Colonial Despatches

Consequent upon the discovery of gold and the great influx of people at Sooke Harbour I have found it necessary as a measure of safety to appoint a resident paid Magistrate.

I was informed that American boats in considerable numbers were plying there without licences, and it is absolutely requisite that a Magistrate should be on the spot to prevent whiskey selling to the Indians, andcollisions collisions between them and the white population, and to guard against what is equally important, fights between the various Native and sometimes hostile Tribes who are attracted there by high wages and whiskey.

I have appointed Major Foster who has resigned his seat in the Legislative Assembly to accept the appointment, which he clearly understands to be temporary and subject to your approval.

I have fixed the salary at the rate of $1750 per annum the same as that of the Police Magistrateof of Victoria which is under present circumstances very reasonable. Policemen in Victoria are now receiving $3 1/2 per day, and their services, I am informed by the Commissioner cannot be retained on other terms.