31
left for Highland on the 1st instant.
3.
I had consulted Mr Ball who concurred with me as to the Vice Admiralty Jurisdiction, and it appeared plain from the wording of the late Mr. Stulme's Commission that all possible contingencies were provided for. Mr Ball, as Acting Chief Justice, had no hesitation in taking the duties of Judge of the Vice Admiralty Court.
4.
I perceive that Mr. Adams' Commission is similarly worded.
5.
With respect to the Judge's fees, I enclose a Statement of the Annual receipts from which it will be seen that last year they exceeded £50, and that the average of the last 2, 3, 4, and 5 years is also over £50, but that the average of all the years since 1846 (the date of the Establishment of the Vice-Admiralty Court) falls below £50.
6.
Under these circumstances, I am uncertain whether the Admiralty Registry will require the further payment of the full amount now. I am sure that the full amount of £7.2.6 is the sum thus due; but as Mr Adams is at home, your Grace will probably have the goodness to cause the proper sum to be notified to that Gentleman who...