H.—2o

9

" The First Offenders' Probation Act, 1886." This Act still continues to work well in this district. No conditions have been broken, and all moneys ordered to be paid by the different Courts have been paid. Three offenders have received the benefit of the Act during the year. B. T. Noble Beasley, Gaoler and Probation Officer.

Wellington Prison. H.M. Prison, Wellington. I have the honour to report that during the year 1903 the conduct and industry of the prisoners has, on the whole, been good. There were only two prisoners placed on bread-and-water diet during the year. Two prisoners escaped, one from the Point Halswell works, and the other from this Prison by getting over the wall, although a sentry was on post over him. Both prisoners were recaptured and brought before the Court and dealt with. The prisoners were employed at brick and tile making at Point Halswell and Shelly Bay fortification-works, at Somes Island tree-planting, and also repairing the Shelly Bay Boad from near Kilbirnie to the Government Beserve. The health of the prisoners generally has been good. One prisoner was sent to the Hospital for treatment, where he died. An inquest was held, and a verdict returned of " Death from natural causes." We hope to be in occupation of the new wing shortly, but accommodation for forty female prisoners is much required, the present cells being old and patched up. I would recommend a two-story enclosed wing, the base to be used for a laundry and workroom. Single warders' quarters are very much required, as the old quarters were removed to make room for the new wing. lam only anxious to have moderate requirements carried out. There was only one case of an officer being punished during the year, and this was in connection with the escape of a prisoner. The prisoners' food has been ample and good. I hope to see in the near future a prison-farm established, where the men can be taught agriculture, with advantage to themselves and the Department, and, indeed, to the colony at large. The Probation Act is giving every satisfaction, although probation is not being granted so freely as in the past. P. S. Garvey, Gaoler and Probation Officer.

2—H. 20.