Baker Estate Scandal

Hon Mr. Davie said that what had occurred was the insertion in an Opposition organ, without the knowledge of the Hon. Col. Baker of a prospectus declaring on its face that it was for private circulation only, and which was related to a perfectly legitimate transaction in the private affairs of that gentleman. He failed to observe anything to condemn in the prospectus quoted or in the conduct of the parties connected with it. Briefly stated, it would appear that Col. Baker is possessed of an estate believed to be rich in timber and minerals, as well as valuable for agricultural purposes, likely not to be a profitable investment to those who have sufficient means to develop it, and that for the purpose of its development Col. Baker offers his interest in the concern to a syndicate of capitalists in consideration of their putting the necessary money for the development of the property. The vendor, Col. Baker, asks no cash for himself except a trifling sum of 600 pounds to meet the expenses of floating the enterprise, and asks nothing except an allotment of shares in common with those who purchase the estate….