Sessional_Paper_1887-1888 — Page 378

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8. We would add that we believe a sense of justice would induce the majority of Marine Lot-holders to approve of compensation to Wharf-owners being charged to the general cost of Reclamation, and under present arrangements it seems that Marine Lot-holders are the parties chiefly interested.

We are

9. There is another point we would bring to His Excellency's notice. given to understand that almost all the moorings now laid in the Harbour will have to be moved some 250 feet from South to North. The expense of this to indi- viduals will not be heavy, but the aggregate will amount to an appreciable sun, as the cost of shifting each mooring will average $200 to $250. Should not the ex- pense of this also be included in the general estimate of cost of the Reclamation?

We have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your obedient Servants,

THOS. ARNOLD,

Secretary,

Hongkong, Canton & Macao Steam-boat Company, Limited.

p.p. DOUGLAS LAPRAIK & Co..

T. E. DAVIES,

General Managers, Douglas S.S. Coy.. Ld.

BUTTERFIELD & SWIRE,

Agents, China Navigation Coy., Ld.

The Honourable F. STEWART, M.A., LL.D.,

Colonial Secretary.

No. 956.

(Colonial Secretary to Pier Owners.)

COLONIAL SECRETARY'S OFFICE,

HONGKONG, 13th July, 1888.

GENTLEMEN,

With reference to your letter of the 5th instant, on the question of private wharves in connection with the proposed Praya Reclamation, I am directed by the Governor to inform you that your letter deserves, and will receive, His Excellency's careful consideration.

י

I am to add that in order to know what is involved in this question His Excellency would like to know the original cost and to have an estimate of the present value of your respective wharves, and also an estimate of the cost of building new ones.

THOS. ARNOLD, Esq.,

Secretary,

I have, &c.,

FREDERICK STEWART,

Colonial Secretary.

Hongkong, Canton & Macao Steam-boat Coy., Ld.

Messrs. DOUGLAS LAPRAIK & Co.,

General Managers,

Douglas Steam-ship Coy... Id.

Messrs. BUTTERFIELD & SWIRE,

Agents,

China Navigation Coy., Ld.