2.)
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this man was stationed at Sheung Shui some five miles from
Tai Po.
3.
The collection of Crown Rent for 1905 was
due to commence on July 1st. but the greater part was col-
lected in the last three months of that year and in the
first three of this. The collection was on a new rent roll
and was more systematic and complete than any previously
undertaken.
4.
On the 19th. February, 1906, the Treasurer,
Mr. A. M. Thomson wrote to Mr. Orme that he had heard that
there was a possibility of some irregularity in Ip Wal
Lam's accounts and that he thought the matter serious. Mr.
Orme replying on the 20th. had no reason to believe that
the shroff, whom he had seen on that day, was out with his
accounts. On the 21st. he transferred Ip to Ping Shan
station but visiting that place on March 3rd. found him
absent without leave. On March 7th. he reported the Shroff
to the Treasurer as having probably left the Colony and as
having issued to villagers temporary receipts for Crown
Rent the money corresponding to which would probably not be
forthcoming. On thellth. Mr.Orme reported to the Colonial
Secretary that numerous sums for which Ip had given re-
ceipts had not been brought to account. A warrant was
issued, the Consul General at Canton was asked to obtain
the