A.-4.

Melbourne, Ist March 1880. Your Excellency, 1. I have the honor to submit, for the consideration of Your Excellency and your Government, a Eeport upon the Defences of New Zealand. 2. I desire to acknowledge the ready assistance, that has been afforded me by the officers of the several departments of the Government concerned in the object of my enquiry, together with the valuable information which I have received from the officials of the Harbor Boards of the ports visited by me. 3. As some time must elapse before a decision can be come to in reference to the recommendations contained in the Report, it is desirable, in order to save time, that I should be authorized to proceed with the preparation of the necessary plans for the batteries, which I propose should be erected at the several ports. 4. With regard to the other steps that may become necessary, to give effect to the decision of the Government on the whole subject of defence, I shall be glad to act as its adviser in the matter. I have the honor to be, Your Excellency's most obedient servant, P. H. SCRATCHLEY, Colonel R.E. His Excellency Sir Hercules Robinson, G.C.M.G., &c, &c, &c, Governor and Commander-in-Chief, New Zealand. a 2