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for their organizers to send round subscription books in order to raise the necessary funds. In country districts, the usual targets were native sons living and working in the urban areas of Hong Kong, or men sojourning in various places overseas.
The care taken with their preparation reflected the desire - and equally likely, the need to show respect to the recipients. Like the attendance books mentioned above, the subscription books were drawn up in an approved style, and it was again usual to have them written by a well-known local scholar or, at the very least, by someone whose calligraphy would not disgrace the organizers (Plate 18 shows one such book, dated 1940, which survives from Tsing Yi island, New Territories).
In the 1950s, as long before, subscription books were still being prepared in this form, and I recall my chief clerk in the former District Office South bringing in a number of them for my endorsement with the office seal. However, by the 1970s things were different, and I do not recollect seeing these in the District Office, Tsuen Wan, at least not in the time-honoured form.
Who were the calligraphers?
For the production of all the items listed above, writers of a certain calibre and reputation were required. Some of the paid secretaries had these skills, and were greatly esteemed for them, but the associations were also able to enlist the help, from among their closer contacts,
of other men with claims to scholarship, who were able and willing to write the scrolls, couplets, presentation items and subscription books mentioned in this paper.
In rural districts, these persons might be a local teacher or headmaster. Their place in the local community was assured, especially if, as was often the case, they were men of worth as well as talent. In the early period of my service, before they were removed by Father Time, there might, too, still be a few rare birds who, like old Mr. Lo, had passed the imperial examinations, as well as a greater number who had achieved honourable failure. Greatly esteemed for their education and attainments, but by then of advanced age, they were still willing to assist for as long as they were able, recognizing the need for their participation, and conscious of the great face given thereby. I have