Colonial Despatches

The Legislature of this Colony met according to Proclamation on the 2nd day of September, and I have now the honour of transmitting a copy of my Speech and of the Addresses of the Legislature in reply.

2. I am unwilling atthis this early stage of the Session to hazard an opinion on the course which the newly elected Assembly may adopt in reference to the measures recommended, in obedience to Your Grace's instructions, in furtherance of the Overland transit scheme and for the permanent support of the Government of this Colony.

3. There is evidently a feeling among the Members of both Houses that the Governor's salary is fixed at too high a rate, not as respects the inevitable expense or dignity of the position, but as respects the means of the Colony—and I think it is not improbable that the House may propose a reduction in the sum stated.

4. There appears also to be a misgiving among the Members about the Overland Transit Company. It is feared that the company will not carry out the Scheme in a satisfactory manner; and that therefore the Colony ought not to be pledged to continue the payments of the sums guaranteed, for any term, beyond the time the Telegraph is at work—or in short that the payments should cease together with the permanent operation of the Telegraph, as a security for the faithful performance of the Contract on the part of the Company.

5. I will continue to address Your Grace from time to time with respect to the important proceedings of the Legislature.