As I was contemplating the removal of the Cape d'Aguilar light to Waglan Island, if the Chinese Government would consent; and I must have done the whole thing themselves as the late d'Aguilar light is still down in the HR. list of Colonial buildings. I should not have supposed that both the Cape d'Aguilar and the Waglan lights were the latter quoted above. It is stated that the existing light on Waglan may be placed on the former; but it would no doubt be a costly affair to set up - it is a small island manned by a Signalman and Telegraph staff, with a clock, and it appears to absorb the energies of both.
(Chinese) There will probably be less disturbance to the Light Dues if its maintenance is on account of the Waglan light than there would otherwise be.
1. Refer to F.O. as a precedent for public surrenders; and draft to S.G. when the question arises, at the same time pointing out the necessity for keeping up both Cape d'Aguilar and Waglan, but saying that in any arrangement the latter must be maintained. (Should Consult 3d July und.). A.F. 11/8 C.W. 3.11.
As regards the lighthouse, I think this is a matter which the Board of Trade have the opportunity of examining. I would send their copy of the despatch, and by that means they will see the objection being proposed.
Write to F.O. as proposed, and add to the letter to the F.O. that if, as seems prima facie equitable, the Hong Kong Government is liable to pay for the Customs Buildings, the value of the buildings should be an item to be partially set off against whatever compensation may be claimed.
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