to the fact that
MO objection was urged 8. to the enclosed estimates, the opinion was as to of the Camail being that the expenditure was wisely arranged. This, however, did not prevent much discussion on the propriety of dealing with the Special Fund in any way except by votes of the Council.
I am obliged to do so, as the Duke of Buckingham's prohibition against putting the proceeds of the Sims fund to the Estimates of Revenue is continued, and I do not well see how that prohibition can safely be relaxed, without subjecting this Government to imputations which it is desirable to avoid.
336
I may, however, suggest to your Lordship the expediency of allowing the Governor to consult the Legislative Council unofficially, that is not in their legislative capacity, as to the appropriation of any part of the Special Fund in accordance with general principles to be laid down by Her Majesty's Government, and which I presume could not differ much from the principles that at present regulate the appropriation of a portion of that Fund.
I think there would be an advantage in thus constituting the Governor and Council, as it were, trustees of the local management of that Fund on principles...