Report by the Captain Superintendent.
I have the honour to report that I cannot make the distance across by any of the maps in my office less than 1600 yards; the difference stated: (2411–1600) = 811 yards appears excessive.
The Company measured the distance by the number of revolutions of a cylinder. I think some abatement might be made as the steamer was laid up for 3 to 3½ hours during the whole day's work, although the work is to be paid for.
The previous estimate (letter 231 of 9th October and enclosure) was $1200.
(signed) W. M. Deane,
25th October 1880
Captain Superintendent.