I have prepared a return of the number of inquests in former years, and I find that the number of cases has increased greatly with the growth of the population, and whereas in former years the mortuary was in the centre of the city and was easily accessible, the circumstances are now different.
Of the 134 cases which I have enumerated, I trust that your Lordship will be able to deal with them in a liberal spirit. The office is less paid than any of the other subsidiary appointments and its duties have been rendered more difficult as it has been removed to the Government Civil Hospital and is now to be removed still further away.
The inquests for the convening of witnesses and others have to be held in the height of the day, and the exposure to the sun in the hot weather is dangerous and unhealthy. Under the circumstances, the duties are infinitely more disagreeable. If performed conscientiously, there is no possibility of any diminution of such duties, and on the contrary, they must continue to increase.
As I have said, I am compelled to hold the post and I shall continue to hold it even if your Lordship's reply is unfavourable, but I earnestly beg that you will take into consideration the thankless nature of the office, its depressing duties, and...