On consideration, when desiring almost any project of a general nature, Character and as the present Auditor General is an Officer of considerable acquirements and possesses by his general standing, high honor and business aptitude the requirements and weight, which would assist the debates and give additional Credit with the Public to the resolutions of Council, I should be glad to have his assistance there.
The Council seems at present somewhat too limited, and difficulties are apt to occur in procuring a tolerable Quorum. I would therefore add one at least to the present number. I must however say that I would prefer no addition, if I did not feel it perfectly safe in supporting Mr. Rennie for your Lordship's favorable consideration.
At the same time it would be understood that the appointment is not to extend to any one holding the office of Auditor General, but to be confined to Mr. Rennie for whose fitness alone I can answer.
During Mr. Mercer’s recent absence for several months, W. Rennie acted as Colonial Secretary, and I had every reason to be satisfied with his tact and zealous services during a period of considerable excitement and discussion, owing to the introduction of the new legislative enactments Affecting the Chinese, and the taxation of the foreign mercantile Community by the late Act. It was then an opportunity of fully testing Mr. Rennie's ability and tact, such as rarely occurs. I have not however mentioned my suggestion to Rennie or any one else.
Therefore Your Lordship...