Opinions of Railway Experts.

'With reference to the several discussions we have had with you upon the advisability of introducing throughout the New Zealand Railways, the low fares you have advocated, we beg to state that, after full and deep consideration, we are prepared to agree with you in respect of the following:—

'That the increase in the number of passenger fares taken would be three times as many as at present, or an increase of two hundred per cent, upon the present issue.

'That the average fare could not sink below one shilling.

'That the increased passenger traffic would not perceptibly increase the working expenses.

'Ridley William Moody,

'T. D. Edmonds,

'Jas. Stodart.'^*

Opinion of Mr. William Conyers, C.E., formerly Commissioner South Island Railways.

In a long letter to me Mr. Conyers, whom at that time I had never seen, says,—'I agree with Messrs. Moody. Stodart, and Edmonds in their report on your system, and you may use my name to that effect. In answer to your first query, I am of opinion that the number of passenger fares would be three times the present number—that is, an increase of 200 percent. ("I wrote you this before, never having seen their report at the time.") 2. The average fare, which is now, including season tickets, and probably parcels, dogs, etc., only 2s. 3d., could not sink below one shilling. 3. Three passengers could be carried as cheaply as one.'