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The scheme which I propose leaves therefore some small margin in the case of each class.
Further, I consider that it would be advantageous in the case of the remaining associated cells, that where possible, two or three of them might be thrown into one, thus facilitating supervision by night, and possibly increasing their practical capacity for accommodation of prisoners at times of exceptional pressure.
Subject to the requirements which I have indicated, I leave all questions as to the re-arrangement and improvement of buildings and other structures on the existing site, to the discretion of your Government. I cannot of course but regret that the Unofficial Members of Council have felt unable to assent to the policy of my predecessor, but, as there seems reason to hope that the proposals which I now make will meet with general assent from the Members of Council, I refrain from entering on controversial matter.
I agree with the opinion expressed in the 5th paragraph of your despatch No. 340, that the suggested free emigration of ex-convicts to newly explored or thinly peopled countries is quite impracti- cable, and I await with interest your further report on the question of transferring the juvenile inmates of the Gaol to the Roman Catholic Reformatory, as recommended by the Unofficial Members of Council.
You may communicate this despatch to those gentlemen, either, by laying it before Council or otherwise as you may see fit.
Governor
Sir W. ROBINSON, K.C.M.G.,
&c.,
&C.,
&c.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
-
Your most obedient,
humble Servant,
RIPON.
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