REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS M TO Z COMMITTEE. (MR. T. THOMPSON, CHAIRMAN.)

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1887 Session II, I-02

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Sess. 11.—1887. NEW ZEALAND.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS M TO Z COMMITTEE. (MR. T. THOMPSON, CHAIRMAN.)

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

INDEX.

No. Petitions. Page. No. Petitions. Page. 393 14 372 395 B. Blundell, Hurndall and, and Others c. Cook County, Settlers in D. Davidson, J. Murray, and Another E. Earle and Montgomery and Others 8 7 324 2 45 343 128 143 392 366 145 122 23 *81 134 148 198 395 18 293 102 250 McDonell, E., and Others McDonnell, Lieut.-Colonel McGregor, D. U., and Others McKay, J. M., and Others McKenzie County Council McKenzie, Thomas, and Others McKrures, H., and Others McLeod, J., and Others McNamara, L., and Others Meek, James McKain Meikle, John Miller, David Mills, Thomas Mimiha, Hoera te Mokoreta, Settlers of Montgomery, Earle and, and Others Morley, John Morrison, Samuel Murchie, M., and Others Murray, J. B., and Others .. > .. 7 3 1 7 2 6 8 7 4 1 5 6 5 4 4 8 3 8 1 5 91 140 44 P. Fishermen and Others Fleming, Jubal, and Others Fruitgrowers and Others 4 2 0 40 45 G. Gas-consumers of Wellington Gold-miners of Otago 9 1 143 231 393 H. Havelock, Inhabitants of Heuheu Tukino and Others Hurndall and Blundell and Others 6 5 8 N. Neilson, Christiana Nelson Crown Tenants (vide I.-l.) Nicholls, S. W., and Others Nodder, A. S., and Others Nutter, F. A., and Others 1 38 429 I. Inangahua, Inhabitants of 371 193 106 10 4 1 10 456 K. 10 o. O'Connell, E. S., and Others Ogilvie, W., and Others Otago Dock Trust (vide I.-l.) Outhwaite, W. E., and Others (vide I.-l.) Oxford District, Residents in (vide I.-l.) 407 Kirk, W. J. L. Lysaght, James R., and Others .. 10 370 391 7 8 68 342 276 323 270 276 73 63 40 M. Macdonald, Janet, and Charles P. Mack, Charles Maoklow, W. C, and Others Macky, J. C, and Others Madigan, Elizabeth A. .. Mahurangi, Settlers of .. Mann, Jonathan Martin, Reuben Maskell, W. M., and Others Masterton Borough Council (vide I.-l.) Masterton, Inhabitants of Mathison, George and William Maxwell, James McCaul, Dorothy Susan McCormick, James McCroy, Patrick McDonald, Juliet (vide I.-l.) McDonald, Walter, and Others (vide I.-l.) 7 9 5 7 5 5 8 5 9 295 386 309 223 470 456 P. Parlane, James, and Others Parua Bay, Settlers of .. Patterson, Thomas Pavitt, Edward, and Others Penn, Thomas, and Others (vide I.-l.) Perry, B. P., and Others Pitone Town Board, Chairman of Point Resolution Battery-site (vide I.-l.) Poison, D. G., and Others Porter, T. W., and Others Price, Henry Prince, Walter, and Others 7 8 9 4 10 10 470 249 '138 15 116 473 10 6,8 3 1 1 10 310 14 274 429 7 7 6 10 Quinn, Edward, and Others 4 147 * Session I.

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No. Petitions. Page. No. Petitions. Page. 468 104 327 R. Reid, James, and Others (vide I.-l.) Reid, William Rhodes, G. E., and Others Riley, William Ritchie, Bauchop and (vide I.-l.) Robertson, Ann Ross, George, and Others 10 1 9 61 434 231 193 193 437 Tronson, P. H. .. Tuck, John, and Others Tukino, Te Heuheu, and Others u. Unemployed (vide also I.-l.) Unemployed Unemployed 2 9 5 4 4 10 299 386 9 8 391, &c. 135 197 88 20 *19 277 42 192 196 484 69 s. Sarten, L., and Others .. Sawmillers and Others (vide I.-l.) Seacliff, Inhabitants of Neighbourhood of (vide I.-l.) Seamen and Others (vide I.-l.) - Shopkeepers of Auckland Sinclair, James, and Others Singer, William, and Others Smart, Joseph Smith, F. Seth Smythies, H. W. Spalding, Stephen Spreat, W.W.J. Stanley, D., and Others Stephenson, Samuel Stephenson, William Stony River Lessees (vide I.-l.) Strachan, J. K. Symonds, Alithea Seymour 8 2 6 4 3 2 6 7 4 4 10 135 343 305 43 V. Vaile, Samuel Village Settlers, Auckland (vide I.-l.) Vincent, John (vide I.-l.) Voakes, John .. w. Waikouaiti, Inhabitants of (vide I.-l.) Waimate, Settlers of Waipu and Whangarni Heads, Settlers at Waipu, Ratepayers of (vide I.-l.) Wairarapa North County Council (vide I.-l.) Wairarapa South County Council (vide I.-l.) Waitara, Inhabitants of (vide I.-l.) Waitotara, Inhabitants of Waiwera South, Inhabitants of (vide I.-l.) Wakeham, William Henry Warmoll, J., and Others (vide I.-l.) Warner, W. F., and Others Warnock, John, and Others Wellington, Bishop of (vide I.-l.) Wellington Radical Reform Association (vide I.-l.) Westport, Inhabitants of (vide I.-l.) Whiting. John, and Others Wilkinson, W. F. Willeston, Charles, and Others Williams, Edward Marsh Williams, Joseph, and Others Williamson, H. E., and Others Willmer, George Woodward, H. J., and Others Wyndham, Inhabitants of 7 3 2 7 5 250 74 5 227 368 4 8 292 394 6 8 367 44 146 367 148 228 44 186 437 149 329 69 139, &c. T. Tairua, Sawmillers and Others of (vide I.-l.) Tamaki West, Inhabitants of Tamblyn, John, and Others Tareranui, Haora, and Others Taylor, W. Innes, and Others Te Aroha Deferred-Payment Settlers (vide I.-l.) Te Mimiha, Hoera Templeton, John, and Others Teviot and Clyde, Inhabitants of .. Thompson, George Thompson, P., and Others Thornden, John, and Others Thwaites, Thomas G. Tikorangi and other Districts, Settlers of .. I Tobacconists 4 5 7 4 10 2 9 3 7 6 4 7 91 *98 141 *1 321 140 90 198 228 4 3 2 2,6 7 2 8 4 4 Y. Yonge, Sarah, and Others (vide I.-l.) Young, James Youngman, E. B., and Others (vide I.-l.) 1 2 75 * Session I.

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Sess. 11.—1887. NEW ZEALAND.

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

No. 38, Sess. ll.—Petition of Christiana Neilson. The petitioner prays that she may be given a grant of land on account of her late husband's military services. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Waste Lands Committee. 9th November, 1887.

No. 45, Sess. ll.—Petition of D. TJ. McGregor and Others. The petitioners, gold-miners, of Bannockburn, Otago, pray that the gold-duty may be abolished. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Goldfields Committee. 9th November, 1887.

No. 75, Sess. ll.—Petition of James Young, Auckland. The petitioner, late a Warder in the Auckland gaols, states that he was discharged owing to illhealth, and received compensation. He prays for further consideration. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. 9th November, 1887.

No. 116, Sess. ll.—Petition of James McCormick, of Te Aroha. The petitioner, a settler under the perpetual-leasing system, prays that he may be granted similar privileges to the village settlers. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Waste Lands Committee. 9th November, 1887.

No. 122, Sess. ll.—Petition of James McKain Meek. The petitioner states that he has executed a work of art entitled " Zealandia's Jubilee Souvenir; " that said work contains a vast amount of valuable information, and if copies of the same were spread over the colony it would result in great benefit to New Zealand. He prays that the sum of £100 may be granted to him, in order that he may be able to carry out his ideas on the subject. I am directed to report that this Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th November, 1887.

No. 15, Sess. ll.—Petition of Dorothy Susan McCaul, of Waikomiti. The petitioner states that she is the owner of land at Waikomiti intersected by the Auckland and Kaipara Eailway ; that ever since the opening of the railway fires have been caused by sparks from the engines, from which she has suffered considerable loss of fruit-trees and hay from time to time, amounting in the aggregate to £300 at least. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the favourable consideration of the Government. 10th November, 1887. '

Nos. 102, 104, and 106, Sess. ll.—Petitions of M. Murchie and Others, of G. E. Ehodes and Others, and of P. A. Nutter and Others. The petitioners, inhabitants of Auckland, pray that, in the construction of the North Island Trunk Eailway, such deviation may be made as will connect with the Government railway system on the west coast of the North Island at Stratford.

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REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS M TO Z COMMITTEE. (MR. T. THOMPSON, CHAIRMAN.)

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I am directed to report that, as the prayer of these petitioners opens up a large question of public policy and is entirely outside the functions of this Committee, it has no recommendation to make. 10th November, 1887.

No. 128, Sess. ll.—Petition of the McKenzie County Council. The petitioners state that, in the session of 1886, 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 a 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, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 10th November, 1887.

No. 135, Sess. ll.—Petition of James Sinclair and Others, of Waimate. The petitioners pray that the County and Borough of Waimate may be created a separate district under the Hospitals and Charitable Institutions Act. I am directed to report that, a Bill being now before the House proposing to deal with this question, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 10th November, 1887.

Nos. 139, 140, and 141, Sess. ll.—Petitions of H. E. Williamson and Others, Auckland; of Jubal Fleming and Others, Christchurch ; and of Charles Willeston and Others, Wellington. The petitioners allege that tobacco, cigars, and cigarettes are extensively smuggled into New Zealand, and sold at prices less than the duty payable; that this is prejudicial to the business of your petitioners, who pay duty on such commodities. They pray that tobacconists may be licensed in the same way that auctioneers are at present. That the license-fee for the sale of tobacco and cigarettes be £10 per annum, and £5 for the sale of cigars. 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. 149, Sess. ll.—Petition of John Thornden and Others, of Canterbury. The petitioners pray that Mrs. Ann Eoil, who is confined in the hospital for insane at Sunny side, may be released. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioners. 10th November, 1887.

No. 1, Sess. II. —Petition of Edward Marsh Williams, of Auckland. The petitioner states that in 1861 he was appointed Eesident Magistrate for the Bay of Islands, and held that position until March, 1880, when he was requested to retire, on the ground of economy ; that he was allowed a pension of £135 ; that in April, 1881, he was reappointed to the Civil Service as Judge of the Native Land Court, at a salary of £600, and his services were dispensed with in March, 1887 ; that his pension was not paid while he was serving as Judge ; that, on his retirement, he made an application for his pension to be recomputed under section 18, " Civil Service Act, 1866," in order that his last period of service might be considered as continuous with the former one ; that he was informed his pension had remained in abeyance during his second period of service, and now reverted to its original rate; that he was not informed at the time of his appointment that such appointment was under any special terms, and would exclude him from the benefits of section 18 ; that the interruption of twelve months in his service, viz., from April, 1880, to April, 1881, was forced upon him; and that, according to the usual computation, his retiringallowance should be £250 per annum. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. 11th November, 1887.

No. 19, Sess. I.—Petition of H. W. Smythies, of Auckland. The petitioner states that in 1866 he gave up his occupation as a surveyor in order to enter into articles of clerkship with his father, who was a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court; that he served as articled clerk until 1869, when his father was suspended from practising under "The Law Practitioners Act Amendment Act, 1866;" that he is advised that no part of the time spent under articles will be considered as legally served. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. 15th November, 1887.

No. 61, Sess. ll.—Petition of F. H. Tronson, of Wellington. The petitioner states that he was appointed as a draughtsman in the Public Works Department in 1875, and transferred to the Survey Department in 1877 ; that his services were dispensed with in 1887, on account of reductions in the department; that, on receiving notice that his services would be dispensed with, he applied for a month's leave of absence, which was refused. That officers

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leaving the Government service since he did, and serving in departments under the same Minister, have been granted three months' leave of absence. He prays that he may be granted three months' pay in lieu of leave, or other relief. „„;-,„+ I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. 15th November, 1887.

No. 43, Sess. ll.—Petition of John Voakes, of Warkworth. The petitioner states that in 1867 he selected apiece of land (46 acres,in the Parish of Korowhero and his name was written on the selection-map of the district, m the Crown Lands Office, Auckland, across the said piece of land ; that he was unable, through poverty, to have the land surveyed and has lately discovered that it has been wrongfully sold by the Government. That in 1886 Mr. Ballance (the then Minister of Lands) admitted that petitioner's land had been wrongfully sold, and offered land of equal value, which would be about £200 or £250. That petitioner has not received either ' i n am°directed'to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 15th November, 1887.

No. 2, Sess. ll.—Petition of Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, N.Z.C. The petitioner prays that he may be placed on an equal footing with other recipients of the New Zealand Cross, and his pension paid from the date of the Order in Council creating the same. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, although the petitioner has a basis of precedent, it is one which it cannot recognise, and therefore it cannot recommend the prayer of the petition. 17th November, 1887.

No. 138, Sess. I.—Petition of James Maxwell, of Hokianga. The petitioner prays for consideration on account of a certain block of land taken by the Governin _ am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Native Affairs Committee. 9th November, 1887.

No. 98, Sess. I.—Petition of W. P. Wilkinson, of Hokitika. The petitioner states that he was employed by the Government in keeping the books &c. of the Kumara Water-race and Sludge-channel at a salary, of 10s. per day of eight hours, but said work necessitated his working overtime, but he was unable to obtain any payment for such extra time; that he commenced an action against the Government for the value of the overtime, and, although he immediately withdrew it, he was peremptorily dismissed. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. 9th November, 1887.

No. 18, Sess. ll.—Petition of John Morley, of Oamaru. The petitioner states that he worked as a platelayer on the New Zealand railways from April 1879 until June 1886; that in the latter month he met with an accident, while m the execution of his duty whereby he lost his foot; that he has since received three months' half-pay, three months ouarter-pay, and £10 from the department; that the accident was caused by the use of a defective appliance attached to a trolly and called a " spindle ; " that the use of such appliances has since been condemned by the Eailway Department. He prays for further monetary relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the favourable consideration of the Government. 17th November, 1887. ___

No. 20.—Petition of F. Seth Smith and Others. The petitioners state that they have read the petition of John Morley to the House, and are satisfied that the statements made therein are correct. They pray that some relief may be granted t0 h Tam directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 17th November, 1887. .

No. 69, Sess. ll.—Petition of L. Sarten and Others, of Tikorangi. The petitioners, settlers in Tikorangi, Huirangi, and contiguous districts, pray for the erection of a bridge across the Waitara Eiver. _■ __' * t I am directed to report that, as the petitioners have the power, under the Government Loans to Local Bodies Act, to obtain the necessary funds for the erection of the desired bridge, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th November, 1887.

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Nos. 145, 146, and 147, Sess. ll.—Petitions of L. McNamara and Others, of Haora Tareranui and Others, and of Edward Quinn and Others. The petitioners pray that steps may be taken to allow Hoera te Mimiha and Hone Koroneho, at present confined in Mount Eden Gaol, to show their innocence. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government. 17th November, 1887.

No. 148, Sess. ll.—Petition of Hoera te Mimiha. The petitioner, a prisoner in Mount Eden Gaol, prays for a rehearing of his case, in order that he may be able to prove his innocence. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 17th November, 1887.

Nos. 192 and 193, Sess. ll.—Petitions of D. Stanley and Others and of A. S. Nodder and Others. The petitioners, unemployed inhabitants of Auckland, pray that the House will cause some necessary or reproductive works to be done in the Auckland Province, in order to alleviate their present dire distress. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the favourable consideration of the Government. 17th November, 1887.

No. 196, Sess. II. —Petition of Samuel Stephenson, of Auckland. The petitioner prays that the Licensing Act may be amended, and that he may be examined by the Public Petitions Committee with regard to the same. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th November, 1887.

No. 223, Sess. ll.—Petition of Edward Pavitt and Others, of Christchurch. The petitioners pray that the tariff may be revised during the present session. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of this petition is now under the consideration of the Government, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th November, 1887.

No. 91, Sess. ll.—Petition of John Whiting and Others. The petitioners, fishermen and residents of Wanganui and Wellington, pray for certain amendments to be made in " The Fisheries Conservation Act, 1884." I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 18th November, 1887.

No. 186, Sess. II. —Petition of George Thompson, of Waikato. The petitioner alleges that his two children were improperly committed to an industrial school, and prays for an inquiry. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 18th November, 1887.

No. 198, Sess. ll.—Petition of H. J. Woodward and Others, of Mokoreta, Southland. The petitioners state that they purchased land under the control of the Otago School Commissioners when land was valued at a high upset price ; that they are now unable to meet their liabilities to the Board of Governors and School Commissioners. They pray that such amendments may be made in " The Public Bodies' Leaseholds Act, 1886," as will allow the price of the land to be reduced; that a Eoyal Commission may be appointed to revalue the land; or for other relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 18th November, 1887.

No. 88, Sess. ll.—Petition of Joseph Smart, of Lyttelton. The petitioner states that, while in the employ of the Eailway Department, on the Bth August, 1887, he sustained a serious injury to his foot through no fault of his own, which has disabled him from following his ordinary employment. He prays that employment may be provided to suit his disabled state. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 22nd November, 1887.

No. 227, Sess. II. —Petition of J. K. Strachan, of Wanganui. The petitioner states that, on 30th June, 1886, he paid a bottler's license-fee of £20, and that, immediately after said payment, the Act under which it was made was repealed. He alleges that the Borough Council of Wanganui are willing to return the money to him if they can legally do so. He prays that power may be given to the said Council to refund the money. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 22nd November, 1887,

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No. 228, Sess. ll.—Petition of John Templeton and Others, of Wyndham, The petitioners pray that the Mortgage Act may be amended. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 22nd November, 1887.

No. 231, Sess. ll.—Petition of Te Heuheu Tukino and Others. The petitioners state that they have seen a notice of the proposed resolution by Mr. Carroll, M.H.E., suggesting that there should be only one law both for. the Maoris and Europeans. They pray that the House may not pass the resolution proposed by Mr. Carroll. I am directed to report that, as a motion is now on the Order Paper proposing to deal with the subject of this petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make, but would refer the petition to the Government for consideration. 22nd November, 1887.

No. 250, Sess. ll.—Petition of J. B. Murray and Others, of Waitotara. The petitioners pray that the Wanganui Harbour Eating Bill may not be passed. I am directed to report that, as the said Bill is now before the House, this Committee has no recommendation to make. 22nd November, 1887.

No. 276, Sess. ll.—Petition of W. C. Macklow and Others, of Mahurangi. The petitioners state that they are three brothers, each of whom has an equal and independent interest in certain property, which they hold under deed and by will, but prefer to work the land jointly. That they each claimed a £500 exemption under the Property Assessment Act, but the Commissioner only allowed one on the whole property. They pray for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 22nd November, 1887.

No. 23, Sess. II. —Petition of John Meikle, of Tuturau, Southland. The petitioner states that he has been wrongfully convicted and imprisoned, and that while in prison he was treated in a most unjustifiable manner, from the effects of which he still suffers. He prays for an inquiry into his case, and also for relief on account of the hardship and injury he has sustained. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 23rd November, 1887.

No. 63, Sess. ll.—Petition of Eeuben Martin. The petitioner states that he is a settler on land adjoining the Helensville and Kaipara Eailwayline; that, in order to prevent his stock being killed, he has had to put up fencing at a cost of £70. He prays that the Government will cause the said fence to be inspected, and grant the cost thereof. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 23rd November, 1887.

No. 74, Sess. ll.—Petition of William Henry Wakeham, of Auckland. The petitioner states that, while in prison awaiting trial, he was placed in a cell with a madman, whom he and other prisoners had to tie down in the middle of the night with his own blankets. He alleges that he was not allowed to hold conversation with his child, was deprived of the privilege of seeing a visitor, compelled to work when suffering actual pain, reported for offences he d.id not commit, kept in gaol fourteen days longer than the allotted time through sickness, and did not receive the whole of his property when he was let out. He prays for a public inquiry into his grievances. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the Government to request the Visiting Justices to inquire into the statements made in the petition. 23rd November, 1887.

No. 270, Sess. ll.—Petition of Elizabeth A. Madigan. The petitioner states that her husband, who served in the gaol department as warder for ten years, was, on the Bth November, 1885, while attempting to prevent the escape of a prisoner, so severely injured as to have permanently incapacitated him from work. The petitioner prays that permanent provision may be made for her husband, in order to enable him to assist in maintaining their six children. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 23rd December, 1887.

No. 134, Sess. ll.—Petition of Thomas Mills, of Auckland. The petitioner states that he served in the Eailway Department for more than ten years ; that he received an injury to his foot while in the performance of his duties; that when partially recovered he was appointed head storekeeper of a goods-shed ; that he was suspended in January, 1886 ; that in 1884, while he was acting as porter at the Te Awamatu Eailway-station, he had to build a house for himself—costing £90; that the site of said house belonged to the department, who gave him leave to build there; that when he was transferred the department only allowed him £5 15s. for

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the said house; that he was compelled, through necessity, to accept this small sum. He prays that he may be reinstated in his former positions or given fair compensation for his house. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 23rd November, 1887.

No. 1, Sess. ll.—Petition of Edward Marsh Williams, of Auckland. (Second Eeport.) This petition was referred back to the Committee by the House on the 15th November, in order that further evidence might be taken. I am directed to report that, after having taken the evidence of the petitioner (who was represented by counsel) and the Under-Secretary of the Native Department, the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 25th November, 1887.

No. 274, Sess. ll.—Petition of Henry Price, of Dunedin. The petitioner states that he has been in the service of the Eailway Department for the past eight years; that he is a widower with four young children; that unmarried men are being employed by the department, while his services have been dispensed with. He prays that he may be reinstated in his former position. I am directed to report that the Commmittee has no recommendation to make. 25th November, 1887.

No. 277, Sess. ll.—Petition of Stephen Spalding. The petitioner, an inmate of the Auckland Lunatic Asylum, states that in 1886 he was tried on a charge of arson, but was found to be insane, and sent to the Asylum. That his aberration of intellect was caused by his losing his daughter, who was killed by the railway at Penrose Station. He prays for an inquiry under the Lunacy Act, and also that he may be transferred to Mount Eden Gaol. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 25th November, 1887.

No. 81, Sess. I.—Petition of David Miller, of Auckland. The petitioner states that he supplied groceries to the Government Telegraph Department in 1872 on the order of one of its officers ; that a balance of the account still remains unpaid. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 25th November, 1887.

No. 44, Sess. ll.—Petition of John Tamblyn and Others, of Teviot and Clyde. The petitioners pray that the fruit-growing industry may-be encouraged by a duty being imposed on imported fruit and fruit-pulp. 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. 143, Sess. ll.—Petition of Thomas McKenzie and Others, of Havelock. The petitioners pray that " The Havelock Commonage Act, 1877," may be so amended as to make the trustees an elective body. 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. 197, Sess. ll.—Petition of William Singer, of Kaiwaiwai. The petitioner states that he has been a head-teacher in the public schools of the colony for more than thirty-five years, of which thirty years have been in Government schools; that he is now unable to discharge his duties through failing sight. He prays for a small annuity in consideration of long service and present necessity. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 28th November, 1887.

No. 249, Sess. ll.—Petition of George and William Mathison. The petitioners, contractors, of Dunedin, pray that the sum of £2,292 15s. may be paid to them in connection with certain work performed by them on the Hindon Contract of the Otago Central Eailway, or that an inquiry may be granted before an impartial tribunal in Dunedin. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th November, 1887.

No. 292, Sess. ll.—Petition of W. F. Warner and Others. The petitioners pray that " The Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1881," may be amended in the direction of legalising sweepstakes or consultations under certain conditions. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th November, 1887.

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No. 305, Sess. ll.—Petition of Samuel Vaile. The petitioner prays that no Eailway Board may be appointed until his proposed system has had a No. 343, Sess. ll.—Petition of J. M. McKay and Others. The petitioners, settlers of Waipu and Whangarei Heads, pray for telephonic communication. No. 321, Sess. ll.—Petition of Joseph Williams and Others. The petitioners pray that, in the construction of the North Island Trunk Eailway, such deviation may be made as will connect with the Government line at Stratford. Nos. 323 and 324, Sess. ll.—Petitions of J. C. Macky and Others, and of E. McDonnell and Others. The petitioners pray that Hoera te Mimiha and Hone Koroneho, who have been convicted of perjury, may be allowed to show their innocence. No. 295, Sess. ll.—Petition of James Parlane and Others. The petitioners pray that Mr. S. Vaile's railway-scheme may be accorded a trial. No. 366, Sess. ll.—Petition of J. McLeod and Others. The petitioners pray that town districts may be relieved from liabilities to County Councils. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 29th November, 1887.

No. 370, Sess. ll.—Petition of E. S. O'Connell and Others. The petitioners, Dunedin residents of all shades of political and economic opinion, pray that the tariff may be revised during the present session. I am directed to report that, as the Government has the subject-matter of this petition now under consideration, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th November, 1887.

No. 372, Sess. ll.—Petition of J. Murray Davidson and another. The petitioners, Moderator and Clerk, respectively, of the Synod of the Presbyterian Church of Otago and Southland, pray that certain clauses in the Divorce Bill now before Parliament may be No. 310, Sess ll.—Petition of D. G. Polson and Others. The petitioners pray that the Wanganui Harbour Board Bill may not be passed. I am directed to report that, as measures dealing with the subject-matter of these petitions are now before Parliament, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th November, 1887.

No. 14, Sess. ll.—Petition of T. W. Porter and Others, of Cook County. The petitioners state that there is a large territory of waste land, amounting to over four millions of acres in the East Coast District of the North Island, which is capable of supporting a numerous industrious population. They therefore pray that the House will afford such assistance to Mr. Eees in his effort to promote colonisation as will enable him, if otherwise successful, to introduce and locate upon lands now useless large numbers of agricultural settlers. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. Ist December, 1887.

No. 68, Sess. ll.—Petition of Janet Macdonald and Charles P. Macdonald, of Halfway Bush, Dunedin. The petitioners state that they have suffered great loss owing to the illegal sale of certain lands by Mr. B. E. Strang, when Eegistrar of the Supreme Court and Administrator of Intestate Estates. They pray that compensation may be granted on account of said illegal action. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. Ist December, 1887.

No. 367, Sess. ll.—Petition of W. Innes Taylor and Others, of Tamaki West. The petitioners pray that the boundaries of the Tamaki West and Panmure Licensing Districts may be more clearly defined. . I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. Ist December, 1887.

No. 42, Sess. ll.—Petition of W. W. J. Spreat, of Wellington. The petitioner states that he entered the service of the Provincial Government in 1872 and of the General Government in 1876, and remained in the latter service until his office was abolished in October 1883 • that said office was that of lithographic draughtsman. That he has only received

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the sum of £209 6s. lOd. by way of compensation, said sum being computed on his General Government service. He prays that the following sums of money may be paid to him, viz., £147 95., being compensation on account of service under the Provincial Government; £35, being an amount deducted in the year 1880-81 by way of 10 per cent, on his salary; and £180 for the twelve months' leave of absence which he was granted on half-pay. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the Government. Ist December, 1887.

No. 90, Sess. ll.—Petition of George Willmer. The petitioner states that in 1884 he purchased upwards of ten thousand sheep on the Waipapa Eun ; that he did not then know the run had been infested with scab for twenty years ; that he erected twenty miles of permanent fencing, and destroyed thousands of scabby sheep ; but at length found so many infected sheep came through the wire fencing from the high ranges of Crown lands that he decided to destroy the whole of the remainder of his flock; that he did this voluntarily, and got no compensation from Government; but that owners who destroyed under compulsion from the department were compensated at the rate of 2s. 6d. per head; that the district is now quite free from scab. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. 2nd December, 1887. ______________

No. 249, Sess. ll.—Petition of George and William Mathison, of Dunedin. (Second Eeport.) This petition having been referred back to the Committee by the House for reconsideration, I am directed to report that the Committee, while not renommending the prayer of the petitioners, would suggest that, upon the petitioners' giving security for the costs of an action at law, Government should afford them facilities to prosecute their claims in the Courts, should they be so disposed. 2nd December, 1887.

No. 293, Sess. ll.—Petition of Samuel Morrison. The petitioner 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, &c. ; that his attention was occupied in watching the 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. He prays that he may be compensated for loss of office. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. 2nd December, 1887.

No. 368, Sess. II. —Petition of Aeithea Seymour Symonds, of Onehunga. The petitioner, widow of the late John Jermyn Symonds, asks for a compassionate-allowance on account of her late husband's long services. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner. 2nd December, 1887.

No. 386, Sess. ll.—Petition of George Eoss and -Others. The petitioners, settlers of Parua Bay, pray for telephonic communication with the rest of the colony. 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.

Nos. 391, 392, 393, 394, and 395, Sess. 11. — The Petitions of W. Ogilvie and Others, of H. McKrures and Others, Hurndall and Blundell and Others, John Warnock and Others, and of Earle and Montgomery and Others. The petitioners, retail tradesmen of Auckland, pray for the abridgement of shop hours. 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. 2nd December, 1887.

No. 73. —Petition of Jonathan Mann, of Hawke's Bay. The petitioner states that in the year 1847 he leased a block of land near Wellington; that in 1848 some Natives fired a piece of adjoining bush; that the fire spread on to his land and completely destroyed his homestead, causing a loss of £300 to him. He prays that the Government may compensate him for his losses. ] am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. 6th December, 1887.

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No. 299, Sess. ll.—Petition of Ann Eobertson, of Ohinemutu. "The petitioner states that in February, 1887, she laid an information for perjury against one Alexander Campbell, who was witness in an action in which petitioner was plaintiff and the trustees of the late Eobert Graham defendants; that, owing to very grave carelessness on the part of the Crown Prosecutor, there were certain errors in the indictment which rendered it necessary for the Judge to discharge the prisoner; that had the prosecution of the said A. Campbell been allowed to proceed it would have resulted in his conviction for perjury and established the justice of petitioner's case against the trustees. 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. 309, Sess. ll.—Petition of Thomas Patterson, of Appleby, Otago. The petitioner, a carter, states that on the evening of the 18th September last he was returning home with his horse and dray through Canon Street, Invercargill, and, when attempting to go over the railway-crossing, was run into by a train ; that he was so seriously injured as to be unable now to follow any occupation for the support of his wife and eight children ; that his horse was killed and his dray broken. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that the Committee has considered the report of the Eailway Department on this petition, and, as there is no evidence from the petitioner in support of his claim, they have no recommendation to make. 6th December, 1887.

No. 327, Sess. ll.—Petition of William Eieey. The petitioner states that he was appointed printer-overseer of the printing-office at Lyttelton Gaol in 1879 ; that the conditions of his agreement were as follow : Salary, £177 per annum, with prospect of increase, no night duty, to leave work at 5 p.m. in summer and 4 p.m. in winter. That during the first five years of his service the labour-returns averaged £1,000 per year, being double any previous average. That, contrary to his agreement, he had to perform the duties of night-orderly officer, in addition to his daily duties, from June, 1884, until September, 1885, the night duties falling every third or fourth night, and making a total of 1,572 hours extra night duty. He prays for redress. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. 6th December, 1887.

No. 329, Sess. ll.—Petition of Thomas C. Thwaites, of Auckland. The petitioner states that he was one of the original members of the first Naval corps established in Auckland, having joined in 1860; that he was several times on active service, and sustained an injury to his leg, from which he still suffers. He prays for consideration. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 6th December, 1887.

No. 342, Sess. ll.—Petition of Charles Mack, of Auckland. The petitioner alleges that he was illegally convicted of smuggling tobacco in the year 1868; that he has petitioned Parliament many times, but can get no redress. He prays that his case may be considered. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioner has no claim against the colony. 6th December, 1887.

No. 40, Sess. ll.—Petition of W. M. Maskeel and Others, of Wellington. The petitioners, householders of Wellington, allege that, in consequence of the provisions of "The Wellington Gas Company Act, 1870," and of the proceedings of the Gas Company thereunder, they have been and are now subjected to an oppressive system, whereby the company obtains undue advantages, to the great detriment of the petitioners. They consider that the payment of rent for meters is unjust and oppressive, that provision ought to be made for inspection by a public and independent officer, that a rateable reduction in the price of gas should be made, and that there should be a proper system of audit of the company's accounts, by an independent and public auditor. They pray for consideration, and that the Act may be amended in the directions indicated by them. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, there is no evidence to sustain the allegation contained in the petition that the system is oppressive; that, as the company are quite willing to meet the request for inspection, such inspection is desirable in the interests of all concerned; that a balance-sheet declared and issued, as in the case of banking companies, would also be desirable in the interests of the public. 7th December, 1887.

No. 434, Sess. ll.—Petition of John Tuck and Others, of Wairarapa. The petitioners pray that the Wairarapa North County Council Empowering Bill may be passed this session.

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I am directed to report that, as the above-mentioned Bill is now before the House, this Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th December, 1887.

No. 456, Sess. ll.—Petition of W. J. Kirk. The petitioner, Chairman of the Pitone Town Board, prays that the Slaughterhouses Act 1877 Amendment Bill may not be passed, except with such modifications as will exempt from its operation slaughterhouses lawfully established within any borough or town district. I am directed to report that, as a Bill proposing to deal with the subject-matter of the petition is now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th December, 1887.

No. 429, Sess ll.—Petition of Walter Prince and Others, of Inangahua. The petitioners pray that telephonic communication may be established between Inangahua Junction and Lyell. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 13th December, 1887.

No. 437, Sess. ll.—Petition of P. Thompson and Others, of Christchurch. The petitioners pray that the rate of pay on relief-works may not be reduced. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 13th December, 1887.

No. 407, Sess. ll.—Petition of James E. Lysaght and Others, of Taranaki. The petitioners pray that, in the construction of the North Island Trunk Eailway, the Stratford route may be adopted. I am directed to report that, as the prayer of this petition opens up a large question of public policy entirely outside the functions of this Committee, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 13th December, 1887.

No. 470, Sess. ll.—Petition of B. P. Perry and Others, of Masterton. The petitioners pray that a prohibitory liquor-law may be passed. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 20th December, 1887.

No. 468, Sess. ll.—Petition of William Eeid, of Dunedin. The petitioner, a seed-merchant, states that in July, 1884, he purchased ten sacks of timothy grass seed from E. Willett of Biverton ; that the said E. Willett delivered the seed in good order to the station-clerk at Biverton; but that, in the course of transit to your petitioner, it was damaged by water to such an extent as to render it unsaleable. He prays that payment may be made to him of the value of the seed —viz., £32 4s. 7d. —and expenses attached thereto; or that the question of time within which an action should be brought be waived, so that he may lodge a claim for the damage sustained in a Court of law. I am directed to report that the Committee, having considered the report from the Eailway Department, and all documents in connection with petitioner's case, have no recommendation to' make. 20th December, 1887.

No. 484, Sess. II. —Petition of William Stephenson. The petitioner, late a constable of police, states that, after having served for twenty-one years in the New Zealand service, he has been compelled to retire, owing to a clause in the Constabulary regulations obliging constables to do so when they attain the age of sixty years. He prays that he may be reinstated, as he has a wife and family to support, and is just as capable as ever of performing the duties of the office. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 20th December, 1887.

No. 371, Sess. ll.—Petition of S. W. Nicholls and Others, of Taranaki. The petitioners pray that a road may be constructed between Waitara and the Central Eailway. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred, to the Government for consideration. 20th December, 1887.

No. 473, Sess. ll.—Petition of Patrick McCroy, of Tikitere. The petitioner prays for relief on account of losses sustained through the Tarawera eruption. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 20th December, 1887.

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