29

H.—34

In considering my defence, I would like you to cake into consideration my fairly lengthy service and my unblemished record during that period. I have always striven to do my best for the Department and the public, and if reinstated 1 will endeavour to give you every satisfaction. I am, &c, T. W. West. W. Gray, Esq., Secretary, Post and Telegraph Department, Wellington. Forwarded through Chief Postmaster, Christchurch.

Sic, — Ghristohurch, 13th September, 1905. In compliance with your request of the Bth instant, I respectfully beg to make the following statement : — I admit joining with Messrs. Larcombe, Willis, and West in sending to Mr. T. E. Taylor the telegram quoted in your service to me. At the time I was not aware that I was breaking any departmental regulation by so doing, and acted in complete ignorance of any such regulation. I express regret for the breach of duty committed, and beg to assure you that I had no intention of going beyond the regulations. I trust this statement will prove satisfactory. Should you permit me to resume duty, I will make myself conversant with the regulations of the Department, and will see that there will be no cause for such a charge in the future. I am, &c, The Secretary, Post and Telegraph Department, Wellington. D. H. Lundon. Through the Chief Postmaster, Christchurch.

Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9os.