H.—23.

A few irregularities which can easily be remedied came under our notice, such as broken meshes, want of lacing of netting, &c.—things which should not be allowed to remain ; and we beg to suggest that the officer in charge of the fence be directed to give them early attention. During our inspection we saw scratchings and caught rabbits on both sides of the fence, traces being as numerous on the Canterbury as on the Otago side throughout the whole length of the fence;-and, having seen no indication that rabbits have passed the fence, we are of opinion they must have been on the Canterbury side before the fence was erected. In conclusion, we cannot too strongly impress upon all property-owners north of the fence the very great necessity that exists for immediately taking active and energetic steps in endeavouring to exterminate the pest which so seriously endangers the whole of Canterbury. We have, &c, Thomas Duncan, M.H.E.,1) J. S. Eutheefoed, Babbit-fence J. T. Shaw, j Commissioners. The Hon. J. McKenzie, T. H. Lance, ) Minister of Lands and Agriculture, Wellington.

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