-14-
109
22nd April, 1911,
Marked "D".
I would here point out that the time allowed
under the Contract for the completion of the Super-
structure was 4 years and 5 months, and as previously
stated important matters of construction were with
Mr. Chatham for 2 years and 2 months, and that practic-
ally another year's delay ensued owing to the vagaries
of the Architects.
Yet despite the above delay, when the works
were left with me I practically completed such within
16 months and 1 week after contract date for completion,
and the building was occupied during May 1911.
I would also point out that when the works
were left in my hands some sixty (60) drawings were
necessary to complete the building.
Assuming for the moment that I was wrong and
that it was quite unnecessary for the Government to have
prepared the above drawings inorder to complete the work
I beg to ask why did not Mr. Chatham prevent me wasting
time:
he was fully aware that I was preparing them.
I submit, this is a question that naturally appears
necessary and needs for great explanation.
After completing the work, under most trying
conditions I considered that I was justly entitled to
some extra recognition.
I beg to attach copy of a letter addressed
to H.E. Sir Frederick Lugard dated the 22nd April, 1911,
this letter was not forwarded by Mr. Chatham (Altho'
I reminded him of such) to the Hongkong Government until