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2. I have been very glad to receive Mr. Seddon's letter, and I fully appreciate the merits of his suggestion, which has received the most careful consideration. It was, however, the unanimous opinion of the representative Committee which was appointed by His Majesty the King to deal with the subject that the memorial should be personal in form, and not -concerned with any secondary object, however important. Further, the question of technical university education is attracting great attention in this country, and much progress is being made in many parts of the United Kingdom in the establishment of colleges and universities for that purpose ; and it is found by experience that to gain the full advantage of such institutions it is necessary that they should be scattered throughout the Empire, and not confined to a single centre. Canada has made great advances in this direction, and doubtless Australia and New Zealand will follow her example. 3. For these reasons, and also because it would be impossible to secure the permanent prosperity and maintenance of any institution requiring annual support, the Committee decided on the architectural and monumental form of commemoration indicated in their report. 4. I have to request that you will communicate this despatch to Mr. Seddon. I have, &c, Governor the Bight Hon. the Earl of Ranfurly, G.C.M.G., &c. J. Chamberlain. Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given; printing (1,200 copies), £1 Is.

By Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9ol. Price 3d.]