REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS COMMITTEE. (MR. TURNBULL, CHAIRMAN.)

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1887 Session I, I-01

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1887. NEW ZEALAND.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS COMMITTEE. (MR. TURNBULL, CHAIRMAN.)

Presented to the House of Representatives, Sess. 1., 1887, and ordered to be printed.

INDEX.

IUU I . NEW ZEALAND. EPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS COMMITTEE (ME. TUENBULL, CHAIEMAN.) Presented to the House of Representatives, Sess. I., 1887, and ordered to be pointed. tn: 'EX. No. Petitions. Page. No. Petitions. Page. 133 27 107 96 A. Allen, Edward, and Others Andrew, Eev. J. 0., and Others Arch Hill Highway Board Arnold, James, jun., Biwaka 7 3 5 5 75 G. Gisborne County Council, Cook County Council, and Gisborne Harbour Board Greer, H. L., of Johnsonville 4 131 7 41 158 23 &c. 146 16 99 55 126 18 6 90 B. Baker, Horace, of Hawke's Bay (No. 1) .. Baker, Horace, of Hawke's Bay (No. 2) .. Barmaids, Objectors to Employment of .. Baterston, E. S., and Others, of Invercargill Baucke, Henry (No. 1) .. Baucke, Henry (No. 2) .. Bellis, Hugh, Friends of.. Bishop of Nelson Brookfield, F. M. P., of Auckland Bullcn, F. and G. F. Busby, John Dow, of Marlborough 5 9 1,7,8 8 1 8 6 8 6 3 6 87 86 24 49 7 31 110 53 H. Hamilton Borough Council Hamilton Eoad Board Harding, Jane, and Others Harding, Maggie, and Others Henderson, Adam, and Spraggon, Joseph .. Hodge, Thomas H., of Port Chalmers Howe, George, of Wanganui Hutton, Donald, and two Others, of Arrowtown 4 4 1 1 2 3 8 7 146 I. Inveroargill, Ratepayers of 35 92 54 1 91 27 c. Cambridge Borough Council Cambridge Road Board .. Cameron, Charles, and Others Campbell, John, of Invercargill Carruthers, John J., and Others, of Maraetai Castlepoint and Whareama Districts, Landowners in Cleave, Robert, of Auckland Clifton County Council Codling, Elijah, and Others, of Auckland .. Cook County Council, Gisborne County Council, and Gisborne Harbour Board Costall, Samuel, and Others Cotter, Edmund, of Timaru Cotter, Martha, of Timaru Cox, J. G., and Others, of Castlepoint Customs Duties Bill, Persons in favour of the 8 108 J. Johnston, Margaret, of Taupaki Jones, Edward, of Masterton 8 6 4 4 2 8 4 3 115 33 51 68 95 2 K. Karioi Eoad Board Kelly, Jessie, of Port Chalmers Kihikihi Town District Board King, J. C, and Others, of Auckland Kirikiriroa Road Board Knox, James, and Others 5 2 4 3 4 1 83 65 157 75 5 4 9 4 77 9 10 55 132 & 154 7 3 3 6 8 135 50 47 L. Layther, James, of Kaipara Lincoln Road Board Loader, John 9 4 3 151 53 123 82 D. Darnell, H. B., of New Plymouth Davis, William, and two Others, of Arrowtown Dignan, Peter, and Others, of Auckland .. Dundas, Matthew, and Sutherland, Andrew, of Dunedin Durkin, James .. 7 6 7 7 132 152 91 54 109 103 169 102 23 57 56 42 130 M. Mace, Henry, and Others Mangorei Road Board Maraetai, Settlers of Marton, Ratepayers of .. Masterton Eoad Board McDonald, J. K., and Others McDonnell, Lieut.-Colonel Thomas McFadgen, Malcolm, and Others.. Mclntyre, Jane, and Others McLean, John, and Others Middleton, J. A., and Others Morrison, Samuel Mussen, Charles, of Caversham .. 8 7 4 2 5 5 9 7 1 1 1 4 G 22 5 121 61 166 122 154 39 P. Fcilding Borough Council Filder, J. W., and Others Firman, Thomas, of Kaiapoi Firth, J. 0., and Others, of Auckland Foster, J., and Others Fulton, Catherine, and Others 7 2 9 7 8 1 159 117 126 N. Napier Borough Council.. Napier Chamber of Commerce Nelson, Bishop of 9 5 8

IUU I . NEW ZEALAND. EPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS COMMITTEE (ME. TUENBULL, CHAIEMAN.) Presented to the House of Representatives, Sess. I., 1887, and ordered to be pointed. tn: 'EX. No. Petitions. Page. No. Petitions. Page. 133 27 107 96 A. Allen, Edward, and Others Andrew, Eev. J. 0., and Others Arch Hill Highway Board Arnold, James, jun., Biwaka 7 3 5 5 75 G. Gisborne County Council, Cook County Council, and Gisborne Harbour Board Greer, H. L., of Johnsonville 4 131 7 41 158 23 &c. 146 16 99 55 126 18 6 90 B. Baker, Horace, of Hawke's Bay (No. 1) .. Baker, Horace, of Hawke's Bay (No. 2) .. Barmaids, Objectors to Employment of .. Baterston, E. S., and Others, of Invercargill Baucke, Henry (No. 1) .. Baucke, Henry (No. 2) .. Bellis, Hugh, Friends of.. Bishop of Nelson Brookfield, F. M. P., of Auckland Bullcn, F. and G. F. Busby, John Dow, of Marlborough 5 9 1,7,8 8 1 8 6 8 6 3 6 87 86 24 49 7 31 110 53 H. Hamilton Borough Council Hamilton Eoad Board Harding, Jane, and Others Harding, Maggie, and Others Henderson, Adam, and Spraggon, Joseph .. Hodge, Thomas H., of Port Chalmers Howe, George, of Wanganui Hutton, Donald, and two Others, of Arrowtown 4 4 1 1 2 3 8 7 146 I. Inveroargill, Ratepayers of 35 92 54 1 91 27 c. Cambridge Borough Council Cambridge Road Board .. Cameron, Charles, and Others Campbell, John, of Invercargill Carruthers, John J., and Others, of Maraetai Castlepoint and Whareama Districts, Landowners in Cleave, Robert, of Auckland Clifton County Council Codling, Elijah, and Others, of Auckland .. Cook County Council, Gisborne County Council, and Gisborne Harbour Board Costall, Samuel, and Others Cotter, Edmund, of Timaru Cotter, Martha, of Timaru Cox, J. G., and Others, of Castlepoint Customs Duties Bill, Persons in favour of the 8 108 J. Johnston, Margaret, of Taupaki Jones, Edward, of Masterton 8 6 4 4 2 8 4 3 115 33 51 68 95 2 K. Karioi Eoad Board Kelly, Jessie, of Port Chalmers Kihikihi Town District Board King, J. C, and Others, of Auckland Kirikiriroa Road Board Knox, James, and Others 5 2 4 3 4 1 83 65 157 75 5 4 9 4 77 9 10 55 132 & 154 7 3 3 6 8 135 50 47 L. Layther, James, of Kaipara Lincoln Road Board Loader, John 9 4 3 151 53 123 82 D. Darnell, H. B., of New Plymouth Davis, William, and two Others, of Arrowtown Dignan, Peter, and Others, of Auckland .. Dundas, Matthew, and Sutherland, Andrew, of Dunedin Durkin, James .. 7 6 7 7 132 152 91 54 109 103 169 102 23 57 56 42 130 M. Mace, Henry, and Others Mangorei Road Board Maraetai, Settlers of Marton, Ratepayers of .. Masterton Eoad Board McDonald, J. K., and Others McDonnell, Lieut.-Colonel Thomas McFadgen, Malcolm, and Others.. Mclntyre, Jane, and Others McLean, John, and Others Middleton, J. A., and Others Morrison, Samuel Mussen, Charles, of Caversham .. 8 7 4 2 5 5 9 7 1 1 1 4 G 22 5 121 61 166 122 154 39 P. Fcilding Borough Council Filder, J. W., and Others Firman, Thomas, of Kaiapoi Firth, J. 0., and Others, of Auckland Foster, J., and Others Fulton, Catherine, and Others 7 2 9 7 8 1 159 117 126 N. Napier Borough Council.. Napier Chamber of Commerce Nelson, Bishop of 9 5 8

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No. Petitions. Page. 105 100 60 36 160 Newcastle Eoad Board .. Nias, G. K, of Wellington Nissen, Victor, of Otamatea Noonan, M. A., and Others North Dunedin Cemetery Extension Bill, Opponents of the 5 5 2 1 9 157 134 116 o. Old Soldiers and Others, of Auckland Ormondvillo Eoad Board Otaki Eoad Board 9 7 5 124 25 172 78 94 P. Palmer, Jackson, of Auckland Park, G. M., of Mastorton Patoa West Road Board.. Pemberthy, Henry, and Others Pirongia Eoad Board 7 6 10 7 4 54 88 R. Eangitikei County, Eatepayers of Eeynolds, J. W., and Others 2 4 45 38 5 171 7 82 s. Slator, James, of Auckland Smith, James, and Others Soall, J. C, of Auckland.. Special Settlement Associations, Wellington, Members of Spraggon, Joseph, and Henderson, Adam .. Sutherland, Andrew, and Dundas, Matthew, , of Dunedin Sutherland, E. E. M., and Others, of Otago Symons, Eliza Sophia 5 1 6 9 2 7 149 34 8 3 64 93 170 T. Tamahere Eoad Board Taotaoroa Eoad Board Tarawera Eruption, Sufferer by the 4 4 10

No. Petitions. Page. 106 89 72 32 30 76 Te Awamutu Town Board Thomas, F., and Others Thompson, Andrew, of Waikouaiti Thompson, Mary Ann Tandy Toloher, Harriet Treadwell, James, and Others 5 4 4 1 4 7 2 U. Unemployed of Dunedin 1 35 &o. V. Vailc's Railway System, Local Bodies in favour of Vollbracht, August, of Auckland .. 4,5,7, 9,10 8 147 63 120 160 162 168 68 171 54 101 170 53 w. Waikato County Council Wainui Road Board Wain, Job, and Others, of Opoho Waipa County Council (No. 1) Waipa County Council (No. 2) Waitemata, Electors of .. Walker, Enoch, and Others Wanganui Harbour Board Rating Bill, Objectors to the Watson, A. R., and Others Way, Captain H. F., of Wairoa Welsh, William, and two Others, of Arrowtown Whaingaroa Road Board Whareama and Castlepoint Districts, Landowners in Whitty, Richard Wilson, J. L., and Others Women's Suffrage, Persons in favour of .. 4 7 9 9 9 3 9 2 7 10 7 104 27 5 3 14 17 61 & 17 1 2 2 Y. 2 37 Young, James ..

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1887. NEW ZEALAND.

Presented to the House of 'Representatives, Session 1., 1887, and ordered to be printed.

No. 2.—Petition of James Knox and Others. Petitioners, the unemployed of Dunedin, state that they have been induced by paid agents to leave steady employment in the Old Country under the belief that there was work and good wages in New Zealand; that they are totally unable to find employment in any shape, or at any wage whatever, and are suffering severe hardships. They pray that such relief and employment may be granted to them as will relieve their present necessities. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 12th May, 1887.

No. 16.—Petition of Heney Bauckb, of Wellington (No. 1). Petitioner states that he has been endeavouring to obtain justice in the law-courts of the colony since the year 1860, but has been unable to do so. He now prays that he may be heard at the bar of the House. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner should be granted. 12th May, 1887.

No. 14.—Petition of Eichaed Whitty. Petitioneb states that he was a storeman in the employ of the Now Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company ; that it was his duty to proceed from Dunedin to Burnside once every week ; that on the 10th December, 1884, he started to catch a train as usual; that the train, instead of stopping, was passing the station at a slow rate of speed, when petitioner, being afraid of losing his employment if left behind, attempted to get into the train while in motion; that ho fell between the train and the platform, and was so severely injured as to be disabled for life ; that he has a wife and young family to support, but no means of earning a livelihood. He prays for relief. I am directed, to report that, as the injuries sustained by the petitioner were caused by his own default, he has no claim against the colony. 13th May, 1887.

Nos. 23, 24, 36, 38, 39, 49, 56, and 57.—Petitions of Jane Mclntyeb and Others, Jane Habding and Others, M. A. Noonan and Others, Jambs Smith and Others, Catherine Fulton and Others, Maggie Harding and Others, J. A. Middleton and Others, John McLean and Others. Petitioners state that they consider the employment of girls and women as barmaids to be inimical to the public weal and degrading to the sex, alleging five distinct reasons for this belief; but that, as a sudden withdrawal of their present means of livelihood would be a hardship to those now employed in that capacity, they should be allowed to continue their avocation, but that after a certain date the employment of any other persons as barmaids should be prohibited. They pray that a Bill may be introduced to give effect to the prayer of their petition. I am directed to report that, no evidence whatever having been adduced in support of the allegations contained in these petitions, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th May, 1887.

No. 32.—Petition of Mary Ann Tandy Thompson. Petitioner, a Middle Island half-caste, prays that all the lands, goods, and chattels which belonged to her deceased Maori mother and stepmother may be awarded to her. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, the petition should be referred to the Native Affairs Committee. 13th May, 1887. I—l. 1.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS COMMITTEE. (MR. TURNBULL, CHAIRMAN.)

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No. 37. —Petition of James Young. Petitioner, late a warder in the Auckland Gaol, states that he was discharged owing to ill-health, and received compensation. He prays for further consideration. I am directed to report that the Committee can see no reason to alter the decisions arrived at in the last three sessions. 13th May, 1887.

No. 54. —Petition of Charles Cameron and Others. Petitioners, ratepayers in the Borough of Marton and County of Eangitikei, pray that the Wanganui Harbour Board Eating Bill may not be passed, or that the County of Eangitikei may be excluded from the Wanganui Harbour District. I am directed to report that, as a Bill dealing with the subject-matter of this petition is now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th May, 1887.

No. 61.—Petition of J. W. Filder and Others, of Auckland. Petitioners pray that such an alteration may be made in the electoral laws as will enable women to have conferred on them the same rights of franchise as are enjoyed by the male inhabitants of the colony. I am directed to report that, as a Bill dealing with the subject-matter of this petition is now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th May, 1887.

No. 17.—Petition of J. L. Wilson and Others. Petitioners, residents in the City and Province of Auckland, pray that such an alteration may be made in the electoral laws as would enable women to have conferred upon them the same rights of franchise as are enjoyed by the male inhabitants of the colony. I am directed to report that, as a Bill dealing with the subject-matter of this petition is now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 12th May, 1887.

No. 7.—Petition of Adam Henderson and Joseph Spraggon. Petitioners state that they were the registered owners of the cutter " Sovereign of the Seas;" that in June last she left the Port of Auckland in charge of John Caffrey, bound for the Great Barrier ; that on their arrival there the said John Caffrey, in conjunction with a man named Perm, committed a murder and then sailed away with the cutter; that, the case being one of murder as well as barratry, it was taken up by the police, and petitioners allege that, while waiting the issue of the action taken by the police, they were unable to move on their own behalf; that the cutter was eventually wrecked and the men captured ; that, owing to the neglect of the Government in taking prompt and efficient measures for the recovery of the cutter, petitioners have suffered loss amounting to £500. They pray for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioners have no claim against the colony. 12th May, 1887.

No. 60.—Petition of Victor Nissen, of Otamatea. Petitioner states that in 1882 the Government of New Zealand offered a bonus for the introduction into the colony of ostriches or ostrich-eggs, but that no advantage was taken of the offer, and it lapsed by effluxion of time ; that in January, 1886, he succeeded in introducing into the Auckland Province forty-six young ostriches from South Africa, which are now depasturing on his estate at Otamatea. That he suffered great hardships in the undertaking, and pecuniary loss to such an extent that he is now unable to develop the industry for want of funds. That the said industry will prove of great benefit to the colony. He prays that a bonus or other monetary assistance may be granted to him. I am directed to report that the Committee, in view of the fact that a bonus was offered in 1882 for the introduction of ostriches, and considering that it is an industry which might result in great advantage to the colony, recommend the petition to the favourable consideration of the Government. 19th May, 1887.

No. 33.—Petition of Jessie Kelly, of Port Chalmers. Petitioner states that her late husband, Thomas Kelly, served as a pilot in the Port Chalmers Harbour from 1859 until 1886 — i.e., twenty-seven years, fifteen of which were under the Provincial Government, and twelve under the Otago Harbour Board; that she has received compensation for her husband's services to the Board at the rate of £25 per annum for twelve years, but that said Board refuse to pay compensation on account of the fifteen years during which her husband served the Provincial Government. Petitioner alleges that a further sum of £375 is due to her, being an allowance of £25 per annum for said fifteen years. She prays that this sum may be granted to her. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 19th May, 1887. *

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No. 31.—Petition of Thomas H. Hodge, of Port Chalmers. Petitioner states that he joined the service of the Bailway Department in 1875, as tally-clerk, at £140 per annum; that his services were dispensed with in 1883; that he was informed by the traffic manager other employment would be found for him; that such employment has not been found. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. 19th May, 1887.

No. 27. —Eev. J. C. Andrew and Others. Petitioners, owners and occupiers of land in the Castlepoint and Whareama Districts, pray that the Babbit Nuisance Act may bo more equitably administered. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Babbit Nuisance Committee. 19th May, 1887.

No. 10. —Petition of Martha Cotter, of Timaru. Petitioner states that she has served the Government as matron of the Timaru Prison for thirteen years ; that, although there has never been any complaint against her, her services were dispensed with in September, 1886 ; that she was awarded £33 as compensation for loss of office. Petitioner prays for further compensation. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 19th May, 1887.

No. 9.—Petition of Edmund Cotteb, of Timaru. Petitioner states that he has served the Government for twenty-five years, of which the last twenty-three were spent in the service of the Prisons Department; that in September, 1886, while holding the post of Gaoler at Timaru, he was suspended on account of an alleged breach of the prison regulations ; that he was advised to resign, and did so, believing that he would be treated as other Gaolers had been ; that he had only received an allowance of £65, or three months' salary. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the petitioner has no further claim against the colony, but, considering the circumstances under which he resigned, the Committee recommends him to the consideration of the Government for some light employment outside the Prisons Department. 19th May, 1887.

No. 6.-Petition of F. and G. F. Bollen, of Kaikoura. Petitioners state that on the 23rd August, 1886, they were fined 3d. per head on 35,000 sheep, under the 23rd clause of "The Sheep Act, 1878; " that when they were so fined only one infected sheep was found in a mob of 4,700 separately held, while the remainder of the sheep worked from the same station were clean; that the two flocks were divided by fences and rivers; that in the following November the mob of 4,700 was inspected and found clean; that the remainder of the flock of 35,000 had been kept isolated and came in clean also, without having been dipped. Petitioners pray that the aforesaid fine may be remitted, or other relief accorded to them. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, under the circumstances the fine should be remitted, except to the extent of 3d. per head on 4,700 sheep. 19th May, 1887.

No. 47. —Petition of John Loadee. Petitioner states that while employed by the railway authorities on the wharves at Lyttelton in February, 1886, he met with a serious accident owing to the carelessness of the employes; that said injury has prevented him from working up to the present time, and continues to do so ; that he has received three months' half-pay and three months' quarter-pay, and been informed that nothing further can be done for him. He prays for compensation for injuries received. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 19th May, 1887.

No. 34.—Petition of Eliza Sophia Symonds. Petitioned states she is the widow of the late John Symonds, who was an officer in the Customs Department for four and a half years; that he died m December, 1886, from consumption caused by a severe cold caught while employed in the Queen's Bond at Wellington. She prays for compensation on account of her husband's services. I am directed to report that the Committee does not consider that the petitioner has any claim against the colony. 20th May, 1887.

No. 68. —Petition of J. C. King and Others, of Auckland. Petitioners allege that the Eeturning Officer for the Electoral District of Waitemata added the names of Maoris to the electoral roll who were not properly qualified for that privilege; that he removed names from the said roll without the owners thereof receiving any notice of objection ; that he placed names on the supplementary roll after the writ had been issued. They pray for an investigation, and that the Eepresentation Act may be so amended as to prevent these irregularities occurring again.

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I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government in order that they may consider whether the Bill now before the House deals sufficiently with the matters complained of. 20th May, 1887.

No. 42.—Petition of Samuel Moeeison. Petitionee states that he was a warder of the Dunedin Prison for seventeen years; that on the 21st October, 1886, he was employed as warder overseer over a number of prisoners working in a quarry at Otago Heads; that the work was very dangerous for the prisoners owing to the falling rocks, &o.; that his attention was absorbed in watching this falling debris in order to prevent the men being struck; that -when the prisoners were mustered in the evening one was found to have escaped; that an inquiry was subsequently held over his escape, and petitioner dismissed in consequence. Pie prays that he may be compensated for loss of office. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner. 20th May, 1887.

No. 30.—Petition of Habeiet Tolcheb. Petitionee states that her late husband (W. B. Davis) insured his life with the New Zealand Government Life Insurance Department in 1871; that the total amount of premiums paid was £108 2s. 6d. ; that in 1876 he borrowed £32 on his policy, and paid the interest until September, 1878; that he died in 1879, and the department refused to pay petitioner's claim, alleging that the policy had become void owing to the surrender-value having been absorbed in paying the loan and one premium ; that the case was eventually settled by arbitration, and the petitioner awarded full amount of claim, less interest and loan; that .she had to pay half the cost of arbitration, and was put to great expense in prosecuting her claim. Petitioner prays that a sum may be granted as compensation for the delay, &c, which took place in settling her claim. I am directed to report that, the petitioner having already given a receipt for the sum of £500 (being the sum assured) in full of all claims and demands under and by virtue of the said policy, she has no claim against the colony. 25th May, 1887.

Nos. 35, 50, si, 63, 64, 65, 86, 87, 92, 93, 94, and 95. Petitions of Boeough Council of Cambeidge, Lincoln Boad Boaed, Kihikihi Town Disteict Boaed, Waikato County Council, Tamaheee Eoad Boaed, Clifton County Council, Hamilton Eoad Boaed, Bobough Council of Hamilton, Cambeidge Eoad Boabd, Taotaoeoa Eoad Boaed, Pibongia Eoad Boabd, and Kieikirieoa Eoad Boaed. Petitionees state that last session a Committee was appointed to inquire into the system of railway management proposed by Mr. Samuel Vaile ; that the said Committee recommended a trial, but attached conditions which practically rendered the carrying-out of such trial an impossibility. They pray that these adverse conditions may be removed, and that a trial may be given to the scheme which will test its efficiency. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 25th May, 1887.

No. 72. —Petition of Andeew Thompson, of Waikouaiti. Petitionee prays that Waikouaiti Bay may be formed into a harbour. I am directed to report that this .Committee has no recommendation to make. 26th May, 1887.

]SFo. 75. —Petition of the Boeough Council of Gisboene, the County Council of Cook, and the Gisbobne Habboue Boaed. Petitionees pray that a Deeds Eegistry Office may be established at Gisborne at an early date. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 26th May, 1887.

Nos. 88 and 89.—Petitions of J. W. Beynolds and Others and P. Thomas and Others. Petitionees, shop assistants, factory employes, and others, who have been benefited by the labours of the late Mr. J. B. 8.-Bradshaw, pray that a sum may be placed on the estimates for his widow and family, who are in poor circumstances. I am directed to report that this Committee has no recommendation to make. 26th May, 1887.

No. 91. —Petition of John J. Cabbuthebs and Others, of Maraitai. Petitionees pray the Government to cause a small wharf to be erected near the mouth of the Turanga Greek. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 26th May, 1887.

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No. 100.—Petition of G. E. Nias, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that the capital city of New Zealand may be removed to some inland plain, where there will be room for a large city to grow. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 27th May, 1887.

No. 103.—Petition of J. K. McDonald and Others. Petitioners, ratepayers of the Whaingaroa Eoad District, pray that certain amendments may be made in " The Local Bodies' Loans Act, 1886." I am directed to report that, as a Bill dealing with the subject-matter of this petition is now before the House, this Committee has no recommendation to make, 27th May, 1887.

Nos. 104, 105, 106, 107, 109, 115, 116, and 117. —Petitions of the Whaingakoa Eoad Boaed, the Newcastle Eoad Board, the Te Awamutu Town Board, the Archill Highway Board, the Masterton Eoad Boabd, the Kaeioi Eoad Boaed, the Otaki Eoad Boaed, and the Napieb Chamber op Commerce. Petitioners state last session a Committee was appointed to inquire into the system of railwaymanagement proposed by Mr. Samuel Vaile; that said Committee recommended a trial, but attached conditions which practically rendered the carrying-out of such trial an impossibility. They pray that these adverse conditions may bo removed, and that a trial may be given to the scheme which will test its efficiency. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 27th May, 1887.

, No. 22.—Petition of James Duekin. Petitioneb states that he was on duty as assistant warder at Mount Cook Prison on the 29th January, 1887; that while he was performing said duty the escape of a prisoner named Crabtree was discovered ; that an inquiry was held by Captain Hume and Mr. Garvey, which resulted in petitioner's services being dispensed with; that he applied to the Minister of Justice for another inquiry into the case, but application was refused. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, having fully inquired into this case, and taken the evidence of Captain Sutter, M.H.E., Captain Hume, Inspector of Prisons, Messrs. Garvey, Mallington, and Duggan, gaol officials, and the petitioner, the Committee is of opinion that petitioner's services were rightly dispensed with, and that he has no claim against the colony. 31st May, 1887.

No. 41. —Petition of Hobace Bakbe, of Hawke's Bay (No 1). Petitionbe states that his services have been dispensed with after sixteen years' service in the Survey and Crown Lands Department; that the reason given for his dismissal is the further reduction in the expenditure of the Survey Department; that his character has been grievously injured by this sudden and abrupt dismissal. He prays that the matter may be investigated, and that the House will either reinstate him in his office or cause some other reason than that of retrenchment to be given for his dismissal. I am directed to report that the Committee, having investigated the case, is of opinion that the petitioner has been fairly dealt with, and has no further claim against the colony. 2nd June, 1887.

No. 83.'—Petition of Eobeet Cleave, of Auckland. Petitioned states that ho has been employed by the Bailway Department for the last twelve years as a stationmaster ; that in March, 1887, he received a notice to the effect that his services were dispensed with consequent upon the reduction of the station staff. He prays that he may be reinstated in his office or granted one month's pay for every year of service. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner. 2nd June, 1887.

No. 45. —Petition of James Slatob, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that a decision given in the District Court on the 13th December, 1886, in reference to the value of a lithograph of Auckland in 1842, and against which decision he applied for a rehearing, but was refused, may be further investigated. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner. Ist June, 1887.

No. 96.—Petition of James Arnold, Jun., of Eiwaka. Petitioner states that he -went to Parihaka as sergeant of the Waimea Eifle Volunteers; that while there he contracted rheumatism from the cold and exposure, which has caused him to become quite helpless. He prays for compensation on account of injuries sustained in the service of the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner. Ist June, 1887.

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No. 55.—Petition of J. G. Cox and Others, of Castlepoint. Petitionees state that they consider the fine of £15 inflicted in March last on one Hugh Bellis, for a breach of " The Babbit Act, 1882," was excessive. They pray that the said fine, or a portion thereof, may be remitted. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this fine should be reduced to £5. BBW' 3rd June, 1887.

No. 25.—Petition of G. M. Pake, of Masterton. Petitioneb states that ho served as telegraphist in the Taupo District (at what was termed the " front ") during the time Sir Donald McLean was Native Minister; that ho performed this duty for five years, and was able at various times to supply valuable information to the Government; that he suffered hardships and pecuniary loss in obtaining said information. He prays that a bonus of £500 may be granted to him as compensation for private funds expended on Government business, and for the extra services he performed. I am directed to report that, although the Committee cannot recommend the sum named in the petition, they consider the petitioner has a claim to some extent, and therefore recommend the petition to the favourable consideration of the Government. 3rd June, 1887.

No. 18.—Petition of E. M. P. Bbookfield, of Auckland. Petitionee states that he was appointed Crown Solicitor in 1865, and also held other appointments ; that in 1881 he was offered a Judgeship in the Native Land Court, and, thinking the appointment would be a permanent one, he gave up his other offices and accepted it; that in January, 1887, he received notice that his services would be dispensed with after the 31st March, on the ground of retrenchment; that he only received £296 os. 6d. as compensation, no allowance being made in consideration of the previous appointments he had held. He prays for relief. I«am directed to report that the Committee are of opinion that, as the Government admit they have no fault whatever to find with the petitioner, it would have been better that they should not have dispensed with his services on the ground of economy alone whilst they still retained in office as a Judge another gentleman whose appointment was comparatively recent. The Committee therefore recommend that the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 3rd June, 1887.

No. s.—Petition of J. C. Soall, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he may have a fair and open inquiry into his proposed system of musketry instruction, before a meeting of the whole of the Volunteer officers of Auckland. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 3rd June, 1887.

No. 130. —Petition of Chables Mussen, of Caversham. Petitioner states that he has been employed in the Railway Goods Department for nine years ; that in September, 1886, he suffered the injury of a broken leg, owing to carelessness on the part of the employes ; that he has received half-pay for twelve weeks and quarter-pay for another twelve weeks, but has been informed by the department that according to the regulations no further relief can be granted ; that he is unfit for any occupation at present, and has no means of support for himself and young family. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the petitioner appears to be a worthy object for a special compassionate allowance, and the Committee therefore recommend that the petition should be referred to the favourable consideration of Government. 3rd June, 1887.

No. 108. —Petition of Edwabd Jokes, of Masterton. Pbtitionbb states that he was the contractor for the carriage of mails between the post-office, Masterton, and the railway-station for two years; that when the railway was extended to Mauriceville certain mails had to be carried by petitioner for the carriage of which he had not contracted ; that the sum of £10 was allowed him, but he has been put to a loss of fully £15 beyond this allowance. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 3rd June, 1887.

No. 90.—Petition of John Dow Busby, of Marlborough. Petitioner states that he is the occupier of the Upton Downs Bun; that in July, 1885, he was fined £269 17s. 6d. for being in possession of 21,590 scabby sheep. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that there appears to the Committee to be no reason why the petitioner should receive exceptional treatment. Numerous fines have been inflicted and payment enforced, and since 1884 none have been remitted. The Committee therefore can see' no reason to depart from the decisions arrived at in the last two sessions, and cannot recommend the granting of thr prayer of the petitioner. 3rd June, 1887.

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No. 82.—Petition of Andeew Sutherland and Matthew Dundas, of Dunedin. Petitionees state that they were attendants in the Seacliff Lunatic Asylum; that in May, 1886, they wrote to Dr. Neil, the Medical Superintendent, to the effect that one of the patients had died without receiving sufficient medical treatment from him; that they were subsequently dismissed on account of having written this letter, and Dr. Neil wrote to the Superintendents of other public asylums warning them not to engage the petitioners ; that the petitioner A. Sutherland brought an action against Dr. Neil for libel, and was awarded damages. They pray that they may be reinstated or awarded compensation. I am directed to report that, the petitioners having already received payment of one month's pay and their costs in full of their claims against the colony, the Committee cannot recommend the granting of the prayer of the petition. 3rd June, 1887.

No. 151. —Petition of 11. B. Daenell, of New Plymouth. Petitioner prays for the revision of rents charged on certain Native lands. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 3rd June, 1887.

No. 131.—Petition of H. L. Geeee, of Johnsonville. Petitioner alleges that he has suffered loss owing to his two children having been sent to the Burnham Industrial Institution, where, he states, they learnt nothing but evil. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee can see no reason to depart from the decision arrived at last session, and consider that the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 3rd June, 1887.

Nos. 76, 77, 78, 101, 102, and 133.—Petitions of James Treadwell and Others, Samuel Costali*, and Others, Heney Pembeethy and Others, A. E. Watson and Others, Malcolm McFadgen and Others, and Bdwaed Allen and Others. Petitionees state that they consider the employment of women as barmaids to be inimical to the public weal and degrading to the sex ; they allege five reasons for this belief. They pray that a register of those employed in this calling may be kept, and those now employed allowed to continue their avocation, but that after a certain date the engagement of any other persons as barmaids be prohibited. I am directed to report that, no evidence whatever having been adduced in support of the allegations contained in these petitions, this Committee has no recommendation to make. 3rd June, 1887.

Nos. 134, 120, 121, and 152.—Petitions of Oemondville Eoad Boaed, Wainui Boad Board, Borough of Feilding, and Mangoeei Boad Boaed. Petitionees state that last session of the House a Committee was a/ppointed to inquire into the system of railwa3'-management proposed by Mr. S. Vaile; that the Committee recommended a trial, but attached conditions which rendered the carrying-out of such trial an impossibility. They pray that the adverse conditions may be removed, and a trial given to the scheme. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 3rd June, 1887.

No. 53.—Petitions of William Davis, William Welsh, and Donald Hutton, of Arrowtown. Petitioners, contractors for No. 6 Section of Skippers Dray Boad, pray that they may be compensated for certain work done as extras in connection with said contract. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioners have no claim against the colony. 7th June, 1887.

Nos. 122 and 123.—Petitions of J. C. Firth and Others and Petee Dignan and Others. Petitioners state that they understand steps are being taken to close the Mount Eden Eifle Eange. They pray that the said range may remain open for the use of the Volunteers, as at present. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 7th June, 1887.

No. 124. —Petition of Jackson Palmer, of Auckland. Petitioner, a lieutenant in the Ponsonby Bifie Volunteer Company, states that in March last he was placed under arrest; that baseless charges were preferred against him; that when proved innocent he was simply released, and witnesses' expenses in another case denied him. He prays that a certain document, necessary in a prosecution for libel, may be produced by the Defence Department, and that a repetition of the wrongs he has suffered may be prevented. I am directed to report that, as this matter is at present under the consideration of the Government, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 7th June, 1887.

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Nos. 132 and 154. —Petitions of Henry Mace and Others, and J. Foster and Others. Petitioners pray that effect may be given to the proposals of the Colonial Treasurer, as laid down in the Customs Duties Bill with schedules attached. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of these petitions has been under the consideration of the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 7th June, 1887.

No. 146.—Petition of E. S. Batebston and Others. Petitioners, residents and ratepayers of Invercargill, pray that certain waterworks may not b e erected on a public reserve in that city. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 7th June, 1887.

No. 147. —Petition of August Vollbbaoht, of Auckland. Petitioner prays that he may be awarded a bonus on account of having introduced the cultivation of tobacco into the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend that the prayer of the petitioner be granted. 7th June, 1887.

No. 149. — Petition of R. R. M. Suthebland and Others, of Otago. Petitioners state that they consider the employment of women as barmaids to be inimical to the public weal and degrading to the sex. They allege five reasons for this belief. They pray that a register of those employed in this calling may be kept, and those now employed allowed to continue their avocation, but that, after a certain date, the employment of any other persons as barmaids be prohibited. I am directed to report that, no evidence whatever having been adduced in support of the allegations contained in these petitions, this Committee has no recommendation to make. 7th June, 1887.

No. 126.—Petition of the Bishop of Nelson. Petitionee prays that such measures may be taken by the House as will insure to every one of suitable age, however and wherever trained, the privilege of access to the examinations of the University for an ordinary degree in arts. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. Bth June, 1887.

No. 8.—Petition of Mabgabet Johnston, of Taupaki. Petitionee states that in October, 1885, she purchased thirteen and a half acres of Crown land for £90, viz., Section 28a; that she paid this high price on account of there being easy access to a creek ; that no road was laid oxit through 28a at the time of sale, but that since then the owner of the adjoining section has laid claim to and caused one to be laid out which completely cuts off petitioner's water-frontage. She prays for compensation on account of the deprivation of her valuable water-rights, or that the road may be made somewhere else, so as not to interfere with her ready access to the creek. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the Allotment No. 28a, referred to by the petitioner, should not be interfered with as regards taking a road through it. Bth June, 1887.

No. I.—Petition of John Campbell, of Invercargill. Petitioner prays that an inquiry may be made into the rejection of his tender for the construction of light railwaj^s, which was sent in to the late Provincial Government of Otago. I am directed to report that this Committee can see no reason to depart from the decision arrived at by the Committee in 1878. 9th June, 1887.

No. 99.—Petition of Henry Baucke, of Wellington (No. 2). Petitioner prays that his claim, as set forth in his letter to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary, of the 9th December, 1886, may be settled. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has not the slightest claim against the colony. 9th June, 1887.

No. 110.—Petition of George Howe, of Wanganui. Petitionee states that in. April, 1885, one J. A. Johnson took a contract on the Great Northern Trunk Railway, and that lie, in conjunction with one Peter Bell, became security for said contractor in the sum of £3,500; that in August, 1885, the Public Works Department took this contract out of Johnson's hands, and called on petitioner and Bell to complete it; that the sum of £500 had been deposited by Johnson as security for the fulfilment of his contract; that Bell was unable to assist, and he (petitioner) had to finish the said contract, thereby losing £8,000. He prays that the sum of £500 lodged by Johnson may be paid him (petitioner).

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I am directed to report that, as it appears there may be two or more claimants, in the opinion of the Committee it is desirable that the sum of £500 should be paid into Court under the provisions of Eule 472, the Supreme Court Code, 1882, to be there dealt with according to law. 9th June, 1887.

No. 135. —Petition of James Layther, of Aratapu, Kaipara. Petitioner states that, in consequence of having lost his land scrip and discharge as a soldier, by fire, his claim was disallowed by the late Commission. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, the facts of this case having been specially inquired into by the Land Claims Commission, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th June, 1887.

No. 157. —Petition of Elijah Codling and Others, of Auckland. Petitioners, discharged seamen of the Royal navy, soldiers, and volunteers, pray for grants of landI am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th June, 1887.

No. 158.—Petition of Horace Baker (No. 2). Petitioner prays for an investigation as to the refusal of the Government to grant leave of absence on his services being dispensed with. I am directed to report that, as the point raised by the petitioner was considered by the Committee when considering the former petition, they can see no reason to depart from the decision then arrived at. 9th June, 1887.

Nos. 159 and 168.—Petition of Napier Bobough Council and Waipa County Council (No. 2). Petitioners state that last session a Committee of the House was appointed to inquire into the system of railway management proposed by Mr. S. Vaile; that the Committee recommended a trial, but attached conditions which practically rendered the carrying-out of such trial an impossibility. They pray that these adverse conditions may be removed, and a trial given to the scheme. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th June, 1887.

No. 160. —Petition of Job Wain and Others, of Opoho, Dunedin. Petitioners pray that the North Dunedin Cemetery Extension Bill may not be passed. I am directed to report that, as this Bill is now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th June, 1887.

No. 162. —Petition of the Waipa County Council (No. 1). Petitioners pray for certain alterations in "The Local Bodies' Loans Act, 1886." I am directed to report that, this question being now before Parliament, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th June, 1887.

No. 166.—Petition of Thomas Firman, of Camside, Kaiapoi. Petitioner states that, after serving in the Defence Force in various capacities, he was finally dismissed from the Armed Constabulary in 1882 on account of illness; that he contracted this illness from exposure while on duty as a policeman ; that he received £146 as compensation. He prays for further relief. I am directed to report that the Committee can see no reason to depart from the decision arrived at in the session of 1883. 9th June, 1887.

No. 169.—Petition of Lieut.-Colonel Thomas McDonnell. Petitioner prays that his pension as a recipient of the New Zealand Cross may be paid from the date of the Order in Council creating the same. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim ■whatever against the colony. 9th June, 1887.

No. 171. —Petition of Enoch Walker and Others. Petitioners, members of the following Special Settlement Associations, viz., Masterton-Manga-hoe, Woodville-Mangahao, Woodville-Mangatainoko, and other settlers, pray that the surveyed line of railway from Eketahuna to Woodville may not be altered. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. , 10th June, 1887.

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No. 172.—Petition of the Patea West Eoad Boaed. Petitioners pray that Mr. S. Vaile's railway scheme may be accorded a trial. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be_^referred to the Government for consideration. 10th June, 1887.

No. 170.—Petition of H. F. Way, of Wairoa. Petitioneb states that in June, 1886, he was the owner of property at Wairoa worth £3,000; that in said month an eruption occurred which utterly destroyed his property; that he served in the Armed Constabulary Force from 1863 till 1877 as ensign, sub-inspector, and captain. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 10th June, 1887.

Authority: Geobge Didsbuuy, Government Printer, Wellington.—lBB7.