369
that the General here.
their
Lastly, it seems impolitic to interfere, unless it be absolutely necessary, with the general principle of leaving precedency amongst Naval and Military officers to be decided by relative seniority in their respective professions. That system appears to have worked satisfactorily hitherto, and I therefore hope to see it continued when practicable.
As my opinion on the point has also been asked for the information of the Naval Authorities here, I have ventured to trouble Your Lordship with the subject - because it is one of those questions which, though it be not immediately pressing, may nevertheless be very important, and which it has arisen, should be promptly decided one way or the other.
I have the honour to be,
My Lord,
Your Lordship's most obedient humble Servant,
Roderick Macdonnell
Governor
P.S. Since writing the above I have been furnished with the inclosed copy of a communication from the