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Rh the school. But in the course of a few months Dr. Macdonald's strength again failed him. He continued nominally in charge of the school for some time longer; but at last it became painfully apparent to the governors, that there was little or no probability of his being again able to resume the duties of Rector, and with extreme regret they found themselves compelled to take steps to secure a successor. Dr. Macdonald's official connection with the school ceased on Sept. 30th, 1886. His retirement from the Rectorship, caused the profoundest grief and disappointment to the governors and the friends of the school, and indeed to all within the Otago district, who had the interests of the higher education at heart. He had, during his short career in Dunedin, given abundant proof of surpassing ability, as Head Master of the High School, as well as in various other capacities, while his personal qualities had endeared him to a large circle of friends.

In February 1883, Mr. M. Watson, M.A., entered on his duties as classical assistant to the Rector. He was selected for the position by Dr. Morrison, of the Glasgow Academy. In March 1885, Mr. E. E. Morrison, M.A., who had been appointed by Sir F. D. Bell, and Dr. James Macdonald, of Glasgow, commenced his duties as English Master, in the room of Mr. A. Wilson, who had been appointed to the Rectorship of the Girl's High School, rendered vacant by the resignation of Mrs Burn. In the beginning of 1886, Mr E. E. Morrison and Mrs Dr W. Macdonald, were placed in charge of the Boarding-House, in the room of Mr. and Mrs. Thomson, who had asked to be relieved of the duty.

The Board of Governors placed the selection of a successor to Dr. Macdonald in the hands of Sir F. D. Bell and Dr. James Macdonald, of Glasgow, and these gentlemen made choice of the Rev. Henry Belcher, M.A., LL.D., Fellow and late Chaplain and Classical Master in the school, King's College, London. That gentlemen entered on his duties in March, 1886, and his ability and indefatigable efforts, aided by a staff of well-qualified masters, have maintained the school in a high state of efficiency. The general tone of the school is undoubtedly most satisfactory,