in the
of service of whatever duration; instead of pensions, apparently on the belief that the Chinese preferred it. It further appears that upon the representations of successive Governors, successive Secretaries of State have sanctioned the practice. It is now contended that
the Chinese do not prefer it and are deterred by it from entering the public service. It is accordingly proposed to
grant pensions to Chinese officers on similar terms to those for European Officers. I see no objection to giving them pensions after 10 years service, instead of gratuities, if they
treat them on the same footing. I am not aware of any distinction in this respect between natives
and Europeans in other allowances. But I would not allow them the climate addition. It is said, how can you refuse them the climate addition, and allow it to Europeans? I would reply by
refusing it to Eurasians.
180
2. Dr Eitel adduces four examples of the alleged Chinese Grievance, viz., Ng A-tün, Cheung A-lau, Fan A-ki, and Fan A-wyng.
It appears that Cheung A-lau preferred gratuity, that Fan A-ki asked for "pension or bonus" but got bonus (he was not entitled to either if, as is stated, he resigned), and that Fan A-wyng preferred Gratuity. The case of Ng A-tün requires a little more notice. After 6 years' service he applied for and obtained 2 weeks leave on medical certificate, but Governor Sir R. Macdonnell ordered him to be discharged at the end of it, having ascertained from the Colonial Surgeon that he was suffering from pulmonary consumption.
Dec.