Document pass on to the Secretary of State without further remarks by myself.
2. My reasons for asking permission to remain silent are these. On 14 July last I earnestly begged to be relieved of all connection with Victoria College on account of the hostile attitude assumed by the Head Master. But I was ordered to proceed with the examination of the College on the basis of the scheme to which the Head Master had given his cordial approval. I did so. I examined carefully into the condition of the College in strict accordance with that scheme and reported the results honestly, therefore without fear or favour, and as before God and my conscience. My position and attitude was that of an impartial examiner.
I have now read the Head Master's strictures on my report, but see no reason to modify my views. If I were to enter upon any discussion of the Head Master's criticisms of my report, I would have to relinquish the attitude of an independent examiner and to descend into the arena of polemics. I do not apprehend my instructions to imply that, nor do I believe it would serve any useful purpose. I am quite content to abide by any decision the Government may come to in the matter, feeling sure that, even if my report should fail to convince the Government of the truths embodied in it, the course of events will in due time bring a full justification of my assertion that both the organization and methods of the College require a radical reform before it can possibly be what it ought to be, viz. the model...
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