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the Assistant Harbour Master in $500,neither of us handle
any money, nor in view of the comprehensive duties, afloat
and at out-stations, laid down by Capt. Rumsey for the Assist
ant Harbour Master in the printed instructions dated 14th.
June, 1888, and since materially added to (it may be observed
that the Assistant Harbour Master checks the shipping and
discharge books for the collection of which monies the
shroff is detached to the Mercantile Marine Office) does it
seem very clear how the Assistant Harbour Master can possi-
bly take the personal custody of the light dues.
The Assistant Harbour Master is not named
in the ordinance as "The Collector of Light Dues", in the
Ord. 26 of 1891, section 33 the person named is "such officer
as the Governor shall from time to time appoint to collect
the same". I was gazettea Collector of Light Dues on arri-
val in the Colony, a local appointment, for which my predeces
sors, Captain McEwen and Rumsey,received an allowance. I
receive none.
For twenty years Mr. Machaco has collectea
the light ques this is not an innovation at any instance
or for my convenience. In recording this fact I am not at-
tepting to shirk any responsibility, that is equitably mine,
but in the minute referred to the Hon. the Harbour Master
distinctly reflects on me, and I am grateful for this oppor-
tunity, for refuting the implication of neglect of duty therein made.