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from the coast to the Waitara river in the interior. I have had the assistance and advice of two assessors, Tahana and Hoera Tiwa, and on their recommendation have paid an advance of £150, as a first instalment for the said land, and beg to forward herewith a requisition for that amount, which I have advanced from my own private account. I presume the Government would wish the survey of this new offer of land to be commenced as soon as practicable, being necessary before the negotiations can be concluded. The acquisition of such a district for settlement is of great importance to this Province. I have, Ac., The Under Secretary, Public Works Department, Robeet Paebis. Wellington.

No. 34. The Hon. the Natite Ministeb to Mr. James Booth. Sib, — Native Office, Wellington, 7th September, 1871. Tou will have received from the Public Works Department a communication intimating that it is the intention of tho Government to acquire from the Natives, if practicable, certain blocks of land between Whanganui and Taupo, for the purpose of colonization and settlement. It is yet uncertain whether the Native owners are generally disposed to cede any large extent of territory in that direction; and you will, therefore, have the goodness, in conjunction with Lieut.-Colonel McDonnell, to place yourself in communication with the chiefs of the district lately explored by yourself for road works. Tou will ascertain if they are inclined to alienate any tract of land available for settlement, and if so, to what extent; and you will report the result of your observations. Tou will, however, understand that it is not the wish of the Government to press these transactions on the Natives, should they appear reluctant to enter upon them, and that they are to be carried out only if a disposition is evinced favourable to the introduction of European settlers in the district. I have, &c, James Booth, Esq., Wanganui. Donald McLean.

No. 35. Mr. James Booth to the TJndeb Seceetaet for Public Woeks. Sib,— Wanganui, 12th July, 1872. In addition to the accompanying report, I have the honor to state lstly—that Major Kemp and myself are at this present time negotiating with the Native owners of the different blocks for the purchase of a very extensive block of land at Murimotu. 2ndly. Of all the country between Mangawhero and the Turakina rivers, and extending from the boundary of the Wanganui purchased block to the Murimotu Plains. 3rdly. Of a large block of land between the Wanganui and the Kai Iwi rivers. 4thly. Of a large block of land between the Upper Wanganui river and Mokau, called Koiro, and not far from Tuhua. With regard to block No. 2 in this list, the Native owners are now assembling at Putiki from different parts of the country for the purpose of discussing the subject. And with regard to No. 4 on the list, Major Kemp and myself have promised to attend a large meeting at Tuhua next month, and to take up surveyors to survey the block offered for sale. I have, &c, The Under Secretary for Public Works, Wellington. James Booth.