556
Difficult to estimate. If we had to negotiate for the purchase of each junk the delay would render the scheme practically useless, but if a levy was made on all junks available at the time in the waters of the Colony, and the owners fairly paid for them at a later date, I think that, with a proper staff employed and the supply of stone forthcoming, the scheme could be carried out in 10 to 14 days; working, of course, if necessary, day and night.
(Signed) R. Murray Rumsey, Retd. Commr, R. N.
Hongkong, 22nd April, 1890.
Harbour Master.