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celebration take the form of a permanent institution of some description to be called by Her Majesty's name, and of a fete and general rejoicing.
Mr. Francis wished to amend this by striking out the first clause concerning a permanent institution and substitute for it: "A liberal subscription to the institute for the United Kingdom, India and the Colonies which is now being formed in London."
He then gave his arguments in support of his amendment. He was fearful that Hongkong would not be able to raise enough money to establish by itself an institution worthy of the occasion.
He pointed out that a very large sum would be needed to purchase ground, put up buildings and provide a proper endowment for an institution in Hongkong. He believed: "If we are not to put up something worthy of the Colony, we had better do nothing of the sort."
He suggested that the expenses for the fete and rejoicings be paid out of a Jubilee subscription fund and that the balance be sent as a contribution to the proposed institute in London.
The chairman then had a hurried consultation with Mr. Francis: After it Mr. Francis stated that he had been asked to change his amendment as his designation of a particular project was premature.
A definite proposal for a permanent memorial was to be placed before the meeting in a later resolution.
In deference to the chairman's opinion, Mr. Francis rephrased his amendment to read: "That the celebration take the form of a fete and general rejoicing and a liberal subscription to some public purpose."
Mr. Francis could then, if he wished, propose an amendment to the resolution naming a permanent memorial when it was put. In the amendment he could name the project he favoured.
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