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No. 24,_ page 453.) That statement of Mr. Ballance refers to the Pomare Kingi inquiry I never either m writing or in conversation, made any statement that could lead Government'to bo under the impression that I was anxious for the inquiry.

(Telegram.) Auckland, 23rd December, 1885. Confidential.—Be Pomare Kmgi bribery inquiry : Before Commissioner yesterday Fraser said Government had asked him to go on with inquiry, but he refused, as he would not cast slur on bneenan, deceased; also that he had not asked Government to grant inquiry ; and that he had been asked by Government to petition for inquiry, but he had refused to do so on account of bheehan s death. The inquiry adjourned till to-morrow. T. W. Lewis, Esq., Wellington. j. , E . Macdonald.

at oca n y 7 L - i m, ■ Government Buildings, 23rd December, 1885. No. bbO. Confidential.— There is no foundation that I am aware of for the statements made by Mr. Eraser. Ihe inquiry into Pomare's case was recommended by Native Affairs Committee and it was m consequence of that recommendation that the Commission was issued. Mr Eraser has not been asked by Government to go on with inquiry, and has never refused on any grounds. The Hon. the Native Minister and myself were under impression that Mr. Eraser was most anxious for the inquiry, in order that he might have an opportunity of clearing himself from imputation on the matter, bo tar as the Government are concerned, the inquiry has relation only to the conduct of the Assessor. Other issues are simply collateral. T. W. Lewis His Honour J. E. Macdonald, Auckland. Under-Secretary.

(Telegram.) Auckland, 24th December, 1885. lie Eraser : Have left your confidential telegram with the Commissioner. Please wire him " very urgent it he is to read it. I recommend your saying " Yes " T. W. Lewis, Esq., Wellington. j. E . Macdonald.

(^ leB^m-) . . Government Buildings, Wellington, 24th December/ 1885. JNo. bdb : No objection to your perusing my confidential telegram to Chief Judge. xt- tt t T- W- Lewis, His Honour Judga Smith, Eoyal Commissioner, Auckland. Under-Secretary. [Approximate Cost of Paper— Preparation, nil; printing (1,280 copies), £5 2s. fid..]

Bj Authority: Geokge Didsbuby, Government Printer, Wellington.—lBS6.