1891-05-20 — Page 6

THE Spanish cralser Reina Cristina, 3030 tons, Comr. Inglislas, arrived on the 15th Inst. from Manila, which she left on the 12th inst.

THE young man Pugh, who was found half poisoned at a hotel in Yokohama the other day, was sentenced to twelve days Imprisonment by Judge Hanner, on the 5th last, for attempting to commit suicide

THE HONGKONG TELEGRAPH, WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 1891.

Lord Knutsford requesting that the enhanced rates of Salaries be not paid, until they had the opportually of addressing him and of submitting to him their views on the subject.

The Unofficial Members are still without any. reply to their telegram to Lord Knutsford and without any intimation from the Government of the Colony, as to the course the Government propose to adopt with reference to the Salary question, and to their request for a reconsidera-

of the whole subject. They have now there

Twfine Norddeutscher Lloydaleamer Stuttgart, which arrived from Germany on the 4th Instfore the honor to request information on the having been temporarily, taken off the Adantic

following points. run, brings H.E. Hung, late Chinese Minister at

· Berlin, en route to Shanghai.

IN a recent police case in Calculta in which about a hundred Chinainen were charged with Essault, the complainants were at, a complete loss to identify the culprits, as they found that they all had faces to similar that no distinction could be made.

THE Russian steamer Nijni Novgorod arrived In Singapore on the 8th inst,, en route to Vladi- vostock, with 396 Russian emigrants, presumably to work on the Siberian railway. The Russian "transport Moskun, also from Odessa, arrived at Singapore the previous day, on her way to Vladivostock.

WE learn that five and a quaiter inches of rain fell in Swatow on the 15th inst, between 11 am. and p.m. This is the heaviest downpour yet registered on the Customs meteorological records of that part. "The British consular constable's garden wall was carried away by the foaming torrents and several Chinese houses were utterly wrecked,

THE "blue-funnel" steame: Polyphemus, Capt. Lee, arrived here on the 13th Inst. from Singapore, and reported having encountered a stiff gale off the Macclesfield Bank two days ago. Apparently it was quite stiff enough to qualify as a typhoon, as the barometer fell from 30 degrees to 29.60, and the vess-1 had to run before the wind, and eventually heave to, for about eight hours, during which time a life-boat was unshipped, and somet slight damage done.

AT the Magistracy this afternoon (ath last.) Mr. Wise heard further evidence in the case of Chan Ping and Li Asang, who are wanted by the Chinese authorities on the charges of robbery and murder committed in the Sha-chung village, Kwangtung province, on the 21st July, 1889. Chan Sau, farmer, said that about midnight on the day in question the two prisoners, together with sixteen others, broke into his house and stole clothing and jewellery, amounting in value to 1,100 taels. The burglars, after staying about до hour,

left the house, the first prisoner, and he went out, firing a revolver, and shot Chan Klin San to the chest, killing him on the spot. The matter was reported the following day to the mandarlo, but nothing else was heard of the prisoners till their arrest in Hongkong. He recognised the prisoners amongst a number of others yesterday afternoon in the Gaol. Chang Ahl, a folt, gave corroborative evidence. Inspector Stanton gave evidence of arrest and identification, and Wong Kwok Wong, Major of the Chinese Army, and mandarin of the village, said they, were subjects of the Chinese Empire. His Worship com- mitted the prisoners to gael for the usual period previous to their rendition.

Have any definite Instructions been received from the Secretary of State for the Colonies allowing or disallowing the increased rates of salaries for the present year?

Have any Instructions been received from the Secretary of State for the Colonies conse quent on the Unofficial Members' telegram of the 24th April ultimo ?-

meet the increased antarles, if sanctioned, Does the Government intend to suspend par until the Unofficial Members have been able to address the Secretary of State, and get his decision on their views?

"

We have perused, with very great care the Minute or Address published his Excellency the Governor In the local papers of the 30th ultimo and ret instant, and laid on the Council tahle on the 30th ultimo,

very rapidly, and are growing, but their growth checked by the is continually being certain age that people are getting accustomed to in wines not being always maintainable, and I think that this ought to be avoided. I should look upon this sort of stock-stock that has to be aged (and you really most age many things yourself now in order to ensure that they are what they purport to be) I should think that very good this sort of stock would be Investment for

part of the reserve fund, It might be kept in a separate building and be suxintained from year to year, în Increas ing quantities, if possible, as the growth of the business warranted.

Money

Day Is also required At present it for our London business. has been almost entirely occupied in dolog the work of our own firm. Hongkong supplies a great many of the branches, but Manila and Shanghai are supplied direct from London, and to some extent Hankow and Tientsin. In London we have the nucleus of a very efficient staff and a well trained staff, having a knowledge of the business we do in all parts of the world. We have a knowledge of the markets, and we can buy as well, probably better than, many other people can, but certainly as well as anybody else can, and it has always occurred to me that we might increase our London staff and do a very profitable export business from London to all parts of the world. That has been on the shelf a good many years. The last time when I They are still of opinion that the Colony cannot, for the reasons stated in the Amendment went home I took premises suitable for the to Mr. Whitehead's motion, moved on the eth purpose in Fenchurch Building, and there we ultimo by the Honorable Mr. Keswick, affor are about to remove, if we have not already to pay the large increase of salaries voted for removed. The building is suited in every way the current year, and that it is unadvisable for the purpose. There is a yard big enough that they should be paid this year if there is for us, with only a foot thoroughfare Into Lea enbail Stret, and therefore wagons can any doubt about the ability of the Colony to

be allowed to rest or walt during the day, to defray them as a permanent charge. They are

discharge cargo, or take in fresh loads. The still desirous of memorializing the Secretary of State on the subject and of having payment present office in Fenchurch Street is net suspended unifl his final decision has been enough. If you do not sanction or confirm received, and they have now the honor to request this resolution the building will be no incubus to you, as there, are tenants now, and I cán that your Excellency will favour them with the information above asked for, to enable

ensure having somebody else to take over the them to decide on the action to be taken by building, so that your hand is not forced in any them, and will refuse to lasue warrants way by my having taken there premises. I think I have already indicated one way in which I would lor payments of salaries at the increased rates, pending a fresh appeal to the Home Government, Invest thereserve funds of the bustness. Up to now even although the confirmatory despatch referred for the greater part they have been invested in bricks and mortar only-in business premises to by Governor des Voeux in bts communication of the 21st ultimo has been received. In the occupied by ourselves. I think you will agree with me thatthere are two very safe methods of invest Colony.

ment. And now as to the way in which the shares should be issued. The last fasue was throws open to the public, and I think the shares were many times over-applied for-17 times applied for. At that time it was judicious in Your Excellency's most obedient the Interests of the company to give the public an interest in the business; the public readily availed themselves of the opportunity and it has strengthened the business very much, for as you know there have been rather depressing times, but not withstanding these depressing times and the very serious check to our onward progress by the fire which occurred in May last we have done an increasing business. The first four months, to point of fact, up to the date of the fire last year, promised a very hand some business and good returns for the year.. During that perind the returns (gross) for the corresponding period of the previous were za per cent, in advance of the returns year. There was of course a big drop after the fire, for the simple reason that we could not supply the demand, but as the supplies came towards the end of the year it had recovered forward the business began to grow again, and itself. During the first four months of this year (we have only the Egures up to that time) I ace that although the first two months of this year were below 1890, for the first two months the figures of last year were in excess of those of the year before, and the last two months of this year are in excess of March and April of last which were the best two months we ever had. (Applause) I would propose to issue the new hares to present shareholders only. I put the resolution in an open manner, but 1 think it only right to tell you that that is what I mean to do. The only thing is that I dare say there are many shareholders who are not registered yet, and some time ought to be allowed to them to register, so that I would not issue any new capital for at least a mouth from this date. With this explanation I would move the special resolution, and ask one of you to be kind enough to second it.

The resolution was duly seconded and carried unanimously,

An early reply will be deemed a favor, as the undersigned are destrous' of laying their views before the Secretary of State with as little dolny as possible.

We have the honor to be, Sir,

humble servants,

(Signed) P. RYRIK,

HO KAL.

T

T. H. WHITEHEAD.

COLONIAL SECRETARY'S OFFICE,

Hongkong, 13th May, 1891. SIR-i am directed by his Excellency the Officer Administering the Government to acknow- ledge the receipt by him yesterday evening of a memorial dated 11th instant signed by yourself, attention of bis Excellency to correspondence Dr. Ho Kal, and Mr. Whitehead, calling the which has recently taken place on the subject of the salaries of the officers of this Government, and requesting information.

2. In reply I am to inform you that despatches have been received from the Right Honorable the Secretary of State for the Colonies conveying his lordship's view and instructions in regard to the increased salaries voted in 1891 estimates, but as their receist was preceded by a telegram from Lord Knutsford referring to a telegram from Sir G. W. des Voeur, dated 25th April, and directing the suspension of action on those despatches pending the receipt of further orders now on their way, his Excellency awaits those orders before taking further steps.

THE Peking Gasdite reports the approaching departure of Yi-k'o-tang-ab, the Military Governor of the Amoor, on a tour of Inspection of the northern frontier, Last winter he made a similar inspection of the districts lying_to_the cast of Hulan, and enquired into the state of the country and the condition of the people. On the present occasion his visit will embrace Moerhken, Put'ėka, Helnganch'dog and Hellungchang and places occupied by soldiery where numerous gramatics. and military store- houses are established. He has arranged for the due discharge of his official duties during his absence, by appointing Wo Heng-nge and Niu Leng-ngo, to jointly preserve order in the city; they are both men of high character and courage and сад ba depended upon in any emergency. He has associated with them two other high officials by whom the daily routine work of the yamen will be carried on, but he has left instructions that should matters of importance arise he is to be at once communicated with. On his last journey of Inspection memorialist suffered greatly from the extreme cold, and although his health is much The Honorable P. Rile. improved stil he is far from strong, and he therefore proporca to travel now by easy stages. Moeshken and His firat halting places will be Hsinganch tag, where he will meet the civil and military officials from Lunch'on: he will consult with them and devise measures for puting the district in order. Afterwards he will visit the upper reaches of the Nun Chiang and examine, that country so as to be able to determine at what points garrisons shall be established, and on his return will present a detailed account of his journey.

I am desired to add that no reference was made in the telegram to any communication having been received by Lord Knutsford from

the un-official members.

3. The decision as to the further action to be taken in this matter, most naturally depend upon the instructions which the Secretary of State has indicated as being en route,

I have the honour to be, Sir,

Your most obedient servant, (Signed) W. MRICH GOODMAN,

for Acting Colonial Secretary,

A. S. WATSON & CO., LIMITED.

1

The ordinary general meeting of the share, holders in the above Company was held at the Dispensary this afternoon (May 14th). Mr. J. D. Humphreys presided, and among those present were Mesura, H., Wicking, F. Rapp, H. Heuerman, D. McCulloch, G. T. Veitch, J. Grant, J. Japp, I S. Hagen, A. O'D Gourdin, JH. Cox, G. C. Cox, H. Mancell, H. Humphreys, R. K

The Chairman in closing mentioned that

the shares were to be issued at a premium of not less than too per cent, even to the shareholders. He had been told shareholders ought to get them for less, but did not think in the interests of the Company it could be done.. It was necessary to strengthen the Company and put it on a solid footing, and in the interests of the shareholders themselves there should be no such advantage. There were over 800 shareholders, and it would add very greatly to the difficulties of alloting. Another

The case was therefore adjourned until to- monow."

Mr. Stokes also asked his Worship to allow a charge against a head turnkey, named. Quin, to stand over, on the same grounds.

The defendant was called and charged that about the 19th March he unlawfully violated the prison regulations. He pleaded that he had been already convicted and punished for that offence, and was faed $10 by Major-General Gordon, then Superintendent, who has now gone home.

Defendant was farther charged that on Decem. ber 15, 1897, he unlawfully suffered spirituous liquors to enter the Gaol. He denied the charge

The case was remanded till to-morrow.

At the Magistracy this morning (15th lnst.), before Mr. A. Wise, the adjourned summonses against J. L. Wood, turnkey, for having introduced liquor fato Gaol, and having given a cigar to a prisoner named John Gray, were further heard. Mr. Stokes, men liceting Superintendent behalf of A. M. Thomson, Acting of Victoria Gaol, and Mr. Caldwell, of MessrY. Caldwell and Wilkinson, defended.

Mr. Stekes suggested that the two charges against the defendant should be heard together, and asked his Worship to amend the charges, as he wished to make it read that the defendant was not only charged with carrying spirituous liquors to G. W. Ward, but also to others.

Mr. Caldwell had no objection to the amend ment, but said it was only fair to the defendant to let him know the time and place of the alleged offences.

uryal custom by not having the meeting reported

Have you a cell by yourself ?—I have. Is Watson, the same ?--I bellova.ro. Do you see Watson at all in the recreation Mr. Wainewright did not think any inferenca ground or anywhere ?-No, he does not take could be dawn, as it was so obviously unde exercien now that he is in charge of the book-airable to kaya the meeting reported. binding, and I get quite enough recreation In Mr. Drammond said the objection to holding scrubbing.

meeting at the end of the present an informal one was that it would be impossible to discuss the affairs of the company at such a meeting to any useful purpose, and it would be much better to appoint a committee of three or four or five shareholders to confer with the directors.

You never saw Watson to speak to about this matter No.

You did not know Watson was to be a witness; in this case 7--No.

Re-examlood :—Wood has given me cigars. I cannot say be has done so since December. He told me he had given Ward elgars, frequently given me spirits; he has given me By bla Wonhip-The defendant has spirits on more than three occasions. - I have never rewarded him in any way.

Mr. Stokes sald he wished to ask for a rémand, as he had received certain instractions which he wished to follow up further,

Mr. Caldwell hail no objecilon. day, Mr. Stokes not asking for bail.

His Worship remas led the case till Wednes

J. Quinu, head-turnkey, Victoria Gaol, was then charged with carrying spirituous liquors into the Gaol to be used by prisoners, contrary to Ordinance 18 of 1882, on the 35th December, 1890-Mr. Stokes prosecuted.

Henry Watson, re-called, said that he knew the defendant as a head-turnkey in Gaol. He gave witness spirits on Christmas Day last year. The spirits were contained in's Florida water bottle. He thought the drink was mixed with Florida water. He was sure there was some scent in it. He was given the drink in the library to the afternoon. The prisoner Gray was present. Gray's work at the time was in the library.

His Worship sald he would see that no harm was done to Mr. Caldwell's client, and he would go on with the case. After some discussion evidence was then called; the first witness being

H. Watson, who sald-I am a prisoner f Cross-examined by the defendant-I was in the library. You gave me the bottle and I gave Victoria Gaol, I know the defendant; he is a

The defendant has some to Gray. I do not know if Gray saw you turkey in the gaol.

It give me the bottle, but I think he did. I did once given me "pirits whilst in gaol. was on Christmas Day. Prisoner Gray was

at report it then, and I would not have done so present. It was given to me in the Prisoners now only I was questioned. The battle held Library. He never gave me tobacco. I never

about half a pint. I cannot say where the bottle saw him give tobacco or cigars to others. I saw, but I think General Gordon got it. him give cigarettes to a prisoner named Ward. Gray did not drink any of it in your That was on the steps leading to the printing presence. You had walked away.

John Gray stated that he could not say that office. I was going up-stairs, from the corridor, and I saw one or two cigarettes fall on the stairs, the defendant had ever given him spirits. We had seen him give spirits to Watson. It hap I suppose they had fallen in handling. This was a few days before Christmas Day.

pened on Christmas Day, and was in the prisoners' library. He could not remember the time of the day, but it was between 'y a.m. and'; p.m. The liquor was in a Florida, water bottle,

His Worship Did you taste it ?—I did. Did the defendant, put it is Watson's hand I forget.

Cross-examined by Mr. Caldwell :-I am in gaol for larceny. My sentence is seven years. I saw the Superintendent last night in the presence of Mr. Stokes, in the office. fhave been in gaol three years and five montba.

You were told, I suppose, in the event of conviction in this case your sentence would be shortened, were you not 7---No; I was not.

Well, some hopes were held out to you, were they not?-No..

on

When do you expect to get out of gaol 7-At the end of my time. I was doing hard labour until last Friday. I was first spoken to about this case last Tuesday or Wednesday week. I was then in hospital. Now that I am not hospital the Superintendent has given me a billet as librarian. He did so last Friday. The billet was vacant, owing to the previous librarian The defendant gave me some spirits being released, and I applied for the place. Christmas Day, in the library between due and two o'clock in the afternoon. The prisoner Gray was there, It was in an ordinary medicine Gray may have had the first drink, When bottle, Gray had some. It was neat whisky, I and Gray had had a drink, the bottle was passed round again. I don't know why the

t gave me the whisky.. Then why did you reveal the fact 7--I should not have done so had I not been questioned.

And you do not think your appointment of librarian or the remission of hard labour has anything to do with this case ?-I do not.

defendant

By the Court--I don't think Wood or Ward saw me when the cigarettes were being given.

John Gray was then called, and examined as follows:-Lama prisoner in Victoria Gaol. I know the defendant as a turnkey in the Geol. He has given me spirits on more than one occasion. I remember Watson being present on one occasion on Christmas Day, in the prisoners' library. He has offered cigars to me. The prisoner Watson has told me that the defendant has given him cigars. He offered me one about the and or the 5th of this month,

You are quite sure it was spirits 7—Yes. Cross-examined by the defendant-I cannot remember the time. I saw the liquor in Watson's hand. You were not in the library when we drank it. You had walked away.

Why did you not report it at the time ? Would you have liked me to have done so ?.

Mr. Stokes said that was the case for the prosecution, and he did not propose to say anything.

In answer to his Worship, the defendant sald he was innocent of the charge. He had been seven years employed in the Gaol, and over thirty years a Government servant, and he thought he knew his duty by this time. He had no witnesses.

4.

+

His Worship, addressing Mr. Thomson, asked what the defendant's character was,

Mr. Thomson said he could not say, but the defendant had not been reported to him since his appointment. Perhaps foncs, the warden, would know.

The Chairman suggested that the other managers, Mesure Short and Dyer,' should be kalden before appointing a committee. allowed to place their scheme before the share-

| Mri Dziramond said it would not be necessary for them to put any scheme before the share holders, but it would do to put it before the com mittee appolated to consult with the directors,

Some further discussion took place, Mr, Waine- wright and Mr. Dallas pointing out that the appointment of a committee of shareholders was not intended in any way to be considered as A of want.of.confidence la the directors.

Chord said that with reference to some thing which had been said at the last meeting as to the Hongkong business, he would like to call upon Mr. Skeels; the manager at Hongkong, who was present, to make a statement with regard to the Hongkong company.

k

Mr. A. E., Skeel-Mr. Chaiman, I feel th pumbent upon me (with your permission) to" make a few remarks to the Fah-lee shareholders. Gentlemen, considering the widespread depres sión in Hongkong during the past two years and the enormous difficulties we have had to contend with since our formation, I think that all business men (especially Hongkong residents) will look upon the Hongkong Trading Company's report for the past, year an faltly satisfactory for a new baslaess. It is hardly necessary for me to revert to the period of acquiring this concern, as its well known that the main object of getting

footing into Hongkong was to forward the interests of the Empiro Brewery, and I think

sales thus far have exceeded their anticipations ; your managers are prepared to admit that the in fact, we only require a part of the contracts for of your property. I venture to say that when the troops to make this, the most valuable portion you are prepared to cater for these contracts you

eventually secure them, as there are no pale ales or stouts imported to compare with the present brews you have placed on the market.

other branches of our business we are doing a ateady trade, baving broken down, the so-called monopoly said to exist in Hongkong. Our new. premises are admirably situated, and having now gained the confidence of the public 'our success (in my opinion) in the future is assured. I may also add that returns to the end of March of this year compare.most favourably, with last year's figures to the same date.

The motion was then put and carried. Mr. Dallas moved."

That Mr. Geo. R. Comer be re-elected sa auditor, ning v

* Me. Clifford seconded and the motion was carried al

was prepared to nominate any shareholders as The Chairman asked Mr. Drummond if he members of the committee.

Mr.'Drummond, said not. He was merely the " representative of an absent shareholder and it would be better for the nominations to be made by actual shareholders.

Mr. Clifford 'sald he thought two should be

nominated by himselfand one by the Directors

Mr. Wainewright said he thought the Board could he trusted to invite some shareholders to full || confer with them),

Jones was called, and said he could not remember all the reports agalast the defendant, but he had had a serious one agalust him, recently. (He produced the record book, which his Worship looked at.)

His Worship He never seems to have been actually punished,

Jones-He was fined $ro once.

Mr. Thomson-That is the highest fine that can be imposed.

His Worship said the defendant admitted yesterday being fined $10 for some offence However, he would not deal with the case at present. He would adjourn it for a week, and allow the defendant out on bail in a sum of $200. addressing Mr. Thomson)-I presume the defen- I have not seendant is suspended from duty..

Mr. Thomson replied in the affirmative.

him give liquor or cigar to any other prisoner, except Watson.

Cross-examined: I was convicted for

larceny, and sentenced to three years Impriann. ment, Of that time I have served about thirteen months, I expect to get out when 1 have served two years. I saw the Superintendent yesterday afternoon.

Have you been told that in case of a conviction in this case you would be likely to get some remission, or have your sentence shortened - have not been told anything of the kind.

Are you on hard labour now ?—I suppose wa are always on hard labour.

HALL AND HOLTZ CO-OPERATIVE

COMPANY, LIMITED,

Mr. Clifford and the Board would be in favour of persons who supported their own policy and -The Chairman asked Mr. Clifford to make a: might neutralle all his efforts for reform. proposition p

Mit, Clifford said he would make a compromise. He would nominate two, and the Board two,

Chairman said that when Mr. Nölting returned, the Board would nominate two shareholders, and request them to attend the Board meeting..

- The proceedings then terminated with's vote! of thanks to the Chairman-Mercury, t

THE FOREIGN RAILWAY EMPLOYÉS IN

w CHINA

During the past couple of weeks notes have). appeared in the public paper with reference to what cannot but be considered as a most serious outbreak of anti-foreign feeling, in a field in The adjourned general meeting of shareholders which, for China's own sake, it is most essential in the above was held at the Company's offices, that she should have the best foreign assistance Shanghai, on the 6th inst., Mr. John Morris obtainable in her newly opened and tit presiding. There were present, Messrs. W. H. struggling railway system in the metropolitan Short, W. W. Clifford, A. E. Skeele, J. A. province. The trouble at Kaiping has culminate Stewart, R. E. Walnewright, J. S. Nazer, K. W. in the voluntary retirement of seven out of the Mustard, J. Ambrose, H. M. Perkins, H., fourteen English guards, engine drivers, foremen Limby, B. Clough, A. Cload, J. P. Cottam, Wi and other working employés of the Raliway and

Dallas, Į. Moosa, and W. V. Drummond, repre- prised; therefore, to hear that his Excellency seating in all 3,884 shares and 333 vodore the Kinder to engage other Foreigners from whatever the Viceroy of Chihli has issued orders to ME. The Chairman said the question before

Leigh, G. Murray Batn, R.. Lyall, H. Crawford,cting would be required to confirm this Well, what do you do now ?-I am scrubbing H. Beatty, F. E. Riley, C. H. Hutchings, C. H. Mining Companies, and we are not at all sur

W. D. Sutton, A. M. Brace, Chan A Fuk (bual- THE UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS AND | ness manager), and T. H. Talbot (secretary);

The notice convening the meeting having OFFICIAL SALARIES.

been read.

The following correspondence has been for warded to us by the Uuofficial members, for publication:-

Letter dated at

April, flat, Va.

melal Members

to his Excellency the Daverior:

the

Hongkong, 11th May, 1891. His Excellency Major-General George Digby Briker, C.B., Officer Adininistering Government,

the

Letter dated noth SIR-We the undersigned have Apii, cai, hon, the honor to call your Excellency's Ex attention to the Correspondence, Excellency Governor. indicated in the margin, that has Letter dated atat recently passed between the Un- Apell, 1991, Acting Colonial Secretary official Members of the Legislative to Uo-official Meu Council of Hongkong, and the Governor of the Colony, Bir Letter dated #th April ster, Un-George W. Des Voeux, K.C.M.G. officht Members Your Excellency will see from to his Excelency that Correspondence,

ber,

The Chairman said-I propose that the report and statement of accounts be taken as read, and I shall not only be very pleased to answer any questions that may be asked, but I hope that if any one has any question to ask he will take this

1 opportunity of bringing it forward. There were no questions, and the report and accounts as presented were unanimously adopted

On the motion of the chairman the retiring directors and additor were re-elected.

The Chairman stated that the dividend warrants would be ready to-morrow at eleven o'clock.*** This concluded the business of the ordinary meeting.

An extraordinary meeding was then held for the purpose of considering a proposal to increase the capital of the Company to $600,000, by Issuing 10,000 new shares of $10 each.

The Chairman said-Gentlemen, I beg to meve the special resolution for which this meet (1) That in the Estimates for the current yearing is convened. At the ordinary yearly meet. that it would

the Governor.

probably be necessary before

resolution.

After some Httle discussion as to preference in allotting shares, the meeting was brought to a close by a vote of thanks to the Chairman and *tail

LIFE IN VICTORIA GAOL,

Certain statements have been made recently in local publications as to prisoners in Victoria

Gaol being able to enjoy luxuries not con- templated by the Prison Regulations. These yards seem to have mialed the guileless Crown Prosecutor, who this moming (14th inst.) made a conspicuous exhibition of feebleness in the utter collapse of a charge brought against one of the warders before the Magistrate

Mr. Stokes (as one of the Crown Solicitors) appeared to prosecute in the cast Queen v took the charge of carrying letters from a J. L. Wood, on three charges. He first Prisoner between the 29th November and 7th

April last,

Mr. Caldwell defended,

Mr. G. W. Ward was first called, and stated

and washing at prescot,

Is that what is called hard labour ?-I do not know, but I would say it was hard labour. Then you call that hard labour ?--I do,

Is not shot-drill hard labour 7-Yes.

1

suppose you used to do that 7-Yes; bat

1

]

do not do so NOW,

When did you leave that off I-In June last year.

Then there is another form of labour-sakum

picking. Did you do any of that Yer.

When did you knock off that? This month. When, this week?—No..

Last week? Most probably last week. About Friday -No It was not Friday. remember heard anything of the defendant's

was a Monday, Had you case before oakum-picking was knocked off?— No. I had not.

Who told you to knock off oakum-picking? The Superintendent,

I

He asked you what you knew about this case supposef-He asked me, but I did not tell him what I knew.

.

Then he possibly knocked off your oakum. picking because you did not tell him anything? ing at this time last year I told yong ta: increase that he was a prisoner in Victoria Crael between

Possibly, That was an indulgence?-I do not know that the capital with which the firm carried on its November 20th and April 7. During that I have been in receipt of any indulgence, I do business: You have had a year to consider theme ho did not write letters to Mrs Goulbourn, not think oskum-picking, as against washing matter and the resolution is now formally put He did not write: nor see any letters and scrubbing, is mas

is an indulgence. The former In before you to-day. In moving it I think if only writes, or sent to Mrs: Goulbene, nor know preferable. right to give you a general idea of the and positively that he never handed any letters at the reason that Wood gave you drink

of any being sent; › Could swear

this liquor what do you think is

meeting was the amendment moved at the last quarter available to fill the places of the men, meeting by Mr. Galles and seconded by Mr who have by reason of the mob violence, which }, ]

.D. Clark-g art vann prerano 15 intevalls in the neighbourhood of Tangshan, been? - That no dividend be paid, and that the whole } forced to throw optheir employment. Several of | balance at credit of proft and loss "account be" the men are now in Shanghal on their way home

carried forward,

KAWA, and amongst them are some of the oldest and This motion was then put to the vote and most respected, employés of both companies. carried by a large majority, setem

Men do not voluntarily give up good am. The Chairman said the next resolution was ployment and good pay without grare reasons, proposed by himself and seconded by Mr. but, from nally accounts : this ex-employds of Nulting. It was dus Domain Manista Chian's pioneer: Railway and Mining Com

That the report and accounts of the Hall & panies could not so well a have remained; at accepted and passed, destande med en cur Jeopardising their lives. For the causes Holts Co-operailve Co., (amended) be|thele: wothing the Norik, without @marionaly |

The motion was carried,

the Authority of the Council, but that the question for which it is, in my opining, OR DECORime to Wood to take to Mrs. Goulbous. | I expect he did so for one of two reasons- | ga on with the special meeting rulerred to the trustledon fand outin peosta :behaviour:" of these

If anybody were to swear to having seen a letter in the handwriting of witness to Mrs. Goulbourn during that period it would be utterly false. Nor did he ever get Wood to carry any letter for him to any person whatever.

No cross-examination,

*1

possibly he gave me. It out of good nature, or possibly he thought I knew something of his giving things to Ward.

the Legislative Council approved of, and so far as was with their competence authorised, the payment of the salaties of the officers of the Government for the current year on a scale con alderably in advance of previous rates:

(2) That payment of the dilates, at the Increased rater to authorized was not made on was reserved for and referred to the decision I will go on to tell you my reasons for of Her Malestra Secretary of State for the to get the money in this way?" The Colcales, and that, so far as is known, his objects for which the additional capital is decision has not yet been received in the Colony required are the extension of the business and (3) That in March last the Unofficial Mem- the strengthening of some of our departments

What was the drink ?--It was spirits of some bers of Council, having come to the conclusion with stack. At the present momentaire

kind brandy or whisky, that the Colony, could not afford to pay the rking in many of our departments on from

What was it in 7-A medicine bottle, I should increased rates of salary, and that the Council month's to six weeks stock. In some depart Mm. Judith Goulbourn“ stated that she had | say. in Voling them had acted hastily and Impro-ments there is a certain amount of advantage in not at any time between last November and now Was Watson there at the time I believe ho vidently, took steps to have the question recon- this, because although you may slightly restrict ever had a letter handed to her from may prisoner was. I did not let the matter press upon my sidered, and requested his Excellency the business, you have no bad stock, and obtain a ❘ in the Gaol by Wood. Never received any" memory.in'any way, Governor to move the Secretary of State to reputation for always having good stock and letter through Wood, and did not imow him. Are you ate he was there. I am not reserve his decision, until they had had the new stock. This is especially the case in Never received any letter from a prisoner in the absolutely positive about it aga opportunity of memorializing him on the subject: physic and proprietory articles, drugs, and Gaol at all

When did he give you a cigar About the (4.) That his Excellency the Governor refused, chemicals, and perhaps we gain more by having Mr Stokes, admitted that this charge had and or 5th of this month. after considerable delay, on the grounds stated continually fresh goods than we lose by not entirely failed, as he had no more evidence, and What part of the gaol was that in ?---The top in bis letter of the arst ultimo, to assist the being able in all cases ip execute orders without Mr. Wise accordingly dismissed it, too! Ben Sto

part of the gash Unofficial Members obtaining reconsider delay. But there are some departments in which With regard to the two other charges of stion of the question in this year, of even in freshness is no advantage Nobody desires to breach of prison regulations and admitting near as I can say approaching the

State on the drink new port; nobody prefers now whisky to spirituous Equors and tobacco Into the Gaol ald. Departments where age is an advantage Hiz. Stokes Raked for an adjournment bo order Baba Weber Bent Departments hardcore

5 There are to apply for latva to obtain the evidence of a Telegraphle mesenge to the Right Homossblé, departments in our business wh grown, prisoner in the Guol (Gray) Palisad

"of

About "what" tinse was

About kimi, as He spoke to you through the gate 8-Yen

Belupom more which, have led to the trouble we have The Chairman sald the retiring Directors were not to go far to seek. They are of s the only persons eligible for election as Directors, characteristic Chinese kind, and bear a close the shareholder who had handed in his name, knalogy to those which lately caused the retire haying withdrawn..

Galeriewer ment from China's navy of Admiral Lang and Mr. Corner proposed and Mr. Skeels seconded, other English naval officers serving in Li's feet. Tant Mestrs, Morris, Nolting, Walker, and

and: In the latter case it was the jealousy, and libe Cifford be re-elected for the enrning years dues concealed hatred by the Fuldanese faction of the Mr. Clifford said he wished before allowing Foreign element in the control and ordinary kis name to be put to the meeting to ask the Wick, stogý? diuiation} "in") thaṁ railway and in

of the ships that forced on the present Chairman if he was prepared to advocate way, system of reforme a dual comenten" mining districts has been brought about The. Chakman, mid he was not prepared to by the - Cantonese element, awach Uhar answer that; question at present: : 11 he were ; been largely introduced, both because of their elected he would be willing to hour suggestions|| superior mechanical, skill and also because the and say what the directors were willia" ke dager director of of the companies show the usual

Mir,, Drummond asked if it was, intended to cleanish feeling for their own provinciala." The -

other day.

dhe pasi i2, 242 centry will be found in serious siden bling-block to The Chairman said that If Mr. Clifford and the fame devopment of these infant indeselen, the twenty shareholders will required it un whicht certainly need all the encouragement and doubt the Board would be willing to have the cooperation they can get, and anything whick mecting

Casca Internal fiction is to be avoided, as the Mr. Drummond said that the proceedings at outside opposition is quite enougis in itself to tas such a meeting must almost necessarily be sablie, all the energies and resources of those who hars and if it were necessary to do anything in the way taken in hand the building of railways and the of enquiring into the conduct of the business if opening of milnes in China. But as long as the would", be much better in the interests of the Viceroy, and those associated with him in thess tasks permit auch { outbreaks'se that at shareholders not to have the meeting hat in Appoint a commités of shareholders to comenit with the Board privately, ozdica ploded az ala that slovemans of the Railway Works" and

The Chairman and that when the business: Inspector of Kolling Stock was nearly murdered) of the meeting was concluded they might invlic by the Cantoorse, employés of the Minin the shareholders present to remain and discuss Compray ito. razı unpunished, progress whil gated the dificulties of the pioneers of mich work In the situation informally sade 121.sia be slow and costanter and trouble ill add to So far in wacan learn, there seems to cause whatever for the savagy Cantonese employds of the

there was

to have a report of the proposed: mosti; published.CH NEWES

He only offered it to you I'm yes.

Are you quita certain about the time of the

Mr. Drammond : thoug

day when that took place ?-X ains

gofthe 8th of April when Mr. Buras,

non the Raira)