102
Knows that I entertain
grave doubts
as to the feasibility of defending the Colony with the forts that are being made; that I think some of them would be a source of danger in a time of war; that the number already constructed is out of all proportion to our very small garrison: and that the best defence of the Colony would be by floating batteries like Her Majesty's Ship "Wevern", torpedoes, torpedo launches, and the substitution of marines with a local auxiliary corps, for the European Regiment. But, whilst entertaining those views, I have done all in my power to assist the Military Authorities in constructing any works authorized by the War Office; and I need hardly say I shall continue to do so.
I have the honour to be,
My Lord, Your Lordship's Most Obedient
Humble Servant,