J 46 271 ered his finest when he defeated John McLean . ' 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. Warbuj-ton and Hon . James Farquarson . In 1900, he retired from active politics. His position of Commissioner of Public Works passed to Hon . James H. 272 Cummiskey. ' 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, Mrx.. McLaughlin "all paid warm tributes to the deceasedy referring to his long and faithful career in the public service. There were few public men in this province they said, better known 273 than Mr. McLean and his loss will be deeply regretted." f> The newspaper stated: The late James R. MacLean 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 Mr. MacLean was a devoted husband and kind parent. To his widow and family we join 274- with many others in extending our sincere condolence. '