' Mr Ross thought that Mr Mason's ap pointment to the dredge would r effect a saving of £200 a year in the Board's expen diture. •

On a vote being taken, Messrs Mackerras, J. B. Thomson, Fulton, Barnes, and Gourley voted for the amendment; and Messrs Ross, A. Thomson, Law, Reid; and Hislop against it. The Chairman gave his casting-vote against the amendment. Mr Adams did not vote.
The resolution, as reported from Committee, was then adopted, and Mr Mason's appointment confirmed.
TONGUE WHAItF

The Chairman brought before the Board the question of a tongue wharf in the steamers' basin. The broad question was simply this, Was it desirable that the tongue wharf should be erected. He moved—"That it is desirable that 11 tongue wharf be constructed in the steamers' basin."

■ Mr."Adams' was of opinion that there was already too much wharf accommodation at Dunetiin. It was only on special occasions— about twice a year—that the shipping was double-banked Why the Board were going to an expense of £11,000 or £12,000 while the accommodation now available was ample was a mystery to him. Mr Law also thought there was plenty of accommodation, and opposed the proposed

work.
Mr Reid defended the proposed construction, which was an essential part of the harbour improvement. The whole of the Union Com pany's trade would be conducted from that wharf when made. The Union Company had repeatedly written to the Board complaining of the want of accommodation—both wharves and shed room.
