415
decree of $9,606 compared with that estimated for the current year.
The staff of the Colonial Secretary's office are no longer required for the Interpreters lately as they have been transferred to permanent appointments. The Expenditure on the Police is reduced by $6,000, and the Fire Brigade shows a decrease in its estimate, which is however only apparent.
The Vote for Contingencies properly placed under Services is now $4,800.
No exclusive of Establishments.
I have found it necessary to give my temporary sanction to a slight increase to the salaries of a few of the employés, as detailed in the Returns of Expenditure. It was found impossible for instance to obtain the service of Inspectors for less than $60 per month, and their pay therefore has been raised from $30 to $60. The same applies to the Wardmaster of the Victoria Hospital, who now receives $50 instead of $40, with an increment up to $60 per annum.
In the Magistracy the salary ($1200) for the Assistant Chinese Interpreter is a new item.