The burial ground originally allotted was reserved for the Protestant population extensively, while the great and unforeseen mortality among the troops has unhappily contributed to fill it very rapidly. Its location, besides, is objectionable, as being too much within the town itself of Victoria.
A Committee of Health was accordingly formed some time back for the purpose of fixing a new site; and for improving the method of conducting funerals. In consequence of their report, it was resolved that the existing burial ground should be closed, and that a new one to the East of Victoria should be established in a ravine on the right, after passing through the gap which is at the extreme end of the town in that direction. A wall across the mouth of the ravine, with a gate in the centre, and a short road approaching it were considered sufficient.
The Major General and the Surveyor General were directed to furnish an Estimate for the same.
It was at the same time resolved, that a burial ground should be opened at the West of Victoria for the poorer classes at a lower fee, and a variety of regulations were passed, as recorded in the Minutes of the Executive Council for the 20th September.
On the 18th November, the advisability of establishing the Assistant Police Magistrate, Mr. Hillier, at Shekpaiwan, instead of Chekchu was considered, the Major General allowing him a small office within the Barracks during his temporary visits to the latter place. It was accordingly resolved that a building suited to the accommodation of the Assistant Magistrate and his force should be forthwith commenced at Shekpaiwan, according to plans and Estimates.