LUNATIC ASYLUMS OF THE COLONY (REPORT ON) FOR 1884.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1885 Session I, H-10

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1885. NEW ZEALAND.

LUNATIC ASYLUMS OF THE COLONY (REPORT ON) FOR 1884.

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

The Inspector of Asyltjms to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Sir,- — Lunacy Department, Wellington, 24th June, 1885. I have the honour to present my third annual report upon the state of the lunatic asylums of the colony, and upon other matters relating to insanity. On the Ist January, 1884, there were under detention 1,375 lunatics. At the close of the year this number had risen to 1,452. The increase of 77 persons here shown compares very favourably with the corresponding numbers of 106 and 93, which represented the increase of the two previous years, when the population of the colony was considerably less, and when such an annual accession of insanity could not but be regarded as unaccountably and alarmingly great. The proportion of the insane (under detention) to the population of the colony is almost the same now as it was one year ago, viz., 1 to 390 persons. In the year 1884 the proportion in England and Wales was 1 to 345; and in 1883, in New South Wales, 1 to 361. New Zealand therefore still compares favourably with older countries, as might be anticipated. It is, however, important to go a little further, and inquire as to the proportion to the general population of new cases of insanity, admitted for the first time into our asylums during the past year. These first admissions amount to 5"49 per 10,000 of the population. The proportion in England and Wales of first admissions is shown to be 541, although it is stated in the report of the Commissioners that exceptional circumstances increased it last year, and that the true proportion is 5" 15 per 10,000 persons. It is important to note that, whereas the whole of the insane under treatment in this colony are detained in the Government asylums and in one private establishment, in England and Wales no less than one-fourth of the total number are housed in workhouses and large institutions for harmless or demented patients and idiots; and that this large number (17,377) is not included in the above calculation. Were they so included, I have no doubt that New Zealand would compare more favourably with the old country in its proportion of new cases of insanity to the general population. The total number of patients treated in the asylums during the past year amounted to 1,768, and these figures do not include 9 persons confined under the provisions of the " habitual drunkards " clauses of the statute, nor those who were placed in the-asylums "on remand," and without any medical certificate of insanity. Sixty-three persons were so remanded in the year 1884, 30 of whom only were afterwards certified as of unsound mind. I—H. 10.

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During the previous year the remands numbered 137. The diminution is no doubt in some measure due to the issue of a circular on the subject by the Department of Justice to the Magistrates, but which has since been withdrawn. I have not altered my opinion that the practice of remanding without medical examination is wrong in principle, and rarely, if ever, necessary. The following table will show that the practice is almost wholly confined to the Cities of Wellington and Napier ; and it cannot but be inferred that, in these towns, many persons have been incarcerated with lunatics who would have escaped such treatment had they had the good fortune to reside in Auckland, Christchurch, or Dunedin :— Bemands. Auckland ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 0 Christchurch ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 3 Dunedin ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 0 Hokitika ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Napier ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 26 Nelson ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 Wellington ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 25 Ashburn Hall ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 68It should be noted that, in calculating the average cost per patient per annum, neither remand cases nor habitual drunkards are included as patients, although they largely contribute to the asylum expenditure. A large number of persons continue to occupy accommodation in asylums who would be fit inmates of workhouses or refuges. At present there are no establishments whither they might be transferred, but provision might be made for them under an improved scheme of charitable aid, with some relief to the overcrowding of the asylums. The insane under treatment at the close of the year 1884 were thus placed:— Asylums. Males. Females. Totals. Auckland... ... ... ... ... 215 105 320 Ashburn Hall (licensed house) ... ... 9 6 15 Christchurch . ... ... ... 221 127 348 Hokitika ... ... ... ... ... 69 31 100 Napier ... ... ... ... ... 13 3 16 Nelson ... ... ... ... ... 55 40 95 Seacliff ... ... ... ... ... 233 129 362 Wellington ... ... ... ... 123 73 196 938 514 1,452 Arrangements have, however, recently been made to use the Napier Asylum as a receiving-ward only; for the future all patients requiring more than temporary treatment will be transferred thence to Wellington. The Seacliff Asylum has lately had a large accession to the number of lunatics there under care. Some 75 patients have been removed thither from the Wellington and Christchurch institutions, with a view of remedying, in some measure, the overcrowding which existed at these two latter places. To enable this removal to be carried out the wooden buildings at Seacliff, intended originally for temporary use only, have been refurnished and put into substantial repair. The relief given will, however, serve for a short time only. Seacliff is likely to be quite full of patients by the end of the present year, while the whole of the other Government asylums already contain quite as many as they can properly accommodate. At Auckland the overcrowding becomes daily more urgent. Although plans have been prepared and approved for additional space here and elsewhere, and the necessary sums for carrying out such enlargements voted year by year by the Legislature, yet no commencement of the work has yet been made. Three hundred and twenty patients occupied, at the close of the year, buildings intended for 217 only. I consider that immediate action in the matter at Auckland is imperatively necessary. A portion, at least, of the central block, so long promised at Christchurch, should also at once be put in hand ; some temporary buildings erected on the Porirua site, near Wellington; and some trifling additions carried out at Nelson. The prospective annual increase of from 80 to 100 lunatics must in some way be provided for. It will hereafter be found economical to devote a special asylum to harmless patients ; but I have no hope of any success in this colony in the direction of boarding out lunatics,

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The system appears to he favourably regarded in Victoria, where, however, it lias not yet received any trial. Admissions. During the year 1884, 238 males and 153 females, total 391 patients, were admitted into the colonial asylums; 81 of these cases were readmissions. The alleged causes of the insanity call for no remark. Discharges. Two hundred and twenty-two patients received their discharge; 166 of these had recovered, 26 were relieved, and 30 were not improved. The proportion of recoveries to admissions was 42"45 per cent, or almost exactly the same good result as in the previous year. A large number of patients were permitted to rejoin their friends, on leave, for longer or shorter periods. Deaths. Ninty-two deaths occurred during the year. With two exceptions all were from ordinary causes. A patient who had escaped from the Sunnyside Asylum some weeks previously was found dead in the Heathcote Stream, close by. He was not suicidally inclined, and the Coroner's jury found that he had died in a fit. A death from scalding at the Wellington Asylum was alluded to in last year's report. No less than 11 deaths at Seacliff are attributed to chest-diseases, and I cannot but think that in the cold and damp state of the new buildings is to be found the cause of so large a mortality. The death-rate, calculated upon the total number treated in all the asylums, was 520 per cent, and upon the average number resident, 6"53. The proportion of deaths to admissions was 2352 per cent. Casualties. The faulty construction of a window-frame at Seacliff enabled a suicidal patient to throw himself from the third storey of the building. The injuries sustained were slight, and he has since recovered his sanity and returned to England. At Nelson a patient escaped in September last, and, having eluded all attempts to recapture him within the period of fourteen days allowed by the Act, was discharged from the Eegister of Lunatics. He shortly afterwards attempted to murder a man by shooting him with a gun which he had stolen. The recent murder of an attendant by a patient regarded as harmless, and employed in agriculture at the Auckland Asylum, was a deplorable event, but apparently could not have been prevented by any ordinary precautions. Cost of Maintenance. The amount collected during the year for maintenance of patients by the Asylum Superintendents was £4,735 6s. lOd. This must, I think, be regarded as a very satisfactory return, when the legal and other difficulties surrounding the matter are taken into consideration. lam satisfied that no effort has been spared to show as good a result as possible. Produce or articles sold by asylums realized J344 14s. 6d. (Where asylum reserves are leased, the rentals are not credited to the Lunacy vote.) The average cost of each patient per annum throughout the colony shows a small increase when compared with the figures of the previous year. It will be seen, however, by the annexed tables that this increase is not uniform at all the asylums, some of which show a considerable diminution of the annual expenses. At Dunedin (Seacliff) large expenditure has been inseparable from the removal to a new establishment; and it is to be feared that railway freights upon fuel, provisions, and necessaries, and other expenses dependent on the distance from town of the asylum, will render its working more costly than that of others more favourably situated. The revised scale of attendants' wages, which came into use on the Ist January, 1884, has also in some measure contributed to larger expenditure at all the asylums. The great increase of cost per patient which the Napier Asylum exhibits is more apparent than real, being largely due to the remanded patients, who are not included in the calculation. It is also attributable to the large decrease in the number of lunatics resident; no corresponding diminution of the staff of paid officers being practicable,

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Legislation, etc. The defects in the Lunatics Act of 1882, pointed out in former reports, continue without remedy. Early in the year 1884 I had occasion to point out to the authorities that patients were very frequently committed upon very faulty orders and medical certificates; and the attention of the Magistrates was drawn to the subject by a circular from the Department of Justice. This step was followed by good results; nevertheless, I have felt it my duty to return, during the year, 99 such orders and certificates for rectification of errors or omissions. It is scarcely necessary to observe that a large amount of correspondence and other work is in this way imposed upon the Lunacy Department, which a little more care would render unnecessary. The duty of examining such documents should, I think, rest with the Magistrates who commit upon them. The question of legal liability in such matters is one which will surely at some future time be raised by patients who believe that they have been improperly detained in asylums, and it is not for me to suggest upon whose shoulders such liability will rest. In the Colony of New South Wales, during the year 1883—84, only 6 imperfect certificates were returned by the Inspector-General for amendment.. Deputy Inspectors. To the Deputy Inspectors my best thanks are due for valuable assistance and frequent visits paid to the various asylums during the intervals of my periodical inspections. By the recent death of Mr. Thomas Macffarlane, at Auckland, I feel that I have lost not only an able coadjutor but a valued personal friend, on whom I could always rely in matters of emergency. At Dunedin Mr. J. B. Bradshaigh-Bradshaw, having been elected a member of the House of Representatives, has been succeeded by Mr. W. P. Street. Asylums. Auckland. The number of patients in this institution on the Ist January, 1884, was 291, viz., 196 males and 95 females. During the year 93 were admitted, 57 males and 36 females, 11 of the males and Bof the females being readmissions. The total number treated was 384, 253 males and 131 females. Of these, 18 males and 15 females were discharged as " recovered," 5 males and 2 females as "relieved" or "not improved;" 15 males and 9 females died; leaving, at the end of the year, 215 males and 105 females; total, 320. The recoveries show a percentage of 35 "48 upon the admissions, and the deaths a percentage of 8" 13 npon the average number resident. The auxiliary aslyum was opened in the month of May, 1884. Arrangements for a supply of gas from the Auckland company were completed in the same month, and the use of gasoline discontinued, with great advantage and a material reduction of expenditure. A large annual saving would result from the utilization of the large volume of excellent water which is constantly running to waste into the creek. An exchange should be effected, if possible, between the portion of land now leased from the Education Department and some part of an asylum reserve at a distance. This is an important matter, and should present no difficulty. The asylum was visited by me on the 17th, 21st, and 23rd July, and 4th August, 1884; and again on 20th and 27th February, and 10th March, 1885. I made the following entries in the Inspector's book : — 4th August, 1884.—1 have this day completed my inspection of the Whau Asylum, which was commenced on the 17th July and continued on the 21st and 23rd. Every patient was seen by me, with the exception of four males and two females absent on trial. Four male patients were in bed, but there was no special illness to note. One man only was secluded during my visit: this was G , the murderer, who was placed in his room, as is usual, during meal-times. The patients were suitably clothed, and general cleanliness prevailed. The bedding I found in good order. A considerable addition has been made to the number of wire-woven mattresses, which were procured for the purpose of furnishing the auxiliary asylum. In the wards very little excitement was noticeable, though one or two were very urgent in their demands for release. Since my last visit some repairs have been done to the plastering of the walls and ceilings. These, however, have not been completed, and the dirty condition of walls and ceilings is both discreditable and unwholesome. On this account, and from the paucity of ornamental articles, the wards look bare and unattractive ; in this matter they compare very unfavourably with those of the other colonial asylums. The female wards, intended for workshops, are bare and dismal rooms, not calculated to assist the recovery of those who inhabit them,

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The stone floors of the passage leading to bath-rooms and closets, on the male side of the asylum, are being replaced by concrete, the stone having completely perished. Gas has recently been laid on from the city, and will be found in every way preferable to the gasoline lights lately in use. A considerable economy is promised under this heading. At present the whole of the establishment is warmed by wood fires. Inquiries as to the relative cost and efficiency of coal and wood proved to me that the former is by far the cheaper fuel. I recommend that grates for burning coal be provided in some at least of the forty fireplaces. This might be done gradually. A proper coal-store is also requisite. I am glad to find that the main drain of the asylum is at length being carried to the creek, below high-water mark. The pipes were laid long ago, but as they were carried over a ridge of rock, instead of going through it, the sewage refused to run uphill and discharged itself into the kitchengarden. It is difficult to conceive how such' a piece of work can have been passed by those in authority at the time. Into this drain is discharged the sewage of the auxiliary asylum also. I noticed that the roads and paths of the estate were much out of repair. A considerable quantity of scoria is necessary for putting them into proper order. It might be well to obtain this by tender as required. A good meat-safe has been erected in the yard behind the kitchen. The boilerhouse is under the care of the engineer, who is assisted by a patient. He is much employed in a workshop which is too far off the boiler for supervision. The fencing, post and rail, which forms the front boundary of the estate, is much dilapidated, and allows cows and horses to pass through in many places. It should be put in repair at once, and another attempt made to secure a good hedge, which would ultimately supersede the necessity for a post-and-rail fence. The auxiliary asylum is now in complete occupation, and, though a costly addition, is well adapted for its purpose. Some additional ornamental items, such as billiard- or bagatelle-tables, are wanted here. There are many constructional faults evident. The cemented floor of the scullery has already given way and is in bad condition, and I question the safety of the enclosed lights in the dormitory walls. One of the large day-rooms in this building is used as a chapel in which Divine service is conducted once in each week by a clergyman of the Church of England. This service appears to be much appreciated, and to have a good effect upon those who attend it. The occupation of the auxiliary asylum has had the effect of relieving, to some extent, the crowded state of the male division of the older buildings; but the relief is not complete, nor does it extend in any way to the female side. It will ere long be necessary again to fill the chapel with beds, and to convert a portion of the day-room space of the auxiliary asylum into single rooms. The question of the enlargement is one which should not be deferred. The buildings were originally so badly planned and constructed that any large addition to them will involve great expense. The administrative portion is very defective ; being, moreover, too small, and not capable of extension without much trouble and expense. There are to-day 297 patients resident, 195 males and 102 females; in addition to these there are 4 males and 2 females absent on trial; total, 303. The medical journal shows that seclusion has diminished of late, and, but for two special cases, would be infrequent. lam glad to notice a slight improvement in the number of patients employed. This is, however, not what it ought to be were there proper workshops and work-rooms provided for each sex. The want of these is a great drawback, particularly in wet weather. Some eight or nine men are constantly employed in sawing and cutting firewood. If coal were substituted their labour would be valuable in the garden or on the farm; I have inspected the register and other books, which I find properly entered up. The admissionorders and certificates, and certain letters detained from the post, have also been examined. Although an immense deal requires to be done before this establishment can take rank as a model asylum, yet I am glad to notice that every visit shows some improvement, and I have good reason to believe that Dr. Young gives his best attention to the welfare of his patients under very difficult surroundings.

20th and 27th February, 1885.-—I have devoted some hours on each of the above days to my periodical inspection of the Whau Asylum. There were, on the second day, 320 patients on the register, viz., 215 males and 105 females. All of these I saw, with the exception of three who were absent on probation. Two men wore in bed suffering from paralysis and phthisis; one woman also with general debility. A Maori was in seclusion, being excited and destructive. Very little illness prevailed of any kind, and there has been no recurrence of any infectious fever. There was a remarkable absence of noise and excitement. Some few requested to be released, but none were improperly detained. I found general order to prevail in the wards and in their offices. The bedding and clothing were suitable and very clean. No offensive odours were apparent, excepting in the bath-rooms and closets of No. 2 ward on the female side. These are badly placed and do not give sufficient accommodation. They should be converted into single rooms, and proper closets and lavatories built out from the centre of the ward into the women's airing-court. The same alteration is necessary on the floor above. A wood dado is required in this same No. 2 ward, the walls of which are very unsightly; and No. 1 ward in the same division badly requires painting and whitewashing. A number of small repairs have recently been carried out with good effect. The dining-hall has been much improved in appearance by painting and fitting with a kauri dado. The introduction of gas has removed a source of danger and trouble by the disuse of gasoline. It is not necessary to say much of the female wards and single rooms near the laundry, which have been sufficiently condemned in previous reports. Great delay has taken place in the preparation

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of plans for the enlargement of the asylum and the removal of these portions; and a considerable time must elapse before the work can be commenced, the architect being engaged with other matters which occupy his whole attention. Meanwhile the overcrowding goes on apace, an addition of 17 to the total number having been made since August last. The laundry is in good working order, with the exception of the drying-closet, which has remained useless from the time of its erection. It is badly needed in the wet season, and should be put in working order, though some expense must be incurred in doing it. The kitchen-block requires entire remodelling to fit it for a larger establishment, and will receive due consideration from the architect. The store-rooms adjoining are by no means convenient or commodious ; but they are very untidy, and might certainly be kept in a more orderly manner by the steward. The front office, occupied by this officer as a bedroom, is devoid of shelves and fittings. These . are very necessary for the proper care of the increasing number of books and papers, and should be supplied. The auxiliary asylum is in good order, and some progress has been made in the cultivation of a flower-garden between the wings. I am glad to note considerable improvement in the kitchengarden, which is under the care of a new gardener, and is now well cropped and clean. The past season has not been very favourable for fruit and vegetables. The farm continues to be a source of occupation and profit. There are now 23 head of horned cattle and about 50 pigs. All the milk used in the asylum is produced here, and a certain amount of butter is churned. With the exception of some potatoes, which have to be purchased near the close of the season, all vegetables required are grown at home. The patients are now permitted to go into the surrounding country in walking-parties. Altogether about 60 enjoy this privilege. Weekly entertainments take place, and others are occasionally organized, which are joined in by the outside public. Divine service is regularly performed, as heretofore, in the auxiliary asylum. The records of seclusion are limited to a very few patients, and would be less frequent if the overcrowding could be reduced. Eestraint has been used with two patients only; in both cases for surgical reasons. The number of unemployed is large. I am aware of the difficulties caused by want of proper workshops, but recommend that an effort be made nevertheless to reduce this large proportion, which is much greater than at the other colonial asylums. The books are all properly kept, and the orders of admission and medical certificates in statutory form. A number of patients' letters, which I examined, had been properly detained from the post. I was glad to find that Dr. Young had returned from sick leave with renewed energies. He is supported by a good staff, and, with improved appliances, will render a good account of his work in this asylum. Ashburn Hall {Licensed House). On the Ist January, 1884, this establishment contained 10 male and 5 female patients ; 6 males and 5 females have since been admitted for the first time, and 1 male readmitted. The total number treated during the year was 27; of these, 3 males and 3 females have been discharged as " recovered," and 3 males as " relieved" or " not improved :" 2 males and 1 female died. The numbers remaining on the 31st December were 9 males and 6 females; total, 15. This institution was visited ty me on the 30th November, 1884, and again on the 30th April, 1885. The following were my remarks in the Inspector's book: — Sunday, 30th November, 1884.—1 have paid a visit to-day to Ashburn Hall (licensed house), and was conducted through the whole establishment by Mr. Hume and the Matron. Everything was as usual in the very best order. No alterations have been made since my last visit as regards the buildings, but improvements continue to be made in the grounds surrounding them. There are now 12 male and 6 female patients on the books. These numbers include one male patient absent on probation. At the time of my visit the majority were gone out for a walk, and I was therefore unable to see them. I examined the books and admission papers; the former were properly kept, and the latter in due form. I also made the prescribed statutory inquiries, and obtained satisfactory answers to them. The medical journal indicates that very little illness has required treatment since my last inspection, and that seclusion is rarely resorted to. 30th April, 1885.—There are this day 9 males and 7 females on the register. One of the males is an inebriate, and is at present on leave, and a female insane patient is also absent on probation. With these two exceptions, I have seen them all. Good health is the rule, the only two under medical treatment being sufferers from epileptic fits. To-day being wet, all are indoors, and there is an entire absence of noise and excitement. All are evidently well cared for and made as happy as their mental state will permit. It is scarcely necessary to remark that the whole establishment is maintained in a state of perfect order and cleanliness. The books are all properly kept, and have been examined and signed by me. The medical journal shows that neither seclusion nor restraint in any form has been resorted to, G. W. Gbabham, Inspector of Asylums.

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Christchurch. The number of patients on the Ist January, 1884, was 337, 218 males and 119 females. During the year 26 males and 17 females were admitted for the first time, and 10 males and 9 females readmitted. The total number under care was 399, viz., 254 males and 145 females. Of these there were discharged as "recovered" 10 males and 11 females; 7 males and 4 females were discharged as "relieved" or "not improved;" while 16 males and 3 females died. At the end of the year there remained in the asylum 221 males and 127 females; total, 348. The recoveries amounted to 33"87 per cent of the admissions; the deaths were 555 per cent of the average number resident. The system of land drainage noticed in the last report has been completed, and must be regarded as a great success. Nothing has been done in the matter of diverting the public road, which cuts the asylum grounds into two portions, and is quite close to the new airing-court. This is an important matter, and, but for some personal opposition, might be effected without injury to any one's interests. I visited this asylum on the 12th, 13th, and 15th December, 1884, and again on the 15th, 16th, and 17th April, and 7th May, 1885; making the following reports in the Inspector's book: — On the 12th, 13th, and 15th December, 1884, I made my periodical inspection of the Sunnyside Asylum. Every part of the establishment was visited. The usual statutory inquiries were made, and the orders of admission and medical certificates examined. A number of patients' letters, detained as improper for transmission by post as addressed, were read and ordered to be destroyed. The registers, case-books, and ledgers were all found to be in due form and well kept; these and the patients-book were signed by me. The number of patients in the asylum books lias been as high as 350. It is now precisely the same as on the occasion of my last visit, viz., 345. Of these, 219 are males and 126 females. Included in these figures are three men and two women absent on probation. With these five exceptions I have seen every patient, and opportunity has been given to every one to converse with me, if they desired. The females I saw at their various occupations and in their respective wards. Those of the refractory class were specially retained in their own room, in order that the inadequacy of the accommodation there furnished might be the more forcibly impressed upon my mind. I can only repeat, what I have more than once written, that no delay should occur in enlarging this ward, for which work I believe estimates were long since prepared. On the first day of my visit I saw all the male patients in their own buildings and workshops. Next day they were assembled on parade for my inspection in the grounds of the asylum, and put 'through a simple form of drill. It may appear incredible that every patient of the worst class took part in this parade, and that the most perfect discipline, order, and silence prevailed during my inspection. Not the slightest excitement was noticeable; and I satisfied myself, by visiting them, that the whole of the refractory wards were empty, the doors being left open. The difficulty of accomplishing this thing must have been very great, and must have involved a vast amount of patience and perseverance, for many of the- male patients are of as bad a class as can be found in any asylum. Five patients, of the more intelligent class, refused to join in the drill; the remainder could not be spared from their employment in the kitchen, or were too ill or feeble to attend. I understand—indeed it is very obvious—that this parade-drill is regularly practised. The effect is very beneficial with patients of indolent habits, and it is certainly an indication of the kind and patient treatment received from the attendants, without which it would be impossible of accomplishment. The patients throughout the asylum appear to enjoy good health; four of each sex I saw in bed. These were chiefly suffering from temporary ailments. No person was either in restraint or seclusion, this form of treatment being used in great moderation. It is almost needless to remark that cleanliness, order, and neatness were everwhere apparent. The only complaints made related to detention in the asylum, and these were all inquired into by me. The stores, under Mr. Seager's management, are admirably kept; stocks have been considerably reduced at my suggestion, and evidences that economy is well studied are not wanting. I noticed a number of garden and other tools very cleverly constructed by one of the patients from old pieces of iron. Eegarding employment, I find that about 135 men and 75 women on the average are usefully occupied. Amusements here receive an unusual amount of attention. Entertainments of the most varied kind are given with great and regular frequency, and country walks are taken part in by about 80 patients weekly. lam glad to find that Divine service is now regularly held on each Sunday. The Eev. Mr. Holland is also frequently at the asylum on week-days, and. is well spoken of both by the patients and the staff. The evening-school classes continue to be successfully held. I notice that the visitors to the asylum number about 100 monthly. The kitchen is kept in a very orderly condition; everything is clean and in its right place, the food and its cooking being very satisfactory. The farm-stock to-day consists of 4 cows, 2 calves, 2 steers, and 35 pigs. Since my last visit a fine airing-court for male patients has been constructed and will shortly be in use.

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The subsoil-drainage scheme, lately completed, is so far very successful, and cannot fail to improve the healthiness of the place. The sewage now flows into the public drains to some extent; new water-closets have been provided in various parts, and others completed; but the requirements of the Drainage Board regarding ventilation and connections are so complicated and costly in carrying out that the work is at present at a complete standstill. I cannot help thinking that the Board might approve of some more simple and economical arrangements in this case. In conclusion, I would press upon the Government the urgent necessity for completing this asylum. Plans for the necessary additions were long since prepared and approved, and a sum of money, sufficient for the requirements of the present financial year, appears on the estimates. My visit confirms my good opinion of Dr. Hacon's management and zeal, and I formed a favourable impression of his whole staff.

15th, 16th, and 17th April, 1885.—During a considerable portion of each of these three days I have been engaged in inspecting the Sunnyside Asylum. Two hundred and twenty-one males and 127 female patients are now on the register; total, 348. With the exception of three males and five females absent on probation, I have seen every one of them. The males were assembled " on parade " for the purposes of my inspection, and their conduct was most orderly, evidencing great painstaking on the part of the attendants ; not one patient remained in the refractory wards. Benefit cannot fail to result from this kind of drill, which is repeated at frequent intervals. The women I saw at their meals and at their ordinary avocations. Very little excitement was noticeable, marked improvement having taken place in several who were formerly very noisy and intractable. The overcrowding, which has often been alluded to in previous reports, will be temporarily relieved by the transfer of 25 males and 20 females to the Seacliff Asylum within the present month. Owing to the elaborate requirements of the Drainage Board the work of providing additional water-closets and ventilating-tubes has lately stood in abeyance. The result of this delay is that the male patients are still confined in the old and condemned refractory wards, while urine is actually in places allowed to flow into the foundations of the buildings. Some temporary arrangements should have been devised to prevent this occurrence; but it is to be hoped that no further delay in completing the connections will be allowed to take place. The patients, as a whole, presented a very healthy appearance; 4 men and 2 women were in bed, but some of these had only very temporary ailments. A paralyzed old man, not long since admitted, died this morning (17th). As usual, I found good order to prevail throughout the establishment, and as much contentment as could be expected in a well-managed asylum. Several applications for release were made to me; and, to one of these, after consultation with Dr. Hacon, it was found possible to accede; the other applicants were obviously unfit to be at large. A great deal of useful work is done by the patients, but the proportion of the unemployed is somewhat large. No doubt, the number of useless and troublesome cases is unusually large here; but, with an increased area of land, it may hereafter be found practicable to employ a larger number of men. The new airing-court is a great success, but the patients are by no means confined to its boundaries, a considerable amount of liberty being enjoyed by a large number. The records show that about 50 take part in country walks. The evening classes are attended by about 140 of the patients, and as many as 150 attend Divine service. No one was restrained in any way or secluded on either day of my visit. The records of seclusion are by no means numerous. I found the bedding in good order, and the personal clothing liberal and suitable. The stores are kept with a degree of order and neatness which is remarkable. Strict economy is constantly in view of the Steward, who permits nothing to be lost or wasted. A considerable improvement in the water-supply has resulted from the recent erection of a hydraulic-ram. This is found to raise one gallon per minute. It is worth while to consider whether a second ram should not be provided, as the water-supply is deficient on the male side, and a considerable quantity is necessary for flushing the new drains, as required by the Board. My examination of the register showed it to be neatly and properly kept. I also inspected the admission papers, and a few letters detained from the post. Some special remarks were made in the patients-book. It will be gathered from the above remarks that I continue to hold a favourable opinion of the management of this institution. Hokitika. There were on the Ist January, 1884, 91 patients in this asylum, 64 males and 27 females; 17 males and 7 females were admitted during the year for the first time, and 1 male was readmitted. The total number treated was 116; of these there were discharged as " recovered " 7 males and 2 females, 3 males were discharged as " relieved " or " not improved," and 3 males and 1 female died. The number remaining at the close of the year was 100, 69 males and 31 females. The percentage of recoveries on admissions was 3600 • the death-rate on the average number resident, 416. This asylum was inspected by me on the 18th and 20th December, 1884, when I left the following report in the Inspector's book : —

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19th and 20th December, 1884. —On a portion of each of these two days I have made my halfyearly inspection of the Sea View Asylum. Every part of the establishment has been visited, all the patients seen, the books and registers examined and signed, and the usual inquiries made, as prescribed by statute. There are now exactly 100 insane persons here under treatment; of this number, 69 are males and 31 females. No one is at present absent on probation. I find that no one is under medical treatment, nor is any one secluded or in any way mechanically restrained. Seclusion has been sparingly used since my last visit in April, 1884; five patients altogether have been thus treated. The number usefully employed is 78, viz., r59 men and 19 women : this is a large proportion, and indicates that this important matter here receives considerable attention. During my visit not the least noise or excitement was observable. The men were all drawn up on parade for my inspection, and answered readily to their names. No complaints were made, but I received two requests to be liberated. One of the patients alluded to will shortly be discharged ; the other must be retained for the present. The large recreation-hall is now completed, as also is the adjoining dormitory, which has now been occupied for the past two nights by 23 male patients. A very good, detached store has also been erected. The whole of these additions were made, at trifling cost, from the material of the old Immigration Barracks. They form substantial structures, which will last for a number of years, and are excellent for their varied purposes. As matters now stand, the overcrowding in this asylum is entirely remedied., The greatest credit is due to Mr. Gribben, the Superintendent, for his energy and skill in carrying out this great work without any outside assistance; the whole labour having been accomplished by the patients and their attendants in a most workmanlike manner. Regarding the general condition of this asylum it. is difficult to say anything new where perfect order, comfort, and discipline are invariably to be found. Mr. Gribben is constantly making a number of minor improvements, and, with his wife, devotes his entire energies to the welfare of his asylum. Napier. On the Ist January, 1884, there were in this establishment 29 patients, 18 males and 11 females ; 3 males and 7 females were admitted for the first time during the year, and 1 male was readmitted. The total number under care was 40; 1 male and 2 females were discharged as " recovered," and 10 males and 10 females as " relieved " or " not improved;" 1 female died. The total remaining on the 31st December was 16, 13 males and 3 females. I visited this building on the 16th August, 1884, leaving the following report in the Inspector's book : — 16th August, 1884.—Since my last visit 8 patients, viz., 4 men and 4 women, have been transferred to the asylum at Wellington, in accordance with my recommendation. There are on the books to-day 16 males and 10 females, total 26; of these, there are 2 men on remand and 1 woman absent on leave. All are in good health, suitably clothed, and well cared for. One man, A H , recently discharged, has been again admitted, not having any energy in him to look for employment outside the asylum. It might be well to transfer him with several others to Wellington, if room can be made for them there. I examined every part of the establishment, which I found very clean and in excellent order. The outer doors and windows have been repaired and painted, and some new bedding procured. All the books and papers have been examined and found to be in due form and well kept. The interior of the building requires some renovation. The airing-courts have lately been improved by laying down tar pavement. The gardens are very neatly kept. No doubt can be entertained that the asylum is under good management. Nelson. The patients numbered on the Ist January, 1884, 94; 53 males and 41 females. Twelve males and 5 females were admitted during the year for the first time, and 2 males and 1 female readmitted; the total number treated was 114, 67 males and 47 females. Of these there were discharged as " recovered" 6 males and 7 females, 1 male and 1 female as " relieved "or " not improved," and 5 males died. At the close of the year there remained under care 55 males and 40 females; total, 95. The percentage of recoveries on admissions was 65"00; the death-rate 5"10 of the average number resident. I inspected this asylum on the 29th and 30th December, 1884, and wrote the following report: — 29th December, 1884. —I have this day completed my periodical inspection of the Nelson Asylum. There are to-day 55 male and 39 female patients resident, total 94. A short time ago the number was 99. All these patients I have seen, and conversed with those who desired to do so, Regarding two of them I have made entries in the patients-book. 2—H. 10,

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No one was in restraint or seclusion, and it is noteworthy that the latter form of treatment has only been oneo employed since my last visit. The only form of restraint used has been the use of locked-gloves, in the case of a very troublesome and destructive Maori patient, since deceased. No illness whatever prevails, the only person in bed to-day being an old man suffering from paralysis. All the patients were suitably clothed. I was present during the dinner meal, which was well served, and disposed of in a very orderly manner. All the patients, male and female, with the exception of some six males, dine together in the hall. In the wards, dormitories, and other parts of the establishment I found good order and cleanliness universal. No patient was labouring under excitement, and no complaints made had any material foundation. Some material improvements have been carried out. The drains, which were in very bad and dangerous condition, have been relaid. The labour employed was that of the patients. An additional area of two acres of land has been acquired, and will prove a valuable addition to the limited estate. Every inch of land available is utilized, and excellent crops of vegetables are to be seen. All must be cultivated by spade-labour, no portion of the estate being level enough for the plough. Two cows at present supply all the milk consumed, but there is a difficulty in finding a sufficient area of pasture for them. The produce sold this year from the estate has yielded £68, or £38 more than last year (1883). The internal improvements are, the painting of the dining-hall and re-decoration of the stage. The billiard-room also has been nicely furnished with book-cases, tables, and settees. The latter are particularly good, and were constructed by one of the patients. A very nice library has been procured by means of the proceeds of an entertainment. I find that only 18 of the patients are not employed in some useful manner. The grounds are kept in really beautiful order, and are well worthy of a visit. A new fence is being constructed to replace the old and dilapidated one. Eegarding the overcrowded state of the female portion of the asylum I need only draw attention to my former remarks upon the subject. The laundry ought certainly to be in some other situation than its present one : the steam was pouring into the adjoining dormitories to-day; and the rooms occupied for washing and ironing would provide the much-needed accommodation for female patients. Better store-rooms are wanted : at present articles of a very varied character have necessarily to be kept together in a limited space, and with evil results. Exception was taken by the City Council to my report of November, 1883, in which I animadverted upon the deficient water-supply. I will therefore point out that at 1 o'clock, and again at 3, I tested the water-taps and found them dry. This, I am told, is not an exceptional occurrence. It is not creditable that a contribution of £800 by the Government to the waterworks should give this poor result. All books, papers, registers, &c, I find well kept. Maintenance-money is well collected wherever practicable. Mr. and Mrs. Mills, the Superintendent and Matron, have brought this institution to a state of efficiency which it would be difficult to surpass. They are deserving of the highest praise, and of material encouragement. Dr. Boor attends with great regularity, and is thoroughly conversant with the mental and bodily condition of every patient. Seacliff. The number of patients on the Ist January, 1884, was 350, 230 males and 120 females. During the year 38 males and 26 females were admitted for the first time, and 18 males and 12 females readmitted. The total number treated was 444, viz., 286 males and 158 females. Of these there have been discharged as " recovered "26 males and 22 females, as " relieved " or " not improved " 7 males and 1 female; 20 males and 6 females have died; leaving a total at the end of the year of 362, viz., 233 males and 129 females. The recoveries were 5T06 per cent of the admissions; the death-rate 7-34 per cent of the average number resident. A vast deal requires to be done before this asylum can be considered complete. The airing-courts in use at the back of the building were only intended to be temporary ones, and are completely shut in from all view of the outer world. The formation of permanent courts in front, as originally designed, has not yet been commenced. The water-supply still at times is a cause for grave anxiety. The gasworks, for which the necessary sum has been voted, have not been commenced, but are urgently wanted both for lighting the building and assisting in warming it. I have reason to believe that a much smaller sum will suffice for this work than has been estimated. An Assistant Medical Officer has been appointed as a matter of necessity, the asylum being situated in an outlying district, far away from any medical practitioner who might assist in Dr. Neill's absence. My visits of inspection were paid on the 27th, 28th, and 29th November, 1884, and on Ist, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, sth, and 6th May, 1885. The following entries were made by me in the Inspector's book ; —>

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28th November, 1884.—1 have been employed during the whole of to-day in my periodical inspection of the Seacliff Asylum. The number of patients on the books to-day is 360, viz., 231 males and 129 females: of these, one male and two females are absent on probation; with these three exceptions I have seen every patient, and have given opportunities for private conversation. No single complaint upon any subject was made to me ; contentment was generally prevalent, and there was an entire absence of noise and excitement. One man was in seclusion; he was suffering from an attack of recurrent mania, and is very powerful and dangerous. I saw no other instance of restraint; and examination of the medical journal shows that this form of treatment is sparingly used. Four male patients were in bed, two on account of injuries, and the other from illness. Of the former, one had fractured his collar-bone by falling in an epileptic fit, and the other had accidentally cut his leg with an axe. The rest of the patients had a healthy look. That they are well fed I have no doubt. The dinner which I saw served was good and ample, and I was thoroughly satisfied with the quality of the stores and provisions supplied. The meat appeared to me exceptionally good. Eegarding the clothing I have to remark that I found it appropriate and very clean. The bedding is well attended to, and the number of blankets in use quite sufficient for the present cold nights. I find that the whole of the boots and shoes are made and mended upon the premises; two patients and one attendant being thus occupied. The whole of the establishment is beautifully clean, and good order and discipline everywhere prevail. About per 50 cent, of the patients are usefully employed. Some 72 of the men are more or less engaged in outdoor labour, while 30 assist in domestic-work. Of the women, 28 are employed in the laundry, 14 in the kitchen and sculleries, 20 in sewing, and about 20 as ward-helpers. Various means of amusement are furnished in the different wards, but collective entertainments in the large hall have not yet been found practicable for want of proper means of lighting it and for other reasons. Two excellent billiard-tables are in use and greatly appreciated. A pianoforte and a small American organ are also available for use. Walking-parties are organized on two days in each week. Divine service is held by a missionary from Dunedin on alternate Sundays, about 50 of the patients attending voluntarily. As to the results of the labour of the inmates and their attendants I can report very satisfactorily. There are now about 35 acres of good grazing land and 14 acres of clover hay, 10 acres are planted with potatoes and an additional 4 acres of kitchen-garden have been cleared and well stocked with vegetables, flowers, and fruit trees, a number of the latter of large size having been most successfully removed from the old asylum at Dunedin. The condition of this and the other gardens is most creditable. The whole of the above-named acreage has been reclaimed from dense bush, and thoroughly cleared of all stumps and weeds—a work of no small labour. The total clearing is now about 150 acres. The farm live-stock now comprises 13 milch cows, of which 10 are in milk, 11 heifers in calf, ' 2 calves, 1 bull, and about 32 pigs. There are also 3 farm-horses, and some 50 head of poultry. A very large amount of well-cured bacon and hams is in stock. Since my last visit a large number of important improvements have been carried out. A commodious laundry has just been completed, and will no doubt be a success. It is unfortunate, however, that a larger steam-boiler and furnace was not provided, which would have been capable of heating all the coppers, for which four separate fires are now necessary. This arrangement was particularly specified in the plan prepared by myself, and sanctioned by the Colonial Secretary. lam unaware by whose authority the alteration was made. There are bad workmanship and unsuitable timber in the horses of the drying-closets. A very commodious meat-larder has been built behind the kitchen. The money expended here on architectural details would have been better employed elsewhere. Three cottages for married attendants have been erected by the Public Works Department; and a fourth and much larger one is now being built by home labour with old materials brought from Dunedin. By the same means a row of useful buildings has been put up in the rear of the asylum. This now includes carpenters' shop, strawhouse, coalhouse, shoemaker's shop, and a paint-shed. There is also an enginehouse, a saw-mill, and a chaffhouse. A very considerable sum of money has been saved to the Government in this way, for all these buildings were necessary and not otherwise provided for. A small airing-court has also been enclosed, with a trellis-fronted fence, in front of the building without any cost to the Government. Eegarding the main block of buildings or asylum proper, I have many defects to point out. Some of these were alluded to in my report of the 15th April last, but are not yet remedied. The dampness or rather wet condition of the two central portions of the ground-floor call for immediate remedy. A portion of the floor taken up for my inspection in an attendant's room revealed a body of water some four inches in depth, and reaching above the bottom of the joists. A general odour of mouldiness pervades these two blocks of the building. The effect of the wet upon the woodwork will be prejudicial enough, but the danger to the health of the inhabitants is far more serious. Indeed the medical journal furnishes an unusual list of cases of chest-affection and rheumatism which may fairly be traced to this cause. Surely this is a matter worthy of consideration and not beyond remedy. In the large entertainment-hall a leakage through the roof, previously pointed out, is still permitted to deface the walls. The woodwork and fittings of windows and doors throughout the establishment continue to show additional evidence of bad material and worse workmanship. Locks, bolts, and hinges are of trumpery character and unsafe, while the beads intended to secure window frames and shutters can be pulled off with the fingers. Door-frames of single rooms are only held to the brickwork by a

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wooden wedge or two ; and during my visit a window-frame in one of the turrets was observed to be rocking to and fro with a slight breeze, never having been properly built in. I was sorry to notice that movement of the soil is still progressing beneath the female wing, as evidenced by cracked walls, falling plaster, and broken concrete pavement. This movement is evidently promoted by soakage of water from high ground at the rear of the building. It is highly desirable to provide against this soakage by laying down tar pavement in the airing-courts for a width of at least 12 feet from the walls, and by providing proper drainage to carry away the rainfall from them. The water-supply so far has been ample, but the water is so hard as to render its use objectionable for laundry and kitchen purposes. An analysis should be made with a view to remedying this and other objectionable properties of the water. Meanwhile additional tanks are being placed to collect rain-water. The store-rooms and offices are good, and conveniently situated, but the fittings as left by the contractor were of the roughest. Much time has been spent in reconstructing shelves, bins, and other articles which had become quite unserviceable through warping and shrinkage. Dr. Neill pointed out to me the necessity for some more single rooms in which patients could be accommodated with security. He proposes to construct four for each sex in the airing-courts, in a position indicated to me. I quite approve of the plan. The additions will be executed by his own staff, and with old materials. Eegarding the general management I have nothing to add to my former reports, and I continue to repose great confidence in Dr. Neill's ability and zeal. The appointment of an Assistant Medical Officer should be made forthwith. All books and papers I find properly kept.

2nd, 3rd, 4th, and sth May, 1885.—A considerable portion of each of the above-mentioned days has been devoted to a thorough inspection of the Seacliff Asylum, in accordance with the provisions of the statute. All the books and registers in use have been examined and signed. These are, without any exception, very neatly kept, and furnish very valuable information both as regards the patients and also the economical working of the establishment. All orders of admission and medical certificates have likewise been submitted to me for inspection, together with a few letters written by patients and detained from the post. I have made the various inquiries enjoined by the Lunatics Act, and obtained satisfactory replies thereto. There are now on the books 205 males and 132 females; total, 426. These numbers include two males and one female absent on probation; and, with these exceptions, I have seen them all. Of the male population, an accession of 55 took place on Tuesday evening last. These had been brought down from Wellington and Christchurch by Dr. Neill, in order to remedy overcrowding in the asylums there situate. Dr. Neill also took charge of a party of 16 lunatics transferred from Napier to Wellington, and carried out these difficult operations, involving much tact and forethought, in the most admirable manner. Not a hitch of any kind occurred; and the patients whom I have seen here seem rather to have enjoyed the journey than to have been irritated and excited by it. As soon as arrangements can be completed for the reception, Dr. Neill will also remove 25 female patients hither from the Sunnyside Asylum. Of the total number under treatment, 105 men and 5 men are lodged in the wooden buildings. These were intended for temporary use only during the construction of the permanent asylum; but, I regret to say, that more real comfort is to be found here than in the palatial-looking but cold and ill-planned structure below. During my prolonged visited I found 4 men and 3 women confined to bed; some for temporary ailments only. The rest of the patients look robust and well fed, as they doubtless are, judging from the meals which I saw supplied to them. Two women were placed in seclusion for short periods on account of maniacal excitement and acts of destruction. No person was in any way mechanically restrained. Wet weather on the first day of my visit interfered greatly with outdoor employments, but some little improvement in this respect has since taken place. I find that there are only 80 males and 32 females who are not in some way usefully occupied. The patients are suitably clothed, and the bedding is beautifully clean. A large stock of blankets will be required during the winter season, as the building is very cold and damp. A few patients appealed to me for their release. One of these will shortly be discharged, but the others are unfit to be at large. I have examined the various stores and supplies with satisfactory result; all are good of their kind. Eegarding the home-grown vegetables it is impossible to speak too highly ; they are grown in abundance and in great variety. All live-stock kept is of a high class, and very carefully tended. No extension of the main buildings has been made since my last report, with the exception of a range of ten good single rooms, with an adjoining corridor about 7ft. wide. This addition was made entirely .by home labour, and with old material brought from Dunedin, having formed a portion of the old asylum there. These rooms are intended for the accommodation of the Sunnyside patients, and are well and substantially constructed. Their average cost was £5 6s. for each room ; this amount being expended in new material, which was necessary to complete them. A similar addition is contemplated on the male side of the asylum. I have again to draw attention to the structural defects mentioned in my former reports. Movement continues to take place in the foundations of the female wing, in which a rent exists from roof to basement. Plaster is constantly falling, and alarming noises are at times heard in the

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timbers of the roof. Some exploratory sinkings are being made, with the view of ascertaining the cause of the subsidence, and of devising a remedy for it if possible. The wet condition of the basement remains without alleviation, and will assuredly lead to the rapid decay of the floor-joists. I have grave doubts whether it is proper to occupy these rooms in their present state, which is dangerous to the health of both patients and attendants. The leakage through the roof of the large hall shows greatly extended damage upon each of my successive visits, and ought to receive immediate attention. The hot-water tanks, lined with, lead, are frequently under repair, and will eventually become unserviceable, after causing much mischief to ceilings. Some of the bath-room ceilings are being destroyed by leakage from valves and waste-pipes; the former unprovided with safes, and the latter having joints made of putty instead of solder. A great deal of painting was either executed with bad material or upon damp surfaces, and is becoming very unsightly. The laundry is by no means a success, the bulk of the money set apart for its construction having been spent upon architectural effects. A larger steam boiler here is a matter of necessity, the present one being a mere toy—extravagant of fuel, but incapable of supplying sufficient steam for the drying-chamber. The large increase in the number of patients taxes the present arrangements beyond their capacity. A proper stove for heating a number of irons must also be supplied, as well as a mangle and a wringing-machine. The roads and paths about the asylum are in a very bad state of muddiness; a great deal of road-metal is necessary for their formation and repair. The airing-courts also are so wet, for want of proper drains, that the patients are kept within doors, much to their detriment. The two large halls are perfectly useless, having no seats or tables, and being without any means of lighting them. Furniture ought to be supplied without further delay, and gasworks established. The whole of the asylum is at present wretchedly lighted by kerosene lamps, which require the entire services of a man to trim and attend to. They are also an element of considerable danger. Lighting by gas would materially assist in warming the building, which is wretchedly cold now, and must be still more so in winter; while the whole of the residual products of manufacture would find a ready use in the establishment. Viewed only as a matter of economy the provision of a proper gas-making plant is highly desirable. A hot-water supply must in some way be provided for the upper buildings. Dr. Neill can probably supply this deficiency at a small outlay. Since my last visit of inspection an assistant medical officer has been appointed, and the choice appears to have fallen upon a good man, Dr. Nelson, who is making himself thoroughly acqiiainted with all the working details of the asylum. Under many difficulties Dr. Neill is gradually bringing the asylum into excellent order. He is indefatigable in his efforts, and possessed of great administrative ability. He certainly is successful in attracting the services of good officers, both male and female ; and also of retaining them in his service by kind and considerate treatment, although combined with a firm discipline. Wellington. On the Ist January, 1884, there were here 170 patients, 103 males and 67 femalesDuring the year 42 males and 25 females were admitted for the first time ; 4 males and 3 females were readmitted. The total number under treatment was 244, 149 males and 95 females. Eighteen males and 16 females were discharged as "recovered," 1 male and 3 females as "relieved" or "not improved;" 7 males and 3 females died. The numbers remaining on the .31 st December were 123 males and 73 females; total, 196. The proportion of recoveries to admissions was 45"94 per cent. The death-rate was 540 per cent, calculated upon the average number resident. A large number of improvements, external and internal, have been carried out at this asylum during the past year, but no additional accommodation has been provided, and the establishment has fully as many patients as it can conveniently house. My visits were paid on the following dates : 6th, 13th, and 26th June, 29th August, 2nd 4th, Bth, and 22nd September, 7th October, 4th and sth November, 1884; 2nd, 3rd, sth, and 7th February, 17th March, 9th April, and 10th June, 1885. My entries in the Inspector's book follow : — 7th February, 1885. —I have to-day concluded my inspection of the Wellington Asylum, which has occupied my attention on the 2nd, 3rd, sth, and 7th February. There are this day 197 patients on the register, viz., 121 males and 76 females; an increase of 12 since my last report. The male division is overcrowded, and an endeavour will be shortly made to arrange for the transfer of some patients of this sex to the Seacliff Asylum. I have seen and conversed with all those who desired to speak to me. No complaints, which had any substantial foundation, were made. All were suitably dressed and very clean. A few were wearing dresses of strong material on account of destructive propensities; but, with one exception, that of a well-known patient, no one was in any way restrained mechanically, nor was any person in seclusion. The latter form of treatment has been resorted to very sparingly, and only with a few patients of very violent character. I found three of the males and three females in bed. These were labouring under excitement, or were feeble from epilepsy or old age. No illness appears to prevail, and the number under medical treatment is very small.

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The staff of attendants gave me a good impression, and I have reason to believe that their duties are discharged with firmness and much kindness. Very great improvements have recently been carried out in the asylum buildings. The kitchen, with its scullery, pantry, larder, and dairy, has been entirely re-modelled and much enlarged. All the needed accommodation and conveniences are now to be found in this department. Two gas roasting-ovens have been provided, which, when completed, will prove a success, and will enable the old monotony of the dietary to be entirely removed. The old kitchen-range is also in course of entire renovation. The new laundry is in daily use. The steam-drying closet works successfully, but requires some unimportant additions to complete it. These will be carrred out before the next winter season. The new boilerhouse has been some time in use, and, with its adjoining workshop, is found very convenient and economical in working. The old back wards have been converted by the asylum staff, with the aid of a carpenter, into very good store-rooms. These are occupied respectively as follows : Drapery, boots, &c.; groceries and crockery; soap, potatoes, &c.; strawhouse. The remaining portion of this building forms a suitable laundry, or rather washhouse, for foul linen; and the necessary alterations in it are being carried out by one of the patients in a very creditable manner. Six of the old single rooms on the male side have had large windows with shutters inserted in them, and have been painted and distempered by home labour. They are now very good and cheerful sleeping apartments. The dining-hall, used also for amusements, has been improved by the removal of the stage and the erection of a small gallery for musicians. This room has a heavy and gloomy appearance, which would be remedied by painting the walls in some light and cheerful tint. I recommmend that this be done. The front rooms of the asylum have lately been repaired and decorated. In place of the old torn paper and scrim, a wooden super-dado has been fixed. This will obviate future destruction by patients, and lessen risk by fire. A good deal of staining and varnishing has also been done where much needed. The general effect is very good, though some of the work is decidedly bad and very unserviceable. Outside the buildings a great improvement has been carried out in the conversion of the two spaces near the wings into airing-courts, or rather enclosed gardens, for the use of the patients. These are found so valuable that it is a wonder how they could have been done without hitherto. They are very neatly kept, and practically no destruction of flowers or plants has yet occurred. Considerable additions, amounting to about two acres, have been made to the land under cultivation. There are large crops of vegetables and farm-produce. Pigs and cows are very successfully kept, and it will probably be unnecessary in the future to purchase any milk for use in the asylum. I find that 82 of the male patients and 56 of the females are usefully employed, total 138. This is a very large and satisfactory proportion of the whole number. Divine service is attended by 77 men and 47 women; while as many as 91 are permitted to go for walks beyond the asylum boundaries. Amusements generally continue to receive a large share of attention. I have examined the whole of the registers and account-books, which I find very well and neatly kept. The orders and medical certificates relating to the admission of patients I find to be in legal form. In addition to what is mentioned above, a vast number of minor improvements have recently been made. The welfare of the patients and the economical working of the establishment are constantly held in view by Dr. Levinge, who has proved himself a very able and efficient Medical Superintendent. That he is supported by a good staff, the admirable order in which I found the whole asylum will suffice to show. Scrupulous cleanliness and freedom from any bad odour everywhere prevail. The wards and dormitories present an appearance of homeliness and comfort, being well provided with objects of amusement and of decoration.

10th June, 1885. —I have this day made a complete inspection of the Wellington Asylum, with its surroundings. Every portion of the buildings has been examined, and the grounds also visited. The patients number this day 185, viz., 103 males and 82 males; all of whom I have seen, giving all who desired it an opportunity for conversation. Eour patients were in bed; one suffering from mental excitement, the others from illness or general debility. With these exceptions, general good health appeared to be the rule. No person was in seclusion, and no form of restraint was in use except in one instance, and here it was selfimposed. The patient has uncontrollable impulses, and injures his face by severe blows. His hands are therefore secured, by his own wish (as he has repeatedly told me); and I noticed that he could release himself with ease if he so desired. Perfect order and quiet prevailed, although a man, recently brought down from Napier, was as usual very excited under the influence of religious delusions. I was present during the dinner-hour; the tables were neatly laid, everything being very clean. Almost every one used a knife and fork, Maoris included. A well-known patient (often alluded to in former reports as exceedingly violent and dangerous, and requiring to be strapped in a heavy chair) has, by most praiseworthy perseverance, been got out of his old groove, and is now usefully employed at times in window-cleaning. I must own that I was surprised to come upon him unexpectedly, neatly dressed, and using knife and fork without any restraint whatever. A long term of restraint and frequent seclusion had brought him almost to the condition of a wild beast, and it appeared very unlikely that he would ever become more tractable.

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The dinner consisted of haricot mutton, with abundance of various vegetables, broth, and bread. I took the opportunity of tasting the broth, which I found to be excellent. Dr. Levinge has recently introduced a new dietary scale, which gives considerable variety on the several days of each week. It is also of a liberal character, such as would surprise the inmates of an English asylum, and appears to give general satisfaction, as I heard no complaints whatever. With the improved cooking arrangements, the increased area of garden in cultivation, and the careful personal supervision, now given, it is improbable that any increase of expenditure will result, but rather the reverse. I examined the other provisions and groceries in stock, and found all satisfactory. The bread is much improved in quality under a new contract. All the milk required is now produced on the estate, and the allowance to each person is ample. All the patients were neatly and suitably clothed. I learn that the whole of the underclothing is now made on the premises ; and not only is a considerable saving shown upon the former contract prices, but the articles are better made and are of better material than formerly: they consequently wear much longer. All the socks worn by patients are also hand-knitted in the asylum. The bedding is well looked after and scrupulously clean. Bach bed has three top blankets and one beneath. The proportion of patients employed is satisfactory. A large amount of useful work has been done about the premises by home-labour. A rocky hill is in course of demolition, the debris being used for levelling a large space of ground behind the asylum, which will thus become valuable either for building upon or planting; roads and paths have been formed and metalled ; a new airing-court will shortly be completed; a large building has been erected to serve for a coal-shed, wood-shed, and toolhouse; other old and condemned buildings removed; new fences erected, and gates provided for the hospital road; pigstyes removed to a better position; and a large amount of treeplanting. The laundry for foul linen has also been completed. The whole of these works have been executed by home-labour. A new ironing-stove is now being placed in the laundry, where it is intended shortly to undertake the whole of the washing from the hospital, as an experiment. If successful, a considerable saving to the Government will result. Inside the asylum many improvements have been effected. The front day-rooms on the female side have been varnished and papered, and their windows furnished with valances and lace curtains. The latter have been in use six months, and not one of them has been torn. A large new dining-room has been formed in the female division, by exchanging the fittings of a dormitory and a day-room. The new room is conveniently situated, and very easily supervised during meals. Other alterations and repairs are needed. The back corridor, in the same division, requires painting; some rooms on the male side want varnishing, and lining with wood for a certain height; the dining-hall should be painted in some light shade of colour, which would remove its present gloomy appearance. Other repairs, badly needed, are already sanctioned. There are at present only two or three vacant beds on the male side, while the female division is quite full. In view of the natural increase of lunacy with an increasing population, I recommend the immediate erection of a large day-room for female patients; which, with a few alterations of small importance in the existing buildings, would enable the Superintendent to admit twenty additional women. There would be no difficulty in finding them suitable employment; they could be cheaply maintained here ; and the addition to the asylum would not be a costly one. An excellent position could be found for it, with a good view from its windows, on or near the ground which is undergoing levelling behind the asylum. I have examined all the statutory books and documents; they are well kept, the case-book particularly so. All the patients under certificates are properly detained here; but I can scarcely say the same of two women sent " on remand," and regarding whom I have made certain entries in the patientsbook. For his zeal in his work, and the numerous radical improvements which he has carried out, Dr. Levinge deserves my warmest approbation. I formed also a very good opinion during my visit of his staff of officers and attendants.

It will thus be seen that the total number of my visits to the asylums of the colony since my last report is 48. I have, Bee, George Wallington Grabham, M.D. Land.., M.R.C.P., M.R.C.S., The Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Inspector of Asylums,

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APPENDIX.

Table I.—Showing the Admissions, Readmissions, Discharges, and Deaths in Asylums during the Year 1884.

Table II.—Admissions, Discharges, and Deaths, with the Mean Annual Mortality and Proportion of Recoveries, &c., per Cent. on the Admissions, &c., during Year 1884.

II. p. T. M. 892 F. T. 483 1,375 !n asylums 1st January, 1884 Admitted for the first time Readmitted 190 48 120 33 310 81 } 238 153 391 Total under care during the year Discharged and removed — Eeoovered Relieved Not improved.. .. .. Died.. 89 17 18 68 77 9 12 24 166 26 30 92 1,130 636 1,766 192 122 314 Remaining in asylums 31st December, 1884 .. 938 514 1,452 increase over 31st December, 1883 .. •i 46 31 77 Average number resident during the year 911 497 1,408

Admissions in 1884. Total Number of Patients under Care. Asylums. In Asylums on 1st January, 1884. Admitted for the First Time. Readmitted. Total. aickland Ihristcliurch )uncdin. lokitika fapier lelson Vellington ishbum Hall (private asylum) M. P. 196 95 218 119 230 120 64 27 18 8 53 42 103 67 10 5 T. 291 337 350 91 26 95 170 15 M. 46 26 38 17 3 12 42 6 p. 28 17 26 7 7 5 25 5 T. 74 43 64 24 10 17 67 11 M. 11 10 18 1 1 2 i 1 p. 8 9 12 0 0 1 3 0 T. 19 19 30 1 1 3 7 1 M. 57 30 56 18 4 14 46 7 p. 36 26 38 7 7 6 28 5 T. 93 62 94 25 11 20 74 12 M. F. 253 131 254 145 286 158 82 34 22 15 67 48 149 95 17 10 T. 384 399 444 116 37 115 244 27 Totals 892 483 1,375* 190 120 310 48 33 81 238 153 391 1,130 636 1,766 Table II.— continued. Patients discharged and died. In Asylums on 31st December, 1884. Asylums. Discharged not recovered. Total discharged and died. Discharged recovered. Died. oickland .. 'hristohurch ) unedin lokitika Japier Telson Vellington .. Lshburn Hall (private asylum) M. 18 10 26 7 1 6 18 3 p. 15 11 22 2 1 7 10 3 T. 33 21 48 9 2 13 34 6 M. 5 7 7 3 8 1 1 3 p. 2 4 1 0 10 1 3 0 T. 7 11 8 3 18 2 4 3 M. 15 16 20 3 0 5 7 2 p. 9 3 6 1 1 0 3 1 T. 24 19 26 4 1 5 10 3 M. 38 33 53 13 9 12 26 8 F. 26 18 29 3 12 8 22 4 T. 64 51 82 16 21 20 48 12 M. P. 215 105 221 127 233 129 69 31 13 3 55 40 123 73 9 6 T. 320 348 362 100 16 95 196 15 Totals 89 77 166 35 21 56 68 24 92 192 122 314 938 514 1,452 Table II. — continued. Asylums. Average Number rosident during the Year. Percentage of Recoveries on Admissions during the Year. Percentage of Vaycp-ntanp nf during the Yoar. unaer oarePercentage of Deaths on Admissions. aickland .. Jhristchurch )unedin lokitika fapier f elson Vellington .. Lshburn Hall (private asylum) at. p. t. 198 97 295 220 122 342 230 124 354 68 28 96 15 8 23 56 42 98 114 71 185 M. P. T. 31-57 41-66 35-48 27-27 42-30 33-87 46-42 57-89 *51-06 38-38 28-56 36-00 25-00 14-28 18-18 42-85 11-66 65-00 39-13 57-U 45-94 M. P. T. 7-57 9-27 7-50 7-27 2-45 5-55 8-69 4-83 7-34 4-41 3-57 4-16 0-00 1-25 4-34 8-92 0-00 5-10 6-14 4-52 5'40 SI. F. T. 5-92 6-87 G-25 6-29 2-06 4-76 6-99 3-79 5-85 3-65 2-94 3-44 0-00 6-66 2-70 7-46 0-00 4-34 4-69 3-15 4-09 1-17 l'OO I'll M. F. T. 2-63 2-50 2-58 4-44 1-15 3-06 3-57 1-57 2-76 1-66 1-42 1-60 0-00 1-42 9-09 3-57 0-00 2-50 1-52 1-07 1-35 10 5 15 42-85 60-00 50-00 2-00 2-00 2-02 2'85 2-00 2-50 Totals 911 497 1408 37-39 50-32 42-45 7-46 4-82 6-53 6-01 3-77 5-20 2-85 1-56 2-35

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Table III.—Ages of the Admissions.

Table IV.—Duration of Disorder.

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Ages. Auckland. Christchurch. Dunedin. Hokitika. Napior. Nelson. Wellington. Ashburn Hall (Private Asylum). Total. Inder 5 years 'rom 5 to 10 years „ 10 „ 15 ,, „ 15 „ 20 „ „ 20 „ 30 „ „ 30 „ 40 „ „ 40 „ 50 „ „ 50 „ 60 ,, „ 60 „ 70 „ „ 70 ,, 80 „ >i 80 „ 90 ,, Unknown M. P. T. 0 11 Oil M. P. T. M. F. T. 10 1 M. P. IM. P. T. M. P. T. M. P. T. 10 1 M. F. T. M. F. T. Oil 2 13 4 2 6 11 13 24 16 7 23 11 5 16 8 5 13 3 14 3 0 3 4 0 4 8 7 15 10 9 19 5 4 9 8 4 12 112: Oil 0 6 6 14 8 22 20 14 34 15 5 20 4 3 7 12 3 10 1 0 2 2 12 3 5 3 8 5 0 5 4 0 4 2 0 2 Oil 2 2 4 0 2 2 112 112 2 0 2 12 3 4 15 4 2 6 2 13 12 3 10 13 23 14 4 18 4 5 9 6 2 8 10 1 3 0-3 2 13 2 13 Oil! 12 3 10 1 11 13 24 49 48 97 71 41 112 45 23 68 34 18 52 9 4 13 8 19 10 1 8 3 11 10 1 10 1 1 "o 1 1 "l 2 6 "2 8 Totals 57 36 93 14 6 20 36 26 62 56 38 94 18 7 25 4 7 11 46 28 74 7 5 12" 238 153 39.

Auckland. Christchurch. Dunedin. Hokitika. Napier. Nelson. Wellington. Ashburn Hall (Private Asylum). Total. First Class (first attack M. F. 1. M. F. T. M. F. T. and within 3 months on admission) .. 23 20 43 16 7 23 30 16 46 Second Class (first attack above 3 months and within 12 months on admission) .. 82 10 48 12 235 Third Class (not first attack, and within 12 months on admission) .. .. 10 3 13 8 7 15 21 16 37 Fourth. Class (first attack or not, but of more than 12 months on admission) .. 16 11 27 4 2 0 3 3 6 Unknown .. .. .. 4 2 6 M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. p. T. M. F. T. 23 20 43 16 7 23 30 16 46 11 2 13 2 5 7 4 2 6 13 4 17 2 2 4 101 58 151 8 2 10 4 8 12 2 3 5 2 13 2 0 2 8 3 11 2 13 2 13 30 19 41 10 3 13 8 7 15 21 16 37 10 1 0 2 2 10 1 10 6 16 2 13 53 35 86 16 11 27 4 2 0 4 2 6 3 3 6 3 4 7 10 1 112 3 3 6 18 14 32 112 31 25 86 23 16 3£ Totals .. 57 36 93 36 26 62 56 38 94 36 26 62 56 38 94 18 7 25 4 7 11 14 6 20 46 28 74 7 5 12 238 153 391 Table V. —Ages of Patients Dischaeged, " iECOYEEBD " and " Not eecoveeed," during 1884. Auckland. Christchurch. Dunedin. Hokitika. Total. Ages. Eecovered j r0 ™ ied Eecovered rec^ed Eecovered| reo N° e t rea Becovered Ie « rea Eecovered rec *°£ea M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. Oil II. F. T. St. F. T. M. P. T. M. ». T. M. P. T. M. F. T. 0 11 Prom 5 to 10 „ 10 „ 15 „ 15 „ 20 „ 20 „ 30 „ 30 „ 40 „ 40 „ 50 „ 50 „ 60 „ 60 „ 70 „ 70 „ 80 „ 80 „ 90 Unknown 7 4 11 0 8 14 2 2 4 2 13 0 11 0 11 10 1 3 0 3 10 1 2 13 3 4 7 2 3 5 3 3 6 2 0 2 3 14 12 3 10 1 0 2 2 9 6 15 7 5 12 8 7 15 2 13 0 11 2 0 2 3 14 10 1 10 1 Oil 2 0 2 2 0 2 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 10 1 7 7 14 19 15 34 14 11 25 14 11 25 5 4 9 0 11 2 13 4 2 6 5 2 7 8 19 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 112 2 13 Totals .. 18 15 33 5 2 7 10 11 21 7 4 11 26 22 48 7 18 7 2 9 3 0 3 61 50 111 22 7 29 Table V. — continued. Nai )ier. Nell ion. Wellington. Ashbi (Privati trn Hall i Asylum). Total. Grand Total. Ages. Eecovered Not recovered Eecovered Not recovered Eecoverod Not rocovered Eecoverod Not recovered Recovered Not recovered Becoverod Not recoverod M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. P. T. M. P. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. m. p. t. M. P. T. M. P. T. M. P. T. Oil 'rorn 5 to 10 ... „ 10 „ 15 ... , 15 „ 20 ... „ 20 „ 30 ... „ 30 „ 40 ... „ 40 „ 50 ... „ 50 „ 60 ... „ 60 „ 70 ... „ 70 „ 80 ... 80 „ 90 ... rnknown 1 "l 2 0 3 3 2 5 7 12 3 10 1 2 0 2 10 1 0 11 112 3 3 6 12 3 0 T 1 10 1 112 6 6 12 7 4 11 3 3 6 0 1 1 1 2 3 2 1 3 112 Oil 2 "6 2 10 1 2 13 9 9 18 9 6 15 6 7 13 12 3 Oil 0 4 4 5 6 11 2 2 4 12 3 3 2 5 9 8 17 28 24 52 23 17 40 20 18 38 6 6 12 0 2 2 2 5 7 9 8 17 7 4 11 9 1 10 5 2 7 10 1 0 11 2 0 2 1 1 2 1 "i 2 3 2 5 2 6 2 Totals 112 8 10 18 6 7 13 112 18 16 34 13 4 3 3 6 3 0 3 28 28 56 11 16 27 89 77 166 35 21 56

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Table VI.—Ages of the Patients who died.

Table VII.—Condition as to Marriage.

Ages. Auckland. c^frch Dunedin. Hokitika. Napier. Nelson. Wellington. Ashburn Hall (Private Asylum). Total. From 5 to 10 years „ 10 „ 15 „ „ 15 „ 20 „ „ 20 „ 30 „ „ 30 „ 40 „ „ 40 „ 50 „ „ 50 „ CO „ „ 00 „ 70 „ ' „ 70 „ 80 „ „ 80 „ 90 „ Unknown II. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. P. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. 0 2 2 112 0 2 2 10 1 5 16 2 2 4 4 0 4 2 0 2 10 1 6 17 2 0 2 4 15 10 1 Oil 0 2 2 10 1 3 3 6 1 0 1 112 3 0 3 10 1 10 1 0 2 2 3 3 0 2 2 4 11 4 15 12 3 15 16 5 21 15 1 16 4 2 6 3 14 2 13 6 0 0 5 0 5 3 0 3 2 13 112 2 13 4 15 1 1 2 1 '6 1 1 1 2 1 0 1 0 11 10 1 Total 3 14 O11J5O5|73 1O 68 24 92 15 9 24 3.6 3 19 20 6 26 2 13

Admissions. Discharges. Deaths. Auckland — Single Married Widowed ,. .. .. Unknown M. F. T. 36 13 49 15 19 34 4 4 8 2 0 2 M. F. T. 15 G 21 8 9 17 0 2 2 M. F. T. 10 4 14 4 3 7 12 3 Totals 57 36 93 23 17 40 15 9 24 Cheistchurch— Siiigle Married Widowed 22 6 28 10 17 27 4 3 7 12 2 14 4 12 16 112 11 5 0 1 12 1 6 1 1 Totals 36 26 62 17 15 32 16 3 19 Dunedin— Single Married Widowed 35 17 52 19 18 37 2 3 5 20 7 27 11 13 24 2 3 5 8 2 10 10 2 12 2 2 4 Totals 56 38 94 33 23 56 20 6 26 ' HoKITJKA— Single Married .. .. Widowed 12 3 15 2 4 6 4 0 4 9 1 10 112 2 0 2 112 Totals 18 7 25 10 2 12 3 1 4 Napieb— Single .. .. .. ... Married Widowed .. ... 3 4 7 13 4 8 1 6 14 6 7 0 1 1 Totals .. ... 4 7 11 9 12 21 Oil Nelson— Single .. .. Married .. .. Widowed .. 8 5 1 3 11 3 8 0 1 5 3 8 2 5 7 2 0 2 2 0 2 10 1 Totals 14 6 20 7 8 15" 5 0 5 Wellington— Single Married Widowed Unknown 33 11 44 10 16 26 3 14 13 3 16 5 15 20 112 3 4 0 0 0 1 1 1 3 5 1 1 Totals 46 28 74 19 19 38 7 3 10 Ashbuen Hall (Private Asylum)— Single .. Married Widowed 6 1 0 5 6 6 6 0 0 3 6 3 2 0 0 2 1 1 Totals 7 5 12 6 3 9 2 13 Totals— Single Married Widowed Unknown 155 57 212 65 85 150 18 11 29 2 0 2 88 28 116 3a 64 96 4 7 11 38 7 45 26 10 36 4 7 11 Totals 240 153 393 124 99 223 68 24 92

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Table VIII. —Native Countries.

Table IX.—Ages of Patients at 31st December, 1884.

Table X. —Length of Residence of Patients who died during 1884.

Total. Countries. Auckland. Christchurch Dunedin. Hokitika. Napier. Nelson. Wellington. Ashburn Hall {Private Asylum). M. F. 321 178 159 98 251 168 61 33 14 4 9 2 25 4 3 1 18 3 13 6 11 0 18 0 11 4 7 5 17 8 T. 499 257 419 94 18 11 29 4 21 19 11 18 15 12 25 England .. Scotland .. Ireland New Zealand Australia .. Franco Germany .. Norway Sweden Denmark .. Italy China Maoris American .. Other countries M. F. T. 86 47 133 23 10 33 49 34 83 26 6 32 10 1 3 0 3 3 14 M. F. T. 82 57 139 26 19 45 73 37 110 14 3 17 4 0 4 2 0 2 7 18 112 10 1 2 0 2 10 1 M. F. T. 63 24 87 68 53 121 50 41 91 5 6 11 6 3 9 2 0 2 3 14 2 0 2 5 0 5 5 0 5 5 0 5 14 0 14 10 1 M. F. T. 23 9 32 6 2 8 2317 40 112 112 10 1 6 0 6 M. P. T. 3 2 5 3 0 3 5 16 2 0 2 M. F. T. 21 12 33 7 3 10 17 11 28 7 9 16 St. F. T. 39 24 63 21 8 29 34 27 61 6 8 14 2 0 2 10 1 5 0 5 M. F. T. 4 3 7 5 3 8 0 2 2 112 4 0 4 2 13 2 0 2 2 0 2 8 4 12 4 2 6 2 i' 3 2 'i 3 0 11 4 15 4 4 8 10 1 2 0* 2 2 0 2 2 0 2 3 3 6 2 0 2 5 6 11 4 15 2 0 2 4 15 938 5141,452 Totals .. 215105 320 221127 318 233129 362 69 31 100 13 3 16 55 40 95 123 7319G 9 6 15

Ages. Auckland. Christchurch. Dunedin. Hokitika. Napier. Nelson. Wellington. Ashburn Hall (Private Asylum). Total. M. F. T. Oil Oil M. P. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. P. T. M. P. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. Oil 7 2 9 5 4 9 20 15 35 134 85 219 243 149 392 312 148 460 150 70 220 43 27 70 16 6 22 10 1 7 7 14 1 to 5 years 5 „ 10 „ .0 ,, 15 „ -5 „ 20 „ SO „ 30 „ 10 „ 40 „ tO „ 50 „ iO „ 60 „ iO „ 70 „ '0 „ 80 „ !0 „ 90 „ Jnknown 7 18 30 14 44 52 30 82 73 29 102 32 17 49 11 6 17| 7 4 11 10 1 2 2 4 3 0 3 0 11 5 2 7 32 18 50 49 44 93 75 35 110 40 21 61 14 6 20 3 0 3 2 0 2 3 2 5 2 8 10 32 23. 55 67 34 101 84 46 130 34 10 44 7 6 13 2 0 2 1 1 2 7 4 11 13 8 21 27 11 38 16 3 19 4 2 6 10 1 10 1 0 3 3 5 0 5 4 0 4 2 0 2 4 2 6 7 11 18 12 10 22 20 9 29 10 6 16 112 10 1 2 13 12 3 23 12 35 43 21 64 28 16 44 14 12 26 5 5 10 3 2 5 3 0 3 2 0 2 12 3 2 13 112 1 2 3 Oil 4 2 6 Totals .. 123 73 196 215 105 320 221 127 348 233 129 362 69 31 10( 13 3 16 55 40 95 9 6 15 938 514 1,452

length of Residence. Auckland. Christclaurch. Dunedin. Hokitika. Napier. Nelson. Wellington. Ashburn Hall (Private Asylum), Total. Jnder 1 month .. 1 to 3 months 8 • „ 6 „ ■ .. 6 „ 9 9 „ 12 1 „ 2 years 2 „ 3 „ 3 „ 5 „ 5 „ 7 „ 7 „ 10 „ -0 „ 12 „ -2 „ 15 „ )vor 15 „ While on trial M. F. T. 10 1 Oil 12 3 2 0 2 2 0 2 2 13 112 12 3 112 10 1 10 1 M. F. T. Oil 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 4 15 10 1 5 0 5 M. F. T. 10 1 3 0 3 3 0 3 112 112 10 1 3 14 2 2 4 10 1 M. F. T. 10 1 oil M. F. T. 0 1 1 M. F. T. 2 0 2 2 0 2 1 0 1 M. F. T. 10 1 10 1 10 1 Oil 2 0 2 M. F. T. Oil 10 1 10 1 M. F. T. 3 2 5 7 18 5 3 8 4 15 7 18 10 4 14 7 2 9 9 4 13 3 2 5 3 0 3 3 14 3 0 3 3 14 1 2 3 10 1 Oil 10 1 10 1 Oil 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 Oil 10 1 112 1 '6 1 10 1 10 1 Oil Totals 15 9 24 1G 3 19 20 G 26 3 1 4 0 1 1 5 0 5 7 3 10 2 1 3 G8 24

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Table XI.—Length of Residence of Patients discharged recovered.

Table XII.—Causes of Death.

Length of Residence. Auckland. Christchurch. Dunedin. Hokitika. Napier. Nelson. Wellington. Ashburn Hall (Private Asylum). Total. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. Jndcr 1 month 1 to 3 months „ 3 „ 6 „ 6 „ 9 „ „ 9 ,,12 „ „ 1 „ 2 years „ 2 „ 3 „ „ 3 „ 5 „ „ 5 „ 7 „ „ 7 ,,10 „ „ 10 ,,12 „ „ 12 ,,15 „ iver 15 .. 6 3 9 4 2 6 4 5 9 2 3 5 0 2 2 2 0 2 112 4 4 8 0 3 3 0 3 3 2 0 2 4 2 6 4 5 9 7 5 12 5 5 10 Oil 3 3 6 112 3 0 1 10 1 3 14 10 1 1 X 2 2 2 4 112 3 3 6 Oil 6 4 10 6 0 6 3 6 9 2 13 12 3 0 2 2 10 1 Oil 112 1 0 1 Oil 20 9 2J 18 11 2f 24 24 4f 13 15 SE 2 9 13 5 6 13 2 2 A 1 1 5 1 0 ] 2 0 £ 10 1 10 1 0 V 1 oil 10 1 10 1 10 1 1 '6 1 1 0 1 Totals 18 15 33 10 11 21 26 22 48 1 1 2 13 18 16 34 3 3 6 89 77 16i

Total. Causes. AnH-lind ChristAuckland. ohurchi Dunedin. Hokitika. Napier. Nelson. Wellington. Ashburn Hall (Private Asylum). M. F. T. Diseases of the Nervous System— Paralysis Apoplexy General paralysis Cerebral disease Exhaustion from mania Epilepsy .. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. P. T. 13 4 4 3 7 16 0 16 6 17 112 5 2 7 112 2 13 10 1 2 13 10 1 Oil 10 1 6 0 6 2 0 2 112 4 0 4 Oil 0 11 10 1 10 1 3 0 3 10 1 10 1 2 13 3 0 3 0 11 o 'i i 5 8 13 7 0 7 3 14 Diseases of the Respiratory System— Phthisis Pneumonia Congestion of lungs 0 4 4 10 1 2 13 2 0 2 2 3 5 3 0 3 2 13 10 1 10 1 1 0 1 10 1 4 2 6 Diseases of the Circulatory System— Aneurism Heart-disease 10 1 112 10 1 1 Y 2 10 1 112 Diseases of the Digestive System— Diarrhcoa 112 112 2 0 2 5 16 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 Other Diseases — Erysipelas Bright's disease Senile decay Pound dead in river .. Cancer Senile gangrene Extravasation of urine Shock from scald Asphyxia from choking 112 10 1 4 0 4 1 0 1 10 1 1 0 1 10 1 0 1 1 10 1 10 1 i b' i 10 1 68 24 92 Totals 2 13 15 9 24 16 3 19 20 6 26 3 14 Oil 5 0 5 7 3 10

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Table XIII.—Causes of Insanity.

21

Total. Causes. Auckland. Christchurch. Dunedin. Hokitika. Napier. Nelson. Wellington. Ashburo Hall (Private Asylum). M. F. T. 3 14 M. F. T. 1 M. B 1. T. 3 14 M. P. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. P. T. M. P. T. M. t. 1. Adverse circumstances 2 0 2 Brain-disease 10 1 10 1 7 6 13 Congenital 3 4 7 10 1 10 1 2 2 4 4 5 9 Climacteric 0 11 0 3 3 4 0 4 Oil 38 7 45 Drink 3 14 8 0 8 7 18 8 0 8 Oil 3 4 7 7 0 7 2 0 2 2 2 4 Domestic troubles .. 0 11 10 1 112 112 Debility 112 5 5 10 Epilepsy 3 2 5 112 112 Oil 0 11 Fright Oil 0 11 Grief Oil 30 28 58 Hereditary 3 0 3 0 11 16 14 30 2 8 7 0 3 3 3 2 5 2 2 4 4 1 I 0 11 Insanity of lactation Oil 3 0 3 Injury to head 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 Insomnia 10 1 0 11 Imbecility Oil 5 8 13 Love-affairs 0 2 2 4 3 7 Oil 10 1 0 2 2 4 5 9 Mental anxiety 3 4 7 112 12 1 13 Masturbation 10 1 3 14 3 0 3 2 0 2 10 1 2 0 2 7 2 9 Old ago 4 2 6 10 1 10 1 10 1 2 0 2 Overwork 2 0 2 8 5' 13 Previous attacks 8 5 13 0 13 13 Puerperal state 0 5 5 0 3 3 0 3 3 Oil Oil 2 13 Paralysis 2 13 0 2 2 Phthisis Oil Oil 10 1 Poverty 10 1 0 4 4 Pregnancy .. Oil 0 3 3 8 9 17 Religious excitement 112 4 6 10 112 10 1 10 1 Oil 3 2 5 Senile decay 2 13 Oil 10 1 10 1 Sunstroke 10 1 3 2 5 Solitary life 2 13 112 0 2 2 Suppression of menses 0 2 2 10 1 Softening of brain .. 10 1 85 38 123 Unknown .. 29 13 42 14 6 20 12 4 16 4 0 4 2 0 2 24 14 38 Oil 18 153 391 Totals 57 36 93 36 26 62 56 38 94 18 7 25 4 7 11 14 6 20 46 28 7 8 12

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Table XIV.—Former Occupation of Patients.

22

Total. Occupations. Auckland. ?£™£ Dunedin. Hokltika. Napier. Nelson. Wellington. Ashburn Hall (Private Asylum). M. F. T. 10 1 4 0 4 2 0 2 8 0 8 10 1 2 0 2 6 0 6 10 1 8 0 8 10 1 10 1 10 1 2 0 2 10 1 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 18 0 18 2 0 2 4 0 4 3 0 3 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 70 0 70 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 17 0 17 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 2 0 2 10 1 5 0 3 3 0 3 10 1 10 1 10 1 8 0 8 2 0 2 3 0 S 10 1 10 1 4 0 4 5 0 8 10 1 10 1 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 10 1 2 0 2 3 0 3 Males. Accountant .. .. Blacksmiths.. .. Brickniakere .. Bushmen Butcher Cabinetmakers Carpenters Carter Clerks Commercial traveller.. Chinese doctor .. Cooper Clergymen Cab proprietor .. Cooks .. .. Compositor Confectioner ■. Draper Express-driver Engine-fitter .. Farmers Fishermen Gardeners .. .. Gumdiggers Gamekeeper General dealer .. Groom .. .. Hotelkeeper Hawker Iron-smelter.. .. Insurance agent Labourers .. .. Lodginghouse-keepers Leather-worker Mariner .. .. Miners .. .. Malster Missionary ., Maori chief Nurseryman Painters Policeman Ploughmen Prisoners Photographer Postmaster Purser Sailors Settlers .. .. Shepherds Shipwright Soldier Shoemakers .. .. Students Shorthand reporter .. Storekeeper Teachers Tailor Teamster Upholsterer Wheelwrights Vagrants M. F. T. 10 1 10 1 10 1 6 0 6 M. P. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. 1. M. P. T. M. F. T. M. F. ■ ! T, T. 2 '6 2 i '6 i 10 1 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 10 1 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 3 0 3 i "o 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 4 0 4 i '6 i 10 1 2 0 2 10 1 i "o 10 1 10 1 1 '6 1 3 0 3 6 0 6 2 0 2 6 0 6 10 1 10 1 i '6 i 10 1 10 1 2 0 2 3 0 3 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 18 0 18 10 1 3 0 3 12 0 12 10 1 15 0 15 10 1 10 1 21 0 21 10 1 1 '6 1 6 0 6 10 1 10 1 8 0 8 2 '6 2 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 2 0 2 3 0 3 10 1 i "o 1 0 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 4 0 4 1 '6 1 2 0 2 i "o 1 0 1 10 1 10 1 2 0 2 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 10 1 1 0 10 1 1 0 1 '6 1 10 1 10 1 2 0 2 3 0 3 0 1 ■ 1 0 11 O' 96 96 0 11 o i i Oil 0 2 2 Oil Oil 0 2 2 0 30 30 0 3 3 Oil Oil 9 7 16 8 4 12 Females. Charwoman Dairymaid Domestic duties Dressmaker Draper's assistant Greengrocer Housemaids Lady Lady-help Nurses Servants .. Seamstresses Saleswoman.. Teacher .. No occupation Unknown o 'i i 0 '20 20 0 2 2 Oil 0 19 19 Oil 0 29 29 Oil 0 3 3 Oil 0 4 4 0 4 4 0 13 13 0 4 0 1 Oil 0 4 4 Oil Oil oil 0 12 12 0 'h 2 0 6 6 0 2 2 Oil 0 3 3 0 2 2 Oil 6 5 11 2 13 0 'i 1 2 13 10 1 Oil 112 5 2 7 238 153 391 Totals 57 36 93 36 26 62 56 38 94 18 7 25 4 7 11 14 6 20 46 28 74 7 5 12

H—lo,

Table XV.— Showing the Expenditure for the Year 1884.

23

Total. Items. Auckland. Christchurch. Dunedin. Hokitika. Napier. Nelson. Wellington. Total. £ s. a. 1,000 o o 250 0 0 743 13 6 560 14 10 250 0 0 370 0 0 SI 10 0 2,535 0 0 420 0 0 450 0 0 515 0 0 11,015 17 9 14,020 17 11 2,906 3 1 4,239 16 3 174 0 6 114 19 3 481 18 7 0,099 0 8 Inspector-General Accountant * - Medical fees Contingencies Local Inspectors Visiting Medical Officers Assistant Medical Officers Superintendents House-stewards Clerks Matrons Attendants and servants Rations Fuel and light.. Bedding and clothing Surgery and dispensary Wines, spirits, ale, and porter Farm Necessaries, incidental and miscellaneous £ s. d. 50 0 0 400 0 0 90 0 0 70 0 0 2,279 15 7 3,117 4 6 842 16 6 1,042 8 8 37 6 5 43 12 0 343 16 10 979 0 9 9,296 1 3 1,075 7 7 £ s. d. 50 0 0 600 0 0 300 0 0 150 0 0 100 0 0 2,568 6 3 3,623 0 10 824 10 8 546 13 6 38 16 2 22 5 0 £ s. d. SO 0 0 31 10 0 600 0 0 120 0 0 90 0 0 100 0 0 2,842 3 9 3,416 3 9 412 3 10 1,018 8 10 29 7 2 23 19 8 138 1 9 2,646 5 4 £ s. d. 30 0 0 120 0 0 300" 0 0 £ s. d. 30 0 0 50 0 0 35* 0 0 £ s. d. 200 0 0 200* 0 0 I £ s. d. 4tt 0 0 406' 0 0 120 0 0 100 0 0 1,605 5 5 1,839 16 3 526 9 1 730 11 3 33 1 2 10 9 0 £ s. d. 1,000 0 0 250 0 0 743 13 6 560 14 10 250 0 0 370 0 0 31 10 0 2,535 0 0 420 0 0 450 0 0 515 0 0 11,015 17 9 14,020 17 11 2,906 3 1 4,239 16 3 174 0 6 114 19 3 481 18 7 6,099 0 8 75 0 0 756 6 9 863 18 9 79 7 8 402 12 9 18 4 6 6 7 10 250 0 0 274 7 3 62 3 0 48 7 8 3 12 3 2 12 6 70 0 0 714 0 0 886 6 7 158 12 4 450 13 7 13 12 10 5 13 3 ■ 812 10 3 338 9 6 21 1 1 645" 0 7 656' 13 2 46,179 2 4 5,168 14 0 Totals 9,636 2 8 1,548 10 8 11,518 14 1 856 1 6 2,990 7 9 109 6 3 777 3 9 85 7 4 3,343 19 2 700 18 5 6,062 5 4 793 14 0 46,179 2 4 5,168 14 0 Repayments 41,010 8 4 Actual expenditure 8,220 13 8 8,087 12 0 10,662 12 7 2,881 1 6 691 16 5 2,643 0 9 5,268 11 4 41,010 8 4 * General expenses not included in Table XVI. Table XVI. —Avebage Cost of each Patient per Annum. Asylums. Provisions. Salaries. Bedding and Clothing. Fuel and Light. Surgery and Dispensary. Wines, Spirits, Ale, and Porter. Necessaries, Incidental and Miscellaneous. Total Cost per Patient. Repayment for Maintenance. Cost per Head less Eepayments. Cost per Head previous Year. Decrease in 1884. '[Increase in 1884. Auckland ,. Christchurch Dunedin Hokitika Napier Nelson Wellington ,. £ s. d. 9 14 9f 10 8 2 9 8 8J 8 12 91 7 2 111 9 6 7 9 7 8| £ s. d. 8 17 58 10 13 81 10 9 0| 12 10 3 20 18 9 12 9 3 11 7 0J £ s. d. 3 5 If 1 11 lj 2 16 3 4 0 61 3 0 5j 4 14 101 3 14 6J £ s. d. 2 12 8 2 7 4| 1 2 9J 0 15 10* 3 17 8| 1 13 4J 2 13 8J £ s. d. 0 2 3} 0 2 2| 0 1 7i 0 3 7* 0 4 6~ 0 2 101 0 3 4J £ s. d. 0 2 8| 0 1 3| 0 1 3} 0 1 4-J 0 3 3J 0 1 8} 0 1 0} £ s. d. 4 2 8 2 6 8J 7 13 9| 3 7 8J 1 6 3J 6 13 Of 3 7 0 £ s. d. 28 17 10J 27 10 11 31 13 7 29 12 Of 46 13 ll| 35 3 ll| 30 14 6 £ s. d. 3 7 2J 4 8 11| 2 7 3J 1 1 101 5 6 8J 7 7 6£ 4 0 11} £ s. d. 25 10 8 23 1 111 29 6 3J 28 10 2J 41 7 2| 27 16 5J 26 13 6} £ s. d. 28 3 71 25 13 4 23 ft 1J 29 1 11J 29 13 9| 19 16 11 30 7 71 £ s. d. 2 12 111 2 11 4| 0 11 9 £ s. d. 5 17 2 11 13 5£ 7 19 6" 3 14 1 Averages 29 17 5 3 11 2J 26 8 8J 26 6 2| 0 2 ; 5|

H.—lo.

24

Table XVII.—Statement of Receipts during the Year ended 31st December, 1884.

Table XVIII.—Expenditure, out of Immigration and Public Works Loan, on Asylum Buildings during the Financial Year ended 31st March, 1885, and Liabilities for the same.

Table XIX.—Total Expenditure, out of Immigration and Public Works Loan, for Repairs and Buildings at each Asylum, from 1st July, 1877, to 31st March, 1885.

Table XIX. — continued.

Authority: Geobgb Didsbuby, Government Printer, Wellington.—lBBs.

Asylums. Maintenance. Produce of Articles sold. Bread supplied to Gaol. Bread supplied to Hospital. Total. £ s. a. 943 18 4 1,428 4 0 819 18 2 83 3 6 85 7 4 648 3 3 726 12 3 £ s. a. 131 9 3 120 6 8 36 3 4 26 2 9 £ s. a. £ s. d. £ s. d. 1,075 7 7 1,548 10 8 856 1 6 109 6 3 85 7 4 700 18 5 793 2 3 Lucklana .. 'hristchurch )uapain .. lokitika .. Tapier f elson Vellington 6215 2 66 10 0 Totals.. 4,735 6 10 433 7 2 5,168 14 0

Asylums. Net Expenditure to 31st March, 1885. Liabilities on 81st March, 1885. luokland Vellington ihristchurcli )unedin (Seaclifl).. lelson £ s. d. 3,216 14 8 1,204 10 9 5,490 7 10 15,080 4 0 £ s. d. 108 15 8 28 3 0 312 12 7 349 17 6 280 0 0 Totals 24,992 3 3 1,079 8 9

Asylums. 1877-78. 1878-79. 1879-80. 1880-81. 1881-82. 1882-83. lUcklana Vellington .. ihristchurch )uncain (Seaclifl) Tapier lokifcika lelson £ a. a. 4,183 1 4 90 0 0 205 7 3 £ s. a. 5,150 15 7 3,797 15 11 1,239 11 6 2,690 10 2 £ s. a. 11,559 7 6 1,453 17 10 7,255 17 3 6,447 10 10 £ s. a. 8,144 11 8 6,517 10 11 18,590 3 4 6,185 5 8 87 0 0 44 17 11 34 16 0 £ s. a. 6,132 13 10 1,305 18 2 7,110 17 10 12,037 11 2 60 0 0 £ s. a. 1,218 10 7 630 19 6 1,776 3 1C 27,260 12 C 275~19 0 722 1 11 51 18 6 765 19 1 Totals 4,478 8 7 13,154 12 2 27,438 15 4 39,604 5 6 26,698 19 6 31,652 5

Asylums. 1883-84. 1884-85. Total Expenditure. Less Amounts recovered since 1st July, 1877. Net Expenditure. Auckland Wellington Wellington (Porirua Road Asylum) .. jhristchurch Dunedin (Seacliff) .. Napier Holdtika .. kelson £ s. a. 9,341 7 6 4,633 3 1 2,750 0 0 8,584 9 1 32,128 5 8 £ s. a. 3,216 14 8 1,204 16 9 5,49o' 7 10 15,081 1 6 £ s. d. 48,947 2 8 19,634 2 4 2,750 0 0 50,252 17 11 101,830 17 0 147 0 o 1,042 18 10 1,402 7 0 £ s. a. 4 2 6 20*13 6 £ s. a. 48,947 2 8 19,629 19 10 2,750 0 0 50,252 17 11 101,810 3 6 147 0 0 1,042 18 10 1,462 7 609 13 5 Totals 58,046 18 9 24,993 0 9 226,067 5 9 24 16 0 226,042 9