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I am directed to report that the Committee are of opinion that the recommendation of the Eoyal Commissioners, Messrs. Haultain and Williams, in the petitioner's case be given effect to, as a full settlement of all his claims against the colony 29th July, 1881.

No. 54.—Petition of G-eoege Maundee, of Eangitikei. The petitioner states that he is an owner of land at Eangitikei; that on the 27th day of August, 1879, he was summoned for the highway rates, amounting to £18 155., to appear on the Bth of the same month ; he treated the summons as a nullity, but tendered the amount to the Collector, who refused to take it without the costs ; a distress warrant was then issued, and articles of harness and saddlery were taken to Mart on, and sold. He prays that the House will grant him redress. I am directed to report that the difficulty in which the petitioner is placed arose mainly from his own act in not paying the rates when due, and in allowing the period to elapse within which he could have taken action in a Court of law The Committee are of opinion that, while he may have a claim on his legal adviser, he has none against the colony 3rd August, 1881.

No. 74.—Petition of Aethub Thomas Bothamley, of "Wellington. The petitioner states that he was appointed by the representatives of William King, deceased, as their attorney; that he found the land situate at Wanganui occupied by trespassers; that in 1878 he had a case against one David Conchie, for malicious injury to property; the case was to be heard at the Supreme Court, "Wanganui; the petitioner was an essential witness ; that the General Assembly passed an Act preventing his attendance; the case was adjourned in consequence and eventually lost, at a considerable cost, which he attributes to his not being able to attend. He prays that relief may be granted him. I am directed to report that the Committee, having made inquiry into the case of the petitioner, are of opinion that he has no claim against the colony for a refund of his legal costs in the matter complained of. 3rd August, 1881.

No. 196.—Petition of James Johnston, of Hampden. The petitioner states that he resides in Hampden, that he is a cattle-dealer; that in the year 1878 Eugene O'Connor claimed some cattle belonging to petitioner, and obtained an award for £93 7s. against him ; that in January, 1879, O'Connor's lost cattle were found, yet, notwithstanding this fact, judgment was given against the petitioner in the District Court, "Westport, for £185, on O'Connor's evidence alone ; that there was a malicious prosecution against the petitioner, and he prays that the case may be reopened, or compensation granted. I am directed to report that the Committee, having reconsidered the case of the petitioner, are of opinion that a gross miscarriage of justice has arisen, owing to the fact that an indictment issued by the Crown Prosecutor, S. M. South, was signed in blank, and the prosecution for perjury broke down. The alleged losses the petitioner has sustained, in consequence, the Committee cannot see its way to admit as any claim against the colony, but recommend that a sum of £50 be paid him to pay his costs in attending the Committee. The Committee direct the attention of the Government to the gross irregularity of the Crown Prosecutor in issuing the indictment. 3rd August, 1881.

No. 17. —Petition of Boiseet Sttoholhe Thompson (No. 1). The petitioner states that he was Native interpreter under Colonel Eoberts; that in pursuance of his duties he was compelled to purchase two horses, and provided forage for the same; his pay was promised to be increased, which promise was not carried out. In 1880 he was dismissed, and no reason stated for his dismissal; he therefore prays for relief. I am directed to report that, having inquired into the case of the petitioner, the Committee are of opinion that he has no claim against the colony for compensation. 4th August, 1881.

No. 113. —Petition of James Hamblyn, of New Plymouth. The petitioner states that he was a private in the Taranaki Volunteers ; that he was wounded in action at Eva Eva, from which it was necessary to amputate his right arm, for which he received a pension of 2s. 2d. per diem, and prays to be allowed a pension of 3s. per diem in lieu thereof. I am directed to report that, as it appears from evidence before the Committee that the petitioner receives the highest pension allowed in the grade in which he is classed, the Committee cannot recommend a further increase. 4th August, 1881.

No. 114.—Petition of A. Eichardt and Others, of Christchurch. The petitioners pray that no increased fees may be levied under the Licensing Bill before the House. No. 140. —Petition of "William "Weight and Others, of Christchurch. The petitioners pray that bottle licenses be not abolished. No. 159.—Petition of Neill and Co. and Others of Dunedin. Tee petitioners pray that bottle licenses be not abolished.