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16. In respect of the larger public works and undertakings in which the Government has been engaged during the past twelve months. I may mention that, in spite of an unprecedentedly sickly season among the workmen at Tytam, good progress has been made in the construction of the new water-works, and that partial relief may be expected from the subsidiary supplies in connexion with these works, in the event of a drought occurring during next summer. The erection of Victoria College also progresses satisfactorily, and the new building will, I trust, be ready for occupation early in 1888. New Police buildings have been commenced both at Kennedy Town and at Mount Gough for the protection of the residents in those localities, and proposals will be duly submitted to you for the construction of Police Stations near Quarry Bay and at Aberdeen. Arrangements are also in course of completion for beginning the erection of the proposed new Central Market Building during the coming year.

17. In conclusion I am confident that our labours during the present session, probably the last at which I shall have the honour of co-operating with you, will be marked by the same zeal for the welfare of the Colony that has always been manifested by the Members of this Council in past years, and that the measures to be submitted to you will receive at your hands that careful and attentive consi- deration which has always characterized the proceedings of this Council.