Contained in my predecessor's despatch: no 1344 of the 3rd of October 1849; and in one important particular relating to depriving the visiting justices of the power of inflicting punishments for the more serious offences, it is, in accordance with the recommendations contained in the letter from the Home Office of 4th Aug. 1879, enclosed in despatch, which is in line with English law in Seychelles. I regret that no notice was taken of this point in my despatch: no 29 of 29th July last.
I cannot foresee how the misunderstanding may have arisen from the draft ordinance which you were instructed to prepare. In the meantime, there are special reasons which render it advisable, in my opinion, not to enact the proposed Visiting Magistrates Ordinance with the usual powers of punishment.
There are 630 cases of the sort, and I will submit to you a case which will doubtless include the provisions of the present ordinance; and I shall therefore refrain from advising Mr. Cutter on rendering any address to Her Majesty on this Ordinance. I should wish to be informed whether the draft ordinance has been received.
I request that you will explain fully in order to come to a decision, and that you will report to me as soon as possible, accompanied by the report of the Superintendent of the gaol for which my predecessor asked in his despatch.