FL4656126

[Page 339]

(Copy)

Sydney 20th October 1859

Sir,

When the first Ministry, formed under the
present Constitution of this Colony, which from Officers,
there was some uncertainty as to the practice in the
North American Colonies, since the introduction of
Responsible Government, and we also thought it
possible that advantage might arise from continuing
on the list of Members of the Executive Council – as in
the case of Privy Councillors, in England, holding no
office, and in no way attached to the Government.

All doubt as to the practice in other Colonies
bring now removed, I have no wish to retain a
merely nominal distinction of questionable public
advantage – I beg, therefore, respectfully, to place
in your Excellency's hands my resignation of the
appointment to the Executive Council.

I have the honour to be,
Sir
Your obedt Servant

Jas. Macarthur

His Excellency
Sir W, Denison K.C.B.
&c &c &c