Some time ago, it was intended to have proclaimed several Hundreds in the Gold fields, so as to promote agricultural settle ment, and to provide grazing rights. Owing, however, to the very strong objections which were urged against these proposals, the matter was allowed to drop. The question is one which is deserving of your consideration, with a view, if pos sible, of providing Hundreds on Goldfields, and of proclaiming deferred payment blocks within the same without alienation from the Crown of land that is payably auriferous. Gentlemen — Seeing that the Colonial Par liament, of which so many of you are mem bers, is to assemble for business on the loth instant, it will be expedient to regulate the duration of the present Session accordingly. If it should be found that the business of the Province cannot be accomplished within the next fortnight, it will be requisite either to adjourn or prorogue for a few months. I would venture to hope, however, that this may not be necessary, and that we may be able to set an example to the superior Legis lature of what can be accomplished by those who are determined to economise time, and co turn it to profitable account. Gentlemen— Assembled as we are for the first time as a newly elected Provincial Le gislature, permit me to express a hope that we may bury the hatchet, and work toge ther for the public welfare ; that we may each and all strive to manifest that mutual concession which is so essential to the suc cessful working of free institutions. Seeing that the Session must needs be a short one, and that it is desirable to proceed to practical business without unnecessary delay, 1 venture to suggest that the usual formality of replying to the opening Address may be dispensed with, and more especially as it is hoped that the various matters re ferred to will be dealt with by you sepa rately. Gentlemen — With an earnest desire that we may be guided by the wisdom which com eth from above -I now declare this Council' open for the despatch of business. J. Macandrew, Superintendent. His Honour Laving retired, Mr TOLMEE moved—" That the Ad dress be held as read, and that it be printed." The motion was agreed to. PETITIONS. The Hon. 