CO129-319 - Governor Sir Blake - 1903 [10-11] — Page 574

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command as Captain Superintendent had been brought to a high statą

of efficiency.

4.

I regret to find that his close examination has more than

confirmed the impression forced upon me that the force, both ashore

and afloat, has, since the command devolved upon Mr Badeley, serious-

ly deteriorated in morale and efficiency. I feel that in this

matter I cannot divest myself of responsibility inasmuch as Mr

Badeley's "appointment was recommended by me, but the fact makes it

all the more incumbent upon me to state that, in my opinion, exper-

ience has shown that Mr Badeley does not possess the qualities

necessary for the successful command and guidance of the mixed

police force of this Colony. He is deficient in energy and his

capability of securing discipline must be judged by the results.

In my opinion Mr Badeley is more suited for the Magistracy or the

Treasury and, having regard to the great importance of a thoroughly

efficient police force in Hong Kong I recommend that, if occasion

offers, he should be transferred to another branch of the Cadet

service here or in the Straits Settlements and that a specially

selected man be appointed Captain Superintendent of the Hong Kong

force.

5.

What I have felt bound to write of Mr Badeley must I fear

be

i