DESPATCHES FROM THE GOVERNOR OF NEW ZEALAND TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1902 Session I, A-01

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1902. NEW ZEALAND.

DESPATCHES FROM THE GOVERNOR OF NEW ZEALAND TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES.

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

INDEX.

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No. of ieries. Date. Subject. Page. 1 2 Jan., 1901 Invitation from Gisborne Maoris to His Eoyal Highness the Duke of York to visi them Sarah Fogo sentenced to death for murder Specimens of new issue of postage stamps .. .. .] Visit of Governor to Auckland and other Southern Islands.. Nominal roll of the Sixth Contingent Sorrow expressed at the death of Her late Majesty Queen Victoria Proclamation of His Majesty King Edward the Seventh Admission of colonial solicitors to Courts of United Kingdom . '. Convention, United Kingdom and United States: Disposal of real and persona; property Convention, United Kingdom and Costa Rioa: Trade-marks and designs Literary and Artistio Copyright Bills Deserters from Imperial representative oorps .. .. j" Hon. A. J. Cadman to retain the title of " Honourable " Nominal roll of the Seventh Contingent .. .. Presbyterian address of sympathy and loyalty to His Majesty the King Gold and silver production of oolony, year 1900 " Defence Act Amendment Aot, 1900 " .. .. " Wesleyan Methodist address to His Majesty the King " New Zealand Ensign Act, 1900," reserved Survey of coasts of New Zealand Convention, United Kingdom and Japan: Estates of deceased persons Hon. H. J. Miller knighted University of New Zealand : Address to His Majesty the King '.'. Discharge of Colonial Forces in South Africa Long-service and good-eonduot medals: Regulations .. .. ][ Information respecting local forces of British colonies " New Zealand Ensign Bill, 1900 " .. .. .. ., Suggestions for a National Technical University in London Departure of their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duohess of Cornwall and York Opening of Parliament Title of " Royal " to New Zealand Artillery .. .. ,, " Postage between New Zealand and French possessions in Oceania Ribbons for medals for veterans in New Zealand Address from Legislative Counoil and House of Representatives ,, 3 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 I 3 Jan., „ 19 Jan., „ 1 Feb., „ 4 Feb., „ 4 Feb., „ i Feb., „ 21 Mar., „ 23 Mar., „ 3 3 3 4 4 6 7 7 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 25 Mar., „ 26 Mar., „ 2 April, „ 5 April, „ 10 April, „ 10 April, „ 13 April, „ 4 May, 4 May, 7 May, „ 4 May, i 8 May, I 10 May, „ ! 10 May, „ I 16 May, „ i 16 May, „ 25 June, „ 27 June, „ 27 June, „ 28 June, „ : 2 July, „ 2 July, „ 2 July, „ i 2 July, „ ! 6 July, „ 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 10 10 10 10 10 11 12 13 13 14 14 14 15 15

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INDEX — continued.

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No. of Series. Date. Subject. Page. 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 6 July, 1901 8 July, , 9 July, „ 10 July, „ 17 July, „ 23 July, „ 29 July, , 29 July, „ 6 Aug., „ 7 Aug., „ 15 Aug., „ 29 Aug., . 29 Aug., „ 14 Sept., „ 17 Sept., „ 24 Sept., „ 25 Sept., „ 25 Sept., „ 26 Sept., „ 11 Oct., . Right Hon. R. J. Seddon a member of the Privy Council .. .. „.."• Address from New Zealand Grand Lodge of Freemasons to His Majesty the King Authentication of documents executed in England, &c. .. Visit of Argentine training-ship " Presidente Sarmiento " .. Claim of Mrs. H. Searell for murder of her daughter in China Administration of Pacific Islands Venice Sanitary Commission : Adherence of New Zealand Government Coronation Oath: Resolution of Church of Christ, Dunedin Admission of colonial solicitors to Courts of United Kingdom Admission of barristers and solicitors of Cape Colony to practise in New Zealand Death of Hon. Sir John McKenzie, K.C.M.G. Sorrow and regret for death of Empress Dowager of Germany German South Pole expeditionary Bhip " Gauss " Memorial of Her late Majesty Queen Victoria Restrictions on coast trade of New Zealand Death of President of United States of America.. Extension of period of service of Lord Ranfurly.. Maxim guns Lieutenant R. W. G. Collins to be placed on Reserves list Honours: Sir J. G. Ward, Sir J. McKenzie, K.C.M.G.'s; Hon. A. J. Cadman, Hon. W. 0. Walker, Lieut.-Colonel Gudgeon, C.M.G.'s Penny postage Petition from parents of Trooper G. B. Tasker "Royal Visit Expenses Act, 1901," reserved Recognition of services of Colonel Pole-Penton Utilising the services of army reservists Representation of New Zealand in Postal Union Life-saving stations in New Zealand.. System of weights and measures in New Zealand International Telegraph Conference Prorogation of Parliament German South Pole expedition " Industrial Property Convention, 1883 " ; additional Act Postal Union Convention : Ratification by New Zealand Long-service and good-conduct medals : Regulations Synopsis of Acts passed, Session 1901 Governor's half-salary from leaving England Resolutions respecting calumnies published by foreign papers Resolutions respecting army meat-contracts Right Hon. R. J. Seddon accepts invitation to Coronation.. Nominal roll of Eighth Contingent .. .. Gold and silver production of colony, year 1901 Public seal of the colony Suwarrow Island lease : Position required by Admiralty Transport " Tagus ": Report on Bluff Harbour.. School-teachers for South Afrioa New Zealand Imperial Guaranteed Debentures.. Conference of Premiers at Coronation Case of s.s. " Waikato" .. Frozen meat and metric system Visit of His Highness Duke Adolf Frederick to New Zealand Company legislation ' .. .. •• Proclamation vesting land at Suwarrow Island in Admiralty Nominal roll of Ninth Contingent 15 16 16 17 17 18 18 18 18 19 19 19 19 19 20 20 20 21 21 22 55 56 57 58 .59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 12 Oot., , 15 Oct., „ 17 Oct., „ 19 Oct., . 25 Oct., ,-' 28 Oct., „ 31 Oct., „ 2 Nov., » 7 Nov., „ 22 Nov., , 23 Nov., „ 23 Nov., „ 25 Nov., „ 16 Dec, „ 18 Dec, „ 31 Jan., 1902 31 Jan., „ 1 Feb., „ 11 Feb., „ 17 Feb., „ 17 Feb., „ 17 Feb., , 18 Feb., „ 5 Mar., „ 10 Mar., „ 10 Mar., „ 10 Mar., „ 24 Mar., „ 26 Mar., „ 27 Mar., „ 1 April 3 April , 3 April „ 22 22 23 ■ 23 24 24 24 25 25 25 25 25 26 26 26 30 30 31 31 32 32 32 32 33 38 38 38 39 39 40 40 40 40

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No. 1. (No. 1.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd January, 1901. I have the "honour to enclose for the gracious acceptance of Her Majesty a petition, with translation, from the Maoris of Gisborne, inviting His Eoyal Highness the Duke of York to their district, and sending their expressions of goodwill. I have also received requests for His Eoyal Highness to attend other functions, which I am, however, not forwarding, deeming it advisable to await definite information as to the duration of the visit of their Eoyal Highnesses. I have, &c, JAS. PEENDEEGAST, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, Deputy Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 2. (No. 2.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 3rd January, 1901. In conformity with a circular despatch of sth May, 1882, I have the honour to inform you that Sarah Eogo was convicted of murder, and sentenced to death. The sentence was commuted at Executive Council to imprisonment with hard labour for the term of her natural life, on the 15th December, 1900. The jury in this case strongly recommended the prisoner to mercy, and the Judge concurred. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUBLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 3. (No. 6.) Sik, — Government House, Wellington, 19th January, 1901. With reference to Lord Knutsford's circular despatch of 23rd April, 1890, on the subject of colonial postage and revenue stamps, &c, and your circular despatch of 11th December, 1896, referring to the same subject, I have now the honour to forward you six specimens each of two new issues of stamps. Six stamps, New Zealand (Universal postage), one penny. Six stamps, New Zealand (postage and revenue), ljd. I have, &c, JAMES PEENDEEGAST, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, Deputy Governor. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 4. (No. 9.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, Ist February, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that I returned to New Zealand on the 21st January from a tour of inspection on the Government steamer " Hinemoa " of the following Islands : Snares, Auckland, Campbell, Antipodes, and Bounty. The various depots for shipwrecked mariners were visited and found intact. One of my objects in visiting these Islands was to procure specimens of birds desired by the British Museum. I was fortunate in obtaining what I believe to be a fine collection, and have forwarded the same to London this week, sending them direct to the Natural History Department, British Museum, South Kensington, I haye T &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, .... ■' EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies..' ■ : .--,r -.-.--■•::-=. : " -■•.-.■"

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No. 5. (No. 10.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 4th February, 1901. I have the honour to enclose you herewith a nominal roll of the Sixth Contingent, who left Auckland for Capetown on the 30th January on the s.s. " Cornwall." The Sixth Contingent consisted of 18 officers, 551 non-commissioned officers and men, and 580 horses. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 6. (No. 11.) Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 4th February, 1901. With reference to my telegram of the 26th January, informing you of the deep sorrow expressed by towns, Consuls, societies, religious bodies, &c, at the death of Her Majesty Queen Victoria, I have the honour to send you a list of the letters and telegrams received up to date. These all have been acknowledged individually, and your telegram of the 26th January, expressing His Majesty's thanks, and the thanks of the Eoyal Family, has been published throughout the colony. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. List of Letters and Telegrams. From the Imperial German Consul, Auckland. From National Council of Women of New Zealand, Christchurch. From Women's Branch, Ancient Order of Foresters, Canterbury. From Executive Officers, Ancient Order of Foresters. From New Zealand Society for the Protection of Women and Children, Wellington. From President, Wellington Friendly Societies' Council, Wellington. From New Zealand Branch, Girls' Friendly Society, Wellington. From Mayor and Councillors of Oamaru. From loyal Natives of Whirinake. From Mayor of New Brighton. From Mayor of Boss. From Mayor of Christchurch. From Mayor of Parnell. From Mayor of Foxton. From Mayor of Westport. From Mayor of Birkenhead (Auckland). From Mayor of New Plymouth. From Mayor of Auckland. * From Mayor of Ashburton. From Mayor of Kaiapoi. From Mayor of Wanganui From Mayor of Palmerston North. From Mayor of Tauranga. From Mayor of Oamaru. From Mayor of Greytown North. From Mayor of Hokitika. From Mayor of Lyttelton. From Mayor of Woolston. From Mayor of Sumner. From Mayor of St. Albans. From Mayor of Woodville. From Mayor of Napier. From Chairman, Vincent County Council, Clyde. From Chairman, Westland County Council, Hokitika. From Chairman, Waitaki County Council, Oamaru. From Chairman, Inangahua County Council, Beefton. From Chairman, Opotiki Town Board.

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List of Letters and Telegrams— continued. From Chairman, Thames County Council, Thames. From G. W. Bussell, M.H.8., Christchurch, and his constituents. From R. Meredith, M.H.R., Christchurch, on behalf of the people of Ashley and himself. From Hon. S. B. Shrimski, M.L.C., Auckland. From Hon. Major Steward, M.H.B. for Waitaki, Ashburton. From Hon. J. G. Ward, Acting-Premier. From Geo. Petherick, District Chief Templar, Independent Order of Good Templars, Wellington District, Lodge No. 5, Wellington. From Moss and Leah Davis, Auckland. From A. R. Hislop, Secretary, Institute of Marine Engineers of New Zealand, Wellington. From T. S. Weston, Chairman, North Canterbury Board of Education, Christchurch. From H. V. Fulton, President, Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Society, Dunedin. From J. J. O'Brien, President, and E. Ford, Secretary, New Zealand and Australian Natives' Association, Auckland. From C. E. Beasley, President, Richmond Working-men's Club, Christchurch. From Henry J. Ranger, Grand Master, Loyal Orange Institution, Christchurch. From E. P. Joyce, President, Cook County Liberal Association, Gisborne. From Herbert Williams, President, Poverty Bay Section of the New Zealand Natives' Association, Gisborne. From F. J. Caterer, Provincial Grand Master, and Chas. Foster, Provincial C.S., Oddfellows, Manchester Unity, North Canterbury District, Christchurch. From John McLeod, District Secretary, Manchester Unity Oddfellows' Friendly Society, Auckland. From Harold Beauchamp, Chairman, Wellington Harbour Board, Wellington. From E. C. Rickard, President; Anna Bee, Secretary, No. 1, No Surrender Ladies' Loyal Orange Lodge, Christchurch. From Mr. Phillips, Secretary of the National Oddfellows, West Street, Newton, Auckland. From Samuel H. Davenport, D.C.R.; J. Carlaw, P.D.C.R.; D. J. Wright, Secretary, of the Auckland District of the Ancient Order of Foresters, Newton, Auckland. From J. M. Thompson, President, Christchurch Working-men's Club, Christchurch. From H. Antill Adley, Secretary, Canterbury Chamber of Commerce. From Right Reverend Dr. Grimes, Roman Catholic Bishop, Christchurch. From Roman Catholic Bishop, Dunedin Diocese. From President, Hebrew Community, Wellington. From President, Hebrew Congregation, Dunedin. From President of the New Zealand Wesleyan Church Conference, Nelson. From N. Alfred Nathan and Sidney J. Nathan, Wardens, Hebrew Congregation, Auckland. From A. H. Collins, Baptist Union of New Zealand, Ponsonby. From Rev. W. R. Campbell, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand, Waiau. From Rev. W. Oliver, President; Rev. W. Shirer, Secretary, Wellington Ministers' Association, Wellington. From C. Darling, President, Women's Christian Temperance Union, Rangiora. From H. Ward, Hon. Secretary, Highbank School Committee, Methven. From Emil Skog, Consul for Denmark, Christchurch. From Taraua Marumaru and other Maori Chiefs, Bulls. From the Mayor of Auckland. From L. J. Carmine, Hon. Secretary, Wellington Poultry, Pigeon, and Canary Society, Wellington. From George B. Purdey, District Master, Wellington District Loyal Orange Lodge, No. 1, Wellington. From William C. Fitzgerald, President; Richard D. Hanlon, Vice-President; and Leon Cohen, Vice-president, the Central Pharmaceutical Association of New Zealand, Wellington. From Tonia Turoa, Wikitoria Keepa, Mete Kingi, on behalf of the Maoris of Wanganui. From Hon. H. Tomoana, M.L.C., Hastings, on behalf of the East Coast Maoris. From Chieftainess Airini Donnelly, Napier. From Hon. H. K. Taiaroa, M.L.C., Otago, on behalf of the Taumutu Maoris. From Arawa Tribe, Ohinemutu. From Taituha Hape, Thomas Eustace Green, W. Uru, Woodend, on behalf of the Maoris of the Ngaitahu Tribe residing at Kaiapoi. From John Stevens, Esq., M.H.R., Bulls, on behalf of Ratana Ngahina, the other chiefs and people of the Ngatiapa Tribe. From Frank Willingham, American Consul, Auckland. From J. J. Kinsey, Consul for Belgium, Christchurch. From Willi Fells, Acting German Consul, Dunedin. From F. A. Krull, German Consul, Auckland. From Count de Courte, French Consul for New Zealand, Wellington. From William Bosschart, Consul-General for the Netherlands, Auburn, Victoria. From Thomas Wallace, Consular Agent for Italy, Christchurch. From Alex. H. Turnbull, Vice-Consul for Spain, Wellington. From Eberhard Focke, Vice-Consul for Germany, Wellington. From Geo. Fisher, M.H.R., Consular Agent for Italy, Wellington. From Roman Catholic Archbishop of Wellington. From Mayor and Councillors of the Borough of Invercargill.

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List of Letters and Telegrams— continued. From Presbyterian Church of Otago and Southland. From Christian Endeavour Union, Auckland. From Maoris of Colac Bay, Southland. From Westport Chamber of Commerce. From Canterbury College, Christchurch. From Auckland Trades and Labour Council. From Wellington College and Girls' High School, Wellington. From Manawatu County Council, Sanson. From Heuheu Tukino, Taupo. From Members of the Mothers' Union, Auckland. From Hawke's Bay Highland Society, Napier. From Yorkshire Society of New Zealand, Wellington. From General Synod of the Church of the Province of New Zealand, Napier. From Law Society of the District of Auckland. From Hibernian-Australasian Catholic Benefit Society, Auckland. From Mayor of Auckland. From Auckland Chamber of Commerce, Auckland. From Thames Borough Council, Thames. From St. John's Ambulance Association, Wellington Centre. From Canterbury Acclimatisation Society, Christchurch. From Wellington District Ancient Order of Foresters' Friendly Society. From Mayor and Councillors of the Borough of North-East Valley. From Southern Cross Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Wellington. From Maori Tribes of Hauraki.

No. 7. (No. 13.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 4th February, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that on the 28th January a Proclamation, of which copies are enclosed, was publicly read by my Acting Premier, the Honourable J. G. Ward, in my presence, from the steps of the Houses of Parliament, with full military honours. After the reading of the Proclamation a Eoyal salute was fired. There was a very large attendance of the public. I have, <&c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. Proclamation. Whereas it has pleased Almighty God to call to His mercy our late Sovereign Lady Queen Victoria of blessed and glorious memory, by whose decease the Imperial Crown of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, and all other Her late Majesty's dominions, is solely and rightfully come to the High and Mighty Prince Edward : Now, therefore, We, Uchter John Mark, Earl of Ranfurly, the Governor of the Colony of New Zealand, Richard John Seddon, a member of Her late Majesty's Privy Council, Joseph George Ward, Acting-Premier of the said colony, and the members of the Executive Council of the said colony, assisted by members of both Houses of the General Assembly, Judges, Magistrates, and officers of Courts, ministers of religion, Mayors, Chairmen and members of local bodies, and numerous other representative European and Maori citizens here present, do now hereby, with one voice and consent of tongue and heart, publish and proclaim that the High and Mighty Prince Albert Edward is now, by the death of our late Sovereign of happy and glorious memory, become our only lawful and rightful Liege Lord Edward the Seventh, by the Grace of God, King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India, Supreme Lord in and over the Colony of New Zealand and its dependencies, to whom we do acknowledge all faith and constant obedience with all hearty and humble affection, beseeching God, by whom kings and queens do reign, to bless the Royal Prince Edward the Seventh with long and happy years to reign over us. Given at Wellington, in the Colony of New Zealand, this twenty-eighth day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand nine hundred and one. Ranfurly. R. J. Seddon. J. G. Ward. W. C. Walker. Wm. Hall-Jones. ■ C. H. Mills. X)udley Alexander, Captain. ' • God save the King!

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No. 8. ' (No. 15.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 21st March, 1901. With reference to your circular despatch, dated the 7th August, 1900, transmitting a copy of Act 63 and 64 Vict., c. 14, providing for admission of solicitors of Courts of British Possessions to the Supreme Courts in the United Kingdom, I have the honour to inform you that my Solicitor-General is of opinion that the information supplied in respect of your circular despatch of the Ist February, 1898, is still accurate, and for the purposes of section 3 of the Act, the " Superior Court " in New Zealand is the " Supreme Court of New Zealand." I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1901 No. 33.

No. 9. (No. 17.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 23rd March, 1901. With reference to your circular despatch, dated the 20th September, 1900, relative to the Convention between the United Kingdom and United States of America as to disposal of real and personal'property, I have the honour to inform you that my Government desires to adhere to the Convention. I have, &G. f The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1901 No. 45.

No. 10. (No. 19.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 25th March, 1901. With reference to your circular despatch, dated the 13th November, 1900, regarding a Convention between the United Kingdom and the Bepublic of Costa Eica, I have the honour to inform you that my Government desire that the Convention be made applicable to this colony. I have, &c, The Eight. Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 1.

No. 11. (No. 20.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 26th March, 1901. In reply to your circular despatch, dated the 4th December, 1900, relative to Literary and Artistic Copyright Bills, I have the honour to inform you that I have laid this matter before my Ministers, who have informed me that they have no suggestions to offer regarding these Bills. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 5.

No. 12. (No. 23.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd April, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that the seven absentees from the Imperial representative corps will sail direct from Wellington on the 11th instant in the Shaw-Savill and Albion Company's s.s. " Kumara," and will probably arrive at Plymouth about the 27th May. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J, Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 13. (No. 24.) Sir,— Government House, Wellington, sth April, 1901. I have the honour to request that Mr. Alfred Jerome Cadman may receive His Majesty's gracious permission to retain the title of "Honourable" for life. Mr. Cadman has been a Minister of the Crown and a member of the Executive Council for the last ten years. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 14. (No. 25.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 10th April, 1901. I have the honour to forward you herewith a roll of the Seventh Contingent who left Wellington for South Africa in steamer " Gulf of Taranto " on the 6th instant: 28 officers, 3 medical officers, and 562 non-commissioned officers and men. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies

No. 15. (No. 26.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 10th April, 1901. I have the honour to forward herewith an address of sympathy and loyalty from the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand for His Majesty's acceptance. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 16. (No. 28.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 13th April, 1901. In conformity with your circular despatch of the Bth December, 1898, regarding the gold and silver production of the colony, I have the honour to inform you that the quantities of gold and silver entered for export for the year ended 31st December, 1900, were 373,616 oz., equal to 11,621-02 kilogrammes, valued at £1,439,602, and 311,136 0t,., equal to 9,677 - 63 kilogrammes, valued at =£35,390, respectively. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1899, No. 37.

No. 17. (No. 32.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 4th May, 1901. With reference to my telegram of the 3rd May, relative to " The Defence Act Amendment Act, 1900," I have the honour to inform you that I received a telegram when on the West Coast, from my Premier, asking me to cable regarding this Bill, as there were certain contracts for ammunition which were unable to be signed until it became law. On receipt of your telegram of the Ist May I found that the SolicitorGeneral had advised the Premier that this Bill had been reserved owing to a misinterpretation of paragraph 2 of your despatch (No. 15) of the Bth February, 1901. I regret the error; but, owing to my absence at the Cook Islands when this Bill came from Parliament for Governor's signature, I was not personally aware of the details, the Acting Governor, Sir Eobert Stout, having dealt with this matter. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 18. (No. 33.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 4th May, 1901. I have the honour to forward herewith a loyal address from the Conference of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in New Zealand for His Majesty's gracious acceptance. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 19. (No. 34.) Sic, — Government House, Wellington, 7th May, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that my Premier has called my attention to Despatch, N.Z. No. 80, dated the 25th October, 1900,-sent to you by His Honour Sir Eobert Stout, who was then acting as Deputy Governor. This despatch he does not consider to be complete without the copies of the minutes on the covering sheet, and in accordance with his request I have the honour now to enclose copy of—(1) The Solicitor-General's opinion, and (2) minute made by Deputy Governor : — " I hereby certify that, in my opinion, the Bill the Short Title whereof is " above set forth should be reserved for the signification of Her Majesty's " pleasure thereon. The Bill is repugnant to certain provisions of Part I. of " the Imperial Act cited as ' The Merchant Shipping Act, 1894,' which applies " to all Her Majesty's dominions, but is passed under the special powers con- " ferred on colonial Legislatures by section 735 of the Act referred to. In " accordance with that Act, this Bill is in terms expressly reserved for the Eoyal " assent. " W. S. Eeid, Solicitor-General.'' (2.) " For the Eight Hon. the Premier. " Section 4 of this Bill seems to me to invade the prerogative of the " Governor. I doubt if the two Houses ought to put in a Bill that it should be " reserved. It is for the Premier to express his opinion on the subject in " accordance with the law. " Eobert Stout, Deputy Governor." I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-l, 1901, No. 43.

No. 20. (No. 35.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 4th May, 1901. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch No. 22, of the sth March, 1901, respecting the proposed survey of the coasts of New Zealand. I have laid the question of selecting places for surveys suitable for the winter months before my Ministers, who have ordered their Nautical Adviser, Captain Blackburne, to confer with Commander Combes on the arrival of H.M.S. "Penguin." I have, &c.,, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 25.

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No. 21. (No. 36.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, Bth May, 1901. In reply to your circular despatch of the Ist February, 1901, relative to the Convention between the United Kingdom and Japan for the reciprocal protection of the estates of deceased persons, I beg to inform you that my Government does not desire that the stipulations of the Convention should be made applicable to this colony. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 19.

No. 22. (No. 39.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 10th May, 1901. I have the honour to inform you, in reply to your despatch (Honours) of the 14th March, that I have informed the Hon. Sir Henry John Miller that, by command of'the King, the patent of knighthood has been transmitted to me, and Sir H. Miller has requested me to personally hand the same to him when he comes next to Wellington. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 23. (No. 40.) Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 10th May, 1901. I have honour to forward herewith a loyal address from the Senate of the University of New Zealand for His Majesty's gracious acceptance. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 24. (No. 43.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 16th May, 1901. In reply to your despatch (New Zealand), dated the 7th December, 1900, relative to Colonial Forces in South Africa, I have the honour to inform you that my Government have approved, with slight modification to meet local conditions, of the form of certificate of discharge as forwarded in your despatch. 2. All men discharged from these Contingents will be furnished with such a certificate. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 7.

. . No. 25. (No. 44.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 16th May, 1901. I have the honour to inform you, in reply to your despatch (New Zealand, General) dated the 29th September, 1900, on the regulations governing the issue of the medal for long service and good conduct to the Permanent Forces of New Zealand, that my Government are preparing regulations on the same lines, with a view to New Zealand regulations being similar to those now in force in England. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 26. (No. 49.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 25th June, 1901. In reply to your circular dated the 29th March, 1901, enclosing copy of a letter dated the 10th January, 1899, from the Director of Military Intelligence at the War Office, asking for certain information regarding the local Forces of the British colonies, I have the honour to answer the questions therein contained in order: — I. Copies of " The Defence Act, 1886," and " The Defence Act Amendment Act, 1900," are enclosed herewith. 11. (a.) The terms of service for the New Zealand Permanent Force are laid down in clauses 13 and 14 of " The Defence Act Amendment Act, 1900." (b.) Enlistment is voluntary. (c.) The pay for non-commissioned officers and rank and file is laid down by Warrant dated, the 17th August, 1899, a copy of which is attached. (d.) There is no scale of pay laid down for the commissioned ranks, but an allowance of £50 per annum is granted in lieu of quarters. (c.) Members of the Permanent Force are not entitled to pensions except when they are called out for active service, when they would come under the provisions of " The Military Pensions Act, 1886." (/.) A copy of the regulations laid down for the Permanent Force are also enclosed. 111. Eeserve Forces : (a.) This is taken to mean, in the case of this colony, the " Volunteer Force." The term of service, which is voluntary, for this branch of the New Zealand Defence Forces is laid down in clause 53 of " The Defence Act, 1886," as amended by clause 2, subsection (14), of " The Defence Act Amendment Act, 1900." (b.) These corps are paid, in the case of mounted rifles, a capitation allowance for each " efficient " of £3 10s. per annum. All other corps are paid at the rate of £2 10s. for each " efficient." Members of Naval and Garrison Artillery and Submarine Mining Corps are also granted a personal payment of £1 per man per annum, provided they pass in the subjects laid down in the syllabus for the branch of the service. A further sum of £1 is also granted in the case of a man who may gain three consecutive certificates of efficiency in these subjects. A minimum number of these personal payments are also granted to members of Engineer, Field Artillery, Mounted Eifles, and Eifles, on their qualifying in the subjects laid down. The members of the Volunteer Force do not draw pay except when called out for actual service, when they receive the respective rates laid down in paragraph 152, Volunteer Eegulations, a copy of which is enclosed. The members of the Volunteer Force come under the same provisions as to pensions as the Permanent Force (see 11. (c)). All corps that go into camp are granted Is. 6d. per day per man, with an extra allowance, in the case of mounted corps, of Is. 6d. per horse per diem for forage. Free passes over Government Eailways are also granted for the purpose of attending Eifle Association meetings and shooting matches. By clause 12 of " The Defence Act Amendment Act, 1900," the establishment was authorised of an Imperial Eeserve, for service either within or without the colony. His Excellency the Governor has not so far been advised to establish such a reserve, and no steps have as yet been taken to enrol such a reserve force. IV. The training laid down for the several branches of the Volunteer Force is defined in paragraphs 77a, 136, 137, 137 a, 138, 138 a, 139, 148, and 168, Volunteer Eegulations. The Permanent Force, in addition to their ordinary duties, are also exercised in the several duties which they would be called upon to perform in active service.

A.-2, 1902, No. 32.

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V. The present Permanent Militia Force was, by clauses 73 and 80 of " The Defence Act, 1886," formed from the Armed Constabulary Force, the last-mentioned Force having been raised about the year 1868, and served throughout the Native war from that time until peace between the two races was proclaimed. The Permanent Militia have since their embodiment also done field duty in several cases where it was expected that the Natives would make a breach of the peace. The Volunteer Force has also been called out during the Native wars for active service, as also many of the corps in 1881 during the Te Whiti disturbance at Parihaka. VI. The uniform of the Permanent Militia is that laid down on pages 9 and 10 of the New Zealand Dress Eegulations (a copy of which is enclosed). Volunteer Corps are allowed to adopt such uniform as they respectively think fit, provided that the specifications of such are first submitted to the Commander of the Forces for his approval, and, if necessary, modification of specifications. All corps must, however, provide themselves with a field service khaki uniform. VII. The Forces are administered by the Commandant of the Forces; questions relating to expenditure being dealt with by the Under-Secretary for Defence, the Forces being organized under " The Defence Act, 1886," and " The Defence Act Amendment Act, 1900." The officers of the Volunteer Force below the rank of field officer are elected by the respective corps. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 27. (No. 52.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 27th June, 1901. In reply to your despatch (No. 35) dated the 21st March, 1901, on the question of " The New Zealand Ensign Act, 1900," reserved, I have the honour to forward you, by request of my Premier, a copy of a memorandum I have received from him. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY, Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 30.

Enclosure. Memorandum for His Excellency the Governor. The Premier presents his compliments to His Excellency the Governor, and, in reply to despatch No. 551/1901 in respect to the reserved Bill entitled " The New Zealand Ensign Act, 1900," desires that His Excellency will be good enough to forward the following memorandum in reply thereto. My Ministers appreciate the force of the objections raised by the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to the New Zealand Ensign Bill in its present form, and, in order to meet them, suggest that the Bill be modified by providing that the ensign may be used for all purposes ashore, but shall not be worn by any vessel other than the vessels owned and used by the New Zealand Government, except in pursuance of a warrant from His Majesty or the Admiralty. The right to use the blue ensign with the Southern Cross, represented by four five-pointed red stars with white border, was granted in 1869 (see New Zealand Gazette, 1869, page 556). This authority has evidently been overlooked. With respect to Sir Robert Stout's despatch No. 80, and your remarks thereon, my Ministers regret that, owing to an unfortunate inadvertency, Sir Robert Stout, in forwarding copies of the memoranda that had passed between himself and the Premier in regard to the reservation clause, should have omitted to forward copy of the initial memorandum on which the whole question at issue turned. It is as follows :— " The New Zealand Ensign Act, 1900." For the Right Hon. the Premier. Section 4of this Bill seems to invade the prerogative of the Governor. I doubt if the two Houses ought to put in a Bill thai it should be reserved. It is for the Governor to express his opinion on the subject in aceordanoe with the law. Robebt Stout, Deputy Governor.

A.-l, 1901, No. 43.

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and shows that the question was not whether Lord Derby's clause should be substituted for the clause in the Bill, but whether Parliament had or had not the right to insert a reservation clause at all. The Premier felt that he could not for one moment admit that the clause in the Bill was in any way an invasion of the Governor's prerogative. R. J. Seddon. Premier's Office, Wellington, 28th June, 1901.

No. 28. (No. 53.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 27th June, 1901. I have the honour to forward you herewith a letter I have received from the Eight Hon. the Premier. This letter, though dated the 17th May, did not reach me till the 3rd June, and was held over, with his consent, to the present mail, owing to the great pressure of work caused by the Eoyal visit. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. Memorandum for His Excellency the Governor. The Premier presents his compliments, and desires His Excellency to forward the enclosed communication to the Secretary of State for the Colonies. The communication in question deals with a matter of vital importance to the people of Great Britain and its dependencies. One and all must admit, in respect to the technical education of our young people, and the training of the artizans and skilled classes, we are much behind other nations, and in a great measure the improved position of the industries of these nations arises from this cause. It is the Premier's anxiety, with a view of retaining British trade and maintaining our industrial superiority, that he ventures to call attention to a long-felt want. Premier's Office, Wellington, 18th May, 1901. R. J. Seddon. Sib— Premier's Office, Wellington, 17th May, 1901. I have the honour to ask your kind attention and consideration for the following subject: — No memorial that could be raised in honour of our late Gracious Sovereign Queen Victoria would show such true understanding and sympathy with the intention and genius of her rule as a living institution designed to add to the prosperity of the British Empire and amplify its expansion. I propose that a national technical university be erected in London, to which the youth of Great Britain and the colonies would concentre, there to be trained in all that science, art, and industry can do to make commercial enterprise successful. At present there is a great lack of organized effort in this direction among English-speaking peoples, and we shall certainly fall behind the better-trained nations of the Continent unless we are prepared to fit our children with the best industrial armour and weapons. Every year more and more young men go to the seats of learning in Great Britain to finish their education, and there could be no more graceful tribute to the memory of our late Sovereign than for the colonies to participate in laying the foundation of an institution around which the brightest intellects of the Empire will concentrate in the coming centuries. I trust that the other colonies and dependencies of the Empire will perceive the value and sympathise with the aims of the institution now proposed, and that united action may result in an Imperial technical university being founded in the capital of the Empire. I have, &c, The Right Hon. Mr. Chamberlain, R. J. Seddon. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 29. (No. 55.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 28th June, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that Their Eoyal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York left Lyttelton for Hobart on the evening of the 27th June. 2. Their stay in the colony has given great satisfaction, and has endeared them to the hearts of the people of New Zealand.

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3. They expressed themselves pleased with the loyalty and warmth of their reception ; and I consider their visit will be productive of the best results. 4. Throughout their stay, all the functions have been without incident. The sensational reports in some of the papers as to a fire in the house in Christchurch during their residence there are without foundation. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 30. (No. 57.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd July, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that the second session of the Fourteenth Parliament was opened by Commission on the Ist July, 1901, for the purpose of taking the oath of allegiance. 2. On the following day Parliament was formally opened by me. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, . EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 31. (No. 58.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd July, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that my Government are desirous of adding the title of " Eoyal " to the New Zealand Artillery. His Majesty's sanction to this request would be much appreciated. The New Zealand Artillery are the only Permanent Force at present in the colony, the other Defence Forces being entirely Volunteers and Militia. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 32. (No. 59.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd July, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that my Government are desirous of making an arrangement by which letters may be transmitted between this colony and the French possessions in Oceania at the postage equivalent of 10 centimes for each 15 grammes of weight. It is not desired to disturb the existing rates of postage for articles other than letters. I have the honour to bring this matter under your attention, and to request, if you concur, that His Majesty's Government will approach the French Government on this question. The request is made under Article XXI. of the Postal Convention of Washington, and is based on the fact of the proximity of Tahiti and other French possessions. The close trade relations which have for many years existed between the islands referred to render it desirable that the postage rate should be on the lowest possible basis. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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No. 33. (No. 61.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd July, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that His Eoyal Highness the DuKe of Cornwall and York inspected the veterans of the Imperial army and navy at each of the four centres of the colony. 2. His Eoyal Highness pointed, out to me the very worn state of most of the medal ribbons, and that in many cases the wrong coloured ribbons had been attached, these old. servants of the Crown having been unable to obtain in this colony ribbon of the proper pattern. 3. His Eoyal Highness desired me to state the facts, and apply for the proper material. 4. I have the honour, Sir, to request that you will move the Secretary of State for War to grant a supply of these ribbons, which would be distributed through the Veteran Associations to those holding the proper medals, 5. I estimate that there are not less than 2,000 of these Imperial Veterans who all saw active service prior to the year 1865. 6. I venture to express the opinion that such a grant will be productive of good results, encouraging the younger soldiers to value the honours they may earn. 7. I append herewith an approximate list of the quantity needed : Crimea, 30 yards ; Crimea (French war medal), 1 yard; Turkish, 25 yards; Sardinia, J yard; Mutiny, 18 yards; Central India, 2 yards; Afghan, 1 yard; Eandahar Star, J yard ; Burmah, 3yards ; Sikh War, f yard ; Sikh Star, J yard; Punjaub (1846-49), l£ yards; Persian, 4f yards; Cape, £ yard; South African, (1847), 1 yard ; Eaffir, § yards ; Ashantee, £ yard.; Abyssinia, f yard ; Egypt, 1 \ yard ; Syria (Acre), \ yard; China, 9J yards; Baltic, 2j yards ; distinguished service in field, J yard; long service in field and good conduct, yards; meritorious service, J yard. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 34. (No. 66.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 6th July, 1901. With reference to my despatch (New Zealand, No. 57) dated the 2nd instant, relative to the opening of Parliament, I have the honour to enclose copies of the following documents : — (a.) The Speech that I read on that occasion. (b.) Address in Eeply presented to me by the honourable the Legislative Council. (c.) Address in Eeply presented to me by the Speaker and members of the House of Eepresentatives. I have &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 30.

No. 35. (No. 67.) Sir, Government House, Wellington, 6th July, 1901. I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your despatch (General) dated 22nd May, 1901, enclosing a document notifying that His Majesty has been pleased to appoint the Eight Honourable Eichard John Seddon a member of His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council. I have the honour to inform you that I have this day handed the letter and its enclosure personally to the Premier. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902 No. 43.

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No. 36. So, ..__ °" Government House, Wellington, Bth July, 1901. At the request of my Premier, I have the honour to forward herewith an address from the New Zealand Grand Lodge of Freemasons for the gracious acceptance of His Majesty the King. I have, <fee The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, RAN J UELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 37. Sir — ' Government House, Wellington, 9th July, 1901. In reply to your circular letter dated the 15th March, regarding the state of the law in this colony in respect to the authentication of signatures to documents executed in England or elsewhere out of the colonies, I have the honour to inform you that the reply to the Earl of Derby's circular despatch ot the Ist March, 1884, requires the following modifications consequent on subsequent legislation : — Deeds and Documents relating to Property. " The Land Transfer Act, 1870," has been repealed, and the provisions now contained in "The Land Transfer Act, 1885" (No. 57, sec. 169), are similar to those in " The Froperty Law Consolidation Act, 1883." An additional provision is made by " The Land Transfer Act Amendment Act 1888" (No. 40, sec. 12), that if there is no provision m any place tor taking affidavits, British Consul or Vice-Consul may attest instruments. (2.) Documents Generally. Acknowledgment of deeds by married women was abolished by " The Property Law Consolidation Act 1883 Amendment Act, 1885 " (No. 43, sec. 4). Affidavits. By a Supreme Court rule made on the 29th November, 1886 (Gazette 1886 n 1539), affidavits, declarations, and affirmations may be sworn in the United Kingdom or any British possession before any Judge, Court, notary public, or person lawfully authorised to administer oaths in such places, and in any foreign place before British Consul or Vice-Consul. By " The Bankruptcy Act, 1892 " (No. 24, sec. 153), affidavits made at any place in British dominions are admissible if sworn before Court, Judge, or notary nublic or before a person authorised to administer oaths or take declarations; or in 'any place out of British dominions before British Minister, Consul, ViceConsul, or notary public. (3.) Incorporation of Companies. By "The Evidence Further Amendment Act, 1885" (No. 14, sec. 6), a certificate of incorporation of a company is admissible if signed by person whose authority to give the same is verified by statutory declaration of Mayor, Provost, notary public, British Consul, or Vice-Consul. Merchant Shipping. The Act 17 and 18 Vict., c. 104, has been repealed by 57 and 58 Vict., c. 60, and the provisions of the latter Act now apply. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 29.

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No. 38. (No. 71.) Sir,-— Government House, Wellington, 10th July, 1901. In reply to your despatch (General), dated the 19th April, 1901, relative a.-: to the Argentine training-ship " Presidente Sarmiento " visiting this colony, I No ' have the honour to inform you that this vessel has now arrived in New Zealand, and my Government' have issued instructions that all reasonable facilities be granted to the officers of the training-ship to enable them to visit certain establishments of interest. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

-2, 1902, . 35.

No. 39. (No. 74.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 17th July, 1901. I have the honour to forward you herewith for your favourable consideration a claim for £5,000 made by a Mr. E. Trist Searell, of Armagh Street, Christchurch, on behalf of his mother, Mrs. Harriet Searell, for the murder of her daughter in China on or about the 30th June, 1900. The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, 'I have, &c, Secretary of State for the Colonies. EANFUELY.

Enclosure. Memorandum for His Excellency the Governor. The Premier presents his compliments to His Excellency, and, in accordance with a communication from the Colonial Office to the Agent-General for New Zealand, bearing date the 17th December, 1900, a copy of which is hereunto annexed, transmits correspondence supporting a claim for £5,000, made by Mr. R. Trist Searell, on behalf of his mother, Mrs. Harriet Searell, for the murder of her daughter, Miss Edith Searell, by the Boxers on or about the 30th of June, 1900. Premier's Office, Wellington, 12th July, 1901. R. J. Seddon.

Sib, — Colonial Office, Downing Street, S.W., 17th December, 1900. With reference to the letter from this department of the 29th ultimo, I am directed by Mr. Secretary Chamberlain to inform you that a letter has been received from the Foreign Office, stating that any claim for compensation in respect of Miss Searell's murder in China that may be made on behalf of her mother will be considered, together with those of other British subjects, when the question of indemnities is dealt with. Any such claim should be made through the Government of New Zealand, and forwarded to this department for transmission to the Foreign Office. I am, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand. H. Bebtkam Cox.

Sir,— 272, Armagh Street West, Christchurch, 20th November, 1900. As I was unable to see you personally during your short stay here, I am taking the liberty of laying my case before you in writing. My parents, three brothers, and two sisters arrived in Lyttelton in the ship " Canterbury " in June, 1865, from London. We were all born in England—myself, brothers, and sisters—near Chudleigh, in Devonshire; hence are all British subjects; but as my present letter has only to do with one of my sisters, allow me to trace her life. In 1895, or thereabouts, she felt impelled to offer herself as a missionary for China to the China Inland Mission (with its headquarters in Melbourne). After the usual examination, &c, she was accepted, and shortly afterwards started for China, where she safely arrived. After a short stay at Ghefoo she was sent into the interior, where she continued to work with a Miss Whitchurch until the 30th June, 1900, when they were both brutally murdered by the Boxers. We received official news of this about two months ago from the headquarters of the C.I.M. at Melbourne, which fact was circulated in all the papers issued in this colony, and probably in the Home papers. I forward herewith Lyttelton Times of the 28th July, Ist August, and 14th September ; also Press of the loth November, which contain accounts of the murder. My father died in 1890, leaving my mother and sister not well provided for. On my mother's behalf I desire to forward a claim for £5,000 against the Chinese nation for this brutal murder. I am advised that you are the proper person to forward this claim to, and shall esteem it a very great favour if you will order such steps to be taken in the matter as will bring it before the proper authorities for their consideration when terms of peace with China are arranged. Thanking you in anticipation, believe me, &c, Hon. R. J. Seddon, &c, Premier. R. Teist Seabell,

3-A. 1.

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g lEi _ Matson's Boad, Papanui, Christchurch, 10th February. With reference to the indemnity claimed on behalf of my mother, Mrs. Harriet- Searell, for the murder of my sister, Miss Edith Searell, in June last, in the Mission District of Hsaioi, Shansi, China, I am informed by our Agent-General that such claim must be made through the New Zealand Government. I therefore, in pursuance of this direction, beg to place the matter in your hands, trusting you will take the necessary steps to secure justice. I am, &c, The Bight Hon. B. J. Seddon. - ' H. Alice Seaeell.

No. 40. (No. 78.) Sir, Government House, Wellington, 23rd July, 1901. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, No. 51), dated the 27th April, 1901, paragraph 5 (a), relative to the administration of certain Pacific Islands, I have the honour to request that I may be supplied with a copy of the license issued in respect to Suwarrow, by the next mail, as I can find notrace of the licenses, copies of which were supposed to be transmitted with above despatch. I have a copy of the license for Palmerston, which I received from the High Commissioner, Western Pacific. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2. 1902, No. 38.

No. 41. (No. 79.) Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 29th July, 1901. With reference to your despatch circular, dated the 25th June, 1899, relative to the Venice Sanitary Convention, I have the honour to inform you that the New Zealand Government agree to adhere to the first part of Chapter I. and Chapter lE, Titles 1 and 2, of the Convention, which relat to notification of any outbreak of plague within its territories, and of the subsequent progress of the disease, to the foreign Governments which are parties to the Convention, and to neighbouring countries. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 42. (No. 80.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 29th July, 1901. I have the honour to forward ycu herewith a resolution passed at a meeting of the Church of Christ, at Dunedin, relative to the Coronation oath; and resolutions of a similar character from the Orangemen and Protestants of Auckland and Christchurch ; also from a public meeting at Dunedin. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 43. (No. 84.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 6th August, 1901. With reference to my despatches (New Zealand, No. 19, 12th May, 1898; and New Zealand, No. 15, dated 21st March, 1901), referring to the admission of solicitors of Courts of British possessions to the Supreme Courts in the United Kingdom, I have the honour to make an application for the issue of an Order in Council applying " The Colonial Solicitors Act, 1900," to the Supreme Court of New Zealand and to the Colony of New Zealand. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 8.

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No. 44. (No. 85.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 7th August, 1901. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, No. 58) dated the 23rd May, 1901, forwarding an inquiry from Lord Milner as to whether barristers and solicitors of the Cape Colony and the Transvaal are or will be allowed to practise in New Zealand, &c, I have the honour to submit as an answer to Lord Milner the following extract from " The Law Practitioners Act, 1882," of this colony as to who may be admitted here: " Any person who has been admitted as a " barrister or solicitor in any Superior or Supreme Court of any part of His " Majesty's dominions, and who has passed an examination as hereinafter pro- " vided in the knowledge of the law of New Zealand in as far as it differs from " the law of England." I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A -2, 1902, No. 44.

No. 45. (No. 87.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 15th August, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that Sir John McKenzie, K.C.M.G., died on the 6th August, at his residence, after a prolonged illness. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 46. (No. 91.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 29th August, 1901. I have the honour to forward you herewith addresses from Auckland and Napier respectively, expressive of sorrow and regret at the loss sustained by His Majesty the King by the death of the late Empress Dowager of Germany. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 47. (No. 92.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 29th August, 1901. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand) circular dated the 28th June, 1901, asking that all possible facilities may be afforded to the German South Pole expeditionary ship " Gauss," I have the honour to inform you that my Government will be pleased to do what they can for the expedition should the ship touch at New Zealand ports. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902. No. 50.

No. 48. (No. 95.) Sir, —• Government House, Wellington, 14th September, 1901. With reference to your despatch circular dated 10th June, 1901, relative to a memorial of Her late Majesty Queen Victoria, 1 have the honour to inform you that my Government do not see their way to make an appeal to the people for funds for the memorial in London, as in three of the principal

A.-2, 1902, No. 47.

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centres of the colony they are erecting memorials themselves, as a proof of their loving esteem and the devotion with which they regard her memory. I do not consider that an appeal made by me to the people would, under these circumstances, bring forth a fitting response. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 49. (No. 97.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 17th September, 1901. In reply to your despatch circular dated the Ist July, 1901, asking to be furnished with a statement showing what conditions and what restrictions, if any, are imposed on the coast trade of this colony, I have the honour to inform you that the restrictions affecting coasting trade are contained in the Shipping and Seamen's Acts of 1891, 1895, and 1896. are as follows : — Act, 1894. Section 7 : Fixing a minimum manning scale. (See amendment in Act of 1895, section 6 ; also section 18 of the Act of 1896.) Sections 19 to 29 : Coasting vessels are, under these sections, required to comply with the regulations with reference to life-saving apparatus, overcrowding, deck cargo, and load-line. Section 34 : All home trade vessels of 20 tons net register or over to have a certificated master. Act, 1895. Section 2 : Crew to be exercised in boat-drill monthly. Section 4 : Compasses to be adjusted. Act, 1896. Section 7 : The number of engineers to be carried to be in accordance with indicated horse-power, as set forth in schedule therein. Section 8 : Ventilation of engineers' rooms, engine-room, and stoke-hole. Section 10 : The seamen to be paid the current rate of wages in the colony. Enclosed are copies of the Acts referred to, find a copy of the regulations regarding the adjustment of compasses. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretar}' of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902 No. 68.

No. 50. . (No. 301.). Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 24th September, 1901. I have the honour to forward you herewith copies of resolutions passed by both Houses of the Legislature relative to the lamented death of the President of the United States of America. Messages of sympathy have also been received by me from the Towns of Ashburton, Nelson, Kaikoura, Christchurch, and Invercargill. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 51. (No. 102.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 25th September, 1901. I have the honour to forward you a copy of a memorandum I have received from my Premier relative to the extension of my period as Gov-rnor of New Zealand.

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I am prepared, if it meets with His Majesty's approval, to remain till the completion of seven years in this colony. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, ' EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. Memorandum for His Excellency the Governor. The Premier presents his compliments, and has very great pleasure in informing His Excellency that, understanding the usual term of office expires in April next, it is the unanimous desire of Ministers, and would be in accordance with the wishes of the peeple of the colony, if His Excellency could see his way to remain as the King's representative in New Zealand for another term, or part of a term. His Excellency's Advisers fully recognise that to be absent from the Mother-country for so lengthened a period is a self-sacrifice which His Excellency should not be lightly asked to make ; at the same time, if he could see his way to stay some time longer, it would be of advantage to the colony and meet with general approval. The Premier respectfully advises that the wishes of the Government in this respect be at once communicated to the Secretary of State for the Colonies. Premier's Office, Wellington, 21st September, 1901. R. J. Seddon.

No. 52. (No. 103.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 25th September, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that on the 15th February last, the Crown Agents for the colonies communicated'with the Agent-General for New Zealand, stating that they had received through the Colonial Office an urgent demand for twelve Maxim guns for the South African Constabulary, which they had placed with Messrs. Vickers, Sons, and Maxim, and asking tha/t an order for Maxim guns placed with that firm by my Government might be postponed, as far as six guns were concerned, for a month or six weeks, in order that the order for South Africa might be accelerated. This proposal was agreed to on behalf of my Government. The six guns for South Africa were only finished on the 6th June last, and the Crown Agents were asked by the Agent-General to press for the delivery of the New Zealand guns as much as possible. Under these circumstances I have the honour to request the earliest possible delivery of these guns for New Zealand, and my Government desire to protest against the long delay. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. * Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 53. (No. 104.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 26th September, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that Lieutenant E. W. G. Collins, of the Fourth New Zealand Eegiment, who was granted a Commission in the Ist Battalion Oxfordshire Light Infantry, and who has received instructions from the War Office to proceed to South Africa to join his regiment, has been reported by the Pensions Board appointed under the Military Pensions Acts of this colony, as being unfit for further military service on account of the serious nature of the wound received by him at Ottoshoop on the 16th August, 1900. I have the honour therefore to ask, on the request of my Government, that as this officer was wounded whilst engaged against the enemies of Her Majesty the Queen, and was at the time serving as an officer of Her late Majesty's Auxiliary Forces, he may be placed on the reserve of officers instead of cancelling his appointment to the Oxfordshire Light Infantry. The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, I have, &c, Secretary of State for the Colonies. EANFUELY.

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No. 54. (No. 107.) Sir, — Government House Wellington, 11th October, 1901. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch (New Zealand, Honours), dated the 12th July, 1901, enclosing letters from the Secretary to the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George. Those letters have been duly forwarded to those gentlemen named in your despatch. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902 No. 55.

No. 55. (No. 108.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 12th October, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that the Postmaster-General of this colony (Hon. Sir Joseph Ward, K.C.M.G.)has concluded departmental agreements with the Post Office Administrations of Chili, Costa Eica, Egypt, Italy, Liberia, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Peru, Portugal and Portuguese colonies, Siam, and Switzerland, under which letters from New Zealand, prepaid at Id. per Joz., are delivered in the countries named without surcharge. This arrangement is in each case made on the irnderstanding that letters from the countries which are parties to it must be prepaid at the rates heretofore existing—namely, 25 centimes for each 15 grammes. A reciprocal arrangement has also been made with the Post Office Administration of Servia, under which letters in both directions are treated as fully prepaid if bearing stamps of a value equal to 10 centimes for each 15 grammes, or a Id. per J oz. These arrangements have been reported to the International Bureau of the Universal Postal Union at Berne ; but that office expresses the opinion that the postage cannot be reduced to places beyond the British Empire by simple administrative agreement, and points out that it is necessary that such agreements should be concluded between the high contracting States concerned. I have, therefore, the honour to request that you will represent to His Majesty's Government the earnest desire of the Government of this colony that the necessary action be taken to uphold the administrative agreements already entered into. My Government consider this matter of much urgency and importance, and trust that you will expedite their request in every manner possible! I have the honour to enclose herewith copies of the agreements. The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, 'EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 56. (No. 110.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 15th October, 1901. I have the honour to transmit to you a petition I have received from the parents of Charles Borland Tasker, a prisoner'undergoing a sentence of one year's imprisonment; also a memorandum from my Premier on the same subject. As I am not acquainted with any of the details of the offence I am unable to furnish you with any report or recommendation in this case. The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, "' EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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Enclosure. Memorandum for His Excellency the Governor. The Premier presents his compliments, and transmits herewith a petition addressed to His Excellency by John and M. A. Tasker, for the remission of the remaining portion of the sentence of twelve months' imprisonment passed upon their son, No. 3561, Trooper Charles Borland Tasker, for sleeping at his post at Wonderfontein. In the Premier's reading of the laws and regulations, the trooper in question ought to have been imprisoned either in South Africa or the colony in which he was domiciled. Whilst frankly admitting that the offence of which he was found guilty is a very serious one, still it must be borne in mind that he is a mere youth and not a trained and experienced soldier. Moreover, the fact of his being allowed to resume duty for six weeks subsequent to being sentenced would go to show that the offence was not looked upon so seriously by those in command. Further, it will be gathered from the petition that there are extenuating circumstances. The lesson intended has no doubt borne fruit, and the Premier would recommend him for the clemency of the authorities. I have, &c, Premier's Office, Wellington, 12th October, 1901. R. J. Seddon.

No. 57. (No. 111.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 17th October, 1901. I have the honour to forward herewith " The Eoyal Visit Expenses Act, 1901," which I have considered best to reserve for His Majesty's pleasure. The Solicitor-General does not consider that this Bill required to be reserved under clause 6, section 2, of the Instructions passed under the Eoyal Sign Manual and Signet, as the Bill is for the purpose only of repaying to me certain sums disbursed by myself at the request of my Ministers, and is in no way a grant or donation, nor do I receive any personal benefit thereby. The circumstances, however, are of such an exceptional character, that I consider the course I have adopted of reserving it necessary, for had I sanctioned the same it might have formed an undesirable precedent. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 58. (No. 112.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 19th October, 1901. I have the honour to forward you herewith, with much pleasure, a memorandum from my Premier testifying to the services of Colonel Pole-Penton whilst holding the appointment of Commandant of the New Zealand Forces, and to request that the same be forwarded to the War Office for their favourable consideration. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Memorandum for His Excellency the Governor. The Premier presents his compliments to His Excellency, and desires that he should convey to the War Office the appreciation of the New Zealand Government for the services rendered by Colonel Pole-Penton whilst holding the position of Commandant of the New Zealand Forces. The improved position of our Defence Forces, harbour defences, and defence matters generally, speaks for itself, and the change for the better is due in a great measure to the efficiency of the services rendered by Colonel Pole-Penton, who has ever been painstaking, energetic, and assiduous in the discharge of his duties. I have, &c, Premier's Office, Wellington, 17th October, 1901. B. J. Seddon.

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No. 59.

(No. 114.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 25th October, 1901. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, No. 89) dated the 31st August, 1901, regarding a scheme for utilising the services of army reservists residing in colonies, and requesting the views.of my Government as to whether the colony would undertake the payment of those reservists, I have the honour to inform you that my Ministers do not see their way to undertake the payment of reservists residing in New Zealand. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 75.

No. 60. ,(No. 115.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 28th October, 1901. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, General) dated the 29th November, 1900, respecting the proposed separate representation of the New Zealand Post Office in the affairs of the Postal Union, I have the honour to inform you that my Premier has received the following communication from the Premier of the Commonwealth of Australia : — " Eeferring to the letter from the Postmaster-General of New Zealand, " dated the 27th ultimo, in regard to the proposal to obtain for that colony a " separate vote in the affairs of the Universal Postal Union, I have the honour " to inform you that in addressing His Excellency the Governor-General on " the subject, so far as the Commonwealth is concerned, I have had very much " pleasure in supporting the claim of your colony to a separate vote, as " requested." I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 3.

No. 61. (No. 116.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 31st October, 1901. With reference to your circular despatch of the 30th August, 1901, regarding the revised edition of the international code of signals, I have the honour to enclose you a list of life-saving stations in New Zealand. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 74.

Enclosure. List of Life-saving Stations in New Zealand.

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Position of Station. Nature of Life-saving Apparatus. Napier Lyttelton Sumner Timaru One complete set life-saving apparatus. One lifeboat, one rocket life-savmg apparatus, one line-throwing gun. One lifeboat. One lifeboat, one life-saving-rocket apparatus. One rocket life-saving apparatus. One rocket life-saving apparatus. One rocket life-saving apparatus. One life-saving apparatus. Oamaru Westport Greymouth Hokitika

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No. 62. (No. 117.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd November, 1901. With reference to your circular despatch of the 26th August, 1901, regarding the system of weights and measures existing in the colony, I have the honour to enclose you two copies of each of the following : " The Weights and Measures Act, 1868 " ; " The Weights and Measures Act Amendment Act, 1900 "; Eegulations under " The Weights and Measures Act, 1868," fixing scale of fees, made 18th March, 1873. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 72.

No. 63. (No. 119.) Sir,- — Government House, Wellington, 7th November, 1901. In reply to your despatch (General, New Zealand) of the 27th August, 1901, renewing the invitation to my Government to participate in the International Telegraph Conference, to be held in London on the 10th February next, I have the honour to inform you that the Hon. William Pember Eeeves, Agent-General for New Zealand, will represent this colony. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902. No. 73.

No. 64. (No. 121.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 22nd November, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that I prorogued the second session of the Fourteenth Parliament of New Zealand on the Bth instant. I have, &c, . The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 65. (No. 122.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 23rd November, 1901. I have the honour to inform you, in reply to your circular despatch dated the 23rd July, 1901, relative to the German South Pole Expedition, that my Government have arranged to take magnetic observations, and have issued instructions for meteorological observations to be taken at various lighthouses, and have also asked masters of steamers to co-operate in this matter. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 59.

No. 66. (No. 123.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 23rd November, 1901. In reply to your despatch (New Zealand, General) dated the 28th June, 1901, relative to an additional Act modifying the Industrial Property Convention of 20th March, 1883, I have the honour to inform you that my Government desires to adhere to the same, and respectfully request that His Majesty's Government will notify the Belgian Government accordingly. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 51.

4-A. 1.

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No. 67. (No. 124.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 25th November, 1901. In reply to your despatch (New Zealand, General) of the 4th September, 1901, relative to the Postal Union Convention concluded at Washington on the 15th June, 1897, I have the honour to forward you herewith the formal Act of ratification by my Government of the Convention, and final protocol for transmission to the United States Government. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 77.

No. 68. (No. 125.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 16th December, 1901. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, General) dated the 27th April, 1901, relative to the regulations governing the issue of medals for long service and good conduct to the Colonial Permanent Forces, I have the honour to forward you a copy of the amended regulations with regard to the extension of the grant of the Imperial distinguished conduct, meritorious service, and long service and good conduct medals to the New Zealand Permanent Forces. As these regulations, which have been drawn up to suit the circumstances of this colony, do not correspond in all respects with the model regulations enclosed with your despatch, my Government have asked me to forward a copy of their regulations for your favourable consideration. I Mr) VP* (V O The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 39.

No. 69. (No. 126.) Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 18th December, 1901. I have the honour to forward you herewith a synopsis prepared by the Law Officers of the Acts passed during the second session of the Fourteenth Parliament of New Zealand, together with the Acts duly authenticated with the seal of the colony. 2. No. 73 (" The Royal Visit Expenses Act, 1901,") I have already notified you, as by my despatch (New Zealand, No. Ill) dated the 17th October, 1901. 3.- I have further the honour to inform you that I have reserved my assent to No. 74 (" The New Zealand Ensign Act, 1901 "). I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUEY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 57.

Enclosure. Special Report. Fob the information of His Excellency the Governor I beg to report as follows: — 1. The synopsis attached hereto contains a list of all the Acts passed by the General Assembly of New Zealand during the session which ended on the Bth day of November, 1901. 2. In my opinion none of those Acts are repugnant to the law of England ; nor was it necessary they or any of them should have been reserved for the signification of His Majesty's pleasure thereon, in accordance with the Royal Instructions of the 26th day of March, 1892. Nos. 73 and 74, however, have been so reserved : No. 73 of His Excellency's own motion, because it provides for the payment of money to himself, although merely in reimbursement of money expended by him on the public account on behalf and at the request of the Government; and No. 74 on my advice that it affected the provisions of " The Merchant Shipping Act, 1894," relating to the national colours, and therefore should be reserved in terms of that Act. Dated at Wellington this 19th day of November, 1901. Feed. Fitchbtt, Solicitor-General.

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Synopsis of Acts passed by the General Assembly of New Zealand in the Session ended the Bth day of November, 1901. Public General Acts. 1. "The Imprest Supply Act, 1901."—Granting £461,000 and £9,000 towards the services of the current financial year. 2. " The Local Authorities Indemnity Act, 1901."—Legalising the expenditure of certain local authorities in receiving Their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York. 3. "The Chinese Immigrants Act Amendment Act, 1901."—Removing doubts as to the operation of the existing law with reference to Chinese members of the crew. 4. " The Accidents Compensation Act, 1901."—Under which the Court may order any person claiming damages resulting from an accident to be examined by an independent medical practitioner. 5. " The Imprest Supply Act, 1901 (No. 2)."— Granting £461,000 and £9,000 towards the services of the current financial year. 6. " The Cyanide Process Extension Act, 1901."—Extending the term of the patent rights held by the Crown. 7. " The Cemetery Trustees Validation and Appointment Act, 1901."—Validating the appointment of Trustees of certain cemeteries, and extending the powers of appointment by the Governor. 8. " The Police Offences Amendment Act, 1901."—Providing a penalty for the use of obscene language in public. 9. " The Land for Settlements Amendment Act, 1901."—Amending "The Land for Settlements Consolidation Act, 1900." 10. " The Government Advances to Settlers Extension Act, 1901." —Authorising the raising of an additional loan for £1,000,000. 11. "The Imprest Supply Act, 1901 (No. 3)."— Granting £461,000 and £47,000 towards the services of the current financial year. 12. " The Nurses Registration Act, 1901."—Providing for the registration of trained nurses. 13. " The Arbitration Court President Validation Act, 1901."—Validating the appointment of a President of the Court of Arbitration under " The Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act, 1900." 14. "The Imprest Supply Act, 1901 (No. 4)."—Granting £461,000 and £9,000 towards the services of the current financial year. 15. " The Exportation of Arms Act, 1901."—Empowering the Governor to prohibit the exportation of military and naval stores, &c. 16. " The Promissory Oaths Act, 1901." —Relating to the reswearing of Justices on reappointment, and of members of the General Assembly, on the demise of the Crown. 17. " The Physical Drill in Public and Native Schools Act, 1901."—Providing for the instruction of children in physical drill in State schools. 18. " The Counties Act Amendment Act, 1901." —Amending " The Counties Act Amendment Act, 1899." 19. "The Charitable Gifts Act, 1901."—Extending the provisions of " The Charitable Gifts Duties Exemption Act, 1883." 20. " The Mortgages of Land Act, 1901."—Providing a*similar form of mortgage of land. 21. "The Maori Antiquities Act, 1901." —To prevent the removal from the colony of Maori antiquities. 22. " The Miners' Rights Fee Reduction Act, 1901."—Reducing the fee payable for miners' rights. 23. " The Rabbit Nuisance Act Amendment Act, 1901."—Amending the procedure against owners of land on their failing to keep down rabbits. 24. "The Shops and Shop-assistants Acts Amendment Act, 1901."—Amending the law relating to the closing of chemists' shops on the statutory half-holiday. 25. " The Charitable Institutions Rating Act, 1901."—Exempting certain classes of institutions from the payment of rates. 26. "The Opium Prohibition Act, 1901." —Prohibiting the importation of opium, except in a medical form, and providing penalties for smoking opium. 27. "The Cornwall Park Duties Exemption Act, 1901."—Exempting from duties the transfer of Cornwall Park from Dr. John Logan Campbell to trustees for the benefit of the people of New Zealand. 28. "The Money-lenders Act, 1901."—Providing relief against harsh and unconscionable bargains by money-lenders, and requiring the latter to be registered. 29. "The Education Boards Election Act, 1901."—Supplementing the machinery of election under " The Education Boards Election Act, 1900." 30. " The Fisheries Encouragement Act, 1901."—Extending the time during which bonuses on canned and cured fish are payable. 31. "The Land-tax and Income-tax Act, 1901." —Imposing a land-tax and income-tax for the current financial year. 32. " The Inspection of Machinery Act, 1901."—Extending the time for applying for certificate of service, and amending " The Inspection of Machinery Act Amendment Act, 1900." 33. "The Imprest Supply Act, 1901 (No. 5)."— Granting £461,000 and £9,000 towards the services of the current financial year. 34. " The Evidence Further Amendment Act, 1901."—Making provision for the protection of witnesses in certain cases.

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35. " The Trustee Amendment Act, 1901."—Consolidating the law relating to the appointment of new trustees and enlarging the powers of trustees in certain cases. 36. "The Aid to Public Works and Land Settlement Act, 1901." —Authorising the raising of a loan of £1,250,000 to be applied in the construction of the public works stated in the Schedule to the Act. 37. " The Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Amendment Act, 1901."—Providing that awards of the Court may be enforced against trade-unions, and otherwise amending " The Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act, 1900." 38. "The Public-school Teachers' Salaries Act, 1901." —Creating a colonial scale of staffing and pay of teachers of public schools. 39. "The Local Bodies' Loans Act, 1901."—Consolidating the law relating to the raising of loans by local bodies, and to the granting of loans to those bodies by the Government. 40. " The Local Bodies' Goldfields Public Works and Loans Act, 1901."—Making provision for the raising of loans by local bodies on goldfields. 41. " The Egmont National Park Act, 1901."—Extending the powers of the Board. 42. " The Maori Lands Administration Amendment Act, 1901."—Amending " The Maori Lands Administration Act, 1900." 43. "The Pariroa Native Reserves Act, 1901."—Vesting certain Native lands in the Public Trustee for the benefit of certain tribes, and reserving a piece of land as a site for a Native school. • 44. " The Cook and Other Islands Government Act, 1901."—Being a temporary measure providing for the government of the Cook Group and other islands recently added to New Zealand. 45. "The Government Railways Department Classification Act, 1901."—Providing for the classification and regulation of the Department. 46. " The Coal-mines Act Amendment Act, 1901."—Reducing the minimum royalty on broken coal, extending the right of inspection of a mine by miners, and limiting the working-hours of miners. 48. " The State Coal-mines Act, 1901."—Enabling His Majesty to acquire and work coal-mines in New Zealand. 48. " The Payment of Members Act, 1901." —Increasing the rate of payment ef members of the General Assembly. 49. "The Public Health Amendment Act, 1901."—Enabling the Governor to prohibit the importation of certain articles, and extending the provisions of " The Public Health Act, 1900," to the Chatham Islands. (The provisions of this Act are incorporated in Act No. 61, hereinafter mentioned.) 50. " The Old-age Pensions Amendment Act, 1901."—Providing cheeks against fraud on the part of applicants, and enabling the pensions granted to Maoris to be administered by the Native Minister. 51. "The Westland and Nelson Coalfields Administration Act, 1901."—Endowing the Westport Harbour Board with certain lands and authorising the Board to prospect for coal. 52. " The Railways Authorisation Act, 1901." —Authorising the construction by the Governor, on behalf of His Majesty, of certain railways. 53. " The Military Pensions Act, 1901."—Extending " The Military Pensions Extension to Contingents Act, 1900," to the Sixth and Seventh Contingents serving in South Africa. 54. " The School Attendance Act, 1901."—Making better provision for the attendance of children at school. 55. "The Public Trust Office Act, 1901."—Enlarging the powers of the Public Trustee in small estates. 56. " The Criminal Code Amendment Act, 1901."—Providing for the punishment by imprisonment for publishing defamatory matter except in privileged cases. 57. "The Registration of Births Extension Act, 1901," extending the time within which the birth of a child may be registered. 58. " The Companies Act, 1901."—Providing for the protection of shareholders. 59. " The Factories Act, 1901."—Consolidating the law relating to the registration and regulation of factories, and limiting the working-hours therein. 60. " The Mining Act Amendment Act, 1901."—Amending " The Mining Act, 1898," in various matters. 61. " The Public Health Amendment Act, 1901 (No. 2)." —Enabling the Governor to prohibit the importation of certain articles, amending " The Public Health Act, 1900," as to quarantine and in other matters, and extending the Act to the Chatham Islands. 62. " The Chatham Islands County Act, 1901."—Constituting the Chatham Islands a county for purposes of local government." 63. " The Timber Export Act, 1901."—Authorising the levy and collection on behalf of His Majesty of certain duties on the exportation of timber. 64. " The Nelson Harbour Board Amendment Act, 1901."—Redefining the Nelson Harbour District, and the endowments of the Board, and providing for the management of the Motueka Wharf by a separate Board. 65. " The Native Land Claims Adjustment and Laws Amendment Act, 1901."—To determine certain claims and disputes, and to fulfil certain contracts and promises made by or on behalf of the Government, and amending the law relating to Native lands. 66. " The Maori Councils Act Amendment Act, 1901."—Amending " The Maori Councils Act, 1900." 68. "The Flax Grading and Export Act, 1901."—Providing for the grading of flax on its exportation.

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68. " The Public Works Amendment Act, 1901."—Providing for payment of compensation in certain cases. 69. "The Manawatu Railway Sale and Purchase Empowering Act, 1901."--Authorising the sale by the company, and purchase on behalf of His Majesty, of the Wellington and Manawatu Railway. 70. " The Victoria College Site and. Wellington College and Girls' High School and Wellington Hospital Trustees Empowering Act, 1901."—Providing for the acquisition of a site for Victoria College by the exchange and transfer of various lands, and authorising the Governors of the Wellington College and Girls' High School to borrow money for additional buildings. 71. " The Reserves and other Lands Sale, Disposal, and Enabling, and Public Bodies Empowering Act, 1901." —Making provision for the sale and other disposition of certain lands, and conferring certain powers on certain local bodies. 72. " The Appropriation Act, 1901."—Being the annual grant to His Majesty of the sums mentioned in the Act for the services of the year ending on the 31st day of March, 1902. Acts Reserved for the Signification of His Majesty's pleasure thereon. 73. "The Royal Visit Expenses Act, 1901."—Providing for the reimbursement of certain moneys disbursed by the Governor on behalf of the colony and at the request of his Responsible Advisers on the occasion of the visit of their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York. This Bill is reserved as it provides for a grant of money to the Governor, although only in reimbursement of moneys expended by him on the public account on behalf and at the request of the Government. 74. " The New Zealand Ensign Act, 1901."—Adopting a flag as the New Zealand ensign on shore in the colony and on vessels belonging to the Government. This Bill is reserved in compliance with " The Imperial Merchant Shipping Act, 1894." Local Acts. 1. " The Woodville County Act, 1901."—Constituting a new county for the purposes of local government. 2. " The Wellington Harbour Board Act 1879 Amendment Act, 1901."—Making fresh provision for the election of the Board. 3. "The Rotorua Town Council Validation and Extension Act, 1901."—Validating the election of the Council and extending the boundaries of the town. 4. " The Invercargill Reserve Leasing Act, 1901."—Empowering the Invercargill Borough Council to grant leases of a certain reserve. 5. "The Borough of Mataura Validation Act, 1901."—Validating a loan raised by the Mataura Borough Council to pay off an overdraft. 6. " The Borough of Mornington Tramways Act, 1901."—Authorising the Mornington Borough Council to acquire and construct tramways. 7. " The Canterbury College Empowering Act 1900 Amendment Act, 1901."—Empowers the Board to borrow money on mortgage of certain land. 8. " The Dunedin Waterworks Extension Act, 1901." —Making further provision for the supply of water to the City of Dunedin and its suburbs. 9. " The Egmont County Act, 1901."—Constituting a new county for local government purposes. 10. " The Featherston County Act, 1901."—Constituting a new county for local government purposes. 11. "The Gore Cemetery Reserve Vesting and Enabling Act, 1901." —Vesting a certain reserve in the Gore Borough Council, and changing the purpose of the reserve. 12. "The Greytown Reserves Vesting and Disposal Enabling Act, 1901."—Vesting certain reserves in the Greytown Borough Council, and enabling the disposal thereof. 13. " The Hokitika 'Harbour Board Endowment Act 1878 Amendment Act, 1901." —Vesting part of the foreshore of the Hokitika River in the Harbour Board. 14. " The Inch-Clutha Road, River, and Drainage Act, 1901."—Extending the powers of the Inch-Clutha River, Road, and Drainage Board. 15. " The Kairanga County Act, 1901."—Constituting a new county for purposes of local government. 16. "The Lyttelton Borough Council Empowering Act, 1901."—Empowering the Council to erect gasworks. 17. "The Palmerston North Reserves Act Amendment Act, 1901."—Providing for the management of certain reserves. 18. " The Patea Harbour Act, 1901."—Empowering the Patea Harbour Board to borrow £10,000. 19. " The Templeton Domain Board Empowering Act, 1901."—Extending the powers of the Board. 20. "The Wesley an Church Reserve Vesting Act, 1901."—Vesting a certain reserve in the Trustees of the Wesleyan Methodist Connection of Canterbury. 21. " The Masterton Public Park Management Act, 1901."—Providing for the vesting and management of the park. 22. " The Kiwitea County Council Offices Act, 1901."—Providing for an exchange of land for a site for county offices. 23. " The Ocean Beach Public Domain Act 1892 Amendment Act, 1901."—Extending the powers of the Domain Board.

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24. " The City of Auckland Loans Consolidation and Auckland City Borrowing Acts Amendment Act, 1901."—Amending " The City of Auckland Loans Consolidation Act, 1879," and " The Auckland City Borrowing Act, 1899." 25. " The Remuera Waterworks Empowering Act, 1901."—Authorising the construction of waterworks by the Remuera Road Board. 26. " The Dunedin City and Suburban Tramways Act 1900 Amendment Act, 1901." —Amending " The Dunedin City and Suburban Tramways Act, 1900." Private Acts. 1. " The Rhodes Trust Act, 1901."—Enabling the trustees of the will of William Barnard Rhodes, deceased, to deal with certain lands. 2. "The Ashburton County Council Empowering Act Amendment Act, 1901."—Amending " The Ashburton County Council Empowering Act, 1882." 3. "The Presbyterian Church of New Zealand Act, 1901."—Providing for the management of the property of the Presbyterian Church in New Zealand.

No. 70. (No. 3.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 31st January, 1902. In reply to your despatch (New Zealand, No. 122) dated the 15th November, 1901, in reference to the question as to whether a newly appointed Governor is entitled to receive half-salary from the date at which he leaves England to assume the government, I have the honour to enclose you two copies of the Act which governs this question in New Zealand (" The Governor's Salary and Allowances Act, 1873 "). Section 5 grants half-salary from the date of embarkation to assume the government, but section 6 makes the half-pay to be subject to there being no Governor in office during the time of his journey. The duration the half-salary granted during the journey is presumed to be for the average period such a journey direct takes without unnecessary delays. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902. No. 96.

No. 71. Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 31st January, 1902. I have the honour to enclose you copies of additional resolutions passed by the Natives, corporations, and public bodies in New Zealand, in respect to the calumnies published by certain foreign papers on the British Army and administration, and expressing confidence in the British Government. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosures. From Rotorua Town Council, citizens of Dunedin, Grey Lynn Borough Council, Roslyn Borough Council, Ashburton Borough Council, Kumara Borough Council, Kaiapoi Borough Council, Linwood Borough Council, Palmerston North Borough Council, Onehunga Borough Council, Maoris of Hurunuiorangi, Maoris of the East Coast Tribes, Eltham Borough Council, No. 1, Ladies' Loyal Orange Lodge " No Surrender," Christchurch, Halswell public meeting, Gisborne Municipal Council, the Te Aute College, Maori tribes of the West Coast, Empire Veterans' Association, Auckland; Hamua tribes of the Wairarapa, Taranaki Maori Council, Takitumu Maori Council, Te Oreore Maori Council, Kurahaupo T.iibes, Rangitikei, Hauraki Maoris, Arawa Maori Tribe, Ngaiterangi Tribe at Tauranga, chiefs and people of the Ngatimaniapoto Tribe, Ngatiporou and other East Coast Tribes, Horouta Maori Council, Mayor of Hamilton.

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No. 72. (No. 5.) Sir,— Government House, Wellington, Ist February, 1902. I have the honour, in continuation of my cable of the 29th January, to enclose for your information copies of resolutions passed by other public bodies on the question of army meat contracts for the troops serving in South Africa. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. Canterbury Chamber of Commerce. That, as the conditions for tendering and supplying frozen meat to the army in South Africa were unsuitable to New Zealand shippers, this Chamber is not prepared to comment upon the action of the War Office in placing the recent contracts for frozen meat in Australia with Argentine options. The Chamber requests the Government to endeavour to arrange that special provision be made in future contracts for the inclusion of suitable New Zealand meat, and that ample notice be given in the colony before tenders close. Auckland Chamber of Commerce. Chamber of Commerce Council passed resolution that this Council thanks the Right Hon. the Premier for his efforts to secure for the colony a share of 'the supply of meat to army in South Africa ; hopes that he will be successful in securing such conditions of contracting as will result in a large export from the colonies for army consumption. Hawera Chamber of Commerce. At meeting last night Hawera Chamber of Commerce strongly approve your action in connection frozen meat contract, South Africa. Wanganui Chamber of Commerce. This Chamber heartily supports you in the action you have taken, and trust you will be successful in inducing War Office to treat New Zealand in a fair spirit, which is due to us as members of the Empire. Patea Chamber of Commerce. Cordially indorses Premier's action with regard to frozen-meat contract, South Africa, and hopes he will be successful in impressing on authorities the importance of cementing the commercial interests of the Empire. Westport Chamber of Commerce. Westport Chamber unanimously passed following motion: " That the Chamber indorses the action of the Right Hon. the Premier in his protest to the War Office against giving part of the army meat contract to the Argentine, and, further, resolves that the right honourable gentleman be thanked for his prompt action in not alone looking after the interest of the colony, but also giving prominence to the opportunity of adding solidarity of the Empire in the matter of commerce." Feilding Chamber of Commerce. Chamber of Commerce unanimously carried following resolution : " That this Chamber heartily indorses action the Premier has taken re South Africa army meat contracts, and trust he may be successful in inducing War Office to treat Australasian Colonies fairly by giving them share future contracts." Eltham Chamber of Commerce. Eltham Chamber of Commerce warmly indorses resolutions of the Napier Chamber relating to army contracts recently placed in the Argentine, and hope the Government will be able to secure such contracts for the colonies in the future.

No. 73. (No. 10.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 11th February, 1902. I have already had the honour of informing you by cable, in reply to your despatch (No. 142) of the 27th December, 1901, that my Premier, accompanied by Mrs. Seddon, accepts with pleasure the invitation of His Majesty's Government to visit England for the Coronation; also, by confidential cable in reply to yours of 23rd January, that Mr. Seddon would stay, if possible, for the Conference.

A.-2, 1902, No.-106.

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I have now the honour to inform you that my Premier may not be able, owing to the New Zealand Parliament being then in session, to remain the full term of three weeks. He will, however, remain as long as there is important business. He will arrive in London a few days prior to the Coronation, and is anxious to leave as early as possible. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 74. (No. 7.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 17th February, 1902. I have the honour to enclose you a roll of the men of the Eighth New Zealand Contingent, who sailed in s.s. " Surrey " and s.s. " Cornwall" for South Africa. These rolls also contain the names of those sent to fill up the ranks of the Seventh Contingent, now serving there. A duplicate copy has been sent to General Lord Kitchener. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. . Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 75. (No. 8.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 17th February, 1902. In conformity with your despatch of the Bth December, 1898, regarding gold and silver production, and in continuation of my despatch (No. 28) of the 13th April, 1901, I have the honour to inform you that the quantity of gold entered for export for the year ending the 31st December, 1901, was 455,561 oz., or equal to 14,169-88 kilogrammes, valued at £1,753,783; and that of silver 562,588 oz., equal to 17,499-16 kilogrammes, valued at £64,488. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 76. (No. 9.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 17th February, 1902. In reply to your circular despatch of the 28th September, 1901, I have the honour to forward you a facsimile impression of the public seal of this colony in electrotype, together with impressions of the paper wafer seal used. The present seal is made of steel, and is used with a screw-press, and was made by the Chief Engraver to Her late Majesty in 1881. My Government do not desire any alteration in the design except as regards His Majesty's titles. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 77. (No. 11.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 18th February, 1902. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, No. 100), dated the 19th September, 1901, regarding Suwarrow Island, I have the honour to inform you that the lessees have not been, nor will they be interfered with, so long as they conform to the conditions of the lease. My Government approve of the suggestions contained in paragraph 3 of your despatch, and will indorse the lease when sent to them.

A.-2, 1902, No. 85.

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In granting portions of the Island to the Admiralty, they point out to me that such grants must be subject to the existing lease and the powers therein contained. I have not been able to obtain a copy of this lease from my Government in time to catch this mail, but I presume that there was a sufficiently strong reservation clause to enable what land may be needed to be taken for defence requirements. His Excellency the Admiral has asked for a portion equal to more than one-third of the land of the island, which is itself of small extent. F n r\ vp ix~o The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, ' EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 78. (No. 13.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, sth March, 1902. In reference to your despatch, with enclosures (New Zealand, No. 73), dated the 16th July, 1901, regarding transport " Tagus," I have now the honour to forward you a report on the Bluff Harbour, also a map showing details with reference to depth of water. My Government desire to point out that the chart clearly proves that the Bluff Harbour is quite safe for vessels even of a larger size than the " Tagus." I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902 No. 58.

Enclosure. Sir,— Bluff Harbour, Bth November, 1901. I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 21st September referring to the objection which was made to the troopship " Tagus " coming to the Bluff, and requesting to be supplied with certain particulars, together with any other information which would show that the port and access to it, and the surrounding waters, are safe for vessels of large tonnage. In submitting to you this information, which will prove that the port has been frequented for many years past by vessels of much larger size than the " Tagus " in every dimension, I am directed by the members of my Board to express their opinion that the reputation of the port has been aspersed by the refusal of the authorities to allow the " Tagus " to come to the port on the plea that it was not safe, and by the publicity which has been given in the House of Representatives, and in the public Press, to statements reflecting upon it; that an inquiry into the truth of these statements, and the safety of the port, or otherwise, is absolutely necessary ; and that the result of such inquiry should be communicated to the Board. I have the honour to enclose herewith, in accordance with your request,— (A.) Plan of harbour, showing details with reference to depth of water throughout the harbour and also at the wharves. (B.) Statement showing the names and tonnage of all vessels over 2,000 tons net register entering the port for the two years preceding Ist October, 1901. (C.) Statement showing draughts of certain vessels which have left the harbour at various periods since 1895. (D.) Statement of vessels, over 3,000 tons net -register, which have entered and left the harbour since the Ist January, 1897. With reference to statement (B), I regret that no systematic record has been kept of the draught of vessels leaving the harbour, but the Harbourmaster has occasionally noted some in his logbook, and I have in statement (C) furnished you with these. They extend back to 1895, and the most notable is the s.s. " Rakaia," which left port drawing 27 ft. 9 in. Statement (D) shows a list of equal to sixty vessels, all of larger net tonnage than the " Tagus," fifty of them of greater length, which have entered and left port since the Ist January, 1897. All these vessels have been berthed at the wharves and handled without the slightest mishap. I compare the two largest with the " Tagus ":—

5—A. 1.

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The gist of the statement goes to prove that the port has been frequented for many years past by the largest vessels of the New Zealand Shipping, Shire, and Tyser lines without a single casualty, and no other argument should be needed to prove that the port is perfectly safe for a vessel like the "Tagus," which is inferior in all points of size to those above mentioned. In response to your request for any further information showing that the port and access to it, and the surrounding waters, are safe for vessels of large tonnage, I may mention— (a.) Depth of Water in Channel. There is nowhere less than 30 ft. of water in the channel at low water. The tide rises and falls from 6 ft. at neap to 8 ft. at spring tides. (b.) Channel and Approaches. The channel and entrance are fully and carefully buoyed. Leading beacons, outside and inside, are fixed to indicate the course. The wharves are lit at night by electric light, and the Board is in treaty with the Marine Department with reference to lighting the entrance even more fully than at present. (c.) Berthage. The berthage was deepened in 1896 by dredge 222 from Dunedin : No. 1 berth 500 ft. long, shows from 26 ft. forward to 28 ft. aft at low water. No. 2, also 500 ft. long, has a depth of from 24 ft. forward to 26 ft. aft. Vessels are always berthed with stem pointing up the harbour. No. 3 berth has 20 ft., and the other berths a smaller depth. (d.) Pilotage. The Board has a staff of four pilots, of whom the Harbourmaster is chief. All of them hold master's certificates. It is not too much to say that the Harbourmaster and Chief Pilot, Captain Macdonald, and the Second Pilot, Captain Lovett, are renowned on the coast of New Zealand for the care and skill they display in bringing vessels of large tonnage in and out of port. A fully equipped pilot station is at the Heads, and a signal station on Bluff Hill. The Board last year imported a powerful up-to-date steam screw tug, built to order at South Shields regardless of expense. I may mention that it is the practice to bring in very large vessels only on the top of high water, thus obviating any risk of deviation from the course by tidal current. I may also mention that the Board pays an annual bonus to the Harbourmaster and Second Pilot provided that no accident is experienced, and it has never yet happened that the bonus has been forfeited. No accident has happened to any large vessel within the experience of the present Harbourmaster, now some fourteen years. (c.) Anchorage. There is good and safe anchorage within the harbour for vessels up to 2,000 tons, and immediately outside for vessels of any size. Anchorage and shelter from weather of extremest severity can be had under the lee of Stewart Island, less than twenty miles from the Heads. (/.) Admiralty Chart. The Harbourmaster states that the latest Admiralty chart recently received from your department is substantially correct, with the exception that the depth at wharves is slightly understated. In conclusion, I submit that the particulars submitted herewith entirely disprove the assertion that the port was unsafe for the "Tagus," and reduce it practically to an absurdity. If the plea was urged in good faith, it indicates that the knowledge on the part of the naval authorities as to the capabilities of the Port of Bluff is very limited, and my Board trusts that the Government will take such measures as will remove any misapprehension as to the safety of Bluff Harbour, a port which is rapidly rising in importance, as is indicated by the fact that it will be visited during 1901 by vessels totalling a net tonnage of between 350,000 and 400,000 tons. I have, &c, Geo. R. Gbokge, Secretary and Treasurer.

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Name. Gross Tonnage. Net Tonnage. Length. Moulded Deptb ' Tongariro " ' Indralema " ' Tagus " ... 7,900 6,700 5,545 4,958 4,344 3,056 Ft. 457 450-5 410 Ft. 34 33-10 26-5

A.-l.

(B.) Statement of Vessels over 2,000 Tons Net Register entered and left Bluff Harbour between 1st October, 1899, and 1st October, 1901.—i.e., Two Years.

35

Gross. Net. Length. Breadth. Depth. Moulded Depth. Date. Name. 1899. Oct. 4 „ 15 „ 15 „ 16 „ 20 „ 30 Nov. 5 „ 8 . 17 „ 21 „ 26 „ 28 Dec. 11 „ 12 „ 25 1900. Jan. 2 „ 10 „ 15 „ 15 „ 29 „ 30 Feb. 6 » 7 „ 17 „ 20 „ 20 Mar. 6 7" „ 21 April 3 „ 29 May 16 „ 28 June 5 „ 6 „ 11 „ 27 July 5 7 7 „ 16 „ 23 Aug. 2 „ 3 . 18 Sept. 3 „ 16 „ 19 „ 28 Oct. 4 „ 14 „ 15 „ 21 „ 25 „ 28 „ 30 Nov. 6 „ 12 „ 19 Dec. 4 „ 5 „ 11 . 17 „ 18 Buahine ... Tomoana ... Mokoia Vine Branch Monowai ... Morayshire Monowai ... Mokoia Wakanui ... Mokoia Star of England Monowai ... Monowai ... Mokoia Mokoia Tons. 6,127 5,987 3,502 3,442 3,433 5,576 5,706 3', 782 Tons. 3,926 3,905 2,154 2,177 2,137 3,597 2,137 2,154 3,751 2,154 2,480 2,137 2,154 2,154 2,154 Ft. 430 440 330 340-2 330 420 Ft. 50-1 54-3 43-1 45-6 42-2 54 Ft. 31-6 29-6 24-7 24-5 24-8 28-6 Ft, 34-6 32-6 Not given 32 420 54 28-6 32 371-8 44-2 27-2 30 Monowai ... Gairloch ... Mokoia Monowai ... Virawa Mokoia Monowai ... Undaunted Banffshire... Mokoia Monowai ... Mokoia Vine Branch Perthshire Mokoia Buteshire Morayshire Mokoia Tomoana ... Eakaia Mokoia Paparoa ... Aotea Mokoia Pifeshire ... Nairnshire Mokoia Otorama ... Star of Australia Mokoia Mokoia Banffshire Monowai ... Mokoia Monowai ... Kumara ... Mokoia Waimate ... Longships "Wakanui ... Monowai ... Mokoia Monowai ... Mokoia Monowai ... Buteshire ... Mokoia Moana Monowai ... "« 3,766 2,333 3,159 5,537 5', 550 5', 574' 5,576 5',987 5,628 6,'563 6,364 5,672 5,673 3,935 7,198 6,034 5,610 4,461 5,574 3,915 2,137 2,414 2,154 2,137 2,158 2,154 2,137 2,026 3,719 2,154 2,137 2,154 2,177 3,623 2,154 3,636 3,597 2,154 3,905 3,660 2,154 4,246 4,916 2,154 3,648 3,628 2,154 2,537 4,668 2,154 2,154 3,719 2,137 2,154 2,137 3,907 2,154 3,629 2,843 3,751 2,137 2,154 2,137 2,154 2,137 3,636 2,154 2,414 2,137 354 340 324 420 420 420 420 440 420 430 430 420 420-5 45 43-1 43-1 54 54 54 54 54-3 54 54-2 49 54-7 54-7 25-7 26 17-9 28-7 28-8 28-7 28-6 29-6 28-7 30 29-6 28-8 28-8 28-6 29 20-9 32 I ... 32 32 32 32-6 32 Not given 33-10 32 32 365-5 440 44-2 55-1 19-4 29-7 22 33-1 425-1 54 28-7 32 420 381-8 54 46-7 28-6 27-5 32 30-6 350-4 44-1 32-e Not given

A.—l.

N.B. —Full particulars given in first entry ; subsequent entries, net tonnage only given. Geo. B. George, Secretary, Bluff Harbour, Ist October, 1901. Bluff Harbour Board.

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Date. Name. Gross. Net. Length. Breadth. Depth. Moulded Depth. 1900. Dec. 21 „ 23 „ 23 „ 29 „ 31 1901. Jan. 8 . 13 „ 15 „ 21 „ 23 „ 24 29 Feb. 6 7 „ 12 „ 19 „ 20 „ 25 * 26 Mar. 3 4 „ 11 „ 19 „ 26 April 2 „ 9 „ 16 „ 23 „ 30 May 6 „ 13 „ 16 „ 29 „ 30 June 4 „ 10 „ 13 „ 14 „ 18 „ 26 July 2 7 . 10 „ 12 „ 15 » 17 „ 17 „ 18 „ 22 „ 28 Aug. 6 8 „ 12 „ 14 „ 19 „ 25 „ 27 „ 29 Sept. 9 „ 10 „ 17 „ 23 . 25 „ 30 Croham ... Mokoia Star of England Border Knight Moana Monowai ... Papanui ... Mokoia Monowai ... Knight of St. George Moana Mokoia Moana Vienna Monowai ... Mokoia Banffshire... Monowai ... Moana Nairnshire Mokoia Moana Monowai ... Mokoia Monowai ... Mokoia Wakanui ... Monowai ... Mokoia Monowai ... Mokoia Tongariro ... Monowai ... Matatua ... Mokoia Monowai ,.. Anglo-Australian ... Buteshire... Mokoia Induna Monowai ... Lynalder ... Mokoia Papanui ... Monowai ... Fifeshire ... Kassala Tekoa Mokoia Oeeana Monowai ... May Park... Mokoia Port Denison Monowai ... Waikato ... Mokoia Star of New Zealand Monowai ... Umballa ... Mokoia Monowai ... Wakanui ... Mokoia Tons. 3,228 3,730 6",372 4,710 4,170 7,900 Tons. 2,069 2,154 2,432 2,393 2,414 2,137 4,099 2,154 2,137 2,999 2,414 2,154 2,414 2,653 2,137 2,154 3,719 2,137 2,414 3,628 2,154 2,414 2,137 2,154 2,137 2,154 3,751 2,137 2,154 2,137 2,154 4,958 2,137 2,173 2,154 2,137 2,581 3,636 2,154 2,874 2,137 2,061 2,154 4,242 2,137 3,648 2,498 2,646 2,154 2,310 2,137 2,230 2,154 2,188 2,137 3,071 2,154 3,124 2,137 3,426 2,154 2,137 3,751 2,154 Ft. 330-4 360 430 404-5 376-2 457 Ft. 45-6 46 54-1 48 48 58 Fc. 16-2 25-7 801 274 26-2 Ft. 18-6 28-5 Not given 30-7 Not given 34 3,393 330 41-3 18 9 21-5 4,019 370-4 48-1 20-3 30 4,426 380 49-9 266 28-3 3,223 340-2 45 15-8 18 430 3,825 4,054 370 365-1 48-1 47-1 24-4 29-4 27-6 Not given 3,530 330 45-1 26 28-9 3,476 3449 44-6 26 Not given 3,435 345 46 17 19-3 4*,767 400 48 21 7 24-5 4,840 393-5 46-8 28 81-1 5,310 410 50-7 29 32

A.—l.

(C.) Statement of Draughts of Vessels entering or leaving Bluff Harbour at various times since 1895.

These vessels ronge in size from " Aotea," 4,916 tons net, to " Waikato," 3071 tons net (all larger than " Tagus "), and the draughts from 27 ft. 9 in. to 21 ft. at low water (rise and fall of tide from 6 ft. to 8 ft.). Geo. R. George, Bluff, 7th November, 1901. Secretary, Bluff Harbour Board.

Statement showing Vessels (over 3,000 tons only) entered and left Bluff Harbour from 1st January, 1897, to Date.

Since the Ist January, 1897, i.e., four years and ten months, sixty vessels, all larger than " Tagus " in net register, have entered and left the Port of Bluff, two of them over 40 ft. longer. Geo. R. George, sth November, 1901. Secretary, Bluff Harbour Board.

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(N.B. —It has not been the practice of the Harbourmaster to keep a record of the draughts if vessels, but the following have been incidentally entered in his log-book). Name of Vessel. Draught. Name of Vessel. Draught. Aorangi ... Banffshire a ... it Star of New Zealand a Ft. in. 24 8 22 6 21 (low water) 25 0 25 7 25 6 26 0 26 11 20 (low water) 24 0 27 9 26 6 25 6 25 6 25 6 26 6 Hawke's Bay „ ... Indramayo „ ... Star of England ... Star of Victoria ... Indraghiri Buteshire Ft. in. 26 0 26 6 25 0 24 6 25 0 25 0 25 6 24 6 25 6 26 6 24 0 25 6 27 5 25 9 23 0 25 0 Kaikoura Otarama... Bakaia ... „ ... it Ruahine... „ ... ... Perthshire Morayshire Aotea Waikato it • ■ • Tomoana Nairnshire

Name. Gross. Net. Length. Breadth. Depth. Moulded Depth. Tongariro Star of Australia Paparoa (twice) Aotea Papanui ('three times) ... Buahine (three times) ... Kumara Tomoana (twice) Wakanui (four times) ... Mataura (twice) Naimshire (three times) Fifeshire (twice) Eakaia (three times) Waimate (four times) ... Morayshire (three times) Buteshire (seven times) Banffshire (seven times) Umballa Ujina Indraghiri (three times) Star of New Zealand (four times) Waikato Tons. 7,900 7,198 6,563 6,364 6,372 6,127 6,034 5,987 5,706 5,764 5,673 5,672 5,628 5,610 5,576 5,574 5,537 5,310 5,310 4,927 4,840 4,767 Tons. 4,958 4,668 4,246 4,916 4,099 3,926 3,907 3,905 3,751 3,756 3,628 3,648 3,660 3,629 3,597 3,636 3,719 3,426 3,426 3,181 3,124 3,071 Ft. 457 440 430 430 430 430 425-1 440 420 421 420-5 420 420 420 420 420 420 410 410 400-4 393-5 400 Ft. 58 55-1 54-2 49 54-1 501 54-2 54-3 54 54-6 54-7 54-7 54 54 54 54 54 50-7 50-7 48-2 46-8 48 Ft. 29-7 30 29-6 30-1 31-6 29-6 29-6 28-6 291 28-8 28-8 28-7 28-6 28-6 28-7 28-7 29 29 29 28 21-7 Ft. 34 33-1 3210 34-6 32-10 32-6 32 32 32 32 - 32 32 32 32 32 32 32-3 31-1 24-5 Indralema 6,700 4,344 450-5 55-1 33-10 30-9 agus 5,545 3,056 410 50 23-3 36-5

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(No. 15.) No - 79 - Sift, — Government House, Wellington, 10th March, 1902. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch (New Zealand, No. 5) dated the 18th January, 1902, relative to teachers for South Africa. My Government will endeavour to select twenty, the number desired. I nnvp iY~p The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. ]:, Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 111.

/at mS No. 80. (No. 16.) Sib, — Government House, Wellington, 10th March, 1902. In reply to your despatch (No. 107) of the 27th September, 1901, on the question of the proposed extension of the area of investment of the sinking fund for redemption of the New Zealand 4 per cent. Imperial guaranteed debentures, and containing an enclosure from the Treasury pointing out that the sinking fund will probably fall short of the amount of the loan, I have the honour to inform you that my Government consider that the accretions of the sinking fund will be certain to be found sufficient to provide for the redemption of such debentures as may be out of their hands. In the event of the sale of the debentures in excess of ,£600,000, the New Zealand Government will immediately provide an increased sinking fund, prior to the debentures maturing, sufficient to secure accretions amounting to one million. The New Zealand Government are now paying £4 per cent, on the whole million, and the accretions would be short by some £45,000 or £50,000 when the debentures mature ; but if only £600,000 of this million are afloat there would be an excess of about £355,000. Under such circumstances, my Government consider that it would be useless and unnecessary to increase the yearly charge for sinking fund without any absolute necessity. I have, &c. The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Under Secretary of State for the Colonies.

(No. 17.) No - 8L Sic, —' Government House, Wellington, 10th March, 1902. I have the honour, in reply to your telegram of 25th February, to send you as therein requested copies of the resolutions which my Government desire to be proposed and discussed at the Conference of Fremiers. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. Notices of Motion. (A.) <.That it is essential to the well-being of the Mother-country and His Majesty's dominions beyond the seas, that in such dominions, where the same do not now exist, preferential tariffs by way of rebate of duties on British manufactured goods carried in British-owned ships should be granted, and that in the Mother-country rebate of duty on colonial products now taxable should be conceded. (B.) That it is desirable to have an Imperial reserve force formed in each of His Majesty's dominions over the seas, for service in case of emergency outside the dominion or colony in which such reserve is formed. The limits within which such reserve force may be employed outside the colony wherein it is raised to be defined by the Imperial and the Colonial Governments at the time such reserve is formed, and to be in accordance with any law in force for the time being respecting the same. The cost of maintaining and equipping such Imperial reserve force to be defrayed in such proportion and manner as may be agreed upon between the Imperial and Colonial Governments. (C.) That the Australian Squadron be strengthened : (a) by increasing the number of cruisers; (b) by withdrawing some of the inferior gunboats, and replacing them with modern and better class cruisers ; and (c) by adding torpedo catchers or destroyers, if deemed necessary. The cost of maintenance entailed to be defrayed in the same proportion as provided under the existing agreement, and on population basis.

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(D.) That, in arranging for the administration of that portion of the Empire known formerly as the "South African Bepublic" and the "Orange Free State," provision should be made that duly qualified members of. the learned and skilled professions now admitted and hereafter to be admitted to practice in the Dominion of Canada, the Commonwealth of Anstralia, and in New Zealand, be allowed to practise within the newly-acquired territories referred to. (E.) That it would be an advantage to the Empire to have subsidised mail-services established as between Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Great Britain. The steamers carrying such mails to be British owned, and such steamers to be of such a class and so fitted that in time of war they may be armed and used as cruisers. (F.) That it would be to the advantage of the Empire if triennial conferences were held, at which questions affecting the political and commercial relations of the Mother-country and His Majesty's dominions over the seas could be discussed and considered, as between the Secretary of State for the Colonies and the Premiers of the self-governing colonies. In case of any emergency arising, upon which a special Conference may have been deemed necessary, the next ordinary Conference to be held not sooner than three years thereafter.

/XT 1Q x No. 82. .0M.a.3 (No. 18.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 24th March, 1902. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, No. 109), dated the 9th October, 1901, regarding the decision of the Stipendiary Magistrate at Wellington in the case of the s.s. " Waikato," I have the honour to forward you a report on this matter from the Magistrate (Dr. McArthur) before whom the case was heard. . I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. Sir, — Stipendiary Magistrate's Court, Blenheim, 13th March, 1902. In reference to the accompanying correspondence, I wish to state that, according to the evidence, the " Waikato " started for her homeward voyage admittedly (by her own officers) undermanned as far as firemen were concerned. There was a distinct understanding between the firemen and the chief engineer that three men were to be promoted from trimmers to firemen. This arrangement was not carried out before the ship started on her voyage. It was then, in my opinion, found that the men to be promoted were not qualified, not only under New Zealand regulations, but under any regulations stating the qualifications of firemen. My decision or judgment was based on two grounds : — (1.) That there was a breach of contract between the officers of the vessel (the captain and chief engineer) on the one part, and the firemen engaged on the other part, inasmuch as the former (the captain and engineer) had agreed to engage three duly qualified firemen in addition to those already engaged, and failed to do so ; and (2.) That any vessel trading between New Zealand ports must conform to the requirements of " The Shipping and Seamen's Act Amendment Act, 1894," No. 62, section 9. I have, &c, The Under Secretary, A. McArthur, S.M. Department of Justice, Wellington.

(No. 19.) No ' 83 ' Sir,— Government House, Wellington, 26th March, 1902. At the request of my Fremier I have the honour to forward you the subjoined resolution, passed at the recent Conference at Wellington by the representatives of the New Zealand Chambers of Commerce : — " Frozen Meat. "That, as the conditions for tendering and supplying frozen meat for the army in South Africa were unsuitable to New Zealand shippers, the Conference is not prepared to comment upon the action of the War Office in placing the recent contracts for frozen meat with Argentine options. The Conference respectfully request the Government to endeavour to arrange that special provision should be made in any future contracts for the inclusion of suitable New Zealand meat, and that ample notice should be given in the colony before tenders close." " Metric System. " That this Conference favours the early adoption of the metric system of weights and measures. That the Government be asked to make the teaching of the metric system and decimals compulsory subjects in all public schools. That the Conference respectfully urges the Government to take advantage of the Eremier's presence at the Coronation ceremonials to make representation to the Imperial Government in favour of the adoption of the report of the Selec-

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Committee of the House of Commons, 1895, appointed to inquire whether any and what changes in the present system of weights and measures should be adopted." I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

(No. 20.) No " 84 - Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 27th March, 1902. With reference to your despatch (New Zealand, General) dated the 20th January, 1902, informing me that His Highness Duke Adolph Frederick of Mecklenburg-Schwerin is about to make a tour of the world, I have the honour to inform you that my Government will be pleased to grant every facility to His Highness, and I should be very glad to entertain him should he visit New Zealand. As New Zealand is one of the first colonies in His Majesty's dominions, I trust His Highness will not fail to visit it. I n r\ vp tvp The Eight. Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902. No. 112.

(No. 23.) No - 85 - Sir, — Government House, Wellington, Ist April, 1902., In reply to your despatch circular dated the 21st December, 1901, asking, for the information of the Board of Trade, for copies of any laws bearing on the subject of company legislation, I have the honour to enclose you the various Acts passed in this colony, bound in one volume, namely : " The Companies Act, 1882," the Companies Act Amendment Acts of 1883,1890, 1893, 1900, 1901, " The Foreign Companies Act, 1884," " The Companies' Branch Eegisters Act, 1886," " The Companies' Branch Eegisters Act Amendment Act, 1893," "The Fire and Marine Insurance Companies Act, 1889," "The Companies (Memorandum of Association) Act, 1891," " The Promoters' and Directors' Liability Act, 1891," " The Companies' Accounts Audit Act, 1894," " The Foreign Insurance Companies' Deposits Act, 1894," " The Foreign Insurance Companies' Deposits Amendment Act, 1895," and 1900, "The MiningCompanies Act, 1894," " The Mining Companies Act Amendment Act, 1895," also 1896, 1897, and 1898, "The Mining Act, 1898" (consolidated). I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, ' EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1902, No. 104.

/at oa x No. 86. (No. 24.) Sm, — Government House, Wellington, 3rd April, 1902. I have the honour to inform you that I have this day signed the Proclamation vesting in the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty that portion of the Island of Suwarrow that His Excellency Eear Admiral Sir Lewis Beaumont informed me would be required for naval purposes. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 87. (No. 25.) S IB> Government House, Wellington, 3rd April, 1902. I have the honour to forward you herewith the nominal roll of the Ninth New Zealand Contingent which has sailed for South Africa. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, not given; printing (1,375 copies), £20 7s. 6d.

By Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9o2.

Price Is.]

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