It is now proposed to have Head of Interpreters - Interpreter Eitel, $2400; Ball $2400 (rising); Assist Interpreter - Littong Mi - $1800; Bengali Interpreter Bean - $300; Chinese Clerk - Chan Tai Keung $1200.
Total $6,800 per annum: this is really a very good salary for him; it should be pointed out too that if required, he must be able to act as Chinese Secretary. (The Governor still hankers after keeping him in that capacity).
This represents an increase of $3,540 on the former Establishment. I do not think this increase is too much to secure a good staff of interpreters, but would suggest the following modification to Sir J. Hennessy's Scheme:
1. Dr. Eitel draws $2400 as Inspector of Schools: I do not see why he should draw another $2400 as head of the Interpreters: $1800 would be sufficient: he would then draw an amalgamated salary of $4200.
2. Mr. Ball was a master in the Central School on $1440; he was made Assistant Interpreter in 1879 on $1800; if that sum is now increased to $2400, i.e., by $600 p.a., he will be handsomely treated, and there will be no need at present to give promise of a large subsequent increment as suggested by the Governor.
3. $1800 for Assistant Interpreter seems a proper amount.