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(Continuation)
LA PRAIK DOUGLAS.
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The window forms five tall "lancet lights" surmounted by a beautiful rose in an arrangement to which the design is well suited. The subjects are the Ascension and Crucifixion of Our Lord with some types.
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"The upper parts of the lancets are occupied by the Blessed Virgin and twelve Apostles witnessing the Ascension of our Lord whose figure surrounded by angels fills the rose window. Below and extending across the whole of the central part of the five lights, is the Crucifixion. Under this again are four "types" of a true sacrifice, the sacrifice of Abel, of Abraham, of Melchisedeck and of Noah; the central opening being occupied with a type of the Ascension viz. Elijah being taken up to heaven in the fiery chariot.
The subjects are all executed from admirable designs, in the style prevalent in the large churches of Flanders, and Germany during the sixteenth century, the breadth and boldness of which are especially adapted for large buildings. The colours are very fine, and notable for softness generally wanting in modern stained glass, which has not been acted on by the mellowing influence of time.
"The cost of this window, we understand is about £1,000 sterling.
"We may mention that the same firm have recently supplied several windows for the new Trinity Church at Shanghai. These include one to the memory of the late Mr. Fitzroy, another in memory of Mr. Lawrence, and a third of Mr. Pritchard, R.N., A larger one is now being constructed for the same church as a memorial to the Rev. John Hobson, many years Consular Chaplain at Shanghai.
Probably only a few residents to-day even among worshippers at St. John's Cathedral are aware of the identity of whom this beautiful window commemorates.
However, there were still the coastal ports to be dealt with, and as far back as 1860, Mr. Douglas Lapraik who must be reckoned as the Colony's principal shipping pioneer had rounded the line which later developed into the well-known Douglas Steamship Company. This became a limited liability concern in 1883, and the following extract from the Hongkong Telegraph of July 28, that year might be quoted as it gives an admirable summary of the company's history.
"Of all the public enterprises commenced in Hongkong of late years, not one has had a more genuine ring or shown more favourable prospects than that of which was circulated the other day.
"The object of this important undertaking is to acquire and carry on the established and lucrative business founded in 1860 by the late Douglas Lapraik and since that time associated with the popular local firm of Messrs. Douglas Lapraik & Co. There was a time when the whole of the coasting trade between Hongkong and the ports of Swatow, Amoy and Foochow as well as the major portion practically monopolised by the admirably appointed fleet of steamers bearing the Maltese Cross flags of this well-known Hongkong firm. However, of late years formidable competition has arisen and no doubt owing to this opposition we presume Messrs. Douglas Lapraik & Co., have decided to form their splendid business into a limited liability company.
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