E.—2

12

sufficiently troublesome to break the continuity of school work. Of course, we have had to contend with the usual little fanatical outbursts by which the uninstructed among the more conservative Maoris show forth their peculiarities when a new prophet or medicine-man is obtainable. It seems, however, that attacks of this malady are becoming milder as time goes on. There has been in one or two cases, which it is quite unnecessary to particularise here, serious trouble, that has temporarily paralysed the school in which it has occurred. On the other hand, the period has been one of development. In districts in which the desire for education had never been previously manifested in a tangible form—as, for instance, the Urewera country—effective demands for schools have been satisfied ; while in places more or less familiar with education living interest has suddenly, and without very manifest cause, shown itself among people who had long been contented with progress of the very easiest " jog-trot " description. On the whole, and in spite of all drawbacks, there is good reason to be pleased with the work done during the year 1896. I have, &c, The Inspector-General of Schools. James H. Pope.