the

( 16 )

A. Yes, in fact this morning as I was coming down from the Peak, I could see vapour being driven up one of the gratings.

By Dr. Cantlie.

few

171.-Is this new then?

A.Well there has been a good deal of drainage in that district during the past years and I think many of the water courses formerly open have been covered up.

172.-Do you think that there is any connection then between the so-called tam- pering of the drains and the fever?

A.-I would not have a drain near my house if I could help it. If we have any- thing let us see it. If there is filth remove it and take it away. This island was made by nature for surface drainage not underground.

173.-Was there surface drainage before?

A.To a certain extent, it was not covered up so much as now.

174.-Then you think the covering up of the drainage has something to do with the fever?

ledge.

A.-Well the only thing I can see is the coincidence I have no practical know-

175.-How long is it since it was covered up?

A.-It has been going on for years.

176.-Was this neighbourhood healthy before 1886?

A. My house was perfectly healthy.

177. Have your coolies suffered before?

A.-Not to that extent.

178.--But they have suffered?

A.—Well, I think they always suffer from malaria according to their description. They come and tell you they are hot inside. You send them away or give them a day or two's rest.

179.-Do they suffer more now than before?

A. In 1870 they suffered; my own boy died.

180. Was it as bad then as it is now?

A.-Well, the foreigners did not suffer at all in this way.

181. And there were no drains at all?

A.-Well they would not be so perfect as now, or so imperfect.

By Dr. Manson.

182.-Are there any sewers or drains at Quarry Bay?

A.-No.

183.-People die there from fever don't they?

A. They do.

Share This Page