QSA846785 1864 Letter from Richard Sheridan to Colonial Secretary 18 May, In letter 64_1666, Colonial Secretarys In Letters Part 3 DR62205

[written at top] R.B. Sheridan W.P.M. employed Special Constable for protection "Don Juan" off Frazers Island

Water Police Office Maryboro

18 May 1864

Sir

I do myself the honor to inform you that on the 13th Instant the Captain of the "Don Juan" Schooner (which vessel is now engaged at the wreck of the "Panama" on the north end of Frazers Island) came to me for protection from the Blacks. He states that "they came in such numbers about the ship that his crew were afraid to berth on Shore; but that they had offered no violence nor molested his party in any way whatsoever."

Under the circumstances and, my own boats[sic] crew being fully occupied, I decided it my duty to employ and sworn in

The Honorable

The Colonial Secretary

Brisbane

[written in margin] Comm'r of Police [initialled] RGWH

[written under that] *P* Maryborough 64.5.27

in a Special Water Police Constable and I succeeded in procuring the services of a very steady intelligent man, well acquainted with the habits of the Aborigines, and I have despatched him with two trustworthy Blacks to the spot, and instructed him to adopt all conciliatory measures to get the Blacks away, and on no account to have recourse to arms unless actually compelled to do so.

Pressure of business has prevented my visiting the vessel myself; but I hope to be able to go there this week.

The Special Constable is to receive 6/- a day while employed and the Blacks I have promised Blankets & Tobacco.

I have the honor to be

Sir

Your most obt. servant

[signed] RB Sheridan W.P.M.

[written overleaf] Payment at rate of 6/- per diem is authorized during employment of the Special Constable referred to in this letter

60.5.27 [initialled] A W M.

[written under that] Noted and returned [initialled] DTS

[written under that BC Hon Col Sec