1.—5

APPENDIX Fa. Memorandum re Folchee's Siding. The first application was refused, 24/4/77 ; Mr. Conyers concurring that the granting of the right was undesirable. Mr. Folcher again applied, 14/5/77; Mr. Grant forwarded application, 18/8/77; Mr. Conyers recommended same, 27/8/77 ; the Minister approved, 12/9/77, and action was thereupon promptly taken. There has been no undue delay. The date of application and date of Mr. Grant's forwarding it apparently point to its having been unduly delayed in the Dunedin office, but that is evidently explained by the fact that the Manager held over the application consequently on having seen Mr. Knowles's refusal to the first application ; and he did not forward it until the railway had been open some few weeks, by which he was able to estimate the value of the traffic, and to make a satisfactory recommendation. Immediately this was done, prompt action was taken. 18th October, 1877. J. P. Maxwell.