REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS M TO Z COMMITTEE. (Mr. MEREDITH, CHAIRMAN.)

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1894 Session I, I-02

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1894. NEW ZEALAND.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS M TO Z COMMITTEE. (Mr. MEREDITH, CHAIRMAN.)

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

INDEX.

X<JC JC. NEW ZEALAND. 1P0BTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS I TO Z COMMITTEE. (Ma. MEREDITH, CHAIRMAN.) Presented to the House of Representatives, and ordered to be printed. INDEX. No. Petitions, &c. Page. No. Petitions, &o. Page. 312 219 338 .389 299 A. All Nations Lodge, I.O.G.T. Amberley Advance Lodge, I.O.G.T. Anchor Line Lodge, I.O.G.T. Ark of Eden Lodge, I.O.G.T. Ark of Safety Lodge, I.O.G.T. 8 8 8 8 8 523 630 603 657 647 673 538 663 531 388 392 474 214 272 322 351 577 701 416 721 569 H. Haines, L., and Others .. Hall, W. H. V. .. Haselden, F., and Others .. Hearne, O. T., and Others Hegarth, A. S., and Others Henry, Margaret, and Others Higginson, E\, and Others Hogwood, James, and Others Holloway, E. M., and Others Hope of Albertland Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of Feilding Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of Harben Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of Hyde Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of the Cape Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of Whangarei Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of Winton Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hosking, F., and Others Hubble, J., and Others Hulbert, Margaret, and Others Hume, J. H. Hunter, Thomas, and Others 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 8 8 11 8 8 8 8 14 13 8 14 11 186 686 500 323 607 267 232 581 251 593 B. Baptist Church, Dunedin Bassett, J., and Others Bennett, Ward, and Others Black Diamond Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. Blackmore, H., and others Bond of Unity Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. Break of Day Lodge, I.O.G.T. Brook, J., and Another .. Burgeil, Matilda, and Others Burton, F. P., and Another 3 1,6 12 8 14 8 8 14 5 14 579 516 550 621 269 130 546 602 632 561 687 244 c. 14 12 u 14 8 2 14 14 14 12 14 8 Campbell, H. .. Canterbury Woman's Institute Carter, Charles W., and Others .. Chappell, James Chnstchurch District Lodge, I.O.G.T. Clark, A. M., and Others Oolhoun, J. L. .. Collins, W., and Others .. Connell, W. J., and Others Costal, J. A., and Others.. Crosbie, M. H. .. Crystal Spring Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. 485 545 532 608 103 590 342 J. Jacobs, Godfrey.. Jameson, F., and Others.. Johns, W. E. .. Jones, Sarah Jones, Thomas (No. 1) Jones, Thomas (No. 2) .. Jubilee Lodge, I.O.G.T. 9 14 14 14 8 V2 8 570 290 457 232 614 D. Davies, Charles, and Others Dayspring Lodge, I.O.G.T. Dearsley, Caroline Desire of Sydenham Lodge, I.O.G.T. Duckett, John, and Others 483 180 610 K. Kauri Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. .. .. Knox Church Young Woman's Association Kyst, F. W. 11 3 14 11 8 9 8 13 190 375 306 578 498 511 694 L. Ladies' Association of Knox Church, Dunedin Lifeboat Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. • .. Lily of the Valley Lodge, I.O.G.T. Lowe, F. E. Loyal Nelson Lodge, I.O.G.T. Lumsden to the Front Again Lodge, I.O.G.T. Lunn, John, and Others .. 4 8 8 14 11 11 10 536 631 377 129 517 337 E. Ellis, Howard, and Others Elmsley, F. Endeavour Lodge, I.O.G.T. Eruera Tara Whata and Others .. Evening Star Lodge, I.O.G.T. Excelsior Lodge, I.O.G.T. 14 14 8 4 11 8 227 468 516 479 229 594 512 514 486 261 369 294 265 F. Ferguson, Rev. J., and Others Forward Lodge, I.O.G.T. G. Garcia, Mrs., and Others General Gordon Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. General Haveloek Lodge, I.O.G.T. Gerrin, A., and Others Gillies, John H... Gilmore, P. J. .. Glossop, James Go-Ahead Lodge, I.O.G.T. Golden Stream Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. Good Hope Lodge, I.O.G.T. Good Intent Lodge, I.O.G.T. 5 11 12 11 8 14 13 11 9 8 8 8 8 114 456 706 568 318 637 310 279 640 177 407 626 295 38 660 98 357 M. Maodonald, Alexander Macdonald, T. K., and Others Macleay, Dugald Majoribanks, R. C, and Others Mariner's Pride Lodge, I.O.G.T. Marshall, J. T. .. Mathew, James E. McArtney, L. B. McCarthy, J., and Others MeClusky, Adam John MoConnell, Robert McConville, Patrick McCorley, John McCready, John .. .. MeCullum, James McDonnell, Thomas, Lieut.-Colonel McEwen, D. J. .. 3 9 15 11 8 14 5 5 13 4 10 12 6 7 15 9 7

X<JC JC. NEW ZEALAND. 1P0BTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS I TO Z COMMITTEE. (Ma. MEREDITH, CHAIRMAN.) Presented to the House of Representatives, and ordered to be printed. INDEX. No. Petitions, &c. Page. No. Petitions, &o. Page. 312 219 338 .389 299 A. All Nations Lodge, I.O.G.T. Amberley Advance Lodge, I.O.G.T. Anchor Line Lodge, I.O.G.T. Ark of Eden Lodge, I.O.G.T. Ark of Safety Lodge, I.O.G.T. 8 8 8 8 8 523 630 603 657 647 673 538 663 531 388 392 474 214 272 322 351 577 701 416 721 569 H. Haines, L., and Others .. Hall, W. H. V. .. Haselden, F., and Others .. Hearne, O. T., and Others Hegarth, A. S., and Others Henry, Margaret, and Others Higginson, E\, and Others Hogwood, James, and Others Holloway, E. M., and Others Hope of Albertland Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of Feilding Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of Harben Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of Hyde Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of the Cape Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of Whangarei Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hope of Winton Lodge, I.O.G.T. Hosking, F., and Others Hubble, J., and Others Hulbert, Margaret, and Others Hume, J. H. Hunter, Thomas, and Others 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 8 8 11 8 8 8 8 14 13 8 14 11 186 686 500 323 607 267 232 581 251 593 B. Baptist Church, Dunedin Bassett, J., and Others Bennett, Ward, and Others Black Diamond Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. Blackmore, H., and others Bond of Unity Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. Break of Day Lodge, I.O.G.T. Brook, J., and Another .. Burgeil, Matilda, and Others Burton, F. P., and Another 3 1,6 12 8 14 8 8 14 5 14 579 516 550 621 269 130 546 602 632 561 687 244 c. 14 12 u 14 8 2 14 14 14 12 14 8 Campbell, H. .. Canterbury Woman's Institute Carter, Charles W., and Others .. Chappell, James Chnstchurch District Lodge, I.O.G.T. Clark, A. M., and Others Oolhoun, J. L. .. Collins, W., and Others .. Connell, W. J., and Others Costal, J. A., and Others.. Crosbie, M. H. .. Crystal Spring Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. 485 545 532 608 103 590 342 J. Jacobs, Godfrey.. Jameson, F., and Others.. Johns, W. E. .. Jones, Sarah Jones, Thomas (No. 1) Jones, Thomas (No. 2) .. Jubilee Lodge, I.O.G.T. 9 14 14 14 8 V2 8 570 290 457 232 614 D. Davies, Charles, and Others Dayspring Lodge, I.O.G.T. Dearsley, Caroline Desire of Sydenham Lodge, I.O.G.T. Duckett, John, and Others 483 180 610 K. Kauri Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. .. .. Knox Church Young Woman's Association Kyst, F. W. 11 3 14 11 8 9 8 13 190 375 306 578 498 511 694 L. Ladies' Association of Knox Church, Dunedin Lifeboat Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. • .. Lily of the Valley Lodge, I.O.G.T. Lowe, F. E. Loyal Nelson Lodge, I.O.G.T. Lumsden to the Front Again Lodge, I.O.G.T. Lunn, John, and Others .. 4 8 8 14 11 11 10 536 631 377 129 517 337 E. Ellis, Howard, and Others Elmsley, F. Endeavour Lodge, I.O.G.T. Eruera Tara Whata and Others .. Evening Star Lodge, I.O.G.T. Excelsior Lodge, I.O.G.T. 14 14 8 4 11 8 227 468 516 479 229 594 512 514 486 261 369 294 265 F. Ferguson, Rev. J., and Others Forward Lodge, I.O.G.T. G. Garcia, Mrs., and Others General Gordon Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. General Haveloek Lodge, I.O.G.T. Gerrin, A., and Others Gillies, John H... Gilmore, P. J. .. Glossop, James Go-Ahead Lodge, I.O.G.T. Golden Stream Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. Good Hope Lodge, I.O.G.T. Good Intent Lodge, I.O.G.T. 5 11 12 11 8 14 13 11 9 8 8 8 8 114 456 706 568 318 637 310 279 640 177 407 626 295 38 660 98 357 M. Maodonald, Alexander Macdonald, T. K., and Others Macleay, Dugald Majoribanks, R. C, and Others Mariner's Pride Lodge, I.O.G.T. Marshall, J. T. .. Mathew, James E. McArtney, L. B. McCarthy, J., and Others MeClusky, Adam John MoConnell, Robert McConville, Patrick McCorley, John McCready, John .. .. MeCullum, James McDonnell, Thomas, Lieut.-Colonel McEwen, D. J. .. 3 9 15 11 8 14 5 5 13 4 10 12 6 7 15 9 7

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No. Petitions, &o. Page. 283 60 677 349 249 613 676 242 661 563 99 548 178 49 189 395 88 348 681 609 McGrath, Elizabeth, and Others Mclndoe, D. Mcintosh, W., and Others Mclntyre, William McKenzie, P., and Others MeKenzie, W. E., and Others McLeod and Shaw, and Others McNeil, Isabella, and Others McPherson, E. .. Middleton, H., and Others Millett, Thomas.. Milisop, J., and Others Ministers' Conference, Dunedin, and Others Moore, W.J... Moray Place, Congregational Church Morgan, Archibald Morgan, Eose Anna Morrison, John and Anne Munro, Eichard Murray, John 6 3 14 7 5 14 16 5 14 13 3 14 3 1 3 9 6 12 15 14 105 571 470 355 552 595 N. Nattrass, Luke Nelson Neville, Eobert, and Others New Era Lodge, I.O.G.T. New Eiver Pioneer Lodge, I.O.G.T. Newson, W. H., and Others New Zealand Educational Institute, Waikato Branch • Nicholson, Charles, jun., and Others Nil Desperandum Lodge, I.O.G.T. Norgrove, Horace Northern Pioneer Lodge, I.O.G.T. 6 11 11 8 14 14 379 358 553 347 7 8 12 8 438 417 423 604 582 674 35 537 246 574 336 127 665 o. Obelisk Lodge, I.O.G.T. O'Brien, Mary O'Connor, Michael O'Donaghue, D., and Others Ohlson, F. J., and Another Oldham, A., and Others Ollivier, Walter M. O'Neil, Cornelius, and Others Osborn, William, and Others Otago United Shipwrights' Society Our Mountain Home Lodge, I.O.G.T. Outram, John .. Owen, Alexander 8 10 11 14 14 14 2 11 5 12 8 3 12 530 678 403 P. 11 16 8 529 34 43 140 461 586 490 226 501 629 52 499 431 259 297 462 718 Pacey, Christina S. Palliser and Jones, and Others Pastor and Deacons of the Beresford Street Church, Auckland Peachey, Mary A. Peden, Margaret Peek, John Perritt, George, and Others Perseverance Lodge, I.O.G.T. Phillips, H., and Others .. Picton Lawn Tennis Club Pioneer Lodge, I.O.G.T. .. Pitches, John, and Others .. Plummer, Mary.. Plunket, Margaret Powle}', Eichard Premier Lodge, I.O.G.T. President Garfield Lodge, I.O.G.T. Pride of Southland Lodge, I.O.G.T. Pride of Wakanui Lodge, I.O.G.T. Purser, E. .. .. ... 11 3 2 4 11 14 10 8 10 14 4 11 8 8 8 11 14 465 292 670 255 713 102 328 671 378 675 1 253 633 346 335 513 R. 9 10 16 4 15 2 5 15 8 13 1 5 14 8 8 12 Eainbow and Sons Eeid, James, and Others Ehodes, George, and Others Ehodes, Charles, and Others Eiddle, William.. Eiesterer, Lorenz (No. 1).. Eiesterer, Lorenz, and Others liiesterer, Lorenz (No. 2) Eobert Bruce Lodge, I.O.G.T. Bobertson, Colin, and Others Eobinson, Eobert Eobinson, William, and Others Eooney, Emma, and Others Eose of Bunnythorpe Lodge, I.O.G.T. Eoyal Marine Lodge, I.O.G.T. Eunciman, Susan, and Others 237 s. 6 Saunders, Harry

No. Petitions, &e. Page. 398 10 625 634 268 591 151 532 489 362 368 30 329 89 435 128 4 181 231 296 590 162 308 344 240 383 239 527 184 156 551 615 305 243 601 672 353 82 316 316 Saunderson, W. L., and Others Schnackenberg, A. J., and Others.. Schoenberg, P. H. von Sharpe, N. W., and Others Shearman, E. C. Short, A., and Others Sim, B. B., and Others .. Simcock, John Simms, John William Smales, Gideon, Eev. Smith, Albert Smith, D. T. Smith, Ellen Smith, P., and Others Smith, Hugh, and Others Smith, James Smith, Janet Social Eeform Association, Dunedin Southern Cross Lodge, I.O.G.T. Southern Light Lodge, I.O.G.T. Spence, J. C. .. Squires, Mary Ann, and Another Standard Lodge, I.O.G.T. Star of Freedom Lodge, I.O.G.T. Star of Newtown Lodge, I.O.G.T. Star of the North Lodge, I.O.G.T. Star of Wellington Lodge, I.O.G.T. Star of Newton Lodge Stevens, Edward, and Others Stewart, George Vesey Stewart, E. D., and Others Stewart, William, and Others St. John's Lodge, I.O.G.T. Stott, Abraham Stroud, Henry Sullivan, W., and Others.. Sutton, John, and Others Swan, G. H., and Others.. Symons, A.J... Symons, Louisa.. 7 1 13 12 7 14 6 13 10 9 7 10 7 3 8 3 2 3 & 8 1*1 8 8 8 8 8 8 11 4 5 14 13 8 5 12 14 8 6 6 6 T. 10 8 16 3 8 8 13 9 2 442 162 679 193 354 224 520 287 11 Tautari, Mrs. Mary Taylor, Edward, and Another Trevor, James, and Others Trinity Wesley Church, Dunedin True Blue Lodge, I.O.G.T. Try-again Lodge, I.O.G.T. Turnbull, E. .. Turner, James .. Twomey, J. M., and Others u. Undaunted Lodge, I.O.G.T. 8 250 730 V. Vernon, C. S., and Others 15 430 343 658 124 385 14 493 324 432 575 257 129 241 330 153 327 495 698 583 45 137 182 720 25 547 572 212 w. Waianuia Lodge, I.O.G.T. Waihemo Lodge, I.O.G.T. Waite, James J... Walls, Elizabeth Walsh, Henry Webb, W. W. .. Websber, E. F., and Others Welcome-all Lodge, I.O.G.T. Welcome Eetreat Lodge, I.O.G.T. West Coast Pioneer Lodge, I.O.G.T. Whariti Lodge, I.O.G.T. Whata, E. T., and Others Whittington, James Wild, H. E., and Others Wilkinson, Louisa Williams, John, and Others Williams, Walter Wilson, H. B., and Others Wilson, T., and Others Witty, J. W. .. Woman's Christian Temperance Union Woman's Franchise League, Dunedin Wood, A. E., and Others.. Woodroofe, G. W., and Others Worsley, W. H., and Others Worthington, Henry, and Others Wray, Fanny B. 8 8 14 2 7 2 10 8 8 11 8 4 6 7 6 5 11 14 14 3 2 3 15 1 14 11 4 76 191 Y. Young, Henry Charles Young Women's Christian Association, Dunedin 4 3

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1894. NEW ZEALAND.

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

ORDER OE REFERENCE. Extract from the Journals of the House of Representatives. t2Cth Day of June, 1894. Ordered, " That a Public Petitions M to Z Committee, consisting of ten members, be appointed to consider all petitions that may be referred to it by the Petitions Classifications 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. Collins, Mr. Earnshaw, Mr. Praser, Mr. Lang, Mr. McNab, Mr. Meredith, Mr. Morrison, Mr. E. M. Smith, Mr. Willis, and the mover." —(Hon. Mr. Reeves.)

No. 25. —Petition of G. W. Woodboofe and 92 Others, of Masterton. Petitionees state that the Borough of Masterton contains a very large area of farming land upon which the owners have to pay rates levied for improvements in the town portion. Petitioners pray that the boundaries be so altered as to exclude from the borough those lands which derive no benefit from such rates. I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion the petition should be referred to the Government, with a recommendation that the Municipal Corporations Act be amended in the direction set out in the petition. 6th July, 1894.

No. 10. —Petition of A. J. Schnackenbebg and 14 Others. Petitionees pray that the age of consent be raised to eighteen years. I am directed to report that, as the matter refers to a question of policy, the Committee recommends the petition to the Government for consideration. 6th July, 1894.

No. 49. —Petition of William John Mooee, of Wellington. Petitionee states that he joined the Armed Constabulary in September, 1881, and that his services as storekeeper were dispensed with on the 31st March, 1894, without compensation. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petitioner should receive compensation based, firstly, on the practice prevailing up to the date of letter minuted by the Hon. Minister of Defence, on 25th June, 1887, and secondly, thereafter on the terms expressed in the said letter. 17th July, 1894.

No. I.—Petition of Eobeet Bobinson, of Wellington. Petitionee states that he joined the Armed Constabulary in the year 1872, and that on the 31st of May, 1894, his services as arms-cleaner were dispensed with, and that he did not receive any compensation. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petitioner should receive compensation, based, firstly, on the practice prevailing up to the date of letter minuted by the Hon. Minister of Defence, on the 25th of June, 1887, and secondly, thereafter on the terms expressed in the said letter. 17th July, 1894. I—l. 2.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC PETITIONS M TO Z COMMITTEE (Mb. MEREDITH, CHAIRMAN.)

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No. 4.—Petition of Janet Smith, of Sydenham. Petitionee states that her late husband was employed for seventeen years as boilermaker in the railway service, and that his death was accelerated by the work upon which he was employed. She prays for compassionate allowance or other relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 18th July, 1894.

No. 124.—Petition of Elizabeth Walls, of Sydenham. Petitionee states a certain piece of land at Okahu was bequeathed to her by her brother without her knowledge, and that the said land was sold by the Hobson County Council for non-payment of rates. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. , 18th July, 1894.

No. 43. —Petition of John Peek, of Marlborough. Petitionee states that he had to resign his position of guard in the railway service through failing health after twenty years 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. 18th July, 1894,

No. 11.—Petition of J. M. Twomey and 121 Others, of Canterbury. Petitionees pray that the regulations prohibiting fishing in the Milford Lagoon with nets be cancelled. 1 am directed to report that the Committee recommends the prayer of the petition be not granted. 18th July, 1894.

No. 130. —Petition of A. M. Claek and 495 Others, of Geraldine County. Petitionees pray that the regulations of the Geraldine Acclimatisation Society, prohibiting fishing with nets, be not interfered with. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of the petition has been dealt with by refusing to grant the prayer of the petition of J. M. Twomey and others, the Committee has no further recommendation to make. 18th July, 1894,

No. 137. —Petition of The Women's Cheistian Tempeeance Union, Dunedin. Petitionees pray that the age of consent be raised to sixteen years, and that clause 196 of the Criminal Code Act be amended, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 18th July, 1894.

No. 35.—Petition of Waltee M. Olliviee, of Christchurch. Petitionee states that after nearly twenty-eight years service in the Bailway Department he was dispensed with at three months' notice, without the option of being transferred to another branch of the 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. 19th July, 1894.

No. 14.—Petition of William Washington Webb, of West Oxford. Petitionee states that he served in the Bailway Department as guard, &c, for nearly twenty-two years; that on the Ist November, 1893, he was dismissed for an alleged breach of the railway regulations, in allowing a passenger to travel without paying the fare ; that there were extenuating circumstances for his doing so. He prays to be reinstated or to receive compensation. I am directed to report that, while admitting the necessity of punishment in this case, the Committee express a hope that the Bailway Commissioners may see their way to find employment for petitioner in a lower grade. 19th July, 1894.

No. 102.—Petition of Loeentz Beisteeee, of Hokianga, Auckland. Petitionee states that certain deferred-payment land held by him at Hokianga has been forfeited by the Auckland Land Board for non-fulfilment of improvement conditions. He prays for relief, or that the land may be restored to him. I am directed to report that the petition should be referred to the Waste Lands Committee. 20th July, 1894.

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No. 89.—Petition of Feedeeick Smith and 46 Others, in the Huia District, Auckland. Petitionees draw attention to the urgent need of roads, bridges, and a public wharf in their district. I am directed to report that, as the matter of the petition refers to the Public Works policy of the Government, the petition should be referred to the Government. 20th July, 1894.

No. 60.—Petition of David Molndoe, of Epsom, Auckland, Nurseryman. Petitionee states that he is the holder of a Hospital Endowment Lease, Lot 24, Section 6, Epsom Boad Board District. That the petitioner greatly improved the said land in many ways. That upon the expiration of his first lease the upset rental was increased from £5 ss. per acre per annum to £12 6s. per acre per annum. That he had only three weeks' notice of such an increase, and had no chance of selling his nursery stock. That he cannot make a living out of the land at the increased rent. He prays for relief. I have to report that the Committee have no recommendation to make. 20th July, 1894.

No. 128.—Petition of James Smith, of Wellington, late Arms-cleaner. Petitionee states that he has been Arms-cleaner at the Defence Store Department, Wellington, for twenty-seven years, and on the 31st of May, 1894, he was compulsory retired. He claims compensation. I am directed to report that the petition having been already dealt with by the Government, the Committee have no recommendation to make. 20th July, 1894.

No. 45.—Petition of James William Witty, of Gisborne, Secretary, Gisborne Harbour Board. Petitionee sets out details of his military services, and asks that his case be taken into consideration by the House. I "am directed to report that the Committee have no recommendation to make. 20th July, 1894.

No. 127. —Petition of John Outeam, of Dunedin. Petitionee states that in the year 1878 he was granted a pension of £188 per annum; that in the year 1890 the said pension was not again voted by the House. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, while fully admitting the absence of any legal claim on the part of the petitioner, nevertheless the Committee thinks he has some claim to consideration on account of what amounts to a moral obligation having been entered into in the year 1878, when he was granted a gratuity of £188 per annum, which moral obligation the Committee considers would be met by granting the petitioner the sum of £50 per annum. 25th July, 1894.

No. 34. —Petition of Maegaeet Peden, of Dunedin. Petitionee states that her late husband died while in the employ of the Bailway Department, and that she has lately broken her leg. She prays for a compassionate allowance. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 25th July, 1894.

No. 114.—Petition of Alexandee McDonald, of Westport. Petitionee states that he performed'services to the colony by prospecting for gold, and forming roads thereto, and by being employed as overseer in the Public Works Department, &c. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 25th July, 1894.

No. 99.—Petition of Thomas Millett, of Thames. Petitionee states that in the year 1864 he came to the colony, paying his own and wife's passagemoney. That upon arrival he applied for the usual land-grant of 40 acres each and was refused the same. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that in the event of the petitioner being able to prove to the satisfaction of the Government that he paid his own and wife's passage-money to Auckland in 1864, the Committee recommends the prayer of the petition be granted, notwithstanding his being unable to produce the necessary land-order. 26th July, 1894.

Nos. 178, 180, 181, 182, 186, 189, 190, 191, and 193, Petitions of the Ministers' Conference, of Dunedin ; Knox Church Young Women's Association, Dunedin ; Social Reform Association, of Dunedin; Women's Franchise League, of Dunedin; Baptist Church, Dunedin ; Moray Place Congregational Church, Dunedin; Ladies' Association of Knox Church, Dunedin; Young Women's Christian Association, Dunedin; and Trinity Wesley Church, Dunedin. Petitionees pray that the age of consent be raised to not less than sixteen years. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitions should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 26th July, 1894.

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No. 52. —Petition of Margaret Plunkett, of Wellington. Petitioner states that after twenty-nine years' service as charwoman in the Government Buildings she was dismissed at seven days' notice without compensation. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. Ist August, 1894.

No. 76. —Petition of Henry Charles Young, of Wellington. Petitioner states that through the malpractices of one Leonard Harper, and certain others acting in concert with him, he was deprived of a certain property called " Middleton," belonging to him, and valued at £15,000, and that in the litigation instituted by him to recover his property, or compensation for it, he was by the said malpractices debarred from obtaining any redress by legal proceedings. He prays that an Empowering Act may be passed so as to enable him to take legal proceedings against any person, firm, or corporation for the recovery of his said property. I am directed to report that, having considered the petition of Henry Charles Young, the Committee is of opinion that a grievous injustice and wrong has been done to the petitioner by certain firms doing business in Christchurch, and that a miscarriage of justice has taken place in his case. The Committee therefore recommends that an Empowering Act bo passed to enable the petitioner to again take his case into Court. 2nd August, 1894.

No. 212. —Petition of Eanny Beales Wray, of Waitara. Petitioner states that in August, 1890, she became transferee, by purchase from the Public Trustee, of Section 44, Block VI., Waitara Survey District. That in February, 1893, petitioner made application for a new lease under " The West Coast Settlements Eeserves Act, 1892." On the said application being granted petitioner found that she would be charged for certain improvements made between the dates of the application and the valuation made under the said Act by the Public Trustee. That such valuation is excessive, and that petitioner considers her case one of great hardship. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee, having carefully considered the petition, regards the case as one of great hardship, and is of opinion that clause 8, section 3, subsection (I.) of " The West Coast Settlements Beserves Act, 1892," should be amended so as to provide for the valuation of improvements as at the date of the lessee's application instead of the later date mentioned in the said subsection (I.), and that the Governor in Council be recommended to prescribe regulations for the direction of the Public Trustee in connection with the valuation of all improvements. 3rd August, 1894.

No. 177. —Petition of Adam John McClusky, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that he be granted the usual compensation on account of having been discharged from the Prisons and Police Departments, as he is in ill-health and without means. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has no claim upon the colony. 3rd August, 1894.

No. 184.—Edward Stevens and 224 Others, of Ashburton. Petitioners pray that the regulations of the Ashburton Acclimatisation Society, prohibiting fishing with nets, be not interfered with. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th August, 1894.

No. 129.—Petition of Eruera Tara Whata and 66 Others, of Temuka. Petitioners pray that Europeans be not allowed to net fish in the rivers of the Geraldine County in which their eel-weirs are situated. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th August, 1894.

No. 255.—Petition of Chas. Ehodes and 70 Others, of Hunua. Petitioners pray for greater facilities in order to reach the railway in the Hunua district by way of roads, and suggest a scheme whereby the settlers would give free labour to the value of £ 50 to form the roads, and the Government a subsidy of £2 to £1 to metal the same. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th August, 1894.

No. 140.—Petition of George Perrit and 47 Others, of Henderson and Swanson. Petitioners pray for a grant of £500 to repair the portion of the Great North Boad lying within the Eden electorate. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th August, 1894.

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No. 253.—Petition of Wm. Bobinson and 221 Others, of Waipawa. Petitioners pray that " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Amendment Act, 1893," be so amended as to prohibit the conveyance of alcoholic liquors into prohibited districts by private conveyance, public carriers, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 9th August, 1894.

Nos. 242 and 251.—Petition of Isabella McNeil and 290 Others, and Matilda Burgell and 62 Others, of Auckland. Petitioners pray that "The Contagious Diseases Act, 1869," may be repealed. I am directed to report that, as there is a Bill now before Parliament dealing with the subjectmatter of the petitions the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th August, 1894.

No. 227. —Petition of the Bev. J. Ferguson and 65 Others, of Invercargill. Petitioners pray that the age of consent may be raised to not less than sixteen years. I am directed to report that, as there is a Bill now before Parliament dealing with the subjectmatter of the petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th August, 1894.

No. 156. —Petition of George Vesey Stewart, of Katikati. Petitioner states that he was a candidate for the Bay of Plenty district at the last general elections, and, although he polled only one-fifth of a vote short of the number required to entitle him to the return of his £10 deposit, the said deposit was forfeited by the Government. He prays for the return of his deposit. I -am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 9th August, 1894.

No. 246.—Petition of William Osborne and 16 Others, of Motatau. Petitioners pray for the construction of a road from the Kawakawa Bridge to Section 19, Block VIII., Motatau Survey District. I am directed to report that, as the prayer of the petition is a matter of Government policy, the Committee recommends it be referred to the Government for consideration. 10th August, 1894.

No. 328. —Petition of L. M. Beisterer and 29 Others, of Motukaraka. Petitioners pray that the road leading through Motukaraka to Kohukohu along the river-side may be formed as early at possible. I am directed to report that, as the prayer of the petition is a matter of Government policy, the Committee recommends it be referred to the Government for consideration. 10th August, 1894.

No. 279. —Petition of Laura B. McArtney and 1,946 Others, of Nelson. Petitioners pray that " The Public Health Act, 1876," be amended so as to render vaccination voluntary for parents who object to submit their children to the dangers thereof. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 10th August, 1894.

Nos. 310 and 327.—Petition of James E. Mathew and 13 Others, and John Williams and 29 Others, of Omaha. Petitioners pray that the Omaha Village Settlement wharf may be connected with the county main road. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 10th August, 1894.

No. 249.—Petition of F. Mackenzie and 711 Others, of Bay of Islands and Hikurangi Districts. Petitioners pray for the construction of a line of railway to connect the Hikurangi-Whangarei line with the Kawakawa-Opua line, so as to open up the coal-beds, &c, in the districts. I am directed to report that, as the prayer of the petition is a matter of Government policy, the Committee recommends it be referred to the Government for consideration. 10th August, 1894.

No. 243.—Petition of Abraham Stott, of Wellington. Petitioner prays for a grant of land for volunteer services rendered. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner has already received a grant of land for military services, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 10th August, 1894. 2—l. 2.

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No. 283. —Petition of Mrs. Elizabeth McGrath and 10 Others, of Dunedin. Petitioners pray that the age of consent be raised to not less than sixteen years, &c. I am directed to report that, as there is a Bill dealing with the matter now before Parliament, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 10th August, 1894.

No. 105. —Petition of Luke Nelson Nattrass, of Pitone. Petitioner states that while engaged upon the erection of a telegraph-line for the Post and Telegraph Department he so injured his hand that he was unfit for work for twelve months, thereby incurring great loss. He prays that some suitable employment be found him by the Government. I am directed to report that, considering the petitioner was under hospital treatment for three months, and partially disabled for twelve months, the Committee considers the amount (£10) granted him by the department totally inadequate as compensation for injuries received and loss sustained, and recommends the department to comply with the prayer of the petition, and place him in permanent employment. 14th August, 1894.

Nos. 82 and 151.—Petition of G. H. Swan and 701 Others, and B. B. Sim and 30 Others, of Hawke's Bay. Petitioners pray that the main road connecting Napier, Wairoa, and Gisborne may be completed. I am directed to report that, as the prayer of the petitions is a question of Government policy, the Committee recommends they be referred to the Government for consideration. 14th August, 1894.

No. 153.—Petition of Mrs. Louisa Wilkinson, of Palmerston North. Petitioner states that her late husband was in the employ of the Mines Department, and that he died on 'the 26fh October, 1887, and petitioner alleges that the sum of £120 compensation, and £70 os. lOd. overtime, were, at the time of his decease, owing to him. She prays that these amounts be paid to her. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 14th August, 1894.

No. 241. —Petition of James Whittington, of Woolston. Petitioner states that his hotel, the Courteny Arms, was, on the 30th Juno, 1894, closed under the provisions of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," whereby he has suffered great loss. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused his hotel license through the operation of "The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 14th August, 1894.

No. 237.—Petition of Harry Saunders, of Christchurch. Petitioner states that through the provisions of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," his hotel, the Albert, was, on the 30th June, 1894, closed, whereby he has suffered great loss and hardship. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused the renewal of his hotel license through the operation of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers the petitioner has no claim upon the colony. 14th August, 1894.

No. 295. —Petition of John McCorley, of Balelutha. Petitioner states that, through the closing of his hotel on the 30th June, 1894, under "The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," he has suffered great loss and hardship. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused his hotel license through the operation of "The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 14th August, 1894.

No 88.-—Petition of Eose Anna Morgan, of Wanganui. Petitioner states that her husband was killed on the Wanganui Wharf, while loading the s.s. " Stormbird" with wool, by a bale being tipped out of a cart and falling into the hold upon him. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the absence of more complete information, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 14th August, 1894.

No. 316.—Petition of Louisa Symons and Arthur John Symons, of Palmerston North. Petitioners pray that the legacy devised to the petitioner, Arthur John Symons, by the late Mrs. J. P. B. Wright, and now in the hands of the Public Trustee, be paid to him. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend that the prayer of the petitioner be granted. 15th August, 1894.

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No. 2GB.—Petition of Boreet Claeke Shearman, of Tauranga. Petitioner prays that some further compensation be granted on account of his services having been dispensed with as Inspector of Police in the year 1888. I am directed to report that the Committee, having considered the case of the petitioner, confirms the decision arrived at by a former Committee—viz., That the petitioner has been liberally dealt with, and that he has no further claim against the colony. 15th August, 1894.

No. 38.'—Petition of John McCready, of Ohingaite. Petitioner prays that an amount of £12 175., stayed by an order of the Magistrate's Court out of a co-operative works contract payment, may be paid to him. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 15th August, 1894.

No. 329. —Petition of Ellen Smith, of Taratahi. Petitioner prays that "The Public Trust Office Acts Amendment Act, 1891," be so amended as to empower and direct the Public Trustee to pay to the petitioner the residue of the estate of her late husband. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that in the legislation now before the House provision should be made to bring under the operation of the Act the cases of all persons dying before the coming into operation of " The Public Trust Office Acts Amendment Act, 1891," and whose estates are now in the hands of the Public Trustee. 15th August, 1894.

No. 379.—Petition of Charles Nicholson, Jun., and 259 Others, of Moa Plat and District. Petitioners pray that a sum of money may be placed on the public-works estimates to erect a bridge over the Clutha Biver, at Miller's Plat. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 15th August, 1894.

No. 368.—Petition of Albert Smith and 56 Others, of Pomohaka Downs. Petitionees pray for Government assistance towards the cost of placing a punt on the Molyneux Biver, at Pomohaka. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 15th August, 1894.

No. 349. —Petition of William Mclntyre, of Kaitara. Petitioner prays that he be granted employment in some position of trust under Government on account of his many services to the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 21st August, 1894.

No. 385.—Petition of Henry Walsh, of Wairoa. Petitioner prays for a grant of £30 for services rendered in the New Zealand Forces. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 21st August, 1894

No. 357. —Petition of Daniel James McEwen, of Kaipara. Petitioner states that he is the lessee of a block of land known as Paparoa; that he leased the said land believing he could purchase the same at any time; that the land was at that time the property, by virtue of a Crown grant, of the late Te Keene Tangaroa, but after his death the land was claimed by forty-seven Natives, who refused to allow the right of purchase by petitioner. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Native Affairs Committee. 21st August, 1894.

No. 330.—Petition of H. E. Wild and 194 Others, of Coromandel. Petitioners pray that Mr. Bochliff, who has for twenty years been head teacher of the Driving Creek Public School, be not removed therefrom, as proposed by the Auckland Education Board. I am directed to report that the action of the Auckland Education Board in deciding to remove Mr. Bochliff, master of the Driving Creek Public School, was within its administrative rights, and therefore the Committee has no recommendation to make. 21st August, 1894. •

No. 398.—Petition of W. Lowe Sanderson and 25 Others, of Puhoi. Petitioners pray for a grant of £250 to widen a portion of the Puhoi-Makarau Boad. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 21st August, 1894.

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No. 103.—Petition of Thomas Jones, of Peilding (No. 1). Petitionee prays for the removal of the trustees of his assigned estate, and that it be placed in the hands of the Public Trustee, and also that other relief be granted him. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, the petitioner has no claim upon the colony. 22nd August, 1894.

No. 392. —Petition of the Hope oe Peilding Lodge, 1.0.G.T., of Peilding, and 56 Similar Petitions, as per Attached Schedule. Petitioners pray for an amendment of the laws affecting the liquor-traffic. I am directed to report that, as the Government has given notice of the introduction of an Act to amend " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," during the present session of Parliament, the Committee is of opinion that the petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 22nd August, 1894. —

Schedule of 56 Petitions praying for an Amendment of the Laws affecting the Liquor-traffic.

No. 416.—Petition of Margaret Hulbert and 24 Others, of Auckland. Petitioners pray that " The Contagious Diseases Act, 1869," may be repealed. I am directed to report that, as there is now a Bill before Parliament dealing with the matter of the petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 24th August, 1894.

No. 435. —Petition of Hugh Smith and Others, of Whangaripo. Petitioners pray for a grant to improve the roads in the Whangaripo Valley and the MatakanaTe Arai Boad. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 24th August, 1894.

No. 162.—Petition of Edwaed Taylor and Mary Ann Squires, of Sydenham. Petitioners pray for an amendment of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," and that they be reimbursed certain legal costs incurred by them in testing the legal status of clause 21 of the said Act. I am directed to report that, in the matter of this petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 24th August, 1894.

No. 353. —Petition of John Sutton and 10 Others, of Waimea. Petitionees pray that a sum of money be placed on the estimates to provide a cart-road to the Bentoul district. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 24th August, 1894.

No. 403.- —Petition of the Pastoe and Deacons, Beresford Street Church, Auckland. Petitionees pray that the age of consent be raised to not less than sixteen years, &c. I am directed to report that, as there is a Bill now before Parliament dealing with the matter of the petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 24th August, 1894.

No. Name of Lodge. No. Name of Lodge. No. Name of Lodge. 21/1 219 «24 220 229 231 232 239 240 244 250 257 259 261 265 267 269 272 282 Hope of Hyde Amberley Advance Try Again Pioneer General Havelock Southern Cross Desire of Sydenham Star of Wellington Star of Newtown Crystal Spring Undaunted Whariti President Garfield Go-ahead Good Intent Bond of Unity Christchurch District Hope of the Cape Break of Day I.O.G.T. 290 294 296 297 299 305 306 308 312 318 322 323 324 335 336 337 338 342 343 Day Spring Good Hope Southern Light Pride of Southland Ark of Safety St. John's Lily of the Valley Standard All Nations Mariner's Pride Hope of Whangarei Black Diamond Welcome All Eoyal Marine Our Mountain Home Excelsior Anchor Line Jubilee Waihemo I.O.G.T. 344 346 347 351 354 355 358 369 375 377 378 383 388 389 430 431 432 438 Star of Freedom I.O.G.T. Eose of Bunnythorpe Northern Pioneer „ Hope of Winton True Blue „ New Eiver Pioneer „ Nil Desperandum „ Golden Stream „ Lifeboat Endeavour „ Eobert Bruce „ Star of the North „ Hope of Albertland „ Ark of Eden Waianuia „ Premier „ Welcome Eetreat „ Obelisk

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No. 287.—Petition of James Turner, of Wainuioru. Petitioner prays that he be granted compensation for extra duties performed by him while employed as night watchman in the Government Buildings. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 24th August, 1894.

No. 98. —Petition of Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas McDonnell, of Wellington. Petitionee prays that employment, or an adequate pension, be granted him, on account of the many services rendered by him to the colony during the late Native troubles. I am directed to report that the Committee is satisfied, from the evidence given by the petitioner, and admitted by the Defence Department, that the petitioner rendered most valuable services to the colony during the Maori troubles, for which petitioner has been paid the sum of £400 as compensation in full satisfaction thereof, besides a year's leave of absence in England on full pay; the Committee, however, in further recognition of his services, recommends the Government to give petitioner employment for which he is suitable, if opportunity offers. 28th August, 1894.

No. 485.—Petition of Godfrey Jacobs, of Dunedin. Petitionee states that, through the operation of "The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," he was refused the renewal of his hotel license for the Bull and Mouth Hotel. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused the renewal of his hotel license through the operation of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers he has no claim against the colony. 28th August, 1894.

No. 486.—Petition of James Geossop, of North-east Valley, Dunedin. Petitioner states that through the operation of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," he was refused the renewal of his license for the Sunnydale Hotel. He prays for compensation. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused the renewal of his hotel license through the operation of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers he has no claim against the colony. 28th August, 1894.

No. 457.-—Petition of Caeoline Deaesley, of Woodend, Christchurch. Petitionee states that, through the operation of "The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," she was refused the renewal of her hotel license for the White Crane Hotel. She prays for relief. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused the renewal of her hotel license through the operation of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers she has no claim against the colony. 28th August, 1894. '

No. 465. —Petition of Bainbow and Sons, of Christchurch. Petitionees pray that hawkers of patent medicines may be exempted from the operation of the Hawkers' Licenses Bill. I am directed to report that, as there is a Bill now before Parliarment dealing with the subject-matter of the petition, the Committee recommends that it be referred to the Government for consideration. 28th August, 1894.

No. 395. —Petition of Archibald Morgan, of Christchurch. Petitioner prays that he may be granted compensation for loss of office as Drill Instructor to the Canterbury Volunteers. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend that the prayer of the petition be granted. 29th August, 1894.

No. 456.—Petition of T. K. Macdonald and 1,499 Others, of Wellington. Petitioners pray that the Wellington City Drainage Empowering Bill now before Parliament may be amended, so as to render the taking of a poll of the ratepayers necessary. I am directed to report that, as the Bill is now before Parliament, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th August, 1894.

No. 362.—Petition of the Bev. Gideon Smales, of East Tamaki, of Auckland. Petitioner states that ever since the year 1840 he has rendered most valuable services to the Government in connection with the Natives, &c, and that during the Maori wars he suffered great loss of cattle, and endured hardships in the interest of the colony. He prays that now, in his old age, he may be granted relief. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 29th August, 1894.

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No. 493. —Petition of B. P. Webster and 49 Others, of Pukekohe. Petitioners pray that the district around Pukekohe may be declared a township within the boundaries described. I am directed to report that, pending legislation about to be introduced affecting the matter, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 29th August, 1894.

No. 407. —Petition of Bobert McConnell, of Dunedin. Petitioner states that on the 12th May, 1894, he was wrongfully arrested and illtreated by two constables in Dunedin, whereby he has suffered loss and bodily harm. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, from the evidence adduced, this Committee is of opinion that an inquiry by a Stipendiary Magistrate should be instituted into all the circumstances of the case, and begs to report to that effect. 29th August, 1894.

No. 442.—Petition of Mrs. Mary Tautari, of Bay of Islands. Petitioner states that her late husband mortgaged a piece of land with a residence thereon to the Government for £300, to be paid off in instalments, of which the sum of £160 still remains to be paid, which petitioner is unable to do. She prays that she be granted the relief which has been extended to similar cases. I am directed to report that the evidence adduced before this Committee clearly shows that it was never intended to insist on the repayment of the money lent to petitioner's husband on mortgage ; this Committee is therefore of opinion that the prayer of the petition should be granted. 4th September, 1894.

No. 292. —Petition of James Beid and 24 Others, of Sanson. Petitioners pray that the title to the Township of Livingston may be granted to them. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petition should be referred to the Waste Lands Committee. 4th September, 1894.

No. 417.—Petition of Mary O'Brien, of Opawa. Petitioner prays that she may be granted a compassionate allowance on account of her late husband and eldest son, both having been killed while in the employ of the Bailway Department. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 4th September, 1894.

No. 501. —Petition of John Pitches and 18 Others, of Tuapeka. Petitionees pray that provision may be made for the widow of the late Hon. Vincent Pyke, in recognition of his valuable services, &c, to the colony. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends that the petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 4th September, 1894.

No. 489.—Petition of John William Simms, of Wellington. Petitionee states that in May last he was wrongfully arrested in Masterton on the charge of larceny, whereby he was put to considerable loss and injury to his character. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the attention of the Hon. the Minister of Defence should be drawn to the action of Sergeant McArdle, of Masterton, in pressing the prosecution of the petitioner at Masterton on the 11th May, 1894, when the Stipendiary Magistrate, after hearing the evidence, dismissed the case; and that the Hon. the Minister should cause an inquiry to be made into the action of the sergeant, and check the evident overzeal of the police, which in this case has resulted in great loss and injury to the character of the petitioner, which loss appears to this Committee to be without any remedy. sth September, 1894. .

No. 30.—Petition of David Thornton Smith, of Wellington. Petitionee states that he had to resign his position of Assistant Librarian to the parliamentary library in March, 1891, after twenty years' service, and received six months' leave on full pay. He prays that he be granted an additional allowance. I am directed to report that the Committee have no recommendation to make. sth September, 1894.

No. 490. —Petition of the Members of the Picton Lawn Tennis Club, of Picton. Petitionees state that they occupy a portion of the Courthouse Beserve, at Picton, as a tenniscourt, and upon which they have spent over £70, but that the permission to occupy the said ground has been withdrawn by the Justice Department. Petitioners pray for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. sth September, 1894.

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No. 423. —Petition of Michael O'Connor, of Wellington. Petitionee prays that he may be granted the New Zealand Cross for his bravery at the Turuturu Mokai Bedoubt in the year 1868. I am directed to report that this Committee sees no reason for departing from the decision arrived at by a former Committee —namely, that the Committee cannot recommend that the prayer of the petition be granted. sth September, 1894.

Nos. 483, 461, 462, 468, 470, 474, 479, 498, 511, 517, 527, 575.—Petitions of the following Lodges of the Independent Order of Good Templars : The Kauri, of Aratapu; Perseverance, Pride of Wakanui, Forward, New Era, Hope of Harben, General Gordon, Loyal Nelson, Lumsden to the Front xlgain, Evening Star, Star of Newton, West Coast Pioneer. Petitioners pray for an amendment of "The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893." I am directed to report that, as there is now legislation before Parliament dealing with the subject-matter of the petitions, the Committee recommends that they be referred to the Government for consideration. 12th September, 1894.

No. 495.—Petition of Walter Williams, of Westport. Petitioner states that in April last he was fined under " The Beer Duty Act, 1880," for having accidentally omitted to cancel the duty stamps on two kegs of beer. He prays for the remission of the fine. I am directed to report that this Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petition. 12th September, 1894.

No. 499. —Petition of B.ichard Powley, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays for compensation for loss sustained through the refusal to grant a renewal of the license of the Apollo Hotel. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused the renewal of his hotel license through the operation of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 12th September, 1894.

No. 529.—Petition of Maey A. Peachey, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays for compensation for loss sustained through the refusal to grant a renewal of the license of the Britannia Hotel. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused the renewal of her hotel license through the operation of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 12th September, 1894.

No. 514.—Petition of P. J. Gilmore, of Lyttelton. Petitioner prays for compensation for loss sustained through the refusal to grant a renewal of the license of the Bailway Hotel. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused the renewal of his hotel license through the operation of "The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 12th September, 1894. '

No. 530.—Petition of Christina S. Pacey, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays for compensation for loss sustained through the refusal to grant a renewal of the license to the Canongate Hotel. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused the renewal of her hotel license through the operation of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 12th September, 1894.

Nos. 569, 570, 571, and 572. —Petitions of Thomas Hunter and 9 Others, Charles Davies and 77 Others, Bobert Neville and 22 Others, and Henry Worthington and 26 Others, of Otamatea and Whangarei Counties. Petitionees pray that a grant of £500 may be voted for the road to connect the Settlements of Mareretu, Maungaturoto, Waikiekie, and Mangapai with the Great North Boad and Whangarei. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, the petitions should be referred to the Government for consideration. 12th September, 1894.

No. 537.—Petition of Cornelius O'Neil and 350 Others, of Westland. Petitioners pray that a sum of money may be placed on the estimates for the purpose of continuing the track up the Pour-mile Creek to a point in the Grey Valley. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 18th September, 1894.

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Nos. 516 and 651.—Petitions of Mrs. Garcia, President of the Canterbury Woman's Institute, and Others, and J. A. Costal and Others. Petitioners pray that the Offences against the Person Act may be amended, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petitions be referred to the Government for consideration. 18th September, 1894.

Nos. 500 and 513.—Petitions of W. Bennett and 9 Others, and Susan Bunciman and 16 Others. Petitioners pray that the age of consent may be raised to not less than sixteen years, &c. I am directed to report that, as there is now legislation before Parliament dealing with the subject-matter of these petitions, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 18th September, 1894.

No. 574.—Petition of the Otago United Shipwrights' Society. Petitioners pray that the proposed extension of the Port Chalmers Wharf may be carried out under the co-operative system. I am directed to report that this Committee has no recommendation to make. 18th September, 1894.

No. 596. —Petition of Thomas Jones, of Feilding (No. 2). Petitioner prays for the removal of the trustees in his assigned estate, and that such estate be placed in the hands of the Public Trustee for administration. I am directed to report that this Committee cannot recommend that the prayer of the petition be granted. 18th September, 1894.

No. 348.—Petition of John and Anne Morrison, of Kaukapakapa. Petitioners pray that a correct survey of their land may be made by the Government. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, the petition should be referred to the Waste Lands Committee. 18th September, 1894.

No. 634.—Petition of Nathan William Sharpe. and Others, of Kaukapakapa. Petitioner prays that an Act may be passed compelling owners of sections to cut down any tall trees thereon which are a nuisance to the adjoining owners, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 18th September, 1894.

No. 626.—Petition of Patrick McConville, of Lyttelton. Petitioner prays for compensation for loss sustained through the refusal to renew his hotel license. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused the renewal of his hotel license through the operation of "The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers he has no claim against the colony. 21st September, 1894.

No. 601. —Petition of Henry Stroud, of New Plymouth. Petitioner prays that he may be granted compensation for loss of office as Bailiff of the Besident Magistrate's Court and Supreme Court, New Plymouth. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 21st September, 1894.

No. 553.—Petition of Horace Norgrove, of Picton. Petitioner states that he has invented a submarine steamboat suitable for all submarine works, and that he has not the means to construct a working-model necessary for the illustration of the capabilities of his invention. He prays that a sum of money may be placed on the estimates for that purpose. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 21st September, 1894.

No. 665.—Petition of Alexander Owen, of Dunedin. Petitioner prays that he may be granted compensation for loss sustained through the refusal to renew the license of the Ship Hotel. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner was refused the renewal of his hotel license through the operation of " The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," the Committee considers he has no claim against the colony. 21st September, 1894.

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No. 542. —Petition of John Simcock, of Kaukapakapa. Petitioner states that he lost his right hand through an explosion in the Government gravel quarry at Kaukapakapa. He prays that he may be found suitable employment. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 21st September, 1894.

No. 520. —Petition of B. Turnbull, of Mokihinui. Petitioner prays that he may be granted compensation for loss of office as Inspector of Works in the Public Works Department. I am directed to report that, as the petitioner has not proved that he is entitled to be considered a Civil servant, in the opinion of the Committee he has no claim upon the colony. 26th September, 1894.

No. 625. —Petition of E. H. Von Schoeneberg, of Wellington. Petitioner.prays that a Commission of inquiry may be granted him into the facts concerning his arrest and treatment by the Police Department, &c. I am directed to report that the Committee, having carefully considered this petition, cannot recommend that the prayer of the petition be granted in regard to setting up a Commission of inquiry; and, further, that they consider the petitioner has no claim against the colony. 26th September, 1894.

Nos. 563, 614, and 615. —Petitions of 11. Middleton and 977 Others, John Duckett and 3,442 Others, and William Stewart and 3,607 Others. Petitioners pray that the principles of "The Alcoholic Liquors Sale Control Act, 1893," may not be disturbed until a fair trial has been given it, so as to enable the people of the colony to judge whether any important amendments are necessary. I am directed to report that, as there is now legislation before Parliament dealing with the übject-matter of these petitions, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 26th September, 1894.

No. 675. —Petition of Colin Bobeetson and 178 Others, of Waikaia, &o. Petitioners pray that the Biversdale-Switzers Bailway may be completed. I am directed to report that, in the event of a loan for railway construction being authorised by Parliament, the Committee recommends the claims of the petitioners for consideration by the Government. 26th September, 1894.

No. 701. —Betition of J. Hubble and 131 Others, of Palmerston North. Petitioners pray that the minimum quantity of beer allowed to be sold wholesale be not raised from 2 gallons. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government. 28th September, 1894.

No. 640.—Petition of J. McCarthy and 127 Others, of Greymouth. Petitioners pray that a Bill may be passed confirming the principle of levying rates upon the unimproved land values only. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government. 28th September, 1894.

512.—Petition of John H. Gillies and 47 Similar Petitions, as per Attached Schedule. Petitioners, school-teachers in the. employ of the Auckland Education Board, state that the proposal of the said Board to reduce salaries by charging rent for the schoolhouses occupied by the teachers is contrary to the provisions of "The Education Act, 1887," &c. Petitioners pray for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, while admitting the Auckland Education Board may be within its legal rights in administering " The Education Act, 1877," in proposing to charge teachers rent for their residences, the Committee consider the action of the Board in this matter injudicious, and not contemplated by the said Act, and that in the event of the Auckland Education Board persisting in calling upon teachers to pay this impost the Government be recommended to amend the Education Act, with a view of more carefully defining the powers of the Education Boards. 28th September, 1894.

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Schedule of 47 Petitions from School-teachers in the employ of the Auckland Education Board, praying that they be not charged rent on Schoolhouses occupied by them, &c.

No. 718.—Petition of E. Purser, of Blenheim. Petitioner states that he has discovered a process for treating the ironsand of Taranaki, and prays that a sum of money may be placed on the estimates to be given for a competitive examination of the best process for working successfully the ironsands of the colony. I am directed to report that, with a view of developing the mineral wealth of the colony, the Committee recommends the Government to place a sum of money on the estimates as a bonus for the manufacture of iron of a good marketable quality, the bonus to be given when there is sufficient'evidence that the industry is likely to be of a permanent advantage to the colony. 2nd October, 1894.

No. 637. —Petition of John Taylor Marshall, of Wellington. Petitioner prays that he may be found employment by the Government on account of his past services. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend that the prayer of the petition be granted. 2nd October, 1894.

No. 595. —Petition of The Waikato Branch op the New Zealand Educational Institute. Petitioners pray that the School Maintenance Fund be not applied to building and other purposes, and that a colonial scale of salaries be fixed for teachers, and a system of classification of schools be introduced. I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 2nd October, 1894.

No. 658. —Petition of James J. Waite, of Auckland. Petitioner states that he was a probationary lighthouse-keeper in the employment of the Marine Department. That he made certain charges against the lighthouse-keeper at Cape Maria van Diemen, and that his services were dispensed with without due inquiry being made into same. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of this Committee, the evidence before it is insufficient to enable it to arrive at any decision. 3rd October, 1894.

No. 568.—Petitions of B. C. Majoribanks and 36 Others, of Croyden. Petitioners, bushmen working in the Hokonui State Forest, pray—(l) That licenses should be granted for a certain time instead of for a certain quantity of material; (2) that, in case of disputes with the department having control of the forests, the bushmen should not be required to attend the Stipendiary Magistrate's Court at Invercargill, but at Gore, in the immediate locality; (3) that fines should be inflicted only before a Stipendiary Magistrate ; (4) that the regulations should permit of standing timber being cut. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, prayers (2) and (3) of the petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 12th October, 1894.

No. 721. —Petition of J. H. Hume and 8 Others, of Auckland, Petitioners, school-teachers in the employ of the Auckland Education Board, state that the proposal of the said Board to reduce salaries by charging rent for the schoolhouses occupied by the teachers is contrary to the provisions of " The Education Act, 1877," &c. Petitioners pray for relief. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, while admitting the Auckland Education Board may be within its legal rights in administering " The Education Act, 1877," in

No. Name. No. Name. No. Name. 523 531 532 536 538 545 546 547 548 550 551 552 577 578 579 581 Haines, Luther, and 2 others. Holloway, E. M., and 2 others. Johns, W. E. Ellis, Howard, and 3 others. Higginson, F., and another. Jameson, F., and another. Colhoun, J. L. Worsley, W, H, and 2 others. Millsop, J., and 2 others. Carter, C. W., and 9 others. Stewart, E. D., and 9 others. Newson, W. H., and 4 others. Hosking, F., and 2 others. Lowe, F. E. Campbell, H. Brook, J., and another. 582 583 586 590 591 593 594 602 603 604 607 608 609 610 613 621 Ohlson, F. J., and another. Wilson, T., and 5 others. Phillips, H., and 8 others. Spence, J. C. Short, A., and another. Burton, F. P., and 3 others. Gerrin, A., and 3 others. Collins, W. and another. Haselden, F., and 5 others. O'Donoghue, D., and 2 others. Blackmore, H., and 4 others. Jones, Sarah A. Murray, Jno. Kyst, F. W. McKenzie, W. E., and 7 others. Chappell, J. 629 630 631 632 633 647 657 661 663 672 673 674 677 687 698 Plummer, Mary. Hall, W. H. V., and 2 others. Elmsly, F. Gonnell, W. J., and 3 others. Eooney, Emma, and 6 others. Hegath, A. S., and another. Hearne, 0. T., and 2 others. McPherson, E. Hogwood, Jas., and 5 others. Sullivan, W., and 3 others. Henry, Margaret, and another. Oldham, A., and 2 others. Mcintosh, W. U., and 3 others. Crosbie, M. H. Wilson, H. B., and another.

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\ r proposing to charge teachers rent for their residences, the Committee consider the action of the Board in this matter injudicious, and not contemplated by the said Act, and that, in the event of the Board persisting in calling upon teachers to pay this impost, the Government be recommended to amend the Education Act, with a view of more carefully defining the powers of the Education Boards. 12th October, 1894.

No. 660.—Petition of James McCullum, of Bahotu. Petitioner states that he leased certain lands in Bahotu from the Natives, and erected buildings thereon, and greatly improved the land. That the Public Trustee, under "The West Coast Settlement Beserves Act, 1892," ousted petitioner from his occupation of the said land, whereby he has suffered a loss of £285. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that, while the Committee desires to express its sympathy with the petitioner in the loss of his property, still it is of opinion that this is mainly due to his having been ill-advised in leasing land to which he could obtain no title, and is therefore unable to make any recommendation in the matter. 12th October, 1894.

No. 720.'—Petition of A. E. Wood and 133 Others, of Palmerston North. Petitioners pray that the minimum quantity of beer allowed to be sold wholesale be not raised from 2 gallons to 5 gallons. I am directed to report that, as there is now legislation before Parliament dealing with the übject-matter of this petition, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 12th October, 1894. ___

No. 730. —Petition of C. S. Vernon and 20 Others, of Whangape. Petitioners pray for Government assistance towards making roads to their properties taken up under the perpetual-lease system, I am directed to report that the Committee recommends the petition be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 15th October, 1894.

No. 706. —Petition of Dugald Macleat, of Blenheim. Petitioner states that he was wrongfully dismissed from the position of Head Attendant of the Lunatic Asylum, Wellington. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 15th October, 1894.

No. 713. —Petition of William Biddle, of Taueru. Petitioner states that in the year 1888 he was wrongfully convicted and fined for having in his possession a worm and head of a still, being illicit distilling apparatus. He prays that an inquiry may be instituted into the matter, or that the fine of £75 may be remitted. I am directed to report that the Committee has no recommendation to make. 17th October, 1894.

N O . 671. —Petition of Lorenz Biesterer, of Hokianga (No. 2). Petitioner states that in the year 1886 he took up certain land under the deferred-payment system, at £2 per acre; that in 1890 the said land was revalued at 16s. 3d. per acre; that in January, 1892, the Auckland Land Board forfeited the said section for non-fulfilment of the conditions of the Act, without petitioner receiving any notice whatever from the Board of its intention to do so. He prays for relief. I am directed to report that from the evidence it appears—(l.) The Auckland Land Board forfeited petitioner's lease in January, 1892, without notifying the said petitioner of its intention so to do. (1.) That, although the petitioner had effected improvements on the adjoining section greater than the law necessitated, still the said Board, contrary to the usual practice, did not take this into consideration, and forfeited the deferred-payment lease for non-compliance with the conditions as to improvements and residence. The Committee is of opinion, from the evidence before it, that had the petitioner received notice of the Board's intention to forfeit, reasons might have been adduced which would have avoided the necessity for cancellation; under the circumstances, the Committee recommends that the whole matter should be referred to the Government to afford such relief to petitioner as it may think advisable. 17th October, 1894.

No. 681. —Petition of Bichard Munro, of Oteramika. Petitioner states that in 1874 he was a selector of a section of land under the deferred-payment system; that on account of the want of a road to give access thereto he had to abandon the same. He prays that the amount of payments made by him on the said section may be transferred as part payment, on account of another section taken up by him. I am directed to report that the Committee cannot recommend that the prayer of the petition, be granted. 19th October, 1894.

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Nos. 670, 676, 678, 679, 686, and 694.—Petitions of Geo. Ehodes and Others, McLeod and Shaw and Others, Palliser and Jones and Others, Jas. Trevor and Others, W. J. Bassett and Others, J. Lunn and Others. Petitioners, representing the building trade of the colony, pray for certain amendments in the Government Conditions of Contract. I am directed to report that, with regard to clauses Nos. 5 and 7 of the petition, the Committee, are of opinion that the prayer contained therein should be granted by the Government. 22nd October, 1894.

Final Be port. BisuMi of work done by the Public Petitions M to Z Committee during Session 1894: — Number of Petitions referred to the Committee ... ... ... 265 Number of Petitions dealt with by the Committee ... ... ... 263 Number of Petitions held over ... ... ... ... ... 2 Number of Beports presented to the House ... ... ... ... 124 Specific recommendations made therein ... ... ... ... 17 Beferred to Government for favourable consideration ... ... ... 6 Beferred to Government for consideration ... ... ... ... 30 No recommendation, &c. ... ... ... ... ... ... 71 I am also directed, by resolution of the Committee, to further report that the Committee express their appreciation of the able manner in which the Chairman has conducted the business of the Committee. That a vote of thanks was passed for the efficient way in which the clerk performed his duties during the past session. Approximate Cost of Paper.— Preparation, not given; printing (1,250 copies), £12 123.

By Authority: Samuel Costall, Government Printer, Wellington.—lB94.

Price 9d.]