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for the information of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, that I consider, that were the Steam Launches belonging to the Colonial Government, manned and equipped as proposed in the report, dated 31st August 1883, of the Commission appointed by His Excellency the Governor to consider the matter, they would be useful in time of war as auxiliaries to the Naval Forces employed for the protection of the Colony, and especially for torpedo and submarine mining purposes, and I therefore recommend that the armament required, viz:
2 - Y. pr. Screw boat guns
6 Nordenfelt Machine guns
50 Rifles and bayonets with accoutrements,
should be supplied, on condition that the proposed arrangements for fitting out the launches and providing them with European crews are effected.
2. A Gunery Instructor should be lent from the "Excellent" for drill purposes, the expense being borne by the Colony.
I approve of the suggestion that a simple uniform should be worn by the Officers and men of the Force; one similar to that worn by...