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No. 3. (No. 6.) Sir, — Government House,' Wellington, 16th January, 1900. I have the honour to enclose you a copy of a memorandum I have received from my Premier regarding the resurveying of the New Zealand coast. The original survey of the coasts of New Zealand seems to have been carried out by H.M.S. " Acheron " and H.M.S. " Pandora," between the years 1849 and 1855. The survey then was only a partial one, and there are many inaccuracies in the charts, fresh rocks and other dangers being constantly discovered ; whilst many of the harbour charts, through alteration in the bars, are comparatively of little use. The large increase in the size and draught of steamers in our ports makes the question of a proper survey most urgent. I have, &c, The Eight. Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

Enclosure. Memorandum for His Excellency the Governor. The Premier presents his compliments, and desires to bring under His Excellency's notice the necessity for a complete resurvey of the coasts of this colony. Some parts have been properly surveyed, and little requires to be done; but there are other parts which have never been completely surveyed, and the charts have proved from time to time to be defective and misleading. The Premier therefore respectfully requests that His Excellency will bring the matter under the notice of the Imperial authorities, and ask them to send a vessel to properly complete the survey. Our Marine Department and its officers would indicate to the commander of the surveying vessel the parts of the coast which require most urgent attention. Premier's Office, Wellington, 15th January, 1900. E. J. Seddon.

No. 4. . (No. 8.) Sib, — Government House, Wellington, 18th January, 1900. I have the honour to inform you that the Third Contingent from New Zealand, consisting of volunteer men and horses, independent of New Zealand Government assistance, will probably sail in two steamers about the 15tb February. 2. This .Contingent is being raised by the Mayors of the principal towns, each town meeting the expenses of equipment and transport to South iUxica. The number of men and horses is likely to be about 250. 3. My Government have arranged that both men and horses should be inspected and passed as suitable by the Commander of the Forces, and for this purpose will continue the camp now occupied by the Second Contingent, into which the men will be drafted daily, so as to give them the opportunity of drilling together. 4. This Contingent I understand has been accepted by the British Government, through the Agent-General in London. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 5. (No. 11.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 13th February, 1900. I have the honour to request that Mr. Thomas Thompson may receive Her Majesty's gracious permission to retain the title of " Honourable." Mr. Thompson has just retired from office, having severally been Member of the Executive Council and Ministry for nearly four years. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.