Earnscliffe, Ottawa

12 October 1885

Private My dear Robinson,

Your five years expired, I think, in July last, and you have I suppose been expecting a communication ever since as to your successor. I am opposed, so I stated to you when you were appointed, to a second term - unless with an interval - and for that reason pressed you to take the Collectorship of Customs instead. - If I reappointed one Lt. Governor the others

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who are all political friends would feel slighted if the same favour were not granted them. As it is, because McKenzie when in power committed to a second term for Archibald in N. Scotia, I have applications founded on that precedent.

However if it suits you - it could be arranged between you and me that without a new appt. you may hold on say until 1 July next (1886) When that time comes, we can then take stock of the position - Let me know if you agree to this, or if you

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would prefer the immediate appt. of a successor.

If you decide to remain, the public need not know the terms of the arrangement. Your statement that you had received no letter of recall should be enough to satisfy public curiosity.

Of course I do not include Mrs Robinson among "the public". Pray present her my best regards and believe me

Sincerely Yours

[signed]
John A. Macdonald

Toronto

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