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The propositions for the reorganization of the forces are as follow:— 1. The appointment of a Commandant. 2. Amalgamation of the districts into four: Auckland, Wellington, Canterbury, and Otago. 3. The organization of field forces in each district. 4. The establishment of a "partially-paid" system. 5. The abolition of the selection of officers by the members of the corps. 6. Combining with the Australian Colonies, for an annual inspection of the forces, by a general officer, who would also be the military adviser of the Government. These propositions cannot be carried out without increased cost, but it would not exceed the amount annually expended by the colony on the local forces up to 1887. No further sums should be expended upon works or batteries after the present works are armed and completed ; but the field forces should be placed on a proper footing; or the expenditure which you have incurred in defending your harbours may be rendered useless. I would strongly impress upon your Government that batteries and forts are of little value unless they are supplemented by field forces to prevent their being turned. In conclusion, I would request your Excellency to convey to your Government my grateful thanks for the kindness I have received, and for the arrangements which have been made by the Hon. T. Fergus for my journey through New Zealand. I have the honour to be, My Lord, Your obedient Servant, J. BEVAN EDWABDS, Major-General. [Approximate Cott of Paper.— Preparation, nil; printing (1325 copies), £2 18s. 6d. I

Authority : Geobge Didsboky, Government Printer, Wellington.—lB9o.

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