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517
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520
Q-Roughly speaking, how many weeks' water have we got ?
A--The present supply will carry us through to the end of March at the present rate of consumption.
Q-Then what is going to be done if the supply is not sufficient?
A--We'll further prescribe the hours.
Q-And if there is no water in the end?
A--I think we will give you some only; we shall have to limit the actual times in which we do it.
Q-Have you no suggestion or idea as to supplementing the water from Tytam by the carriage of water from Canton by steamers?
A-Nothing has been done.
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Q--It has been thought of?-
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A-But no proposals have been made yet.
Q--Is it going to be done?
A--I don't think so. We shall have ample water to carry us through. At the present rate, we ought to carry through.
By Mr. Shewan.--You could sink wells?
A--Oh yes, we could sink wells.
By Mr. Thurburn.--With regard to these two reservoirs you are making below Tytam, there is a certain amount of gathering space below the reservoir, would that be sufficient to fill them without any overflow from Tytam ?
A--I hardly think that would be sufficient.
Q-The two reservoirs will be a great assistance during the dry season? A--They will be.
By the Chairman.-Is your staff sufficient?
A-It is hardly sufficient taking into consideration that the work comprises drain- age as well as water.
Q--Is your staff sufficient for the water works?
A-It is sufficient so far as the water works go, but as my duties are divided be- tween water and drainage works practically, it means that one of them suffers.
Q-What suggestion have you to make with regard to the staff?
A-I think that an Assistant Engineer should be appointed to take charge of drain- age works.
Q--To take complete charge?
A-No, as an assistant.
Q-For the drainage works, I see you have Messrs. WHEEL, BAKER, and three Chinese ?
A-Yes.
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Q-Have you any other suggestion with regard to the staff?
A-I think there should be a better paid man in charge of the accounts.
Q-Who is in charge of the accounts at present ?
A-I have a Chinaman who gets $10 per month.