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prove the recommendation of His Excellency the Governor that it be granted.
At the same time I am to submit whether the price suggested viz: $4,000 Fine and $400 annual ground rent may not at least be considerably reduced, and for the fol- lowing reasons:-
(1)
The acknowledged necessity for such a Home as
it is proposed to erect, a necessity which the probable great increase of Her Majesty's Sea and Land Forces on the China Station will make still more urgent.
(2) The Home is in commemoration of the 60th year of the Reign of Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen, and will be held on such trusts as will secure it for the un- reserved use of all members of Her Majesty's Sea and Land Forces, irrespective of religious denomination.
(3) Any saving in the cost of the site will enable the Committee to make the Home itself proportionately more commodious and attractive.
(4) With the exception of a small site for the Naval and Military Church, no land has hitherto been granted to the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Hong Kong.
On all these grounds the Committee ventures to sub- mit its suggestion for the favourable consideration of
Mr. Secretary Chamberlain. At the same time, the Commit-
tee would accept the terms offered, rather than delay any further the establishment of a Home which is so urgently
needed, leaving it for the Secretary of State to consider
subsequently the question of the reduction of the prices.
I shall be happy to wait on the Secretary of State
to furnish any further information that may be required
before a final decision is taken.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
R. W. Allen: