24

A.—3d

that "elements of questionable character" are to bo found in the composition of a West Indian population. Permit mo to say that such a remark would apply to the population of any country; but in certain instances the evil would be aggravated by the contiguity of a convict settlement. Without depreciating the Australian grievance in regard to New Caledonia, I may express a hope that the result of the discussion raised by Lord Eosebery will not be the increase, or the resumption on a large, or indeed on any, scale, of the transportation of convicts to Cayenne. Such a proceeding would cause bitter complaint and indignant protest by British Colonies lying*within reach of the influences of such a vicious centre. "' • Yours, &c. West Indian.

Authority: George Pidsbuey, Government Printer, Wellington.—lBB4.