H.—2o

13

The instruction has been based on the primary-school scheme of instruction, adapted to suit the conditions. In arithmetic the work follows the text-books, supplemented by special instruction and exercises in short methods and mental calculation, and an attempt is made to emphasize the more practical and useful phases. In English the aim is to improve the vocabulary, raise the standard of expression, and increase the facility in the use of the mechanical aids—punctuation, spelling, &c. Work on broader lines is given to interest the men in healthy topics, and to give a sane outlook on life. This is accomplished by means of a study of good literature, discussions of current events, reading of poems, debates, and lecturettes, and a survey of geographical and historical topics. This phase appears to be invaluable, and to reflect in the working-spirit of the men which is very good. The final examination in December was arranged to test the progress of the pupils and to check projected promotions for the New Year's work. All the men were examined, except one or two doing very elementary work. The subjects examined were written and mental arithmetic, formal English, composition, spelling, dictation, writing, and reading. A study of the papers and marks showed that the progress during the year varied greatly ; some pupils having benefited considerably, while others had not shown sufficient advance to warrant promotion. This variation seems to be due partly to innate educability, partly to age, and partly to the desire to improve. The first factor is undoubtedly the most significant one. Quite a number of the pupils have shown excellent effort, and these are the men who quickly make their way into the upper classes, where they are more independent of help. The school could deal with three or four times this class of man. Three of the pupils in Standard VI elected to sit for Proficiency, and all were successful. From a disciplinary aspect the school is working very smoothly, corrective measures being practically unnecessary. This has been accomplished largely through gaining, by interest, a good workingspirit, but is due in a great measure to the excellent influence and tactful control of the Assistant Schoolmaster. The Disciplinary Officer has also rendered great assistance in the carrying-out of his duties in the school. In conclusion, I must record my appreciation of the help and courtesy of the Superintendent and officers of the Prison throughout the year. Hautu Prison. (Officer in Charge, Mr. T. Banks.) At the commencement of the year there were in custody 44 males ; during the year 43 were received, 31 were discharged, 13 were transferred to other institutions, leaving a total of 43 in custody at the 31st December, being a daily average of 38-66 prisoners in custody for the year. The health of the prisoners has been excellent, there being only a few minor cases of colds, &c. The general conduct and industry of the prisoners has been satisfactory, the majority of the men taking a keen interest in the farm-work. There were six prisoners punished for breach of regulations, and one escaped and was recaptured. In the course of the year a new kitchen with conveniences has been erected, also an officers' mess-room, which is a great improvement on the temporary building, and is greatly appreciated by the staff. During the year the prisoners' Sports and Social Committee has been active. A sports meeting has been held monthly, also swimming events were held on four occasions. The tennis-court has been keenly patronized, and provides good healthy pastime for their leisure hours. The spiritual welfare of the prisoners has been well attended to by the local ministers of the various denominations. During Christmas season the inmates of Hautxi Prison were thoughtfully considered by the different organizations. Parcels of luxuries were received from local Church people, a parcel of cake from the Howard League for Penal Reform, and a package of tobacco from the National Tobacco Co., which were greatly appreciated by the prisoners. The vegetable-garden continues to be a success, a good supply of fresh vegetables being maintained for the prison requirements throughout the year. Ten thousand Pinus radiata seedlings were raised. Owing to the increased development of land during the year considerably more cattle and sheep have been purchased. A start was made last season to breed our own flock of Romney ewes. Fourteen Romney rams were purchased for this purpose, and the ewe lambs left by these rams show every prospect of developing into first-class ewes. The following is a summary of the work carried out during the year : 500 acres stumped of tutu and manuka, cleared of fern, and burned ready for ploughing; 670 acres ploughed; 200 acres sown down in temporary pasture, 300 acres in permanent pasture, 150 acres in turnips, and 2 acres in potatoes ; 80 chains of boundary-fences erected, consisting of four posts to the chain and seven wires ; 760 acres of pasture top-dressed. A sheep-dip was also erected. The conduct of the staff has been very satisfactory. Napier Prison. (Gaoler, Mr. W. R. Cook.) At the commencement of the year there were 25 males and 4 females in custody ; during the year 223 males and 4 females were received, and 221 males and 3 females were discharged, leaving at the end of the year 27 males and 1 female in custody. The above figures show an increase of 13 prisoners over the preceding year, but the apparent increase is accounted for by transfers from other prisons and not direct receptions.