REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS, A TO L, COMMITTEE (MR. SEYMOUR, CHAIRMAN.)

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

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Sess. 11.—1887. NEW ZEALAND.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS, A TO L, COMMITTEE (MR. SEYMOUR, CHAIRMAN.)

Presented to the House of Bepresentatives, Session 11., 1887, and ordered to be printed.

INDEX.

No. Petitions. Page. No. Petitions. Page. A. Abbott, J., and Others .. Adams, W. Acton Agnew, William, and Others Akitio, Residents of, and Others Allom, A. J. Anderson, Allan Archer, H. G. .. Ayers, A., and Others E. 98 225 406 361 •26 *97 195 66 2 8 7 6 8 7 4 2 463 103 188 *176 300 236 Edmonds, S. J. Edmonds, S. J., and Others Eketahuna, Residents of Ell, George W. Ell, George W. Elwin, James J., and Others 9 2 3 10 10 6 58 100 F. 2 2 416 449 76 *167 41 303 30 64 272 273 357 *137 294 467 B. Baker, Horace Ball, Alfred Barber, H. G. .. Bauchop and Bitchie Baucke, Henry Bayly, Thomas, and Others Bennett, HenryBishop of Wellington .. Bloxam, A. R. Borrie, John, and Others Boulton, P. B. Brassey, G. N. Brunton, J. P. Brydone, Thomas, and Others 9 8 2 3 9 7 4 1 6 5 6 2 5 9 52 451 101 4 Farnall, H. W. Fergus, W., and Others Fishermen and Others (vide I.-2.) Flynn, Patrick Ford, John, and Others Forsman, J. H., and Others _ Fraser, Simon Fruitgrowers'and Others (vide I.-2.) 1 8 2 10 G. 2 55 359 11 450 425 504 457 495 17 Gane, G. W. Gas Consumers, Wellington (vide I.-2.) Gibbes, J., Murray Given, James and Mary Gold-miners of Otago (vide I.-2.) Goodwin, W. H., and Others Gower, Samuel, and Others Grace, John M. Grey, Sir G. Greytown Borough Council Guthrie, Caroline 6 5 8 9 11 8 10 1 c. 92 478 181 297 400 10 326 459 432 3 50 78 462 215 105 439 77 421 71 322 Cameron, Allan Cameron, Donald, and Others Carkeek, A. W. Carroll, W., and Others Carruthers, John J., and Others Carson, John AndrewCarter, Thomas (No. 1) .. Carter, Thomas (No. 2) .. Carterton Borough Council Caswell, John Clark, E. L. (No. 1) .. .'. .. Clark, B. L. (No. 2) Goad, James, and Others .. Coffey, Martin Francis Collins, S. Y., and Others Colvin, James, and Others Conley, J. Connell, James A. Coolahan, Catherine Cranwell, Garlick, and Others 4 10 4 6 6 3 7 9 7 2 4 3 9 6 2 7 2 8 7 5 7 33 361 13 486 82 60 H. Hallam, James, and Others Hamilton, Alexander McCausland Handyside, J. S., and Others Hannaford (No. 1) Hannaford, T. B. (Ho. 2) Hardy, George Hargreaves, Eliza Havelock, Inhabitants of (vide I.-2.) . Haylock, E., and Others Hayward, C. E. Henshaw, William Hepburn, Margaret Heuheu (vide I.-2.) Hilgendorf, Charles Hipkins, D., and Others Hogan, Joseph Home, W., and Others Huddleston, H. B. Hudson, John .. Hunter, J. D., and Others Hunter, W., and Others Hutt County Council (No. 1) Hutt County Council (No. 2) 1 1,3 6 1 10 4 8 151 237 458 21 2 4 8 5 39 1 D. 114 222 221 251 118 351 472 99 485 496 10 3 4 4 4 6 10 2 10 10 156 31 182 *48 29 405 53 Darnell, B. H. .. Davidson, J. Murray, and Another (vide I.-2.) Davis, H. B., and Others Davis, Richard De Clifton, H., and Others Dick, J. G. Drake, James, and Others Dunedin Chamber of Commerce .. Durkin, James 3 1 3 3 8 5 5 9 449 424 I. Ingles, A. W. and H. A. .. Invercargill South Borough Council Irwin, B., and Others 3 8 9 *Ses ;iou I.

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INDEX— continued.

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No. Petitions. Page. No. Petitions. Page. 96 '174 214 107 J. Jackson, T. M., and Others Johnstone, Emilia Jones, Edward Jones, W. S., and others 2 5 7 2 426 *167 R. Reid, James, and Others Ritchie, Bauchop and 9 3 K. Kay, E., and Others Kennerley, Elizabeth Kirk, W. J. (vide I.-2.) Krippner, Martin 475 424 251 236 s. Sawmillers and Others Seaclifi, Inhabitants of Neighbourhood of.. Seamen and Others Stoney River Lessees, Taranaki .. 10 9 i 6 97 229 2 6 350 6 475 273 T. Tairua, Sawmillers and Others of Te Aroha Deferred-payment Settlers 10 5 425 16 475 420 L. Lake County, Ratepayers of Leighton, Miles Lepine, George S. Lyon, Sophia .. .. ( .. Lysaght, James R., and Others (vide I.-2.) 9 5 10 8 7 66 u. Unemployed Unemployed 1 2 450 502 V. Village Settlers, Auckland .. Vincent, John .. 8 11 505 498 79 80 M. Masterton Borough Council McDonald, Juliet McDonald, Walter, and Others (No. 1) .. McDonald, Walter, and Others (No. 2) .. 10 11 1 1 29 488 433 419 462 467 189 64 466 439 w. Waikouaiti, Inhabitants of Waipu, Ratepayers of Wairarapa North County Council Wairarapa South County Council Waitara, Inhabitants of .. Waiwera South, Inhabitants of .. Warmoll, J., and Others.. Wellington, Bishop of Wellington Radical Reform Association .. Westport, Inhabitants of 151 N. Nelson Crown Tenants .. 2 3 10 7 7 9 9 3 1 9 7 405 507 497 o. Otago Dock Trust Outhwaite, W. E., and Others Oxford District, Residents in 5 11 10 418 457 P. Penn, Thomas, and Others Point Resolution Battery-site 7 3 506 497 Y. Yonge, Sarah, and Others Youngman, E. B., and Others 11 10 iesi don I.

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Sess. 11.—1887. NEW ZEALAND.

Presented to the House of Representatives, Session 11., 1887, and ordered to be printed.

No. 17. —Petition of Caeoline Gutheie. The petitioner states that she is unable, for want of funds, to appeal against the judgment which was given against her in an action brought by her against Charles Thomas Tatum. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee have no recommendation to make. Bth November, 1887.

No. 7. —Petition of James Hallam and Others. The petitioners, working-men of Christchurch, pray the House to consider the necessity of finding work for the " unemployed." I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. Bth November, 1887.

No. 13.—Petition of Thomas B. Hannafoed (No. 1). The petitioner invites the attention of the House to his invention of a beacon. I am directed to report that the Committee have no recommendation to make. Bth November, 1887.

Nos. 31 and 52.—Petitions of Eichaed Davis and Pateick Flynn. The petitioners state that they were formerly soldiers in the Imperial service, and that they served in Maori wars in New Zealand. They pray for grants of land. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Waste Lands Committee. Bth November, 1887.

No. 64.—Petition of the Bishop of Wellington. The petitioner prays for grants from the public funds in aid of denominational schools. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Education Committee. Bth November, 1887.

Nos. 79 and 80, and 81.—Petitions of Monsignor Waltee McDonald and Others and Thomas Cleaey and Others. The petitioners, Eoman Catholics, pray that their schools may be placed on an equality with the public schools of the colony. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Education Committee. Bth November, 1887.

No. 33. —Petition of Alexandee McCausland Hamilton. The petitioner states that in April, 1879, he, being in the service of the New Zealand Eailways Department, was injured while on duty by the negligence of an engine-driver, and consequently suffered amputation of his leg. That the sum of £50 was paid to him by the Government by way of compensation, which sum he considers to be inadequate. He prays for further consideration. I am directed to report that the Committee, being of opinion that the consideration of £50 already awarded to the petitioner is insufficient, recommends the Government to pay the petitioner a further sum of £50 in full satisfaction of all claims. 10th November, 1887.

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REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS, A TO L, COMMITTEE (ME. SEYMOUR, CHAIRMAN.)

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No. 39.—Petition of B. H. Darnell. The petitioner prays for revision of the 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 Native Affairs Committee. 10th November, 1887.

No. 55.—Petition of G. W. Gane. The petitioner states that in January, 1885, he purchased at auction from the Taranaki County Council, for £155, the right to collect the dog registration fee for the County of Taranaki; that in November, 1885, he obtained judgment in the Eesident Magistrate's Court against certain Natives for fines of ss. and costs, or seven days' imprisonment; that the fines and other penalties were afterwards remitted by the Government, whereby the petitioner suffered loss. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, any claim the petitioner may have is not against the Government, but against the County Council. 10th November, 1887.

No. 58.—Petition of H. W. Farnall. The petitioner prays that his deposit of £10, forfeited according to the provisions of " The Electoral Acts Amendment Act, 1887," may be returned to him. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the subject of this petition. 10th November, 1887.

No. 76.—Petition of H. G. Baebee. The petitioner states that he is improperly detained in the Auckland Lunatic Asylum, being of sound mind; and prays for his discharge. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 10th November, 1887.

No. -66.—Petition of A. Ayees and Others. The petitioners pray for the construction of four and a half miles of railway between Sumner and the Ferrymead Junction, on the Christchurch and Lyttelton Eailway, submitting that such a work is a desirable one in itself, and that its construction would be a proper measure of relief to the " unemployed " of the Christchurch District. I am instructed to report that the Committee recommend this work to the favourable consideration of the Government, the line to be constructed by the " unemployed," and by piece-work. 10th November, 1887.

Nos. 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 103, 105, and 107.—Petitions of T. M. Jackson and Others, E. Kay and Others, J. Abbott and Others, W. Hunter and Others, W. Fergus and Others, J. H. Forsman and Others, S. J. Edmonds and Others, S. Y. Collins and Others, and W. S. Jones and Others. The petitioners pray for the construction of a line of railway connecting the North Island Trunk Eailway with the Government West Coast Eailway at Stratford. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 10th November, 1887.

No. 151.—Petition of E. Haylock and Others. The petitioners, being tenants of the Crown in the Provincial District of Nelson, pray for amendment of certain clauses in their leases. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Waste Lands Committee. 10th November, 1887.

No. 3.—Petition of John Caswell. The petitioner, on his dismissal from the post of Warder in the Auckland Lunatic Asylum, signed an agreement to accept four months' pay "in full satisfaction of all claims." He received a cheque for £23 6s. Bd., being four months' wages at the rate of £70 a year. He claims a further payment of £17 in lieu of four months' board and lodging at the Asylum. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no further claim against the colony. 15th November, 1887.

No. 77.—Petition of J. Conley. The petitioner prays for compensation for loss of a boat, supposed to have been stolen by boys escaped from Kohimarama Industrial School. No. 137, Sess. I.—Petition of G. N. Brassey. The petitioner prays for payment of five guineas, alleged to have been awarded to him by arbitrators on a claim against the Postmaster-General.

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No. 48, Sbss. I.—Petition of J. G. Dick. The petitioner prays for further payments on account of a contract on the Otago Central Eailway. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitioners have no claim against the colony. 15th November, 1887.

No. 78.—Petition of E. L. Clakk (No. 2). The petitioner prays for amendment of the law relating to the committal of accused persons for trial. No. 156.—Petition of H. B. Davis and Others. The petitioner prays for amendment of " The Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1881," so that sweepstakes may be made legal. No. 189.—Petition of J. Wabmoll and Others. The petitioners pray for such amendment of the Auckland Harbour Acts as will give the Lake Takapuna District one representative on the Auckland Harbour Board. No. 222—Petition of D. Hipkins and Others. The petitioners pray for immediate revision of the Customs Tariff. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 15th November, 1887.

No. 167, Sess. I.—Petition of Bauchop and Eitchie. The petitioners pray for compensation for damage to their sawmill alleged to have been caused by water diverted upon their land by Government rail way-works. I am directed to report that the Committee sees no reason to depart from the decision of the Petitions Committee of 1885. 15th November, 1887. No. 182.—Petition of H. de Clifton and two Others. THe petitioners pray that the main street of Eketahuna may not be made any narrower than I am directed to report that, since a Bill dealing with the subject is now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 15th November, 1887.

No. 10.—Petition of John Andeew Caeson. The petitioner prays for compensation for removal from the post of Manager of the Burnham Industrial School. . . I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the services of the petitioner were dispensed with for sufficient reasons; and that, reviewing ail the circumstances of the case, the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 17th November, 1887.

No, 33, —Petition of Alexandeb McCausland Hamilton. (Second report.) The petitioner states that he has lost one of his legs in the service of the Eailway Department, and has received £50 as compensation. He prays for further consideration. I am directed to report that the Committee, on reconsidering this petition, sees no reason to depart from the decisions of the Public Petitions Committee of 1884 and 1885—namely, that, as the petitioner has given a receipt for £50 in full satisfaction of all claims, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 16th November, 1887.

No. 225.—Petition of W. Acton Adams. The petitioner prays for remission of fines for breaches of the Sheep Act. I am directed to report that the Committee deems it inadvisable to make any. recommendation on this petition until a further inspection of the petitioner's flock has been made after next shearing. 17th November, 1887.

No. 9.—Petition of A. W. Ingles and H. A. Ingles. The petitioners pray for remission of rent, and for compensation for loss alleged to have been suffered through the action of the Sheep Department. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the rent, amounting to £110 13s. 4d., already paid by the petitioners in 1887, should be refunded to them ; but that, with respect to their claim for compensation, the Committee is of opinion that the petitioners have no claim whatever against the colony. 18th November, 1887.

No. 29. —Petition of James Deake and Others. The petitioners pray for a grant of money for the purpose of improving Waikouaiti Harbour,

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I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for inquiry into the utility or necessity, and probable cost, of the works proposed by the petitioners. 18th November, 1887.

No. 30. —Petition of Heney Bennett. The petitioner prays for remission of £10 fine for breach of the Sheep Act. I am directed to report that the Committee, being satisfied that no wilful breach of the Act was intended, is of opinion that the fine of £10 should be remitted. 18th November, 1887.

No. 50.—Petition of E. L. Clabk (No. 1). The petitioner prays for a public inquiry into the conduct of the Judge and the Eegistrar of the Supreme Court, and the Official Assignee, at Auckland. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the subject of this petition. 18th November, 1887.

No. 92. —Petition of Allan Camekon. The petitioner states that he has been improperly refused a certificate as an authorised surveyor. No. 221.—Petition of Joseph Hogan. The petitioner prays for consideration on account of a wound received in the military service of the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the subject of these petitions. 18th November, 1887.

No. 82.—Petition of Geobge Haedy. The petitioner states that, after nineteen years' service in the Auckland Lunatic Asylum, he was compelled, by persecution on the part of Dr. Cremonini, the new Medical Superintendent, to resign his appointment. He prays for consideration. I am directed to report that the Committee, having inquired fully into the case, is of opinion that the petitioner's conduct after the appointment of Dr. Cremonini was not such as to entitle him to any consideration from the Government. 24th November, 1887.

No. 118.—Petition of H. B. Huddleston. The petitioner, an old surveyor, complains that " The Land Transfer Act, 1885," by invalidating his old license to practise as a surveyor, has deprived him of his professional income. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner refuses to comply with the requirements of the Survey Department, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 24th November, 1887.

No. 181. —Petition of A. W. Caekeek. The petitioner claims £31 10s. for fifteen days' attendance at a Land Court by order of Judge Symonds. I am directed to report that it appears to the Committee that the petitioner is equitably entitled to the payment of his claim. 24th November, 1887.

No. 195.—Petition of Lieutenant H. G. Aechee, E.N. The petitioner states that his services as an extra clerk in the Land Transfer Office at Auckland have been dispensed with, and prays that employment may be found for him. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on this petition. 24th November, 1887.

No. 237.—Petition of C. E. Haywaed. The petitioner claims consideration for service under the Provincial Government of Otago. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner, having received retiring-allowance for the whole time of his service under the General Government, has no claim for further compensation. 24th November, 1887.

No. 251.—Petition of W. Hoene and Others. The petitioners pray for special representation for seamen, and protest against the employment of coloured labour on board New Zealand ships, and against the admission of foreign vessels to New Zealand ports. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration, 24th November, 1887.

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No. 53.—Petition of James Duekin. The petitioner states that his services as Assistant Warder in the Prisons Service were dispensed with on the ground that he was to blame for the escape of a prisoner. He prays for compensation, on the ground that he had been relieved from duty at the time of the escape, and could not rightly he held responsible for it. . * I am directed to report that the Committee, having taken the evidence of Captain Hume, Inspector of Prisons, concurs in the opinion of the Committee of last session, that the petitioner's services were rightly dispensed with, and that the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 25th November, 1887.

No. 174, Session I.—Petition of Mrs. Emilia Johnstone. The petitioner prays for payment of £180, awarded to her by the Public Petitions Committee in 1884. I am directed to report that the Committee agrees with the opinion of the late Native Minister—" that the claim, is not one to be entertained by the Government." 25th November, 1887.

No. '273. —Petition of John Bobbie and Others. The petitioners state that their deferred-payment land near Te Aroha was described to them by the Government as good, whereas it turns out to be barren and bad. They pray for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 28th November, 1887.

No. 294.' —Petition of J. P. Beunton. The petitioner prays for a trial of the Vaile system oi railway management. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 28th November, 1887.

No. 322.—Petition of Messrs. Gaelics and Ceanwell and Others. The petitioners pray that in the construction of the North Island Trunk Eailway such deviation may be made as will connect the Government railway at Stratford. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 28th November, 1887.

No. 16. —Petition of Miles Leighton. The petitioner states that he was crippled in April, 1885, by injuries received in the military service of the colony, and is without means of subsistence. He prays for consideration and relief. I am directed to report that the Committee, having inquired into the case, and considered the report of the Defence Department, is of opinion that the petitioner is entitled to consideration ; and that the Government should be recommended to accept the proposal of the Auckland Hospital and Charitable Aid Board, which is ready to give the petitioner comfortable accommodation and proper attendance if the Government will guarantee a payment of £30 a year for his maintenance. 29th November, 1887.

No. 405. —Petition of the Dunedin Chambee of Commeeoe. The petitioners pray for the appointment of a Select Committee to inquire into the conduct of the Otago Dock Trust. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends this petition to the favourable consideration of the Government. 29th November, 1887.

No. 11.—Petition of James Given and Maey Given. The petitioners claim compensation for losses and legal expenses incurred by them in consequence of gross errors in the official survey of their land previous to the issue of the Crown grant. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioners are not entitled to any compensation. 30th November, 1887.

No. 21.—Petition of Mabgabet Hepburn. The petitioner states that she brought an action in the Eesident Magistrate's Court, at Auckland, against one Eichard Laishley, to recover half the cost of the boundary-fence between her land and his ; and that she was nonsuited on the technical objection that in the notice to fence served on Laishley her land was incorrectly described as Lot 8, whereas it ought to have been described as Lot Ba. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 30th November, 1887.

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No. 229.—Petition of Mrs. Elizabeth Kenneeley. The petitioner prays for consideration for her late husband's services in introducing settlers into the colony. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 30th November, 1887. .

No. 297. —Petition of W. Caeeoll and Others. The petitioners pray for relief from the burden of the New Plymouth Harbour-rate. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, this petition should be referred to the New Plymouth Harbour Committee. 30th November, 1887.

No. 350.—Petition of Maetin Kbippnee. The petitioner claims remuneration for introducing German settlers into New Zealand. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 30th November, 1887.

No. 357.—Petition of P. B. Boulton. The petitioner makes a claim for consideration for service under Provincial Government. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 30th November, 1887.

No. 361.—Petition of J. S. Handyside and Others. The petitioners pray for the erection of a telephone at Akitio. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th November, 1887.

No. 215.—Petition of Maetin Fbancis Coppey, of Hawera. The petitioner states that he was formerly a sergeant in the military service of the colony; that he was wounded at Ketemarae in 1866, and was for twelve months in receipt of a pension for his wounds ; that he afterwards returned to active service, and was finally discharged from the Armed Constabulary in 1881; that on his return to active service his pension ceased, and has not been renewed since his discharge; that his old wound is troubling him again and hindering him from earning his living. He prays that he may be reinstated in the enjoyment of his former pension. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. • 2nd December, 1887.

No. 236. —Petition of James J. Elwin and Others. The petitioners are lessees of Native lands in the Stony Eiver Block, Taranaki, and pray for relief from the burden of high rents. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 2nd December, 1887.

No. 359.—Petition of J. Muebay Gibbes, M.D., of New Plymouth. The petitioner prays that he may receive the decoration of the New Zealand Cross. I am directed to report that, a Eoyal Commission having been appointed to consider the question of awarding the New Zealand Cross, and the list having been closed, the Committee is not prepared to consider this petition. 2nd December, 1887.

No. 272. —Petition of A. E. Bloxam, Eegistrar of the Supreme Court at Christchurch. The petitioner complains that the compensation awarded to him for the loss of certain fees is insufficient, and prays for further consideration. I am directed to report that, since the petitioner has infringed the rules of the Service by petitioning Parliament on the subject of his pay and allowances whilst he is still a member of the Service, the Committee is not prepared to entertain his petition. 6th December, 1887.

No. 351.—Petition of John Hudson, of the Thames. The petitioner prays for a refund of excess of property-tax paid in past years on an estate held in trust for six beneficiaries. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the sums admitted by the Pro-perty-tax Commissioner to have been paid in excess should be refunded to the petitioner. 6th December, 1887.

No. 400.—Petition of John J. Caeeuthebs and Others. The petitioners pray for a grant of money towards the erection of a wharf at Turanga Creek, Franklin North.

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I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 6th December, 1887.

No. 97, Sess. I.—Petition of Allan Andeeson, of Masterton. The petitioner states that there is a balance still due to him for work done upon the Opaki Section of the Wellington and Napier Eailway, and prays that it may be paid to him. I am directed to adopt the report of the Public Petitions Committee of 1886 on this case— namely, "that, in the opinion of this Committee, the petitioner's claim has been fully satisfied by the Government." 7th December, 1887.

No. 71. —Petition of Mrs. Catheeinb Coolahan, of Parnell. The petitioner claims payment for a piece of land at Pokeno, alleged to have been improperly conveyed free to the Crown by her late husband's trustee in bankruptcy. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, any claim the petitioner may have is not against the colony, but against her late husband's trustee. 7th December, 1887.

No. 326.—Petition of Thomas Caetee, of Wellington (No. 1). The petitioner prays for payment of £29 175., alleged to have been withheld from his pay during the time of his service in the Torpedo Force. I am- directed to report that, since the Public Petitions Committee of the Legislative Council has examined the petitioner, and taken evidence and reported on his petition during the present session, this Committee declines to proceed with the consideration of this petition. 7th December, 1887.

No. 214.—Petition of Edwaed Jones, of Masterton. The petitioner alleges that he has been required by the Post Office to carry certain mails which were not included in his contract, and claims extra payment for such additional service. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim to any further payment. 9th December, 1887.

No. 303.—Petition of Thomas Bayly and Others. The petitioner prays for a subsidy to the steamship " Waitara." I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th December, 1887.

No. 406.—Petition of William Agnew and Others, of Dunedin. The petitioners allege that William Agnew and his wife have been unjustly imprisoned, and despoiled of their goods and land. They pray for restitution or other relief. I am directed to report that William Agnew has been treated with exceptional liberality on the recommendation of the Public Petitions Committee of 1885, and this Committee cannot recommend that he should receive any further consideration. 9th December, 1887.

No. 418.—Petition of Thomas Perm and other Inhabitants of the Stratford District The petitioners pray that, before any more contracts are let on the North Island Trunk Eailway, a survey may be made of the proposed Stratford route. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th December, 1887.

Nos. 419, 432, and 433. —Petitions of the Waieaeapa South County Council, Caeteeton Boeough Council, and Waieaeapa Noeth County Council. The petitioners pray for such amendment of " The Hospitals and Charitable Institutions Act, 1885," as that the Wairarapa District may be separated from its union with the Wellington District for charitable-aid purposes. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these three petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th December, 1887.

No. 439. —Petition of James Colvin, of Westport, and Others. The petitioners pray for the erection of a bridge over the Inangahua Eiver. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th December, 1887.

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No. 420.—Petition of Mrs. Sophia Lyon, of Auckland. The petitioner prays for consideration for the services of her late husband, Colonel Lyon. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the subject of this petition. 9th November, 1887.

No. 450. —Petition of W. H. Goodwin and Others., The petitioners are village settlers at Firewood Creek and Akatea in the Auckland District. They allege that they are in much distress for want of employment, and that Government has not redeemed its promise to give them partial employment on road-words. They pray for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th December, 1887.

No. 449.—Petition of Alfeed Ball, Town Clerk of South Invercargill. The petitioner complains that the Government, for want of legal power to hand over deferred-pay-ment thirds to any Borough Council, is retaining in the Treasury the accumulations of certain de-ferred-payment thirds which are equitably payable to the South Invercargill Borough Council for the purpose of making roads within the borough. He prays that Government may be empowered to pay over such thirds to Borough Councils and other local bodies, and not only, as at present, to County Councils. I am directed to report that, as the question involved in this petition is now under the consideration of the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 12th December, 1887.

No. 26, Sess. I.—Petition of A. J. Allom, of the Thames. The petitioner makes a claim for compensation for service under Provincial Government. I am directed to report that the petitioner has received retiring-allowance for the whole of his service under the General Government, and does not appear to the Committee to be entitled to any further payment. 14th December, 1887.

No. 60.—Petition of Mrs. Eliza Haegeeaves, of Parnell. The petitioner is the widow of John Hargreaves, who died suddenly of heart-disease in 1883, after being employed in the New Zealand Railway Service for nearly nine years. She states that he left her to provide for seven children—four of them not her own. She prays for consideration and relief. I am directed to adopt the report of the Public Petitions Committee of the 23rd July, 1886— namely, " that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner." ■ 14th December, 1887.

No. 421.—Petition of James A. Connell, of New Plymouth. The petitioner is patentee of a contrivance for unloading the upper compartments of sheep-trucks, and complains that the Railway Department is infringing his patent-rights by using this contrivance at Waitara Station without having paid him royalty. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 14th December, 1887.

No. 451.—Petition of John Fobd and Others. The petitioners pray that the new road between Waikaka and Kelso may be opened without delay. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 14th December, 1887.

No. 457.—Petition of Sir Geoege Geey, K.C.B. The petitioner states that the Government took, for defence purposes, the whole of an estate of over four acres at Point Resolution, belonging to the St. Stephen's Orphanage Trust, and let by the trustees on lease ; that only three-quarters of an acre was eventually used for defence purposes; and that the remainder of the land, instead of being restored, as the law directs, to the trustees, was unlawfully conveyed to the lessee. The petitioner prays that the Government will make inquiry and restitution. I am directed to report as follows : The evidence before the Committee appears to show that the Government, by arrangement with the lessee, took a larger area of land than was actually needed for defence purposes, and that the balance not wanted was conveyed to the lessee, whereby the trust lost the whole of the property, receiving in compensation the sum of £632. The Committee is therefore of opinion that the Government should inquire further into the case, with the view of restoring the trust, if possible, to the position it would, have occupied if the Government had taken only so much of the land as was absolutely necessary for defence purposes. 14th December, 1887.

No. 458.—Petition of William Henshaw, of Wellington. The petitioner states that an auctioneer's license was granted to Mr. N. J. Isaacs in April, 1887, and transferred by Mr. Isaacs to the petitioner by indorsement in October, 1887, with the consent of

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the City Council. Trusting in the validity of such transfer, the petitioner, on two occasions, sold goods by public auction, and was thereupon accused and convicted in the Eesident Magistrate's Court of unlawfully selling by auction, and was fined £100 for each offence. He submits that no wilful breach of the Auctioneers Ordinance was intended, and prays that the fines may be remitted. I am directed to recommend that this petition be referred to the Government for further inquiry. If, on such inquiry, the petitioner's allegations be substantiated, the Committee is of opinion that he is entitled to favourable consideration. 14th December, 1887. '

No. 416.—Petition of Hobace Bakbb, of Napier. The petitioner complains that he was discharged from the Civil Service of the colony without proper notice, and witout the usual consideration of three months' salary in lieu of such notice. He prays for inquiry and compensation. I am directed to adopt the report of the Public Petitions Committee of the 2nd June, 1887, on this case —namely, " 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." The Committee further recommends that, in the dismissal of officers from the public service, no allowances should be granted to them beyond those that are provided by law. 16th December, 1887.

No. 424. —Petition of B. Ibwin and Others. The petitioners are settlers in the neighbourhood of Seacliff, and object to the appointment of Mr. John Christie to be bailiff at the Seacliff Asylum. I am directed to report that as this matter seems to come within the scope of the Royal Commission recently appointed to deal with the affairs of Seacliff Asylum, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 16th December, 1887.

Nos. 425 and 426.—Petitions of Samuel Gowbb and Others, and James Reid and Othebs. The petitioners are ratepayers of Lake County, and pray that proceedings may be stayed in the action taken by the Auditor-General against the County Councillors for misappropriation of county funds. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend any interference with the forthcoming proceedings in the Court of Appeal. 16th December, 1887.

No. 459.—Petition of Thomas Cabteb, of Wellington (No. 2). The petitioners pray that certain persons may be summoned to give evidence on his claim for further payment for his services in the Torpedo Force. I am directed to report that the Committee declines to make any addition to the report on this case brought up 7th December, 1887. 16th December, 1887.

No. 462.—Petitions of James Coad and Others, of Waitara. The petitioners pray for the construction of a road from Mimi to Taumaranui. No." 466. —Petition of the Wellington Radical Refobm Association. The petitioners pray for amendment of the Electoral Acts. No. 467. —Petition of Thomas Beydone and Others. The petitioners pray for the establishment of telephonic communication at Waiwera South. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these three petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 16th December, 1887.

No. 463. —Petition of S. J. Edmonds, of Auckland. The petitioner prays for compensation for the destruction of the cutter " Kate " by rebel Natives at Whakatane in 1865. I am directed to adopt the report of the Public Petitions Committee of 1878 on this claim— namely, "that the Committee is of opinion that fair compensation should be given for direct loss occasioned by the act of rebel Natives, and that the matter should be inquired into by the Government with a view to some settlement of such claims; but with respect to this special case the Committee has no opinion to offer to the House." 16th December, 1887.

No. 41.—Petition of Henby Baucke, of Wellington. The petitioner complains that a sum of money awarded to him by the Public Petitions Committee in 1867 has never been paid to him. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the money in question was properly paid to Mr. Cameron, of Auckland ; and that the petitioner has therefore no claim against the ■colony. 16th December, 1887.

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No. 475. —Petition of Geoege S. Lepine, of Tairua, and Others. The petitioners are sawmillers and other timber-workers in the Auckland District, and pray that an export duty may be imposed on kauri timber in baulk. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the subject of this petition deserves the serious consideration of the Government. 16th December, 1887.

No. 478.—Petition of Donald Cameeon and Others. The petitioners pray for the extension of the Forest Hill Tramway to Hedgehope. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 16th December, 1887.

No. 4.—Petition of Simon Fbaseb, of Newton. The petitioner alleges that a Select Committee of the Provincial Council of Otago, in 1864, recognised and admitted his claim to a reward of £1,500 for the discovery of the West Taieri Goldfield, of which sum he has received as yet only £30 on account. He prays for payment of the balance, or for other suitable consideration. I am directed to recommend that, as there is not time enough for the Committee to inquire fully into the petitioner's claim so late in the present session, consideration of this petition should be deferred till next session. 21st December, 1887.

No. 114. —Petition of Chaeles Hilgendobf, of Dunedin. The petitioner prays for the repayment of £50 deposited on tendering for the Mount Hyde Contract on the Otago Central Eailway, and forfeited by his refusal to proceed with the contract on the acceptance of his tender by the Public Works Department. I am directed to report that the Committee is not prepared to recommend the prayer of the petitioner. 21st December, 1887.

Nos. 176, Sess. 1., and 300, Sess. ll.—Petitions of Geoege W. Ell, of Christchurch. The petitioner alleges that the Eegistrar of the Supreme Court, the Official Assignee, and a number of solicitors, all of Christchurch, are acting in league to defraud him of certain large sums of money due to him. He prays for inquiry and redress. I am directed to recommend that, as the time at the disposal of the Committee will not admit of a full inquiry into the petitioner's case, the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 21st December, 1887.

No. 472. —Petition of J. D. Huntee and Others. The petitioners pray that a flag-station may be established at East Gore, on the Dunedin and Invercargill Eailway. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 21st December, 1887.

No. 485.—Petition of the Hutt County Counozl (No. 1). The petitioners pray for amendment of the Slaughterhouses Act 1877 Amendment Bill. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 21st December, 1887.

No. 486.—Petition of T. B. Hannafoed, of Auckland (No. 2). The petitioner alleges that he has been wrongfully convicted of assaulting one W. G. Garrard, and imprisoned for fourteen days' with hard labour. He prays for inquiry and redress. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on this petition. 21st December, 1887.

Nos. 495, 496, and 505.—Petitions of the Gbeytown Boeough Council, Hutt Copnty Council (No. 2), and Masteeton Boeough Council. The petitioners pray for separation of their districts from their present union with the Wellington district for charitable-aid purposes. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these three petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 21st December, 1887.

No. 497. —Petition of E. B. Youngman and other Eesidents in the Oxford District. The petitioners pray for reduction of the railway freight on firewood. No. 488.—Petition of Seventy-one Eatepayees of Waipu, Whangarei, Auckland. The petitioners pray for amendment of the Counties Act.

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I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these two petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 21st December, 1887.

No. 498.—Petition of Juliet McDonald, of Kaiapoi. The petitioner prays for compensation for loss of office as Nurse in the Sunnyside Asylum, at Christchurch. No. 502.—Petition of John Vincent, of Greymouth. The petitioner prays for compensation for loss of his foot by negligence of Government employ6s on Greymouth Wharf. I am directed to recommend that, as the Committee cannot inquire fully into the merits these cases so near the end of the present session, consideration of these two petitions should be deferred till next session. 21st December, 1887.

No. 504.—Petition of John M. Gkace, of Auckland. The petitioner states that he is the son and heir-at-law of the late Peter Grace, of Auckland, who, in 1865, contracted to construct a section of the Auckland and Drury Eailway; that in 1866 the Provincial Government seized the contract and the plant, paying the contractor £3,600, and taking from him a receipt in full. He now claims £3,078 2s. as due by the Provincial Government to his late father. I am directed to adopt the reports of the Public Petitions Committees of 1884, 1885, and 1886— namely, " that, as this claim has been considered by two Committees of the Auckland Provincial Council, and as the circumstances took place more than twenty years ago, and as no further evidence has been produced than was before those two Committees, this Committee is not prepared to make any recommendation on the present petition." 21st December, 1887.

Nos. 506 and 507. —Petitions of Sabah Tonge and Others and of W. E. Outhwaite and Others, of Auckland. The petitioners pray that the police may be restrained from taking action against the manufacturers of so-called temperance beverages. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these two petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 21st December, 1887.

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