RETRENCHMENT IN CANTERBURY.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 184, 14 December 1868, Page 3

RETRENCHMENT IN CANTERBURY.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE STAB. Sir, — An article appeared on Saturday in your contemporary the Lyttelton Times, with the above heading, and signed " Examiner : " under the impression that the writer of this article has knowingly distorted the truth, I will endeavour to state a few facts. When the appointment of Port officer was created, the clamour of thoae interested with the trade of Timaru, . Kaiapoi, Saltwater Creek, the Heathcote, add to which the West Coast Rivers, &c, compelled the Government to obtain the services of an educated gentleman, competent to undertake the survey of these places and report thereon. Captain Gibson, then commanding the s.s. Auckland, was recommended to the Government for those duties which Captain Sproul's education

unsuited him for. At this time Captain Sproul's salary was increased thirty-three per cent, and his coxswain, Mr Norris, appointed pilot under him, to perform all duties afloat. This last appointment was made in some measure owing to the constant complaints of Captain Sproul's want of courtesy. From that time to his removal to the Heads his office was a sinecure. Disrating an officer is nothing now to nautical men, which Captain Sproul knows well from past experience, especially those guilty of insubordination and contempt of orders. CaptaiD Sproul has only himself to thank for his present position, and had he chosen, he doubtless would be still in the enjoyment of his Otium cum dignitate office, with its handsome appendage of £300 per annum. Your obedient 'servant, NAUTA.