373
inclusive.
Dering
I am however very anxious personally. What Inspector Dixon and all the men on in the Naval Guard Police should clearly understand that I take this step reluctantly and mostly from the necessity of pressing the Colony from a legal liability which no one wishes to attach to it, namely that of giving pensions for services not tendered to the Colony.
I understand from Mr Reane, that the Reports against the Members of the Naval Guard Police have been few and that their general conduct has been satisfactory during his brief nominal connection with them.
I have therefore been particular in recording the reasons for the action, which this Government has been compelled to take in the matter, as it would be sorry that any member of the Naval Guard Police should for a moment imagine that his discharge from the Colonial Force implied the slightest imputation against his character.
I have,
(Signed) Richard Graves MacDonnell
Governor and Commander-in-Chief
True Copies)
G. T. M. O'Brien Colonial Secretary.