No. 24

With reference to my despatch No 6 of the 16th of
May 1864, I have now the honor to forward a certificate
showing that I have granted seven months leave of absence
to Mr Joseph William Trutch, Surveyor General of this Colony.

2. Mr Trutch I believe to be a very good public officer but,
as stated in my despatch above mentioned, I consider his interests
in one of the great rival Roads of this Colony as incompatable
with his holding the Office to which the Duke of Newcastle
directed me to appoint him. I shall be very glad to hear that
Mr Trutch has divested himself of all private property the
possession of which might expose his public acts to unfavorable comment.