CO129-334 - Governor Nathan - 1906 [5-7] — Page 432

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