A copy from an abridgement of an examination before the Prison Committee of the House of Commons during the last year.

The principal evidence examined by the Prison Committee was Alexander Ryley, Esq., Merchant at Sydney. Mr Ryley had been a Magistrate in the Colony for fourteen years and had filled there many important official situations. It is needless for me to praise the admiral testimony given by this Witness: there can be but one opinion of its merit; his good sense – sound and rational views – his opinions, when examined upon questions of great delicacy, touching the Reputation of others; and, above all, the air of [indecipherable] and truth which is apparent in every word he uttered, prove him one of the most valuable and trustworthy witnesses that ever gave testimony before a Committee of Parliament. I feel assured he has not uttered one word that is not strictly correct: but though there cannot be found in his evidence the least appearance of exaggeration yet I think I perceive in several instances, a backwardness to accuse, or to risk the chance of doing injury to others which does him great credit and renders all he has said, which in the smallest degree has a tendency to criminate of the greatest weight and authority. Let me then direct your Lordship’s attention to evidence as to the authority of the Governor [indecipherable] observed that the Magistrates are appointed and moved at the Governor’s sole will and pleasure.