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THE HONGKONG GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, 6TH JUNE, 1885.

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tively small number of the population of these Islands, millions of whom may be expected to view and profit by the evidence which the Exhibition of 1886 will afford of the marvellous progress made by their fellow-countrymen beyond the seas.

I also trust that this gathering may serve even a higher purpose, and be the means not only of giving a stimulus to commercial interests and intercourse, but of strengthening that Bond of Union between Her Majesty's subjects in all parts of the Empire, the growth and unanifestation of which are most sincerely appreciated by us all.

Whilst Her Majesty's Government have given their hearty approval to the objects for which the Commission has been appointed, they have not so far found it desirable to make any definite grant towards it. The Commission have, therefore, to rely entirely upon the public support of the great purposes which the Exhibition is intended to promote; and on the attractive form which it will be the endeavour of all concerned to give to it.

I cannot doubt but that, under such conditions, should no untoward events occur, the project will be more than self-sustaining.

At the same time, it has been thought prudent not to dispense with the usual provision of a Guarantee Fund, though I trust no circumstances may arise rendering it necessary to make any call on the guarantors. To this Fund the Indian and Colonial Governments have made liberal contribu- tions, amounting to £51,000.

I have also to announce with much gratification that the most cordial and generous response has already been made by Corporations, Firms and individuals in the United Kingdom to an invitation to participate in this Guarantee. Although no formal or public appeal has yet been made, and the number invited to contribute to it has so far been limited, the list of subscribers not only embraces those wh se interests may be supposed to be specially affected by the Exhibition, but comprehends every class of the community. Though but recently commenced, these further subscriptions already amount to £77,600, making a total Guarantee Fund of £128,600 to the present date.

I feel sure that you will unite with me in the expression of cordial thanks to those who have so promptly and liberally come forward to our assistance. It is a gratifying proof of the interest which exists among all classes at Home and in the outlying countries of the Empire, an l of the desire felt by them to embrace every occasion to promote the common advancement and prosperity of the United Kingdom and its Colonies and Dependencies.

Considering the inconvenience which would have resulted to the Members of the Commission had they been summoned to meet at an earlier date, and in view of the immediate assembling of the various Colonial Legislatures, whose co-operation had to be obtained. I dee ned it necessary, in order that full time might be given for the preparation of contributions, to take certain preliminary steps, which I trust will meet with your approval.

I have accordingly to announce, that arrangements have been made by which the Buildings and Grounds at South Kensington, where the Fisheries and Health Exhibitions were recently held, have been placed at the disposal of this Commission, on fair terms, and the Buildings can be made available for our purposes at a moderate outlay.

I therefore caused plans of these Grounds and Buildings to be prepared showing the space which the Commission could assign to India and to the various Colonies, and the arrangements which were deemed most convenient. These were communicated to the Government of India, to the High Com- missioner for the Dominion of Canada, to the various Agent Genera: of the Colonice, and, through the Colonial Office, to the Crown and other Colonies, an I have met with their approval. Similar commu- nications have been made through the Secretary of State for the Colonies direct to the various Govern- ments, and to the Secretary of State for India with like results.

In the despatch which contained this information, I also stated that it was considered advisable that, in place of any awards being granted by Juries, as has been the case in previous Exhibitions, Commemorative Medals only should be given to each exhibitor. The object in suggesting this change. was, that as some Colonies, from their age and circumstances, were more advanced than others, those in their infancy should not be placed at an undue disadvantage in an Exhibition from which all thoughts of trade rivalry should be excluded.

I am pleased to say that answers have been received which show that the suggestions made on this and other matters have been favourably accepted; and to inform you that the project of holding the Exhibition has been everywhere received with the utmost cordiality.

I trust that these preliminary arrangements may meet with your approval.

I have also to submit for your consideration the general method of administration which I recom- mend should be adopted.