No. 163 of 1881.—Petition of Retreat Tapsell, Hans Tapsell, and Philip Tapsell (No. 1).

Petitioners state that they petitioned in reference to their claims in 1877; that there resulted an examination by Major Mair; that in December, 1880, they wrote to the Premier, and had for answer that Major Mair had been directed to report; that since that time they have heard nothing about the matter. They pray for immediate attention, and a return of their expenses in going to the Waikato to meet Major Mair.

I am directed to report as follows:—

Hans Tapsell was written to on the 10th June, 1881, in reference to Major Mair's report, made after full inquiry, to the effect that, under Maori usage, the petitioners were not entitled to land at Orakau or elsewhere within the confiscated boundary. It seems, further, that the railway and steam-boat fares were allowed to petitioners in prosecuting their claims. The Committee has no recommendation to make.