As to public works, the coun try has put a stop to Vogelism, and one does not look for retrenchment from a Stout-Vogel Government. Con sidering the state of this island, which Ministers specially plume themselves upon representing, there is, however, almost a want of decency in such, a sentence as that about the- depression. The many thousands whose wages have recently been reduced, to say nothing of the thousands who are getting deeper and deeper into the mire, will scarcely be consoled to learn that "the depression is affecting this Colony much less than other countries " ; and this nonchalant way of looking at matters has not even the merit of a likeness to the truth. The programme of new measures is not large nor striking, but quite as much as can be attended to satisfac torily this year. The absence of a Representation Bill is perhaps more remarkable than the presence of any of the measures announced, and the reasons for that absence can be easily guessed and are not particu larly creditable. The Native Lands Disposition Bill- Avill be the most important measure of the session, though the Bill for the reorganisation of the finance and for enlarging the powers of local bodies may attract more attention in .this island. After the ex perience of last year, members will look shy at any proposals in that direction from the present Government. The consolidation of the laws relating to crime is an important work of a special nature. Municipalities and mines are also to have their laws consolidated, but we have little hope of the Volunteer Bill. A parcels post is to be established, and the Charitable Aid and Hospital Act amended—which it needs. There is, of course, a reference to the "happy release" to be effected by the Midland Kail way Company, to the Colonial Exhibition, and the San Francisco mail service; but the New Hebrides question is slurred over in a general reference to the Pacific, and no mention is made of the pressing need of special effort to attract small capitalist settlement. 