Napier, William (dates unknown) Law agent. Formerly a merchant, Napier was admitted as a law agent in 1833. He was known for his talent as an actor, and for his wit. In 1835, together with Edward Boustead and George Coleman, he founded the Singapore Free Press and served as its editor until 1846. In 1848, he was made lieutenant- governor of Labuan and became legal adviser to the temenggong of Johor. Napier was the first Freemason initiated in Singapore. Napier Road, named after him, led to his house, which he built in 1854. See also legal profession.