H.—9

4

upright man, conscientious in the discharge of duty, with a kindliness and courtesy of manner that endeared him most to those who knew him best. I greatly regret the loss of an official associate I held in such high personal respect and esteem. The Government, having had to consider new arrangements, decided to amalgamate the Gold Fields Department with that of Crown Lands, Mr. H. J. H. Eliott being Under-Secretary of both departments. I have to acknowledge, with thanks, returns of revenue, and of gold exported, received from the Secretary to the Treasury, Mr. Gavin, and the Secretary of Customs, Mr. Seed. J. McKerrow.