HONGKONG.
ITS MARVELLOUS DEVELOPMENT. Following is the account Mr. A. J. Augier, editor and proprietor of the London & China Bxpress, who visited Hongkong recently, soot to his paper concerning the Colony:-
THE HONGKONG TELEGRAPH FRIDAY JULY 26 1907.
ed to me that the time has now'arrived when greater facilities should be extended" in the
Fans.
As' to
239
this in prospect Hongkong need not fear that plentiful and adequate supply of good water, ample for all purposes, will not be at its disposal. Incidentally to the constinction to the Team reservoir exicasion, which is on the point of completion, a new road has been provided, along which the pipe lines are laid from the pumping station. This provides new walk, and as
is picturesque it gives Hongkong another picnic route that may be reached over the Wong-as-chong gap.
la character
inust acknowledge the courtesy of Mr. Chatham, the head of the Public Works Department of the Colony, in taking me over! the new works, and for giving me the figures'! have quoted.
Whatever may be the condilons of the mo mout in Hongkong, whether business is good, bad, or indifferent, we may always remember the words of Dr. Eitel in his "History of the Colony of Hoogkong." This was published in 1895; but what the learned doctor, who had been a resident in the colony for so many years, wrote then is equally applicable so and we hope may be so for many years to come. "He states: "It requires no propbet's gift to see that the politics of the near future centra in the East,
Contests will be sure to arise, and in these conteria, Hongkong will be one of the stations most important for the general strength of the British Empire, Hongkong will yet bave a prominent place institutioom. the future of the British Empire. This is a very different opinion, formulated after long. kong had been under the British flag for over half a century, to that recorded by one of its earliest historians. The shades of the late Montgomery Martin must be turning uneasily
'they could be cognisant of what the city of just previous to my leaving the Colony, but lancy displayed in the work, would have been requirements; but it is much to be reg been obtained by clearing away a hili, wa site fibulidings and of the population has been so Victoria is at the present time. There exist likewise the undreamed of lows, stretching above, all along what is generally known as the Peak, and the equally unforeseen Town on the adjacent Kowloon peninsula. Martin gave it as dictum that Hongkong was a "useless and barren rock, unlikely to be of the faintest value to us or any other European Power" and 60 years ago the leading London organ-predicted its downfall.
THE SANITARY COMMISSION,
A matter that has caused a good deal of attention has been the doings of the Sanitary Board and the resultant species of Royal Com. mission appointed to inquire into its proceed ings and working. The report had bean sent in had not been made public. The inquiry in volved in great number of sittings and the examination of a large number of wit acists. Judging by the little that has leaked out concerning the report it would seem, if the recommendations of the Com- mission are to be followed, that fresh legis
Considering the lation is foreshadowed. number of building ordinances and sanitary laws that have been passed, this would seem to be unfortunate, even fnecessary. Be that as may, the effect of the Commission has been startling in other ways. It has resulted in zu out of 60 employés of the Sanitary Board being dismissed. The Commission was appointed to inquire into the corruption alleged to exist.
establishment
that it has been constructed on its present nito.
THE KOWLOON RAILWAY,
uggested by a strong local committed in 1896 Work on the Kowloon section of the line the best position for the new Post Office. The new building for that purpose immediately educational way on behalf of white chil that rues from the peninsula oppvely adjoining the whaif seems to be, however, a
Canton has been actively dren. The numbers: have greatly increased, to Victoria
The new Naval Yard works are on the and at the same time the parents have not in progress for some time. The whole better solution, as regards position, "ody the same financial ability that they possessed fine within the new territory is about 21
polat of completion by the contractors, and in days gone by to send their progeny home miles in length, running through rather could be turned over in a very few months for education. Dollars are not so plentiful, broken country what the French would and if exchange has moved up of late, it is still term accidente. A tunnel about 1 mile has to if the Admiralty would definitely make up some of the details considerable work, and has meant much below what it used to be, and the conan be constructed through the main range, and is their minds
the reclamation of some 70 acres including quent dray bears more heavily on many classes & fairly formidable piece of work. A shaft has of the community. The mattor was even men bean sunk педт either terminus; between the
the practical enclosing of 91 acres of boat tioned to me in Manila, whence a certain nam
two shafts roughly one mile has to be tuanalled
basin where
there is a depth of 30. f, and ber of children are sent for purposes of educa through tolerably hard granite all the way.
ibeam fitted for lifting weights on board ves. tion to Hongkong. This, of course, may be The shifts give four faces to work on instead
sela repairing. There are four shears to lift merely a desire to get advantages near by that of two, and will later assist ventilation. The
,20. Lons each, and one of the capacity of 50 would only be derived from sending children tunnel is for single line, which to the ordinary
The new dock from which the ester home. At the same time, conditions of life
man with an eye on what the traffic should be construction dam has not yet been removed is
Financial reasons, I tin- and residence, and the consequently increasing, seems to be wrong,
A fine piece of granite faced work with cemont derstand, are the cause of the double line not difficulty of sending children home, seem to point to the time having arrived when some bcing provided for. There are now about foundations of ra ft. to 15 ft. The walls are thing more might be done for the white 3,000 men on the various works-tunnelling, granite faced. There is a depth to 33 ft. oa population than can be obtained at existing in embanking, and making bridge foundations. the approaching channel and entrance to the The funnel is expected to take three years at dock, which would be sufficient to take in a least to complete, and it was the earcest wish Dreadnought. Efficient pumping appliances macbine and engineer' shops, boat-house, of the ex-Governor, Sir Matthew Nathan, to are being now erected, whilst the power house, see the conclusion of the work before his term of office expired. His removal to Natal will foundry and stores houses are all well un- prevent his participating in this conclusion-der way. It is a fine piece of work, and one that, judging from the kesaness his Excel- should bring the yard well on time for modern very dear to him. The three years necessary to complete the tunnel will give time for thee, Naval Vard itself and this new extension Chinese portion of the line from the Kowloon is on land that will be sorely needed for pur- frontier station to Chaton to be constructed poses of extending the city of Victoria. It The loan agreement has already been signed cuts it into two portions. The Hongkong public was perhaps remiss in that it did not with the British an eco raised in London. awake to the importance of the matter until and the money bad been Work has to be started within eight months it was almost too late to stop the new scheme. At the same time, the value of the old Naval Yard would have met the of the signature of the contract. The portion of the line should not be difficult to construct, but there will be a certain amount of bridge whole cost of its removal to another site, and the erection of a new yard thoroughly work, and notably a fair sized bridge to cross the Tungkiang (East River). I may note that up to date in every way. It could have been the terminus at the Kowloon end will be on at no cost to the nation, which would have the Ilongkong and Whampoa tension. It may likewise be pointed out that, reclaimed land in Lunghom Hay, opposite the been saved the sum spent on the present ex- particularly in summer time, when everything is Dock Company.
One of the terms of the contract between the open, the noise from the yard must consider Chinese Government and the British and Chinably affect the hospitals stationed almost im- ese Corporation provides that the Viceroy of the mediately above it, whilst life at Headquarter when such work as riveting is in progress. two Kwang shall arrange separate terms with House will be rendered almost unbearable regard to joining together the Canton line to that of the Kowloon line. it may be said that One is simont led to wonder whether it would not be worth while to even yet make a bid for the line should be worked throughout as noe
the property for purpose of extension of the town on the basis of the erection, of a naval single undertaking, and that in this respeci
yard elsewhere. The whole are of 70 account must be taken of the cost of construct
yard, would ing the Kowloon section. Another matter that break in Canton, as it is at present apparently ly be termed vandalism, though it might saveur tion with the Hankow line. There must be be available for building sites. It could scarce- An electric of extravagance-an extravagance that would contemplated by the Chinese. tramway connecting the two stations will probably pay for itself in the long rub. It is be a pour working machine for through traffic, true land at present shows a downward ten- owing to the Chinese keeping out of the which requires two extra handlings besides dentel and ant investing at the moment. This the cost of haulage between the two termini. Finally it will be necessary to definitely is a phase that will probably pass Tem- decide that there is no mistake about porarily, it is to beassumed, wealthy Chineseare British management of the line, not only not bringing their families to Hongkong to the same extent as they did a few years ago. Other during the currency of the loan by which the Chinese portion will be construc ed, but in wise the Chinese remain the power they have logg TRADE AND COMMERCE.
addition subsequently to that period, or the been in the island. They exhibit many charac Considering the comparatively recent accurwelfare of the Kowloon section may be jeo- terististics, and one could not fail to note, ience of the disastrous typhoon of last year the sardised. These three points must be kept amongst other things, their keen appreciation evidences of wreckage at the time I write-in clearly in front to safeguard the interests of of the l'ublic Gardens, April were few. Wharves destroyed were the colony, and the money it has sunk in the stir replaced with only temporary bamboo enterprise. erections, the prarade still showed on the tail of Stonecutters Island, the Phenix had been sold, and was being dismantled, the French destroyer Freule was completing for sea again; and some other reminders of the extent of loss property remained. But much shipping had aiready been raised, repaired, and was at work again well within six months, and other repara tions had been carried out. There was enough to show the extensiveness of the destruction so swiftly effected, and to remind one of the The relief fund that was raised was closing its account during the period of my visit. The sum of $280,000 tad been privately collected, which may be considered an excellent result. A contribution received from Tong-King was much appreciated, but it was not merged into the land, but will be utilised to erect a monu ment to the French sailors who were drowned in the typhoon.
adjacent to the Taiked sugar refinery. The First thing that claims attention is the fine dock, all granite faced and lined, which has been constructed half out of the land and half bullt unt on the reclamation. This dick in 750 ft in length, by 88 ft. width at the top of the entrance, and 120 ft. inside measurement. There is 345 on the sill at high water spring tides. The caisson is of the now, sliding type, which, when the dock is opened, slides into a, recess at the side. Besides the dry dock there are thres hauling up slips, one of which is 1,030 ft. on the rail by sa ft broad, and the ether two are 980 ft, each on the rail, and 60 ft. wide. Any noe of these three will take 2,700 tons deadweight, which is sufficient to handle
The new waterworks at Kowloon' are like any vessel of the ordinary coaster type in Far Eastern waters. These slips are constructed wise considerable in extent. They are also parallel with the dock. There is likewise a being carried out by a Csiness contractor. As slip set at right angles to and at some distance the Public Works Department has got the of away from the head of the dock, launching in requisite staff to supervise these works, as well to the barbour. It is intended for the construc-as the Tytam works and the current work tion of vessels of about 2,500 tons, which is up the department, the Kowloon scheme in being to the requirements of most coaster-type beats. supervised by Massre, Denison, Ram, and over the works, was himself in the Public To provide the decessary accommodation for Gibbs. Mr. Gibbs, who kindly showed me Works Department when the Kowloon scheme. station and the accompanying machine, foun there decks, for the pumping and power
was drawn up, so that he was conversant with great deal of land; amounting in all to some co the requirements. Kowloon had a supply that dry, fitting, and other shops and accessories, a arres, has been levelled or reclaimed. The was provided by pumping, to a small bill:at of spoil necessary 61 in the reclamation has the rear of the town, The recent growth
new works provide an adequate quantity for. of which in turn has been converted into rapid that it has quite patron the supply. "The available fiat ground. The main road proceed- ing eastward formerly ran hrough about where probably all developments in the Peninsula town for some time to come. The supply which is drawn from the back of the main centre of the dock now occurs. It has been deflected at the back of the yard. No less than 1,350,000 cubic yards of material, running range of hills across the peninsula will be en- about 2 to 3 tons to the cubic yard, has been tirely by gravitation, the water passing through a short tunnel in the hills and then being dis moved, and at the time of my, visit about 150,000 cubic yards remained to be shifted.tributed to the town below. I uced not refer Outside the dock entrance a tempóraty dam to the scheme first proposed, which had to be was erected, and until the work had reached a abandoned owing to the rapid growth of the po certain stage, and the dam received some sup- pulation, but will proceed to note that the final port (ram the rear, it must have been somewhat scheme, which is now fast approaching com anxious work for the engineers engaged in its pletion, comprises a storage reservoir to im construction. Much of the work has been done pound 350,000,000 gallons of water, directly led from a catchment area of 460 acres two by contract under the direct supervision of the engineers, and one frequently saw the whole miles of catchwater channel at a gradient of t io 2,400, which drains a funher area of 40s family engaged-men, women, and children
acres, and is susceptible of being prolonged for each doing something to contribute to the total
three more miles, and thus 'add 600 acres lo employed. When completed and in full work the drainage area: three filterbeds each capable earnings. At present some 3,200 workmen are ing order there will probably be about 4,000 of filtering 500,000 gallons per day; a service employed in the yard. All the power used reservoir holding 2,000,000 gallons; the neces sory connecting pipes between storage reser. throughout the yard in the various shops will
reveu miles of additional mains to extend the such as rivetting, it will be hydraulis. To the eastward of the yard the company has taken present distribating system. The dani for the up further land, where quarters will be errected reservoir at the time of my visit had been bullt for a large number of the men employed. They up to a height of 80 ft., and was to be jo it, will thus be close at hand. The offices, which higher on completion, and 700 ft. along the were expected to be completed about April. np. It encloses a very picturesque inke-like May, and into which the present staff intended basis, irregular in formation and having head- to move immediately will be a fine block of lands and hays on a miniature scale, formed as buildings situated parallel to the dock, at a
the water found its level along the contour of convenient distance, and having the reclaimed the hills. This dam is situated, roughly, five wall on the sea front at a short distance on the miles from Kowloon Point. There is also a convenient spot. It constitutes an overflow or other side. The dock and shops have been subsidiary dam about 20 ft. high, built in a started as un-adjunct to the China Navigation
hvwash dam. A catchwater channel is a finn and repaired, and our steamers constructed. piece of work winding along the contour of Company, where its vessels can be docked The company possesses the considerable fleet the hills. The bottom of the catchwater has a of some 6e vessels, and you cannot be long small V-shaped channel to carry the dry-wea in any of the Treaty ports in China without ther flow and prevent loss by evaporation if seeing at least one vessel of the line. It has spread over a large service. It is estimated regular services also to Manila and Australia, that the catchwater will carry from in. to
in. of rain per hour from the drainage.. and runs a line from Shanghai to Yokohama
area. Overflows are provided in suitable places for use. if necessary. At the lower via ports. Besides providing facilities for its
flow channel connects with a small channel own steamers the yard will be in a position to dock, repair, or construct any vessels that it end of the catchwater, the dry-weather can secure. It is undoubtedly a big undertak
connecting by means of a pipe to the gauge ing, and is a notable increase to the industrial passing round the side of the reservais, and basin op the main supply pipe from the re- capacity of Hongkong.
servoir. This is called the clearwater channel, convey it direct to the filterbeds, as after heavy, intended to intercept water from the streams rains the water is the reservoir is for some days' 10 turbid as to be unfilterable? The service re- line of British territory, and has a capacity of servoir is situated just beyond the old boundary 1,000,000 gallons. The total cost of the whole work comes to about one million and a quarter of dollars, and it is expected the supply in a one million and a half gallons per day. year of tolerably severe drought will amount to
SHIPPING.
is largely in opium and the profit on subsidiary municipality would mean practically extinguish. should be provided for is through communica- reclaimed land, plus the old navn Acres of practically be electric, or for special work, voir, filterbeds and service reservoir; and about
The results recorded in the pages of the Government Gazette of officers suspended and dismissed for corruption would certainly seem to be a justification for the appointment of the Commission. My the considerable section of the community which is in unison with the work of the Commission, as far as it can be known, it is hoped that the result will be to bestow further powers on the Sanitary Board, and by making it suprente as far as administra sive powers are concerned, without creating & may be said that the report only gives and side ing the Sanitary Department. Of course it of the story, and that it is intended to drive the municipality peg home on it. It may be that Hongkong is better off under its present form of government for municipal affairs than il would be under a municipality. There is do evidence to show, however, that Hongkong 45 less able to look after its concerns in this way thao, say, hanghai or singapore, where they have.s free hand in such matters.
INDUSTRIES.
$6,430,000, against $7,056,000 for 1905. Under loss of life that had unfortunately occurred, apparently unlimited and insatiable' capacity new industry is a cigarette factory, for side of the harbour, and with the prospect of
In view of the keen interest. taken by the ex-Governor of Hongkong, Sir Matthew Nathan, in the construction of the line, with which his Excellency has so intimately associated him. self, it will be convenient to here record the rewrets felt at his departure. There is no doubt that they were very keep and heartfelt. From the moment that Sir Matthew arrived in the Colony he secured the respect,. and indeed affection, in many ways of all sections of the population. Capable, energetic, and with an for hard work he was leaving his mark on Hongkong and Kowloon, the railway will always remain as a memento af his too short administration, even though its completion will take place undet another rigime. He was a meo of whom Hongkong could be, and was, proud, to have at its head. The result was seen in the work of the Government offices, for under him the service was harmonibus, By the general community of all classes he was respected, and at the same time was po pular. Comparisons are always odious, bur the remark was too frequently made to me to be lightly passed over that the great change felt throughout the colony under his governor ship contrasted signally with the position ex perienced under his predecessor. Hongkong loks forward to another good governor, a man who has already carved a name for himself, but
In the matter of industries Hongkong con- tinues to make progress. Amongst recent creations are a couple of breweries and a flour mill. The latter is situated in Junk Bay, and its future is spoken of very hopefully. Certain ly the field exists for its product, and if it is properly ran it should prove successful. Great
Closely allied to the matter of docking comes hopes are also entertained regarding the pro- spects of the iron mine situated in the new territory beyond Kowloon. A company has the question of whart accommodation. Hong been formed to work it, and very promising. kong had long since to increase its storing faci. veports are issued which should be tested ere lities across the harbour on the Kowloon side. months have parted. A further propos Shipping seems to have taken regularly to that ed
has assumed greater proportions. More accom. which the land has been acquired, and the the railway being completed in a few years, it buildings are to be immediately erected at Kowlooo. This enterprise is being undertaken modation has been provided and more is con by El Oriente Tobacco Company, of Manila. templated. The Blue Funnel Company indeed I did not learn what class of tobacco it was has acquired an excellent site not far from the proposed to use, but, if successful, it is likely to railway terminus, where an extensive range of have imitators in Hongkong. Presumably godowns is now in rourse of construction. A climatic conditions are considered favourable good deal of reclamation is constantly in pro- for such an enterprise. Of the old indus-gress on the Kowloon side, and godowes or "tries that were carried-op-when-was storage accommodation will doubtless ba much of the new ground, last in the Colony seven years ago, may provided on
of ground to be reclaimed, it briefly mention that there are two sugar re- By the way, when the Government gives stipulates whence the spoil is to be obtained. fineries; that the cement works are so active leases that the capital is being doubled and the
the Kowloon peninsula is selected, and' is capacity of turning out Portland cement greatly One of the many low hills which abound on increased; that there is a rope factory that a considerable small steamer boat-building in removal makes further available sites for roads or buildings. This is done naturally, un dustry exists in the colony; that the cotton
Governmeal. The whole of the Kowloon dis der the circumstances, at a cheap cost to the
the busiest in the world, Viswing their increase would seem to be greatly augmented. numbers accidents may be said to be remark- advent of the railway its prospects of furthering about on its waters, and it in this way one At its back lies the new territory which is also
It is time that this letter drew to a close, bot shipping certainly needs one remark. Hoog
London and to be the greatest shipping port kong claims to have exceeded the fi, stes of in the world. London refuses to admit the claim. certain that its figures, are of a commanding Whether Hongkong does or does not lead, it is nature. The attendant satellite of the liner, or coaster, the steam launch is everywhere extra has no less than 300 launches constantly fit- ordinarily in evidence. Hongkong harbour
has been achieved in the interval requires to be seen to be grasped in all the reality of the prescut con ditions. The development is marvellous, and it will certainly continue despite occasional sets back. A few landmarks remain and go on from strength to strength, but the general face of things has been greatly transformed. It is withal a bandsome place. The banks, the new blocks of offices on the reclaimed Praya ground, the new Law Courts and Post Office now under construction, and the dwelling houses, of which many may with justice be described as palatial, It will perhaps be convenient to first look, at the financial condition. This is in general sound enough, though the revenue for the current year shows an estimate of six lakhs of dollars less than the estimate for 1906. The reduction coin. It is perhaps useful that opium has What 1 given a sort of warning decrease. have already written respecting the Straks Settlementsupplies equallyto tongkang, China is believed to be moving towards reductions and extinction of opium.smoking amongst Chinese. The British Government at home bashly promised to assist in reducing and extinguish ing the growth of the poppy in India, presume ably on the assumption that God helps the man who helps himself and that if the Chin ese will themselves honestly move in the mat- ter, we will assist her. It may be taken for certain that no British Government, would sanction the continuance of the farms in British Colonies when China and India had ceased to grow the poppy; and assuredly no Liberal or Radical Government would do so. China may, or may not, be honest in her en- deavours to stamp out opium smoking, as we shall know in due time, but the possible danger threatening so considerable a source of revenue to Hongkong is one that should not be over looked. Fresh sources of revenue should be sought for and marked down in due time. The estimates for 1907 show revenue at, rough ly, six millions and a half of dollars; a re duction of nearly $1,000,000 on the estimates for 1905; whilst expenditure is set down at these circumstances nothing very special is attempted beyond continuing the consider .able expenditure on waterworks already sanç- tioned and in progress. Though the figures are somewhat down for the current year the Colony's finances may be generally said to be in good feltie, whilst its public debt only amounts to roughly £1,500,000. This total includes the money for the Kowloon railway, and the sum loaded to the Viceroy Chang Commercially did not find matters-very. Chih-tung for the re-purchase of the American bright in the Colony, though the concensus of concession for the Hankow-Canton railway. opinion was that the worst phases had been Though the revenue is down, and there are no passed through. The rise in exchange had averflowing funde, I must say that I sympathise been against both importer and exporter. The with the civil servants of the colony is the mat. former suffered because goods could be laid ter of sterling pay
and the rate of exchange. down cheaper by later purchasers, whilst the It is true that a few years ago, when exchange latter was not able to offer so many dollars for It is difficult to had to all seeming had the bottom knocked produce is with a lower rate. clead out of it, a petition for sterling pay was say that Hongkong should go on a fixed ex- favourably received and the rates in sterling change, which it could do, but fears to attempt, it will keep the memory of Sir Matthew Na-spinning factory continues to work fairly satis whilst China, on which it is dependent, prefer than green for Jong time. He has left hisfactorily; that kerosene oil godowns form a fixed.accordingly. Now the civil servant is
mark in every direction, and after the railway feature; the Shell Company installation at Tai-trict has greatly progressed, and with the the other way through, rise in exchange, and, to abide by the changes of the white metal. bit as hard as he was before by the low rate: The fluctuations of Chinese subsidiary coinage the position of the Volunteer force perhaps kok-trus, and the Royal Dutch at Causeway but for different reasons. I need not perhaps have also militated against good business. stands out most conspicuously though in many Bay have installations and the Standard Oil
possess unrivalled steamer communication labour the whole matter, but the conclusion These coins in which the native largely does other ways his unflagging industry will not be Company has followed suit on Kowloon tetri
tory; and that, generally speaking, all these opening out and developing all the time. The ably few. Hongkong may be truly said to industries seem in a tolerably flourishing state, road right through the district to Tairo, a with almost every part of the world. There think most reasonable people would come to his business have been at a varying discount, readily forgotten..
are the mail lines for Europe, America, is that a certain proportion of the pay of each amounting at times to as much as 92 per ceel.
There remains one of Hongkong's greatest and distance of 18 miles, will greatly assist in. Bolder of office should be made in sterling Though business has been laad in 1906 for
oldest industries, that of the docking, repairing, development, and one may already see a fair India, and Australia. The main lines of big amount of traffic passing along it. Villagers shipping are certainly cause of remark; bot and the rest in local currency. What the these and other reasons, and was bad in 1955.
and building of ships and vessels of all classes there is some gratification in the knowledge proportions should be it is not easy to de
The China Navigation Company with its sixty termine off hand, but as the bulk of his that from the experience thus gained the
anddimensions. The Hongkong and Whampoa and cattlemen beyond the British territory also equally so is the immense ficet of coasters. expenditure is in local currency, possibly 7 per system of trading has been put on a sounder
Dock Company, with its comparatively small seem to appreciate it and use it extensively is apparently now in good working order, and
China Merchants, several Japanese coasting cent, in local currency and 30 per cent..in ster-basis that has been the custom hitherio. This
capital of $203,coo, continues to keep abreast going to or from Hongkong. The whole district vessels, the Indo-China with a large fleet, the lines, the Douglas Company, the China and ling would be acar the mark. A small inquiry should give hopes of less risky business in the
of the times. Since last seeing its Kowloon commission could very readily ascertain what immediate future. How long this will prevail,
establishment in Hunghom Bay, the company is effectively policed and administered. There would be fair proportions to take, provided the or the bad system of long credits again be
has erected a fine, new machine shop and in- is room, of course, for the expenditure of money Manila Company, and others keep up constant general principle was conceded and the basis comes prevalent, une cannot say. To gain an
stalled electric drive and many new tools, motor on public works, mainly in the direction of communication with all the posts of Chiny, cranes, and other appliances. Hydraulic power roads that would open up further sites for the Japan, Formoss, the Philippines, Siam, Indo- of salaries settled accordingly. The Secretary advantage over a competitor some one firm
is also used for rivetting, flinging, and bending, cultivation of vegetables and garden pradace, China, and Horses. In the arrbour, a British stance, vacant, whilst the firm has moved to a
for which there seems to be always a harbour it may be noted, the British flag is still of State has so far refused to adjust the matter, and then another may break away from the
farge building on the frost. On the firm's besides operating the capsians at the docks his main argument being that: "In the matter. healthier and sounder conditions now es
portion of the extended Praya line the new and some of the cranes. A power-house for the ready market in Hongkong. The abund fargely in evidence; it is not swamped by the of remittance to this country the Government tablished. Whether the worst is past or not
Past Office is being slowly erected at the angle electric drives and anmber for hydraulic power ance of good clean-looking vegetables, foreign ensigns that are welcomed and given one cannot say, but the casual visitor would servants in question are no longer affected by
of the Praya and Peddar-street. It is a con- supplies almost all requiremets. The premises
one has to look around for the red ensign; in the rate of exchange, and a reduction in the scarcely think that matters were so very had dollar value of imported articles must presum to judge by the general activity and bustle of renient site wish Feddie's Wharf just in front fortunately escaped with only little damage is remarkable, though one hardly like equal rights with it. In Singapore at times the place. It forces itself on your attention This bas tipfortunately been renamed Elake from the typhoon, but this catastrophe neces inquire into the conditions under which they Hongkong it seems always in evidence. Even were grown. Perhaps a development of the the Japanese faz, numerous as its entries now ably be only a matter of time if exchange con
Pier. An historic name like l'eddar's Wharf sitated a good deal of repair work to all sorts of
cattle trade might be made, for the demand
are, does not seem so greatly in evidenco afloat tinues to rule high. In my opinion the scale of whatever portion of the colony you may tap. pay of Government servants in Hongkong pen to be 10. The number of banks has also should not be allowed to disappear in this way, craft. The French destroyer Fronde, for in.
be profitable, and at the same time provide
The two great factors of Hongkong's success.... compares favourably with that obtaining in considerably increased, and one must imagine If it is necessary that there should be a Blake stance, was completing her outfit after having from Manila seems to be constant. I would as Japanese subjects undoubtedly are on land.
been suck and damaged. In the bay were Pier, and the necessity is apparent to only a most other parts of the Empire. The size of that they have not entirely started to live o
some new stern-wheelers in'ended for Hai considerable freights for steamers on
remain as they always have been. They are one's family and the home educational bills their brethren who were there before them. few Chinese, the name might be bestowed on
phong, which had ro'ently been completed. As Hongkong Manila ruo. One could expatiate the flag that betokers the sovereignty and the
good deal on the glories and possibilities of
freedom of commerce it implies, plus its geo. largely influence opinion on the first statement, There are now, I believe, no fewer than eleven the Statue Pier near by, and leave the came
the now territory. It is being rapidly converted graphical position at the door of a great Com but practical experience shows that the dollar in the colony. It is not so yery many years with all its associations to pertain to the wharf regards the docks, the largest, which was leng price of imported articles no means moves ago when the fingers of one hand would have at the foot of. Peddar-street. It has became thened to 556ft. a few years ago, is to be further
busy corner of the British Empire,
grow vaster with its gradual opening. I canner at rapidly as do exchangs values. The real sufficed to tally all in the place. They all time-honoured, and without very strong reasons extended by rafft. The width at the entrance from the erstwhile fabled abode of dragons to a neat, where a vast trade inay be done, and crux of the position, and the main expenditure seem fairly busy, and the Hongkong and should not be allowed to fall out. It is pro: 75. The company bas establishments on
lesser.scale at Aberdeen, at the back of Hong-
THE NEW WATERWORKS.
refrain in conclosion from repeating what 1 wrote on the last occasion of my visit. The of civil servants, as with all foreign residents, Shanghai Blank evidently feels the pressure of hably better known to the launch laodahs and
Hongkong revenues at the present time are
possession of Hongkong is in a privileges is, however, the local cost of living. When the current accounts, for it is increasing its counter sampan fraternity by its old name. The men-kong Island, and at Samshulpo. Hitherto the dollar-was low, wages, rents and bazaur prices spice, sa that it will run the whole length of tinn of Peddar-street makes one wonder why company-owalag all the docks either at Kow went up, and they have shown little tendency to the long hall that goes front-to-back of the the alignment was-not-continued straight to joos or on Hongkong Island-has had virtually being somewhat heavily drawn upon to provide but it in likewise a great responsibility.
a monopoly of the business, though it has to that very secessary commoditya plentiful outpost on the borders of a great Empire, which return to, shall I say normal, as a result of building. I have noted the rise in exchange as the Fraya. The link, it is true, brings the
meet competition from Japan, Shanghai, and supply of pure water. Large works are being has not yet achieved its propar position foot of the street at right angles to the higher exchange. The bulk of expenditure is operating generally against importers. A T.T. in such things. The truth is that with a low rate of 35. 31d. on Londen also had another Praya, but seeing that all the streets are not Singapore. The withdrawal of all the large carried out both at Hongkong and Kowlaan.world's trade; is a precious inheritance handed thus uniformly set, it is a pity this was not ships of the British daval force has shorn it of Da the Hongkong side the capacity of the to each generation for its own benefit and some of its work, and it is threatened with the Tytam Reservoir is being more than doubled profit, and to conserve and develop for those exchange and dollar pay, the recipient, whether effect inasmuch as some people seized the civil servant or mercantile, or bank employé, opportunity of selling out their bares and continued straight, and the clock tower left to
and a further of wateɛ- This, like the
storage obtained for some who follow, is hit hardijl be bas home remittances to make, stocks and remiuing the money on to a gold plumb the street at the inp. The Duke of competition are long of the Quarry Bay 1. With sterling pay, and consequently fewer basis. This had the natural effect of depress. Connaught's statue is now set up on Con tablishment in course of erection and com- 200,000,00
pletion by Mean. Butterfield and Swite previous Tytam sapply, is pumped up to the dollars at the high rate, your local expenses in ing the local share makel. A favourable in naught road at the foot of Peddar-street facing po as yet impossible to say what the conduit level which goes through a short Hongkong hit you, becauss though you may dication, on the other hand, was the compara. the wharf and harbour. It had been reposing have lower dollars to disburse for home remittive case sad smallness of demand for money in a matshed near the new Law Courts, but was effect of this competition may be but tunnel in the hills and is distributed by grasin.Tur three German officers of this slegmer almost at sea level and would be available, in ship's steward in charge for theft, and who later Lances you have also fewer for the current at China New Year. It is tene the Chinese hurriedly disinterred just print to the Duke's vinging the figures of tonnage that Hong tion to Victoria. The pumping station is regrass, who only a few days ago gave the case the much large scheme the in were summoned for assaulting the man, were monthly expenses, the more serious item of bad fewer commitments; in other words; were recent visit, Hongkong seems to be very well kong is credited with, it would
Goe way or another, unless your doing leas business, and either could not, or off in the matter of statues. A recent notable that there should be work adough for both pay is large enough to cover either contin. would not, avail themselves of the ventures that addition is that of Sir Thes. Jackson, Bart, establishments. Certainly the Dock Company Contemplation is carried out. At present convicted at the Police Court last Saturday. It gency, you are sure to be hit. The remedy came before them, Money was more pleatiful which faces, the Hongkong and Shanghai enters the areas with a favourably moderate the water hows from the reservoir by will be remembered that the steward was ac... seems to me, for employés, whether civil ser. at the New Year than usual, add failures were Bank, over whose destinies he presided for so capitalisation and with plant and works written gravitation to the pumping station and is cused of stealing a brass anchor paper weight were found after a search in the storeroom, of yants or assistants in banks, firms, or other few; but though the position was thus clearer, many years. It is erected on the reclaimed down to a low figure, but the orng of Quarry thence pumped to the conduit level. The from the engineer's cabin. When the things employment, is a combination of partly sterl there was less business doing. Property, also, Praya land that pertained in the bank, Bay are not a firm to be daunted and they are suggested further scheme is to enclose a con- Ing and partly local currency, it is to be hoped which had been largely invested in by Chinese, generously kept as open space for the benefit credited, probably quite correctly, with ample siderable area at the head of Tylam Bay, and which the steward had charge, he was' bauled and ses bod would be enclosed, the retaining to the Water Police Station, from where be that the Secretary of Blata may be induced io had likewhas fallen in value, and as it was of the public. Flanking this land on the other funds and a "defermination to see anything for the purpose, a certalo quantity of foreshore to the deck and arguelt. Then he was takeb wall being really in the sos. The very con had to be sent to hospital. Mr. Hazeland dis look at the matter in this light. Whilst on generally mortgaged at bigh rates, and not side of the road and on the seaward side of through that they put their bauds to. maiters pertaining to the Government and of always occupied, it was either unprofitable or the City Hall is the handsome puilding that THE QUARRY BAY WORES. considerable interest to the foreige population, had to be realised in the absence of further will do duty, when completed, as the badly it will certainly fill anyone with admiration siderable storage capacity of about 1,200,000.00 charged the steward and fued the officers Sha
Wanied new Law Counts. This was the pito | to see what has been croited at Quany Bay, gallone would that be provided for, and with i wach. 4 máy note that it was more than once remark-
the two.
cover.
BUILDINGS AND MATERIAL CHANGES. The considerable area of new ground created as the result of the Praya extension has now, heeo practically built over, only one or two lels still remaining vacant. If the big blocks are sadly wanting in uniformity of style and co- four, when seen from the harbour, they are individually fine blocks of office buildings. They are all occupied, and, indeed, everyone seems to have been playing at the game of general past, in so far as location of offices is concemed. Jardine's old offices are, for in
seem
fruit, and
even
flowers
Hongkong
the
the