owing to the increase in the Chinese Staff of the Hospital and the dispensation of the service of the Chinese Wardmaster lately pensioned after twenty years' service, which post it is not proposed to fill, these duties and responsibilities will be further increased under the New Scheme. I have therefore to propose that the salary of this Officer be raised to $70 per mensem and quarter, uniform and rations as at present. The present incumbent, Mr. Chapman, proved himself well fitted for the post; he acquired a knowledge of colloquial Chinese and given the greatest satisfaction in the performance of his duties. From the experience we have had of him, I am of opinion that no better man could be obtained.
I have pointed out the great troubles we have been through with this portion of the Hospital Staff in the past, and from experience gained, I think the recommendations I have given will put things on a proper basis for the future, and I hope my recommendations will receive the approval and sanction of His Excellency and the Home Authorities.
(Signed) Ph. B. C. Ayres, Colonial Surgeon.