He was told what the Secretary of State expected him to do, and in the opinion of His Excellency the Governor, this has been done.
As regards expression of regret to which you offer objection, I have to remind you that you yourself made direct application to Mr. Austey, and that the course now pursued is that which has been followed throughout this unfortunate affair, since it assumed an official, or public character.
Mr. Austey has expressed his regret, and you have been officially informed; His Excellency considers this sufficient to justify him in directing the termination of the dispute.
If His Excellency felt himself at liberty to show a Despatch from the Secretary of State to the parties concerned, he does not think that the interests of the Public Service would be promoted by meeting your request with respect to the one in question.
I have, &c.
(Signed) W. J. Mercer
Colonial Secretary.
The Copy was sent to
Colonial Secretary.