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appointed to act for him, and W. Ganthorpe took Mr Neuman's place as chief clerk. Mr Newman however towards the end of the year was frequently absent from his office through sickness, and as Ganthorpe was so inefficient, the greatest irregularities were subsequently found to have prevailed in the Department.
On the 28th February I thought it necessary, in consequence of Mr Newman's serious illness, to apply to Admiral Hope for assistance, and Mr Starris of the Harbor Office of the Navy was appointed Acting Store Master.
Mr Newman died on the 5th March, leaving his affairs in an unsettled state. Mr Harris was not long in office for he accepted a post afloat and on the 17th March another change was made by the appointment of Mr Comette of the Navy, under whom the Office is now conducted with more order and regularity.
Mr Boulton of the Colonial Secretary's Office was made chief clerk in Mr Newman's place, and the Late 2nd clerk Mr Ganthorpe suspended, as I reported in Despatch No. 144 of 1st April last.