E.—ll

4

for the former and of the chain for the latter. The work was very intelligently done throughout, and I was pleased with the manner in which the students set to work. Farm books : These were neatly kept by both classes of students. On the whole, I consider the students have been well' taught, and they have evidently made good use of their opportunities. Veterinary Science. — J. A. Gilruth, M.E.C.V.S., reports : In the first year the students' grasp of the subjects taught was on the whole good, three being especially so. In the second year one only answered three questions, hence the low percentage of marks; and one, while passing a good oral examination, produced an inferior paper, he having entirely misapprehended one question. Dairying. —Mr. Thos. Quayle reports: Six students of the second year were presented for examination. It is pleasing to state that the students showed much interest in practical dairying. The possibilities of increased wealth to the people who are engaged exclusively in dairying for a living are fully recognised by the students, who are also conscious that the success of the dairying industry depends upon the production of butter and cheese which will command favour in the English market. The class as a whole give evidence of the reading of the most modern works on dairy matters. The importance of exercising care in the selection of profitable cows has been well taught, and the necessity of careful selection of winter forage to insure against unpleasant flavours in the produce is fully understood. The dairy and utensils were quite clean ; the butter churned was of nice quality. Ploughing.- —Mr. Jarman, of Greendale, reports : Six students of the second year competed. I am pleased to state that the students had a good idea of what was required, but, owing to the hardness of the land, were not able to do such good work as would have been done in regard to finishes of last furrow had the soil contained more moisture. The horses were well and quietly handled, and the work on the whole exceeded my expectations. Agricultural Practice. —Mr. Geo. Eennie reports as follows: I have the honour to report that I examined the students in agriculture, as requested by the Board. In the first year the work was very uneven, some of the best students being particularly good and two or three of the lowest ones very indifferent. The majority of the students gave very creditable results, and the practical work was very good throughout the whole class. In the second year the average was very good, both in practical and theoretical work, the two leading students in particular showing a thorough knowledge of the subject. Approximate Cost of Paper.— Preparation, not given ; printiog (1,556 copies), £2 10s. 6d.

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