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it had to be borne in mind that unless purchased now there will be little probability of the Government being able to get possession of it except at an exorbitant rate when it is actually required. I am authorized to say that if Your Lordship approves of the purchase the amount will be readily voted by the Councillors. As to the advisability of buying the Lot from the Military Authorities for the Colonial Government, there is no other plot of ground available for building purposes in that neighborhood. Enquiries were instituted and calculations made, which induced me to suggest $30,000 as a fair price to pay for this property. It was submitted informally to the Members of the Legislative Council, and the Unofficial Members took time to consider the fair value of the property, and their estimates varied from $30,000 to $40,000. It was understood, however, that if the purchase was effected, the Government would grant the present lease for the buildings (and ...