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Department belonging to Mr. Ford and the Executive.
I therefore think that arrangements should be made as soon as possible for Mr. Ford's having the direct management of the Public Gardens and general working under the Governor or such Committee as may be appointed.
He should be responsible for all the accounts and payments on behalf of his Department.
I wish to know what special arrangements are necessary to give effect to this change, and whether there are any reasons for regarding it as undesirable.
(Signed) R. G. Macdonnell.
Minuted by M. Austin
I see no objection to the Garden Department being removed from the charge of the Surveyor General and placed under the superintendence of the Head Gardener controlled by the Committee. The proposed monthly salary abstract must, as per the Estimate, be charged to the Survey Department, but that is a matter which can be easily arranged with the Audit Officer, and I shall be very glad to have whatever information he may require as to the manner in which his accounts should be kept and made out. For the Estimates of 1873, it will be as well, perhaps, to separate the Gardens altogether from the Survey Department.
(Signed) M. Austin.
Colonial Secretary – 4th January 1872.