D.—2.

29

Enclosure 2 in No. 45. Mr. Smith to Messrs. Shaw, Savill, and Co. Deae Sies, — 7, Westminster Chambers, London, S.W., 17th March, 1876. 1 shall feel obliged by your informing me how the emigrants' stores were stowed in the " British Empire," and whether, in getting access to any of them, it was necessary to lift the hatches in the single women's compartment; and, if so, what portion of the stores were so stowed. I have, &c, Messrs. Shaw, Savill, and Co. E. A. Smith.

Enclosure 3 in No. 45. Messrs. Shaw, Sayill, and Co. to Mr. Smith. Deae Sic,— 34, Leadenhall Street, London, E.C., 22nd March, 1876, We duly received your favour, and, after making inquiries relative to the " British Empire," we find that the emigrants' stores were all stowed in the 'tween-decks before the main hatch, with the exception of the salt provisions, which were in the fore-hold, and the water, part of which was in the fore-hold and part in the after-hold, stowed in the after-hatch as usual. We are, &c., (pro Shaw, Savill, and C 0.,) E. A. Smith, Esq., 7, Westminster Chambers, S.W. John G-beenway.

By Authority : Geokoe Didsbtjrt, Government Printer, Wellington. —1876. Price Ib. 3d.]