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Q-Why could not the contractor look after them?
A—I don't think he could. I am afraid we would get into a lot of trouble.
Q-But are the stones not made by Chinese ?
A-Some of them are, but some come from home. Chinese don't work in marble here. If we employed a stone mason, he would keep the granite stones in order, no doubt, but some of the tomb-stones which come out from England, etc., are of very fine workmanship-flowers cut in wreaths, etc.
Q-As you are aware, the conditions of life in Hongkong are such that people go away and they have not the same opportunity of paying attention to tomb-stones as the people at home who live in practically the same place for a lifetime. It would be satisfactory to the public to know that the tombs of relations or friends were being properly attended to.
A—I see, when they get into a dilapidated condition, that they are attended to so far as cleaning is concerned.
Q-Can you tell us what extra expenditure would be necessary to keep them in a satisfactory condition?
A-I should think another $20 a month.
Q-Then the next part of your duties refers to the Public Recreation Ground. There is a custodian there under your orders?
A-Yes.
Q-There have been some new rules passed with regard to the ground and a new portion taken in just beyond the ground of the Hongkong Football Club. It has not been properly turfed yet, has it ?
A-No.
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-When is that to be done?
A-I could not tell you, Sir, as it does not come under maintenance. That is a Public Work Extraordinary.
Q-Do you find the present custodian work very satisfactorily?
A—He
A-He is not in good health, but, so far as he is able, he works very satisfactorily.
Q-Now we come to the Building Ordinance. That is also under you, of course?
A-Yes.
Q-How many Inspectors of Buildings have you to help you ?
A-Only one-Mr. CRISP.
Q-Do you consider one sufficient?
A-No.
Q-Of course you are aware that a great deal of public attention has been called to the inspection of buildings especially in view of the recent collapse in Cochrane Street ?
A-Yes.
Q-Are you aware that any steps have been taken to place matters on a more satisfactory footing ?
A-Yes, Mr. CHATHAM tells me that matters will be on a more satisfactory footing shortly.
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