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that connection should always be made with the Saturday fast boat from New York, and this Mr. Spreckels has, under present running, failed to do. If, however, he is now satisfied that he does not want an extra day, the Postmaster-General no doubt would agree to present time-table being continued. In any case question should be definitely settled before the holidays. Perhaps you will decide to cable Mr. Spreckels.

No. 37. Mr. Dunnet, Auckland, to the Secbetaby, General Post Office, Wellington (at Christchurch). (Telegram.) Auckland, 21st December, 1901. Will cable Spreckels asking where matters are at variance, and will advise alteration of sailing date.

No. 38. Mr. Dunnet, Auckland, to the Secbetaey, General Post Office, Wellington. (Telegram.) Auckland, 24th December, 1901. Just received cable from Spreckels. He says, please send pro formd contract. Will then wire what his objection is. Cannot alter present sailing dates.

No. 39. The Seceetaey, General Post Office, Wellington, to Mr. Dunnet, Auckland. (Telegram.) Wellington, 26th December, 1901. Thanks for wire. I have advised that there will be no change in Frisco time-table. I hope to have draft contract ready in time for next mail.

No. 40. The Seceetaey, General Post Office, Wellington, to Mr. Dunnet, Auckland. (Telegram.) Wellington, 30th December, 1901. In the time-table you have received from Mr. Spreckels, what day is fixed for arrival at Auckland? Is it Monday as at present ? If you have any copies, please send me half a dozen.

No. 41. The Hon. the Peemiee to the Agent-Geneeal. (Telegram.) Wellington, 30th December, 1901. Fb'isco service renewal: Spreckels now accepts terms except where at variance with American contract, and on our agreeing continue present time-table. Latter approved. Advise London Post Office.

No. 42. Mr. Dunnet, Auckland, to the Secbetaey, General Post Office, Wellington, (Telegram.) Auckland, 31st December, 1901. New time-tables not yet to hand. Monday night will be time of arrival. Will send you time-table drawn up here meantime. I wish it was Tuesday morning myself.

No. 43. Messrs. Hendeeson and Macfaelane, Auckland, to the Seceetaey, General Post Office, Wellington. Oceanic Steamship Company (American and Australian Line), Sic, — Auckland, 31st December, 1901. We have the honour to enclose herewith three pro formd time-tables showing the arrivals and departures of Oceanic steamers. . . . Immediately on receipt of the printed time-tables a supply will be sent you. I trust that the enclosed will suffice in the interim. Tours, (fee, Hendeeson and Macfaelane. The Secretary, General Post Office, Wellington