 327 Mace, Frederick G., and Another .. .. 14 g8 Sherwood, John .. .. .. .. 6 119 MacNamara, Thomas .. .. .. 14 134 Siebein, M. J., and Others .. .. .. 10 349 Madden, Richard .. .. .. •• 13 168 Simmons, F., and Others .. .. .. 10 514 Mahon, Archibald, and Others .. .. 22 208 Simpson, J., and Others .. .. .. 10 303 Mahon, Martin .. .. • ■ • • 12 411 Simpson, Richard Middleton .. .. 21 149 Marks, E., and Others .. .. .- 10 423 Skinner, Richard .. .. .. .. 17 39 Marsh, Richard .. .. •• •• 4 419 s m ith, Archibald .. .. .. .. 18 289 Martin, A., and Others .. .. •■ 10 500 Smith, Martha .. .. .. .. 20 516 Mcßernie, John, and Others .. .. 22 530 Smith, R., ajid Others .. .. .. 23 46 McAnally, George .. .. .. • • 3 16 Smith, Thomas W. P. .. .. .. 12 283 McCallum, D., and Others .. .. .. 10 275 Sneddon, T., and Others .. .. .. 12 302 McClune, Robert .. .. •• •• 16 62 Soall, J. C. .. .. ■• •• * 348 McCormick, James .. .. .. • • 13 24 Soler, Joseph .. .. .. .. 3 210 McDonald, J., and Others .. .. .. 10 375 Souness, W., and Others .. .. .. 15 60 McDonnell, Lieut.-Colonel .. .. .. 3 23 Stephcnson, Samuel .. .. .. 1 409 McGibbon, John, and Others .. .. 17 179 Stewart, Thomas .. .. .. .. 15 56 McGregor, Donald, and Others .. .. 2 67 Stone, C. 8., and Others .. .. .. 3 325 McGuire, John, and Others .. .. .. 10 75 Storey, 0., and Others .. .. .. 4 132 McHutchea?, Alexander, and Others .. .. 10 499 Sutton, A. P.- .. .. .. •■ 24 274 Mclver, J., and Others ...*£■ .. .■■. 12 X7l Symonds, Mrs. .. .. .. .. 7 177 McKellar, D., and Others .. .. .. ° M 64 Syms, Henry J. .. .. .-. .. 7 61 McKenna, Edwari3 v V.C. .. -.. ■• 1 104 McKenzie, Duncan, and Others .... 4 rp 513 McKenzie, M. W., and Others .... 22 .x--105 McLeod, M., and Others 3 112 Taylor, C. 8., and Others ~ ... .-.. 4 471 McManus, Honora .. .. .. •• 20 487 Taylor, Joseph, and Others .. ~ .. 18 291 Mcßae, G.E., and Others .. .. .. 10 538 Therasso, Angehque .. ■• ■• 2d

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No. Petition. Page No. Petition. Page 32 Thompson, Andrew (No. 1) .. .. .. 8 227 Wellman, W., and Others .. .. .. 10 435 Thompson, Andrew (No. 3) .. .. .. 18 273 Werry, W., and Others .. 12 498 Thompson, Andrew, and Others (No. 4) .. 19 48 Weston, H., and Others .. .. 2 489 Thompson, B. .. .. .. .. 18 226 Wetherell, H., and Others .. 10 506 Thomson, Thomas .. .. .. .. 24 68 Whitson, P.., and Others .. 3 395 Thomson, William, and Others .. .. 14 186 Wilson, Nathaniel .. .. .. 14 100 Todd, A. 8., and Others .. .. .. 10 257 Wilson, E., and Others .. .. .. 8 422 Wise, Joseph, and Others .. .. .. 18 V. 305 Withers, Fanny .. .. .. .. 13 340 Veale, E., and Others .. .. .. 15 161 Woodcock, Alfred Edward, and Others .. 12 190 Woodroofe, G. W., and Others (No. 1) .. 8 "W. 195 Woodroofe, G. W., and Others (No. 2) 7 259 Waimea Plains, Inhabitants of .. .. 9 VP Wratten, David, and Others 10 174 Waller, J. 0., and Others .. .. 10 504 w«gley> Thomas, and Others .. .. 23 429 Wason, J. C, and Others .. .. .. 21 320 Watson, Joseph, and Others.. .... 10 Y. 129 Watt, Malcolm, and Others .. .. .. 10 35 Young, Andrew, and Another .. .. 3 532 Webster, Thomas .. .. .. .. 23 367 Young, Pope, and Co. .. .. 17 246 Weiss, Robert .. .. .. .. 8 j 231 Young, William Joseph .. .. .. 16

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1883. NEW ZEALAND.

Presented to the House of Bepresentatives, and ordered to be printed.

No. 18.—Petition of Hannah Bichabds, Parnell. The petitioner states she is the widow of Henry Eichards; that the said Henry Eichards at the time of his death had been twenty-three years in the Civil Service of the colony; that through his death she is placed in such circumstances that she is induced to ask for the favourable consideration of the House in granting her a gratuity. lam directed to report: That, as it appears that the petitioner has not made any application to the Government for consideration, in terms of section 40 of "The Civil Service Act, 1866," the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any special recommendation. 27th June, 1883.

No. 20.—Petition of James E. F. Coyle, Dunedin (No. 1). The petitioner states that he petitioned the House in 1880 for compensation for loss sustained in carrying out a contract for surveying land in Canterbury, the loss being occasioned by the terms of his contract not having been observed by the Chief Surveyor of Canterbury. The Committee reported on his case and recommended " the Government to take all the circumstances of the case into consideration and grant the petitioner fair compensation for loss occasioned by delay and for the extra work which appears to have been performed by him." Then he again petitioned in 1881, when the Committee reported as follows: " That, as it appears the petitioner has a claim against the Government, such claim should be submitted to arbitration in the usual way." The petitioner further states that since the session of 1881 he has made many applications to the Government to deal with his claim in some way, but the Government have refused to take any action in the matter. He now prays for relief. lam directed to report: That, as no new evidence has been offered to the Committee in this case, the Committee are of opinion that the recommendation of the Committee in the session of 1881 be given effect to, viz. : That the claim of the petitioner be submitted to arbitration in the usual way. 9,9 th .TnnA. 1883.

Ziijvll 0 UXIU, -LUOU. No. 23.—Petition of Samuel Stephenson, Auckland. The petitioner states that he petitioned the House last session for the redress of grievances under the new Licensing Act. He now prays that compensation may be granted him. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make to the House in the case of the petitioner. 3rd July, 1883.

No. 61.—Petition of Edwaed McKenna, V.C., Greatford. The petitioner states that he has on several occasions petitioned the House to grant him 400 acres of land to which he is entitled as a military settler. He now prays the House to take his petition and his long arid honourable service in the colony into favourable consideration, and grant him the 400 acres of land to which Se feels himself justly entitled, or such compensation in lieu thereof as your honourable House may deem fit. I am directed 'to report: That the Committee see no reason to alter the decision arrived at during the session of 1879 in the petitioner's case. 3rd July, 1883. I—l. 1.

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

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No. 66.—Petition of Haeby W. Faenall, Auckland. The petitioner states that he has frequently petitioned the House for the redress of his grievances, but up to the present time has only received £275 in compensation, whereas he has already expended in interest alone a sum of over £700 on a mortgage raised entirely in the interests of the colony. He now prays his case may be taken into consideration and redress granted him. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make in the petitioner's case. 3rd July, 1883.

No. 51.—Petition of Thomas Graham, Auckland. The petitioner states that he was sworn in for special service as a Thames Volunteer, and was informed his services would be required for two months certain ; that at the end of six weeks he was discharged, for which period he received payment. He now claims £6 7s. 6d., being the amount of fifteen days' pay, and prays for relief. lam directed to report: That, the House having, by special resolution, declined to carry out the recommendation of the Committee on the claims of the Thames Volunteers during the last session, the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any special recommendation. 3rd July, 1883.

No. 50.—Petition of Eobbet Atkinson, Auckland. The petitioner states that he was summarily dismissed the Customs service in 1874; that he has petitioned for several sessions, and has received many recommendations from the Public Petitions Committee, which have never been carried into effect. He now prays the House will grant him an investigation into the charge preferred against him, and favourably consider his claim to compensation for loss of office. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make in the case of the petitioner. . 3rd July, 1883.

No. 48.—Petition of H. Weston and Others, Taranaki. The petitioners pray that a sum of money be placed on the estimates for assistance in forming and gravelling Elliot Eoad. No. 56.—Petition of Donald McGeegob and Others, Whangarei. The petitioners pray that the Beach Eoad, Parua Bay, may be completed. I am directed to recommend : That the petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 3rd July, 1883.

No. s.—Petition of John Geeenleap, Auckland. The petitioner states that he was arrested for legal costs said to be due to the Crown, and which he was unable to pay; that for this he was imprisoned and treated as a common felon; that one of his passengers, after ho had served a considerable portion of his time, paid these costs. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That the action of the Resident Magistrate in committing the petitioner to gaol, with hard labour, appears, under the circumstances, to have been extremely harsh and unwarranted. The Committee recommend the petitioner be paid the amount of his costs. 4th July, 1883.

No. 38.-—Petition of David Hunteb Meevtn, Boxburgh. The petitioner states the Commissioner of Crown Lands, Otago, brought an action against him to enforce payment of the unpaid instalments of the purchase-money for Section 7, Block XIV., Benger District. That he defended the action, which was decided by the Supreme Court in his favour; the Commissioner then brought an appeal to the Court of Appeal of New Zealand, and the Court dismissed the appeal, with costs in that Court and the Court below. That he has been paid the costs in the Appeal Court, but his costs in the Supreme Court have not been paid. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That, as it does not appear that the case is finally settled, the Committee have no recommendation to make. sth July, 1883.

No. I.—Petition of Geoege Cole, Papakura. The petitioner states that he served against the enemy in the Bay of Islands in 1845, and in the Waikato war; that he suffered the loss of his eldest son in actual service ; that the Defence Minister (the Hon. Thomas Eussell, C.M.G.) promised him a premium in cash and a large slice of land, which promise has never been fulfilled. He prays for relief. I am directed to report : That, from the evidence before the Committee, it appears there is no record of any piximise made by the Minister for Defence that a grant of land would be given to petitioner ; the Committee cannot therefore recommend his claim to the favourable consideration of the House. sth July, 1883.

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No. 24.- —Petition of Joseph Solee, Wanganui. The petitioner states that he is a wine-manufacturer, that he is desirous of obtaining a license and authority to sell his wines in any quantity at his vineyard and in the towns, and to be able to appoint agents. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That, as it appears the petitioner can obtain a license from the local Committee, if they are so disposed, the Committee see no reason to make any special recommendation, which involves an alteration of the law. sth July, 1883.

No. 35.—Petition of Andbew Young and Another. The petitioners state that, as mail contractors, they entered into a contract with the Government to carry the mails by coach between Tauranga and the Thames; that at the time the contract was entered into the roads were in good repair; that they entered into the contract with the full expectation that such roads and bridges would be kept in repair for coach-traffic; that floods came and washed away the roads for several miles and carried away the bridges, thereby stopping all coachtraffic ; that they then carried the mails on horseback, but suffered great loss through not being able to carry passengers; that through the roads not being repaired they were obliged to sell their plant at a loss of £1,200, and were obliged also to give up a contract which, if the same could have been continued, would have been highly remunerative and profitable. They pray they may be compensated for the loss they have sustained in connection with the above-mentioned contract, or that some relief may be granted them. I am directed to report: That it appears the petitioners have made no official claim to the Government for compensation for alleged losses in connection with a mail contract; the Committee do not therefore consider that it is necessary to make any recommendation. sth July, 1883.

No. 57.—Petition of Edwaed M. Honeypield. The petitioner states that he holds two remission certificates, amounting in value to £15 ; that, not having been able to obtain possession in time for presentation to the Commissioners, his claim was not recommended. He requests that his claim may be fairly considered to enable him to obtain their value. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to the same money-payment which was paid to similar claimants by the Provincial Government of Taranaki, and recommend the Government to make a settlement of the claim accordingly. sth July, 1883.

No. 67.—Petition of C. B. Stone and Others, Auckland. The petitioners pray for the construction of a wharf or jetty at Waiwera Bay. No. 68. —Petition of E. Whitson and Others, Mahurangi District The petitioners pray for the construction of a wharf or jetty at Waiwera Bay. No. 105. —Petition of M. McLeod and Others, Waipu. The petitioners pray for a tram from Waipu to Whangarei Harbour. lam directed to recommend: That these petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. sth July, 1883.

No. 60.—Petition of Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, Wanganui. The petitioner states that in 1863 he joined the Colonial Defence Force ; that he was from time to time, down to the year 1870, in constant action, and was wounded in different engagements ; that he was forty-three times under fire in New Zealand; that he has suffered from time to time from the wounds to his thumb and the right hand and left leg, and, in fact, is at times unable to walk owing to the injury sustained in the leg. He prays the House will take his case into consideration and grant him relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee is of opinion that Colonel McDonnell is entitled to some consideration, and recommend his claim for recognition of his services to the favourable consideration of the Government. 6th July, 1883.

No. 29.—Petition of William Alexandeb and Others, Farmers, Otago. The petitioners state that they are engaged in the growth of linseed and rapeseed; that for railway freight these products are classed as merchandise. They pray that for purposes of railway carriage linseed and rapeseed be classed as grain and not as merchandise. lam directed to report: That the Committee recommend the consideration of the claim of the petitioners to the Government for favourable consideration. 6th July, 1883.

No. 46. —Petition of Geoege McAnallt, Mercer. The petitioner states that he was employed as linesman in the Telegraph Department; that in July, 1882, when assisting a settler to remove a small house, he was ordered to desist by the Officer in Charge of Telegraphs, that he answered in an offensive manner, for which he was summarily dismissed the service. He prays for relief.

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lam directed to report: That the Committee do not consider it desirable to make any recommendation in this case, as it involves a question of discipline of the Telegraph Department. 6th July, 1883.

No. 62.—Petition of Serjeant J. C. Soall. The petitioner prays the House will grant him a fair inquiry into his system of musketry. I am directed to report: That the Committee, having dealt finally with the case of the petitioner during the session of 1881, have no further recomendation to make. 6th July, 1883.

No. 75. —Petition of C. Stobey and Others, Whangarei Eifle Volunteers. The petitioners pray that country corps of Volunteers may be placed on the same footing as town corps in regard to capitation. I am directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 11th July, 1883.

No. 104.—Petition of Duncan McKenzie and Others, Waipu. The petitioners state that, in view of encouraging immigration to this colony, the House be pleased to extend the Immigration Act to the British Colony of Nova Scotia, North America. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 11th July, 1883.

No. 112.—Petition of C. B. Taylob and Others, Christchurch. The petitioners, the Mayor, Councillors, and Citizens of Christchurch, pray that endowments may be granted to the City of Christchurch, to place it on equal footing with other chief cities of the colony. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 11th July, 1883.

No. 39.—Petition of Eichaed Maesh, Auckland. The petitioner states that on the 24th October, 1881, he was arrested by the police, and charged with lunacy ; that he was sent to the Auckland Lunatic Asylum on the certificates of two medical men, where he remained four months, although he was in his normal condition of mental capacity. He requests that an investigation may be made into his case. lam directed to report: That, having made an examination into the petitioner's case, the Committee are of opinion that there is no necessity of instituting any further inquiry. 11th July, 1883.

No. 120.—Petition of James Laney, Cambridge, Waikato. The petitioner states that on the 23rd February, 1873, he received a severe wound in the right temple from a Native, which incapacitated him from carrying out his contract, and, in a great measure, any other work up to the present time ; that, through the effects of the said wound, he was not able to carry on his work, and was obliged to sell his land. He prays the House will take his case into favourable consideration. lam directed to report: That the Committee, having dealt with this case in 1873, and the House having declined to affirm the responsibility of the colony for claims of this kind, and no fresh evidence being offered, have no recommendation to make. 11th July, 1883.

No. 103. —Petition of John Dunn, Auckland. The petitioner states that he was for a number of years Warder of Auckland Gaol, and was compelled to resign through ill-health; that he is now unable to work for a living. He prays the House will take his case into consideration, and award him some small means for his subsistence. lam directed to report: That the Committee see no reason to alter the decision arrived at on the petitioner's case during the session of 1881. 11th July, 1883.

No. 90.—Petition of John Ah Tong and other Chinese. The petitioners pray that Chinese immigration may be freed from the poll-tax until the number of Chinese in the colony reaches seven thousand. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 13th July, 1883. _____

No. 96.—Petition of Thomas Eoach. The petitioner states that he was a gatekeeper on the Canterbury railways, and that in the year 1881 he was dismissed from the service; that he was irreparably injured in the execution of his duty; and that he is in indigent circumstances. He prays that relief may be granted him.

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I am directed to report: That the Committee, having made inquiry into the case of the petitioner, are of opinion that he has no claim against the colony. 13th July, 1883.

No. 73.—Petition of Maetin Connoe, Wellington. The petitioner states that he was for eighteen years a member of the New Zealand Police Force, and while serving as constable he contracted a serious illness, which rendered him unfit for further service; that he was discharged, and received £146 10s. as compensation. He also states he is now, by reason of the said illness, unfit to earn his living, and is without any means. He prays the House to grant him relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the colony has already made such compensation as he is fairly entitled to. The Committee have therefore no recommendation to make. 13th July, 1883.

No. 117.—Petition of Donald Hendeeson, South Molyneux. The petitioner states that he was plaintiff in the case of Henderson v. Minister for Public Works at the Compensation Court; that he has suffered considerable pecuniary loss through the operation of section 64 of "The Public Works Act, 1876." His claim was for £1,062 for lands taken for the Catlin's Eiver Eailway ; that he was awarded only £539 13s. 9d. He prays for redress. lam directed to report: That, having carefully considered the case of the petitioner, the Committee cannot under the circumstances recommend his claim for further compensation. 13th July, 1883.

No. 65.—Petition of Thomas Fieman, Christchurch. The petitioner states that in 1868 he gave timely warning to the settlers and friendly Natives at Poverty Bay on the occasion of the massacre; that he served during the war and after its close in the Police Force and Armed Constabulary; and that in October, 1882, he was discharged on account of ill-health. He prays for employment. lam directed to report: That the Committee consider that the petitioner has no special claim on the colony, and therefore have no recommendation to make. 13th July, 1883. _

No. 172.—Petition of C. K. Eoskeuge. The petitioner states that he was late Sheep Inspector for Otago ; that he has been in the service for twelve years ; and that his services have been dispensed with. He prays for compensation for loss of office. I am directed to report : That the Committee are of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to the usual retiring allowance (luring the period he was in the service of the General Government. 13th July, 1883.

No. 158.—Petition of John Joyce and Others, Sydenham. That a railway to the West Coast from Canterbury be constructed at once. No. 177.—Petition of D. McKellab and Others, Nevis District. -Foe the construction of a dray-road from Nevis Township to the Invercargill Eailway. No. 181.—Petition of Pateick Foley and Others, Waimea District. That the pack-track may be converted into a metalled road. lam directed to recommend: That the petitions be referred to the Government for consiation. 17th July, 1883.

No. 185.—Petition of John Gaednee and Others, Puhoi. The petitioners, Chairmen of the Highway Districts of Komokoriki, Lower Mahurangi, and Puhoi, pray that a connecting road may be made through these districts. No. 188.—Petition of C. Sampson and Others. Foe a fair proportion of loan expenditure on the Egmont Eoad. lam directed to recommend: That these petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 17th July, 1883.

No. 191. —Petition of Geobge Booth and Others. Fob railway communication to the Brockley Coal Field. No. 192.—Petition of E. M. Cotton and Others. Foe construction "of railway-line from Glentunnel up the Wairiri Valley. lam directed to recommend: That these petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 17th July, 1883.

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No. 87.—Petition of John Gall, Eangiriri. The petitioner states that he lives on land leased from the Natives; that the Auckland-Waikato Railway passes through the said land ; that the railway is not fenced or protected in any way ; that in consequence he has sustained a loss of £200. He prays that compensation may be granted him, and his property protected from further damage. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 19th July, 1883.

No. 97. —Petition of Henry Budden, Nelson. The petitioner prays for compensation for the destruction of grape-vines under a Proclamation issued in January, 1883, the said grape-vines having been ordered from England previous to the issue of such Proclamation. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to be paid his actual loss on the vines destroyed by order of the Government. 19th July, 1883. '

No. 199.—Petition of Patrick Brennan and Others. The petitioners pray that some assistance may be granted to the family of the late John McMynn, Bailiff, of Eeefton. . lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make in the case of the petitioners. 19th July, 1883.

No. 102.—Petition of E. J. Feltus, Auckland (No. 1). The petitioner complains that he is not allowed to write in the Supreme Court, and prays for redress. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petitioner has no claim against the colony for consideration. 19th July, 1883. ■

No. 228.—Petition of E. J. Felttjs, Auckland (No. 2). The petitioner asks that his claims against Petingall's estate may be inquired into and settled. lam directed to report: That, having on a former occasion fully reported on this claim, the Committee have no further recommendation to make to the House. 19th July, 1883.

No. 69.—Petition of Henry Hellyer and Others, Waiwera. The petitioners ask that a wharf or jetty be constructed by the Government at Waiwera Bay, Waiwera. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 20th July, 1883.

No. 183. —Petition of J. W. Gittos and Others, Auckland. The petitioners state that they are articled clerks by virtue of the Law Practitioners Acts, now repealed by "The Law Practitioners Act, 1882;" that they are considerably prejudiced by the said Act of 1882 ; that the Act of 1882 contains no saving clause by which are exempted from its operation law students who at the time of that Act passing were under articles. They now pray for relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the prayer of the petitioners is a reasonable one, and recommend it to the favourable consideration of the House. 20th July, 1883.

No. 98. —Petition of John Sherwood, Nelson. The petitioner states that he entered the service of the Provincial Government of Nelson in 1857, and remained in such service until the 31st July, 1874; that on the Ist August of that year he entered the General Government service as messenger, at a salary of £120 per annum; that on the 31st August, 1882, he retired from the service, when he was paid the sum of £80 as a retiring allowance for the time he was in the service of the General Government. He prays that an allowance may be granted for his provincial service. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make on the petitioner's case. 18th July, 1883.

No. 111.—Petition of James McCosh Clark and Others, Auckland. The petitioners, as .trustees for various charitable and other institutions, state they are respectively entitled to certain legacies under the will of the late Edward Costley, of Auckland; that, under "The Deceased Persons' Estate Duty Act, 1881," the said estate is liable to duty exceeding in the whole the sum of £6,000; that such a deduction will deprive the several charities of a large sum of money. They pray for relief.

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lam directed to report: That the Committee, having carefully considered the case of the petitioners, cannot see their way to recommend the prayer of the petitioners to the favourable consideration of the House. 20th July, 1883.

No. 171.—Petition of Mrs. Symonds, Auckland. The petitioner states that she is the widow of the late John Jermyn Symonds, who served the colony for thirty-seven years ; that a pension was awarded to her late husband in 1869 ; that after his pension was granted he served the colony as a Judge of the Native Lands Court; that in 1882 he was requested to retire on his former pension. She now prays for further consideration. lam directed to report: That the Committee consider that the colony has made a fair allowance to the petitioner's deceased husband, and cannot therefore make any recommendation. 20th July, 1883.

No. 254.—Petition of Eobert Hall Bakewell, Christchurch. The petitioner states that he is desirous of seeing compulsory vaccination abolished, and prays the House will give assent to the Bill now before it for the abolition of compulsory vaccination. lam directed to report: That, the subject-matter of this petition having been dealt with by the House, the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any recommendation. 24th July, 1883.

No. 219.—Petition of John Flatt, Auckland. The petitioner states that he was employed in the Government Domain in Auckland for some years as gardener, and prays for some consideration for his long service. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make to the House on the petitioner's claim. 24th July, 1883.

No. 180.—Petition of Christina Henderson, Wairoa South. The petitioner prays that compensation may be granted to her for the loss of her husband, who was killed from a fall from his horse in July, 1863, when coming off duty in the Waikato war. I am directed to report: That the Committee do not consider the petitioner has any claim against the colony. 24th July, 1883.

No. 146.—Petition of J. G. Clark and Others, Tauranga. The petitioners pray that steps may be taken for closing the portion of the road running through the Tauranga cemetery. No. 182.—Petition of Thomas Farmer, Tauranga. The petitioner prays that road through the cemetery at Tauranga may not be closed. lam directed to report: That, as the power of closing public roads is vested in the local government bodies, the Committee do not consider it is necessary to make any recommendation. 24th July, 1883.

No. 58.- —Petition of William Dixon, Masterton. The petitioner states that he is a member of the Fire Brigade at Masterton ; that in October, 1882, a fire occurred at Masterton; that through his exertions the Government Buildings were saved from destruction. He prays for compensation for injuries sustained. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the Government should be requested to place a sum of £25 on the estimates as a gratuity to the petitioner for the services rendered at Masterton in saving the Government Buildings from destruction by fire. 25th July, 1883. '

Nos. 164 and 233.—Petitions of Henry J. Syms, Thames; and Edward O'Hara, Auckland. The petitioners pray for grants of land as military settlers. lam directed to report: That, as the Committee find that the claims of the petitioners were inquired into and reported adversely on by a Eoyal Commission, they do not therefore consider it necessary to make any recommendation. 25th July, 1883.

No. 195. —Petition of G. W. Woodeoofb and Others (No. 2), Masterton. The petitioners pray for alterations in the Municipal Corporations Act, to enable boroughs to be divided, if necessary. lam directed to report: That, as there is a Municipal Corporations Act Amendment Bill now under the consideration of the House, the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any special report. 25th July, 1883.

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No. 190.—Petition of G. W. Woodeoofe and Others (No. 1), Masterton. The petitioners pray that the Masterton and Greytown Lands Management Bill may not pass. Nos. 221 and 258.—Petitions of E. Hake, Masterton; and A. Bish and Others, Masterton. The petitioners pray that the Masterton and Greytown Lands Management Bill may pass. I am directed to report: That, as the subject-matter of these petitions is now under the consideration of the House, the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any recommendation. 25th July, 1883.

No. 109.—Petition of Chaeles Feanoe, M.E.C.S., Wellington. The petitioner states that he petitioned the House in 1881 for compensation for provincial service, owing to the abolition of his office; that the Committee reported, " That, under the circumstances, he was entitled to the allowance granted for loss of office under ' The Abolition of Provinces Act, 1875 ;.'" that he again petitioned the House last session, when a decision adverse to the former one was given. He now prays that his case may be considered a special one, and his just claim satisfied. lam directed to report: That the Committee, having reconsidered the case of the petitioner, do not see any reason why the decision of last session should be departed from. 26th July, 1883.

No. 32. —Petition of Andeew Thompson (No. 1), Waikouaiti. The petitioner states that Mr. James Green, member of the House for Waikouaiti, is a member of the Otago Lands Board, for which, petitioner believes, he receives payment. He prays that inquiry may be made in view of ascertaining whether Mr. James Green is qualified to be a member of the House, in accordance with the Disqualification Act or not. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the subject-matter of this petition is one to be dealt with by the ordinary Courts of law; the Committee have therefore no recommendation to make. 26th July, 1883.

No. 246.—Petition of Bobebt_ Weiss, Dunedin. The petitioner prays to be allowed to exercise immigrant's land scrip, lapsed through the effluxion of time. lam directed to report: That, having dealt with this case in the year 1882, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 26th July, 1883.

Nos. 124 and 125.—Petitions of J. Joint and Others, Dunedin. The petitioners pray that " The Licensing Act, 1881," may be amended. No. 126.—Petition of Alfeed Kjdd and Others, Auckland. The petitioners pray to be relieved from certain grievances contained in "The Licensing Act, 1881." lam directed to report: That, the subject-matter of these petitions being before the House, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 26th July, 1883.

No. 255.—Petition of Alexander Ceawfobd, Dunedin. The petitioner states that he believes he is entitled to a grant of land in the Auckland District, as an old soldier. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make to the House in the case of the petitioner. 26th July, 1883.

No. 257.—Petition of E. Wilson and Others, Dunedin. The petitioners complain of unfair treatment in the matter of the renewal of the license of the railway refreshment-rooms. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make to the House in the case of the petitioners. 26th July, 1883.

No. 236.—Petition of E. Beauohamp S. Meecee, Wellington. The petitioner prays for consideration on account of the loss of his father, Captain Mercer, E.A., who fell in action during the "Waikato war. lam directed- to report: That the Committee recommend the claims of the petitioner to the consideration of the Government with the view of offering him employment for which he is suitable, as the circumstances of his father's death entitle him to consideration. 26th July, 1883.

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No. 99.—Petition of William Bevebidge, Normanby. The petitioner states that he was employed as engine-driver on the New Plymouth section of the Foxton-New Plymouth Railway; that he was disrated without any reason being assigned ; that he was compelled to resign the said service reluctantly; that he made application for certificate of character, which was refused ; that he sought redress from the department without avail. He prays that an inquiry be made to decide upon the facts of his case, and in order to establish his character as a competent tradesman. He also prays to be reinstated to the same or like office in the service, or that compensation may be granted him. lam directed to report: That, having made inquiry into this case, the Committee are of opinion —(1) That the petitioner was unfairly treated, inasmuch as he was refused an opportunity of vindicating his character ; (2) that there is no evidence to show that the petitioner was incompetent to perform the duties appertaining to the office of engine-driver ; (3) that the petitioner was entitled to receive a good character on leaving the service ; (4) that the petitioner has suffered a wrong, and is entitled to the very favourable consideration of the Government; (5) that, in all cases involving such serious consequences as disratement or dismissal, an impartial inquiry should be granted, if applied for. 26th July, 1883.

No. 259. —Petition of F. H. Daniel and Others, Waimea Plains. The petitioners state that they are merchants, wool-growers, and settlers in the Lake Wakatipu and Waimea Plains Districts; that the Waimea Plains Railway Company have raised their rates for carrying goods, making their tariff practically a prohibitive one. They submit that it is for the interest of their districts and the general public that the railway tariff should be uniform, which, they believe, can be only accomplished by the Government acquiring the Waimea Railway-line, or by legislating so as to equalize the tariff to that of the Government system. lam directed to report: That the Committee cannot see their way to recommend the House to interfere with the tariff of railway companies outside the limits fixed by the District Railways Act; and the evidence before the Committee goes to show that the purchase of the line by the Government would not be desirable from a financial point of view. ' 27th July, 1883.

Appendix to Eeport on No. 259. Sic, — Railway Department, Head Office, Wellington, 25th July, 1883. In re Petition re Waimea Railway. — Your Letter No. 94. The Waimea Plains Railway is constructed und^sr the District Railways Act, and is worked under an agreement with the Government in terms of the powers of the Public Works Act. Attached are copies of agreements entered into in November, 1880, and April, 1883 (D.-2,1881, Memorandum of Arrangements, Waimea Plains Railway, 17th April, 1882.) The company was desirous in 1880 that the Government rates should apply, and the agreement of 1880 was framed accordingly. It was understood after some time that the company desire to obtain better results in the shape of revenue ; and the Government having proposed to make very heavy reductions in Class E (grain) rates, the company took the opportunity of altering its rates and adopting a remunerative scale, which was embodied in and formed the subject of the agreement of April, 1883. This agreement came into operation on the 10th December, 1882. As illustrative of the difference in effect of the two agreements, I may state the proportions of the receipts handed to the company for the first three periods of the year 1882-83 and those for 1883-84, thus: 1882-83, £1,223 2s. Id.; 1883-84, £1,880 10s. That had the company continued to work on Government rates after the date of the reduction in Class E rates in December, 1882, its receipts would no doubt have been less for 1883-84 than for 1882-83. The company has other expenses than those charged against it by the Government, so that I am unable to state what their net profits were for the past year; but probably they were nil. The total sum handed to the company for the year 1882-83 was £3,726 13s. 6d. If the company had continued to run under the old agreement with Government rates, they would doubtless have had very heavy losses, as the bulk of the traffic is Class E (grain), on which the rate is a losing one. I may add that the other private railway companies—the Duntroon-Hakateramea and the Rakaia Forks— have also adopted higher rates than the Government rates. The line has been substantially constructed, and is an important one for the Lake District. In considering the petition, the fact that the Government, under the District Railways Act, guarantees a proportion of the interest on the cost of the line demands attention. I have, &c, J. P. Maxwell, General Manager New Zealand Railways.

Extract from Petition showing Comparative Bates on Thirty-seven Miles of Waimea Line and Thirty-seven Miles of Government Line. Government Price for Extra Distances. Waimea Tariff. s. d. £ s. d. Class A.... ... ... 9 3 per ton. Class A\ » B 6 2,, „ BI All charged one] . - - _ , „ C 4 9,, „ 0 rate \\ I * per ton. „ D... ... ... 4 7,, „ D) „ E ... ... .-.-.-*£. 3 1 „ E ... ... 012 4 per ton. Classes Fto M ... ... 6 3 per track. Classes Fto M ... 1 7 9 per truck. Wool ... .-*,-* ... 0 9 per bale. Wool ... ... 03 10 per bale. Timber ... ... ... 0 4 per 100 feet. Timber ... ... 0 3 1 per 100 feet Sheep* ... ... ... 12 per truck. Sheep ... ... 2 1 8 per truck. Minerals... ... ... 1 2 per ton. Minerals ... ... 0 9 3 per ton.

* The proper comparison with regard to the sheep should be, per double truck, 9s. 4d., against 41s. Bd.—J. P. M. —28th July, 1883. 2—1.1.

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Comparison shoiving the Charges from Dunodin to Elbow under the Agreement of 1883, and the Government Bates for a similar Distance on Government Line. At Government Rates, Dunedin to Elbow, 136 Miles. 136 Miles.* Class A, merchandise, per ton ... £2 18 4 ... £3 16 10 „ B, „ „ ... 2 7 6 ... 3 9 1 „ C, „ „ ... 118 3 ... 3 13 „ D, „ „ ... 1 911 ... 213 1 „ E, grain, per ton ... ... 014 0 ... 13 3 „ F, chaff, in trucks ... ... 2 5 2 ... 3 6 8 „ H, wool, in bales ... ... 0 7 8 ... 010 9 „ X, timber, 100 feet ... ... 0 3 6 ... 0 6 3 „ M, cattle, in trucks ... ... 219 0 ... 317 5 „ M, sheep, in trucks ... ... 2 10 ... 3 3 2 „ M, sheep, in double trucks ... 379 ... 510 N, coal, per ton ... ... 0 11 4 ... 107

* 99 miles at Government rates, 37 miles at company rates.

Nos. 115, 122, 156, 157, and 240.—Petitions of George Lonsley and others, W. Eice and Others, J. H. Pickford and Others, E. Drinkwell and Others, and Alfred Bastings and Others (No. 1). The petitioners pray that the Workmen's Lien Act may pass into law. lam directed to report: That, as the subject matter of these petitions is now before the House, the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any recommendation. 27th July, 1883.

No. 232. —Petition of S. Faloon, Kaipara. The petitioner states that, as an enrolled pensioner, he was entitled to a grant of a cottage and one acre of land, on certain conditions; that his cottage and pension were taken from him; that he applied in 1878 to the General Government for compensation, which has never been granted him. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make to the House on petitioner's claim. 27th July, 1883.

No. 245.—Petition of Mary Ann Eoebuck, New Plymouth. The petitioner states that she is widow of S. J. Eoebuck, a military settler, who was shot dead by Private Harris. She prays for a pension. lam directed to report: That the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner to the favourable consideration of the House. 27th July, 1883.

Nos. 86, 88, 89, 100, 101, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 141, 142, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 167, 168, 169, 170, 173, 174, 175, 176, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214, 223, 224, 225, 226, 227, 237, 238, 239, 260, 261, 280, 281, 282, 283, 288, 289, 290, 291, 318, 319, 320, 321, 322, 324 and 325.—Petitions of Dugald Baied and Others, Eobebt Enilliss and Others, John Kingsland and Others, A. B. Todd and Others, James Cruikshank and Others, Eichaed Da vies and Others, David Seaton and Others, Malcolm Watt and Others, David Weatten and Others, John Eyley and Others, Alexander McHutchon and Others, David Patterson and Others, M. J. Sieeein and Others, Thomas Griffiths and Others, W. J. Andrew and Others, John Johnston and Others, John Blake and Others, W. Buebows and Others, E. Makes and Others, J. Livingstone and Others, J. Eeddick and Others, John Eeed and Others, W. P. Jones and Others, J. W. Hardley and Others, F. Simmons and Others, J. L. Bothibk and Others, W. Bragg and Others, J. W. Pursey and Others, J. 0. Waller and Others, C. E. Petteren and Others, P. W. Eedward and Others, E. P. Pole and Others, J. Simpson and Others, G. Leslie and Others, J. McDonald and Others, A. Hutton and Others, D. Anderson and Others, W. Baker and Others, S. Clarke and Others, E. Eredeickson and Others, J. Chambers and Others, W. Nichol and Others, H. Wethebell and Others, W. Wellman and Others, L. Fisher and Others, D. Gilbert and Others, G. P. Johnston and Others, E. Lee and Others, J. Hunter and Others, A. Eobertson and Others, C. Baird and Others, C. Huddleston and Others, D. McCallam arid Others, S. Neale and Others, A. Martin and Others, G. Eedpath and Others, G. E. McEae and Others, Malcolm Eoss and Others, E. Eankin and Others, Joseph Watson and Others, C. Campbell and Others, Hugh Neil and Others, A. C. Biggs and Others, John McGuibe and Others. The petitioners pray that the Local Option Extension Act may pass into law. I am- directed to report: That, as the subject matter of these petitions is now under the consideration of the House, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 31st July, 1883. ,______, _„„____

No. 189.—Petition of the New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company. The petitioners state that in 1871 they secured an allotment of land contiguous to the Eailway Station, Lyttelton, and erected a store thereon and fitted dumping plant, which cost them £4,500;

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that previous to the expiration of the first three years' tenancy the Provincial Government determined the agreement for occupation by paying them the sum of £3,000; that subsequently the Provincial Government leased the store to them at a rental of £250 per annum; that in July 1877 the General Government put up the said lease by public tender; that they accepted a lease of the said store with the adjoining stores at the yearly rental of £3,000; that the Government entered into storage competition at reduced rates; that in March, 1879, they surrendered to the Government one of the stores, and they then made arrangements for the erection of stores at Officer's Point under an arrangement for a railway siding, which was not carried out, but it was arranged that a new lease of the Government store should be given them for twenty-one years, which was not given effect to; that the stores were to be put up to lease by auction unless they agreed to pay £1,246 as rent from the 30th September, 1879, to the 15th October, 1880. They pray that an inquiry be made into their case and relief granted to them. lam directed to report: That, having heard the petitioner's agents, and no new evidence being offered, the Committee adhere to their former decision, viz., Having carefully considered the case of the petitioners, the Committee recommend that the petition, together with the evidence thereon and the draft summary submitted by the Chairman to the Committee, bo forwarded to the Government for consideration. 31st July, 1883.

Appendix to Eeport on No. 189. Summary of Dealings with the Lyttelton Store Sites, by the Chairman of the Public Petitions Committee, at the request of the- Committee. It appears, from the papers submitted to the Committee, that the dealing with the Lyttelton Store Sites, by way of lease, has been conducted on very erratic principles. In 1871 the New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company obtained a lease of the site of store B for twenty-one years, and were required to build a store over the whole site, but, after holding the site less than two years, after the completion of the building, the lease was terminated by the Provincial Government. Occupation of the store continued under various temporary tenures till October, 1879, and for one year after on a disputed tenure, when the company was finally ousted. The rent paid during the period for the site amounted to £4,483, the expenditure on buildings to £3,500, and the refund by the Government for the buildings amounted to £3,000, leaving a net balance of £4,983 as rent paid and capital sunk during that period in the hands of the Government. In contrast to this case Cunningham, and Co. obtained the site of store C in 1869, and were dispossessed in November, 1878, and gave as rent for the whole period £9, expended in buildings £3,750, and received from the Government in February, 1877, the sum of £3,750 as the value of buildings left on the site, leaving a net balance in the hands of the Government of £9. On the 3rd August, 1877, the Government offered five sites for stores on Norwich Quay for lease; these sites have a frontage on a street and also on a railway siding. Sites Nos. Ito 4 inclusive have a frontage of 107 feet each, and a depth of 60 feet from the street to the siding ; No. 5 had a frontage of 78 feet, and the same depth. The 107 feet frontages were put up at £250 a year, increasing by one-third each seven years, the lease being for twenty-one years certain, buildings to be paid for by the Government at the end of term; only one lot was sold, viz., No. 4 site, to Messrs. Talbot and McClatchie. Mr. Carruthers recommended that Government stores should be build on the remaining sites, but the Minister declined on the ground that the Government should not enter into storage business. Subsequently the terms of the lease of the remaining sites were altered, the upset price being reduced to £1 10s. per foot frontage, and the one-third increase each seven years abandoned. Cunningham and Co. on these new terms obtained on the 23rd August, 1878, Lots 1, 2, and 5, equal to 292 feet frontage, and subsequently obtained Lot 3, 107 feet, at £1 per foot. The company subsequently parted with the half of Lots 3, viz., 53|r feet to Talbot and McClatchie, and surrendered to the Government, Lot 5, viz., 78 feet frontage, on the condition that it was set aside as a sailors' home, retaining in their own possession 267-J- feet, at an average rental of £1 Bs. 4d. per foot. The whole of the frontages on Norwich Quay having a railway siding were thus disposed of. The purchasers of Lot 4, who bought at an average of £3 4s. per foot for twenty-one years, naturally objected to pajr, when they found equally good sites were let to others at from £1 to £110s. a foot, and on easier conditions. There objections were entertained as reasonable, and the Government reduced the rent to £1 10s. per foot. While the more valuable sites on Norwich Quay are let for a term of twenty-one years certain, at from £1 to £1 10s. per foot, the Government demand from the Loan Company, for the one year's occupation of the shed B in dispute, £1,200, which would be equal to £3 per foot, after allowing rent of building at 8 per cent, on the £3,000 paid by the Government. These are only a few instances of the uncertain way in which the various Governments dealt with these sites. There are three ways in which the Committee can deal with the petitioner's case : (1.) By recommending that the agreement entered into by Mr. Conyers and the representatives of the company, submitted to the Government in Mr. Conyer's letter of the 30th September, 1879, be given effect to, as it appears from the evidence of Mr. J. Macandrew, who was then Minister for Public Works, that he would have given effect to it had it been officially brought under his notice. (2.) That the Committee recommend that the company be granted a lease of store B, for a term ending in 1899, on similar conditions on which the Norwich Quay sites are let, with the exception of valuation for buildings at the end of the term, the rent to be assessed as follows—viz., in consideration of the site being of lesser value .^Jian the Norwich Quay sites, the rent be £1 ss. per foot frontage, and the addition of £180, being 6 per cent, on £3,000, the value of the buildings paid by the Government to the company, htfihg equal to a rent of £554 a year. (3.) If the Committee consider that the company is entitled to any allowance for excessive rent paid, arising out of the uncertain action of ' various Governments, and actual loss on dumping plant, and expenditure on Officer's Point, this would be represented by £200 a year to the end of the,term, 1899, and, if recommended by the Committee, would reduce the rent to £354 a year,

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No. 256—Petition of William Foughy, Auckland. The petitioner states that he was the contractor for the engine-sheds at the railway station, Auckland ; that he was put to extra expense for material, owing to the second plan (supplied to him after entering into the contract) being an extended plan of detail plan No. 3 and cross-section No. 2; that he completed the contract, and sent in a claim for £127 155., being amount for material and extra work caused through such alteration in plan. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That, as the detail drawings of the roof of the building do not correspond to the general plan, the petitioner has been put to extra cost in consequence. The Committee therefore recommend that he be paid the difference, as calculated from the schedule prices attached to his tender. The Committee further recommend that for the future correct plans be forwarded for the information of tenderers. Ist August, 1883.

No. 16.—Petition of Thomas W. P. Smith, Kaitaia. The petitioner states that a Court of inquiry was held at Manganui, in May of this year, into some supposed irregularities in the Kaitaia Volunteer list, at which Court your petitioner was a witness ; that a rumour was current that he had given false evidence, which rumour was traced to the report of the presiding Magistrates. He prays that an inquiry may be made into the reasons for two officers of the Government making a false and calumnious report to the Government. lam directed to report: That, from the evidence before the Committee, it does not appear that any publicity was given to the report referred to, and said by petitioner to contain charges against himself. The Committee do not, therefore, consider it a case which they are justified in dealing with. Ist August, 1883.

Nos. 154, 266, 267, 269, and 270.—Petitions of L. Pozzi and Others (No. 1), William Nixon and Others, Alfeed Bastings and Others (No. 2), E. G. Chiffey and Others (No. 3), and Alfeed Beagg and Others. The petitioners pray that the Extension of Hours of Polling Act may pass into law. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that these petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 2nd August, 1883.

Nos. 123 and 310.—Petitions of E. G. Chiffey and Others (No. 2), and Eobeet Haedy and Others (No. 2). The petitioners pray that the Eight Hours Bill may pass into law. I am directed to report: That, the subject-matter of these petitions being now before the House, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 2nd August, 1883.

Nos. 155, 268, 271, 272, 273, 274, and 275.—Petitions of Leonaed Pozzi and Others (No. 2), H. Hobbs and Others, E. Goldston and Others, E. Eutheefoed and Others, W. Weeey and Others, J. Mclvee and Others, and T. Sneddon and Others. The petitioners pray that the Constitution Act may be amended so that no person shall have more than one vote. lam directed to report: That, as the subject-matter of these petitions is now before the House, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 2nd August, 1883.

Nos. 114, 116, and 276.—Petitions of Edwaed Geoeoe Chiffey and Others (No. 1), John Keogh and Others, and Eobbet Haedy and Others (No. 1). The petitioners pray that the Workmen's Lien Act may pass into law. I am directed to report: That, the subject-matter of these petitions being now before the the House, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 2nd August, 1883.

No. 161.—Petition of Alfeed Edwaed Woodcock and Others. The petitioners pray for a rebate of duty on glass for vineries. lam directed to recommend: That the petition be referred to Government for consideration. 3rd August, 1883.

No. 248.—Petition of Thomas Fobd and Others. The petitioners pray for a railway siding between Waicola and Woodland. I am directed to recommend : That the petition be referred to the Government for consideration 3rd August, 1883.

No. 303.—Petition of Martin Mahon. The petitioner states that he was a member of the Forest Eifle Volunteers, and that he has not received his remission certificate. He prays for relief. I am directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make on the petitioner's case. 3rd August, 1883.

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No. 294.—Petition of Stephen Duffey and Others, Wanganui. The petitioners claim land as old soldiers, their claims having been refused by the Eoyal Commission. They pray for relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make on the claims of the petitioners. 3rd August, 1833.

No. 299.—Petition of Thomas Bareon, Auckland. The petitioner prays that land scrip may be issued to him for service rendered to the colony as a Naval Volunteer. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make to the House on the claim of the petitioner. 3rd August, 1883.

No. 292.—Petition of Heney Eobeets, Kaipara. The petitioner claims sixty acres of land as a military settler; he states that he was too ill to attend the Commission when it sat at the Thames, and was told. afterwards that he was too late. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make to the House on petitioner's case. 3rd August, 1883.

No. 305.—Petition of Fanny Withees, Auckland. The petitioner states she is the widow of the late Major Edward Withers, New Zealand Militia; that her late husband was actively and exclusively employed in the service of the colony for the past twenty-one years, up to the time of his death. The petitioner states she is left with three children without adequate means for their support and education. She prays for relief. I am directed to report : That the Committee considers that the services of the late Major Withers having been for many years of an important character, the case is one that should meet with some consideration, and refer the matter to the favourable consideration of the Government. 7th August, 1883.

No. 304.—Petition of W. Lightfoot and other Members of Fire Brigades. The petitioners state that they are members of the United Fire Brigades of New Zealand ; that an annual competition would increase the usefulness of such brigades; they feel that their resources are totally inadequate to meet the whole expense, and therefore pray for assistance. I am directed to report : That the petition be referred to the favourable consideration of the Government. 7th August, 1883.

No. 145. —Petition of Archibald Moegan, Christchurch. The petitioner states that from July, 1859, to June, 1883, he acted as Drill Instructor to the various Volunteer corps in the District of Canterbury; that for thirteen years he has performed the duties of Adjutant in the Volunteer Office at Christchurch ; that through illness he was unable to attend to his duties and called upon to resign; that at the end of June last he was dismissed as unfit for service. He prays for an inquiry, and that a sum of money may be granted him. lam directed to report: That the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 7th August, 1883.

No. 332. —Petition of John Lynch, Eiverton. The petitioner prays for compensation for services rendered during the war 1861-66. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make in the case of the petitioner. Bth August, 1883.

No. 348. —Petition of James McCokmick, Thames. The petitioner states that he has been enrolled as a Volunteer in New Zealand for upwards of eleven years, and prays that the usual remission certificate provided for by " The Volunteer Land Act, 1865," may be granted to him. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make in the case of the petitioner. Bth August, 1883.

No. 349. —Petition of Bichakd Madden, Auckland. The petitioner states that he was in the Ist Waikato Militia, and served during the Waikato war until discharged as unfit for future service through exposure. He prays for compensation for such service in land or money. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make in the case of the petitioner. Bth August, 1883.

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No. 119. —Petition of Thomas MacNamaea, Dunedin. The petitioner states that on the Ist September, 1863, he entered the service of the Provincial Government of Otago as a Warder of the Dunedin Prison; that he retired from the service on the 4th of May last on account of ill-health ; that he received as compensation £150, equal to one year's pay, which he considers inadequate as compared with the compensation allowed to other officers on their retirement. He prays for additional compensation. I am directed to report : That the Committee, having made full inquiry, are of opinion that under the circumstances of the petitioner's case the Government have made a fair retiring allowance to the petitioner, and cannot therefore recommend the claim of the petitioner to the favourable consideration of the House. Bth August, 1883.

No. 298.—Petition of W. H. Bates, Hokianga. The petitioner, on behalf of the Hokianga County Council, complains of the non-fulfilment of the agreement for the construction of a trunk system of railways, so far as the section north of Auckland is concerned. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. Bth August, 1883. '

No. 307.—Petition of J. E. F. Coyle (No. 2), Dunedin. The petitioner prays that the House would reconsider the claim for losses sustained by him in Survey Contract No. 13, Canterbury District, and award him relief by giving effect to the Public Petitions Committee's recommendations in the session of 1881 and the present session. lam directed to report: That, having already reported on the case of the petitioner this session, the Committee have no further recommendation to make. Bth August, 1883.

No. 186.—Petition of Nathaniel Wilson. The petitioner, on behalf of the Rodney County Council, prays that the construction of the trunk system of railways from Invercargill to the Bay of Islands may be completed, so as to include the section north of Auckland. lam directed to report: That the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. Bth August, 1883. s

No. 293.—Petition of John Jobson, Sheffield. The petitioner, on behalf of thirty-nine householders in the locality of Sheffield, prays that Sheffield might be constituted a town district under the provisions of " The Town Districts Act, 1881." lam directed to report: That the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. Bth August, 1883.

No. 350.—Petition of John Buchanan and Others (No. 1), Auckland. The petitioners, ship-owners and ship-masters, of the Port of Auckland, state that the pilotage exemption certificates of this colony are of very little value to the holders of them, on account of the exemption being for the ship and not for the master or mate. They request that they may be assimilated to those of the neighbouring colonies of Australia. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th August, 1883.

Nos. 368, 369, 382, and 395. —Petitions of Thomas Eathees and Others, Chaeles A. Ogilvie and Others, E. D. Paekes and Others, and-WiLLiAM Thomson and Others. The petitioners pray that the Local Option Extension Act may pass into law. I am directed to report-: That, as the subject-matter of these petitions is now before the House, the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any recommendation to the House. 9th August, 1883.

No. 287. —Petition of Heebeet P. Kawson, Wellington. The petitioner and other registered dentists in the colony ask to be treated as belonging to the medical profession, and pray that they may be relieved from attendance on juries. lam directed to report: That the Committee see no sufficient reason to exempt the petitioners from serving on juries, and cannot, therefore, recommend their claim to the favourable consideration of the House. 9th August, 1883.

No. 309. —Petition of Edwaed Allen, Jan., Cambridge. The petitioner states that in April, 1883, he loaded two trucks of fat cattle at Ohaupo Eailwaystation to be conveyed to R,emuera; that through delay in transit one of the bullocks died,, for which he claims £12. lam directed ."to report: That, from the evidence submitted to the Committee, it does not appear that the loss sustained by the petitioner was caused by neglect of the Eailway Department; the Committee cannot therefore recommend the claim of the petitioner to the favourable consideration of the House. 9th August, 1883.

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No. 329. —Petition of Eichabd Salteb, Auckland. The petitioner states that he is owner of a house and allotment in Upper Queen Street; that in making Upper Queen Street the Board of the Karangahape District made a cutting which caused hint to remove his house, and inflicted serious damage to Iris property, which cost him an expense of £157 10s. 6d. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the colony is not responsible for the loss sustained by individuals through the action of local bodies; the Committee cannot, therefore, recommend the petitioner's claim to the favourable consideration of the House. 9th August, 1883.

No. 327. —Petition of Feedekick G. Mace and Another, Patea. The petitioners state that, in the performance of a contract to construct the Normanby and Hawera section of permanent-way, it became necessary to open a gravel-pit at great expense ; that at the completion of their contract the Government took over the line to the gravel-pit. They now pray for compensation. lam directed to report: That, as no further evidence has been offered in this case, the Committee adhere to the report of last session. 9th August, 1883.

Nos. 326, 334, 339, 340, 341, and 358.—Petitions of S. Osgood and Others, A. C. Iveesen and Others, S. Lawny and Others, E. Vealb and Others, Maby Jane Coyle and Others, John Febguson and Others. The petitioners pray that the House will pass into law the Local Option Extension Act. lam directed to report: That, as the subject-matter of these petitions is now;under the consideration of the House, the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any recommendation to the House. 9th August, 1883.

No. 357. —Petition of Henby Keane and Others. The petitioners, members of the Licensed Vituallers' Association, and licensed persons in the Provincial District of Canterbury, pray that the Licensing Acts, 1881 and 1882, may be amended. I am directed to report: That, as the Licensing Act is now before the House, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 9th August, 1883. -

No. 179. —Petition of Thomas Stewabt. The petitioner states that he was a member of the late Colonial Defence Force, and served from the beginning of the war, in 1863, until it was disbanded, in 1864; that he was promised by the late Colonel Nixon, on behalf of the Government, a grant of land, which promise has not been fulfilled. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee find that there is no record showing that Colonel Nixon was authorized by the Government to make a promise of land to the corps, and cannot, therefore, recommend his claim to the favourable consideration of the House. 9th August, 1883.

No. 372. —Petition of Fritz Jensen, Palmerston. The petitioner, Mayor of Palmerston, states that a Bill was passed in 1879 intituled the Palmer- " ston North Eeserves Act, granting to the Borough of Palmerston North a section of ground, with a building thereon, for the purposes of a hospital; that a hospital of considerable proportions has become a necessity owing to the increased population. The Borough Council therefore prays that Sections 1021 and 1019, on the plan of the Township of Palmerston North, may be made over to them as a site for the proposed hospital. lam directed to report: That the petition be referred to the Government for consideration 10th August, 1883.

No. 398.—Petition of P. Day and Others, Mosgiel. The petitioners state that in 1880 the Government granted the use of a disused post and telegraph office for an athenaeum, library, and mechanics' institute; that the building has been faithfully used for that purpose ever since. They pray that the land and building thereon may be granted to the Mosgiel Town Board and their successors for an athenaeum, mechanics' institute, and public library. lam directed to report: That the Committee recommend that the petitioners have the use of the building rent-free, so long as it is not required for General Government purposes. 10th August, 1883.

Nos. 375 and 376.—Petitions of W. Sonnbss and Others, Gore District; and Bobbbt (Humming and Others, Chalton District. The petitioners pray that the Gore to Kelso line of railway be at once proceeded with. lam directed to report: That these petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 10th August, 1883.

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No. 302.—Petition of Eobebt McClune, Auckland. The petitioner states that he resides at and is a landowner of Bombay, in the District of Auckland; that in making the Pukekohe-Bombay Eoad a cutting was made of seven chains in length, which has since caused slips and the necessity of removing his fence, for which he claims £40 in compensation for the expense and loss of land. I am directed to report : That the Committee cannot recommend the petitioner's claim for compensation against the colony. 10th August, 1883.

No. 380.—Petition of Daniel P. Buckley. The petitioner states that he is late corporal of H.M. 58th Eegiment, and that he spent eight yeaiß of the best part of his life in the faithful service of the New Zealand Government against the rebel Natives. He prays for a grant of land. am directed to report: That, this claim having been inquired into by a special Commission and rejected, the Committee have no recommendation to make to the House on the petitioner's case. 10th August, 1883.

No. 215.—Petition of Eobeet Colthee Geay, Okato. The petitioner states that in 1867 he purchased the lease of Eural Allotment No. 25, Okato District that about eighteen months after he had entered upon the said land some of it_was taken for the Main South Eoad, the Engineer stating that the Government would pay him for it; that the Provincial Government purchased the fee-simple in the said land; that he then purchased from the Provincial Government the land under the right of purchase held by him; that he claims compensation for land taken and fencing, £130 ; that he applied to the Provincial Government, and afterwards to the General Government, for a conveyance of the said land, which has not been granted to him. He prays that the sum of £130, or such other compensation as seems just, may be paid to him, and that a Crown grant, or other legal assurance of the fee-simple of the said Allotment No. 25, may be issued to him. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to a conveyance of the land, less the road-way, in terms of his purchase from the Superintendent, but he is not entitled to any compensation from the colony. 14th August, 1883.

No. 231.—Petition of William Joseph Young, Auckland. The petitioner states that he is the son of the late Captain William Young; that his father was awarded the block of land known as Koutu Mongero, or One-Tree Point, and supposed to contain 640 acres; that petitioner applied for the Crown grant, which was refused until the land had been surveyed; that in 1875 the land was surveyed, and he was awarded by the Court sitting to investigate old land claims 225 acres, for which he received a Crown grant. He now claims compensation in respect of the balance. lam directed to report: That, having taken evidence in the case of the petitioner, the Committee are of opinion that he has produced no evidence to show that he is entitled to the land claimed ; the Committee cannot therefore recommend his claim to the favourable consideration of the House. 14th August, 1883.

No. 301.—Petition of James Holmes. The petitioner states that the "Hannah Mokau," in October, 1879, went aground at the entrance of the Mokau Eiver, and that he was directed by the insurance company's agent to proceed to Mokau to endeavour to float the vessel; that he was directed by the mate to procure a boat and tackle for use in saving the vessel; that he procured one from the Harbourmaster at Wa-itara; that in crossing the bar at the mouth of the Waitara Eiver the boat broke to pieces from sheer weakness; that he had to pay the sum of £52 for the boat to the Government. He further states that, after an ineffectual attempt to float the vessel, it was decided to abandon her on behalf of the insurance company; that he was then called upon by the captain to make a further effort, and succeeded, with the assistance of Natives, in getting her into the Mokau Eiver; that the Government then seized the vessel and sold her at a low price to pay off the mortgage held by the Government, the proceeds of the sale being considerably less than the amount of mortgage; that the insurance company have refused to pay for the salvage ; that the Natives have been rewarded by the Government, but he has received no compensation whatever. He states that he expended more than £80, including the sum of £52 paid for the boat. He prays for reasonable compensation for his money and labour spent in saving the vessel. lam directed to report: That the Committee, having fully considered the case of the petitioner, are of opinion that he has no claim against the colony for compensation. 14th August, 1883.

N0...3(54:. —Petition of Geoege Mullengee, Auckland. The petitioner prays for an inquiry into his dismissal as Inspector of Permanent-Way, Auckland Railway. lam directed to report: That the Committee, having inquired into this case last session, do not consider it necessary to alter the decision then arrived at. 14th August, 1883.

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No. 300.—Petition of Eobeet Feeguson and Others. The petitioners complain of the conduct of the Eesident Magistrate, Waikato. lam directed to report: That, as the petition is addressed to the Minister of Justice, the Committee are of opinion that it should be referred to him. 16th August, 1883.

No. 409.—Petition of John McGibbon and Others, Gordon District. The petitioners pray that the railway from Kelso to Gore may be proceeded with. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 16th August, 1883.

Nos. 407 and 417.—Petitions of J. Middleton and Others and Henet Jeeomson and Others. The petitioners pray that the Local Option Extension Act may pass into law. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that, the subject-matter of these petitions being now before the House, they have no recommendation to make to the House. 16th August, 1883.

No. 424.—Petition of Chables Labkins and Others. The petitioners state they are desirous that the present licensing laws now in force in New Zealand should be altered and amended as indicated in their petition. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that, as the subject-matter of this petition is now before the House, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 16th August, 1883.

No. 367. —Petition of Young, Pope, and Co. The petitioners state that they were in partnership as mail contractors, and entered into a contract with the Government to carry the mails by coach between Tauranga and the Thames; that at the time the contract was entered into the roads were in good repair; that in the month of February, 1883, the roads became destroyed by floods, thereby stopping coach traffic; that they then carried the mails on horseback, by which they suffered great loss through not being able to carry passengers; that the roads not being reconstructed, they were compelled to sell their plant at great loss. They pray for compensation. lam directed to report: That, having carefully inquired into the claims of the petitioners, the Committee do not consider they have any claim for compensation against the colony. 16th August, 1883.

No. 347. —Petition of G. H. Engles, Palmerston North. The petitioner, Chairman of the Manawatu Eoad Board, states that the Board has no option but must adopt, in accordance with the provisions of "The Eating Act, 1882," the valuation roll as prepared by the Commissioner under " The Property Assessment Act, 1879." He prays that " The Eating Act, 1882," may be so amended as to enable local bodies to make their own valuations of rateable property in their respective districts. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 17th August, 1883.

No. 400.—Petition of E. J. Deighton, Wairoa, Hawke's Bay. The petitioner states that he is one of the only few now left of the early pioneer founders of the colony; that on one notable occasion, voluntarily (without remuneration) he rendered a service, which certainly was the means of saving the lives of many, together with an incalculable amount of property —he alludes to the time when Te Eangihaeta and his men were killing the settlers and destroying their homesteads at the Taita in 1846. He further states he was residing at Wanganui at the "time when a large war party under Te Eauparaha was on the point of joining the aforementioned chief; he then undertook to carry a despatch to Sir George Grey, the then Governor, in time for him to take steps to prevent their coalescence. This important service, at the risk of his own life, he satisfactorily performed; that he has since then, as a Volunteer, been in several engagements with the Natives; that he is now, and has been for nearly the last thirteen years, a helpless cripple, kept by his wife's industry. He prays that his case may be favourably entertained, and that for. his services and his present helpless condition he may be allowed a small pension to save him in his old age (now sixty-four) from utter destitution ; he would feel grateful also for a small sum to put his dwelling into a habitable state of repair. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the case of the petitioner and the evidence given by of Sir George Grey, X.C.8., be forwarded to the Government for favourable consideration. 17th August, 1883.

No. 423^— Petition of Bichaed Skinneb, Manukau. The petitioner states that he served with his regiment, the 58th, through the first Maori war at the Bay of Islands and elsewhere, and was discharged in 1858. He prays that a grant of land may be made to him. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make to the House on the case of the petitioner. 17th August, 1883. 3—l. 1.

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No. 422.—Petition of Joseph Wise and Others, Dunedin. The petitioners, articled law clerks of Dunedin, complain that they are considerably prejudiced by "The Law Practitioners Act, 1882;" that the said Act contains no saving clause by which are exempted from its operations law students who, at the time of passing that Act, were under articles. They pray for relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee recommend the prayer of the petitioners to the favourable consideration of the House. 17th August, 1883.

No. 425.—Petition of William George Garrard (No. 2), Auckland. The petitioner states that he has been grossly wronged at the hands of Thomas Cottle, acting as Eeturning Officer for the Government. He prays for relief. I am directed to report: That the Committee, having fully inquired into the petitioner's case last session, see no reason to alter the decision then arrived at. 17th August, 1883.

No. 435.—Petition of Andrew Thompson (No. 3), Waikouaiti. The petitioner states that he is informed that the House has decided that the Courts of law are the proper places to decide whether Mr. James Green, M.H.E., is qualified or not to hold his seat; that he has done everything he could to bring the matter before the law-courts, but his bond was refused. He prays for relief. I am directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make on the petitioner's case. 17th August, 1883.

No. 438. —Petition of Hubert Dolphine and Others, Mokihinui. The petitioners pray that a bridge may be erected across the Eiver Ngakawa, nineteen miles north of Westport. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 21st August, 1883.

No. 487. —Petition of Joseph Tayloe and Others. The petitioners, residents of Wallsend, Taylorville, and Brunnerton, ask for the construction of a foot-bridge over the river between the Townships of Wallsend and Taylorville. No. 473. —Petition of W. F. Knight and Others. The petitioners, residents of Tahoraite, Waipawa County, ask that the railway-line may be extended, and that a railway-station may be erected at the Tahoraite Settlement. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that these petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 23rd August, 1883.

, No. 220.—Petition of W. L. Fowler and Others. The petitioners, residents of the southern portion of the Westland Educational District, complain of the unjustifiable and illegal conduct of the Central Board, and that a total want of confidence in the Central Board, as at present constituted, prevails. They pray that Westland may be constituted a separate educational district. I am directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 23rd August, 1883.

No. 490.—Petition of T. M. Lane. The petitioner, Chairman of the Mongo'nui County, asks that the construction of a trunk system of railways may be completed. No. 489.—Petition of E. Thompson. The petitioner, Chairman of a County Council north of Auckland, asks that the construction of a trunk system of railways may be completed. I am directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that these petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 23rd August, 1883.

No. 450.—Petition of C. H. Eussell and Others. The petitioners, subscribers to the Stirling Athengsum, pray that an endowment of Crown land may be set apart for the same. I am directed to reporjfc: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 24th August, 1883.

No. 419.—Petition of Archibald Smith. The petitioner states that for fourteen years he performed the duties of boatman and acting Locker in the Customs, Auckland; that through ill health he was compelled to retire from the service; and that he has been awarded a pension of £27 13s. per annum. He prays for further consideration.

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lam directed to report: That the Committee consider that the petitioner has been treated with great consideration by the_ Government, and cannot recommend any deviation from the regulations under which he now receives a retiring allowance. 24th August, 1883.

No. 448.—Petition of J. B. Harcouet and Others, Wellington. The petitioners, Chairman and members of the Chamber of Commerce, Wellington, pray that the House will reject the Fire and Marine Insurance Companies Bill, 1883. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that, as the subject-matter of this petition is now before the House, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 24th August, 1883.

No. 355.—Petition of David O. Preshaw and Others. The petitioners, residents of the west coast of the Middle Island, pray that the Counties of Buller, Inangahua, Grey, and Westland may be united into one educational district. lam 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 make any recommendation. 24th August, 1883.

No. 469.—Petition of E. Fitzpateiok and Others. The petitioners, residents of Waikato, state that they hear with regret that a petition has been presented to the House, praying for the removal of Mr. H. W. Northcroft, E.M., from the district. They pray that the said Mr. Northcroft do remain in his present position of Eesident Magistrate for the Waikato District. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th August, 1883.

No. 451.—Petition of William Fowlee, Palmerston, Otago. The petitioner states that he is owner of property situated in the Town of Palmerston; that it had a frontage to the main street; that the railway has been constructed close to his boundary-fence, thereby depriving him of the ordinary right-of-way. He now prays for compensation. lam directed to report: That the Committee adhere to the report of the Committee in 1877, and refer the matter to the Government for consideration. 30th August, 1883.

No. 498. —Petition of Andrew Thompson and Others (No. 4), Waikouaiti. The petitioners request the House to recommend the Government to take steps to have Waikouaiti Bay formed into a ship harbour. No. 501. —Petition of Henry Nairn and Others. The petitioners, inhabitants of Frasertown and surrounding district, County of Wairoa, ask that Frasertown may be connected by telephone with the nearest telegraph office at Clyde. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that these petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th August, 1883.

No. 249.—Petition of 0. Nicholson and Others. The petitioners state that they are farmers, pastoral "tenants, miners, and others, of Moa Flat, Miller's Flat, Horse-shoe Bend, and Ettrick, in the Provincial District of Otago. They pray that a traffic bridge over the Biver Molyneux may be constructed adjacent to the Township of Ettrick. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th August, 1883.

No. 194. —Petition of Bichaed Dale, Dunedin. The petitioner states that he is a driver of locomotive engines; that he was so employed by the Provincial Government of Otago from 1865, and subsequently by the General Government up to the 30th September, 1882; that on the 30th September, 1882, he was dismissed from the service of the General Government without cause, and that no proper reason was given as the cause of such dismissal. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That, having made inquiry into this case, the Committee are of opinion that the refusal of the department to allow the petitioner a Board of inquiry, and dispensing with his services'on the ground that he was not good enough for the service, when no charges of inefficiency had been made agaiast him, and after many years of service to the Provincial and General Governments, and the further refusal to give the petitioner a character, except one in which it was stated that the prisoner had been dismissed from the service, inflicted a great hardship on the petitioner, and greatly impaired his chances of obtaining other employment, and that the petitioner is entitled to the favourable consideration of the Government, 30th August, 1883,

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No. 418.—Petition of Charles John Johnston, Wellington. The petitioner states that, in October, 1881, he was captain of the Wellington Naval Brigade ; that, on the 20th October of that year, he received urgent orders from the Government to have his men that had volunteered for active service ready to proceed to Opunake ; that he waited on Colonel Reader, and received from him positive instructions to obtain such articles of clothing as the men required; that the clothing was made in Wellington and the men fitted out; that the account for clothing, which he has paid, amounts to £380 145., which the Government refuses to pay. He prays that the House will grant the sum of £380 145., and such further relief as the House may think fit. lam directed to report: That the expenditure for clothing having been made by the officers commanding the Naval Volunteers at a time requiring prompt action, and under verbal instructions from the Under-Secretary for Defence in Wellington, which instructions were liable to misapprehension ; and considering that the time allowed to elapse by the Government before declining payment of the uniforms was so great as to prejudice the recovery of any disputed amount from the men, the Committee recommend the Government to give effect to the prayer of the petitioner, and pay the amount claimed. 30th August, 1883.

Nos. 502 and 503.—Petitions of John S. Hudson and Others and Geobge Etee and Others. The petitioners pray that the Local-Option Extension Act may pass into law. I am directed to report: That, the subject-matter of these petitions being now before the House, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 30th August, 1883.

No. 449. —Petition of Geobg-e Longhubst, Wellington. The petitioner states that on the 9th April, 1880, he was convicted and sentenced to ten years' penal servitude, with two floggings, for an alleged offence of rape ; that he is now undergoing penal servitude, and has suffered two floggings ; that in the month of June, 1882, he was advised that certain additional evidence had been discovered which raised a strong presumption that he had been falsely charged with the said crime; that Genevieve Elizabeth Adams and James Jonathan Adams were arraigned on the charge of conspiracy and found guilty. That by reason of the foregoing facts he prays that he may receive such relief as the House can afford from the penalty imposed upon him. lam directed to report: That, as the Committee will be unable to enter into the whole of the evidence in this case owing to the late period of the session at which the petition was presented, the Committee are of opinion that the matter be referred to the Government for their consideration. 30th August, 1883.

No. 500.—Petition of Martha Smith, Wellington. The petitioner states that she is the widow of Ben Smith, late of Waipawa, in the Hawke's Bay District ; that on the morning of the Bth March last her husband was killed by a passing train while crossing the railway bridge on the line between Waipawa and Waipukurau; that in the year 1882 the House voted a sum of money for the purpose of erecting foot-bridges on the said railway bridge, but up to the day of the fatal accident no steps had been taken to carry it out. She submits that had the foot-bridges been erected the accident would not have occurred; that she is left, in her declining years, without means of support. She therefore prays the House will recompense her for the loss she has sustained. lam directed to report: That, having inquired into the case of the petitioner, the Committee cannot make any recommendation in favour of compensation. 31st August, 1883. •'

No. 285.—Petition of John Bkown, Invercargill. The petitioner states that a contract for the sujjply of fencing for the Eailway Department was entered into by John Weeks ; that he advanced money to the said Weeks to enable him to pay labour ; that by way of security the proceeds or payments were legally assigned to him ; that a sum of £100 11s. 6d. was stopped by the Eailway Department in payment of some old debt alleged to be due by John Weeks; that he is the loser through such stoppage of payment. He prays the House will extend to this matter such consideration as in justice it demands. lam directed to report: That the Committee, having carefully inquired into the petitioner's case, are of opinion that he has no claim against the Government. 31st August, 1883.

No. 471. —Petition of Honoea MgManus, Thames. The petitioner states that she had charge of the Church School, Thames, and that, without any fault having been found, the school was closed and her services dispensed with ; that she has only had seven months' employmiSat during the year, by which she has suffered great loss. She prays for redress. lam directetMo report: That the Committee are of opinion that the subject-matter of this petition is one for the Auckland Education Board to deal with, and the Committee do not consider it desirable to interfere with their functions. 31st August, 1883.

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No. 331.—Petition of Eakaia and Ashbdeton Foeks Bail way Company. The petitioners, directors and shareholders of the Eakaia and Ashburton Forks Eailway Company, pray that the amount of arrears due be paid to the said company, and that the whole of the £7 per centum guaranteed to the company be paid by the Government, who shall then proceed to levy the rate, or that the said railway be taken over by the Government. No. 429.—Petition of J. C. Wason and Others. The petitioners, ratepayers of Ashburton County, proposed to bo assessed by the Eakaia and Ashburton Forks Eailway Company, state that the said company are not entitled to any relief from the Legislature, and suggest the appointment of a Commission to inquire into the facts of the case. lam directed to report: That, the subject-matter of these petitions having been dealt with by the House, the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any recommendation. 31st August, 1883.

No. 411.—Petition of Eichaed Middleton Simpson, Wellington. The petitioner states that he was captain of the New Zealand Engineer Corps of Wellington, which corps was disbanded by the Defence Minister under the new Volunteer Eegulations; that in October, 1881, he received urgent orders to proceed to Opunake with the men who had volunteered for active service; that he waited on Colonel Reader, from whom he received positive instructions to equip his men and to obtain such articles of clothing as his men required; he at once gave orders for the clothing to be made, which was done and the men fitted out; that the account for clothing— £91 145., was sent to the Defence Department, and that only £28 12s. was paid by the department, the balance, £63 25., still remains due to him. He also claims £60, an advance for paying off liabilities, and to be charged against future capitation, which, owing to the disbandment of the corps, they were unable to liquidate. He further claims the sum of £47 os. sd. for maintaining and keeping in repair the Government boats on issue to his corps during the time of its existence. He prays that the House will grant him the following sums: £63 25., £60, and £47 os. 5d., and such further relief as may seem meet. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to the sum of £148, and recommend that the amount be paid, less the sum of £26 10s. alleged to have been paid by the Defence Department to the contractor, Mr. Huxley, of which there is no record. 31st August, 1883.

No. 306. —Petition of Edwaed Leopold. The petitioner states that he was employed as a fireman on the railway between Pahnerston South and Oamaru for about eighteen months, during which time two springs broke under the part of the engine where he had to stand, which caused severe internal injuries, and compelled him to give up his work and go into hospital, where he remained for seven weeks. He further states he has not been able to do any work since. He prays that, under the circumstances, he may be made some allowance until able to resume duty. lam directed to report: That the Committee recommend that the petitioner be paid the usual allowance in the case of persons injured in the railway service. 31st August, 1883.

No. 403.—Petition of James Pearce, Pahautanui. The petitioner states that he is the owner of fifty acres of laud at Pahautanui; that he felled the bush and erected a dividing fence on the line cleared out by the Government Surveyor; that the land was surveyed seven years after by another Government surveyor, who made out his fence was on the wrong line. Some time after his neighbours proceeded to erect a dividing fence upon what he believed to be his land, which fence he removed. He was proceeded against in the Supreme Court, and had to pay damages and costs amounting to £240. He prays the House will grant him some recompense. lam directed to report: That the Committee consider the case one of hardship, but under the circumstances do not feel justified in recommending compensation; but are of opinion that, in the case of disputed boundary arising out of inaccurate survey, the Survey Department should define the line so as to avoid litigation if possible. 31st August, 1883.

No. 519.—Petition of John Doughebty. The petitioner states that, in 1880 and 1881, he petitioned the House for cattle destroyed unlawfully in the Ahaura District in the year 1876 by order of the Government Inspector; that the Committee reported he had not exhausted his legal remedy; that since then he has made every effort to obtain justice against the Government Inspector, but has failed-to do so, that person having left the colony. He prays fortelief. lam directed to, report: That it appears, from the evidence before the Committtee, that the petitioner has not exhausted his legal remedy. The Committee, however, consider that, under the whole circumstances of the case, the petitioner is entitled to fair compensation for the loss of his cattle, caused by the illegal action of the Government Inspector Naden, 3rd September, 1883.

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No. 512.—Petition of William Gledhill and Others. The petitioners, mechanics and labourers of Christchurch and surrounding districts of Canterbury, state that there are a large number of unemployed at the present time, and complain of the serious consequences to them of the Government importing rolling-stock from England and America that can be made here. lam directed to report: That, having considered the case of the petitioners, the Committee would call the attention of the Government to the necessity which exists of instituting some works at which the petitioners could find employment, or of removing them to such places where labour appears to be in demand; and that in future such rolling-stock as can be manufactured in the colony should be so manufactured. 3rd September, 1883.

No. 511. —Petition of John Buchanan and Others (No. 2). The petitioners state that they have sustained considerable loss from fires caused by sparks from railway engines; they further state that they believe, by a small expenditure, such locomotives could be prevented from emitting sparks which would cause such fires. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration, with the view of preventing, as far as possible, fires arising out of the sparks from railway engines. 3rd September, 1883.

No. 433. —Petition of Cranley N. Perry, Tuakau, Auckland. The petitioner prays for compensation for the loss of two heifers killed by the railway train passing between Tuakau and Buckland Stations, at an unfenced part of the line. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 3rd September, 1883.

No. 518.—Petition of William Harris, Wellington. The petitioner states that he was Serjeant in Her Majesty's 65th Eegiment; that he was two years and a half in the Police Force in Wellington, when_he was discharged through an injury to his leg when on duty; that he was also wounded in trying to capture a runaway prisoner. He further states that- the injury to his leg prevents him working for a livelihood. He prays for relief. lam directed to report: That the petitioner's injuries appear to have been received during his service in the Police Force of the Wellington Province, and that application was made for compensation and not entertained by the Provincial Government. The Committee does not consider the colony is liable under the circumstances to pay compensation. 3rd September, 1883.

No. 517. —Petition of Milson Jones and Others, Selwyn. The petitioners, electors of the County of Selwyn, complain of the closing of the Resident Magistrate's Court at Leeston. They pray that the Eesident Magistrate's Court may be reopened at Leeston for the transaction of business as before. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 3rd September, 1883.

No. 505. —Petition of William Dawson and Others. The petitioners pray that the Local-Option Extension Act may pass into law. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make to the House on the subject-matter of this petition. 3rd September, 1883.

Nos. 513, 514, 515, and 516.—Petitions of M. W. McKenzie and Others, Archibald Mahon and Others, John Dean and Others, and John Mcßeenie and Others. The petitioners pray that the present free, secular, and compulsory clauses of the Education Act may be maintained intact, and not allow any alteration therein to be made. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make to the House on these petitions. 3rd September, 1883.

JSfo. 509.—Petition of George Lumb,' Dunedin. The petitioner states that he was Eevenue Officer for the Province of Otago in 1876; that the province was indebted to him in a sum of money amounting to £168 3s. 6d., money expended by him in the execution of his duties during the period from 1871 to 1876. He prays for relief. I am directed to report: That the Committee, having carefully inquired into this case, are pf opinion that he has no claim against the colony. 3rd September, 1883.

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No. 538.—Petition of Angelique Therasse. The petitioner states that she arrived in Wellington in July, 1883; that on the Bth August she was arrested for stealing a mantle, which she states was purchased by her in Christchurch; that she was committed and sentenced to one month's imprisonment with hard labour; that from inquiries made in Christchurch as to the purchase of the mantle at that place the statement was corroborated, and she was released from gaol on the 25th August with a free pardon. She further states that she is without means, and prays the House will inquire into her case and grant her relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee, having inquired into the petitioner's case, are of opinion that she has sustained a grievous wrong, and recommend the Government to pay her the sum of £50 as compensation for the injury sustained, and £5 for her legal expenses. 4th September, 1883.

No. 504. —Petition of Thomas Wriglet and Others. The petitioners—Mayor, Councillors, burgesses, and householders of the Borough of Tauranga— state that the borough has not received any endowments; that they therefore consider the borough is entitled to the whole of the unsold lands within its limits. They pray that these lands may be vested in the Corporation of the Borough of Tauranga. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 4th September, 1833.

No. 536.—Petition of Thomas G. Hungerford, Catlin's Eiver. The petitioner states that he is Crown Lands Banger and Conservator of Forests, which he has held for the last nine years; that he was promised an increase to his salary, which has not been given effect to. He prays for consideration. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 4th September, 1883.

No. 537, —Petition of John Falloy and Others, Oamaru. The petitioners—unemployed of Oamaru and district —solicit that work may be found them. lam directed to report: That the Committee are of opinion that the petition be referred to Government for consideration. 4th September, 1883.

No. 474.—Petition of Mart Phelan, Kumara. The petitioner states that an accident occurred on the sth July, 1880, at the Sludge-channel, Kumara, through which her husband was killed, leaving herself and family unprovided for. She prays for relief. lam directed to report: That the Committee, being unable to obtain the information asked for at the Public Works Department, cannot make any recommendation to the House. 4th September, 1883.

No. 532.—Petition of Thomas Webster and Others. The petitioners—members of the Pukekaroro Eoad Board—state that their district is situated many miles from the nearest public pound. They pray that the Ordinance of 1846 and 1849 be not repealed. lam directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make in the subjectmatter of this petition. 4th September, 1883.

No. 410.—Petition of Mathew Edg-ak, Epsom, Auckland. The petitioner states that, in 1871, he entered into contract with the Auckland Provincial Government for the construction of the Eiverhead and Hellensville line of railway; that the contract was taken over by the Government, and at that time a number of sleepers were left on the ground belonging to him; that they were subsequently used by the engineers for various purposes. He prays the House to consider whether his position is such as to entitle him to recognition and relief. lam directed to report: That the evidence before the Committee does not show conclusively that any quantity of the sleepers referred to were used by the Government. The Committee cannot therefore recommend the claim to the favourable consideration of the House. 4th September, 1883.

Nos. 526, 528, 529, 530, 534, and 535.—Petitions of Mathew C. Notman and Others, William Gabbie and Others, James Clover and Others, E. Smith - and Others, James Attewell and Others, Hugh A. Bishop and Others. The petitioners pray the House to maintain intact the present free, secular, and compulsory clauses of the Education Act, and not to allow any alteration therein. I am directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make on these petitions. 4th September, 1883.

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No. 426.—Petition of William Odlum. The petitioner states that he served through the Waikato war; that he was recommended for a piece of land, and went and settled on the Onetaia Block ; that he has been in possession of the land for over eight years, and asks for the grant. I am directed to report: That it appears that the land referred to is now waste land of the Crown, and can only be dealt with as the law directs. The Committee therefore have no recommendation to make on the petitioner's case. 4th September, 1883. _____

No. 506.—Petition of Thomas Thomson, Port Chalmers. The petitioner states that he served as a Volunteer in the Port Chalmers Volunteer Naval Brigade from September, 1870, to August, 1883 ; that under the provisions of " The Volunteer Act, 1865," he was entitled to land; that he laid his claim before the Soyal Commission, which claim was not recognized. He prays for an investigation into his claim. I am directed to report: That the Committee have no recommendation to make in the petitioner's case. 4th September, 1383.

No. 523. —Petition of George Neale. The petitioner states that he is an ex-constable of the New Zealand Armed Constabulary ; that he was in the force over fifteen years, during which time he served in the Maori war ; that he has asked for, and been refused, an inquiry into serious charges made by him with reference to the conduct of his superior officers, which resulted in the termination of his services in the Police Force. He now prays for an inquiry, and that his case may be favourably considered. I am directed to report: That, owing to the late period of the session, the Committee cannot make full inquiries into this case. The Committee therefore have no recommendation to make to the House. 4th September, 1883.

No. 499.—Petition of A. P. Sutton, Masterton. The petitioner states that he was appointed a Sheep Inspector in 1879, and has been so engaged up to the present time ; he was placed in charge of the Wairarapa in 1881, and continued in charge until the 13th August last ; that certain charges were preferred against him, that he has demanded an inquiry, which has been refused. He prays that an inquiry may be instituted into his conduct as Sheep Inspector. I am directed to report: That, owing to the late perion of the session, the Committee regret they cannot deal with the case. 4th September, 1883.

No. 41.—Petition of Samuel Cbickett. The petitioner states that he took up an allotment of land at Pokeno belonging to his son, on his relinquishing his claim in petitioner's favour ; that he then erected a six-roomed house and put other improvements thereon ; that his son died without making a will ; that he resided five years on the land, and made an application for a title. It was subsequently put up for sale, without improvements, and sold by the Government. He asks that his case may be reconsidered. lam directed to report: That the Committee see no reason to alter their decision of last year. 4th September, 1883.

No. 106.—Petition of Henby Bauokb, Chatham Islands. The petitioner states that he presented a petition to the House last session, when he stated his claim to the Committee, but that the matter was left unfinished. He now prays that his case may be brought to a close. I am directed to report: That, as the subject-matter of this petition has been fully inquired into by a former Committee and dealt with, the Committee have no further recommendation to make. 6th September, 1883.

By Authority: Geobge Didsbubt, Government Printer, Wellington.—lBSS.

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