H.—l7

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Empire is to be represented in proportion to its population and its importance, the result would be that the representatives of the British Islands would carry everything their own way, and the colonists, even if they were united to a man, would be absolutely outvoted. If, therefore, such a body had powers of taxation, I do not say that you would altogether have a system of taxation without representation, but you would have what was practically very nearly the same thing. With reference to some of the proposals which have been made, I can only say that they could not be carried out without introducing changes in the Constitution as regards the relations between the Executive and the Legislature far wider than any which have yet been made ; but it ought not to be considered that those who do not see their way to any plan of federation are, on that account, indifferent to the extreme importance of consolidating the various parts of the Empire. But, returning to what is immediately before us, I do not think I ought to sit down without mentioning what more properly belongs to my noble friend (the Earl of Kimberley) —namely, the loyal assistance which has been offered by several of the native princes of India. Such expressions of loyalty and good feeling on the part of persons situated as they are are of the highest possible importance, and not merely as a matter of sentiment, but of practical service.

SENIOR ENGLISH. COERESPONDENOE FOR AeSTBACT AND PllECIS-WBITING. No. 1. The Acting Colonial Seceetaby, Sydney, to the Pbemieb, New Zealand. I fokwaed you copy of telegram which I have this day sent to our Agent-General. " This Government offers to Her Majesty's Government two batteries of our permanent field artillery, with ten sixteen-pound guns properly horsed, also an effective disciplined battalion of infantry, five hundred strong. The artillery will be under command of Colonel Eoberts, R.A., and whole force under command of Colonel Bichardson, Commandant. Can undertake to land force at Suakim within thirty days from embarkation. Eeply at once." William Bede Dalley. 12th February, 1885. No. 2. The Peemiee, New Zealand, to the Acting Colonial Secbetaey, Sydney. Heaetily congratulate you on your patriotic offer of assistance, which reflects credit on all the Australasian Colonies. Eobebt Stout. 13th February, 1885. No. 3. The Acting Colonial Seceetaey, Sydney, to the Peemiee, New Zealand. Have just had following telegram in answer to offer of military assistance to England : "Have shown your message to Lords Derby and Hartington. Your offer greatly appreciated, and will be at once considered. Operations in the Soudan expected will have to be deferred, as getting late in season. Sent your offer to Press." William B. Dalley. 13th February, 1885. No. 4. The Acting Colonial Seceetaey, Sydney, to the Peemiee, New Zealand. Have just received the following cable from our Agent-General: "Her Majesty's Government accepts with much satisfaction offer of your Government, upon the understanding that force must be placed absolutely under orders of General commanding as to duties upon which it will be employed. Force of artillery is greater than required. Only one battery accepted. Transport should call at Aden for orders. I am to inform you, in strict confidence, that plans of General not fully formed, but may probably involve placing troops in summer quarters after short campaign from Suakim. After this knowledge, your Government prefer immediate despatch of contingent, War Office does not desire to delay it. Press comment very favourably upon your splendid offer." 16th February, 1885. W. B. Dalley. No. 5. The Acting Chief Seceetaey, Adelaide, to the Peemiee, New Zealand. Have instructed Agent-General to offer Imperial Government to supply two hundred and fifty infantry, with officers, for service in the Soudan. Would suggest that colonies should unite to form an Australian Contingent, as this would be most effective ; and desire to add that MajorGeneral Downes would be happy to place his service as commander at the disposal of the colonies. 16th February, 1885. ' S. Playfoed. No. 6. The Peemiee, Melbourne, to the Peemieb, New Zealand. Be aid to England for Egyptian campaign, Adelaide Government suggests that colonies unite to form an Australian Contingent. This Government quite agree, and will be glad to co-operate with other colonies accordingly. We are informed confidentially from New South Wales that British troops Egypt will probably go into quarters during the hot season, which will give time concerted action amongst colonies. Jas. Seevice. 17th February, 1885.