Ms. Shirley Lincoln and Mrs. Lydia T. Scott, who served as the transcribers of the
documents, made this publication possible. They worked diligently on the least
rewarding aspect of this work, so that we could have a permanent computer-based
record for present and future use. Valuable assistance in locating documents was
provided by Beverly Smith of the Enid M. Baa Public Library on St. Thomas, Donald G.
Cole, Archivist of the Virgin Islands Legislature, Virginia Sablan, Professional Staff for
the Subcommittee on Insular and International Affairs of the U.S. House of
Representatives, and George Tyson, local historian. Finally, Cathy O'Gara of Ad Pro,
displayed her usual talent and imagination in designing the cover and general format
of the publication. For this contribution, and for past contributions to Bureau of Public
Administration publications, she has my gratitude and that of the committee.

 In June of 1993, I will leave my position as Director of the Bureau of Public
Administration, which I have held since 1985, in order to return to my teaching
position in political science. It makes me personally very proud that the last
publication of the Bureau under my leadership will be this compilation of documents,
which will serve generations of scholars and students interested in the history, politics,
and government of the U. S. Virgin Islands. It represents my small act of appreciation
for all the Virgin Islands has meant to me and my hopes for a political status that will
promote the welfare and dignity of these islands and their people.


 Paul M. Leary, Director
 Bureau of Public Administration
 University of the Virgin Islands

 October 1, 1992