With regard to locality and public convenience, there is no building in this Colony adapted for a Government House; and though I now occupy may be justly considered as a desirable residence, and indeed as to position better than any other at present procurable; still its want of room renders it desirable that a Government House should be commenced upon with as little delay as possible. This is I believe the only work of any magnitude that remains to be constructed; and I therefore recommend that the Plan now submitted for Your Lordship's consideration and sanction, be adopted.
In Despatch No. 116 of the 25th August 1845 from my predecessor to the Colonial Office was transmitted by Major Aldrich, the then Commanding Royal Engineer, a Plan at an estimated cost of £14,407. That Plan is no doubt very handsome, and worthy of a gentleman of Major Aldrich's acknowledged professional talent; but nevertheless, I do not consider it so well suited to this climate, on so complete a consideration.
Lord Stanley in his Despatch No. 7 of 2nd December 1845, appears to have approved of Major Aldrich's Plan and Estimate; and as that now submitted for Your Lordship's sanction does not exceed in amount that of Major Aldrich, I am in hopes that objection will not be taken to the proposed mansion on the ground of expense.
I have the honor to be, with the highest respect, Your Lordship's Most Obedient, Humble Servant,