Despatch enter into sufficient detail to shew the competence of the authority. I quoted to prove the safety of the boat, and I now beg to explain that on the last occasion of my personally visiting the Hulk
therefore competent
Myself specially inspected the boats, and Mr. Hall having mentioned that he had tested them by putting as many men as he could collect before the boats towed her to her station, was accompanied by Mr. Alexander, Acting Colonial Secretary, Mr. Blakeney, Surveyor General, Captain MacMurdo, Acting Harbour Master, Captain Quin, Superintendent of Police, Mr. Williamson, Superintendent, and Mr. Hall, the shipbuilder who had the Contract for fitting the vessel.
The conclusion arrived at was that the boats would answer their purpose, and that the expense of other boats was uncalled for.
It must be borne in mind that it was Mr. Hall's interest to condemn the boats, that his judgment was not fair and impartial, and therefore received as such to be questioned.
Three of these, it will be noted, were nautical or professional men and I heard no dissentient voice
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3.