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steamers at Hong Kong. Some of these have found their way back and I don't think there will be any difficulty
of recruiting these for Railway work when the weather
improves.
11. I could put more men on now in the outlying
districts, if I could only house them. It will be
necessary to build much more substantial quarters for
the coolies engaged in the tunnel than I at first
thought of. It will not do to run the risk of having
the work disorganised every year as it was this year
when a typhoon comes.
12. I have been able to let a good contract for
the supply of stone lime, so I do not think that much
cement will be wanted except for the tunnel. The price
I am paying for cement is $4.20 per cask of 375 lbs. net
delivered alongside Railway Wharf. I don't think
cement could be got from London cheaper than this, however I am bringing the matter before Mr. A.J. Barry when
he arrives out here.
13. I have to acknowledge the receipt of your wire
"Ceetoore Rensvoren" meaning "Indent in hand am sending
Tip waggon fittings". I am putting the timber work in
hand at once, and also the contract for Jarrah wood sleepers.
14. I have let a contract for excavating the
gullet and I hope to push it on as quickly as possible.
15. I am in receipt of your letter No.20 dated
the 5th September and note your remarks as to keeping
down the staff.
The Kowloon Sub Division is worked entirely from my office, no clerks or cashiers are as yet appointed nor do I see any necessity as yet for doing so.
I