L—4b.

I am informed that the run in question exceeds 30,000 acres in extent, with about eleven miles of frontage to the main road, and only one occupation license on it. The present runholder, Mr. Elliott, has made no improvements, with the exception of a temporary sheep-yard on Section 2, which has been done since my application was made, and the cost of which would not exceed £8. Further, Mr. Elliott holds 1,100 acres of freehold, and objects to my getting 100 acres for a homestead. I actually employ more labour and at a bigger outlay, individually, than Mr. Elliott, who holds the 30,000 acres. It was suggested that I should take up Section 3, the northern boundary of Mr. Elliott's run, instead of the ground I applied for ; but this section has been proved to be payably auriferous, two others and myself having expended over £300 in mining plant, which has been in work on the same section. The total cost of applying for the 100 acres in question has been about £40, which is ruinous to miners who are inclined to settle in the country. Hoping, gentlemen, that you will give this matter your earliest consideration, for the benefit of myself and the whole of the mining community, And your memorialist will ever pray. Jambs Hesson, Bald Hill Plat, Vincent County. Approximate Cost of Paper,— Preparation, nil ; printing (1,200 copies), £1. By Authority: Samuel Costall, Government Printer, Wellington.—lB9s. Piice, 3d.}

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