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I request that you will inform the Synods that the missionaries will be protected by the Joint Naval Commission which is to be charged with the duty of maintaining order and of protecting the lives and property of British subjects and French citizens in that group. I have, &c, H. T. HOLLAND. Governor Sir W. F. D. Jervois, G.C.M.G., C.8., &o.

No. 71. (Circular.) Hie, — Downing Street, 27th January, 1888. I have the honour to inform you that the Board of Trade has suggested that it might be of advantage to the colonies if the drafts of proposed enactments relating to bankruptcy or insolvency were communicated to the Board before they have finally passed the colonial Legislatures. Some disposition has been shown in various colonies to adopt substantially the provisions of the English " Bankruptcy Act, 1883 ;" but during the four years which have elapsed since that Act came into operation the experience of its practical administration has brought to light certain defects which may shortly be remedied by further legislation. The knowledge of these defects is not as yet practically accessible; and it would, therefore, probably be found advantageous for an opportunity to be afforded to the Board of Trade to draw attention to any provisions taken from the English Act which such experience has shown to be capable of amendment. This suggestion appears to me worthy of your consideration, in case an opportunity should arise for acting upon it. I have, &c, H. T. HOLLAND. The Officer Administering the Government of New Zealand.

No. 72. (Circular.) Sib, — Downing Street, 30th January, 1888. With reference to previous correspondence respecting the Convention entered into with the French Government in regard to the New Hebrides, I have the honour to acquaint you, for the information of your Government, that the regulations for the guidance of the Joint Naval Commission are being drawn up by the two Governments, and will be sent to the British and .French naval commanders within four months from the signature of the Convention on the 16th of November last, at the expiration of which period the French Government have engaged to withdraw their military posts from the New Hebrides. I have, &c, H. T. HOLLAND. The Officer Administering the Government of New Zealand. [Approximate Cost of Paper.— Preparation, nil; printing (1,375 copies), £35 Is.]

Authority: Geobge Didsbuby, Government Printer, Wellington.—lBBB.