819
£157.
9.
It was not till 1882 or 1883 that Defence was talked about, and the Forts which it was proposed to construct have to this day never been constructed.
The Reserve has always been used as a Military Exercise ground and has been parted with piecemeal as the wants of the Colony developed (mind you for no consideration from the Colony whatever) the remainder being kept as a Reserve of Land in case of future needs.
10.
Circumstances have altered considerably within the last few years, I might even say within the last few months. With the acquisition of the New Territory, the Colony has ample room for expansion, and I foresee that before very long the Kowloon peninsula may contain at least half a million people pressing on both sides of the Reserve of land which the War Department now holds.
11.
For the maintenance of law and order this Reserve is the best position for the Troops, as it stands above and dominates the ground which is most desired by the Colonists viz flat ground adjacent to the shores of the harbour. It separates the