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that encircle the British Islands, but that her colonies all the world over vie with the dwellers at Home in upholding the British flag ; but there is another characteristic of colonists, and that is their attachment to one another, and their pride in the name of colonists. I hope you will give liberally to our fellow-colonists at Ottawa —that you will act promptly, and remember the adage that " the gift of to-day is double that of to-morrow." lam sure that any contribution you may give will receive the rapturous approval of the representatives of the people of New Zealand. G. Maurice O'Rorke, Speaker.

Hon. the Premier. Auckland, 2nd May, 1900. I would like to see the Government contribute, and will approve of whatever course they may adopt. J. Palmee.

Hon. R. J. Seddon. Seacliff, 3rd May, 1900. Be Canada : Would extend sympathy. T. Paeata.

Rt. Hon. the Premier. Gisborne, sth May, 1900. I think we should most certainly contribute. My people here are already collecting money, which they purpose sending to the relief of the sufferers. Wi Pere.

R. J. Seddon. Palmerston North, 2nd May, 1900. Support proposal contribute relief sufferers Ottawa fire from Treasury, and think Government should take same course regard to white man's burden in Indian famine district. Fred. Pirani.

Rt. Hon. the Premier Lincoln, 3rd May, 1900. Looking at sacrifice Canada has made in sending troops to South Africa, and the fact that assistance to be of value must be sent at once, I think Government right in sending contribution. R. Heaton Rhodes.

Rt. Hon. R. J. Seddon. Christchurch, 2nd May, 1900. I approve of Government extending practical sympathy to sufferers by the Ottawa fire on behalf of the people of New Zealand, and will support any action you take in that behalf. G. W. Russell, M.H.R., Riccarton.

Rt. Hon. the Premier. Hastings, 3rd May, 1900. lam conscious Ido not sufficiently know the necessities in connection with. Ottawa fire. First reports are often exaggerated. I do not know amounts covered by insurance, or proportion of loss falling on the wealthy. If New Zealand contributes out of revenue, it should only be after ascertaining that both the Canadian and Ontarian Governments are giving in proportion to population at least double what we contribute. I do not urge this for cheeseparing reasons, but as some evidence of the necessities of the case as proved by donations from responsible and wellinformed authority. At this time, when the various portions of the Empire are being welded, anything this colony can do to help will be wisely done. W. R. Russell.

Hon. Premier. New Plymouth, 4th May, 1900. In reply to your memo, asking my opinion if the Government should contribute to the sufferers by the fire in Canada, my answer is Yes, and also to the Indian Fund to a greater or equal extent, as I believe in the brotherhood of man, and it to be the duty of the State to help each other in times of distress, as it has been reported that you have a record surplus, notwithstanding the money spent on old-age pensions. All acts of mercy and charity are returned with interest in the case of the individual and State and Church alike. Remembering that New Zealand received substantial help during the war troubles help, and help at once. The colony will indorse it. E. M. Smith.

Rt. Hon. the Premier. Molesworth Street, 3rd May, 1900. I approve of New Zealand Government giving to the poor people of Canada who have been rendered destitute by the terrible visitation of some reasonable measures of relief from the fund of the colony, as such acts are or should be the practical principles of federation. John Stevens.

Rt. Hon. R. J. Seddon. Ashburton, 2nd May, 1900. Be Ottawa disaster: New Zealand should certainly show the best sort of sympathy —practical aid — especially as Canadian and New Zealand troops are brothers-in-arms in Africa. At same time, in view of special burdens thrown on colony by war and pestilence, we cannot afford to be lavish. I think a contribution of ten thousand would meet the case. Wm. J. Stewaed.

Rt. Hon. R. J. Seddon. Wellington, 3rd May, 1900. Do not think the fire disaster in Canada one that calls for intervention of Government—must be left to private generosity. Waltee Symes, Stratford.

Hon. R. J. Seddon. Christchurch, 2nd May, 1900. Telegeam received. Should disapprove any payment from Treasury either separately or as part of any general contribution from these colonies. Indian famine graver matter, and no one suggests public grant. W. W. Tannee.