Laboratory.

The number of analyses performed in the Colonial Laboratory for ordinary purposes during the past year is 265, and the Laboratory number now arrived at is 3,285.

These analyses are subdivided as follows:—Coals, 13; minerals and rocks, 58; metals and ores, 40; examinations for silver and gold, 89; waters, 21; miscellaneous, 40. Total 265.

Besides the above, a large number of examinations have been made under the Adulteration Act of 1880, by the Analyst; and about the month of August time was occupied in visiting the Rotorua District, at which place he collected samples and analyzed specimens of water from the various springs. The Analyst has also been occupied at various times in verifying certain sets of weights and measures, in compliance with the Act.

The results of the analyses, which are of general interest, are noted in full in the Annual Report on the Museum and Laboratory.

James Hector.