4. Early in the present year it was determined that, considering the unprecedented demand for building land and the consequent high prices, the sale of this Hill could not with justice to the public any longer be delayed, and I accordingly directed it to be included in a sale of some other Crown lands in the neighbourhood, fixed for the month of April last.
The result, which was reported in my Despatch No. 54 of the 24th April last, proved the wisdom of the decision, for this Hill, which was previously withheld from sale on the plea that it would fetch nothing, produced a premium of $3,500, and brings in addition a ground rent to the Colony of £46, 6.6. per annum.
5. So far then from the Colonial Chaplain having any just cause of complaint, he should, I think, congratulate himself on having been allowed for nearly three years indulgence, which he was distinctly informed would be limited to twelve months.
6. It is no doubt true, as Mr Irwin observes in his letter to Your Grace, that house rent is dearer in Hongkong than in any other part of Her Majesty's Dominions; but this is a point which affects all public servants here equally, and should be considered in fixing their salaries, as the Government do not provide quarters for any of its servants, with the exception of the Governor. But if on this ground, a sale of public property which
Page 30
Page 31