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resigned the service with effect from the 31st instant. His retirement affords an opportunity of effecting the retrenchment suggested in my despatch No. 278 of 22nd September, 1892, by abolishing the appointment which he holds on a salary of $2400, and appointing Mr. Wood, the present Accountant in the department, to be Office Assistant and Accountant. The permanent head of the department, Mr. Cooper, is in favour of the arrangement, and the Acting Director of Public Works considers that it would be in every way satisfactory. If Your Lordship concurs, the question arises what increase of emoluments should be given to Mr. Wood in consideration of the addition to his duties. I originally intended to recommend an addition of $30 a month, but in view of the representations contained in the letter of which I enclose a copy, from Mr. Wood, I shall
1893.