A.—6.

1877. NEW ZEALAND.

SIR W. JERVOIS'S PROPOSED VISIT TO REPORT ON THE HARBOUR DEFENCES OF THE COLONY (MESSAGE FROM HIS EXCELLENCY, ENCLOSING MEMORANDA RELATIVE TO).

NOBMANBT, Governor. Message. The Governor transmits to the House of Representatives the copy of a correspondence between the Governor and his Ministers on the subject of the visit of His Excellency Sir William Jervois to New Zealand, for the purpose of reporting upon the best means of defending the principal ports in the colony from foreign attack. Government House, Wellington, 3rd December, 1877.

No. 1. Memorandum for the Hon. Sir George Gret, K.C.B. The Governor presents his compliments to Sir George Grey, and requests to be informed by Ministers what answer they would wish him to send to the enclosed letter from His Excellency Sir William Jervois on the subject of his visit to New Zealand, for the purpose of reporting upon the defences of the colony. Government House, Wellington, 24th November, 1877. Nobmanbt.

Enclosure in No. 1. Copt of a Letter from His Excellency Sir W. F. D. Jervois to His Excellency the Governor of New Zealand. Sear Lord Normanbt, — Government House, Adelaide, 15th October, 1877. In accordance with my note of 16th July, I propose visiting New Zealand, to report upon defence of harbours, about the middle or the third week of December next, beginning at the south, and working northwards by Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, &c. It would greatly facilitate my movements if the "Hinemoa" —I believe that is the name of the eteamer belonging to your Government—can be sent to Hobart Town for me, and I would feel exceedingly obliged if you will do anything in your power to aiford me this facility. I will let you know, further, as to the precise day on which I propose leaving Hobart Town. Meanwhile please telegraph to me if the " Hinemoa" can be sent for me. Wm. F. Deummond Jeevois. His Excellency the Marquis of Normanby, G.C.M.G., &c.