I have explained to you the rule in regard to public works observed in all Her Majesty's Colonies, that no expenditure is to be incurred except in cases of absolute necessity, until plans and estimates have been sent home, and approved by Her Majesty's Government. As there seems no reason to suppose that the works suggested by Mr. Gordon are of this immediate and indispensable urgency, I think it better, before expressing any final opinion, to leave you the opportunity of bringing them again, in a fuller and more formal manner, under the consideration of Her Majesty's Government, after further reflection on their necessity.
I have, &c.,
(signed) Merivale.
Government Offices,
4th October 1855.
Memorandum
I consider this general matter to be a most important and valuable public work, and, reserving questions of detail and improvement which may be suggested hereafter, I desire that measures should be taken, without delay, to ascertain whether there are any legal or practical difficulties in accomplishing this proposed public work, with a view to the early removal of such difficulties.
I refer to the consideration of the Land Committee the points at issue between yourself, the Colonial Secretary, the Engineer, and the Surveyor General. The question requires grave consideration as to the...