4.
Your Lordship will observe that the estimated Revenue for this and next year is respectively $849,010.00 and $844,281.00, and that, therefore, the estimated decrease is $4,729 only, which is very considerably less than the sum received from unusual sources in this and previous years, as already explained.
I may briefly mention that the Revenue returns exhibit a marked improvement under the heads of Stamp Duty, Postage, Emigration Fees, etc., and as these form especially the legitimate sources of revenue, the conclusion may reasonably be drawn as to the flourishing condition of the Colony.
6.
It will, however, be noticed that the Leased Lands will produce less than at present, owing to $41,600 being lost to the great resumption of Lots consequent on the failure of Mr. Sharp to pay the Crown Rent thereon. In connection with this, also, has to be calculated the reduction of rent on the Kowloon Lots, which was ordered by my Predecessor to prevent the Lease holders from throwing up their purchases.
7.
To turn now to the Expenditure, and in fact to the Ordinance now transmitted, I have to report that, with the exception of the Police, there are not a few of the Departments...