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between such a grant and the one for bravery in time of war. The colour of the ribbon might be changed, and the stars might be omitted, or some other alteration made to distinguish it from the cross itself. My Ministers submit that it is of very great importance that distinguished bravery in saving human life should be recognised by the New Zealand Government, and in a public way. They therefore have the honour to request your Lordship to advise that Her Most Gracious Majesty may issue the necessary authority for the bestowal of the decoration as suggested, under regulations to be issued by the Governor in Council. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. the Marquis of Eipon, G.C.M.G., GLASGOW. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

No. 17. (No. 13.) My Loed, — Government House, Auckland, 16th April, 1895. In reply to your despatch No. 6, dated 18th January, 1895, I have the honour to inform you that Colonel Fox, New Zealand Militia, late Major Eoyal Artillery, was appointed Military Adviser and Inspecting Officer of the New Zealand Defences and Defence Forces of the Government of New Zealand, on the Ist of September, 1894, he having left the New 7 Zealand Government Service on sth May, 1894, and the appointment is a yearly one. The pay, including- allowances, is .£650 per annum. The engagement is terminable by three months' notice on either side. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. the Marquis of Eipon, G.C.M.G., GLASGOW. Secretary of State for the Colonies.

A.-2, 1895, No. 20.

No. 18. (No. 14.) My Loed, — Government House, Auckland, 16th April, 1895. In reply to your circular despatch of 11th January, 1895, I have the honour to report that a Bill is being prepared by my Government, for introduction at the next session of Parliament, in order to comply with the request therein contained. I have, &c, The Eight Hon. the Marquis of Eipon, G.C.M.G., GLASGOW. Secretary of State for the Colonies. Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, not given; printing (1,350 copies), £9 4s. By Authority: Samuel Costall, Government Printer, Wellington,—lB9s. Price 6d.]

A.-2, 1895, No. 19.