CO129-409 - Governor Sir May - 1914 [1-3] — Page 424

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granted allowances. They have done so presumably for two reasons:-

(a). Because they wish to live in a certain locality

with no risk of being disturbed.

(b). Because they have calculated, probably correctly,

that the interest on the cums expended on their houses is less than the sum they would have to pay

in rent.

The house allowances are being given temporarily until quarters are available to compensate to some extent for the very high rents which have to be paid in Hongkong.

4.

The foresight shown by the memorialists in building houses for themselves has enabled them to escape payment of rent, and they will be further rewarded later on by having valuable properties to dispose of, if they so wish, when they finally leave the Colony.

I have the honour to be,

sir.

Your most obedient,

humble servant,

Governor,uc..