further experience appears to render desirable.
5.
399
In addition to the Assistant Engineer now on his way out for Mr. Chadwick, I understand from the Colonial Office Despatch that two other Engineers may be expected here shortly for the Public Works Department, one to replace Mr. Cooper and another from the Public Works Department of Ceylon to replace Mr. Orange. But it is not clear to me whether either, and if either, which of these gentlemen it is intended should fill the position of Assistant Surveyor General. It is in my opinion very desirable that a qualified Engineer of experience and special qualifications should be selected for that appointment, even if it should be necessary, as suggested in my report of 6th July 1889 (paragraph 8), to increase the proposed rate of salary. The Assistant Surveyor General should be qualified to replace the Surveyor General in case of illness or leave of absence, and taking into account the duties he has to perform, and the position he occupies, it is very desirable that his age, character, and professional standing should be such as to qualify him for this important position.
As Mr. Malsch has now returned from leave, and as the higher appointments on the Engineering Staff would be filled by the arrival of the two Engineers mentioned in the Colonial Office Despatch, and as from his age and experience, he could hardly be expected to accept the position of one of the Assistant Engineers in the new scheme, I have to recommend that for the present he be appointed to the Office of Land Surveyor, and that the salary of that official be increased from $230 to $300.
6.