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guarantors for the future, namely the opening to the public of the discussions of the Legislative Councils is now under reference to the Secretary of State, and has been advocated, by the Governor in his Official Despatches. A new character would be obviously given to the proceedings of the Legislative, were the public admitted, and both the copies and the manner of debates must be the subjects of regulations which probably might require the sanction of the supreme Authority.
As regards your wish to be relieved from the duties of a Legislative Councillor, Sir W. Cairns is not willing to dispense with your services, which he believes in the Council have been of eminent value.
A copy of your letters and of this reply will be sent to the Secretary of State and will be confidentially conveyed to the members of their Legislative Council.
I have, &c.
(Signed) W. H. Mercer
Colonial Secretary.
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