CENSUS OF THE COLONY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA,

TAKEN OF THE

31ST MARCH, 1870.

AL ALSO THE

GENERAL STATISTICS OF THE COLONY,

FOR THE TEN YEARS ENDING 31ST DECEMBER, 1869.

COMPILED BY W. KNIGHT, REGISTRAR GENERAL.

PERTH:

PRINTED BY AUTHORITY, BY RICHARD PETHER, GOVERNMENT PRINTER.

1870.

CONTENTS.

REPORT

CENSUS AND STATISTICAL RETURNS.

1.—Abstract of the Population in each District, showing the number of Inhabited Houses, and the Average Number of persons residing therein

2.—Comparative Statement of the Population, showing per centage of Increase between the dates of the Census of 1859 and 1869.

3.—Ages of the Population, in periods of Five and Ten Years, exclusive of 1,470 Prisoners

4.—Return of Prisoners in Convict Gaols or Stations

5.—Return of Religious Denominations

6.—Return of the Country of Birth

7.—Table showing the various Occupations of the Male Population

8.—Education of Persons in Western Australia

9.—Return of Houses in the several Districts, classified according to the number of Rooms, and materials of which the Walls and Roofs are constructed

10.—Return of the Social Condition of the People of Western Australia

10a.—Centesimal proportions of the Population

11.—Return of Land in Cultivation (in acres) 1869, as also the extent of Fencing and Inclosures, with produce of Vintages

12.—Return of Land in Cultivation (in acres) from 1859 to 1869, showing the progressive Increase in each District

13.—Return of the Live Stock of various descriptions in the Colony, on the 31st March, 1870, showing Districts

14.—Return of Live Stock from 1859 to 1869, showing the Increase in each Year

15.—Return of Mills, Manufactories, Agricultural Machinery and Implements in the several Districts

16.—Return of the progress of Schools under the control of the Board of Education, from 1856 to 1869

16a.—Abstract of above, showing per centage of attendance, &c.,

17.—Return of the Revenue of the Colony, from 1859 to 1869

18.—Expenditure of the Colony for the same period

19.—Return of Imperial Expenditure for the same period

20.—Imports of the Colony, from 1860 to 1869, classified in detail

21.—Exports of the Colony, for the same period, classified under the various Heads

22.—Total Number, Tonnage, and Crews of Vessels Entered at each Port of the Colony, from 1860 to 1869

23.—Similar Return of Vessels Cleared at each Port

24.—Number, Tonnage, and Crews of Vessels Entered at Ports from various Countries, from 1860 to 1869

25.—Similar Return of Vessels Cleared at Ports, for various Countries

26.—Total Value of the Imports and Exports of the Colony, from and to the several Countries of Trade

27.—Return of Crown Lands that have been granted and sold (in acres) in the several Districts, 1859 to 1869

28.—Return of all Land under Lease from the Crown, 1859 to 1869

29.—General Return of Lands on the 31st December, 1869

30.—Return of all Lands granted by the Crown in various Districts of the Colony, from its first commencement to the 31st December, 1869. Also, of all Lands occupied by Lease or otherwise, under the Land Regulations, on the 31st of December

31.—Return of all Town and Suburban Allotments granted by the Crown in Fee Simple in the several Towns

32.—Abstract of Births, in the year 1869

33.—Abstract of Deaths, in the year 1869

34.—Abstract of Marriages, in the year 1869

35.—Return of Births in the several Registration Districts, for a period of 10 years, from 1860 to 1869

36.—Return of Deaths in the several Registration Districts, for a period of 10 years, from 1860 to 1869

37.—Table of Births and Deaths for 10 years, showing the total excess of Births

38, 39 and 40.—Returns of Deaths during 1867, 1868, and 1869, classified by ages

41.—Return of Deaths for a period of 10 years, classified by ages

42.—Return of Marriages for 11 years

43.—Return of the various causes of Deaths, classified in accordance with the nomenclature of Dr. Farr

44.—Return of Arrivals and Departures in and from the Colony, for a period of 10 years

45.—Transactions of the Post Office Department, for 11 years

46.—Transactions of the Post Office Savings' Bank, from its commencement in 1863, to 31st December, 1869

47.—Return of Prisoners convicted in the Supreme Court for 10 years

48.—Return of the business conducted in the Supreme Court, under its several Civil Jurisdictions, 10 years

49.—Meteorological Register kept at Perth, by W. H. Knight, for the Years 1867, 1868, and 1869

50.—Abstract of the Rainfall at Perth, for the same Period

51.—Range of the Thermometer at Albany in 1862

REPORT.

REPORT

TO THE

HON : FREDERICK PALGRAVE BARLEE, ESQ., M. C.,

COLONIAL SECRETARY,

ETC., ETC., ETC.

Registrar General's Office,

Perth, 16th July, 1870.

SIR,

I have the honor to forward, herewith, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, the accompanying Report, divided and classified under two heads ; the first of which is confined to the results of the Census taken on the night of the 31st of March last, and the other to the General Statistics of the Colony ; and I have appended thereto returns having reference to the various subjects treated of under both Heads.

His Excellency, I think, will understand that the undertaking has been a work of great labor and difficulty to me, in consequence of the many and important demands on my time ; but I entered upon the work with an earnest desire to render the results as useful and interesting as possible ; and it will afford me very great pleasure if I find that my labors have been in any way successful.

In reference to the delay which has occurred in the completion of the work, I beg to observe that it has been unavoidable, in consequence of the Roebourne Returns not having come to hand before the 9th July. Every preparation was made, early in the month of May, for the completion of the Report and the sundry Returns, but I received Instructions to await the arrival of the Census Papers from Roebourne, consequently I had no choice, and, since their arrival, it has taken some trouble in amalgamating the particulars into the General Returns.

The whole of the work has been performed by myself, without any assistance, except in the abstracting of the Census Papers, in which portion of it I received the following aid :—

Mr. W. H. Knight, Returns including a population of 5,326

Mr. Dean, Returns including a population of 3,213

Messrs. Howard, Returns including a population of 2,493

Mr. Ley, Returns including a population of 1,150

The remainder, including a population of 12,603, was done by myself. Every precaution was taken, before the Census Papers were issued, to secure correct and faithful Returns. Circulars were addressed by you to the Resident Magistrates, and these were followed by detailed instructions from myself and the Superintendent of Police ; and I think I may with confidence assert that the work has been done in a most efficient manner, and the results are unimpeachable. In saying this, I am not alluding so much to the work of abstraction, or arrangement, as to the strict scrutiny which has been exercised by the Police in their arduous portion of the duty. As more than half of the Papers have been abstracted by myself, and the other portion has been narrowly examined by me, I am therefore justified in stating that every Return (with such slight exceptions as not to be worth notice) carries with it its own interpretation, and particularly in regard to Religious Denominations, to which especial attention had been called. I think it would be invidious for me to give prominence to the efficiency of any one officer, but it affords me much pleasure in reporting the zeal and painstaking which has been exhibited, not only by the sundry Resident Magistrates—in furthering this work, and affording me information on various subjects connected with the resources and statistics of the several Districts—but also by the Police, as most of the Returns bear the marks of careful supervision and correction.

It is not necessary for me to make any remarks in this letter on any of the Returns which I have compiled, as the Report seems a more appropriate place for explanation and comment.

I have the honor to be, sir,

Your Most Obedient Servant,

WM. KNIGHT,

Registrar General.

PART I. CENSUS.

THE decennial Census enumeration was taken for the night of the 31st of March, 1870 ; and in this Colony, where a small population is scattered over an immense extent of Territory, it required no ordinary care and management to secure the proper delivery and subsequent collection of the Census Papers. The forms were printed and issued under my direction, a sufficient number for the requirements of each District were sent to the several Resident Magistrates, and they were issued and recovered by the Police, under the supervision of the Magistrates ; and I will now proceed to give, in a condensed form, the leading point of the information embodied in the appended Tables.

POPULATION.

The population of Western Australia, as shown by the Census of the 31st of March, 1870, was 24,785, of whom 15,375 were males and 9,410 females ; and included in these numbers there were 1,470 male prisoners, either in prisons or at working depots in various parts of the Colony, as also 1,244 prisoners having tickets-of-leave, and 1,244 having conditional pardons or releases, either in the service of settlers, or gaining their living on their own account. [TABLE NO. I.]

Table No. 1 shows the distribution of this population through the several Districts of the Colony, and it is necessary to remark that the divisional boundaries of each District are those recognized in the Survey Office as the boundaries of the several Residencies, and the enumeration has been in every respect in accordance therewith. Perth contains 20.20 per cent. of the whole numbers, and Fremantle 12.96 per cent., and the two Districts combined 33.16 per cent., or as nearly as possible one third of the entire population.

The ascertained numbers in 1869, as compared with the population of 1859, shows a total increase of 9,948, or 67.04 per cent. ; and of the sexes, 5,853 males, or 61.46 per cent., and 4,095 females, or 77.04 per cent.

A comparative Table, NO. 2, shows the population for each District on the 31st December, 1859, and on the 31st of March, 1870, with the numerical and centesimal increases. [TABLE No. II.]

When the Census of 1859 was taken, there was included in the population a Company of Military, with their wives and families, amounting to 293 males, and 181 females, since which time they have been removed from the Colony, and their departure of course alters the calculation of increase.

No separate Return has been made of the Pensioners, as they and their families are included in the Returns as portions of the general population ; but it is interesting to know that, altogether, they form a total of 2,112, or 8.48 per cent. of the population, 295 of the men are employed on military duty, and 248 are dispersed as settlers.

This contains a statement of the ages of the population in the several Districts, given in periods of from 5 to 10 years, and distinguishing infants from adults. [TABLE NO. III.]

Table No. 4 shows the distribution of 1,470 male prisoners, with their respective ages and religious denominations. [TABLE NO. IV.]

Table No. 5 shows the division of the people in their Religious Denominations, and the centesimal proportion of each class to the whole may be stated as follows, viz:— [TABLE NO. V.]

Table No. 6 shows the country of birth of the whole population, exclusive of 1470 prisoners. [TABLE NO. VI.]

Table No. 7 shows the occupation of the male population of the Colony, and the number of female domestic servants. [TABLE NO. VII.]

Table No. 8 shows the state of Education throughout the Colony, by which it appears that out of the population of 19,827 above 5 years of age, 13,326, or 67.22 per cent., could read and write ; 2,556, or 12.89 per cent., could read only ; and 3,945, or 18.89 per cent., could neither read nor write. [TABLE NO. VIII.]

Table No. 9 shows the numbers and description of the Dwelling Houses and Outbuildings in the several Districts, there being, on the whole, 3,500 inhabited houses, and 3,120 outbuildings, some of which are inhabited, but the principal portion comprises stables, barns, and other buildings required for agricultural or manufacturing purposes. The Dwelling Houses are classified according to the number of rooms and the materials of which they are constructed, there being as follows :— [TABLE NO. IX.]

Of Houses with less than 4 rooms 2116

Of Houses with from 4 to 6 rooms 790

Of Houses with 6 rooms and upwards 371

Of Houses of 2 stories and upwards 223

Table No. 10 is a Return of the social condition of the population, showing the relative numbers of persons under and over 15 years of age ; the number of married people, widowers, widows, and single persons above 15 years of age, but not including the 1,470 prisoners. The classification shows the following proportions :— [TABLE NO. X.]

Under 15 years of age, 50.40 per cent. are males, and 49.60 per cent. females

Over 15 years of age, 65.62 per cent are males, and 34.38 per cent. females

Of the total population of 23,315, 59.69 per cent. are males, and 41.36 per cent. are females

Of the total population 39.27 per cent. are under 15 years, and 60.73 per cent. over 15 years.

The married people are 28.82 per cent. of the whole

The unmarried above 15 years, 76.93 per cent. are males, and 23.07 per cent. females.

This Return shows a great and lamentable disproportion of the sexes, which arises form the importation of male convicts, and the absence of sufficient female immigration Under 15 years of age the respective numbers are nearly equal, but the great disproportion is chiefly remarkable in the class of unmarried adults, the relative numbers being 5,682 males and 1,443 females, being an excess of 4,239 males, or 18.18 per cent. of the entire population.

This Table shows the centesimal proportions of the population, inclusive of prisoners, except in the case of adult males, where the prisoners are not calculated. It embraces the classification of Married and Single, Infants and Adults, Condition, Religion, and Occupation, and is of much importance as showing the social and relative [TABLE NO. XI.]

Position of the social classes of the people to each other ; and some remarks seem necessary in explanation of some portions of the Table.

The number of probation prisoners, ticket-of-leave holders, and pensioners have been checked by, and are in accord with Official Returns. All other particulars have been obtained by the enumeration from the Census papers, and the small number of men returned under the head of Expirees cannot fail to attract notice. The Enumerators, however, have had no alternative but to abstract the information given. It is quite natural, and it might also be said laudable, that men of that class, having paid the penalty of the Law for their offences, and now become free, and thriving colonists, should endeavour to lose sight of the stigma which attaches itself to the name of Expiree. It is possible, from official records, to obtain an approximation to the actual numbers, making due allowance for Deaths and Departures, but it would have been impracticable, either for the Police or for the Enumerators, to correct the Census Papers.

It is now 21 years since the first Convicts landed, and this long interval of time has afforded ample opportunity to a large proportion, firstly by Tickets-of-leave, secondly as holders of Conditional Pardons, and finally as Expirees, to secure homes and a good position in the public opinion, and many of them are now men of substance ; and in my opinion it is not to be regretted that so few have reported themselves as of that class. The criminal distinction is legally abolished ; and after 21 years experience of the general good conduct of these men, it seems unnecessary to keep up any further record of their former position.

The Convict System introduced into the Colony of Western Australia was framed on just, humane, and Christian principles, the great object aimed at in the disciplinary arrangements of the Establishment being the reformation, instruction, and future welfare of the men, and the large proportion reclaimed and absorbed in the general population, and the infrequency of crime, as indicated by Return No. 47, of prisoners convicted in the Supreme Court during the past 10 years, are the best proofs that the system has been judiciously and efficiently carried out, and borne good fruit.

Table No. 11 shows the quantity of Land in cultivation in each District of the Colony, in acres, with the quantity of Land fenced in, as also the Vintage in the year 1869 ; and, in connection therewith, No. 12 shows the progressive state of Agriculture for 11 years, and notice will be taken of this subject, under the head of cultivation, in the General Statistics. [TABLES NOS. XI & XII.]

Table No. 13 contains the account of Live Stock in the various Districts of the Colony on the 31st of March ; and No. 14 shows a comparison of the numbers of each description of Live Stock from the year 1859, in each year, by which it may be seen that the respective increases and per centages have been as follows, viz :— [TABLES NOS. XIII and XIV.]

Horses, from 8386 to 23,012, or 174.41 per cent.

Cattle, from 30,990 to 47,263, or 52.18 per cent.

Sheep, from 234, 815 to 654,054, or 178.54 per cent.

Pigs, from 11,430 to 16,120, or 41.03 per cent.

Goats, from 2,285 to 4,434, or 94 per cent.

Table No. 15 contains a return of Mills, Manufactories, Machinery and Implements, there being 58 Flour Mills of steam and other powers, 13 Steam Saw Mills, and a great variety of agricultural implements, such as Reaping and Mowing Machines, indicative of improvement in the mode of farming. [TABLE NO. XV.]

PART II.

GENERAL STATISTICS.

SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION.

By Returns Nos. 16 and 16a may be seen the progress which has been made in the Government Schools of the Colony, from the first commencement of the present system of Education, in 1856, to the close of the past year. In the first year there were eleven Schools only, confined to the principal towns, having an aggregate number of 429 scholars on the Rolls ; at the present time there are 55 schools, having an aggregate of 2,188 scholars. [TABLES NOS. XVI. AND XVIa.]

The system adopted in the Government Schools corresponds in its main features with the National system of Ireland, modified to a certain extent to meet the special requirements and circumstances of the Colony ; the primary object having been to secure, on the basis of religion, a sound and serviceable Education for the children of the middle and lower classes, without any distinction of religious sect.

The extensive development and enlargement of the number of Schools and Pupils will show that the system is, generally speaking, approved of, and has been extremely beneficial in the rural districts, and of great importance in its influence on the general well-being of the Colony.

The General Board of Education is presided over by the Honorable F. P. Barlee, as Chairman, with the Lord Bishop of Perth and the Wesleyan and Congregational Ministers as Members, Mr. E. L. Courthope being Secretary ; and in each District of the Colony there is a Local Board in correspondence with the General one, and much of the success which has attended their labors may be attributed to the earnetness of purpose and untiring zeal which have always characterized the proceedings of the Board. It was originally designed that the Roman Catholic Bishop residing in Perth should also be a member of the Board, but he has refused to give his support to a system of Education which, on account of religious scruples, is not encouraged by the Roman Catholic community.

There is still, however, much to be done, as may be indicated by Return No. 8, showing a great number of persons in the list of those who can neither read nor write ; but, from my own personal inspection of the Census Papers, I may state that a large majority of this list is comprised of persons beyond the age for receiving education, and who arrived in the Colony in that condition.

In reference to the coast of this branch of the service, the expenditure for 1869 was £3,526, and the cost of Education per head, calculated on the number of children on the Rolls, is £1 13s. 1d., and on the average daily attendance £2 3s. 1d., which, by comparison with other colonies, may be deemed a very moderate rate.

The value of Education, in its effects on the welfare and progress of the country, seems to be very well appreciated by the people, judging not merely by the success of

Government measures, but also by the number of private schools which are established in various parts of the Colony, and by the vast numbers of children who attend the Sunday Schools, which are in operation all over the Colony, and may be ranked amongst the most valuable institutions, as conferring mutual benefits to pupils and teachers, and cementing together the different classes of the people.

In the City of Perth a Church of England Collegiate School has been established, for the purpose of securing in the Colony a means of obtaining a thorough classical education. This school has been incorporated by an Act of Council, and placed under a Body of Guardians, with the Lord Bishop of Perth at its head. It owes its origin and progress to His Lordship, who, animated no doubt by a high estimate of its value to the rising youth of the Colony, has spared neither labor nor expense in securing its firm establishment. It is under the charge of the Rev. F. A. Hare, as Head Master, and the numbers of scholars are now sufficient to render it self-supporting.

The Misses Cowan have a large Boarding Establishment for Young Ladies, which is well conducted. From an early period of the Colony's history, great attention has been paid by the Roman Catholics in Perth to scholastic measures, and the Schools which they have established have been of great value to the community, owing their attraction and success principally to the abilities and devotedness of the Sisters of Mercy.

REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE.

Tables No. 17 and 18 exhibit the Returns of Revenue and Expenditure of the Colony for 11 years to the 31st December 1869, including the year 1859, which was embraced in the Statistical Return of the last Census. [TABLES NOS. XVII. and XVIII.]

These Returns are drawn out in accordance with the arrangements of the Annual Estimates of the Legislative Council, and afford a detailed account of the various Heads of Service, both of Revenue and Expenditure.

The gross Revenue of the year 1859 was £57,945, and that of 1869, £103,662, so that, by a gradual development, it has increased 78.87 per cent. ; and as the Customs Revenue is generally considered a fair criterion of the true progress of a country, it may be noted as having advanced generally 174.96 per cent. Of the sub-heads of Customs, the duty on Spirits has increased 61.77 per cent. ; Wines, 133.26 per cent. ; Beer, 208.28 per cent. ; Tobacco, 36.13 per cent. ; and Goods ad valorem, 106.51 per cent. Under this Head of Customs appears the important item of Sandalwood, which, with a duty of 5s. per ton, realized, in 1859, £22, and last year amounted to £1,032, or equivalent to 4,128 tons exported, of a marketable value of about £33,000, in China and elsewhere.

Of the Miscellaneous items of Revenue, it may be observed that Harbour Dues have preserved an average of about £11,000, and Land Sales about £8,000 per annum.

Pastoral Leases and Licenses of Crown Land have increased from £4,721 in 1859, to £10,463 in 1869, and Tillage Leases, which of all modes of Land tenure in this Colony has produced the most marked and beneficial effect in the progress of the Colony, have increased from £712 in 1859, to £3,707 in 1869.

Postages have advanced from £254 to £4,637 ; Judicial Fines from £937 to £1,532. There are two new items of Revenue which have arisen recently, viz., Contributions to Seab Ordinance, and Interest on Savings' Bank Loans and on Bank Deposits, the former of which last year amounted to £1,236, and the latter pound1,286.

No. 19 Shows the Imperial Expenditure in the Colony for Military, Convict, and Civil Services for the same period, the totals of which, in the years 1859 and 1869, were respectively £92,072 and £107,024. [TABLE NO. XIX.]

Table No. 18, of the General Expenditure of the Colony, shows an increase under the head of Establishments, from £29,918 in 1859, to £50,534 in 1869, or 68.90 per cent.; but as the Salary of the Governor in 1859, and in the subsequent years to 1868, was drawn in England, and in 1869 paid in the Colony—the amount being £1,800—it is necessary to make due allowance for this alteration, so that, by adding that amount [TABLE NO. XVIII.]

to the expenditure of 1859, the per centage of increase would be reduced to 59.07 per cent.; and as the increase of Population, shown by Table No. 2, is equal to 67.04 per cent., the advance in expenditure for the Civil Establishments is in a fair proportion to the increase of numbers. The Expenditure for the Services Exclusive of Establishments, has increased from £25,000 to £52,590, or 110.36 per cent. But the extent of Expenditure in some of these Services has always been to a great extent regulated by the condition of the Revenue, and this principle applies more especially to the Public Works Department ; and by a comparison of the two years it will be seen that in 1859 the amount expended was only £8,264, and in 1869 £22,091, being an excess of £13,827 in the latter year.

IMPORTS AND EXPORTS.

Two Returns, Nos. 20 and 21, have been prepared on this important branch of the statistics of the Colony. No. 20, of "Imports," is classified under the heads of Food, Clothing, Spirits, Wines, Tobacco, Beer, and Miscellaneous Articles in detail, No. 21 of all "Exports" in detail ; and each Return embraces a period of 10 years. [TABLES NOS. XX. and XXI.]

The general Imports of the Colony have increased from £169,075, in 1860, to the sum of £256,729, or about 52 per cent. Under the head of Food, there has been a large increase of about 100 per cent., the value in 1860 being £40,628, and in 1869 £81,151, and a large proportion of this increase is chargeable to the failure of grain crops in the year 1868, from Red Rust, which is very clearly indicated by reference to the two items of "Corn," and "Flour, Meal, and Bread," the former of which was £439 in 1860, and £4323 in 1869, and the other £2567 as against £15,344, or a net increase of £16,661. And this large outlay for Flour, &c., is altogether attributable to the failure of the cereal crops, as up to the year 1868, by a reference to the Export Returns, it will be seen that the Colony had not only produced a sufficient quantity of grain to be independent of foreign supplies, but had established a considerable export, the Flour exported in 1867 amounting to £12,458, and in 1868 to £17,445 in value.

At the time when the former Census was taken, the Report gave a highly encouraging aspect as to the then condition and prospects of the Colony generally, and the course of events has not been at variance with the expectations then formed, as, up to the end of 1867, no calamities or reverses had retarded the onward progress of the Colony. Since that period, a variety of causes have cast a gloom over the Australian Colonies generally, the chief of which has been the great decline in the value of Wool, the principal Export. And in this Colony, taking the quantity stated in the official reports as being exported in 1869, viz., 1,880,426 Ibs., and the depreciated value as being equal to 6d. per Ib., it shows a loss of income to the Colony of £47,000 per annum. To this loss of income was added the very extensive failure of crops in 1868, which calamity visited the Colony in a manner not understood or accounted for by the usual influence of natural causes, as, within a month of the harvest of that year, it was generally thought it would be the most productive of any previously known. The rainfall had been apparently all that could be desired in its favor. Drought, at any rate, had not been the cause of failure ; but just before the time of harvest it was suddenly discovered that, by the dispensation of Providence, a great blight of red rust had destroyed the hopes of the agriculturalist and the fruits of his labor.

The Exports of the Colony show a gradual increase from £89,286, in 1860, to £205,502 in 1869, or equal to about 130 per cent. of increase. And, in looking over the items of Exports, there is much to indicate a great variety of natural productions ; and although some of the principal articles—such as Timber, Lead, and Copper Ore—present great fluctuations in quantities, and not much advance, there are some articles—such as Sandalwood and Gum—which have maintained a steady and extensive development ; and in 1869 the shipment of Sandalwood was to the value of £32,998 ; and this trade is of immense value to the Colony, not only in the amount of labor engaged in it, but it is a marketable exchange for all our Tea, Sugar, and various supplies from the ports of the Indian and China Seas. New articles of Exports have presented themselves from the shores of the North-west Coast, in Pearl Shells and Tortese Shell, and sufficient

is now known, both of the quantities which may be collected and of the prices to be realized in the English market, to form some correct estimate of their probable value as regular articles of Export. The Pearl Shells are of the best and finest description, and as such have obtained the highest price in the English market, some of the last shipments having realized £10 10s. per cwt which price affords a highly profitable return to the parties engaged in the collection, although carried out in the most imperfect manner. Reliable reports from the fishing grounds off Port Walcott state, that recent investigations have proved that the beds of Oysters are almost unlimited in extent and quantity. Previous labours had been confined to the collection of shells at the reflux of the tides, in shallow water, but the natives of the District, who are employed in the service, are able, by diving, to obtain them in places which had been thought to be inaccessible. A confident expectation has therefore been formed that the shipment of shells in the next year will be so extensive as to become one of our principal exports. In regard to the Hawks-bill Turtle, from which the Tortoise Shell is procured, there is stated to be an immense number to be found on all the Islands of the Coast, but no extensive or systematic collection has been hitherto attempted, in consequence of a want of knowledge of the marketable value of the shell ; but the information received recently from England has determined the question of value, the best description being quoted at 16s. to 18s. per Ib. With the knowledge of this, parties are prepared to go largely into the undertaking.

By some general consent, the resources which nature has bestowed on this Colony are becoming known and appreciated in foreign markets, and principally amongst these may be ranked our unlimited forests of Jarrah Timber, and the numerous Copper and Lead Mines of the Victoria District.

The Timber Trade seems in a fair way to assume large dimensions, as two companies have been formed to carry out extensive operations, with all the appliances which steam power, railways, and shipping convenience can afford, the want of which has hitherto prevented it from being a profitable application of labor. Of the two companies referred to, one has been formed at Melbourne, and is about to commence operations at Geographe Bay. A considerable export trade in Timber has been carried out at this place for some years, but from the want of those appliances, which can be obtained only by the investment of a large capital, it has not been very remunerative. Mr. Simpson, who has been mainly instrumental in the formation of this company, has chosen this spot after due consideration of its relative advantages in reference to quantity of Timber, physical advantages for railways, and the facilities for shipment. The construction of a sea jetty is the first work to be undertaken, and Geographe Bay has been proved a safe and convenient Harbor for shipping, and in the official report to the Admiralty it is described as follows :— " On the East side of Cape Naturalist, the shore bends round South-eastward, and forms several small sandy bights, separated from each other by rocky points. Geographe Bay is 11 leagues across, in an E. by N. direction to Leschenault Inlet, and 5 leagues in depth, with 3 fathoms water at a mile from the shore, where vessels employed in Bay Whaling, or in embarking Timber for exportation, find good anchorages, notwithstanding their exposure to winds of the winter months. The chief place of resort for shipping is an anchorage in 3 to 5 fathom water, 1 or 2 miles off the mouth of the Vasse Inlet, about 8 leagues S.S.E. ½ S. from Cape Naturalist."

The other Company, it is reported, has been formed in India by the advice and influence of Mr. Richmond, who recently visited the Colony and formed his judgment of the quantity and quality of the Timber, and of the natural facilities for shipment. The latter point must always be of great importance in the consideration of the value of an export of such a bulky and weighty material as timber ; and fortunately for the success of this undertaking, there is in Cockburn Sound a magnificent Harbor which has been selected as the port of shipment. This Harbor has been known from the first days of the Colony's history, and it was at one time thought that it would be made the principal port, but the advantages of river transport to Perth decided the point in favor of the roadstead at Fremantle. Of late years its advantages have been lost sight of,

until, on a recent occasion, they have been prominently brought to notice in a report by W. T. Doyne, Esquire, Civil Engineer, who had been invited to this Colony to examine the Harbors and Anchorages connected with the Port of Fremantle, and to report on the feasibility of sundry plans and suggestions for the construction of artificial moles, &c.

In the official Admiralty report it is stated that "In the Southern part of Cock-burn Sound, fronting Careening Cove, is Mangles Bay, 4 miles across from Cape Person to Point James, and 1½ miles deep. In the South part of this Bay, which is the water frontage of the town of Rockingham, 8 or 9 fathoms of water are found within a few yards of the beach. The holding ground is a good tenacious clay, and great natural facilities present themselves for landing and discharging Cargo." Mr. Doyne states "that the largest vessels could lie alongside of a jetty of moderate length, and where they would be opposite to, and about 20 to 25 miles distant from, the heart of the great Jarrah Forrest, which runs North and South along the Darling Range." After enumerating the great advantages which Mangles Bay possesses, both as regards security of anchorage and its facilities for landing or receiving cargo, he says : "that the advantages are not limited to these points, but that a very large increase of shipments must quickly follow, and the improved safety and dispatch, with the certainty of finding a cargo ready for them, will induce many ship-masters to call at the port who otherwise would not do so. Thus freight, insurance, and demurrage will all be reduced to a minimum, and the profits derived from the prices obtainable in the markets increased proportionately. In fact, by there means, including railway communication with the Jarrah Forrest, an enormous profitable export trade, such as there is no parallel for in the Australian Colonies, except gold, will be created in a few years." In a recent communication he further states : "Since I wrote my report, I have gained much information respecting the opinions of the Engineers of South Australia and Victoria on the subject, and I am quite satisfied that if they could count with certainty upon a ready supply of Jarrah, properly cur and seasoned, they would use it very extensively, but they fear to specify while doubts rest on these points." Its generally good qualities, added to its unique power to resist the ravages of the white ant and the various sea worms, must secure for it a world-wide demand where such dangers exist, and secure a place for it not only in the markets of India, but of Europe, and probably elsewhere.

The Jarrah Timber for export has been chiefly furnished by the establishments of Mr. B. Mason at the Canning, and Mr. Yelverton's at Geographe Bay ; and this trade has been carried on in the face of difficulties which only great courage and perseverance could have overcome. The difficulties of transport and shipment, and the constant destruction of cattle and machinery from accidents, are the principal causes of loss. Mr. Mason has furnished me with some particulars of his operations. He says that for several years his timber trade was carried on by hand labor, but the large demand which has sprung up has induced him to erect two steam saw-mills, one on the Darling Range, in the heart of the Jarrah Forrest, and the other on the banks of the Canning River, whence the Timber is conveyed by boats to the port of shipment. The former is a portable engine of 12-horse power, driving a 40-inch circular saw, and the other is a 10-horse power engine, working a vertical frame of four or more saws, and a 3 feet circular saw. The total number of men employed is 138, twenty-nine of whom are married, and their children number 83, all of whom reside at the stations. The weekly consumption of provisions is about 1½ ton of flour, ¾ of a ton of meat, ½ ton of sugar, 1 cwt. of tea, ½ ton of potatoes, 40 Ibs. of tobacco, and for forage 4 tons of hay, and 65 bushels of barley ; the money expenditure, in addition, being about £200 a week.

There is another article of export which ought to make a better show in the list, and that is Whale-oil. From the earliest days of the Colony, American whaling vessels have swarmed on our coast, and I have seen 14 large vessels of this description anchored in Koombana Bay, off Bunbury, at the same time, and during the past 10 years there have been an average number of 19 American whaling ships fishing off the coast, and calling in at various ports for supplies, besides numbers on the North-west coast that are only casually heard of. In fact, from Camden Harbour, on the North, to the

extreme boundaries of the Colony on the Southern Coast, whales are to be found in great numbers, the right whales on the feeding grounds in the bays, and the sperm in large schools off the shore. The Resident Magistrate at Busselton, writing on this subject, asserts that whales have rapidly increased on this coast during the past 3 years, and thinks there will be a large fleet of whalers of the coast next year. From Albany, it is stated that "whaling operations are carried on to a considerable extent off this Coast by American ships ; and whilst foreigners are enabled to collect oil in such quantities as to make it worth their while to cruize for whales in seas so remote, there is not in this District enterprize or energy sufficient to fit out a single vessel for this purpose. A gentleman from Tasmania is about to establish himself at Albany, and to fit out a vessel from this port for whaling operations." Mr. McKail, on this subject, says this part of the Coast is a favorite cruising ground for American whale-ships engaged in sperm whaling, and during the past two seasons they have taken about 4,000 barrels of oil, the value of which is from forty to fifty thousand pounds.

The Consular Agent of the United States at Albany being referred to on this subject, writes that "The Whaling operations carried on by ships sailing under the American flag are as follows : During the years 1868 and 1869 there have arrived in this port, in each year, six different whalers, whose maximum tonnage was 408 tons, and the minimum 183 tons, carrying, as crews, from 23 to 35 hands, all told. These vessels put in here for supplies about three times a year, remaining in port to "recruit" and fill up their water casks, which takes them, on an average, from a fortnight to three weeks time ; a great deal of petty trading used to be done by them, but this dwindled away since the Co-operative Society was established."

"For the last two years whaling operations off the coast have proved most renumerative to the adventures concerned, as several ships have returned from whence they came (New Bedford, U.S.A.) full of oil. The last vessel, the Vigilant, sailed from this port in January last (having been away about two years) with fourteen hundred barrels of sperm oil. She is commanded by Capt. A. Baker, who is designated amongst his friends as 'the Commodore of the American Whaling Squadron stationed off the Coast of New Holland." Again he states "that the generality of these whalers have some rule laid down to guide them, making their cruising ground from about 100 miles to the eastward of King George's Sound to Cape Leuwin, and going always to and fro, as the wind listeth." He has heard it stated that as good a spot as any is about 20 miles to the southward of Breaksea Island Light House. If so, what a lesson to the energetic capitalist of this Colony. For here, outside the threshold of our door, is unlimited, unbounded wealth, taken annually away by a strange nation, thousands of miles away.

TRADE AND INTERCHANGE.

Five Tables are occupied by information relating to Shipping.

No. 24 and 25 show the numbers, tonnage and crews of vessels entered inwards and cleared outwards at the Ports of Western Australia, classified according to " Countries whence arrived," and "Countries to which cleared," during the period of 10 years since the taking of the previous Census. [TABLES NOS. XXII., XXIII., XXIV., XXV., and XXVI.]

The total inwards in 1860 was 109 vessels, of 54,564 tonnage, and in 1869, 119 vessels, of 62,705 Tonnage, being an increase of 10 vessels and 8,141 tonnage. The total outwards was 126 vessels, of 62,615 Tonnage, in the year 1860, and 135 vessels of 65,812 tonnage, in 1869 ; being an increase of 9 vessels and 3,197 tonnage.

In the year 1860 there were, however, 38 American Vessels entered and cleared, principally engaged in whaling off the coast ; in 1869 there were 15 only, so that as regards vessels with cargoes, including mail steamers, the comparison would be 88 vessels, of 48,870 Tons, cleared out in 1860, as against 120 vessels, of 62,343 tons, in 1869 ; being an increase, in 1869, of 32 vessels and 13,473 tonnage.

The Returns No. 22 and 23 correspond with the others in regard to the numbers, tonnage, and crews of vessels, but they represent the entries and clearances at each of the Ports of the Colony. By these Returns it will be seen that the Port of Albany takes the pre-eminence in numbers, arising out of the arrivals and departures of the mail steamers and coaling vessels connected with the Peninsular and Oriental Company, and it may be of some interest to afford some information of the magnitude of the operations of that Company at King George's Sound.

The permanent establishment comprises one Agent, who has sole charge and control, 2 officers, 3 subordinate officers, 4 mechanics, and 45 to 50 men constantly employed, to which are added extra hands occasionally employed, at six shillings each for day work, and ten shillings for night work. The floating plant consists of 2 hulks, of 800 and 200 tons, 4 iron barges, each 100 tons, 2 lighters of 50 tons each, an anchor launch, a floating dock, and 12 boats of various descriptions. The annual local expenditure averages as follows : wages, £5,800 per annum ; provisions for steamers, £740, and Port dues £240. An Agency House, of the value of £1,800, was built in 1867, and large sums have been expended in jetties, &c. The vessels bringing coal cause a disbursement for ballast of £480, for provisions, £630, for Port Dues, £200. The quantity of coal landed, from January, 1861, to 31st December, 1869, was 80,747 tons, and the quantity supplied to her Majesty's ships and mail steamers, 84,843 tons. The coal ships numbered 57 vessels, the smallest of which borught 634 tons, and the largest 2,351 tons.

The mail steamers now employed on the Australian line average 1,670 tons, and are allowed to remain 24 hours at the Sound, if necessary, but the average stay does not exceed 15 hours, and the coals are put on board at an average rate of 25 tons per hour. The value of the ships may be taken at about £90,000 each, and the property of the Company afloat and on shore at King George's Sound varies in value from £25,000 to £30,000, according to the quantity of coal at the depot.

In connection with this subject it may be stated that the South Australian Government, in the year 1861, entered into an engagement with the Australian Steam Navigation Company for the conveyance of their English Mails to and from the ships of the P. & O. Company at King George's Sound, and have from that time efficiently performed the service monthly—with two exceptions, by reason of accidents to machinery.

Form No. 26 gives a Return of the value of Imports and Exports from and to the several countries having trading connections with the Colony, from which it will be seen that great changes have occurred during the past 10 years, in the relative extent of trading which has taken place with the various countries referred to, and especially in regard to the mercantile supplies imported at secondhand from the Colonies of Victoria and South Australia. The general imports from these places, which in 1860 were respectively valued at £1,098 and £7,614, in 1869 amounted to the large sums of £38,025 and £49,406, whilst the Imports direct from England have not increased. It has long been seen and observed that the system was founded on wrong principles, and recent transactions have clearly shown that the encouragement given to speculative adventures has not proved beneficial to either importers or consignees. The goods thus imported come firstly from England, and must be encumbered by many additional charges of commission, extra freight, &c., incidental to a second shipment, and without calculating the expense of maintaining Commercial Travellers. Surely our merchants ought to be in a position to import the requirements of the market direct from England, as it must be apparent to every one the goods received by such a circuitous channel must be either dearer in price, or deficient in good quality, to cover the additional expenses.

In reference to the Shipping of the Colony, it may be useful to record some information as to the number of vessels registered at the Custom House at Fremantle, some of which are engaged in the traffic with England, as also to and from the Indian ports ; but the principal number are employed in the extensive Coasting Trade of the

Colony, which has so much increased of late years, others in the Pearl Fishery, and about 20 as cargo-boats in discharging ships at the port of Fremantle, and conveying goods to and from the towns of Perth and Fremantle,—two of which are steamers conveying also passengers, one of 24 tons and the other 11 tons.

The number so registered are as follows :—

making a total of 57 vessels, with an aggregate amount of 2707 tons.

LAND.

Several Returns connected with this important subject have been prepared, and will be found numbered 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31, showing respectively the area of the country, the extent of Land granted by the Crown in fee simple, either in consideration of Location Duties performed by the settlers, or in right of purchase, as also of all Lands occupied under Lease or other tenure under the Land Regulations, in the various Districts of the Colony. [TABLES NOS. XXVII., XXVIII., XXIX., XXX., and XXXI.]

The Land Regulations of Western Australia have gone through a variety of changes, and it seems desirable, on the present occasion, to take a brief retrospect thereof, as being closely connected with the rise and progress of the Colony.

By the favorable representations made by Sir James Stirling, in 1827, of the climate and natural capabilities of the Western Coast of Australia, the Home Government resolved to form a settlement, to be centralized at the Swan River ; and consequently Sir James was entrusted with the command of an expeditionary party of officials and others, and arrived in Gage's Roads and landed on the 1st of June, 1829.

Every inducement was given to intending settlers, by liberal and tempting offers for the acquisition of Land. Various Circulars were issued from the Colonial Office, distinguished as Circulars A, B, C, and D, each one in its turn modifying or restricting the liberality of the terms.

The Original Grants under Circular A were, to

Mr. Thomas Peel 250,000 acres.

Colonel Latour 103,000 acres.

Sir James Stirling 100,000 acres.

Circular B, dated 13th January, 1829, entitled settlers to grants of land at the rate of one acre for every 1s. 6d. of the capital invested, subject to improvement to the satisfaction of Colonial Government, within 21 years, or forfeiture at the end of the period.

Circular C applied to all Immigrants arriving after December, 1830, and granted land at the rate of one acre for every 3s. of capital invested, and 100 acres for every servant introduced, limiting the time of improvements to 4 years, with a fine of 1s. per acre if not improved in two years, and a reversion to the Crown if not improved to the full extent at the end of the 4 years.

Circular D appeared on the 1st of March, 1831, doing away with all free grants, except in the cases of Officers in the Army and Navy selling out or retiring on half-pay for the purpose of settling ; and authorizing the sale in fee simple of Crown Lands, at the minimum rate of 5s. per acre.

In consequence of the difficulties encountered by the early settlers, and the depressed state of the general condition of the Colony, the Government took a liberal view as to enforcing fines, and parties desirous of obtaining a full title were allowed the

following modifications ; either by surrendering their Lands and obtaining a remission in fresh purchases of 3 acres for every 10 surrendered, or for any quantity surrendered a grant in fee of 3 acres for every 10 acres so surrendered ; and under this Regulation 316,749 acres of Land were surrendered, entitling the settlers to 95,025 acres in fee.

By reference to Return No. 30, it will be seen that under the Regulations for free grants, or grants without purchase, 443 sections of Land have been granted in fee simple, embracing a total quantity of 1,200, 132frac 12; acres ; and there are outstanding, in occupancy, 17 grants, with a total of 581½ acres.

In July, 1841, the price of Land was raised to 12s. per acre, and but few sales were made at that price.

The price was subsequently, in the same year, raised to 20s. per acre, in blocks of not less than 160 acres, with a right of commonage. In 1843, the Land Sales Act. 5th and 6th of Victoria. cap. 36, was proclaimed, and sundry changes were made limiting the quantity within the maximum of 640 and the minimum of 160 acres, allowing special applications for 20,000 acres, retaining the price of one-pound per acre.

In the month of April, 1860, a new set of Regulations came into operation, having many important features and alterations, the principal changes being a reduction of the minimum price to 10s. per acre, and the quantity to 40 acres.

The existing Land Regulations were proclaimed in August, 1864, and Special Regulations for Mining Leases, and for the occupation of Land in the far North and Eastern Districts, in January, 1865. It is not necessary here to publish the Regulations in detail, but they may be shortly summarised :

SALE OF CROWN LANDS.

The Crown Lands are classified as Town, Suburban, Country, and Mineral.

Town and Suburban Lands are sold by Auction, at upset prices regulated by the Governor.

Ordinary Country Lands are sold at the fixed price of 10s. per acre, to the first bond fide applicant for the same, in lots not less than 40 acres each.

A deposit of one-tenth the purchase money is payable when the Land is applied for, and the balance within one month afterwards, with title deed fee of £1.

Remissions granted to Military or Naval Officers and Men.

PASTORAL LAND.

For Pastoral purposes, the Crown Lands are divided into Class A and Class B ; and in the North and East Districts, into Classes A and C.

Class A lands are let for one year only, under Depasturing Licenses.

Annual Rent 2s. per 100 acres. And no license fee.

No License issued for less than one pound.

Full annual rent to be paid on application.

Holders of Land in Fee Simple, of not less than 10 acres, within a Class A License, have a right to run gratuitously within such license one head of great stock for every 10 acres so held, and so long as said land may be let for Pastoral purposes.

Lands in Class B are situate outside of certain defined Boundaries, and are let on Pastoral Leases of eight years. These Leases are not renewable, but the lessees thereof have a preferable claim for renewal.

No lease to contain more than 10,000 acres, but any number of Leases may be granted to the same persons. The annual rent for a Lease is £5, and 10s. per thousand acres for the Land contained therein.

Leases are granted without competition.

These Leases contain pre-emptive rights of purchase of any portion of the Land (not less than 40 acres) during the 1st year.

After the 1st year of a Lease, all unsold land is open to general selection for purchase.

Homesteads may be selected by Lessee during the first year, at the rate of two acres for every acre of run, with a right of purchase of any part thereof within the first three years.

Purchasers of Lands within B Leases have the same right of depasturing cattle as in Class A Licenses.

TILLAGE LEASES.

Lands for Tillage purposes are let on leases for 8 years. No lease to contain more than 320 acres. Any number of Leases may be granted to the same person. The annual rent is one shilling per acre, payable in advance, but no Lease is granted for a less sum than £5, except for the last half of a year.

NORTH AND EAST DISTRICTS.

Lands in these Districts are disposed of on more liberal terms than in any other parts of Western Australia.

The North District is comprised between the Sea Coast and the meridian of 120 deg. East longitude, and to the North of the River Murchison, and of a true East line through Mount Murchison.

The East District is comprised between the meridians of 121 deg. and 129 deg. East longitude, and between the South Coast and latitude 30 degrees South.

The Lands are divided into Class A for annual License, and Class C for more extended occupation. Class A comprises all land within two miles of the Sea Coast, and Class C the remainder. The rent of Class A Lands is 5s. per 1000 acres for the first 4 years, and 10s. per 1000 acres for each of the second 4 years.

Class C Lands are let on Pastoral Lease for 8 years, commencing 1st of January next after application.

The rents of Class C Leases are at the rate of 5s. per 1000 acres for each of the first 4 years and 10s. per 1000 acres for each of the second 4 years, with a fee of £5 at the commencement of each Lease, but not after the first year.

MINERAL LANDS.

Lands known or supposed to contain Minerals are termed "Mineral Lands," and are sold as such to the first applicant for the same, in lots of not less than 80 acres each, and at the fixed price of £3 per acre, payable by a deposit of £1 per acre at the time of application, and of a similar amount on the same date in each of the two following years.

LICENSES TO TEST MINERAL LAND.

Any person desirous of testing the mineral qualities of Land previously to purchase may obtain a Mining License for one year, subject to renewal for a second year, at the option of the Governor. The rent chargeable to be at the rate of 2s. per acre for the first year, and 4s. per acre for the second year.

No Licenses granted for a less term than one year, or for a smaller sum than £8.

The Holder of any Mining License may exchange his License for a Mining Lease for any period not exceeding ten years, and at an annual rent of 8s. per acre, paid in advance.

For the same period, and on the same terms, mining leases shall be granted to any other person on approved application.

Return No. 30 has been compiled with a considerable amount of labor, as I had to collect together materials that were dispersed, in other forms, through a large space of time. It will be found to be a correct summary of all Land transactions from the first commencement, and will afford an opportunity of forming a judgment of the comparative qualifications and natural capabilities of the several Districts of the Colony, as indicated by the extent to which Land is occupied for agricultural or pastoral purposes. Agriculture must always be naturally of the first importance in every country, and if the area of Land now in occupation for Tillage Leases in each District be a good test of the extent and value of the soil for agriculture, it will be seen that the Victoria District.

possesses great advantages over others, having 41,728 acres of land under Tillage Leases, and 9,267 acres actually under cultivation.

The District of the Avon River stands next on the list, having 16,309 acres under tillage, but the occupation of land for this purpose is not a conclusive evidence of the extent of available land ; as in the central portion of the Colony, where the settlement first commenced, more than one million acres of land were alienated from the Crown without purchase, and cannot be open to such comparison.

A reference to Return No. 11, showing the extent of Land under cultivation in each District, will afford a more correct means of coming to a decision on this point ; and it will be seen that the Victoria District, under the classification of Champion Bay, Greenough, and Irwin, has 33,457 acres, either in cultivation or cleared for that purpose ; Tooday, 21,676 ; York, 15,986 ; Wellington, 9,297 ; Swan, 6,780 ; Sussex, 3,557 ; and these several Districts may take rank, in estimating their agricultural qualification, in a ratio in accordance with this scale.

CULTIVATION.

The Return No. 11 contains, in a Tabular form, the quantities of Land under Cultivation in the various Districts of the Colony in Cereals, Gardens, Vineyards, Hay Crops, &c., and presents a highly satisfactory indication of the progress made in Agriculture and Horticulture since the last Census. By reference to Return No. 12, it will be seen that in 1859 the total quantity of Land under Cultivation was 25,800 acres, and in 1869, 50,263 acres, being an increase of about 94 per cent. The number of acres in wheat, which may be deemed the most valuable of all cereals, was, in 1859, 13,610, and in 1869, 25,963 acres, being an increase of about 91 per cent., so that during the interval of ten years, whilst the Population has increased only 67 per cent., the general cultivation of Land has increased 94 per cent., and the quantity of Land under Wheat-crop exceeded an acre to each person of the population.

In addition to the above, Return No. 10 shows 4607 acres under fallow, and the large quantity of 45,907 acres cleared for cultivation. The quantity of Land under fallow is, I have no doubt, rightly described, but the cleared Land is evidently overstated, as it is nearly equal to the entire quantity under cultivation ; and from inquiries made by me, I find that many agriculturists have included all the Land prepared for cultivation for 1870, which embraces the cropped land of 1869. I have had no choice, however, but to abstract the Returns as they have been rendered, and any error of this description does not affect the quantity of Land actually under crop. This Return also contains information not before obtained, showing that 323,244 acres of Land are fenced in, 209,237 being with substantial posts and rails, and 12,718 wire with posts, 23,460 of jam or other stakes, and 77,829 with bush fencing, and this may be taken as a great advance in grazing operations. No return has been made of the quantity of crop per acre, as the information obtained is not sufficient to fix any average of the number of bushels per acre, but according to the Blue Book the rate varies in the several Districts of the Colony from a minimum of five bushels to a maximum of twenty ; there can be no doubt, however, that the harvest of 1869 was very much below the average, and will rank among the bad seasons.

Reference has been made to the Red Rust blight of 1868, and the deficient harvest of 1869 ; and it seems pertinent here to call attention to the general testimony which I have received from all parts of the Colony of the very imperfect and unskillful manner in which the labors of Agriculture are carried out. Mr. J. H. Monger, at York, states that one cause of the languishing and impoverished condition of our farmers is the result of their own unsystematic and slovenly husbandry. With but few exceptions, the utter absence of any thing like skilful farming is everywhere apparent. Fields are cropped year after year without intermission or change ; and, without either fallowing or using manure, the land is exhausted and rendered permanently unproductive. S. E. Burges, Esq., in writing of the agricultural capabilities of the York District, says that

the alluvial land on the banks of the Avon is very productive, returning, when properly cultivated, 20 to 25 bushels of wheat, and thirty to forty of Cape barley. The dark red soil is about the same in quality, and he has known it, without any help, for 5 or 6 years to yield from 20 to 25 bushels of wheat to the acre, with bad cultivation ; and his testimony goes to prove that men who take up Tillage Leases do well for two or three years, and then the Land becomes exhausted. There seems to prevail in this Colony a great ignorance of the laws of nature, or a total disregard of the operations which are required for a successful issue to agricultural labor. Much light has been thrown on this subject of late years in England, arising out of the necessity for the farmer to compete with foreign importations.

Good oftentimes springs out of apparent evils, and when Messrs. Bright and Cobden brought into operation a free trade in Corn, it was thought by many, that the agricultural interest had been sacrified, if not destroyed, for the benefit of cheap bread to the manufacturers. Experience, however, has proved the fallacy of this, and at the present time the British farmer stands on a vantage ground never excelled. A deeper study of the principles of cultivation has led to a complete reform, and by the application of improved machinery, and an alteration of practice so as to accord with natural requirements, have produced larger Crops, and enabled the farmers generally to outsell the importer, and to have a profitable margin beyond expenses. The great reformer in agriculture, Jethro Tull, first introduced the system of drill husbandry, and proved successfully that by the application of cultivation between rows of grain, the largest Crops could be grown for any number of years without any manure, the constant stirring and comminution of the soil standing in its place by drawing to it those nutritious elements from the atmosphere which are required for the growth of plants. His system, although highly valuable in itself, was of more value in opening men's minds to the great necessity of Cultivation as a means of enriching land, and of guiding persons under the old system of agriculture to the adoption of practices in accordance therewith. The system at present in operation in this Colony (if it can be called a system) is one of exhaustion, and, if not soon replaced by more rational measures, will end in a failure.

In those parts of the Colony having large areas of the best agricultural land, the practice of cropping it with wheat year after year, without rest or without manure, is attended with the natural results of impoverishment and foulness. There is not sufficient time between harvest and seed time, even in favorable seasons, to admit of that amount of ploughing and cultivation which is required to recover the nourishment which has been withdrawn by the previous Crop, so that the young plant has to start its existence impoverished by a want of sufficient strength to contend in the struggle with weeds. The evils of the present Colonial system may be stated as follows ; Shallow Ploughing, as not affording sufficient feeding ground for the plants ; Insufficient Ploughing, as not placing the soil by friction and exposure in a condition to draw from the air, dew, and rain, those elements which are necessary for fertility ; Constant Cropping, without rest, or fallowing, or manure. To these causes may be attributed the failure of crops ; and as in the human body, so in the vegetable, a healthy and strong growth from good nourishment is necessary to ward off the attacks of disease ; and it is a good subject for inquiry whether the red rust or any other description of blight may not be attributable to the feeble life of plants grown under such unfavorable conditions. Manure has the effect of keeping open the soil by the fermentation incidental to its decay, and in all cases where farmers have not the means of manuring, the ground should be cropped only in alternate years, and the fallow land should be constantly ploughed and stirred, as every ploughing would give fresh supplies of food ; and it is constantly asserted that one acre of land, cultivated properly, would be more productive and profitable than two under the present impoverishing plan. I trust these remarks will not be deemed out of place or character, and that they may be useful in calling attention to a subject of such great importance as the cultivation of one of the great necessaries of life.

Attention is directed to the subject of Vine-culture, as indicated by these Returns.

The number of acres under cultivation have increased from 363 to 725 during the ten years, and the production for 1869 shows 29,068 gallons of Wine and 43,350 lbs. of Dried Fruit, but the quantity is by no means a fair average, as a large proportion of the Vineyards have been too recently planted to give full returns, and the past season, although good for quality, was not favorable to quantity of produce.

The Climate of Western Australia is so peculiarly adapted to the growth of the Vine, and the Vintage season so favorable to the ripening and gathering of the fruit, it may reasonably be expected that this branch of Husbandry will go on gradually increasing so as not only to supply local wants, but to produce a valuable and extensive export trade. The red wine produced by Dr. Waylen and others on the Swan is of superior quality, of the Burgundy character ; and the white wines produced by Mr. J. Drummond and Mr. W. P. Clifton are similar to Sherry, having naturally a large per centage of Spirit, being principally produced from the Pedro Ximines grape. Another white wine, of great richness and flavor, is made in the Wellington District from the Constantia grape. Raisins were sent to the Exhibition at Melbourne by Mr. Jos. Hardey and Dr. Ferguson, one of whom obtained a Medal, and the other honorable mention. The samples were much admired, and may be quoted as of the first class in any competition.

BIRTHS, DEATHS, AND MARRIAGES.

Tables numbered from 32 to 43 have been prepared on these subjects, the first three of which show the numbers in each class for the year 1869. No. 35 and 36 show the Births and Deaths, in the several Registration Districts, for a period of ten years. In No. 37 the Births and Deaths are compared for ten years, showing a balance in favor of Births of 3,910. [TABLES NOS. XXXII., XXXIII., XXXIV., XXXV., XXXVI., XXXVII., XXXVIII., XXXIX., XL., XLI., XLII., and XLIII.]

Nos. 38, 39, and 40 are Tables of Death for 1867, 1868, and 1869, classified by ages and Districts.

No. 41 is of Deaths for ten years, classified by ages. No. 42 is of Marriages for ten years ; and No. 43 is a Return of the various causes of Death for a period of ten years, classified according to the nomenelature of Dr. Farr.

DEATHS.

No. 41 Return shows the number of Deaths occurring during ten years, classified according to ages ; and No. 43 gives the various causes of Deaths, classified in accordance with the nomenclature of Dr. Farr. As none of the reports made by me on this subject have been published, I think it well to call attention to one or two points that are preminent in these Returns. Out of the entire number of Deaths in ten years, viz., 2994, 1337, or about 45 per cent., occurred to children under 5 years old. It has not been customary, hitherto, to make periodical sanatory returns, and in a country like this, where a small population is dispersed over a large extent of country, and nowhere in a crowded condition, the utility of doing so has not been very apparent. This Colony, in its history of forty-one years' experience, has been singularly exempt from contagious and destructive diseases, the only interruptions of which have been the introduction of Hooping Cough on two occasions, without any very fatal results, and of Measles in 1860.

The introduction of these diseases has been so clearly defined and identified, that there is no room for doubting their infectious character. In each case it has been brought from the Eastern Colonies, and spread directly from the importing ship. In regard to Measles, it has been unknown until about the middle of the year 1860, when a vessel arrived at King George's Sound from South Australia, landing a person affected by it. The disease soon spread, and fixed its strongest hold on the Native Population. From Albany it was conveyed to Perth and York by persons overtaken by it whilst journeying from one place to another. When once established in these towns, it spread by regular and progressive steps from one station to another, until every remote part of

the Colony had been visited, and in its career leaving many victims. In old established countries this disease is never quite absent, being incidental to youth, and seldom occurs in mature age ; but here, where it paid a first visit, it had a wider range, and its most fatal and grievous attacks were those of young nursing mothers, where both mother and child were destroyed.

Amongst the European Population the first death from Measles occurred at Perth in November 1860, and the last at Fremantle in June, 1861, reckoning altogether 59 cases of death, being 11 in 1860, and 48 in 1861, as follows : 30 in Fremantle, 20 in Perth, 5 in York, 2 in Toodyay, one at Gingin, and one at the Murray, of these 14 were under 1 year of age, 33 under 3 years, 3 under 5 years, one under 10 years, and the remaining 8 were all adult females, principally nursing mothers. Its most violent carrier was at Fremantle, where 15 died in March, 1861, 11 in April, 3 in May, and finally one in June. With the Aborigines the disease caused a wide spread desolation, extending from tribe to tribe with most fatal consequences. The Local Government did everything which could be devised to alleviate the sufferings of these poor people, by the establishment of temporary hospitals, and supplying food, medicines, and comforts, but in every District of the Colony the Deaths were very numerous, as the habits of the natives are so unfavorable in the progress of a disease of this nature, and their mode of treatment so utterly at variance with all rules of medical science. The Hooping Cough, which was introduced in a similar manner, was very fatal in the year 1864, when there were 50 deaths from this disease, or more than 15 per cent. of the entire number of deaths. Fatal Accidents, which are incidental to Colonial life, have been numerous in every year, amounting in the decennial period to 289, or nearly 10 per cent. on the total number of deaths.

ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES.

Table No. 44 shows the Arrivals and Departures in and from the Colony for a period of 10 years, with a balance of 4235 in favor of Immigrants. [TABLE NO. XLIV.]

POST OFFICE.

This table shows the transactions of the Post Office for a period of ten years, and indicates an enlargement of its operations more than commensurate with the increase of population, as shown by a comparison of the transactions of the years 1859 and 1869, viz :— [TABLE NO. XLV.]

The two last items being a portion of the Letters received and forwarded generally.

POST OFFICE SAVINGS BANK.

This Return shows the transactions of the Savings' Bank, from its commencement in 1863 to the end of 1869. [TABLE NO. XLVI.]

The Bank is carried on by the Post Office Department, under the provisions of the Ordinance No. 5 of the 27th of Victoria. Eleven Branches have been established in the principal towns of the Colony, and this establishment may be reckoned amongst the most useful and successful institutions of the Colony, affording opportunity to the mechanic, laborer, or domestic servant of depositing, in safety, surplus money, and thus accumulating a fund as a basis of independence, and a security against reverses or want. 3frac34 ; per cent, per annum is allowed on all deposits, and the Balance due to Depositors at the close of the year 1869 was £14,307 7s. 8d.

JUDICIAL.

Tables 47 and 48 show the number of prisoners convicted at the Supreme Court for a period of 10 years ; and also the Business of the Supreme Court in the several branches of its Civil Jurisdiction for the same period. [TABLE NOS. XLVII., and XLVIII.]

METEOROLOGY AND CLIMATE.

The Northern and Southern boundaries of Western Australia embrace such a vast extent of latitude, that a great variety of Climate and Temperature prevails between the two extremes, but, limiting any remarks on this subject to the Districts which are at present occupied by European settlers, it may safely be said that Western Australia stands unrivalled in regard to Climate ; and in taking an estimate of the value of any Country, the climate must always be of primary importance in the effect which it has on the labors of Agriculture, and the aid which it affords in bringing it to a bountiful and successful issue. Temperature and salubrity are also of great importance, not only in the preservation of health and exemption from pestilential diseases, but also in enhancing the pleasures of life ; and all records of Western Australia bear unanimous testimony in its favor in regard to these points. Up to the present time, no systematic measures have been taken by the Government for establishing general Meteorological records. Registers have been kept at King George's Sound, under the directions of the Board of Trade, and at Perth and Bunbury by private individuals ; and subjoined, in Forms Nos. 49 and 50, will be found an interesting table of the ranges of the Barometer, Thermometer, and Hygrometer, together with the degrees of Humidity, and the gauge of rainfall during the past three years, kept by Mr. W. H. Knight, of Perth. These records have been faithfully kept, and are reliable date for remarks. [TABLES NOS. XLXIX. L., and LI.]

The general character of the Climate is salubrious and temperate. In the Northern portion the Summer is accompanied by a high range of the Thermometer, but in all parts of the Colony the nights are cool and refreshing ; but it is in that portion of the Colony lying South of the parallel of Perth where the Climate is found in its greatest perfection, especially in the districts of Plantagenet, Wellington, and Sussex, having the advantages of equality of temperature and a greater extent of rainfall. I have subjoined, in Form No. 51, an abstract of the Register of the range of the Thermometer kept at King George's Sound in 1862, and, from careful observations made from the Meteorological Books, it may be taken as a guide for the record of each year. In my remarks accompanying a Report made to the Government, I observed that " the facts which are elicited by this return are deserving of especial notice, as they are indicative of a Climate particularly mild and regular, the variation of temperature between the extreme heats of Summer and Winter (both of which Seasons are embraced in these Returns) amounts to 14 degrees only. The highest range of the Thermometer does not exceed 78 deg. 5 min., and the lowest reaches only to 50 degrees, so that, between the extremes of Heat and Cold, there is a difference only of 28 deg. 5 min."

From such a mild and equable Climate, it would naturally be inferred that the District of Albany and the country adjacent to King George's Sound would be highly favorable to health ; and experience has confirmed such an impression, as the town and neighborhood of Albany has from its first occupation been peculiarly exempt from fevers and other miasmatic diseases, as known principally from the records of the Registrar General's Office. These are facts which seem deserving of more consideration than has hitherto been attached to them, as it renders Albany a most desirable position for a Sanatarium of a public character, or as a locality where people in search after health might derive much benefit : and in confirmation of these remarks, the Resident Magistrate of Albany has recently given his testimony in stating that "owing to the peculiar situation of Albany, it has advantages in its Climate above all other parts of the Australian Colonies except, perhaps, Tasmania. Whether the wind comes from the East, South, or West, there is always a sea breeze. Once or twice in the Summer there may be a hot wind, but only lasting for three or four hours." No account of the Rainfall has been kept.

Were the communication between Perth and Albany more rapid and regular, Albany ought to become a favorite residence for all who are anxious to avoid (or to recruit themselves after) the great heat of the Summer in the more Northern parts of the Colony. The advantages its Climate offers ought to be more widely known.

ABORIGINES.

His Excellency Governor Weld having expressed an earnest desire to obtain reliable information respecting the Aboriginal Population of the Country, so as to be able to form some approximate estimate of their entire numbers, divided into male and female adults, and male and female children, I sent Circulars to the several Resident Magistrates, seeking the best information they could collect, and suggested that valuable assistance might be obtained from the Police Officers in each District in this Service. The Magistrates were further requested to report on the numbers who have received any sort of education, or have been trained to habits of industry, as also on their Social condition, and whether their numbers are decreasing, and the cause.

The result of this measure is not at all satisfactory, as affording anything like correct data of the number of Social condition of the Natives. The nomadic habits of this people, and their inability to give numerical information, renders it a matter of difficulty to procure any very reliable returns. The following statement is the result of the information I have received respecting numbers, viz.:—

the above making a total of 2,322. To this may be added an estimate of 240 for the Sussex District. No Returns have been received from the Wellington or Plantagenet Districts, but, setting them down as about 400, this calculation would give a total of about 3,000 for all the settled districts of the Colony, excepting Port Walcott ; but there are numerous tribes living in the interior, bordering on the Settled Districts, that pay occasional visits only.

By the Census Returns, the following information is given of the average number of Natives employed in the service of the Settlers of the Colony as shepherds, herdsmen, laborers, and house servants ; viz.

so employed, but these numbers are probably enlarged by the shifting nature of the services, and by the love of change which is so prominent a part of the character of the Natives.

In addition to the above, it should be stated that 40 Native men are employed in the Police Service as Mounted Assistants, and their services in this capacity are of great use and value ; their keenness of sight, and other faculties which are developed or strengthened by a bush life, give them advantages which are constantly exemplified in the successful tracking of runaway offenders, or in the capture of prisoners. It is a

service suitable to their characters, and the mounted white Constable would often feel himself in a strait without their assistance.

At the new settlement on the North West Coast, of which Roebourne is the central point, the Aborigines have been found of the greatest service, and I think it may be very safely asserted that, without their assistance, the district would scarcely be tenable, as they not only serve in the capacity of shepherds and laborers, and thereby save much expenditure to the graziers, but their services in the Pearl Fishing are indispensable ; they are expert divers, and scarcely any shells are obtained except by their labor. More than 20 large boats are employed in this trade, and no boat is fully equipped without ten or twelve Natives on board ; in fact, without their assistance, this valuable trade could not be carried on except by the importation of divers from some other country. By the Returns received, it appears that 266 males and 31 females are employed in the manner above stated, and, taking a radius of 150 miles from Roebourne, these 266 may be estimated as comprising one half of the males above the age of 14.

No report of the Aborigines could be complete without a reference to the Penal Establishment at the Island of Rottnest for the punishment of native offenders, where there are at present about eighty prisoners. This Establishment has been of the greatest value, not only as a terror to evil-doers, but as a training school where they are instructed in agriculture and other useful labor, and the liberated prisoners return to the main land with an experience which fits them to become more useful and civilized. A large amount of Hay and Corn is produced by their labor, and a Salt Manufactory has been successfully carried out, by means of which, in addition to the grain consumed on the Island, a Revenue of over £600 was received by the Government in 1869 by the sale of produce.

When the last Census was taken, the Registrar General stated that the number of Aborigines frequenting the Settled Districts of the Swan, Avon, Wellington, Sussex, and Albany, was not supposed to exceed 800, but this was certainly a low estimate. Mr. F. Armstrong, the Native Interpreter, who has devoted much time in acquiring a knowledge of the language, character, and numbers of the Natives in the central part of the Colony around Perth, states, that from personal inquiry and records made by him, he is confident that in the first period of our occupation of the Country there were at least 1,600 Natives of all ages, distributed as follows : On the Swan River, between the Coast and the Mountains, 350 ; on the Lakes and Moore River, 500 ; on the Canning, with the adjacent mountain tribe, 250 ; in the Murray and Pinjarm Districts, about 500 : but contagious and other diseases, drunkenness, and quarrels, have reduced them to half (or less) their original numbers ; and the intercourse between their women and Europeans seems to have retarded the increase of population to a very great extent.

The primitive condition of the Natives of this Country must always have been unfavorable to any great increase of numbers. The practice of Polygamy, which was encouraged by peculiar laws of succession or heritage, became a fruitful cause of dissension and bloodshed. They led a hard and wandering life, supported by the precarious results of their hunting or fishing day by day. A very peculiar law, having a mixed character of superstition and tribal policy, was always in operation to keep down numbers, viz., that of avenging the death of a member of one tribe by seeking the death of one of an adjoining tribe, partly as a sacrifice or atonement for some supposed evil influence, and partly to preserve equality of strength or numbers.

I think it may be fairly stated that in their natural state the Natives could never have become very numerous, but there can be no doubt, on the other hand, that since the occupation of their country by Europeans they are diminishing rapidly, and the general opinion of all those who have afforded me information on this subject is, that their numbers are reduced to about one third. And the cause of this rapid decrease is easily accounted for by the periodical recurrence of diseases not previously known amongst them, such as Measles and Hooping Cough, and more especially from the evil habits they have acquired from their contact with the white man, not only in drunkenness

and other debasing habits, but in the gross immorality of their women. In the earlier period of the Colony's history these evils were not much heard of, but since the arrival of Convicts, and their dispersion about the Country, the immorality of the women has become a constant custom, and the early age at which the young native girls are debauched by shepherds and laborers at outstations is attended by lamentable consequences.

At the present time, the degraded position of the Natives, and the evil fate which seems impending over their destiny, together with that of the numerous Half-castes to be found in all parts of the Colony, have aroused a feeling that all has not been done towards them which, as occupiers of their land, and as Christian men, we were morally bound to do for them, and that we have been too easily discouraged at not obtaining that measure of success which our hopes had led us to expect.

In the year 1842 some remarks were published by C. Symmons, Esquire, one of the three Guardians of Aborigines, in which he states that "In the annals of British Colonization, few people can advance higher claims, with regard to their relations with a race of uncivilized Aborigines, than the Settlers of Western Australia ;" and up to that period much had been attempted for the amelioration of the social condition of the Natives. A large Institution was in operation in Perth, under the immediate management of the Wesleyans, for the training and religious education of Children. At one time there were as many as 40 Children under charge, and at an annual examination before the Governor of the Colony it was remarked that the proficiency of the pupils in reading, writing, &c., was up to the average of European Scholars. There have been, also, Missions at Wanneroo, and at York, for the purpose of combining trained labor and education, but all of these establishments failed, from causes principally beyond the control of the managers ; and foremost amongst these was a mysenteric disease incidental to the change of life and food, which the children experienced in their removal from their former free and roving habits. They died off in great numbers, so as to cause an alarm, which led to the removal of the children, and the breaking up of the Establishments.

The only places now in operation for the benefit of the Natives are the Annesfield Institution at Albany, the Roman Catholic Mission of New Norcia, and a School at Perth, under the charge of the Sisters of Mercy. That at Albany was commenced in 1852, and owes its origin and continuance to the christian benevolence and zeal of Mrs. Camfield. It has gone through a varied history of success and disappointment. Several of the young women trained there have, from their educational attainments, and knowledge of music, been sent for and gone as teachers at Missionary Stations in the neighboring Colonies, but it is to be regretted that the numbers now under charge do not exceed fourteen. The Mission at New Norcia was established by Bishop Salvado, and at the present time there are on the Station eighteen male and sixteen female adults, and sixteen male and ten female children, and, by all accounts, the plan pursued there has been followed by a good success. The Natives are associated with a large body of Ecclesiastics and Monks in all the religious observances of the Mission, and every effort has been made, not only to Christianize them, but to make them useful members of society, by their bodily labor in the works of the large farm connected with the Mission. Many of them are married, having separate houses, and are bringing up children after the manner of civilized life. The acquirement of a home and property is unknown to the Natives of the Bush, and it seems essential, for the success of any attempt to ameliorate their condition, that this principle should be chiefly promoted and encouraged.

Some more general and united effort is required from the Settlers of the Colony to meet the wants and condition of these poor people ; and a deep sense of the necessity of this, and a desire toIllegiblelabors which had been crowned with good success at Poonindie, in South Australia, induced the Bishop of Perth recently to tender his resignation of his Episcopal Office, so that he might devote his future time and strength to this Christian work amongst the Natives. At the urgent solicitation, however, of his

friends and admirers at Perth, who formed a deputation and waited upon him in a large body, he was induced to withdraw his resignation ; but this incident has brought the Native question more prominently into notice, and it is not unlikely that out of it may spring some combined efforts to raise the Aborigines of West Australia from their degraded and decaying condition.

PUBLIC WORKS.

A Statistical Account of the Colony would be altogether incomplete with out some account of the progress made during the past ten years in the erection of Public Buildings, and in the construction of Bridges, Roads, and other works for the convenience and facility of Internal Communications. During that period the Government has had the advantage of a large number of prisoners employed on Public Works, and from the information I have collected on this subject it will be shown that a large amount of valuable work has been performed, which may be divided under the four heads of Buildings, Roads, Bridges, and Jetties ; and first, then, of

BUILDINGS.

AT PERTH.—

A new Government House has been erected, of an imposing and palatial appearance, replete with every convenience and accommodation, and may be entitled to rival any structure of a similar character in any of the Colonies. A new Town Hall, capable of holding a company of 2,000 persons. It is built on arches and the underneath part is intended for a Public Market Place. Its external dimensions are 177 feet by 84, or an area of 14,968 feet ; and its external appearance is highly ornamental, being surmounted by a tower of 130 feet in height, which gives great effect to the general aspect of the Town of Perth.

A Military Barracks and Guardroom for Pensioners. The Barracks is on elevated ground, forming the extreme West boundary of St. George's Terrace, the main street, and has accommodation for 60 families, there being 120 rooms, Military Hospital, Magazine, Cooking and Ablution Sheds, Workshops, Canteen, Guard Room, and Cells.

Several large Buildings have been erected in Perth by private means, which add much to its appearance, and are conspicuous in its outlines ; and prominent amongst these are, the Roman Catholic Church and Convent, the Congregational Church, and the Wesley Church—just finished on a chaste and elegant design, surmounted by a spire of great elevation,—the Freemasons' Lodge, and many private Buildings.

The approach to Perth from Fremantle being for three miles along the bank of the River, the City of Perth is open to view, and the effect of these Buildings gives a character of elegance and magnitude to the outlines, which, as regards the former, is not falsified on the entry into St. George's Terrace. The site of Perth, with its combination of an expansive sheet of water in front, and the features of the adjacent Country, possesses much natural beauty, and advantage has been taken of the physical character of the ground in the alignment of the streets, and in their width to preserve an attractive character ; the main street, from the Barracks on the West to the extremity of the street on the East, comprising a distance of nearly two miles, being planted with Cape Lilac trees, which not only afford a grateful shade, but add immensely to the beauty of the City.

AT FREMANTLE.—

A Warehouse 100 feet by 50 has been built for the reception of Bonded Goods ; enlargement of Harbor Master's Quarters, a Guard Room, Boathouse and sheds, and a Lunatic Asylum of large dimensions.

AT ALBANY.—

Public Offices of large dimensions, with a Court House, jury, police, prisoners', and magistrate's rooms, Post Office, Customs Office and Quarters, and Bonded Stores.

BUNBURY.—

Bonding Store, Post Office and Quarters, and the Gaol enlarged.

GERALDTON.—

A Dwelling House of large dimensions, with a coach-house, stables; &c., enclosed by walls, for the use of the Resident Magistrate. A Court House with a Bonding Store underneath, retiring room, clerk's quarters, Post Office, and quarters for Tidewaiter ; Barracks for nine Pensioners, with two rooms for each man, and three rooms and office for sergeant, cells, and gaol accommodation. A School House at Geraldton, and three at the Greenough Flats.

PINJARRAH.—

A Court House, cells, and retiring room.

AT GUILDFORD.—

A new Court House and Lock-up of large dimensions, and a Mechanics' Institute.

In all parts of the Colony large and commodious Stations have been built for the Police Service, with stables, forage rooms, lock-ups, &c., viz. : at Perth, Canning, Guildford, the Lakes on the York Road, Baylup, at York, Beverley, Northam, Toodyay, Stanton Springs, at seven different places on the line of the Perth and Albany Road, at the Blackwood, at Busselton, and at Geegelup, comprising in the whole twenty Stations.

ROADS.

On the main lines of Road from Perth to York, Northam, Toodyay, Victoria Plains, and Gingin, roads have been made for upwards of three hundred miles in extent, grubbed, cleared, formed, and drained ; and for two hundred and fifty miles thoroughly good and substantial Roads have been made, metalled, and gravelled to an average depth of fifteen inches, and a width of eighteen feet, including five miles of Block Road.

The Albany Road has received a large amount of improvement, not only in keeping it open for traffic, but in permanently forming, draining, metalling, and bridging two hundred and forty miles.

In the neighbourhood of Busselton, one hundred and six miles of Road have been opened, streams and gullies bridged, and sufficiently made for the purposes of traffic.

Between Bunbury and Pinjarrah fifty-six miles of road have been made at the foot of the Darling Range, passing through a good country. A branch of the above has been extended, to facilitate the Blackwood traffic, and the Blackwood and Bunbury line has been very much improved by forming, metalling, draining, and bridging about forty miles.

In the Champion Bay District about one hundred and ten miles of Road have been formed, and the worst places made so as to facilitate the transfer of produce.

The Road on the North side of the River, between Perth and Fremantle, has been thoroughly made, three and a-half miles with a foundation of wooden blocks, and three miles of River Wall.

Altogether, Roads to the extent of eleven hundred miles have been constructed, almost entirely by Convict Labor, and as a general rule the roads are in such an excellent condition as to excite the surprise of visitors who travel over them.

BRIDGES.

The following Streams and Rivers have been Bridged during the past ten years :

Some of these Bridges are very extensive, not only in themselves, but also in the approaches and embankments. Those marked * have been built by Convict Labor. In addition to the above, there have been seventy-nine small Bridges of a single span erected by Convicts, and a vast number of Culverts.

JETTIES.

Albany, 555 feet long, with about 4 feet of water at the ordinary states of the tide.

Bunbury, 1400 feet long, into 11 feet of water.

Busselton, 500 feet long, into 10 feet of water.

Champion Bay, 300 feet long, into 9½ feet water.

Fremantle, 470 feet long, with a head 90 by 55 feet, into a depth of about 11 feet.

The whole of these Jetties are provided with tram-rails for trucks, and cranes for hoisting and lowering of goods. They are all built of Jarrah Timber, with an aggregate length of 3780 feet.

WM. KNIGHT.

REGISTRAR-GENERAL.

ERRATA.

Page 8, Table 5.—0.86 per cent. should be 0.87 per cent.

Page 8, Table 8, 4th line.—18.89 per cent. should be 19.89.

Page 8, Table 10, 7th line.—59.69 should be 59.64 ; and 41.36 should be 40.36.

Page 9, 1st line.—For " social" read several.

Page 11, 6th Paragraph.—£1 13s, 1d. should be £1 12s, 2¾d. ; and £2 3s.1d. should be £ 2 4s. 11¼d.

Page 12, 6th Paragraph of Revenue and Expenditure.—Postages ; £254 should be £2546.

Page 31, Under the head of " Jetties," the following has been omitted, viz.:—

" Irwin, 555 feet long, into 11 feet of water."

CENSUS, 1870. RETURNS.

The Pensioners being essentially Military Settlers are, with their Wales and Families, included in this and all other Returns with the general population ; and the following will be found a correct abstract of numbers, viz.:—

Of the numbe of men above stated, 295 were employed on Military Duty on the 31st of March.

This Return does not include the Prisoners in the Convict Establishment, amounting to 1470 males.

The per centage are calculated in the annexed Table 10a.

Under the Head of "Condition of Adult Males" the Military Pensioners are returned as 543 in accordance with the number on the Official Roll, but under the Head of "Occupation" they are entered as 422, being the number taken from the Census Papers ; the other, viz., 121, are classified in the other columns.