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of plans for the enlargement of the asylum and the removal of these portions; and a considerable time must elapse before the work can be commenced, the architect being engaged with other matters which occupy his whole attention. Meanwhile the overcrowding goes on apace, an addition of 17 to the total number having been made since August last. The laundry is in good working order, with the exception of the drying-closet, which has remained useless from the time of its erection. It is badly needed in the wet season, and should be put in working order, though some expense must be incurred in doing it. The kitchen-block requires entire remodelling to fit it for a larger establishment, and will receive due consideration from the architect. The store-rooms adjoining are by no means convenient or commodious ; but they are very untidy, and might certainly be kept in a more orderly manner by the steward. The front office, occupied by this officer as a bedroom, is devoid of shelves and fittings. These . are very necessary for the proper care of the increasing number of books and papers, and should be supplied. The auxiliary asylum is in good order, and some progress has been made in the cultivation of a flower-garden between the wings. I am glad to note considerable improvement in the kitchengarden, which is under the care of a new gardener, and is now well cropped and clean. The past season has not been very favourable for fruit and vegetables. The farm continues to be a source of occupation and profit. There are now 23 head of horned cattle and about 50 pigs. All the milk used in the asylum is produced here, and a certain amount of butter is churned. With the exception of some potatoes, which have to be purchased near the close of the season, all vegetables required are grown at home. The patients are now permitted to go into the surrounding country in walking-parties. Altogether about 60 enjoy this privilege. Weekly entertainments take place, and others are occasionally organized, which are joined in by the outside public. Divine service is regularly performed, as heretofore, in the auxiliary asylum. The records of seclusion are limited to a very few patients, and would be less frequent if the overcrowding could be reduced. Eestraint has been used with two patients only; in both cases for surgical reasons. The number of unemployed is large. I am aware of the difficulties caused by want of proper workshops, but recommend that an effort be made nevertheless to reduce this large proportion, which is much greater than at the other colonial asylums. The books are all properly kept, and the orders of admission and medical certificates in statutory form. A number of patients' letters, which I examined, had been properly detained from the post. I was glad to find that Dr. Young had returned from sick leave with renewed energies. He is supported by a good staff, and, with improved appliances, will render a good account of his work in this asylum. Ashburn Hall {Licensed House). On the Ist January, 1884, this establishment contained 10 male and 5 female patients ; 6 males and 5 females have since been admitted for the first time, and 1 male readmitted. The total number treated during the year was 27; of these, 3 males and 3 females have been discharged as " recovered," and 3 males as " relieved" or " not improved :" 2 males and 1 female died. The numbers remaining on the 31st December were 9 males and 6 females; total, 15. This institution was visited ty me on the 30th November, 1884, and again on the 30th April, 1885. The following were my remarks in the Inspector's book: — Sunday, 30th November, 1884.—1 have paid a visit to-day to Ashburn Hall (licensed house), and was conducted through the whole establishment by Mr. Hume and the Matron. Everything was as usual in the very best order. No alterations have been made since my last visit as regards the buildings, but improvements continue to be made in the grounds surrounding them. There are now 12 male and 6 female patients on the books. These numbers include one male patient absent on probation. At the time of my visit the majority were gone out for a walk, and I was therefore unable to see them. I examined the books and admission papers; the former were properly kept, and the latter in due form. I also made the prescribed statutory inquiries, and obtained satisfactory answers to them. The medical journal indicates that very little illness has required treatment since my last inspection, and that seclusion is rarely resorted to. 30th April, 1885.—There are this day 9 males and 7 females on the register. One of the males is an inebriate, and is at present on leave, and a female insane patient is also absent on probation. With these two exceptions, I have seen them all. Good health is the rule, the only two under medical treatment being sufferers from epileptic fits. To-day being wet, all are indoors, and there is an entire absence of noise and excitement. All are evidently well cared for and made as happy as their mental state will permit. It is scarcely necessary to remark that the whole establishment is maintained in a state of perfect order and cleanliness. The books are all properly kept, and have been examined and signed by me. The medical journal shows that neither seclusion nor restraint in any form has been resorted to, G. W. Gbabham, Inspector of Asylums.