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I am directed to report that the Committee is of opinion that the petition be referred to the Government for consideration. 15th December, 1879.

No. 392, Session II.—Petition of Antonio Joseph. The petitioner prays for a free grant of land in consideration of services rendered to the early settlers in Otago. I am directed to report that there is no evidence before the Committee to show that the petitioner is entitled to a free grant of land for services said to be rendered to the public of Otago. 15th December, 1879.

No. 121 (1878).—Petition of David Weib. The petitioner prays for consideration in consequence of losses said to be sustained through the miscarriage of and non-delivery of a letter by the Postal Department. I am directed to report that, from the evidence before the Committee, it appears that gross carelessness was shown by the Postmaster at Port Chalmers in not forwarding the letter to its destination. It is also probable that the petitioner suffered some loss owing to the non-delivery of the letter, but the Committee doubt the expediency of the colony acknowledging liability ou account of any neglect on the part of Post Office officials to forward letters to their addresses within a reasonable time. The Committee cannot, therefore, recommend the House to grant compensation in the case of the petitioner, as the proper remedy is for the Government to punish officers guilty of such neglect. 15th December, 1879.

No. 128, Session ll.—Petition of James Divine. The petitioner prays for consideration iv consequence of having been accidentally wounded when on active service in the field. I am directed to report that the Committee has beeu unable to obtain any evidence to substantiate the statements of the petitioner, and recommend the Government to make inquiry into the case, and, if the petitioner's statements are found to be correct, that a sum of £20 be awarded him in full of all claims against the colony. 15 th December, 1879.

No. 390, Session ll.—Petition of H. Barton and Others. The petitioners pray that the duty on spirits may not bo increased. I am directed to report that, as the subject-matter of this petition has been dealt with by the House, the Committee do not consider it necessary to make any recommendation. 15th December, 1879.

No. 391, Session IL—Petition of H. N. Warner. The petitioner prays for consideration in consequence of length of service under Government. I am directed to report that the Committee see no reason to alter the decision arrived at during the session of 1877 in petitioner's case. 15th December, 1879.

By Authority : Gteorqb Didsbury, Government Printer, Wellington. —lB79. Price Is. 3d.]