1891-06-11 — Page 6

THE HONGKONG TELEGRAPH, THURSDAY, JUNE 11, 1891.

COUNCIL.

الصيف

"THE proper study of man kind is man, The MEETING OF THE LEGISLATIVR is being passed it is will that all affected human race la acting upon this theory now more than ever before. An international ethnological exposition is to be held at Paris in 1892, with specimens of the human race throughout the world. Macao ought to be strongly représented.

such tickets, apkly tested before long. quatlan

will be thoroughly THAT abortion of abortions, yelept the Gambilug- Ordinance, was galo the cause of two valuable hours belog wasted at the Magistracy on the 3rd inst, when Mr. Wise, with more patience than even the patriarch Job could be expected to display under the circumstances, sat and 'decided a case in which nine men were charge 3 with being concerned in gambling to a house at Shau-ki-wan on the 27th ulto. Mr. Phillippa defended three of the accused and Mr. Wilkinson the balance, and each succeeded in clearing bis clients. Mr. Wise ordered the return of all the articles and mmey seized-with the exception of some gambling paraphernalia that was found

the house.

MINUTES.

The minutes. of the last meeting were read and confirmed.

ANOTHER ACTING MEMBER.

Mr Leach took the oath and his seat a Acting Attorney General, in place of Mr. J. Goodman, who now fills the vacancy caused by the resignation of Mr. W. M. Deane, Acting Colonial Secretary.

THE OBSERVATORY.

The Acting Colonial Secretary laid on the table the report of the Director of the Observa tory for 1890. It appears lu another column.

VOTES.

MOVE

the second reading or not. Mr. Whitehead said he had understood that the Opium Ordinance formed a precedent for his present action. Counsel was then heard, when the bill came on for second reading, on behalf of the oplam merchants of Hongkong. He was not aware whether counsel was allowed to take

The Acting Colonial Secretary moved that the votes recommended by the Finance Compart in the dicussion. mittee at the last meeting be approved.

The Colonial Tressurer seconded, and the were adopted without discussion.

A LONG CATECHISM.

The Acting Colonial Secretary thought it most incompatible that counsel should be allowed to interpose in the debate. If the persons interested were to have the advantage of counsel It should certainly be previous to the debate os the second reading. He ought also to say that the passing of this resolution ought not to be considered as forming a precedent for the admission of counsel. It was always open to persons outside of the Council to express their

邋

3130

committed and to those which are deemed to be of urgent necessity" but Mr. Fleming's despatch, No.

28th August Inst. forward- ing memorandum on the Public Works in execution or contemplation, did not clearly Indicate what works were already begun or were regarded as of such urgent necessity that it was necessary to proceed with them or commence them during last year. I gather, however, from the last column but one on page 33 of the 1891 Estimates that a considerable number of new Public Works were begun during 1890, which must therefore be taken to have been sanctioned even in my despatch No. 67 of 18th April last.

the qualified approval referred to abore as

I proceed to refer to some of the works placed on the present Estimates, in order of relative importance, according as they were lettered A, B, or C, in the memorandum enclosed in Mr. Fleming's despatch of 28th August last.

As regards (item 1) the Central Market, (item 10) Cattle Depot Extension and (item) Slaughter House, &, I trust that it will be found possible to carry out the strong recom- mendations of the un-official members of the Council (in enclosure to despatch under acknowledgment), as to reducing the estimated cost of there works, and before committing the Colony to the proposed expenditure. I request you to famish me with a special report as to the possibility of some appreciable reduction in re- gard to each of them.

October,

been drawn up by the Acting, Attorney General

||

Peak, and communication Arranged with the

Since writting your despatch under acknow. public good, if it is more in the publle taterent kill and invariable courtesy with which, the by it should be first heard, and discussion ledgment, you will have received my despatches that it should be to some extent restricted, there Chairman of the Commission conducted the freely conducted; although in seconding this Nos. 273 and 274 of arst November last, regard can be no valid objection to the proposed change enquiry. It is proper to call attention to this, as

on this ground."

it does not appear from the printed evidence resolution it is not to be understood that my tog the proposed extension of the Gaol, and i

5. But as the measure is one-of-some-im-attached to the report. But the printed evidence A meeting of the Legislative Council was sympathy is with the opposition to the shall await the result of the action which you.

are therein directed to take.

portance Mr. Keswick and the Acting Attorney is quite incomplete and misleading. Many Im- held on the 5th Inst. There were present: Ordinance.

The Acting Colonial Secretary aald with regard B. As regards the Extraordinary Public Works General, Mr. Ackroyd, expressed a desire that I portant remarks have been omitted by the re- H. E. Major-General Digby Barker, Admini- We understand that the firta principally testering the Government, Mr. W. M. Goodman to the mailon of the hon, member the rule was for which votes have been taken on these' } should submit a copy of it for your lordship's porter, and my explanations are quite facorrectly Endmates, I have to remind you that in my consideration before further proceeding, with it put down or not entered at all. Had the cir rested in the the Spanish Governerent tones (Acting Attorney-General) Mr. S. Brown counsel could be heard. He quoted from the despatch on last year's Estimates I limited my in the Legislative Council, more especially so as culation of the printed evidence not been limited rested in the sale of Manila lottery tickets bete (Acting Colonial Secretary) Mr. A. J. Leach that only on certain exceptional occasions

buy me a breaking popular fallacies concerning typhoons. vene with respect to the provisions of the nsw (Sarveyor-General) Mr. J. H. Stewart-Lockhart rules showing that counsel could be heard where

7. The Commission Gambling Ordinance dealing with the sale of † (Registrar-General); Mr. N. "G. Mitchell. | Individual rights or interesis of property were afr to those works “to which the Colony is the Council will not meet until the beginning, of it would have done much towards strengthening

I therefore enclose a copy of the Blil auralso:

mcommended the Innes (Colonial Treasurer)! Mears. Jaffected; etc. This was not a private bill it was bill Introduced by a private member.

a memorandum in explanation of it which has establishment of a branch. Observatory at the Keswick, T. H. Whitehead, F. Ryrie, and He One polut in the motion would require son-

Опе

In so far si my own opinion is concerned, I of the Eastern Telegraph sideration. The question might arise as to

cannot but think the measure'a'desirable one.”

Company General Palmer reported in 1881, that when counsel should be heard. It seemed

I shall be glad to receive your lordship's he considered a nemograph on

on the top of the advisable that it should be immediately before the motion for the second reading of the Bill. If

| at' Přákvés] balrègdfred.. At present an advance views upon it as soon as possible, fnasmuch It

Mr. Keswick will naturally be anxious to pro-

upon the knowledge of typhoons gained in the such counsel was not a member of the Hours would not be convenient for him to intervene in

ceed with the Bill, should it receive your lord Observatory during the past seven years depends the debate. After the address of counsel it would

ship's approval, without any annecerary delay mainly upon observations made on the top of 6. I forward, for your lordablo's Information" the Peak. We do not even know how far the then be for the hon, member who brought the

the report, as taken from the Hongkong Daily || present registers, kept by the signalmen, are to bill forward to consider how his views on the subject had been affected, and whether he would

Press, of the observations that were made when | bo typated, a gomthey show that the wind blows. the Alil was introduced by Mr. Keswick on the less strongly there during typhoons than it doen atst of July last.

otabene indigest på ting at sea level. It would be interesting to hava Here is Mr. Ackroyd's memorandum referred that point cleared up. We have no right to say to in the foregoing despatch the rest that the force of the wind is wrongly estimated. "This Bill, which is based on Lerman's ArtWe do not know whether it la right or wrong. (50 Vict, ch. 29) was introduced by the Hon. J.The Commission stated that the true direction J. Keswick in order to check and if possible to of the wind can be more early recorded at that stop for the future the great gambling in shuren | altitude, and the signs of an approaching typhoon which took place last year in Hongkong and more quickly noticed. It would also be well which led to great abuses and evils and to the to have s pluviograph working up there. That rain of many.

would supply certain information about rain-fall, which is very much required in Hongkong, 12. A new cable was laid across the harbour in the spring of 1890, and the Observatory is now in direct connection with the offices of the Tele graph Companies. That was of course the principal defect in connection with the Imme diate utility of the observations, and no improve ment could take effect without it. It is to be regretted that the cable was not laid in 1881- The signalman's house on the Peak is now in, telephonic connection with the Central Palics' Station In Victora and the Observatory is in telephonie connection with the Police Station at *If only the regular, or what I would call Kowlota::Palat, where the storm-sigonis are professional gamblers or speculators were ruined, holated. With reference to improvements in the would not be ancha public matter as it has lysue of weather intelligence consequent apos become, but a great many young men and others the lying of the cable, the notice reprinted as who have some money to risk are induced to "Appendix A," to this report may be consulted. buy shares for future dates on fair promises, Telegraphic connection with Victoria was trusting that they will be fairly dealt with, and interrupted on the 15th May from 12.15 p. til afterwards find that they are exposed to acts 225 p. on the 16th May, from ro,ốn, till 17.35 mg which are not far removed from being criminal, from 2.0 p. on the 13th Jane Hill ́ 8.37 m., on the There is no doubt that the evil to very great and 14th, from 140 on the 13th September till that It should be stopped If possible-the wrcent 1:36′0, on the 15th, and from 3.45 p., on the cases of embezzlement by bank clerks and others 8th December till 11.25 a. on the roth. It was which have been unravelled at Crimin) Sessions of course also interrupted during thunderstorms. 10. The China Coast Meteorological Reglater, based on information received direct from the Easter Extension and Great Northern Tele graph Companies, was issued daily (Sundays and Government holidays excepted). It contains at present telegrams (corrected and reduced) from "On the other hand it is urged against the Wladivostock, #Tokio, "Nagasaki, #Shanghai- Bill that it is a serious interference with the (Harbour Office), Feschew, Amoy, Anping, freedom of contract which should not be restricted Swatow, Victoria Peak, Canton, "Macao, Hol- unless public interests required it ; that there how, Haiphong, "Bollazo, Marlia and Cape are no public interests involved, but only the Saint James. The stations furnished with in freely enter into these contracts; that no such | of the weather expected in this part of China la law has been passed in England and no sufficient apponded as well as information concerning the reason has been shown why such sa exceptional first appearance and progress of typhoons and s measure should be introduced here, and that full account of all meteorological signals and. even if the law was passed it would be evaded"; storm-warnings issued during the previous 24 as the English-Act has been set at nought there hours,

THINGS generally in the colony, and especially on the Rialto, are gloomier than ever. Govel aor des Vœux lett Hongkong a few weeks too soon Had he been here now, that amusing budget of optimistir twaddle which his Excellency Indicted on a long-suffering and patient Council and foolishly imagined he was evolving a sufficient reply to the Hon. T. H. Whitehead' able and thoroughly business-like review of Hongkong' true financial position and commercial prospects would probably never have been uttered-cr if ft bad, it would have beed all taken back with full apologies. With the public at large next door to starvation, the pampered Government officials of the Mitchell-Innes stamp are bardly likely to have a long lease of the lavish increase of salaries they have striven so hard to "squeeze" out of an already disgracefully over-taxed com- munity.

Mr. Whitehead asked the following questions, of which he had given notice, and which were set down on the orders of the day!----

With reference to the explanation given by his Excellency Sir G. William des Veens at the Council meeting held on the 30th April last, In connection with the payment of the arrears of the Military Contribution for 1890 without the sanc tion of the Council, will the Government lay upon the table a copy of the telegram or tele- gramsfrom the Secretary of State on the authority of which the money was pald 7 -

Will the Government lay upon the table a Colonial Secretary's letter of 13th instant to copy of the Despatches, referred to in the Acting the Honourable F. Ryrie, received from the Right Honourable the Secretary of State for the Colonies, conveying his Lordship's views and Instructions in regard to the increased salaries voted in the 1891 Estimates, and state the date on which the same were received, also a copy of Governor Sir G. William des Veeps telegram dated 25th ultimo to the Secretary of State of the telegram received from the Secretary of referred to in the said letter together with a copy

In reply } State

Will the Government lay upon the table a and September copy of the despatch dated last of His Excellency the Officer then Ad- ministering the Government to the Right Hon.

views by petition.

Mr. Waltehead referred to the debate in the House of Lords recently on the admission of counsel in the Newfoundland fisheries debate.

The motion was then amended, "immediately prior to " belog inserted in place of "on" before #second reading."

The Standing Orders being suspended, the Acting Governor pat Mr. Whitehead's resolution, saying that it rested entirely with the members as to whether they would admit counsel to represent the views of the petitioners In this queation, and he did not wish to bias any one in any way as to what they would do,

There was no further discussion, and the motion was carried,

RETROSPECTIVE.

The Acting Colonial Secretary moved the second reading of the B entitled "An Ordinance to give the same validity to Ordinances Nos. 18 and 19 of 1884 as if they had been proclaimed to come into force on the 23rd day of September, 1884

the Council afterwards went into Committee on The Acting Attorney-General seconded, and the Bill.

THE FORTS. “

The Acting Colonial Secretary moved the second reading of the Bill entitled "The Forts were already two Ordinances in existence dealing with the matter the Sketches Frevention Ordinance, 1889. This Bill was more of a Ordinance, 1888, and the Stone-cutters Island general nature, its purpose being to prevent any perion, not being a military officer in uniform, from going into the foris. It was introduced under the direction of the Secretary of State. The Acting Attorney-General seconded, Mr. Ho Kat asked if it would not be more convenient to consolidate the three Ordinances, in which he was supported by Mr. Whitehead.

The Bill was read a second time, and on the Council going into Committee,

The Acting Colonial Secretary stated that it would entall considerable trouble to combine the Ordinances, especially as the present Bill was somewhat dissimilar from the others.

i

“This gambling exists to a certain extent now and may be renewed at any timent Two or three large operators and monied men, Having sold largely for delivery at future dates, can do daubt in Hongkong rule, the markets and by continuing to sell, they lower considerably the price of the stock they are dealing in, thereby either ruining or causing heavy losses to those 10. I have also to request you to report whe-who have bought, and injuring the stock by ther you cannot adopt the suggestion of the un- depreciating it without any good reason, to the official members, that a portion of the Hospital prejudice of bond fids shareholders ↑ and this 1s Staff quarters (items 15 and 16), which are said done by unscrupulous speculators who have no to be on too large and extravagant a scale, interest in the stock. should be converted into an addiulon to the Hos- pital, and whether, in that case (Item 17) the vote for alterations and additions to the Hospital cannot be dispensed with. In the meantime I will suspend my sanction to this vote.

ri. I am prepared to approve the vote for item 21) Magazines for Explosives and Pier at Stone-cutters Island, if it is really of primary and immediate importance to proceed with them this year, but if not, one or both of them should be postponed, In view of the considerable num ber of other works in hand. The expenditure on these two works should apparently have been voted separately. I gather from the letter refer red to in my despatch No. 3 of the 3rd ultimo that the new Pier is to cost about $6,100, so that I presume the estimated cost of the Maga zine is over $11,000.

12. With reference to (item 8) "Improvement -Recreation Ground," I am prepared to sanction the completion of the sanitary improvements already begun, (as I understand), around the site of the Race Course, but I am unable to sanction the remaining portion of this vote, apparently inken separately), Intended for alteration and extension of the Race Course, at any rate pending further information as to the necessity for this work, which would hardly seem to bo justified until at least other more pressing works have been executed.

13. I observe that (itern '12) Slaughter House, Kowloop, is net down at $6,500, whereas its cost last year was only estimated at $3,000,, and 【 'request you to inform me why this Increase is considered necessary.

14. . 1. approve the commencement of the Public Laundries (iters 13) if you are satisfied that it can be undertaken by the Public Works Department this year without putting a check upon works already begun, but otherwise it would be better to postpone this work, which though desirable does not seem to be one of Immediate urgency.

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had no doubt their origin in excessive and rash speculations in shares.

"The proposed law would not in any way interfers with legitimate business or speculation, and would be welcomed by all except a few jobbers, speculators and brokers.

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From what I have seen and fearst as Official. Whenever the staff in the Observatory Assignes, I can state that there is a very great - allows it to be gone, it will be necessary to have Ambunt of selling and buying shares which is the most important telegraphle reporting stations not bona fide or legitimate speculation but rash inspected. That is done annually at home. It and

and I should be glad || in eight, years since I had an opportunity of extravagant gambling,

inspecting them and some of them I have not visited at all, after

to see a stop pat to this. The argument that because the law does not exist in England it should not be enacted here, cannot, I submit, be seriously maintained, as the circumstances and extent of the local market differ so greatly, from that of England and afford scope and opportunity for practices which it would perhaps be useless to attempt on a larger field out herenden

At the same time I admit that the objection that it is a restriction on the freedom of contract is one which deserves consideration. It is in my opinion the only serious objection against this BIL

fast for Bangkok by the Scottish Oriental Co. AMONGST the passengers who left here on the 3rd steamship Loe Sox was Mr. Chesney Duncan, for the past thirteen months a member of the reportorial staff of this journal, and well known throughout the colony as the energetic and Indefatigable Honorary Secretary of the British Mercanule Marine Officers' Association, an institution which mainly owed lis foundation and practically, owes its existence to his to join the staff of the Bangkok Times, and unceasing efforts, Mr. Dancan goes to Bangkok with a fait show he is certain to distingaleh himself in his new sphere of action. He bears a historic name, being the son of Colonel Chesney Duncan, R.A., and nephew of General Sir George T. Chesney, K.C.Bourable the Secretary of State for the Coloudes C.S.I., Military Secretary to the Governor of India; but it is more on his own abilities than in connection with the proposed Share Sale Re to illustrious antecedents that Mr. Duncan will gulation Bill, and a copy of the Secretary of Eave to rely in Bangkok, and Judging by what State's despatch in reply? he has accomplished both la Kores and Hos directed to the result of the enquiry into the Has the attention of the Government been kong in the cause of enlightened progress, his advent in Siem, a rapidly tising and flourishing / cause of the death of the engineer and fire Protection Ordinance, 1891." He said that there amounting to $24,000, (which should have been relief and protection of private Individuals who i asterisk izsuaˇthe best telegrams. A summary

man belonging to the steam launch which country, should prove of material assistance to the enlightened King and his leading statemen, rider added to their verdict by the jury was blown up on the 7th May, and to the who are striving with might and main to secure

to the effect that all launches plying in to the people the priceless privilege of fees and enlightened government. We understand that Hongkong harbour, whether for passenger the members of the local British Mercantile traffic or otherwise, should be compelled to Marine Officers' Association Intend presenting undergo a periodical survey, and if so will the their late Secretary with a testimonial in Goremment state whether it is intended to recognition of his services to a good cause, and legislate rendering compulsory periodical surveys It is greatly regretted that this could not have of all launches in Hongkong waters ? been done before Mr. Duncan left for Bangkok majesty's Government directing the Colonial With reference to the telegram from Her however, better late than never. We wish our ¡late confrère every succels in his new career,

Government to stop all public works not yet and feel sure that if he does not succeed it will begun, and referred to in Sir G. W. des Voeux speech in this Council on 5th March last, will not be for lack of trying hard.

the Government lay on the table a copy of the WHERLOCK & Co.'s freight market report, dated despatch or despatches received from the Right Shanghai, 29th May, saysThe past fostalght Honourable the Secretary of State in confirmation has not brought forth any new features in eur of the sald telegram, or having reference to the freight market homewards and business for this stoppage of public works to which the Colony The remaining business was the second read. time of the year la exceptionally dull. Steamers Is not already actually committed?

Ing of the Bill entitled "An Ordinance to pro- on the berth have experienced great difficulty in Will the Government state whether the vide against abuses connected with the erection securing cargo and will leave with a lot of their Memorandum dated the 20th December, 1890, of Public Latrices second reading of the Biff. allotted space vacanty on the other hand rate addressed to His Excellency the Oficer Ad entitled "An Ordinance to further amend The South are reported to have advanced considerably ministering the Governmentof Hongkong, algaed Public Health Ordinance, 1887," and third read- so they should have no trouble in filling up. From by all the Undfficial Members of Council and dealing of the Bill entitled "An Ordinance to Wahu to Whampos.-There is no impraveing with the Estimates for Fablic Works provide for the making of a table of fees to be ment to note in this direction grain is Extraordinary for 1891, was forwarded to the taken in connection with the grant of Letters plentiful but unfavorable advices from Canton Secretary of State for the Colonies and If an on Patent in this Colony." deter shippers from making offers for tonnage. what date? Have any communications been

The Council then adjourned until the 19th fast. From Nagaifki to Shanghal.—In the absence received from the Secretary of State on the of any enquiry rates of freight have further subject of that memorandum, and if so will the declined. For London, pra ususi potis of call Government lay copies of them on the table? and Suer Canal:-The berth is now occupied by The Acling Colonial Secretary in reply to the the C. S. M. S. N, Co. steamship Denfa and the first question lakd on the table the following 10. S. S. Co. Zaartes, to all respectively about telegram :—“London 13-2-91. – Governor, Hong- sed and and proximo, the P. and O. Co. steamer kong. Referring to my Despatch No. 241 last Brindisi, an extra boat, is due shortly and will year increased contribution should be paid as leave about rath idem. From Hankow to soon as possible. Telegraph reply. Knutsford," London, The steamship Meruns left on the With respect to the third, Afth, and sixth morning of the 24th: Instant with a fall esrgs at questions, he said that papers had been laid

passed outwards scalp Danisd! In reply to the second £4 and

8.20 p.m. on the table (pablished in another column.) The steamship Telasson and.

to had been former to sail 31st instant. For New York visi suspended by order of the Secretary of State, rusual ports of call and Suts Canali-Advices of | upon receipt of further instructions, it, was not the total loss of the steamship Albony en the considered expedient to discover the contents, or Japan coast left the berth vacant, but ar ange any portion thereof, of the telegram referred to ments for a steamer to take her place wars As regarded the fourth question the attention of speedily made and the steamship Pathan fe due the Government had been direc'el to the finding here to-morrow with almost her entire sps of the jury; the Coroner's despatch, and the rider allotted to this port taken up, she will meet with added by the jury, had been forwarded to the immediate despatch. Via the CapeThe Attomey General, who at once communicated British barque Casara has been laid on the heath with the Harbor-Master on the subject with a and a very considerable quantity of cargo her view to incorporating in the new Shipping Bl already been booked at 261, për ton.

some provision requiring a periodical survey of FOR LONDON.

the steam-launches in these waters. Tess Horse Farre Rex.

Capacity Power,

'20:30 1,714 753 4007

“.... MISCELLANEOUS.

LORD enutsford on THE

ESTIMATES.

15, I-approve the proposed erection of Police Station at Quarry Bay (item 10) and am glad to observe that the Estimate has been reduced from 87,000 (as voted last year) to $7.000

16, I will deler sanctioning the reconstruction of the Governor's Peak residence (item, 25) pending the receipt of the plans and estimates of the proposed new building.

to its urgency, I withhold my sanction from 17. in the absence of further information as (tem z8) Shaukiwán Market Extension, which might probably be postponed without serious inconvenience.

18. I am glad that your Government adopted the recommendation of the unofficial members of the Council to omit the proposed vote for new The following interesting despatch to Governor Government Offices and Law Courts, as not der Voeux from Lord Knutsford, Secretary of being of pressing necessity and I have to express State for the Colonies, dated the 29th February my concurrence generally in the views set for and dealing with the Hongkong Estimates forward in the memorandum of the 20th of 1891, was laid before the Legislative Council on December, especially as regards the desirability of pushing to completion all works already the gth fast.

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt begun, before entering upon any new works

December last, submitting the Esipates for

the impropriety of sanctioning and commencing any works before detailed drawings and estimates 1891.

3. I am glad to observe that these Estimates have been prepared. have been drawn up in general accordance with the model form, which accompanied my circular despatch of 4th February, 1890, with one exception, namely, that "temporary offices" and offices "filled by persona.......ineligible for the ordinary superannuation allowance" are not distinguished as such, but on this point I will address you hereafter.

12. With reference to the twelfth paragraph of my annual report for 1889); (dated the 24th Apr, 1890), the First Assistant was away on sick leave since the middle of November 1889, and has not yet returned, and the Second Assistant resigned a few weeks later in order to accept a better appointment elsewhere. I was then left without assistants and had to do the work as well as it could be affected with the help of two young Chinese Clarks. Under the cl cumstances i endeavoured before all to secure The Secretary of State wired on October gth the continuation of the hourly readings And In reply to your despatch, No. 317 of and meteorological observations without break. How September, if unofficial members of Council far. I have succeeded in this can be gathered from posed bill being a private measure and allowing last decimal of the figures is as nearly accurate #gire. I have no objection so that the pro- the following pages. I do not claim that the both official and unofficial members perfect fresa in previous years, but all tabulations and cal dom of action, it has every "prospect" of "being, 'culations" akve been made in duplicate by fairly fought out on its merits, 7

Chiness in my presence, and carefully checked. brand dang laro an || Is in proper to mention that the credit for this is

THE HONGKOng observatORY.

PROFESSOR DOBERCK'S REPORT. MADE

The annual report of the Director of the Hang- köng Observatory was laid on the table at the meeting of the Legislative Council held on the 5th

lars reported both fully engaged at 450 the as the despatches on he said that of Mr. Fleming's despatch No. 449 of 2215 unless absolutely necessary, and also as regards 'j inst. ' It'ia,dated May 9th, and says Somalia labai

3,400 3,200

NOUA RARE PRIVILEGE.

Mr. Keswick gave notice of his fatention to ask, at the next meeting, if it was a fact that the members of the Législative Council were pre cluded from either voting for or nominating any candidate for election to the Sanitary Board, although such members were ratepayers?

THE BHARE BROKING BILL Mr. Whitehead-Hays I your Excellency's permission to move the resolution of which I have given you a copy!

The Acting Governor-I received notice short while ago from the hon. member asking leave to move a resolution, but za due notice has not been given i think it would be more in

I agree fa the opinion expressed in the con cluding portion of this memorandum as to the importance of consulting the unofficial members of Council before committing the colony to any serious expenditure.

19. Subject to the above remarks and to the remarks contained in my separate despatch as to the increased salaries, I approve the Estimates

- I have the honour to be, etc.,

KNUTSFORD

MR. KESWICK'S SHARE BILL.

3. The proposed Estimates of Expenditure for the current year. would, If the Extraordinary Warks were carried- out in fall, almost exhaust the existing balances, and it seems desirable that, the state of the finances of the Colony should be carefully re- viewed at an early date, so as to ascertain whether the necessity of resorting to a loan is within measurable distance. If, in the course of the year, such necessity should become ap parent, you should report fully to me some period before the naval period for drawing up next year's Estimates.

4 As regards the details of the general scheme of increased salaries on the present Estimates, I will address you separately in reply to Mr. Fleming's despatch, No. 438 of 15th December last. I approve the proposed increases of emolu ment to Chinese members of the Fire Brigade referred to in the 3rd paragraph of the despatch

5,0

On the and of last September Mr. Francis Fleming, the Officer Administering the Govern- ment, addressed the Secretary of State on the subject of Me. J. J. Keswick's proposed Ordinance to make time transactions in shares illegal in this Colony, favorably recommending the measure. Mr. Fleming wrote to

I have the honour to inform your lordship that at the last meeting of the Legislative Council before the recess Bill was introduced by Mr. J. J. Keswick to amend the law in respect of the ale of shares in Companies registered under other joint stock companies,

My sixth volume of observations was pubilaked last month, and I have the honour to submit herewith my seventh volame in manuscript as ordered by his Excellency the Governor. Ir enli tains the observations made in 1890 nove 2. Early last year his Excellency appointed' Commission to enquire into the worlding of this meetings, laited the Obserritory at my rest, Observatory, The Commissioners held several and then submited a reports i bandagens

greatly, dus, to Mr. Ho Toshang, who also read the proof-facets of the "Observations made in 1859." He has since been promoted to be Second Aastant, and at the dats of writing this report the monthly weather reports are ready for preta op to date.

13 It proved impossible to find suitable acting" fstanta locally, except in so far as an Electrical cer," after a month's training, was able to the tese-service and to drop the time. ace July last. The ball had not been appeal for half a year. However the ball has Redly kopped since, when he either through ealth or other causes did not attended. Ha holds another position In

inly occases his done. Hongkong, which dropping of the time ball the duty of the First Assistant. The

charge of Colonel Tomline's Observatory at

lives are ateless for such work

Mr.JF Plummer, formerly Astronomer, In

They strongly recommended a pitch lariés Orwell. Park, who is so favourably known from annual expenditure and stated that!

staff that has been found to be essential'

wook! Af

cometry joined me on the is

Involva a greater outlay, and the mildal nost

cannot

be estimated at under thirteen thousand

Chief Assistant.

Roberts, Chief Assistant in thi

dollars a year ƒ or, neatly, twice tko, sum cow f3dollarniones, is carrying "out the

Analysts of the hourly readings of tides in 1857 and 1888 taking into account fire hilberto omitted termin, for which he has now. "adapted, "his"tide-prédicting "machine; Ha

Intend to use the results for fetare predictions of eldes tu tila port. The tide-gaugo, has been handed over to the Inspector General of Chinece Customs, who desires to have ʻIt worked. för A year endwo in each one of the treaty ports of China 176 would of course have been impossible to work it properly here after the assistants went awayyiban

and Suez Canal:-The O. S. 5. Cò. steanaship' | order for the hon. member to more the suspen-:),under acknowledgment, but I would obfervo the Hongking Companies Ordinances and in but only seven thousand dollars have been speech on the same data separately) are avaliable,"

Mayuntu 17rlamon zava 1,500 | 400--3,700 Flintshire ................................. 1871 650 4,500 Benledi...

1,454 350 3400 FOR ODESSA. Niint Novgored i 1,832 300 4.500 Ordi 2,400 938 Petersburg 1,103 130 Moskva.io 2,244 500 Rusila 1,569 300 Sikk................................................... 1,736 500. 4,300 Ghares

*350 4.400 Glinearry

1,956 $30 4,750 *Departures for London via usual ports of cell

Bellerophon via Swatow and C. 8. M. 5, N. Co sion of the Standing Orders before introducing that it would perhaps have been better, in view Katiews 17th insight. Glen line steamship his resolution to make it perfectly in order. of audit requirements, if the distribution of this Glenorchy 24th Inst. Departure for New York Mr. Whitehead then moved, Mr. Ho Kai additional sum had been shown, instead of being lo Suez Canal N. Quotations are Naga seconded, and it was agreed, that the Standing voted as a lump sum under the designation of saki to Shanghai, ŝago per ton of cosi nett, far Orders Ed suspended in order that a motion "Extra pay to Chinese $1,170. both steamers and sailing: vessels. Shanghal might be made without due notice.

S I notice, with regret, that the vote for the to London, P., & O. & N. Co. 358. per 203, Mr. Whitehead-I beg to move that the Audit Department was objected to by the un 451, od, through to New York Shanghrit Stockbrokers Association be heard by their official members of the. Council, but I consider London, O. S. 8. Co. 311.-64, per ton, 40s, ei. counsel on the sebond reading of the Bill enthat the recent discovery of serious defalcations through to New York. Shangbai to Londen, titled "an Ordinance to amend the law with me in the Post Office showed the need for efficient C. SM. S. N. Co. 321. 6d. per ton, 40%.: od spect to sales of Share of Companies registered audit, and that the system lately, Introduced through to New York. Shanghai to New York, under the Companies Acta 1865 to 1886 and of affords the best security against losses and 40s. per ton for braid and general ca120 other joint stock Companies, I would explain irregularities and I do not doubt that when it has Newchwang to Amoy 24 cents per pical. Now that my object in wishing this motion to be had a fair trial, this will be recognised in

the vote

spent. They also stated that "te kender the working of the Observatory, properly effective there should be three European assistant least, one of whom shoull haven Beddent experience and knowledge to permit charge of the Observatory, whe there should also be three Portuguese clerks." They also stated that it would subest that a great deal of metal work in Cone Wythe Observatory, but that the beneficial outcome this work is diminished by the inadequate aum that has been allowed to be spent yearly The 16. During 1890, in addition to meteorological annual cost of the upkeep of the Observatory registers keeps at about so stations on shore, the was originally estimated at ten thousand dollars, fogs of 42 different vessels containing entries on 694 days (counting those made on board different An Observatory Inessentially one's of those 2, The Bill I was only read a first time as the Institutions on which, I tharasghly good result Border of Excellency the Admital, Came of all meteorological matter was too important a one to dispose of are to be obtained, a considerable sum of money mander-in-Chief copy o until it had received the careful attention of mast be spent." They also strongly recommanded observations made on board man-of-war belongs Government and until the community in general that "European assistants, should bot obtained ing to the squadron stationed in these sear are had been given" an opportunity to express an from England as speedily as possible and that went to the Observatory, and Commanders of opinion upon it.

fm?) in the meantime, temporary assistance should Foreign vessels of war send such observa- tions_su"are requested "direct," or through the Mr. Keswick explained that the object of be locally obtained.". Ja Wes113K ASAMANCE the proposed Ordinance, which is based on the 4A lengthy, memorandum from Major Commodore-18-log-books or extracts of Imperial Act, 80 Vie, ch. 88, commonly called General H. S. Paimer, Rajwho wrote the log booksewers received through the Harbour Leaman's Act, in to do away with what are known original report which subsequently led to the Master's Office, 31 direct from the Captains ce as time bargains, a contracts to sell for delivery establishment of the Observatory, was append Owner and a were copied on board ship in the harbour, Him the information concerning at a future date shares the seller does noted to the Commissioners reportaald possess at the time,

5. The suggestions submitted by the Com typhoons

hai to Whampoa 13 cents per pleal. Seule Council will agree to permit the Stockbrokers'

of $19.000 for late, more particularly during the course of last report has been printed by order of the the fortnight :-Biliish rhip Association to be heard before the Cornell If electric granatch under acknowledgment, on in this Colony which this Ordinance if passed, en dute, thus, Shanghai to New York will cradle them to give the necessary, fastrac paragraph of of ¿Canara,

E shall be glad to be informed, how far it is would in all probability go far to proventa 2000 Jention via Hongkong, private terms. - Diacog- tions, and thur:save time. Joi

aged vessel in poets Annie E. Which Billie M. Ho Kal beg to second the resolution, proposed to substitute electricity for gas in 4. The principal if not the only, objection to ship, 1847 tóns register, Cyoruz, British barque, and in doing so I must state that in view of lighting the streets; in what parts of the town, the Ordinance is that it would be a restriction on 18,091 tons register 1: "Kelving British barqu», what has been said I think that when an - and what will be the total increase in the annual the freedom of contract, but I venture to think

main Ordnance of such an important nature expenditure, if any, ultimately involved. 9 tons register:

6. Beloru

3.

There can be no doubt that there has been of Imskalós have not yet been cairied out but thei: ):7et complain 1880 and 1890 is by no meaIES"

chwang to Bwatow 35 conte per' plcul. Shang- brought forward to-day is to sayo tima, ‹ flf, the Hongkonction Artets, referred to in year, a great deal of gambling in shares carried and they have thus la: some!!

il

that an freedam of contract exists-only for the

Excellency, general approva are fully carried out, the work vatory will be greatly ap mediate practics, utility will be tended

6. I have to recom

ernor

[17]

437, regret to have to report that the magne | to hit was twice broken. Into and all the bekan Hooks and fastenings broken' and stolen. For tunately the magnetic - (ustruments had been kenloved-Belor” this happened, pinggan

The rest of the reports consists of statistical zablas, which are too lengthy for reproduction