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sides of the line and sent northward for road economy of repair, while the road would be fit for the carriage of the heaviest railway loads, at any railway speed. Keeping in view the rapid increase of population, and growth of commerce in operation in the Province, this is a point on which I think there should not be the slightest hesitation.

With regard to the embankments along the margin of the Bluff Harbour, the method proposed by Mr Heale, of constructing these with flat slopes and facing with stone is quite proper. I am of opinion that the views of Mr. Heale with regard to the propriety of adopting the standing gauge of 4 feet 8½ inches, are perfectly sound. It is amply sufficient for all purposes of traffic, and as the rolling stock must be obtained from England, the adoption of any other gauge would necessitate the making of special articles of rolling plant which could only be obtained at a large increase of cost.

It is, however, I think exceedingly desirable that observations should be made of the highest tides which occur there, in order that the height of these embankments may be arranged upon definite information, and it would probably be well that the highest spring tide marks of next month should be ascertained and referred to the datum of the railway section. I am aware that the highest tides occur in the harbour with westerly winds, when the embankments will of course be in smooth water; but I am of opinion, notwithstanding, that it would be no more than prudent to take the highest ascertained tide under any direction of wind, and keep the tops of these embankments at such a height above it as to be beyond all question beyond the possibility of disturbance.

The structure and gauge of the permanent way are matters which will require early consideration. As the rail will be of the first class in point of curves and gradients, I am of opinion that the permanent way should be of the most substantial construction. The tendency of all the railway companies in the home country has been to increase the strength of their roads. No doubt it may be said their rate of speed is high and their loads and engines heavy; but looking only to the economy of repair in a country like this where labour is dear, I entertain no doubt that a way of transverse sleepers with a rail of 75 lbs to the yard should be adopted.

It must be kept in view, that most of the sources of outlay are constant, whether a 75lb. rail be chosen or one ten or fifteen pounds lighter, and that the adoption of the heavier rail would secure the greatest economy of repair, while the road would be fit for the carriage of the heaviest railway loads, at any railway speed. Keeping in view the rapid increase of population, and growth of commerce in operation in the Province, this is a point on which I think there should not be the slightest hesitation.

The station ground at the Invercargill terminus, is considerably deficient in point of length; inconvenience will speedily, as the traffic increases, be felt from this cause. I understand, however, that any extent of space can be had on the west side of the line, which would only require to be moderately embanked. It would be better that the engine shed, water-tank and engine turn-table, should be kept some distance out of the station ground proper, on the west side of the line. This would materially increase the standing room within the station.

Taking the quantities of work as ascertained by Mr. Heale, I consider his estimate quite sufficient for the execution of the works. A third locomotive engine, should, if possible, be obtained at the outset. In other respects Mr. Heale’s estimate for rolling stock is ample for a commencement.

I have the honour to be,

SIR,

Your Honor’s most obedient Servant,

J. F. DUNDAS.

To His Honor
The Superintendent,
Southland.

Printed for the Provincial Government by SMALLFIELD & BAIN, Dee-street, Invercargill, Southland, N.Z.