§ MR. PEEKasked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether a Petition has been received from Nevis, complaining of intimidation used by Governor Pine in stationing an armed guard from Her Majesty's ship "Danae" on 986 the steps of the Court House during a debate on the subject of Confederation; and whether the vote was taken in a properly legally constituted Assembly; whether Her Majesty's Government intends taking any steps to redress the wrongs complained of, and restore confidence to the people of Nevis; whether the Bill for appointing an Inspector of Roads has been drawn up in accordance with the instructions from the Colonial Office; and, whether the Inspector appointed is a "competent engineer," as contemplated?
§ MR. KNATCHBULL-HUGESSENSir, a Petition has been received from Nevis complaining of intimidation used by Governor Pine in stationing an armed guard on the steps of the Court House. The facts are these—A guard of honour, consisting of 17 men and an officer, were stationed in front of the Court House to receive the Governor, but no intimidation was practised or intended. The vote was taken in a properly, legally-constituted Assembly. Her Majesty's Government are not aware of any wrongs, or of any want of confidence in the people of Nevis. Objections have, no doubt, been raised to the scheme of federation; but it is hoped those objections will disappear as the advantages of the scheme proposed become better understood. An Act was sent home by Sir Benjamin Pine for the appointment of a Superintendent of Works, and allowed by Her Majesty in the usual manner. The person appointed is stated by Sir Benjamin Pine to be a fit person, and was appointed at his recommendation, but the Colonial Office have no further information.