CO129-271 - Governor Sir Robinson - 1896 [1-4] — Page 315

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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.