Present understanding to exist, I am to mention that at the commencement of the Russian War in 1854 a Battery at Wist Point was not only paid for by the War Department (as have been all the other Batteries in the Colony), but as late as October 1851, the principle on which the present matter turns was admitted by the Secretary of State for War, and "the Secretary of State for War" when even the rent of a house for the use of the Military in the rear of the Barracks mentioned was (in addition to the cost of the Battery) refunded to the Colony by the War Department.
I enclose copies of the despatches in question as the Acting Governor wishes this Major General to see the relations (undisturbed to this date) in fee matters between the Colonial and War Departments, and to note that though arose from want of instructions from home, seven years elapsed before the refund was made, the delay being due to the War Department's tardiness and not from any denial of the claim.
In the present instance, as in that of 1854, the precautions taken were judged "necessary by the Governor and Executive Council, and this opinion was supported by the Senior Military and Naval Officers. The circumstances are precisely similar, and His Excellency the Acting Governor thinks that precedent and practice had better be followed in the first place, and that Her Majesty's Government should adjust the expenditure finally, for with them, of course, the final decision rests.
The Acting Governor is anxious that the Major General should understand not only that he does not assume to himself the right of pronouncing on whom eventually the charge should fall, but that he refrains from expressing an opinion on the subject until that opinion shall be duly called for.
Under the above circumstances, I have to return the account you enclosed, but shall be glad if you can furnish copies for transmission home.
I have &c. &c.
(180) Mr. H. Alexander, Acting Colonial Secretary.
Your Copy &c.