COPY
No. 387
Sir,
Public Works Office, Hongkong, 12th Jun, 1903
C.O. 45/34161 RECO AGE 18 MG C2
Adverting to C.O. Telegram of 27th February, 1903, I have the honour to forward you, for payment, by the Naval Authorities, Messrs. Palmer and Turner's Account, amounting to $500, for services rendered in connection with the resumption of Kowloon Marine Lot 35.
I have also to request permission to forward an account for my own services in connection with the above.
When Sharp's Buildings (Marine Lots 30 and 21) were resumed on behalf of the Naval Authorities in 1898, (C.O. Telegram of 6th August, 1897), I applied for remuneration of my services, as the work was not part of my ordinary duties, and the matter was referred to the Secretary of State, who decided that such work should be paid for by the Department concerned.
On that occasion I received £25. I may point out, however, that the sum involved in the present case is $919,000 as against $375,000 in the case of Sharp's Buildings, and I now hold the substantive appointment of Director of Public Works. For these reasons, I submit that I should be permitted to charge the same fee as Messrs. Palmer and Turner, to which my position fairly entitles me.
The Honourable
The Colonial Secretary.
I have etc.,
(sd.) W. Chatham, Director of Public Works.
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