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A selection from the writings and speeches of John Robert Godley

The West Indies

The West Indies.

On this group I have stated by anticipation some of the general views which seem to me to deserve consideration. The West Indian Colonies are divided into two military commands: first, Jamaica, and secondly, the Windward and Leeward Islands. Jamaica must, I apprehend, be admitted as falling more or less within the category of places of which the occupation conduces to the general strength of the Empire abroad. The regular troops in it ought, doubtless, to be reduced within the smallest compass which Her Majesty's Government, assisted by professional advisers, may consider compatible with safety; but so long as a Colonial system is upheld at all, I should think it could not be denied that this great island ought to be the seat of some Imperial forces, maintained at the national charge. In the Windward and Leeward Islands, I quite admit that the troops ought not to be scattered about for purposes of police; but I think that there ought to be some small central force sufficient to protect any arsenals that we possess in this region, and also to be moved in case of need to any scene of insurrection or civil disturbance.