Hongkong, 12th June, 1901.
I have the honour to transmit for your consideration the enclosed copy of a letter from the Acting Director of Public Works, respecting the urgent necessity for increasing the Staff of his Department.
2. Having considered the demands upon the Public Works Department, I agree with Mr. Chatham that, in view of the rapid increase of the Colony, the proposed increase of Staff is necessary.
3. I accordingly submit Mr. Chatham's proposals for your approval and propose to embody them in the Estimates for 1902 unless I hear to the contrary from you by telegram.
4. I shall also be glad to learn by cable whether the appointment of Principal Land Surveyor proposed in my Despatch No. 167 of 30th April, 1901, can be included in the Estimates for 1902 which are now in hand.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient
Humble servant,
Henry Arthur Blake
Governor, &c.
THE RIGHT HONOURABLE
JOSEPH CHAMBERLAIN, M.P.,
&c., &c., &c.