At a Board meeting of the Hawke's Bay Branch, N.Z.T.A., held on the 20th inst., a communication from the secretary of the Executive Council anent sending a delegate to a conference to be held in Melbourne during the currency of the Exhibition was dealt with. The Council wrote asking if the Branch could donate the sum of £5 towards defraying expenses of such delegate. The Board, although sympathising with the movement, regretted that it could not assist financially, owing to the funds of the branch being at a very low ebb— about £4 10s standing to its credit. The Board suggested that, as the finances of the Association were also in an unsatisfactory condition, the Council by nominating a gentleman in Melbourne acquainted with the trade in New Zealand to represent the N.Z.T.A., or any member of the N.Z. craft who intends being present in Melbourne during the Exhibition period, might materially reduce the expenses.

The Council desiring the Board's opinion as to the location of the incoming Executive, the Board suggested that as Wellington was the most central town, the Council be situated there for another term.

Mr E. R. Peacock, formerly connected for several years with the jobbing department of the Daily Telegraph and lately on the companionship of the H. B. Herald, severed his connection with the Branch on Saturday last, consequent on his leaving for Sydney the same day. This makes the second departure for Sydney during the present month, both being employés of the Herald, the depression being the reason assigned for leaving. It is to be regretted that so skilful a workman as Mr Peacock has been forced to depart from among us.