No. 353, Session II.—Petition of William Gittos.

Petitioner states that a certain Native named Wi Apo died about fifteen years back; that in his lifetime he was interested in a block of land called Pakiri; that previous to his death he committed to petitioner's charge his two sons; that the said block of land was sold to the Government, and the boys' share of the money was £400. A chief called Arama Karaka, and Mr. Sheehan, were trustees for the boys, who were attending the Otamatea School. Money being required for their maintenance, petitioner applied to the trustees for £20, which they stated had been placed to his credit. Upon inquiry he found the money had not been so placed to his credit. He also states that the boys above mentioned have never received their share of the land sold to the Government. He prays the House o cause the facts of his petition, which he sets forth at great length, to be inquired into.

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I am directed to report as follows:—

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.