CO129-278 - Governor Sir Robinson - 1897 [11-12] — Page 37

35 says that he had no departmental funds available with which to replace the instrument. Dr. Doberek blames Mr. Plummer for not impressing on Government the urgent necessity of replacing the instrument, which is one of the principal aids in forecasting typhoons. Mr. Figg informs us that he gave it as his opinion at the time that the anemometer should be at once replaced. Mr. Plummer does not appear to contend that an anemometer is not necessary. He seems to have shirked the responsibility of insisting on the purchase of a new one and to have left the question to stand over till the Director arrived in the Colony. In view of the fact that this anemometer appears essential to the proper observance of typhoons, and that, as it is, the Colony will be fortunate if it obtains a new instrument in time for the next typhoon season, it appears (apart from any other considerations) somewhat fortunate that Dr. Doberck should have curtailed his leave.

4. As regards B, Dr. Doberck states that he alludes to observations of the sun, moon, and planets, having for their object the accurate fixing of the longitude of Hong-Kong for time ball and consequently chronometer purposes. To this he attaches much importance. Mr. Plummer states that (a) Repairs to the transit roof rendered observations