16
17
505
staff from $43,000 to $75,000, was necessitated by considerable expenditure that had to be incurred in connection with the foundations. As regards the increase from $30,000 to $50,000 for the Epidemic Hospital Hulk, I am informed by the Harbour Master that his original estimate was for an obsolete vessel-of-war to be obtained from the Admiralty. But to procure such a vessel was not found practicable, and as no suitable hulk could be purchased here it was determined to build one at an estimated cost of $50,000. I may add that a contract for this purpose has been made, but it was not possible to enter into such an agreement for a less sum than $58,600.
With reference to the omission...