PAPERS LADI BEFORE THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF HONGKONG AUGUST, 1886 TO SEPTEMBER, 1887.
Table of Contents
1. Birth & Deaths
Returns for 1886
2. Blue Book
Report on Blue Book
3. Botanical and afforestation Department
Report for 1886
4. Causeway Bay
Reclamation of
5. Child adoption and Domestic Service
Correspondence Respecting
6. Conference
Correspondence Respecting the Nomination of a Representative to Take Part in a Conference to Be Held in London for the Purpose of Discussing Certain Questions of Common interest to all Parts of the Empire
7. Convents, Italian and French
Deaths in
8. Criminal Statistics
Returns for 1886
9. Ecclesiastical Grants
Withdrawal of
10. Education
Reports for 1886
11. Estimates
Governor's Minute on Estimates for 1887
12. Finance Committee
Correspondence for Making Public the Proceedings of
13. Finance Committee
Report of Proceedings
14. Fire Brigade
Report for 1886
15. Flogging
Correspondence in Connection With the Whipping Ordinance
16. Gaol
Report for 1886
17. Gaol
Report of Commission
18. German Mail Steamers
Correspondence Respecting
19. Governor
Sir G W Des Voeux appointed
20. Harbour Department
Report for 1886
21. Jubilee
As to Celebration of
22. Kennedy town
Eviction of Squatters at
23. Land Commission
Report of
24. Leave
Extension of Governor's
25. Legislative Counciil
Governor's Speech at Closing of Session
26. Legislative Council
Governor's Speech at Opening of Session
27. Legislative Council
Proceedings
28. Legislative Council
Address in Reply to Governor's Speech
29. Lighthouse
Proposed on Gap Rock
30. Loan
Correspondence Respecting Proposed
31. Medical Department
Report for 1886
32. Observatory
Reports
33. Police
Report for 1886
34. Post office
Report for 1886
35. Praya Extension
Memorandum By Governor on the Question of
36. Public Health Bill
Dr. Ho Kai's Protest, and Rejoinder of Sanitary Board
37. Public Works
Estimate of Contemplated
38. Revenue and Expenditure
Statement of
39. Sir George Bowen
Departure of
40. Trade
Diplomatic and Consular assistance to
41. Unstamped Correspondence
Return of
42. Water Famine
Despatch Respecting
HONGKONG.
RETURNS OF BIRTHS AND DEATHS FOR THE YEAR 1886.
No. 18
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 18th February, 1887.
RETURNS OF BIRTHS AND DEATHS FOR THE YEAR 1886, ENDING 31ST DECEMBER.
87.
DISTRICTS.
BRITISH AND FOREIGN COMMUNITY.
CHINESE.
DEATHS. BRITISH AND FOREIGN COMMUNITY.
DEATHS IN PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS.
BIRTHS.
DEATHS.
BIRTHS.
DEATHS.
British and Foreigu,...... 63
Males. Females. Total.
Boys.
Girls.
Males. Females. Boys. Girls.
Portuguese, Indians, &c.,....... Males. Females. Non-Residents,
54
24
52
Of the Deaths in Victoria,
Total,..
193
there were in the-
Victoria,
81
93
149
43
624
541
2,268
1,830
Kaulung,
Shaukiwán,
Aberdeen,
1
1
38
14
212
120
:
Sex Unknown,-Chinese.
Italian Convent,
152
421
573
58
47
155
90
Victoria,
6
Kaulung,
3
Asile de la Ste. Enfance,.
257
565
822
17
24
86
83
Total,..
9
Tung Wa Hospital,
881
214
· 1,095
Stanley,
6.
10
29
25
TOTAL,
84
94
149
44
743
636
2,750
2,148
Total Deaths of Chinese,.
4,907
Total,-
1,290
1,200 2,490
GRAND TOTAL.
POPULATION. CENSUS, 1881.
ANNUAL DEATH-RATE PER 1,000.
Estimated Popula-
tion 1886; based on the increases
1882.
1883.
1884.
1885.
1886.
shown in the Census of 1876 and 1881.
Annual
Birth-Rate
Annual
Death-Rate
per 1,000.
per 1,000.
Births, ......1,557
Deaths, .5,100
British and Foreign Community,
Chinese,
9,712
15.75
17.60
16.37
20.90
19.87
10,412
17.09
18.54
150,690
26.78
30.84
27.59
33.10
32.56
171,290
8.05
28.65
Whole Population,
.160,402
26.11
30.04
26.91
32.36
31.79
181,702
8.57
28.07
Registrar General's Office, Hongkong, 31st January, 1887.
J. H. STEWART LOCKART, Acting Registrar General.
273
274
DEATH-RATES in different Groups of Ages for the Year 1886.
BRITISH AND
FOREIGN.
CHINESE..
AGES.
Deaths.
Per cent. of whole.
Deaths.
Per cent. of whole.
Under one year,
22
11.40
1,513
30.84
One year to five,.
26
13.47
705
14.37
Total under five years,.
48
24.87
2,218
45.21
!
From
5 to 10 years,
2
1.04
140
2.85
10 20
11
5.70
225
4.59
12
*2
""
22
29
20 25 25 35
39
35 45
39
45 55
55 65
""
65 75
""
75 85
22
25
"
22
22
11.40
217
4.42
39
20.20*
534
10.88
39
29
15.03
577
11.76
وو
20
10.36
385
7.84
33
91
7
3.63
299
6.09
9
4.66
187
3.81
2.59
86
1.75
85
95
1
0.52
14
29
19
Unknown,
95 and upwards,
1
2
24
49
Total.....
193 ·
100.00
4,907
100.00
Registrar General's Office, Hongkong, 31st January, 1887.
J. H. STEWART LOCKHART, Acting Registrar General.
HONGKONG.
REPORT ON THE BLUE BOOK FOR 1886.
313
No. 22
87.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 22nd April, 1887.
1.-TAXATION.
The following changes were made in 1886 in the taxes of the Colony:-
Piers and Wharves.
(a.) By an Order of the Governor in Council, conveyed in Colonial Secretary's Office Document No. 495 of 1886, a fee of $7 is levied for every Permit to erect a Pier or Wharf in the Villages, other than a Pier or Wharf authorised by Ordinance.
Spirit Licences.
(b.) By Ordinance 21 of 1886, the fees for Spirit Licences were re-adjusted. A scale of the same will be found at page A 2 of the Blue Book.
Coffee Houses and Restaurants.
(c.) By the same Ordinance a fee was also fixed for Coffee Houses and Restaurants.
Stamp Duties.
(d.) The Stamp duties were re-adjusted by Ordinance 16 of 1886. A scale of the same is published at page A 3 of the Blue Book.
Bills of Sale.
C
(e.) By Ordinance 12 of 1886 a scale of fees was fixed for the Registration of Bills of Sale. A schedule of the same is published at page A 13 of the Blue Book.
Vehicles and Chairs.
(f.) By an Order of the Governor in Council of the 22nd October, 1886, made under. Ordinance 5 of 1883, the half-yearly fee for a wheeled Vehicle was raised from $3 to $6 per annum.
Fees.
There were no changes in the personal fees received by the several Officers in the several Depart-
ments.
2.-REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE.
The Revenue, omitting Premia from Land Sales, amounted to $1,367,977.74; and the Expendi- ture, including Extraordinary Works, amounted to $2,020,861.65. Premia from Land Sales realized in 1886, the sum of $34,731.59.
The Revenue and Expenditure for the past five years have been:-
Year.
Revenue.
Premia from Land.
Ordinary Expenditure.
Extraordinary Expenditure.
1882..
.$1,209,517.08
$ 18,330.77
$1,094,804.92
1883,
1,289,448.29
25,718.65
1,162,247.14
$180,052.10
1884,
1,173,071.48
19,695.00
1,254,634.77.
340,763.62
1885,
1,251,889.70
66,658.50
1,146,103.15
475,147.24
1856,
....... 1,367,977.74
34,731.59
1,195,236.81
825,624.84
314
3.-LOCAL REVENUES.
The Chinese inhabitants contributed in 1886, by voluntary assessment among them- selves, to the pay of the District Watchmen,
and received from the Government a grant-in-aid of .......
4.-ASSETS AND LIABILITIES.
$2,863.32 2,000.00
On the 31st December, 1886, the liabilities of the Colony exceeded its assets by $191,512.29. The surplus assets of the preceding four years have been as follows:-
1882, 1883,
•
1884, 1885,
•
.$1,148,664.39
.$1,067,200.52
$729,562.02
$427,692.42
5.-PUBLIC DEBT.
There was no Public Debt in 1886.
6.-MILITARY EXPENDITURE.
The Military Expenditure defrayed by the Colony during the last five years has been as follows:-
1882,
3.0
1883,
1884,
1885, 1886,.
•
7.-GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS.
New Market.
.$109,372.52
$111,962.09
$114,498.78
$117,337.00
$124,561.68
(a.) Houses Nos. 30 to 36 inclusive, Praya Central, were resumed by the Government for build- ing the new Central Market.
Tide-gauge.
(b.) The house for keeping the automatic Tide-gauge which was erected and ready for use in July, 1885, was occupied in October, 1886, upon the arrival of the Tide-gauge and apparatus from England.
Government House.
(c.) Government House was maintained in repair, and the Sanitary arrangements were satisfactory.
8.-PUBLIC WORKS.
Several Public Works were completed during the year, among
(a.) Sanitary works to the extent of over $99,000.
(b.) General repairs to Mountain Lodge.
(c.) A temporary Matshed Police Station at the Peak. (d.) Extension of the Cattle Depôt.
(e.) The Lazaretto on Stone Cutters' Island.
9.-LEGISLATION.
The following Ordinances were passed during the year:--
No.
No.
No.
which may
be mentioned:-
1 of 1886.-An Ordinance to empower the Colonial Treasurer to pay otherwise than to Executors or Administrators small Sums due on account of Pay or Allowances to Persons deceased.
2 of 1886.-An Ordinance for the better Apportionment of Rents and other
Periodical Payments.
3 of 1886.—An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Larceny and Embezzlement. No. 4 of 1886.-An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to the Custody of Infants. No. 5 of 1886.-An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Sales of Reversions. No. 6 of 1886.-An Ordinance to regulate the printing of Newspapers and Books and
the keeping of Printing Presses within the Colony.
No.
No.
No.
7 of 1886.-An Ordinance to repeal the Usury Laws and to fix a legal rate of
intérest.
8 of 1886.-An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Trade Marks.
9 of 1886.-An Ordinance to regulate Religious Ceremonies and Festivals. No. 10 of 1886.-An Ordinance for the relief of Widows and Children of Intestates
where the personal estate is of small value.
}
315
No. 11 of 1886.-An Ordinance to authorise the raising of a Loan not exceeding £200,000. No. 12 of 1886.-An Ordinance to consolidate and amend the Law for preventing Frauds
upon Creditors by Secret Bills of Sale.
No. 13 of 1886.-An Ordnance to amend the Law as to Sales of Land by Public Auction. No. 14 of 1886.-An Ordinance for the Incorporation of the Procurator, in Hongkong,
for the Dominican Missions in the Far East.
No. 15 of 1886.-An Ordinance for the Preservation of the Peace in the Colony. No. 16 of 1886.-An Ordinance for regulating the Stamp Revenue.
No. 17 of 1886. -An Ordinance for amending the Opium Ordinances.
No. 18 of 1886.-An Ordinance to prevent the sale or conveyance on board Ship of any Spirituous or Fermented Liquor, and to prohibit the hovering near
or about Ships of any persons in boats for the purpose of selling or taking on board Ship of such liquor.
No. 19 of 1886.--An Ordinance for the establishment of Reformatory Schools. No. 20 of 1886.-An Ordinance for providing Harbour Regulations.
No. 21 of 1886.-An Ordinance for consolidating the Law respecting the Sale of Liquors. No. 22 of 1886.-An Ordinance for continuing the status of the French Mail Steamers. No. 23 of 1886.-An Ordinance for securing the status of the German Mail Steamers. No. 24 of 1886.-An Ordinance to authorise the Appropriation of $123,798.11 to defray
the Charges of the Year 1885.
No. 25 of 1886.-An Ordinance to apply a sum of $1,094,914 to the Public Service of
the Year 1887.
No. 26 of 1886.-An Ordinance for enabling the Legislative Council and any Committee thereof, to compel the attendance of and to administer Oaths to Witnesses.
No. 27 of 1886.-An Ordinance to enable the Governor to appoint Commissions and to confer certain powers on Commissioners so appointed necessary for conducting Inquiries.
No. 28 of 1886.-An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Wills.
No. 29 of 1886.-An Ordinance relating to Bills of Lading.
No. 30 of 1886.-An Ordinance to amend the Companies Ordinance 1865 to 1886. No. 31 of 1886.-An Ordinance for preserving an authentic record of the Ordinances
of the Colony and for other purposes.
10.-COUNCILS AND ASSEMBLIES.
Executive Council.-The Honourable E. L. O'MALLEY, Attorney General, having departed in March, on leave of absence, his locum tenens The Honourable E. J. ACKROYD succeeded to his seat in the Executive Council.
Legislative Council.-The following appointments were made during the year :-
The Honourable H. G. THOMSETT, R.N. vice The Honourable F. STEWART, the Registrar
General, acting as Colonial Secretary.
The Honourable A. P. MACEWEN, vice the Honourable T. JACKSON, on leave. The Honourable J. BELL-IRVING, vice the Honourable W. KESWICK, on leave. The Honourable C. P. CHATER, vice the Honourable F. D. SASSOON, on leave. Sanitary Board-Mr. STEWART, the Registrar General, having acted as Colonial Secretary during year, his place on the Board was continued to be filled by Mr. LOCKHART, the Acting Registrar
the General.
The following new appointments were made during the year :--
The Honourable A. P. MACEWEN, M.L.C.
PATRICK MANSON Esquire, M.D., LL.D.
N. J. EDE, Esquire, J.P.
Dr. Ho KAI, Barrister at Law.
Board of Examiners.-There was no change in the constitution of the Board during the year. Medical Board.-The Honourable J. BELL-IRVING and Dr. P. MANSON succeeded the Honourable W. KESWICK and the Honourable T. JACKSON, respectively, as Members of the Board.
ment.
11.-CIVIL Establishments.
The Honourable W. H. MARSH, C.M.G., Colonial Secretary, continued to administer the Govern-
The following Officers also continued in their respective acting appointments:—
The Honourable FREDERICK STEWART, Registrar General, as Acting Colonial Secretary. J. H. STEWART LOCKHART, Esq., Assistant Colonial Secretary, as Acting Registrar General. Several changes occurred in various Departments consequent upon Officers going on leave of absence.
:
316
12.-OFFICERS WHO HAVE GIVEN SECURITY FOR THE DISCHARGE OF THEIR DUTIES.
The validity of the sureties of the various Officers was duly enquired into at the end of quarter, and found to be satisfactory.
13. PENSIONS.
The following Officers retired on pension during the year :-
A. DE SOUZA, Apothecary, Lock Hospital.
GEORGE ORLEY, Inspector of Police.
5 Chinese Police Constables.
1 Indian Police Constable.
every
14.-EXPENDITURE OF THE ESTABLISHMENTS.
The amounts paid during the year on account of the Establishments were:-
Payments in Great Britain in Sterling money, Payments in the Colony in Local Currency,.
15.-FOREIGN CONSULS.
.£ 23,444.15.5 $ 656,988.05
No new Consulates were established in the Colony during 1886. Mr. J. J. DE SOUZA, reported that he had ceased to be Consul for Venezuela. No fresh appointment has been made.
16.-POPULATION.
The estimated population on the 31st December, 1886, was as follows:
Males, Females,
which is 10,396 more than the estimated population at the end of 1885.
144,550 56,440
The last census was taken in 1881, the population being then returned as 160,402, of which 115,369 were males, and 45,033 females.
The following is the mean estimated population for the last 5 years:-
Years.
Males.
Females.
Total.
1882,
119,704
46,729
166,433
1883,
.124,768
48,707
173,475
1884,
•
130,560
50,969
181,529
1885,
.137,079
53,515
190,594
1886,
.144,550
56,440
200,990
The births and deaths for the last 5 years were as follows:--
Per 1,000 of mean Population.
Years.
Births.
Deaths.
Births.
Deaths.
1882,
1,545
4,189
9.28
25.17
1883,
.1,509
4,712
8.70
27.16
1884,
+
1,551
4,311
8.54
23 74
1885,
....
1,555
5,192
8.16
27.24
1886,
....1,557
5,100
7.74
25.37
17.-ECCLESIASTICAL ESTABLISHMENTS.
There were no changes in these Establishments, as compared with previous years.
18.-EDUCATION.
The total number of Schools subject to supervision by the Government amounted in 1886, to 90, being the same number as in 1885 and 1884.
The total number of Scholars subject to Government supervision during the last 5 years was as follows:-
Years.
Govt. Schools.
Grant-in-aid.
Total.
1882,
2.114
多
3,068
5.182
1883,
2,080
3,517
5,597
1884,
1,978
3,907
5,885
1885,
1,803
4,041
5,844
1886,
1,893
3,951
5,844
4717
The total expenditure for the last 5 years was as follows:-
1882,
1883,
1884,
1885,
[
1886,
.$33,743.29 35,412.26
36,758.14
36,085.27
43,085.50
317
19.-EXCHANGES, MONEYS, WEIGHTS AND MEasures.
Exchange.
The rate of Exchange on 4 months' Bills on London fell from 3s. 4d. per dollar on the 4th January, 1886 to 3s. 01d. on the 4th August. In the month of December following the rate had risen to 3s. 44d.
Currency.
The law affecting currency has remained unchanged.
Bank Notes.
The Bank Notes in circulation in Hongkong during the last 5 years, as furnished by the Managers of the respective Banks, were as follows:--
Years.
1882,
1883,
1884,
1885,... 1886,.
Average Amount. .$ 4,253,367
5,099,661
4,214,787
4,080,071
4,368,705
Money Circulation.
Specie in Reserve. $ 1,536,666
1,779,166
1,810,833
2,000,833
2,138,333
The approximate amount of Coin put into circulation up to 31st December, 1886, was as follows:-
Hongkong Dollars and half Dollars struck at the Hongkong Mint,......$1,421,487 Hongkong Silver and Copper Subsidiary Coins (20, 10, and 5 cent
pieces; and 1 Cent and Mil pieces),
The importation of Copper Coin has been discontinued.
Weights and Measures.
.$1,983,881
The Weights and Measures in use in the Colony are regulated by Ordinance 8 of 1885.
20.-IMPORTS AND EXPORTS.
There being no Custom House, it is not possible to furnish an account of the Imports and Exports.
21.-SHIPPIng.
Arrivals exclusive of Junks.
The total arrivals, exclusive of Junks, during the year 1886, amounted to 4,251 vessels and 4,571,296 tons, being an excess of 823 vessels and 704,587 tons over the arrivals in 1885.
Junks.
22,971 Junks measuring 1,752,868 tons arrived in the Colony in 1886, as against 23,674 Junks and 1,797,222 tons in 1885, showing a decrease of 703 Junks and 44,354 tons.
Arrivals exclusive of Junks.
The total arrivals exclusive of Junks, for the last 5 years were:-
Years.
1882,.
1883,
1884,.
1885,....
1886,
Number of Vessels.
Tons.
3,437
3.170,843
3,399
3,450,428
3,290
3,479,637
3,428
3,866,709
4,251
4,571,296
יו
318
Junks arrived.
The total arrivals of Junks for the last 5 years were:-
Years.
1882,
1883,
1884,
1885,
1886,
Number of Vessels.
Tons.
25,231
1,805,390
24,258
1,851,239
23,473
1,687,594
23,674
1,797,222
22,971
1,752,868
Immigration and Emigration.
The following will show the number of Chinese who arrived in, and the number who departed from the Colony during the last 5 years:-
Years.
1882,
1883,
1884,
1885,
1886,
Arrived.
Departed.
61,905
78,864
74,722
57,438
73,767
51,247
80,773
57,517
88,704
64,522
22.-AGRICULTURE.
The lands of the Colony being limited and not favourable for agricultural purposes, there is no inducement for this industry here: The produce is quite nominal.
23. MANUFACTURES, &c.
Manufactories.
During the
year
the Glass Works and the Steam Laundry stopped working.
Steam-Launches.
The total number of Steam-Launches built in the Colony in 1886, was 26 with a total tonnage of 1,659 as against 87 with a total of 4,106 in 1885.
24.-GRANTS OF LAND.
The sales of land on lease during the last 5 years were :-
Years.
Total No. of Sales.
Total No. of Acres sold.
A.
R.
P.
1882,
34
41. 3.
51
1883,
30
60. 1.
261
1884,
76
25. 3. 81
1885,
1886,
145.
88
28. 0. 142
82. 2. 31
312
25.-GAOLS AND PRISONERS.
On the 1st January, 1886, there were 573 prisoners in Victoria Gaol; 4,600 were admitted during the year, and 4,541 discharged; the total number of prisoners on the 31st of December, 1886 was 632, of whom 49 were Europeans.
The daily average of prisoners was 674, as against 530 in the previous year.
The number of prisoners admitted into Gaol during the last five years was as follows:-
YEARS.
Men.
No. OF PRISONERS.
TOTAL.
Women.
Juveniles.
DAILY AVERAGE NUMBER IN PRISON.
1882,
3,264
103
131
3,498
622.00
1883,
3,200
137
149
3,486
542.50
1884,
3,670
168
185
4,023
552.00
1885,
3,327
147
136
3,610
530.00
1886,
4,278
173
149
4,600
674,00
.
1882,
1883,
1884,
1885,
1886,
26.-CRIMINAL STATISTICS.
Supreme Court.
The following is a Return of cases tried at the Supreme Court during the last five years:-
319
CHARGES ABANDONED.
POSTPONED.
Number Number
YEARS.
of
of Convicted. Acquitted. Cases. Persons.
Number of Number of
Cases.
Persons.
No. of Cases.
No. of Persons.
124
187
124
38
15
21
91
126
70
26
14
68
101
65
20
8
91
147
103
22
16
2822
1
3
28 (a)
2
2
16
75
107
59
20
16
27 (6)
Total,.................
449
668
421
126
69
114
4
6
१०
Average of 5 years,
89.
133.4
84.
25.1
13.秀
22.
$
Cap
11
Do.
ending 1881,
125.
182.
132.
42.1
6.
7.1
(a) 1 Committed suicide.
(b) 1 Recognisance estreated.
Police Magistrates' Court.
The Cases before the Police Magistrates during the last 5 years, were as follows:--
CASES HOW DISPOSED OF.
Total No. Total No.
YEARS.
of
Cases.
of Prisoners.
Convicted and Punished.
Dis- charged.
Committed Committed
for pending Trial. Orders.
Ordered Punished
to Find Security.
for False
Tes- timony.
Un-
decided.
1882,
7,567
9,402
6,443 2,177
276
1883,
10,653
12,104
8,797 2,747
129
1884,
14,065
15,935
12,836 2,562
103
888888
39
363
17
38
216
6
171
38
281
8
107
1885,
10,281
11,901
8,800 2,446
161
14
456
6
1886,
14,611
16,647
12,923
2,388
159
5
969
35
168
Total,...
57,177
65,989
49,799 12,320
828
134
2,285
72
551
Average of 5 years,
11,435.4
13,197.8
9,959.8 2,464.0 165.6
26.8
457.0
14.4 110.2
Do. ending 1881,
8,138.6
9,728.0
7,069.4 2,121.8 207.4
13.0
255.4
28.6
32.4
Marine Magistrate's Court.
The Cases before the Marine Magistrate's Court during the last 5 years, were as follows:-
DEFENDANTS HOW DISPOSED OF.
YEARS.
Number of Cases.
Number of
Forfei-
ants.
Defend- Impri- soned.
Fined.
ture of
Repri- manded.
Sent back to Duty.
Pay.
To be dis- charged from Ship..
Com-
Dis- missed.
mitted
for Trial.
1882,
1883,
1884,
1885,
1886,
111
སྨཌཟ
76
189
56
28
9
7
39
1
47
2
37
58
13
11
5
1
15
1
12
78
169
85
32
11
1
9
3
28
221
136
47
14
2
21
58
87
43
24
2
1
11
Total,.......
360
724
333
142
45
13
65
5
119
2
Average of last 5 years,
72.0
144.8
66.6
28.4
9.0
2.6
13.0
1.0
23.8
Do. ending 1881,... 141.8
250.0
95.0
58.4
28.6
9.2
14.2
2.0
27.4
:
320
Police.
The Cases brought under the notice of the Police during the last 5 years, were as follows:-
SERIOUS OFFENCES.
MINOR OFFENCES.
YEARS.
Number of
Convicted.
Cases.
Discharged.
Number of Cases.
Convicted.
Discharged.
1882,
2,596
1,405
561
3,728
3,602
846
1883,
2,423
1,178
485
5,265
4,014
1,024
1884, 1885,
•
2,652
1,297
560
7,551
4,743
1,102
2,466
1,298
561
4,309
3,707
757
1886,
2,500
1,389
472
6,336
6,457
672
Total,..
12,637
6,567
2,639
27,189
22,523
4,401
Average of 5 years,
2,527.4
1,313.4
527.8
5,437.8
4,504.6
880.2
Do. ending 1881,
2,270.8
1,345.8
446.6
4,421.8
3,797.4
790.4
27.-HOSPITALS, &C.
Civil Hospital.
The admissions to the Government Civil Hospital during the year were as follows, as compared with, 1885.
1885.
1886.
Police,
495
602
Board of Trade,
100
132
Private paying Patients,
283
381
Government Servants,....
124
144
Police Cases,
238
142
Destitutes,
270
222
1,510
1,623
The total admissions to the Hospital and Deaths during the last five years were as follows:-
Years.
1882,
1883,
....
1884,
1885,
1886,..
Admissions.
1,414
1,436
1,308
1,510.
1,623
Deaths.
68
70
50
76
79
The admissions from the Police Force and the number of Deaths for the past five years were as follows:-
Years.
1882,
1883,
1884,
1885,
1886,
Admissions.
Deaths.
549
8
599
10
486
7
495
9 (a.)
· 602
11 (b.)
The admissions of Europeans were, in 1885, 124, as compared with 138 in 1886; the Chinese were 163, in 1885, as compared with 221 in 1886; and the Indians were 208 in 1885 as compared with 243 in 1886.
(a.) Only 5 of these died in Hospital, 1 died at his own residence, and 3 died whilst on leave. (b.) In Hospital,
}
¿
}
Military Hospital.
The admissions from among the troops during the past 5 years were as follows:-
Years.
1882,...
1883,...
1884,....
1885,...
1886,....
Admissions.
Deaths.
1,019
9
1,105
10
1,097
12
1,090
24 (a.)
1,607
9
Small-Pox Hospital.
The admissions during the past five years were as follows:-
Years.
Admissions.
1882.....
1883,.
1884,
1885,..
1886,.
Inquests.
The Inquests held during the past five years were as follows:-
1882,
1883,.
1884,
1885,.
1886,
nil.
12
7
14
11
113
101
... 82
....100
.120
28.-CHARITABLE AND LITERARY INSTITUTIONS.
The Alice Memorial Hospital was formed during the past year.
29.-RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS.
321
No fresh institution was formed.
An Ordinance (14 of 1886,) was passed during the year for the Incorporation of the Procurator in Hongkong, for the Dominican Missions in the Far East, and properties belonging to the Dominican Missions were transferred to and vested in the said Corporation.
HONGKONG, 22nd April, 1886.
(a.) 12 died of Cholera.
A
ARATHOON SETH. Chief Clerk.
323
No. 23
87.
HONGKONG.
REPORT OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF THE BOTANICAL AND AFFORESTATION DEPARTMENT FOR 1886.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 29th April, 1887.
BOTANICAL AND AFFORESTATION DEPARTMENT,
HONGKONG, 12th February, 1887.
SIR,I have the honour to submit the Annual Report on the Botanical and Afforestation Depart- ment for the year 1886.
2. The Superintendent was absent on leave during seven months of 1885, and from the 1st of January to the 2nd of June of the year under report. Mr. WESTLAND deserves credit for the efforts which he made to maintain the efficiency of the Department while Acting Superintendent.
3. ESTABLISHMENT.-I have much pleasure in recording the good conduct of the Head and Second Foresters during a period of trouble and trial when their characters were put to a test. The Head Forester, Mr. Lo AQWAI, was the first apprentice taken when I instituted the system of Garden Apprentices about twelve years ago. He is now the most valuable Chinese in the department.
4. A Temporary Clerk was employed for six months to assist the Acting Superintendent and the
Permanent Clerk.
5. In consequence of the Dismissal of the Permanent Clerk an examination was held by the Government for the vacant post, Mr. S. MOOTIAN, being the successful candidate, received the appoint-
He has applied himself assiduously to his duties, and has given satisfaction in every way.
ment.
6. As usual there have been a great many Changes in the Staff of gardeners and labourers. These frequent and unavoidable changes are very detrimental to the state of efficiency which I am anxious to see attained. It is impossible to get trained gardeners to fill vacancies as they occur, the men who are engaged are, as a rule, ordinary coolies chosen on account of moderate intelligence, good character and activity, the ordinary and special duties required of them have to be learnt after the men 'come to us. All the operations of the gardens have to be daily and constantly supervised which absorbs nearly the whole time of the Head Gardener. Such fairly good Chinese gardeners as there are can obtain $7 or $8 a month, and the men, of course, are unwilling to come to us for $6 a month, or even for $7 (which are the highest wages paid by this department for gardeners) as they know that here the men have to work harder than in private service where they have very much more of their own way. There is, however, a prospect of some improvement, as provision has been made for an increase in 1887 of a dollar a month each for a few posts in the department, and this cannot but have a good effect.
7. Provision has also been made for the appointment of a Carpenter who will be fully employed. By this arrangement the profits hitherto made by the contractor will be saved, besides securing much greater convenience in always having a carpenter at hand to attend promptly to repairs, and other
work.
t
8. An additional Forest Guard will be employed in 1887. This increase was much needed, as the patrol of the whole island, with the great increase in number and size of trees since forest guards were appointed six years ago, needs correspondingly increased vigilance from the protective staff.
BOTANIC GARDENS.
9. FOUNTAIN TERRACE.-The improvements long projected, and referred to in my Report for 1884, were commenced in the beginning of 1885, by removing from the western end of the terrace trees which were neither very ornamental nor useful, or which were represented adequately by speci- mens of the same species in other parts of the Gardens. They were not in keeping with their position
:
324
and surroundings and the formal arrangement of this popular and beautiful portion of the Gardens. After the removal of the trees, the space they occupied was laid out in beds, the poor soil from which was replaced with better material. These beds were partially planted with roses at the time, and the planting was completed during the past few months. The work of converting the remaining, and larger portion of the ground on the eastern side of the Fountain has been resumed lately, and it will be completed very soon. The arrangement adopted for the improvement of the terrace is designed for two purposes. One is to replace the large trees with plants of a more suitable nature for the character of the place. The other object is to provide a suitable place for concentrating the collection of roses. The roses have hitherto been cultivated in various scattered parts of the Gardens, a method resulting in inconvenience and loss of time in management, as well as exposing the flowers to the cupidity of visitors and professional thieves. For some years flowers in general and roses in particular have received careful and regular attention from flower stealers, who have learnt their business so well that they manage to elude the vigilance both of the watchman, and detectives who have been specially detached for this service. These thieves find a good market in the town for cut flowers, and the very numerous entrances (there are nine) to the gardens, and the low walls which surround the grounds greatly facilitate the ingress and egress without detection of thieves. It is very desirable that some- thing should be done to check flower stealing, but at present there does not seem to be much prospect of the possibility of going much further than the concentration of the roses in one place where they can be more readily seen.
10. On the top of the bank at the north side of the terrace a Collection of Creepers has been planted, and an Iron and Wire Trellies 300 feet long and four feet high has been placed for their support.
11. GREVILLEA AVENUE.-The western end of this walk was a cul de sac which visitors, instead of retracing their steps to escape from when they reached its end, got out of by climbing up the grass bank between it and the small walk above; by this the grass was continually worn off. For the con- venience of visitors, and the improvement of the end of the avenue, a flight of steps has been made up the bank, and some rock work on each side has been constructed and planted with ornamental foliage plants, which will grow in the shady situation.
12. Epiphytal Orchids (Phalaenopsis spp.) have been placed on the trunks of the Grevillea (Silky- Oak) trees which compose the avenue. The suitability of the climate for the cultivation of Phalaenopsis has yet to be proved. So far the orchids, although they were only indifferent specimens of vigour when placed on the trees, seem to afford a promise of success, but the cold of winter, which is not yet over, is the severest trial they have to contend with.
13. THINNING AND REMOVAL OF TREES.-Trees and plants of value and beauty which were in danger of having their symetrical development dangerously interfered with by neighbours which had already fulfilled the purposes for which they were originally planted, and which were afterwards occupying the places of interlopers, have been going through a course of ejection for several months. A couple of foresters have been employed to do this carefully. There are still of some kinds of trees far more individuals than there should be in the Gardens, which must gradually be withdrawn. Until this is done it will be impossible to provide suitably for and to introduce trees of new, beautiful, and interesting forms.
14. PALMS.-A very considerable augmentation of these has taken place. New species have been introduced from various parts of the world, which have raised the number of those in cultivation to one hundred and four. Most of them are planted in permanent positions, but there are others growing in pots and waiting for fit positions to be prepared for them. The limited ground available will not permit the collection to be very much extended, but when the roses are established in the new rosary, the plot at present occupied by the plants in the New Garden will be available for them.
15. This climate has been found suitable for all palms yet introduced with the exception of Maximiliana Martiana and Stevensonia grandifolia, both of which have repeatedly succumbed to cold in the dry season. The former is a native of North Brazil and Guiana, and the latter of the Seychelle Islands. The inability of these two plants to bear with impunity the cold of this climate is interesting when we consider that other plants, including palms, from the same and from equally as hot regions exhibit no ill-effects from the cold.
16. CONIFERS. Not many additions have been made to these. Dacrydium elatum, a very beautiful and graceful conifer has been introduced from Penang, and promises to flourish in Hongkong. Before much is done in the increase of the collection, the ground for their reception must be extended, this, however, is possible when means are available. The Conifers being side by side with the Palms make a very pleasing and interesting assemblage, which arrests the attention of intelligent visitors and illustrates in a comprehensive space the interjunction of the regions in which these two most interesting, beautiful, and useful families of the vegetable kingdom luxuriate.
17. GLENEALY RAVINE. This remains in a slovenly condition, but year after year leaves us in want of means to improve it. The shrubberies require re-arranging and re-planting. The grass lawns are also in very bad order, but it is useless doing anything with these until the string of people who daily walk across them to scoop up water from the nullah can be diverted. This, I trust, will be possible as soon as the necessity for the coolies to come in search of water is removed.
A
૨
325
18. PLANT HOUSES.-The fern collection continues to improve and it shows the great advantage which the house constructed for its accommodation three years ago has been to it, not only in pro- viding the more suitable conditions which were indispensable for successful cultivation, but also in exhibiting the beauties of the plants to greater advantage.
19. The plant house which was built two years ago for other classes of plants, especially foliage plants and orchids, has also been successful in the purpose for which it was designed. A number of orchids which had previously not been successfully cultivated have made better growth, and been preserved in a healthy and vigorous state in consequence of our being able to meet their requirements more completely by the facilities to regulate the shade, shelter, and moisture which the house affords. There is, however, room for great improvement in orchid cultivation, which can only be achieved by the closest and most constant study of the wants of the plants, and unceasing supervision and direction of the workmen in the application of all that plants require.
20. The old structure with a glass roof, the first one of any kind which the Gardens possessed, and which I had built 14 years ago, contains ornamental foliage plants, some orchids, and a few ferns which cannot be grown in this climate without protection from the cold and dry climate of the cool season. These plants it would be utterly impossible to grow without such protection. The house, however, in both size and design meets in a very imperfect manner the needs of the plants; it is in a rotten, tumble-down condition, but I am loth to appropriate much money for repairs to it.
21. This house has fulfilled a good purpose in proving that with such aid very interesting and lovely plants may be grown here, which otherwise it would be impossible to keep alive. Instead of repairing it I hope the Government will be able to grant a sum of money for the Erection of a Glass- house which will be more commodious, and which will be worthy of our justly famed Gardens and Colony. The house could be filled at once with plants, and it would be a source of the greatest. pleasure and benefit to the public.
22. AVIARIES AND ANIMALS' PENS.-In the aviaries several birds have been missing, and others found dead. The assumption is that the mischief has been done by some animal, probably by cats wild or tame. I have not attempted to procure other birds to take the places of the missing ones, because, I hope during the year to be able to put up some new cages which will exclude cats from the larger birds, and rats from the smaller ones. When these cages are up, a few more birds will be obtained.
23. The posts and wire netting which enclose the deer and large birds are much decayed, as well as the little houses inside. All of this I hope likewise, during the year to put in better order, and to improve the general appearance of the pens.
24. ST. IGNATIUS' BEANS (Strychnos Ignatii, Berg.)-I am indebted for specimens of dried leaves and wood of this to Mr. Crow, the Government Analyst, who has exerted himself in obtaining them from the Philippine Islands in order to endeavour to clear up the botanical origin of this important drug. Mr. VIDAL, Inspector-General of Forests at Manila, however, has succeeded in procuring complete specimens necessary for the conclusive determination of the plant. A description and two plates have been inserted as an appendix in the "Revision de Plantas Vasculares Filipinas" which Mr. VIDAL published last year. "Descriptions of the plant were given by LOUREIRO as far back as 1793, and by BLANCO in 1845, but no complete herbarium specimens seem to have been accessible until last year.
25. CHINESE STAR ANISE-In my report for 1883 I mentioned that through the enterprise and kindness of Mr. H. KOPSCH, who was then Commissioner of Customs at Pakhoi, some very small seedlings of what was reputed to be the Chinese Star Anise plant had been obtained. These were very carefully nursed, and they had been watched and well cared for since that time. One of them has
grown into a small tree 10 feet high, and in September last it rewarded us for the care bestowed on it by producing a few flowers, which were sufficient to enable the species to be ascertained. On reference to the works in the Gardens library I found that it was neither Illicium religiosum Sieb. et Zuc. nor I. anis-atum, Linn. The former is the Japanese Star Anise and the latter is the plant which had been supposed to yield Chinese Star Anise. I submitted specimens to Kew Gardens for comparison with the dried plants stored in its magnificent herbarium, and with descriptions of species in the library there. Mr. THISELTON DYER, the Director of the Gardens, in reply informs me that the speci- men sent is referred to Illicium cambodiense of which Kew has specimens from Dr. PIERE besides the latter's figure in "Flore Forestrie de Cochin-Chine," and that it is nearly allied to I. Griffithii. H. f. and T., and I. majus, H. f. and T., two Indian species. This is an important additional step in this very interesting question, but the seedlings having been obtained through natives, the question of the source of Chinese Star Anise cannot be considered quite settled, as we have yet to prove that the plants which we have of Illicium cambodiense are identical with those which really furnish the Anise of commerce. This cannot be satisfactorily decided until the Anise plants are seen in the districts where they grow by a reliable European, or until our plants produce seeds, when the capsules and seeds can be compared with those in trade; if the two then prove to be identical we may feel pretty sure that the origin of Chinese Star Anise has been discovered. The few flowers which were produced last year were all
!
+
..
..
326
wanted for dried specimens, but if the tree blossoms again this year, which there is every reason to expect it will do, the flowers will be left on the tree and fertilized for the production of fruit which will no doubt succeed the flowers.
26. BAMBOO. In my annual report for 1882 I stated that I had brought together in one collec- tion twenty-five kinds of bamboos. These have continued to do well, and some further additions have been made. I hope whenever there is an opportunity to still further increase the collection. The bamboos of China are of great interest and utility and many of them are probably unknown to science. It is impossible to assign them to their true places in systematic botany until flowers are obtained from which a complete and satisfactory study of them can be made. The bamboo flowers at such long intervals that if we trust to travellers being able to furnish the desired flowering specimens the day will be very far distant when the study will have made much progress. One reason why, the different kinds should be cultivated in these Gardens, is that when flowers are produced they can be immediately secured for investigation.
27. A year or two ago Dr. MACGOWAN kindly sent me specimens of the very interesting square stemmed bamboo, but unfortunately they did not survive the passage. When he was passing through the Colony recently Dr. MACGOWAN was good enough to promise to send me a further consignment, I hope, therefore, to have the plant in cultivation shortly.
28. While writing this note on bamboos I have received a letter froin Mr. DYER, the Director of Kew Gardens, in which he says in reference to this very subject:-" The Chinese species of this group are very badly known. There is a kind with large leaves which is used for lining tea chests, but about which nothing else is known. It would be a most important thing to take up vigorously the study of bamboos and procure specimens whenever they are to be met with in flower."
29. TREE TOMATO.—(Cyphomandra betacea).-Vigorous plants which grew from seeds sent me by Mr. MORRIS, the late Director of the Jamaica Botanical Department, produced a crop of fruit during the summer, but heavy rains which occurred at the time so seriously damaged the plants that the fruit did not mature properly. I fear that the saturated condition of the soil during the rainy season will prevent this useful plant being successfully grown in the Colony. In the drier, and more sandy soil of Kowloon, however, it is possible that it may succeed.
30. DILLENIA SPECIOSA.-An Indian tree which was introduced about ten years ago bore a heavy crop of fruit. In India the fruit is used for tarts. That which the tree bore was found to be a fairly good substitute for apples, which it somewhat resembled.
31. VITIS MARTINII (?)-The Cochin-China vine again yielded a very heavy crop of fruit. This has received a good deal of attention in America where it is being experimented with as a new wine producer. For this purpose it has been spoken of favourably. It is possible that in some climates which are unsuitable for the cultivation of the grape-vine this one might be of considerable service, I tried the fruit in tarts, and the flavour was found to be good and palatable, but the large seeds are objectionable; however, it is possible that this drawback might be diminished in time by cultivation. The large leaves of the plant give it a distinguished and ornamental appearance which is an additional recommendation for its finding a place in tropical gardens, if not even in hot-houses of temperate. climates.
32. GOVERNMENT House GroundS.-When these were laid out many years ago they were planted with such things as could be most readily secured, but unfortunately the selection and variety of trees chosen was in consequence not so good as desirable. From time to time a good many objectionable trees have been removed and replaced with others of a more ornamental character, amongst them being a large number of palms and some conifers. These have all done well and greatly improved the appearance of the garden. There is still a large number of trees, notably the very common banians and clumps of bamboos, which mar the effect and effectually stand in the way of further improvements which ought to be made without delay.
33. Plant Sales.-The demand for plants continues to steadily increase. During the year 1918 plants were sold, and they realised $409.35, which is an excess of $137.50 over the sales for 1885. The sales would have been greater if the supply had been equal to the demand. Means are not adequate for the cultivation of certain kinds of plants, but I hope that a re-arrangement of nursery appliances, and an extension of the ground which will be effected this year will place us in a better position to meet public requirements, and a growing taste for plants. A Glass-house fifty feet long is in course of construction, when finished it will be used for propagation and growth of delicate plants which in the early stages of growth require its protection. A new Catalogue of Plants for sale in 1887 has been printed.
ANGE
DISTRIBUTION AND EXCHANGE OF PLANTS AND SEEDS.
34. The total number of plants and trees distributed was 6,771, and of packets and bags of seeds 180 weighing about 40 lbs. Of the trees and plants 1,918 were sold, 2,800 supplied free to the Royal Engineers for planting at the new forts, 800 given to various Police Stations and planted at the Govern- ment Hospital new grounds, and the balance, 1,253, were distributed in exchange.
327
35. Of plants received in exchange the number was 1,326, and of bags, boxes and packets of seeds 186, weighing about 70 lbs.
36. The following is a list of Recipients of plants and seeds :---
Acclimatisation Society, Brisbane." Acting Governor of Fiji.
Armstrong, A. G.
Assistant Superintendent of Forests, Penang.
Awan.
Bamsey, W. S.
Botanic Gardens, Cambridge, England.
2)
""
**
""
،
A
""
""
">
Ceylon. Melbourne.
Mauritius. Natal.
Saharunpur. Sydney. Townsville.
Edge, Rev. J. C.
Faber, Rev. E., Shanghai. Hambling, H. W.
Henry, Rev. B. C., Canton. Humphreys, J. D. Lane, Crawford & Co. Liot, E., Peking. Livesey, J.
H. E. the Governor of Macao. 8 Police Stations.
Metta, S. M.
Patrait, Rev. C. E.
Ribeiro, F. V.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Calcutta.
""
"
>>
>>
Trinidad.
Kew.
>>
23
and Plantations, Adelaide.
Silva, J. M. A. Woodin, E. L. Wotton, W.
Botanical Department, Jamaica.
Coxon, Mrs.
Cundall, C. H., Manila.
37. The following is a list of the names of persons and institutions to whom I am indebted for plants, seeds, and animals:--
Armstrong, J. M.
Armstrong, A. G.
Botanic Gardens, Hobart Town, Tasmania.
=>
>>
""
""
;"
Chee Bee.
>>
Jamaica. Mauritius. Natal. Saharunpur. Townsville.
Trinidad.
Cooper, Wm. M., Ningpo.
Coxon, Mrs.
Cundall, C. H. Manila.
Faber, Rev. E. Shanghai.
Henry, Rev. B. C., Canton. Holmes, A. M.
Italian Convent.
Lammert, Mrs.
Mitchell, Captain.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Calcutta.
"}
Shepherd, Mrs.
Sunda Sing.
Vidal, S., Manila.
2)
Ceylon. Kew.
Walker, H., Borneo.
Woodin, E. L.
38. To the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, I am indebted for two Wardian cases of useful and ornamental plants which I selected at Kew and brought with me when I returned from England in June.
39. A valuable collection of orchids was kindly contributed by Dr. KING, Superintendent of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Calcutta.
40. Senor Don SEBASTION VIDAL Y SOLER, Inspector-General of Forests, Manila, also kindly sent a very valuable collection of Manila orchids.
41. Kew also sent out a number of succulent plants which should have special mention.
42. LOAN PLANTS.-The collection grown specially for loan for decorative purposes at public balls and other entertainments has not been in such good condition as I hoped they would be by this time, but before the next season of festivities I hope that, with more special care devoted to them, they will be more worthy of the purposes for which they are intended. These plants are always lent free, the only charge made being that for their conveyance.
43. GOVERNMENT CIVIL HOSPITAL.--Application was made to this Department to plant with shade and ornamental trees the new Grounds adjacent to the Hospital which had been designed for the recreation of the patients.. A considerable amount of planting was done accordingly, but the prospect is not anticipated of the successful results being achieved which might have been had this Department being placed in a position to deal with the grounds at a much earlier stage in the progress of their formation.
44. REGIMENTAL BAND PERFORMANCES.-Throughout the summer months the Band of the 2nd Northamptonshire Regiment, through the kindness of the Colonel and Officers, entertained the public every Sunday, commencing at 9 o'clock P.M. when the weather permitted, and during the cold weather commencing at 3.30 P.M. It has been the custom to illuminate the Gardens for these performances with Japanese paper lanterns. These illuminations necessitated the erection on Saturdays of material
328
on which to hang the lanterns, and which, in consequence of Sunday being a dies non remained until Monday. These fixtures were thus unsightly for the whole of one day and parts of two others. The lanterns also necessitated the attendance of a number of men. To dispense with the unsightliness of the lantern fixings, the attendance of men on Sundays, the expense of the lantern illuminations, and the circumstance of the lanterns being subject to extinction of their lights by a sudden shower I had the honour to propose the introduction of gas for the purpose of illuminating the two terraces and entrances. The proposition was approved and the necessary vote for carrying out the work was placed at my disposal, when gas was at once laid on and the requisite fixings were made.
45. At the request of the Colonel of the Regiment a Wooden Platform two feet high and 28 feet in diameter was constructed for the use of the Band when it performs in the Gardens. At present there is only one situation where this platform can be placed. It has to be carried and put in position on Saturday, where it remains until Monday. When it is not in use the appearance of the platform to say the least, does not add to the beauty of the terrace. It would be desirable to find another place for it, if this can be done without interfering seriously with the effect of the music, where the platform might be planted off from view.
46. AL FRESCO FÊTE.-In November a large Fête in aid of the Alice Memorial Hospital was held in the Gardens on two nights. Very extensive preparations in the way of mat structures for theatre, fancy work stalls, refreshments, bar, and other things had to be made. I believe there were about 6,000 people admitted to the Gardens on each night. Considerable damage was done to the grass turf, and most of the flower beds which had just been filled for the winter season were so much trampled on that they had to be replanted after the fète was over, some shrubs and plants in pots were also destroyed. The staff for some time after the fête had to be withdrawn from their usual occupations in order to get the Gardens into respectable order again.
47. HORTICULTURAL SHOW.-The Annual (15th) Flower Show was again held in the Gardens. The space required for the exhibits was greater than it previously had been. These shows have been productive of the greatest good in the cultivation of vegetables, in which, as is most desirable; the Chinese take more and more interest, which is a proof that to them the industry is a paying one.
48. It would greatly enhance the value and interest of the shows if exhibitors would have each plant carefully and conspicuously named.
49. A new interest was attached to the exhibition last year by the award of Silver and Bronze medals-called Belilios Medals-and Money Prizes provided for by a handsome Endowment Fund which was generously placed at the disposal of the Committee by Mr. E. R. BELILIOS. It is hoped and expected that these prizes, which will be offered every year, will still further stimulate horticultural enterprize in the Colony.
50. OFFICE. Since my return from leave I have devoted much time to the institution of an improved system of office work and arrangements, which were urgently needed, and of the working up of arrears in both ordinary routine, and correspondence. Improved furniture and conveniences were pressingly necessary, and they have been obtained. By these improvements work is greatly facilitated, and much time is saved.
51. In consequence of the absence of the Superintendent for half the year correspondence, espe- cially foreign, has not been so great. The average number of letters despatched from the office for the year was about 1,500, of which one-third was foreign correspondence.
52. In addition to the general Administration of the Department the Superintendent either writes or drafts all of the Correspondence, directs and supervises the Forest work, and attends to the keeping and progress of the Herbarium with the aid of native assistance only. In both office and herbarium there is room and necessity for more skilful assistance than that which is available, as it is impossible to entirely keep up with the increasing demands of important subjects which are continually pressing
for attention.
53. The time of the Head Gardener is entirely taken up with the management of the native staff within the Botanic and Government House Gardens and the execution of the manifold operations therein, and with the sale of plants.
54. HERBARIUM.-More and more interest is being directed to the Botany of China, and it is a pity that this institution which in many respects is so conveniently situated for research in important and interesting subjects has not the means for extending and more completely fulfilling the work which still remains to be done in bringing to light the botanical treasures of the Chinese Empire. However, I acknowledge with pleasure the aid which the Government has so generously placed at my disposal so far for botanical research. Valuable results have been obtained for some years past, results which have met with the hearty acknowledgment of eminent scientific men in England, and the last year has, although there was so little time for scientific work, had a large share of good results.
55. In this work I have to thank the Rev. B. C. HENRY, of Canton, for a large package of plants which he collected and dried during a journey across the island of Hainan. I named such plants of the collection as were known to me, and submitted the remainder, to Kew Gardens. The result of the investigation there proved the collection to be of unusual interest, and of richness in new species.
329
Careful and intelligent travellers like Mr. HENRY are able to render great and valuable services to botany while on journeys undertaken for other purposes. I should always be glad to receive collec- tions from travellers and also to give such advice and assistance as might be needed in indicating the best methods of collecting and preserving the specimens.
56. To the Rev. E. FABER I am also indebted for a fine collection made in the neighbourhood of Ningpo and Shanghai. These plants are of much interest, but they have not, for want of time, been yet fully examined.
57. Mr. WM. M. COOPER, Her Majesty's Consul at Ningpo, is also entitled to best acknowledg- ments for botanical specimens and information of much interest which has been communicated from time to time, as well as for consignments of seeds of useful plants.
58. Mr. WESTLAND has been successful in the discovery and collection of several new plants on the mainland and islands close to Hongkong, on a few occasions when he was able to get away from his duties in the Gardens.
72
59. The year has seen the commencement of the publication by the Linnean Society of the "Index Flora Sinensis or an Ennumeration of all the known Plants of China. This establishment has been of much service in contributing to Kew Gardens material and information for use in the pro- duction of this very important work.
+
60. By the death at Amoy in June, of the late lamented Dr. HENRY FLETCHER HANCE, China lost not only its most learned and courteous botanist, but also the rich collection of dried plants, and an extensive botanical library. I at one time hoped that part of the herbarium might have been secured for Hongkong, but instead of this being so, the whole Herbarium has been purchased by the Trustees of the British Museum.
61. There is immense work to be yet done in China, not only in the discovery of a vast number of plants which it is certain are yet unknown to science, but also in the introduction and collection of information on plants used in medicine and domestic economy. In the advancement of such work, this Department, with increased facilities, could render still more important services.
62. LIBRARY.-My visit to England afforded a good opportunity to procure a number of books which were required to augment the library of the Department. With the aid which the Government was good enough to place at my disposal this opportunity was not lost.
63. Following is a list of the titles of works, including the periodicals which are taken, that were added during the year:-
A new Species of Cycas, Dyer.
Balanophores, Griffith.
Botanical Magazine for 1885.
Botany of the Voyage of the Herald, Seemann.
Commelynaceæ et Cyrtandrace, C. B. Clarke.
Cryptogamic Plants, Berkeley.
Descriptive aud Analytical Botany, Le Maout and Decaisne.
Dr. Cantors' Plants, Griffith.
Early European Researches into the Flora of China,
Enumeratio Plantarum, China; Bunge. Ferns of British India, Beddome.
Florula Adenensis, Anderson.
Flora British India, Parts XII. and XIII.
""
""
Capensis, Harvey and Sonder.
Cochinchinensis, Loureira.
Japonica, Siebold.
Thunberg.
Java Blume.
of India, Roxburgh.
}}
"3
""
of New Zealand, Hooker.
}}
Vitiensis, Seemann.
Flowers, Fruits and Leaves, Lubbock.
Forest Flora of British Burma, Kurz.
Forests and Moisture, Brown.
Gardeners' Chronicle for 1886.
Gardens of the Sun, Burbidge.
Geographical Distribution of Ferns, Baker.
Geography of Plants, Daubeney.
Hydrology of South Africa, Brown.
[Bretschneider.
Icones Plantarum Sponte, China.
Icones Selectæ Plantarum, Japan; Kaempfer. Illustrations of Natural Orders of Plants, Oliver. Journal of Botany, Vols. IX and XXIII. Latin Dictionary, Smith.
Ling Nam, Henry.
Les Palmiers, de Kerchove. Manual of Botany, Balfour.
"1
of
Bentley.
of Timber Trees, Gamble.
Memoire sur la Famile Melastomacées.
Modern Forest Economy, Brown.
Nomenclature of Japanese Plants, Matsumura.
On Nepenthes, Hooker.
On the Movements of Climbing Plants, Darwin,
Pen Ts'ao Kang Mu.
Peruvian Bark, Markham.
Plantæ Davidiane, Franchet.
Preparation and Use of Rheea Fibre, J. Forbes Waston.
Reboisement in France, Brown.
Remarks on Gnetum, Griffith.
Reports on Insects Injurious to Plants, Whitehead.
Residence Among Chinese, Fortune.
Sea Weeds, Grey.
Select Extra, Tropical Plants, Mueller.
Social Life of Chinese, Doolittle.
Tea Districts. of China, Fortune.
Ternstroemiaceous Plants, Champion.
Text Book of Botany, Sachs.
Wanderings in China, Fortune.
>>
64. The parts which have been published during the year of the "Flora of British India," the "Index Flora Sinensis" (several copies), and some parts of "Icones Plantarum
have been gener- ously presented by Mr. DYER, of Kew Gardens, for which donations I have to sincerely thank him.
65. I have also to acknowledge with thanks, the various Reports of the Indian Forest Depart- ment, which have been generously contributed as they were published.
66. In addition to these I am also indebted for various Annual Reports and Papers of the numerous Indian and Colonial Botanic Gardens with which we are in correspondence.
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67. The Annual Reports of this Department are regularly sent in exchange to all our corres- pondents.
68. The library contains, besides the various reports and papers, 270 volumes.
.
69. In Appendix No. 1 I record a few notes made during a visit to San Ui in the delta of the Canton river on the Palm which is cultivated extensively by the Chinese for the production of leaves for making fans, rain coats for coolies, and for use as thatch, for which it is so extensively employed in South China.
FORESTRY.
70. The area of ground operated on in artificial reproduction was smaller than in some previous years. It was necessary to reduce the operations of 1886 for two reasons, one of which was in conse- quence of the weakening of the controlling staff, and the other was to meet the circumstances of the reduced vote for 1887 which was contemplated in 1885. By providing a small balance from the vote for 1886 I was enabled to devote it to the operations which could be carried out in that year as part of the following season's planting, thus enabling us to accomplish more work during the present year when the staff is again complete and competent to resume the full complement of work.
71. The number of trees planted was nearly up to the average. It was in the rearing of trees in situ that the diminution of area operated on was effected. This operation was entirely suspended. With the exception of a few thousands of trees planted in the neighbourhood of Deep-water Bay the planting was successfully accomplished. The few which were not successful suffered for want of water in a spell of dry weather which succeeded the planting of them.
72. The total number of trees planted was 299,911, of these 293,000 were China Pines, 4,500 Camphor trees, and 1,000 Pride of India trees. The remainder consisted of miscellaneous trees to the number of about 1,200.
73. CAMPHOR TREE.-A large number of trees of this species were planted in 1885, and they appear in fairly good condition. It is probable that this tree will be successful in Hongkong, but it is too early to yet pronounce positively one way or another on the subject. If the conditions do prove suitable for the tree, it will be a valuable acquisition, for besides affording pleasant variety to the sylvan effects of the landscapes, the timber may in time be of value.
74. The early made plantations of China Pines at high altitudes, and in wind-swept patches do not, as I anticipated, succeed very well. However to put the theory to the test a sufficient number of trees were planted in exposed places and at high elevations for experiment. Now the selection of lands for planting is made at comparatively low altitudes.
75. PINUS MASSONIANA. In 1882 I obtained from Japan seeds of this tree which is indigenous to that country, and of a sturdy habit, with which to experiment for cultivation above the height at which the China Pine did well. The seeds were sown in situ at an altitude of from 1,000 to 1,400 feet. The growth of the tree is slower than that of the China Pine, but the trees are very healthy and of robust habit, and they seem well adapted for bearing the adverse conditions for general tree growth which prevail towards the tops of the hills.
76. QUERCUS FISSA.--At the same altitude as the Japanese Pine, young trees of this Hongkong Oak were planted. Some of them, where a little sheltered, have grown very well, and they now measure as much as 9 feet in height and the same in diameter.
77. TRISTANEA CONFERTA. A member of the myrtle family, and native of North Australia, Queensland, and New South Wales. It grows into a large tree and the timber is well spoken of in Australia. The rapid growth of a solitary tree of this which had been introduced from one of the Botanic Gardens of Australia, and planted in our Botanic Garden led me to send to Australia for a supply of seeds. From these 800 trees were raised in 1883 and planted out three years ago. The majority were planted on the north side of the island at about 300 feet altitude, and a number of them at a similar height on the south side of the dividing ridge. All have made remarkable progress, the height of the trees now being as much in many instances as 20 feet. The growth and vigour is greater than that of any tree yet tried, if we except the Gum trees, and of these only a few kinds equal the Tristanea.
78. GUM TREES.-The Eucalyptus trees continue to do well. Of those planted near the Military Sanitarium two years ago a few species have become splendid vigorous trees. These are on the top of a ridge where the soil is naturally loose and deep. At the same time as these trees were planted, a quantity of the same species were planted at not more than 100 to 200 feet above sea-level, those near the Sanitarium are at about 800 feet. Of twelve kinds three succeeded better at the low level than corresponding plants of the same species at the higher level, five succeeded better at the higher level, while four succeeded equally at both places. The result of the experiment is therefore slightly in favour of the higher altitude for Eucalyptus cultivation.
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79. ALEURITES VERNICIA. (Chinese Varnish and Wood-oil-tree.) A plantation of this on Mt. Parker is flourishing and has entirely met my anticipations. The young trees are of an average height of about 2 feet. The situation of the plantation is well sheltered and the soil is good and deep. Seeds, however, which were sown at the same time near Pokfulam in an equally sheltered position, but where the soil was shallow, and in which there was a large mixture of stones, have pro- duced trees very inferior to those on Mt. Parker.
80. SOWING BROADCAST in Situ.-In 1883 and 1885 experiments were made of sowing seeds broadcast amongst grass in various places without any preparation of the soil. In two places the results have been very good, and the young trees are so promising that I intend to adopt the method on a larger scale on lands similar to those where the experiments succeeded. The cost has not yet been accurately ascertained, but it appears so small that I believe double the area of that accomplished by transplanting from nurseries can be operated on in an equally successful manner by the new method. The selection and demarcation of the lands suitable for the system will, however, require to be done carefully by European agency, and this, under the present organization of the staff, seems hardly possible with the great amount of other work which demands all available time.
81. BAMBOOS.-In 1885 an operation, which has not yet been reported, was commenced in the Bowrington Plantation of dividing large clumps of bamboos and transplanting them in one of the divisions with a view to the replacement with the bamboos of the pine trees which now exist there, and of the production of a supply of bamboo canes for the use of the department, and probably for sale. The soil and situation is well adapted for the bamboo, and if the whole of the enclosure be planted with bamboo there should in the course of a few years be an annual revenue from that source.
82. I hope to be able to introduce from the bamboo growing districts to the north-west of Canton, and from other places, many of the valuable kinds of bamboo which are of such inestimable use to the Chinese. These will be planted in the Bowrington Plantation, besides placing one specimen of each kind in the collection within the Botanic Gardens.
83. PHYLLANTHUS EMBLICA.-This is a small shrub, a member of the large order of Euphorbiacea, which bears an edible fruit, often an inch in diameter, of a very acid taste, somewhat resembling a hard smooth, round, green gooseberry, and which is apparently palatable to the natives. It is found growing wild scattered about various places in the Colony, not very high above sea-level.
84. The bark is a valuable tanning material, and is in much request by fishermen, so much so that we have great trouble in conserving the shrubs which exist. I am informed that the fishermen place a higher value on it as a tanning material than even on Mangrove bark.
85. I have procured a large quantity of seeds of this plant, and they will be sown in the nurseries with a view to rearing plants for making plantations with. It may be possible that plantations of it will in time be valuable.
86. CLEARING OFF BRUSHWOOD.--The brushwood in some plantations having become ranker than desirable near roads where it impeded free passage of currents of wind, and where it afforded too much cover, I arranged to have the most advanced plantations cleared of the undergrowth. The plantations through which the Peak road passes have been done.
87. Those near Kennedy Road are begun and the work there and in other plantations will be continued when more important works free men to enable them to do it.
88. The clearance of undergrowth will not only be done free of expense to the Government, but a revenue will be collected from it.
89. SPECIMENS FOR INDIAN AND COLONIAL EXHIBITION.-A collection of specimens of wood of different kinds of Hongkong trees was made and taken with me to England, where they were cut and polished, and afterwards named and set up in the Exhibition.
90. Specimens of a large number of articles made from bamboo and used in domestic economy were afterwards collected by the Acting Superintendent and forwarded to the Exhibition.
91. PLANTING OPERATIONS BY CONTRACTS.-These are done under five different contracts. They are:- 1. Supplying Seeds, 2. Rearing Trees in Nurseries, 3. Making Tree Pits, 4. Planting Trees, and 5 Rearing Trees in Situ.
92. Prices paid vary somewhat one year with another. For instance the price paid for Seeds in 1885 was higher, with one exception, than at any other time. The contract just made is next to the lowest on record. The contract for 1885 for making Tree Pits was higher, than it was in the two previous years, while that just made is fixed at the same price as the previous one. The 1885 contract for Planting Trees while lower than in some previous ones was about fifty per cent. higher than the last contract for the same kind of work. The 1885 contract for Rearing Trees was lower than it was in the two previous years, but not so low as it was three years before, while it was a good deal higher than the one recently made.
93. Last year's tenders threw out the experienced men who had for several years given satisfac- tion in Rearing Trees. A new man entirely
A new man entirely without experience in this work received a contract for all the trees which were wanted. Although the contract price is low, we are paying dearly for the contractor's inexperience as the trees are the most inferior which I remember.
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94. FERN ROCKERIES OUTSIDE THE GARDENS.-These are maintained by the vote for Afforestation. The heaviest costs are caused by artificial waterings throughout the dry months. The dense shade in Gleanealy was the cause of a number of ferns and some other plants continually dying out.
To reinedy this disadvantage of shade I have had some trees and large shrubs removed in order to admit more light. The large trees in the neighbourhood also do much evil by their roots growing up amongst the soil in which the ferns are planted, and thereby very much impoverishing it.
95. Arrangements have been made for extending the rockeries on the eastern side of the road down to St. Paul's College. The construction of the rockery will be gradually carried out, but the planting cannot be completed until plants suitable for the work can be prepared, which will take a little time. For work of this kind the preparation of the plants should be the first consideration to attend to, and the construction of the rockeries should go on and be completed to suit the time when the plants would be ready to put in their places. However, circumstances over which I had no control, but which it was advisable not to allow to slip by without using, rendered the reverse of this method necessary.
96. PROTECTIVE SERVICE.-The Forest Guards made 38 arrests for infringements of what I might call forest laws. Of this number of offenders 26 were sentenced to imprisonment, 5 were fined, 4 were required to find securities, and 3 were dismissed by the Magistrates before whom they appeared. 97. The villagers of Little Hongkong maintain their bad reputation for cutting down and damaging trees, and I fear that the mischief cannot be stopped entirely until some such measures as I recently proposed shall be put into force.
98. Five months ago I reported some extensive destruction of trees which had been going on on Mount Davis systematically for apparently about twelve months. I had information which placed my suspicions on squatters near Belcher's Bay, particularly on rice-husk burners near the telegraph house, as the perpetrators of the mischief. I personally visited these people and remonstrated with them— there was not sufficient evidence for prosecution to be instituted. This was shortly before the squatters about Belcher's Bay were ejected. Since that time the mischief which had been going on has entirely ceased.
99. Although cases of tree and shrub cutting are continually going on the individual cases are, as a rule, of a comparatively trivial nature, yet if the plantations and trees of the island are to be effectively protected it is necessary to apply sharp punishments when offenders are caught, as the difficulty of bringing home punishments to the offenders is very great.
100. Altogether there is an improvement in the results of the efforts of the protective staff, as, with the exception of the cases at Little Hongkong and Mt. Davis, general tree cutting does not occur now as it did formerly.
101. GRASS FIRES.-The advent of the dry season is always accompanied with much anxiety about the plantations. The past year has witnessed fires of unusual number and extent, which have burnt a rather large number of planted as well as naturally produced trees in addition to a very large area of grass only. The fires appear to originate in Chinese Cemeteries from burning incense sticks used in worship at the graves, and from the carelessness and thoughtlessness of pedestrians in throwing down lighted matches as they pass along the roads.
102. I would here take the opportunity of requesting those of the public who have occasion to use matches as they pass along roads or over the hills, to be good enough to extinguish the fire before matches are thrown down, as by so doing they may prevent most serious damages to trees.
103. The subject of presenting barriers to the spread of fire from roads and cemeteries, or of removing inflammable material from adjacent ground, should be taken in hand very socn.
The only practicable method of accomplishing this will entail great care and skilful management of resources, which I trust will be organised in time to meet the next season's dangers.
104. QUARTERS FOR FORESTERS.-We have long suffered the want of inadequate quarters in which to accommodate the majority of the Foresters. It is most important, especially in cases of grass fires occurring, to have a large body of men on the spot, who will be available at once when they are suddenly required to extinguish fires which happen at times out of work hours, or for other purposes.
105. Arrangements are, however, now being made for the accommodation of some more men, for which I have to thank the Surveyor General in kindly meeting the requirements by converting a building, which was not wanted for other purposes, into quarters for a portion of the staff.
106. STORE AND TOOL ROOMS.-The greatest inconvenience is experienced by the very poor accommodation for the safe custody of tools and working material. However, some relief is, I believe, shortly to be experienced by the erection of sheds which are so much needed, and for which, also, Í have to thank the Surveyor General.
107. ASSISTANCE TO ROYAL ENGINEERS.-Very frequent applications have been made by the Royal Engineers' Department for assistance and advice on subjects connected with planting at the Forts and in other places. Aid, as far as possible, has been freely given.
333
108. An application, which received the approval of the Government, was made for this Depart- ment to rear a large quantity,-fifteen to twenty thousand, of Gum trees for planting on lands of the War Department. I procured seeds from Australia, and the young seedlings are all doing well. They will be ready to hand over to the Royal Engineers in about a month or two hence. It was arranged that the Royal Engineers should pay for the costs of material and labour used in rearing the
trees.
109. Appendix No. 2 shows the numbers and kinds of trees planted in the year.
110. In Appendix No. 3 I reproduce a most interesting paper by Dr. Max VON PETTENKOFER on the influence of plants and plantations. This paper will, I think, be perused with much interest at the present time when the sanitation of the Colony is receiving so much attention, Dr. Max Von PETTENKOFER Shows very clearly the great influence which trees exert in sanitary matters, and their general good effects on the well being of mankind. Some doubt is entertained as to the influence of trees on rainfall, but whether trees attract rain or not, no one can doubt but that they regulate the distribution of water, which is a most important effect. Experiments and experience also prove that trees exert a considerable influence on temperature.
111. From my own experience in Hongkong, which has extended over nearly sixteen years, I have found a reduction of several degrees, more particularly at night, of temperature at the Gardens since trees within the Gardens and in plantations around them have been planted and cast a shade over the surface of the ground. The southwest winds of the summer pass over plantations of trees extending from Victoria Gap to the Gardens before they reach the thermometers from which my observations have been made, and I have little doubt but that in travelling over this distance of tree covered land the temperature is either reduced slightly, or that there is not the augmentation of radiated heat from rocks and soil which there was when the hills were destitute of trees.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
CHARLES FORD, Superintendent,
Botanical & Afforestation Department.
Appendix No. 1.
ON THE CHINESE FAN PALM, GINGER, &c.
At the end of last October I availed myself of an opportunity at San Ui in the delta of the Canton river, and situated about 50 miles south-south-west of Canton, of seeing the cultivation of the Fan Palm, and the manufacture of fans from its leaves, as well as seeing something of the plants of the Ginger family which are cultivated by the Chinese.
FAN PALM.
Although foreigners have frequently visited the San Ui district I believe the fan palm had not been botanically examined, and some uncertainty prevailed as to the species of palm to which it belonged. Flowers and fruits, which are important organs needed in botanical determinations, were absent at the time of my visit, but I carefully examined the plants which I saw in cultivation and the examina- tion led me to the undoubted conclusion that the palm is Livistona sinensis, Mart.
The Rev. B. C. HENRY, who has travelled much in the Kwangtung province, says in his very interesting book "Ling-Nam" that the palm district extends about twenty miles from east to west, and ten miles from north to south.
It appears that fan palm cultivation is confined to the San Ui district. In reference to this Mr. HENRY says:-"That the limitation of this industry is a matter of necessity and not of choice is 'proved by attempts made at various times to cultivate the palm in other places, attempts that have "always resulted in failure."
Judging from the appearance of the country in travelling through the delta the reputed failure of the palm when its cultivation has been attempted in other places than the San Ui district could scarcely be attributed to soil, as everywhere this had much the same appearance of richness and constituency. Knowing the immense influence which winds have on the growth and success of not only delicate plants, but also on the hardiest of trees, it is possible that the uninterrupted sweep of certain winds over the flat lands of the delta, combined with some other minor uncongenial circums- tances, may be the cause of failure of the palm for commercial purposes. The San Ui district is protected by lofty hills to the north and westward, which possibly afford the conditions of shelter that the palm requires for the development of perfect leaves suitable for the manufacture of fans.
:
7
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The palm plantations are situated on flat alluvial lands about six to ten feet above the water of the rivers and creeks which run through the delta, and they are intersected with numerous open canals or ditches, four feet wide and more, for carrying off the surplus water in the rainy season, and for retaining it, by means of wooden sluices fixed in the banks which surround the plantations or fields. for purposes of irrigation.
The land is not wholly given up. to palm cultivation, but other crops, as Bananas, Plantains, Papayas, Oranges, Peaches, Ginger, Betel-pepper plant, and various vegetables occupy shares of the ground.
The cultivation of the palm and the manufacture of fans from its leaves is a most important industry. According to Mr. HENRY the manufacture of the fans after the leaves have been cut gives employment to about one hundred firms and from ten to twenty thousand people.
When the plantations are made the young seedlings are placed at various distances apart in order that the different kinds of leaves which are produced from plants growing at close and wider distances asunder may be obtained for the manufacture of fans for which thick or thin, or large or small, leaves are required.
{
The most perfect plantation which I saw was about half a mile in length, and a quarter of a mile in width. It was drained by means of open canals as above described.
The main body of plants were in perfectly straight rows, and they were exactly four feet four inches apart. The stems were from two to four feet high, and they bore about six fully developed and perfect leaves, the petioles (stems) of which were five feet long, and the blade or leaf itself three feet long..
Next to and surrounding the main body of palms was a belt about a hundred feet wide of smaller palms which were growing at only two feet from each other. The stems were but one foot high, they bore the same number of leaves (six) as the larger plants, but unlike them, half the number of leaves were bad. The leaves and their stems were each one foot shorter than those on the larger plants, and the petioles were much more slender.
Outside of this belt and on the extreme margin of the plantation there was a second belt, which however was very narrow.
It consisted of only three rows of palms, the plants being very close tagether, only one foot four inches apart. None of the leaves on this belt appeared good enough for fan manufacture.
The inner belt of plants was intended by reason of thicker planting to serve as a screen to protect the main plantation from the damaging effects of winds, while at the same time it affords finer leaves for smaller fans. The marginal and closely planted belt was placed on the river bank to serve as a fence to keep intruders out of the plantation. For this purpose the palm, while in a young state, and when planted close together, is well adapted, the spines on the ptioles presenting a barrier sufficiently offensive to the bare stockingless and shoeless legs and feet of the Chinese coolie.
The long straight vistas, the regularity of the planting, and the canopy of the verdant leaves overhead produce on the visitor a delightful impression which is worth travelling some distance to experience.
Other plantations contained palms of all ages. Some had trees upwards of a hundred
years old, according to the assertions of natives, but these plantations always contained trees of mixed ages, young plants having been constantly added to take the place of older ones as they died out, or were blown down by winds. The old trees were always of a very stunted appearance, a conditon which would naturally ensue from the continued lopping of their leaves. The stems of these old trees I noticed were not more than half as thick as trees of the same height seen growing in Hongkong where the natural growth of the tree is not restricted by the loss of its leaves. A parasitical fungus or lichen covered these old trunks and gave them the appearance of having been white-washed. The tallest trees seen were only about twelve feet high, but they were said to be upwards of a hundred years old. The leaves on these old trees are larger and stouter than those on young plants, and the stems of the leaves are only about a foot long.
The palm begins to yield leaves suitable for fans when it is about six years old.
The first cutting of leaves takes place early in the year, and the leaves which are somewhat damaged by the winterly winds, and consequently of inferior quality, are used for thatch in the construction of the "matsheds" which are so extensively used for temporary purposes in China.
Leaves for fan making are obtained in April, one, two, or three leaves being taken from each plant, and the process is continued each month until November, when, I was informed, cutting is discontinued for a few months. The leaves are taken from the plantations to a clear space covered with short grass turf. Here each leaf has a thin piece of bamboo placed across the blade where it is joined on the stem. Each end of the bamboo is secured in its place by the loose end of a segment of the leaf being dexterously bound round it. The bamboo prevents the leaf curling up while it is drying. The leaves are then laid out singly on the turf to dry in the sun, and collected and stacked at night. The process is continued daily until the leaves are quite dry, when they are either sent off direct to the town to be made into fans, or they are stacked for a time until the manufacturers are ready to
receive them.
335
The manufactory of the fans is carried on chiefly in the town of San Ui, but there are also some establishments in the country where this is done.
The dried leaves are subjected to a process of blanching by means of sulphur. They are then straightened and rendered shapely by being held and manipulated over a charcoal fire. The operator as he finishes the fans places them one by one on each other making a heap on the floor; the heap is firmly pressed down by the weight of the operator who stands on a board placed on the top of the heap while he is working at succeeding fans. When a heap of twenty or thirty fans have been thus treated they are removed and another series is begun.
The next process is sewing on the bindings at the edge of the fans, this is done by women and children, chiefly at their own homes, and the fans returned when finished to the manufacturer. The more expensive fitting on of horn and bamboo handles is done at Canton.
The portion of the leaf stalk which is not required as a handle for the fan is not wasted. It is composed of a fibrous material that is utilized in making short lengths of rope used as slings to suspend baskets from carrying poles.
Around the stem and bases of the leaf stalks there is a quantity of fibrous substance somewhat resembling coir fibre. This is carefully collected and also used for making ropes.
GINGER.
Some doubt has existed as to whether the Chinese have not one or more kinds of plants in use as ginger that are unknown elsewhere. I have taken steps for collecting together and cultivating all the kinds of plants generally included by the Chinese as ginger with the hope that when in cùltivation they can be studied and observed in such a manner as to secure all possible information in connection with this subject.
While at San Ui I was fortunate in being able to obtain from cultivated plants good flowering specimens. These I dried, and together with specimens of the roots (properly rhizomes) forwarded to the Director of Kew Gardens for a study of them to be made there, where they can be compared with other kinds, or with specimens of the same kind from other places.
The specimens which I procured were, without doubt, Zingiber officinale, the species commonly in cultivation in other parts of the world.
It is, however, possible that some other plant, which is not a true ginger, may be used in making the celebrated Canton preserved ginger, but all the information which I have yet obtained points to the species Zingiber officinale as the only kind which the Chinese use for this
purpose.
The ginger cultivated on the Lo-Fau mountains has a wide reputation amongst the Chinese as being of unusual efficacy in medicine, this superior quality may however be derived merely from pecu- liarity of soil or climate which communicate to the plant exceptional properties.
GLYCOSMIS CITRIFOLIA.
Near the town Kom Chuk I observed growing rather abundantly amongst the mulberry planta- tions as shrub which had been cut down (coppiced) a good deal. On approaching nearer I found it to be Glycosmis citrifolia, a shrub indigenous in Hongkong. An inquiry as to the purpose for which it was used elicited the information that the leaves are pounded, made into cakes, and then used for making a strong kind of wine known as Chow-peng-sze. I regretted not being able to successfully pursue inquiries, and gather further information on a subject of some interest. Possibly some traveller will be able to supplement the knowledge with further particulars.
The shrub is a species of the natural order Aurantiacia to which the orange belongs. It bears a small, sweet, jelly-like, edible fruit about the size of a large pea.
ORANGES.
I inspected plantations of the orange which Mr. HENRY mentions in "Ling-Nam." It is known by the name Tim Kom. No orange which I have tasted in China equals it for sweetness, it is also very juicy and of a fine flavour Amongst the Foreign community I believe this orange is not so well known as it deserves to be. It has a high market value, the price in Hongkong being thirteen cents per pound.
While alluding to oranges I may mention that I was recently favoured with an opportunity of tasting an orange from the North, known as the Quinine Orange. This has a distinct bitter taste resembling quinine.
Mr. WM. COOPER, Her Majesty's Consul at Ningpo also kindly forwarded me a Chinese lemon of large size, but of shape nearly round, quite unlike the European lemon.
CHARLES FORD, ' Superintendent, Botanical & Afforestation Department.
i
336
Appendix No. 2.
TABLE OF KINDS AND QUANTITIES OF TREES PLANTED.
Bischoffia javanica,
Bermuda Juniper (Juniperus bermudiana),................ Bamboos,...
Candle-berry-nut Trees (Aleurites triloba); Cryptomeria japonica,...
Cork-oak (Quercus),
282
28
40
80
40
22
Camphor Trees (Cinnamomom camphora), Divi Divi (Cæsalpinia coriarea),
4,580
52
.....
Pride of India (Melia Azederach),
Pine Trees (Pinus sinensis),
Litsæa sp.,
Moreton Bay Pine (Araucaria Cunninghamii),
Privet (Ligustrum sinensis),.....
Rose-apple Trees (Jambosa vulgaris),
86
30
1,070
300
293,039
262
299,911
Appendix No. 3.
CHARLES FORD, Superintendent,
Botanical & Afforestation Department.
EXTRACT FROM THE INFLUENCE OF PLANTS" BY DR. MAX
VON PETTENKOFER.
F
"I consider the impression which plants and plantations make upon our minds and senses to be of hygienic value; further, their influence upon the conformation of the soil with which health is in many respects connected; and finally, their influence upon other qualities of the air, than carbonic acid, oxygen, and ozone: among these may be mentioned in passing, shade in summer, and decrease of wind and dust.”
"It is an old observation, needing no demonstration, that the cheerful and happy man lives not only an easier, but on the average, a more healthy life than the depressed and morose man. Medical men, and especially 'mad doctors' could tell us much of the great value of a certain relative proportion of pleasureable and painful impressions upon health, and how frequently some unfortunate position, an absence of pleasure, or too much of painful impression" is the cause of serious illness..
"I consider flowers in a room for all to whom they give pleasure, to be one of the enjoyments of life, like condiments in food. It is certainly one of the most harmless and refined. We cannot livė on pleasure alone: but, to those who have something to put up with in life, their beloved flowers per- form good service."
The same may be said of private gardens and public grounds, and of the artistic perfecting of them. The more tastefully laid out, the better the effect. Though tastes differ there is a general standard of taste which lasts for several generations though it varies from time to time, and is subject to fashion. As their object is to give pleasure, public grounds should accord with the taste of the age, or aim at cultivating it. This is a justification for going to some expense for aesthetic ends."
Modern hygiene has observed that certain variations in the moisture of the soil have a great influence on the origin and spread of certain epidemic diseases, as for instance cholera and typhoid fever-that these diseases do not become epidemic when the moisture in the soil is not above or below a certain level, and has remained so for a time. These variations can be measured with greater accuracy by the ground-water of the soil than by the rain-fall, because in the latter case we have to determine how much water penetrates the ground, how much runs off the surface, and how much evaporates at The amount of moisture in the soil of a forest is subject to considerably less variation than that outside. EBERMAYER has deduced the following result from his meteorological observations on forestry: 'If from the soil of an open space 100 parts of water evaporate, then from the soil of a forest free from underwood 38 parts would evaporate, and from a soil covered with underwood only 15 parts would evaporate. This simple fact explains clearly why the cutting down of wood over tracts of country is always followed by the drying up of wells and springs."
once.
>
"In India, the home of cholera, much importance has been attached in recent times to plantations as preventitives of it, it has been always observed that the villages in wooded districts suffer less than those in treeless plains. Many instances of this are given in the reports of Dr. BRYDEN, President of the Statistical Office in Calcutta, and Dr. MURRAY, Inspector of Hospitals. For instance BRYDEN compares the district of the Mahanadda, one of the Northern tributaries of the Ganges, the almost tree- less district of Rajpoor, with the forest district of Sambalpoor. It is stated that in the villages, in the
337
plain of Rajpoor, sixty or seventy per cent of the inhabitants are sometimes swept away by cholera in three or four days, while the wooded district of Sambalpoor is often free from it, or it is much less severe. The district commissioner, who had to make a tour in the district on account of the occurrence of cholera, reports among other things as follows:-
"The road to Sambalpoor runs for sixty or seventy miles through the forest, which round Petorah and Jenkfluss is very dense. Now it is a remarkable fact, but it is a fact, nevertheless, that on this route, traversed daily by hundreds of travellers, vehicles, and baggage-trains, the cholera rarely appears in this extent of sixty miles, and when it does appear it is in mild form; but when we come to the road from Arang, westward to Chicholee Bunglalou, which runs for about ninety miles through a barren, treeless plain, we find the cholera every year in its more severe form, the dead and dying lying by the wayside, and trains of vehicles half of whose conductors are dead.'”
"In the same report Dr. BRYDEN continues:-
"I will mention one other fact as a result of observations, namely, that places surrounded by those vast and splendid groves which are occasionally seen lying in low and probably marshy situations surrounded by hills, and which, from the mass of decaying vegetation, are very subject to fever in September, October, and November, are seldom visited by Cholera, and if it occurs there are but few deaths, while places on high ground, or in what are called fine, airy situations, free from trees and without hills near, so that they are thoroughly ventilated suffer very much from cholera.'”
MURRAY gives a number of instances showing the influence of trees on the spread of cholera, one of these may find a place here."
"The fact is generally believed and not long ago the medical officer of Jatisgar in central India, offered a striking proof of it. During the wide-spread epidemic of cholera in Allahabad, in 1859, those parts of the garrison whose barracks had the advantage of having trees near them enjoyed an indisputable exemption, and precisely in proportion to the thickness and nearness of the shelter. Thus the European Cavalry in the Wellington Barracks, which stand betwen four rows of mango trees, but are yet to a certain extent open, suffered much less than the Fourth European Regiment, whose quarters were on a hill exposed to the full force of the wind; while the Bengal Horse Artillery, who were in a thicket of mango trees, had not a single case of sickness; and the exemption cannot be regarded as accidental, as the next year the comparative immunity was precisely the same."
"We need not however go to India to observe similar instances of the influence of a certain degree of moisture in the soil favoured by woods or other conditions; we can find them much nearer home. In the cholera epidemic of 1854, in Bavaria, it was generally observed that the places in the moors were saved, in spite of the otherwise bad condition of the inhabitants. The great plain of the Danube from Newburg to Injolstadt was surrounded by places where it was epidemic, while in the plain itself there were but a few scattered cases. The same thing has been demonstrated by Reinhard, President of the Saxon Medical College. Cholera has visited Saxony eight times since 1836, and it spared the northerly district between Plusse and Spree, where ague is endemic.”
every time
"Even if these deductions must be accepted with caution from an etliological point of view, still, on the whole, they indisputably tell in favour of trees and of woods."
"Surface vegetation has also other advantages, besides its use in regulating the moisture in the soil; it purifies it from the drainage of human habitatious whereby it is contaminated and impregnated. If this refuse matter remains in soil destitute of growing vegetation, further decomposition sets in, and other processes are induced, not always of a salubrious nature, but often deleterious the products of which reach us by means of air and water and may penetrate into our houses. A great deal of heat is neutralized by evaporation from the leaves, another portion by the decomposition of carbonic acid, just so much as is set free when we burn the wood and other organic combinations into the composition of which it enters. The heat produced by burning wood in a stove is derived from the sun; it is but the captured rays of the sun again set free by combustion. We learn from EBEMAYER'S work that the temperature of the trees in a forest, and even in the tops of them, is always lower than the air in
the forest.
"}
"Besides this, shade in the open air always causes a certain draught which acts as a kind of fan. All must have noticed when walking in an oppressive heat, when the air seems still as death, that a refreshing breeze arises as soon as a cloud casts a shade."
"The shade of a single tree, therefore, cools not only by intercepting the sun's rays, but also by the effect of gentle fanning. The shelter of a thick wood, however, is much more agreeable than that of a single tree. The air in a wood is cooler than that of an open space exposed to the sun. The air from outside is drawn into the wood, is cooled by it, and cools us again. And it is not only the air that cools us, but the trees themselves. Observation has shown that the trunks of trees in a wood breast-high, even at the hottest time of day, are 5° Centigrade cooler than the air. We therefore lose considerable heat by radiation to these cooler objects, and can cool ourselves more easily at a tempe- rature of 25° Centigrade in a wood than at a much lower temperature in an open space.
CHARLES FORD,
Superintendent,
Botanical and Afforestation Department.
}
395
No. 27
87.
HONGKONG.
RECLAMATION OF, AND BUILDING AT CAUSEWAY BAY.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 13th May, 1887.
"
7
P
•
.
No. 81.
SIR,
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT,
HONGKONG, 25th April, 1887.
The congestion of the population especially in the central portions of the city is now attaining proportions that cannot but cause anxiety to those responsible for the maintenance of the Public Health.
2. The evil becomes aggravated from year to year with the increase of fresli settlers from the mainland who are said to arrive here at the rate of 600 every month or over 7,000 every year.
3. Aware of the dangers of overcrowding, the Government has included in the Public Health Bill certain provisions against this evil.
4. But it will be of little avail legislating against overcrowding unless in anticipation of such legislation, opportunity is afforded to builders of acquiring sites for the erection of new houses for the reception of the overflow of people to be turned out of the central districts under the provisions of the new Act.
5. Quite recently, the Sanitary Board urged attention to the necessity of making opportune provision for the erection of more houses in view of the expressed intention of the Executive Government to reduce the present dangerously over- crowded condition of native tenements.
6. No time should therefore be lost in dealing with this question, and in this conception, I beg to submit in the accompanying plan a project for reclamation and house building in the Causeway Bay District by which 27 acres of ground will be rendered available for the erection of 1,200 Chinese tenements.
The pro- ject also provides for the connection of that district with the city by means of a tramway from Whitfield Station to a terminus at the Blue Buildings, Wántsai.
7. I should state at the outset that this scheme does not contemplate throwing all this land on the market at the same time, but in sections, a fresh section being sent to the hammer as soon as the portions previously sold are in process of being covered with new houses.
8. The cost of these works and reclamations may be defrayed not from the ordinary Public Revenue of the Colony, but from the premiums realized by the periodical sale of vacant Crown lands. For the purpose of creating a Fund from this source I would not however force or stimulate the sale of Crown lands but merely meet-as it arises--the normal demand for building sites in any portion of the island or Kowloon.
*
9. The accompanying plan of the Causeway Bay District shows, tinted red, the area already reclaimed from the sea, and tinted green a further area which it is now recommended should be reclaimed in order to secure the salubrity of the district.
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
* Not printed.
&c.,
&c.
396
10. The portion tinted green is at present during the hours of low water, an objectionable foreshore extending out over 300 feet. The original reclamation project of 1883, had comprised this foreshore in the area to be filled in, but the great cost involved ultimately led to the curtailment of the project and only the land shewn, tinted red, has been filled in.
11. It is also recommended that the area already reclaimed (coloured red) be raised in the form of a slope to an additional height averaging three feet through- out, with a view to keeping the proposed new sewers and house drains well above sea-level and in order to give them a gradient or fall towards the sea, sufficient to impart due velocity to the flow of sewage along the main drainage arteries shewn in blue lines on the plan.
12. The sewerage of the new district could not be emptied into Causeway Bay for in this circumscribed corner of the harbour there are no tidal currents capable of carrying the noxious effluents out to sea. The contents of all main drains must therefore be gathered into one intercepting sewer and taken along the Shaukiwán Road in the direction of North Point and there emptied into the tidal current.
13. In order to reduce the size and cost of these main sewers and of the general intercepting sewer, it is not intended to lead any storm waters into them. Rain drainage may be allowed to escape into Causeway Bay.
14. It is doubtful whether Causeway Bay lots would be taken up, in any great number, unless this distant suburb is brought into cheap and speedy com- munication with the City. To meet the contingency a tramway is proposed as essential to the success of the scheme. I would have advocated the laying of a tramway from Whitfield Station to Kennedy town had the junction of the Praya along the water frontage of the Military Cantonments and Naval Yard been an accomplished fact, but in view of the uncertainty of this work being carried out, at once, I limit myself for the present to the recommendation of a line from Whitfield Station along the Praya to a terminal point at the corner of the Blue Buildings. When the Praya junction is completed the tramway can be extended to Kennedy
town.
15. The proposed new township will be intersected by streets sixty feet wide and the Chinese system of back to back houses will be rendered impossible by the interposition of ten feet lanes between each row of houses. The allotments will be 15 feet wide by 60 feet deep, these being the favourite dimensions of the native house builder. Each allotment will hold therefore only one house. Assessed for premium at the prices obtained at the recent auction sale of similar lots adjoining Whitfield Station, the 1,200 lots may realize an average of 20 cents a square foot or $180 per lot, and the total to be derived from premiums, will therefore be $216,000.
16. Based on the Crown rents of the Whitfield Station lots, i.e. $125 per quarter acre, the 1,200 allotments representing as before stated an area of 27 acres will bring in to the Colonial Treasury an annual revenue of $13,750.
17. It is estimated that the rates and taxes on the 1,200 new houses will come to about $20,625 bringing the total annual receipts up to $34,375. The purchase money i.e. $216,000 together with the first year's annual rents and taxes would therefore amount in all to $250,375.
18. The cost of filling in that portion of the ground which is shewn, tinted green, on the plan will be $70,000. The cost of a sea-wall along the sea-frontage is estimated at $35,000 while the cost of raising by another three feet the present reclamation shown tinted red will be $20,000. The main sewers and intercepting sewer are estimated at $90,000 and the formation of the new streets at $20,000. The total outlay on reclamation and sewerage works will thus amount to $235,000. In general terms and allowing a wide margin for unforeseen contingencies it may be assumed that the amount to be received in premiums when all the lots are sold, plus the first year's annual Crown rents and the house rates leviable will balance the prime cost of the works.
19. With regard to the tramway from Whitfield Station to the Blue Buildings I hope shortly to submit estimates of cost of construction, maintenance and working. It is open to doubt however whether the cost of the tramway could equitably be debited to the reclamation project inasmuch as the line would be a municipal improvement of benefit to the entire general public and not of benefit solely to Causeway Bay.
397
20. But even if the tramway is not chargeable to the Causeway Bay project, I am none the less of opinion that its construction might legitimately be defrayed from the Fund to be derived from land sales, since its realization would tend more than anything to improve the value of all private leasehold estate and of all Crown lands from Shaukiwán to Wántsai. If well and substantially built and managed by competent hands, the tramway should not only pay for itself but should yield a moderate profit to Government while to the working classes, provided the fares are kept at the lowest standard, it will prove an inestimable boon.
21. It is not impossible His Excellency the Acting Governor may be told that nobody will build at Causeway Bay, and that if landlords do build in that locality, no tenants will be found to occupy the new houses, notwithstanding the advantages of a tramway. There might be some ground for these fears if it were the intention of Government to take no steps to abate overcrowding, but as the Government will not continue an unmoved spectator of the dangerous massing of the people in the houses of the Central districts of Victoria and as a large number of crowded tenements in these districts will each in its turn be compelled by law to disgorge a large proportion of its inmates, there will be no alternative left for the people but to build more habitations. There are no sites for houses in the centre of the town, and it follows therefore that the inhabitants must gravitate towards the suburbs.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
J. M. PRICE,
Surveyor General.
1.
No.
187
HONGKONG.
CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING CHILD ADOPTION AND DOMESTIC SERVICE AMONG CHINESE.
Presented to the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 7th January, 1887.
(1)
Governor Sir G. F. Bowen, G.C.M.G., to Secretary of State for the Colonies.
(Copy.) No. 79.
MY LORD,
GOVERNMENT HOUSE,
HONGKONG, 22nd May, 1883.
I find that no reply has hitherto been sent to the despatch from your predecessor, Lord KIMBERLEY, No. 40,* of the 18th March, 1882, respecting alleged slavery among the Chinese at Hongkong.
2. It appears that this despatch was referred by the Administrator to Mr. RUSSELL, then Registrar General, but since created a Judge of the Supreme Court.
3. I have written to Mr. RUSSELL that I shall consider as of great value the opinion on this difficult, delicate and much controverted question of a gentleman of his ability and great experience, though he has ceased to be Registrar General. I have asked him moreover, to place himself in communication with the present Registrar General, Mr. STEWART.
4. So soon as I shall receive the reports of the above-mentioned gentlemen, I shall address Your Lordship again on this question.
The Right Honourable
THE EARL OF DERBY,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
(C. S. O. 1814)
883
(2)
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
G. F. BOWEN.
REPORT ON CHILD ADOPTION AND DOMESTIC SERVICE AMONG
HONGKONG CHINESE.
HONGKONG, 18th July, 1886.
In the correspondence respecting the alleged "Existence of Chinese Slavery in Hongkong," presented to both Houses of Parliament, by command of Her Majesty, in March, 1882, Lord KIMBERLEY, after referring to certain safeguards for the protection of children in Hongkong, in a despatch to the Governor, states:- "But I am checked in the consideration of these and other propositions by my "uncertainty as to the facts of the system of child adoption and domestic service as it prevails in Hongkong, which are represented with the greatest diversity by "those who approve and disapprove of the system. I desire therefore that you will
<<
* See Parliamentary Blue Book [C. 3185] of 1882.
188
2
"institute a full and trustworthy inquiry into the facts, forwarding to me, as soon "as it can be completed, a report thereon, and I request that in connexion with "such report the question may be considered whether any and if so what measures "should be taken to remove any of the evils that may be brought to light by the "inquiry." (Command paper 3185 of 1882, page 123).
""
In illustration of the diversity of opinion which prevails as to the facts, Lord KIMBERLEY points out that "Sir JOHN SMALE never heard of a case of purchase for adoption in the Colony," whilst Dr. EITEL spoke of the demand for young children under the system of adoption and domestic service as being large at an average price of $40, and that Mr. FRANCIS stated "that boys are bought and sold in Hongkong for adoption."
In reporting upon the facts of child adoption and domestic service it may be convenient to group what observation I have to make under four heads, as follow :-
Where the parents or guardians volun- tarily part with their children.
i. Child adoption as existing among Chinese at Hongkong, male
and female; abuses connected therewith.
ii. Domestic service amongst Chinese living in Hongkong, con-
fined to females only; abuses connected therewith.
iii. Kidnapping; as partly chargeable to the Chinese system of
adoption or service.
iv. Suggestions for the prevention of abuses growing out of child
adoption and domestic service.
I.
77
Adoption of male children in China is founded on the necessity of having a male representative to perform sacrificial ancestral rites. So much is it so that if a men dies without male representatives as sons, natural or adopted, a son may be adopted for him by his people. The origin and reason of the requirement will be found fully described in a Chinese petition addressed to the Governor and in Dr. EITEL'S learned paper on "Domestic Servitude in relation to Slavery.' These documents are published at pages 44-57 of the Blue-book already referred to. The rule among the Cantonese when adoption is decided upon is to seek a nearly related male agnate of a generation younger, generally a nephew. The father as a rule will give any of his boys but the eldest. The second son is the one usually selected. The principal members of the clan are notified of the fact of adoption. Among near relatives no money appears to pass and no "deed of sale" or "deed of gift is made. If, however, the relations are very poor, a small sum of money may be given to the parents, called "compensation money for the expense of rearing the child," and in that case, a "presentation card" or paper reciting the transaction is given to the adopting parents, but there is no "deed of sale," properly so-called, as in the case of strangers, as will presently appear.
If the head of the family desires to adopt a male child as a son and is unable to obtain a relation, he is apparently at liberty to adopt a stranger-in-blood, for whom, however, he almost invariably pays a price. The stranger may be of the same surname, although of a different clan-if so all the better. A "deed of sale" is almost invariably executed and given to the new parents. The surname and name are changed and the clan is notified of the fact. A stranger thus adopted be- comes entitled to the same rights and privileges as one adopted from among
relatives.
Adopted sons, whether relatives or strangers, have equal rights with natural- born sons, and if after adoption a son is born to the adopting parents the adopted son loses none of his rights, but shares equally in the patrimony with the natural- born son. Sons take equal shares, whether by the lawful wife or by a concubine.
The Fokienese, Hakka and Chin Chew people in the Colony are apparently not so tied down to seeking male relations for adoption as are the Cantonese.
:
€
189
3
Adoption of female children as daughters.
The system is conducted in the same manner as the adoption of males; but comparatively few female children are adopted. They have equal rights with natural born daughters. They are provided with a dowry when married, but, like natural-born daughters, they have no other claim on the inheritance. The daughter takes nothing by an intestacy. Every woman is supposed to get married; on doing so she "leaves the family" and is absolutely in manu of the husband, even to a power of sale.
""
It is to be feared, however, that a very considerable number of female children are adopted from amongst strangers, (and therefore with a money payment,) with the intent that they should ultimately become prostitutes. These children are called "pocket-daughters." Their so-called mothers are called "pocket-mothers." They are taught Chinese music, and are regularly trained for the profession of courtezans. At an early age they are the victims of debauchees, who "deflower them in sly brothels," paying the "pocket-mother" a large price, and the girl is thus launched on a brothel career. These young girls are said to be brought from Canton or Macao at the age of 13 or 14 years, "and are deflowered according to bargain and as a regular matter of business for large sums of money, which go to "their owners, frequently it would appear their own parents. The regular earnings "of the girls go to the same quarter, and the unfortunate creatures obviously form "subjects of speculation to regular traders in this kind of business who reside "beyond our jurisdiction." (See Hongkong Contagious Diseases' Commission, 1879, page 45).
66
CC
II.
Domestic Service amongst Chinese.
"}
The most careful inquiry shews that no male children are bought and sold here as slaves or servants, and confirms the statements in the Blue-book that Boys are sold to be sons not slaves" and "that no such thing as a slave boy exists in Hongkong." It might too with truth have been added "nor in Canton." By Chinese custom and usage, for the purpose of domestic service Chinese female children are often pledged with a power of redemption, but more frequently purchased out and out from poor parents. The price varies considerably. I have known of a young child being bought at Macao for a dollar. A "deed of sale," or a "deed of gift" as it is more frequently called, is given to the purchaser. This "deed of gift of course is a mere euphemism. It is a bill of sale, and purports to sell and convey a title with a warranty. Money is given as the consideration for the control of the services of the child, iu most cases for ever without redemption." The purchaser has a power of re-sale, although some dispute it. It is certainly exercised amongst the Chinese in the mainland, and occasionally in Hongkong. Their books have a common form of re-sale. (See appendix for a number of forms).
...
It is not within the scope of this Memorandum to discuss the question how far children of poor chinese benefit by the existence of their custom of sale, or how far infanticide is checked thereby. That has been done elsewhere, and was the subject of debate in the House of Lords. (Hansard, vol. 253, page 398, of 21st June, 1880). But it is certain that the parents give for money and by deed or other written instrument a complete power over their child, and purport to divest them- selves of all control over its future. They make certain stipulations such as that when the girl grows up she shall be married. The Chinese Officials recognise these bargains of pledge and sale as binding, even, it appears, where the child has been previously stolen provided the purchaser has complied with the custom in getting a deed with the go-between as witness and agent. They would restore a runaway purchased servant to the vendee, as will be seen from the correspondence enclosed in a despatch to the Secretary of State in the time of Sir RICHARD MACDONNELL. (See 337 of 29th July, 1867). In that case, a girl was the purchased servant of a Mandarin. She was nearly 19 years. She came to Hongkong because she had been beaten, and the British Consul at the request of the Mandarins asked that she might be sent back, as the master had a property" in her. The Governor very emphatically refused to recognise any such subject of property in this Colony, and said that as the girl was guilty of no crime, and wished to stay in Hongkong, he would not give her up.
CC
i
L
:
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The Canton authorities also demanded in 1869 the rendition of a girl 21 years of age and her father on the ground that the girl's father and grand-mother had betrothed her in infancy. The girl was born in Hongkong. The father-a Chinese domiciled here and the daughter refused to carry out the engagement, because the intended husband was reputed to be a leper. The Canton authorities claimed her as "belonging" to the intended husband and his family. It is needless to say that the girl was allowed to exercise her own free will (see Governor MACDONNELL'S despatches to Secretary of State 790 of 1869 and 855 of 1870). The Governor very clearly laid down the principles which Englishmen maintain as to "holding property in persons " and what would be the conduct of the Government of Hongkong vis-à-vis China in such cases; and no chance has ever since been lost of bringing out the difference between our law and theirs, and of pointing out the uncompromising requirements of the English race on questions of personal liberty. The obligations cast by Chinese custom upon the purchasers of servants are only enforced by social sanction. They do not seem to be enforced by any positive law. It is said that good masters and good mistresses never sell their purchased servants as prostitutes nor sell them at all unless when compelled to do so by poverty, and then they sell them to good people. This would seem to admit the power to sell as prostitutes. By Ordinance No. 2 of 1875 any person who purchases or sells in the Colony for prostitution any woman or female child or brings into the Colony any woman or female child purchased or sold out of the Colony for the purposes of prostitution, or harbours or receives them knowing them to have been purchased or sold for such purpose, is liable to two years' hard labour, and on a second conviction the offender, if a male, may be flogged. Indeed, the provisions of this Ordinance for the protection of women and children are of the strictest nature. was introduced in 1873 and amended in its present form (see Appendix L).
It
In Hongkong, transactions of pawning and sale of girls as domestic servants have taken place both before and since British Government was established here, and no doubt will take place to some extent in spite of all our efforts; for the system is a recognised institution among some 250 millions of people, and as long as the Colony, part of which is on the mainland of China, is peopled by Chinese, cases of buying and selling girls for purposes of domestic service, with some of the abuses inherent in the system, must necessarily occur. It is obviously impossible to get the Chinese public mind to see any great wrong in an institution which their books shew to have existed almost from time immemorial. But it will be seen from the Blue- book already cited that the respectable Chinese here are most anxious to put down sales for prostitution. They think, however, that the advantages of their system of adoption and child service much outweigh the evils attendant on it, and I take it from Lord KIMBERLEY'S speech in the House of Lords, 21st June, 1880, and his published despatches, that Her Majesty's Government is satisfied that if there were proper guarantees against the abuses connected with the Chinese methods of adoption and of domestic service, the mere fact of a money payment would not be sufficient reason for proceeding otherwise than gradually against these systems, which are the natural concomitants of Chinese patriarchalism. There are signs, however, amonst the Chinese of what Sir HENRY MAINE calls "the movement from Status to Contract" and "the ideas of which the race is capable" shew themselves to be different from what they were when the eminent author of "Ancient law" published that work. But, as already observed, no opportunity is lost by the Officials of the Colony in proclaiming the rights of the Chinese here, the freedom of the subject, man, woman and child. It is emphatically impressed upon the inhabitants, that the payment of money for a child confers no title which English Officers will recognise. Again and again has it been pointed out by the Judges of the Supreme Court, by the Magistrates, and Police Officers, that no valid claim can be set up to the custody of any person because of a money payment, and the grown up permanent residents of the Colony and its frequenters thoroughly know our laws on this point. Frequently, at the Police Courts and the Police Stations and at the Registrar General's office claims of right by purchase have been set aside accompanied by a strong admonition. If there was a breach of criminal law there has always been punishment; and although in the course of time, not far distant it is hoped, the knowledge of English laws and customs will permeate the neighbouring province and no claim by right of purchase will be thought of here, nevertheless, as Lord KIMBERLEY remarks, "the position of the children now under consideration "is one of peril, which may require safeguards," (par. 18, page 123 printed papers). For undoubtedly there are children bought as servants, who are brought up by abandoned women with the ultimate object of prostitution either here or at the
+
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:
5
or
Straits Settlements. The American market is now no longer open. Young girls, brought up with the idea that they are the property of their "pocket-mothers mistresses (and that they are so the "pocket-mothers" and mistresses inculcate with much assiduity), cannot be expected to make much fight for liberty or virtue even if they all knew their rights. As a matter of fact the loyalty of these girls to their "pocket-mothers" or mistresses is such that often when they seek to be registered as prostitutes and are closely catechised as to their freedom, they will break into tears and protest that not only are they willing to become prostitutes but that it is their wish in order to provide for their mother or father or some near relations. The notion of duty of a Chinese daughter, natural-born or adopted, is that she must postitute herself if the person in loco parentis indicates that it is expected of her. Frequent reports have shewn how difficult it is to get these girls to help themselves; and that although they know they can claim their freedom, as a rule they feel that to do so would be dishonest to the women who had bought them at Canton and placed them in brothels. In recent years, however, an improvement has been apparent. The trouble that the Government has taken to explain the position of these unfortunate women has not been in vain. In every room in every Chinese registered brothel in the Colony a printed notice is exhibited explaining that the girls are free, and that if they have been deceived, pledged, or sold they can always get their liberty at once. Every registered woman gets one of these papers. Their visitors see and read these papers to them, and some man who perhaps fancies one of these girls for a concubine tells her that she has only to go with him. He easily persuades her to leave; often abandons her afterwards, or perhaps he may induce her to go to the Straits Settlements ostensibly as his wife and sell her into a brothel there. But that many more of these women now leave the brothels than formerly without paying up their mistresses what they owe, or letting the pocket-mother know their intentions is unquestionable. The consequence is that the brothel keepers find that to advance money on a girl on a promise of brothel service is an unsafe security, and before long I believe no such advances will be made in Hongkong, a result greatly to be desired.
III.
Kidnapping partly chargeable to the Chinese systems of
Adoption and Domestic Service.
I have shewn in the foregoing paragraphs how by a fraud upon the parents the Chinese system of purchasing female children for adoption and domestic service is abused. My remarks have been directed to the training up of girls for prostitu- tion and selling them into "brothel slavery" when the parents had voluntarily parted with their offspring in order to be daughters and servants, " to be provided with husbands when they came to womanhood"; but there is yet another evil which the Chinese themselves admit their custom encourages. I refer to kidnapping. In China that crime is a capital offence. A kidnapper loses his head very promptly if caught and convicted on the other side of our boundary. In Hongkong the crime was found to be so common that in 1868 a law was passed which enabled the Supreme Court to flog in addition to other punishments. That law had a very wonderful effect. It did not apply of course to women, and hence female child- stealers were more common than males.
Children are stolon (1°) to be ransomed.
(2o.) to be sold.
When a child is missing the parents advertise in the public thoroughfares and offer rewards, and the person who has stolen the child or a confederate pretends to find the child and obtains the reward, or, what is more frequent when the children (whether males or females) are stolen from Canton or the country, the children are sold to be adopted sons or domestic servants. There are generally four or five persons engaged in this transaction. The child-stealer manages to get three or four old women to find out somebody who wants to buy a son or daughter or servant. The child has been carefully taught to call its kidnapper "mother or "aunt"; or "father" or "uncle," if a man. The intending purchaser sees the child and inquires how it comes to be sold. The go-between and other women vouch that it is owing to the poverty of the parents, and the child when questioned will
""
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repeat perhaps that its father is dead, and that the person offering it for sale is the mother. Grief at parting with the child is easily assumed to keep up appearances. A bill of sale is made out, the money is paid, and the kidnapper goes away with the proceeds. The old women who are invariably called in to help in the transac- tion get a dollar or two, and the purchaser, who may have bought the child according to Chinese custom in all good faith, finds himself in the hands of the Chinese Mandarins or, if in Hongkong, at the Police Court. There is this difference, however, in the action taken before the different authorities. In China the child's parents cannot get back the child until the purchaser has been refunded what he has paid (I assume that the formal documents have passed); whereas in the English Court the purchaser is very lucky if he can prove that he believed he got the child from its legal custodians. A case occurred in the beginning of this year, Wong a Hoi's case, in reference to a kidnapped or decoyed girl who was taken to Canton from here and sold for $65. A man who recommended the seller was also security as go-between. This Government applied to the British Consul to get the girl back. I gave a letter addressed to the Consul to a witness and the mother of the girl. An official from the Nam Hoi Magistrate's Yamen went to the people who had the girl. The guarantor had to pay up the money and the girl was sent down here through the Consul. The Chinese authorities, I was informed, through the Po Leung Kuk, made the guarantor pay up before taking away the child. The fact therefore that the Chinese systems of adoption and service thus recognise money payments would seem to render Hongkong a desirable market, seeing moreover that the punishment here for kidnapping compared with that of China is of the mildest nature; and hence that crime would appear, at least to some extent, to be fostered and encouraged by such systems being permitted here. There are checks and considerations, however, which counteract the evil, as will presently appear.
IV.
Suggestions for the better prevention of abuses arising from the Chinese systems of Child Adoption and Domestic Service; checks already existing.
The abuses arising from the Chinese system of child adoption and purchased service are therefore :--
1o Fraud in causing females to be reared and pawned or sold as pros- titutes when the parents parted voluntarily with their children for adoption or service.
2o. Kidnapping of male and female children because they can be sold for
considerable sums of money.
I have tried to find out what is the number of children, male and female, in the Colony who are adopted sons and daughters and also the number of pur- chased servants, but although I have applied to many well-informed Chinese to give an approximate number I cannot get them even to form a conjecture, and the Registrar General has been unable to get any approximation either. In the absence of a census it would be impossible to form a notion of their number and the Chi- nese say that even a census would not be reliable, for the respectable Chinese do not like to speak of their adopted children. They prefer that the adopted children should think that they are natural-born, and obviously the disreputable people would strive to keep from the knowledge of the authorities the nature of the rela- tion existing between themselves and female children who are being reared for an improper life. Therefore any estimates of the number which have been put for- ward by the various writers on this subject must be regarded as purely conjectural.
Although I have pointed out that Hongkong might be reckoned a suitable place for the operations of the kidnapping fraternity, nevertheless the checks now in force have made it an undesirable resort for them. The Government has been
fully alive to the abuses connected with the system. The Imperial Act 24 and 25 Vict. C. 100 is in force here. In 1873, an Ordinance was passed for protection of women and children, and in 1875 it was found necessary to amend it-see Appendix. In addition to these stringent laws the following existing safeguards are to be noted:---
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193
1o. Increased knowledge on the part of the people of late years. The permanent residents know that they have no claim on a child which has been stolen and which they have purchased either for adoption or service under the belief that it was sold by its parents, and they also know the difficulty in escaping from the penalties provided by the law against harbouring or receiving or buying or selling knowing the child to have been kidnapped. They also know that by English law the fact of money having been paid to a parent of itself gives no claim to the possession of the child even as against the parent who had received the money.
2o. Rewards are given by the Government for the detection of kidnappers, and by the "Chinese Society for the protection of women and children."
3o. The system of photographing for purposes of identification in order to prevent personation of registered prostitutes and women and children who pass the Emigration office, and the promulgation of the fact that such a system exists.
4°. Every registered prostitutes gets a paper in Chinese telling her of her freedom and every room in every brothel has a notice affixed like the one annexed. (See Appendix).
*
The frequency with which steamers leave the Colony for Singapore and Penang led to much kidnapping of both young girls and women and children. Children were easily passed as those of Chinese returning to Singapore. Girls too and women were said to be personated before the Emigration Officer. Others who had been decoyed were said to be put on board the steamer when the vessel was about to start. Other frauds of substitution were frequently reported. Having found the system of photographs very successful in preventing personation in the registered brothels the Government, on my recommendation last year adopted the same system with reference to women and children about to emigrate. The system with intending emigrants is as follows: A woman or child takes each two photo- graphs to the Emigration Officer. He enquires as to their freedom. If they are passed one photograph is stamped, the name inscribed on it, and it is numbered. It is given to the emigrant. Duplicates are filed at the office and are preserved for three months. Any one who loses a child, wife, or sister can go to the Emigration Office and inspect the Albums. If the missing one is on board a telegram is gene- rally sent to the Singapore Government asking that inquiries should be made. By an arrangement with this. Government the Straits Government requires every woman and child to produce the stamped photograph, and the officer there would immediately detect the person presenting a wrong one. The Po Leung Kuk write on the 13th September, 1882, (see Registrar General's letter of the 19th submitting a translation):-"We are of opinion that since its adoption(i. e., photo- "graphing brothel inmates) the number of young people who are inveigled into the Colony or brought for the purposes of prostitution has gradually decreased." The Society highly approved of the extension to emigrants of the photographing system and made some suggestions which are adopted. I also append returns of the number of cases of kidnapping, including illegal detention of women and children, and sales of women for prostitution and emigration for the last 10 years. From these returns it appear that fewer persons have been convicted in 1882 than in any year since 1874 although the population has increased 25 per cent. since then, and compared with 1880 the number of persons convicted of those crimes is. as 29 is to 68; a very marked change. The number of
persons convicted up to June 30th this year is only 4, and one extradition case to Singapore, and no case has been grave enough to send to the Supreme Court. This result must be consi- dered satisfactory.
""
In paragraph 18 page 123 of the Blue-book cited above Lord KIMBERLEY partially discusses three different suggested remedies. His first suggestion is to make it a misdemeanour to purport to pass a child for money in the Colony. The objections to that change in the Criminal law His Lordship himself pointed out. I think they are almost fatal and that our present Criminal law goes as far as a general regard for liberty will permit. His Lordship's third scheme, namely, registration of adopted children, had been thought of and already suggested; but there are in my opinion insuperable objections to that plan. The best informed
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Chinese think so too; for it will be remembered that money always passes when strangers-in-blood are adopted, as well as in cases of domestic service. The regis- tration of such a transaction at a Government office would be at once construed as giving a good title in virtue of the money payment and it would be used against a child seeking its freedom. Frequently Chinese will come to the Registrar General's office and ask to have a transaction of sale into adoption witnessed with the view of having the fact recorded that a certain amount of money was advanced or paid. This is to preserve evidence in case a claim is made for the child. The danger therefore is that the Government would be compromised by countenancing in any way a transaction where money was paid for a child. I think a modification of Lord KIMBERLEY'S second suggestion would be practicable, as it is based on the universal custom of giving security which prevails in China. It would work smoothly and probably accomplish much good. At all events it might be tried as an experiment.
་
The scheme which I suggested is that power should be given to the Registrar Ge- neral to summon before him suspicious persons who had "pocket-daughters" or female domestic servants, and in his discretion to call upon them to find reasonable security for their bona fides towards such children. The Registrar General should associate with himself say three or four members of the Po Leung Kuk-the Chinese society for the protection of women and children-who would advise him as a Consulting Committee. He should also have power to summon before him all women of disreputable character who kept girls between the ages of 8 and 16 inclusive by virtue of adoption or of purchase for domestic service. He should have power to require the attendance of the girls at his office before himself and the consulting Chinese Committee. He should be able also to summon persons as witnesses who could give information about either the children or their so-called owners. The girl could be instructed in her rights in cases of suspicion and shewn how she could be protected; and the woman put under a rule of bail to produce the girl when required. There should also be a power of appeal in a summary way to a Judge in chambers against any order of the Registrar General, and the Registrar General should be empowered to apply to a Judge for a writ of Habeas · Corpus, with the view of taking away any child from the custody of persons who had no right to keep it, and whose retention of it militated against the child's interests. The Judge of course would be governed by the principles of English law and make such order as the best interests of the child demanded. The knowledge of the existence of such a power and its occasional exercise would, in my opinion, be most useful, and the leading Chinese whom I have consulted think it is the only practical method yet suggested which whilst not interfering with the respectable and settled population would be a very powerful aid towards sup- pressing the "Tsó Chû fa" nurseries. for rearing up young girls for immoral purposes. The names of the. consulting Chinese Committee should be approved by the Governor. The Committee would have no executive power. Their function would be purely consultative. By way of further precaution, and for the better promulgation of our law of liberty, I think there might also be erected in some of the public thoroughfares on the borders of our territory on the mainland and near some of the Chinese wharves stone tablets with inscriptions to the effect that in British territory no such thing as slavery existed, and that all transactions of purchase and sale of children were null and void. Similar tablets might be placed at the Temples and Theatres and other places of public resort. The Chinese promulgate edicts by proclamations and have engraved on stone what they want to be permanent. I would suggest also that notice boards should be put up per- manently in the River steamers pointing out that every woman and child had a right to personal freedom and that no money bargain could be valid on English soil. On the steamers plying between Canton and here, and Macao and this port, and in the passenger steamers to the Straits Settlements such notices are posted up by the Emigration Officer warning people who go before him that they are free to refuse to go on board if they wish, and that they can complain to the officers on the ships or at Singapore. A more general statement of the rights of all persons might be prepared and painted on white boards. With these precautions in addition to those now in force; and a continued vigilant care on the part of all Judicial and Executive officers to promptly attend to all cases where there is any suspicion against the liberty of the subject, the abuses arising from the system of domestic service and adoption will be all but put a stop to, whilst the views of the Chinese-who are the bulk of the population-will be met, and their customs and
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usages maintained, (so far as is consistent with perfect freedom of the subject) as was promised them when Hongkong was erected into a Colony and they were invited to settle here.
TO RECAPITULATE.
1o. It is shewn that child adoption in China and among the Chinese in Hong- kong is always accompanied by the payment of money and a "deed of gift" or bill of sale when the adopted are strangers-in-blood; and that even money passes in the case of relatives if the parents of the adopted child are poor or not nearly related to the adopting parents.
2o. It is shewn that male children are not bought and sold as servants in Hongkong nor in the Canton province, but that female children are disposed of for money by their parents according to Chinese usage and custom, and that the Chinese authorities recognise such sales as binding if executed with due formalities, whilst Hongkong treats all such transactions as null and void, giving no rights and conferring no title.
3o. It is shewn that the abuses arising from the Chinese system of money passing in the case of adoption and domestic service are :—
1o. Kidnapping to some extent.
2o. Brothel bondage; and that female children who are voluntarily parted with by their parents for daughters and servants may be sold as prostitutes by disreputable persons.
4o. It is shewn that claims set up by Chinese to ownership on the ground of purchase have been promptly set aside in Hongkong and the claimants punished for any assault or offence committed against the person claimed-and that no oppor- tunity has been lost of proclaiming the freedom of the subject.
5o. It has been shewn that the laws have been amended from time to time to the utmost limit to protect women and girls and children against forced or fraudu- lent emigration or sales for purposes of prostitution, (see Ordinance 2 of 1875, annexed).
6o. It has been shewn that the supervision of brothels, the instructing the registered women as to their rights, and the system of photographing registered prostitutes and women and children who intend to emigrate, have done much good and that there has been an enormous reduction in the kidnapping cases and sel- ling women for prostitution since the introduction of those measures, convictions being 29 persons in 1882 as against 68 in a former year, and only 4 up to the present date.
7°. It has been shewn that there are fatal objections to the registration of children purchased for adoption or domestic service, and it is suggested that the Registrar General and a Chinese Committee should investigate cases of a suspicious nature with power to call upon "pocket-mothers" to give security for their bonâ fides towards "pocket-daughters"; also that the Registrar General should be able to apply to a Judge in Chambers for a writ of Habeas Corpus with the view of taking away from improper custodians a purchased child. It is also suggested that stone tablets stating the law of freedom on English soil should be erected in places of public resort.
J. RUSSELL.
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APPENDIX TO REPORT ON CHILD ADOPTION AND DOMESTIC SERVICE AMONGST THE HONGKONG CHINESE.
A.-Form of transfer of a son for adoption, taken from "Book of Domestic Rites." B.-Letter of Instructions to an adopted son, stating how he was adopted. C.-Deed of Sale, in the case of the adoption of a Stranger-in-blood. D.-Bill of Scale where a boy was decoyed from Canton and sold in Kaulung.
The Hawker's case,
see page 33 of Blue-book C 3185 of 1882, (two women sentenced to 18 months each). E.-Deed of Sale of a daughter as a Servant, from "Book of Domestic Rites." F.-Endorsement of Re-sale of a Servant, from "Book of Domestic Rites."
C.-Deed mortgaging a Daughter as a Servant.
H.-Deed of Sale of a Daughter as Servant, where same girl is transferred to another, endorsement
on the same paper.
I.-"Presentation Card" of a Daughter to be a Servant (Money passes, and the term present is of
course only a fiction). ·
J.-Bill of Sale put forward by a Claimant for a Child.
K.-
-Sale of a grown-up daughter as a concubine from Sir T. WADE's Documentary Series. L.-Ordinance 6 of 1873, with statement of odjects and reasons.
M.-Ordinance 2 of 1875, with statement amended.
N.-Notices to Registered Prostitutes, of their freedom on British soil however they may have got
there.
O.-Emigration Officer's Notices of photographs required to prevent personation of Women and
Children, who have duly passed for Emigration.
P.-Return of Kidnapping cases in Hongkong from 1872 to June 30th, 1883, including sales of
women for prostitutes.
-Return of Kidnapping cases in Hongkong from January, 1883, to July, 1883, including sales
of women for prostitutes.
R.-Notices on Steamers with view to prevent kidnapping into or from Hongkong.
A.
Form from the Vol. 12 of « Ka-lai-tai-tsün” or “Complete Set of Domestic Rites.”
TRANSFER OF A SON FOR ADOPTION.
This agreement is drawn up by
who has a second son
aged
clan, being in want of posterity, selects (this son) to be his son. I and my wife
a junior member of the clan years. A senior member of the
do hereby give our consent to our second son going over to his family to be brought up by his wife in order to continue his family line. I have, this day, in conjunction with my wife, received
dollars for nursing my son, who
will this day enter the family, and will obey the directions of the senior member and his wife. When he has attained to manhood, he will be married, and his offspring will for ever be considered the descendants of the senior member. The family inheritance is not to be squandered nor wasted in profligacy by him, and no others are to usurp the same under any pretext whatsoever. This is agreed to by both parties. In future, I will neither go back on my word, nor instigate (the son) to rebel, nor to leave (the family of the senior member) with abundance after he came to it empty handed, nor will I depart from what has been agreed on. But my desire is that he may have a continuous line of descendants. In proof whereof, this agreement is drawn up.
Dated
Signed
Transferor of the son.
Signed
Nearest relatives.
Signed
Go-between.
Signed
Witness to the adoption.
Signed
Wife of the Transferor.
Signed.
Elder brother of the son.
11-
B.
197
Form from Vol. 12 of "Ka-lai-tai-tsün" or " Complete Set of Domestic Rites."
LETTER OF INSTRUCTIONS REFERRING TO AN ADOPTED SON.
makes this document with a view to giving instructions to an adopted son who is to continue the family line. Being waning in good deeds and virtuous acts, I, the said have had no children born to me. In consideration of what an important thing it is to have an heir, I have this
day of
moon convened a meeting of my nearest relatives to discuss the question of adopting a son, and the said nearest relatives having declined to give any of their sons, although they have several, to be adopted, it is resolved to select a son of a clansman of the same degree of seniority (as myself.) introduces and recommends the second son of and aged
nearest relatives
ms
are all agreeable to as my son and successor. and wife
family named years. He belongs to. the same clan, and is of a suitable descent. Moreover
and his wife
have several sons, and they and their being adopted by I have, this day, paid
dollars to to be taken home by them as compensation This letter of instructions is this day executed, has come over to my house, and when he will rest the power of marrying him, so that he may beget offspring by which I may have prosperous descendants. This will be no concern of
In proof thereof, this deed is executed.
for their trouble of nursing and rearing the boy. and signed by all (present). After arrives at manhood, with me
Dated.
Signed
The
person making this letter of instructions:
Signed.
Nearest relatives.
Signed
Go-between.
Signed
Witness to the adoption.
Signed
Father giving his son in adoption.
Signed
Mother.
Signed
First son of parenis giving son in adoption.
C.
Furnished by the Chairman of Directors of the Tung-wa Hospital, Hongkong-- Mr. Li Tak-cheong-July, 1883.
FORM OF DEED OF SALE OF A SON INTO ADOPTION.
day of the
Village in
A and Mrs. A of
District, the parties executing this deed of permanent sale of a son, being unable to support themselves on account of poverty, and having many children, consulted together, and willingly invited people to purchase their (4th) son as an adopted son. The boy is
years of age, having been born in
on the moon, and is named
(or is not yet named), and they demanded the sum of
dollars as nursing money (or ginger and cake money). He (the boy) was, through the agency of the go-between B, introduced to the family of Mr. C, who expressed his willingness to buy him as an adopted son, and consented to pay the full demand of dollars as nursing-money (or ginger and cake money). The bargain, which was settled in the presence of the three parties (A, B, & C), and agreed to by both parties, was satis- factorily made on this date in the presence of all. This is a clear case of purchase and sale, and is not a case of giving the boy as a set-off against debts. After the boy is once sold, Mr. C is permitted to bring him up to manhood, and give him a name. He must remain as Mr. C's adopted son for ever, and when he is grown-up, Mr. C is likewise at liberty to engage a teacher to teach him. If in future, he attains to fame or becomes illustrious, takes a wife or concubine, and has children and grandchildren, all these concern Mr. C's family. May he follow his (adopted) father's trade, and have a never ending line of descendants! May he henceforth have a numerous progeny and everlastingly enjoy prosperity! Hereafter, the vendors cannot go back on their word, or redeem the boy, who is for ever prevented from taking back his own father's surname. The purchaser, however, is not allowed to make the boy a slave, or to re-sell him to another person, or to do other
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things of the like in respect of the boy. If anything unforeseen happens to the boy, it will be held to be the will of heaven, and no one can gainsay these words. Further, if there should be anything doubtful about the boy's antecedents, this must be cleared up satisfactorily by the vendors and go- between: it is no concern of the buyer. Lest there is no proof of this bargain, this deed of nent sale of the boy is executed, and handed to Mr. C in evidence thereof.
Received from Mr. C the sum of
perma-
dollars as nursing money.
(Signed)
B
go-between.
Mrs. B
"
وو
Witness.
"
A
""
"
Mrs. A (Finger mark).
Dated
day
moon
year.
D.
Copy of the Bill of Sale where the Kaulung Druggist bought a boy who was decoyed from Canton-See page 33 of Blue-book C. 3185 of 1882,
TRANSLATION.
An absolute deed of gift of a male child aged 13 years is executed by Li-piu, a native of Ko Iu. In consequence of want of maintenance, I at first offered (the child) to my nearest relatives to bring (him) up, which offer, however, was not accepted. Through the introduction of a go-be- tween (I was introduced) to one Lau-pak-cheung, who agreed to rear (the child) and to adopt (him) as (his) nephew. This day $28 at 7.1 as ginger money (compensation) is paid over to Li-piu, who has received it with his own hand for his family expenses, and Lau-pak-cheung will bring him up and use him (as a nephew). On (the child) being handed over there can for ever be no claim whatever.
There is no compulsion or extortion between both parties. For fear of oral words not being sufficient evidence, (this) deed is therefore executed, and is to be retained (by him or her) as proof hereof.
Witnesses to payment,
WONG SHI
CHAN SHI Finger marks. KWAN SHI
The boy's age is 13 years, born at 10 A.M. on the 16th day of the 8th month. Dated 24th day of the 2nd moon in the Ki Mo 5th year of Kwong Sü (i.e. 16th March, 1879).
E.
Form from Vol. 12 of the" Ka-lai-tai-tsün” or “ Complete Set of Domestic Rites.”
DEED OF SALE OF A SERVANT.
and wife
hour of
of a daughter, have a daughter named
been born at
day of
, the parties executing this deed of sale who is at present years of age, having moon. She has not yet been betrothed
to any one. Being poor, and finding it hard to earn our livelihood, and wishing to sell our daughter we have been introduced, through the agency of the go-between who undertakes to purchase her. The price, which is
to dollars, has been paid to us this
day, and will be taken to our home to meet our wants. On the same day, the daughter will go over to the house (of the purchaser), who will be at liberty to change her name, use her as a servant, and to betroth her when she is grown-up. If she should abscond, we the said
·
will co-operate (with the purchaser) in making search for her, and deliver her back (to the purchaser if found). If anything unforeseen should happen to her, such will be held to be the will of Heaven. This is agreed to by both parties. The sum given above is the exact amount paid. This is not a case of giving her up as a set-off against a debt. In future, we cannot avail of any pretext to go back on our words, or redeem her. As a proof (of the transaction), this deed of sale is executed, and handed over (to the purchaser).
Dated
Signed
The party executing this deed of sale of a daughter.
Signed
Witness to payment and go-between.
Signed
Wife who has taken part in the sale and received the money.
"
199
I
13-
F.
Form from Vol. 12 of the “Ka-la-tai-tsün
"
or
Complete Set of Domestic Rites.”
DEED OF RE-SALE OF A SERVANT GIRL.
have this
through the instrumentality of the go-between
to
day of
moon of
year,
re-sold this servant girl named taels, standard weight,
as a servant, for the sum of as agreed upon in the presence of the three parties. I have, this day, in the presence of the go- between, personally received the money, and the servant girl is to go forthwith to the house (of the purchaser). The family of
will be at liberty to change her name, and use her as.
as a servant. An additional proof.
This should be endorsed on back of the first deed of sale.
G.
Form from the "Ka-lai-tai-tsün," Vol. 12.
DEED PLEDGING A SERVANT.
a daughter named
and his wife
aged
to
>
the parties executing this deed pledging years, born at
hour of
>
day of
moon, who has not yet been betrothed. Being poor and not having enough for our daily wants, and being desirous of pledging our daughter, we have been introduced, through the agency of the go-between'
who undertakes to take her on
taels in
dollars, and On the same date, (the daughter) going to take her on pledge), and If the principal and interest due considered as sold, and cannot be over (to the person taking the
pledge. The principal advanced on this day for the pledge is interest is fixed at
candareens per tael per mensem. will enter the house (of the person who is mace will be paid for her maintenance every month. are not repaid in the course of a year, (the daughter) will be redeemed. In proof hereof, this deed is executed, and handed daughter on pledge).
Dated.
Signed.
Mortgagor.
Signed
Witness to payment and go-between.
Signed.
Wife who is a party to the pledging.
H.
Deed of Sale of a Female Servant with power of redemption-endorsement of re-sale.
This deed of permanent sale of a daughter is executed by
Being poor, and in need of money to meet my wants, and having consulted my wife, I wish to offer for sale this daughter of mine named
and aged
years, that I
may meet my wants with the money paid for her. At first, my nearest relatives and neighbours were invited to purchase her, but they would not undertake to do so. She is afterwards, through the agency of the go-between,
introduced to
who undertakes to purchase her, and the price On this day, the deed is executed, the purchase who will take it home with his is at liberty to bring her up, and use her will her to a proper person. If
marry
is fixed in the presence of three parties at 35 dollars. completed, and the money paid to me the said· wife to meet his wants. After the sale,
as a servant.
When she is grown up,
•
anything unforeseen should happen to her, this will be held as the will of Heaven. But if there should be anything doubtful about her antecedents, this will be settled satisfactorily by in conjunction with the go-between, it is no concern of
If I, the said become rich, I shall be at liberty to redeem her, on payment of a small sum for her subsistence per month (in addition to the amount paid for her). This is agreed upon in the presence of three parties, and I shall not go back on my word. Lest a verbal agreement be held as insufficient evidence, this deed of sale of the daughter is expressly executed, and given to
as proof.
1. Sold a daughter named
hour of
2. Received from
of
aged
moon.
the sum of
years and born at
dollars weighing 7 mace 2 canda-
reens each as price of a servant girl. Dated 24th day of 3rd moon of the 11th year of Tung-chi, (1872).
(Signed)
the party executing this deed of selling a daughter. 's Finger mark (the wife of the above named person). 's Finger mark (go-between and witness to payment).
She
NOTE.-The above translation is that of a document produced by a leading Chinese gentleman. The names are left out, but otherwise it is the copy of a deed held by him of a purchased girl. was first sold under this deed at Macao, and then transferred to his family as per endorsement annexed in 1876. She is to be married next month to his valet, and will have a place of her own. The girl is absolutely free.
J. R.
---
200
14
Endorsement of re-sale of Servant on deed of 24th day of 3rd moon of the 4th year of Tung Chi
(1872.)
This servant together with the (original) deed has this 20th day of the 1st moon of the 2nd year of Kwong Sü (1876) been re-sold to
for the sum of 125 dollars in full weight and under the same conditions as specified in the said deed. This instrument, which is expressly made at the bottom of the deed, is given to
Signed
as a proof.
The party making an instrument at the
bottom of the original deed.
Finger mark, go-between.
1.
Presenting a Girl for money to be reared and employed as a Servant, with power of redemption.
This card of presentation is executed by
Village in District, and wife
who have a daughter born to them. She (the daughter) was born at
hour of
year, and is named
Being poor, and finding it hard to earn our livelihood, and having consulted together, we wish to present this daughter of ours
of
day of
moon of
.to
as a servant, who is good enough to pay us the sum of 40 dollars as a compensation for our trouble connected with her birth and rearing. When this girl arrives at womanhood,
will be
at liberty to give her in marriage. If any accident should befall her, this will be held to be the will of Heaven, and, we shall have no right to avail ourselves of the opportunity to extort money. 'If we should go back on our word, we must refund the money ($40), and besides pay to
us.
one dollar and fifty cents for her subsistence per month, before the daughter can be taken back by We will not gainsay our word. This girl is really the daughter of the husband and wife who give her as a present, and has nothing to do with outsiders. This card of presentation is executed and given as proof.
:
Dated the 8th day of the 8th moon of the 7th year of Kwong Sü (30th September, 1881).
Signed
The party executing this card of presentation.
Signed
Finger mark, wife.
Witness.
's
NOTE.-The above translation is that of a document brought by the person who has the child. Of course
"this card of presentation" is mere cover for sale. The child is well cared for and is perfectly free.
J.
`J. R.
•
Translation of a bill of sale put forward by a Claimant at the Registrar General's Office, Hongkong, 1882. The names are left out.
I,
native of the Pi Sha of the Tung Kun District do clearly draw up this bond regarding the sale of my daughter. I, being in need of money and having consulted my wife, am willing to sell my second daughter to another family to act as a servant girl, and I have fixed the price at thirty-two dollars exactly. Her name is and she is six years old. She was born on the 2nd day of 2nd moon at Shan, time (6 A.M. to 8 A.M.). She was taken by the go-between. to the Shiu family for inspection, who were pleased with her, and at once offered a current price of thirty-two dollars exactly for her for her services as a servant girl. The said family and myself, having thoroughly understood and mutually agreed to the conditions of the bargain, have appointed a day for its completion. My wife and myself have personally received thirty-two dollars exactly for the sale of the daughter. None of the dollars are broken and they are all of full weight. This bargain was publicly made. The girl was not given up in order to sett le a claim nor was she abducted. In case of there being any uncertainty about the origin of the girl, the matter must be settled by the said father
and the go-between
The purchasers have nothing to do with this. I déclare that I must take back the girl and return the money re- ceived for her if she is found to have been already betrothed or is suffering from leprosy. As regards other accidents which may befall her in future, we must all submit to the will of Heaven. We cannot avail of this opportunity to extort money. When she grows to maturity and is married to another family, her father and mother should be notified of it so that they might communicate with her. The masters are at liberty to re-sell her to another family for disobedience. There can be no impe- diment to this. After the sale, the father and mother cannot have frequent intercourse with her without reason.. The masters can give her any other name they please. Both parties have understood and agreed to this in the presence of the go-between. A bond, regarding the sale of the daughter, is drawn up on the same day and handed to the purchasers as a proof.
(Signed)
go-between
(Signed) (
"
10th day of 9th moon of the 13th Year of Tung Chi.
(Herewith Finger-mark).
The party making
this Bond.
201
15
к.
From Sir Thomas Wade's Documentary Series of the "Tsz-urh-chi.”
SALE OF A DAUGHTER TO BE A CONCUBINE.
"Ng Fung-ming, the party signing this deed of sale being in great poverty, has, through the "agency of To I, sold his own daughter, Ng Üt-chan, aged seventeen, to Ü-lo-ye, for a concubine. It having been agreed in the presence of the agent that the price to be paid for her should be Six "hundred taels, (about £200) and this sum having been paid in full in the presence of the agent, "the purchaser is free, from the time of the sale, to take away the seller's daughter, namely Ng Üt-chan: nor will the seller or the seller's wife gainsay his right. These parties also agree once for "all that they will never more hold intercourse with her, or visit her. If she infringe the regula- "tions of Ü lo-ye's household, he will be free as head of the family to correct her; it will not be in "her father's power to interfere. If she fall sick or die young, (it will be held to be) the will of "Heaven. For any intrigue or fraud (on the part of her parents), the agent To I will be responsible. "This deed of sale is expressly executed lest hereafter there should be no evidence of the sale. Signed with the finger mark of Ng Fung-ming and Ting his wife, being the parties executing the "deed and by the agent To I.”
66
NOTE. This woman would be called among foreigners the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th wife of Mr. U. The so-called 2nd, 3rd, and 4th wives are concubines and nothing else. A Chinaman has only one wife properly so-called. She often procures the concubine for her husband; but the children are regarded as having equal rights with those of the "number one wife."
J. R.
1
L.
No. 6 of 1873.
An Ordinance enacted by the Governor of Hongkong, with the Advice of the Legislative Council thereof, for the better Protection of Chinese Women and Female Children, and for the Repression of certain Abuses in relation to Chinese Emigration.
WE
[8th May, 1873.]
HEREAS it is expedient to make better Provision for the Punishment of Persons guilty of selling, purchasing, or decoying into the Colony, or unlawfully detain- ing therein Chinese Women and female Children for the Purpose of Prostitution, and of decoying Chinese into or away from this Colony for the Purpose of Emigration, or for any other Purpose whatsoever: Be it enacted by the Governor of Hongkong, with the Advice of the Legislative Council thereof, as follows:-
I. Whosoever shall bring, lead, take, decoy, or entice into the Colony any Woman or female Child with Intent to sell her for the Purpose of Prostitution, or who shall sell or purchase any Woman or female Child for the purpose aforesaid, or who shall know- ingly derive any Profit from the Sale or Purchase of any Woman or female Child so sold or purchased as aforesaid, shall be guilty of a Misdemeanour, and on Conviction thereof, shall be liable to the Punishments hereinafter provided.
II. Whosoever shall unlawfully detain any Woman or female Child in any Place against her Will with the Intent that she may become a Prostitute, or for any other Purpose whatsoever, or who shall by any false Pretences, false Representations, or other fraudulent Means procure any Woman or female Child to have illicit carnal Connexion with any Man, shall be guilty of a Misdemeanour, and on Conviction thereof, shall be liable to the Punishments hereinafter provided.
III. Whosoever shall unlawfully receive, or harbor any Woman or female Child with Intent that such Woman or female Child should be sold or purchased for the Purpose of Prostitution, shall be guilty of a Misdemeanour, and on Conviction thereof, shall be liable to the Punishments hereinafter provided.
IV. Whosoever shall unlawfully by Force or Fraud imprison or detain any Person within the Colony, for the Purpose of Emigration, or for any other Purpose whatsoever, shall be guilty of a Misdemeanour, and on Conviction thereof, shall be liable to the Punish- ments hereinafter provided.
V. Whosoever shall unlawfully, by Force, Intimidation, or any fraudulent Means bring, lead, take, decoy, or entice any Person into or away from the Colony, for the Purpose of Emigration, or for any other Purpose whatsoever, shall be guilty of a Misde- meanour, and on Conviction thereof; shall be liable to the Punishments hereinafter provided. VI. Every Person who shall be convicted of any Offence against the Provisions of this Ordinance shall be liable to be imprisoned for any Term not exceeding Two Years with or without Hard Labour.
VII. All Offences against this Ordinance may be heard and determined summarily by two Magistrates sitting together, who shall constitute a Court for this Purpose: Provided that if at the Close of the Investigation, the Accused shall apply for a Trial by Jury, or the Magistrates shall be of opinion that the Case ought to be so tried, they may commit the Accused for Trial at the Supreme Court.
VIII. The Provisions of Section LXVI of Ordinance No. 4 of 1865 shall apply to every Summary Conviction under this Ordinance.
Title.
Preamble.
Abduction of
& Woman or female Child with Intent,
&c.
Selling or purchasing.
Detaining a Woman or female Child for Purpose of Prostitution.
Beceiving or Harbouring with Intent,
Sze.
Unlawful Imprisonment or Detention.
Decoying Persons into ro away from the Colony.
Punishment for Offences.
Trial of
Offences.
Summary Convictions.
:
1.
202
Punishment of Whipping. on second and
subsequent Convictions,
Form of Information and Proceed- ings.
16
IX. Whenever any Person shall be convicted before the Supreme Court of any Offence against the Provisions of this Ordinance, if it shall be proved that the Offender has been previously convicted either before the Supreme Court, or before two Magistrates sitting together, of an Offence under the same or any other Section of this Ordinance, it shall be lawful for the Court, in its Discretion, to direct that, in addition to the Punish- ment hereinafter prescribed, the Offender, if a Male, be once, twice, or thrice publicly or privately whipped subject to the Provisions contained in Section I of Ordinance No. 3 of 1868; and all the Provisions of Section XCIV of Ordinance No. 7 of 1865 relating to the Form of Information for a subsequent Offence and Proceedings thereon, shall apply to Offences punishable under this Ordinance.
Statement of Objects and Reasons.
The Provisions of this Ordinance are intended to repress certain offences and abuses which there is reason to believe are of frequent occurrence among the lower classes of the Chinese Population of this Colony, viz., the buying and selling of women and girls and their forcible or fraudulent abduction or detention for the purposes of prostitution. Also the decoying away under false pretences, or the abduction by force or intimidation, of persons for the purposes of Chinese Emigration. All the offences defined by this Ordinance are in a great measure ejusdem generis, and are made punishable alike by imprisonment with or without hard labour for a period not exceeding two years; and power is given to the Supreme Court, whenever previous convictions are proved, to direct the offender, if a male, to be whipped under the provisions of Ordinance No. 3 of 1868. It is proposed that this Ordinance should not come into force until Her Majesty's confirmation of it has been received, and therefore the usual Suspending Clause to that effect has been inserted.
JULIAN PAUNCEFOTE, Attorney General.
NOTE.--The above statement was appended to the Bill when introduced early in 1873.
J. R.
M.
No. 2 of 1875.
Title.
Preamble.
Repeal
Abduction of
a woman or
female child with intent, &c.
Selling or purchasing.
Bringing into
the Colony women or children
knowing them to have been sold for
prostitution
Detaining a
woman or female child for purpose of
prostitution.
Receiving or harbouring with intent,
&c.
An Ordinance enacted by the Governor of Hongkong, with the Advice of the Legislative Council thereof, for the better Protection of Chinese Women and Female Children, and for the Repression of certain Abuses in relation to Chinese Emigration.
[March 18th, 1875.]
WHEREAS it is expedient to make better provision for the punishment of persons
guilty of selling, purchasing, or decoying into the Colony, or unlawfully detaining therein Chinese women and female children for the purpose of prostitution, and of decoy- ing Chinese into or away from this Colony for the purpose of emigration, or for any other purpose whatsoever: Be it enacted by the Governor of Hongkong, with the advice of the Legislative Council thereof, as follows:-
I. The Ordinance No. 6 of 1873 is hereby repealed, but such repeal shall not affect:-
1. Any punishment incurred or to be incurred for any offence committed before
this Ordinance comes into operation.
2. Any proceedings for enforcing such punishment or prosecuting the offender; and all such proceedings may be had and taken as if the said Ordinance were still in force.
II. Whosoever shall bring, lead, take, decoy, or entice into the Colony any woman or female child with intent to sell her for the purpose of prostitution, or shall sell or purchase any woman or female child for the purpose aforesaid, or shall knowingly derive any profit from the sale o purchase of any woman or female child so sold or purchased as aforesaid, shall be guilty of a misdemeanour, and on conviction thereof, shall be liable to the punishments hereinafter provided.
III. Whosoever shall bring, lead, take, decoy, or entice into the Colony any woman or female child knowing that such woman or female child has been sold or purchased for the
purpose of prostitution, shall be guilty of a misdemeanour, and on conviction thereof shall be liable to the punishments hereinafter provided.
IV. Whosoever shall detain any woman or female child in any place against her will with the intent that she may become a prostitute, or for any other purpose whatsoever, or shall by any false pretences, false representations, or other fraudulent means procure any woman or female child to have illicit carnal connexion with any man, shall be guilty of a misdemeanour, and on conviction thereof, shall be liable to the punishments herein- after provided.
V. Whosoever shall receive, or harbour any woman or female child with intent that such woman or female child should be sold or purchased for the purpose of prostitution, shall be guilty of a misdemeanour, and on conviction thereof, shall be liable to the punish- ments hereinafter provided.
203
17
VI. Whosoever shall receive or harbour any woman or female child knowing that such woman or female child has been sold or purchased whether within the Colony or elsewhere for the purpose of prostitution shall be guilty of a misdemeanour, and on con- viction thereof, shall be liable to the punishments hereinafter provided.
VII. Whosoever shall by force or fraud imprison or detain any person within the Colony, for the purpose of emigration, or for any other purpose whatsoever, shall be guilty of a misdemeanour, and on conviction thereof, shall be liable to the punishments hereinafter provided.
VIII. Whosoever shall by force, intimidation, or any fraudulent means bring, lead, take, decoy, or entice any person into or away from the Colony, for the purpose of emi- gration, or for any other purpose whatsoever, shall be guilty of a misdemeanour, and on conviction thereof, shall be liable to the punishments hereinafter provided.
IX. Every person who shall be convicted of any offence against the provisions of this Ordinance shall be liable to be imprisoned for any term not exceeding two years with or without hard labour.
X. All offences against this Ordinance may be heard and determined summarily by two Magistrates sitting together, who shall constitute a Court for this purpose: Provided that if, at the close of the investigation, the accused shall apply for a trial by Jury, or the Magistrates shall be of opinion that the case ought to be so tried, they may commit the accused for trial at the Supreme Court.
XI. The provisions of Section LXVI of Ordinance No. 4 of 1865 shall apply to every summary conviction under this Ordinance.
XII. Whenever any person shall be convicted before the Supreme Court of any offence against the provisions of this Ordinance, if it shall be proved that the offender has been previously convicted either before the Supreme Court, or before two Magistrates sitting together, of an offence under the same or any other section of this Ordinance, it shall be lawful for the Court, in its discretion, to direct that, in addition to the punishment hereinbefore prescribed, the offender, if a male, be once, twice, or thrice publicly or privately whipped, subject to the provisions contained in section I of Ordinance No. 3 of 1868;
and all the provisions of section XCIV of Ordinance No. 7 of 1865 relating to the form of information for a subsequent offence and proceedings thereon, shall apply to offences punishable under this Ordinance.
Statement of Objects and Reasons.
Receiving or harbouring
women or children knowing them to have been sold for prostitution. Unlawful imprisonment or detention.
Decoying persons into or away from the Colony.
Punishment for offences.
Trial of offences.
Summary
convictions,
Punishment or whipping on second and subsequent convictions.
Form of information and proceed- ings.
The Ordinance No. 6 of 1873 was passed in order to check, by Penal Legislation, the practice of buying and selling women and girls for prostitution and their detention or abduction for the like purposes. There is reason to believe that the Ordinance has done good service in the matter, and has diminished these abuses: but its language seems not to meet the case of women or girls purchased out of the Colony for the purpose of prostitution and brought here to be shipped to California, or elsewhere; unless the women or girls complain of being detained in this Colony against their will. Such complaints have been exceedingly rare, and proof of forcible detention difficult to obtain although there is no moral doubt that females are purchased out of the Colony, and after a few days' residence here are shipped to various places to become prostitutes. This Ordinance in the third and sixth sections aims at meeting these cases, and makes it a misdemeanour for any person to bring into the Colony any woman or girl knowing her to have been purchased for prostitution, or with the like knowledge to receive or harbour any such woman or girl.
;
The rest of the Ordinance is almost a reprint of the Ordinance No. 6 of 1873, which for the sake of convenience is repealed and re-enacted with the two additional sections.
JOHN BRAMSTON,
Attorney General.
Hongkong, 23rd February, 1875.
NOTE. The above Statement was appended to the Draft Amended Bill as laid before the Council. The text as given above is now the law except that public flogging is no longer allowable.
J. R.
N.
壬毋
衙情
情期賣不凡
者
便
館是
犯
許
HFFF
被或
泊將
發爾
誓身
然按
寮兩
行隨
申時
當或
理親
不受他人拘制爾婦女等如有被人拐
凡英國屬土無論何國居民皆得自主
娼會被得
倘赴並取人自
中官非上拐主
立意從不欲爲裝
毋爲寮主所惑 國家必聽其自便不准强留各宜猛省 衙或各差館禀報自必自行申理中
壬午年五月
日華民政務司署給
Without reference to nationality, all persons residing on British Territory are free agents.
They cannot be under the restraint of others. Women; if any of you have been kidnapped, purchased, seduced, deceived, or pledged for money, or have been compelled to swear before entering the brothels that you will act as pros- titutes, which you now object to do, under- stand clearly that such compulsion is illegal, and, that you are at liberty to come personally to this office, or to go to any police station and report the matter at any time you please. Your grievance will be at once attended to. want to leave the brothel, and make up your mind to go to a protector, abandoning prostitu- tion, the Government will certainly let you
do what you please, and will not allow you to be detained against your will. Be all of you then very watchful! Be not deceived by brothel- keepers! Observe this notice.
If you
Registrar General's Office, June, 1882.
204
18.
O.
The Emigration Officer gives notice that for the better protection of Emigrants, it is hereby notified that on and after the 1st proximo, women and children who are taken before him for the purpose of emigrating should be provided with one (subsequently altered to "two") photograph each. If the woman or child is passed, the one (subsequently altered to "two") photograph will be stamped and given back to the Emigrant. The Emigrant will show this photograph to the proper Officer on board the vessel before departure, and again to the Protector of Chinese or proper Officer on the Emigrant's arrival at Port of destination.
(Signed) H. G. THOMSETT, R.N.,
Emigration Officer, &c.
Hongkong, 21st August, 1882.
P.
Return of Kidnapping Cases in Hongkong, from January 1872, till June 30th, 1883.
Year.
Cases Reported.
No. of Persons Convicted.
No. of Persons Discharged.
Total Number Arrested.
1872,
....
1873,
1874,
1875,
1876,
1877,
1878,
1879,
1880,
1881,
1882,
1883 to 30th June,
30
15
27
42
103
66
44
110
51
29
17
46
63
36
35
71
55
31
32
63
73
35
36
71
53
31
69
100
51
38
40
78
65
68
43
111
50
35
63
98
55
29
59
88
16
5*
22
27
* One sent to Singapore on an Extradition Warrant. See Police Court Return. See Magistracy Return following for details of last period.
!
(Signed)
Q.
T. C. DEMPSTER, Captain, Acting Captain Superintendent of Police.
MAGISTRACY RETURN
1st January to 11th July, 1883.
KIDNAPPING.
Total Number of
Total Total Number Number
of
of
Total Number
Total Number
of
Cases
Total Number of
of Persons Persons
Persons Committed
Cases. Persons.
to Gaol pending
:
Convicted. Punished. Discharged.] Orders of
M.
F.
M. F. M.
A
H.E. the Governor.
M.
F.
...
5
9
1.
1
00
8
17th July, 1883.
KIDNAPPING.
(Where Females were stolen.)
| ... |
591
...
CHILD STEALING.
(Where Boys were stolen.)
1 │
に
CHILD STEALING.
REMARKS.
One case in July, one female discharged.
3
(Where Girls were stolen.)
31- 4 | 21(a)
(Signed)
(a) Given up to Singa- pore Government.
W. M. B. ARTHUR,
Acting 1st Clerk,
*
.
-
.
-19-
R.
205.
(Copy.)
No. 189.
Enclosure 1.
See (2).
Notiee posted on Canton and Macao Steamers, and Chinese Passenger Ships leaving Hongkong.
The Harbour Master and Emigration Officer hereby issues a proclamation.
WHEREAS evils have arisen in connection with Emigration, notice is hereby given to you passengers, male and female, that you are, one and all, free agents, you cannot be forced away against your will. If you are unwilling and do not wish to emigrate, you are at liberty to complain now or after starting, to the officers of the ship, when steps will be taken for proteeting you, and returning you safely to your home after the ship reaches its destination. These offers will save you from being deprived of your liberty, and the officials of Singapore and other ports will always be ready to help you to obtain your freedom. Do not disregard these instructions and do not be afraid to state your grievances and wrongs. A special notification.
(3)
Governor Sir G. F. Bowen, G.C.M.G., to Secretary of State for the Colonies.
GOVERNMENT HOUSE, HONGKONG, 15th August, 1883.
MY LORD,
In my despatch, No. 79, of the 22nd May ultimo, I stated that I had found that, before my arrival in this Colony, the Officer lately administering the Govern- ment (Mr. MARSH) had entrusted Mr. Justice RUSSELL (then Registrar General and Protector of the Chinese), with the duty of preparing the report on "the system of Child adoption and Domestic Service as it exists at Hongkong," for. which Lord KIMBERLEY had called in his despatch, No. 40, of the 18th March, 1882. 2. Mr. RUSSELL's subsequent promotion to the Bench of the Supreme Court and the pressure of his official duties necessarily delayed the completion of the Report. But he has now placed it in my hands, and I have great pleasure in transmitting herewith printed copies of it.
3. The delay that has occurred has had this advantage, that it has enabled me to give as close a study as my other manifold duties would permit, to the subject in question, and thereby has placed me in a position to appreciate the great practical value of Mr. RUSSELL'S labours.
4. His Report is a very able, full and yet concise summary of the important difficult, and hitherto little understood subject of which it treats. It should be carefully studied in connexion with the remarkable petition presented to the late Governor in 1879 by an influential section of the Chinese Community in Hongkong, and with the learned essay of Dr. EITEL, which are both printed at pages 44-57 of the "Correspondence respecting the alleged existence of Chinese Slavery in Hongkong," presented to Parliament in March, 1882.
5. Moreover, if it is desired to obtain a thorough grasp of this subject in its true bearings, the Official Student should further make himself acquainted not only with the tenets of Confucius and Mencius, those ancient Legislators and Philoso- phers, whose laws and ethics are still the living guides of the Chinese, but also with the principles of the old Roman institution of the Patria Potestas, with which the immemorial "Patriarchalism" (as it has been termed), or Family Organization of Chinese Society, so closely corresponds. The adoption of the old Romans, and of the Chinese of the present day who still adhere to the laws and customs followed. by their ancestors more than two thousand years ago, have been confounded by persons who look to superficial and apparent rather than to intrinsic and real resemblances and analogies, with Slavery, in the modern and technical sense of that word. But all who have mastered this question know that the adoption and Domestic Service of the Chinese, are derived from the primitive and patriarchal institution of the Patria Potestas; whereas the modern slavery of the Negroes and of other coloured peoples, is founded on the theory of the old Greek Philosophers, who, in view of the real or supposed intellectual inferiority of certain races of man- kind, laid down the doctrine that it was "fit and seemly that Greeks should rule over Barbarians, for by nature Barbarian and Slave are the same thing."
6. As I have already said, the report of Mr. Justice RUSSELL is so full and yet so concise, that I will not attempt to analyse it at any length; and will rather recommend a steady perusal of it as a whole. I will confine myself on the present occasion to pointing out and illustrating some of its more salient features, and to stating the action which I propose to take with regard to carrying out its suggestions.
7. I will now briefly consider separately:-
(a.) Child Adoption. (b.) Domestic Service.
206
20
8. (a.) It will be recollected that a main element of the religion of the Chinese is the worship of ancestors. Consequently, the adoption of male children is founded on the religious necessity of securing representations to perform the Sacred Rites of the Family or clan (gens), the Sacra gentilicia of the Romans. "These Sacra" (to quote the words of Sir HENRY MAINE)" were the Roman form of an Institution which shows itself wherever society has not wholly shaken itself free from its primitive clothing. They are the sacrifices and ceremonies by which the brother- hood of the family is commemorated, the pledge and the witness of its perpetuity. Whatever be their nature,-whether it be true or not that in all cases they are the worship of some mythical ancestor, they are everywhere employed to attest the sacredness of the family relation; and therefore, they acquire prominent significance and importance, whenever the continuous existence of the Family is endangered by a change in the persons of its chief. Accordingly, we hear most about them in connexion with demises of domestic sovereignty. Again: "The Family is the type of an archaic society in all the modifications which it was capable of assuming; but the Family here spoken of is not exactly the family as understood by a modern. In order to reach the ancient conception, we must give to our modern ideas an important extension, and an important limitation. We must look on the family as constantly enlarged by the absorption of strangers within its circle, and we must try to regard the fiction of adoption as so closely simulating the reality of kinship that neither law nor opinion makes the slightest difference between a real and an adoptive connexion. On the other hand, the persons theoretically amalgamated into a family by their common descent, are practically held together by common obedience to their highest living ascendant, the father, grandfather, or great-grand- father. The patriarchal authority of the chieftain is as necessary an ingredient in the notion of the family group, as the fact, (or assumed fact) of its having sprungs from his loins. And hence we must understand that if there be any persons who, however truly included in the brotherhood by virtue of their blood-relationship, have nevertheless, de facto withdrawn themselves from the Empire of its ruler, they are always in the beginnings of law, considered as lost to the family. It is this patriarchal aggregate, the modern Family, this cut down on one side, and extended on the other, which meet us on the threshold of primitive jurisprudence.'
"}
9. It will be recollected that the archaic laws and customs thus described by the high authority of HENRY MAINE, are still as much the rule of social life and feeling in China, as they were, twenty-five centuries ago, both in China and at Rome.
10. The adoption of female children as daughters stands on a different footing from the adoption of male children as sons. But on this point, I would refer to the full explanations given by Mr. Justice RUSSELL, especially with respect to the grave abuses often arising from female adoption; and which the Government and Legislature of Hongkong have already done much,-and will endeavour to do more, to detect, to prevent, and to punish.
dang
11. (b.) With regard to Domestic Service among the Chinese at Hongkong, I will again refer to Mr. RUSSELL's statements of facts and arguments which can hardly be abbreviated without impairing at once their force, their perspecuity, and their practical usefulness.
12. It will be seen that Mr. RUSSELL recapitulates his statements and conclu- sions in the following terms :-
"
1o. It is shewn that child adoption in China and among the Chinese in Hongkong is always accompanied by the payment of money and a “deed of gift or bill of sale when the adopted are strangers-in-blood; and that even money passes in the case of relatives if the parents of the adopted child are poor or not nearly related to the adopting parents.
2o. It is shewn that male children are not bought and sold as servants in Hongkong, nor in the Canton province, but that female children are disposed of for money by their parents according to Chinese usage and custom, and that the Chinese authorities recognise such sales as binding if executed with due formalities, whilst Hongkong treats all such transactions as null and void, giving no rights and conferring no title.
30. It is shewn that the abuses arising from the Chinese system of money passing in the case of adoption and domestic service are :--
1° Kidnapping to some extent.
2o. Brothel bondage; and that female children who are voluntarily parted with by their parents for daughters and servants may be sold as prostitutes by disreputable persons.
}
207*
Enclosure 2.
21
4o. It is shewn that claims set up by Chinese to ownership on the ground of purchase have been promptly set aside in Hongkong and the claimants punished for any assault or offence committed against the person claimed- and that no opportunity has been lost of proclaiming the freedom of the subject.
5o. It has been,shewn that the laws have been amended from time to time to the utmost limit to protect women and girls and children against forced or fraudulent emigration or sales for purposes of prostitution, (see Ordinance 2 of 1875, annexed).
6. It has been shewn that the supervision of brothels, the instructing the registered women as to their rights, and the system of photographing re- gistered prostitutes and women and children who intend to emigrate, have done much good and that there has been an enormous reduction in the kid- napping cases and selling women for prostitution since the introduction of those measures, convictions being 29 persons in 1882 as against 68 in a former year, and only 4 up to the present date.
•
7. It has been shewn that there are fatal objections to the registration of children purchased for adoption or domestic service, and it is suggested that the Registrar General and a Chinese Committee should investigate cases of a suspicious nature with power to call upon "pocket-mothers" to give security for their bona fides towards "pocket-daughters "; also that the Registrar General should be able to apply to a Judge in Chambers for a writ of Habeas Corpus with the view of taking away from improper custodians a purchased child. It is also suggested that stone tablets stating the law of freedom on English soil should be erected in places of public resort.
13. It will be perceived that any infringements by contract or sale of the personal liberty secured by English jurisprudence and custom however in harmony with Chinese jurisprudence and custom, such infringements may be, are null and void in the eye of the law in the English Colony of Hongkong, while any attempts to enforce such contracts or sales would be liable to severe and deterrent punish- ment by the English Courts. Then persistent efforts of the Colonial Government and Legislature during a series of years to protect the personal liberty of every sex and class of the Chinese denizes of this island, cannot be regarded as otherwise than praiseworthy, and, to a large extent, successful. From my personal know- ledge I can bear witness that the Executive Government and the Judicial Bench are now of one mind on this subject.
14. With regard to Mr. RUSSELL'S practical suggestions for further exertions in the same direction, they meet with the hearty concurrence of the present Registrar General and Protector of the Chinese, (Mr. STEWART). They have also been approved by myself and by the Executive Council; and I propose to take the necessary measures for carrying them into execution, subject to Your Lordship's
sanction.
15. In conclusion, I would repeat the remarks made in a previous despatch to the effect that the English in Hongkong are in an utterly different position from that held by the English in India. In the latter country, we succeeded to the rule of great nations and countries which had already long before our arrival, attained to a high degree of civilized organization, and whose laws and institutions we were. bound to respect and maintain, so far as they were not repugnant to humanity and to the imperial policy of England. But the island of Hongkong on the contrary, when annexed to the British Empire in 1843, was merely a barren rock, unin- habited save by a handful of fishermen and pirates. The Chinese Merchants and others who have since voluntarily sought the protection of the English flag are not, with few exceptions, native born, or naturalized British subjects, nor permanent residents in this dependency. The Chinese like the English and other Europeans, come here for a time, to make money, hoping to return ultimately to their native homes. They must be taught as I recently, with all courtesy, informed an in- fluential deputation of the Chinese community, that if they deliberately choose for their own purposes, to dwell on British territory, they must, while entitled to the protection of the English laws, learn to obey those laws.
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
The Right Honourable
THE EARL OF DERBY,
&c.,
&c., &c.
G. F. BOWEN.
1
208
22
Enclosure.
Minute by the Registrar General on Mr. Justice Russell's Report on Child Adoption and Domestic Service among Hongkong Chinese.
Having made independent enquiries into the subject of this Report, and having, in the course of its preparation, discussed its contents with Mr. RUSSELL, I am in a position to say that His Honour's statement of the facts connected with Adoption and Service is correct, and that the method he proposes of dealing in future with this difficult question is the one least free from objection that I think it possible to devise.
When I laid the proposal before the representatives of the Chinese Communi- ty, they accepted it at once, as the best possible method of dealing with suspicious persons who have young girls in their houses either as adopted daughters or as domestic servants; and they further intimated their perfect willingness to assist the Registrar General in his investigation of such cases.
I need hardly say that, personally, I shall be glad to do my best to give effect to the scheme, in the event of its receiving, as I trust it may, the sanction of the Secretary of State.
(Signed)
Hongkong, 14th August, 1883.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Registrar General.
(4)
(C.S.O. 153)
1883
Registrar General to Colonial Secretary.
REGISTRAR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
HONGKONG, 31st August, 1883.
No. 73.
SIR,
I have the honour to inform you that it was reported to me, last week, that WONG A-HO, keeper of Registered Brothel No. 80, had a number of young girls in her private house, No. 233, Hollywood Road, right opposite the brothel. I accordingly sent one of the Inspectors under the "Contagious Diseases Ordinances to the house to ask that the children might be brought to see me. He returned with 17, of whom 14 were girls and 3 were boys.
,,
2. Following the course.recommended by Mr. Justice RUSSELL in his recent report on Child Adoption and Domestic Service, I requested Mr. LEUNG A-ON and Mr. C'HAN KWAN-I, of the Society for the Protection of Women and Children, to sit with me in investigating the case. They were good enough to attend at once, and the result was that we were unanimously of opinion that 11 of the girls, ranging in age from 16 to 7, whom WANG A-HO claimed, had come into her posses- sion by purchase. The other three girls were claimed by servants in the brothel as their own children, and we had no proof that this was not the case.
3. At the close of the investigation I ordered WANG A-HO to find security in $500 for each of the eleven girls that she claimed; and the claimants of the other three security in $200 each. I also directed that the photographs of all the 14 should be brought to me in the course of this week, and I am able to report that that has now been done. I have also directed that the girls shall be brought to this office once a quarter, in order that I may see how they are being treated, and have an opportunity of repeating to them that in this Colony no one can under any circumstances arising out of Adoption or Service deprive them of their personal liberty.
4. I have acted in this matter in my capacity as Protector of Chinese, and probably the urgency of the case sufficiently justifies the course I have taken. I think, however, that it would be well to have legislative authority for such pro- ceedings, and I am at present sketching out a draft of an Ordinance to invest the Registrar General with all necessary powers, and to give persons who may consider themselves aggrieved the right of appeal from his decisions.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
The Honourable W. H., MARSH, C.M.G.,
Colonial Secretary,
FREDERICK STEWART, Registrar General.
See (2.)
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
209
257
(C.S.O. 1233)
No. 83.
SIR,
See (2,)
Enclosure.
23
(5)
Registrar General to Colonial Secretary.
REGISTRAR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
HONGKONG, 13th September, 1883.
With reference to Mr. Justice RUSSELL'S Report of the 18th July last, on Child Adoption and Domestic Service among Hongkong Chinese, (page 8), and to my letter, No. 73, of the 31st ultimo, (C.S.O. No. 2152) regarding the 14 young girls found in No. 233, Hollywood Road. I have the honour to enclose, for the consideration of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, a draft Ordinance conferring on the Registrar General the powers with which I think he should be invested in order to carry out effectually the scheme suggested by Mr. RUSSELL.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
FREDERICK STEWART,
Registrar General.
The Honourable
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY.
Enclosure in Registrar General's Letter No. 83 of 1883.
(In C.S.O. 2293.)
1883
An Ordinance enacted by the Governor of Hong- kong, with the advice of the Legislative Council thereof, for the prevention of abuses connected with Child Adoption and Domestic Service.
WE
HEREAS it is expedient to make further provision for the prevention of adopted female children and female servants from being brought up in the Colony for the purpose of prostitution: Be it enacted by the Governor of Hongkong, with the advice of the Legislative Council thereof, as follows:-
1. It shall be lawful for the Registrar General, as Pro tector of Chinese, to summon before him any person whom he reasonably suspects of having in his custody any adopted daughter, or female servant, between the age of six and sixteen inclusive, with the view of disposing of her as a prostitute; and it shall also be lawful for the Registrar General, in his discretion and after due enquiry, to call on any such person who has the custody of any such female child to give reasonable security that such child shall not be sold, pawned, or otherwise disposed of for any immoral purpose, and that the absence of such child from the Colony shall be duly accounted for.
2. For the better carrying out of the preceding section, it shall be lawful for the Registrar General to require the production before him of any female child under adoption or domestic service; and also to summon any person who can give information as to the treatment of such child by her adopted parents or master, under a penalty not exceed- ing two hundred dollars.
3. It shall be lawful for the Registrar General, in the interests of any female child, to make a written application to a Judge in Chambers for a writ of Habeas Corpus, with the view of taking away such female child from any person who has no legal claim to her custody, and whose retention of her is prejudicial to the child's interest and liberty.'
4. It shall be lawful for any person considering himself aggrieved or affected by any action of the Registrar General under this Ordinance to appeal in a summary way to a Judge in Chambers against any decision which the Regis- trar General may give under this Ordinance; and the Judge may confirm the decision of the Registrar General, or may order in writing the same to be annulled.
5. This Ordinance shall come into opération on a day to be hereafter proclaimed by the Governor.
·
.
210
24
(6)
(Copy.) Hongkong. No. 284. SIR,
Secretary of State to Governor, Sir G. F. Bowen, G.C.M.G.
DOWNING STREET,
29th December, 1883.
I have received and have read with attention and interest your despatch, No. 189, of the 15th August, forwarding a Report by Mr. Justice RUSSELL on the system of Child Adoption and domestic service as it exists in Hongkong.
2. I approve of the course which you propose to take, and I concur with you in your appreciation of the value of Mr. RUSSELL'S labours in preparing this clear and able review of this question, and I have to request you to express to him my sense of the care and attention which he has devoted to the subject.
3. I observe with satisfaction the good which has resulted from the measures already taken to check the evils incidentally connected with this system, and the further safeguards which Mr. RUSSELL suggests may, I think, be wisely adopted.
I have, &c., (Signed)
Governor Sir G. F. BOWEN, G.C.M.G.,
DERBY.
No. 161.
&c.,
fc..
&c.
(7)
Colonial Secretary to Mr. Justice Russell.
COLONIAL SECRETARY'S OFFICE,
SIR,
HONGKONG, 16th February, 1884.
I am directed by His Excellency the Governor to transmit to you, for your information, the annexed copy of a despatch received by the last mail from the Right Honourable the Secretary of State for the Colonies relative to your report on the system of Child adoption and Domestic Service in this Colony.
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
His Honour Mr. Justice RUSSELL,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
J. H. STEWART LOCKHART, Pro. Colonial Secretary.
(C.O.Desp. 284).
(8)
Same as No. 7 to the Registrar General.
(9)
Extract from Minutes of the Executive Council.
19th March, 1884.
The Council advise that these papers should be referred to the Registrar General, and that he should place himself in communication with the Attorney General with a view to drawing up a Bill embodying the recommendations contained in Mr. RUSSELL'S Report.
(Signed)
J. H. STEWART LOCKHART, Acting Clerk of Councils.
""
}
No. 334.
211
SIR,
25
(10).
Colonial Secretary to Registrar General.
COLONIAL SECRETARY'S OFFICE,
HONGKONG, 9th April, 1885.
I have the honour by direction of the Governor to remind you that no answer has been received from you with regard to despatch No. 284 of the 29th December, 1883, from the Secretary of State which was referred to you so far back as March of last year to place yourself in communication with the Attorney General with a view to drawing up a Bill embodying the recommendations of Mr. RUSSELL con- tained in his report on Child adoption and Domestic Service in Hongkong.
His Excellency desires to be furnished with an early report on this subject.
I have, &c.,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Registrar General.
(Signed)
W. H. MARSH,
Colonial Secretary.
(C.S.O. 8285).
No. 38.
SIR,
(11)
Registrar General to Colonial Secretary.
REGISTRAR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
HONGKONG, April 10th, 1885.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter No. 334 of the 9th instant reminding me that no answer has been received from me with regard to Despatch No. 284 of the 29th December, 1883, from the Secretary of State, which was referred to me so far back as March of last year to place myself in com- munication with the Attorney General, with a view to drawing up a Bill embodying the recommendations of Mr. RUSSELL, contained in his report on Child Adoption and Domestic Service in Hongkong.
In reply I have to state that on the 13th September, 1883, I had the honour to forward to you a Draft Bill on the subject in question, and that the same was announced as one of the legislative measures, which would be considered by the Council during last Session.
The Bill was not then proceeded with; and, at the commencement of the See Enclosure 1 in No. 14. present Session, I had it put in type, in order to facilitate its introduction into the
Council.
I enclose a printed copy of the Draft Bill; and am now requested by the Attorney General to state that the Bill is one of which he does not approve.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
FREDERICK STEWART, Registrar General.
The Hon. W. H. MARSH, C.M.G.,
Colonial Secretary.
་་
...
"
212
(Copy.)
No. 243.
MY LORD,
26-
(12)
Governor Sir G. F. Bowen, G.C.M.G., to Secretary of State.
GOVERNMENT HOUSE, HONGKONG, 26th May, 1885. ·
With reference to much previous correspondence on the same subject, and especially to my despatch No. 189 of 1883, (transmitting a Report by Mr. Justice RUSSELL,) and to Your Lordship's reply No. 284 of 1883, I have the honour to submit, for your consideration, the enclosed Bill, "for the prevention of abuses connected with Child Adoption and Domestic Service.'
""
2. This Bill was prepared by the Registrar General, and Proctor of the Chinese (Mr. STEWART) whose letter of explanation is appended. It has been read a first time in the Legislative Council. But, as the Attorney General objects to it for the reasons assigned in the annexed Report, and is inclined to believe that the existing laws on the subject afford sufficient protection, I have thought it right, before proceeding further with this Bill, to submit it for Your Lordship's consider- .ation and instructions.
3. My opinion on this entire question is fully stated in my despatch No. 189 of 1883, to which I beg to refer.
4. I would now add that all men who like myself have had long practical experience in the administration of public affairs will agree with me that, in addi- tion to the obvious general objections to all laws which confer autocratic and inquisitorial powers on individuals, a Ruler or Statesman should consider whether he is always sure of being able to lay his hand on officers to whom such extra- ordinary powers can be safely entrusted. Now no man could be properly entrusted with the powers which the proposed Bill would confer, who does not possess a thorough knowledge of the language, laws, customs, and feelings of the Chinese, and also very peculiar moral qualifications of patience and temper.
棉
77
5. It was a pregnant remark of the late Lord DERBY, when Secretary of State for the Colonies in addressing the first Governor of this Colony, that to the Chinese in Hongkong, the laws and customs of England "would be a rule of action and a measure of right equally unintelligible and vexatious.' The Chinese resident in this island appear to be well satisfied with the present administration of affairs. Looking to this fact and to the exciting events which have of late stirred pro- foundly the entire Chinese nation, I am inclined to the opinion that it would be better (at all events, for the present,) to rest content with the strict execution of the existing laws, rather than to risk the disturbances which might follow from any
mistake or accidental or otherwise, in the exercise of such novel and inquisi- torial powers as those which would be conferred by the proposed Bill. However, I shall await Your Lordship's instructions on this point.
Enclosure 1,
Enclosure 2.
Enclosure 3.
The Right Honourable
THE EARL OF DERBY, K.G.,
&C.,
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
G. F. BOWEN.
&C.,
&c.
י
No. 45.
SIR,
27
Enclosure 1.
A BILL
ENTITLED
An Ordinance for the prevention of abuses connected with Child Adoption and Domestic Service.
WE
HEREAS it is expedient to make further provision for the prevention of adopted female children and female servants from being brought up in the Colony for the purpose of prostitution: Be it enacted by the Governor of Hongkong, with the advice of the Legislative Council thereof, as follows:-
1. It shall be lawful for the Registrar General, as Pro- tector of Chinese, to summon before him any person whom he reasonably suspects of having in his custody any adopted daughter, or female servant, between the age of six and sixteen inclusive, with the view of disposing of her as a prostitute; and it shall also be lawful for the Registrar General, in his discretion and after due inquiry, to call on any such
person who has the custody of any such female child to give reasonable security that such child shall not be sold, pawned, or otherwise disposed of for any immoral purpose, and that the absence of such child from the Colony shall be duly accounted for.
2. For the better carrying out of the preceding section, it shall be lawful for the Registrar General to require the production before him of any female child under adoption or domestic service; and also to summon any person who can give information as to the treatment of such child by her adopted parents or master, under a penalty not exceed- ing two hundred dollars.
3. It shall be lawful for the Registrar General, in the interests of any female child, to make a written application to a Judge in Chambers for a writ of Habeas Corpus, with the view of taking away such female child from any person who has no legal claim to her custody, and whose retention of her is prejudicial to the child's interest and liberty.
4. It shall be lawful for any person considering himself aggrieved or affected by any action of the Registrar General under this Ordinance to appeal in a summary way to a Judge in Chambers against any decision which the Regis- trar General may give under this Ordinance; and the Judge may confirm the decision of the Registrar General, or may order in writing the same to be annulled.
5. This Ordinance shall come into operation on a day to be hereafter proclaimed by the Governor.
213
Enclosure 2.
Letter from the Registrar General.
REGISTRAR GENERAL'S OFFICE,
HONGKONG, May 6th, 1885.
Referring to previous correspondence. in connexion with Child Adoption and Domestic Service, I have the honour to enclose the draft Bill on the subject, that it may be forwarded for the consideration of the Secretary of State for the Colonies.
2. Lord KIMBERLEY on the 18th of March, 1882, in a despatch to Governor Sir J. POPE HENNESSY (See Command Paper 3185 of 1882) called attention, in paragraphs 17, 18, and 19, to the perilous position of adopted children and of children employed in domestic service, and desired that he should be furnished with a report thereon, after a full and trustworthy enquiry into the facts.
3. This work was entrusted to Mr. Justice RUSSELL, then Registrar General and his Report is dated the 18th of July, 1883.
214
28
4. At page 8 of that Report, beginning with the words "The Scheme which T suggest," Mr. RUSSELL indicated the safeguards which in his opinion the position of the children in question required, and the powers which should be given by law to the Registrar General to enable him to give the children the protection which their position demanded.
5. The draft of the Bill now enclosed was carefully revised by Mr. RUSSELL, and I think I may safely assume that, in his opinion, it will, if passed, attain the object for which it is intended. As, however, it may be thought that it gives un- constitutional powers to the Registrar General, His Excellency the Governor will probably desire to consult the Secretary of State, before the measure is further proceeded with. No doubt the powers which the Bill proposes to confer are ex- ceptional, but the circumstances with which it deals are exceptional also.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
The Hon. W. H. MARSH, C.M.G.,
Colonial Secretary.
FREDERICK STEWART, Registrar General.
Enclosure 3.
Report by the Attorney General.
The proposed measure provides that the Registrar General may summon before him any person whom he reasonably suspects of having in his custody any adopted daughter or female servant between the age of 6 and 16 with a view of disposing of her as a prostitute. There is no definition of what should constitute reasonable grounds of suspicion, and I.think the provision confers too much arbi- trary power to be exercised without the safeguard of publicity by the Registrar General.
The measure provides for the summoning of the kind of persons above men- tioned and for calling upon them to give reasonable security against the pawning or selling of the child, but it does not say what shall be done with the person or the child if the security is not forthcoming, and indeed it is difficult to see what could be done in such case.
Section 3 appears to give a very extraordinary power to the Registrar General to interfere with the domestic affairs of the Chinese population and a kind of power which could not possibly be efficiently exercised by a Government department especially as nothing is provided touching what is to be done with a child who has been set free under the provisions of the section.
Section 4 is objectionable as giving the judges duties and powers which are in no proper sense of the word judicial.
May 18th, 1885.
(13)
EDWARD O'MALLEY. Y
Secretary of State to Governor Sir G. F. Bowen, G.C.M.G., Hongkong.
(Copy.) Hongkong. No. 51.
SIR,
DOWNING STREET,
12th September, 1885.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 243, of the 26th of May last, submitting for my consideration a Bill "for the prevention of abuses connected with Child Adoption and Domestic Service," together with a Report by the Attorney General, objecting to the proposed measure on various grounds and suggesting that the existing laws on the subject afford sufficient protection.
215
29
2. In the absence of further and more convincing arguments than those at present before me, I am not prepared to sanction the abandonment of the proposed Ordinance; and I should be glad, if possible, to ascertain the views of some of the leading Chinese in the Colony and of the PO LEUNG KUK in regard to the Bill.
3. The draft Ordinance embodies the suggestions made by Mr. RUSSELL in his Report of 18th July, 1883, (pp. 8 and 9), which were apparently not opposed by the leading Chinese, and were supported by yourself and your Executive Council (as reported in your despatch, No. 189, of 13th August, 1883), and were approved by my predecessor. I am not in possession of any information, which would lead me to suppose that circumstances have altered since 1883, so as to render an Ordi- nance of this kind less necessary or less desirable.
4. The general objection that the Ordinance will put arbitrary powers in the hands of the Registrar General is a serious one; but it may probably be met by making some amendments in the draft.
5. Taking the specific objections which the Attorney General raises in order:— (1.) "There is no definition of what should constitute reasonable grounds
of suspicion."
It would not be impossible to formulate some sort of definition, and before proceeding with the Bill perhaps you will call upon the Attorney General to draw up such a definition, to be embodied
in Section 1.
(2.) "I think the provision confers too much arbitrary power to be.
exercised without the safeguard of publicity by the Registrar General." I would suggest for your consideration that the re- quired safeguard might perhaps be obtained by providing in the Ordinance some means for adopting the proposal made by Mr. RUSSELL in the Report, above referred to, that certain members of the Chinese Society for the Protection of Women and Children should be associated with the Registrar General as a Consulting Committee.
(3.) "It does not say what shall be done with the person or the child if the security is not forthcoming, and indeed it is difficult to see what could be done in such case.'
11
But it appears to me that in that case the child could be taken away from the person, with whom she is living, under the provi- sions of Section 3.
1
•
(4.) In regard to the objection that this section 3 involves too great interference "with the domestic affairs of the Chinese population," I am of opinion that this might be met by the association with the Registrar General of some members of the Chinese Society for the Protection of Women and Children, as above suggested. . Such Association would at the same time solve the difficulty as to "what is to be done with a child who has been set free under the provisions of this section," for the rules of the Society expressly provide for the care and disposition of such children.
6. With regard to the Attorney General's objection to the provisions of Section 4, I am not of opinion that it is of sufficient weight to prevent this section being enacted as part of the Bill.
7. Evils of the kind dealt with in this draft Ordinance should, in my opinion, be opposed by giving strong powers to the Executive; and the abuse of such powers may be prevented by giving the greatest possible publicity to what is done. The desired publicity would to some extent be obtained by associating the Chinese Committee with the Registrar General; and the latter might also be required to make periodical reports to the Governor of all action taken under the Ordinance, which reports might, if thought desirable, be published.
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
FRED. STANLEY.
Governor Sir G. F. BOWEN, G.C.M.G.,
&c,,
&c.,
&c.
216
30
(14)
(Copy.) No. 406.
SIR,
Governor Sir Geo. Bowen, G.C.M.G. to Secretary of State.
GOVERNMENT HOUSE, HONGKONG, 27th October, 1885.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 51, of the 12th September ultimo on the subject of a "Bill for the prevention of abuses con- nected with Child Adoption and Domestic Service," among the Chinese resident in Hongkong.
2. I referred this despatch to the Attorney-General (Mr. O'MALLEY), and now transmit his observations upon it.
3. You state that you would "be glad, if possible, to ascertain the views of some of the leading Chinese in the Colony and of the PO LEUNG KUK in regard to the Bill." I have given directions accordingly to the proper officers, and I will forward their report when I receive it. But, as its preparation will require, pro- bably, some considerable time. I have thought it right not to delay the transmis- sion of the observations of the Attorney General.
4. I would repeat what I said in my daspatch on this subject, No. 243, of the 26th May ultimo, viz., that my opinion on the entire question is fully stated in my despatch No. 189 of 1883, to which I beg to refer.
Enclosure.
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
G. F. BOWEN.
Colonel, The Right Hon. F. STANLEY, M.P.
Enclosure.
Observations by the Attorney-General on the despatch from the Secretary of State,..
No. 51, of September 12th, 1885.
Taking in order the points raised in several clauses of paragraph 5 of the Secretary of State's Despatch No. 51 :—
As to Clause 1, I confess I cannot devise any definition of what should constitute "reasonable suspicion"; but possibly the Registrar General, who is acquainted with the subject, may be able to do so.
As to Clause 2, I do not think that a Consulting Committee of Chinese would furnish any real guarantee of publicity, or any sufficient substitute for it.
As to Clause 3, I do not think my objection on this point has been understood. The child could be taken away; but the question is what is to be done with it; where is it to be kept, or put; who is to have the care of it; and who is to be responsible for its maintenance, &c.
As to Clause 4. This paragraph contains a suggestion by way of answer to the last question which would seem to imply that the Chinese Society for the Pro- tection of Women and Children should be placed by law in loco parentis in respect of such children as are taken under section 3.
There is no clause numbered 5 in the despatch No. 51.
As to Clause 6 I have nothing to add.
As to Clause 7 I beg respectfully entirely to dissent from the notion that either the Association of a Chinese Committee with the Registrar General or a system of periodical reports by the Registrar General would secure the greatest possible publicity or indeed any effectual publicity at all in the working of such provisions as are contained in the draft.
October 26th, 1885.
-
EDWARD O'MALLEY.
No. 1495.
SIR,
217
31
(15)
Colonial Secretary to Registrar General.
COLONIAL SECRETARY'S OFFICE,
HONGKONG, 29th October, 1885.
I am directed by His Excellency the Governor to transmit to you, for your consideration and report, the documents specified in the annexed Schedule.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant, (Signed)
FREDERICK STEWART,
Acting Colonial Secretary.
J. H. STEWART LOCKHART, Esq.,
Acting Registrar General,
&o.,
&e.,
&c.
Enclosure.
Enclosure 1.
Extracts from Secretary of State Despatch, No. 51, of September 12th, 1885, respecting a Bill for the prevention of abuses connected with Child adoption and Domestic Service.
2. In the absence of further and more convincing arguments than those at present before me, I am not prepared to sanction the abandonment of the proposed Ordinance; and I should be glad, if possible, to ascertain the views of some of the leading Chinese in the Colony and of the PO LEUNG KUK in regard to the Bill.
3. The draft Ordinance embodies the suggestions made by Mr. RUSSELL in his Report of 18th July, 1883, (pp. 8 and 9), which were apparently not opposed by the leading Chinese, and were supported by yourself and your Executive Council (as reported in your despatch, No. 189, of 13th August, 1883), and were approved by my predecessor. I am not in possession of any information, which would lead me to suppose that circumstances have altered since 1883, so as to render an Ordi- nance of this kind less necessary or less desirable.
SIR,
(16)
Registrar General to Colonial Secretary.
Registrar General's OFFICE,
HONGKONG, April 17th, 1886.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 29th October last forwarding for my consideration and report an extract from a despatch from the Secretary of State on the subject of the Draft Bill for the prevention of abuses connected with Child Adoption and Domestic Service.
2. In accordance with the instructions of the Secretary of State, I have con- sulted the leading Chinese in the Colony and the Chairman of the Po LEUNG KUK. in regard to the Bill. They are all of opinion that the Bill, with the slight verbal alterations, noted in the copy enclosed herewith, should be introduced at once, as it seems well calculated to help to remedy the evils with which it specially deals and which have in no way so decreased as to render the introduction of such a
measure unnecessary.
3. That the present Bill is much needed and highly desirable the working of this department during the last two years and a half clearly shows. During that period no less than 201 females, varying in age from 1 year to 18 have come under the protection of this office. Most of them have in some way or other been con- nected with brothels, and it is almost certain that, unless they had been rescued they would ultimately have been made to lead a life of shame. At present they are secured in amounts rising from $50 to $500 by a bond, the conditions of which are that the female secured has to present herself at this office once every quarter, that she will be properly brought up, and, when she arrives at the proper age, married. Every effort is also made, and in many instances successfully, to urge the parents or guardians to have the children under their care properly educated.
218
32
4. It may be argued that, in view of the number of girls already under the protection of this, office, the present system is sufficient and that no further legis- lation is necessary.
This argument is fallacious, for not only is there some doubt as to whether the bonds now given could be legally estreated in case of any of their conditions not being fulfilled, but it has also to be borne in mind that these girls, whose proper up-bringing may be said to be guaranteed, have been brought to this office only by the merest accident, the majority of them having been found in houses proceeded against for being unlicensed brothels. There is still a very large class of female children beyond the reach of the law, who it is well known are being reared for purposes of prostitution. To save these poor children from a life of infamy, legislation is absolutely necessary, and I therefore sincerely trust that the Draft Bill will become law. Peculiar evils require
Peculiar evils require special legislation, and the most competent judges, both British and Chinese, are unanimous in their opinion that the Bill as drafted by Dr. STEWART and approved by Mr. Justice RUSSELL will go far to meet the abuses arising from child adoption and domestic service, which at present are free from the control of the law.
5. In conclusion I may mention that I have learned from the Protector of Chinese at Singapore that an Ordinance based on Dr. STEWART's Draft Bill, but more stringent in its terms, has been forwarded by the Singapore Authorities for the consideration of the Secretary of State.
J. H. STEWART LOCKHART, Acting Registrar General.
Enclosure 2.
The Hon. THE ACTING COLONIAL SECRETARY.
Enclosure 1.
A BILL
ENTITLED
An Ordinance for the prevention of abuses connected with Child Adoption and Domestic Service.
"HEREAS it is expedient to make further provision for the prevention of adopted female children and female servants from being brought up in the Colony for the purpose of prostitution: Be it enacted by the Governor of Hongkong, with the advice of the Legislative Council thereof, as follows :-
1. It shall be lawful for the Registrar General, as Pro- tector of Chinese, to summon before him any person whom he reasonably suspects of having in his custody any adopted daughter, or female servant, between the age of six and sixteen inclusive, with the view of disposing of her as a prostitute; and it shall also be lawful for the Registrar General, in his discretion and after due inquiry, to call on any such person who has the custody of any such female child to give reasonable security that such child shall not be sold, pawned, or otherwise disposed of for any immoral purpose, and that the absence of such child from the Colony shall be duly accounted for.
}
2. For the better carrying out of the preceding section, it shall be lawful for the Registrar General to require the production before him of any A female child under Aadoption such or domestic service; and also to summon any person who can give information as to the treatment of such child by her adopted parents or master, under a penalty not exceed ing two hundred dollars.
3. It shall be lawful for the Registrar General, in the interests of any A female child, to make a written application to a Judge in Chambers for a writ of Habeas Corpus, with the view of taking away such female child from any person who has no legal claim to her custody, and whose retention of her is prejudicial to the child's interest and liberty.
4. It shall be lawful for any person considering himself aggrieved or affected by any action of the Registrar General under this Ordinance to appeal in a summary way to a Judge in Chambers against any decision which the Regis- trar General may give under this. Ordinance; and the Judge may confirm the decision of the Registrar General, or may order in writing the same to be annulled.
5. This Ordinance shall come into operation on a day to be hereafter proclaimed by the Governor.
/such
/such
}
28..
Enclosure 2.
STRAITS SETTLEMENTS.
A BILL
INTITULED
An Ordinance to make further provision for the Protection of Women and Girls.
W
HEREAS it is expedient to make further provision
for the protection of women and girls:
It is hereby enacted by the Governor of the Straits Set- tlements with the advice and consent of the Legislative Council thereof as follows:-
1. This Ordinance may be cited as "The Women and Girls' Protection Ordinance 1886.”
2. (1). The Protector or Assistant Protector of Chinese Immigrants at any Settlement (which said Protector .and Assistant Protector are hereinafter included in the term "The Protector") may if he reasonably suspects that any woman has been brought into the Colony for immoral purposes by fraud or misrepresentation or under any false pretence and that from fear ignorance or for any other cause she is unable or unwilling to disclose the true circumstances of the case require any person in whose custody or under whose controul she appears to be to furnish security in a reasonable amount to the satisfaction of the Protector that such woman shall not leave the Settlement in which she then is without the previous consent in writing of the Protector.
(2.). In default of such security being furnished the Pro- tector may by warrant under his hand and seal order that such woman be removed to a place of safety and there de- tained until she can be returned to the place whence she was brought or otherwise proper provision can be made for the protection of her interests and liberty.
3. (1)—The Protector if after due enquiry he is satisfied that any girl is being used far immoral purposes or is being trained for such purposes and that such girl is under the age.
of sixteen years may by warrant under his hand and seal order such girl to be removed to a place of safety and there detained until she attains the age of sixteen years.
(2) A girl found living in a brothel shall be deemed to be a girl who is being trained for immoral purposes.
4. (1)-The Protector shall have full power to sommon any person whom he may have reason to believe can give any information respecting any woman suspected of having been brought into the Colony for immoral purposes by fraud or misrepresentation or under any false pretence or respect- ing any girl suspected of being used or trained for immoral purposes and the person so summoned shall be legally bound to attend at the hour and place in the summons specified and to produce all documents in his custody possession or power relating to such woman or girl and to answer truthfully all questions which the Protector may put to him respecting any such woman or girl or in any way relating to the matter being enquired into.
(2) The Protector shall be deemed to be a public ser- vant within the meaning of the Penal Code and may ad- minister oaths and affirmations to and examine on oath or affirmation any person summoned before him for the pur- poses of this Ordinance.
5. Every warrant purporting to be issued in pursuance of this Ordinance and to be under the hand and seal of the Protector shall be received in evidence in every Court of the Colony without further proof and shall be evidence of the facts therein stated and in all acts done in pursuance of such warrant shall be deemed to have been authorised by law.
6. No order made by the Protector in pursuance of this Ordinance shall be questioned or set aside by any Court but any person who may be aggrieved by any such order may appeal to the Governor in Council whose decision shall be final.
Short title.
Women brought for immoral
purposes by fraud, &c.
Children under sixteen used or trained for immoral purposes.
Protector to have power to summon and examine witnesses.
Warrant to be sufficient authority for detention.
Appeal to Governor in Council.
219
220
Security bond.
Power to make provision for maintaining women and children,
Power of search.
Women and children escaping from
detention may be arrested and persons abetting
escape punished
Rules.
34
7. The security to be given under section one hereof shall be in the form specified in the schedule hereto or in such other form as may for the time being be prescribed by the Governor in Council.
8. It shall be lawful for the Governor in Council out of moneys to be provided by the Legislative Council for that purpose to provide a suitable building or buildings for the purposes of this Ordinance and thereout also to defray the cost of the care maintenance and education of all persons detained under the provisions of this Ordinance..
9. The Protector and any officer of the Chinese Protec- torate generally authorised for that purpose in writing by the Protector shall have power to search any ship house .building or other place where he has reasonable cause to suspect that there is any woman or girl who is or may be liable to be dealt with under the provisions of this Ordi- nance and may remove any such woman or girl to a place of safety to be there detained until her case can be enquired into.
10. (1)-Every person detained under the provisions of this Ordinance shall be subject to such rules and regula- tions as may be made by the Governor in Council and every such person who contrary to such rules and regula- tions leaves any place in which she is detained may be arrested by any Police Officer or by any officer of the Chinese Protectorate and taken back to such place.
(2)-Any person who induces or assists any person de- tained under this Ordinance to leave contrary to such rules and regulations as aforesaid the place in which such person is detained or knowingly harbours any such person shall be liable to a fine not exceeding one hundred dollars or to im- prisonment of either description not exceeding one calendar month or to both fine and imprisonment.
11. (1) The Governor in Council may make and when made revoke add to and alter rules for all or any of the following purposes:-
(i) The manner in which appeals to the Governor in
Council shall be made and conducted.
(ii) The care maintenance and education of women and
girls detained under this Ordinance.
(iii) The manner and conditions in and under which the powers conferred by this Ordinance shall be exercised by the persons on whom such powers are conferred,
(iv) Generally in relation to any matters whether similar or not to those above-mentioned as to which it may be expedient to make rules for carry- ing into effect the objects of this Ordinance.
(2)—Such rules when made shall be published in the Government Gazette and shall thereupon have the force of law and any person disobeying or infringing any such rule shall be liable to a fine not exceeding fifty dollars or to imprisonment of either description not exceeding one month or to both fine and imprisonment.
SCHEDULE.
Know all men by these presents that we
and
are held and firmly bound unto the Queen's Most Excellent Majesty Her Heirs and Successors in the sum of $
to be paid to the Colonial Treasurer for the time being of the Straits Settlements to which payment we bind ourselves and each of us our and each of our heirs executors and administrators firmly by these presents. Sealed with our Seals. Dated this
day of
188
+
Now the condition of this obligation is that if one who is now residing at
shall not quit or be taken without the
or removed from the Settlement of previous permission in writing of the Protector of Chinese Immi- grants [or Assistant Protector of Chinese Immigrants] for the time being then this obligation to be void otherwise to remain in full force and virtue.
Signed sealed and delivered by the above-bounden and
in the presence of
221
SIR,
35-
(17)
Attorney General to Colonial Secretary.
ATTORNEY GENERAL'S CHAMBERS,
25th October, 1886.
1. With reference to the letter of the Acting Registrar General dated the 17th April last on the subject of Child Adoption and Domestic Services which was referred to me for consideration, I have the honour to forward herewith for sub- mission to His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government a Draft Bill for the better protection of
young girls.
2. His Excellency when administering the Government in 1882 had called for a report on this subject from Mr. RUSSELL who was then Registrar General and Protector of Chinese.
3. The further history of this question will be found in the Despatch of His Excellency the Governor dated the 15th August, 1883, transmitting Mr. RUSSELL'S report, and in another Despatch of His Excellency dated the 26th May, 1885, forwarding a Bill which had been prepared by Mr. STEWART then Registrar General, and which had been read a first time in the Legislative Council.
This Bill consisted practically of four Sections, and is annexed to the papers forwarded herewith, the first section of this Bill authorised the Registrar General to summon before him any person whom he reasonably suspected of having in his possession any adopted daughter or female servant between the age of six and sixteen, and it authorised the Registrar General on due enquiry to require from the custodian of the said child security that it should not be sold, pawned or disposed of for any immoral purpose.
For the better carrying out of this Section, Section 2 anthorised the Registrar General to require the production before him of any female child under adoption or domestic service.
And also to summon before him any person who give information touching the treatment of any such child.
By Section 3 the Registrar General could apply to a Judge in Chambers for a writ of Habeas Corpus with a view of taking away any female child from the custody of any one who had no legal right thereto..
Section 4 provided an appeal to the Judge in Chambers from any decision of the Registrar General.
The Attorney General made the following objections to the said Bill :- "The proposed measure provides that the Registrar General may summon before him any person whom he reasonably suspects of having in his custody any adopted daughter or female servant between the age of 6 and 16 with a view of disposing of her as a prostitute. There is no definition of what should constitute reasonable grounds of suspicion, and I think the provision confers too much arbitrary power to be exercised without the safeguard of publicity by the Registrar General.
"The measure provides for the summoning of the kind of persons above men- tioned and for calling upon them to give reasonable security against the pawning or selling of the child, but it does not say what shall be done with the the child if the security is not forthcoming, and indeed it is difficult to see what could be done in such case.
person or
"Section 3 appears to give a very extraordinary power to the Registrar General to interfere with the domestic affairs of the Chinese population, and a kind of power which could not possibly be sufficiently exercised by a Government department especially as nothing is provided touching what is to be done with a child who has been set free under the provisions of the section.
"Section 4 is objectionable as giving the Judges duties and powers which are in no proper sense of the word judicial.'
And the Governor in his despatch of the 26th May, 1885, seems to have admitted the force of some of them. The Secretary of State in his despatch dated the 12th September, 1885, acknowledged the receipt of the Bill and report of the Attorney General.
67
222
36
In paragraph 2 of that despatch he states:
"In the absence of further and more convincing arguments than those at present before me, I am not prepared to sanction the abandonment of the proposed Ordinance; and I should be glad, if possible to ascertain the views of some of the. leading Chinese in the Colony and of the Po LEUNG KUK in regard to the Bill."
He then deals with Mr. O'MALLEY'S objections.
And concludes his despatch with the following paragraph
"Evils of the kind dealt with in this Draft Ordinance should, in my opinion, be opposed by giving strong powers to the executive; and the abuse of such powers may be prevented by giving the greatest possible publicity to what is done. The desired publicity would to some extent be obtained by associating the Chinese Committee with the Registrar General; and the latter might also be required to make periodical reports to the Governor of all action taken under the Ordinance, which reports might, if thought desirable, be published."
This despatch was communicated to Mr. O'MALLEY who submitted the follow- ing observations :-
"Taking in order the points raised in several clauses of paragraph 5 of the Secretary of States Despatch No. 51. As to clause 1 confess I cannot devise any definition of what should constitute reasonable suspicion; but possibly the Registrar General, who is acquainted with the subject, may be able to do.
"As to clause 2 I do not think that a Consulting Committee of Chinese would furnish any real guarantee of publicity, or any sufficient substitute for it.
As to clause 3, I do not think my objection on this point has been under- stood. The child could be taken away; but the question is what is to be done with it; where is it to be kept, or put; who is to have the care of it; and who is to be responsible for its maintenance, &c.
"As to clause 4. This paragraph contains a suggestion by way of answer to the last question who would seem to imply that the Chinese Society for the pro- tection of women and children should be placed by law in loco parentis in respect of such children as are taken under Section 3.
"There is no clause numbered 5 in the despatch No. 51.
"As to clause 6 I have nothing to add.
"As to clause 7 I beg respectfully entirely to dissent from the notion that either the association of a Chinese Committee with the Registrar General or a system of periodical reports by the Registrar General would secure the greatest possible publicity or indeed any effectual publicity at all in the working of such provisions as are contained in the draft.'
These observations appear to have been transmitted to the Secretary of State, but as far as I can learn no answer has been received thereto.
In accordance with the instructions of the Secretary of State the leading Chinese and the Chairman of the PO LEUNG KUK were consulted. The Registrar General in his letter of the 17th April before mentioned reports that they were all of opinion that the Bill with some slight alterations should be introduced at once.
Owing to the late period of the Session at which that letter was received it was not possible to proceed then with this subject.
Mr. O'MALLEY's objections were :---
1. That there was no definition of what should constitute reasonable
grounds of suspicion.
2. That the measure conferred too much arbitrary power to be exercised
by the Registrar General without publicity.
3. That the Bill did not say what should be done with the child.
4. That Section 3 involved too great an interference with the domestic
affair of the Chinese population.
5. That Section 4 was objectionable as giving the Judges duties and
powers which are in no proper sense of the word judicial.
The Secretary of State has dealt with these objections in his despatch, and I have endeavoured as far as possible to meet the view of all concerned.
H
223
37
With respect to the first, after consultation with Mr. LOCKHART I had drafted Section 1 as follows:--
1. Whenever the Registrar General shall have good cause to believe that any female child between the age of six and sixteen years inclusive who
(a.) has been purchased by or is in the custody or under the control of
any registered brothel keeper, or
(b.) is in the service or custody or has been purchased by any woman whose character, calling, or occupation the said Registrar General shall have good cause to believe is immoral, or
(c.) is in the custody or service or has been purchased by any one who
has been convicted of keeping an unregistered brothel, or
(d.) is found in any brothel,
is being trained as, or is intended to be a prostitute,
and whenever any parent shall complain that the other parent who has the custody of their female child between the ages aforesaid wishes to dispose of it for the purposes of prostitution,
and whenever any female child between the ages aforesaid being a servant, shall complain of being maltreated by her master or mistress, it shall be lawful for the said Registrar General by notice in writing to call upon the purchaser, custodian, employer, or parent above mentioned to appear before him on a day to be fixed by the said notice, and to produce before him the said child,
but on further consideration I have in the proposed Bill given the Registrar General power or complaint made that any female child is being trained as a prostitute to summon the custodian of the child before him. It will be altogether in the discretion of the Registrar General to receive or to act on the complaint, and there is no ground to believe that he would take any steps unless reasonably satisfied that his intervention was necessary in the interest of the child.
With respect to the second objection I propose that the Registrar General have all power to associate with himself two members of the PO LEUNG KUK or two Chinese Justices of the Peace and that the Governor should have power to make regulations respecting admission of the public to these inquiries.
The third objection is that the Ordinance did not state what was to be done
with the child.
Section 2 of the proposed Ordinance enacts that the Registrar General shall have power to make an order for the proper custody of the child, or he may leave it with the custodian on security being given for the fulfilment of certain conditions. I am informed that no difficulty will arise on this point as in almost all the cases the child will be left with the custodian on due security being given for the proper care and maintenance of the child.
It is true that this Ordinance does permit a great interference with certain domestic affairs of the Chinese, but the evils attendant on this custom or facility of purchasing female children are great, it is admitted that they should not be tole- rated and in order to put them down stringent measures are required.
The Secretary of State has taken into consideration Mr. O'MALLEY'S fourth and fifth objections.
The Bill which I now submit meets these objections as far as it is possible or advisable so to do, and it carries out the wishes and directions of the Secretary of State as conveyed by the above mentioned despatch.
It is very doubtful whether any of the Bonds which have been given to the Registrar General for the custody of the children are valid I have endeavoured by Section 9 as far as it is possible to cure any defect in them.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Acitng Colonial Secretary.
EDW. J. ACKROYD, Acting Attorney General.
224
38
A BILL
ENTITLED
An Ordinance for the better protection of
WHEREAS is
young
Girls.
HEREAS it is expedient to prevent adopted children and female servants being brought up in the Colony for the purpose of prostitution: Be it enacted by the Governor of Hongkong, with the advice of the Legislative Council thereof, as follows:
-
1. On any complaint being made to the Registrar Ge- neral that any female child between the ages of six and sixteen years is in the custody or under the control of any person in the Colony with the view of being trained or disposed of as a prostitute, it shall be lawful for the Regis- trar General to summon before him such custodian requir- ing at the same time the production of the said child, and to make full inquiry into the said complaint.
2. The Registrar General may associate with him in the said inquiry or two or more Chinese Justices of the Peace or such other Chinese persons as may from time to time be designated by the Governor, and if after due inquiry he is satisfied that the child is being trained as a prostitute, or that it is the intention of the custodian thereof to dispose of the said child as a prostitute, it shall be lawful for the said Registrar General to make an order for the proper custody of the said child, or if the said Registrar General should think fit to leave the said child with the said custodian, and he may require the latter to furnish such security in such an amount, with such sureties as he shall deem fit for the proper care and bringing up of the said child.
The Registrar General may also call upon the said party to furnish him with a photograph of the said child.
3. If any person who has received such notice shall not appear, and produce the said child, and shall not satis- factorily account for such default the Registrar General may sentence the party so making default to a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars, and in default of payment may order that the said partybe imprisoned with or without hard labour for any period not exceeding six months.
4. Whenever the Registrar General shall have reason to believe that any female child under the age of sixteen years has been purchased and brought into the Colony for the purpose of emigration, it shall be lawful for the Registrar General to summon before him the custodian of the said child as provided for by section 1 of this Ordi- nance, and to deal with the case and make such order for the proper custody of the child as the circumstances of the case may require, and in case the said party shall refuse or neglect to obey the said summons, he shall be liable to the penalties mentioned in section 3.
5. It shall be lawful for the Registrar General by notice in writing under his hand, to summon before him any person who he believes can give information respecting any such female child, or its treatment by its adopted parents, custodian or employer, and any person disobeying such notice, and not giving satisfactory reason for such default shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding two hundred dollars or in default thereof to imprisonment with or with- out hard labour for any period not exceeding three months.
6. Whenever the Registrar General shall have reason to believe that any female child between the ages of six and sixteen years is in the custody, power or possession of any person who has no legal right to such custody, and that it is prejudicial to the interests, and liberty of such child that she should continue in the custody of such person, it shall be lawful for the Registrar General to make appli- cation to a Judge in chambers for a writ of Habeas Corpus. On the return of the said writ the said Judge shall make such order respecting the custody, education, and bringing up of the said child, and on such conditions as he shall deem best in the interest of the said child.
7. Any person aggrieved, or affected by any order or certificate of the Registrar General under this Ordinance may within one week from the date of such order, or certificate, appeal in a summary way to a Judge in cham- bers against any such order or certificate.
:
-.39
The said appellant shall give notice in writing to the Registrar General of his intention to appeal, and the said Registrar General shall forthwith transmit to the said Judge the notes of any evidence taken by him, and the reasons for his decision.
The said Judge may upon the receipt of the notes and reasons confirm the said order or certificate, amend or annul the same, or may refer the matter back to the said Registrar General for further evidence, or may order the attendance of the parties before him, and may thereupon make such order as the justice of the case may require.
8. In any case where it shall be made to appear to the Registrar General that any person having furnished security under this Ordinance is not faithfully carrying out or performing the same, it shall be lawful for the Registrar General to call upon the said person and the sureties to shew cause why the said recognizance should not be estreated, and if on hearing the said parties or in their absence if they do not appear, the Registrar General be of opinion that the said bond has not been duly and faithfully performed, or that any of its conditions have not been fulfilled, he shall certify the same to one of the Judges of the Supreme Court, and on written application made to that effect the said Judge may order the said bond to be estreated, or may make such other order as to him shall appear just, and if the said bond be estreated the said Judge shall order that execution do issue forth- with thereon, provided always that it shall be competent for the said Judge before making any order on the said application to require the appearance before him of the parties to the said bond.
9. In any action which may hereafter be entered for the recovery of any sum due on any bond or recognizance which before the coming into operation of this Ordinance has been entered into before the Registrar General with respect to the custody, maintenance or giving in marriage of any female child, it shall not be necessary for the plaintiff in such action to allege or to prove that any consideration was given for the said bond or recognizance, and it shall not be competent for the said defendant to allege in defence that the Registrar General had no authority or power to require such bond from him, or that no consideration was given for the same.
10. It shall be lawful for the Governor in Council to make and when made to alter, amend, or revoke all Rules and Regulations necessary for the efficient working of this Ordinance.
11. The said Rules may provide for the presence at all enquiries to be held by the Registrar General under this Ordinance, of any two or more Chinese Justices of the Peace, they shall also regulate the mode of holding such inquiries and whether the same shall be held in public, or in presence only of the parties interested.
12. The forms contained in the Schedule to this Ordinance shall be the forms to be used when required under this Ordinance.
SCHEDULES.
A.
Notice under Section 1 of Ordinance No.
To A.B. residing at
of 1886.
Whereas complaint has been made to me C.D. Registrar General of this Colony that you the said A.B. have in your custody or under your control a female child between the ages of six and sixteen years which child is being trained as a prostitute.
Now these are to require you the said A.B. to appear before me at my office situate in Queen's Road on
and to produce then and there the said child.
Dated this
Eight hundred and
day of
in the year One thousand
C.D., Registrar General.
Take Notice that if you do not obey this summons you are liable to a penalty not exceeding five hundred Dollars, and in default of paying the said sum to imprisonment not exceeding six months.
225
226
HONGKONG
TO WIT.
and
40
B.
Know all men by these presents that we
A.B.
C.D. E.F.
of
of of
are hereby
jointly and severally bound to Her Majesty, Her Heirs and Successors in the sum of
dollars, for which payment well and truly to be made we do hereby bind ourselves our Executors, Administrators and Assigns firmly by these presents.
day of
in the year
Dated this Whereas E.F. the Registrar General of this Colony has under the provision of Section 3 of Ordinance No. of 1886, this day entrusted to the care of the said A.B. one G.H. a female child.
Now the conditions of the above recognizance are such that if the said A.B. do well and truly (here state conditions) then the above recognizance to be null and void otherwise to remain in full force and effect.
Signature of A.B.
C.D.
E.F.
Taken and subscribed by the said A.B., C.D. and E.F. on the day month and year aforesaid
Before me
Registrar General.
C.
In the matter of Ordinance No.
and
In the complaint of against
of 1886.
To
Whereas complaint has been made to me A.B. Registrar General, for this Colony that one C.D. residing at
had in her
custody (or under her control) a female child between the ages of six and sixteen years with a view of training or disposing of the said child as a prostitute. And whereas the said C.D. having been sum- moned to appear before me and to produce the said child not having appeared or given any satisfactory reason for not doing so, has been sentenced by me to a fine of
and whereas the said C.D. has
not paid the said fine:
These are to require and authorize you the said forthwith to arrest the said C.D. and to convey the said
to the Superintendent of Victoria Gaól, and these are to authorize you the said H.A. Superintendent of the said Gaol to receive the said C.D., and there safely to keep and imprison him (with or with- out hard labour) for the space of
or until the said fine be paid.
Given under my hand this day of thousand Eight hundred and Eighty
in the year One
Registrar General.
To A.B.
D.
IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.
In the matter of Ordinance of 1886, and in the matter of a complaint against one
These are to require you the said A.B. to be and appear before me at my office situate in Queen's Road on
to give informa- tion in the matter of the above complaint respecting the treatment of one C.D. a female child.
And take notice that if you do not attend you are liable to a fine not exceeding two hundred dollars, and in default of payment of the same to be imprisoned for any period not exceeding three months.
Dated this
Registrar General.
233
No.
3
87.
HONGKONG.
CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING THE NOMINATION OF A REPRESENTATIVE TO TAKE PART IN A CONFERENCE TO BE HELD IN LONDON FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSING CERTAIN QUESTIONS OF COMMON INTEREST TO ALL PARTS OF THE EMPIRE.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 7th January, 1887.
(1.)
The Secretary of State for the Colonies to the Officer Administering
the Government of Hongkong.
DOWNING STREET,
HONGKONG
SEPARATE.
SIR,
25th November, 1886.
I have the honour to enclose a copy of a despatch which I have addressed to the Governors of the Colonies under Responsible Government, inviting the Governments of those Colonies to nominate a representative, or representatives, to take part in a Conference which it is proposed to hold next year for the purpose. of discussing certain questions of common interest to all parts of the Empire
It is the wish of Her Majesty's Government that, in the consideration of these questions, the interests of all the Colonies should be duly considered at the Conference; and in the case of any Crown Colony which may not send a special representative, I shall take care that proper provision is made for securing such consideration.
If, however, you are in a position to furnish me with the name of any high officer or leading public man connected with your Colony who is likely to be in London during the spring of next year, I shall be able, should circumstances render it desirable, to arrange for his presence at the Conference on any occasion on which matters specially affecting your Colony are likely to come under discussion.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient humble Servant,
The Officer Administering the Government of
HONGKONG.
(2.)
EDWARD STANHOPE.
The Secretary of State for the Colonies to Governors of Colonies under
1
Responsible Government.
DOWNING STREET,
25th November, 1886.
SIR,
You will no doubt have remarked that in the Queen's Speech on the proro- gation of Parliament, Her Majesty was pleased to refer to Her Colonial and Indian Possessions in the following terms:-"I have observed with much satisfaction the "interest which, in an increasing degree, is evinced by the people of this country "in the welfare of their Colonial and Indian fellow subjects; and I am led to the "conviction that there is on all sides a growing desire to draw closer in every practicable way the bonds which unite the various portions of the Empire. I "have authorised communications to be entered into with the principal Colonial "Governments with a view to the fuller consideration of matters of common "interest."
(4
I
234
2. The communications thus promised with the Colonies have engaged the careful consideration of Her Majesty's Government, and they have come to the conclusion that the Queen should be advised to summon a Conference, to meet in London in the early part of next year, at which representatives of the principal Colonial Governments will be invited to attend for the discussion of those questions which appear more particularly to demand attention at the present time. I request you to inform your Ministers of this proposal, which I am confident will be very satisfactory to them, and to express the hope which I entertain of their cordial co-operation.
3. In the opinion of Her Majesty's Government, the question which is at once urgent and capable of useful consideration at the present time is that of organisation for military defence. The patriotic action of the Colonies in offering contingents of troops to take part in the Egyptian campaign made a deep and lasting impression on the public mind, and was the first practical result of much careful work during recent years. It is a necessity of the case that the measures which have been taken in each Colony, as well for the organisation of the local forces as for the construc- tion of local defensive works, are, to a great extent, not yet fully understood and appreciated in other parts of the Empire. The close and thorough examination of the whole subject of Imperial Defence, which was completed by the Royal Com- mission presided over by the Earl of Carnarvon, has led to the execution of extensive and important defensive works in various parts of the Empire; and the cordial co-operation offered to Her Majesty's Government by the Colonies in carrying out this policy indicates their desire to arrive, so far as may at present be practicable, at a common basis of action. This work is still being actively pressed on with the assistance of a Standing Committee, which is continuously occupied with matters relating to Colonial Defence.
4. Much yet remains to be done; and it is of course unavoidable that secrecy should continue to be observed with regard to many of the defensive measures in progress or in contemplation. The time has, however, now arrived when an attempt may fairly be made to attain to a better understanding as to the system of defence which may be established throughout the Empire. For this purpose an interchange of knowledge as to the state of preparation or as to the capabilities of organisation in each Colony, would lead to a more thorough understanding of their wants and wishes; but whilst Her Majesty's Government would thus be prepared to recommend for the consideration of the Conference certain principles calculated to promote the general defence of the Empire, it is not our intention in calling the Conference to commit either the Imperial Government or any Colony to new projects entailing heavy expenditure, but rather to secure that the sums which may be devoted to this purpose may be utilized to the fullest extent, with complete knowledge of all the conditions of the problem.
5. Second only in importance to this great question is one concerning in a special degree the interests of the Empire in time of peace. The promotion of commercial and social relations by the development of our postal and telegraphic communications could be considered with much advantage by the proposed Con- ference. It is a subject the conditions of which are constantly changing. New requirements come into existence, and new projects are forinulated, every year. It is obviously desirable that the question of Imperial intercommunication should be considered as a whole, in order that the needs of every part of the Empire may, as far as practicable, be provided for, and that suggestions may be obtained from all quarters as to the best means of establishing a complete system of communica- tions without that increased expenditure which. necessarily results from isolated action.
6. Two leading subjects for consideration have been referred to, but it is not impossible that there may be some other important question which in the general opinion of the Colonial Governments might properly and usefully be brought under consideration. But I should deprecate the discussion at the present time of any of the subjects falling within the range of what is known as Political Federation. There has been no expression of Colonial opinion in favour of any steps in that direction; and Her Majesty's Government are of opinion that there would be no advantage in the informal discussion of a very difficult problem before any basis has been accepted by the Government concerned. It might, indeed, be detrimental to the ultimate attainment of a more developed system of united action if a question not yet ripe for practical decision were now to be brought to the test of a formal examination.
?
235
7. The Conference will necessarily be purely consultative, and it will therefore. not be material that the Colonies should have equal or proportional representation upon it. The desire of Her Majesty's Government would rather be that its con- stitution should be sufficiently comprehensive to include, in addition to the Agent- General or other specially deputed representative of each Government, any leading public man who may be at liberty to come to England next year, and may be specially qualified to take a useful part in the deliberations. It will, I think, be convenient that I should preside at the Conference, and I need not say that I "anticipate much advantage to myself and to Her Majesty's Government from the
opportunities of acquiring information which will thus be afforded to me.
8. I will only add, in conclusion, that I am confident that your Government will, as I do, feel deep interest in this first attempt to bring all parts of Her Majesty's Empire into joint deliberation. However modest the commencement may be, results may grow out of it affecting, in a degree which it is at present difficult to appreciate, the interests of the Empire and of the civilised world.
To the Governors of Colonies
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
EDWARD STANHOPE.
under Responsible Government.
P.S.-My own opinion is that the best time for meeting would be the month of April or May, but I should be glad in this matter to be guided by the general opinion of the Colonial Governments.
(3.)
The Officer Administering the Government of Hongkong to the Secretary of State for the Colonies.
SIR,
GOVERNMENT HOUSE, HONGKONG, 31st December, 1886.
I have the honour to acknowledge your Separate Despatch of 25th November last, on the subject of the Conference which it is proposed to hold next year in London, for the purpose of discussing certain questions of common interest to all parts of the Empire. I am asked to furnish you with the name of any High Officer, or leading public man connected with this Colony, who is likely to be in London, during the spring of next year, and who might represent Hongkong, should circumstances render it desirable. I beg to propose the name of Mr. O'MALLEY, the Attorney General, now at home on leave, but as his leave will perhaps have expired before the Conference meets I would submit also the names of Mr. WILLIAM KESWICK, the late senior partner in the firm of Jardine, MATHESON & Co., and Mr. THOMAS JACKSON, the Chief Manager of the Hongkong and Shanghai Bank. Both these gentlemen, who are Members of the Legislative Council, are now at home. They have been long connected with Hongkong as well as the various Coast Ports of China and Japan, and either of them would be able to afford valuable information in all matters relating to the interests of the Colony."
The Right Honourable
E. STANHOPE, M.P.,
&c.,
&c.
&C.,
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
W. H. MARSH.
183
No. 48
1886.
HONGKONG.
CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING DEATHS IN ITALIAN
AND FRENCH CONVENTS.
Presented to the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 10th December, 1886.
Dr. Hartigan to Secretary, Sanitary Board.
HONGKONG, November 24th, 1886.
SIR,
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, No. 223, and inclosures therein referred to.
The latter I have submitted to the authorities of the Italian Convent, and now forward for your perusal, the Very Revd. G. BURGHIGNOLI'S Memorandum thereon.
As to the means of reducing the infant mortality in the Italian Convent, I am of opinion, from observation, that very little, if anything, can be effected in this direction so long as the present system of indiscriminate admission prevails.
By far the greater number of infants are moribund prior to their reception, this condition being the result of previous insanitary surroundings, insufficient or improper food, and general neglect.
I think, that were it possible to divide the infants on admission into two classes, viz.: "healthy and unhealthy," it would be found that as large a proportion of the healthy class survive as is usually found in similar well-managed Institu- tions in Europe.
The report is slightly inaccurate in stating that medical aid "is only requisi- tioned when any of the Sisters or Boarders are sick." I visit all serious cases whether occurring amongst the Community, Boarders, European or Chinese Orphans.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
H. MCCALLUM, Esq.,
Secretary Sanitary Board.
WILLIAM HARTIGAN.
Memorandum by the Very Revd. G. Burghignoli.
HONGKONG, 30th November, 1886.
The large infant mortality in the two Convents is more apparent than real. Such mortality is only confined to infants: the mortality among the inmates of the Convents is very low.
To give the large number of deaths, without giving the larger number of admissions, I think is not fair.
.
From these statistics, one can see that the percentage of saved children is more than 10 per cent. just as in similar Institutions in Europe.
It is not correct to say that "a certain number of the children are received suffering more or less from disease." Almost all are brought in in a hopeless dying state in most of them the marks on their bodies show that they were under some medical treatment, and that they were taken to the Convents, only when they had no more hope to save them. Many die the same day, others in two or three days.
184
It is evident then that they contract the sickness before coming to the Convents.*
Medical assistance would be (in my opinion) of very little or rather of no use, because those children are brought in in a hopeless state, and because Dr. O'BRIEN gave all his attention to those children, and satisfied himself that nothing could
be done.
I looked over the Register of the Italian Convent for the month of October last, I found the number of 50 deaths, as Mr. MACEWEN says, I saw that they are all infants, that 48 were brought in in a hopeless state, that only 2 could be given out to a wet-nurse, but soon were brought back with fever, and they died of the fever contracted out of the Convent.
27
Mr. MCCALLUM says: "the person delivering the child frequently receives a small sum of money for doing so.' Now to prevent all misunderstanding, I wish to say that the small sum of money never exceeds three cents.
G. BURGHIGNOLI,
Pro. Vicar-Apostolic.
RETURNS OF DEATHS AND ADMISSIONS INTO THE ITALIAN CONVENT,
FROM 1880 TO SEPTEMBER, 1886.
Year.
DEATHS IN THE ITALIAN CONVENT.
Total.
PERSONS ADMITTED INTO THE CONVENT.
Total.
1880,
534
1881,
484
1882,
471
1883,
506
10 10 10 5
55
-
CO
596
625
-J
7
21
56
7 548 518 10
85
10 567 675 20
97
1
1
5
610 663
23
1884,
431 66
2*
3
8
510 750
+
17.
2002 N
23
18
NO CO NO &
38
691
28
579
33
746
28
734
27
17
811
1885,
433 85
2*
20
540
603 19
888
28
28
678
1886,
355 78
4
12
449 475 25
20
29
549.
?
Till the end of
September.
5 3,214 522†
10
11
68
3,820 || 4,309 | 121
157
201
4,788
* 1 Sister of Charity and 1 European Orphan.
†These are infants almost all under 5 years, and all brought in in a dying state.
CHILDREN ADMITTED INTO THE FRENCH CONVENT.
In 1880,......
33
1881,.
1882,..
1883,..
926
870
...910
....1107
39
1884,.
1885,
"
""
1886,.
..1025
.....
.... 924
932
Total,.......
....6694
1880.
RETURN OF THE NUMBER OF DEATHS REGISTERED AS OCCURRING IN THE ITALIAN CONVENT, FROM 1ST JANUARY, 1880, TO 30TH NOVEMBER, 1886.
1881.
1882.
1883.
1884.
1885.
1886.
TOTAL OF 6 YEARS
11 MONTHS.
AND 11 MONTHS.
CAUSE
OF
DEATH.
No. under 1 Year.
No. under 10 Years.
No, over 10 Years.
Total.
No. under 1 Year.
No. under 10 Years.
No, over 10 Years.
Total.
No. under 1 Year.
No. under 10 Years.
No. over 10 Years.
Total.
No. under 1 Year.
No. under 10 Years.
No. over 10 Years.
Total.
No. under 1 Year.
No. under 10 Years.
No. over 10 Years.
Total.
No. under 1 Year.
Convulsion,
334
Fever,
72
55
Consumption,.
37
13
Worms,
6
10 10 2 2
339 274 10
...
1
128
66
38
56
54 27
5
8
15
13
88888
284 266
105
269
273
40
86
28
NON C
36
79
73
21
30
10
84
81 39
20
58
32
26
2288
275 243
244
241
273
85
37
122
65
24
3
122
69
21
98
63 49
971
92
47
25
·119
40
69
6
1
7
34
35
No. under 10 Years.
No. over 10 Years.
គដ្ឋមន Total.
:
241
No. under 1 Year.
No. under 10 Years.
No. over 10 Years.
Total.
No. under 1 Year.
No. under 10 Years.
No. over 10 Years.
Grand
Total.
2731,904
20
1 1,925
1
73
448
236
9
693
.115
388
248
44
680
35
166
62
-228
Cold,..
1
2
2
Sores,
16
10
21
12
2
14
;ལ
12
49
19
3
22
5
5
2
1
3
3
1
$94
24
118
Gout,
1
Diarrhoea,
14
11
26 20
5
25
13
6
19
:
28
6
35
20
CA
23
32
32
26
3
31
153
33
191
Weakness,
2
:
3
Dropsy,
1
2
1
.2
2
1
3
1
2
'1
3
1
1
1
1
2
4
1
7
16
Paralysis,.
...
:
Cancer,
1
5
6
1
1
2
3
5
1
2
2
5
7
1
4
19
26
Asthma,
1
1
1
...
1
...
Scrofula,
2
2
1
1
2
2
6
...
Starvation,
7
7
...
...
7
Inflammation of
1
I
the Lungs,
...
...
...
1
***
Dysentery,
...
:
...
Measles,
Cholera,
Inflammation of}
the Kidneys,.)
1
...
...
***
...
...
::
...
...
•
Old Age,
Small Pox,
Heart Disease,
Debility,
Marasmus,
Bronchial Catarrh,|
Total,..
487
'100
9
596
441
98
39
1
1
1
1
1
.1
3
1
1
:
1
...
1
3
...
1
•
...
::
...
020307
1231
:.
:
1
1
...
...
1
1
1
1
1
1
...
1
1
...
...
...
...
:::
1
4
4
...
1
1
1
:
1
1
4
9
548
442
109
16 567 507
97
6
610
431
69
13
513
438
80 17
535
429
108
85
3,921
Registrar General's Office, Hongkong, 26th November, 1886.
15 552 3,175 661
J. H. STEWART LOCKHART, Acting Registrar General.
185
CAUSE
OF
DEATH.
1880.
RETURN OF THE NUMBER OF DEATHS REGISTERED AS OCCURRING IN THE FRENCH CONVENT, FROM 1ST JANUARY, 1880, TO 30TH NOVEMBER, 1886.
1881.
No. under 1
Year.
No. under 10
Years.
No. over 10
Years.
Total.
No. under 1
Year.
No. under 10
Years.
No. over 10
Years.
1882.
1883.
1884.
1885.
1886.
11 MONTHS.
TOTAL OF 6 YEARS.
AND 11 MONTHS,
No. under 1
Year.
No. under 10
Years.
No. over 10
Years.
Total.
No. under 1
Year.
No. under 10
Years.
No. over 10
Years.
Total.
No. under 1
Year.
No. under 10
Years.
No. over 10
Years.
Grand
Total.
Diarrhoea,
124
39
:
163
124
16
:
139
113 17
130 210
13
223
72
· 4
76
Quinsy,
557
557
548
548
613
3
616 658
2
660
745
70
745 669
Co
76
47
11
58
760
105
:
865
669
494
:
Consumption,
21
1
22
2
7 3 12 2
14 3
19
1
12
2
15
5
1
6
6
:
2.:
:
494 4,284
5
4,289
8
...
:.
7
5
12
5
72 17
94
Fever,
37
58
:
95 42
56
2
100
29
73
102
59
104
163
52
60
112
63
55 2
120
110
99
209
392
505
4
901
Languor,
9
10
3
2
10
5
...
.:
...
:..
:
~
2
Ulcer,
1
1
Inflammation,
1
1
:
:
...
...
Dentition,
2
2
Convulsion,
1
1
Dysentery,
...
...
***
...
:
:..
...
...
...
:
...
:
:
...
...
:
Measles,
...
...
:
104
Heart Disease,
Exposure,
Sores,
Tetanus,....
Worms,.
Total,.
:
:
:
:..
:
...
...
:
:
:
:
:
:
...
:
::
...
1
1
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
.
:
1
...
***
...
...
...
:
...
:
...
:
...
...
...
:
:
:.
:..
:..
2
1
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
1
:.
:.
:..
:
:
...
:
:
...
...
2
1
:
:
:
:
...
...
:
:
:.
:
: - ⠀
:
:
...
...
***
...
:
:
:
:
:
...
:
4
11
17
1
1
:
:
-
1
...
1
5
...
5
...
10
...
:
:
1
...
:
...
...
...
...
:
:
:
...
:
...
...
:
:..
:
....
...
...
:
4:
:
:
:
:
:..
:
:
:..
:.
***
2
1
.5
1
...
1
2
2
:
:
...
1
1
1
..
6
6
...
6
...
1
1
1
1
3
1
2
1
:
720 131
1
852 719 .81
10
805 757 107 3
867
928
135
4
1,067
869
69
1 939 802 72
879
660
117
782 5,455 712 24
6,191
Registrar General's Office, Hongkong, 26th November, 1886,
J. H. STEWART LOCKHART, Acting Registrar General.
186
241
No.
87.
HONGKONG.
FURTHER CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING DEATHS IN THE
ITALIAN AND FRENCH CONVENTS.
(In Continuation of No. 43 of 1886.)
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 7th January, 1887.
(1.)
Memo. on Report of the Secretary of the Sanitary Board on the French and Italian Convents.
1. The Report seems a very moderate and reasonable report, and there is only one sentence in it, I am inclined to find fault with, and that, I think, ought to be noticed. In the second last paragraph Mr. McCALLUM, says :-
"It is quite evident that the nursing of the sisters is an utter failure as far as "saving the lives of the infants committed to their care is concerned."
To assert that there has been an "utter failure" is to assert very positively that success to a great or to some extent was possible and ought to have been attained, and that the sisters were so wanting in skill or care as not to be able to accomplish what ought to have been accomplished with skill and care.
Can Mr. MCCALLUM assert as a fact that this success was attainable, that more lives might have been saved than were saved? I do not think he can.
The Sisters who see the children say that they are brought in in such a state that it is a wonder that so many are saved as there are. The same assertion has been made before that the Sisters did not save all they could, and Dr. O'BRIEN gave special attention for some time to all cases received. He satisfied himself that all was done that could be done, that all were saved that could be saved. Most of the children he found suffering from some fatal knotting or twisting of the intestines, the result, apparently, of mismanagement at the moment of birth, or detachment from the mother.
This is a matter that ought to be inquired into, on its own merits, by some sanitary authority, but is outside the present question, the treatment of the children after they get within the Convent walls.
The percentage of children saved in the two Convents, out of the total number brought in, is about the same as the percentage of saved in similar institutions in Europe.
The Sanitary Board might be informed that, if they will appoint a medical man to be in attendance day and night at the Convent for a week or a month to take note of the cases brought in, every facility will be given him, and his directions most carefully attended to in every instance.
گاه
About the defective state of the drainage, dressing, &c., I have nothing to say, only that the Sisters are too poor to go into such expenses.
(Signed)
(2.)
J. BURGHIGNOLI, Pro. Vic.
Report by the Colonial Surgeon.
I have inspected these babies often. The great majority of them are brought in in a moribund condition, or so ill nurtured that they are all but hopeless cases. The great majority are also female children, and all, if not received into the Convents, would be found on the hill sides (as many are already) dead. The greatest possible care and attention are given to them, and I know of nothing better that can be done for them by the Sisters than is done in the Convents.
(Signed) PH. B. C. AYRES,
Colonial Surgeon.
30th November, 1886.
242
(3.)
Further report by the Colonial Surgeon.
The great mortality is not among the children generally, but principally amongst infants received in both Convents. These in most cases are suffering from Trismus when received; a disease caused by exposure to rapid changes of temperature, insufficient clothing and diet, and defective ventilation, such as are to be found in the crowded houses of the lower classes of the Chinese and amongst the boat population. The case of a child when once the attack has well set in is hopeless. This is common in all tropical climates. These infants are received at all hours of the day and night and mostly naked or being wrapped only in a piece of old rag or paper.
I saw one case in the French Convent moribund; it had been received an hour previously. In another case the patient had just died, and had been received only three quarters of an hour. No medical attendance would have been of any service in either case. These were the only cases there at the time of my inspection.
In the Italian Convent were two more cases, both in a hopeless condition for which medical assistance would have been of no avail. If these cases are to have medical attendance, a resident. Medical Officer would be required in both Convents. In St. Kilda, one of the British Islands, this disease carries off 64 per cent. of the children born there. It would be impossible for any medical man to do any good among the Chinese, for nothing would be heard of a case until it was hopeless or dead; and it is not to be wondered at that, considering the condition of the lower classes of Chinese in their houses and boats, so many children die, but that so many live.
30th December, 1886.
(Signed)
PH. B. C. AYRES. Colonial Surgeon.
E
1
HONGKONG.
RETURNS OF SUPERIOR AND SUBORDINATE COURTS FOR 1886.
357
No. 25
87.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 29th April, 1887.
No. 30.
REGISTRY SUPREME COURT,
HONGKONG, 11th February, 1887.
SIR, I have the honour to forward herewith the following Returns :-
With
1. Return of the Establishment for the Blue Book for 1886.
2. Return of Criminal Cases, &c.
3. Return of Civil Cases commenced and tried in 1886:---
In Original Jurisdiction.
In Summary Jurisdiction.
Appeals. Bankruptcy. Admiralty.
4. Return of all Probates and Administrations granted in 1886.
5. Revenue Return.
6. Return of Intestate Estates paid into the Treasury in 1886.
7. Land Office Return.
respect to the Criminal Returns it will be noted that there is a considerable decrease both in the number of cases and in the number of Prisoners tried.
There is a marked increase in the number of adjudication in Bankruptcy in 1886, the figures being 6 in 1885, and 22 in 1886. A large number of the Bankrupts were small Traders or Clerks who took refuge in Bankruptcy for the purpose of avoiding arrest, and obtain a discharge from their liabilities.
In the Revenue Returns the increase is chiefly accounted for by the receipts from Bankruptcy proceedings, Registration of Companies and Fines and Forfeitures.
The other Returns call for no remarks.
The Honourable
THE ACTING COLONIAL SECRETARY.
St.,
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
ALFRED G. WISE,
Acting Registrar.
&c.,
&c.
358
RETURN of CRIMINAL CASES that have been brought under the COGNIZANCE of the SUPREME COURT, during the last Ten Years.
Charges Abandoned.
Postponed.
Number Number
YEAR.
of Cases.
of Persons.
Convicted. Acquitted.
No. of Cases.
No. of Persons.
No. of Cases.
No. of
Persous.
(a.) 1877,
1878,.
(b.) 1879,....
1880,.
127
179
135
39
5
157
216
163
45
148
202
135
91
160:
120
油雞雞
6
8
54
11
13
34
6
6
1881,.
105
154
111
39
4
Total,...................
628
911
664
211
31
36
(c.) 1882,.
124
187
124
38
15
21
1
(d.) 1883,.
91
126
70
26
14
28d
2
1000
3
1884,.
68
101
65.
20
8
16
1885,
91
147
103
22
16
22
(c.) 1886,.
75
107
59
20
16
27€
Ι
Total,........
149
668
421
126
69
114
4.
6
CO
Average of 1st (
1324
423
6/11/
71
125
Period, ...... s
1823
Average of 2nd
Period,.
841
25
13#
22층
894
1333
:
(a.) In this year the Charges abandoned and Postponed are not included in the Grand Total in the published Returns; but they are
added here to make the figure tally.
(b.) 1. Under offence of Breaking into a Dwelling House out of 9 prisoners, 6 only are accounted for, the remaining 3 must have been
acquitted, and have been posted accordingly.
2. Under Murder out of 3 prisoners, 2 only have been accounted for, the 3rd was probably acquitted.
3. Under Unlawfully giving false statement to Registrar General the prisoner although convicted does not appear under the beading,
but the facts appear in a foot note on the Return.
(c.) In one case the recognizance was estreated, this case is included in the total, but not in any other of the above headings. (d.) In one case the recognizance estreated, and one Prisoner committed suicide in the Gaol.
(e.) In one case the recognizance estreated.
INDICTMENTS and INFORMATIONS in the SUPREME COURT of HONGKONG, for the Year 1886.
Including Attempts and Conspiracies to commit the several offences.
Showing how the cases tried in the
Superior Courts ended.
(Each prisoner tried, counted as a separate case ; where a large number of Prisoners have been convicted together, the fact is mentioned in a note.)
Total.
Murder, other than wife or child murder.
Manslaughter.
Attempt at murder.
Murder of wife, Reputed wife,
or Concubine.
Judgment for the Crown,
Judgment for the Prisoner,..
Prisoner found Insane,.
Cases which fell through for want of prosecution or absence of accused, and cases thrown out by the Grand Jury (Attorney General),
Cases postponed,.......
59
(a)
1
2
28
20
(b.)
27
1
Child murder.
Concealment of Birth.
Abortion.
Rape.
Unnatural Crimes.
Other offences against the Person.
Malicious Injuries to Property. Robbery with violence.
Other offences against Property. Miscellaneous offences.
Prædial Larceny.
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
F:
:
107
1 1
(a) The Acting Attorney General accepted the plea of guilty of Manslaughter. (7) Including one who did not appear and whose recognizance was estreated.
:
:
CO
8
1
11
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
42
1
4
4
s
3
:
19
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
24
4
:
65
1883. 1884. 1885. 1886.
COMPARATIVE TABLE showing the NUMBER of OFFENCES, APPREHENSIONS, CONVICTIONS and ACQUITTALS for the last Four Years.
359
The Number of Convictions in the Superior Courts :-
1. For offences against the Person,
2. Prædial Larceny,..
3. For offences against property other than Prædial Larceny,
4. For other offences,
The Number of Persons acquitted :—
SENTENCE.
27
28
56
36
61
~
26
20
22
272 2
16
42
20
1
20
RETURN OF CRIMINAL CASES tried in the SUPREME COURT of HONGKONG, during the
2. In the Superior Courts,
Number of Cases.
Number of Persous.
CRIMES.
1
B
1
1
1
B
Abduction from the Colony for the purpose of steal-
ing money.
Administering stupefying drug,..
Assault and Roblery from the person,...
Assault and wounding with intent to rob,
Assault with intent to commit Buggery. Assault with intent to commit Rape,
Attempting to shoot with intent to resist lawful
apprehension.
1 Bringing into the Colony a woman with intent to sell
her for the purpose of prostitution,
Breaking and entering a dwelling house with intent
to commit a felony,
1
7
13
Burglary and receiving stolen goods,
1
1
Child stealing,
a3
4
2
1
1
Ι
Demanding money with menaces,
Embezzlement.
Embezzlement by a servant,
Forging a certain cheque or order with intent to
defraud,
Larceny.
7 Larceny in a dwelling house with menaces,
3
1
1
Larceny of Post Letter,
1
Larceny from the person,
2 Larceny by a servant,
1
Larceny and previous conviction, Libel,
Manslaughter,
3 Murder,
2
Obtaining goods under false pretences,
4 Obtaining money under false pretences,
Perjury,
Piracy,
3 Receiving stolen property,
2 Robbery and Larceny from the person,
:4。
2
:
wi mi
19
Hi wwwwi -*x
3
2
2
1 11
Robbery and Larceny in a dwelling house,.
3
4
Robbery from the person with violence,
Shooting with intent to prevent apprehension,
T
1
1
Shooting with intent to do grievous bodily harm,.
:
yeur 1886.
CHARGES ABAN-
DONED.
CASES POST-
PONED.
19122-
⠀
:
Unlawfully imprisonment and detention for the pur-
pose of emigration,...
Unlawful possession of counterfeit coin and forged
Bank notes,
Unlawfully and feloniously receiving certain Bank
Notes,
Unlawfully and maliciously wounding,
1 | Wounding with intent to murder.....................
58
90
00
121
59
3
1
:
:
20
20
:
:
:
2
3
3
:
:
:
45
8
79 were tried.
Convicted,. Acquitted,
.10
1
Charges abandoned, Recognizance estreated. Case postponed,
90 Persons.
Of 90 Persons only
10 were not indicted, which are included under the
heading of charges abandoned,
and
1 Recognizance estreated,
:
:
:
1
~
1
-
:
G 16 26
1
1
.59
.20
79 Persons..
26
..
1
::
1
Total......
a. In one case the Prisoner did not appear his recognizance estreated.
b. In one case the Acting Attorney General accepted the plea of guilty of manslaughter.
Registry Supreme Court, Hongkong, 28th January, 1887.
107 Persons.
ALFRED G. WISE,
Acting Registrar.
360
CASES COMMENCED.
JUDGMENT.
Settled or
No.
Jurisdiction. of
Debt and Damages.
withdrawn
Struck out,
before
Cases.
Defend-
Trial. Plaintiff.
ant.
Non- Suit.
Dismissed
and Lapsed Writs.
In Dependency.
TOTAL CASES TRIED.
Cases.
Debt and Damages recovered.
1886.
Original,
64 $308,326.69
6
13
2
41
15
ગ
Summary,
1,331
$153,879.04
523
517
41
159
$5
564
CASES TRIED.
JUDGMENT.
Jurisdiction.
No. of Cases.
Debt and Damages.
Plaintiff. Defendant. Non-Suit.
Struck out, Dismissed & Lapsed Writs.
$152,836.54
$ 67,445.61
Debt and Damages.
1886.
Original,
Summary,
25a
7476
$193,848.86
20
2
I'
2
85,035.71
535
43
162
$170,723.16
71,771.08
a. 10 of these cases were pending on 31st December, 1885.
Registry Supreme Court, Hongkong, 28th January, 1887.
b 21 of these cases were pending on 31st December, 1885.
ALFRED G. WISE,
APPEALS COMMENCED.
Acting Registrar.
JUDGMENT.
No. of Cases.
Pending.
Appellant.
Respondent.
1886.
ча
1
No. of Cases.
1886.
5
1
a. 5 of these cases from Police Magistrates.
Appellant.
APPEALS TRIED.
JUDGMENT.
Pending.
Respondent.
1 6
Registry Supreme Court, Hongkong, 28th January, 1887.
RETURN of ADMIRALTY CASES for 1886.
ALFRED G. WISE, Acting Registrar.
Year.
Entered.
Amount claimed.
Tried.
Judgment for
Amount recovered.
Plaintiff.
Judgment for Defendant.
Pending
Settled out
discontinued. of Court.
1886,
13
$391,094.71 9
Not yet settled.
}
1
Registry Supreme Court, Hongkong, 28th January, 1887,
ALFRED G. WISE,
Acting Registrar.
RETURN of all BANKRUPTCIES filed in the Supreme Court of Hongkong during the year 1886.
361
Official or
Name.
Date of Adjudication.
Petitioner.
Creditor
Debts in Schedule.
Assets.
Amount received by
Official
Total amount of
debts
Assignee.
Assignee.
proved.
J. Manolesen,
Yune Chim,
Secondino Jesus dos Santos,
Leung Fan Ting, †....
Yam Ching,
Ching Kai Hi alias Ching Kau
Foo,
Wong A-mow, ‡.
Shiu Yiu Un alias Shin Kam,
Carlos Jorge da Rocha,
Leong Hoi,
John Wall Jameson and John {
William Croker,
Yiu Shuk Ming alias Yiu Keng
Tong,..
Francisco Luiz Pereira,
....
Yau Lam Chuen, Yim Tseung,
Kwong Yik and Ng Ho, Pang Heung alias Pan Shai
Leung,..
Frederick Hunerfauth,
Chu Kam Tong,
O Kwan Shu,
Ng Ki Kat alias Ng King Shan,
Tam Tak Lim alias Tam
Sheung Kwan,
Lam Kam Chi,
Lai Nin,
15 Jan., 1886
39
8 Mar., 1886
>>
1 April, 1886
7 June, 1886
""
17 June, 1887
1 July, 1886
16 Sept., 1886
Creditors
Bankrupt
* Not including $5,688 net proceeds of Steel Launch in dispute.
Bankrupt
Official 7,869.23
3,598.37
Creditors
(Not proceeded with)
Bankrupt.
Official 31,589.98
15,190.00
7,471.52
22,391.97
12,018.75
3,771.55
97.25
2,587.26
多多
وو
5,860.88
1,235.00
1,342.96
4,033.68
734.21
4,742.17
2,330.21
482.97
173.00
1,563.40
7,452.34
4,772.72
700.50
386.30
122.66
147.58
"
>>
39
""
*10,903.27 | 47,102.81
28 June, 1886
7,243.59
27
29
6,980.13
26.14
201.75
5 July, 1886
901.50
147.50
100.00
505.32
"
5 Aug., 1886 Creditors
Creditors
1,943.36
4,086.73
27 July, 1886 Bankrupt 17 Aug., 1886
Official
5,460.64
1,771.40
3.00
""
510.53 1,153.50
166.00
20.00
37.00
"
7 Sept., 1886
Creditors Bankrupt
(Not proceeded with) Official 6,509.03
6,189.03
2,009.35.
}
22 Nov., 1886
17 Nov., 1886
19,398.05 34,326.18
240.26
372.92
"
16 Dec., 1886
""
31 Dec., 1886
3,356.50 1,323.00
428.88 2,031.13 2,030.24
575.34
15.00
...
+ Bankrupt discharged 30th April, 1886.
Bankrupt discharged 21st October, 1886.
ALFRED G. WISE, Acting Registrar.
RETURN of INTESTATE and BANKRUPT ESTATES and of all JUDICIAL DEPOSITS, paid into the Treasury by the Acting Registrar of the Supreme Court during the year ending 31st December, 1886.
DATE.
ESTATE, CAUSE OR ACCOUNT.
JUDICIAL DEPOSITS.
INTESTATE ESTATES.
BANKRUPT ESTATES.
TOTALS.
April
>
وو
1886.
22
22
Dunnan (Malay),
George Kirby,
Lee Yau,..
Ah Foo,
59.18
59.18
44.70
44.70
13.35
13.35
5.00
5.00
">
Tong Quen,....................
11.54
11.54
"?
""
Amos P. Holt,
4.60
4.60
""
"
John Baptist Spinen,..
1.25
1.25
""
29
Ho A Gow,...............
8.28
8.28
""
Ting Mow,
19.00
19.00
December 11
Frederick Elphick,
2,050.35
2,050.35
14
Henry Reeves,
17.60
17.60
J
وو
"
""
"
"
25
""
Lindoro Rozario,
Sun A Tow, Chey Wali Sam,. H. L. M. Lorentz, Ah Kow,...
Tong Pun,
0.32
0.32
14.65
14.65
11.57
11.57
4.90
4.90
7.31
7.31
15.85
15.85
وو
Leung A Pat,...
Total,.....
0.90
0.90
2,290.35
I hereby certify that the above is a true and correct account, to the best of my knowledge and belief.
2,290.35
ALFRED G. WISE,
Registry Supreme Court, Hongkong, 28th January, 1887.
Aeting Registrar.
362
CALENDAR of PROBATES and ADMINISTRATIONS granted by the Supreme Court of Hongkong, during the year 1886.
Value of the Effects as sworn to, er
Date of Grant.
Name of Testator or Intestate.
Place and Time of Death.
Probate. Administration with Will annexed, or Administration.
Name and Description of the Executor or Administrator.
set forth in the Commis-
sion of Ap- praisement.
1886.
Jan. 11 Alexander Paterson,
England, 10th Mar., 1885, | Adm. with Will Henry Arthur Herbert. Attorney of Ro- |
annexed,
derick Paterson, Peter Rennie, and James Macalister...
2,000.00
11
Thomas Neave.
"
Singapore, 4th Mar., 1882,
Do..
11
Yuen Sing Chun alias Yuen Cheung alias Yuen King Hung.
Thomas Henderson Whitehead, Attor-
ney of Grace Neave.
900.00
Canton, 8th Oct., 1885,
Probate,
""
11
"
""
""
11
Wong Sim,
13
19
William Dolan,
"
14 Albert Edward Salter,
11 Leung Ming Yow alias Leung
Fau Kam,
11|Ng SZ,
Lui Kum Chuen....
11 Cheang Chew Lee,
On board S.S. City of Peking;
H'kong, 13th Nov., 1885, H'kong. H'kong,
H'kong.
3rd Dec., 1885.
H'kong,
10th Dec., 1885,
Do.. Probate.
H'kong,
20th Dec., 1885,
Administration,
Do.,
Do.. 21st Sept.. 1885. | Administration, 22nd Jan., 1879.
Do..
Yuen Li Shi and Yuen Chau Shi, the
executrixes. Ng Shi, the widow and executrix, ac-
cording to the tenor of the Will... Ng Mui, the daughter and executrix, Lui Chau She, the widow. Cheang Chau She, the first lawful wife,. Wong Li Shi, the first lawful wife.. William Henry Ray, sole executor............ Edw. James Ackroyd, Official Adminis- į
trator,
7,000.00
70,000.00
5,000.00
1,000.00
100.00
.300.00
20,000.00
500.00
14 Leung Kong Chi alias Leung
Hin Wa,..
H'kong.
Feb.
1
Fok Cho,
Adolf Frederick Gadd.
1 Cheuk Kiu Pau alias Cheuk Luk, H'kong, 1 George Bunker Glover.
H'kong,
H'kong,
Shanghai,
22nd Sept.. 1868,
19th Jan., 1886,
.Do..
Probate,
Edw. James Ackroyd, Official Adminis-}
trator,
5.000.00
Fok Wa and Au Shi, the executor and
executrix,
1,000.00
1
11
Mak A-po.
H'kong, 24th Jan., 1886,
10tli Jan., 1886, | Administration. 10th Sept., 1885, Probate,
4th Oct., 1885, Adm. with Will
annexed. Administration,
|
Ida Carolina Gadd, the widow, Cheuk Sing, the executor,
200.00
3,500.00.
""
2 Hurdit Singh,
Do.,
2 Robert Strachan......
19
19
8 To Shap Ng....
H'kong.
22nd Jan., 1886,
S George Doo Pitman,
"
9| Frederick John Angier,
10 Adam Hunter,
Do., Probate.
Calcutta, 7th Jan., 1886,
Jamaica, 5th April, 1883, Adm. with Will
annexed.
Probate,
Alfred Parker Stokes, Attorney of Lucy
Happer Glover, Effects and money handed over to Ng A-chun. the first lawful wife on the approval of the Chief Justice, Edw. James Ackroyd, Official Adminis-
trator.
Henry William Davis, Attorney of Isabel Braide Strachan, widow of the de- ceased.
Wai Ping and Lau Wa Yau, the execu- tor and executrix, according to the tenor of the Will.
S.S. Namoa, 16th July. 1885, Administration, Edw. James Ackroyd, Official Adminis-
At Sea, 20th Dec., 1881, Yokohama. 20th Aug., 1885,
5,000.00
10.00
146.00
5,600.00
2,000.00
400.00
trator,
Arthur Gorton Angier, son of the deceased, Agnes Hunter, the widow and sole exe-
600,00
100.00
cutrix,
10 Ho Kit,
10 Lo Hiu,.
Lak Sau, 19th Jan., 1886, Amoy. 19th July, 1885,
""
Do.. Adm. with Will annexed,
Chau Sz, sole executrix.
50.00
Godfrey Cornewall Chester Master, At-
torney of Wu Tsu and Leen Mun,... }
41,000.00
10 Chun Hang alias Chun Lok alias Chun Sung Lai alias Chun Shui Shang,
Lim
Macao,
26th Dec.. 1885,
Probate,
Chun Kit Sun, the executor, according
21,000.00
Mar. | João Jacques Floriano Alvares,
Macao,
20th May, 1885, | Adm. with Will
to the tenor of the Will. Anna Maria Gomes Alvares, the widow,...
35,000.00
8 Leung Yu Sha alias Leong Yee
Sha,
H'kong.
8 Cheong Sam,
H'kong,
8 Vicencia Maria d'Almeida,
Macao,
10th Feb., 1886, 26th Dec., 1885, 22nd Jan., 1886,
annexed, Probate,
Ching Fun, the executor.
10,000.00
Do..
Cho Sing Tong, the executor,
2,500.00
Administration,
Euzebio Florentino de Souza, the admi-
500.00
11
nistrator,
8 Lee Sik. Chuen,
Chow Chi Village.
9 Robert Anderson,
"
12
23
Tsang I,
16th July, 1884,
H'kong. 16th Feb., 1886,
H'kong,
24th Jan., 1886,
Probate,
Administration,
Probate,
Wei Shee, the executrix, according to
the tenor of the Will. Edw. James Ackroyd, Official Adminis-
2,600,00
2,000.00
trator,.
Tsang Siu and Tsang Tin Po, the exe- cutors, according to the tenor of the Will...
10,000,00
26 Antonio Sanches,
H'kong,
22nd Feb., 1886, Administration, Effects handed over to Revd. G. Bur-
10.00
"
ghignoli,
Apr. 1 Elcoterio Villanueva,
H'kong.
1 Li Shui,
??
2:
1 Wong Sau,
1 Leung Ngan,
H'kong.
7th Oct., 1885,
H'kong. 16th Feb., 1886, Wangkong, 16th Jan., 1886,
8th Mar., 1886,
Do..
Do.. Probate.
Alfred Gascoyne Wise, Official Admi-
nistrator,
80.00
Li Chung Shi, the widow,....
206.00
Wong Hing, the executor, according to
the tenor of the Will,
3,300.00
Do..
Ismael Pullay Madar, one of the exe- cutors. Power being reserved to Wong Ham Pong, the other executor,
1,500.00
::
1 Ching Tai, .......
6 John Gerrard,
་་
28 Anthony Field Sampson,
22 Chan Tak alias Sui Fong.
May 4 Choy Pun alias Choy Tun Po,
H'kong,
Canton,
10 Tsui Kwong,
H'kong.
"
10 Wong Lok Chi,
14 Ching Yuk Shing,
,"
19 Albert Edmeades Pirkis,
At Sea, H'kong. London,
H'kong. 25th Feb., 1886, Turriff, Scotland.
25th Dec., 1884,
Tung Kun, 26th Nov., 1885, 13th Mar., 1886, 21st April, 1886,
20th April, 1886, 27th Nov.. 1885, 26th April, 1886, 17th July, 1885,
Administration, | Lo A-kiu, the daughter...
Adm. with Will
1,000.00
annexed, Do., Probate,
Herbert Maurice Bevis, Attorney of
William Whyte, .
70,800.00
Ching A-tsat, the widow,
300.00
·Do.,
John Stewart Nazer. the executor, Choy Tam Shi and Choy Wong Shi, the
executrixes,.
900.00
15,000.00
31 Wong A-sheong,
26 Arthur Wellington Grosvenor,...
26 Low Kum Choong,
June 1 Tuska Moto Odai,
8 Yeung Ah Lo,
England, 13th Oct., 1865,
Sei Heung, 15th Feb., 1886, At Sea, 7th May, 1886, H'kong, 17th May, 1886,
H'kong, 28th May, 1886,
Administration,
Do., Do..
Adm. with Will annexed,
Do..
Chun A-tsat, first lawful wife, Wong Yiu Ting, uncle of the deceased, Leung A-oi, the first lawful wife, Hon. Alfred Lister, Attorney of Stephen Wotton Bushell and Colin Macken- zie Ford,
50.00
50.00
200.00
10,500.00
Victor Hobart Deacon, Attorney of
Administration,
Do., Do..
Eliza Maria Grosvenor, Keung Lai Mooi, the lawful widow, Wong A-sai, uncle of the deceased,. Alfred Gascoyne Wise. Official Admi-Į
nistrator.
179,500.00
2,300.00
400.00
150.00
Do.,
Leung Fuk Tsai, mother of the deceased..
2,500.00
Calendar of PROBATES and ADMINISTRATIONS,—Continued.
363
Date of
Name of Testator or Intestate.
Place and Time of Death.
Grant.
Probate, Administration with Will annexed, or Administration.
Name and Description of the Executor or Administrator.
Value of the Effects as sworn to, cr set forth in the Commis- sion of Ap- praisement.
1886.
June 15 Henry O'Neill.................
At Sea, in the Bay of Ben- gal, 28th Jan., 1886,
Probate,
17 Chau Kum.
H'kong,
2
19 Henry Everall,
17th Feb., 1886, Administration, Shanghai, 20th April, 1886, | Adm. with Will | Alfred Forker Stokes, Attorney of Eliza-
John Yardly Vernon Vernon, the exe- cutor. Power being reserved to Ellen O'Neil, the executrix, Chau Lai Po, the administrator,
13,300.00
3,400.00
annexed,
beth Everall and William Weston Clifford,
1,700,00
23 Wong Tao Leong.
H'kong,
July 9 Joseph Joseph Mooney,
H'kong,
30th Mar., 1886, 30th April, 1886,
9 Roda Singh.
H'kong,
13th June, 1886,
**
12 Wong Tsung,
H'kong,
404
13 Edward Jackson,
Manila,
21 Norman Curtis Stevens
At Sea,
3rd July, 1886,
3rd July, 1886,
22nd Jan., 1884,
Probate, Do.,
Administration,
Probate,
Administration,
Wong Yuk Che, the executor, David Gillies and Robert Lang, the exe-
cutors.
23,000,00
4,000.00
| Alfred Gascoyne Wise, Official Admi-
nistrator,
100.00
Wong Ying, the executor, according to
the tenor of the Will,
4,000.00
Alfred Gascoyne Wise, Official Admi-
nistrator,
450.00
Do.,
**
Alfred Parker Stokes, Attorney of Ellen
Maria Stevens,
29,900.00
23
26 Leung Kwan Shan alias alias Kwong Fo,
Ki
26 Andrew Thomas Carmichael,
::
26 Phillip Robert Doral,
Aug.
4 Reuben Solómon,
5 Francis Bulkeley Johnson,
6 James Twinem,
At Sca,
26 William Whitfield,
London.
Sept. 3 Jamasjec Pestonjee Vakil,
H'kong,
3 | Leang William Afah,.
H'kong,
26th June, 1886,
7th Mar., 1885,
27th April, 1885;
5th Aug., 1886,
Administration,
Adm. with Will annexed, Do..
H'kong, 19th Jan., 1881, Probate,
England. 20th Oct., 1884, | Adm. with Will
annexed, H'koug. 17th July, 1886, | Administration,
H'kong, 7th Dec., 1885, | Adm. with Will
annexed, France,
15th Feb., 1886," Do.,
John Walter, Attorney of Donald Peter
McDonald and John Forrest,...... Alfred Gascoyne Wise. Official Admi-`
nistrator,
Simah Solomon, Attorney of Abraham
Ezra,
John Bell-Irving, Attorney of Sir Robert Jardine, Richard Dawes, Jr., and Jane Sophia Bulkeley Johnson...... Alfred Gascoyne Wise, Official Admi-
nistrator,
Alfred Bulmer Johnson, Attorney ofĮ
George Whitfield.......
Leong Hoi,
1,500.00
8,400.00
600.00
700.00
410,000.00
100.00
22,700.00
Nowrojee Pestonjee Dhalla, Attorney of
7,000.00
Hirabai,
Do.,
Catharina Afah, the widow. Power
being reserved to William Thomas Adnams,
2,100.00
8 Carl G. E. Straublad,
13 George Frederick Pinker,
**
13 William Henry Doyle,
13 Au Yun.
27 Johur Mitchell,.
11
Oct.
1 Chau Mi Loi,
#kong,
At Sea.
H'kong,
H'kong, H'kong,
H'kong, 18th Aug., 1886,
|
Do..
15th Aug., 1886, | Administration,
24th Feb.. 1886, (Adm. de bonis non,
21st July, 1886, | Adm. with Will
annexed, 5th Aug., 1886. | Administration. 2nd July, 1886,
Alfred Gascoyne Wise, Official Admi- |
Alfred Gascoyne Wise, Official Admi- \
nistrator,
Andrew John Leach. Attorney of Anne
Cecilia Doyle,
600.00
nistrator,
5,100.00
600.00
Au Him Kwong and Au Kum Sze, Alfred Gascoyne Wise. Official Admi-
nistrator,
2,900.00
260.00
Probate,
12 James Neilson,
12 John McGourlay.
H'kong, 25th July, 1886, | Administration,
H'kong. 28th July, 1886,
Choa Chee Bee. one of the executors. Power being reserved to Wong A- moong, the other executor. Alfred Gascoyne Wise, Official Admi-
nistrator,
4,500.00
300.00
Do.,
Alfred Gascoyne Wise, Official Admi-
500.00
nistrator,
*
12 Ng Mui,
21
13 | Lau Kwong Ü...............................
15 Rev. John Charles Edge,
"2
25 Chau Nam Hing,
25 Hippolyte Alexander Nicaise,
H'kong, 12th Aug., 1886,·
H'kong, 13th Sept., 1886,
H'kong, 17th Sept., 1886, H'kong, 19th July. 1886, Brussels, 22nd Mar., 1885,
Do.,
Alfred Gascoyne Wise, Official Admi-)
2,300.00
nistrator,
Do.,
Lau Kam Shing, the eldest son of the
deceased,
600.00
27 Vicente Caetano da Rocha,
27 Tse Yee alias Kang Po,
H'kong,
Canton.
33
Nov. 5 Henry Fletcher Hance,
11 Elias David Joseph Ezra,
12 Ho Hing Fai,
15 Wong Kam Mui,
16 François Vincenot,'
"
26 Lo Kwei Kum,
6th Sept., 1880,
1st Oct., 1886,
Amoy, 22nd June, 1886,
Calcutta, 3rd Feb., 1886,
H'kong. 15th Sept., 1886. H'kong, 26th Sept., 1886,
H'kong, 11th Oct., 1886, H'kong, 25th Oct., 1886,
Do., Do.. Adm. with Will annexed,
Probate,
Sarah Ann Edge, widow of the deceased,. Sham Shi, the lawful wife of the deceased, Thomas Henderson Whitehead. Attor- ney of Lucie Marie Caroline Nicaise, sole executrix.
500.00 3,500.00
210,000.00
Do.,
Adm. with Will annexed, Do.,
Administration, Probate,
Levinia Margarida Smith da Rocha, the lawful widow and sole executrix, Tse Ching Kai. the executor, according
to the tenor of the Will. Charlotte Page Hance, the widow andļ
sole executrix,
10,000:00
3,500.00
3,000.00
Do..
Do..
""
Jacob Benjamin Elias, Attorney of Jo-i
seph Elias David Joseph Ezra, He Kwan, otherwise Ho Shun To, Lam Kiu Fung, Ip Lai Kam, and Lai {
Sai Kau, the executrixes, Auguste Raphael Marty, sole executor, Edmund McLeod and George Bayne,
the executors,
125,000.00
200.00
8,000.00
60,000.00
Dec. 3 Joseph Theophilus Chater,
H'kong,
"
15 Manoel José Maria Gonsalves da
Silva,
Macao,
"J
15 Lai Shang Tong alias Lai Tung, | Macao, 20 | Ng A-mui,
H'kong,
21st. Oct., 1886,
21st Oct., 1885, | Administration, 11th Oct., 1885, 12th Aug., 1886,
Do..
Catchick Paul Chater, sole executor,
4,000.00 214,600.00
Do.,
Do..
"
Maria Francisca Marques da Silva,. Yeung A-lai, the administratrix, Property handed to Mr. Ewens, the So- licitor for Chan Choy, the mother
400.00
1,000.00
2,300.00
of deceased,
Registry Supreme Court, Hongkong, 28th January, 1887.
ALFRED G. WISE,
Acting Registrar.
RETURN OF LANDS GRANTED AND SOLD DURING THE YEAR 1886.
364
Number of Grants
Total
under 100 Acres.
Number
County or District.
Number of Number of Grants.
of
Grants,
1886.
Total
Number
of Acres
Wliether
by
Grant
Where Sold, state the Average Price per Acre.
granted,
1886.
or
Purchase.
Acres.
Premium
Acre. per
Rental
per Acre.
of Acres
granted in the Colony.
State the Total Number
State the Total Number
of
Acres sold.
State the
Total Number
of Acres
that remain
uugranted.
A. R. P.
A. R. P.
A. R. P.
Victoria,
Marine 6
3. 1.16
Granted on
$385 to $769
Lease for
999 Years,
Do.,
Do.
3
0. 3. 9
Sold on Lease
$20,299
$698
for
999 Years.
Do.,
Do.
1 27. 0.16
Do.,
Iuland 1920. 3.24
999 Years.
Do.
Granted on
$5 to $884
Lease for
Nominal for
Chinese
Cemetery.
Do.,
Do.,
Do.,
Kanlung,
Do.,
Do.,
Do. 13 18. 3. 03
Marine 2
Do. 4 1. 3.14
Sold on Lease
for
999 Years.
$5,837
Rural
Building I
3. 3.31
88
82.2.31
Granted on
Lease
for 75 Years.
Sold on Lease
for
$523
$192 to $583
$10
1,117, 2. 61
$52 to $119
Do.,
Hunghom,.......
TOTAL,.
1. 1.20
Inland 4
3. 1.14
75 Years.
Granted on
Lense
for 999 Years.
Granted on
Lease
$581
$192
Do. 14
0. 3.341
Do.
21
0. 1. 84
for 75 Years. Sold on Lease
for
75 Years.
Do.
$7,275
$581
$9,932
$525 to $581
88 82. 2,312
88
82.2.312
1,117. 2. 61
All Lands in the Colony are granted on Lease.
at Will. Land for building purposes is made available as circum- The small quantity of Arable Land in the Colony-is hired by Tenants
stances require.
ALFRED G. WISE, Land Officer.
REMARKS.—82 A. 2 R. 314 r. were granted, and 35 A. 1 R. 154 P. were resumed, leaving 47 A. 1 R. 164 r. additional Land granted during the year. Persons having possession of Land or Houses previously to the Treaty, were allowed to retain them on payment of certain assessed rentals, now collected by the Registrar General; and in cases where such Lands or Houses are not leased, the occupiers are considered as Tenants at Will.
A
RETURN of all sums received as REVENUE in the Registry of the Supreme Court during the Year 1886.
Original Jurisdiction,
365
$ 3,704.29
Summary Jurisdiction,
3.197.09
Bankruptcy Jurisdiction,
Probate Jurisdiction....
Official Administrator's Commission,
664.65
748.86
938.68
Official Assignee's Commission,
2,517.88
Official Trustee's Commission,..
247.35
Appraiser's Fees,
531.01
Sheriff's Fees,
173.50
Bailiff's Fees,...
1,078.00
Interest on Deposit of surplus cash,
4,013.29
Fees on Destraints,
1,184.75
Registrar of Companies,
1,982.40
Fine and Forfeitures,
2,000.00
$22,981.75
¡
Land Office Fees,
3,985.00
Registry Supreme Court, Hongkong, 28th January, 1887.
$26,966.75
ALFRED G. WISE, Acting Registrar.
RETURN of all sums collected in the Registry of the Supreme Court for the Year 1886, and paid into the Treasury.
1885.
1886.
REGISTRAR. Court Fees paid by Stamps,
.....$ 9,829.24
$ 9,499.64
OFFICIAL ASSIGNEE.-5 per cent. on amounts encashed paid into the
Treasury,
1,135.43
OFFICIAL ADMINISTRATOR,
847.88
2,517.88
938.68
OFFICIAL TRUSTEE-2 per cent. on amount of Trust on taking over up to $10,000; above $10,000 commission, 1 per cent. on further amount, 1 per cent. commission on income,
935.11
247.35
APPRAISERS OF INTESTATE ESTATES.-2 per cent. on Houses, Land, Goods, Furniture, &c., 1 per cent. on cash, Banking Account or Shares,
181.61
531.01
BAILIFF,
1,157.00
1,078.00
SHERIFF,
184.50
173.50
REGISTRAR OF COMPANIES,
1,037.72
1,982.40
INTEREST on Registrar's balance at the Bank,
4,583.15
4,013.29
FINE AND FORFEITURES,
100.00
2,000.00
$19,991.64
LAND OFFICE FEES,
3,059.00
$22,981.75 3,985.00
TOTAL,........
$23,050.64
$26,966.75
DEPOSITS UNAVAILABLE.—Intestate Estates not claimed,
.$ 374.67
Registry Supreme Court, Hongkong, 28th January, 1887.
$ 2,290.35
ALFRED G. WISE, Acting Registrar.
2
14,611
ΤΟΤΑΙ,
TOTAL NUMBER NUMBER
OF
OF PRISON-
CASES.
ERS.
Convicted
and
Punished.
Discharged.
Committed
for Trial at
the Supreme
Court.
Committed to Prison, or
Detained pending Orders
of I. E. the
Governor.
To keep
the
Peace.
J.
F.
M.
F.
M.
F. M. F.
M. F.
ᎪᏗ .
=
F.
M.
F.
M. F.
M.
F.
M. 1.
16,64712,081 842 2,198 190 157
2
5
84
12
785
88
32
3
168
15,510 1,187|: 5,637 216
82
105
12
903
162
TOTAL MALES AND FEMALES,.
.16,647
Consisting of Offenders not sentenced to Imprisonment.
Abstract of Cases under CoGNIZANCE of the POLICE MAGISTRATES' COURT, during the Year 1886.
CASES, HOW DISPOSED OF, AND THE NUMBER OF MALE AND FEMALE PRISONERS UNDER EACH HEAD.
Ordered to find Security.*
:
WRITS ISSUED BY THE POLICE MAGISTRATES DURING THE YEAR 1886.
Warrants.
Undecided.
Arrest.
Distress.
Search.
For entering Gambling Houses.
Magis- trates'
Orders.
7,117
TOTAL.
366
OFFENCE.
THE CASES CONSISTED OF :-
NO. OF CASES.
No. of
PRI- SONERS.
OFFENCE.
Brought forward,..
367
No. of CASES.
No. of PRI- SONERS.
4,917 6,518
rying:
Animals-Cruelty to..........
Arms-Chinese not Holders of Night Passes found car-
Arson.
Assault-Causing grievous bodily harm,.
80 80
N
83
44
*
2
-Common...
628
ᏚᎼᏎ
**
Larceny-from the Person,
-in a Dwelling House,
-of Beasts or Birds, not the subject of Larceny
at Common Law,
---of Vegetables and Fruits from Gardens and
enclosed places,
122 137
14 43
13
14
3
4
་
-Inciting a person to commit,
-of post letters,
1
1
-Indecent.
4
4
"
Malicious damage to electric or magnetic telegraph,
1
1
-On Police in the Execution of their Duty, and
**
135
158
1
Injury to Property.
42
obstructing and resisting Police,
Manslaughter,
2
With intent to commit rape,..
Ι
1
Markets Ordinance-Breach of,..
372
372
25
With intent to rob...
2
4
:?
With wounding,
1
1:
Medical Practitioner-Practising without a certificate... Menaces-Demanding Money by,
ཡ ཤྲུ ཡ
42
5
1
22
25
when enjoined,
Arrest (without warrant) Refusal of by private persons!
Attempting to commit other Offences (indictable), Banishment-Returning after (see also Conditional
3
3
Mendicancy,
246
246
Misdemeanor-Aiding and Abetting in,
1
1
3
3
Murder,
5
5
17
17
Pardon),
J
Birds-Breach of Ordinance for Preservation of, Births & Deaths-Breach of Ordinance for Registration
3
3
་
3
3
of.
Boat-neglecting to paint legibly the number of licence!
upon each bow and stern of,
20
20
??
Bonfires-Firing Crackers or making,
402
402
Breach of the Peace,
35
39
::
Burglary,
13
"
Night-Found in Dwelling Houses by-with Intent toį
commit Felony therein,
-Noises, by playing at the Game called Chai-Mui, -Noises by Watchmen, &c.,
Nuisances—Allowing Dirt and Filth to remain on Pre-
mises or in immediate Vicinity thereof,
-Blasting Stones to the danger of Persons
and Property, .
-Blowing Whistles,..
-Buildings being in a Ruinous condition,.
34
34
1
3
31
31
ลง
51
10 -
Burial of Chinese Corpse elsewhere than in a Cemetery, Cattle Diseases Ordinance-Breach of,.
7
"
14
14.
-Exploding dynamite to the danger of per-Į
sons and property,.
63
2
A
---Turned loose on Public Ways,......
Chairs and Vehicles-Breach of Ordinance for Street,.. Child-Desertion of,
65
75
1
Child-Exposing, whereby life or health endangered......... Child Stealing.
14
Coin-Offences relating to,
Contempt of Court.
↓
*
Chinese-Territory-Crimes and Offences committed in,..
Conditional Pardon-Breach of,
Contagious Diseases' Ordinance-Offences against
Cutting and Wounding with intent to do grievous bodily
with intent to murder,
with intent to prevent lawful
apprehension,
32
2
49
23
10
*-****** 2
-Exposing Night Soil in the Streets in uncovered Buckets, and in open Boats along the Praya,
105
105
-Hanging wet Clothes, &c., to dry over
121
121
22
Public Ways..
3
32
2
RA
-Keeping Pigs, &c., without a Licence,. -Latrine,
188
188
5
5
-Neglecting to clean out Dust Bins, and
49
throwing Rubbish, &c., into the Streets,
1,277 | 1,277
23
-Neglecting to provide Dust Boxes,
208
208
-Obeying Calls of Nature in the Streets,
49
49
22
harm,
-Regulations-Breach of,
57
57
1
--Rolling barrels,
1
1
-Rough Dressing, &c. of Granite in or near
a Public place,
5
5
Dangerous and Offensive Trades--Carrying on,
Dangerous Goods Ordinance-Breach of,
-Throwing Rubbish into the Harbour or on
the Beach,
108
108
Foreign Ships,
Decoying Persons into or away from the Colony,
Desertion from British Merchant Ships,
H. M.'s Army and Navy,
Disorderly Behaviour-Accompanied with damage to
Dogs-Allowing unmuzzled ferocious, to be at large, &c.,
1
4
-Using Chairs or Vehicles for the conveyance)
of persons infected with small pox,
A
46
46
Obscene pictures-Exposing for sale,
1
93
93
Obstruction of Navigation...
264
264
of Roads and Streets, &c., by Hawkers,
1
1
Property,
-Drunkenness, Fighting, &c.,
Chair Coolies and Shopkeepers..
2,157 | 2,293
1,055
1,723
of Wharves by Boat People,
334
334
|
16
16
Domestic Servants--Misconduct as,.
26
26
"Opium Ordinance-Breach of, &c....
Drugs-Administering.
5
Offensive Weapons-Having Possession of...
Passengers-Carrying in Excess of that allowed by
1
1
701
843
2
Embezzlement,
Licence,
Embracery,
Passes Chinese out at Night without,
463
463
Escape of prisoners-Negligently allowing,
7
Pawnbrokers-Breach of Ordinance for,.
7
7
Excise Officer-Personating,
2
2 Pawning-Illegally,
3
3
Extortion or Attempt to extort,
False Charge-Preferring or giving wilful false evidence,
35
35
Perjury, (see also Preferring false Charge and giving
wilful false Testimony),
13
13
25"
Declaration-making a,
1
Piracy,
4
8
"
Imprisonment,
Police-Rescuing Prisoners from Custody of,
**
Pretences-obtaining Goods and Money by,
49
53
Police Constables-Misconduct as...
46
46
Felons-Receiving and harbouring,
5
Rape.......
1
1
Felony-Accessory before the Fact to,
2
Receiving Stolen Goods,
36
50
-Attempting to commit,
37
37
Recognisances-Breach of..
40
40
Fraud,
1
Riot,
35
35
Furious Driving,
Fraud-Uttering a forged cheque or order with intent
to defraud,
Fugitive Offenders' Act-Offences against,.
Gambling-Breach of Ordinance for Suppression of..
1
Roads and Streets--Injury to...
11
11
.5
5
From the Person with Wounding,
8
8
337
860
Robbery From the Person...
-On the Highways with Arms or with Violence,
Rogues & Vagabonds-As Street Gamblers and Watch- {
7
#
-in the Streets, treated as Obstruction ofļ
Public Ways,
36
36
men to Gamblers,.
536
536
::
!!
-As suspicious Characters..
172
172
Gaols-Breach of Ordinance for,
::
*
!.
-As Vagrants.......
22
22
Harbour Dredging at Anchorage for Ships of War in the,
*
""
Regulations-Breach of...
1
-Wandering abroad and lodging
in the open air,
58
58
Homicide, per infortunium, or by misadventure,
Sanitary Regulations-Breach of,
16
16
House Breaking...
7
12
Scavenging Contract-Breach of,
35
35
Householders and Servants-Breach of Ordinance, for
12
12
Registration of,..
Indecent Exposure of Person by Bathing or otherwise,
30
30
and Lewdness,..
29
5.
22
attend Inquests.
Larceny-Common,
Jurors-Neglecting to answer Coroner's Summonses to
from Ships or Boats in the Harbour...
2
2
***
924 1,025
11
15
Seamen-Refusal of duty by Merchant,
Ships, &c.-Neglecting to have a light on board,. Shooting with intent to do Grievous Bodily Harm.
Spirituous and fermented Liquors-Breach of Ordinance
for retail of,
Stamp Ordinance-Breach of...
Steam Launch Ordinance-Breach of,. Streams-Defiling..
1
2
to Murder......
to prevent lawful apprehension,
Carried forward,.
4.9176.518
3
26
35
1
1
38
38
Carried forward........
|12,524 14,486
368
OFFENCE.
No. of
CASES.
No. of
PRI- SONERS.
OFFENCE.
NO. OF CASES.
No. of
PRI- SONERS.
Brought forward,
12,524 14,486
Brought forward,
Unlicensed-Plying of Boats for Hire,
Streets-Noises by Hawkers,
156
156
**
Trees, &c. Cutting and destroying:
84
84
::
-Seamen's Boarding Houses, -Eating Houses,
14,411 16,420
83
83
4
Trespass on Crown Land,
371
371 Unnatural Offence,..
Triad Society-Being a member of, Turnkeys-Disobeying orders of Superintendent,
Unlawful Possession of Property,
......
261
308
1 Unwholesome Provisions-Exposing for Sale, or bring-
ing into the Colony. Watchmen-Misconduct as Private,
44
14
2
2
:)
of Trees, Shrubs, &c.,
35
Unlicensed-Hawkers,
-Money Changer,
976
35 Weights and Measures--Breach of Ordinance for. 976 Women and Female Children-Breach of Ordinance for
protection of......................
20
20
44
71
Carried forward,..
14,411 16,420
TOTAL....
14,611 16,647
Years.
Total Number of Cases.
Committed
Convicted and Punished.
Discharged.
for Trial at Supreme
Court.
Magistracy, Hongkong, 10th January, 1887.
N. G. MITCHELL-INNES, Acting Police Magistrate,
for the Police Magistrates.
ABSTRACT of CASES brought under COGNIZANCE at the POLICE MAGISTRATES' COURT during a period of Ten Years, from 1st January, 1877, to 31st December, 1886, inclusive.
ĊASES, HOW DISPosed of, and thE NUMBER OF MALE AND FEMALE PRISONERS UNDER EACH HEAD.
Committed to Prison
or detained pending Orders of His Excellency the Governor.
Ordered to find Security.
To keep the Peace,
Punishet for Preferring
Falseharge Undecided.
Total Number
to be of Good Behaviour, and
or giving
to answer any
Charge.
False Testimony.
of Defendants.
3
4
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
M.
F.
M.
F.
M.
F.
M.
F.
M.
F.
M.
F.
M. F.
M.
F.
1877,
9,283 7,336
572
1,966
364
209
15
16
192
17
14
1878,
9,100 7,16€ 628 2,126 251
200
18
11
98
10
1879,
7,009 5,758 361
1,900 189
145
13
18
230
18
1880,
7,098 5,892 252
1,775 .187
170
27
15
204
37
1881
1882,
8,203 7,049 333 7,567 6,049 394 1,922
1,678 173
192
369
34
255
259
263
1883,
1884,
10,653 8,127 670 14,065 11,748 1,088
2,398 349
121
154
62
6
2,294 268
101
228
53
6
1885,
10,281 7,951 849 2,188 258
159
357
99
1886,
14,611 12,081 842
2,198 190
157
869
100
32
20 20 10 10 10 4*
12
9,745 972
19
9,630 922
34
33
8,103 602 8,126
531
53
9,379 630
80
8,622 780
160
105
18
3
168
11,003 1,101
14,517 | 1,418
10,690
15,510 1,137
1,211
Grand Total for Į
the 10 Years,
97,870 79,157 5,989 20,445 |2,484
1,713
152
188
11
2,964
598 176
39
682
31
105,325 9,304
Average per
Year,
9,787.07,915.75989 2,044.5 |248.4
171.3 15.2
18.8
1.1.
296.4
59.8
17.6
3.9
68.2
3.1
10,532.5 | 930.4.
Magistracy, Hongkong, 10th January, 1887.
N. G. MITCHELL-INNES,
Acting Police Magistrate,
for the Police Magistrates.
CORONER'S INQUESTS.
TABLE A.-RETURN OF ALL CORONER'S CASES, 1886.
Very much decomposedTotal.
sex not
ascertainable.
Inquests Held.
Buried without Inquest.
NATIONALITY.
Men. Women. Boys. Girls. Total. Men.. Women. Boys. Girls.
N
:
:
:
:
:
N
108
50
1
61
51
9
172.
:
1
Europeans and Americans,...
11
11
Portuguese,
1
:
1
Chinese,
80
14
-}
~
Indians,..
:
Total..........
336
92
14
7
7
120
Total for 1885,... 69
16
N
3833
53
1
61
51
9
175
8
100
55
4
34
41
10
144
VERDICTS.
TABLE B.-RETURN OF İNQUESTS, 1886.
Europeans and Americans.
Portuguese.
Chinese.
369
Indians.
Total.
Men. Women. Men. Women. Men. Women. Boys. Girls. Meu. | Women.
Accidental death,......
7.
Death caused by landslip,
Do. by burning,
Do. from apoplexy,
1
lo. by hanging,
Do. from concussion of the
brain,
Do. by violence in a scuffle,..
Felo de se,
Found dead,
Do. drowned,、
Murder,..
Manslaughter,
Natural causes,
Do.,
in Gaol,
Overdose of Opium,.
Suicide while of unsound mind,
:
:
31
7
1
*H
51
2
3
1
1
1
:
1
6
2
1
8
4
6
11
1
3
3
10
3
6
5
9
Total,...........
11
1
80
14
TABLE C-RETURN OF BURIALS WITHOUT INQUEST, 1886.
Europeans and Americans.
Chinese.
Reason why no Inquest was held.
No jurisdiction,
No suspicious circumstances,
No evidence and/or decomposedĮ
state of Body..
Total,.......
Men. Women. Men. Women. Boys. Girls.
2
41
1
27
29
34 22
A
Indians.
:
120
Very much de-
Found on Land. Found in Harbour.
composed; Total.
sex not ascertain-
Known.
Un- known.
Known.
able.
Un- known.
1
100
22
60
1
17
74
31
1
42
50
1
61
51
1
9
175
23
Coroner's Office, Hongkong 10th January, 1887.
16
91
A
N. G. MITCHELL-Innes,
Coroner.
59
163
No. 1886.
36
HONGKONG.
DESPATCH RESPECTING THE WITHDRAWAL OF ECCLESIASTICAL
GRANTS IN HONGKONG.
Presented to the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 27th August, 1886.
The Right Honourable Earl Granville, K.G., to the Officer Administering the Government of Hongkong.
(Copy:)
HONGKONG.
No. 90.
SIR,
DOWNING STREET,
2nd July, 1886.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 93, of the 26th of March last, submitting resolution of the Legislative Council in favour of a reconsideration of the decision as to the future withdrawal of the existing Ecclesias- tical Grants in Hongkong.
2. I regret that I am unable to see sufficient reason for such reconsideration, in the fact that both in the Straits Settlements and in Mauritius, proposals for disendowment were at one time under consideration, but were not carried into
effect; for in the case of Hongkong the question was raised in a different manner, and settled by the Secretary of State after a full consideration of all the special
circumstances.
3. I concur in the opinion expressed by Lord DERBY, in his despatch, No. 103, of the 19th of May, 1883, and do not feel myself justified in reversing the decision arrived at by his predecessor.
4. I have also received your despatch, No. 109, of the 2nd of April on this subject, and I will address you separately regarding the arrangements which will have to be made when the present grants cease.
The Officer Administering the Government of
HONGKONG.
I have, &c.,
(Signed), GRANVILLE.
No.
HONGKONG.
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE HEAD MASTER OF THE GOVERNMENT CENTRAL SCHOOL FOR 1886.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 4th February, 1887.
No. 4.
269
12
87.
GOVERNMENT CENTRAL SCHOOL,
HONGKONG, 17th January, 1887.
SIR,-I have the honour to forward the Annual Report on this School for 1886.
1. The total number of boys on the Roll for the past year was 610. Every endeavour is being made to keep the school as full as possible, with a view to having a large number of fairly educated boys to transfer to the new building. With the same object special attention is devoted to the Upper and Middle Sections of the School, some 270 boys; that there may be a goodly number ready to occupy some of the 330 seats in the Upper Section of the New School.
2. To illustrate the condition of the School during the last five years the following table is annexed: -
1
;
1882, 1883,
.....
1884,
1885,
1886,
1882,
1883,
1884,
1885,
1886,
YEAR.
Total Number of Scholars.
Number of
Monthly Enrolment.
Average
School Days.
Maximum.
Minimum.
Daily Attendance.
572
241
443
372
390
556
236
460
378
394
558
236
462
362
411
596
238
499
382
437
610
238
507
419
446
Number
Percentage
of
School
Actual Nott
YEAR.
School Boys Examined.
of Passes.
Fees.
Expenditure.
Average
Expense of each Scholar per Average Daily Attendance.
363
91.18
4,084
10,995.35
28.20
365
96.98
4,121
13,109.51
33.22
379
95.58
4,981
13,378.62
32.48
412
95.38
5,273
12,885.00
29.45
405
94.81
5,422
11,680.41
26.17
1
3. The percentage results of the Prize Examination in English are in Classes IV, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI considerably above the average; the intelligence and special neatness of work in these classes is also a noticeable feature. The results in Classes V and VI in the important subjects of English Grammar and Arithmetic are appalling, both classes failing utterly to evince the least intelli- gent acquaintance, with the work supposed to have been taught in the year. In the Upper School, the fact that the school is in a transitional state is made very apparent by the good results obtained in Class II, and the senior division of Class I, as compared with the poor results in Class III and the junior division of Class I, for on these naturally fell the greater strain in the severer test applied. The total result of the Examination of the School is 94.81 per cent. passed, which is a slightly lower figure than has been attained during the last three years. This is, however, due to the steady, marked, gradual elevation of the standard, year by year with a view to qualifying the scholars for the pursuit of higher studies in the New School; a comparison, based on percentages alone, would therefore convey an erroneous impression, for, with the exception of Classes V and VI, I can conscientiously affirm, that in no year, since my arrival, has the examination given me such unqualified satisfaction, while in- specting the papers.
}
270
4. In spite of the numerous cases of Malarial Fever in the Colony, I am happy to be able to report, that the health of the scholars, in the past year, was quite up to the average, which is a matter for congratulation as our boys come from every part of the town froin East to West Point.
5. In April last two of our old scholars Messrs. CHAN CHING-KAI and LI TSUN-FAN were brought to the Colony by Dr. MEYERS, Superintendent of the "David Manson" Memorial Hospital, Takow in the island of Formosa; under whose instruction, they had been studying for two years, for the
for the pro- fession of European medicine. They underwent a preliminary examination in Materia Medica, Anatomy, Surgery, &c., by a Board composed of Representative Medical Practitioners in the Colony; and received very satisfactory certificates which inscribed on vellum were publicly presented by His Excellency in the Hall of this School.
6. Our Senior Pupil Teacher, Mr. Lo KIT, was a candidate for the Government Scholarship; which was not awarded this year as neither candidate obtained the necessary number of marks. take, however, this opportunity of recording my sense of the great benefits Lo KIT has derived from the course of study; as, too often, the acquirement of the scholarship and the residence in England are the only results that competitors appreciate; whereas, it is not too much to say, that by far the greatest benefits, derived from the establishment of the Scholarship, will always be enjoyed by the unsuccessful candidates, for their number, if this valuable Scholarship were properly contested, must naturally exceed the few distinguished successful Scholars.
7. At the suggestion of Mr. BATEMAN, Head Master of the Hongkong Public School, Hongkong has been made a centre of the Cambridge Local Examination. The first examination was held in December, and though the results cannot be here before May, and I have no reason to be sanguine of their nature, I can already see the benefit of the extra study on our six candidates; five of whom entered for the Junior, and the other for the Senior Examination. It is also worthy of note, as a sign of the interest taken by Chinese parents in their sons' education, that, in no case, was any demur made about paying the seven dollars Entrance Fee.
8. This year, I have instituted a Boys' Self-Supporting Lending Library. Money was advanced to procure books from England. A varied selection of Books for Boys, Novels, Works of History Travel and Biography was made; a committee of the six senior boys was formed to control the Library, which was opened about the middle of October. The subscription was put at ten cents a month, and we have had an average of no less than 74 boys, mostly Chinese, subscribers monthly. We may expect great results in English Composition and in the acquirement of Colloquial English, when our boys find pleasure, in reading English Standard Authors, and in making acquaintance with the customs and conversation of every day English life, as represented in our leading novels.
9. Six pupil teachers have been articled for a period of three years, with a security of one hun- dred dollars each, to provide the six additional Chinese Assistants that will be required in the New School.
10. It was with considerable joy that all masters, boys, and friends of the School read His Excellency's statement at the opening of the Session of the Legislative Council, that the New School would be opened early in 1888. Two-thirds of the walls are already raised, and it is most earnestly to be desired, that no stone should be left unturned to admit of the new building being occupied after Chinese New Year, at the end of February, or early in March, next year. By this means the change would take place at the time of our annual promotions, and a better chance would be afforded for obtaining a full school; besides, the important consideration, of a complete year's study in the new subjects, would be secured.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
To The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
GEO. H. BATESON WRIGHT, M.A.,
Head Master.
Expenditure,
AVERAGE EXPENSE of each SCHOLAR at the CENTRAL SCHOOL during 1886.
Deduct School Fees,
Rent from 3rd Master,
""
Sale of Books,
271
$17,653.53
:
.$5,422.00 540.00
11.12
5,973.12
Total Expense of the School,.
$11,680.41
Average Expense of each Scholar per Number on Roll,
39
"
Average Daily Attendance,
$19.11 26.17
GEO. H. BATESON WRIGHT, M.A., Head Master.
Central School, 17th January, 1887.
ENROLMENT AND ATTENDANCE.
1886.
CENTRAL SCHOOL.
NUMBER
NUMBER
MONTH.
OF
OF
NUMBER
OF
SCHOLARS.
ATTENDANCES.
SCHOOL DAYS.
AVERAGE DAILY ATTENDANCE.
REMARKS.
January, February,
419
6,937
17
408.06
502
2,484
5
496.8
March,
507
13,121
27
485.96
April,
505
7,153
15
476.87
May,
492
11,356
25
454.24
June,
476
10,845
24
451.87
July,
466
12,046
27
446.15
August,..
451
2,204
5
440.8
September,
468
8,970
20
448.5
October,
467
11,031
25
441.24
November,
457
11,019
26
423.81
December,.
432
9,035
22
410.68
106,201
238
Total Number of ATTENDANCES during 1886,................ Number of SCHOOL DAYS during 1886,
Average DAILY ATTENDANCE during 1886,
Total Number of SCHOLARS at this School during 1886,
.106,201
238
446.22
610
GEO. H. BATESON WRIGHT, M.A.,
Head Master.
Central School, 17th January, 1887.
HONGKONG.
THE EDUCATIONAL REPORT FOR 1886.
339
No. 24
87.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency
the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 29th April, 1887.
•
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT,
HONGKONG, 25th March, 1887.
SIR,-I have the honour to forward herewith the Annual Report on Education for the year 1886. 2. The total number of Schools, subject to supervision and annual examination by the Government, amounted, in the year 1886, to 90, as compared with 41 in 1876, and 16 in 1866. The total number of scholars, enrolled in Schools subject to Government supervision and examination, amounted to 5,844 in the year 1886, as compared with 2,922 scholars in the year 1876, and 1,870 scholars in the year. 1866. It appears therefore that both the number of Schools under Government supervision in the Colony and the number of scholars attending such Schools have been doubled every decade since 1866. 3. Since the autumn of the year 1884, when, in consequence of local disturbances, the attendance in all the Chinese Schools suddenly fell off and many children were, in a panic, removed from the Colony to their homes on the mainland, the annual increase of Schools and scholars has come to a standstill. A fresh panic occurred in spring 1886 when, in consequence of an idle rumour to the effect that the Schools under Government were required to furnish a number of boys and girls to be buried alive in the tunnel of the Taitam water works, as the success of those works depended upon such a human sacrifice, most of the Chinese Grant-in-Aid Schools in the centre of the town were emptied of scholars for several days, until a proclamation of the Registrar General allayed the excitement. The fact that such a silly rumour found credence with numbers of Chinese mothers, is a striking evidence of the lamentably low state of female education in the Colony. Previous to the year 1885 there was, year by year, a steady annual increase observable in the number of Schools and scholars. This increase amounted, on an average; to 6 Schools and 472 scholars every year. But although the population has to all appearance continued to increase year by year, and 5 new Schools were started in 1886 (balanced unfortunately by an equal number of Schools which had to be closed), the previous annual increase of Schools and scholars has come to a standstill since 1884, as the subjoined table will show in detail.
TABLE shewing INCREASE and DECREASE of SCHOOLS and SCHOLARS under Government Supervision.
1879, 1880,
1881,
1882,
1883,
1884,
1885,
1886,
Years.
Increase of
Decrease of
Schools.
Scholars.
Schools.
Scholars.
Schools.
Scholars.
50
3,460
63
3,886
72
4,372
80
5,182
87
5,597
90
5,885
.90
90
5,833 5,844
379813
308 426
486
810
415
388
10
52
4. Of the above mentioned 5,844 children, attending Schools under Government supervision in 1886, as many as 3,951 were placed by their parents in Missionary Grant-in-Aid Schools where they received a Christian education, whilst 1,893 children attended the Government Schools. Of the latter number, 610 attended the Government Central School, 910 attended the outside Schools in town and villages, kept by the Government, and 382 children were under instruction in the small Village Schools kept by natives and aided by the Government (by a monthly grant). Details will be found in Tables I and II appended to this Report.
340
5. The expenses incurred by the Government, during the year 1886, on account of education in general, amounted (including the expenses connected with the Government Scholarship) to a total of $43,085.50 or $7.37 per head. The following details may be of interest. On the Central School · with 610 scholars, the Government expended (apart from cost of buildings and repairs) the sum of $11,680.41 or $19.11 per head. The expenses of the other Government Schools, including the Aided Schools, amounted to $8,454.17 for 1,283 scholars or $6.59 per head. The Grant-in-Aid Schools with 3,951 scholars, cost the Government $14,324.76 or $3.62 per head. Further details will be found in Tables IV and XIII appended to this Report.
6. In addition to the above mentioned 5,844 scholars attending 90 Schools under Government supervision, there were, during the year 1886, according to a census taken by the District Watchmen, as many as 106 Schools (including also Night Schools) at work in town and villages, attended by 2,038 scholars. There were also about 180 scholars under instruction in 5 private European Schools. The total of scholars under instruction in Schools of all classes amounted, therefore, to 8,062 scholars distributed over 201 Schools. As the estimated population of the Colony now numbers about 181,702 souls, there were therefore 4.43 per cent. of the population enrolled in Schools of all classes. This does not favourably compare with the educational condition of England and Wales where 13 per cent. nor even with Ireland where 9 per cent. of the population attend School. But it is to be considered that we have here neither a Compulsory Education Act, nor any law providing adequate school accommodation in proportion to the population, and that a considerable proportion of the Chinese people residing in the Colony do not keep their families here but leave them on the mainland. Comparing the number of children of legal school-age (5-13 years) in England and Wales and in Ireland with the number actually in attendance, we find that in England and Wales somewhat over one half, and in Ireland less than one half, of those children who ought to attend school, actually come under instruction. Here in Hongkong we have no exact data to ascertain the number of children in the Colony who are of the local school-age (6-16 years). By a rough but rather high estimate (See Table XVI), I calculate that there were, during the year 1886, about 18,200 children in the Colony, who were from 6 to 16 years of age. Hence we see, as there were 8,062 children actually under instruction, that the pro- portion of children, who actually attend school, to those who are of the proper school-age, was in Hongkong, as in Ireland, somewhat less than one half. The difference, however, is this that in Ireland accommodation is provided in the National Schools for nearly the whole number of children of the legal school-age, whilst in Hongkong, the accommodation provided falls short of the requirements of actual attendance. All our Schools are overcrowded whilst there remain about 10,138 uneducated children unprovided for. I believe there would be no difficulty in inducing about one third or possibly even one half of that number to attend school by simply providing the requisite school accommodation (and teaching staff) at the expense of the Government, though the other half would probably continue to be kept from school by stress of poverty. The majority of those 10,138 children remaining uneducated are, I believe, Chinese girls, and one of the principal causes of their remaining uneducated, year by year, is the fact that the school accommodation hitherto provided by the Government Schools and Grant-in-Aid Schools is still far below the requirements of the case.
7. The proportion of girls to boys under instruction in the Schools of the Colony continues to improve from year to year slowly but steadily. That this gradual advance of female education in the Colony is entirely the result of the successful working of the Grant-in-Aid Scheme and under it due to the alacrity and continued energy with which the several Missionary Societies develop that Scheme, will be seen from the subjoined Comparative Table.
COMPARATIVE TABLE shewing the growth of GRANT-IN-AID SCHOOLS and GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS in relation to the proportion of boys and girls under instruction.
Grant-in-Aid Schools.
Government Schools (including Aided Schools.)
Year.
Number of Schools.
Number of Scholars.
Year.
Boys.
Girls. Total.
Number of Schools.
Number of Scholars.
Boys. Girls. Total.
1873,
6
309
133
442
1873,
30
1,667
171
1,838
1874,
9
406
226
632
1874,
30
1,759
172
1,931
1875,
9
430
249
679
1875,
30
1,747
180
1,927
1876,
11
441
310
751
1876,
30
1,938
233
2,171
1877,
14
629
367
996
1877,
30
1,891
257
2,148
>
1878,
17
678
343 1,021
1878,
30
1,866
235
2,101
1879,
19
986
431
1,417
1879,
31
1,864
179
2,043
1880,
27
1,247
561
1,808
1880,
36
1,940
138
2,078
1881,
37
1,498
739 2,237
1881,
35
1,866
120
1,986
1882,
41
1,937
1,131
3,068
1882,
39
2,001
110
2,114
1883,
48
2,157 1,360 3,517
1883,
39
1,963
117
2,080
1884,
55
1885,
1886,
56
2,373 1,534 3,907 1884, 55 2,455 1,586 4,041 2,370 1,581 3,951
35
1,865
113
1,978
1885,
35
1,874
114
1,803
1886,
34
1,791
102
1,893
341
From the above Table we see that in the Grant-in-Aid Schools the proportion of girls to boys has been steadily improving since 1873, and that in these Schools the girls form now nearly one half of the whole number of children in school. But although in the Grant-in-Aid Schools the normal proportion of girls and boys will in all probability be reached in a few years, the case is very different in the other Schools of the Colony. Whilst in the Grant-in-Aid Schools the proportion of girls to boys is nearly 1 to 2, it is in the Government Schools like 1 to 18. Taking further into consideration all the known private Schools in the Colony, I find there are altogether 2,138 boys and 80 girls reported as having attended private Schools, not under the supervision of the Government. Accordingly we had, in the year 1886, altogether as many as 6,299 boys and only 1,763 girls under instruction in Schools of all classes, whilst it is pretty certain that there are nearly as many girls of the proper school-age in the Colony as there are boys. The needs of female education require therefore an extension of school accommodation. There is no room to doubt that the Grant-in-Aid Scheme, though expanding its sphere rather slowly, will gradually succeed in supplying the actual demands of female education in the Colony so far as the mass of the Chinese population is concerned. But as regards Schools for European children, whose education requires a more expensive staff and costly house accommodation, the Grant-in-Aid Scheme does not possess the same capabilities, because the demand of such special education, though urgent, is small and hedged in by various difficulties.
8. The results of the annual examination of the Schools under the supervision of the Government will be found detailed in the Tables appended to this Report, and, as far as the Government Central School is concerned, in the Report of its Headmaster, which will be found below. A few supplementary statistical details and general observations regarding the principal Schools and Classes of Schools may be of interest.
9. The Government Central School was examined on the principles adopted several years ago and stated in former reports. The examination papers were set by the Headmaster and revised by myself. The papers of the scholars were corrected and marked by the Headmaster and then forwarded to me to form an independent opinion thereon. With the exception of the marks allotted in the case of reading and in the case of all the subjects of the Anglo-Chinese Classes, (when the Headmaster noted results in consultation with myself), the subjoined Tables exhibit the results of the examination according to the Headmaster's own valuation of the merits of each paper.
GOVERNMENT CENTRAL SCHOOL-NUMBER of Boys PASSED in EACH SUBJECT in 1886.
Class.
Total No.
Examined.
Passed.
I..........
II.,.
မင်း
35
29
31
30
27
29
III.,
24
18
IV.
42
42
# 1 to ∞ Reading..
22
Dictation.
17 18
24
26
23
23
17
30
35
39
38
41
* 1 10 83
22
20
30
25
25
35
32
26
19
16
24
19
40
38
Arithmetic.
English.
English into
Chinese.
Chinese into
Grammar.
8333
Geography.
Map-drawing.
03 13 No 2 Composition.
29
21
19 14
20
11
14
28
a
28 23 13
17
17
18
History.
Euclid.
Algebra.
Mensuration.
Intelligence.
General
35
VI.,
29
VII.,
37
VIII., ....
39
IX.,
63
X.........
47
+ 8 & 0 No co
33
26
37
39
62
47
i o co 2 13 63
33
33
17
27
13
37
36
39
.39
61
62
47. 44
08 o to co
31
28
51
a co o to No
29
28
32
39
38
43
83 28 8 8 8
33
22
32
29
21
30
36
23
35
32
36
36
co & to con
32
26
35
38
60
59
.
Writing.
33
41
XI.,...... 24
24
24
23
21
14 24
23
:
:
:
:
:
:
:.
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:.
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
Total,... 405 384 391
332 277 340
357 266 207 249 119 60 81 41
17
43
I.,
342
Class.
Examined.
Total No.
GOVERNMENT CENTRAL SCHOOL-PERCENTAGE of PASSES in EACH SUBJECT in 1886.
30
90.00 96.77 | 83.33
III.,
24 75.00 91.66 37.50
I.,
II.,
35
82.85 88.57 48.57 51.42 68.57| 85.71 71.42 71.42 100,00 91.42 80.00 65.71 37.14 48.57 48.57
76.66 76.66| 86.66 63.33 55.17| 80.00 96.66 | 72.41 64.82 46.66
37.50 70.83 91.66 83.33 37.50| 79.16| 83.33 | 45.83 45.83 58.33
60.00
33.34
IV.,
42
V.
35
..
VI.,
VII.,
VIII.,
2225
(100.00 97.61 | 71.42
83.33 92.85 90.47 97.61| 78.57 95.23| 90.47
94.28 94.28 94.28
48.57 82.85|94.28 62.84 91.42 91.42
29
89.65 93.10 44.83
20.68 96.55|100.00| 27.58 72.41| 89.65
37
....
IX.,
X.,
XI.,
47
24
63 98.41 96.82 98.41
100.00 100.00 | 93.61
100.00 100.00 95.83
80.94 82.53 95.2390.64
Writing.
80.84 91.48 70.21| 97.23
87.50 58.33 100.00 95.83
......
100.00 100.00 97.96 83.78 86.48 | 81.08| 97.96 95.25 95.25
39 100.00 100.00 100.00
888888
71.79 100.00 82.05| 92.30|92.30| 97.43
:
:
:
:
:
:.
:
:
:
:
:.
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
66.66
:
:
:
:
:.
:
:
:
:
.:.
II.,.
III.,
IV.,
III.,
IV.,
V.,
VI.,
Total,... 405
94.81 96.54 81.72 68.39| 83.95| 88.14 79.64 76.38 91.84 90.84 67.41 61.83 46.06 48.57 48.31
GOVERNMENT CENTRAL SCHOOL-PERCENTAGE of PASSES in EACH SUBJECT in 1886.
Anglo-Chinese Examination.
Total
Divisions.
Total No. Examined.
Copy Writing.
Reading. Dictation.
Transla- Chinese Percentage
tion. Characters. of
Passes.
15
73.33
73.33
53.33
53.33
80.00
10
100.00
90.00
90.00
80.00
70.00
90.00
7
100.00
57.14
57.14
57.14
71.42
57.14
4.
75.00
75.00
50.00
75.00
75.00
75.00
GOVERNMENT CENTRAL SCHOOL.
Chinese Examination.
Total
Class.
No. Examined.
Essay.
Letter.
Prosody.
Total Percentage of Passes.
7 8 N N OR ON
51
94.11
88.24
45.09
94.11
80
91.25
70.00
60.00
87.50
72
86.11
65.29
38.88
69.44
32
93.75
84.27
71.87
90.62
43
93.02
74.41
72.09
42
66.66
:
88.09
66.66
•
343
10. In addition to the remarks of the Headmaster, which will be found in the third paragraph of his Report, I have to make but a few general observations concerning the Government Central School. Comparing the results of the Government Central School examination, as above tabulated, with the results of the previous year's examination, it is evident there has been in most classes a falling off in the following subjects, viz., English reading, dictation, and composition. In all other subjects the School did, with the exception of Classes II, V and VI, as well as or better than last year. It is noteworthy that the subjects, in which there has been a considerable falling off, are the very subjects in which the Central School would naturally be expected to be, and to my knowledge is, deficient as compared with other Schools in the Colony, such as the Diocesan School, St. Joseph's College or the Hongkong Public School. As the vast majority of the boys of the Central School are Chinese boys who do not speak English nor hear English spoken out of school, and as the Central School gives a valuable portion of its time to Chinese teaching, the natural consequence is that the results obtained in the Central School in speaking and understanding English, and in English reading, dictation and composition are somewhat below the results obtained in other Schools, although the staff, organisation and method of the Central School are of a superior character. The Central School sends out annually a number of youths thoroughly well grounded in the rudiments of an English education, but the number of English speaking people in the Colony receives but a very small increase thereby year by year. A considerable proportion of the boys trained in the Central School go abroad. Most of those who remain, enter into business relations where they have little opportunity of keeping up or adding to their stock of English knowledge and consequently they have soon but little more than a smattering knowledge of English left. The principal point, however, is that the results of the Chinese teaching, which encroaches so much upon the English, are decidedly disappointing. The vast majority of the Chinese boys enter the Central School to learn English, after having studied Chinese classics in purely Chinese Schools, for four years or so. Whilst they are studying at the Central School for some 6 or 7 years longer, a portion of their school time is devoted to Chinese studies. Yet the best that can be said of the results of the Chinese teaching given at the Central School is that, on the whole, it keeps up the amount of knowledge of Chinese which each boy brings with him on entering the School. When the present system was inaugurated, the Chinese who send their children to the Central School had but few Schools outside the Central School where their boys might keep up their knowledge of Chinese, and it was therefore necessary to teach in the Central School both the English and Chinese languages. But things are different now. Chinese parents are now universally convinced that their children must first get a good grounding in the Chinese language for some 3 or 4 years at least, before they send them to the Central School. There are now Schools enough in the Colony, both Day Schools and Night Schools, which answer the purpose of giving Chinese boys a preliminary grounding in Chinese and which would answer the purpose, by the system of Evening Schools, of advancing the Chinese knowledge of the boys of the Central School, and they would answer that purpose better than the Central School can do it. I am therefore of opinion that the time has come for relieving the English teaching of the Central School from the trammels imposed upon it by teaching the Chinese language in addition to English. If the ordinary school-hours were devoted exclusively to the subjects of an English education, the Chinese language being used only as a medium for teaching English (when required), the Central School would continue to keep ahead of all the other educational establishments in the Colony. There would be no difficulty, if required, to insist upon every Chinese boy, unacquainted with English colloquial, qualifying himself for admission into the Central School by passing an entrance examination in Chinese, equal to the third or fourth Standard examination of Chinese Grant-in-Aid Schools. Nor would there be any difficulty in teaching the classical Chinese language at the Central School, as an extra subject, out of the ordinary school-hours, on special appli- cation and by special teachers.
·
11. There is one other point connected with the future of the Central School which I deem it important to refer to. The fees charged at the Central School might well be raised after the completion of the new buildings, so as to pay at least two thirds of the working expenses of the School. Under the present system the children of wealthy and well-to-do Chinese are educated partly at the expense of tax-payers who cannot afford a similar education for their own children, and the low fees charged at the Government Central School put a handicap on private efforts in the sphere of education. Considering also that in other Colonies the desire is felt to enable the Government to withdraw, when practicable, from direct interference in educational efforts, it is quite within the horizon of probabilities that the Central School may at some future time be made a self-supporting institution under a governing body representing the taxpayers rather than the Government.
12. The Anglo-Chinese Schools of the Government, located at Sayingp'ún, Wongnaich'ung, Wántsai, Stanley and Yaumáti, continue to show fair results. Two of these Schools, located in town, are in charge of exceptionally good teachers and are every year besieged with crowds of applicants for admission who have to be refused for want of space and corresponding teaching power. In the villages, however, there is constantly a complaint that our teachers, if able to teach English, are incompetent as regards Chinese teaching, and the desire of the parents, based on the general experience that natives can ordinarily gain proficiency in English only at the expense of proficiency in Classical Chinese, generally is, that the Government should provide in Anglo-Chinese Schools a special teacher for each of the two languages. This has been done in the case of the two Schools located in town, but in the
344
villages the number of scholars, desiring to learn both English and Chinese at the same time, is too small to justify the additional expense involved. The need of a Training School to provide teachers for the Government Schools (outside the Central School) makes itself constantly felt and this need is not likely to be supplied by the training class now formed in the Government Central School.
13. The work of those Government Schools and Aided Schools which give but a Chinese education in the Chinese language, has continued during the year 1886 its usual course, and calls for no special remarks. Special effort has been made, by allotting separate prizes at the annual prize-giving, to extend the teaching of geography and of Chinese composition in these Schools, and some improvement has taken place in these respects. In the case of one Aided School, that at Aberdeen, the unhealthiness of the locality, which compelled the Government to remove the Police Station, has also necessitated the removal of the School to the opposite island of Aplichau. In the case of another Aided School, that of Shamshuipo, where the Aided system year by year shewed very poor results, an attempt has been made to improve the School by the application of the Grant-in-Aid system. The first year's trial did not improve matters, but there is hope that in course of time better results may be obtained.
14. As regards the Grant-in-Aid Schools, the year 1886 has afforded fresh proof that the alter- ations introduced in the Grant-in-Aid Scheme in 1883, principally affecting schools in Class I (i.e. Schools giving a Chinese education in the Chinese language) are beneficial. The subjoined Comparative Table, exhibiting the working of the Revised Scheme (of 1883) which came into operation in the year 1884, clearly proves, as far as Schools in Class I are concerned, that the desire of the Government to reduce the earning power of these inexpensive Schools (whilst increasing the pensum of work to be done under some Standards), and to encourage the teachers to bring more children under instruction in the higher Standards without skipping the lower ones, has been attained.
TABLE SHEWING EFFECTS OF REVISION OF SCHEME (1883) ON SCHOOLS IN CLASS I.
Number of Scholars Examined.
Amount earned by Passes (apart from Capitation Grant and Needle work).
Standards.
1884.
.1885.
1886.
1884.
1885.
1886.
$9
$
I.,
76
128
271
146
160
462
II.,.
557
823
652
3,124
3,052
2,496
III.,
470
446
474
2,208
2,196
2,184
IV.,
120
128
138
840
624
640
V.,
26
26
44
230
210
320
VI.,
Q
9
11
24
108.
120
1,251*
1,560
1,590
$6,572
$6,350
$ 6,222
*This reduction was caused by local disturbances unconnected with the Revision of the Scheme.
15. As regards the Grant-in-Aid Schools in Class III there are, this year also, but few special features calling for comment. The history and composition teaching in Schools in Class III continues to show improved results. The facility with which Chinese children, after five years' teaching of the Romanized system, write composition exercises in Romanized Chinese Colloquial, is quite equal to the average attainments of English children in the corresponding English subjects, whilst the same Chinese children would require additional five years' teaching to gain similar facility in expressing their thoughts in the written Chinese character. Nevertheless, I think, so far as practical utility is con- cerned, a child educated in a purely Chinese School in Class I, able to read and write a Chinese letter in the Chinese character, possesses a better training for practical life than the Romanized system, encroaching by the time it demands upon the time absolutely required for the teaching of the written Chinese character, can possibly give, unless the school-age is abnormally extended.
16. The Grant-in-Aid Schools in Class IV continue to improve year by year in organisation and effectiveness of teaching. It is noticeable that the Portuguese community are every year sending more and more children to pass first, for three or four years, through a purely Portuguese School before sending then to an English School. The more this movement extends, the more solid appear to be the results of the English teaching in the higher Standards. As regards the English Schools in Class IV, the Diocesan School and St. Joseph's College require special mention. The Diocesan School
i
345
continues, as before, to distinguish itself by combining with solid teaching in the ordinary Standards also the special subjects of physical geography, algebra and euclid, good results being exhibited in every Standard. St. Joseph's College has made a new move, in the year 1886, which is a move in the right direction. Whilst formerly teaching Portuguese and Chinese youths in separate classes, an arrangement has been made to confine this separate system to the lower Standards, and to move all Chinese scholars who have passed Standard III into the European Division where now Chinese and Portuguese youths are taught side by side. By this arrangement, the Chinese gain the advantage of association with Portuguese who are better speakers of English, and the Portuguese gain at the same time the stimulus arising from emulation. The consequence of this measure was also a considerable increase of numbers in the Chinese Division. At the annual examination, this Chinese Division did very well in all subjects, and in some classes the English reading was exceptionally good. As to the European Division of St. Joseph's College, there has been manifest progress in all directions. Quarterly examinations were introduced in 1886, in addition to the weekly examinations, and the organisation, method and discipline of this Division now leave little to be desired. The boys in Standard III were somewhat weak in grammar, and those of Standard V in composition (principally in consequence of the admixture of Chinese), but the composition in Standard VI was very good on the whole, and so also the arithmetic in all Standards. The cheerful spirit animating all the classes of the European Division is, side by side with the strict discipline of the whole School, a very noticeable feature of St. Joseph's College.
17. The needle-work examination was conducted in 1886 on the plan resorted to in 1885 and explained in my last Annual Report. The needle-work submitted for examination was done in my presence and then forwarded, together with a Schedule detailing the particulars of each child, to a Lady who chose her own Committee and adjudged the merits of each piece of work. This Committee reports having observed real progress made since the previous year. The Committee find that most teachers have been very successful, but that some seein hardly qualified for their position as needle- work teachers. In some cases the Committee were sorely puzzled, the needle-work done in the presence of the examiner being bad and dirty while the other portion of the work was good and clean. It is possible that this may be accounted for by assuming that the children were nervous in the presence of the examiner, but even that does not fully explain the very great difference noticed in some specimens of needle-work. The thanks of the Government are again due to the Lady and her Committee who conducted this needle-work examination with such painstaking minuteness and scrupu- lous impartiality.
18. The educational movement of the Colony received a considerable stimulus in the year 1886 by the introduction of the system of the Cambridge Local Examinations and by the arrangements made for establishing a Medical School in connection with the Alice Memorial Hospital, admission to which may soon become a keenly contested prize, like the Scholarships of the Colony, if the students receive regular and progressive teaching. With the increase of stimulants tending to promote mental exertion, it behoves educationists also to keep an eye on the encroaches which stimulated mental exertion is, especially in this climate, liable to make upon health, and to discern at an early stage what children are and what children are not fitted for the severe and protracted exertion of the mind called forth by a multiplication of competitive examinations. In this Colony, where there is hardly any sphere for the industrial education of the children of European and Portuguese residents, the tendency which Mr. GLADSTONE has described as the fault of modern education, is specially strong, viz., to overcrowd the professions that depend upon the mind as distinguished from those dependent on the hand. There is serious risk in trying might and main to fit young people for the learned and clerical professions that they may be spoiled for handicraft only in order to discover too late that they have not the natural gifts indispensable to success in the more intellectual order.
19. I enclose the usual Tables, I to XVI, containing the Educational Statistics for the year 1886.
I have the honour to be,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Colonial Secretary.
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant.
E. J. EITEL. A.M., PH.D.,
Inspector of Schools.
$
346
No.
TABLE I-NUMBER of SCHOLARS attending Schools subject to Government Supervision during 1886.
Name of School.
American Board Mission, Bridges Street (Boys),
1
";
}
3
**
Aplichau,
::
Station Terrace (Boys),
East Street (Boys),.. Hinglung Lane (Boys), Queen's Road West (Boys),
Basel Mission, High Street (Girls),
8
Shamshuipo (Boys),
.9
Berlin Mission (Girls),
10
11
12
II.
"
21
13
11
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
>>
22
23
""
24
25
"}
26
Central School,
C. M. S., St. Stephen's I. Division (Boys),
Lyndhurst Terrace (Boys),
D'Aguilar Street (Boys),
Saiyingp'ún (Boys),
St. Stephen's Baxter Memorial (Girls), Lyndhurst Terrace (Girls),
Third Street (Girls),
Diocesan Home and Orphanage (Boys),
F. E. S., Bonham Road (Girls),
High Street (Girls),
Queen's Road (Girls),
Hollywood Road (Girls), D'Aguilar Street (Girls), Stanley Street (Girls), Shaukiwán (Girls),
(Boys),
27
Háwán,
28
Hoktsui,
29
Hokün...
30
Hunghòm,
31
32
33
""
34
11
35
"
36
37
"
38
39
"
40
41
42
Little Hongkong,
L. M. S., Hollywood Road (Boys),
Wantsai (Boys),...................
Yaumáti (Boys).............................
Shektiongtsui (Boys),
Saiyingpún I. Division (Boys),
II.
Hunghom (Boys),
>>
Shekt ongtsui (Girls),
Aberdeen Street (Girls),
Kau-ü-fong (Girls),
Ship Street (Girls),
(Boys),
43
"}
Yaumáti (Girls),
44.
"
Stanley Street (Girls),
45
}}
Lower Lascar Row (Girls),
46
"
47
??
48
"
49
>>
50
"
51
99
>>
•
52
53
54
55
53
57
58
59
60
61
22222222288GBAR38288**
">
"
*
""
European
Italian Convent (Girls),
62
63
64
Tanglungchau (Girls),
Taipingshan Chapel (Girls),
Saiyingp'un First Street (Girls); ......................................................................................................
Wantsai (Girls),...
Staunton Street, Upper School (Girls),.......................
Matauch'ung,
Matauts'un,...................
Mongkok,
New Village (Little Hongkong), Pokfulam,
R. C. M., Cathedral School (Boys),
St. Joseph's College Chinese Division (Boys),.
(Boys),
Bridges Street, Portuguese School (Mixed),
St. Francis Chapel, Portuguese School (Mixed),.
Victoria Portuguese School (Mixed),
Victoria, English School (Boys),
Lower
>>
(Girls),....
65
Victoria, English School (Girls),
66
Saiyingp'ún (English),
67
(Punti),
68
69
Sháiwán,
70
Shamsbuipo,
(Hakka),
71
Shaukiwán,
72
Sheko,
73
71
75
Stanley,
76
77
78
79
Sheungwán (Boys),
(Girls),
Taiwongkung,.
Tanglungchau (Hakka),
Tokwáwán (Eastern Village),..
(Punti),
80
(Western Village),
81
Tsát-tszmui..
82
Wantsai (English),
83
(Chinese)..
S
Wesleyan Mission Spring Gardens (Boys),
$5
"
19
Wellingtong Street (Boys),
*.86
"
"
(Girls),
87
Wongkoktsui,
83
$9
Wongmakok,
Wongnaich'ung,
90
Yaumáti,
Central School.
Native Native Grant-in- Schools Schools Aid (Govt.) (Aided). School.
Total.
610
87
87
89
42
42
44
44
72
72
60
60
63
63
45
45
36
36
610
127
127
108
108
107
107
74
74
80
80
73
73
56
56
68
68
95
95
32
32
39
39
35
35
36
36
25
25
43
43
31
31
31
...
31
14
14
19
19
5
5
31
34
171
171
98
98
96
96
...
97
97
107
107
88
88
66
29
25
34
29
10
8
113
222
151
146
45
103
103
23
34
34
47
47
40
40
610
901
382
3,951
5,844
•
43
43
100
100
56
58
22
22
2
60
GO
15
15
57
102
102
52
52
...
84 71
71
38
33
་་་
25
19
146
144
: +88RENE8: ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦ 2887JHMENSK2
60
113
151
19
182880RZABGFSABRHRA 8225*88** & *N`ORDSIZEABK- - ****
8
60.
TABLE II-PROPORTION of SCHOLARS to POPULATION in the CITY of VICTORIA and in the VILLAGES in 1886.
347
CITY AND HARBOUR OF VICTORIA.
Population as per Census of 188, ....
CHILDREN IN SCHOOLS UNDER GOVERNMENT SUPERVISION, IN THE CITY OF VICTORIA,
VILLAGES.
Population, including Boat Population, as per Census of 188,
CHILDREN IN SHOOLS UNDER GOVERNMENT SUPERVISION, IN VILLAGES.
No. of Sholars.
1. American Board Mission, Bridges Street (Boys)....
87
1. Aplichau,
2.
22
>>
Station Terrace (Boys),
89
3.
">
East Street (Boys),
42
2. Basel Mission, Shamshuipò (Boys),. 3. F. E. S., Shaukiwán (Girls)..
4.
#
#
Hinglung Lane (Boys), ....
44
4.
Stanley (Girls),
5.
+3
Queen's Road West (Boys),
72
5. Hoktsui,
10.
""
11.
""
12.
"
6. Berlin Mission (Girls),
7. Basel Mission, High Street (Girls),
8. Central School,
9. C. M. S., St. Stephen's I Division (Boys),
!!
Lyndhurst Terracce (Boys),
D'Aguilar Street (Boys),
36
6. Hokün,
63
7. Hunghom,
610
127
II
(Boys),
108
10.
107
11.
15
74
12.
13.
Saiyingp'ún (Boys),
80
13.
14.
St. Stephen's Baxter Memorial (Girls),
73
14.
15.
#
Lyndhurst Terrace (Girls),
56
15. Mat'auch'ung,
16.
27
Third Street (Girls),
68
16. Matauts'ün,..
19.
20.
:
;"
21.
"?
22.
"
25.
""
26.
27.
28.
29.
-30.
31.
32.
33.
"
34.
>>
35.
**
36. 37.
""
17. Diocesan Home and Orphanage (Boys),
18. F. E. S., Bonham Road (Girls),
23. Háwán,
High Street (Girls), Queen's Road (Girls), Hollywood Road (Girls), D'Aguilar Street (Girls),
24. L. M. S., Hollywood Road (Boys),
Saiyingp'ún I Division (Boys),
95
17. Mongkok,..
32
8. Little Hongkong,
9. L. M. S., Hunghòm (Boys),
Shekt'ongtsui (Boys),
(Girls),
Tanglungoban (Girls), Yaumáti (Girls), (Boys),
1. New Village (Little Hongkong),
"
39
19. Pokfulam,
No. of Scholars.
60
45
31
43
14
19
34
66
97
58
96
25
34
10
8
35
20. Sháiwan.
********
36
21. Shamshuipo,
25
22. Shaukiwán,
31
23. Sheko,
171
24. Stanley,..
XECABRE**22*2°39
15
52
Wántsai, (Boys),
98
107
26.
II
(Boys),
"
Aberdeen Street (Girls),
88
25. Tanglungchau (Hakka),
27. Tokwäwân (Eastern Village),
71
(Punti),
38
33
69
28
(West Village), .................
25
39.
40.
">
19
European
41.
Italian Convent (Girls),
:>
42.
">
43.
41.
45.
་
46.
English School (Boys),
"
*
(Girls),
Kau-ü-fong (Girls),
Ship Street (Girls),
Stanley Street (Girls), .
Lower Lascar Row (Girls),
Taipingshan Chapel (Girls),
Saiyingp'un First Street (Girls), Wantsai (Girls),...
Staunton Street Upper School (Girls),
**
38. R. C. M., Cathedral School (Boys),........
St. Joseph's College Chinese Division (Boys)..........
Bridges Street, Portuguese School (Mixed),
St. Francis Chapel, Portuguese School (Mixed),... 60 Victoria, Portuguese School (Mixed),
36
29. Tsattszemui,.
19
62
34
31. Wongmakok,
30. Wongkoktsui, ...........................
34
9
28
32. Wongnaich'ung,
47
79
3. Yaumáti.
40
71
69
TOTAL
1 100
39
Lower School (Girls),.
53
60
113
(Boys),...
222
115
94
60
41
43
51.
18.
(Punti),
49.
(Hakka).
(Girls),
54.
47. Saiyingp‘ún (English),
50. Sheungwan (Boys),
52. Taiwongkung,
53. Wantsaf (English),...
(Chinese),...
55. Wesleyan Mission Spring Gardens (Boys),
100
58
57
102
84
146
45
56.
13
"
Wellington Street (Boys),
103
57.
·
">
·,'
(Girls),
23
TOTAL,......... ..4,609
TABLE III-NUMBER of SCHOLARS at the GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS during 1886 and EXPENSES of each SCHOOL,
No.
Name of School.
Boys. Girls. Total.
Expensc. No.
Name of School.
Boys, Girls. Total, Expense.
Brought forward,
1,051
1,051 | $13,170.33
1 Aplichau.
60
60
$
2 Central School,............
610
610
67.00 18 11,680.41 19
Shaukiwán,
60
60
156.00
3 | Hawán,
31
31
29.00 20
Shéko,........ Sheungwán (Roys),
15
15
120.00
57
51
308.00
4 Hoktsui,
14
14
60.00 21
(Girls),,
102
102
621.00
5 Hokün,
19
19
60.00 22
Stanley.
52
349,27
6 Hunghom,
5.00 28
Táiwongkung..
84
329.80
7 Little Hongkong,
34
60.00 24
Tanglungchau (Hakka),
71
71
120.00
8 Matauch'ung,
25
60.00 25
(Punti),
38
180.00
9 Mat'ants'ün,
34
34
60.00 26
Tokwáwán (Eastern Village),
33
獎
60.00
10 Mongkok,
29
60.00 27
(Western Village),.
25
25
$0.00
11 New Village (Little H’kong).
10
10
60.00 28
12 | Pokfulam,
8
8
13 Saiyingp'ún (English),
100
59.04 29 £47.08 30
Tsattszemui, Wantsai (English),
19
19
60.00
146
100
#
(Chinese),
(144)
146 |{
463.67
250.00
14
10
(Punti),
(66)
15
12
(Hakka),
58
58
253.40
16 Shaiwan,
17 Shamshuipù,
22
22
2
2
Carried forward.............
1,051
:
1,051
146,50 31 Wongkokts'ui,
32 Wongmakok, 60.00 33 Wongnaich'ung,
2.90 34 | Yaumáti,
13,170.33
34
34
72.00
9
9
12,00
47
47
262.24
40
40
384.27
TOTAL..........
1,791
102 1,893
$17,026.58
348
TABLE IV.-AVERAGE EXPENSES of each SCHOLAR or STUDENT at the Government Schools during the Year 1886. GOVERNMENT CENTRAL SCHOOL,
Expenditure,
Expenditure,
GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS AND AIDED SCHOOLS.
Add Inspector's Salary,
Chinese Writer's Salary,
وو
Teacher's Salary,
,, Travelling Expenses,
.$11,680.41
.$ 5,346.17.
.$2,400
300
120
288
3,108.00
$20,134.58
No.
Total Expenditure for the year :-
Government Central School,
Government Schools and Aided Schools,
A.
Average Expenses calculated by the Enrolment.
1. Average Expense of each Scholar at Government Central School,
mi ci as
2.
""
39
وو
""
at other Government Schools,
3.
""
99
"
"
at Government Aided Schools,
B.
$11,680.41
8,454.17
Average Expenses calculated by the average Daily Attendance.
1. Average Expense of each Scholar at Government Central School,
Hai
39
21
""
3.
39
"
"
at other Government Schools, at Government Aided Schools,
......
$19.11 4.90 2.45
.$26.17
6.97
3.76
TABLE V.-AVERAGE MONTHLY ENROLMENT and DAILY ATTENDANCE at the Government Schools for 1886.
Name of School.
Average Monthly Enrolment.
Average Daily Attendance.
1
Aplichau,
43.55
37.83
Central School,
470.16
446.22
3
Háwán,
31.00
24.38
Hoktsui,
13.23
12.53
Hokün,
9.83
8.64
Hunghòm,.
5.00
4.04
Little, Hongkong,
30.00
29.08
8
Mat'auch'ung,..
16.58
13.92
9
Mat'auts'ün,
22.67
22.67
10
Mongkok,
18.83
17.75
11
New Village (Little Hongkong),
7.75
7.27
12
Pokfulam,
7.10
6.17
13
Sayingp'ún (English),
65.33
61.44
14
29
(Hakka),
25.67
23.21
15
""
(Púnti),
45.73
45.65
16
Sháiwán,
12.08
7.43
17
Shamshuip'ò,
2.00
2.00
18
Shaukiwán,
36.08
29.51
19
Shekò,.
13.58
12.90
20
Shéungwán (Boys),
33.50
30.35
21
(Girls),
54.33
42.92
22
Stanley,...
37.00
32.08
23
Táiwongkung,
40.75
36.32
24
Tanglungchan (Hakka),
37.17
32.27
25
"J
(Punti),
21.92
19.61
26
T'òkwáwán (Eastern Village),
24.66
20.05
27
(Western Village),
15.33
12.89
28
Ts'attszemúi,
11.58
8.99
29
Wántsai (English),
101.00
95.29
30
(Chinese),
100.50
93.59
31
Wongkoktsui,
27.00
22.41
32
33
34
Wongmakok,
Wongnaich'ung,
Yaumáti,...
8.92
8.64
31.82
28.44
26.25
24.24.
1,447.90
1,320 73
349
TABLE VI.—MAXIMUM and MINIMUM ENROLMENT and DAILY ATTENDANCE at the Government Schools during 1886.
No.
Name of School,
Maximum Monthly Enrolment.
Minimum Monthly Enrolment.
Maximum Daily
Attendance.
Minimum Daily Attendance.
(monthly average). (monthly average).
1
Aplichau,
2
Central School,
Háwán,
60
11
53.00
10.00
507
419
496.80
408.06
31
31
24.38
24.38
Hoktsui,
14
10
14.00
10.00
Hokün,
11
6
10.58
6.00
Hunghòm,.
5
5
4.04
4.04
Little Hongkong,
32
19
31.38
19.00
8
Mat'aurh'ung,..
18
13
16.59
9.61
9
Mát'ants'ün,
24
16
23.80
16.00
10
Mongkok,
24
11
23.00
10.46
11
New Village (Little Hongkong),
9
5
8.00
5.00
12
Pokfulam,.
8
5
7.89
3.52
13
Saiyingp'ún (English),
69
57
65.33
50.62
14
(Hakka),
31
22
30.30
18.65
15
(Punti),
52
18
50.00
18.00
16
Sháiwán,
16
9
11.37
4.26
17
Shamshuip'ò,.
2
2
2.00
2.00
18
Shaukiwán,
47
22
38.38
21.50
19
Shekò,
14
11
14.00
11.00
20
Shéungwán (Boys),
38
27
33.07
27.00
21
**
(Girls),
62
31
53.89
30.50
22
Stanley,
45
23
41.66
23.00
23
Táiwongkung,
56
26
56.00
25.45
24
Tanglungchau (Hakka),
45
17
39.59
17.00
25
(Punti),
25
11
23.60
11.00
26
Tòkwáwán (Eastern Village),
28
12
23.69
12.00
27
""
(Western Village),
18
9
16.50
8.54
28
Ts'attszemui,
13
7
11.42
5.15
29
Wántsai (English),
115
59
111.48
54.95
30
??
(Chinese
115
59
111.52
52.43
31
32
33
34
Wongkoktsui, Wongmákok,. Wongnaichu'ng, Yaumáti,
31
14
28.63
14.00
9
8
9.00
6.62
39.
26
81.37
24.43
30
19
28.12
18.70
1,643
1,040
1,544.38
882.87
No.
TABLE VII.-NUMBER of DAYS on which the GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS were taught during 1886.
Name of School.
School Days.
No.
Name of School.
School Days.
1 2 3
Aplichau,....
Central School,
3
Háwán,
227 238
18
**
Shaukiwán,
251
19 Chekò,
249
21
20
Hoktsui,
247
21
>"
Shéungwán (Boys),.
(Girls),
239
246
Hokün,
253
22
Stanley,
236
Hunghò,.
27
23
Táiwongkung,
243
Little Hongkong,.
252
24
Tanglungchau (Hakka),
249
Mat'auch'ung,
:
254
25
(Punti),
249
9
Mat'auts'ün,
238
26
Tòkwáwán (Eastern Village),
252
10
Monkok,
255
27
(Western Village),
254
11
New Village (Little Hongkong),
250
28.
Tsattszzemui,
252
12
Pokfúlam,.
226
29
Wántsai (English),
241
13
Saiyingp'ún (English),
229
30
""
(Chinese),
243
14
">
(Hakka),
242
31
15
(Punti),
219
32
16
Sháiwán,
253
33
Wongkoktsui,
Wongmákok,
Wongneich'ung,
253
253
228
17
Shamshuipò,...
18
34
Yaumáti,
246
350
TABLE VIII.—SUMMARY of ENROLMENT and ATTENDANCE at the GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS for the last twenty-four Years,
Years.
Minimum Daily Attendance.
Total Enrolment for the Year.
Maximum Daily Attendance. (Monthly Average).
Minimum Monthly Enrolment.
(Monthly Average),
1863,
535
469
414
301
1864,
502
417
634
324
1865,
597
535
418
330
1866,
623
572
435
337
1867, ......
700
610
533
408
1868,
916
664
572
460
1869,
942
748
627
304
1870,
1,302
950
683
556
1871,
1,292
937
741
571
+
1872,
1,480
1,157
837
665
1873,
1,838
1,326
852
760
1874,
1,931
1,271
974
836
1875,
1,927
1,312
988
863
1876,
2,171
1,388
1,057
995
1877,
2,148
1,446
1,212
1,035
1878,
2,101
1,324
1,100
936
1879, .............................................
2,043
1,356
1,027
904
1880,
2,078
1,468
1,082
987
1881.
1,986
1,384
1,093
956
1882,
2.114
1,444
1,062
988
1883,
2,080
1,414
1,138
990
1884, ********
1,978
1,420
1,066
941
1885,
1,988
1,424
1,061
926
1886,
2,093
1,544
1,040
886
TABLE IX-ENROLMENT and ATTENDANCE at the CENTRAL SCHOOL during 1886.
Month.
Number of Scholars.
Average Daily Attendance.
Number of Attendances.
Number of School Days.
January, February,
419
6,937
17
408.06
502
2,484
5
496.80
March,
507
13,121
27
485,96
April,....
505
7,153
15
476.87
DAS
May,...
492
11,356
25
454.24
June,
476
10,845
21
451.87
July,
466
12,046
27
146.15
August,
451
2,204
5
440.89
September,
468
8,970
20
448.50
October,....
467
11,031
25
441.24
November,....
457
11,019
26
423.81
December,
432
9,035
22
410.68
Total,,
106,201
238
Total Number of ATTENDANCEs during 1886,
Number of SCHOOL DAYS during 1886,...
Average DAILY ATTENDANCE during 1886,
106,201 238 446,22 610
Total Number of SCHOLARS at this School during 1886,.......
TABLE X.-GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS (CENTRAL SCHOOL excepted) arranged in the order of their efficiency.
Rank I.
Saiyingp1ún, English School.
Wantsai, Chinese School.
Rank II.
Wongnaich'ung, Anglo-Chinose School. Yaumáti, Anglo-Chinese School. Wántsai, English School. Stanley, Anglo-Chiuese School. Saiyingpfún, Chinese Punti School. Taiwongkung, Chinese School. Sheungwán, Chinese (Boys) School. Sheungwán, Chinese (Girls) School.
Rank II,-Continued.
Tanglungchau, Chinese Hakka School. Tanglungchau, Chinese Punti School. Little Hongkong, Chinese School. Shankiwán, Chinese School. Shekò, Chinese School.
Rank III.
Little Hongkong (Now Village) Chi-
nese School.
Aplichan, Chinese School. Mongkok, Chinese School.
Rank III,-Continued.
Matʻauts'lin, Chinese School. Wongkoktsui, Chinese School. Ts'attszemui, Chinese School. Hoktsui, Chinese School. Mát auch'ung, Chinese School. Tòkwáwán (East), Chinese School. Tòkwáwán, (West) Chinese School. Saiyingp'ún, Chinese School. Wongmakok, Chinese Şehool. Hokün, Chinese School.
Sháiwán, Chinese School.
Pokfulam, Chinese School.
Hunghám, Chinese School.
:
Class of
School.
TABLE XI.-Number of SCHOLARS attending Schools receiving GRANTS-IN-AID (under the Provisions of the Scheme of 1883), Expenses incurred and amount of Grant gained by each, in 1886.
Name of School.
351
Boys. Girls. Total.
Expenses incurred
iu 1886.
Amount of Grant gained for 1886.
C.
I, American Board Mission, Bridges Street (Boys),
""
""
Station Terrace (Boys),.
"3
>>
""
East Street (Boys),
58893
87
87
264.00
209.30
89
200.00
237.06
42
42
237.00
174.41
"
Hinglung Lane (Boys),..
44
44
268.50
170.05
>"
>>
وو
Queen's Road West (Boys),
72
72
323.45
352.67
""
"
Basel Mission, Shamshuipò School (Boys), C. M. S., Stephen's I Division (Boys),
45
45
36.38
127
127
394.66
195.60
II
""
"
29
وو
(Boys),
108
108
312.87
226.31
33
"
""
""
""
"9
Saiyingp'ún (Boys),
""
""
""
""
""
""
""
31
""
""
""
**
""
39
22
12
"
**
39
Wantsai (Boys),
33
>>
"
Lyndhurst Terrace (Boys),
D'Aguilar Street (Boys),
Lyndhurst Terrace (Girls), Third Street (Girls),.
F. E. S., Bonham Road (Girls),
High Street (Girls), Queen's Road (Girls), Hollywood Road (Girls), D'Aguilar Street (Girls), Stanley School (Girls), Shaukiwán (Girls),
L. M. S., Hollywood Road (Boys),
Yaumati (Boys),
Shekt'ongtsui (Boys),
Saiyingp'ún I Division. (Boys),
II
Hunghòm (Boys),
Shektongtsui (Girls),
Aberdeen Street (Girls),
107
107
336.85
328.09
74
74
269.35
135.21
80
80
284.80
175.83
St. Stephen's Baxter Memorial (Girls),
73
73
272.61
185.65
56
56
233.02
192.01
68
68
223.10
173.25
32
32
454.70
87.31
39
39
202.70
120.35*
35
35
210.10
166.95
36
36
229.30
103.97
25
25
206.90
103.07
43
43
107
(Boys),
:: 5 3 8 5 5 8 8
189.34
138.60
31
31
121.32
171
171
655.95
507.04
98
98
652.06
309.96
96
96
446.30
165.39
97
97
468.36
292.36
107
596.62
228.63
88
88
553.09
258.64
66
572.84
138.90
..
-99
Kau-ü-fong (Girls),
>>
Ship Street (Girls),
""
Yaumati (Girls),
>>
""
Stanley Street (Girls),
>>
""
Lower Lascar Row (Girls),
8888
29
29
370.26
126.85
69
69
499.81
304.88
86
86
619.96
392.68
62
62
327.43
235.51
29
29
210.58
43.70
34
34
459.92
152.96
28
28
130.17
""
""
وو
23
""
""
""
Wantsai (Girls),
"
25
""
""
* * * * *
·""
""
""
European
""
"
Italian Convent (Girls),
""
♥ ☺ ☺ ☺
Tanglungchau (Girls),
Taipingshan Chapel (Girls),
Saiyingp'ún First Street (Girls),.
Staunton Street, Upper School (Girls),
""
Lower School (Girls),
R. C. M., Cathedral School (Boys), Wesleyan Mission Spring Gardens (Boys),
Wellington Street (Boys),
"
III, Basel Mission, High Street (Girls),.......
Berlin Mission (Girls),
IV. Diocesan Home and Orphanage (Boys),
R. C. M., St. Joseph's College, Chinese Division (Boys),.
Bridges Street, Portuguese School (Mixed), St. Francis Chapel, Portuguese School (Mixed), Victoria, Portuguese School (Mixed),
58
58
221.11
162.60
79
79
376.63
314.83
71
71
204.00
248.22
103
>>
(Girls),
113
(Boys),.
222
:::༄༅:;:;
69 69
680.50
436.73
39
39
127.45
583.82
53
53
243.96
60
60
297.00
113.87
45
115.24
103
408.00
389.06
23
23
207.00
57.41
63
63
759.08
476.68
36
36
1,123.78
393.90
6
95
8,165.19
414.76
113
660.65
6,135.15
222
1,280.57
151
151
2,666.45
785.51
44
94
912.00
376.45
20
40
60
1,248.00
240.47
30
30
60
1,231.00
234.73
""
"
English School (Boys),..
>>
""
>>
(Girls),
41
41
2,185.90
43
43
{
120.74
209.87
2,371 1,580 3,951 38,951.04 | 14,324.76
"
•
352
TABLE XII.-ENROLMENT, ATTENDANCE and NUMBER of SCHOOL DAYS at the GRANT-IN-AID SCHOOLS during 1886.
No.
Name of School.
Average Average Daily Number
Maxi- Mini-
Average Average Maxi- Mini-
mum
inum
mum
Enrol- Eurol-
ment. ment.
Monthly Monthly Daily Daily
mum
Monthly Attend- of
Enrol-
Attend- Attend-
ment.
ance for the
School Days.
ance.
ance.
Year.
IGO HO
618
American Board Mission, Bridges St. (Boys), ...
87
79
""
29
دو
Station Terrace (Boys) East Street (Boys),...
53
42
37
39
""
>>
Hinglung Lane (Boys))
Queen's Road West)
72
(Boys), f
39
9
10
11
12
13
14
">
Basel Mission, Shamshuipò School (Boys),
7 C. M. S., St. Stephen's I Division (Boys),
Lyndhurst Terrace (Boys),
76
II
(Boys),
87
**** 2 GONE!
38
83.00
34.00
73.41
67.30
245
44
50.16
41.22
49.66
47.06
257
28
40.84
26.83 38.51
36.41
237
44
19
39.23
14.44 39.09 34.05
261
62
69.95
58.77
69.72
66.67
254
43
11
32.81
5.28
32.36
22.38
244
40
67.38 36.19
58.75
51.60
277
43
71.69
40.07
69.66
62.61
267
77
57
73.77
56.41
70.16 68.09
265
D'Aguilar Street (Boys),
41
20
37.46
19.12
33.16
31.21
270
Saiyingp'ún (Boys),
62
36
54.83
. 31.00
47.58 43.83
270
St. Stephen's Baxter Memorial (Girls), Lyndhurst Terrace (Girls),
56
25
54.47
24.16
41.41 38.65
263
41
29
35.44
26.77
37.00
33.01
276
Third Street (Girls),
53
19
41.92
14.13
39.66
33.75
271
15 F. E. S., Bonham Road (Girls),
29
18
26.65
16.66 25.10
23.81
232
16
39
High Street (Girls),...
35
26
29.62
20.76
30.82
25.85
259
17
**
Queen's Road (Girls),
32
25
28.28
16.41
27.82
24.95
271
18
"
Hollywood Road (Girls),.
36
16
32.13
13.00
27.72
25.47
257
19
}"
D'Aguilar Street Girls),
25
14
23.29
12.23
19.18
18.07
253
20
"
Stanley School (Girls),
31.
18
25.19
15.00
27.58
22.10
271
21
**
Shaukiwán (Girls),
30
20
24.65
20.00
25.45
21.82
254.
22 L. M. S., Hollywood Road (Boys),
123
78
105.55
71.62
102.91
97.04
253
23
"
Wantsai (Boys),
75
39
72.01
36.57
66.75
63.96
261
24
J
Yaumati (Boys),
60
33
49.21
32.83
43.75
40.10
288
25
J
Shekt'ongtsui (Boys),......
59
50
55.88 40.20
56.08
52.36
270
26
Saiyingp'ún I Division (Boys),
62
50
60.65 43.33 59.83 56.63
236
27
II
""
(Boys),
62
39
58.96
31.75 58.00 54.64
254
28
""
Hunghòm (Boys),
62
16
56.00
14.14 44.91
40.90
258
29
""
Shekt'ongtsui (Girls),
26
13
24.73
11.83 21.42
20.35
267
30
"
Aberdeen Street (Girls),
54
29
49.48 26.34
47.00
40.88
280
31
""
Kau-ü-fong (Girls),..
65
40
59.96
31.11
59.17
53.68
282
32
33
""
34
23
Ship Street (Girls),
Yaumati (Girls),
Stanley Street (Girls),
45.
28
40.69 24.55
41.92
37.01
275
20
10
14.89
10.00
14.16
12.00
288
34
12
32.96
12.00 29.18 27.46
256
35
"9
Lower Lascar Row (Girls),
28
12
27.26
36
""
Tanglungchau (Girls),
49
28
43.76
37
"
Taipingshan Chapel (Girls),
62
37
51.75
11.22 23.80 39.08 29.22 48.33
22.55 21.17
256
34.10
272
39.33
275
38
39
Saiyingp'un, First Street (Girls),
56
22
47.66 17.22
45.25 40.22
279
39
"
Wantsai (Girls),
69
59
64.65 51.76
65.27 59.23
271
40
"
Staunton Street Upper School (Girls),
27
17
25.56 16.88
23.41
22.45
268
41
Lower School (Girls),
42
27
37.84 26.00
44
""
42 | R. C. M., Cathedral School (Boys), 43 Wesleyan Mission, Spring Gardens, (Boys),.. Wellington Street (Boys),
43
32
36.11 27.92
43
33
40.54
103
81
101.33
45
""
(Girls),
23
7
20.04
55
56
*** O IN 198
46 Basel Mission, High Street (Girls), 47 Berlin Mission (Girls),...
61
45
57.93
36
34
36.00
Diocesan Home and Orphanage (Boys),
65
47
56.52
35.25 32.46 36.33 29.53 37.60 35.24 79.50 6.91 42.76 55.16 52.18 29.00 35.18 33.90 45.20 59.27 52.76
272
31.87
276
245
92.72 89.06
242
17.30 15.41
243
259
263
241
49 R. C. M., St. Joseph's College Chinese Division
110
93
105.43
91.40
105.75 102.65
214
(Boys),
50
St. Joseph's College European Divi-
217
192
202.58 148.73
sion (Boys),
204.16 190.57
222
51
J
Italian Convent (Girls),
130
121
52
39.
Bridges St., Portuguese School (Mixed),
75
53
122.00 99.85 126.36 66.50 38.65 63.50
113.03
232
50.95
261
53
St. Francis Chapel, Portuguese
School (Mixed),
51
33
54
دو
399
Victoria, Portuguese School (Mixed),...
46
38
25
English School (Boys),.
31
17
"
33
(Girls),.
30
26
28.68
38.59 26.00 40.41
41.68 25.22 42.33 36.73 26.62 14.74 23.58 20.74 23.61 27.66 25.37
31.47
287
251
265
264
i
· NAME OF SCHOOL.
Class of School.
No. of Scholars Pre-
sented.
No. of Scholars Exam-.
TABLE XIII.-RESULTS of the EXAMINATION of the GRANT-IN-AID SCHOOLS in 1886, under the provisions of the Scheme of 15th September, 1883.
Number of Scholars who Passed. No. of Scholars who Failed. Į
Į
|
Sums to which the School is entitled.
ined.
Standard I.
Standard II.
Standard II).
Standard IV.
Standard V.
Standard VI.
Standard I.
Standard 11.
Standard III.
Standard IV.
16.-
>>
17. ---
18.--
19.--
""
"
""
20. -
??
Stanley School, (Girls)...
21.--
Shaukiwán, (Girls),..
22.-L. M. S. Hollywood Road (Boys),
23.-
7
Wántsai, (Boys),
221.-
25.-
26.-
27.-
>>
Yaumáti, (Boys),
""
Shekt'ongtsui (Boys),
"
Satyingp'ún I Division, (Boys),
II
(Boys),
11
28.
Hunghom, (Boys),
29.-
""
Shektongtsui, (Girls),
30,-
"1
Aberdeen Street, (Girls), ·
31.-
บ
Kau-u-fong, (Girls),.
32.
"
Ship Street, (Girls),
Yaumati, (Girls),.
24.
11
Stanley Street, (Girls),
Lower Lascar Row, (Girls),
""
36,---
"
Tanglungehan, (Girls),
39
38.
39,---
40.---
41,--
,,
+
11
"
Salyingpún First Street, (Girls), Wantsui,
Staunton Street, Upper School, (Girls), Lower School, (Girls), 42.---R. Č. Mission, Cathedral School (Boys), 48.-Wesleyan Mission, Spring Gardens, (Boys), 4.- Wellington Street (Boys),
45.-~ 46.-Basel Mission, High Street (Girls), 47.-Berlin Mission (Girls), «
19
11
,
11
Taip ingshan Chapel, (Girls),.
1.- American Board Mission, Bridges' Street (Boys),.
2.
"
>>
4.
19
"
כי
""
11
Station Terrace, (Boys),
East Street, (Boys), Hinglung Lane, (Boys),.·
Queen's Road West, (Boys), .
6.-Basel Mission, Shamshuipò, (Boys), 7.-C. M. S. St. Stephen's I Division, (Boys),
༢-
35
9.-
>>
10.-
11.-
12.-
13.-
14.
""
3.
""
13
II
(Boys), Lyndhurst Terrace, (Boys),..
D'Aguilar Street, (Boys),
Saiyingp'ún (Boys),
St. Stephen's Baxter Memorial, (Girls), Lyndhurst Terrace, (Girls),
Third Street, (Girls),...
15.-F. E. S. Bonham Road, (Girls),
High Street, (Girls),.......
Queen's Road, (Girls),
Hollywood Road, (Girls), .
D'Aguilar Street (Boys),
1+
"+
(Girls),
48.--Diocesan Home and Orphanage, (Boys),.
IV
49. --R. C. Mission, St. Joseph's College, Chinese Division (Boys),..
50.--
**
European,
(Boys),.. IV
51.
52-
53.--
Italian Convent (Girls),..
}}
}}
51.-
Bridges' Street, Portuguese School, (Mixed),. St. Francis Chapel, Portuguese School, (Mixed).. Victoria, Portuguese School, (Mixed),.
IV
IV
་་་་་
English
(Boys),
IV
SH.-
(Girls),
IV
---EE 2 RRRRRRRE
36
14
2
7
IV
83
38 25
13
113
110
24
22
21
IV
11
9
IV
10
10
4
9
8
11
3
11
≈ 3 8 ~***2=2aa=888887888÷$28*~*~*968H8R8°3% Z 828258A÷
8 * 2 * 88 ≈≈ 25**3=382=288283578-9882^2===58=88C=** * 8R8MNA92
57
42
28
33
*****
1
20 10
1
23
16
3
10 14
#
16
59
2
23
30
ོ ུ ལཚ
31
26
67.30
::
40
2
47.06
28
36.41
11
30
3
94.05
56
3
66.67
4
1
3
4
22.88
4
2 12
24
Ꭶ
1
32
1
51.60
96
e
ទ
20
11
40
10
62,31
18
80;
12
-18
12
2
3
#3
13
€8.00
24
23
25
31.21
32
३
31
43.83
20
8
21
8
24
11
23
38,46 16
33.01
33.75 22
16
44
5
23.81
18
25.85
18
20
24.95
8
10
12
25.47
10
12
13
18.07
6
28
19
22.10
10
7
18
21.82
14
36
17
21
36
4
82
97.01
34
81
Bichaa3:
:
:
:
:
Standard V.
Standard VT.
Total Passed.
Total Failed.
ance during School Average Daily Attend-
Year.
✪ ✪ * NË | Standard I.
Do us ho ho ho ho ho a A⠀⠀S NO 2 2 3 2 2 2 Standard II.
18
6
40
4
180
: MH8R 2 8 *:*:* 2 2 Standard III.
66
20
: & : 1392 :2228
****** :*
Standard IV.
: Standard V.
Standard VI.
Good.
Very
Good.
Fair.
Needle Work.
Capitation Grant.
Total Grant earned in
1886.
Amount due to
Teacher.
Amount due to
Manager.
67.30
209.30
52.32
156.08
47.06
237.06
59.26
177.80
36.41
174.41
43.60
130.81
34.05
170.05
42.51
127.54
10
66.67
352.67 88.16
264.51
22.98
36.38
9,00
27.29
51.60
195.60 48.90 146.70
(2.81
68.00
226.31
328.09
31.21 135,21 33.80
56.57 169.74
$2.02
246.07
101.41
43.83
175.83 43.05
131.88
9.00
38.65
185.65
46.41
139.24
60
3.00
33.01
192.01
48.00
144.01
58
1.50
33.75 173.25
43.31
129.94
20
1.50
23.81 87.31
21.82
65.49
30
1.50
25.85 120.35 30.08
99.z7
34
3.00
30
10.50
24.95 166.95 41.73 25.47 103.97 .25.99
125.22
77.08
24
8.00
18.07
103.07
25.76
77.31
30
22
10.50
22.10
138,60
34.65
103.95
12
36
1.50
21.82
121.32 30.33
90,99
216
40
97.04
507,04
126.76
380.28
9
12
60
8
63.96 18 156
72
63.96
369,96
77,49
232.47
29
32
7
40.10.
116
18
40.10
*165.39
41.34
124,05
32
16
50
52.36
128
96
13
15
40
20
56,63 22
52
90
3
28
13
45
5
54,64
6
112
78
11
8
26
4
40,90 22
28
48
5
2
17
20.35 12
20
12
12
3
33
40,88
8 36
72
32.
6
46
53.68
14
68
26
104
30
10
34
37.01 10
40
102
16
4
12.00
2
12
19
27.46
4
40
42
15
21.17
32
2
18
19
34.10 12
40
12
10
99.33 18
44
78
35
40,22 26
68
14
7
50
59.23
18
56
96
15
22,45
6
28
12
10
24
7
32.46
40
42
23
5
31.87 14
56
12
17
12
85.24
44
36
2
64
11
89.06
10
144
114
7
2
15,41
24
B
42
52.18 81
35
56
33
20
1
:
82
2
76
waleneb:
108
2
54
33
20
25
D
17
2
KHALI ANA ~ -
33.90 12
49
40
52.76
42
40 80
102.05
228
200
130
190.57
144
176
210
113.01
66
72
110
144
50.95
60
80
80
31.47
24
72
40
36.73
48
88 50
20.74
24
20
25.37
88
80
::: 5:28¤: 8: : .F^: ***::
60
140
126
28
42
42
: (88 : : : : :ÑA8 18 : : : :FSKÉ :98** :83
86
12.
60 82
50 84
28 32
16t 124 16t
102
32 118
*::*::
: AGK:::SHRAPA88: 285: :::.
52.36 292.36
73,09
219.27
56.63
228.63
57.15
171.48
54.64
258.64
64.66.
193.98
40.90
138.90
34.72
104.18
10,50
20,35
126.85
31,71
95.14
9.00
40,88
304.88
76.22
228.66
70
15.00
53.68
$92.68 08:17
294,51
13.50
17
37.01
235.51
58.87
176,64
2
12.00
* 43.70
10.92
32.78
30
7,50
2
27.46
152.96
38.24
114.72
30
3.00
21.17
130.17 32.54
97.63
40
16,50
34.10
162.60
40.65
121.95
13,50
39.33
314.83
78.70
230.13
46
12.00
6
40.22
248.22
€2.05
186.17
94 10.50
1
69.23
436.73
109.18
327.55
26
60
9.00
1.50
22.45
127.45
31.96
95.59
32.46 243.96
60.99
182,97
31.87 113.87 28.40
85.41
35.24
115.24
28.81
88.43
89.06
389.06
97.26
291.80
12
15.41
57:41
14.35
43.06
1.50
52.18
476.68
119.17
357.51
14
18.00
33.00
393.90 98.47
295.43
62.76
414.70
103.69
311.07
102.05 660.65 100.57 $1,280,57
165.16 493.40
320.14
960.48
40
4.50
1.50
118.01 785.51
196 87
589.14
50.05
378.45 94.11
282.84
80
20
4,50
31.47 60.11 240,47
36.73 58.68 234,73 20.74 120.74 30.18 25.37 52.40 200,87
180.86
176.05
90.56
157.41
TOTA
$14,324.76 3,580.89 10,743.77
* Extra Subject. † Reduction of 5 per cent, in accordance with Rule No. 3 of Grant-in-Aid Code. See C.S.O. No. 768 of 1886.
353
-354
TABLE XIV.-Percentage of SCHOLARS who passed in the. GRANT-IN-AID SCHOOLS during the last two Years.
No..
Name of School.
1886.
1885.
Increase.
Decrease.
123
1 American Board Mission, Bridges Street (Boys),
54.38
87.75
33.37
35
>
Station Terrace (Boys),.
95.23
95.45
0.22
ور
39
East Street (Boys),
100.00
96.96
3.04
وو
33
Hinglung Lane (Boys),...
90.90
"2
>"
Queen's Road West (Boys),
94.91
92.85
2.06
9
6 Basel Mission, Shamshuipò School (Boys), 7 C. M. S., St. Stephen's I Division (Boys),
8
Lyndhurst Terrace (Boys),
100.00
97.57
75.00
22.57
II
(Boys),
80.00
90.24
10.24
80.30
88.67
8.37
10
">
D'Aguilar Street (Boys),
92.59
93.33
0.74
11
""
Saiyingp'ún (Boys),
88.57
92.30
3.73
12
St. Stephen's Baxter Memorial (Girls),
100.00
87.09
12.91
13
22
Lyndhurst Terrace (Girls),
70.58
92.00
21.42
14
"
Third Street (Girls),....
79.31
100.00
20.69
16
17
18
"5
19
20
21
"
15 F. E. S., Bonham Road (Girls),
Hight Street (Girls),.......... Queen's Road (Girls), Hollywood Road (Girls), D'Aguilar Street (Girls), Stanley School (Girls),.. Shaukiwan (Girls),
22 L. M. S., Hollywood Road (Boys),
45.45
83.33
37.88
78.26
81.81
3.55
90.90
90.47
0.43
45.45
100.00
54.55
92.85
83.33
9.52
95.00
68.18
26.82
90.00
......
92.13
100.00
7.87
23
""
Wantsai (Boys),
88.23
92.00
3.77
24
""
Yaumati (Boys),
82.05
60.00
22.05
25
>>
Shekt'ongtsui (Boys),
98.04
88.88
9.16
26
22
Saiyingp'ún I Division (Boys),
66.66
85.37
18.71
27
II
""
12
79
(Boys),
90.00
.75.61
14.39
28
??
Hunghòm (Boys),.
86.66
94.44
7.78
29
33
Shekt'ongtsui (Girls),
100.00
93.75
6.25
30
""
Aberdeen Street (Girls),
76.74
87.80
11.06
31
32
33
""
34
A
35
>>
A
22
Kau-ü-fong (Girls),
Ship Street (Girls),
Yaumati (Girls),
Stanley Street (Girls),
Lower Lascar Row (Girls),
90.19
88.88
1.31
89.47
83.78
5.69
100.00
70.00
30.00
90.47.
80.77
9.70
100.00
36
>>
Tanglungchau (Girls),
61.29
80.95.
19.66
37
""
Taipingshan Chapel (Girls),
97.56
76.92
20.64
38
""
Saiyingp'ún, First Street (Girls),
87.50
96.29
8.79
39
25
Wantsai (Girls),
87.72
82.14
5.58
40
41
Staunton Street, Upper School (Girls), Lower School (Girls),
75.00
100.00
25.00
77.42
65.38
12.04
44
45
>>
42 R. C. M., Cathedral School (Boys),....... 43 Wesleyan Mission, Spring Gardens (Boys),
Wellington Street (Boys), (Girls),
82.14
96.43
14.29
58.62
85.33
85.85
0.52
77.77
62.96
14.81
..
48 Diocesan Home and Orphanage (Boys),
46 Basel Mission, High Street (Girls),
47 Berlin Mission (Girls),
49 R. C. M., St. Joseph's College, Chinese Division (Boys),
100.00
97.22
3.78
97.05
100.00
2.95
94.11
88.88
5.23
.95.00
96.96
1.96
50
99
European Division (Boys),
98.18
94.30
3.38
51
3.
Italian Convent (Girls),
90.00
88.40
1.60
52
>>
Bridges Street, Portuguese School (Mixed),..
100.00
100.00
53
×
.54
""
St. Francis Chapel, Portuguese School (Mixed),... Victoria, Portuguese School (Mixed),
74.07
78.94
86.12
· 90.90
4.87
55
56
39
29
English School (Boys), (Girls),
90.00
88.88
4.78
89.47
80.00
9.47
TABLE XV.--PERCENTAGE of PASSES in the various subjects in which the GRANT-IN-AID SCHOOLS were examined in 1886.
355
Class of
School.
Name of School.
Writing, Reading. or Com- position.
Arith- Gram- Geogra- metic. mar. phy.
History.
Repeti- Expla- Compo- tion. nation. sition.
I.
American Board Mission, Bridges Street (Boys),..
92.98 42.10
100.00
100.00 93.75 100.00
";
•
"
"?
"
",
"
31
Station Terrace (Boys), East Street (Boys), Hing-lung Lane (Boys),
95.23
82.22
97.61
100.00
92.85
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
87.87
100.00 100.00
""
Queen's Road West (Boys):
100.00
84.74
98.30 100.00
21
Basel Mission, Shamshuipò School (Boys),. C. M. S., St. Stephen's I. Division (Boys),
Lyndhurst Terrace (Boys),`
86.66
93.33
100.00
100.00
87.87
100.00
100.00
100.00 100.00
II.
وو
(Boys),
98.14
72.22
100.00
96.96
77.28
86.66
D'Aguilar Street (Boys),
96.29
74.07
Saiyingp'ún (Boys),.
100.00
88.57
100.00
100.00
100.00 95.24 33.33
100.00 93.75 50.50
96.29 100.00
100.00 100.00
St. Stephen's Baxter Memorial (Girls),
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
""
"
Lyndhurst Terrace (Girls),
94.11
67.64
80.00
100.00 100.00
Third Street (Girls),
100.00
81.25
100.00
100.00 100.00
F. E. S., Bonham Road (Girls),
100.00
45.45
100.00
100.00 100.00 100.00
27
"1
"
"
"
High Street (Girls), Queen's Road (Girls). Hollywood Road (Girls),
95.83
83.33
75.00
100.00 100.00
100.00
77.27
100.00
100.00 100.00
100.00 45.45
100.00.
100.00 100.00
**
"
"
>>
27
D'Aguilar Street (Girls), Stanley School (Girls), Shaukiwán (Girls),
100.00 85,71
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
90.00
100.00
100.00 100.00
100.00 85.00
100.00 100.00
*
L. M. S., Hollywood Road (Boys),
100.00
98.87
100.00
100.00 90.00
92.85
">
Wántsai (Boys),
100.00 82.35
100.00
100.00
40.00
"
Yaumáti (Boys),.
97.43
71.79
Failed
97.43 87.50
100.00
Shekt'ongtsui (Boys),
98.04 98.04
100.00
100.00 100.00
100.00
"
Saiyingp'ún I. Division (Boys),
78.33
70.00
100.00
100.00 100.00
100.00
II.
*
"
(Boys),
98.00
86.00
100.00
100.00
100.00 100.00
་ད
Hunghom (Boys),
100.00
$6.66
100.00
100.00
*
""
Shekt ongtsui (Girls),
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00 100.00
"!
"
Aberdeen Street (Girls),
100.00
67.44
100.00
100.00
96.55 100.00
"
""
Kau U-fong (Girls),
98.04
90.19
100.00
100.00 100.00
"
Ship Street (Girls),
100.00
89.47
100.00
100.00 100.00
"
""
Yaumáti (Girls).....
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00 100.00 100.00
""
::
Stanley Street (Girls),
95.65
86.95
100.00 100.00
**
"
Lower Lascar Row (Girls),
100.00
93.33
100.00
.100.00 100.00
**
>>
Tanglungchau (Girls),
96 77
45.16
100.00
100.00 100.00
Failed
""
>>
Taipingshan Chapel (Girls).
100.00
97.56
100.00
100.00 100.00
>>
"
Saiyingp'un, First Street (Girls),
95.00 90.00
100.00
100.00 100.00
""
"
Wantsai (Girls),
98.24 78.94
100.00
100.00 100.00 100.00
>>
12
Staunton Street, Upper School (Girls),.
100.00 70.00
100.00
Lower
"!
11
(Girls),
100,00
$3.87
92.30
100.00 90.00
100.00 95.24
R. C. M., Cathedral School (Boys),.
100.00
57.14
Failed
100.00 $3.33 Failed
"
27
*
Wesleyan Mission, Spring Gardens (Boys),
Wellington Street (Boys),
"
93.10 51.72
98.66 77.33
100.00
100.00
(Girls),
100.00 66.66
96.55 100.00
100.00
100.00 100.00
100.00
III.
Basel Mission, High Street (Girls),.
100.00 100.00
97.62
100.00 100.00
IV.
Berlin Mission (Girls),
100.00 94.11
82.35
100.00 100.00
#
95
"
"
23
23
";
??
""
"
""
12
>>
Diocesan Home and Orphanage (Boys).
R.C.M., St. Joseph's College Chinese Division (Boys),
Italian Convent (Girls), Bridges Street, Portuguese School (Mixed), St. Francis' Chapel, Por. School (Mixed), Victoria, Portuguese School (Mixed),
English School (Boys),
97.05
93.10
97.05
95.24
84.61 100.00
96.38
96.38
100.00
100.00
European
12
(Boys),
100.00
95.45
99.12
90.77
97.72
98.38
91.49
91.93
100.00
100.00
100.00
96.43
87.87 100.00
100.00
- 29
(Girls),
100.00 100.00 96.55 100.00 100,00 100.00 93.33
87.50
70.37 100.00 37.50 86.12 85.71 100.00 100.00 85.71 100.00
89.47 85.71 100.00. 100.00
:
J
100.00
100.00
87.50
75.00
95.83
73.33
100,00
100.00
80.00
75.00
TABLE XVI-NUMBER of UNEDUCATED CHILDREN in the Colony in 1886.
Number of Children (6 to 16 years of age) in the Colony, say..
18,200
As attending 90 Schools under Government supervision in 1886, say
5,844
As attending 111 Private Schools, not under Government supervision in 1886, say
2,218
8,062
Number of Uneducated Children in the Colony in 1886, say
... 10,138
E. J. EITEL, M.A., PH. D.,
Inspector of Schools.
ī
173
No.
40
1886.
:
HONGKONG.
MINUTE BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE OFFICER ADMINISTERING THE GOVERNMENT
ON THE ESTIMATES FOR 1887.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 17th September, 1886.
W. H. MARSH,
Administering the Government.
I lay before the Council the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure for 1887, together with an explanatory report by the Honourable Acting Colonial Secretary and Auditor General.
2. The Revenue for 1887 has been estimated at $1,291,270 which I do not think too high. The Revenue of 1885 was $1,251,889 and a revised Estimate of the Revenue of the present year gives the amount of $1,304,263.
3. It is estimated that there will be a balance on hand in the Colony at the beginning of next year of $184,783, and it may appear singular that with so large a balance a sum of $400,000 is shown as borrowed on account of the loan during the present year. The reason is that large payments have to be made at home by the Crown Agents, the average of the past five years being over £80,000, and the payments during 1885, having amounted to £122,600. The investments of assets in England having been exhausted the Crown Agents have in anticipation of the Loan advanced the sum of £60,000, at the Bank rates instead of drawing on the Colony. In the meantime a considerable portion of the surplus funds in the Colony has been placed in deposit bearing interest.
4. I have estimated that a further amount of $600,000, on account of the loan will be required in 1887, the whole of which will be required for payments at home.
5. The expenditure of 1887 has been estimated at $1,245,434. That of 1885 was $1,146,103, and that of the present year is now estimated at $1,193,472.
6. The excesses in the estimates of 1887, over those of the present year, are shewn in detail in a statement prepared by the Acting Colonial Secretary and Auditor General. They are summarised as follows:-
Interest on Loan,
Military Expenditure, Salaries, Services exclusive,
Roads, Streets, and Bridges,.
$55,000
19,048
10,929
7,000
7. Interest on the loan is the principal item in the increase over this year's Estimates, and the anticipations of the Special Committee of the Legislative Council on the recently proposed Stamp Bill in April last that this extra expenditure could be met without extra taxation have. fortunately thus far been realized.
8. The next item in importance amongst the increases is $19,000 for Military expenditure, being the difference between 3/6 and 3/ in the rate of exchange. The rate has risen since the Estimates were prepared. The annual contribution of £20,000 for Military expenditure has now been paid and since 1864 at the current rates of exchange which assuming the par value of the sovereign to be five dollars have been advantageous to the Colony until 1876, the sovereign having at one time been as low as $4.50.
9. The amount provided for Extraordinary Public Works is $760,000. For this year provision was originally made for $579,800, but it is probable that about $756,000 will be expended, the construction of Military Defences having been carried out with greater expedition than was originally contemplated. Only $52,000 was provided for this purpose during the present year whereas it is probable that $218,000 will be expended.
10. The details of the increases to salaries will be seen in the Statement of the Acting Colonial Secretary and Auditor General.
Government House, Hongkong, 17th September, 1886.
1
No. 1.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 7th January, 1887.
105
ν
C.S.O. 1716 of 1886.
C.O.D.
66 of 1886,
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Chief Justice (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.).
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD).
""
""
the Surveyor. General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
>>
39
WONG SHING.
))
""
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN.
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER.
ABSENT:
The Honourable the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER), on leave.
""
JOHN BELL-IRVING, on leave.
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary... The Report of the proceedings of the last Meeting, held on the 26th November last, being taken as read, is confirmed.
·Telegraph Line connecting Observatory with Time-Ball.
(1.). Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:-
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $300 for the erection of a detached Telegraph line to connect the Observatory with the Time- Ball Tower.
The Director of the Observatory having represented that the present line, which is affixed to the same posts which carry other lines for Police, Telegraph, is sometimes defective for the purpose of dropping the Time-Ball, a new line well insulated and supported on separate poles is now proposed.
Government House, Hongkong, 7th January, 1887.
After some explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
Increase to Salary of Inspector of Schools.
(2.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern- ment, and the papers in connection therewith:-
*
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government lays before the Council an application for increase of salary by the Inspector of Schools, who has represented that, as shown by the published Annual Reports on Education, his duties have been doubled since 1878, when he joined the service; whilst his emoluments are smaller than those of the Second Master of the Central School, and are not larger than those of the Third Master.
106
The Secretary of State to whom this application has been referred, recognizing that the work of the Inspector of Schools has considerably increased, is prepared to approve an increase not exceeding $600 a year to the salary of his appointment, and the Officer Administering the Government requests the Council to vote this amount for 1887.
Government House, Hongkong, 7th January, 1887.
After some explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
List of Extraordinary Public Works.
Mr. MACEWEN enquired whether the list of Extraordinary Public Works for this year, promised by the Surveyor General, was ready.
The Surveyor General replied that the list was ready, and that a copy of it would be sent to each Member of the Finance Committee before the next meeting.
The Committee then adjourned sine die.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 14th January, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 21st day of January, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
!
No. 2.
107
C.S.O. 2658 of 1886.
C.S.O.
151 of 1887.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG, On the 21st January, 1887.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Chief Justice (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.).
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD).
"
""
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING.
"}
>>
'ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN.
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER.
ABSENT:
The Honourable the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE), by leave.
""
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N., by leave.
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Report of the proceedings of the last Meeting, held on the 7th instant, being taken as read, is confirmed.
Steam-Launch Victoria.
(1.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to re-vote the sum of $19,000, for the construction of a Steam-tug to remove rubbish.
This sum was voted in last year's Estimates, but not expended, as the work was not then finished. Accounts have been presented for the payment of a portion of this work, and the balance will be required in March.
Government House, Hongkong, 17th January, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
Retaining Wall, Civil Hospital.
(2.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to re-vote the sum of $8,950, being the balance of $11,500 voted by the Council on the 19th of November last for the construction of a retaining-wall along the northern face of the cliff upon which the Govern- ment Hospital buildings are built. Only $2,550 of this vote were spent during last year. A further sum of $5,000 is now due, and the remainder will be required shortly.
Government House, Hongkong, 20th January, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 28th January, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 11th day of February, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
*
No. 3.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 11th February, 1887.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Chief Justice (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.).
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (Edward James ACKROYD).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
109
>>
""
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING.
>>
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN.
""
وو
ABSENT:
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER.
The Honourable the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER), by leave.
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Report of the proceedings of the last Meeting, held on the 21st ultimo, being taken - as read, is confirmed.
Village Taxes.
Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:-
W. H. MARSH.
- Mis. Doc.
1357 of 1886, and
30 of 1887.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $816 to defray the expenses of collecting Village Taxes and Squatters' Licence Fees, by the Treasury.
This service, which has hitherto been performed by the Registrar General's Department, is now to be carried on by the Treasury:-
A Shroff,
An Assistant Shroff, A Coolie,
Indian Constable,
Contingencies,
$240.00 per annum.
180.00
108.00
188.00
>>
100.00
$ 816.00
The sum of $613 will be saved in the Registrar General's Department, and is, therefore, a transfer vote. The remaining $203 is the additional sum required.
Government House, Hongkong, 4th February, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
1
༣་
+
I
FREDERICK STEWART,
-
Chairman.
•
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 4th March, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 15th day of February, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
>
No. 4.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A SPECIAL MEETING HELD IN THE SANITARY BOARD ROOM, HONGKONG,
On the 15th February, 1887.
11.1
I
C.S.O.
940 of 1887.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Chief Justice (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.).
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD).
དཱ་
::
:
*
**
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE).
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN.
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER.
The Committee meet this day pursuant to notice.
The Report of the proceedings of the last Meeting, held on the 11th instant, are read, and confirmed.
Read the following Minutes in connection with the new Central Market project:--
HON. COLONIAL SECRETARY,
NEW CENTRAL MARKET.
Minute by the Hon, the Surveyor General.
The acquisition of Marine Lot 18 has always been a desideratum in connection with the new Central Market project in order to enable a square or rectangular shaped Market to be built instead of a wedge shaped structure, and also in order to admit of the construction of a public street from the Queen's Road to the Praya on each side of the proposed new building. The enormous cost however of Lot 18 coupled with the indecision of the P. and O. Directors as to its disposal, have until recently stood in the way of the Government project to purchase it, but the matter has more recently become simplified by an expression on the part of Mr. WOODIN to sell while at the same time an offer has been made to the Government from a private quarter to purchase such portions of the lot as will not be required for the extension of the Market.
Mr. WOODIN asks for the whole of Lot 18 the sum of $335,016 plus 5,000 square feet of Crosby's Store Praya side, while on the other hand, the Government will be able to sell the residue of the lot not required for this same sum of $335,016.
The lot contains 56,541 square feet. Of this area the Government will retain 16,000 square feet, and sell 40,541 square feet.
In other words, the Government will acquire the lot without paying more than the 5,000 square feet of Crosby's store, and for this consideration it will receive 16,000 square feet of land equally valuable.
14th February, 1887.
J. M. PRICE.
Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government.
This proposal seems to me to be undoubtedly a most advantageous one to Government. 2. Government requires land for the extension of the Central Market. The P. & O. Company offer to sell their Marine Lot No. 18, which is much larger than the Government requires, but the Company wish to sell the whole lot and not a portion.
3. The proposal made by the Company is to exchange with Government the site on which their Offices stand, five thousand square feet, for an equivalent area of Government property known as Crosby's Store, and to sell the rest of their Lot to Government, 51,541 square feet, for the sum of $335,016.
:
112
C.S.O.
4. The Government will thus acquire the whole of Lot 18, measuring 56,541 square feet for $335,016 plus 5,000 square feet taken from Crosby's Store Lot.
2591 of 1886.
5. Of this 56,541 square feet, Government requires only 16,000 feet for the Market, and for the remaining 40,541 square feet it has an offer of $335,016, the same amount which it will have to pay for the whole lot, minus 5,000 feet, for which an exchange of an equivalent area of land is stipulated. Thus the Government will pay the P. & O. Company with the money received from the purchaser of the 40,541 square feet, and will obtain 16,000 square feet in exchange for 5,000, and will thus gain 11,000 square feet of land adjacent to the Central Market for nothing.
6. If this transaction is completed, it is understood that Government will make public streets on the East and West sides of the Market, with gates therein. The Market will then be bounded by Public Streets on all four sides.
7. If the Executive Council approve of this proposal, I will telegraph to the Secretary of State at once, and ask for authority to carry out the arrangement, which must be concluded before Wednesday morning.
8. Upon the Members of the Executive Council agreeing, a meeting of Finance Committee should be summoned for Tuesday at 4 P.M. (after the Mail), and this Minute should be laid before it. If the Finance Committee agree as well as the Executive Council, I shall probably by that time have authority from the Secretary of State to close with the offer at once.
14th February, 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
The Acting Colonial Secretary informs the Council that the Executive Council unanimously approve of this transaction; and that a telegram has been received from the Secretary of State approving of the project.
After further explanation by the Surveyor General, the Committee are unanimously of opinion that the project should be approved and recommend the acquisition of Marine Lot 18 on the terms mentioned in the foregoing Minutes.
NEW WESTERN MARKET.
The Surveyor General, in accordance with instructions from His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, lays upon the table the papers connected with the project for the reclamation of a site for a proposed new Western Market opposite the Sailors' Home, and after explaining that the cost of this work, which was $70,000, could be spread over two years and defrayed from moneys to be realised from the Crown Lands, he invited on behalf of His Excellency an expression of opinion from the Committee as to whether the project was one which they would recommend His Excellency to carry out.
The Committee are unanimously of opiniou that the project should be approved, and recommend that it should be realised in the manner suggested.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
►
Read and confirmed this 18th day of February, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
+
.
No. 5.
113
C.5.0. 404 of 1887.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 18th February, 1887.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Chief Justice (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.).
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD).
>>
>>
"">
"
"}
">
33
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED Lister).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN.
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER.
ABSENT:
The Honourable HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N., by leave.
The Committee meet at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Report of the proceedings of the Special Meeting, held on the 15th instant, are read and confirmed.
Street Cleansing.
Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $1,800 for the employment of six foremen of Street cleansing.
The Secretary to the Sanitary Board reports that on the 5th November last authority was requested from the Government to employ 6 men as foremen of Street cleansing. This authority was granted till the end of December, and a report on the result of their employment requested. On the 28th December authority was requested to continue the services of the men for the month of January, before the end of which month the report asked for by His Excellency the Acting Governor would be submitted. The authority asked for was granted.
During the six weeks the men were employed in November and December last a very marked improvement was observable in the manner in which the work of surface cleansing was carried out.
The Sanitary Board, at a meeting held on the 11th instant, unanimously resolved that a letter should be addressed to the Government recommending the permanent employment of the six foremen of Street cleansing who were engaged temporarily in November last year.
The subject will be reconsidered, when the new Sanitary Ordinance has passed; and a vote
is now asked to pay the salaries of these men up to the end of the present year.
Government House, Hongkong, 18th February, 1887.
After explanations by the Acting Colonial Secretary and Mr. MACEWEN, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
.
-
:
L
:
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 4th March, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 4th day of March, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
No. 6.
115
C.S.O. 367 of 1887,
C.S.O.
455 of 1887.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 4th March, 1887.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Chief Justice (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.).
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD).
19
""
""
""
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN.
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER.
ABSENT:
The Honourable the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE), by leave.
""
PHINEAS RYRIE, by leave.
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
:
The Report of the proceedings of the Meeting held on the 18th ultimo, being taken as read, is confirmed.
ment:
Assistant Gaol Hospital Warder.
(1.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $60 being the stipulated increment to the Assistant Warder in the Gaol Hospital, whose salary was $25 rising to $35 per month.
Through some misapprehension the increase was not put down in the Colonial Estimates for this year.
Government House, Hongkong, 1st March, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
Extension of the Cattle Market.
(2.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:-
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to re-vote the sum of $660 being the balance due to the Contractor for the Extension of the Cattle Market at Kennedy Town, for which work a sum of $10,000 was voted in 1886.
The amount for which the Contractor undertook to perform this work was $8,133, of which sum only $7,473 were paid in 1886, leaving a balance of $660 due, for which it is necessary to ask the Council for a vote, as the provision made for this object last year has lapsed.
Government House, Hongkong, 3rd March, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 11th March, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 11th day of March, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
No. 7.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 11th March, 1887.
PRESENT:
કરો
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Chief Justice (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.).
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (Edward JAMES ACKROYD).
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
ŵ
>>
>>
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE).
2)
>>
WONG SHING.
"?
JOHN BELL-IRVING.
>>
PHINEAS RYRIE.
117
C.S.O.
410 of 1887.
>>
>>
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN.
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER..
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Report of the proceedings of the Meeting held on the 4th instant, being taken as read, is confirmed.
Temporary Inspector of Nuisances.
Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:—
W. H. MARSH.
In November, 1885, during the Cattle Epidemic, it was found necessary to provide for the inspection of all cattle arriving in the Colony. For this purpose one of the Inspectors of Nuisances (Inspector RAE) was transferred from the Sanitary Department, and a temporary Inspector of Nuisances was appointed in his place. This temporary Inspector of Nuisances will be required, until the appointment of a Veterinary Surgeon enables Inspector RAE to return to his proper duties.
The Officer Administering the Government therefore recommends the Council to vote the following sums :-
Salary, for 12 months, at $60 per month,
Allowance for Rent at $15 per month,..
$720.00 180.00
Allowance for Chair in Summer, at $12 per month, for 5 months, 60.00
$ 960.00
No provision was made for this service in the Estimates for 1887, as the Veterinary Surgeon has not been appointed, and his salary has not yet been ascertained.
Government House, Hongkong, 10th March, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted..
The Committee then adjourn sine die,
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 18th March, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 25th day of March, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
+
No. 8.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 25th March, 1887.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Chief Justice (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.).
The Honourable the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN.
ABSENT:
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (Edward James ACKROYD).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE).
*
?
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
2)
WONG SHING.
>>
119
C.S.O.
696 of 1987.
>>
JOHN BELL-IRVING.
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER.
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Report of the proceedings of the Meeting held on the 11th instant, being taken as read, is confirmed.
Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
W. H. MARSH.
Chinese correspondence having increased very much of late, especially registered letters from America, the duties of the Senior Postman, who has to distribute all registered letters and obtain signatures to receipts, are now more than one man can accomplish in the course of a day.
The Officer Administering the Government, on the representation of the Postmaster General, recommends the Council to vote a sum of $80 to meet the salary of another Postman at the rate of $10 per month from 1st of April next.
Government House, Hongkong, 22nd March, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 1st April, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 1st day of April, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
:
1
No. 9.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 1st April, 1887.
121
C.S.O.
.469 of 1887.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Kat.). The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD). the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
35
""
21
""
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING,
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Report of the proceedings of the Meeting held on the 25th ultimo, being taken as read, is confirmed.
(1.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:-
W. H. MARSH.
The_Steam-launch Stanley (formerly Victoria) being about to be handed over to the Sanitary Department to be used as a Tug-boat to remove rubbish and dredgings, it is necessary to provide for the pay of the crew, and other contingent expenses of the launch.
The Officer Administering the Government therefore recommends the Council to vote the following sums:-
Engineer at $30 per month, 10 months,
$ 300.00
Fireman at $15
150.00
""
"}
Coxswain at $10
100.00
"
""
3 Sailors at $ 7 each
210.00
""
""
$ 760.00
Coal, Oil, Water, &c. for 10 months,
Moorings,....
3,130.00
25.00
$3,915.00
The Surveyor General will make arrangements with the Conservancy Contractors to refund a portion of the expenses incurred by the tug-boat, and this will be accounted for as Revenue on account of conservancy.
Government House, Hongkong, 31st March, 1887.
After deliberation, it is decided that the question be referred to the Surveyor General for a report.
2
122
.C.S.O.
795 of 1887.
(2.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:-
W. H. MARSH.
-
When the Green Island Light-house was built, it was thought that it would meet all requirements, if a native or a coloured man were placed in charge of the light. A very small house with two rooms was therefore deemed sufficient by way of quarters; but, subsequently, a European was put in charge, and there has been ever since one continuous complaint about the inadequacy of the house.
}
As a new roof will be required to the building, the Surveyor General has suggested that this opportunity should be availed of to make certain extensions, the cost of which would amount to $1,500.
sum.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the above.
Government House, Hongkong, 31st March, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 7th April, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 7th day of April, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
No. 10.
123
C.S.0. 433 of 1887.
C.S.O.
794 of 1887.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG, On the 7th April, 1887.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD).
2)
21
>>
27
>>
>>
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFREd Lister).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Report of the proceedings of the Meeting held on the 1st instant, being taken as read, is confirmed.
New Western Market.
(1.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:-
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government has received a proposal from the Surveyor General, which has been strongly supported by the Sanitary Board, for the reclamation of a piece of ground opposite the Sailors' Home, measuring 74,000 square feet in extent, destined, when completed, for the construction thereon of a new Western Market. The cost of this reclamation and of a Praya or Retaining Wall is estimated at $73,000, and the value of the ground to be reclaimed is estimated at $370,000. The work will require two years to complete it. The Officer Administering the Government proposes that the necessary money for this work should be taken from the premia realized on sales of Crown Land which are not included in the Revenue receipts of the Colony. The Council are therefore requested to vote a sum of $35,000 to be taken from this source for defraying the cost of the portion of the work which will be executed this year.
The Finance Committee have already been consulted in this question, and have expressed the unanimous opinion that the project should be approved.
Government House, Hongkong, 6th April, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
ment:
Hunghòm Market.
(2.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to re-vote the sum of $6,000 for the construction of a Market at Hunghòm.
This sum was voted in last year's Estimates, but not expended, as the work was not then finished.
Government House, Hongkong, 7th April, 1887.
After explanation by the Surveyor General, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
"
124
C.S.C.
469 of 1887.
Steam-launch Stanley.
With reference to the vote of $3,915 per annum for the up-keep of this launch, the Surveyor General reports that the Conservancy Contractor asks to have the use of the launch for six weeks to enable him to estimate how much he would be able to contribute towards this expenditure.
The Committee recommend that the Contractor's request be granted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 15th April, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 22nd day of April, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
No. 11.
:
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 22nd April, 1887.
PRESENT:
125
C.S.O.
68 of 1887.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (Edward James ACKROYD).
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
17
"
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE).
"}
";
""
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Report of the proceedings of the Meeting held on the 7th instant, being taken as read, is confirmed.
Cattle Depôt.
(1.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:--
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $9,600 for the extension of the Cattle Depôt at Kennedy Town.
The present Depôt can accommodate 240 head of cattle intended to be slaughtered for the meat supply of the City; but the requirements of the town and of the shipping have grown so largely that the Acting Registrar General now states that the present accommodation is inadequate, and that room should be provided for at least 360 head of cattle.
A copy of a letter on this subject from the Surveyor General is annexed. Government House, Hongkong, 22nd April, 1887,
No. 9.
Enclosure.
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT,
HONGKONG, 10th January, 1887.
SIR,--Some years ago the Government built a Cattle Depôt at Kennedy Town destined to accommodate the cattle intended to be slaughtered for the meat supply of the City. It was stated at the time that room for 120 head of cattle would suffice, and that the market or depôt could be enlarged subsequently as the demands of the Colony increased.
*
2. Two years ago the question was again considered, and it was stated that accommodation should be provided for at least 240 head of cattle. Accordingly in 1885, the Government placed on the Colonial Estimates for 1886, a sum of $10,000 for this extension of the Depôt.
3. But the fact is the wants of the town and of the shipping are growing enormously from day to day, and the Registrar General now states that the recent extension is inadequate, and that room should be provided in the Depôt for at least 360 head of cattle.
4. Of the necessity for this further extension I myself can entertain no doubt, for, on a recent examination of the place, I saw many bullocks picketted outside, exposed to all weathers, for want of room in the sheds.
.
4
:
126
1
5. Cattle exposed in this unsheltered and somewhat inhuman manner are liable to contract disease, and as the Government now pays compensation for diseased cattle destroyed, there is always a risk of more or less heavy demands being made on the Colonial Treasury on this
account.
6. A further extension of the cattle sheds so as to enable them to hold 360 head, would involve an outlay of $9,600, and if this proposition were sanctioned, a special vote for this amount would have to be asked of the Legislative Council.
■
7. I ought, however, to mention that a balance has remained over of $1,840 from last year's vote of $10,000, so that if a special vote of $9,600 were now asked for, a proportion of $1,840 would in reality be nothing more than a re-vote, and it would only be the balance, ie., $7,760 that would represent new expenditure.
S. As a considerable revenue may be derived from this place if enlarged, the Government will doubtless have all the greater inducement to sanction a further extension of the accommo- dation. The 120 stalls proposed now to be added will bring in an additional $40 a month, representing a return of 5 per cent. on the outlay.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
&.c.,
&c.
Your obedient Servant,
J. M. PRICE. Surveyor General.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
ment:
Officers' Quarters, Stone Cutters' Island.
(2.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-1
W. H. MARSH.
C.S.0. 954 of 1887.
On the representation of the Surveyor General and the Harbour Master, that the Officers' Quarters at Stone Cutters' Island Magazine are now in such a state as to make any further postponement of repairs unsafe, the Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $2,000 to defray this service.
Government House, Hongkong, 22nd April, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 6th May, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 13th day of May, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
No. 12.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 13th May, 1887.
127
C.3.0.
D48 of 1887.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD),
11.
>>
""
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE).
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER), on duty.
>>
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave), on leave.
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary. The Report of the proceedings of the last Meeting held on the 22nd ultimo, having been taken as read, is confirmed.
Press for keeping Magistracy Records.
Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:
W. G. CAMERON.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $150 for the purpose of supplying to the Magistracy a Press for keeping Court Records, similar to one supplied in 1883.
Government House, Hongkong, 13th May, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 23rd May, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 23rd day of May, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
No. 13.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 23rd May, 1887.
129
C.S.O.
2853 of 1886.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD).
"7
19
""
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE), by indisposition.
PHINEAS RYRIE, on leave.
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
•
The Report of the proceedings of the last Meeting held on the 13th instant, having been taken as read, is confirmed.
Compensation to certain Owners of cultivated land at Deep Bay.
Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:-
W. G. CAMERON.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $600 to be distributed among the original owners of cultivated lands at Little Hongkong, by way of compensation for loss sustained by them, by the resumption of a portion of their ground, which was included in the large plot at Deep Bay recently sold.
The Officer Administering the Government, although 'not recognizing the right of these original owners to any compensation whatever, yet, under the particular circumstances of the case, and as a matter of charity, recommends that a gratuity be distributed among them, to be charged against Premia on Land sales.
Government House, Hongkong, 23rd May, 1887.
After explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 23rd May, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 8th day of July, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ,
--
Acting Clerk of Councils.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
"
:
..
·
·
4
No. 14.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 8th July, 1887.
131
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD).
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
11
"
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
>>
")
"}
"}
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Report of the proceedings of the last Meeting held on the 23rd May last, having been taken as read, is confirmed.
Richmond Road.
Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:-
W. G. CAMERON.
C.S.O.
1436 of 1887.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $5,000 to defray the cost of extending and completing Richmond Road beyond Richmond Terrace, and of developing and preparing further building sites, in that locality, for auction sale.
Government House, Hongkong, 23rd June, 1887.
After some explanation by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 22nd July, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 26th day of August, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ, Acting Clerk of Councils.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
་
✓
1
?
No. 15.
133
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG, On the 26th August, 1887.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD).
}:
;;
>>
")
>>
"}
**
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE).
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave).. ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Report of the proceedings of the last Meeting, held on the 8th July last, having been taken as read, is confirmed.
Cranks for the Victoria Gaol.
(1.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:-
W. G. CAMERON.
C.S.O.
690 of 1887.
C.S.O.
1769 of 1887.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $2,050 for the purchase of 50 Cranks for the use of prisoners in Victoria Gaol, as Crank labour is so much felt, and therefore so effective a deterrent to crime, and consequently so important a consideration, especially with our limited prison accommodation.
Government House, Hongkong, 23rd August, 1887.
After explanation by the Chairman, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
Municipal Valuer's Clerk.
(2.) Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:
W. G. CAMERON.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $120 for the salary of a Copying Clerk to the Municipal Valuer at the rate of $40 per month, for 3 months,
Government House, Hongkong, 23rd August, 1887.
......$
120.00
After the explanation given by the Chairman, the Committee recommend that the sum be
voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine dic.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 2nd September, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 9th day of September, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ.
Acting Clerk of Councils.
·
No. 16.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 9th September, 1887.
135
C.S.O. 1709 of 1887,
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), nice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt:, on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD).
**
>>
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE).
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (rice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON.
on leave).
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary. The Report of the proceedings of the last Meeting, held on the 26th August last. haying been taken as read, is confirmed.
Honorarium to Mr. Bruce Shepherd.
Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:-
W. G. CAMERON.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $1,000 as remuneration to Mr. BRUCE SHEPHERD, for services rendered by him in connection with the Land Commission.
Government House, Hongkong, 2nd September, 1887.
3
Mr. RYRIE asks whether there is any precedent for giving such a large sum as an honorarium. After some explanations by the Honourable the Acting Attorney General, who was a
• Member of the Commission, the Committee recommend that the sum be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine die.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Chairman.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 9th September, 1887.
Read and confirmed this 9th day of September, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ, Acting Clerk of Councils.
•
•
No. 17.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
AT A MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, HONGKONG,
On the 19th September, 1887.
137
C.S.O.
2090 of 1887.
PRESENT:
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary (FREDERICK STEWART), Chairman. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD).
2
>>
>>
21
>>
>>
""
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE).
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN.
The Committee meet this day at the request of the Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Report of the proceedings of the last Meeting, held on the 9th instaut, having been taken as read, is confirmed.
Street Improvement.
Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $1,500 for the purchase of a small corner of Inland Lot 24, in Queen's Road West, immediately below the hill whereon stands the Civil Hospital. The thoroughfare makes a sharp angle in skirting round the hill; and, as the traffic through Queen's Road West is incessant, it would be for the safety of riders in chairs and jinrickshas to shave off the small corner, and thus avoid the accidents which are always taking place at this spot.
Government House, Hongkong, 19th September, 1887.
After some explanations by the Chairman, the Committee recommend that the amount be voted.
The Committee then adjourn sine dic.
Laid before the Legislative Council on the 23rd September, 1887.
·
237
No. 87.
4
j
HONGKONG.
CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING THE PROPOSAL OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL FOR MAKING PUBLIC THE PROCEEDINGS
OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His
Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 7th January, 1887.
}
The Secretary of State for the Colonies to the Officer Administering the Government of Hongkong.
HONGKONG.
No. 61.
SIR,
DOWNING STREET,
17th November, 1886.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 282, of the 30th of August, relative to a proposal which had been brought forward in the Legislative Council, for making public the proceedings of the Finance Committee upon which
you request my instructions.
2. In reply, I have to observe that the proceedings of the Finance Committee, as I understand them, are for the confidential assistance of the Governor in framing the Estimates of the ensuing year, and that any portion of the Estimates, when they come before the Council, is open to discussion by the members, so that I am unable to see any sufficient reason for altering the existing practice, which appears to have worked satisfactorily. I am, however, glad to notice the increased interest in the public expenditure of the Colony and its good government, of which the discussions which have taken place are evidence, and I fully concur in the steps you propose to take in paragraph & of your despatch, for furnishing fuller inform- ation in regard to money votes submitted to the Council.
3. I trust that in this way the object of Mr. MACEWEN and of those gentlemen who supported him, will be practically attained, while at the same time the incon- venience which might occasionally arise were the proceedings of the Finance Committee made public, will be avoided.
(Signed)
I have, &c.,
EDWARD STANHOPE.
&
-..
The Officer Administering the Government of
HONGKONG.
No. 282.
(Copy.)
No. 10
87.
HONGKONG.
DESPATCH RESPECTING THE PROPOSAL OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL FOR MAKING PUBLIC THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE
FINANCE COMMITTEE,
(In continuation of No. 4 of 1887.)
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 28th January, 1887.
GOVERNMENT HOUSE, HONGKONG, 30th August, 1886.
Enclosure 1. September 2nd,
the "Daily Press."
SIR,
I have the honour to forward, for your consideration, and for such directions as you may think fit to give thereon, an extract from a local newspaper, giving a 1886. Mail Supplement to fairly accurate report of the proceedings in the Legislative Council on the 27th instant. A motion was made on that occasion, after due notice, by the Honourable A. P. MACEWEN, one of the new members who took his seat for the first time, the practical effect of which motion would have been the abolition of the Finance Committee. His motion was lost after a lengthy debate, all the Official Members and one of the Un-official Members voting for an amendment.
Enclosures 2 & 3. Finance Committee Reports, Nos.
July, 1886.
2. It will be seen from the papers which I laid before the Council that, at a 16 & 17 of 15th & 20th meeting of the Finance Committee held on 15th July last, during the recess, Mr. MACEWEN moved and carried a resolution that the Finance Committee should suspend all action, until the question was decided by the Legislative Council whether its meetings should not be held with open doors, the object being to admit reporters of the newspapers. As the meeting of the Finance Committee at which this resolution was passed, was not a full one, and as the effect of the resolution was to stop all votes of money during the recess, I requested that the action might be re-considered at a full meeting of the Committee, and I laid before them a Minute (of 17th July) pointing out the great utility of the Finance Committee, which had now been working satisfactorily since the year 1872, when the practice was bor- rowed from Mauritius. I also informed the Committee that in 1878 Governor HENNESSY had made a suggestion that the meetings of the Finance Committee should in future be open to reporters of the Press, but that this suggestion had Desp. No. 42 of 8th April, been disapproved by Sir MICHAEL HICKS-BEACH, and I added that under the circumstances I should not feel warranted, even if the resolution were carried, in giving it effect, until after I had reported the matter for the decision of the Secre- tary of State.
1879.
3. At the second meeting of the Finance Committee held on 20th July, they reversed the previous decision, and resolved that the meetings of the Finance Com- mittee should be carried on as heretofore, until the question of admitting the public to such meetings be considered at the first meeting of the Legislative Council.
4. A special meeting of Council was held on 27th instant, in order to renew the French Mail Steamers Ordinance, which expired on the 1st September, and to pass a similar Ordinance for the German Mail Steamers. Mr. MACEWEN then brought forward a resolution in a different shape. Instead of moving as in Finance Committee that the meetings of that Committee should be held with open doors, he moved "that in future all matters of public interest and more particularly the voting of public funds be discussed openly in Council and not as heretofore at private meetings of the Finance Committee." In his speech introducing the motion he refers to "the discontent and dissatisfaction which have prevailed "for many years past," on the subject of the private meetings of the Finance
44
.
264
Committee, discontent which, he says, is not "confined to two or three persons; "but has been universal for many years past." Since I came to the Colony in 1879, I have never heard of this alleged universal discontent and dissatisfaction, nor can I find any evidence of its existence in the past, and I believe that any dis- satisfaction which may now exist is far from being universal, and that it dates principally, if not wholly, from the resolutions passed this year in favour of a further large vote for Fortifications and of the raising of the Loan at home instead of here, both which decisions were undoubtedly most unpopular. In 1878 when Governor HENNESSY informed the Council that he intended to recommend to the Secretary of State that the meetings of the Finance Committee should in future be held in public, he appears to have made this suggestion spontaneously and not in consequence of any representations of public dissatisfaction.
CC
It
5. The resolution of the Honourable A. P. MACEWEN was met by an amend- ment proposed by the Acting Attorney General that, "it is not necessary to inter- "fere with the present practice of Council which has been in existence for many years and which was unanimously adopted by the Standing Rules and Orders of "Council dated 10th April, 1884." This amendment was supported by the Treasurer and the Chief Justice, and was carried by a majority of three votes. is strange that, when Sir GEORGE BOWEN laid before the Council for approval on 10th April, 1884, the new Standing Rules and Orders, which had been drafted by a Committee composed of the Attorney General, the Treasurer and Messrs. RYRIE (the seconder of Mr. MACEWEN's resolution), SASSOON, and WONG SHING, the universal discontent and dissatisfaction, alleged to have prevailed for many years past. did not prompt some member either to object to the appointment of the Finance Com- mittee or to propose that its meetings should be held with open doors. Instead of this, the new Standing Rules were unanimously adopted.
6. It was pointed out by the supporters of the amendment that the resolution was unnecessary, since it was competent to any member, when the adoption of any Report of a Finance Committee was moved in Council, to raise a full public discussion thereon without any previous resolution. It has not been the practice, however, to do this, and resolutions which have been fully discussed and decided in Finance Committee, have generally been passed afterwards by the Council without any observations or comment. The public consequently have had no means of ascertaining the reasons which have induced the Finance Committee to vote the different items, and I admit that in this respect they have some ground for com- plaint; but it seems to me that it is not the fault of the Government, if the Un- official Members give a silent vote in favour of sums, the payment of which has been discussed and recommended by the Finance Committee.
7. I have felt for some time past and before the present discussion was raised by Mr. MACEWEN, that the public had very meagre information on the subject of votes of money that were proposed by Government, and, if a reference is made to my Minutes of the present year, and they are compared with those of previous years, it will be seen that I have endeavoured to embody therein much fuller in- formation than has hitherto been given. When I first arrived in Hongkong no Minutes of the Governor, asking for votes of money, were laid before the Council. The papers were merely referred by the Governor to the Finance Committee and a vote was subsequently asked for and given without any explanation having been given at any time to the public. I think it a healthy sign that the indifference which at that time prevailed with regard to public expenditure has passed away, and that much keener interest is now manifested in the proceedings of Government.
8. I am disposed to think that by explaining fully in the Governor's Minutes the reasons why any votes of money are asked for; by laying before the Council the Reports of the Finance Committee, which has never been done before the last meet- ing of Council; and by volunteering further explanation when the adoption of that Report is moved, sufficient publicity will be given to the reasons for voting money, without admitting the public to the meetings of the Finance Committee. As has been pointed out to the Council by the Chief Justice, the Acting Attorney General, and the Treasurer, and, as I observed in my Minute of 17th July, the admission of reporters to these meetings would preclude Government in many cases from supplying important information of a wholly confidential nature. This was forcibly exem- plified in the case of the recent large vote for Fortifications, when a great deal of infor- mation was asked for and was given, which would necessarily have been withheld, if there had been reporters present at the meetings of the Finance Committee.
265
9. The question for Her Majesty's Government to consider in this matter is, whether or not the meetings of the Finance Committee shall in future be held with open doors, and it is hardly necessary for me to state that I shall carry out, with- out any hesitation, any instructions that I may receive on this subject. The Chief Justice observed in his speech that it was competent to the Legislative Council at any time to direct the withdrawal of strangers. This has, I am informed, never been done except when the Annual Jury List is settled, which is always done with closed doors. Should it be considered desirable to admit the public in future to the meetings of the Finance Committee, this power might also be reserved for the Committee. The question is really whether reporters are to be admitted, as the public hardly ever attend meetings of Council, but. are content to read the report of proceedings in the next day's newspaper.
The Right Honourable
I have, &c..
(Signed),
W. H. MARSH.
THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
257
No. 97
9
87.
HONGKONG.
REPORT OF THE ACTING SUPERINTENDENT OF FIRE BRIGADE FOR 1886.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 28th January, 1887.
No. 2.
SIR,
FIRE BRIGADE DEPARTMENT,
7th January, 1887.
I have the honour to submit the following report of the Government Fire Brigade for the year ending 31st December, 1886.
During the year the Fire Brigade has performed important work which, as regards efficiency, is creditable, though not by any means perfect.
The rapid growth of the Colony demanding additional facilities for extinguishing fires, I recommended the Government early last year to purchase two additional Steam Engines which I proposed to station in the eastern and western districts to be on the spot in case of fire occurring in either locality. The Government sanctioned the purchase of one engine which is on its way from England, and a Steam Fire Pump has been fitted to the Steam-launch Stanley, which, if placed at the disposal of the Brigade, will bring up the strength of the available Fire Engines to the following:-
No. 1 Merryweather,
Floating Steamer.
No. 2
Do.
...Land
do.
No. 3 Shand Mason & Co. ......... do.
do.
No. 4
No. 5
Do.
Do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
expected from England.
;
No. 6 Deane's (floating)
fitted in steam-launch Stanley.
Manuals-9 in number stationed in different parts of the Colony.
No. 2 Engine has been 16 years in service, and is now fitted with new steam cylinders and valve casing which will render the engine serviceable for some years.
The Government offices and other important centres have been supplied with hose and stand pipes.
With regard to fire alarms, a new bell has been supplied to the clock tower, and the bell of No. 5 Station has been raised so that its sound can be heard at a greater distance. These, however, are anything but perfect as fire alarms, as considerable time must of necessity elapse between the out- break of a fire and communication to the station. This has been proved several times by the advanced state which the conflagration had reached on the arrival of the first engine.
The whole of the hose for the steam engines has been fitted with couplings on the Metropolitan Fire Brigade pattern which greatly facilitates connecting the lengths of hose.
The engines have been periodically overhauled, and carefully examined and tested, and are all in first rate order, though I should recommend a new Fire-box for No. 3 Engine during the current year. Weekly drills have been held for instruction of Drivers and Firemen in their respective duties, when steam has been raised on each engine in turn. The system of fines sanctioned by His Excellency has proved successful in the increased attendance at weekly parades, and, a greater attention to cleanliness and dress. The whole of the Chinese firemen have been supplied with belts and hose- wrenches, and have been instructed in elementary fire drill.
4
Considerable difficulty frequently arises at low water spring tides in obtaining water at various parts of the Praya, when the floating engine proves invaluable. The dredging operations, when completed on the fore-shore, will remove what has at times been a great difficulty.
}
258
Our staff at present consists of :-
1 Superintendent.
1 Assistant Superintendent.
1
Do.
1 Clerk.
Do.
and Engineer.
1 Assistant Engineer.
2 Engine Drivers, Chinese.
3
Do..
Europeans.
2 Assistant Engine Drivers, Europeans.
6 Stokers.
1 Overseer of Water Works.
1 Inspector of Dangerous Goods.
1 Chinese Assistant Do.,
2 Foremen.
4 Assistant Foremen.
17 Firemen, Europeans.
46 Do., Chinese.
30 Do., Market Coolies. 10 Chinese Contingent.
15 Watchmen.
Floating Engine.
1 Assistant Foreman and Engine Driver. 1 Chinese Engine Driver.
1 Stoker.
2 Seamen.
Since the post of second Assistant Superintendent has been abolished and the joint appointment of Assistant Superintendent and Engineer has been made, a greater responsibility has fallen on the Acting Assistant Engineer, as the Engineer in his dual capacity is frequently called away to the scene of the fire, and must leave the Engines in charge of the next in command.
Looking to the increased duties that devolve upon the Engineer and his Assistant, who now have to keep in an efficient state six steam engines and nine manuals, I consider the remuneration, which was voted at a time when there were only two steam engines, is so newhat inadequate to the increased duties and responsibilities.
At the Annual General Inspection in November last, a new feature was introduced in the form of competition at Fire drills for prizes, which acted as a stimulus to the members of the Brigades and gave them greater interest in their work; and amongst the Chinese particularly, this has resulted in bringing to the front some really valuable firemen. As an instance of the efficiency of the Brigades, I may mention that at the recent fire which occurred in Bonham Strand on a Sunday afternoon, within the space of a few minutes of the alarm being sounded, thirteen powerful jets of water were playing upon the burning houses.
At first sight our Brigade appears to be not only adequate as regards machinery, but also numerically, but when it is borne in mind that not more than half of the Europeans are available at any one fire, and that the hilly configuration of the Colony often requires two engines to do the work of one in order to reach the elevation required, it will be seen that the Brigade is under, rather than over, the necessary strength for a growing Colony like Hongkong.
The supply of water from the new Water-works (in course of construction) will materially assist in extinguishing fires in the upper levels of the Colony, and also in the early stages of all fires, if my suggestion with regard to telephonic communication is adopted. But the value of water mains must not be over-estimated, as in a case similar to that in Bonham Strand (referred to before) it would be impossible to concentrate such a body of water at any one given point from hydrants as could be obtained by steam Engines, and the superiority of salt water over fresh, for extinguishing fires is universally acknowledged.
I cannot close this report without mentioning the able assistance I have had during the past year from the Officers of the Brigade. I may specially mention Mr. WAGNER, who has been acting as Engineer and Assistant Superintendent, Mr. RAE, the chief foreman, and Mr. CAMPBELL, Acting Assistant Engineer. These officers have devoted a great deal of time and attention to their respective duties and the present efficiency of the Brigade is in a great measure due to their untiring exertions.
We are greatly indebted to the Captain Superintendent of Police for the excellent order kept by his force at the various fires. The systematic working of the Brigade, and absence of malicious injury to hose and larceny of Government property, is greatly owing to the vigilance of the Police.
Subjoined is a tabulated form showing the number of alarms of Fires, and estimated damage for the past year.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
JOHN S. BREWER, Acting Superintendent Fire Brigade.
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
•
-
N
Date.
Time.
RETURN OF FIRES AND ALARMS OCCURRED DURING THE YEAR 1886.
Situation of Fire.
No. of Build-
ing destroyed.
Damage.
Wholly.
Partly.
Cause.
REMARKS.
1 January
1,
>>
""
""
""
""
9
9,
5.15 p.m.
7.30 p.m.
Grass on hillside West of Mount Davis,
A bed curtain in No. 42, Circular Pathway,
A stack of grass at the back of Joss house at Shaukiwán,
Chimney of No. 27, Gage Street,
Praya Central, Blackhead & Co.'s Store,
Saw dust in No. 21, Pound Lane,
Near Shaukiwán Market,
Grass above Tai-tam-tuk Water-Works,
Grass on the hillside at Mount Davis,
Unknown Unknown,
None
Do.
$15
Do.
Trifling
Do.
None
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
وو
$60
Carelessness with a lighted cigar,
Unknown.
Carelessness with matches. Sparks from the Engine House. Unknown.
Do.
Some thousands of. young fir trees were destroyed.
A number of Chinese account books burnt.
10
13,
8 p.m.
A stack of grass at Shaukiwán,
11
14,
5.30 a.m.
A matshed at Coffee Plantation,..
Trifling
Accidental when cooking..
A
12
19,
Trap door No. 297, Queen's Road Central,
None
Burning Incense.
13
19,
12.50 a.m.
>>
14
20,
A bed curtain and beddings in No. 41, East Street, Matshed at Hunghòm Docks,
$3
Unknown.
I
$15
Do.
""
None
Do.
15
26,
1.20 a.m.
Cook-house No. 61, Praya West,
""
$30
Do.
16
30,
A stack of grass at Taikoktsui,
""
None
Do.
17
30,
23
5.30 p.m.
Grass on the hill near Parsee Point,
18
31,
""
6.30 p.m.
Chimney of No. 4, Blue Buildings,.
Do.
Do.
19 February 2,
20
2.20 p.m.
No. 186, Hollywood Road, (Po Lok Theatre),
Whole Block
$30,000
Kerosene Lamp,
Two girls aged 9 and
None
Unknown.
Matshed at No. 2, Gap Street,
$50
Do.
5 years respectively were burned to death.
21
,,
9 p.m.
Stack of grass at Quarry Bay,
22
99
3.30 a.m.
Wooden partition at No. 49, West Street,.
Trifling
Incense Sticks.
Do.
Unknown.
23
Chimney at No. 1, Seymour Terrace,..
24
"3
9 p.m.
25
15,
39
3.15 p.m.
26
26,
11
5.45 p.m.
27 March
4,
28
7,
"
4 p.m.
29
11,
>>
30
17,
""
31
21,
22
33
22,
32 April 6,
10.40 p.m.
Midnight
6.10 p.m.
3 a.m.
Matsheds at Naval Yard, Kanlung,
Grass on the hill at Mount Davis,
No. 8, Wai Tak Lane,
Stack of grass at Shaukiwán,
$140
Do.
$4,000
Do.
Chimney at No. 11, Cochrane Street,.
None
Do.
Do.
Do.
Chimney at No. 3, Taipingsháu Street, Matsheds at Belchers Battery,
Do.
Do.
No. 3, Wing Fung Street,
1
$280
$1,200
Do.
Kerosene Lamp.
Slight
Do.
Do.
Do.
No. 56, Market Street,..
Do.
Unknown.
...
Chimney at Hongkong Club,
"
None
Do.
34
27,
5
p.m.
Chimney at No. 5 Station,
""
35 May
4 a.m.
Staircase of No. 149, Queen's Road West,.
Slight
Do.,
36
6,
3.20 a.m.
No. 84, Queen's Road East,..
1
Unknown Kerosene Lamp.
Half catty of Kerosene was found.
""
A
37
9,
3 a.m.
Wooden partition at Gilman Bazaar,
Trifling
Unknown.
"
None
Do.
38
13,
2 a.m.
No. 116, Praya West,
A
39
22,
3 a.m.
ཐ་
وو
40
25,
33
11.15 p.m.
Mosquito curtain in No. 266, Queen's Road West, Chimney of No. 235, Queen's Road Central,.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
...
259
Νο. Date.
Time.
RETURN OF FIRES AND ALARMS OCCURRED DURING THE YEAR 1886,--Continued.
Situation of Fire.
41 May
42
""
43 June
44 July
30,
45
3,
""
46
""
47
""
48
24,
4.45 p.m. 10.30 a.m.
""
49
30,
95
دو
50 August 3,
51
52
12.45 a.m.
13,
9.45 p.m.
13,
"}
5 p.m.
53
14,
Noon:
""
54
17,
8.30 p.m.
39
55
20,
10 a.m.
56
26,
""
9.30 p.m.
57
30,
Noon.
30,
31,
11.30 a.m..
8.30 a.m.
2.30 p.m.
7.30 a.m.
Midnight
5.30 p.m.
Third Street,
Mosquito curtain at No. 10, Jardine Bazaar,..
Firewood in cook-house of No. 3, Hin Lung Lane,
No. 50, Jardine Bazaar,
No. 4, Square Street,
Chimney at No. 224, Queen's Road West,.
Chimney of Medical Hall,
Firewood in the kitchen of No. 31, Gough Street,
A piece of cloth at No. 9, Wellington Street, Chimney of No. 21, Ladder Street,.
No. 24, Circular Pathway,
Roof of No. 17, Praya East,
A Hut above Kennedy Road,
Chimney at No. 27, Hollywood Road,
Mat-bags at No. 4, First Street,
Soldering shed at Bowrington,
Chimney at Tung Wa Hospital,
58 September 5,
7.30 p.m.
59
8,
11.30 a.m.
No. 41, Cochrane Street,
Matsheds above Kennedy Road,.
60
Grass on hillside near Aberdeen,.
"
61
11,
11 p.m.
12,
4.20 a.m.
55
4 p.m.
7 p.m.
6.30 p.m.
4 p.m.
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
23
""
""
""
.99
"
69 October
70
71
72
""
""
""
""
15,
17,
17,
19,
27,
29,
2,
6,
11,
11,
12,
21,
10 a.m.
5.45 p.m.
6 a.m.
9 p.m.
6.30 p.m.
No. 3, Ezra Lane,....
No. 324, Queen's Road West,
Grass on hill near Cape D'Aguilar and Stanley Road,.
No. 41, Salt-fish Lane,..
A Kerosene Lamp No. 47, Hollywood Road,..
Grass on hillside near Chai Wan,
Chimney of No. 10, Queen's Road Central,
Chimney of No. 18, Hollywood Road, ..... Carpet in Hongkong Hotel,
Grass on Mount Davis,
A mosquito curtain in No. 5, Third Street,
A matshed at Stone Cutters' Island,
No. 3, Kau U Fong,.
10.45 p.m.
No. 3, Tuk Hing Lane,
Grass on hill near Tai-tam-tuk,
73
74
""
75
22,
76
22,
""
77
29,
5.50 p.m.
78 November 2,
12.50 p.m.
79
""
80
லம்
7.20 p.m.
Grass on hillside near Stanley,
12.30 p.m.
Some mats on No. 51, Caine Road,...
Some wood in No. 225, Queen's Road West,. Chimney of Tsimshatsui Station,
Chimney of No. 95, Second Street,.
39
No. of Build-
ing destroyed.
Damage.
Wholly.
Partly.
Cause.
REMARKS.
Slight
Do.
Unknown.
Do.
...
None
Children playing with candles. Unknown.
Kerosene Lamp.
Do.
Rags and Paper.
Very little
Unknown.
None
Do.
Trifling
Do.
None
Do..
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
$5
Incendiary,
Trifling
Unknown.
$300
Overheating a soldering iron.
Trifling
Accidental.
Do.
Unknown.
Do.
Kerosene Lamp.
2
$500
Unknown.
Trifling
Do.
:
Do.
Do.
...
Do.
Mat Screen.
Do.
Unknown.
$3,500
Do.
None
Lamp burst.
Trifling Unknown.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
...
None
Do.
Do.
Trifling
1
$50
None
J
2
$12,000
None
Set on fire while worshipping graves. Unknown.
Do.
Upsetting of a lighted lamp.
Upsetting of a Kerosene Lamp by a cat. Unknown.
Trifling
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
While Chun-fat was prosecuting 3 men for larceny at the Police Court a gang of their friends set fire to his hut.
260
No.
Date.
Time.
RETURN OF FIRES AND ALARMS OCCURRED DURING THE YEAR 1886,—Continued.
Situation of Fire.
No. of Build-
ing destroyed.
Damage.
Wholly.
Partly.
Cause.
81 November 8,
82
10,
"}
83
10,
55
84
11,
""
85
13,
86
20,
87
"
20,
88
22,
ފ
89
24,
99
90
24,
""
91
26,
>>
9 p.m.
92
26,
p.m.
93
29,
5 p.m.
94 December 5,
5 p.m.
10.30 a.m.
5.15 a.m.
...
7.15 p.m.
5.40 p.m.
Chimney of No. 39, Pottinger Street,..
No. 218, Hollywood Road,
A bundle of firewood in No. 10, West Street,
Rattan shavings in No. 15, Tik Lung Lane,
A mattress in No. 74, Praya East, Flooring of No. 88, Bridges Street, Cook-house No. 6, Praya, Hunghòm,.. No. 17, Hollywood Road,
Horse Repository, Garden Road,
A mosquito curtain No. 60, Praya, Yaumati,
No. 106, Queen's Road West,
Chimney No. 36, Praya Central,
A mosquito curtain No. 7, Circular Pathway, A mosquito curtain Square Street,
Trifling
Do.
Unknown.
None
Upsetting of a Kerosene Lamp. Unknown.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Trifling
Fire from cooking stove.
$5
Some matting caught fire.
Trifling
$270
Explosion of a Kerosene Lamp.
Unknown.
$7
Do.
10
1
$40,000.
Capsizing of a Kerosene Lamp.
None
Unknown.
Slight
Do.
$1.20
Do.
95
7,
Hillside near North Fort,...
Unknown Unknown,
""
96
""
97
11,
13,
1 p.m.
Bed board at No. 23, Taipingshan Street, Grass on the hill at Aberdeen,
Trifling
Burning of Joss Paper-
Do.
Unknown.
""
98
15,
10 a.m.
Hills East of Tai-tam-tuk Village,
None
Do.
دو
99
15,
5 a.m.
No. 91, Queen's Road West,
4
2
Do.
100
16,
12.30 p.m.
Grass on hill between Chaiwan and Shekò,
Do.
101
17,
7 a.m.
No. 223, Queen's Road West,
3
$16,000
102
""
8 p.m.
103
19,
""
104
20,
>>
17,
5.40 p.m.
1.40 a.m.
No. 67, Bonham Strand West, ..... Mat-bags in No. 155, Praya West,...
Wooden partition at No. 20, Jervois Street,
None
1
2
$18,000
...
Trifling
Accidental when cooking. Unknown.
Spilling of fat in fire.
Unknown.
Carelessness with a candle.
Unknown.
105
20,
""
106
22,
""
3 p.m.
A coal godown in Ship Street, ........
Cook-house of No. 42, Jervois Street,
None
Do.
Do.
Do.
107
24,
5
""
p.m.
108
25,
""
8.30 p.m.
109.
28,
""
7 p.m.
1st floor of No. 23, East Street,
110
29,
5
"
p.m.
111
29,
""
6.30 p.m.
A matshed in Italian Convent's Garden at Kaulung,
Chimney of No. 91, Praya West,
A mosquito curtain and some bed clothing in No. 49, Square Street,
Grass on hill between Gap and Mount Kellett,
$80
Do.
...
None
Do.
Do.
Bursting of a Kerosene Lamp.
Trifling
Do.
Burning of Joss Paper.
Unknown.
112
29,
7 p.m.
Grass on the hillside above Pokfulam Road,.
Do.
Do.
...
""
Fire Brigade Department, Hongkong, 5th January, 1887.
REMARKS.
Some young trees and
grass burned down.
JOHN S. BREWER, Acting Superintendent Fire Brigade.
}
261
297
No.
16
87.
HONGKONG.
CORRESPONDENCE IN CONNECTION WITH THE BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE EMPOWERING THE COURTS TO AWARD WHIPPING
AS A FURTHER PUNISHMENT FOR CERTAIN CRIMES.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His
Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 18th March, 1887.
EXTRACTS FROM SECRETARY OF STATE'S DESPATCH, No. 78,
OF 10TH DECEMBER, 1886.
(1.)
Secretary of State for the Colonies to the Officer Administering the Government of Hongkong
3. On the evidence contained in the papers now before me, and in view of the strong consensus of opinion on the subject existing in the Colony, I am prepared to approve a modification of the law relating to corporal punishment in the direction, though not to the full extent, suggested by the Commission. I consider that the Courts may properly be authorized to impose this penalty in the cases specified in the first paragraph of the letter of the Chinese Justices, except the offence of "being found armed with dangerous weapons, without sufficient reason and excuse," but I cannot sanction its imposition as a punishment of adults for petty larceny, or for the offence of returning from banishment. The number of strokes to be inflicted must be specified in the sentence, and must not exceed 36 in the case of adults, or 12 in the case of persons under the age of 16 years.
4. I approve of the Draft Prison Regulation which was transmitted with your Despatch of the 26th of June, empowering the Superintendent of the Gaol, without the concurrence of a Visiting Justice, to inflict corporal punishment for certain prison offences and requiring him to report to the Governor every case in which he exercises that power.
*
6. I concur in the opinion which you have expressed, and which is shared by the majority of the Gaol Commission, and by the Chinese Justices of the Peace, that it is not desirable to resort to cutting off the queues as a mode of punishment, and you should consider whether it may not be desirable to alter the prison regu- lation on the subject, so as not to allow the queues of Chinese sentenced to penal servitude to be cut without special permission of the Governor, this being the practice which is followed in the Straits Settlements.
7. I approve the suggested reductions in the scale of diet. No more food should be given to prisoners than is sufficient to keep them in good health and enable them to perform hard labour, when sentenced to it, and the Superintendent and Medical Officer must be held responsible for seeing that these conditions are fulfilled.
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
EDWARD STANHOPE.
{
298
SIR,
(2.)
Certain Chinese Justices of the Peace to the Acting Colonial Secretary.
HONGKONG, 26th June, 1886.
We have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, No. 986, dated the 23rd instant, inviting us to express our views on certain recommenda- tions made by the Commission recently appointed to enquire and report into certain questions connected with the Gaol.
In reply we beg to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, that we have assembled together for the 'consideration of the subject-matters of your letter above referred to, and after careful deliberation, have unanimously arrived at the following conclusions:-
1. We cannot altogether agree with the said Commission in the recommen- dation of Corporal Punishment for simple larceny. We are of opinion that such punishment for such offences is unnecessarily severe. We would, however, strongly recommend Corporal Punishment in the follow- ing cases :-
(1.) Juvenile Offenders, 16 and under.
(2.) Old Offenders, having had two previous convictions or more. (3.) Earring snatching and snatching things from women and
children.
(4.) Robbery with Violence, such as garroting, &c.
(5.) Extortion and Black-mailing.
(6.) Intimidating and the sending of threatening letters or messages with the view of hindering the course of justice or the carry- ing out of public duties.
(7.) Being found armed with dangerous weapons without sufficient
reason and excuse.
(8.) Returning from Banishment.
(9.) Armed attack on or forced entry into any dwelling-house, shop,
junk, &c.
(10.) Piracy.
(11.) Indecent Assault.
2. We do not consider the cutting off of the queues of prisoners to be an effective mode of punishment. With the respectable Chinese the loss of the queue is considered a disgrace, but with the ruffians it is a matter of indifference. And we further oppose this mode of punishment on the following grounds :-
(1.) It would prevent criminals from returning to the mainland
opposite, and perforce keep them in Hongkong.
(2.) It would to a certain extent close the door against future
repentance.
(3.) It would facilitate their evading the Night-pass Ordinance as they could easily then put on European dress, the prejudice against having the queue cut off having been forcibly removed by the Government.
(4.) It is meaningless, and we cannot think of a single instance
where it is necessary and effectual.
We have the honour to be,
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
&c.
The Honourable FREDERICK Stewart,
Your most obedient Servants,
1
HONGKONG.
145
No. 34.
REPORT OF THE COMMISSION APPOINTED TO CONSIDER THE QUESTION OF INSUFFICIENT ACCOMMODATION IN VICTORIA GAOL,
Chairman to Acting Colonial Secretary.
(C.S.O.)
ATTORNEY GENERAL'S CHAMBERS,
HONGKONG, 1st June, 1886.
SIR,
I have the honour to forward herewith, for submission to the Officer Administering the Government, the Report of the Commission (Enclosure 1) appointed by His Excel- lency to consider a letter of the Superintendent of the Gaol (Enclosure 2) respecting the overcrowded state thereof.
Annexed to the papers is a letter from Mr. A. P. MACEWEN one of the members of the Commission. (Enclosure 3.)
In the Report it is stated that certain recommendations are made unanimously whilst it appears from Mr. MACEWEN's letter that he objects to some of them.
When the Report was drafted and circulated some time ago, Mr. MACEWEN was absent from the Colony; and when it was discussed and finally settled it was thought that he would not return in time to sign it, it therefore embodied the unanimous recom- mendation of the members of the Commission present in the Colony.
The question of depriving of his queue a Chinaman sentenced to a short term of imprisonment was mentioned at one of the first meetings, and discussed later on.
It was the opinion of those members of the Commission who are acquainted with the habits and customs of the Chinese that although it would be a very deterrent punishment, yet it was too severe a one to inflict, as they thought that a prisoner coming out of prison without his queue would be a subject of contempt to other Chinese,—would be shunned by them, he consequently would find it very difficult, if not impossible, to obtain a livelihood, and would thus be forced to commit some offence in order to seek refuge in Gaol.
From my short residence here I am not able to state whether this result would, or would not follow the cutting of the queue, but if it would, the question is worthy of further consideration whether, although a severe punishment to the individual offender, yet if it kept others from crime it would not be the most merciful measure in the end. The draft Report which, with the exception of a few verbal alterations, was the same as the one finally adopted, was submitted to the Honourable W. KESWICK before his departure and he approved of it.
I have the honour to be,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Sir.
Your most obedient servant,
EDW. J. ACKROYD, Acting Attorney General, Chairman.
Acting Colonial Secretary.
146
•
(Enclosure 1.)
Report of a Commission appointed by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government to consider a letter from the Superintendent of Victoria Gaol reporting the overcrowded state thereof.
1. On the 8th April last a Commission consisting of the Honourable the Acting Attorney General as Chairman; The Honourable A. LISTER, Colonial Treasurer; The Honourable J. M. PRICE, Surveyor General; E. MACKEAN, Esquire, Acting Police Magistrate; Major-General GORDON, Superintendent, Victoria Gaol; The Honourable W. KESWICK, M.L.C.; C. P. CHATER, Esquire, J. P.; A. P. MACEWEN, Esquire, J. P.; P. MANSON, Esquire, M.D., J. P. was appointed for the purpose of considering a report of the Superintendent of the Gaol on the insufficient accommodation in that Establishment and the steps which should be taken to remedy the present state of things.
2. This Commission met at once and has held several sittings.
3. "Two sub-committees were appointed, the first consisting of:--
THE CHAIRMAN, Honourable WM. KESWICK,
E. MACKEAN, Esquire, Major-General GORDON, Dr. MANSON, and
C. P. CHATER, Esquire,
to visit the Gaol at night and report on the state thereof, and another consisting of:--
Major-General GORDON,
Dr. MANSON, and
Dr. AYRES,
to enquire into the diet of the prisoners and to report what changes, if any, should be made therein.
4. The reports of these sub-committee are annexed hereto. (Enclosures 4 and 5.)
5. On the whole question submitted to us we beg to report as follows:-
We deem it necessary in the first place to bring prominently before His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government the peculiar position of Hongkong, a position occupied by no other Colony of Great Britain.
Hongkong is situate at the very door of two of the largest provinces of China, and close to and in daily communication with Canton, one of the most populous cities of China. A famine or want of work in either of those provinces or in the city would naturally send a certain number of the inhabitants to Hongkong in search of work or of subsistence, whilst the presence in Canton of an active or severe Viceroy at once forces or induces many of the criminal class to change the scene of their depreda- tions and to migrate to Hongkong, where even if detected a mild and lenient treatment awaits them instead of the sharp and cruel punishment which they would certainly receive in China.
..
This fact cannot be too steadily borne in mind in dealing with the question
of punishment for offences.
6. In Hongkong we have to legislate not only for the Hongkong criminal class but for numbers of that class elsewhere, who are only too ready whenever the occasion arises to repair to this Colony and prey on it.
7. From a return furnished by the Superintendent of the Gaol (Enclosure 6) it appears that of the 732 prisoners confined on the 11th April, 1886, 677 were Chinese; 274 were detained under sentences of six months; 114 from six months to twelve months; 60 from one year to two years; 39 from two years to three years; 44 from three years to five years; 142 from over five years.
Of those sentenced to penal servitude many have been convicted of simple Larceny after previous convictions for the same offence, and have been so sentenced as a long imprisonment was the only punishment left to secure the public from further depredation.
1
8. With respect to the deterrent effect of imprisonment this Commission has no hesitation in saying that under the liberal diet which at present exists in the Gaol and other circumstances attending imprisonment, a short detention, say under six months, is no punishment for an ordinary Chinaman, he is better fed and better housed in prison than outside and the work or task which he has to perform is certainly less than he would have to do to obtain a livelihood were he free. He is in almost unrestricted association with criminals like himself and has one and a half day's holiday a week, a thing which the ordinary Chinese labourer never enjoys.
9. On the question of punishment the Commission have considered the legislation as to whipping.
10. The law which at present regulates whipping is Ordinance 3 of 1881. It repeals the Ordinances or Sections of Ordinances hereinafter mentioned and provides whipping with a rattan when any offender has been convicted of a crime punishable under Section 19 of Ordinance 4 of 1865 or under Section 31 of Ordinance 7 of 1865, that is
•--
Section 19 of 4 of 1865 punishes any one attempting to choke, strangle, or suffocate any other person, or who by means calculated to choke, suffocate, or strangle shall attempt to render any one unconscious or incapable of resistance, and Section 31 of Ordinance 7 of 1865 punishes robbery with violence.
11. The only other case in which whipping is at present allowed is under Section 8 of Ordinance 16 of 1875 which permits a Police Magistrate to inflict whipping on any male offender whose age appears to him not to exceed 16 years when such offender has been convicted of Larceny or any offence deemed and punishable as simple Larceny.
12. The present Ordinance, viz., 3 of 1881, repeals
1o. 12 of 1865 under which whipping could be inflicted on any male offender convicted of a crime who at the time of the commission thereof had been armed with an offensive weapon or instrument or who at the time of, or immediately before or after the commission of the crime had used personal violence, or who should at any of the times aforesaid have attempted to render any other person insensible unconscious or incapable of resistance.
2o. Sections 2 and 3 of Ordinance 12 of 1845 which enacted banishment and
branding for persons convicted of belonging to the Triad Society.
3°. Section 7 of Ordinance 12 of 1856 which allowed whipping for injury to trees, shrub fences, &c., and for obeying calls of nature in any exposed or improper place.
4°. Sub-section 9 of Section 28 of Ordinance 8 of 1885 relating to mendicancy. 5°. Section 9 of Ordinance 1 of 1886 for the suppression of piracy which
. enacted whipping for offences against that Ordinance.
6°. Section 1 of Ordinance 3 of 1868 which prescribed whipping for persons convicted of child stealing or forcible detention of any man, woman or child for the purpose of selling them.
7o. Ordinance 4 of 1872 which enacted branding and flogging for criminals
in certain cases, and
8°. Section 7 of Ordinance 16 of 1875 which gave the Magistrate the power of whipping the offender once or twice for committing the following offences a second time or under aggravated circumstance, viz.:--
Indecent assault,
Indecent exposure of his person,
Assault with intent to rob,
Common assault committed in a brothel,
Common assault committed at or in connection
with any riotous assemblage,
Malicious injury to property.
13. The Commission have also heard Dr. AYRES (Enclosure 7.) and Mr. WISE, the Police Magistrate, at present Acting Registrar of the Supreme Court (Enclosure 8.) and have carefully read the several despatches which have passed between the several Secretaries of State and successive Governors of Hongkong on the subject of Gaol accommodation and penal punishments (Enclosure 9.)
147
į
}
¿
148
14. After having carefully considered the subject submitted to them, they beg to report, that the Gaol is at present overcrowded.
15. That as a temporary measure to relieve in part this overcrowding they suggest that,
(a.) Early arrangements be made with the West End Reformatory to receive
all the Juvenile Offenders.
(b.) That and enquiry be instituted into the cases of the 39 prisoners sentenced for gambling and that such as are not gambling house owners, or keepers, shroffs or watchmen, be forthwith liberated.
(c.) That an enquiry be made into the cases of the 46 men committed in default of finding security and that the least aggravated cases be forth- with liberated.
16. With respect to the future the Commission are of opinion, that it is most undesirable in the present state of the finances of the Colony and with such heavy expenditure in view as the Fortifications, completion of Tytam Water-works, Victoria College, and Sanitary works will entail, to embark on such a large and expensive work as the erection of a New Gaol unless the necessity of it has been fully demonstrated ; and the Commission are of opinion that such a step should not be taken until other measures have been tried.
17. Respecting those other measures the Commission are unanimously of opinion that the present system of imprisonment is altogether inadequate as a means of punish-
ment.
18. They would again strongly urge on His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government the facts:-
1o. That in Hongkong we are exposed to the depredations and incursions of numbers of the criminal classes of the two Kwang provinces including the large city of Canton.
2o. That short terms of imprisonment are no punishment at all for the
ordinary Chinese.
3°. That some other kind of punishment is urgently required for cases of
petty larceny and for the offence of returning from banishment.
19. That they are unanimously of opinion that Solitary confinement by itself would not meet the evils complained of: wherefore they recommend that whipping be allowed as recommended by Mr. WISE, for all cases of petty theft and for returning from banishment.
20. At present the only punishment for returning from banishment is one year's imprisonment and the Committee have good reason for believing that such a punish- ment is not sufficient and does not prevent many from returning.
21. That the scale of diet be reduced as recommended by the Sub-Committee.
22. That if these suggestions be carried out the Commission are of opinion that the numbers in the Gaol would almost immediately be considerably reduced, as not only would there be a very sensible reduction in the offenders sentenced to short periods of imprisonment, but those of the long sentenced convicts who have not been guilty of any serious crime might receive conditional pardon and be banished.
23. Space would thus be obtained to adapt gradually nearly the whole of the present Gaol to the separate system, which should be carried out as soon as possible.
24. The present Gaol would then be sufficient for all ordinary wants, and the measures which they suggest would give within a very short period the relief so much needed, whereas if the alternative measure viz.: the building of a new Gaol be resolved on it would take at least two or three years to build and in the meantime the present state of things would continue.
25. Moreover the Commission are unanimously of opinion that even if there was ample accommodation in the Gaol the Punishment of whipping should be introduced for the offences above mentioned. They feel very strongly that in presence of the peculiar circumstances existing in Hongkong stringent measures are necessary to meet the exceptional dangers and evils to which the Colony is exposed.
26. The Commission cannot but feel that the taxpayers of Hongkong should not be called upon to provide the prison accommodation required by Western ideas for the criminal population of a province long notorious for turbulence and piracy. The only way to avoid this is by a rigorous system of repatriation and, by the logical sequence of that system, which the Colony has never yet been allowed to carry out, the infliction of whipping for the mere offence of returning from banishment.
27. All attempts at dealing with this question have hitherto been defeated, and the Administration of justice crippled by the hesitation to grant that one indispensable requirement, viz., the power to whip moderately for returning from banishment a criminal who, in his own country would be batten unmercifully simply as a preliminary to trial. This, with the separate system throughout the existing Gaol, should afford a practical solution of the whole question.
28. Lastly they beg to state that, should any of the above suggestions be carried out and imprisonment made more deterrent either by reduction of the diet or otherwise, they are of opinion that it will be necessary to increase the disciplinary powers of the Superintendent of the Gaol, and they beg to recommend that the powers conferred on the Superintendent of the Gaol by Section 11 of Ordinance 4 of 1863, viz., to punish by noderate corporal punishment not exceeding 12 strokes of a Rattan, any prisoner guilty of the offences in that article mentioned, be restored. in order to maintain discipline under the altered conditions of the Gaol.
29. Since writing the above, the Commission have received information on the Law respecting whipping at Singapore.
30. They note that whipping is allowed there for a great many offences for which they do not ask that it should be applied here; and in presence of the Singapore Legis- lation on this subject they trust that the restricted recommendation which they have made on this point will be considered most reasonable; and that it will receive from the authorities that consideration which the extent of the evil it is sought to check requires.
EDW. J. ACKROYD, Chairman.
A. LISTER, Treasurer.
J. M. PRICE, Surveyor General.
A. GORDON, Superintendent, Victoria Gaol,
E. MACKEAN, Acting Police Magistrate. PATRIC MANSON, M.D., Justice of the Peace. C. P. CHATER, Justice of the Peace.
149
(C.S.O.) No. 72.
(Enclosure 2.)
Superintendent of Victoria Gaol to Acting Colonial Secretary.
GAOL SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE,
HONGKONG, 30th March, 1886.
COLONIAL SECRETARY,
I feel I must again and urgently bring to the notice of Government the congested state of Victoria Gaol.
For some time past the number of Prisoners has been steadily increasing. To-day there are 674 Prisoners; deducting 7 females in a separate house, there are therefore 667 Prisoners now confined in this building.
I have in my annual Report pointed out the danger to discipline, the danger of moral contamination, and the great provocation and temptation to Prison offences, occasioned by the overcrowding in associated wards of so many Prisoners.
Prisoners. But now, as the warm weather is coming on, I must draw particular attention to the Sanitary dangers of the present overcrowding.
The cubic contents of the different cells have recently, at my request, been re- measured by the Surveyor General's Department; but as I have not yet received the measurements I assume the correctness of the old measurement, and beg to draw attention to the following alarming facts.
The cubic measurement of all the cells combined is reported as 138,948 cubic feet. This with 667 Prisoners distributed in the cells gives only 208 cubic feet per Prisoner.
150
But 71 of these cells are, solitary, crank or separate cells, containing only one Prisoner each. Each of these 71 cells has upwards of 700 cubic feet of space, some of them nearly double, but counting them only at 700 each and supposing each to be occupied, this would leave 596 Prisoners to occupy rooms whose total cubic space amounts to 89,000 cubic feet or less than 150 cubic feet per man.
I feel assured that, when these facts are taken into consideration by Government, they will recognise the necessity of taking steps to obviate the many dangers of such excessive overcrowding.
It seems to me that either the number of Prisoners must be reduced or additional accommodation must be at once provided.
There are at present 36 men in Gaol for want of Security, and 21 for gambling; these might perhaps be pardoned, but the relief would be very small, and in my opinion the best plan would be to hire another building, or a hulk where all Prisoners sentenced in default of Security, or generally sentenced to 3 months and under could be detained and breathing space thus given to the Prisoners in Victoria Gaol. This would of course necessitate an increased Prison establishment.
In short it is very evident that the Gaol accommodation is not nearly equal to the requirements of the Colony and that even if the building of a new Gaol were at once undertaken other steps would have to be adopted in the meantime to reduce the present state of congestion. Were an epidemic to break out in the Gaol in its present con- gested state the instant removal of probably half the Prisoners would become necessary. It would probably be very difficult to find immediate accommodation for them elsewhere, it would certainly be dangerous to let a large number of criminals suddenly loose on the civil population.
To some extent the congestion might be saved if Magistrates were authorised to punish certain offences by corporal punishment in lieu of imprisonment.
But I must submit that I think it becomes my duty to ask Government to fix a limit, beyond which number I shall not be compelled to receive Prisoners in Victoria Gaol.
A. GORDON.
Superintendent.
(In C.S.O. 7) No. 80.
(Continuation of Enclosure 2.)
Superintendent of Victoria Gaol to Acting Colonial Secretary.
COLONIAL SECRETARY,
GAOL SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE.
HONGKONG, 6th April, 1886.
In continuation of my letter, No. 72, of 30th ultimo, I beg to report that I have now received the measurements of the Victoria Gaol cells, recently made. from which it appears that the cubic space of the cells amounts to 203,844 feet, and not 138,948 feet as shewn in previous statistical returns.
The present state of the Gaol is therefore as follows:-
There are to-day 736 male Prisoners in Gaol giving an average of 276 cubic
feet for each Prisoner.
Of the 190 cells in Gaol 71 are used as solitary, separate and crank cells; these
can accommodate only 71 men.
2 are used as W. C. and store rooms and are unoccupied.
25 are used for European Prisoners and can only accommodate 25 men. These 98 cells only holding 96 Prisoners contain 78,053 cubic feet, leaving 640 Prisoners in associated wards with 125,791 cubic feet or an average of 195 cubic feet per Prisoner.
But it is impossible in accordance with regulations to equally distribute the Prisoners. Prisoners on removal are kept separate from convicted ones; first conviction Prisoners from old offenders, juveniles from grown up ones. Prisoners with itch have a separate ward, another is set apart for a leprous Prisoner. When therefore the itch or leper cell or juvenile cell containing perhaps 1,200 cubic feet are occupied by only one individual, the available cubic space for other Prisoners becomes correspondingly reduced.
Should the number of Prisoners rise to 800 there would be only an average of 178 cubic feet for each Prisoner in associated wards. Should the number rise to 850 the average would be 166 cubic feet.
A. GORDON.
Superintendent.
!
No. 474.
(A. in Enclosure 2.)
Acting Colonial Secretary to Surveyor General.
COLONIAL SECRETARY'S OFFICE,
HONGKONG, 1st April. 1886.
SIR,
I am directed by the Officer Administering the Government to invite you to act as Chairman of a Board consisting of the Superintendent of the Gaol, the Honourable WM. KESWICK, and yourself for the purpose of reporting on the feasibility of establish- ing a temporary prison, pending the erection of the proposed new Gaol.
I am to add that His Excellency will be glad to have the opinion of the Board on the cost of a temporary prison, and on any other matter connected therewith, which the Board may consider necessary to include in their report.
I have, &c.,
FREDERICK STEWART.
Acting Colonial Secretary.
The Honourable J. M. PRICE,
Surveyor General.
(B. in Enclosure 2.)
REPORT.
HONGKONG, 7th April. 1886.
1. The Board constituted under the Honourable Colonial Secretary's letter, No. 474, of the 1st instant, have duly met at Victoria Gaol and taken into consideration the statistics supplied by the Superintendent.
From these statistics it appears that while there are as many as 640 prisoners in the associated cells, the aggregate space of the latter does not amount to more than 125,791 cubic feet or an average of 195 cubic feet per prisoner.
2. On the other hand however, it must be mentioned that in nearly all the cells there are open windows and cross ventilation.
3. Considering the necessary delay which must take place in dealing with the large and important question of extra prison accommodation in connexion with the punish- ment of crime, the Board are of opinion that pending a settlement of this question the first efforts of Government should be directed to reducing, as far possible, the number of those inmates of the Gaol that do not belong, properly speaking, to the criminal classes.
4. It was found from the statement of the Superintendent that there were on the 6th instant 46 prisoners for want of finding surety. 39 prisoners for gambling and 12 prisoners for breaches of the Opium Ordinance.
5. Of the first 46 it is not impossible that a large proportion may be men against whose characters nothing can be found, while as to the 39 gamblers it is the opinion of the Board that whatever may be the evils from gambling, they cannot constitute as grave a danger as that which attends the overcrowding of the Gaol.
In respect of the prisoners for breaches of the Opium Ordinance, the Board are aware that it is necessary to assist the Opium Farmer in the protection of his rights, but they consider it might be possible to award other punishments besides imprison- ment for infractions of the monopoly.
6. The Board consider therefore that in the present overcrowded condition of the Gaol, it would be desirable to liberate without any delay as many as possible of these three classes of prisoners and that it would be desirable to recommend the Magistrates to refrain, except in the case of known bad characters, from committing persons to prison merely for want of security, also it might be indicated to the Magistrates to punish infractions of the Opium Ordinance by fine, in lieu of by imprisonment, while to the Police, instructions might be given to mitigate, for a time, the severity of their raids on gamblers.
7. The Board further recommend that early arrangements should be made for the permanent transfer of the youthful prisoners in the Gaol to the Reformatory at West Point, and they are also of opinion that imprisonment for debt now abolished in every part of the British Empire except Hongkong, should receive the attention of the Government on various grounds, the least of which would be that it would empty the Debtors' Ward at the Gaol and render the space available for another class of prisoners.
151
152
8. As the provision of adequate Gaol accommodation in this Colony hinges entirely on the system followed in the punishment of criminals, the Board have come to the conclusion that the two questions cannot be dealt with separately, and they find them- selves unable to submit any recommendations in respect of Gaol accommodation, provisional or permanent, without entering at considerable length into the larger ques- tion of the present treatment of the criminal classes. But this question is one of such grave importance to the community, that the Board take upon themselves to recommend that it should be referred for investigation and report to a much larger and more influential Commission than the Board as at present constituted.
9. In the belief that this would be the more adequate and satisfactory way of dealing with so important a subject, the Board now limit their observations to the few practical suggestions for immediate relief set forth in paragraphs 6 and 7.
J. M. PRICE. W. KESWICK.
A. GORDON.
C. in Enclosure 2.)
Minute by the Clerk of Councils.
On the suggestion of the Honourable the Surveyor General (Mr. PRICE) these papers are considered in Executive Council this day.
The Council advise that the Board appointed to report on this question should consist of a larger number of persons, and advise therefore the appointment of the Committee mentioned in the annexed minute by His Excellency the Officer Adminis- tering the Government.
April 7th 1886.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
(D. in Enclosure 2.)
Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government.
A Committee of the following gentlemen :-
1. The SURVEYOR GENERAL,
2. The ATTORNEY GENERAL,
3. The TREASURER,
4. The Hon. WILLIAM KESWICK, M.L.C.,
5. The SUPERINTENDENT OF Gaol,
6. ERNEST MACKEAN, Esquire, Acting POLICE MAGISTRATE,
7. CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, Esquire, J.P.,
8. ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, Esquire, J.P.,
9. Dr. PATRICK MANSON, J.P.,
are to be requested to meet at an early date to consider a report of the Superintendent of the Gaol on the insufficient accommodation in that Establishment and what steps should be taken to remedy the present state of things.
(Enclosure 3.)
Mr. A. P. MacEwen to the Chairman.
W. H. MARsh.
HONGKONG, 28th May, 1886.
SIR,
I have to express my regret at being unable to attend the last few meetings of the Gaol Commission owing to absence from the Colony.
I have given careful attention to the Report which is to be sent to His Excellency the Administrator with the approval and signatures of the members of the Commission. I do not sign the Report as there are one or two points as regards the question of punishment with which I do not concur.
¿
To be brief, I am against Flogging with exception of for offences enumerated under section 19 of Ordinance 4 of 1865 and section 31 of Ordinance 7 of 1865 and section 8 of Ordinance 16 of 1865 and for returning from banishment.
I am of the opinion, as already expressed by me at the earlier meetings of the Commission, that if the punishment of depriving a Chinaman of his queue was to be put into force it would act as a greater deterrent than Whipping. I look upon this mode of punishment in a far more serious light than apparently some of the other members of the Commission, and I may add that several respectable Chinamen with whom I have conferred upon the subject fully agree as to this mode of punishment in preference to Flogging.
I would not inflict it until a man had received fair warning say for second offence, and in cases of first offence of petty crime, give short terms of solitary confinement on sparse diet without the option of a fine.
A few examples of depriving Chinamen of their queues might have to be made, when I believe that instead of two hundred and seventy prisoners being confined for petty offences as at present this number would be very considerably reduced.
As regards increasing the discretionary power to punish, of the Superintendent of the Gaol, I am of opinion that this should be granted, but that before acting he should be requested to consult with at least one Justice of the Peace.
In all other respects I agree with the Report.
To Honourable E. J. ACKROYD,
Chairman,
GAOL COMMISSION.
I
am, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
A. P. MACEWEN.
(Enclosure 4.)
Report of a Sub-Committee consisting of:----
Honourable EDWARD J. ACKROYD, Honourable W. KESWICK,
Major-General GORDON,
Dr. MANSON, and
C. P. CHATER, Esquire
appointed to visit the Victoria Gaol at night and report on the state thereof.
The Committee appointed Wednesday the 21st April, 1886, 10 P.M. for their visit. At the last moment the Honourable W. KESWICK, was prevented from attending. The Gaol was visited at the hour and on the day mentioned by the other members of this Sub-Committee.
We visited all the cells and corridors. In those corridors where each cell was occupied by one prisoner only we found perfect ventilation.
In other cells we found that the prisoners had closed the windows which greatly interfered, if it did not altogether stop the free current of air in the cell. Many of these cells however were not overcrowded. We visited other corridors in the cells of which there were eight, ten, or eleven prisoners confined.
Although the windows in these were left open we found strong proofs of over- crowding.
We think more openings might be made in the corridors and elsewhere with a view of increasing the volume of air.
We annex a return prepared for us by General GORDON showing the number of prisoners confined in each cell on the night in question (Enclosure 10.)
This return shows the number of prisoners and the cubic space of each cell. In presence of these figures we deem it unnecessary to offer any further comments on the question of overcrowding.
EDW. J. ACKROYD,
A. GORDON,
C. P. CHATER, PATRIC MANSON.
153
154
(Enclosure 5.)
To the Chairman,
GAOL ACCOMMODATION COMMITTEE.
HONGKONG, 30th April, 1886.
Your Sub-Committee appointed to report on the present diet in Victoria Gaol met at 5.30 P.M., this day.
Present:-Major-General GORDON, Chairman.
Dr. AYRES.
Dr. MANSON.
1. The Sub-Committee examined the diet scales as were established. Compared them with those of other Colonies and also took evidence as to the usual diet of coolie labourers in this Colony.
2. The Sub-Committee next proceeded to consider the dietary scale of Chinese male prisoners sentenced to Penal Servitude. They consider the diet for this class of Prisoners is much in excess of requirements for health. They specially observe that Chinese Prisoners of this class, while receiving better diet all round in Victoria Gaol than in Singapore Gaol, are further supplied with 16 ounces of pork a week here, as against 4 ounces a week in Singapore. The Sub-Committee recommend that the pork ration to this class of Prisoners be reduced to one issue of 4 ounces per week to be issued on Sundays.
3. With reference to the diet scale of Chinese Prisoners sentenced to over six months including Penal Servitude Prisoners (Scale No. 1.) the Sub-Committee recommend that the issue of fresh fish be reduced from 6 to 4 ounces three times a week.
4. With reference to the diet scale of Chinese Prisoners sentenced to 6 months and under (Scale No. 2.) the Sub-Committee consider the diet ample, but not excessive and they do not recommend any change.
5. The same as regards No. 3 Scale for Female and Juvenile Prisoners.
6. As regards No. 4 Scale the number of Prisoners receiving this scale is very small and Debtors subsistence is paid for without cost to Government. No change is therefore recommended.
7. Numbers 5 and 6 scales of Penal and reduced Penal diet appear suitable and should not be altered.
8. As regards No. 7 or Punishment diet scale, the Sub-Committee find that this scale is throughout British Dominions fixed at 1 lb. of bread per diem for Europeans. 11 ounces of uncooked rice weighing about 24 ounces when cooked, are equal in per- centage of nutriment to 1 lb. of bread and considering that the average weight of a Chinaman is below that of a European the Committee are of opinion that 12 ounces of uncooked rice would be a most ample equivalent and strongly recommend that 12 ounces of rice be the maximum of punishment diet scale for all Chinese Prisoners.
9. The Sub-Committee further recommend that some tentative measures be adopted experimentally to substitute other vegetables such as sweet potatoes or millet for rice, which experiments could be tried on a limited number of Prisoners under the supervi- sion of the Medical Officer, and Superintendent.
10. In recommending the introduction of these dietary changes, the Sub-Committee taking into consideration the condition of the Gaol and the circumstances stated in the Superintendent's Report for 1885 para. 16 must record their opinion that such changes cannot perhaps be carried out without some risk of disturbance and insubordination on the part of Prisoners, and keeping in view the vital importance of maintaining discipline in this establishment, they recommend that simultaneously with the introduction of reductions in diet the hands of the Superintendent should be strengthened by increased disciplinary powers.
11. Superintendents of Gaols in Ceylon and the Straits Settlements have power to try prisoners summarily and award a corporal punishment of 12 strokes. The Sub- Committee consider it very necessary, in carrying out the changes recommended, that similar powers should be vested in the Superintendent of Victoria Gaol. Such powers were given him by para. 6 Ordinance No. 4 of 1863, but were suspended by Governor Sir J. POPE HENNESSY on 5th June, 1877.
A. GORDON, Chairman.
PH. B. C. AYRES, Colonial Surgeon.
PATRICK MANSON, M.D.
(Enclosure 6.)
RETURN of PRISONERS confined in VICTORIA GAOL on the 14th April, 1886.
155
Europeans. Indians. Chinese.
Total.
Sentenced to Penal Servitude of 5 Years and upwards,...
5
2
142
149
Sentenced to Penal Servitude of 3 Years and under 5
Years,
1
44
45
Sentenced to 2 Years and under 3 Years,
1
39
40
Sentenced to 1 Year and under 2 Years,
4
60
64
Sentenced to 6 Months and under 12 months,.
114
120
Sentenced to 3 Months and under 6 Months,
12
:
103
115
Sentenced to 1 Month and under 3 Months,
Sentenced to less than 1 Month,
On Remand, for Trial, &c.,
For Debt,
14
2
110
126
}
19
24
2
42
44
:
4
5
TOTAL,..
51
4
677
732
(Enclosure 7.)
Statement of Dr. Ayres.
Saturday 17th April, 1886.
Present:-All Members of the Commission, except
Honourable ALFRED LISTER.
Dr. AYRES,-I have been Surgeon to the Gaol since November, 1873.
I think the punishment diet in the Gaol could well be reduced from 1 b. of un- cooked rice to 2 lb. of uncooked rice.
Persons committed to prison in default of finding security get full diet: that could be reduced.
I think it could be reduced to 1 lb. uncooked rice.
In India for all petty offences whipping is allowed varying from 5 to 20 strokes of the rattan on the breech.
The ordinary Chinaman is as well able to bear whipping as the Indian. All sentences of whipping are subject to the opinion of the Medical Officer that the offender is able to bear it. It worked well all the time I had to do with prisoners in India.
We never had or heard of any trouble in connection with whipping.
I have recommended whipping here for petty offences.
Separate or Solitary confinement is a severe punishment for Chinamen.
There has been no trouble with respect to the health of the men sentenced to soli- tary or separate confinement.
I am not aware that whipping in India has been abolished.
I have not gone into the several methods of Chinese punishments and I cannot say whether there are any which could be introduced here.
The separate system would I think be the most severe kind of punishment for Chinamen.
I do not think you can do without whipping.
Separate confinement reduces the man.
In England you have. often to relieve the prisoner from solitary confinement. I think for the identification of prisoners and those sent back to China more recourse should be had to photography and perhaps a small tatoo mark in some place where it would not be easily seen, the inside of the arm for instance.
3
156
(Enclosure 8.)
Statement of Mr. Wise.
Saturday, May 1st, 1886.
ALFRED G. WISE,-I am a Barrister at Law, called to the bar in 1878. I have been Police Magistrate since 1st January, 1884.
For sometime I have been strongly of opinion that whipping should be allowed as a punishment for what used to be called Petty Larceny, my reason for saying so is that the offences to which I most particularly allude viz.:-cases of theft of copper nails and pieces of copper from the Dock Company have become so frequent viz.:-8 or 9 cases a week and sometimes more that the Magistrates have been obliged to go on increasing the length of imprisonment until I saw that in more cases than one the offenders had got 4 months for thefts of 5 cents or 10 cents worth of copper nails.
I tried the stocks, but my experience of them is that they did not do much good. I put these men in the stocks on the Chinese Recreation Ground, perhaps had I put them in the stocks on the site of the theft it would have been better, but then I had to consider the expense of conveying prisoner, stocks and constable to Kowloon.
I have always thought that, in cases of small thefts, such as stealing shoes put out to dry, and small thefts from the counter or a shop, it would be better to whip the offender.
I have not the slightest hesitation in saying that, for the ordinary coolie, imprisonment in Victoria Gaol is no punishment at all. He is far better off in Gaol than outside and has not such hard work. I am of opinion that whipping should also be extended to cases of returning from banishment.
I would not extend it further. I would give not more than 12 strokes to a man convicted of stealing 5 or 10 cents nails and he should be whipped as soon as possible. I should have some place in the neighbourhood of the Court for that purpose.
At present I should say there are 15 cases a week in which I think a discretion should be given to the Magistrate to inflict a whipping.
I would not inflict it and then send the man to Gaol. He should be sent away at once; the punishment would not be severe; only sufficient to cause him to remember it for a few days.
(Enclosure 9.)
SCHEDULE of DOCUMENTS sent to the Honourable the Acting Attorney General in connection
with C.S.O. No. 762 of 1886. (Enclosure 2.)
C.S.O. DOCUMENTS.
COPIES OF DESPATCHES FROM GOVERNOR
TO SECRETARY OF STATE.
COPIES OF DESPATCHES FROM SECRETARY OF STATE TO GOVERNOR.
No. 2728 of 1877, No. 3028 of 1880, No. 1453 of 1882, No. 1682 of 1882, No. 1683 of 1882,
No. 164 of 22nd November, 1877, No. 103 of 24th October, 1878, No. 111 of 13th November, 1878, No. 76 of 31st May,
No. 61 of 19th May,
1879, 1880,
No. 1684 of 1882,
No. 129 of 2nd September, 1880,
No. 45 of 7th May, No. 48 of 5th June, No. 29 of 29th July, No. 99 of 16th August, 1881. No. 39 of 17th March, 1882. No. 224 of 13th October, 1883.
1877.
1878. 1880.
No. 1685 of 1882,
No. 56 of 5th May,
1881,
No. 1686 of 1882,
No. 60 of 19th May,
1881,
No. 2263 of 1882, No. 2272 of 1882,
No. 57 of 9th May,
1882,
No. 144 of 27th July,
1882,
No. 2399 of 1882,
No. 202 of 26th August,
1883,
No. 2452 of 1882,
No. 2518 of 1882, No. 2535 of 1882,
No. 2688 of 1882,
No. 4256 of 1882,
No. 4547 of 1882,
No. 990 of 1883,
No. 1042 of 1883, No. 1135 of 1886,
t
Enclosure 10.)
VICTORIA GAÓL.
RETURN SHOWING NUMBER OF PRISONERS IN ASSOCIATED WARDS AS SEEN BY COMMITTEE
ON THE NIGHT OF 21ST APRIL, 1886.
A. II. No. of Cell.
Cubic contents of Cell.
Number of Prisoners in Cell.
Remarks.
60-10 QUIA CO 10 par
1431.
2
1578
3
1578
1578
1578 1578
1578
1049
9
1347
10
1390
11
1382
12
1425
13
1726
14
1765
15
1425
16
1382
17
1390
18.
1347
7
19
1049
4
20
1578
6
21
1578
7
22
1578
7
23
1578
24
1578
25
1578
PNFERNON- ∞ ∞ 1-∞ 1-∞ 110 NHONDENN
7. 77
7.
7
7
8
4
7
8
8
7
8
7
5
7
All long sentence prisoners.
A III.
Cubic contents of Cell.
No. of Cell.
Number of Prisoners in Cell.
Remarks.
1
1177
10
2
1177
10
3
1177
11
1177
11
1177
10
1177
10
1177
9
8
1049
4
9
1209
9
10
1248
9
11
1232
10
12
1278
9
13
1560
9
14
1593
12
15
1278
10
16
1232
9
17
1248
10
18
1209
10
19
1049
5
20
1177
10
21
1177
10
22
1177
10
23
1177
9
24
1177
9
All short sentence prisoners--six months and under.
25
1177
9
157
158
RETURNS-Continued.
B II. No. of Cell.
Cubic contents of Cell.
Number of Prisoners in Cell.
Remarks.
1589
2
1589
3
1589:
1589
6
710
I
6
1589
4
Remand pri-
soners.
B III. No. of Cell.
Cubic contents of Cell.
Number of Prisoners in Cell.
Remarks.
1
2
1381
5
1381
130 TH 10 6
1381
6
1381
6
5
638 1381
i
5
In occupation
night.
day and
C III. No. of Cell.
Cubic contents of Cell.
Number of Prisoners in Cell.
Remarks.
1
1156
2
1409
3
1409
4
1409
5
1709
6
1709
7
1359
8
1359
9
10
1359 1228
I-I-101-CG 10 50 30
1
Leper Cell.
Itch Cells.
6
Short sentence.
6
Indiaus.
Juveniles.
Europeans ou remand.
E III. No. of Cell.
Cubicicontents of Cell.
Number of Prisoners in Cell.
Remarks.
1
1378
1378
1378
1378
1378
1354
1354
1378.
1378
9
10
1378
11
1378
12
1409
13
1200
10
FIAT 20 TH TH 30 32 COLO
5
Short Sentence and Secu-
rity prisoners.
-Europeans.
Chinese Cooks.
:
249
No. 8
87.
HONGKONG.
REPORT OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF VICTORIA GAOL FOR 1886.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 21st January, 1887.
No. 17.
GAOL SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE,
HONGKONG, 14th January, 1887.
COLONIAL SECRETARY,
I beg to forward herewith Annual Statistical Return of Victoria Gaol for the year 1886, and beg at the same time to offer the following few observations.
2. In my previous year's Report I submitted that in our Gaol administration we ought to be guided, as far as circumstances allow, by the long and very successful experience of English Prison administration, where a combination of deterrent and reformatory Prison discipline had resulted in a great decrease of crime and reformation of the criminal classes, and as far as the very different conditions of this Gaol admitted, it has been my endeavour, during the past year, to carry out the system which in England has proved so successful.
3. It must, however, be remembered that in the peculiar position of Hongkong, Prison adminis- tration, however excellent, can have but a very small influence in diminishing the criminal population which is not so much bred in the Colony as imported from the neighbouring Chinese Provinces, and the greater or smaller influx of which is chiefly dependent on extraneous causes. While therefore we may expect that both the deterrent and reformatory results of judicious Prison administration may have considerable effect in reducing the proportion of re-convictions, the administration of the Gaol can have only slight influence, one way or another, on the increase or diminution of the floating criminal population confined in the Gaol. If, as recommended by me last year, criminals discharged from Gaol were by legislative enactment placed under Police supervision, we should be able to have some reliable statistics as to how far habitual criminals had been reformed into industrious and honest citizens. At. present we can only judge vaguely, by comparing, year by year, the percentage of re-convictions. Some improvement is shewn in this respect in 1886. On the last day of the year 32 per cent. of the prisoners in Gaol were re-convicted prisoners, as against 35 per cent. of the previous year.
SUBORDINATE STAFF.
4. The Gaol Staff, besides the Warden and Head Turnkeys, consists of first and second Class Turnkeys, all Europeans, and first and second Class Assistant Turnkeys, now mostly Europeans, but having a proportion of coloured men and natives among them. These men have all been trained in the Gaol. None of them had any previous training in Gaol discipline. But more than half the Turnkeys now on the staff, including nearly all appointed during the past year, have been trained to discipline in the Army. The conduct of the European Officers during the year has been good; they were generally zealous and painstaking, they were just and judicious in their intercourse with prisoners and contributed much to the increased discipline which is very observable among the prisoners.
5. I had occasion, in my Report for 1885, to speak unfavorably regarding the coloured and native staff. I can now report a considerable improvement in that class. The most untrustworthy among them were weeded out. Those that remain are decidedly improved. I believe they have benefited from the example of the Europeans. The undue familiarity with prisoners, so observable at first, has now disappeared and I believe that illicit dealings between Turnkeys and prisoners have altogether ceased.
PRISON BUILDINGS.
6. The Prison buildings remain in the state in which they were at the date of my last Report. The difficulties we have to contend against from overcrowding in associated wards, and from want of proper work-shops, remain as before. They have already been pointed out by me at some length, and need not be repeated. I need only again record my opinion that a really satisfactory deterrent and reformatory Prison discipline cannot be established without the introduction of the separate system and suitable work-shops.
:
250
7. On the 30th March last, I made a pressing representation to Government on the overcrowded state of the Gaol and the subject was fully enquired into by a Commission of which the Honourable E. J. ACKROYD was Chairman. Their Report, dated 1st June, 1886, submitted several recommendations, which have in part been carried out, and are, I understand, in part still under the consideration of Government, but no material relief to the congested state of the Gaol has as yet been experienced, and the danger to discipline, the danger of moral contamination, and the provocation and temptation to Prison offences which I pointed out as due to the overcrowding in associated wards, now exists in as full force as ever.
8. Notwithstanding the limited and inconvenient space, an extra loom for grass-mat making and an extra loom for coir-mat making have been put up for work during the year. This not only increases the number of prisoners instructed in industrial work, but adds to the profits of the Gaol.
PRISONERS AND THEIR DISCIPLINE.
9. In the previous year's Report, I expressed an opinion that Chinese convicts were as amenable to discipline and disposed to be as well conducted as those of most other races. The experience of another year has confirmed me in this opinion. The number of Prison offences reported during the year has indeed been great, compared with those of English Prisons, but this, as formerly reported, is in a great measure due to the enforced association of prisoners, by day and night, at meals, at labour and in sleeping, and also, though in a less degree than formerly, to want of training and experience in Prison Officers. Yet the present year shows a slow but marked and steady improvement, as to the number and nature of Prison offences. In 1885, with an average number of 530 prisoners, 6,473 Prison offences were reported, giving an average number of something over 12 Prison offences a year for each prisoner. In 1886, with a daily average of 674 prisoners, 7,198 offences were reported giving an average number of a little over 10 offences a year for each prisoner. This modest though satisfactory improvement is not owing to any slackness in reporting Prison offences. For increasing strictness in this respect has been the steady rule during the year. But it is not only satisfactory to observe a reduction in the average number of Prison offences, but still more satisfactory to observe that the general experience of the results of a judicious Prison discipline have been verified in this Gaol, in so far as a much larger proportion of the offences during the past year have been committed by a smaller number of habitual offenders. On the last day of 1885 there were only 78 Chinese prisoners in Gaol who had been free of punishment for three months, while on the last day of 1886, there were 144 prisoners who had been free of Prison punishment for three months and, among these, 44 had been free of punishment for a whole year.
10. While there is a proportionate reduction, as compared with last year, of every kind of Prison offence, this reduction is most appreciable in the graver Prison offences.
11. The inveterate temptation of prisoners, in constant association, to talk is difficult to overcome. The offences under this head in 1885, were 2,132 to a daily average of 530 prisoners amounted to a small fraction above 4 offences per man per annum. In 1886 these offences were 2,659 to a daily average of 674 prisoners and amounted to a small fraction under 4 offences per man per annum.
12. The other graver offences, such as assaults, acts of violence or insubordination, obtaining tobacco or opium, show a marked diminution.
13. During the year 7 cases of insubordination towards and assaults on Officers of the Gaol were tried as against 11 cases in 1885. Of these cases 6 offenders were awarded corporal punishment and one was awarded additional imprisonment by the Police Magistrate. The cases of prisoners assaulting and fighting with each other show a fair actual and considerable proportional reduction. Nine of these cases were tried by the Superintendent and a Visiting Justice; eight of these offenders were awarded corporal punishment, and one solitary confinement. Another case, an aggravated assault with a hammer, was tried in the Supreme Court. The remaining cases of assaulting and fighting were not serious and were in fact mostly squabbles over food or work.
14. The reduction in the number of offences of having tobacco or opium is a most marked feature during the past year. This is chiefly due to the great attention and vigilance of the Prison Officers. The ingenuity of prisoners and their friends, as exercised in the efforts to pass in these narcotics, is very great, and constant vigilance is necessary.
15. In my Report for 1885, I detailed the steps adopted with this view. The tobacco introduced during the year has chiefly been brought in by the chain-gang, and by far the greater number of these offences are for secreting stumps of cigars or cigarettes picked up on the road or at work.
16. In my Report of 1885, I adverted to the risk of possible conspiracies, with so many convicts living in association. This year has not been without its experience in this respect. A conspiracy was made to set fire to the Gaol, in hopes of effecting an escape in the confusion. The attempt was frustrated, ample information having been received in time, and I am in hopes of shortly obtaining sufficient evidence to prosecute the intending incendiaries. As a full report on this subject was sub- mitted, to Government at the time, it seems unnecessary to enter into details here. The desperadoes concerned in such attempts are generally members of the Triad Society. It is very difficult to get any
1
L
251
information from members of this society, although it has been done before now. But Chinese prisoners who are not Triads are often not unwilling to give information, provided they are not called on to give evidence in a Court which would expose them to the vengeance of the illegal societies.
17. Prison discipline during the year 1886 has, in my opinion, made steady and satisfactory progress. I annex Returns as to Prison offences similar to those submitted last year, adding for the sake of comparison the statistics of 1884 and 1885. In the Return showing prisoners previously con- victed, it will be observed that in 1886, 32 per cent. of prisoners confined on the last day of the year were old offenders as against 35 per cent. in 1885.
LABOUR ON PUBLIC WORKS AND INDUSTRIAL LABOUR.
18. A chain-gang of prisoners has been working during the year under the orders of the Surveyor General on Public Works. It has generally consisted of about 60 men. During the year 1885 and in previous years the work of the chain-gang had not given satisfaction. The men had been allowed extra food, and had not apparently been kept to much hard work by the officers in charge. In con- sequence of the recommendation of a Committee, Government directed the issue of extra food to be discontinued on the 26th June last. The system hitherto in force, of changing the officers in charge of the chain-gang monthly, appeared to me unsuitable and tending to careless supervision. I therefore directed the Head Turnkey in charge and his first assistant, to be kept on this duty for six months at a time and made them responsible for a proper amount of work being done. The result has been satisfactory. The Surveyor General has assured me that during the past year the work done by the chain-gang has been satisfactory and valuable.
19. The other industrial work carried on in the Gaol has, on the whole, been as satisfactory as the limited space for work-shops would allow. Considering the great advantage of teaching trades to the criminal class, it is very desirable that facilities should be afforded for the extension of industrial labour.
20. I append an abstract showing the actual profits or savings to Government in ten different industries carried on in the Gaol. The total profit during the year amounts to $3,849.66.
21. I have also recently commenced a new industry. Instead of purchasing the tin plates and mugs for the prisoners' food and tea, I procured old kerosine oil tins and commenced making the plates and
mugs in Gaol. In next Annual Report this will be shown as a profitable industry.
22. I will only offer a few short remarks on prison industry.
23. OAKUM-has, like in the previous year, been the most profitable industry, but it has the draw- back, that in doing this work the prisoners cannot be said to be learning a trade. The demand is also limited and the storage of picked oakum is dangerous. The surplus now on hand will therefore shortly be sold by auction.
24. Coir YARN.-Another loom has been started during the year and the work has gone on well; the output has been more than doubled and the profit nearly doubled.
25. Rattan WorK.-This work has been steadily progressing, but the sale has as yet been limited. 26. NET-MAKING.-This work is only carried on when orders are received. The amount of work done has been less than in the previous year.
27. GRASS-MAT MAKING.-Another loom has been added and the work done during the year was more than triple that of the previous year.
28. WASHING.-A strict account of this industry has been kept this year, for the first time, and it appears that, charging for washing at only half the usual rate in Hongkong (one cent per piece) a very profitable saving has been realised.
29. CARPENTERING-is almost entirely confined to work done for the Gaol.
30. TAILORS' SHOP.-The work in this shop has been considerably extended. The summer clothing of the Gaol Officers was, this year, made up in the Gaol, but under considerable difficulties, and a.cer- tain amount of free labour from outside had to be hired to complete the work. I do not think this should be tried again, unless the officer in charge understood the business of tailoring.
31. SHOE-MAKING.-This trade has been very successfully enlarged.
successfully enlarged. All the boots and shoes for Prison Officers have been made and very well made in this shop at a saving of about half a dollar on each pair.
32. PRINTING-has been done for Public Offices and some money has been realised for book- binding.
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
33. The most important suggestion I have to offer is one which I repeatedly made, viz.: that immediate steps should be taken to introduce the separate system at least as regards long sentence prisoners, and to increase the space for work-shops and industrial labour. Unless this is done, no really
i
252
efficient deterrent and reformatory Gaol discipline can be established on a firm basis. As the building of a new Gaol seems unlikely to be undertaken for some time, I can only repeat my suggestion of last year that short sentence prisoners, that is, men sentenced to 6 months and under, should be removed to some other building, or perhaps to a hulk; this would leave space enough in Victoria Gaol to accommodate long sentence prisoners on the separate system, and also give more space for industrial work.
34. I would also repeat my suggestion that habitual criminals and others who have earned remission of sentence should be placed by legislative enactment (as in England) under Police supervision, so that, if found returning to a criminal career, they might at once be sent back by the Magistrates to prison.
35. While the Gaol is as now so greatly overcrowded, I think the Government might take into consideration the case of the large number of prisoners mostly belonging to the criminal classes who are confined for want of finding security for good behaviour. I am not allowed to make these men work. They are well fed and live comfortably in associated idleness. I brought this subject to notice in paragraph 21 of my Report for 1885. I am sorry to say, I believe many of these men rather like their sentence and will not find security even when able to do so. And it seems an incongruity that while honest destitutes who are provided with food and lodging in Gaol are compelled to do a daily task of work, the criminal security men are freed from the obligation of performing any labour whatever beyond cleaning their own cells. 479 men were imprisoned during the year for want of finding security.
36. The overcrowding of the Gaol might also be to some extent reduced, if other punishment than imprisonment could be found for the persons now imprisoned for gambling. 399 men have been committed to prison for this offence during the year. The great majority of these men do not belong to the criminal classes. They are mostly hard-working men, rice pounders, and coal porters. They overcrowd the Gaol; they are neither deterred from gambling by imprisonment nor are they improved. It is too much to be feared that many of them are deteriorated and corrupted by compulsory and constant association with the criminal classes they meet in Gaol.
(A.)
VICTORIA GAOL.
Return of Reports for talking, &c., in the years 1884, 1885 and 1886.
MONTH.
A. GORDON,
Superintendent.
1884.
Daily average number in Prison, 552.
1885.
Daily average number
in Prison, 530.
1886.
Daily average number
in Prison, 674.
January, February,
March,
April,
May,
June,
July,..
August,
September,
October,
November,
December,
14
55
119
17
25
135
32
44
248
24
23
330
31
252
197
70
362
298
77
289
- 297
72
344
232
50
254
318
64
174
209
35
148
183
43
162
93
Total,.......
529
2,132.
2,659
A. GORDON,
Superintendent.
253
(B.)
Return of Offences reported of Prisoners fighting with or assaulting each other, for the years 1884, 1885 and 1886.
MONTH.
1884.
Daily average number
in Prison, 552.
1886.
Daily average number Daily average number
in Prison, 674.
1885..
in Prison, 530.
January, February, March, April,
22
28
14
16
18
15
23
18
17
26
29...
32
May,
June,
July,
29
6
31
DMAY 241100
22
19
19
27
13
August, September, October, November, December,
24
13
13
30
12
:
:
14
13
21.
10
2880
8
17
9
7
January, February, March, April,
May,. June,
....
Total,...
270
204
195
A. GORDON,
Superintendent.
YROW
(C.)
Return of Offences reported of Prisoners having Tobacco, for the years 1884, 1885 and 1886.
MONTH.
1884.
Daily average number in Prison, 552.
1885. Daily average number in Prison, 530.
1886.
Daily average number in Prison, 674.
July,.
August,
September,
October,
November,
December,
Total,..
$65
74
28
76
78
16
647
82
14 ··
52
133
11
66
106
7
・
:60
61
15
(72
*52
--9
69
47
11
82
17
31
$50
23
17
41
15
30
39
21
23
719
709
212
A. GORDON,
Superintendent.
(D.)
Comparative Return of Prisoners confined in Victoria Gaol on the 31st December, 1885, and 31st December, 1886, from 1st to 12th Convictions.
CONVICTION.
1st,
2nd,
3rd,
4th,
5th,
6th,
•
7th,
8th,
9th,
"
10th,
11th,
12th,
*
TOTAL,........
1885.
1886.
375
414
41
62
29
35
-30
•·27-
28
24
23
18
20
15
16
10.
1.
3
41
3
573....
612
A. GORDON,
Superintendent.
254
(E.)
ABSTRACT of ACCOUNT OF INDUSTRIAL LABOUR, VICTORIA GAOL, FOR THE YEAR 1886.
Dr.
OAKUM.
Cr.
1886.
To Stock on hand, 1st January, 1886, $ 11.05 1886.
By Oakum sold during the year,
$2,055.25
وو
Cost of Paper Stuff purchased
1,259.56
"
during the year,
Profit during the year,
1,238.74
Stock on hand, 31st Dec., 1886,—
Paper Stuff, Oakum,
Total,.....$
2,509,35
Total,.......
..$
454.10
2,509.35
COIR YARN.
1886.
To Stock on hand, 1st Jan., 1886,
$ 13.86 1886.
وو
Material purchased during the Į
1,332.45
year,
By Matting sold during the year,
Issue for Prison use during the
year,
$ 954.58
7.68
Profit,.
447.02
Stock on hand, 31st Dec., 1886,-
Material, 13,203 lbs.,. Manufactured,
792.18
38.89
Total,......
1,793.33
Total,.......
1,793.33
RATTAN WORK.
1886.
To Stock on hand, 1st Jan., 1886,
Cost of Material purchased during
the year,
Profit,
$158.70 1886.
By Chairs, &c., sold during the year,
$349.20
321.22
""
Fenders sold,....................
50.70
22
149.49
""
Articles made for Gaol use,.. Stock on hand, 31st Dec., 1886,-
51.03
Material, Chairs, &c.,
10.98
167.50
Total,........ ..$
629.41
1886.
Total,.
.$
629.41
NET MAKING.
To Stock on hand, 1st Jan., 1886,
1886.
""
Cost of Material purchased during
$41.35
the year,
Profit,.
54.07
Total........
95.42
By Value of Nets sold during the
$64.40
year,
Issue for Gaol use,
23.60
"
Stock on hand, 31st Dec., 1886,- Twine, 8 lbs.,...
3.20
Wax,
0.87
2 Nets,
3.35
GRASS MATTING.
Total,.......
95.42
1886.
"
To Stock on hand, 1st January, 1886,
Material purchased during the
14.34 1886.
135.87
By Issue for Prison use during the
$$$
year,
year,
""
Profit,.
46.64
""
Matting sold during the year, Stock on hand, 31st December,
57.10
96.09
1886,-
Grass,
.372 tbs.,
9.77
!
Hemp,
61 lbs.,
.39
Manufactured, 223 yds.,
33.50
Total,.......
196.85
Total,..
196.85
1886.
To Stock on hand, 1st January, 1886,
Material purchased during the
""
year,
Profit,..
WASHING.
1886.
By Value of Washing done during
$387.05
821.67
وو
the year, Prison Clothing, at 1 cent a piece,..
Stock on hand, 31st December,
1886,-
Total,..
1,208.72
$ 1,180.67
Soap,
.350 lbs.
Coals,
3 cwt.
26.25 1.80
Total,.
$
1,208.72
1886.
To Value of Stock on hand, 1st
""
January, 1886,
Cost of Material purchased during
the year,
Profit,.
CARPENTERS' SHOP.
255
1886.
$ 4.55
By Value of Articles made for Gaol use,
$139.16
""
Work done for Officers, &c., and
charged for,
40.73
208.50
Stock on hand 31st December,
14.34
1886,-
Material; Wood, &c.,..........
14.45
Value of manufactured
Articles,..
33.05
Total,.......
227.39
Total,......
227.39
TAILORS' SHOP.
1886.
To Stock on hand, 1st January,
1886, Flannel,
1886.
405.00
Material purchased during the
1,352.17
year,
Profit,.
248.13
59
Total,..
2,005.30
By Value of Prisoners Clothing made during the year, (including Officers' Summer Uniform Suits,)
Work done for Officers, Police,
&c., and charged,
$ 1,497.22
107.35
>>
Stock on hand, 31st December,
1886,-
Flannel, Canvas, &c., Made-up Canvas Suits, Flannel Shirts, &c.,.
191.27
209.46
Total,.....
2,005.30
SHOEMAKERS' SHOP.
1886.
To Stock on hand, 1st Jan., 1886,
Material, &c.,
1886.
$ 62.35
Cost of Material purchased during
the year,
Profit,..
619.18
50.16
By Estimated value of Shoes sup- plied to Prisoners and Repairs, Two Issues, Summer and
Winter, Uniform, Shoes to Prison Officers,
$ 74.60
265.50
دو
Sale to Prison Officers, &c.,
326.42
""
Stock on hand, 31st December,
1886,-
Material and value of new Shoes and San- dals,
65.17
Total,.......
731.69
PRINTING AND BOOK-BINDING.
Total,.....$
731.69
1886.
To Stock on hand, 1st Jan., 1886,
Printing Ink,
1886.
1.00
Printing and Book-binding Ma- terial purchased during the year,
Profit,..
32.40
By Estimated value of Printing done for Public Offices during the year, (112,943 forms),
$752.50
779.40
>>
Cash received for Books bound, Work done for Gaol use, (Book- Į
binding),
23.00
30.00
>J
Stock on hand, 31st December,
1886,-
Book-binding Material,...
7.30
Total,......
812.80
Total....
..$
812.80
PROFITS.
Oakum,....
Coir Yarn,
.$1,238.74
447.02
Rattan Work,
Net Making,
Grass Matting,.......
Washing,
Carpentering,
Tailoring,
Shoemaking,
149.49
54.07
46.64
821.67
14.34
248.13
50.16
Printing and Book-binding,
779.40
Total,......
$3,849.66
A. GORDON,
Superintendent.
Victoria Gaol Office, Hongkong, 14th January, 1887.
•
159
No. 35
1886.
HONGKONG.
CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING THE GERMAN MAIL STEAMERS.
Presented to the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 27th August, 1886.
The Secretary of State for the Colonies to the Officer Administering the
Government of Hongkong.
HONGKONG.
No. 82.
Memo: 24th February, 1886.
.
SIR,
DOWNING STREET,
24th June, 1886.
I have the honour to transmit to you the accompanying copies of a Memo- randum delivered by Count BISMARCK to Her Majesty's Ambassador at Berlin, and
Lord ROSEBERY, 26 Ap., 1886 of a letter in reply to it from the Earl of Rosebery to the German Ambassador at
;
this Court, relative to a request made by the German Government that certain mail vessels subsidized by that Government, should be placed on the same footing as the French Messageries Maritimes Steamers, under the Postal Convention with France of September 24th, 1856.
It is the wish of Her Majesty's Government that the privileges mentioned in article 5 of the Postal Convention with France, should be extended to these German vessels so long as the French Convention shall remain in force, and I therefore request that you will take the necessary steps for procuring the enact- ment of an Ordinance similar to No. 10 of 1884, for this purpose.
The Officer Administering the Government of
(Copy.)
HONGKONG.
I have, &c.,
(Signed),
R. H. MEADE, For the Secretary of State.
MEMORANDUM.
From July next the North German Lloyd at Bremen intends to establish a line of steamers to run between Germany, China and Australia.
The steamers will carry the official mail, for which they will receive a certain subsidy from the Imperial German Government. Besides the steamers are bound to transport, free of cost, criminals from abroad to Germany.
As, according to British Law such criminals, when the steamer touches at a British Colonial port, might demand a hearing before a British Judge, thus delay- ing the course of law and preventing the prompt delivery of the mail, the Imperial Government lays great stress on these mail steamers being looked upon as in some sense men-of-war.
This demand does not appear to be an unusual, one, for in modern Treaties of Commerce and Navigation such privileges have more than once been accorded to subsidized mail-steamers.
160
The British Government, for instance, has done so in the Postal Treaty concluded with France on September 24th, 1856. Moreover, by special Ordinance, the steamers of the Messageries Maritimes touching at Hongkong have been granted a similar privilege.
The Imperial Government, though not appealing to the provision expressed in clause I of the Treaty concluded between Great Britain and Prussia on August 16th, 1865, hope, nevertheless, that in conformity with the modern principles of International Law, the British Government will see their way to confer upon the subsidized mail steamers of the North German Lloyd the same privileges as have been granted to the French Mail steamers by the above-mentioned Treaty.
Berlin, February 24th, 1886.
(Copy.)
The Earl of Rosebery to Count Hatzfeldt.
!
M. L'AMBASSADOR,
FOREIGN OFFICE,
April 26th, 1886.
I have placed myself in communication with the Secretary of State for the Colonies with reference to the best mode of giving effect to the wishes expressed by your Government that the privileges of Ships-of-war which are accorded by Article V of the Convention between Great Britain and France of September 24th, 1856, to vessels subsidized by their respective Governments for Postal purposes should be extended to the North German Lloyd's line of steamers which is about to be established between Germany, China and Australia and which will receive a subsidy from the German Government for the carriage of mails.
I have already informed your Excellency that Her Majesty's Government are most willing to comply with the wishes of the Imperial Government in the matter, so far as they can legally do so, and I will proceed to explain the position of Her. Majesty's Government with reference to the Postal Convention with France of 1856 and to a similar convention with Belgium of February 17th, 1876, both of which contain the same provision granting the privileges of Ships-of-war to subsi- dized Postal Vessels.
From the time when the French line of the Messageries Maritimes first began to run to India and China difficulties have constantly arisen in the application of Art. V of the French Convention by reason of the Commanders of the steamers of that Company insisting with the support of French Consuls upon exercising the privileges conferred by it in their strictest sense, and so as to defeat the course of criminal justice and to deprive in certain cases private individuals of their civil remedies. In 1878 a case of collision arose at Dover between a subsidized vessel of Belgium, Le Parlement Belge, and the British steam-Tug Daring which raised the question of the privileges granted by the Belgian Postal Convention before the Tribunals in this Country. The Courts held that it was not competent for the Crown without authority of Parliament to clothe these subsidized vessels with the immunities of Foreign Ships-of-war so as to deprive British subjects of their right to proceed againts them for the enforcement of their legal rights. That decision has naturally added to the difficulty of the situation and a voluminous correspon- dence has taken place between the British and French Governments arising out of the conflicts which have occurred at Hongkong, Singapore and Ceylon between the judicial authorities and the Messageries Maritimes. Indeed Her Majesty's Government would have been compelled to determine the Postal Convention with France by notice under Art. 37 were it not that the more recent instructions which appear to have been given to the Commanders of the French Postal steamers have prevented a renewal of the complaints of the Colonial Governments.
'
His Excellency
161
In view of the decision of the Courts in this Country in the case of the Parlement Belge it is clear that Her Majesty's Government are unable to secure to Postal vessels that complete immunity from the process of the local Courts which is the privilege of Ships-of-war, but if the Imperial Government are prepared to cause instructions to be issued to the Imperial Consular Officers and to the Com- manders of the North German Lloyd's steamers and to the Agents of the Company in all British ports of call to give all necessary facilities to the local authorities in relation to Customs Regulations and to judicial process and not to claim to exercise the privilege in question to the detriment of public justice or of public rights it is unlikely that any practical difficulties will arise.
Her Majesty's Government are therefore prepared on that understanding to signify to the Governors of the Colonies at which the steamers of the North German Lloyds are intended to touch that the line is subsidized by the Imperial Govern- ment for Postal purposes and that it is the wish of Her Majesty's Government that the privileges mentioned in Art. V of the Postal Convention with France September 24th, 1856, should be extended to its vessels so long as the French Convention shall remain in force.
It is right however to add that both the French and Belgian Conventions may be determined at any time owing to the difficulties which I have pointed out and to the fact that as the British Mail steamers on the lines to India, China and Australia only touch at British ports they practically derive no benefit from the Article in question, while the other provisions of the Conventions have for the most part been abrogated by the Postal Union Treaty of Berne of October 9th, 1874, and by the Convention of Paris (the Universal Postal Union) of June 1st,
1878.
COUNT HATZFELDT,
&c., &c., &c.
•
(Signed)
ROSEBERY.
167
No.
38 1886.
HONGKONG.
DESPATCH RESPECTING THE GERMAN MAIL STEAMERS.
(Continuation of No. 35.)
Presented to the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 17th September, 1886.
The Right Honourable Earl Granville, K.G., to the Officer Administering the Government of Hongkong.
(Copy.)
HONGKONG.
No. 119.
SIR,
DOWNING STREET,
2nd August, 1886.
With reference to my Despatch, No. 82, of the 24th of June, regarding the extension of certain privileges to the Mail steamers of the North German Lloyds, I have the honour to acquaint you that the German Ambassador in London has informed the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs that instructions have been
sent to the German Consular Officers at the Ports in British Possessions where
the steamers of that Company will call, and to the Officers of the Company, in the sense suggested in Lord ROSEBERY's note to Count HATZFELDT of the 26th of April last, copy of which was enclosed in my despatch above mentioned.
The Officer Administering the Government of
HONGKONG.
I have, &c.,
(Signed),
GRANVILLE.
.
་
No. 34
87.
451
HONGKONG.
DESPATCH RESPECTING THE APPOINTMENT OF SIR GEORGE WILLIAM DES VŒEUX, K.C.M.G. TO BE GOVERNOR AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF HONGKONG.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 19th September, 1887.
HONGKONG,
No. 143.
SIR,
DOWNING STREET,
9th August, 1887.
I have the honour to inform you that the QUEEN has been pleased to appoint Sir GEORGE WILLIAM DES Vœux, K.C.M.G. to be Governor and Commander-in- Chief of Hongkong in succession to Sir GEORGE Bowen.
Sir GEORGE DES Vœux will proceed to Hongkong viâ America by a steamer leaving Vancouver on the 5th of September or by one leaving San Francisco on the 30th of August.
The Officer Administering the Government of
HONGKONG.
I have the honour to be,
ì
Sir,
Your most obedient humble Servant,
H. T. HOLLAND.
.
371
No. 26
87.
HONGKONG.
THE HARBOUR MASTER'S REPORT FOR 1886,
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 29th April, 1887.
No. 47.
HARBOUR DEPARTMENT, HONGKONG, 10th February, 1887.
SIR,-I have the honour to forward the Annual Returns of this Department for the year ending 31st December, 1886.
I. Number, Tonnage and Crews of Vessels entered. II. Number, Tonnage and Crews of Vessels cleared.
III. Number, Tonnage and Crews of Vessels of each Nation entered. IV. Number, Tonnage and Crews of Vessels of each Nation cleared:
V. Total Number, Tonnage and Crews of Vessels entered at each Port. VI. Total Number, Tonnage and Crews of Vessels cleared at each Port. VII. Return of Junks entered from Macao.
VIII. Return of Junks cleared for Macao.
IX. Return of Junks entered at each Port from China and Formosa.
X. Return of Junks cleared at each Port for China and Formosa.
XI. Gross Total Number of Junks entered at each Port.
XII. Gross Total Number of Junks cleared at each Port.
XIII. Return of Junks (Local Trade) entered.
XIV. Return of Junks (Local Trade) cleared.
XV. Summary of Arrivals and Departures of all vessels, and of all Chinese Passengers. XVI. Return of Vessels registered.
XVII. Return of Vessels struck off the Register.
XVIII. Amount of Fees received under Section 3 of Ordinance No. 8 of 1879.
XIX. Return of Chinese Passenger Ships cleared by the Emigration Officer.
XX. Return of Vessels bringing Chinese Passengers to Hongkong from Places out of China. XXI. Return of Marine Cases tried.
XXI. Diagram of Tonnage of Vessels entered.
SHIPPING.
2. Under this heading, in arrivals, there is an increase on the previous year of 879 steam-ships and 727,855 tons; a decrease in sailing vessels of 56 ships representing 23,268 tons; and in junks there is a decrease of 703 vessels with 44,354 tons.
3. The total number of arrivals in the Colony in 1886 was 27,222 vessels and 6,324,164 tons, or at the rate of about 74.6 vessels, averaging about 232 tons each, per diem, comprised as follows: 10.8 steamers; 0.8 sailing vessels; and 63.0 junks. This does not include the traffic between Victoria, and the outlying villages, nor that conducted in steam-launches.
4. Of the Nationalities of the various vessels there is an increase of 11 Austrian, 491 British, 109. Chinese (European built), 37 Danish, 37 French, 184 German, 13 Italian, 17 Norwegian, and a decrease of 57 American and 21 Spanish vessels.
5. Of the 4,251, European built vessels that arrived in 1886, 111 were American, 23 Austrian, 2,982 British, 142 Chinese, 55 Danish, 38 Dutch, 123 French, 676 German, 22 Norwegian, 33 Spanish, and other Nationalities in smaller numbers. It will thus be observed that vessels under the British flag absorbed 70 per cent. of the whole.
6. Of the Countries with which this enormous trade is conducted, that with China and Formosa is the greatest, being 24,358 vessels and 3,923,953 tons, or an increase of 277,907 tons in British bottoms, an increase of 168,389 tons in foreign bottoms, excluding junks, but a decrease of 12,355 tons in junks. In British and foreign vessels there is an increased trade with Cochin China, and Japan. With the Philippine Islands, and Macao there is an increase in British vessels. The trade with the Island of Hainan and the Gulf of Tonquin shows a decrease of 36 vessels and 10,635 tons in British vessels, and an increase of 61 vessels and 23,265 tons under foreign flags. In arrivals from the Continent of Europe, the trade is about the same in British vessels, while there is an increase of 37 vessels and 63,515 tons in foreign ships. From Great Britain, there is an increase of 12 vessels and 19,189 tons in British vessels, and no difference in the arrivals of foreign vessels from that Country.
የ
372
7. The following Table shows the number and class of vessels arrived in the Colony in 1885 and 1886 :-
Years. Steamers. Tons.
Sailing Vessels..
Tons.
Junks. Tons.
1885, 1886,
3,084 3,632,051 344 234,658 3,963 4,359,906 288 211,390
23,674 1,797,222 22,971 1,752,868
Increase,
879 727,855
Decrease,..
56 23,268
703 44,354
8. These returns do not give more information than the number of vessels and their Registered tonnage whether with cargo or in ballast, so that the actual trade with the Colony is unknown.
9. Whether it is advisable that an Import and Export Office, similar to the one at Singapore, should be established at this Port is a question that the Chamber of Commerce might be disposed to consider. Such an Office would require quarters to be built, and a staff of proper Officers to perform the duties. It is a question of expense and whether such a Department, if created, would be to the advantage of the Mercantile Community. It certainly would make known what we have hitherto been in ignorance of.
JUNKS.
10. The junk trade for the year, excluding that with villages in the locality, shows a decrease of 703 vessels and 44,354 tons. From the Coast of China and Formosa, it is 486 vessels and 12,355 tons, and from Macao 217 vessels and 31,999 tons. The trade in junks with Canton suffered some- what in July of last year, consequent on the additional taxation of imports and exports; but the trade is gradually resuming its former condition. The trade with Macao also dropped at the same time, consequent on the Chinese Government exacting taxes on cargoes to that place in junks, and the trade has improved but very little since, nothing but rice and coals being now conveyed in junks from Hongkong to that Settlement. This taxation has led to increased steam communication between Hongkong, Canton and Macao.
EMIGRATION.
11. There is an increase of 7,005 emigrants to various places during the year, the Straits Settlements showing an increase of 11,136, while there is a decrease of 3,854 Chinese to San Francisco. 2,690 Chinese left for various places in the Australian Colonies showing an increase of 343 on the previous year.
REGISTRY OF SHIPPING.
12. Nine vessels were registered during the year, and eight Certificates of Registry were cancelled.
MARINE MAGISTRATE'S Court.
13. Fifty-eight Cases were heard in the Marine Magistrate's Court during the year.
EXAMINATIONS FOR THE POSTS OF MASTERS, MATES AND, ENGINEERS UNDER SECTION 15 OF ORDINANCE 8 OF 1879.
14. The following Table will show the number of Candidates who passed, and who failed in obtaining Certificates of Competency :
Masters,
First Mates, Only Mates,
Second Mates,
GRADE.
PASSED.
FAILED.
6
13.
17
6
1
23
29
24
First Class Engineers,
11
I
Second Class Engineers,
20
4
31
5
373
MARINE COURTS, UNDER SECTION 13 OF ORDINANCE 8 OF 1879.
15. The following Courts have been held during the year :-
1. On the 19th February, 1886,-Inquiry as to the loss of the British Steam-ship Douglas, Official No. 84,357 of Hongkong, on the White Rocks on the 11th February, 1886. The Master's (MATTHEW YOUNG) Certificate of Competency was suspended for four
months.
2. On the 10th March, 1886,-Inquiry as to the striking of the British Steam-ship Thames, Official No. 85,898 of Glasgow, on the South-west point of the Lyemoon Pass, on the 2nd March, 1886. The Master's (WILLIAM ARTHUR SEATON) Certificate of Competency was returned to him.
3. On the 24th March, 1886,-Inquiry as to the loss of the British Barque Bothwell Castle, Official No. 47,822 of Newcastle, N.S.W., on the Reef surrounding Ngarik Island, Caroline Group, on the 21st December, 1884. There was not sufficient evidence-before the Court to enable them to apportion any blame for the casualty. A Court of Inquiry was also held at Sydney on the arrival of the Master, Second Mate and two of the Crew at that Port
.
4. On the 1st April, 1886,-Inquiry as to the loss of the British Steam-ship Breconshire, Official No. 79,674 of London, on the White Rocks, on the 7th Mrach, 1886. The Master's (WILLIAM EDWIN POPE) Certificate of Competency was suspended for three months. 5. On the 19th April, 1886,-Inquiry as to the stranding of the British Steam-ship Veneria Official No. 68,388 of Glasgow, on Isaki Reef off Cape Tanabé, near Kobe, on the 26th March, 1886. The Master's (WILLIAM EDWARD LAWRENCE CLEMENT) Certificate of Competency was returned to him.
6. On the 12th July, 1886,-Inquiry as to the loss of the British Steam-ship Compton, Official No. 77,080 of London, on the South-west side of the Island of Balabac in the Palawan Passage, on the 12th June, 1886. The Master's (MATTHEW BRYCE WALKER) Certificate of Competency was returned to him.
Į
7. On the 30th August, 1886,-Inquiry as to the loss of the British Steam-ship Madras, Official No. 70,626 of London, on a rock in the Bay within the West side of the Tai Chow Islands, on the 15th August, 1886. In the absence of the Master (HENRY PLENGE) who was washed overboard and drowned, and the Chief Mate's injuries having incapa- citated him from performing his duties, there was not sufficiently good evidence to enable the Court to arrive at a satisfactory conclusion as to the exact position of the rock on which the Madras struck, nor are the courses the ship is said to have been steered, very reliable. 8. On the 14th October, 1886,-Inquiry as to the stranding of the British Steam-ship Dafila,
Official No: 68,501 of Sunderland, on the South Bank, Hainan Straits, China, on the 12th May, 1886. The Master's (JAMES MOONEY) Certificate of Competency was returned to him.
9. On the 25th November, 1886,-Inquiry as to the stranding of the British Steam-ship Greyhound, Official No. 81,647 of London, on a reef running out from Nan Sa Point in the Gulf of Tonquin, on the 2nd November, 1886. The Master's (THOMAS ABRAHAM THOMAS) Certificate of Competency was returned to him.
In the latter Case, the Court recommended that the attention of the Chinese Government be called to the want of lights and marks in the Hainan Straits, which has led to the stranding of several vessels.
SEAMEN.
16. 8,589 Seamen were shipped at the shipping Office during the year, and 9,229 discharged.. 17. I am glad to see that provision is made in the Estimates for this year for the construction of a long wanted jetty off this Office, and I trust there will be no delay in building it. The present slipway answered very well when nothing but gigs were used, but it is only at certain times of the tide that a steam-launch can get in to land people, and the boats not unfrequently touch the ground to the injury of their keels and bottoms.
18. Provision has also been made for making Hunghòm, a "Harbour Master's Station," under Section 38 of Ordinance 8 of 1879. Great inconvenience is felt by the Owners and Masters of boats frequenting that place, in having to go to Victoria or Yaumáti report their arrivals and obtain their papers. This Station will, I hope, soon be ready. At present an Officer has to visit Hunghòm daily, but this is attended with much loss of time, expense, and inconvenience.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Acting Colonial Secretary.
H. G. THOMSETT, R.N., Harbour Master, &c.
{
I.-NUMBER, TONNAGE, and CREWS of Vessels ENTERED at Ports in the Colony of Hongkong from each Country. in the Year 1886.
FOREIGN.
TOTAL.
374
BRITISH.
COUNTRIES WHENCE ARRIVED.
WITIL CARGOES.
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
WITH CARGOES.
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
WITH CARGOES.
Vessels.
Tons. Crews. Vessels.
Tons. Crews. Vessels.
Tons. Crews. Vessels.
Tons. Crews. Vessels. Tons. Crews. Vessels.
Tons.
Crews. Vessels.
IN BALLAST. Tons. Crews. Vessels. Tons. Crews. Vessels.
TOTAL.
Tons.
Crews.
Australia and New Zealand,
59
67,756| 2,428||
59
67,756 2,428
British Columbia,.......
...
British North Borneo,.
29
4 2,421] ` 64
27,369 465 2,032] 34
29
27,369
465
Coast of China and Formosa,....
1,658 1,807,169 67,577 37
Cochin China,
171
204,640 5,747
Continent of Europe, ....
44
75,031 4,163]
44
75,031 4,163| 100 177,729 7,997;
41 2,421 64
2 2,0321 34 41 2,421 64
37,628 1,181 1,695 1,844,797 68,758 14,033 1,424,589 193,887 8,030 654,567 108,840 22,663 2,079,156 297,727 15,691 3,231,758 261,461 8,667 692,195 105,021 |24,358 3,923,953 366,485 171 204,640 5,747 131 114,609) 3,428||
131 114,609 3,428 302 319,249| 9,175|
302 319,249 9,175 145 252,805 12,176
21
• 2,032
34
881
2
95,125 2,893||
2,032
88
95,125 2,893
34
::
4
2,421 64
:
Great Britain,
167 242,587 6,600
167 242,587 6,600 27
32,233 603
:;.
India and Singapore,
91 119,465 6,149]
367 '10
Japan,
141 192,100 6,508
Java and other Islands in the Indian Archi-
pelago,
7
Macao,
8,314]
329 412,609 15,276]
257
19
654
92 · 119,832|| 6,159] 141 192,100 6,508
8,314]
54 331 413,263 15,330||
53
44,110 1,376||
76
84,171| 4,346
257
25
25 29,797 1,371
:
527
88,854 13,634
Mauritius,
3
North Pacific,
::
3,135
116
74
11]
::
Philippine Islands,
81
48,580 3,473
3
Ports in Hainan and the Gulf of Tonquin,
74
26,831 2,007
1,384
227
42
84
49,964 3,515| 52
28,388 1,651
24
75
27,058 2,031
207
$3,973. 4,466||
Russia in Asia,..
1,776
169
Sandwich Islands,..
1,230
25
Siam,
95
82,052 3,099
95
82,052 3,099 431
30,032
991
:
South America,...
694
16
United States of America,
21
44,153 1,548
21
44,153 1,548 42
76,716 2,763
1
45
16
101 177,774 8,013|
144 252,760 12,160)
271
***
393
2,669
18
54
108
78
32,233 603 44,503 1,394 144 163,575 7,525 86,840 4,454 217 276,271 10,854
194 274,820 7,2031
25
29,797 1,371
32
38,111 1,628]
237
33,741 3,489
764
122,595 17,123
856
501,463 28,910]
239
3
3,135| 116
3,135 116
3
3,135
1
74
11
74 11
116
74 11
1,034 36
54
29,422 1,687
138
76,968 5,124
2,418
78
138
79,386 5,202
207
...
83,973 4,466||
281
110,804 6,473
227
24
282
111,031 6,497
1,885 104 8,563 70
3,661 278
1,776 · 169
1,885 104
4,793 95
2 1,230|
25
3,563 70
43
30,032 991
138
112,084 4,090
138
4,793 95 112,084) 4,090
788 16
42
1,482 32 76,716 2,763
1
694 16
788
16
63
120,869 4,311
63 120,869 4,811
:
:
1
45
16
...
760
2,669
28
108
194 274,820| 7,203. 146 164,335 7,553
219 278,940 10,962
32 38,111 1,628 34,395 3,543 1,095 535,858 32,453
::
3,661 278
1,482 32
:
...
TOTAL,....
2,938|3,331,287|124,832|
44
40,260
1,811 2,9828,371,547 126,145 15,360 2,253,932 237,4138,880 698,685 107,697 21,240 2,052,617||
,617 345,110 18,2985,585,219 362,245 8,924 788,945 109,008 27,222 6,324,164 471,253
COUNTRIES TO WHICH DEPARTED.
Australia and New Zealand,
British Columbia,.
British North America,
British North Borneo,
Coast of hina and Formosa,
Cochin China,
Continent of Europe,
Great Britain,
II-NUMBER, TONNAGE, and CREWS of Vessels CLEARED at Ports in the Colony of Hongkong for each Country, in the Year 1886.
TOTAL.
BRITISH.
FOREIGN.
Vessels.
WITH CARGOES.
Tons. Crews. Vessels.
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
WITH CARGOES,
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
WITH CARGOES.
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
Tons. Crews. Vessels.
Tons. Crews. Vessels. Tons. Crews. Vessels.
Tous. Orews. Vessels.
Tons. Crews. Vessels.
Tous. Crews. Vessels.
Tons.
Crews. Vessels.
Tons. Crews
24,170 1,084
1,826 34
184 10
1,525|
231
24,351 1,094)
22
22
573
16
8,351 56 578 16
3,268 62
8,509
131
11,777 193
24,170, 1,084) 6: 5,094 *961
184
10,084
1,339
261
2 1,389! 26
1,765 1,901,112 75,282
22
19
281 26,768 925 39,061 2,385| 31,896 1,616| 200 284,532 10,788 113 178,477 6,693
49
123
731
19 18,670 469 91,172 2,283
5
6,701 181
52,987 1,642 1,8141,954,099|74,924|16,973;1,794,255 241,001 5,481 153,354 4,076|| 151 180,122 5,001 76 75,328 2,816 60 22 39,061| 2,385| 34 70,084 4,396 19 31,898 1,616|| 219 303,202 11,257 186 269,649 8,976 5 6,701 181
2,931 53 80 112,536 3,973)
83
336 417,350 15,580)
336| 417,350| 15,580|
648
3,116 86
21
20
10,718 8501 33,492; 2,134
13,468 267
15
83
3,116 86 24,179 1,17 24 38,507 2,202|
13 120,837 6,506| 21 249 9
105,442 15,266
74
12,825
11,947 305
17,619 655
2,862 79 2,862 79 288,458 54,468 22,454 2,077,713 295,469 18,7388,695,867 314,283 0,530 53,890 1,498 136 128,718 4,814 104 102,096 3,741 34! 70,084 4,396 56 109,145 6,781 2,931 531 34,829 1,669]
98 124,483 4,278] 397,068 1-1,761
104 138,456 7,161
16.
105
22
280
196
299,314 13,199]
94
B
2,083
66
4
2,332 75
47
6,707:
816
695
112,149; 16,082-
984
2491
522,792 30,846||
9
32 30,617; 774 108,791
8,784
2,938
247
47
6,707 816
453
10
3
527 22
I
74
4:
3,569 101
580
227
94,609 4,847
33,153
298
5461
52!
45,478 1,076|
44
23,086 1,380
41
46,621
813
17
228
94,902 4,864, 309 128,101 7,041)
308
25
B
8,705 217
3:
3,705 217
3: 8,705 217
183|
15.128
573 573
4,201 7 4,201 105 336,445 56,110 24,2684,031,812 370,393 206,744 5,574 287 308,840 9,315 56 109,145 6,781 22 34,829 1,669 312 427,685 15,535 290 408,105 16,137 9 9,038 256 1,081 529,499 81,662 D 3,643 108 85 69,657 2,193 128,409 7,066 3,705 217
10 23 24,354 1,094 153 14
249
16
311
684. 26 32,212 1,146
1,060|
381
40
6841 26 33,272 1,184|
4,826 126
4,826: 126
91 5,510 152
5,510 152
10
14,373 285
10
14,373 285
29 20,278 651 6 3,528 79 31 37,888 677
16
10,605; 3541 1,333; 20
4,057
30,878 1,005
68 52,485 1,797
11,665
$92
62 34
4,861 99 41,945 739
41
8,528 79 52,261| 962]
1,333)
201
851 64,150 2,189 7: 4.861
99
4,057
62]
44;
56,318 1,024
India and Singapore,
Japan,
Java & other Islds. in the Indian Archipelago,
Macao,
North Pacific,
Philippine Islands,
Ports in Hainan and the Gulf of Tonquin,.............
Russia in Asia,.
Sandwich Islands,
Siam,....
South America,
United States of America.
TOTAL..
2,660|2,996,666 116,888
291 344,164 9,124 2,951 3,340,830 126,012 18,230 2,462,158 281,216 5,688 436,469 59,032 23,918 2,898,627 340,248 20,890 5,458,824 398,104 5,979 780,633 68,156 26,869 6,239,457 466,200
375
376
III.-NUMBER, TONNAGE and CREWS of Vessels of each Nation ENTERED at Ports in the Colony of Hongkong,
in the Year 1886.
NATIONALITY
OF
VESSELS.
ENTERED.
WITH CARGOES.
IN BAELAST.
TOTAL.
Vessels. Tons. Crews. Vessels. Tons.
Crews.
Vessels.
Tons.
Crews.
American,
104
141,217
3,930
7
7,905
121
111
- 149,122
4,051
Austrian,
23
44,514
1,337
23
...
Belgian,
1
865
15
1
44,514 .865
1,337
15
British,
2,938
3,331,287
124,832
44
40,260
1,311
2,982
3,371,547
126,143
Chinese,
141
182,912
6,835
1
392
21
142
Chinese Junks,
14,161
1,105,352
190,032
8,810
647,516
106,144
22,971
183,304 1,752,868 296,176-
6,856
Danish,
52
21,111
1,064
3
1,785
55
55
22,896 1,119
Dutch,
· 38
49,995
2,533
38
49,995 2,533
French,
121
175,269
12,400
2
1,003
38
123
176,272
12,438
German,
622
451,222
15,571
54
36,564
1,116
676
487,786
16,687
Hawaiian,
1
340
11
1
340
11
Italian,
12
18,718
677
1
542
12
13
19,260
689
Japanese,
4,882
292
...
...
7
4,882
292.
Norwegian,
22
21,586
505
22
...
21,586
505
Russian,
6
9,675
570
2
2,978
190
8
12,653
760
Siamese,
16
7.483
299
16
7,483
299
Spanish,
33
18,791
1,342
33
18,791
1,342
TOTAL,.....
18,298 5,585,219 362,245
|
8,924
738,945 109,008 27,222 6,324,164 471,253
IV.-NUMBER, TONNAGE and CREWS of Vessels of each Nation CLEARED at Ports in the Colony of Hongkong,
in the Year 1886.
CLEARED.
NATIONALITY
WITH CARGOES.
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
OF
VESSELS.
Vessels. Tons. Crews. Vessels.
Tons. Crews.
Vessels. Tons.
Crews.
American,
66
Austrian,
19
100,049 3,221 37,547 1,216
44
49,085
842
110
19
Belgian,
1
British,
2,660
2,996,666 116,888
291
Chinese,
131
168,579 6,336
1
Chinese Junks,
17,187
1,468,505 237,769
5,485
865 344,164 392 261,858
15 9,124 23 54,422
1 2,951 132 22,672
149,134 37,547 865
4,063
1,216
15
3,340,830
126,012
168,971
6,359
1,730,363
292,191
Danish,
48
19,832
999
2,545
80
52
22,377 1,079
Dutch,
31
42,258 2,197
3,713
163
36
45,971 2,360
French,
120
176,856 12,405
7
3,051
132
127
179,907
12,537
German,
554
386,332
14,059
112
90,006
2,501
666
476,338
16,560
Hawaiian,
340
11
1
340
11
Honduras,
1
177
11
1
177
11
Italian,
9
17,562
657
3
2,042
39
12
19,604
696
Japanese,
7
4,882
283
7
4,882
283
Norwegian,
10
7,982
192
14
14,541
375
24
22,526
567
Russian,..
8
12,141
684
Siamese,
15
7,145
279
Spanish,
30
16,853 1,180
221
1,964
102
10
14,105
786
995
38
17
8,140
317
527
17
31
17,380
1,197
TOTAL,
20,890 5,458,824 398,104 5,979
780,633
68,156 26,869 6,239,457 | 466,260
V. TOTAL NUMBER, TONNAGE AND CREWS OF VESSELS ENTERED AT EACH PORT IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG, IN THE YEAR 1886.
BRITISH.
FOREIGN.
TOTAL.
NAMES
WITH CARGOES.
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
WITH CARGoes.
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
WITH CARGOES.
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
OF PORTS.
Vls. Tons. Crews.
Vls.
Tons. Crews. Vls. Tons. Crews. Vis.
Aberdeen,
513
Shaukiwán,..
Stanley,
389
165
...
Victoria,
Yaumáti,..
...
Total,
2,938 3,331,287 124,832
2,938 3,331,287 124,832
41
467
...
44
Tons. Crews. Vis.
27,713 5,969| 487 15,280 3,706) 611 13,456 1,844 175 40,260 1,311 2,982 3,371,547 126,148 13,826 2,126,001 218,669 5,471 71,482 7,225 2,136 40,260 1,311 2,982 3,371,547 126,143 15,360 2,253,932 237,418 6,880 698,685|107,697| 24,240| 2,952,617 345,110 18,298 5,585,219 362,245 8,924
Tons. Crews. VIS.
Tons. Crews. Vls. .Tons. Crews. Vls. 29,717 6,828| 1,000| 57,430 12,797 513 27,713 5,969 487 37,334 5,759|| 1,000|| 52,614 9,465)| 389 15,280 3,706| 611 10,928 1,956 340 24,384 3,800| 165 175
13,456 1,844) 518,662 67,354 19,297 2,644,668 286,023 16,764 5,457,288 343,501 5,515 102,044 25,800 2,603 173,526 33,025 467 71,482 7,225 2,136
Tons. Crews. Vis.
Tons. Crews.
29,717 6,828 1,000 37,334 5,759 1,000| 10,928 1,956j 340)
57,480|12,797 52,614 9,465 24,384 3,800 558,922 68,665 22,279 6,016,210 412,166 102,044 25,800 2,603 173,526 33,025 738,945 109,008 27,222 6,324,164 471,253
VI. TOTAL NUMBER, TONNAGE AND CREWS OF VESSELS CLEARED AT EACH PORT IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG, IN THE YEAR 1886.
BRITISH.
FOREIGN.
TOTAL.
NAMES
OF PORTS.
WITH CARGOES.
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
WITH CARGÕES.
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
WITH CARGOES.
IN BALLAST.
TOTAL.
Vls. Tons. Crews.
Vis.
Tons. Crews. Vls.
Tons. Crews. Vls.
Tons. Crews. Vis.
Tons. Crews. Vls.
Tons. Crews. Vls.
Aberdeen,
...
Shaukiwán,.....
Stanley,.
213
541
161
...
...
11,121 2,286 787 32,655 4,468| 18,046 1,759|
46,309 10,511| 1,000
435
179
19,435 4,805 11,338 2,034|
976
340
Victoria,
2,660) 2,996,666 116,888
Yaumáti,
...
Total,.
2,660| 2,996,666|116,888
291 344,164 9,124 2,951 3,340,830 126,012 16,141 2,831,940 259,164 2,980 73,396 13,549 1,307 291 344,164 9,124 2,951|3,340,830126,012 18,230 2,462,158281,216 5,688
264,547 23,797 19,121
1,174
94,840 17,885 2,481
Tons. Crews. Vls.
213
57,430| 12,797| 11,121 2,286| 787
541
52,090 9,263] 32,655 4,458 435 24,384 3,793| 161 13,046 1,759 179 2,596,487 282,961 18,801 5,828,606 876,052 3,271 168,236 31,434 1,174 73,396 13,549 1,307 436,469 59,032 23,918 2,898,627 840,248 20,890) 5,458,824898,104 5,979
Tons. Crews. Vis. Tons. Crews.
46,309|10,511| 1,000| 976
19,435 4,805) 11,838 2,034| 340
608,711 32,921| 22,072 5,937,817 408,978 94,840 17,885 2,481 168,236 31,434 780,639|68,156| 26,869 6,239,457 466,260
57,430 12,797
52,090 9,283 24,384 3,793
་
377
7
378
VII.-Total Number, Tonnage, Crews and Passengers of Junks ENTERED from Macao, during the Year
ending 31st December, 1886.
CARGO.
BALLAST.
TOTAL.
Vessels.
Tous.
Crews.
Passen-
.gers.
Vessels. Tons. Crews.
Victoria,
499
75,399
13,055 1,219
229
Passen-
gers.
29,382 3,307 1,121
Vessels.
Tous. Crews.
l'assen- gers.
728
104,781 16,362 2,340
Total,... 499 75,399 13,055 1,219
229
29,382 3,307 1,121
728
104,781 16,362 2,340
VIII.—Total Number, Tonnage, Crews and Passengers of Junks CLEARED for Macao, during the Year
ending 31st December, 1886.
CARGO.
BALLAST.
TOTAL.
Vessels.
Tons. Crews.
Passen- gers.
Vessels. Tons. Crews.
Passen-
gers.
Vessels.
Tons. Crews.
Passen-
gers.
Victoria,
618 90,288 14,633 1,391
46
6,315
793
876
664
96,603 15,426 -2,267
Total,... 618 90,288
14,633 1,391
46
6,315
793
876
664 96,603 15,426 2,267
IX.-Total Number, Tonnage, Crews and Passengers of Junks ENTERED at each Port in the Colony of Hongkong,
from Ports on the Coast of China and Formosa, during the Year ending 31st December, 1886.
CARGO.
BALLAST.
TOTAL.
Vessels. Tons. Crews.
Passen- gers.
Vessels.
Tous.. Crews.
Passen-
gers.
l'assen-
Vessels. Tous. Crews.
gers.
Aberdeen, Shaukiwán,.
513
27,713 5,969
34
487
29,717 6.828
56
1,000 57,430 12,797
90
389
15,280 3,706
187
611
37,334
5:759
53
1,000
52,614 9.465
240
Stanley,
165
13,456 1,844
15
175
10,928
1,956
Victoria,
12,128
902,022 158,233 | 123,498
5,172
438,111
62,494
Yaumáti,.
467
71,482 7,225
38
2,136
102,044 25,800
45 29,905 47
340 24,384 3,800 17,300 | 1,340,133 | 220,727 |153,403
2,603 173,526 33,025
60
85
Total,... 13,662 1,029,953 176,977 123,772
8,581
618,134 102,837 30,106
22,243 1,648,087 279,814 | 153,878
X.-Total Number, Tonnage, Crews and Passengers of Junhs CLEARED at each Port in the Colony of Hongkong,
for Ports on the Coast of China and Formosa, during the Year ending 31st December, 1886.
Cargo.
BALLAST.
TOTAL.
Vessels. Tous. Crews.
Passen-
gers.
Vessels. Tous. Crews.
Passen-
gers.
Vessels. Tons: Crews.
Passen-
gers.
Stanley,.
Victoria,
Yaumáti...
Aberdeen,
213
11,121 2,286 Shaukiwán,... 541
32,655 4.458 161
13,046 1,759 14,480 1,247,999 201,084 1,174 73,396 13,549
Total,... 16,569 1,378,217 223,136 130,791 5,439
27
787
46,309 10,511
202
1,000
57,430 12,797
229
146
435
19,435 4,805
59
976
52,090 9,263
205
83
179
11,338
2,034
53
130,442
2,731
83,621
18,394
10,111
93
1,307
94,840
17,885
293
340. 17,211 2,481
24,384 3.793
136
1,331,620 219,478 | 140,553
168,236 31,434
386
255,543
53,629
10,718 22,008
1,633,760 276.765141,509
379
XI.—Gross Total Number, Tonnage, Crews and Passengers of Junks Entered at each Port in the Colony of Hongkong, (exclusive of Local Trade), during the Year ending 31st December, 1886.
CARGO.
BALLAST.
TOTAL.
Vessels. Tons. Crews.
Passen- gers.
Vessels.
Tons. Crews.
Passen-
gers.
Vessels. 'Tons. Crews.
Passen-
gers.
r
Aberdeen,
513
27,713
5,969
31
487
29,717 6,828
56
1,000
57,430 12,797
90
Shankiwan,..
389
15,280
3,706
187
611
37,334
5,759
53
1,000
52,614 9,465
240
Stanley,
165
13,456
1,844
15
175
10,928
1,956
45
340
24,384 3,800
60
Victoria,
12,627
977,421 171,288
124,717
5,401
467,493
65,801
31,026
18,028
1,444,914 | 237,089
155,743
Yaumáti,.
467
71,482
7,225
38
2,136
102,044
25.800
47
2,603
173,526 33,025
85
Total,... 14,161 1,105,352 190,032 124,991
8,810
647,516 106,144
31,227 22,971 1,752,868 | 296,176
156,218
XII.-Gross Total Number, Tonnage, Crews and Passengers of Junks CLEARED at each Port in the Colony of
Hongkong, (exclusive of Local Trade), during the Year ending 31st December, 1886.
CARGO.
BALLAST.
TOTAL.
Vessels. Tons. Crews.
Passen- gers.
Vessels.
Tons. Crews.
Passen- gers.
Vessels. Tons. Crews.
Passen-
gers.
Aberdeen,
213 Shaukiwán,... 541
11,121 2,286 32,655
27
787
4,458
146
435
46,309 10,511 19,435 4,805
202
1,000
57,430
12,797
229
59
976
52,090 9,263
205
Stanley,
Victoria,
Yaumáti,.
161 15,098 1,174
13,046 1,759
83
1,338.287 215,717 131,833
2,777
73,396 | 13,549
93
1,307
179 11,338 2,034 89,936 19,187 94,840 17,885
53
10,987 293
340
24,384 3,793 17,875 | 1,428,223 | 234,904
2,481
168,236 31,434
136
142,8:20
386
Total,...
17,187|1,468,505 237,769 | 132,182
5,485
261,858
54,422
11,594
22,672 | 1,730,363 292,191
143,776
XIII-Return of Junks ( Local Trade) ENTERED at the Port of Victoria from the Out-stations of the Island and
the Villages in British Kaulung, during the Year ending 31st December, 1886.
CARGO.
BALLAST.
TOTAL.
Vessels. Tons. Crews.
Passen- gers.
Vessels. Tons. Crews.
Passen- gers.
Vessels. Tons. Crews.
Passen- gers.
Victoria,.
3,634 117,916 38,574 3,958 1,295 39,993 11,513 6,136 4,929
157,909 50,087 10.094
Total,...
3,634 117,916 38,574 3,958 1,295 39,993 11,513 6,136 4,929 157,909 50,087 10,094
XIV.-Return of Junks (Local Trade) CLEARED from the Port of Victoria for the Out-stations of the Island and
the Villages in British Kaulung, during the Year ending 31st December, 1886.
CARGO.
BALLAST.
TOTAL.
Vessels.
Tons. Crews.
Passen-
gers.
Vessels. Tons. Crews.
Passen- gers.
Passen-
Vessels. Tons. Crews.
gers.
Victoria,
2,037 55,481 16,642 8,714 2,989 109,726 34,267 815 5,026
165,207❘ 50,909
9,529
Total,... 2,037 55,481 16,642 8,714
2,989 109,726
34,267
815
5,026
165,207 50,909 9,529
380
XV.-SUMMARY.
FOREIGN TRADE.
NO. OF VESSELS.
TONS.
CREWS.
British Vessels entered with Cargoes,..
2.938
3,331,287
124,832
Do.
do.
in Ballast,
44
40,260
1,311
Total,
2,982
3,371,547
126,143
British Vessels cleared with Cargoes,
2,660
2,996,666
116,888
Do.
do. in Ballast,
291
344,164
9,124
Total,
2,951
3,340,830
126,012
Total of all British Vessels entered and cleared,
5,933
6,712,377
252,155
Foreign Vessels entered with Cargoes,
15,360
2,253,932
237,413
Do.
do. in Ballast,..
8,880
698,685
107,697
Total,.
24,240
2,952,617
345,110
Foreign Vessels cleared with Cargoes,
18,230
2,462,158
281,216
Do.
do. in Ballast,
5,688
436,469
59,032
Total,
23,918
2,898,627
340,248
Total of all Foreigu Vessels entered and cleared,,
48,158
5,851,244
685,358
Total of all Vessels entered with Cargoes,
18,298
5,585,219
362,245
Do.
do.
in Ballast,
8,924
738,945
109,008
Total of all Vessels entered,
27,222
6,324,164
471,253
Total of all Vessels cleared with Cargoes,
20,890
5,458,824
398,104
Do.
Do.
do.
Total of all Vessels entered and cleared with Cargoes,
Total of all Vessels engaged in Foreign Trade only, entered and cleared,.......
do.
in Ballast,
Total of all Vessels cleared,
do. in Ballast,
5,979
780,633
68,156
26,869
6,239,457
466,260
39,188
11,044,043
760,349
14,903
1,519,578
177,164
54,091
12,563,621
937,513
LOCAL TRADE.
Total of all Vessels entered,
Do.
4,929
157,909
50,087
cleared,
5,026
165,207
50,909
Total of all Vessels engaged in Local Trade only, entered and cleared,
9,955
323,116
100,996
Total of all Vessels engaged in Foreign Trade only, entered and cleared,
Do.
do. in Local Trade only,
54,091
12,563,621
937,513
do.
9,955
323,116
100,996
Grand Total of all Vessels entered and cleared,
64,046
12,886,737
1,038,509
SUMMARY OF ALL CHINESE PASSENGERS.
NAMES OF PLACES.
From Ports other than in China or Japan,
Do.
in China and Japan,
Do.
in Macao,
Do.
in Villages of the Colony,...
88,704
612,263
57,782
10,094
Total Arrivals,.
768,843
Left for Ports other than in China or Japan,
-64,522
Do.
in China and Japan,
Do.
in Macao,......
Do.
in Villages of the Colony,
588,430
53,004 ·
9,529
Total Departures,...
715,485
Excess of Arrivals over Departures,.........
53,358
Grand Total of Arrivals and Departures,
1,484,328
XVI.-RETURN of VESSELS REGISTERED at the Port of Hongkong, during the Year 1886.
Name of Vessel.
Official Number.
Regis- Horse
tered
Power. Tonnage.
Rig.
Built of
Where built and when
Remarks, &c.
381
Agnes, str.,
88,839 293.48 30
None
Wood Hongkong, 1886.
Formosa, str.,
88,840
674.00 200
Schooner
Iron
Newcastle on Tyne, 1885.
Carisbrooke, str.,... 65,463.
973.07 140
Schooner
Iron
Dicky, str.,
Sual, str.,
Consuelo, str., ••••••
Camorta, str.,
Pasig, str.,
Soochow, str.,
88,841 143.72 30
64,100 781.61 60
88,842 15.18 10
84,285 1,355.27 | 200
58,335 257.44 45
48,331 326.59 95
Schooner Iron Kiel, 1883.
Schooner Iron Hongkong, 1873.
Cutter Wood Hongkong, 1886.
Schooner Iron Glasgow, 1881.
Schooner Iron
Glasgow, 1867.
Schooner Iron
Cork, 1858.
*
Sunderland, Durham, 1873.
Since sold to Foreigners at
this Port..
Foreign name "Carisbrooke."
Poreign name "Dicky."
Since sold to Foreigners at
Manila.
Foreign name Camorta."
Foreign name "Pasig."
Formerly H. I. C. M. S.
"Kwang-wai.'
XVII.-RETURN of REGISTRIES of VESSELS cancelled at the Port of Hongkong, during the Year 1886.
Name of Vessel.
Rig.
Built of
Where built and when
Reason of Cancellation.
Amatista, str.,... 73,453 522.06 1883 140 Schr. Iron
Dumbarton, 1880.
Sold to Foreigners at this Port.
Androklos,
73,454 392.36 1883
:
Sual, str.,
Douglas, str.,
Guam,
64,100 456.49 1883 60 Schr. Iron
Hongkong, 1873.
Amity,
Agnes, str., ...... 88,839
Consuelo, str.,... 88,842
84,357 982.33 1883 240 Schr. Iron
54,885 290.88 1883
Schr. Wood Pallion, Sunderland, 1866.
62,522 519.02 1885
Barq. Iron
Sunderland, 1869.
293.48 1886 30 None Wood Hongkong, 1886.
15.18 1886 10 Cutter Wood Hongkong, 1886.
Aberdeen, 1882.
Barq. Wood Apreurade, Germany, 1866. Sold to Foreigners at Kana-
gawa.
Registered de novo in conse- quence of alteration in tonnage. Stranded, 1886.
Sold to Foreigners at Yoko-
hama.
Transferred to Singapore, 1886.
Sold to Foreigners at this Port.
Sold to Foreigners at Manila.
XVIII. AMOUNT of FEES received under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1855, and Section III of Ordinance No. 8 of 1879 in the Harbour Department, during the Year 1886.
Matter or Duty in respect of which Fee taken.
Number.
Fee.
Amount.
Remarks, &c.
*A
$
#A
Alteration in Agreement with Seamen,
1
1
1
Certifying Desertion,
144
1
144
Declaration of Ownership,..
11
2
22
Endorsement of change of Master,
34
1
34
Endorsement of change of Ownership,.
1
2
2
Granting Certificate of Imperial Registry,
9
15
135
Iuspection of Registry,
10
1
10
Recording Mortgage of Ship,
Recording Discharge of Mortgage,
Recording Sale of Ship,...
Registering Certificate of Sale,
10 10 10 2
5474
25
20
34.78
8
Total,.......$
435.78
382
XIX. RETURN of CHINESE PASSENGER SHIPS cleared by the Emigration Officer, Hongkong, during the Year ending the 31st day of December, 1886.
No.
DATE CLEARED.
SHIP'S NAME,
TONS.
NATION- ALITY OF SHIP.
ADULTS.
CHILDREN,
MASTER'S NAME.
WHITHER BOUND.
TOTAL.
M.
F.
M.
F.
January 5 Mirzapore, str.........
""
6 Zambesi, str..............
2,164 British 1,540
R. Harvey F. Cole
Straits Settlements
197
197
735
46
17
12
810
3
""
8
August, str.
1,026 Norwegian
P. Isberg
605
17
631
>;
4
12
Tai Sang, str.
1,505 British
T. L. Davies
318
26.
355
>>
5
""
13
Ingraban, str.
894 German
J. R. Massmann
341
352
Singapore
128
Port Darwin
Cooktown
6
"
13 Airlie, str..
1,492 British
W. Ellis
Townsville
182
Rockhampton Brisbane Sydney
191
Melbourne
9
789
15 Belgic, str.
2,695
W. H. Walker
San Francisco
130;
21
16 Diomed, str.
1,47H
W. E. Guthrie
Straits Settlements
296!
""
23
16 Arratoon Apear, str.
1,392
A. B. Mactavish
252
30
~
:
31
136
296
10
303
27
"2
Port Darwin
19
Cooktown
Townsville
10
دو
19 Fei Lung, str.
752
W. N. Allison
39
Brisbane Sydney
Melbourne
11
""
19 Cathay, str.
1,884
J. P. Hassall
Straits Settlements
164
""
164.
12
"
20 | Khiva, str.
1,419
W. E. Clement
166
178
"
Port Darwin
5
Cooktown
1
13
27 Menmuir, str.
1,247
P. T. Helms
30
Sydney
21
Melbourne
3
21
23
25
HR22 2272 * *88
14
""
28 Sarpedon, str.
1,592
II. Chrimes
י
Straits Settlements
189
159
15
""
30
Wing Sang, str. .....
1,517
d'A de Ste. Croix
113
119
•
16
30
""
Medusa, str..
1,776 Austro-Hung. R. Deperis
295
4.
345
"
17
30
San Pablo, str..
18 February 3
Venice, str.
19
20
""
18 Sumatra, str.
13 Glenartney, str.
13 City of Sydney, str.
2,113 American
1,271 British
1,400
""
1,966 American 1,400 British
E. C. Reed
San Francisco
52
J. B. Peters
Straits Settlements
29
::
53
29
D. O. Mackinlay D. E. Friele
153
159
27
San Francisco
45
45
77
18 Falamed, str.
1,536
W. D. Worcester C. Jackson
Straits Settlements
198
207
ادارة
50
17
Port Darwin
20
>>
20 Whampoa, str.
1,109
J. E. Williams
25
12
Brisbane
5
24
"2
23 Oceanic, str..
2,440
J. Metcalfe
San Francisco
195
201
""
"
26
Arratoon Apcar, str.
1,392
A. B. Mactavish
""
Straits Settlements
622
657
20
""
27
Kasligar, str.
1,515
23
F. Speck
352
359
21
گی
Brisbane
27
27 Suez, str.
1,388
W. M. Dodd
""
Sydney
18
26
Melbourne
Straits Settlements
155
Port Darwin
51
28 March
2 Guthrie, str.
1,493
S. G. Green
Cooktown
251
"
Townsville
Sydney
23
Melbourne
7
885888.
29
"2
2 Thames, str.
30
99
2 Elektra, str.
2,131
· 2,095 |Austro-Hung. G. Ragusin
W. A. Seaton
Straits Settlements
90
367
11
19
""
4
City of Rio de Janeiro, str.
2,275 American
W. B. Cobb
San Francisco
168!
ان
32
4 Tai Sang, str.
1,505 British
33
"3
5
Kennett, str.
1,156
3-4
""
8 Telemachus, str.
1,412
T. L. Davies J. T. Sanderson H. Joues
Straits Settlements
289
16
653
13
11 10 10
90
382
178
4.
311
350
:
35
13 Gaelic, str.
2,691
W. G. Pearne
San Francisco
212
31
ଦା କା
670
350
215
Port Darwin
32
36
"
13 Tannadice, str.
1,408
W. McArthur
Cooktown Townsville
1
65
Sydney
26
Melbourne
37
41
* ******
"
16 Pandora, str.
38
16 Peshawur, str.
1,781 Austro-Hung. G. Mettel 2,130 British
Straits Settlements
691
13
10
L. H. Moule
213
:
39
17 Japan, str....
40
""
22 Parthia, str....
1,865 2,035
">
"
22
23 City of New York, str.
42
""
25 Glengarry, str..
1,964 American 1,956 British
T. S. Gardner A. Marshall R. R. Searle A. Taylor
""
27
822
29
3
1,317
18
12
San Francisco
312
Straits Settlements
416
14
237
5901
43
27 Woosung, str.
1,109
J. D. C. Arthur
"
Sydney
12
717
213
860
1,347
326 441
602
Straits Settlements
518
23
う
Port Darwin
54
Thursday Island
Cooktown
44
་
29 Afghan, str.
1,439
G. Roy
}
Townsville
13
651
Rockhampton ·
31
Sydney
23
Melbourne
4
45
30 Clyde, str....
2,244
E. M. Edmond
Straits Settlements
224
224
46
""
31 Wing Sang, str.
1,517
d'A de Ste. Croix
287
29
16
""
47 April
3 Poseidon, str.
2,510 Austro-Hung. G. Doncich
653
39
16
>>
99
0
337
712
48
3 Belgic, str.
2,695 British
W. H. Walker
San Francisco
223
226
49
8 Glenearn, str,
1,410
E. F. Park
Straits Settlements
2
574
15
593
50
29
8 Khiva, str.
1,419
51
""
8 Cyclops, str.
1,403
52
12 Picciola, str...
53
13 Hydaspes, str.
875 German 1,891 British
S. Bason
་
218
14
240
H. Nish
99
99
G. P. M. T. Nissen
Bangkok
137
142
G. Scrivener
Straits Settlements
189
189
Carried forward,..
88,311
1
Carried forward,......| 15,792||
500
155
86 16,533
RETURN of CHINESE PASSENGER SHIPS cleared by the Emigration Officer, Hongkong,-(Continued).
383
No.
DATE CLEARED.
SHIP'S NAME.
TONS.
NATION- ALITY OF SHIP.
ADULTS.
CHILDREN.
MASTER'S NAME.
WHITHER BOUND.
TOTAL.
M.
F. M. F.
64 April 13
55
14
Brought forward....... Arration Apcar, str. City of Peking, str.
88,311
Brought forward, |15,192
500 155 86
16,593
1,392 British 3,129 American
A. B. Mactavish H. C. Dearborn
Straits Settlements
446
43
18
515
San Francisco
313
7
326
Singapore
249
Port Darwin
23
Cooktown
1
56
15 Airlie, str.
1,492 British
W. Ellis
Townsville Brisbane Sydney Melbourne
321
24
5888
57
16 Sumatra, str.
1,406
W. D. Worcester
Straits Settlements
668
وو
17 Berenice, str.
59
21 Gilsland, str.
1,707 Austro-Hung. G. B. Verona 1,058 British
530
27
2959
aã
"2
27
L. H. D'Egville
Bangkok
60
22 Thames, str.....
2,131
W. A. Seaton
Straits Settlements Port Darwin Cooktown
703
567
27
213
61
24 Taiwan, str.
1,109
>
T. H. Clegg
Townsville
Brisbane Sydney
100
13
Melbourne
7
228 8 983233
62
24 San Pablo, str.......
63
24 Tai Sang, str.
2,113 American 1,505 British
E. C. Reed
San Francisco
378
7
387
T. J. Davies
Straits Settlements
764
30
16
818
64
28 Venetia, str...
1,609
W. E. Clement
379
13
22
417
23
""
65
29 Achilles, str..
>>
66
""
07
May
68
1 Deuteros, str.
30 Ingrahan, str.
1 Amphitrite, str.
894 German
C. Anderson
J. R. Massmann
2,486 Austro-Hung. B. Geleich
1,193 German
1,550.
200
""
وو
...
200
451
11
3
465
11
485
70
15
10
580
35
A. E. Luthjens
Singapore
138
8
1
285
Mauritius
129
69
4
Japan, str.
1,865 British
T. S. Gardner
Straits Settlements
406
17
435
70
5
City of Sydney, str.
25
71
6
Ancona, str.
و
1,966 | American 1,874 British
D. E. Friele S. F. Cole
San Francisco
314
2
317
Straits Settlements
187
:
187
Port Darwin
28
Thursday Island
1
Cooktown
6
72
Catterthun, str.
Townsville
7
1,406
J. W. B. Darke
72
Rockhampton Brisbane
Sydney
20
Melbourne
75
76
77
PIRKK
73
10 Ferntower, str..
23
74
12
Zambesi, str.
700 1,540
J. J. Kelley
Straits Settlements
427
12
443
F. Cole
780
13
801
"
""
"
15
Oceanic, str.
"
2,440
21
J. A. Thompson
San Francisco
807
18
834
15
Vorwaerts, str....
""
1,574 Austro-Hung.] P. P. Andrianic
Straits Settlements
317
70
401
15
Wing Sang, str.
1,517 British
d'A. de Ste. Croix
542
23
570
*J
"
Port Darwin
Thursday Island
Cooktown
78
15 Galveston, str.
Townsville.
1,301
W. Chater
51
22
79
>>
80
"
20 Pekin, str.
.81
ལྟ
82
83
""
.90
CBBBBB183
84
""
85
"
28 Arratoon Apcar, str.
86 June
19 Telamon, str.
22 Whampoa, str....
25 City of Rio de Janeiro, str.
26 Adowa, str.
27 | Hector, str.
2 Titania, str.
2,275 American 1,112 British
W. B. Cobb
1,555 2,125
"}
M. H. F. Jackson Straits Settlements A. Symons
1,109
A. Hunt
Rockhampton Brisbane Sydney Melbourne
Dilly, Timor Sydney
17
8)
490
38
546
212
212
29
60
120
Melbourne
28
San Francisco
475
W. F. Caborne
Straits Settlements
599
37
1,590
""
1,392
II. E. Batt
211
A. B. Mactavish
408
وو
""
87
3 Gaelic, str.
2,011 |Austro-Hung. S. Mersa 2,691 | British
449 66
22
W. G. Pearne
""
88
>"
5 Kashgar, str.
1,515
C. Gadd
San Francisco Straits Settlements
399
150
22
89
""
7 Singapore, str...
2,367 Italian
G. Parodi
249
""
7 St. Petersburg, str.
1,885 Russian
R. Stronsky
259
27
*** *80**~
3
:
480
18
662
211
95
9
10
522
14'
'536
16
420
13
178
3
253
294
""
91
"J
9 Protos, str.
1,093 German
C. Sorensen
Bangkok
49
51
92
11
Egean, str.
750 British
T. Thomas
Straits Settlements
247
255
93
دو
دو
12
Tai Sang, str.
94
16
Orion, str.
1,505
1,833 Austro-Hung. P. Mersa
T. L. Davies.
171
49
226
478
47
10
546
"
Sydney
135
Melbourne
401
Dunedin, N.Z.
71
*95
17 McBeth, str..
622 British
J. S. Wood
Auckland, N.Z.
271
Greymouth, N.Z.
3853
35
96
18 | Khiva, str.
97
19 Diomed, str.
1,419 1,471
""
98
"
19 Soochow, str.
999
99
**
22 Belgie, str.
100
**
22 Japan, str.
101
28 Tolani, str.
2,695 1,865 981
""
1 Sarpedon, str.
ور
102 July
103
2 Medusa, str.
3 City of Peking, str.
3 Wing Sang, str.
104
;>
105
77
106
5 Parthia, str.
Carried forward,,
1,592
P. W. Case
W. B. Bigley
J. B. Harris
W. II. Walker
Nelson, N.Z. Wellington, N.Z. Straits Settlements
>>
Port Darwin Sydney
Melbourne
301
318
146
140
91
155
49
Adelaide
10
San Francisco
5851
12
602
Straits Settlements.
555
38
10
612
166
166
"
258
10
272
25
457
50
10
15
532
H. C. Dearborn
San Francisco
592
33
10
64.2
d'A de Ste. Croix A. Marshall
Straits Settlements
440
46
10
505
229
11
1
242
99
>>
Carried forward,
34,341 1,515 430 257 36,543
T. S. Gardner E. Allason H. Chrimes
1,776 Austro-Hung. E. Perini 3,129 American
1.517 British 2,035
176,182
وو
384
RETURN of CHINESE PASSENGER SHIPS cleared by the Emigration Officer, Hongkong,—( Continued).
No.
DATE CLEARED.
SHIP'S NAME.
TONS.
NATION- ALITY OF SHIP.
ADULTS.
CHILDREN.
MASTER'S NAME.
WHITHER BOUND.
TOLAL.
M.
F.
M.
F.
Brought forward,........... 176,182
Brought forward, 34,341 1,515
430 2571 36,543
107
July
7 Orestes, str.
1,323 British
108
""
7 Nurjahan, str.
1,936
109
12
2
Camorta, str.
1,355
J. Hutchinson P. S. Budd J. G. Trewin
Straits Settlements
130
:
:
130
279
25
"
184
رو
Port Darwin
18
372
311
193
110
"
12. Taiwan, str.
1,109
"
T. H. Clegg
Sydney
41
125
Melbourne
61
Adelaide
Port Darwin
Cooktown
4
Townsville
12
111
·13 | Afghan, str.
1,439
""
G. Roy
58
Brisbane
12
Sydney
15
Melbourne
9
112
13 San Pablo, str...
2,113 American
E. C. Reed
San Francisco
241
10
257
113
وو
13 Zambesi, str...
1,540 British
F. Cole
Straits Settlements
257
114
14
23
Protos, str.
1,093 German
. C. Sorensen
Bangkok
34
115
15
Elektra, str.
2,095 Austro-Hung. G. Ragusin
Straits Settlements.
123
58
15
12
285
34
89
12
18
242
116
16
Glenroy, str..
1,411 British
W. J. Geake
141
141
""
...
117
""
16 Rochampton, str..
1,391
R. Sanderson
61
61
""
118
33
17
Ulysses, str.
1,301
119
20
دو
Arratoon Apear, str.
1.392
A. W. Bremner A. B. Mactavish
130
130
""
158
46
10
وو
22
222
120-
""
22 Bormida, str.
121
122
39
123
30
24 Glencoe, str...
24 City of Sydney, str.
Tai Sang, str.
124 August 3 Iolani, str.
1,499 Italian 1,901
British
E. Pizzarello W. E. Duke
287
32
332
29
336
10
371
1,966 | American 1,505 British
D. E. Friele
San Francisco
213
218
T. L. Davies
Straits Settlements
355
68
16
18
457
Sydney
80
Melbourne
123
Adelaide
.......
981
E. Allasou
217
>>
Launceston
Wellington
Auckland
125. 126
""
5
Kashgar, str.
""
6
Manilla, str.
127
7
Glenfruin, str.
128
10
City of Rio de Janeiro, str..
1,515 2,585 Italian 1,936 British 2,275 American
C. Gadd
""
Straits Settlements
208
10
244
A. Cruciani E. Norman
116
53
7
13
189
93
93
23
W. B Cobb
San Francisco
377
3
384
129
13
Japan, str.
1,865 British
T. S. Gardner
Straits Settlements
216
40
9
6
271
130
14
Poseidon, str.
131
14
Telemachus, str.
1,421 British
132
17
""
Pandora, str.
2,510 Austro-Hung. G. Doncich
1,781 Austro-Hung. T. Radonicich
137
77
17
240
H. Jones
80)
:
80
01
201
119
23
133
17
">
Suez, str.
1,388 British
J. Anderson
179
17
203
12
Port Darwin
:
Thursday Island
Cooktown
134
"2
18 Sikh, str.
1,610
22
A. Scotland
Townsville
43
Brisbaue Sydney Melbourne
:
.135 136
"
24
Gaelic, str.
23
24
Wingsang, str.....
137
>
25
Deccan, str.
2,691 1,517 2,022
W. G. Pearne
San Francisco
418
"
d'A. de Ste. Croix
Straits Settlements
378
17.
10
>
*
138
Sept.
2
City of New York, str.
1,964 American
.139
"
2 Berenice, str.
140
""
2 Arratoon Apcar, str.
1,707 | Austrian 1,392 British
P. W. Case R. R. Searle C. Bechtinger- A. B. Mactavish
292
32
San Francisco
121
Straits Settlements
395
51
406
31
6209
සපය
3
430
434
3
333
:
124
459
3
449
J
141
**
2 Soochow, str.
999
J. B. Harris
Sydney Melbourne
82
77
171
Adelaide
12
Port Darwin
19
Thursday Island
1
Cooktown
16
142
4 Guthrie, str...
1,493
N. Shannon
Townsville
74
Brisbane Sydney Melbourne
23
143 144
""
•
6 Cyclops, str.
1,403
>>
11 Zambesi, str..
1,540
H. Nish F. Cole
Straits Settlements
140
140
605
"
""
278
255
24
14
647
37
Port Darwin
23
Cooktown
145
>>
13 Northern, str.
1,462
W. Richardson
Townsville
Brisbane
Sydney
Melbourne
Adelaide
146
14
""
Belgic, str.
2,695
W. H. Walker
"
147
""
14
Tai Sang, str.
1,505
T. L. Davies
San Francisco Straits Settlements
2621
205
148
15
31
Bormida, str.
1,499 Italian
149
"".
16 Khiva, str.
150
17
Thisbe, str.
1,419 British
1,848 Austro-Hung. A. Ballovich
E. Pizzarello S. Bason
133
141
:
༧ ༢
::
189
51
151
39
23
City of Peking, str.
3,129 American
H. C. Dearborn
San Francisco
215
152
23
Prometheus, str.
1,538 British
153
"J
27 Achilles, str..
1,529
J. K. Webster C. Anderson
Straits Settlements
402
26
وو
257
Port Darwin
G
154
27 Taiwan, str.
1,109
T. H. Clegg
Sydney
18
Melbourne
23
155.
"
29 Japan, str.
1,865
"
156
"
30 Glengarry, str.
1,956
27
T. S. Gardner A. Taylor
Straits Settlements
398
39
288
28
*;
Carried forward,..............| 260,600
3515
395
266
240
134
141
259
233
436
257
47
11
457
323
Carried forward,.
45,080 2,405
659
438
48,642
RETURN of CHINESE PASSENGER SHIPS cleared by the Emigration Officer, Hongkong,-(Continued).
CHILDREN.
385
No.
DATE CLEARED.
SHIP'S NAMF.
TONS.
NATION-
ALITY OF SHIP.
ADULTS.
MASTER'S NAME.
WHITHER BOUND.
TOTAL.
M.
F. M.
F.
Brought forward,..
260,600
|Brought forward,..... 45,080| 2,465
659 438 483,642
Straits Settlements
221
18
CH
Port Darwin
10
157 Sept. 30 Menmuir, str.
1,247 British
Cooktown
4
P. T. Helms
286
Townsville Brisbane Sydney
10
1
16
158 Oct. 169 160
2 San Pablo, str..
""
2 Torwarts, str.
6 Hector, str.
2,113 American 1,574 Austrian 1,590 | British
E. C. Reed F. Radonicich H. Batt
San Francisco
140
]
.149
Straits Settlements
308
74
16
405
110)
110
Port Darwin
12
161
22
7
Pathan, str.
1,762
J. Rowley
Sydney
32
88
Melbourne
42
162
""
7
Raffaele Rubbatino, str.
3,044 Italian
G. Merells
Straits Settlements
455
27
200
492
163
""
11
Antenor, str.
1,645 British
T. W. Freeman
212
212
"
164
""
12
City of Sydney, str.
165
14
Wing Sang, str.
1,966 American 1,517 British
D. E. Friele
San Francisco
95
́d'A. de Ste, Croix | Straits Settlements
559
45
166
16
Anjer Head, str.
1,300
W. Macey
274
17
24
667
101
12
7
623
296
"
167
18
""
McBeth, str...
622
J. S. Wood
323
:
323
21
23
168
"
21
Oreanic, str.
2,440
J. A. Thompson
San Francisco
153
169
170
22
21
Glenorchy, str..
1,822
>>
F. Gedye
Straits Settlements
163
54
141
27
22
Decima, str..
965 German
P.
Oestmann {
Singapore
62
Mauritius
114
171
""
23
Amphitrite, str.
172
22
23
Arratoon Apear, str.
173
26
Ravenna, str.
""
174❘ Nov.
Titan, str..
2,486 | Austrian 1,392 British 2,035 1,554
B. Gelcich
A. B. Mactavish A. B. Daniell
Straits Settlements
260
257
14
203
:
:
164
181
184
322
274
203
:
R. J. Brown
195
198
,,
175
2
City of Rio de Janeiro, str..
2,275 American
W. B. Cobb
San Francisco
88
94
176
2 Orion, str.
1,833 Austrian
G. Maltiazzi
Straits Settlements
358
443
177
2 Tai Sang, str.
178
3 Glenfiulas, str..
1,505 | British 1,409
T. L. Davies
483
5
>>
A. J. Jacobs
128
537 195
J
>>
Port Darwin
5
Cooktown
7
Townsville
179
وو
6 Afghan, str.
1,439
G. Roy
44
Brisbane
Sydney
16
Melbourne
6
180 181
6 Agamemnon, str.
1,523
"
9 Verona, str.
1,862
* A
J. Wilding
Straits Settlements
247
M. De Horne
186
Port Darwin
A
182
183
184
""
185
""
186
187
188
23
189
23 Glenearn, str.
190
24 | Cathay, str.
11 Whampoa, str.
1,109
>>
A. Hunt
Sydney
63
Melbourne
63
1
12 Japan, str.
13 Gaelic, str.
13 Medusa, str..
17 Lombardy, str..
18 Bormida, str.
City of New York, str.
1,964 American
1,865 2,691
1,776 Austrian
T. S. Gardner W. G. Pearne E. Perini
Straits Settlements
345
20
San Francisco
210
15
Straits Settlements
427
93!
1,571 British
1,499 Italian
1,410 | British
1,884
W. J. Webber E. Fizzarello R. R. Searle B. Quartly
264
19
""
152
""
San Francisco
65
Straits Settlements
392
45
11
WICOWENCON
E. Ashdown
186
:
:
:
248
186
1837
2
370
233
16
566
200.
182
71
453
186
Singapore
140
6
Port Darwin
3
Thursday Island Townsville
3
191
26 Catterthun, str.
1,406
J. W. B. Darke
194
Rockhampton
Brisbane
Sydney
Melbourne
192 Dec.
2 Belgic. str.
2,695
W. H. Walker
San Francisco
122
193
""
2 Titania, str.
2,011 Austrian
194
2 Wing Sang, str.
1,517 British
S. Mersa d'A. de St. Croix
Straits Settlements
524
106
466
2893
20
11
40
33
Port Darwin
Cooktown
1
Townsville
3
195
"3
2 Rochampton, str..
1,391
R. Sanderson
Brisbane
1
Sydney
15
Melbourne
10.
196 197
7 Rohilla, str.
7 Sarpedon, str.
198
""
10 Khiva, str.
199
13 City of Peking, str.
200
13 Orestes, str.
201
15 | Changsha, str.
202
16 Gleneagles, str.
203
""
204
17
"
205
206
21
Hydaspes, str.
207
21
""
St. Petersburg, str......
208
""
23
Domenico Balduino, str.
209
23
""
Tai Sang, str.
210
30
City of Sydney, str..
211
>>
30
Glenavon, str.
16 Elektra, str.
Arratoon Apear, str. San Pablo, str..
2,252 1,592 1,419 3,129 American 1,323 British
1,463
1,838
2.095 Austrian 1,392 British 2,113 American 1,891 British 1,885 Russian 3,044 Italian
1,505 British 1,966 American 1,936 British
E. F. Park G. Ragusin A. B. Mactavish E. C. Reed G. Scrivener R. Stronsky G. Dodero T. L. Davies
W. Barratt
Straits Settlements
223
"
""
H. Chrimes S. Bason
285
25
72
677
37
21
22
322
220
366
16
16
148
657
520
52
223
316
725
H. C. Dearborn J. W. Hutchinson
San Francisco
129
144
Straits Settlements Port Darwin
210
212
13
J. E. Williams
Sydney
80
255
Melbourne Straits Settlements
162
221
231
511
وو
333
33.
97
20
12
640
66
12
11
422
"
San Francisco
94
95
Straits Settlements
189
189
375
18
394
27
420
12
2
435
22
190
18
216
D. E. Friele
San Francisco
90
7
99
K. J. Gasson
Straits Settlements
863
50
18
6
937
TOTAL TONS,
359,152
TOTAL PASSENGERS,.
59,4263,608 884 604
64,522
386
RETURN of CHINESE PASSENGER SHIPS cleared by the Emigration Officer, Hongkong,—( Continued).
To Adelaide, South Australia,
,, Auckland, New Zealand,
,, Bangkok, Siam,
,, Brisbane, Queensland,
"3
Cooktown,
Do.,
"
Dily, Timor,
31
Dunedin, New Zealand,
,, Greymouth,
Launceston,
Do.,
Do.,
,, Mauritius,
Melbourne,..
,; Nelson, New Zealand,
"
Port Darwin, South Australia,
Rockhampton, Queensland,.....
وو
San Francisco, U.S.A.,.............
"
Straits Settlements,
"3
Sydney,
31
وو
Thursday Island, Queensland,....
Townsville, Queensland,.
,, Wellington, New Zealand,
SUMMARY.
ADULTS.
CHILDREN.
TOTAL.
M.
F.
M.
F.
29
9
247
58
63
Q
29
9
254
58.
63
29
71
9
71
9
4
243
17
260
787
796
6
14
10
470
8
8,233) 238
48,010 3,360
77
50 8,598
772
549 52,091
9431
944
12
12
206
206
:
:
5
TOTAL PASSENGERS,
59,426 3,608)
884: 604
64,522
:
+
XX. RETURN of VESSELS bringing CHINESE PASSENGERS to the Port of Victoria, Hongkong, from Places out of the Chinese Empire, during the Year ending the 31st day of December, 1886.
387
No.
DATE ARRIVED.
SHIP'S NAME.
TONS.
NATION-
ALITY OF SHIP.
ADULTS.
CHILDREN.
MASTER'S NAME.
WHERE FROM.
TOTAL.
M.
F. M. F.
1 January 2| Mosser, str.
1,326 British
Titzek
Straits Settlements
101
**
2 Cheang Hock Kian, str..
955
Webb
2951-
+5
3
105 305
:>
"
**
4
Tai Sang, str.
1,505
.་
4
Kong Beng, str....
862
Davies Jones
480
20
500
92
Bangkok
25
2
27
"
4
Arratoon Apcar, str.
1,392
Mactavish
Straits Settlements
250
250
4 Bellerophon. str.
1.397
Freeman
38
ลง
2
40
་་
""
"
4
Martha Davis..
**
5
Ingraban, str.
833 American $94 German
Benson
Honolulu
235 10
8
2
255
Massmann
Straits Settlements
324 6
330
1
9
10
17
8
Ascalon, str.
19
8
City of Peking, str.
11
9
Khiva. str.
1.523 British
3,129 American 1,419 British
Harris
67
67
>>
4
Dearborn
San Francisco
550
11
7
5
573
Clements
Straits Settlements
117
3
120
12
11
Ganges, str.
2,162
Stewart
93
93
""
1)
13
11 Sarpedon, str.
1,592
Chrimes
"
**
210 11
14
.་
11 Mongkut, str.
859
15
14 Camelot, str.
1,049
"
16
"
15 Palamed, str.
1,536
Loff Daily Jackson
Bangkok
101
Straits Settlements
327
238
1446
221
105
to
338
244
་་
Port Darwin
10
Cooktown
17
17
15 Menmuir, str..
1,247
Helms
Townsville Brisbane
35
214
32
Sydney
79
Melbourne
41
19
21
23
31
2222222R 8 N**O/28+880
18
16 Nepaul, str..
1,988
Alderton
Straits Settlements
107
,,
!!
18 Glaucus, str.
1,382
Hannah
234
""
20
11
19
12
24
"
25
**
26
.་
27
99
22
29
30
23 Venice, str.
""
26 Bangalore, str.
18 Taichiow, str.
19 Oopack, str...
19 Glenfinlas. str. 19 Southern Chief
19 San Pablo, str.
20 | Phra Cho Klao, str.
21 Carisbrooke, str.................
Orestes, str..
22 Medusa, str.
23 Glucksburg, str.
1,323
1,775 Austrian
916 German 1,271 British
Peters Bason
862
Newton
Bangkok
50
"
1,730
Jacques
Straits Settlements
321
co co co
1,409
Jacobs
350
"
""
1,220 American
Ross
Honolulu
380
2,113
Reid
San Francisco
381
1,012 British
Stratton
Bangkok
93
Co
Straits Settlements
136
973
Cass
"
Mauritius
341
Hutchinson
Straits Settlements
197
Decheris
423
20
";
Bertelsen
305
!!
288
2262
>>
32
:9
27 Wing Sang, str.
33
";
28 Stentor, str..............
1,309 1,517 1,307
125
11
>
Ste. Croix
471
"
11
Edwards
130
>>
00.631
34
19
28 | Phra Chula Chom Klao, s.
1,012
Lightwood
Bangkok
81
"
35
**
29 Thames, str.
2.131
Seaton
Straits Settlements
180
36
37
Feb.
1
Priam. str.
38
1
39
19
3 Benarty, str.
40
"
30 City of Sydney, str.
Mark Lane, str.
6 Telemachus, str.
1,965 American
Friele
San Francisco
274
1,402 British
Butler
Straits Settlements
SO
1,354
Porter
117
1
"
1,119
Le Boutellier
46
1
་
??
41
6 Ingraban, str..
42
8 Glenearn, str.
1,410 British
1.421
895 German
Parkes
Jones
60
3
""
Massmanu
150
""
⠀
:
861
"
43
5.
8 Cheang Hock Kian, str.
956
Webb
226
"
**
44
"
8 Oceanic, str.
2,440
Metcalfe
!!
45
10 Ulysses, str.....
•1.300
Bremner
46
15 Anchises, str.
1,304
Lapage
47
"
15 Whampoa, str..
1,109
Williams
48
"
17 Kashgar, str.
1,515
Speck
San Francisco Straits Settlements
Australian Ports Straits Settlements
197
115
118
127
108
213 ON ON H∞
:
3
107
240
53
2
329
350
380
381.
99
.:
170
202
446
316
296
125.
2
485
133
82
180.
274
80
118
47
63
150
88
3
238
203
118
120
128
111
Batavia
1
Cooktown
23
49
"
17 Guthrie, str.
1,493
Green
Townsville
Brisbane
Sydney
13
15
130
56
Adelaide
5
Melbourne
17
52
REEBO
50
"
22 Arratoon Apcar, str.
1,392
Mactavish
Straits Settlements
450
"
22 Jason. str.
1,411
:)
23 Deucalion, str.
1,374
23 City of Rio de Janeiro, str.
2,275. American
24 Elektra, str.
55
25 Clyde, str.
2,095 Austrian
2,244 British
Milligan Asquith Cobb Ragusin Edmonds
244
9$
San Francisco
851
Straits Settlements
364
co
42
450
247
100
85
2
4
376
42
Port Darwin
12
Thursday Island
Townsville
56
་
25 Tannadice, str.
1,408
McArthur
Brisbane
86
Newcastle
Sydney
42
Melbourne
13
57
";
26 Glengarry, str.
1,956
Taylor
Straits Settlements
150
150
58
26 Tai Sang, str.
1,506
Davies
481
12
502
??
59 March 1 Amigo, str.
771 German
Thiesen
271
1
273
>>
60
"
4 Menelaus, str.
1.300 British
Nelson
350 15
365
61
4 Formosa, str.
674
Ashton
380 16
396
"
62
4 Zambesi, str.
1.540
Cole
340 14
354
63
5 Gaelic, str.
2,691
64
8 Mongkut, str.
859
Pearne Loff
San Francisco
330
335
"
Bangkok
160
162
65
Japan, str.
1,865
Gardner
Straits Settlements
554
504
??
66
9 Atholl, str.
923
Coulter
376
9
""
67
9 Glucksburg, str.
916 German
Bertelsen
2991
53
390
307
19
68
69
70
"
11 Hydaspes, str..
12 Pandora, str.
13 Glenroy, str.
1,891 British
Scrivener
74
74
ཝཱ
:
11 Glamorganshire, str.
1,843
Davies
288
10
1,781 Austrian
Meltell
156
10
сл н
4
304
171
1,411 British
Geake
197
3.
200
#
15 City of New York, str.
1,964 American
Searle
San Francisco
180
180
Carried forward.................
104,703
Carried forward...........
15,739 290 68
35
16,132
388
RETURN of VESSELS bringing CHINESE PASSENGERS to the Port of Victoria, Hongkong,-(Continued).
No.
DATE ARRIVED,
SHIP'S NAME.
TONS.
NATION- ALITY OF SHIP.
ADULTS.
CHILDREN.
MASTER'S NAME.
WHERE FROM.
TOTAL.
M.
F.
M. F.
Brought forward..
104,703
73
March 15
Venetia, str.
74
15
Ingraban, str.
75
15
Borneo, str.
1,609 British
894 German 1,434 Dutch
Clement Massmann
Brought forward... 15,739 Straits Settlements
290
68
35
16,132
78
80
387
3
400
Swart
60
60
76
15 Cyclops, str.
1,403 British
Nish
320
329
77
78
79
*:*
80
""
18 Laertes, str..
19 Benledi, str.
20 Patroclus, str.
22 Woosung. str.
1,391 1,000 1,386. 1,109
Scale
J
218
231
"
>>
Farquhar
156
160
"
Thompson
;
*
126
.130
Arthur
Australian Ports
61
""
64
81
""
22 Polyhymnia, str..
1,053 German
Bochme
Straits Settlements
86
90
82
!>
23 Ningchow, str.
1,735 British
Castle
135 10
3
2
150
83
84
86
87
88
89
"
23 Belgic, str.
2,695
Walker
وو.
23 Kong Beng, str.
862
Jones
""
San Francisco Bangkok
977 13
990
37
4
"
24 Cheang Hock Kian, str.
956
Webb
Straits Settlements
537 18
>>
24 Wing Sang, str.
"5
24 Prometheus, str.
"9
26
Deccan, str..
""
27 Yorkshire, str.
90
""
91
11
93
94
92 April
29 Poseidon, str.
31 | Phra Chula Chom Klao, s.
2 Pembrokeshire, str.
2 Khiva, str.
2,510 Austrian
1,012 British
Ste. Croix
Webster
Haselwood Arnold
1,517
::
444 30
772
5
ON LO CH
2
.50
5
565
480
1,538
165 5
""
170
2,022
"
25
";
25
1,425
114
""
6
25
120
Doncich
502
10
9
7
528
Lightwood
Bangkok
37
3
40
1,716
>>
1,419
"
Wilkins
Straits Settlements
221
4
5
235
Bason
183
4
3
City of Peking, str.
3,129 American
Dearborn
San Francisco
1,177
32
20
Swo
3
190
19
1,248
95
*96
97
93
:)
5
Mount Lebanon
530
Nelson
Honolulu
79
79
"?
5
Nanshan, str.
805 British
Blackburn
Bangkok
31
""
5
Ghazee, str.
5
Nestor, str.
1,764 1,269
3.3
Bailey
Straits Settlements
160
:>
Thompson
92
194
32
6
2
24
2
170
19
4
100
99
12
5
Arratoon Apcar, str.
1,392
Mactavish
100
33.
Amigo, str.
771 German
Thiesen
270 386
:
270
...
""
101
"
6 Gleneagles, str.
1,837 British
Gasson
366
102
!)
6 Vortigern, str...
876
Brown
"9
Bangkok
90
E B M
400
3
3
380
3
97
Port Darwin'
13
Thursday Island
2
Cooktown
7
103
""
7 Airlie, str..
1,492
Ellis
Townsville
18
143
Brisbane
56
Sydney
43
Melbourne
4
104
105
"
8
Ancona, str....
1,877
Cole
Straits Settlements
40
40
"
8
Achilles, str.
1,528
Anderson
195
13
217
106
""
9
San Pablo, str.
2,113 American
Reed
San Francisco
483
483
107
"
10 Sumatra, str.
1,406 British
Worcester
Straits Settlements
1901
3
197
108
">
12 | Phra Chom Klao, str.
1,012
11
Stratton
Bangkok
26
27
109
19
12 Catterthun, str.
1,406
Darke
19
Australian Ports
112
112
110
""
13.
Berenice, str.
1,707 Austrian
Verona
Straits Settlements
316
40
16
406
111
"
13
Lorne, str.
1,035 British
Hunter
184
4
200
"
112
14
Tai Sang, str.
1,505
Davies
212 10
222
"
113
99
16,
Duburg, str.
921 German
Bertelsen
157
**
161
114
32
17
Glenavon, str....
1,995 British
Donaldson
221
2
234
""
115
"
17
Kaisow, str..
1,934
Thomson
70
70
"?
116
19
19
Ajax, str...
1,524
Riley
177
""
117
17
20
Venice, str.
1,271
Peters
173
పాలు
180
1
3
爷爷
183
118
""
21 Pekin. str.
2,125
Symons
70
70
**
119
21 Parthia, str..........
2.035
Marshall
250
15
*
120
97
22 Cheang Hock Kian, str..
956
Webb
247 14
121
""
24 Amphitrite, str.
2,486 Austrian
Gelcich
428
100
122
""
24 Teheran, str.
123
99.
27 Denbighshire, str.
124
27 Oxfordshire, str..
125
""
27 Japan, str.
998 1,865
126
27 Lord of the Isles, str.
.1,586
";
127
"
27 Gleneagles, str.
2,000
128
27 City of Sydney, str.
129
**
28 Whampoa, str.
1,679 British
1,663
1,966 American 1,109 British
Seymour Cuming Jones Gardner Felgate
Friele
??
10
270
00 00 10
8
275
3
271
5
543
56
60
多多
82
"
84
120
120
"!
279 10
289
751 3
78
Hogg
130!
9
139
San Francisco
566
17
2
589
Williams
Australian Ports
100
100
130
29 Benlarig, str.
1,481
*
131
29 Antenor, str.
132
29
Atholl, str.
1,376 923
"!
Clark Bragg Coulter
Straits Settlements
80
6
2
90
96
100
!!
129
133
30
Oceanic, str.
2,440
::
Thompson
San Francisco
77
134 May
1 Allie Rowe
135
""
Phra Chula Chom Kłao, s.
1,012 British
136
""
1 Ching Wo, str.
1,556
137
"
1 Titan. str.
1,554
138
"
3
Pearl, str....
706
340 Hawaiian
Brown Munk
Phillips
Honolulu
59
Lightwood
Bangkok
74
McHugh
Straits Settlements
104
6 3
:::
1
132
77
60
C
88
115
200
":
200
!
108
་་
139
4 Hector, str.
1,590
29
140
>>
6 Ravenna, str.
2,035
Batt Daniels
148
2 2
110-
}:
150
38
""
•
38
141
"
6 Hungtingdon, str.
1,464
Carr
130
6
"
142
39
6 Hesperia, str.
143
7 Vorwærts, str..
1,136 German 1,574 Austrian
Christiansen Andrianich
100
"
"
334
20
20
20 10 10
108
139
113
379
Port Darwin
16
Cooktown
10
144
7 Tannadice, str.
1,408 British
Craig
Townsville
91
Brisbane
Sydney
145
7 Picciola, str.
875 German
146
7| Phra Chom Klao, str.
1,012 British
Nissen Stratton
Bangkok
81
86
90
i
147
7 Monmouthshire, str.
1,871
Rickard
步步
Straits Settlements
19
'
27
148
7 Wing Sang, str.
1,517
Ste. Croix
"
194
200
149
"
7 Antonio, str.
1,214
Wallace
28
>>
30
150
19
12 Glencoe, str.
1,901
Duke
*
"
460
20
15
151
13 Telamon, str.
1,555
>
152
14 Westmeath, str.
2,095
Jackson Stonehouse
330
10
••
40
10 10
500
350
29
Ι
30
Curried forward...
223,591
Carried forward.....
31,386 871 264 160 32,681
}
RETURN of VESSELS bringing CHINESE PASSENGERS to the Port of Victoria, Hongkong,-(Continued).
389
No.
DATE ARRIVED.
SHIP'S NAME.
TONS.
NATION- ALITY OF SHIP.
ADULTS.
CHILDREN.
MASTER'S NAME.
WHERE FROM.
TOTAL.
M. F.
M. F.
Brought forward.
223,591
L
153 May
14
Mongkut, str.
859 British
Loff
Brought forward... 31,386 871 Bangkok
264
160
32,681
170
8
178
154
15
Gilsland, str.
1,058
De Egville
45
2
47
17
155
+1
15
City of Rio de Janeiro, str.
2,275 American
Cobb
San Francisco
162
162
156
15 Amigo, str.
771 German
Thiesen
Straits Settlements
392 20
15
2
429
157
18 Adowa, str.
1,111 British
Caborne
2021
15
2
1
220
158
19 James Watt, str.
1,024
Petrie
65
65
**
159
19 Gaelic, str.
2,691
Pearne
San Francisco
107
C
110
#
160
20 Verona, str.
1,862
Horne
Straits Settlements
99
99
161
20 Bellerophon, str.
1,397
Guthrie
340
350
162
20 Electra, str.
"
.1,162 German
Nagel
113
3
130
>
163
"
21 Duburg, str......
164
165
166
167
168
169
"
25 Kashgar, str.
170
";
21 Triumph, str.
21 Hampshire, str.
21
Kong Beng, str.
21 Guthrie, str.
25 Titania, str..
25 Arratoon Apcar, str.
921 674
Bertelsen
279
300
22
>
Schuldt
61
71
>>
1,700 British
Kornish
26
28
>>
862
Jones
Bangkok
54
1,494
Green
Australian Ports
80
2,011 Austrian
Mersa
Straits Settlements
4431
20
30
10
503
1,515 British
Gadd
61
1,392
Mactavish
292
"
>>
171
25 Cheang Hock Kian, str..
956
Webb
130
10
172
173
27 Fidelio, str..
27 Diomed, str..
852 German
Brock
158
2602
63
6
8
Co oo
304
2
150
160
1,471 British
Bigley
148
148
174
"
28 Singapore, str.
2,432 Italian
Parodi
223
175
28
Phra Chula Chom Klao, s.
1,012 British
Lightwood
Bangkok
68
176
29 Clieveden, str...
1,115
Gibb
72
543
5
3
1
232
4
3
75
•
75
•
";
177
29 Khiva, str.
1,419
Case
"7
Straits Settlements
42
42
178
31 Venice, str.
1,271
Peters
282
10
2
300
179
31
Glenfalloch, str.
">
1,419
Webster
131
8
6
145.
>>
180 June
2 Rosetta, str..................
2,136
Brady
61
??
181
2 Palinurus, str......
1,536
Jackson
253
::
61
259
""
22
182
2 | Phra Chom Klao, str.
1,012
Stratton
Bangkok
46
6
3
59
183
3 Pearl, str............
706
Munk
Straits Settlements
111
5
4
120
??
184
19
4 Laju, str.
1,246
Mann
28
2
30
"
""
185
4
Tai Sang, str.
1,506
Davies
288
10
298
95
""
186
11
4
Quarta, str.
773 German
Kock
Bangkok
49
50
187
7 Orion, str.
1,833 Austrian
Mersa
Straits Settlements
350
36
386
188
7
Sarpedon, str.
وو
1,591 British
Chrimes
148 10
6
2
166
"
189
12
7
Woosung, str.
1,109
Arthur
"
Australian Ports
94
94
190
"
7
Sury Wangse, str.
531 German
Malsen
Bangkok
52
1
53
...
191
7 Belgic, str.
2,695 British
Walker
San Francisco
208
208
192
9 Benalder, str.
1,331
Ross
""
Straits Settlements
121
4
130
193
10 Picciola, str.
194 1
""
10 Gordon Castle, str.
875 German 1,320 British
Nissen
145
153
99
Rowell
169
174
""
195
""
12 Mongkut, str.
859
Loff
"
Bangkok
56
57
196
22
15 Euphrates, str.
1,300
Mitchell
Straits Settlements
80
85
**
197
99
15 Rohilla, str.
2,252
Barrett
44
""
"
...
44
198
*
16 Japan, str.
1,865
Gardner
506
31
10
2
549
"
"
199
་་
17 Orestes, str.
1,323
Hutchinson
340
5
345
""
"
200
"
18 Duburg, str.
921 German
Bertelsen
321
10
"
201
!!
18 Kong Beng, str.
862 British
Jones
Bangkok
30
:
84
339
34
202
19 Glaucus, str.
1,382
Hannah
Straits Settlements
170
174
"
22
203
23 Glenlyon, str.
1,410
Somers
312
12
22
"
"
201
"
24 ' Phra Chula Chom Klao, s.
1,012
Lightwood
Bangkok
£3
205
::
25 Wing Sang, str.
1,517
St. Croix
Straits Settlements
::
206
25 Medusa, str.
207
"
26 Ulysses, str...
1,776 Austrian 1,300 British
Pereni
260 30 391
10
17
"
Bremner
139
208
209
»
210
12
211
""
212 213
3.
3 Protos, str.
5 Airlie, str.
214 July
215
28 Glenfruin, str.
28 Independent, str.
28 San Pablo, str.
29 Nurjahan, str.
30 Surat, str.
30 Taiwan, str..
1,936
871 German
2,113 American
Norman
SO
23
"
Hasenwinkel
Bangkok
57 3
Reed
San Francisco
91
1,936 British
Budd
Straits Settlements
120
00 1000 2 T
8
*20290
330
95
:
300
418
150
88
60
93
3
2
2
127
1,677
Murray
104
104
1,109
Clegg
Australian Ports
46
46
1,150 German
Sorensen
Bangkok
214
214
Port Darwin
18
1,492 British
Brisbane
18
Ellis
131
Dunedin, N.Z.
30
Sydney
65
216
"
6 Zambesi, str.
217
"
6 Arratoon Apcar, str.
1,540 1,392
Cole
Straits Settlements
78
2
81
>>
Mactavish
500 15
4
519
39
!!
218
**
7 Elektra, str
219
+
8 Anchises, str.
220
"
9 Deuteros, str.
221
9 Lorne, str.
222
10 Sikh, str.
1,510
""
2,095 Austrian
1,304 British 1,197 German 1,035 British
Lapage Leuthgens Hunter Scotland
Ragusin
664 10
674
""
180
6
204
2
503
11
222
224
190
210
520
1001
10
110
19
223
>>
10 Egean, str.
750
Thomas
146
2
150
72
"
224
J
10 City of Sydney, str.
1,966 American
Friele
San Francisco
106
106
225
12 Venetia, str.
226
13 Stentor, str.
227
**
13 Bormida, str.
228
"
14 Peshawur, str..
1,609 British 1,307
1,489 Italian 2,130 British
Edwards Pizzarello Moule
Worcester
Straits Settlements
78
78
176)
182
""
130
3
139
64
229
14 Nanshan, str.
865
Blackburn
Bangkok
45
::
64
46
230
":
15 Glenartney, str.
1.400
231
**
16 Priam, str.
1.402
232.
"
17 Mongkut, str.
859
233
•
19 Picciola, str.
234
19 Cassandra, str.
235
236
>
237
"
19 Oceanic, str.
238
27
21 Atholl, str.
19 Jason, str.
19 Prinz Georg, str..
**
875 German 1,097 1,412 British 1,906 German
2.440 British
923
Milligan Plett
Thompson Coulter
McKinlay Butler Loff Nissen
Straits Settlements
220
10
235
90
90
Bangkok
110
115
Straits Settlements
83
87
•
Haeslook
134
140
"
115
11
129
*
93 10
103
San Francisco Straits Settlements
150
150
248
239
71
21 Amigo, str.
771 | German
Thiessen
"}
Carried forward................. 343,854
Carried forward...........
3 190 10
45,733 1,363
251
8.
212
484 226
47,806
་་
390
RETURN of VESSELS bringing CHINESE PASSENGERS to the Port of Victoria, Hongkong,-(Continued):
No.
DATE ARRIVED.
SHIP'S NAME.
TONS.
NATION- ALITY OF SHIP.
ADULTS.
CHILDREN.
MASTER'S NAME.
WHERE FROM.
TOTAL.
M. F
M. F
Brought forward
343,854
Brought forward... 45,733 1,363 Townsville
484 226
17,806
36
240 July
Brisbane
30
22 Whampoa, str.
1,159 British
Hunt
Sydney
19
103
Melbourne
17
241 242
"
24 Telemachus, str.
26 Patroclus, str...
1,421 1,386
Jones
Straits Settlements
260! 10
275
,,
"
Thompson
156
4
160
:>
:
243
وو
26 Tai Sang, str.
1,505
Davies
400
10
15
430
17
244
26 Kashgar, str..
1,515
Gadd
120
4
128
245
28 Mirzapore, str.
2,164
Harvey
57
57
246
30 | Phra Chula Chom Klao, s.
1,012
Lightwood
Bangkok
62
62
247
31 Menelaus, str.
1,300
Nelson
Straits Settlements
107
114
248 August 3 Cheang Hock Kian, str.
956
Webb
243 11
10
266
249
*
3
Glamis Castle, str.
1,558
Amy
294
6
300
250
3
Japan, str.
1,865
"
Gardner
490
490
251
"
4
City of Rio de Janeiro, str.
2,275 American
Cobb
San Francisco
164
164
252
5 Deucalion, str.
1,374 British
Asquith
Straits Settlements
132
137
253
19
6
Fidelio, str.
254
وو
6
Gaelic, str.
255
""
7
Poseidon, str.
256
59
Protos, str.
257
99
10
Mongkut, str.
258
12
Pandora, str.
852 German 2,691 British 2.510 Austrian
1,150 German
859 British 1,781 Austrian
Brock
2061
206
Pearne
San Francisco
167
1.72
Doncich
Straits Settlements
430
13
443
Sorensen
Bangkok
108
126
Loff
137
140
Radonicich
Straits Settlements
2301
238
259
33
12
Dardanus, str..
1,536 British
Purdy
160
"
160
260
13
??
Oder, str. ................
261
"
13
Wing Sang, str.
262
"
263
"
264
265
266
"
267
"9
268
16 Cyclops, str.
16 Polyhymnia, str.
16 | Phra Chom Klao, str..
18 Gleneagles, str.
20 | City of New York, str.
21 Laertes, str..................
21 Taichiow, str.
1,891 German 1,517 British 1,403
""
1,053 German
1,012 British * 2,000
1,964 American 1,391 British
Ppeiffer
148
148
St. Croix
87
90
Nish
182
182
Nagel
$5
10
6
101
Walton
Bangkok
48
""
Hogg
Straits Settlements
287
Searle
San Francisco
160
:
:
48
10
300
160
Scale
Straits Settlements
146
· 150
862
>>
Newton
Bangkok
31
34
Port Darwin
11
Townsville
4
269
"}
21 Guthrie, str.
1,494
Shannon
Brisbane
11
101
Sydney
30
Melbourne
45
270
"9
23
Anjer Head, str....
1,300
"
Macey
Straits Settlements
135
10
140
271
99
24
Kaisow, str.......
1,934
Thomson
270
20
6
""
300
272
""
26
Lorne, str.
1,035
Hunter
424 116
"
550
273
""
28 Arratoon Apcar, str.
1,392
Mactavish
320
18
::
338
274
>>
28 Belgic. str.
2,695
Walker
San Francisco
220
220
"
275
"
28 | Phra Chula Chom Klao, s.
1,012
"
Lightwood
Bangkok
62
67
276
Sept.
277
""
278
"
279
33
280
""
281
13
282
12
283
33
284
13
285
6
""
286
,,
287
8 Mongkut, str....
288
1 Hydra,
1 Kong Beng, str.
2 Prometheus, str.
4 Duburg, str....
4 Picciola, str.
4 Flintshire, str.
6 Amigo, str.
6 Tai Sang, str.
6 Zambesi, str.
Achilles, str.
7 City of Peking, str.
10 Neckar, str.....
1,017 British
771 German 1,505 British
1,540 1.528
"
3,129 American
785 German
862 British
Binge Jones
Honolulu
175
3
186
Bangkok
35
A
41
1,538
Webster
Straits Settlements
295
"
300
921 German
Bertelsen
107
"
116
875
Niessen
100
""
**
Doncaster
100
+2
108
23
104
Samuelsen
450
452
??
Davies Cole
4801
10
"
500
214
220
Anderson
55
3
66
Dearborn
San Francisco
271
271
859 British 1,870 German
Loff
Bangkok
56
Hi
60
Baur
Straits Settlements
73
73
289
11 Bormida, str.
290
11 Thisbe, str.
291
13 Khiva, str.
292
13 Ningchow, str.
293
"
13 Massalia, str.
294
,,
14 Hector, str.
295
14 Danube, str.
1.499 Italian 1.848 Austrian 1,419 British 1,735
19
1,262 German 1,590 British
561
Bason
Castle
Petersen
Pizzarello
321
።
333
Ballovich
281
294
70
>
79
165
3
180
75
76
Batt
164
15
9)
179
Anderson
""
Bangkok
641
65
296
14 China, str.
1,093 German
Haye
36
"
38
297
99
15 | Clieveden, str.
1,115 British
Gibb
30
11
35
298
15 Fidelio, str.
852 German
Brock
Straits Settlements
62
63
299
??
15 Cheang Hock Kian, str.
956 British
Webb
324
77
300
25
17 Prinz Alexander, str...
1.911 German
Eckert
335
33
360
"
350
301
:>
18 Antenor, str.
1,376 British
Freeman
390
::
396
302
18 Cambodia, str.
1,969
Wildgoose
30
*
:
30
303
20 Glamorganshire, str.
1,843
""
301
39
23 Ravenna, str.
2,038
305
"
23 Vorwaerts, str.
1,574 Austrian
306
**
23 San Pablo, str. ...
307
""
23 Japan, str.
308
11
25 Glenorchy, str.
1,822
2,113 American
1,865 British
Davies Daniell
Reed Gardner Gedye
157
Q
2
165
441
44
Radonicich
520
21
541
San Francisco
3901
10
400
Straits Settlements
350
350
28
309
27 Palamed, str.
1,536
**
310
28 Benlarig, str.
1,482
Jackson Clarke
478
29
275
30
487
:
34
Thursday Island
Cooktown
Townsville
21
311
*
29 Airlic, str.
1,492
Ellis
Brisbane
42
161
Dunedin, N.Z.
17
Sydney
431
Melbourne
9
312
""
30 Raffaele Rubattino, str....
313
30 Benvenue. str........
314
#:
30 Telamon, str.
315
30 | Phra Chula Chom Klao, S. 316 October 4 | Ching Wo, str.
Carried forward..
3,044 Italian 1,497 British 1,565 1,012
Merello
Straits Settlements
560
574
Thomson
53
55
**
Jackson Lightwood
115
121
Bangkok
60 10
75
1,556
..
McHugh
Straits Settlements
150
10
160
459,503
Carried forward....
60,320 1,862
615 281
63,078
ན་
RETURN of VESSELS bringing CHINESE PASSENGERS to the Port of Victoria, Hongkong,—(Continued).
391
:
No.
DATE ARRIVED.
SHIP'S NAME.
TONS.
NATION- ALITY OF SHIP.
ADULTS.
CHILDREN.
MASTER'S NAME.
WHERE FROM.
TOTAL.
M. F
M. F.
Brought forward..
459,503
317 October 4
City of Sydney, str.
1,966 American
Friele
Brought forward... 60,320 1,862 San Francisco
615 281
63,078
326
12
6
348
318
4
Kong Beng, str.
862 British
Jones
Bangkok
37
...
37
319
5
>>
Glenfinlas, str.
1,409
Jacobs
Straits Settlements
30
30
""
320
?>
Wing Sang, str.
321
322
323
::
6 Picciola, str.
321
"
6 Livingstone..
325
""
7 Angers, str.
326
""
8
Hesperia, str.
327
8
Titan, str.
328
"
8
Mongkut, str.
329
9
Nurnberg, str.
330
"
11
Amigo, str.
331
11 Clara, str.
6 Verona, str..
6 Dupey de Lorne, str..
531 2,077 British
1,136 German 1,554 British
??
858 2,159 German
771 674
Stiffens
1,517 1,865
Ste. Croix
190
5
10
5
200
97
$9
De Horne
100
100
27
**
2,663 French
Comp
190
10
""
875 German
Nissen
273
>>
Honolulu
183
"
Pinkham
Straits Settlements
140
Christiansen
103
"}
Brown
252
"2
Loff
Bangkok
37
OONGK 10 60
200
2 M
:
4
285
188
146
111
1
2
260
40
Berdrow
Straits Settlements
175
175
Samuelsen
18
6
4
2
30
>
""
Christiansen
Bangkok
35
35
332
333
15 Cheang Hock Kian, str.
16 Pembrokeshire, str.
956 British
Webb
Straits Settlements
318
20
16
6
360
1,717
Williams
29
30
17
2)
334
18 Benarty, str.
1,11,9
Le Boultelier
210
10
وو
>>
335
18 Agamemnon, str.
336
18
Atholl, str.
1,522 923
Wilding
155 16
Coulter
225
7
100 TH 00
99
4
3
1012
5
230
176
2
237
337
18 Tannadice, str.
338
19 Amphitrite, str.
339
19 Arratoon Apcar, str.
340
20 Toonan, str...
1,408
2,486 Austrian
1,392 British
1,262 Chinese
Craig
Australian Ports
290
10
Gelcich
Straits Settlements
397
35
Mactavish
250
10
"
Marsden
327
341
21
Moray, str.
1,427 British
Duncan
231
12
PROTE
300
18
10
444
454
275
7
3
337
7
250
342
21
City of Rio de Janeiro, str.
2,275 American
Cobb
San Francisco
503
503
343
22 Taichiow, str.
862 British
Newton
Bangkok
99
6
311
22
Fred. P. Litchfield..
1,042 American
Young
Honolulu
162 6
4
345
25
Tai Sang, str.
1,506 British
Davies
Straits Settlements
480 12
3
346
26 Diomed, str.
1,471
Bigley
138
2
2
"
347
27
Orion, str.
1,833 Austrian
Matiazzi
200
12
10
10:00 10 ONE-
115
175
500
144
7
229
348
27
Niobe, str.
1,672 German
Plaff
170
171
349
27
Kong Beng, str.
862 British
Jones
Bangkok
66 2
350
28 Edward May
890 American
Johnson
Honolulu
176
26
70
5
1
195
351
28 Gaelic, str.
2,691 British
Pearne
San Francisco
937 20
957
352
29 Bellerophon, str.
1,396
Guthrie
Straits Settlements
190
6
3
199
353 Nov.
1
Changsha, str..
1,463
Williams
185
190
:)
354
"
1
Ajax, str.
1,525
Riley
146 10
2
158
355
"
1
Electra, str.
1,162 German
Madsen
213
220
356
1
Whampoa, str.
1,109 British
Hunt
Australian Ports
150
150
Port Darwin
301
Cooktown
2
Townsville
13
357
""
2 Catterthun, str.
1,406
Darke
Brisbane
8
97
Sydney
31
1
2
Melbourne
6
Adelaide
4
358
2 Oopack, str.
1,729
""
359
3 Rohilla, str.
2,251
Jaques Barratt
Straits Settlements
357
13
4
4
378
55!
55
360
>>
3 | Phra Chula Chom Klao, S
1,012
>>
Lightwood
Bangkok
65
10
361
4 Duburg, str.
921 German
Bertelsen
Straits Settlements
294
9
00 m
8
87
304
362
4 Braunschweig, str.
2,150
Stormer
178
178
363
"
8 Lombardy, str.
1,571 British
Webber
364
"
8 Japan, str.
1,865
Gardner
29
"
365
8
City of New York, str.
1,964 American
Searle
San Francisco
366
"
9 Medusa, str...
1,775 Austrian
Perini
Straits Settlements
501 1 225 17 509 284 11
51
8
250
509
295
}
367
9 Palinurus, str..
1,536 British
"1
368
10 Bormida, str.
1,499 Italian
Jackson Pizzarello
289
4
3
296
"
115
116
"
369
"J
12 Cheang Hock Kian, str...
956 British
Webb
385
17
10
5
412
"?
370
12 Soochow, str.
999
Harris
17
Sydney Melbourne
18
41
}
59
371
15 Belgic, str.
2,695
Walker
San Francisco
760
372
15 Ghazee, str.
1,764
Johnson
Straits Settlements
460 10
373
"
15 Sarpedon, str..
1,591
Chrimes
250
10
374
27
16 Denbighshire, str.
1,663
77
Cuming
274
375
17 Iphigenia, str.
1,059 German
Valtmer
";
21
110
376
18 Orestes, str.
1,323 British
"
377
""
19 Hydaspes, str.
1,890
Hutchinson Scrivener
150
62
>>
378
29
20 Gleneagles, str.
1,838
"
Park
225 15
"
379
22 Taichiow, str.
862
";
380
23 Fidelio, str.
852 German
Newton Brock
Bangkok
41
381
24 Parthia, str.
2,035 British
Brough
Straits Settlements
370
363
21
382
25 Picciola, str.
Nissen
383
"
384
**
385
"
386
"
25 Guthrie, str.
26 Titania, str......
26 Benledi, str..
29 Wing Sang, str.
387
29 Amigo, str.
388
>>
30 City of Peking, str.
389 Dec.
1 Glaucus, str.
875 German
1,493 British 2,011 Austrian 999 British
1,517
771 German 3,129 | American
1,382 British
Shannon Mersa Riddoch
Ste. Croix
Samuelsen Dearborn Hannah
Australian Ports Straits Settlements
198
00 10
ក
2 6
72
996m2
10 00 00 10 Na
760
480
271
2
22
280 116
156
62
250
373
3
371
:
200
130
130
::
248
20 10 10
288
138
5
143
*
350
10
360
192
192
::
San Francisco
677
677
Straits Settlements
163
390
1 Khiva, str.
1,419
Bason
111
as on
3
166
3
114
2
•
391
"
1 | Phra Chom Klao, str.
1,012
Walton
Bangkok
70
2
72
392
""
4 Surat, str...
1,677
Nantes
Straits Settlements
100
100
393
4 James Watt, str..
1,024
Petrie
118
"
394
6 Ulysses, str........
1,300
Bremner
>>
""
100
395
6 Alden Besse..
812 American
**
396
7 San Pablo, str.
2,113
"
397
**
398
"
10 Duburg, str.............
399
7 Arratoon Apcar, sir.
11 Elektra, str....
1,392 British
O'Brien Reed
Mactavish
Honolulu
235
22+
120
102
239
San Francisco
618
618
Straits Settlements
297
9
3
309
921 German
2,095 Austrian
Bertelsen Ragusin
218
221
11
325
ลง
2
336
**
Carried forward.....
581,539
Carried forward..............| 78,968| 2,358
811
390 82,527
392
RETURN of VESSELS bringing CHINESE PASSENGERS to the Port of Victoria, Hongkong,-(Continued).
No.
DATE ARRIVED,
SHIP'S NAME.
TONS.
NATION- ALITY OF SHIP.
ADULTS.
CHILDREN.
MASTER'S ΝΑΜΕ.
WHERE FROM.
TOTAL.
JI.
F.
M. F
Brought forward...... 581,539
400 Dec.
11
Mongkut, str.
401 402 103
::
13 Anchises, str.
#
13
Chingtu, str.
$59 British 1,304 1,459
Loff
Brought forward...... 78,968 2,358
Bangkok
$11 390
82,527
138
140
•
Lapage
Straits Settlements
146
165.
Varden
80
SI
**
**
33
13 Coloma,
814 American
Noyes
Portland, Oregon
850
350
Port Darwin
Thursday Island
104
"
13 Taiwan, str....
1,109 British
Clegg
Cooktown
Townsville
156
Brisbane
Sydney
Melbourne
14
405 406
**
16
Domenico Balduino, str.
3,044 Italian
Dadero
Straits Settlements
500
"
17
Lydia, str.
1,170 German
Voss
146
407
""
17 Benalder, str.
1,331 British
Ross
511
146
115
:
408
2
18 Kaisar-I-Hind, str.
2,401
Stead
56
409
20 Cheang Hock Kian, str.
955
Webb
331
410
20 Glengyle, str.
2,244
Donaldson
399
""
411
20 Stentor, str..
1.317
Edwards
180
10
༢ ༣ མཁ
56 350
406
193
412
413
"
414
415
11
416
23 Kong Beng, str.
23 City of Sydney, str.
28 Pandora, str.
28 Telemachus, str.
862
爷爷
Phillips
Bangkok
531
53
23 | Phra Chula Chom Klao, s.
1,012
Lightwood
73
75
-
1,966 American
Friele
San Francisco
553
553
1,781 Austrian -
Mersa
Straits Settlements
450
500
1,421 British
Jones
58
60
417
"7
28 Priam, str.
1.4027
Butler
120
120
"
418
"
29
Japan, str.
1,865
Gardner
283
283
419
""
29
Lorne, str.
1,035
Hunter
225 3
420
29
"
Patroclus, str.
1,386
Thompson
50
421
**
29
Fidelio, str.
852 German
Brock
296
1 2 99
1
230
52
299
422
30
>!
Oceanic, str.
2,440 British
Davison
San Francisco
607
607
423
""
30
Decima, str....
965 German
Oestmanu
Straits Settlements
299
15
421
30
":
Edward Kidder,.
965 American
425
"!
81
Picciola, str.
875 German
Griffin Nissen
Portland, Oregon
161
53
326
2
170
Straits Settlements
179
180
TOTAL TONS.................
618,373
From Adelaide, South Australia,
;)
Australian Ports,
"}
Bangkok,
;;
Batavia,
"
Brisbane, Queensland,
"
Cooktown, Queensland,
::
Dunedin, New Zealand,
17
Honolulu, Sandwich Islands,
Mauritius,
་་
""
Melbourne,
Newcastle, N.S.W.,
Port Darwin. South Australia,
•
""
Portland, Oregon, U.S.A.,
19
San Francisco, U.S.A.,
Straits Settlements,
Sydney,
"
Thursday Island, Queensland,
Townsville, Queensland,
SUMMARY.
TOTAL PASSENGERS,
TOTAL PASSENGERS
84,975 2,474
852 403 88.704
ADULTS.
CHILDREN.
TOTAL.
M.
F.
J. F.
VALUE
OF TREASURE BROUGHT.
9 1,190 3,566, 151
:
61
28
1,204 3,806
1:
}
255
255
125
125
$ 65,857
47
47
1,684
35
25
B
1,757
34
34
207
207
5
I
117
117
19,500
511
3
2
520
12,963 136 37
20
13.166
9,361,451
63,560 2,131
724 330
66,745
521
3
526 821,241
14
14
166
166
84,975 2,474
$52 403 88,701 $10,268,019
XXI-RETURN of MARINE CASES tried at the MARINE MAGISTRATE's Court, during the Year 1886.
DEFENDANTS, HOW DISPOSED OF.
NATURE OF CHARGE.
NO. OF CASES.
No. of
DE- Impri- Impri- FEND- soned soned with ANTS.
in Hard default Labour. of Fine.
Fined.
Forfei- ture
Repri- manded.
of Pay.
Duty.
To be Sent dis- back to charged
from Ship.
Com-
Dis- missed.
mitted for Trial.
10123
1
9
9
Absent from Ship without Leave,.. Assault,
Boarding House, Keeping Unlicensed,.
Broaching Cargo, &c.,
Disorderly Conduct,
Found stowed away,
Drunkenness,
Insubordination,
Obstruction of fairways,
Refusal of Duty,
Leaving without Clearance (Junk).
Refuse to join ship......
Throwing Ballast, &c. into Harbour,
Wilfully remaining behind,
18
20
8
TOTAL...
58
87
40
10
2
CO
3
24
6
គ
AMOUNT OF
FINES.
$18.00
24.00
17.00
24.00
2.00
1
11
$85.00
----་་་་་་་་་་་
:
6,400,000
6,300,000
6,200,000
6,100,000
6,000,000
5,900,000
5,800,000
5,700,000
5,600,000
5,500,000
5,400,000
5,300,000
5,200,000
5,100,000
5,000,000
4,900,000
4,800,000
4:700,000
4,6co,cco
4,500,000
4,400,000
4:300,000
4,200,000
4,100,000
TONS.
1867.
1868.
1869.
1870.
XXII.-DIAGRAM of Tonnage entered at Hor
BLUE LINE represents Junk Tonnage or
RED LINE represents Foreign Shipping
THICK BLACK LINE represents entire
1871.
1872.
1873.
1874.
1875.
1876.
1877.
1875.
1876.
1877.
entered at Hongkong, from 1867 to 1886 inclusive.
Junk Tonnage only.
ɔreign Shipping Tonnage only.
represents entire Trade in Foreign Ships and Junks.
1878.
1879.
1884.
1885.
1886.
6,400,000
6,300,000
6,200,000
6,100,000
6,000,000
5,900,000
5,800,000
5,700,000
5,600,000
5,500,000
5,400,000
5,300,000
5,200,000
5,100,000
5,000,000
4,900,000
4,800,000
4,700,000
4,600,000
4,500,000
4.400,000
4,300,000
4,200,000
4,100,000
TONS.
4,600,000
4,500,000
4,400,000
4:300,000
4,200,000
4,100,000
4,000,000
3,900,000
3,800,000
3,700,000
3,600,000
3:500,000
*3:400,cco
3,300,000
3,200,cco
3,100,000
3,000,000
2,900,000
2,800,coo
2,700,000
2,600,000
2,500,000
2,400,000
2,300,000
2,200,000
2,100,000
2,000,000
1,900,000
1,800,000
1,700,000
1,600,000
1,500,000
1,400,000
1,300,000
1,200,000
1,100,000
1,000,000
Harbour Department, Hongkong, 10th February, 1887.
4,500,000
4,400,000
4,300,000
4,200,000
4,100,000
4,000,000
3,900,000
3,800,000
3,700,000
3,600,000
3,500,000
3,400,000
3,300,000
3,200,000
3,100,000.
3,000,000
2,900,000
2,800,000
2,700,000
2,600,000
2,500,000
2,400,000
2,300,000
2,200,000
2,100,000
2,000,000
[1,900,000
1,800,000
1,700,000
1,600,000
1,500,000
1,400,000
1,300,000
1,200,000
1,100,000
1,000,000
H. G. THOMSETT, R.N.,
Harbour Master, &c.
449
No. 87.
33
HONGKONG.
DESPATCH RESPECTING THE CELEBRATION OF HER MAJESTY'S JUBILEE.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His
Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 19th September, 1887.
HONGKONG.
No. 144.
SIR,
DOWNING STREET,
10th August, 1887.
I have had the honour to lay before the QUEEN your Despatch, No. 223 of the 22nd of June, and I am commanded to convey to you Her Majesty's gracious approval of the proposal to postpone the special celebration of the Jubilee. in Hongkong to the 9th of November next.
You will have learned from my telegram of the 23rd of June that Her Majesty received with much pleasure the loyal telegrams referred to in your Despatch under acknowledgment.
I have the honour to be.
Sir,
Your most obedient humble Servant,
The Officer Administering the Government of
HONGKONG.
H. T. HOLLAND.
No. 1888.
41
175
HONGKONG.
THE EVICTION OF SQUATTERS AT KENNEDY TOWN.
Presented to the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 17th September, 1886.
Minute by the Surveyor General.
These people, who were trespassers on Crown Land, were, at the request of the Military Authorities and also for sanitary reasons, removed from the vicinity of the present Belcher's Point Battery, and as they asked for time in order to look about them for fresh sites, they were allowed under covenant with the Sanitary Inspector to occupy temporarily and provisionally, and for a term not exceeding six months, the hillside at Kennedy Town just above the present Glass Works. In the arrangement between them and the Sanitary Inspector it was also stipulated by him and readily agreed to by them, that their pigsties should be kept in a pro- per condition.
They pledged themselves to observe these conditions, but kept the pigsties in a most filthy state, and at the expiration of the covenanted term of six months refused to remove.
.
The Nuisance Inspectors then on more than one occasion notified them to move away in accordance with their original promise, but they took no heed.
This breach of faith with a Government that had shown them every consider- ation, and their continuance on the ground and the increase of the nuisance compelled me to take up the matter personally, and I accordingly visited them at their camp twice, warning them that they would have to bestir themselves and look about for other places as on no account could the Government sanction their remaining at Kennedy Town. They readily promised to select other sites, and it was arranged they were to visit me at my office in a fortnight and point out to me on the map the places they had selected.
The fortnight having expired and an additional month, without any of them putting in an appearance at my office; I was compelled again to go in quest of them, and finding they had done nothing towards looking for other sites, I had them brought to me in batches of tens and fifteens, when being warned of the determination of the Government to move them out of Kennedy Town, they were made to come to some terms with me, many of them accepting sites at Kau-lung- wan and others at Kowloon. They, however, pointed out that the new ground being strange to them, they would like to go and see it first before making any application for the licences. This appeared to me reasonable, and accordingly I assented, agreeing with them that they should return in a week to settle details.
As far as I could ascertain they never went to Kau-lung-wan or Kowloon, and they never returned to see me.
My attention is very much engrossed with other and more important public matters, and it may readily be conceived that I could not devote my whole time to these people and their proceedings. Some months therefore elapsed before I could again occupy myself with them.
In the earlier part of this year I returned to the charge, and was much sur- prised upon a personal inspection of the camp to see how much each trespasser had enlarged his premises and increased the number of his pigs, and how much fouler the whole place was bidding fair to become unless steps were taken to clear the ground, and accordingly a most serious admonition was given to the trespassers warning them of the Government intention to remove them without further delay unless they went of their own accord. Most of those with whom I spoke asked for time, varying from six months to one year. This was refused.
176
About three months ago His Excellency the Officer Administering the Go- vernment directed my attention to the necessity of building a Police Station at Kennedy Town for which funds are voted in the current year's Colonial Estimates, and Dr. Ayres, Captain Deane, and myself having been directed to select the best site, we chose a spot close to the camp of the trespassers and recommended its adoption to Government.
In addition to the wholesale nuisance which the trespassers are creating they have dislodged all the stones along the bed of the nullah, so that when the great rain-storm of last July came, enormous quantities of loosened earth and debris were washed down into the Davis Street drain between the Rope Works and Glass Works, choking up and bursting this drain and putting the Government to an expense of $1,700 in repairs.
The necessity for certain additional works of storm drainage and defence against freshets, in order to prevent a recurrence of disasters of this kind made it clear that it was necessary without any loss of time to remove such of the tres- passers' huts as were situated within the area of the proposed new catch water drains and excavations, while the probability of an early beginning with the pro- posed new Police Station and approach roads made it equally obvious that those of the pigsties and huts within these works would also have to follow soon after.
Therefore on Friday, the 20th of last month, I again visited the trespassers* camp; and after vainly searching for some indication of their intention to remove, I instructed Mr. McLeod, the officer in charge of the proposed new works, to notify through the channel of the Interpreter about forty or forty-five of the trespassers who were in the way of the new works that they must, willing or unwilling, remove before the morning of the last day of August, for the new works would begin on the 1st of September. It was made clear to them that further extensions of time were out of the question, as any delay of the new works would not be tolerated.
On the same day (20th of August) Mr. McLeod duly served this notice on the trespassers concerned, reporting to me in the evening.
The last day of August arrived, and on Mr. McLeod proceeding to the spot to make arrangements for beginning the works next day, he was disconcerted to find that no notice whatsoever had been taken by the trespassers of my last warn- ing. Mr. McLeod thereupon took it upon himself to give them a final 24 hours, assuring them that his orders from me were positive and that he must himself begin removing the pigsties and huts if they did not make a beginning of their own accord.
I approved of the additional 24 hours given them by Mr. McLeod without reference to me, feeling that the sight of the workmen and other preparations in the neighbourhood would convince them that they must now prepare to go.
On the morning of the 2nd instant, the trespassers had not yet shown any sign of moving, and acting under my instructions Mr. McLeod removed such of the pigsties and huts as happened to be situated within the area of the proposed works.
Next month, when the new Police Station is begun, it will be my disagreeable duty, unless specially directed by His Excellency to the contrary, to remove many more of the huts and pigsties, due notice being of course as usual given to these poachers, not that it will do any good or in any way influence their removal of their own accord.
3rd September, 1886.
(Signed),
J. M. PRICE,
Surveyor General.
Minute by the Surveyor General.
MR. CHAN AFOOK,-I learn that the trespassers at Kennedy Town state to the Registrar General that they were not offered any sites to remove to when they were called upon by me, some months ago, to move from their present camp above the present Glass Works.
As considerable attention was given by me at the time to the selection of suitable sites in alternative districts for these people, and as my propositions were communicated to them through yourself as interpreter, I desire to hear from you what is your recollection as to the offers which were made to them.
(Signed), J. M. PRICE,
Surveyor General.
12th September, 1886.
Report by Mr. Chan Afook.
Hon. J. M. PRICE, Surveyor General.
SIR,-In accordance with your request that I should state exactly what offers were made to the pigkeepers at Kennedy Town of other sites where to move to, I beg to state that in literal interpretation of your offer I communicated to them as follows:-
Sites at Kau-lung-wan, just above Mr. Sharp's lot.
Sites at Mong-kok in Kowloon.
Sites at Tai-kok-tsui.
And to one of the men, who was a toothpowder maker, you offered a special site at Hoi Chau Wan.
It was arranged that they were all to go and inspect the sites offered and to come back within seven days to report whether they accepted them. I never heard that any of them ever came back.
12th September, 1886.
(Signed),
CHAN AFOOK.
Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government.
A reference to C. S. O. 2,031 of 1884 will show that in 1884 these persons were allowed to settle on this spot of ground on the express condition that they were to be there for six months only, and that in the meantime they were to look about for some other locality. They were also to keep their pigsties in proper order.
More than two years have elapsed since then, and in spite of repeated warnings they have never taken any steps to choose another site, and from the manner in which they have recently extended their huts, it would appear that they have made up their minds fully not to move from their present sites.
The site is now required by Government for building a Police Station, and further, their pigsties have for some time past become a serious sanitary nuisance.
The breach of faith appears to me to have been entirely on the part of these squatters and not of the Government, and I can see no reason why they have any claim on the sympathy of the Protector of Chinese. They pay no squatter's licence and have absolutely no right whatever to be where they are. They might with equal right squat down in the Government Gardens, on the Cricket Field, or on the Chinese Recreation Ground. They might all be punished for keeping pigsties in a filthy state.
A message came up yesterday from the Sanitary Inspector that they are now willing to remove at once to Mong-kok in Kowloon. They should be required to take out squatter's licences, as if they do not do so they will be liable to be removed from the new site.
Whether the Surveyor General has acted legally in removing these men without applying to a Magistrate is another question on which the Acting Attorney General may be asked to advise. But it is clear that they had to be removed and that they had sufficient notice to move given over and over again.
The question whether Chinese should be allowed to come over from the mainland and settle without leave or licence wherever they choose will be con- sidered by the Land Commission. It is a very important question, and I have asked the General Commanding the Troops for his opinion for the information of the Land Commission. Hongkong is a quasi-Military Station, and the question has to be considered what would have to be done in case of war, besides the im- portant point of self-preservation from disease which might be occasioned through the agglomeration of persons without any sanitary precautions.
Since 15 to 20 years ago some very stringent orders about squatters were issued by the Secretary of State to the Governinent of Mauritius, and I think also to the Governors of the West Indian Islands. I am informed that no persons are permitted to come into Gibraltar from Spain and settle down without special per- mission.
Pending the report of the Land Commission care should be taken to prevent any more Chinese from settling without permission on Crown Land, and instruc- tions must be given to the Police to report all cases that come to their notice espe- cially in the Districts. Mention to be made of all such in the morning reports.
(Signed), W. H. MARSH.
6th September, 1886.
177
4
178
Minutes by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government.
I visited the Chinese encampment at Kennedy Town yesterday accompanied by the Surveyor General and Major Dempster, and we walked through it. The filth and stenches on all sides were something indescribable and were enough to produce typhoid fever. In dry weather it must be much worse, as occasionally this camp, which is on a hill side, is partially cleansed by the heavy rain in summer. About 40 huts appear to have been pulled down or about one third of the
camp.
A Police Station is about to be erected and will be commenced very soon, on the very spot where these huts are erected. Therefore they must all go, and if the Acting Attorney General says that any legal notice or application to the Magistrate is necessary, it should be made at once. If he thinks that the repeated notices given by the Surveyor General's Department, which have been hitherto utterly disregarded, are sufficient, then a last notice should be given to them by the Acting Registrar General, and if they disregard it, the whole camp will be pulled down and the ground cleared for building.
I cannot help feeling some commiseration for these people on account of their poverty, but it must be remembered
1st. That they are trespassers and have been warned eighteen months ago to
somewhere else.
2nd. That their camp is a standing menace to the health of the whole commu- nity by reason of its filthy condition, and that it is the bounden duty of the Government, in the interests of the community, to remove this nuisance, and it would be equally the duty of the Government to do so if they were not trespassers but were paying rent. They are therefore liable to prosecution.
3rd. They are keeping pigs without licences, and are therefore liable to
prosecution.
In all cases where pigs are kept within the limits of the City without licences, the Law should be strictly enforced. The pigkeepers seem to think that the city exists principally for their own convenience.
I presume that it will not cost very much to transport these people and their effects in junks across to Mong-kok or whatever place may be selected by the Sur- veyor General, and I am willing to sanction such expenditure.
They are entitled to no compensation, and it would be a most impolitic action to grant them any compensation ex misericordia. It would inevitably encourage swarms of their countrymen to come over from Kwong-tung and do as they have done; settle down on Crown land without premission, and then, when either Go- vernment wanted to use the ground or their utter disregard of all sanitary rules rendered their removal necessary, expect to be compensated for removing.
My own opinion is that it is not desirable to encourage a further influx from China of persons of this class.
of this class. But this question is now under consideration by the Land Commission.
8th September, 1886.
(Signed), W. H. MARSH.
Send Copy to Surveyor General and Acting Registrar General.
(Signed);
W. H. MARSH.
Since writing the above minute I have been informed that these squatters are not so poor as I supposed. They have been able to offer a sum of money to any one who can either compel or induce the Government to leave them undisturbed where they are.
(Signed),
W. H. MARSH.
$
Extract from a letter from the Superintendent of the Botanical
Gardens, dated 14th September, 1886.
I have the honour to report that on the 26th July, when engaged in Forestry Inspections I discovered on the western side of Mount Davis 95 good-sized trees with all their lower branches cut off, and the latter lying on the ground. I also found that during the last twelve months a large number of trees in that locality had been treated in the same manner. These I have subsequently had counted and found that the number is 1,389. This seems to have been done under a regular system of cutting in patches, one succeeding another. I have had the locality carefully watched since I made the discovery, but no one has ventured to remove any of the parts of the trees which have been left to dry preparatory to their being carried away.
I believe the trees on Mount Davis have been cut by people living in mat-sheds near Kennedy Town. I have the names of three men who are strongly suspected; one of them lives in a mat-shed and is employed burning rice chaff for which a considerable quantity of fuel is required.
179.
Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government.
The Acting Captain Superintendent of Police is requested to report what cha- racter the Squatters at Kennedy Town bear as far as the Police know.
14th September, 1886.
(Signed),
W. H. MARSH.
Minute by the Acting Captain Superintendent of Police.
Since the question of Squatters, was before the Sanitary Board at a late meeting, I have made inquiries concerning the character of those located in Kennedy Town and find that this place is inhabited by a very doubtful class of Chinese. A number of men from this Village attacked and robbed Messrs. Howard & Co.'s Com- pradore at Praya West on the 14tb ultimo. These men were armed with swords. (See Police Court case, No. 9,212.)
Several robberies had been committed at Praya West, previous to this case, but none since. This gang of robbers were living in the village for about 9 months.
The women of the village appear to work hard feeding pigs.
Some of the men are employed in making tooth-powder, but the greater number wander about the City in search of plunder.
15th September, 1886.
(Signed),
T. C. DEMPSTER, Major,
Actg. Capt. Supt. of Police.
.
1
HONGKONG.
REPORT
FROM THE
HONGKONG LAND COMMISSION
OF
1886-1887,
ON THE HISTORY OF THE
SALE, TENURE, AND OCCUPATION OF THE CROWN LANDS OF THE COLONY
WITH RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THEIR FUTURE REGULATION AND CONTROL AND
THE FACILITATION OF TRANSFER AND ALSO ON THE ALLEVIATION
OF OVERCROWDING IN THE CITY OF VICTORIA
TOGETHER WITH APPENDIX.
DLEUM
DROT
HONGKONG:
PRINTED BY NORONHA & Co.,
Government Printers.
1887.
HONGKONG.
REPORT OF THE HONGKONG LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-1887.
457
No.
35
87.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 23rd September, 1887.
ས
}
T
CONTENTS.
COMMISSION,
•
TABLE OF CONTENTS OF REPORT,
REPORT,
APPENDIX,
Page v.
vii.
""
ix.
";
"}
1.
COMMISSION
OF
His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government.
[L.S.] W. H. MARSH.
Whereas it is expedient that a Commission should be appointed to enquire into and report upon the system of leasing or otherwise disposing of Crown Lands, and to suggest any alterations or im- provements therein, or to facilitate the transfer of land held directly or indirectly from the Crown and generally to report upon any means that can be adopted by the Government in the disposal of land to check overcrowding in the more thickly populated parts of the City: Now, therefore, I WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George, Officer Administering the Government of the Colony of Hongkong and its Dependencies and Vice-Admiral of the same, do hereby appoint you Sir GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knight, Chief Justice; The Honourable EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD, Acting Attorney General; The Honourable JOHN MACNELLE PRICE, Surveyor General; ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, Esquire, Justice of the Peace; and Ho KAI, Esquire, Justice of the Peace, to be a Commission to make such Inquiry and to take evidence for the purpose, and to report to me the evidence and your opinion thereon; and I hereby charge all persons in the public service to assist you herein.
Given under my Hand and the Public Seal of the Colony, this 30th day of April, 1886.
By Command,
FREDERICK STEWART,
Acting Colonial Secretary.
TABLE OF CONTENTS OF REPORT.
Pages.
INTRODUCTORY,
ix
Government Notification of 10th April, 1843,
SYSTEM OF Selling and GRANTING CROWN LANDS UPON LEASE OR OTHERWISE,
Sir Charles Elliot's Public Notice and Declaration of 1st May, 1841, Public Notice of proposed Sale of 7th June, 1841,
Postponement of Sale to 14th June, 1841,
Terms of Sale on 14th June, 1841,
Sir Charles Elliot's object in the disposal of Crown Lands,
Government Notification of 15th October, 1841,
Government Notification of 22nd March, 1842,...
Appointment of first Land Committee of 29th March, 1842,
Commencement of difficulties and misunderstandings,
Government Notification of 2nd May, 1842,
Prohibition of further grants of Land.......
Extract from Instructions to Land and Road Inspector, of 27th May, 1842,
Grants of Land under the Charter of the Colony and Her Majesty's Instructions regarding same, No Lands to be sold or let except at Public Auction,
Government Notification of 21st August, 1843, and appointment of Second Land Committee, Report of Second Land Committee, recommending the granting of Leases for 75 years and classification
of Lots,
Registration of Deeds Ordinance 3 of 1844,
Land taken possession of in 1844 by numbers of Chinese without permission,
X
X
X
xi
xi
xi
xii
xii
xiii
xiii
xiii
xiii
xiv
xiv
**
xiv
Xiv
XV
xvi
xvi
xvi
Government Proclamation of 21st October, 1844,
xvi
Encroachments by lot holders in 1844 in building Balconies and Verandahs,.
xvii
Government Notification of 19th November, 1844,
xvii
Verandahs allowed from the year 1846,
xvii
Complaints in 1847 regarding the land tenure and high Crown Rents,
xvii
Recommendations by Governors Davis and Bonham that the Leases be extended to 999 years,
xvii
Governor Bonham's Despatch of 26th August, 1848,
xvii
Earl Grey's Despatch in reply of 4th December, 1848, authorising extension of Leases in virtual
perpetuity for 999 years,
xvii
Government Notification of 3rd March, 1849,
xvii
Appointment of 3rd Land Committee of 1849,
xviii
Report of 3rd Land Committee, ....
xviii
Opinion of the Attorney General on Sub-leases of sections. August 1850,....................................................
xviii
Governor Bonham's Despatch of 29th August, 1850,
xviii
Earl Grey's Despatch in reply of 2nd January, 1851,
xviii
Houses standing upon them.......
Missing Parliamentary Blue Book (China) of 1847,
Land Commission of 1875 on high Crown Rents, Cessation of Complaints of high Crown Rents, Sales of Crown Land since 1869,...
STATISTICS:--ACREAGE OF HONGKONG,
Numbers and Rentals of Leased Lots,
Estimate of the population,
DIVISION OF THE LOTS INTO Sections and Subsections and TITLES TO Land,
Transfers of Sections allowed,
Remaining Portion Owner liable for whole Crown Rent,
xviii
xix
xix
xix
xix
xix
XX
XX
XX
XX
XX
The difficulties and complexities which have arisen,
Re-entry of Lots for non-payment of Rent,
XX
xxi
Ordinance limiting Titles advisable,
Commissioners' opinion on division of control,....
Petition of Solicitors supported by inhabitants in 1885,
Causes of complications in Titles to land,
Judgments of the Supreme Court,
Some grants of land possibly void,
Occupancy of LAND IN THE VILLAGES OTHER THAN UNDER Crown Leases,
Original Villagers, Licensed Squatters, and Trespassers,
Division of control of Crown Lands,
Grass Cutters, and keepers of Cattle and Goats,
Consequence of system of squatting,
Governor's Minute of 8th September, 1886, directing Police to prevent squatting,
xxi
xxi
xxii
xxii
xxii
xxiii
xxiii
xxħi
xxiii
xxiii
xxiii
xxiii
1
viii
TABLE OF CONTENTS OF REPORT.
Pages.
RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMISSIONERS,..
(1) Special Commissioner,
(2) Or Crown Land Board,
(3) Or Surveyor General invested with greater powers, (4) Or Land Court,
Crown Land Board preferred,
Surveyors required,
Large quantities of Land held rent free and tax free,
xxiii
xxiii
xxiv
xxiv
xxiv
xxiv
xxiv
xxiv
Parties in possession of Land should be dealt with equitably and liberally,
xxiv
New Crown Leases to be granted for sections and sub-sections as a remedy for confusion,
xxiv
Constitution of Crown Land Board,
XXV
Leases to be made records of Court,....
XXV
Possessory rights and claims to easements to be considered,.
XXV
Squatting to be abolished,..
XXV
Original Owners to be granted Leases for 999 years,
XXV
Licensed Squatters compensated for disturbance,
xxvi
Trespassers of long standing to be given reasonable notice to remove and to have compensation for
improvements,
xxvi
Pastoral, Agricultural or Garden Lots,
xxvi
Government Agents for outlying districts,
xxvi
Public Maps required,
Larger Staff for Land Office,
All Buildings Lots should be granted on the same tenure,
Difficulties in 75 years Leases,..
Disposal of Lands in the best interests of the whole community,...
Extension of Leases from 75 to 999 years,.
New Registration Ordinance,
Amendments to existing Registration Ordinance,
Resumption of Land for public purposes,
New forms of Crown Lease, Assigument and Mortgage,
Registration of Powers of Attorney,
xxvii
xxvii
xxvii
xxvii
xxviii
xxviii
xxviii
xxviii
xxviii
xxviii
xxviii
Copies of all documents to be recorded in the Land Office,
Protection of boundaries,
Restriction of Chinese houses,
Assessment of rates and taxes,.
Disposal of Land outside Victoria,
Land should be sold free of temporary occupants,
OVERCROWDING IN VICTORIA, ITS Causes and METHODS OF ALLEVIATION,.
xxix
xxix
xxix
xxix
xxix
.xxix
Contracts for Sale of Crown Lands and dealings with Contracts to be registered,.
Complaints of Overcrowding,
Earl of Kimberley's Despatch of 26th November, 1880,
People rendered homeless if proposed Sanitary measures adopted,
Enormous rents,.
xxix
XXX
XXX
XXX
XXX
XXX
Means to check overcrowding by enlarging area,
XXX
Removal of Naval and Military Establishments from centre of Town,
XXX
Land held by Naval Authorities,.
xxxi
Land held by Military Authorities,
xxxi
Restrictions by Military Authorities on other Land,
xxxi
The Town cut in two,
xxxi
Reasons and advantages for removal of Naval and Military Establishments from centre of Town,.....
xxxi
Unnecessary restrictions ou building at Kowloon and above Kennedy Road,..
xxxii
Removal of certain public buildings,
xxxii
Free communication wanted by Railway or Tramway,.
xxxiii
REDEMPTION of Crown RENTS,
xxxiii.
Purchase moneys from Land Sales placed to a separate account,
xxxiii
Crown Rents might be put on same footing,
xxxiii
Expenses and system of reclamations,.
xxxίν
Revenue for permanent improvements,
xxxiv
Crown Land Board might allow commutations for Crown Rent,
xxxiv
Amount to be paid for commutation,
xxxiv
Growth of Crown Rents,
xxxiv
Amount at present received would hardly be missed,
xxxiv
Table shewing growth of Crown Rents, annual value of buildings, amounts received for rates and
growth of Revenue for all sources,
xxxiv
Conclusion of Report,.......
XXXV
}
LAND COMMISSION REPORT.
i
A Commission was issued by the Officer Administering the Government on the 30th of April, 1886, appointing the undersigned Commissioners for the purpose of inquiring into and reporting upon the system of leasing or otherwise disposing of Crown Lands, and to suggest any alterations or im- provements therein, or to facilitate the transfer of land held directly or indirectly from the Crown, and generally to report upon any means that can be adopted by the Government in the disposal of land to check overcrowding in the more thickly populated parts of the City. They were also empowered to receive evidence for that purpose, and to report the evidence and their opinion thereon.
Mr. BRUCE SHEPHERD, Deputy Land Officer, was appointed Secretary to the Commission on the 4th May, 1886, and on the 9th October following, Mr. JAMES SAMPSON then temporarily attached as Surveyor to the Public Works Department was appointed Land Surveyor to the Commission for the purpose of obtaining information required by the Commissioners with reference to the numbers, dwellings, areas of ground occupied, and other requisite particulars concerning the villagers in the outlying districts and the nature of their occupancy.
The inquiries of the Commission were necessarily divided under four heads :-
1st. The system of selling and granting Crown Lands upon Lease or otherwise.
2nd. The registration of deeds and documents in the Land Office, including the system of
dividing and sub-dividing the lots granted upon Lease by the Leaseholders into sections and sub-sections and sections of sub-sections.
3rd. The occupancy of Land in the villages other than under Crown Leases.
4th. The overcrowding in the City of Victoria, its causes, and methods of alleviation.
The extent and nature of these subjects induced the Commissioners to prepare a series of questions upon most of the matters under inquiry in order that answers and information might be obtained after due consideration, a copy of which is annexed, and on the 16th February, 1887, these questions were circulated among upwards of 100 of the principal Landowners, Barristers, Solicitors, Surveyors, and others having special knowledge of the subjects under inquiry, and, as the result, information and answers have been presented to the Committee by 66 individuals and important evidence has thereby been obtained.
These answers have been presented by 10 European Landowners, 34 Chinese Landowners (31 of whom have given their answers and opinions in one body), 12 Barristers and Solicitors, 4 Surveyors and Auctioneers, and 6 by Government Officers having special knowledge of the subjects under consi- deration.
Seven sittings of the Commission have been held in the Chambers of the Chairman.
X
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
THE SYSTEM OF SELLING AND GRANTING CROWN LANDS
UPON LEASE OR OTHERWISE.
The disposition of Crown Lands by sale commenced with the earliest days of the Colony. Pos- session was taken of the Island of Hongkong on behalf of the Crown on the 26th January, 1841, and on the 1st May of the same year, the following public notice of the first land sale and declaration of the conditions upon which allotments of land would be made, was published by Captain (afterwards Sir CHARLES) ELLIOT, the then "Chief Superintendent of the Trade of British subjects in China, and holding full powers, under the Great Seal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, to execute the Office of Her Majesty's Commissioner, Procurator, and Plenipotentiary in China."
PUBLIC NOTICE AND DECLARATION OF 1ST MAY, 1841.
"The following Notice is published for general information. But the necessary particulars not having yet been obtained regarding the portions of land already surveyed, the blanks relating to number and extent of allotments and period of sale, cannot yet be filled up.
"Arrangements having been made for the permanent occupation of the Island of Hongkong it has become necessary to declare the principles and conditions upon which allotments of land will be made, pending Her Majesty's further pleasure.
"With a view to the reservation to the Crown of as extensive a control over the lands as may be compatible with the immediate progress of the establishment, it is now declared that the number of allotments to be disposed of from time to time will be regulated with due regard to the actual public
wants.
"It will be a condition of each title that a building of a certain value, hereafter to be fixed, must be erected within a reasonable period of time on the allotments; and there will be a general reservation of all Her Majesty's rights. Pending Her Majesty's further pleasure the lands will be allotted accord- ing to the principles and practice of British laws upon the tenure of quit rent to the Crown.
"Each allotment to be put up at public auction at a certain upset rate of quit rent and to be disposed of to the highest bidder; but it is engaged upon the part of Her Majesty's Government, that persons taking land upon these terms shall have the privilege of purchasing in freehold (if that tenure shall hereafter be offered by Her Majesty's Government), or of continuing to hold upon the original quit rent, if that condition be better liked.
"All arrangements with natives for the cession of lands, in cultivation, or substantially built upon, to be made only through an officer deputed by the Government of the Island; and no title will be valid, and no occupancy respected, unless the person claiming shall hold under an instrument granted by the Government of the Island, of which due registry must be made in the Government Office.
"It is distinctly to be understood, that all natives, in the actual occupancy of lands, in cultivation, or substantially built upon, will be constrained to establish their rights, to the satisfaction of the land officer, and to take out titles, and have the same duly registered.
town
yards, will take place at
"In order to accelerate the establishment, notice is hereby given, that a sale of allotments, having a water frontage of yards, and running back Macao on the instant, by which time, it is hoped, plans, exhibiting the water front of the town, will be prepared.
"Persons purchasing town lots will be entitled to purchase suburban or country lots of square acres each, and will be permitted, for the present, to choose their own sites, subject to the approval of the Government of the Island.
"No run of water to be diverted from its course without permission of the Government.
(4
Macao, 1st May, 1841."
[Hongkong Gazette, 1st and 15th May, 1841.]
(Signed),
"CHARLES ELLIOT."
On the 7th June, 1841, a Notice under the hand of Sir CHARLES ELLIOT was advertised of the proposed sale of the annual quit rents of 100 lots of land with water frontage and of 100 town or suburban lots, as follows:--
PUBLIC NOTICE OF 7TH JUNE, 1841.
"Notice is hereby given, that a sale of the annual quit rent of 100 lots of land having water frontage will take place at Hongkong, on Saturday, the 12th instant, as also of 100 town or suburban lots. The dimensions of the respective lots will be specified and defined on the spot by the Com- manding Officer of Engineers, to whom parties are referred for further particulars.
1
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
xi
"The titles will be delivered on payment of the rent, and the minimum value of the buildings to be erected on the lots, and the period allowed for erection, will also be then declared.
(Signed),
CHARLES ELLIOT,
Chief Superintendent,
14
Macao, 7th June, 1841."
charged with the Government of Hongkong.
The sale advertised for the 12th was postponed to the 14th June, 1841, when it had been found impossible to put up the number of lots (200) as advertised in the Government Advertisement of the 7th of that month, and only 50 lots having a sea frontage of 100 feet each, or nearly so, were offered for sale, and it will be observed, from the following copy of the terms of that sale, that not only was the frontage not defined, but the depth from the sea to the road (the present Queen's Road), was stated to necessarily vary considerably, and that the parties, (intending purchasers), would have the opportunity of observing the extent for themselves.
TERMS OF SALE ON 14TH June, 1841.
"1. Upon a careful examination of the ground, it has been found impossible to put up the number of lots named in the Government Advertisement of the 7th instant, and only 50 lots, having a sea frontage of 100 feet each, can at present be offered for sale. These lots will all be on the seaward side of the road. Lots on the land side of it, and hill and suburban lots in general, it will yet require some time to mark out.
"2. Each lot will have a sea frontage of 100 feet, nearly. The depth from the sea to the road will necessarily vary considerably. The actual extent of each lot as nearly as it has been possible to ascertain it will be declared on the ground. And parties will also have the opportunity of observing the extent for themselves.
"B. The biddings are to be for annual rate of quit rent, and shall be made in pounds sterling, the dollar in all payments to be computed at the rate of 4s. 4d. The upset price will be £10 for each lot, the biddings to advance by 10s.
"4. Each lot having been knocked down to the highest bidder, he will receive an acknowledgment that he is the purchaser of the lot; and this acknowledgment will be exchanged for a more formal title, as soon as the precise measurement and registration of the lots shall be completed.
"5. Upon delivery of the titles, the purchasers will be called on to pay the rent for the first year reckoning from the date of sale.
6. They will also be required to erect upon each lot a building of the appraised value of $1,000 or to incur upon the land an outlay to that amount, within a period of six months from the date of sale. As security for the performance of this engagement a deposit of $500 shall be paid into the hands of the Treasurer to the Superintendents within one week from the day of sale, the deposit repayable as soon as an equal amount shall have been expended. Non-compliance with these terms will incur forfeiture of the deposit and allotment.
66
(Signed), J. ROBERT MORRISON,
Acting Secretary and Treasurer to the
Superintendents of Trade."
Sir CHARLES ELLIOT's object respecting the disposition of the Crown Lands, pending the pleasure of Her Majesty's Government, appears in a letter addressed by him, immediately after the first land sale, to Messrs. JARDINE, MATHESON & Co. and Messrs. DENT & Co., as follows:-
66.
·MACAO, 17th June, 1841.
"GENTLEMEN, Having had under my consideration the particulars of the first sale of lots in Hongkong on the 14th instant, I am of opinion that I shall be consulting the best interests of the establishment in making immediate public declaration of my purpose to move Her Majesty's Govern- ment, either to pass the lands in fee simple for one or two years purchase at the late rates, or to charge them in future at no more than a nominal quit rent, if that tenure continue to obtain.
"My own object respecting the disposal of lands, pending the pleasure of Her Majesty's Govern- ment, was, to secure to firms and all other persons, British and Foreigners, having permanent interests in the country, sufficient space for th necessities, at moderate rates, with as little competition as might enable parties to accommodate emselves according to their respective wants.
xii
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
"I feel assured, upon attentive reflection, that steady adherence to this rule will be found most conducive to the well understood interests of the establishment, and to the fair claims of persons on the spot. Parties falling within the description I have specified, not yet supplied with lots, will soon be in a situation to accommodate themselves.
}
"May I request you, Gentlemen, to circulate this letter.-I have, &c.,
"Messrs. JARDINE, MATHESON & Co., and Messrs. DENT & Co."
[Hongkong Gazette, June 25th, 1855.]
(Signed),
CHARLES ELLIOT.
It would appear from the following Government Notification that in the interval between the sale of 14th June, 1841, and the 15th October following, it was determined to sell lots of land for building purposes at fixed rates of annual rental without public competition.
GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION of 15th October, 1841.
"1. With reference to the Public Notice and declaration under date the 1st May, 1841, it is now found desirable that persons applying for lots of land for the purpose of building upon, should be at once accommodated upon terms which will be made known to them by application in person to the Land Officer.
"Hongkong, 15th October, 1841."
(Signed), A. R. JOHNSTON, Deputy Superintendent charged with the Government of the Island of Hongkong.
The terms of sale referred to in this Notification were the average rate of rental realised at the sale on the 14th June, 1841, and at the rate of £20 per annum per quarter acre for Town Inland Lots and £5 per quarter acre for Suburban Inland Lots.
Owing to the uncertain description of the lots sold, the claims made for allotments of land, the alteration, curtailment and enlargement of boundaries by the making of new roads, and the uncertain tenure upon which the land was to be held, difficulties began to arise in the following year, when the then Governor Sir HENRY POTTINGER issued a Notification as follows:--
GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION OF 22ND MARCH, 1842.
"His Excellency Sir HENRY POTTINGER, Bart., Her Britannic Majesty's Plenipotentiary, &c., deems it expedient to intimate to all persons interested in the subject, that it is his intention to appoint very shortly, a Committee consisting of not less than three members, to investigate any claim that may yet be pending, regarding allotted locations of ground of whatever description and finally to define and mark off the limits of all locations that have yet been sold or granted upon any other
terms.
"The Committee will likewise definitely fix the direction, breadth, &c., &c., of the "Queen's" and all other public roads, within the settlement, and will be empowered to order the immediate removal of any encroachments that may be found to have been unauthorizedly made upon them, the expense of such removals being chargeable to the individuals, to whom the locations, in which they have been made belong.
"The Committee will further be instructed to turn its attention to the examination of the best points for laying down new lines of roads, beyond those that have already been marked off, with a view of providing locations, to meet the demands that may be expected from the rapidly increasing population of the Colony, both European and Native; and any suggestions that individuals may wish to offer on this part of the Committee's proceedings will receive from it the fullest consideration, but it is at the same time expressly notified that no purchases of ground by private persons, from natives formerly or now in possession, will be recognized or confirmed unless the previous sauction of the constituted authorities shall have been obtained, it being the basis of the footing on which the Island of Hongkong has been taken possession of, and is to be held pending the Queen's Royal and Gracious Commands, that the proprietory of the soil is vested and appertains solely to the Crown. On the same principle, the reclaiming of land beyond high water mark, must be deemed an infringement on the Royalties of Her Majesty, and it is therefore positively prohibited by any private persons.
GOD SAVE THE QUEEN.
igned),
HENRY POTTINGER,
(C
Hongkong, Government House, this 22nd March, 1842
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
xiii
The Land Committee was appointed on the 29th March, 1842, by the Governor, as follows:-
With reference to the Notification dated on the 22nd instant, the following gentlemen are appointed a Committee to carry into effect the objects therein described.
Major MALCOLM.
With the sanction of Major-General Captain MEIK, H.M.'s 49th Foot.
BURRELL, C.B.,
With the sanction of Capt. Sir THOMAS
HERBERT, K.C.B.,
CC
Lieut. SARGENT..
R. WOOSNAM, Esq.
Mr. PASCO, 2nd Master of H.M.'s Ship " Blenheim."
Captain MYLIUS, Land Officer, will attend the Committee for the purpose of giving effect to its proceedings, by laying down the necessary Land Marks, Boundaries, Roads, &c., &c.
"The Committee will report to Government any cases in which they are of opinion that the native Chinese should be remunerated for ground which was in their possession previous to the occu- pation of the Island by Her Majesty's forces, and which may have been appropriated, as well as the amount of remuneration.
"The Committee will select the most eligible spots for building landing places, will define the limits of the Cantonments, or locations for Officers, near the different Barracks; will likewise fix the extent of ground to be preserved for the Naval Depôt, and for Dock Yards, including spots for one or more Patent Slips which it is understood are likely to be erected by Companies or individuals.
"It being the intention of Government to form a watering place for the shipping, hereafter, Committee will select the most eligible spot with a running stream of good water for the purpose.
(Signed),
HENRY POTTINGER.
the
"Dated at Hongkong, Government House, 29th day of March, 1842."
This Committee appears to have granted several lots of land but made no report upon the subject.
.
At this time sales of lots had begun to take place from one holder to another, difficulties had already arisen as to the liabilities of the purchasers to the Crown, and as no system of registration had then been adopted the purchasers were not known except to the seller of the lot. No Lease or other deed of grant of the lots was issued to the purchaser, the "Grant" of the lot being simply an entry in a book kept by the Land Officer shewing only the name of the person purchasing and the side measure- ments of the lot purchased.
As a remedy for these difficulties in the future, and to provide for the registration of sales, the following Government Notification of the 2nd May, 1842, signed by the Land Officer was issued :--
"GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION of 2nd May, 1842.
"With a view to the prevention of future misunderstanding and difficulties, His Excellency Sir HENRY POTTINGER, Bart., is pleased to direct that no sales of land are to be made by the holders of Grants to other parties except with the knowledge of the Land Officer and that any sales that may have been made, or may be made in future, unless registered in the Land Office shall be held to be invalid.
"Purchasers of grants from the individuals before holding them are to understand distinctly that they will be under the same liabilities to Government as the parties from whom they purchase.
By Order,
"Land Office, Hongkong, 2nd May, 1842."
(Signed),
GEO. F. MYLIUS, Land Officer.
Two weeks, only, afterwards, the appointment of Land Officer was temporarily abolished, and further grants of land were prohibited, and on the 27th May, 1842, a "Land and Road Inspector" was appointed.
The following are extracts from his instructions with reference to Crown Lands, the continuance of the prohibition against further grants of land, the prevention of encroachments on unappropriated lands or upon roads, and the registration of the sales and transfers of land in his Office.
xiv
:
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
"EXTRACT FROM INSTRUCTIONS OF 27TH MAY, 1842.
"As the existing prohibition against further grants of land is to continue in full force pending the receipt of commands from Her Majesty's Government, it will not even be necessary for you to bring any applications on that subject to the notice of the Deputy Superintendent who will be charged with the Civil Government of the Island during the absence of His Excellency Sir HENRY POTTINGER, Bart.
"You are to take the utmost care to prevent any encroachments on the unappropriated lands in any part of this Island or on the roads, whether completed, or now in progress, and should anything of the kind come to your knowledge, you will, whatever be the plea or pretence assigned, instantly stop the work and report the circumstance to the Deputy Superintendent.
"Ground will probably, however, be required for the erection of Barracks, and other Military Buildings on different parts of the Island, and regarding it you will receive directions from the Deputy Superintendent.
"You will register in your office all sales and transfers of land, in conformity with the Notifica- tion issue by the Land Officer on the 2nd, and published in the Friend of China and Hongkong Gazette of the 5th instant."
(Signed), J. ROBT. MORRISON,
Acting Secretary and Treasurer.
GRANTS OF LAND UNDER THE CHARTER OF THE COLONY AND HER MAJESTY'S INSTRUCTIONS.
The Island of Hongkong, and its Dependencies, were erected into the "Colony of Hongkong" by Royal Charter bearing date the 5th April, 1843, (or nearly two years after the first Land Sale), and full power and authority is thereby given to the Governor of the Colony for the time being, in the name of Her Majesty and on Her behalf, (but subject nevertheless to such provisions as might be in that respect contained in any Instructions which might from time to time be addressed to him by Her said Majesty) to make and execute, in the name and on the behalf of Her said Majesty, under the Public Seal of the said Colony grants of land to Her said Majesty belonging within the said Colony to private persons for their own use and benefit, or to any persons, bodies politic or corporate, in trust for the public uses of Her said Majesty's Subjects there resident or any of them.
Her Majesty's Instructions also dated the 5th April, 1843, directed to Sir HENRY POTTINGER prescribe with reference to the disposal of further Crown Lands, and the reservation of lands for roads, &c. as follows:-
“And it is Our further Will and pleasure that no such lands shall be sold or let except at public auction; and that at every such auction, the lands to be then sold or let, be put up at a reserved, or minimum price equal to the fair reasonable price and value or annual rent thereof."
"And it is Our pleasure, and We do further direct you to ascertain what particular lands it may be proper to reserve in the said Colony for public roads and other internal communication whether
or as or by water, or as the sites of Towns, Villages, Churches, School-houses or Parsonage-houses, or as places for the interment of the dead, or as places for the future extension of any existing Towns or Villages, or as places fit to be set apart for the recreation and amusement of the inhabitants of any Town or Village, or for promoting the health of such inhabitants or as the sites of quays or landing places, which it may at any future time be expedient to erect, form, or establish on the sea coast, or which it may be desirable to reserve for any other purposes of public convenience, utility, health or enjoyment, and you are to cause such tracts, pieces or parcels of land as may appear best adapted to answer and promote the several public purposes before mentioned, to be distinguished on the public charts of the said Colony, or in some other authentic manner. And it is Our Will and pleasure and We do strictly enjoin and require you that you do not on any account, or on any pretence what- soever, grant, convey or demise to any person or persons, any of the lands so specified, as fit to be reserved as aforesaid, nor permit or suffer any such lands to be occupied by any private person for any private purposes.'
On the 10th April, 1843, the progress of further buildings was ordered to be stopped until final arrangements with reference to the land already sold had been concluded and the Land Officer, (who had then been again appointed), was authorized to take summary measures to prevent encroachments, a Government Notification of that date being issued as follows:-
GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION OF 10TH APRIL, 1843.
"In consequence of instructions recently received from Her Majesty's Government, and until defined regulations can be framed and promulgated grounded upon those instructions, His Excellency Sir HENRY POTTINGER, Bart., K.C.B., &c.. &c., is pleased to notify as follows:-
REPORT FROM LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
XV
"1st. All persons holding land of any denomination on the Island of Hongkong, are hereby required to send in the fullest explanations as well as the proofs they possess of their claims to such land, to the Land Officer with the least possible delay.
"2nd. The Land Officer has been authorized and instructed to prevent the commencement of any further buildings upon, or clearing away of, locations, until final arrangements can be made
The Land Officer has also been authorised and instructed to take summary measures in concert with the Chief Magistrate, to put a stop to all buildings that may be in progress on locations of whatever denomination, where the explanation or proof submitted, may appear to him to be at variance with his present instructions and also in cases where the explanation and proofs now called for may be delayed beyond a reasonable time.
"3rd. The Land Officer has further been authorised and instructed to summarily prevent the pro- gress of all buildings, on locations which may, in his opinion, encroach on the present, or any future line of roads or streets, and to oblige all persons to confine themselves to the exact dimensions of the Lots which were originally allotted to them.
"4th. It has been repeatedly intimated that the terms and tenure of holding all Lands on the Island of Hongkong, were to depend solely upon the pleasure and commands of Her Majesty's Go- vernment and the information called for in this notification is required before such terms and tenure can be announced to the public.
By Order,
Hongkong, Government House, 10th April, 1843.”
(Signed),
RICHARD WOOSNAM.
In August, 1843, the Governor having received instructions from Lord STANLEY, then Her Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for the Colonies, directing him to abstain from alienating any of the land on the Island for any time of greater length than might be necessary to induce and enable the tenants to erect substantial buildings, &c., and refusing to sanction any such grants as had already been made, but with a promise that an enquiry should be instituted into the equitable claims of all holders of land to a confirmation, either permanent or temporary, of their titles, issued the following Government Notification :---
GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION OF 21ST AUgust, 1843.
"His Excellency the Governor having had under his careful consideration the instructions which he has received from Her Majesty's Government on the subject of Crown Lands in this Colony is pleased to publish the following extracts of a despatch from Her Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for the Colonies.
"Sir HENRY POTTINGER is to abstain from alienating any of the land on the island, either in perpetuity or for any time of greater length than may be necessary to induce and enable the tenants to erect substantial buildings,' &c.
"But with the general prohibition against the alienation of Crown Lands, and with the general refusal to sanction any such grants as may have already been made, Lord STANLEY would connect a promise that immediately on the establishment of a regular Government in the place an enquiry should be instituted, by some competent and impartial authority, into the equitable claims of all Holders of Land, to a confirmation either permanent or temporary, of their titles so far as they could be confirmed consistently with a just regard to the interests of Society at large.'
"With advertence to the principle laid down in the above extracts it will be understood that Her Majesty's Government do not recognize the validity of any grants, or sales of Land that may have been made or may have taken place under any authority whatsoever previous to the exchange of the ratification of the Treaty upon which event the Island of Hongkong became a bona fide possession of the British Crown, and from which day the payment of rents derivable from such Land will only be held to commence.
“In obedience to the intimation conveyed in one of the preceding extracts, His Excellency the Governor in Council is pleased to appoint,-
A. G. GORDON, Esq., Land Officer, &c.
Captain D'HAVILLAND, H.M.'s 55th Regt., Assistant Surveyor, and
CHARLES EDWARD STEWART, Esq., Treasurer and Financial Secretary to Government. to be a Committee assisted by RICHARD BURGASS, Esq., Legal Adviser to Government, to enquire into the equitable claims of all Holders of Lands, to define the classes to which particular lots shall henceforward belong, as well as their future annual rent, and to arrange for the disposal of further lots regarding which Her Majesty's instructions prescribe:- And it is Our further Will and pleasure that no such lands shall be sold or let, except at public auction; and that at every such auction, the lands to be then sold or let, be put up at a reserved, or minimum price equal to the fair reasonable price and value or annual rent thereof.""
1
xvi
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
On the 4th January, 1844, the last mentioned Committee reported that the sale of the Marine Lots. ·gave an average annual rental of nearly £350 per acre, and looking to the fact that this was the result of a public sale, and that the purchasers were under the impression that the time for which the land was disposed of was unlimited, recommended that all the Marine Lots hitherto sold or granted should be recognised and confirmed for a period of 75 years, excepting those which had been abandoned or forfeited, and considering that, in some instances, the rate of annual rent at £20 per quarter acre at which Inland Town Lots had been sold was too low, and in others, too high, further recommended that all lots, other than Marine, that had hitherto been granted or occupied should be classified and rated according to a scale determined with reference to locality.
On the 13th January, 1844, the Committee recommended a system of classification of lots (other than Marine) for rental as follows:--
:
:
No. of Classes
At the rate of per acre per annum.
1
2
£160. 0.0 120 0.0
3
100. 0.0
4
80. 0.0
5
60. 0.0
6
40. 0.0
7
20. 0.0
8
12. 0.0
9
6. 0.0
10
3. 0.0
11
2. 0.0
12
1. 0.0
13
0.10.0
On the 28th February, 1844, an Ordinance, (No. 3 of 1844), was passed for the registration by the Land Officer, in the Land Office, of all dealings with land, or its disposition by deed or will, and providing for the priorities of registered documents, the forms of registration by Memorial, and deposit of deeds and documents for safe custody.
This Ordinance is in force at the present day without alteration or amendnient.
In the same year (1844) a large number of Chinese had come over to the Colony and taken possession of land for erecting their dwellings and carrying on their business, without any grant or permission.
To check this the then Governor Sir JOHN F. DAVIS issued a proclamation directing their removal within a reasonable time as follows:-
GOVERNMENT PROCLAMATION OF 21ST OCTOBER, 1844.
"Whereas a great number of Chinese and others have, without permission and in direct opposition to Law and Custom, settled themselves upon the Queen's Road and at divers places along the coast of this Island, and have there erected mat-houses, and in some instances even wooden houses, wherein they live and carry on business without paying any rent to the Crown for the land so occupied.
"This is to give notice, that the Surveyor General of this Colony has received my commands to give the aforesaid persons notice to remove themselves and structures within a reasonable time, and at his discretion and in default of their doing so to eject thein and remove their mat sheds and other structures.
"This proclamation to be translated into Chinese and circulated throughout the Island.
CC GOD SAVE THE QUEEN.
(Signed),
J. F. DAVIS, Governor, &c.
"(
Victoria, Hongkong, 21st October, 1844."
[Friend of China & Hongkong Gazette, October 23rd, 1844.]
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
xvii
At this time also it was found that the lot holders had encroached on Crown Land, and on the space set apart for streets, by building balconies and verandahs outside the limits of their lots. The removal of these buildings was directed by the Governor and the following Government Notification of the 19th November, 1844, to that effect was published:-
GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION OF 19TH NOVEMBER, 1844.
"As it has come to the knowledge of His Excellency the Governor, that persons have encroached on the property of the Crown, and on the space set apart for Streets, by erecting Buildings and con- structing Balconies and Verandahs, extending beyond the limits of the Lots held by them on Lease: His Excellency has given instructions to have the encroachments removed; and warns all persons, that no permission will in future be granted to any one to exceed the Boundaries of his Lot, on any pretence whatever.
"By Order,
(Signed),
FREDERICK W. A. BRUCE, Colonial Secretary.
"Victoria, Hongkong, 19th November, 1844." In January, 1846, however, Government permission was given for the construction of Verandahs projecting beyond the boundaries of Lots over any Public Road or Street within the City of Victoria, in accordance with a plan, open for inspection at the Surveyor General's Office; and from time to time since that date regulations have been made for the more solid construction of Verandahs with the view of preventing the spread of fire, but no provision has ever been made in the Crown Lease for these erections which are, to this day, allowed by Surveyor General's licence. The consequence is that the purchaser of a house, in hundreds of cases, acquires no other title or estate in the exterior parts of the building he purchases than what would pass by his Deed of Assignment as an easement, if such an easement attached to his holding, which, under the Governor's instructions for the disposal of Land, appears to the Commissioners to be somewhat doubtful.
In consequence of complaints arising in the year 1847 from the Landowners of the Colony in regard to the land tenure of the Colony, and the high Crown Rents, it was, after much consideration, represented first by Governor Sir JOHN DAVIS and afterwards by Governor Sir GEORGE BONHAM, that the extension of the term of 75 years on which the lands of this Colony were then held, or the grant of the lands in perpetuity, would be accepted as a boon by the merchants, and Governor Sir GEORGE BONHAM suggested (Despatch No. 64 Financial of 26th August 1848) that he might be authorized to extend the term of tenure from 75 years to any other that Her Majesty's Government might approve of, and mentioned that at Singapore the term is for 999 years, and that the intention there was to convey to the landholders all the advantages that attach to a permanent grant, without saddling them with the inconvenience sometimes attending the tenure of real property.
In reply to that Despatch, Earl GREY stated (Despatch No. 766 of 4th December 1848) that fully appreciating the difficulty in proposing any plan, short of the actual reduction of the rents, which would prove entirely satisfactory to the general body of Landowners, he was inclined to concur in the opinion that to extend the term of the existing leases would be the most expedient course to adopt. Earl GREY then authorized the Governor to take the necessary measures for granting these leases in virtual perpetuity for the term of 999 years. Thereupon the following Government Notification was published:-
GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION OF 3RD MARCH, 1849.
"It is hereby notified that, under instructions from Her Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for the Colonies, all Crown Leases heretofore granted for a term of 75 years may be extended for a further term of 924 years.
"All Tenants of the Crown who may be desirous of availing themselves of the above concession will, on application at the Surveyor General's Office, receive the directions necessary to enable them to obtain a prolongation of their respective Leases in conformity with the above instructions.
By Order,
"Colonial Office, Hongkong, 3rd March, 1849."
•
(Signed),
W. CAINE, Colonial Secretary.
:
xviii
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
In the year 1849 the tenure of the land of the Colony was again the subject of consideration, and a Committee, consisting of the then Colonial Treasurer, Surveyor General, Assistant Commissary General, and two Merchants, were appointed to report upon the landed tenure generally, and to represent individual cases in which the amount of rent paid seemed extravagant. Another subject offered to the Committee at this time for its consideration and opinion was whether it would not.be for the interest of the Colony to reserve in all future Land Sales a portion only of the price in the form of rental, the competition being made to turn upon the premium offered.
In their joint letter of report dated 18th May, 1850, the Committee on this occasion represented the difficulty, which already then existed, of disposing of landed property in consequence of the inability of lessees to transfer a subdivision of their lots. In many cases several houses were, at that time, built upon one lot and it was considered convenient for the owner to dispose of a portion or portions of it which, under the prevailing system, he was unable to effect. The Committee then recommended that such sales and transfers be permitted and fresh titles granted by Government, stating that the restrictions then felt would thus be removed and an enhanced value be given to property in the Colony.
Upon this subject the then Governor Sir SAMUEL G. BONHAM took the opinion of Mr. STterling, the Attorney General, whose opinion dated August, 1850, was as follows:-
"The Crown Lessee unless prohibited by his lease may make sub-leases; this being so, house property is similarly circumstanced here, as in all towns in England.
"If in any case the Crown be willing to adopt the under-tenant as its immediate lessee it can do so, (supposing there be no liens or encumbrances attaching to the head lease), in its own discretion, by accepting a surrender in writing of the head lease, and then granting two leases of the original lot as apportioned by the two tenants, but in doing so or in any other way interfering with the title created by the first lease, the danger will arise of interfering with the securities and remedies of unregistered encumbrances or creditors having or about to obtain executions."
"August, 1850."
(Signed), "PAUL STERLING.
In the remarks of Governor BONHAM upon this question to the Secretary of State (Despatch No. 85, Financial, of the 29th August, 1850), he states that, in his opinion, it would be well that parties should be allowed to dispose of portions of their properties, as recommended by the Committee; but thought the concession might be open to much abuse in cases where any party having a house erected on a large lot of ground might be desirous of getting rid of a part of the ground to a man of straw because it was useless to him, while the individual to whom it was sold having no property in the Colony might quit it leaving the Government without any means of enforcing its just claim.
In the Despatch of Earl GREY to Governor BONHAM of 2nd January, 1851, acknowledging the receipt of Governor BONHAM'S Despach of the 29th of August preceding, Earl GREY communicated the conclusions at which he had arrived, after a careful consideration of the papers before him, and as regarded the system of selling Crown Lands to the highest bidder of an annual rent stated he was decidedly of opinion that, in future, biddings for Crown Lands should not be in the form of an advance of rent, but that any such property should be offered for lease at a moderate rent to be determined by the Crown Surveyor and that the competition should be in the amount to be paid down as a premium for the lease at the rent so reserved by parties desiring to obtain it.
And on the question of affording Crown Lessees the power of alienating portions of their lands Earl GREY stated his opinion to be that such a measure, if properly guarding against the inconvenien- ces suggested by Governor BONHAM, and the Attorney General, would be very desirable, and it was a subject which he was quite prepared to entrust to the discretion of the Local Government.
In the inclosures accompanying the last mentioned Committee's Report, many references are made to a Parliamentary China Blue Book of 1847 which would seem, from the references made to it, to have dealt exhaustively with the disposition of Crown Lands in this Colony, but the Commissioners regret that they have been unable to obtain a copy in the Colony as it might have afforded them some very valuable information.
}
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
XIX
In June, 1875, another Commission was appointed consisting of the Attorney General, the Acting Treasurer, Mr. PHINEAS RYRIE, Mr. HENRY LOWCOCK and the Surveyor General to inquire into the alleged magnitude of Crown Rents in various parts of the City owing to the complaints which had, from time to time, been made to the Government by the holders of Crown Lands in the less populous parts of the Colony, that the rents were out of proportion to the real value of the lands, so that they could not turn the lands to profitable account, or to advantage, to the injury of the complainants and to the hindrance of the general progress of the Colony.
The Commissioners, however, reported that no reduction of Crown Rents would appreciably affect the diminished value of property in certain portions of the City.
These complaints have, however, with returning prosperity ceased, and in no single instance has any complaint, as to excessive Crown Rents, been made to the Commissioners.
The sales of Crown Land which have taken place since the year 1869, have been at a fixed annual rent with an upset price, the highest bidder above the upset price being declared the purchaser at the fixed annual rent.
ACREAGE OF HONGKONG.
The acreage of Hongkong has been estimated to be as follows:-
Acres
cultivated.
Acres
uncultivated.
Total.
Hongkong (exclusive of Victoria,)
406
....
16,796
17,202
Victoria,
Kowloon,....
412
1,309
900
1,721
Stonecutters' Island,
192
192
Totals,.......
818
18,297
20,015
These figures, however, are only estimate in so far as they relate to the cultivated area, and the inquiries of the Commissioners would lead them to believe that the lands actually in possession of villagers, squatters, and trespassers, &c. greatly exceed the estimate.
NUMBERS AND RENTALS OF LEASED LOTS AND THE HOUSES STANDING UPON THEM.
The following shows the number and description of leased lots with their rental as existing on the 25th December, 1886 :-
Marine Lots, (for 999 years),
No.
Annual Rental.
276
$62,143.69
Inland Lots, (,, 999 ),
947
71,019.63
??
Quarry Bay, Marine, (for 999 years),
1
2,534.44
Victoria Farm,
Rural Building,
(" 75
),
42
1,067.88
{" 75
""
),
43
3,013.01
>>
Sowkewan Lots,
Stanley, Inland,
Aberdeen, Marine, (
Inland, ( 999
Apleecbow, Marine, (,, 999
Inland, (,, 999 (,, 999
")
999
5
579.16
12.
>>
),
56
329.36
25
},
19
142.26
19.
),
19
186.84
""
).
91
1,087.50
(,, 75
""
};
1
1.00
Kowloon, Marine, (,, 999
Inland, (,, 75
""
},
15
10,748.85
),
113
3,270.35
Farm,
(
999
>>
23
""
},
9
240.37
""
Garden, (" 14
Hunghom, Inland,
),
68
2,017.32
7,5
),
143
1,139.00
Total,................
1,847
$159,520.66
ཏཾ - བལྟ
XX
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Resumed Lots paying no rent, but the rentals of which are now being adjusted for payment
Inland Lot, No. 51,
畿
""
No. 136,
No. 134,
No. 135, ...........
19
No. 139,
>>
Total annual rental for 1886,.
1882,......
>>
Increase in 4 Years,.........
492.70
287.35
208.98
240.33
3.06
1,232.42
159,520.66
$160,753.08
$148,450.87
$ 12,302.21
The total number of acres held under leases, (excluding encroachments which are not ascertained), was on the same day, (25th December, 1886), 1,118.
The houses which have been built on these lots, and upon which rates have been paid for 1886,
are:
In Victoria,
In Kowloon,
•
In the Villages (including the Peak),
Total,
.7,318
1,161
..1,512
..9,991
The estimate of the population living in these houses at the end of the year 1886, amounts to 157,400, being an average of 18 people for each house in Victoria, 13 for each house at Kowloon and 7 for each house in the Hongkong Villages, but the Commissioners have reason to believe that the numbers are greatly under-estimated.
There are also a large number of houses and dwellings erected by squatters and on a few of the leased lots, and also a very large floating population which pay no rates, and these are not included in the above.
+
DIVISION OF THE LOTS INTO SECTIONS AND SUB-SECTIONS AND
TITLES TO LAND.
Owing probably to the objections raised by the Governor, and the Attorney General, in 1849, before referred to, while it was considered advisable to allow transfers of sections and sub-sections of lots to be registered it was apparently considered desirable to keep the original holder, or his assignee who was owner of the Remaining Portion of the Lot, responsible for the whole of the Crown Rent.
Great difficulties have arisen in consequence, the lots have been built upon to the extent of many houses upon one lot, all owned by different people, as section holders, sub-section or section of sub- section holders; in great numbers of cases no proportion of Crown Rent was allotted on the first carving out of the sections, and consequently none on the carving out of the sub-sections or sections of sub-sections. Streets have been made over and across several lots disregarding the line of boundaries of the lots as sold and held upon lease, and very many houses have been built along the line of street frontage so that the front part of the house is on one lot, the middle of the house on another and the rear upon another, and the owner of one house would properly speaking have to pay proportions of Crown Rent to the owners of the Remaining Portions of three different lots. In very
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
xxi
many cases the line of the lease boundary runs through the centre of a house, in many others across the house, sometimes obliquely, in others at right angles, and the titles are often most complicated in regard to different portions of the same house, the Remaining Portion owners of the original lots find it so difficult as to render the recovery of the due proportion of Crown Rent so impracticable, that they ultimately prefer to pay the whole Crown Rent without any attempt at recovery, and thus the owner of one portion of a lot has become burdened with the Crown Rent apportionable upon another portion of the same lot. In other cases where there is no Remaining Portion owner, or where, as in many instances, the Remaining Portion is left as part of a roadway or passage way (some of the lots, as Inland Lot No. 8 comprising as many as 5 separate private streets) over which the owner of each house has a right of way, the Remaining Portion owner, by death, or absence, ceases to pay the rent of the lot, the Remaining Portion is an unsaleable property, and the Crown Rent ceases to be paid, a section holder to prevent forfeiture has to pay the whole Crown Rent without power of recovery from the owners of the other portions of the lot, as it is impossible to fix the due proportion of the Crown Rent recover- able from the other owners.
At the present time there are 5 lots, representing an annual rental of $1,233, which were re entered upon by the Government in October, 1885, for non-payment of Crown Rent, upon which 137 houses in the most central part of the city are standing, owned by 45 different people. This question still remains unsettled, although most of the section owners are willing to pay more than their due proportion of Crown Rent to get new leases, but all are unwilling, principally because they believe themselves to be unable, to collect proportions from other owners, particularly as no house on the borders of the lots stands within its lease boundary. In all these cases the Remaining Portion owners, who have been kept on the Rent Roll, have not a vestige of interest remaining in the lots, the original leaseholders being dead, without representatives or known estate, and the intermediate assignees, when there were Remaining Portions, having disposed of all their interest, without leaving any Remaining Portion owner.
It is true that each portion of a lot is liable to the whole of the Crown Rent, but in dealing with a number of people it is impossible to make one pay for the whole without creating, under all the circumstances of the case, an intolerable hardship upon some, to the profit of others, which should not be allowed.
The Commissioners have annexed to this their Report several tracings produced before them by the Deputy Land Officer, shewing specimens of the manner in which various lots have been divided and sub-divided, and of other complexities which the commissioners think it would be desirable to remove.
In connection with this subject the Commissioners have also appended to their Report a Petition to the Legislative Council, signed by all the Solicitors in the Colony and supported by several of the leading inhabitants, transmitting a Bill for dealing with this question, dated January, 1885. It is therein alleged that a very large number of Titles to land in the Colony have fallen into a most complicated and entangled condition, and to such an extent that there are comparatively very few titles in the Colony which the Court could force upon an unwilling purchaser.
These complications, they say, have arisen from a number of causes, viz., the exigencies of street building; the ignorance, until within recent years, which prevailed in the system of granting leases and making assignments to families and even partnership firms in an assumed unincorporate title which cannot be recognised by the Courts, and to which no legal Estate could pass; the difficulty, amounting in many cases to the impossibility, of finding in whose custody the deeds are, because no Remaining Portion of the lot has been kept, the whole lot in those cases having been divided into sections and subsections without a Remaining Portion; the number of owners who take or send their title deeds, relating to the title of others as well as to their own, out of the Colony to the mainland, to India, to
xxii
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Persia, and to England; the great number of documents of title which have been destroyed by fire, or lost in transit from one place to another; the number of deeds executed under Powers of Attorney, the deeds remaining and the Powers of Attorney either lost or destroyed as useless; and the exten- sions of the further term of 924 years having been, in years past, granted in many cases to people on an erroneous representation of ownership.
Owing to these circumstances the sale of land with a marketable title is in the majority of cases an absolute impossibility, and unless the purchaser is a willing purchaser, or intends to keep his pro- perty in his own hands and descendants for a long term of years, the sale of landed property in the Colony has become to a great extent an impracticable undertaking.
The Commissioners would also refer to recent Judgments of the Supreme Court which they have appended to this their Report, viz., Ow Yeong Kwon Sek v. Tang A Lok, which shows a state of things which they believe not to have been uncommon; Lo On v. Lee Foo Wing, which shows that possessory rights, without registration, have been under certain circumstances acknowledged; Chun Yik Chung v. Stephens, which enters fully into the original mode of marking out boundaries; and The Official Administrator of the Estate of Leung Kwong Chi v. Ho Yung relating to land at Apli- chau, showing that leases have been granted to fictitious persons, a course which in the earlier days of the Colony the Commissioners are assured was not infrequent.
With reference to limitations of Title, and the Ordinance to that effect put forward by the Soli- citors, it appears that the Ordinance was considered objectionable on the ground that it recognised possessory rights, without registration, which was considered by some undesirable. The Commissioners are of opinion, however, that with some modifications it might be advisable to adopt some of the suggestions with regard to the new Leases which may be granted, and also with regard to the invest- igation of Titles for the purpose of granting such new Leases; but a better opinion could be given upon this subject by those who will have the opportunity of working out the new arrangements.
In view of the Instructions issued to the Governor that no land shall be disposed of otherwise than by Auction, the question arises whether the Governor, in granting extensions of lots to Leaseholders for the purpose of adding to their holdings, or of rectifying or modifying boundaries, or in order to effect reclamations, or otherwise; the Registrar General in granting licences for squatting on Crown Lands, and the Surveyor General in granting licences for easements upon Crown Land, have been justified in doing so by such Instructions, and whether such grants are not therefore void in law ab initio.
No copies of Instructions have been kept in the Land Office, and where the sanction of the Secretary of State has been applied for and received, (if that were considered sufficient under the power given to the Governor by the Crown), no reference to such sanction has been made in the grant, nor has there been any such sanction recorded in the Land Office, and although a great deal of reference has been made in the Colony to missing Powers of Attorney no reference has been made by any one, apparently, to the powers of the Governor, the Registrar General, or the Surveyor General, in dealing with land or rights connected therewith from the very foundation of the Colony up to and inclusive of the present time. Everybody seems to have thought, including the authorities themselves, that the Governor, as representing the Queen, had the power to dispose of Crown Lands in any way he thought fit, and that the Surveyor General as Commissioner of Crown Lands, and the Registrar General as delegated by the Governor, had full power to grant licences affecting interests in such Lands. In fact all parties seem to have considered that, in dealing with a public Officer, they were in fact dealing with the Crown, and that the Crown was in fact bound by the action of its Officers in respect to Land, even if the Governor exceeded the powers which were delegated solely to him and the other Officers had no powers conferred upon them to deal with land, or with interests arising therefrom, by the Crown at all.
•
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
•
THE OCCUPANCY OF LAND IN THE VILLAGES OTHER THAN
UNDER CROWN LEASES.
xxiii
In addition to the land which has been granted on lease for 999 years or 75 years, there are other descriptions of holdings throughout the Colony.
1. The original villagers upon the Island at the time of its cession, or their descendants, a Village Rent Roll of numbers and rents of houses, but not of names, being kept until quite recently by the Registrar General, and now by the Treasurer, who collects rents, rates and taxes from all.
2. The squatters licensed by the Registrar General from year to year under a squatter's licence.
3. Trespassers, who although not licensed, yet have built several hundreds of dwellings on undisposed of Crown Land in the outlying districts, many of whom are assessed for rates and taxes.
The Crown Lands are under the control of the Surveyor General; the lands occupied by the original Villagers were, until very recently, entirely under the supervision of the Registrar General, who collected their annual Village rents, and the supervision is now divided between the Registrar General and the Treasurer, the latter of whom now collects the rents; the lands occupied by squatters are or were under the control of the Registrar General, but the rents, rates and taxes are collected by the Treasurer; the woods and forests, which are now growing and becoming every year of greatly increased value, are under the control of the Superintendent of the Botanical and Afforestation De-
partment.
There are other lands also upon which grass cutters have been allowed to cut and take away the growth of herbage, and people who keep cattle and goats have been permitted to let them graze. These lands are principally under the control of the Surveyor General, but are partly under the supervision of the Botanical Superintendent for the protection of the young trees, neither of whom has a sufficient staff to effectively exercise any but the slightest semblance of control.
The Commissioners are of opinion that the division of the control and supervision of the Crown Lands ainong different departments, where each department is working separately, is mischievo and obstructive to the best interests of the Colony particularly as there can be n, effective control under the circumstances.
Amongst other things also the consequences are, as pointed out by the Registrar General three years ago, that the proper sanitation of the Colony is undoubtedly impracticable if the system of squatting, as at present practised, is any longer continued, on account of the miserable shanties in which these people live, owing to their having no fixity of tenure.
In connexion with the question of trespassing, the Commissioners would refer to a Report made by the Surveyor General, which was laid before them, and which they have appended hereto, and which in their opinion shows the absolute necessity of adopting some measures to prevent the rights of the Crown being encroached upon in the country districts. One of the first things which the Commissioners did, principally in consequence of that Report, was to recommend that trespassing should be put a stop to at once, and a Minute was issued by the Acting Governor on the 8th day of September, 1886, directing the Police to prevent any further trespassing, and, if necessary, to pull down any houses or matsheds that may be erected in spite of their prohibition.
1
RECOMMENDATIONS.
The Commissioners recommend, either:-
(1.) That a Special Commissioner, with Deputies if necessary, be appointed to examine into questions of Title, invested with full power for that purpose by the Crown or by the Legislature, or by both.
1
xxiv
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
(2.) Or that a Crown Land Board be appointed with special powers to deal with all ques-
tions affecting the land of the Colony.
(3.) Or that the Surveyor General should be furnished with much greater powers than he
at present possesses.
(4.) Or that there should be a duly constituted Land Court.
The authority to be constituted could decide, upon inquiry into the merits of each case, what arrangements should be made with Leaseholders, and other than Leaseholders, subject to the Governor's approval, and the approval of the Secretary of State if considered necessary.
The general opinion is that a Crown Land Board should be constituted.
Considerable differences of opinion, however, seem to exist as to what ought to be the powers and authorities of the Crown Land Board, and also with regard to the persons who ought to compose
it.
The Commissioners think, for obvious reasons, it would be most objectionable to have a large Board, but that a Board consisting of three or at most five members would be sufficient, and there are obvious reasons why they should be Government Officials having no personal interest in the disposi- tion of the Crown Lands.'
If the supervision of Crown Lands is to be removed from the Surveyor General, or even if it remains with him, it would be absolutely necessary that the services of one or two Surveyors should be secured in connexion with the survey of Crown Lands who should have no other duties to perform, but these Surveyors should be under the control of the Surveyor General and be responsible to him. Their salaries might be charged to the Crown Land Office. The Commis- sioners in considering their draft Report, and in anticipation of this their Report, have already strongly urged the Government forthwith to obtain the services of at least one Surveyor for this purpose, to be attached to the Surveyor General's Office.
ppended is a statement in which is collated the information already obtained by Mr. SAMPSON for the Commissioners regarding the numbers of squatters houses and land held by them in the different villages, shewing that large quantities of land are held by these people rent free and tax free or on payment of police rates only. Mr. SAMPSON has, as yet, been able to examine into the holdings in 25 villages, and there still remain 30 more villages for his inquiries, but the Commissioners have every reason to believe that in all the other villages in the Colony the same state of things will be found to exist, and it is absolutely necessary that some steps should be adopted, as speedily as possible, to bring the lands now occupied by squatters and others in the villages under effective control. The Commissioners have suggested that Mr. SAMPSON's services should be continued in obtaining this information until he has completed his enquiry throughout all the villages, and that he should report the result from time to time to the Surveyor General, as they are of opinion that the information collected by him now, will prove of very great value hereafter when the Government has to determine what should be done in respect of the villagers, and with respect to any claims made by them to lands or houses in their occupation.
The Commissioners are of opinion that all parties in possession of land should be dealt with equitably and liberally, and that the necessary powers for this purpose should be given to the Crown Land Board, or other authority created to decide upon these questions.
The Commissioners think the only remedy for the confusion which has been pointed out is to permit the assignee of each separate house to surrender his section or sections and to grant him a new Crown Lease with a separate rent to be fixed on equitable terms, and to be paid direct to the Crown. No difficulty can arise with regard to the collection of the Crown Rent, because each house is of very much greater annual value than the Crown Rent.
d
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
XXV
The Commissioners themselves are very strongly of opinion that there should be constituted, at once, a Crown Land Board to whom all applications for Land, or for in any way dealing with Crown property, should in the first instance be submitted; and they are of opinion that there ought to be no more difficulty in dealing with Crown property in this Colony than in dealing with any well managed large estate in England. That, indeed, there ought to be less as there can be no difficulty in obtaining any legislative powers that may be considered necessary or desirable. That the Surveyor General should be the Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. That for the present the Land Officer and the Attorney General should be members of the Board, but that, if the recommendations of the Commissioners are eventually carried out, the Special Commissioner for investigating Titles, or Judge of the Land Court, should be substituted for the Attorney General, and it should be the particular business of the Officers, other than the Surveyor General, to see, in conjunction with him, that the decisions of the Board, when approved by the Governor, are duly carried into effect and that all legal requirements and formalities are complied with. The Commissioners think that there ought to be frequent, say weekly, sittings of the Board in order to dispose of current business. The Commissioners think that such a Board if constituted with the necessary powers, with a good Secretary, and a proper staff, might proceed at once to deal with a great many cases which are at present in a state of entan- glement. Under the present law relating to registration the difficulties as to accepting a surrender are not very great; the chief things that are required in order to accepting a surrender and granting a New Lease, if the Title on the Register is clear, are consent of all parties interested; proofs of possession under the Title, and of identity, and these might be easily provided for by requiring advertisement of application for some fixed time before a surrender is accepted.
If, in addition to this, proceedings by way of scire facias to set aside a Crown Lease were provided for (see Regina v. Hughes L. R. 1 P. C. 81), by making the Leases records of the Court, the Com- missioners think that no wrong could be inflicted upon any one for which there would not be an adequate remedy.
There are, however, many Titles the Commissioners feel sure for which further provision would have to be made either by the appointment of a Special Commissioner or the formation of a Land Court with special powers, and the nature of those special powers the Commissioners think the Crown Land Board would be in a far better position than themselves to suggest after some experience of the nature of the difficulties to be surmounted.
The Commissioners would have to receive, either from the Crown or by Ordinance, greater powers than have been given to the Governor or to the Surveyor General for the purpose of dealing with the land, and the Commissioners think it advisable that some rules should be laid down for their guidance within which they, with the approval of the Governor, should have given them large dis- cretionary powers.
The Commissioners would also recommend that possessory rights, and also claims to easements, should be taken into consideration, as between individuals, where they would be sustained by Law, and even as against the Crown where they could not be so sustained, as far as possible, but the Commissioners would recommend that in the new Registration Ordinance, that they propose should be framed, no rights to Land or easement should be allowed by virtue of mere possession, or user, unless they appear in the Register. These claims are generally founded either on force or on fraud, and the Commissioners conceive no harm can be done to any person by refusing to recognise claims which are not founded upon matters of record.
The Commission recommend that trespassing should be entirely put a stop to, and the system of squatting abolished.
With regard to original holders of Land, at the time of the occupation of the Colony, their assignees and descendants who can prove their claims, the Commissioners consider that great liberality
=
:
xxvi
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
should be shown to them by the Government, even to the extent of granting them leases for the remaining portion of 999 years from the foundation of the Colony.
With regard to licensed squatters the Commissioners consider that they can have no just claims to be confirmed in their holdings. If their lands were not required for other purposes, and they were in a condition to take out leases, some amount of preference might be shown to them, but whenever a squatter, who has been in possession for a lengthened period, is dispossessed the Com- missioners think that it would only be just to give him some compensation for disturbance, however small, and to allow him the value of any improvements he may have made; and with regard to trespassers, of long standing especially, such as have been rated, the Commissioners think that they should have a reasonable notice to renove, and some compensation if they have, owing to the laches of the Crown, been induced to effect any permanent improvements, or are damaged owing to their having put up buildings in the belief that they would not be disturbed.
The Commissioners see no reason why lands, not wanted for other purposes, should not be dis- posed of for pastoral or agricultural purposes, or for garden lots. These lands might be either disposed of to tenants from year to year, or on leases for 7, 14 or 21 years, and the Commissioners think that considerable discretion might be given to the Crown Land Board in dealing with any applications for Land, for these purposes, that may be made to them, subject of course to approval by the Governor, or the Governor in Council, and in accordance with any Instructions that he may receive from the Secretary of State.
With regard to the means to be taken by the Government for looking after the interests of the Colony, in the outlying districts, the Commissioners are satisfied the Government will have eventually to appoint suitable men with similar powers to the Government Agents in Ceylon, and other places.
The Commissioners are strongly of opinion that there should be one such Agent resident in Kowloon; one in the South-Eastern, and one in the North-Eastern Districts of Hongkong.
The duties of these Agents, so far as regards the Land question, would be to make themselves acquainted, in the first instance, with the present occupiers and tenants; to act as Deputy Land Com- missioners and to report to the Crown Land Board upon all existing claims to Land in their respective Districts; to receive, and to report on, applications for grants of Land, or for other privileges which it might be in the power of the Crown Land Board to grant; to superintend the collection of Crown rents and rates and taxes; to prevent trespassing; to look after the forests, and to prevent the trespassing thereon, and the cutting down of trees for sale, or for use as fuel, a temptation to which the villagers, and others, are becoming more and more exposed; to regulate, under the directions of the Crown Land Board, or of the departments concerned, the cutting of grass, the keeping of pigs, the depasturing of cattle and goats. For such duties the Commissioners think that the services of a Passed Cadet might be utilized and that it would afford him a good opportunity for familiarizing himself with the languages spoken in Hongkong; for bringing him into contact with the various departments and for enabling the Government to form some opinion as to the capacity in which his services would be most likely to be useful thereafter; and the Commissioners consider that the increase to the revenue resulting from more strictly looking after the interests of the Crown in the outlying districts would more than com- pensate for the increased staff that would be required. In addition to the duties we have suggested these gentlemen might be appointed Magistrates and deal with criminal cases subject to an appeal or re-hearing before the Magistrates in Victoria and they might also have a limited jurisdiction for dealing with cases of petty debt, and the Commissioners cannot help saying, although not within the scope of their present enquiry, that in their opinion such appointments would have the best possible effect in bringing the Government more into touch with the people and the weakening of the power of the secret societies to which, as we understand, the people now turn for redress whenever they consider that they are in any way wronged as amongst themselves. These gentlemen ought also generally to
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
xxvii
concern themselves about the Government interests in their Districts; to report to the departments interested; to look after the Police, Forest guards, Collectors of Revenue, Lands, Fishing Boats Fisheries, Industries, agricultural and otherwise, the Junk Trade, Roads, Lighthouses, Reservoirs, Water supply, Reclamations, Public Buildings, Repairs, Contractors and workinen employed by Government, &c., &c., &c. These duties the Commissioners think would keep them actively employed and would be of great use to them in after life.
Of course a permanent staff would be required, but only experience can show what that staff should consist of. At present the staff employed is singularly deficient for the work that has to be done. There are Inspectors of Police at Kowloon; at Sowkewan; at Stanley, and at Aberdeen, each with a small body of Police under them; there are three forest rangers for the whole Island, and there are light-house keepers, &c., at each of the light-houses in the Island.
The Treasurer has lately employed an extra shroff and collector in his office; the Surveyor General sends an Inspector occasionally; the Registrar General has hitherto only received applications that have been made to him, and used formerly occasionally to send out a collector; each department works separately, and there has been absolutely no local supervision beyond what the heads of depart- ments, or their deputies, could occasionally give.
The Commissioners think that the time has fully come when some such supervision should be established.
If, however, the Government take a different view, and should not feel justified in incurring the increased expense, the Commissioners think that the services of the Inspectors of Police in the outlying districts might be utilized to a far greater extent than they have hitherto been.
A larger staff will be required at the Land Office, but the Commissioners can make no recom- mendations on that subject, which recommendations must wait the result of experience.
Many suggestions have been made to the Commissioners that there is no sufficient survey of the Colony, especially of the City of Victoria, which, with a public map, it has been represented is very much required for registration and other purposes, and several persons have suggested that the survey should be undertaken and a public map prepared as soon as practicable. Some suggest that a staff of the Ordnance Survey Department in England should be sent out for the purpose, and that the expense to the Colony would, ultimately, be very small, as the value of the map would cover the expenses, and possibly leave a profit.
The Commissioners are informed, however, that there is a very useful map of 160 feet to the inch, prepared some time ago in the Surveyor General's Office and corrected to the latest date, and the Surveyor General has promised that a copy of this map shall be furnished to the Land Office. The Commissioners would recommend that this map should also show houses and street numbers and be kept at the Land Office under constant correction. The Commissioners attach the greatest im- portance to the compilation of proper maps for registration purposes, and recommend the subject to a Crown Land Board, or other authority to be hereafter constituted in lieu thereof.
The Commissioners are of opinion that it is desirable in the interests of the Colony that all the land granted upon lease (except for agricultural or pastoral purposes, or for garden lots), should be granted upon the same tenure. Before very long it will be necessary that something should be done in reference to the Leases for 75 years. The same difficulties will soon arise in dealing with them as arose with the 75 years Leases granted in the early days of the Colony, when the lot holders looked forward to the fact that the termination of their Leases was within a measurable distance; to remedy which the term was extended for a further period of 924 years. The lots become unmarketable, tenants will do nothing towards repairs, or in the improvements or sustenance of their dwellings; if they were habitable towards the expiration of the term that is as much as they would be. No one
xxviii
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
has bought land on a 75 years Lease only, with the idea that the Crown would enforce its right of re- entry at the end of 75 years and turn them out. Nor does it appear why there should be any dis- tinction on one side of the harbour to the other; or on lands in the town or in the country. It may be urged that parties should be kept to the strict performance of their engagements with the Crown, and that where land has risen in value the landlord should be entitled to the unearned increment, at least proportionably with the tenant.
In modern days it has been strenuously urged that the landlord, even if a private individual, has no right to this unearned increment. In case the Crown insists upon its rights, however, the Crown will, at the expiration of 75 years, take not only the unearned increment, but the whole value of the improvements effected by the tenants.
The Crown in dealing with Crown Lands is not like some private persons selfishly seeking to drive a hard bargain at the expense of an individual, but to dispose of its lands in the best interests of the whole community.
}
The Crown, as the Commissioners have endeavoured to point out in another part of this Report, has the entire monopoly of all ungranted land, and in the case of the settlers at Kowloon, and on the Hills, purchasers were, and are, compelled either to accept the terms that are offered by the Crown, or to go without the land.
The Commissioners feel sure that the same reasons which decided Earl GREY to sanction the extension of the Town Lots from 75 to 999 years would apply equally to the extension of the Leases of all other lots from 75 to 999 years.
A new Registration Ordinance is required under which all new Titles should be registered, but the Registration Ordinance, 3 of 1844, should not be repealed, so that the old Titles may still be kept under that Ordinance until they are all got rid of and absorbed under the new system.
The Commissioners, however, have already suggested that some amendments to that Ordinance might be at once made so as to facilitate the bringing of Land under the new system.
Great objection has been taken to the provision in the Leases for the resumption of Land for public purposes at a valuation to be made solely by the Surveyor General, and the Commissioners think that in any new Leases to be issued this provision might be omitted, and an Ordinance might be passed with similar provisions respecting the valuation of such lands as were prescribed in the Ordinance recently passed for the valuation of lands required for the purpose of constructing Tramways.
!
With regard to the form of Crown Lease to be hereafter issued the Commissioners are of opinion that it is very desirable many of the covenants and provisions should be omitted, as unnecessary, and other covenants might be replaced by the provisions of an Ordinance.
A form of lease might be prepared for the new leases to be issued, leaving it to the authority who shall have the control of these matters to decide as to whether any special covenants are required under special circumstances.
A short form of assignment, and of mortgage, might also be adopted which might be extensively used in all ordinary transactions.
The Commissioners have attached to this their Report specimens of the various grants and licences issued by the Government or Government Officers.
The Commissioners recommend that provisions should be made for the registration of all Powers of Attorney under which deeds relating to land are executed, and also for their production and keep- ing copies in the Land Office, and for examined, or office copies, to be accepted in evidence; and that with respect to present Titles, which are affected by Powers of Attorney not being forthcoming, some legislation is desirable.
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
xxix
:
The Commissioners are also strongly of opinion it is desirable, under the new Registration Ordinance, that copies of all original documents affecting Title should be recorded in the Land Office.
With regard to the protection of boundaries, and the fixing of Boundary Marks or Stones, the Commissioners think that this question can be left to the Crown Land Board, or other Authority here- after appointed.
The restriction of Chinese Houses should in the opinion of the Commissioners be retained, and the present boundaries should be fixed by Ordinance, and power might be given to the Crown Land Board, or other Authority appointed, from time to time to alter such boundaries with the approval of the Governor and with notice, previously to the restriction being removed, to the neighbouring lot- holders so as to give them an opportunity of objecting, if they considered their interests affected.
With regard to the assessment of rates and taxes, if the Crown Land Board is appointed the Commissioners consider that such Board should constitute the authority to which the Rate-payers could appeal in the first instance, and this would not be to them so grave a thing as to appear in Court. The Rate-payer could simply go before the Board himself and state his reasons for considering that he was rated too high.
As to the preparation of the valuations and Rate Books, the Commissioners are of opinion that this could most properly be done in the Crown Land Office and under the authority of the Crown Land Board.
With reference to encouraging applications for the disposal of land outside Victoria the Commissioners think that, if their suggestions as to a Crown Land Board and District Deputy Com- missioners of Lands are adopted, ample opportunity will be given to persons requiring land for any purposes to make their wants known to the Government, and the Crown Land Board, if constituted, will be in a position to make any suggestions that they think advisable in each particular case as it may arise..
It sometimes happens when lands are sold that squatters are living upon the ground sold, and one of the conditions of sale in such cases has been that the purchaser should compensate the squatters to the satisfaction of the Government before the Lease is issued. Cases have happened where this con- dition has prevented the delivery of the Lease to the purchaser, owing to his being unable to bring evidence that the squatter has been properly compensated, or even compensated at all, as the terms of compensation were not reduced to writing, and the squatters have removed to places where they cannot be found. This is an undoubted inconvenience to the purchaser which inconvenience would not arise if the squatters were first dealt with by Government and the land sold free of temporary occupants; but if the recommendation of the Commissioners with regard to temporary occupants are adopted this inconvenience would scarcely arise in future.
The conditions of sale generally issued by the Government state that the purchaser shall accept a Crown Lease in the usual form and execute a counterpart when called upon, and the Lease would thereupon issue. In a great many cases, however, the building covenant was disregarded and lands which ought to have been built upon have remained unproductive. This led to the necessity of stopping the grant of the Lease until the building stipulations in the contract have been performed to the satisfaction of the Surveyor General. It is alleged by some persons that this provision has caused unnecessary inconvenience to the purchasers, who, in many cases, have to borrow money in order to complete their buildings, which they are unable to do until the Lease has been issued, no duplicate contract for sale being handed to the purchaser, and there being no provision for the registration of dealings with the contract to safeguard the purchaser or mortgagee. This the Commissioners think would be sufficiently obviated by the registration of the contract, and all dealings under it, in the Land Office in the same manner as the original Lease, for a limited period, and the delivery to the
•
.
XXX
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
purchaser of a duplicate of his contract; but there should be stringent limitations as to the time during which the temporary registration should be allowed, as otherwise some purchasers would probably neglect to take out their Leases at all. When the Lease is taken out the Register in respect of each particular piece of land should be closed.
OVERCROWDING IN VICTORIA, ITS CAUSES AND METHODS
OF ALLEVIATION.
With regard to overcrowding, it appears that so long ago as the year 1849 Mr. DUDDELL called the attention of the Land Committee sitting at that time to the remarkable hoarding together of the
Chinese.
And this has gone on increasing to the present day.
In 1874 the Colonial Surgeon called the serious attention of the Government to the evils of over- crowding.
In 1880 the Military Authorities complained to the Government of the excessive crowding of the houses erected within the neighbourhood of the Barracks, endangering the health of the Troops, and suggested a Colonial Ordinance should be passed limiting the inhabitants of a house to what Health Officers consider a fitting number of human beings.
In the same year the Earl of KIMBERLEY, (Despatch 26th November, 1880), complained to Governor HENNESSY that little appeared to have been done since the date of the Colonial Surgeon, Dr. AYRES' reports to improve the sanitary condition of those parts of the Town of Victoria which are inhabited by Chinese, and that the rapid growth of the population cannot fail to have added to the evil of overcrowding.
Statements have recently been made that, if the sanitary measures proposed by the newly con- stituted Sanitary Board are adopted, large numbers of people will be rendered homeless, and even now, notwithstanding the cold season has not yet come to an end, it is alleged people are already obliged to sleep in the streets.
Rents in the Colony are simply enormous, the rents charged for European dwelling houses being at least three times as much as the rents obtained in any close suburb of London, without the same accommodation and at least double what they ought to be.
The Commissioners are of opinion that this will be a question for a Crown Land Board, or other constituted body, to consider seriously and to report as to whether any steps can be taken by the Government to afford relief, in this respect, by putting land in the market for sale at a reduced Crown Rent or otherwise.
The Government, as has been pointed out, has a monopoly of all the unsold land, and an intending purchaser must either comply with any terms that the Government may demand, or purchase land already sold by Government, and in the hands of private persons, (much of which is in the hands of persons who have bought for investment), or go without.
The sale of land by Government has no effect in reducing rents, because as lands in the hands of private parties increase in value an additional and proportional Crown rent is claimed by Government. In addition to this as rents increase, so, in like proportion, do rates, and the result of all these combined causes is that houses for respectable European families are difficult to obtain; rents are constantly being forced up higher, and the Commissioners are informed that a large number of the poorer classes of the European community are compelled, to their great detriment, owing to the high rents asked for the very smallest European house, to live in Chinese houses.
The best means to adopt for the checking of overcrowding is to enlarge the area in which people can live, and the most obvious thing to do is, if possible, to get the Naval and Military Establishments, removed from the centre of the Town, or at all events to remove as far as they can do so consistently with the interests of the Government.
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
xxxi
The Commissioners have received returns from the Naval and Military Authorities which they have appended to this their report. From these returns it would appear that the Naval authorities have in their possession:-
In Victoria; Naval Yard,
•
2.
Mt. Shadwell,
>>
Hongkong, Mt. Gough,
Out of Victoria; Kowloon,
A. R. P.
...4.3.26
...
6.3.33
.........4.3.23
At Stone Cutters' Island the use of a rifle range extend-
ing to 600 yards,...
....
....5.0. 3
At Kowloon the use of a rifle range extending to 400 yds.
say 22 acres or 958,320 square feet.
A. 21.3. 5
And the Military Authorities have in their possession about 337 acres or 13,579,720 square feet. Some of this land is at Stone Cutters' Island and some at the Peak.
But in addition to this the Commissioners understand that there are tracts of land more especially at Kowloon and at the back of Kennedy Road, which owing to the restrictions placed upon them by the Military Authorities the Government is unable to dispose of, although otherwise readily saleable.
The amount occupied by the Naval and Military Authorities in the centre of the Town, and cutting the Town in two, is:-By the Naval Authorities 4 acres—or at the rate of 43,560 square feet to the acre-206,910 square feet; and by the Military Authorities, 84 acres, or 3,659,040 square feet. In addition to which the proposed reclamations in front of the Naval and Military Establishments, except what is wanted for the new Praya are claimed as follows:-By the Naval Authorities 2 acres or 108,900 square feet, and by the Military, 6 acres, or 261,360 square feet, making a grand total of 4,236,410 square feet.
1
It has been pointed out to the Commissioners, by several persons, that the City of Victoria is really divided into two Towns, and the effect of the recent purchases by the Military Authorities has been to make things worse than they were before, both in regard to their having turned out a number of people having to seek for some other places in which to live and carry on their businesses, and that from the fact of their having dispossessed and turned out all these people from the Queen's Road they have more than ever divided the Town into two complete parts.
The land now occupied by the Naval and Military Authorities is extremely valuable, and has for some time been steadily increasing in value, and, although it might not be advisable to put the whole of the land into the Market at once, yet, with the present increasing population of the Colony, it would be rapidly absorbed, and the Government would not only get the premium for it, but a large Crown Rent.
In addition to this, as soon as the land is covered with houses the Government would get a large
amount for rates.
There are other measures which could be carried out, in the event of the Government arranging for the Naval and Military Authorities to give up a sufficient quantity of the land they now occupy, such as tramways, reclamation of the foreshore, and other reclamations advantageous to be effected, all of which would tend to increase the general revenue of the Colony.
If the Naval and Military Authorities even gave up only the land to the North of the Queen's Road it would be very much to the public advantage.
Although the Commissioners are aware that there is great objection to giving up, on the part of the Naval and Military Authorities, of any portion of their land, yet the Commissioners think that
xxxii
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
the Naval and Military Authorities would not oppose themselves to the well being and the interests of the whole community if they were thoroughly satisfied that they were standing in the way of the best interests of the Colony.
Sooner or later, the Commissioners think, that if the population continues to increase, it will be absolutely necessary with the increasing want of space, and value of land, that the space occupied by the Naval and Military Authorities will have to be relinquished in consequence of the pressure of population in the adjoining portions.
Now that the forts are completed they will be worse than useless unless the garrison is largely increased. If the garrison is increased more buildings will have to be erected, and the cost of removal will be very greatly increased. If the best lands of the Colony are occupied for military purposes the Colony is really contributing enormously towards the expenses of the troops, and can hardly be called upon, in justice, to make any further military contribution.
The Commissioners, while attaching the greatest importance to the views of military experts, especially to those of so competent and liberal minded an officer as the present Major-General CAMERON, C.B., are not convinced of the necessity of cutting the City into two parts. They venture to think that other positions might be found, which, with the aid of speedy communication that might be obtained, would be equally advantageous for all military purposes, and for the protection of the City, looking to its peculiar configuration, and would be prepared to suggest what they would consider to be suitable sites for the whole barrack accommodation, inclusive of officers quarters and bungalows for married officers, and parade grounds, if there was the slightest chance of inducing the Military Authorities to consider the advisability of removal.
Whether the Military Authorities can be induced to leave the centre of the City, or to withdraw from the Northern side of Queen's Road as far as they can possibly do so consistently with keeping open their communication with the sea, the Commissioners consider that they should at all events be called upon to determine as to what portion of the 337 acres now in their occupation should be retained by them, and what restrictions it is necessary for them to impose upon land that is required for building purposes.
Great complaints have been made to the Commissioners as to alleged unnecessary restrictions imposed upon building at Kowloon, and also as to building villa residences above Kennedy Road which are greatly required, and as to both of which complaints the Commissioners, as at present advised, believe the restrictions alleged to have been imposed to be unnecessary, either for military purposes in the one case, or with necessary restrictions as a sanitary precaution, in the other.
The Commissioners also strongly recommend the removal of all public buildings, that are not absolutely essential, in the heart of the Town. The Supreme Court House and Offices in consequence of the great value of the site could be removed, without any expense, if a suitable site could be obtained elsewhere.
If the land were reclaimed between the City Hall and Murray Pier the Post Office could be removed to a much better position for it there, where the Post Office Officials could be alone to themselves, have plenty of light, plenty of air, and free communication with the water.
And the Gaol might be removed.
The cost of the new Gaol would be large, and it is considered that the value of the ground would be very much less than the cost of the new Gaol, and it is said that a new Gaol is not at present required, and that, if removed, the site would be wanted for Government purposes.
But if the Gaol were removed, whatever buildings are removed to its site would be removed from the lower parts of the Town, and the Commissioners think that in the valuations which have been made, the
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
xxxiii
*
increased Crown rents and rates to be obtained have not been taken into consideration, and that it may not be advisable to spend all the money estimated as the cost of the new Gaol for some time to come, if sufficient space is reserved for extension. Still, as a measure of relief, its removal would open out a considerable space for building houses for some of the European population who are unable to find or afford the expense of a house on the higher levels.
These reasons, apart from any other questions, make it avisable for the Gaol to be removed from the centre of the Town.
If the Magistracy is continued there, of course provision would have to be made for prisoners before trial, and for those who are committed to trial at the Supreme Court.
The Commissioners are of opinion that if the Naval and Military Authorities can be prevailed upon to remove from the centre of the Town, and if the public buildings to which they have referred are also removed there will be sufficient available space to be filled up for some time to come.
If this is, however, impracticable, the Commissioners think that some relief may be obtained by having free communication by Railway or Tramway with the villages and outlying districts, and by reclamations that may be effected at a moderate cost.
It is impossible, at present, to say what effect the making of Railways would have, but judging from other places it is reasonable to suppose that it would have the effect of removing many work- shops, and a large number of people, from the central part of the City, and, with better protection, the better class of Chinese might be induced to remove their family houses out of the city. The Villages would be increased; a portion of the Junk trade would find it convenient to go to the outports, espe- cially if some allowance were made with regard to the payment of fees, and it would certainly make the Crown lands in the neighbourhood of considerably increased value.
If it is thought desirable the construction of a Railway as an experiment might be tried, but seeing that if it fell into the hands of private persons it must inevitably be a monopoly, the Commis- sioners think if it were undertaken, (and there are no engineering difficulties in its way), it would probably be better that it should be undertaken by the Government, even if it were subsequently leased to a private Company; and considering the vast numbers of Chinese who are constantly passing through this place it would have a considerable effect in introducing improved means of communica- tion, and railways, into the Southern part of China, thus increasing the commercial importance of the Colony.
If the propositions for transferring Crown Lands to the Crown Land Board are entertained the Crown Land Board will be able to undertake public works which would be remunerative; they would be in a position, probably to entertain some such scheme; and with reclamations in the harbour, and removal of public buildings from the centre of the Town, the Government could provide a considerable amount of space.
REDEMPTION OF CROWN RENTS.
The whole of the purchase moneys received from the sales of land are not now brought into the general Revenue of the Colony, but are placed to a separate account, on the ground that the present population ought not to be spending the assets of the Colony except in permanent improvements which will be to the benefit of their successors.
The Crown rents, the Commissioners think, might well be put on the same footing and ought to be expended in the first instance in the improvement of the Crown property, transferring only the annual profits received by the Crown Land Board, and not required for the purposes of improvement, to the general revenue.
xxxiv ·
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
The expenses of reclamations, and expenses of many of the recommendations that are made to Government are enormous, and the Commissioners think that in regard to reclamations, which have hitherto mostly been made at the expense of individuals, the Government, owing to not having the means to affect reclamations itself, has hitherto acted upon an entirely wrong principle, detrimental to the public interests.
If the moneys receivable for Crown rents were put into the same fund as the purchase moneys, the Crown Land Board would have a Revenue which would enable them to make permanent improve- ments, many of which would yield a large annual Revenue to the Government, in the shape of assess-
ments.
In that case the Crown Land Board might be empowered, with the consent of the Governor, subject to the instructions of the Secretary of State not only to spend their current Revenue, but to allow commutations for Crown rent, which, in the opinion of the Commissioners ought not to be less than 25 years' purchase, and also to borrow upon the security of Crown rents.
It must be remembered that the Crown rents are the first charge upon all the lands, and is one of the safest modes of investment that can be devised.
If the handing over the Crown rents to the Crown Land Board cannot be acceded to, at present on account of the deficiency which would be created in the annual Revenue, yet the Revenue has been growing so largely that in a year or two's time the amount that is at present received for Crown rents would hardly be missed, and the effect of improvements to Crown property will certainly, or most probably, increase the rates to a very large amount.
The following table shews the growth of Crown rents, the estimated annual value of buildings for rating purposes, the amount received for rates, and the growth of Revenue from all sources during the last 12 years :-
Table shewing growth of Crown rents, estimated annual value of buildings for rating purposes, the amount received for rates, and the growth of Revenue from all sources from the year 1875 to the year 1886 inclusive.
Years.
Amount of Rent Roll.
Estimated Annual · Value of Buildings for Rating Purposes.
Received for Rates. Received for Rates.
Total Revenue of the
Colony from all sources (except premia from Land Sales.)
$
$
$
$$
1875
128,509
1,670,410
186,098
893,818
1876
128,130
1,694,695
184,509
871,308
1877
129,404
1,733,515
190,865
920,910
1878
130,123
1,764,662
197,925
936,606
1879
130,812
1,900,870
171,342
962,687
1880
131,716
2,094,235
230,557
1,063,949
1881
146,227
2,062,854
221,796
1,120,797
1882
148,450
2,308,882
252,938
1,209,517
1883
153,109
2,330,010
258,614
1,289,448
1884
153,923
2,404,302
263,989
1,173,071
1885
155,490
2,562,254
285,765
1,251,890
1886
160,753
2,590,942
306,132
1,367,978
If at any time the Crown Rents should yield a profit, the first thing which should be done, the Commissioners think, is to reduce the amounts that are paid for rates which are now, in the City, no less than 13 per cent. on the estimated annual value.
REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
XXXV
The reason of the delay in making this report has been the vast nature of the inquiry. It would have been desirable for the Commissioners to have examined the witnesses, as they might have altered their opinions if they had been acquainted with the facts in the possession of the Commissioners. The absence of the Chairman, the Chief Justice, was unavoidable, and it was thought by the members of the Commission desirable to get the Report prepared before he went away, more especially as he would then be in a position to give any information which might be required in England. They therefore decided to close their enquiry before his departure, and agreed to the draft Report, which has since been amplified by him, and has been transmitted by him in its present shape from Japan.
The Commissioners feel that their Report is somewhat imperfect, but that, even such as it is, they owe it in a large measure to the exertions of their Secretary, who has spent much time in collecting the materials for them, and whose labours they think should be adequately rewarded.
14th April, 1887.
:
GEO. PHILLIPPO,
Chairman.
EDW. J. ACKROYD.
J. M. PRICE.
A. P. McEWEN.
HO KAI.
ADDITIONAL REMARKS BY THE SURVEYOR GENERAL.
I concur generally in the recommendations contained in this Report with the exception of those at pages 26 and 29 in connexion with trespassers and squatters.
I desire to record my objection to any compensation for disturbance being awarded to trespassers of however long standing,
Native poachers are perfectly well aware that they are acting illegally in surreptitiously appro- priating Crown Land and-looking to the difficulties of detection-I think that the laches of the Crown in not evicting immediately that the trespass has been committed should be no reason on which to found any recommendation for indemnity.
Nor in respect of Squatters can I see the justice of saddling the general ratepayers of the Colony with the burthen of any compensation for disturbance in view of the covenants endorsed on the Licence of the squatter which specially set forth that the latter is only a tenant at will.
(Signed),
J. M. PRICE,
Surveyor General.
LIST OF APPENDIX.
•
Page.
Appendix, No. 1.-Questions submitted by the Commissioners for the consideration and opinion of Landowners, Barristers, Solicitors, Surveyors, and others, regarding the sale and tenure of the land of the Colony, and other matters relating thereto, the answers to which were required for the information of the Commissioners,..
Appendix, No. 2.-Tracings produced before the Commissioners by the Deputy Land Officer shewing specimens of
the manner in which various Lots have been divided and subdivided:-
3
No. 1.-Plan of Marine Lots Nos. 91 and 92, shewing the Remaining Portions tinted red, the owners of
which pay Crown Rent for the whole areas,
9
No. 2.-Plan of Marine Lot No. 63в, with portions of Marine Lots Nos. 1a and 63, shewing houses in
Wing Shing Street standing on portions of the 3 Lots,
No. 3.-Plan of portions of Inland Lots Nos. 1 and 129, shewing Tong Tak Lane running obliquely through the Lots and houses with the lot boundaries running obliquely through them, ...... No. 4.-Plan shewing boundaries between Marine Lots Nos. 37 and 83 supposed to be identical, but really leaving the strip, tinted red, not included in either Lot. The houses are built over the boundaries and over the strip tinted red,
11
13
15
No. 5.-Plan of Inland Lots Nos. 385 and 386, shewing buildings on Inland Lot No. 385 encroaching over adjoining ground and Inland Lot No. 386 with no entrance to it except through adjoining lots,
17
Appendix, No. 3.-Petition to the Legislative Council signed by all the Solicitors in the Colony and supported by
several of the leading inhabitants, transmitting a Bill for dealing with Land Questions dated January, 1885,
Appendix, No. 4.-Judgments of the Supreme Court of Hongkong:-
19
No. 1.-Ow YEONG KWON SEK v. TANG A LOK, shewing dealings with property by individuals who
had no Title,
25
No. 2.-LO ON v. LU Foo WING, shewing that possessory rights, without registration, have been under
certain circumstances acknowledged,..
27
No. 3.-CHUN YIK CHUNG and Others v. M. J. D. STEPHENS, entering fully into the original mode of
marking out boundaries,.
28
No. 4.-The Official Administrator of the Estate of LUNG KWONG CHI v. HO YUNG, shewing that Crown
Leases have been granted to fictitious persons,
333333
Appendix, No. 5.-Report laid before the Commissioners by the Surveyor General upon the subject of Squatting, 36
Appendix, No. 6.-Statement in tabular form of the information obtained by Mr. Sampson in 25 Villages, shewing
that large quantities of land are held by Squatters rent free and tax free or on payment of Police Rates only,.... 39
Appendix, No. 7.-Specimens of grants and Licences issued by the Government or Government Officers :—
No. 1.-Form of Crown Lease under the Seal of the Colony and signed by the Governor,
No. 2.-Form of Agreement with Surveyor General to erect Verandahs over Crown Land,
No. 3.-Form of Squatter's Licence signed by the Surveyor General,
No. 4.-Form of Registrar General's Agreement for Tenancy of Crown Buildings, ....
No. 5.-Form of Receipt by Registrar General or Treasurer for original Villagers' Rent and Cultivated
Land,
Appendix, No. 8.-Returns furnished by the Naval Authorities,..............
Appendix, No. 9.-Returns furnished by the Military Authorities,
42
==
44
46
46
....... 47
47
49
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix No. 1.
:
3
QUESTIONS submitted by the Commissioners for the consideration and opinion of Landowners, Barristers, Solicitors, Surveyors, and others, regarding the sale and tenure of the land of the Colony, and other matters relating thereto, the answers to which were required for the information
of the Commissioners.
Questions.
1. Is your acquaintance with the land of the Colony an extensive one as Landowner, or Solicitor having the prepara- tion of Deeds relating to the land, or as Surveyor, or otherwise?
2. Where land is not granted to persons already in possession, or having an admitted claim to the grant of a Lease, it is put up to public auction on the application of an intending purchaser-such application and proposed sale being first approved by the Governor. An annual Crown Rent is fixed by the Surveyor General and the land is offered at the auction at an upset price, upon certain conditions, the highest bidder above the upset price being declared the purchaser for a term of 999 years if a Victoria Marine or Inland Lot, and for 75 years if of another class, and in any case subject to the payment of the fixed annual rental. Has any inconvenience in this mode of sale to the public by auction, on the application of indi- viduals, arisen or come to your knowledge? If so will you be good enough to state the nature of the inconvenience and your opinion thereon.
3. The purchaser at the auction signs a contract for purchase in the terms of a form previously advertised. Until recently the essence of the contract was that the purchaser would accept a Crown Lease in the usual form and execute a counterpart when called upon, and the Lease would thereupon issue; now, the building and other conditions are stated in the contract and the Lease is not granted until the conditions are complied with to the satisfaction of the Surveyor General. Has any inconvenience or hardship arisen, so far as you know, particularly with regard to the purchaser's dealing with or selling his contract to purchase before the Lease can be issued, or otherwise with regard to the stipulations of the contract? If so, what is the nature of the inconvenience or hardship, and your opinion thereon?
4. When the purchaser has complied with his conditions of purchase a Crown Lease is issued to him from the Land Office containing reservations and covenants, and your opinion is desired upon the following points as regards the effect of the Lease upon the Lessee or his Assignees and Successors in Title.
All earth, stones, and minerals are excepted and reserved from the grant, so that the lessee has left in him the surface only of his Lot, and the erections standing upon it for the term for which the Lease is granted. Can you say whether this reservation has ever been found appreciably injurious to the lessee in his occupation or dealings with the ground so granted, or that the effect of this reservation is of no moment to him?
5. The Crown, by the Lease, reserves the right of digging for, acquiring, and carrying away the excepted earth, stones, and minerals if required for public purposes, of course doing as little damage as possible to the lessee. Has this reservation any effect upon the value of property, or does it occasion any difficulty in its sale, or is it otherwise injurious to the lessee?
6. Is it generally believed by purchasers of property that the Crown would not exercise this right, and is it treated as a nullity and therefore of no effect?
•
7. And with regard to the covenants to keep in repair as between Landlord and Tenant with power to the Surveyor General to view and serve notice of, and compel such repairs as he may consider necessary, are these covenants of use to the inhabitants generally in preventing dangerous decays, or are they deemed useless when the Building Laws in force in the Colony are carried into effect?
8. Certain noisome and offensive trades are prohibited by covenant in the Lease, unless carried on with licence. Do the lessees as a rule comply with this covenant, and do purchasers of property where these prohibited trades are carried on inquire whether a licence has been obtained before they complete their purchases or is no inquiry upon this subject made?
9. By Ordinance 10 of 1872, and the Rules under Ordinance 7 of 1883, provision is made in respect of noisome and offensive trades. Is it considered that the Police Regulations are sufficiently stringent without the necessity of the clause in
the Lease at all?
4
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
10. The Crown reserves to itself by the Lease the right of determining the Lease and resuming possession of the ground, when required by the Government for public purposes, on 3 months' notice and payment to the lessee of a full and fair compensation to be fairly and impartially made by the Surveyor General. Has this right of resumption by the Crown on payment of the Surveyor General's valuation occasioned any harm or inconvenience to your knowledge?
11. Has it any effect upon the value of the property?
12. Does it act in any way to the prejudice of its transfer?
13. And what is your opinion upon the clause generally?
14. Is it desirable to have a simpler form of Crown Lease? Would there be any objection to embody the usual provi- sions in an Ordinance and to confine the Crown Lease to a description of the parties and to the property leased?
15. When a lot is sold, pickets, and in some cases boundary stones are fixed in the ground to mark its boundaries. These are frequently removed in the course of building operations by the contractor or his workmen, and it is subsequently found out that the lot has become altered in measurements. How do you propose that the lessee should be dealt with in such cases with the view to keeping his Title to the Lot strictly in order?
16. The owner of a Lot which adjoins vacant ground has a width upon which he can build 3 houses. He builds 5 under one roof of which 2 and part of a third are over the boundary of his Lot on the previously vacant ground to which he has no Title. The lot is sold with the 5 houses described as erected thereon. What steps as to measurement are usually taken by a purchaser to ascertain that in buying the 5 houses they are all comprised in the vendor's Title which is described by Lot and not by houses?
17. Is it the case that frequently on sales and purchases of houses that neither the vendor nor purchaser can establish by measurement or otherwise that a house which is sold or purchased really forms part of the Lot comprised in the vendor's Title Deeds?
*
18. Are there many cases where a purchaser accepts a vendor's Title to a Lot which by the Lease he purports to sell is described as in one situation when the property he takes possession of under his purchase deed is found to be actually in another situation?
19. Generally as to boundaries, are they so ill-defined by the Leases, particularly the Leases granted during the first 30 years after the foundation of the Colony, that by reason of the variation of boundaries, buildings, formation of private streets and alleys, and otherwise such boundaries cannot be even approximately identified?
20. Or, with originally well defined Lease boundaries have such boundaries been changed with changes in building by successive owners as to render the boundaries so unrecognisable that they cannot be located as approximating the boundaries as described by the Leases?
21. Or, when the boundary of a Lot is sought for and cannot be ascertained is it found that both Lease description and change of building are the causes ?
22. What from your experience and in your judgment is the most approved manner of protecting boundaries of Lots from obliteration during a long term of years so as to cause the least trouble of identification when the ground and buildings of the Colony are dealt with?
23. A Building Lease contains a lessee's covenant to build to the satisfaction of the Surveyor General, and the style of house is limited in some localities to European and in others to Chinese. Is there any inconvenience to the lessees or the tenants in this restriction?
24. Do you consider that with varying Colonial circumstances the restriction as to the class of house to be built should from time to time be modified to meet such circumstances?
25. Would it be advisable for the present limits to be fixed by Ordinance, leaving by such Ordinance a course open to amendment from time to time? Or should it be left to the Surveyor General, or a Crown Land Board with the approval of the Governor ?
26. What is your opinion as to the localities where European houses ought alone to be built? Or should there be any restriction?
27. When the ground comprised in a Lease is dealt with the document,-assignment, settlement, mortgage or other instrument affecting it,-must be registered with the proper Officer under a covenant in the Lease. A Registration Ordi- nance [No. 3 of 1844] provides a method of registration by Memorial and regulates the priorities of the documents regis- tered-the system of registration being more a registration of Titles than of Deeds. Does this system of registration answer any useful purpose or in your opinion can it be improved?
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION. OF 1886-87.
28. Would it be more useful to record the documents in extenso; or, if the system can be improved in any in what respect?
5.
other way,
29. Do the registers of Titles in the course of time-by giving notice of old transactions-outstanding legal estates which probably cannot be got in, and other things,—become an impediment, rather than an assistance, to the Title?
30. Would you suggest that the Register of Titles, so far as it gives notice to a proposed purchaser or mortgagee, should be limited as to time? For example, an owner's registered Title is in order for the last 17 years, but is not market- able owing to apparently outstanding estates created more than 17 years ago not having been got in. If the Title could be limited to 16 years so that no notice could be obtained of prior defects would such Title be marketable?
31. If you suggest a limit of time what time would you consider a reasonable limit considering the circumstances of the Colony and the number of absentee owners?
32. Would it not in your opinion be better to provide by Ordinance for settling such questions by citing the parties, apparently having claims, before a Court to shew cause why a clear Title should not be granted, or what other method would you suggest?
33. When part only of a Lot is sold it is registered as a section, and when part only of a section is sold it is registered as a sub-section, and so on—and by reason of blocks of buildings having been erected in a direction not intended nor thought of when the Lot was originally sold it happens in many cases that one house stands on two and sometimes three Lots, and the Title to one house occupies 3 folios of the different register books so that three searches of three different Lots are necessary to ascertain the state of the Title to one house. How do you consider questions of this sort should be dealt with?
34. If by register of the Title to a house by name or street number, how would you propose the identification of the house and ground it stands on should be kept clear?
35. The owner of a house standing upon portions of three separate Lots has to pay proportions of Crown Rents to three different owners of the remaining portions of the Lots-the owner of a remaining portion being looked upon as directly responsible for the whole Crown Rent to the Crown. How would you deal with the question of payments of proportions of Crown Rents in such cases?
36. By what legal means does the owner of a remaining portion recover the proportion of Crown Rent due from the section holders, and section holders from the sub-section holders and so on?
37. If a sub-section holder pays up the Crown Rent to prevent forfeiture (there being no remaining portion or no remaining portion owner) how does he recover the proportions from the owners of other sections and sub-sections?
38. What powers of cross distress are usually given in cases of sales and purchases of sections and sub-sections?
39. Do you consider the system hitherto practised of permitting sections and sub-sections to be registered a good system or not? If not, state objections and whether it would be desirable for all holders of sections and sub-sections to hold direct from the Crown under a new Lease from the Crown, and if so the reasons for your opinion?
40. Numerous Deeds have been, and are still being, executed by the Attorneys of absentee owners; how is the Memo- rial evidence of a Deed executed by an Attorney under power seeing there is no evidence in the Land Office records that such a power exists?
41. Would you insist on the Power of Attorney being registered when land is dealt with under it?
42. Many Powers of Attorney are missing, and Deeds executed under them, and their Memorials, cannot by any means be proved to be properly executed and signed by the proper parties. How do you consider that cases of this sort—which render a Title unmarketable-should be dealt with, so as to render the Title marketable, if no other defect exists?
43. The Memorial of a Deed gives no statement of the usual covenants the Deed contains-such covenants being presumed-If the law were that every Deed should be taken to comprise certain usual covenants would Deeds and their registration become in your opinion-more simplified?
44. Are the forms of Memorials generally adopted for registration, in other respects, sufficient as secondary evidence of missing Deeds? If not what defects are there and how do you consider they should be remedied?
45. When the Title to a lot was defective owing to a comparison of the description of the Lot gathered from the Title Deeds with the Lot itself shewing the original ground has been added to, it was customary for the Crown to accept a surren- der of the Lot and grant a new Lease with corrected boundaries, and adjusted rental. If the former Lot was sold at a premium an extra premium would be assessed and charged at the same rate for the additional area. Now, if the surrender
F
6
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
of a Lease is accepted and a new Lease granted the premium for additional area is assessed by the Surveyor General at such rate as he finds to be the market rate of the day in the particular locality the Lot in question is situated. Do you consider there is any objection or inconvenience to this course being continued and if so what is the nature of the objection or incon- venience?
46. Is it advisable for the Crown to accept surrenders and to grant fresh Crown Leases upon an exparte application and without notice to possible claimants? Or is it desirable to make provisions ou the subject so as to do justice to all parties and to have the applicant's Title approved by some competent tribunal before surrenders are accepted?
47. In addition to the Marine and Inland Building Leases for 999 years and Rural Building for 75 years there is another form of Lease called a Farm Lease the extra privileges it confers beyond a Building Lease being the low rate of Crown Rent charged, and the liberty it gives to “turn out cattle, sheep, or other stock upon the "waste or uncultivated hills adjoining "the Lot. Its extra restrictions being the reservation of all timber, trees, and underwood and a covenant not to build except what is required for the purposes of a Farm.
These Lots are now nearly all built upon as if they were Rural Building Lots and ornamental trees and shrubs have been planted upon them, the buildings having been erected with the sanction of the proper Government Officer, but the Lots remain with the restrictions of the Farm Lease and consequently at the lower rent. Is it in your opinion desirable that these restrictions should be removed, and if so upon what terms as to payment of premium and extr. Crown Rent, and how to be assessed and whether the terms should be optional or compulsory..
48. There are also certain Garden Lots at Kowloon granted for 14 years, renewable, to which the same statement and questions apply. Does your opinion include both Farm and Garden Lots and if not, in what respect is there a difference?
49. How are the Lots mentioned in the two last statements dealt with, and what steps does a purchaser take when he purchases a Farm or Garden Lot with a house standing upon it to ascertain that it is not contrary to the terms of the Lease and the sanction of the Government?
50. Ground is also held by squatters under a form of Squatter's Licence. Do you know whether there are any dealings by the squatters among themselves or others selling, mortgaging, or underletting their holdings?
51. If so what title is given or accepted?
52. Do you consider that before underletting his holding a squatter should be compelled to purchase a Lease? what class of Lease and upon what terms as to payment of permium and Crown Rent?
53. Do these people keep cattle, pigs, or goats to any extent? If so, do they take out licences? Do they depasture their animals on Government property beyond the ground covered by their licences? If so by what authority and should such a practice if existing be stopped or checked ?
54. Land is sold with squatters upon it, licensed or unlicensed, subject to the purchaser compensating them to the satisfaction of the Government. Do you consider this a satisfactory mode of sale?
55. Some ground is held upon Lease for 75 years at a high Crown Rent, and for which a high premium has been paid. Similar or better land is held by licensed squatters at a low rent for which no premium has been paid. What effect have these different tenures upon the value of property, its transfer and occupation?
56. Do you consider that the occupier, not being a trespasser, no matter how low the tenure of his holding, should have an option of purchasing a better tenure against all new comers; if so upon what terms, and how are the terms to be assessed to the best advantage for all classes of Leaseholders?
4
57. Do you consider that a trespasser after, or before, being assessed on the rate books should also have an option of purchasing the ground he is occupying as such. If so under what circumstances and upon what terms?
58. If such occupier, licensed or unlicensed, be too poor to purchase his lot how would you then propose the property he holds should be dealt with in the event of its being required by an intending purchaser able and willing to pay the market premium of the day and Crown Rent?
59. How are leased lands affected by the 3 classes of squatters viz. :-
(1.) The licensed squatter who pays rates and a low Crown Rent.
`(2.) The squatter, unlicensed, who gets on to the rate books and pays rates only, and
(3.) The squatter who pays neither rates nor rent and who as a rule is too poor to pay either?
60. Crown Rents are reserved by every Lease and Licence, viz. Marine, Inland, Farm, Rural Building and Genden Lot Leases and Squatters Licences. Do you consider as regards the Marine and Inland Lot Leases for 999 years and Rural Building Lot Leases for 75 years that advantages would accrue to the Colony generally and the value of property become more assured if the Leaseholders had the option of redeeming their Crown Rents. These Crown Rents vary very consider-
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APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
ably, some properties paying more than one hundred times as much as other properties of equal value, and unless something is done, this inequality will continue with respect to Leases for 999 years, practically, for ever. Is there any reason why this inequality should continue, and if not what do you consider a fair price for the Leaseholder to pay for its redemption? Would 20 years' purchase be too much or too little?
61. In your opinion would the opportunity of redeeming ground rents be taken advantage of to any extent?
The present yield of Crown Rent is about $170,000 per annum. Twenty years purchase would amount to $3,400,000. In consideration of the very large requirements for public works is there any reason why this amount should not be raised?
62. Do you consider that the holder of a lower class of Lease or tenure should also have an option to redeem his Crown Rent, and if so upon what terms and how to be fixed?
63. How many Crown Leases are there for 999 years? sections and sub-sections and how many houses built thereon?
How many sections and sub-sections? How many owners of How many Farm Lots, Rural Building Lots and Garden Lots? Are there any section or sub-section holders on these? If so, how many? and how many houses? How many Squatters Licences and how many houses, and of what decription? How many trespassers and how many houses and of what description? How many houses of all descriptions are there that are rated in each class?
64. What property is held by the Military and Naval Authorities, and what amount of land is prevented from being occupied by the action of the Military Authorities?
65. Is the present mode of granting Crown Land satisfactory, or would you recommend that a Crown Land Board should be appointed to consider applications for the grant of Land, to sit at frequent intervals and to report to the Governor and generally to have the management of everything connected with Crown property? If so of what members should the Board consist and should they be remumerated or should their services be given voluntarily ?
66. Would it be desirable that the Board, if appointed, should have agents outside of Victoria to receive applications, and would it be desirable for the Inspectors of Police in the outlying districts to be such agents and report to the Board, or should the agents be of a different class?
67. Is it advisable to encourage applications for the disposal of land outside of Victoria ?
68. If so, are there any concessions to Chinese sentiments which, in dealing with the waste lands of the Colony, the Government might make so as to induce respectable Chinese to build their Family houses in the country districts?
69. Are there any concessions which the Government could make in dealing with such land for the purpose of increasing
manufactories?
70. In your opinion has the time yet come when it is advisable to have Government Agents who would also be Magis- trates in Kowloon and in the Country Districts of Hongkong, to attend amongst other things to receiving applications for grants of land, to look after the Crown's interests in the Forests, to have the superintendence of the collection of Crown Rents and Rates and Taxes and generally to look after the Crown's interests in outlying districts, and if so how many should be appointed in the first instance ?
71. With respect to Forests, is it advisable that they should be placed under the Crown Land Board?
72. With respect to sales of land generally, are there any peculiar difficulties in the making of Titles owing to the present arrangements respecting the grant of Crown Leases and assignments of sections and sub-sections? If so, please state what difficulties are experienced in these or in any other respects and the best way in your opinion to remove such
difficulties.
73. Are there many Titles to land in your experience which the Court would refuse to enforce upon an unwilling purchaser, and of what nature are the objections to the Title?
74. Are Conditions of Sale with regard to blots upon Title frequently made and what are the most usual blots for which conditions are provided?
75. Is the market value of property injuriously affected by such conditions?
76. With respect to existing dispositions of Crown Land, is it in your opinion possible without a full and complete inquiry into the whole of the property to make the present Titles correspond with the actual land occupied? Or is it desirable to inquire into all the Crown Leases already granted and to grant new Crown Leases upon equitable terms as far as practicable in accordance with present holdings giving to each Crown Lessee and to all holders of sections and sub-sections a new Crown Lease and thus starting afresh, and commencing registration de novo?
77. If in your opinion it is desirable that such a course should be adopted would you recommend that it should be compulsory, or should it be made compulsory upon the application of a Crown Lessee, or of a majority in number and value of holders under any one Crown Lease?
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APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
78. Should the inquiry be conducted under the authority of a Crown Land Board or of Commissioners to be specially appointed for the purpose, with an appeal on questions of law to the Supreme Court or under a Land Court to be appointed for the purpose?
79. Supposing new Leases to be granted is it desirable in future to recognize possessory Titles without documentary evidence of record in the Land Registry?
80. Would the provisions of the last Registration Act in England "The Yorkshire Registration Act, 1884," 47 and 48 Vic. c. 54 meet the present requirements as to Land Registry?
81. Would it be advisable to introduce the Australian system of Land Registry in cases where it was so desired, and would such a system of registration be likely to be taken advantage of to any extent ?
82. Would it be advisable to simplify the Crown Leases by Ordinance so as to make it necessary only to describe the parties and the land?
83. Is there any objection to an Ordinance simplifying Assignments, Mortgages, and Underleases?
84. Would it be advisable to register Memorials only, or would it be better to preserve a copy of all original documents
in the Land Registry? Or is it advisable to give the party registering an option in the matter?
85. Is the present system of granting Leases suitable to the circumstances of the Colony or is it desirable to convert leaseholds into freeholds ?
86. If the Leasehold system is to continue how should property bequeathed by Will be registered? Also in cases of intestacy where Leasehold property is not required by the Administrator for payment of debts?
87. In future sales of Crown Land is there any reason why Crown Rent beyond a nominal sum should be charged, or is it advisable that the value of the Crown Rent should be considered in the upset price?
88. Is it advisable that the purchase money should be charged in a lump sum, or would it be any convenience to pur- chasers if the amount of purchase money with interest was distributed over a number of years, or at least until after build- ings were erected.
89. At present no one knows who are the Crown Tenants. A list is made out by the Registrar of owners of Crown Leases of Inland and Marine Lots, Farm, Rural Building, and Garden Lots, and by the Registrar General of holders of Squatters licences, and furnished to the Treasurer. The rents are collected by the Treasurer who receives the amount from any one who chooses to pay. Does this practice leave any opening for fraud on the Government?
90. Are the amounts punctually collected or are there generally large arrears?
91. Is it desirable for the assessment of rates and taxes to be made by a Crown Land Board?.
92. Should appeals be made in the first instance to the Crown Land Board?
93. Is it desirable that Crown Rents and Rates should be collected by the Board or its Officers so as to bring them more directly in contact with the Tenants?
94. As to overcrowding. Can any measures in your opinion be adpoted by Government to prevent the overcrowding in certain districts in the city?
95. What Government Buildings are there in the City and can any be advantageously removed to places less required by the business portion of the community?
96. What land is occupied by the Naval and Milltary Authorities in the City and could any inducements be offered to them to remove their establishments or any portion of them to places outside the City limits?
97. Is any land elsewhere available and if so where?
98. Supposing the authorities were willing to remove, would the land now occupied by them be likely to be taken up by the Community for building purposes?
99. Would the Hongkong Government be likely to obtain sufficient from the sales to justify the offering to build new Barracks and Officers Quarters in a less populous locality?
100. If the land were generally taken up for building purposes, would the Hongkong Government be in a position out of the rates to pay a larger amount of subsidy for military purposes?
101. Would the making of tramways to Shau-ki-wán and Aberdeen have any effect in removing any of the people from the crowded districts to other localities, and could Government grant any facilities for construction?
102. Could any of the junk trade be removed to the harbours on the South side of the Island ?
103. Could any greater facilities be given for settlement at Kowloon?
104. What effect would the completion of the Praya between the Eastern and Western portions of the City be likely to have? Is it an undertaking that should be commenced at once?
105. Is there any portion of the sea shore in the Colony where reclamations are desirable?
N
E
M
EAS***
STRE
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300
Appendix, No. 2.
Plan, No. 1.
Plan of Marine Late Nos Il and 92 Shewing the Remaining Portions tinted red, the Owners of which pay
pay Crown Rent for the whole areas.
Marine Lot No 92
Area of Rem? Por 490 Sg. feel Area 31500 Sq. feet
:
105.0"
20
E
N
S
PRA Y A.
Area 25270 Sq. feet- Area of. Rems. Po: 407 Sq. feet.
Marine Lot No91
R O
D
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:
2
M.
LOT. NO);
Appendix, No. 2,—(Continued).
Plan, No. 2.
P
A A
SEC A. M.L. JA.
SEC.B.M.L.NDIA.
POR. OF M.LIA,
POROF SECD SECE. SECA
SEC.HM.LIA
SECC.M.L.NBI" MLIAMLJA M.4.12. M.LIA SEC.B.M.LN9633 POR. REMG SECC SECD SECE
M.
SEC.
M.1.633 M.L.632 M. L. 3 BML63 SEC.F.NL.63B
1
SUBSEC 7 OF SEC.J.
M.L.6.3.
PREM. POR
OF SELJA
4.63 SUBSEC. 2 OF SEC J. M.L.63.
3
SUBSEC. 3.'
OF SEC J.
M. L. 63.
EC 4
1852
C
SEC. 5.
SEC
SUBSEC 6.
OF SEC. J.
M. L. 63.
MSEC S
OF SEC
ระ
SEC. G. M. L.N? 63 B.
SUBSEC, IO OF SECJ. M. L.63.
SUBSEC. 9 OF NEW M. L. 63.
WING
M
Plan of Marine Lot
SH
HING
N° 63B. with portions of Marine Lots Nos l^and 63.
No
63.
STREE
Shewing houses in Wing Shing Streel-
standing on portions of the Three lots:
Picale 30 feet = /inch.
QUEEN F
ROAD.
11
TONG
TAK
1. LM9419.
سکے
LANE
LANE (RIGHT OF WAY)
LOT NPI.
SECH.JL
TONG
RIGHT OF WAY,
TAK LANE (RIGHT
SEC G.
IXLAND LOT No199.
L Y N D HURST
TERRACE.
Appendix, No. 2,--(Continued).
Plan, No. 3.
Plan of portions of Inland Lots Nos 18129 shewing Tong Tak Lane running sliquely through. the lot's and houses with the lot boundaries running through them obliquely.
INLAN
کے کا کیا کر کے
13
i
سا
Appendix, No. 2,-(Continued).
Plan, No. 4.
Plan showing boundaries Between Marine Lots N2537 a. d 33 supposed to be
and identical, but really leaving the strip
tinted red not included in either Iol- The houses are built over the boundaries and over the strip tinted red.
PANOR
Enter
HILTON
#
15.0
#
Arty
માતા થયા
Ja đ
N° 37
I FA UN INCR
MALAY
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M
4.
83.
PRIAN
K
ਕਾਸ
ВО
NHAM
STRAN D
WEST.
15
Appendix, No. 2,-(Continued).
Plan, No. 5.
17
Plan of Inland Lots No 385 386 shewing buildings on Inland Lot N385 encroaching over adjoining ground
and Inland Iob No 386 with no entrance
to it except through adjoining lots."
1.4.3384
H
GOVIGROUND.
ww
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1
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
19
Appendix No. 3.
ሃ
PETITION TO THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL SIGNED BY ALL THE SOLICITORS IN THE COLONY
AND SUPPORTED BY SEVERAL OF THE LEADING INHABITANTS, TRANSMITTING
A BILL FOR DEALING WITH LAND QUESTIONS DATED JANUARY, 1885.
To the Honourable
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
OF HONGKONG.
THE HUMBLE PETITION OF THE UNDERSIGNED PETITIONERS.
SHEWETH:-
I. That your petitioners the undersigned solicitors constitute the whole body of solicitors in the Colony of Hongkong.
II. That a very large number (it is believed a majority) of the titles to land in the Colony have, for various reasons, during the existence of the Colony, fallen into a most complicated and entangled condition, so much so that there are, as your said petitioners have experienced, a very great number of titles which, though possibly so far good in the sense that no one could dispossess their owners thereof, are, from a technical point of view, practically bad in the sense of their not being, as they should be, titles which a Court of Equity would force on an unwilling purchaser.
III. Owing to these facts the transfers of land in the Colony have become to a large extent difficult, if not, indeed, on open contracts, impracticable undertakings, demanding strong guarding conditions of limitation on sales, which, how- ever valuable as a protection to Vendors, are apt to startle intending purchasers and prejudice the biddings, or where the contract is an open one, such as by letter, as so many are, the result, as the experience of the last three years con- clusively proves, is frequently a law-suit.
IV. In consequence of the legal difficulties above referred to attaching to transmissions of land, your said petitioners, at a meeting lately held by them, considered the whole question, and the mode that would be best in the public interest to effect a remedy.
V. At the same meeting your said petitioners unanimously passed the following resolutions:-
(1.)—That in order to assimilate the law of property in this Colony to that now in force in England, and to facilitate the transfer of land in the Colony, it is very desirable that the Imperial Acts known as the Real Property Limitation Act 1874 and the Vendor and Purchaser Act 1874 should be extended to this Colony so far as the provisions of the same are applicable and with such variations and additions as may be
necessary.
(2.)—That having regard to the manner in which the Crown Lots in this Colony have been and are still being divided into Sections and such Sections into Sub-sections, and the difficulty, and in some cases the impos- sibility, thus occasioned in tracing and obtaining production of such of the Title Deeds as relate to the whole of the Crown Lot or Section before such division, it would greatly facilitate and cheapen the trans- mission of land if a system for filing official copies of all Deeds which have now to be registered in the Land Office were legalized, either by duplicate copies of such deeds being left with the originals, or by such originals being copied by clerks to be appointed for the purpose, such official copies to be taken and received as evidence of the originals, and if certified copies of the memorials of all such deeds as have already been registered were (unless and except so far as they should be proved to be inaccurate) to be taken to be sufficient evidence of the deed and of the due execution thereof so far as the same were exemplified in the
memorial.
VI. Your said petitioners also discussed several other points of practice and procedure, and came unanimously to the conclusion that without the aid of state legislation nothing effectual could be accomplished towards rescuing the land question of the Colony from its present hopeless and entangled position.
VIP The accompanying draft form of Ordinance has been prepared by your said petitioners after careful considera- tion and regard to the special nature of the requirements of the practice of conveyancing in the Colony.
20
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
VIII. If an Ordinance to the proposed effect were passed, your said petitioners have no hesitation in saying that it would be a great relief to a large majority of land-owners and would materially facilitate dealings with lands in this Colony.
Your said petitioners therefore humbly pray Your Excellency and the Legislative Council to introduce an Ordinance to the above effect and your petitioners will ever pray, &c.
A. B. JOHNSON,
Crown Solicitor.
WILLIAM WOTTON.
VICTOR H. DEACON.
ALFRED PARKER STOKES.
H. L. DENNYS.
F. H. O. WILSON
C. ERNEST BOWLES.
ERNEST R. WOOD.
W. H. R. MOSSOP.
MATHEW J. D. STEPHENS.
HENRY J. HOLMES.
CREASY EWENS.
H. T. ARKCOLL.
DANIEL E. CALDWELL.
GODFREY C. C. MASTER.
WE, the undersigned residents and landowners of the Colony of Hongkong, having read the foregoing Petition, are advised and firmly believe that if its prayer be granted the effects will be of a highly beneficial nature to the large body of residents who have interests in, and will greatly facilitate dealings with, lands in this Colony.
W. KESWICK.
T. JACKSON.
F. D. SASSOON.
WONG SHING.
C. P. CHATER.
WM. H. FORBES.
A. P. McEWEN.
J. S. LAPRAIK
by his Attorney, C. D. BOTTOMLEY.
C. D. BOTTOMLEY.
E. R. BELILIOS.
E. MACKINTOSH.
J. BELL-IRVING,
H. HOPPIUS.
A. GULTZOW.
M. GROTE.
M. E. SASSOON.
C. STIEBEL.
W. KERFOOT HUGHES.
L. POESNECKER.
C. ERDMANN.
A. McIVER.
H. W. DAVIS
by his Attorney,
FRED. T. P. FOSTER.
EDMUND SHARP
by his Attorney, FRED. T. P. FOSTER.
GRANVILLE SHARP
by his Attorney, FRED. T. P. FOSTER.
FRED. T. P. FOSTER.
J. GODFREY BIRD.
CLEMENT PALMER.
DORABJEE NOWROJEE,
F. DODWELL.
W. H. RAY.
E. L. WOODIN.
A. MCCONACHIE
Attorney for the Executors of R. J. GILMAN, Deceased.
R. J. ASHTON
by his Attorney, A. MCCON ACHIE.
A. R. HUDSON
by his Attorney, A. MCCONACHIE.
W. S. YOUNG
by his Attorney, A. MCCONACHIE.
H. G. THOMSETT.
J. P. MCEUEN
by his Attorney, H. G. THOMSETT.
R. K. LEIGH.
CHEONG KAI.
LI SING.
YU SUIWAN.
HO LAI SHI
by her Attorney, HO KAI.
WEI A YUK.
LEE TUCK CHEONG.
СНОА СНЕЕ ВЕЕ.
CHAN TAI
by his Attorney,
PUN PONG.
CHING KWAI
by his Attorney, PUN PONG.
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
FORM OF ORDINANCE ENCLOSED IN THE ABOVE PETITION.
21
!
A BILL
ENTITLED
An Ordinance for the further limitation of actions and suits relating to the recovery of land and rent and for altering and amending the law of conveyancing within the Colony of Hongkong, 1885.
W
HEREAS it is desirable further to limit the times within which actions or suits may be brought within the Colony of Hongkong for the recovery of land or rent and of charges thereon, and to facilitate the transfer of land within the Colony by means of certain amendments in the law of conveyancing: Be it therefore enacted by the Governor of Hongkong, with the advice of the Legislative Council thereof as follows:--
1. This Ordinance may be cited as The Conveyancing Ordinance, 1885.
2. The terms hereinafter mentioned shall have the mean- ings assigned to them unless there be something either in the subject or context repugnant to such construction that is to say :-
The expression "the Land Office" shall mean the
Land Office of the Colony.
The expression "the Land Officer" shall mean the person (other than the Governor) who shall for the time being have the lawful control and super- intendence of the Land Office.
The word "Land" shall extend to messuages, land, tenements and hereditaments of any tenure situate in the Colony.
The expression "the Court" shall mean the Supreme
Court of the Colony.
3. After the commencement of this Ordinance no person shall make an entry or distress, or bring any action or suit, to recover any land or rent, but within twelve years next after the time at which the right to make such entry or distress, or to bring such action or suit, shall have first accrued to some person through whom he claims, or, if such right shall not have accrued to any person through whom he claims then within twelve years next after the time at which the right to make such entry or distress, or to bring such action or suit, shall have first accrued to the person making or bringing the same.
4. A right to make an entry or distress, or to bring an action or suit to recover any land or rent shall be deemed to have first accrued, in respect of an estate or interest in reversion or remainder, or other future estate or interest, at the time at which the same shall have become an estate or interest in possession by the determination of any estate in respect of which such laud shall have been held, or the profits thereof or such rent shall have been received, not- withstanding that the person claiming such land or rent, or some person through whom he claims, shall, at any time previously to the creation of the estate which shall have determined, have been in the possession or receipt of the profits of such land, or in receipt of such rent; but, if the person last entitled to any particular estate on which any future estate or interest was expectant shall not have been in the possession or receipt of the profits of such land, or in receipt of such rent, at the time when his interest determin- ed, no such entry or distress shall be made, and no such action or suit shall be brought by any person becoming entitled in possession to a future estate or interest but within twelve years next after the time when the right to make an entry or distress, or to bring an action or suit for the recovery of such land or rent, shall have first accrued to the person whose interest shall have so determined, or within six years next after the time when the estate of the person becoming entitled in possession shall have become vested
Short title.
Interpreta- tions.
The Land Office.
The Land Officer.
Land.
The Court.
No land or rent to be recovered but within twelve years after the right of action accrued. [37 & 38 Vict., c. 57, s. 1.]
Provision for case of future estates. 137 & 38 Vict., c. 57, s. 2.]
Time limited to six years when person entitled to the particular estate out of possession, &c.
ཀ་::ཀ ་་
22
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
In cases of Infancy,
coverture or
lunacy when right of action accrues, six years to be allowed from termination of disability or previous death. [37 & 38 Vict., c. 57, s. 3.]
No time allowed for absence from Colony.
[37 & 39 Vict., c. 57, s. 4.]
Thirty years utmost allow- ance for disabilities. [37 & 38 Vict., c. 57, s. 5.]
Mortgagor to be barred at end of twelve
years from the time when mortgagee took posses- sion or from last written acknowledg- ment.
[37 & 38 Vict., c. 57, s. 7.]
in possession, (whichever of those two periods shall be the longer) and, if the right of any such person to make such entry or distress, or to bring any such action or suit, shall have been barred under this Ordinance, no person, after- wards claiming to be entitled to the same land or rent in respect of any subsequent estate or interest under any deed, will, or settlement executed or taking effect after the time when a right to make an entry or distress, or to bring an action or suit for the recovery of such land or rent, shall have first accrued to the owner of the particular estate whose interest shall have so determined as aforesaid shall make any such entry or distress, or bring any such action or suit, to recover any such land or rent.
5. If, at the time at which the right of any person to make an entry or distress or to bring an action or suit to recover any land or rent, shall have first accrued as aforesaid, such person shall have been under any of the following disabilities, that is to say, infancy, coverture, idiotcy, lunacy, or unsoundness of mind, then such person, or the person claiming through him, may, notwithstanding that the period of twelve years or six years (as the case may be) herein- before limited shall have expired, make an entry or distress, or bring an action or suit to recover such land, or rent, at any time within six years next after the time at which the person to whom such right shall first have accrued shall have ceased to be under any such disability, or shall have died (whichever of those two events shall have first hap- pened).
6 The time within which any such entry may be made, or any such action or suit may be brought as aforesaid, shall not in any case after the commencement of this Ordinance be extended or enlarged by reason of the absence from the Colony, during all or any part of that time, of the person having the right to make such entry, or to bring such action or suit, or of any person through whom he claims.
7. No entry, distress, action, or suit shall be made or brought by any person who, at the time at which his right to make any entry or distress or to bring an action or suit to recover any land or rent shall have first accrued, shall be under any of the disabilities herein before mentioned or by any person claiming through him but within thirty years. next after the time at which such right shall have first accrued, although the person under disability at such time` may have remained under one or more of such disabilities during the whole of such thirty years, or although the term of six years from the time at which he shall have ceased to be under any such disability, or have died shall not have expired.
8. When a mortgagee shall have obtained the possession or receipt of the profits of any land, or of any rent com- prised in his mortgage the mortgagor, or any person claiming through him, shall not bring any action or suit to redeem the mortgage but within twelve years next after the time at which the mortgagee obtained such possession or receipt, unless in the meantime an acknowledgment in writing of the title of the mortgagor, or of his right to redemption, shall have been given to the mortgagor or some person claiming his estate, or to the agent of such mortgagor or person, signed by the mortgagee or the person claiming through him; and in such case no such action or suit shall be brought but within twelve years next after the time at which such acknowledgment, or (if more than one) the last of such acknowledgments was given, and when there shall be more than one mortgagor, or more than one person claim- ing through the mortgagor or mortgagors, such acknowledg- ment, if given to any of such mortgagors or persons, or his or their agent, shall be as effectual as if the same had been given to all such mortgagors or persons, but where there shall be more than one mortgagee, or more than one person claiming the estate or interest of the mortgagee or mort gagees, such acknowledgment, signed by one or more of such mortgagees or persons shall be effectual only as against the party or parties signing as aforesaid, and the person or persons claiming any part of the mortgage money or land or rent by from or under him or them, and any person or persons entitled to any estate or interest, to take effect after or in defeasance of his or their estate or interest, and shall
*
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
not operate to give to the mortgagor or mortgagors a right to redeem the mortgage as against the person or persons entitled to any other undivided or divided part of the money or land or rent; and where such of the mortgagees or persons aforesaid as shall have given such acknowledg- ment shall be entitled to a divided part of the land or rent comprised in the mortgage, or some estate or interest therein, and not to any ascertained part of the mortgage money, the mortgagor or mortgagors shall be entitled to redeem the same divided part of the land or rent on payment, with in- terest, of the part of the mortgage money which shall bear the same proportion to the whole of the mortgage money as the value of such divided part of the land or rent shall bear to the value of the whole of the land or rent comprised in the mortgage.
9. No action or suit or other proceeding shall be brought to recover any sum of money secured by any mortgage, judgment, or lien, or otherwise charged upon or payable out of any land or rent at law or in equity, or any legacy, but within twelve years next after a present right to receive the same shall have accrued to some person capable of giving a discharge for or release of the same, unless in the meantime some part of the principal money or some interest thereon, shall have been paid, or some acknowledgment of the right thereto shall have been given in writing signed by the person by whom the same shall be payable, or his agent, to the person entitled thereto or his agent, and in such case no such action or suit or proceeding shall be brought but within twelve years after such payment or acknowledgment, or (if more than one) the last of such payments or acknowledgments was given.
10. After the commencement of this Ordinance no action, suit, or other proceeding shall be brought to recover any sum of money or legacy charged upon, or payable out of, any land or rent, at law or in equity, and secured by an express trust, or to recover any arrears of rent or of interest in
respect of any sum of money or legacy so charged or payable, and so secured, or any damages in respect of such arrears, except within the time within which the same would be recoverable if there were not any such trust.
11. In the completion of any contract for sale of land made prior to or after the commencement of this Ordinance, and subject to any stipulation to the contrary in the contract, twelve years shall be the period of commencement of title which a purchaser may require.
12. In the completion of any such contract as aforesaid and subject to any stipulation to the contrary therein, the obligations and rights of vendor and purchaser shall be regulated by the following rules, that is to say :-
First. Under a contract to grant or assign a term of years, whether derived or to be derived out of a freehold or leasehold estate, the intended lessee or assignee shall not be entitled to call for nor enquire into nor make any objection to the title to the freehold;
Second. Recitals statements, and descriptions of facts, matters, and parties contained in deeds, instru- ments, ordinances, or statutory declarations twelve years old at the date of the contract, shall, unless and except so far as they shall be proved to be inaccurate, be taken to be sufficient evidence of the truth of such facts, matters, and descriptions;
Third. The inability of the vendor to furnish the purchaser with a legal covenant to produce and furnish copies of documents of title shall not be an objection to title in case the purchaser will, on the completion of the contract, have an equitable right to the production of such documents; Fourth. Such covenants for production as the pur- chaser can and shall require, shall be furnished at his expense and the vendor shall bear the expense of perusal and execution on behalf of and by him- self and on behalf of and by all necessary parties other than the purchaser ;
Money charged on land and legacies to be deemed satis- fied at the end of twelve years if no interest paid nor written acknowledg- ment given meantime.
[37 & 38 Vict.. c. 57, 6. 8.]
Time for recovering charges and arrears of interest not to be enlarged by trusts for raising same. [37 & 38 Vict., c. 57, s. 10.]
Twelve years the root of title.
[37 & 38 Vict., c. 78, s. 1.]
Rules for regulating obligations and rights of vendor and purchaser. [37 & 38 Vict., c. 78, 8. 2.]
(37 & 38 Vict., c. 78, s. 2.]
[37 & 38 Vict.. c. 78, 8. 2.]
[37 & 38 Vict, č. 78, s. 2.]
L
23
24
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Trustees may sell, &c., notwithstand-
ing rules.
[37 & 38 Vict.,
c. 78, 8. 3.]
Vendor or
purchaser may obtain decision of Judge in chambers as to requisitions or objections. &c. [37 & 38 Vict., c. 78, s. 9.].
Copies of
deeds, &c.. to be made by land officer.
Notarially certified copies of powers of attorney, &c., to be regis- tered.
True copies of memorials of deeds, &c., registered prior to the
commence- ment of
Ordinance to be evidence.
Commence- ment of Ordinance.
Fifth. Where the vendor retains any part of or any interest in any estate to which any documents of title relate, he shall be entitled to retain such documents but shall, at his own expense if required, give to the purchaser notarially certified copies of such documents as he shall retain ;
Sixth. The inability of the vendor to get in the legal estate of and in any land contracted to be sold which shall have been outstanding for a period of at least twelve years immediately preceding the date of the contract shall not be an objection to title.
13. Trustees who are either vendors or purchasers may sell or buy withont excluding the application of the 10th section of this Ordinance.
14. A vendor or purchaser of land, or their representa- tives respectively, may at any time and from time to time apply in a summary manner to a Judge of the Court in Chambers in respect of any requisitions or objections, or any claim for compensation, or any other question arising out of, or connected with the contract not being a question affecting the existence or validity of the contract, and thereupon the judge shall make such order as to him shall appear just, and shall order how and by whom all or any of the costs of and incident to the application shall be borne and paid.
15. The land officer shall make and retain in the Land Office a copy (certified by him to be a true copy) of every deed, probate, letters of administration, judgment, or other instrument, or writing, whether under seal or not, which shall be registered in the Land Office under Ordinance No. 3 of 1884, or Ordinance No. 10 of 1856, and such certified copy shall be taken to be sufficient evidence of the original deed, probate, letters of administration or other instrument or writing of which it is a certified copy.
16. Where any person shall desire to register in the Land Office any deed, or other instrument, or writing, whe- ther under seal, or not, which shall have been or shall pur-. port to have been executed or signed by the attorney of any party thereto under a power of attorney or other authority in writing such person shall simultaneously with such regis- tration deposit in the Land Office a notarially certified copy of such power of attorney or other authority, and such notarially certified copy shall be taken to be sufficient evi- dence of the original power of attorney or authority of which it is a notarially certified copy, and any deed or other instrument, or writing, whether under seal or not, which prior to the commencement of this Ordinance shall have been or shall purport to have been executed or signed under or by virtue of any power of attorney or other authority in writing whether such power of attorney or other authority can be produced or not shall, unless and except so far as the contrary be proved, be deemed to have been duly and lawfully executed in pursuance of such power of attorney or other authority, and such power of attorney or other autho- rity shall, unless and except so far as the contrary be proved, be deemed to have contained full and sufficient power and authority for the execution or signature of such deed or other instrument or writing.
17. A copy certified by the land officer to be a true copy of the registered memorials of any deed or other instrument or writing which shall have been registered in the Land Office prior to the commencement of this Ordinance shall, unless and except so far as the same shall be proved to be inaccurate, be taken to be sufficient evidence of the contents, and due execution of the deed, or other instrument or writing of the memorial of which it is a certified copy.
18. This Ordinance shall commence and take effect on the
day of
1885.
I
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix No. 4.
JUDGMENTS OF THE SUPREME COURT OF HONGKONG.
No. 1.
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF HONGKONG.
ORIGINAL JURISDICTION.
Suit No. 61 of 1878.
25
•
Between Ow YEONG KWON SEK, Plaintiff,
and
TANG A LOK, Defendant.
Judgment of The Honourable Sir George Phillippo Kt., Chief Justice, delivered 21st May, 1883.
This suit, which has been pending for a long time, was brought by the plaintiff in respect of Inland Lot No. 323, which was taken by the Government in 1876 for a market, and for which certain lands were given by the Government to the defendant in exchange. Neither the plaintiff nor defendant deserve any sympathy in this case, the one having abandoned his property according to his own account, and the other having, according to his account, purchased without any title and spent money upon the land which he had so acquired.
Like other cases which have come before the Court, it shows how little in former days the interests of the Crown have been looked after, and it also seems to show that if some measures are not speedily taken to prevent it, before very long many of the titles to land in the Colony will be in a state of great if not hopeless confusion. It is admitted on both sides that in February, 1851, Inland Lot No. 323, which had been previously granted by the Crown, was assigned by the assignee of the original Crown Lessee, and that a memorial was registered at the Land office of an assignment from LOK AYEE to Ow YEONG KWON SEK. The plaintiff alleges that the land was purchased by his father for him, and that the assignment was taken by his father purposely in his name, and that his father let him into possession, and that in 1854 or about that time he built three wooden houses thereon, and let the land and premises to one WONG YEE for $9 per month, payable quarterly. That he received three quarters' rent from WONG YEE when he borrowed $100 from him upon an agreement that he should pay himself out of the rent, and shortly after left Hongkong and did not return until 1876, when he returned in consequence of some letters he received from the defendant addressed to his father in respect of this land. It further appeared from the evidence that WONG YEE had parted with the land in question to TANG ALOK, but it was alleged that the plaintiff was not the OW YEONG KWON SEK to whom the land was assigned by Lok AYEE, but that this real Ow YEONG KWON SEK OF KUM SEK was an older man, a carpenter by trade, who has never been heard of by any one for many years. That this Ow YEONG KWON SEK allowed the Crown rent to fall into arrear, when the land was sold by public auction and was bought at auction by WONG YEE for $44. There is no doubt that the defendant entered into possession and was in possession for many years but there is no satisfactory evidence of any sale by auction or purchase by WONG YEE. In 1876 the property was required by Government for a market and negotiations were opened with TANG ALOK for an exchange with him of other land for the land in question. It was soon discovered, however, that TANG ALOK had no title. TANG ALOK seems to have referred to WONG YEE, but WONG YEE had no title either. Whether the sale by auction had been mentioned to any one before or whether it was then suggested for the first time is not clear, but at any rate it appears to have been communicated to the Crown Solicitor that such was the case and the Crown Solicitor seems to have suggested a statutory declaration by WONG YEE and TANG ALOK and a surrender to the Crown by WONG YEE and TANG ALOK of the land in question and a Crown grant to TANG ALOK of the land to be exchanged. We are not informed as to when this suggestion of the Crown Solicitor was made, but TANG ALOK seems immediately to have opened negotiations with WONG YEE to induce him to sign the necessary papers. WONG YEE, however, who it is said was living at Chinese Kowloon, was not inclined to do so without being paid for his trouble, and according to TANG ALOK's own account wanted $300 for his trouble. This TANG ALOK was unwilling to pay and he wrote the following letter to the father of the plaintiff :---
(Translation.)
HONGKONG, 7th April, 1876.
SIR,
To Mr. SHUN, my benevolent brother,
I respectfully state that notwithstanding I am a great distance from you, you are always in my mind. Trusting that you and your family are enjoying perfect health and good luck, and your sons and grandsons are worthy and virtuous. I am very thankful for the good advice which you have so constantly given me when you were in Hongkong, I have lately bought a piece of ground from WONG YEE situated at Wanchai, Inland Lot No. 323. Now the British Government used the said ground for forming a market, and they agree to give the ground No. 686 Saiyingpún in exchange, but they are so dull of understanding and foolish and say that I have no deed for the former ground to hold for proof and they press me to find out a witness to give satisfactory proof before the exchange be undertaken. I understood that this
!
26
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
ground was formerly bought by you from the Government afterwards the Government sold it by auction on account of your owing certain amounts for Crown rent. WONG YEE bought the said ground at auction without a title deed, and I bought it from WONG YEE but there was no deed of transfer given either to WONG YEE nor tò̟ me.
Now, dear Sir, have you got the old deed in your hands and if so I shall be very grateful if you will kindly bring it with you as soon as possible to my house at Hongkong. If the deed is missing I beg of your goodness to come and give satisfactory proof that the ground is yours. The passage expenses on your coming here, and going back, I shall repay heavily, I hope you will not refuse. Herewith I enclose one dollar, please examine and receive. Hoping you are getting riches and enjoying health. (A card enclosed named TANG WAI CHING).
(Translation.)
To HAK SHUN, my benevolent brother,
HONGKONG, 16th May, 1876.
I respectfully state that I bought a piece of ground from WONG YEE, Inland Lot No. 323, situate at Wanchai, with three houses thereon. It was originally your ground, you left it to WONG YEE to live there. Because five quarters Crown rent were owing, therefore Government sold the ground by auction. WONG YEE says he has bought it at auction but there is no deed granted to him. Certainly WONG YEE did not buy it at auction. The deed is registered in your Crown rent is paid regularly by me in your name. Now the Government used the ground for forming a market and gave a piece of ground at Saiyingpún in exchange, but I have no deed for the ground in my hands therefore Govern- ment object to issue a deed to me and say a deed must be made to be signed by you before the exchange is undertaken. I send Mr. Woo SAM to your house and beg you will come to Hongkong with him. I shall give you one hundred dollars for your trouble. Hoping you are getting riches and enjoying good health, in haste.
name.
(Signed) TANG HOG KAI.
(Seal) TANG YUNE CHEONG.
Upon receipt of the last of these letters the plaintiff came down and it would seem that upon the plaintiff refusing to part with his interest in the land for $100 and finding that the plaintiff had no title deeds in his possession the defend- ant closed with WONG YEE for $150 and their surrender of the land was accepted by the Government and a new grant given to the defendant for the land which had been agreed to be given him in exchange. The plaintiff at once took the two letters to Mr. HOLMES to commence proceedings against the defendant and those letters have been in Mr. HOLMES' possession ever since. At the trial the defendant swore himself and produced witnesses to prove that the original owner of the land was not the plaintiff Ow YEONG KWON SEK, the son of the person to whom he had written, but Ow YEONG Kwon or KUM SEK, a carpenter who had not been heard of for many years, but I was not satisfied with the evidence. The cause has now been pending for several years since, and during all that time no better evidence can be produced by the defendant, because, I presume, no better can be obtained, and I do not see how the defendant can get over the state- ments made in his letters which he eventually admit ted were written by his direction, he well knowing the person to whom they were addressed to be the father of the plaintiff, unless he can explain how it was that he came to make such a mistake as to suppose that the plaintiff's father had anything to do with the land in question if he new all the time that it was owned by quite a different person. Several technical objections as to the admission of evidence were taken by the Attorney General, which I decided to overrule upon the trial and which decision, upon consideration, I have seen no reason to alter, and although it would have been much more satisfactory if the plaintiff had been able to produce his title deeds, yet as between him and the defendant I do not see that he ought to lose his land because he has been unable to do so. It would also have been much more satisfactory, and this case never could have arisen, if the Crown had exercised its rights years ago and entered on possession of this land. But I have to deal with matters as they stand. The plaintiff has made out to my satisfaction that he was the person in whom the land was vested in 1851, and it is admitted that since then he has done nothing to part with his rights to the land in question and that the statute of limitations does not apply in his case. That being so the question remains as to what redress he should receive. It seems to me in- equitable that under the particular circumstances of this case he should recover either the value of the original piece of the land with the improvements effected thereon or that he should recover the pieces of land which the Government have given the defendant in exchange for the original piece of land together with the improvements effected by the defendant, and it was so admitted by the plaintiff's counsel. The order of the court will be therefore such as was suggested by the plaintiff's counsel, viz.: that it be referred to the Registrar to ascertain the value of the land apart from any buildings thereon at the time it was taken over by the Government, and that the defendant shall pay to the plaintiff the amount which shall be so found to be such value, together with the costs of this suit. The defendant would have found it cheaper to have settled with the plaintiff in the first instance than to have paid $150 to WONG YEE for joining in the surrender to the Crown especially if the defendant's story was true, which appears to have been mentioned for the first time at the trial, namely that he had documents in Chinese in his possession which could not be admitted in evidence as he was not prepared with proof of their execution, but which shewed that WONG YEE had assigned to TANG ALOK his whole interest in the land many years before the surrender was made by WoNG YEE and TANG ALOK to the Crown.
:
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APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix No. 4,-Continued.
No. 2.
. IN THE SUPREME COURT OF HONGKONG.
ORIGINAL JURISDICTION.
Suit No. 98 of 1882.
27
Between Lo ON, Plaintiff,
and
LEE FOO WING, Defendant.
Judgment of the Honourable Sir George Philippo, Kt., Chief Justice, delivered 4th August, 1882.
This case came before me upon an Agreement under the Code of Civil Procedure, Section 88, and the question for my decision is as follows:-Has the defendant a legal right to the possession of No. 46, Jervois Street, Victoria, Hong- kong not barred by the Statute 3 and 4, Wm. IV. C. 27?
The premises in question were a portion of Inland Lot No. 202 which was granted by a Crown Lease dated 3rd June, 1846, to one CHING CHEONG for 75 years.
By an Indenture bearing date the 28th December, 1850, indorsed on the Crown Lease of 3rd June, 1846, and made or purporting to be made between Her Majesty the Queen of the one part and JOHN GRAHAM MORRISON of the other part After reciting that Her Majesty had been pleased to direct that the term of existing Crown Leases of lands and premises in Hongkong should be extended from the period of 75 years for the further term of 924 years, and that the said JOHN GRAHAM MORRISON had represented that all the title and interest in the within Lease had duly vested in him the said J. G. MORRISON Her Majesty leased the said Lot to the said J. G. MORRISON for the term of 924 years to be computed from the expiration of the said term of 75 years at under and subject to the like rent payable in like manner as in the original Crown Lease is mentioned in respect of the rent thereby reserved and to the like covenants provisions and agreements as are therein respectively contained. By Indenture bearing date 29th July, 1881, Mr. MORRISON by his attorney Mr. RYRIE assigned to YIU CHOW and by Indenture bearing date 28th October, 1881, YIU CHow assigned to the defendant.
It was admitted by the Attorney General who appeared together with Mr. FRANCIS and Mr. Ho KAI for the plaintiff that as far as documentary Title goes the defendant had a good Title but that he, the defendant, must prove that he has the right of possession as well as Title.
Being myself of that opinion I ruled that the defendant must show a right to possession.
Mr. McKEAN, for the defendant, then called some evidence to show that in 1868 the premises had been rebuilt after a fire by the Agent of Mr. MORRISON, but he was unable to give satisfactory evidence that such was the case. Mr. Mc- KEAN Whilst admitting present possession in plaintiff, refusing to admit 20 years adverse possession, the Attorney General called evidence to that effect which was unshaken by cross-examination and remained uncontradicted.
It was contended on the part of the defendant that the 3rd and 4th Wm. IV. did not apply to this Colony inasmuch as all lands in the Colony are held by Lease from the Crown and the Statute of Limitations did not bind the Crown who, if bound at all, come under the provisions of 9 Geo. 1II. C. 16. and several cases were cited in support of this contention. Upon examination of them however they do not appear to me to bear out the contention. One of the cases related to disseisin, and in another of the cases cited the trespasses alleged occurred prior to the Leases granted and not, as in this case, many years after. In that particular case therefore the Lessees took all the rights the Crown had not parted with. In this case the trespass originally, if it was a trespass, was not against the Crown but against the Lessee and the Crown's interest at the time was not prejudicially affected. (Dart's Vendors and Purchasers 404.)
The first entry appears from the evidence given on the part of the defendant to have taken place between the years 1855 and 1858. It does not appear whether Mr. MORRISON was or was not then in the Colony, but as it was not alleged that he was under disability during the time I conclude that he must have been in the Colony when the alleged wrongful entry was first made and that he made no objection thereto.
Mr. McKEAN also referred to Ordinance No. 3 of 1844. Now although the object of the Ordinance as stated in the preamble is "to prevent secret and fraudulent conveyances and to provide means whereby the title to real and immove- able property may be easily traced and ascertained" yet the Ordinance does not provide against merely possessory Titles in any way whatever, but merely provides for the registration of any documents affecting Title.
28
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
The Proclamation of 1st May, 1841, would seem to have provided for the abolition of merely possessory Titles up to that date and in subsequent Crown Leases the Legislature may have considered that the Crown had already provided for the prevention of merely possessory Titles, inasmuch as amongst the covenants for Title contained in the Crown Leases for which a condition of re-entry is imposed is one that "the Lessee shall not nor will let underlet mortgage or otherwise assign over or otherwise part with all or any part of the land leased for all or any part of the term demised without at the same time registering such alienation in the Land Office, or in such other office as may hereafter be instituted for the purposes of registration in the said Colony of Hongkong and paying all reasonable fees and other expenses thereon."
If the Attorney General were not counsel for the plaintiff I should perhaps have thought it necessary that he should be served with notice of this question being raised on a Crown Lease so that he might take any steps on behalf of the Crown that he might consider advisable. As it is he has notice of the suit and will as a matter of course take steps to protect the interests of the Crown if he considers such interests involved.
As the case stands at present I must hold that the defendant's right to the possession of the premises is barred by the Statute 3 and 4 Wm. IV. C. 27, which I take it is in force in this Colony as it has been decided to be in India and recognized as it has been to a certain extent by Ordinance 13 of 1864, subject to any legislatiou which may have affected
it.
As neither the Proclamation of 1841 nor Ordinance 3 of 1844 as it seems to me in any way prohibits possessory titles as between individuals or even as against the Crown, the law of England in respect thereto must be considered to
be in force here.
The defendant therefore in my opinion has not a legal right to the possession of the premises in question.
The effect of this finding is governed by the Agreement filed in the cause and is equivalent to a Judgment for the plaintiff.
No. 3.
Appendix No. 4,-Continued.
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF HONGKONG,
ORIGINAL JURISDICTION.
Suit No. 69 of 1884.
Between CHUN YIK CHUNG AND OTHERS, Plaintiffs,
and
M. J. D. STEPHENS, Defendant.
Judgment of the Honourable Sir George Phillippo, Kt., Chief Justice, delivered 6th March, 1885.
In this action the question was mainly one of boundaries between the possessors of Marine Lot 184 and Marine Lot 185.
The Plaintiffs the Owners of Marine Lot 185 complained that the defendant who was the Owner of Marine Lot 184 had pulled down a wall of a house belonging to them and was also preparing to build upon a narrow strip of land belonging to them which the defendant claimed as his property so as completely to deprive the plaintiffs of light and air through the windows of their godowns and the plaintiffs claimed $500 for damages and that the defendant might be restrained from trespassing on their land.
The hearing lasted for some days and a considerable number of maps and plans and Title Deeds were put in evidence. The viva voce evidence consisted in great part of the evidence of skilled Witnesses, Mr. DANBY on the part of the plaintiffs and Mr. HANCOCK on the part of the defendant. Their evidence, as is usual, was somewhat conflicting and if I did not see my way to come to a conclusion without deciding as to which of them was in the wrong I might have considered it necessary to refer their plans and evidence to some qualified and disinterested Surveyor for my guidance in the matter. I do not think that this is necessary, however, because their measurements were not taken from exactly the same stand points and there seems to me to be sufficient evidence to enable me to dispose of the case without reference exclusively to
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
29
either of the plans or to the measurements that are in dispute. Mr. HANCOCK's evidence was based entirely upon the lease measurements of a large block of ground which had been sold to various parties without taking into account the dealings which had taken place with regard to the land in the meantime. This might have been very conclusive had the ground remained unbuilt upon, but I do not think that we can rely entirely upon lease measurements where the ground has been built upon with the assent, express or implied, of the Government and the adjoining lot owners. Even admitting him to be correct in his assumptions and his measurements, which appear to have been made from West to East, I cannot agree with him that it amounts to an assumption, far less to proof, that there was an encroachment at any time by the Owner of Lot 184 on Whitty Street. The block in question now consists of Marine Lots 184, 185, 186, 205, 204 and 198 running along the Praya in the order named from West to East. The first reference to these Lots that was produced in evidence was in a Sale plan which was headed "Plan of Sale of Crown Land for Sale by public auction 28th June, 1861, and following days," signed by the Surveyor General and approved by the Governor.
From that plan it would appear that Lots 184, 185, 186 were, amongst other Lots, to be offered for Sale. Lots sub- sequently sold as 204 and 205 were marked Ochterlony Battery and the Lot subsequently sold as 197 was marked as reserved. These Lots all appear to lie between two Streets, one on the East and one on the West, with a Street through the middle between Ochterlony Battery and Lot 186, having the Praya on the North and Lots No. 184, 185, 186 having a road at the South, Ochterlony Battery having some reserved Land at the South and the Lot subsequently sold as 197 having another Road considerably further back from the road marked as the Southern boundary of 186 and 187 called Battery Road as its Southern boundary.
It must, however, be observed that these boundaries were not actual boundaries but simply boundaries marked upon the plan and there appears to have been no boundary actually in existence when this Sale plan was made, although the measurements of Lots 184, 185 and 186 are given on the North, South, East, and West on each Lot.
Lots 184, 185, 186 were sold shortly after at or about the same time. There purports upon the Sale plan to be a Street on the East of these Lots, a Street on the West, the Praya on the North, and a public road on the South, when in fact, as appears by the plan itself, there could have been no Streets, Praya, or public road, the plan showing low water mark and high water mark as being well inside the lots and the hill coming down where the public road should have been at the back,
How these lots were measured we have no evidence to show, but it could not under the circumstances I should imagine have been very accurately done. There seems to have been a point stretching into the sea at Ochterlony Battery beyond the extent of the proposed Praya at low water, and I presume the Northern measurements were taken from a point on Ochterlony Battery, which stood above the low water mark and almost on a level with the inside of the proposed Praya, by boat.
The Leases for Marine Lots 184 and 185 were granted to the same purchaser on the 22nd October, 1861, and for Marine Lot 186 on 2nd November, 1861. The boundaries given on the Leases are the same as mentioned in the Sale plan.
No evidence has been given as to when the Praya was made nor as to when the Streets on the East and West sides of Lots 184, 185, and 186 were laid out, nor as to when, if ever, the proposed road on the South side of these Lots connect- ing with the Streets on the East and West side thereof was made, nor has any evidence been given as to what took place on the purchasers entering into possession.
On 25th February, 1862, a Lease was granted of Marine Lot 198 which was marked as reserved on the Sale plan of 28th June, 1861, which afterwards, owing to the abandonment of the road between Ochterlony Battery and Lot No. 186, became the Westernmost portion of a larger block of land than the original block which had as its Western boundary the Western end of Lot No. 186.
By the 16th November, 1864, it seems to have been decided to sell Ochterlony Battery, to do away with the road between Ochterlony Battery and Lot No. 186, and to remove the road which was to run at the back of Lots 184, 185, 186 and to make it a continuation of the road at the back of Marine Lot 198, which was to continue along the Southern boundary of Lots 205 and 204, as on a Sale plan of that date signed by the Surveyor General and approved by the Governor I find that Battery Road is extended to the South Western end of Lot No. 184, and that the former site of Ochterlony Battery extending it back to Battery Road and including the road between Ochterlony Battery and Lot No. 186 was to be offered for Sale by auction in 2 Lots, Lots No. 204 and 205 as well as the portions of Land South of Lots 186, 185 and 184, lying between those lots and the proposed extension of Battery Road.
Lots 204 and 205 were sold and Leases of them were granted to the same purchaser on the 4th March, 1865, but the other pieces are marked on the Sale plan as withdrawn.
30
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Whether the Praya in front of these Lots was built when this Sale plan was made out or whether the purchasers of 186, 185 and 184 had entered into possession of their Lots at that time does not appear. The frontage of the Lots is in a straight line as nearly as possible parrallel to the frontage of the Praya as it was in the Original Sale plan, and the measurements of each of the pieces of Land South of 186, 185 and 184 are given.
On the 23rd March, 1866, the then Owner of Lot 186 obtained a grant from the Government which was indorsed on or attached to the Original Crown Lease of the piece of Land to the South of Lot 186 according to the measure- ments contained in the Sale Plan of 1864.
In 1877, the Owner of Marine Lot 185 applied to the Government for the piece of Land South of his Lot and between his Lot and Battery Road, and instead of granting it to him according to the measurements of the Sale plan of 1864, Mr. DANBY who was then in Government employment was sent from the Surveyor General's Office to survey and take actual measurements of the ground.
Mr. DANBY made a survey of Lots 186, 185 and 184 he found he says a well defined boundary on the Eastern side of Lot 186, and made it the Western boundary of Lot 185 he then obtained the other boundaries of Lot 185 by measurement and having obtained these boundaries he extended the Eastern and Western boundaries of Lot 185 to Battery Road, and plotted out Inland Lot No. 38 with an extension of the Eastern and Western boundaries of Lot 185 as defined by him, and having Lot 185 on the North and Battery Road on the South. The measure- ments, however, differed considerably from the measurements of the piece of Land South of Lot 185 as given in the Sale plan of 1864, and Mr. DANBY came to the conclusion that these measurements must be incorrect as he could not make them correspond with the actual holdings, particularly in the measurements of length. A Sale Plan of this Inland Lot No. 38 as laid out by Mr. DANBY was prepared and approved by the Government, and Inland Lot 38 as so laid out was subsequently sold on the 27th June, 1877, to the then Owners of Lot 185.
At that time Lot 184 was in the possession of the defendant's predecessors in title the Owners of MACDONALD's slip. They made no objection to the Western boundary of Marine Lot 185 and Inland Lot No. 38, as laid down by Mr. DANBY. In fact up to that time they do not appear to have claimed up to that Western boundary. Their buildings did not go up to the line and according to the boundary line that Mr. DANBY laid out they got considerably more than their lease measurements so that they were not likely to make any objection.
Shortly after the purchase of Inland Lot 38, the Owners of Marine Lot 185, appear to have built godowns upon the two lots along the Western boundary as fixed by Mr. DANBY.
In 1880, Mr. DANBY, who had then left the Government service, was employed by the Owners of Marine Lot 184 to survey the Lot for them he then obtained from the Surveyor General's Office a copy of the plan he had made of Marine Lot 185 and Inland Lot 38, and made out the Western boundary of Lot 184 according to the Eastern boundary that he had laid down for Marine Lot 185 and Inland Lot 38. Mr. DANBY then found that Buildings had been put along the Western boundary of those two Lots up to the line that he had marked and on the part of the Owners of Lot 184, he seems to have acquiesced in that boundary. Had those buildings remained I think we may take it that judging from Mr. HANCOCK's conduct with regard to the North Western corner of Lot 185 when he says he fonnd an encroachment, but did not feel at liberty to interfere with existing buildings this dispute with regard to boundaries would probably not
have arisen.
In 1881, the present Owners purchased Marine Lot. 185 and Inland Lot 38. There were 8 shops fronting on the Praya, and there were buildings apparently along nearly the whole length of the Western boundary as shown in the plan used by Mr. DANBY in the survey made by him for the Owners of Marine Lot 184.
Shortly after entering into possession the present owners determined to pull down the old buildings at the back of the lot, and build new godowns with windows and openings for air and ventilation on the eastern and Western sides. They got a plan prepared by Cно AYUN who is now Mr. STEPHEN'S Contractor, and that plan bears them out in their assertion that they intended to put back the walls on both the Eastern and Western sides, and in this they are uncontra- dicted although Cно AYUN might have been called as a witness for the defendant if their statements were not correct. The plan was submitted to Government and approved, and buildings appear to have been put up at once and no objection seems to have been made by any one. They also, they admit altered the wall of the Western boundary of the shops in order as they say to strengthen it, and in so doing it is admitted encroached slightly upon the line recognized by Mr. DANBY, but no objection appears to have been made by the Owners of Lot 184, at the time and there could I imagine have been no intentional encroachment as the work was done under the supervision of the well known Architects and Surveyors belonging to this place Messrs. BIRD AND PALMER. Indeed it was so slight an encroachment that I should imagine it would hardly have been perceived unless particular attention were for some reason or other called to it.
In 1884 the defendant was about purchasing Marine Lot 184, and on the 19th May he received an intimation that the Surveyor General would be prepared to grant him a new Lease of the encroachments which were assumed
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
31
to have taken place to the West and South. This was done by Mr. STEPHENS at the instance of the Government in accordance with their previous notification and, as far as I can see, he derived no appreciable benefit from the transaction. Mr. STEPHENS became the purchaser of Marine Lot 184, took an assignment of it from the then owner, surrendered it to the Crown and obtained a new Crown Lease with altered boundaries on the 13th September, 1884. These new boundaries were settled by Mr. HANCOCK from the measurements contained in the various Leases, working from West to East. He found, according to his measurements, that the block was more extensive than the Lease measurements and that most of the increase was found in Lot 184. He had instructions to make Whitty Street 30 feet, if possible, instead of 25 feet and seems to have considered himself justified in assuming, that because Lot 184 contained more land than was mentioned in the Lease, that therefore there must have been an encroachment at one time by Lot 184 on Whitty Street. But it does not appear that Whitty Street was ever at any time, or was ever intended to have been, wider than 25 feet, indeed, according to the sale plans, 25 feet appear as nearly as we can judge to have been the width intended. Now the Government sold and intended to part with the whole block of land, and I presume that, under the circumstances, the measurements were given as approximate and proportionate between the various purchasers of the different lots into which the block was subsequently intended to be actually divided. At first, as we have seen, when Lots 184, 185, 186 were sold there were intended to be two blocks with a Street dividing the block originally sold from the one that was retained in the hands of the Government. Subse- quently, as we find, the Street was abandoned and the two blocks were thrown into one. We do not know, as I have already pointed out, when the reclamations were made and the blocks laid out. Judging from probabilities one would assume that the Lots upon which the Battery originally stood would be the first reclaimed and that the work of filling up was continued at the same time both to the East and West of the land which was originally above low water mark, nor do we know whether the reclamation of Lots 184, 185 and 186 was completed before the other Lots were sold. If it was and the streets and roads were actually laid out in accordance with the sale plan, or approxi- mately thereto, then, as it appears to me, if there was any slight excess in the block the parties who had purchased the various Lots would have been entitled to have divided the excess between them, possibly paying the difference if appreciable for the increase in their holdings, as they would have been obliged to have retained their purchases if there had been a slight diminution in the quantity possibly receiving an abatement in the price and a proportionate deduction in the ground rent. If the land had not been actually reclaimed until the two blocks had been conso- lidated into one then as it appears to me the holders of the various lots would have had equal rights to have had the surplus or the loss divided between them. When the blocks were reclaimed however they do not appear to have been re-measured and divided between the parties according to their purchases. No question arises with regard to Lots 198, 204 and 205. Lots 204 and 205 seem, according to the evidence, to have been held as one Lot, and the actual boundaries seem to correspond very nearly with the actual lease measurements except in the length which both Mr. HANCOCK and Mr. DANBY agree in saying do not correspond. Mr. HANCOCK assuming that these Lots were put back from the Praya, and Mr. DANBY assuming that the road at the South was originally intended to be put further back than it actually has been. At the Eastern boundary of Lot 198 it would appear to be the exact length while each of the other boundaries decreases, and decreases in a corresponding ratio as we compare them with the measurement of the Leases until we come to the Western boundary of 184 which is about the same. Mr. HANCOCK on his plan has shown what he considers to have been the original line intended along the Praya, and Mr. DANBY and Mr. DRUITT agree with him that the actual present line of the Praya, does not agree with either of the sale plans. Mr. HANCOCK asserts that, according to the way in which he has laid out what he considers the original frontage of the Praya as it was intended to be, all the actual length measurements exactly correspond except the Western boundary of Lot 184 which ought to have been 360 feet to make it correspond with the other measure- ments of length, but is given on the Lease as 340 feet. This lease measurement he considers must have been a mistaken one, and as he thinks probably a clerical error. If this be so, and I am inclined to think it is if Mr. HANCOCK'S measurements are to be relied on, it seems probable that when the block was laid out a measurement was taken out from Battery Road of 250 feet to the Praya, and that that spot was marked as the North Eastern line of the Southern side of the Praya and that a line was taken from some temporary mark on the South Eastern boundary where, from the importance of its position, we should expect some fixed mark to be, (there being nothing to prevent a mark being placed there on the hill side), and that a line of 340 feet instead of 360 feet was run out to the Praya, and that that spot was marked as the North Western line of the Praya, the Southern line of the Praya running from the North Eastern boundary of the Lot to the South Eastern boundary, as thus ascertained, along the whole of the Lots, the intermediate boundaries of the lots as regards length not being measured, and this is borne out to some extent by the evidence of the Surveyors, Mr. HANCOCK stating that there is a well defined boundary on the North Eastern portion of the block, and Mr. DANBY stating that there was also a well defined boundary on the North Western portion of the block. But we are told that the buildings on the Praya are not in a straight line, but that the buildings on Lots 198, 204 and 205 are in a straight line but slope back from the Praya, while the buildings on Lots 184, 185 and 186 are in another straight line but sloping still further back from the Praya. If we assume
*
!
}
T
32
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
that the buildings on Lots 198, 204 and 205 were built first it might be that although built sloping back from the Praya they did not slope far enough back to reach the North Western point of the block previously referred to, but that when WING-KEE'S coal godown was built it was set far enough back with sufficient slope to go back to the North Western point. When Mr. DANBY went on the land in 1877 he did not survey Lots 198, 204 and 205, he did partially, however, survey Lot 205, and there were then buildings reaching to the Praya, and there was an Alley-way between that Lot and Lot 186.
On Lot 186 WING KEE's Coal Depôt was built, extending to the Praya; on Lot 185 there was a small building in the North Eastern corner extending to the Praya in the same line with WING KEE's Coal Depôt and in the same line with the North Western boundary of Marine Lot 184. There does not appear at that time to have been any buildings extending on to the Praya on Lot 184 but, assuming that Mr. HANCOCK is right in his presumption, it does not follow that he is right in taking his measurements of the whole block from the North Eastern corner of Lot 196. The owner of Lot 184 was perfectly justified according to his Lease in taking Whitty Street as it was laid out by the Government, 25 feet in width, as his Western boundary, and he apparently did so but if the Govern- ment had originally laid out Whitty Street as 30 feet wide instead of 25 I do not know that any of the Lot Owners, not even the Owner of Lot 184, could have complained if they too had got the measurements set out in their Leases. Be this as it may what probably did happen was that the Owner of Lot 198 took the Street to the East of his Lot as his Eastern boundary. The Owner of Lots 204 and 205 took the line of 198 as his Eastern boundary, and the Owner of Lot 186 took the line of 205 as his Eastern boundary. No dispute arises as to these boundaries. Mr. DANBY says they do not perfectly agree with Lease measurements from East to West as they are now held, but the difference is inconsiderable, aud Mr. HANCOCK says that the difference between them is so small that for all practical purposes they may be taken to be correct. The difference between Mr. DANBY and Mr. HANCOCK Com- mences at the Western boundary of 185. Mr. DANBY took the Western boundary from WING KEE'S Coal Depot extending the Western line of that building down to Battery Road. As I understand Mr. HANCOCK that would make Lot 186 encroach on the South Eastern corner of Inland Lot 38 almost to the extent of the alleged encroach- ment on the South Eastern corner of land then unallotted by Government at the South of Lot 184. Mr. DANBY on the other hand alleges that even now, after going over the whole matter most carefully, he finds that the actual mea- surements of the Southern boundary of the various Lots from the South Eastern extremity of Lot 196 to the South Western extremity as he has fixed it of Inland Lot 38 correspond nearly exactly, the measurements in the Leases being 679 feet 9 inches and the actual measurements being 679 feet 6 inches. But, however this may be, Mr. DANBY then a duly authorized Government agent, and acting in his employment as such, set out the boundaries of Inland Lot 38, which boundaries were approved by the Surveyor General and by the Governor, and Inland Lot 38 with the boundaries as fixed by Mr. DANBY was sold by the Government to the then owner of Marine Lot 185, and as extending on the South to Battery Hill Road. If there was any encroachment at all it was an encroachment on land which had not then been allotted by the Government and was not in the actual occupation of anyone. So far as Inland Lot 38 is concerned there can be no doubt, in my mind, but that Mr. DANBY's boundary must be taken to be the boundary of the land actually sold by the Government and that the Defendant is not justified in building beyond that boundary even although the land beyond it had once been actually conveyed to him by the Government. But the Western and Eastern boundaries of Marine Lot 185 were also necessarily defined by Mr. DANBY at that time. If the owners of Lot 186 had enchroached at that time, they had not encroached all the way down the line, that is to say, WING KEE'S Coal Depôt did not extend from the Praya to Battery Road and the effect of Mr. DANBY's conclusion as to the line of the Western boundary of Lot 186 was calculated to induce the owner of Lot 185 to acquiesce in it as if there was an encroachment he got his redress on the other side. With regard to the owner of 181 there is ample evidence of acquiesence in the line that Mr. DANBY eventually adopted. But it is said that Mr. DANBY's plan shows that at one time Mr. DANBY must have arrived by some other means at the same conclusion as Mr. HANCOCK with regard to the line of boundaries. If this be so it also shows that Mr. DANBY rightly or wrongly deliberately discarded that line in favour of the one subsequently adopted by him. If the boundaries were taken up to the Western boundary of Marine Lot 185 in the way I have pointed out, and if the boundary of Marine Lot 184 was taken from Whitty Street, and I see no other way in which it could have been taken under the circumstances, as the Western boundary of Lot 185 does not appear to have been defined until Mr. DANBY defined it in 1877, then it would appear that the surplus land contained in the block lay between 184, 185 and 186, and I think that until Mr. DANBY fixed the boundaries the owners of those lots if they had wished were entitled to have it divided between them. After Mr. DANBY had fixed the line I am disposed to think that, as between themselves, they were all bound by acquiescence, and the same of Lot 184 additionally so by the fact that the owner of 185 was bound by ac- quiescence to the line fixed on his Eastern boundary. Whether the owners of Marine Lot 184 and 186 could or could not have held the increased area virtually allotted to them by Mr. DANBY without any compensation to Government is a question that does not arise in this case.
i
J
1
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
33
Mr STEPHENS Surrendered Lot 184 to Government, but he could only surrender what he had acquired from his predecessor in Title, and the Eastern boundary that he had acquired from his predecessor in Title was the line laid down by Mr. DANBY in which his predecessor in Title had acquiesced. So far as the present, boundary between Lot 184 and Inland Lot 38 is concerned Mr. STEPHENS has acquired that solely from the Crown, but the Crown could not grant beyond the boundary fixed in the previous Lease. So far as the Western boundary of Lot 185 goes beyond Inland Lot No. 38 it seems to me that the Crown as well as Mr. STEPHENS are bound by the line Mr. DANBY pointed out. Mr. HANCOCK seems to admit that if buildings had been actually standing up to the line fixed by Mr. DANBY he would not have been justified in going beyond the line of buildings. What he in effect says is that the Government wanted 5 feet extra width for Whitty Street, and I found I could get that width and give Mr. STEPHENS the measurements contained in his Lease if I ran his line right up to the existing buildings on Lot 185, which I took to be on the extreme portion of that Lot. This shows the inadvisability of the officers of the Crown running their surveys and acting upon their measurements without communication with the owners of adjoining Lots. I think that if Mr. HANCOCK had been acquainted with all the circumstances of the case he would not have advised the Crown to have granted to Mr. STEPHENS anything beyond the line fixed by Mr. DANBY, and if they could have made no other arrangements, to have advised a smaller increase in the width of Whitty Street. Consequently, upon Mr. DANBY's arrangement, if Mr. HANCOCK be right, the owners of Marine Lot 185 had acquiesced in the line fixed by Mr. DANBY between 186 and 185 to their detriment, and buildings had been subsequently erected on Lot 186 up to that line. The owners of Marine Lot 185 had built up to the line fixed between 185 and 184, and they had pulled down those buildings, and rebuilt, setting their new buildings back from their line advisedly, in order to get light and air. I do not think that under these circumstances the Government, either through Mr. STEPHENS, or as originally entitled to the land in question, can justifiably grant to Mr. STEPHENS any of the ground inside the boundary line laid down by Mr. DANBY between Marine Lots 184 and 185. This being the case I do not think the defendant was justified in pulling down the plaintiff's wall, even although he might, perhaps, have been justified in removing the three inches or so that projected if he could have done so without material injury to the building. I think the amount of damages claimed, viz., $500, a not unreasonable sum, and I consider that the application for restraining the defendant from further trespassing must be allowed, and the line as marked out by Mr. DANBY must be recognised. The plaintiffs will not, however, in rebuilding the wall pulled down, be justified in extending it beyond the limits of the boundary line as now recognised. The judgment will therefore be for the plaintiffs, with costs I may add that the law with respect to acquiescence seems to me to be carefully considered and correctly laid down in Kerr on Fraud, pages 81 to 87.
No. 4.
31
Appendix No. 4, Continued.
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF HONGKONG.
SUMMARY JURISDICTION.
Suit No. 442 of 1886.
Between the Official Administrator of the Estate of LEUNG Kwong CHI, Plaintiff,
and
Ho YUNG, Defendant.
Judgment of The Honourable James Russell, Puisne Judge, delivered 22nd February, 1887.
The writ in this case was issued on 22nd April, 1886, and claimed "from the defendant the sum of $198, amount of rent of No. 64, Aplichau for three years to the date of issue of the writ." The writ was suhsequently amended to "The plaintiff, as the official administrator of LEUNG KWONG CHI, deceased, claims from the defendant the recovery of possession of No. 64, Aplichau, situate on Aplichau Marine Lot No. 7, and he also claims the sum of $198 for mesne profits."
34
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Pleadings were ordered in this case, and a petition was filed setting out that LEUNG KWONG CHI died intestate on or about the 22nd September, 1868, at Aplichau, that letters of administration were granted to the Official Admin- istrator on the 14th January, 1886, that LEUNG KWONG CHI was at the time of his death possessed (inter alia) of a messuage and premises being No. 64 situate on Aplichau Marine Lot No. 7, and that the defendant after the death of LEUNG KWONG CHI entered into possession of the house and premises and refuses to give them up. The plaintiff then prays that the defendant may be ordered to give possession to him of the house and premises, and that he may be ordered to pay $198 mesne profits.
The defendant denied that any such person as LEUNG KWONG CHI lived or died at Aplichau in the Colony of Hongkong, or that any person of that name was possessed of the premises in question. He also said that he had been in possession of the said premises since 12th February, 1886, as tenant of MOK CHEUNG the rightful owner thereof.
Mr. EwENS appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr. CALDWELL for the defendant; but the real defendant as was announced at the hearing, is MoK CHEUNG. The plaintiff's solicitor could not fix the time when the defendant Ho YUNG entered into possession after the death of LEUNG KWONG CHI.
The case for the plaintiff is that LEUNG KWONG CHI had certain lands, Inland Lot No. 19 and Marine Lot No. 7 in Aplichau, and that he lived there and carried on a trade as a rope and sail maker till 1868, when he died from the result of an accident at the age of 61. It was alleged that the title deeds had been lost or taken possession of by some of his partners, and his wife named LAU CHUK YEE lived in the country at Nam Tau, and being ignorant of English law and usages, although she knew of the existence of the property, had taken no step till last year to recover it. She and an alleged adopted son, named LEUNG FUK YAM, are admittedly the persons who would benefit by these proceedings, as the real son of the widow and the deceased, named LEUNG HI KWAN, has not been heard of since 1869, and is supposed to be dead or to have emigrated-having disappeared from Aplichau about that time after collecting debts due to his father. The mother admits this and says she got some of the money collected.
The adopted son, LEUNG FUK YAM, is said to have been of surname CHAN, and was adopted as the son of a concu- bine named LAI, who lived with the deceased as his so called second wife, the first or lawful wife, as is generally the custom here, living at her native village, and only periodically visiting Aplichau where her husband lived.
Lau Chuk Yee, the widow of the deceased, says she married her husband under the name of LEUNG KWONG CHI, that he was called LEUNG SUI WA also, and that he was also called MANG WAI, or blind AwAI. She says he was also called WAI KUN (she means WAI KIN no doubt). They were married 43 years ago, and she did not come to Aplichau till 5 years after the marriage, although the concubine LAI went with the husband. One or two years after the marriage
ざ
the husband told her about the Aplichau property and the title deeds. The witness admitted in cross-examination that she had given the name of LEUNG CHI KWONG to Mr. CALDWELL instead of Leung Kwong CHI, for it appears that she had gone to him in the first instance, when she came from the country to seek her rights. She was told of them by some woman, who took her to Taipingshau, where she found some one who took her to the lawyers, she says.
LEUNG FUK YAM said he was the adopted son that he and Hr KwAN were present at the death of LEUNG KWONG CHI, as they lived with him and the "small mother." He says that the partnership between his father and others was dissolved before his father's death. He says the father was also called HIN WA and WAI KIN (), that he had seen him write, and witness being asked to write "Wai" wrote it thus (為) as did Luм CHIU TIN, another witness called by the plaintiff.
LUM CHIU TIN says he is 39 years of age, says that he knew KwONG CHI, and was present when he died. He says the deceased was in partnership with CHEUNG A-TING and others, and that the business was called LEUNG HOP LI, but that before the death of KWONG CHI OF MANG WAI the business was burnt down, and that no business was carried on after that. He also stated that HI KWAN, the son, collected the father's debts.
LAU CHIU CHI, 33 years of age, knew LEUNG KWONG CHI as having a rope shop at Aplichau, and trading under LEUNG HOP LI.
Mr. BRUCE SHEPHERD produced the counterparts of the two Crown leases dated 16th March, 1866. One for Marine Lot No. 7, Aplichau, granted to LEUNG KWONG CHI (), and one for Inland Lot 19 granted to LEUNG KWONG CHI. He also produced the papers connected with the sale of these lands, from which it appears that Marine Lot No. 7, Aplichau, consisted of 3,600 square feet and was sold for $5, rental $7.92 per annum, on the 3rd or 4th January, 1861, and Inland Lot 19 of 4,000 was fixed at $39 as the price, and at a reserved rent of $6.60 per annum.
It appears that a notice was issued by the Government that squatters who had held licenses from the Registrar General might have the cption of buying the lots on which they had squatted at a price to be fixed by the Surveyor
*
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
35
General, and from the sale plan of Aplichau it appears that 3 houses or huts were built upon Inland Lot 19. This lot is entered in red ink figures like some other lots and the $39 are so entered.
Against the signature and seal of purchasers on the list is written opposite Marine Lot No. 7 Leung Quong ÜHEE, but the Chinese is LEUNG WAI KIN (), whilst opposite Inland Lot No. 19 is also written Leung Quong CHEE, but in Chinese LEUNG KWONG CHU (R). It will be seen from the Chinese that the characters “leung” are quite different, the first being a regular surname, but the second not a surname at all, but a word signifying good, and such as might be used in a shop name. The first name LEUNG WAI KIN might be the name "WAI KUN" which the widow and the adopted son say was one of the names of deceased, although it is to be observed that the adopted son and LAM CHIU TIN wrote the "Wai" of WAI KIN by quite a different character. The LEUNG KWONG CHU after Inland Lot 19 cannot be a Chinese name, and I understand it cannot be even a shop name. These characters are all different from that in the counterpart leases, and therefore from the name of the deceased.
For the defence the occupant was called and proved that he only rented recently the house from MоK CHEUNG, and that he had no interest one way or other in the property, but that he had paid his rent to Mox Cheung.
CHENG YUK CHEUNG or CHENG CHI TING, who is 61 years of age, and carries on rope business at Apli-chau says that the deceased was called HIN WA and was his partner with others in rope and sail making under the name of LEUNG HOP LI, that they carried on business on Inland Lot 19, and that HIN WA lived in the end house. He says that the partners were LEUNG WA CHAU, LEUNG HIN WA, MOK KWONG FAT and himself CHENG CHI TING. He said that HIN WA had two shares, and that at the sale of the lots in 1861 the ground was bought as partnership property. He states that in the end of 1867 there was a large fire at Aplichau which burned them out, and that the title deeds were burned. He produces copies of the lease got from the Surveyor General's Office after the fire, and these have been in his possession ever since. He also produced the Crown rent receipts from the beginning of 1868, and states that after the fire the LEUNG HOP LI business was wound up, and that the deceased and the others apportioned the land amongst them, the deceased having his two shares in it.
He says that the characters LEUNG KWONG CHI written in the lease were written by him, and that LEUNG KWONG CHI was a made up name representing persons in the partnership. "LEUNG" being taken for the two partners of the LEUNG HOP LI, "KWONG" from a third, and "CHI" from his own, that they had agreed to take the leases in this way in the interest of all, and that by agreement he signed and took the leases thus. When he writes the characters now there is a great similarity in the writing, but as he has had access to the documents at the land office be may have had time to practice. This old man says he has MOK KWONG FAT's share,, also LEUNG WA CHAU's, that they had no sons, and gave their interest to him. He does not claim the property the subject of this action, but recognises Mox CHEUNG's claim to it as well as the claim of another man called Li to a portion of Lot 19. He says LEUNG HIN WA'S son, HI KWAN, looked after the property after the father's death, and that Li got from the son the Western house, and MOK CHEUNG got other portions. Both refund to him a portion of the Crown rents he says, and that although “LAI" and "LAU" were known to him, none of them have ever made any claim on him.
MOK WA CHEUNG, who is the real defendant in this action, is 67 years of age and owns other lots at Aplichau. He says he bought 20 feet of the Marine Lot from LEUNG KWAN, the son, and paid $30 to him in the presence of the widow "LAU," and the concubine "LAI." The property, he says, he bought in 1869, and it was a share of the property of Leung Hop Li, a rope shop. He gives the names of all the partners and describes the fire of 1867, as burning down everything. He had a Chinese deed written out, and said “LAU' was present when it was made out, and the money was paid.
I am of opinion that there was not a person of the name of LEUNG KWONG CHI, but that the characters represented ພ “TONG" name as one of the witnesses said, and that the Official Administrator as representative of LEUNG KWONG Cr does not represent a person but an abstraction. I am also of opinion that according to Chinese ideas the son HI KWAN with the knowledge and assent of his mother Lau disposed of the interest in the land to Lr and to MoK CHEUNG which belonged to his father, although no proper title has been made to them. Indeed the grant of the Government to "LEUNG KWONG CHг" can only amount to an equitable estate in the persons and their legal representatives who com- prised the syndicate, and 2-5ths of the interest at all events would seem to have reverted to the Government as un- claimed property of intestates Mox KWONG FAT and LEUNG WA CHAU.
Judgment of non-suit.
Question of costs to stand over.
+
J. RUSSELL,
Puisne Judge.
36
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
(Copy.)
No. 73.
Appendix No. 5.
REPORT BY THE SURVEYOR GENERAL UPON THE SUBJECT OF SQUATTING.
SQUA
Surveyor General to Colonial Secretary.
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT,
30th May, 1885.
;
SIR,
I have the honour to invite the attention of His Excellency the Governor to the large sums of money of which the Colonial Treasury continues to be defrauded year after year by the free and unauthorized occupation of Government lands without payment, on the part of persons who are perfectly well able to pay Crown rent or squatters fees, and I beg to submit some propositions which I think will do much towards systematizing the collection of squatters fees and put- ting a stop to the practices here exposed.
2. It is the custom of many new comers from the continent who desire to settle down on British territory and live under our laws, to look about them for eligible sites on Government land. These persons are generally very sly. They watch a favourable opportunity, and suddenly running up a house on the ground selected, make themselves thoroughly at home before the Police or other authority has realized the trespass which may or may not go undetected. No applica- tion having been made for the land at any Government Office, of course no rent ever reaches the Colonial Treasury, and the Police, who have neither the time or the training to attend to land matters, are unable to exercise the systematic control necessary to avert this incessant land-thieving and deprivation of legitimate revenue to the Government.
3. Another dishonest practice still more common among squatters is to obtain a licence for a plot of very small dimensions, bearing a correspondingly very small fee, and then to occupy, by virtue of the licence obtained, an area twice, three times, or even five times larger than that which they pay for.
4. An equally common ruse is to take out a Squatter's licence for twelve months, paying the fees corresponding to this term, and at its expiration, to forget to call and renew the licence or pay further fees, but to remain all the same in occupation of the ground until detected.
5. Another aquatter's device, very lucrative, and much in favour with the shrewder class of well-to-do natives of Victoria, is to take out squatter's licences in the villages at the usual very low Government scale of fees, and then to sublet these squattings to villagers at high rates, thus pocketing handsome profits from a class of tenure the main condi- tion of which is, that the licensee shall not sublet.
6. In addition to the four primary specific types of abuse set forth in paragraphs 2, 3, 4 and 5, there are other com- pound frauds, if I may so term them, consisting of combinations of the four radical ones. For instance, a combination of 2 and 5 is not infrequent by which a man first steals a piece of Crown Land, and after trespassing on it for a time, and thus establishing a sort of fancied right, lets it out to somebody else for a consideration pocketing the receipts until detected.
7. An equally favourite combination is that of 3 and 4, under which a man takes out a squatters licence for a very small plot with a correspondingly very small fee, and that only for 12 months, after which period he discontinues the licence and the payment of fees, but continues in occupation largely expanding his boundaries.
8. A third combination is that of 4 and 5 by which regular and authorized squatter discontinues his licence after a time, and consequently the payment of his fees, but continues to sublet the ground to tenants and to pocket the receipts.
9. A fourth combination of 3, 4 and 5 is more complex, but by no means infrequent. A man takes out a squatter's licence for a very small plot of ground with a correspondingly very small fee. He then gradually expands his boundaries, and occupies an area much larger than his licence warrants. Having done this, he discontinues the licence altogether and consequently the payment to Government of the fee corresponding even to the smaller area and having thus freed himself from any payments to the Crown, he sublets the ground to others for a consideration which he pockets.
10. I am often successful in finding out these abuses, but as in most instances of detection they prove to have been of long standing, I am satisfied that a large proportion of the squatters on Crown Land are either unauthorized or com- mitting in each case some one or more of the irregularities described in the preceding paragraphs to the detriment of the Public Revenue.
1
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
37
11. The existence of these abuses cannot be a matter of surprise to the Government if it pauses to consider the system under which land is occupied by squatters, and if it bears in mind that there is no machinery save the very im- perfect one of the village Police wherewith to prevent trespassing, to deter the transferring and subletting of liceness, or the occupation of areas in excess of those specified in the licences, or the non-renewing of licences and the falling inte arrears of fees on the part of the squatters.
12. Under the present system, there are a limited number of fixed squatters enrolled in the books of the Registrar General and from these that Officer collects the fees with regularity, though he has no proof that they are not in occupa- tion of areas greatly in excess of those for which they pay. But the bulk of the squatters in this Colony are not enrolled in the Registrar General's books.
12. In addition to the very limited number of squatters permanently registered in the Registrar General's Office, there are a great number of applicants who receive their squattings from this office yearly, paying in their fees for the same to the Registrar General. It is left entirely to these applicants to return at the expiration of the year and apply for a renewal of their licences. If they do not come back for a renewal at the expiration of the year, there is no renewal, and no consequent payment of fees to the Registrar General, yet on the other hand there is no proof that these people are not in continued occupation and enjoyment of the ground or that they have not let it to tenants for a consideration which they have arranged to pocket.
14. These evils must continue until the Government establishes efficient machinery for their prevention, as well as a proper system of registration of all squatters in the Colony. I therefore beg to make some recommendations in this connexion.
15. I advise that on and after the 1st of January next, the name of every actual squatter in the Colony be registered in a Squatters Roll to be kept by the Treasury. The Registration to be divided into districts, to contain full particulars as to locality, area of squatting and amount of yearly fee payable in advance. This is merely an extension of the present Registrar General's Squatters Roll so as to include the whole of the squatters in the Colony in lieu of only a portion as heretofore. The transfer of the Squatters Roll from the Registrar General's Department to the Treasury is proposed for reasons that will be submitted presently.
16. That all persons registered in the Treasury Squatters' Roll receive yearly from the Surveyor General corres- ponding licences (in English and Chinese), setting forth the conditions of the tenancy, the area of the squatting and amount of yearly fee. That no licence be issued unless the squatter shall have been previously registered in the Treasury Squatters' Roll, and that å new Squatters' Roll be framed every year.
17. That a Land Bailiff be appointed by Government and attached to the Public Works Department, whose duty it shall be to perambulate continually every district of the Registry both in the Island and Kowloon in order to make sure, by close personal inspection and surveillance, from day to day, that in every case the occupation of Crown Land by a squatter is not a trespass but a bona fide occupation by virtue of a licence in accord with the terms of the Treasury Squatters' Roll.
18. That the Land Bailiff shall immediately upon discovery report to the Surveyor General the existence of un- authorized occupiers of Crown Land together with the areas illegally appropriated by them, and that such trespassers be confirmed in their holdings if unobjectionable and be made to pay the usual squatters' fees plus a penalty for the tres- pass, or if, on sanitary or other public grounds such unauthorized occupation of public lands be objectionable, that such trespassers be proceeded against according to law or be summarily ejected.
19. That the Land Bailiff shall immediately upon discovery, report to the Surveyor General any areas in occupation by squatters, in excess of those specified in their licences, and that at the option of the Government, the squatters shall either be made to pay for these excesses of area at the same rate per square foot as their original holding plus a penalty for the trespass, or else that they be made to return to their original boundaries on pain of forfeiture of their licences.
20. That the Land Bailiff be a carefully selected intelligent European Officer of the relative rank of a Police Inspector. That he be paid at the same rate as a Police Inspector, and that he have a chair allowance to enable him to move about quickly from district to district, and that he be allowed the assistance of the Police Interpreter, generally attached to each village Police Station, and that he be also conceded some small allowance to defray the cost of steam- ferries and boat hire.
21. That as a rule no more squatters' licences be issued by Government except for strictly rural districts, and that in the City of Victoria and its suburbs, and in the village of Yau-ma-Ti, Hung-Hom, Mong-kok, Shaukiwan, Aberdeen, Stanley, Aplichao, and such other centres of population as His Excellency the Governor may approve, no more building land be alienated except on small and inexpensive building leaseholds. This principal has been, in fact, already approved by His Excellency and is partly in force.
38
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
22. That the Government scale of fees for squatters' licences be revised from time to time, and be brought
up to the standard of modern values. At the present time the appraisals for land held under squatters licences, are based on prices fixed by the late Mr. CALDWELL quondam Registrar General. Land values quoted in the days of Sir JOHN DAVIS and Sir GEORGE BONHAM are no longer applicable. I am of opinion that the duty of appraising squattings from year to year might properly be left to the Surveyor General of the day. This duty devolves on him in the disposal by auction sale of leaseholds and in the valuations for Crown resumptions of Government allotments, and there is no reason there- fore why squattings, which are of less importance, should not be subjected equally to his periodical valuations. It is to be presumed that his prices would be fair and equitable. At present the scale of fees charged for squattings, while equitable in many of the poorer districts, is far too low in the richer. It is these almost nominal fees charged by Go- vernment which have been such a temptation to speculators to hire Government land under squatters' licence for the purpose of subletting it to others at great pecuniary advantage to themselves. Valuations for squattings should be made yearly or every two years in the same way as the valuations for municipal rates and taxes.
23. I am of opinion that the salary of a Laud Bailiff would be more than amply recouped in increased squatters' fees and that the cost of such an appointment will not therefore be unproductive.
24. I recommend the transfer of the Squatters' Roll from the Registrar General's Office to the Treasury, because I understand the latter has greater facilities for collecting revenue, and because also it is not impossible the services of the
• Land Bailiff might be utilized by the Treasurer for other purposes of tax gathering and distraining.
25. I am credibly informed that the bays and waters of the Island are every year parcelled out among themselves, by the same sea squatters, who without anybody's leave stake out the most eligible fishing grounds for their own sole use and benefit. Nobody is allowed to encroach within the precincts of these stakes. As Hongkong waters should be opened to every body wishing to fish in them, I would submit the desirability of some enquiry into these sea-squattings, and if it turns out that they tend in any way to induce a monopoly of fishing in Hongkong, I think such monopoly tending to raise the price of food, should be discountenanced by Government.
26. I annex a return of the squatters in the Colony, both the permanent ones on the Registrar General's Roll and the twelve-monthly ones. It will be perceived that the aggregate revenues derived from these two sources amount only to $1,508, a sum totally inadequate, looking to the intrinsic value and extent of the areas occupied.
27. If His Excellency the Governor approves of the institution of a Squatters' Registry as recommended in para- graph 15, a Board of three or more Officers will have to be appointed to personally examine in detail every district of the Island, and every actual squatter's holding in every district and the area and extent of each holding, carefully registering the name of each holder, the area occupied, and the corresponding yearly fee to be paid to Government. The work of the Board will be most arduous and they should receive compensation for it. It will be desirable that one member of this Board should be the person who will receive the post of Land Bailiff.
!
14
I have, &c.,
(Signed),
J. M. PRICE, Surveyor General.
:
4
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
39
Appendix, No. 6.
Statement in tabular form of the information obtained by Mr. SAMPSON in 25 Villages,
shewing that large quantities of land are held by Squatters rent free and tax free or
on payment of Police Rates only.
40
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
IN OCCUPATION OF
STATEMENT IN TABULAR FORM OF THE INFORMATION OBTAINED BY MR. SAMPSON IN
RENT FREE AND TAX FREE OR ON
NAME OF VILLAGE.
IN OCCUPATION OF ORIGINAL HOLDERS OR THEIR
DESCENDANTS.
Registrar General's List.
No. of Houses.
No. of Houses paying Police Rates.
Area of Buildings as per Licences.
Actual Area of Build-
ings in Occupation.
vated Land in Occu-
pation.
Area in Excess of
Amount shewn in
Cultivated Land Area
as per Registrar General's List.
Actual Area of Culti-
Area of Buildings.
No. of Houses.
No. of Houses paying
Village House Rent.
No. of Houses paying Police Rates.
Wongneichong,.
Caroline Hill,
New Sookunpoo,
Sookunpoo,
Tunglowan,
Pakshuiwan,
Tsattszmui,
Shuitseungwan,
:
:
:
:
22
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
117
94
97
25,000
11,220
40,000
28,780
6
2
2,512
2,512
:
:..
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
31
28
12,925
18,218
:
:
:
:
:..
:.
10
5
16 18,732
33,000 40,300
7,300
7
6
Co
6
18,767
Wongkoktsui,
6
6
6 6,353
Chunloong,
Akungngam,
14
12
14
14,782
10
:
:
:
:
10
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
5,056 25,395
Tsaiwan,
20
18
15
24,538
240,244 1,306,800 1,066,556
N
Sheko,
64
28
29
Hoktsui,
11
37,253 284,460 1,089,000 804,540
7,390 17,820 653,400 635,580
10
1
1,625 1,625
1
1,300
2,964
Tooteewan,
3
1
931
10,890 10,890
Tytamtuk Bay,........
:
Tytamtuk,.
Tytam,
210
20
13
13
17
12
9
11,456 115,500 696,960 581,460
12,455 100,980 348,480 247,500
1
1
225
286
Tungtauchau,
11
:
:
:.
:
:
:
:
:.
8,150 66,000 348,480 282,480
:
:
:.
:
عصر
:
:
:
:
N
100
53
46 40,860 784,080 3,267,000 2,482,920
N
:..
400
400
·
840
704
:
796
874
►
3
4,700
5,565
Totals,...... 412 260 255
: 226,667 | 1,653,304 7,801,310|6,148,006 59
41 30,379
58,543
Wongmakok,
Choonghom Bay,
Repulse Bay,
Tongpo (Hanchow Is.),
Deep Water Bay,
Little Hongkong,
:
Area in Excess of
Amount as per Li-
cences.
LICENSED SQUATTERS.
Area of Cultivated
Land as per Licences.
Actual Area of Culti- vated Land in Occu- pation.
Area in Excess of Amount as per Li-
cences.
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
25 VILLAGES SHEWING THAT LARGE QUANTITIES OF LAND ARE HELD BY SQUATTERS
PAYMENT OF POLICE RATES ONLY.
IN OCCUPATION OF UNLICENSED
SQUATTERS.
No. of Houses.
No. of Houses paying Police Rates.
Area of Buildings.
Area of Cultivated Land.
Total No. of Houses.
Total No. of Houses paying Village House Rent.
Total No. of Houses paying Police Rates.
Total Area of Buildings.
Total Area of Cultivated Land.
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
sq. ft.
53
:
:
1,364
:
127
94
69
99
28,876
40,000
40,000
53
5,293 22,242 22,242
16
11
5,952
47
:
1
1,152 26,400
1
37
17
32,250
37
:
:
:
:
40,000
39
24,170
22,242
1,152
26,400
17
32,250
:
:
75,900 125,400 49,500
6
1,705
6
:
1,705
125,400
61
15
23,272 105,900 83
31
42,004
146,200
:
:
2288
20
11
14,889
25,800
27
17
33,656
25,800
23
8,168 130,680 29
6
∞
14,521
130,680
5,739 30,000
9
:
5,739
30,000
20,339
1,664
26,400 26,400
888
23
10
13,791 12,000 42
12
29
53,968
12,000
28.
10
13,260 13,560 50
18
26
39,423 1,376,760
:
:
:
61
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
17
6
8,085
86
28
36
48,302
1,089,000
2
810
13
:
136
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:.
:
8,200
653,400
1
1
931
:
10,890
12
:
:
:
:
2,910
:
12
2,910
:
20
13
13
11,456 696,960
8
2
:
:
:
:
:
:
2,319
1,000
2,200
26
12
10
15,060
348,480
2
:
15
4
1,205 21,890
11
78
865 43,560 174,240 | 130,680
8
17
4
3,566
4,012
1,812 10,890 10
11
:
:
:
:
:
1,000
10,350
348,480
1,605
21,890
704
4,012
14
53
33333
2,686
10,890
53
49,991 3,441,240
28,164 168,102 348,282 180,180 355
86 189,461 407,120 | 826
260
381
474,671 · 8,556,712
1
41
}
42
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix, No. 7.
SPECIMENS OF GRANTS AND LICENCES ISSUED BY THE GOVERNMENT OR 4
GOVERNMENT OFFICERS.
(No. 1.)
FORM OF CROWN LEASE UNDER THE SEAL OF THE COLONY AND SIGNED
BY THE GOVERNOR.
THIS INDENTURE, made the
day of
One thousand eight hundred and eighty-
BETWEEN OUR SOVEREIGN LADY VICTORIA, by the GRACE of GOD, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, Queen, Defender of the Faith, Empress of India, of the one part, and
of the other part. WHEREAS by certain Letters Patent under the Great Seal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, made and dated at Westminster, the Fifth day of April in the Sixth Year of the Reign of Her said Majesty, the Island of Hongkong and its Dependencies were erected into a Colony, and full power and authority to the Governor of the said Colony of Hongkong, for the time being, were given and granted in the Name of Her said Majesty, and on Her behalf (but subject nevertheless to such provisions as might be in that respect contained in any Instructions which might from time to time be addressed to him by Her said Majesty,) to make and execute, in the Name and on the behalf of Her said Majesty, under the Public Seal of the said Colony, grants of Land to Her said Majesty belonging, within the said Colony, to private persons for their own use and benefit, or to any Persons, Bodies Politic or Corporate, in trust for the public uses of Her said Majesty's Subjects there resident, or any of them; AND WHEREAS under and by virtue of certain other Letters Patent passed under the Great Seal of the United Kingdom, made and dated at Westminster, on the Ninth day of April, in the Fortieth Year of the Reign of Her said Majesty, constituting the Office of Governor and Commander-in-Chief of the Colony of Hongkong and its Dependencies and of a Commission under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual and Signet, bearing date the
in the
Year of the Reign of Her said Majesty,
day of
was constituted and appointed Governor and Commander-in-Chief of the said Colony of Hongkong, and its Dependencies; NOW THIS INDENTURE WITNESSETH, that in consideration of the sum of
and
of the yearly rent, covenants and stipulations hereinafter reserved and contained, by and on the part and behalf on the
said
Executors, Administrators and Assigns, to be paid, done and performed; HER SAID MAJESTY QUEEN VICTORIA, DOTH hereby grant and demise, unto the said
Executors, Administrators and Assigns, ALL that piece or parcel of Ground situate, lying and being [here describe parcels] together with the message or messuages, tenement or tenements, erections and buildings now standing and being thereon, and all the easements and appurtenances whatsoever to the said demised premises belonging, or in any-wise appertaining. EXCEPT AND RESERVED unto Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors and Assigns, all Mines, Minerals and Quarries of Stone in, under and upon the said premises, and all such Earth, Soil, Marl, Clay, Chalk, Brick-earth, Gravel, Sand, Stone and Stones, and other Earths or Materials, which now are or hereafter during the continuance of this demise, shall be under or upon the said premises, or any part or parts thereof, as Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors and Assigns may require for the Roads, Public Buildings, or other Public Purposes of the said Colony of Hongkong; with full liberty of Ingress, Egress and Regress, to and for Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors and Assigns, and Her and their Agents, servants and workmen, at reasonable times in the year during the continuance of this demise, with or without horses, carts, carriages and all other necessary things into, upon, from and out of all or any part or parts of the premises hereinbefore demised, to view, dig for, convert and carry away, the said excepted Minerals, Stone, Earths and other things respectively, or any part or parts thereof respectively, thereby doing as little damage as possible to the said
Executors, Administrators, or Assigns; AND ALSO SAVE AND EXCEPT full power to Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors and Assigns to make and conduct in, through and under the said premises, all and any public or common sewers, drains, or watercourses TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the said piece or parcel of ground and premises hereby expressed to be demised, with their and every of their appurtenances, unto the said Executors, Administrators and Assigns, from the
One thousand eight hundred and eighty
day of
for and during and unto the full end and term of Nine hundred and
Ninety-nine Years from thence next ensuing and fully to be complete and ended: YIELDING AND PAYING therefor yearly and every year the sum of
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix, No. 7,-(Continued.)
43
ia Current money of the said Colony of Hongkong, by equal half-yearly payments, on the Twenty-fourth day of June and the Twenty-fifth day of December, in every Year, free and clear of and from all Taxes, Rates, Charges, Assessments and Deductions whatsoever charged upon or in respect of the said premises or any part thereof, the first harlf-yearly payment of the said Rent becoming due and to be made on the
One thousand eight hundred and eighty for
AND the said
day of
Heirs, Executors, Administrators and Assigns doth hereby covenant, with Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors and Assigns by these presents, in manner following, that is to say, that the said
Heirs, Executors, Administrators, or Assigns shall and will yearly, and every year, during the said term hereby granted, well and truly pay or cause to be paid to Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors and Assigns, the said yearly Rent of clear of all deductions as aforesaid on the several days and times and in the manner hereinbefore reserved and made payable; AND ALSO that
the said
Executors, Administrators, and Assigns shall and will during all the said term hereby granted, bear, pay and discharge all taxes, rates, charges and assessments whatsoever, which now are or shall be hereafter assessed or charged upon or in respect of the said premises hereby expressed to be demised or any part thereof. AND ALSO that the said
Executors, Administrators, or Assigns, shall and will, before the expiration of the first year of the term hereby granted, at his or their own proper costs and charges, erect, build and completely finish fit for use in a good, substantial and workmanlike manner and with the best materials of their respective kinds, one or more good, substantial and safe brick or stone messuage or tenement, messuages or tenements, upon some part of the ground hereby demised, with proper fences, walls, sewers, drains, and all other usual or necessary appurtenances, and shall and will before the expiration of the said first year lay out and expend thereon the Sum of
at the least, which said messuage or tenement, messuages or tenements, shall be of the same rate of building, elevation, character and description, and shall front and range in a uniform manner with the buildings (if any) immediately adjoining in the same Street, and the whole to be done to the satisfaction of the Surveyor of Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors, or Assigns. AND ALSO that he the said
Executors, Administrators and Assigns, shall and will, from time to time, and at all times hereafter, when, where, and as often as need or occasion shall be and require, at his and their own proper costs and charges, well and sufficiently Repair, Uphold, Support, Maintain, Pave, Purge, Seour, Cleanse, Empty, Amend and keep the messuage or tenement, messuages or tenements, and all other erections and buildings, now or at any time hereafter standing upon the said piece or parcel of ground hereby expressed to be demised, and all the Walls, Rails, Lights, Pavements, Privies, Sinks, Drains and Watercourses thereunto belonging, and which shall in any-wise belong or appertain unto the same, in, by and with all and all manner of needful and necessary reparations, cleansings, and amendments whatsoever, the whole to be done to the satisfaction of the Surveyor of Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors, or Assigns; AND THE SAID messuage or tenement, messuages or tenements, erections, buildings and premises, being so well and sufficiently repaired, sustained and amended, at the end, or sooner determination of the said term hereby granted, shall and will peaceably and quietly deliver up to Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors, or Assigns; AND ALSO that the said Executors, Administrators and Assigns shall and will during the term hereby granted, as often as need shall require, bear, pay and allow a reasonable share and proportion for and towards the costs and charges of making, building, repairing, and amending, all or any roads, pavements, channels, fences and party-walls, draughts, private or public sewers and drains, requisite for, or in, or belonging to the said premises, hereby expressed to be demised or any part thereof, in common with other premises near or adjoining thereto, and that such proportion shall be fixed and ascertained by the Surveyor of Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors, or Assigns, and shall be recoverable in the nature of rent in arrear; AND FURTHER that it shall and may be lawful to and for Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors or Assigns, by Her or their Surveyor, or other persons deputed to act for Her or them, twice or oftener in every year during the said term, at all reasonable times in the day, to enter and come into and upon the said premises hereby expressed to be demised, to view, search and see the condition of the same, and of all decays, defects and wants of reparation and amendment, which upon every such view or views shall be found, to give or leave notice or warning in writing, at or upon the said premises, or some part thereof, unto or for the said
Executors, Administrators, or Assigns, to repair and amend the same within Three Calendar Months then next following, within which said time or space of Three Calendar Months, after every such notice or warning shall be so given, or left as aforesaid, the said
Executors, Administrators or Assigns will repair and amend the same accordingly; AND FURTHER that the
said
Executors, Administrators or Assigns, or any other person or persons, shall not nor will, during the continuance of this demise, use, exercise or follow, in or upon the said premises or any part thereof, the trade or business of a
44
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix, No. 7,-(Continued).
Brazier, Slaughterman, Soap-maker, Sugar-baker, Fellmonger, Melter of tallow, Oilman, Butcher, Distiller, Victualler or Tavern-keeper, Blacksmith, Nightman, Scavenger, or any other noisy, noisome or offensive trade or business whatsoever, without the previous licence of Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors, or Assigns, signified in writing by the Governor of the said Colony of Hongkong, or other person duly authorized in that behalf; AND ALSO that
the said
Executors, Administrators or Assigns, shall not nor will, let, underlet, mortgage, assign, or otherwise part with, all or any part of the said premises hereby expressed to be demised, for all or any part of the said term of Nine hundred and Ninety-nine years, without at the same time registering such alienation in the Land Office, or in such other Office as may hereafter be instituted for the purposes of Land Registration in the said Colony of Hongkong, and paying all reasonable fees and other expenses thereon. PROVIDED always, and it is hereby agreed and declared that in case the said yearly rent of
hereinbefore reserved, or any part thereof, shall be in arrear and unpaid by the space of twenty-one days next over, or after any or either of the said days whereon the same ought to be paid as aforesaid, (whether lawfully demanded or not,) or in case of the breach or non-performance of any or either of the convenants herein contained, and by or on the part and behalf of the said
Executors, Administrators or Assings, to be kept, done and performed, then, and in either of the said cases, it shall and may be lawful to and for Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors, or Assigns, by the Governor of Hongkong, or other person duly authorized in that behalf, into and upon the said premises, hereby expressed to be demised, or any part thereof, in the name of the whole, to re-enter, and the same to have again, retain, repossess and enjoy, as in Her or their first or former estate, as if these presents had not been made; and the said Executors, Administrators and Assigns, and all other occupiers of the said premises thereout and thence utterly to expel, put out and amove, this Indenture or anything contained herein to the contrary notwithstanding. PROVIDED also, and it is hereby further agreed and declared that Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors and Assigns, shall have full power to resume, enter into, and re-take possession of all or any part of the premises hereby expressed to be demised, if required for the improvement of the said Colony of Hongkong, or for any other public purpose whatsoever, Three Calendar Months' notice being given to the said
Executors, Administrators, and Assigns of its being so required, and a full and fair Compensation for the said Land and the Buildings thereon, being paid to the said
Heirs, Executors, Administrators, or Assigns, at a valuation, to be fairly and impartially made by the Surveyor of Her said Majesty, Her Heirs, Successors, or Assigns, and upon the exercise of such power the term and estate hereby created shall respectively cease determine and be void. IN WITNESS whereof the said
duly authorized by Her said Majesty as aforesaid, has executed these presents, and hereunto set the Public Seal of the Colony of Hongkong aforesaid, in the Name and on the behalf of Her said Majesty, the day and year first above written.
Registered.
(No. 2.)
FORM OF AGREEMENT WITH SURVEYOR GENERAL TO ERECT VERANDAHS
To the SURVEYOR GENERAL.
SIR,
OVER CROWN LAND.
Guarantee No.
of 188
HONGKONG,
188
Verandah
over
Lot No.
hereby agree, in consideration of being permitted by His Excellency the Governor to erect Crown Land adjoining house No. Hongkong, during the construction of the said Verandah in no way to deviate from the plan thereof supplied, signed and deposited herewith in the Office of the Surveyor General.
II.— further agree for
heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, that
will not at any future time make any addition or alteration to the said Verandah by erecting any partition therein or by enclosing any portion thereof, nor shall any one make any use of
Bath Room Urinal Water Closet Sleeping Apartment. Store nor allow any rain or other water to be projected therefrom on to the thoroughfare.
or Cook Room
as
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix, No. 7,-(Continued).
45
HI-That- will always keep the said Verandah in good repair and will paint and cleanse the same whenever required by the Surveyor General to do so.
IV. That will defray all expenses of the maintenance of the footway under the said Verandah
and of any granite paving or alterations to the same, on the Schedule of Prices in use in the Surveyor General's Office. That after the erection of the Verandah will always keep the footway clear of all goods, articles of trade, or anything whatsoever, and will sweep the same every morning.
V. That will always give free ingress to the Surveyor General, or any Officers duly authorized to enter the premises and examine the Verandah
VI. And that should the land over which
Verandah is to be erected be at any future time required by the
Government for any Public Work, improvement, or other purpose, or should any of the houses or tenements erected on the aforesaid Lot in any way contravene clause VII, hereby undertake on receipt of a notice in writing from the Surveyor General, given with the sanction of His Excelleney the Governor, to remove at own expense the whole of the structure within three months' time from the date of the receipt of such notice, and without any compensation whatsoever from the Government.
Verandah being erected over Crown Land,
hereby
VII. In consideration of the privileges afforded by undertake, in reference to the arrangement of all dwellings to be constructed upon the Lot before named during the continuance of such privileged encroachment, that with a view to improve the sanitary condition of the said houses the following regulations shall be observed, viz. :~~
1. So long as a continuous blank wall forms the back of any Tenement not adjoining a side street, an open yard shall be provided between the house and its kitchen of the full width of the said house and of a depth proportionate to the number of stories contained therein, viz., 4 feet deep for every house of two floors high (including the basement and ground floors), 5 feet deep for every house three floors high, and increasing 1 foot in depth for every additional floor in height beyond.
▾
2. That the said yard shall not at any time be tiled over or covered in except by such bridges (roofed on the top floor only) of a width of not over 4 fect each as may be necessary to afford access to the kitchens from the upper floors, and that the said yards shall be paved with granite.
3. That in case the party or external walls of such contiguous yards shall be built up above the ground floor there shall be provided on each side of every yard and at or about the level of every floor an aperture for ventilation through such party or external wall of a size of not less than 6 feet by 3 feet, in which no windows, jalousies or obstruction shall be placed, other than iron bars for the protection of property.
4. That the utmost endeavours shall be used to cause the Tenants of the houses to keep the said open yards in such free and clean condition as shall allow of the continuous passage of air through them on the level of every floor from one end of such block of buildings to the other.
VIII.-And further agree for
heirs, administrators and assigns that the breach of any, or either
of the Clauses herein contained shall be deemed a nuisance and shall, if thought necessary by the Surveyor General, be proceeded against under Clauses Nos. 17 and 18 of Ordinance No. 8 of 1856.
WITNESS.
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Crown Lessee of.....
Lot No.
}
46
No.
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix, No. 7,-(Continued).
(No. 3.)
FORM OF SQUATTER'S LICENCE SIGNED BY THE SURVEYOR GENERAL.
SQUATTER'S LICENCE.
Permission is hereby granted to Mr.
PUBLIC WORKS' DEPARTMENT,
to occupy a plot of ground at
measuring
for the period of one year commencing from the date hereof in consideration of the payment of a fee of
cents receipt of which is hereby acknowledged and subject to the conditions endorsed hereon.
CONDITIONS OF LICENCE.
188
Surveyor General.
dollars
1. This Licence shall cease and become void upon the death of the Licensee or in case he shall cease to reside in the Colony
or transfer this Licence to or permit the same to be used by any other Person.
2. The Surveyor General may revoke this Licence at any time by giving One Month's Notice of such revocation to the Licensee, and in every such case the Licensee shall be entitled to a return of a proportionate part of the Licence Fee for the unexpired term of the Licence.
3. Notice in the Hongkong Gazette of the Revocation of this Licence shall be sufficient in all cases where personal notice
cannot be effected.
4. This Licence does not grant permission to erect buildings of any kind. For this purpose reference must be made to the
Surveyor General stating what kind of structure it is intended to erect.
5. This Licence is not transferable.
(No. 4.)
AGREEMENT made the
day of
BETWEEN Registrar General for the Colony of Hongkong, for and on behalf of Her Majesty Queen VICTORIA, (hereinafter. called the Lessor) of the first part (hereinafter called the Lessee) of the second part and
FORM OF REGISTRAR GENERAL'S AGREEMENT FOR TENANCY OF CROWN BUILDINGS.
One thousand eight hundred and eighty-
(hereinafter called the Surety) of the third part.
Witnesseth
1. The Lessor agrees to let, and the Lessee agrees to rent All
from the
month from the
day of
day of
One thousand eight hundred and eighty-
for the term of one Calendar and so from month to month until this Agreement shall be determined at the end of any month by one party giving to the other one month's previous notice or as hereinafter mentioned at the monthly rental of
Dollars payable in advance within the first seven days of each month of this tenancy.
2. The Lessee hereby agrees that during the said term he will duly and punctually pay the said rent free from all rates, taxes, and other assessments in respect of the said premises.
3. The Lessee also agrees that he will not during the said term pull down nor alter the said premises, nor any part thereof, and that he will during the said term keep the outside and inside of the said premises in the same state of repair as they are at present.
4. The said premises are let to the Lessee to be used as a
stall only during the said term, and the I
hereby agrees not to carry on any other trade or business there during the said term, nor to assign, nor underlet, with the possession of the said premises without the Lessors consent in writing.
5. That in case any payment of rent shall be in arrear in payment for more than ten days, or in case the L fail to perform this agreement, or any part thereof, then it shall be lawful for the Lessor immediately to re-en possession of the said premises, and to determine the tenancy hereby created.
6. And lastly in consideration of the premises the Surety hereby agrees with the Lessor to guarantee pauctual payment by the Lessee of the said rent as aforesaid, and the due performance by the Lessee of thi AS WITNESS the hands of the said parties.
No.
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix, No. 7,-(Continued).
(No 5.)
FORM OF RECEIPT BY REGISTRAR GENERAL OR TREASURER FOR ORIGINAL
VILLAGERS' RENT AND CULTIVATED LAND.
RECEIVED from
of House No.
and Cents
for Cultivated land Rent for the year 188
Registrar General's Office,
188
for House Rent and
and Cents
W
47
Appendix, No. 8.
RETURN FURNISHED BY THE NAVAL AUTHORITIES.
The Vice-Admiral, Commander-in-Chief China Squadron, to the Officer Administering the Government of Hongkong.
SIR,
"AUDACIOUS
AT SEA
14th March, 1887.
Lat.
6. 54. N. Long. 106. 59. E.
In reply to Your Excellency's letter G of the 11th ultimo, No. 38, on the sale and tenure of Admiralty property in the Colony of Hongkong, I have the honour to forward you herewith a report which I called for from Commodore MORANT, and with which I entirely concur.
His Excellency
The Hou, W. H. MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government,
HONGKONG.
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
R. VESEY HAMILTON,
Vice-Admiral.
SIR,
Commodore Morant's remarks relative to certain Questions of the Land Commission (Hongkong) on the subject of the sale and tenure of the Land of the Colony.
AT
"VICTOR EMANUEL HONGKONG, 7th March, 1887.
In reply to your memo. No. 73 of the 12th ultimo on the Acting Governor's letter of the 11th of the same month No. 38G, I beg to enclose a statement from the Officer Superintending Admiralty works whom I called upon to reply as far as he was able to the queries enumerated in the Governor's letter, to which I beg to append the following remarks for your
consideration.
Question No. 64.-The only obstruction that the Naval Authorities offer to the wishes of the Colonial Government is that of objecting to the Praya being extended in front of the Naval Yard in Victoria, and this I believe would be sanctioned under certain conditions, if the Military Authorities handed over the North Barracks and adjacent ground to the Admiralty; the correspondence on this subject with your predecessor is I believe in your office.
Question No. 96.-I am of opinion that it would be advantageous to the public service, if the Naval Yard establishment could be moved from the present site in Victoria to the West side of the Kowloon Peninsula, as at present we are very much cramped for room and there is no depth of water alongside our pier, and having already stores and the Torpedo establishment at Kowloon, great inconvenience besides a considerable amount of extra expense is entailed by having two establishments so far apart from one another.
Question No. 97. The position most suitable for a new establishment is from the Police Camber at Kowloon to the Naval Yard, having a good depth of water alongside the sea frontage, perfectly protected from the prevailing winds, this land is now in the occupation of the Kowloon Wharf Company, P. & O. Company, and Mr. E. SHARP, but Piers have been
48
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix, No. 8,-(Continued).
built out and Godowns erected, therefore a considerable sum would be required to purchase this Company out. This site is the best the Colony in my opinion, but I believe objected to in the early days of the Colony owing to its exposure to bombarthunt from an enemy's ships, when the forts were situated close in, but though still liable to this objection in a mmon degree, the forts now being constructed are far off, its advantages of depth of water shelter, and space, far outweigh the off chance of a stray shell, or so, damaging the buildings, stores, &c., and which the present Naval establishment at Victoria is not altogether free from.
There is however an alternative not so advantageous in point of depth of water, but yet by reclamation could be made available, viz., the bay North of the Kowloon Yard which if filled in and a sea wall built extending from the present outer wall of the Kowloon Naval Yard to the point opposite, with the adjacent unoccupied land, would make a very efficient establishment, and if the War Department could be induced to allow the necessary official dwelling houses to be built on the hills surrounding this bay, a very efficient establishment could be created, and being in a ring-fence so to speak, more super-
vision would be exercised at less cost.
Question No. 98.--Undoubtedly the site now occupied by the Naval Establishment is one of the most valuable lots in the Colony, having one front in the Queen's Road and the other on the sea.
Question No. 99.-I believe the Hongkong Government would more than cover the expenses.
Question No. 100.-This does not come withiu my province.
Vice-Admiral R. VESEY HAMILTON, C.B.,
Commander-in-Chief,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
GEO. DIGBY MORANT,
Commodore.
STATEMENT OF THE OFFICER SUPERINTENDING ADMIRALTY WORKS, HONGKONG.
COMMODORE,
64. The property held by the Naval Authorities amounts to 214.3R. 5P. and the attached statement shows the detail and occupation.
96. Naval Yard 4A. 3R. 26P. (the Seamens' Hospital not considered in the City).
100. I cannot say.
16th February, 1887.
(Signed) A. BROOKE,
Maj., R.E.
Victoria,
STATEMENT OF LAND AT HONGKONG OCCUPIED BY THE NAVAL AUTHORITIES.
Situation.
Lot. Area.
A. R. P.
HowToccupied.
4. 3. 26 Steam Factory, Boiler Makers' and Carpenters' Sheds, Stores, Offi- cers Quarters & Police Barracks.
6. 3. 33 Seamens' Hospital, Surgeons Quar-
ters, &c.
4. 3. 23 Commodore's Quarters, Sanitarium
for Officers.
Victoria, Mount Shadwell,...
620
Victoria, Mount Gough,.
63
Kowloon,.......
Stone Cutters' Island,
nil
nil
Kowloon,........
nil
nil
5. 0. 3 Seamens' Quarters, Coal and other
Stores, Torpedo Establishment. A rifle range to 600 yards.
Do.
400
* No record.
•
Remarks.
It is proposed to build a new Officers' and an additional new Seamens' Sanitarium.
These ranges though used by the Naval Authorities are not Admi- ralty property..
(Signed) A. DE V. BROOKE
Major, R.E.
14th February, 1887.
:
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix, No. 9.
RETURNS FURNISHED BY THE MILITARY AUTHORITIES.
The Major-General Commanding in China and Straits Settlements, to the Officer Administrating
the Government of Hongkong.
49
SIR,
HEAD QUARTERS,
HONGKONG, 26th February, 1887.
With reference to your Excellency's letter No. 37 G. of the 11th instant, and the questions of the Land Commission to which my attention is invited; I have the honour, in forwarding a Copy of the Commanding Royal Engineers' Memorandum thereon, to state, as regards my own opinion, that the removal of the Garrison "to places outside the city limits," would be a highly imprudent and dangerous proceeding.
The first requisite, in the event of Hongkong being attacked, is that its small Garrison should be placed as is fortunately the case at present in the most central position for rapidly manning the harbour forts, occupying the passes over the hills at the back of the town and their approaches from the South, and pouring in reinforcements wherever danger threatens.
A glance at the map will shew that there is no other possible locality outside the city limits which fulfils these conditions, especially as regards the land front facing South the portion to be defended extending only from Stanley Gap on the one side to Belcher's Point on the other.
I might proceed further to shew how necessary is a deep sea frontage for our communications with the harbour forts and in connexion with the Arsenal, Laboratory, Commissariat and Submarine Mining Establishments, but hope all this will be readily understood, and that I need say no more of our requirements in a tactical or administrative sense.
11
For the protection of the European Community and as a plate of refuge for them, the Government Officials, Treasury, &c., &c., the present cantonment is equally well adapted. It is close to our Government Offices and business quarter of town, has the necessary clear space nearly all round it for defensive purposes, and stands in the most central position for striking out right or left in the event of a rising of the enormous and ever increasing Chinese Population.
+
In a sanitary point of view the present Barracks are very satisfactory more particularly those on the sea shore, and occupying new ground has always proved most injurious to the health of the troops for several years afterwards.
Moreover our present position on completion of the Praya extension offers ample means of expansion to meet the requirements of a largely increased Garrison and provide for a large Hospital on shore on the breaking up of the old hulk, "Meeanee," now used as a Hospital.
It appears to me also very questionable whether such removal, as suggested, would prove a financial success for the Colony, considering the costly character of the Barrack and other Military Buildings and the large extent of ground they cover consequent on their detached state (for sanitary reasons) and the open spaces to be left for parade purposes.
Neither would the Medical Authorities probably agree to an occupation of new Barracks for two years from the time the foundations were laid and meanwhile the money expended would be unremunerative and the troops have to remain where they are.
Taking all this into consideration, together with the increased area to be allotted to provide for a corresponding increase of Garrison,—would the profit realized by the Public on any exchange of ground (a considerable sea frontage being indispensable) cover the cost of all the buldings required for a new Cantonment?
The higher considerations referred to in the earlier part of this letter will, I feel sure, prevent the War Department from entering into any scheme for the removal of the Garrison from its present Cantonment and I have only touched upon the financial question in order to allay, if possible, any disappointment in the matter.
I am as desirous as any member of the Legislature of seeing the town of Victoria improved in the direction indicated, Fraya extended and tramway communication established from Belcher's Point to Causeway Bay and I hope much further still,—but all this can be done I submit without any removal of the Garrison.
the
50
APPENDIX TO REPORT FROM THE LAND COMMISSION OF 1886-87.
Appendix, No. 9,-(Continued.)
Your Excellency is aware how constantly I have urged the War Office to contribute towards the expense of the Praya extension and I think, as previously intimated verbally, that if a strong case were made out to the Secretary of State for the Colonies and he conferred with the War Office on the subject a satisfactory solution might be arrived at.
His Excellency
The Honourable W. H. MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government,
Hongkong.
I have &c.,
(Signed),
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Commanding in China and Straits Settlements.
Memorandum of the Colonel Commanding Royal Engineers.
A. M. S.
No. 64.
About 337 acres is held by the Military Authorities; a portion of this (as at Stone Cutters' Island and at the Peak) is undefined.
There are restrictions on land being occupied for building purposes; the chief of these are at the Peak, Town Gun, Belcher's Point, Kowloon Peninsula, Lyemun and Stone Cutters' Island. The amount is undefined, it being the practice to ask the consent of the Military Authorities before permitting building rights to be acquired where they may interfere with
the defences.
No. 96. By the Military about 84 acres. The Establishments could not be removed as it is necessary to concentrate the bulk of the Forces in the city, and to maintain the Military Establishments there also.
No. 97. There is land available at the Peak, Stone Cutters' Island, Kowloon Peninsula, and elsewhere for a portion of the Garrison, if it were considered desirable to dispose of them in that way, but see preceeding answer.
17th February, 1887.
(Signed),
A. T. STORER,
Col. C.R.E.
239
5 No.
87.
HONGKONG.
DESPATCH RESPECTING EXTENSION OF THE GOVERNOR'S LEAVE.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 7th January, 1887.
The Secretary of State for the Colonies to the Officer Administering the Government of Hongkong.
HONGKONG.
No. 65.
SIR,
DOWNING STREET,
24th November, 1886.
I have the honour to acquaint you that I have received an application from Sir GEORGE BOWEN, supported by a Medical Certificate, for an extension of his leave of absence from Hongkong, and that I have granted an extension of leave without specifying any period. He will therefore not resume the Government in February next, and I think it probable that the administration will remain in your hands until April or May next.
1
The Officer Administering the Government of
HONGKONG.
I have, &c.,
(Signed)
EDWARD STANHOPE.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 1.
FRIDAY, 27TH AUGUST, 1886.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
11
17
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the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer. (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON.
WONG SHING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to notice.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 21st May last, were read and confirmed.
His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government addressed the Council.
PAPERS.---The Acting Colonial Secretary by direction of the Officer Administering the Govern- ment, laid upon the table the following papers :-
No. Report of the Commission appointed to consider the question of insufficient accom-
modation in Victoria Gaol.
No. 1
35 1886 36
Correspondence respecting the German Mail Steamers.
No. 18 Despatch respecting the withdrawal of Ecclesiastical Grants in Hongkong.
37
No. T Despatch respecting Sir GEORGE BOWEN'S Departure from the Colony.
1886
THE LATE MR. F. BULKELEY-JOHNSON.-Read Colonial Office Despatch, No. 33, of the 24th April, 1886, containing letters to and from Mrs. JOHNSON regarding the death of her late husband.
FINANCE COMMITTEE-Read the Minutes of the Finance Committee of the 15th and 20th ultimo, Nos. 16 and 17) having reference to a motion made by Mr. MacEwEN, that the meetings should be held with open doors.
Read also the Minutes of the Finance Committee of the 22nd ultimo (No. 18) reporting on the following votes :-
(Finance Committee, 22nd July, 1886.)
C.S.O. 1470 of 1886.
PAYMENTS IN EXCESS OF THE ESTIMATES FOR 1886.
ESTABLISHMENTS. Cadets.
Second moiety of an honorarium, sanctioned by the Secretary of State, to Mr. HILLIER, Acting Chinese Secretary at the British Legation, for superintending Chinese studies of Cadets in Peking, (Re-vote, 8th May, 1885),.....£50 @ 3/7=$
Medical.
279.06
U.S.O. 222 of 1886.
Additional salary to the Caretaker at the Mortuary, to act also as Postmortem attendant, for 6 months, @ $10 per month,.
60.00
C.S.O..
1694 of 1886.
Lazaretto on Stone Cutters' Island.-Salary of the Staff, viz.: Wardmaster at $40 a month, 5 Nurses at $8 each a month, 1 Čook at $8 a month,-in all $88 per month, say for 3 months,.
264.00
C.S.O. 1620 of 1886.
....
Salary of 2 Watchmen for the Lazaretto,-one at $9, and one at $8 per month, for 5 months,
93.50
C.S.O. 1272 of 1886.
SERVICES EXCLUSIVE OF ESTABLISHMENTS. Sanitation.
Compensation for Cattle destroyed during the recent Epidemic, being half of
the assessed value,..
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that these items be passed.
The Colonial Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
.$
723.00
1
રે
With reference to the first item (Cadets), Mr. MACEWEN gave notice that at the next meeting.
Council he would make a motion on the question of Student Interpreters.
of
QUESTIONS.—Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked how many sittings of the Law Committee had taken place since the Committee was formed in 1883?
The Acting Attorney General replied.
Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked how many sittings of the Public Works Committee had taken place since the Committee was formed in 1883?
The Surveyor General replied.
MOTION. Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, moved that in future all matters of Public interèst, and more particularly the voting of Public Funds, be discussed openly in Council, and not, as heretofore, at private meetings of the Finance Committee.
Mr. MACEWEN then addressed the Council.
Mr. RYRIE seconded the motion, and addressed the Council.
Mr. SASSOON addressed the Council.
• The Acting Attorney General addressed the Council and moved, as an amendment, the following resolution :-
"That it is not necessary to interfere with the present practice of the Council which has been in existence for many years, and which was unanimously adopted by the Standing Rules and Orders of the Council dated the 10th April, 1884."
The Colonial Treasurer seconded and addressed the Council.
The Chief Justice addressed the Council.
The Officer Administering the Government addressed the Council. The Council divided.
For.
Mr. WONG SHING.
Capt. THOMSETT.
THE SURVEYOR GENERAL.
THE TREASURER.
THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL.
THE ACTING COLONIAL SECRETARY.
THE CHIEF JUSTICE.
Amendment carried by a majority of three.
Against.
Mr. BELL-IRVING.
Mr. MACEWEN. Mr. SASSOON. Mr. RYRIE.
BILL ENTITLED THE FRENCH MAIL STEAMERS ORDINANCE CONTINUATION ORDINANCE, 1886.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO MAKE TEMPORARY PROVISION FOR SECURING THE STATUS OF GERMAN MAIL STEAMERS WITHIN THE PORTS OF THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
The Acting Attorney General moved, and the Acting Colonial Secretary seconded, that the Standing Orders be suspended.
Question-put and passed.
On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, these Bills were read a second time, and committed.
of
Mr. RYRIE moved that a clause be added to the German Mail Steamers Bill embodying the terms para. 4 of the Earl of ROSEBERY'S Despatch to Count HATZFELDT of the 26th April, 1886, (Paper §§).
The motion was not seconded.
Bills reported without amendment.
On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, these Bills were read a third time.
Question put that these Bills do pass.
Bills passed, and numbered respectively as Ordinances 22 and 23 of 1886.
SUPPLEMENTARY APPROPRIATION BILL, 1885.-On the motion of the Acting Colonial Secretary, seconded by the Colonial Treasurer, this Bill was read a first time.
The Acting Colonial Secretary gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the second reading of this Bill.
ADJOURNMENT.--The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 17th proximo, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 17th day of September, 1886.
W. H. MARSH,
Administering the Government.
4
+
ARATHOON SETH. Clerk of Councils.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 2.
FRIDAY, 17TH SEPTEMBER, 1886.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
""
""
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the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON.
WONG SHING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 27th ultimo, were read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minutes by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
W. H. MARSH.
(1.)
C. O. Desp. 106 of 1886.
C.S.O.
1793 & 2106
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $435 for a compassionate allowance to Mrs. SAMPSON, widow of the late First Boarding Officer in the Harbour Department, being the equivalent of 3 months' salary and personal allowance of her late husband, who was in the service of the Colony for nearly 18 years, and gave the. highest satisfaction in the discharge of his duties.
Government House, Hongkong, 28th August, 1886.
W. H. MARSH.
(2.)
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of of 1888. $510 for laying Gas pipes, erecting seven Lamps, and constructing a Platform for accommodating
Bandsmen in the Government Gardens.
·
Through the courtesy of the Colonel and Officers of the Northamptonshire Regiment,. the Band of that Regiment has played in the Gardens generally one evening every week since the beginning of the year, except when prevented by the weather. A large and appreciative audience generally attends to listen to the music. At first, there were no lights; afterwards some Chinese lanterns were supplied, but, when there was any wind they were blown out. It is proposed to erect seven Gas lamps in the part of the Gardens where the Band plays. They would only be lighted when required, and it is estimated, that the cost would be about 60 cents a night. The Colonel Commanding the Regiment has also represented the necessity of having a movable Platform for accommodating about 50 Bandsmen. His Excellency thinks that the Council will not hesitate to vote the small sum asked for in aid of an entertainment which appears to be deservedly popular.
Government House, Hongkong, 28th August, 1886.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that these Minutes be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
PAPERS.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following papers:-
38
No. 188 Despatch respecting the German Mail Steamers.
1886
No. 1 No. 1
39
No. 1
No.
1886
Correspondence respecting a proposed Lighthouse on Gap Rock or its vicinity. Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government on the
Estimates for 1887.
Correspondence respecting the eviction of Squatters at Kennedy Town.
Despatch respecting the recent scarcity of Water.
3
QUESTIONS.-CARGO-BOATS.-Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked the following question :-
What conclusions have been arrived at by the Commission which was appointed by the
Government in November, 1885, to enquire into the Cargo-boat question?
The Acting Colonial Secretary referred to Mr. RYRIE who was the proposer and Chairman of the Committee.
Mr. RYRIE addressed the Council.
Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked the following questions :-
SQUATTERS AT KENNEDY TOWN.-Is it true that no proper legal steps were taken to evict the
Squatters at Kennedy Town?·
Is it true that no arrangements were made for housing the people before pulling down their
shanties ?
Is it true that many of them are now houseless?
If such is not the case, to move for papers shewing that the Government did take legal steps,
did make previous arrangements, and that none are now houseless.
The Acting Attorney General replied, and laid upon the table, by command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, copies of correspondence on the subject (paper No. 16). MOTIONS.-EUROPEAN INTERPRETATION DEPARTMENT.-Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice,
moved :-
That a European Interpretation Department be established forthwith, and addressed the
Council.
Mr. RYRIE seconded the motion and addressed the Council.
The Acting Attorney General addressed the Council.
The Chief Justice addressed the Council.
Mr. WONG SHING addressed the Council.
The Acting Colonial Secretary addressed the Council.
The Treasurer addressed the Council.
Mr. MACEWEN then gave notice that at the next Meeting of Council he would move the appoint- ment of a Committee to consider the question.
LIGHTHOUSE ON GAP ROCK.-Mr. MAÇEWEN, pursuant to notice, called for the Correspondence between Capt. MCLEAR of H.M.S. Flying Fish and the Government, with the minutes thereon, respecting a Lighthouse on Gap Rock or its vicinity, and wished to move a resolution on the subject. The Officer Administering the Government addressed the Council, remarking that Mr. MACEWEN had not stated what his resolution was.
Mr. MACEWEN addressed the Council.
The Officer Administering the Government replied, and laid on the table some correspondence on the subject (paper No. 8).
40
THE APPROPRIATION BILL FOR 1887.-The Acting Colonial Secretary moved the First Reading of this Bill, and referred to the papers on the subject laid on the table (paper No. 1996).
The Treasurer seconded,
Question-put and passed."
T886
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that the Standing Orders be suspended.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time, and referred to the Finance Committee.
THE SUPPLEMENTARY APPROPRIATION BILL FOR 1885.-The Acting Colonial Secretary moved the second reading of this Bill.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time and referred to the Finance Committee.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned sine die.
Read and confirmed, this 1st day of October, 1886.
J. M. GUTIERREZ,
Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 3.
FRIDAY, 1ST OCTOBER, 1886.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Kat.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWart.
"}
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the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON.
WONG SHING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS Jackson,.
on leave).
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to notice.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 17th ultimo, were read and confirmed. MINUTE. Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Govern-
ment:
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $368.95 for general overhaul and repairs to Health Officer's Steam-launch Blanche and hire of a Steam-launch while the repairs are being executed.
As this work was represented as urgent, it had to be undertaken at once, without waiting till the necessary money could be voted.
Government House, Hongkong, 1st October, 1886.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that this Vote be approved.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
REPORTS OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary laid on the table the Reports of two meetings of the Finance Committee (Nos. 19 and 20), having reference to the Supple- mentary Estimates, 1885, and the Estimates, 1887.
VOTES CONSIDERED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary moved, and the Treasurer seconded the following Votes which had been considered by the Finance Committee:
Extraordinary Public Works.
For the construction of Mount Gough Police Station,
Question-put and passed.
Miscellaneous Services.
......
$17,000.00
Gratuity to Mrs. SAMPSON, widow of the late first Boarding Officer in the Harbour
Master's Department, $435.
Discussion ensued.
Mr. MACEWEN addressed the Council.
Mr. RYRIE addressed the Council.
The Acting Colonial Secretary then informed the Council that he was authorised by the Officer Administering the Government to propose for approval a vote to Mrs. SAMPSON of.........$ $ 870.00.
Question-put and passed.
Maintenance of Government Gardens:·
For laying Gas Pipes, erecting seven Lamps, and constructing a Platform for
accommodating Bandsmen in the Government Gardens,
.$
510.00
Question-put and passed.
5
•
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གྲྭ
ܐ܂
INTERPRETERS.—Mr. MACEWEN, in pursuance of private notice given to His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, addressed the Council with reference to the question of Euro- pean Interpreters in the Colony, and asked if Government would appoint a Commission to enquire into this important subject.
The Acting Attorney General said that the Government had no objection to appoint a Commission to examine into this matter.
Mr. MACEWEN consented to take a seat on this Commission.
QUESTION. THE PRINTERS AND PUBLISHERS ORDINANCE.-Mr. RYRIE, pursuant to notice, asked the following question :-
Is it the intention of the Government to redeem the pledge given by the Attorney General to the Un-official Members of Council previous to the third reading of The Printers and Publishers Ordinance, 1886, namely, that he would embody the English Newspaper Act in an Ordinance to supersede this temporary measure; if so, when will the Bill be brought before the Council?
The Acting Attorney General replied.
THE SUPPLEMENTARY APPROPRIATION BILL FOR 1885.-On the motion of the Acting Colonial Secretary, seconded by the Treasurer, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported without amendment.
On the motion of the Acting Colonial Secretary, seconded by the Treasurer, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered 24 of 1886.
THE APPROPRIATION BILL FOR 1887-On the motion of the Acting Colonial Secretary, seconded by the Treasurer, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
During the progress of this Bill, the following discussions ensued:-
SURVEYOR GENERAL'S DEPARTMENT.
The Dredger.
Mr. MACEWEN addressed the Council, and objected to the voting of $1,000 for a European Engineer, and $12,000 for dredging the fore-shore.
The Surveyor General addressed the Council on the subject.
The Acting Attorney General addressed the Council.
Mr. RYRIE addressed the Council.
No change was made.
LIGHTHOUSES.
Mr. MACEWEN addressed the Council with reference to the proposed Gap Rock Light.
His Excellency replied that this subject was under consideration.
POLICE DEPARTMENT. ·
The Vehicular Traffic.
Mr. MACEWEN addressed the Council on this subject, and pointed out that it was suggested by the Finance Committee, that the fees on Jinrickshas should be increased to $1 a month, and that the number of licences should be increased to 600 for Vehicles and 500 for Chairs.
The Treasurer moved that the whole question of public Vehicles be referred to a Committee of Enquiry consisting of the following Gentlemen :--
The Honourable J. BELL-IRVING,
THE CAPTAIN SUPERINTENDEnt of Police, THE ACTING REGISTRAR GENERAL,
The Honourable THE TREASURER.
Mr. MACEWEN seconded the motion which was carried.
GOVERNMENT GARDENS AND PLANTATIONS.
The Afforestation Vote..
The Acting Attorney General referred to a reduction of $2,000 in the vote for tree planting, and pointed out that the general opinion of the Finance Committee was, that they would like to see the full amount granted if possible for tree planting, and that no reduction should be made in this vote.
His Excellency said that he could not sanction any increase, but that this question might be considered during the course of the following year.
WORKS AND BUILDINGS.
The Public Park in Wongnaich'ung Valley.
Mr. MACEWEN said that it would be a great boon to this Colony if this work could be carried out as soon as possible by increasing the vote to $25,000.
His Excellency said that he could not hold out any hopes of increasing this vote for next year, but it might be taken into consideration in preparing the Estimates for 1888.
The Chief Justice said that it would be better to let this matter stand over for the present, and that it would be rather premature to recommend the Government to spend $25,000 on the Wongnaich'ung Valley until we get the whole scheme of Extraordinary Works.
MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES.
Reuter's Telegrams.
The vote for Miscellaneous Services was increased by inserting the sum of $1,662 for Reuter's telegrams which had been omitted.
The Crown Agents' Remuneration.
Discussion ensued on this subject.
No change was made.
The Military Contribution.
.
Discussion ensued on this item as to the desirability of fixing the amount of the Military con- tribution in Dollars.
The vote was passed without amendment.
On the motion of the Acting Colonial Secretary, seconded by the Treasurer, the Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed and numbered 25 of 1886.
The Council then considered the Estimates of Extraordinary Public Works.
No change was made and the vote was passed.
The Lock Hospital Estimates were considered and passed.
ADJOURNMENT.—The Council then adjourned sine die.
Read and confirmed, this 12th day of November, 1886.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
9
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 4.
FRIDAY, 5TH NOVEMBER, 1886.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
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the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.) the Colonial Treasurer, (ALERED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON.
WONG SHING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave).
Pursuant to Proclamation, the Council met. The Chair was taken by the Chief Justice as Senior Member.
At 4 o'clock P.M., the Clerk of Councils read the Proclamation convening the Council, as follows:-
No. 14.
[L.S.] W. H. MARSH.
1
PROCLAMATION.
By His Excellency WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George, Officer Administering the Government and Commander-in-Chief of the Colony of Hongkong and its Dependencies, and Vice-Admiral of the same.
In exercise of the powers in me vested as Officer Administering the Government aforesaid, I, WILLIAM HENRY, MARSH, do hereby proclaim that a Session of the Legislative Council of Hongkong shall commence and be holden for the despatch of business on Friday, the 5th day of November, 1886, at the hour of four o'clock in the afternoon, in the Legislative Council Chamber, in the City of Victoria, within the said Colony; and the members of the Legislative Council are hereby required to give their attendance at the said time and place accordingly.
Given under my hand and the public seal of the Colony, at Government House, this 30th day of October, 1886.
By Command,
GOD SAVE THE QUEEN.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Acting Colonial Secretary.
His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government then came into the Council Chamber, and was pleased to speak as follows:-
HONOURABLE MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL,
As I shall in all probability be soon relieved of the responsible duties of administering the Government of this Colony, it would obviously be imprudent for me to make any statements, which might pledge the Governor, regarding the business that will be transacted during the ensuing session. 2. There are, however, some public measures either already under consideration, or in regard to which recommendations have been received from Her Majesty's Secretary of State for the Colonies, which ought to be pushed on as soon as possible.
3. As regards the Financial position of the Colony, the Acting Colonial Secretary and Auditor General, in his report of 16th September last accompanying the Estimates for next year, stated that he anticipated that the Revenue of the present year, which had been estimated at $1,230,973, would reach $1,304,000. The actual receipts for the first three quarters of the year have been $1,031,380, or very nearly four-fifths of that amount. There is therefore every reason for believing that his antici- pations will be realized.
4. It is, however, very necessary to continue to exercise strict supervision over the expenditure of the Colony, for the year 1888 will commence, (as will be seen at page 3 of next year's Estimates) with a probable balance in hand of only Add to this the balance of the Loan, say
there will consequently be only
.$115,000
$230,000
.$345,000
10
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applicable to the extraordinary works already commenced, for the completion of which during 1888, the following sums will be required:
Tytam Water Works about,
Victoria College,.. Police Buildings,
Military Defences,
$12,000
55,000
70,000
170,000
$307,000
Nothing, it will be observed, has been set down for Sanitary Works during 1888. Means must be devised, when the Estimates for that year are prepared, for providing funds for this important object.
5. Amongst the measures to which I have referred in para. 2 is a Bill dealing with the Triad and other Secret Societies, as also another regulating the carrying and possession of arms, both which have already been drafted and submitted to the Colonial Office. These Bills were recommended by a Commission which I appointed some time ago to inquire into representations made to me by the Captain Superintendent of Police and also by the Superintendent of the Gaol, respecting the growing power of the Triad Society. The proceedings of this Commission were necessarily confidential, and it was only on this understanding that much of the evidence was obtained. The Secretary of State has already approved of the proposal to pass a new Bill dealing with Triads.
6. Another important measure which will be introduced early in the Session is a Bill for the prevention of abuses connected with the so-called adoption of female children, and domestic service by female children. The necessity of some legislation on the subject has been long recognized, and is shewn by the fact that at the present moment there are nearly 200 girls of tender age who are being taken care of under the direction of the Registrar General, assisted by the Po Léung Kuk, and who, but for that care, would probably be consigned sooner or later to a life of infamy. The powers which the Registrar General possesses are however considered inadequate for the purpose in view. Difficulties of a legal and constitutional nature have hitherto prevented the introduction of the Bill. But these difficulties have been now overcome, and it only remains for the Legislature to deal with the Bill, the principle of which has been approved by the Secretary of State.
7. The Secretary of State has also expressed his approval of a suggestion made by the Superin- tendent of the Gaol in his annual report, that prisoners who have earned a remission of sentence should be placed, as in England, under the supervision of the Police, so that if found returning to a criminal career they might at once be sent back to prison to complete their original sentences. A Bill giving effect to this recommendation will be laid before you.
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8. A Commission appointed by me to report on representations made by the Superintendent on the overcrowded state of the Gaol has recommended the infliction of whipping for certain offences. have no authority for introducing a change in the law of such importance, but a Bill embodying the recommendations of the Commission has been prepared and sent home for consideration by the Imperial Government.
9. I have also forwarded for the consideration of the Secretary of State a Bill which was read a first time last Session entitled the European Vagrancy Ordinance. This Bill proposes to deal with those Europeans who are frequently landed or discharged from vessels in this port and who are either destitute or become so after a short period. As International questions are involved in this measure, it was withdrawn after the first reading, in order that it might be submitted for consideration by the Imperial Government before it was passed..
10. The Sanitary Board, which has been enlarged by the appointment of four additional Un-official Members, have had under their consideration for some time past the provisions of a Draft Public Health Bill which were included by the Surveyor General in a general Ordinance relating to Buildings, prepared by him a year ago. It has now been decided that it would be more convenient that the provisions originally proposed to be contained therein should be dealt with separately in two Bills, one confined to technical building matters only and the other relating to purely sanitary matters.
I hope that both these Bills will be laid before the Council during the present Session.
11. Besides the Bills already referred to the following Draft Ordinances have been prepared by the Law Commission or by the Acting Attorney General, and are ready for consideration by the Council. 1. An Ordinance for enabling the Legislative Council and any Committee thereof to compel
the attendance of and to administer oaths to witnesses.
2. An Ordinance to enable the Governor of Hongkong to appoint Commissions under the Seal of the Colony and to confer certain powers on Commissioners so appointed necessary for conducting inquiries.
3. An Ordinance to amend the Laws relating to Wills.
4. An Ordinance to amend the Law respecting defamatory words and Libel.
5. An Ordinance to amend and consolidate the Law of Evidence.
6. An Ordinance to amend and consolidate the Laws relating to Jurors and Juries.
7. An Ordinance to consolidate the Laws relating to good order and cleanliness.
8. An Ordinance to promote the revision of the Statute Law.
9. An Ordinance to amend the Companies Ordinances 1865 to 1886.
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10. An Ordinance relating to Bills of Lading.
11. An Ordinance to consolidate the Laws relating to the Post Office.
12. An Ordinance for the better preservation of Books printed in the Colony.
13. An Ordinance for the regulation of Markets and the importation of cattle.
14. An Ordinance consolidating and amending the Laws relating to St. John's Cathedral.
15. An Ordinance to facilitate the incorporation of Religious, Educational, and Charitable
Institutions.
16. An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to the registration of Trade Marks.
12. The following Bills are also under consideration or preparation, and will, it is hoped, be introduced this Session:-
a
1. An Ordinance to consolidate and amend the Criminal Law Procedure.
2. An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Pawn Brokers.
3. An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Coroners.
4. An Ordinance to consolidate and amend the Magistrates Ordinances.
13. The Commission appointed under Section 3 para. 7 of the Chefoo Agreement of 1876, and the additional article of July, 1885, has met and agreed conditionally to the terms of an arrangement, which however will not have effect, unless it is ratified by the Imperial Government as well as by that of China. I am unable therefore at present to enter into any explanations.
14. The representations of the Chamber of Commerce on the necessity of constructing a Light- house for the Southern approach to the Colony will be transmitted to the Secretary of State, as soon as I have received all the reports on the subject which have been called for. The Gap Rock is, in the opinion of those qualified to judge, the best situation for this Lighthouse, although it is more difficult of access than some of the other Islands in the immediate vicinity. This objection is, however, I believe, not insuperable.
15. I regret to say that the prospect of carrying out the scheme for the extension of the Praya, in order to connect the Eastern and Western parts of the City seems as remote as ever.
The original estimate of the cost of this work made by the Surveyor General was £45,000. This had to be raised subsequently to £71,000 in order to meet the objections of the Naval and Military Authorities, and although the whole of the land to be reclaimed, which is estimated at £160,000, was to be appropriated to their use, the War Office and the Admiralty declined to bear any portion of the cost.
The Secretary of State for the Colonies on the other hand has considered that one half of the cost should be borne by the Imperial Departments in consideration of the great extension of ground that they would gain. General CAMERON has since recommended that a portion of the extra cost, entailed by the modification of the original plan should be borne by the War Office, but the Admiralty have stated that until some extension of their premises has been obtained, they must withhold their consent.
16. In respect of the larger public works and undertakings in which the Government has been engaged during the past twelve months, I may mention that, in spite of an unprecedentedly sickly season among the workmen at Tytam, good progress has been made in the construction of the new water-works, and that partial relief may be expected from the subsidiary supplies in connexion with these works, in the event of a drought occurring during next summer. The erection of Victoria College. also progresses satisfactorily, and the new building will, I trust, be ready for occupation early in 1888. New Police buildings have been commenced both at Kennedy Town and at Mount Gough for the protection of the residents in those localities, and proposals will be duly submitted to you for the construction of Police Stations near Quarry Bay and at Aberdeen. Arrangements are also in course of completion for beginning the erection of the proposed new Central Market Building during the coming year.
17. In conclusion I am confident that our labours during the present session, probably the last at which I shall have the honour of co-operating with you, will be marked by the same zeal for the welfare of the Colony that has always been manifested by the Members of this Council in past years, and that the measures to be submitted to you will receive at your hands that careful and attentive consideration which has always characterized the proceedings of this Council.
His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government having then left the Council Chamber, the Chair was again taken by the Chief Justice.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that the following gentlemen be appointed a Committee to prepare the address in reply to His Excellency's speech:-
The Honourable THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL.
The Treasurer seconded. Question-put and passed.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER,
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P. RYRIE.
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F. D. SASSOON.
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J. BELL-IRVING.
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THE ACTING COLONIAL SECRETARY.
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The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that the Council adjourn till 4.45 o'clock, to enable the address of the Council in reply to the speech of His Excellency to be prepared.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
The Council re-assembled at 5 P.M.
The Chief Justice took the Chair.
The Clerk of Councils read at the table the following address to be presented to His Excellency, in reply to the speech he had been pleased to deliver to the Council:--
MAY IT PLEASE YOUR EXCELLENCY,
We learn with satisfaction from the Address delivered by Your Excellency that the favourable anticipations formed respecting the Revenue of the Colony for this year will most probably be realized, and we believe that the increase which has yearly taken place in the Revenue will be maintained. We think we may safely rely upon the Revenue of 1888 being sufficient to meet the demands which may be made upon it.
it. We
We agree with Your Excellency that it is still necessary to exercise a strict super- vision over the expenditure.
2. We learn with pleasure that a sum of $12,000 is all that will be required in 1888 to complete the Taitam Water-Works.
3. Among the measures which Your Excellency proposes to present for the consideration of the Council, we attach special importance to the following:
A Bill dealing with the Triad and other Secret Societies;
A Bill for the better Protection of young Girls; and
A Bill for the Police supervision of certain Criminals.
This last measure, in presence of the number of recommittals, we believe to be greatly needed. 4. We observe with approval that a Bill embodying the recommendation of the recent Gaol Com- mission respecting whipping for certain offences has been prepared.
5. With respect to the other Bills mentioned in Your Excellency's Address, we trust that they may, during this Session, be added to the Statute-book, as, judging from their titles, we believe that they will prove eminently beneficial to the interests of the Colony.
6. We learn with satisfaction that the question of a Lighthouse for the Southern approach to the Colony is at last receiving serious attention, and we hope that shortly this matter will take a practical shape. The want of such a light has been much felt for many years, and no other port of the world of the magnitude of Hongkong is without a leading light to its principal approach.
7. We join Your Excellency in regretting that there should be any difficulty in carrying out a scheme so desirable and so greatly needed as the extension of the Praya.
8. It is satisfactory to learn that progress is being made with the larger Public Works and under- takings of the Colony, and that arrangements for the erection of the new Central Market are well advanced.
9. We have heard with regret that this is probably the last Session during which Your Excellency will preside over this Council, and we beg to assure you of our hearty co-operation in all such measures conducive to the welfare of the Colony as Your Excellency may bring before us.
Mr. RYRIE moved that the Address as read be adopted, and addressed the Council.
Mr. J. BELL-IRVING seconded the motion, and addressed the Council.
Mr. MACEWEN addressed the Council.
The Surveyor General addressed the Council.
The Acting Attorney General addressed the Council.
The Treasurer addressed the Council.
Question-put and passed.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that the Address in reply be presented to the Officer Administering the Governinent by Mr. RYRIE and Mr. BELL-IRVING at Government House to-morrow, at 1 P.M., it having been ascertained that that hour would be convenient to His Excellency.
Question-put and passed.
BILLS READ A FIRST TIME.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the following Bills were read a first time:--
(1.) A Bill entitled An Ordinance for the better protection of young Girls.
(3.) A Bill entitled An
(2.) A Bill entitled An Ordinance for enabling the Legislative Council and any Committee thereof to compel the attendance of and to administer Oaths to Witnesses. Ordinance to enable the Governor of Hongkong to appoint Commissioners under the Seal of the Colony and to confer certain powers on Commis- sioners so appointed necessary for conducting Inquiries. (4.) A Bill entitled The Cattle and Markets Ordinance, 1886.
NOTICE OF SECOND READING.-The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the second reading of these Bills.
ADJOURNMENT.—The Council adjourned until Friday, the 12th instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 12th day of November, 1886.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
13
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 5.
FRIDAY, 12TH NOVEMBER, 1886.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
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the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.).
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
FREDERICK DAVID SASSOon.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,..
on leave).
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable WONG SHING, by leave.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the Meeting held on the 1st October last, and of the Meeting held on the 5th instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minutes by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:—
W. H. MARSH.
(1.)
C.S.O.
1722 of 1886.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $561 for the purpose of establishing a branch of the Harbour Office at Hunghom.
As this village is increasing in size and importance, it would be a great convenience to the junk people to have a Harbour Station at Hunghòm, otherwise they must come to Victoria to obtain their papers, a distance of over 2 miles, or else evade the payment of the fees.
In order to establish this Harbour Station, it is necessary to build an additional room at the Police Station for the accommodation of boatmen. This the Surveyor General estimated at $500, which will be charged against the vote for "Police Building, extension" under Extraordinary Public Works.
A supplementary vote is now required to meet the salaries and other contingencies, viz.:-
Allowance to the Police Officer in charge at $11 per month, Salaries to 4 Boatmen at $6 each,.
Cost of a boat,
Cost of a safe,
Desks, Bookcase; &c.,
•
$
132.00
288.00
420.00
90.00
35.00.
16.00
$561.00
Government House, Hongkong, 9th November, 1886.
W. H. MARSH.
(2.)
C.5.0.
2852 of 1886.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $522 for the temporary employment of a Land Surveyor, for the purpose of obtaining parti- culars of the acreage of the ground, and nature of the localities, occupied by unlicensed Squatters, as required by the Land Commission, viz.:-
Salary at $150 per month, for 3 months,
Chair allowance at $24 per month for 3 months,
Government House, Hongkong, 12th November, 1886.
$450.00 72.00
$
522.00
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(3.)
C.3.0.
2598 of 1886,
C.S.O. 1878 of 1886.
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $150 as a honorarium to Mr. BRUCE SHEPHERD, for services rendered to the Commission under the Chefoo Convention.
This honorarium is recommended by His Honor Mr. Justice RUSSELL, one of the Com- missioners under the Chefoo Convention. Mr. BRUCE SHEPHERD having taken short hand notes of the proceedings, and performed a great deal of work of a very confidential nature, which could only be entrusted to a responsible person.
Government House, Hongkong, 12th November, 1886.
W. H. MARSH.
(4.)
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $11,500, the estimated cost of constructing a strong granite retaining-wall along the northern face of the cliff upon which the Government Hospital buildings are built.
The last rain-storm having caused a serious landslip along the cliff, which is now nearly perpendicular, it is requisite to put the Hospital as well as the buildings and the road below beyond the risk of serious accident that might be entailed by another landslip.
Government House, Hongkong, 12th November, 1886.
W. H. MARSH.
(5.)
Mis. Doc. 1234 of 1886.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to yote the sum of $150 for the employment of a temporary Copying Clerk, to copy both Chinese and English, for four months, in connection with the valuation at present in progress.
Government House, Hongkong, 12th November, 1886.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that these Minutes be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded,
Question-put and passed.
APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEES.-The Acting Colonial Secretary moved the appointment of the following Committees :-
1. Finance, to consist of the whole of the Members of the Legislative Council, except the
Governor, with the Colonial Secretary as Chairman.
2. Law, to consist of the Honourable the Attorney General (Chairman), The Honourable H. G. THOMSETT, R.N., the Honourable P. RYRIE, the Honourable A. P. MACEWEN, and the Honourable WONG SHING.
3. Public Works, to consist of the Honourable the Surveyor General, the Honourable the Colonial Secretary, the Honourable the Colonial Treasurer, the Honourable F. D. SASSOON, and the Honourable J. BELL-IRVING.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
QUESTION.-Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked:--
Has any word been received as to whether Sir GEORGE BOWEN will return to his Post as Governor of the Colony at the expiration of his leave on the 16th December next?
If the answer is in the negative, will His Excellency the Administrator wire to the Colonial Office to know whether Sir GEORGE BOWEN is coming out, and, if not, what steps are being taken to fill the Post?
The Officer Administering the Government replied.
BILLS READ A FIRST TIME.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the following Bills were read a first time:-
(a.) A Bill entitled An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Wills.
(b.) A Bill entitled-An Ordinance relating to Bills of Lading.
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BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER PROTECTION OF YOUNG GIRLS.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council at length on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
After some discussion, the Acting Attorney General withdrew his motion pending the perusal by the Honourable Members of the correspondence on the subject.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDERS OF THE DAY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the other Orders of the Day were postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned to Friday, the 19th instant.
Read and confirmed, this 19th day of November, 1886.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
:
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 6.
FRIDAY, 19TH NOVEMBER, 1886.
17
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Kat.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
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the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
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the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
PHINEAS RYRIE.
FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N., by leave.
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WONG SHING, by leave.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 12th instant, are read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:—
C.S.O.
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of Range, 3200.$200 for repairs to the Police Rifle Range at Kowloon.
2631 of 1886.
Police
The Captain Superintendent of Police reports that part of the wall of the right butt has fallen down, also part of a wall at the back of the targets; the whole of the turf washed away from off the 1,000 yards' butt; the 600 and 700 yards firing points very much damaged.
Government House, Hongkong, 16th November, 1886.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that this vote be referred to the Finance Committee.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
VOTES PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary laid on the table the Report of proceedings of the Finance Committee, held on the 12th instant, (No. 21), in connection with the following votes, and moved that it be taken as read :—
1. Branch of Harbour Office at Hunghòm,.
2. Temporary Land Surveyor for the purposes of the Land Commission,
561.00
522.00
3. Honorarium to Mr. BRUCE SHEPHERD for services in connection with the
Commission under the Chefoo Convention,
4. Retaining wall of Government Civil Hospital,
5. Copying Clerk to Municipal Valuer,
150.00
11,500.00
150.00
$12,883.00
Question-put and passed.
The Acting Colonial Secretary then moved that these votes be passed.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
18
BILLS READ A SECOND TIME.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the following Bills were read a second time, the Acting Attorney General addressing the Council, and stating the objects and reasons of each Bill:-
(a.) A Bill entitled An Ordinance for enabling the Legislative Council and any Committee thereof to compel the attendance of and to administer Oaths to Witnesses. (b.) A Bill entitled An Ordinance to enable the Governor of Hongkong to appoint Commissions under the Seal of the Colony and to confer certain powers on Commis- sioners so appointed necessary for conducting Inquiries.
(c.) A Bill entitled An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Wills.
(d.) A Bill entitled-An Ordinance relating to Bills of Lading.
The Acting Attorney General also moved the second reading of the Bill entitled The Cattle and Markets Ordinance, 1886,. and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Treasurer seconded, and addressed the Council.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting he would move that the Council go into Committee on the following Bills:-
(a.) The Bill entitled An Ordinance for enabling the Legislative Council and any Committee thereof to compel the attendance of and to administer Oaths to Witnesses. (b.) The Bill entitled An Ordinance to enable the Governor of Hongkong to appoint Commissions under the seal of the Colony, and to confer certain powers on Commis- sioners so appointed necessary for conducting Inquiries.
(c.) The Bill entitled An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Wills. (d.) The Bill entitled An Ordinance relating to Bills of Lading. ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned to Friday, the 26th instant.
Read and confirmed, this 26th day of November, 1886.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
t
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 7.
FRIDAY, 26TH NOVEMBER, 1886.
19
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
3.3
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""
35
""
""
"9
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON.
WONG SHING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS Jackson,
on leave).
"}
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 19th instant, are read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minutes by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
W. H. MARSH.
(1.)
Mis. Doc.
1249 of 1886.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote a transfer of the sum of $253 from the Registrar General's Department to the Treasury, to defray the expenses of collecting Municipal Rates at Villages.
This service which has hitherto been performed by the Registrar General's Department is now carried on by the Treasury; therefore a transfer vote is required, viz.:-
Allowance to Collector,
Salary of a Coolie,
Petty expenses,
Government House, Hongkong, 26th November, 1886.
W. H. MARSH.
(2.)
$120.00
108.00
25.00
$ 253.00
C.S.O.
2672 of 1886.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $12,176 to pay the expenses incurred in making good the damages caused by the rain-storm of the 15th of July last, to roads, streets, bridges, and sewers.
In former years the practice has been to assess the damages at the time, and apply for a supplementary vote. This year, however, this practice has been deviated from, and the alter- native adopted of seeing how far the ordinary votes for Public Works could be made to meet this extraordinary demand, leaving the balance only, which could not be met from ordinary sources, to be voted as Extraordinary Expenditure.
20
5
The detailed List of these Storm damages is annexed:-
Schedule of expenses incurred in making good the damages caused by the rain-storm
of 15th July, 1886.
Repairing damages to Peel Street,
$ 141.16
Do.
do.
Albert Road,
73.33
Do.
do.
Centre Street,
177.08
Do.
do.
New East Street,.
268.00
Do.
do.
Robinson Road,
290.26
Do.
do.
Square Street,
35.75
Do.
do.
Gap Street,
54.16
Do.
do..
Tank Lane,
59.80
Do.
do.
Po Yan Street,
61.66
Do.
do.
Castle Road,.
164.67
Do.
do.
Hospital Road,.
106.66
Do.
do.
Arbuthnot Road,
33.33
Do.
do.
Glenealy Path,..
25.00
Do.
do.
Western Street,
66.00
Do.
do.
Third Street,
82.16
Do.
do.
Lower Albert Road,
94.16
Do.
do.
First Street,
96.33
Do.
do.
Queen's Road,
99.00
Do.
do.
Elgin and Staunton Streets,
141.66
Do.
do.
Triangle Street,
154.00
Do.
do.
Western Nullah Road,
231.24
Do.
do.
Belcher's and Davis Streets,
229.63
Do.
do.
Retaining wall near Rope Works,
315.92
Do.
do.
Road adjoining Glass Works,...
99.00
Do.
do.
Centre Street Sewer,..
331.16
Do.
do.
Drains Pokfulam Road,
171.28
Do.
do.
a portion of Peak Road,
28.65
Do.
do.
Caroline Hill Road,
143.00
Do.
do.
Causeway Bay Road,
468.00
Do.
do.
Smithfield Street Sewer,..
455.80
Do.
do.
Catchwaters at Kennedy Town,
138.66
Removing landslips along Robinson Road,
150.00
Do.
do.
Garden Road,
84.66
Do.
do.
Peak Roads,
190.00
Do.
do.
Kennedy Road,
160.33
Do.
do.
Sháukiwán Road,
1,179.33
Do.
do.
Stanley Road,
45.84
Do.
do.
Aberdeen Road,
275.00
Do.
do.
Mount Gough Roads,
8.33
Do.
do.
Pokfulam Road,
10.00
Do.
do.
Magazine Gap Road,
149.08
Clearing sewer choked with debris in Jervois Street,.
79.36
Do.
do.
Hillier Street,
131.46
Do.
do.
Central District,
96.00
Do.
do.
Davis Street,
83.93
Do.
do.
Ship Street,
62.29
Do.
do.
Albany Street,.
90.75
Do.
do.
Wántsai Road,.
98.40
Do.
do.
Bonham Strand,
293.44
Do.
do.
Do.
Repairing damages and clearing silt Bowrington Canal (upper portion),
Sewers choked with rocks and debris, burst and destroyed,.. Clearing sewer-inlets of rocks and debris throughout the city,
do.
at Kennedy Town,
Rebuilding damaged portions of Nullah at Causeway Bay,.
Rebuilding No. 1 Bridge at Sháukiwán Road,
Rebuilding wall and removing landslip above Richmond Road, Clearing Hunghòm Nullah of debris,
129.40
do
(lower portion),
343.00
1,228.60
73.11
67.98
614.00
588.00
1,011.00
59.46
Repairing damages to Happy Valley Road,
36.50
TOTAL,.....
.$12,175.76
J. M. PRICE,
Surveyor General.
Government House, Hongkong, 26th November, 1886.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that these votes be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded.
Question--put and passed.
QUESTIONS. Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked:-
For a Return of the number of deaths registered as occurring in the French and It Convents since January, 1880. The Return to shew the cause of death, and numbers under 1 year of age, under 10 years, and over 10 years; and to call fr papers on the subject.
The Acting Colonial Secretary replied.
21
Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked:-
The reason for the delay in appointing the promised Commission to enquire into the subject
of Interpretation, and when such Commission will be appointed.
The Acting Attorney General replied.
BILLS READ A FIRST TIME.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the following Bills were read a first time:-
a.) A Bill entitled An Ordinance to amend the Companies Ordinances 1865 to 1886.
(b.) A Bill entitled An Ordinance for preserving an authentic record of the Ordinances of the
Colony and for other purposes.
BILL ENTITLED THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL WITNESSES ORDINANCE, 1886.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with amendments.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the third reading of the Bill.
BILL ENTITLED THE COMMISSIONERS POWERS ORDINANCE, 1886.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with amendments.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the third reading of the Bill.
BILL ENTITLED THE WILLS ACT AMENDMENT ORDINANCE, 1886.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with amendment.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the third reading of the Bill.
BILL ENTITLED THE BILLS OF LADING ORDINANCE 1886.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill..
Bill reported without amendment.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the third reading of the Bill.
ADJOURNMENT.—The Council then adjourned to Friday, the 3rd proximo.
Read and confirmed, this 3rd day of December, 1886.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 8.
FRIDAY, 3RD DECEMBER, 1886.
23
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY, MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
13
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""
.
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
>>
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N., by leave.
""
FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON, on leave.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 26th ultimo, were read and confirmed. OBSTRUCTIONS IN THE CANTON RIVER.-His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government read the following telegram from Her Britannic Majesty's Minister at Peking (Sir JOHN WALSHAM, C.B.) on this subject :-
Subject referred to in your telegram of the 29th has been receiving constant attention, and I made a further personal representation to the Yamen the day before I received your message. WALSHAM.
THE MORTALITY IN THE CONVENTS.-The Acting Colonial Secretary stated that the Returns called for by Mr. MACEWEN were not yet ready, but that he hoped to lay them upon the table this day week.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE 8 OF 1879.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the second reading of this Bill.
BILL ENTITLED THE POST OFFICE ORDINANCE, 1886.—On the motion of the Treasurer, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
The Treasurer gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the second reading of this Bill.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE COMPANIES ORDINANCES, 1865 TO 1886.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, stating the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
The Chief Justice addressed the Council.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move that the Council go into Committee on this Bill.
:
::
24
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR PRESERVING AN AUTHENTIC RECORD OF THE ORDINANCES OF
THE COLONY AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, stating the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary, seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move that the Council go into Committee on this Bill.
BILLS READ A THIRD TIME AND PASSED.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the following Bills were read a third time:-
(a.) The Legislative Council Witnesses Ordinance, 1886.
(b.) The Commissioners Powers Ordinance, 1886.
(c.) An Ordinance to amend the Laws relating to Wills.
(d.) An Ordinance relating to Bills of Lading.
Question put-that these Bills do pass.
Bills passed, and numbered respectively as Ordinances Nos. 26, 27, 28, and 29 of 1886.
NOTICE OF QUESTION.-Mr. WONG SHING gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would ask:-
Is it still the practice for the Magistrates to send all destitute Chinese found in the Colony by the
Police, to the Commandant at Kowloon?
If the practice has ceased, why did it cease, and the reason for it?
VOTES PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary laid on the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, held on the 26th ultimo (No. 22), in connexion with the following votes, and moved that it be taken as read:--
253.00
Transfer vote from the Registrar General's Department to the Treasury, for
expenses in connexion with the collection of Municipal Rates at the Villages, $ Expenses incurred in making good Storm Damages caused by the rain-storm of
15th July, 1886, to Roads, Streets, Bridges, and Sewers,..
12,176.00
$12,429.00
Question-put and passed.
The Acting Colonial Secretary then moved that these votes be passed.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned to Friday, the 10th instant.
Read and confirmed, this 10th day of December, 1886.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
1
¿
L
4
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 9.
FRIDAY, 10TH DECEMBER, 1886.
25
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Adm inistering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
.""
""
""
"
19
17
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable JOHN BELL-IRVING, on leave.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 3rd instant, were read and confirmed.
PAPER.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid on the table the following paper :-
Correspondence respecting Deaths in Italian and French Convents, (No. 3.)
QUESTIONS.-Mr. WONG SHING, pursuant to notice, asked:-
Is it still the practice for the Magistrates to send all destitute Chinese found in the Colony by the Police, to the Commandant at Kowloon?
If the practice has ceased, when did it cease, and the reason for it?
The Acting Colonial Secretary replied.
Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked:-
Whether in view of the probable shortness of the water supply during the present dry season, the Government has made any arrangement which can be carried out on short notice for supplying the inhabitants with water free of charge, and, if so, what is the nature of the arrangement?
The Surveyor General replied.
PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE.-The Surveyor General moved, and the Treasurer seconded, that Mr. CHATER be appointed a Member of the Public Works Committee in the room of Mr. SASSOON, absent on leave.
Question-put and passed.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE PROMISSORÝ OATHS ORDINANCE, 1869.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE No. 8 OF 1879.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
Captain THOMSETT seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
:
26
BILL ENTITLED THE POST OFFICE ORDINANCE, 1886.-The Treasurer moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
2
A
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE COMPANIES ORDINANCES 1865 TO 1886.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with amendments and the addition of a clause.
The Acting Attorney General moved, and the Acting Colonial Secretary seconded, that the Standing Orders be suspended and the Bill be read a third time.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 30 of 1886.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR PRESERVING AN AUTHENTIC RECORD OF THE ORDINANCES OF THE COLONY AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported without amendment.
On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do
pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 31 of 1886.
ADJOURNMENT.-On the motion of Mr. RYRIE, seconded by Mr. MACEWEN, the Council was adjourned to 4 P.M. of Friday, the 7th proximo.
Read and confirmed, this 7th day of January, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 10.
FRIDAY, 7TH JANUARY, 1887.
27
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
"}
""
"}
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE,
WONG SHING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JAckson,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER), on leave.
"">
JOHN BELL-IRVING, on leave.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 10th ultimo, were read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minutes by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
W. H. MARSH.
(1.)
C.S.O.
1716 of 1886.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $300 for the erection of a detached Telegraph line to connect the Observatory with the Time- Ball Tower.
The Director of the Observatory having represented that the present line, which is affixed to the same posts which carry other lines for Police Telegraph, is sometimes defective for the purpose of dropping the Time-Ball, a new line well insulated and supported on separate poles is now proposed.
Government House, Hongkong, 7th January, 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
(2.)
C.O.D. 66 of 1886.
The Officer Administering the Government lays before the Council an application for increase of salary by the Inspector of Schools, who has represented that, as shown by the published Annual Reports on Education, his duties have been doubled since 1878, when he joined the service; whilst his emoluments are smaller than those of the Second Master of the
Central School, and are not larger than those of the Third Master.
The Secretary of State to whom this application has been referred, recognizing that the work of the Inspector of Schools has considerably increased, is prepared to approve an increase not exceeding $600 a year to the salary of his appointment, and the Officer Administering the Government requests the Council to vote this amount for 1887.
Government House, Hongkong, 7th January, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that these votes be referred to the Finance Committee. The Acting Attorney General seconded.
Question-put and passed.
***
i
1
•
28
-
C.3.0.
35 of 1887.
Read a Minute by the Surveyor General respecting the selection of a site for a Temporary
Central Market, pending the construction of the Permanent Market.
The Surveyor General moved that this Minute be referred to the Public Works Committee. The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
62 of 1886.
C. O. Desp. Read a Despatch from the Secretary of State for the Colonies, sanctioning the gratuity of $870 voted by the Council to Mrs. SAMPSON, widow of the late First Boarding Officer in the Harbour Department.
PAPERS.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid on the table the following papers :---
1. Correspondence respecting Child Adoption and Domestic Service among Chinese, (No. 4). 2. Correspondence respecting the question of Diplomatic and Consular assistance to British
Trade abroad, (No. 7).
3. Despatch respecting extension of the Governor's leave, (No. 37).
4. Further Correspondence respecting Deaths in the Italian and French Convents, (No. 3o) QUESTION. Mr. CHATER, pursuant to notice, asked :-
Whether His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government of Hongkong has received any instructions from the Secretary of State for the Colonies with regard to a Conference to be held in London in April next to discuss the defences of the Empire and an Imperial system of telegraph extension.
If so, what are those instructions, and what action does His Excellency propose to take? If not, are not these two subjects of sufficient importance to warrant His Excellency in telegraphing to the Home Government to ascertain if any such instructions are on the way or in contemplation?
The Officer Administering the Government replied, and laid on the table the following paper :-
Correspondence respecting the nomination of a representative to take part in a Confer- ence to be held in London for the purpose of discussing certain questions of common interest to all parts of the Empire, (No.
).
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE PROMISSORY OATHS ORDINANCE, 1869.-The Acting Attorney General, moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE No. 8 OF 1879.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by Captain THOMSETT, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
After some discussion, Mr. RYRIE moved that consideration be postponed until next meeting. The Acting Attorney General seconded.
Question-put and passed.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDER OF THE DAY.-The Acting Attorney General moved that, in consequence of the absence of the Treasurer, the other Order of the Day be postponed..
Question-put and passed.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council was then adjourned to Friday, the 14th instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 14th day of January, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH,
Administering the Government.
2
1
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 11.
FRIDAY, 14TH JANUARY, 1887.
29
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWARt.)
>>
9.)
""
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.).
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON'
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 7th instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTES PASSED BY THE, FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary laid upon the table the Report of the Finance Committee, (No. 1 of 1887), on the following votes recommended therein, and moved that the items be passed:
C.S.O. 1716 of 1886.
Telegraph line to connect the Observatory with the Time-Ball Tower,
c. 9. Desp. Increase to Salary of Inspector of Schools,...
68 of 1886.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
.$300.00 $600.00
PAPERS: The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following papers :-
1. Correspondence respecting the proposal of the Legislative Council for making public the
Proceedings of the Finance Committee, (No. 7).
2. The Postmaster General's Report for 1886, (No. 37).
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR PROMOTING THE REVISION OF THE STATUTE LAW BY REPEAL- ING CERTAIN ENACTMENTS WHICH HAVE CEASED TO BE IN FORCE OR HAVE BECOME UNNECESSARY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE LAW RESPECTING DEFAMATORY WORDS AND LIBEL.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED THE POST OFFICE ORDINANCE, 1886.-The Treasurer moved that the Standing Orders be suspended, and that the Council go into Committee on this Bill by reading the marginal notes of it only, so far as the clauses which contained no new matter were concerned, the other clauses being read in extenso.
The Acting Colonial Secretary, seconded.
Question-put and passed.
The Council then went into Committee on the Bill.
Bill reported with amendments.
The Treasurer then gave notice that at the next Meeting of Council he would move the third reading of this Bill.
30
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE PROMISSORY OATHS ORDINANCE, 1869.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported without. amendment.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the third reading of this Bill.
NEW BILLS.-The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next Meeting of Council, he would move the first reading of the following Bills:--
(a.) An Ordinance for the Suppression of the Triad Society and other Secret Societies and for
the Punishment of the Members thereof.
(b.) An Ordinance to regulate the carrying and possession of arms.
(c.) An Ordinance for the more effective Prevention of Crimes.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDER OF THE DAY.-The Acting Attorney General moved that the other Order of the Day be postponed.
Question-put and passed.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council was then adjourned to Friday, the 21st instant, at 4 P.M.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
Read and confirmed, this 21st day of January, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
!
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 12.
FRIDAY, 21ST JANUARY, 1887.
31
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
1
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
>>
>>
1}
>
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE), by leave.
""
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N., by leave.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 14th instant, were read and confirmed. CHEFOO CONVENTION, ADDITIONAL ARTICLE.-The Officer Administering the Government informed the Council that he had received a telegram from Her Britannic Majesty's Minister at Peking to the effect that on and after the 1st February next, the additional article to the Chefoo Convention would be put in force at the Treaty Ports; and that Duty and Lekin on Opium amounting to Tls. 110 per picul would be levied by the Foreign Inspectorate of the Chinese Customs.
His Excellency also stated that he was further informed that Duty and Lekin on junk-shipped Opiuin from Hongkong would continue to be collected by the Chinese Officials as at present, at the Stations around Hongkong and Macao till the 1st of April.
VOTES OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minutes by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government: --
W. H. MARSH.
(1.)
C.S.O. 2658 of 1886.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to re-vote the sum of $19,000, for the construction of a Steam-tug to remove rubbish.
This sum was voted in last year's Estimates, but not expended, as the work was not then finished. Accounts have been presented for the payment of a portion of this work, and the balance will be required in March.
Government House, Hongkong, 17th January, 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
(2.)
C.S.O.
151 of 1887.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to re-vote the sum of $8,950, being the balance of $11,500 voted by the Council on the 19th of November last for the construction of a retaining-wall along the northern face of the cliff upon which the Govern- ment Hospital buildings are built. Only $2,550 of this vote were spent during last year. further sum of $5,000 is now due, and the remainder will be required shortly.
Government House, Hongkong, 20th January, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved, that these Votes be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
A
مو
+
32
PAPER.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, lays upon the table the following paper:-
Report of the Superintendent of the Gaol for 1886. (No. 3).
QUESTION.-Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked:-
:-
Whether it is the intention of the Government to hand over the Lazaretto on Stone Cutters Island to the War Office, and, if so, what has been done to obtain a site for a new Building to receive the sick from quarantined vessels?
The Acting Colonial Secretary, replied.
Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, then asked:-
When the new Ordinance for amending the Laws relating to Public Health in the Colony of Hongkong will come before the Council?
The Acting Attorney General replied.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE TRIAD SOCIETY AND OTHER SECRET SOCIETIES AND FOR THE PUNISHMENT OF THE MEMBERS THEREOF.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO REGULATE THE CARRYING AND POSSESSION OF ARMS.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR PROMOTING THE REVISION OF THE STATUTE LAW BY REPEAL- ING CERTAIN ENACTMENTS WHICH HAVE CEASED TO BE IN FORCE OR HAVE BECOME UNNECESSARY.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE LAW RESPECTING DEFAMATORY WORDS AND LIBEL. The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE No. 8 of 1879.—On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council resumed considera- tion, in Committee, of this Bill.
Bill reported with amendments.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the third reading of this Bill.
BILL ENTITLED THE POST OFFICE ORDINANCE, 1887.-On the motion of the Colonial Treasurer, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 1 of 1887.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE PROMISSORY OATHS ORDINANCE, 1869.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 2 of 1887.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDERS OF THE DAY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the other Orders of the Day were postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.---The Council was then adjourned to Friday, the 28th instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 28th day of January, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH,
Administering the Government.
1
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 13.
FRIDAY, 28TH JANUARY, 1887.
33.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honour: ble the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
""
""
"
#1
23
""
""
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS Jackson,
. on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 21st instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY.-Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
C.S.0.
125 of 1887.
C.O.D.
62 of 1886.
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to re-vote the sum of $870 as a compassionate allowance to Mrs. SAMPSON, widow of the late First Boarding Officer in the Harbour Department, being the equivalent of six months' salary and personal allowance of her late husband.
The vote was passed by the Council last year, but was not paid, as the approval of the Secretary of State only arrived on the 30th of December, 1886, and Mrs. SAMPSON is absent from the Colony. The amount has therefore to be re-voted.
Government House, 26th January, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that, as the amount is a re-vote, it be approved without being again referred to the Finance Committee.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
VOTES PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Oficer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 21st instant, (No. 2), and moved that the following items referred to therein be approved, viz.:-
(1.) For the construction of a Steam-tug to remove rubbish (re-vote),
.$19,000
(2.) Construction of retaining-wall, Government Civil Hospital (re-vote),....$ 8,950 PAPER.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following paper:-
Report of the Acting Superintendent of the Fire Brigade for 1886. (No.).
QUESTION. Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked :-
That His Excellency the Administrator's Despatch to the Secretary of State, No. 282, of 3rd August, 1886, relative to proceedings of the Finance Committee, be laid on the table.
The Officer Administering the Government replied, and laid on the table the Despatch asked for.. (Paper No. 1).
'
34
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE TRIAD SOCIETY AND OTHER SECRET SOCIETIES AND FOR THE PUNISHMENT OF THE MEMBERS THEREOF.-The Acting Attorney General, moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
The Chief Justice addressed the Council.
Mr. RYRIE addressed the Council.
The Acting Colonial Secretary, addressed the Council.
The Officer Administering the Government addressed the Council.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO REGULATE THE CARRYING AND POSSESSION OF ARMS.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Mr. RYRIE addressed the Council.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR PROMOTING THE REVISION OF THE STATUTE LAW BY REPEAL- ING CERTAIN ENACTMENTS WHICH HAVE CEASED TO BE IN FORCE OR HAVE BECOME UNNECESSARY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with amendments.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council, he would move the third reading of this Bill.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE No. 8 or 1879.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do
pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 3 of 1887.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER PROTECTION OF YOUNG GIRLS.-The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next Meeting of Council, he would move the second reading of this Bill.
BILL ENTITLED THE CATTLE AND MARKETS ORDINANCE.-The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move that the Council go into Committee on this Bill.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDER OF THE DAY.--On .the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the other Order of the Day was postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council was then adjourned to Friday, the 4th proximo, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 4th day of February, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
:
35
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 14.
FRIDAY, 4TH FEBRUARY, 1887.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C. M. G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEwart.)
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
""
>>
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
""
"
""
""
""
"
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIÈ.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 28th ultimo, were read and confirmed. PAPERS.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following papers:-
(a.) Approximate Estimate of cost of contemplated Public Works. (No. 1).
(b.) Annual Report of the Head Master of the Government Central School for 1886. (No. 1). BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO REMOVE DOUBTS AS TO THE APPLICATION OF ORDINANCE No. 2 OF 1875. On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER PROTECTION OF YOUNG GIRLS.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it, referring also to the printed correspondence on the subject laid before the Council on the 7th instant.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Mr. RYRIE addressed the Council.
Mr. MACEWEN addressed the Council.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE LAW RESPECTING DEFAMATORY WORDS AND LIBEL.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary; the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with some verbal amendments..
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council, he would move the third reading of this Bill.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR PROMOTING THE REVISION OF THE STATUTE LAW BY REPEAL- -On ING CERTAIN ENACTMENTS WHICH HAVE CEASED TO BE IN FORCE OR HAVE BECOME UNNECESSARY. the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 4 of 1887.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDERS OF THE DAY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the other Orders of the Day were postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council was then adjourned to Friday, the 11th instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 11th day of February, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
GEORGE PHILLIPPO,
President.
.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 15.
FRIDAY, 11TH FEBRUARY, 1887.
PRESENT:
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.), President. The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
:
";
the Acting Attorney General; (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
37
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the, Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
ABSENT:
His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government (WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.),
from indisposition.
The Honourable the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER), by leave.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 4th instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
Mis. Doc.
1357 of 1886,
and
30 of 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $816 to defray the expenses of collecting Village Taxes and Squatters' Licence Fees, by the Treasury.
This service, which has hitherto been performed by the Registrar General's Department, is now to be carried on by the Treasury:-
A Shroff,
An Assistant Shroff, A Coolie,
Indian Constable, Contingencies,
$240.00 per annum.
180.00
";
108.00
188.00
>;
100.00
>>
$ 816.00
The sum of $613 will be saved in the Registrar General's Department, and is, therefore, a transfer vote. The remaining $203 is the additional sum required.
Government House, Hongkong, 4th February, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved, that this vote be referred to the Finance Committee. Captain THOMSETT, seconded.
Question-put and passed.
QUESTION. Mr. CHATER, pursuant to notice, asked the following question, and addressed the Council:-
As there is a general desire on the part of the Community of Hongkong to celebrate Her Majesty's Jubilee year in a fit and appropriate manner, I wish to ask whether the Government would co-operate in any movement made by the public for that purpose?
The Chief Justice replied.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO REMOVE DOUBTS AS TO THE APPLICATION OF ORDINANCE No. 2 OF 1875.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded, and addressed the Council.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
:
38
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO REGULATE THE CARRYING AND POSSESSION OF ARMS.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Progress reported, clauses 8 and 9 being postponed for further consideration.
BILL ENTITLED THE CATTLE AND MARKETS ORDINANCE. The Acting Attorney General informed the Council that, owing to several changes in this Bill, it was necessary to substitute a new Bill for the one now before the Council. He therefore moved that this Bill be expunged from the Order of
the Day.
Question-put and passed.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE LAW RESPECTING DEFAMATORY WORDS AND LIBEL.—On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 5 of 1887.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDERS OF THE DAY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the other Orders of the Day were postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.—The Council was then adjourned to Friday, the 18th instant, at 4 P.M.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
:
Read and confirmed, this 18th day of February, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
-
39
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 16.
FRIDAY, 18TH FEBRUARY, 1887.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
""
""
3
22
"1
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER), by leave.
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N., by leave..
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 11th instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-.
C.S.O. 404 of 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $1,800 for the employment of six foremen of Street cleansing.
The Secretary to the Sanitary Board reports that on the 5th November last authority was requested from the Government to employ 6 men as foremen of Street cleansing. This authority was granted till the end of December, and a report on the result of their employment requested. On the 28th December authority was requested to continue the services of the men for the month of January, before the end of which month the report asked for by His Excellency the Acting Governor would be submitted. The authority asked for was granted.
During the six weeks the men were employed in November and December last a very marked improvement was observable in the manner in which the work of surface cleansing was carried out.
The Sanitary Board, at a meeting held on the 11th instant, unanimously resolved that a letter should be addressed to the Government recommending the permanent employment of the six foremen of Street cleansing who were engaged temporarily in November last year.
The subject will be reconsidered, when the new Sanitary Ordinance has passed; and a vote
is now asked to pay the salaries of these men up to the end of the present year.
Government House, Hongkong, 18th February, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved, that this vote be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer, seconded.
Question-put and passed.
PAPER.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following paper:-
Return of Births and Deaths. (No. 1).
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE MORE EFFECTUAL PREVENTION OF CRIMES.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO REGULATE THE CARRYING AND POSSESSION OF ARMS.- On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council resumed consideration in Committee of this Bill.
Bill reported with amendments.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the third reading of this Bill.
40
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE TRIAD SOCIETY AND OTHER SECRET SOCIETIES AND FOR THE PUNISHMENT OF THE MEMBERS THEREOF.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Progress reported at Clause 13, Clauses 6, 9, 11 and 12 being reserved for further consideration. BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO REMOVE DOUBTS AS TO THE APPLICATION OF ORDINANCE No. 2 or 1875.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
•
Bill reported with amendments.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next Meeting of Council he would move the third reading of this Bill.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDER OF THE DAY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the other Order of the Day was postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.The Council then adjourned until 3 P.M. to-morrow, to consider the Jury List
for 1887.
Read and confirmed, this 4th day of March, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 17.
SATURDAY, 19TH FEBRUARY, 1887.
41
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
""
14
""
>>
19
A
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.).
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
Jury List, 1887.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment, and proceeded to consider the Jury List for 1887.
The List was revised, corrected, and the Special Jurors designated in terms of section 4 of Ordinance 24 of 1882.
ADJOURNMENT.-On the motion of Mr. RYRIE the Council was adjourned to Friday, the 4th proximo,
at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 4th day of March, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH, .
Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
:
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 18.
FRIDAY, 4TH MARCH, 1887.
43
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE Ferguson BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
""
2
25
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.), by leave.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the Meetings held on the 18th and 19th ultimo, respectively, were read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minutes by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
C.S.O.
367 of 1887,
C.S.O. 455 of 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $60 being the stipulated increment to the Assistant Warder in the Gaol Hospital, whose salary was $25 rising to $35 per month.
Through some misapprehension the increase was not put down in the Colonial Estimates for this year.
Government House, Hongkong, 1st March, 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to re-vote the sum of $660 being the balance due to the Contractor for the Extension of the Cattle Market at Kennedy Town, for which work a sum of $10,000 was voted in 1886.
The amount for which the Contractor undertook to perform this work was $8,133, of which sum only $7,473 were paid in 1886, leaving a balance of $660 due, for which it is necessary to ask the Council for a vote, as the provision made for this object last year has lapsed.
Government House, Hongkong, 3rd March, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that these votes be referred to the Finance Committee.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
:
44
VOTES OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the Reports of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 11th and 18th ultimo, respectively, (Nos. 3 & 5), and moved that the following sums referred to therein be voted, viz.:—
(1.) Expenses in connection with the collection of Village Taxes and Squatters'
Licence Fees,..................
(2.) Wages of 6 Foremen of Street cleansing.
:$ 816.00 1,800.00
$ 2,616.00
i
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
PAPERS.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following papers:-
Annual Weather Report of the Director of the Observatory for 1886. (No. 1‡).
Report of the Director of the Observatory on Five-Day Means of the Principal Meteorological
Elements for 1886. (No. 1).
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE EMPOWERING THE COURTS TO AWARD WHIPPING AS A FURTHER PUNISHMENT FOR CERTAIN CRIMES.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE MORE EFFECTUAL PREVENTION OF CRIMES.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and explained the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE TRIAD SOCIETY AND OTHER SECRET SOCIETIES AND FOR THE PUNISHMENT OF THE MEMBERS THEREOF. On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council resumed consideration in Committee of this Bill.
Bill reported with several amendments.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that, at the next meeting of Council, he would move the third reading of this Bill.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER PROTECTION OF YOUNG GIRLS.--On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Progress reported.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO REGULATE THE CARRYING AND POSSESSION OF ARMS.-
-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 6 of 1887.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO REMOVE DOUBTS AS TO THE APPLICATION OF ORDINANCE No. 2 OF 1875.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put--that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 7 of 1887.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 11th instant, at 4 P.M.
W. H. MARSH,
Administering the Government.
Read and confirmed, this 11th day of March, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
".
45
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 19.
FRIDAY, 11TH MARCH, 1887.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the. Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
**
""
"}
,,
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave),
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 4th instant, are read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:
C.S.O. 410 of 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
•
In November, 1885, during the Cattle Epidemic, it was found necessary to provide for the inspection of all cattle arriving in the Colony. For this purpose one of the Inspectors of Nuisances (Inspector RAE) was transferred from the Sanitary Department, and a temporary Inspector of Nuisances was appointed in his place. This temporary Inspector of Nuisances will be required, until the appointment of a Veterinary Surgeon enables Inspector RAE to return to his proper duties.
The Officer Administering the Government therefore recommends the Council to vote the following sums:-
Salary, for 12 months, at $60 per month, Allowance for Rent at $15 per month,.............
$720.00 180.00
Allowance for Chair in Summer, at $12 per month, for 5 months, 60.00
$ 960.00
No provision was made for this service in the Estimates for 1887, as the Veterinary Surgeon has not been appointed, and his salary has not yet been ascertained.
Government House, Hongkong, 10th March, 1887.
.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that this vote be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
VOTES OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 4th instant, (No. 6), and moved that the follow- ing sums referred to therein be voted, viz.:-
(1.) Stipulated increment to the salary of the Assistant Warder in the Gaol
Hospital,
(2.) Extension of Cattle Market at Kennedy Town,...............
60.00
660.00
$ 720.00
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
46
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO MAKE PROVISION FOR SECURING THE STATUS OF THE FRENCH MAIL STEAMERS WITHIN THE PORTS OF THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
Bill entitled AN ORDINANCE TO MAKE. PROVISION FOR SECURING THE STATUS OF THE GERMAN MAIL STEAMERS WITHIN THE PORTS OF THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE EMPOWERING THE COURTS TO AWARD WHIPPING AS A FURTHER PUNISHMENT FOR CERTAIN CRIMES.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and stated the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
In connection with this Bill, His Excellency informed the Council that at the time the Gaol Commission who recommended this measure sat, the number of prisoners in Gaol was 710, and that last week the number was only 559.
Mr. MACEWEN enquired whether the Secretary of State's Despatch on the Report of the Com- mission would be published.
-
His Excellency said he was unable to answer the question now, as he did not know whether he was at liberty to lay the Despatch upon the table, but that he would see about it before next meeting.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER PROTECTION of young GIRLS.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council resumed consideration, in Committee, of this Bill.
Bill reported with several amendments.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that, at the next meeting of Council, he would move the third reading of this Bill.
Mr. MACEWEN suggested that, in view of the extensive alterations made in Committee in the Bill, it be published in the Gazette before proceeding to its third reading.
The Acting Attorney General offering no objection, it was ordered that the Bill, as amended, be published in the next issue of the Gazette.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE MORE EFFECTUAL PREVENTION OF CRIME. On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with some verbal amendments, certain clauses being reserved for further con- sideration.
BILL ENTITLED, AN ORDINANCE FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE TRIAD AND OTHER UNLAWFUL SOCIETIES AND FOR THE PUNISHMENT OF THE MEMBERS THEREOF.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 8 of 1887.
ABOLITION OF CORONER'S JURIES IN CERTAIN CASES-The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the following resolution:-
Whereas the circumstances of this Colony do not require the enquiry into cases of sudden or violent death by a Coroner's Jury, and whereas no advantage is found to arise from such enquiries, be it resolved that it is expedient to introduce an Ordinance abolishing the Office of Corner and providing for an enquiry into cases of sudden or violent death by a Police Magistrate without a Jury, and for the holding of Inquests by a Police Magistrate with a Jury on the bodies of persons who die in Gaol.
ADJOURNMENT.—The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 18th instant, at 4 P.M.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
Read and confirmed, this 18th day of March, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 20.
FRIDAY, 18TH MARCH, 1887.
47
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
;)
"}
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
"}
""
""
29
""
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HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 11th instant, are read and confirmed.
THE OPIUM CONVENTION.-Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administer- ing the Government:-
W. H. MARSH.
The Officer Administering the Government is now able to lay before the Council a copy of the Memorandum of the basis of Agreement arrived at by the Commission which met in Hongkong in June last in pursuance of Article 7 Section III of the Agreement between Great Britain and China, signed at Chefoo on the 13th September, 1876, and of Section 9 of the Additional Article to the said Agreement, signed at London on the 18th July, 1883.
The Joint Commissioners for China laid before the Commission three alternative plans for the collection of Opium Revenue for China which may be briefly described as follows:-
The first plan proposed that the Opium Revenue should be collected for China by England in India, and this plan was regarded by the Chinese section of the Com- mission as the one of the three best calculated to secure a full collection at the least cost, and as less likely than either of the others to embarrass either Government or Commerce. By a system of deferred payments of duties in India it was alleged that interference with capital could be avoided, and by freeing Opium from taxation in China, smuggling and its attendant evils would, it was thought, be brought to an end.
The second plan proposed that China should do her own work, that is, collect her own Revenue on Chinese Territory, and take her own preventive steps all along the Chinese sea-board; a plan which could be made thoroughly effectual, but would necessitate large expenditure, and it was feared that it would cause much friction, and that the more thoroughly it was done the more heavily would it press on all affected by it.
The third plan under which it was proposed that there should be a sort of co-operation between England and China, was somewhere between the other two; it would be more expensive than the first, and it probably would not press so heavily on any interest as the second. It was called the Hulk plan. Its general outline was as follows:-
1. The Chinese Customs were to provide two or three Opium Hulks to be anchored at Hongkong, supplemented if required, by a Godown on shore, and the Hongkong Government was to enact an Ordinance directing every vessel entering the
3
48
Harbour to go alongside one or other of the Hulks. This was subsequently modified and restricted to vessels arriving with Opium on board. These vessels were to dis- charge their Opium into an Opium Hulk-the French Mail steamers into the French Hulk, the British into the British, and others into a miscellaneous Hulk.
2. Opium stored in the Opium Hulks was to be treated as follows when leaving the Hulk:-
(a.) Opium leaving a Hulk to go by steamer to Macao, or by small Coasting vessels, not under the foreign flag, to Chinese ports, to pay Duty and Lekin before leaving the Hulk.
(b.) Opium leaving a Hulk to be taken to any Godown at Hongkong other than
the Customs' Godown, to pay Duty and Lekin before leaving the Hulk. (c.) Opium leaving a Hulk to be taken to a Chinese Treaty Port by vessels under Treaty Power flags, or belonging to the China Merchants Com- pany, to pay Duty and Lekin at the Treaty Port in the manner provided for by the Additional Article, but the Hulk Officials to issue to each such vessel for delivery to the Customs at the Treaty Port, a Cargo Certificate describing the nature and quantity of Opium received from the Hulk, and to be delivered at the Treaty Port, and they were also to send a copy of that certificate by some other vessel direct to the Customs at the port concerned.
Modifications would have been made on this plan if the general outline had been acceptable to the Hongkong Government--such as refunding duty on opium consumed in the Colony-or shewn to have been exported to places other than China. Another was that the Hulks should be placed under the British flag.
Under instructions from Her Majesty's Government, the British Commissioners could not assent to the first proposal and did not take it into consideration. It is needless to enter into the arguments for and against the Hulk plan, as it appeared to the Hongkong Commissioner to be, even with considerable modifications, of a nature that could not be sanctioned by the Government of this Colony. However as it was desirable to help the Chinese Government to collect their Opium Revenue if we could do so without injury to ourselves, Mr. RUSSELL submitted to the Commission certain proposals which he had long had under consideration. These proposals were accepted by the Chinese Government. Subsequent discussion led to some modifications, and the conditional arrangement arrived at is the one now laid on the table.
I
This Memorandum of Agreement was transmitted by the Officer Administering the Government to the Imperial Government, to the Viceroy of India, and to Her Majesty's Minister at Peking, with a Confidential Report drawn up by Mr. RUSSELL.
By a Confidential Despatch dated 21st January last, the Secretary of State for the Colonies conveyed to the Officer Administering the Government the approval of Her Majesty's Govern- ment of the course taken in this matter, and sanctioned the introduction of the Draft Ordinance prepared by Mr. RUSSELL by which it is proposed to carry into effect the terms of the Memo- randum of Agreement, so soon as it was ascertained that the equivalent arrangements with the Government of Macao, referred to in condition 1 of that Memorandum, had been concluded.
A telegram recently received from Her Majesty's Minister at Peking conveys the infor- mation that these equivalent arrangements with Macao have been concluded, and that from 1st April next all duties on goods exported and imported by junks from Hongkong and Macao- not those on Opium only as contemplated by the Additional Article-will be collected by the Inspector-General's Department. The Stations at the entrances to this Harbour and that of Macao will therefore in future be under a Commissioner of the Imperial Customs instead of the Hoppo and Lekin Board as formerly.
The Officer Administering the Government therefore lays on the table, to be read a first time the Draft Ordinance which will carry out the conditions mentioned in the Memorandum of Agreement, and which will, it is expected, protect and improve the Opium Excise Revenue of the Colony. It is practically the same measure as has been in force in the Straits Settlements for years past, and which has worked so well that Singapore alone obtains about $86,000 a month from the Opium Farmers. It is confidently anticipated moreover that when this arrange- ment has been carried out all grounds will be removed for the complaints that were so frequent some years ago of the vexatious proceedings of the Native Customs Officials at the Stations near Hongkong. The duties to be levied at these Stations will be according to a fixed Tariff instead of an uncertain and variable one, as they have hitherto been alleged to be, and it is provided that in case of any dispute the Governor of Hongkong can depute an Officer to make enquiry into the matter in conjunction with the Commissioner of the Imperial Customs.
49.
MEMORANDUM of the basis of Agreement arrived at after discussion between Mr. JAMES
RUSSELL, Puisne Judge of Hongkong; Sir ROBERT HART, K.C.M.G., Inspector-General of Customs, and SHAO Tao Tai, Joint Commissioners for China; and Mr. BYRON BRENAN, Her Majesty's Consul at Tientsin, in pursuance of Article 7 Section III of the Agreement between Great Britain and China, signed at Chefoo on the 13th September, 1876, and of Section 9 of the Additional Article to the said Agreement, signed at London on the 18th July, 1885.
Mr. RUSSELL undertakes that the Government of Hongkong shall submit to the Legislative Council an Ordinance for the regulation of the trade of the Colony in Raw Opium subject to conditions hereinafter set forth and providing:-
:
1. For the prohibition of the import and export of Opium in quantities less than one
chest.
2. For rendering illegal the possession of Raw Opium, its custody or control in
quantities less than one chest except by the Opium Farmer.
3. That all Opium arriving in the Colony be reported to the Harbour Master, and that no Opium shall be transhipped, landed, stored or moved from one store to another, or re-exported without a permit from the Harbour Master, and notice to the Opium Farmer.
4. For the keeping by Importers, Exporters, and Godown Owners in such form as
the Governor may require, books shewing the movement of Opium.
5. For taking stock of quantities in the stores, and search for deficiencies by the Opium
Farmer, and for furnishing to the Harbour Master returns of stocks.
6. For amendment of Harbour Regulations, as to the night clearances of junks. The conditions on which it is agreed to submit the Ordinance, are:-
1. That China arranges with Macao for the adoption of equivalent measures. 2. That the Hongkong Government shall be entitled to repeal the Ordinance if it be
found to be injurious to the Revenue or to the legitimate trade of the Colony. 3. That an Office under the Foreign Inspectorate shall be established on Chinese Territory at a convenient spot on the Kowloon side for sale of Chinese Opium Duty Certificates, which shall be freely sold to all comers, and for such quantities of Opium as they may require.
4. That Opium accompanied by such certificates, at the rate of not more than Tls. 110 per picul, shall be free from all further imposts of every sort, and have all the benefits stipulated for by the Additional Article on behalf of Opium, on which duty has been paid at one of the ports of China, and that it may be made up in sealed parcels at the option of the purchaser.
5. That junks trading between Chinese ports and Hongkong, and their cargoes shall not be subject to any dues or duties in excess of those leviable on junks and their cargoes, trading between Chinese ports and Macao, and that no dues whatsoever shall be demanded from junks coming to Hongkong from ports in China, or proceeding from Hongkong to ports in China, over and above the dues paid or payable at the ports of clearance or destination.
6. That the Officer of the Foreign Inspectorate, who will be responsible for the management of the Kowloon Office, shall investigate and settle any complaints made by junks trading with Hongkong against the Native Customs Revenue Stations or Cruisers in the neighbourhood, and that the Governor of Hongkong, if he deems it advisable, shall be entitled to send a Hongkong Officer to be present at, and assist in the investigation and decision.
If however they do not agree a reference may be made to the Authorities at Peking for a joint decision.
Sir ROBERT HART undertakes on behalf of himself and SHAO Tao Tai (who was compelled by unavoidable circumstances to leave before the sittings of the Commission were terminated) that the Chinese Government shall agree to the above conditions.
The undersigned are of opinion that if these arrangements are fully carried out, a fairly satisfactory solution of the questions connected with the so-called "Hongkong Blockade" will have been arrived at.
Signed in triplicate at Hongkong, this 11th day of September, 1886.
J. RUSSELL, Puisne Judge of Hongkong.
ROBERT HART, Inspector-General of Customs, China.
(Signed),
(Signed),
(Signed),
BYRON BRENAN,
>
H. B. M.'s Consul at Tientsin.
50
His Excellency then announced that a Meeting of the Executive Council would be held on Tuesday, the 22nd instant, at 3 P.M., to which the Members of this Council were invited to attend, when Mr. Justice RUSSELL'S Confidential Report referred to above would be read.
VOTES OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Adininistering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 11th instant, (No. 7), and moved that the following sums referred to therein be voted, viz.:-
Salary of a Temporary Inspector of Nuisances, for 12th months, at $60 per month, $ 720.00 Allowance for Rent, for 12 months, at $15 per month,
Allowance for Chair in summer, for 12 months, at $12 per month, for 5 months,
....
180.00
60.00
$ 960.00
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
PAPER.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following paper:—
Correspondence in connection with the Bill entitled An Ordinance empowering the Courts to
award Whipping as a further punishment for certain Crimes. (No. 1).
ABOLITION OF CORONER'S JURIES IN CERTAIN CASES.-The Acting Attorney General, pursuant to notice, moved the following resolution, and addressed the Council:-
Whereas the circumstances of this Colony do not require the enquiry into cases of sudden or violent death by a Coroner's Jury, and whereas no advantage is found to arise from such enquiries, be it resolved that it is expedient to introduce an Ordinance abolishing the Office of Coroner and providing for an enquiry into cases of sudden or violent death by a Police Magistrate without a Jury, and for the holding of Inquests by a Police Magistrate with a Jury on the bodies of persons
who die in Gaol.
Mr. RYRIE seconded, and addressed the Council.
Question-put and passed.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER REGULATING OF THE TRADE IN OPIUM.-On the motion of the Treasurer, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
The Treasurer gave notice that, at the next meeting of Council, he would move the second reading of this Bill.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO CONSOLIDATE AND AMEND THE LAW FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT AND REGULATION OF THE POLICE FORCE OF THE COLONY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED THE CATTLE DISEASES, SLAUGHTER-HOUSES, AND MARKETS ORDINANCE, 1887.- On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO ABOLISH TRANSPORTATION AND PENAL SERVITUDE AND TO SUBSTITUTE OTHER PUNISHMENT IN LIEU THEREOF.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO MAKE PROVISION FOR SECURING THE STATUS OF FRENCH MAIL STEAMERS WITHIN THE PORTS OF THE COLONY of Hongkong.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and stated the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO MAKE PROVISION FOR SECURING THE STATUS OF GERMAN MAIL STEAMERS WITHIN THE PORTS OF THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and stated the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
.
51
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE MORE EFFECTUAL PREVENTION OF CRIME.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the going into Committee on this Bill was postponed.
:
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE EMPOWERING THE COURTS TO AWARD WHIPPING AS A FURTHER PUNISHMENT FOR CERTAIN CRIMES.-On the motion of the Chief Justice, seconded by Mr. RYRIE, the going into Committee on this Bill was postponed.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER PROTECTION OF YOUNG GIRLS.On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, this Bill was re-committed, and a verbal amendment reported.
The Acting Attorney General then moved, and the Acting Colonial Secretary seconded, that the Bill be read a third time.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 9 of 1887.
TEMPORARY CENTRAL MARKET.-The Surveyor General laid upon the table the following Report of the Public Works Committee on this question:-
REPORT.
The Public Works Committee have had under consideration the question as to the best provision to be made for stall accommodation pending the construction of the proposed new Central Market, and they recommend that the Southern or Queen's Road half of the present old structure be used as a temporary Market pending the erection of the Northern half of the proposed new buildings, and that upon that section of the new buildings being completed, the stall-holders be moved into it until the new Market is finished in its entirety when fresh arrangements may be made for the distribution of stall space.
1
The acquisition of the necessary site having been completed only quite recently, and there having been until now some uncertainty as to the area that would be available for temporary Market purposes, the Committee have not been in a position to submit their recommendation earlier.
J. M. PRICE,
Chairman.
J. BELL-IRVING.
C. P. CHATER.
FREDERICK STEWART.
A. LISTER.
Council Chamber, Hongkong, 18th March, 1887.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 25th instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 25th day of March, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
باید
53
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 21.
FRIDAY, 25TH MARCH, 1887.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON Bowen, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART. )
22
>>
,,
A
""
""
""
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 18th instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:--
C.S.O. 696 of 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
Chinese correspondence having increased very much of late, especially registered letters from America, the duties of the Senior Postman, who has to distribute all registered letters and obtain signatures to receipts, are now more than one man can accomplish in the course of a day.
A
The Officer Administering the Government, on the representation of the Postmaster General, recommends the Council to vote a sum of $80 to meet the salary of another Postman at the rate of $10 per month from 1st of April next.
Government House, Hongkong, 22nd March, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that this vote be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
PAPER.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following paper:-
Correspondence in connection with the proposed Loan. (No. 17). PETITIONS.-The Acting Colonial Secretary said that the Clerk of Councils had received two Petitions, and moved that they be read.
The following Petitions were then read by the Clerk of Councils:-
(1.)
TO HIS EXCELLENCY THE PRESIDENT, AND THE HONOURABLE MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF HONGKONG.
The humble petition of Shellim Ezekiel Shellim, of the firm of David Sassoon, Sons & Co., Jacob Silas Moses, of the firm of E. D. Sassoon & Co., Ruttonjee Dadabhoy Tata, of the firm of Tata & Co., Marcus David Ezekiel, of the firm of Abraham, Ezekiel & Co., Mahomedbhoy Khetsey, of the firm of Tharia Topan, Jafferbhoy Khetsey, of the firm of Jairazbhoy Peerbhoy & Co., and Hormusjee Meherwanjee Mehta, of the firm of Framjee Hormusjee & Co., all of Victoria in the Colony of Hongkong, for and on behalf of the Opium Importers and wholesale Opium Merchants of the said Colony.
SHEWETH,-That at a recent Meeting of the Opium Importers and wholesale Opium Merchants of this Colony, held for the purpose of considering the Bill now before your Honourable Council, entitled An Ordinance for the better regulating of the trade in Opium, it was inter alia resolved that the said Bill, if passed in its present form, would prejudicially affect their trade, and that your petitioners should be appointed a Committee to take such measures as they might consider advisable to bring their complaints before
your Honourable Council.
That while fully recognizing the necessity of carrying out the object aimed at by the said Bill, namely, the prevention of Opium smuggling into China, and while sympathizing with its spirit, your petitioners submit that the means by which it is proposed to effectuate such object would inflict serious injury upon the Opium trade, and especially on the aforesaid Opium Importers and wholesale and retail Opium dealers, and prove a blow to the general commerce and prosperity of this Colony.
1
}
54
That your petitioners believe that the ends intended to be accomplished by the said Bill could be attained by other and less objectionable means, and that your petitioners are prepared to co-operate with your Honourable Council and the Executive in attaining the desired object.
That inasmuch as the Bill affects private interests, and was only brought in and read a first time on Friday, the 18th instant, it is desirable to postpone the second reading thereof so as to enable the persons who are more immediately interested, as well as the general public, to acquaint themselves with its scope and object.
Your petitioners therefore humbly pray
1. That the second reading of the said Bill may be postponed until such day as your
Honourable Council may under the circumstances deem meet.
2.-That your petitioners may be heard by Counsel at the bar of Council as to their objections to the said Bill in its present form.
your Honourable
3. That the said Bill may be so amended or modified as to remove the objections of your petitioners, or that it may be withdrawn and a fresh Bill introduced such as
the necessity of the case requires.
And your petitioners will ever pray, &c..
Hongkong, 22nd March, 1887.
TO THE HONOURABLE
(2.)
S E. SHELLIM.
J. S. MOSES.
R. D. TATA.
M. D. EZEKIEL.
M. KHETSEY.
J. KHETSEY. H. M. MEHTA.
THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF HONGKONG.
The humble petition of the undersigned merchants and traders resident in Hongkong. Respectfully showeth :-
1.— Your petitioners are dealers in Opium risiding and carrying on business in Hongkong. 2.-At the meeting of your Honourable Council held on Friday, the 18th March instant, a Bill was introduced and read a first time entitled An Ordinance for the better regulating of the trade in Opium, and the said bill is framed for the purpose of regulating the movement of Raw Opium in this.Colony and of prohibiting the purchase or sale of Raw Opium in quantities less than one chest.
3. Your petitioners deal largely in Raw Opium, buying and selling it in quantities less than one chest, and have a large capital engaged in the said business, and they employ in their said business many hundreds of persons.
4.—If the said Bill becomes law in its present form the business hitherto carried on by your petitioners will absolutely cease and can no more be carried on the capital therein employed will be idle, the hundreds of persons now occupied in the said business will be thrown out of employment, and your petitioners will all of them suffer grievous loss and injury, and some of them will be irretrievably ruined.
5.-Your petitioners respectfully submit that the objects proposed to be attained by the said Bill may be far more effectually carried out by means other than those contained in the said Bill, and without loss or injury to any class of the community; and they therefore humbly pray that on the second reading of the said Bill they may be heard by their Counsel against the said Bill, under the provisions of the 47th of the Standing Orders and Rules of this Honourable Council, and that they may have due notice of such second reading.
WING KAT CHEUNG.
HOP Wo.
KING WO.
I UN HO.
I
KU UN HO. WING LI LUNG. LI TAI SING. KWONG UN SHING. FUK UN CHEUNG KI. YUT WO U KI. SHUN KAT Ho.
Hongkong, 23rd March, 1887.
His Excellency then addressed the Council. The Chief Justice also addressed the Council.
KWONG-IN CHEONG. FUK SHUN LUNG. SHING KI. KWONG SHING LI. MAN UN Ho. TIN UN.
PO FUNG Cheong. CHING LUNG. SHANG UN Ho. ON SHING Ho. MIN UN Ho.
55
QUESTIONS.-PRAYA EXTENSION. Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked:--
Whether any decision has as yet been arrived at with reference to the Praya Extension Şcheme; and called for all Correspondence and Papers on the subject.
The Officer Administering the Government replied, and laid upon the table the following paper:— Memorandum by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government on the question
of the Praya Extension. (No. 1).
Return of UnStamped CorrespONDENCE.-Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked:-
For an explanation from the Postmaster General with regard to the recent action of the Post Office Authorities in returning to Shanghai and the Coast Ports certain unstumped letters which were addressed to well-known Firms and Individuals in this Colony.
The Treasurer replied, and laid upon the table the following paper:
Return of Unstamped Correspondence. (No. 1).
LIGHT-HOUSE ON GAP ROCK.-Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked:-
Whether any reply has been received from the Colonial Office regarding the proposed Light on Gap Rock.
The Acting Colonial Secretary replied, and laid upon the table the following paper:-
Correspondence respecting a proposed Light-house on Gap Rock. (No. 2).
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER REGULATING OF THE TRADE IN OPIUM.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and stated the objects and reasons of it.
The Treasurer seconded, and addressed the Council.
Mr. CHATER addressed the Council, and moved that the second reading of the Bill be postponed till this day three weeks, and that Counsel be heard at the bar on the subject of the Bill.
Mr. MACEWEN seconded.
The Acting Attorney General moved, as an amendment, that a special meeting he held on Wed- nesday, the 30th instant, at 3 P.M., to consider the Bill.
The Treasurer seconded.
Mr. RYRIE addressed the Council.
The Chief Justice addressed the Council.
Mr. WONG SHING addressed the Council. The Council then divided:-
For.
Captain THOMSETT.
THE SURVEYOR GENERAL.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER.
THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL. THE ACTING COLONIAL SECRETARY. THE CHIEF JUSTICE.
Amendment carried by a majority of one.
Against.
Mr. CHATER. Mr. BELL-IRVING. Mr. MACEWEN. Mr. WONG SHING. Mr. RYRIE.
The Officer Administering the Government stated that there would be no objection to Counsel appearing.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO ABOLISH TRANSPORTATION AND PENAL SERVITUDE AND TO SUBSTITUTE OTHER PUNISHMENT IN LIEU THEREOF.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and stated the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDERS OF THE DAY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the other Orders of the Day were postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned until Wednesday, the 30th instant, at 3 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 30th day of March, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 22.
WEDNESDAY, 30TH MARCH, 1887.
57
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
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"
33
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM Keswick, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAvid Sassoon,
on leave).
There were also in attendance by permission of Council:--
J. J. FRANCIS, Esquire, Q.C., W. H. BreretTON, Esquire,
Barristers-at-Law.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 25th instant, were read and confirmed.
Mr.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER REGULATING OF THE TRADE IN OPIUM.- FRANCIS, Q.C., on behalf of the retail dealers in Opium addressed the Council at length on the subject of the Bill as affecting his clients.
Mr. BRERETON, on behalf of the wholesale dealers, also addressed the Council.
Mr. RYRIE then addressed the Council, and moved that the second reading of this Bill be post- poned for one Calendar month from the date hereof.
Mr. MACEWEN seconded the motion, and addressed the Council.
The Acting Attorney General addressed the Council.
The Chief Justice addressed the Council, and moved, as an amendment, that the further debate on the Bill be adjourned to Friday, the 1st proximo, at 3 P.M.
The Treasurer seconded, and addressed the Council.
Mr. CHATER addressed the Council in support of the motion for postponement.
The Council then divided:-
For
Mr. WONG SHING.
Captain THOMSETT.
THE SURVEYOR GENERAL.
THE TREASURER.
THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL.
THE ACTING COLONIAL SECRETARY.
THE CHIEF JUSTICE.
Amendment carried by a majority of three.
Mr. CHATER.
Against
Mr. BELL-IRVING.
Mr. MACEWEN.
Mr. RYRIE.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 1st proximo, at 3 P.M.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
Read and confirmed, this 1st day of April, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
→
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 23.
59
FRIDAY, 1ST APRIL, 1887.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C. M.G.
His Honour the Chief Justice, (SIR GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Knt.)
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
:)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave).. ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 30th ultimo, were read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. Read the following Minutes by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:--
W. H. MARSH.
(1.)
C.S.O.
469 of 1887.
The Steam-launch Stanley (formerly Victoria) being about to be handed over to the Sanitary Department to be used as a Tug-boat to remove rubbish and dredgings, it is necessary to provide for the pay of the crew, and other contingent expenses of the launch.
The Officer Administering the Government therefore recommends the Council to vote the following sums:-
Engineer at $30 per month, 10 months,
Fireman at $15
Coxswain at $10
17
3 Sailors at $ 7 each
Coal, Oil, Water, &c. for 10 months,
Moorings,..
.$ 300,00
150.00
100.00
210.00
$ 760.00
3,130.00
25.00
$3,915.00
The Surveyor General will make arrangements with the Conservancy Contractors to refund a portion of the expenses incurred by the tug-boat, and this will be accounted for as Revenue on account of conservancy.
Government House, Hongkong, 31st March, 1887.
60
C.S.0.
795 of 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
(2.)
When the Green Island Light-house was built, it was thought that it would meet all requirements, if a native or a coloured man were placed in charge of the light. A very small house with two rooms was therefore deemed sufficient by way of quarters; but, subsequently, a European was put in charge, and there has been ever since one continuous complaint about the inadequacy of the house.
As a new roof will be required to the building, the Surveyor General has suggested that this opportunity should be availed of to make certain extensions, the cost of which would amount to $1,500.
sum.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the above
Government House, Hongkong, 31st March, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that these votes be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
VOTES OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 25th ultimo, (No. 8), and moved that the following sum referred to therein be voted, viz.:-
Pay of an additional postman for 8 months, at $10 per month,
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed..
.$ 80.00
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER REGULATING OF THE TRADE IN OPIUM.-The debate on the motion for the second reading of this Bill resumed.
The Chief Justice addressed the Council at length.
Mr.. CHATER addressed the Council, and moved that the second reading of the Bill be fixed for this day week, in order to allow time for an alternative scheme relative to broken chests of Opium to be submitted to the Government.
Mr. BELL-IRVING seconded.
The Acting Attorney General addressed the Council, offering no objection to the Honourable Member's motion.
The Officer Administering the Government then addressed the Council, and suggested that it would be more convenient to adjourn the second reading sine die.
Mr. CHATER agreed.
Question-put and passed.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO ABOLISH TRANSPORTATION AND PENAL SERVITUDE AND TO SUBSTITUTE OTHER PUNISHMENT IN LIEU THEREOF.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported without amendment.
The Acting Attorney General then moved that the Bill be read a third time.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 10 of 1887.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE MORE EFFECTUAL PREVENTION OF CRIME.--On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the Council resumed consideration in Committee of this Bill.
Bill reported with certain technical amendments.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO MAKE PROVISION FOR SECURING THE STATUS OF FRENCH MAIL STEAMERS WITHIN THE PORTS OF THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-The Acting Attorney General addressed the Council, and moved that the Council go into Committee on this Bill.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded,
The Chief Justice addressed the Council.
:
61
Mr. RYRIE then addressed the Council, and moved as an amendment, that the going into Com- mittee on this Bill be postponed.
Mr. MACEWEN seconded.
Debate then ensued, and the Council divided :---
For
Mr. MACEWEN,
Mr. WONG SHING.
Mr. RYRIE.
Motion lost by a majority of five.
The Council then went into Committee on the Bill.
Against
Mr. CHATER.
Mr. BELL-IRVING.
Captain THомSETT.
THE SURVEYOR GENERAL.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER.
THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL. THE ACTING COLONIAL SECRETARY. THE CHIEF JUSTICE.
Bill reported in the form of the usual annual Bill for these Steamers,-Clauses 1, 2 and 3 with- drawn and a new Clause inserted in lieu thereof. Clause 4 amended and Bill reported.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO MAKE PROVISION FOR SECURING THE STATUS OF GERMAN MAIL STEAMERS WITHIN THE PORTS OF THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-The Acting Attorney General moved that the Council go into Committee on this Bill.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Mr. MACEWEN moved, that the same amendments be made in this Bill as in the French Mail Steamers Bill just dealt with.
Mr. BELL-IRVING seconded.
The Acting Attorney General then withdrew Clauses 1, 2, 3 and 4, and inserted a new Clause in lieu thereof, and the Council went into Committee on the Bill as amended.
The Bill reported without amendment.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDER OF THE DAY.--On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the other Order of the Day was postponed.
DEPARTURE OF THE CHIEF JUSTICE.-Mr. RYRIE addressed the Council on the approaching departure of the Chief Justice on leave of absence, and expressed on behalf of the Un-Official Members of the Council, that His Honour and Lady PHILLIPPO may have a pleasant passage home, and both may return with re-invigorated health.
The Acting Attorney General on behalf of the Official Members also addressed the Council, wishing His Honour and Lady PHILLIPPO a pleasant passage home and a happy return.
His Honour replied in suitable terins.
ADJOURNMENT.—The Council then adjourned until Thursday, the 7th instant, at 4 P.M.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
Read and confirmed, this 7th day of April, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
•
T
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 24.
THURSDAY, 7TH APRIL, 1887.
63
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
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the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE. ·
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 1st instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minutes by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
}
W. H. MARSH.
(1.)
C.S.O. 433 of 1887.
The Officer Administering the Government has received a proposal from the Surveyor General, which has been strongly supported by the Sanitary Board, for the reclamation of a piece of ground opposite the Sailors' Home, measuring 74,000 square feet in extent, destined, when completed, for the construction thereon of a new Western Market. The cost of this reclamation and of a Praya or Retaining Wall is estimated at $73,000, and the value of the ground to be reclaimed is estimated at $370,000. The work will require two years to complete it.
The Officer Administering the Government proposes that the necessary money for this work should be taken from the premia realized on sales of Crown Land which are not included in the Revenue receipts of the Colony. The Council are therefore requested to vote a sum of $35,000 to be taken from this source for defraying the cost of the portion of the work which will be executed this year.
The Finance Committee have already been consulted in this question, and have expressed the unanimous opinion that the project should be approved.
Government House, Hongkong, 6th April, 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
(2.)
C.S.O.
794 of 1887.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to re-vote the sum of $6,000 for the construction of a Market at Hunghòm.
This sum was voted in last year's Estimates, but not expended, as the work was not then finished.
Government House, Hongkong, 7th April, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that these votes be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
64.
VOTE OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Adininistering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 1st instant, (No. 9), and moved that the following sum referred to therein be voted, viz.:-
Extensions to the quarters of the Light-house. Keeper on Green Island,
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed."
.$1,500.00
PAPER.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following paper:-
Statement showing the total Receipts and Payments in the year 1886. (No. 7).
QUESTION. Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked :--
Whether the long and faithful services of the late Inspector Lindsay and the injuries he received in the discharge of his duties would not warrant His Excellency in recommending a gratuity to the widow.
The Acting Colonial Secretary replied.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE AUTHORISING THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORA- TION TO CONTINUE INCORPORATED FOR THE FURTHER TERM OF TWENTY-ONE YEARS.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO CONSOLIDATE THE LAW RELATING TO VARIOUS LICENCES.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO CONSOLIDATE AND AMEND THE LAW FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT AND REGULATION OF THE POLICE FORCE OF THE COLONY.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED THE CATTLE DISEASES, SLAUGHTER-HOUSES, AND MARKETS ORDINANCE, 1887.— The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE MORE EFFECTUAL PREVENTION OF CRIME.-The Acting Attorney General moved the third reading of this Bill.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 11 of 1887.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDERS OF THE DAY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the other Orders of the Day were postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.—The Council then adjourned sine die.
*
Read and confirmed, this 15th day of April, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 25.
FRIDAY, 15TH APRIL, 1887.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
65
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
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the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JAckson,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to notice.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 7th instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 7th instant, (No. 10), and moved that the sums referred to therein be voted, viz.:-
Part cost of reclamation in connection with the erection of a new Western Market,. $35,000.00 Market at Hunghòm,
6,000.00
$41,000.00
1
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO ENABLE THE TRUSTEES OF THE RHENISH MISSIONARY SOCIETY TO SELL AND DISPOSE OF CERTAIN LEASEHOLD PROPERTY WITHIN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE NATURALISATION OF CH'AN KWOK YING.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND AND CONSOLIDATE THE LAW RELATING TO JURORS.--On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE AUTHORISING THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORA- TION TO CONTINUE INCORPORATED FOR THE FURTHER TERM OF TWENTY-ONE YEARS.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO CONSOLIDATE THE LAW RELATING TO VARIOUS LICENCES.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded. Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
66
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO CONSOLIDATE AND AMEND THE LAW FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT AND REGULATION OF THE POLICE FORCE OF THE COLONY. On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with a verbal amendment.
BILL ENTITLED THE FRENCH MAIL STEAMERS ORDINANCE CONTINUATION ORDINANCE, 1887.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 12 of 1887.
BILL ENTITLED THE GERMAN MAIL STEAMERS ORDINANCE CONTINUATION ORDINANCE, 1887.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 13 of 1887.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDERS OF THE DAY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the other Orders of the Day were postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned sine die.
Read and confirmed, this 22nd day of April, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
W. H. MARSH, Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 26.
FRIDAY, 22ND APRIL, 1887.
67
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.,
Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
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the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING,
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to notice.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 15th instant, are read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minutes by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
C.S.O.
68 of 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
(1.)
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $9,600 for the extension of the Cattle Depôt at Kennedy Town.
The present Depôt can accommodate 240 head of cattle intended to be slaughtered for the meat supply of the City; but the requirements of the town and of the shipping have grown so largely that the Acting Registrar General now states that the present accommodation is inadequate, and that room should be provided for at least 360 head of cattle.
A copy of a letter on this subject from the Surveyor General is annexed. Government House, Hongkong, 22nd April, 1887.
No. 9.
Enclosure.
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT,
HONGKONG, 10th January, 1887.
SIR,-Some years ago the Government built a Cattle Depôt at Kennedy Town destined to accommodate the cattle intended to be slaughtered for the meat supply of the City. It was stated at the time that room for 120 head of cattle would suffice, and that the market or depôt could be enlarged subsequently as the demands of the Colony increased.
2. Two years ago the question was again considered, and it was stated that accommodation should be provided for at least 240 head of cattle. Accordingly in 1885, the Government placed on the Colonial Estimates for 1886, a sum of $10,000 for this extension of the Depôt.
3. But the fact is the wants of the town and of the shipping are growing enormously from day to day, and the Registrar General now states that the recent extension is inadequate and that room should be provided in the Depôt for at least 360 head of cattle.
4. Of the necessity for this further extension, I myself can entertain no doubt, for, on a recent examination of the place, I saw many bullocks picketted outside, exposed to all weathers, for want of room in the sheds.
68
5. Cattle exposed in this unsheltered and somewhat inhuman manner are liable to contract disease, and as the Government now pays compensation for diseased cattle destroyed, there is always a risk of more or less heavy demands being made on the Colonial Treasury on this
account.
6. A further extension of the cattle sheds so as to enable them to hold 360 head, would involve an outlay of $9,600, and if this proposition were sanctioned a special vote for this amount would have to be asked of the Legislative Council.
7. I ought, however, to mention that a balance has remained over of $1,840 from last year's vote of $10,000, so that if a special vote of $9,600 were now asked for, a proportion of $1,840 would in reality be nothing more than a re-vote, and it would only be the balance, i.e., $7,760 that would represent new expenditure.
8. As a considerable revenue may be derived from this place if enlarged, the Government will doubtless have all the greater inducement to sanction a further extension of the accommo- dation. The 120 stalls proposed now to be added will bring in an additional $40 a month, representing a return of 5 per cent. on the outlay.
I have the honour to be,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
(2.)
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
J. M. PRICE, Surveyor General.
C.S.O: 954 of 1887.
W. H. MARSH.
On the representation of the Surveyor General and the Harbour Master, that the Officer's Quarters at Stone Cutters's Island Magazine are now in such a state as to make any further postponement of repairs unsafe, the Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $2,000 to defray this service.
Government House, Hongkong, 22nd April, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that these votes be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
PAPERS.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following papers:-
(a.) The Blue Book for 1886.
(b.) Report on the Blue Book for 1886. (No. 7).
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO REGULATE THE BUILDING OF CHINESE HOUSES IN THE CITY OF VICTORIA. On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO ENABLE THE TRUSTEES OF THE RHENISH MISSIONARY SOCIETY TO SELL AND DISPOSE OF CERTAIN LEASEHOLD PROPERTY WITHIN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE NATURALISATION OF CH'AN KWOK YING.-The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
69
:
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND AND CONSOLIDATE THE LAW RELATING TO JURORS.--The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE AUTHORISING THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORA- TION TO CONTINUE INCORPORATED FOR THE FURTHER TERM OF TWENTY-ONE YEARS.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported without amendment.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE EMPOWERING THE COURTS TO AWARD WHIPPING AS A FURTHER PUNISHMENT FOR CERTAIN CRIMES.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with amendments.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO CONSOLIDATE AND AMEND THE LAW FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT AND REGULATION OF THE POLICE FORCE OF THE COLONY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 14 of 1887.
DEPARTURE OF HIS EXCELLENCY WILLIAM HENRY MARSH, C.M.G.-His Excellency informed the Council of his approaching departure from the Colony, on Monday next, upon his retirement from the service.
Mr. RYRIE addressed His Excellency in appropriate terms on behalf of the Council, remarking that he was retiring with a highly honourable record, and wishing him a pleasant voyage to New Zealand, in which country he understood he purposed settling.
His Excellency thanked the Council for their kind sentiments.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDERS OF THE DAY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the other Orders of the Day were postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned to Friday, the 29th instant.
Read and confirmed, this 29th day of April, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government
.
I
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 27.
FRIDAY, 29TH APRIL, 1887.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR George
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
"
*2
3)
>>
"}
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to notice.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 22nd instant, were read and confirmed.
PAPERS.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following papers:--
(a.) Report of the Superintendent of the Botanical and Afforestation Department for
1886. (No. 24).
(b.) Educational Report for 1886. (No. 4).
(c.) Returns of Superior and Subordinate Courts for 1886. (No. 2).
(d.) The Harbour Master's Report for 1886. (No. 3).
QUESTIONS. Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked the following questions:---
What progress has been made with the Fortifications now under construction at the expense of
the Colony?
What amount of money has been expended and paid?
How much is still due for work actually completed?
How much more is required to complete the works according to the original plans?
What is the latest information received from War Office in re new guns?
The Officer Administering the Government replied, and laid upon the table a Return containing the details asked for, together with a confidential Memorandum by the Commanding Royal Engineers, dated the 28th March, 1887, which would be shewn by the Acting Colonial Secretary to any Honourable Member who wished to peruse it.
His Excellency also quoted certain information from War Office Letter of 4th December, 1886.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO REGULATE THE BUILDING OF CHINESE HOUSES IN THE CITY OF VICTORIA. The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the objects and reasons of it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Mr. CHATER moved that the second reading of this Bill be postponed till next Session, and addressed the Council.
Mr. BELL-IRVING seconded.
Mr. RYRIE and Mr. MACEWEN, respectively, addressed the Council.
The Acting Attorney General offered no objections..
Question-put and passed.
71
}
;
72
BILL ENTITLED THE CATTLE DISEASES, Slaughter-Houses, and MARKETS ORDINANCE, 1887. On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with amendments.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE AUTHORISING THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORA- TION TO CONTINUE INCORPORATED FOR THE FURTHER TERM OF TWENTY-ONE YEARS.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by Mr. MACEWEN, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put--that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 15 of 1887.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE EMPOWERING THE COURTS TO AWARD WHIPPING AS A FURTHER PUNISHMENT FOR CERTAIN CRIMES.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass..
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 16 of 1887.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.--The Acting Attorney General gave notice that at the next meeting of Council he would move the first reading of this Bill.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDERS OF THE DAY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the other Orders of the Day were postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned sine die.
Read and confirmed, this 6th day of May, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government.
}
1.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 28.
FRIDAY, 6TH MAY, 1887.
PRESENT:
73
:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G.. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.).
>>
* A
29
""
1;
*5
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
ABSENT:
The Monourable PHINEAS RYRIE, (by permission).
""
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
The Council met pursuant to notice.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 29th ultimo, were read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 22nd ultimo, (No. 1), and moved that the following sums referred to therein be voted, viz.:-
(1.) Extension of Cattle Depôt at Kennedy Town,
(2.) Repairs to Officers' Quarters at Stone Cutters' Island,
$9,600.00
2,000.00
$11,600.00
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.--The Acting Attorney General moved the first reading of this Bill; and addressed the Council at length on the objects and reasons of it.
The Surveyor General seconded, and addressed the Council.
His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government also addressed the Council, Question-put and passed.
Bill read a first time.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO ENABLE THE TRUSTEES OF THE RHENISH MISSIONARY SOCIETY TO SELL AND DISPOSE OF CERTAIN LEASEHOLD PROPERTY WITHIN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported without amendment.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE NATURALISATION OF CH'AN KWOK YING.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported without amendment.
:
1
74
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO CONSOLIDATE THE LAW RELATING TO VARIOUS LICENCES.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with some verbal amendments.
BILL ENTITLED THE CATTLE DISEASES, SLAUGHTER-HOUSES, AND MARKETS ORDINANCE, 1887.- On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 17 of 1887.
POSTPONEMENT OF THE OTHER ORDER OF THE DAY.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the other Order of the Day was postponed.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned to Friday, the 13th instant, at 4. P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 13th day of May, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH,
Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General, Administering the Government.
}
▼
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 29.
FRIDAY, 13TH MAY, 1887.
75
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
•
"
23
19
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER), on duty.
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave), on leave.
The Council met pursuant to notice.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 6th instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:—
C.S.O. 948 of 1887.
W. G. CAMERON.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $150 for the purpose of supplying to the Magistracy a Press for keeping Court Records, similar to one supplied in 1883.
Government House, Hongkong, 13th May, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that this vote be referred to the Finance Committee. Captain THOMSETT seconded.
Question-put and passed.
PAPER.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the following paper:-
Reclamation of, and building at, Causeway Bay (No. 7).
The Surveyor General moved that the question be referred for the consideration of the Public Works Committee of the Council, and that all the Members of the Council be invited to take part in it.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
OPIUM BILL.-The Officer Administering the Government informed the Council that a telegram had come into his hands stating that the Chinese Government had accepted, as an experiment and on trial, the recent proposals of a Member of this Council accepted by the Chamber of Commerce in con- nexion with the Opium Bill now before the Council, and that the Government was in communication,. by telegraph, with the Secretary of State for the Colonies on the subject.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND AND CONSOLIDATE THE LAW RELATing to Jurors.-—On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with amendments.
'.
.
}
4
76
The Acting Attorney General moved that the Standing Orders be suspended, and the Bill be read a third time.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 18 of 1887.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO ENABLE THE TRUSTEES OF THE RHENISH MISSIONARY SOCIETY TO SELL AND DISPOSE OF CERTAIN LEASEHOLD PROPERTY WITHIN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 19 of 1887.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE NATURALISATION OF CH'AN KWOK YING.—On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 20 of 1887.
X
-On
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO CONSOLIDATE THE LAW RELATING TO VARIOUS Licences. the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed and numbered as Ordinance No. 21 of 1887. ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned sine die.
1
Read and confirmed, this 23rd day of May, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government.
.
طرا
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 30.
MONDAY, 23RD MAY, 1887.
77
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government in the absence of His Excellency SIR GEORGE FERGUSON BOWEN, G.C.M.G. His Honour the Acting Chief Justice, (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD.)
313
23
..
3
27
22
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID Sassoon,
on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE), by indisposition.
PHINEAS RYRIE, on leave.
""
The Council met pursuant to notice.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 13th instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government.
C.S.O.
2853 of 1886.
W. G. CAMERON.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $600 to be distributed among the original owners of cultivated lands at Little Hongkong, by way of compensation for loss sustained by them, by the resumption of a portion of their ground, which was included in the large plot at Deep Bay recently sold.
The Officer Administering the Government, although not recognizing the right of these original owners to any compensation whatever, yet, under the particular circumstances of the case, and as a matter of charity, recommends that a gratuity be distributed among them, to be charged against Premia on Land sales.
Government House, Hongkong, 23rd May, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that this vote be referred to the Finance Committee.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
VOTE OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 13th instant, (No. 1), and moved that the following sum referred to therein be voted:-
C.S.O.
Press for keeping the Magistracy Records,
948 of 1887.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
...$ 150.00
78
PAPERS.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administer-
ing the Government, laid upon the table the following papers:-
黴
(a.) Letter from the Crown Agents in connection with the Loan. (No. %).
£
(b.) Report of the Director of the Observatory for 1886, (No. 3).
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER REGULATING OF THE TRADE IN OPIUM.-Debate on the motion for the second reading of this Bill was resumed.
The Officer Administering the Government addressed the Council.
The Acting Attorney General addressed the Council.
Mr. CHATER addressed the Council.
The Acting Chief Justice addressed the Council.
Question-put and passed.
Bill read a second time.
The Acting Attorney General moved that the Council do now go into Committee on this Bill.
Mr. MACEWEN moved, at the request of the Chamber of Commerce, for a short delay to enable certain suggested amendments to be formulated.
Mr. CHATER seconded.
The Acting Attorney General asked to be informed, before next meeting, of any modifications in the Bill, in order that they may be considered.
The Officer Administering the Government wished the Council to understand that His Excellency had lost no time in acquainting the Council and the Chamber of Commerce of the approval by the Secretary of State of the proposals that had been previously made by them.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Acting Attorney General then moved that the Council be adjourned to Friday, the 27th instant, at 4 P.M.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
Question-put and passed.
Read and confirmed, this 27th day of May, 1887.
ARATHOON SETH, Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 31.
FRIDAY, 27TH MAY, 1887.
79
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
His Honour the Acting Chief Justice, (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
་
37
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11
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD), vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY, on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER.)
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (rice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
The Council met pursuant to notice.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 23rd instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 23rd instant, (No. 1), and moved that the following sum referred to therein be voted:-
C.S.0.
2853 of 1886. Compensation to certain owners of cultivated laud at Deep Bay,
The Treasurer seconded.
600.00
Question-put and passed.
PAPER.--The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administer- ing the Government, laid upon the table the following paper, and explained that it would not be published until the Rejoinder to it, by the Sanitary Board, had been received:-
Dr. Ho Kai's Protest in connection with the Public Health Bill. (No. 4).
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR THE BETTER REGULATING OF THE TRADE IN OPIUM.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Bill reported with amendments.
On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Standing Orders were suspended, and the Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed and numbered as Ordinance No. 22 of 1887.
THE PUBLIC HEALTH BILL.-The Officer Administering the Government informed the Council that a translation of this Bill in Chinese would be published, and that a meeting would be convened about the first week in July to proceed with the consideration of the Bill.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned sine die.
Read and confirmed, this 8th day of July, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ,
Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 32.
TUESDAY, 21ST JUNE, 1887.
81
·PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
3
93
25
11
3
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the Acting Attorney General, (Edward JAMES ACKROYD), vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY, on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to notice.
The Officer Administering the Government addressed the Council, and moved that the following telegram be despatched to Her Most Gracious Majesty The QUEEN, through Her Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for the Colonies: --
We, the Governor and Legislature of the Colony of Hongkong in Council assembled, desire on this auspicious day to assure Your Majesty from this distant outpost of Your Empire on behalf of this Council and all Your Majesty's loving subjects here of our most loyal and devoted attachment to Your Majesty's throne and person, and of our fervid hope that Your Majesty's glorious reign may long continue both prosperous and peaceful. Thanksgiving services to-day at various places of worship. Governor and Members of Legislative Council attend officially at the Cathedral. Influential committee of inhabitants have decided to commemorate Jubilee by erecting statue of Her Majesty, and are collecting funds for that purpose and for fête and general rejoicings in November.
Mr. RYRIE seconded, and addressed the Council.
Question-put and passed.
The Council then adjourned to S. John's Cathedral, to attend Divine Service.
Read and confirmed, this 8th day of July, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ, Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL No. 33.
FRIDAY, 8TH JULY, 1887.
83
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), cice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
"
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27
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17
13
22
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the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD), vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY, on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to summons.
The Minutes of the last two Meetings, held on the 27th May and 21st June, 1887, respectively, were read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
C.S.O.
1436 of 1887.
W. G. CAMERON.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $5,000 to defray the cost of extending and completing Richmond Road beyond Richmond Terrace, and of developing and preparing further building sites, in that locality, for auction sale.
Government House, Hongkong, 23rd June, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that this vote be referred to the Finance Committee.
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
PAPER.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administer- ing the Government, laid upon the table the following paper :---
The Colonial Surgeon's Report for 1886. (No. 3).
QUESTIONS. Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked the following questions:-
(a.) Whether Marine Certificates granted in Singapore are still in force in this Colony, and, if so, the reason why the Government refused the application of Captain Hamlin to have his name endorsed on the Register of the S.S. "Soochow," in March this year?
(b.) What are the intentions of the Government, with regard to holders of Marine Certificates granted in Hongkong previous to 1st January, 1884, and what are the instructions of the Secretary of State concerning the status of the holders of such Certificates?
The Acting Attorney General replied.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE 16 OF 1887.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a first time.
;
}
84
The
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.The Acting Attorney General moved the second reading of this Bill, and addressed the Council on the intention of the Government to relegate some of its clauses to the new Building Ordinance.
The Surveyor General seconded.
Mr. RYRIE addressed the Council, and moved that the second reading of the Bill be postponed for a fortnight.
Mr. WONG SHING addressed the Council, and seconded the motion for the postponement. Mr. MACEWEN addressed the Council with regard to certain clauses of the Bill.
The Surveyor General addressed the Council regarding the clauses to be relegated to the Building Ordinance.
His Excellency addressed the Council, and said that there was no objection to the second reading of the Bill being postponed for a fortnight.
NOTICE OF QUESTION.-The Honourable WONG SHING gave notice that at the next Meeting he would ask a question respecting the taxation of Salt Fish and other food imported into the Colony.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 22nd instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 22nd day of July, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ,
Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, No. 34.
FRIDAY, 22ND JULY, 1887.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
85
His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
1)
11
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";
"1
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD), vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY, on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JAckson,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 8th July, were read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Adininistering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 8th July, 1887, (No. 14), and moved that the following sum referred to therein be voted, viz.:-
C.S.0.
1436 of 1887.
To defray the cost of extending and completing Richmond Road beyond Richmond Terrace, and of developing and preparing further building sites in that locality, for auction sale,..
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
..$5,000.00
The Honourable P. RYKIE presented a Petition for the removal of the Public Urinal in front of the Clock Tower, and addressed the Council on the subject.
The Surveyor General replied that in view of the great public convenience which the place referred to is found to be, the Government regrets its inability to accede to the prayer of the Petition, and that the place will always be kept in such a condition as not to be a nuisance.
QUESTION. EMIGRATION ORDINANCE AND VOYAGES TO AUSTRALIA.-Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to notice, asked His Excellency the Administrator to appoint a Commission to enquire into the question of the proposed modification of the Emigration Ordinance, about which a correspondence had lately taken place between the Government and the Chamber of Commerce.
The Acting Attorney General replied that it is not necessary to appoint a Commission, as it would not elicit any further information beyond what the Government had already obtained.
QUESTION. THE TAX ON SALT FISH.-Mr. WONG SHING, pursuant to notice, asked:
Whether it is the case that a tax has recently been imposed on Salt Fish and other articles of food
imported into the Colony?
His Excellency replied that the matter was under consideration.
The Acting Chief Justice addressed the Council on the subject of the Customs Stations. BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE 16 OF 1887.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a second time.
The Acting Attorney General moved that the Council do go into Committee on this Bill. The Council went into Committee on the Bill.
Bill reported with an amendment.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that, at the next meeting of Council, he would move the third reading of this Bill.
,'
:
86
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE. COLONY OF HONGKONG.--The Acting Attorney General renewed the motion for the second reading of this Bill.
The Surveyor General seconded.
Mr. RYRIE moved that the second reading of the Bill be postponed.
Mr. BELL-IRVING seconded.
The Acting Attorney General opposed the amendment.
Discussion ensued.
The amendment was then put, and a division taken, which resulted as follows:-
Ayes.
Honourable C. P. CHATER.
J. BELL-IRVING.
"
A. P. MACEWEN.
>>
WONG SHING.
"}
P. RYRIE.
17.
Noes.
THE HARBOUR MASTER.
THE SURVEYOR GENERAL.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER. THE ACTING Attorney General, THE ACTING COLONIAL SECRETARY. THE ACTING CHIEF JUSTICE.
The amendment was therefore lost by a majority of one.
After some discussion, His Excellency put the original motion to the Council, and it was carried without a division.
It was then agreed that the Bill be printed with the proposed amendments and published. Adjournment:—The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 5th August, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 5th day of August, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ, Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General, Administering the Government.
87
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, No. 35.
FRIDAY, 5TH AUGUST, 1887.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
*
>>
>>
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD), vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY, on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYTRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 22nd ultimo, were read and confirmed.
QUESTION. Mr. BELL-IRVING, pursuant to notice, asked: -
On what grounds is it proposed to levy taxes on such institutions as the Race Club, the Cricket Club, the Recreation Club, the Racquet Court, and the Ladies' Recreation Club, most of which have been already specially exempted from taxation by authority of His Excellency's predecessors in the administration of the Government?
The Treasurer replied that no such proposal as seems to be contemplated in the question now. before the Council had been made, and that the subject was still under consideration.
His Excellency explained to the Council that this is a matter to be dealt with by the Legislative Council.
-
Mr. MACEWEN, pursuant to private notice, asked:-What decision had been arrived at with reference to the publicity of the Sanitary Board's proceedings.
His Excellency replied that there is no objection whatever to the proceedings, as far as they relate to matters of public interest, being conducted in public.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG,On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council went into Committee on this Bill.
Progress was reported at section 19, section 3, sub-sections 4, 9, and 10 and sections 4, 5, 6, and 11. being reserved for further consideration.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ORDINANCE 16 OF 1887-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Bill passed, and numbered as Ordinance No. 23 of 1887.
ADJOURNMENT.The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 12th instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 12th day of August, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ, Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General, Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, No. 36.
FRIDAY, 12TH AUGUST, 1887.
89
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
29
77
""
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD), vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY, on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
23
WONG SHING.
"}
23.
""
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, On leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
:
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 5th instant, were read and confirmed.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council resumed consideration in Committee of this Bill.
Progress reported at Section 15 with several amendments.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 19th instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 19th day of August, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ, Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, No. 37.
FRIDAY, 19TH AUGUST, 1887.
91
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART.)
>"
""
""
";
+
""
""
""
""
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD) vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY, on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE.) HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 5th instant, were read and confirmed.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.--On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council resumed consideration in Committee of this Bill.
Progress reported at Section 42 with amendments.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 26th instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 26th day of August, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ, Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, No. 38.
FRIDAY, 26TH AUGUST, 1887.
93
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART).
:)
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD) vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY, on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment..
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 19th instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minutes by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
C.S.0.
690 of 188T.
C.S.0.
1769 of 1887.
W. G. CAMERON,
The Officer Adininistering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $2,050 for the purchase of 50 Cranks for the use of prisoners in Victoria Gaol, as Crank labour is so much felt, and therefore so effective a deterrent to crime, and consequently so important a consideration, especially with our limited prison accommodation.
Government House, Hongkong, 23rd August, 1887.
W. G. CAMERON.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $120 for the salary of a Copying Clerk to the Municipal Valuer at the rate of $40 per month, for 3 months,
Government House, Hongkong, 23rd August, 1887.
....$
120.00
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that these votes be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.--On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council resumed consideration in Committee of this Bill.
Progress reported at Section 70 with amendments.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 2nd proximo, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 2nd day of September, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ,
Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, No. 39.
FRIDAY, 2ND SEPTEMBER, 1887.
95
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR George
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART).
";
>>
33
27
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD) vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY. on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILliam Keswick, on leave). CATCHICK PAUL. CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SAS-
SOON, on leave).
ABSENT:
The Honourable ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN, (vice the Honourable THOMAS JACKSON,
on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 26th instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTES OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 26th ultimo, (No. 1), and moved that the following sums referred to therein be voted, viz.:-
(1.) For the purchase of 50 Cranks for Victoria Gaol,
....$ 2,050.00
(2.) Salary of a Copying Clerk to the Municipal Valuer, for 3 months, at $40
per month...
120.00
$ 2.170.00
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
PAPER.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administer- ing the Government, laid upon the table the following paper :-
Extracts from the Report of the Captain Superintendent of Police for the year 1886.
(No. 3).
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council resumed consideration in Committee of this Bill.
Progress reported at Section 90 with amendments.
ADJOURNMENT.—The Council then adjourned until Friday, the 9th instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 9th day of September, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ, Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government.
:
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, No.
No. 40.
FRIDAY, 9TH SEPTEMBER, 1887.
97
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART).
>>
27
>>
*
">
>>
33
the Acting Attorney General, (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD) vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY, on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID Sassoon,
on leave).
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 2nd instant, were read and confirmed.
VOTE OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
0.5.0.
1709 of 1887.
W. G. CAMERON,
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $1,000 as remuneration to Mr. BRUCE SHEPHERD, for services rendered by him in connection with the Land Commission.
Government House, Hongkong, 2nd September, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that this vote be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council resumed consideration in Committee of this Bill.
The Acting Attorney General noved the adoption of a new Section to be numbered 5.
The Acting Colonial Secretary seconded.
The Section was agreed to with an amendment.
On the motion of Mr. RYRIE, seconded by Mr. CHATER, Part VIII of the Bill was postponed. Section 85 of the Bill was ordered to be struck out..
Schedule A was passed with an amendment.
Schedule B was passed with an amendment.
His Excellency then addressed the Council, and expressed his regret at the resignation by the Honourable T. JACKSON of his seat in the Council.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council adjourned until Monday, the 19th instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 19th day of September, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ, Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General, Administering the Government.
i
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, No. 41.
99
MONDAY, 19TH SEPTEMBER, 1887.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
His Honour, the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART).
**
25
**
::
་་
the Acting Attorney General (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD), vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY, on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE.
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave).
CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
NEW MEMBER.Mr. A. P. MACEWEN having, on the nomination of the Chamber of Commerce, been appointed a Member of the Council in the room of Mr. T. JACKSON, resigned, took his seat at the table, the usual Oath having previously been tendered to him by the Acting Governor.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 9th instant, were read and confirmeż.
PAPERS. His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government read the following Despatches from Her Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for the Colonies:-
(1.) Despatch respecting the celebration of Her Majesty's Jubilee. (No. 3).
(2.) Despatch respecting the appointment of Sir GEORGE WILLIAM DES VOUX, K.C.M.G. to
be Governor and Commander-in-Chief of Hongkong. (No. 34).
Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government :---
C.S.0. 2054 of 1887.
W. G. CAMERON.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sum of $25,000 towards the Jubilee Fund, to enable this Colony worthily to celebrate and commemo- rate the 50th anniversary of Her Majesty's glorious and beneficent_reign-so especially memorable for the marvellous progress and prosperity of our Colonial Empire (Hongkong, a notable example)-and the loyalty and attachment of the Colonists towards the throne. The Honorary Treasurer to the Jubilee Committee reports that a similar sum will be raised among the British and Foreign Communities, exclusive of the Chinese subscriptions. It is proposed to erect a statue of the Queen on the Praya, or most conspicuous site that can be chosen, not only as an emblem of England's sovereignty, and the devoted loyalty of Her Majesty's subjects in this Colony, English and Chinese, but as a token of the affectionate regard evinced towards our beloved Queen on this memorable occasion by our foreign friends who live among us, and have so generously contributed to the Jubilee Fund. The statue of the Queen will thus also commemorate the good-will which exists among all classes of the Community in the year 1887, and which it is hoped may ever continue; and the Governinent feel sure that in asking for this vote, it is merely giving expression to the wishes of the public.
Government House, Hongkong, 19th September, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary gave notice that, at the next Meeting, he would move that the Council approve of the Vote of $25,000 towards the Jubilee Fund.
100
VOTE OF MONEY REFERRED TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.--Read the following Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government:-
C.S.O. 2090 of 1887.
W. G. CAMERON.
The Officer Administering the Government recommends the Council to vote the sun of $1,500 for the purchase of a small corner of Inland Lot 24, in Queen's Road West, immediately below the hill whereon stands the Civil Hospital. The thoroughfare makes a sharp angle in skirting round the hill; and, as the traffic through Queen's Road West is incessant, it would be for the safety of riders in chairs and jinrickshas to shave off the small corner, and thus avoid the accidents which are always taking place at this spot.
Government House, Hongkong, 19th September, 1887.
The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that this vote be referred to the Finance Committee. The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
VOTES OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 9th instant, (No. 3), and moved that the following sum referred to therein be voted, viz.:-
C.S.O. Remuneration to Mr. BRUCE SHEPHERD, for services rendered in connection with
1709 of 1887.
the Land Commission,
.$ 1,000.00
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FOR AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG.-On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, the Council resumed consideration in Committee of this Bill.
Bill reported with amendments.
The Acting Attorney General gave notice that, at the next Meeting, he would move the third reading of this Bill.
ADJOURNMENT.-The Council adjourned until Friday, the 23rd instant, at 4 P.M.
Read and confirmed, this 23rd day of September, 1887.
J. M. GUTIERREZ, Acting Clerk of Councils.
W. G. CAMERON, Major-General,
Administering the Government.
1
:
$
4
1
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, No. 42.
FRIDAY, 23RD SEPTEMBER, 1887.
PRESENT:
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM GORDON CAMERON, C.B., Administering the Government.
101
His Honour the Acting Chief Justice (JAMES RUSSELL), vice His Honour SIR GEORGE
PHILLIPPO, Knt., on leave.
The Honourable the Acting Colonial Secretary, (FREDERICK STEWART).
""
>>
""
"?
;;
"}
the Acting Attorney General (EDWARD JAMES ACKROYD), vice the Honour-
able EDWARD LOUGHLIN O'MALLEY, on leave.
the Colonial Treasurer, (ALFRED LISTER).
the Surveyor General, (JOHN MACNEILE PRICE). HENRY GEORGE THOMSETT, R.N.
PHINEAS RYRIE. *
WONG SHING.
JOHN BELL-IRVING, (vice the Honourable WILLIAM KESWICK, on leave). CATCHICK PAUL CHATER, (vice the Honourable FREDERICK DAVID SASSOON,
on leave).
ALEXANDER PALMER MACEWEN.
The Council met pursuant to adjournment.
The Minutes of the last Meeting, held on the 19th instant, were read and confirmed.
THE JUBILEE CELEBRATION. VOTE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary moved, pursuant to notice, that the Council vote the sum of $25,000 towards the celebration and commemoration of Her Majesty's Jubilee.
Mr. RYRIE seconded.
Question-put and carried unanimously.
VOTE OF MONEY PASSED BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE.-The Acting Colonial Secretary, by direction of His Excellency the Officer Adininistering the Government, laid upon the table the Report of the proceedings of the Finance Committee, dated the 19th instant, (No. 17), and moved that the following sum referred to therein be voted, viz.:-
2090 of 1887.
C.S.O. For the purchase of a small corner of Inland Lot 24, in Queen's Road West, immediately below the hill whereon stands the Civil Hospital,............................
The Treasurer seconded.
Question-put and passed.
$ 1,500.00
BILL ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE for AMENDING THE LAWS RELATING TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE COLONY OF HONGKONG. On the motion of the Acting Attorney General, seconded by the Acting Colonial Secretary, this Bill was recommitted, in order that certain verbal alterations might be made. Bill reported with some verbal amendments, and with the addition of a suspending clause. The Acting Attorney General then moved the third reading of the Bill.
The Surveyor General seconded.
Mr. MACEWEN opposed the third reading of the Bill, and addressed the Council.
Mr. RYRIE seconded, and addressed the Council.
Discussion ensued.
The amendment that the Bill be not read a third time was then put, and a division taken, which resulted as follows:-
Ayes.
Honourable A. P. MACEWEN.
C. P. CHATER.
""
J. BELL-IRVING.
WONG SHING.
>>
P. RYRIE.
The amendment was therefore lost by a majority of one.
The Bill was read a third time.
Question put-that this Bill do pass.
Noes.
THE HARBOUR MASTER.
THE SURVEYOR GENERAL. THE COLONIAL TREASURER. THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL. THE ACTING COLONIAL SECRETARY.
THE ACTING CHIEF JUSTICE.
102
The Un-Official Members wishing to record their votes against the passing of the Bill, a division was taken, which resulted as follows:-
Ayes.
THE HARBOUR MASTER.
THE SURVEYOR GENERAL.
THE COLONIAL TREASURER.
THE ACTING ATTORNEY GENERAL.
THE ACTING COLONIAL SECRETARY.
THE ACTING CHIEF JUSTICE.
Noes.
Honourable A. P. MACEWEN.
C. P. CHATER.
""
J. BELL-IRVING.
""
WONG SHING.
27
P. RYRIE.
The Bill was passed by a majority of one, and numbered as Ordinance No. 24 of 1887. CLOSING OF THE SESSION.-His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government then closed the Session with the following speech:-
HONOURABLE GENTLEMEN OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL,
The time has now arrived for closing this session, and it will be for the consideration of His Excellency the Governor, Sir G. WILLIAM DES VEUX when the Council is to re-assemble.
The Session of 1886-1887 has been unusually prolonged for the purpose of disposing of that vexed and long pending question "The Public Health Ordinance," and it is hoped you will be well repaid for your labours, when, in the course of time, the benefits conferred by this Bill will have practically manifested themselves, and been duly recognized by the Public.
The Opium Ordinance, as far as can be seen, is fully realizing the anticipations of Government in improving our friendly relations with China, whilst in no way injuring the interests of the honest trader. The Ordinance has been worked locally without, I believe, any friction or inconveniences to our own people, and the Chinese Commissioner of Customs informs me that smuggling has been effectually stopped.
Complaints on the part of the merchants regarding increased duties imposed on certain articles of commerce have been met in a friendly and accommodating spirit by the Chinese Foreign Collectorate, and my despatches on the subject, which are, confidentially, open to the perusal of Honourable Members, will, I trust, have properly represented the commercial interests of the Community.
The invaluable services of His Honour, Acting Chief Justice RUSSELL, who has been' chiefly instrumental in bringing about so happy a settlement of this difficult and embarassing Opium question, have been fully recognized by Her Majesty's Government and the Govern- ment of Hongkong, and he well deserves the thanks of the whole community whose interests he has so well represented.
Mr. SETH has been most indefatigable and able in his management of the Opium Office, and to him is largely due the successful working of the Ordinance.
Among other Ordinances which have been passed this Session and which call for remarks
are :-
1. Legislative Council witnesses, and the Commissioners Powers Ordinances. These are important additions to our Statute Book, as they enable the Legislative Council to compel the attendance of witnesses and to examine them on oath, whilst the "Commissioners Powers Ordinance" authorizes the Governor, for the purpose of instituting and conducting any inquiry which may be necessary, to appoint Commissioners who will have all the powers of the Supreme Court for the purpose of enforcing the attendance of witnesses, compelling the production of documents, and punishing for contempt.
2. The Law concerning Joint Stock Companies has by Ordinance No. 30 of 1886 been amended and improved. by the introduction into this Colony of the provisions of certain Imperial Statutes.
3. The Law of Defamation and Libel has by Ordinance No. 5 of 1887 been modified and amended by introducing the provisions of the Imperial Act respecting Newspapers and
Libels.
4. The cause of order and peace in the Colony has been further promoted by the passing-
i. Of an Ordinance regulating the carriage and possession of arms.
ii. Of an Ordinance enabling Government to take steps for the suppression of the
Triad and other unlawful Societies, and
iii. Of an Ordinance for the more effectual prevention of crime by placing under police supervision all criminals who are liberated from gaol before expiry of
their sentence.
The necessity of the second mentioned Ordinance was strongly urged on the Government by a Commission which was appointed to enquire into Secret Societies, and which proved to what an extent these unlawful Societies existed here, and the power which they were enabled to exercise, a power which they used not only for their personal benefit, but often to the prejudice of justice by the help which they extended to criminals.
1
-
103
5. Closely allied to these three Ordinances is that of No. 16 of 1887 empowering the Courts to award whipping for certain crimes-an Ordinance which it is hoped will act as a strong and effectual deterrent, and will therefore not be often put into force.
6. The Cattle Diseases, Slaughter House, and Markets Ordinance (No. 17 of 1887) is a useful and practical piece of legislation, the object of which is to secure the Colony from the introduction of cattle plague or other infectious diseases, the better regulation of our slaughter houses, and the cleanliness and good order of our markets.
7. The Ordinances relating to the
1. Post Office,
2. Police Force,
3. Juries and Licences,
have been amended and consolidated by several Ordinances passed this session.
8. The work of the Law Revision Committee and the preparation of the revised edition of the Ordinances has been furthered by the passing of these Ordinances and by the Statute Law Revision Ordinance No. 4 of 1887, which finally repeals and removes from our Statute Book no less than 102 Ordinances and parts of 5 others.
9. The protection of adopted daughters and young girls has been furthered by the passing of Ordinance No. 9 of 1887.
The necessity of such an Ordinance is clearly shown by the fact that there are at present no less than 205 young girls under the protection of the Registrar General, the most of whom, if not all, would have been brought up to a life of shame and immorality, had it not been for the intervention of the authorities. It is hoped that the manner in which this Ordinance, which at first was viewed with a certain amount of apprehension on the part of the Chinese, has been worked, has removed all those fears and proved to the Chinese residents that the only object which the Government had in passing it was to put a stop to a shameful traffic and to protect those who could not protect themselves.
The Annual Reports from the several Government Departments for the year 1886 have already placed the public in possession of the necessary information regarding them, and leave me but little to say excepting to testify to the zeal, energy, capacity for work, and devotion to the public service evinced by the heads of departments and their subordinates, and which I have seldom seen equalled, certainly not surpassed, in any Colony.
The recommendations of the Police Commission have mostly been adopted or are being adopted as opportunity offers, and considering the great difficulties the Police labour under, the facilities offenders have of escape and the little assistance rendered by the Chinese public in the detection of crime or apprehension of criminals, I think we may be well satisfied that good order is on the whole so well preserved.
A better acquaintance with the Chinese language, which it is desired to encourage on the part of the English Contingent, would much conduce to efficiency.
The improvement in the discipline and management of the Gaol has been well maintained, and acts as a wholesome deterrent to crime.
The large increase in the total tonnage of shipping entering this port, as shewn in the Harbour Master's report, speaks well for the growing prosperity of the Colony, which is still further evidenced by the steadily increasing population and extensive building and reclamation operations, either in progress or being planned.
There is apparently every sign that this prosperity, in which we are happy to see our Chinese fellow-citizens so largely participating, is of a substantial and lasting character, and that the Colony has a great future before it.
In respect of Public Works and Improvements, as satisfactory progress has been made as could be expected under the difficulties of the rainy season.
Among the more important undertakings of the year may be mentioned the extension on improved sanitary principles of the main sewers of the town. Another instalment of nearly two miles of these new main drains has been added to those previously existing since my predecessor last addressed you.
The new Victoria College works are now well advanced, and it is anticipated that the new building will be ready for occupation during the earlier portion of next year. Unforeseen legal difficulties in clearing the Central Market of its tenants have led to some delay in the commencement of the new Public Market, but these difficulties having now been surmounted, arrangements have been made to begin the new market buildings early next month when the rainy season will have practically come to a close.
The tunnel under the Tytam mountain range being now open throughout, the extension of the public water supply is rapidly approaching completion.
· 104
I have this day received the Secretary of State's permission, which I asked him to telegraph, to lay on the table the important report on land tenure submitted to Government by the Crown Lands Commission, which, as will be seen, has spared no pains in furnishing all the necessary information, and whose valuable suggestions will receive the most attentive consideration.
Further representations have been made to the home Government on the necessity of some decision being arrived at on the Praya Extension question.
With regard to the defences of the Colony, a detailed statement was made by me as recently as the 29th April, 1887, since which progress has been as satisfactory as the rains have permitted.
When the guns arrive, the forts under construction can be finished in a very short time. The construction of a Breakwater on Kellett's bank, which is recognized on all sides as essential for the defence of the Western entrance of the harbour, is now under consideration, and is only a question of money.
It is gratifying to find that the important work of education continues to make steady progress. The examinations now conducted by the Cambridge Syndicate have had a powerful effect in infusing a spirit of healthy emulation into our Schools; and the most recent institution, the Medical College for Chinese, is, I trust, destined to mark an era in the educational advancement of Hongkong, and prove of incalculable benefit to the Chinese.
The financial position of the Colony is sound. At the end of August, we had a balance of nearly $600,000; upwards of half a million of dollars ($521,447) here and upwards of $90,000, ($92,307) the equivalent of £15,000, at interest in London; these £15,000, being the unexpended balance of the Loan.
The Revenue for the year was estimated at $1,291,270, and during the eight months ending August last the receipts amounted to $977,402.
The Premiums on Land Sales were estimated at $45,000, and during the first eight months of the year we received no less than $81,717.
Of the Loan of £200,000, £15,000 remain unexpended.
The estimated Ordinary Expenditure was $1,245,434, and during the first eight months of the year we expended $988,337.
The Extraordinary Expenditure was estimated at $760,000, and up till the 31st August we had expended $496,385.
The only exceptional increases on expenditure were the new launch Victoria, $12,000, and the Hunghòm Market $6,000.
The amount provided for Defence Works was $696,000, of which $496,083 have been expended. It must be remembered that when the loan of £200,000 was voted, the home Government had only asked for £56,000 for the Fortifications, afterwards increased to £116,000, leaving us short by £60,000 of the sum required for other public works-yet additional loans and rates have been dispensed with, and the opponents of the Spirit Farm, relying on the elasticity of the revenue from existing sources, have so far been justified, and it is hoped may be so in the future.
In conclusion, Honourable Gentlemen, I wish to thank you before we separate for your valuable assistance in the legislative business brought before you, and your unvarying courtesy and friendly feeling on all occasions and under all circumstances, whatever differences of opinion may have sometimes arisen, on public questions.
I have also to thank you for the supplies so liberally voted for the Public service, and for the sum you have this day allowed to be appropriated to supplement the very handsome public subscription to the Jubilee Fund and enable the loyal people of this Colony to worthily celebrate the 50th Anniversary of their beloved Sovereign's accession to the throne.
I now declare the Session to be closed.
+
SPEECH OF HIS EXCELLENCY THE OFFICER ADMINISTERING THE
GOVERNMENT AT THE OPENING OF THE SESSION OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF HONGKONG,
5TH NOVEMBER, 1886.
139
HONOURABLE MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL,
As I shall in all probability be soon relieved of the responsible duties of administering the Government of this Colony, it would obviously be imprudent for me to make any statements, which might pledge the Governor, regarding the business that will be transacted during the ensuing session.
2. There are, however, some public measures either already under consideration, or in regard to which recommendations have been received from Her Majesty's Secretary of State for the Colonies, which ought to be pushed on as soon as possible.
3. As regards the Financial position of the Colony, the Acting Colonial Secretary and Auditor General, in his report of 16th September last accompanying the Estimates for next year, stated that he anticipated that the Revenue of the present year, which had been estimated at $1,230,973, would reach $1,304,000. The actual receipts for the first three quarters of the year have been $1,031,380, or very nearly four-fifths of that amount. There is therefore every reason for believing that his anticipations will be realized.
4. It is, however, very necessary to continue to exercise strict supervision over the expenditure of the Colony, for the year 1888 will commence, (as will be seen at page 3 of next year's Estimates) with a probable balance in hand of only
Add to this the balance of the Loan, say ...
there will consequently be only
....$115,000
.$230,000
.$345,000
applicable to the extraordinary works already commenced, for the completion of which during 1888, the following sums will be required
Tytam Water Works about,
Victoria College,
Police Buildings, ....
Military Defences,
.$12,000
55,000
....
70,000
.170,000
$307,000
Nothing, it will be observed, has been set down for Sanitary Works during 1888. Means must be devised, when the Estimates for that year are prepared, for providing funds for this important object.
5. Amongst the measures to which I have referred in para. 2 is a Bill dealing with the Triad and other Secret Societies, as also another regulating the carrying and possession of arms, both which have already been drafted and submitted to the Colonial Office. These Bills were recommended by a Commission which I appointed some time ago to inquire into representations made to me by the Captain Super- intendent of Police and also by the Superintendent of the Gaol, respecting the growing power of the Triad Society. The proceedings of this Commission were necessarily confidential, and it was only on this understanding that much of the evidence was obtained. The Secretary of State has already approved of the pro- posal to pass a new Bill dealing with Triads.
6. Another important measure which will be introduced early in the Session is a Bill for the prevention of abuses connected with the so-called adoption of female children, and domestic service by female children. The necessity of some
:
140
legislation on the subject has been long recognized, and is shewn by the fact that at the present moment there are nearly 200 girls of tender age who are being taken care of under the direction of the Registrar General, assisted by the Po Léung Kuk, and who, but for that care, would probably be consigned sooner or later to a life of infamy. The powers which the Registrar General possesses are however considered inadequate for the purpose in view. Difficulties of a legal and constitutional nature have hitherto prevented the introduction of the Bill. But these difficulties have been now overcome, and it only remains for the Legislature to deal with the Bill, the principle of which has been approved by the Secretary of State.
7. The Secretary of State has also expressed his approval of a suggestion made by the Superintendent of the Gaol in his annual report, that prisoners who have earned a remission of sentence should be placed, as in England, under the super- vision of the Police, so that if found returning to a criminal career they might at once be sent back to prison to complete their original sentences. A Bill giving effect to this recommendation will be laid before
you.
8. A Commission appointed by me to report on representations made by the Superintendent on the overcrowded state of the Gaol has recommended the inflic- tion of whipping for certain offences. I have no authority for introducing a change in the law of such importance, but a Bill embodying the recommendations of the Commission has been prepared and sent home for consideration by the Imperial Government.
9. I have also forwarded for the consideration of the Secretary of State a Bill which was read a first time last Session entitled the European Vagrancy Ordinance. This Bill proposes to deal with those Europeans who are frequently landed or dis- charged from vessels in this port and who are either destitute or become so after a short period. As International questions are involved in this measure, it was with- drawn after the first reading, in order that it might be submitted for consideration by the Imperial Government before it was passed.
10. The Sanitary Board, which has been enlarged by the appointment of four additional Un-official Members, have had under their consideration for some time past the provisions of a Draft Public Health Bill which were included by the Surveyor General in a general Ordinance relating to Buildings, prepared by him a year ago. It has now been decided that it would be more convenient that the provisions originally proposed to be contained therein should be dealt with separately in two Bills, one confined to technical building matters only and the other relating to purely sanitary matters. I hope that both these Bills will be laid before the Council during the present Session.
11. Besides the Bills already referred to the following Draft Ordinances have been prepared by the Law Commission or by the Acting Attorney General, and are ready for consideration by the Council.
1. An Ordinance for enabling the Legislative Council and any Committee thereof to compel the attendance of and to administer oaths to witnesses.
2. An Ordinance to enable the Governor of Hongkong to appoint Com- missions under the Seal of the Colony and to confer certain powers on Commissioners so appointed necessary for conducting inquiries.
3. An Ordinance to amend the Laws relating to Wills.
4. An Ordinance to amend the Law respecting defamatory words and
Libel.
5. An Ordinance to amend and consolidate the Law of Evidence.
6. An Ordinance to amend and consolidate the Laws relating to Jurors
and Juries.
1
141
7. An Ordinance to consolidate the Laws relating to good order and
cleanliness.
8. An Ordinance to promote the revision of the Statute Law.
9. An Ordinance to amend the Companies Ordinances 1865 to 1886.
10. An Ordinance relating to Bills of Lading.
11. An Ordinance to consolidate the Laws relating to the Post Office.
+
12. An Ordinance for the better preservation of Books printed in the
Colony.
13. An Ordinance for the regulation of Markets and the importation of
cattle.
14. An Ordinance consolidating and amending the Laws relating to St.
John's Cathedral.
15. An Ordinance to facilitate the incorporation of Religious, Educational,
and Charitable Institutions.
16. An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to the registration of Trade
Marks.
12. The following Bills are also under consideration or preparation, and will, it is hoped, be introduced this Session :-
1. An Ordinance to consolidate and amend the Criminal Law Procedure.
2. An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Pawn Brokers.
3. An Ordinance to amend the Law relating to Coroners.
4. An Ordinance to consolidate and amend the Magistrates Ordinances.
13. The Commission appointed under Section 3 para. 7 of the Chefoo Agree- ment of 1876, and the additional article of July, 1885, has met and agreed condi- tionally to the terms of an arrangement, which however will not have effect, unless it is ratified by the Imperial Government as well as by that of China. I am unable therefore at present to enter into any explanations.
14. The representations of the Chamber of Commerce on the necessity of constructing a Lighthouse for the Southern approach to the Colony will be trans- mitted to the Secretary of State, as soon as I have received all the reports on the subject which have been called for. The Gap Rock is, in the opinion of those qualified to judge, the best situation for this Lighthouse, although it is more difficult of access than some of the other Islands in the immediate vicinity. This objection is, however, I believe, not insuperable.
15. I regret to say that the prospect of carrying out the scheme for the exten- sion of the Praya, in order to connect the Eastern and Western parts of the City seems as remote as ever. The original estimate of the cost of this work made by the Surveyor General was £45,000. This had to be raised subsequently to £71,000 in order to meet the objections of the Naval and Military Authorities, and although the whole of the land to be reclaimed, which is estimated at £160,000, was to be appropriated to their use, the War Office and the Admiralty declined to bear any portion of the cost. The Secretary of State for the Colonies on the other hand has considered that one half of the cost should be borne by the Imperial Departments in consideration of the great extension of ground that they would gain. General CAMERON has since recommended that a portion of the extra cost, entailed by the modification of the original plan should be borne by the War Office, but the Admiralty have stated that until some extension of their premises has been obtained, they must withhold their consent.
142
16. In respect of the larger public works and undertakings in which the Government has been engaged during the past twelve months, I may mention that, in spite of an unprecedentedly sickly season among the workmen at Tytam, good progress has been made in the construction of the new water-works, and that partial relief may be expected from the subsidiary supplies in connexion with these works, in the event of a drought occurring during next summer. The erection of Victoria College also progresses satisfactorily, and the new building will, I trust, be ready for occupation early in 1888. New Police buildings have been commenced both at Kennedy Town and at Mount Gough for the protection of the residents in those localities, and proposals will be duly submitted to you for the construction of Police Stations near Quarry Bay and at Aberdeen. Arrangements are also in course of completion for beginning the erection of the proposed new Central Market Building during the coming year.
17. In conclusion I am confident that our labours during the present session, probably the last at which I shall have the honour of co-operating with
you, will be marked by the same zeal for the welfare of the Colony that has always been manifested by the Members of this Council in past years, and that the measures to be submitted to you will receive at your hands that careful and attentive consi- deration which has always characterized the proceedings of this Council.
143
ADDRESS OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF HONGKONG IN REPLY TO THE
SPEECH OF HIS EXCELLENCY THE OFFICER ADMINISTERING THE
GOVERNMENT (THE HON. W. H. MARSH, C.M.G.) AT THE
OPENING OF THE SESSION ON THE 5TH
OF NOVEMBER, 1886.
MAY IT PLEASE YOUR EXCELLENCY,
We learn with satisfaction from the Address delivered by Your Excellency that the favourable anticipations formed respecting the Revenue of the Colony for this year will most probably be realized, and we believe that the increase which has yearly taken place in the Revenue will be maintained. We think we may safely rely upon the Revenue of 1888 being sufficient to meet the demands which may be made upon it. We agree with Your Excellency that it is still necessary to exercise a strict supervision over the expenditure.
2. We learn with pleasure that a sum of $12,000 is all that will be required in 1888 to complete the Taitam Water-Works.
3. Among the measures which Your Excellency proposes to present for the consideration of the Council, we attach special importance to the following:-
A Bill dealing with the Triad and other Secret Societies;
A Bill for the better Protection of young Girls; and
A Bill for the Police supervision of certain Criminals.
This last measure, in presence of the number of recommittals, we believe to be greatly needed.
4. We observe with approval that a Bill embodying the recommendation of the recent Gaol Commission respecting whipping for certain offences has been prepared.
5. With respect to the other Bills mentioned in Your Excellency's Address, we trust that they may, during this Session, be added to the Statute-book, as, judging from their titles, we believe that they will prove eminently beneficial to the interests of the Colony.
6. We learn with satisfaction that the question of a Lighthouse for the Southern approach to the Colony is at last receiving serious attention, and we hope that shortly this matter will take a practical shape. The want of such a light has been much felt for many years, and no other port of the world of the magnitude of Hongkong is without a leading light to its principal approach.
7. We join Your Excellency in regretting that there should be any difficulty in carrying out a scheme so desirable and so greatly needed as the extension of the Praya.
8. It is satisfactory to learn that progress is being made with the larger Public Works and undertakings of the Colony, and that arrangements for the erection of the new Central Market are well advanced.
9. We have heard with regret that this is probably the last Session during which Your Excellency will preside over this Council, and we beg to assure you of our hearty co-operation in all such measures conducive to the welfare of the Colony as Your Excellency may bring before us.
453
SPEECH OF HIS EXCELLENCY THE OFFICER ADMINISTERING THE GOVERN-
MENT AT THE PROROGATION OF THE SESSION OF THE
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF HONGKONG,
23RD SEPTEMBER, 1887.
HONOURABLE GENTLEMEN OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL,
The time has now arrived for closing this session, and it will be for the con- sideration of His Excellency the Governor, Sir G. W. DES VEUX when the Council is to re-assemble.
The Session of 1886-1887 has been unusually prolonged for the purpose of disposing of that vexed and long pending question "The Public Health Ordinance," and it is hoped you will be well repaid for your labours, when, in the course of time, the benefits conferred by this Bill will have practically manifested themselves, and been duly recognized by the Public.
The Opium Ordinance, as far as can be seen, is fully realizing the anticipations of Government in improving our friendly relations with China, whilst in no way injuring the interests of the honest trader. The Ordinance has been worked locally without, I believe, any friction or inconveniences to our own people, and the Chinese Commissioner of Customs informs me that smuggling has been effectually stopped.
Complaints on the part of the merchants regarding increased duties imposed on certain articles of commerce have been met in a friendly and accommodating spirit by the Chinese Foreign Collectorate, and my despatches on the subject, which are, confidentially, open to the perusal of Honourable Members, will, I trust, have pro- perly represented the commercial interests of the Community.
The invaluable services of His Honour, Acting Chief Justice RUSSELL, who has been chiefly instrumental in bringing about so happy a settlement of this difficult and embarassing Opium question, have been fully recognized by Her Majesty's Government and the Government of Hongkong, and he well deserves the thanks of the whole community whose interests he has so well represented.
Mr. SETH has been most indefatigable and able in his management of the Opium Office, and to him is largely due the successful working of the Ordinance.
Among other Ordinances which have been passed this Session and which call for remarks are:-
1. Legislative Council witnesses, and the Commissioners Powers Ordinances. These are important additions to our Statute Book, as they enable the Legislative Council to compel the attendance of witnesses and to examine them on oath, whilst the "Commissioners Powers Ordinance" authorizes the Governor, for the purpose of instituting and conducting any inquiry which may be necessary, to appoint Commissioners who will have all the powers of the Supreme Court for the purpose of enforcing the attendance of witnesses, compelling the production of documents, and punishing for contempt.
2. The Law concerning Joint Stock Companies has by Ordinance No. 30 of 1886 been amended and improved by the introduction into this Colony of the pro- visions of certain Imperial Statutes.
3. The Law of Defamation and Libel has by Ordinance No. 5 of 1887 been modified and amended by introducing the provisions of the Imperial Act respecting · Newspapers and Libels.
.
:
►
►
454
4. The cause of order and peace in the Colony has been further promoted by the passing-
i. Of an Ordinance regulating the carriage and possession of arms.
ii. Of an Ordinance enabling Government to take steps for the suppression of
the Triad and other unlawful Societies, and
iii. Of an Ordinance for the more effectual prevention of crime by placing under police supervision all criminals who are liberated from gaol before expiry of their sentence.
The necessity of the second mentioned Ordinance was strongly urged on the Government by a Commission which was appointed to enquire into Secret Societies, and which proved to what an extent these unlawful Societies existed here, and power which they were enabled to exercise, a power which they used not only for their personal benefit, but often to the prejudice of justice by the help which they extended to criminals.
the
5. Closely allied to these three Ordinances is that of No. 16 of 1887 empower- ing the Courts to award whipping for certain crimes--an Ordinance which it is hoped will act as a strong and effectual deterrent, and will therefore not be often put into force.
6. The Cattle Diseases, Slaughter House, and Markets Ordinance (No. 17 of 1887) is a useful and practical piece of legislation, the object of which is to secure the Colony from the introduction of cattle plague or other infectious diseases. the better regulation of our slaughter houses, and the cleanliness and good order of
our markets.
7. The Ordinances relating to the
1. Post Office,
2. Police Force,
3. Juries and Licences,
have been amended and consolidated by several Ordinances passed this session.
8. The work of the Law Revision Committee and the preparation of the revised edition of the Ordinances has been furthered by the passing of these Ordi- nances and by the Statute Law Revision Ordinance No. 4 of 1887, which finally repeals and removes from our Statute Book no less than 102 Ordinances and parts of 5 others.
9. The protection of adopted daughters and young girls has been furthered by the passing of Ordinance No. 9 of 1887.
The necessity of such an Ordinance is clearly shown by the fact that there are at present no less than 205 young girls under the protection of the Registrar General, the most of whom, if not all, would have been brought up to a life of shame and immorality, had it not been for the intervention of the authorities. It is hoped that the manner in which this Ordinance, which at first was viewed with a certain amount of apprehension on the part of the Chinese, has been worked, has removed all those fears and proved to the Chinese residents that the only object which the Government had in passing it was to put a stop to a shameful traffic and to protect those who could not protect themselves.
The Annual Reports from the several Government Departments for the year 1886 have already placed the public in possession of the necessary information regarding them, and leave me but little to say excepting to testify to the zeal, energy, capacity for work, and devotion to the public service evinced by the heads of departments and their subordinates, and which I have seldom seen equalled, certainly not surpassed, in any Colony.
The recommendations of the Police Commission have mostly been adopted or are being adopted as opportunity offers, and considering the great difficulties the Police labour under, the facilities offenders have of escape and the little assistance rendered by the Chinese public in the detection of crime or apprehension of criminals, I think we may be well satisfied that good order is on the whole so well preserved,
455
A better acquaintance with the Chinese language, which it is desired to en- courage on the part of the English Contingent, would much conduce to efficiency.
The improvement in the discipline and management of the Gaol has been well maintained, and acts as a wholesome deterrent to crime.
The large increase in the total tonnage of shipping entering this port, as shewn in the Harbour Master's report, speaks well for the growing prosperity of the Colony, which is still further evidenced by the steadily increasing population and extensive building and reclamation operations either in progress or being planned.
There is apparently every sign that this prosperity, in which we are happy to see our Chinese fellow-citizens so largely participating, is of a substantial and lasting character, and that the Colony has a great future before it.
In respect of Public Works and Improvements, as satisfactory progress has been made as could be expected under the difficulties of the rainy season.
Among the more important undertakings of the year may be mentioned the extension on improved sanitary principles of the main sewers of the town. Another instalment of nearly two miles of these new main drains has been added to those previously existing since my predecessor last addressed you.
The new Victoria College works are now well advanced, and it is anticipated that the new building will be ready for occupation during the earlier portion of next year. Unforeseen legal difficulties in clearing the Central Market of its tenants have led to some delay in the commencement of the new Public Market, but these difficulties having now been surmounted, arrangements have been made to begin the new market buildings early next month when the rainy season will have practically come to a close.
The tunnel under the Tytam mountain range being now open throughout, the extension of the public water supply is rapidly approaching completion.
I have this day received the Secretary of State's permission, which I asked him to telegraph, to lay on the table the important report on land tenure submitted to Government by the Crown Lands Commission, which, as will be seen, has spared no pains in furnishing all the necessary information, and whose valuable suggestions will receive the most attentive consideration.
Further representations have been made to the home Government on the necessity of some decision being arrived at on the Praya Extension question.
With regard to the defences of the Colony, a detailed statement was made by me as recently as the 29th April, 1887, since which progress has been as satis- factory as the rains have permitted.
When the guns arrive, the forts under construction can be finished in a very short time.
The construction of a Breakwater on Kellett's bank, which is recognized on all sides as essential for the defence of the Western entrance of the harbour, is now under consideration, and is only a question of money.
It is gratifying to find that the important work of education continues to make steady progress. The examinations now conducted by the Cambridge Syndicate have had a powerful effect in infusing a spirit of healthy emulation into our Schools; and the most recent institution, the Medical College for Chinese, is,. I trust, destined to mark an era in the educational advancement of Hongkong, and prove of incalculable benefit to the Chinese.
The financial position of the Colony is sound. At the end of August, we had a balance of nearly $600,000; upwards of half a million of dollars ($521,447) here and upwards of $90,000, ($92,307) the equivalent of £15,000, at interest in London; these £15,000, being the unexpended balance of the Loan.
The Revenue for the year was estimated at $1,291,270, aud during the eight months ending August last the receipts amounted to $977,402.
The Premiums on Land Sales were estimated at $45,000, and during the first eight months of the year we received no less than $81,717.
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:
456
Of the Loan of £200,000, £15,000 remain unexpended.
The estimated Ordinary Expenditure was $1,245,434, and during the first eight months of the year we expended $988,337.
The Extraordinary Expenditure was estimated at $760,000, and up till the 31st August we had expended $496,385.
The only exceptional increases on expenditure were the new launch Victoria, $12,000, and the Hunghòm Market $6,000. ·
The amount provided for Defence Works was $696,000, of which $496,083 have been expended. It must be remembered that when the loan of £200,000 was voted, the home Government had only asked for £56,000 for the Fortifications, afterwards increased to £116,000, leaving us short by £60,000 of the sum required for other public works-yet additional loans and rates have been dispensed with, and the opponents of the Spirit Farm, relying on the elasticity of the revenue from existing sources, have so far been justified, and it is hoped may be so in the future.
for
In conclusion, Honourable Gentlemen, I wish to thank you before we separate your valuable assistance in the legislative business brought before you, and your unvarying courtesy and friendly feeling on all occasions and under all circumstances, whatever differences of opinion may have sometimes arisen, on public questions.
I have also to thank you for the supplies so liberally voted for the Public service, and for the sum you have this day allowed to be appropriated to supple- ment the very handsome public subscription to the Jubilee Fund and enable the loyal people of this Colony to worthily celebrate the 50th Anniversary of their beloved Sovereign's accession to the throne.
I now declare the Session to be closed.
W. G. CAMERON.
169
No. 1886.
39
HONGKONG.
CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING A PROPOSED LIGHTHOUSE ON GAP ROCK OR ITS VICINITY.
Presented to the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 17th September, 1886.
Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government.
W. H. MARSH.
The papers moved for by the Honourable Member are herewith laid on the table, together with the following explanatory remarks.
The Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce suggested. on 8th July last, that advantage should be taken of the presence in this Colony of the Inspector-General of the Imperial Chinese Maritime Customs to ascertain whether he was willing to enter into negociations with this Government "on as good if not better basis than his former proposal."
The Officer Administering the Government has accordingly had some corres- pondence with the Inspector-General which has necessarily been of an informal character, as all official communications between this Government and that of China must be made through Her Majesty's Minister at Peking, through whom previous correspondence on this subject has passed.
The result of these communications is that the cost of building a Lighthouse on Gap Rock is now estimated by the Inspector-General at $90,000. In 1873 a proposal was made by the Inspector-General to build a Lighthouse for $45,000, if this Colony would pay the whole cost.
The Inspector-General has now made 3 proposals :-
Firstly that this Government should contribute the whole cost, in which
case the light would be exhibited in 1888.
Secondly--that this Government should contribute two thirds of the cost,
in which case the light would not be ready till 1889.
Thirdly-that this Government should contribute only one third, in which
case the light would not be ready till 1890.
The Chinese Government would undertake the maintenance of the Light, if this Government would keep up communication with the Lighthouse for the
purpose of supplying stores, &c.
There are no funds available at the present moment to apply to the construc- tion of this Lighthouse, as the Colony is engaged already in several works of great magnitude. The utility of a Lighthouse at Gap Rock has been generally recog- nised for some years past, and as soon as the Finances of the Colony will admit of any money being applied to that purpose, the project will be taken into serious consideration by the Government.
In the meantime the Officer Administering the Government has undertaken to obtain a report shewing which of the Islands in the vicinity of the Gap Rock is best suited for the construction of a Lighthouse, and is easiest of access. This information, which will be transmitted through Her Majesty's Minister at Peking to the Chinese Government, will probably lead to some considerable modification of the estimate of cost which appears to be very high, particularly when compared. with the previous estimate made in 1873.
Government House, Hongkong, 14th September, 1886.
:
•
*
•
170
No. 113.
SIR,
Acting Harbour Master to Acting Colonial Secretary.
HARBOUR DEPARTMENT, HONGKONG, 9th March, 1886.
I have the honour to report, for the information of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, that I have received a letter from Captain MACLEAR, R.N. of H.M.S. Flying Fish (copy enclosed) directing my attention to the want of an outside Lighthouse to the Port. In reply, I have told Captain MACLEAR that I shall bring the matter to the notice of the Government.
The great benefit to be derived from such a light, as is referred to by Captain MACLEAR, to vessels bound to Hongkong, is manifest, and this was fully recognized in the original scheme for lighting the approaches to the Port.
It appears, however, from former Correspondence that a difficulty arose with the Chinese Authorities as to the cession-by leasing or otherwise-of those places in the neighbourhood of the Colony, which had been suggested as the most suitable sites for Lighthouses,--amongst which was the Gap Rock,-and the result was that no outside light was established.
The Chinese Customs have done much towards lighting the Coast North of Hongkong, but Breaker Point is the most Southern light at present.
Mr. HENDERSON, Chief Engineer of the Chinese Lighthouse Department in his report dated 20th June, 1872, (C.S.O. 1860) estimated the cost of establishing a Light (First Order-revolving) on Gap Rock at £10,000.
The increase in the amount of tonnage entering the port appears a good reason for re-opening this question. A plan by which the Colony should find the money, and the Chinese Government should build and maintain the Lighthouse, though proposed, does not seem ever to have been matured, yet, in view of the difficulty as to territory, and seeing that the other Coast lights are satisfactorily maintained by the Chinese Government, this plan would seem to be worthy of present attention.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
R. MURRAY RUMSEY, Rt. Com. R.N.,
Acting Harbour Master, &c.
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
&C.,
&c.
(Copy.)
Captain Maclear to Acting Harbour Master.
H. M. S. Flying Fish, HONGKONG, 5th March, 1886.
DEAR CAPTAIN RUMSEY,
Before leaving Hongkong again I wish to bring before you the great want of an outside Lighthouse to the port, in order that you may move the Chamber of Commerce to action in the matter.
The want of an outside Lighthouse is severely felt by those who are unable to make the land before dark, and have therefore to lay off for the night with loss of twelve hours' time at least, or have to proceed in the dark at risk of running ashore.
:
171
The Light on Cape D'Aguilar does fairly well for vessels from the North, but is no use at all to vessels from the South, and I suggest a Light on Gap Rock as most suitable, though possibly on the examination of the localities might find a better site. The principal sufferers by the present want are the mail steamers and other steamers from Singapore. On former discussions on this subject, it has been urged that the Chinese Government will not grant a site, carrying with it territorial jurisdiction; but surely a lease of a site not carrying jurisdiction could be ob- tained, or again the Colony might provide the funds and hand the lighthouse over to the Chinese Authorities, who maintain so well the Coast lights. The want is pressing and it will be a long time before the Chinese lighthouse board will erect one on their own account; as they have so many wants to supply, and easy means can be found to meet the lighthouse board. It must be remembered that the cost of every steamer's delay and of the insurance falls indirectly or directly on the Colony, and that the loss of one vessel of any size pressing on at night without a light to guide her, would be more than equivalent to the expense of building the Lighthouse.
Believe me, &c.,
Signed),
J. P. MACLEAR,
(True Copy).
R. MURRAY RUMSEY, Rt. Com. R.N.,
Acting Harbour Master, &c.
Minute by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government.
4th April, 1886.
It is impossible to take this into consideration at the present time as there are no funds available and other works are much more urgently required.
(Signed), W. H. MARSH.
305
No. 20
87.
No. 369.
28th September, 1886. C.S.O. 1626 of 1886.
HONGKONG.
CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING A PROPOSED LIGHT-HOUSE
ON GAP ROCK.
(In Continuation of No. 39 of 1886.)
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 25th March, 1887.
The Officer Administering the Government to the Secretary of State for the Colonies.
SIR,
GOVERNMENT HOUSE, HONGKONG, 25th November, 1886.
I have the honour to forward, for your consideration, copy of a letter from the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce in which I am requested to represent to you the urgent necessity for the erection of a Light-house for the Southern approach to Hongkong, and to submit a proposal recently made by Sir ROBERT HART, the Inspector-General of the Chinese Imperial Customs on behalf of the Chinese Go- vernment to construct this Light-house, if the Colony will guarantee the cost not to exceed $90,000. The Chinese Government will bear the cost of maintenance of this Light, if the Colony will provide the means of occasional communication in order to supply stores, water, &c.
2. The Chamber of Commerce state that the majority of the representative of the Ocean Steam-ship Companies and of privately owned steamers and sailing vessels, arriving from the South, are willing to acquiesce in the payment of one cent per ton extra Light Dues for the term of three years or longer if necessary, as a contribution to the cost of the proposed Light-house. It is estimated that these extra dues would realize fully fifteen thousand dollars per annum, and the Chamber ask that an equivalent sum should be taken out of the existing Light Dues which realize about $25,000 per annum, whereof about $9,000 are applied to the upkeep of the Light-houses.
3. Before forwarding this letter I thought it desirable to visit the different rocks and islands to the South of the Colony accompanied by Officers competent to express an opinion as to the best situation for this Light. Commodore MORANT the Senior Naval Officer in the Port having kindly placed H. M. S. Heroine at my disposal, the different places were visited by me on 27th September last, accompanied by the Commodore, by the Surveyor General, and by the Harbour Master and the Assistant Harbour Master. It will be seen from the annexed reports of these Officers that the Gap Rock, about thirty miles to the South of Hongkong, is con- H. Master 4th Oct. 1886, sidered to be the best situation for a Light-house, and this opinion coincides with
those that have been expressed on several previous occasions.
Enclosure 2.
Com. 30th September. C.S.O. 2258 of 1886. Enclosure 3.
́C.S.O. 2258 of 1886.
Enclosure 4.
S. G. 20th Nov.. 1886.
C.S.O. 2704 of 1886.
Governor to Secretary of
State No. 267 of 13th
April, 1867.
State No. 77 of 1st April, 1873.
4. As the question of a Light-house and of one on the Gap Rock, in particular, is not a new one I beg to refer to the previous correspondence quoted in the Governor to Secretary of margin. I submit also, for your information, a Minute which I laid before Council on the 17th September last in reply to a question put by the Honourable A. P. MACEWEN to the following effect: "To call for correspondence between Captain "MCLEAR of H.M.S. Flying Fish and the Government, with the Minutes thereon, "respecting a Light-house on Gap Rock or its vicinity, and to move a resolution "on the subject.
S. of S. Desp. No. 42 of
15th April, 1873.
S. of S. Desp. No. 96 of 11th July, 1873.
S. of S. Desp. No. 22 of
20th March, 1880. Gov. Desp. No. 132 of 15th July, 1882.
Enclosure 5. *
C.S.O. 553 of 14th Sept., 1886.
11
5. The financial position of the Colony as I have had the honour to report on several occasions renders it necessary to exercise strict economy although the Revenue is steadily increasing. Last year it yielded $1,251,890, the highest hitherto received, if the exceptionally large amount of duty received on Opium in
The Right Honourable
THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR THE COLONIES,
London.
*Sessional Paper No. 39 of 1886,
306
1883 is left out of consideration. This year the revenue will probably exceed $1,300,000, and should the arrangement recently made by the Commissioners appointed under the Chefoo Convention be approved, the increase in future years will be very considerable. On the other hand, however, there are many public works urgently required which have been deferred for want of funds. The Taitam Water-Works, Sanitary Works, and the Military Defences will exhaust. the reserve of previous years and also the Loan of £200,000. A new Gaol is urgently wanted the cost of which will be $400,000, and the prosecution of the Sanitary Works will probably absorb about $100,000 a year for the next two years. There will be full employment therefore for any surplus revenue during some years to come.
6. The erection of a Light-house on the Gap Rock is at the same time a question of considerably greater importance at the present day than when it was originally mooted, owing to the extraordinary development of the shipping trade of the Colony during the last few years; and as the representatives of the interests which will derive the principal benefit from the construction of the Light-house offer to bear one half of the cost, I recommend the proposal of the Chamber of Commerce for favourable consideration.
7. It does not seem to have been ever denied that the construction of a Light on a rock, thirty miles from Hongkong, belonging to the Chinese Empire is, properly speaking, a work that should be undertaken by Chinese, but there are so many Lights which the Government of that Country proposes to erect when it has the necessary funds that I fear a considerable time will elapse if the Colony waits for the construction by it of one on the Gap Rock.
8. I have forwarded copies of the several reports enclosed in this Despatch to Sir JOHN WALSHAM for the information of the Chinese Government, and I have suggested that he should endeavour to obtain a more formal proposal from that Government for the erection of the Light-house.
I have, &c.,
$
W. H. MARSH.
Enclosure 1.
Chairman Chamber of Commerce to Acting Colonial Secretary.
[C.S.O. 1988].
ذ
SIR,
HONGKONG GENERAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. HONGKONG, 28th September, 1886.
With reference to this Chamber's letter of the 8th July, on the subject of a Light-house on the Gap Rock, I have the honour to inform you that the following resolution referring to this matter, was unanimously passed at a special meeting of the Committee held to day:-
Resolved:-"That in view of the imperative necessity which exists for a Light-house to be placed on, or in the neighbourhood of the Gap Rock at the Southern approach to this Port, His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, be requested to make a direct application to the Secretary of State for the Colonies for a special grant from the Light Dues levied in the Colony at present, sufficient to cover the cost of erection."
Agreeably to the spirit of this resolution, I now beg, on behalf of the Committee of this Chamber, to request that His Excellency the Administrator will be pleased to give effect to the above expressed opinion by bringing this important matter to the notice of the Secretary of State for the Colonies, coupled with such recommendation as His Excellency may consider the urgency of the case demands.
Some years since, when this subject was submitted for the consideration of the Government, the Committee are informed that the reasons then assigned for leaving the matter in abeyance were, that the site in question was not within the jurisdiction of the English Government, and that no funds were available for the building and maintenance of the proposed Light-house.
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307
In the opinion of the Committee, these objections are not valid at the present day, that so far as the question of erecting a Light-house on Chinese territory is concerned, and its maintenance, all material obstacles have been removed by the recent offer of Sir ROBERT HART, who, on behalf of the Chinese Government, has expressed himself disposed to undertake the erection and defray the expense of keeping up a Light, provided that the Government can arrange to meet the cost of its construction.
With regard to the means to meet the cost, which is estimated by Sir ROBERT HART, at ninety thousand dollars, I am desired by the Committee to state. that, the majority of the representatives of the Ocean Steam-ship Companies, and of privately owned steamers and sailing vessels arriving from the South, are disposed to acquiesce in the payment of one cent per ton Extra Light Dues, for the term of three years, or longer if necessary, as a contribution to the cost of the proposed Light-house.
It is estimated that these Tolls would realize fully fifteen thousand dollars per annum, which sum, added to the surplus revenue derived from the Light Dues now levied, would prove sufficient to guarantee the completion of the work, it being understood that the work shall be commenced immediately and that on final payment of the cost these extra dues would be removed.
The foregoing facts have an important bearing or the favourable solution of this matter, and the Committee, in representation of the annually increasing mercantile and steam-shipping interests of the Colony, beg that His Excellency will urge upon the Colonial Office the great importance of this question to navigation.
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Acting Colonial Secretary.
I have, &c.,
P. RYRIE.
Chairman
Enclosure 2.
[C.S.O. 4258].
1886
Commodore Morant to the Officer Administering the Government.
SIR,
Victor Emanuel, AT HONGKONG,
30th September, 1886.
In reply to your Excellency's letter dated 28th instant, No. 172 G, requesting my opinion on the different Rocks and Islands visited on the 27th instant in H. M. S. Heroine, with a view of determining the position where a Light-house should be placed for vessels approaching Hongkong from the South, I have the honour to report that I consider the Gap Rock the best position for the Light-house, it being the S.W. extreme of the Lema and Kypong Islands, and is, in itself, bold with a channel on each side, and it has the further advantage of being, when once rounded, a good guide for ships inside these islands until Čape D'Aguilar light is sighted.
Reef Island perhaps is more accessible for attendance on the Light-house, but it is, in my opinion, objectionable in so far that it has outlying reefs off its Southern extremity, and the Gap Rock lying nearly two miles to the Westward.
It has to be borne in mind that ships making for this passage are coming from South and South-west, and therefore, in thick weather, might in looking for the light on Reef Island find themselves on the top of the Gap Rock.
With regard to a light being placed on Taitami Island, there is the objection of the Cambridge Rock being on one side of the channel and the Mosquito Rock being outside the point; therefore if this Island was lighted it might lead to ships going on these sunken dangers through misjudging their distance from the light in thick weather.
I have, &c.,
J. DIGBY MORANT,
Commodore.
308
[In C.S.O. 2358].
Enclosure 3.
Harbour Master to Acting Colonial Secretary..
HONOURABLE COLONIAL SECRETARY.
HONGKONG, 4th October, 1886.
The following report has reference to a light to be seen at a distance of 20 miles, and therefore the height of the lantern should not be less than 200 feet from High water level :-
1st. I am of opinion that the Gap Rock (90 feet high), being the outer danger of the Kypong Island Group, is the most proper site for an out- side light for the approaches to Hongkong from the Southward. But as the rock is small, aud at no times could a boat land there, difficulties of communication would arise, making the erection and upkeep of a Light- house on this spot very costly.
A light on the Gap Rock would probably be obscured between the bearings N.E. and E. 6 N. 1 N. from the rock.
2nd. The next best place for a site is on an Island N. 65° E. nearly one mile from the Gap Rock. The landing here is difficult, but the Island being larger the difficulties would probably not be so great as at Gap Rock, and the Island being higher the cost of building a Light-house should not be
so much.
A light on this Island would be little inferior in point of position to one on the Gap Rock, as the Channel between these Islands is deep and clear of any danger (see foot note). In fact a ship could, so far as draught of water is concerned, lie alongside either island.
A light on this Island would probably be obscured between N.E. and East from the Light-house.
3rd. The next island offering itself as a site is Reef Island, and seems to be the only one where a landing can be effected at all seasons. It is about 90 feet high, but has a dangerous reef lying near to its Southern end.
A light on this Island would probably be obscured from N.E. N. to N.W. W. from the light, but as the proposed light is intended more for the benefit of ships coming from the South this would not matter. The light however might be raised to show over adjacent Islands.
Reef Island lies East 1 miles from Gap Rock with, excepting the before mentioned reef, a clear Channel between them (see foot note).
A light on Gap Rock or its close neighbourhood would complete the Light-house requirements of this Colony. The cost could be raised by loan and a few years with a slight increase to the present dues would soon pay it off.
Note.-Imray's Chart shows a rock with 22 feet on it in this Channel, but it does not appear on any Admiralty Chart.
H. G. THOMSETT, R.N.,
[C.S.O. 2794].
1880
Enclosure 4.
Harbour Master.
Surveyor General to Acting Colonial Secretary.
No. 184.
SIR,
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, 20th November, 1886.
Adverting to the proposition of an additional great sea-light for ships ap- proaching Hongkong from the South or South-West, I am of opinion, after a personal cruise round the islets and rocks to the South of the Island, that the Gap Rock will be found the best site for a Light-house as regards the requirements of navigators, although it is undoubtedly an extremely unfavourable site from a builder's point of view.
The reason I would give the preference to the Gap Rock is that it is among the outermost or first points of land visible to ships approaching the coast from
."
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309
the China Sea, and that a light placed upon it may be retained in view for 20 miles after a ship has left it behind or until it is able to pick up the actual Green Island light, an advantage that would be lost, if the light were placed elsewhere as the other islets are so situated as to cause them to shut each other out of view from the direction of Hongkong.
The highest point of the Gap Rock is only about 90 feet above mean sea level. In order therefore to enable the proposed light to be seen at a distance of 20 geographical miles, a tower about 110 feet high will be requisite.
The configuration of the rock is very steep, almost percipitous nearly on all sides, but there are one or two places that shelve down to the water's edge, which would make a landing feasible on a very calm day. As far as I have been able to judge access can be made effectual at all times in fair weather by means of a derrick-crane with a fifty-foot jib, a lodgement for the foundation of which can be made by cutting out a place in the solid rock above the reach of ordinary storm
waves.
There are many days during the months of March and April when the sea is as smooth as a sheet of glass, and this exceptional season might be availed of to effect a first landing of men, materials, and stores.
I believe it is a principle of coast lighting to select that position for a Light- house which best meets maritime requirements and to subordinate to this all other considerations in respect of increased cost, and trouble in the subsequent mainte- If therefore following this principle the Colonial Government wish to erect a light on the Gap Rock, I see no engineering difficulty which may not be over- come, if it becomes necessary to give effect to that wish.
nance.
The Honourable FREDERICK STEWART, LL.D.,
I have, &c.,
J. M. PRICE,
Surveyor General.
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
Secretary of State for the Colonies to the Officer Administering the Government.
HONGKONG.
No. 21.
SIR,
DOWNING STREET,
12th February, 1887.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatch, No. 369, of the 25th of November last, with enclosures, relative to the proposed construction by the Colony of a Light-house on the Gap Rock, to be maintained by the Chinese Government.
2. I consider that, as there are so many Public Works at present in course of construction at Hongkong, and as this year's Estimates have been already apportioned, it would not be advisable that the work should be carried out at present.
3. I would however, suggest that the subject should be considered in con- nexion with the Estimates for 1888, when, if the Chinese Government, and the Chamber of Commerce still consent to the terms now proposed, and provided that no loan is raised for any sum whatever on this account, I shall not withhold my sanction.
4. I do not however, clearly understand why the proposal of Sir R. HART, that the Light-house should be constructed by the end of the year 1890, and that the Colonial Government should not bear more than one third of the cost, has not been entertained.
?
5. I enclose, for your information, a copy of a letter from the Board of Trade to whom a copy of year Despatch and draft of this reply was communicated.
I have, &c.,
Į
The Officer Administering the Government of
HONGKONG.
H. T. HOLLAND.
299
No. 17
87.
HONGKONG.
CORRESPONDENCE IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED LOAN.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 25th March, 1887.
Crown Agents for the Colonies to Colonial Secretary.
DOWNING STREET,
SIR,
LONDON, 14th February, 1887.
Referring to your letter of the 23rd September last, No. 1549, I have the honour to state, for the information of the Governor of Hongkong, that we have abstained from issuing 4 per cent. Debentures under the provisions of Ordinance No. 11 of 1886, as we have been able to obtain, temporarily, funds as required on more advantageous terms:-Our advances now amount to £138,000,--they are as follows:-
14th January, 1886, 20th
9th March,
....
.£10,000
13,000
"2
5,000
. 30th
>>
""
6,000
20th April,
""
20,000
14th May,
"9
.........
2,000
30th June,
""
5,000
30th July,
4,000
10th September,,,
13th November,
21st December,
21
10th January, 1887,
30,000
8,000
5,000
25,000
10th February,
5,000
£138,000
For these advances the Colony has paid at Bank rate from day to day, which has varied, since the 14th January last, from a minimum of 2 to a maximum of 5 per cent.; the average rate which it has cost the Colony is 32 per cent.
Should our expenditure during the current year amount as usual to about £80,000, the proceeds of the proposed loan of £200,000 after providing for the repayment of the temporary advances of £138,000, will not be quite sufficient to provide us with funds to the end of the year.
In the report dated 16th September last, on the Estimates for 1887, which accompanied your letter, par. 9, it is stated that the $55,000 for interest is made up in the following manner, namely: interest on $400,000 (already advanced by the Crown Agents) at 7 per cent. per annum $28,000. Interest on $600,000, for 6 months, at 7 per cent. per annum $21,000, with $6,000 added for Contin- gencies.
The Hon. The COLONIAL SECRETARY,
&C.,
&c.,
&C.,
Hongkong.
د
300
On reference to our accounts you will find that the Colony has never been charged anything like 7 per cent.; in fact when that report was written 3 per cent. was the highest rate, except during eleven days in January, 1886, when it was 4 per cent.
The Colony, moreover, has never paid more than 5 per cent., and that only from the 16th December last to the 3rd instant.
I would add that if the report has been laid before the Council, it would appear but just to us that some explanation should be given, as we should regret that it should go forth uncontradicted that the Colony has, through us, been charged 7 per cent. for its loans.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
W. C. SARGEAUNT.
.
The Honourable
399
No. 28 87.
HONGKONG.
GOVERNMENT LOAN.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 23rd May, 1887.
SIR,
The Crown Agents for the Colonies to the Acting Colonial Secretary.
DOWNING STREET LONDON, 15th April, 1887.
With reference to my letter of the 1st instant confirming a telegram relative to the Hongkong Government Loan of £200,000, despatched to you on that date, I have the honour to state for the information of the Governor, that in response to the invitation contained in our advertisement, of which a copy is enclosed, tenders were opened on the 1st instant. The tenders amounted to £737,400, and the prices tendered ranged from the minimum £98 to £100.17.6 per cent., the average price realized being £100.14.9 per cent.
*A Schedule of the tenders is enclosed.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY,
&c.,
&c., Hongkong.
&c.,
W. C. SARGEAUNT.
Enclosure.
HONGKONG GOVERNMENT 4 PER CENT. LOAN.
£200,000.
Authorised by Ordinance No. 11 of 1886.
THE Crown Agents for the Colonies, on behalf of the Government of Hongkong, hereby invite Tenders for the above Loan of £200,000.
The Loan is secured on the General Revenues and Assets of the Government of Hongkong, and will be raised on Debentures representing £100 each, bearing interest from the 1st March, 1887, at the rate of 4 per cent. per annum, payable half-yearly on the 1st March and 1st September in each year. Interest and Principal will be payable at the Offices of the Crown Agents for the Colonies, Downing Street, London.
In order to provide for the repayment of the Principal at the expiration of 20 years-if not previously redeemed-a compound Sinking Fund will be formed by an investment half-yearly of three thousand five hundred and thirty-six pounds, commencing on the 1st September next.
* Not printed.
400
The Government of Hongkong reserves to itself the right to pay off the Principal, or a part thereof, any time after the expiration of five years from the date of the Debentures, upon giving, by advertisement in "The Times" newspaper. six months' notice, dating from a day when a dividend is due, of its intention to do so; from and after the day so appointed for repayment of any Debenture all claim to interest on the Principal secured thereby shall cease. The Debentures if so redeemed will be taken in rotation, commencing with No. 1, or the lowest number outstanding.
The proceeds of the Loan will be expended in the completion of the fortifications required for the defence of Hongkong as a Coaling Station, of the Water Works, and other Public Works upon the construction of which during the last four years the accumulated surplus balances of previous years have been expended.
Tenders will be received at the Offices of the Crown Agents for the Colonies in Downing Street until One p.m. on Friday, the 1st April, and will be opened in the presence of such applicants as may attend.
The Debentures will be allotted to the highest bidders, provided the rates offered are not below £98 in money for every £100 in Debentures, and in the event of the receipt of tenders for a larger amount of Debentures than that proposed to be issued at or above the minimum price, the Tenders at the lowest price accepted will be subjected to a pro ratâ diminution.
If no allotment be made, the amount forwarded with the Tender will be returned in full, and if a portion only of the amount applied for be allotted, the surplus will be appropriated towards the payment on Allotment.
Tenders at a fraction of a shilling other than sixpence, will not be preferentially accepted.
The purchase money will be required as follows:
£5 per cent. on application, and so much on the 7th April, 1887, as will
leave £75 per cent. payable as under :
£35 per cent. on the 5th May, 1887, and
£40 per cent. on the 6th June, 1887.
The first payment must accompany the Tender, and the subsequent payments are to be made at the Bank of England not later than the dates above named.
Payments may be made in full on the 7th April, or on any subsequent date prior to the 6th June, 1887, under discount at the rate of 3 per cent. per annum.
After payment by the Allottees of the instalment due on Allotment, they will receive at the Chief Cashier's Office, Bank of England, in exchange for the Banker's receipts, Scrip Certificates representing the Debentures to which they will become entitled, which will be ready for delivery on and after the 6th June, 1887.
Forms of Tender, and a Statistical Statement relative to the Revenue and Expenditure and Shipping of the Colony from 1877 to 1886 inclusive, may be obtained by applying at the Offices of the Crown Agents for the Colonies, Downing Street, S.W., and No. 1, Tokenhouse Buildings, E.C.; at those of Messrs. MULLENS, MARSHALL, and Co., 4, Lombard Street, E.C.; and those of Messrs. J. and A. SCRIMGEOUR, 18, Old Broad Street, E.C.; and a copy of the Ordinance may be seen on application at the Offices of the Crown Agents in Downing Street.
OFFICES OF THE CROWN AGENTS FOR THE COLONIES,
DOWNING STREET, LONDON,
26th March, 1887.
}
HONGKONG.
THE COLONIAL SURGEON'S REPORT FOR 1886.
413
No. 31
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 8th July, 1887.
87
GOVERNMENT CIVIL HOSPITAL,
HONGKONG, 17th May, 1887.
SIR,I have the honour to forward my Annual Report for the year 1886, together with the Tables shewing the work done in the different Establishments in the Medical Department under my supervision. I also forward the reports from the Superintendent of the Government Civil Hospital, the Superintendent of the Lock Hospital, and the Government Analyst.
POLICE.
The admissions from the Police Force to Hospital show a considerable increase and have been the largest number admitted in the past six years. The increase has been principally in the Chinese portions of the Force as shown in the following table:-
Europeans.
Indians.
Chinese.
Admissions to Hospital, 1881..
88
212
198
Do.,
1882.
92
230
227
Do..
1883,
.113
246
239
Do.,
1884,
87
224
175
Do.,
1885,...
...124
208
163
Do.,
1886,.
...138
243
221
It will be observed from this that the increase of admissions was among the Europeans 14, Indians 35, and Chinese 58.
The deaths were, Europeans 8, Indians 2, and Chinese 4.
The Europeans suffer most as is seen on the rate of sickness and mortality in Table II, the Indians next in rate of sickness are the lowest, in rate of mortality the Chinese lowest in rate of sickness are next to the Europeans in rate of mortality.
the
Table I shows the admissions of each section of the Force to Hospital in the different months of year, the largest numbers being as usual during the summer months.
Table II gives the average strength of the different sections of the Force, the deaths, rate of sickness and mortality to strength.
Table III shows the admissions to Hospital from the different stations and districts of the several sections of the Force during each month of the year.
All over the Island and the Kowloon peninsula the sickness has increased in every station, and 'was principally caused by Fever and Bowel complaints.
The admissions to Hospital and deaths from the Police Force for the past ten years are given below, this year has been the highest in number of sick, and the highest in the number of deaths:-
Admissions.
..418
Deaths.
1877, 1878,
6
.....566
6
1879.
....566
8
1880,..
588
13
1881.
498
10
•
1882,
.549
8
1883.
..599
10
1884.
....486
7
1885,
.....495
9
1886.
...602
14
4
".
:
414
:
TROOPS.
There is a very large increase in the amount of sickness among the Troops, chiefly caused as in the case of the Police from Fevers and Bowel complaints of a malarial type; though the troops have suffered much more severely in proportion to their strength. The death rate has been comparatively small when the amount of sickness is considered.
Table IV gives the average strength of the Force, the admissions to Hospital and deaths with the percentage of sickness and mortality.
I give the number of admissions to Hospital and deaths for the past ten years below:-
Admissions.
1877, 1878,..
973
Deaths.
9
944
10
1879,
...1,035
8
1880,
1,075
13
1881.
.1,116
4
妻
1882,
.1,019
9
1883,
.1,105
10
1884,...
1,097
12
1885,
..1,190
24
1,607
9
1886...
The sickness as will be seen exceeds that of any of the previous years.
There were no cases of Cholera last year.
GOVERNMENT CIVIL HOSPITAL.
This Establishment remains as described in my last Annual Report, but the building of the new wards is very far advanced, and will in a month or so be completed.
The admissions to Hospital this year have exceeded all former years, chiefly caused by diseases of a malarial type.
Seventy cases were admitted under observations only, and discharged.
There were 415 cases of Fevers of various types admitted, of these only two cases died shewing that the type of Fever was not very severe.
Fifty cases of Dysentery were admitted, of whom four died.
Fifty eight cases of Diarrhoea were admitted, of whom one died.
The following table shews the number and position of those brought to Hospital for the last six
years:-
1881.
1882.
1883.
1884.
1885.
1886.
Police,
....498
549
599
486
495
.602
Board of Trade, .........117
116
110
60
100
132
Private paying Patients, 193
268
260
259
283
381
Government Servants.... 67
88
105
96
124
144
Police Cases,
..139
207
227 ·
231
238
142
Destitutes,
.222
230
201
222
270
222
1,236
1,458
1,502
1,354
1,510
1,623
years.
The increase is chiefly noticeable among the admissions of Police and Private Paying Patients. There is a considerable and satisfactory diminution in the admissions of Police cases. Table V shews the character of the diseases admitted to Hospital.
Table VI shews the rate of mortality of the different classes admitted to Hospital for the past ten
Table VII shews the admissions and deaths of the different classes in each month of the The number of admissions was as usual largest in the summer months.
year,
:
The numbers of admissions and deaths in. Hospital for the past ten years are as follows:-
Admissions.
Deaths.
1877,..
950
49
1878,....
.1,289
50
1879.
.1,071
55
1880,..
.1,055
44
1881,...
.1.236
49
1882.
.1,458
68
1883..
..1,502
70
1884..
.1,354
50
1885,
.1,510
76
1886,.
1,623
79
415
The percentage of deaths to admissions was 4.86 a trifle above the average of the last ten years. Sixteen of the deaths were from injuries received.
SMALL POX HOSPITAL.
Eleven cases were admitted into the Small Pox Hospital, of whom one female died, most of the cases were of a mild type.
Table VIIa shews the number and nationality of the patients.
This Hospital is used in the summer months for Cholera cases, none occurred this year.
PUBLIC MORTUARY.
Table VIII shews number of dead bodies brought in for examination during the different months of the year.
The total this year was 134, of these 43 were children.
The recommendations I made last year that there should be a resident Post Mortem attendant at the Mortuary has been sanctioned.
VICTORIA Gaol.
The following figures give the number of admissions and the daily average number of prisoners for the past ten years. There is a very considerable increase in both cases this year:-
Total No. admitted.
Daily average No.
to Gaol.
of Prisoners.
1877,
..3,964
395.22
1878,
.3,803
519.22
1879,
..3,665
576.13
1880,
..3,530
575.25
1881.
..4,150
666.00
1882,
..3,498
622.00
1883,
..3,486
542.15
1884.
.4,023
552.00
1885,
..3,610
530.00
1886,
..4,600
674.00
The above figures show an increase of nearly one thousand prisoners as compared with last year, with an increase in the daily average of 144.
Table IX shews the number of admissions to the Gaol Hospital, the diseases, and number of deaths. There were thirteen deaths this year, two from Apoplexy, two from Heart disease, two from Dysentery, two from inflammation of the Bowels, two from general Debility, two from Suicide, and one constitutional Syphilis of some years standing.
Table X shews the number of cases treated in their cells, and the diseases treated.
Table XI shews the rate of sickness and mortality in the Gaol. The sickness is considerably less than last year, but there is a considerable increase in the deaths, yet, the rate of sickness and mortality both to total and average is much less than last year.
Table XIa shews the cases admitted to Hospital on the first medical examination, and the diseases they were suffering from.
Table XIb shews the number of Opium smokers admitted to Gaol, their weight on admission and for four weeks after.
Table XIe shews the number of Opium smokers admitted to Hospital and the diseases they were suffering from..
There were no cases of any particular interest. The dietary of the Gaol has been reduced, so they don't fatten up so much as they used, but they are none the worse for the deprivation of their Opium, although the habit is entirely ignored, and they get no treatment unless they are suffering from some bodily complaint.
1
416
GOVERNMENT LUNATIC ASYLUM.
The number admitted to this Institution was sixteen the same as last year, three of them were females.
Table XId gives the nationality, disease and description of patients, with the number of days detention in the Asylum.
There has been considerable difficulty in sending them away to their native countries, even when they are quite harmless in good health, and requiring very little attention.
TUNG WA HOSPITAL.
The total number of patients treated in this Hospital, which is entirely under the management of the Chinese was 2,048, of these 1,109 died, and 216 of those that died were admitted in a moribund condition.
The number of out-patients treated was 122,292.
The number of patients admitted to the Small Pox wards was fifty-four, of these forty-two died. The cases are mostly of the worst type, unvaccinated, and the majority children.
The number of successful vaccination performed was 2,206.
TEMPORARY LOCK HOSPITAL.
The arrangements as regards this Hospital remain the same as in my previous reports. Table XVa gives the number of admissions for the past 29 years, and the average number of days detention for each year. In 1858, the average number of days detention was 43.8, in 1886 it was 12.2 showing a considerable difference in the type of disease treated.
Table XVe shows the admissions of men to the different Hospitals for venereal disease. The admissions to the Military Hospital show an enormous increase, but a large number of these cases do not belong to Hongkong. The Naval Hospital also shews a considerable increase, but only a few of the cases belong to Hongkong. The Police Hospital shews a steady decrease for the last four years, and the Civil Hospital a very large decrease:
Table XVe 2 shews the amount of constitutional venereal disease admitted to the Naval Hospital, of this number 20, only 2 cases belong to Hongkong.
Table XVe 3 shews the amount of constitutional venereal disease admitted to the Military Hospital, which is 71 cases, of these 40 cases were not contracted in Hongkong.
The Naval Police and Civil Hospital record of constitutional disease contracted in Hongkong is very moderate. The Military are the chief sufferers. How and where they get it is the problem; it certainly cannot come from the registered women unless it is conceded that they can give to others. what they have not got themselves.
HEALTH OF THE COLONY.
Table XVI shews the rate of mortality amongst the European and American residents in Hong- kong for the past ten years.
The number and percentage are the highest that have ever been recorded even in the preceeding year when so many were recorded from Cholera, of which there were no cases in 1886.
I give below the Tables of the death rates for the past fourteen years I have been in the Colony among the Europeans and Chinese, as registered in Hongkong, from diseases which may arise from filth poison.
DEATHS AMONG EUROPEANS (BRITISH AND FOREIGN.)
FEVERS.
VOMITING
YEARS.
DIARRHEA. CHOLERA. AND
TOTAL.
Enteric.
Simple
Typhus. Continued.
PURGING.
1873,
6
2
17
1874,
1
-4
17
1875,
1
18
1-1-00
25
26
24
1876,
1
14
24
1877,
5
8
4
10
27
1878,
15
9
29
1879,
21
14
38
1880,
1
12
1
10
24
1881.
2
17
10
29
1882,
10
13
1
13
37
1883,
1
9
9
19
1884,
7
4
12
23
1885,
7
.11
9
19
46
1886,
5
8
5
18
7.
DEATHS AMONG CHINESE.
417
FEVERS.
YEARS.
Enteric.
Simple Continued.
VOMITING DIARRHOEA. Cholera. AND
PURGING.
TOTAL.
Typhus.
1873,
1874,
125
2222
12
96
16
195
46
231
1875,
31
291
2
288
1876,
94
343
259
1877,
145
370
8
311
1878,
89
481
1879,
116
733
21
1880,
309
373
1881,
438
168
1882,
679
71
1883,
262
571
1884, 1885, 1886,
132
600
No: : Nã
33
701
608
348
38
435
465
3
660
•
2
301
•
105
755
561
9
772
10
326
:
319
402
..
612
696
834
1,304
1,478
1,030
1,079
1,215
1,496
1,035
176
1,604
19
1,136
The figures in the European Table total up the smallest number in the past fourteen years. In the Chinese Table only 9 cases are recorded of a Typhoid or Enteric type, whereas the largest number of deaths from simple continued fever is recorded for the past fourteen years.
The Diarrhoea cases on both Tables are moderate.
The Chinese Table is a curiosity in registration. The deaths from Enteric or Typhoid Fever vary in different years, 9 cases this year the lowest of the fourteen, and 679 in 1881, the highest number recorded; Simple Continued Fever 46 cases in 1874 the lowest number, and 772 this year the highest number recorded.
Diarrhoea 195 in 1873 the lowest number, and 701 in 1878 the highest number recorded.
I was absent on leave during the summer of 1886 for five months, the only leave I have had for 11 years. During my absence Dr. GREGORY P. JORDAN acted for me as Colonial Surgeon. He also acted as Health Officer for two months in the Spring, while Dr. ADAMS was absent on leave, and in both cases carried on the work to the satisfaction of the Government.
Dr. MARQUES suffered for some months from a serious attack of Inflammation of the Liver, and during his illness Dr. JORDAN and the Superintendent of the Government Civil Hospital had to divide his work, and after my return I and Dr. THOMPSON, A.M.D. did the work for him.
In consequence of the Report and Tables of the Government Civil Hospital being sent in so late, I have been compelled to confine my report entirely to statistics.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
Your obedient Servant,
PH. B. C. AYRES,
Colonial Surgeon.
418
POLICE.
I-TABLE shewing the ADMISSIONS into and DEATHS in the GOVERNMENT CIVIL HOSPITAL
during each Month of the Year 1886.
EUROPEANS.
INDIANS.
MONTHS.
8
Remaining on the 1st Jan.,
1886,.
January, February, March,
•
Admissions. Deaths. Admissions. Deaths. Admissions.
977
4970
CHINESE.
TOTAL. TOTAL. Admissions. Deaths.
Deaths.
15
25
•
1
9
23
1
Ι
17
1
9
34
2
April,
7
20
11
38
May,.
10
17
16
1
43
1
June,
11
1
32
30
73
1
July,.
16
20
26
62
August,
10
September,
17
October,
11
November,
16
:::
23
26
1
59
4
21
16
54
1
}
41
21
79
14
31
61
December,
9
1
18.
9
36
1
•
Total,......
138
7.
243
2
221
2
602
11
}
C. J. WHARRY, M.D., Superintendent.
II.-TABLE shewing the RATE of SICKNESS and MORTALITY in the POLICE FORCE during the Year 1886.
AVERAGE STRENGTH.
TOTAL SICKNESS.
TOTAL DEATHS.
RATE OF SICKNESS.
RATE OF MORTALITY.
European. Indian. Chinese.
Total, European. Indian.
Chinese. European. Indian. Chinese.
European. Indian.
Chinese.
European. Indian. Chinese.
109
223 316 618 138 243 221
8
1.26
4 126.60) 108.96 69.93 7.34 0.89
III.—POLICE RETURN of ADMISSIONS to HOSPITAL from each District during the Year 1886.
GOVERNMENT
CENTRAL
No. 5
8
"
HOUSE No. 2
No. 1 STONE CUTTERS'
9
3
95
ISLAND.
No. 6
WATER POLICE STATIONS, TSIMSHATSUI,
WHITFIELD.
SHAUKIWAN. POKFULAM.
ABERDEEN.
STANLEY.
No. 7
YAUMATI,
HUNG HOM.
5
16
5 12
4 22
13
13
11
23
5 10
Remaining on
- 1st Jan., 1886,
January, February, March, April, May,
June, .... July,...
August,
September,
October,
•November,
December,. 2 10
European,
12
Indian.
Chinese.
European.
S M B S tis :: :
Indian.
Chinese.
European.
Indian.
Chinese.
European.
Indian.
:::
Chinese.
en crow so con tower European.
:::
Indian.
Chinese.
European.
Indian.
Chinese.
European.
Indian.
Chinese.
European.
Indian.
Chinese.
European.
::: | Indian.
'Chinese.
European.
Indian.
Chinese.
European.
Indian.
Chinese.
TOTAL.
15
25
23
34
1
38
10
20
16
10
17
15
43
73
62
1
59
54
6
1 79
61
1
36
Total,
58 157 45 7 18
2
3 1 1 36 2 120 5 15
2
4
12
10
9
10
5 3 20 17
5 14
6 602
C. J. WHARRY, M.D., Superintendent.
IV.—TABLE shewing the RATE of SICKNESS and MORTALITY of the TROOPS serving in HONGKONG
during the Year 1886.
AVERAGE STRENGTH.
ADMISSIONS INTO HOSPITAL.
DEATHS.
AVERAGE DAILY RATE OF SICKNESS.
RATE OF MORTA- LITY PER 1,000 OF THE STRENGTH.
White. Black. Total. White.
Black. Total. White. Black.
Total.
White. Black. White.
Black.
1,132 174 1,306 1,356
251 1,607
1
9
58.61 6.38
7.07 5.75
P. HUNGERFORD, Deputy Surgeon General,
P.M.O. China Station.
V.--TABLE shewing the ADMISSIONS and MORTALITY in the GOVERNMENT CIVIL HOSPITAL during the Year 1886.
ADMISSIONS.
DEATHS.
ADMISSIONS.
DEATHS.
419
DISEASES.
Europeans.
Coloured.
Chinese.
Total.
Mumps,
2
Enteric Fever,
8
1 9
Dysentery,
26 7 · 3
36
Do., Chronic,
11 2
Febricula,
30
27
1 30 87
14 2
Remittent Fever,
106
69 135 310
Intermittent Fever,
4
9
Beri-Beri,
Erysipelas,
3
Lumbago,
Sciatica,
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Europeans.]
...
Coloured.
Chinese.
Total.
DISEASES.
Bronchitis, Chronic,
1
Bronchial Catarrh,
3 Asthma,
Pneumonia, Acute,
9
Brought forward,.
398191 253 842 16 6 4 26
11 1 31
...
Europeans.
Coloured.
Chinese.
Total.
Europeans.
Coloured.
Chinese.
co Total.
4
26
3
3
5
15
1
1
Do., Chronic,..
Emphysema,
1
Pleurisy,
4
Pleurodynia,
*
Harelip.
Syphilis, Primary,
Hard Chancre,.
16
1
Soft Sores;
9
1
1Q
Edema of Face,
Abscess of Autrum,
Gumboil.
2
...
***
18
12
::
Sore-throat,.
Laryngitis,
Secondary,-
Pharyngitis,
4
Iritis,
3
Psoriasis,
3
3
Rupia,
2
1
Periostitis,
3
3
Ulcers of Pharynx,
Do. of Tongue,
Do. of Leg,
Rheumatism, Gumma of Brain,
2
4
1
Gastric Catarrh,..
Dyspepsia,
Haemorrhage from the Bowels,. Enteritis,...
Obstruction of the Bowels,
Hernia, Inquinal,
Tape-worm...
Round-worms,
Diarrhoea,
Do., Chronic,
Constipation,
Colic,
...
...
1
2
10
ཊྛི ༩༤ ༥༦
24
50
8
1
...
15
...
13
...
...
1
...
3
4
...
Facial Paralysis,
1
Lupus of Nose,
1
1
Gonorrhoea,
లు:
Rectal Abscess,
34
9
49
Fistula in Ano,
Gleet,
2
Piles,
2
ลง
...
Privation,
12 12
1
25
1
1 Lacerated Wound of Sphincter
Scurvy,
1
1
Ani-rectum,
Alcoholism,
10
10
Hypertrophy of Liver,
Delirium Tremens,
2
2
Congestion of Liver,
14
6
21
Debility,
15
3
10
28
Hepatitis,
2
Rheumatic Fever,
13
· 1
16
1
Cirrhosis of Liver,.
4
3 2
2
Rheumatism,
10
11
...
Abscess of Liver,
Leprosy,
1
Hydated Cyst of Liver,
Ancemia,
16
7
12
35
Jaundice,
...
Diabetes Mellitus,
1
1
Gallstones,
Tuberculosis,
1
2
1
1 Peritonitis,
1
2
Ganglion of Wrist,
1
Hypertrophy of Spleen,
2
Fibroma of Face,.......
...
Congestion of Kidneys,
Osteoma of Autrum,
...
1
...
Acute Nephritis,
Fibro-cystic Tumour of Neck,
Epithelioma of Lower Lip,
Do. of Penis,......
Do. of Foot,
...
***
1
1
8
4 16
3
1
1
Phthisis,
Homoptysis,
Anasarca,
Ascites,
Softening of the Brain,
Meningitis,
Alcoholic Paralysis,
2
Paralysis of Extremities,
Hemiplegia,
2
General Paralysis,
Apoplexy..
Sun Stroke,
Headache,.
Vertigo,...
Jodyandd
::
Bright's Disease,
Hæmaturia,
Cystitis,
Vesical Calculus, Retention of Urine,
Stricture of Urethra,. Rupture of Urethra,
2 Paraphimosis,
Do., Congenital, Excoriations of Penis,
Warts,
Laceration of Scrotum,
Incised Wound of Scrotum,.
Hydrocele Testis,
Scrofulous Dis. of Testis,
5
...
2
1
7
1
*
1 2
...
...
2
1
...
1
•
2345
...
...
***
***
...
...
+44
...
***
DOL
...
3
Orchitis,
Metritis,
Prolapsus Uteri,........................
Mania,
Dementia,
Conjunctivitis,..
Total Disorganization of Eye
Contusion of Eye-ball,
from Injury,.....
Wound of Cornea with Pro-
lapse of Iris,
1
1
1
1
Leucorrhoea,
Menorrhagia,
:
Splinter of Iron in Cornea,
Opacity of Cornea,
Iritis,....
co
Cataract,
Abscess of Lachrymal Sac,
Hordeolum,
Entropium,
1
1
...
1
Abscess of External Meatus of
1
Ear,
Valve Disease,—
Accumulation of Wax in Ex-
ternal Meatus, .
Pericarditis,
Aortic,
Mitral.
Angina Pectoris,
Aneurism of Aorta,..
Do. of Abdominal Aorta,..
Endarteritis,
1. 2
1
::
1
:
2
1
2
Parturition,
Vertebral Caries,
Necrosis of Lower Jaw,
Do. of Tibia,
Do.
...
...
2
1
...
3
3
1
...
***
►
*
Flat Foot,
of Metatarsal Bones,..
Incised Wound of Knee Joint,..
Synovitis, Knee................
Do., Wrist,
Do., Elbow,
Chronic Abscess of Thigh,
Do. do. of Loin,
Diffuse Cellulitis of Leg,
1
•
1
Do.
do. of Hand,
3
1 1
::
::
Abscess,
1
Ι
Scabies,
1
Eczema,
Acne,
Ulcer,
Bubo,
Boils,
Do.
do. of Arm,
Periosteal Abscess over Tibia,..
Edema of Leg,
1 Rupture of Plantaris Muscle,
Bronchitis, Acute,
1 12
Carried forward,..............
398 191 253 842 16
6
4
26
Burns and Scalds,
CHAEL :~:::~~~2+ :22-*
12
...
1
2
2
12 10
4
4
5
16
...
4
10
14 1
3 4
Carried forward,.............. 590 339 340 1269 27
17
12 56
420
TABLE shewing the ADMISSIONS and MORTALITY, &c.,-(Continued).
ADMISSIONS.
DEATHS.
ADMISSIONS.
DEATHS.
·
DISEASES.
Europeans.
Poisoning, Opium,
Do.,
Do., Arsenic, Do., Datura,
Immersion in Water, Gangrene of Finger,.
Inebrietas,
Moribund,
Observation,
Brought forward,...
590 339 340 1269 27 17 12
56
6
Mercurial,
Coloured.
Chinese.
Total.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Europeans.]
DISEASES.
Total.
Do.
do. of Radius,
Do.
do.
of Radius &)
Ulna,
Do.
do.
of Humerus,
Do.
do.
of Patella,
36
15 19
70
Do.
do.
of Fibula,
Do.
do.
of Tibia,..
Dog-bite,
Contusions,
17
28
Do.
dlo.
of Tibia and
Fibula,
:
Brought forward..
4 Wounds, Punctured of Nose,
Concussion of Brain.....
Fracture Simple of Clavicle,
668 378 518 1564 27 18 25 70
I
2 2
Europeans.
⠀⠀⠀⠀ Coloured.
00:00 19
3
∞0 - 30 - N
Chinese.
Total.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Europeans.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Coloured.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Chinese.
•
Total.
2
Sprain of Wrist,
Do. of Ankle,
Do.
do.
of Femur and
:
:
Ulna,
Do. of Knee,
Wounds, Contused,
18
28.
Do.
do.
of Femur,
Do., do.,
of Scalp,..
19
26
Do.
do.
of Ribs,
Do., Incised,
28
34.
Fracture of Spine,
Do.,
Lacerated,
20
26
Do.
of Skull,
Do..
do., of Perinceum.
1
Do.
Do.,
Gun-shot of Face,
Compound of Acro-Į
mion,
1
Do.,
do. of Lower Jaw.
Do.
do.
of Skull,
Do.,
do.
of Breast Arm,
Do.
do.
of Scapula,
Do..
do.
of Upper Arm,
Do.
do.
* of Lower!
1
Jaw,
Do.,
do.
of Shoulder,...
Do.
do.
Do.,
do.
of Abdomen,
of Finger,
1
Do.,
do.
of Neck,
Do.
do.
of Tibia
Do.,
do.
of Thumb,
& Fibula,
Do.,
do.
of Thigh,
2
Do.
do.
of Tibia,.
Do.
do.
Commi-
Do.,
do.
of Leg,
1
Wounds, Punctured of Brain,
21
2
Do.,
do.
of Neck,
Do.,
do.
over Ribs,...
Thumb,
Do.,
do.
of Lung,
Do.,
do.
of Forearm,
Do.,
do.
of Thigh,
nuted of Lower Jaw,
Dislocation of Humerus,
Compound Dislocation of
Old Fracture of Neck of Hu-
merus,
19
::
Do., Do.,
do.
of Abdomen,
Attempted Hanging..
...
Painful Cicatrix of Thumb,.
•
do.
of Nates,....
Carried forward.....668 378 518 1564 27 18 25
70
TOTAL,..
681 384 558 1623 29
1623
18
32 79
~:
1
ง
2 2
~N
1 1
1
Partial Excision for Necrosis,-
Tibia,...
Metatarsus,
Amputations Primary,
Leg,
Fingers,
Removal of Tumours,-
Epithelioma of Lower Lip,.
Do. of Foot,
Fibrocystic Tumour of Neck,
Fibroma of Face,
Sebaceous Cyst of Face,
Removal of Bullets,—
From Face,
Do. Shoulder,
Do. Thighs,
Do. Lower Jaw,
Do. Leg,
Do. Breast,
Do. Nates and Os Calcis,
Do. Neck, ...
ני
2
Carried forward...................
::
::
Brought forward,..... 7 2
Removal of Bullets,-
From Upper Arm,
1
2222
Do. Thumb,
Of Hæmorrhoids,
Of Foreign Bodies from
the Cornca,
Incisions for,-
Paraphimosis, Fistula in Ano,
Hare Lip,
Lateral Lithotomy,
Extirpation of Eye-ball.
Paracentesis, Abdominal...
Do.,
Hydrocele Testis,.
Obstetric Operations,~ Long Forceps, Short Forceps, Craniotomy,.
...
1
22
31
223
Q
:
3
31
+
:
:
1
1
TOTAL...
16
14 35 65 1 1 2
C. J. WHARRY, M.D.,
Superintendent.
VI. TABLE shewing the RATE of MORTALITY in the GOVERNMENT CIVIL HOSPITAL during the last 10 Years.
Rate to Total Number of
Admissions.
Rate to Number of Europeans Rate to Number of Coloured Rate to Number of Chinese Persons Admitted.
Admitted.
Admitted.
1877,••• 1878, 1879,
Per cent.
5.15 1877, 3.88 1878,
Per cent.
4.16
Per cent.
Per cent.
1877.
3.25
1877,
8.12
3.46
1878,
3.08
1878,
5.76
5.13
1879,
3.12
1879,
8.39
1879,
4.72
1880,
4.17 1880,
3.73 1880,
2.66
1880,
5.80
1881,
3.96
1881,
3.87
1881,
3.09
1881,
4.80
1882,
4.66
1882,
4.35 1882,
4.38
1882,
5.24
1883, 1884,
4.66 1883,
4.37 1.883,
3.01
1883.
6.08
·
+
•
3.69 1884,
3.15 1884,
1.24
1884,
6.08
1885,
5.03
•
1886,
4,86
1885, 1886,
4.65 1885,
3.06
1885,
7.01
•
4.25
1886,
4.66
1886,
5.73
C. J. WHARRY, M.D., Superintendent.
VII. TABLE shewing the ADMISSIONS into and DEATHS in the GOVERNMENT CIVIL HOSPITAL during each Month of the Year 1886.
MONTHS.
EUROPEANS.
COLOURED.
CHINESE.
Admissions. Deaths. Admissions. Deaths. Admissions. Deaths.
421
TOTAL TOTAL Admissions. Deaths.
Remaining on the 1st
January, 1886,
38
5
7
50
January,
45
18
23
86.
4
February,
37
17
5:
.28
82.
6
March,
60
27
36
123
7
April,.
31
31
36.
98
3
'May,
55
28
127
9
June,.
57
42
58
157
7
July,
67
32
56
155
8
August,
54
37
49
6
140
13
September,
80
3.
33
42
1
155
4
October,
51.
1
54
November,
57
3
28
December,.
49
32
10 19 18 ·
60
4
165
79
I
164
6
·40
121
5
Total,
681
29
384
18
558
32
1,623
79
C. J. WHARRY, M.D., Superintendent.
VII. TABLE of ADMISSIONS INTO and DEATHS in SMALL POX HOSPITAL, 1886.
No.
SEX.
NATIONALITY. AGE.
DATE OF ADMISSION.
DATE OF DISCHARGE.
No. of DAYS IN HOSPITAL.
DESCRIPTION
OF
RESULT.
PATIENT.
1
Male
English
42
18th January
9th Feb.
39
Board of Trade
Recovered.
2
Do.
Arab
25
16th
""
Do.
English
36
26th
2nd 18th
17
Do.
Do.
12
23
Private Paying
Do.
""
""
Do.
English
21
27th
6th
10
Board of Trade
Do.
27
Do.
West African
22
27th
26th
30
Do.
Do.
•
37
""
Do.
English
20
10th February
Gth Marcli
24
Private Paying
Do.
77
Do.
German
38
15th March
5th April
21
Do.
Do.
8
Female
Portuguese
18
5th April
7th
Destitute
Died.
وو
9
Male
English
25
10th
18th June
69
Private Paying
Recovered.
10
Do..
Malay
26
27th
19th May
Board of Trade
Dǝ.
11.
Do.
English
23
30th Dec.
31st Dec.
Private Paying In Hospital.
C. J. WHARRY, M.D., Superintendent.
VIII.-LIST of DEAD BODIES brought by the POLICE to the PUBLIC MORTUARY
during each Month of the Year 1886,
EUROPEANS.
COLOURED.
CHINESE.
MONTHS.·
TOTAL.
Adults.
Children.
Adults. Children.
Adults.
Children.
January,
February,
March,
April,.
12
May,
June,
July,
August,
September,
8
12
17
13
14
October,
1
5
November,
· December,
82
43
134
Total,.
7
10
8
1.
10
10
3
kad po 20 3 10 00 00 -NOW
3
11
9
17.
15.
8
422
TABLE IX.
TABLE shewing the 'ADMISSIONS into HOSPITAL in VICTORIA GAOL, and MORTALITY during the
year
DISEASES.
ADMISSIONS.
DEATHS.
1886.
Euro-
peans.
Coloured Persons.
Chinese. TOTAL.
Euro-Coloured peans. Persons.
Chinese. TOTAL.
Remaining under treatment 1st January, 1886,
2
9
11
I.-Febricula, Fever,
:
2
19
Remittent,
II-Rheumatism,
2
2
2
Scrofulous Testicle,
Secondary Syphilis,
4
1
III-Apoplexy,.
Serous Apoplexy,
Ι
1
1
1
Cephalagia, Ophthalmia,
IV-Anæmia,
Aneurism,
Dropsy,
1
1
1
5
5
1
1
1
1
Morbus Cordis, Phlebitis,..
4
1
Ι
V & VI.-Bubo, (Symp.),
11
11
Bubo and Chancre,.
1
1
Enlarged Gland,........
1
Parotitis,
3
3
VII-Asthma,
Bronchitis,
Phthisis,
VIII.-Aphthous Mouth,
Ascitis,
2
12
1
Ascaridis,
1
: 2
2
Colic and Constipation,
1
Diarrhoea,
9.
13
Dysentery,
14
16
Chronic Dysentery,
1
1
Fistula,
Gastritis,
1
1
Hæmorrhage,
Hepatitis,
2
3
Hæmorrhoids,
Jaundice,
1
3
Peritonitis,
2
2
IX. & X.-Chancre,
Phimosis,.
1
1.
Bright's Disease,.
1.
XI-Disease of the Bursæ,
XII. Abscess,
1
32
33
Boils,
1
1
Carbuncle,
Erysipelas,
4
Herpes Zoster,
2
Intertrigo,
Ulcer,
1
5
Urticaria,
4216 I`
Unclassed.
Alcoholia,
Debility,
2
21
21
2
2
General Debility,
Privation,
Wounds and Injuries.
Contusions,
Bullet Wound,
Contused. Wound,
Contused Wound, (Flogging),..
Fractures;
Scald,
Observation,
Unknown or Unrecognized.
9
:
1
1
1
7
11
11
2
2
1
· 1
10
14
:
TOTAL,....
42
197
239 ·
2
OTHER DEATHS:-2 Suicide by Strangulation in Sleeping-cell, 1 Aneurism of the Aorta, 1 Syncope.
:
:
9
423
-TABLE shewing the CASES not ADMITTED to HOSPITAL, treated by the COLONIAL SURGEON, during the Year 1886.
DISEASES.
Remaining under treatment 1st January, 1886,
I
Fever,
Febricula,
Scurvy,
II..
Rheumatism,
Secondary Syphilis,
IV.
Anæmia,
V. & VI.
Bubo,
VII.
Bronchitis,
VIII.
Aphthæ, Diarrhoea, Dyspepsia, Hepatitis,
XII.
Abscess,
Unclassed.
Debility,
Opium Smoking,
Accouchement,
Wounds and Injuries.
Contused Wound (Flogging),
Unknown or Unrecognized.
Observation,
Europeans.
Coloured. Persons.
Chinese.
TOTAL.
1.
1
1
2
.3
1.
2
2
1
~
N
1
1
1
1.
1
2
3
2
6
1
Ι
1
1
36
36
1
TOTAL,....
9
59
68
XI.-TABLE shewing the RATE of SICKNESS and MORTALITY in VICTORIA GAOL during the Year 1886.
Total No. of Prisoners admitted to Gaol.
Total Sick in
Daily
Serious Average
Sick, Total Sickness No. of
Trifling Deaths. Prisoners. Hospital Cases.
Total
Rate of Sickness.
Rate of Mortality.
to Total.
To Total. To Average. To Total. To Average.
4,600
674
238
68
9
0.051
0.066
0.035
0.0019
0.013
424
TABLE XIα.-CASES ADMITTED to VICTORIA GAOL HOSPITAL, at the first Medical Examination by the COLÒNIAI. SURGEON, during the Year 1886.
SENTENCE.
No.
DISEASES.
DATE
DATE
OF
OF
REMARKS.
ADMISSION. DISCHARGE.
Years. Mos.Days.
:
42 Contusion,
4 January.
6 January.
2
3
7
:
:.:
:
:
Privation,.
4.
20
وو
42
Diarrhoea,
12
Hæmorrhoids,
5
6
8
9
10
11
12
:
:
:
:
:.
:
:.
14
Bubo,
12
""
20
1 March.
24 January,
وو
21
Alcoholia,
14
26
وو
Debility,....
22
27
>>
4
:
Debility,
23
26
25
4
Debility,
23
**
Observation,
26
298 155
26
ཐ
"
27
Scut to Tung-wa Hospital.
On Remand.
:
N
:
Debility,...
1 February.
5 February.
Bronchitis,
5
1 March.
13
14
...
14
Aneurism,
25
10
وو
3
Serous Apoplexy,
3. March.
22
15
16
17
18
19
20.
21
:
:
:
21 Morbus Cordis,
16
39
5 April.
Sent to Tung-wa Hospital."
Died.
21
Morbus Cordis,
18
7
Sent to Tung-wa Hospital.
3
Bubo,
25
27 March.
Diarrhoea,
2
දෘර්ථ
:
:
:..
3. April.
7 April.
Alcoholia,
7
10
"2
Debility,
9
10
"
:
14
Abscess,
26
5 May.
223
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
31
35
36
42
::.
:
:
:
:
:
:.
:
:
Observation,
28
29 April.
1
Anæmia,
5 May.
15
May.
42
Debility,
13
39
Contused Wound,
5 July.
12 July.
1
Fracture,
6
:
14
Fever,...
20
28
Phthisis,.
20
1
Diarrhoea,.
21
1
:
6
÷
:
Anemia,
Debility,.
Observation,
Contusion,
18
22
7 August.
5 August.
24 July.
16 August.
17
27
Ou Remand.
92
:
:
12
:
11 Sept.
8 October.
21
:
27 Sept.
1 October.
4 October.
42
Debility,...
12.
21
"
>>
7
Dysentery,
11 Nov.
17 Nov.
Sent to Tung-wa Hospital.
Anæmia,.
11
Dece.
425
XIb.-TABLE showing the WEIGHTS of PRISONERS (OPIUM SMOKERS) for the First Four Weeks' Confinement in VICTORIA GAOL), during the Year 1886.
No.
AGE.
NUMBER OF YEARS OPIUM
CONSUMPTION PER DIEM.
WEIGHT WHEN
ADMITTED.
SMOKER.
WEIGHT FIRST FOUR
WEEKS.
REMARKS.
1
42
7
Years.
3 Mace.
114
lbs.
110
110 109 109
36
10
115
110
109
111
111
•
"
37
15
98
97
97
25
Paid his fine.
10
107
105
106
106
>>
10
104
105
104
103
104
**
10
108
107
-107
109
"
107
10
108
106
107
104
104
>>
10
106
102
101
100
:)
8
97
97
93
93
":
""
92
10
16
106
106
103
103
::
104
11
10
91
84
$6
88
90
12
28
91
87.
86
83
"
""
13
40
10
107
102
101
104
>>
101
14
30
101
101
103
"
102
101
15
49
10
1
107
107
108
106
107
25
16
54
26
125
120
122
119
#
121
17
40
125
121
120
119
119
"3
18 36
1
101
97
99
98
$3
19
52
20
103
96
100
102
107
•
20
30
10
111
110
112
114
113
21
46
96
96
98
100
25
22
34
10
126
132
133
:
"
131
130
23
29
1
91
90
90
94
100
""
24
38
3
116
117
114
114.
114
•
25
46
7
1
100
99
98
97
97
"
26
44
18
: 94
91
92
92
92
#
27
43
2
· 101
103
105
102
102
28
25
3
100
103
107
102
104
29
57
20
90
91
92
94
93
30
66
30
106
31
47
32
48
10
33 31
7
34
52
20
35
48
22
36
25
37 36
2
"
38
60
10
39 36
6
"
40
50
20
41
62
30
*
42
36
3
37
43
10
57
18
11
45
38
10
:་
46
40
.20
47
20
48
20
49
20
50
20
51
52
30
53
30
54
20
55
20
56
51
24
57
32
10
58
34
10
་་
59
39
3
•
60
19
61
40
10
62
55
20
63
55
14
་་
64
56
6
65
50
20
66
45.
10
#
67
30
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101
102
100
100
101
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102
100
99
101
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112
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Paid his fine.
4
102
Paid his fine.
4
106
"
Paid his fine.
2
104
101
102
104
107
29
113
109
"
Paid his fine.
3
85
85
85
87
86
*
2
111
"
Discharged.
126
116
115
114
119
"
84
81
83
80
84
";
2
108
106
106.
107
109
"
**
115
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110 112
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99
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91
94
92
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95
96
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102
103
103
84
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116
114
117
116
117
19
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98
97
i15
91
108
110
111
111
89
88
90
-94
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91
85
89
90
91
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>>
92
91
.100
102
102
>>
15
110
110
109
111
104
102
104
103
101
124
:>
123
121
121
124
98
D
102
102
104
101
103
#
103
104
105
103
Paid his fine.
111
109
111
109
109
101
102
103
102
103
104
98
100
100
100
132
Paid his fine.
91
89
94
97
96
109
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"
102
106
108
109
119
120
116
117
117
.
115
108
108
108
108
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102
100
105
105
105
105
100
101
102
102
""
113
112
111
110
110
步步
117
112
116
115
114
123
117
118
118
118
11t
Paid his fine.
**
10
102
96
97
*99
100
"
76
35
2
102
102 100
100
102
77
30
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109
29
114
112
111
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112
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115
113
115
80
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117
117
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91
97
93
89
91
86
37
93
94
95
95
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87
90
84
82
90
90
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10
114
114
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89
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106
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108
108
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24
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102
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109
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108
109
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97
50
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91
94
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100
17
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94
96
95
101
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1
128
126
126
126
126
:
-
426
XIC.-TABLE shewing OPIUM SMOKERS ADMITTED to HOSPITAL and treated by the COLONIAL SURGEON during the Year 1886.
DISEASES.
Remaining under treatment 1st January, 1886,
Diarrhoea,
Nos. 2, 49,.
Debility,
,, 11, 31, 38, 56, 70,
Morbus Cordis,
""
21, 17,...
Anæmia,
37, 50,......
*
Observation,
دو
61,
TOTAL,..
Europeans.
Coloured Persons.
Chinese.
Total.
:
2
2
10
10
5
2
2
2
1
12
12
XId.--TABLE shewing the NUMBER and DESCRIPTION of PATIENTS treated in the GOVERNMENT LUNATIC ASYLUM during the Year 1886.
No.
Native of
Sex.
Agc.
Diseases.
W
Date of Admission.
Date of Discharge.
No. of Days in Asylum.
Description of Patients.
Bagdad...
M.
50
Dementia,
1st Jan.
2nd June
153
2
Germany,
F.
23
Dementia,
365
•
Destitute. Private Paying.
Hongkong,
M. 24
China,
F.
16
Dementia, Mania,
2nd June
153
Destitute.
12th Jan.
11
France,
M. 24
Mania,
16th Jan.
15
Private Paying.
Austria,
M. 42
Depsomanice,
29th Mar.
277
China,
M.
17
Observation,
8th April
12th April
Destitute.
8
Jamaica,
M.
30
Observation,
1st May
4th May
The Board of Trade.
Jamaica,
M. 30
Mono-mania,
21st
225
10
China,
M. 22
Mania,
9th Aug.
14th Aug.
Destitute.
11
Germany,
M.
Mania,
13th
3rd Sept.
21
Private Paying.
12
Barbadoes,
M.
Mania,
21st
133
"2
13
China,
M.
47
Dementia,
14
Ireland,
M. 34
Observation,.
15
Macao,
F.
27 Dementia,.
8th Sept. 31st Oct. 13th Nov.
16th Sept. 2nd Nov.
**
Destitute.
Private Paying.
16
Bagdad,..
M.
Dementia,
20th
17th Dec.
27
Destitute.
*>
XII. TABLE of STATISTICS relating to the TUNG WA HOSPITAL during the Year 1886.
Remaining in Hospital 31st Dec., 1885.
Admitted during the year 1886.
No. of ases Treated in the Hospital, 1886.
No. of Patients Discharged during the year 1886.
Died during 1886
No. of Out-Patients Treated during 1886.
Moribund Cases,
1886.
Remaining in Hospital 31st Dec.,
1886.
Males.
Females.
Total.
87
12 99 1,732 316 2,048 1,732 316 2,048 840 101 941 893
216.1,109
9.1,427
28,465 122,892
204 83
287 86 11 97
XIII.
CASES of SMALL-Pox treated at the TUNG WA HOSPITAL during the Year 1886.
Remaining in Hospital 31st December, 1885.
Admitted during 1886.
Discharged.
Died.
Remaining in Hospital 31st December, 1886.
Male. Female. Total. | Male. Female. Total. Male. Female. Total. Male. Female. Total. Male. Female. Total.
29
25
54
4
12 21
21
42
XIV.-VACCINATIONS performed during the Year 1886 by TRAVELLING VACCINATORS of the TUNG WA HOSPITAL.
In the City of Victoria.
2,735
In Out-Districts. ·
Sáukiwán,
Aberdeen,
Yaumáti,
42
15
14
Total.
2,806
JAMES CLERIHEW,
Inspector of Nuisance,
Western Health District.
XV.-LOCK HOSPITAL.
TABLE A
SHEWING the ADMISSIONS into the GOVERNMENT LOCK HOSPITAL, during the 29 Years of its Existence, with the Number of DIETS issued and the AVERAGE LENGTH of TREATMENT.
ADMISSIONS.
NUMBER OF DIETS ISSUED.
AVERAGE NUMBER OF DAYS Treated.
1858,
124
1858,..
4,797
1858,.
43.8
1859,
162
1859,
5,389
1859,
30.8
1860,
361
1860.
9,107
1860,
23.7
1861,
442
1861
10,778
1861
28.4
1862,
485
1862,
12,193 1862.
22.0
1863,
420
1863,
11,707 1863,
23.7
1864,
442
1864,.
11,940 1864.
27.0
1865,
390
1865,
11,303
1865
28.0
1866,
406
1866,
13,060
1866,
28.6
1867,
434
1867,
13,120 1867,
25.5
1868,
679
1868,
16,462
1868,
23.6
1869,
546
1869,.
16,779
1869,
24.8
1870,
722
1870,
18,382
1870,
23.1
1871,
593
1871,
12,308
1871
18.5
1872,
656
1872,
15,103
1872,.
20.9
1873,
500
1873,
11,219
1873,
19.5
1874,
345
1874,.
6,814
1874,.
18.6
1875,
134
1875,
2,916
1875.
18.7
1876,
168
1876,
2,730
1876,
14.3
1877,
177
1877,
3,069
1877,
16.6
1878,
105
1878,.
2,242
1878,.
19.0
1879,
129
1879,
2,199
1879,
13.6
1880,
57
1880,
1,300
1880,
14.7
1881,
44
1881.
1,830 1881,
21.7
1882,
99
1882,
1,831
1882.
15.5
1883,
273
1883,
3,451
1888,
12.0
1884,
325
1884,
5.174
1884,
13.1
1885,
411
1885,
6,161
1885
15.6
1886,
401
1886,
4,837
1886,
12.2
Number of Beds in Lock Hospital.
32
Daily Average. 13. Longest stay, 133 days.
TABLE B.
i
KETURN of the NUMBER of PROSTITUTES, brought under the Provisions of Ordinance No. 10, during the Year 1886.
Number admitted
into Hospital
on Certificates of Resident Surgeon.
401
Number who submitted voluntarily.
272
Number against whom
it was necessary to proceed by Information before the Registrar General.
57
Total Number brought under the Provisions of the Ordinance.
272
Total Number of Examinations made during the Year.
13,425
*
* Including the examination which were made outside the Lock Hospital.
Total Number of Examinations made when no Disease was found.
13,024
Total Number Discharged from Hospital.
414
TABLE C.
CONTAGIOUS DISEASES RETURN for the Year 1886.
TOTAL NUMBER OF MEN DISEASED
Total No. of Females
admitted
into Lock Military Naval Police Civil
Hospital. Hospital. Hospital. Hospital. Hospital.
ADMITTED INTO
AVERAGE NUMBER OF MEN IN GARRISON AND PORT (per Month).
Average
No. of
Total No. of Men Diseased.
Soldiers. Seamen. Police.
Men in Mer- Garrison chant and Port Seamen. [(per month).
Average Percentage of Men Diseased (per month).
401
216
235
25
65
541
1,306
1,178 648
16,507 19,639
0.229
TABLE D.
REMARKS.
RETURN of WOMEN examined and treated in the GOVERNMENT LOCK HOSPITAL during the Year 1886.
EXAMINATION.
HOSPITAL.
DISCHARGED.
Average No. of
days per month on which Exami-
nations were held.
Total Number of
Examinations made during the
year.
Total
Number admitted
into
Hospital.
Total Number of
Examinations made when no Dis-
ease was found.
Every day
Sunday and
Goverment holidays
excepted.
13,425
401
13,024
DISEASES.
Primary Syphilis, uncomplicated, Gonorrhoea,
do..
Do.. and Primary Syphilis, combined, Secondary Syphilis,
P. and Secondary Syphilis and Gonorrhoea,.
TOTAL........
TABLE D. 2.
No. remaining in
Hospital, 31st December, 1885.
. Admitted.
Total Treated.
Cured.
No. remaining in
Hospital, 31st December, 1886.
59
60
60
10
274
284
281
284
63
68
63
6
6
6
1
13
401
414
414
414
Shewing the Number of UNLICENSED PROSTITUTES apprehended under Ordinance No. 10 of 1867, during the Year 1886.
In Houses,
NO. OF WOMEN.
57
CONVICTED.
DISCHARGED.
57
34
FOUND DISEASED.
23
427
428
'
TABLE E.
CONTAGIOUS DISEASES RETURN for the Year 1886.
DISEASES.
Primary Syphilis, uncomplicated,
Gonorrhoea, uncomplicated,
Do.,
Gonorrhoea and
and Primary Syphilis, combined,
do.,
Primary and Secondary Syphilis, combined,
do.,
Primary and Secondary Syphilis and Gonorrhoea, Gleet,
January,
February,
March,
April,
May,
June,
July,
August,
September,
October,
November,
December,
Military
Hospital.
Naval Hospital.
Police Hospital.
Civil Hospital.
40
55
G
17
100
151
14
28
2
71
20
17
4
3
TOTAL,...
.1886,.
216
235
25
65
TOTAL,...
.1885,..
145
200
27
130
TOTAL,.......
.1884,..
159
149
41
94
TOTAL,
...1883..
153
225
42
93
TABLE E 2.
CONTAGIOUS DISEASES ORDINANCE.
TABLE shewing the number of NAVAL MEN admitted into NAVAL HOSPITAL during the Yer 1886.
Months.
SECONDARY SYPHILIS.
Contracted
in Hongkong.
Contracted
elsewhere.
1
1
126
Total.
·
4
5
1
FO & N. H
1
2
2
1
227
1
2
2
2
▼
Total Number,.....
· TABLE E 3.
20
CONTAGIOUS DISEASES ORDINANCE.
TABLE shewing the number of MILITARY MEN admitted into MILITARY HOSPITAL during the Year 1886.
SECONDARY SYPHILIS.
January,
February,
March,
April,
May,
June,
July,
August,
September,
October,
November,
December,
Months.
Contracted in Hongkong.
15
Contracted elsewhere.
Total.
15
15
15
15
15
...
2
5
2
4
4
4132
4
1
3
2
1
1
2
2
Total Number,..
71
Years.
XVI. TABLE shewing the rate of MORTALITY among the FOREIGN RESIDENTS in Hongkong during the last 10 Years.
Number of European and
American Residents.
Percentage of Deaths to
Deaths.
Number of Residents.
1877, 1878,
2,767
84
3.03
2,767
67
2.42
:
1879,
2,767
55
1.98
1880,
2,767
69
2.49
1881,
3,040
64
2.10
1882,
3,040
55
1.80
1883,
3,040
81
2.06
1884,
3,040
94.
3.09
1885,
3,040
99
3.25
1886,
3,040
103
3.38
Average of 10 Years,...!
2,930.8
77.1
2.560
429
+
Enclosure 1.
Report from the Superintendent of the Civil Hospital.
GOVERNMENT CIVIL HOSPITAL,
HONGKONG, 29th April, 1887.
SIR,--I have the honour to forward my last report on the Civil Hospital, with the usual tables of statistics.
2. The Hospital Establishment has passed through many vicissitudes since I took charge in February, 1873, the old Mission House in which I found it installed having been wrecked in the great typhoon of 1874: the old Hotel de l'Europe, its next habitat, was burned in the great fire of 1878, and the old Lock Hospital into which it finally moved, has been enlarged and transformed to a certain extent, the Hospital work going on as usual during the alterations.
3. The want of space felt in the old Lock Hospital was met by occupying the New Female Lock Hospital, finished in 1880, until the entire Civil Hospital shall be completed.
4. The Civil Hospital as it now stands is a striking contrast to its predecessor of 1873, and its usefulness and efficiency vastly increased.
5. I may remark that in May, 1873, the Seamen's Hospital was sold to the Admiralty, and its work in consequence devolved upon the Civil Hospital.
6. The sources whence the supply of patients is derived I mentioned in detail in my report of last year, so I need not repeat them.
Speaking generally, they come from everywhere, and are of every colour and tongue, and suffer from almost every imaginable complaint.
7. As a field of observation the Civil Hospital is unsurpassed, and it is much to be regretted that there is no opportunity to record the varied and interesting experiences gained there.
8. The appointment of a second Medical Officer is urgently needed and cannot be long deferred. 9. Mr. CROW, head Apothecary and Analyst, has proved a great acquisition to the Medical Depart- ment, and I am indebted to him for many useful suggestions.
A second Apothecary has been added to the Dispensing staff and when quarters in the Hospital have been provided for him the dispensary service will be continuous.
10. Mr. ROGERS, the Steward and Storekeeper, has been indefatigable in his department, sparing no pains to increase the efficiency and economy of the Hospital service.
11. Mr. Lo CHUNG-IP, who was appointed clerk in March, is commendable for his diligence and steadiness, and is a great improvement on his immediate predecessors.
12. Messrs. WATSON and Roy, the Wardmasters, with increasing experience in the care of the sick and the management of the Chinese 'attendants, are able year by year to do more for the welfare of the patients.
Their duties are very harassing, and they deserve credit for the way they get through them.
13. Mr. CARNEIRO, Wardmaster to the Small-pox Hospital is attached to the Civil Hospital during the six summer months, and his assistance is valuable not only as nurse, but as interpreter, for he has a useful knowledge of English, French, Spanish and Chinese, as well as Portuguese, his native tongue. 14. CHAN-LOK, the principal Chinese dresser, was relieved from Post Mortem work at the Public Mortuary by the appointment of a regular mortuary assistant PAU Wo: much to the advantage of the patients whose wounds he has to dress.
15. The Chinese staff in general have worked fairly well: a small increase of pay to several of the senior nurses has had a beneficial effect.
When proper quarters are built for the Chinese attendants, changes will be less frequent among them and their work will be better done.
16. The maximum number of beds now available is 98, including nine for women.
A new building with accommodation for 54 beds is in course of construction.
17. The Hospital Register contains 1629 cases (54 more than in 1885), of which 6 were not admitted. The latter, comprising surgical injuries of various kinds were treated in the surgery and dismissed. A number of others were attended to of whom no record was kept.
The remaining 1623 treated in Hospital included 50 who remained at the end of 1885; of this number 602 were Police, and the remaining 1021 consisted of Government employés, officers and seamen from merchant ships of all nations and from foreign ships of war, private residents, destitutes, prisoners, and members of the Chinese Customs and Revenue services.
18. The Police admissions were more numerous than ever before, being 107 more than in 1885:
14 more Europeans, 35 more Indians, and 58 more Chinese.
The increasingly unwholesome condition of the town and of the foreshores accounts for this.
19. Table III shows the numbers from each Station.
20. The Police suffered principally from fevers and bowel complaints, bronchial affections and surgical injuries.
1
X
L
430
21. The total number of days spent in Hospital in 1886 by members of the Force was 7043: in 1885 it was 4574; about half as many more days were spent off duty on sick leave.
22. Table V shows the varieties of disease among the patients generally, with the mortality from each.
23. Nine cases of typhoid fever were treated, of which one died.
24. Fifty cases of Dysentery were received, of which four proved fatal.
25. Four hundred and six cases of what may be called Hongkong fever were treated, with a successful result in every case but one, this latter came from Aberdeen.
Given a sub-tropical climate, a teeming population, a deficiency of water, defective drainage and a large town built with but little regard to sanitary principles, and the result is inevitable. Very few of the inhabitants escape deterioration of health, and a large and yearly increasing number suffer from attacks of fever and dysentery.
It is a common belief that this so-called climatic disease is to be attributed to disturbance of the soil, however slight in extent, but where the atmosphere is laden with foul odours from the sewers, from the surface pollution and from the reeking foreshores, these latter must be held accountable for a large share of the sickness in Hongkong.
!
26. Four Cases of Beri-Beri were admitted from a Siamese Brig, the European Mate and three Malay Seamen. They had made a long voyage from Bankok to Hongkong, had run short of provisions, and had suffered from exposure. The symptoms resembled those of scurvy, with paralysis of the extremities superadded. The treatment was directed to improvement of their general condition, with galvanism of the legs and armis, and they all recovered. A careful record of these cases would have been valuable but it was not possible to keep it.
27. Fewer cases of Enthetic disease were treated in Hospital in 1886, but it does not follow that it was less prevalent in the Colony.
28. Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatism sent 27 patients to Hospital, of which one died.
29. Anomia was accountable for 35 cases, Phthisis for 21, of which 5 died.
30. There were 8 admissions with ascites, all of hepatic origin, and two died.
31. Four cases of paralysis of the extremities were treated, these are sometimes registered as Beri-Beri; with constitutional treatment and galvanism they usually recover.
32. Injuries to the eye were somewhat more frequent than in 1885.
33. Pulmonary affections were not more numerous.
34. Bowel complaints as usual caused a large number of admissions; with fewer deaths, however, "than in 1885.
35. There was a large increase in affections of the liver. Among them were two cases of abscess. The first was a European Police Constable, he was treated with the aspirator, and the abscess afterwards freely laid open. He eventually succumbed, and post mortem several other large abscesses and a number of small ones were discovered.
The second occurred in a Sikh Constable, who made a good recovery after the abscess was opened with a scalpel and a drainage tube inserted.
36. Renal diseases were somewhat more frequent.
37. Three cases of stone in the bladder were admitted, in two, the stone was successfully extracted by lateral lithotomy, and the third was not willing to remain long enough in Hospital for operation. 38. Three women in labour were admitted for instrumental delivery, one of whom, was too far gone for recovery. In 1885 there were seven such cases.
39. Abscesses and surgical affections brought in the average number.
40. Poisonings were more numerous, no fewer than six opium cases coming in, of which however, four arrived too late for successful treatment.
41. Wounds of all kinds and all degrees of severity were very numerous as usual.
Gunshot wounds being on the increase. Fractures simple and compound were more frequent than in 1885; no fewer than 49 being admitted, of which seven proved fatal.
42. Operations were more numerous than in 1885.
43. Seventy-nine deaths occurred in Hospital during the year, and the number would have been larger but that some of the hopeless cases among the Chinese were removed by their relatives.
44. The receipts from patients in 1886 were larger than ever before, and amounted to $10,313.23 of which $2,501.50 was derived from the Board of Trade, and $1,036.15 from the Police.
45. In 1885 the receipts were $6,653.74, of which $1,618.50 came from the Board of Trade, and $690.87 from the Police.
46. The visiting Justices have made frequent inspections of the Hospital during the year, and their reports have invariably been favourable. They have on several occasions suggested improvements in the building and fittings, such as the laying on of hot water to the bath rooms, the removal of the high wall which shuts in the south side of the Hospital enclosure &c., some of their suggestions have been acted on, but the two mentioned have not been carried out.
47. The collapse of the Steam Laundry Company left the Hospital dependent on the Chinese washer- men and the result is not satisfactory. One of these days, perhaps, the Hospital will have its own laundry.
431
48. The Hospital still remains without any facility for disinfecting bedding and clothing, although I understand that a steam disinfector has been lying in the Government store for months past.
49. I now conclude a somewhat hasty review of the work of the Civil Hospital in 1886. 50. The number of patients and consequent responsibility and anxiety were larger than ever before, and the revenue from patients considerably exceeded that of any previous year.
51. With the growth of the Colony, the Hospital work has naturally increased, and there is no doubt that one Medical Officer is not now sufficient for the requirements of the Establishment.
52. That I have been able to carry on the work so long is due to the obliging disposition of Dr. MARQUES, and his ever ready assistance.
I trust that the frequent gratuitous services of Dr. MARQUES, in the Civil Hospital will one day be recognized by the Government, and a satisfactory position in the Department accorded to him.
53. I must add a word of thanks to the Naval and Military Surgeons who are, and have been on the station, for valuable assistance, especially at operations.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
Dr. PH. B. C. AYRES,
Colonial Surgeon.
Enclosure 2.
Report on the Lock Hospital.
C. J. WHARRY, M.D., Superintendent.
GOVERNMENT LOCK HOSPITAL,
HONGKONG, February 8th, 1887.
SIR, I have the honour to forward the Annual Report together with Tables of the work done in this Hospital and at Wántsai during the past year.
2. The total number of examinations made at Wántsai was 361, and at this hospital 12,464. 3. The admissions including those from unregistered brothels, who on examination were found to be diseased, amounted to 401 women, being 10 less than in 1885.
4. The number of registered women admitted for the last three years is as follows :---
SYPHILIS.
Primary.
Year.
Number of examinations.
And Cutane-
Hard Chancre
ous
Erup- tion.
1884.
12,522
100 72 65
1
1
4 41
1 286 12,236
1885.
12,454
67 168 38
1
I
1886.
12,407
111155 51
2
1
4
93 40**
333
REMARKS.
367 12,087 * These were all extirpated, and the women were not admitted.
1*
378 12,029
5. It will be seen that more Registered women were again admitted last year than in the two previous years.
6. There was a marked decrease in cases of abrasion and ulceration of the os uteri; of Primary and Secondary syphilis there were three cases.
7. In consequence perhaps of the large number of men-of-war assembled in the harbour during the past year, the complaints against the registered women have been greater, but this does not neces- sarily imply that there has been a noticeable increase of serious disease amongst these women, as many of them are wrongly charged.
8. It is strange that complaints from a certain class of men should generally be made against some houses whose inmates are particularly clean.
:
•
?
#
*
432
9. I believe that more efficient means must be taken to trace the locality where the diseases prevail. 10. Altogether, 209 registered women were pointed out, and yet only 78, or 37 per cent, as shown in Table I, were found to be diseased.
11. Of the 57 women reported to have given sores, 18 were detained, and five of them were.in hospital some time before the complaints were received.
Of the 152 women reported to have transmitted gonorrhoea infection, 58 were kept, many of them on account of a little leucorrhoea; and 7 were already in hospital. With the exception of Her Majesty's Army and Navy, few complaints were made from other quarters.
There were received from the Government Civil Hospital 2 complaints of gonorrhoea and 3 of venereal sores; and 2 women were found to be infected.
12. The different classes of men known to have contracted venereal sores and gonorrhoea, together with the months in which they got sick, are recorded in Tables II and III.
13. Only 57 women convicted of having carried on clandestine prostitution were sent to this hospital for examination; 23 of them were found to be diseased, and 2 were suffering from secondary syphilis.
The nature of their diseases with a few remarks are given in Return G.
14. I described in last year's report, the inconvenience and inaccuracy which follow from still keeping in use in this hospital Forms A and C, which were evidently intended for diseases observed amongst men.
To name again an instance, such a simple affection as labial abscess, for want of a proper place in it, has to be entered as "Gonorrhoea and Primary Syphilis combined"; otherwise the exact number of the patients treated would not correspond in Form C.
Moreover these Forms were adopted when there was no daily examination, and under the present changed circumstances they must be altered, if we wish them to be strictly correct.
I also stated last year that for the daily entrances we have to make use of Form D. The results of the examinations made at Wántsai are recorded in a similar Form F.
15. The suggestion made by me and afterwards recommended by the visiting Justices of Peace, of teaching the patients needle work, has been put in practice and with fair success, as I am informed by the Matron.
Instead of paying the patients for the work done, as I proposed, the Government has been very liberal towards them, by supplying them with the necessary materials for the work, and allowing them to keep it for themselves when finished.
16. Mr. DE SOUZA, who had been for many years Apothecary to this hospital and had done good service, had lately to retire on pension, owing to ill-health.
Mr. ROGERS, the Steward of the Government Civil Hospital, has been appointed to the post of Steward and Clerk to this department.
17. During my illness in the month of November, Dr. G. JORDAN who was then Acting Colonial Surgeon, took charge of this Establishment until your return to the Colony.
18. The disease which required the longest period of treatment was syphilis, with the exception of two cases of leucorrhea and warts. One woman so affected had to remain 133, and another 123 days in the hospital.
19. For sometime past my attention has been occupied with finding the most effective and rapid method of treating venereal warts. The use of astringents and ligatures does not succeed in every case. Extirpation could not be employed in warts which grow in patches, without producing big sores. Having resorted to many of the official preparations without obtaining a complete cure, I thought of trying the juice of Papaw (Carica Papaya) which has been used in diphtheria.
The leaves of this plant, it is said, are employed in the West Indies to render flesh meat tender.
I directed that a still green fruit cut in slices should be rubbed over the warts.
In a short time, the warts had disappeared, and the slight redness of the skin caused by the juice, vanished within few days.
As this plant is extensively cultivated in the South of China, I have advised the women to make use of this property. It may be that, owing to the advice being followed, there were so few cases of warts last year. In 1885, 40 women were specially treated for this complaint.
20. In the beginning of the year there were under treatment 13 patients, and on the last day of December there was none in hospital.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
Dr. PH. B. C. AYRES,
Colonial Surgeon,
&C.,
&C.,
&c.
L. P. MARQUES,
Medical Officer in charge of the Hospital.
D.
RETURN showing the NUMBER of TIMES in which WOMEN were examined and treated in the Lock HOSPITAL during the Year 1886.
Gonorrhoea.
Leucorrhoea.
Soft Sore.
FOUND DISEASED.
SYPHILIS.
Primary.
and
Hard cutaneous
Chancre. eruption.
. DISCHARGED CURED.
SYPHI-
LIS.
Secondary.
Abrasion.
Ul. of os Uteri.
Labial Abscess.
Warts.
Free from Disease.
Remained.
Admitted.
Total Treated.
Gonorrhoea.
Leucorrhoea.
Soft Sore.
Secondary.
Abrasion.
Remaining in Hospital.
Ul. of os Uteri.
Labial Abscess. Total Discharged.
Number
1886.
of
Examin-
ations.
:
REMARKS.
40 14
291 12
31 16
29 12
44 23
* The warts were extirpated, the woman was not admitted.
a 1 had also labial abscess.
b 1 had bubo besides
e 1 had also warts.
d Condylomata.
e 1 had roseola and ulceration of throat, &c., another had condylomota.
f Eczema, ulceration of the os uteri, and gonorrhoea.
g 2 of these women had also warts. 40 15 1 had vesicular eruption, &c., another had roseola, ulceration of the os uteri & gonorrhoea.
¿ 2 of them were suffering from ulceration of the cervix uteri, and another had gonorrhoea besides.
34 15j 1 of them was suffering also of
loucorrhoea.
k I had also soft sores.
7 Hard sore and vesicular crúp- tion.
Ulceration of legs.
y Sores of vagina, ulceration of the os uteri and roscola.
≈ Psoriasis,
B Roseola, ulceration of throat and lips.
:
:
9
:
:
7
3
3
1*
1,017 13
41 54
CO
25
6
læ
::
:
847 14
27
41
-
9
3a
10
:
:
Ly
:
:
:
:
1,075 12
35 47 Ja
15a 3
:
:
2
CO
1,011| 16
25
41
10
10
46
IB 1
Co
2
3
:
:
א
12
4
ลง
1,028 12
:
:
2 1
1
1,055 | 23
12 223
67
1/
...
:
3
1
1,029 15 41 56 17a 129
ld
ཅ
፦
***
:
co
3
:
:
:
:.
Q
2 1
1
998 15
47 62
1ƒ
4 4 1
1 1
N
LO
954 13
36 49
905 15
40
55
:
:
:
:
:.
1,048 18
1,096 3
15
21 36 4 | 1* [12,063| 13 | 401|414|
33
51882 2 13 8
17 18a
2
3
55 206 10.
4.
1z
4
4
41 15
19¢ 17a
26 3
2
1
49 13
5
10
17
8c
3
1
:
5¢
12c
9i
2e
18g
2h
2
10
3 1
37 18
3
30 3
:
:
·λ
7 10 4k 1
4j
1
101 0
:
118
164 60
~
23
883
4 414
:
:
:
:
:
:
January,
1,058
ها
24a 3a
February,
874
6a
10a
4.
March,..
1,110
10
16
36
April,.
1,036
6
13a
2
May,
1,083
276
14 7
June,
1,087. 15
7 6
July,
1,070 19a
14g
August,
1,045 140
19.
9
September,
990
6
16
6c
October,
945
5g
18c
8
November,
1,063
8c.
ลง
December,
1,103. 3
1
3
Total,...
12,464
119
160 56
:
:
:
:
L. P. MARQUES,
Resident Surgeon.
433
TABLE I.
Year
RETURN of the NUMBER of COMPLAINTS against the REGISTERED WOMEN during the Year 1886.
NATURE OF COMPAINTS.
RESULT OF
EXAMINATION.
1886.
COMPLAINTS FROM
Gonorrhoea.
Soft Sore.
SYPHILIS.
Primary.
Hard
Chancre.
and
cutaneous eruptions.
F:
:
28
Different Quarters,
January,
February,
8890
Ly
3a
10
76
Do.,
14
4h
March,...
Do.,
16
2
I
Do.,
April,.
โก
18
Do.,
May,
7
2m
Do.,
June,
8
5n
Do..
July,
14
50
August,
Do.,
9
5u
September,
Do.,
10
ཱ་ཙྪ་
50
Do.,
October,
10
2z
:
:
:
:
November,
Do.,
8
3*
December,
Do.,
'Total,..
152
52
10
Secondary.
:
POINTED OUT.
NO. OF WOMEN
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
:
Free from
Disease.
Detained:
Found diseased
REMARKS.
434
20
15
35
.17
15
22
2
18
13
5i
19
10
9
27
15
12
9
2e
13
9
4
19
12
14
7
15
6
9
12
11
1
11
11
a. Syphilis according to the report.
b. 5 of these cases were reported as "Primary Syphilis.'
e. 1 of these women was already detained.
h 2 cases were reported as sore on penis, one case as Primary Syphilis, and another was reported on this way "sores, soft?
i.
>>
2 women were pointed out by one man. j. 7 of these cases returned as "Primary Sy- philis."
"
m. Í case returned as "Primary Syphilis.' n. Of these, 4 were returned as "Primary Sy- philis."
o. 2 of these cases were reported as ulcer, 2 as "Primary Syphilis," and one as soft sore and bubo.
u. I had bubo also and 3 other cases were re- ported as "Primary Syphilis.'
""
v. 3 of these cases were reported as ulcer and 2 as "Primary Syphilis."
y. 3 of these cases were reported as “Primary Syphilis.'
""
z. 1 case reported as "Primary Syphilis," an- other as uleer of penis.
* Reported as "Primary Syphilis.
"
209
131
78
A
TABLE II.
RETURN showing the RESULT of the EXAMINATIONS of the REGISTERED WOMEN stated to have infected men from H.M.'s Army, Navy, and others with Venereal Sores during the Year 1886.
1886.
COMPLAINTS FROM
NATURE OF COMPLAINTS.
Soft Sore.
SYPHILIS.
Primary.
Hard
Chancre.
and
cutaneous
eruptions.
Secondary.
POINTED OUT.
NO. OF WOMEN
RESULT OF
EXAMINATION.
Free from
Disease.
Found diseased
Detained.
REMARKS.
1
16
2
1
1c
3
2
le
lc
...
2
ld
2
1
1
4
2
26
2
2
:
20
11
9
7
5
6
6
10 C = ∞ ∞ -
20
1ƒ
3h
a. Reported as Primary Syphilis.
b. Suffering from abrasion of the os uteri. c. Already detained in hospital.
d. Suffering a little from leucorrhoea.
e. 2 cases were returned as Primary Syphilis, and 1 as ulcer.
f.
Suffering from leucorrhoea.
g. 3 cases were reported as ulcer, and the other one as Primary Syphilis.
h. 2 were already detained in hospital..
i.
1 case reported as Primary Syphilis, and the other as ulcer of penis.
j. 3 of these cases were reported as] Primary Syphilis.
k. Reported as Syphilis.
1. 4 of these cases were reported as Primary Syphilis..
m. 2 returned as Primary Syphilis.
n. Reported as ulcer.
2
...
3
2
1
1
1
1
ld
2
2
26
19
17
0. Already detained.
p. And bubo.
1.
1
1
***
...
10
1
I
2
2
5
16
3
2
:
3
Co
3
N!:
q. 1 man had also contracted bubo.
r. 2 cases were reported as sores, another was returned with a query (?) after the word syphilitic.
s. 1 had also contracted bubo.
la
March,.
Her Majesty's Army,
2a
Do.,
April,
May,
June,
3a
****
Do.j
la
.....
Do.,
2a
Do.,
July,
3e
Do.,
August,
2a
September,
Do.,
4g
Do.,
October,
2i
...
Do.,
November,
20
...
:
January,
Her Majesty's Navy,
4)
3k
6
Do.,
February,
1k
Do.,
April,
51
Do.,
May,
3m
Do.,
July,
la
September,
Do.,
la
...
Do.,
October,
2a
...
December,
Do.,
22
خير
4
1
February,
August,
French Man-of-War,
German Man-of-War,
1n
Spanish Man-of-War,
ip
2s
"}
Do.,
September,
5
March,.
Government Civil Hospital,..
3r
1k
Merchant Vessel,
May,
Do.,
June,
December,
Miscellaneous,..
1
1
1
...
1
1
1
2
1
3
3
Total,.
52
32
5
10
:
57
37
15
:
435
436
NATURE OF COM- PLAINTS.
TABLE III. -Showing the RESULT of the EXAMINATIONS of the REGISTERED WOMEN stated to have conveyed Gonorrhea infection during the Year 1886.
RESULT OF EXAMINATIONS..
1886.
COMPLAINTS FROM
NO. OF WOMEN POINTED
REMARKS.
GONOR-
OUT.
Free from Disease.
RHEA,
Found diseased Detained.
January, February,
Her Majesty's Army,
10
10
Do.,
3
March,
Do.,
10
10
April,
Do.,
5
May,
Do.,
6
93946
2e
3
5
4e
2
June,
Do.,
July,
Do.,
3
August,
Do.,
September,
Do.,
October,
Do.,
November,...
Do.,
4874∞
1
8
6e
4
4
4.
December,....
Do.,
3
3
3
67
67
45
22
January,
Her Majesty's Navy,..
18
18
103
February,
Do.,
6*
6
4
2e
March,
Do.,
4
4
3.
1
April,..
Do.,
10
10
4
May,
Do.,
11
11
6e
June,
Do.,
3
July,
Do.,
2
1
August,
Do.,
2
September,
Do.,
1
October,.
Do.,
1
1
November,....
Do.,
4
4
3
1
December,...
Do.,
5
71
71
42
29
February,
Government Civil Hospital,
1
1
1
August,
Do.,
1
1
October,
Do.,
1
1
3
3
1
2
April,
Merchant Vessel,
1
1
1
May,
Do.,
1
1
August,
German Man-of-War,
3
3e
August,
Spanish Man-of-War,
1
2
October,.
Merchant Vessel,
1
1
November,
Miscellaneous,
2
2
11
11
Co
6
::
10
5
152
.152
94
58
(e) 1 of them was already detained in hospital.
*
1 of these cases was returned as "bala- nitis."
L. P. MARQUES,
Resident Surgeon
437
4
F.
RETURN showing the NUMBER of TIMES in which the WOMEN were examined in WANTSAI during the Year 1886.
1886.
Number of Examin- ations.
Free from
Disease.
Found diseased and sent to the Lock Hospital.
Gonorrhoea.
Soft Sore.
Leucorrhoea.
NATURE OF DISEASE.
SYPHILIS.
Primary.
Secondary.
Hard Chancre.
and cutaneous. eruptions.
Abrasion.
Ulceration of os
Uteri.
Warts.
-
...
1.
:
:
:
...
::
:
In the months of November and December these Women were all examined at the Lock Hospital.
January,.
34
34
February,
40
40
March,
37
37
April,
.43
42
May,
June,
33
32
1
32
32.
July,..
37
37
August,
31
30
1
September,.
33
31
2
October,.
41
40
Total,......
361
355
6
G.
:
L. P. MARQUES,
Visiting Surgeon'
1
::
LOCK HOSPITAL.
RETURN of the RESULT of EXAMINATIONS of WOMEN from UNREGISTERED BROTHELS during the Year 1886.
1886..
No. of Women.
Place of Residence.
NATURE OF DISEASE.
Free from Disease.
Found diseased and detained.
Leucorrhoea.
Ul. of os Uteri.
Gonorrhoea.
Warts.
Soft Sore.
SYPHILIS.
Primary. Secondary.
Hard Chan-
cre.
cut. erup- tion.
2 m
2
1
::
N
:
:
:
5
10:
Co
~
10
January,
4 Second and Wellington Streets,
2
February, March,...
1 Elgin Street,.......
10 D'Aguilar and Graham Streets, Gilman's.
Bazaar, and U On Lane,
5
April,. May,
4
7
Hollywood Road, and Wellington Street, Station Street (Yaumáti), and Hollywood
Road,.
4
June,
July,
10
August,
6
8 Sun Wai Lane, Pottinger Street, Shaukiwán
Station, ....
Temple Street, (Yaumáti), Wellington Street, and Gilman Street, Cheung I Lane,...... Temple Street, (Yaumáti), and Gilman
Bazaar,
September, 5 Second and Temple Streets, Mü Man Lane, October,... 2 Queen's Road Central,...
CO
6
10
5
422
2
3a
:
::
:.
:
2
2
1
1
2
1
34 23
I
::
:.
:
:
:
10
5
3
8
2c
10
5
:.
:བྱུང
:
:
2
:
a. One of them was pointed out by a man some days after her detention in hospital.
b. Condylomata.
c. 1 of them had also ulceration of the os uteri.
d. Eczema, ulceration of the os uteri and gonorrhoea.
No woman from un-registered brothels was sent to the hospital for examination in the months of November and December.
Total,...... 57
32
438
Number of Beds
in Lock Hospital.
TABLE A.
RETURN of the NUMBER of PROSTITUTES, brought under the Provisions of Ordinance No. 10, during the Year 1886.
Number admitted into
Hospital
on Certificates of Resident'
Surgeon.
Number who
submitted
Voluntarily.
Number against whom it was necessary to
proceed by Information before
the . Registrar General.
Total Number
brought under the Provisions
of the Ordinance.
Total Number of Examina- tions made during the Year.
Total Number of Examina- tions made when no Disease was found.
Total Number Discharged from Hospital.
REMARKS.
401
272
57
272
13,425
13,024
414
No. of days
in Month on which Examinations
were held.
Total Number of Examinations made during the Year.
Number admitted
into Hospital.
Total Number of Examinations
made when no
Disease was found.
Examina-
tions are
held daily Sundays & Govern-
ment holi- deys ex- cepted.
13,425
TABLE C.
RETURN of WOMEN examined, and treated in the GOVERNMENT LOCK HOSPITAL, during the Year 1886.
EXAMINATION.
HOSPITAL.
DISCHARGED.
DISEASES.
Number remain-
ing in Hospital,
31st Dec., 1884.
Admitted.
Total treated.
Primary Syphilis, uncomplicated
59
Gonorrhoea
do.
10
274
284
401
13,024
Do. and P. Syphilis combined P. & Secondary do.
63
2
4
8888
P. & Secondary Syphilis & Gonorrhoea
60
60
284
234
63
63
6
6
1
TOTAL.
13
401
414
414
414
Enclosure 3.
Cured.
TOTAL.
In this table are included also the women examined at Wántsai and those examined by the Colonial Surgeon.
REMARKS.
In this table are included also the women examined at Wantsai and those examined by the Colonial Surgeon.
L. P. MARQUES,
Resident Surgeon.
Report of the Government Analyst.
GOVERNMENT CIVIL HOSPITAL,
HONGKONG, 11th June, 1887.
SIR,-I have the honour to forward a statement of the work done in the temporary laboratory of this Hospital during the
year 1886.
2. During only a few months was I able to do any regular analytical work.
3. In November 1885, the Student Apothecary, who had only served about four years of his studentship resigned, and it was not until February 1st, 1886, that a new student entered on his duties. The pharmaceutical work of the department, including the dispensing of all medicines for the Civil Hospital and out-patients of the Police and Civil Services, was in the meanwhile done by me.
4. During the following months I was actively engaged in training the new student, and in attending to the wants of the patients, until August, when, on account of the pressing calls for analy- tical work from the Sanitary Board, a proposal was made by Dr, JORDAN, the Acting Colonial Surgeon, that the dispensing for the Lock Hospital should be done in this Department, and that the Apothecary should take my place in the Civil Hospital pharmacy, so that I might be able to conduct the analysis so urgently required by the Sanitary Authorities. This was sanctioned by the Government; but Mr. DE SOUZA, who had then seen some twenty years service, was compelled, on account of failing health, to retire on pension, very soon after being transferred to this Hospital.
5. The attempts made to work in the Laboratory, during the months of August and September, met with only partial success.
6. It was next proposed that Mr. U. C. DA SILVA, who some years ago had served as dispenser in the Seaman's Hospital, should be temporarily appointed as the successor of Mr. De Souza, and that, as a permanent measure, a qualified Pharmacist should be obtained from England. The Government approved of these suggestions, and Mr. SILVA is still rendering assistance in this Department pending the arrival of the new assistant Apothecary.
7. I have pleasure in reporting that Mr. U I KAI, the new Student Apothecary, is making satis- factory progress with his studies. In November, when I was on the sick list, he was able, for several days with occasional directions from me, to take sole charge of the dispensary.
•
7
439
TOXICOLOGICAL.,
8. There was only one analysis in a suspected case of Opium poisoning. A careful search failed to reveal the presence of any poison.
9. On January 18th some rice said to have been poisoned, was forwarded for examination by the Captain Superintendent of Police, but no deleterious ingredient could be detected.
10. Two cases of mydriatic poisoning were recorded during the year. In both instances, abundant evidence was forthcoming, in the Laboratory, of the presence, in the material sent for analysis, of an alkaloid indistinguishable from the active principle of Datura.
WATER.
11. Thirteen samples of water were analyzed during the year. The majority of these were specially reported on to the Sanitary Board.
12. It would be difficult to find natural waters of greater inorganic or organic purity than the samples derived from Peak wells, and analyzed in this Department last Autumn.
MILK.
13. Thirty-four samples of Milk were analyzed during the year. In most cases the investigations were made with a view of ascertaining the extent of the variation between morning and evening samples of Milk from different sources. This enquiry will have to extend over a long period, and will require a considerable expenditure of time and labour. I propose to reserve the publication of the results of these analysis until the enquiry is completed.
GENERAL.
14. Eleven samples of Opium were examined in May, at the request of the Acting Police Magis- trate, with a view of ascertaining whether or not the specimens were prepared ones within the meaning of the Ordinance.
15. The remainder of the analysis were of minor importance only, and call for no special remarks.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
WM. EDWARD CROW, Government Analyst and Apothecary, Civil Medical Department.
Dr. PH. B. C. AYRES,
Colonial Surgeon and Inspector of Hospitals.
275
No. 14
87.
HONGKONG.
ANNUAL WEATHER REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE OBSERVATORY FOR 1886.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency
the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 4th March, 1887.
༨
ANNUAL WEATHER REPORT FOR 1886.
At the end of January the NE monsoon increased and blew with the force of a whole gale in the China Sea as far south as +8° latitude, at the same time it blew a gale along the southern coast of China and the barometer fell since the 30th of that month. On the night between the 3rd and the 4th of February it blew a whole gale in Hongkong. In March the height of the NE monsoon seems to have been unusually small. The direction of the wind at Victoria Peak was more different from its direction at sea level than is usual during this month, the direction, of course, veering with increasing height, and the lower level of the clouds was nearly every day below 2000 feet. Fog prevailed, the clouds frequently sinking to sea level. At the same time the temperature fell less than half the usual amount with increasing elevation in the air. This may perhaps throw some light on the fact that explorers in certain tropical regions have attributed so very small dimensions to the NE monsoon.
The amount of rain during the summer fell short of the usual quantity during every month except July, when the excess was due to the heavy thunderstorms on the 15th. This is very striking on comparing the monthly rainfall at Stone Cutters' Island with the mean of nine years' rainfall (1878- 1886 incl.):-
Month.
Rainfall.
Mean.
1886.
Excess above mean.
January,
0.80
2.05
+ 1.25
February,
1.71
1.40
-
0.31
March,
3.65
1.26
2.39
April,
6.63
3.77
2.86
May,
...10.66
2.59
Ma
8.07.
June,
.....13.66
10.02
M
3.64
July,
...16.83
28.62
+11.79
August,
....17.50
8.12
9.38
September,
9.73.
3.28
6.45
October,....
5.45
3.11
2.34
November,
1.10.
0.00
A
1.10
December,
0.43
1.16
+ 0.73
Year,......
-88.15
65.38
-22.77
At the Observatory the cisterns of the barograph and the standard barometer are placed 110 feet above Mean Sea Level. The bulbs of the thermometers are 109. feet above Mean Sea Level and 4 feet above the ground except the terrestrial radiation thermometer, which is about one inch above the ground. The rim of the pluviograph, which is 114 inches in diameter, is placed 106 feet above Mean Sea Level and 21 inches above the ground. The cups of the anemograph are 150 feet above Mean Sea Level and 45 feet above the ground.
At Victoria Peak the instruments, except the radiation thermometers and the rain-gauge, are placed in the look-out. The cistern of the barometer is 1816 feet above Mean Sea Level. The bulbs of the thermometers are about 4 feet above the floor, except the maximum thermometer, which is a few inches higher. The radiation thermometers are placed at the same height above the ground as at the Obser- vatory. The rim of the rain-gauge is 8 inches in diameter and is one foot above the ground.
At Stone Cutters' Island the rim of the rain-gauge is 8 inches in diameter and is placed 2 feet 4 inches above the ground and about 15 feet above Sea Level.
The Monthly Weather Reports are arranged as follows:-
Table I exhibits the hourly readings of the barometer reduced to 32°.0 Fahrenheit, but not to sea level, as measured (at two minutes to the hour named) from the barograms.
276
Table II exhibits the hourly readings of the temperature of the air round the Observatory as determined by aid of the rotating dry bulb thermometer and the thermograms (at two minutes past the hour named), and also the extreme temperatures during the day.
Table III exhibits the hourly readings of the temperature of evaporation round the observatory as determined by aid of the rotating damp bulb thermometer and the thermograms (at two minutes past the hour named), and also the solar radiation maximum (black bulb) and terrestrial radiation (grass- minimum) temperatures, read at 10 p. and entered for the same day.
The thermometers are rotated round a nearly horizontal axis (which is kept about 4 feet above the ground) the observer generally walking along facing the wind, so that the bulbs describe screws of small pitch. The diameter of the screw described by the damp is larger than that described by the dry bulb. These observations are generally made every hour during the day and as often as possible during the night.
Table IV exhibits the mean relative humidity in percentage of saturation (the humidity of air saturated with moisture being 100) and mean tension of aqueous vapour present in the air expressed in inches of mercury, for every hour in the day and for every day in the month, calculated by aid of Blanford's tables from the data exhibited in Tables II and III.
Table V exhibits the duration of sun-shine expressed in hours as registered by aid of the sun-shine recorder from half an hour before to half an hour after the hour (true time) named.
Table VI exhibits the amount of rain expressed in inches registered from half an hour before to half an hour after the hour named.
The
Table VII exhibits, for every hour in the day, the velocity of the wind and its direction in numbers (8=E, 16=S, 24—W, 32 —N) as measured from the anemograms. The velocity is the number of miles traversed by the wind, from half an hour before to half an hour after the hour named. direction is read off at the hour, except when the wind is very light and changeable, when the average direction during the hour is estimated, taking into account the velocity from different quarters. The direction is not noted when the velocity is below 1.5 miles an hour.
Table VIII exhibits, for every hour in the day, the mean velocity of the wind reduced to 4 and also to 2 directions, as well as the mean direction of the wind :-
The number of miles traversed by winds from directions 31, 32 and 1 and half the number of miles from 30 and 2 are termed (N). The number of miles from 3, 4 and 5 and half the number of miles from 2 and 6 are termed (NE), etc. We have then :-
N=(N)+(NE) cos 45° + (NW) cos 45°. E=(E)+(NE) cos 45° + (SE) cos 45°.
which are the components exhibited in this table.
etc
Table IX exhibits the direction (to two points) and force (0-12) of the wind at Victoria Peak, and sea disturbance (0-9) at Cape d'Aguilar.
Table X exhibits the readings of the barometer reduced to 32°.0 Fahrenheit, but not to sea level, and of the thermometers at Victoria Peak.
Table XI exhibits the relative humidity and tension of vapour at 10 a., 4 p. and 10 p. daily at the Observatory and at Victoria Peak.
Table XII exhibits the amount (0-10), name and direction whence coming, of the clouds. Where the names of upper and lower clouds are given, but only one direction, this refers to the lower clouds. Table XIII exhibits the amount of rain measured at 10 a. and entered to preceding day at different stations and the duration of precipitation at the Observatory.
The following Annual Report is arranged as follows:
Table I exhibits the mean height of the barometer at the Observatory and at the Peak expressed in inches, the latter being the mean of the 10 a., 4 p. and 10 p. observations, and the excess of the hourly values at the Observatory above the mean.
The mean diurnal range in the different months came out as follows: January, 0.111, February, 0.118, March, 0.094, April, 0.087, May, 0.086, June, 0.069, July, 0.067, August, 0.073, September, 0.082, October, 0.091, November, 0.112, December, 0.110. The average range was 0.092 or 0.004 larger than in the two previous years. The mean tension of aqueous vapour was smaller this year than during the previous years, and both these circumstances were no doubt due to the scarcity of rain.
The height of the rock on which the look-out at Victoria Peak is placed has been calculated from the mean of the barometric observations made in 1886 to be 1812 feet, and from the mean of all those made during the past three years to be 1813 feet, adopting for the first year the temperatures observed in Stevenson's screen reduced to the true air-temperature, which were as follows: January 1884, 610.5, February, 56°.7, March, 61°.5, April, 66°.5, May, 73°.4, June, 78°.7, July, 81°.5, August, 81°.3, September, 80°.4, October, 76°.6, November, 67°.2, December, 59°.9. Year, 1884, 70°.4.
Table II exhibits the mean temperature in degrees Fahrenheit at the Observatory and at the Peak, the latter being the mean of the 10 a., 10 p., maximum and minimum temperatures, and the excess of the hourly values at the Observatory above the mean. The hottest part of the day is between 1p. and
277
2 p. and the coldest about 6 a., but the lowest temperature occurs a little earlier in summer than in winter. When the wind calms down after sunset the existence of a secondary maximum of temperature may occasionally be traced.
The daily range of temperature is smaller in summer than in winter both owing to the greater amount of clouds and to the circumstance that the force of the wind is so small during the night in the former season. From table XVIII it is seen that the mean range was exactly the same at the Observatory as at the Peak.
The monthly extremes of temperature are exhibited in Table XVI and XVII. The ranges are about twice as great in winter as in summer.
The mean diurnal variability of temperature or the mean of the changes of mean daily temperature from day to day, irrespective of sign, during each month of 1885 was as follows: January, 20.37, February, 20.10, March, 20.32, April, 20.30, May, 1°.44, June, 1°.14, July, 1°.21, August, 1°.25, September, 0°.93, October, 1°.28, November, 20.18, December, 2°.23. Year, 1885, 10.73.
The mean diurnal variability of temperature in 1886 was as follows: January, 10.85, February, 20.15, March, 2°.86, April, 1°.63, May, 1°.63, June, 1°.59, July, 0°.98, August, 0°.92, September, 0°.81, October, 1°.13, November, 1°.49, December, 1°.64. Year, 1886, 1°.56.
It is seen from these figures that the temperature is twice as changeable in winter as in summer. Such absence of abrupt changes of temperature indicates in a temperate or arctic climate circumstances favourable to the health of the inhabitants but according to Dr. BORIUS, the late distinguished climat- ologist, great constancy of temperature during the tropical summer may be considered the reverse of favourable.
Table III exhibits the relative humidity in percentage of saturation at the Observatory and at the Peak, the latter being the mean of the 10 a., 4 p. and 10 p. values, and the excess of the hourly values above the mean at the Observatory. The air is farthest from saturation about 1 p. and nearest saturation about midnight. The average relative humidity is registered at 8 a. and 6p. The diurnal variation is greatest during the last month of the year when the air is comparatively dry.
Table IV exhibits the tension of vapour in inches of mercury at the Observatory and at the Peak, the latter being the mean of observations made at 10 a., 4 p. and 10 p., and the excess of the hourly values above the mean at the Observatory. The daily variation is small along the coast of China especially in summer but during the past year it was much greater than in 1885 and this was no doubt owing to the scarcity of rain. There was least vapour in the air at about 11 a. and most at 10 p. The monthly ranges in vapour tension (at 10 a., 4p. and 10 p. only) are exhibited in Tables XVI and XVII. They were twice as great in winter as in summer.
.
Table V exhibits the total number of hours of bright sunshine. The minimum occurred in February and the maximum in November. The duration of sunshine in percentage of possible duration was obtained as explained in last year's report.
Table VI exhibits the total hourly rainfall and Table VII, the number of hours during which rain was registered. It rains more often at sunrise than at sunset.
The approximate hourly intensity of the rainfall i.e. the hourly rainfall divided with the number of hours, during portion of which it rained, or heavy dew fell, was calculated from the Means and Totals in Tables VI and VII and shows, that the rain is heaviest shortly after noon and lightest about midnight :-
1 a. 0:048
7 a. 0.065
2. .072
8
.071
1 p. 0.121 2
.121
7 p. 0.038 8 .134.
""
""
3
.059
9
.100
3
.205
9
.169
""
4
.079
10
.105
4
.143
10
.064
""
""
""
5
.073
11
.112
""
6
.067
Noon .098
56
.142
11
.056
"9
""
6
.057
Midt. .071
""
"}
The true mean hourly intensity was obtained from the data in Table XI and shows, that the rain was heaviest in July and lightest in February and November :-
January, 0.022, February, 0.012, March, 0.036, April, 0.057, May, 0.042, June, 0.073, July, 0.174, August, 0.144, September, 0.136, October, 0.108, November, 0.012, December, 0.033. Year, 0.074.
The rain was much lighter in the past year than in the two previous years, the rainfall being much smaller while its duration was about the same.
Table VIII exhibits the velocity of the wind expressed in miles per hour and the excess of the hourly values above the mean at the Observatory. The velocity at the Peak is computed from the force estimated there at 10 a., 4 p. and 10 p. The wind was strongest at both stations in February and lightest in September. The daily variation was explained in last year's report.
Table IX exhibits the mean direction of the wind at the Observatory and at the Peak. The excess of the hourly direction at the Observatory above the mean, expressed in degrees, is counted from North through East towards South. The results of the discussion of previous years' observations are confirmed. The daily variation was greatest in September. The two mean directions have been
278
obtained by simply taking the averages of the monthly directions in degrees without regard to force. This is perhaps, everything considered, the best method in this case and the two annual means direc- tions for 1885 in last year's report ought therefore to be altered to E 10° S and E 29° S.
In order to further elucidate the diurnal variation in force and direction of the wind in this region,—a subject of great importance to the shipping, the mean directions and forces in 1885. at Victoria Peak and South Cape, Formosa, have been calculated. The observations at the latter station are made carefully by the staff of the lighthouse. The observers stand about 150 feet above sea level, but as they are now and then guided in their estimations by the amount of sail carried by such vessels as happen to pass, the figures may be taken to represent the force of the wind at a lower level.
MEAN DIRECTION and FORCE of WIND at VICTORIA PEAK in 1885.
Month.
1885.
7 a.
10 a.
1 p.
4 p.
7 p.
10 p.
Direction Force. Direction Force. Direction Force. Direction Force. Direction Force. Direction Force.
January,
E
4.2
E 5° N
4.3
E 1° N
4.1
E 1° N
4.1
E 5° N
4.2
E 5° N
4.3
February,
E 10° N
4.6
E 11° N
4.6
E 13° N
4.3
E 18° N
4.2
E 21° N
4.3
E 26° N
4.4
March,
E 13° S
4.3
E 13° S
4.3
E 14° S
4.0
E 16° S
3.9
E 15° S
4.2
E 15° S
4.2
April,
E 27° S
4.4
E 35° S
4.4
E 38° S
4.5
E 38° S
4.3.
E 38° S
4.4
E 43° S
4.5
May,
S 33° E
4.3
S 28° E
4.3
S 29° E
4.4
$ 21° E
4.3
$ 22° E
4.4
$ 18° E
4.5
June,
S 8o E
4.6
S 13° E
4.3
S 16° E
4.4
S 15° E
4.5
S 18° E
4.6
$ 20° E
4.7.
July,
S 30° W
4.4
S 30° W
4.4
S 28° W
4.4
S 18° W
4.3
S 19° W
4.5
S.19° W
4.6
August,
S 18° E
4.3
S 15° E
4.4
S 17° E
4.3
S 11° E
4.5
S 14° E
4.6
$ 21° E
4.6
September,
E 11° S
3.9
E 7° S
3.9
E 35° S
4.1
E 32° S
4.0
E 31° S
4.1
E 32° S
4.2.
October,
E 12° N
4.6
E 11° N
4.7
E 5° N
4.5
E 1° S
4.4
E 5° N
4.2
E 6° N
4.3
November,
E 20° N
4.2
E 18° N
4.3
E 19° N
4.0
E 23° N
3.9
E 18° N
3.9
E 20° N
3.9
December,
E 7° N
4.5
E 6° N
4.5
E 2° N
4.3
E 6° N
4.2
E 8° N
4.3
E 11° N
4.5
Year,...... E 28° S
4.4
E 28° S
4.4
E 31° S
4.3
E 31° S
4.2
E 29° S
4.3
E 28° S
4.4
January,..
February,
March,
April,
May,
June,
July,
August,
September,
October,
November, December,
January,. February,
March,
April,
May,
June,
July,
August,
September,
October,
November,
December,
1885.
Year,
1885.
MEAN DIRECTION of WIND at SOUTH CAPE, Formosa, in 1885.
|
E 26° N | E 23° N
3 a.
6 a.
9 a.
Noon.
3 p.
6 p..
9 p.
Midt.
Mean.
N 45° E
N 43° E
N 44° E
N 46° E
N 42° E
N 42° E
N 52° E
N 53° E
N 38° E
N 42° E
N 42° E
N 40° E
N 44° E N 44° E N 46° E
N 42° E N 44° E | N 45° E N 39° EN 40° E
N 43° E
N 46° E
N 44° E
N 42o E
N 45° E
N 40° E
N 41° E
E 31° N
E 26° N
|
E 26° NE 9° N N 9°W N 3° W
N 25° W N 57° W E 27° N E 7° N E 24° S E 23° S W 4° NW 2° SW 2° N W 2° NW W 9° NW 32° N ❘ W 25° NW 12° N N 19° W N 8°WN 6° W
E 27° N
N¡16° W
W
N 27° W
N 50° W
N 42° E
N 43°
N 45° E
N 43° E
N 43o E
N 42o E
N 45° E N 43° EN 43° E
N 43° E
N 44° E
N 45° E
N 45° E
|
N 43° E
N 44° EN 42° E
E 20° N | E 23° N N 62° W N 41° W N 44° W | N 32° W. S W 18° S S E 15° N E 42° S
3° SW 9° SW 2° N W 7° N W 3° SW 4° N W 8° SW 10° NW 10° N N.43° W N 29° W N 29° W ❘ N 26° W
N 42o E ❘ N 43o E N 43° E N 45° E N 45° E N 45° E N 45° E N 42o E N 42o E ❘ N 43o E N 43° E
N 24° E N 26° E N 29° E N 27° EN 22° E N.20° E N 20° E N 22° E N 26° E
MEAN FORCE of WIND at SOUTH Cape, Formosa, in 1885.
3 a.
6 a.
9 a.
Noon.
3 P..
6 p.
9 p.
Midt.
Mean.
3.1
3.2
3.0
2.9
1.2.6
2.6
2.7
3.0
2.9
4.0
4.0
4.0
3.7
3.4
3.3
3.4
3.7
3.7
3.1
3.2
3.0
2.8
2.8
2.7
2.8
3.1
2.9
2.8
2.5
2.6
2.5
2.2
2.3
2.3
2.6
2.5
2.6
2.6
2.7
2,8
2.6
2.5
2.1
2.5
2.6
2:3
2.4
2.2
2,2
2.5
2.1
2.0
2.2
2.2
2.8
2.9
2.8
2.8
2.9
'3.0
2.7
2.8
2.8
2.2
2.3
2.5
2.5
2.4
2.2
1.9
2.0
2.2
2.4
2.4
2.4
2.3
2.3
2.3
2.3
2.3
2.3
3.5
3.6
4.1
3.9
3.7
3.6
3.7
3.7
3.7
4.0
3.9
4.4
4.4
4.1
3.8
3.8
4.1
4.1
3.7
3.6
3.7
3.7
3.6
3.5
3.5
3.7
3.6
Year,..
3.0
3.1
3.1
3.0
2.9
2.8
2.8
3.0
3.0
279
At the height of Victoria Peak the direction of the wind is nearly constant throughout the day. Only a slight tendency to veer during the daytime can perhaps be traced. Above this altitude as remarked in last year's report there is possibly a slight tendency to variation in the opposite direction. The force of the wind is likewise very constant. It seems to be rather stronger at night than in the day time but this cannot be decided as yet with certainty.
In Southern Formosa the wind comes from NE without change in winter. This is the mean direction either diurnal or annual from October till March incl. On the contrary the direction appears to be very changeable in summer. With regard to the diurnal variation in the force the result published last year is confirmed. The maximum wind-force appears to be registered about sunrise and the minimum about sunset, but the variation is very small. The diurnal variation in the direction is scarcely perceptible but from the mean of the twelve months it would even appear as if the wind were backing a little during the day time, but the veering of the wind during the day time is very prominent in summer.
Table X exhibits the total distance traversed by, as well as the duration and average velocity of winds from bi-quadrantal points. The velocity is a maximum for E winds but there is slight second- ary maximum for SW winds. The SW monsoon was not so strong as in 1885, which perhaps accounts for the scarcity of rain.
Table XI exhibits the rainfall measured at 10 a. and entered to preceding day. Each day on which not less than 0.01 inches was measured, is counted. The rainfall increases quickly with the height at least up to 2000 feet notwithstanding the far greater force of the wind up there. We have no means of observing what takes place at a still higher level but Indian Meteorologists have ascertained that the rain reaches a maximum somewhere about 4000 feet above the level of the sea in India.
Table XII exhibits particulars concerning different phenomena. Fog occurred frequently in March. Electric phenomena prevailed in August but the thunderstorms were not so violent as in 1885. Unusual visibility of distant objects was most noticeable in August. Dew was frequent during the early summer. Rainbows were seen oftener than usual owing to the lightness of the rains. Solar halos and coronas were most frequent in August.
Table XIII shows the frequency of clouds of different forms from observations made 8 times a day. The number of days on which clouds were observed to be below 2000 feet was as follows:- January, 12, February, 16, March, 28, April, 25, May, 18, June, 16, July, 22, August, 15, September, 3, October, 5, November, 0, December, 3. The number of days on which they were observed to be below 1000 feet was as follows:-January, 3, February, 10, March, 21, April, 17, May, 7, June, 3, July, 5, August, 0, September, 0, October, 0, November, 0, December, 2.
The mean direction of the clouds (whence coming) was as follows:-
1886.
January,
Lower.
ESE
Upper.
Cirrus.
WSW
February,
E by S
W
March,
SE
W by S
April,
ESE by S
W by S
May,..
SE by S
W by N
W NW by W
June,
S
NNE
July,
S by E
NE by E
ENE
August,
SW by S
NE
NNE
September,
ENE
NW by W
W by S
October,
E
WSW
NW
November,
ENE
WSW
WSW
December,
ENE
W by S
Table XIV exhibits the amount of cloud, which is greatest in the morning and least in the evening as well as greatest in February and least in December.
Table XV exhibits the amount (0-9) of sea-disturbance, which is only about half as great in summer as in winter.
Table XVI and XVII exhibit the extremes of some of the meteorological elements.
Table XVIII exhibits the mean of the readings of the black bulb maximum thermometers in vacuo and the excess above the mean maximum air-temperatures, the average of the number of degrees by which the minimum air-temperature exceeded that indicated by a minimum thermometer freely exposed with its bulb one inch above the grass, the average weight of the aqueous vapour in the air and the diurnal range of temperature.
i
Date.
1886.
January.
February.
280
During the past year the indications of a bright bulb solar radiation maximum thermometer in vacuo have been registered daily at 10 p. The readings are exhibited below. This thermometer was compared at Kew with the readings of the black bulb in vacuo and with the maximum air-temperature. The results of the comparisons, about 360 in number, were kindly communicated to me by Mr. WHIPPLE, the Director of the Kew Observatory. Compared to the black bulb in vacuo the bright bulb reads possibly a little higher in Hongkong but the results in both places are really alike within the probable error of such observations. At Kew it was compared with the maximum temperature in the thermograph-screen and at Hongkong with the same but corrected by aid of eye-observations of thermometers rotated hourly. At Hongkong the bright-bulb thermometer readings exceed the air- temperature by a larger amount than at Kew owing to the smaller daily range of temperature. In England maximum air-temperature corresponding to a certain mean daily temperature is much greater than within the tropics.
BRIGHT BULB SOLAR RADIATION MAXIMUM THERMOMETER COMPARISONS.
Mean Difference.
Black Bulb.
Mean Difference.
Air Max.
Kew.
Hongkong.
Kew.
Hongkong.
80°
-18°
90°
-24°
100°
-28°
26°
110°
-30°
-31°
120°
-35°
-32°
130°
-36°
-34°
140°
-35°
1111888
60°
+19°
+18°
7.0°
+19°
+21°
80°
+18°
+ 22°
March.
SOLAR RADIATION BRIGHT BULB MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE IN 1886.
April.
May.
June.
July.
August.
September.
O
о
о
O
O
1,
88.7 78.7 88.9
98.4
95.3
2,
86.7 62.3
88.3 1:00.6
97.6
3,
88.3 60.1
92.3 91.8
4,
86.4
58.1
82.8 99.4
5,
84.9
61.7
6,
77.4
7,
91.1
76.7
8,
9,
10,
11,
92.4
62.0
12,
79.6
71.5
13,
84.6 72.6
14,
91.2
80.8
15,
80.7
70.1
90.6 87.8
103.7:
107.6
92.9 109.3 113.6 110.4 90.3 111.0 109.3 108.1 106.1 94.3 86.1 92.8 110.6 108.7 110.6 109.1 107.7 95.9 86.5 105.8 97.3 110.6 112.2 110.4 94.0 97.4 89.6 64.7 102.7 104.8 107.6 106.9 114.3 110.6 106.0 99.1 90.4 83.9 99.0 101.7 108.1 109.8 117.6 107.9 103.7 102.2 92.7 84.3 98.9 100.9 105.7 109.0 110.7 104.9 101.6 99.1 91.1 90.2 78.9 89.3 98.3
97.7 105.2 87.3 114.3 109.1 103.3 95.0 86.7 102.3 70.7 90.7 94.1 96.8 110.1 97.8 110.5 93.6 103.4 97.4 86.5
90.6 57.7 77.8 101.3 77.8 111.2 112.6 110.8. 106.0 107.7 100.0 87.3 98.7 94.4 102.1 108.2 110.7 105.6 108.8 96.7 89.4 86.8 103.9 99.8 106.8 110.12 110.7 106.2 94.9 83.1 98.7 78.8 104.3 83.7 110.3 107.3 111.8 102.2 82.8 79.3 110.0 92.7 104.6 109.8 110.2 103.9
81.2 105.8 107.6 100.3 98.3
101.2
93.8 86.8
93.5
89.8
87.1
96.1
72,2
93.4
91.9
86.3
16,
76.3
70.3
89.7 73.4
107.5
109.2
90.3
99.8
111.9 103.7
96.1 84.6
17.
80.7
59.5
93.6 73.8
108:7 109.8
86.6
106.7
!
113.0 102.0
98.9 83.6
18,
79.7
57.2
91.4 91.2 108.2 105.8
19,
85.6
70.9
94.3 92.3 108.3
20,
80.2
78.8
21,
68.8 71.8
22,
76.3
81.4
23,
92.2
83.2
24,
66.7 73.4
25,
65.8 76.1
26,
27,
69.8
28,
67.2
29,
55.6
30,
78.3
31,
77.8
...
82.6 110.6 112.6 102.3 94.3 102.8 109.3 112.9 104.7 91.6 88.4 91.5 83.7 110.5 106.6 106.1 113.2 106:6 107.8 96.0 89.8 95.8 92.7 109.1 109.3 105.2 110.1 109.8 107.8 100.4 68.7 93.9 79.8 87.7 106.3 106.6 110:8 113.3 99.6 93.6 90.3
108.0 110.1 110.3 108.7 112.4 101.4 65.2 91.6 109.6 110.7 107.9 111.3 103.3 99.8 64.7 97.2 106.1 107.3 110.8 105.6 102.7 105.21 99.4 86.7 63.1 88.7 76.0 91.6 103.5 111.1 109.1 79.4 103.8 104.3 96.5 85.6
80.6 69.3 94.6 96.4 110.5 108.6 103.3
102.2 99.3 90.6 84.8 77.7 83.8 72.7 | 102.4 112.9 112.7 106.0 101.8 101.3 94.2 85.2 82.0 94.2 107.7 107.3 109.3 107.7 102.7 107.2 101.8 90.2 102.3 111.2 108.3 108.6 110.4 102.0 98.3 89.7 88.6
97.7
109.9 107.9
96.3 90.7
96.3 58.9
91.3
76.8
89.8 87.4
82.2
69.6
97.8
86.7
Mean,......
Below Black Bulb,
Above Air Max.,..
80.6 72.2 85.7 91.2
31.4 26.1 31.5 30.6
18.5 15.8 20.0 18.9
102:3
104.8
35.5 33.8
22.7 21.5
104.6 108.7
33.5 36.7
20.4 23.2
107.6 103.2 96.1 84.5
23.3 23.0 23.1
36.3 35.3 36.4 32.6
20.3
October.
November.
December.
281
Table XVIII exhibits also the height to which one must ascend in order to have the monthly mean temperature lowered one degree. The figures have been obtained from the data in Table II. Of course the fall of temperature within some ten or twenty feet of the ground is much greater especially on a hot day, but the effect of this is eliminated by observing the temperature at the same height above ground at both the upper and the lower station. The results obtained for each month during the past three years are exhibited below. The results for 1884 have been re-computed by aid of the true air-temperatures given above. It is seen that the height varies from about 200 to about 700 feet, but of course the results in individual instances vary to a somewhat greater extent, and this must often make the true astronomical refraction different from that obtained from the tables. Moreover the temperatures adopted in the construction of the tables may have been very different from the true air-temperatures and when subsequently these tables are used in other places to clear the observations from the effects of refraction, it is very doubtful whether the thermometers are exposed in exactly the same way as where the tables were constructed and even so the process is not strictly accurate if the true air-temperature is not exactly determined. It would therefore be of importance to have the rotating thermometer introduced in astronomical observatories. This instrument is particularly well adapted for occasionally determining the temperature during the night. No account is taken of the effect of the barometric gradient in the neighbourhood, which tends to make the value of the re- fraction different in different azimuths. The rates at which the temperature falls with increasing height in a cyclone and in an anticyclone are different. For these reasons the refraction is one of the most uncertain elements in practical astronomy.
T
January, February,
March,
April,
May, June, July,..........
August,
·
September,
October,
November,
December,
•
Mean,
"
1884.
1885.
1886.
Mean.
.280
224
299
268
.289
251
294
278
.533
397
656
529
.437
416
406
420
.341
275
294
303
..271
275
258
268
...251
294
267
271
.255
328
280
288
.....262
310
280
284
.
.258
294
280
277
271
284
234
263
258
322
222
267
...309
306
314
310
The speed with which the temperature falls on ascending in the atmosphere is seen to be a function of the humidity. The change is much smaller in damp than in dry weather.
TABLE I.
Mean Height of the Barometer at the Observatory and at the Peak for each month in the Year 1886, and Mean Diurnal Variation at the Observatory.
282
Mean.
Month.
1 a.
2 a.
3 a.
4 a.
5 a.
6 a.
7 a.
8 a.
9 8. 10 a.
11 a. Noon.
1 p.
2 p.
3 p.
4 p.
5 p.
6 p.
7 p. 8 p.
9 p. 10 p.
11 p. Midt.
Observ.
atory.
Peak.
January,...
+.011 +.002
-.005 -.011
February,
+.012 +.002
..005 -.011
March,
+.008 .006 ..021
..028
-.011 .000 +.016 +.036 -.009 +.003 +.022 +.039 -.008.011 +.035 -.023
+.053 +.057 +.053 +.058
+.046 +.051
April,
+.003 .011
-.023
..023
-.014
-.005 +.012 .029
.040 +.044
May,
-.001
.013
..018
-.016
-.009 +.006
June,
+.003 .008
.013
..015
-.011 +.002
.021 +.033 +015 +.023 +.030 +.030
+.043 +.044
+.047 +.020 +.047 +.024 +.043 +.024 +.037 +.023 +.037 +.026
-.016 -.038
011 -.037
.002
+.001
.023
-.054 -.054 -.054 -.060 -.039 .043
-.045
-.034
.053
.041 .029
.041
-.020
-.028
-.002 +.010.016
-.020
.006
.002
+.007 +.014 .015 +.024
.019
+.017
.016 | 30.040 28.245
.014 30.068 +.022 +.016| 29.954
28.255
28.192
.019
..032
-,043
.041
-.031
.018 .001
+.014 +.022
.023 +.016| 29.845
28.111
-.012 +.007
.029 .042
-.042
-.035
..026
009
+.004 .015
+.014 +.005| 29.801
28.093
+.026 +.016
+.003
-.013
.026
-4038
-.039
-.032
.018
002
+.010 +.025
+.027 +.017 29.677
27.989
July,
+.003 .008
August,
+.002 .010
September,.
+.001 .008
..013 ..015
.019
..018
..015 -.017
October,
..001
-.012
.020 -.021
November,
December,
+.004
-.006
+.014 +.004
-.009 ..010 ..003 -.006
.015 .004
-.004 -.013
-.011 .001
.014 .000
-.003 +.012 -.005 +.007
+.005 +.016
.025 .029
.027 +.015
+.001
.013
..026 -.036
-.038 -.030
.009 +.021
+.030 +.033
+.028 +.017
+.001 -.016
..028 -:039
.040 -.034
+.015 +.030
+.037 +.038
+.031 +.014
.007 -.025
..039 ..044
+.017 +.034
+.045 +.045
+.033 +.012
.012 -.033
-.044 -.046
+.031 +.045 +,057 +.053 +.023 +.039 +.051 +.050
+.032 +.006
+.038 +.010
.024 -.045 .026 -.048
-.055 ..054
-.058 -.059
.041 -.029 -.040-030 -.045 -.033
047
015 +.003
..021
-.016 .003 -.014 +.008 -.014 .003 032-015 +.001
.000
+.017 +.030 +.017+.027 +.021 +.025 .020 +.024
+.015 +.019 +.011 +.019
+.027 +.016| 29.670 +.027+.019 29.642 +.022 +.015| 29.738 +.023 +.016 | 29.874 +.018 +.011 | 30.026 +.019.014 30.086
27.986
27.956
28.039
28.152
28.270
28.290
Means,
+.005-006 -014-016
011+.001 +.016 +.032 +.042 +.044 +.036 +.017
-.007 —,027 -040 -.046 043 -.032 -.019
.000 +.013+.022 +.021 .015 29.868 28.131
TABLE II.
Mean Temperature at the Observatory and at the Peak for each Month in the Year 1886, and Mean Diurnal Variation at the Observatory.
Mean.
Month.
1 a.
2 a.
3 a.
4 a.
5 8. 6 a. 78.
8 a.
9 a. 10 a. 11 a. Noon. 1 p.
2 p. 3 p. 4 p.
4 p.
5 p. 6 p.
5 p. 6 p. 7 p. 8 p. 9 p. 10 p. 11 p. Midt.
Observ-
Peak.
atory.
January,
February,
-0.9
March,
April,
May,
June,
1.2 1.4
1.5
- 1.6
July,
—
1.3
1.4 -1.4 -1.7
August,
-1.4
September,
2.2
October,
November,
December,
―
-1.2 -1.6 -1.9 -1.9 -2.1 -2.2 -1.6 -0.6 +0.6 +1.4 +1.9 +2.3 +2.6 +2.4 +2.0 +1.3 +0.4 0.0 0.0 -0.1 -0.3 -0.6 -1.0 -0.8 -0.9 1.2 1.3 1.5 -1.5 1.6 1.1 -0.4 +0.5 +0.9 +1.5 +1.7 +1.8 +1.6 +1.4 +1.0 +0.4 +0.2 +0.2 +0.2 -0.9 1.3 -1.4 1.5 1.8 -1.7 1.7 -1.1 -0.2 +0.8 +1.2 +2.0 +2.4 +2.1 +1.9 +1.6 +0.9 −0.1 -0.5 -0.5 -0.3 -0.7 0.9 -1.0 -1.2 1.2 -1.4 -1.1 -0.4 +0.3 +0.9 +1.5 +1.4 +1.5 +1.5 +1.4 +1.0 +0.5 +0.1 -0.1 -0.2-0.2
1.4 1.5 1.7 -2.0 -2.1 -2.0 -1.2 -0.3 +0.7 +1.2 +1.7 +2.6 +2.7 +2.5 +2.4 +1.8 +1.1 +0.4 ·0.3 -0.5 -0.6 - 1.6 -1.5 -0.7 +0.2 +0.7 +1.3 +1.4 +1.5 +2.0 +1.9 +1.8 +1.2 +0.9 +0.4 - 1.8 -1.0 -0.1 +0.6 +1.1 +1.6 +2.0 +2.3 +2.3 +2.1 +1.6 +1.1 +0.5 0.2 -1.7 - 1.6 - 1.6 - 1.9 -1.9 1.9 -1.2 -0.2 +1.0 +1.9 +2.3 +2.3 +2.4 +2.7 +2.7 +2.4 +1.3 +0.3 -0.5 -0.8 -2.6 -2.6 -2.7 -2.7 -2.4 -1.8 0.7 +0.9 +2.2 +2.6 +3.4 +3.6 +3.7 +3.5 +2.7 +1.6 +0.5 -0.2 -0.6 -1.4 -1.5 1.8 -2.0 -2.1 -2.1 -1.5 −0.3 +0.4 +1.5 +1.9 +2.5 +2.7 +2.7 +2.5 +2.0 +1.2 +0.1 -0.3 -0.6 - 1.3 -2.8 -2.8 -2.7 1.7 -2.1 -2.5 -1.3 +0.1 +1.3 +2.4 +3.0 +3.2 +3.2 +2.9 +2.3 +1.3 +0.6 +0.3 -0.1 -1.4 1.8 -2.0 -2.2 −2.5 −2.5 −2.8 −1.6 -0.1 +1.4 +2.3 +3.0 +3.5 +3.6 +3.1 +2.3 +1.3 +0.5 +0.1 -0.2
58.7
53.0
0.0 -0.1 -0.2
53.6
47.8
J
-0.4
0.3
0.3 -0.5 -0.6
0.4
62.0
59.4
69.4
65.2
-0.6 -0.8 0.9
75.7
69.9
-0.3 -0.7 -0.7 -0.8 -0.9 -0.6
1.0
79.8
73.2
-0.9
0.9
1.1 1.2
80.6
74.2
1.2
1.1 1.2 1.4
1.4
1.6
81.2
75.1
1.8
2.0
79.7
73.6
·0.8
1.0 1.2 1.5
76.8
70.7
-0.4
0.5
0.7
1.1
69.0
61.7
-0.3 -0.6 -1.0
- 1.1
59.8
52.1
Means,
−1.2 −1.5 −1.7 -1.9 -2.0-2.0 -1.6 -0.7 +0.3 +1:2 +1.8 +2.3 +2.5 +2.5 +2.4 +1.9 +1.1 +0.3 −0.1 −0.4 -0.5 -0.7 -0.9 −1.1
70.5
64.7
TABLE III.
Mean Humidity at the Observatory and at the Peak for each Month in the Year 1886, and Mean Diurnal Variation at the Observatory.
Month.
1 a. 2 a.
3 a.
4. a. 5 a.
6 a. 7 a.
8 a. 9 a. 10 a. 11 a. Noon. 1 p. 2 p. 3 p. 4 p. 5 p. 6 p. 7 p. 8 p. 9 p. 10 p. 11 p. Midt.
Mean.
Observ-
Peak.
atory.
January,
February,
+
March,
April,
May,
+4
June,
+5 +4 +3 +3 +3 +3 +4 +4 +1 +1 +2 +1 +1 +2 +2 +2 +2 +2 +2 +2 +2 +3 +3 +3 +3 +3 +3 +2 +4 +4 +4 +5 +5 +3. 1 +3 +3 +3 +3 +3 +3 +3 -1
+3
5
10
7
.8
7
0
1
2
3
6
-6 6
0
3
0 -2 3 5
3
July,
+4 +4
August,
+4 +5 +5 +4 +5 +5 +5 +5 +5 +6 +5
+1
+2
September,
October,
November,
December,
+7 +4 +5 +5 +5 +7 +6 +5. +4 +4 +6 +7 +7 +5 +2
+6 +5
+4 +2
2
+4 +2
2
+3 +2
2
5
~~67 NA & CO CO
5
4
7 6
4
4
4
8
8
6
6
6
3
5
5
CONA IN OJ
4
4
0 +3 +2 0 +1 +1 +1 +1 +2 +2
+3 +4 +4 +5
67
84
+2 +4 +4 +4
75
89
+3, +3 ́`· +3
87
91
་
2
0
0
+1
+2
+3 +3 +3
87
94
1
+2 +3
+3
+4 +4 +4
81
92
5
2 +2 +3
+3
+3 +3
+4
83
93
4
-2 -1
+2
+2 +3 +3 +4
83
94
7
6
8
-6
1
+1
+3
+4 +4 +4 +5
82
93
9 10
11 -10
9
7
1
7
8 -8 -8
5 3
―
9 ·10 -10 - 10
8
4 3
0 -1
8-10
-11 -12 -10 -10
7 4
0
● www
000
+2
+5 +7 +6 +7 +7
67
79
+2
+2+3 +3 +4 +4
72
84
+
1 +3
+5 +6
+7 +6 +7
59
72
+2 +4 +5
+6
+7 +10 +10
55
· 67:
Means,....
+5 +4 +4 +4 +4 +3 +2
-1 -3 .5 -6-7
-7 -6 -5 -3
0 +2 +3 +4 +4 +5 +5
75
r.
86
TABLE IV.
Mean Tension of Aqueous Vapour at the Observatory and at the Peak for each Month in the Year 1886, and Mean Diurnal Variation at the Observatory.
Mean.
· Month.
1 a.
2 a.
3 a.
4 a.
5 &.
6 a.
7'a.
8 a.
9 a.
10 a.
11 a. Noon.
1 p. 2 p.
3 p.
4 p.
5 p.
6 p.
7 p.
8 p.
9 p. 10 p.
11 p. Midt.
Observ.
Peak.
atory.
January,
February,
+.014 +.006 .002 —.006 +.004 -.003
-.006
.009-.008 -002
..007 ..006
-.010
-.010
March,
-.001 .008
..011 -.012
-.017
-.016
-.009 —,008 -.016 -.011
.012-.015 .006 -.005 .004 ..002
April,
May,
June,
July,
August,
September,..
+.008 +.004 +.002 →,005 .000 -.001 -.001 -.004 +.004 +.003 +.020 +.015
.002 -.007
-.007
-.015
-.012-.007
.005 -.002
October,
+.023 +.013
.006
.000 -.007 ..004 -.009 -.002 ..003 .014 +.006 .009 +.007
-.009
-.004
-.002
—.001 —.006
November,
+.029 .018
December,
+.022 +.020
+011 -.003 +.017 +.003
-.003 .000 ..004 003 -.003 +.002 ..009 -.013
.000 -.010 -.011 -.018 -.014 --.024
.010 +.007
+.009 +.001
-.011 +.007 ..052 —.035 ..026 -.018 ..036 -.032
+.009 +.005 +.011 +.010 -.013 -.027 -.011 -.016 .023 -.028 -.028 -.033
.003 -.014
-.014 -.012 -.003 -.005 001 +.009 -.007 —,006 .015 .008 ..005 -.006
+.009 +.006 +.009 −.001 +.003 -.010 -.041 -043 ..021 -.025 ..031 .035 -.035 -.036
-.009 -.007 -.005 −.006 .005 +.004 +.006 +.007 +.007 +.001
-.007 .002 −006 +.002
+.004 +.005 +.002 +.004
.000 +.004 -.005 -.011 .001 -.002 +.008 +.008 +.002 -.003 -.026 -.019 -.009 -.009 —.002 .000 ..031 .025 -.017 .000
+.002 +.003 -.006 -.002 -.005 -.011 +.002 .000 -.013 +.002 -.013 −.006
-.001 +.001 .000 +.001 -.007 -.004 -.007 -.008 ..010 -.001 .006 +.016
+.014 +.011 +.018 +.017 .010 +.010 .000 +.003 +.003 +.005 +.010 +.013
+.016 +.012
0.338
0.351
+.012 +.015 +.010 +.013
+.016 +.017
.317
.311
+.014 +.014
.493
.489
+.009 +.010
+.009 +.003
.627
.597
.006 +.010 -.007 -.005 -.012 +.001 +.026 +.039
+.015+.019 +.006 +.003 .005 -.001
+.017 +.015
.733
.683
.000 +.006
.844
.770
-.003 -.002
.867
.802
+.009 +.006
-.004 +.003
.874
.813
+.043 +.038
+035 +.029
.687
.667
+.007 +.009
+.015 +.015
+.018 +.013
+.016 +.013
.673
.643
+.001 +.007
+.027 +.036
+.043 +.044
+.037 +.032
.425
.413
-.037 -.036 -.023 -.017.007 +.004
+.015 +.017
+.022 +.027
+.028 +.034
+.039 +.038
.286
.284
Means,
+.010 +.005 +.001 —.004-007-010-008-.010
-.011-016-016-012-008-007 -.005 .000 +.001 +.004 +.009 +.014 +.017 +.018 +.016 +.015
0.597
0.569
283
TABLE V.
Total Hourly Duration of Sunshine for each Month in the Year 1886, and Total Monthly Duration of Sunshine.
6 a.
7 a.
8 a.
9 a.
10 a.
11 a.
Noon. 1 p. 2 p. 8p.
4 p.
5. P.
6 p.
Total
Record.
Total
Possible.
Month.
Percentage of Possible.
284
January,
3.2
10.6
13.3
13.7
14.5
15.2
. 16.0
14.7.
13.9
12.7
4.3
132.1
311
42
:
February,
́ 1.2
3.3
2.2
3.1
3.5
3.4
4.3
3.3
3.4
1.8
0.7
March,...
April,
:
...
:
30.2
294
10
2.9
4.6
7.8
10.1
6.8
8.1
6.1
6.2
6.7
3.1
62.4
344
18
2.9
6.2
9.5
8.9
10.0
13.0
11.8
.12.0
11.2
€9.9
4.4
0.8
100.6
353
28
May,
1.1
9.5- 12.4
13.0
14.2
17.0
18.8
18.5
19.5
18.2
16.8
14.9
5.4
179.3
380
47
June,
1.7
11.0
12.4
15.1
16.9
15.0
13.0
14.1.
14.6
14.0
12.1
11.3
4.7
155.9
376
41
July,
1.7
11.3
13.9
15.9
17.5
18.5
18.6
17.6
19.6
17.7
13.6
12.0
3.4
181.3
384
47
August,
2.5
13.7
18.0
22.0
19.3
18.3
15.3
18.7
21.0
18.1
17.7
13.8
3.5
201.9
370
55
September,
0.4.
15.4
20,6
24.1
25.8
25.5
25.6
23.4
22.5
24.2
21.8
16.0
0.9
245.7
340
72
October,
:
8.4
16.4
18.4
21.4
22.7
24.3
25.0
24.0
24.7
22.7
17.4
225.4
331
68
November,..
December,
9.1
24.7
26.7
27.5
28.3
27.8
27.9.
27.9
**27.8
25.8
14.5
268.0
306
88
...
72
7.2
23.1
24.3
24.1
24.1
24.2
23.8
23.1
22.0
22.2
9.7
:
227.8
307
74
Sums,
7.4
92.9 164.5
189.1
200.2 207.5
206.0 209.2
208.8
201.4
183.3 122.1
18.7
2010.6
. 4096
49
TABLE VI.
Total Hourly Rainfall for each Month in the Year 1886.
Month.
1 a. 2 a. 3 a.
4 a.
5 a. 6 a.
7 a.
9 a. 10 a. 11 a. Noon. 1 p. 2 p. -0.170 0.260 0.080 0.070 0.035 0.070 0.095 0.075 0.010 0.210 0.185 0.075 0.045 0.015 0.015 0.095 0.220 0.025 0.015 0.015
0.035 0.150 0.075 0.120 0.170 0.090 0.015 -0.025, 0.010 0.405 0.565 0,065 0.030 0.025
3 p.
4 p. 5 p.
6 p.
7 P.
8 p.
9. p.
10 p. 11 p. Midt.
Sum.
8 a
0.015
...
...
2.015
1.535
...
January,
February,
March,
April,
May,
June,
...
...
0.050 0.155 0.025 0.155 0.005 0.025 0.175 0.075 0.035 0.070 0.100 0.040 0.045 0.040 0.070 0.040 0.260 0.235 0.070 0.085 0.035 0.110 0.005 0.680 0.025 0.145 0.125 0.040 0.025 0.030 0.240 0.360 0.115 2.590 0.065 0.085 0.870 1.040 0.970 0.555 0.110 0.180 0.105 0.210 0.100 0.070 0.010 0.165 · 0.015|· 5.675
·0.080 0.080 0.105 0.135 0.115 0.090 0.085 0.150 0.095 0.055 0.115 0.095 0.035 0.040 0.385 0.050 0.015 0.010 0.005 0.010 0.020 0.005 1.775 0.270 0.480 0.165 0.520 0.850 0.745 0.400 0.870 1.040 0.560 0.420 0.800 0.705 0.295 0.675 0.545 0.195 0.230 0.115 0.390 0.135 0.125 0.055 0.040 10.625 0.940 0.360 0.915 0.980 1.195 1.075 1.030 0.720 1.275 1.680 0:365 0.485 0.630 1.255 3.855 2.985 2.800 0.610 0.370 0.755 1.430 1.175 0.515 0.835 28.235 0.025 0.360 0.050 0.275 0.430 0.600 0.400 0.635 0.530 1.285 0.950 0.605 0.945 0.225 0.060 0.020 0.015 0.125 0.335 0.155 0.240.0.815| 0.020 0.595 1.270 0.025 0.055
July,
August,
September,
0.095 0.030 0.230 0.145 0.105
October, November, .....................
December,
0.010 0.020
0.010 0.005 0.115 0.035 0.060 0.090 0.010 0.215 0.075
0.005 0.005 0.005 0.045 0.070 0.005 0.015 0.060 0.130 0.075 0.040 0.035 0.005
0.130
0.010 0.040 0.215
...
0.005
....
...
...
...
...
0.055 0.005 0.010 1.095 1.015 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.025 0.005 0.005 0.035 0.055 0.140 0.125 0.015 0.175 0.035 0.145 0.105 0.095 0.090 0.210 0.070 Mean,...... 0.137 0.157 0.154 0.250 0.273 0.258 0.191 0,212 0.274 0.334 0.262 0.262 0.282 0.222 0.530 0.322 0.307 0.109 0.072 0.269 0.383 0.176 0.155 0.172
9.080
2.995
2.815
0.050
1.775
5.764
TABLE VII.
7
Number of Hours, during portion of which it rained, for each Month in the Year 1886.
Month.
1 a.
2 a.
3 a.
4 a.
5 a.
6 a.
78.
8.a.
9 a.
10 a.
11 a. Noon. 1 p.
2 p. 3 p. 4.p.
5 p.
6 p.
7 p.
8 p.
9 p. 10 p. 11 p. Midt.
Total.
January,
1
February,
4
·
March,
4
April,
3
May,
18
June,
6
July,.
16
August,
3
September,
...
October,
1
November,
1
December,
2
QIBII7O22:1
1
4
3
2
...
2
1
1
4
3
6
8
10
6
11
14
1
4
2
1
1
2
1
1
3
2
238874
2132460622 : 2
+
4
2
2
2
Ι
2
...
1
4
4
3 *2
1
8
6
11
11
9
8
3
3
3
5
1
1
1
11:020001
2
6
4
1
6
3
5
3
3
1.
1
...
...
...
Ni ni
2
1
1
...
1
***
...
...
...
2
1
1
1
2
3
122227♡HREE
1223260.::~:~
2 2 3 1 NTF
222020021 ::
HE :HIBBO CO TEN
1
3
2
NANIHON :- :~
2
3
:43
5
3
5
2
GO CO LO CO
24 40 60 00
41
51
3
54
3
73
1
1
1
42
4
5
4
2
138
6
7
187
3
1
4
1
1
1
1
....
2
1
1
BILIN
4
69
1
25
...
1
24
1
1
6
2
2
1
39
...
Total,...... 34
26
32
38
45
46 35
36
88
38 28 32
28
22 31 27
26
23
23
24
27
333
33 29
749
285
TABLE VIII.
Mean Hourly Velocity of the Wind at the Observatory and at the Peak for each Month in the Year 1886, and Mean Diurnal Variation at the Observatory.
286
Mean.
Month.
1 a.
2 a. 3 a.
4 a.
5 a.
6 a. 7 a.
8 a.
9 a. 10 a. 11 a. Noon. 1 p. 2 p. 3 p. 4 p. 5 p. 6 p. 7 p. 8 p. 9 p. 10 p. 11 p. Midt.
Observ-
atory.
Peak.
January,
February,
March,
April,
May,
0.0
June,
July,
August,
September,
•
1.7 -1.9 1.7
1.7
-1.5 -1.1
October,
November,
December,
•
-0.2 -0.3 0.0 +0.6 +0.4 -0.8
—
-1.4 - 1.5 -1.9 -2.2 1.6
-0.7
-0.5 -1.4 -1.1 -0.8 +0.1 +0.8 +1.5 +1.5 +1.4 +1.0 +1.0 +0.7 -0.4 -1.5 -1.8 -1.2 -0.4 +0.7 +0.8 0.0 -0.9 -0.5 -0.5 -1.5 -1.4 -0.1 +0.8 +1.6 +0.4 +1.4 +1.6 +1.6 +0.9 +0.2 -0.8 -2.2 -1.2 ·0.0 +0.3 +0.4 -0.1 -1.0-0.7 -1.1 ·0.9 +0.8 +0.1 +1.1 +1.2 +1.7 +2.0 +2.8 +2.0 +2.2 +1.5 +1.1 +0:4 +0.6 −0.6 -0.6 1.5 -2.3 -1.6 -0.8 -1.8 -1.1 +1.3 +1.9 +2.1 +2.4 +2.1 +3.1 +2.6 +1.8 +1.4 +0.8 0.0 +0.2 -0.7 -1.6 -2.0 -0.9 -2.1 1.7 -0.9 1.6 1.5 -0.7 +0.1 +0.8 +1.8 +2.7 +2.5 +2.4 +2.1 +2.5 +2.0 +0.6 -0.5 1.3 1.2 -0.4 -0.5 -1.0 -2.3 -1.7 -1.5 -1.2 +0.3 +0.2 +1.1 +1.9 +2.3 +2.3 +3.2 +2.4 +1.7 0.0 -0.7 -0.7 -1.5
·0.5 -0.2 +0.1 - 1.6 ·1.1 +0.2 +0.6 +1.9 +1.4 +2.9 +2.2 +2.7 +2.7 +2.0 +0.9 +0.2 −0.6 1.7 2.1 2.5 -2.9 -2.3 0.0 +1.4 +3.3 +3.2 +3.4 +4.5 +3.9 +3.6 +3.1 +1.2 -0.6 -1.6 -2.3 -2.9 -2.1 -2.5 1.7 -1.3 -1.4 1.4 -0.7 1.7 -1.3 +0.8 +1.5 +1.8 +1.6 +2.9 +2.7 +3.0 +3.4 +2.5 +0.8 −0.2 -0.5 -0.6 -0.9 -1.6 -2.1 -1.4 -1.2 +0.6 +0.8 +1.9 +3.2 +2.7 +2.3 +1.8 +1.6 +0.5 0.0 -1.1 +0.1 -0.1 -0.4 -1.0 -0.4 -1.1 -2.0 -0.7 −0.3 +1.0 +0.9 +2.8 +2.0 +0.9 +1.5 +1.1 -0.3 -1.8 +0.1 0.0 -0.3 -0.6 +0.5 -0.4 -0.4 +0.6 +2.2 +3.2 +1.9 +1.3 -0.1 -0.3 +0.7 +0.4 -1.0 -2.3
-0.6 -0.2 -1.2--0.9 1.5
13.7
26
16.5
29
2.8 -2.0 -2,6 -2.5
16.1
26
16.5
27
1.0 0.9
14.4
26
11.3
27
·2.3 -2,2 −1.6
11.3
27
9.3
24
1.4 1.5 ·1.8 -2.3 -2.3 1.5
9.1
23
1.4-2.1 -1.8 +0.3 +0.1 −0.5 1.8 -2.2 -0.9 +0.3 +1.1 +1.2 -2.2-1.7 -0.6 -0.5 +0.1
14.9
25
15.3
25
0.0
14.2
27
Mean,.
-0.8 -0.8 -0.9 -1.1 -0.8 -0.9 -0.9 0.0 +0.8 +1.5 +2.2 +2.1 +2.1 +1.9 +1.9 +1.4 +0.5 −0.7 −1.3 -1.5 −1.3 -0.9 −0.9 −1.0
13.5
26
TABLE IX.
Mean Direction of the Wind at the Observatory and at the Peak for each Month in the Year 1886, and Mean Diurnal Variation at the Observatory.
Mean.
Month.
1 a.
2 a.
3 a. 4 a.
5 a.
6 a.
8 a.
9 a.
10 a. 11 a. Noon. 1 p.
2 p.
3 p.
4 p.
5 p. 6 p.
6 p.
p.
p. 8 p. 9 p. 10 p. 11 p. Midt.
Observ-
atory.
Peak.
January,
February,
March,
April,
May,
June,
July,
August,
September,
October,
+ | | | | | + + !+
+ 5°
i6324
1°
8
10
3
6
4000
4°
2o
6
2 0 + 1 + 1
11+
6° 4°
4°
8
.4
1
+
1 + 1
4.
0
2
9
4
5
6
5
1
∙12
0 + 3 + 3 + 3 +3 +10 +23 +13 + 3 + 3 +13 +19 +22 +22 -21 14 -27 -31 -81
•
+ 2 + 3 + 2
+ 6
HHOTO LO
+11
3°
3
80+ 3°
5 + 3 + 2
5o
+ 1° + 4°
+ 5
+10° +11° +10° + 3° 7 +11
1o
0° + 5°
7°
1°
E 24° NE 23° N
+ 2 + 4 + 5
+
+ 7 + 3 + 2
3 + 1 + 1 + 3 0 + 2
+ 5
3 + 4
+ 4
+ 4
+ 2
3
3
5
1
1
+ 1
1
2 6 + 1
+ 2
+ 5
+
+ 8
+10
+ 7 + 2
+ 1
+ 3*
+
+ 2 + 2
10
+10 + 8
+10
+ 9
+10
2
7
12
24104
1
1
W
3
HOLB
5
3
E 16° N
E 12° N
1
2
E 5° N
E 30° S
I
E 1° N
E 20° S
5
6
E 5° SE 43° S
- 15
9
4
E 44° S S
-
32 ·30 42 40
5 -11 -19 8 +26 +32 +28 +10 +11 19 +3
5
7 + 1
+ 7
9
+ 2
+ 7
+ 3
+ 3
1
9
6
2
+ 2
E 41° S E 83 S
+ 9
1+ 4
0
7.
-22
-19
-25
-22
-28
28
23
14
S 10° WS 18° W
+ 1
3
6
9
W
8
— 9
.9
10
8
November,
0
4
15
-20
27 26
-23 -24
10
•
December,
1
4
-10-18
-20
-24
-26
26
12
+29 +30 +39 +38 +34 0 + 4 + 6 + 8 +10 +11 +10 8 + 4 +13 +17 +23 +20 +14 3 + 9 +12 +16 +11 +14 +17
+28
+25 +24
+12 +22 +10 + 2
+
7
E 19° NE 13° N
+ 8+ 9
+ 3
2
3
5
1
E 11° N
E 5° N
+12+11 +11 +15 +11
+ 8
+8
+ 6 + 8 + 4
E 23° N
E 16° N
+ 6
+ 7
+
8
+ 6 + 8 +
E 36° N
E 23° N
Mean,......
3
1
2
3
cr
6
5
10
7
1
-J
7
I
2 + 1 + 6 + 9 +11 + 9 + 9 + 6 + 3 + 2
0 2
1
Co
1
Co
2 E 5° S E 23° S
·
N,
287
TABLE X.
Total Distance traversed by, as well as Total Duration and Average Velocity of Winds from eight different points
of the Compass during the Year 1886.
NE,
E,
SE,
S.........
SW,
W,..
NW,
༥
Calm,
WIND.
Total Distance.
Duration.
Velocity.
Miles.
Hours.
Miles
per Hour.
12683
1011
12.5
11658
887
13.1
72495
4219
17.2
5658
538
10.5
5227
520
10.1
6044
504
12.0
3342
431
7.8
1418
214
6.6
1
208
436
0.5
39
Sums and Mean,...
118733
8760
13.5
TABLE XI.
Total Rainfall, Duration of Rain, and Number of Days on which Rain was collected at the Observatory, Stone Cutters' Island and the Peak for each month of the Year 1886.
OBSERVATORY.
STONE CUTTERS' ISLAND.
VICTORIA PEAK.
Month.
Amount. ins.
Duration. hrs.
Days.
Amount. ins.
Days.
Amount. ins.
Days.
January,
2.015
93
10
2.05
8
2.67
6
February,
1.535
127
9
1.40
2
2.53
7
March.......
2.590
72
10
1.26
4
3.25
6
April,
5.680
99
12
3.77
9
6.36
9
May,
3.560
85
77
2.59
4.97
6
June,
8.875
122
13
21
10.02
18
17.34
18
July,
28.320
163
25
28.62
24
31.02
17
August,
8.955
62
14
8.12
14
. 10.48
8
September,
2.995
22
8
3.28
8
4.42
October, ....
2:815
26
3.11
5
1.71
1
November,
0.050
4
0
December,
1.775
54
1.16
3
2.66
3
Year,..
69.165
929
129
65.38
99
87.41
85
.
288
TABLE XII.
Total Number of Days on which Different Meteorological Phenomena were noted and Total Number of
Thunderstorms during each Month of the Year 1886.
:
...
...
1
1
:
Month.
Fog.
Electric Pheno-
mena.
Unusual
Light- Thunder.
ning.
Thunder-
Visibili-
Dew.
storms.
Rain-Lunar bows. Halo.
Lunar Coro-
Solar
Solar
Coro-
Halo.
ty.
na.
na.
January,
1
February,
3
:
:
:
•
...
:
:
:
...
1
2
March,...
April,
∞
5
10
5
4
:
...
3
1
2
1
H
8
5
7
2
6
:
...
:
2
May,
1
9
9
1
1
2
June,
12
12
1
3
1
6
6
3
July,
20
19
9
4
1
2
3
4
3
2
August,
24
20
12
3
4
4
7
8
September,
3
9
9
10
5
5
7
1.
1
5
October,
2
3
GO
3
1
1
3
5.
2
1
1
November,
3
:
2
3
...
December,
1
:
***
...
:
3
2
:
...
Sums,...... 23
90
82
43
19
34
50
11
18
19
26
14
TABLE XIII.
Total Number of Times that Clouds of different forms were observed in each Month of the Year 1886.
:
Month.
January,
February,
March,.
3
:
:
c-str.
c-cum. sm-cum. cum.
cum-str.
str. R-cum. cum-nim.
nim.
19
9
22
2
17
283
63
67
10
4
10
99
•
April,..
3
14
5
16
116
61
:
11
8
53
37
40
13
64
.52
19
17
64
47
11
6
69
46
May,
3
June,
46
15 205
25
28
157
9
4
56
31
July,
17
59
22
27
23
119
11
8
8
49
31
10
136
8
12
4
54
888
53
60
August,
14
78
34
31
176
15
7
6
44
26
September,
41
46
46
117
October,.....
4
6
19
14
140
November,
32
19
18
114
December,
1
20
10
47
GO
:
7
3
20
9
13
9
34
13
3
3
10
...
11
2
16
22
Sums,....
55
352
223
245
1351
39
151
83
533
396
TABLE XIV.
Mean Percentage of Clouded Sky and Mean Diurnal Variation in each Month of the Year 1886.
289
L.
-
·
Mean.
4 p.
7 p.
10 p.
*
10 a.
1 p.
7a.
4 a.
Month.
1 a.
:
January,......
1
+ 3
+ 5
+ 1
1
1
3
-
2
65
February,
....
+ 3
+ 2
+ 1
1
1
0
+ 3
96
March,
+ 3
1
1
+ 3
2
1
+1
92
April,.........
+ 6
1
1
+ 4
+1
1
3
3
1
82
May,
June,
+ 4
+11
+ 3
0
9
5
1
5
71
-
+ 2
+.8.
+ 6
+7
1
-15
76
July,
6
+ 5
+ 1
+ 1
+
N
+10
+ 6
- 19
76
August,
+ 1
0
H
1
5
+1
+14
+7
-11
71
September,...
3
+13
+ 3
-12
+ 1
1
6
+ 2
51
October,
+ 6
+15
+ 9
-
4
I
6
9
9
0
48
:
November,...
+16
+16
3
—
-13
-11
8
8
+12
35
December,... + 4
+7
1
1
2
+ 3
31
Mean
+1.7
+5.4
+3.0
-3.1
- 1.0
-0.4.
-2.4
-2.7
66
Month.
TABLE XV.
Mean Sea Disturbance in each Month of the Year 1886.
Mean.
10 p.
4 p.
10 a.
4 a.
January,
February,...
March,
•
April,...................
2.3
2.6
2.1
2.5
2.4
2.9
2.6
2.4
2.7
2.6
1.7
2.1
1.6
1.5
1.7
2.0
2.4
2.4
1.9
2.2
May,
1.6
1.9
1.8
1.7
1.8
June,
1.7
1.9
1.8
1.7
1.8
July,
1.5
1.7
1.7
1.6
1.6
August,
1.0
1.3
1.4
1.1
1.2
September,
1.4
2.0
1.6
1.4
1.6
October,......
3.0
3.2
3.0
3.0
3.0
November,.....
2.7
3.1
2.8
2.8
2.9
December,
2.2
2.4
1.9
2.2
2.2
Mean,.............
2.0
2.3
2.0
2.0
2.1
•
290
TABLE XVI.
Monthly Extremes of the Principal Meteorological Elements registered at the Observatory during the Year 1886.
Wind
Barometer.
Temperature.
Humi- dity.
Vapour Tension.
Rain.
Velo-
Radiation.
city.
Month.
Daily
Max.
Min.
Max.
Min. Min.
Max. Min.
Max.
Max.
Hourly Max.
Sun
Terr. Max. Min.
1886.
January,
30.331 29.686
74.4
41.8
February,
.272
.772
63.5
43.7
22 23
24
0.549 0.102
0.775
0.210 41
142.0 38.3
.499
.115
0.540
0.195 46
128.0 44.7
March,
.150
.683
76.3
52.0 64
.717
.310
0.960 0.675 46
132.4 50.7
April,
.017
.623
78.3
60.5
50
.823
.357
1.815
0.600 35
142.8 57.7
May,
29.997
.654
88.3
65.8
42
.911
.314
1.265
0.315
· 30
153.3
60.4
June,
.880
.426
87.8
70.7
July,
.823
.475
88.4
73.9
8893
57
:966
.638
2.595
0.630
37
153.3 68.5
63
.957
.750
13.480
3.480 38
156.8 70.9
August,
.815
.403 89.7
74.7
62
.952
.755
4.230 1.240 34
$156.8
73.3
September,
.951
.547 88.4
72.3
34
.896
.360
1.040 0.990 30
155.2 67.3
October,
30.117
.606
86.1 60.8
41
.869
.292
2.240
1.075 38
147.0 60.8
November,
....
.183
.720 80.0
58.1
26
.617
.194
0.030
0.025 38
142.2 53.1
December,.......
,260
.890 71.5
50.8
14
.487
.064
1.115
0.165 54
132.6. 40.5
Year,
30.331 29.403 89.7
41.8
14
0.966 0.064 13.480
3.480 54
156.8 38.3
TABLE XVII..
Monthly Extremes of the Principal Meteorological Elements registered at Victoria Peak during the Year 1886.
Barometer.
Temperature.
Humi- dity.
Vapour Tension. Rain.
Wind Force.
Radiation.
Month.
Max. Min. Max. Min.
Min. Max.
Min.
Daily Max.
Max.
Sun Terr. Max. Min.
1886.
January,
28.493 27.957
61.8
36.0
1
February,
.448 28.057 62.0
36.7 66
89985
57
0.531 0.150
1.56 .6
142.0
31.5
.490
.168
1.12
7
129.4
33.7
March.............
.345
27.983
68.8
47.8
57
.664
,265
1.15 7
138.0
45.3
April,.
.251
.934
74.5
54.8
78
.726
.422
2.10
6
141.0
55.3
May,
.243-
.970
78.0
61.3
71
.851
.432
3.89 7
146.4
58.1
June,
.146
.764
79.2
64.8
70
.882
.575
•
5.12 7
148.2
63.6
July,
.137
.823
81.0
69.8
82
.894
.706
14.56 7
151.0
67.2
August,
.105
.748
81.1
70.0
September,
.225
.889
81.5
66.1
88888
82
.882
.730
5.18 6
153.9
68.2
56
.858
.469
1.98
7
152.9
59.4
October,.....
..329
.945
79.7
58.5
54
.812
.321
1.71
7
144.3
51.2
←
November,
.387 28.002
70.3
48.3
44
.564
.196
6
134.0
46.2
December,
.440
.119
65.3
40.1
24
.406
.100
1.46 7
124.2
41.2
Year,
28.493
27.748
81.5
36.0
24
0.894
0.100
14.56 7
153.9
31.5
TABLE XVIII.
Average Readings of Solar Radiation Thermometers and Excess over Maximum Thermometers as well as Excess of Minimum over Terrestrial Radiation Thermometers, Mean Weight of Aqueous Vapour in Troy Grains
in each cubic foot of air and Diurnal Range of Temperature at the Observatory and at the Peak, and average height in feet at which the Temperature of the air was 1° lower during 1885.
291
Solar Radiation Thermometer.
Solar Radiation. Excess over Maximum.
Terrestrial Radia- tion.
Weight of Aque- ous Vapour.
Diurnal Range.
Height
Month.
of 1° Decrease.
Observa- tory.
Peak.
Observa- tory.
Peak.
Observa- tory.
Peak,
Observa- tory.
Peak.
Observa- tory.
Peak.
1886.
January,
112.0 107.6
49,9
52.0
+3.3
+3.4
3.74
3.92
6.6
5.3
299
February,...... 98.3
97.2
41.9
46.0
+0.9 +1.9
3.53
3.51
5.6
7.0
294
March,
117.2
113.7
51.5
50.6
+0.9
+1.7
5.41
5.41
6.6
8.1
656
April,
121.8
114.9
49.5
46.7
+1.3
+1.6
6.80
6.52
5.4
5.6
406
May,
137.8
127.2
58.2
54.4
+1.9 +2.1
7.85
7.39
6.7
5.2
294
June,......
138.6
130.0
55.3
53.8
+2.8
+1.2
8.96
8.29
6.4
5.8
258
July,
138.1
131.6
53.9
54.8 +2.7.
+1.1
9.19
8.60
6.8.
4.5
267
August,
145.4
136.2
59.9
58.4
+1.6
+1.8
9.26
8.72
7.6
4.9
280
September,
143.9
140.0.
59.6
62.7
+4.1
+3.9
7.30
7.18
8.1
6.8
280
October,
November,
138.5 131.6
58.3
56.9
+3.0
+2.7
7.19
6.95
6.3
7.2
280
132.5
124.5
59.5
57.9
+ 4.4
+2.6
4.60
4.53
7.6
9.3
234
December,
117.1 114.1
52.9
56.7
+5.5 +0.2.
3.16
3.18
8.5
12.1
222
Mean,
128.4 122.4
54.2
54.2
+2.7
+2.0
6.42
6.18
6.8
6.8
314
Hongkong Observatory, 7th February, 1887.
W. DOBERCK,
Government Astronomer.
293
No. 15
87,
HONGKONG.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE OBSERVATORY ON FIVE-DAY MEANS OF THE PRINCIPAL
METEOROLOGICAL ELEMENTS FOR 1886.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency
the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 4th March, 1887.
FIVE-DAY MEANS OF THE PRINCIPAL METEOROLOGICAL
ELEMENTS FOR 1886.
The following five-day means have been constructed according to the recommendations of the International Meteorological Congress.
Hongkong Observatory: The first column exhibits the height of the barometer in inches reduced to 32° Fahrenheit but not to sea level. The cistern is 110 feet above mean sea level. The means have been derived from the hourly readings.
The second column exhibits the temperature in degrees Fahrenheit as derived from the hourly readings.
The third and fourth columns exhibit the relative humidity in percentage of saturation and the vapour tension in inches of mercury as derived from the means of the hourly readings of the dry and damp bulb thermometers.
The fifth column exhibits the velocity of the wind in miles per hour derived from the hourly readings.
The sixth column exhibits the percentage of the whole sky, that was covered by clouds, from observations made every three hours.
The seventh column exhibits the average daily number of hours during which the sun shone brightly enough to mark the cards.
The eighth column exhibits the average amount of rain in inches that fell in one day, from mid- night to mid-night as derived from the hourly readings.
Victoria Peak: The first column exhibits the height of the barometer in inches reduced to 32° Fahrenheit but not to sea level as derived from tri-diurnal observations. The cistern is 1816 feet above mean sea level..
The second column exhibits the temperature as derived from observations made at 10 a. and 10 p. The third and fourth columns exhibit the relative humidity and tension of vapour as derived from tri-diurnal observations.
The fifth column exhibits the force of the wind (0-12) as derived from tri-diurnal observations. The sixth column exhibits the average amount of rain in inches, that fell in one day as measured. at 10 a. and entered to preceding day.
The five-day means of temperature in 1884, derived from observations made in STEVENSON'S screen at 10 a. and 10 p. and reduced to true air temperature and mean of 24 hours are as follows :— 62.1, 57.2, 62.5, 60.2, 62.7, 64.2, 57.0, 51.0, 55.6, 58.9, 58.2, 60.2, 60.4, 60.0, 61.3, 61.1, 63.9, 63.7, 60.1, 64.0, 65.8, 66.9, 72.0, 69.3, 72.3, 73.9, 69.3, 73.6, 75.4, 75.0, 76.5, 76.0, 78.6, 80.7, 79.3, 81.3, 20.3, 80.9, 82.5, 83.3, 82.2, 80.3, 80.5, 82.1, 82.1, 78.3, 83.1, 81.0, 81.0, 81.8, 79.8, 80.8, 80.9, 78.5, 78.6, 80.0, 80.1, 75.2, 74.7, 73.0, 76.5, 74.6, 70.3, 70.7, 64.8, 58.4, 61.4, 62.4, 59.7, 60.2, 59.5, 59.8, 57.7.
294
Five-Day Period. Barometer.
.1886.
HONGKONG OBSERVATORY.
Tempera-
Humidity.
ture.
Vapour Wind Tension. Velocity.
Nebulosity. Sunshine.
Rain.
January
.... 1- 5
30.204
58.5
48
6-10
.120
63.1
39
.11-15
.099
60.3
108*
0.238
9.1
0.1
9.8
0.000
60
.348
12.2
6.6
4.8
0.000
64
.337
16.5
4.5
7.3
0.004
.16-20
.013
59.8
77
.396.
12.5
9.9
0.6
0.005
"5
.21-25
29.793
60.6
88
.466
18.2
9.6
1.3
0.087
23.
.26-30
.985
52.0
74
.293
12.5
8.9
1.6
0.307
"
February
31- 4
30.073
50.1
56
.212
24.0
8.1.
2.1
0.005
5- 9
.027
53.6
71
.303
16.6
9.2
2.4
0.174
10-14
.051
53.3
76
.310
14.4
9.8
1.1
0.108
15-19
.102
53.4
83
.340
21.5
9.9
0.1
0.003
"
.20-24
.153
52.9
73
.294
6.8
9.9
0.6
0.007
""
.25- 1
29.994
58.0
88
.427
18.6
9.6
1.0
0.010
15
March
2- 6
30.011
60.3
89
.474
14.6
9.7
1.1
0.001
7-11
.038
60.8
81
.435
20.4
8.7
2.3
0.003
""
12-16
29.875
64.0
93
.561
17.0
8.9
2.7
0.213
""
17-21
.933
65.5
90
.568
13.9
8.0
4.9
0.005
.22-26
.893
60.7
86
.475
11.0
9.8
1.0
0.254
"
..27-31
.981
61.2
83
.456
17.6
9.5
0.2
0.042
April
1- 5
.836
69.9
94
.693
15.5
8.0
3.5
0.003
6-10
.892
70.7
88
.660
15.8
7.2
5.6
0.002
وو
.11-15
.737
69.6
91
.661
14.0
8.7
2.0
0.301
99
.16-20
.783
67.3
85
.572
22.7
9.6
1.2
0.425
""
35
.21-25
.903
70.3
85
.631
17.2
9.0
2.8
0.362
""
.26-30
.918
68.6
78
.547
13.9
6.8
4.9
0.041
May
1- 5
.868
71.9
83
.652
15.7
6.9
4.9
0.003
6-10
.807
70.3
71
.532
19.3
8.5
4.3
0.264
""
.11-15
""
.775
75.4
89
.783
14.8
9.4
3.2
0.005
.16-20
.775
79.5
82
.830
8.3
4.7
9.4
0.001
39
.21-25
.792
79.0
82
.811
11.4
5.3
8.4
0.010
"J
.26-30
.812
77.6
80
.764
17.7
7.3
5.7
0.003
""
June
.31- 4
.672
78.8
88
.862
12.6
9.6
0.8
1.250
5- 9
.708
79.6
88.
.893
11.7
7.1
5.4
0.161
25
.10-14
.572
77.5
85
.799
12.9
9.3
1.6
0.235
.15-19
.655
78.9
77
.764
9.1.
4.8
8.4
0.127
""
""
.20-24
.781
81.0
83
.875
8.4
7.7
7.2
0.001
.25-29
.683
82.2
79
.866
12.4
7.9
6.2
0.401
59
.30- 4
.707
82.3
80
.886
11.5
7.4
7.7
0.140
59
July
5- 9
.763
79.2
85
.848
10.9
7.5
5.2
0.562
...10-14
.683
80.9
84
.882
14.3
7.6
6.0
0.617
.15-19
.645
78.1
86
.831
17.5
9.5
1.5
3.837
"
.20-24
.623
80.7
81
.850
8.8
7.0
7.5
0.199
**
.25-29
.597
81.8
82
.898
8.0
7.0
7.1
0,289
August
..30- 3
.659
82.8
.80
.902
10.7
7.2
6.1
0.099
4- 8
.715
83.0
78
.882
7.9
6.7
7.7
0.002
"
9-13
.585
81.7
79
.855
6.9
6.7
7.8
0.118
""
29
............14-18
.531
81.6
82
.887
12.0
9.0
4.1
0.137
.19-23
.611
80.8
84
.880
7.4
5.1
8.8
.0.009
.24-28
.692
78.7
87
,851
10,8
7.8
4.6
1.350
September
.29- 2
.742
79.9
.868
6.6
7.4
6.0
0,179
3-77
.703
80.6
72
.752
5.5
4.1
9.0
0.208
""
8-12
.723
78.4
61
.593
8.1
6.6
6.2
0.004
.13-17
.706
80.2
64
.666
4.2
6.1
8.2
0.000
>>
..18-22
.659
82.1
72
.798
8.6
6.9
7.2
0.318
""
.23-27
.810
78.2
61
.590
14.0
2.3
10.1
0.013
""
October
.28-2
.877
78.0.
66
.636
21.1
3.7
9.5
0.000
3- 7
.851
77.7
69
..651
12.1
5.2
5.8
0.000
-55
8-12
.744
79.0
73
.732
11.7
2.8.
9.1
0,448
"3
13-17 .18-22
.898
76.0
69
.624
22.6
7.2
4.7
0.005
.896
77.7
79
.752
12.4
4,5
7.0
0,019
""
.23-27
29.887
76.7
79
..730
15.7
4.9
7.7
0.091
November
.28- 1
30.014
71.3
63
.502
11.5
3.7
9.2
0.000
:
2- 6
""
..030
72.2
65
513
19.3
2.8
9.4
0.000
7-11
.032
70.5
59
.441
12.7
4.6
9.6
0.009
""
.12-16
30.020
69.7
59
.430
14.1
3.4
10.0
0.000
"
:
.17-21
29.985
68.0
52
.354
14.0
4.1
8.5
0.000
.22-26
30.072
66.5
59
.386
15.9
1.5
8.5
0.000
"
December
.27- 1
.033
66.0
63
.413
16.7
4.6
7.9
0.001
2-6
.076
63.5
63
.369
16.4
2.0
9.6
0,000
7-11
.165
59.9
35
.184
14.1
.0.1
9.7
**
0.000
.12-16
.043
58.6.
50
.251
16.8
4.3
5.8.
0.032
>>
.17-21
.063
60.5
65
.343
12.7
3.3
7.0
0,060
.22-26
.077
57.5
66
.314
13.6
5.8
5.3
0,263
.27-31
.085
58.9
49
.251
11.2
3.2
6.1
0.000
Five-Day Period.
1886.
VICTORIA PEAK.
Barometer. Temperature. Humidity.
Vapour Tension.
Wind Force.
Rain.
January
1- 5
28.400
51.7
72
0.288
3.9
0.00
6-10
وو
.338
55.5
79
.357
4.3
0.00
11-15
.287
54.6
80
.346
4.8
0.00
.16-20
.229
54.3
91
.388
4.3
0.00
39
.21-25
.028
57.3
97
.465
5.1
0.22
99
""
..26-30
.176
47.7
87
.301
5.1
0.31
February
...31- 4°
:232
42.2
80
.224
5.3
0.06
5- 9
.204
49.1
87
.324
5.5
0.22
"5"
.10-14
.234.
46.5
91
.297
5.0
0.08
...15-19
.297
46.9
94
.310
5.9
0.11
..20-24
.339
47.0
86
,289
· 4.9
0.00
""
.25- 1
.211
55.4
94
.425
4.6
0.04
39
March
2- 6
.248
59.6
89
.477
4.4
0.00
7-11
.259
58.0
86
.434
5.4
0.00
""
37
..12-16
.143
63.2
94.
.564
4.4
0.23
.17-21
.185
64.5
90
.570
3.8
0.00
19
"
.22-26
.132
58.2
91
.463
5.0
0.38
..27-31
.195
54.9
95
.427
5.0
0.04
""
April
1- 5
.114
66.9
96
.653
4.7
0.00
6-10
.152
66.8
95
.641
4.8
0.00
.11-15.
.014
: 66:1
96
.625
4.1
0.42
.16-20
.043
61.9
93
.532
5.3
0.39
37
21-25
.163
64.7
95
.591
4.9
0.42
.26-30
.181
63.4
89
.538
4.6
0.05
May
1- 5
.139
66.0
91
.600
4.8
0.00
6-10
.071
64.5
85
.529
5.2
0.16
"
.11-15
.074
69.6
96
.708
4.8
0.00
29
>
...16-20
.091
72.6
95
.774
4.3
0.00
.21-25
.102
73.5
90
.765
3.9
0.00
....
.26-30
.098
70.6
92
.710
4.8
0.06
June
...31- 4
27.976
72.8
95
.769
4.9
2.73
5- 9
28.020
73.6
95
.801
3.8
0.20
.10-14
27.869
70.3
94
.714
4.6
0.44
.15-19.
.974
72.8
86
.702
4.5
0.24
99
19
.20-24
28.093
74.1
94
.800
4.8
0.09
.25-29
.002
74.3
95
.807
5.9
0,55
"
July
.30- 4
.026
74.7
96
.831
5.5
0.05
5-9
.073
74.0
91
.773
4.5
0.68
""
.10-14
.000
74.2
95
.815
5.1
1.06
..15-19
27.954
72.1
96
.761
5.0
3.81
..20-24
.936
73.5
95
.795
4.8
0.12
..25-29
.926
74.9
94
.835
4.1
0.44
August
..30- 3
.971
75.0
96
.846
5.1
0.06
4- 8
28.039
75.3
93
.824
4.1
0.00
""
9-13
27.901
74.9
94
.815
4.3
0.16
4
..14-18
.846
74.6
96
.830
5.1
0.18
"
.19-23
.938
75.9
89
.812
2.7
0.00
.24-28
.990
72.9
95
.778
4.9
1.71
September..
29- 2
28.046
74.6
91
.787
3.2
0.05
3- 7
.006
74.7
83
.723
3.5
0.28
33
8-12
.021
72.0
74
.596
4.0
0.03
""
..13-17
..008
74.0
75
.642
3.4
0.00
""
18-22
27.976
76.3
82
.772
3.6
0.57
""
19
..23-27
28.101
71.3
74
.590
4.6
0,00
October
.28-2
.162
70.6
81
.622
5.5
0.00
3- 7
.133
71.1
80
.627
4.5
0.00
وو
8-12
.037
72.3
88
.722
3.9
0.34
.13-17
.167
68.7
84
.614
5.8
0.00
"
..18-22
.174
71.3
90
.714
3.9
0.00
.23-27
.169
70.2
86
.655
4.3
0.00
22
November
....28- 1
.273
66.6
72
.479
4.0
0.00
2- 6
.284
63.3
80
.486
4.3
0.00
7-11
.280
63.0
72
.438
3.7
0,00
>>
.12-16
.258
62.3
73
.425
4.6
0,00
""
.17-21
.234
60.1
65
.357
4.5
0.00
39
.22-26
.297
59.4
69
.362
4.8
0.00
"
December
.27- 1
..274
59.1
73
.390
5.0
0.00
2- 6
.293
57.2
73
.358
4.1
0.00
29
7-11
.368
52.7
44
.185
4.5
0.00
...12-16
.239
51.9
67
.271
4.9'
0.05
"J
.17-21
.273.
53.0
77
.318
4.7
0.19
.22-26
.267
51.1
80
.314
4.4
0.29
19
...27-31
.290
51.3
62
.253
4.6.
0.00
دو
Hongkong Observatory, 7th February, 1887.
295
W. DOBERCK,
Government Astronomer.
401.
No. 29
87.
1
HONGKONG.
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE OBSERVATORY FOR 1886.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 23rd May, 1887,
HONGKONG OBSERVATORY,
31st December, 1886.
SIR, For the information of His Excellency the Acting Governor, I have the honour to forward my Annual Report for 1886.
2. The second annual volume was published early in the summer, and the third volume will probably be ready for distribution within a few months. The meteorological observations and re- searches have been extended, and kept up to date since the appointment of an additional clerk. Absolute magnetic observations were made monthly, and Sir W. THOMSON's automatic tide-gauge was erected and worked since the end of October.
3. The electric time-ball was dropped as usual at 1 P.M., and the sidereal standard clock was kept going without being touched throughout the year. As soon as two years' ten-day rates are available, it is intended to re-examine the co-efficients.
4. Micrometric measures of Jupiter and Saturn occasionally made since 1879 have been reduced, and will be published in the astronomical report.
The Honourable
THE ACTING COLONIAL SECRETARY,
&c.,
&c.,
&.c.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
W. DOBERCK, Government Astronomer.
441
No. 32
87.
HONGKONG.
EXTRACTS FROM THE REPORT OF THE CAPTAIN SUPERINTENDENT OF POLICE
FOR THE YEAR 1886.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 2nd September, 1887.
No. 21.
POLICE OFFICE, HONGKONG, 22nd January, 1887.
I have the honour to forward for the information of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, details of the Police Establishment, the list of Pensioners, and the Criminal Statistics for the year 1886.
The Criminal Statistics show that 8,836 cases were reported to the Police during 1886, being an increase of 2,061 cases or 30.42 per cent. on the return for 1885. In the subdivision of these cases serious crimes (so called) and Minor Offences, an increase of 34 cases or 1.37 per cent is found in serious crimes, and an increase of 2,027 cases or 47.04 per cent. in Minor Offences.
Three murders took place. Two blind mendicants were attacked near Shaukiwán, and one murdered. The names of the assailants were quickly known, but the men took refuge in Chinese Territory, not without, it is supposed, the assistance of the Triad Society. In the two remaining cases the presumed culprits were arrested, and of their actual guilt there was little moral doubt, but the evidence adducible was not deemed sufficiently conclusive to justify a conviction at the Supreme Court. There was a decrease in the number of Burglaries. Robberies with violence and Piracy; and the other serious crimes call for no special remark. In one case, however, gold coin, to the value of nearly one thousand pounds, that had been stolen, was entirely recovered within three days by the perseverance and ability of a Chinese detective.
In the Minor Offences the principal noteworthy case was the prosecution of fifty one Chinese Constables. Information was given by a man that on a certain day some Constables would receive bribes for affording protection to Gambling Houses. The Officers deputed to inquire into the case brought conclusive evidence, that some fifty men received money to the extent of about ten cents or three pence a piece, but they failed, which is not to be wondered at, considering the notorious bad character of the informant, to prove the object for which the money was paid. The charge therefore dwindled down into one of receiving money without authority contrary to the Police Regulations. The conviction was quashed on appeal. In consequence of this case the security required for the good behaviour of Chinese Constables in the Land Force has been increased from fifty to two hundred dollars. Breaches of the Opium Ordinance show an increase of 686 cases. A number of search warrants have also been issued and returned without result.
The foreshore between No. 2 Station and East Point has silted up in a way that materially affects the utility of the Patrol Launches. The smallest launch drawing 4 feet 6 inches cannot now at low water go alongside Observation Point Pier, which should be lengthened, unless it is considered that it would be more advantageous and profitable to extend the Praya.
I regret that the mortality among the European Police has been unusually heavy, no less than eight having died. In addition, the cases of fever were especially numerous and severe.
The Force was therefore in the autumn from these causes and from the dismissal of the Chinese one hundred men below its effective strength. Whitfeild Station from the number of fever cases had to be temporarily abandoned. A Board held an inquiry into allegations concerning the Triad Society, and evidence was given that tended to show that it exercised a dangerous influence, twelve of the Head men have been banished from the Colony with a beneficial result.
Fires are now of very frequent occurrence and interfere with the general Police Work, owing to the Fire Brigade being so largely manned from this Force. It may be as well to recall to notice the fact, that where premises are insured, the standing Government Orders to the Police are that any prosecution for arson should be initiated by the Insurance Company affected. This is assumed to apply to cases when the supposed offender resides on the premises.
From the experience gained in severe typhoons, it appears that a grave danger to life has been allowed to spring up within the last few years by the multiplication of overhead telegraphic wires. It would be quite contrary to what might be expected, if in a bad typhoon these wires are not blown down so as to dangerously obstruct some of the main thoroughfares.
The Roman Catholic Cathedral having been pulled down and a large number of houses being in the course of erection on the site, the probability of a fire extending to the Central Station is much greater than before, and the danger is materially increased by the dilapidated state of the adjoining bungalows which were purchased some sixteen years ago for the purpose of supplying ground so greatly needed for the extension of the Barracks. The want of accommodation is now more felt than before, as the Force is larger, and fourteen men have ceased to receive quarters in the Markets.
1886.
TABLE A.
RETURN of SERIOUS and MINOR OFFENCES reported to have been committed during the Year 1888, with the Results of such Reports.
Robberies with Violence
from
the Person.
Burglaries.
Larconies in Dwelling
Houses
at Night.
Assaults
with Intent
to Rob.
Larcenies.
Felonics
not
already
Assaults
and
Disorderly
Gumbling.
given.
Conduct.
Kidnapping.
Unlawful
Possession.
Piracy.
Miscellaneous
Euro-
peans
and Indians.
Chinese.
Total.
Ameri-
Offences.
cans,
:
442
E
*
ལ
:
M
12
6
**
6
6
..
01
*
**
137 56
172 102
118 15
19 f
78
17 ४
10
6 生
3
06
122 14 52122
1 3
3
21
3 801
119! 18] 25 87
5 7
5
93 161 24 86 56 1
7 Z
9
26
:
33 51 40
300 889
300
4 34 72 02 | S19 374
20: t
..
'
30
Co
178
61
08
9! 14 10
+
:
..
61
69
09
94 30 25 37
60
17 37 55
H
LA
361 53 41 85
18
16
F9
59 62 38
221
250
22
77 11
3
..
1710
710
71 790
$5
789
61!
4
4
719 83
884
787
06.
-
826
90
95
G
1
2 357 #8 422 66
70%
:
:
71
23
18
927
239
38 99 5
5
523
106
627
111
673
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Drunkenness.
Nuisances.
No Pass or Light."
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
ALL
CASES.
TOTAL
OF
January,
10
February,
March,.
April,.
May,
June.
**
G
July,..........
August,
4
September,
October,
1
**
2
2
:
:
G
November,
1
December,.......
-}
TOTAL,...... 64 | 38 | 13
56
-
دارم
..
9
01
:
:
111
82
22
2
3
..
เ
163
76
22
}
زاد
..
100 22 28: 45
+
3
2
:
174a
88
21 11
9 5109
152
13] 11 87 10
281 7
201 10 4
11 12! 3 27
30
73) 4
I .15] 45|
192
916 366
15
31:
**
3
1
..
679
| 09
106
714
72
015
10
18 17:
14
415
31 47 3 1 1
835
90
886 94
982
H
185
83
26
160
71 2.1
131al
.. 154
8
50
It
6 102 141
18.
5 41 ..
6
+
23 5
15
19
=
TAR
*
6 1 119 158 | 251
00
s 31 11
=
13
13:
P
:
:
C
95
C
12
or
5 710 141
197 151
700
22 38
847 103
28 50; 5 7
773
•
830 101
!!!
.
51
25
10
3
9
96
137 21 4
20
10 13 5
51 27
8
*C
I
25 || 22 108
421
471
38 54 10
815
107
117
17
94
29 *
3 71 114 12 10
73 ..
9 jpg
1
25 22
ទ
..
..
..
15 14
323
370!
29
tot
L
**
653
78
81
..
..
185
72
19 6
G 2
85
123 16 7 55 ** 4
1
30 31 0.
1
26 21 12 29!
477 4
1
481
2
ཝ་
782
78 $35 82
778
די
11,898
SPS
278 87 70 | 42 ||1,031 1,486 | 223 | 248 762 31 78
03
55
55
291 2871 65
10
10 | 373 470|479|3,785 || 4,209
416 | 697 61
59 108,4121,073 9,168 1,144
8,836
*
:
1
..
12
4
Police Department, Hongkong, 22nd January, 1887.
j
a Two absconded from bai!.
b Two absconded from bail.
c 1 case undecided.
10,812
69
8
ຄ |
رکی
January,... 29 20 5 52 53 1 10
812
4 35 39 14
February, ..
8
4
..
17
17...
2
2
10 13
4.
1
March, ............. 19 10 5 41 April, ................ 13 13 2 37 42
46..
↑
··
71 7 12
25 27
May', ........ 5 5
..
52
58..
51
15
36.. 18 17
6
..
..
9 21
June, ................
17 21
81
$7
..
101 100 1
9 ..
14 12 3
..
July, ......
11
14.113 114
3 17 17
9
15 1
59 87 4 I
2
:
..
August, .... 13 17 2115 | 114
September, 17| 17
October,....] 26| 24
November, 23 21: 4 66
December,.. 43] 17
10 10..
7 9 1
43 37 15 1
21
58
97 98
12 12
7
8
3120 115 8 7 7. 21
23
ہو
3 73
78 | 109
7 G
91
8
0
T
20
69
1 22 22
7
12
69
..
85 6
to
1 2 19
راق
81 79
C
27 27..] 8
12
80112 5 2
mga ka
..
..
1271
**
531 47
SO..
03 58
6
11..
LA
5
5
12
..
36! 87
..
6
6 |
(4
J
2 54
*
เร
3
168
31
7
ت
571 5 83 75 12
2
2
“.. $2
30
3 1
2
1
44 13 1 31 3
મ 4 1
9
11
323
323
20
S
2
..
102 98 18
11 19
2
61 63 G
21
72
84 76
91
5
16 17
13
4
16 17 ..
4
82
12
Co
N
51
20❘ 20
•
..
..
15 23
..
85 85 11
1 2
31
33
**
*
:
L
5
2
4
N
H
Co
~
421
48
O
N
23
22
27
b
2
30 66 1119 112 15
**
3
20 21
»
4
G
I
14
10
19
22
1
..
13 22
د.
50 52
27
27
N
IN
C
211
:
te
•
00
6
no
29
3. 81
(21:26)
367
7
810
56..
367
103
800
28
95
2
المسلم
25
2
12
10
9
2
to
19
~
19
22
28..
2
3
to
..
:
2 1
N
2 2
3
I
15 11 1
CO
8 Y
2
tú
85 81
16
221
7.114.
300 389
33
319 374
30
5. 6..
ત્ય
346
866
15
368
31
22
9
14
H
US
N
16 18 4 12
w
227 239
98
Cases reported.
1886.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No.
of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases
reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged,
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases
reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted. No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted. No. of Persons discharged. Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged. Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted. No. of persons discharged. Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Mendicants.
Unlicensed
Hawking.
Cries.
Breach of Spirits
and Opium Ordinances.
Breach of Registration. Ordinance.
TABLE B.
RETURN of MISCELLANEOUS OFFENCES reported to have been committed during the Year 1886, with the Results of such Reports.
Street
Desertion, Refusal and Neglect of
Rogues,
Vagabonds
and
Suspicious
Breach of
Public
Vehicles
Duty.
Characters.
Ordinance.
Breach of
Merchant
Shipping
Consolidation
Ordinance.
Breach of
Police,
Gaol
and
Deportation
Ordinances.
Breach of
Pawnbrokers,
Markets and
Woights and
Measures
Ordinances.
Intimidation, Exportation, Bribery and
Conspiracy.
Cutting
Trees
or
Earth.
Obtaining Goods and
Money
by False
Pretences.
Trespass.
Spurious Coin.
Damage to I'roperty.
.Attempt to
commit Sniede.
Animals.
Cruelty to
Contempt of Court, Perjury or False Charge.
Breach of
Dangerous Goods Ordinances.
Totals.
TOTAL.. 219 228 28 872 802 202792904111 167 17527 648
Police Department, Hongkong, 22nd January, 1887.
1353
17 14 185 | 187 13
801756 104 2 2.. 33 32 54 821 | 331
818173
}
2
2126 13812 48 28
a One case undecided.
1
4
13 [128] 7 [13] 3 [10] 31 42
~1
|52|61| 3|52|55|17 6 5 28,7351,209 116
443
TABLE C.
COMPARATIVE RETURN of OFFENCES coming under the Notice of the POLICE, during the Years 1884, 1885, and 1886.
SERIOUS.
NUMBER OF PERSONS
NUMBER OF CASES.
DESCRIPTION.
Convicted.
Discharged.
1884. 1885. 1886. | 1881. | 1885. | 1886. | 1884. | 1885. | 1886.
· MINOR.
NUMBER OF PERSONS
NUMBER OF CASES.
DESCRIPTION.
Convicted.
Discharged,
3
3
:
96
64
18
2.6
8
35
93
68
*12*
Assault,
15
Gambling,
6
Miscellaneous,
I
Drunkenness,
53
78
4.
25
68
39
60
Nuisance,..
17
10
16 13
28
20
10
No Pass or Light,
229 291
262 165 287 109
96
65
45
2,1531,927 1,898 949 952 898 322 300 278 84 32 36 .70 19
2,652 2,466 2,500 1,297 1,298 1,389
560
561
472
40
40
Murder,.
Robbery with Violence from the Person,
52
Burglary or Larceny from Dwelling, Assault with Intent to Rob,.
47
Kidnapping.
32
Piracy,
ཨཱཡཾ པདི 1 ལུཿ12| འོ
Unlawful Possession.
Larcenics,..
Felonies not already given,
་ ་ ་ ་
298
55
Total,.
Total,..
1884. 1885. 1886. | 1884. 1885. 1886. | 1884. 1885. į 1886.
1,118
104
7531,0311,513
255 248 594
2,441
9731,486 397 273 225 786 762 124 58 31 1,901 (3,735 2,6361,998 | 4,209 581 426 416 202 323 373 790 690 470 No analysis of Convictions & Discharges.
2,896 387 479
7,551 | 4,809. | 6,386 | 4,743 |3.707|6,457 |1,102 757
1886-Total Number of Cases 8,836, being an Increase of 2,061 Cases or 30.42 per cent. over 1885. Increase of Serious Crimes 34 Cases or 1.37 per cent.
Increase of Minor Offences 2,027 Cases or 47.04 per cent.
Police Department, Hongkong, 22nd January, 1887.
672
444
YEAR.
TABLE D.
1.-RETURN of SERIOUS OFFENCES reported to the POLICE, during the 10 Years ending 1886, showing the Number of Prisoners Arrested, Convicted and Discharged.
Murder.
Robbery with Violence
from
the Person.
Burglary
and
Larceny in
Assault with
Intent to Rob.
Dwelling House.
Kidnapping.
Piracy.
Unlawful Possession.
Felonies
Larceny.
not already given.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Total No. arrested.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Total No. arrested.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Total No. arrested.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged. Total No. arrested.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Total No. arrested.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
1877,
20
:
2
21
17 2 19 79 12
12
1878,
7
1
35
12 2
14131 49 5 54
:
1879,
4
39
10
20
223
30 101
44 9 53 1
1880,
25
:
16
3
19 53 31 10
41 2
ลง
1881,
2
Ι 19 15
00
23 60 34
Co
421
:
:
:
01
No. of Persons discharged.
Total No. arrested.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Total No. arrested.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons discharged.
Total No. arrested.
Cases reported.
No. of Persons convicted
No. of Persons discharged.
Total No. arrested.
*51
1
3232
73
35
86
71
9
:
309
291
105
396
1,437
813
31
69:100
8
7
470 410
166
576
1.888
1,037
304
192 | 1,005.32 | 26
1,341
4 30
J
19 10
18 28
38
40 78
7
71 333 -302 105 407
1,850
972
302 1,274
11
5
10
7
12
G5
:
50
35
63
**
68 43 111 11
12 50 62 226 181
70
201
1,662 898 239 1,137 6
15 16
98
7
t-
12
*
2 303 307
53
.360 1,879: 979 280 1.2391 9 7
t-
5
12
Total,.
19 11
N
13 1139
70 | 35105424|170| 32 202 1
1882,
10
2
доменов
1
30 21 6 27 91 49
65
27
26
76 1
1888,
*2
2
30 17
15
1884.
4
26
26
52 18 8 26
.1885.
1886.
:
2
2
961 70
N
2
64 33
15
58
35105
32 81 21
47 15 9 24 2
67 28 7 85 3 48 63 32 6 38 1
1
25
--
1
55
30
55
29
1
:
1
32
89
53 25 GO
5 1
6
78 63
LO
N
3|292 | 207 | 251 | 458
42
195
31
66
7811,641 |1,491
499 1,9908,716| 4,699; 1,297
3,996| 77
49 49 98
59
8 8 8 3
888
10
00
11
14
275 239
76
4:2 49
13 + 8
12
254
217
81
43
85
55118 10']
9 16 28 44 298 17 13 20 33 229
10 11 291
165
287
3152,104 1,053 |
298 1,980 887 262 109 871 2,153 949 96 261 1,927 952 65 352 1,898 898
344 | 1,397
312 1,199 8225
322 1,271
33
3 3
10
36
46
22
55 32
19
300 1,252 | 45| 36
278 1,176 84 70
40
229 g
47
51
76
40 {110
Total,..
14
30
33 272 159 79 238354|145| 53 | 198 11
7 4
11 1248 | 128 | 255 | 383 | 54
87
77 114 1,347 | 1,170
427 1,597 10,062 4,739 1,556|6,295 |299 | 173 | 157 | 330
Average of 1st period............ Average of 2nd period..
!
8.8 2.2 0.4 2.6 27.8 14.0 7.0 21.0 84.8 34.0 6.4 10.4 0.8 2.8 0.26.06.6 54.4 31.8 15.8 47.6 70.8 29.0 10.6 39.6 2.2
125.6
76.6
0.2 0.4 0.6 58,4 41.4 50.2 91.6 8.4 6.2 13.2 15.6 328.2 296,2 1.4 0.8 2.2 49.6 25.6 51.0 10.87.4 15.4 22.8|269.4 | 234.0
* In one case the Murderer committed Suicide.
99.8 [398.0 [1743,2 | 939.8 | 259.41199.2|15,4| 9,8| 9,8|19.6 85.4319.4 2012.4 947.8 | 311.2|1259.0 59.8 34.6 81.4 [66.0
445
1882,
1883,
1884,
1885,
1886,
Total,..
1877,
1878,
1879;
1880,
1881,
YEAR.
Cases
reported.
No. of Persons convicted.
No. of Persons
discharged.
Total No.
arrested.
Cases
reported.
No. of Persons
convicted.
D.
1
2.-RETURN of MINOR OFFENCES reported to the POLICE, during the 10 Years ending 1886, showing Number of Prisoners Arrested, Convicted and Discharged.
ASSAULT.
GAMBLING.
MISCELLANEOUS.
DRUNKEN-
NUISANCES.
NESS.
NO LIGHT
OR PASS.
No. of Persons
discharged.
Total No.
arrested.
Cases
reported.
No. of Persons. convicted.
Total,.
4,204
6,100
1,512 7,612
1,547
3,441
755
4,196
9,003
9,446
1,685
11,131
1,890
1,81
3,654
841
1,282
281 1,563
282
497
146
643
2,073
2,012
275
2,287
464
611
875 1.289
318 1,607
1,151
353
585
125
710 1,794
1,965
332
2,297
512
355
335
838 1,134
376
1,510
157
499
185
684 1,442
1,717
337
2,054
301
232
762
746
965
310.
1,275
358
814
191
1,005
1,815
1,769
374
2,143
276.
329
904 1,430
840
227
1,657
397
1,046
108
1,154
1,879
1,983
367
2,350
337
284
566
No. of Persons discharged.
Total No.
arrested.
754
730
1,089
317
1,406
261
693
147
840
1,750
1,820
382
2,202
276
263
424
852
299 1,151
$6
358
166
524
2,629
2,804 559 3,363
158
527
1,135
1,118
1,513
397 1,910
104
594
124
718
2,441
2,636
581
3,217
202
790
2,896
753
973
278 1,246
255
736
58
794
1,901
1,998
426 2,424
328
690
387
1,031
1,486
225
1,711
248
762
31
793
3,735
4,209
416 4,626
373
470
479
Average of 1st period,....
Average of 2nd period,.
840.8 1,220.0
877.2 | 1,182.6
302.4 1,522.4 309.4 688.2
151.0
839.2
1,800.6 1,889.2
337.0 | 2,226.2
378.0-
362.2
730.8
302.2
1,484.8 190.8 628.6 105.2
733.8
2,491.2 | 2,693.4
472.8 3,166.4
266.4
548.0
1,064.2
4,386
5,913 1,511 7,424
954
3,143
526
8,669
12,456
18,467
2,364 15,832
1,332
2,7-40
5,321
Cases reported.
Cases
reported.
Cases
reported.
446
447
In 1877,
D.
3.-CASES REPORTED TO POLICE.
SERIOUS OFFENCES.
.2,596 cases.
.1,966 cases.
In 1882,
""
1878,
.2,611
""
,,
1883,
""
1879,
"
وو
1880, 1881,
..2,397 .2,051 .2,329
29
19
1884,
"
3:
1885,
1886,
11,354 cases.
MINOR OFFENCES.
In 1877,
.5,422 cases.
In 1882,
1878,
.4,224
1883,
27
1879,
""
""
1884,
1880,
وو
""
1885,
1881,
"
1886,
In 1877,
.3,732 .4,364 .4,367
22,109 cases.
.7,388 cases.
.6,835
.6,129.
Altogether.
In 1882,
29
1878,
""
1883,
1879,
""
1884,
**
1880,
.6,415
33
1885,
33
1881,
.6,696
"J
35
1886,
دو
33,463 cases.
.2,423
.2,652
.2,466
.2,500
12,637 cases..
Increase of 11.29 per cent. in second period.
..3,728 cases.
..5,265
"
7.551 4,309 .6.336
""
22
27,189 cases.
Increase of 22.98 per cent. in second period.
.6,324 cases.
.7,688
.10,203
.6,775
瞬瞬
.8,836
39,826 cases.
Increase of 19.04 per cent. in second period.
4.-DETAIL OF CASES REPORTED TO POLICE.
SERIOUS OFFENCES.
1877 to 1881.
1. Murder,
19
Yearly Average.
3.8
1882 to 1886.
Yearly Average.
14
2.8
2. Robbery with Violence,
3. Burglaries & Larcenies in Dwellings,
4. Assault with Intent to Rob,
139
27.8
272
54.4
424
84.8
354
70.8
4
0.8
11
2.2
5. Kidnapping,
292
58.4
248
49.6
6. Piracy,
42
8.4
54
10.8
7. Unlawful Possession,
.1,641
328.2
1,347
269.4
8. Larcenies,
.8,716
1,743.2
10,062
9. Felonies not already given,
77
15.4
299
2,012.4 59.8
MINOR OFFENCES.
1877 to 1881.
Yearly Average.
1882 to 1886.
Yearly Average.
10. Assault,
.4,204
840.8
11. Gambling,
12. Miscellaneous,
13. Drunkenness,
14. Nuisances,
15. No Pass or Light,
.1,547
309.4
4,386 954
877.2
190.8
.9,003
1,800.6
12,456
2,491.2
.1,890
378.0
1,332
266.4
.1,811
362.2
2,740
548.0
.3,654
730.8
5,321
1,064.2
In 1877,
1878,
"J
,, 1879,
""
1880,
» 1881,
In 1877,
99
1878, .....
39
1879,
1880,
""
» 1881,
5.—NUMBER OF PRISONERS ARRESTED BY POLICE.
FOR SERIOUS Offences.
.1,537 cases.
In 1882,
.2,125
1883,
22
""
.1,866 .1,638 .1,796
1884,
وو
"
39
"
1885, 1886,
8,962 cases.
FOR MINOR OFFENCES.
Excepting Nos. 13, 14 and 15 (See Table 2) of which no datails are given.
4,493 cases.
In 1882,
.4,614
"
1883,
.4,248
>>
""
1884,
.4,423 .....5,161
21
>>
1885,
""
"
1886,.
1,966 cases.
..1.663
23
.1,857
.1,859 .1,861
"
"
J
9,206 cases.
4,448 cases. .5,038 ..5,845 .1,464 .7,129
"
27
25
وو
22,939 cases.
Altogether excepting Nos. 13, 14 and 15.
26,924 cases.
In 1877,
.6,030 cases.
1878,
.6,739
1879,
.6,114
""
19
1880,
...6,061
1881,
...6,957
31,901 cases.
In 1882,
وو
1883,
1884,
1885,
21
1886,
6,414 cases.
.6,701 -7,702 .6,323 .8,990
39
29
""
36,130 cases.
.
448
6.-DETAILS OF NUMBER OF PRISONERS ARRESTED. FOR SERIOUS OFFENCES.
1. Murder,
2. Robbery with Violence from Person,
3. Burglaries and Larcenies from Dwellings,.
4. Assault with Intent to Rob,
5. Kidnapping,
6. Piracy,
7. Unlawful Possession,
8. Larcenies,
9. Felouies not given,..
10. Assault,
11. Gambling,
12. Miscellaneous, 13. Drunkenness, 14. Nuisances,.
15. No Pass or Light,
1877 to 1881.
1882 to 1886.
13
33
105
238
202
198
11
458
383
78
114
1,990
1,597
5,996
6,295
98
330
8,943
9,199
FOR MINOR OFFENCES.
1877 to 1881.
1882 to 1886.
7,612
7,424
4,196
3,669
11,131
15,832
1,890
1,332
1,811
2,740
3,654
5,321
30,291
36,318
7.-NUMBER OF PERSONS CONVICTED AND DISCHARGED.
FOR SERIOUS OFFENCES.
Convicted.
Discharged.
Convicted.
Discharged.
In 1877,
1,196
341
In 1882,
.1,405
561.
""
1878,
.1,554
571
1883,
.1,178
485
1879.
1,381
485
1884,
1,297
560
1880,
1,208
430
1885,
..1,298
561
1881,
....1,390
406
3
1886,
.1,389
472.
6,729
2,283
6.567
2,639
FOR MINOR OFFENCES.
Convicted.
Discharged.
Convicted.
Discharged.
In 1877,
.8,791
702
In 1882,
3,602
846
1878,
.3,839
775
""
23
1883,
1,014
1,024
1879,
.3,350
898
1884,
""
23
4,743
1,102
25.
1880,
.3,548
875
1885,
3,707
757
1881,
.4,459
702
1886.
:
.6,457
672
18,987
3,952
22,523
4,401
Altogether excepting Nos. 13, 14 and 15.
Convicted.
Discharged.
Convicted.
Discharged.
In 1877,
.4,987
1,043
In 1882,
.5,007
1,407
1878,
.5,393
1,346
ود
1883,
..5,192
1,509
1879,
.4,781
1,383
1884,
..6,040
1,662
>>
1880,
.4,756
1,305
1885.
.5,005
1,318
1881,
.5,849
1,108
1886,
.7,846
1,144
"
25,716
6,185
29,090
7,040
TABLE E.
RETURN shewing the ENLISTMENTS and CASUALTIES in the Police Force during 1886.
Enlistments. Deaths.
Resignations through sickness.
Resignations through expiry of term of service or otherwise.
Dismissals.
Desertions.
Total number of casualties.
Europeans,
19
Indiaus,.
59
Chinese...
98
1
14
4
27
10
2
10
22
2
30
66
}
103
TOTAL,......
176
14
5
54
78
1
152
Police Office, Hongkong, 22nd January, 1887.
1
243
No. 7.
→
HONGKONG.
THE POSTMASTER GENERAL'S REPORT FOR 1886.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 14th January, 1887.
GENERAL POST OFFICE, HONGKONG, January 1st, 1887.
SIR,-I have the honour to report upon the working of the Post Office in Hongkong and China during the year 1886.
2. The exchange of Parcels with the United Kingdom established towards the end of 1885 has worked with great regularity and smoothness, whilst the steadily increasing numbers of parcels forwarded show that it is appreciated by the public. During the year under review 3,136 parcels have been forwarded from Hongkong to London, whilst 3,516 have been received, making a total of 6,652 parcels exchanged, almost without a complaint of any kind. There have been, of course, as it was foreseen there would be, a few false alarms * of missing parcels, and early in the year some parcels were damaged by an accident on the mail steamer. The damage, however, was trifling, and compensation was paid in the only case where real harm was done. By the last mail in the year several parcels were received in a damaged state from having been put into a box with a package con- taining pomatum, which had of course melted, and which should not have been forwarded, unless in soldered tin. As far as is known at present, even in this case no serious damage resulted to the con- tents of the parcels. With these exceptions the parcels have all turned out in good order. It is observed that books are now often sent by Parcel Post, presumably because they do not get knocked about as do articles which are forwarded in mail bags. The London Post Office complains of the insecure way in which many parcels are packed by the senders, leading to the breakage of their con- tents on the way, and also of the inaccuracy with which contents are described.
Thus a parcel stated by the sender to contain silk handkerchiefs and a gold ring is found on examination to contain six silk handkerchiefs, a tea cosy, a gold ring, a bead necklace, a puzzle and a pair of ivory solitaires. Perhaps this notice may tend to induce more care as to both of these matters.
►
•
3. The limit of weight for parcels to the United Kingdom and a good many other countries has been raised from 7 to 11 lb., whilst facilities have been provided for forwarding parcels to most of the countries of Europe, to Egypt, and to a good many British Colonies. Direct parcel exchanges with Malta and Gibraltar have also been established. Negotiations have been commenced with several of the Australian Colonies for the establishment of an exchange of parcels, and these are progressing favourably.
4. The number of Transit Parcels, as they are called (that is of parcels sent to or from Colonies and foreign countries through London) has not been great. Possibly the circuitous route, and the necessarily somewhat high charges may have acted as deterrents. The following return shows the exchanges of Transit Parcels for the year.
Sent. Recd.
2
Sent. Recd.
Sent. Recd.
Ascension.
1
Denmark
6
Malta...
Austria...
1
Belgium
3
Egypt.... Germany
4
Norway
153
Sweden
British Guiana... 1
...
Gibraltar......
2
2
Switzerland....
Canada
5
Holland
3
1
Trinidad
Cape Colony...... 6 2
Jamaica
1
Victoria (Austr.)
...
8
...
8
...
7
1
Totals,......212 6
5. By far the greater number of parcels sent home contain presents of some kind, whilst the greater number of those sent out contain supplies, such as hosiery, clothing, &c. The largest parcel mail despatched was that of November 8th (the Christmas mail) by which 314 parcels, weighing 588 lb. (net) † were forwarded. The largest parcel mail received was that which arrived here on December 17th, with 246 parcels weighing 642 mb.
6. A new mail service between Bremerhaven, Brindisi, Shanghai and Japan has been commenced by the packets of the North German Lloyds line. The fact that these packets start only once every four weeks, and that their departures from China coincide very nearly with those of the French mails
* Every week a sheaf of letters is received from various Post Offices representing that this or that Registered Article has not reached its destination. The same stereotyped answer is always sent, that it was delivered on such a day, and that the addressee signed a receipt for it. Nothing further is ever heard of these complaints, which generally arise from the senders' not having allowed time for the arrival of the corres- pondence. A case was recently noticed in which a person resident in France had registered a letter for Peking, and then within one week from the date of posting had complained of its non-delivery there.
With the boxes, these parcels weighed nearly half a ton.
244
prevents this line being a very important factor in the mail routine, but it has been possible to establish, by its means, a direct Parcel Post to most countries of the Continent of Europe. There was no parcel post to several important European countries (France for instance) whilst the others were served by a circuitous route viâ Gibraltar and London. Only six parcels were despatched by the German Packet which left on December 27th. It might be well for German residents in China, who are desirous of getting out any small articles from Germany, to let their friends in that country know that they can now forward parcels not exceeding three kilogrammes in weight to Hongkong or Chinese ports at a fixed postage of Fr. 4.25 per parcel.
7. The following figures as to the arrivals of the first two German mails in London may be of interest.
French Mail......
German Mail. French Mail.............
Left Hongkong September 2.
.September 3.
.September 30.
Arrived in London
Days
October 4
313
October 5
312
November 1
32
November 4
German Mail
October 1.
34
8. A correspondence has taken place between the Imperial Post Office, the Colonial Office, and this Government, as to the renewal of the Contract for transporting the English mails between Brindisi and Shanghai. There were only three offers, those, namely, of the P. & O. Co., of Mr. ALFRED HOLT, and of the Canadian Pacific Railway Company. One of the tenders of the first-named Company has been accepted, the mails to be carried for £265,000 a year for ten years. The report of this Department on the subject will be found in the Appendix (B).
9. Although the proposed trans-pacific line of steamers between Hongkong and British Columbia will not do much for this Colony so far as postal matters are concerned, its establishment is to be desired on many other grounds. Since the Pacific mail packets commenced running between this port and San Francisco, correspondence with Canada has increased in the most marked manner, chiefly owing no doubt to the numbers of Chinese who have settled in Victoria (B. C.) and elsewhere.
10. The dispute between the Pacific mail Company and the United States Government, which led to the discontinuance of carrying inward mails from San Francisco by the Company's vessels, has been adjusted, and the mails now arrive by every steamer from San Francisco as before. The inconvenience of having the return mails frequently despatched from here on the day fixed for the leaving of the English or French packet still continues.
11. There has been no extension of Money Order business during the year, which is not a matter of regret, as the Money Order system was really growing too fast for the limited resources of the Department to keep pace with it. It has been found absolutely necessary to have more clerical assistance in the Money Order Office, and this has been provided without very much difficulty. The want of room, however, is increasingly and severely felt, and a simple remedy is not so easy to devise. The business of the Money Order Office, like too much of the work of this Department, is carried on in a dark and crowded corner, where literally there is often not room to turn, and where every square inch is economised as if it were a ship's cabin.
·
1
12. This want of room is yearly becoming a more serious question. The Sanitary Board has pointed out that the quarters inhabited by the Chinese staff are overcrowded. They certainly are according to European ideas, even according to Chinese ideas there is not much room to spare.
When foreign countries begin to claim their International right to have direct Parcel exchanges with Hongkong, it will be very difficult to see where the necessary room is to come from. A little additional space may be gained by building, and by a re-arrangement of verandahs &c., and then (unless it were possible to put on an additional storey) the limit will have been reached, and at much sacrifice of light and air. The Colony will be face to face with a demand for a new Post Office. The present building was finished in 1865, and was evidently intended to be final. When the office is rebuilt it should be constructed, not for existing needs, but for those of twenty years later.
13. The Secretary of State has consented, in view of the representations of this Department, to allow the employment of unsalaried probationers, in the Post Office only. Postal work is distinctly work which has to be learnt, a beginner, however intelligent, is somewhat worse than useless; he gets in the way, has to be shown everything, and he makes mistakes. Hence the desirability of having an extra hand always in training, so that when a vacancy does occur it has not to be filled by a raw recruit. 14. It may perhaps be permissible to point out how, in this Office, unlike most other Post Offices, everything has to be filtered through two languages, one of which at least is but very imperfectly understood by many of the clerks who use it. At home a postman reads the address on a letter and delivers it accordingly. Here he depends on one or two hastily written Chinese characters, and if there happens to be a similarity in sound between the name as dictated, or as written, and some other name (Hooper and Cooper, Tai-kù and Tai-kun for instance) the chances of a mistake are very great.
* A letter was handed to a Chinese postman who was told to take it to Mr. X. "Do you mean long-bearded X?" he asked. The name being one that did not lend itself to Chinese pronunciation, the soubriquet of long-bearded X. had been invented to prevent errors. The same difficulty applies to names of streets, &c. Richmond Terrace is called the New six houses, West Terrace the Old six houses, the Albany is Figure 1 Row (because of its shape). Pedder's Hill is the Two Flagstaffs (tingh there are no flagstaffs there now), the Wellington Barracks are called after a Chinese character() which their ground plan is supposed to resemble.
C
1
245
15. A Committee consisting of the Acting Harbour Master, the Director of the Observatory, and the Postmaster General was appointed to examine into the question of signalling the English mails from Kowloon Point. It was found impossible to devise any efficient and inexpensive signal which would not clash with the weather signals made at that station. It was therefore recommended that the use of the Kowloon Point gun for mail signals should be discontinued. Fortunately no inconvenience has arisen from the arrival of an unsignalled mail, a circumstance which may be due to an unusual freedom from fog during the year. It is to be hoped that some day all difficulties of this kind will be obviated by telegraphic communication with the projected Gap Rock lighthouse, which would give the community here four hours notice of the approach of the mail.
16. In the meantime a direct telephone line between this Office and the Peak signal station is much to be desired. What with clouds, night-fall, flags blowing straight on end, and other circumstances, the Post Office too often obtains. the minimum rather than the maximum of information from the Peak.
17. There have been two casualties during the year. The steamer Douglas was lost on February 10th with coast mails on board, which were not recovered. Communication between the Coast Ports and Hongkong having been interrupted for several days by the Chinese New Year holidays. the mails were unfortunately exceptionally heavy. The Madras was lost with a mail for this Office from Nagasaki. Most of the correspondence was subsequently recovered by H. M. S. Midge, and forwarded to destination.
18. The service to Japan has gone on fairly well, the mails having been forwarded without many excessive delays. The English mail of January 22nd was sent on to Kobe in the City of Rio (viâ Yokohama). It would have been better to keep it here a couple of days longer for the Zambesi, but at the time of its despatch it was not known when that vessel would start. The English mail of September 3 was sent to Yokohama in the Claymore, whereas it should have been kept for the Stettin. The German service was a little new at the time, the Stettin was not notified, and it escaped notice that there would be a German Packet leaving within a day or two. As far as is known these were the only occasions on which this Office failed to secure the earliest opportunity for a mail for Japan except one instance (the French mail for Yokohama of October 22nd) in which it was so doubtful which steamer would arrive first that this office would not take the responsibility of diverting the mail from its ordi- nary route via Kobe. Against these may be set the fact that, on July 13th, the Agent of the Pacific Mail Co. courteously detained the San Pablo for the arrival of the English mail, thus saving the Yokohama community a delay of probably at least two days.
19. The abolition of accounts with the London Office, referred to in the last Annual Report as under consideration, has been carried out, and our relations with the United Kingdom are now simply those of the Postal Union, with a special payment of £6,000 a year in addition. The saving of labour, copying, &c. is very considerable.
20. The state of several of our Postal Agencies, specially those of Amoy and Foochow, was taken into serious consideration by the Government on the earnest representations of this Department. It was felt that the existing condition of affairs could not be allowed to go on, and that, unsatisfactory as it might be for Hongkong to be saddled with the whole expense of improving these Agencies, improved they must be-or abolished. The Estimates for this year would accordingly have embodied provision for a considerable increase of staff at Amoy, had not a proposal been made which promised an entirely new departure.
21. This was a proposal from Mr. Commissioner KOPSCH, on behalf of the Chinese Government, to take over, as a step towards the establishment of a national Post Office, the Postal work carried on by this Government at eight of the Treaty Ports of China. The report of this Department on that proposal will be found in the Appendix ( C ́).
22. Mr. KOPSCH's scheme has of course raised much discussion, especially in Shanghai, where a public meeting was convened to consider the matter. The tone both of this meeting, and of the articles and correspondence in the newspapers, was most fair, reasonable, and moderate. Some of the objections raised possess much force, though only one has as yet been put forward which can be regarded as a real obstacle to the proposal.
23. How China may elect to develop her Postal system is not in any special way the affair of Hongkong, but a single remark on the subject may perhaps be allowable. To demand that so huge an Empire shall be covered with a network of courier services organised by the Imperial Government before that Government may attempt the much more modest task of carrying on the small coast service at present conducted by this Colony, is, as one of the speakers at Shanghai graphically put it, like insisting that a boy shall not go near the water till he has learned to swim. Any successful postal system in China must begin from the coast, and with steamer communication. It may then possibly be pushed up the rivers as steamers are admitted to them, and extended to a few of the shorter land routes, especially as railways are introduced. To make haste slowly should be the motto, and the avoidance of huge schemes like a pestilence the policy of the Chinese Post Office of the immediate future.
* These remarks must not be taken as implying any reflection on the officers in charge of the Agencies in question, whose only fault was their inability to do impossibilities, or to be in two places at once.
1
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24. Should the proposal of the Chinese Government not be accepted, it will be absolutely necessary to improve our Postal Agencies. They cannot be left as they are. On the other hand, no suggestion to open additional agencies at the expense of this Government should be entertained.
25. The time has perhaps arrived when something should be done to bring the Chinese correspon- dence transmitted to and from this Colony more under control. There can be no doubt that the revenue suffers serious loss from the smuggling of thousands of Chinese letters, not to Chinese ports where there is no national Post Office to receive them, but to San Francisco, Australia, the Straits Settlements, and other places where efficient Post Offices exist. The subject is surrounded with difficulties, and the sweeping measures so often advocated, besides being ruinously expensive, would make the Postal Department here a nuisance and a hindrance to trade which would not be tolerated for a week. The function of a Post Office is to facilitate, not to hinder business. Proposals of a practical nature have, as you are aware, been submitted to the Government in this matter, and they are at present under consideration.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
·
The Honourable F. STEWART,
Acting Colonial Secretary, &c.,
&c.,
&c.
Your obedient Servant,
A. LISTER. Postmaster General.
APPENDIX.
(A.)-APPROXIMATE STATISTICS FOR THE YEAR 1886. Supplied to the International Bureau of the Postal Union, Berne.
INTERNATIONAL.
LOCAL.
COMPARISON WITH 1885.
DESCRIPTION OF CORRESPONDENCE.
TOTAL.
De- spatched.
Received.
De- spatched.
Received.
Total in 1885.
Increase. Decrease.
Ordinary paid letters,
Unpaid and short paid Articles,
538,500 403,700 61,100
52,600 1,055,900 | 1,095,000
* 39,100
9,600
22,300
2,400
15,800
50,100
46,000
Letters on Postal Business,
4,100
1,100
600
1,200
1,100
4,000
4,350
* 350
Post Cards,
4,300
2,500
2,100
1,000
9,900
13,000
*
Do. with prepaid reply,
3,100
Newspapers and Periodicals,.
118,700
243,200 35,100
15,000
412,000
510,000
*
Books, Circulars, Prices Current, &c.,
197,300
8 2,000
14,000
10,800
304,100
410,000
Patterns.
4,800
2,900
300
8,000
Commercial Papers,
16,160
*
98,000 *.105,900
8,160.
Registered Articles,
21,700
30,300
3,400
3,500
58,900
57,874
Letters with value declared,
1;026
Registered Articles with Return Receipt;.
Parcels,
200 3,136
4,200
3,516
386868
50
50
4.500
2,262
2,238
888
8,506
1,570
6,936
*The figures in the above table are obtained by multiplying the amount of correspondence forwarded during 28 days by 13. The results are very fortuitous and these decreases are probably more apparent than real. The sale of postage stamps, a much more satisfactory test, shows a steady increase.
(B.)
No. 33.
GENERAL POST OFFICE, HONGKONG, June 16th, 1886.
SIR,-I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter No. 939 of yesterday's date, referring to me for an early report the Secretary of State's Despatch No. 57 of May 14, with its enclosures respecting the proposed new contract for the Eastern Mail Service.
2. This subject has been so long under discussion, and is presented by the London Post Office in so clear a light, that there appears to be no doubt as to the course the Colony should pursue. In recommending that the Telegram enclosed in draft should be forwarded without delay, I have the pleasure of knowing that I am in accord with the views of the Legisla- tive Council and of the Chamber of Commerce.
3. That draft Telegram deals with four points.
(1.) The best tender to accept.
(2.) The contribution of Hongkong. (3.) The Canadian route.
(4.) The hour of departure from Hongkong.
4. As to the best tender to accept, Lord WOLVERTON's lucid report leaves no question open. I am very glad to see that no experiments are to be tried in the way of leaving the mails to be conveyed, on any portion of the route, by chance
steamers.
247
5. As to the contribution of Hongkong, the Colonial Office has already raised the question whether, if the Imperial Government effects a saving, the Colonies should not share it. The Imperial Treasury replies, Ceylon, yes; Singapore and Hongkong, no. Hongkong's equitable share of the loss was assessed at £12,000 odd, and the Colony has been allowed to pay only £6,000. Unless the saving to the Imperial Government amounted to lowering the expenditure by more than half, this sum could not be reduced. This appears to be a fair way of regarding the matter, and I think this Colony should be content to stipulate that it is not to be asked for more than £6,000.
.
6. As to the Canadian route, the Imperial Post Office confirms what I have held since first I looked into the proposal. The service would be slower by three days than that viâ Suez, and unless fortnightly, and timed to alternate regularly with the French packets, could not possibly replace those of the P. & O. As an alternative route it might be of some service, but unless the homeward packet left here within three days of the departure of the English and French Mails, even this small advantage would be lost.
7. The question of the hour of departure may seem a small one, but it is not so in reality, for it must be remembered that any inconvenience caused by an unsuitable hour will recur fortnightly till it is removed. It is better therefore to attend to the point now than to have discontent and memorialising by and by. It is very desirable that the P. & O. packets, like those of the Messageries line, should leave at noon. The hour of departure of the French packets cannot be altered, on account of saving daylight at the mouth of the Saigon river. Having consulted with Mr. McEwEN, the only member of the Chamber of Commerce I can get hold of this morning, I consider that a uniform noon departure of both mails would meet the wishes of the business and general community, and would do away with the long and fatiguing day now caused fortnightly by the later hour fixed for the departure of the English Mail.
The Honourable F. STEWART,
Acting Colonial Secretary.
(C.)
I have &c.,
A. LISTER, Postmaster General,
No. 29.
GENERAL POST OFFICE, HONGKONG, May 26th, 1886.
SIR, I have the honour to enclose a copy of a letter addressed to me by Mr. H. KOPSCH, one of the Commissioners of Customs under the Chinese Government, and a special Commissioner for Postal purposes in China. Mr. KOPSCH enquires whether, in view of an extension to all the Treaty Ports of the Customs Postal Service which has been for some years in existence in China, and the intended establishment of a Chinese national Post Office, this Department will withdraw its Postal Agencies from the Ports of Hoihow, Canton, Swatow, Amoy, Foochow, Ningpo, and Hankow, and its Post Office from Shanghai.
2. I enclose a copy of the reply I forwarded to Mr. KopSCH, pointing out that these Agencies are in reality Agencies of the Imperial Post Office.
3. As His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government will probably think it necessary to refer this matter to the Secretary of State for the Colonies, for the consideration of the Imperial Post Office, I permit myself to offer a few words on this proposal.
4. It seems to me that one main consideration should be kept in view, namely the convenience and welfare of the communities at the various Treaty Ports, which perhaps include more of our fellow-countrymen than of any other nation, the convenience and welfare of their correspondents in other parts of the world, and the interests of trade. The experience of more than eleven years in dealing with the only organised Post Offices in the Far East (until the Japanese Offices were established) convinces me that it is desirable in these interests to accept the proposal of the Chinese Government if possible. 5. Extra-territorial Post Offices may be described as necessary evils, and evils which should be got rid of as soon as the necessity for their continuance is removed. The objections to them must be so well known to H. M. Government that I need not here recapitulate them. In China they have certainly been free from one disadvantage attaching to them elsewhere-they have not, hitherto, wounded national susceptibility. But it is quite possible they may eventually do so, and that before very long.
6. The Hongkong Government maintains, under very great disadvantages, eight Post Offices in China. They are worked (except at Shanghai) by Consular Officers, whose Consular duties naturally have to take precedence. Able and diligent as most of these gentlemen are, their frequent removals, and the pressure of other duties inevitably stand in the way of the attainment of any very high degree of efficiency. By the time a Postal Agent has learnt his duties he is due for transfer to another port.
7. The Post Offices at most of the Ports, being in the Consulates, are too far removed from the business parts of the Settlements to be really efficient. Only this morning, in looking into a question relative to Swatow, I am reminded that a letter cannot be registered there without sending a messenger across a (frequently tempestuous) stretch of sea which under the most favourable circumstances it takes an hour to cross and re-cross.
8. Another great disadvantage is that the Hongkong Government of course cannot enforce any Postal Regulations in Chinese Ports. The residents send their letters by the mail if they think fit to do so; if not, and more generally, they send them on board the steamers. Too often the chief function of the Post Office seems to be to take the blame if anything goes
wrong.
9. The Customs Authorities propose to replace this very inadequate service with Post Offices at 23 ports (including all those at which this Office maintains Agencies). At most if not all of these Ports all the facilities this office can offer would be given to the public, and I cannot doubt that those facilities would eventually be much extended.
•
10. The Customs would bring to the task very much larger staffs, officers on duty night and day, buildings in the heart of the business quarters, steam-launches, facilities for boarding steamers both on arrival and departure, the power of search, and, most important of all, the sanction of the national authority, which would allow of the making and enforcing of regulations, such as exist in most ports elsewhere,
248
11. I am aware that a proposal to hand over Postal business to any one not under the immediate control of the British Government will be regarded by some persons, even by some persons whose opinions are entitled to great respect, with a feeling of little less than horror. Very much the same prejudice existed with regard to the withdrawal of our Post Offices from Japan some years ago. If, since that withdrawal, there has ever been a syllable of complaint from the foreign communities in Japan, I have not heard of it; and if there are Post Offices that do their work better than the Japanese Offices do, I have yet to be made acquainted with them.
12. Moreover the way in which the Customs Postal Agencies have been managed so far (of which I feel I am to some extent in a position to speak), the way in which the whole work of the Customs is done, and the manner in which the lighting of the coast of China has been accomplished and maintained-all these forbid the supposition that Postal work, which only requires ordinary care and attention, would be unsafe in the hands of the Customs establishment.
13. I therefore most cordially recommend the acceptance of the proposal put forward by Mr. KOPSCH. 14. With regard to Mr. KOPSCH's further questions numbered 2 and 3, I may report as follows;—
15. It is not likely that anything can be definitely arranged so early as January, 1887.
16. Supposing foreign Post Offices withdrawn, but China not for some time subsequent to their withdrawal admitted to the Postal Union, the position would be this; China would be a Non-Union Country, the correspondence originating in which would find its way to the rest of the world through two Union Countries, Hongkong and Japan, the bulk of it through Hongkong.
17. It would be far more satisfactory than making any special and temporary arrangements for Hongkong at once to treat China as if it were a Union Country, that is to say:-
(a.) Correspondence posted at Chinese Post Offices would be prepaid in any stamps the Chinese Government chose to use, would be forwarded by Hongkong as paid to destination, and the Chinese Post Office would keep all the sums it collected by way of postage on such correspondence.
(b.) Once a year till China should enter the Postal Union, or once in three years after such entry, observations would be made in Hongkong, during 28 days, of the amount of correspondence originating in China passing through. The totals of these observations would be multiplied by 13.
(c.) China would pay Hongkong the actual sums this Colony would be out of pocket from having forwarded the correspondence at its own expense, plus transit rates of 2 fr. per kilogramme for letters and 25 centimes per kilogramme for other objects. In the case of correspondence made up into closed mails these transit rates would not be charged.
(d.) With regard to correspondence for China from foreign countries, the expenses of transit would be arranged by Hongkong with the countries of origin, which are responsible for such expenses, and the correspondence would reach Chinese Offices as paid.
18. This is precisely the course which has been adopted with regard to the Colony of Macao, the Post Office of which used to be regarded as a kind of semi-recognised agency of this Office. The financial results are, I should imagine, satisfactory to that Colony.
19. A great number of details will require settlement in the event of the acceptance of this proposal, but it is useles, to attempt to deal with them at present. I will only say that I know of none incapable of satisfactory adjustment. Fos the information of the Imperial Post Office I may add that the almost daily communication between this port and Shanghair and the possession by the Chinese Government of a line of steamers will prevent any difficulty as to the conveyance of mails, even if both the English and French Mail lines should cease to operate further than Hongkong..
20. The desirability of simplifying Postal matters at Shanghai, where, in a moderate-sized settlement, there are half a dozen different Post Offices, is a point on which I have reported so often that it is needless now to say more about it.
I have &c.,
A. LISTER, Postmaster General.
The Honourable F. STEWART,
Acting Colonial Secretary.
301
No. 18
87.
HONGKONG.
MEMORANDUM BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE OFFICER ADMINISTERING THE
GOVERNMENT ON THE QUESTION OF THE PRAYA EXTENSION.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His
Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 25th March, 1887. ·
GOVERNMENT HOUSE, HONGKONG, 22nd March, 1887.
1. In 1883, the Surveyor General submitted, at the request of Sir GEORGE Bowen, plan and estimate of an extension of the Praya in front of the Naval and Military Buildings, with the view of providing a public thoroughfare connecting the Eastern and Western parts of the City of Victoria. Seven acres of reclaimed ground would be added to the Naval and Military properties. The cost of this extension of the Praya was estimated by Mr. PRICE, at £45,000.
2. Sir GEORGE BOWEN recommended this scheme to the Secretary of State. He said that the scheme was approved by the Finance Committee on condition, that a. fair proportion of the expense should be borne by the Imperial Government, in, consideration of the valuable extension of ground that it would gain; and he proposed that the Colony should pay two thirds of the cost, and the Imperial Government the rest.
3. The Local, Naval, and Military Authorities, however, did not approve of the Surveyor General's plan, and asked for modifications, which were at first so extensive and costly that the scheme could not be entertained, especially as they refused to pay any part of the cost.
4. Subsequently, however, another plan was proposed by the Naval and Military Authorities which would raise the cost from £45,000 to £64,000. At the same time the Admiral insisted on the Artillery Barracks being handed over by the War Department to the Naval Authorities, free of charge, as an extension of the Naval Yard; the Civil Government having to provide the War Department at its cost with new Barracks for the Artillery, in addition to the whole cost of the extension.
5. A further modification was afterwards proposed by General SARGENT on the recommendation of Colonel WALKER, which would add £7,000 more to the cost, bringing it up to £71,000. (This is described as Plan, No. 3).
6. According to this last plan the Military would gain six acres of reclaimed land and the Naval Authorities two and a half acres, the whole valued by the Surveyor General at £160,000, one hundred and sixty thousand pounds sterling.
7. This last scheme, (No. 3), was finally agreed to by the Military, Colonial, and Naval Authorities, the latter relinquishing their claim to the Artillery Barracks, the only question remaining unsettled being the share of the cost that would be defrayed by each. Both Naval and Military Authorities declined to bear any part of the cost. The Secretary of State for the Colonies on the other hand would only consent to the work being undertaken on condition of the Imperial Govern- ment paying half the cost. This was no doubt in consequence of the original estimate having been raised, in order to meet the convenience of the two Imperial Departinents from £45,000 to £71,000.
302
8. In the present state of the Finances of the Colony it could not, unassisted, undertake to incur the expenditure of even £45,000, the original Estimate. If the whole expense £71,000 is to be borne by the Colonial Government, the work will have to be postponed for ten years at least, if not longer.
9. The present General Officer in Command of the Troops, Major-General CAMERON, C.B., has warmly supported the scheme for the extension of the Praya, and has recommended that a portion of the cost should be borne by the War Office. The Admiralty have, however, not yet given their adherence to a scheme which will deprive the Naval Yard of its water frontage. The last communication from the Admiralty on the subject states that the Lords Commissioners have under their consideration the question of the extension of the Naval Yard, and that until this has been settled, any decision on the various points connected with the proposed extension of the Praya must necessarily be postponed.
W. H. MARSH.
}
(C.S.O. 1214).
87
403
No. 30
87.
HONGKONG.
DR. HO KAI'S PROTEST AGAINST THE PUBLIC HEALTH BILL, SUBMITTED TO THE GOVERNMENT BY THE SANITARY BOARD, AND THE
BOARD'S REJOINDER THERETO.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 27th May, 1887.
DR. HO KAI'S PROTEST.
An Ordinance for amending the Laws relating to Public Health in the
Colony of Hongkong with the Bye-laws made thereunder.
MEMO. OF OBJECTIONS.
+
By this Ordinance and the Bye-laws made hereunder, landed property in this Colony to the extent of millions of dollars will be sacrificed, vested interests greatly interfered with, and public confidence shaken to its foundation. This Ordinance together with its Bye-laws contains nearly all the important provisions of a Building Ordinance sought to be introduced last year into the Legislative Council, and which as soon as was known, created quite a sensation in this Colony. This, self-same Bill without modifications of any importance is now placed under the mighty patronage of the Sanitary Board, through whose vast influence and recommendation its promoters hope for better success.
As a member of the Sanitary Board, I regret that the Bill should have been considered by the present Board and not reserved for the new Board the Municipal Board of Health, the composition of which (as its name implies) partakes of a more representative character. I further regret that an eminently important measure like this should be considered by any public body of men, however influential and scientific, with closed doors and under strict confidence. It is true that the Sanitary Board consider this Bill with the view of recommendation only, and not of definite legislation; that must rest with the Government.
Still if one takes into account the enormous weight and importance which the public as well as the Government attach to the recommendations of the Sanitary Board, it does seem strange that the discussion of an Ordinance of such a sweeping character and paramount importance should not be made public at once, so that its progress from the commencement could be watched by supporters and opponents alike. As it is its opponents are placed at great disadvantage, and as I am only speaking for myself, I must confess I felt oftentimes my extremely difficult position of being isolated from my supporters outside the Board, while those whom I am supposed to represent and whose interest I am bound to protect, knew nothing of the existence and progress of the serious measure that threatens to interfere with their rights and interests in a most arbitrary manner. I am aware of some of the reasons which lead to the consideration of this Bill in private and confidential sittings, the chief being that it was inadvisable to excite unnecessary public feelings and adverse criticism and discussion on the provisions of a Bill which might each or all be modified in its passage through the Sanitary Board. But a little careful consider- ation will show the absurdity of this position. As far as this Bill is concerned, the Sanitary Board has been constituted or has constituted itself the adviser of the Government, and in order to be better enabled to advise, it should receive advice from the public at large, otherwise its recommendations may be unsound and against the public interest. I do not think that the position of a public body is anything the worse by having free and unrestrained public discussion on its proceedings and deliberations. It loses nothing but may gain a great deal of useful information and wisdom, unless it thinks that its members are infallible and its wisdom supreme-a doctrine worthy of the Grand Inquisition of the dark middle ages. Public comment and criticism, I submit, are necessary in this case as well as in any other case, and those who dread these should not become the Champions
ན་ཨི་ནཾ་
404
of the Bill; and moreover, my experience as a member of the Sanitary Board con- vinces me that in many instances public opinion and testimony are urgently requi- red to correct misunderstandings and individual convictions and beliefs. I fancy I have heard mentioned more than once that the Sanitary Board is a scientific body and all it has to consider is purely a matter of Sanitary science, indeed I have been asked repeatedly when offering some opposition to a clause in the Bill, whether as a medical man and a scientist, I did not consider that such and such a thing was desirable and even necessary. My answer has always been and will ever be to this effect-Is the Sanitary Board a scientific as well as practical body of men? Are we met together to discuss matters of Sanitary science purely or practically? If purely, then I agree with every proposition of any scientific importance put forward to the meeting, and further I would add much to the numerous provisions in order to render them more perfect and more scientific. I would advocate every poor family to have its three acres and a cow, a garden, a conservatory and what not, at the expense of the state or the princely merchants and rich landlords. But if practically as well, then I would oppose the many provisions which in my opinion are unnecessary, uneconomical, and unconstitutional. Some Sanitarians are cons- tantly making the mistake of treating Chinese as if they were Europeans. They appear to forget that there are wide constitutional differences between a native of China and one who hails from Europe. They do not allow for the differences of habits, usage, mode of living and a host of other things between the two. They insist upon the theory of treating all nationalities alike however much they may differ from one another physically, mentally, and constitutionally. Hence arise the several provisions in this Ordinance and Bye-laws in question which I have no hesitation in characterising as wholly unnecessary. One might as well insist that all Chinese should eat bread and beefsteak instead of rice and pork, just because the two former articles agree better than the latter with an English stomach. One favorite argument must here be stated and refuted. It has been stated by some advocates of this Bill that the Government is always adverse to anything like class legislation and that any recommendation of the Sanitary Board to that effect would not likely be entertained. This I must confess does remind one of old times when all class legislation was earnestly sought for to be abolished, but with what results I need not mention. Look over our local Ordinances, how many there are still in force which make clear distinctions between Chinese and Europe- ans. It would only be a wasting of time to quote instances. As long as we govern the Chinese according to our promise given while this Colony was yet in its infancy, viz., to govern them as much as possible in accordance with their manners and customs, and to respect their religion and prejudices, we must of a necessity modify our laws in order to meet their peculiar requirements. Besides, does not common sense alone indicate to us the advisability of legislating especially in many cases to suit circumstances and surroundings?
From an economical point of view, the idea of sacrificing the millions of square feet at an average price of $6 to $7, per square foot is even more ridiculous. What is this enforced sacrifice for? Simply for the sake of a theory that the Chinese public require all such Sanitary improvements to promote their health and welfare. But I challenge the soundness of that theory. I say the Chinese in general do not require this sacrifice or even desire it. Let the Government ascer- tain the views of the Chinese public in this matter. I have often been told that I was almost always in a minority in the discussion of the various sections of this Bill, but I was and am confident that the public at large, without distinction of races, will support me in most of my contentions. I was often charged also with looking too exclusively after the interest of landlords, but I always denied that charge. I do not only represent the interest of landlords, and personally I am not a landlord, I care for the tenants as much as the landlords, and the poor as well as the rich. It is not for the welfare of the poor to have the valuable space occupied by their small rooms narrowed, in order to provide for a model of a privy, a superb kitchen and a sumptuous backyard of 10 feet wide, while at the same time the wicked landlords continue to charge the same rent or even a higher one for im- provements and increased capital necessary to effect such improvements. I am not aware of any law, except in Ireland perhaps, which will compel landlords to lower their rent to an equitably low amount. Perhaps such law will be enacted here, but for the present at all events, all landlords, like everybody else, will want to get from 7 to 8, per cent net interest on their capital. What is the price of land now per square foot? In the central and most populous parts of China-town, like Queen's Road Central, and Bonham Strand, it is something like $9, or $10 or more, and even in the more distant and less valuable quarters, it is something like $3 or $4. Just fancy the position of the poor tenant if this Bill becomes law.
405
He would be forced to pay an enormous rent for less space than before, plus all sorts of Sanitary improvements which, however good in themselves from a European stand point, they do not care for, and which they think at least their constitutions. do not require. They may say that they are habituated to such cities like Canton, Kowloong city, &c., compared to which Hongkong as it now stands is a paradise, a model of cleanliness, a perfect Sanitarium, and that if any more improvements are required, let those who advocate it pay for them and not they. Here two adverse arguments must be noticed. The first is that the Chinese are so ignorant of what is good for themselves that they must be taught, and forcibly too, by means of severe legislative measures. I hardly expected to hear of such an argu- ment, if such it may be termed, at the end of the nineteenth century. It reminds one of the Star Chamber and the Inquisition. Those who advance this argument had better take care, lest some wiser heads might act upon the same principle and enforce something unpleasant upon themselves. Let me give a few illustrations of this dangerous but with some persons most plausible argument. (1.) The estab- lished religion of England is Protestant Christianity, the Chinese are mostly heathens, but as they are ignorant and should be taught, let us legislate for enforced Christianity. (2.) The Chinese doctors do not know anything about the European practice of medicine and the Chinese public constantly go to them for advice; but then they are so ignorant-let us legislate for the total expulsion of Chinese trained practitioners and forbid all Chinese under heavy penalties from consulting any one but European doctors. (3.) Many Chinese are inveterate opium smokers, that if long continued, must be injurious to their health as well as a waste of their money; but they are so dreadfully ignorant-let us legislate and force every one to abstain from opium smoking. I may multiply examples, but these will show what I mean. No European will deny that the Chinese urgently need reform in their religion, their system of medicine and their opium smoking habits, but who will advocate that such reform should be wrought by means of harsh and sweeping legislation? Their ignorance should be enlightened no doubt, but not by penal law. The second argument is more reasonable and it is this, that as habitable rooms get smaller and rents go higher in directly opposite proportion, wages will get higher too and that will compensate the poor tenants. This would be perfectly true, I admit, if Hongkong were hundreds of miles away from China. But fortunately or unfortunately, we are close to the mainland, where thousands of poor Chinese are struggling for a bare subsistence. The labour market is always in excess of the demand, and there are many able bodies who are willing and even anxious to get their 10 or 20, cents a day. Those who stick out for higher wages on account of increased rent and less house accommodation will be supplanted by those who will be content with less. For example, if a man gets say $15, a month and has to pay $5, per month for two small rooms for his wife and children and $10 for food and clothing &c., but on account of higher rent he has to pay $6, for the same two rooms smaller than before on account of the sacrifice of building for backyard and other spaces, he would, according to the law laid down above demand $16 per month for his services. He would certainly succeed in this if there were no one to take his place for less, but let us say there are plenty who will take it for less, then what must the poor man do but to pay the $6, or resort to overcrowding or to stinting himself and his family of food and clothing. Now allow me to ask whether building four feet away from retaining walls, the leaving of a ten feet wide backyard and the establishing of a 3/6 feet brick privy and spacious kitchen, more necessary than food and clothing, or more desirable than overcrowding?
I shall speak briefly of the unconstitutional and arbitrary way in which this Bill seeks to enforce its various provisions and Bye-laws. It does not provide for adequate compensation in every case. Surely if the public is to be benefitted by a large sacrifice of property, the sacrifice should not fall on the shoulders of particular individuals but on all alike. It is always easy to make free with other people's property, but when the thing touches our own pockets we may not be quite so ready to carry out our best intentions and scientific views. I do not think it is a wise policy of any Government, especially when it is not of a representative character, to legislate arbitrarily concerning the property of its subjects, and particularly when such measures involve so large a sacrifice of property. It shakes public confidence and drives away capital, a state of thing which may not affect those who have no permanent interest in the Colony, but is sufficient to excite alarm in the minds of those who are permanent residents and have the future welfare of the Colony at heart. In connection with the question of compensation one curious argument was not infrequently advanced, viz., that since land has lately risen greatly in value, it is but just that the landlords who get the benefit of the rise
·
406
should sacrifice something for the public good. On the face of it. this seems reasonable enough, but is it so? Are there no landlords who paid the present price for their land with hard cash? How many landlords are there now in existence who have held land for twenty years on the stretch? Even with these, are the risks they have run and the services they have rendered as pioneers of this settlement to go for nothing? Why should their profits be lessened more than any
others? These are questions one has to answer before one can recommend this Bill for the consideration of the Legislative Council.
I come now to the strongest argument in favor of this Bill, with its numerous Bye-laws. It has been repeated over and over again that in some large English towns similar Bills have been passed, and that this is an almost exact copy of them, most provisions having been copied word for word, and therefore it must be just and proper-going upon the principle that what is good for the goose is good for the gander. In effect whatever laws they may pass at home we must also pass here. I protest loudly against this kind of indiscriminate and servile legislation. If we are to adopt all English local Acts of Parliament as our law, why need we a separate Legislative Council? There is no doubt some English Acts which we shall all be glad to have introduced here, such as the Press law for example, still every new law should be modified and adapted to suit local surroundings and requirements. To my mind the very fact of the present Bill being copied from the local law of England is the strongest argument against its being passed here without a great many important modifications and alterations. Just compare this little Island with England, think of the ridiculously limited space at our disposal, and then say can we really spare the comparatively vast number of feet for back- yard purposes especially with a rapidly growing population? Again, consider the hilly and rocky nature of Hongkong, how nearly every house is built as it were on the top of another and how many high as well as low retaining walls there are; is it necessary then that almost every house should be built four feet away from its neighbour, and does not after all my proposition to legislate against inhabiting cellars or basement floors underground obviate all difficulties? Once again, the original mode of building in most of the English towns is different from that adopted here from the beginning. With or without prohibitory law and sanitary considerations most English houses were built from the commencement with a front and back garden, so that the innovation is not so great to the great majority of the people. The differences of habits, constitutions, requirements &c., between the Chinese and English are also very great arguments against the adoption of the English law here without great modifications. There is yet another point which has to be noticed, and that is however sweeping a law is in England it is passed by the people through their representatives. The minority bows to but not rules the majority, and the people are consulted before any measure is put forward and
carried.
In conclusion, I beg to record my strongest objection against this Bill and its Bye-laws as a whole as unnecessary and inefficient. I submit that there are better ways for providing the Colony with sanitary improvements without on the one hand shaking public confidence, and on the other securing unanimity and
success.
1. The first thing I submit is to overhaul all the public drains, traps, &c., and to put them in an efficient and sanitary condition, so that all who connect their house drains with them may have no reason to repent.
2. Next we should insist upon the construction of good drains in every house and proper connections with the public drains; upon the speedy execution of the scheme to carry the sewage matter from the drain-outlets well out into the Sulphur Channel; and upon the immediate construction of ven- tilating shafts above the drains on the hill side, supplied with proper apparatus to destroy the ascending foul air. The provisions respecting drainage in this Bill should certainly be enforced, with a few alterations. 3. Let the people have a free and abundant supply of water without which no
cleanliness is possible.
4. Let the foreshore be thoroughly cleared of all rubbish and decayed matter, not by only one small dredger but by even half-a-dozen dredgers if
necessary.
3. Let building operations where the turning over of virgin soil is necessary,
be confined to the few cold and dry months in the winter.
(C.S.O. 1283).
407
6. Let all low and swampy grounds be filled in and planted over with trees of such a kind as to permit the rays of the sun to penetrate to the ground underneath their foliage.
7. Let a stricter system be established for the removal of filth and excreta from the Colony and let the workmen engaged in this work be placed under more efficient and more numerous European skilled supervision.
8. What is more important of all is the prevention of overcrowding not by compulsory and arbitrary legislation but by the extension of the town east and west. For this purpose let us endeavour to procure a continuous road along the Praya, open new building sites, facilitate the requirement of small lots for building purposes, and connect the two extremities of the island with a tramway. By these means people will not overcrowd as long as there are quick, easy, and inexpensive means of communication with the centre of the town. These and many more, such as the preven- tion of the sale of unwholesome food and unripe fruits, the enlargement and improvement of markets, the spread of medical and sanitary know- ledge among
the public, &c., are worthy of the immediate attention of the Sanitary Board and the Government, and which if properly carried out, would secure health and prosperity to the Colony. Finally, let us also see to the proper carrying out of our already innumerable Sanitary rules and regulations, and be content to work these and the few points I have just pointed out above thoroughly and in detail and not waste our time over unnecessary Sanitary provisions, which look well no doubt on paper, but are utterly impracticable and would take years to accomplish. Let us work at the real, the probable, and not strive after the imaginary and improbable. According to recent reports and complaints I think we as. members of the Sanitary Board have quite enough in hand to do without this debatable Ordinance and its Bye-laws introduced and considered in our various meetings.
Dated this 2nd December, 1886.
(Signed)
HO KAI, M.B.,
C.M. (Aberd.), M.R.C.S. (Eng.) Barrister-at-law, and a Member of the Sanitary Board.
The Sanitary Board's Rejoinder.
SIR,
SANITARY BOArd Room,
HONGKONG, 1st June, 1887.
In reply to your letter, No. 1114,* of the 9th ultimo requesting to be furnished with the observations of the Sanitary Board on Dr. Ho KAT's Protest against the Public Health Bill, we have the honour to inform you that although none of us were able to admit the correctness of Dr. Ho KAI's alleged facts or deductions, we did not consider ourselves called upon-in forwarding you his Protest-to enter into any controversy with a colleague, as we apprehended the Government would readily form its own opinions after the first perusal of the document.
2. As however you now intimate to us the wish of the Acting Governor to have our views on the statements advanced by Dr. Ho KAI, we beg, in response to His Excellency's desire, to submit the following observations which will be limited rather to the pointing out of errors and inconsistencies than to any discussion of the speculations and predictions which recur in the Protest unsupported by facts, figures or arguments.
3. Dr. Ho KAI begins by stating that the Bill will sacrifice property to the extent of millions of dollars, that it will greatly interfere with vested interests and
* Not printed.
5
!
408
shake public confidence to its foundations, but as a careful perusal of his paper fails to disclose how these disastrous consequences are to be brought about, this statement, being a mere assertion, calls for no comment from us.
4. From the statement which next follows the reader would infer that the Public Health Bill had been withdrawn from the Legislative Council and relegated to the Sanitary Board with a view to imparting to the measure some element of popularity. This statement, which is scarcely respectful to the Legislature, appears however to be levelled more at the Government than at the Sanitary Board, and we leave it therefore to be met by the Government, but as regards the Board we should state that when we first addressed ourselves to the consideration of the Public Health Bill, we were well aware that the latter had formed the principal portion of a larger and more comprehensive Draft that included building technica- lities having no relation to the Public Health, and that the reason these building clauses were withdrawn and recast by themselves as a separate Bill entitled the Building Act, was because it was intended that the Public Health Ordinance should be limited purely to matters relating to Health and be worked under the supervision of the Sanitary Board, while the Building Ordinance was to be worked under that of the Public Works Department.
5. Regret is expressed by Dr. Ho KAI that the consideration of the Bill should not have been left to the proposed new elective Board to be formed under the provisions of the Bill, but as one of the professed objects of the Bill is to create this new body, it is not clear how the elective Board could have considered any- thing at all until it had first been brought into existence by the passage of the Bill into Law.
6. Regret is also expressed that the deliberations of the Board should have been conducted with closed doors. It will be obvious to His Excellency, however, that the drafting of legislative enactments would become an impossibility, if the public were taken into collaboration in the task. To us moreover it appeared that the proper time for the public discussion and criticism of the Bill would be when it had reached the hands of the Legislature. -
7. Next ensues a disquisition on practical as against theoretical public sanita- tion. From a theoretical point of view Dr. Ho KAI says that in framing the pro- visions of this Bill, he would have gone further than the Board, yet in the next breath, he adds that the provisions of the Bill as framed by the Board, are “un- necessary, uneconomical, and unconstitutional." We have had, as may readily be conceived, some difficulty in following this line of argument, but whatever may be intended to be conveyed we beg to refer you to paragraphs 5, 6, and 7 of the letter of the Board dated the 22nd of last December, wherein it is set forth that in consequence of the high value of building land and for other reasons we had had to take a practical view of the requirements of the people rather than a theoretical one, and that we had therefore had to limit ourselves to recommendations which fall very far short of English sanitary legislation.
•
8. The next remarks indirectly accuse the Sanitary Board of the error of legislating for Chinese as for Europeans. These accusations we presume refer to the provisions in the Bill for light and ventilation, and for the limitation of overcrowding. In respect of the overcrowding clauses we desire to explain that the minimum cube of 300 feet for each adult person was adopted by us in view of that rudimentary principle of sanitary science which lays down that a minimum of 2,000 cubic feet of fresh air per head must be provided every hour in order to prevent the air from becoming fouled by putrescent organic matters exhaled from the lungs and skin of the persons living in it. With so reduced an allowance as 2,000 cubic feet per hour it becomes necessary to change the air at least once every hour in order to enable it to support life in health. In these circumstances less than 300 cubic feet could not be pres- cribed by any Sanitary Authority. We submit furthermore that no home, whether European or native, can be a healthy home without the light and the facilities for ventilation sought to be secured by the Bill. These we reiterate fall far short of European sanitary provisions on the one hand, while on the other hand nothing has been adduced to warrant the assumption that the constitution of the Chinaman is so far different from that of the rest of the human race, that his dwelling may do with less light, less air, and less ventilation, than the minimums provided in the Bill. Nor has the question of class legislation at all preoccupied us in the framing of the measure under criticism. We have simply recommended, after the most careful consideration of local conditions and peculiarities, the least_cube of space and the least ventilation which any habitation may have without becoming un-
6.
i
409
healthy under normal circumstances or without becoming a focus of infection in times of epidemic disease.
66
77
9. Reference is next made to the absurdity of sacrificing "millions of square feet of land averaging six or seven dollars a square foot" for the sake of a ten foot back-yard. It is to the provision of this back-yard that we understand Dr. HO KAI chiefly takes exception. His objection appears to be based on two separate grounds--(I) that the Chinese do not require the house-ventilation and light which the back-yard is designed to secure them, and (II) that the tenant will be forced to pay the landlord an enormous rent for less space. In the preceding paragraph we have dealt with the first objection, and with regard to the second we beg to call your attention to the opening sentence of the Protest, wherein Dr. Ho KAI states that the Bill will sacrifice millions of dollars worth of property. This sacrifice of landed property was to have been suffered by the landlords, but now-- from the theory of enormous rents for less space to be paid by the tenants-we gather that the landlords are to recoupe themselves from the tenants and that after all there is to be no sacrifice of millions on the part of property owners.
The two statements are clearly antagonistic, and one or the other must fall to the ground. A very great many Chinese tenements in Hongkong actually have back-yards or smoke-holes as they are called, five feet wide. In many tenements these places are six feet wide, and in some they are actually seven and eight feet wide. The provision of the minimum of ten feet, for the width of a back-yard is not therefore of the enormously exaggerated importance made out by Dr. Ho KAI, for the extra width prescribed is only five feet more than the minimum dimension mentioned above, and two or three feet more than the maximum dimension adopted by the Chinese themselves of their own initiative, and the certainty is that the landlord who has pulled down an old house with a five foot back-yard and substituted it by a new house with a ten foot yard, will be no loser by the alteration as regards rent, inasmuch as the marked improvement in the shape of the additional light and ventilation will make up for the loss of the five feet now transferred from the depth of the house to that of the yard where many domestic duties which are at present carried on in the public street could then be performed. Should there however in certain cases of extremely small lots be actual loss by the provision of a ten foot back-yard, we have given opportunity by Clause 79 of the Bill for the special consideration of such cases on exceptional grounds.
10. We next come to the objection raised in the Protest to the enforcement of Public Order and Cleanliness by legislative means. and to this we beg to rejoin that there are no known methods other than the Law for giving effect to State sanitation.
to
11. The Protest next condemns the Bill as "unconstitutional and arbitrary," because it does not provide adequate compensation in every case. The Protest does not specify what the compensation is to be given for, but we gather that again the ten foot back-yards are referred to. In this connexion we beg to refer you paragraph 13 of the letter of the Board addressed to you on the 22nd of December last wherein we advised that in the matter of compensation, the Colonial Govern- ment should follow the line of action adopted by all English Municipalities of late years, in their endeavours to improve the dwellings of the people. Whatever the policy of English Municipal Authorities may be we are sure that in England law and equity are not set aside and individual interests sacrificed for the public good, without due indemnity for actual losses suffered.
12. We next come to the expostulation against the copying-for application at Hongkong-of the Sanitary legislation of the mother country without regard to local conditions and to the idiosyncracies of the Chinese. There might have been grounds for this remonstrance had it been a fact that we had recommended for this Colony English legislation pure and simple, but such is not the case, for the Public Health Bill has been framed by us, by the light of our local experience to meet local requirements. Had we followed English sanitary enactments more strictly the stringency of our recommendation might then possibly have warranted the Protest under reply.
13. Dr. Ho KAI then proceeds to stigmatize the Bill as
(6 unnecessary and inefficient." Previously the Bill was assailed on the score of its alleged severity, now it is denounced on the score of its inefficiency. One or the other of these con- tradictory charges must be fallacious. If there were any truth in either it would most probably be found in the charge of inefficiency, for we freely admit that we have preferred, if anything to err on the side of mildness in order to interfere as little as possible with private interests.
3
.
-
.
i
410
14. The Protest next recommends the superssion of the Bill by fourteen different propositions, viz.:-
i. Efficient public drainage.
ii. Efficient house drainage.
iii. An out-fall at Sulphur Channel for the sewage of the city.
:
iv. Sewer ventilation.
v. Increased water supply.
vi. A flotilla of steam dredgers.
vii. Provisions against earth cutting.
viii. Reclamations and tree planting.
ix. Surface scavenging.
x. Abatement of overcrowding by the extension of the town.
xi. Prohibition of the sale of unwholesome food.
xii. Market improvements.
xiii. The spread of sanitary knowledge.
xiv. Efficient sanitary administration.
It is asserted that if the foregoing propositions are adopted the health and prosperity of the Colony will be secured. But long before this Protest was penned, the Bill which we have drafted had already provided either directly or by Bye-law for the realization of nearly the whole of these fourteen propositions or such of them as require legislative sanction. Dr. Ho KAI assisted at our meetings, took part in our discussions and was aware that we sought to give effect under the authority of the Bill to the programme which he has reproduced. Practically therefore we may say that the Protest winds up by advocating the adoption of the self same provisions so inconsistently condemned in the preceding sentences.
15. An inconsistency still more glaring is involved in proposition xiii. After having been admonished throughout the Protest for framing Bill in accordance with modern medical and sanitary knowledge instead of in accordance with Chinese ideas we are now advised to spread medical and sanitary knowledge among the public.
16. Dr. Ho KAI objects chiefly, as we have said before, to the provision of adequate open space about buildings in order to secure the free circulation of air. This provision has, however, been commended by him as necessary in respect of any new building lots which may be sold by Government in the future, and we have his approval of the principle. But if he approves of the provision of adequate air space for new building-lots, as a hygienic necessity, is it not again inconsistent on his part to denounce this requirement in respect of new houses to be built on old lots?
17. In conclusion we desire to avail ourselves of this opportunity very res- pectfully to beg the reconsideration of His Excellency the Acting Governor of the expediency of passing the Public Health Bill with its separate By-laws in the form in which we had the honour to submit it, in lieu of in its present shape with the By-laws incorporated in the Bill. Our recommendation if adopted would not retard unduly the passage of this most necessary measure through the Legislature, for so far we understand that any opposition there may be, is limited to one or two of the Bye-laws, and these might be discussed with ample deliberation at any convenient time after the passage of the Bill.
We have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servants,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
J. M. PRICE.
PATRICK MANSON.
PH. B. C. AYRES.
A. P. McEWEN.
T. C. DEMPSTER.
J. H. STEWART LOCKHART.
HUGH MCCALLUM.
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
No. 234.
SIR,
Sanitary Board's letter submitting Public Health Bill.
SANITARY BOARD ROOM,
HONGKONG, 22nd December, 1886.
411
I am directed by the Sanitary Board to transmit you for submission to the Governor in Council the enclosed draft of a proposed Public Health Ordinance, and accompanying By-Laws which the Board have had under consideration for some months past.
2. The Board regret they should have been unable to place these documents in your hands at an earlier date, but the length of the Bill, the variety and import- ance of the subjects coming under review, and the caution and deliberation which it was necessary to observe, inore particularly in the framing of those provisions likely to affect private interests, have made the delay unavoidable.
3. Even now the By-Laws proposed to be made under the Bill are far from complete, and the Board will do itself the honour of submitting from time to time in a supplementary form, the remaining By-Laws still to be framed in connection with the various subjects set forth in the sub-sections 7 to 27 of Article 13 of the Bill, but as these additional By-Laws would not be of a nature to necessitate any postponement of the consideration of the Bill, the Board venture to hope-in view of the pressing need of sanitary reform in the ventilation and drainage of private dwellings in Victoria -- that the measure in the shape now submitted may receive the early attention of Government.
4. I am to point out that many of its more important provisions have been detached from the body of the Bill, and have been grouped together in the form of By-Laws, because it was conceived that in this form their amendment from time to time as future experience might dictate, would be more easily effected than by any partial repeal or amendment of the Ordinance itself, and I am to express the hope that the course adopted by the Board in this connection will commend itself to the judgment of the Government inasmuch as it is justified by ample precedent in the sanitary enactments of Parliament, as may be seen by reference to the Public Health Act of 1875 (38 and 39 Vict. c. 55) whereby it is decreed in Section 157 that every urban authority may make By-Laws with respect to the structure, sewerage, and closet accommodation of dwelling-houses, to the sufficiency of space about buildings in order to secure ventilation and a free circulation of air, and to the closing of tenements unfit for human occupation.
5. I am to state briefly that as regards the drainage and sewerage of tenements, the Bill has been drafted in the general lines of the municipal sanitary legislation of England, but that under the important head of space and ventilation in dwelling- houses, the Board regrets to have to report that it has been debarred by the un- favourable peculiarities of the site on which the city is built, by the small depths in the dimensions of existing lots, and by the scarcity and high value of building ground from following as closely as they could have wished, the wise provisions now adopted by all Municipal Authorities and Health Boards in the United Kingdom under the guidance of the Local Government Board.
6. The By-Laws of the Local Government Board prescribe that every tene- ment shall have a back-yard ten feet wide in order to secure the light and ventilation necessary to the health of the inmates, and it is further provided that if the tenement be fifteen feet high the back yard shall be fifteen feet wide, that if the tenement be twenty-five feet high the back-yard shall be twenty feet wide, and that if the tenement be thirty-five feet high the back-yard shall be at least twenty- five feet wide.
7. In Hongkong, native tenements are generally three storied and would therefore in accordance with Western hygienic rules require back-yards at least. twenty-five feet wide. The Board however has not been able to recommend for the reason previously given any back-yard wider than ten feet even for three storied houses intended to be reconstructed. This width is less than one half that laid down by English municipalities, notwithstanding that the tropical climate of Hongkong would seem to exact a more generous provision of air space.
8. But with regard to such entirely new houses as may be erected on vacant lands intended to be leased by Government for building purposes after the Bill shall have passed into law, the Board see no reason why the minimum of open space for light and ventilation adopted in England should not also be adopted in
9
*
412
this Colony, provided of course that at the land sales this condition is made clear to intending purchasers who would then acquire their sites with their eyes open to the requirements of the new law. With this view a By-Law has been added in- tended to apply to future extensions of the town.
9. As the City of Victoria has been built on a strongly marked declivity, the houses rising in terraces or steps one above the other, have had to have their foundations excavated out of the steep hillside, and in many cases the back walls of the basement stories have been built in juxtaposition with the earth or with scarp walls that have been thrown up in order to retain the hillside in place. In some instances these retaining walls themselves are found to form the back wall of the house. Such basement floors being many feet below the surface of the ground outside are it is needless to add extremely damp, and during the rainy season the moisture is in some instances even found to percolate through the walls.. They are also as a rule so dark that the inmates are compelled to burn lights even at noon-day. Unquestionably basement dwellings under these conditions are not fit for human habitation, and as no sanitary authority could possibly countenance their perpetuation in houses to be newly built or reconstructed, the Board have provided in the Bill that in new buildings or reconstructions a clear intervening space of four feet open to the sky shall be left between the hillside and the house.
10. For the purposes of adequate ventilation and for the arrest of damp, so narrow a space as four feet might not perhaps be deemed sufficient by a rigid sanitarian, but again in the consideration of this question the same difficulty which beset that of the minimum width of back-yards stepped in, and in view of the undue sacrifice of property that would have attended the adoption of a wider space, the Board after careful deliberation were constrained to adopt as narrow a margin as four feet for the minimum width of clear area to be left between the house walls and the hillside.
11. The next question that came under consideration was whether such land- lords as would be debarred hereafter from building or reconstructing their houses against the hillside, that is to say such landlords as contemplated the perpetuation of dwellings manifestly unfit for human habitation, should be compensated for the loss of area involved in the new rule, and before arriving at a final decision on this point the Board caused an examination of the City to be made with a view to ascertaining the number of houses actually built against the hillside, and the aggregate area which would eventually have to be relinquished if all such houses when their time for reconstruction arrived, were to be set back, four feet.
12. The examination revealed the fact that in Victoria there were a large number of houses so circumstanced, that the area to be relinquished would be 118,642 square feet, and that the compensation to the owners for such relinquish- ment assessed at current leasehold estate values would come to $791,096.
13. After protracted deliberation the Board have arrived at the decision that the question of compensation for loss of area was one that must be left for settlement to the Executive Government, and the Board therefore desire to limit themselves to the recommendation that whatever policy or line of action has been followed at home of late years in the improvements of the dwellings of the people should be observed in this Colony, and they tender this advice confident that in following the footsteps of English Municipalities no injustice will accrue to vested interests.
14. The Board find from the Returns prepared for them at the Land Office by the courtesy of Mr. BRUCE SHEPHERD that there are about 2,200 landlords, of whom one third are either European permanent absentees or natives resident on the mainland of China, who have invested their money in Hongkong building operations for the purposes of personal profit but who have not otherwise the same direct interest in the maintenance of the health of the community as the regular inhabi- tants of Victoria.
15. I am to transmit you the enclosed protest against the Bill from the pen of Dr. Ho KAI a member of the Board.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,
10
Acting Colonial Secretary.
HUGH MCCALLUM, Secretary.
No. 20.
267
No. 11
87.
HONGKONG.
APPROXIMATE ESTIMATE OF COST OF CONTEMPLATED PUBLIC WORKS.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 4th February, 1887.
SIR,
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT,
HONGKONG, 18th January, 1887.
I have the honour to transmit you the enclosed approximate Estimates of the larger works and buildings which the Government has in contemplation or which have been under consideration.
I have the honour to be,
The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D:,
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
&C.
&c.
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
J. M. PRICE,
Surveyor General.
APPROXIMATE ESTIMATE OF COST OF NEW PUBLIC WORKS,
HONGKONG.
New Prison,
Slaughter House,
Supreme Court and Offices,
Praya Junction,
Drainage of Happy Valley,
New Central Market,
New Western Market,
Police Buildings Extensions,.
Gap Rock Light House,..
Kelletts Bank Breakwater,.
Filter Beds, Service Reservoir and Water-mains,
Sanitary Works,.
Total,.......
.$400,000.00
50,000.00
75,000.00
438,000.00 * 25,000.00
150,000.00
200,000.00 100,000.00
90,000.00
·
1.50,000.00
170,000.00 600,000.00
$ 2,448.000.00
Equal to £408,000.0.0
J. M. PRICE,
Surveyor General.
* This amount may be increased to $50,000 or $60,000 by works of ornamentation and landscape gardening according to the scale on which it is contemplated to carry out this project.
:
·
HONGKONG.
STATEMENT SHOWING THE TOTAL RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS IN T
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Offic
on the 8th April, 1887.
COLONY OF HONGKONG.
LON
STATEMENT SHOWING THE TOTAL RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS IN TE
REVENUE.
Amount Estimated.
Amount received in the Colony.
Amount received by
the Crown
Agents in England.
Total Receipts.
More than Less than Estimated. Estimated.
EXPENDITURE.
$ C.
$
c.
C.
c.
LAND REVENUE
CIVIL DEPARTMENTS:-
Leased Lands,
148,000
Lands not Leased, and Quarries,
20,000
149,288.84 19,465.42
Fees on Grant of Leases.
300
320,00
149,288,84 19,465.42 320.00
1,288.84
534.58
The Governor...
20.00
...
RENTS, EXCLUSIVE OF LANDS:-
Markets,
60,000
65,863.65
65,863.65
Buildings,..
7,000
7,293.00
Piers...
S$1.20
7,293.00 881.20
5,863.65 293.00 881.20
Colonial Secretary,..........
Auditor,
Treasurer,..
LICENCES:
Clerk of Councils,
Spirit,
90,000
41,480.00
41,480.00
48,520,00
Pawnbrokers,
12,250
13,650.00
13,650.00
Auctioneers,...
1,800
2.400.00
2,400.00
Tenements for Emigrants,
20
Emigration Brokers,
1,400
Billiard Tables,
750
28.50 1,200.00 970.00
28.50 1,200.00 970.00
1,400.00 600.00 8.50
220.00
Surveyor General,
Postmaster General,.
200,00
Registrar General,
Opium,
159.000
178,500,00
178,500.00
19,500.00
Boarding Houses,
175
200.00
200.00
25.00
Marriage,...
300
340.00
340.00
40.00
Chinese Undertakers,
100
100.00
100.00
Money Changers,
700
770.00
770.00
70.00
Marine Store Dealers,
1,000
1,170.00
1,170.00
170.00
Shooting Licence,
30,00
30.00
30.00
TAXES:-
Stamps,...
Municipal Rates,
138,000 300,000
159,819.63 306.131.35
:
=
POSTAGE,
120,000
130,846.72
::
4:
159,819.63 21,819.63 306,131,35
130,846.72 10,846.72
Harbour Master,..
Lighthouses,
Observatory,
Collector of Stamp Revenue,
Government Gardens & Plantations,
6,131.35
Judicial Departments..........
Ecclesiastical Department,
FINES, FORFEITURES & FEES OF COURTS:
Fines,
Forfeitures,
Fees,
9,000 800 10,000
26,049.54 3,056.10 10,853.13
DO
26,049.54
17,049.54
Educational
do.,
3,056.10
2,256.10
10,853.13
853.13
Medical
do.,
FEES OF OFFICE:-
Burials,
500
616.25
616.25
116.25
Police Magistrates' do.,
Licences for Junks, &c.,
18,000
18,574.25
18,574.25
574.25
Registry of Boats,
3,050
3,436.14
3,436.14
386.14
Police
do.,
Do. of Cargo Boats and Crews,
3,900
4,767.56
4,767.56
867.56
Do. of Hawkers,.......
3,700
3,986.00
3,986.00
286.00
Gaol
do.,
Cargo Boat Certificates,
Registration of Householders,
600 1,600
798.00
798.00
198.00
1,484.75
1,484.75
115.25 Fire Brigade
do.,
Do. of Servants, &C.,
50
21.25
Official Signatures,
100
224.00
31.25 224.00
18.75
Registration of Deeds,
3,000
3,615.00
3,615.00
124.00 615.00
...
Shipping Seamen,.
9,000
8,589.00
Examination of Masters, &c.,
1,500
1,202.50
8,589.00 1,202,50
A
Pensions, Retired Allowances & Gratuities
411.00 Charitable Allowances..
297.50
Survey of Steam Ships, &c., .
9,000
10,393.04
10,393.04
1,393.04
Transport,
Registry Fees, &c., (Mer. Shipping Act),
600
435.78
435.78
164.22
Do., of Carriages, Chairs, &c.,
4,000
7,326.00
7,326.00
3,326.00
Works and Buildings,
Registration of Companies,
300
1,982.40
1,982.40
1,682.40
Examination of Emigrants.
15,000
18,101.75
18.101.75
3,101.75
Registration of Births, &c...
40
64.30
Light Dues,
25,000
32,953,16
64.30 32,953.16
24.30
7,953.16
Licences for Steam Launches,.
200
372.50
Surveyor's Cert. for Steam Launches,...
500
955.00
372.50 955.00
172.50
455.00
Roads, Streets and Bridges,
Interest,
Miscellaneous Services,
Official Administrator, Assignee, &c.,...
2,000
4,234.92
1,234.92
2,234.92
Registration of Trade Marks,
100
226.50
323.41
Licences for Chinese Passenger Ships,
500
495.00
Bills of Health, .
1,446.00
549.91 495.00 1,446.00
449.91
1,446.00
Military Expenditure,.......
5.00
SALE OF GOVERNMENT PROPERTY:-
Condemned Stores, &c.,........
REIMBURSEMENTS:-
Sick Stoppages from Police Force,. Subsistence of Seamen, &c., in Gaol, Treatment of Seamen, &c., in Hospital.
Convict labour and othan it
ww
1,000
1,753.99
1,753.99
753.99
1,
Extraordinary Public Works,..
600
991.28
300
232.40
6,000
8,564.52
991.28 232.40 8,564.52
391.28
67.60
2,564,52
VU. U
No. 21
HONGKONG.
WING THE TOTAL RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS IN THE YEAR 1886.
by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 8th April, 1887.
COLONY OF HONGKONG.
WING THE TOTAL RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS IN THE YEAR 1886.
87.
Amount
Estimated. Estimated.
Total More than Less than Receipts.
EXPENDITURE.
Amount Estimated.
Amount paid in the Colony.
paid by Crown Agents in England.
Total Payments.
More than Less than Estimated. Estimated.
c.
149,288.84
1,288.84
c.
$
C.
$ C.
C.
C.
C.
CIVIL DEPARTMENTS:-
10,465.12
534.58
The Governor,...
33,975
20,933.59 16,484.70
37,418,29
3,443.29
320.00
20.00
Colonial Secretary..............
24,856
22,373.60 465.18
22,838.78
2,017.22
65,863.65 7,293.00 881.20
5,863.65
Auditor,
5,958
5,953.98
5,953.98
4.02
293.00
881.20
Treasurer,........
13,218
12,454,59
12,454,59
763.41
Clerk of Councils,
1,160
1,160.00
1,160.00
41,480.00
13,650.00
48,520.00
2,400.00 28.50
1,200.00
970.00
1,400.00 600.00 8.50
220.00
Surveyor General, ........
55,003
52,084.75 1,175.69
53,260.14
1,742.56
Postmaster General,..
102,106
46,999.13 79,356.21
126,355.34 24,249.34
200.00
Registrar General,
178,500.00
19,500.00
200.00
25.00
Harbour Master,...
340.00
40.00
100.00
Lighthouses,
770.00
70.00
1,170.00
170.00
Observatory,
7,508
5,820
23,836 22,822,14 100.69
45,468 43,008,23 2,050.11
5,492,96 455.88
22,922.83
913.17
45,058.34
409.66
5,948.84
1,559.16
5,939.00 483.31
30.00
30.00
Collector of Stamp Revenue,
4,822
4,624,25 535.75
6,422,31
5,160.00 338.00
602.31
159,819.63 21,819.63 306,131,35 6,131,35
Government Gardens & Plantations,
21,786
20,645.18 863.10
21,508.28
277.72
Judicial Departments,...
61,705
130,846.72 10,846.72
Ecclesiastical Department,
6,218
26,049.54 17,049.54
Educational
do.,
47,083
3,056.10
2,256.10
10,853.13
853.13
Medical
do.,
616.25
116.25
Police Magistrates' do.,
18,574.25
574.25
3,436.14
386.14
Police
do.,
4,767.56
867.56
3,986.00
286.00
Gaol
do.,
49,088
798.00
198.00
1,484.75
115.25 Fire Brigade
do.,
15,286
31.25
18.75
224.00
124.00
Pensions, Retired Allowances & Gratuities
33,000
51,221.79 1,189.05
12,306.13 3,057.86
12,276.81 25.471.13
58,646.11 4,122.59 62,768.70 1,063.70
4,008.45 2,812.23 6,820.68 602.68
40,101.57 2,983.93 43,085.50
36,277 36,339.69 3,424.51 39,764.20 3,487.20
20,274 17,286.77
694.75 3,681.98 20,968.75
205,761
193,618.88 172,586.14 21,032.74
52,410.84 3,322.84
15,363.99 77.99
37,747.94 4,747.94
3,997.50
12,142.12
3,615,00
615.00
8,589.00
411.00 Charitable Allowances,
4,000
3,372.00
3,372.00
628.00
1,202,50
297.50
10,393.04
1,393.04
Transport,
4,500
435.78
164.22
7,326.00
3,326.00
Works and Buildings,.
81,200
1,982.40
1,682,40
18,101.75
3,101.75
Roads, Streets and Bridges,
853.78
72,631.19 1,285.77
37,500 36,175.17
1,028,46
1,882.24
2,617.76
73,916.96
7,283.04
36,175.17
1,324.83
64.30 32,953.16
372.50 955.00
455.00
24.30
7,953.16
Interest,
4,412.28
4,412.28 4,412.28
172,50
Miscellaneous Services,
1,234.92
2,234.92
549.91 495.00 1,446.00
449.91
1,446.00
Military Expenditure,...
86,787 88,082.44 23,822.54
118,187 124,463.86 97.82
111,904.98 | 25,117.98
124,561.68 6,374.68
5.00
1,753.99 753.99
Extraordinary Public Works,..
1,152,382 994,843.30 200,393.51 1,195,236.81 78,534.98
579,800 762,839.38 62.785.46 825,624.84 245,824.84
35,680.17
991.28 232.40
391.28
67.60
8.564.52 2,564.52
REAIS, BACLUSIVE OF LANDS:-~
Markets,
Buildings,.
60,000 7,000
65,863,65 7,293.00
Piers.......
LICENCES:-
$81.20
65,863.65 5,863.65
7,293.00 881.20
293.00
881.20
Colonial Secretary,....................
Auditor,
Treasurer,.....
Clerk of Councils,
Spirit,
90,000
41,480.00
Pawnbrokers,
12,250
13,650.00
Auctioneers,..
1,800
2.400.00
Tenements for Emigrants,
20
Emigration Brokers,
1,400
28.50 1,200.00
41,480.00 13,650.00 2,400.00 28.50
48,520.00
1,400.00 600.00 8.50
Surveyor General,
Postmaster General,.....
1,200.00
200.00
Billiard Tables,
750
970.00
970.00
220.00
Registrar General,
Opium,
159.000
178,500.00
178,500.00
19,500.00
Boarding Houses,
175
200.00
200.00
25.00
Marriage,
300
340.00
340.00
10.00
Chinese Undertakers,
100
100.00
100.00
Money Changers,
700
770.00
770.00
70.00
Marine Store Dealers,
1,000
1,170.00
1,170.00
170.00
Shooting Licence,
30.00
30.00
30.00
TAXES:-
Stamps,..
138,000
Municipal Rates,
300,000
159,819.63 306.131.35
159,819.63
21,819.63
306,131.35
6,131.35
Harbour Master,..
Lighthouses,
Observatory,
Collector of Stamp Revenue,..
Government Gardens & Plantatio
Judicial Departments,....
POSTAGE,
120,000
130,846.72
:
130,846.72 10,846.72
:
Ecclesiastical Department,
FINES, FORFEITURES & FEES OF Courts:
Fines,
9,000
Forfeitures,
800
26,049.54
· 3,056.10
26,049.54
17,049.54
Educational
do.,
3,056.10
2,256.10
Fees,..
10,000
10,853.13
10,853.13
853.13
Medical
do.,
FEES OF OFFICE:-
Burials,
500
616.25
616.25
116.25
Police Magistrates' do.,
Licences for Junks, &c.,
18,000
18,574.25
...
18,574.25
574.25
Registry of Boats,
3,050
3,436.14
3,436.14
386.14
Police
do.,
Do. of Cargo Boats and Crews,
3,900
4,767.56
...
4,767.56
867.56
Do.
of Hawkers.......
3,700
3,986.00
3,986.00
286.00
Gaol
do.,
Cargo Boat Certificates,
600
798.00
798.00
198.00
Registration of Householders,
1,600
1,484.75
1,484.75
115.25 Fire Brigade
do.,
Do. of Servants, &C.,
50
21.25
31.25
18.75
Official Signatures,
100
224.00
224.00
124.00
Registration of Deeds,
3,000
3,615.00
3,615.00
615.00
Shipping Seamen,..
9,000
8,589.00
8,589.00
**A
Pensions, Retired Allowances & Gratuit
411.00 Charitable Allowances,
Examination of Masters, &c.,
1,500
1,202.50
1,202,50
297.50
Survey of Steam Ships, &c.,
9,000
10,393.04
10,393.04
1,393.04
Transport,
Registry Fees, &c., (Mer. Shipping Act),
600
435.78
435.78
164.22
Do., of Carriages, Chairs, &c.,
4,000
7,326.00
7,326.00
3,326.00
Works and Buildings,
Registration of Companies,
300
1,982.40
1,982.40
1,682.40
Examination of Emigrants,
15,000
18,101.75
18.101.75
3,101.75
Registration of Births, &c...
40
64.30
64.30
24.30
Light Dues,
25,000 !
32,953.16
32,953.16
7,953.16
Licences for Steam Launches, .
200
372.50
Surveyor's Cert. for Steam Launches,...
500
955.00
372,50 955.00
172.50
455.00
Roads, Streets and Bridges,
Interest,
Miscellaneous Services,
Official Administrator, Assignee, &c.,.........
2,000
4,234.92
4,234.92
2,234.92
Registration of Trade Marks,
100
226.50
323.41
Licences for Chinese Passenger Ships, Bills of Health, .
500
495.00
1,446.00
549.91 495.00 1,446.00
449.91
1,446.00
Military Expenditure,.......
5.00
SALE OF GOVERNMENT PROPERTY:---
Condemned Stores, &c.,....
1,000
1,753.99
:
1,753.99
753.99
Extraordinary Public Works...................
REIMBURSEMENTS:—
Sick Stoppages from Police Force,.
600
991.28
Subsistence of Seamen, &c., in Gaol,
300
232.40
Treatment of Seamen, &c., in Hospital,
6,000
8,564.52
991.28 232.40 8,564.52
391.28
67.60
2,564.52
Convict labour and other items,
2,500
5,370.26
5,370.26 2,870.26
Sale of Printed Forms,
1,200
1,192.75
1,192.75
7.25
Gaol Expenses recovered,..
800
1,092,78
1,092.78
292.78
Contribution from Imperial Post Office,
3,888
3,888.00
3,888.00
Sale of Chinese Gazette,
100
50.00
50.00
Interest on Furniture at Govt. House,.
250
50.00 250.00
Fees from Scholars at Central School,
4,500
Sale of Tickets for Destitutes' Shelter,
5,422.00 33.00
INTEREST,
11,409.47
226.97
5,422.00 33.00 11,636.44
922.00
33.00 11,636.44
MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS:—
Storage of Gunpowder,
Other Miscellaneous Receipts,
6,000 65,000
12,691.60
67,717.18
*12,691.60 6,691,60 67,717.18 2,717.18
TOTAL REVENUE,..
1,274,9731,367,427.36
550.38 1,367,977.74 | 143,645,89 50,641,15
RECEIPTS.
Deposits Available, Premia on-Land Sales,
Other Deposits,
.$ 34,731.59 526,500.00
561,231.59
561,231,59
Deposits not available,
14,246.51
Advance Account,
8,503.12
2,461.53 556.41
16,708.04
9,059.53
Family Remittances,
27,612.06
27,612.06
Subsidiary Coins,
Money Order Account,
Exchange Account,
Crown Agents' Account,
500,000.00
500,000.00
79,264.46
79,264.46
7,732.30
7,732.30
Investments by Crown Agents..
Crown Agents' Advance Account. Cash in hand, 1st January, 1886,
TOTAL....
13,181.54 13,181.54 (1,315,227.46] 1,315,227.46 (1,280,000.00 1,280,000.00 140,701.05
140,701.05
2,706,718.45 2,611,977.32| 5,318,695.77
TOTAL EXPENDITURE,..
Deposits Available,
PAYMENTS.
Deposits not Available,. Advance Account, Family Remittances, Subsidiary Coins,
Money Order Account, Crown Agents' Account,.
Crown Agents' Advance Account,
Cash in hand, 31st December, 1886,
TOTAL,......
A. F. ALVES,
Examined.
Accountant,
FREDERICK STEV Acting Ar
TREASURY, HONGKONG, 18TH MARCH, 1887.
1.29
Clerk of Councils,
1,160
1,480.00 3,650.00
48,520.00
2,400.00
28.50
1,400.00 600.00 8.50
Surveyor General,
Postmaster General,.
1,200.00
200.00
970.00
220.00
Registrar General,
8,500.00
19,500.00
200.00
25.00
Harbour Master,....
102,106
23,836
45,468
1,160.00
1,175.69 55,003 52,084.75
46,999,13 79,356.21
100.69 22,822,14
1,160.00
:
53,260.44
1,742.66
126,355.34 24,249.34
22,922.83
43.008.23 2,050.11 45,058.34
913.17
409.66
340.00
40.00
100.00
Lighthouses,
7,508
770.00
70.00
1,170.00
170.00
Observatory,
5,820
30.00
30.00
Collector of Stamp Revenue,
4,822
9,819.63 21,819.63
Government Gardens & Plantations,
21,786
5,492.96 455.88
483.31 5,939.00
4.624.25 535.75
20,645.18 863.10
5.948.84
:
1,559.16
6.422.31
5,160.00 338.00
21,508.28
602.31
277.72
6,131.35 6,131.35
Judicial Departments,..
61,705
0,846.72 10,846.72
Ecclesiastical Department,
6,218
6,049.54 17,049.54
3,056.10
2,256.10
.0,853.13
853.13
:::
Educational
do.,
47,083
Medical
do.,
36,277
58,646.11 4,122.59 62,768.70 1,063.70
4,008.45 2,812.23 6,820.68 602.68
40,101.57 2,983.93 43,085.50
36,339.69 3,424.51
3,997.50
616.25
116,25
Police Magistrates' do.,
20,274
8,574.25
574.25
3,436.14
386.14
Police
do.,
205,761
17,286.77 3,681.98
172,586.14 21,032.74
3,487.20 39,764.20
20,968.75 694.75
193,618.88
12,142.12
4,767.56
867.56
3,986,00
286.00
Gaol
do.,
49,088
51,221.79 1,189.05
52,410.84
3,322.84
798.00
198.00
1,484.75
115.25 Fire Brigade
do.,
15,286
12,306.13 3,057.86
15,363.99
77.99
31,25
18.75
224.00
124.00
Pensions, Retired Allowances & Gratuities
33,000
12,276.81 25,471.13
37,747:94 4,747.94
3,615,00
615,00
8,589.00
411.00 Charitable Allowances,
4,000
3,372.00
3,372.00
:
628.00
1,202,50
297.50
10,393.04
1,393.04
Transport,
4,500
853.78
1,028.46
1,882.24
:
2,617.76
435.78
164.22
7,326.00
3,326.00
Works and Buildings,
81,200
72,631.19
1,285.77
73,916.96
1,982.40
1,682.40
18.101.75
3,101.75
Roads, Streets and Bridges,
37,500
36.175.17
36,175.17
:
:.
7,283.04
1,324.83
64.30
24.30
2,953.16
7,953.16
Interest,
372.50
172.50
955.00
455.00
Miscellaneous Services,
4,234.92
2,234.92
549.91
449.91
Military Expenditure,..............
4,412.28 4,412.28
86,787 88,082.44 23,822.54 111.904.98 25,117.98
97.82 118,187 124,463.86
124.561.68 6,374.68
4,412.28
495.00 1,446.00
5.00
...
1,446.00
1,753.99
753.99
Extraordinary Public Works..................
1,152,382 994,843.30 200,393.51 1,195,236,81 78,534.98 35,680.17
579,800 762,839.38 62,785.46 825,624.84 245,824.84
991.28
391.28
232.40
67.60
8,564.52
2,564.52
5,370.26
2,870.26
1,192.75
7.25
1,092.78
292.78
3,888.00
50.00
...
50.00 250.00
5,422.00 33.00
922.00 33.00
11,636.44
11,636.44
12,691.60
6,691.60
67,717.18
2,717.18
367,977.74 | 143,645.89 | 50,641.15
61,231.59
16,708.04
TOTAL EXPENDITURE..........
1,732,182 1,757,682.68 | 263,178.97 2,020,861.65 324,359.82 35,680.17
PAYMENTS.
Deposits Available,
Deposits not Available,.
Advance Account,
750,000.00
750,000.00
15,553,75
15,553.75
1,324,62 2,907.70
4,232.32
9,059.53
27,612.06 500,000.00 79,264.46
7,732.30
13,181.54 315,227.46
280,000.00
140,701.05
318,695.77
Family Remittances,
Subsidiary Coins,
Money Order Account, Crown Agents' Account,.
Crown Agents' Advance Account,
Cash in hand, 31st December, 1886,
36,606.34 36,606.34
41,384.48 327,985.18 369,369.66
68,982.72 68,982.72
36,000.00 1,296,931.79 1,332,931.79
615,384,62 615,384.62
104,772.92
104,772.92
TOTAL,.......................... .$ 2,706,718.45 2,611,977.32 5,318,695.77
LVES,
comuntant.
Examined.
FREDERICK STEWART,
Acting Auditor General.
A. LISTER,
Treasurer.
COMPARATIVE STATEMENT OF THE REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE OF THE COLONY
REVENUE.
1885.
1886.
INCREASE.
DECREASE.
EXPENDITURE.
C.
$
(.
$ c.
$
c.
LAND REVENUE :—
Leased Lands,
144,720.85
Lands not leased, and Quarries,
Fees on Grant of Leases, .
18,915.05 220.00
149,288.84 19.465.42
4,967.99
550.37
320.00
100.00
Treasurer,
RENTS, EXCLUSIVE OF LANDS :—
Markets,
68,318.88
Buildings, Piers,
LICENCES:-
5,921,50 185.00
65,863.65 7,293.00 881.20
2,455,23
1,371.50 696.20
:
Spirit,.
31,095.00
41,480.00
10,385.00
Pawnbrokers,
13,650.00
13,650.00
Auctioneers,
2,100.00
2,400.00
Tenements for Emigrants,
10.00
28.50
300.00 18.50
Emigration Brokers,
1,100.00
1,200.00
200.00
Judicial
Billiard Tables,
950.00
970.00
20.00
CIVIL DEPARTMENTS :-
The Governor,
Colonial Secretary,
Auditor,..
Clerk of Councils, Surveyor General, Postmaster General, Registrar General,. Harbour Master,..
Lighthouses,.
Observatory,
Collector of Stamp Revenue,.
Government Gardens and Plantation
Ecclesiastical
Opium,
153,751.64
178.300.00
24,748.36
Educational
Stamps,
Boarding Houses,
Marriage,
Chinese Undertakers,.
Money Changers,.
Marine Store Dealers,.
Shooting Licence,..............
TAXES:-
Municipal Rates,
200.00
200.00
Medical
Department.
do.,
do.,
do.,
368.00
340.00
28.00
Police Magistrates' do..
100.00
100.00
Police
785.00
770.00
15.00
Gaol
1,050.00
1,170.00
120.00
Fire Brigade
do.,
10.,
do.,
10.00
30.00
20.00
130,725.82
285,764.75
159,819.63 306,131.35 20,366.60
29,093.81
POSTAGE.
117,333.68
130,846.72 13,513.04
FINES, FORFEITURES AND FEES OF COURTS :—
Fines,
12,341.28 26,049.54
13,708.26
Pensions, Retired Allowances and Gratu Charitable Allowances,
Transport......
Works and Buildings,
Roads, Streets and Bridges,
Interest,
Miscellaneous Services,
Forfeitures,.
1,799.97
3,056.10
1,256.13
Military Expenditure,
Fees,
11,228.04
10,853.13
374.91
FEES OF OFFICE:-
Burials,
817.50
616.25
201,25
Licences for Junks, &c.,....
19,196.00
18,574.25
621,75
Registry of Boats,
3,097.52
3,436.14
338.62
Extraordinary Public Works,
Do. of Cargo Boats and Crews,
4,214.43
4,767.50
553.13
Do.
of Hawkers,
3,763.50
3,986.00
222.50
Cargo Boat Certificates,
791.00
798.00
7.00
Registration of Householders,
1,346.75
1,484.75
138.00
Do. of Servants, &c.,
49.50
31.25
18.25
Official Signatures... ....
102.00
224.00
122.00
Registration of Deeds,
2,764.00
3,615.00
851.00
Shipping Seamen,.
8,328.00
8,589.00
261.00
Examination of Masters, &C.,
1,372.50
1,202.50
170.00
Survey of Steam-ships, &c.,.
9,872.68
10,393.04
520.36
Registry Fees, &c., (Merchant Shipping Act),
461.00
435.78
25.22
Registry of Carriages, Chairs, &c.,
3,146.60
7,326.00
4,179.40
Registration of Companies,
1,037.72
1,982.40
Examination of Emigrants,
16,122.25
18.101.75
944.68 1,979.50
Registration of Births, &c.,
63.20
Light Dues,
26,023.67
Licences for Steam-launches,
335.00
Surveyor's Certificate for Steam-launches,.
795.00
64.30 32,953.16 372.50 955.00
1.10 6,920.49
37.50
160.00
Official Administrator, Assignee, &c.,
3,100.03
4,234.92
1,134.89
Registration of Trade Marks,.
329.95
549.91
219.96
Licences for Chinese Passenger Ships,
540.00
495.00
45.00
Medical Registration Fees,.
30.00
30.00
Bills of Health,
1,446.00
1,446.00
Sale of Government l'roperty,
1,531.63
1,753.99
222.36
Reimbursements,
21,766.58
26,836.99
5,070.41
Interest,
Miscellaneous Receipts,.
20,088.84 11,636.44 97,849.39 80,408.78
8,452.40
17,440.61
$1,251,889.701,367,977.74
146,165.66
30,077.62
Deduct Decrease,
Nett Increase,....
30,077.62
.$
116,088.04
TREASURY. HONGKONG, 18TH MARCH, 1887.
A. F. ALVES,
Accountant.
Examined,
FREDI
HE REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE OF THE COLONY OF HONGKONG IN 1885 & 1886.
886.
INCREASE.
..
$
C.
,288.84
4.567.99
.465.42
550.37
320.00
100.00
DECREASE.
EXPENDITURE.
1885.
1886.
INCREASE.
DECREASE.
c.
$
C.
$
C.
$ C.
The Governor,
.863.65
2.455.23
,293.00 881.20
1,371.50 696.20
,480.00
10,385.00
Lighthouses,.
,650.00
Observatory,
,100.00
300.00
CIVIL DEPARTMENTS :-
Colonial Secretary, Auditor...
Treasurer,
Clerk of Councils, Surveyor General,. Postmaster General,
Registrar General,.
Harbour Master,..
Collector of Stamp Revenue,..
34.591.57
37,418.29
2,826.72
23,817.85
22,838.78
979.07
5,952.51
5,953.98
1.47
14,645.12
12,454.59
2,190.53
1,159.01
1,160.00
0.96
55,795.35
53,260.44
2,534.91
119,314.94
126,355.34
7,040.40
23,346.71
22.922.83
45,096.53
45,058.34
423.88 38.19
5,442.11
5,948.84
506.73
6,631.31
6,422.31
6,723.29
5,160.00
209.03 1,563.29
28.50
18.50
Government Gardens and Plantations,
18,790.96
21,508.28
2,717.32
.200.00
200.00
Judicial
Department,
61,571.78
62,768.70
1,196.92
970.00
20.00
Ecclesiastical
do.,
6,218.00
6,820.68
602.68
.500.00
24,748.36
Educational
do.,
43,643 85
43,085.50
558.35
200.00
Medical
do.,
37,009.98
39,764.20
2,754.22
340.00
28.00
Police Magistrates' do.,
19,851.07
20,968.75
1,117.68
100.00
Police
do.,
192,768.53
193,618.88
$50.35
770.00
15.00
Gaol
do.,
48,580.84
52,410.84
3,830.00
.170.00
120.00
Fire Brigade
do.,
13,763.84
15,363.99
1,600.15
30.00
20.00
Pensions, Retired Allowances and Gratuities,
36,252.93
37,747.94
1,495.01
Charitable Allowances,
3,783.10
3,372.00
411.10
,819.63
29,093.81
Transport...
2,871.11
1,882.24
988.87
.131.35 20,366.60
Works and Buildings,
73,373.21
73,916.96
543.75
,846.72 13,513.04
Roads, Streets and Bridges,
41,763.08
36,175.17
5,587.91
Interest,
4,412.28
4,412.28
,049.54
13,708.26
Miscellaneous Services,
86,007.51
111,904.98
25,897.47
,056.10
1,256.13
Military Expenditure,
117,337.00 124,561.68
7,224,68
,853.13
374.91
616.25
,574.25
201.25 621.75
1,146,103.151,195,236.81
64,618.79
15,485.13
,436.14
338.62
Extraordinary Public Works,
475,147.24 825,624.84 350,477.60
...
,767.56
553.13
.986.00
222.50
798.00
7.00
,484.75
138.00
31.25
18.25
221.00
122.00
.615.00
851.00
,589.00
261.00
,202.50
170.00
,393.01
520.36
435.78
25.22
,326.00
4,179.40
,982.40
944.68
101.75
1,979.50
64.30
1.10
,953.16
6,920.49
372.50
37.50
955.00
160.00
,234.92
1,134.89
549.91
219.96
495.00
45.00 30.00
,446.00
1,446.00
,753.99
222.36
,836.99
5,070.41
,636.44
,408.78
8,452.40 17,440.61
,977.74
146,165.66 30,077.62
.$ 30,077.62
116,088.04
A. F. ALVES,
Accountant.
Examined,
1,621,250.39 2,020,861.65 415,096.39 15,485,13
Deduct Decrease,
Nett Increase,
FREDERICK STEWART,
Acting Auditor General.
.$
15,485.13
399,611.26
A. LISTER,
Treasurer.
165
No. 37
1886.
HONGKONG.
DESPATCH RESPECTING SIR GEORGE BOWEN'S DEPARTURE FROM THE COLONY,
Presented to the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 27th August, 1886.
The Secretary of State for the Colonies to the Officer Administering the
Government of Hongkong.
DOWNING STREET,
HONGKONG,
No. 20.
SIR,
1st February, 1886.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of Sir GEORGE BOWEN'S Despatch, No. 462, of the 18th of December, reporting the proceedings which took place on the occasion of his departure from the Colony.
I have read this despatch and its enclosures, with much interest; and as I gather from the terms of Sir GEORGE BOWEN's Address to the Legislative Council, and the reply thereto that it is not probable that Sir GEORGE BOWEN will return to the Colony, I have pleasure in availing myself of this opportunity of expressing my sense of the energy and ability with which he has devoted himself to the adminis- tration of the important Government of Hongkong, and of recording the satisfaction with which I have noticed his reference to the efficient co-operation afforded to him by the Legislature of the Colony, and by all branches of the Public Service.
The Officer Administering the Government of
HONGKONG.
I have, &c.,
(Signed),
FRED. STANLEY.
CIRCULAR.
227
No.
2
87.
HONGKONG.
CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING THE QUESTION OF DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR ASSISTANCE TO BRITISH TRADE ABROAD.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, on the 7th January, 1887.
SIR,
(1.)
DOWNING STREET,
17th November, 1886.
C. 4779. Part I.
C. 4779. Part II.
Board of Trade. 23rd August, 1886.
14th August, 1886.
I have the honour to transmit to you a copy of two Parliamentary Papers containing correspondence respecting the question of Diplomatic and Consular assistance to British Trade abroad.
2. I have also the honour to enclose a copy of a letter from the Board of Trade and its enclosures on this subject, in which reference is also made to the proposal of that Department to publish an Official Trade Journal, for the purpose of affording early information respecting actual and contemplated changes in Customs Tariffs and Regulations, as well as other useful information as to Trade generally.
3. I also transmit to you a copy of a letter from the Assistant Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, calling attention to the interest which has been awakened in regard to Tropical and other Fruits by the display in the several Courts at the Colonial and Indian Exhibition, and enclosing a list of questions. respecting Colonial Fruits, which he suggests should be answered as fully as possible by the Colonial Governments.
4. The remarkable growth and development of the Trade and resources of many of the Colonies, the extension of Telegraphs, and the more frequent and rapid communication between this Country and the British Colonies, have created a great amount of interest in Colonial Trade and Produce, which has been further stimulated by the Colonial and Indian Exhibition; and there is a constantly increasing demand for information on subjects connected with the productions and commerce of the Colonies. It is, therefore, very desirable, with a view to the encouragement and development of commercial interchange, that the Colonial Governments should furnish, as far as they are able, the desired information, for publication in this Country, respecting all branches of Colonial produce and manufactures, modern discoveries, and improvements in production, &c., Tariffs, and suggested alterations in them, and other matters of interest relating to Colonial Trade, in order that such information may be easily procurable by the public in this Country at a moderate cost, and without delay.
5. I need hardly observe that it is the desire of Her Majesty's Government to do all in their power to assist the development of Colonial Commerce, and that, with this view, arrangements have been made for publishing from time to time, in the new Trade Journal which the Board of Trade propose to issue monthly, Colonial commercial intelligence of interest and importance. This, it is believed, will supply a long-felt want, affording to the Colonies much-needed facilities for the dissemination of such information in this Country, and enabling Her Majesty's Government to answer many of the numerous enquiries made by merchants and others.
The Officer Administering the Government of
HONGKONG.
228
6. The chief points upon which information is desired will be best gathered from the accompanying Parliamentary Papers; and I need only express my hope that I shall receive the ready co-operation of yourself and of your Government, and that steps will be taken for furnishing me, as often as may be found convenient and necessary for publication in the proposed Board of Trade Journal, with any notes or items of news affecting the development of Colonial Trade, as well as with Commercial Reports, containing the latest and best information respecting the Colony under your Government.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient humble Servant,
EDWARD STANHOPE.
(COPY.)
C 3267.
(2.)
Board of Trade to Colonial Office.
BOARD OF TRADE,
SIR,
(Commercial Department),
LONDON, S.W.
23rd August, 1886.
I am directed by the Board of Trade to forward to you, to be laid before the Secretary of State for the Colonies, the accompanying copy of correspondence which has passed between this Department and the Foreign Office in relation to the periodical publication of information respecting Tariffs and Trade, and to request that you will be good enough to call Mr. Secretary Stanhope's attention to the remarks upon the same subject in the printed correspondence as to the assis- tance to be given by the Diplomatic and Consular Services to British Trade (Parliamentary Paper, Commercial, No. 16, 1886). From these papers Mr. Stanhope will see that it is in contemplation, on the Treasury giving their sanction, to issue in a handy form, at monthly or more frequent intervals, an official Trade Journal, for the purpose of affording early information respecting actual and proposed changes in Customs Tariffs, and the Regulations affecting the application of such Tariffs, as well as other useful particulars as to Tariffs and Trade generally. A specimen copy of such a publication is also enclosed for Mr. Stanhope's informa-. tion. I am to add that the Board of Trade are now in correspondence with the Lords of the Treasury, with a view to obtaining the necessary sanction to the issue of such a journal, and the requisite instructions to be given to the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office in regard to it.
It will be observed that the information given in the enclosed specimen number of the journal relates exclusively to Foreign Countries. The Board are, however, of opinion that it would be very desirable, and would add considerably to the utility of the publication, to make the journal more complete by the addition of similar particulars respecting the various British Colonies.
I am, therefore, to request that you will be good enough to move the Secretary of State, if he agrees, to cause such arrangements to be made as may be necessary to procure
such information from time to time, with a view to its being sent to this Office for incorporation in the Trade Journal, especially changes in Tariffs and Regulations relating thereto, and any important industrial development, such as the recent discovery of Gold in Western Australia, or other important matter. I am to add that such information as may be procured for this purpose will only be published under conditions and arrangements similar to those made with the Foreign Office in regard to particulars respecting foreign countries.
.
The Under-Secretary of State,
Colonial Office, S.W.
I have, &c.,
(Sd.)
R. GIFFEN.
(COPY.)
C 3863.
(3.)
Board of Trade to Foreign Office.
229
SIR,
BOARD OF TRADE,
(Commercial Department).
LONDON, S.W.
19th July, 1886.
With reference to previous correspondence, and to your letter of the 26th of May last, suggesting the publication of a despatch from Sir J. S. Lumley, enclosed therewith, respecting certain changes in the classification of the Italian Customs Tariff, I am directed by the Board of Trade to state, for the information of the Earl of Rosebery, that they have carefully considered the question of publishing periodically this and other similar information on Tariffs and Trade. The enclosed specimen number of such a publication has now been prepared in proof by their direction, and the Board of Trade propose to circulate copies among the Chambers of Commerce, together with a circular letter, of which a copy is enclosed, asking for their suggestions.
The Board of Trade are of opinion that a publication of this kind, containing the recent and proposed changes in Customs Tariffs, and their notes and regula- tions, as well as any short special reports on Tariffs and Trade, would be of great service to the commercial community of this country. Such a publication is not intended to supersede in any way either the Diplomatic and Consular Reports issued at the Foreign Office, or the periodical Returns of Foreign and Colonial Tariffs prepared in this Department, but to be supplementary to both; and this Board will be glad to have Lord Rosebery's sanction to publishing in the present number certain Reports from Her Majesty's representatives abroad which have been transmitted to this Department by his Lordship's direction, and generally to receive the co-operation and assistance of the Foreign Office in the matter, so as to make the Tariff and Trade Notices as useful as possible.
I have, &c.,
The Under-Secretary of State, Foreign Office.'
(Sd.)
HENRY G. Calcraft.
(4.)
Foreign Office to Board of Trade.
(COPY.)
C 3187.
:
FOREIGN OFFICE,
July 27th, 1886.
SIR,
I am directed by the Earl of Rosebery to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 17th instant, and to request that you will convey his Lordship's thanks to the Board of Trade. for affording him an opportunity of inspecting a proof of the publication of Tariff and Trade Notices which they propose to issue.
In reply, I am directed to convey to you his Lordship's complete concurrence with the plan of the new publication, which carries out views expressed on behalf of this Office in the month of February last, and to say that the Board may rely on the cordial co-operation of this Department in supplying information for its columns. He would, however, suggest that some gentleman from the Board of Trade may confer with this Department regarding the details of this publication, so far as they concern the Foreign Office, with the especial object of settling a method of determining what papers from this Office may be published by the Board, so that the risk of the publication of any confidential matter may be
}
230
avoided. His Lordship thinks it would be well that, when the information published in the proposed periodical. has been received from Her Majesty's Diplo- matic and Consular Agents abroad, the name of the Official who supplies it should be appended, and that when an extract is given, reference should be made to the Report itself.
•
The most convenient course to follow would probably be for this Office to indicate what information they consider may, with propriety, be made public through this channel at the time of its transmission; but, if the Board of Trade desire to publish extracts from other despatches which are sent to them for perusal, a proof of such matter should, in the first instance, be submitted to this Office.
The correspondence which I am forwarding in a separate letter to-day contains suggestions which may possibly be of service to the Board of Trade in deciding the lines of their new publication.
I am, &c.,
The Secretary,
Board of Trade.
(COPY.)
C 3267.
(Sd.)
J. BRYCE.
(5.)
Board of Trade to Foreign Office.
SIR,
BOARD OF TRADE,
(Commercial Department),
LONDON, S.W.
13th August, 1886.
In their letter of the 30th ultimo, the Board of Trade have already referred to Mr. Bryce's letter of the 27th ultimo, respecting the proposed Trade Journal to be issued by the Board, and they have thanked the Foreign Office for their commu- nication.
I am now to state, for the information of the Earl of Iddesleigh, that the Board of Trade are applying to the Treasury for their sanction to a Journal in the form and of the character described in their previous communications, and they will inform their Lordships of the approval which the Foreign Office has given to the proposal. I am also to state that in doing so, the Board of Trade will express their agreement with the various suggestions contained in your letter of the 27th ultimo, namely: 1st, that some gentleman from the Board of Trade should confer with the Foreign Office regarding the details of the publication; 2nd, that the name of the Official in the Diplomatic and Consular Services abroad supplying any information should be mentioned; and, 3rd, that when an extract is given, reference should be made to the Report itself. The Board of Trade also agree that it will be expedient, as the Foreign Office suggests, for the latter Department. to communicate what information they consider may, with propriety, be made public; and that if the Board of Trade desire to publish extracts from despatches sent to them by the Foreign Office for perusal, a proof of such matter should, in the first instance, be submitted to the latter.
The Board of Trade will undertake that these matters will receive their attention, and they will endeavour in every possible way to avail themselves of the assistance which your Department will be able to afford.
I have, &c.,
(Sd.)
HENRY G. Calcraft.
The Under-Secretary of State,
Foreign Office.
Y
(COPY)
:
231
SIR,
(6.)
Kew Gardens to Colonial Office.
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS, KEW,
14th August, 1886.
I have the honour to report, for the information of the Secretary of State for the Colonies, that considerable interest has been awakened in regard to Tropical and other fruits, by the display of fruits in the several Courts at the Colonial and Indian Exhibition; and by the sale of fresh fruit in the Colonial Market attached to this Exhibition.
2. The fact that excellent fruits, such as oranges, lemons, pears, apples, &c., can be obtained in a fresh state from the Southern Hemisphere (Natal, Australia, &c.) at a time when fruits of this kind are not obtainable in the Northern Hemisphere, has suggested the idea that the resources of our Colonial Possessions in this respect are capable of great expansion, and the subject one well worthy of being thoroughly investigated.
3. The abundant character and the high qualities of the Tropical fruits of the West Indies are well known; but it was only the other day (on the occasion of a lecture which I gave at the Colonial and Indian Exhibition) that many people realized that these fruits can be brought to England in a fresh state. and are capable of contributing largely to the food supply of the inhabitants of these Islands.
4. The fruit trade in the West India Islands is now of the estimated annual value of £750,000; but if suitable markets were forthcoming and knowledge enlarged on the subject, there is no reason why this trade should not assume such proportions as would go a good way towards relieving the depression under which these Islands are at present labouring.
5. As regards the actual capabilities in this direction of other portions of the Empire, and especially of the Cape and Australian Colonies, little is accurately known at home; and hence I would venture to suggest that inquiry be made and a summary of information published calculated to draw particular attention to the subject.
6. I enclose herewith a number of questions which I have submitted to Mr. Thiselton Dyer; and I am directed by him to convey his approval of them, and to suggest that a copy of these questions be forwarded to each of the Colonial Governments, with the request that the information desired be supplied as fully as possible, together with copies of any official reports, documents, or returns published in the Colonies directly or indirectly bearing upon the subject.
The Honble. R. H. MEADE, C.B., Colonial Office, Downing Street.
(COPY.)
(7.)
I have, &c.,
(Sd.)
D. MORRIS.
INFORMATION RESPECTING COLONIAL FRUITS.
1. Please give a list (giving both local and scientific names) of the chief fruits grown in the Colony, in order of importance.
2. During what months are the chief fruits obtainable? What quantities of each (approximately) are available for export, and what are the wholesale prices locally?
3. What fruits are at present exported (1) in a fresh or (2) in a preserved state? Please state the destination, the quantity, and the estimated value of each
sort.
4. Are all or any of the fruits mentioned above capable of being produced in much larger quantities than at present? If so, what steps are necessary to start or develop a fruit trade; and what inducernents, if any, do local men specially desire to open or extend a trade in fresh or preserved fruits, either with the mother country or neighbouring States?
5. What fruits are now imported into the Colony, either fresh or preserved ? Please state kind, quantity, and value, and the market from whence derived.
6. Please add any special points of interest connected with the fruits of the Colony herein reported upon, which are desirable to place on record.
;
HONGKONG.
303
No. 19
87.
No. 62.
RETURN OF UNSTAMPED CORRESPONDENCE.
Presented to the Legislative Council, by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 25th March, 1887.
Postmaster General to Acting Colonial Secretary.
GENERAL POST OFFICE, HONGKONG, 23rd December, 1886.
SIR,
I have the honour to enclose a copy of a Postal Notice which I
propose to issue in case it should be approved by His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government. I may say that the measures indicated in that Notice are simply the carrying out of Ordinance No. 6. of 1884, Section 16 (1) and might therefore legally be put in force without any notice at all, but as they are of the nature of a new departure, and as they will at first provoke some criticism and a good deal of inevitable grumbling, I feel bound to explain their necessity and advantage, and to make sure that, in the brief period of discontent which will ensue, I shall be sup- ported by the Government.
2. The evil which it is sought to check rises chiefly at Swatow, Amoy and Foochow. It is the fashion at these ports no to post letters, but to send them on board the steamers. The consequence is that, when the Coast Mail arrives here, over and above the mail bags, there is a large box full of what are called loose letters, all of which are thrown upon this Office pell-mell, very often within an hour or two of the departure of the mail for Europe.
3. Now, so long as these letters bear postage stamps, this practice is not open to serious objection. To verify the postage and obliterate the stamps takes but a few minutes, and the letters are ready for delivery or transmission.
for
4. Suppose, however, that out of the whole mass, two or three hundred letters are not stamped. They first have to be picked out, then each one must be weighed and the postage marked upon it. Then they must be distributed to the boxes of the various firms to which they are addressed, so many for this bank, so many that, and so on. The total postage due by each firm must be added up, and an entry made in the account of that firm. Then the letters can be delivered. And all this, perhaps, at 10 o'clock on French Mail morning.
5. The consequence is that the delivery of those letters which are prepaid is delayed by those which are not; in other words the mercantile houses here suffer a delay in the delivery of their correspondence for the sake of the easy-going habits of firms at Swatow, Amoy and Foochow, who, so long as their letters get delivered, do not care who pays the postage; in fact they probably prefer that it should be charged to their correspondents here.
6. A considerable number of the Coast Firms, perhaps two-thirds, do stamp all their letters. There is no reason why all should not do so. I may say, moreover, that the work of this Office has increased so much, and has become so pressing, that it is very undesirable to allow precious time to be wasted in this system of charging letters to accounts, à relic of a state of things to which I am about to refer.
The Hon. FREDERICK STEWART,
Acting Colonial Secretary,
&c.,
&c.,
&c.
:
304
7. About twenty-five years ago there were no postage stamps here at all. All the merchants sent their letters to the Post Office just as they were, the letters were weighed, the postage marked on them, and the total charged to the merchants' accounts. When Sir HERCULES ROBINSON insisted on introducing Postage Stamps and prepayment, there was quite an outburst of discontent. The Governor was memorialised, and begged not to do anything of the sort, and when entreaties failed, dogged opposition was tried. Some of the merchants announced that they would not stamp their letters. Of course this position had to be abandoned.
8. The non-stamping of letters on the Coast is a relic of this time. All the inconvenience, and all the expense fall on Hongkong. The practice can be stopped in three months with a little firmness, and those who most dislike the change will be the first to admit its salutary nature.
9. Should His Excellency approve of this proposal, I shall give the widest possible publicity to the notice, by sending a copy to every mercantile house south of Shanghai.
11.
I have, &c.,
A. LISTER, Postmaster General.
Enclosure in Postmaster General's Letter No. 62 of 1886.
POST OFFICE NOTICE.
With reference to the Order in Council of September 24th, 1885, by which a Table of Rates of Postage was sanctioned, one of the regulations of which was that the prepayment of local postage between Hongkong and the Ports of China in either direction should be compulsory, His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government has been pleased to order as follows:-
On and after the first of March next, local correspondence received at Hongkong from the Ports of China, and not prepaid by means of Hongkong Postage stamps,
will not be delivered or sent on to destination.
Such correspondence will be returned to the senders, being opened for that purpose, if necessary, under the powers vested in the Postmaster General by section 16 of Ordinance No. 6 of 1884.
This notice applies especially to correspondence sent on board steamers for transmission otherwise than in the Mails.
A. LISTER, Postmaster General.
GENERAL POST OFFICE,
HONGKONG, 20th January, 1887.
HONGKONG.
No. 107.
181
No. 42
1886.
HONGKONG.
DESPATCH RESPECTING THE RECENT WATER FAMINE.
Presented to the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government,
on the 17th September, 1886.
The Right Honourable Earl Granville, K.G. to the Officer Administering the Government of Hongkong.
SIR,
DOWNING STREET,
19th July, 1886.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 184, of the 1st of June last, reporting on the serious want of water in the Colony during the latter part of May.
I learn with satisfaction the prompt measures that you were able to take to relieve the distress amongst the poorer inhabitants arising from the drought, and the assistance which you received from the Military and Naval Authorities, and from Members of the Civil Community.
I have, &c.,
The Officer Administering the Government of
HONGKONG.
(Signed), GRANVILLE.