The observation applies almost with equal force to the Naval Authorities in the case of the sailors in Her Majesty's Service.
I am inclined to agree with Mr. May in ascribing the great amount of drunkenness which has recently prevailed to the causes mentioned by him and I trust that before long it will be considerably reduced.
I fully concur in the opinion expressed by the Magistrates that endeavour should be made to improve the quality of the drink supplied. I am afraid it is little better in many of the licensed public houses than in those private drinking places which are said to be so numerous.
(Signed) F. F. Ballaghan, Chief Magistrate.
March, 27. 1861.
(True Copy)
Strada Lake
for the Colonial Secretary