CO129-139 - Sir MacDonnell - 1869 [8-12] — Page 508

501

In reply I have the honor to state that looking at the tenor of Your Lordship's despatches of the 7th and 8th October, numbered 159 and 165 respectively, which instruct me peremptorily to limit to $30,000 the future annual contribution from the Special Fund to Police expenses, and to refund a large sum of not less than $70,000 long since expended under the supposed sanction of the Secretary of State's instructions, (No.30 of April 19, 1868), - the financial position of the Colony is thereby rendered such as must preclude any present addition to the Police Force.

Therefore, however useful the object which I had in view, and though provision for the expense is made in the Estimates for 1870, yet, as those Estimates can only be carried out within the limits of Your Lordship's last instructions, there are consequently no funds available, and I have no alternative but to withdraw my application.

I have the honor to be,

My Lord,

Your Lordship's most obedient,

humble servant,

James McDonnell

Governor.

714

8704. 741

9657

168

501

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