3
148
I am informed that there is no preced-
ent in this Colony for the award of compensation by fire,
but the circumstances appear to me to be very exceptional,
and to merit exceptional treatment, Mr. Hallifax is entitled
to free quarters as part of his salary. None were provided
except a most dangerously inflammable Matshed. He recognis-
ed the risk and endeavoured to insure. The rates were
prohibitive and had he paid some £30 per annum for
insurance the quarters could hardly have been considered to
be free. In these circumstances I propose to extend to
him the same treatment as to Mr. Last, under the terms of
the attached Treasury Minute, and I have the honour to
request your covering approval to this course.
I have the honour to be,
My Lord,
Your Lordship's most obedient,
humble servant,
Governor, &c.
as