Palmerston (Report dated 23rd December 1872.)
We minutely examined the ship, and found her most scrupulously clean, and as to accommodation, both below and on deck, admirably adapted for conveying emigrants… We have in hesitation in stating that no emigrant ship has ever entered this port better fitted in every respect as the conveyance of immigrants that the ship “Palmerston”… The captain, surgeon superintendent, and others of the ship seemed to have performed their respective duties in kindness, yet with a degree of firmness approaching to military discipline in carrying out the rules and regulations made for the health and comfort of the immigrants, who acknowledge with gratitude and kindness shown to them on the passage.
Immigration Office, Dunedin, 27th December 1872
Dr. Bordt of the Palmerston has gone as surgeon to the Nevada, can his salary & gratuity be paid.
Sir,
Dr. Paul Bordt who was surgeon Superintendent of the ship “Palmerston” having now fulfilled his obligations to the Government, he has taken the situation of surgeon of the steamer “Nevada” to San Francisco & back.
I have not had time to draw out the Report on the ship Palmerston but the Commissioners have agreed that it should be most favourable. The ship has been admirably fitted up, and the Surgeon Superintendent Dr. Bordt performed his duties in a manner deserving of all praise. He is entitled to his salary & gratuity as per voucher enclosed and I shall feel obliged by your paying him.
The Under Secretary, Land & Immigration Office—Wellington
I have the honour to be Sir, Your most obedient Servant,
Colin Allan, Immigration Officer.
