Mr Macdonald said he was a member of the Club, but at the same time he was in favour of some small charge being made. It would be better than begging or borrowing. He moved — " That the boxes be offered to- the Club for the sum ofL2." Seconded by Mr Stewart. > Mr Wood asked how many members

there were in tho Club and how many were good on the books. From whati- transpired it appeared .ther. were f l'oin thirty to forty. After several motions had been f twined and the price of the locks and koys fully discussed, Messrs Macdonald, Hutchins, and Wood, were chosen a committee to sell the boxes for as much as possibly could be obtained- for-th'em ;, Mr Mac donald's motion being- subsequently with drawn Mr Macdonald said they were aware it was necessary for the Council to give an approximate statement of receipts and ex penditure for the coming year before striking a rate. The one he would submit to them had been prepared in view of the discontinuance of the subsidy from Go vernment, which he was informed they need not expect for the future. The items of expenditure had been dealt as economically with as possible. He then read the statement, which.ap pears in our advertising columns: The Mayn* said the picture was not at j all a dark one for the future, as there I was no great expenses required for repairs now, as had been the case up to the pre sent. In striking a rate it would be well to bear this in mind as the interests of the ratepayers ought to be considered, and the rate be made as easy as possible. He was glad to hear outside residents speak of the general improved appearance of the Borough, and as to the future there would be no difficulty in meeting all cur rent expenses. Mr Stewart asked if the special rate had been paid by every individual rate payer. He was given to understand there was a considerable portion still outstand ing and some had refused payment alto gether. The Mayor said that was not the time to put such a question ; Mr Stewart would have an opportunity of putting it after - wards The business before the Coun cillors was the striking of a general rate. 