In reference to the reasons which induced Miss Nightingale to enter on the present field of inquiry, it may be stated that the conversion of the natives of this island to Christianity, so far from its exerting any fatal or injurious effect on health and life, has vastly improved their condition socially as well as physically. Christian civilization is doing much for them; and the only hope we have of raising the people from that state of moral degradation in which they are found throughout the country is by imparting to them the knowledge of Christian truth, which never fails to produce the happiest effects on their habits of life in general, though it may occasionally happen, that by intercourse with foreigners, vices inimical to longevity are learnt by the aborigines. On the whole, however, it cannot for a moment be doubted that it is to the introduction of Christianity, and, along with it, of European science and European literature, that we have to look for the gradual amelioration of the condition of the races that inhabit this island; and, consequently, it appears to me that no effort should be spared to extend the benefits of a sound Christian education (giving it as much as possible a practical tone and character) throughout the length and breadth of this beautiful and interesting country. It must be admitted that there has been but little done as yet in the island in the way of Christian civilization; but those who are in a position to compare the state of things at present with what it was 20 or 30 years ago admit that there are signs of progress to be seen in various parts of the island, and surely this as a ground of encouragement is not to be despised or underrated. W. C. MACREADY, Acting Asst. Agent. Matura, 20th December 1860. MAURITIUS. [Sidenote: Vide Tables T. and U., pp. 48 and 49.]