No. 47

I have the honor to enclose a letter from Mr Henry Wakeford which
explains itself, in reference to your Despatches named in the margin.

*

The Legislative Assembly having made provision for a Private
Secretary at the rate of £350 per annum I have, subject to your
approval, offered, and Mr Wakeford has accepted that office.

The Assembly have also voted the sum of $1200 for the salary of an
Auditor for 1865, and it being wholly impossible to procure the
services of a competent or reliable officer for that sum I have
appointed Mr Wakeford to perform the duties of that office in
addition to those of Private Secretary drawing salary at the rate of
$1200 per annum from date of appointment.

There is nothing incompatible that I am aware of in these joint
offices, and the joint salary is the minimum upon which a public
officer can maintain a family in this Colony where the cost of living
is so very high.

Mr Wakeford has discharged the duties of Colonial Secretary during
Mr Young's absence with great industry and ability and has rendered
me important assistance in the Government of the Colony.