275
24.
in law it seemed to me that he might act as First Police
Magistrate. This would obviate the necessity of recalling
Mr Hallifax. I proposed to take this course unless from
your more intimate knowledge you were prepared to advise me
that Mr Irving is bot fitted to perform these duties".
Thomson reported unfavourably, and Mr pallifax was recalled
from leave.
Mr
With all respect I submit that Mr Thomson's
telephoned message, which was not even supported by a subse-
quent written minute, has lost me an acting appointment, and
is calculated to block my advancement; and that seldom has
#
the standing of a senior and not unsuccessful officer been
demolished with such ease and in so unconsidered a fashion.
The second point to which I respectfully beg
A
to call Your Lordship's attention, is the number of times
that I have been passed by, when recommendations for acting
and appointments have been made; how my consequent lack of expo-
rience has lost me further opportunities of advancement.
This happened when Mr Messer and Mr Ross were regarded as
qualified while I was regarded as not qualified for the substan-
tive appointment of Postmaster General (pages 9,10.) By losing
the appointment, I have also twice lost the appointment of
acting Treasurer, which Mr Messer has filled in addition to
his own duties. Mr Hallifax was recommended for the substan-
tive appointment of First Magistrate over my head, and the
acting appointment is still being held by him.
His Excellency's reply to my letter of protest
left me with no remedy but one, short of an appeal to Your
I felt that though I had to all intents been
Lordship.