CO129-366 - Governor Sir Lugard Acting Governor May - 1910 [4-5] — Page 246

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you expressed the vie very strongly that Mr Hallifax was better qualified than Mr Irving for the permanent post of First Magistrate. I however decided to appoint Mr Hazeland, Mr Irving states that you told him it was a pity he had never acted on the bench. This also was my view.

Later, an opportunity offered for the Acting Post of First Magistrate, and I immediately thought of Mr Irving, and proposed to avoid Mr Hallifax' regall by appointing him. The Acting Colonial- Secretary however gave it as his opinion that Mr Irving was not well qualified for the Post. His precise words were taken down from a telephone message, and are recorded in my Minute of 13th September, 1909, in 6864/08. In view of this e- phatic opinion, added to your own, and seeing that Mr Irving was on leave, and would only return just as the maximum pressure in his own Department occurs,

I decided after some thought to recall Mr Hallifax.

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As regards his work as Director of Educa- tion I have only praise, and it is a branch in which I take a very special interest.

The following is the minute to which His

Excellency refers, as containing the Acting Colonial Secre-

tary's precise words.

Minute by H.E. the Governor to Colonial Secretary. (Mr Thonson)

of 12th September, 1909.

I have spoken with you today (Sunday) on this subject (filling acting appointments caused by Sir F. Piggott's leave. E.A.I.) and suggested that Mr Irving might act as Firat Police Magistrate till the December examination of schools begins. (On what date is he due back from leave?) This would obviate the recall of Mr Hallifax, Please telephone early after investigation, and if the proposal is feasible, I will modify enclosed draft to the Chief Justice accordingly.

Minute from the Same to the same dated 13th September, 1909. Confidential.

I telephoned to you this morning that as Mr Irving has passed in law and is due back on November 5th, it seemed to me that he might act from that date as First Police Magistrate. Mr Wolfe might be able to assist the Director of Education in his work during examination period. This would obviate