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

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1889 Session I, I-01

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1889. NEW ZEALAND.

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

Presented to the House of llepresentalives and ordered to be printed.

INDEX.

No. Petitions. Page. ■ A. 11 3 2 11 8 11 4 12 501 154 41 413 49 477 177 508 Alesworth, Arper Allen, A., and Others (Women) Amuri County Council Anderson, Joseph Andrews, James Archer, J. S., and Others Ashburton County Council Auld, Anne 473 474 81 14 253 268 397 317 470 492 262 185 132 75 B. Bagnall, A. E., and Others Bagnall, L. G., and Others Ballantyne, J. and Co., and Others Banks, John Skelton Barclay, A. B., and Others Battley, Elizabeth, and Others Bay of Islands County Council Beattie, Rev. A. M. Besjg, A. C, and Others Bell, Thomas, and Co., Representatives of (vide 1,-2). Benham, Frederick Best, Edward, and Others Boyce, James Brennan, Hannah Brookfield, F. M. P. Brown, David (vide I.-2). Brown, Jonathan, and Others Browne, William Ferris Bruce County Council Bull, Henry Bullen, R. Burrows, A. W. .. Burtt, James Butler, J. B., and Others 10 10 1 2 6 G 8 7 11 11 6 7 8 4 4G6 113 190 116 518 19G 391 2GG 10 4 4 5 12 5 9 C 383 87 32 139 170 37 5G 35 15G 03 464 398 40 470 475 428 502 405 20 13 203 133 301 c. Cain, William J., and Others Cambridge Road Board Carey, Patrick J. Carterton Borough Council Chamberlin, Elizabeth C. Christohureh Gas, Coal, and Coke Company Christie, William Clapcott, Henry Clarke, John T. Clifton County Council Cogswell, W. P. Considine, J., and Others Cook County Council Cooper, N., and Others Corbett, James, and Others Corliss, Mortimer Costall, Jane A., and Others Cottier, William, and Others %, County Councils and Road Boards (various) County Councils (various) Cowan, Henry, and Others Crippen, Frederick Cropp, B., and Others 11 2 3 8 1 5,8 8 7 1 10 8 2 10 10 10 10 8 1 2 G 4 7

No. Petitions. l'age. 116 386 195 183 95 31 440 90 279 318 130 Darnell, B. H. .. Davidson, John, and Others Davies, John, and Others Death, George, and Others Dennis, G. Donaldson, James Doris, James Douglas, Neil .. .. Duke, John S. .. Dundas, Alexander Dunn, Andrew .. 2 9 4 4. 5 9 6 8 10 » 67 76 275 453 221 E. - Edmonds, Louisa Edwards, Edwin, and Others Ell, George Waldock Elder, Hogg, Nicol, and Others (vide 1,-2), Elder, H. E., and Moore, G. Ellis, Thomas Ellison, Henry .. 6 9 6,11 505 46 60 V2 4 5 157 484 416 141 297 308 P. Panzelow, Hans Charles Farquhar, James Faulkner, James, and Others Feathorston Town Board Fergusson and Mitchell, and Others Filleul, L. Marian, and Others Fox, Sir W. {vide 1.-2). Fraser, William J. Fulton, Catherine, and Others Fulton, John, and Others 4 10 8 2 7 6 74 59 7 11 2 5 48 434 471 I 360 125 238 395 17G 39 G. Garland, Henry Garlick, J. T. .. Gibbons, B. P., and Others Giesen, Edward Good Templars, Dunedin Goodwin, W. H., and Others Gourley, Hugh, and Others Grey County Council Guthrie, Mrs. .. 9 10 n 6 9 a 7 103 364 ; 101 493 i 181 495 ! 17 69 151 129 267 264 443 H. Hall, Thomas Hamilton, Alexander McCausland Havmaford, T. B. (No. 1) Hannaford, T. B. (No. 2) Hanson, Mrs. H., and Others Hately, William Hawera County Council.. Hawke's Bay County Council Heberley, James Hewitt, Captain J. D. R. Hill, Lucy, and Others Hill, T. B.', and Others Hislop, James, and Others Hogg, Nicol, Elder, and Others (vide 1-2). 8 7 4 10 4 -11 1 a 5,7 ;-s (> & 9

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No. Petitions. Page. 491 52 291 278 380 191 182 29 10 Horn, Daniel Hospital and Charitable Aid Board, North Auckland (vide 1.-2). Huddleston, H. B. Hughes, Martin Hull, Thomas Hungerford and McKay Hungerford, T. G. Hunter, Andrew, and Others Hunter, John Clarke Hutt County Council 10 2 9 7 9 5 4 2 1 125 I. Independent Order of Good Templars, Dunedin Ingram, H. S. .. .. 3 10 417 J. -307 Jenkins, William 8 89 282 102 385 269 226 85 58 273 K. Kaikoura County Council Karioi Road Board Kelly, Jessie Kempthorne, Prosser, and Co. .*. Kerr, William, and Others Kihikihi Town Board Kirikirh'oa Road Board Kirkland, Mary, and Others Knight, John G. 2 6 5 8,11 6 6 2 2 7 3 92 L. Lake County Council Laney, James Lang, F. W. (vide 1,-2). Lundon, John .. .. .. .. 1 3 504 12 54 469 145 392 152 60 472 505 483 M. Maniototo County Council McKenzie, A., and Others McLaren, D., and Others Mear, Stephen S. Medical Practitioners of Ohristchurch Mongonui County Council Moore, Curtis, and Others Moore, G., and Elder, H. R. Moore, William, and Others 2 10 3 9 3 2 10 12 10

No. Petitions. Page. 7 253 28.1 o. Otago Harbour Board Otago University, Members of Otamatea County Council 5 6 6 117 8 444 265 317 P. Patangata County Council Patea County Council Pearce, John, and Others Philson, T. M., and Others Presbyterian Church, Moderator of the 2 1 9 6 7 j 19 213 20 249 94 R. Raglan County Council Rangitikei County Council Road Boards and County Councils (various) Rodney County Council Ross, S. J., and Others .. 1 5 1 6 3 441 482 70 s. Schultze, A., and Others Sheldon, J., and Others Southland County Council 9 10 2 36 88 86 55 138 T. Taieri County Council Tamahere Road Board Taotaoroa Road Board Tauranga County Council Tuapeka County Council 1 2 2 2 2 238 280 V. Village Settlers, JMgaruawaliia Vincent County Council.. 6 6 248 84 18 53 140 247 9 42 464 64 501 359 93 184 w. Waihemo County Council Waikato County Council Waipa County Council Wairarapa North County Council Wairarapa South County Council Waitemata County Council Waitotara County Council Wallace County Council.. Whaingaroa Road Board Whakatane County Council White, John Wilks, A. E., and Others .. Will, Rev. W., and Others Wilson, William, and Others 6 2 1 2 2 6 1 2 10 1 11 6 3 4

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1889. NEW ZEALAND.

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

ORDER OF REFERENCE. Extract from the Journals of the House of Representatives. Tuesday, the 25th Day of June, 1889. Ordered, " That a Public Petitions A to L Committee, consisting of ten members, be appointed to consider all petitions that may be referred to it by the Petitions Classification Committee, to classify and prepare abstracts of such petitions in such form and manner as shall appear to it best suited to convey to this House all requisite information respecting their contents, and to report the same from time to time to this House, and to have power to report its opinions and observations thereupon to this House ; also to have power to call for persons and papers ; three to be a quorum: the Committee to consist of Mr. Allen, Mr. Blake, Mr. Duncan, Mr. Fish, Mr. Goldie, Mr. Loughrey, Mr. Marchant, Mr. Moat, Mr. Seymour, and the mover." —(Hon. Mr. Hislop.)

Nos. 3, 8, 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, and 19. —Petitions of the Lake County Council, the Patea County Council, the Waitotaea County Council, the Hutt County Council, the Taieei County Council, the Haweea County Council, the Waipa County Council (No. 1), and the Eaglan County Council. The petitioners pray for such, amendment of the existing licensing law as may transfer to Borough and County Council's and Town Boards the powers now exercised within their respective districts by Licensing Committees. I am directed to report that the Committee is not prepared to recommend the prayer of these petitions. 28th June, 1889.

No. 20.—Petition of various County Councils and Eoad Boards. The petitioners pray for such amendment of " The Slaughterhouse Act Amendment Act, 1888," as may permit settlers living at a distance from towns and boroughs to kill and dispose of meat to the extent of one head of neat cattle or four sheep monthly. I am directed to recommend this petition to the favourable consideration of the Government. 28th June, 1889.

No. 37. —Petition of the Cheistchuech Gas, Coal, and Coke Company (Limited). The petitioners pray that a Bill to empower the Christchurch City Council to construct gasworks in opposition to those of the petitioners may not be allowed to pass. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, this petition should be referred to the Local Bills Committee. 28th June, 1889.

Nos. 63 and 64.—Petitions of the Clifton County Council and the Whakatane County Council. The petitioners pray for amendment of " The Land Act, 1885," so as to facilitate the settlement of Crown lands. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, these two petitions should be referred to the Waste Lands Committee. (Vide, 1.-5.) 4th July, 1889.

No. 81.—Petition of J. Ballantyne and Co. and Others, of Christchurch. The petitioners pray that the Christchurch City Council Empowering Bill, now before the House, be not allowed to pass. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, this petition should be referred to the Local Bills Committee. 4th July, 1889. I—l. 1.

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

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No. 13.—Petition of Twenty County Council The petitioners pray for amendment of the present law on hospitals and charitable aid in its relation to the rating and relief of Maoris. No. 60.—Petition of Mongonui County Council. The petitioners pray that the County of Mongonui may be constituted a separate hospital and charitable aid district by itself. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these two petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration in connection with the Hospitals and Charitable Aid Bill now before the House. sth July, 1889.

Nos. 58 and 59.—Petitions of Maey Kikkland and Others and Catheeine Fulton and Others. The petitioners pray that the directors of the Exhibition to be held at Dunedin may not be licensed to sell intoxicating liquors. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, these two petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration in connection with the Dunedin Exhibition Streetclosing and Licensing Bill, now before the House. sth July, 1889.

No. 14.—Petition of John Skelton Banks, of Whangarei. The petitioner states that he was formerly in the Police Force of the colony, and was discharged for misconduct. He prays for readmission to the Force or other consideration. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner was properly dismissed from the Police Force, and has no claim to any consideration. 10th July, 1889.

No. 29. —Petition of John Claeke Huntee, of Campbelltown, Southland. The petitioner prays for compensation for loss of office in the railway service. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has been treated with sufficient liberality, and has no further claim against the Government. 10th July, 1889.

Nos. 40, 41, 42, 53, 54, 55, 69, and 70. — Petitions of the Cook County Council, the Amuei County Council, the Wallace County Council, the Waieaeapa Noeth County Council, the Maniototo County Council, the Taueanga County Council, the Hawke's Bay County Council, and the Southland County Council. The petitioners pray for amendment of the licensing law, so as to transfer to local bodies the powers now exercised by Licensing Committees. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of these petitious. 10th July, 1889.

No. 52.—Petition of H. B. Huddleston, of Blenheim. The petitioner prays for compensation for alleged loss of practice as a surveyor through the operation of the Land Transfer Act. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner is not entitled to any compensation. 10th July, 1889.

Nos. 84,-85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 117, 138, 139, 140, 141, and 176.—Petitions of the Waikato County Council, the Kibikieieoa Eoad Boabd, the Taotaoeoa Eoad Boaed, the Cambeidge Eoad Boabd, the Tamaheee Eoad Board, the Kaikouea County Council, the Patangata County Council, the Tuapeka County Council, the Caeteeton Boeough Council, the Waieaeapa South County Council, the Feathebston Town Boaed, and the Geey County Council. The petitioners pray for such amendment of the licensing law as shall transfer to local bodies the powers now exercised in their respective districts by Licensing Committees. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of these petitions. 12th July, 1889.

No. 95.-—Petition of G. Dennis, of Greymouth. The petitioner prays for alteration of the Gaming and Lotteries Act so as to legalise consultations or sweepstakes. I am directed to report that in the opinion of the Committee, this document is informal, not being a petition, and that the Committee therefore declines to consider it. 12th July, 1889.

No. 115.—Petition of B. H. Darnell, of New Plymouth. The petitioner prays for the introduction of a Fair Eent Bill, with provision for tenant right. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the subject of this petition. 12th July, 1889.

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Nos. 125, 93, 94, and 145.—Petitions of the Independent Oedeb of Good Templaes, Dunedin; the Eev. W. Will and Others, of East Taieri; S. J. Eoss and Others, of Dunedin; and David McLaeen and Others, of Dunedin. The petitioners protest against the proposal to license the directors of the Dunedin Exhibition for the sale of intoxicating liquors. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these four petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration in connection with the Dunedin Exhibition Streetclosing and Licensing Bill, now before the House. 12th July, 1889.

No. 35.—Petition of Henby Clapcott. The petitioner prays for compensation for loss of office under the Insurance Department. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has been more than liberally dealt with, and has no claim against the colony. 17th July, 1889.

No. 48.—Petition of Henby Gabland, of Auckland. The petitioner prays for increase of compensation for loss of office in the Defence Force. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no further claim on the Government. 17th July, 1889.

No. 49.—Petition of James Andeews, of Kaiapoi. The petitioner claims compensation for damage by flood-water directed upon his land by Government railway works. I am directed to report as follows:—The petition was considered at a meeting of the Committee held on the 12th July, 1889. Present: Mr. Seymour, Chairman, Mr. Allen, Mr. Blake, Mr. Goldie, Mr. Marchant, and Mr. Moat. Mr. Moat moved, and the question being put, That, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has a claim against the colony, and that his claim should be recommended to the Government for favourable consideration, the Committee divided, and the names were taken down as follows : — Ayes, 4 : Mr. Allen, Mr. Blake, Mr. Goldie, Mr. Moat. No, 1 : Mr. Marchant. So it was resolved in the affirmative. 17th July, 1889.

No. 129.—Petition of Captain J. D. B. Hewitt, of Wellington. This Committee recommended last session that a certain sum of money should be paid to the petitioner, who now prays for an inquiry into the reasons why the recommendation of the Committee has not been carried out, I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition is informal, as having a document attached to it, contrary to Standing Order No. 270. 17th July, 1889.

No. 152.—Petition of Eleven Medical Pbactitionees of Christchurch. The petitioners protest against the introduction of a new Medical Practitioners Bill. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the subject of this petition. 17th July, 1889.

No. 154.—Petition of A. Allen and Other Women of Port Chalmers. The petitioners pray for the repeal of the Contagious Diseases Act. I am directed to report that, as there is now before the House a Bill dealing with the subject of this petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th July, 1889.

No. 32.—Petition of Patbick J. Cabey, of Napier. The petitioner alleges that he was improperly dismissed from the office of drill-instructor, and prays for compensation. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner. 19th July, 1889.

No. 92.—Petition of James Lanby, of Cambridge, Waikato. The petitioner states that in February, 1873, while engaged in digging a drain, he received from a certain Maori a severe blow on the head, which has had the effect of making him deaf and partially blind, and of disabling him from earning his living. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 19th July, 1889.

No. 132.—Petition of Hannah Beennan, of Christchurch. The petitioner prays for retiring-allowance on discharge from her situation as attendant in the Sunnyside Lunatic Asylum. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner, 19th July, 1889,

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No. 46. —Petition of Thomas Ellis, of Wanganui. The petitioner complains that certain articles exhibited by him at the Colonial and Indian Exhibition, in London, were returned to him broken and damaged. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the subject of this petition. 6th August, 1889.

No. 75. —Petition of F. M. P. Brookfield, of Auckland. The petitioner complains that ho lias been dismissed from the office of Judge of the Native Land Court on the ground of retrenchment only, and not for any fault of his own, white other Judges of more recent appointment have been retained in the service. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, as it appears from correspondence that the Government has^ not yet communicated to the petitioner its final decision on his case, the Committee is of opinion that the Government should be recommended to do so as early as practicable. 6th August, 1889.

No. 101.—Petition of T. B. Hannafobd, of Auckland. (No. 1.) The petitioner complains that, by the use of cast-iron for building the lighthouse-tower on Cuvier Island, the Government has pirated his own invention of cast-iron lighthouse-towers. I am directed to report that the Committee finds, on examination of plans and other documentary evidence, that no piracy of the petitioner's design has taken place, for cast-iron towers have been in use for similar purposes, both in New Zealand and elsewhere, for at least thirty years. 6th August, 1889.

No. 113.—Petition of William Ferris Browne, of Dunedin. This petition is a claim for increased retiring-allowance or compensation in respect of provincial service. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has received all the compensation he is entitled to. 6th August, 1889.

No. 133. —Petition of Frederick Crippen, of Auckland. The petitioner complains that a certain sum of money held by the Public Trustee in trust for the petitioner's children was so invested by the Public Trustee that for one period of eighteen months it yielded no income at all. The petitioner prays for payment of arrears of interest. I am directed to report that the Committee is unable to recommend the prayer of the petitioner. 6th August, 1889.

No. 157.—Petition of Hans Charles Fanzelow, of Eotoiti, Nelson. The petitioner prays for consideration for having made a certain road. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition is informal, as having a document attached to it, contrary to Standing Order No. 270. 6th August, 1889. ,

Nos. 177 and 190.—Petitions of the Ashburton County Council and the Bruce County Council. The petitioners pray for such amendment of "The Licensing Act, 1881," as shall transfer to local bodies the powers now exercised by Licensing Committees. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of these petitions. 6th August, 1889.

No. 181.—Petition of Mrs. H. Hanson and 999 Others. The petitioners protest against the licensing clauses of the Dunedin Exhibition Bill. I am directed to report that the Committee has already reported on several similar petitions during the present session, and has no further recommendation to make. 6th August, 1889.

Nos. 182, 183, and 184.—Petitions of Andeew Hunter and Others, George Death and Others, and William Wilson, J.P., and Others, of Patea. The petitioners object to the proposed formation of a new County of Waverley out of part of the County of Patea. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these three petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 6th August, 1889.

No. 195. —Petition of John Davies and 268 Others, of Waikaia and the Neighbourhood. The petitioners pray for completion of the Biversdale-Switzers Eailway. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration, 6th August, 1889,

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No. 213.—Petition of the Bangitikei County Council. The petitioners oppose the new Hospitals and Charitable Aid Bill. I am directed to report that, as this petition refers to a Bill now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 6th August, 1889.

No. 56. —Petition of William Christie, of Oamaru. The petitioner makes charges of favouritism and oppression against Mr. District Judge Ward, and prays that steps may be taken to insure proper administration of justice in the District Court of Timaru and Oamaru. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner has commenced civil proceedings against Judge Ward for false imprisonment, this Committee is of opinion that it should not further proceed with the consideration of the petition while the case is still sub judice. 6th August, 1889.

No. 151. —Petition of James Heberley, of Picton. The petitioner prays for consideration for his long service as a pilot in Port Nicholson and Queen Charlotte Sound since the year 1840. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration, with the recommendation that a small annuity should be granted to the petitioner. 6th August, 1889.

No. 31.—Petition of James Donaldson, of Christchurch. The petitioner prays for compensation for loss of office as Gaoler. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has received all the compensation he is entitled to. Bth August, 1889.

No. 66.—Petition of Henky Ellison, of Napier. The petitioner states that he is the assignee of Mr. C. W. Eeardon in respect of a contract to survey certain Crown lands for the Wellington Special Settlement Association ; that on completion of the survey the Government Inspector improperly refused to certify Mr. Eeardon's plans, alleging that they contained errors greater than those allowed by law; that the secretary of the Association accordingly determined the contract; and that the petitioner was thus prevented from receiving from the Association the sum of £400 due to him on. completion of the contract. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim to compensation. Bth August, 1889.

No. 102.--Petition of Jessie Kelly, of Port Chalmers. The petitioner is the widow of Thomas Kelly, formerly pilot at Dunedin, and claims consideration for his services under the Provincial Government of Otago. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim whatever upon the colony. Bth August, 1889.

No. 116. —Petition of Henry Bull, of Newmarket. The petitioner prays for compensation for dismissal from his employment as a coach-trimmer in the railway-workshops at Newmarket. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim whatever against the colony. Bth August, 1889.

No. 191. —Petition of T. G. Hungebfobd, of Catlin's Eiver, Otago. The petitioner prays for additional compensation for loss of his office as Banger. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner's claim has been fully satisfied. Bth August, 1889.

No. 196. —Petition of A. W. Bubkows, of Tauranga. The petitioner prays for payment for making a plan of the sanatorium grounds at Eotorua. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. Bth August, 1889,

No. 7. —Petition of Johjt Fulton and other Members of the Otago Harbour Board. The petitioners complain that a piece of land belonging to the Board has been taken by the Government for railway purposes, and that no equivalent for it has been given to the Board. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioners are entitled to payment of £4,500 for the land taken. 9th August, 1889.

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No 221.—Petition of Geobge Waldock Ell, of Christchurch. The petitioner prays for relief from a great hardship caused by an error on the part of an officer of the Supreme Court. I am directed to report as follows : Mr. Commissioner Conolly reported on this case, "That the Eegistrar and Mr. Hargreaves made a mistake in their reading of the order of the Supreme Court of the 29th October, 1884, and should not have gone behind the settled account to June, 1873; but that this mistake, if it was one, was made in good faith, and not under any wrong influence or from any improper motive." The Committee finds that in consequence of the mistake made by the Commissioner, and in consequence of the petitioner becoming bankrupt, the petitioner was rendered unable to prosecute his claim; and the Committee is of opinion that the necessary steps, by way of legislation or otherwise, should at once be taken to place the petitioner in a position to prosecute his claim, but without detriment to the claims of his creditors. 9th August, 1889.

No. 253.—Petition of A. E. Baeclay and other Members of the "University of Otago. The petitioners petition in support of the Otago University Council Bill, 1889. I am directed to report that, since the Bill advocated by the petitioners is now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th August, 1889.

No. 238.—Petition of W. H. Goodwin and other Village Settlers, of Firewood Creek, Ngaruawahia. The petitioners pray for revaluation of their holdings. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th August, 1889.

No. 90.—Petition of Neil Douglas, of Otautau. The petitioner states that he was improperly dismissed from the railway service for alleged insubordination, and that he is unable to obtain further employment in consequence of the refusal of the Hallway Department to grant him a certificate of competence and character. He prays for inquiry into his case, and for production of correspondence thereon in possession of the Bailway Commission. I am directed to report that the Committee, after hearing the petitioner, and considering the correspondence, is unable to make any recommendation in favour of the petitioner, 14th August, 1889.

Nos. 226, 247, 248, 280, 281, and 282. — Petitions of the Kihikihi Town Boaed, Waitbmata County Council, Waihemo County Council, Vincent County Council, Otamatea County Council, and Kaeioi Eoad Boaed. The petitioners pray for such amendment of the licensing law as may transfer to local bodies the powers now exercised by Licensing Committees. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of these petitioners. 14th August, 1889.

Nos. 67, 76, and 275. —Petition of Louisa Edmonds, of Auckland. The petitioner states that she is the widow of the late Samuel John Edmonds, who has repeatedly, but unsuccessfully, petitioned for compensation for the destruction of his cutter, the " Kate," by rebel Maoris at Whakatane in 1865. She prays that the compensation claimed by her late husband may now be granted to herself. I am directed to report that the Committee, having made further inquiry into this case, is of opinion that the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 16th August, 1889.

No. 249.—Petition of the Eodney County Council. The petitioners pray for inquiry into the administration of endowments made for the benefit of destitute children. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the Government should be recommended to institute inquiry into the administration of charitable endowments throughout the colony. 16th August, 1889.

Nos. 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268, 269, 308, and 359. —Petitions, of Edwaed Best and Others, Heney Cowan and Others, T. B. Hill and Others, T. M. Philson, M.D., and Others, J. B. Butleb and Others, Lucy Hill and Others, Elizabeth Battley and Others, William KEBii^nd Others, L. Mabian Filleul and Others, and A. E. Wilks and Others. The petitioners pray for the repeal of the " Contagious Diseases Act, 1869." I am directed to report that, since there is now before the House a Bill dealing with the subject of these petitions, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 16th August, 1889.

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No. 273. —Petition of John G. Knight, of Weka Pass, Waikari. The petitioner complains that his tender for conveyance of mails between Waipara and Cheviot, though it was the lowest tender, was not accepted by the Post Office. I am directed to report that the Committee, having inquired into the petitioner's case, has no recommendation to make. 16th August, 1889.

No. 297.—Petition of Febgusson and Mitchell and Others, of Dunedin. The petitioners allege that the Ross Creek Reservoir is in a dangerous condition,-and pray for the appointment of an Inspector of Reservoirs, with duties and powers similar to those of an Inspector of Machinery and an Inspector of Mines. I am directed to recommend that the Government engineers should be required to repsrt periodically to the Government and to the local bodies on the condition of all reservoirs in their several districts. 16th August, 1889.

No. 301.—Petition of B. Ceopp and Others, of Hoult's Valley. The petitioners pray for the construction of a bridge across the Wai-iti to enable their children to attend the State school at Wakefield. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 16th August, 1889.

No. 317.—Petition of Eev. A. M. Beattie, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand. The petitioner prays for immediate legislation to suppress gambling, pugilistic entertainments, and the publication of evidence in certain classes of police cases. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the subject of this petition. 16th August, 1889.

No. 364.—Petition of Alexander McCausland Hamilton, of Campbelltown South. The petitioner prays for additional compensation for the loss of his leg in the railway service. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has been fully compensated, and has no further claim upon the colony. 16th August, 1889.

No. 39. —Petition of Mrs. Caboline Gutheie, of Wellington. The petitioner states that in 1885 she took proceedings in the Supreme Court to recover damages for alleged injury to her son; that judgment was given against her, with costs, which were levied by distraint, so that she was left without means to appeal. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim whatever against the colony. 22nd August, 1889.

No. 151.—Petition of James Hebebley, of Picton. (Further report.) The petitioner prays for consideration for long service as a pilot. I am directed to recommend that the Government should delay giving effect to the Committee's report of the 6th August on the petition of James Heberley until the Government is in possession of further information about certain grants of land said to have been made to the petitioner. 22nd August, 1889.

No. 156.—Petition of John T. Clarke, of Thames. The petitioner complains that in July, 1878, a railway was carried through two lots of land belonging to him at Opaheke, but that, having been absent at the time from the colony, he did not discover the fact until July, 1888, when he applied for compensation, which was refused him on the ground that his claim had not been made within the limit of five years fixed by Act. I am directed to recommend that the Government should take over the whole of the two lots, and should pay the petitioner equitably for them. 22nd August, 1889.

No. 185.—Petition of Jambs Boyce, of Clifton, Motupipi. The petitioner prays for compensation for alleged injustice on the part of the Eesident Magistrate at Takaka. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim whatever against the colony. 22nd August, 1889.

No. 278.—Petition of Thomas Hull, of Auckland. The petitioner alleges that he has been unfairly treated in the matter of pay and leave of absence while employed as an attendant at the Avondale Asylum. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim to any consideration. 22nd August, 1889.

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No. 279. —Petition of John S. Duke, of Sumner Street, Auckland. The petitioner complains that his tender for the assessment of certain districts was not accepted by the Property-tax Commissioner. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim whatever against the colony. ' 22nd August, 1889.

No. 307.—Petition of William Jenkins, of Dunedin. The petitioner alleges that the Otago Harbour Board unfairly obliges him to pay rent on improvements made by himself on land which he leases from the Board. I am directed to report that, as the case of the petitioner appears to be one between himself and the Otago Harbour Board, the Committee has no power to interfere in the matter. 22nd August, 1889.

No. 170. —Petition of Elizabeth C. Chambeelin, of Parnell. The petitioner states that the Waitemata County Council in 1886 obtained judgment in the Eesident Magistrate's Court at Auckland for 19s. 9d. for rates due by one T. G. Simmonds on lots 34 and 35, Hobsonville, Waipareira, containing 24 acres 3 roods 9 perches ; that the clerk who wrote out the list of properties to be sold for arrears of rates inadvertently omitted the word " Hobsonville " from the description of this property; that consequently lots 34 and 35, Waipareira, containing 156 acres, belonging to the petitioner, on which no rates were due, and against which no judgment had been given, were sold and conveyed to one Henry McCormick by mistake for the other lots ; that the petitioner was thereby put to a loss of £57 10s. for law costs in recovering possession of her land. She prays for redress. I am directed to report that, as this is a question between the petitioner and the Waitemata County Council, the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 27th August, 1889.

No. 385. —Petition of Kempthobne, Peosseb and Co., of Dunedin and elsewhere. The petitioners pray for relief from loss sustained in consequence of the imposition of a prohibitive duty on saccharine. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred t© the Government for consideration. 27th August, 1889.

.No. 397. —Petition of Bay op Islands County Council. The petitioners pray that the powers of Licensing Committees may be transferred to local bodies. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petition. 27th August, 1889.

Nos. 398 and 406.—Petitions of J. Considine and Others, of Auckland, and William Cottiee and other Licensed Victuallers, of Taranaki. The petitioners pray for such amendment of the licensing law as shall deprive Licensing Committees of the power to close licensed houses in cases where they have no fault to find with the licensees. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these two petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 27th August, 1889.

No. 416.—Petition of James Faulknek and Others, of Birkenhead and Northcote. The petitioners petition in support of a certain clause in the Patents, Designs, and Trade-marks Bill. I am directed to report that, as the subject of the petition has been dealt with by the House during the present session, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 27th August, 1889.

No. 56. —Petition of William Cheistie, of Oamaru. (Second report.) The petitioner accuses Mr. District Judge Ward of perversion of judgment in sentencing him to imprisonment for fraudulent bankruptcy, and prays that steps may be taken to insure proper administration of justice in the District Court of Timaru and Oamaru. I am directed to report that, after careful consideration of the evidence laid before the Committee, consisting of the Judge's notes,' the letters put in as exhibits, the Colonial Investment and Agency Company's statement of account, and the petitioner's statement of assets and liabilities, the Committee is of opinion that justice has been properly administered in the petitioner's case by Judge Ward. 28th August, 1889.

No. 103 .^Petition of Thomas Hall, of Christchurch. The petitioner states that he was employed from December, 1871, to May, 1887, as messenger in the Public Works Office at Christchurch ; that in May, 1887, he was appointed a temporary clerk in the same office, and continued in that employment till September, 1887, when his services were dispensed with; that compensation was tendered to him for loss of office as messenger, but that compensation for loss office as clerk was refused to him on the ground that his appointment, being

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for temporary services only, did not entitle him to compensation as a Civil servant. But the petitioner claims to be ranked as a Civil servant on the ground that he has been required to refund a sum of £1 Bs. paid to him for overtime, and that deductions have from time to time been made from his pay to meet defalcations committed by regular Civil servants. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that, in addition to the £68 ss. Id. compensation already tendered to him, the petitioner is entitled to payment of 3s. deducted from his pay for defalcations by Civil servants ; and that the Government should make further inquiries in order to ascertain whether lie is not also entitled to payment of £1 Bs. paid to him for overtime and refunded. 28th August, 1889.

No. 130.—Petition of Andeew Dunn, of Christchurch. The petitioner prays for compensation for loss of office in the Public Works Department. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner is not entitlea to any compensation. 28th August, 1889.

No. 291.—Petition of Maetin Hughes, of Invercargill. The petitioner prays for remission of the penalty of £140 exacted for failure to complete a contract within the contract time. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim to consideration. 28th August, 1889. _^

No. 380.—Petition of Hungebfokd and McKay, of Greymouth. The petitioners are the contractors that were employed to construct the North Breakwater at Greymouth Harbour. They state that before this work was completed a large portion of the breakwater, together with the plant and machinery that were being used in the work, was demolished by the German steamship " Gerda," which was wrecked at that spot. They represent that they have thereby suffered loss, which they estimate at £2,480. They pray for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioners' claim will be equitably met if the Government will contribute towards their loss the sum of £1,000. 28th August, 1889.

Nos. 391 and 392. —Petitions of James Btjbtt, of Auckland, and Stephen S. Meak, of Hokianga. The petitioners pray for relief from alleged perversion of judgment by the Resident Magistrate at Hokianga. I am directed to report that, having fully considered the case of the petitioners, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 30th August, 1889.

Nos. 441, 444, and 453. —Petitions of A. Shultze and Others, of Onehunga; John Peahcf. and Others, of Auckland; and Edwin Edwards and Others, of Ohiuemuri. The petitioners pray for restriction of the powers of Licensing Committees. No. 434. —Petition of J. T. Gaklick, President of the Gospel Temperance Mission, Auckland. The petitioner petitions deprecating any restriction of the powers of Licensing Committees. 1 am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, these four petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration, 30th August, 1889.,

No. 443. —Petition of James Hislop and Others, of Dunedin. The petitioners pray for the abolition of the property-tax. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th August, 1889.

No 386.—Petition of John Davidson and Others, of Dunedin. The petitioners are the master, owners, and crew of the schooner " Janet Ramsay," and pray for remission of the penalties inflicted upon them for taking seals at the Auckland Islands in the close season. No. 395. —Petition of Hugh Goubley, Mayor of Dunedin, and Others. In support of the former petition. I am directed to recommend that, in addition to the remissions already proposed by the Government, the seal-skins should bo restored to the crew. sth September, 1889.

No. 440.—Petition of James Doeis, of Waikouaiti. The petitioner prays for iuquii^' into the circumstances of his dismissal from the office of Babbit Agent, and for relief. I am directed to report that, as this petition relates only to matters that lie within the province of the Stock Department, this Committee is of opinion that the petition should be referred to the Joint Live-stock and Babbits Committee. (Vide 1.-11.) sth September, 1889. 2—l. 1.

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No. 464.—Petition of the Whaingaeoa Eoad Board, per W. P. Cogswell. The petitioners pray that the powers of Licensing Committees may be transferred to local bodies. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of this petition. sth September, 1889.

Nos. 469, 470, 471, 472, 473, 474, 475, 482, and 483.—Petitions of A. McKenzie and Others, N. Coopek and Others, E. P. Gibbons and Others, Cuetis Mooke and Others, A. B. Bagnall and Others, L. G. Bagnall and Others, James Cobbett and Others, J. Sheldon and Others, and William Mooee and Others. The petitioners pray that the boundaries of the Port of Thames may be made not to include the .Rivers Thames and Piako. 1 am directed to report that, as there is now before the House a Bill dealing with the subject of these petitions, the Committee is of opinion that the petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration in connection with the Bill. sth September, 1889.

No. 318. —Petition of Alexander Dundas, of Palmerston North. Thk petitioner complains that his provincial service was not included in calculating the amount of the compensation which was paid him for loss of his office in the Survey Department; and also that no payment was made to him for work alleged to have been done for the Government after the date of his dismissal from the public service. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 6th September, 1889. '

No. 417. —Petition of H. S. Ingeam, of Marumaru, Wairoa, Hawke's Bay. The petitioner prays for custody of his two sons, inmates of the Burnham Industrial School. I am directed to report that the Committee declines to recommend the prayer of this petition. 6th September, 1889.

No. 428.—Petition of Moetimee Coeliss, of Wellington. The petitioner states that he is seventy years of age, and that he has lost his eyesight from cold and exposure which he suffered when keeper of the Quarantine-station at Wellington. He prays for a small pension. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration, with the recommendation that a small pension should be granted to the petitioner. 6th Septempber, 1889.

No. 466.—Petition of Jonathan Beown and Others, of Tauranga. The petitioners pray for remission of stamp duty paid by the Tauranga East Coast and Hot Lakes District Eailway Company (Limited). I am directed to recommend this petition to the favourable consideration of the Government. 6th September. 1889.

No. 484.—Petition of James Fakquhae, of Lyttelton. The petitioner prays for inquiry into certain charges which lie makes against the Bosidenfc Magistrate at Lyttelton, and for relief from alleged injustice. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of this petition. 6th September, 1889.

No. 491.—Petition of Daniel Hoen, of Whangarei. The petitioner prays for ratification of his purchase of certain Maori land. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, this petition should be referred to the Native Affairs Committee. 6th September, 1889.

No. 493.—Petition of T. B. Hannafoed, of Auckland. (No. 2.) The petitioner prays for a trial of his electric windmill beacon at the public expense. I am directed to recommend this petition to the favourable consideration of the Government. 6th September, 1889.

No. 502. —Petition of Jane A. Costall and 43 other Members of the Women's Christian Temperance Union, Wellington. The petitioners pray for the repeal of " The Contagious Diseases Act, 1869." I am directed to report that, as there is now before the House a Bill dealing with the subject of this petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 6th September, 1889.

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No. 221. —Petition of George Waldock Ell, of Christchurch. (Second report.) The petitioner alleges that, in consequence of a mistake made by the Registrar of the Supremo Court at Christchurch, he is suffering great hardship and disability, which can only be remedied by legislation. 1 am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petitioner. 11th September, 1889.

No. 413. —Petition of Joseph Anderson, of Wellington. The petitioner prays for compensation for loss of office in the Public Works Department. ] am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the subject of this petition. 11th September, 1889. *

Nos. 476 and 477. —Petitions of A. C. Begg and Others, and J. S. Aeohee and Others. The petitioners pray for the refund of certain legal expenses incurred by the Kaikorai School Committee in a dispute with the Education Board of Otago. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioners have no claim against the colony. 11th September, 1889.

No. 501.—Petition of Aepeb Aleswokth, commonly known as John White, of Picton. The petitioner states that he is seventy-three years of age, and that he has rendered valuable service to the colony by carrying mails in a time of great danger. He prays for consideration. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government, with the recommendation that an annuity or pension of £10 be granted to the petitioner. 11th September, 1889.

No. 74. —Petition of William J. Frase.u, of Invercargill. The petitioner prays for compensation for his provincial service as Gaoler. 1 am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make on the subject of this petition. 11th September, 1889.

No. 383. —Petition of William J. Cain and Others, of Kurow. The petitioners pray for inquiry concerning the alleged delay of the Ministerial telegram withdrawing certain Otekaike runs from sale. 1 am directed to report that the Committee has made the fullest inquiry, and finds that there was no delay in the delivery of the telegram. 11th September, 1889.

No. 492. —Petition of Feederick Benham, of Springfield. The petitioner prays for compensation for land taken for railway purposes. I am directed to recommend the Government to pay the petitioner £50 for the land taken. 11th September, 1889.

No. 495. —Petition of William Hately, of Wanganui. The petitioner states that he has received one year's salary as compensation for loss of his office as Cattle Inspector, but expresses a belief that he is entitled to a pension. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petition, as the petitioner has no claim to any pension. 11th September, 1889.

No. 360.—Petition of Edward Giesen, of Foxton. The petitioner prays for additional compensation for loss of office in the Public Works Department. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 12th September, 1889.

No. 385.—Petition of Kempthoene, Peosseb, and Co. (Second report.) The petitioners pray for relief from hardship suffered through the imposition of a prohibitive duty on saccharine. I am directed to report that the Committee has considered this claim, and is of opinion that the equities of the case will be fully^met by the following : That, if the petitioners will take out of bond the whole of the saccharine which they are bound by their agreement with the company to purchase during the first year of their engagement, the Government should make them an allowance equal in amount to the difference between the present and the old tariff. 12th September, 1889.

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No. 505.—Petition of H. Li. Eldbe, Chairman, and G. Mooke, a Member of the Whareama Boad Board. The petitioners pray for inquiry into the expenditure of a sum of £200 borrowed by the Board. I am directed to repprt that, owing to the late period of the session at which this petition has come before the Committee, the Committee is unable to deal with it. 12th September, 1889.

No. 518. —Petition of E. Btjllen, of Wellington. The petitioner states that he has served for nearly twenty-seven years in the Police Force of the colony, and has received £GOO compensation on dismissal. He prays for further-employment. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of this petition. 12th September, 1889.

No. 504. —Petition of John Lundon, of Ponsonby. The petitioner alleges that in April, 1887, he advanced a sum of money to pay the crew of the s.s. " Oreti," then under charter to the Government for the transport of village settlers, and that the money so advanced has not been repaid to him. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that this petition has come before the Committee so late in the session that there is not time for the Conn nit tee to obtain sufficient evidence to enable it to form any opinion on the claim of the petitioner. 13th September, 1889.

No. 508.—Petition of Anne Auld, of Waitahuna. The petitioner states that her late husband, after eleven years service under the Railway Department, lost his life in consequence of hurts received from machinery in the discharge of his duty, leaving her in extreme poverty with a family of six children to support. I am directed to report that, if the Government, after inquiry, is satisfied of the truth of the allegations contained in the petition, the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner's case is a failone for compassionate allowance. 13th September, 1889. [Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, nil; printing (1,250 copies) £8 13 a,]

Authority; CtEOSg:u Didsbuby, Government Printer, Wellington. —1889.