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COPY.
432
Sir,
Head Quarters, China Command,
1917.
Hongkong, 23rd. May,
I have the honour to submit for Your Excellency's
information the Annual Report of the Hongkong Volunteer Corps and Hongkong Volunteer Reserve.
The Volunteers are well trained and in an efficient
condition.
2.
The Artillery Company has recently commenced a tour of duty at the Belchers Examination Battery and is thereby performing an important War Service.
3.
The Engineer Company has continued its valuable services in Searchlight duty during the past year, and its work will be a little less ardanus now that it has been reinforced
by Volunteers from other arms, including Reserves, who have given
much time and trouble to qualify themselves for this duty.
The Hongkong Volunteer Reserves have been well
4.
and carefully trained by Major Wakeman.
6.
At my Inspection of the Volunteers I noticed Beveral rifles in a neglected condition. I therefore arranged with Your Excellence to have the whole of the arms of both Corps inspected by an Ordnance Armourer. I have not yet received the official report but I understand it will be unsatisfactory. Strict attention to the care of arms will be urged on both Commandants.
6.
In conclusion both Corps are in an efficient condition and fit to take their part in the defence of the Colony.
I have c.. (Sd.) F. Ventris,
Major General, Commanding the China Command.
His Excellency
Sir F. H. May, K.C.M.G.,
Governor, &c.,
&C.,
Hongkong.