Sessional_Paper_1884-1885 — Page 158

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More recent events in China have, however, demonstrated the possibility of the attack of Hongkong by Vessels of War carrying guns and armour with which even the 9.2-inch gun would be hardly able to cope, and it has now been determined to employ a certain number of 10-inch B.L. guns of 27 tons.

This gun is capable of penetrating nearly 18 inches of iron at 3,000 yards; and, although still more powerful guns are now being constructed, it is considered that guns of this nature, which are the heaviest that can be worked by hand, are amply sufficient for the Defence of Hongkong, aided as that defence would be by mines and also by Torpedo-boats.

Were heavier guns than the 10-inch of 27 tons employed, it must be borne in mind that hand power would no longer suffice for working them, and the difficulty of maintaining in working order at all times, at a foreign station, the machinery needed for the heaviest guns, which, if out of order, would render the guns useless and thus completely cripple the defence, has decided the Home Government not to attempt to mount heavier guns than these at Hongkong.

It will be seen from the above sketch of the history of the designs for the Defence of Hongkong that circumstances have compelled changes in the original proposals, and that each successive advance in the power of the Artillery, while throwing on the Imperial Government an increased charge for Armaments, has also in- creased the amount which will be necessary for constructing the works.

The exact increase in cost cannot at this moment be estimated precisely, but it will undoubtedly be considerably in excess of the amount which the Colony was asked to contribute at the time when the original scheme was under consideration. The enclosures which accompanied your letter are returned herewith as requested.

THE UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE,

I have, &c.,

(Signed),

HENRY BRAND.

Colonial Office.