A.—2

30

perial and colonial service are not allowed to draw such pension so long as they continue in Colonial military employment. I have, &c, J. CHAMBEELAIN. Governor the Eight Hon. the Earl of Eanfurly, K.C.M.G-., &c.

No. 35. (No. 75.) My Lobd, — Downing Street, Ist December, 1898. With reference to my telegram of the 27th September last, on the subject of the apprehended application of the United States coasting-trade regulations to the Hawaiian Islands, I have the honour to inform you that Her Majesty's Ambassador at Washington has been instructed to address a communication to the United States Government prior to the meeting of Congress, representing to them the hardships which would be involved in the exclusion of foreign ships from trading between the United States and their newly-acquired possessions. I have, &c, J. CHAMBEELAIN. Governor the Eight Hon. the Earl of Eanfurly, K.C.M.G., &c.

No. 36. (Circular.) Sic, — Downing Street, Bth December, 1898. I have the honour to transmit to you a copy of a correspondence which has passed between the Treasury and this department regarding a request of the Government of the United States of America to be furnished with information as to the weight and value of gold and silver produced in the British Colonies in the year 1897. 2. If either of the precious metals is produced in the colony under your administration, I should wish to be supplied as soon as possible with the information desired in respect of the year 18. 7, and also with similar information in respect of subsequent years when it becomes available. I have, &c, J. CHAMBEELAIN. The Officer Administering the Government of New Zealand.

No. 37. (No. 76.) Sic, — Downing Street, 13th December, 1898. I have the honour to inform you, with reference to the Secretary of State's circular despatch of the 21st Februan', 1893, that Count Louis Antoine Marie Joseph Henri de Courte has been appointed Vice-Consul of France at Wellington. Her Majesty's exequatur has at once been issued to this gentleman as he is not resident at the place to which he has been appointed. 'ed'waed wingfield, For the Secretary of State. The Officer Administering the Government of New Zealand.

No. 38. (No. 82.) My Lord, — Downing Street, 24th December, 1898. I have the honour to acquaint you that an application has been received from the Belgian Charge d'Affaires at this Court for the issue of an exequatur to enable Mr. E. Oliver to act as Consul for Belgium at Dunedin.