Papers Past | Parliamentary Papers | Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives | 1875 Session I | IMMIGRATION TO NEW ZEALAND. (LETTERS TO THE...

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1875. NEW ZEALAND.

IMMIGRATION TO NEW ZEALAND. (LETTERS TO THE AGENT-GENERAL, TRANSMITTING REPORTS UPON IMMIGRANT SHIPS.)

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

No. 1. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 173.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 23rd June, 1874. I have the honor to forward herewith copy of the following documents relating to the ship "Ballochmyle," which arrived at Lyttelton upon Ist instant:— 1. Report of the Immigration Commissioners. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. Referring to your letter No. 1101, of 20th March, advising me of the sailing of the ship, and stating that the ship's book would be sent by the next mail, I have to inform you that this book has not yet reached me, and that very serious inconvenience has resulted in consequence of the Immigration Officer for Canterbury not having been in possession of the information contained therein. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel. P.S. —The book referred to arrived on the 2nd July.

Enclosure in No. 1. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship " Ballochmyle." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship, Ist June, in Lyttelton, after a passage from Plymouth of eighty-nine days. The health of the immigrants was very good ; four births and seven deaths have occurred during the voyage, two adults and five children, of which two were very young. The causes of death are detailed in surgeon's report. The 'tween-decks was very clean ; the provisions of good quality. The children's rations had been abundant; this, as the number of children was unusually large, must have tended much to the preservation of health. The immigrants of all classes expressed perfect satisfaction with their dietary, and -all arrangements made for their comfort. The condenser had on one or two occasions failed, and required the services of an emigrant for repair. The plumbing work was also defective, and required repairing. The Commissioners recommend the payment of the usual gratuities. ¥m. Donald. John P. Rouse. Lyttelton, 2nd June, 1874. J. E. Maech.

No. 2. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-General. (No. 174.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 23rd June, 1874. Herewith I have the honor to forward the following papers relating to the ship "Rooparell:"— 1. Report of Immigration Commissioners. 2. Report of Immigration Officer. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I would particularly direct your attention to that portion of the Immigration Officer's report Note. —The reports of the Surgeon-Superintendents, the Immigration Officers' reports, and other documents of a technical character appended to the Commissioners' reports, it has not been thought necessary to print. I—D. 3.

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which relates to the stowage of the emigrants' luggage, which appears in this case to have been so arranged as to have caused great delay in landing the same, and thus been productive of serious inconvenience to the immigrants. I have, Ac, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 2. Immigration Commissioners' Report on Ship " Rooparell." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, sth June, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival on the 30th ultimo of the ship " Rooparell," with 296 statute adult immigrants. We proceeded immediately on board to conduct the customary inspection, and have much pleasure in stating that we found the ship and passengers generally in a satisfactory condition. The vessel's accommodation is above the average. The immigrants' apartments were cleanly and wholesome, and every necessary convenience appears to have been provided for the passengers' health and comfort throughout the voyage. Owing perhaps in part to the ship's construction, the light below, and especially in the single-women's apartment, was remarkably defective. This arrangement should be avoided where possible, as it is both unfavourable to the preservation of cleanliness as a rule, and has a depressing tendency upon the health and spirits of the passengers. There w rere no complaints of any kind made to the Commissioners. A single case of scarlatina upon the 9th April was the only instance of infectious disease reported by the surgeon-superintendent. This was in a mild form, and the patient, a child of three years old, became convalescent in a short time. One case of chronic phthisis, producing paralysis, and terminating fatally on the 4th of April, occurred during the voyage. A portion of the children belonging to the immigrants ex "Rooparell," at the time of her arrival, looked to be in a delicate state of health, and several of the male and female adults did not present a very robust appearance. Two single men, named S , were especially noticeable for having constitutionally weak eyes, and their physical appearance generally would scarcely qualify them to be considered among the class of persons eligible to be brought out to the colony free of cost. Tho immigrants by this vessel generally, however, appear to be of a satisfactory description, and their conduct while on board is very favourably spoken of by the surgeon and ship's officers. The provisions of all kinds were of excellent quality and in sufficient quantity, and the supply of fresh water also was abundant. In conclusion, we have to recommend that the gratuities be paid to the master, the ship's officers, and the surgeon-superintendent. We have, &c, T. M. Philson, M.D. H. Ellis. Tho Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington, N.Z. I. J. Buegess.

No. 3. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 175.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 23rd June, 1874. Herewith I have the honor to transmit reports by the Immigration Commissioners and the Immigration Officer at Napier, upon the ship " Schiehallion;" also the report on the voyage by the surgeon-superintendent. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 3. Immigbation Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship " Schiehallion." Sic, — Immigration Commissioners' Office, Napier, 28th May, 1874. I have the honor to inform you that the "Schiehallion," Captain Levack, cast anchor outside the Bluff on the evening of Monday, the 25th May, and was boarded on the morning of the 26th, all well. There were two births and three deaths—infants. In pursuance with your instructions, the Commissioners examined and found the condition of the vessel satisfactory, save the single-women's department, which was objectionably situated, there being no means of preventing communication between the single men, married men, and single girls—the departments being all situated on the same deck. The department of the single girls was also very badly lighted and ventilated. The provisions were of good quality, and no complaints were made by the immigrants. The captain laid a complaint against the constables for dereliction of duty ; but on this subject you have been communicated with separately. I have, &c., Geo. Thos. Fannin, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. (for Commissioners).

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No. 4. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent- Gbnebal. (No. 176.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 24th June, 1874. With reference to your letter No. 1093, of 20th March, 1874, relative to a complaint received by you from tho New Zealand Shipping Company of the conduct of the surgeon-superin-tendent of the " Ballochmyle," I have the honor to inform you that I submitted the whole matter to His Honor the Superintendent of Canterbury, and that His Honor, after due inquiry, has expressed his opinion that Dr. Smyth stands acquitted from any intentional wrong doing, and that no deduction should be made from the amount of his gratuity. I have accordingly authorized that it be paid in full. I forward herewith copies of the correspondence upon the subject, in which you will observe that the question is raised as to the propriety of the surgeon-superintendent being required to attend upon the crew and passengers other than emigrants without any remuneration from the owners. Under the present form of charter-party it may be held to be his duty to do so, for he signs the articles as an officer of the ship. It is a matter of very great importance to obtain for emigrants the services of medical officers of character and experience, and therefore care should be taken to secure as far as possible their position and comfort on board the ships, and their receipt of adequate remuneration for services rendered. I suggest to you that it would be advisable in future contracts that if required to perform the duties of surgeon of the ship as well as surgeon-superintendent of the emigrants, these officers should receive a certain remuneration from the owners, the amount in such cases to be arranged with them by yourself; the owners to have the option of employing, if they think fit, another medical officer to attend upon their crew and passengers. Whilst upon this subject, I may observe that my attention has been directed to the fact that the cabins allotted to the surgeons are not fitted up for them, but that these officers, inexperienced frequently in shipping details, find upon embarkation only the four walls of the cabin, without even a bunk fitted up, and have in a few hours, at considerable expense and trouble, to procure the requisites for the voyage. I think this should be amended in future, and the bunk, and a suitable table, shelves, &c, provided, and the surgeons upon appointment informed what articles it will be necessary for them to obtain in order to complete their personal furniture for the voyage. I have, &c., The Agent-General for New Zealand, London, Julius Vogel.

No. 5. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 184.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 30th June, 1874. I forward herewith copies of the following documents relative to the s.s. " Atrato," which vessel arrived at Port Chalmers upon the Bth June instant: — 1. Report of the Immigration Commissioners at Port Chalmers. 2. Report of the Immigration Commissioners at Lyttelton. 2. The Lyttelton Commissioners remark upon the overcrowding of this ship, stating that in one dark corner were berthed six families including twenty-two children. There appears to me in this instance no possible excuse for the overcrowding generally, or for such an arrangement so likely to prove dangerous to the health of the emigrants. The officers of your department must have had ample opportunities, under the circumstances of tho ship putting back into port, to make themselves thoroughly acquainted with the locating and berthing of the passengers, and should have insisted upon a proper supply of light and air being available for all of them. 3. I quite concur with tho Commissioners in their suggestion that the laying on of a vessel containing emigrants for two ports is a thing to be avoided. I have already upon more than one occasion given you my views on this subject, notably in the case of the " Mongol," and I must again impress upon you that only very exceptional circumstances can justify such a course, which in every way results in great inconvenience and no inconsiderable extra and unnecessary expense. 4. Should necessity arise for again shipping so large a number of emigrants in one vessel, which I do not think is generally advisable, I agree with the Commissioners that it is very desirable that a second medical officer should be placed on board to assist the surgeon-superintendent. Had the "Atrato" suffered in proportion to the "Scimitar," for instance, from the outbreak of infectious disease, the attendance upon the sick would have been absolutely beyond the physical power of one individual. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure 1 in No. 6. Poet Chalmees Immigeation Commissionebs' Repobt on s.s. "Atrato." Sic,— Port Chalmers, 10th June, 1874. We have the honor to report that the s.s. "Atrato," with immigrants for Otago and Canterbury, arrived in port on the Bth inst., having made a passage of sixty-four days, including five days' detention at the Cape of Good Hope. Measles having prevailed on board on the passage, the ship was placed in quarantine, pending the decision of the Board of Health. The Board having met next morning, the ship was admitted to pratique, and orders given to remove the Otago immigrants from the ship to Quarantine Island for a few days, for the purpose of washing their clothes before being removed to Dunedin.

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The immigrants for Otago numbered 155 souls, equal to 124 statute adults. There were three births and two deaths on the passage, the latter being children of one year old. Having inspected the several compartments of the ship we found them clean, and well ventilated from side lights and the usual deck ventilators. The passengers expressed themselves as well satisfied with the treatment they had received, and had no complaints to make in regard to the provisions and water, both of which were abundant and of good quality, considering tho largo number of children on board, and disease having broken out early on the passage. Dr. Ellis seems to have grappled with his difficulties with great decision, and in a great measure overcame them before entering port. As the ship proceeds to Canterbury with the remainder of the immigrants, and as she will undergo inspection there, we need add no more. We have, &c, Colin Allan. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. David O'Donnoghue. N.B.—This report refers only to the Otago immigrants.

Enclosure 2 in No. 5. Lyttelton Immigration Commissionebs' Report upon s.s. "Atrato." This vessel arrived at Lyttelton from Port Chalmers on the 20th inst. The Commissioners report that tho health of the immigrants was upon tho whole good, but many of the children remained weakly from the effects of the epidemic of measles which had prevailed. The physique of the immigrants taken generally was, however, much below that of the average of previous shipments. The general cleanliness of the compartments may be spoken of as fair. The Commissioners had not a good opportunity of judging of the condition in which they had been kept during the voyage, owing to the vessel having been discharging cargo from her main hatch at Port Chalmers, thus materially interfering with the cleanliness of the 'tween-decks. The complaints made were mainly of overcrowding. In one dark corner were berthed six families, including twenty-two children. In this part there had been three deaths ; and the Commissioners cannot but feel that had an epidemic of any more grave character occurred, the result would have been a large number of deaths. The ventilation, with the exception of that portion of the lower deck occupied by about twenty families, was generally good, the arrangement of the berths satisfactory, the 'tween-decks lofty, but in many parts insufficiently lighted. This was especially evident in the single-women's compartment. The distilling apparatus was of extra size, and had worked very well. All the extra stores placed on board by tho Agent-General were exhausted long before the expiration of the voyage, and the surgeon had to draw upon the captain, who kindly supplied the deficiency from the ship's stores. The Commissioners recommend the payment of all gratuities. In conclusion, they wish to make the following suggestions, arising from their inspection of the "Atrato," viz.,— That the laying on a vessel conveying immigrants for two ports is a thing to be avoided, if possible. That the carrying of so large a number in one vessel is to be deprecated ; and that should necessity arise for again shipping a similar number, a second medical officer should be placed on board. At one time of the voyage the surgeon reports having had 120 cases of measles under attendance. Had scarlet fever, typhus, or any of the graver diseases broken out, the attendance necessitated would have been beyond any one man's physical powers. Wm. Donald. John P. Rouse. Lyttelton, June 24,1874. J. E. Maecu.

No. 6. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 207.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 28th July, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " James Wishart," which arrived at Auckland upon the sth July instant: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 6. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship " James Wishart." Sib, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 6th July, 1874. We have the honor to report that we made the usual inspection of the immigrant ship " James Wishart " yesterday morning, the sth instant, immediately after her arrival in port. The

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vessel made an average good run of 110 days from London, bringing 278 Government immigrants to the colony, equal to 219 statute adults, all in good health. We found the ship and passengers free from contagious or infectious disease, nothing of the kind having been known on board at any time during the voyage. The arrangements for the accommodation of the immigrants are of the average description to be met with in ships of the class usually engaged in similar service. The ventilation between decks was tolerably efficient, and we found the usual conveniences on board, including a bath-room for the use of the female passengers. Nine deaths occurred during tho voyage, and four births. Of the deaths, five were infants under twelve months old, chiefly of diarrhoea, three were children between eighteen months and seven years of age, of diarrhoea and croup, and a female, named E W , forty-three years of age, of dysentery. The quality of the stores in consumption on the voyage was unexceptionable, and the supply abundant. There was also a good supply of fresh water throughout. The ship was provided with an efficient condenser. No complaints requiring particular notice were made by any of the passengers. In recommending payment of tho usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent and the ship's officers, including the master, chief mate, and purser, we think it right to suggest that in cases where the second officer is commended by the doctor and captain for diligence in attending in turn to the wants and comfort of tho passengers, as in the instance of the " James Wishart," a small gratuity, say £5, should be paid to him also. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington, N.Z. I. J. Buegess.

No. 7. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 209.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 28th July, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of tho following documents relative to the ship " Queen of Nations," which arrived at Auckland upon sth July inst. : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 7. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repobt on Ship "Queen of Nations." Sir, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 6th July, 1874. We have the honor to report that we made the customary inspection yesterday of the immigrant ship " Queen of Nations" as she came up the harbour to the anchorage ground, and found everything on board affecting the health of the passengers in a cleanly and orderly condition. The ship sailed from Belfast on the 21st March, and therefore is 105 days out from home. The immigrants are remarkable for their healthy and robust appearance, and all express themselves well satisfied with the treatment they received upon the voyage. Three deaths and two births occurred on board. The deaths included two children under fifteen months old of diarrhoea, and one unmarried female, twenty-one years of a^e, of enteric fever. No infectious disease of any kind occurred throughout the voyage. The ship's passenger accommodation is very good, and the provisions supplied to the immigrants were of excellent quality, and ample in quantity. The supply of fresh water also was abundant. In conclusion, we have much pleasure in recommending payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent, master, chief mate, and purser ; and, as in the instance of the " James Wishart," previously reported, we beg to suggest that a gratuity of £5 bo paid to the second officer, in consideration of his attention to the passengers in various ways throughout the voyage. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. I. J. Buegess. The Hon. tho Minister for Immigration, Wellington, N.Z.

No; 8. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 210.) Sic,— Immigration Office, Wellington, 28th July, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Caroline," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon 12th July instant:—■ 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, <fee, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

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Enclosure in No. 8. Immigeation Commissioners' Repoet on Ship "Caroline." Sic,— Port Chalmers, 16th July, 1874. We have the honor to report that the ship " Caroline," from Queenstown, arrived in port on 12th instant, having made a passage of eighty-eight days. She-brought to the colony equal to 299| statute adults, among whom were 74 single men and 126 single women. There were five deaths on the voyage, three of whom were infants under twelve months. Wo inspected the several compartments of the ship and found them remarkably clean, the single women's being conspicuous in this respect. The immigrants unanimously expressed themselves as being highly satisfied with their treatment on board. The provisions were good, and the water was abundant. Dr. Pitzgerald, the surgeon-superintendent, and captain and officers of the ship, seemed to have performed their respective duties very satisfactorily. We have much pleasure in recommending that they be paid the usual gratuities. We have, &c, Colin Allan. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. David O'Donnoghue.

No. 9. The Hon. J. Vooel to the Agent-General. (No. 211.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 28th July 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Dunedin," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 3rd July instant: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 9. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repobt on Ship "Dunedin." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship, 3rd July, 1874, eighty-nine days out from Glasgow. All the compartments were exceptionally clean, and the class of immigrants very good. Thirteen deaths and six births had occurred. The provisions were of good quality, and regularly served. The distilling apparatus had worked well. The Commissioners recommend the payment of all gratuities. Wm. Donald. John P. Rouse. Lyttelton, 23rd July, 1874. J. E. Mabch.

No. 10. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 212.) Sib, — Immigration Office, 28th July, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copy of the Immigration Commissioners' report upon the ship " Cartsburn," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 14th July inst. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 10. Immigration Commissionebs' Report on Ship " Cartsburn." Sic,— Port Chalmers, 15th July, 1874. We have the honor to report that the ship " Cartsburn," from Glasgow, with Government immigrants, arrived on the 14th inst. The number embarked were 376 souls —equal to 265 statute adults. There were nine births and five deaths on the passage; four of the latter being from dentition, and one from overlaying. Her passage was ninety-seven days. The several compartments were visited and found pretty clean and comfortable, particularly the single women's, of whom there were twenty-five. The ventilation, by the side scuttles and the usual deck ventilation, was exceedingly good. We have seldom seen a ship more lofty in her 'tween-decks ; the height of which was 7 feet 9 inches. We would, however, remark that the London ships are better fitted, the berths in the latter being fore and aft in blocks, while in the former they are athwart ship and close to the sides. We would take the liberty of recommending that the ships from Glasgow be placed under the same regulations as the London ships, and that the same charter-party should apply to all, so as to secure uniformity in dealing with them. The usual questions being put to the passengers, the answers, upon the whole, were satisfactory.

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The provisions were good and properly cooked, and the water, distilled by one of Chaplin's condensers, was of good quality and abundant. The immigrants by this ship are a superior class, and will readily meet with engagements. We recommend that the usual gratuities be paid to the captain and his officers. We have, &c, Colin Allan. David O'Donnoghue. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. Wm. Thomson.

No. 11. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-General. (No. 213.) Sic,— Immigration Office, 28th July, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Stonehouse," which arrived at Lyttelton upon 29th June, 1874: — (1.) Immigration Commissioners' report. (2.) Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c., Julius Vogel. The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 11. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship " Stonehouse." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship, 29th June, 1874, eighty-two days out from Plymouth. Twenty-two deaths were reported, mostly of young children. The health of the immigrants on inspection was generally good. The general cleanliness, moderate. The immigrants were satisfied with the arrangements of the ship ; the provisions had been regularly served, and were of good quality. The single women were well reported of, and their appearance was, on the whole, satisfactory. The bath-room and closet were in good order. The single-men's compartment was dark and damp. During the detention at Plymouth it was reported that unrestricted intermixture of men and women was permitted. Wm. Donald, ~) John P. Rouse, > Commissioners. J. E. Maech, ) Lyttelton, 23rd July, 1874.

No. 12. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 214.) Sir,— Wellington, N.Z., 28th July, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Loch Awe," which arrived at Auckland upon the 22nd ultimo: — 1. Report of the Immigration Commissioners, 2. Report of the Immigration Officer. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. 4. Report of Commissioners and correspondence with the Immigration Officer, relative to complaints of misconduct on the part of the surgeon-superintendent, in consequence of which, as you will observe, that officer was not paid the customary gratuity of £50. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 12. Immigration Commissioners' Report on Ship "Loch Awe." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, Ist July, 1874. We have the honor to report that we have made the usual inspection on the 23rd ultimo of the ship " Loch Awe," and that we found the ship, crew, and passengers in a cleanly and healthy condition. The stores of all kinds were of excellent quality, and the supply abundant. Also a sufficiency of good fresh water was maintained throughout the voyage, principally by means of a powerful condenser on board. The 'tween-decks accommodation of this vessel is above the average; the immigrants' apartments are wholesome and roomy, and the ventilation throughout appears to have been very effective. Complaints in several instances having been lodged against the surgeon-superintendent, which have since been made the subject of a separate inquiry, we are precluded here from expressing any opinion with respect to the gratuities payable to him; but with this exception, we beg to

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recommend the payment of the usual gratuities to the other officers, including the master, mate, and purser of the ship. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. The Hon. the Minister for Immigation, Wellington, N.Z. I. J. Buegess.

No. 13. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-General. (No. 221.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 30th July, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " James Nicol Fleming," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 24th May:— 1. Report of the Immigration Commissioners of their inspection of the ship. 2. Report of the Immigration Officer. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. 4. Report of the Commissioners of an investigation held by them into certain charges made against the surgeon-superintendent. The Commissioners recommend that the surgeon-superintendent should be paid neither gratuity nor head money; but, considering that he might be without funds, and that he had performed some medical duties, I have authorized that he be paid a sum of £25, in addition to the £30 advanced to him in London. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 13. Immigration Commissioners' Report on Ship " James Nicol Fleming." Sir,— Port Chalmers, 26th May, 1874. We have the honor to report that the " James Nicol Fleming " arrived in port from London on the 24th instant, having made a passage of ninety-two days. She brought to the province 369 souls, equal to 299J statute adults, all being Government immigrants. The whole of the immigrants arrived in good health, there being very few cases of sickness, and not a single death. The immigrants expressed themselves in high terms of the manner in which they were treated by the captain and his officers. A formal complaint was made against the surgeon-superintendent, for his inefficiency as a medical man. An investigation will be made into the matter by the Immigration Officer. We cannot recommend that he be paid his gratuity in the meantime. The ship arrived in port in a very creditable state, all the compartments being exceedingly clean. The ventilation was through the deck, and appeared effective. The condenser (Chaplin's) did its work well, and supplied water sufficient for all purposes. We congratulate Captain Peacock and his officers in having arrived in port without a death, and recommend that they be paid the gratuities assigned to each. We have, &c, Colin Allan. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. Wm. Thomson.

No. 14. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-General. (No. 222.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 30th July, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copy of the Immigration Commissioners' report upon the ship " Hereford," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 14th July. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 14. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship " Hereford." Lyttelton, 14th July, 1874. The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship, July 14th, 1874, eighty-four days from Gravesend. Two births and four deaths occurred amongst the immigrants. The health of the immigrants was good ; character very good. All classes united in expression of kindness and gratitude to the captain, surgeon, and officers of the ship. The cleanliness of every part was very remarkable, and the health and cheerfulness of all classes equally so. The condenser (Graveley's) had worked well. The bath-room and closets were well arranged. The Commissioners recommend the payment of the usual gratuities. William Donald. John P. Rouse. His Honor the Superintendent of Canterbury. J. E. March.

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No. 15. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 223.) Sir,— Immigration Office, Wellington, 30th July, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Hindostan," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 13th July:— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. • 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Voqel.

Enclosure in No. 15. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship " Hindostan." Sic,— Port Chalmers, 14th July, 1874. We have the honor to report that the ship "Hindostan" arrived in port from London on the 13th instant, after a passage of 107 days. She brought to our shores 343 souls, equal to 278 statute adults, who, with few exceptions, appear to be suitable for the requirements of the colony. There were three births and four deaths, the latter being three infants and one adult. The ship, on being immediately inspected, was found to bo well fitted, and ventilated by hatchways and side scuttles. The compartments were evidently kept very clean throughout the voyage. The usual questions being asked in the several compartments visited, the immigrants, with one solitary exception, expressed themselves as fully satisfied with their treatment, and spoke in laudatory terms of the kindness and attention of Dr. Withers, surgeon-superintendent, to their varied wants. One of the immigrants, who had evidently proved troublesome on the voyage, would have bred a disturbance had he got others to join him. lie complained that the provisions were not properly cooked; but tho Commissioners, on investigating the matter, found the complaint frivolous and without proper foundation. The hospitals, bath-rooms, and closets were inspected, and found in good order. The condenser (Graveley's) did its work well, and the cooking range was equal to its requirements. We believe that the requirements of the Passengers Act and the charter-party were fully complied with. Captain White and his officers appear to have performed their duties faithfully, and we have pleasure in recommending that their gratuities be paid to them. The extra stores put on board for children were used on the passage. We have, &c, Colin Allan. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. David O'Donnoghue.

No. 16. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 224.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 31st July, 1874. I have the honor to transmit the following documents relative to the ship "Northampton," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 6th June ultimo, and was placed in quarantine in consequence of fever and small-pox having prevailed during the passage : — 1. Report of the Immigration Officer upon the arrival of the ship. 2. Report of the Immigration Commissioners of the inspection after her admission to pratique. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 16. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repobt on Ship "Northampton." Lyttelton, 14th July, 1874. This ship arrived June 6th, 1874, seventy-two days out from Plymouth. A modified form of small-pox had prevailed. Vessel put in quarantine ; immigrants placed in lazaret at Ripa Island. The Commissioners recommend the payment of the usual gratuities. Wm. Donald. John P. Rouse. J. E. Maech. I examined this ship after departure of passengers, and after fumigation. The arrangements on board were quite satisfactory. W. D.

No. 17. The Hon. the Ministee for Immigeation to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 226.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 7th August, 1874. I have the honor to transmit to you herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Halcione," which arrived at Napier upon the 10th ultimo : — 2—D. 3.

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1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report, covering remarks of the Surgeon-Superintendent. 3. Certified list of births and deaths during the passage. I desire to call your attention to tho complaint relative to the insufficient quantity of medical comforts. lamat a loss to understand why my instructions as to shipping an extra quantity in charge of the surgeon was not carried out in the case of this ship, especially as she carried so largo a number of children. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 17. Immigration Commissioners' Report on Ship " Halcione." Sic, — Immigration Commissioners' Office, Napier, 21st July, 1874. I have the honor to inform you that the " Halcione," Captain Croker, arrived in the roadstead on Sunday morning, the 10th instant, having been towed in by the s.s. "Rangatira," all well. There were two births and two deaths. I regret to report the death, from apoplexy, of Captain Wright, who left England in charge of tho "Halcione." In accordance with instructions, the Commissioners examined and found the vessel and provisions all that could be desired. The accommodation for the single women was a great improvement on the " Schiehallion," both as regards the prevention of communication with the other parts of the vessel and the ventilation. The immigrants, without exception, expressed themselves fully satisfied with the treatment they had received on board from the doctor and officers of the ship ; also with the provisions supplied to them during the voyage. I have, &c, G. T. Fannin, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington, N.Z. (for Commissioners).

No. 18. The Hon. the Ministee for Immigeation to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 227.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 12th July, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Waikato," which arrived at Wellington upon the 11th ultimo : — 1. Report of the Commissioners, covering the remarks of the Surgeon-Superintendent. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I commend the remarks of the Commissioners to your favourable consideration. I have, &c, Julius Vooel. The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 18. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repobt on Ship " Waikato." Sic,— Wellington, 17th July, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Waikato," on the 11th instant, with 296 statute adult immigrants ; four deaths—equal to one statute adult—and three births occurred during the voyage. As soon as possible after the vessel anchored wo proceeded on board, but as it was getting dark we were unable to inspect either the ship or the immigrants ; we merely had time to walk through the 'tween-decks, which we were very pleased to find scrupulously clean. On Monday, the 13th instant, we mustered the immigrants and inspected the ship. On the whole, we consider the immigrants a fair sample; but we are of opinion that more care should be exercised in selecting the single men, most of whom seem to have been drawn from the East-end of London, being unfit for the requirements of this province; and a perusal of the surgeon's journal convinced us that there were bad characters amongst them. This is borne out by the fact that some of them were given into custody for broaching cargo on arrival. The immigrants had no complaints to make, and they all seemed healthy and contented after their protracted voyage. On inspecting the ship we found the single women located in the 'tween-decks, abaft the after hatch, half of which was apportioned to them. The compartment was lighted and ventilated by five side ports, two patent ventilators, and two bits which were ventilators; it was very clean and tidy. The bath-room and water-closets were good, so also was the hospital, but we consider it was in a wrong place; in our opinion, all hospitals should be on deck, and in this opinion we are supported by all surgeons and captains to whom we have mentioned the subject. The matron's cabin was dark and badly placed. The married compartment extended from aft to forward of the main hatch, the people having the use of that hatch and half the after hatch; it was ventilated and lighted by fifteen side ports, two scuttles, two bits, and a large skylight.

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The issuing-room was in this compartment, under tho main hatch. We have before remarked upon this, and wo now merely state that in our opinion it was in a wrong position, and too small. The hospital and dispensary were also in the compartment. This we consider wrong: they should be under the poop, and the dispensary should have some necessary articles and fittings, such as filter, basin, towels, shelves, &c. The single men were forward, and they had a very comfortable place, well lighted and ventilated by eight side ports, four bits, and two large ventilators; the masts were also ventilators. The bunks throughout the ship were in blocks, which is an exceedingly good arrangement; but wo would recommend a narrow alley-way between the bunks and the side of the ship, to enable persons to get round for cleaning purposes. The surgeon also recommends that a small shelf should be placed round the ship, on which the immigrants can keep their mess utensils, &c.; at present they have no convenience of this kind, and many of them have to keep their tins, &c, in their bed-places when not in use. We regretted to find that the ladders and hatchways were still of the same flimsy description. We cannot understand what difficulty there would be in erecting a house over the hatches instead of the small booby-hatches at present used, which are not high enough to prevent the water from the deck going below. The surgeon states that he had no extra stores placed under his charge, but the captain informs us that he had a quantity of eggs, arrowroot, &c, sent off to him at the last moment at Gravesend by the Shipping Company; most of the eggs, however, went bad. The galley was large and convenient, and the condenser (Graveley's) worked well. Taking everything into consideration, we believe tho " Waikato " is one of the best immigrant ships which has come into this port. She was remarkably clean, and the people were all in good health. Captain Hodder and Surgeon-Superintendent Payne seem to have used every endeavour to promote the health and happiness of the immigrants. In conclusion, we append the surgeon's remarks upon the voyage, and recommend the payment of all gratuities. We have, &c, Alex. Johnston, M.D. John Hollidat. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. H. J. H. Eliott.

No. 19. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration to the Agent-General. (No. 236.) Sir, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 21st August, 1874. I have the honor to forward herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Sussex," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 17th ultimo: — 1. Report of the Immigration Commissioners. 2. Report of the Surgeon-Superintendent. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. The remarks -of the surgeon-superintendent, with reference to tho condenser, call for very serious attention. Tou will observe he states, "My conviction is, that we never ought to have put to sea with an apparatus so defective. The survey here was utterly useless. Although I personally appealed to the surveying engineer superintending the repairs at Gravesend at the time, he assured me it would be all perfectly safe, and that the man in charge of the engine knew his duties, and was quite competent for his task. Had it not been for the immigrant on board who showed great ability and perseverance in overcoming all the defects, we should undoubtedly have been short of water before half the voyage was over." I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 19. Immigeation Commissioners' Report on Ship "Sussex." Sir,— Port Chalmers, 20th July, 1874. Wo have tho honor to report that the ship " Sussex" arrived in port from London on the 27th inst., having made a passage of ninety-one days. The immigrants by her numbered 489 souls, equal to 400 statute adults. There were two births and eight deaths on the passage, the latter being children of tender age, two of whom were ill when they embarked. The general health of the immigrants was very satisfactory, there being only one man confined to bed on the arrival of the ship. On inspection, we have great pleasure in bearing testimony to the extreme cleanliness of every compartment of the ship, for which the surgeon-superintendent and matron deserve every praise. The fittings were as usual in London ships. On the usual questions being asked by the Commissioners, the immigrants unanimously expressed their satisfaction with the treatment they had received on the passage. We confidently assert that the provisions of tho charter-party and Passengers Act were complied with to the letter. The medical comforts and extras put on board for children were abundant, and given out as necessity required. Tho captain,. surgeon-superintendent, and officers performed their respective duties very conscientiously, and we recommend that they be paid the usual gratuities. We have, &c, Colin Allan. His Honor the Deputy Superintendent of Otago. David O'Donnoghue.

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No. 20. The Hon. the Ministee for Immigeation to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 237.) Sib,- — Immigration Office, Wellington, 18th August, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Carrick Castle," which arrived at the Bluff upon the 13th July, 1874 :— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 20. Immigration Commissioners' Report on Ship " Carrick Castle." Immigration Office, Invercargill, 25th July, 1874. The immigrant vessel " Carrick Castle" arrived at Bluff Harbour on the 13th July, 1874, at 4 p.m., having left on 27th April. Health.—"Ftotn inquiry the Commissioners learned that the health of the immigrants during the voyage had been very good. Provisions. —That the provisions were good, and had been served out in accordance with the dietary scale and to the entire satisfaction of the surgeon-superintendent. Water. —That the supply of water was ample, the distilling apparatus having worked well. Conduct. —That the conduct of the immigrants in each compartment had been on the whole very good. Class. —The immigrants were all of the labouring class, and on the whole better fitted to meet the requirements of the district than those previously sent out. Cleanliness. —From personal investigation the Commissioners ascertained that the ship had been kept thoroughly clean, great care having been exercised in this respect. Compartments. —That the compartments were arranged according to contract, as also the hospitals, of which there were three. Bath-room. —That a bath-room, with proper appliances, had been provided in the single-women's apartment, in which was one closet. Complaints. —The immigrants on the whole spoke gratefully of the kindness shown them by the captain, doctor, and officers of the ship. Two hundred and forty-four adults. —The total number of adults landed at the Bluff was 244, of whom equal to 10J adults elected to proceed to Dunedin to join their friends. Births and Deaths. —The surgeon-superintendent reports four births and six deaths during the voyage. General Remarks. —The arrangements of the whole vessel were very similar to those of the " William Davie," of which vessel and arrangements the Commissioners reported so favourably. We have much pleasure in recommending the following gratuities to be paid to the officers: — Captain Thyne, £25; surgeon-superintendent, £172; first mate, Robert Slater, £10; third mate, Stephenson, £5 ; purser, £5; together with the other gratuities usually given to matron, constables, and schoolmaster. The Commissioners have much pleasure in commending the captain, surgeon, and officers of the ship for the untiring energy and zeal which they have displayed during the voyage in securing, as far as possible, the comfort of the immigrants. The small number of deaths speaks well for the healthy condition in which the passengers have been preserved. It appears that during the passage the temporary main hatch was washed away, necessitating tho closing of this hatchway altogether from time to time for the comfort of the passengers, and the opening of a passage through the single-men's compartment. As the loss of a main hatch at a time when the vessel's decks are frequently getting filled with water must be the source of great discomfort to the passengers, from the amount of water which must necessarily get below at the time, we are of opinion that such hatches should be more substantially made than they generally are ; and that instead of the top being made at an angle of about 45 degrees, which gives to a wave falling on board its greatest effect, that they should be arched or otherwise constructed so as to better withstand the force. Notwithstanding the completeness of the general arrangements of the ship, the Commissioners feel compelled to call attention to the dispensary and issuing-rooms, which were cramped in size and badly situated, being immediately under the main hatch. Although, as already stated, the majority of the immigrants are a superior sample, we cannot conclude this report without calling the attention of the Government to the fact that several of them are utterly unfitted for the requirements of a new country; some are pensioners who are physically incapacitated for hard work, and yet have large families of young children. They state that Mrs. Howard informed them that the New Zealand Government would readily employ them as military police, finding them comfortable quarters. If this statement be correct, a grave injustice has been perpetrated, as the men, from their testimonials, have left good employment to become a burden on the colony at no inconsiderable expense. Walter H. Peabson. Wm. P. Geigoe, Surgeon. Tnos. Thomson.

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No. 21. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration to the Agent-General. (No. 238.) Sir, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 24th August. 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Peter Denny," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 26th ultimo: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 21. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship " Peter Denny." • Sic, — Port Chalmers, Ist August, 1874. We have the honor to report that the ship " Peter Denny " arrived in port from London on the 26th ultimo, with Government immigrants, numbering 363 souls, equal to 301J statute adults. There were three births and three deaths on the passage. The ship came into port in fine order, being unusually clean in every compartment, which reflects credit upon Dr. Button, the surgeon-superin-tendent, who seems to have been indefatigable in his efforts to promote the health of all on board. The general health of the immigrants was good throughout the voyage, no disease of any infectious or contagious nature having appeared on board. The shij) was well fitted and very fairly ventilated by deck ventilators. Tho immigrants, without a dissenting voice, expressed themselves as being fully satisfied with their treatment. We are satisfied that the provisions of the Passengers Act were complied with to the letter. The master and his officers performed their respective duties to the immigrants faithfully, and we have pleasure in recommending that they be paid their respective gratuities. We have, &c, Colin Allan. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Deputy Superintendent of Otago. David O'DoNNOGnuE.

No. 22. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-General. (No. 239.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 25th August, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Miltiades," which arrived at Auckland upon the 23rd ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. 4. Correspondence relative to the disposal of a family named Joy, who stated that they had shipped for Taranaki, although their contract ticket showed Auckland to be their final destination. I have, &c, Tho Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 22. Immigration Commissioners' Report on Ship " Miltiades." Sib, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 31st July, 1874. We have the honor to report that we made the usual inspection in the case of the ship " Miltiades "on the 24th instant, the morning after her arrival in port. We found tho immigrants as a body in a satisfactory state of health. Indeed, the condition of the ship throughout, both in respect to cleanliness and good order, is highly creditable to Captain Perrett and his officers ; the surgeonsuperintendent, Dr. Harding ; and the employes of all grades acting under their orders. The "Miltiades" in every way may be considered a very superior ship ; her passenger accommodation for the service in which she has been engaged is of a high order, her 'tween-decks are roomy and well lighted, and the fitting up of the sleeping apartments of the immigrants has been carried out in an efficient manner. The ventilation of the ship, also, was all that could be desired. Ten deaths in all occurred during the voyage out of a total of nearly 500 souls on board, inclusive of immigrants and the ship's company. Nine of the deaths were of children under four years of age, and about two-thirds of these were infants under four months old. The only adult whose death is recorded was an old man over sixty years of age, who died of pneumonia, accelerated by heart disease. There were six births during the voyage. We found the stores on board the " Miltiades " of the best description, which, as well as the supply of fresh water, were sufficient for all purposes. The ship is fitted with a powerful condenser, in good working order. The whole of the passengers expressed themselves well satisfied with the treatment they had received throughout the voyage.

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We recommend tho gratuities being paid to tho surgeon-superintendent and the ship's officers, including the second mate, whom, for efficient service rendered the immigrants, we recommend, as in the instance of the two last immigrant ships arriving here, to receive a gratuity of five pounds. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Buegess.

No. 23. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 240.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 25th August, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship "Conflict," which arrived at Port Nicholson upon the 3rd instant: — 1. Report of Immigration Commissioners, covering report of the Surgeon-Superintendent. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 23. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship "Conflict." Sir,— Wellington, 12th August, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Conflict" on the 3rd instant, with 362^statute adult immigrants ; nine deaths, equal to four adults, having occurred on the voyage. On inspecting tho ship and immigrants, we found the single women berthed under the poop in a light and well-ventilated compartment; the berths were in blocks, with alley-ways all round. We have always advocated this system of berthing immigrants, and were pleased to find that it has at.last been adopted. We would further suggest, however, that there should be a small shelf along the skin of the ship, in the alley-way, on which the immigrants could keep their mess utensils, &c. The hospital, closet, and bath-room in this compartment were good. The married compartment extended from the after part of the vessel to forward of the main hatch. The bunks were on tho same system as in the single-women's compartment, and there was plenty of light and ventilation. The hospital was commodious and well ventilated, but in our opinion it was wrongly placed,"under the main hatch and in the most noisy part of the ship. The dispensary and issuing-room were also under the main hatch, opposite to the hospital. The single men were in the forward part of the ship, and had a better compartment than most of this class of immigrants have in ships to this port. It was light and airy, and had plenty of room in it. The hospital was on deck, but badly placed, and we would refer you to the remarks of the surgeon-superintendent upon its position ; both Captain Hardy and Dr. Whitelam state that they protested against this hospital being placed where it was before the vessel sailed. The cooking range was sufficient for the requirements of the vessel, but the galley was not large enough to afford proper convenience for the large number of passengers on board. The condenser worked well during the voyage. With regard to the people themselves, we feel bound to remark that in our opinion many of them should not have been selected as immigrants to this colony; and in proof of this we would refer you to the statement of the surgeon-superintendent, in the letter appended hereto, with regard to the medical examination of the people before embarkation, and especially the remark of Dr. Humphries, when a consumptive child was pointed out to him, "It will improve on the journey." It is evident that this is not the class of people required in the colon}', where there is plenty of hard work to be done, and moreover it is only by a very liberal expenditure of medical comforts during the voyage that many of the children and some of the adults were landed alive. A glance at many of the immigrants would be sufficient to show that they must have been drawn from the centres of population, and it does not require the eye of a practitioner to detect the existence of organic disease in various forms amongst the young children. The surgeon has also complained that the ship was not ready for some days after many of the immigrants arrived in London, and they were maintained at low lodging-houses, without the slightest restraint being placed upon their actions. In conclusion, wo beg to recommend the payment of all gratuities, and to state that in our opinion both Captain Hardy and Surgeon-Superintendent Whitelam have done all in their power to promote the health, comfort, and happiness of the people placed under their charge. Dr. Whitelam is especially qualified to perform the duties of surgeon-superintendent, having had experience under the Imperial Immigration Commissioners. We have, &c, Alexandeb Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent of Wellington. John Holliday.

No. 24. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-General. (No. 241.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 26th August, 1874. Referring to my letter No. 237, of the 18th instant, in which I transmitted copy of tho report of the Immigration Commissioners at Invercargill upon the " Carrick Castle," I have the honor to

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forward copy of a supplementary report, in which the Commissioners remark more particularly upon the physical and moral character of the emigrants, and tho negligence which must have been displayed in the medical examination and investigation as to antecedents by the local agents attached to your department. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 24. Supplementary Report of Immigration Commissioners upon " Carrick Castle." Invercargill, 13th August, 1874. In connection with our report on the " Carrick Castle," of the 25th July, 1874, tho Commissioners beg to bring the following points under the attention of the Government: —■ 1. Judging from cases in the two immigrant ships which have arrived at the Bluff, tho "William Davie" and "Carrick Castle," there seems to be a reprehensible desire, on the part of those who obtain a gratuity or head-money for inducing emigration to New Zealand, to thrust on the colony a number of persons utterly disqualified by physical ailments, age, and occupation, to support themselves in a new country such as this. 2. The majority of these are, by their own account, induced to emigrate by the false representations of the appointed agents; notably in the case of old pensioners, who have, according to their statements, been led to believe that they will be employed by the Government as military police. 3. That however reprehensible the conduct of those may be who stimulate such an emigration, that of the inspecting officers who pass the emigrants is infinitely worse, as it is a direct dereliction of a duty for which we presume a specific sum is paid. The Commissioners do not refer to ordinary cases, which, in the hurry of embarkation, might easily be overlooked, but to those which the most perfunctory inspection by unprofessional officers would instantly detect. Although there have been only two vessels direct to the Bluff arrived, several of the immigrants have become permanent inmates of the hospital from the moment of their arrival, and will be a burden on the community till they die. 4. There seems, judging from the conduct of some of the immigrants after they have landed, to have been no attempt made to ascertain their moral character or steadiness of habit before leaving; but that all who have presented themselves as emigrants have been accepted without inquiry, and, in fact, been induced to emigrate by the agents for the sake of the bonus. Walter H. Pearson. Wm. P. Grigor, Surgeon. Thos. Thomson. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington.

No. 25. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 242.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 26th August, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Adamant," which vessel arrived at Nelson upon the 7th instant: —■ 1. Report of the Immigration Commissioners, covering the report of the Surgeon-Superin-tendent. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon tho voyage. I shall be glad to receive an explanation with reference to that portion of tho Commissioners' report which states that " several of the emigrants complain of a long detention at Gravesend, having had orders to present themselves five weeks before the vessel was ready to receive them." I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 25. Immigration Commissioners' Report on Barque " Adamant." Sir,— Nelson, Bth August, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival last night of the barque "Adamant," Charles Grant master, ninety-two days out from Plymouth. She sailed with 340 souls (283 statute adults) on board. Three births occurred during the voyage and twelve deaths. These .were due to an outbreak of an epidemic of measles twelve days after leaving port, and which, in the opinion of the surgeon, originated in the depot. The disease was successfully dealt with, so far as limiting it to the quarters of the married people ; but ttvelve infants, all with one exception under one year, were carried off by it, and the concomitant bronchitis and diarrhoea. Fifty children were attacked; the last case of convalescence being registered on 11th July. On mustering the passengers, they all without exception expressed themselves gratified at the kind treatment and attention they had received at the hands of the captain and officers. Similar testimony was given in favour of the surgeon-superintendent, Mr. J. Nuinaßat, two only dissenting— parents of children who had died, who complained of want of attention on the part of the doctor at the commencement of tho voyage ; but considering the high character for skill and attention given to the surgeon by others who had similarly suffered, confirmed as it is by the testimony of the captain and officers, we think the complaint may be considered as not of much importance.

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Whilst it affords us pleasure to find the whole body of immigrants eager to bear testimony to the attention of the captain and officers for the comfort they enjoyed during the voyage, it is with equal pleasure we can report that the captain and officers speak in favourable terms of the immigrants themselves, giving them an excellent character of cleanliness, cheerfulness, and general good behaviour. They appear to be of a useful class, well.selected, and likely to be serviceable to the colony. The " Adamant " made a good passage to Canterbury last year ; is a dry ship, and well calculated for carying emigrants; the arrangement for classifying the passengers well carried out; the various compartments clean and well ventilated; the bunks sufficiently roomy and fittings substantial; the supply of provisions ample and of good quality. The condenser has worked admirably, as it did according to the engineer's report during the previous voyage, being capable of supplying 750 gallons per diem. Of medical comforts and medicines there has been a sufficiency. The surgeon, however, has felt the want of many of those medicines which are now made up in proper doses and combinations ready for immediate administration. The difficulty of weighing out small doses of medicine for a number of cases in a gale of wind can be realized. We cordially indorse his suggestion, that a selection of these " coated granules" should form part of the supply of the medicine chests. We append the surgeon's report, and have much pleasure in recommending him for future employment, should he desire it. Several of the immigrants complain of a long detention at Gravesend, having had orders to present themselves five weeks before the vessel was ready to receive them. We have much pleasure in recommending all the officers for the usual gratuities. Leonaed Boor. James S. Ceoss. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration. C. Elliott.

No. 26. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 247.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 27th August, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copy of a very satisfactory report by the Immigration Commissioners upon the " Reichstag," which vessel arrived in Port Nicholson upon the 6th instant. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 26. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship "Reichstag." Sic,— Wellington, 17th August, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Reichstag," from Hamburg, on the 6th instant, with 2SO adult immigrants. Only one death occurred during the voyage, viz. a child from dropsy. On inspecting the vessel, we found the single women located under the poop. They had plenty of room, light, and ventilation in their compartment, and the hospital and water-closet were exceedingly good. The married people had the use of the after and main hatches. The entrances were built up like deck houses, and were a very great improvement on the flimsy booby hatches in the British ships which bring immigrants to this port. The berthing arrangements, however, were not so good as in the British ships, but the compartment was clean and sweet. The single men were comfortably located in the fore part of the ship. In fact, all the compartments were very comfortable, and this was to be attributed in a grea*", measure to the unusual height of the 'tween-decks in a vessel of the tonnage of the " Reichstag." The immigrants are a very fine body of people, aud contrast most favourably with recent shipments of cur own countrymen. They all expressed themselves in the highest terms of praise of the surgeon-superintendent and captain, not only to us, but in an address which was published in the local papers. In conclusion, we have to recommend the payment of all gratuities, and have to congratulate Captain Hanschild and Dr. Waterhart upon bringing the " Reichstag " into port in such admirable order, and especially on the fact of their having a lower death rate, so far as we are aware, than any vessel which has as yet arrived in the colony. We have, &c, Alexandeb Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Holliday.

No. 27. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 251.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 27th August, 1874. 1 have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Peeress," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton upon the 23rd July ultimo : — 1^ Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Report of Surgeon-Superintendent. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage.

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You will observe that the Commissioners express their regret that the fact of " tho vessel having been chartered for Timaru, led to the employment of a much inferior class of ship to those which are employed in bringing immigrants to Lyttelton." A consideration of this fact, which does not admit of a doubt, and the circumstances attending tho arrival of this the first ship laid on direct for Timaru, having been obliged by stress of-weather to proceed to Lyttelton, and there tranship her emigrants for their port of destination, thus fulfilling the contract, but practically at a loss to the Government of twenty shillings per adult —the contract price to Lyttelton being £14 10s., and to Timaru £16 10s., whilst twenty shillings per adult was paid by the Company for conveyance of the immigrants to Timaru—induce me to countermand the previous instructions which have been given you as to sending ships direct to Timaru; and I have now to request that you will forward immigrants for that place by ships specially chartered for the purpose, but making Lyttelton the port of arrival. You will take care that such ships are strictly for passengers to Timaru, and that emigrants for no other destination are embarked in them. The contract with the shipping companies is to be for conveyance to Timaru, and tho tickets are to bo issued accordingly. The Government will provide passage by steamers to Timaru, and the immigrants are to understand they will not be disembarked at Lyttelton. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 27. Immigration Commissioners' Report on Ship " Peeress." Lyttelton, 24th July, 1874. The Immigration Commissioners beg to report that the above ship arrived in Lyttelton harbour on the 23rd inst., after a protracted passage of 116 days. The health of the immigrants was good. There had been six deaths and four births during the passage. On inspection the Commissioners found the ship was of an inferior class to recent arrivals, and indifferently adapted for carrying immigrants. The vessel had strained much in bad weather, and the deck, except where under cover of the poop, was very leaky. The cleanliness throughout was indifferent, the 'tween-decks low, badly lighted and ventilated. In the married-people's compartment the Commissioners noted that some parts had been kept much cleaner than others, thereby indicating that the cleanliness had depended more on the immigrants themselves than upon their supervision. As a class, the immigrants appeared very suitable for the wants of the district to which they are consigned, namely, Timaru. Some complaints were made in the married compartment that the children's diet was not issued in accordance with the dietary scale. The surgeon stated in explanation that the eggs, sago, and arrowroot were exhausted early on the passage. The surgeon was requested to furnish a list of the stores sent on board for children, together with a list of any surplus stores sent by the Agent-General. This information will be sent with his report. The cooking apparatus and condenser had worked satisfactorily. The provisions as shown to the Commissioners were on the whole good, but complaints were made as to the quality of some of the flour issued in the early part of the voyage. The Commissioners regret that the fact of the vessel being chartered for Timaru led to the employment of a much inferior class of ship to those which are employed bringing immigrants to Lyttelton. Wm. Donald. JonN F. Rouse. J. E. March.

No. 28. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-General. (No. 253.) Sir, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 28th August, 1874. I have tho honor to forward herewith tho reports of the Immigration Commissioners and the Immigration Officer at Napier upon the ship " Winchester," which arrived upon the 26th ultimo. The reports call for no particular remark, except that the supply of medical comforts appears to have been insufficient; and that although some extra stores were put on board by your officers at . Gravesend, no advice thereof has been sent to this office to enable the surgeon's statements of their expenditure to be checked. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 28. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship "Winchester." Sic,— Napier, August, 1874. I have the honor to inform you that the " Winchester," Captain Arnold, arrived in the Ahuriri roadstead on the evening of the 26th July, all well. There were two deaths on the voyage. It is a source of gratification to be enabled to again report no contagious disease on board. This province has been most fortunate in this respect. 3-D. 3.

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The accommodation in respect of the after compartments of the married people was very unhealthy, lights having to be kept burning in order to enable the people to perform their necessary duties; besides, the ventilation was very bad. The single-men's compartment was also very dark and crowded; the single-girls' was, however, the best ventilated and lighted of any ship which has yet arrived in this port. The immigrants expressed themselves perfectly satisfied with the treatment they had received from the doctor and officers of the ship, also with the provisions supplied to them during the voyage, unless an expression of a want of enough medical comforts for the children, of which sufficient does not seem to have been put on board. The Commissioners desire to express approval (otherwise than mentioned above) of the manner in which the vessel w yas brought into port, and the treatment, &c, received by the immigrants, and this they do after having instituted a strict examination of all details, in accordance with your instructions. I have, &c, G. Tnos. Fannin, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. (for Commissioners).

No. 29. The Hon. J. Vogel to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 257.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 29th August, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship "Eastern Monarch," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 23rd July:— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Julius Vogel.

Enclosure in No. 29. Immigeation Commissionebs' Repoet on Ship "Eastern Monarch." The Commissioners beg to report that this ship arrived in Lyttelton on July the 23rd, after a passage of seventy-six days. The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the voyage. Tho 'tweendeck was lofty, well lighted and ventilated, and all the compartments were exceedingly clean. The provisions and water had been served out in accordance with the dietary scale, and the quality had been good. The cooking apparatus and condenser (one of Chaplin's patents) had worked satisfactorily. Tho hospitals were arranged in accordance with the contract. The medicine chest was examined, and the Commissioners would recommend that liquid extract of ergot should be placed therein instead of powder. The Commissioners recommend payment of all gratuities. Wm. Donald. John F. Rouse. Lyttelton, 24th July, 1874. J. E. Maech.

No. 30. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-General. (No. 258.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, sth September, 1874. I have the honor to forward herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Mario Bahn," which vessel arrived at Port Chalmers on the 25th July : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. 3. Memorandum by the Immigration Officer at Dunedin upon the charter-party with Messrs. P. Henderson and Co. Upon the subject of the charter-party, I referred the papers to His Honor the Superintendent of Otago, who remarks as follows: —" The report of the Commissioners addressed to Deputy Superintendent on Ist August embodies important suggestions, which, if not already communicated to Mr. Auld, will be so communicated on my return to Dunedin, with a view to their being given effect to. I have, &c, Tho Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 30. Immigration Commissioners' Report on Ship " Maire Bahn." Sir, — Port Chalmers, Ist August, 1874. We have the honor to report that the ship " Mario Balm," from Glasgow, with Government immigrants, arrived in port on the 25th July. She brought equal to 3581- statute adults. There were three births and four deaths on the passage, the latter being children of tender age.

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The several compartments being examined, we found them clean and well ventilated by side scuttles and deck ventilators. The fittings were as usual in Glasgow ships, viz. athwart ship and close to the sides. The condenser (Chaplin's) proved effective, and supplied forty gallons of water per hour. The health of the immigrants was good throughout the voyage, there being no serious illness, excepting such as young children are liable to even ashore. The usual questions being asked as to their treatment on board, several of the married people complained that they did not receive their full allowance of flour, potatoes, and children's comforts, and at the same time presented a petition to the Immigration Officer, praying that an inquiry should Be instituted into the said complaints. We would respectfully urge upon Government the desirableness of applying to the ships sailing from Glasgow to this port tho same regulations as to the scale of provisions and comforts for children as those sailing from London, and also that the surgeon should be a servant of the Government, and held responsible to it, instead of being, as in the Glasgow ships, appointed by the owners and charterers, to whom alone he can be held responsible as their servant. We would recommend further, that in any future contract made with Messrs. Patrick Henderson and Co., the charter-party should allow a certain number of lay days for removing the immigrants. We have, &c, Colin Allan. David O'Donnoghue. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. Wm. Thomson.

No. 31. The Hon. E. Eichaedson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 271.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 24th September, 1874. I havo the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Canterbury," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 2nd instant: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, EnwAEn Eiciiaedson, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 31. Immigeation Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship "Canterbury." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the 2nd instant, after a passage of eighty-seven days. Tho health of the immigrants had been very good; three births and two deaths, namely, one adult and one child, had occurred during the passage. All the arrangements on board were very satisfactory, and the compartments exceedingly clean. The provisions had been served out in accordance with the scale; the quality was good, but some few complaints were made as to the manner in which they had been cooked. The distilling apparatus had worked satisfactorily during the passage. The Commissioners were pleased with the class of immigrants introduced by this ship ; they appeared to have been selected with great care. No surplus stores were placed on board as children's diet; no dietary for the matron; no slates or pencils for the children, and the supply of school books was deficient. The immigrants spoke in high terms of the treatment they had received at the hands of the captain, the surgeon-superintendent, and officers of the ship. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent, should he desire it. Wm. Donalh. John F. Bov/se. Lyttelton, 7th September, 1874. J. E. MAEcn.

No. 32. The Hon. E. Eichabdson to the Agent-Genebal. (No. 27G.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 25th September, 1874. I have the honor to forward herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Corona," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 28th ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, EnwAEn Eiciiaedson, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration), The Agent-General for New Zealand, London,

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Enclosure in No. 32. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Corona." Sic,— Port Chalmers, 31st August, 1874. We have the honor to report that the ship " Corona " arrived from London on the 28th instant, with 388j statute adults, Government immigrants, having made a passage from Gravesend of ninetytwo days. There were ten births and eleven deaths since leaving England. On going alongside and asking the usual questions, we found that no disease of an infectious nature broke out on the voyage, and that the general health of all on board was good. On boarding the ship, we found everything in a very satisfactory condition. The several compartments were scrupulously clean, and well ventilated both by side scuttles and deck ventilators. The single women occupied one side of the poop, the opposite side being used for hospitals, issuingroom, and dispensary, with the exception of the small portion occupied by the captain and surgeon. This arrangement appears to us very good, and gave great satisfaction. On mustering the immigrants we asked the usual questions, and found that they were all satisfied with their treatment. Dr. Gordon, the surgeon-superintendent, and Captain Eobcrtson and his officers, appear to have performed their respective duties towards the passengers faithfully and conscientiously. The discipline on board was exceedingly effective, without being harsh. We are satisfied that the provisions of the Passengers Act and the charter-party were strictly fulfilled in evory respect. We recommend that the usual gratuities be paid to the surgeon-superintendent, captain, and his officers. We have, &c, Colin Allan. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. David O'Donnoghije.

No. 33. The Hon. E. Eichaedson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 277.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 25th September, 1874. I have the honor to forward herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " St. Lawrence," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 30th ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of birth and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, Ebwaed Eichaedson, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 33. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " St. Lawrence." TnE Commissioners beg to report the arrival of this ship, after a passage of ninety-nine days from Plymouth. This ship conveyed 412 souls, equal to 345 statute adults. The health of the immigrants had been generally good. One case of small-pox occurred early on the passage, but the disease did not spread. During tho voyage there had been eight deaths amongst the children, principally from diarrhoea. With the exception of the single-women's compartment, the Commissioners are unable to report so favourably as they would wish on the cleanliness of this ship. The provisions had been served out in accordance with the charter-party, and the quality was good. No complaints were made of any kind, the immigrants expressing themselves well pleased with tho treatment they had received. The cooking apparatus and condenser (Normandy's) had worked satisfactorily, distilling 240 gallons in twelve hours. The Commissioners have also to report that the class of immigrants did not appear to them so well selected as those by the " Cathcart." The matron was altogether unfitted for her duties, being aged and very deaf, and in their opinion ought not to have been appointed to the office. The gratuities to the officers are recommended, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent, should he desire it. Wm. DoNALn. John P. Eohse. Lyttelton, 4th September, 1874. . J. E. Maech.

No. 34. The Hon. E. Eichaedson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 278.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 25th September, 1874. I have the honor to forward herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Otago," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 30th ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, EdwAED EICnAEDSON, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

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Enclosure in No. 34. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Otago." Sic, — Port Chalmers, 31st August, 1874. We have the honor to report that the ship "Otago " arrived from London, with 288 statute adults, Government immigrants, on board. Her passage from Gravesend occupied eighty-four days. There were three births and twelve deaths on the voyage, the latter being young children, excepting one adult, who died from consumption. Prom the report handed to us, we found that measles had prevailed in the early part of tho passage, and that most of the deaths wero attributed to this cause and its consequences. The general health of the young and old on arrival was very good. On inspecting the ship, we visited the several compartments, beginning with the single females, which we found both clean, well fitted, and comfortable. The ventilation here, as in other parts of the ship, was by deck ventilators, and, according to the testimony of the surgeon-superintendent, proved quite sufficient. The married people were next visited, and on tho usual questions being put to them unanimously expressed their satisfaction with then- treatment. They stated that the provisions were excellent, and that they received even more than their allowance of water, the condenser (Chaplin's) being capable of supplying 1,200 gallons of water in the twenty-four hours. The single-men's quarters, which usually on inspection are not in such good order as the other compartments, we found on this occasion to be dry, well scraped, and tidy, a result consequent on the firmness of discipline for which Dr. Hanan, tho surgeon, deserves to be complimented. There were no complaints. The surgeonsuperintendent, Captain Leslie, and his officers, appear to us to have bestowed every care and attention in the treatment of the passengers, and we have therefore much pleasure in recommending that the usual gratuities be awarded to them. We have, &c, Colin Allan. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. David O'Donnoghije.

No. 35. The Hon. E. Eichaedson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 279.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 25th September, 1874. I have the honor to forward herewith copies of the following documents relative to tho ship " Cathcart," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 29th ultimo: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, Edwaed Eichaedson, (in the absence of tho Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 35. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Cathcart." TnE Commissioners report the arrival of this ship at Lyttelton on August 29th, after a quick passage of seventy-nine days. The number of souls on board was 481, equal to 399.V statute adults. The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the passage. There have been four births, and five deaths amongst the children. All the compartments were clean, well ventilated, and arranged according to contract. The provisions had been served out regularly, and in accordance with tho dietary scale. The quality was good, and no complaints of any kind wore made. The cooking apparatus and condenser had worked very satisfactorily. The immigrants appeared very well satisfied with the treatment they had received at the hands of the captain, surgeon-superintendent, and officers of the ship. The Commissioners were pleased with the class of immigrants by this ship, and more especially the single women. The matron performed her duties exceedingly well, and the rules and regulations had boon strictly complied with. The usual gratuities are recommended, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent, should he require it. Wm. Donald. John F. Eouse. Lyttelton, 4th September, 1874. J. E. Maech.

John F. Rouse.

No. 36. The Hon. E. Eichaedson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 280.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 25th September, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Euterpe," which arrived at Port Nicholson on the 30th ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, Edwaed Eichaedson, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

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Enclosure in No. 36. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Euterpe." Sic, — Wellington, 7th September, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Euterpe " on the 30th ultimo, with 330 j statute adults, including one stowaway, whose parents were on board. There were two deaths, equal to half an adult, and six births during tho voyage. Early on the 31st we inspected the ship and immigrants, and wero pleased to find tho people so well and contented after their long voyage of 123 days. The single women were berthed partly in the saloon and partly in the 'tween decks ; the entrance to their compartment being the after gangway, near the wheel; this we consider a very great improvement, as it obviates tho necessity of the girls going on the main deck to roach their compartment. The hospital, bath-room, and water-closet were good, and the compartment was clean and well ventilated. The matron seemed to be well suited for her work, and was highly spoken of by the surgeon-superin-tendent and captain. The single men had a comfortable, clean, aud well-lighted compartment forward. Tho married people were in the middle of the vessel. This compartment was also in good order. The hospital was an exceedingly convenient one, under the poop. The only thing we have to condemn in this vessel was the position of the dispensary, with reference to which wo would direct attention to the remarks of the surgeon-superintendent, which are appended hereto. The galley was convenient, and well suited for the requirements of the passengers; but we were informed that the condenser could not make a sufficient quantity of water to enable the passengers to have their daily allowance in full. The captain, therefore, very wisely decided upon calling at Simon's Bay for a supply of water. The immigrants seem to be a fine healthy lot of people, and on being questioned they stated they had no complaints whatever to prefer. In conclusion, we recommend tho payment of all gratuities, and we consider that Captain Phillips and Surgeon-Superintendent Bligh have faithfully performed the duties intrusted to them. We append summary of the voyage by Dr. Bligh, to which we would direct your attention. We have, &c, Alexander Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Hollidat.

No. 37. The Hon. E. Eichaedson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 284.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 25th September, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Carisbrooke Castle," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 2nd instant: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, Edwaed EICnAEDSON, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The A gent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 37. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Carisbrooke Castle." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on tho 2nd instant, after a passage of ninetyfour days from Gravesend. Shortly after leaving, measles broke out on board, and the surgeon is convinced that it was brought on board from the depot. The Commissioners requested a full report from him. During the passage there had been five births and twenty-five deaths; of these eight were infants, fifteen were children of two years and under, one a child aged four, and one a child aged five years. This ship was specially chartered by the Agent-General; the arrangements of the various compartments were excellent, and the light and ventilations all that could be desired. The provisions had been good, served out regularly, and no complaints of any kind were made. The distilling apparatus had worked very satisfactorily. The immigrants spoke highly of the kindness they had received from the captain, surgeon-superintendent, and officers of the ship. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent, should he desire it. Wm. Donald. J. E. Eohse. Lyttelton, September, 1874. J. E. Maech.

No. 38. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to tho Agent-Geneeal. (No. 294.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 12th October, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copy of the Immigration Commissioners' report upon the ship " Parsee," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 4th ultimo. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

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Enclosure in No. 38. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Parsee." Sic, — Immigration Office, Dunedin, 10th September, 1874. The ship " Parsee " arrived from the Clyde on the 4th instant, having made the passage from port to port in eighty-four days. Her immigrants numbered 30G statute adults. Three births and fourteen deaths occurred on the voyage, the latter being chiefly children of tender age. On inspection of the several compartments, we found them well fitted and ventilated, both by side scuttles and deck ventilators. The ship is well adapted for conveying immigrants, being more than ordinarily lofty in her 'tween-decks. She is furnished with one of Chaplin's patent distilling condensers, which supplied sufficient water for all requirements. We think the passengers' galley was scarcely large enough for cooking for so many people, and believe the immigrants had some reason for complaint of its inadequacy to supply their wants. On the usual questions being asked as to their treatment on the voyage, one of the immigrants named Weir presented a document signed by eighty-two of the immigrants, complaining in general terms of the infraction of the Passengers Act, but making no specific charges as to what sections were infringed. The Immigration Officer received the document, and instructed the complainants to specify in writing the articles of the dietary scale of which they were short, and the dates on which they were so served out. This, however, they have as yet failed to produce, from which we infer that they have had no substantial grounds of complaint. The large majority of the immigrants expressed themselves as well satisfied with their treatment. Wo would recommend that a better quality of biscuit should be supplied to the immigrants in future ships from the Clyde, and a baker appointed, as in London ships, to properly utilize the flour. The immigrants appear to be a superior class, and remarkably well adapted to supply the requirements of the province. We have, &c, Colin Allan. David O'Donnoghue. The Under Secretary for Immigration, Wellington. Wm. Thomson.

No. 39. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 295.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 14th October, 1874. Eeferring to Mr. Eichardson's letter of tho 24th ultimo, No. 271, transmitting documents relative to the ship " Canterbury," I beg to draw your attention to the fact of the deficiency in the surplus stores for the children and in the school material, as pointed out in the report of the Immigration Commissioners. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

No. 40. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 300.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 22nd October, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith the following documents relative to the ship " The Tweed," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 4th ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. 3. Correspondence relative to a claim for demurrage made by the owners. The report of the Commissioners is very satisfactory, the ship appears to have been excellently suited for the service, and the surgeon-superintendent and officers energetic and judicious in the discharge of their duties, the result being that the large number of immigrants on board were landed in excellent condition, and the casualties on the voyage limited to fourteen deaths from iufantile diseases. There appears to have been a serious omission in the charter-party of this ship, in that no provision whatever has been made for lay days ; and you will observe from the correspondence enclosed, that a claim has been made on behalf of " The Tweed," which I have referred to His Honor the Superintendent of Otago for settlement, with what result I am not at present informed. I have, <fee, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 40. Immigeation Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship " Tweed." Sic, — Immigration Office, Dunedin, 10th September, 1874. The immigrant ship " The Tweed," a large ship of 1,745 tons, chartered by the Agent-General, arrived from London on the 4th inst. ; she left London with 038 souls, being equal to 520^ statute adults. There were three births and fourteen deaths on the passage, the latter being from infantile diseases, common to nearly all emigrant ships. The ship itself is well adapted for passengers, being lofty in her

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'tween-decks, and well filled and ventilated. The several compartments were exceedingly clean and orderly, which proved conclusively that order and discipline were well carried out by tho surgeonsuperintendent in charge. On asking the usual questions, the immigrants unanimously expressed their satisfaction with the treatment they had received. The Passengers Act and the Eegulations of the Government of New Zealand were fully complied with in every respect. The surgeon-superintendent, Dr. Cunningham, Captain Stuart, and his officers, appear to us to have performed their duties most admirably, and we have pleasure in recommending that the usual gratuities be awarded to them. We have, &c, Colin Allan. David O'Donnoghue. The Under Secretary for Immigration, Wellington. Wm. Thomson.

No. 41. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 301.) Sic, — ' Immigration Office, Wellington, 22nd October, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Oxford," which arrived at Auckland upon the Bth ultimo : — 1. Eeport of the Commissioners and of the Immigration Officer relative to the inspection of the ship and immigrants. 2. Eeport of the Surgeon-Superintendent relative to the stores, fittings, condenser, &c, of the ship. 3. Eeport of the Immigration Commissioners of the result of an inquiry held by them into certain charges brought by Dr. Good against the captain and officers. 4. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. The report of tho Commissioners and of the surgeon-superintendent disclose a state of things by no means satisfactory, as regards the inspection of the stores by your officers, and the noting the condition of the condenser and other apparatus necessary for the use and comfort of the immigrants upon the voyage ; and I would especially direct your attention to the fact stated by tho Commissioners, that no extra supply of medical comforts had been placed on board in charge of tho surgeon, as required by the instruction of my predecessor in office, in his letter No. 239, of the 25th October, 1873. In sending you a copy of the report upon the conduct of the captain and officers of the ship, which was the result of an inquiry held at the instigation of the surgeon-superintendent, I have not thought it necessary to trouble you with tho voluminous evidence taken by the Commissioners, which fully bears out tho conclusions they arrived at, and which I have indorsed to tho extent of refusing to pay the usual gratuities. It is very undesirable that Captain Beaver and the chief officer should again be placed in charge of vessels carrying Government immigrants, and I leave it to yourself to take such measures as are practicable to prevent such a casualty. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 41. Immigration Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Oxford." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 22nd April, 1874. Wo have the honor to report that we made the customary inspection on the Bth instant of the ship " Oxford," ninety days from London, with 3GO.j statute adult immigrants on board, nearly all in good health. Hooping-cough had been prevalent during the latter part of the voyage, and there were still thirteen cases under treatment, but no other infectious disease had at any time shown itself among passengers or crew. The " Oxford " is a ship of good dimensions ; her accommodation for immigrants is above the average, and she came into port in a very creditable condition as respects cleanliness and general good order. No complaints were made by the immigrants when we inspected the ship, but subsequent^, in the course of an inquiry into certain charges preferred against the ship's officers by the surgeon-superintendent, it was brought to our knowledge that there had been partial dissatisfaction with the way in which the immigrants' bread was baked during a part of the voyage. It appears, for a time at least, the daily allowance for each statute adult had been two ounces short. This was owing probably to a defect in the baking. The proper allowance of potatoes was not always served out, in consequence, the captain explained, of inadequate appliances on board for cooking the full amount at once. The provisions generally were of good quality, and abundant in quantity, with the exception of the medical comforts. The supply of wine, beer, and porter ran short at a comparatively early stage of the voyage. A copy of the doctor's report upon the subject of tho provisioning of the ship, addressed to the Immigration Officer, is transmitted herewith. There had been no extra supply of medical comforts placed on board with Dr. Good's knowledge. There was a sufficiency of fresh water, notwithstanding that the condenser appears not to have been in good working order at all times. From information elicited on the inquiry above referred to, we felt it our duty to direct a survey of the condenser to bo made by a competent engineer, ami his report is forwarded herewith. The supply of quick-lime, charcoal, and sand on board was defective. A great deal of inconvenience was experienced from leaky water bottles on the voyage, occasioning damp under the lower berths, and generally proving a source of much needless annoyance to the immigrants.

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It appears to us that a little of tho dissatisfaction arising from these and similar causes might easily bo obviated were fuller opportunity afforded surgeon-superintendents, before the sailing of the vessel, than appears to be the case at present, for accurately inspecting the stores on board and noting the condition of the several apparatus needful for the use and comfort of the passengers on the voyage. We recommend payment of Dr. Good's gratuity and head money, leaving the question of the other gratuities, in connection with our report upon the complaint of the surgeon-superintendent against the ship's officers, to be dealt with as the Government may determine. We have, &c. H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Buegess.

No. 42. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 310.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 23rd October, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Strathnaver," which arrived in Port Nicholson upon tho Ist ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Papers relating to an inquiry into the conduct of tho Surgeon-Superintendent. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. The report of the Commissioners is upon the whole satisfactory, and calls for no special remark ; but you will observe the Immigration Officer makes a special report relative to the conduct of the surgeon-superintendent. I thought it right to give that gentleman an opportunity of defending himself, and accordingly requested the Under Secretary of the department and Mr. Crawford, E.M., to inquire privately into the matter, and their report was to the effect that no irregularity had been proved against him during the limits of his engagement. Under these circumstances I did not feel justified in withholding payment of his gratuity; but at the same time I caused him to be informed that the matter would be reported to you, and that it was not considered advisable that he should again come out in charge of emigrants. I have, &c., The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 42. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Strathnaver." Sic, — Wellington, 9th September, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Strathnaver " on the Ist instant, with 322 statute adults ; four births and six deaths —equal to one statute adult—having occurred during the voyage. On mustering the people, we found them to be healthy and contented, and they had no complaints whatever to prefer. The single women were berthed partly in the saloon and partly in the 'tween-decks; the entrance to the compartment being from tho poop, by the stern gangway to the saloon. The compartment was well ventilated ; but it would have been better had there been more light in the portion of it which was in the 'tween-decks. The hospital, which was in the stern cabin, was exceedingly good, as also were the bath-room and closet. The single-men's compartment was very good and clean, well lighted and ventilated; the hospital was partly on deck and partly below. Tho married compartment was well ventilated, but rather dark. The bunks were in blocks, but close to the side of the ship. It would have been better if there had been a narrow alley-way for cleansing purposes. The people had the use of two hatchways, and the compartment was exceedingly clean. The hospital and dispensary were badly situated under the main hatch; the dispensary was so dark that a light had to be kept burning in the day-time. The galley was roomy and convenient, and the condenser efficient. We are at a loss to understand how it is that, after the repeated remonstrances which have been made against emigrant vessels carrying cabin passengers, the Agent-General should have allowed, in a ship specially chartered by the New Zealand Government, a single man to come out as a cabin passenger. The "Strathnaver" came into port in exceedingly good order, and the passengers stated they were satisfied with the treatment they had received. Before, however, we recommend the payment of the gratuities, other than those due to the constables, &c, we would refer your Honor to the report by the Immigration Officer, which is forwarded herewith. We must also strongly condemn the course pursued by the surgeon-superintendent, of writing to the newspapers immediately upon his arrival in praise of the captain, officers, cabin passengers, and immigrants on board the " Strathnaver." Having been in the colony before in charge of immigrants, he was well aware that his reports should be sent through us to the Government; and to one knowing the position a surgeon holds with regard to immigrants uuder his charge, it can be readily conceived how easy it is to stop complaints by his giving them to understand that it is in his power to prevent their succeeding in a new country, if he can write them down in the public papers upon arrival. The surgeon has not furnished us with the usual summary of the voyage. We have, &c, John* Holliday. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. H. J. H. Eliott. 4—D. 3.

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No. 43. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 312.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 23rd October, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Merope," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 27th ultimo :— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 43. Immigeation Commissioners' Eeport on Ship " Merope." The Commissioners visited ship " Merope," 27th September, 1874, ninety-one days from Plymouth. The immigrants were in good health, and expressed themselves perfectly satisfied with all arrangements. The rations were very good, regularly supplied, and well cooked. The children's dietary was ample and of good quality. Two deaths of infants and six births occurred during the passage. The condenser had proved faulty during the voyage, but the engineer had been able to repair it, so that the supply of water was not suspended ; the plumbing work was good. The matron appointed in England proved incapable, and the master and surgeon had selected another person, who performed her duties satisfactorily. The single men were for the most part well-selected agricultural labourers from the West of England; the single women also appeared very suitable. The married men, chiefly from the West of England also, were of a good class; but the proportion of mechanics was again too large. Wm. Donald. John P. Eouse. Lyttelton, 29th September, 1874. J. E. Maech.

No. 44. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 327.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th November, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copy of the Commissioners' report upon the ship "Gutenberg," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton upon the 25th October. Tour attention is directed to the very indecent manner in which the married people were berthed in this vessel. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 44. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Gutenberg." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the 25th October, after a passage of 112 days from Hamburg. The health of the immigrants had been good; two births and one death (an infant) had occurred during the passage. The general cleanliness of the ship was very fair. The Commissioners cannot approve of the manner the married people were berthed, the bunks being made to hold two families, without any division board between them. They feel bound to express a like objection to the row of loopholes, which existed for ventilation, between the single and married people's compartments. The provisions were served out in accordance with contract, and the quality was fair. The distilling apparatus had worked satisfactorily during the passage. The Commissioners recommend full gratuities to all the officers, with the exception of the purser, against whom several complaints were made and substantiated. Wm. Donald. John P. Eouse. Lyttelton, 28th October, 1874. J. E. March.

No. 45. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 328.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th November, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copy of the Commissioners' report upon the ship " Duke of Edinburgh," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton upon the Ist instant. Tou will be pleased to learn that the Commissioners report tho class of immigrants as highly satisfactory, and well suited to the requirements of the province. Tour attention is directed to the fact that no extra stores of any kind were placed on board for the children. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

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Enclosure in No. 45. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Duke of Edinburgh." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the Ist instant, after a passage of 105 days. The health of the immigrants had been good; during the passage there had been six births and five deaths, namely, two children and three infants, two of these being new-born. All the compartments were scrupulously clean, and the arrangements very satisfactory. The class of immigrants was highly satisfactory as to physique, and appeared in every way suitable to the requirements of the province. The provisions had been served out in accordance with the dietary scale, and the quality was very good. The Commissioners were informed, however, that no extra stores of any kind had been placed on board for children. The distilling and cooking apparatus had worked satisfactorily during the passage. The matron, Miss Perry, performed her duties very efficiently, and was well suited for the position in which she was placed. The immigrants throughout spoke very highly of the kind treatment they had received from the surgeon-superintendent, captain, and officers of the ship. The Commissioners recommend the payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent, should he desire it. Wm. Donald. John E. Rouse. Lyttelton, 3rd November, 1874. J. E. Maech.

No. 46. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 329.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th November, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Zealandia," which arrived at Auckland upon the 15th. October:— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, Ac, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 46. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Zealandia." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 20th October, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the " Zealandia" late on the evening of the 15th instant, after an average passage of ninety-six days from London. On the following morning we made the customary inspection of the ship and passengers, and found everything in a reasonably satisfactory condition. The " Zealandia " brings 252 Government immigrants, equal to 204 statute adults, all of whom have arrived in good health, with the exception of two female invalids recently confined. The immigrants' compartments are airy and commodious, and the condition of the ship generally at the time of inspection was such as to reflect credit upon the officers and all others concerned. No infectious disease had been known on board throughout the voyage, and no complaints were made from any quarters, except in one or two instances, which were of so trivial a character as not to call for any special notice. We examined the arrangements in the bath-room, and found them satisfactory. The provisions were of good quality, and the supply abundant. The stock of medical comforts was equal to actual requirements as respects the duration of the voyage ; but in the case of beer and wine, and one or two other items of less moment, the supply had just been expended as the ship arrived in port, and there was no extra store on board at the disposal of the surgeon-superintendent. A more liberal supply of medical comforts would, we think, be beneficial as respects the general health of the immigrants, particularly the women and children, and would be the means in many instances of preventing the spread, if not also the initiation, of some diseases among the latter, which are frequently induced by defective nourishment only. There was a good supply of fresh water on board the " Zealandia," and the condenser appears to have worked satisfactorily. There was a complaint again in this instance of the quantity of sand put on board for drying the decks being quite inadequate to the requirements of the voyage. The 'tween-decks were consequently frequently in a damp and uncomfortable condition much longer than was safe for the health of the passengers. This ground of complaint we doubt not will be promptly remedied when the matter has been fairly represented in the proper quarter. We recommend payment of the customary gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent, the captain, chief mate, and the purser of the ship. We have, &c, H. Ellis. Chaeles P. Goldsbeo. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Buegess.

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No. 47. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 330.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th November, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relativo to the ship " Invercargill," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 15th October ultimo: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand. London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 47. Immigration Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Invercargill." Sic,— Port Chalmers, 15th October, 1874. We have the honor to report for your information that the ship " Invercargill," 1250 tons, Captain Tilly, arrived in port this morning from Glasgow, having on board 456 souls, passengers; of these, 396 souls, equal to 332J statute adults, were assisted by the Government. Four births and six deaths took place on the voyage. Having inspected the several compartments of the vessel, we found them fitted in the usual manner of those arriving from Glasgow, tho berths being close to the side of the ship, and not in blocks as in those from London. The single women were berthed in front of the saloon cabin and lower passenger deck, which was well fitted, lighted, and ventilated. The married people were in the main part of the vessel, and their compartment was also well fitted and ventilated, but, from the large number of children, appeared rather crowded. The weather being very wet between decks, it was very unfavourable for judging as to cleanliness, but from what we saw we have every reason to believe that this important duty had been attended to. The galley was commodious, and had done its duty well. The condensing apparatus (Chaplin's) was in good order, and reported to have condensed from eight to nine hundred gallons per day. The passengers in each compartment, on being questioned, stated that their provisions and water were served out according to the dietary scale, and that they were of good quality ; the only complaint being that at one time the water was rather muddy, and that the deck had been leaky, which was speedily remedied. Measles had appeared in the early part of the voyage, and one case of typhoid fever a few days since, being the only one on board, all the rest being well. We consider the state of the vessel, treatment of the passengers, and provisions, to have been very satisfactory. We have, &c, Colin Allan. John Deysdale, M.D. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. Wm. Thomson.

No. 48. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 331.) Sic,— Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th November, 1874. I have tho honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Jessie Eeadman," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 26th October ultimo :— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 48. Immigration Commissioners' Eepoet on Ship "Jessie Eeadman." Sic,— Port Chalmers, 28th October, 1874. We have the honor to report that the ship " Jessie Eeadman " arrived in port from London on the 26th instant, having made a passage of eighty-seven days from Gravesend. She landed 319 souls, equal to 267J statute adults. Three births and eight deaths occurred on the passage, the latter being all children, who died from diseases incident to childhood. The usual inspection having been made, we found tho single-women's compartment occupied by thirty-nine females, under the charge of Miss Wagstaff, matron. The apartment appeared very clean, will fitted, and ventilated through the deck by two ventilators and hatchway. Tho females expressed themselves as well satisfied, and had no complaints to make. The married-people's compartment was occupied by fifty-eight married couples and their families. This compartment was fitted on the block system, and appeared clean and well ventilated. The immigrants had no complaints to make. The single-men's compartment was occupied by seventy-one single men. We found it in good order, and well kept and ventilated. There were no complaints. The galley was sufficient for its requirements, and the condenser (Chaplin's) provided COO gallons of water per day. We feel satisfied that the provisions of the Passengers Act were fully complied with, and that Dr. Gilmore, surgeon-superintendent, Captain Mitchell, and his officers, performed their respective duties faithfully and efficiently. We have, &c, Colin Allan. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. John Deysdale, M.D.

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No. 49. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 336.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 18th November, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Chile," which arrived at Nelson upon the 26th October ultimo :— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. You will be pleased to learn that the Commissioners report favourably of the class of immigrants and their conduct during the voyage. I have again to direct attention to the remarks respecting the dispensary. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 49. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Chile." Sic, — Nelson, 2nd November, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival, on Monday, the 26th October, of the ship " Chile," James Aitchaison, master, ninety-six days out from Gravesend, having on board 220 passengers, equal to 180£ statute adults. One birth and four deaths occurred on the passage. Of the latter, one was caused by exhaustion from sea sickness and pregnancy; the others, children, from convulsions and bronchitis. There was no sickness on board, the health of the passengers and crew having been generally good during the whole voyage. Every individual was questioned. With one exception, all expressed themselves satisfied with the quantity and quality of their rations, also with the kindness and attention they had received. The one complaint made was by Michael Ahem, who stated that his wife, who had died, had been neglected by the doctor. We made particular inquiry into the matter, by examining separately three married women who had been in attendance, and feel convinced, from the manner in which the statements were made, that the complaint was groundless. The poor woman seems to have been soon prostrated by sea sickness, complicated by the sickness of pregnancy and other ailments, and died from exhaustion after miscarriage. The passengers state that the doctor was assiduous in his attention to her. Ahem has declined to prosecute his complaint. The various compartments were clean and tolerably well ventilated ; the ship altogether dry. Dispensary small, and ill adapted as a place for compounding. The surgeon felt the need of the ready method of dispensing by means of coated pills. The condenser was in good order, and represented to have worked well all the voyage. The immigrants themselves appear to be well selected ; they are healthy. They have shown a readiness to carry out the hygienic rules that have been strictly enforced by the surgeon-superintendent. We have pleasure in recommending all the officers for the usual gratuities. We have, &c, Leonabd Booe. Jas. S. Cross. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. C. Elliott.

No. 50. The Hon. 11. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 343.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 19th November, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Cartvale," which arrived in Port Nicholson upon the 11th October ultimo :— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 9 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. 1. You will observe that owing to the large number of deaths upon the voyage, and the great amount of sickness, especially amongst the children, this vessel was placed in quarantine, but released after a few days' detention. The Commissioners remark upon the dirty state in which they found the various compartments occupied by the immigrants, which they ascribe in some measure to the inexperience on the part of the surgeon and captain, neither of whom had ever before had charge of immigrants. They attribute a great deal of the sickness which occurred on the voyage to a water-way or gutter in the 'tween-decks, which could not bo got at for the purpose of being cleared out, and which was found, when the fittings were removed, to be actually teeming with filth. The officer of your department whose duty it is to inspect and pass the vessels should have exercised sufficient prevision to be aware that persons unaccustomed to the sea, and ignorant of the possible results of the accumulation of foetid matter upon the atmosphere of the 'tween-decks, would be certain to save themselves trouble by making use, as they did, of this water-way and of the adjacent spaces between the iron ribs of the ship as a receptacle for anything in the way of waste food, &c, which it was inconvenient to carry on deck and throw overboard. The water-ways might easily have been planked over, or in some way rendered inaccessible to the passengers. As my letter No. 321, of 29th ultimo, transmitted to you per telegraph to Auckland for the last San Francisco mail, was written with the full knowledge of the facts set forth in the report of the Commissioners, and the instructions given therein were with the view of endeavouring to prevent in

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future so great a mortality amongst the children on board immigrant ships through insufficient and improper dietary, I will not now refer to the several matters detailed in the documents forwarded, but I desire especially to call your attention to them; and I trust that by this time arrangements have been made to prevent the possibility of the recurrence of such irregularities and deficiencies as are complained of therein. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 50. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Cartvale." Sic— Wellington, 29th October, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Cartvale " on the 11th instant, with 333 statute adults, nineteen deaths having occurred during the voyage, and four during the lay days in quarantine, in all equal to seven and a half statute adults. As a great amount of sickness had prevailed amongst the children during the voyage, and many of them being in a weakly state from the effects of diphtheria, measles, &c, we deemed it prudent to send the ship and people to quarantine. As we were given to understand that the 'tween-decks of the " Cartvale " were in a very dirty state, we determined to inspect them for ourselves after the people were landed and before the fittings were removed, and we regret to state that our worst anticipations Were realized. She was indeed in a filthy condition, and the stench was most abominable. We attributed the cause in a great measure to a water-way in the 'tween-decks, which formed a receptacle for all the filth of the passengers, without allowing it to go overboard, as in the case of the water-way on the upper deck. The grating between the skin of the ship and the bunks was also made a place of deposit by the immigrants for rubbish and filth of all descriptions ; and as there was no alley-way round the bunks, as we have over and over again pointed out as necessary, it was impossible to get at the places to clean them out. We are surprised that any person having a knowledge of immigrants and their general ignorance concerning all matters relating to the sea, should have allowed the " Cartvale" to take immigrants on board with every inducement held out to them to deposit their slops and filth in the 'tween-decks, and thus save themselves the trouble of going on the upper deck at night or in bad weather. No amount of vigilance on the part of the captain, officers, and surgeon of the ship could prevent this. Another cause of the dirty state of the 'tween-decks was the exceedingly short allowance of sand, the whole supply having been exhausted after the vessel had been about three weeks at sea. The immigrants' scrapers also were of a very flimsy description, doubling right up the first time they were used. The single women were berthed under the poop, with their bunks in blocks. The closet and bathroom were very dark and dirty, and the stench was almost unbearable. The surgeon informed us he had often to leave his dispensary owing to the effluvium from these places. (See extract from his journal.) The single women had half the after hatch for their use, and although the compartment was light and well ventilated, it was not nearly so clean as it should have been. The married people were located forward of the single-women's compartment, they having half the after hatch and the main hatch for their use. It was light and well ventilated. Tho bunks were in blocks, but the compartment was very dirty. This, as we have before stated, was attributed to the water-way, the want of sand, and the absence of alley-ways. The single men were located under the fore hatch. This compartment was not nearly as clean as it should have been, but owing to the slope of the decks the water in the water-way found its way into the married compartment and aft. To summarize, we may say without exaggeration that the " Cartvale" is one of the finest and best ventilated ships which have come into this harbour, but at the same time she was the dirtiest we have inspected. We append extracts from the diary of the surgeon-superintendent, and would direct attention to his remarks with reference to the single-women's closet, the hospitals, the dietary and medical comfort scale, the supply of sand, &c, and especially to the fact that many of the articles and small stores required by Schedule A of the contract were not supplied at all. The single-men-and-women portion of the immigrants are fine healthy people, but many of the married people and children are not of a luitable class physically speaking, they being weak and undersized. In fact it seems not an uncommon thing for this class of immigrants to take advantage of free immigration to this colony in order to have the benefit of a sea voyage and change of climate, in hopes that their health may be improved. The surgeon and captain have both complained that the cabin stores were very niggardly supplied, and some articles altogether omitted. On being questioned, the immigrants stated that they had no complaints to make, and they all seemed well satisfied with the voyage. So soon as the ship was cleaned out and painted in the 'tween-decks she was admitted to pratique; so also were the immigrants, after their bedding and clothing had been disinfected by heat and washed. In conclusion, we recommend the payment of all gratuities, as we consider that both the captain and surgeon did their best for the immigrants, although neither of them had any experience. We would point out that it is undesirable to send both captain and surgeon in one ship without any experience of the method of treating immigrants, as, no matter how skilled each of them may be in his own profession, there are matters of detail in dealing with immigrants which only suggest themselves to men who have sailed with them before. I have, &c, Alex. Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Holliday.

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No. 51. (No. 344.) The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 19th November, 1874. I have the honor to transmit the following documents relative to the ship " The Douglas," which arrived in Port Nicholson upon the 22nd ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Correspondence between the Immigration Office and Surgeon-Superintendent relative to the "Feilding" immigrants. 4. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. 1. The unusually large number of deaths on board this ship and the " Cartvale" enforces the consideration that the frequently repeated instructions of my predecessor, as to the necessity of a proper medical inspection of the emigrants before embarkation, have not been attended to. The perusal of Dr. Purcell's report leaves little doubt that "The Douglas" left England with the seeds of infection on board, and that there were cases of organic disease which even a cursory examination must have detected. 2. You will observe that the Commissioners again call attention to the inconvenience and trouble caused by passengers other than Government immigrants being carried in ships chartered for the conveyance of the latter. I desire that you will, subject to Mr. Vogel's approval, stipulate in all future charter-parties that the whole passenger accommodation of ships should be at the disposal of the Government. Many advantages will result from such an arrangement. The hospitals can then be under the poop, and the other annoyances which have frequently resulted from the presence on board of persons not subject to the control of the surgeon-superintendent will be avoided. 3. It is unnecessary that I should particularly remark upon the other points raised in the enclosed reports. These are ably written, and speak for themselves, and I trust will receive every consideration at your hands. Probably, also, by this time many of the defects and omissions complained of will have been rectified in accordance with instructions given to you in former letters. 4. I forward copies of correspondence between the Immigration Officer and the surgeon-superin-tendent of the ship, in order that you may be officially informed of the unsatisfactory physical character of the immigrants sent out by the Colonist's Aid Society. As these immigrants were approved by you, I have to request that an inquiry be made into the several cases specially cited by Dr. Purcell, in order that it may be ascertained who is responsible for shipping so undesirable a class of persons. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 51. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Douglas." Sic,— Wellington, 10th November, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " The Douglas " on the night of tho 22nd ultimo, with 362 adults. Thirty-three deaths, equal to seven and a half statute adults, occurred on the voyage and during the lay days in quarantine, and two deaths, equal to one and a half statute adults, after the expiration of the lay days in quarantine. As the health of the passengers was reported generally bad, measles, hooping-cough, and other diseases having prevailed, we had no alternative but to send the vessel and her passengers to quarantine, where she was at once towed by the Government steamer " Luna." Having given the captain and surgeon-superintendent instructions to land all the immigrants, have their luggage disinfected, and the 'tween-decks of the ship thoroughly cleaned out and painted, we inspected the immigrants on the 26th October, and were pleased to find the single men and women a fine healthy body of people; but we regret we cannot say so much for the married people, many of whom were quite unfit to undertake the sea voyage, much less to be of any benefit to the colony, even though they succeeded in reaching their destination. On the 27th we inspected the ship, and finding that our instructions as to cleaning and painting had been carried out, we at once admitted her to pratique. We have on a previous occasion inspected this fine vessel, and reported that she was in every way suited for the immigration service of this colony. It is, therefore, needless for us again to enumerate the advantages she possesses for lighting and ventilating the 'tween-decks; the single women, married compartment, and single men were berthed as usual in immigrant ships; but there was one alteration with regard to tho single women which we think was a judicious one, namely, the entrance to their compartment being direct from the poop, which prevented them having any excuse for going on the main deck. We regret to say that there were no alley-ways in the vessel, as on the previous voyage, and it will be seen from the surgeon's remarks herewith, that he comments upon this, saying that the " arrangements of the berths in the 'tween-decks were radically bad." We append a summary of the voyage by Dr. Purcell, and we would direct especial attention to every one of his suggestions, which are of a practical nature, he having had a large experience in emigration. It will be seen that he distinctly states how the measles and hooping-cough were brought on board the vessel, and that the medical inspection was of the same cursory nature, as it was when emigration to this colony first commenced. In fact, from his remarks respecting the hospital accommodation and its position, the position of the surgery, flimsy hatches, want of charcoal and sand, and deficiency of certain medicines, we can only imagine that no experience has been gained in emigration matters, notwithstanding that some thousands of people have been sent to the colony during the last two years. A perusal of the printed papers during the period named will show that over and over again have the very same deficiencies and bad arrangements been complained of. Another matter which has been brought under our notice was, the bad stowage of the cargo, a quantity of railway iron being placed in the bottom of the hold, which caused her to roll very much, which greatly incon-

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venienced the passengers, and especially the invalids. Again we have to complain of the practice of allowing private passengers in emigrant ships, for not only is the space they occupy under the poop urgently required for hospitals, dispensary, &c, but their conduct is frequently a great annoyance to the captain and surgeon-superintendent, and in the case of " The Douglas " this was so with the second-class passengers. There was also a great deal of dissatisfaction amongst the single men when eleven of them found, after paying Messrs. Shaw, Savill, and Co. full passages, that they might, by applying to the Agent-General, have come out free. In conclusion, we have very great pleasure in recommending the payment of all gratuities, and consider that Captain Wilson and Surgeon-Superintendent Purcell are deserving of the highest praise for the manner in which they struggled against almost overwhelming difficulties, caused by the crowding together of a number of weak and badly-constitutioned families, the effect of which can best be understood by the following remark by Dr. Purcell: —" The health of the immigrants was bad, and at one time the 'tween-decks could only be compared to a floating hospital." The Eev. Mr. Eowe also deserves praise for his exertions on behalf of the immigrants, both during the voyage and since their arrival here. We have, &c, Alexandeb Johnston, M.D. H J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Hollidat.

No. 52. Tho Hon. 11. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 353.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th December, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship "Auckland," which arrived in Port Chalmers upon the 21st ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. The only point in the report to which I have to direct your attention is the inadequacy of the galley accommodation. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 52. Immigeation Commissioneb's Eepoet on Ship " Auckland." Sic,— Port Chalmers, 23rd November 1874. We have the honor to report that the ship "Auckland" arrived in port from the Clyde on Saturday, the 21st instant, having made a passage of eighty-five days. She brought to the province 357 souls, equal to 304 statute adults, Government immigrants, besides a number of paying'passengers. The immigrants arrived in port in excellent health, and appear a superior class, and most suitable for supplying the wants of the province^ the majority being agricultural labourers, selected by Mr. James Adam, the agent sent to Britain by the Provincial Government. There were four births and four deaths during the voyage, the latter being infants. Having minutely inspected the ship, we found the several compartments well fitted and unusually clean, and well ventilated by side scuttles and deck ventilators. The condenser (Chaplin's) proved equal to its demands. We would suggest that the galley should be larger in future ships carrying so many immigrants as the "Auckland" had on board. Two of the immigrants made complaints, but on investigation they were found to be frivolous and unfounded. We are satisfied that the provisions of tho Passengers Act were faithfully fulfilled, and that Captain Stevens and his officers, as well as the surgeon, Dr. Allan, performed their respective duties very efficiently. We have, &c, Colin Allan. John Deysdale, M.D. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. Wm. Thomson.

No. 53. The Hon. 11. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 358.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 17th December 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to tho " Star of India," which ship arrived in Port Nicholson upon the 10th of November last: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. You will be pleased to learn that the Commissioners have reported favourably upon this vessel and the immigrants she brought. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

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Enclosure in No. 53. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Star of India." Sic,— Wellington, 19th November, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Star of India " on the 10th inst., with 294 J statute adults ; six deaths, equal to two adults, having occurred during the voyage. Two of these deaths were caused by a man named Salter jumping overboard with his child on the night of the 14th September. This circumstance is fully detailed in the official log of the ship. We inspected the vessel and immigrants, and found everything in a very satisfactory condition, and the immigrants as a whole a good lot of people; the compartments were fitted as usual, and we again draw attention to the advantage of alley-ways, which were not in this vessel. The whole of the 'tween-decks] were well lighted and ventilated, and the immigrants expressed themselves as well satisfied with the voyage. The entrance to the single-girls' compartment should have been direct from the poop. This could have been easily arranged, as there was a convenient skylight through which the ladder could easily have been taken. All the hospitals, matron's cabin, and bath-room were particularly good, being well ventilated and convenient in every way. The dispensary, however, was inconveniently placed under the main hatch, and was badly lighted. In our opinion, the dispensary and hospitals should always be on deck. The galley and condenser were good. Again we bring under notice the great want of sand and charcoal, also the inferior character of the water tins. In conclusion we append a short report from the surgeon-superintendent, and recommend the payment of all gratuities. Captain Holloway and Dr. Wilson seem to have worked very cordially together, and earned the goodwill of all the immigrants under their charge. We have, &c, Alex. Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Hollidat.

No. 54. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 364.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 18th December, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Ocean Mail," which vessel arrived upon the 7th ultimo at Nelson : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. You will be pleased to read that the Commissioners report so favourably of the immigrants, and the arrangements made by the surgeon-superintendent, captain, and officers for their health and comfort during the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 54. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Ocean Mail." Sic, — Nelson, 3rd December, 1874. The ship " Ocean Mail," 1,032 tons, arrived here on Saturday, the 7th of November, after a favourable voyage of seventy-eight days. She brought up in the outer anchorage, where we visited her. Having little cargo for this port, Captain Watson would not allow his ship to enter the harbour through fear of losing his crew before he reached the Bluff, his port of destination. The immigrants (a remarkably fine body) and their luggage were landed by means of a steamer on Monday morning. Although carrying 332 souls, there had been only three deaths on the passage, and these were infants. All the arrangements on board for insuring health and comfort were highly satisfactory, the vessel's great height between decks being an important advantage. There were no complaints except from a few married women, principally from towns, who disapproved of biscuits for their children, and who would gladly have exchanged some of these for flour. The biscuits on examination proved perfectly sound and good. There will always be a difficulty in meeting the wants of young children in an emigrant ship where the food must necessarily be different to what they have been accustomed, and we believe a partial exchange of biscuit for flour might be made for children with advantage. There is another subject regarding the health of the immigrants by the " Ocean Mail " which should be noticed. A considerable number were from Shetland, and many of these suffered much from the voyage, and were landed in a debilitated state. Previous hard living in an inclement climate had not made them indifferent to the confinement and heated atmosphere of an emigrant ship. Their food, while in most respects better than they had been accustomed to, was very different. Immigrants who have been in the habit of using oatmeal as a staple article of food would be better for a liberal supply of it while at sea, at the expense of other articles of the regulation dietary. It is worth remarking that among the Shetlanders, were an old couple, Benjamin and Barbara Courts, who emigrated with their children; the husband seventy-nine and the wife seventy years of age ; probably the oldest couple who ever left England in an immigrant ship. Both landed in excellent health, the husband stronger than when he went on board. 5—D. 3.

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The preserved carrots and onions placed on board, of which a considerable quantity remained, wore not greatly relished by the immigrants. Testimony to the attentions and kindness received from Dr. Prood and the officers of the ship was general, and we recommend that the customary gratuities may be paid. We have, &c, Leonaed Booe. C. Elliott. Tho Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. Jas. S. Ceoss.

No. 55. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 365.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 18th December, 1874 I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Waitangi," which vessel arrived at Auckland upon the 20th ultimo: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. Tou will be pleased to learn that the vessel came into port in a very satisfactory condition, and that the immigrants would appear to have been a suitable class, and to have obtained immediate employment. I have, &c, Tho Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A, Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 55. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Waitangi." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, sth December, 1874. We have the honor to report tho arrival of the "Waitangi " on the 20th ultimo, 111 days from London, with 398 Government immigrants. The inspection of the ship and passengers took place immediately, with satisfactory results. We found the ship in a cleanly and healthy condition. Eleven deaths, chiefly of children from six months to three years of age, had occurred during the voyage. The diseases of which so many children died were croup, diarrhoea, measles, and bronchitis. No infectious disease was known among the immigrants since leaving London. With a single exception of a trivial character, all expressed themselves well satisfied with their treatment upon the voyage. The " Waitangi's " accommodation for steerage passengers is much above the average. The provisions of all kinds were abundant and of excellent quality; the supply of fresh water, also, was equal to all requirements. A single female, named M C , twenty-four years of age, was reported by the surgeonsuperintendent to be of unsound mind. She has since been sent to the Provincial Lunatic Asylum. Dr. Stewart states that this person presented no symptoms of insanity until the twenty-fourth day after leaving England. The general health of the passengers at the time of arrival was good. We recommend payment to the surgeon and ship's officers of the usual gratuities. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. Tho Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Buegess.

No. 56. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 368.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 18th December, 1874. I have the honor to transmit copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Helen Denny," which vessel arrived at Napier upon the 22nd October last: — 1. Immigration Officer's report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. 4. Correspondence between the Immigration Office and tho Surgeon-Superintendent, relative to the manner in which his books were kept. I have no special remark to make upon the above document, except that I desire that Dr. Pratt may not again be employed as surgeon-superintendent of an emigrant ship despatched by the New Zealand Government. I have, <fee, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

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Enclosure in No. 56. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Helen Denny." Sic, — Immigration Commissioners' Office, Napier, 2Gth November, 1874. I have the honor to inform you that the " Helen Denny," Captain W. Euth, arrived in the roadstead on Thursday, 22nd October. There were seven births, and nine deaths, generally from diarrhoea. The passengers without exception expressed themselves satisfied with the treatment they had received on board. I have, &c, G. Thos. Fannin, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. ([pro Commissioners.)

No. 57. (No. 374.) The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 22nd December, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relativo to the " Soukar," which vessel arrived at Port Nicholson upon the 2nd ultimo:— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. Many of the suggestions of the surgeon-superintendent have already been anticipated in the instructions which have been sent to yoa. I have, &c, H. A. Atkinson. The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 57. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Soukar." Sic, — Wellington, 15th December, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the " Soukar " on the 2nd instant, with 326^ statute adults on board; five deaths, equal to two adults, occurred during the voyage. On inspecting the immigrants and vessel, we were pleased to find everything in a satisfactory condition. The immigrants were located in the usual manner; all having their berths in blocks, with alley-ways right round. These alley-ways were a great convenience, as they enabled the water-way which was in the 'tween-decks (as in " Cartvale ") to be kept clean and sweet, and prevented the berths being placed right over it, as in that ship. All the compartments had abundance of light and ventilation, and the fittings, ladders, &c, were particularly good, being in fact the best we have yet seen in any ship which has come to this port. The hospitals were well placed, roomy, and well ventilated. The dispensary was under the main hatch, but it would have been better under the poop. The galley and condenser were good. All the passengers expressed themselves well satisfied, but, as we have stated in other reports, inconvenience and annoyance was caused by the private passengers. We append a report by the surgeon-superintendent, in which will be found several practical suggestions, one of the most important of which is, that the allowance of sand and charcoal should be increased. In conclusion, we beg to recommend the payment of all gratuities. Surgeon-Superintendent Cartwright and Captain Adams seem to have performed their duties satisfactorily, and to have gained the goodwill of all the passengers. We have, &c, Alex. Johnston, M.D. John Holliday. • His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. H. J. H. Eliott.

No. 58. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 375.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 22nd December, 1874. Eeferring to my letter of the 18th ultimo, No. 335, I herewith transmit copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Hydaspes," recently placed in quarantine at Auckland:— 1. Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Eemarks of the Surgeon-Superintendent. Tho report of the Commissioners calls for no special remark, but I would direct your attention to the observations of the surgeon-superintendent respecting the medical inspection of the emigrants at the port of London, and to his suggestions re the children's dietary, in which you will observe that he entirely coincides with the desirability of the alterations which you have been already instructed to carry out. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

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Enclosure in No. 58. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Hydaspes." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 28th November, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the " Hydaspes " on the 6th instant, with 340 Government immigrants on board, eighty-seven days from London. On arriving alongside and putting the customary questions before proceeding to inspect the ship, it was discovered that scarlatina had been among the passengers, and that six deaths had occurred from this cause, all of children under four years of age; there were also six deaths from diseases not infectious, chiefly infants or very young children, with one exception, that of a girl of fifteen years, named Mary Long, who died of brain fever. Two births occurred upon the voyage. The last case of scarlatina having occurred thirteen days before the ship's arrival in port, the Health Officer deemed it prudent to send the "Hydaspes" into quarantine, and the order to this effect was given accordingly. After undergoing the necessary cleansing, the vessel was admitted to pratique on the 14th instant, when the customary inspection took place. We found everything on board in a very satisfactory condition; the 'tween-deck accommodation is of a superior order, and the supplies of all kinds provided for the use of the immigrants on the voyage we found to be of the best of their kind. The duties of the ship's officers, including the surgeonsuperintendent, appear to have been very satisfactorily performed throughout, and we have much pleasure, therefore, in recommending the payment of the usual gratuities. We have, &c., H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. I. J. Buegess.

No. 59. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 377.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 22nd December, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Howrah," which vessel arrived in Port Nicholson upon the 30th November ultimo : — 1. Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. 4. Copy of a minute by His Honor the Superintendent of Wellington upon the Commissioners' report. Prom the latter document you will observe that His Honor coincides with the opinion expressed in my letter of 19th ultimo, that no private passengers be allowed on board the emigrant ships to this colony. I desire, therefore, that you will, unless the Hon. Mr. Vogel expressly directs to the contrary, insist, in all future charter-parties, that the whole passenger accommodation of emigrant ships is to be at the disposal of the Government. These instructions are, of course, not intended to preclude persons approved by you as suitable emigrants, and paying their own passages, in order to take advantage of " The Immigrants Land Act, 1873," proceeding to the colony as Government emigrants. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 59. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Howrah." Sic, — Wellington, 15th December, 1874. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Howrah " on the evening of the 30th ultimo, with 314^ statute adults on board; ten deaths, equal to two and a half adults, occurred during the voyage. On inspecting the vessel we were pleased to find her in a very good condition. The immigrants were comfortably located, as usual; —the single girls under the poop, with a direct entrance into their compartment; their bunks were in blocks, and they had plenty of light, space, and ventilation. The married people had the after and main hatches ; their compartment was also very comfortable, the bunks being in blocks, with alley-ways. This, we consider, by far the best arrangement, and every surgeon and captain who has had the good fortune to bring out emigrants who have had alley-ways around their compartments agree with us. Another important point was the position of the dispensary, which was under the poop. The issuing-room was under the main hatch. The hospitals were very conveniently situated —two of them being in the stern cabins, and one on deck. The galley and condenser were good. No little inconvenience and annoyance was caused by some single men who had paid their own passages, but found themselves treated as ordinary immigrants. We think that the practice of allowing private passengers in emigrant ships should be discontinued. In conclusion, we append a short report by the surgeon-superintendent; and beg to recommend the payment of all gratuities, the immigrants having expressed themselves as in every way satisfied with Captain Greaves and Surgeon-Superintendent Easton. We have, &c, Alex. Johnston, M.D. John Hollidat. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. H. J. H. Eliott.

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Superintendent's Minute. Eepoet read with satisfaction. A strict rule ought, in my opinion, to be laid down, to the effect that no private passengers should be taken on board immigrant ships. To be forwarded to the Hon. the Minister for Immigration. William Fitziieebeet, 19th December, 1874. Superintendent.

No. 60. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 379.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 18th December, 1874. I have the honor to forward herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Bebington," which arrived at Napier upon the 20th November ultimo : — 1. Commissioner's report. 2. Correspondence regarding the case of L P . 3. Certified list of births and deaths. The charges brought against the surgeon-superintendent and the captain, by the emigrant L P , appeared to be of such a character that, pending full inquiry, I directed that the payment of the gratuities to those officers should be suspended. A full consideration of the whole circumstances, as set forth in the correspondence enclosed, induced me eventually to consider that the treatment of this woman, although, no doubt, in excess of the powers conferred by law, was only actuated by a desire to enforce proper discipline, and I therefore authorized the payment of the gratuities without restrictions. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 60. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Bebington." Sic, — Immigration Commissioners' Office, Napier, 2nd December, 1874. I have the honor to inform you that the "Bebington," Captain Knight, arrived in the Ahuriri roadstead on the 20th ultimo, all well. Four births and three deaths occurred during the voyage. The Commissioners, in accordance with instructions, examined the ship and provisions, and found the ship clean, and the provisions of a satisfactory nature. The passengers were satisfied with the treatment they received from tho doctor and officers of the ship ; also with the provisions supplied to them during the voyage, except in the case of a single girl, named L P . The Commissioners are of opinion that the conduct of the captain and doctor of the ship " Bebington" was very satisfactory in every respect, except in the case of the woman L P , particulars of which, and the opinion of the Commissioners relating thereto, have been already furnished. I have, &c, G. T. Fannin, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. (for Commissioners).

No. 61. The Hon. E. Eichaedson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 1.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 12th January, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Pleiades," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton on the 17th December ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report, 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. Tou will be pleased to learn that this ship arrived in such a satisfactory condition, the only ground of complaint being that the supply of charcoal and sand was insufficient. I have, &c., Edwabd Eichaedson, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 61. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Pleiades." The Commissioners report that on visiting this ship they found the various compartments in a fair state of cleanliness. The provisions throughout the voyage had been of first-class character, and served up well cooked and regularly. The condenser had worked well, and was capable of supplying 500 gallons in twenty-four hours. The supply of water to the passengers had been ample and good

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The immigrants all agree in speaking in high terms of the treatment they had received from the captain, surgeon-superintendent, and officers. The captain and surgeon-superintendent give a very good character to all the immigrants for conduct on the voyage. The class of immigrants generally good ; among the married people, however, are a considerable number not appearing to possess much stamina. Four births had occurred on the voyage, and ten deaths, equal to five and a half adults, none of these from any contagious or infectious disease. The surgeon-superintendent speaks highly of the use of charcoal stoves in damp weather, and suggests that a larger supply of charcoal would be advisable —a suggestion which has been made by others; and also that the supply of sand was insufficient. The Commissioners have much pleasure in recommending that all gratuities be paid, and that the surgeon-superintendent, should he desire it, should be accepted for re-engagements. Wm. Donald. Lyttelton, 24th December, 1874. John F. Eouse.

No. 62. The Hon. E. Eichaedson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 2.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 12th January, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Geraldine Paget," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton on tho 27th ultimo : — 1. Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. There are several points in these documents which you will find worthy of consideration; and with regard to Dr. Hay's report, from the experience of that officer in the charge of emigrants, and his high professional character, I have the fullest confidence in recommending his suggestions. I have, &c, Edwaed Eichaedson, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 62. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Geraldine Paget." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on Sunday, 27th December, after a passage of 101 days. The general health of the immigrants had been good throughout the passage. Twelve deaths had occurred, namely, two adults (one of these by accidentally falling overboard) and ten children. The compartments were clean; but the surgeon reported the sand insufficient, although one bag extra appears to have been shipped. The ventilation in the single-women's compartment was, in the opinion of the Commissioners, insufficient. The provisions had been served out in accordance with the dietary scale; the quality was good, and no complaints were made. No extra stores for children's diet had been placed on board; the contract quantity had, however, been found ample. The condensing apparatus had not worked satisfactorily during a portion of the passage, through the lower tubes breaking. The class of immigrants was very good, and appeared well adapted for the colony. The immigrants spoke in high terms of the treatment they had received from the captain, surgeon-superintendent, and officers. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities. Wm. Donald. JonN F. Eouse. Lyttelton, 29th December, 1874. J. E. Maech.

No. 63. The Hon. E. Eichaedson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 3.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 12th January, 1875. I have the honor to transmit copies of the following documents relative to the " Crusader," which vessel arrived at Lyttelton on the 31st December ultimo: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. You will please note the remarks by the Commissioners upon the position of tho pig-styes and sheep-cotes, and direct that the Despatching Officer is to take care that, if pigs are to be carried at all, the styes should be so placed that a recurrence of the evils complained of in this ship may not be possible. I think it very questionable whether pigs should bo allowed to be taken on board ships crowded with emigrants; but, without giving any positive instructions to the contrary, I leave the matter for your consideration. I have, &c, Edwaed Eichaedson, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

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Enclosure in No. 63. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Crusader." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on 31st December, after a passage of ninety-seven days. The general health of the immigrants had been good. Seven births and seven deaths occurred on the passage. The ventilation in the married-people's compartment was defective, and the fittings were not so well arranged as in previous ships. On this subject the surgeon-superintendent in his report says : —" Would it not bo well to have berths arranged in regular rows, fore and aft the ship, so that straight passages are left between them ? Dark corners here and there, branching off on either side, are difficult to keep in order, even admitting that ventilation be good. All the compartments were exceedingly clean. The provisions had been served out regularly, and the quality had been good. The cooking and distilling apparatus had worked satisfactorily throughout the passage, and no complaints of any kind were made. The class of immigrants appeared admirably adapted for the colony, and their conduct during the voyage was highly spoken of. The Commissioners observed a number of pigs on board ; the styes were placed immediately before and sheep-cotes aft the main hatchway. They strongly recommend that instructions be given to prevent a similar nuisance occurring iv future. The immigrants spoke in high terms of the kind treatment they had received from the captain, surgeon-superintendent, and officers. The Commissioners recommend payment of full gratuities. We have, &c, Wm. Donald. John F. Eouse. Lyttelton, 4th January, 1875. J. E. Maech.

No. 64. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 15.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, lGth January, 1875. Herewith I have the honor to forward the following documents relative to the "Assaye," which vessel arrived at Auckland upon the 2Gth December ultimo: — 1. Eeport of Immigration Commissioners. 2. Eeport of tho Immigration Officer. 3. Memorandum by the Immigration Officer relative to threo single women found to be pregnant. . 4. Certified list of births and deaths. There is nothing specially calling for remark in these documents, with the exception of the case of the three single women, who have been found to bo far advanced in pregnancy. I have to request that you will cause inquiry to be made as to tho certificates upou which free passages were granted to these persons. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

s Enclosure in No. 64. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Assaye.", Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship "Assaye " on the 2Gth ultimo, 115 days from London, with 419 Government immigrants. The surgeon-superintendent reports that no infectious disease had occurred throughout the voyage. There were ten deaths in all —two female adults, married women, from natural causes; and eight of children, principally under twelve months, of diarrhsea, croup, consumption, and meningitis. We found the ship and passengers upon the whole in a cleanly and healthy condition. The "Assaye," being of 1,281 tons measurement, her 'tween-deck accommodation is sufficiently ample for all necessary purposes ; but the fittings-up, and the means adopted for providing ventilation, were not such as to secure the largest amount of light and fresh air to the immigrants' compartments. The hatchways were needlessly darkened by crowding the ship's boats overhead, causing obstruction, also to the free ventilation of the space below. In other respects the arrangements for the comfort of the passengers were very satisfactory. A single man. named W D , was reported by the surgeon-superintendent to have exhibited symptoms of insanity during the voyage. It appears there was no evidence of such a tendency for more than a month after leaving England. The symptoms in this case are not of a violent or dangerous character, and Dr. Young is of opinion that with careful treatment the man may shortly recover; he has been sent in the meantime to the Provincial Hospital, at the Health Officer's suggestion. The surgeon-superintendent also reports that three of the single women are, in his opinion, in an advanced state of pregnancy. If this statement should prove to be true, and at present there appears to be no good reason to doubt its correctness, it serves to show the necessity that exists for increased circumspection on the part of the Home Agency in strictly inquiring into the character of the single women applying to be sent out to tho colony before tho applications are granted. None of these persons were nominated from the colony. We found the supplies of all kinds on board the "Assaye" to be of excellent quality, and sufficient in quantity. There was also an abundance of fresh water for all purposes. Complaints were

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made by a few of the immigrants that at one time they did not receive the weight of new bread to which they were entitled, owing to mismanagement in the baking arrangements. This matter was subsequently satisfactorily explained by Captain McEitehie and Dr. Young, and the parties were content with the explanation. During the latter part of the voyage, at their own request, the flour was served out to the immigrants, instead of being handed to the baker, and they made such use of it as they thought proper. We recommend the payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent and the ship's officers. We have, &c, H. Ellis. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. T. M. Philson, M.D.

No. 65. The Hon. H. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 27.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 13th February, 1875. I have the honor to transmit copies of the following documents relating to tho ship " Avalanche," which vessel arrived at New Plymouth upon the 22nd ultimo :— 1. Letter from the Superintendent of Taranaki, enclosing reports by the Immigration Commissioners and the Immigration Officer. 2. Eeport of the Immigration Officer at Wellington on his inspection of the ship after her arrival in Port Nicholson. Tou will be pleased to learn that the appearance of the ship and immigrants met with the entire approval of the Immigration Commissioners, and that no difficulty was experienced in landing the immigrants. The ship anchored at 7 a.m., and at 1.30 all were disembarked in safety, with their luggage. It is very satisfactory to the Government to find that in carrying out their wishes as to the sending emigrants direct to Taranaki, no trouble or inconvenience has been experienced by the charterers, and I trust that the experience of the " Avalanche " may tend to remove the unreasonable prejudice of the shipping firms with whom you do business against laying ships on for New Plymouth direct. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure 1 in No. 65. His Honor the Supebintendent, Taranaki, to the Hon. the Ministee for Immigeation. Sic, — Superintendent's Office, New Plymouth, 25th January, 1875. I have the honor to enclose herewith two reports which I this day received from Mr. Hulke, the Immigration Officer, in reference to the arrival of the ship " Avalanche " in this port on the 22nd instant. I may briefly observe that the reports are very satisfactory; that the ship arrived hero in good condition, all well, and no complaints. She came to an anchor at 7 o'clock, and at 1.30 same day, being six and a half hours, all were landed. I had arranged for the steam tug " Waitara " to tow the boats to and from the ship, but this did not take place, the tug being at TJrenui on the arrival of the ship. , I have, &c, Feed. A. Caeeington, The Hon. tho Minister for Immigration, Wellington. Superintendent.

Enclosure 2 in No. 65. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Avalanche" (New Plymouth). Sic,— We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Avalanche," with Government immigrants, in the roadstead at 5 a.m., 22nd inst., having on board 2G4 statute adults, or 327 souls, being one soul less than embarked in London, five deaths (infants) having taken place and four births during the voyage. The condition of the ship in all particulars in which the Commissioners were requested to inquire, was most satisfactory. The appearance of the immigrants as regards cleanliness, &c, was such as proved to the satisfaction of the Commissioners that every care had been taken by Captain Bishop and Dr. Doyle in the supervision of the immigrants, and this was fully supported by the testimonials presented to both the captain and doctor by those under their care. The report of the surgeon-superin-tendent will be handed to the Commissioners on their visiting the ship at Wellington, at which port the remainder of the immigrants will be landed. The Commissioners have much pleasure in recommending that all the gratuities be paid. We have, &c. P. J. O'Caeeoll. His Honor the Superintendent, Taranaki. W. K. Hulke.

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Enclosure 3 in No. 65. Immigeation Officee's Eepoet on Ship " Avalanche " (Wellington). Sic,— Wellington, 27th January, 1875. I have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Avalanche " on the 25th inst., with fifty-nine adult immigrants for this port. As the " Avalanche " had been previously inspected at New Plymouth, that being the first place of arrival in the colony, the Commissioners here did not consider it necessary to make another inspection of the vessel aud immigrants. I merely mustered the people and arranged for landing them at once, which was done. The Harbour Master and myself walked through the 'tween-decks, and were pleased to find that everything had been well arranged for the comfort of the immigrants, so far as fittings, light, and ventilation were concerned. The immigrants had far more cubical space per adult than in any immigrant ship which has yet visited this port. I have, &c, H. J. H. Eliott, His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. Immigration Officer.

No. 66. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 29.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 13th February, 1875. I have the honor to transmit the following documents relating to the ship " Nelson," which vessel arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 31st December: — - 1. Eeport of the Immigration Commissioners. 2. Certified list of births and deaths during the passage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 66. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Nelson." Sic, — Port Chalmers, 2nd January, 1875. We have the honor to report that the ship " Nelson " arrived in port on the 31st ultimo, having made a passage from the Clyde of eighty-eight days. Her immigrants numbered 321 souls, being equal to 264 statute adults. Two births and four deaths occurred on the passage, the latter being confined to young children. Tho health of the immigrants on their arrival appeared to be very favourable, a married woman being the only exception, who seemed to be far gone in consumption. Having made the usual survey of the several compartments, we found them pretty clean, and fitted in the usual way in Clyde ships. On asking the usual questions, the immigrants expressed themselves as well satisfied with their treatment on the voyage. The provisions supplied were good, and the condenser (Chaplin's patent) supplied abundance of wholesome water. The immigrants by the " Nelson" are a very good class, who appear to have been judiciously selected to supply the present demand for agricultural labourers in the province. Captain Anderson, who has long been favourably known in connection with the conveyance of emigrants to Otago; Mr. Macaffer, the surgeon in charge; and the officers of the ship, appear to us to have fulfilled their respective duties towards tho passengers very satisfactorily. We have, &c, Colin Allajt. John Deysdale, His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. Wm. Thomson.

No. 67. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 30.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 13th February, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Carnatie," which vessel arrived at Picton on the 10th ultimo : — 1. Eeport by the Immigration Commissioners. 2. Eeport by the Immigration Officer. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 67. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Carnatie." Picton, 11th January, 1875. We, the Commissioners appointed to inspect immigrant vessels and immigrants at the port of Picton, have to report that the " Carnatie " arrived at Picton last night, and that we went on board this morning, and found the ship clean and the immigrants in good health. There had been only two deaths on board, and those both infants, and there had been but very little sickness during the voyage. 6—D. 3.

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After making the fullest inquiries, wo found that all expressed themselves as fully satisfied with the treatment they had received from the captain, doctor, and all on board, and had no cause whatever of complaint. Cyeus Goultee. T. Henby Dalton. His Honor the Superintendent, Blenheim. W. B. Teipe.

No. 68. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 34.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 13th February, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith the following documents relating to the ship " Margaret Galbraith," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 31st ultimo: — 1. Eeport of the Immigration Commissioners. 2. Certified list of births and deaths during the passage. I have, &c., The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 68. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Margaret Galbraith." Sic, — Port Chalmers, 15th January, 1875. We have the honor to report that the ship " Margaret Galbraith" arrived in port from London on the 9th instant, her passage occupying ninety-seven days. On receiving the bill of health of the immigrants on the passage, as is usual alongside the ship, we found that one case of scarlatina, pronounced by the surgeon-superintendent of the ship as very slight, broke out on board on the 30th November, in a child aged fifteen months, that the child recovered, and that no other case afterwards appeared. Acting on the recommendation of our medical brother Commissioner, we hesitated to clear the ship until the Chairman of the Board of Health was communicated with on the matter. The ship was placed in quarantine pending further orders. The Chairman of the Board having called a meeting on Monday morning, the 11th instant, the Board resolved that the whole of tho immigrants should be removed from the ship to the quarantine station, for the purpose of washing and fumigating their clothes; after which, on evidence being given that the orders of the Board were fully complied with, we were authorized to grant pratique. The ship was also to be fumigated, and on similar evidence being given pratique would be granted. Having received the necessary reports that the instructions of the Board were carried out, we admitted the ship to pratique on Wednesday, the 13th, and the immigrants on Friday, the 15th instant. On making our usual inspection of the ship, we found everything in fine order, the several compartments more than usually clean and well fitted according to the block system. The galley was large and fully sufficient for its requirements, and the condenser more than equal to supply all demands for water. The immigrants, numbering equal to 119| statute adults, of whom the majority were nominated in the province, appeared to be a superior class. They enjoyed excellent health on the voyage, and landed in equally good health. One death, that of an infant four months old, occurred soon after leaving England. It is due to Dr. Batchelor, surgeon-superintendent, that we should notice that to his energy and skill in the treatment of the case of scarlatina which appeared, this department is indebted for the effective manner in which the disease was stamped out at the outset. The whole of the immigrants expressed themselves as satisfied with their treatment. Captain Peebles and his officers fulfilled their duties most satisfactorily, and arc deserving of their gratuities. We have, <fee, Colin Allan. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent, Dunedin. John Deysdale, M.D.

No. 69. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 37.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 15th February, 1875. I have the honor to transmit copies of the following documents relating to the ship " Clarence," which vessel arrived at Napier upon the sth ultimo : — 1. Eeport of Immigration Commissioners. 2. Eeport of the Provincial Surgeon. 3. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 4. Certified list of births and deaths during the passage. There is nothing in these documents which appears to call for special remark by me, but it seems evident that the very large mortality amongst the children may be attributed to tho dietary scale, which was not sufficiently liberal as regards nutritive food. I trust by this time the new dietary scale, which in my telegram of the 29th October last you were instructed to adopt, is now in use, and found to answer its intended purpose. I have, &c., The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

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Enclosure in No. 69. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Clarence." Sic,— Immigration Commissioners' Office, Napier, 10th January, 1875. I have the honor to inform you that the "Clarence," Captain Emmett, arrived on the sth instant. The Commissioners have tho painful duty to report that twenty-six deaths occurred during the voyage, principally from diarrhoea, but after a careful inquiry, can arrive at no other conclusion than that every attention and care was exercised by Dr. Murphy in endeavouring to mitigate the malady. At the same time the Commissioners desire to express their regret that' tho authorities at home did not take some precautionary means towards providing for the change of diet of such people as those that came from Shetland, whose principal food is fish. In the case of Scandinavians being transmitted, a very large quantity of fish is put on board, which to a great degree obviates a complete change of diet, as has been in the case of the Shetland people now arrived. The Commissioners, in accordance with instructions, examined tho ship and provisions, and found the ship very clean, andj provisions of a thoroughly satisfactory nature. After the immigrants were landed, a rumour got in circulation that the water had been bad, which, coming to the Commissioners' ears, they at once instituted an investigation, but could not ascertain where it arose; the immigrants all expressing themselves again perfectly satisfied with the provisions, &c, they had received, also with the treatment accorded to them by the officers of the ship. I have, &c, G. Thos. Fannin, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. Secretary to Commissioners.

No. 70. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 39.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 15th February, 1875. I have the honor to transmit copies of the following documents relating to the ship " Dilharree," which arrived at Auckland upon the 16th ultimo: — 1. Eeport of the Immigration Commissioners. 2. Letter from the Surgeon, calling attention to the case of an immigrant suffering from phthisis. 3. Certified list of births and deaths during the passage. 4. Memorandum from the Immigration Officer as to forwarding certain of the immigrants to other provinces. I have to call your attention to the remarks of the Commissioners in their report upon the insufficiency of the medical examination of the emigrants. As, however, upon this subject my predecessor addressed you at length in his letter No. 181, of the 29th June, 1874, relative to the ship " Scimitar," and generally in much of the correspondence about that date, and as no doubt his instructions have already been given effect to, I will not enter upon the question further than to say that it appears clear to me that the surgeon-superintendent, upon whom the care of the emigrants during the voyage devolves, should have, and should in all cases strictly exercise, the power of rejecting all persons he may deem unfit. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 70. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Dilharree." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 19th January, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the " Dilharree" on the lGth instant, with 375 Government immigrants on board. The ship sailed from London on the 2nd of October, and consequently the voyage extended over 105 days. The immigrants, with a few exceptions, arrived in good health, and all expressed themselves satisfied with the treatment they had received. The surgeon-superintendent reports nine deaths upon the voyage, namely, one male adult and eight children. The former was a married man, aged twentyfive years, of acute rheumatism, and the children's ages were from six weeks to three years, the cause of death being chiefly diarrhoea. There were three births. Dr. Forbes states that no infectious disease appeared among the immigrants since they left England. A case of typhoid fever was reported, that of a male adult aged thirty-three, since partially convalescent, but who has been sent in the meantime for further medical treatment to the Provincial Hospital. A married man named A C , aged thirty, having a wife and two children, appears to be in a confirmed state of consumption. From inquiries made of Dr. Forbes, it would seem to be doubtful where the responsibility lies with respect to the proper medical examination of the immigrants prior to embarkation. The certificates of health, which are supposed to guarantee the soundness of constitution of the respective applicants for a free passage, are not, Dr. Forbes states, to his knowledge, usually tested by close individual examination of the immigrants, either on the part of the Government Inspector or by the surgeon-superintendent of the ship. The latter, it would seem, in most instances has not an adequate opportunity for thoroughly acquainting himself with the true state of health of the immigrants before the sailing of the

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vessel; and even were it otherwise, his decision is subsequently overruled by the Government Medical Inspector on a casual survey of the passengers at the last moment, and by this means the responsibility is divided, and persons are sent out to the colony at the public cost, as in the case of A C , who, if not confirmed invalids, are yet unfitted for ordinary daily labour. We beg to enclose herewith the surgeon-superintendent's report of this case. We would also state that two persons similarly situated arrived by the " Waitangi," and the same number by the " Assaye," within the past two months. The fitting up on board the " Dilharree" was excellent. The respective compartments, especially the single women's, presented a most creditable appearance for cleanliness, and all were well lighted and ventilated. The provisions were unexceptionable, and the supply of fresh water was abundant. The condenser worked well at all times. The authorized allowance of preserved onions and carrots was served out during the voyage, and the supply of medical comforts was equal to all requirements. In conclusion, we recommend payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent and ship's officers. ■We have, &c, H. Ellis, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. T. M. Philson, M.D.

No. 71. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 41.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th February, 1875. I have the honor to forward copies of the following documents relating to the ship " Humboldt," which vessel arrived at Port Nicholson upon the 28th ultimo: — 1. Eeport of Immigration Commissioners. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths during the passage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 71. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Humboldt." Sic, — Wellington, 4th February, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Humboldt " on the 28th ultimo, with 31H statute adults, Scandinavian immigrants from Hamburgh. There were eleven deaths and eight births during the voyage. On inspecting the vessel we found her in exceedingly good condition. The 'tween-decks of the "Humboldt" are high for a vessel of her tonnage, which makes her specially adapted for carrying immigrants. The single girls had a comfortable compartment; their hospital, bath-room, and closet being very convenient. The married compartment was roomy, clean, and well ventilated; the hospital was particularly good. The single-men's compartment was very comfortable and clean. The bunks were in blocks against the side of the ship. We were particularly struck with the superior character of the fittings, ladders, hatchways, &c, as compared with vessels arriving from a British port. The immigrants were a fine healthy-looking lot of people, and most of them seemed to be well clothed and tidy in appearance. In conclusion, we recommend the payment of all gratuities, with the remark that both Captain Busch and Surgeon-Superintendent Yon Mirbach seem to have each performed their duties zealously and faithfully. A short summary of the voyage by Dr. Mirbach is appended. We have, &c., Alexandeb Johnston, M.D. John Holliday. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. H. J. H. Eliott.

No. 72. The Hon. 11. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 51.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington 15th February, 1875. I have the honor to transmit copies of the following documents relating to the ship " Warwick," which arrived at Auckland upon the 22nd ultimo: — 1. Eeport of the Immigration Commissioners. 2. Eeport of the Surgeon-Superintendent. 3. Certified list of births and deaths during the passage. I desire to call your attention to the letter of Dr. Nesbit, in which he speaks of the insufficiency, in his opinion, of the medical inspection of the emigrants before embarkation, and states the difficulties he personally experienced from your department in obtaining his appointment as surgeonsuperintendent, for which, at least from his statement, ho appears to have been indebted to a Mr. Moore, a chemist and druggist, in 14, St. Mary-Axe, upon payment of a fee of £10 10s. It is not my

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wish to interfere unnecessarily with the details of emigration in your office, but it does seem to me, if Dr. Nesbit's statement is correct, a most improper arrangement, that the appointment of surgeonsuperintendents should practically vest in a person unknown to, and utterly irresponsible to the Government, and whose recommendation is based solely upon a consideration of £s. d. The Under Secretary of the department informs me that he has heard more than once, unofficially, that this method of appointment of surgeons was the practice of the London office, but, in the absence of any official information, he did not consider himself justified in bringing the matter before the Government. I have to request that you will cause a strict inquiry to be made into the grave charges set forth by Dr. Nesbit and the whole subject of the appointment of surgeon-superintendents, and report fully to me by an early mail. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 72. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Warwick." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 30th January, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the "Warwick" on the 22nd inst., 103 days from London, with 242 Government immigrants on board. Generally the health of the passengers appears to have been excellent throughout the voyage. Four deaths occurred since leaving England, one being that of a male adult, fifty-five years of age, of obstruction of the bowels ; the remainder were children under two years of age, including an infant of fifteen days, chiefly of measles and diarrhoea. Two births took place, one of which was still-born. We were informed that no infectious disease was known on board the " Warwick " throughout the voyage. This ship's accommodation may be said to be above the average. The immigrants' compartments were well lighted, the ventilation was effective, and the 'tween-decks, at the time we inspected them, presented a thoroughly orderly and cleanly appearance. All expressed themselves well satisfied with the treatment they had received. They have the appearance of being a useful and respectable set of people, and a large proportion of them will, we are confident, meet with ready employment. We found the provisions to be of good quality throughout and the supply abundant; so also with respect to the medical comforts. There was an ample supply of fresh water at all times, the condenser on board having worked well and given great satisfaction. The authorized issue of preserved onions and carrots took place regularly, and the supply of these articles was sufficient. During the first few weeks of the voyage there was some dissatisfaction among the immigrants with respect to the quantity of bread produced from the daily allowance of flour. They entertained a suspicion that the baker did not do them justice, and ultimately the raw flour was handed over to themselves, to be dealt with as they thought proper. Matters, we find, have taken much the same course in the case of not a few of the immigrant ships previously arriving at this port, but the remedy commonly resorted to in these instances is not, we think, the best that might be applied. The alternative should scarcely bo forced upon persons on board ship of making their own bread where the operation has to be performed under so many serious disadvantages, the consequence too often being that ill-prepared and indigestible food has to be partaken of for a considerable portion of the voyage, not only by robust adults but by delicate women and children, to the probable, if not certain, deterioration of the health and comfort of all concerned. There is no real necessity for this. The authorities on board immigrant ships need permit no mystery in respect to the bread-producing properties of flour of average qualities to prevent them ascertaining in each case with tolerable correctness what the results should be, and duly insisting upon those results. Steps might be taken at the outset to secure the services of men sufficiently experienced and trustworthy to insure the proper baking of tho immigrants' bread during the voyage, and this would remove a deeply felt source of annoyance, not unfrequently producing wide-spread dissatisfaction on board our immigrant ships. We recommend the payment of the usual gratuities to the ship's officers and surgeon-superin-tendent. We have, &c, H. Ellis. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. T. M. Philson, M.D.

No. 73. (No. 55.) The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 9th March, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Invererne," which arrived at Auckland upon 29th January: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths on the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 73. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Invererne." g IE Immigration Office, Auckland, 4th February, 1875. We-have the honor to report the arrival of the " Invererne" on the 29th ult., ninety-two days

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from London, with 200 Government immigrants on board. The vessel arrived in port in a cleanly condition. The health of the passengers was good throughout, and all spoke favourably of the treatment they had received upon the voyage. No infectious or contagious disease was known among the immigrants since leaving England. The deaths amounted to four, all of which were children ranging from eight months to nine years of age, chiefly of bronchitis. There were five births. The provisions were of the best quality, and the supplies of all kinds, including medical comforts, appear to have been abundant. The appointed issue of preserved onions and carrots took place regularly, and the surgeon-superintendent reports favourably of the effects upon the health of the passengers. There was a good supply of fresh water. The immigrants' compartments were comfortably arranged, and were well lighted and ventilated. The bath-room and hospitals also were conveniently placed, and all possible attention appears to have been paid to the health and cleanliness of the passengers. The immigrants by this ship perhaps are above the average in point of suitableness, especially as respects the large proportion of single men among them, who, as a rule, on account of the scarcity of house accommodation, meet with more ready employment in the country districts. We beg to recommend the payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent and the ship's officers, including the master, mate, and purser. We have, &c, H. Ellis. Tho Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington, N.Z. T. M. Philson, M.D.

No. 74. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 56.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 9th March, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Waimate," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 25th January : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 74. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Waimate." Lyttelton, 27th January, 1875. The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the 25th instant, after a passage of eighty-eight days. The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the voyage. Pour births had occurred and seven deaths, namely, one adult and six children, representing two and a half adults. All the compartments were clean, but the light and ventilation in the single-women's compartment was not sufficient. The provisions had been served out in accordance with the dietary scale, and the quality was good. Some complaints were made as to the cooking; on inquiry, the Commissioners ascertained that this was mainly owing to the fact that the boilers were not supplied with proper false bottoms, in consequence of which the food was occasionally burnt. In the single-women's compartment the bath got out of order (and was removed three weeks before arrival) through one of the pipes bursting. The class of immigrants was very good, but the Commissioners observed in the single-women's hospital a young woman who was reported by the surgeon to have become paralyzed. His report is as follows :—" Soon after starting, I found one of the single girls named H G suffering from loss of voice of two years' duration, not at all a fit subject for emigration ; and towards the middle of the passage, notwithstanding the care and trouble bestowed on her, she became paralyzed in one side, and was landed in that state." The young woman had to be sent to the hospital. The immigrants spoke in high terms of the treatment they had received from the captain, surgeonsuperintendent, and officers of the ship. The Commissioners recommend the payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon should he desire it. Wm. Donald. John E. Eotjse. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. J. E. Maech.

No. 75. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 57.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 9th March, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship "Wild Deer," which'arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 20th January : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

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Enclosure in No. 75. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Wild Deer." Sic, — Port Chalmers, 21st January, 1875. The ship " Wild Deer " arrived in port on the 20th instant, having made a passage of eightyone days from Gravesend. Her immigrants numbered 300 souls, being equal to 243 statute adults. Two deaths occurred on the passage, both being young children. The whole of the immigrants were landed in excellent health. On making the usual inspection, we found the ship beautifully clean in every compartment. The condenser (Chaplin's patent) worked well, and supplied at the rate of 500 gallons of water in twelve hours. Our attention was directed to the booby hatch over the married-people's compartment, which appeared to us to be insufficiently constructed and fastened to withstand the pressure of water that finds its way amidships. It was washed away more than once on the passage, to the discomfort of the persons occupying the compartment. The immigrants were well satisfied with their treatment. The provisions were good, and served out according to rule. There were no complaints. The surgeon-superintendent, Dr. Gregg, and Captain Malcolm and his officers, fulfilled their respective duties to the immigrants faithfully and conscientiously. We have, <fee, Colin Allan. John Deysdale, M.D. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. Wm. Thomson.

No. 76. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 58.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 9th March, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Lady Jocelyn," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 21st January : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 76. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Lady Jocelyn." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on January 21st, after a voyage of seventy-eight days. The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the passage. Pour births had occurred and nineteen deaths —namely, eighteen from infantile diseases and one adult from apoplexy. All the apartments were exceedingly clean; the light and ventilation perfect, combined with ample room. In the married-people's compartment thirty-two berths had been erected on the principle of Johnstone's patent. These berths appear admirably suited for immigrant ships; they not only permit privacy, but materially assist in keeping thorough cleanliness, as the whole of the fittings are easily removed. The surgeon-superintendent approves of the plan, and the immigrants who occupied the berths were very well pleased with them, and much preferred them to the ordinary open bunk. The provisions had been served out in accordance with the dietary scale, the supply was ample, and the quality very good. The cooking and distilling apparatus had worked very satisfactorily throughout the passage. The bath-rooms in the single and married women's compartments had worked admirably, there being throughout the passage a plentiful supply of both hot and cold water. The immigrants had no complaints of any kind to make, but on the contrary spoke highly of the treatment they had received from the surgeon-superintendent and officers of the ship. The matron performed her duties exceedingly well, and appeared well adapted for the situation. The Commissioners would suggest that the enclosed berth for matrons should bo constructed so as to allow them a little more privacy. The class of immigrants was highly satisfactory, and appeared well adapted for the colony. The Commissioners recommend the payment of full gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent, should he desire it. Wm. Donald. John E. Eouse. Lyttelton, 25th January, 1875. J. E. Maech.

No. 77. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 59.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 10th March, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " City of Dunedin," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 20th ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

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Enclosure in No. 77. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "City of Dunedin." Sib, — Immigration Office, Dunedin, 23rd February, 1875. We have the honor to report that the ship " City of Dunedin" arrived in port from the Clyde on the 20th instant, her passage having occupied 112 days. The following is a summary of her passengers, viz.,—Married people, 71; single men, 45 ; single women, 24 ; children under twelve years, 65; infants, 9. During the early part of the passage measles prevailed amongst the children, and eleven deaths occurred from this disease; but as the last case took place on the 13th December, and the general health of the immigrants was good until arrival in port, we had no hesitation in passing the ship, and allowing the immigrants to land. The usual questions being asked, we were satisfied that the provisions of the Passengers Act were duly complied with, and, notwithstanding the length of the voyage, the immigrants were in good spirits, and had no complaints either as to the provisions or supply of water. We believe both Dr. Gillies and Captain Boss and his officers fulfilled their respective duties faithfully and conscientiously. We have, &c, Wm. Thomson. Colin Allan. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. John Deysdale, M.D.

No. 78. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 60.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 10th March, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Hudson," which arrived at Napier upon the 12th February ultimo: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. There is nothing in these reports which seems to demand special remark ; but I would direct your attention to the minute of His Honor the Superintendent of Hawke's Bay upon the Immigration Officer's report, in which His Honor advises me that the demand for labour still continues, and that the whole of this shipment was engaged within forty-eight hours; and further, with regard to the class of emigrants suitable for the province. I have, <fee, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 78. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Hudson." Sic, — Immigration Commissioners' Office, Napier, 17th February, 1875. I have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Hudson," Captain Trewyn, with immigrants, from London. One death occurred during the voyage —a child two and a half years of age; and two births —one still-born. The Commissioners have groat pleasure in being able to report everything, without exception, perfectly satisfactory; so much so, that no further comment is requisite. I have, &c, G. T. Pannin, The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. Secretary to Commissioners.

No. 79. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 62.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 10th March, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Gareloch," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 12th ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Letter from the Superintendent of Otago, enclosing a report by the Surgeon-Superinten-dent relative to the outbreak of scarlet fever. 3. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 79. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Gareloch." (No. 449.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Dunedin, 22nd February, 1875: The ship " Gareloch," from London, arrived in port on the 12th instant, having made a passage from London of eighty-two days. Tho following is a summary of her immigrants, viz.,—

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Married people, 9S ; single men, 65 ; single women, 43 ; children Under twelve years, 81; infants, 18. The surgeon-superintendent, Dr. van Hemert, having reported that scarlatina broke out on the passage, that two deaths occurred from this disease, and that five cases were then under treatment, we decided upon placing the ship in quarantine, pending the decision of the Board of Health, which met on the following day. The Board resolved that the married people and single females should be removed to the quarantine station, and the single men to the station on Goat Island; that all the clothes should be washed and fumigated ; and that, providing no new case broke out in the meantime, and on sufficient proof being adduced by the surgeon-superintendent in charge that the instructions of the Board were faithfully carried out, the ship and the immigrants, except those in the hospital, should be admitted to pratique on Monday, the 22nd instant. Having found that no new case of disease broke out, and that the instructions given were carried out, we accordingly admitted both the ship and immigrants to pratique on the 22nd instant. The immigrants were fully satisfied with their treatment, and had no complaints to make. Tho ship was well found and fitted, and arrived in good order. The surgeon-superintendent, Dr. van Hemert, Captain Greenwood and his officers, fulfilled their duties to our satisfaction. We have much pleasure in awarding them the gratuities assigned to them. We have, &c, Colin Allan. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. John Deysdale, M.D.

No. 80. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 63.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 11th March, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Eakaia," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 7th February ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. His Honor the Superintendent, in forwarding these documents, has directed my special attention to that portion of the Commissioners' report in which they allude to the class of persons selected as matrons, and remark that in the case of this ship the person chosen as matron was, through infirmity, utterly incompetent. I have to request that you will direct such arrangements to be made with regard to the despatch of ships as may, as far as possible, insure the appointment of properly qualified persons as matrons, as lam sure you w rill agree with me that upon the character of these officers depends much of the comfort and well-being of the female emigrants. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 80. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Eakaia." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on 7th February, after a passage of eighty-three days. On proceeding alongside, the Health Officer ascertained that measles and scarlet fever had broken out during the passage, and that two cases of the latter were still under treatment. The ship was accordingly ordered into quarantine; the families and single women were placed on Eipa Island, and the single men on Quail Island. After the immigrants had all been landed at the Quarantine Station the Health Officer inspected the ship, and found that the fittings, which had been put up in London, had to be altered before the emigrants embarked at Plymouth, as the accommodation originally provided for the single men was insufficient, and that provided for the single women more than required. These alterations caused awkward corners in the ship, and considerably interfered with the ventilation. A plan showing the alterations made is attached to this report. .The hospital accommodation was sufficient. The cooking apparatus, condenser, and bath arrangements had worked satisfactorily throughout the passage. The Commissioners made the usual inquiries amongst the immigrants as soon as they were admitted to pratique. The only complaint made by them was the quality of the flour. A sample was tested which appeared very good, but, from the evidence of the surgeon-superintendent and baker, the Commissioners are of opinion that the flour issued to tho immigrants on the passage was not of first quality. The Commissioners again desire to direct attention to the class of persons selected in England to fulfil the duties of matrons. On this occasion the person chosen had no experience, and was thoroughly incompetent, being not only sbort-sighted but also very deaf. Throughout the passage she appears to have been totally unqualified either to control those placed under her charge, or to maintain discipline amongst them. Her appointment, however, had not been cancelled, as her own conduct had been irreproachable. Although the instructions given to captains and surgeons prior to their leaving England give them ample power to annul the matron's appointment, the Commissioners are aware that this course is rarely adopted, unless for some flagrant cause. They therefore strongly recommend that greater care be taken in the appointment of matrons. The surgeon's care and attention were gratefully referred to by the immigrants. The usual gratuities to the officers are recommended. Wm. Donald. John F. Eouse. Lyttelton, 20th February, 1875. J. E. Maech. 7—D. 3.

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No. 81. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 69.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 11th March, 1875. I have the honor to forward herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Michael Angelo," which arrived at Nelson upon the 22nd January ultimo: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report and explanation of certain remarks therein by the Immigration Officer. 2. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. Under the circumstances of the conduct of the late Captain Luckie, and the consequent greatly increased responsibility and trouble entailed upon the surgeon-superintendent and the chief officer, as reported to me by the Immigration Commissioners, I authorized an extra gratuity of £10 to be paid to each of those officers. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 81. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Michael Angelo." Sic, — Immigration Office, Nelson, 28th January, 1875. The ship "Michael Angelo," with 263 immigrants, equal to 224J adults, and six military settlers and their families, 30 in number, for Wellington, equal to 20 adults, making together 293 souls, equal to 244£ adults, arrived here on the 22nd of January, after a favourable passage of eighty-one days. On boarding her in the outer anchorage, where she brought up, we learnt that measles in a mild form broke out among the children shortly after the vessel got to sea, but by judicious treatment the disease was prevented from spreading, and soon got under. The deaths during the passage were five in number, four children and one adult, the latter a married man, who died of rheumatism and disease of the heart. We found the vessel iD a highly satisfactory state, and admirably adapted for carrying emigrants, the only complaint made against her being a leakage of the deck on the starboard side, which caused discomfort to the occupants of the berths underneath, and the customary complaint from mothers of families, that the food furnished had been unsuitable for young children. In some measure an otherwise agreeable passage was made uncomfortable by the misconduct of Captain Luckie, who did not live to reach Nelson, but was found dead in his cabin on the afternoon of the 18th of January, having expired suddenly of disease of the heart. Painful though it be to censure the dead, we should fail in our duty did we pass over silently the behaviour of Captain Luckie during the passage. Addicted to drink, he kept mostly within his cabin, and gave the surgeonsuperintendent, Mr. J. M. Booth, little if any assistance in controlling the immigrants. But, worse than this, Captain Luckie promoted intemperance to a considerable degree among the immigrants, particularly the single men, by selling them liquor, and many of these landed penniless, through having been tempted to squander the money they took on board in getting intoxicated. The surgeonsuperintendent, we believe, did all in his power to stop the evil, by remonstrances and threats, but was powerless to put a stop to it. We have reason for saying that nearly £100 worth of spirits were sold to the immigrants by the captain during the voyage. Considering the number of lives in charge of the captain of an emigrant ship, the command is too often intrusted to men whose habits unfit them for the duty. Out of the four vessels with immigrants sent to Nelson within the last few months, two of the captains ought not to have been intrusted with command. The attention of the Agent-General should be directed to this subject, and measures taken to insure for the command of emigrant ships men of sober habits. The customary captain's gratuity of £25 having, as we are informed, been withheld, we recommend its distribution among the other officers of the vessel, including the surgeon. We have great pleasure in recommending Dr. Booth for future employment by Government, should he desire it. With a less capable man in medical charge of the " Michael Angelo " the consequences might have been serious; unsupported by the captain, he was the only person to put down broils, which the captain was the means of creating ; and even in matters affecting the safety of the ship, he alone could approach Captain Luckie, and make him amenable to reason. We have, &c, Leonaed Booe. C. Elliott. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington, N.Z. James S. Ceoss.

No. 82. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 81.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th March, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Oamaru," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 17th ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, <fee, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

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Enclosure in No. 82. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Oamaru." Sic, — Port Chalmers, 4th March, 1875. We have the honor to report that the ship " Oamaru " arrived in port on the 17th February instant, with Government immigrants, from Glasgow, having made a passage of seventy-eight days. On receiving the bill of health alongside, we learned that two cases of scarlet fever, both being in one family, made their appearance on sth February, and that both children were then doing well. The ship, on the recommendation of the medical Commissioner, was placed in quarantine, and a report made to the Chairman of the Board of Health of the circumstance. The Board having met on the 18th current, it was resolved that the sick family be at once removed out of the ship to the hospital on the quarantine station; that all the immigrants and their luggage be conveyed, the married people and single females to Quarantine Island, and the single men to the station on Goat Island; that their clothes be washed and fumigated; that the cabin passengers be allowed to remain in the ship; that the latter be also cleansed and fumigated; that the whole of the immigrants and the ship be admitted to pratique on Monday, the 2nd March, on sufficient proof being adduced that the instructions of the Board were carried out, and that no fresh case of fever broke out in the meantime. The single men on Goat Island having carried out the instructions given them as reported by Captain Parnie, who was in charge of this station, were accordingly admitted to pratique on the Ist March, and conveyed to Caversham depot. With respect to the immigrants on Quarantine Island, it happened that on the day previous to that appointed for their release, Dr. van Hemert, surgeon-superintendent of the ship " Gareloch," who was in charge of the station, reported that a fresh case of scarlatina appeared in the family left on the island of the ship " Gareloch's " immigrants, who had already two children in the hospital suffering from the disease, this family being foolishly allowed by those in charge to mix with the " Oamaru's " immigrants. The Board appointed Dr. Brown, its medical member, and Dr. Drysdale, the medical Immigration Commissioner, together with the Health and Immigration Officers, to visit the island ; the two former to land and make a thorough inspection of the patients, and report the result of their investigation on the following day. The Board accordingly met on the 3rd instant, to receive the report of Drs. Brown and Drysdale, from which it appeared that the case reported by Dr. van Hemert was not that of scarlatina. It was at the same time resolved that all the healthy immigrants be admitted to pratique on the following day. The following is a summary of the immigrants by this ship:—4B families, 205 souls = 158 adults ; single men, 59 souls =59 adults ; single women, 15 souls =15 adults: total, 279 souls = 232 adults. We admitted the ship to pratique on the Ist instant, in accordance with the resolution of the Board of Health, and made our usual inspection. We found everything on board in first-rate order, the several compartments being well fitted and scrupulously clean. The ship, which is 1,305 tons burden, being expressly built for the New Zealand trade, and now on her first voyage, is furnished with every improvement calculated to promote the health and comfort of passengers, her 'tween-decks being lofty and well ventilated. She is commanded by Captain Stuart, who has had considerable experience in the passenger trade to Otago, and whose energy and skill, in conjunction with Dr. Eichards, the surgeon-superintendent, in taking immediate measures to stamp out the disease on board on its first appearance, cannot be too highly commended. The immigrants, one and all, speak in high terms of their treatment on the voyage. We believe the provisions of the Passengers Act were faithfully administered. We have, &c, Colin Allan. Wm. Thomson. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago. John Deysdale, M.D.

No. 83. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 82.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th March, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Berar," which arrived at Port Nicholson upon the 22nd January : — 1. Immigration Comissioners' report. 2. Eeport by the Surgeon-Superintendent. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 83. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Berar." Sib,— Wellington, 12th February, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship "Berar" on the 22nd ultimo, with 343 souls, equal to 280^ statute adults. There were four births and nineteen deaths during the voyage, and two on the Quarantine Station. As scarlet fever was raging on board at the time of arrival, the pilot took the ship direct to the Quarantine Station. We proceeded there as speedily as possible, and, to our regret, we found that there had been a great deal of sickness during the whole voyage; but, as a Eoyal Commission has been issued to inquire into the cause of sickness on board this vessel, it is not necessary for us to go as fully into the subject as we otherwise should. After the immigrants had been landed the ship was thoroughly fumigated and painted inside and out; she was thus enabled to be

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admitted to pratique within the time allowed by the lay days. The emigrants' bedding, clothing, &c, was thoroughly disinfected and washed, and from time to time portions of the passengers* were admitted to pratique, after undergoing a strict medical examination. There are now about seventy souls on the island, being the families of persons in hospital. Some idea of the amount of sickness in this vessel can be formed when it is stated that there were upwards of 120 cases of scarlet fever during the voyage, and on arrival there were twenty persons then under medical treatment. On inspecting the vessel we found that our orders had been carried out; but, as the fittings had been removed, we are unable to report fully on the 'tween-deck arrangements. The single girls were aft, the married people in the centre, and the single men in the fore part of the ship. The 'tween-decks appeared to us rather low for an emigrant vessel, compared with some of the ships which we have inspected, and complaint was also made of the position of the married hospital, which was in the 'tween-decks, under the main hatch, with the store and issuing room opposite. There were no alleyways round tho berths, which was also a cause of complaint. Taking the immigrants as a body, they appear to be a good class of people, and many of them have already found employment. A short summary of the voyage by Surgeon Superintendent Newell is attached. In conclusion, we recommend the payment of all gratuities, and, so far as we have been able to learn, Surgeon-Superintendent Newell and Captain Heigho have performed their respective duties to the best of their ability. We have, &c, Alexandeb Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Holliday.

No. 84 The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 83.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th March, 1874. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Wellington," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 25th ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths upon the voyage. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 84. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Wellington." Sic,— Port Chalmers, 28th February, 1875. The ship " Wellington " arrived in port on the 25th instant, her passage being sixty-three days from Plymouth, where she embarked her immigrants. The summary of her immigrants is as follows, viz.:—Assisted, 174 souls = 145 adults ; nominated, 2 souls = 2 adults: total, 176 souls = 147 adults. During the voyage eight deaths occurred, all being children except one. The diseases were such as are common to children of tender age on board ship. On inspection we found the several compartments of the ship in a high state of cleanliness also well fitted, and ventilated by side scuttles and permanent deck ventilators. The single females occupied the fore part of the poop, which has been expressly and permanently fitted for females, and contains the necessary offices and a bath. This ship, being built for the New Zealand passenger trade, and now on her first voyage, has every convenience, and the newest improvements for the comfort of passengers. The condenser (Chaplin's patent) supplied abundance of water. Having asked the usual questions, we received satisfactory answers from all the immigrants. We feel satisfied that Dr. O'Brien, Captain Cowan and his officers, the schoolmaster, matron, and constables, performed their several duties most faithfully. We have, &c, Colin Allan, . John Deysdale, M.D., l t . _, William Thomson. j ImmiS™tion Commissioners. His Honor the Superintendent of Otago.

No. 85. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 85.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 16th March, 1874. I have the honor to forward herewith copies of the report, with enclosures attached, of a Eoyal Commission issued by His Excellency the Governor to inquire into the origin, existence, and treatment of infectious disease on board the ship "Berar," on her recent voyage from London to Port Nicholson. I make no comment upon the recommendations of the Commissioners, which I have no doubt will meet with full consideration at your hands, but I desire to direct your attention to section 5 of the report, in whicli they allege that the ship was not in a fit state to receive the emigrants when they embarked. The same complaint has frequently been brought under the notice of the Government, and I would

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refer you upon this point to former correspondence, and especially to my predecessor's letters No. 224, of 22nd October, 1873, respecting the ship " The Douglas ;" No. 29, of the 7th May, 1874, respecting the " Woodlark;" and No. 180, of 29th June, 1874, respecting the "La Hogue." Although it does not appear that special instructions were given you in the matter, I regret no steps appear to have been taken to prevent their recurrence. I desire now that you will instruct your Despatching Officer not to embark the emigrants until the cargo of the ships is on board and the fittings completed. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 85. Eepoet of Eoyal Commission on Ship " Berar." May it please Yotte Excellency,— Wellington, Bth March, 1875. We, the Commissioners appointed to inquire into the origin, existence, and treatment of any infectious or other disease on board the ship " Berar" during her voyage from London to Port Nicholson, having proceeded to make the inquiry entrusted to us, and having taken evidence, have the honor to report that we have elicited the following facts: — 1. Scarlet fever was taken on board the ship by Alice Sophia C , a girl three years old, daughter of William and Mary Ann C , emigrants ; but whether contracted by her in the depot at Blackwall, or at the village from which she and her parents came, there was no evidence to show. 2. At tho time of passing the Inspecting Officer, the disease was in a state of incubation in this child, and had not sufficiently shown itself to enable a medical man, upon a cursory inspection, such as that described as having taken place on board the ship, to decide upon the nature of the disease. 3. Before embarkation there was no medical inspection whatever of the emigrants. 4. The surgeon-superintendent of the ship, although young and without experience, showed great perseverance and patience under most trying circumstances. 5. The ship was not in a fit state to receive the emigrants when they were embarked. It came out in the course of the evidence that the emigrants were embarked while the ship was still taking in cargo, with the hatches open, and the married people's compartment exposed to the weather, which was wet, thus making the deck and bunks damp and dirty, and in a condition to develop any latent disease. There was cargo still lying about the 'tween-decks, waiting to be stowed below, after the emigrants were on board, thus crowding them up and rendering it impossible for them to make any preliminary arrangements for their comfort during the voyage. Carpenters were also at work in the 'tween-decks, and the fittings were not completed until after the ship's arrival at Gravesend, being two days after the emigrants embarked. 6. The water supply fell off at times in quality, through the inefficiency of the condensing apparatus. It was only by persevering efforts and constant repairs that the necessity for calling in at some port on the voyage for a fresh supply of water was obviated. The evidence shows that, although the condenser itself was a new one, the boiler was second-hand, worn, and patched, and evidently unfit for the purpose to which it was applied. We are of opinion : — (I.) That the Inspecting Medical Officer should visit a depot containing emigrants at least once a day. Thus, having several opportunities of seeing the emigrants before embarkation, he would be in a position to weed out any suspicious cases, probably before the period when danger of infection had arrived. The system of cursory inspection after embarkation is totally insufficient and useless, as the time occupied by such inspection renders it impossible for it to be a searching one. In the present case, the C family had been in the depot for seven days prior to embarkation, and no medical man saw the child which took the sickness on board, although premonitory symptoms of illness had evidently shown themselves. If a daily visiting of the depot by the Inspecting Medical Officer had taken place, this child would not have been embarked, and probably such disastrous consequences would not have resulted. (II.) Previous medical service on board an emigrant ship should, in our opinion, be a sine qua non to employment as surgeon-superintendent of a ship conveying emigrants to this colony. We venture to suggest that a probationary voyage might be taken in the capacity of assistant-surgeon by young men desirous of undertaking the duties of surgeon-superintendent. The advantage of the assistance which would thus be rendered to the surgeon-superintendent in case of sickness on board, and of the presence of a substitute ready to take his place in case he should become incapacitated during the voyage, is obvious. The additional expense, which need not be great, would be more than compensated for by the existence of a staff of experienced officers, ready to take charge of the emigrant ships. (III.) The persons responsible for the state of the ship on its leaving the dock should be called rigidly to account for their laches in this respect. (IV.) A trial of at least twenty-four hours' full working should be the test required by the Inspector of every condensing apparatus placed on board an emigrant ship. We forward for the information of your Excellency the following documents:—Commission, copy of evidence taken.* (Signed) Alexandeb Johnston, M.D., Chairman, on behalf of the Commissioners. Governor the Most Hon. the Marquis of Normanby. * The evidence is presented in manuscript.

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No. 86. The Hon. W. H. Eeynolds to the Agent- Genebal. (No. 87.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 6th April, 1875. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter No. 47, of the 22nd January, in which you remark upon the Immigration Commissioners' report upon the ship " Gutenberg." I note your explanation as to the insufficient separation of the berths of the married people's compartment, and I am glad to observe that you have insisted that in all other vessels a proper division shall be made. I have, &c, William H. Eeynolds, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

No. 87. The Hon. W. H. Eeynolds to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 88.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 6th April, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " India," which arrived at Auckland upon the 3rd ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I have, &c, William H. Eeynolds, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 87. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "India." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, Bth March, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the " India " on the 3rd instant, ninety-eight days from London, with 163 Government immigrants. Very little sickness had been experienced on the voyage, and the passengers as a body expressed themselves favourably in respect to the treatment they had received. Two deaths occurred among the immigrants —a single man, twenty-one years of age, of phthisis ; and a child, eighteen months old, of diarrhoea. There was one birth. With the exception of the single men's compartment, the immigrants' quarters were found to be in a cleanly condition, and ventilation was fairly attended to. The circumstance that the single men's compartment was open to the bulk-head forward, between which and the hatchway there was considerable traffic in conveying rope, tar, coal, and similar stores on deck from time to time, may partly account for the less satisfactory state in which that compartment was found. But irrespective of this, it was complained of by the surgeon-superintendent that a portion of the single men were unwilling to properly exert themselves in carrying out his instructions, and doubtless this contributed not a little to the absence of neatness and order only too observable in this part of the ship. To enforce discipline, the rations of about half a dozen of the men were stopped on several occasions by direction of the doctor and captain conjointly, and this has since been made the subject of complaint by these immigrants to the Immigration Officer. The matter was inquired into on board the ship, and subsequently more minutely by the Immigration Officer, and from the information obtained we are satisfied that no more was required of the immigrants in this instance than was just and reasonable. The refusal on the part of two or three single men, who had paid their passage out, to engage in their turn to draw fresh water from the tanks, and carry a little coal for the supply of the condenser's engine, if allowed to pass with impunity, was calculated to set a bad example, and the steps taken to enforce discipline in this and one or two other instances were, we think, justifiable under the circumstances. The provisions of all kinds were of excellent quality, and the supplies in this department were abundant, with the exception of butter, which article is reported to have run short about ten days before arrival. The supply of medical comforts also, in several instances, was scarcely sufficient. Preserved milk, sago, arrowroot, and wine became exhausted more than a week before the close of the voyage. There was a plentiful supply of fresh water. The usual issue of preserved onions and carrots took place regularly, and these provisions appear to have been appreciated by the immigrants. On the whole, the importation by this ship bespeaks a fair selection to have been made among the several classes of labour represented, and there is every prospect that nearly all will speedily obtain employment. We beg to recommend payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent, and to the master, mate, and purser. We have, &c, H. Ellis, Immigration Officer. T. M. Philson, M.D., Health Officer. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington.

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No. 88. The Hon. W. H. Eeynolds to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 97.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 9th April, 1875. Eeferring to former correspondence relative to the ship " Scimitar," I now forward for your information copy of a correspondence which has taken place between the Under Secretary of the Department and Dr. Hosking, with regard to the discrepancies in that officer's statements before the Eoyal Commission in Dunedin and yourself in London. I may state that I have sent all the papers herein to the gentlemen who formed the Commission, for their remarks, which upon receipt shall be duly forwarded to you. I have, &c, William H. Eeynolds, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosures in No. 88. Dr. Hosking to the Undeb Secbetaby for Immigeation. Sib,— " Dallam Tower," Wellington, 22nd December, 1875. As I find that some misconception has arisen with regard to my evidence before the Eoyal Commission on the ship " Scimitar," and also in the matter of the statements I may have made before the Agent-General relative to the same ship, I have the honor to request that you will kindly favour me with the points upon which you require further information in writing. I will then endeavour to be as explicit as possible, and will gladly afford any information which the Government may require. 1 should esteem it a favour if you would cause me to be supplied with a copy of my evidence as taken down by the clerk at the time of the inquiry both here and at Home, together with any other papers and letters bearing on the subject which have not yet been supplied to me. I have, &c, William H. Hosking. C. E. Haughton, Esq., Under Secretary for Immigration, Wellington. The Undee Seceetaey for Immigeation to Dr. Hosking. Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 23rd March, 1875. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 22nd instant, in which you allude to a misconception you understand to have arisen with regard to your evidence before the Eoyal Commission upon the ship " Scimitar," and your statement relative to the same ship made before the Agent-General for the Colony in London, and request to be supplied with copies of your evidence as taken down by the Secretary of the Commission, and at the inquiry at Westminster Chambers. In reply, I am instructed by the Hon. the Minister for Immigration to enclose you copies of those portions of your evidence before the Commission, and of your statement before the Agent-General in London, which appear upon the face of them to be conflicting, and to request that you will afford an explanation, more especially with regard to your sworn evidence that " after the inspection by Dr. Eccles you had a long conversation with him as to the propriety of sending so many infected people, and also expressed your opinion that they should have been detained if practicable for isolation and treatment ashore until the epidemic had passed ; but that this was deemed by him and Mr. Smith as impracticable, and it was further urged that the mortality afloat would be no worse than if they remained ashore." I have, &c, W. H. Hosking, Esq., M.E.C.S., Wellington. C. E. Haughton. Dr. Hosking to the Undee Seceetaey for Immigeation. Gosford House, Mulgrave Street, Sic,— Wellington, 3rd April, 1875. I beg to render you my thanks for your letter and the copies of evidence therewith enclosed. With regard to the last part of your letter, requesting me "to afford some explanation respecting a portion of my evidence relating to a conversation after the inspection by Dr. Eccles," I will proceed to do so. That statement was made upon oath, or rather to the best of my belief at the time when it was made, nor do I wish to depart from it, except so far as to explain certain terms which the Government have, I fear, somewhat exaggerated in a direction contrary to what the actual words used imply, or as I intended them to be understood. It is true that I expressed an opinion that the emigrants should have been detained if practicable, more especially those proceeding per " Mongol," amongst whom it was well known that there had been several cases of fever—three on shore in the depot, and one family, at least, sent back from the ship ; but up to the time of the " Scimitar's" people going on board not one case was discoverable, and I was among them twice daily until they were embarked. The above suggestion was made or expressed after I knew that a suspicious case of scarlet fever had been discovered and removed from my ship by the Inspector, Dr. Eccles; and, though hopeful of getting away to sea with my people free of infectious disease up to this time, it was then that I, knowing that I had the unusual number of 165 children on board under my care, naturally enough gave utterance to the expression or opinion. At the same time it must be borne in mind that the only alternative was either to go to sea, or keep 750 people (ours notably clean, and the " Mongolians " notably the reverse) cooped up together in a close, damp, badly drained, and altogether unsuitable

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place, for so many people, with no means whatever for isolation, waiting for more cases to appear, which might or might not exist. It was shown by Dr. Eccles, conclusively I think, that there was no accommodation for the possible sick, either in the Plymouth or depot hospitals or elsewhere, save in private lodgings in a densely populated town, with a certainty of the infection spreading to a greater extent; and if you consult the statistics in England for the past two years, you will find that we were (taking the precautions which we did) justified in going to sea, as the percentage of deaths from fever treated on board was below the average of the same disease treated in England. Again, the next question would have been, How long were they to be detained—a week, month, or even more? —and then, after all, with a certainty of an outbreak as at first starting. In the Hon. the Premier's letter 29th June, 1874, No. 181, in paragraph 2,1 note the words, " The ship was sent to sea with the seeds of infection notoriously on board." Now this might, perhaps, be well applied to the case of the " Mongol," but not by any means to the " Scimitar," and is not borne out by my evidence, as the only suspicious case was detected amongst them on board the ship at the inspection, and at once removed ; and so far as I or anyone else knew, the regulations were fully complied with, as there were no further signs of infectious diseases amongst the emigrants, and Dr. Eccles, under the circumstances, could not do otherwise than pass them. In paragraph 3, the words " strongly urged " do not appear in my evidence, I having only simply expressed an opinion, or rather suggested, that the emigrants, collectively, per " Scimitar" and " Mongol," should, if practicable, be detained for a time ; but it was proved to be impracticable. Eespecting my evidence implicating Mr. Smith, the only matter I have now any clear remembrance of is my request or recommendation to him that the three families, should be kept back as they were so manifestly infected, two of these having been sent outside the depot into lodgings for treatment before I came down to Plymouth, and one young man was removed from among them on the very morning the " Mongol's " passengers went on board, by Dr. Eccles, on my report of the case to him. Two or three young men and women, of the same family, were suffering from headaches and sore throats, one of whom, who accompanied me to Mr. Smith, and begged that they might be left behind with the rest, was flatly refused, Mr. Smith asking me if I could state that it was positively scarlet fever they were suffering from, which I refused to do. He then said, " They must all go." I met this young man in Dunedin, and I believe Dr. Davidson will well remember the circumstance also. I would wish to draw your attention to the fact that it was no part of my duty or appointment to visit the depot at all. I merely went there to oblige Mr. Smith at his request, as the ships were delayed ; and also on my own account, as taking an interest in the welfare of the people who were so soon to bo placed in my charge, and without the least intention of assuming any responsibility until they were formally handed over to my charge on board, according to regulations and appointment. Moreover, it is simply impossible for me now to remember all the petty details of all that passed whilst there. I have, &c, William H. Hosking. C. E. Haughton, Esq., Secretary for Immigration, Wellington.

No. 89. The Hon. W. H. Eeynolds to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 98.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 9th April, 1875. I have the honor to forward the following documents relative to the ship " Dallam Tower," which arrived at Port Nicholson ou the 17th ultimo :— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Commissioners' supplementary report. 3. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 4. Memorandum addressed to the Under Secretary by the Immigration Officer for Wellington, relative to tho conduct of the surgeon-superintendent upon the voyage. 5. Certified list of births and deaths. I have to direct your attention to the memorandum by the Immigration Officer to the Under Secretary, relative to the conduct of the surgeon-superintendent. It will bo for yourself to consider whether, under the circumstances set forth, it is desirable that ho should again be employed as surgeonsuperintendent of emigrant ships. I have, &c, William H. Eeynolds, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 89. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Dallam Tower." Sic,— Wellington, 30th March, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Dallam Tower," on the 17th inst., with 254J- statute adult immigrants. There were no births, and nine deaths, equal to 2\ statute adults, during the voyage. Of the 257 statute adults embarked in London, 138 were for this province, and 119 for the Province of Otago, these latter being forwarded to their destination on the 22nd by the s.s. "Taranaki." On inspecting tho vessel we found her roomy, lofty, and well ventilated. The advantage of securing vessels of this description and sending a comparatively small number of immigrants in them, is apparent from the low death rate during the voyage. The single men were berthed forward in the 'tween-decks;

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the married people in two different compartments, the access to one compartment being by the main hatch and to the other by the after hatch ; in this compartment the bunks were on each side of the vessel, with a wide passage up the centre. The single women were berthed under the fore part of the poop: their compartment was roomy and comfortable but badly ventilated, the principal means of ventilation being through a hospital. Had they been located in the 'tween-decks, and the compartment under the poop used as hospitals, dispensary, and issuing-room, a great deal of unpleasantness and inconvenience during the voyage would have been obviated. There was a gutter-way round the 'tween-decks of this the vessel, which we have before stated to be objectionable. If it had been boarded over, a great deal of noxious effluvium, the existence of which the surgeon frequently refers to in his journal, would have been prevented, for it is obvious that if filth of all descriptions is allowed to run down a gutter-way into the bilge, no amount of pumping will thoroughly carry away all the sediment which is certain to accumulate. There were three hospitals in this vessel —two on deck, and one in the 'tween-decks under the main hatch. The hospital under the poop was in the single women's compartment, and the bunks were inconveniently placed athwartships. The other hospital on deck was next the galley and condenser, and therefore exceedingly warm : the bunks here were also athwartships, while the hospital in the 'tweendecks was without direct ventilation, the only scupper in it having to be stopped on account of leakage. With reference to the hospitals we would direct attention to the surgeon's remarks, which are appended. The galley and condenser were exceedingly good, and if a little forethought had been exercised the " Dallam Tower" might have been made far more comfortable than any immigrant vessel which we have yet inspected. Prom a perusal of the surgeon's diary, we find that the charcoal ran out on the 24th December, the expenditure having only commenced on the 18th, during very damp weather, which necessitated the constant use of the stoves in the 'tween-decks. There were no wind sails, neither were there tarpaulins for the hatches in wet weather. There were also constant complaints during the greater part of the voyage as to the inferior quality of the bread, which appears to have been caused not only from the incapacity of the baker, but also by the bad flour supplied to him. In conclusion, we would remark that no complaints were made to us by any of the immigrants; and so far as we were able to judge from our inspection, everything was carried out satisfactorily during the voyage. A short summary by the surgeon-superintendent is appended. Alexandeb Johnston, M.D., ~\ H. J. H. Eliott, > Commissioners. John Holliday, ) His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington.

No. 90. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 102.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 12th April, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship "Baron Aberdare," which arrived at Auckland upon the L9th ultimo : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I desire your special attention to the Commissioners' report, and more particularly to their remarks relative to the position of emigrants who pay their own passages, and to the appointment of tho matron, matters which appear to me to require attention in the manner indicated by the Commissioners. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. William H. Eeynolds.

Enclosure in No. 90. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on " Baron Aberdare." Sic,- — Immigration Office, Auckland, 24th March, 1875. We have tho honor to report the arrival of the ship " Baron Aberdare" late on the evening of the 19th instant, 100 days from London, with 164 Government immigrants on board. The usual inspection of the ship and passengers was made by us on the following morning. No infectious disease was reported, and only one death took place during the voyage —an infant nine months old, of atrophy. There were two births. The passengers generally expressed themselves satisfied with the treatment they had received, two persons only complaining of an insufficient measure of medical comforts during a term of illness, which, on further inquiry, resolved itself into a question of professional judgment on the part of the surgeonsuperintendent, who, in this instance, considered that the parties had received every necessary attention. The biscuit provided for the immigrants, though not originally of inferior quality, yet owing to a quantity having been packed in bags instead of in casks, a considerable proportion of this article^rad become deteriorated, thereby causing a good deal of dissatisfaction. The flour also was defective in quality, the sample of broad shown us produced from it being very inferior. The baking appears to have been frequently mismanaged, partly through want of skill, and partly in consequence of a defect in the heating power of the oven. . Too much stress can hardly be laid upon the necessity of providing an efficient cook and baker on board immigrant ships on a long voyage, and also on the desirableness of ascertaining if possible, before leaving port, how far the baking and cooking apparatus are in fair working order. Inattention to this, in some instances, has been the occasion of much dissatisfaction. B—D. 3.

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The tea shown was inferior to what has been heretofore provided. The stock of medical comforts was barely sufficient to meet actual requirements, especially the supply of preserved milk, which ran short at a comparatively early stage of the voyage, namely, when the ship was a little over two months at sea. The surgeon-superintendent complained also of the medicine chest beiug insufficiently furnished in several particulars. In all other respects the provisions were of excellent quality, and the supply abundant. There was a sufficiency of fresh water at all times. The accommodation for passengers on board the " Baron Aberdare" is very superior. The immigrants' compartments were well lighted and ventilated, and the condition of each in respect to cleanliness and good order at the time of arrival was all that could be desired. It would be well if those persons among the immigrants who pay their own passage money were informed, prior to embarkation, of their liability to conform, in common with others, to the regulations in respect to certain duties required of the immigrants on the voyage, such as carrying in their turn water for the use of the immigrants' galley, and assisting in other ways for the general good. Misunderstandings on this ground have arisen in a few instances, in the case of several ships lately arrived here, calling for the enforcement of discipline which otherwise might not have been needed, and occasioning more or less disagreeableness among the immigrants. Several of the ship's crew, with three of the immigrants, were given in custody of the police, on arrival, by Captain Edmonds, on a charge of broaching the ship's stores. Their case has not yet been fully heard before the Magistrates. The immigrants by this ship appear to be a fair selection. Their conduct on the passage, with a few exceptions, is spoken of favourably by the surgeon-superintendent. We would recommend a discontinuance of the practico of appointing young unmarried women to the post of matron. Such persons, however excellent themselves, usually are unable to command the necessary authority over a large number of young girls for the preservation of discipline and good order on the voyage. We beg to recommend payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superintendent, and to the master, mate, and purser. We have, &c, H. Ellis. T. M. Philson, M.D. I. J. Buegess. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington.

No. 91. The Hon. W. H. Eeynolds to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 103.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 12th April, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to tho ship " Fritz Eeuter, " which arrived at Napier upon the 18th ultimo :— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Immigration Officer's report. 3. Surgeon-Superintendent's report. 4. Certified list of births and deaths. I have to call your attention to the minute of His Honor the Superintendent, relative to the young men who were taken from the Hamburg Eeformatory, and would suggest that you should obtain from your agent an explanation of the matter. I have, &c., W. H. Eeynolds, (in the absence of the Minister for Immigration). The Agent-General for New Zealand, London.

Enclosure in No. 91. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Fritz Eeuter." Sic, — Immigration Office, Napier, 30th March, 1875. I have the honor to inform you that the ship " Fritz Eeuter " arrived close to the roadstead on the 17th instant, but a heavy gale of wind springing up she was blown out to sea, and did not reach the roadstead until towards the evening of the 18th instant. It being late, and finding from the replies received that there had been several cases of scarlatina and low fever on board, and four cases of the latter still under treatment, the Commissioners thought it advisable to place the ship in quarantine. At 8 o'clock next morning the Health Officer, Dr. Hitchings, was put on board ; and having conferred with the doctor of the ship, and made a medical supervision, he reported the sickness to be four cases of low fever of a mild form—in reality, he might say the patients were convalescent. On learning this the Commissioners boarded the ship, and proceeded to carry out their instructions. The Commissioners have much pleasure in reporting the ship in a first-class condition, being very lofty between decks, and having ample accommodation for the immigrants. The provisions were unexceptionable, and the immigrants expressed themselves perfectly satisfied with the treatment they had received from the captain, doctor, and officers of the ship. The Commissioners beg to convey their thanks, through you, to Mr. Friberg for his valuable assistance in interpreting the numerous questions and replies necessary in such a strict investigation as the Commissioners are instructed to institute.

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The immigrants are healthy-looking. Pive births occurred during the voyage, and thirteen deaths —three adults, six children, and four infants. I have, &c, G. T. Fannin, (Immigration Commissioner and Secretary to Commissioners). The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington.

No. 92. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 114.) Sic,— Immigration Office, Wellington, 6th May, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " William Davie," which vessel arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 22nd ultimo: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. Tou will be pleased to learn the Commissioners have reported very favourably on this ship. I have, See., The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 92. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "William Davie." Sib,— Port Chalmers, 23rd April, 1875. We have the honor to report that the ship "William Davie" arrived in port from London on the 22nd instant, having made a long passage of 102 days. Her immigrants number 163 souls, equal to 141 statute adults. Seven deaths occurred on the passage, the deaths being among children of tender age, excepting one adult, who died of consumption. The surgeon-superintendent attributes the mortality among the children to colds contracted in the depot at Blackwall, and to the subsequent cold and stormy weather encountered during the early part of the voyage. On inspecting the ship we found the several compartments very clean and comfortable. The single women occupied the fore part of the poop, which contained, besides the matron's cabin, bath-room and watercloset. This compartment is ventilated by a skylight and six side-scuttles. The married and single men occupied the 'tween-decks from the after hatchway, both compartments being divided by a bulk-head. The ventilation issued from the deck, and was satisfactory. The schoolmaster, matron, and constables, under the superintendence of Dr. Smith, performed their respective duties satisfactorily. The immigrants, on being asked the usual questions, were unanimous in their expression of their satisfaction with the treatment they had received on the voyage. The new scale of provisions lately approved of by the Agent-General appeared to give general satisfaction. The children's stores were daily served out as the surgeon directed. We are satisfied that the provisions of the Passengers Act were fully complied with, and that Dr. Smith, the surgeon-superintendent, Captain McAllister, and his officers fulfilled their several duties most faithfully, and are entitled to the gratuities assigned to them. We have, &c, Colin Allan, ~) T John Deysdale, M.D., f Emigration His Honor the Superintendent of Otago. Wm. Thomson, ) Commissioners.

No. 93. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 126.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 29th May, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Fernglen," which arrived at Auckland upon the 29th April last: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I am pleased to observe the exceedingly satisfactory character of the Commissioners' report. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 93. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Fernglen." Sic, — Immigration Office, Auckland, 3rd May, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival on the 29th ultimo of the " Fernglen," after a somewhat tedious passage of 115 days from London, bringing nominally 187 Government immigrants, equal to 155 statute adults. Six children died during the voyage, chiefly of bronchitis and hooping-cough. There were no births. The actual number landed, therefore, was 181 souls, amounting to 154 statute adults. No infectious disease had visited the ship, and the passengers generally expressed themselves

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in terms of entire satisfaction with the treatment they had received. As on several previous occasions, the quality of the bread was complained of, not because of any inferiority in the ingredients, but owing to unskilful handling on the part of the baker. Various efforts were made during the voyage to remedy this defect, but only with indifferent success. The provisions generally, including sea biscuit, were all of excellent quality, and the supply was abundant. The same may be said in respect to medical comforts, and the supply and quality of fresh water. The accommodation for immigrants in this ship between decks is all that could bo desired. The ventilation was sufficient, and the respective compartments presented an appearance of cleanliness and order in the highest degree creditable alike to the immigrants, the ship's officers, and the surgeon-superintendent. The people by the " Fernglen" appear to be a very fair selection, and their general conduct is favourably spoken of by the officer in charge. We have pleasure in recommending payment of the usual gratuities to the surgeon-superin-tendent, and to the master, mate, and purser. We have, &c, H. Ellis. I. J. Bubgess. Chaeles F. Goldsbeo, M.D. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington.

No. 94. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 127.) Sic,— Immigration Office, Wellington, 29th May, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the " Edwin Fox," which arrived in Port Nicholson upon the 18th May instant: — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. Tou will be pleased to note the very satisfactory character of the Commissioners' report. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 94. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Edwin Fox." Sic,— Wellington, 29th April, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival[of the ship " Edwin Pox " on the 18th instant, with 214-a- statute adults. There were six births and six deaths, equal to three statute adults, during the voyage. The vessel arrived in very good order, and the 'tween-decks were clean and well ventilated. The single men had a roomy compartment forward, their bunks being in blocks, but without alleyways. The married people had the use of the after and main hatches, their bunks being upon the same plan as in the single men's compartment. There were two objections to this compartment—viz. the close proximity of the piggery to the main hatch, and the presence in the 'tween-decks of a number of birds in cages which belonged to one of the immigrants. We were particularly struck with the healthy aud robust appearance of the young children, especially those born on board: this we attribute to the increased allowance of dietary for infants, especially the condensed milk. The single women were located in a portion of the saloon, and the after part of the 'tween-decks had an entrance direct from the poop to their compartment, which was found to be of very great advantage in preserving order and discipline during the voyage: they had plenty of light and ventilation, and their compartment was in good order. The hospitals and dispensary were all under the poop, being convenient, roomy, and well ventilated. The galley and condenser were good, one improvement being that a great portion of the cooking was done by steam from the condenser. The ladders and hatchways were very much improved, and we are pleased to say that the fittings and arrangements generally of the " Edwin Fox " were quite as good, and in some respects better than in larger and more modern vessels. The immigrants appear to be a respectable and well-conducted class of people, and they all expressed themselves well satisfied with their treatment during the voyage. A short extract from the journal of the surgeon-superintendent is appended. In conclusion, we have much pleasure in recommending the payment of all gratuities, and in bearing our testimony to the efficient and zealous manner in which Surgeon-Superintendent Tighe (who has now made three voyages to this colony in charge of immigrants) and Captain Davics performed their duties. We have, &c, Alexandeb Johnston, M.D., ~) H. J. H. Eliott, > Commissioners. John Holliday, ) His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington.

No. 95. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 134.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 31st May, 1875. I have the honor to inform you that I referred your letters No. 1692 and 2002, of 20th October and 23rd December respectively, upon the subject of the Eeport of the Eoyal Commission

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on the "Scimitar," together with the various letters enclosed therein, to the members of the Commission for their information, and I now transmit copy of a letter I have received from them in reply, in which they state that " upon the whole we see no reason for varying the opinions expressed in our report, or modifying the recommendations made." As it appears to me that no advantage will be gained by a continuance of the correspondence upon this subject, I beg you to consider it closed with this communication. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 95. Ftjethee Eepoet of Eoyal Commission on Ship "Scimitar." Sic, — Dunedin, 6th May, 1875. We, the Commissioners appointed in the case of the ship " Scimitar," have perused the letters of the Agent-General and the various papers accompanying them, which have been forwarded to us, and upon the whole we seen no reason for varying the opinions expressed in our report, or modifying the recommendations made. Dr. Hosking's evidence was frankly given here, while everything must have been fresh in his recollection. His statement made before the Commissioners was written by the clerk at the time, and then and there read over to and signed by the witness. The Commissioners were therefore justified in founding upon it, and are now warranted in refusing to set it aside because the witness's recollection of what he said became afterwards defective. An additional lapse of time took place, whereby the vivid reminiscences of an arduous voyage may have been toned down, and it is not unlikely that the fear of giving offence in London may have operated on his mind in inducing him to make the denial the Agent-General reports he did. Whatever he may deny now, there is'no doubt that the evidence signed by him is exactly as it was voluntarily given before the Commissioners. 2. It appears to the Commissioners that the Agent-General has taken up a wrong position in this matter. There is no getting rid of the fact of the unusual amount of sickness and mortality on board the "Scimitar," occurring in unusually favourable circumstances as regards qualifications of ship and officers, as well as a quick passage. The Commissioners, from the evidence they had before them, attributed this to (1) the large number on board, (2) imperfect ventilation, and (3) unsuitable dietary for children, having aggravated any latent tendency to disease ; and had no hesitation in recommending, as the chief preventives in_the future, an efficient medical examination, (1) before acceptance, and (2) on entry at the depot. The evidence" of various witnesses goes to establish that the medical examination is not what it ought to be. Captain Fox says that one-third of the immigrants were a " puny lot," and that more care should be exercised in the selection. The Commissioners consider that there is unfortunately abundance of evidence to show the want of proper care in the selection and shipment of the immigrants. The argument used by the Agent-General, and drawn from the state of the health of England generally, may be turned the other way. Admitted that the facts shown by the Eegistrar-GeneraPs returns are correct, do they not point to this, that in such a low condition of the general health of the country greater than usual care was under the circumstances necessary in the selection and medical examination, to obviate the mischief likely to follow ? We see no reason to change our opinion that more care was advisable in the case of the " Scimitar" than was exercised, and the sanitary condition of England at the time does but confirm us in that opinion. 3. Of course it will not be considered for a moment that we presumed to throw any reflection on the Agent-General or his department. We had the benefit of obtaining a knowledge of results here unknown to him, which led us to form the conclusions at which we arrived, and to make the recommendations we did. These were made with the view solely of advantage to the colony in the future conduct of immigration, and we naturally expected that these recommendations would be heartily supported by the Agent-General instead of being opposed or repudiated. Whatever view the Agent-General, in the discharge of his duty to the colony, may take of the matter, there is no getting rid of the facts proved leading to the opinions already formed, and we have to deplore generally that a number of worthless characters, as well as criminals, lunatics, paupers, prostitutes, and diseased persons, have been landed in this province as free immigrants, the majority of whom would have been at once rejected if there had been a careful selection and thorough medical examination in the first instance. It is a positive fact that the names of certain ships have become a by-word, and create a laugh in the Police Courts. The circumstances have led to some of the immigrants denying they came out by the notorious vessels. We have, &c, John Bathgate. A. Chetham Stbode. The Hon. the Minister for Immigration, Wellington. Thos. Mobland Hocken.

No. 96. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 137.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, Ist June, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Cicero," which arrivedjat Lyttelton upon 19th May:— 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Surgeon-superintendent's report. 3. Certified list of births and deaths.

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The reports, lam glad to observe, are generally of a satisfactory character; but there are several matters in which the Commissioners remark that improvement would be desirable, and to these I shall be glad if you will call the attention of the Despatching Officer. I would especially refer to the incompetence of the matron, as this is not the first complaint which has been made by various Boards of Commissioners relative to the appointment of persons manifestly unfit to fill this office. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 96. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Cicero." The Commissioners report the arrival of this ship on the 19th instant, after a passage of 107 days. The health of the immigrants had been good throughout the voyage. There were two births, but no deaths amongst the immigrants. All the compartments were exceedingly clean, and the conditions of the charter appeared to have been faithfully carried out. The new dietary scale gave general satisfaction. The only complaint made was with respect to the flour —this was tested, and found to be inferior. The bath-room in the single women's compartment had given satisfaction; it was found necessary, however, to close the closet, in consequence of its proximity to the married people's quarters. The Commissioners recommend that in future tho bath-room and closet should be fixed as far aft as possible, and so elevated that the baths after using can be emptied without the necessity of pumping the water out. It would also be advantageous for the pipes that supply water to the closets from the condenser tank to be protected. Tho padlocks supplied for the lanterns were found to be useless, and affording no protection against interference with the lights; the store-room padlocks were equally inefficient. The distilling apparatus (Graveley's) had worked well throughout the passage. The Commissioners again desire to record their opinion that it is very undesirable for paid passengers to be classed and berthed with Government immigrants. The immigrants spoke in high terms of the care and attention shown to them by the surgeon-superintendent and officers of the ship. The matron appointed was very incompetent and quite unfitted for the post, as she rendered very little assistance. Her gratuity is withheld. The Commissioners recommend payment of the other gratuities, and the further employment of the surgeon-superintendent should ho desire it. Wm. Donald. John P. Eouse. Lyttelton, 22nd May, 1875. J. E. Maech.

No. 97. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 141.) Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 4th June, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of the following documents relative to the ship " Wennington," which arrived at Port Chalmers upon the 18th of May : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. I note with pleasure the exceedingly favourable character of the Commissioners' report. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 97. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship " Wennington." Sic,— Port Chalmers, 19th May, 1875. The ship "Wennington," with Government immigrants, arrived in port on the 18th May, having made a passage of 105 days from Plymouth. Her immigrants number 132 souls, equal to 110 statute adults. There were two births and two deaths, the latter being an^nfant five days old, and an aged woman, who was coming to the colony to join her friends. The general health of the immigrants was good through the voyage. Our inspection of the ship proved most satisfactory. The compartments were admirably fitted, and a perfect picture of cleanliness and comfort beyond any ship we ever had the pleasure of inspecting in our official capacity. The immigrants expressed themselves as fully satisfied with their treatment. The provisions were good and abundant, and the condenser worked well. We have much pleasure in bearing our testimony to the efficient manner in which Captain Winder and his officers, Dr. Marr (surgeon-superintendent), the schoolmaster, matron, and constables performed their respective duties during the voyage. We have, &c, Colin Allan, ") t__- v John Deysdale, M.D., Migration Wm. Thomson, ) Commissioners. His Honor the Superintendent, Otago.

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No. 98. The Hon. 11. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 143.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 2nd June, 1875. I have the honor to transmit herewith the following documents relative to the ship " Tintern Abbey," which arrived at Lyttelton upon the 3rd ultimo : — 1. Preliminary report of the Commissioners, pending an inquiry into certain complaints made by the immigrants. 2. Commissioners' final report, covering the surgeon's statement with regard to the complaints, his report upon the voyage, and extracts from his journal. 3. Certified list of births and deaths. The complaints of the immigrants as to the conduct of the surgeon-superintendent appear to me to have been fully and satisfactorily disposed of by that gentleman ; but it is to be regretted that there is apparently so much foundation for what has been alleged with regard to the embarkation of the emigrants before the ship was properly fitted to receive them, the condition of the condenser, the quality of the plumbers' work, the stowage of the stores, and the incapacity of the person appointed to act as matron—these being all matters which have so often been the subject of complaint by surgeonsuperintendents, and of remonstrance on the part of Immigration Commissioners and of this department. I may say, indeed, that the circumstances generally attending the despatch and voyage of this ship, as reported to me, appear most unsatisfactory ; and so far as they are in any way within the responsibility of your department, I desire that you will cause inquiry to be made, and report the conclusion you arrive at. I would specially notice that Mr. Smith, in his memorandum to you of 9th January, remarks that on going on board the day after the emigrants were embarked, he found " a great many things required to be done to put the vessel in a fit state to go to sea." As the charterparty requires that the ship shall be completely ready for sea twenty-four hours before the passengers embark, I am at a loss to understand why the emigrants were hurried on board at Gravesend instead of being detained in the depot, the shipping company being liable for the expense of their maintenance from the date upon which the ship had been appointed to sail. I have caused a letter to be sent to Dr. Dunkley, informing him that the Government consider him exonerated from all blame in connection with the complaints of the immigrants, and I shall be glad to hear of his receiving the charge of another emigrant ship, should he be inclined to apply for it. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosures in No. 98. Peeliminaey Eepoet of Immigeation Commissionebs on Ship "Tintern Abbey." The Commissioners beg to report the arrival of the above ship at the port of Lyttelton, on Monday the 3rd instant, after a passage of 115 days. This ship embarked 323 souls, equal to 270 statute adults. During the passage there have been six births, and seventeen deaths, equal to five and a half statute adults. Two children, who are included in the ship's book, named Morris and John Flannery, died at the depot at Blackwall. The mortality has been principally amongst the children, many of whom appear to have been in a sickly state on embarkation. The immigrants complained generally of the want of proper accommodation at the depot at Blackwall, and from their statements it would appear that the building was very much over-crowded during the time they were located there. It also appears that this ship was not properly prepared to receive the emigrants when they were ordered to embark. The decks are reported to have been exceedingly wet, and the fittings were not completed. The cooking apparatus had not worked satisfactorily, and the condenser would only distil 200 gallons in twelve hours. The provisions were reported as good, but grave complaints were made that the children's dietary was not served out to them during the first week of the passage, and that the issue was very irregular. A general complaint was made that the surgeon-superintendent had not properly attended to his duties, and several of the parents attributed tho deaths of their children to neglect. The surgeon was present at the inspection, and the Commissioners have sent a copy of the complaints to him, with the view of giving him tho fullest opportunity of explaining the charges brought against him by the emigrants. For the present the gratuities to the officers are withheld. Wm. Donald, ") T . . n Lyttelton, 7th May, 1875. J. E. Maech, j Emigration Commissioners. Final Eepoet of Immigeation Commissionebs on Ship "Tintern Abbey." Eepeeeing to the preliminary report made on this ship, the Commissioners have now to state that they have fully investigated the complaints made by the immigrants, and are of opinion that the explanation offered by the surgeon-superintendent, in reference to charges brought against him, is satisfactory ; the Commissioners are also of opinion that the complaints are without foundation, or that the facts have been greatly exaggerated. The surgeon appears to have had no assistance rendered him by any of the officers of the ship, with the exception of the captain, who, however, had no previous experience with emigrants, not having had the command of an emigrant ship before. The ship is reported to have been built at Quebec, and sent to Liverpool to be fitted. In the passage round to London she was delayed longer than expected, and her emigrants were thus waiting some considerable time at the depot at Blackwall. Here the accommodation (owing to over-crowding) appears to have been very insufficient. It was reported to the Commissioners that families, including infant children, were placed in out-buildings, cold, damp, and draughty. Inflammation of the lungs amongst the children became general, and three died from those causes before the ship sailed. It was further reported that the bread supplied in the depot was exceedingly bad.

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The stores seem to have been placed on board in a very hurried manner, the store room indifferently constructed, the stowage bad, and the storekeeper appointed quite incompetent. The plumbing work in the single women's compartment soon got out of order, and the solder placed on board was so inferior that it was found impossible to repair the plumbing with it. The matron appointed was in no way qualified to have the charge of single women, for instead of endeavouring to. prevent familiarity between them and the single men and crew, she rather encouraged it. The Commissioners attach to this report the reply from the surgeon-superintendent to the complaints made on board, his report on the voyage, and extracts from his journal. The Commissioners recommend the captain and surgeon only for gratuities. Wm. Donald, ") T ~ n Lyttelton, 15th May, 1875. . J. E. Maech, { Emigration Commissioners.

No. 99. The Hon. H. A. Atkinson to the Agent-Geneeal. (No. 149.) Sib, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 7th June, 1875. I have the honor to transmit the following documents relative to the ship " Hindostan," which arrived at Wellington upon the 22nd May : — 1. Immigration Commissioners' report. 2. Certified list of births and deaths. With regard to the remarks of the Commissioners affecting tho conduct of the captain, upon a careful consideration of all the circumstances I am led to the conclusion that what is complained of was a fault of manner on his part, rather than any intentional discourtesy or desire in any way to obstruct them in the performance of their duty. I did not therefore consider any inquiry necessary into the matter, and authorised the payment of his gratuity. I may further observe that I have given Captain Gregory the opportunity of perusing the report, and have assured him that those portions of it reflecting especially upon his conduct to the Commissioners, as he had not the opportunity of making an official explanation, shall not be made public. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. H. A. Atkinson.

Enclosure in No. 99. Immigeation Commissionebs' Eepoet on Ship "Hindostan." Sic, — Immigration Office, Wellington, 27th May, 1875. We have the honor to report the arrival of the ship " Hindostan " on the 22nd instant, with 157 statute adults. There was one birth, and one death—a child twelve months old —during the voyage. The vessel anchored about half-past 5 p.m., and she was immediately boarded by us, we having been on the look-out for her during the afternoon. We had arranged to inspect the immigrants and vessel on Sunday afternoon, and land the passengers on the following day, Monday, the 24th ; but after the manner in which the captain received us, we determined upon not going outside our strict official duty, and we therefore did not inspect the vessel till Tuesday, the 25th instant, after which the immigrants were at once landed. The single women were berthed under the after-hatch ; they had a splendid entrance to their compartment through a high deck-house, which was found very convenient, it being the only means of ventilation in the compartment. The bunks were in blocks, and the compartment was very clean and sweet; but it appeared to us rather dark—in fact we have the same remark to make with all the compartments in this vessel. The hospital was in the compartment, and was poorly ventilated. The married people were under the main-hatch; their bunks were in blocks, without alley-ways. The hospital was on one side of the hatchway, and the dispensary and issuing-room on the other. The ladders were very good, but we would suggest that the steps should be fluted, or a small batten nailed along each step, to prevent persons slipping. One passenger had his leg broken by slipping on the ladder. We cannot say anything in favour of the hospital in this compartment. There was only one good hospital in the vessel, and that is what was termed the " male hospital," on deck. We were pleased to hear, however, that there had not been much necessity for hospital accommodation. The tinware generally was bad: in fact, this is a standing complaint in every ship, and, owing to the leakage from the vessels in which the immigrants keep their drinking-water, the 'tween-decks are constantly kept in a state of dampness. The single men were berthed under the fore-hatch : their compartment was clean. The galley was particularly clean and convenient. The greatest fault we have to find with the vessel is the darkness of the compartments, but as the 'tween-decks were very high, and each passenger had much more cubical space than is required by the Passenger Act, no evil consequences resulted. The passengers appeared to us to be a healthy and robust lot of people, and we find that the surgeon-superintendent speaks well of them in the extract from his diary which is attached. They all spoke in praise of the captain and surgeon, giving them both three hearty cheers when asked if they had any statements to make with reference to the voyage. * * * * We have, &c, Alex. Johnston, M.D. H. J. H. Eliott. His Honor the Superintendent, Wellington. John Holliday. * The remainder of this report is not published, vide the letter to the Agent-General. By Authority: Geoboe Didsbobt, Government Printer, Wellington.—lB7s. Price 2s. 3d.]

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IMMIGRATION TO NEW ZEALAND. (LETTERS TO THE AGENT-GENERAL, TRANSMITTING REPORTS UPON IMMIGRANT SHIPS.), Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1875 Session I, D-03

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IMMIGRATION TO NEW ZEALAND. (LETTERS TO THE AGENT-GENERAL, TRANSMITTING REPORTS UPON IMMIGRANT SHIPS.) Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1875 Session I, D-03

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IMMIGRATION TO NEW ZEALAND. (LETTERS TO THE AGENT-GENERAL, TRANSMITTING REPORTS UPON IMMIGRANT SHIPS.) Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1875 Session I, D-03

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IMMIGRATION TO NEW ZEALAND. (LETTERS TO THE AGENT-GENERAL, TRANSMITTING REPORTS UPON IMMIGRANT SHIPS.) Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1875 Session I, D-03

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IMMIGRATION TO NEW ZEALAND. (LETTERS TO THE AGENT-GENERAL, TRANSMITTING REPORTS UPON IMMIGRANT SHIPS.) Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1875 Session I, D-03

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