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ered his finest when he defeated John MeLean.27l On April 22,1891 James R. MacLean was appointed to the Executive Council as comm— issioner of Public Works. He served in this capacity under the administrations of Hon. Fred Peters, Hon. A.B. Warburton and Hon. James Farquarson. In 1900, he retired from active politics. His position of Commissioner of Public Works passed to Hon. James H. Cummiskey.272

On the day that James R. MacLean died the flag over the provincial building flew at half mast. The Assembly paid honor to him. Premier Peters, Mr.MacLean, Hon. James Richards, Hon. J.H. Cummiskey, Hri. McLaughlin "all paid warm tributes to the deceased, referring to his long and faithful career in the public service. There were few public men in this province they said, better known than Mr. McLean and his loss will be deeply regretted."2l75 The newspaper stated:

The late James R. NacLean was a prominent Liberal and fought

for his party in the dark days of adversity as well as the

brighter days of prosperity. His connection with the

public works department brought him into contract with

many people in all parts of the Island., and he even main"

tained in his dealings a geniality to all and a willingness

to carry out his duties to the best of his ability. He

had an excellent knowledge of the requirements of the

province and was well versed in the more important public

affairs. In his private life F . MacLean was a devoted

husband and kind parent. To his widow and family we join

with many others in extending our sincere condolence.d74