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No. 9. Memorandum No. 188, 1873, for the Agent-General London. Herewith is forwarded copy of the Report of the Immigration Commissioners at the port of Lyttelton upon the ship, " Mary Shepherd." You will note the portions of that report which^ refer to the infringement of the contract, and the unsatisfactory working of the condenser. With reference to the statement that " one of the single women was confined during the passage, and another was far advanced in pregnancy at the time of arrival," I must again impress upon you the necessity of a strict medical examination of all single female immigrants before they embark. Immigration Office, Wellington New Zealand, G. Maurice O'Rorke. 20th August, 1873.

Enclosure in No. 9. Commissioners' Report.—" Ship Mary Shepherd." The Commissioners report that the arrangements on board were generally satisfactory. The immigrants, without exception expressed themselves grateful for the care and attention shown them by the Captain, Surgeon-Superintendent, Matron, and other officials. The cleanliness of the various compartments reflected great credit both upon the immigrants themselves and those in charge of them. The conduct of the immigrants was reported by the Captain, Surgeon-Superintendent, and Matron as having been good throughout the voyage. Six births—two of which were still—and three deaths had occurred on the voyage. One infraction of the contract has occurred, viz., that in the single men's compartment a hatchway existed from whence coals, &c., were obliged to be obtained, rendering it difficult to keep the compartment clean. The quality of the provisions and the service has been good. The condenser had not performed satisfactorily. As far as could be ascertained, the machine was an old one, and leaked from an early period of the voyage. The hospital, bath room, and closets were well arranged. The berths were arranged as well as possible, considering the height between the decks was less than usual. The lighting between decks was imperfect. One of the single women was confined during the passage, and another was far advanced in pregnancy at the time of arrival. The Commissioners remark with approval that none but immigrants being carried, the poop was available for them, and the arrangements generally showed that the suggestions which have from time to time been made have met with consideration. We have, &c, W. Donald, F. B. Gibson, John B. Rouse, J. E. March. Immigration Office, Christchurch, Commissioners. 26th August, 1873.