It is in my opinion much to be lamented that Contracts were permitted to be made for performing the works by piecemeal, for thus the Surveyor General never could, (until as in the present instance, at the near completion of the Church), discover what sum he would actually require for the whole service. In explanation I beg to enclose copy of Mr. Cleverly's letter Nr. 80 of the 22th December, 1846.
In Your Lordship's Despatch Nr. 34 of the 8th October, 1846, the sum of £6000 was sanctioned on the part of the Government for building a Church, and it is to be regretted that any change occurred afterwards, for Estimates sent home by Sir John Davis, in Despatch Nr. 131 of the 18th November 1846, (before the arrival of Despatch Nr. 34, already referred to), are now proved to be infinitely below the expenditure; in fact Mr Gordon's letter Nr. 66 of the 26th October, 1846,
4. and 233 J. H. (copy attached), anticipates a supplementary Estimate, as Mr Cleverly appears to have given full satisfaction to the Trustees, I do not attach any blame to him for the sum authorized and estimated for by Mr Gordon having been consumed without the Tower being included therein : this however, is so essential that I beg to recommend the further grant of £694.12 on behalf of the Government, for this service, on the condition that the remaining 3rd of £367, be made good by the inhabitants.
I beg also to add a letter from Major Aldrich, late Commanding Royal Engineer, of the 12th November, 1846, from which it will be apparent ; that he considered Mr Gordon's Estimate rather low in amount.
I have the honor to be, With the highest respect, Your Lordship's Most Obedient Humble Servant