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BRITISH ADMINISTRATION - GERMAN NEW GUINEA;
Rabaul,
New Britain,
13 November 1914.
Sir;
Referring to my conference with you on 4th instant, and your letter to me of that date regarding the occupation of the Island of Nauru by the Military Force under my command, I have the honor to inform you that I duly occupied the Island in question on the 6th instant, without opposition.
The British Flat was hoisted with due ceremony and my Proclamation read on the following day, and a British Garrison placed in possession of the Island.
I left Nauru on the 8th idem taking with me 27 German Prisoners, who have been deported to Australia.
Pending the arrival of the Representative of the High Commissioner of Western Pacific at Nauru, I have instructed Captain Norrie, Officer Commanding the Garrison to act as Administrator, but to leave all matters connected with the employment and regulations of labor at the Works of the Pacific Phosphate Company, to Mr. Edwards the local Representative of that Company, under certain restrictions.
For your information I am enclosing a copy of the detailed instructions given by me to Captain Norrie, copy of which has also been furnished to Mr. Edwards.
I take this opportunity of thanking you sincerely for your kindness and hospitality to myself and Staff on the occasion of my visit to Ocean Island, and also for the valuable information furnished me as to local conditions, operations of the Pacific Phosphate Company, which I found of great value in the adjustment of the rather difficult position at Nauru.
I have the honor to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Colonel.
Administrator.
E.C. Eliot, Esqr.
Resident Commissioner
Gilbert & Ellice Is. Protectorate,
Ocean Island: