Officer Deland (the subject of the despatch) is being considered for dismissal due to his conduct, insubordination, and other issues, although the question of his removal is still being entertained and the Secretary of State has been informed.
If the Council had withheld their opinion on the proper course of action, it would have been better to await the Governor's decision and complete the investigation.
I think it may be best to instruct the Governor differently.
In answering this despatch, I should say first that Sir R. M. appears to have entirely misapprehended the purport of Lord Granville's confidential despatch of Apr. 7/70, which can in no way bear the construction he has placed upon it.
I should say so much, as if left uncontradicted, it might be assumed that his interpretation was acquiesced in.
It appears to be of little use at this moment to consider the competency of Mr. Moortoon, but that the only thing we can do is to put the matter straight according to the rules and regulations concerned.
The service must then take its course, and the conduct of Sir R. M. should be dealt with in accordance with those rules.
It should then be explained to Sir R. M. that the Governor was not warranted in making the use he did of Granville's despatch, which was written two years ago and in no way applied to the actual circumstances.
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