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The only, not only, that I am aware of for preventing these continual complaints would be for me to be authorised, as suggested in the 8th paragraph of Major Macpherson's despatch of 13th April, last, to procure supplies which have hitherto been furnished by the Ordnance Department from Contractors direct.
The articles are principally clothing and Tools, the quality of which has frequently been complained of, and I feel satisfied that if I were authorised to obtain these supplies from the Contractors, not only the inconvenience of unnecessary delay, but the complaints of quality would be done away with.
I should still apply to the Ordnance if Ammunition or Arms were required.
I find, except in cases where the latter were wanted for the Police Force, that I can obtain them readily from the parties who are under Contract with the Commissioners of the Metropolitan Police in this Colony, and at the same price charged.
I have the honor to be,
Your obedient
Humble Servant