64 REPORT OF THE FOREST, FISH AND GAME COMMISSION. 



sent of his coming in advance of his movements. For all of this hazardous and 

 laborious work they are paid the small salary of $500 a year. It is thus expected 

 that the Protector will devote his entire time and best efforts for the benefit of the 

 people for the small sum of $41.66 per month. Paying them so meagerly, it would 

 seem, as though their necessary and proper traveling expenses should be paid with- 

 out any limit as to the amount thereof. At present they are allowed by law the 

 sum of $37.50 per month for necessary expenses. Even though they are compelled 

 to live at hotels, when away from home, and may spend $100 per month for railroad, 

 boat, livery, help and sustenance, they are reimbursed only to the amount allowed 

 by law, namely, $37.50 per month. I am aware that many criticise the State depart- 

 ments as constantly increasing the expense of government, but where is there in this 

 country work of this character so poorly rewarded? It seems to me that work that 

 is worth doing at all is worth doing aright, and if Protectors are paid suitably for 

 their services, better results will be accomplished. Therefore I recommend that the 

 salary of the Protectors be fixed at $75 per month and that they be allowed neces- 

 sary expenses to the amount of $50 per month. In fixing their salary at the amount 

 stated, I think it wise and proper to provide that they must not have any other busi- 

 ness that will in any manner interfere with their work as Protectors, and that they 

 must give their entire time and attention to the work of the Department. I would 

 also recommend that the provisions of the law that give Protectors one-half of 

 recoveries be abolished in case their salaries are made $75 per month, for the 

 reason that invariably when a case is reached for trial defendant alleges selfish and 

 financial interests of the prosecuting of^cial, with a cry that the only object is blood 

 money, which in many instances has a tendency to lessen the fine or the judgment, 

 thereby defeating the ends of justice. 



Each year of the legal work of this branch of the Department, weak spots are 

 found in the law^ under which prosecutions must be made. Such instances have 

 been found during the last year, and I trust amendments will be proposed that will 

 perfect the law wherever found defective. 



In conclusion I desire to tender my thanks to your Honorable Body for the 

 support always cordially given me in conducting the work under my supervision. 



All of which is respectfully submitted. 



J. WARREN POND, 



Chief Game Protector. 



