my causing Mr. Prior and 'Ng-a-Shing to be brought to me, and I directed them to pay Pratt before 3 o'clock, when, if not paid, I should have to make immediate communication to the Government. The money was forthcoming and Mr. Pratt receipted a voucher for the amount, and I believe that at the present time all the accounts are correct.
I have endeavored to elucidate the matter, and believe that Mr. Prior has become overwhelmed with debt that his endeavors to extricate himself by borrowing money (in which he was assisted by Ng-a-Shing at high interest) increased his difficulties, and that probably to escape from some pressing claim he used the monies entrusted to him with the intention of afterwards paying it back.
I can in no degree prevent this case, which in any feature deserves further clemency than has been used, excepting that Your Excellency may be pleased to call for the resignation of both the offending officers.
P.S. I have to...
(Signed) May, Superintendent Fire Brigade