868 EEPOET OF COMMISSIONER OF FISH AND FISHERIES. 



as there is always a reasonable feeling of pride in such matters, the so- 

 cieties named are entitled to the utmost consideration consistent with 

 the preservation of this valuable contribution to the food fish of the 

 colony. One hundred thousand eggs might be shii^ped to Canterbury, 

 100,000 to Dunedin, and 50,000 to Nelson. This would dispose of the 

 entire shipment, which is in ten (50,000) boxes. 



In this connection I have consulted several gentlemen experienced in 

 the American fisheries, and they unhesitatingly j)lace whitefish as the 

 most valuable of all fresh-water fish, ranking as a food fish above aU 

 other varieties. They are prolific, grow to a large size, and are equally 

 good for food fresh or salted. Should they be successfully acclimatized 

 in ISTew Zealand, the colony will derive an immense return for the small 

 outlay incident to introducing them. 



I have taken advantage of the refrigerator-box of the Auckland So- 

 ciety, in which the late consignment of salmon ova were shipped, and 

 filled it with ice in lieu of the ship's ice-house, which Captain Dearbour 

 has placed at my disposal for the whitefish. This will economize ice 

 and give a more reasonable certainty of the consignment arriving safely. 

 I may here state that Captain Dearbour, of the City of Sydney, takes a 

 very deep interest in this work of acclimatization, and, I think, deserves 

 some recognition by the government. 



I have also consulted Mr. Bedding, Fish Commissioner for California, 

 from whom, and his Deputy, Mr. Woodbury, I have received every pos- 

 sible aid. I need not, however, encumber this communication by inclos- 

 ing my correspondence with these gentlemen. 



The fact that I received intimation of this shipment by telegram on 

 the 5th instant compelled me to wire a message through by cable to pre- 

 vent the possibility of the consignment failing for want of preparedness 

 on arrival. It was addressed to the i^remier. As I was not in funds to 

 meet this and other disbursements on account of the colony, I have drawn 

 for the amount, as per vouchers and statement of account annexed, which 

 please honor. I also inclose statement of account from Mr. Clark, to 

 whom you will be good enough to remit the amount by return mail, ap- 

 prising me of the fact. You will observe what Professor Baird states 

 upon this subject — and I would respectfully suggest that the government 

 convey to him an expression of their appreciation of the interest he has 

 taken in the acclimatizing of food fish in IiTew Zealand. 



I have acted in this matter without instructions, but in the belief that 

 my conduct will meet with your approval. 



I would suggest, in conclusion, that tbe government in future would 

 prevent risk of loss by apprizing me when they order fish eggs from the 

 United States Commission. I had no knowledge of the last order for 

 salmon until after the ship sailed, and it was by a mere accident that the 

 entire consignment was not left behind. 



I have, &c., ROBT. J. CREIGHTON. 



The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, 



Wellington. 



