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49. Are you aware what the result of that meeting was from the Auckland papers ? You do not know that, so far as Auckland is concerned, the Auckland auctioneers unanimously condemned this Bill? I understand you to say that you are a farmer?—l am a farmer, and I believe in the district I represent there is not one farmer in fifty but would like to see this Bill passed. 50. And do you mean to tell the Committee that this Bill is in popular favour with the farmers in your district ?—Yes, that is so. 51. And do you know anything of the feelings of the farmers throughout the colony?—No, I do not. 52. Do you indorse the views expressed by Mr. Mundel—that, if passed into law, this Bill would accomplish all that he says it would?—l am of that opinion. 53. And do you believe it would be possible for the vendors of stock to comply with all the provisions of this Bill if it became law ?—I think it would be possible. 54. Are you not aware that they are now breaking the law ? —Yes ; but what is the use of the law unless it is enforced ? 55. Do you know that the conditions of sale as read by the auctioneer are provided under the present law ?—I believe it does. 56. And is there not one clause that there shall be no fictitious bidding, and such bid to be the upset price ? Hon. the Chairman: Ido not think Mr. Lawry is asking a question which Mr. Mitchell would answer. 57. Mr. Lawry.] Well, another question. If the auctioneer does not read his conditions of sale, is it not contrary to the existing law ?—I believe it is, sir. 58. And, finally, I would ask Mr. Mitchell if he is satisfied that if this Bill becomes law it will accomplish what he wants ?—I think it will ; and I think under the existing law the auctioneer is placed in a most wretched position.

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