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I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has received all the compensation he is entitled to, and has no further claim upon the colony. 7th August, 1891.

No. 381. —Petition of James Bodkin and Others, of Central Otago. Petitioners, fruit-growers, of Otago, pray that the fruit-preserving industry may be encouraged. I a*m directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 7th August, 1891.

No. 221.—Petition of Peter Doull, of Southbridge, Milton. Petitioner prays that he may receive an appointment in the Civil Service of the colony. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, the petitioner has lost his appointment through a misunderstanding on his part, and should be offered a cadetship in the Civil Service at as early a date as possible. 11th August, 1891.

No. 290. —Petition of Septimus Bacon and Others, of Pahiatua (No. 2). Petitioners state that, in consequence of a report published by the Government, they joined an association which was formed to settle the Kermadec Islands. They allege that said report was erroneous, and pray for consideration on account of losses sustained. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, petitioners have no claim against the colony. 11th August, 1891.

No. 308. —Petition of the Mayor and Councillors, of Picton. Petitioners pray that the Customs dues on an importation of water-pipes may be remitted. I am directed, to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for consideration. 11th August, 1891.

No. 229.—Petition of the Hobson County Council (No. 2) (second report). Petition re the payment of rates on the Kaihu Valley Eailway. This petition being referred back to the Committee by the House on the 29th July for reconsideration. I have the honour to report that the Committee, after having heard the evidenence of Messrs. Houston and E. Thompson, M.H.E.'s, also of Mr. Crombie, Property-tax Commissioner, and further considered the petition, can see no reason to alter the decision already arrived at, and set out in their report, dated the 29th July last, as they consider the responsibility of the loss of revenue sustained by the Hobson County rests with the members of the County Council then in office. 12th August, 1891.

No. 4, Sess. I.—Petition of William Habrison and Others, of Great Barrier Island. Petitioners pray that a mail-service may be subsidised between Auckland and Great Barrier. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government for favourable consideration. 19th August, 1891.

No. 31.—Petition of William Fowler, of Houhoura, Mongonui, Auckland. Petitioner states that on the Ist January, 1888, there was a fire at the Kawakawa Bailwaystation; that in the absence of the railway officials at some races he and four other men saved valuable property from the burning buildings ; that the other men who assisted have been rewarded by the Government for their efforts. He prays that he may be paid the same amount of money as has been paid to each of them. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Government, in order that further inquiry may be made; and if it is found that petitioner's statement of services rendered is correct, then he should be paid the same reward as the other men. 19th August, 1891.

No. 251. —Petition of Stephen Earl, of Katikati. Petitioner prays that a Crown grant may be issued for certain land bought by him. I am directed to report that, in the opinion of the Committee, this petition should be referred to the Waste Lands Committee. 19th August, 1891.

No. 419. —Petition of James Freeman and Others, of Christchurch. Petitioners protest against the Shop Hours Bill. I am directed to report that, as this Bill is now before the House, the Committee has no recommendation to make. 19th August, 1891.

No. 432.—Petition of H. B. Huddleston (No. 2), of Blenheim. Petitioner prays that his case may be reconsidered. I am directed to report that, having further considered the petitioner's case, and having before