Enclosure No.
in China Letter
W.L.2372/04.
No. 508/224 dated 4th May 1904.
Copy
"TAMAR" at Hong Kong,
2nd May 1904.
Sir,
(Rec 15 JUL 04)
I have the honour to inform you that in June 1903, after an exceptionally heavy rain storm, a mass of stone and debris was carried down the Albany Nullah eventually blocking it, causing it to overflow in the Naval Yard, and surroundings.
2. It was consequently necessary to clear away the debris immediately, to prevent further damage, and this my predecessor ordered to be done.
3. The question subsequently arose as to which department of the Government Service should bear the cost of the work, and, as both the Colonial Government and the War Department decline to admit any liability, the matter has now assumed a deadlock.
4. I have therefore the honour to submit copies of the whole of the correspondence which has passed and beg to request instructions as to the settlement of the question.
Vice Admiral
Sir Gerard H.U. Noel,
K.C.B., K.C.M.G. Commander in Chief,
CHINA.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
(Sgd) C.G. Dicken.
Commodore.