REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS A TO L COMMITTEE. (Mr. C.H. MILLS, CHAIRMAN.)

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1892 Session I, I-01

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1892. NEW ZEALAND.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS A TO L COMMITTEE. (Mr. C.H. MILLS, CHAIRMAN.)

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

INDEX.

No. Petitions, cfec. Page. No. j Petitions, &c. Page. A. F. Fenton, William, and Others Ferguson, Mary, and Others • Fisher, George Fishermen and Others of Lake Ellesmere .. Foster, Beginaid Pox, Denis Franchise to Women, 7 petitions Praser, W. Friedman, Eliza Ann Fryday, Nicholas Fryday, Nicholas B 56 24 190 435 Alabaster, Daniel Aldridge, John Allen, George A. Ayre,. George, and Others 9 2 4 8 260 117 560 078 379 190 30 4 4 9 456 B. Bank of New Zealand Estates Company (Limited) Bassi, Nicholas, and Others Bates, Bussell Beatty, James .. Beaumont, William, and Others Bell, John Bible-reading in Schools, 45 petitions Bogle, William Brinkley, Bebecca ... Brodie, Alexander Brown, Thomas, and Others Bryce, Hon. John Burgess, George . 6 729 37 233 242 7 9 4 6 107 4 f> 379 219 47 222 130 •718 235 627 403 13 28 7 5 2,3 4 2 7 4 5 9 8 5 2 51 309 170 382 21 53 296 442 721 283 12 19 272 G. Galbraith, J. C, and Others Gardner, M. E., and Others Garrick, William Geary, William, and Others George, Eden Gill, B. J., and Others Glennan, Patrick .. .. .. 1 Graham, Mrs. J. S. (vide also Appendix j I.-lA) Green, James, and Others Griffiths, S., and Others Grigg, George Grimmond, Joseph, and Others 2: 5 2, 7 8 0 2 7 6,9 C. 6 1 3 8 73 209 207 132 172 365 312 80 *169 93 72 137 461 302 12 186 189 85 404 20 Campbell, Charles Campbell, John, and Others Campbell, John Carkeck, Morgan Carr, Bichard Carrington, Eliza S. Chalmers, J. L... Chambers, William N. .. Chemis, Mrs. Annie (vide also Appendix I.-ln) Clark, W., and Others (re G. W. Ell) (vide also Appendix I.-lo) Clark, William H. Clarke, Edwin L. Cleghorn, John, and Others Coates, Mrs. W.J. Commercial Travellers Cooper, G. S. .. Cornwall, P. W. Cowie, Bight Bev. W. G. (Bishop of Auckland) Coxhead, William B. Cruickshank, Bobert 1 5 6 8 4 9 5 3 10 10 2 4 8 9 1 5 3 3 10 3 337 236 111 456 32 41 27 258 22 298 167 Ii. Haggen, Edward A. Hammond, Edward Hamlin, Isabella D. Hanha, J. C. (Bank of New Zealand Estates Company, Limited) Harvey, James Hawes, Bobert G. Hislop, Catherine Hitchens, H. A. H. Huddleston, Henry B. Hughes, Martin Hunter, J. C. .. 93 62 1 1 53 & a J. Jannott, P., and Others .. 336 7 ..„„- D. Dawson, B., and Others Deighton, P. M., and Others Deverill, John Dickson, James D. K. .. Doolan, Bichard Dryden, George, and Others 15 345 314 62 K. Kennedy, Thomas, junior Kihikihi Town Board and Others King, John Knox, James 38 91 217 193 426 681 38 212 • 4 5 7 10 2 4 307 45 275 308 410 285 369 L. Lance, J. D., and Others Laney, James Leslie, John Leslie, William D. Lonargan and Company Lory, W. J., and Others Luff, G. A. M. .. 62 7 7 10 5 9 E. 486 300 93 Edwards, W. B. Elias, William, and Others Ell, Re G. W. (vide also Appendix I.-lo) .. 8 6 10 w. Women's Franchise, 7 petitions * Session II., 1891.

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1892. 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 sth Day of July, 1892. 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 arid 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 the House ; also to have power to call for persons and papers: three to be a quorum. The Committee to consist of Mr. Allen, Mr. Earnshaw, Mr. Houston, Mr. J. Kelly, Mr. Lake, Mr. C. H. Mills, Mr. Moore, Mr. B. M. Smith, Mr. Swan, and the mover."—(Hon. Mb. Cadman.)

No. 12.—Petition of S. Griffiths and 119 Others, of Wellington. Petitioners pray that the same privilege as that enjoyed by seamen, of voting for election of members of the House of Eepresentatives when away from the district, be extended to commercial travellers. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 15th July, 1892.

No. 41. —Petition of Eobeet G. Hawes, of Auckland. Petitioner alleges that his property was too highly valued by Mr. Thomas Seaman, the propertytax valuer, in the year 1886. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the matter of this petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 15th July, 1892. -

No. 73. —Petition of Chaeles Campbell, of Christchurch. Petitioner states that through the operation of section 84 of " The Government Eailways Act, 1887," he is debarred from suing the Eailway Commissioners for damages for injuries received by a wheel of a guard's van passing over his leg. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Commissioners were clearly within their right in declining to waive the notice required by " The Government Eailways Act, 1887 ; " but, as a matter of equity, the Committee are of opinion that, under all the circumstances, the second prayer of the petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 19th July, 1892.

No. 62. —Petition of James Knox, of Invercargill. Petitioner states that he was an Inspector of Works in the Public Works Department, and that after nearly thirty years' service he was dispensed with without compensation. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 19th July, 1892.

No. 27. —Petition of Cathbeine Hislop, of Invercargill. Petitioner states that her husband died from an illness caused by an accident while in the employ of the Eailway Department and that she has not received any compassionate allowance. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make, beyond that the petitioner should receive the compensation already offered by the Eailway Commissioners—viz., £33 3s. 9d. 19th July, 1892. I—l. 1.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS A TO L COMMITTEE. (Mb. C. H. MILLS, CHAIRMAN.)

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No. 32.—Petition of Jambs Haevey, of Stirling.

Petitionee states that a goods-train ran into two of his horses, and killed them. He prays for relief. lam directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 19th July, 1892.

No. 28. —Petition of Geobge Buegess, of Invercargill. Petitionee states that while driving over a railway-crossing at Nith Street, Invercargill, a shunting engine ran into and destroyed his horse and dray. He prays for relief.. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the Government to grant the petitioner a sum of £20 as compensation for his loss. 21st July, 1892.

No. 24.—Petition of John Aldeidge, of Pieton. Petitionee alleges that on the 26th November, 1890, he was wrongly convicted, and sentenced to five years' penal servitude by Mr. W. B. Edwards for forgery. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration, and that the Committee would recommend that, under all the circumstances of the case, some commutation of the sentence passed on the petitioner might be granted. 21st July, 1892.

No. 38. —Petition of Eichaed Doolan, of Christchurch. Petitioneb states that he was discharged from the Police Force as unfit for duty through failing eyesight. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee are of opinion the petition should be referred to Government for their consideration. 26th July, 1892.

No. 72. —Petition of William H. Clakk, of Parnell.

Petitionee prays that his scheme for relieving poverty, &c, may be printed at Government expense. lam directed to report that on the matter of this petition the Committee has no recommendation to make. 26th July, 1892.

No. 45.—Petition of James Laney, of Cambridge. Petitionee states that while fencing in the Waikato in 1873 he was struck on the head by a Maori, who has never been brought to justice. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, as there is no fresh evidence, the Committee do not see any reason to alter the decision of the former Committee recorded on the 17th July, 1891. 26th July, 1892.

Nos. 51 and 53.—Petitions of J. C. Galbeaith and 27 Others, and E. J. Gill and 133 Others, of Tauranga. Petitioneks pray for increased road communication in the Tauranga district. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 26th July, 1892.

No. 170. —Petition of William Gareiok, of Swanson Street, Auckland. (Eeport No. 1.) Petitioner states that while in the military service of the colony he received a blow on the head, which has incapacitated him from earning a livelihood. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 28th July, 1892.

No. 130.—Petition of John Bell, of Auckland. Petitionee states that he sued James Swales for using insulting language to his wife, but the case was dismissed, and petitioner had to pay the costs. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee considers petitioner had his remedy by appealing, if he wished, from the decision of the Eesident Magistrate, and therefore has no recommendation to make. 28th July, 1892.

No. 47. —Petition of James Beatty, of Gisborne. Petitioner states that he acted as warder in the Government employ for nearly twenty-five years, and was discharged, but only received compensation for fourteen years' service. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th August, 1892.

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No. 22.—Petition of Henry B. Huddleston, of Marlborough. Petitioner states that the passing of " The Land Transfer Act, 1885," cancelled his license as a surveyor. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th August, 1892.

No. 85.—Petition of the Right Reverend W. G. Cowie, D.D., Bishop of Auckland. Petitioner prays for the abolition of the totalisator, &c. I am directed to report that, as it is a matter of policy, the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 4th August, 1892.

No. 189.—Petition of F. W. Cornwall, of New Plymouth. Petitioner states that he received serious permanent bodily injury at the Shelly Beach explosion. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the Government should, if possible, find some suitable employment at a fair remuneration for petitioner, and until such arrangement can be made, the petitioner should receive from the Government an allowance of £1 per week. 4th August, 1892.

No. 22.—Petition of H. B. Huddleston, of Marlborough. Petitioneb states that the passing of " The Land Transfer Act, 1885," cancelled his license as a surveyor. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th August, 1892.

No. 47. —James Beatty, of Gisborne. Petitioner states that he acted as warder in the Government employ for nearly twenty-five years, and was discharged, but only received compensation for fourteen years' service. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th August, 1892.

No. 80.—Petition of William N. Chambers, of Dunedin. Petitioner states that, after serving for twelve years in the service of the Railway Department, he was discharged on account of being over sixty years of age, without compensation. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 10th August, 1892.

No. 15. —Petition of Thomas Kennedy, Junior, of Auckland. Petitioneb states that he did not receive a proper notice of discharge from the Crown Lands Department, and prays for further compensation. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 10th August, 1892.

No. 111.—Petition of Isabella D. Hamlin, of Auckland. Petitioneb prays for a compassionate allowance on account of her late husband's service as Native interpreter. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 10th August, 1892. _

No. 20.—Petition of Robert Cruickshank, of Dunedin. Petitioner states that he was a ganger in the service of the Railway Department for twelve years, and was retired on account of old age without compensation. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 10th August, 1892.

No. 167.—Petition of J. G. Huntee, of the Bluff. Petitioner states that after nearly sixteen years' service-in the Railway Department as stationmaster, he was retired without compensation. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 10th August, 1892.

No. 19. —Petition of Gbobge Gbigg, of Dunedin. Petitioner states that he was a carriage painter and varnisher in the Hillside Railway Workshops, and was discharged on account of a reduction in the staff; he has not been able to obtain employment since. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petitioner be offered employment in the railway workshops when opportunity occurs. 10th August, 1892.

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No. 117. —Petition of Maey Febguson and 16 Others, of Kaitangata. Petitionees pray that the Kaitangata Belief Fund be used for the purposes for which it was subscribed, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the interests of the beneficiaries in the Kaitangata Belief Fund should be clearly protected in the Bill now before the House. 11th August, 1892.

No. 137. —Petition of Edwin L. Claeke, of Auckland. Petitionee prays that he be granted a rehearing of his case, Clarke v. Clarke, or a public inquiry into the matter. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 11th August, 1892.

No. 212.—Petition of Geoege Deyden and 54 Others, of Dunedin. Petitionees pray that the Sand-hills Bill be not passed without a clause referring the matter to the citizens of Dunedin. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion such a clause as that recommended by the petitioners should be inserted in the Bill. 18th August, 1892. '

No. 217.—Petition of E. Dawson and 12 Others, of Alexandra. Petitionees pray that an import duty of 3d. per lb. be placed on all green, sulphurised, and pulp fruit imported into New Zealand. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Manufactures and Industries Committee. 18th August, 1892.

No. 30.—Petition of Denis Fox, of Invercargill. Petitionee states that he was wrongly convicted of killing female seals, and.that two of his fingers were crushed by a roller while laying asphalt in the prison-yard. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the Government to grant petitioner a sum of £20 as compensation. 18th August, 1892.

No. 260. —Petition of W t illiam Fenton and 48 Others, of Wangaripo. Petitionees pray that the bridle-track between Matakana and Wangaripo be made into a drayroad. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Government for their consideration. 18th August, 1892.

No. 718, Sess. 11., 1891. —Petition of William Bogle, of Danevirk. Petitionee states that he was compelled to resign his position as stationmaster at Napier through being ordered to proceed to Balclutha on account of the health of his family. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim for compensation. 18th August, 1892.

No. 222.—Petition of William Beaumont and 122 Others, of Auckland. Petitionees pray that the Wesleyan Methodist Church Property Act 1887 Amendment Bill be not proceeded with until the Methodist people are acquainted with its provisions. I am directed to report that, as the measure has been before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 18th August, 1892.

No. 233.—Petition of Nicholas Feyday, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for an official inquiry into certain charges made against his character while in the Permanent Artillery of the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the prayer of the petitioner, asking for an official inquiry into certain charges made against his character, be granted. 18th August, 1892.

No. 190.—Petition of Geoege A. Allen, of Wellington. Petitionee states that he was dismissed from the Torpedo Corps for insubordination and absenting himself from duty without leave. Ho prays for reinstatement. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 23rd August, 1892.

No. 172.—Petition of Eichaed Caee, of Papakura. Petitioneb states that he lost an eye while in the service of the Eailway Department, and that he has suffered great hardship thereby. He prays for relief.

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I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 26th August, 1892.

No. 209.—Petition of John Campbell and 18 Others, of Southland. Petitioners pray for the construction by the Government of the Hunt's Eoad. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 30th August, 1892.

No. 258. —Petition of H. A. H. Hitohens, of Auckland. Petitioner alleges that he cured a Chinaman named Ah Goon of leprosy. Pie prays for a reward. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 30th August, 1892.

No. 13.—Petition of the Hon. John Bryce, of Waitotara. Petitioner prays that the vote of censure passed on him by the House may be expunged from the Journals of the House, &c. I am directed to report that, as the matter contained in the petition has already been dealt with by the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 30th August, 1892.

No. 242.—Petition of Nicholas B. Fryday, of Stratford. Petitioner alleges that his land at Stratford was too highly valued for taxation purposes by the Government, and that he was debarred from appearing before the Board of Eeviewers by not receiving his notice in time. He prays for relief. I aril directed to report that, as the petitioner had no opportunity of appearing before the Eeviewers' Court, the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 30th August, 1892.

No. 186.—Petition of G. S. Cooper, of Wellington. Petitioner states that he has been retired from the Civil Service on pension although he is still able and willing to perform his duties. He prays for further consideration on account of his long and faithful service. I am directed to report that the petition be referred to the Government. 30th August, 1892.

No. 312.—Petition of J. L. Chalmers, of Te Awamutu. Petitioner prays for compensation for loss of office as Inspector of Works in the Public Works Department. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 6th September, 1892.

No. 193.—Petition of P. M. Deighton and 20 Others. Petitioners pray for an amendment of the regulations for farm homestead associations as to compulsory residence on land taken up situated in dense bush country. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Government. 6th September, 1892.

No. 219.—Petition of Eussell Bates, of Dargaville. Petitioner states that he was informed that the price of certain lands he wished to take up would be ss. per acre, but that when he applied he had to pay 7s. 6d. per acre. He prays for redress. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 6th September, 1892.

No. 309. —M. E. Gardnrr and 186 Others, of Buller, Inangahua, and Grey Electorates. Petitioners pray that provision for the completion of the road between Westport and Greymouth be made on the estimates. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government. 6th September, 1892.

No. 285.—Petition of W. J. Lory and 24 Others, of Tautuku. Petitioners pray that the road from Tautuku Ford to Diggers' Creek may be made fit for traffic. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Government. 6th September, 1892.

No. 235. —Petition of Ebbbcca Beinkley, of Eotorua. Petitioner states that Section 141, Borough of Westport, was taken for railway purposes without payment of compensation. She prays for compensation.

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I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make, as they consider the petitioner has no claim upon the colony. 6th September, 1892.

No. 307. —Petition of J. D. Lance and 77 Others, of North Canterbury. Petitioners pray that the Government may bear half the cost of repairing the Lower Hurunui Bridge. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petition. 6th September, 1892.

No. 207.- —Petition of John Campbell, of Woonona, New South Wales. Petitioner alleges that he was unjustly treated by the Prov'ncial Government of Otago in 1874 in connection with his tender for a section of the Western Railways. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 6th September, 1892.

No. 21.—Petition of Eden George, of Christchurch. Petitioner states that, through a mistake made by the Eeturning Officer re the date for receiving nominations for the seat resigned by Mr. Perceval, he was put to great expense by having to pay the law-costs of an unsuccessful action brought by him to obtain the seat. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Government. 6th September, 1892.

No. 337. —Petition of Edward A. Haggen, of Woodville. Petitioner states that he was sued for libel, and committed for trial without being allowed to call witnesses for his defence, &c. He prays for an amendment of the law in respect to libel. I am directed to report that, as a Bill is now before Parliament relating to the law of libel, and the petitioner's case being now before the Supreme Court, the Committee cannot make any recommendation in this particular case. 6th September, 1892.

No. 306.—Petition of William Elias and 15 Others, of Wade. Petitioners pray that the Post and Telephone Office at Wade be removed from the charge of the local storekeeper, and that the Government should open a regular office. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 6th September, 1892.

No. 283. —Petition of James Green and 124 Others, of Waikouaiti District. Petitioners pray that the Government will construct the road from Seacliff to Puketeraki, as it passes through unrateable lands. I am directed to report that the Committee considers rates should be levied on such lands for road purposes, and therefore has no recommendation to make. 6th September, 1892.

No. 442.—Petition of Mrs. J. S. Gkaham, of Wairakei (No. 1\ Petitioner states that a Bill validating her title to a certain section of land has to be introduced as a private Bill instead of as a local Bill, and that she is unable to bear the expense of the same. She prays that the fees may be remitted. I am directed to report that, in consideration of all the circumstances surrounding this application, the Committee recommend the fees payable on this private Bill be remitted. (Vide also 1.-la.) Bth September, 1892.

No. 456. —Petition of James C. Hanna (on behalf of the Bank of New Zealand Estates Company, Limited). Petitioner prays that the Bank of New Zealand Estates Company (Limited), be allowed to make a deduction of £1,850,000 from their property-tax assessment, the said amount being represented by shares in the company held by the Bank of New Zealand. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the demand made by the Pro-perty-tax Department for property-tax from the Bank of New Zealand Estates Company (Limited), ought not in equity to be pressed, and therefore recommend the petition to the favourable consideration of the Government. 13th September, 1892.

Nos. 83, 112, 120, 147, 183, 188, 274. — Petitions of Margaret Lorimer and 18,724 Others, Martha Bailey and 59 Others, Mrs. Jarvie and 58 Others, Ellen Grand and 250 Others, Jane P. Kelly and 22 Others, Elizabeth Davis and 26 Others, Charlotte Hasell and 53 Others. Petitionbbs pray for the extension of the franchise to women. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition to the Government for their favourable consideration. 13th September, 1892.

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Nos. 106, 110, 140, 148, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 187, 205, 206, 208, 213, 214, 215, 224, 225, 226, 247, 252, 257, 269, 270, 273, 276, 293, 325, 326, 327, 328, 329, 330, 331, 332, 335, 355, 366, 367, 392, 441.—Petitions of John Christie and 250 Others, J. M. McKerrow and Others, Presbytery of Mataura, A. Greig and Others, Presbytery of Oamaru, James Pringle and Others, Thos. Eobertson and Others, J. J. Clark and Others, J. McGregor and Others, Jas. Gibson and Others, Neil Campbell and Others, A. B. Todd and Others, J. A. Luxford and Others, David Dunn, A. Dewdney and Others, E. Sornerville and Others, G. B. Inglis and Others, E. Smith and Others, E. Somerville and Others, J. F. Ayson and Others, Mary D. Dodds and Others, A. M. Finlayson and Others, W. S. Barnard and Others, D. Borrie and Others, P. Baxter and Others, J. N. Barr and Others, A. Quertier and Others, A. M. Dalrymple and Others, Jas. Skinner and Others, D. Sutherland and Others, G. Buchanan and Others, Win. Young and Others, D. M. Stuart, D.D., and Others, Emily Ferguson and Others, J. L. Shaw and Others, E. W. Isbister and Others, A. Stoneham and Others, G. E. Duncan and Others, Emily Wallace and Others, G. L. Denniston and Others, W. Will and Others, Amy Leigh and Others, J. Craigie and Others, M. M. Bradley and Others, J. Thompson and Others. Petitioners pray that the present Education Act be so amended as to permit the daily reading of the Bible in public schools within school-hours. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petitions be referred to the Government. 13th September, 1892.

No. 379. —Petition of Nicholas Bassi and 130 Others, of Ellesmere. Petitioners pray that, the Fisheries Conservation Act 1884 Amendment Bill be not passed. I am directed to report that the Committee recognise the importance of the fishing industry, and consider the time has arrived for protecting that industry, and therefore cannot recommend the prayer of the petition. 22nd September, 1892.

No. 296.—Petition of Patrick Glennan, of Owake. Petitioner prays that he be compensated for alleged wrongful imprisonment for criminal libel. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has not the slightest claim against the colony. 22nd September, 1892.

No. 336.—Petition of F. Jannett and 4 Others, of Hastwell. Petitioners pray that the railway-line between Mangamahoe aud Eketahuna may be fenced on both sides by the Government. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 22nd September, 1892.

No. 308. —Petition of William D. Leslie, of Waiau-ua. Petitioner states that a Crown grant was issued for certain land which subsequently became the property of petitioner; fourteen years afterwards a Crown grant was issued to some Natives for the land adjoining his, part of which overlapped the petitioner's property. He prays for redress. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that, as an error has been committed by issuing a second Crown grant for a portion of land already sold by the Government, steps should immediately be taken by the Government to rectify the error without forcing the petitioner into the law-courts. 22nd September, 1892.

No. 275. —Petition of John Leslie, of Wellington. Petitioner states that while working on the co-operative works at Pahiatua he had his foot shattered. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 27th September, 1892.

No. 37. —Petition of Eliza Ann Friedman, of St. Alban's. Petitioner prays that she may be granted a compassionate allowance on account of her late husband's services as bailiff. I am directed* to report that, as the Government has already dealt with the prayer of the petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make, but is of opinion that the department should not have dealt with the request while the petition was before the Committee. 27th September, 1892.

No. 426. —Petition of John Deverill, of New Plymouth. Petitioner states that through the Bailway Department delivering certain goods at Waverley instead of Patea he suffered great loss and inconvenience. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 27th September, 1892.

No. 170.—Petition of William Garrick, of Auckland. (Eeport No. 2.) Petitioner prays that ho may be granted a pension on account of injuries received while in the military service of the colony.

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The report on this petition having been referred back by the House for further consideration, I am directed to report that the Committee, having again received this petition, see no reason to alter the former report presented to the House on 28th July, 1892. 27th September, 1892.

No. 403.—Petition of Thomas Brown and 38 Others, of Waimate. Petitioners state, that J. E. Clement purchased certain lands in 1877, and, owing to a trig, station being wrongly marked on the map, he was not apportioned the exact sections he had selected, and has suffered great inconvenience thereby. They pray that relief be given. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the Crown should reconvey the land to J. E. Clement, at his own cost, and give him some reasonable access to his land. 29th September, 1892.

No. 382.—Petition of William Geary and 58 Others, of Portobello. Petitioners pray that the Otago Heads Eoad Board may be amalgamated with the Portobello Eoad Board. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that the prayer of the petition, re legislation being provided for the amalgamation of the Otago Heads Eoad Board with the Portobello Eoad Board, be referred to the Government for their favourable consideration. 27th September, 1892.

No. 486. —Petition of Worley Bassett Bdwaeds, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that his case may be inquired into, and that some redress may be granted him. I am directed to report that, in accordance with the wish of the Minister of Justice, the petition should be referred to the Public Accounts Committee to be dealt with by them. (For petition, vide J, -2.) 29th September, 1892.

No. 435. —Petition of Geoege Ayee and Others, of Eangitikei. Petitioners pray that a bridge may be built over the Eangitikei Eiver at Vinegar Hill, to give access to their land. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that a bridge be constructed over the Eangitikei Eiver, but with the evidence before them the Committee is unable to fix the site. 29th September, 1892.

No. 298.—Petition of Mabtin Hughes, of Invercargill. Petitionek states that he took a contract for fencing on the Lumsden-Mararoa Eailway ; but, through the severity of the winter, he was nineteen weeks over contract time, and had to pay a penalty of £140 for fourteen weeks at £10 per week. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, under all the circumstances, the Committee consider the penalty was excessive, and the department might reasonably have given a larger deduction in time than the live weeks allowed. 30th September, 1892.

No. 461. —Petition of John Cleghorn and 22 Others, of Christchurch. Petitioners'pray for the construction of about four miles and a half.of road to connect the Waikaka Valley with the Kelso-Pukerau main road. I am directed to report that the petition should be referred to the Government for their consideration. 30th September, 1892.

No. 132.—Petition of Mobgan Caekeek, of Otaki. Petitioner states that he took a contract to survey certain lands for the Wellington-Manawatu Bailway Company, but through delay by the Survey Department in passing his plans he has suffered considerable loss and inconvenience. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petitioner has, through the negligence of the Survey Department, suffered a wrong, and recommends his case to the favourable consideration of the Government. 30th September, 1892.

No. 345. —Petition of the Kihikihi Town Board and 61 Others. Petitioners pray for the construction of. a road from Kihikihi to the Waotu. I am directed to report that the petition should be referred to the Government with a view of ascertaining if the road could be constructed out of funds set apart for roads giving access to the North Island Main Trunk Eailway-line. 30th September, 1892.

No. 272. —Petition of Joseph Geimmond anu 4 Others, of Eoss. Petitioners state that they have settled on and greatly improved certain lands in the Borough of Eoss, and it is now proposed to vest such lands in the borough without compensating petitioners. They pray for relief. I km directed to report that the petition should be referred to the Government for their consideration. 30th September, 1892.

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No. 627. —Petition of Alexander Brodie, of Auckland. Petitioner states that while acting as a grand juror in Auckland he sustained a serious nervous affection. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion the petitioner has no claim whatever on the colony. sth October, 1892.

No. 369.---Petition of G. A. M. Luff, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for an inquiry into the circumstances of his discharge from the Public Works Department, &c. I am directed to report that there is no complaint whatever against Mr. Luff, but as he had accepted an agreement terminating his engagement at one month's notice, the Committee is unable to make any recommendation other than that he should be employed whenever a vacancy may occur. sth October, 1892.

No. 236.—Petition of Edward Hammond, of Auckland. Petitioner states that his services were dispensed with from the Native Land Court in May, 1891; he was reappointed, so as to enable him to qualify for a pension in December, 1892, but has received a notice that, through being dispensed with in 1891, he cannot qualify for a pension. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the prayer of the petition to the favourable consideration of the Government. 6th October, 1892.

No. 56. —Petition of Daniel Alabaster, of Wellington. Petitioner states that in 1864 the Provincial Government of Otago recommended that he should receive a grant of fifty acres of land for his services in saving the schooner " Star," and the lives of those on board, in 1856, but that he has never received such grant. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee are of opinion the recommendation of the Provincial Council of Otago in 1864 should be given effect to, or an equivalent paid to the petitioner. 6th October, 1892.

No. 314.—Petition of John King, of Auckland. Petitioner states that the last census returns of the Auckland district were badly compiled, and that some alteration in the law respecting the annual agricultural returns is needed. I am directed to report that the Committee, being satisfied with the departmental report thereon, have no recommendation to make. 6th October, 1892.

No. 721.—Petition of Mrs. J. S. Geaham, of Wairakei (No. 2). Petitionee prays that the report on her former petition, recommending that the fees payable on private Bills should be remitted in her particular case, be given effect to. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the prayer of the petition be granted, and that the Government be asked to give immediate effect to the report. (Vide also 1.-la.) 6th October, 1892.

Nos. 560 and 678. —Petition of George Fisher, of Eangiora. Petitioner prays that an inquiry be made into the circumstances which caused his dismissal from the railway service, &o. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 6th October, 1892.

No. 196. —Petition of Beginaed Fostee, of Christchurch. Petitionee states that he was retired from the Stock Department in 1891, and that his compensation was computed on his salary of £300 per annum, although nine months previously it had been £400 per annum. He prays for the balance of his compensation. I am directed to report that, considering all the circumstances re Mr. Foster's retirement from the service, the Committee is of opinion his compensation should be computed on the £400-per-annum salary. 7th October, 1892.

No. 302. —Petition of Mrs. W. J. Coates, of Greymouth. Petitionee states that she is the owner of certain land in Grey district, and that it has been taken for railway purposes without her being notified or compensated. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the sum of £40 be paid to the petitioner clear of all expenses. 7th October, 1892.

No. 365. —Petition of Eliza S. Gabeington, of New Plymouth. Petitioner prays that her late husband's pension may be, on account of his services to the colony, continued to her. 2—l. lα.

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I am directed to report that, owing to the services rendered by the late Wellington Carrington to the colony during the Native troubles, the Committee recommends the petition to the favourableconsideration of the Government. 7th October, 1892.

No. 729.—Petition of W. Feasee, Chairman, Waimakariri Harbour Board. Petitioneb prays for the remission of the Customs duty on the Board's dredging plant. I am directed to report that, as the machinery was imported purely for harbour improvements, the Committee recommends that the Government should refund the amount paid as duty. 7th October, 1892.

No. 404.—Petition of William E. Coxhead, of Hokianga. Petitionee states that after reading the Crown Lands Guide he purchased certain land, and contends that ho was thereby misled. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends to the favourable consideration of the Government the Crown Lands Commissioners' advice contained in his report—viz., that the petitioner be allowed to exchange his sections Nos. 1 and 2, for other sections, which are reserved for the experimental farms. 7th October, 1892.

No. 169, 1891.—Petition of Annie Chemis, of Kaiwara. Petitionee alleges that on the 14th July, 1889, her husband (Louis Chemis) was wrongfully convicted for the murder of one Thomas Hawkings. Petitioner prays that an inquiry may be made into all the circumstances in connection with the said conviction, .and that justice may be done to her husband. I am directed to report that, while the Committee has been unable to find sufficient evidence to justify them in advising any definite action, still it is of opinion that the case is one which should be carefully reconsidered, and therefore recommend the Executive to review the evidence taken by your Committee, and deal with the prisoner in such manner as they may consider true justice demands. [For Evidence, &c, vide Appendix 1.-Iβ.] 7th October, 1892.

No. 93. —Petition of W. Clack and Others, of Wellington. Petitionbes state that they believe serious wrongs have been inflicted upon one G. W. Ell by certain public officers and others. Petitioners pray that redress may be given and justice done to the said G. W. Ell. I am directed to report that the Committee has carefully considered the evidence. They have examined the Registrar of the Supreme Court, Christchurch, and Mr. G. W. Ell, and have arrived at the following conclusions : — 1. That the allegations made by G. W. Ell are, on all the main points, confirmed. 2. That the evidence of Mr. Bloxam, Eegistrar, Christchurch, was most unsatisfactory, and this official's action in not issuing correct documents to G. W. Ell on application, and in other ways, caused the said G. W. Ell an enormous monetary loss, and practically kept him in the Bankruptcy Court. 3. That G. W. Ell appears to have very large and valid claims against Mr. Leonard Harper,, but the Committee cannot devote their time to adjust accounts bstween them. 4. That the Committee is of opinion that a serious injustice to G. W. Ell has existed for many years in connection with this case, and recommend that Parliament and the Government should immediately afford any reasonable assistance to G. W. Ell, so that he may at least obtain justice. 5. Attached hereto is a copy of the evidence and exhibits produced before the Committee. [For Evidence, &c, vide Appendix 1.-lα] 7th October, 1892.

No. 416.—Petition of Lonabgan and Company, of Christchurch. Petitionees state that the Eailway Department declines to entertain a claim on account of damaged goods to the value of £30 os. lid. They pray for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the claim preferred is not one they can entertain. 7th October, 1892.

No. 631. —Petition of James D. K. Dickson of Dunedin. Petitioner states that through the law compelling bakers to give full weight in fancy bread, he has suffered loss. He prays for £730 compensation. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 7th October, 1893. Approximate Cost of Paper.— Preparation, nil; printing (1,260 copies), £6 17s.

By Authority : Geoboe Didsbuby, Government Printer, Wellington.—lB92, Price 6d.]