EATON VANCE INVESTMENT TRUST
N-30D, 1995-11-16
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EV Traditional

National

Limited Maturity

Tax Free Fund

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Semi-Annual 

Shareholder Report

September 30, 1995


Investment Adviser of National 
Limited Maturity Tax Free Portfolio
Boston Management and Research
24 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110

Administrator of EV Traditional National 
Limited Maturity Tax Free Fund
Eaton Vance Management
24 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110

Principal Underwriter
Eaton Vance Distributors, Inc.
24 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110
(617) 482-8260

Custodian
Investors Bank & Trust Company
24 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110

Transfer Agent
The Shareholder Services Group, Inc.
BOS725
P.O. Box 1559
Boston, MA 02104



This report must be preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus which
contains more complete information on the Fund, including its distribution plan,
sales charges and expenses. Please read the prospectus carefully before you
invest or send money.

EV Traditional National 
  Limited Maturity Tax Free Fund
24 Federal Street
Boston, MA 02110                    T-LNASRC




<PAGE>

To Shareholders

EV Traditional National Limited Maturity Tax Free Fund had a total return of
3.8% for the six months ended September 30, 1995. That return was the result of
a rise in net asset value per share to $10.06 on September 30, 1995 from $9.93
on March 31, 1995, and the reinvestment of $0.246 per share in dividends. That
return does not include the Fund's maximum 2.50% current sales charge. Based on
the Fund's most recent dividend and a net asset value of $10.06, the Fund had a
distribution rate of 4.87% at September 30. To equal that in a taxable
investment, a couple paying the 36% federal tax rate would need a yield of
7.61%.

A pattern of slow economic growth bodes well for all capital markets and
particularly fixed-income markets, including municipal bonds. Indeed, municipal
bonds performed well during the first nine months of 1995 by realizing strong
capital appreciation as a result of this favorable investment environment.
However, during this period, the tax-exempt market underperformed the taxable
market because of concern about the potential passage of major tax reform (e.g.,
flat tax, value added tax or consumption tax) legislation.

Were major tax reform to become law, municipal bonds would probably be
underperformers relative to taxable bonds because the current tax-advantaged
status of municipal bonds likely would be eliminated. However, for many reasons,
we at Eaton Vance believe there is little chance of major tax reform legislation
being enacted. For example, the inherent regressivity of the various flat tax
proposals will provoke much opposition, as will proposals to eliminate such tax
breaks as deductions for mortgage interest and state and local taxes. Also, such
proposals could seriously depress entire sectors of the U.S. economy.

Accordingly, we view this recent underperformance by municipal bonds (because
of fears of tax reform) as a potential buying opportunity. Municipal bonds
could represent an attractive asset class at these current relative trading
relationships, with the potential for future outperformance for those investors
willing to adopt a patient, long-term investment horizon. 

In addition, proposals are now circulating in both Congress and the White House
to reduce the nation's budget deficit by severely cutting expenditures over 
the next decade. If enacted, such a concept would drastically reduce the 
federal government's borrowing needs and, as a result, would exert a meaningful
downward influence on interest rates across the entire yield curve. All 
fixed-income instruments, including municipal bonds, would benefit.

We will continue to monitor changes in economic and political conditions and to
pursue the goal of your Fund: to provide you with a competitive distribution of
tax-free income from a portfolio of quality municipal bonds.+

- -------------
|            |                                 Sincerely,
|   Photo    |
|     of     |                                 /s/ Thomas J. Fetter
|   Thomas   |
|     J.     |                                 Thomas J. Fetter
|   Fetter   |                                 President
|            |                                 November 20, 1995
- -------------

+ A portion of the Portfolio's income could be subject to Federal alternative
  minimum tax

                                                                               1
<PAGE>

Management Discussion

An interview with Raymond E. Hender, Vice President, and Portfolio Manager of 
the National Limited Maturity Tax Free Portfolio.

     Q.  Ray, how would you describe the market climate in recent months?

     R.H.: The economy has given a lot of mixed signals in recent months, and
         that has added some uncertainty to the market. On one hand, the economy
         continues to expand a bit. On the other hand, there is evidence that
         the economy is reaching a mature phase. Consumers appear to have nearly
         exhausted their borrowing power, and auto and home sales have flagged
         somewhat. Importantly, inflation has remained in check, in the 2%
         range. With inflation posing little threat, we feel interest rates
         should be stable-to-modestly lower for the foreseeable future.

     Q.  What changes have you made to the Portfolio?

     R.H.: The Portfolio's objective of seeking to maximize income while
         limiting net asset volatility has remained unchanged. We did, however,
         slightly alter the make-up of the Portfolio to take advantage of a
         changing market.
                          ----------------------------
                          |                          |
                          |                          |
                          |         PHOTO OF         |
                          |    RAYMOND E. HENDER     |
                          |                          |
                          |                          |
                          ----------------------------
                               Raymond E. Hender
                               -----------------

         From a credit standpoint, we've added to our holdings of non-rated
         bonds, which should provide some new opportunities for the Portfolio.
         We've also positioned the Portfolio's investments more evenly along the
         yield curve to take advantage of a flatter curve. That's preferable to
         concentating on one area of the curve. In some cases, focusing on the
         short end alone results in minimizing income, while focusing on the
         long end may provide too much volatility. Given a flatter yield curve,
         we've been able to spread our investment to offer a measure of
         protection against getting caught at the wrong end.

         With a more constructive outlook for the market, we were comfortable in
         slightly increasing the Portfolio's exposure to interest rate changes.
         Accordingly, we've sold bonds with the lowest book yield and lowest
         durations and slightly increased the Portfolio's average duration.

         Finally, from a quality standpoint, the Portfolio has maintained an
         average rating of AA. While the rating mix within the Portfolio is
         changing, our credit standards remain the same.

2
<PAGE>

     Q.  What is the advantage of investing in non-rated bonds?

     R.H.: Non-rated bonds may provide some unusual opportunties for investors.
         Eaton Vance has added to its analytical staff in recent months and has
         thereby enhanced its research capabilities. We can now provide the
         intensive research and constant monitoring that non-rated issues
         demand. In addition to providing opportunities to enhance the
         Portfolio's yield, investing in non-rated bonds represents a further
         diversification of the Portfolio. For example, insured issues - which
         now represent 40% of the market - are insured by only five major
         insurance companies. By including bonds with so-called "stand-alone
         ratings" - those without third-party ratings - we are diversifying away
         from these monoline insurers. I think that's a positive development for
         the Portfolio.

     Q.  What changes have you made from a sector standpoint?

     R.H.: As just mentioned, we've lightened up on the insured sector a bit.
         We've also somewhat reduced the Portfolio's exposure to solid waste
         bonds and electric utilities. Finally, we have become more selective
         with respect to hospitals and the healthcare sector.

         The solid waste sector tends to be very project-specific. Recent court
         rulings have eliminated floor supports for some of these projects, so
         there will be winners and losers in the resource recovery field. We're
         focusing on projects we believe will benefit from these rulings. In the
         electric utility sector, the onset of wholesale wheeling has reduced
         the credit quality of some utilities, as large customers choose less
         costly alternatives.

     Q.  Why have you been reducing your hospital exposure?

     R.H.: The hospital sector has become more competitive with shifting
         demographics and rising pressure to reduce health care costs. In a
         tougher competitive environment, some hospitals will emerge with a
         larger market share, while others will face a bleak future. We've tried
         to focus on those hospitals and alternative health care facilities,
         such as assisted living centers, that will be among the beneficiaries
         of the newly competitive climate.

     Q.  What kind of hospitals are you looking at?

     R.H.: We look for hospitals that have especially favorable demographics.
         Others may have a unique market niche, such as rehabilitation or organ
         transplants. Finally, we look for hospitals that have formed strategic
         alliances with health maintenace organizations (HMOs). It's clear that
         HMOs represent the wave of the future for health care. The hospitals
         that have formed these alliances, or have merged with other
         institutions, have managed to sharply reduce their cost structures. As
         a result, we believe they can deliver health care more efficiently.

                                                                               3

<PAGE>

     Q.  Looking ahead, Ray, what is your outlook for the market?

     R.H.: Because of investors' flat tax concerns - which are greatly
         exaggerated in my view - the municipal market has lagged the Treasury
         market in 1995. But 10-year municipal bonds still offer yields that are
         nearly 83% of 30-year muni yields, according to Bloomberg Financial,
         representing value in the intermediate range. That's an extraordinarily
         high ratio by historical measures. As we noted earlier, the economy
         shows signs of maturing, usually a favorable time to consider bonds.
         And, a flat yield curve typically signals value in the intermediate
         range.

         If the Federal Reserve chooses to lower interest rates, as has been
         rumored for many months, the outlook for bonds could improve further.
         Naturally, past trends don't always provide a clue to future
         performance. But, in my view, fixed-income investors who want to limit
         their volatility while enjoying a competitive level of tax-free income,
         should consider the intermediate-term market.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The National Economy: 

The nation's economy continues to grow at a moderate, albeit uneven pace, amid
signs that the expansion is reaching a mature phase. The manufacturing sector
paused at mid-year, with production slowing in the second quarter amid a jump in
inventories. The third quarter was more robust than expected, with GDP rising
4.2%. However, the consensus remains that the economy will continue to avoid
excesses and that inflation will remain under control. Recent reports have
suggested that retail sales and auto sales are lagging, while the leading
indicators have weakened somewhat as well. With the Fed having apparently
successfully engineered its soft landing, the market increasingly anticipates
lower interest rates in the future.


                              -------------------------------------------------
                              |              Portfolio Overview               |
                              |              Based on market value as of      |
                              |              September 30, 1995               |
                              | [Map of                                       |
                              |   USA]       Number of issues..............94 |
                              |              Average quality..............AA- |
                              |              Investment grade...........89.7% |
                              |              Effective maturity.....5.55 yrs. |
                              |                                               |
                              | Largest sectors:                              |
                              |   General obligations...................20.5% |
                              |   Education revenue.....................12.6  |
                              |   Utility revenue........................8.8  |
                              |   Industrial development revenue.........8.2  |
                              |   Housing................................5.0  |
                              |                                               |
                              -------------------------------------------------
4
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                        EV Traditional National Limited Maturity Tax Free Fund 
                                         Financial Statements 
                                  Statement of Assets and Liabilities 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                    September 30, 1995 (Unaudited) 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
<S>                                                                            <C>        <C>
Assets: 
 Investment in National Limited Maturity Tax Free Portfolio, at value 
   (Note 1A) (identified cost, $10,619,592)                                               $10,815,402 
 Receivable from the Administrator (Note 4)                                                    30,311 
 Deferred organization expenses (Note 1D)                                                      27,779 
                                                                                          ------------ 
    Total assets                                                                          $10,873,492 
Liabilities: 
 Dividends payable                                                             $40,837 
 Payable to affiliates-- 
  Trustees' fee                                                                     43 
  Custodian fee                                                                     84 
 Accrued expenses                                                                7,000 
                                                                                 ------ 
    Total liabilities                                                                          47,964 
                                                                                          ------------ 
Net Assets for 1,075,852 shares of beneficial interest outstanding                        $10,825,528 
                                                                                          ============ 
Sources of Net Assets: 
 Paid-in capital                                                                          $10,617,767 
 Accumulated net realized gain on investment and financial futures transactions 
   (computed on the basis of identified cost)                                                  12,025 
 Accumulated distributions in excess of net investment income                                     (74) 
 Unrealized appreciation of investments from Portfolio 
   (computed on the basis of identified cost)                                                 195,810 
                                                                                          ------------ 
    Total                                                                                 $10,825,528 
                                                                                          ============ 
Net Asset Value and Redemption Price Per Share 
  ($10,825,528 / 1,075,852 shares of beneficial interest outstanding)                        $10.06 
                                                                                          ============ 
Computation of Offering Price Per Share 
  offering price per share (100/97.50 of $10.06)                                             $10.32 
                                                                                          ============ 
On sales of $100,000 or more, the offering price is reduced. 
</TABLE>

                      See notes to financial statements 
                                                                             5 

<PAGE>
 
Financial Statements (Continued) 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    Statement of Operations 
 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                    For the Six Months Ended September 30, 1995 (Unaudited) 
 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
<S>                                                                      <C>         <C>
Investment Income (Note 1B): 
 Interest income allocated from Portfolio                                            $243,522 
 Expenses allocated from Portfolio                                                    (24,798) 
                                                                                     --------- 
    Net investment income from Portfolio                                             $218,724 
 Expenses-- 
  Compensation of Trustees not members of the 
   Investment Adviser's organization                                     $    492 
  Custodian fees (Note 4)                                                   1,502 
  Service fees (Note 5)                                                        93 
  Transfer and dividend disbursing agent fees                               3,154 
  Printing and postage                                                     14,905 
  Legal and accounting services                                             3,544 
  Registration costs                                                        3,800 
  Amortization of organization expenses (Note 1D)                           4,000 
  Miscellaneous                                                             1,293 
                                                                           ------- 
   Total expenses                                                        $ 32,783 
 Deduct preliminary allocation of expenses to the Administrator 
  (Note 4)                                                                 30,311 
                                                                           ------- 
    Net expenses                                                                        2,472 
                                                                                     --------- 
     Net investment income                                                           $216,252 
                                                                                     --------- 
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments: 
 Net realized gain (loss) from Portfolio-- 
  Investment transactions (identified cost basis)                        $ 45,697 
  Financial futures contracts                                             (41,311) 
                                                                           ------- 
    Net realized gain                                                                $  4,386 
 Change in unrealized appreciation of investments                                     110,790 
                                                                                     --------- 
      Net realized and unrealized gain                                               $115,176 
                                                                                     --------- 
       Net increase in net assets from operations                                    $331,428 
                                                                                     ========= 


                        See notes to financial statements 
</TABLE>

6 
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                       Statement of Changes in Net Assets 
 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                                                           Six Months Ended 
                                                                          September 30, 1995       Year Ended 
                                                                              (Unaudited)        March 31, 1995* 
                                                                           ------------------   ---------------- 
<S>                                                                           <C>                  <C>
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets: 
 From operations-- 
  Net investment income                                                       $   216,252          $   71,079 
  Net realized gain on investments                                                  4,386               7,639 
  Change in unrealized appreciation of investments                                110,790              85,020 
                                                                              -----------       ---------------- 
   Net increase in net assets from operations                                 $   331,428          $  163,738 
                                                                              -----------       ---------------- 
 Distributions to shareholders (Note 2)-- 
  From net investment income                                                  $  (215,647)         $  (71,079) 
  In excess of net investment income                                                   --                (679) 
                                                                              -----------       ---------------- 
   Total distributions to shareholders                                        $  (215,647)         $  (71,758) 
                                                                              -----------       ---------------- 
 Transactions in shares of beneficial interest (Note 3)-- 
  Proceeds from sales of shares                                               $ 3,109,934          $7,741,061 
  Net asset value of shares issued to shareholders in payment of 
  distributions declared                                                           10,795              10,456 
  Cost of shares redeemed                                                        (206,285)            (48,204) 
                                                                              -----------       ---------------- 
   Increase in net assets from Fund share transactions                        $ 2,914,444          $7,703,313 
                                                                              -----------       ---------------- 
    Net increase in net assets                                                $ 3,030,225          $7,795,293 
Net Assets: 
 At beginning of period                                                         7,795,303                  10 
                                                                              -----------       ---------------- 
 At end of period (including distributions in excess of net investment 
  income of $74 and $679, respectively)                                       $10,825,528          $7,795,303 
                                                                              ===========       ================ 
</TABLE>

*For the period from the start of business, June 3, 1994, to March 31, 1995. 


                        See notes to financial statements 

                                                                             7 
<PAGE>
 
Financial Statements (Continued) 


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        Statement of Changes in Net Assets 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                                              Six Months Ended 
                                                             September 30, 1995       Year Ended 
                                                                 (Unaudited)        March 31, 1995* 
                                                              ------------------   ----------------- 
<S>                                                                <C>                  <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period                               $ 9.930              $10.000 
                                                              ------------------   ----------------- 
Income from operations: 
 Net investment income                                             $ 0.246              $ 0.402 
 Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments              0.130               (0.066)++ 
                                                              ------------------   ----------------- 
  Total income from operations                                     $ 0.376              $ 0.336 
                                                              ------------------   ----------------- 
Less distributions: 
 From net investment income                                        $(0.246)             $(0.402) 
 In excess of net investment income                                     --               (0.004) 
                                                              ------------------   ----------------- 
   Total distributions                                             $(0.246)             $(0.406) 
                                                              ------------------   ----------------- 
Net asset value, end of period                                     $10.060              $ 9.930 
                                                              ==================   ================= 
Total Return(1)                                                       3.83%                3.48% 

Ratios/Supplemental Data**: 
 Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)                         $10,826              $ 7,795 
 Ratio of net expenses to average daily net assets( (2))              0.63%+               0.58%+ 
 Ratio of net investment income to average daily net 
   assets                                                             4.90%+               4.68%+ 

**For the period from the start of business, June 3, 1994, to March 31, 1995, and for the six months ended 
  September 30, 1995, the operating expenses of the Fund reflect an allocation of expenses to the 
  Administrator. Had such action not been taken, net investment income per share and the ratios would have been 
  as follows: 

Net investment income per share                                    $ 0.211              $ 0.212 
                                                              ==================   ================= 
Ratios (As a percentage of average daily net assets): 
 Expenses(2)                                                          1.32%+               2.79%+ 
 Net investment income                                                4.21%+               2.47%+ 

  + Computed on an annualized basis. 
 ++ The per share amount is not in accord with the net realized and unrealized gain (loss) for the period because 
    of timing of sales of Fund shares and the amount of per share realized and unrealized gains and losses at 
    such time. 
(1) Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase at the net asset value on the first day and a sale 
    at the net asset value on the last day of each period reported. Dividends and distributions, if any, are 
    assumed to be reinvested at the net asset value on the payable date. Total return is computed on a 
    nonannualized basis. 
(2) Includes the Fund's share of National Limited Maturity Tax Free Portfolio's allocated expenses. 
  * For the period from the start of business, June 3, 1994, to March 31, 1995. 
</TABLE>

                        See notes to financial statements 

8 
<PAGE>
 
                        Notes to Financial Statements 
                                 (Unaudited) 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
(1) Significant Accounting Policies 

EV Traditional National Limited Maturity Tax Free Fund (the Fund) is a
diversified series of Eaton Vance Investment Trust (the Trust). The Trust is an
entity of the type commonly known as a Massachusetts business trust and is
registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end
management investment company. The Fund invests all of its investable assets in
interests in the National Limited Maturity Tax Free Portfolio (the Portfolio), a
New York Trust, having the same investment objective as the Fund. The value of
the Fund's investment in the Portfolio reflects the Fund's proportionate
interest in the net assets of the Portfolio (7.0% at September 30, 1995). The
performance of the Fund is directly affected by the performance of the
Portfolio. The financial statements of the Portfolio, including the portfolio of
investments, are included elsewhere in this report and should be read in
conjunction with the Fund's financial statements. The following is a summary of
significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the
preparation of its financial statements. The policies are in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles.

A. Investment Valuation--Valuations of securities by the Portfolio is discussed
in Note 1 of the Portfolio's Notes to Financial Statements which are included
elsewhere in this report.

B. Income--The Fund's net investment income consists of the Fund's pro rata
share of the net investment income of the Portfolio, less all actual and accrued
expenses of the Fund determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.

C. Federal Taxes--The Fund's policy is to comply with the provisions of the
Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to
distribute to shareholders each year all of its taxable and tax-exempt income,
including any net realized gain on investments. Accordingly, no provision for
federal income or excise tax is necessary. At March 31, 1995, the Fund, for
federal income tax purposes, had a capital loss carryover of $891 which will
reduce the Fund's taxable income arising from future net realized gain on
investments, if any, to the extent permitted by the Internal Revenue Code, and
thus will reduce the amount of distributions to shareholders which will
otherwise be necessary to relieve the Fund of any liability for federal income
taxes. Such capital loss carryover will expire on March 31, 2003. Dividends paid
by the Fund from net interest on tax-exempt municipal bonds allocated from the
Portfolio are not includable by shareholders as gross income for federal income
tax purposes because the Fund and Portfolio intend to meet certain requirements
of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies which
will enable the Fund to pay exempt-interest dividends. The portion of such
interest, if any, earned on private activity bonds issued after August 7, 1986,
may be considered a tax preference item to shareholders.

D. Deferred Organization Expenses--Costs incurred by the Fund in connection with
its organization, including registration costs, are being amortized on the
straight-line basis over five years.

E. Other--Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade date basis.

G. Interim Financial Information--The interim financial statements relating to
September 30, 1995 and for the six month period then ended have not been audited
by independent certified public accountants, but in the opinion of the Fund's
management, reflect all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring
adjustments, necessary for the fair presentation of the financial statements. 

                                                                               9


<PAGE>
 
Notes to Financial Statements (Continued) 

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) Distributions to Shareholders

The net income of the Fund is determined daily and substantially all of the net
income so determined is declared as a dividend to shareholders of record at the
time of declaration. Distributions are paid monthly. Distributions of allocated
realized capital gains, if any, are made at least annually. Shareholders may
reinvest capital gain distributions in additional shares of the Fund at the net
asset value as of the ex-dividend date. Distributions are paid in the form of
additional shares or, at the election of the shareholder, in cash. The Fund
distinguishes between distributions on a tax basis and a financial reporting
basis. Generally accepted accounting principles require that only distributions
in excess of tax basis earnings and profits be reported in the financial
statements as a return of capital. Differences in the recognition or
reclassification of income between the financial statements and tax earnings and
profits which result in temporary over distributions for financial statements
purposes are classified as distributions in excess of net investment income or
accumulated net realized gains. Permanent differences between book and tax
accounting relating to distributions are reclassified to paid-in capital.

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(3) Shares of Beneficial Interest

The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of
full and fractional shares of beneficial interest (without par value).
Transactions in Fund shares were as follows:


                                        Six Months Ended 
                                       September 30, 1995 
                                           (Unaudited)        March 31, 1995* 
                                        ------------------   ---------------- 
Sales                                        310,280              789,126 
Issued to shareholders electing to 
  receive payments of distributions 
  in Fund shares                               1,081                1,066 
Redemptions                                  (20,675)              (5,027) 
                                             -------            -------------- 
   Net increase                              290,686              785,165 
                                             =======            ============== 

*For the period from the start of business, June 3, 1994, to March 31, 1995.

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(4) Transactions with Affiliates

Eaton Vance Management (EVM) serves as the administrator of the Fund, but
receives no compensation. The Portfolio has engaged Boston Management and
Research (BMR), a subsidiary of EVM, to render investment advisory services. See
Note 2 of the Portfolio's Notes to Financial Statements which are included
elsewhere in this report. To enhance the net income of the Fund, $30,311 of
expenses related to the operation of the Fund were allocated, on a preliminary
basis, to EVM. Except as to Trustees of the Fund and the Portfolio who are not
members of EVM's or BMR's organization, officers and Trustees receive
remuneration for their services to the Fund out of such investment adviser fee.
Investors Bank & Trust Company (IBT), an affiliate of EVM, serves as custodian
to the Fund and the Portfolio. Pursuant to the respective custodian agreements,
IBT receives a fee reduced by credits which are determined based on the average
cash balances the Fund or the Portfolio maintains with IBT. Certain of the
officers and Trustees of the Fund and of the Portfolio are officers and
directors/trustees of the above organizations (Note 5).


10 
<PAGE>
 
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(5) Service Plan

The Fund adopted a service plan on April 14, 1994 designed to meet the
requirements of Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the
service fee requirements of the revised sales charge rule of The National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. The Service Plan provides that the Fund
may make service fee payments to the Principal Underwriter, Eaton Vance
Distributors, Inc. (EVD), a subsidiary of Eaton Vance Management, Authorized
Firms or other persons in amounts not exceeding 0.25% of the Fund's average
daily net assets for any fiscal year. The Trustees have initially implemented
the Plan by authorizing the Fund to make quarterly service fee payments to the
Principal Underwriter and Authorized Firms in amounts not exceeding 0.15% of the
Fund's average daily net assets for any fiscal year which is attributable to
shares of the Fund sold by such persons and remaining outstanding for at least
one year. The Fund paid or accrued service fees to or payable to EVD for the six
months ended September 30, 1995, in the amount of $93. Service fee payments are
made for personal services and/or the maintenance of shareholder accounts.

Certain of the officers and Trustees of the Funds are officers or directors of
EVD.

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(6) Investment Transactions

Increases and decreases in the Fund's investment in the Portfolio for the six
months ended September 30, 1995 aggregated $3,146,837 and $466,077,
respectively.

                                                                              11
<PAGE>
 
                 National Limited Maturity Tax Free Portfolio 
                           Portfolio of Investments 
                              September 30, 1995 
                                 (Unaudited) 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                        Tax-Exempt Investments--100% 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Ratings (unaudited) 
 ------------------- 
                         Principal 
           Standard        Amount 
Moody's    & Poor's    (000 omitted)    Security                                                   Value 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
<S>        <C>             <C>          <C>                                                      <C>
                                        Education Revenue--12.6% 
Aa         NR              $1,500       Arizona Educational Loan Marketing Corporation, 
                                         (AMT), 6.00%, 9/1/01                                    $ 1,570,365 
A          NR               1,000       Arizona Student Loan Acquisition Authority, (AMT), 
                                         7.625%, 5/1/10                                            1,094,240 
Baa        NR                 500       Louisiana Public Facilities Authority, Louisiana 
                                         Association of Independent Colleges & Universities, 
                                         6.20%, 12/1/99                                              508,535 
A          NR               1,970       Louisiana Public Facilities Authority Student Loan 
                                         Revenue Bonds, (AMT), 7.00%, 9/1/06                       2,070,982 
A          A-               1,275       Massachusetts Industrial Financing Agency, Clark 
                                         University, 6.80%, 7/1/06                                 1,397,324 
A1         A+               1,730       Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities 
                                         Authority, Tufts University Issue, 7.40%, 8/1/18          1,864,715 
Aa         AA               1,615       Metropolitan Government Nashville & Davidson 
                                         Counties, Tennessee, Health & Education Facilities, 
                                         (Vanderbilt Univ.), 7.625%, 5/1/08                        1,754,003 
Aaa        NR               1,000       The New England Education Loan Marketing Corporation, 
                                         5.80%, 3/1/02                                             1,045,020 
Baa1       BBB+               250       New York Dormitory Authority, State University 
                                         Education Facilities, 7.00%, 5/15/02                        269,645 
A1         A+               1,000       State of New York Dormitory Authority, University of 
                                         Rochester, 6.50%, 7/1/09                                  1,037,690 
A1         AA               1,000       Texas A & M University Revenue Bonds, 7.00%, 5/15/09       1,085,070 
A          NR               1,610       The State of Texas, Texas College Student Loan Senior 
                                         Lien, 7.45%, 10/1/06                                      1,739,331 
Aa1        AA               2,000       University of Texas Financing System, 7.00%, 8/15/07       2,228,740 
NR         AA               1,500       Wyoming Student Loan Corporation, 6.25%, 12/1/99           1,556,385 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $19,222,045 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Escrowed--3.7% 
Aaa        AAA             $1,720       Corpus Christi TX, (FGIC), Prerefunded to 3/1/02, 
                                         6.70%, 3/1/08                                           $ 1,908,340 
Aaa        A+               2,000       The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Prerefunded to 
                                         8/1/01, 6.75%, 8/1/06                                     2,248,060 
Aaa        AAA              1,350       Schuykill County, Pennsylvania, Redevelopment 
                                         Authority, (AMBAC), Prerefunded to 6/1/01, 6.75%, 
                                         6/1/02                                                    1,491,926 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $ 5,648,326 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        General Obligations--20.5% 
Aa         AA              $2,150       Arlington, Texas, Permanent Improvement, 6.00%, 
                                         8/15/01                                                 $ 2,325,956 
Aaa        AAA              1,500       Austin Independent School District of Travis County, 
                                         Texas, 5.20%, 8/1/01                                      1,556,280 

12 

<PAGE>
 
  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                     Tax-Exempt Investments (Continued) 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Ratings (unaudited) 
 ------------------- 
                         Principal 
           Standard        Amount 
Moody's    & Poor's    (000 omitted)    Security                                                    Value 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                        General Obligations--(Continued) 
Aaa        AA+              1,500       Baltimore County, Maryland, 6.00%, 7/1/05                  1,624,275 
NR         NR               1,000       Cleveland, Ohio, City School District, 6.50%, 6/15/97      1,005,120 
Aaa        AAA              1,000       Dallas County, Texas, Unlimited Tax (Road 
                                         Improvement), 6.50%, 8/15/08                              1,072,200 
Aa1        AAA              2,000       City of Dallas, Texas (Dallas, Denton and Collin 
                                         Counties), 5.90%, 2/15/01                                 2,133,960 
Ba1        BBB              5,000       City of Detroit, Michigan, 6.50%, 4/1/02                   5,206,200 
Ba1        BBB                460       City of Detroit, Michigan, 6.75%, 4/1/03                     485,387 
Aaa        AA+              1,000       State of Georgia, 6.00%, 3/1/04                            1,092,290 
Aa         AA               2,225       Harris County, Texas, 0.00%, 10/1/08                       1,095,501 
A1         AA-              3,500       State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, 
                                         6.00%, 5/15/01                                            3,746,925 
Aa         AA               1,200       Texas Public Finance Authority, 5.375%, 10/1/00            1,251,372 
Aa         AA               3,000       State of Texas, Veterans Program, (AMT), 7.625%, 
                                         12/1/13                                                   3,311,160 
Aa         AA               1,000       City of Tulsa, Oklahoma, 6.20%, 6/1/03                     1,077,610 
NR         NR               3,950       Youngstown, Ohio County School District, 6.40%, 
                                         7/1/00                                                    4,082,878 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $31,067,114 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Health Care--2.3% 
Baa        BBB             $1,500       Colorado Health Facilities Authority, (Rocky Mountain 
                                         Adventist Project), 6.00%, 2/1/98                       $ 1,516,665 
NR         NR                 475       Vermont Industrial Development Authority, (Wake 
                                         Robins Corp Project), 8.00%, 4/1/99                         485,417 
NR         NR               1,550       St. Tammany Public Trust Finance Authority, 
                                         Louisiana, (Christwood Project), 8.75%, 11/15/05          1,534,438 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $ 3,536,520 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Hospitals--3.1% 
A1         AA-             $1,500       Anchorage, Alaska, Hospital Revenue Bonds, (Sisters 
                                         of Providence Project), 6.75%, 10/1/00                  $ 1,620,870 
A1         AA-              1,400       California Health Facilities Financing Authority, 
                                         (Sisters of Providence), 7.50%, 10/1/10                   1,547,938 
NR         BBB+               575       County of Lucas, Ohio, Hospital Facilities (Flower 
                                         Hospital) 5.70%, 12/1/00                                    575,966 
NR         BBB+               425       County of Lucas, Ohio, Hospital Facilities (Flower 
                                         Hospital) 5.80%, 12/1/01                                    427,801 
Baa1       BBB                500       Massachusetts Health and Educational Facilities 
                                         Authority, (Sisters of Providence Health System), 
                                         6.00%, 11/15/00                                             519,315 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $ 4,691,890 
                                                                                                 -----------
                                                                            13 

<PAGE>
 
Portfolio of Investments (Continued) 

 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                     Tax-Exempt Investments (Continued) 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Ratings (unaudited) 
 ------------------- 
                         Principal 
           Standard        Amount 
Moody's    & Poor's    (000 omitted)    Security                                                   Value 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                        Housing--5.0% 
Aa         AA+             $3,390       Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, (Single Family 
                                         Mortgage Bonds), (FHA), 7.55%, 7/1/04                   $ 3,599,943 
NR         A+               1,000       New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency, 
                                         6.40%, 11/1/02                                            1,057,500 
Aa         AA               2,895       Wyoming Community Development Agency, (Single Family 
                                         Mortgage Bonds), (FHA/VA Mortgages), (AMT), 7.20%, 
                                         6/1/10                                                    3,066,645 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $ 7,724,088 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Industrial Development Revenue--8.2% 
Baa1       NR              $  400       Jackson, Alabama, Industrial Development Board, Solid 
                                         Waste Disposal (Boise Cascade), 7.875%, 8/1/00          $   414,468 
NR         NR               5,325       Jackson, Tennessee, Industrial Development Board, 
                                         Solid Waste Disposal (Owens-Corning Fiberglass), 
                                         (AMT), 6.25%, 3/31/04                                     5,384,267 
Baa2       BBB              2,000       Memphis-Shelby County, Tennessee, Airport, (Federal 
                                         Express), 6.75%, 9/1/12                                   2,089,580 
NR         A-               1,115       Ohio Economic Development Commission, (Ohio 
                                         Enterprise Board), (AMT), 5.60%, 6/1/02                   1,121,668 
NR         A+                 300       Ohio Industrial Development Revenue Bonds, (Specko 
                                         Corporation) (AMT), 6.25%, 6/1/00                           306,270 
B1         BB+              2,075       Polk County Florida, Industrial Development 
                                         Authority, (IMC Fertilizer), (AMT), 7.525%, 1/1/15        2,168,002 
A1         A-               1,000       Richland County, South Carolina, Pollution Control 
                                         Revenue (Union Camp Corporation Project), 5.875%, 
                                         11/1/02                                                   1,059,490 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $12,543,745 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Insured Transportation--1.8% 
Aaa        AAA             $1,100       Metropolitan Washington D.C. Airport Authority, 
                                         (MBIA), 7.60%, 10/1/14                                  $ 1,211,342 
Aaa        AAA              1,500       Port of Houston Authority of Harris County, Texas, 
                                         (MBIA) 5.75%, 5/1/02                                      1,545,690 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $ 2,757,032 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Insured Education--3.5% 
Aaa        AAA             $1,000       Alabama A&M University, (MBIA), 6.00%, 7/1/05            $ 1,076,700 
Aaa        AAA              2,150       Illinois State University Auxiliary Facilities 
                                         System, (MBIA), 6.20%, 4/1/01                             2,314,174 
Aaa        AAA              1,840       Pennsylvania State Higher Education Assistance 
                                         Agency, (FGIC), 6.80%, 12/1/00                            1,974,099 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $ 5,364,973 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Insured General Obligations--4.4% 
Aaa        AAA             $1,280       Corpus Christi, Texas, (FGIC), 6.70%, 3/1/08             $ 1,389,952 

14 

<PAGE>
 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                     Tax-Exempt Investments (Continued) 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Ratings (unaudited) 
 ------------------- 
                         Principal 
           Standard        Amount 
Moody's    & Poor's    (000 omitted)    Security                                                    Value 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                        Insured General Obligations--(Continued) 
Aaa        AAA              1,000       District of Columbia, (MBIA), 6.00%, 6/1/01               1,058,770 
Aaa        AAA              1,500       Grand Ledge, Michigan, Public School District, 
                                         (MBIA), 7.875%, 5/1/11                                   1,773,315 
Aaa        AAA              3,760       Maricopa County, Arizona, School District #28, 
                                         (FGIC), 0.00%, 7/1/03                                    2,553,717 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $6,775,754 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Insured Hospitals--3.9% 
Aaa        AAA             $3,430       Connecticut Development Authority, (Hartford Hospital 
                                         Real Estate Corporation Project), (MBIA), (AMT), 
                                         6.875%, 10/1/06                                         $3,709,065 
Aaa        AAA              1,000       Kentucky Development Finance Authority, (St. Luke's 
                                         Hospital) (MBIA), 7.30%, 10/1/03                         1,104,070 
Aaa        AAA              1,000       Massachusetts Health & Education Facilities 
                                         Authority, (Metro West Health Inc.), (AMBAC), 
                                         5.70%, 11/15/01                                          1,059,620 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $5,872,755 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Insured Housing--1.8% 
Aaa        AAA             $1,610       Iowa Finance Authority, Single Family Mortgage, 
                                         (AMBAC), 5.55%, 7/1/00                                  $1,631,236 
Aaa        AAA              1,460       Massachusetts State Housing Finance Authority, 
                                         (AMBAC), (AMT), 6.00%, 1/1/04                            1,038,040 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $2,669,276 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Insured Industrial Development Revenue--1.8% 
Aaa        AAA             $1,500       Alabama Water Pollution Control Authority, Revolving 
                                         Fund (AMBAC), 6.50%, 8/15/04                            $1,576,965 
Aaa        AAA              1,000       Illinois Development Finance Authority, Pollution 
                                         Control Revenue, (Commonwealth Edison), (MBIA), 
                                         7.25%, 6/1/11                                            1,091,560 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $2,668,525 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Insured Lease Revenue/Certificates of Participation--2.2% 
Aaa        AAA             $1,750       Anchorage, Alaska, Certificates of Participation, 
                                         (BIGI), 7.55%, 2/15/98                                  $1,806,718 
Aaa        AAA              1,500       Texas State Public Finance Authority, (AMBAC), 5.60%, 
                                         2/1/00                                                   1,571,280 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $3,377,998 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Insured Utilities--2.2% 
Aaa        AAA             $1,000       Intermountain Power Agency, Utah, (FGIC), 7.00%, 
                                         7/1/15                                                  $1,051,030 
Aaa        AAA              2,150       Washington Public Power Supply System, Nuclear 
                                         Project No. 3, (FGIC), 7.00%, 7/1/05                     2,335,954 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $3,386,984 
                                                                                                 -----------
 
                                                                            15 

<PAGE>
 
Portfolio of Investments (Continued) 

 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                     Tax-Exempt Investments (Continued) 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Ratings (unaudited) 
 ------------------- 
                         Principal 
           Standard        Amount 
Moody's    & Poor's    (000 omitted)    Security                                                   Value 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                        Insured Special Tax--1.4% 
Aaa        AAA             $1,000       Arizona State Transportation Board, (Maricopa County 
                                         Area Regional Road Fund), (MBIA), 7.00%, 7/1/00         $1,103,140 
Aaa        AAA              1,000       Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 238, 
                                         (MBIA), 6.00%, 9/1/09                                    1,016,310 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $2,119,450 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Insured Water & Sewer--1.5% 
Aaa        AAA             $1,000       Boston Water and Sewer Commission, (FSA), 5.50%, 
                                         11/1/01                                                 $1,049,890 
Aaa        AAA              1,170       City of Vallejo, California, (Water Improvement 
                                         Project), (FGIC), 6.00%, 11/1/00                         1,254,813 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $2,304,703 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Lease Revenue/Certificate of Participation--0.9% 
NR         NR              $1,405       Los Angeles, California, Regional Airports 
                                         Improvement Corporation, (Trans World Airlines 
                                         Inc.), 6.125%, 5/15/00                                  $1,395,868 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Miscellaneous--2.0% 
A          A+              $1,000       Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority of 
                                         Illinois, McCormick Place Expansion Project, 5.75%, 
                                         6/15/02                                                 $1,059,650 
A          A+                 500       Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority of 
                                         Illinois, McCormick Place Expansion Project, 5.90%, 
                                         6/15/03                                                    535,005 
Aa         AA               1,400       Virginia State Public School Authority, 6.00%, 8/1/01     1,510,908 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $3,105,563 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Solid Waste--3.7% 
NR         A+              $1,500       Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, (Ogden 
                                         Martin Systems of Fairfax, Inc. Project), (AMT), 
                                         7.75%, 2/1/11                                           $1,643,985 
NR         BBB-             2,120       New Jersey Economic Development Authority Heating & 
                                         Cooling, (Trigen-Trenton Project), (AMT), 6.10%, 
                                         12/1/04                                                  2,127,441 
NR         NR               1,800       Pennsylvania Economic Development Authority, Resource 
                                         Recovery, (Northampton), 6.75%, 1/1/07                   1,809,594 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $5,581,020 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Transportation--4.0% 
Baa        BB              $2,000       Denver, Colorado City & County Airport, (AMT), 7.00%, 
                                         11/15/09                                                $2,118,740 
Aa         AA-              3,700       Los Angeles, California, Department of Airports, 
                                         7.40%, 5/1/10                                            3,922,000 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                 $6,040,740 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Utility Revenue--8.8% 
Aa         AA              $1,545       Conservation and Renewable Energy System, Washington 
                                         Conservation Project, 5.55%, 10/1/02                    $1,609,396 

16 

<PAGE>
 
  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                     Tax-Exempt Investments (Continued) 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Ratings (unaudited) 
 ------------------- 
                         Principal 
           Standard        Amount 
Moody's    & Poor's    (000 omitted)    Security                                                    Value 
 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                        Utility Revenue--(Continued) 
Aa3        AA-              1,000       Chicago, Illinois, Gas Supply Revenue Bonds, (The 
                                         Peoples Gas Light and Coke Company Project), 7.50%, 
                                         3/1/15                                                    1,106,290 
Aa         AA               1,000       Intermountain Power Agency, Power Supply Revenue 
                                         Bonds, 7.20%, 7/1/11                                      1,088,950 
Aa1        AA               1,000       Jacksonville Electric Authority, St. John's River 
                                         Power System, 6.75%, 10/1/05                              1,111,600 
Aa2        AA               2,500       Jefferson County, Kentucky, Louisville Gas and 
                                         Electric Company Project, 7.75%, 2/1/19                   2,711,875 
Aa3        AA-              1,000       Joliet Illinois, Gas Supply Revenue, Peoples Gas 
                                         Light & Coke, 8.00%, 6/1/99                               1,106,100 
Aa         A+               1,000       Platte River Power Authority (Colorado), 6.50%, 
                                         6/1/01                                                    1,052,420 
Aa         AA-              1,000       Southern California Public Power Authority, 5.50%, 
                                         7/1/12                                                      955,660 
Aa         AA               1,000       Washington Public Power Supply System, Nuclear 
                                         Project No. 3, 7.375%, 7/1/04                             1,109,940 
Aa         AA               1,500       Washington Public Power Supply System, Nuclear 
                                         Project No. 1, 7.50%, 7/1/15                              1,621,860 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                                                                                $ 13,474,091 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Water & Sewer Revenue--0.7% 
Aa         AA+             $1,000       Harris County, Texas, Flood Control District, 7.125%, 
                                         10/1/00                                                $  1,122,347 
                                                                                                 ----------- 
                                        Total Investments (identified cost, $148,688,833)       $152,450,807 
                                                                                                 =========== 
</TABLE>

The Portfolio invests primarily in debt securities issued by municipalities. The
ability of the issuers of the debt securities to meet their obligations may be
affected by economic developments in a specific industry or municipality. In
order to reduce the risk associated with such economic developments, at
September 30, 1995, 24.5% of the securities in the portfolio of investments are
backed by bond insurance of various financial institutions and financial
guaranty assurance agencies. The aggregate percentage by financial institution
range from 0.7% to 11.3% of total investments.

At September 30, 1995, the concentration of the Portfolio's investments in the
various states, determined as a percentage of total investments, is as follows:

           Texas                                                17% 
           Others, representing less than 7% individually       83% 

                      See notes to financial statements 
                                                                            17 

<PAGE>
 
                                         Financial Statements 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     Statement of Assets and Liabilities 
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
                                        September 30, 1995 (Unaudited) 
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
<S>                                                                               <C>           <C>
Assets: 
 Investments, at value (Note 1A) (identified cost, $148,688,833)                                $152,450,807 
 Cash                                                                                                743,925 
 Receivable for investments sold                                                                     382,076 
 Interest receivable                                                                               2,762,222 
 Deferred organization expenses (Note 1D)                                                              6,391 
                                                                                                ------------- 
      Total assets                                                                              $156,345,421 
Liabilities: 
 Payable for investments purchased                                                $2,524,835 
 Payable to affiliates-- 
  Trustees' fees                                                                       2,590 
  Custodian fee                                                                        1,353 
 Accrued expenses                                                                      3,599 
                                                                                    --------- 
      Total liabilities                                                                            2,532,377 
                                                                                                ------------- 
Net Assets applicable to investors' interest in Portfolio                                       $153,813,044 
                                                                                                ============= 
Sources of Net Assets: 
 Net proceeds from capital contributions and withdrawals                                        $150,051,070 
 Unrealized appreciation of investments (computed on the basis of identified 
 cost)                                                                                             3,761,974 
                                                                                                ------------- 
      Total                                                                                     $153,813,044 
                                                                                                ============= 
</TABLE>

                        See notes to financial statements 

18 

<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                  Statement of Operations 
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
                      Six Months Ended September 30, 1995 (Unaudited) 
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 
<S>                                                               <C>           <C>
Investment Income: 
 Interest income                                                                $4,481,895 
 Expenses-- 
  Investment adviser fee (Note 2)                                 $  375,074 
  Compensation of Trustees not members of the Investment 
   Adviser's organization                                              6,248 
  Custodian fees (Note 2)                                             37,833 
  Legal and accounting services                                       23,028 
                                                                    --------  
Amortization of organization expenses (Note 1D)                        1,237 
  Miscellaneous                                                       23,351
                                                                    -------- 
    Total expenses                                                $  466,771 
  Deduct reduction of custodian fee (Note 2)                           9,482 
                                                                    --------- 
     Net expenses                                                                  457,289 
                                                                                ----------- 
      Net investment income                                                     $4,024,606 
                                                                                ----------- 
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss): 
 Net realized gain (loss)-- 
  Investment transactions (identified cost basis)                 $  751,633 
  Financial futures contracts                                       (815,015) 
                                                                    --------- 
   Net realized loss                                                            $  (63,382) 
 Change in unrealized appreciation of-- 
  Investments                                                     $2,147,434 
  Financial futures contracts                                        144,506 
                                                                    --------- 
   Net change in unrealized appreciation                                         2,291,940 
                                                                                ----------- 
    Net realized and unrealized gain                                            $2,228,558 
                                                                                ----------- 
     Net increase in net assets from operations                                 $6,253,164 
                                                                                =========== 
</TABLE>

                        See notes to financial statements 

                                                                            19 

<PAGE>
 
Financial Statements (Continued) 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                             Statement of Changes in Net Assets 
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                                         Six Months Ended 
                                                        September 30, 1995      Year Ended 
                                                           (unaudited)        March 31, 1995 
                                                        ------------------    -------------- 
<S>                                                        <C>                 <C>
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets: 
 From operations-- 
  Net investment income                                    $  4,024,606        $  8,797,304 
  Net realized loss on investments                              (63,382)         (4,509,177) 
  Change in unrealized appreciation of investments            2,291,940           4,668,165 
                                                        ------------------    -------------- 
   Net increase in net assets from operations              $  6,253,164        $  8,956,292 
                                                        ------------------     -------------
 Capital transactions-- 
  Contributions                                            $  8,039,635        $ 53,163,573 
  Withdrawals                                               (30,100,559)        (70,340,668) 
                                                        ------------------    -------------- 
   Decrease in net assets resulting from capital 
     transactions                                          $(22,060,924)       $(17,177,095) 
                                                        ------------------    -------------- 
    Total decrease in net assets                           $(15,807,760)       $ (8,220,803) 
Net Assets: 
 At beginning of period                                     169,620,804         177,841,607 
                                                        ------------------    -------------- 
 At end of period                                          $153,813,044        $169,620,804 
                                                        ==================    ============== 
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                     Supplementary Data 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
                                                   Six Months Ended 
                                                     September 30,      Year Ended March 31, 
                                                   ------------------   -------------------- 
                                                        1995**            1995       1994* 
                                                   ------------------    -------   --------- 
<S>                                                    <C>              <C>         <C>
  Ratios (As a percentage of average daily 
    net assets): 
   Expenses                                                0.58%+           0.53%       0.52%+ 
   Net investment income                                   4.99%+           5.02%       4.74%+ 
  Portfolio Turnover                                         26%              56%         21% 
  Net Assets, end of period (000 omitted)              $153,813         $169,621    $177,842 

   +Annualized. 
   *For the period from the start of business, May 3, 1993, to March 
    31, 1994. 
  **Unaudited. 
</TABLE>


                        See notes to financial statements 

20 

<PAGE>
 
                        Notes to Financial Statements 
                                 (Unaudited) 

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Significant Accounting Policies

National Limited Maturity Tax Free Portfolio (the Portfolio) is registered under
the Investment Company Act of 1940 as a diversified open-end management
investment company which was organized as a trust under the laws of the State of
New York on May 1, 1992. The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue
interests in the Portfolio. The following is a summary of significant accounting
policies of the Portfolio. The policies are in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles.

A. Investment Valuation--Municipal bonds are normally valued on the basis of
valuations furnished by a pricing service. Taxable obligations, if any, for
which price quotations are readily available are normally valued at the mean
between the latest bid and asked prices. Futures contracts listed on commodity
exchanges are valued at closing settlement prices. Short-term obligations,
maturing in sixty days or less, are valued at amortized cost, which approximates
value. Investments for which valuations or market quotations are unavailable are
valued at fair value using methods determined in good faith by or at the
direction of the Trustees.

B. Income--Interest income is determined on the basis of interest accrued,
adjusted for amortization of premium or discount when required for federal
income tax purposes.

C. Income Taxes--The Portfolio is treated as a partnership for federal tax
purposes. No provision is made by the Portfolio for federal or state taxes on
any taxable income of the Portfolio because each investor in the Portfolio is
ultimately responsible for the payment of any taxes. Since some of the
Portfolio's investors are regulated investment companies that invest all or
substantially all of their assets in the Portfolio, the Portfolio normally must
satisfy the applicable source of income and diversification requirements (under
the Internal Revenue Code) in order for its investors to satisfy them. The
Portfolio will allocate at least annually among its investors each investor's
distributive share of the Portfolio's net taxable (if any) and tax-exempt
investment income, net realized capital gains, and any other items of income,
gain, loss, deduction or credit. Interest income received by the Portfolio on
investments in municipal bonds, which is excludable from gross income under the
Internal Revenue Code, will retain its status as income exempt from federal
income tax when allocated to the Portfolio's investors. The portion of such
interest, if any, earned on private activity bonds issued after August 7, 1986
may be considered a tax preference item for investors.

D. Deferred Organization Expenses--Costs incurred by the Portfolio in connection
with its organization are being amortized on the straight-line basis over five
years.

E. Financial Futures Contracts--Upon the entering of a financial futures
contract, the Portfolio is required to deposit ("initial margin") either in cash
or securities an amount equal to a certain percentage of the purchase price
indicated in the financial futures contract. Subsequent payments are made or
received by the Portfolio ("margin maintenance") each day, dependent on the
daily fluctuations in the value of the underlying security, and are recorded for
book purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Portfolio. The Portfolio's
investment in financial futures contracts is designed only to hedge against
anticipated future changes in interest rates. Should interest rates move
unexpectedly, the Portfolio may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the
financial futures contracts and may realize a loss.

F. Other--Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade date basis.

G. Interim Financial Information--The interim financial statements relating to
September 30, 1995 and for the period then ended have not been audited by
independent certified public accountants, but in the opinion of the Portfolio's
management, reflect all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring
adjustments, necessary for the fair presentation of the financial statements.

                                                                            21 

<PAGE>
 
Notes to Financial Statements (Continued) 

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) Investment Adviser Fee and Other Transactions with Affiliates

The investment adviser fee is earned by Boston Management and Research (BMR), a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Eaton Vance Management (EVM), as compensation for
management and investment advisory services rendered to the Portfolio. The fee
is based upon a percentage of average daily net assets plus a percentage of
gross income (i.e., income other than gains from the sale of securities). For
the six months ended September 30, 1995, the fee was equivalent to 0.47% of the
Portfolio's average net assets for such period and amounted to $375,074. Except
as to Trustees of the Portfolio who are not members of EVM's or BMR's
organization, officers and Trustees receive remuneration for their services to
the Portfolio out of such investment adviser fee. Investors Bank & Trust Company
(IBT), an affiliate of EVM and BMR, serves as custodian of the Portfolio.
Pursuant to the custodian agreement, IBT receives a fee reduced by credits which
are determined based on the average daily cash balances the Portfolio maintains
with IBT. For the six months ended September 30, 1995, credits used to reduce
custodian fees amounted to $9,482. Certain of the officers and Trustees of the
Portfolio are officers and directors/trustees of the above organizations.
Trustees of the Portfolio that are not affiliated with the Investment Advisor
may elect to defer receipt of all or a percentage of their annual fees in
accordance with the terms of the Trustees Deferred Compensation Plan. For the
six months ended September 30, 1995, no significant amounts have been deferred.

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(3) Line of Credit

The Portfolio participates with other portfolios and funds managed by BMR or EVM
in a $120 million unsecured line of credit agreement with a bank. The line of
credit consists of a $20 million committed facility and a $100 million
discretionary facility. Borrowings will be made by the Portfolio solely to
facilitate the handling of unusual and/or unanticipated short-term cash
requirements. Interest is charged to each portfolio or fund based on its
borrowings at an amount above either the bank's adjusted certificate of deposit
rate, a variable adjusted certificate of deposit rate, or a federal funds
effective rate. In addition, a fee computed at an annual rate of 1/4 of 1% on
the $20 million committed facility and on the daily unused portion of the $100
million discretionary facility is allocated among the participating funds and
portfolios at the end of each quarter. The Portfolio did not have any
significant borrowings or allocated fees during the period.

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(4) Investments

Purchases and sales of investments, other than U.S. Government securities and
short-term obligations, aggregated $41,356,131 and $57,615,122, respectively.

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(5) Federal Income Tax Basis of Investments

The cost and unrealized appreciation/depreciation in value of the investments
owned at September 30, 1995, as computed on a federal income tax basis, were as
follows:

Aggregate cost                         $148,688,833 
                                       ============= 
Gross unrealized appreciation          $  3,954,214 
Gross unrealized depreciation               192,240 
                                       ------------- 
  Net unrealized appreciation          $  3,761,974 
                                       ============= 

- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(6) Financial Instruments

The Portfolio regularly trades in financial instruments with off-balance sheet
risk in the normal course of its investing activities to assist in managing
exposure to various market risks. These financial instruments include written
options and futures contracts and may involve, to a varying degree, elements of
risk in excess of the amounts recognized for financial statement purposes. The
notional or contractual amounts of these instruments represent the investment
the Portfolio has in particular classes of financial instruments and does not
necessarily represent the amounts potentially subject to risk. The measurement
of the risks associated with these instruments is meaningful only when all
related and offsetting transactions are considered. The Portfolio had no such
obligations outstanding at September 30, 1995.

22 
<PAGE>
 
Investment Management 

EV Traditional               Officers              Independent Trustees 
National                     Thomas J. Fetter      Donald R. Dwight 
Limited Maturity             President             President, Dwight 
Tax Free Fund                                      Partners, Inc. Chairman, 
24 Federal Street            James B. Hawkes       Newspapers of New England, 
Boston, MA 02110             Vice President,       Inc. 
                             Trustee

                             Robert B. MacIntosh   Samuel L. Hayes, III 
                             Vice President        Jacob H. Schiff Professor 
                                                   of Investment Banking, 
                             James L. O'Connor     Harvard University 
                             Treasurer             Graduate School of 
                                                   Business Administration 
                             Thomas Otis 
                             Secretary             Norton H. Reamer 
                                                   President and Director, 
                                                   United Asset Management 
                                                   Corporation 

                                                   John L. Thorndike 
                                                   Director, Fiduciary 
                                                   Company Incorporated 

                                                   Jack L. Treynor 
                                                   Investment Adviser and 
                                                   Consultant 
                             ------------------------------------------------ 
National                     Officers              Independent Trustees 
Limited Maturity 
Tax Free                     Thomas J. Fetter      Donald R. Dwight 
Portfolio                    President             President, Dwight 
24 Federal Street                                  Partners, Inc. Chairman, 
Boston, MA 02110             James B. Hawkes       Newspapers of New England, 
                             Vice President,       Inc. 
                             Trustee

                             Robert B. MacIntosh   Samuel L. Hayes, III 
                             Vice President        Jacob H. Schiff Professor 
                                                   of Investment Banking, 
                             Raymond E. Hender     Harvard University 
                             Vice President and    Graduate School of 
                             Portfolio Manager     Business Administration
 
                             James L. O'Connor 
                             Treasurer             Norton H. Reamer 
                                                   President and Director, 
                             Thomas Otis           United Asset Management 
                             Secretary             Corporation 

                                                   John L. Thorndike 
                                                   Director, Fiduciary 
                                                   Company Incorporated 

                                                   Jack L. Treynor 
                                                   Investment Adviser and 
                                                   Consultant 


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