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I think it right to add that the necessary subsidy for the monthly mail-steamers between Melbourne and New Zealand, to which Victoria makes no contribution, is so considerable in proportion to the correspondence sent by those steamers, that it is proposed to discontinue this subsidy after the month of February next. I have, &c, John Hall, The Hon. the Chief Secretary, Melbourne. (for the Colonial Secretary.)

No. 12. The Hon. John Hall to the Hon. the Colonial Seceetaey, Sydney Sie, — Colonial Secretary's Office, Wellington, 20th September, 1880. In view of the community of interest existing between New South Wales and this colony in the matter of ocean postal services, I think it right to forward to you a copy of a letter received from the Chief Secretary of Victoria, with reference to the decision of this Government to continue to levy the old rates of postage on correspondence forwarded by the route of Brindisi, and of my reply thereto. I have, &c, John Hall, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, New South Wales. (for the Colonial Secretary )

No. 13. The Peincipal Undee-Seceetaey, Sydney, to the Hon. the Colonial Seceetaey, Wellington. Colonial Secretary's Office, Sydney, New South Wales, Sis,— Bth October, 1880. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 20th ultimo, forwarding copy of a letter received from the Chief Secretary of Victoria, with reference to the decision of your Government to continue to levy the old rates of postage on correspondence forwarded by the route of Brindisi, and also of your reply thereto. I have, &c, Ceitchett Walkee, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary of New Zealand, Principal Under-Secretary, Wellington. (for the Colonial Secretary.)

Authority: Geoegb Didsbubt, GoTernment Printer, Wellington,—lBBl.

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