452
It is final difficult, owing to coming to a determination upon the facts.
I think the Government might refer the question of Mr. Caulfield's claim to some independent person to take evidence and report as to what was the cause of the injuries complained of and what would be a fair compensation for them. If the result of his report should amount in substance to a finding that a department of the Government was to blame for what happened, the requisite authority might then be obtained and compensation awarded to Mr. Caulfield.
(Signed) St. Edward O'Malley
19th February 1881.
Attorney General.
Minute by His Excellency the Governor.
22nd February 1881.
Let the Attorney General's opinion be acted on, if the other members of the Executive Council concur.
(Signed) J. Pope Hennessy
I concur.
(Signed) Frederick Stewart.
I concur.
(Signed) H. Donovan,
Major General.