Then these tables the Committee is of opinion, that the following conclusions are warranted on this subject. That the Europeans in the Artillery square have had, on the whole, a greater amount of Admission, that is percentage of sick, but the ratio of mortality has been far less than either at West Point, or Leighton's Hill. The Natives show some difference. The average percentage of sick is still greater in the Artillery square, but mortality is double in the 40th R.I.S. as compared with the Native Artillery details. 4. The 39th Regt. M.S. during the 5 months they occupied the Artillery quarters, though the admissions were somewhat less, their mortality trebled the native incidence; and doubled that of the 41st M.I. Act.
Is such sickness to be attributed to the nature of the buildings, to the site, or to other causes.
The sickness was so general, that hardly any person escaped. It arises more from Climate than from any cause connected with the buildings, which no doubt have considerable influence on the health. The Mat barracks of the village are not so good in many respects as the Barracks in Artillery Square. Their situation is different, being on the beach, and on ground about twenty feet above sea level. At the same time it may be stated that in general the buildings in question are adapted to give adequate protection in a climate like that of Hongkong. The barracks in the Artillery square are not lofty enough, are too narrow, and the floors are not sufficiently raised. The position is well ventilated by breezes from the north and East; but, to the South East and West, spurs from the range of hills behind partially obstruct...