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The course he chose then to adopt, is only equalised by my indignation at his denial of what occurred previously and which led to my taking action: and, with much respect, by my surprise that Your Excellency should not only accept his denial without the slightest inquiry, but inform me either that I myself have made a false statement or that my memory has failed me. Had Mr. Seth been remaining in the service I should have requested an immediate inquiry. But his veracity is now a secondary question; the important point is that the Registry should as soon as possible be put up on a proper basis, and his retirement has made a commencement possible. I am content to let Mr. Seth go without any inquiry, I am content that Your Excellency should think that I have invented the story on which the whole of this correspondence rests, or that my memory has played me false, as long as the much needed renovation of the registry is accomplished. One thing has been achieved; and I have little doubt that the rest will follow in process of time. On one point Your Excellency doubtless agrees with me; that if Your Excellency's present views as to the advisability of consulting the Chief Justice with regard to contemplated changes in the Registry had been expressed in Your Excellency's letters of 10th. and 16th. March, 1908, instead of those which were actually expressed, a considerable amount of correspondence would have been saved.
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