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in spoken language, should, above all, be the aim of all object-teaching, and free conversation in the widest sense." 8. That deaf children in Classes 0 A and -J- A utter their words in a monotone is not in consequence of defective teaching but owing to their utter want of hearing. Their monotonous articulation may be faultless, though not readily understood by strangers. 9. That deaf-mutes of the Classes §A, $-A, speak more plainly than the rest, is as much due to the less lifeless condition of their auditory-nerve system as to the careful teaching and training of the master. 10. Intelligent criticism of the teacher's work, with regard to the difference in the articulate or mechanical speech of pupils under Classes 0 A and -J- A, &c, and those under Classes 4 A and -f A, is only possible when the critic is an honest expert. In other cases it is best to bear in mind Pope's observation, " A little learning is a dangerous thing." I have, &c, The Hon. the Minister of Education. G. van Asch.

No. 3. Repobt op thi-: Medical Offices. ■y IB; Christchurch, May, 1893. I have the honour to submit the following report on the Deaf and Dumb Asylum at Stunner :— The two places occupied by the officers and inmates are kept clean. The inmates have generally enjoyed good health; those with trifling ailments were brought'to my house. It is my duty, however, to report that the main drain runs under one of the schoolrooms, and so to the creek. I would respectfully advise the Government to have this altered,* thus obviating the very objectionable necessity of having the children taught in a room with a drain underneath them. The officers'are doing all in their power to make the children contented and happy. I have, &c, The Hon. the Minister of Education, Wellington. H. H. Pbins. [* Note.—The alteration is being made. —Sec. Education.] Approximate Cost of Paper. — Preparation, not given; printing (1,450 copies), £•£.

By Authority : Samuel Costall, Government Printer for the time being, Wellington.—lB93. Price 3d?,