Sessional_Paper_1887-1888 — Page 350

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As regards that part of this resolution which objects to windows I understand the Lot-owners would like an explanation as to what is particularly referred to, and I shall feel obliged if the Government will furnish me with a detailed explanation to lay before them.

Resolution 8.-For the purposes of giving effect to this Resolution I apprehend it would be necessary to make a detailed engineering survey of the entire sea-bed and Marine frontage, and perhaps the Government would not object to this.

The rest of the enclosures marked B, C, D, E, and F from European Lot- owners speak for themselves and their contents will no doubt receive the favourable consideration of the Government. As the questions raised in these letters will have to be answered, I will feel much obliged by your furnishing me with the necessary information for this purpose at the same time that you favour me with His Excel- lency's decision on the Resolutions of the Chinese Lot-owners.

I have the honour to be,

Sir.

Your most obedient Servant.

The Honourable F. STEWART, LL.D.,

Colonial Secretary.

C. P. CHATER.

Enclosure A.

Translation of

The Resolutions made by the principal Chinese owners of Marine Lots in Victoria, Hongkong, at a Meeting held in the On Tai Insurance Office on the 11th September, 1887.

Resolution 1.-That the Crown Rent of the land to be reclaimed shall bear the same rate as that of the existing Marine Lots and shall be apportioned according to the quantity of land to be reclaimed.

Resolution 2.-That there shall be no deposit on account of the costs of recla- mation. But the contractor shall be paid by instalments; and each Marine Lot- owner shall sign an agreement to contribute a proportionate part as and when any instalment becomes payable. Such proportionate parts to be fixed by the Surveyor General and paid by the Marine Lot-owners at one month's previous notice on the former's receipts.

Resolution 3.-That the proposed tramway road shall be of 75 feet wide but the other proposed new road of 50 feet only, the land being too valuable to be dedicated to the public more than is necessary.

Resolution 4.--That paragraphs B and C of condition 8 in the letter from the Acting Colonial Secretary dated the 11th August last relating to back-yard and window should be struck out.

Resolution 5.- -That the costs of the reclamation shall be estimated and the terms of the contract with the contractor settle by two or more surveyors to be appointed by the Marine Lot-owners. Such estimate and contract to be approved of by the Surveyor General and the works supervised by him.