1859 3 Page EL DEMERARA LIVERPOOL SANDBACH TINNE. Death Of Plantation Worker

Demerara, 9th March 1859

John A. Tinne Esq.

Dear Sir,

By the last Mail Steamer yours of the 31st January on the subject of the death of the Coolie Moothu [?], I regret that at that time I had not so much as any one, or rather that I was in error in judgment on the part of Mr Cameron in not admitting him into the Estate Hospital, and I am satisfied that if he had sufficiently considered the matter at the moment he would have done so, and acquit him of anything in the matter beyond an error of judgment.

I believe Mr Cameron to be as humane a man as any in the Colony. As regards the inquest, it was a perfect mockery, and Mr Cameron had no means of defending himself there, as he was himself summoned only as a witness, the whole power being dictated by Mr Shaw, and one of the witnesses his own servant.

I believe a very moderate case has now come properly before the Governor, and after enquiring into the matter I write to say that I believe the real facts of the case were never laid before him.

The unfortunate man that died was a Madrassee coolie, and the worst of those people have turned out badly here. I believe the greater part of those brought here from that part of India were vagabonds by profession in their own country, and as soon as their indenture expires on an estate, they wander about the country and sometimes die from exposure.

A fortnight ago when I was in Essequibo one of these people was picked up dead in front of the Police Station. All these things are very much to be deplored, but the Planters have no power to prevent them, as long as these people are kept on the Estates they are cared for and properly looked after, but when their time expires they are free to go where they please.

I have explained to Mr Cameron how much this has injured him, and I trust that he regrets the circumstances as much as any one, and one [?] that he has managed the Estate to my satisfaction, and I should be sorry to lose his services.

I assure you that it is not an easy matter at present to get competent men, and the difficulty is likely to increase every year.

I am Dear Sir,

Yours faithfully,

James Stewart