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-LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL,

2nd inst.

A meeting of the legislative Council was held in the Council Chamber this after. Boon. Present:-His Excellency,the Officer. Administering the Government, Sir Henry May, K.C.M.d. Colonel G.W.R. St. John (Cem manding the Troops), Has. Mr. AM. Thomson, (Colonial Secretary), Hon. Mr. O. Mcl. Merser (Colontal Treasurer), Hon. Mr. W. Chatham, C.M.G. (Director of Public Works), Hou, Mr. F. J. Badeley (Captain Superintendent of Police), Hon. Mr. A. W: Brewin (Registrar 'General), Hon. Mr. Heary Keswick, Hon. Dr. Ha Kol, C.M.G., Hồn. Mr. Wel Yük, c.m G, Hon. Mr. E. Osborne, Hon. Mr. E. A. Hewett, Hon. Mr. Murray Stewart, and Mr. C. Clementi (Clerk, of Councils).

MINUTES,

The minutes of the last meeting were read and confirmed.

FINANCIAL, MINUTES, ;.

Tha Colonial Secretary, laid' on the table Financial Minutes Nos. 40 1842. It was agreed that they be referred to the FinageaCommittes.

FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT. The Colonial Secretary laid on the table Finance Committee, 17oport No. 5. It was adopted by the Council,

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THE HONGKONG TELEGRAPH SATURDAY JUNKME

was amlably hinted by supporters of the off, cial view. There is a saying that "ons man with an idea in his head is in danger of being. considered a madman: two men with the same. idea in common may be toolish, but can hardly be mad :leg mos sharing an iden begin tojact, succeeded in drawing attention. But that was a bugdtod draw attention." In this case vinely all their success. The Government refused to be guided by the expression of opinion referred

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PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE, The report of the l'ablic Works Committee Standard Oil Co. was named as 100. (No. 1 of 1910) was confirmed,

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PAPERS,

obrusluponthem, as has been suggested, bat invited in boib inimaces. In spite of it, on in- tention of proceeding with the sale has been au nounced in an official letter, and that is the last that has been baard of the matter. That is the position which we, who deplore the decision, have to face: We are powerless to prevent it. We must just try to inake the best terms we. ander the circumstances. The terms proposed by my resolution would at least afford a tacasute of protection. This I conceive to bo our need. Let ma indicate the nature of it. No one is likely to forget that $30 a loot was mentioned as the upset price proposed. From the way it was dealt with in His Excellency the Governor's speech the community inferred that these was at least a probability of securing it. The Unofficial Members were solemnly warned againat voting for my résolution. They were told they would be postponing to the Greek Kalends many acoded public works. The in- ference was that the Government bad sume thing, almost as good as a firm offer in hand. applicant and it was generally assumed that they ware prepared to pay this price for it The community jumped to that conclusion. For myself, I think that this was astural under thecircumstances: It is now said that the so-call- fed application was merely a request to know.the price which the Government would sell The price having been named, no intimation, no hint even, was given thatthe Standard Oil Co, was prepared to pay it. I'am credibly informed that they are not prepared to pay it. I have the local The Hon. Mr. M. Stewart Your Ex-manager's leave to state the fact, ere gud now' cellency,frise to move that, being patting up According to him, the only architectural con to muction the plot of Crown Land situated to disons which would make the purchase at that the north of the new Law Courts, the Govern figure a business propositioninust allow of ment shall refer the proposed conditions of sale a building tea storços bugh. I do not imagine. to this Council. In doing so, 1 bave no desire that the Government costemplate allowing that to prolong a controversy, The exact opposite Tod's it now appears that the six lakhs of dol Is my aim. My aim is to bring is to an cod,—at lars, of which so much has been made, was after least for the time being. I propose a truce.

alla mere subjective illusion-a sort of mirage. If I could have step my way to achieve this When dde coucs to think of it there was au itz of object by asking questions, and thus have saved areality about it from the first. Its purchasing the Council from the calamity "of a speech, paser was magical. It was to pay for public should have been glad: 1 could not see my

works costing: temes as much. It was way because maslots of opinion met me at like something auf of the Arabian Nights, every turn and these are taboo in official Many people had quie, a 'good time spend

wincings. It made the Colony feel quite rich,

The Colonial Secretary, by command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government laid on the table the following pspors

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Report of the Harbour Master for 1909. Reparts of the Captain. Superistendent of Police and of the Superintendent of Fite Brigade for 1909.

"THE FINEST SITE"

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of selling the site is at the moment dead,

Uder the circumstances of the case, and and I have no ambition to slay this slain. But as it was understood that defendant's ship was I do not fedi sure that it may not come to life saving the next day, thus allowing no time for again, and I am duxious to provide against this san fermenting of the cane, His Excellency de- eventuality. Accordingly, i move the resolucided to remit the poualty, otherwise the Ma- tion.

gistrate would have re-board the case.

bos, Mr. Wei Yuk seconded the resolu tion.

'THE GOVERNOR'S REPLY.' His Excellency said that he wished to say a few words is answer to the hon. member's speech. It was not in the power of the Government to give to any ladividual or dedicate to the public one inch of land without the sanction of the Secretary when Mr. Stewart said that the Governor, Sir of State for the Colonies. Therefore, Henry Blake, must have merely expressed a wish when he spoke about the area being re- served the speaker was right. It was only with das sanction of the Secretary of State that the Government of the Colony could dedicate lend to public purposes. There was no doubt that Sir Henry Blake did entertain such a hope, but it was impossible to identify whether

was the Government " of the time or

whether it was the Director of Public Works with the silent approval of the Government of the day who expressed the desira to reserve the area. With regard to Sir Frederick Lugaru's statement, 1.1 Excellency had referred to considerable portiva of the whole area in res

pect of which Sir Henry Blake expresied a wish io dedicate the area for a public gardno. The whole ofSir Henry Blaken's wish couldnot beful- filled but only a portion of it. He did not know whether the Staqslard Oil Company became frightened of the broadside of the hun. member (Logbler) or a certain lady who wrote to the Press, but he knew that they did not pursue their inquirien any longer about the particular area. Therefore, be felt sure that members of Council would appreciate his position when be said that it was quite limpossible for him to accept the resolution, because by doing that be would be binding the Govern ment for so lodeficits period (Applause). . If auy further negotiations took place, he could sure Council that be would oot keep them i ignorance. la conclusion, he wished to defend the Executive Council from the charge of a want of artistic taste, ........

Mr. Hewett said that he didnotintend to speak that afternoon until he heard His Excellency's remarks. He held no brief for anybody and spoke solely for himself. There was one thing

3. The Opium Ordinance as it stands forms the basis of a contract with the Opium Farmer. Magistrates already have discretion to infl'et penaltios and further legislation is not pe- cessary.

SUPPLY BILL

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HONGKONG, LIQUOR TRAFFIC...

OPERATION OF THE LIQUORS ORÐInan &

,and inst. The report of the superintendent of Imports and Exports Office, on the liquor traffic for the poslod from the 17th September to the 1st December, 1939, which was laid before the Legislative Council this afternoon, is an follows :-*

Ordinance No. 27 of 1909 to provide for the collection of duties upon intoxicating liquors The Colonial Treasurer moved the first read-i passed on the 17th September aty p.m. ing of a Bill epulled An Ordinance to authorize and steps were immediately taken to make thres Enndred and fourteen thousand five hun the appropriation of a supplementary sum of provision for the immediate collection of such dred and thiny-three dollars and thirty-twocessed to defray the charges of the year 1999.. The Colonial Secretary seconded, Bill read a first time,

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The Bill is as follows:--

farther provision for the public service of the Whereas it has become necessary to make Colony for the year 1909, in addition to the charge upon the revenue of the Colony for the service of the said year already provided for:

Be it enacted by the Governor of Hongkong, with the adv.ce and consent of the Lägislative Council thereal, pa follows:--

& sum of three hundred and fourteen thon sand five bundred and thirty-three dollars and thirty-two copis is hereby charged upon the revenue of the Colony for the service of the year 1999, the said sum so charged being ex pended as hereinafter specified; that -is":to Fay:

Jovenue.

and began operation on the same evening that the Ordinanch was passed by boarding 'and searching all incoming "siver steamers, a West River boat being the first to ba boarded.

The Preventiva Sarvice under the superin, officers and 26 Chinese searchers; and the tendent's control is composed of European Imports and Exports Opium and suger Office was organized at a revenus office-coping with the traffic in the three commodities-liquors, oplum and, sugar, we

A Preventive Service was at once institut-

These premises having proved too congested an additional offics 'adjoining the Harboor Office is now under construction and will be ready for occupation during the current mouth A fast launch was purchased for the Preven tive Service afloat. The Water Police assist this service by a morning search to the east word of all junks arriving in the Eusters Junk Anchorage, and the preventive launch with Post Office ......

..........$ 62,154.99 boat in tow boarding all jaoks arriving in the Harbour Master's Department 14,652.85 Western Junk Anchorage, Observatory.........

3. The revenue collected on liquors import 936.03 Miscellaneous Services

45.31.55ed into the Colony, during the peiled under Police and Prison Departments.....478.16 review amounted to:- Public Works Extranidipary... 186,853.75

European liquors $32,603.61 Pensionsrite

.6,035-39

n 64,490 5/

4,750.02 $114.533-32

$101,844,20

Tolah..

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BILLS PASSED. The following Bills were read a third time and passed on the motion of the Attorney General, seconded by the Colonial Secretary:

The Bill satitled Ad Ordinance to amend the Pharmacy Ordinance, 1958,

The Bill entitled an Ordinance to amend the Malicious Damage Ordinance, 1855.

The Bill entitled An Ordinance to amend the Opium Oudisavce, 1909;

POSTPONED.,

Chinese wines Licences issued for ag wars

houses at $150

the liquor ixaffic from the 17th September to the 4. Table 1 gives a return of the working of 31st December, 1909.

5. The quantity of liquors and wizes in stock when the Ordinance came into force will some. what delay the revenus attaining estimated figures, but it is anticipated that as this old stock is liquidated the collection will show a marked locroase,

HIGHLANDS, AND LOWLANDS.

POLICY OF LAUNCHING AYER KUNING COMPANY.

A correspondant writes to the Straits Times. as follows with reference to the method of raising working capital recently adopted by the. directors of the Highland and Lowlanda Rubber - Company*~~

Do you consider the scheme whereby a portion of Ayer Kuning is sold to anpiker company in the Interests of the d... com- pany? I should have thought, considering the high capital of Highlands and Lowlando, that it would have been wiser to raise deben- ture and develop Ayer Kuning to the utmost possible extent and thereby reduce the capital cosi par acre tomach a basis thatthe futuro was) absolutely safe. As things now stand' the capital of the old company remains the same, gamely £310,000, and the acreage of planted: rubber is reduced by 1,533 mcrOS.

of considerable general interest, and we would The question ralsed by our correspondant fa answer it as follows, taking perhaps more e because the situation of the rubber industry #practical than a theoretically correct view just newis abnormal (---

THE SCHEME. Highlands and Lowlande Company has an issued capital of 310,000. The directors stated that all this capital has been called up and expanded. A year ago it was considered expedient to lasue debentures in order provide additional working capital." That opinion, was abandoned in favour of the following plan 1.

The formation of a subsidiary company, to b's, known as the Ayer Kuning (F.M. S.) Rubber Company, with a capital of £140,000 in shares by transferring to that new company 6,743 Incres of land of which 1,532 acres is planted with Para rubber. The purchase price of the property assigned to the new company was fixed at 116,660 (payabls at to £15,000 in cash and as to £91,656 by the allotment to the vend: rt or their nomidens of 31,656 Tally påld abares of the company. Reserve skaros num- bored, 11,334.00

The conditions were that 77,000 of the shares be issued to shareholders of Highlands and Lowlands at par in the proportion of 1, share in Ayer Kaning for every complete 4 shares held in Highlands and Lowlands. Any of the shares not taken up on these terms word to be taken pat par by the Highlands, and Lowlands Company itself. The share part of the purchase. price was for distribution free among Highlands. and Lowlands shareholders.

6. The godowas of the Hongkong and Kow. foon Wharf and Godown Co, Ld, and those pital as follows:-

, kuswals to questions. I was reminded of thating, as a gambler spænds his imaginary therapacity of the Treasury. (Os account of the | Medipancé tó amsad the Tramway Ordinance, the Hol's Wharf hays bees bonded as King's

Mr. Stewart said he was sorry to have to isil et He was sorry further ramatka on Council

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The second, reading of the Bill ensi led an

1907, was bol proceeded with.

The Council adjourned sins árs.

FINANCE COMMITTEE. "

E

ADJOURNMENT."

It was

tỏ which he wished to draw attention and that was that the Standard Oil Company were not frightened of anybody and it appeared to him that the only thing they were frightened of was

kou, member's position at the Council table, lact by Your Excellency when I gave notice of my last series of questions on this subject. With the fading of this faancial comst dis the rest of his remarks were loaudible to a You cut off the tail of the series-the sting was appears, it may be thought, the ared for fursection of the Pressmed). in the tail-because an answer to it would havether controversy. But it must not be forgoileb His Excellency asked Mr. Stewart if he wish. involved as expression of opinion. Oddly en-that the Governor has full power and a perfected to withdraw his resolution, ough, in Lowering the other questions, the Hoa- right to name any upsci price he pleases. There qurable the Colonial Secretary expressed what is no guaranies that he will not so exercite it.

A meeting of the Fintact Committee was I venture to regard as a mere opinion, when he

that be had create an impression in His Ex-held immediately alter in eeting of Council, If he finds that he cannot get $jo a foot be may

· said that it was not formerly the intentips of the

decide to take Sag or even $ :o; in fact, there isceliency's mind that he found fault with the the Colonial Secretary picsiding. Government to keep the site. Well, the bis

bo lingit to his discretion in the matter at all, architectural appearance of the new Law agreed that the following votes be recommend

His Excal- tory of the past is capable of diverso interpreta so far us I am aware. My resolution of accepted Courts, but he had it from

ed for, approval by the 'Council- wis desirable that tions. It all depends upon the historian's polat would act as a check. To effect appeal to leacy himself that it of view. From my point of view, I seem to see Your Excellency to waive these particular the dome of the new budding should be that the Gdvorament did formerly intend to powers in this particular cast. The only

concealed from view from the direction of the retain the site, but that recently, owing to assurance which has so far bean given

harbour. If anyone took the trouble to read the financial difficultjes lato which we have relates to these artistic considerations which the speeches at the opening ceremony in cou-, 1 have had the tementy to ddvance, in been thrust by latter-day developments of

section with the buildings, it would be made' The assurance is that the abundantly clear to them that the im. the opium policy, they have changed their this Council minds. I fancy that Sir Henry Blake, for public any rely upon the Governor in Council pression crested in the public mind at the time was distinctly one which assured the one, would support, this interpretation of to impose architectural conditions of sile which the facts. In his anxiety to prove continuity

will preserve the beauty, digaily, and symme people that the area would be reserved of policy, the Hon. the Colonial Secretary try of Royal Square, 1 tiusi i may be excused solely for public purposes. The Director threw over Sir Henry 'Bláke and the Hon, lor saying that it fills us with but little con-

of Public Works in fact actually said "The the Director of Public Works, whoid categorical fdence. I desire to speak, with the greatest

area will, therefore, not be built upon," He

· statement was reduced to, the status of a mere respect of the Executive Council, intend an did not wish to embarrass His. Excellency la echo of the hope expressed by his chief

the position in which 'His Excellency fonud disrespect in purating out there is no autecedent Hers want to dat as It was in a debate probability that its judgment ou artistic mattera

himself but he wished to bind the Government in this Council in July 1903 that the hope was will always be just. expressed by Bir Henry Blake that the ground qualification for membership of the Executive in front of the Club would never be built upon,

Council is administrative ability, and admin. He would not have so described the area whereistrative ability does not necessarily carry with

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no reason

take it that the

It is not

it architectural good taste. Not only is there expect that the Governor in Council should display it, there is the evidence of our senses, appealed to in many checrio s in the Colony, to prove the contrary. necessary to go outside this controversy to find: a case in point. In one of the letters which 1 had the honour to receive on the subject from the Honourable the Colonial Secretary, it was advanced as a reason for building on the sitê

SUPREME COURT CLERK. | A sum of six hundred dollars in aid of the vate, judicial and Legal Departments, Supreme Court, personal emoluments," addı. tional 3rd grade clerk..

VICTORIA-DRITISH SCHOOL.

A sum of eight pounds and eleven pence sterling (£8. 05. d) in aid of the vote, Education, A.-Department of Director of Education, other charges, Victoria British School, books.

STAIPO·LAND OFFICE, A

The effect of the scheme was to divide cap.

Highlands and Lowlands'receives

41

In sharor

In cash

£$1,556 45,000

96,665

Ayer Kuning receives

„Ja working capital 37,000

In reserve sharon" 11,334

warehouses and the following is a list of the licensed warehouses:- No. 1 Messrs. A.-S. Watson & Co. Lt.

Alexandra Building. No. Messrs. Caldbeck, McGregor & Co.....

15 Queen's Road Central, No. 3 Messia. Jebion & Co.... Qatchick Streat. No. 4 Moss. H. Price & Co., Ld

10 Queen's, Road Central. No. 5 Messia. Ki Fung Hong

zo Connaught Road West. -No, 6 Mesurs, Radecket & Qopadjaina

8 Burrow Street) Wanchai, No. 7 Messrs. Shiu Wo Hong

366 Des Vaux Road West. No. 8 Massrs. Wa Kes. Hang

70 Connaught Road West. No. 9 Messrs. Ya Kas Hong

-310 Ku Lana.

No, to Messer, Kwong Sang Hougoumon Na. 11 Mosirs, Chu Wing On

32 Wing Lok Street 22 and 24 New Market Street, No. 12 Mesir, Hang Lam Ubong

at Possession Street,

to theis promise and for that reason ho bad' no i Extraordinary, extension of Tai Po Land Din No. 14 Messrs. H. Ruttonjee & Sod

intention of withdrawing the resolution.

On the division being taken, all except M. Murray Stewart and wir. Wei Yak, claro,, voted against the resolution, which was thus defeated by a majority of ten distentlonts, not including His Excellency,

NEW ZYPHOON BREAKWATER.

The Hon. Mr. E. Osborne siked the follow- ing questions:-

(a) Whether a contract for its new ly

phoon breakwater has been lol, and if so, what is the contract date for completion of the work 2o -

(8.) If a contract has not been let, what is

the cause of delay in doing so?. (c). On what date did the Home Authori. tios fually approve the plans of the break water?

The Colonial Secretary :-t. (a) A contract has not yet beca let. (b). Proceedings have been somewhat delayed by the difficulty ex perienced in negotiations with the losses of Kowloon Marine Lot 31. Madifications have been made in that portion of the scheme ad joining the above lot, which, it is trusted, will remove these objections. Another cause of delay has bees the unfortunate illaess of Mr. coulton, the Assistant Director of Public Works, who was engaged on the preparation of the plans and specifications and who was obliged to depart for Englaud on the 13th April, loay ing the work incomplets. Matters are boy in a forward stats, and tenders will be called for within three weeks from the present time. (c) On the 28th January, 909.

SIRAITS ANTROPIUM

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A sum of three bandred and twenty dollars and five cents in and of the vite, Public Works, No. 13, Messrs. Caldbeck, McGregor & Co..

8 Queen's Road Central, This was all the business,

4 Wo On Lugd. No.1g Messrs. Kwong Man Tsaung

4 Wilmer Street. No. 16 Messrs, Kwan Tyso

112 Qen's Road Contral. No. 17 Mesira. Lal Wo TSEED

5 Lee Shing Streat, No, 13 Messes. Tio Wo Yatt...

324 and 316 Queen's Rd, Wast. No. 19 The Connaught Aerated

'CONFERENCE.

OUTLINE OF THE BUSINESS TO DE TRANSACTED.

IMPORTANT PROPOSALS,

A corespondent writes to the Stratte „Times that the fourth Anti-Oprym Conference of the Strails and States was to ba beid, at Singapore,tion on Monday and Tuesday, May 30 and 31st, in the Aoli-Upiom Society tall, Middle Road, Dr. Lim Boon Keag, the president, was to be in the chair.There is a large and reprosonia- tive committee and the resolutions to be sub mitted were as follows ¡—

That this conference approves of the action of the Government of the Straits Settle mcula ja abolishing the oplum farm system, and substituting Government castral for the sale of chandu. Proposed by Dr. R. M. Connally, of Ipoh, and seconded by Mr. Lim Seng Hooi, of Penang.

"That this conference again amphasizes the necessity of a compulsory registration of all opium sinckers in the diraits Settlements and its F. M. S., and that the Gavernment be requcated to give effect to this without undue delay. Preposed by Rev. Lan Yip Hoog, Perak, and seconded by Mr. Chu Chang Kay, Kuala Lumpur.

3.-Tast the Government be urged as a mat PUBLIC BATHING PLACES.

ter of the highest importance, in order to pre. The Hon, Mr. E. Osborne asked Will the vent the rising generation from acquiring the Government cause part of the foreshore at ihr habit, to prohibit the registration of new Eastern and Western extremities of the townsmokers immediately after the registration of to be reserved and made suitable as public ||'ail existing smokers is carried into effect. Mr. bathing places?

Lim Choo Boon, Perak, to propose and Mr. W. D, asbdows, Singapore, to second,

the late King's statue now stands. He could not have referred to it thus, because the arrange- ment for its reservation had already, been mads. Already, at that time, the Hong kong Bank had fulfilled their part of the spree. mant, Already their plot had born railed in. The fact that only now, seven years alter, and now only as a result of strenuous effins B the part of the community, are the railings for the Government plot about to be ordered fram bome, zúakes no difference to the argument,in question that it would be an aesthetic ad." which is concerned sately with the other layanlage to hide the "unsightly roofs "the indicated quite unmistakeably by Sir Henry words are not mine the unsightly roaís"- Klake. To sell it as a building site clearly dons of the new Law, Courts. Who passed the interfere with the hops expressed by him.desigas for that building i. Surely the question This was exprenly denied by His Excellency of accepting them was not left solely tothe Hoo. the Governor in the last debate on the subject, ourable the Director of Public Works? Surely He went out of his way to say that the new the Executive Council bad something to say, I proposal did not interfere with the hope imagine the members' mast bave sten expressed by his predecessor That statement elevatibu of the building. Erea from a small was received us gospel is certain quarters and

elevation it should have been seen that those used with some isgümeniative affect by suppor. ronts were wrong; I cadout imagine how aby ters of the Government is the Press. I con- sue could help seeing it, and yet the Governor troverted it to the best of my ability and I am in Council apparently failed to. The Govera glad to have the support of the How. Sec, ment's coolcotion is as admission of failure on His answers to my tailless questions imply the part of the very body that we are invited that the hope expressed and echoed did reter implicitly to trust to impose conditions of sale to the plot which the Government propose to suffer which nothing unsightly can spring up sail. Thus the Haa. the Colonial Secretary on the plot in question. It is not wonderful not only throw over Sir Heary Blake and the

that the roads of the Law Courts should be de Hop, the Director of Public Works; he threw scribed as unsightly by independent critics, over also Sir Frederick Lugard. This is a But it is wonderfol that the Government re- -somewhat curious result of an attempt to er sponsible for the construction of a building tablish a claim to continuous and united, which has so far cost seven lakhs and taken opinion in the ranks of the Government: seven years to erect—seven years during which No one quarrels with changes of policy they have had the designs in contemplation which can be ressouably defended. "Every should now calmly state that the effec. promises One quarrels with reasons that are ob- to be so ugly that the best thing to do is to hide viously unconvincing. Daly one of these it from the barbour view! This, indeed, is "won having been laid bare by my first series of derful out of all whooping Why not have questions, and several mórę remaining to be complained to Sir Aston Webb long ago and dealt with, I thought it might take rather had the rools altered? A failure of this sort- a long time to achieve, by the method not merely admitted but advertised in so aranz. of interpellation, the object. 1 bave in view. ing a mañcer-should strengthen the case in So I was driven back upon the old fashion favour of my resolution. Autocratic powers thus -which has lately become the vogue at ineffectually wielded should be placed on h home of dealing with the subject by re- broader base, They should be shared, as solution. In proposing the present one let far as is practicable, with the public. Ar- me say, first, that I am still of aplaion that chitecture is the one' art in which every. the land is question should be re erved for one has an interest. You need not bother your public purposes. Notwithstanding the defeat head about painting or sculpture; you need of my resolution affirming that opinion, 1 kare never see anything of them unless you please become immensely strengthened in it, I found But if you live in a town you cannot help His Excellency the Governor's argument even seeing the buildings about you, and whether

·less convincing on reflection than it seemed at they are a pleasure to look at er the reveren is the time. I found also that I was not singular everyone's personal concern, Taste in arabi in so regarding it. Contrary to his expecta.incture is just us likely to be the possession of tion, it failed to convert the signatories of the any ordinary "man in the firent" as of any original letter of protest. All but a very few member of the Executive Council, and as it is signed the second letter, stating that having be man in the street" who has to suffer from considered the reasons advanced in this Counsightly roofs-whether on the Courts or on cit in support of the proposal to sell, they were Blake Pier-or other unfortunate results, of still opposed to it. The proposal to sell found mistakes being made, he ought to have an indeed one doughty champton in the Hon. Mr. opportunity of making his voice heard to the Osborne, and the guidance of the local Press choice of a building on the most prominent echoed him in chorus, The only other caten position on our "only public square. It sible supporters of the Government were may be said that the conditions of sale will anonymous latser › writers, who don't count. in any case, hava to be published in the Garrtie, Oas of the guidnamos wrote that only a TECK- and that this will provide opportunity for public lars person" would oppose the sale after discussion. Hal once that is done, I am afraid bearing the reasons advanced in defonce ri it, we shall be told that nothing more cea be done, The Colonial Secretary replied. On them, and on the 31st, 10 am to 12 noon,, with in that case Hongkong must be la a "parlour in the absence of "as overwhelming und 9th May, a woman pamed Tung Li Sz was con- state,” is is largely sun by men than reckless, practically unanimous outcry on the part of the 'victed (a) of unlawful possession of taals 8g of Nearly all the loading British marchants, the British and Chinese population. That, as oplom dross (ander Ordinance as of 1999, sec. managers of all the British banks, and promii we all know, only arises in this Colony tion $5) and (b) of unlicensed importation, of ment members of the legal and medical profes over such matters as plague, pestilence, or tacle 7.6 of a compound of oplum (duder Ordis slous signed the second latter of protest. Ita water' famine. We cannot look for it|nance as of 1999, section 51). She was sentencad bore in all some go sigastures, and, but for the is a matter of this sort which does not enterally to fines amounting to $355.00 or, in default, to hastling isctics of the Government, would have make such a general appeal as the fear of seven weeks imprisonment with bard labour, bords more. This helped to sustain mon in the death, or the sight of idly gaping water. The value of the subject matter of the charge ↑ belief that I had not gone out of my mind; as, tapa). I have såld that I believe the idea, was about $10,00

The Colonial Secretary:It is not posible to give so undertaking to reserve areas in the places indicated, bút should any application be received at the present time lo utilize any por tion of the beach for bathing, it will be con- sidered,

THE OPIUM ORDINANCE.

Pursuant to notice, the Hon. Mr. M. Stewart

asked 1-

L

Water Manufactory St Francis St. Co, Ldaite)

with any of the licensees who are appar 7. Up to the present there has been no frie catly satisfied with the administration of this department as regards the control of these ware- houses and the interpretation of the Ordinance. Qae European excise officer attends to the licensees dealing in Chiness wines and another European officer to the firms dealing in Euro. pean liquors.

8. O distilleries there are the following:- Oriental Brewery .........at Lai Chi Kok, Victoria Distillery...at Kowloon City, Kwong Shing Yuca at Treung Sha Wan. Tung Mi... at 15 Tung Le Wan. Ching Keo Chat Shan Ki Wan, Pan Ch so

at 46 Cross Street,

Kowloon City.

We Chant 26 Balchers Street,

Kennedy Town.

Sheung Wo, On Kes.....at 2 Wo Hing Biteet,

Shan Kl Wan... at 30 Kennedy Street,

Yaumati,

Tia Yatu.........................

Hop Fat ............................ You Long...******** Lun Yick On Tai Sun Lung

Ye Ti............... Cheung On..sensazian Wo Shunat Sun Hing Loong

CORDASTIEL INS

at Chin Wan, New

Territorios..

Tse Klu, Up Long. Now Territorios,

Chauog Chow, New Territories,

Li Saug Ud Kwong Lung Shing... Tio Hidg........................ Kwong Long Chin...... Hop Hillion of dates on liquors from

4. That the Government of the Straits and the F.M.S. be strongly urged to keep special wards in all the hospitals for the isolation and treatment of opium inebriates and to issue istractions to the officers of the medical department to invite opium smokers for trait. mani. Mr. Tay Lay Song, Perak, to propose and Mr. Chao Su Luo, Singapore, to second. 9. The collection

all dimillories in the New Territories was made 5That the Government of the Straits aud F. M. S. be requested to restrict the number of affective from the 1st January, 1910, but pre- licensed chandu smoking shops. The Ker, W. vlous to that date the following distilleries con E. Horier, Ipob, to propose and Mr. Neo Hongtributed the sums shown below :—

fat Chio Hoo, Malacca, to second.

Hop Fat...

5,7963 gallons=5 869 4 1 Wan

6,776

111,039.50-

(Is it the case that on the gibi May the wife of the Jately deceased Assistant Magistrale of the Sua On District, on her way through to Tiantsin with his body, was committed to prison in this Colony, for seven weeks, for having in ber possession small quantity of 6. That this conference requests the Gov. opium dross; some anti-opium pills and a listserpment strictly to prohibit the smoking of Sus Hing fat Do raw opism, value, all told, about 530?

opium and the display of gplum-smoking Im. Lung... Long} plemente in all clubs, theatres, hotels, lodging. Li Sang)

Vuto .or. houses, ricksha depois, and places of a públic and semi-public nature. Mr. Ho Pak Seng, Kwong. Perak, to propose and Mr. Gok Tak Chee, Penang, 10 second,

(ii) Is it the case that His Excellency the cognising the hardship created in this instance Officer Administering, the Government, re by the operation of the Oplum Ordinance; quashed the sentence?

(ii) Will the Government consider the ad vitability of to amending the Opium Ordinance as to provide magisterial discretionary power or other means whereby band fida travellers through the Colony, having in thely possession a little opium for private use, may escape penalties intended for felonious smuggling?,

LUB

Sigg Cheung 17,995 1 Tin Hing...

Chow Kwong Lung

Chan ***

Hung Hing,

--That this conference requests all'em. ployers of labour and heads of business house? to give their pleda to no longer keep opium smokers in their service Mr. Toh Lam, Kuala Lumpur, to propose and Mr. Alfred Las, Bin gapore, to second. The sessions will be: on Total collected in? las goth, xogo a.m. to, p.m. and 2.30 to 4,30, à public mesting at 7 pm.

Thera is to be a bangust for the delegates at the Chiasse Weekly Club; on Monday, and in the afternoon, of Tuesday, they are to be shown over various places of interest,

Every resolation must be proposed and seconded, and, balore being passed. It will be open to spy duly accredited member of the Conference, or member of any recognized Anți, Opium Society, to call for a pell, may

*1,94946°

43.334

140,000

EFFECT ON DIVIDENDS. The effect of the scheme was to previde £17,000 of working capital for the estates, and we may take it soundly that theauthorized capf. tal of the, properties (regarding them as one) has been raised 40 per cent, and the issued capital to per coat. This means that if the total of old capital could care 35 per cent, the total of sew capital will only earn aƐ per cent. →), e. ona›fifth_¡less,... The company had so afternative policy. It might have raised cost of that would have been £5,400 a year: £90,000 by six per cent debentures, and the

The payment of this debenture interest would bave touched the amount available for dividend on the ordinary skarea very alightly. Taking the distribution of profits last year (£106,419) the debanture interest could have been paid and a dividend of 33 instead of 35 per cent. given to the ordinary shareholders."

A PROFIT OF £144,655. Bat look at the other side. The directors of Highlands and Lowlands had it in their power ? to give the shareholders full advantage of the inflated state of the share market and the Inst these are selling at a premium of 30/- each. quotations of Ayor Kuning shares show that This, than, is the position of Bighlands and Lowlands shareholders and Ayer Koning shareholders;

"

Shares they bought "..£.77,000 51,666 Shares they get free

Total

128,666

Premium at 30 par share · 191,999 Total ** 321,065 Less cost

77,000

Prst

244,66; To make a profito) £144,665 while providing absolutely necessary working capital is pretty good business. To effect the same purpose by a'debenture issue would have yisided no profit at all, and would have prejudiced the company from a capitalisation point of view as much if not more than what has been"done, becauJO debgatures ranke before all ordinary capital fa the event of liquidation. It is true, as we have hava prejudiced the future dividend paying polated out, that the debenture issue would

power of the company to a much less deġrao, but the immediate gain ssems to us tooutweigh that didvantage. There is e, principle la | business worth "quoting and it is this: Take profits while you can; the fature may not offer them!.

"LONDON ROBBER SALE.

ANOTHER FALL IN PRICES AND SLACK,

.. DEMAND. AMERICAN BUYERS HOLDING, ALOOF,

London, aath May. The demand at the rubber auction to-day was very irregular and the tone was met "quita satisfactory, prices belog lower,

marked aloofness of American buyers, and

The chist influence appears to have been the

there is some idea that they desire to take advantage of rumours that a great quantity of rubber is held in America and may cause 'A sharp movement when it is offered for main

Not much credence is givan to such rumours in well-informed circles.

Crepe was in most demand.to-day."

The quantity of Plantation rubber offered was .178 tona, of which 156 tons was Malayan....../

Fine and smoked sheet made 9/5 to 10/5 compared with tofó to sifs at last auction,"

Crepe sold at gito to 10/6 against 10/9 10 11/9° at previous sala---Stratis Times,

RUBBER DOWN.

London, May 31, At the auctions raw rubber started hosilat-- ingly and Improved with buying then it relapsed an average of a shilling to eighteen n owing to lack of bidding,"

Penang, May as. New Territories 5,568 gallons 53,898.49

A private wire: received here, sistes that No difficulty prevails in this direction and

rabber is down to 9/2 per pound.” they all comply with the Ordinance; a control on the out-turn of each distillery in effected by

Kuala Lumpor, May 35. one Europeas officer who frequently visits them The London cable 'of the Planter's ́Stores

the

⠀⠀rubber and by Chlause searchers,

13. In conclusion, would remark that while auction following prices at the m safeguarding the revenue by the observance of Plantation Sheet and Biscuit of6, Crapa tha. Ordinance much leniency has had to be 3/9, Scrap 8/9, Bark Scrap 9/6, Betap untiching shown so as to allow one and all to fall in with 744 Rambong 5/3, Fish Chudy Pre W the regulations, but a gradual strict application: Harper, and Company: quote average plintan of the law will man become necesSAIYA 2. tion number ang