statement that, for the year the average nett earning was $10, this cannot be reckoned exhorbitant remembering the short life of a ricksha coolie, and is not more than can be earned by a cargo coolie.
If a system of tickets could be adopted it would, in my opinion, save many disputes especially with people who do not carry very small change, and who generally receive Chinese coins in exchange. I have spoken to Mr. HEWETT on the Shanghai system which, he tells me, works well, and if such tickets were issued by Government, probably books of them would be bought freely and used by sailors, &c., &c. As to the amount, a sum equal to one penny farthing does not appear to be very startling even for the shortest journey, and is decidedly moderate for fifteen minutes, but this could be considered in Executive Council. Increased competition must bring down the earnings and with lower fares we might find such a curtailment in the number of rickshas as would reproduce the inconvenience felt last year.
Circulate for Executive Council.
10.12.01.
H. A. B.