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Scheme is a summary. The number of carts (forty-six) allotted to the infantry appears large.
15. The plans of all intended works should be kept by the Commanding Royal Engineer ready for issue to the officers who will superintend the working parties. In addition to the Tables on pp. 36-43 of the Scheme, a further Table is required showing the stock of tools in store and the numbers required. It is presumed that the native labourers supply their own pioches and baskets. The work necessary to construct huts for the outposts should also be considered. The supply of water to the different posts and positions should be explained in the Royal Engineer portion of the Scheme.
16. With regard to small-arm ammunition, the number of rounds per man to be issued to the troops and the number to be held in reserve (includ- ing Martini-Henry carbine ammunition for the artillery) should be laid down.
17. More detail is required in regard to the medical arrangements. The Scheme should state the existing accommodation and what will be required on mobilization, the position of additional hospitals, equipment for extra beds and whence to be obtained, and the ambulance arrangements. The distribution of the medical staff and civilian doctors, if any, should be given. Much of this information can be given in Tables. Dressing-stations should be selected near the defensive positions, those in the forts being too far off and too difficult of access. It may then be possible to dispense with the section of field hospital. The provision of hospital attendants should also be considered.
18. By drawing up Tables, showing the medical comforts required and those available, deficiencies will be ascertained, and the means for supplying them can then be considered. This remark applies also to the medical and surgical equipment required.
19. As Port Louis is the only town liable to bombardment, and as this, after all, is not probable, it appears possible that a smaller provision for the wounded among the civil population than is contemplated in the Scheme will suffice.
20. Finally, the Colonial Defence Committee desire to express their appreciation of the assistance so cordially and readily afforded by his Excellency the Governor to the military authorities. They venture to hope that his Excellency may find it within his power to continue his valuable co-operation towards the completion of the other roads and communications still required to render the heights accessible, and the negotiations for land required in connection with the strengthening of the land positions. (Signed) W. PEACOCKE, Secretary,
November 15, 1893.
Colonial Defence Committee.
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PRINTED AT THE FOREIGN OFFICE ET T. HARRISON,—17/11/93.
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