A.—l.

3. They expressed themselves pleased with the loyalty and warmth of their reception ; and I consider their visit will be productive of the best results. 4. Throughout their stay, all the functions have been without incident. The sensational reports in some of the papers as to a fire in the house in Christchurch during their residence there are without foundation. I have, &c, The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, RANFURLY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 30. (No. 57.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd July, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that the second session of the Fourteenth Parliament was opened by Commission on the Ist July, 1901, for the purpose of taking the oath of allegiance. 2. On the following day Parliament was formally opened by me. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, . EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 31. (No. 58.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd July, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that my Government are desirous of adding the title of " Eoyal " to the New Zealand Artillery. His Majesty's sanction to this request would be much appreciated. The New Zealand Artillery are the only Permanent Force at present in the colony, the other Defence Forces being entirely Volunteers and Militia. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 32. (No. 59.) Sir, — Government House, Wellington, 2nd July, 1901. I have the honour to inform you that my Government are desirous of making an arrangement by which letters may be transmitted between this colony and the French possessions in Oceania at the postage equivalent of 10 centimes for each 15 grammes of weight. It is not desired to disturb the existing rates of postage for articles other than letters. I have the honour to bring this matter under your attention, and to request, if you concur, that His Majesty's Government will approach the French Government on this question. The request is made under Article XXI. of the Postal Convention of Washington, and is based on the fact of the proximity of Tahiti and other French possessions. The close trade relations which have for many years existed between the islands referred to render it desirable that the postage rate should be on the lowest possible basis. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. J. Chamberlain, EANFUELY. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

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