the Sum the House cost, and relieved from the smallest degree of risk, or expence, on account of it.
AMAN.
I am sensible, that every man has a right to do the best he can with his own property, & your House rent is so high in this Colony, that I do not think $150 per Month, though a large sum, is beyond the proper mark: but as House stands on ground which has been from the first occupation of the Colony reserved for Public purposes, and as it is even possible, that it may (should either the plan of the Naval Commander in Chief, or that of the Commanding Officer of the Engineers be ordered to be carried out) be required for the Naval or Military Departments, it cannot be occupied without the express sanction of Government - pending the receipt of the Instructions that may be looked for from Home, in the course of a few months.
Mr. Strachan will be informed of the terms in which Government will take the House, which will be at the rent proposed viz $150 per Mensem, Government paying further for the Insurance Policy against Fire, but all reasonable Repairs being made at the expence of the Owner, and I beg to recommend your intimating your acquiescence to your Agent, and also apprizing him - if you have not already done so - of the Price you expect for it, should it be necessary to transfer it to the Public, under the expected Orders from Her Majesty's Government.
I have &c.
[Signed] Henry Pottinger
Major General,
The Lord Stanley M.P. &c. &c. &c.
My Lord,
Victoria 26th October 1843.