7
509
12. I may perhaps point out that a large economy
will accrue to the W.D. by the early completion of the
approved programme in the saving in hired buildings.
With the proposed increase to the Garrison it will be
absolutely necessary to incur a considerable fresh
expenditure under this head, if the new buildings are
not vigourously pushed on with so as to be ready in
time. Even as things stand at this moment the local
expenditure in hired buildings and lodging list is
£
heavy. It amounted to 7396 for the year ending 31st
August 1897. I submit that we ought to make every
effort to diminish this amount.
13. I am most anxious to push on with the Kowloon
Barracks and finish them off next year, with the
Asiatic Hospital (which as was justly remarked in
paragraph 4 of W.0.letter 9th June 1897 Hong Kong 24/10533/97 is practically part of these Barracks)
They have now been a long time in hand. We cannot re-
move Contractors plant and temporary buildings, and
clear up the ground till the remaining items are
finished. It will I think be discreditable to the W.D.
to let all this stand over for another year, if it
can possibly be avoided.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
(sd) H.Elsdale
Colonel on the Staff,
for G.0.0.the Troops in China (absent on leave,