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A company drilling only with 15 Frs. and the other with Maxims, this latter course would, I consider, give great dissatisfaction now that all have drilled and fired with the 15 Frs. in which they take a keen interest.
If this could be finally decided quickly there would be greater keenness and a higher state of efficiency, the Corps would become more popular than it has been for many years and the numbers should increase. The uncertainty at present existing as to the future organization prevents new men joining and gives great dissatisfaction to all ranks and owing to the fact that the correspondence is confidential I have been unable to give them any information on the subject. If the Colonial Defence Committee decide on this organization, I could then, if they so wish, find out for certain from the members of the Corps themselves whether they would prefer to have one Company allotted to 15 Frs. and the other to Maxims - but I consider that this matter should be decided in the Colony and not again be referred home as these delays have already done considerable harm.
I would point out that I am very glad to withdraw my previous recommendation as to drills with fixed armament owing to the fact that the Military Authorities have allotted moveable armament and Maxims to the Corps on mobilization, this meets with the approval of the new C. in C., Kent, and will be more suitable for and popular with the Volunteers whereas long as the Military Authorities required Garrison Artillerymen in the forts I proposed that the volunteers should assist to the best of their power in spite of the probability of the Corps becoming less popular as stated by me in previous correspondence.
I have etc.,
(sd.) C. G. Pritchard,
Major,
Commanding Hongkong Volunteer Corps.