It is a question therefore whether any further answer is wanted.
The memorial now set in support of Protest is answered by a very able and exhaustive despatch, it would be superfluous to advance any additional points to the points raised by the memorialists. I think it is clear that
1. Nick Salaries ought not be reduced unless the finances of a colony are in a critical condition.
2. It has not been proved to demonstration and a committee appointed for that purpose is not likely to be of the very slightest use.
3. There is no officer in the whole colonial service more likely than Mr. O'Brien to be defective in judgment.
4. There is strict and official...
5. The objects of the Unofficials are clearly not purely public spirited, in attacking the officials they are meaning also to attack the Colonial office.
1(a) because of the critical condition (6) because of the Gaol and other minor reasons e.g. sending out that Hongkong is not in a condition. Note especially what is commented on in this despatch, that, in spite of a falling off, the total of the revenue in the opium shows an increase.
3. It would be a special hardship to reduce these salaries in the present Condition of Silver. The Governor and Colonial Secretary are already beginning the work of cutting down Establishments.
I do not think it would be well to challenge the statement in par. 14, as there is no division of opinion, as to the necessity for a reformation in the constitution Council.
It is true, which I do not for a moment believe, we shall hear further of it without inviting discussion.
I would suggest answering by reference.