Transcription Page 1

Melton July 23 1851

Sir,
1 I have the honor to report
for the information of His
Excellency the Lieutenant
Governor, that on the night
21st inst seven of the Native
Troopers comprising the
Guard at the Pentridge
Stockade deserted from their
Barracks and have not since
been heard of. In consequence
of which I am much embarrassed
in the performance of my duties
at that Station.

2 I have long been of opinion
that the duties required to be performed
by the Native Troopers on this
Establishment have been more
than their constitutions could
bear as they are unable to stand
the cold and wet nights and
the constant duty required on
a penal Establishment.

3 This serious break of discipline
I

The Honorable
The Colonial Secretary
Melbourne

[annotation: top]

51/183 23rd July 1851
The Commandant of Native Plc to the Colonial
Secretary reporting the desertion of several of
Native Police from the Station

Transcription Page 2

I am aware is a great disgrace
to the Corps, but after careful
enquiries I cannot attach any
blame to the Officers in command
of the detachment or any of
the Europeans.

4 The only way I can see in
which the duties can be pro-
perly carried on for the future
is, that three additional corporals
(European) should be attached
to the Party, who could do the
night duty, and the Natives are
well able to guard the road
Gangs in the day time, and the
expenses of this more men would
amount for five months to
£38-10-0, which I think the
funds of the Department will
bear. The case at present is
one of emergency and I have
therefore to request you will
give it early consideration as
I am quite confident that
unless a sufficient Guard be
stationed at the Stockade
there will be constant escapes
of Prisoners from the roads.

I have the honor to be
Sir
Your most obdt servant
H W Pultney Dana
Commandant
Native Police

[annotation: cross written]

If the cost of
the addition pro-
posed can be met by
the saving in the reduction
of the Native Corps for the remain
der of the year I have no objection
Perhaps this may at once be ascertained.
C. L. LaTrobe
23 July 1891

[stamped]

TO BE RETURNED

Will the Col Architect be good enough to say how
this will be. The number of
men is seven to be deducted
from the strength of the Native
Police 23 July 51

The additional cost of three white men
in the place of the seven natives deserted
will be £19.10.8; and referring to my
minute of the 20th June last, on the
”Return of Native Police Funds”, dated
June 16th, I am of opinion that with due economy
at the outstations of this Corps, that the balance
there mentioned will permit of this unforeseen
expenditure.

Henry Ginn {as on PROV web site}
Colonial Architect

Approved but
Mr Dana must be made fully aware of
the conditions
C. J. L
25th July 51