E.—3.

efforts of the managers and other officers of the institutions are producing a great improvement in the general tone, with the result that a very large proportion of the inmates are likely to do well in after-life. New Zealand already stands very high, according to one of the best authorities, Miss Bosa M. Barrett, in her successful handling of the industrial-school question, and I hope that, even though it may involve increased expenditure, she may still keep pace with the advance that is being made in the communities whose policy in this question is most enlightened. G. HoGBEN.

No. 4. REPORTS OP MEDICAL OFFICERS. Auckland. Sir,— Auckland, 18th May, 1903. I have the honour to report that during the year ending the 31st March, 1903, we have had epidemics of influenza, measles, and whooping-cough, and a few cases of acute chest-affections as well as some of severe diarrhoea. There have not been any deaths amongst the children under my charge. There was, however, one sickly young woman who was sent up from the South some years ago and whose health was much improved while in the school, who, at the expiration of her term, returned to her friends in the Middle Island, and shortly afterwards died. The opportune enlargement of the buildings at Mount Albert will add greatly to the comfort of the inmates, and will facilitate in many ways the work of the school. The excellent soil of the garden and the skilful cultivation have contributed much to the health and enjoyment of the children by providing a constant supply of excellent vegetables and fruits. The management, as usual, leaves nothing to be desired. I have, &c, A. G. Purchas, M.B.C.S. (Eng.), Medical Officer, Auckland Industrial School. The Secretary for Education, Wellington.

Sir,— Auckland, 15th April, 1903. On Tuesday, the 14th April, at the request of the sister in charge, I attended, in place of Dr. Laing, at the Convent, Takapuna, and inspected the premises and the inmates. The boys, with one exception, " Frank Smith," who was seriously ill, appeared to be in the best of health, and certainly looked happy arid well cared for. The sleeping arrangements appeared somewhat crowded, but the best use seems to be made of the means of ventilation. The premises were spotlessly clean and in good order. I was very pleased with all I saw. I have, &c, H. C. Bennett, M.8., M.8.C.5., L.R.C.P. The Secretary for Education, Wellington.

Sir,— Auckland, 15th April, 1903. I beg to forward the following report on St. Mary's Industrial School, Auckland (Girls' Branch): — I have examined the building thoroughly, and find the dormitories, schoolrooms, and refectory clean and well ventilated. The children's beds and bedding I also took particular notice of, on which I can report most favourably. The water-supply is good and sufficient. The lavatories are clean and dry, and well washed out. The kitchen is also well able to meet the demands of the inmates. The children I got all assembled together, and carefully inspected each one. I found no contagious diseases, and all seemed well dressed, nourished, and clean. The "bill of fare" is quite sufficient for the well-nourishment of any child, of no matter what class. The grounds are large, and well adapted for healthy recreation; and the drainage and sanitation is good. So taking all and all, combined with the magnificent site of the Orphanage from a medical point, I am thoroughly satisfied. I have, &c, W. J. Darby, Hon. Physician. The Secretary for Education, Wellington.

Wellington. Sir,— Wellington, Bth June, 1903. I hereby certify that I have this day thoroughly examined St. Joseph's Orphanage, Hawkestone Street, Wellington. I found all the inmates in a good healthy condition. The dormitories, class-rooms, diningrooms, are well ventilated. The sanitary arrangements are quite up to date; in fact, I could find no fault anywhere, as the air in all the rooms was almost pure, and nothing but the utmost cleanliness prevailed. I have, &c, P. Mackin, M.D., F.8.C.5., Ed. The Secretary for Education, Wellington,

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