)
in place of half of the latter's salary paid to the local practitioner for the period in which he acted. For two months this would be × (13,500 plus 10,800) = $2,025.
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2.
The Puisne Judge to go to Weihaiwei when required, his place being taken by the Registrar of the Court or by the Police Magistrate who would receive half the Puisne Judge's salary in place of half his own which would go to the Officer carrying on the duties of the lower appointment. The cost of this for 2 months would be × (8,400 plus 6,720) = $1,260.
Neither arrangement would be possible at a time like the present when both the Chief Justice and Puisne Judge are absent on leave and the Attorney-General and Police Magistrate are acting for them, while a local practitioner is acting for the Attorney-General. I trust however that such a state of affairs will not recur.
5.
Of the two alternatives I much prefer the first, though it is the more expensive, as it weakens the staff less, not requiring any Officer to perform the duties of two offices. I cannot say that its adoption would cause no inconvenience but if the Government of Weihaiwei are prepared to bear the expense (which, if the Chief Justice were absent from this Colony for a period of two months in all would amount to $2,025 plus £100 fees plus actual expenses incurred by the Judge on behalf of Weihaiwei) and if you consider its adoption to the advantage of the service, I am prepared to introduce the legislation required to make the services of a Judge of the Supreme Court of Hongkong available in case of necessity at Weihaiwei.
6.
You may think it advisable before coming to a final decision in the matter to consult Sir William Goodman who proceeded on leave on the 27th instant and will be
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