No. 23.—Petition of Henry Alley.

The petitioner, who is a European, states that in the year 1872 he entered into negotiations for the lease of a large block of land in the Upper Thames Valley, and subsequently obtained it from the Native owners; that his occupation of the said leasehold was objected to by the Government Agents, Messrs. Clark and Puckey, and that his cattle were driven by Native, at the instigation, as he believes, of the said Government Agents. Petitioner prays that his statements may be investigated by persons unconnected with the Native Department, and that he may be reinstated in possession of his leasehold, and that such other relief may be given him as the House may deem fit.

I am directed to report, that the Committee regret that the time at their disposal has not been sufficient to enable them to make such, inquiries as would justify them in reporting an opinion on the subject-matter of this petition.