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about the cheapest house in the Colony at which a lady
could live. Inquiries made by me have confirmed Mrs.
Bateman's statement and I do not think that any private
family could afford to take in a lodger for less than
$75 a month. It must, therefore, be admitted that the
salary suggested by me even with Exchange Compensation
(which would bring it up to $98 rising to $134 a month)
is inadequate.
4.
After consulting Mrs. Bateman and
making enquiries in other quarters I have come to the
conclusion that the necessary monthly expenditure of a
lady occupying the position in question would be mot less
than $130 a month. This sum is made up as follows.-
Board and lodging
Chair-hire
Clothes
890
10
18
cluding washing, fire
pocket-money
18
Petty expenses, in-
5.
Total $130
As provision must be made for the
voyage to England and back every six years, at least $144
a year must be put by in addition. An income therefore
of $142 is nothing more than adequate. At the present
rate of Exchange Compensation this will be secured by a
salary of $117 a month and this is therefore the lowest
salary that it is possible to give.
6.
Facts must be faced. I have not
exaggerated the cost of living in Hongkong. In fact my
estimate is $20 a month less than that of Mrs. Bateman,
and