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In addition to the dispatch boxes, the brigade possesses four land steam-engines and one floating engine; it also possesses some manual engines which are kept in the various out-villages.

The brigade is so organized and distributed as to form an excellent nucleus for expansion in time of war, by means of civilian volunteers to any extent that may be required, under the supervision of the superintendent.

The naval and military establishments and barracks are in addition well supplied with their separate fire-engines, &c., which could be utilized in their immediate neigh-

bourhood.

It may be well to note that unless the entrances to the harbour are forced, or an attacking force armed with modern guns comes from China, the city of Victoria is safe from the fire of hostile guns.

5. Enrolment of Civil Labour.

As previously stated, no difficulty is anticipated in procuring such civil labour as may be required-labourers, tradesmen, coolies, &c., who would be willing to work for Government if well paid. The local custom is to obtain them through native contractors, and, in view of the shifting population, it would be a very misleading detail to register now the names of labourers whom we may reasonably assume will always be forthcoming.

I. By his Excellency

6. Proclamations.

>

Governor and Commander-in-chief of the Colony of Hong Kong and its Dependencies, and Vice-Admiral of the same.

Whereas war having been proclaimed between Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen and

it is possible, in the absence of our fleet, that an attempt may be made by the enemy's squadron to surprise this port, and to requisition money and supplies; in such case bombardment will be accepted in preference to compliance, and the residents in the Colony are hereby informed that the effects of a bombardment are always much less than is commonly expected.

The British naval forces may be expected to afford early assistance. All necessary hospital and medical arrangements have been made.

A careful system of patrol on shore and afloat has been organized.

The arrival of a hostile squadron will be made known by the firing of three guns from the "Victor Emanuel."

The red British ensign will be hoisted at the masthead of the flag-staff at the Peak and the "Victor Emanuel so long as the enemy is in sight.

On the retirement of the enemy the Colonial flag will be hoisted instead. Civilians appointed to any military duties will be distinguished by a badge worn on the left arm.

(a.) Hospital and Ambulances: Red Cross.

(b.) Sanitary: Yellow Cross.

(c.) Commissariat: Blue Cross.

(d.) Messengers: Green Cross.

Further Proclamations will be issued as necessary from time to time.

By command, (Signed)

J

Colonial Secretary.

God save the Queen!

Given at Government House this

day of

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