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1888 Extracts from the
November & December
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Local / General News
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Additional, General/Local News etc. Index and Images can be found here
Burma Gazette B.M.D's Shipping Volunteer News
Mar. & Apr. May & June July & Aug. Sept. & Oct.
Additional, General/Local News etc. Index and Images can be found here
Burma Gazette B.M.D's Shipping Volunteer News
November
Adverts. / For Sale - To Let / Notices
Adverts. / For Sale - To Let / Notices
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Adverts.
B. Beale Established 1887 Dalhousie St., corner of 35th St. and opposite the Baptist Church. Telephone 125 Pianoforte maker and tuner. Harmoniums repaired and tuned. I undertake the tuning of pianos by the year. Watson & Summers Hari Dressers and Perfumers. Theatrical make-up attended to by an expert. Fancy Dresses, Boots & Shoes, Importers of English harness and Saddlery, spare parts of harness supplied. Merchant St. To Let With entry from 1st Nov. That commodious house no. 95 Cheap Road, Cantonments, with very spacious compound and garden and an excellent well. Rent Rs. 150 per month. For particulars apply on premises. |
To Let
With immediate entry. “Kokine Lodge” Kokine. Apply to Geo. Shaw Taylor. No. 1 Phayre St. Laterite & Bricks Shaik Dawood having purchased the Brickfield and plant of Mr D.S. Robinson, together with the sole right of using the trade marks D.S.R. and R.R. is open to supply bricks of these well-known brands at reasonable rates, a large stock now on hand. Notice Messrs. Moore & Co. Harness Manufactures. Butts Road, Walsall, Staffs. Indents will be received and the general business of the firm transacted during my absence in Europe by A.C. Hoare Esq., Accountant of Rangoon, who, holds my Power of Attorney. P.H. Moore. 1st Oct. 1888 F. Watson’s Hair Dressing Saloon. Opened 1st Nov. Will be found the cleanest, coolest and best in Burma. Barr Street – opposite the Rangoon Medical Hall. |
Notices
Arrangements for traffic at Races
All carriages going to the Strand must enter Simpson Road from an Easterly direction and after setting down with take up such place on the Maidan as will be pointed out by police or must go on to Godwin Road during the races. No carriages will be allowed to stand on Simpson Road between Voyle Road on East and Godwin Road on West. On leaving the races all carriages will pass along Simpson Road in a Westerly direction.
J.W. Olive, Supdt. of Police, Rangoon Town District.
Tenders will be received up to the 10th instant for the erection of a New Building on the compound of the Methodist Girls’ School, Lewis St.
For particulars apply to: Rev’d. S.P. Long, Methodist Parsonage.
Arrangements for traffic at Races
All carriages going to the Strand must enter Simpson Road from an Easterly direction and after setting down with take up such place on the Maidan as will be pointed out by police or must go on to Godwin Road during the races. No carriages will be allowed to stand on Simpson Road between Voyle Road on East and Godwin Road on West. On leaving the races all carriages will pass along Simpson Road in a Westerly direction.
J.W. Olive, Supdt. of Police, Rangoon Town District.
Tenders will be received up to the 10th instant for the erection of a New Building on the compound of the Methodist Girls’ School, Lewis St.
For particulars apply to: Rev’d. S.P. Long, Methodist Parsonage.
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Notices
The Officers, 1st Cheshire Regt., having engaged J. Samuel as Mess man hereby notify that they will not be responsible for debts incurred by him. J.D. Edge, Major, Mess President. Lodge Star of Burma Of Mark Master Masons no. 88. Wor. Bro. S. Oppenheimer, Wor. Master A regular meeting of above Lodge will be held this evening at 7 p.m. precisely. By Order. A.S.A. Akbar, for Secretary. |
Notices
Lodge “Victoria In Burma” No. 832 A regular meeting of the above will be holden in the Masonic Temple, Cantonments, at 8 p.m. this evening, Friday. H. Whitney, Secy. Rangoon Literary Society The Annual General Meeting of the Rangoon Literary Society will be held at the library, York Road at 6 p.m. on Thur. 29th Nov. 1888. Business – Annual Reports, Election of new Governing Body. R.G. Hudson, Hony. Secy. |
Balthazar & Son
On Thur. 15th Nov. at their residence no. 90 Cheap Road, at 7.30 a.m. The household furniture and fittings etc. of Misses Kitching and Bengough.
On Sat. the 17th Nov. at house no. 13 Lloyd’s Road at 7.30 a.m. Household furniture and fittings, the property of Mr R. White, Asst. Examiner, P.W.D.
On Thur. 15th Nov. at their residence no. 90 Cheap Road, at 7.30 a.m. The household furniture and fittings etc. of Misses Kitching and Bengough.
On Sat. the 17th Nov. at house no. 13 Lloyd’s Road at 7.30 a.m. Household furniture and fittings, the property of Mr R. White, Asst. Examiner, P.W.D.
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Adverts.
Painless Dentistry Messrs. T.H. and E.S. Stephens, Dental Surgeons. 70 Merchant St. Veterinary Surgeon Mr W. Stevenson, M.R.C.V.S., London, will arrive by S.S. Mandalay due about 9th instant and may be consulted at the Carriage Building Coy., Fytche Square. Where all letter should be addressed. When to use Glasses Should you find your sight failing he wisest and cheapest plan is at one to consult a Specialist and find out whether glasses are necessary ... N. Lazarus, Agent, F.W. Baker, London House, Rangoon. For Sale A pair of handsome black ponies, go well in harness. Apply to L. Andrews. |
Notices
Provincial Grand Lodge Of Mark Master Masons Right Wor. Bro. G.F. Travers-Drapes, Provincial Grand Master The regular quarterly communication of the above Lodge will be holden at Freemason’s Hall this evening at 8.30 o’clock. Mark Master Masons are invited to attend. H. Godber, Pro. Grand Secy. Lodge “Victoria in Burma” Of Mark Master Masons. No. 68 E.C. Wor. Bro. E.J. Khory, W.M. Wor. Bro. T.N. Seymour, S.W. In Charge A regular meeting of the Lodge will be held at the “Masonic Temple,” Cantonments at 8.30 p.m. on Fri. 16th Nov. 1888. J.H. Clarkson, offg. Secretary. |
Notices
Sealed Tenders will be received at the Office of the Executive Engineer, Pegu Division, ... for extending the Dispensary building at Pegu. ... W. Algie, B.A., Executive Engineer, Pegu Divn.
Sealed Tenders are invited for the Manufacture of 25 lakhs of 1st class Table Mounted Bricks ... H. Hoyne Fox, A.R.I.B.A., Executive Engineer, Rangoon Divn.
The undersigned in thanking his constituents and the general public for their former patronage begs to intimate that by special request of several ladies and gentlemen he reopens the business of W. Anson & Co. J. Moment, Rangoon 19th Nov. 1888.
Sealed Tenders will be received at the Office of the Executive Engineer, Pegu Division, ... for extending the Dispensary building at Pegu. ... W. Algie, B.A., Executive Engineer, Pegu Divn.
Sealed Tenders are invited for the Manufacture of 25 lakhs of 1st class Table Mounted Bricks ... H. Hoyne Fox, A.R.I.B.A., Executive Engineer, Rangoon Divn.
The undersigned in thanking his constituents and the general public for their former patronage begs to intimate that by special request of several ladies and gentlemen he reopens the business of W. Anson & Co. J. Moment, Rangoon 19th Nov. 1888.
Balthazar & Son
Under instructions form Messrs. Biedermann Sheriff & Co. on account and risk of Owner Jumma ... 1 case Lambskins ...
On Tuesday the 29th Nov. at 7.30 a.m. at no. 20 Sandwith Road, household furniture and fittings, the property of Dr. Forchammer.
Under instructions form Messrs. Biedermann Sheriff & Co. on account and risk of Owner Jumma ... 1 case Lambskins ...
On Tuesday the 29th Nov. at 7.30 a.m. at no. 20 Sandwith Road, household furniture and fittings, the property of Dr. Forchammer.
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Mandalay Races
Owners and trainers are reminded that first entries for the above close on 23rd November. S.L.F. Jackson, Hony. Secy. Mandalay Races For Sale To Trade Only. Charles Heidsieck’s Wesisslack Dry Champagne. In quarts and pints. Kaiser Beer from the Kaiser-Brewery on the Rhine. Diekmann Barckhausen & Co. |
Noticess
A vacancy exists as Probationer in the Rangoon Pilot Service. Applications for the same will be received by the Assistant Conservator of the Port up to the end of December 1888. Candidates must be over 23 and under 27 years of age. ... H.S. Ransom, Asst. Conservator of the Port Rangoon Presbyterian Church The seventh Organ recital will be given by Mr Frank Sherriff on Thursday next, 29th instant at 9 a.m. Soloists: Mrs Klier, Misses Hardinge, Baker, F. Baker and Porter, Messrs. Hodge, Chandler and Findlay. Chorus: The Rangoon Presbyterian Church Choral Union |
Local - General News / Letters to the Editor / Judicial / Articles
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Thongwa Dist. News
Pyapone, 29th Oct. Our district keeps very quiet and the few robberies we have had here have all been found out and the delinquents punished. The crops and stock prospect, so far, is good; we have had quite sufficient rain and only want a few showers now in November. There was a big festival on at Maubin lately. Boat and pony races, pways, boxing etc., formed some of the chief features. It is rumoured that Capt. T.G. Johnson is about leaving the district. This will be an appropriate farewell to his rule for he has always tried to do what he could for us and is, unlike some District Officers, thoroughly appreciated by the Burmans. The popular Asst. Superintendent of Police of Davdayai and our Asst. Commissioner, Mr Taylor, are also both going, I am told. With Capt. Johnson, Messrs. Bayne and Taylor gone, I guess we shall see some fun in Pyapone sub-divisions this dry season. Dadayai is full of Upper Burmans, many of them followers of Bohs. Fortunately the disarming process has removed one cause of fear, but it will be unfortunate if officers intimately acquainted with the people and so popular, all go at once. The officiating Commissioner, Colonel Spearman, came down here with considerable pomp and ceremony the other day, like a comet without a tail; for he has not even left the shadow of his tail behind and we are all asking ourselves “what did he come for?” The junior Inspector of Schools has also paid us a visit; so, at last, one of the richest districts in Burma is beginning to be discovered and explored. It is a far off eldorada (sic) to which the official, unless he can get something, rarely, comes; and when he is in it, he appears very anxious to be out of it. The only fruit of the Chief Commissioner’s visit to this district is the imposition of the Income Tax on all the towns that he visited and where he was well received by the Burmans. The Burmans are, I am told forming a ring to prevent the tax being levied. “With all these taxes” as a friend once said to me “I would rather be a beggar on the Boulevards of Paris, than a British subject of Burma” and my friend was not a Burman. It is, I think, much to be regretted that Government does not resort to indirect taxation and import duties rather than the heavy salt tax and levy of such an unpopular tax as the Income Tax over people like the Burmese. We hear that Mr DeCourcy Ireland is likely to return to Burma. He was much liked as a Commissioner when here before and we all hope that the report, that he has cancelled one year of his leave to Europe, is correct. Mr Dawson’s steamers have been paying us fleeting visits occasionally; and fares, both for passengers and freight have gone down considerably. When Mr Swan (sic) paid his first visit to Pyapone many years ago, he expressed great doubts about the steamers on this run ever paying their expenses. I imagine they pay better than many boats on longer lines; and this, Mr Dawson seems to have found out. There is plenty of room for profitable running of steamers between this and Pyindayai, a place which has been neglected by steamers until Mr Dawson advent. |
Local [Rangoon] News
Posting We are glad to hear that Mr W. deCourcy Ireland, so long and favourably known to all classes of the people in Burma, will shortly return to Burma for a further spell of service. He has not found Ireland all that he expected, or an estate there any great source of additional income. We shall be glad to have an officer of his great experience back in Burma. He will find times somewhat changed since he left us and the policy of disarmament he advocated, in force throughout the division he ruled so satisfactorily and well. Telegraphic Communication - between Banjowangie and Port Darwin is restored. Thus restoring communication with Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania and by the Moulmein route to Siam. Railways Mr G.F. Berrill, Sub-Engineer and Hony. Asst. Engineer, has been appointed to take charge of the 4th Division of the Toungoo-Mandalay Railway extension vice Mr Wiseman, Executive Engineer, who was taken privilege leave. Mr J.D. Harris, who was employed as a temporary Upper Sub-ordinate on the Toungoo-Mandalay extension, will, on his services being dispensed with by the Railway, be re-entertained on the Burma Provincial Establishment as a temporary Asst. Engineer. Indian Engineering. Letters to the Editor Sir, I beg you will kindly permit me to express my grievance through your valuable paper so that those in power may see how unjustly certain employees of the Burma State Railway are treated. I have been working on construction and open line work for the past five years and have always succeeded in giving my officers satisfaction in the discharge of my duties, and although, I have been strongly recommended for Rs. 110 a month it has been refused me, and Rs. 90 only (my wages for some time back) offered me. On my declining this, the latter amount, another man has been sent to relieve me on Rs. 100 per month, and one, who has never done the work he has been sent to do! But the latter is an elderly Englishman and I am an EURASIAN. Commissioners for the Port of Rangoon Excerpt from the proceedings of the 228th meeting of the Commissioners, held at their office on Thur. 25th Oct. 1888:- Read a letter from the Asst. Conservator of the Port ... dated 16th Oct. 1888, forwarding an application from Mr E.M. Simmonds, 1st grade pilot, for one month’s leave, with effect from the 23rd instant. Sanctioned. The tenders received for constructing a pontoon for the new jetty at the foot of Keighley street having been considered, it was resolved that Mr D.D. Coath’s tender for Rs. 12,420 be accepted. Read a letter from the Asst. Conservator of the Port, ... dated the 17th Oct. 1888, recommending that Messrs. Kerver and Bragg be permanently appointed as 4th grade Asst. Harbour-Masters. Resolved that the Asst. Conservator be informed that the Commissioners approve of his proposal, with effect from 1st Nov. 1888. Mr Francis Somebody entered the house of Mr Francis of the Custom’s Department, at his residence at Kokine, on Saturday last and relieved him of Rs. 165, together with his bunch of keys. |
Burma Ruby Mines
The term for which the services of Mr T.W.H. Hughes, A.R.S.M., C.E., F.A.S., Deputy Superintendent, Geological Survey of India, had been lent to the Hyderabad (Deccan) Mining Company, having expired on the 1st instant, the Deccan Times, states that Mr Hughes has been ordered to proceed at once to Burma to superintend the working of the Ruby Mines. Indian Engineer.
The term for which the services of Mr T.W.H. Hughes, A.R.S.M., C.E., F.A.S., Deputy Superintendent, Geological Survey of India, had been lent to the Hyderabad (Deccan) Mining Company, having expired on the 1st instant, the Deccan Times, states that Mr Hughes has been ordered to proceed at once to Burma to superintend the working of the Ruby Mines. Indian Engineer.
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Pyinmana News
30th Oct. The cold weather came in with a rush three nights ago and the sudden change was all the more marked; as after the cessation of the rains, we had to endure grilling heat that reminded us painfully of our suffering during stifling May and sultry June. Well, we have no cause to grumble now and mindful of the past uncompromising weather wet and dry, can, with all the more zest, enjoy the delightful climate that will attend us for the next 3½ or 4 months. The mosquitoes have fled, it is not snug inside, unless doors and windows are closed; and one needs a blanket at night to make himself comfortable. Do you not envy us? I have one item of news to give this week and hope it will be found interesting. ... You will see that my views on the future condition of this tract of country were a little too sanguine and that it will take years of careful watching and undivided energy to rid us of that pest, the petty dacoit, who, not unlike the insignificant of mosquitos, by his persistency and rapidity of motion gives endless worry and annoyance to slumbering humanity ... Head Constable Maung Pyi, acting on information, collected ten of his most trusty followers and started in pursuit of a gang of nine dacoits, who were reported to have attacked and looted some unfortunate cartmen ... another was fired by Maung Pyi himself, who shot the dacoit leader in the thigh. ... Our new Deputy Commissioner, Mr W.N. Porter, has won such a good name for himself as an excellent District Officer that we feel confident he will soon have his troublesome charge completely in hand and swiftly punish all disturbers of the peace. ... Mr Shaw, our late Deputy Commissioner, has been transferred to Mergui as a temporary measure. He was entertained at a farewell dinner the evening before he left and judging by the hilarity that prevailed throughout the night he must have been extremely popular among his own countrymen. We are to lose Mr James, Assistant Engineer, shortly. He goes to Mandalay. With him, I fear, go all our amusements; for he is most energetic in getting up sports and we have no one to take his place, especially now that the season for expeditions has cone round. |
Local News
Weather We have to thank Capt. Warden, Port Officer, for the following information which coincides with our own telegram received from Bombay – Information has just been received that a cyclone is raging at Madras and that all the telegraph lines in the neighbourhood are interrupted. Theft Mr Donnan, Executive Engineer, who has come down from Upper Burma with his family for the race week and who is staying at Jordan’s Hotel, has been robbed of diamonds valued at Rs. 3,700. The diamonds were kept in a jewel box, which was securely locked in the cash box. Yesterday morning the box was found in the compound of Mr Vaillant, of Edmund Jones & Co., under whom the husband of Mr Donald’s (sic) Ayah is working. The case is now in the hands of Babu Khan and we feel sure he will, with his usual skill, recover the lost diamonds. Christmas Dinner For the past five years a Committee of ladies in connection with the Methodist Episcopal Church have collected money and given a public dinner in the Seamen’s Rest and have, in other ways, tried to help the people to spend a Pleasant Christmas. Last Christmas 57 poor families had dinners sent them; 150 strangers and poor persons partook of the family Christmas Dinner at the Seamen’s Rest and a good dinner was provided for 37 Hospital patients; some 500 persons enjoyed the receptions and a number of widows or destitute persons were given small sums of money or articles of clothing. The ladies have decided that this year shall be no exception and a subscription list will be sent round for the subscriptions of those who desire to assist in this work. If any desiring to contribute do not see the paper, their contributions will be thankfully received if sent to Miss J.E. Wisner, Principal, Methodist Girls’ School. |
Theatre Royal
Sat., Nov. 10th
Amateur Concert in aid of Lady Roberts’ Nurses’ Home.
Under the distinguished personage of Sir Charles and Lady Crosthwaite.
The performance will include Jullien’s British Army Quadrilles by combined Military Band, by kind permission of Colonel Butlin and Officers, Cheshire Regt., Colonel Heskith and Officers, 8th Madras Infantry; Colonel Rigg and Officers B.S.R.V.R. “Fairie Voices” grand vocal waltz by G. William Crowe.
The following ladies and gentlemen have kindly consented to assist: Mesdames Biedermann, Ellis, Gordon, Haliday, Pedley, Raven, Short and Olive; Misses Darwood, Fressanger, Gormley, Ransom, M. Ransom and Wright. Messrs. Hussey-Walsh, C. Lowis and Gordon-Brown.
Violin: Solo, Mrs Dudgeon
Pianist: Mr Louing and Mr Doughty
Conductor: Mr Birkby
The performance to commence at 9 p.m. precisely.
Sat., Nov. 10th
Amateur Concert in aid of Lady Roberts’ Nurses’ Home.
Under the distinguished personage of Sir Charles and Lady Crosthwaite.
The performance will include Jullien’s British Army Quadrilles by combined Military Band, by kind permission of Colonel Butlin and Officers, Cheshire Regt., Colonel Heskith and Officers, 8th Madras Infantry; Colonel Rigg and Officers B.S.R.V.R. “Fairie Voices” grand vocal waltz by G. William Crowe.
The following ladies and gentlemen have kindly consented to assist: Mesdames Biedermann, Ellis, Gordon, Haliday, Pedley, Raven, Short and Olive; Misses Darwood, Fressanger, Gormley, Ransom, M. Ransom and Wright. Messrs. Hussey-Walsh, C. Lowis and Gordon-Brown.
Violin: Solo, Mrs Dudgeon
Pianist: Mr Louing and Mr Doughty
Conductor: Mr Birkby
The performance to commence at 9 p.m. precisely.
Letters to the Editor
Sr, I would be much obliged if you will permit me through your columns to thank a publicly as possible my many helpers in the Choral Festival of Thursday. The clergy, for their cooperation; the ladies for their tasteful decoration; the choirs for their untiring work in rehearsal and for the excellence of their singing; the band for their spirited and accurate playing and may others for help, when it would take too long to enumerate, have all earned my sincere gratitude. I must not omit to mention the kindness of Mr F. Sherriff in accompanying on the harmonium and the invaluable assistance rendered in many ways by Mr W. Sherriff, without whose help I do not think the festival would have been possible. Yours etc., A.H. Finn, Cantonment Chaplain.
Sr, I would be much obliged if you will permit me through your columns to thank a publicly as possible my many helpers in the Choral Festival of Thursday. The clergy, for their cooperation; the ladies for their tasteful decoration; the choirs for their untiring work in rehearsal and for the excellence of their singing; the band for their spirited and accurate playing and may others for help, when it would take too long to enumerate, have all earned my sincere gratitude. I must not omit to mention the kindness of Mr F. Sherriff in accompanying on the harmonium and the invaluable assistance rendered in many ways by Mr W. Sherriff, without whose help I do not think the festival would have been possible. Yours etc., A.H. Finn, Cantonment Chaplain.
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Mogoung
Leave On the 24th September, we lost our popular Asst. Commissioner, Lt. Elliott, his continued and arduous duties having necessitated a change of air. Mogoung turned out in force to bid him farewell, all pressing forward to shake him by the hand and wishing him a speedy return. As his boat shoved of three hearty cheers were given by the whole garrison. It is the more flattering to Mr Elliott that the cheers from the Gurkhas were spontaneous, showing in what appreciation they held him. Pioneer. Lecture The Rev’d. Dr. Marks will deliver a lecture on “Burma: past and present” at 7 p.m. on Tuesday the 6th instant at the Re-Union Club House in Canal Street. |
Departmental Examinations
The examination at Rangoon will be held in the Rangoon College on the 5th and 6th November ... G.J.S. Hodgkinson, Commissioner of Pegu and President, Central Examination Committee. Chin Raids Kindat, 3rd Nov. It is rumoured that in the raid by the Chins on Kalamyo, six were killed and fifty taken captive. More troops are being sent from Kalewa. |
Rangoon Autumn Meeting
Patron: General B.L. Gordon, C.B.
Stewards: Col. Butlin, J.W. Darwood, Col. Cooke, Surgeon-Major Johnstone, W. Innes, Col. Hesket, A. Sutherland, Surgeon-Major Gormley, Moola Ismail.
Hony. Secretary and Treasurer – Capt. A.G. Schuyler
Clerk of the Scales – Col. Butlin and Col. Cooke
Starter – W. Innes
Judge – Genl. Gordon, C.B.
Clerk of the Course – A. Sutherland
Hony. Vety. Surgeons – Dr. Frost and G.W. Macarthur
A slight shower fell about two o’clock but the course was in splendid order and rode very light and a large crowd turned up for the big meeting of the year. The racing was good and the times were faster than ever known before but a good many “certainties” were upset and backers must have had rather a bad time. It was certainly Mr Sutherland’s day out for he landed four races out of seven though he had a big pot upset in No. 1. At 4.30 p.m., the Chief Commissioner and Lady Crosthwaite accompanied by Mr Soppit, drove up along the course with an escort of 50 mounted police under the command of Mr Davidson, Asst. Superintendent and were received at the gate by the Stewards, the band playing the National Anthem. The weather held up fine throughout and everybody seemed to be having a good time; the day being marred by only one accident, that of Mr Francis, who was badly hurt through Gay Lad falling at the second hurdle in the first race. The Chief Commissioner was loudly cheered on leaving the course. The band of the Cheshire Regiment played a very choice programme and everybody seemed to leave in good spirits, even the losers, but especially Messrs. Miller and Brittain’s representative.
Mr Clementson, alias Henry, was fined Rs. 50 by the race Stewards for disobedience in refusing to parade his pony past the judge’s box.
ABL note: We will list the owners and riders only.
Patron: General B.L. Gordon, C.B.
Stewards: Col. Butlin, J.W. Darwood, Col. Cooke, Surgeon-Major Johnstone, W. Innes, Col. Hesket, A. Sutherland, Surgeon-Major Gormley, Moola Ismail.
Hony. Secretary and Treasurer – Capt. A.G. Schuyler
Clerk of the Scales – Col. Butlin and Col. Cooke
Starter – W. Innes
Judge – Genl. Gordon, C.B.
Clerk of the Course – A. Sutherland
Hony. Vety. Surgeons – Dr. Frost and G.W. Macarthur
A slight shower fell about two o’clock but the course was in splendid order and rode very light and a large crowd turned up for the big meeting of the year. The racing was good and the times were faster than ever known before but a good many “certainties” were upset and backers must have had rather a bad time. It was certainly Mr Sutherland’s day out for he landed four races out of seven though he had a big pot upset in No. 1. At 4.30 p.m., the Chief Commissioner and Lady Crosthwaite accompanied by Mr Soppit, drove up along the course with an escort of 50 mounted police under the command of Mr Davidson, Asst. Superintendent and were received at the gate by the Stewards, the band playing the National Anthem. The weather held up fine throughout and everybody seemed to be having a good time; the day being marred by only one accident, that of Mr Francis, who was badly hurt through Gay Lad falling at the second hurdle in the first race. The Chief Commissioner was loudly cheered on leaving the course. The band of the Cheshire Regiment played a very choice programme and everybody seemed to leave in good spirits, even the losers, but especially Messrs. Miller and Brittain’s representative.
Mr Clementson, alias Henry, was fined Rs. 50 by the race Stewards for disobedience in refusing to parade his pony past the judge’s box.
ABL note: We will list the owners and riders only.
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First Race
The Burman Hurdle Race The following is the names of the owner, horse and rider Mr Sutherland’s The Schoolmaster – [Rider] Hpo Pay Mahomed Ally’s Loonmacone – Capt. Phipps Moung Nyoon Boo’s Theinyan – Owner Mr Fowle’s Rogue – Mr Cholmondeley Mr Renny Tailyour’s Molly – Mr Gormley Dr. Sutherland’s Uncas – Owner Dr. Coia’s Little Roger – Couchman Swee Gwan’s Chan Aye – Hpo Yone Mr Barnett’s Fairy King – Owner Mr D’Castro’s Gay Lad – Mr Francis |
Second Race
Owner Swee Choon Mr Cowasjee Surgeon Hall Surgeon Henry G. Blake Mr Sutherland Mr Radcliff Mr Christopher Mr Raven Mr Delphin Mr Peters Mr Peters Dunbar Stuart Mr Darwood Mr Goodall Mr Sutherland Mr Pereira Mr Lawrence |
Rider Hpo Yone Hpo Kin Peter Ko Min Mr Gormley Hpo Shoay Hpo Chit Cursetjee Mr Elrington Kulick – later entry states Killick Ebrahim Mr Eadon Hpo Kin Mr Gormley Hpo Pay Mr Summers Hpo Nyoon Robinson |
Letters to the Editor
Irrawaddy Flotilla Co.
Sir, I dare say his personal friends will be glad to hail the return of the General Manager of the Flotilla Company, who is expected to be here about the 12th instant. Mr Kennedy, the Manager, I understand, after making over charge of his papers etc. to Mr Swann, will then proceed home to England. Mr Kennedy’s point-blank refusal to accept the Managership of a similar concern in La Plata, which he was offered the last time he was at home, on a more remunerative salary than what he draws at present, may suffice to contradict any rumour to the effect that he is not likely to return to Burma again. Mr Kennedy may have various reasons for liking Burma and probably its people too; but if that gentleman had been gifted by an intuitive light, which would have led him to foresee the future state of the Flotilla Company, at the time that he refused the remunerative post of Manager at La Planta, he would have no doubt thought twice before he refused the offer. The Flotilla once had the monopoly of the river Service, in fact to such an extent that it has helped, as it were, to line its own nest, while of its own accord it spared no pains to perform that pleasing duty. But despite its present efforts to get out more steamers and flats with the object of running them to places in the upper parts of the Irrawaddy and Chindwin, which were not reached by steam navigation before, there is no disguising the fact, however much we may try, that it must necessarily be financially depressed, when the iron horse steams to Mandalay after the Toungoo-Mandalay extension is complete and when the line is declared to be open. Apart from the consideration that passengers from Rangoon to Mandalay will most undoubtedly prefer tripping it by train, which will take them to their destination in two days, to a steam passage on [a] Flotilla boat, which takes about four days. The Burma State Railway will see the necessity (a fact of which you have repeatedly hit upon in these columns) to get a larger supply of timber trucks and goods vehicles than they have at present to meet the requirements of merchants; and it will be soon seen that in the interests of merchandise it will be far safer and quicker to convey even goods by rail. There is one fact to be considered and that is that the Company have made their fortune and they can afford to rest and be thankful now. But even the small steam launches started by Mr Dawson, seem to excite the liveliest jealousy of the Flotilla people. They run them closer than ever the London General Omnibus Company “nurse” a rival on their lines and have reduced fares often to one-sixteenth of what they charge when no opposition boats appear. In the Bassein district these tactics have not met with the approval of the Burmese altogether and the kind action of Capt. Collier, who conveyed free an old woman and a family of three girls who might easily have been ruined in Bassein, for they were conveyed there from a long distance off, for a few annas and then told it would cost them as many rupees to get back, has been published far and wide and has acted as a splendid advertisement for Mr Dawson’s launches. Those poor people were fed for 3 days by Capt. Collier and then conveyed gratis to their jungle homes. The villagers now pay 4 annas for a trip in Mr Dawson’s boat thought the Flotilla only charges one anna when there is an opposition. But the people know the fares go to a rupee when the opposition boat is removed and they wisely have chosen to support it.
Yours faithfully, Peeping Tom.
Bassein, 1st Nov. – We publish the above letter though we do not at all coincide with our correspondent’s opinion that the State Railway (as at present Manager) will be much of a thorn in the sides of the Mandalay Flotilla steamers. People who can afford the time will much refer the comfort and luxuries of the steamers to the dirt and discomfort of the Railway. It may be otherwise if the railway management will provide water and necssaries for 3rd class carriages but passengers by the latter are treated more like cattle than human being at present; and water in the dry season, last year, was often unobtainable at some of the stations between Rangoon and Prome! The public will benefit by the opening of the railway no doubt, as the Flotilla will reduce rates but as far as the two termini rates are concerned, the bulk of passengers and goods will, we believe, still elect to proceed by steamer. Ed. – R.T.
Irrawaddy Flotilla Co.
Sir, I dare say his personal friends will be glad to hail the return of the General Manager of the Flotilla Company, who is expected to be here about the 12th instant. Mr Kennedy, the Manager, I understand, after making over charge of his papers etc. to Mr Swann, will then proceed home to England. Mr Kennedy’s point-blank refusal to accept the Managership of a similar concern in La Plata, which he was offered the last time he was at home, on a more remunerative salary than what he draws at present, may suffice to contradict any rumour to the effect that he is not likely to return to Burma again. Mr Kennedy may have various reasons for liking Burma and probably its people too; but if that gentleman had been gifted by an intuitive light, which would have led him to foresee the future state of the Flotilla Company, at the time that he refused the remunerative post of Manager at La Planta, he would have no doubt thought twice before he refused the offer. The Flotilla once had the monopoly of the river Service, in fact to such an extent that it has helped, as it were, to line its own nest, while of its own accord it spared no pains to perform that pleasing duty. But despite its present efforts to get out more steamers and flats with the object of running them to places in the upper parts of the Irrawaddy and Chindwin, which were not reached by steam navigation before, there is no disguising the fact, however much we may try, that it must necessarily be financially depressed, when the iron horse steams to Mandalay after the Toungoo-Mandalay extension is complete and when the line is declared to be open. Apart from the consideration that passengers from Rangoon to Mandalay will most undoubtedly prefer tripping it by train, which will take them to their destination in two days, to a steam passage on [a] Flotilla boat, which takes about four days. The Burma State Railway will see the necessity (a fact of which you have repeatedly hit upon in these columns) to get a larger supply of timber trucks and goods vehicles than they have at present to meet the requirements of merchants; and it will be soon seen that in the interests of merchandise it will be far safer and quicker to convey even goods by rail. There is one fact to be considered and that is that the Company have made their fortune and they can afford to rest and be thankful now. But even the small steam launches started by Mr Dawson, seem to excite the liveliest jealousy of the Flotilla people. They run them closer than ever the London General Omnibus Company “nurse” a rival on their lines and have reduced fares often to one-sixteenth of what they charge when no opposition boats appear. In the Bassein district these tactics have not met with the approval of the Burmese altogether and the kind action of Capt. Collier, who conveyed free an old woman and a family of three girls who might easily have been ruined in Bassein, for they were conveyed there from a long distance off, for a few annas and then told it would cost them as many rupees to get back, has been published far and wide and has acted as a splendid advertisement for Mr Dawson’s launches. Those poor people were fed for 3 days by Capt. Collier and then conveyed gratis to their jungle homes. The villagers now pay 4 annas for a trip in Mr Dawson’s boat thought the Flotilla only charges one anna when there is an opposition. But the people know the fares go to a rupee when the opposition boat is removed and they wisely have chosen to support it.
Yours faithfully, Peeping Tom.
Bassein, 1st Nov. – We publish the above letter though we do not at all coincide with our correspondent’s opinion that the State Railway (as at present Manager) will be much of a thorn in the sides of the Mandalay Flotilla steamers. People who can afford the time will much refer the comfort and luxuries of the steamers to the dirt and discomfort of the Railway. It may be otherwise if the railway management will provide water and necssaries for 3rd class carriages but passengers by the latter are treated more like cattle than human being at present; and water in the dry season, last year, was often unobtainable at some of the stations between Rangoon and Prome! The public will benefit by the opening of the railway no doubt, as the Flotilla will reduce rates but as far as the two termini rates are concerned, the bulk of passengers and goods will, we believe, still elect to proceed by steamer. Ed. – R.T.
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Reduction of the Military Garrison in Burma
The results of the reliefs this season will be a further reduction in the Military Garrison in Burma by three Battalions of Infantry and two Native Cavalry Regiments. Rangoon Municipality A general meeting of the members of the Rangoon Municipality was held in the Town Hall yesterday ... the following gentlemen were present: J.D. Norton, President, Messrs. J. Kearney, E.A. Lutter, H. Bateman, F.C. Kennedy, A. Penneycuick, Rev’d. Dr. Marks, Surgeon-Major Godber, Sayah Ohn Gaing, Moung Oo Young, U Kye Oh and Oo Myat Tsan. ... a proposal to establish a Sanitary Board for Burma was read out; in this letter it was proposed that the board should consist of three official and one non-official member and that Mr O.D. Clarke, the Executive Engineer of the Municipality, should be one of them. The President asked the Committee if they would agree to this proposal and said that he thought that Mr Clarke’s wide experience in sanitary administration well fitted him to represent the Municipality. The proposal was agreed to. Tenders, of which there were only two, for watering the streets during the season of 1888-89 were next considered and that of Vencataswamy’s being the lowest, it was accepted. Bishop Bigandet We regret to hear the health of the Venerable Roman Catholic Bishop Dr. F.P. Bigandet continues to give great anxiety to the numerous friends of the worthy Prelate in Burma. His weakness is great and he can take but little nourishment, whilst his great age prevents his being removed for the change of air which might prove beneficial. We trust Burma may yet be spared for some time the loss which Dr. Bigandet’s death would cause to us all. Mr Watson We regret to say that Mr Watson (senior) late of Watson & Summers, had a bad fall on the race course yesterday morning. He was giving his pony Valentine (who runs today) a gallop over the flat course and had just got him fairly into his stride when, in turning the corner, between the racket court and the grandstand, the pony charged right into one of the rope obstacles, put up by the stewards on the course, to keep the ponies off the side near the rails in the straight. The pony chested the obstacle and came down throwing his rider over his head. Mr Watson sustained a broken arm and a compound fracture and dislocation of the right elbow; the bone protruding through the skin. He was taken to the hospital when the bone was set by Dr. Griffiths. Mr Watson is we are glad to say, doing well and there are no signs of fever. Mr Sutherland Mr Sutherland appears to have got a real flyer in Embo, and we may, probably, expect to see him in front again in his next race. We hear he was purchased up-country for Rs. 500, a price which hardly represents his value. He won the Rangoon Plate almost as he liked, although, he ran out at the home turn, and his jockey seemed unable to keep him straight thereby losing a lot of ground. |
Maubin News
I see by one of your last Newsletters that even dead and alive Pyapong has got a correspondent at last, what a dear innocent soul he is and how well he knows the ways of contractors. Why does he not give us a few chapters from his personal experiences, when he could tell us how much rotten wood and burnt iron he supplied to confiding capitalists, instead of giving us Pyapoung (sic) bazaar gup as he news of Maubin. The facts of the jail case appear to be, that while at work on the new building one of the prisoners managed to secrete a carpenter’s chisel and this apparently was not missed by the wardens as it appears the prisoners were at work two nights on the Pyengado palisade, before they got through it. Then, after getting out, they wandered about the jail enclosure for some time before they could find any means of getting out and at last got hold of a bamboo used to sweep the cobwebs from the walls and managed to scale the walls with this so cleared off. Of course the sentries must have been rather sleepy-headed to have allowed this to have been done, on a bright moonlit night too; but one does come across such men, at times, a little more often than Deputy Commissioners or Superintendents of Jails, who pass rotten timber for good materials. Our worthy Jail Superintendent was on an inspection tour at the time or perhaps things would not have been quite so easy for the escapers. Mr Foy, Asst. Engineer, arrived here on Sunday and takes up charge of this sub-division in place of Sergt. Bas, wo goes on leave. Everything is fairly quiet now except mosquitoes, and if the weather will only continue as cool as it has been these last few days, (thermometer down to 80˚ at 9 a.m.) we may expect these to be thinner shortly. Thayetmyo News I don’t suppose Thayetmyo has even witnessed such gala preparations and on such an elaborate scale as were made for the Ball n Thursday night, 25th. The Travellers’ Bungalow, affording the necessary accommodation was selected for the purpose. The compound was dotted all around with tapers and other lights. Opposite the front of the Bungalow, 12 to 15 Burman lads were squatted on mats and relieved the band of the 29th who were in attendance, by an occasional set of a “Poay” dancing, of course, to their own charming music. ... Mrs Perreau the lady Superintendent of these arrangements, deserves credit for her well-spent and richly earned labour. Dancing commenced at 9.30 p.m., the partners were quite unproportionate, thee being at least 3 gentlemen to on lady. The ladies present were Mistresses Campbell, Bourke, Ayerst, Beresford, Perreau, Gatherer, Sevenoaks and Hogan and all the Civil and Military Officers in the station. By-the-bye, I must not forget to mention that this ball was given as a farewell by the Civil to the Military Officer. Surgeon-Major Frenchman, our popular and much esteemed Civil Surgeon, has gone to Rangoon on a short visit. His duties are kindly looked after by Dr. Robinson of H.M.S. 29th M.I. 5th Nov. 1888 Upper Burma Summary In Meiktila, police and cavalry pursued a gang who raided in the previous week on the village of Ok, killed three and captured three more with seven guns. There were no other events of importance during the week. |
Mandalay News
There has been a considerable breach on the Oung-bin-le bund, between the 4th and 5th mile towards Maymyo. The country towards the South is submerged. It is expected to have been the work of the cultivators who have repeatedly asked the authorities to open out the sluice gates to overflow their fields to which the authorities have turned a deaf ear. This has caused a pucca stir among the Engineers and they are there in force to remedy the evil. The lake high-water level is at present 10 feet above that of the plains and you can imagine at what rate the water was rushing through a gap of eight feet and if it is not checked by this evening the damage will be appalling. Mr Newton, the Executive Engineer is doing what can be done and we must thank him for the prompt steps he has taken.
Our Deputy Commissioner, in additional to his multifarious duties, is officiating Treasury Officer also, the present incumbent, Mr Carey, being sick; the Asst. Commissioner, Mr Houghton, is gone to Ye-u to officiate as Deputy. It is strange how a large Division like Mandalay should be crippled for want of Judicial Officers. Major Cooke wants sadly at least three competent officers to assist him in order to give through satisfaction. Now if this much over-worked officer should fall sick (which God forbid) I suppose the whole work would fall on our Commissioner, Colonel Strover, there being no other officer here to do the needful. It is to be hoped the Chief Commissioner will look into this matter and have an efficient staff to fall back on in case of necessity.
A few of the towns people are in great tribulation; on account of the Pretender Prince having threatened an attack, but the Police and Military are doing all they can to allay feuds by patrols and I have no doubt the precautions taken will have the desired effect. 2nd Nov. 1888
There has been a considerable breach on the Oung-bin-le bund, between the 4th and 5th mile towards Maymyo. The country towards the South is submerged. It is expected to have been the work of the cultivators who have repeatedly asked the authorities to open out the sluice gates to overflow their fields to which the authorities have turned a deaf ear. This has caused a pucca stir among the Engineers and they are there in force to remedy the evil. The lake high-water level is at present 10 feet above that of the plains and you can imagine at what rate the water was rushing through a gap of eight feet and if it is not checked by this evening the damage will be appalling. Mr Newton, the Executive Engineer is doing what can be done and we must thank him for the prompt steps he has taken.
Our Deputy Commissioner, in additional to his multifarious duties, is officiating Treasury Officer also, the present incumbent, Mr Carey, being sick; the Asst. Commissioner, Mr Houghton, is gone to Ye-u to officiate as Deputy. It is strange how a large Division like Mandalay should be crippled for want of Judicial Officers. Major Cooke wants sadly at least three competent officers to assist him in order to give through satisfaction. Now if this much over-worked officer should fall sick (which God forbid) I suppose the whole work would fall on our Commissioner, Colonel Strover, there being no other officer here to do the needful. It is to be hoped the Chief Commissioner will look into this matter and have an efficient staff to fall back on in case of necessity.
A few of the towns people are in great tribulation; on account of the Pretender Prince having threatened an attack, but the Police and Military are doing all they can to allay feuds by patrols and I have no doubt the precautions taken will have the desired effect. 2nd Nov. 1888
Rangoon Autumn Meeting
Once more, we are blessed with fine weather and all Rangoon turned up to see a very good day’s racing; though outsiders pulled off the majority of the events and the bookmakers ought to have had a good time. Mr Sutherland’s luck seemed to be still abiding with him as he won two out of four and was second twice, a good percentage. The band of the 8th M.I. discoursed sweet strains for those who had time to listen. The Chief Commissioner, we hear, will come up to see the racing on Thursday, the Cup day. Hpo Yine, who rode Chan Aye, hurt himself by falling in the Grand Military, but, we hear, is not seriously injured.
Once more, we are blessed with fine weather and all Rangoon turned up to see a very good day’s racing; though outsiders pulled off the majority of the events and the bookmakers ought to have had a good time. Mr Sutherland’s luck seemed to be still abiding with him as he won two out of four and was second twice, a good percentage. The band of the 8th M.I. discoursed sweet strains for those who had time to listen. The Chief Commissioner, we hear, will come up to see the racing on Thursday, the Cup day. Hpo Yine, who rode Chan Aye, hurt himself by falling in the Grand Military, but, we hear, is not seriously injured.
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Owner
Mr Daniell G. Blake Mr Peters Mr Coia Mr Caven Mr Sutherlan Mr Sutherland Hop Khine Ko Choc Moung Mhau Mr Renny Tailyour Mr Lawrence Mr Caven Mr Radcliff Surgeon Hall Mr Retsan Mr Donnau Mr Blake Mr Delphin Mr Peters Mr Fowle Mr Summers Mr Charles |
Rider
Mr Gormley Mr Nelson Hpo Kin Ho Chit Mr Elrington Mr Summers Hpo Kin Ali Asker Oung Ban Mg Pyoo Mr Nelson Mr Elrington Mr Watson Hpo Chin Peter Mg Nyoon Boo Hpo Thet Mr Gormley Mr Killick Owner Hpo Khin Owner Mr Robinson |
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Rangoon
We hear that Mr Riddock the Superintendent of the Conservancy Department is dangerously ill with chronic dysentery. Tounghoo News Our Civil Surgeon has returned and his arrival was welcomed by everyone here. In Dr. Rundle, we have found what a doctor ought to be. His gentle treatment and kind attention towards the patients are to be thought of with grateful feelings. He was very popular when he was last here. It is to be regretted that there appears but little life in our Volunteer Company. It is time that our Volunteers should have come to the front The occasional drills that are kept up are poorly attended. Picture to yourself, Mr Editor, the Volunteer Band followed by two or three Volunteers and the Sergeant Instructor going out route marching. From this it seems that the idea of forming an efficient and a respectable detachment is a hopeless one. What is required is, that each and every man should evince a greater interest in volunteering and set aside all frivolous excuses such as saying, I am not paid for it, I have my own official work to do and so on. Government do not compel civilians to join against their will, but when our volunteers do so it only stands to reason that he should perform his duties as a volunteer in right earnest. But maybe, most of our men wish to be volunteers only in name; if so, they are entirely mistaken. We read some very good accounts of Volunteers in other parts of Burma; but what do we read of this place? I hope they will take these few observations in good part. They should now be up and doing and make their brother volunteers in other places understand that they are made of equal or superior stuff. There was a subscription Ball got up on the 24th ultimo in connection with the expected departure of the wing of the S.W.B. Regt. The Hall of the Municipal School was tastefully decorated for the purpose. The Volunteer Band was in attendance. In continuation of this entertainment a tea-party was given on the125th Oct. at Mr Midwinter’s to all the children of the European and Eurasian residents of the station, and the above Band discoursed some fine airs at intervals, till a late part of the evening. Mr Koepsel, the Methodist Pastor of this place, has been compelled to leave us for a change of climate on account of his health. We wish him a safe journey to whatever place he goes to and we hope he will return to us in health and vigour to resume his work. Rangoon Mr Watson is, we are glad to say, getting on very favourably, and is quite free from fever. T.F. Fforde, deceased We regret to learn from the Rangoon Gazette of the death of Mr T.F. Fforde, Deputy Commissioner of Sagaing on Thursday last. [1st Nov.] His is a great loss to the Upper Burma Commission. Mr T.F. Fforde, who had risen from the Police to the high post he occupied, was a good Burmese scholar and a good man all round. He was originally, we believe, in the Merchant Marine Service, which has given several good men to the Government of Burma. House Building We understand the Rajah of Calagouk, who arrives on Sunday, is bringing out the steel frames of eight houses for the Wyse Village, shortly to be erected on the grounds known as “Ferndale” at Ahlone, lately the property of Mr A. Watson. |
Mr White
Mr T.T. White, Asst. Chemical Examiner of the Rangoon College, we hear, leaves for Calcutta by next mail to try for the M.A. Examination, which comes off on the 19th instant. Mr white has taken “Science” as his subject and we are glad to hear that he has not only made up his mind to pass but also to obtain a Gold Medal. We, in common with the boys of the school, wish Mr White every success. Photographs Mr Phil Klier has sent us half a dozen specimens of photographs recently taken by him consisting of portraits of two Burmese ladies and different views of Rangoon. As works of art they are perfect; and as small Christmas greetings to one’s friends a Home, we think, nothing could be nicer than to send a choice selection of these photos to Home Sweet Home, to give our dear ones some idea of Burma and its inhabitants. Mr Anthony A Pegu correspondent mentions that Mr Peter F. Anthony, Agent for Messrs. Edmund Jones & Co., has arrive in Pegu. It is hoped that the firm will re-open a branch business coupled with auctioneering in that town. At present the bazaar dealers there are unable to supply goods wanted such as corrugated Iron sheets, Zinc sheets etc. Mr Jacobs The Assistant Stationmaster of Poungdeh, Mr Jacobs, is being prosecuted in the Deputy Commissioner’s Court at Poungdeh for leaving his station without permission. It would appear that Mr Jacobs was ordered to live in the menials quarters, which he refused to do, and tendered his resignation by telegraph and left the place, it is said that the resignation was not accepted. Capt. Parsonage We regret to say that Captain Parsonage of the Nevasa was drowned at midnight on Thursday [7th Nov.] He was returning on board his vessel, along with Captain Woods of the Culna and took a sampan from Sparks Street wharf, although his own boat was waiting for him at Barr St. A Sampan was lying alongside the ship’s steps and drifting on to it, [he] caught hold of it, with the intention of getting on board; but the sampan-wallah letting go, the two boats drifted broadside onto the bows of a cargo boat which was lying alongside the Nevasa ad capsized. Captain Woods, seeing what was going to happen, jumped and caught hold of the cargo boats anchor which was hanging in the bows and managed to hang on, one of the sampan men following his example. Capt. Parsonage and the other man, were sucked in underneath the cargo boat and drowned. Their bodies have not been recovered. Capt. Parsonage was one of the most popular men in the B.I. and his loss will be deeply felt. He seems to have been very unfortunate, as, when in command of the Arcot, she ran aground on the James and Mary’s quicksands in the Hooghly and capsized. All the crew and passengers, we believe, were saved. Sometime previous to this the Arcot ran on a rock off the Madras coast and knocked a hole in her bottom. Capt. Parsonage saving his crew and passengers by promptly breaching her for which he and the Engineer received a gold medal. He has been about one year in command of the Nevasa, during which time he had made seven voyages in her and was much liked by the officers and crew under his command. |
Elections
We understand Capt. R.R. Winter of Poozoondoung, Lloyd’s Surveyor and a resident of Rangoon for twenty years, has been nominated by a large number of electors as their representative at the forthcoming election and that he has consented to stand. We should like to see Capt. Winter’s nautical knowledge and local experience utilised on the Port Trust Committee. Mr P.M. Madooray Pillay, now in Madras and shortly expected in Rangoon, has been nominated we hear, by some of the Hindoos of the town as their representative. We also hear the names of Mr W. Roweth, Mr D.D. Coath and Dr. D’Souza favourably mentioned as nominees for Municipal honours.
Telegrams
The Burma Ruby Mines
The India Office has decided against the Streeter Syndicate for the Burma Ruby Mines.
The Pioneer’s London telegram states that it is announced in the city that the India Office have decided against the Streeter Syndicate. It is expected that tenders will now be invited to work the Burma Ruby Mines.
We understand Capt. R.R. Winter of Poozoondoung, Lloyd’s Surveyor and a resident of Rangoon for twenty years, has been nominated by a large number of electors as their representative at the forthcoming election and that he has consented to stand. We should like to see Capt. Winter’s nautical knowledge and local experience utilised on the Port Trust Committee. Mr P.M. Madooray Pillay, now in Madras and shortly expected in Rangoon, has been nominated we hear, by some of the Hindoos of the town as their representative. We also hear the names of Mr W. Roweth, Mr D.D. Coath and Dr. D’Souza favourably mentioned as nominees for Municipal honours.
Telegrams
The Burma Ruby Mines
The India Office has decided against the Streeter Syndicate for the Burma Ruby Mines.
The Pioneer’s London telegram states that it is announced in the city that the India Office have decided against the Streeter Syndicate. It is expected that tenders will now be invited to work the Burma Ruby Mines.
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Fort Stedman News
27th Oct. The latest reports from Sawlapaw’s country represent him as being utterly cowed and willing to accept any terms the British Government choose to inflict on him. This is not considered satisfactory news by some of the Military here, who had hoped for a little excitement and change from the expedition and think it rather hard lines that Messrs. Fowler and Scott and a few Beloochis should have had all the fun to themselves. Cannot you get a few enterprising Chinese or natives of India to start shops in places like this, Koni and Monay. They would rapidly make money. The Shans go in heavily for sweet biscuits and Anglo Swiss condensed milk, paraffin oil, matches, candles, syrups of all sorts would find ready buyers and the Sawbwas would give orders for English clothing, plates, cutlery, English saddles, musical boxes, watches etc. if some enterprising man would only bring such things up. Affairs have quieted down here wonderfully since Twet Nga Soo, the rebel Sawbwa, was captured. The former inhabitants have returned to Monay. Cultivation is everywhere extending. In King Mendoon’s (sic) time, rice was always cheaper in the Shan States than in Upper Burma. These States offer a splendid field for agriculture. Every kind of English vegetable grows freely. Potatoes could be grown to any extent in the Myelat, not more than sixty miles from the Tounghoo-Mandalay Railway. With improved communications we could supply Rangoon almost all the year round with potatoes, cauliflower, knolkohl, Brussels sprouts, cabbages, green peas, strawberries and most English fruits. Wheat can be grown in most parts of the Shan States and would pay even better than rice. Sheep have not been tried; but would, I feel certain, thrive on the high lands; cattle and ponies are numerous and prolific. The Eastern States appear to have numerous tigers. One, a man-eater, was recently killed, by a party consisting of Mr J.G. Scott and two sepoys, whilst munching the shoulder of a poor girl not twenty yards from the town. He measured between 9 and 10 feet and was said, during his lifetime, to have killed between 50 and 60 people. He received the coup de grace from Mr J.G. Scott’s rifle. Fortunately very few of the numerous tigers about appear to be man-eaters, but in the eastern States all villages are fortified against them and they are more dreaded then dacoits. There seems to be a splendid future destiny for the Shan States, but improved communications in the railway seems to be a necessity. It is to be hoped funds will soon be available for this work, which is one of the first importance to the country. These States might, I believe, under good and settled Government, supply in another 10 or 15 years, as much grain as Lower Burma does, to say nothing of cattle and garden produce. |
Elections
We have been informed that there is some doubt of the eligibility of Capt. R.R. Winter, who has been nominated a candidate for the forthcoming election, on account of the Municipality not putting him on the list and his not applying to have the list altered within one month from its publication. As the list was not circulated it seems a pity that such a technicality should prevent a citizen of some 20 years’ irreproachable career in Burma representing us. Capt. Parsonage The bodies of Capt. Parsonage and the sampan walla have not been recovered and we fear that even if the corpse of the former does come to the surface there is but little likelihood of its coming to the knowledge of the authorities, if found by natives, as Capt. Parsonage, when he was drowned, had it is said, Rs. 600 on him (mostly in notes) besides a presentation gold watch and gold ring. The body will be most probably plundered of these valuables, if found, and sunk again to prevent the crime becoming known. Ganja A big seizure of ganja was made yesterday morning on board the Madras Mail steamer Ellora. Some ganja having been found on some soldiers belonging to the 15th and 29th M.I. The kits of all the native soldiers on board were examined; nothing was found, but after the men had left the ship Mr Mcready, the Customs Inspector, destroyed 900 tolas which had been thrown down the windsail into the hold. Editorial Cattle Trade – Upper Burma We think it is high time that some steps should be taken to regulate the purchase and export of cattle from Upper Burma. There can hardly be a doubt that 90 per cent of the animals exported by steamer from the various stations on the Irrawaddy are stolen. The largest proportion of these animals appear to be landed in the Henzada, Prome or Thongwa districts, where their arrival would not create so much suspicion, as if they were brought to Rangoon, and where there would be much greater difficulty in tracing them, as they are at once dispersed in the jungles Now Burman agriculturists do not sell their cattle as a rule, and it is impossible, looking to the prices these bullocks realise, after paying Rs. 15 steamer freight, to come to any other conclusion. If the thieves can manage o evade pursuit in the district where the thefts take place, and cross into another, all trace of them appears to be lots, as the officers of one district seldom cross into another, having quite sufficient work to do to look after their own district. The immense evils these cattle thefts do to the country, should induce the authorities to take steps to make the trade in stolen cattle less safe and profitable than it has hitherto been. |
Letters to the Editor
Dear Sir,
I have perused in the several telegrams and correspondence from Upper Burma which appeared in the Rangoon newspapers, that the word Boh has been used for a dacoit chief or leader. The word Boh, as I understand, is meant for an officer or warrior of rank, namely a General, Bohgyok. The word Boh is now so commonly used instead of the word gaung for a dacoit leader and if the Local Government will be pleased to cause the Burmese word Boh to be altered to gaung when used for a dacoit leader or Rebel Chief, it would not give the evil doers a high sounding title. I think that the word Boh prefixed to the name of a dacoit leader may excite or cause the ignorant to believe that it is indicative of some honour given, although undeservedly. I remember that during the 2nd Burmese war in 1853 that Nga Myat Toon, who seemed to have fought well, was called a Robber Chief or Dhameagaung; and in 1854 several Rebel leaders were known as Rebel Chiefs or Pongongaungmyo.
It would appear that in the present time every man, great and small in rank, whether he be a Myook, an Inspector or Constable of Police wants honours or expects rewards by promotion or increase of pay for killing or capturing dacoit gangs or bandit leaders. I would hope that if the Local Government of Burma will consider it well to stop the present system of giving large rewards from the public revenue for the capture of dacoits, that the names of dacoit leaders will not be heard or otherwise invented in the towns in Upper Burma.
I may add that in former days the Deputy Commissioners, with the assistance of Gyoung Gyoubs, Thurgyis, village Gaungs, Keaidangyis and Burmese Policemen, were the only means for hunting dacoits in the Tenasserim Division. The followers of the Deputy Commissioner then had dhas and flint guns for use. Gunpowder was plentiful and cheap, say a flint gun might be purchased at Rs. 3 to Rs. 3-8 each and powder from Rs. 1 to Rs. 1-8 per pound.
The Andamans was the only penal settlement for transportation of criminals. Thus dacoits were successfully hunted, captured, tried and punished; and dacoities put down by the then several Deputy Commissioners, Majors Tickell, Berdmore, Brown and others in the Tenasserim Division.
Timber and Rice trades were extensive and brisk in those day and Foresters with plenty of money.
Thanks to Mr Irwin, Deputy Commissioner and Mr Tucker, Superintendent of Police that dacoits and bad characters have been cleared out and dacoities suppressed in the Pegu District. I remain, Dear Sir, Yours faithfully, A LOOKER ON. Nov. 8th 1888.
Et Tu, Brute. 2
Sir, I have read with considerable interest the information that appears from time to time both in your columns and in those of Indian papers concerning our relations with frontier tribes. While I perfectly agree with you concerning the necessity of protecting those who, committed by Providence or the course of circumstances to our care, may be considered within the pale of civilization, and therefore within the limits which it is necessary we should safeguard life and limb, it seems to my somewhat imperfect understanding that this boundary is by no means conterminous with that forming the limit of our imperial sway.
If a man for the sake of gain, whether illicit or lawful, chooses to reside in localities where we do not implicitly or tacitly guarantee him against all molestation, it seems that the rule of caveat emptor might receive a more general application in the case suggested. If we hold that a man is bound to accept the consequences of purchasing goods when no warranty is given or implied, I hardly see why the man who elects to grow tea in the midst of the Singphos or to hunt rubber up the Chindwin, should expect the Government, that is, the taxpayer, to take any further trouble about him, except in removing him without compensation should his continued residence in such places threaten to become dangerous to either or any of the communities concerned.
The greater danger, the greater the profit; for a market dangerous or difficult of access is always a dear one, and the true commercial policy on which our national prosperity is funded, is that of buying in the cheapest and selling in the dearest market. The extra gain, which frequently is a double one, inasmuch that in these countries the trader buys local produce cheap and sells or barters imported goods dear, is a set-off to the danger, which is itself frequently the cause of the enhanced gain. A man who chooses to live in debatable land, should be allowed to do so at his sole rick and the sooner this idea is incorporated as a fundamental principle of Indian policy, the better. If he is ignorant of the danger, that is his look-out; ignorance of law or circumstance is no excuse. And it seems to me that the man who, when he has the chance of removing from these undesirable localities, as in the case of a few jungle Burmans along the Chindwin, to others within the practical pale of our protection, does so to a great extent, at his own risk.
If the principals lately included in the press, of interfering in all and sundry cases where people have gone into risky countries and therein suffered, are to be adopted, our empire can only be limited by collapse, or by the poles. Englishmen, and here I use the word in its broadest sense as implying rather British subjects with English ideas, are naturally venturesome, and if your arguments in re: the Chin business, are to be held as of universal application, you might suggest about enough expeditions to keep the whole British Army employed for the next ten years, only to find the task as far as ever from completion.
Frontier questions can generally be dealt with on the principal of solvitue ambulando; and it seems rather premature to talk about the necessity of expeditions against a few ignorant Chins, while the Sekkya Mintha is still in force almost within a day’s ride of Mandalay, Sawlapaw still hiding in Eastern Karenni, Ootama still uncaptured, Poh Tok and Pho Tsaw still troubling their respective districts, the Chittagong Hill Tracts out of hand and perpetual rumours of troubles among the Arakan Hills. Our authorities have enough to do and we ourselves enough to pay for without thumping the war-drum every time there is a disturbance beyond the area of our immediate responsibilities. However nice these expeditions may be for officers thirsting for employment, distinction and promotion, I am surprised to find you among the Jingo prophets – or expounders of tenets, to use the literal signification of the word. I had rather see the press run a tilt against extravagance, against internal abuses, against imbecile taxation, than against the Chins, a much less serious evil of which time and patience may dispose. Yours Obediently, T.O. Jones
Dear Sir,
I have perused in the several telegrams and correspondence from Upper Burma which appeared in the Rangoon newspapers, that the word Boh has been used for a dacoit chief or leader. The word Boh, as I understand, is meant for an officer or warrior of rank, namely a General, Bohgyok. The word Boh is now so commonly used instead of the word gaung for a dacoit leader and if the Local Government will be pleased to cause the Burmese word Boh to be altered to gaung when used for a dacoit leader or Rebel Chief, it would not give the evil doers a high sounding title. I think that the word Boh prefixed to the name of a dacoit leader may excite or cause the ignorant to believe that it is indicative of some honour given, although undeservedly. I remember that during the 2nd Burmese war in 1853 that Nga Myat Toon, who seemed to have fought well, was called a Robber Chief or Dhameagaung; and in 1854 several Rebel leaders were known as Rebel Chiefs or Pongongaungmyo.
It would appear that in the present time every man, great and small in rank, whether he be a Myook, an Inspector or Constable of Police wants honours or expects rewards by promotion or increase of pay for killing or capturing dacoit gangs or bandit leaders. I would hope that if the Local Government of Burma will consider it well to stop the present system of giving large rewards from the public revenue for the capture of dacoits, that the names of dacoit leaders will not be heard or otherwise invented in the towns in Upper Burma.
I may add that in former days the Deputy Commissioners, with the assistance of Gyoung Gyoubs, Thurgyis, village Gaungs, Keaidangyis and Burmese Policemen, were the only means for hunting dacoits in the Tenasserim Division. The followers of the Deputy Commissioner then had dhas and flint guns for use. Gunpowder was plentiful and cheap, say a flint gun might be purchased at Rs. 3 to Rs. 3-8 each and powder from Rs. 1 to Rs. 1-8 per pound.
The Andamans was the only penal settlement for transportation of criminals. Thus dacoits were successfully hunted, captured, tried and punished; and dacoities put down by the then several Deputy Commissioners, Majors Tickell, Berdmore, Brown and others in the Tenasserim Division.
Timber and Rice trades were extensive and brisk in those day and Foresters with plenty of money.
Thanks to Mr Irwin, Deputy Commissioner and Mr Tucker, Superintendent of Police that dacoits and bad characters have been cleared out and dacoities suppressed in the Pegu District. I remain, Dear Sir, Yours faithfully, A LOOKER ON. Nov. 8th 1888.
Et Tu, Brute. 2
Sir, I have read with considerable interest the information that appears from time to time both in your columns and in those of Indian papers concerning our relations with frontier tribes. While I perfectly agree with you concerning the necessity of protecting those who, committed by Providence or the course of circumstances to our care, may be considered within the pale of civilization, and therefore within the limits which it is necessary we should safeguard life and limb, it seems to my somewhat imperfect understanding that this boundary is by no means conterminous with that forming the limit of our imperial sway.
If a man for the sake of gain, whether illicit or lawful, chooses to reside in localities where we do not implicitly or tacitly guarantee him against all molestation, it seems that the rule of caveat emptor might receive a more general application in the case suggested. If we hold that a man is bound to accept the consequences of purchasing goods when no warranty is given or implied, I hardly see why the man who elects to grow tea in the midst of the Singphos or to hunt rubber up the Chindwin, should expect the Government, that is, the taxpayer, to take any further trouble about him, except in removing him without compensation should his continued residence in such places threaten to become dangerous to either or any of the communities concerned.
The greater danger, the greater the profit; for a market dangerous or difficult of access is always a dear one, and the true commercial policy on which our national prosperity is funded, is that of buying in the cheapest and selling in the dearest market. The extra gain, which frequently is a double one, inasmuch that in these countries the trader buys local produce cheap and sells or barters imported goods dear, is a set-off to the danger, which is itself frequently the cause of the enhanced gain. A man who chooses to live in debatable land, should be allowed to do so at his sole rick and the sooner this idea is incorporated as a fundamental principle of Indian policy, the better. If he is ignorant of the danger, that is his look-out; ignorance of law or circumstance is no excuse. And it seems to me that the man who, when he has the chance of removing from these undesirable localities, as in the case of a few jungle Burmans along the Chindwin, to others within the practical pale of our protection, does so to a great extent, at his own risk.
If the principals lately included in the press, of interfering in all and sundry cases where people have gone into risky countries and therein suffered, are to be adopted, our empire can only be limited by collapse, or by the poles. Englishmen, and here I use the word in its broadest sense as implying rather British subjects with English ideas, are naturally venturesome, and if your arguments in re: the Chin business, are to be held as of universal application, you might suggest about enough expeditions to keep the whole British Army employed for the next ten years, only to find the task as far as ever from completion.
Frontier questions can generally be dealt with on the principal of solvitue ambulando; and it seems rather premature to talk about the necessity of expeditions against a few ignorant Chins, while the Sekkya Mintha is still in force almost within a day’s ride of Mandalay, Sawlapaw still hiding in Eastern Karenni, Ootama still uncaptured, Poh Tok and Pho Tsaw still troubling their respective districts, the Chittagong Hill Tracts out of hand and perpetual rumours of troubles among the Arakan Hills. Our authorities have enough to do and we ourselves enough to pay for without thumping the war-drum every time there is a disturbance beyond the area of our immediate responsibilities. However nice these expeditions may be for officers thirsting for employment, distinction and promotion, I am surprised to find you among the Jingo prophets – or expounders of tenets, to use the literal signification of the word. I had rather see the press run a tilt against extravagance, against internal abuses, against imbecile taxation, than against the Chins, a much less serious evil of which time and patience may dispose. Yours Obediently, T.O. Jones
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Mandalay News
The Law and Burmese examinations brought to Mandalay 64 examinees. Things went on merrily, especially for the hotels, who reaped the most benefit. I think it is a mistake that villages and small outlying stations should have to look after themselves in some cases for over a week, while their supposed guardians are being examined. Cannot out Government devise some means of having the examinations held at each district headquarters? Those of Bhamo, for instance, could easily pass there. However, the examinees, I suppose, have no objections to travelling, as it means a recess and I don’t see why I should object to it when they don’t. You must ere this have learnt of the sudden death of the late Mr Ffrorde, Deputy Commissioner of Sagaing, the cause being heart disease, which I have heard put down in his case to excessive smoking. His successor will have pretty brisk times of it, as the dacoit are said to be lively just now about the district, a large gang having crossed over lately. Besides Sagaing being a hilly country affords splendid shelter. Mr R.A. Gibson is to be congratulated on his promotion; he has worked hard from early to late and if anybody deserved the recognition of Government, he certainly does and we wish him a long and prosperous career. Major Cooke, the Deputy Commissioner, is do pressed with work that he is obliged to postpone cases from week to week, very much to the discomfort of those concerned; we are expecting Mr George, Asst. commissioner, from Pyawbwe, when matters will, it is to be hoped, take a different turn, but in the meantime cases have been pending for over a month and those accused who were unable to find bail are suffering in jail. The mornings are cool at present and blankets are being sought for eagerly in the shops, but whilst we are enjoyingth e mornings, the days and evenings are very hot, with dust flying everywhere to our great discomfort. |
English Policeman’s Widow
We hear that the Burmese widow of [a] deceased English Police Officer has recently gone to Calcutta with an ex-phoongi who was too ashamed of going back to civil life to remain in Rangoon. The ex-phoongi is said to be about 35 years of age and very popular with the fair sex, a number of fisher women set upon a young girl in Poozoondoung this week and gave her a severe shoe beating as they said she was the cause of his having been enticed away from Rangoon! The builder of the Kyong in which the phoongi stopped is also said to be greatly put out at the scandal and to attribute this and the loss of a ring he recently experienced, as a punishment for his having made an untrue statement in Court some months ago. Mr Jacobs The Railway prosecution case is over. Mr Jacobs is fined Rs. 50 for breaking the rules of the Railway and leaving his station without being relieved. It seems hard as the man had no proper quarters to live in and was supposed to stop with menials. It is said the Traffic Inspector was bitter against him as the previous Assistant was allowed to live in the station, the same quarters being refused to Jacobs. Jacobs intends pushing the matter further and petitioning the Chief Commissioner. Boxing We observe that the veteran boxer, Mr George Smith, who was here some 18 months ago, arrived yesterday per S.S. Chindwin, and intends to give some shows in the Assembly Rooms commencing on the 24th. Mr Hough received over charge of the Court of the Deputy Commissioner of Pegu and the District Treasury from Mr Irwin on the 12th instant. Sports Preparations are being made by Mr Carstairs, Headmaster of the School in Pegu, in clearing the ground adjoining the School house for the Boy’s sports at the approaching vacation. Subscriptions are being raised. |
Rangoon Racing
We subjoin a list of the winning owners at the Autumn Meeting:
We subjoin a list of the winning owners at the Autumn Meeting:
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Name
Mr Sutherland Mr Goodall Mr Charles Mr Daniell Moung Po Khine Shwe Choon Mr Donnan Mr Delphin Mahomed Ally Mr McDonald |
Winnings – Rs.
8,100 2,300 1,800 1,300 1,000 800 700 700 600 500 |
From this it will be seen that Mr Sutherland nearly won half of the money given away in stakes. His ponies won altogether twelve races, of which Embe won two bringing in Rs. 2,800. Pagan four, worth Rs. 1,900; while Schoolmaster, who was three times successful brought in Rs. 1,800. All Mr Sutherland’s ponies with the exception of The Duchess, scored a winning bracket for the Cardinal and gold. La Mascotte’s three wins makes Mr Goodlall second and Mr Charles and Mr Daniell come next in order, a position which the latter gentlemen owes to Slow Coach, who carried the black and gold to the front on three occasions.
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Thayetmyo News
14th Nov. The Municipality are constructing a flight of wooden steps from the surface of the river up to the road, almost opposite Dr. Frenchman’s residence, at the slope of the ghat where the daily ferry boat generally anchors; this, I presume, is a recompense to the public for all former inconveniences and perils often written about. These wooden steps are imbedded in the sand and are ten feet broad with railings on both sides. Our local convicts are executing this labour with Mr Mason as their Supervisor. Pegu Departure by Train Mr and Mrs Irwin and 2 infants left Pegu on the 14th instant by the morning down train for Rangoon en route for the Straits. Several officials, European and Burmese and the principal native and Chinese merchants were present at the Pegu Railway Station to see the Deputy Commissioner and his family leave and to wish them a speedy return to Pegu. |
Rangoon Port Trust
Excerpts from the Proceedings of the Two Hundred and Twenty Ninth Meeting of the Commissioners held at their office on Wed. 7th Nov. 1888: Read an endorsement by the Asst. Secy. to the Chief Commissioner, no. 793 P.D. dated 31st Oct. 1888 forwarding a copy of Burma Gazette Notification sanctioning a plan and estimate amounting to Rs. 6090 for constructing a godown to the west of the Latter St. wharf godowns for the storage of cutch etc. Resolved that the construction of this godown be entrusted to Mr P. Vertannes on the same terms as those on which he had agreed to construct and has constructed similar godowns for the Trust. Read a letter from the Port Officer no. 3784 dated 2nd Nov. 1888, forwarding an application from Mr T.E. Smith, Commander of the S.S. Avagyee, to be examined as to his qualifications for a special Pilot’s license for that steamer. Resolved that the Asst. Conservator of the Port be informed that the Commissioners sanction a committee being convened for the purpose. |
Irrawaddy Flotilla Company
News has been received that the I.F. Company Steamer Syriam, Capt. Mitchell, for the Rangoon-Bassein line, has passed the Suez Canal on her way out.
Under the direction of Mr Norton, summonses have been obtained by the Superintendent of Stamps, Rangoon, against the Manager of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, H.S. Hole, Commander of steamer Momein and G.M.S. Grant, another employee of the said firm, for breach of the Stamp Act in issuing unstamped receipts to passengers travelling by their boats.
News has been received that the I.F. Company Steamer Syriam, Capt. Mitchell, for the Rangoon-Bassein line, has passed the Suez Canal on her way out.
Under the direction of Mr Norton, summonses have been obtained by the Superintendent of Stamps, Rangoon, against the Manager of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, H.S. Hole, Commander of steamer Momein and G.M.S. Grant, another employee of the said firm, for breach of the Stamp Act in issuing unstamped receipts to passengers travelling by their boats.
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Kindat
6th Nov. The Chins have opened the ball rather early this season. They raided several villages in Kulay district and also a village in the Kubo valley. As trophies they have carried back a number of the heads of the men and women whom they killed. They have besides taken a good number of captives, about 80 it is said, to their mountain fastness while we are discussing the probable expedition to the Chins. It is rather a difficult matter to protect the length of frontier from Kubo valley to Gangaw – 70 to 100 miles, 7 or 8 marches – with troops. The inhabitants of the western bank of the Chindwin from Yeu to Kalaywa are very much scared of Chins. Tah Shons is the chief who commands several tribes on the mountains, from Yaw to the Manipur frontier. There are open many roads from the Chin mountain fastnesses to the plains which are inhabited by Burmans. These Burman villages are very isolated, sometimes a distance of 6 to 8 miles from each other. Unless speedy measures are taken they will become an easy pray for the Chins and before a sufficient number of troops or police arrive a good many villages will be raided and its inhabitants carried away captives to the mountains. The Chins are generally a hardy and warlike race. They have probably been stirred up by the mischievous and criminal Burmese who are now amongst the tribes and who are well acquainted with the planes and weakness of their brethren in their village home. The Sub-Engineer and Deputy Commissioner’s Offices have been temporarily fixed at Kalawa to push on mule roads from the Chindwin river to Indin near Kaleemyo which it is hoped to finish before the troops arrive. Mr Paul We hear that Mr A.L. Paul, the Agent and Attorney of the Oriental Telephone Company, is shortly expected in Rangoon from Calcutta. |
Recital
The organ recital on Thursday evening last was, considering other attractions, very well patronised. A new feature of the performance was the first appearance in public, of the members of the Rangoon Presbyterian Church Choral Union. This society was formed some six or seven years ago under the conductorship of the then organist Mr W.H. Wootton. Shortly before his death the union was disbanded, but soon after Mr Frank Sherriff’s appointment as organist of the Kirk it was resuscitated and has now been at work for the past two months. From the attendance at the last Recital the roll of active members is apparently not large, but their performances on Thursday evening was far above the average. The solos, duets and trios in “Athalie” were undoubtedly well sung and the choruses were evidence of constant and patient practice and able conductor-ship, and, redound the greatest credit on all concerned. Mr Sherriff gave his selections on the organ in his usual able manner... Mr Bailey’s high tenor voice displayed its good qualities in the recitation “Ye People” ... We cannot speak too highly of Mr Chandler’s solo. He was in perfect touch with all his numerous listeners ... Mr Bateman The Locomotive Superintendent of the Rangoon Steam Tramway, Mr Bateman, has, with his usual ingenuity, just converted an eight wheeled tram car into a four wheeled one, it being so constructed as to carry the same number of passengers as easily and every bit as comfortably. This means a great saving of expense in more ways than one and Mr Bateman deserves praise for the admirable manner in which he has succeeded in carrying out his plan, which was no doubt at first considered by many an utter impossibility. |
Lt. Beevor
The motive for the murder of Lieut. Beevor, R.E., at Hatigaing was solely plunder. The deceased was known to have drawn Rs. 18,000 the morning previous. It was thought this sum was in his treasure chest, the whole of it had been paid out to contractors and others, whose receipts and vouchers were in the chest.
Mr Lewis
We understand a suggestion has been made by the Deputy Commissioner of Rangoon to make Mr Lewis the Excise Officer of Hanthawaddy, in addition to his present duties, Mr Lewis is said to have entertained ideas of retiring and settling down to a pastoral and farming existence in the vicinity of Rangoon, but possibly this increase of his duties, responsibilities and salary will induce him to remain a little longer in Government employment. Doubtless he will be able to unearth a few illicit stills in the jungles of Hanthawaddy in the intervals of selling milk and farm produce to his fellow citizens in Rangoon.
Bank Employees
We hear that Mr F.A. Gillam, the late Agent of the bank of Bengal in Rangoon, has resigned his appointment and is at present superintending the purchase of Saw Mill machinery for Bhugwan Doss Rai Bahadur, to be erected shortly at Mandalay. We hope this will pay better than the Boronga Oil venture. We presume Mr A.M. Lindsay the present Agent will continue here, for a better selection could hardly be made.
The motive for the murder of Lieut. Beevor, R.E., at Hatigaing was solely plunder. The deceased was known to have drawn Rs. 18,000 the morning previous. It was thought this sum was in his treasure chest, the whole of it had been paid out to contractors and others, whose receipts and vouchers were in the chest.
Mr Lewis
We understand a suggestion has been made by the Deputy Commissioner of Rangoon to make Mr Lewis the Excise Officer of Hanthawaddy, in addition to his present duties, Mr Lewis is said to have entertained ideas of retiring and settling down to a pastoral and farming existence in the vicinity of Rangoon, but possibly this increase of his duties, responsibilities and salary will induce him to remain a little longer in Government employment. Doubtless he will be able to unearth a few illicit stills in the jungles of Hanthawaddy in the intervals of selling milk and farm produce to his fellow citizens in Rangoon.
Bank Employees
We hear that Mr F.A. Gillam, the late Agent of the bank of Bengal in Rangoon, has resigned his appointment and is at present superintending the purchase of Saw Mill machinery for Bhugwan Doss Rai Bahadur, to be erected shortly at Mandalay. We hope this will pay better than the Boronga Oil venture. We presume Mr A.M. Lindsay the present Agent will continue here, for a better selection could hardly be made.
Letters to the Editor
Mr Neville - Not a Tout
Dear Sir,
Nearly a column and a half of the Rangoon Gazette has been utilised for a would-be exposure of touting, but really for a personal attack on myself, with my advertisement as a text, which is considered of such importance as to induce the writer to invite the Hon’ble Mr Scoble’s attention thereto.
I am not now, nor have I ever been, a tout, in any sense, but I have been employed by a Barrister, who systematically employed touts and paid them out of his fees Rs. 20 to 35 per cent.
I have not set up as a lawyer, but am what I profess to be, a counselor simply. I fail to see how a Commission agent is in plain “Saxon” [a] tout, I am also told that my “Milesian” ancestors had no knowledge of the “genus” tout. A receiver is said to be as bad as the thief. I say that an employer of touts is more to be despised than the touts themselves. I would take action against the writer of the article on touts, but I know he is not worth the candle and is beneath contempt. I remain Sir, Your obedient servant, J.J. Neville, Counsellor, Commission Agent and Licensed Stamp Vendor. 16th Nov. 1888.
Mr Neville - Not a Tout
Dear Sir,
Nearly a column and a half of the Rangoon Gazette has been utilised for a would-be exposure of touting, but really for a personal attack on myself, with my advertisement as a text, which is considered of such importance as to induce the writer to invite the Hon’ble Mr Scoble’s attention thereto.
I am not now, nor have I ever been, a tout, in any sense, but I have been employed by a Barrister, who systematically employed touts and paid them out of his fees Rs. 20 to 35 per cent.
I have not set up as a lawyer, but am what I profess to be, a counselor simply. I fail to see how a Commission agent is in plain “Saxon” [a] tout, I am also told that my “Milesian” ancestors had no knowledge of the “genus” tout. A receiver is said to be as bad as the thief. I say that an employer of touts is more to be despised than the touts themselves. I would take action against the writer of the article on touts, but I know he is not worth the candle and is beneath contempt. I remain Sir, Your obedient servant, J.J. Neville, Counsellor, Commission Agent and Licensed Stamp Vendor. 16th Nov. 1888.
Editorial
Touting - Mr Neville
We hear than an aggrieved member of the local Bar actually tried to put the Government Advocate, who, we suppose, he thought had but little to occupy his time, in motion, to restrain our correspondent, Mr Neville from calling himself a “counsellor, commission agent and licensed stamp vendor. Our contemporary devoted 1½ columns of his space in a recent issue to the enormity of Mr Neville’s offence and the desirability of putting a stop to “touting.” We have heard that the Legal Practitioner’s Act, which he wishes to have put force in Burma, is virtually a dead letter in Calcutta and other places in India and it is a remarkable fact that practitioners from these favoured places have found it impossible to make a living there and have come in preference to Burma, where “touting” seems to be largely indulged in. If the lawyers are in earnest in the matter and refuse to pay commission to people bringing them cases, the evil might surely be curtailed very considerably, that is, if there is any unity amongst the profession. But, it seems to us, that the very people who indulge in tirades against “touting” when it suits them, are often the people who pay and employ touts and who would not be able to get any more business in Burma than they did in India without making such payments. The Gazette gives as a definition of the tout “one who takes clients to a lawyer and is rewarded by a commission of so much per cent on the fee.” There are other ways of rewarding than a mere “commission of so much per cent on the fee.” If the touts are to eb kept as clerks on monthly salaries for instance, it seems to us that there would not be any very great gain to morality from the alteration. The matter, it seems to us, is one which more nearly concerns the lawyers themselves than the public. If any cheating is practiced, the offender can be punished under the penal Code. If the lawyers are anxious for the introduction of the Legal Practitioner’s Act, we dare say a representation from them to that effect would bring about what they desire. But, It seems to us, if they are really in earnest in wanting to be delivered from “touts” they have the remedy in their own hands, without the necessity of any legislation on the matter.
Touting - Mr Neville
We hear than an aggrieved member of the local Bar actually tried to put the Government Advocate, who, we suppose, he thought had but little to occupy his time, in motion, to restrain our correspondent, Mr Neville from calling himself a “counsellor, commission agent and licensed stamp vendor. Our contemporary devoted 1½ columns of his space in a recent issue to the enormity of Mr Neville’s offence and the desirability of putting a stop to “touting.” We have heard that the Legal Practitioner’s Act, which he wishes to have put force in Burma, is virtually a dead letter in Calcutta and other places in India and it is a remarkable fact that practitioners from these favoured places have found it impossible to make a living there and have come in preference to Burma, where “touting” seems to be largely indulged in. If the lawyers are in earnest in the matter and refuse to pay commission to people bringing them cases, the evil might surely be curtailed very considerably, that is, if there is any unity amongst the profession. But, it seems to us, that the very people who indulge in tirades against “touting” when it suits them, are often the people who pay and employ touts and who would not be able to get any more business in Burma than they did in India without making such payments. The Gazette gives as a definition of the tout “one who takes clients to a lawyer and is rewarded by a commission of so much per cent on the fee.” There are other ways of rewarding than a mere “commission of so much per cent on the fee.” If the touts are to eb kept as clerks on monthly salaries for instance, it seems to us that there would not be any very great gain to morality from the alteration. The matter, it seems to us, is one which more nearly concerns the lawyers themselves than the public. If any cheating is practiced, the offender can be punished under the penal Code. If the lawyers are anxious for the introduction of the Legal Practitioner’s Act, we dare say a representation from them to that effect would bring about what they desire. But, It seems to us, if they are really in earnest in wanting to be delivered from “touts” they have the remedy in their own hands, without the necessity of any legislation on the matter.
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Train Collision
A collision, which, had it not been for the presence of mind of the guards and drivers of both trains, might have been attended with more serious results, happened at Hpogyee on Saturday last between the no. 16 down goods and the no. 7 up mixed trains respectively, on account of the carelessness of the points-man on duty, who turned the no. 16 down train on to the platform or main line, where the no. 7 up train was already standing, instead of on to the siding, which was clear and the proper line for the train. Ten wagons were derailed and considerably damaged, as also the engines of both trains. We have not heard of any of the passengers being injured but they must evidently have had, from all accounts, received a considerable shaking up. Dr. Marks who was among the passengers on his way for pastoral duty has, we understand, received a severe shock having been badly bruised but we sincerely hope that the learned Doctor will speedily get over it. The points-man who was responsible for this rather serious accident, has, we believe, been placed under arrest pending an investigation. |
Local News
Ponies Mr Petersen’s two ponies “Jim” and “Energy” and Mr Coia’s ”Lady Loch” were sent off by Friday’s mail steamer to Calcutta, under charge of Killick and Robinson. The latter also took “No Joke” which he bought at the sale of Mr Coia’s ponies after Saturday’s racing. Inspection Mr Innes, Traffic Superintendent of the Burma State Railway, returned to Rangoon from Toungoo on Friday night where he had been inspecting the new extension of the Toungoo-Mandalay Railway. Theft Two Eurasians named Vincent and Macnamara, respectively, the latter of whom is well known to the police, were arrested the other day by Head Constable Duncan, for the theft of two hens from a house in Sandwith Road belonging to Mr Lawrie and Assistant in the service of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company. |
Pyinmana News
The village of Kyouk-Kwet, a little more than two miles from here was attacked by a band of fifteen well-armed dacoits on the night of the 15th instant. The inhabitants unable or unwilling to pay the blackmail demanded were rather roughly handled, two women being tortured with fire; and finally the dacoits, whether through disappointment with their small booty or to pay off an old grudge, fell upon and butchered the headman and a friend of his, an ex-thurgyi. ... The information was delayed till next morning, hours after the dacoits had taken themselves off, so you won’t be surprised to hear that the parties of military and police who are looking for them still, have met with no success. ...
Capt. Tonnochy of the Railway Levy has gone to India to recruit three hundred men for the Shan Battalion of which he is to be the Commandant. The battalion will further be strengthened by an equal number of men from the Railway Levy, the pick of the force being taken, as the Levy is about to receive a draft of 300 Lower Burma Railway Police who are said to be old soldiers. Lt Anderson, Asst. Commandant of Military police, Pyinmana, has been given the command of the Levy and he is to be congratulated on his promotion, which we hope, is pucca; Mrs Toonochy accompanied her husband to India.
Mr Douglas, P.W.D., from Yemethin (sic) takes Mr James, Asst. Engineer’s place here, who goes on road-making to the Shan States. For the present Mr Douglas will retain charge of the Yemethin Division which extends as far as Pyawbwe northwards. From there to Myohla the other end of the section is a distance of rather more than 70 miles, much too large a charge for any one man, considering the amount of district road-making to be taken in hand.
Several residents of Pyinmana have joined the Burma State Railway Volunteers and all told now number about 13 men. They are attached to the Toungoo Company, the strength of which is close on ninety men. The Instructor comes up on Tuesdays and gives two drills which, I am glad to say, are well attended. I believe the new detachment contains a good many fair shots who will do credit to their corps.
The village of Kyouk-Kwet, a little more than two miles from here was attacked by a band of fifteen well-armed dacoits on the night of the 15th instant. The inhabitants unable or unwilling to pay the blackmail demanded were rather roughly handled, two women being tortured with fire; and finally the dacoits, whether through disappointment with their small booty or to pay off an old grudge, fell upon and butchered the headman and a friend of his, an ex-thurgyi. ... The information was delayed till next morning, hours after the dacoits had taken themselves off, so you won’t be surprised to hear that the parties of military and police who are looking for them still, have met with no success. ...
Capt. Tonnochy of the Railway Levy has gone to India to recruit three hundred men for the Shan Battalion of which he is to be the Commandant. The battalion will further be strengthened by an equal number of men from the Railway Levy, the pick of the force being taken, as the Levy is about to receive a draft of 300 Lower Burma Railway Police who are said to be old soldiers. Lt Anderson, Asst. Commandant of Military police, Pyinmana, has been given the command of the Levy and he is to be congratulated on his promotion, which we hope, is pucca; Mrs Toonochy accompanied her husband to India.
Mr Douglas, P.W.D., from Yemethin (sic) takes Mr James, Asst. Engineer’s place here, who goes on road-making to the Shan States. For the present Mr Douglas will retain charge of the Yemethin Division which extends as far as Pyawbwe northwards. From there to Myohla the other end of the section is a distance of rather more than 70 miles, much too large a charge for any one man, considering the amount of district road-making to be taken in hand.
Several residents of Pyinmana have joined the Burma State Railway Volunteers and all told now number about 13 men. They are attached to the Toungoo Company, the strength of which is close on ninety men. The Instructor comes up on Tuesdays and gives two drills which, I am glad to say, are well attended. I believe the new detachment contains a good many fair shots who will do credit to their corps.
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Local News
Hit and Run On Saturday evening a European driving in a dogcart knocked down an old man on Godwin’s Road Bridge. It may possibly interest the “Christian” who drove on without stopping to see if the old man was injured or not, that he succeeded in dislocating his shoulder. The injured man managed to drag himself along to the hospital, where his shoulder was put in its place. He is a mali in the employ of Dr. Marks, a fact we mention to give the gentleman a chance to make him some compensation for his injuries. Natives are, we allow, very slow and stupid in getting out of the way of vehicles, but it is not the “square thing” exactly for a man, who has driven over one of them, to make off without waiting to see whether he has been seriously injured or killed. Sinking The Government Steamer Amherst foundered about a week ago in the Pegu river on her way down to Rangoon. The vessel ran aground on a sandbank just before the time when the “bore” rushes up the river. The crew, it is believed, deserted her and the tidal wave catching her nearly broadside, almost capsized her, the water breaking over her sides and extinguishing her fires. Bring half filled with water she began to settle down and on the third day after she had struck she totally disappeared. |
Mr O’Donoghue
A military funeral took place at 4.30 p.m. yesterday [19th Nov.] of one O’Donoghue, a young apprentice at Insein. Deceased had been some 4 years a volunteer at Insein. He died of consumption. The Railway Volunteers furnished the funeral party commanded by Capt. B. Samuel. Mr Outhwaite Mr Outhwaite, late Postmaster of Thayetmyo, filed a petition against the Rangoon Gazette for defamation of character, in consequence of a paragraph which appeared under the heading of local and provincial news, in it issue of the 16th instant. The Assistant Magistrate, to whom the petition was presented, after reading the paragraph alluded to, stated that he considered there were no grounds for action and dismissed the petition. Railway Extension The Strand Road extension of the Burma State Railway is being rapidly pushed forward eastwards. It has now nearly reached Morton Street; when completed, this extension should be of great use to traders in that part of the town. We observe that some of the buildings leased as godowns on the Strand Road have apparently been turned into retail shops. This is somewhat hard on owners of property in the vicinity and if it had been publicly notified that the buildings are allowed to be used for purposes other than that for which they were originally rented, they would doubtless have been leased at better rents than were obtained. |
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Pokoku (sic)
18th Nov. During the past week or two Pokoku (sic) has been the seat of great activity and preparation. Troops and transport animals and stores of all kinds have been pouring in. Large convoys of carts with rations for provisioning the various posts that are to be held by our troops on the Chin Frontier have been leaving at regular intervals for Pouk, which is to be the base of supplies for the Frontier. On the 9th instant General Faunce with Captains Turner and Jones and also the Left Wing , 10th M.I., under Major Leader with Surgeon Robertson, came up from Pagan. These troops, with the troop of 1st Madras Lancers, form the Pouk Column. On the 13th instant the General and all the Officers going out with the Column were given a burra khana by the 1st Madras Lancers. The column, with its long line of baggage animals, extending to about two miles, marched out of Pokoku on the morning of the 14th instant. They were all in the best of spirits and as keen as razors; and this very naturally means in reference to Chins, that they can only get “shaves.” Except the operations are bungled, there will be no chance of drawing blood. Such an idea will, of course, be repudiated by our gallant warriors thirsting for honour and glory. The Deputy Commissioner accompanied the column to the borders of the district to arrange for transport and supplies. Moung Ket goes with the General from Pouk as a sort of semi-political officer and Mr Tydd, Myoke, (sic) takes Moung Ket’s place at Pouk. |
Rangoon
Three Siamese Princes, one a nephew and the other two cousins of the King of Siam, arrived here yesterday morning by the S.S. Africa from Singapore. Before going to Calcutta they intend paying Mandalay a visit. After a short stay in India they leave for Europe for a lengthened tour on the Continent after “doing” the principal countries including England, will return to Bangkok. Railways The undermentioned officers of the Toungoo-Mandalay Extension of the Burma State Railway were reported as surplus now that the Toungoo-Mandalay Extension is almost completed and their services are no longer required. The Government of India, Public Works Department, Simla, has called upon the Chief Commissioner, Burma, who has, in turn, directed the Manager and Engineer-in-Chief of the Burma State Railway to instruct them as they become available to report themselves for orders the Secretary to the Government of Madras: Messrs T.C. Beardsmore, Sub-Engineer, 2nd grade; T. McReddie, Sub-Engineer, 2nd grade, temporary rank; H. Martin, Sub-Engineer, 3rd grade; C.J. Rose, Supervisor, 1st grade and W. Millie, Supervisor, 1st grade. A confidential report upon the conduct and working, whether satisfactory or otherwise on Conductor W.M. Cargill, who is also available for transfer, is requested of the railway, to be forwarded to the Public Works department of the Government of India. Mr Outhwaite Mr Outhwaite made a second petition to the Asst. Magistrate against his case of defamation of character, against the Rangoon Gazette. The Magistrate said that he could not alter his decision and that the proper course for Mr Outhwaite to pursue was to obtain a copy of his decision and to make an appeal. |
Editorial
Municipal Voters List
The list of voters and persons qualified to sit as representatives on the Municipal Board, dated 1st October, is as we have already said, disgracefully incorrect. It bears the signature of the officiating Secretary of the Municipality, but according to the election rules, the President is the person who is to prepare and publish the list. Anyhow, whoever is responsible should be called upon to explain why the first list published, which was very much more correct, was altered by the omission of the names of many old residents. To mention a few of the mistakes, the names of Mr S. Balthazar, probably one of the wealthiest men, and one of the largest taxpayers in the town, is omitted. Mr P.C. Sen, once a Municipal Commissioner, has been altogether left out.
The name of Mr W. Bigge, First Judge of the Court of Small Causes is omitted. Mr A. Fraser, Capt. R.R. Winter, both of whose names appeared on the first list and who are men of property and old residents of twenty years standing in Rangoon, men who were Rangoon taxpayers when the Secretary of the Municipality and most of his underlings were in their cradles, are left out of the list altogether. In the one firm of Bulloch Brothers & Co. at Poozoondoung, the names of Capt. Winter, Messrs. Chandler, Sinclair and W. Mutter, are omitted and the name of another gentleman, who for the last 18 months has been in Akyab is included. The names of several people who are dead and of others who have not been in Burma for years, appear in the list whilst qualified residents on the spot are left out. It is not easy to see why such a mischievously incorrect list, which one would think had been framed on purpose, has been published. Seeing that they collect taxes regularly, surely the Municipality might have been able to frame with a very small amount of care and attention, a proper list, and, we think, the President is to blame for not seeing that the election Rules were properly carried out by his subordinates. This is an instance of how work is “shunted” in the east. The President, we presume, told the officiating Secretary to make the list, and he, in his turn, told someone else, but whoever is responsible the fact remains that the list is notoriously wrong and that it is a disgrace to the Municipal Committee who sanctioned its publication.
Municipal Voters List
The list of voters and persons qualified to sit as representatives on the Municipal Board, dated 1st October, is as we have already said, disgracefully incorrect. It bears the signature of the officiating Secretary of the Municipality, but according to the election rules, the President is the person who is to prepare and publish the list. Anyhow, whoever is responsible should be called upon to explain why the first list published, which was very much more correct, was altered by the omission of the names of many old residents. To mention a few of the mistakes, the names of Mr S. Balthazar, probably one of the wealthiest men, and one of the largest taxpayers in the town, is omitted. Mr P.C. Sen, once a Municipal Commissioner, has been altogether left out.
The name of Mr W. Bigge, First Judge of the Court of Small Causes is omitted. Mr A. Fraser, Capt. R.R. Winter, both of whose names appeared on the first list and who are men of property and old residents of twenty years standing in Rangoon, men who were Rangoon taxpayers when the Secretary of the Municipality and most of his underlings were in their cradles, are left out of the list altogether. In the one firm of Bulloch Brothers & Co. at Poozoondoung, the names of Capt. Winter, Messrs. Chandler, Sinclair and W. Mutter, are omitted and the name of another gentleman, who for the last 18 months has been in Akyab is included. The names of several people who are dead and of others who have not been in Burma for years, appear in the list whilst qualified residents on the spot are left out. It is not easy to see why such a mischievously incorrect list, which one would think had been framed on purpose, has been published. Seeing that they collect taxes regularly, surely the Municipality might have been able to frame with a very small amount of care and attention, a proper list, and, we think, the President is to blame for not seeing that the election Rules were properly carried out by his subordinates. This is an instance of how work is “shunted” in the east. The President, we presume, told the officiating Secretary to make the list, and he, in his turn, told someone else, but whoever is responsible the fact remains that the list is notoriously wrong and that it is a disgrace to the Municipal Committee who sanctioned its publication.
Thayetmyo News
19th Nov.
When the Bombay Burma Trading Corporation ran one of their launches to Simbaungway, the service was a daily one, excepting Sundays. The Irrawaddy Flotilla Company then started an opposition boat and ran daily including Sundays. The Company, I am old, purchased the Corporation’s stern wheeler Progress which was plying between Simbaungway and Meingoon, on the understanding that the launch plying between this place and Simbaungway should be removed; but after the sale was affected, the Flotilla Company has made the service every other day instead of a daily one, which is not so convenient to the Burmese who patronise these launches. Mr Pyne, who originated and carried out the project to the entire satisfaction and profit of his employers, and the Corporation, earned the blessing of the poor who are not so pleased with the Flotilla, as it has become known that they were the cause of stopping the running of the Corporation’s launches. It would be advisable if the Irrawaddy Steam Navigation Company which has recently started and which I hear has several new launches on the way out, would send up a launch or two to open up the country hereabouts. Passenger traffic pays well up here.
The Corporations launch that was taken off the Simbaungway run is now plying between this place and Allanmyo and is a great boon to the public. The Ferry contractors have arranged to pay Rs. 500 per month to the Corporation for its use. The Kadoe boatmen who had it all their own way before this, are now compelled to betake themselves to other climes etc. The journey to Allanmyo in these unsafe crafts, which occupied fully three hours, is now performed in less than an hour via Ynataung. The Corporation however stipulated for 5 runs both ways and are only running four times. If they used a little coal with the wood they burn, a higher pressure of steam could be maintained – but by using wood only it is very difficult to keep up steam – and the rate of speed is proportionately lessened.
Thayetmyo has not changed much within the past 3 years. The only change that can be noted is the organisation of the Municipality. Beyond changing their office from the Deputy Commissioner’s Court to a building opposite the Telegraph Office, the construction of a building for the Conservancy Officer and other minor works, there is nothing worth mentioning. But there are other things worthy of notice such as a nominal President, a real Vice president who is also Civil Surgeon. Superintendent of the jail, Sanitary Commissioner and goodness knows what else. The vice is the moving genius in this august body corporate, he is “the Municipality” the other members comprising that body are “Houk Bah Piahs” and “Jo Ookum Kadhawunds” everyone knows what that means, and it is not surprising to find that the Superintendent of the Thayetmyo Jail is Contractor in Chief to the Municipality, the acceptance of whose tenders are in the giving of the Vice president. This wholesale monopolising is certainly not in keeping with the principals of Fair Trade. Fair Play is bonnie play.
Unless something is done soon to change the present condition of things, petty contractors will have to take to fresh fields and pastures new. The road making and jungle clearing is now done by convict labour and the chief driver of these poor unfortunates is one Mr Mason who possesses vast experience in Engineering matters. He has the honour to be dubbed the Municipal Engineer. This is certainly a proper method of spending the rate payer’s money. Convict labour is generally much dearer than work given out to private contract, as convicts, as a rule, shirk work, and they cost 4 annas a head per diem, which generally increases expenditure. As a natural consequence at the end of this financial year the Jail will be in high glee at the large profits made at the cost of the Municipal funds or in other words, the taxpayers.
19th Nov.
When the Bombay Burma Trading Corporation ran one of their launches to Simbaungway, the service was a daily one, excepting Sundays. The Irrawaddy Flotilla Company then started an opposition boat and ran daily including Sundays. The Company, I am old, purchased the Corporation’s stern wheeler Progress which was plying between Simbaungway and Meingoon, on the understanding that the launch plying between this place and Simbaungway should be removed; but after the sale was affected, the Flotilla Company has made the service every other day instead of a daily one, which is not so convenient to the Burmese who patronise these launches. Mr Pyne, who originated and carried out the project to the entire satisfaction and profit of his employers, and the Corporation, earned the blessing of the poor who are not so pleased with the Flotilla, as it has become known that they were the cause of stopping the running of the Corporation’s launches. It would be advisable if the Irrawaddy Steam Navigation Company which has recently started and which I hear has several new launches on the way out, would send up a launch or two to open up the country hereabouts. Passenger traffic pays well up here.
The Corporations launch that was taken off the Simbaungway run is now plying between this place and Allanmyo and is a great boon to the public. The Ferry contractors have arranged to pay Rs. 500 per month to the Corporation for its use. The Kadoe boatmen who had it all their own way before this, are now compelled to betake themselves to other climes etc. The journey to Allanmyo in these unsafe crafts, which occupied fully three hours, is now performed in less than an hour via Ynataung. The Corporation however stipulated for 5 runs both ways and are only running four times. If they used a little coal with the wood they burn, a higher pressure of steam could be maintained – but by using wood only it is very difficult to keep up steam – and the rate of speed is proportionately lessened.
Thayetmyo has not changed much within the past 3 years. The only change that can be noted is the organisation of the Municipality. Beyond changing their office from the Deputy Commissioner’s Court to a building opposite the Telegraph Office, the construction of a building for the Conservancy Officer and other minor works, there is nothing worth mentioning. But there are other things worthy of notice such as a nominal President, a real Vice president who is also Civil Surgeon. Superintendent of the jail, Sanitary Commissioner and goodness knows what else. The vice is the moving genius in this august body corporate, he is “the Municipality” the other members comprising that body are “Houk Bah Piahs” and “Jo Ookum Kadhawunds” everyone knows what that means, and it is not surprising to find that the Superintendent of the Thayetmyo Jail is Contractor in Chief to the Municipality, the acceptance of whose tenders are in the giving of the Vice president. This wholesale monopolising is certainly not in keeping with the principals of Fair Trade. Fair Play is bonnie play.
Unless something is done soon to change the present condition of things, petty contractors will have to take to fresh fields and pastures new. The road making and jungle clearing is now done by convict labour and the chief driver of these poor unfortunates is one Mr Mason who possesses vast experience in Engineering matters. He has the honour to be dubbed the Municipal Engineer. This is certainly a proper method of spending the rate payer’s money. Convict labour is generally much dearer than work given out to private contract, as convicts, as a rule, shirk work, and they cost 4 annas a head per diem, which generally increases expenditure. As a natural consequence at the end of this financial year the Jail will be in high glee at the large profits made at the cost of the Municipal funds or in other words, the taxpayers.
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Oppenheimer & Co.
We hear that Messrs. Oppenheimer & Co. have been the successful tenderers for the supply of clothing for the officials and subordinates of the Burma State Railway for the year 1889 and that they are already commencing operations. We hope that they may be able to make decent fitting uniforms, which we cannot say the contractors for this this year, not only in our, but in the estimation also of several of the railway employees, have done, but we have no doubt that Messrs. Oppenheimer & Co. with their usual care and painstaking manner, will see that everything is carried out properly and to the entire satisfaction of all. |
Municipal Election
Of the present elected members, we believe, Dr. Marks, Messrs. Bateman, Lutter and Kearney offer themselves for re-election and we hear they have been nominated by their supporters, so there seems a prospect of a contested election. We have also heard the names of Mr H. Krauss and Mr W.A. Nicol mentioned as new candidates for next Thursday’s election. Mr Lewis Three seizures of opium were made by Excise Inspector Lewis on Tuesday night ... all inhabitants of Lanmadaw, all Burmans. |
Thayetmyo News
21st Nov.
Lt. Green, Asst. Commissioner of Linge District, arrived here a few days ago to undergo a training in Treasury work and has since returned to his Headquarters. There have been several new arrivals in this station since my last, some on tour and others on duty. Colonel Spearman, Commissioner of this district, arrived here on the 12th and was met on board the express mail steamer by Mr Perreau, Superintendent of Police.
Mr Bell, Inspector of Police surprises us with his energy and large powers of endurance of fatigue by giving a personal inspection of even the minutest things in his charge, He has already received the praise of some in the station and I shall be glad to hear that (when the present operations are closed) he will be favourably noticed and obtain his share of the honours that may be awarded.
As a most welcome addition to St. John the Baptist’s Church Choir appears Mr Rideout, who has kindly taken up the office of harmonist.
21st Nov.
Lt. Green, Asst. Commissioner of Linge District, arrived here a few days ago to undergo a training in Treasury work and has since returned to his Headquarters. There have been several new arrivals in this station since my last, some on tour and others on duty. Colonel Spearman, Commissioner of this district, arrived here on the 12th and was met on board the express mail steamer by Mr Perreau, Superintendent of Police.
Mr Bell, Inspector of Police surprises us with his energy and large powers of endurance of fatigue by giving a personal inspection of even the minutest things in his charge, He has already received the praise of some in the station and I shall be glad to hear that (when the present operations are closed) he will be favourably noticed and obtain his share of the honours that may be awarded.
As a most welcome addition to St. John the Baptist’s Church Choir appears Mr Rideout, who has kindly taken up the office of harmonist.
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Siamese Princes
The Siamese Princes, who are now here en route to Calcutta and Europe, paid a visit to the Chief Commissioner yesterday, being accompanied by Mr Andrews, Manager of the Bombay Burma Trading Corporation, who is also Consul for Siam in Rangoon. Their Royal Highnesses were also taken round by Mr Andrews to several placed of interest in the city and every attention that was possible has been shown to these distinguished visitors. |
Mr Travers Drapes
We understand that Mr G.F. Travers Drapes is not going to England after all, but purports returning from Bangalore after the installation of Lord Connemara as District Grand Master of Madras, a function to which His Lordship has sent Mr Drapes a special invitation as a leading Burma Freemason, as also to the subsequent banquet. |
Elections
It seems the Municipal Secretary did take the trouble to inform Mr Mower, the first voter who signed Capt. R.R. Winter’s nomination paper, that the latter was not eligible. We think the Secretary might have informed the nominee, in writing, himself of the President’s decision in the matter. Meanwhile, the town is deprived of the services on the Committee of an old resident of over 20 years standing in the place, who was on the first list, who has voted in every Municipal election since, simply because the President or his underlings have neglected to put his name on the second list, which was, never circulated in town and which Capt. Winter never saw until more than a month after its publication and when under their rules it was already too late to alter it.
It seems the Municipal Secretary did take the trouble to inform Mr Mower, the first voter who signed Capt. R.R. Winter’s nomination paper, that the latter was not eligible. We think the Secretary might have informed the nominee, in writing, himself of the President’s decision in the matter. Meanwhile, the town is deprived of the services on the Committee of an old resident of over 20 years standing in the place, who was on the first list, who has voted in every Municipal election since, simply because the President or his underlings have neglected to put his name on the second list, which was, never circulated in town and which Capt. Winter never saw until more than a month after its publication and when under their rules it was already too late to alter it.
Editorial
John William Granger
The trial of the solider John William Granger, for the wilful murder of two hill women in the ruby Miles district could, on the evidence before the Court, have had no other conclusion than the one arrived at, a verdict of guilty and a sentence of death. The apparent utter absence of any motive for this double murder of two inoffensive women, apparently induced one of the jurymen to consider that the accused was insane at the time and therefore not accountable for his actions. But of this there was no evidence and it will be an evil day for British rule and British justice, if ever the absence of a motive, which the prosecution is not bound to show, leads British jurymen to infer that a man who deliberately kills two women with a loaded rifle is from the fact, not accountable for his actions, and therefore not liable to the punishment of death, which the law lays down as the punishment for such crimes. We would particularly call the attention of our new fellow subjects in Upper Burma and we trust our vernacular contemporaries will do so also, to the honest endeavours of the British Government to do justice between man and man with fear, favour or affection. In the present instance, witnesses had to be brought at great expense, many hundreds of miles from the scene of the crime, to give their evidence in Rangoon, in the only Court, by which, as a European British Subject, the prisoner could be tried. The relatives of the two murdered women were among them and they must carry back to their distance homes, on the confines of Upper Burma, an account of their travels and how British justice, though sometimes long delayed, eventually overtakes the wrong-doer, even though he wears the uniform of his country, and would from that very fact under the late Burmese rule have probably been screened from punishment. We may often fail, for humanity, even British humanity is frail, but it is good that our caster subjects shall know and appreciate the fact that we try to do even-handed justice and that Englishmen are no more above the law than Burmans or other races but that all nationalities are equal before it. Considering that Mandalay has a large European population and that there should be no difficulty in getting a competent European jury in that city, we think the Commissioner’s Court there, might be made the Court for the trial of criminal offences committed by European British Subjects in Upper Burma, rather than the Recorder’s Court. The delay and expense of bringing witnesses and prisoners so far is great and with European jurors available in Mandalay, there should be no necessity of incurring it.
John William Granger
The trial of the solider John William Granger, for the wilful murder of two hill women in the ruby Miles district could, on the evidence before the Court, have had no other conclusion than the one arrived at, a verdict of guilty and a sentence of death. The apparent utter absence of any motive for this double murder of two inoffensive women, apparently induced one of the jurymen to consider that the accused was insane at the time and therefore not accountable for his actions. But of this there was no evidence and it will be an evil day for British rule and British justice, if ever the absence of a motive, which the prosecution is not bound to show, leads British jurymen to infer that a man who deliberately kills two women with a loaded rifle is from the fact, not accountable for his actions, and therefore not liable to the punishment of death, which the law lays down as the punishment for such crimes. We would particularly call the attention of our new fellow subjects in Upper Burma and we trust our vernacular contemporaries will do so also, to the honest endeavours of the British Government to do justice between man and man with fear, favour or affection. In the present instance, witnesses had to be brought at great expense, many hundreds of miles from the scene of the crime, to give their evidence in Rangoon, in the only Court, by which, as a European British Subject, the prisoner could be tried. The relatives of the two murdered women were among them and they must carry back to their distance homes, on the confines of Upper Burma, an account of their travels and how British justice, though sometimes long delayed, eventually overtakes the wrong-doer, even though he wears the uniform of his country, and would from that very fact under the late Burmese rule have probably been screened from punishment. We may often fail, for humanity, even British humanity is frail, but it is good that our caster subjects shall know and appreciate the fact that we try to do even-handed justice and that Englishmen are no more above the law than Burmans or other races but that all nationalities are equal before it. Considering that Mandalay has a large European population and that there should be no difficulty in getting a competent European jury in that city, we think the Commissioner’s Court there, might be made the Court for the trial of criminal offences committed by European British Subjects in Upper Burma, rather than the Recorder’s Court. The delay and expense of bringing witnesses and prisoners so far is great and with European jurors available in Mandalay, there should be no necessity of incurring it.
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Minbu News
17th Nov. The river has fallen to its lowest and stammers now anchor some three miles from the station, this, of course, is a great inconvenience to passengers, more so, as we haven’t a decent road; I believe the authorities are at last on the move and are now on the verge of commencing a metalled road down to the ghat. The Deputy Commissioner has done out again in the district after the troublesome dacoits, he was among us for a few days when the examinations in Law and Burmese were being held. Mr LaTouche, our Commissioner, returned from Rangoon by the last mail; his visit to Rangoon was to meet the Hon. Mr Scoble, with whom he traveled up; Mrs LaTouche, who accompanied him, has remained behind. Telegram - The Burma Ruby Mines London 23rd Nov. The Government have invited tenders for the working of the Burma Ruby Mines, six have been received, the highest being twelve lacs annually; a decision will be given on Tuesday. Akyab Father Amandolini left today by the Euphrates for Europe, after labouring here for eight years; crowds of friends and parishioners assembled on the pier and went on board to bid him a sad adieu. The Catholics feel their loss very much, as he had endeared himself to his flock which will be left for some time without a pastor. 23rd Nov. 1888 Mr Kennedy The Burma says that Mr William Kennedy, formerly the Agent of the B.I.S.N. Co. at Moulmein, and a much respected resident there, is expected in Messrs. P. Henderson’s steamer Irrawaddy, due in Rangoon in a few days. Mrs Frederics Yesterday in the Court of the Asst. Magistrate, one Mrs Frederics of 38th Street, filed a petition for maintenance against her husband, a clerk in the Controller’s Office. Petitioner stated that she was married in 1883 and since that time her husband had consistently ill-treated her; two weeks ago he had turned her out of the house, with her two children, for going to a picnic against his wishes. She said her husband was drawing pay to the amount of Rs. 150 per month and had refused to make her any allowance. Summons was granted. Myles Standing & Co. Any of our readers desirous of sending Christmas Cards to their friends abroad could not do better than pay Messrs. Myles Standing & Co. a visit; they have exposed a splendid collection of them, suitable to all tastes. The same firm had also on sale the “Yule Tide” which is an exceptionally good number and well worth the small charge made for it. |
Bhamo News
Do you think that a sentry who spreads a false alarm and frightens the whole town so that actually many Burmans fled in boats to the island for safety, ought to be hanged? For I do. On Monday night the sentry outside the north gate of the fort, shouted and howled and on being questioned as to what was up, said he had been attacked by a band of Kachins and in defending himself he had broken his bayonet in one man. Certainly his clothes looked as if torn in a struggle and the broken bayonet was found on the ground close by; naturally this caused great excitement and alarm, and all the Military and Police patrolled all about the place, but could find no one. The poor Kachins in the encampment near the tennis court had a sorry time of it, as everyman found lying down was overhauled to see if he had been wounded. I hear the sentry is to be tried by court-martial, and I hope he will receive a adequate sentence. Mr Styan, the Asst. Superintendent of Telegraphs, is up here, hard at work on the Bhamo-Mogoung telegraph line. He has a nice little job before him and I hope he will enjoy it. There is nothing new from Mogoung. Two more boats were attacked the other day and some of the crew killed. I am afraid the river between Bhamo and Moung is in a very disturbed state and that travelling by boat will not be safe until the country has been cleared of all the blackguards. Po Saw is still at Kamein and interfering terribly with trade. Why he has not been cleared out of this long ago, is one of those things no fellow can understand. However, his time is approaching and I do hope some friendly bullet will find its billet in his body. He is a thorough blackguard and until he is killed the country will not quiet down. Barring the excitement spoken of above, Bhamo itself is very quiet. New buildings are springing up all over the place; the Burmans are getting more confidence and seem to think that we really can protect them and are building a better class of houses. The P.W.D. is also hard at work. A new Post Office is nearly finished; the foundations of the Court House are being laid and the new Lock-up is progressing slowly. In the fort the Officers quarters are being put up and the holes for the posts of the married quarters have been dug. All these quarters should be ready in three or four months and in time for the new Regiments when they arrive. Everyone is anxious to know whether any ladies are coming with either the Hampshire or the 17th B.I. The Bhamo Municipality has been running now for some time but as yet not one single road has been touched by it. The roads, as they always have been, are a disgrace to the place. I hear the Municipality has asked Government to give it money to put the roads in order and that the Municipality will then take them over and keep them in repair. The Municipality is not only content to leave the roads alone but allows great heavy logs to be dragged along them. You can well understand how this sort of thing improves them. 15th Nov. |
Editorial - The Municipal Election
We publish this morning the address of five of the new candidates for Municipal Commissionerships. They are men of position and property in the place and, we believe, from what we have heard, the voters will support them in preference to the four Commissioner who have been nominated for re-election by a few of their admirers and two of whom, are apparently, mere nominees of the Tramway proprietary and the Municipal establishment whose income tax they proposed to pay, than representatives of the public. Mr Dawson is one of the oldest residents in Burma, known both here and in Moulmein as an out-spoken public spirited citizen of unbounded energy and self-reliance; Mr Coath is a much younger man, equally out-spoken and fearless, who has now been some years in Rangoon and a Mechanical Engineer of standing, whose experience should be of value on the Municipal Board; Mr Nicol is also an old resident, thoroughly acquainted with the wants of the town and the hardships experienced by the Burmese and other residents under our present land laws and Municipal system. He would be able to explain with fluency and ease any doubtful point to the Burmese Commissioners and would be likely to carry them with him in any views he and his brother Commissioner adopt. Mr Peppin is another old resident owning a large amount of landed property, both in town and Cantonments and of great experience of our wants and requirements in Rangoon. Dr. DeSouza has a large medical practice in Rangoon and a good knowledge of Municipal doings in Bombay where he long resided. He will, we think, make an excellent working member and is quiet unassuming manners make him popular wherever he is known. Mr Rowett has also been nominated and, we believe, has a good chance of election, which he would probably have improved had he made his views public. Dr. Marks is the only other candidate who had published any kind of an address. He is well known in Rangoon and will, doubtless, obtain a good many official and possibly Cantonment votes. There are many people in Rangoon, we understand, who think that a Municipal meeting without Dr. Marks, would be something like the play of Hamlet with the principal character omitted. We believe Dr. Marks has not much chance of re-election and that his fellow Commissioner have no chance whatever. They have all been weighed in the balance and have been too often found wanting. We want new blood on the Municipal Board and we believe we shall get it.
We publish this morning the address of five of the new candidates for Municipal Commissionerships. They are men of position and property in the place and, we believe, from what we have heard, the voters will support them in preference to the four Commissioner who have been nominated for re-election by a few of their admirers and two of whom, are apparently, mere nominees of the Tramway proprietary and the Municipal establishment whose income tax they proposed to pay, than representatives of the public. Mr Dawson is one of the oldest residents in Burma, known both here and in Moulmein as an out-spoken public spirited citizen of unbounded energy and self-reliance; Mr Coath is a much younger man, equally out-spoken and fearless, who has now been some years in Rangoon and a Mechanical Engineer of standing, whose experience should be of value on the Municipal Board; Mr Nicol is also an old resident, thoroughly acquainted with the wants of the town and the hardships experienced by the Burmese and other residents under our present land laws and Municipal system. He would be able to explain with fluency and ease any doubtful point to the Burmese Commissioners and would be likely to carry them with him in any views he and his brother Commissioner adopt. Mr Peppin is another old resident owning a large amount of landed property, both in town and Cantonments and of great experience of our wants and requirements in Rangoon. Dr. DeSouza has a large medical practice in Rangoon and a good knowledge of Municipal doings in Bombay where he long resided. He will, we think, make an excellent working member and is quiet unassuming manners make him popular wherever he is known. Mr Rowett has also been nominated and, we believe, has a good chance of election, which he would probably have improved had he made his views public. Dr. Marks is the only other candidate who had published any kind of an address. He is well known in Rangoon and will, doubtless, obtain a good many official and possibly Cantonment votes. There are many people in Rangoon, we understand, who think that a Municipal meeting without Dr. Marks, would be something like the play of Hamlet with the principal character omitted. We believe Dr. Marks has not much chance of re-election and that his fellow Commissioner have no chance whatever. They have all been weighed in the balance and have been too often found wanting. We want new blood on the Municipal Board and we believe we shall get it.
Editorial - Myingyan News
I have ascertained that the Military authorities at Mandalay recently ordered about 285 men to be transferred from this place by a Flotilla cargo steamer, the Pekin, to Pokoko (sic) to take part in the Chin expedition. There was plenty of room on board the steamer and they might have gone as ordinary passengers if they had been shipped as such. It seems the carriage of 125 men only is contracted for on board these cargo steamers. Instructions from the Rangoon Manager arrived informing the Agent he was not to ship more troops than 125, the contract number, and that if Government wanted to send over that number they just charter a special steamer. Accordingly the Pekin left with only 125 men and although there was room on her Flat for at least another 80 and the journey only occupies a few hours; the remainder of the men, 160, who had been marched down returned to barracks till the next day, when the Ava chartered in Mandalay, came in and took them to Pokoko. The Ava was chartered with the view of bringing up troops from Minbu and Salin to Pokoko, but on arrival there it was found that thee has been sent up by ordinary steamers. Government have thus had to pay Rs. 5000 to take 160 men a few hours journey who, if they had they been shipped as ordinary passengers would have paid Rs. 160 only.
It seems strange that the Irrawaddy Flotilla, which had made such a splendid thing out of the annexation, should act in this way. It seems killing the goose for the sake of the egg. The Military authorities, I hear, are furious at the treatment they have received, nor is this a solitary instance I am told. Had the Government listened to your suggestions, made some months ago, and advertised for carriage for troops and stores they would have insured very different treatment. Even now this policy should be adopted. Not only the Government, but every trader on the river would hail the advent of other boats with delight as tending to reduce extravagant freights and encouraging shipments. I should not be surprised if the Government of India called for a report of this Myingyan business, for, I believe, Sir George White has reported it to the Commander-in-Chief. 19th Nov.
I have ascertained that the Military authorities at Mandalay recently ordered about 285 men to be transferred from this place by a Flotilla cargo steamer, the Pekin, to Pokoko (sic) to take part in the Chin expedition. There was plenty of room on board the steamer and they might have gone as ordinary passengers if they had been shipped as such. It seems the carriage of 125 men only is contracted for on board these cargo steamers. Instructions from the Rangoon Manager arrived informing the Agent he was not to ship more troops than 125, the contract number, and that if Government wanted to send over that number they just charter a special steamer. Accordingly the Pekin left with only 125 men and although there was room on her Flat for at least another 80 and the journey only occupies a few hours; the remainder of the men, 160, who had been marched down returned to barracks till the next day, when the Ava chartered in Mandalay, came in and took them to Pokoko. The Ava was chartered with the view of bringing up troops from Minbu and Salin to Pokoko, but on arrival there it was found that thee has been sent up by ordinary steamers. Government have thus had to pay Rs. 5000 to take 160 men a few hours journey who, if they had they been shipped as ordinary passengers would have paid Rs. 160 only.
It seems strange that the Irrawaddy Flotilla, which had made such a splendid thing out of the annexation, should act in this way. It seems killing the goose for the sake of the egg. The Military authorities, I hear, are furious at the treatment they have received, nor is this a solitary instance I am told. Had the Government listened to your suggestions, made some months ago, and advertised for carriage for troops and stores they would have insured very different treatment. Even now this policy should be adopted. Not only the Government, but every trader on the river would hail the advent of other boats with delight as tending to reduce extravagant freights and encouraging shipments. I should not be surprised if the Government of India called for a report of this Myingyan business, for, I believe, Sir George White has reported it to the Commander-in-Chief. 19th Nov.
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S. Philip’s East, Rangoon - Presentation
At the close of the Sunday School on Sunday last, the Rev’d. W.B. Sisam in the name of the teachers and children, presented a handsome time-piece to Mr C.E. Maidment who is shortly leaving for Poona to be married. The present was purchased with money subscribed by the children who, one and all, appreciate Mr Maidment’s kindness as Superintendent of the School. Mr Sisam, speaking for the teachers and children, as well as for himself, wished Mr Maidment every happiness in his future life and expressed the hope that when he returned to Rangoon he would resume his old post. Mr Maidment briefly thanked all present and it was quite evident that there was the kindliest feeling towards him among those he has been teaching. |
Death
Lance Corporal Robinson, a promising young soldier of the 2nd Leicesters, was drowned on Sunday morning in the tank near the Ordnance Artificer’s Lines, on the north side of the Pagoda, the police were dragging for the body all Sunday and it was not recovered until 7 p.m. near the place where the accident occurred. The body was completely dressed and it is evident that he fell in while making his way long the path on the east side where the bank slopes sharply and is very rugged and uneven. This is the fourth person that has been drowned in this tank in the last two years. A board should be put up to warn people against bathing there as the water is very deep and filled with weeds which has been the cause of more than one death. ABL note: A later entry gives his name as Johnson and describes the nature of his death. Please see below:- |
Lance-Corporal Johnson, (not Robinson) of the Leicestershire Regiment who was drowned in the tank N.E. of the Pagoda, was buried last night [27th Nov.] with military honours in the Cantonment Cemetery. We have since learned the following particulars of the accident.
There had been a bathing party made up among the men of the Regiment and all the others had finished their bath and had gone away with the exception of the deceased and two brothers Faithful, one a Sergeant and the other a drummer boy. They had swum once across the tank and were re-crossing it again when the boy, who was in the middle, saw the deceased, on the right of him, suddenly throw up his hands and sink with a cry. The other two swimmers, being exhausted, could render no help. Information was brought to the police at about 5 o’clock and they dragged for the body without success until it became dark.
On Sunday [25th Nov.] they resumed their attempt and about 7 o’clock managed to get up the corpse, which having been 26 hours under water, was somewhat decomposed. There was a wound over the right eye which is believed to have been inflicted by the grappling iron. The knees were slightly bent, the feet stretched out in a line with the leg and the arms drawn in close to the sides, evidently showing that the man has been attacked by cramp.
There had been a bathing party made up among the men of the Regiment and all the others had finished their bath and had gone away with the exception of the deceased and two brothers Faithful, one a Sergeant and the other a drummer boy. They had swum once across the tank and were re-crossing it again when the boy, who was in the middle, saw the deceased, on the right of him, suddenly throw up his hands and sink with a cry. The other two swimmers, being exhausted, could render no help. Information was brought to the police at about 5 o’clock and they dragged for the body without success until it became dark.
On Sunday [25th Nov.] they resumed their attempt and about 7 o’clock managed to get up the corpse, which having been 26 hours under water, was somewhat decomposed. There was a wound over the right eye which is believed to have been inflicted by the grappling iron. The knees were slightly bent, the feet stretched out in a line with the leg and the arms drawn in close to the sides, evidently showing that the man has been attacked by cramp.
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Posting on the Burma State Railway
Mr Beeston, is already placed in charge of the first Division of the Mogoung Bhamo Railway Surveys, while Mr Bagley? is the Executive Engineer in charge of the 2nd Division. Mr W.E. Newham, Executive Engineer and Sergeant Sylvester are ordered to report themselves at Mandalay before the end of the current month. The following officers have been posted to the Second Division of the Mogaung Bhamo Railway Survey from the 5th Division of the Toungoo Mandalay Extension viz M.H.S. Guinness, Executive Engineer, F.W. Roberts, Asst. Engineer, Mr Jenkins, Overseer, Babu Kusi Pudra Maitra, Overseer, Mr Old, Overseer, Mr R. Strachey, Asst. Engineer and Mr B yning (sic) Overseer, are posted to the 1st division of the new railway surveys. |
Pegu
Mr Hodgkinson, C.S.I., Commissioner of the Pegu Division, left by morning train yesterday for Pegu to hold Sessions there. Letters to the Editor Sir, In your paper today, you print a letter from your Meingyan (sic) correspondent wherein he makes certain statements which you endorse in a leading article. Regarding these statements, permit me to tell you that the steamer Ava did not carry any soldiers and that the story of our being paid Rs. 5000 for conveying 160, or any other number of men, from Meingyan to Pokokoo (sic) is entirely without foundation. Yours faithfully, George J. Swann, General Manager, Irrawaddy Flotilla Co. 26th Nov. 1888 |
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Poungday News
26th Nov. Wedding - Nicholls : Martin I had the honour of being present at the wedding of an old friend at the Railway town of Insein on Wednesday evening last; the contracting parties being Mr Nicholls of the P.W.D. and Miss Martin of Insein. The ceremony was performed in the local church by the Rev’d. Dr. Marks, who very kindly had some of his warblers present to render the service a choral one. After the knot was indissolubly tied and favours were dispensed by the winsome bridesmaids the happy couple drove off to receive their guests with much of their happiness reflected in their eyes. The guests were not long in following, not did it occupy much time in creating a comfortable looking gap in the ample and well decorated cake, which testified to the excellence of the dainty and the good attendance on the occasion. A friends of the bridegroom’s arose to propose the health of the newly married pair and having darted a fierce glance around him and craved attention for a short space, he spoke of the merits of his old friend the Bridegroom; testifying to his worthiness to be entrusted with the scared trust of woman’s happiness and deploring the stern dispensation which had decreed himself to ever be a bachelor forlorn. The speaker then gave utterance to some very bold words, evidently in much fear and trembling, seeing that the herculean form of the groomsman was not very far from him. He said, he envied his friend his happiness. Providentially his friend was engaged at the moment breathing soft blandishments into the ear of his newly acquired bride and seemed disposed to sink all minor considerations in the vortex of his intense happiness. The brother of the Bride spoke to the many virtues of his sister in a few pithy words. The ladies now retired in order to deck themselves in ball-room attire and to assume the wherewithal to ensure the discomfiture of their rivals and achieve fresh conquests. The gents amused themselves as best they could until the bewitching ones again made their appearance on the scene; when the band struck up and dancing began and was kept up with spirit till the small hours of morning. It did the heart of a wicked old sinner like me good to behold so much happiness around: There, for instance was our friend – well I don’t exactly know his name – giving expression to the overwrought feelings of his bosom through the keyholes of an eloquent penny whistle. There, again, was that sceptical and blood thirsty individual known among his enemies as Nesbitt; who with mirth rippling on his countenance, smiled benignly on the assembled guests in a manner he is but seldom wont to do. There was neither the usual desperation perceptible in his looks not frenzy in his eyes; he looked the picture of happy contentment and scattered smiles about him with profuse liberality: You know not, bold man; that I had my eye on you!! but I had! and well may I say to you in the words of the songster – “Thy bright smile haunts me still.” There was also friend Martin the elder, who in the absence of Schuyler the brave, assumed command of that gallant officer’s invincible blowers, using his wand to some purpose. The invincibles themselves blew both wisely and well, covering themselves with glory and doing a share of execution among the whisky bottles. The arrangements were excellent and everything I am glad to say went off well. The hearty manner in which their guests participated in the pleasures provided for them, no doubt, contributed considerably to the happiness of the bridge and Bridegroom. |
Mandalay News
If things were as the ought to be and not as they are, Pintha and Maymyo would be fine places to live in and enjoy the salubrious air. The officials of Mandalay in order to starve the “Pretender Prince” and his satellites up in the Maymyo subdivisions gave strict orders to the Guards at Toungho, at the eleventh mile station on the Maymyo road and at Kwetnappa, the river route station, to stop all provisions from being sent up to Pintha and stations upwards. This, no doubt, may be a wise step taken by Government to starve the “Pretender” out, but they have sorely miscalculated the mischief caused by the restriction, villages of loyal subjects are starving for want of rice, coolies that were sent up by contractors to carry out P.W.D. works on the Maymyo road and who were largely advanced are returning and in the long run Government will be the greatest sufferer; these very loyal subjects seeing how they are treated, with their wives and children starving, will naturally say “I may as well turn a dacoit, for one satisfaction at least that I’ll get my pot full.” Mr Robertson, the Engineer in charge of the Maymyo division, is down here trying to get this obnoxious order rescinded. He has a large sum sanctioned for various works for this official year, and unless he gets labourers and contractors it will be impossible to complete the work by the end of March next when he would be called upon for an explanation. Now all these would be obviated by an immediate cancellation of the obnoxious order. A fourth batch of 120 Military Police and a company of Madras Infantry started from Pintha on Saturday, 17th instant, accompanied by 25 coolies to dislodge the “Pretender Prince” from his stronghold; from what information I could obtain from the Inspector and others, they think it simply absurd for a handful of men being sent out to storm a stronghold on a hill. The enemy instead of wasting ammunition simply let boulders down which do the work equally and effectually as shot and steel. What is really wanted and you will find my prediction true, is that at least five companies of Goorkhas should be sent, these are hillmen and they are the boys to oust their brother hillmen; besides a Burman ranks a Goorkha next to a European in pluck; for Madrasees and Punjabees they simply treat them with scorn and laugh at the idea of such men being sent against them. In order to illustrate their contempt I will just relate a fact told to me in the present of a large crowd, by an official about the beginning of the current month. While this official, in the company of another, in a higher grade, were out skirmishing with Mounted Police, not far from Pintha they came to a halt, while the men were eating one of the ponies strayed away, the official in charge ordered two Punjabees to secure the pony which was grazing on an opposite hill. They succeeded in capturing the beast and were bringing him back when two Burmans stepped out of the bush and deliberately shot them dead. The officials were eye witnesses and immediate orders were given to scour the place with the usual result, nothing. In the towns we see flaming accounts, 2 Bohs and 50 dacoits killed and wounded, our casualties nil, but people at out stations tell a different tale altogether, especially those who have to bear the heat and burden. 22nd Nov. Messrs. Jacob & O’Connor A European by the name of Jacob, who has lately been admitted into the Town Police Force, unfortunately managed to get himself into a row in a boarding house in Fraser Street on Monday night with a travelling vendor of [a] variety of goods, named O’Connor, receiving a bottle on the head. No charge, we hear, has been preferred against the assailant. |
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Prome News
As it may be of some interest to the readers of your journal to hear of an encounter we had with a tiger in the very heart of the town I send you the following particulars. This morning I was aroused between the small hours of three and five by hearing the great commotion in our house, which was caused by a strong deputation of Burmans, headed by one of our popular residents, Mr Anderson, (senior) who came to tell us of Mr Stripes having paid his house a visit and of his occupying the ground floor of an adjoining house and to ask our assistance. On hearing this, Mr Redmond and I started out with our Martini Henry’s, with bayonets fixed. We arrived at the spot, which was about a couple of hundred yards from our office, to find a large number of Burmans, some of whom were armed, looking out for the aforesaid gentleman. As his domain was somewhat dark, we could not see him, except an occasional flash of his eyes, so we had to wait till it was daylight to begin the attack. Mr Redmond spotted the animal first and fired, thereby disabling him, after which, independent firing began between us, i.e. Mr Redmond and I, which resulted in the brute being killed. Mr Anderson said he fired a shot at the beast with a Snider before calling for our assistance, but on examination afterwards three Martini Henry bullets were found lodged in his head and four or five about the neck and chest, being the total number of shots fired. Before firing began, he made himself known by an unearthly roar while attacking a Burman (broker) whom he killed. It was reported another Burman lodged on the roof of his house received a bullet shot which stuck him on the back and ran downwards causing a flesh wound, he was immediately conveyed to the hospital for treatment and is now doing well. I believe this tiger accompanied by his mate was seen by some Burmans crossing the river in the early part of the night while they were in a boat doing likewise; the animals came quite close to the boat and a woman who was steering dealt one of them a blow thinking they were bulls. The tiger, it is said, drew the covering from a man who was sleeping in the boat and deposited it on shore a few yards away from our office. They were both seen to cross but the tigress returned leaving her better half to seek his prey. We are in expectation of meeting his bereaved partner some fine day on the hills alongside, where we intend seeking her. The animal measured 8’ 6” 26th Nov. 1888 |
Trespassing
A native of India named Abadoo Balee was found yesterday morning in the bedroom of a house occupied by Mr Sherlock Hare, Barrister-at-law. Mr Hare was sitting in his room upstairs and hearing a noise in his bedroom went in to see who was there and found the man mentioned above putting on some clothes which he had taken out of the almirah. He handed him over to the police. Commissioners for the Port of Rangoon Excerpts from the proceedings of the Two Hundred and Thirtieth meeting of the Commissioners. The Vice-chairman, having reported that Assad Ali, Mohram Ali and L. D‘Silva had been examined in the Rules of the Port ... and had been pronounced qualified to have charge of steam launches plying within the limits of the port. Resolved that certificates be granted in the usual form. Read a letter from the Asst. Conservator of the Port, dated 14th Nov. 1888, forwarding an application from Mr R. Hoare, Commander of the P.S. Rangoon, to be examined as to his qualifications for a special Pilot’s License for that steamer. Resolved that the Asst. Conservator be informed that the Commissioners sanction a Committee being convened for the purpose. Read a letter from the Asst. Conservator dated 13th Nov. 1888 intimating that he and Mr Guinness, the Engineer of the P.S. Firefly, have examined the steam launch Patrol and suggested that the repairs required by the vessel, which are estimated to cost Rs 800, be carried out under Mr Guinness’ supervision. Resolved that the Asst. Conservator be informed that the Commissioners sanction the repairs to the Patrol being executed under the superintendence of Mr Guinness at a cost not exceeding Rs. 800. Read a letter from the Asst. Conservator dated 15th Nov. 1888 forwarding the proceedings of a Committee convened to examine Mr T.E. Smith, Commander of S.S. Avagee as to his qualifications for a Special Pilot’s License for that steamer. Finding of the Committee – The Committee having duly considered the answers given by Mr T.E. Smith to the several questions put to him, is of opinion that he is qualified to hold a Special Pilot’s License for the S.S. Avagee. Resolved that a Special Pilot’s License be granted to Mr Smith. |
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Letters to the Editor
Municipal Elections Sir, Ratepayer has done me the honour to reply to my letter in the columns of the Rangoon Gazette, whilst Decent, in your own columns, thinks that Municipal Servants as tax-payers should have votes. I did not wish to deprive them of votes, but they might, at any rate, imitate the decent conduct of their President, who however he intends to vote, is not rushing about in the public stores and other places and trying to get electors to vote for the men who wanted to give him Rs. 500 house and horse allowance. Naturally enough Messrs. Short, Hall, Wales, Clark and Pedley want the election of Marks and Bateman, who had the cool effrontery at the time they were increasing the water tax of the poor, to try and spend taxes in paying the Income Tax of these already highly salaried Municipal Servants. These men are offering themselves for election tomorrow and I trust the voters of electors will show them that they are altogether mistaken in the opinions they have formed of the capacity of electors. Their election would, in my opinion, be a disgrace to the community. Not only were they prepared to fling away public taxes in paying the Income Tax of Municipal Servants but one of them in the pay of Mr Darwood and the other indebted to him for assistance to his school, they wished to further hand over Rs. 600 per month to their master and supporter of the people’s money, because Mr Darwood had signed a foolish contract! If Rangoon citizens do not tomorrow show their abhorrence of such indecency they will deserve all that such men and their like, would doubtless have in store for them. I cannot inform Ratepayer how many times Mr Peppin has been summoned, or how many times he has appealed unsuccessfully. Judging from the recent proceedings in the Recorder’s Court and from the constant prosecutions in the Magistrate’s Court of other, there is nothing from the fact of Mr Peppin having been summoned, against his proving a fit representative. He looks keenly after his own rents, I believe and if as our representative he looks as keenly after ours, we shall have no cause to complain. I do not think he would be likely to try and fritter away taxes of the poor to relieve the well-to-do, like Mr Darwood and the Municipal employees. What electors have principally to consider, I believe, is that the four Commissioners seeking re-election have not been a success. There are six others from whom to choose five representatives. They may be as bad as the old lot, but they may be a success. At any rate, not one of them has been guilty of conduct, such as I have described and which can only be characterised as INDECENT. |
Editorial
Municipal Elections It is not surprising to find that our contemporary supports the re-election of four Municipal Commissioners, Dr. Marks, Messrs. Bateman, Lutter and Kearney and apparently on the ground that they are well acquainted with the working of the Municipal system. Dr. Marks is eulogised as an educationalist, a man of sound judgement, boundless energy and great oratorical powers; not one single word is said of his and Mr Bateman attempting to give Mr Dawson Rs. 600 per month out of Municipal funds or trying to get the Income Tax of Municipal officials paid from the same source. Now as regards their income and position, Municipal servants are certainly very much better off than men of the same standing in Government employ. It behoves every Government servant, we think, and every private person also, who pays Income Tax, to show today their opinion of the proposal to pay the Income Tax of men better off than themselves out of taxes paid by them and to the largest extent by the poorer classes in still worse positions. If this is what we may expect from men of “sound judgement, boundless energy and great oratorical powers,” we think, the electors will be glad to be saved from such specimens of these excellent qualities. The Gazette’s only objection to Mr George Dawson is, that business engagements so often require his presence in Moulmein, that he could hardly do justice to Municipal duties. We wonder whether Mr Dawson has been oftener to Moulmein in the past 12 months than Dr. Marks, the Gazette’s favourite, [who] has been to Tavoy, Mergui, Prome, Pounglay and Insein. If we are to choose men of absolute leisure, men who do nothing as Municipal representatives, it seems to us, we might as well have the dummies our present representatives have so often proved themselves. We have not heard of the “loud professions of reform and a desire to set the world right generally” as having been expressed by any of the new men. They are undoubtedly correct in their address that reform is desirable and that the Municipal system at present in vogue, has some very undesirable features. It will be for the voters today to express themselves as to whether they are of the same opinion, or whether they again desire the return of Dr. Marks and his humble followers, the present representatives. |
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Henzada News
During the last few days we have been favoured with several visitors, among others, Colonel and Mrs Spearman and Miss Sutherland, who arrived here in the 23rd instant. Mr Todd Naylor also favoured us with a flying visit. ... Our worthy Deputy Commissioner intends going on furlough shortly and everyone is setting his wits to work to find out who will relieve him. I believe it is a toss up between Mr Adamson and Mr Hough. Our popular Municipal Engineer, Mr Phipps, on the occasion of his own and grand-daughters birthday gave a garden party followed by a Cinderella, interspersed with music and songs; of which several were of his own composing and the music by other members of his talented family. But it is very hard to satisfy some people, for all who went are wishing that birthdays came oftener than one a year. 28th Nov. The Rangoon Rowing Club Regatta comes off on the 8th Dec. Among the events is a double sculling race for ladies but which does not seem to have filled well. Mrs Halliday and Miss Ransom are looked upon as pretty certain to win and they seem to have rather frightened other ladies from entering for the race. |
Burma Ruby Mines
London 28th Nov. A Concession for working the Burma Ruby Mines has been granted to Messrs. Streeter & Co. who will pay a rent of Rs. Four lakhs annually to Government, besides one sixth of profits. The Chin Levy The Levy to be raised immediately for the defence of the Chin Frontier will be composed of six companies of Hindustanis of 100 privates each with the following establishment, which has been sanctioned by the Government of India. Monthly Rates of Pay ... Lieut. R.M. Rainey, Burma Police, has been nominated to command the Levy. The Assistant Commandant will be nominated by the Chief Commissioner, Burma. Immigrants 1200 coolies arrived yesterday morning on the Secundra from Madras and Coast Ports. What becomes of all out immigrants? If they take up their abode in Rangoon does the Municipality collect their dues from these men and are their names duly recorded on the voters lists? |
Voting List
The names of two more of our well-known townsmen have been omitted from the voting list. Capt. Samuel Fennimore Case, author of the famous poem “The Captain and the Hyena,” and Mr A.R. Whyte of the well-known firm of Messrs Rowe & Co. It was amusing to witness the disappointed and aggrieved look of the Tax-payers, Mr Whyte, when he was told he had no vote, and the giggling countenances of the Tax gathers who conveyed this pleasing intelligence to that gentleman – one of the Municipal Assistants was heard to remark at the time this scene was being enacted that the compiling of the Voting List was a work of 6 months – we hope this gentleman’s salary is paid according to “results” and not by the calendar month.
The following is the result of the voting:
The names of two more of our well-known townsmen have been omitted from the voting list. Capt. Samuel Fennimore Case, author of the famous poem “The Captain and the Hyena,” and Mr A.R. Whyte of the well-known firm of Messrs Rowe & Co. It was amusing to witness the disappointed and aggrieved look of the Tax-payers, Mr Whyte, when he was told he had no vote, and the giggling countenances of the Tax gathers who conveyed this pleasing intelligence to that gentleman – one of the Municipal Assistants was heard to remark at the time this scene was being enacted that the compiling of the Voting List was a work of 6 months – we hope this gentleman’s salary is paid according to “results” and not by the calendar month.
The following is the result of the voting:
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DeSouza 149
Rowett 134 |
Lutter 115
Coath 114 Marks 105 |
Kearney 96
Dawson 96 Nicol 94 |
Peppin 86
Bateman 78 |
These first five will, of course, be the elected members of the European Community. ... When the names were read out Mr Norton, President, called upon Mr DeSouza, as heading the poll, to say a few words, when that gentleman spoke as follows:
Gentlemen, I thank you very much for the great honour you have done me in electing me as one of your representatives in Municipal matters. On an occasion like this one is expected to say and promise a good deal but I fear you will be somewhat disappointed. I however promise you this, that I shall use my best endeavours to promote and secure your interests and those of the community to the best of my ability. I shall make it my chief duty to act in matters brought before the Board to promote the best interests of the people of Rangoon and with the assistance of my colleagues I hope to bring to a satisfactory issue all the subjects that will be discussed before us. I thank you again, gentlemen, for the confidence which you have placed in me and I will do my best to render myself worthy of the honour you have conferred on me.
Gentlemen, I thank you very much for the great honour you have done me in electing me as one of your representatives in Municipal matters. On an occasion like this one is expected to say and promise a good deal but I fear you will be somewhat disappointed. I however promise you this, that I shall use my best endeavours to promote and secure your interests and those of the community to the best of my ability. I shall make it my chief duty to act in matters brought before the Board to promote the best interests of the people of Rangoon and with the assistance of my colleagues I hope to bring to a satisfactory issue all the subjects that will be discussed before us. I thank you again, gentlemen, for the confidence which you have placed in me and I will do my best to render myself worthy of the honour you have conferred on me.
Judicial
Post Office Act.
Yesterday the case of Jaganathan, a despatcher of the Sorters’ Dept. for the Maulmein (sic) and Madras mails, was tried before the Asst. Magistate under section 48 of the Post Office Act. on a charge of robbing mail. The case was instituted in consequence of a letter that appeared in our issue of 29th which stated that the writer had seen the clerk in charge of the mails open one of the pamphlets under his case. Mr Doyle, Cashier of Messrs. Hegt & Co. being examined stated that he had seen the accused, while passing in a gharry, tear a wrapper off a pamphlet, which seemed to belong to the mail in his charge, and that he ordered the Durwan of the firm to pick up the fragment which the accused had thrown down. Baboo Khan stated that acting under instruction received, he had searched the house of the accused and found a portion of a wrapper that exactly fitted to the shape picked up by order of Mr Doyle. Mr Hynes, the Postmaster General and Mr Heysham, the Postmaster, were also examined, the latter identified the wrapper by the post-mark as belonging to the Maulmein mails. The case was adjourned for hearing to the 2nd inst. Mr Temple appears for the defence.
Yesterday the case of Jaganathan, a despatcher of the Sorters’ Dept. for the Maulmein (sic) and Madras mails, was tried before the Asst. Magistate under section 48 of the Post Office Act. on a charge of robbing mail. The case was instituted in consequence of a letter that appeared in our issue of 29th which stated that the writer had seen the clerk in charge of the mails open one of the pamphlets under his case. Mr Doyle, Cashier of Messrs. Hegt & Co. being examined stated that he had seen the accused, while passing in a gharry, tear a wrapper off a pamphlet, which seemed to belong to the mail in his charge, and that he ordered the Durwan of the firm to pick up the fragment which the accused had thrown down. Baboo Khan stated that acting under instruction received, he had searched the house of the accused and found a portion of a wrapper that exactly fitted to the shape picked up by order of Mr Doyle. Mr Hynes, the Postmaster General and Mr Heysham, the Postmaster, were also examined, the latter identified the wrapper by the post-mark as belonging to the Maulmein mails. The case was adjourned for hearing to the 2nd inst. Mr Temple appears for the defence.
The 8th Criminal Sessions opens on the 19th instant with the officiating Additional Recorder as the officiating Judge; up to the present time there is one murder case against John William Grander and two theft cases against two Mahomedans.
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Execution at Mogoung
The two rebels, Mound Nyon and Moung Shwedike, have been recently executed at this remote station for waging war against the Queen. The morning broke dim and misty. From an early hour a sonorous and doleful knocking was heard as the last touches were being out to the scaffold. As soon as Reveille had sounded and the quarter-guard gate opened a stream of Burmans – male and female – many of whom were relatives of the condemned men, was seen filing in. The eyes of all, the females especially, were red and swollen as if from continued weeping. Permission was asked from the Battery Commandant to allow the phoongyees to enter the stockade and preform the last rites of Buddhism for the condemned. Leave was at once granted them. Soon a large procession was seen approaching from outside. At its head were a number of women carrying carpets and fruit for the phoongyees; being the women marched a crowd of Burmans, for the most part friends and relatives, all eager to bid a last farewell to the condemned men. Scattered among the crowd might be seen a few Chinese attracted either by curiosity or sympathy. The phoongyees, closely wrapped up in their yellow robes with large palm-leaf fans in their hands, brought up the rear. The women quickly spread the carpets on the ground opposite the guard where the prisoners were confined and the phoongyees squatting, tailor fashion, on them, commenced to recite what appeared to be the prayers for the dying. Fervent responses were given by the assembled Burmans – all on their knees. The prisoners looking ghastly pale were, at the request of their relatives, allowed to be present and make their final obeisance to their priests. The prayers lasted for about 10 minutes, when the phoongyees precipitately retreated and the condemned men were marched back to their cell and allowed to say farewell to their wives and friends; the women indulging in the most heartrending cries. Soon the “fall in” sounded and the men were quickly on parade and the death sentence read to the prisoners who, all through the trying scene, had preserved an utterly callous demeanour. Their arms having been pinioned and the guard with fixed bayonets fallen in, the sad procession wended its way to the place of the executions; the spot fixed on being that of the fight in which the men were captured. Immediately on arrival guards were thrown out on all sides, facing outwards from the scaffold. The prisoners at once, without faltering, mounted the steps. Their legs were then pinioned, ropes adjusted, caps put on, the platform drawn away and in one minute from their arrival at the scaffold their souls were in eternity. Death in both cases was instantaneous. The bodies were allowed to hang for the usual time and were then handed over to their relatives for burial. |
Charged
Mr Stuart, Stationmaster and Mr Bejamen, Signaller at Pyuntaza, were charged by Mr Miller, Traffic Inspector, before the Deputy Commissioner of Shwegyin, sitting at Nyongla Bin, on 1st instant, with breach of Section 27 of the Railway Act. The latter was fined Rs. 50 but the former electing to call witnesses the case was postponed for that purpose. We reserve comment on this matter until judgement has been given. Theft Judgement was given last Saturday by the Junior Asst. Magistrate in the case of Secunder a native who was charged with theft which occurred on the 4th October. The complainant, Moung Myoh Nyoin, stated that he was about to go ashore from a steamer when a number of Chulliahs came on boar and that he identified the accused as one of them that took the bag from his pocket which contained Rs. 10-6-0, he then laid hold of him by the hand when the accused handed the bag over to another man who made off with it, the accused was then handed over to the Police. This evidence was corroborated and accused was found guilty and sentenced to two years rigorous imprisonment and thirty stripes, three months of the sentence to be solitary confinement. In the same court, judgement was given in the case of Nga Shwe Gou who was charged with theft on the 20th October last. The facts of the case were, the accused entered the house of one Joseph Belfurry at about one in the morning, the wife of the complainant awoke, she saw a person in the room and got alarmed and work her husband, who got up and laid hold of the accused; he managed to get off and jumped over from the window into the street and was running away when complainant and one Antony chased him; he was, however, arrested by a Police Constable who was passing by at the time; he was twice formerly convicted for the same offence, he was sentenced to two years rigorous imprisonment and 30 stripes. Mr Johannes George Johannes, who states he is a Greek, living in 32nd Street, was charged before the Asst. magistrate with house trespass by Po Shan, a Burman Constable, living in the same Street. The prisoner, in his defence, said that he saw the complainant enter his house about 8 o’clock while sitting in his room, and that he seized a dah and ran after the man who ran away and followed him into his house and seized him. He took the dah for protection. He had lately been robbed of Rs. 200. The case was postponed until the 7th. |
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Railway
Mr Stuart, Stationmaster and Mr Bejamen, Signaller at Pyuntaza, were charged by Mr Miller, Traffic Inspector, before the Deputy Commissioner of Shwegyin, sitting at Nyongla Bin, on 1st instant, with breach of Section 27 of the Railway Act. The latter was fined Rs. 50 but the former electing to call witnesses the case was postponed for that purpose. We reserve comment on this matter until judgement has been given. Rangoon The case of Jaganathan of the Post Office, for opening a pamphlet belonging to the Moulmein Mail was resumed yesterday. The prisoner pleaded not guilty. He was committed to the Sessions. Mr Booth The case of Mr Booth, late clerk on board the I.G.S. Irrawaddy, was resumed on Wednesday in the Court of the Deputy Commissioner, Messrs. H.R. Jones, Clerk, Comptroller’s Office and G.J. Bough, 1st Officer, I.M.S. Enterprise, were recalled and further documentary evidence was put in. The case was then adjourned for 14 days for issue of a commission to examine Mr Ford of I.M.S. Bhamo. Theft Four conservancy cartmen were tried in the Junior Asst. Magistrate’s Court on Saturday last for criminal misappropriation. ... a box belonging to one Kaloo, containing property to the value of rupees 60, was stolen from his house ... The box and some clothing were found lying at the back drainage space between 36th and 37th streets ... Mr Roberts, Conservancy Officer, came to know of the fact and warned them to give up the property which they handed over to him after a time. They were sentenced to one month’s rigorous imprisonment each. Mr Johannes Judgement was yesterday morning delivered by the Asst. Magistrate in the case of the man Johannes, who was charged about a fortnight ago with criminal trespass, said to have been committed on the 8th October last, the Magistrate finding the accused not guilty, he was discharged. |
Arrest
Mr R.J. Harrison, Customs Officer, arrested Private Baba Saib of the 15th Madras Infantry, passenger by the S.S. Ellora, having in his possession two bundles of Ganja concealed in his haversack, the accused will be tried by the Asst. Magistrate. Thefts The cook room at the Mayo Sailors’ Home was broken into during the night of the 10th instant and all the copper cooking utensils, valued at about Rs. 30, taken away, the thieves left a small crowbar being them. Sunassi, a servant, was found guilty of stealing a silver watch and a pair of gold earrings, the property of Mr Dodd, living in 40th Street, and sentenced to three month’s rigorous imprisonment by the Asst. Magistrate. Telegrams Mr Moylan Appeal – Counsel for the Recorder Mr O’Kinealy of the Calcutta Bar and Mr Fox of Rangoon have been briefed for the Recorder in Mr Moylan’s appeal. The Court re-opens on Friday next and an early day will be fixed for the hearing of the appeal. Telegrams - Mr Moylan On the re-opening of the Court, Mr Woodroffe on behalf of Mr Moylan applied for an early day for the hearing of the appeal; Mr Pughe for the Recorder asked for some time and it was eventually ordered that Wednesday week be fixed for the hearing. Assault In the Asst. Magistrate’s Court yesterday, a Eurasian named George Macdonald, whose name has before figured in our columns, was convicted of assaulting a Burmese girl called Mah Htai and sentenced to pay a fine of Rs. 2-8. Vagrants Two vagrants named Castello and Vogel were charged before the Asst. Magistrate yesterday and each sentenced to undergo seven days rigorous imprisonment. |
In the District Court of Shoaygyeen
In the case J.L.D. Stuart, Stationmaster at Pyuntaza and G. Benjamin, Signaller, are sent up for breach of Sec. 25 of the Railway Act. As regards Benjamin there is incontestable evidence to prove that he was drunk on duty, as he himself admits the fact. His drunkenness does not seem to have been likely to endanger the safety of persons travelling, as there are two other Signallers also on duty, and he is fined Rs. 50 under the first part of the section, with the alternative of seven days’ rigorous imprisonment. It is not necessary to comment more on this part of the case except in so far as his conduct affected the action of the second accused.
As regards Station master Stuart the evidence as to whether he was drunk or not is conflicting. Sergt. Instructor Jenkinson was at the Station on 17th October and says he heard a scuffle and went out and found the Stationmaster beating Ticket Collector Thomas. Jenkinson then tried to interfere but was ordered by the Stationmaster to leave the place; afterwards another scuffle was heard and Jenkinson says that he found Stuart struggling with Benjamin and on his interfering was pushed 3 or 4 steps; Stuart seems to have been violently excited and Jenkinson, apparently, made matters worse by laying down the law and having a good deal of unnecessary talk. Stuart then seemed to have tried to get at Benjamin, who by this time, had locked himself in the room and on trying to get at him broke one or two panes of glass and cut his hand severely and thereby became covered in blood. Jenkinson was again ordered to leave the Station but refused to do so and a fight seem[ed] very nearly to have ensued between the Stationmaster and Jenkinson, who states that the Stationmaster was drunk; meanwhile, news seems to have reached the Head Constable, Mr Wells, that a fight was going on at the Station. He went there and Stuart, who was covered in blood, informed him that the Station had been taken charge of by the Military (apparently meaning Sergt. Jenkinson) and when Wells told him there was no Military, he replied that he would make it over to the quasi-Military Police; Wells then went to the telegraph office to send a telegram to the Traffic Inspector and Stuart then turned Benjamin out of the office and struck him in the face, thereupon Benjamin returned the blow and they were separated.
The Stationmaster then refused to give “line clear” to allow the trains from Nyoungla Bin and Daiku to come in and in consequence of this refusal they had to remain there for some considerable time. The Myoke was the sent for and arrived about 1.15. The Myoke requested Stuart to give “line clear” but he refused to do so unless the platform was cleared for him, although, with the exception of the persons above mentioned and the station staff with a few passengers, there does not appear to have been anyone to clear off. The Myoke then telegraphed to Daikoo and Noyungla Bin (sic) saying that the Stationmaster was drunk and directing trains to proceed with caution.
Previous to the Myoke coming, Mr Wells had telegraphed to the traffic Inspector to say that “Stuart was drunk” and I have put the Asst. Stationmaster in charge, but this was not done as the Asst. Stationmaster was away down the line although expected by the train that was detained at Daikoo, a telegram was sent to correct the former one and orders received that Benjamin was to take charge and give “line clear,” as Benjamin was drunk, he also could not take charge and shortly after Crow, the Assistant Stationmaster arrived and “line clear” was sent to Nyoungla Bin and the train came in.
In the opinion of the Myoke and Mr Wells, the Stationmaster was drunk and in the opinion of Crow also, he was drunk, as regards other evidence as to the alleged drunkenness , of the 5th witness, Verrapen, a Signaller, says the Stationmaster was not intoxicated, but by his actions, one thought he might be drunk.
The Stationmaster seems to have written two telegrams; one “Station is placed in Military charge” which was taken back by him; and another “station drunk, how to act” substituted. 6th witness, another Signaller, says Mr Stuart was steady because he did not drink; his opinion apparently being that the Stationmaster was not drunk.
Witness no. 7, Berry, Guard of the ballast train, says he saw Stuart who came to him and said “See Berry what they have done to me, I have been mobbed.” Berry says he considers Stuart was sober as he was very much excited at the time.
The Railway Hospital Asst. examined Stuart at 3 p.m. and pronounced him sober and says he could not, in his opinion, have been drunk at 12 o’clock. I have given all this evidence most careful consideration and do not consider that Stationmaster Stuart was drunk at the time although his acts and manner would, until a regular investigation was held, lead people to suppose that he was. What especially struck me during the trial was his perfect recollection of every fact and his ability to explain every trifling circumstance. Had he been the worse for liquor he could not possibly have done this. He was in a most excited state having just had a struggle with Ticket Collector Thomas and Signaller Benjamin and having severely cut his hand and I do not think that wither Mr Wells or the Myoke were wrong in interfering and reporting him to Headquarters, as, in their opinion he was drunk.
Stuart’s explanation of his refusing to give “line clear” is that he deliberately made up his mind not to do so as he knew he was not drunk but also knew both Wells and the Myoke had pronounced him drunk and reported him as such and that [if] it was afterwards proved that he was drunk and had given “line clear” when in that condition he could have been prosecuted to a conviction under the latter part of Sec. 25 for doing an act that would be likely to endanger the safety of passengers.
I dare say the Stationmaster had a good deal of trouble that morning as pay seems to have been distributed the previous day and a good deal of drinking seems to have gone on amongst the subordinate staff. Most of the complication seems to have been the result of Mr Stuart’s acting in a most improper manner in taking the law in his own hands, first in assaulting Ticket Collector Thomas and then engaging in a struggle and fight with Signaller Benjamin who was drunk. He then seems to have been beside himself with rage and to have lost his head and afterwards to have refused to give “line clear” on the idea that, as he was considered drunk he would, if he did so, lay himself open to a conviction. Assistant Stationmaster Crow seems to have acted most improperly in entering the arrival of the ballast train as if he himself had received it. Whereas, at the time the train arrived, he was apparently miles away down the line; I have brought this to the notice of the Traffic Inspector who acted as prosecutor. I consider that Stationmaster Stuart performed his duty in a most improper manner in using personal violence towards both Thomas and Benjamin. It is one of the first duties of a Stationmaster to preserve order and had he acted as he should have done and placed the men under arrest and if necessary called in the assistance of the Police, he would both have quelled the disturbance and maintained his own dignity. Under Section 25 of the Railway Act., J.L.D. Stuart is fined Rs. 50 in default to suffer 7 days rigorous imprisonment. (Signed) George Alexander, District Magistrate. Shoaygheen, 8th Nov. 1888.
In the case J.L.D. Stuart, Stationmaster at Pyuntaza and G. Benjamin, Signaller, are sent up for breach of Sec. 25 of the Railway Act. As regards Benjamin there is incontestable evidence to prove that he was drunk on duty, as he himself admits the fact. His drunkenness does not seem to have been likely to endanger the safety of persons travelling, as there are two other Signallers also on duty, and he is fined Rs. 50 under the first part of the section, with the alternative of seven days’ rigorous imprisonment. It is not necessary to comment more on this part of the case except in so far as his conduct affected the action of the second accused.
As regards Station master Stuart the evidence as to whether he was drunk or not is conflicting. Sergt. Instructor Jenkinson was at the Station on 17th October and says he heard a scuffle and went out and found the Stationmaster beating Ticket Collector Thomas. Jenkinson then tried to interfere but was ordered by the Stationmaster to leave the place; afterwards another scuffle was heard and Jenkinson says that he found Stuart struggling with Benjamin and on his interfering was pushed 3 or 4 steps; Stuart seems to have been violently excited and Jenkinson, apparently, made matters worse by laying down the law and having a good deal of unnecessary talk. Stuart then seemed to have tried to get at Benjamin, who by this time, had locked himself in the room and on trying to get at him broke one or two panes of glass and cut his hand severely and thereby became covered in blood. Jenkinson was again ordered to leave the Station but refused to do so and a fight seem[ed] very nearly to have ensued between the Stationmaster and Jenkinson, who states that the Stationmaster was drunk; meanwhile, news seems to have reached the Head Constable, Mr Wells, that a fight was going on at the Station. He went there and Stuart, who was covered in blood, informed him that the Station had been taken charge of by the Military (apparently meaning Sergt. Jenkinson) and when Wells told him there was no Military, he replied that he would make it over to the quasi-Military Police; Wells then went to the telegraph office to send a telegram to the Traffic Inspector and Stuart then turned Benjamin out of the office and struck him in the face, thereupon Benjamin returned the blow and they were separated.
The Stationmaster then refused to give “line clear” to allow the trains from Nyoungla Bin and Daiku to come in and in consequence of this refusal they had to remain there for some considerable time. The Myoke was the sent for and arrived about 1.15. The Myoke requested Stuart to give “line clear” but he refused to do so unless the platform was cleared for him, although, with the exception of the persons above mentioned and the station staff with a few passengers, there does not appear to have been anyone to clear off. The Myoke then telegraphed to Daikoo and Noyungla Bin (sic) saying that the Stationmaster was drunk and directing trains to proceed with caution.
Previous to the Myoke coming, Mr Wells had telegraphed to the traffic Inspector to say that “Stuart was drunk” and I have put the Asst. Stationmaster in charge, but this was not done as the Asst. Stationmaster was away down the line although expected by the train that was detained at Daikoo, a telegram was sent to correct the former one and orders received that Benjamin was to take charge and give “line clear,” as Benjamin was drunk, he also could not take charge and shortly after Crow, the Assistant Stationmaster arrived and “line clear” was sent to Nyoungla Bin and the train came in.
In the opinion of the Myoke and Mr Wells, the Stationmaster was drunk and in the opinion of Crow also, he was drunk, as regards other evidence as to the alleged drunkenness , of the 5th witness, Verrapen, a Signaller, says the Stationmaster was not intoxicated, but by his actions, one thought he might be drunk.
The Stationmaster seems to have written two telegrams; one “Station is placed in Military charge” which was taken back by him; and another “station drunk, how to act” substituted. 6th witness, another Signaller, says Mr Stuart was steady because he did not drink; his opinion apparently being that the Stationmaster was not drunk.
Witness no. 7, Berry, Guard of the ballast train, says he saw Stuart who came to him and said “See Berry what they have done to me, I have been mobbed.” Berry says he considers Stuart was sober as he was very much excited at the time.
The Railway Hospital Asst. examined Stuart at 3 p.m. and pronounced him sober and says he could not, in his opinion, have been drunk at 12 o’clock. I have given all this evidence most careful consideration and do not consider that Stationmaster Stuart was drunk at the time although his acts and manner would, until a regular investigation was held, lead people to suppose that he was. What especially struck me during the trial was his perfect recollection of every fact and his ability to explain every trifling circumstance. Had he been the worse for liquor he could not possibly have done this. He was in a most excited state having just had a struggle with Ticket Collector Thomas and Signaller Benjamin and having severely cut his hand and I do not think that wither Mr Wells or the Myoke were wrong in interfering and reporting him to Headquarters, as, in their opinion he was drunk.
Stuart’s explanation of his refusing to give “line clear” is that he deliberately made up his mind not to do so as he knew he was not drunk but also knew both Wells and the Myoke had pronounced him drunk and reported him as such and that [if] it was afterwards proved that he was drunk and had given “line clear” when in that condition he could have been prosecuted to a conviction under the latter part of Sec. 25 for doing an act that would be likely to endanger the safety of passengers.
I dare say the Stationmaster had a good deal of trouble that morning as pay seems to have been distributed the previous day and a good deal of drinking seems to have gone on amongst the subordinate staff. Most of the complication seems to have been the result of Mr Stuart’s acting in a most improper manner in taking the law in his own hands, first in assaulting Ticket Collector Thomas and then engaging in a struggle and fight with Signaller Benjamin who was drunk. He then seems to have been beside himself with rage and to have lost his head and afterwards to have refused to give “line clear” on the idea that, as he was considered drunk he would, if he did so, lay himself open to a conviction. Assistant Stationmaster Crow seems to have acted most improperly in entering the arrival of the ballast train as if he himself had received it. Whereas, at the time the train arrived, he was apparently miles away down the line; I have brought this to the notice of the Traffic Inspector who acted as prosecutor. I consider that Stationmaster Stuart performed his duty in a most improper manner in using personal violence towards both Thomas and Benjamin. It is one of the first duties of a Stationmaster to preserve order and had he acted as he should have done and placed the men under arrest and if necessary called in the assistance of the Police, he would both have quelled the disturbance and maintained his own dignity. Under Section 25 of the Railway Act., J.L.D. Stuart is fined Rs. 50 in default to suffer 7 days rigorous imprisonment. (Signed) George Alexander, District Magistrate. Shoaygheen, 8th Nov. 1888.
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Ganja
A native named Bhugwan Dass, residing near the Surate Bazar, was on Thursday evening charged before the Junior Asst. Magistrate by Mr Lewis, Excise Officer, with having in his possession forty tolahs of ganja which was found in his house and on his pleading guilty, stating that it was simple for his own consumption, he was fined Rs. 150 or in default to suffer fifteen days rigorous imprisonment. Fine not paid. |
8th Criminal Sessions - Queen Empress vs Abdool
The prisoner was charged with the theft of certain loongyees from the stall of a Chinaman ... the following jury was elected: F.C. Kennedy, Foreman, A. Lyons, E. Antram, F.C. Pereira and A. Oliver.... The man was caught with the loongyees in his possession a hundred yards away from the stall. The Judge having charged the jury, fully explained both law and evidence, the foreman returned a unanimous verdict of guilty. Three previous convictions having been admitted by the prisoner, the Judge said he was an incorrigible thief and as previous sentences of whipping and incarceration had had no effect on him he would now sentence him to ten years transportation in lieu of the same period of imprisonment. |
Queen Empress vs John W. Grange
The accused, a soldier, of the 2nd Cheshire Regiment, was placed in the dock charged with two murders, both the deceased being Lishaw women, one mother and the other daughter, named Saw Poo Ma and Law Lai May, said to have been committed about the middle of September last in Bernardmyo, in the Ruby Mines District. He pleaded not guilty to both and the following gentlemen were empannelled as Jury, Mr B. Samuel, Foreman, Messrs. J.K. Anderson, J.M. Dunbar, A.J. Wells and H.W. Jones.
The trial lasted all the 20th and finished late in the evening of the following day. The Judge taking fully two hours to deliver his charge to the Jury. His Honour went minutely into the whole law of the case, quoting largely from Taylor’s Medical Jurisprudence and fully explained to the jury the matter of insanity and its bearing n acts of homicide. They Jury after retiring for about forty minutes were not able to come to a unanimous verdict, but His Honour accepted that of the majority (four out of five) to the effect that the prisoner was guilty of wilful murder in both cases. In passing sentence, his Honour said “John William Grange the Jury by a majority of one, have found you guilty of the charges brought against you. It is now my painful duty to pass upon you the extreme penalty of the law. The sentence upon you is that you be hanged by the neck until you be dead.” This sentence will have to be confirmed by the high Court of Calcutta, to which, if you wish to appeal, you must do so within seven days. When the sentence was pronounced Grange fainted but was quickly revived and removed.
The accused, a soldier, of the 2nd Cheshire Regiment, was placed in the dock charged with two murders, both the deceased being Lishaw women, one mother and the other daughter, named Saw Poo Ma and Law Lai May, said to have been committed about the middle of September last in Bernardmyo, in the Ruby Mines District. He pleaded not guilty to both and the following gentlemen were empannelled as Jury, Mr B. Samuel, Foreman, Messrs. J.K. Anderson, J.M. Dunbar, A.J. Wells and H.W. Jones.
The trial lasted all the 20th and finished late in the evening of the following day. The Judge taking fully two hours to deliver his charge to the Jury. His Honour went minutely into the whole law of the case, quoting largely from Taylor’s Medical Jurisprudence and fully explained to the jury the matter of insanity and its bearing n acts of homicide. They Jury after retiring for about forty minutes were not able to come to a unanimous verdict, but His Honour accepted that of the majority (four out of five) to the effect that the prisoner was guilty of wilful murder in both cases. In passing sentence, his Honour said “John William Grange the Jury by a majority of one, have found you guilty of the charges brought against you. It is now my painful duty to pass upon you the extreme penalty of the law. The sentence upon you is that you be hanged by the neck until you be dead.” This sentence will have to be confirmed by the high Court of Calcutta, to which, if you wish to appeal, you must do so within seven days. When the sentence was pronounced Grange fainted but was quickly revived and removed.
Theft
Two Eurasians named Vincent and MacNamara were charged before the Asst. Magistrate with stealing a woollen cap and hat from the house of Mr Lawrie of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, living in Sandwith Road. The servant of Mr Lawrie stated that he saw MacNamara take the cap off the hat rack and run off with it. The rack was on the verandah and the accused had no business inside the compound at all. The hat he threw to his companion who was waiting outside. He made the prisoners sit down until his master came. The two prisoners said that they were petition writers and had mistaken the house for that of a Captain whose name they did not know, who had told them to come and see him and he would give them work. The first accused MacNamara, said that the servant had spite against him on account of a blow he (the accused) had given him in the bazaar. The Magistrate then asked them if they were not in the habit of going round the houses in Cantonments asking for addresses of persons and if they had not been in his own compound on this excuse, the prisoners admitted this and judgement was reserved
Two Eurasians named Vincent and MacNamara were charged before the Asst. Magistrate with stealing a woollen cap and hat from the house of Mr Lawrie of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, living in Sandwith Road. The servant of Mr Lawrie stated that he saw MacNamara take the cap off the hat rack and run off with it. The rack was on the verandah and the accused had no business inside the compound at all. The hat he threw to his companion who was waiting outside. He made the prisoners sit down until his master came. The two prisoners said that they were petition writers and had mistaken the house for that of a Captain whose name they did not know, who had told them to come and see him and he would give them work. The first accused MacNamara, said that the servant had spite against him on account of a blow he (the accused) had given him in the bazaar. The Magistrate then asked them if they were not in the habit of going round the houses in Cantonments asking for addresses of persons and if they had not been in his own compound on this excuse, the prisoners admitted this and judgement was reserved
In the Court of the Recorder - Estate of Capt. Beville
Mr Owen applied for Letters of Administration in the matter of the Estate of the late Capt. Beville, valued at Rs. 16,880.
Character Defamation
Mr Vertannes filed a pliant yesterday in the Recorder’s Court on behalf of Dr. Ross against Mr Pedley to recover the sum of Rupees 5,000 damages for defamation, owing to a letter published in our contemporary’s columns on the 9th Oct. last. A written statement was ordered to be filed and the case was put down for settlement of issues next week. We hear that Counsel for Dr. Ross are, Messrs. VanSomeren and Vertannes and that Dr. Pedley will be represented by Mr E.G. Man (shortly expected.)
Mr Owen applied for Letters of Administration in the matter of the Estate of the late Capt. Beville, valued at Rs. 16,880.
Character Defamation
Mr Vertannes filed a pliant yesterday in the Recorder’s Court on behalf of Dr. Ross against Mr Pedley to recover the sum of Rupees 5,000 damages for defamation, owing to a letter published in our contemporary’s columns on the 9th Oct. last. A written statement was ordered to be filed and the case was put down for settlement of issues next week. We hear that Counsel for Dr. Ross are, Messrs. VanSomeren and Vertannes and that Dr. Pedley will be represented by Mr E.G. Man (shortly expected.)
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Harassment
The following cases were on Wednesday heard before the Hony. Magistrates U Ohn Ghine and U. Kywe Oh and disposed of as follows: viz, Mee Aim and Mee Patsoo, two Burmese women residing in Poozoundoung, were charged by a woman named Catherine David, for entering her house and using insulting and abusive language towards her and also beating her on the face and body with slippers. From the evidence it appears that both the accused entered while she was at breakfast and caught hold of her by the hair, striking her at the same time with slippers on the face and body and using obscene language towards her. The charge being found proven the Magistrates sentenced the first accused to pay Rs. 30 and the second Rs. 20, with costs Rs. 20 to be paid to the complainant. Gunja A large seizure of Gunja was made on board the Scindia, the steamer which arrived with the mails from Madras, by Mr Reardon, Customs Preventive Officer. A Sepoy belonging to the 13th M.I. was found in possession of 300 tolas, which he had concealed in a gunny bag. Queen Empress vs Po Glum The accused, in this case, was a post office servant and he was charged with three offences, under section ... with having mutilated or broken open certain letters with intent to fraudulently appropriate their contents. He pleased “not guilty” to these charges when the following gentlemen wee empanelled as Jury: Mr Alex. D. Warren, Foreman, H. Halliday, T. Cowie, W.D. Stephen and Sheikh Abdoolla. ... Mr Grant, Bar-at-law appeared to defend the accused. ... On conclusion of the evident for the prosecution Mr Grant intimated he would not call any evidence. The Judge then summed up, and the Jury after a short deliberation, brought in a verdict of not guilty by a majority of four to five. The prisoner was accordingly discharged. |
Charged
P. D’Cunha, a clerk in the Executive Engineer’s Office, was charged before the Asst. Magistrate, under section ... with having executed a document without the same being duly stamped as required by law. The accused admitted the execution of the document (which was a promissory note for Rs. 100 to be repaid by monthly instalments) the note bore a one anna stamp instead of two annas. A penalty of Rs. 3-8 had already been levied and the accused was fined a further sum of Rs. 5. Queen Empress vs Nga Po Lu In this case the accused was charged with two offences – one of theft in a dwelling house and the other receiving stolen property. He pleaded not guilty and the following gentlemen were empanelled as jury:- R.Q. Bertram, Foreman R.A. Evers N. Burjorjee A. Barnes W. Providence ... The Jury, after a short retirement, brought in a verdict of not guilty and the accused was discharged. Assault Maungassat, a clerk in the office of the Adjutant of Military Police, applied for a summons against Mr Evershed for assault. The complainant said that some dispute had arisen on Friday night about his signing a chit instead of paying cash and that Mr Evershed had taken him by the collar and pushed him outside the door, giving him a blow on the ear, which had been cut by the diamond ring which the accused wore. The summons was granted. |
J. Short
Mr J. Short, Secretary to the Rangoon Municipality was charged in six separate cases under section 62 of the General Stamp Act, with having executed a document without having cancelled the Stamp affixed to it. The documents referred to were receipts granted by the Rangoon Municipality to Hajee Ramatoolla and Hajee Snerl? on account of scavenging taxes, collected from them for the second, third and fourth quarters of 1887, in respect of their two houses. Mr Eddis who appeared for the defence argued that Mr Short had only signed the document in guarantee of its authenticity that the document could not be said to have been executed, as the Stamp was not affixed to it the money had been actually paid, when it was a duty of the Thoogyee to cancel the stamp. Mr Vaillant contended that the document was executed as soon as Mr Short signed his name and that the stamp should then have been affixed and cancelled before the document left the office. The Asst. Magistrate said that Mr Short had undoubtedly committed a breach of the Stamp Act but that as he had done so in his capacity as Secretary of the Municipality there could have been no intentional fraud for his own advantage, he therefore considered a nominal fine in each case would be sufficient. Judgement would be delivered on Monday.
Mr J. Short, Secretary to the Rangoon Municipality was charged in six separate cases under section 62 of the General Stamp Act, with having executed a document without having cancelled the Stamp affixed to it. The documents referred to were receipts granted by the Rangoon Municipality to Hajee Ramatoolla and Hajee Snerl? on account of scavenging taxes, collected from them for the second, third and fourth quarters of 1887, in respect of their two houses. Mr Eddis who appeared for the defence argued that Mr Short had only signed the document in guarantee of its authenticity that the document could not be said to have been executed, as the Stamp was not affixed to it the money had been actually paid, when it was a duty of the Thoogyee to cancel the stamp. Mr Vaillant contended that the document was executed as soon as Mr Short signed his name and that the stamp should then have been affixed and cancelled before the document left the office. The Asst. Magistrate said that Mr Short had undoubtedly committed a breach of the Stamp Act but that as he had done so in his capacity as Secretary of the Municipality there could have been no intentional fraud for his own advantage, he therefore considered a nominal fine in each case would be sufficient. Judgement would be delivered on Monday.
Queen Empress vs Jaganardum
This is the case in which the Post Office peon going in charge of the postal van, was seen to open a cover and appropriate the contents on the Strand Road. ... The prisoner pleaded not guilty and the following gentlemen were empannelled as Jury: S. Hall, Foreman, T.G. Maidment, S. Porter, F. Stock and E. Batjer. The evidence went to show that one of the witnesses, a Mr Doyle, Cashier of Messrs. Hegt & Co, whose office is on the Strand, was standing at the window of his office on day in question, the 26th Oct., at about quarter after 1 p.m., when he saw the postal van pass going west, and observed the accused take a letter from his pocket, tear the cover which was thrown away and then after looking at the pamphlet which was in the cover, put it into his pocket. This seemed so strange that he sent his office durwan to bring him the thrown away cover, and writing to the Editor, Rangoon Times, about the matter he forwarded the picked up portion of the cover. The Editor then addressed the Deputy Postmaster General on the subject. This led the house of the accused being searched by the police and the pamphlet being found amongst others. ... The Judge sentenced the prisoner to three years’ rigorous imprisonment ...
This is the case in which the Post Office peon going in charge of the postal van, was seen to open a cover and appropriate the contents on the Strand Road. ... The prisoner pleaded not guilty and the following gentlemen were empannelled as Jury: S. Hall, Foreman, T.G. Maidment, S. Porter, F. Stock and E. Batjer. The evidence went to show that one of the witnesses, a Mr Doyle, Cashier of Messrs. Hegt & Co, whose office is on the Strand, was standing at the window of his office on day in question, the 26th Oct., at about quarter after 1 p.m., when he saw the postal van pass going west, and observed the accused take a letter from his pocket, tear the cover which was thrown away and then after looking at the pamphlet which was in the cover, put it into his pocket. This seemed so strange that he sent his office durwan to bring him the thrown away cover, and writing to the Editor, Rangoon Times, about the matter he forwarded the picked up portion of the cover. The Editor then addressed the Deputy Postmaster General on the subject. This led the house of the accused being searched by the police and the pamphlet being found amongst others. ... The Judge sentenced the prisoner to three years’ rigorous imprisonment ...
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Mr Cumming
Mamoojeee Musajee and Ahmed Ebrahim Akoojee of Edwards Street, applied for a summons before the Asst. Magistrate against Mr Cumming, an Assistant in the Municipal Office, for insult. Petitioners said that on Sunday morning Mr Cumming came and ordered some workmen to break down a wall belonging to them and that on their remonstrating he had used abusive language and swore at them. The said wall was being erected by them in Block C., III and is claimed by the Municipality as a part of Mogul Street. Henry Mollar Mr Henry Mollar, of the Office of the Examiner of Accounts, charged the driver of gharry no. 53 with refusing to ply. The gharry wallah said that his pony was tired. He brought no witnesses to prove his statement and was fined Rs. 5. |
Queen Empress vs
1. Yankaya, 2. Swamy, 3. Guagiah and 4. Sabyah The three first accused were charged with the theft of certain articles of clothing belonging to certain Chinamen and others and accumulating them in the place where the 4th accused lived. ... The others pleaded not guilty, the following gentlemen were selected as Jury to try them. F.C. Kennedy, Foreman, A. Lyons H.A. Jones H. Smith M. Quinlivan ... The Jury, after retiring shortly, brought in a verdict of guilty against all four and they were sentenced, the last man to one year and the others to three years’ rigorous imprisonment. |
Assault
With reference to a case which came up before the Asst. Magistrate on Wednesday in which a Mr G.D. Boyd, a travelling ticket examiner of the Burma State Railway, sued Mr White of Messrs. Rowe & Co. for assault and slander. An Advocate of either the second or third grade, who was for the complainant, seems to have adopted rather a clever method of obtaining his fee, or at least a part of it for his professional services.
When the Magistrate was calling over the various petitioners presented to him, the Advocate in question appeared and after a few minutes’ consultation with his client, went away promising to return in time enough to watch the case on his behalf. On the petitions being disposed of, the first case on the roll was that of Boyd vs White which was called, when both gentlemen answered to their names, but strange to say, the Advocate was non est. After the case was heard for the prosecution and defence the Magistrate dismissed it, there being apparently no case against Mr White at all.
The clever limb of the law was interviewed later on and on the subject of his being absent when his clients case was called on being broached to him, he calmly, in his highly and accustomed grammatical style of English, replied “well Sir, what case Sir, there was no case at all; the gentleman call him a black beast and is he not black; gentleman tell no lie, what could I do” Ah that is all very well, but what about the fee you received for conducting your client’s case, asked our correspondent, “What fee Sir” exclaimed the seemingly injured pleader “I only took half fee and he “promise me other half when the case would be called, but what use me going, no good case and the Magistrate if he want me should call me.”
With reference to a case which came up before the Asst. Magistrate on Wednesday in which a Mr G.D. Boyd, a travelling ticket examiner of the Burma State Railway, sued Mr White of Messrs. Rowe & Co. for assault and slander. An Advocate of either the second or third grade, who was for the complainant, seems to have adopted rather a clever method of obtaining his fee, or at least a part of it for his professional services.
When the Magistrate was calling over the various petitioners presented to him, the Advocate in question appeared and after a few minutes’ consultation with his client, went away promising to return in time enough to watch the case on his behalf. On the petitions being disposed of, the first case on the roll was that of Boyd vs White which was called, when both gentlemen answered to their names, but strange to say, the Advocate was non est. After the case was heard for the prosecution and defence the Magistrate dismissed it, there being apparently no case against Mr White at all.
The clever limb of the law was interviewed later on and on the subject of his being absent when his clients case was called on being broached to him, he calmly, in his highly and accustomed grammatical style of English, replied “well Sir, what case Sir, there was no case at all; the gentleman call him a black beast and is he not black; gentleman tell no lie, what could I do” Ah that is all very well, but what about the fee you received for conducting your client’s case, asked our correspondent, “What fee Sir” exclaimed the seemingly injured pleader “I only took half fee and he “promise me other half when the case would be called, but what use me going, no good case and the Magistrate if he want me should call me.”
Articles
State-Aided Immigration
We have before us the official account of the three attempts of the Government of India to foster the emigration of the surplus labour of India to this country; and we accept the official statements of the results without suggesting for a moment that the authorities, in their own defence, or in forcing upon the public the fresh plan that we have lately discussed in these columns, have made any unfair use of the materials at their disposal. Taken in the official and authorised version, the most scathing condemnation of the proposals of the Indian to the Local Government is recorded in the supplement to the Gazette of India of October 20th 1888. We have before us also a large number of other printed criticisms and proposals with reference to this much disputed question; and, after a deliberate and conscientious examination of the available data, have no hesitation in again expressing our deliberate opinion that thee various schemes of the Indian Government for the settlement of Burma are founded in error and formulated in utter ignorance of both local requirements and conditions.
In 1874 Bengalis were introduced under a three years’ agreement. Of 7,000 persons imported at Government expense “800 absconded and returned to India; some found employment on the railways and canals; some few enlisted in the police; others took to domestic service; and a very small number” – very small; smaller even than the wet-nurse’s baby of fiction – “settled down to cultivation in the Moulmain district.” Total loss to the State Rs. 1,25,000; and the only wonder is it was not larger.
But the Government was not easily discouraged; and in those days India had neither a rupee at one and four pence, not a tax payer whose critical faculties had been whetted by an Income-tax. Two years after the Government was at it again. “In 1876 a scheme” – it was a scheme, not to say a chimerea – “was started to introduce labour from Madras. The immigrants bound themselves under contract to work at a certain rate of wages – “ Just fancy the Sirkar rushing round with an eight anna stamped paper, and getting collies to sign up any such imbecile contract. Any P.W.D. maistry or a contractor who had ever tried to supply any form of labour could have foretold the advisers of the Government the inevitable results of such monumental folly. The government is nothing if not amateurish; but one would hardly deem it so ignorant as not to have heard of the ateliers nationaux. The man who will sound the occasionally abysmal ignorance of even that quintessence of sublimated encyclopedism, the B.C.S., has to furnish himself with a very long lead line; as will eb immediately apparent; - “and the Government undertook to pay them” – the coolies as foresaid - “ the specified wages, if no other employment were found for them.” Our readers can picture the eagerness with which coolies, already handsomely endowed by a grandmotherly Government, would have grappled zealously and gratefully with any other work that offered; the Sirkar evidently possessed then, if it does not now, not only an imagination but one of phenomenal fertility. “The scheme proceeded on the erroneous” – this last is a distinctly good word, if a trifle mild and neutral tinted – “assumption that there were large employers of labour in Burma, who would gladly avail themselves of the labour of the coolies and who might induce the immigrant families to settle down on farms in the country.” And it is to trade in “pups” like this that the Government has established Intelligence and Agricultural Departments! “about 758 persons were imported and the scheme was abandoned at a loss to Government...” Well, we have heard private individuals in trade making peculiar shipments when misled by their correspondents; but a question not unnaturally arises as to the average sanity of the then Local Government that permitted its progenitor of India to make so melancholy an exhibition of itself.
We next come to the great Behar fiasco of 1882; and our readers will notice that the great Milne scheme, already discussed in our columns and the greater Nolan idea about the impoverished ryot of the Berars, is about as clearly parallel a case as could be produced. “Again most favourable terms were offered” – to whom and in what manner? – “by Government.” We hope, having genuine friends among officials in this country, that this abstraction refers to the Indian and not to the Local Administration. “The passage of each family was paid to Rangoon and their conveyance to the village in which they were to live was defrayed by Government. Houses were supplied and food given free of cost until wages could be earned; and work was assured to able-bodied labourers for one year. After completion of one year’s work, holdings of cultivated land in proprietary right of an area varying from 10 to 20 acres were to be allotted to each family. Thee holdings were to be exempt from land revenue for five years. Finally, “a special officer” – please take care of Dowb- “ was to be deputed to take charge of the colonists and to guard their interests.” Government wet and dry nursing complete; “active and intelligent officer” living on T.A., and banking his pay; Government of India, with golden harps and smiles representing philanthropic rapture, arranged like a garland of amorets round one of Titian’s Madonnas. Mons parturiens, nasciturque ridiculissimus mus – “about 70 men and 4 women” – memories of Falstaff’s tavern bill in Chepe rise before us and we murmur with the Prince – “were sent to the Pyuntaza plain. They remained for a few weeks on the sites selected for them, receiving Government rains and doing but little work.” This might surprise a Government Official; but anyone else being surprised thereat and wishing to keep up a reputation for sanity – apparently unnecessary in SImla – had better artfully conceal his astonishment for obvious reasons. “At the end of that time” – mirabile dictu – “they abandoned their homes and took employment as coolies on the railway line or returned to Rangoon.” The report naively concludes by sating: “The scheme failed ...” The Secretariat is not much addicted to Church going; but there is a chorus to all Psalms and most of the Canticles that can be appropriately quoted here, albeit with all due reverence – “As it was in the beginning etc.”
These are facts drawn from official sources; the narrator appends to them a species of Apologia pro vita sua; this we reserve for future examination.
We have before us the official account of the three attempts of the Government of India to foster the emigration of the surplus labour of India to this country; and we accept the official statements of the results without suggesting for a moment that the authorities, in their own defence, or in forcing upon the public the fresh plan that we have lately discussed in these columns, have made any unfair use of the materials at their disposal. Taken in the official and authorised version, the most scathing condemnation of the proposals of the Indian to the Local Government is recorded in the supplement to the Gazette of India of October 20th 1888. We have before us also a large number of other printed criticisms and proposals with reference to this much disputed question; and, after a deliberate and conscientious examination of the available data, have no hesitation in again expressing our deliberate opinion that thee various schemes of the Indian Government for the settlement of Burma are founded in error and formulated in utter ignorance of both local requirements and conditions.
In 1874 Bengalis were introduced under a three years’ agreement. Of 7,000 persons imported at Government expense “800 absconded and returned to India; some found employment on the railways and canals; some few enlisted in the police; others took to domestic service; and a very small number” – very small; smaller even than the wet-nurse’s baby of fiction – “settled down to cultivation in the Moulmain district.” Total loss to the State Rs. 1,25,000; and the only wonder is it was not larger.
But the Government was not easily discouraged; and in those days India had neither a rupee at one and four pence, not a tax payer whose critical faculties had been whetted by an Income-tax. Two years after the Government was at it again. “In 1876 a scheme” – it was a scheme, not to say a chimerea – “was started to introduce labour from Madras. The immigrants bound themselves under contract to work at a certain rate of wages – “ Just fancy the Sirkar rushing round with an eight anna stamped paper, and getting collies to sign up any such imbecile contract. Any P.W.D. maistry or a contractor who had ever tried to supply any form of labour could have foretold the advisers of the Government the inevitable results of such monumental folly. The government is nothing if not amateurish; but one would hardly deem it so ignorant as not to have heard of the ateliers nationaux. The man who will sound the occasionally abysmal ignorance of even that quintessence of sublimated encyclopedism, the B.C.S., has to furnish himself with a very long lead line; as will eb immediately apparent; - “and the Government undertook to pay them” – the coolies as foresaid - “ the specified wages, if no other employment were found for them.” Our readers can picture the eagerness with which coolies, already handsomely endowed by a grandmotherly Government, would have grappled zealously and gratefully with any other work that offered; the Sirkar evidently possessed then, if it does not now, not only an imagination but one of phenomenal fertility. “The scheme proceeded on the erroneous” – this last is a distinctly good word, if a trifle mild and neutral tinted – “assumption that there were large employers of labour in Burma, who would gladly avail themselves of the labour of the coolies and who might induce the immigrant families to settle down on farms in the country.” And it is to trade in “pups” like this that the Government has established Intelligence and Agricultural Departments! “about 758 persons were imported and the scheme was abandoned at a loss to Government...” Well, we have heard private individuals in trade making peculiar shipments when misled by their correspondents; but a question not unnaturally arises as to the average sanity of the then Local Government that permitted its progenitor of India to make so melancholy an exhibition of itself.
We next come to the great Behar fiasco of 1882; and our readers will notice that the great Milne scheme, already discussed in our columns and the greater Nolan idea about the impoverished ryot of the Berars, is about as clearly parallel a case as could be produced. “Again most favourable terms were offered” – to whom and in what manner? – “by Government.” We hope, having genuine friends among officials in this country, that this abstraction refers to the Indian and not to the Local Administration. “The passage of each family was paid to Rangoon and their conveyance to the village in which they were to live was defrayed by Government. Houses were supplied and food given free of cost until wages could be earned; and work was assured to able-bodied labourers for one year. After completion of one year’s work, holdings of cultivated land in proprietary right of an area varying from 10 to 20 acres were to be allotted to each family. Thee holdings were to be exempt from land revenue for five years. Finally, “a special officer” – please take care of Dowb- “ was to be deputed to take charge of the colonists and to guard their interests.” Government wet and dry nursing complete; “active and intelligent officer” living on T.A., and banking his pay; Government of India, with golden harps and smiles representing philanthropic rapture, arranged like a garland of amorets round one of Titian’s Madonnas. Mons parturiens, nasciturque ridiculissimus mus – “about 70 men and 4 women” – memories of Falstaff’s tavern bill in Chepe rise before us and we murmur with the Prince – “were sent to the Pyuntaza plain. They remained for a few weeks on the sites selected for them, receiving Government rains and doing but little work.” This might surprise a Government Official; but anyone else being surprised thereat and wishing to keep up a reputation for sanity – apparently unnecessary in SImla – had better artfully conceal his astonishment for obvious reasons. “At the end of that time” – mirabile dictu – “they abandoned their homes and took employment as coolies on the railway line or returned to Rangoon.” The report naively concludes by sating: “The scheme failed ...” The Secretariat is not much addicted to Church going; but there is a chorus to all Psalms and most of the Canticles that can be appropriately quoted here, albeit with all due reverence – “As it was in the beginning etc.”
These are facts drawn from official sources; the narrator appends to them a species of Apologia pro vita sua; this we reserve for future examination.
Dissolution of Contract Between Government and The Irrawaddy Flotilla
Government have at length awakened from the deep sleep in which, apparently, they seem to have been enshrouded since the annexation of the province of Upper Burma. Our readers will recollect that, during the last Burmese war, when military operations were taking place for the capture of Mandalay and with it, the present Ex. King Theebaw, who is now at Rutnagherri paying the penalty of his regal sins, then was the auspicious time for the flotilla Company; silver fell into its hands by a contract, which to all intents and purposes, when now viewed with official spectacles appears, as we have so long been trying to show, at once misleading and at the same time too favourable to the Company in whose behalf it was drawn.
We are not concerned with who had to do with the drawing up of the agreement, but we think that if only things were looked into, as they should have been by the Executive or Controlling powers that be, without placing implicit reliance upon any officials who hold high positions in he State, the Government would have ere this been called upon to give an account of the reasons for entering into this curious and one-sided contract. In this instance, the Local Government appears to have been so far hood-winked as to have been played upon and to have allowed itself to be made a tool, as it were, in the hands of the Flotilla Company. It would be hardly worthwhile now to go into the contract or agreement in detail. So far back as December 1885, our readers may recollect, was the busy and anxious time concerning Upper Burma and Government had no other alternative but to fall upon the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company for the conveyance of troops, military baggage, stores, ammunition and other supplies and munitions of war. We place the best construction of the action of those upon whom the drawing up of this monstrous agreement appears to rest. Probably, it was thought that as Government wanted Flotilla assistance, it must get it at any cost, however large the amount may seem. But an important rule in the Civil Account Code, and in other Civil Regulations of Government to the effect that every officer must in the smallest expenditure have Government interests at heart and act with Government money as if it were his own, seems to have been forgotten. The contract stipulates that the sum of Rs. 5,000 per month was to be paid for the charter of each flat from the Company, this does not show that the economy of Government money was studied. And further, a tame submission has been acquiesced in to the effect that Government launches should not be used or tow or tug any of their chartered flats, but that the Flotilla’s own launches or steamers should be hired for the purpose of towage on the payment of a separate hire of something like Rs. 15,000. The reason alleged by the Company for not allowing Government to use its own launches was, we are told, that they did not wish their vessels to be manned by Government Officers The spirit of independence and domineering appears to have been the characteristic feature of the Company, right through from the beginning.
It has now been decided to avoid the heavy and, in some cases, unnecessary expenditure, which Government has to meet, in depending solely upon the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company for the conveyance of troops, military baggage etc. by ordering its own flats, which are now being constructed in the Kidderpur Docks at Calcutta and which should have been commenced three years ago, immediately annexation was decided on, when a considerable saving would have resulted to Government, which has got its own steam launches. These, hitherto, it could not utilise according to eh queer terms of the contract entered into with the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company. The steamers are therefore at present employed only in conveying stores up the Chindwin river between Ahlone and Kindat.
The saving on each flat will, therefore not only be the charter of the flat which is Rs. 5,000, but the cost of steam towage, which means Rs. 15,000 per month. There are other companies which have done service for Government in Burma, such as the Salween Steam Navigation Company, the Steam Tug Company and the Bombay Burma Trading corporation; but the charges of these are as nothing when compared with the Irrawaddy Flotilla. It is also noted that this Company charges an extra fare for Government servants, who travel with Passage Warrants and the reason alleged for this is that they must, according to the terms of a contact, find room for Government servants, while they are at liberty to refuse others. This argument is not at all convincing. It is not generally thought good policy to kill the goose for the sake of the eggs. However, it is some consolation to be informed that the flats will be soon ready and as specified in the contract with the Flotilla Company the agreement becomes null and void as soon as Government supplies itself with its own flats, steamers etc. T
The agreement was entered into in 1885 and it terminates in 1890. For three years at least, Government has occupied a very unenviable position in regard to the Flotilla Company, and certainly when annexation was decided on, its policy with regard to the conveyance of troops and stores has been characterised by extravagance and waste of public money. Through the representation of the Rangoon Times and the exertions of Mr C. Bradlaugh, M.P., a wiser policy is to prevail in future and public expenditure on the Irrawaddy is to be more carefully controlled. It is certainly in the public interest that it should be so and the necessity for the public having more control over the funds it supplies, is shown by the fact that the scandal of which we have been complaining has ben going on for over two years, unnecessarily, and at an annual cost of lakhs of rupees to the Indian taxpayers.
Government have at length awakened from the deep sleep in which, apparently, they seem to have been enshrouded since the annexation of the province of Upper Burma. Our readers will recollect that, during the last Burmese war, when military operations were taking place for the capture of Mandalay and with it, the present Ex. King Theebaw, who is now at Rutnagherri paying the penalty of his regal sins, then was the auspicious time for the flotilla Company; silver fell into its hands by a contract, which to all intents and purposes, when now viewed with official spectacles appears, as we have so long been trying to show, at once misleading and at the same time too favourable to the Company in whose behalf it was drawn.
We are not concerned with who had to do with the drawing up of the agreement, but we think that if only things were looked into, as they should have been by the Executive or Controlling powers that be, without placing implicit reliance upon any officials who hold high positions in he State, the Government would have ere this been called upon to give an account of the reasons for entering into this curious and one-sided contract. In this instance, the Local Government appears to have been so far hood-winked as to have been played upon and to have allowed itself to be made a tool, as it were, in the hands of the Flotilla Company. It would be hardly worthwhile now to go into the contract or agreement in detail. So far back as December 1885, our readers may recollect, was the busy and anxious time concerning Upper Burma and Government had no other alternative but to fall upon the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company for the conveyance of troops, military baggage, stores, ammunition and other supplies and munitions of war. We place the best construction of the action of those upon whom the drawing up of this monstrous agreement appears to rest. Probably, it was thought that as Government wanted Flotilla assistance, it must get it at any cost, however large the amount may seem. But an important rule in the Civil Account Code, and in other Civil Regulations of Government to the effect that every officer must in the smallest expenditure have Government interests at heart and act with Government money as if it were his own, seems to have been forgotten. The contract stipulates that the sum of Rs. 5,000 per month was to be paid for the charter of each flat from the Company, this does not show that the economy of Government money was studied. And further, a tame submission has been acquiesced in to the effect that Government launches should not be used or tow or tug any of their chartered flats, but that the Flotilla’s own launches or steamers should be hired for the purpose of towage on the payment of a separate hire of something like Rs. 15,000. The reason alleged by the Company for not allowing Government to use its own launches was, we are told, that they did not wish their vessels to be manned by Government Officers The spirit of independence and domineering appears to have been the characteristic feature of the Company, right through from the beginning.
It has now been decided to avoid the heavy and, in some cases, unnecessary expenditure, which Government has to meet, in depending solely upon the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company for the conveyance of troops, military baggage etc. by ordering its own flats, which are now being constructed in the Kidderpur Docks at Calcutta and which should have been commenced three years ago, immediately annexation was decided on, when a considerable saving would have resulted to Government, which has got its own steam launches. These, hitherto, it could not utilise according to eh queer terms of the contract entered into with the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company. The steamers are therefore at present employed only in conveying stores up the Chindwin river between Ahlone and Kindat.
The saving on each flat will, therefore not only be the charter of the flat which is Rs. 5,000, but the cost of steam towage, which means Rs. 15,000 per month. There are other companies which have done service for Government in Burma, such as the Salween Steam Navigation Company, the Steam Tug Company and the Bombay Burma Trading corporation; but the charges of these are as nothing when compared with the Irrawaddy Flotilla. It is also noted that this Company charges an extra fare for Government servants, who travel with Passage Warrants and the reason alleged for this is that they must, according to the terms of a contact, find room for Government servants, while they are at liberty to refuse others. This argument is not at all convincing. It is not generally thought good policy to kill the goose for the sake of the eggs. However, it is some consolation to be informed that the flats will be soon ready and as specified in the contract with the Flotilla Company the agreement becomes null and void as soon as Government supplies itself with its own flats, steamers etc. T
The agreement was entered into in 1885 and it terminates in 1890. For three years at least, Government has occupied a very unenviable position in regard to the Flotilla Company, and certainly when annexation was decided on, its policy with regard to the conveyance of troops and stores has been characterised by extravagance and waste of public money. Through the representation of the Rangoon Times and the exertions of Mr C. Bradlaugh, M.P., a wiser policy is to prevail in future and public expenditure on the Irrawaddy is to be more carefully controlled. It is certainly in the public interest that it should be so and the necessity for the public having more control over the funds it supplies, is shown by the fact that the scandal of which we have been complaining has ben going on for over two years, unnecessarily, and at an annual cost of lakhs of rupees to the Indian taxpayers.
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Tramway
We hear that the Local Municipality have granted Mr George Dawson the concession he applied for a short while ago in connection with starting a tramway in Mandalay, of which we then gave some particulars. But the grant has been given tacked on to conditions that probably will deal a death blow to our hopes of having the great public convenience of a tramway. The conditions are we believe that Mr Dawson is to keep the roads, through which his tramway runs, in repair and pay a royalty besides. These conditions are very likely to snuff out the enterprise, as the costs in getting up materials to Mandalay etc., will, at the start, be exceptionally high. We cannot blame the Municipality for making or trying to make as advantageous a contract as it possibly can; nor can we on the other hand, expect Mr Dawson to agree to terms more favourable to the Municipality than to himself. But for all this, the abandonment or collapse of public tramway enterprise in Mandalay is to be much regretted. The conditions imposed on Mr Dawson are, we hear, very similar, if not exactly alike, to those Mr J.W. Darwood accepted in Rangoon. But such conditions have been well-known to be anything but advantageous to Mr Darwood and his position under his conditions is not likely to seduce anyone so keenly alive to business as Mr Dawson is into a similar position. Besides, keeping roads in repair in Mandalay means something more than it does in Rangoon, where the roads were well and solidly made before they were handed over to the Tramway. If the Municipality could see its way to forget a little more of its financial necessities in favour of granting the public an undeniably great public convenience, it would confer much good on its suffrages. Mandalay Herald. |
Burma Past and Present
If we remember right, this was the title of General Albert Fytche’s book on this province, published shortly after he retired from the province and now nearly forgotten, owing, perhaps to the number of more interesting, instructive and amusing works on the same subject, which have since appeared. The veteran educationalist Dr. Marks, is to give a lecture this evening on “Burma Past and Present” at St. John’s Re-union Club House in Canal St. We think he will be certain of having a large and appreciative audience, for his is a name which conjures up the youth of all nationalities, not only in Rangoon but all over the province and not the youth only, for as years roll on, Dr. Marks’ former scholars have also advanced with the times and there will possibly be among his audience tonight some of his firmer Moulmain Scholars who are now grandfathers in their own right and many whose children are pupils at St. John’s College under the same kindly teacher and friend, who imparted to their fathers all that they know of English education and civilisation. So that Dr. Marks is very certain to have a large and appreciative audience and to those who have not heard the Reverend Doctor lecture, we can assure them if they pay a visit to the St. John’s Re-union Club House this evening, they will receive a most hearty welcome and return thoroughly satisfied with what they have heard and not only amused but instructed on a subject which perhaps no European in Burma knows more of and which certainly no one is better able to impart his knowledge of to others in the form of a lecture, than the well known Dr. Marks. Since writing the foregoing we hear the lecture is postponed for a few days owing to the learned Doctor’s indisposition, which, we sincerely trust, is only of a temporary nature and probably is brought about by the great heat we have been experiencing in the last few days. |
Revenue Collections, Upper Burma
We believe the intention of the British Government in adopting its present mode of collecting revenue in Upper Burma was to change, as little as possible, the Burman mode of assessment and to make payments as little burdensome to the people as possible. But the results in some instances, we are informed, has been unfortunate, inasmuch as the collection of the Government one-fourth of the produce in money has been oppressive to the people, as the market value of the produce has been greatly over-valued. We believe the people would have been much better satisfied had the land been assessed so much per acre as in Lower Burma, instead of on the Upper Burma system of one-fourth the produce. In adopting the latter method as the British Government only takes revenue in money, we necessarily omitted the wholesome provision obtaining under Burmese rule, by which difference of valuation of crop was avoided, viz – the levying of one-fourth the actual number of baskets of the crop.
There was no way for our officials to levy so many baskets of paddy or pulse, or sesamum (sic) seed and to get in as much revenue as possible, in too many instances, we fear, the crop has been very much over valued to the detriment of hard-working agriculturalists. Some of these latter, we hear, have actually deserted their lands, finding that after paying the revenue demand and the necessary expenses of cultivation, there was so little left for their own use as to give no incentive to industry. We think the Local Government should take early steps to prevent future discontent arising from such a circumstance as this, and the only way, as far as we can see, is to introduce some similar provision for taxing cultivated lands in Upper Burma to that obtaining to the Lower Province. When we annexed Pegu, we had in many instances to be content with very rough surveys of allotments, found in after years to grossly under estimate the amount of land really cultivated. This can hardly be prevented, but it is better than the Government should incur such loss, rather than that any general feeling of discontent should arise amongst cultivators that they have been “done” by our Revenue Officers and, we fear, this feeling is prevalent in many parts of Upper Burma, and only a system of taxing at so much per acre will remove it. As regards measurements of fields, there should be very much less difficulty in surveying now than was experienced when we first annexed Pegu. There are hundreds of surveyors now, for everyone who existed then and there should be no insuperable difficulty before the next rains to our obtaining fairly accurate accounts of the cultivated portions of Upper Burma which could be verified from time to time as more scientific surveys are made, than Burmese are yet competent to make. Every precaution should be taken to encourage the agricultural class who, in Upper Burma, as in most other countries, are the back bone of the prosperity of the State and, we fear, in the anxiety to show a good and early revenue collection, our officers in Upper Burma may have forgotten this important fact and have often disgusted cultivators with demands which, if thoroughly looked into, could not be justified under either Burmese or English modes of assessment.
We believe the intention of the British Government in adopting its present mode of collecting revenue in Upper Burma was to change, as little as possible, the Burman mode of assessment and to make payments as little burdensome to the people as possible. But the results in some instances, we are informed, has been unfortunate, inasmuch as the collection of the Government one-fourth of the produce in money has been oppressive to the people, as the market value of the produce has been greatly over-valued. We believe the people would have been much better satisfied had the land been assessed so much per acre as in Lower Burma, instead of on the Upper Burma system of one-fourth the produce. In adopting the latter method as the British Government only takes revenue in money, we necessarily omitted the wholesome provision obtaining under Burmese rule, by which difference of valuation of crop was avoided, viz – the levying of one-fourth the actual number of baskets of the crop.
There was no way for our officials to levy so many baskets of paddy or pulse, or sesamum (sic) seed and to get in as much revenue as possible, in too many instances, we fear, the crop has been very much over valued to the detriment of hard-working agriculturalists. Some of these latter, we hear, have actually deserted their lands, finding that after paying the revenue demand and the necessary expenses of cultivation, there was so little left for their own use as to give no incentive to industry. We think the Local Government should take early steps to prevent future discontent arising from such a circumstance as this, and the only way, as far as we can see, is to introduce some similar provision for taxing cultivated lands in Upper Burma to that obtaining to the Lower Province. When we annexed Pegu, we had in many instances to be content with very rough surveys of allotments, found in after years to grossly under estimate the amount of land really cultivated. This can hardly be prevented, but it is better than the Government should incur such loss, rather than that any general feeling of discontent should arise amongst cultivators that they have been “done” by our Revenue Officers and, we fear, this feeling is prevalent in many parts of Upper Burma, and only a system of taxing at so much per acre will remove it. As regards measurements of fields, there should be very much less difficulty in surveying now than was experienced when we first annexed Pegu. There are hundreds of surveyors now, for everyone who existed then and there should be no insuperable difficulty before the next rains to our obtaining fairly accurate accounts of the cultivated portions of Upper Burma which could be verified from time to time as more scientific surveys are made, than Burmese are yet competent to make. Every precaution should be taken to encourage the agricultural class who, in Upper Burma, as in most other countries, are the back bone of the prosperity of the State and, we fear, in the anxiety to show a good and early revenue collection, our officers in Upper Burma may have forgotten this important fact and have often disgusted cultivators with demands which, if thoroughly looked into, could not be justified under either Burmese or English modes of assessment.
The Chin Operations
The following are the arrangements for the occupation of the Chin Frontier and of which we gave an outline in one of our recent issues. The force detailed for the frontier column from Pokoko will be designated the “Pouk Column” and will consist of the following troops: 1st Madras Lancers, 50 lances under Capt. Lawford ... 10th Madras Infantry, 350 rifles, Col. Leggett commanding ... 10th M.I. Mounted Infantry, 26 Rifles with a British officer. 10th M.I. Mounted Infantry, 50 rank and file under Lt. Wright. The second column from Mandalay will be called the “Kalewa Column” and will be composed of 4 companies, 42nd Gurka Light Infantry, with two British officers. No. 1 Bengal Mounted Battery, 2 guns under a British Officer. One company of Madras Sapper and Miners with a British Officer. Surgeons Doyle and Robertson, with a suitable supply of medical subordinates and field panniers and dhoolies will accompany the Pouk Column while Surgeon Rogers will be in medical charge of the Kalewa Column.
British Officers will be restricted to lbs. 160 of baggage. Native Officers and medical subordinates to 40 lbs., Sepoys to 20 lbs. and followers to 15 lbs. Each man is to carry in his pouch 40 rounds of ammunition, all extra ammunition will be taken on by the Transport Department. Followers, public and private are to be limited to the lowest possible number.
The Transport Officer of the columns is Lt. Campbell, who will also have charge of the Field Treasury Chest. Brigadier General Faunce will, as already stated, have command of the whole operations. He will be accompanied by Capt. Turnan D.A.A.G. and will be joined later on by Major Raikes, C.I.E., who will be his sole adviser on all political frontier matters. Capt. Eyre will also accompany the General to the Frontiers of the Pokoko district, to facilitate the advance of the column through the district.
According to present arrangements only three posts on the Yaw border will be occupied; these being Thellin, Gungah and Kan. Sehoung and Kambala, on the Kalewa border, will be held in the north. The Kalewa Column will be distributed among the latter places, while the Pouk Column will hold the Yaw posts as follows: Thellin – 70 rifles, 10th M.I. under Capt. Mason. Gungah – 150 Rifles, 10th M.I., 25 Mounted Infantry, 10 M.I. under 1 British Officer. Colonel Leggett commands the post. Surgeon Robertson in Medical charge. Kan – Major Leader commands, 130 Rifles, 10 M.I., 50 Mounted Infantry, 10th B.I., Surgeon Doyle in Medial charge.
Each post will be supplied with an interpreter. The troops will observe a strictly defensive attitude. Should the Chins however, become troublesome, they will be followed into their mountains by flying columns from the nearest post and be severely chastised. The Pouk column is now concentrating at Pokoko. The General and staff with a detachment, 10th M.I., under Colonel Leggett arrived from Myngyan on the 9th instant and the detachment, 10th M.I, from Pagan under Major Leader arrived on the 10th instant. Lt. Harvey has come across from Myngyan to arrange for the commissariat supplies of the force. All arrangements will be completed in a few days and the columns will thereafter march to their destinations.
The following are the arrangements for the occupation of the Chin Frontier and of which we gave an outline in one of our recent issues. The force detailed for the frontier column from Pokoko will be designated the “Pouk Column” and will consist of the following troops: 1st Madras Lancers, 50 lances under Capt. Lawford ... 10th Madras Infantry, 350 rifles, Col. Leggett commanding ... 10th M.I. Mounted Infantry, 26 Rifles with a British officer. 10th M.I. Mounted Infantry, 50 rank and file under Lt. Wright. The second column from Mandalay will be called the “Kalewa Column” and will be composed of 4 companies, 42nd Gurka Light Infantry, with two British officers. No. 1 Bengal Mounted Battery, 2 guns under a British Officer. One company of Madras Sapper and Miners with a British Officer. Surgeons Doyle and Robertson, with a suitable supply of medical subordinates and field panniers and dhoolies will accompany the Pouk Column while Surgeon Rogers will be in medical charge of the Kalewa Column.
British Officers will be restricted to lbs. 160 of baggage. Native Officers and medical subordinates to 40 lbs., Sepoys to 20 lbs. and followers to 15 lbs. Each man is to carry in his pouch 40 rounds of ammunition, all extra ammunition will be taken on by the Transport Department. Followers, public and private are to be limited to the lowest possible number.
The Transport Officer of the columns is Lt. Campbell, who will also have charge of the Field Treasury Chest. Brigadier General Faunce will, as already stated, have command of the whole operations. He will be accompanied by Capt. Turnan D.A.A.G. and will be joined later on by Major Raikes, C.I.E., who will be his sole adviser on all political frontier matters. Capt. Eyre will also accompany the General to the Frontiers of the Pokoko district, to facilitate the advance of the column through the district.
According to present arrangements only three posts on the Yaw border will be occupied; these being Thellin, Gungah and Kan. Sehoung and Kambala, on the Kalewa border, will be held in the north. The Kalewa Column will be distributed among the latter places, while the Pouk Column will hold the Yaw posts as follows: Thellin – 70 rifles, 10th M.I. under Capt. Mason. Gungah – 150 Rifles, 10th M.I., 25 Mounted Infantry, 10 M.I. under 1 British Officer. Colonel Leggett commands the post. Surgeon Robertson in Medical charge. Kan – Major Leader commands, 130 Rifles, 10 M.I., 50 Mounted Infantry, 10th B.I., Surgeon Doyle in Medial charge.
Each post will be supplied with an interpreter. The troops will observe a strictly defensive attitude. Should the Chins however, become troublesome, they will be followed into their mountains by flying columns from the nearest post and be severely chastised. The Pouk column is now concentrating at Pokoko. The General and staff with a detachment, 10th M.I., under Colonel Leggett arrived from Myngyan on the 9th instant and the detachment, 10th M.I, from Pagan under Major Leader arrived on the 10th instant. Lt. Harvey has come across from Myngyan to arrange for the commissariat supplies of the force. All arrangements will be completed in a few days and the columns will thereafter march to their destinations.
The Moylan Appeal
The telegram from Calcutta correspondent regarding “Mr Fox of Rangoon” being briefed for the Recorder in Mr Moylan’s appeal surprised us as much as it must have our readers and apparently has our contemporary. In the first place Mr Fox is in Rangoon and on the bench and he was one of the colleagues consulted by Mr McEwen before he passed the orders appealed against. Our correspondent, we may state, belongs to the profession and is hardly likely to have been “misinformed.”
Our contemporary thinks Counsel will not be allowed to appear on behalf of the Recorder. It would certainly be strange of they were not. They would be the “Counsel on the other side,” and it will be an altogether novel procedure if the High Court Judges only heard the arguments of Mr Moylan’s side. The Gazette says “if the arguments are untenable the appellate bench will soon correct him; but if an appellant has not only to contend with Counsel on the other side but also Counsel for upholding the judgement appealed from, with also the possibility, in some instances, of having to combat the arguments of the appellate Judges, litigation will have so many additional horrors, that people will shun the Courts like plague spots.”
Writing on the 16th ultimo we notice the Rangoon correspondent of the Civil and Military Gazette is not of the Rangoon Gazette’s opinion, that Mr Moylan is to have all the say in his appeal. He is evidently an anti-Moylanist and this is what he says: “Mr MacEwen (sic) Recorder, has left for Mandalay and intends going as far as Bhamo. Apropos of Mr MacEwen, what absurd things are written in the Pioneer and Englishman, about this case of Mr Moylan’s. For one, that “he had not been apprised of the charges on which he had been suspended till his arrival in Calcutta and consequently had not been allowed an opportunity of showing cause against the order.” It is very much in Mr Moylan’s own style of putting things – just enough of truth in the story to make it so worrying to honest men and so difficult to deny. If a man bolts the morning he knows judgement is to given against him, it is possible he may not be appraised of it as an actual fact till he arrives at his destination, especially when he crosses the ocean; but he will have opportunities of showing cause by the bye and we hope will be able to do so satisfactorily. Then how such an absurd statement as that the proceedings were carried on behind his back can have been circulated and printed by the Pioneer is beyond comprehension, when both Rangoon papers gave full accounts of proceedings in which it was clearly shown that Mr Moylan was in Rangoon coaching his Advocates and did not leave the station till all was over, except the giving of judgement by Mr MacEwen. The whole thing is annoying and vexatious for anyone at all interested n the slightest degree and must have caused no small amount of pain to a gentleman like the Recorder, in being mixed up in this way with Mr Moylan, but all who know Mr MacEwen know that the judgement was not given hastily nor from ill-feeling nor was Mr MacEwen alone in forming the opinion he did. Mr Fox and Mr Meres, both men thoroughly respected and both universally known as gentlemen in the best sense of the word, and both lawyers and men of judgement, were closeted with him in deliberation. Fortunately, though Mr Moylan lost no time in being beforehand in telling his tale in his own way in Calcutta, there are clean-handed lawyers and gentlemen in the Calcutta Courts, and I think, we may leave the issue in their hands in spite of all canards which Mr Moylan’s friends may circulate.”
The telegram from Calcutta correspondent regarding “Mr Fox of Rangoon” being briefed for the Recorder in Mr Moylan’s appeal surprised us as much as it must have our readers and apparently has our contemporary. In the first place Mr Fox is in Rangoon and on the bench and he was one of the colleagues consulted by Mr McEwen before he passed the orders appealed against. Our correspondent, we may state, belongs to the profession and is hardly likely to have been “misinformed.”
Our contemporary thinks Counsel will not be allowed to appear on behalf of the Recorder. It would certainly be strange of they were not. They would be the “Counsel on the other side,” and it will be an altogether novel procedure if the High Court Judges only heard the arguments of Mr Moylan’s side. The Gazette says “if the arguments are untenable the appellate bench will soon correct him; but if an appellant has not only to contend with Counsel on the other side but also Counsel for upholding the judgement appealed from, with also the possibility, in some instances, of having to combat the arguments of the appellate Judges, litigation will have so many additional horrors, that people will shun the Courts like plague spots.”
Writing on the 16th ultimo we notice the Rangoon correspondent of the Civil and Military Gazette is not of the Rangoon Gazette’s opinion, that Mr Moylan is to have all the say in his appeal. He is evidently an anti-Moylanist and this is what he says: “Mr MacEwen (sic) Recorder, has left for Mandalay and intends going as far as Bhamo. Apropos of Mr MacEwen, what absurd things are written in the Pioneer and Englishman, about this case of Mr Moylan’s. For one, that “he had not been apprised of the charges on which he had been suspended till his arrival in Calcutta and consequently had not been allowed an opportunity of showing cause against the order.” It is very much in Mr Moylan’s own style of putting things – just enough of truth in the story to make it so worrying to honest men and so difficult to deny. If a man bolts the morning he knows judgement is to given against him, it is possible he may not be appraised of it as an actual fact till he arrives at his destination, especially when he crosses the ocean; but he will have opportunities of showing cause by the bye and we hope will be able to do so satisfactorily. Then how such an absurd statement as that the proceedings were carried on behind his back can have been circulated and printed by the Pioneer is beyond comprehension, when both Rangoon papers gave full accounts of proceedings in which it was clearly shown that Mr Moylan was in Rangoon coaching his Advocates and did not leave the station till all was over, except the giving of judgement by Mr MacEwen. The whole thing is annoying and vexatious for anyone at all interested n the slightest degree and must have caused no small amount of pain to a gentleman like the Recorder, in being mixed up in this way with Mr Moylan, but all who know Mr MacEwen know that the judgement was not given hastily nor from ill-feeling nor was Mr MacEwen alone in forming the opinion he did. Mr Fox and Mr Meres, both men thoroughly respected and both universally known as gentlemen in the best sense of the word, and both lawyers and men of judgement, were closeted with him in deliberation. Fortunately, though Mr Moylan lost no time in being beforehand in telling his tale in his own way in Calcutta, there are clean-handed lawyers and gentlemen in the Calcutta Courts, and I think, we may leave the issue in their hands in spite of all canards which Mr Moylan’s friends may circulate.”
Mismanagement at Myingyan
The Government is reaping the fruits of the policy of secrecy and monopoly it has been carrying out with reference to the Irrawaddy Flotilla during the past three years. We would call attention to a Myingyan letter, in our issue today, and once again ask that the Government advertise their probable requirements for freight on this river in a few of the principal Indian and English papers, when they would at once have some competition between rival owners for the profit to be derived on the Irrawaddy. Five thousand rupees expended to carry 160 men a few hours journey by river, when 160 ordinary passengers are conveyed the same distance at one rupee per head. It is items such as this which make Government expenditure in Burma so extravagant as it is and which, unless a little common sense enters into public arrangements of the kind, promises to keep the country in a chronic state of deficit, a burden to the Indian taxpayer. The officer in command of the party might have marched his men on board and paid for them as ordinary passengers and saved something like Rs. 4840 to the State. This would have been common sense, but we suppose, red tape forbids such a simple plan and necessitated the delay and extra expenditure.
We would ask the Local Government to do now what we advised them to do a year ago and advertise their probable requirements. It can do no harm and would probably not cost a fourth of the money flung away at Myingyan the week before last. Such advertisement, if it did not induce tenders from India and England, would at once bring the Irrawaddy Flotilla to their bearings and save in one year, thousands, if not lakhs of rupees. We would also ask Sir Charles Crosthwaite to at once call for a report from the Military authorities on the subject of our Myingyan correspondent’s letter. It will be called for in Parliament and to save delay it would be as well that it should be got ready beforehand. At a time when the Flotilla Company are complaining of dull times and when there was plenty of room on board one of their steamers, that men should be refused a passage in order to force Government to incur unnecessary expenditure, may be very sharp from a business point of view, but is, we think, simply inexcusable form a public point. The Government have, no doubt, brought this kind of treatment on their own head, but as it simply means the transfer of large sums of tax-payers money to the shareholders of the Irrawaddy Flotilla, it should be put a stop to once and for all.
The Government is reaping the fruits of the policy of secrecy and monopoly it has been carrying out with reference to the Irrawaddy Flotilla during the past three years. We would call attention to a Myingyan letter, in our issue today, and once again ask that the Government advertise their probable requirements for freight on this river in a few of the principal Indian and English papers, when they would at once have some competition between rival owners for the profit to be derived on the Irrawaddy. Five thousand rupees expended to carry 160 men a few hours journey by river, when 160 ordinary passengers are conveyed the same distance at one rupee per head. It is items such as this which make Government expenditure in Burma so extravagant as it is and which, unless a little common sense enters into public arrangements of the kind, promises to keep the country in a chronic state of deficit, a burden to the Indian taxpayer. The officer in command of the party might have marched his men on board and paid for them as ordinary passengers and saved something like Rs. 4840 to the State. This would have been common sense, but we suppose, red tape forbids such a simple plan and necessitated the delay and extra expenditure.
We would ask the Local Government to do now what we advised them to do a year ago and advertise their probable requirements. It can do no harm and would probably not cost a fourth of the money flung away at Myingyan the week before last. Such advertisement, if it did not induce tenders from India and England, would at once bring the Irrawaddy Flotilla to their bearings and save in one year, thousands, if not lakhs of rupees. We would also ask Sir Charles Crosthwaite to at once call for a report from the Military authorities on the subject of our Myingyan correspondent’s letter. It will be called for in Parliament and to save delay it would be as well that it should be got ready beforehand. At a time when the Flotilla Company are complaining of dull times and when there was plenty of room on board one of their steamers, that men should be refused a passage in order to force Government to incur unnecessary expenditure, may be very sharp from a business point of view, but is, we think, simply inexcusable form a public point. The Government have, no doubt, brought this kind of treatment on their own head, but as it simply means the transfer of large sums of tax-payers money to the shareholders of the Irrawaddy Flotilla, it should be put a stop to once and for all.
Local News - Poultry Farming
The other day we pointed out how advantageous it would be to many of our poorer class of fellow citizens if they would give some time attention to poultry farming and supply their wealthier neighbours with home fed fowls, ducks, geese, eggs etc, instead of allowing these supplies to be obtained from the Bazaars. Mr Williams, the gentleman we referred to on that occasion as having a poultry yard, invited us to go and inspect his farm. We were not disappointed in having to drive down to Botatoung; for we saw there as a nice a collection of fowls, ducks etc. as we have ever seen. All the birds were in splendid condition. He assured us that the cost of rearing poultry is very small and is certainly quite remunerative enough to induce him to extend his operations this cold weather. Besides his poultry farm, Mr Williams in co-partnership with Mr Renwick, has started a ship chandlers’ store for the convenience of ship masters arriving during the coming rice season, a business which, if properly attended to, ought to give a fair return.
The other day we pointed out how advantageous it would be to many of our poorer class of fellow citizens if they would give some time attention to poultry farming and supply their wealthier neighbours with home fed fowls, ducks, geese, eggs etc, instead of allowing these supplies to be obtained from the Bazaars. Mr Williams, the gentleman we referred to on that occasion as having a poultry yard, invited us to go and inspect his farm. We were not disappointed in having to drive down to Botatoung; for we saw there as a nice a collection of fowls, ducks etc. as we have ever seen. All the birds were in splendid condition. He assured us that the cost of rearing poultry is very small and is certainly quite remunerative enough to induce him to extend his operations this cold weather. Besides his poultry farm, Mr Williams in co-partnership with Mr Renwick, has started a ship chandlers’ store for the convenience of ship masters arriving during the coming rice season, a business which, if properly attended to, ought to give a fair return.
December
Adverts. / For Sale - To Let / Notices
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Adverts.
T.E. Kearsing, D.D.S. Surgeon Dentist. Will commence practice at no. 83 Sparks St. on Thur. 6th Dec. 1888 For Sale - Always in Stock Raneegunge Fire Bricks and Fireclay, equal to best English. D.D. Coath To Let Entry, 1st Jan. 1889. House no. 68, Halpin Road, at present occupied by W.F. Meres Esq. Apply to S. Vertannes, 1 Shafraz Rd. Notice Lodge “Star of Burma” Of Mark Master. Wor. Bro. W. Usher, Wor. Master. A regular meeting of above Lodge will be held this evening, Wednesday, 5th instant at 8.30 p.m. precisely. By Order, A.S.A. Akbar, for Secretary. |
To Let
With immediate entry. The “Hermitage” Kokine. Apply to G.S. Taylor, no. 1, Phayre St. Notice The undersigned have started business as wholesale Wine and Spirit Merchants, no. 10, Strand. Samples of all kinds of wines and liquors are now on view. Dickson Morgan & Co. Advert. C.X. D’Souza & Co. At their new building, corner Pagoda and York Roads. Small selection of Cake Ornaments for Wedding, Christening and Xmas Cakes. Cakes for Xmas presents with monogram, made to order. House to Let “The Cottage” 61 Mission Road, for two months, furnished. Apply to: Biedermann Sherriff & Co. |
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Advert.
Irrawaddy Steam Navigation Co The S.S. Maulmein will ply between Rangoon and Bassein via Maubin, carrying passengers and cargo at greatly reduced rates, leaving Rangoon Oliphant Street Wharf every Wednesday morning and Bassein every Saturday. The S.S. Martaban will sail from Rangoon, Oliphant Street Wharf every Thursday mornign for Pindaye, calling at all the intermediate stations, carrying passengers and cargo at greatly reduced rates. For particulars apply to the Company’s office, 64 Canal St. A. Packman, Manager Notices H.R. Arch Chapter “Cyrus.” Attached to Lodge “Star of Burma” no. 614. A regular convocation of the above Chapter will be held in the Masonic Temple, Cantonment, this evening, Wed. at 8.30 p.m. precisely. By Order, W.G. Thornton, Scribe, E. District Grand Lodge of Burma By Command of the Worshipful the Deputy District Grand Master, a Masonic Service will be held on Thursday 27th instant at 7.30 o’clock a.m. Wor. Bro. the Rev’d. John E. Marks, D.D., District Grand Chaplain will preach on the occasion and Very Wor. Bro. the Rev’d. J. Fairclough, Deputy Grand Master P.D.G., Chaplain, will assist in the service. The collection will be in aid of “Poor and distressed Masons.” The attendance of all Freemasons and their friends is earnestly invited. The regular communication of the District Grand Lodge will be held at 6.15 p.m. on Thursday 27th instant, at Freemasons Hall, Montgomery Street. By Order, A.M. Buchanan, Dist. Grand Secretary. |
To Let
That commodious house no. 66 Godwin Road, Cantonment, with very spacious compound. Immediate entry. Apply to Jas. Gahan, A.B.M. Press Adverts. Frank Watson’s Celebrated Haircutting and Shampooing Saloon. Barr St. B. Biele (sic) Established 1887. Dalhousie St., corner of 35th and opposite the Baptist Church. Pianoforte maker and tuner. Harmoniums repaired and tuned. Notice Agra Bank Ltd. A branch of the bank is established in Rangoon for this date. Terms of business may be learnt on application to the undersigned. By order of the Directors. J. Blackhall, Manager, 10 Strand. 15th Dec. 1888 William Murdoch Masters Certified Architect, Builder and Surveyor Open to engagements in all branches of Civil Engineering. Terms Moderate. Municipal Office, 11 – 4 p.m. daily. Residence:- 17 Brooking St. For Sale Owner leaving for Europe One Phaetion by Dykes, only two years in use. One office gharry with pole and shaft. One Piano by Carl Maud. One Billiard Table, full size with lamps and cues compete in perfect order, by Lazarus. No reasonable offer will be refused. Apply to A. Victor Harperink, care of Messrs. Hegt & Co. |
Balthazar & Son
Auction Sales
Saturday the 8th Dec. at the Hermitage, Khokine, household furniture and fittings, the property of A.M. Kennedy.
Saturday the 22nd Dec. at noon, at house no. 163, Camp Road, household furniture and fittings, the property of E. Fayolle Esq.
Sat. 29th Dec. at [68] Halpin Road at noon, household furniture and fittings. The property of F.W. Meres Esq., B.A., Judicial Commissioner of Burma.
Sat. the 15th Dec. at house no 87 Cheap Rd., at noon, household furniture and fittings, the property of a gentleman giving up housekeeping.
Wed. 19th Dec. at 7. 30 a.m. on the spot near Mr Rowett’s bazaar, Poozoondoung, two plant houses, tiled roof, built on leased land.
Sat. 29th Dec. at 8 a.m. at No. 68b, Halpin Road. Flower and foliage plants. The property of W.F. Meres Esq., Judicial Commissioner of Burma.
Sat. 29th Dec. 1888 at No. 68b, Halpin Road, at noon, household furniture and fittings. The property of F.W. (sic) Meres Esq., B.A., Judicial Commissioner of Burma.
Auction Sales
Saturday the 8th Dec. at the Hermitage, Khokine, household furniture and fittings, the property of A.M. Kennedy.
Saturday the 22nd Dec. at noon, at house no. 163, Camp Road, household furniture and fittings, the property of E. Fayolle Esq.
Sat. 29th Dec. at [68] Halpin Road at noon, household furniture and fittings. The property of F.W. Meres Esq., B.A., Judicial Commissioner of Burma.
Sat. the 15th Dec. at house no 87 Cheap Rd., at noon, household furniture and fittings, the property of a gentleman giving up housekeeping.
Wed. 19th Dec. at 7. 30 a.m. on the spot near Mr Rowett’s bazaar, Poozoondoung, two plant houses, tiled roof, built on leased land.
Sat. 29th Dec. at 8 a.m. at No. 68b, Halpin Road. Flower and foliage plants. The property of W.F. Meres Esq., Judicial Commissioner of Burma.
Sat. 29th Dec. 1888 at No. 68b, Halpin Road, at noon, household furniture and fittings. The property of F.W. (sic) Meres Esq., B.A., Judicial Commissioner of Burma.
Advert.
The Methodist Girls’ School
Lewis St., Rangoon. First Terms of 1889 will begin Jan. 6th
Prepares pupils for entrance examination. Expects to begin the year with complete outfit for Kinder Garten work. Miss Files, a trained teacher, has charge of the Normal class. Boarding department, one of the best in the province. Situation excellent for day scholars. Examinations of 1888 best in the history of the school. Prospectus furnishing full particulars to be had free on application to: Miss J.E. Wisner, Ph. B – Principal or Rev’d. S.P. Long, B.A., Hony. Secy.
The Methodist Girls’ School
Lewis St., Rangoon. First Terms of 1889 will begin Jan. 6th
Prepares pupils for entrance examination. Expects to begin the year with complete outfit for Kinder Garten work. Miss Files, a trained teacher, has charge of the Normal class. Boarding department, one of the best in the province. Situation excellent for day scholars. Examinations of 1888 best in the history of the school. Prospectus furnishing full particulars to be had free on application to: Miss J.E. Wisner, Ph. B – Principal or Rev’d. S.P. Long, B.A., Hony. Secy.
Local - General News / Letters to the Editor / Judicial / Articles
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Editorial
Ourselves We beg to remind our readers that from today the Government advertising monopoly, which has been enjoyed by our contemporary for the last five years, has cased. Government officers can now send their notices to either newspapers, without the risk of having to pay for the cost of their notices themselves. We have managed to get on in spite of this monopoly, amazingly, and our subscription list is now almost double what it was when we took over charge 17 months ago; whilst we have certainly more than double the number of advertisements from private sources we had then. If we managed to fight successfully against a government monopoly and a large private monopoly so long we do not think there is much prospect of our failing now and we shall endeavour to conduct the Rangoon Times on similar principles in the future, which have proved so successful and popular in the past. Assault On Thursday afternoon about three o’clock, Mr Carew, a Sub-Inspector of Telegraphs and his wife, both residing in 32nd Street, were seriously assaulted by a Mr Lazaro, a Guard on the Burma State Railway and a Mr Pillew, formerly a clerk in the employment of Mr Drapes, Barrister-in-Law. It appears that the former, who is related to Mr Carew, went to his house and snatched away a baby of about eight months old. When he took it home he returned again accompanied by Pillew half an hour afterwards when a quarrel, over some family matters, ensued in which both committed the assault by striking with a bottle, first Mr Carew on the head and then his wife on the right ear, causing severe injuries. Both the assaulted people were taken to hospital where their wounds were dressed and both the assailants promptly arrested. Rangoon Literary Society At the annual general meeting of the Rangoon Literary Society which was held at the library in York Road on Thur. evening, Mr R.G. Hudson, the Hony. Secy. read the following: The President – The principal event of the year, in connection with the R.L.S. is the incorporation of the Society under Act XX1 of 1860. For the draft scheme we are indebted to our late President Mr Egerton Allen ; the rules and regulations drafted by him with merely a few verbal alterations were unanimously accepted ... A much wanted new catalogue has been prepared and printed and copies are available .. For the execution of this undertaking we are fortunate in securing the services of Mr Jas. Shaw, whose experience in similar work elsewhere enabled him to carry out the onerous task skilfully. ... |
Thayetmyo News
29th Nov. Capt. Schuyler graced this town once more with his auspicious presence on Wed. 21st to visit, I presume, his “cracked” company of Volunteers. On Sat. 24th he held a Volunteer meeting at the Rifle Range of the 29th M.I. which the Volunteers use at present and delivered a very encouraging speech. He seemed highly delighted at the large turn-out (22 in number) and was ashamed to state that since his connection with the Volunteers he has never witnessed such a large number at a range, at the same time intimating his promise of informing the Commandant, at Rangoon, of the interest this Company takes in shooting, due to a few “tips” they were put up to by the Adjutant. The Allanmyo Telegraph Office, hitherto kindly accommodated by the Asst. Commissioner on the lower flooring of his Court Office, was removed into a new building on the 22nd inst. The transfer of the wonder-working wires from one building to t’other, was ably carried out by Mr Rose, Telegraph Master, under the direction of Mr Kingsley, Superintendent. The building is almost completed and made tenantable, the only requirement being the painting thereof. Opium A seizure of twenty-five tolahs of up-country opium was made in the house of a native residing in Latter Street. It appears that Mr Excise Inspector Lewis, who received the information, proceeded to the house in question and there discovered the opium in a box hidden under the bed. Inspection The Hon’ble. Mr Scoble, accompanied by Mr James, secretary to the Govt. of India, Legislative Dept. paid a visit of inspection to the Rangoon College yesterday morning. After seeing the library, school rooms etc. Mr Scoble left, expressing himself well pleased with the general arrangements. Letter to the Editor Tax-Payers of Rangoon Gentlemen, I thank you for the honour you have conferred on me at yesterday’s election. By careful attention to the public interests, I shall endeavour to show that your confidence has not been misplaced. Yours faithfully, D.D. Coath, M.I.M.E. 30th Nov. 1888. |
Petition
Mr Linkeit, an Assistant at Messrs. Jones & Co., filed a Petition against Mr Wilson, a lodging house keeper in the Strand Road, for insult. Complainant stated that he had been staying some months at the house of accused and produced receipted bills to show that he had been punctual in payment. On the 24th ultimo accused gave them notice to quit and on the morning of 28th accused came into the room with a club in his hand, followed by four or five servants, complainant said his wife had hardly finished dressing. Accused ordered complainant’s luggage to be removed and demanded payment for board and lodging. On his replying he would pay him on 1st December accused turned them out of the house and kept their baggage but after a solicitor’s letter had been sent the property had been given up. A summons was granted.
Mr Linkeit, an Assistant at Messrs. Jones & Co., filed a Petition against Mr Wilson, a lodging house keeper in the Strand Road, for insult. Complainant stated that he had been staying some months at the house of accused and produced receipted bills to show that he had been punctual in payment. On the 24th ultimo accused gave them notice to quit and on the morning of 28th accused came into the room with a club in his hand, followed by four or five servants, complainant said his wife had hardly finished dressing. Accused ordered complainant’s luggage to be removed and demanded payment for board and lodging. On his replying he would pay him on 1st December accused turned them out of the house and kept their baggage but after a solicitor’s letter had been sent the property had been given up. A summons was granted.
Sapper and Miners
The following changes have been made in regard to the formation of the Sappers and Mines in Burma: The Sappers of the company will consist of Burmans, Shans, Kachins and Karens and at least one half of the soldiers enlisted should be fairly skilled artificers. Men enlisted as artificers will receive the same rates of working pay as are allowed to the Sapper artificers of the Bengal Corps. Men enlisted as ordinary Sappers will, until they qualify as artificers, receive working pay at the first rate under the rules generally applicable to the native ranks in corps of sappers and Miners.
The following changes have been made in regard to the formation of the Sappers and Mines in Burma: The Sappers of the company will consist of Burmans, Shans, Kachins and Karens and at least one half of the soldiers enlisted should be fairly skilled artificers. Men enlisted as artificers will receive the same rates of working pay as are allowed to the Sapper artificers of the Bengal Corps. Men enlisted as ordinary Sappers will, until they qualify as artificers, receive working pay at the first rate under the rules generally applicable to the native ranks in corps of sappers and Miners.
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Accident
We are sorry to hear of an accident having occurred last week to Mr Godber, Asst. Commissioner of Akyab, who was then here on leave. He was thrown from a dogcart in which a pony had been placed which was warranted quiet to drive. We hear an action for damages is to be filed in the Recorder’s Court against the seller of the pony which he had guaranteed as quiet and broken to harness. Mr Godber’s buggy was completely smashed. |
Mr Booth
Sentence was passed late on Thursday on Mr Booth, a Clerk on the I.M.S. Bhamo. The prisoner was charged with, 1st, criminal breach of trust in respect of a voucher for Rs. 76. 2nd, criminal breach of trust in respect of six vouchers aggregating Rs. 107 on which he drew up a bill and attempted to pass it. In consideration of his youth the District Magistrate sentenced him to six months’ rigorous imprisonment. |
Inquiry
The Government have ordered that a Court of Inquiry be held next week on Captain Allen of the Nyanza, to examine into and report upon the reason why the vessel grounded on the Barragua Flats. |
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Theft
A case which clearly shows the carelessness how matters are looked into by the police has been brought to our notice. In October a European named Mr P.E. Wrixon arrived from India for the purpose of establishing some kind of business, but a few days after his coming he had, owing to ill health, to go to hospital, to which place he was conveyed in a second-class gharry no. 445. Arriving there he found a courier bag, containing many valuables, missing. He reported the matter to the D.S. Police and subsequently wrote two letters about it, when after an interval of ten days, Inspector Babu Khan proceeded to the hospital along with the driver of the gharry. Mr Wrixon immediately charged him with theft, there being two other witnesses to substantiate his statement and the Inspector took the man away apparently quite satisfied. Up to the present date nothing further has been done or heard in the matter but Mr Wrixon intends to make searching enquiries when circumstances permit of him doing so. |
Transfer
Capt. Vince, formerly Marine Superintendent of the Irrawaddy Flotilla in Rangoon is, we hear, to be appointed to the responsible post of Agent of the Company at Bassein. Capt. Vince’s genial presence will be missed in Rangoon, but he will, no doubt, worthily uphold the reputation of his employers in his new post and Bassein society will gain what Rangoon loses by Capt. Vince’s departure. I.S.N. Co. We hear that Capt. Backman, late of the Flotilla Service, has joined the Irrawaddy Steam Navigation Company and that he and Capt. Morgan will supervise the working of these steamers in the delta. Six more boas for this Company are, we understand, on their way out from England. |
Elephant Point News
At about 1 p.m. this afternoon a fire broke out at the Point amongst the Burman houses, two houses were completely burnt down and but for the exertions of Messrs. Dyer of the Cable Company and Gernon of the Government Telegraphs it would have spread further ... We have a cricket club now here in practice almost daily and it would a bit enliven the place if a challenge by the Spidges were given. ... By Jove, I forgot, we have a band here now and I dare say those few who are acquainted with the “Point” would be surprised to hear us play of an evening so Sweet and Low. Talk about Schuyler’s Own by Jove, we are coming to the front. 30th Nov.
Sister Angelique, deceased
We regret to announce that Sister Angelique of the Covent of the Good Shepherd died on Sunday morning, [2nd Dec.] after a fortnight’s illness. Until Saturday night no fears were entertained of the illness having a fatal termination but during the night she sank very rapidly. Her loss is very deeply felt by the orphans and her place in the workroom, where she ruled with so gentle a hand, will be hard to fill. Her funeral, which took place yesterday morning, [3rd Dec.] was attended by all the members of the two convents as well the children belonging to the Brother’s school, and the coffin was preceded by two hundred girls dressed in white, Sister Angelique, who had been some thirteen years in Burma, was the oldest nun, though not the senior one, of the convent of the Good Shepherd.
At about 1 p.m. this afternoon a fire broke out at the Point amongst the Burman houses, two houses were completely burnt down and but for the exertions of Messrs. Dyer of the Cable Company and Gernon of the Government Telegraphs it would have spread further ... We have a cricket club now here in practice almost daily and it would a bit enliven the place if a challenge by the Spidges were given. ... By Jove, I forgot, we have a band here now and I dare say those few who are acquainted with the “Point” would be surprised to hear us play of an evening so Sweet and Low. Talk about Schuyler’s Own by Jove, we are coming to the front. 30th Nov.
Sister Angelique, deceased
We regret to announce that Sister Angelique of the Covent of the Good Shepherd died on Sunday morning, [2nd Dec.] after a fortnight’s illness. Until Saturday night no fears were entertained of the illness having a fatal termination but during the night she sank very rapidly. Her loss is very deeply felt by the orphans and her place in the workroom, where she ruled with so gentle a hand, will be hard to fill. Her funeral, which took place yesterday morning, [3rd Dec.] was attended by all the members of the two convents as well the children belonging to the Brother’s school, and the coffin was preceded by two hundred girls dressed in white, Sister Angelique, who had been some thirteen years in Burma, was the oldest nun, though not the senior one, of the convent of the Good Shepherd.
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Accident
Mr Catchick of the Arracan Company, met with a serious accident in China Street on Sunday. It appears that he, along with a few friends, had proceeded to the Showy Dagon Pagoda in a ticca gharry and on returning home took possession of the reins from the gharrywhalla. When near China Street the pony shied at some water-pipes, causing Mr Catchrick to be thrown forcibly on his head to the ground, whereby he received three ugly wounds extending from the bridge of the nose and left eye to the back of the head. He was conveyed to the hospital where his injuries were promptly attended to. Thefts On Saturday evening, the Asst. Magistrate delivered judgement in the case of Macnamara and Vincent, charged with stealing a hat and a cap from the house of Mr Lawrie in Sandwith Road. The Magistrate sentenced them each to one month’s rigorous imprisonment. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A Burman Advocate, residing at the back of the Brother’s School near Sparks Street, complains very much that during the last three years not a Constable has been seen once on duty either in the day or night time and although thefts in that quarter are of common occurrence and he has on several occasions complained to the Police, no notice has ever been taken of his repeated applications. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ On Tour Mr Fryer, Financial Commissioner and General Stedman, accompanied by Mr Lake, Personal Assistant to the Inspector-General of Police, arrived yesterday evening on the I.M.S. Enterprise, from making a Tour of Inspection at Tavoy and Mergui. |
Mr Klier
On Sunday Mr Kiler, (sic) photographer, taking advantage of the scaffolding which has just lately been erected to the top of the Soolay Pagoda, ascended and took views of different parts of the town. We hear that he obtained some splendid sights and as these, when finished, will undoubtedly make nice Christmas or New Year cards for friends, we would advise our readers to pay Mr Klier’s establishment a visit. Postings Mr H.C. Jones, a Cooper’s Hill Asst. Engineer, who had just completed his practical training in England, arrived at Rangoon by the last mail steamer and is posted to the Pegu division under Mr Algie, Executive Engineer. Dr. Dawson As the new large jail at Myingyan, in Upper Burma, requires an experienced Superintendent to take charge of it, we learn Dr. R.S. Dawson, Civil Surgeon at Henzada, has been transferred for that purpose and will also have Civil Medical Charge of Myingyan. A Court of Inquiry:- President: The Deputy Commissioner. Members: W.Q. Rowett, Merchant, Capt. Johnston of the Ellora, Deep Sea Capt. and Mr Miller, Pilot, was held yesterday to examine into and report upon the reasons why the Nganza grounded on the Barragua Flats. Capt. Allen, of the Nganza stated that on the evening of the 19th he was steering N.N.E. he was looking for the Krishna Light and about 10 p.m. went aground on the Barragua Flats. That the steamer remained aground for nearly a day and he took continue soundings, finding himself in 19ft. [of] water. Eventually, he got the steamer off by throwing 43 tons of patent fuel over-board. Capt. Allen also said that he had no previous knowledge of the coast. The opinion of the Court has been forwarded to the Chief Commissioner. |
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Pyinmana News
The Rev’d. A. Salmond and the Rev’d. Fr. Conte both of Toungoo, paid us a visit about the middle of last month and right glad were the members of their respective churches to welcome their clergymen. These occasional visits, perhaps on account of their rarity, are much appreciated; but privately I would like to see them repeated oftener and I feel sure that there are many people in the place who consider it a hardship to be left without a minister for several months at a stretch. Now that we are within a few hours run of Toungoo it should be easy to look after the spiritual wants of both congregations. Mr Tucker, the Commissioner, left Pyinmana on the 24th Nov. on a five weeks’ sea trip. It is rumoured that Mr C.E. Gladstone, who returns from furlough shortly, will officiate during Mr Tucker’s absence. The Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police are out on tour so all current work devolves on the Myook, a Lower Burman. If anything were to go wrong now, I wonder who would be held responsible. The district is fairly quiet and the inhabitants are busy attending to their crops which have grown to perfection this season, the yield being double last years outturn. |
Shwegyeen News
Ever since the formation of this district in 1855, this town, as its headquarter station, has been considered the proper place to hold the Sessions Court. The only exception was made by Colonel E.M. Ryan in 1869. This officer was rightly described as the quintessence of politeness and laziness and he would never go a foot further than he could avoid, so he held the Sessions Court at Belin, being the nearest place in this district, at that period, to Moulmain. Since the railway has been built through the district several other Sessions Judges have held Sessions in this district other than the present Commissioner, Messrs. Burgess, Ireland, Hodgkinson, Copolestone, but none have gone out of the way to treat us with such contempt, to almost invariably hold the Sessions Court at Pyuntaza, as Colonel Plant is now doing and, in fact, by so doing, he cannot possibly see much of the country under his administration. But we are bound to admit that the road from the Railway station to Payunmaung is in a most disgraceful state, as indeed it ever has been. |
Inspections
The following officers are appointed to carry out the annual inspection of gardens, stations and offices etc. on the Irrawaddy and Sittang Branches between Prome and Toungoo – Mr W. Innes, Traffic Superintendent and Mr Dudgeon the Locomotive Superintendent, Mr A.R. Lilley, Executive Engineer on the Irrawaddy Line and Mr E.H. Clementson, Executive Engineer on the Sittang Line.
Elephants
We hear that that indefatigable elephant exporter, Mr W.A. Nicol of Lower Kemmendine Road, has received another order for four young elephants to be delivered in London in the ensuing spring. One of these young animals was brought to his premises this week and considerable consternation was caused from its mother, who uprooted Mr Nicol’s substantial gate in her efforts to get back her young one. Twenty-four hours afterwards, however, the young one was apparently reconciled to its fate and feeding peacefully on young plantain trees and grass as if it had been accustomed to being an orphan all its life.
Lost
At Lower Poozoondoung on Tuesday the 4th instant, a white Fox Terrier with black and brown marks. Answers to the name of “Patch.” Finder will be rewarded on returning to W. Mutter, Bulloch Bros., Lower Poozoondoung.
The following officers are appointed to carry out the annual inspection of gardens, stations and offices etc. on the Irrawaddy and Sittang Branches between Prome and Toungoo – Mr W. Innes, Traffic Superintendent and Mr Dudgeon the Locomotive Superintendent, Mr A.R. Lilley, Executive Engineer on the Irrawaddy Line and Mr E.H. Clementson, Executive Engineer on the Sittang Line.
Elephants
We hear that that indefatigable elephant exporter, Mr W.A. Nicol of Lower Kemmendine Road, has received another order for four young elephants to be delivered in London in the ensuing spring. One of these young animals was brought to his premises this week and considerable consternation was caused from its mother, who uprooted Mr Nicol’s substantial gate in her efforts to get back her young one. Twenty-four hours afterwards, however, the young one was apparently reconciled to its fate and feeding peacefully on young plantain trees and grass as if it had been accustomed to being an orphan all its life.
Lost
At Lower Poozoondoung on Tuesday the 4th instant, a white Fox Terrier with black and brown marks. Answers to the name of “Patch.” Finder will be rewarded on returning to W. Mutter, Bulloch Bros., Lower Poozoondoung.
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Local News
Godown Auction We are informed that owing to instructions received from Mr Innes, Traffic Superintendent, Burma State Railways, Mr Ochme, Traffic Inspector, is at present busily engaged letting out all the paddy godowns at the different stations along the line of Railway by means of putting them up for auction. We understand a great many representatives of the different firms in Rangoon have gone up country with a view of bidding and as the season gives every prospect of being a most lucrative one, the Railway authorities are in hopes of obtaining large results. Tiger With reference to the tiger which was killed at Prome the other day, there is, we hear, a dispute as to which of the three men shot it. The carcase and brains have been sold. The latter fetching Rs. 25 which has been utilised for the purpose of making Burmese medicine, while the skin has been appropriated by Mr Henderson in whose compound the brute was shot. Each of the Shikari’s claims to have shot it, but it is said that Mr Henderson was the first to wound it, in which case the Government award will be given to him. Mr McEwen, officiating Recorder, we hear, goes on leave to Europe in January, the Additional Recorder taking over his duties pending the return of Mr Agnew. |
Robbery
The other night a robbery was perpetrated in the house of Mrs Dowsing, a Boarding House keeper residing at no. 1 Sparks Street. The thief or thieves appear to have succeeded in ascending the stairs quietly outside, walking along the verandah and gaining admittance to one of the rooms by opening a window. The property which was stolen, we believe, consists of two coats, one of which contained Rs. 3-12 and various other articles. This is the fifth attempt made within the last ten days, the first four proving failures. The matter has been reported to the police. Agents Mr F.A. Gillam, late Agent of the Bank of Bengal in this city, is said to be in South Africa. Mr Gordon, who was many years ago an Agent here, is manager of a South African Bank we understand. Elections Messrs. Cameron, Duncan, White, Moung Zan Oo, Moung Mra Oo, Moung Oung Rhee and Moung San Hla Baw, have been elected as Municipal Commissions, defeating five other candidates in Akyab. For the Mahomedans:- Messrs. Nurjoomodeen, Budderudn and Abdol Kadir were elected without opposition. |
Thayetmyo News
It surprises me how it escaped my memory in not having reported the accident which happened to the Rev’d. Lathan Browne lately. He had a nasty fall from his pony by the breaking of a stirrup leather and was pronounced seriously ill for a few days. I am now glad to say that he is himself once ore and moving about as usual.
The Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police left Thayetmyo on Monday for Myothit to aid in the accomplishment of the final blow to the dahmyahs.
The I.F. Company’s launch Leo, plying between Thayetmyo and Sinboungwe, was grounded three times on Wed. the 28th, owing to a careless Tindal’s navigation; the last time it stuck so fast on a large sandbank on the side of the fort, and being too dark to do anything, the passengers were obliged to remain all night n board!
The Hon’ble Arthur Hay visited this station, inspected the Police forces on Mon. the 26th and left Prome by the day’s express steamer.
I deeply sympathise with the feeling of Capt. Carden, Paymaster, Leicesters, when announcing the sudden death of his child, aged 9 months, on Saturday night, the 1st instant.
It surprises me how it escaped my memory in not having reported the accident which happened to the Rev’d. Lathan Browne lately. He had a nasty fall from his pony by the breaking of a stirrup leather and was pronounced seriously ill for a few days. I am now glad to say that he is himself once ore and moving about as usual.
The Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police left Thayetmyo on Monday for Myothit to aid in the accomplishment of the final blow to the dahmyahs.
The I.F. Company’s launch Leo, plying between Thayetmyo and Sinboungwe, was grounded three times on Wed. the 28th, owing to a careless Tindal’s navigation; the last time it stuck so fast on a large sandbank on the side of the fort, and being too dark to do anything, the passengers were obliged to remain all night n board!
The Hon’ble Arthur Hay visited this station, inspected the Police forces on Mon. the 26th and left Prome by the day’s express steamer.
I deeply sympathise with the feeling of Capt. Carden, Paymaster, Leicesters, when announcing the sudden death of his child, aged 9 months, on Saturday night, the 1st instant.
Local News
Pamphlets
The local Post Office have returned to us, undelivered, two pamphlets entitled “The Trust and the Flotilla” and “A Queer Story,” [posted?] to the address of George Milne Esq., care of Thomas McLaren & Co., Glasgow, Scotland. We shall be happy to deliver it to the sender on his calling round for it. “Great minds evidently run in the same groove.” In the early part of this year we had occasion to publish the pamphlets in question, in the interest of the trade and commerce of Burma and of the public good in general, pointing out in some portions of the former pamphlet the peculiar relationship that seemed to exist between the Local Government and the Flotilla and now, at the close of this year, another pamphlet has issued from Rangoon entitled “The Times Correspondent and the Local Administration, 1886-88,” not in the interests of the trade and commerce of Burma and of the public good in general; but in vindication of itself only – the motto of the first pamphlet was “pro bona publico” and that the “mysterious pamphlet” should be “pro bono suo.”
Pamphlets
The local Post Office have returned to us, undelivered, two pamphlets entitled “The Trust and the Flotilla” and “A Queer Story,” [posted?] to the address of George Milne Esq., care of Thomas McLaren & Co., Glasgow, Scotland. We shall be happy to deliver it to the sender on his calling round for it. “Great minds evidently run in the same groove.” In the early part of this year we had occasion to publish the pamphlets in question, in the interest of the trade and commerce of Burma and of the public good in general, pointing out in some portions of the former pamphlet the peculiar relationship that seemed to exist between the Local Government and the Flotilla and now, at the close of this year, another pamphlet has issued from Rangoon entitled “The Times Correspondent and the Local Administration, 1886-88,” not in the interests of the trade and commerce of Burma and of the public good in general; but in vindication of itself only – the motto of the first pamphlet was “pro bona publico” and that the “mysterious pamphlet” should be “pro bono suo.”
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Editorial
The Flotilla General Manager and Ourselves On the 27th Nov. we published a letter from the General Manager of the Irrawaddy Flotilla which, perhaps, it might be as well to re-produce here. It was as follows: "A Contradiction Sir, In your paper today, you print a letter from your Meingyan correspondent wherein he makes certain statements, permit me to tell you that the steamer Ava did not carry any soldiers and that the story of our being paid Rs. 5000 for conveying 160 or any other number of men, from Meingyan to Pokokoo, is entirely with foundation. Yours faithfully, George J. Swann, General Manager, Irrawaddy Flotilla Co. 26th Nov.” We then stated we would make further enquiries and we have done so. Whilst there is not a particle of absolute mis-statement in the General Manager’s letter to us and there were some mis-statements in our Myingyan letter and article, the latter would be more likely we think, to convey nearly correct impressions of what happened, than the General Manager’s letter. The Ava conveyed no soldiers to Pokokoo. They were carried by Burmese cargo boats. But the Ava was chartered by the Government from the Flotilla Company for Rs. 5000 as we stated, in consequence of instructions from Rangoon having been received at Myingyan, that the Pekin was not to take more than 125 men, although there was plenty of room on board for 700 or 800 men, to proceed on a few hours’ journey to Pokokoo. The Military authorities in Mandalay chartered the Ava for Rs. 5000 in consequence of this refusal of the Captain of the Pekin to take more than 125 men on board his vessel and the action of the Flotilla Manager forced this charter on the Government as more profitable to the Flotilla than carrying troops as passengers in ordinary steamers. The action of the Flotilla in this Myingyan business only emphasises what we wrote the other day, that having a State Railway between Rangoon and Mandalay, the Government should take steps to link both termini with other stations on the river by means either of their own steamers or contract steamers for which tenders should be called in England and India. With such steamers running. The State Railway would not be at the disadvantage it now is, when communication is required by either Government, or the public with such places as Myingyan or Pokokoo. It is absurd that the Government shall remain on the Irrawaddy for ever at the mercy of the Flotilla Company, which has, as the Government pamphlet recently issued at the Secretariat Press says, a monopoly of the Steam Traffic on the river. It is to the interest of the Government, its State Railway, the trade and people that this monopoly shall cease and that the Government shall make arrangements for linking the termini of its railway with all other stations on the river. This can only be done by the Government having steamers on the river or calling for tenders for their supply, to run at fixed rates for goods and passengers carried by the Railway between the different stations. With such a steam service as this plying there could have been no refusal of the Flotilla to allow men, urgently wanted for the Chin expedition, to go on board the Pekin and there would have been no necessity for its Military authorities chartering the Ava for Rs. 5000, to do work which was after all, performed either by Burmese boats, or ordinary Flotilla steamers at a very much smaller cost. |
Tavoy News
Eight of the rebels here were hanged yesterday in the centre of the town. The arrangements went off without a hitch and the men met their doom quietly and apparently painlessly. Three more men have been sentenced to death, the confirmation of their sentences had not arrived from Rangoon. We hear nearly xx more rebels and dacoits are on tier way here as prisoners form Siam. We are expecting our worthy Sessions Judge, Colonel Plant here to try them. It is to be hoped these executions will have a deterrent effect on the disaffected, if any such remain. Mr Holman of this place has sent for a powerful engine and large boiler and purposes putting up an oil mill and saw mill in addition to his new rice mill; so much for the progress of Tavoy. We shall miss Dr. Nailer, our Civil Surgeon, who is much liked by people in Tavoy. General Stedman and Mr Fryer were recently here on Inspection duty and have since left for Headquarters. Calcutta News The 6th Criminal Sessions in the high Court opened to day ... On the appellate side, the record in the case of the soldier Grange has been received and the 16th of January fixed for the hearing. The prisoner will be represented by Mr T. Apcar, instructed by Mr Temple, the Solicitor, brother to Mr Temple of Rangoon; Mr Kilby, the Asst. Legal Remembrancer, will appear for the town. Mr Ernest, Accident A rather serious accident happened to Mr Ernest, Watchmaker to Messrs. A. Minck & Co., on Sunday. It appears that he had been away spending the day with a few friends and on the return journey was accidently knocked down by the tramway at the junction of Canal and China streets, the wheels passing over his right foot causing three ugly looking wounds and exposing the bone. He was immediately removed o the General Hospital and he is progressing as favourably as can be expected under the circumstances. We are of opinion that the tramway conductors should lessen the speed they go at in this quarters, seeing it is about the most crowded part of the town. Fire Yesterday morning about four o’clock, a fire was discovered in a house, no. 16 Lewis St., which might have proved very serious if it had not been for the timely assistance rendered by Mr Bucke, a Travelling Ticket Examiner on the Burma State Railway. It appears that about the time already referred to, smoke was observed issuing from the back part of the house and on an inspection being made it was found that the floor was on fire. Mr Buckle (sic) immediately rushed for water and fortunately managed to extinguish the flames, which, if a few minutes later, might otherwise have resulted in the total destruction of the whole block of buildings. Upper Burma Summary There were several dacoities in the Shwebo and Myingyan districts. In [the] rest of Upper Burma there were no occurrences of special importance. Burmese Police successfully attacked dacoits in Shwebo and Sagaing districts; and there were several surrenders of members of well-known gangs in Sagaing and in the Southern Division. Mr Ernest, Accident With reference to the paragraph which appeared in our columns of yesterday’s date, regarding the accident which occurred to Mr Ernest, Watchmaker to Messrs. A. Minck & Co., on Sunday by the Tramway running over his right foot at the junction of Canal and China Streets, we regret to say that the nature of the injuries proved to be so serious as to necessitate the amputation of the limb yesterday morning, six inches above the ankle. Much sympathy is felt for the poor lad by those with whom he was intimately acquainted. We hear that an action for substantial damages will be taken against the proprietor of the Tramway. |
Irrawaddy Flotilla Steamer - Narrow Escape
The I.F.S. Dufferin on her voyage down from Mandalay with nearly 800 passengers on board had a narrow escape of knocking a hole in her bottom while passing a dangerous part of the river between Thayetmyo and Minhla. We hear that the Engineers are in trouble over the incident and have been removed from the steamer pending further enquiries into the circumstances of the case.
The I.F.S. Dufferin on her voyage down from Mandalay with nearly 800 passengers on board had a narrow escape of knocking a hole in her bottom while passing a dangerous part of the river between Thayetmyo and Minhla. We hear that the Engineers are in trouble over the incident and have been removed from the steamer pending further enquiries into the circumstances of the case.
Port Commissioners
Excerpts from the proceedings of the Two Hundred and Thirty-first meeting of the Commissioners held 5th Dec. 1888.
Read a letter from the Secretary, Rangoon Municipality dated 22nd Nov. requesting that a Port Commissioner may be elected to represent the Trust on the Municipal Board as the term of office of the present members will expire on 31st Dec. Resolved that the Secretary to the Rangoon Municipality be informed that the Commissioners have re-elected M L. Andrews to represent them on the Municipal Board.
Read a letter from the Asst. Conservator of the Port dated 30th Nov. forwarding the proceedings of a Committee convened to examine Mr R. Hoare, Commander of the P.S. Rangoon, as to his qualifications for a special Pilot’s license for that steamer. Finding of the Committee – The Committee are of opinion after having duly considered the answers given by Mr Hoare to the several questions put to him, that he is qualified to hold a special license for the P.S. Rangoon. Resolved that a special License be granted to Mr Hoare.
Read a letter from the Asst. Conservator of the Port dated 1st Dec. forwarding an application from Mr C. Berry, 1st grade Pilot, for one month’s leave on urgent private affairs and stating that he has granted the leave in anticipation of the sanction of the Port Commissioners. Resolved that the Asst. Conservator be informed that the Commissioners confirm the leave granted to Mr Berry.
Read a letter from the Asst. Conservator of the Port dated 5th Dec. forwarding an application from Mr J.H. Lightfoot, 4th grade Pilot to be examined as to his qualifications for a 3rd grade Pilot’s license for the Rangoon river. Resolved that the Asst. Conservator be informed that the Commissioners sanction a Committee being convened for the purpose.
Excerpts from the proceedings of the Two Hundred and Thirty-first meeting of the Commissioners held 5th Dec. 1888.
Read a letter from the Secretary, Rangoon Municipality dated 22nd Nov. requesting that a Port Commissioner may be elected to represent the Trust on the Municipal Board as the term of office of the present members will expire on 31st Dec. Resolved that the Secretary to the Rangoon Municipality be informed that the Commissioners have re-elected M L. Andrews to represent them on the Municipal Board.
Read a letter from the Asst. Conservator of the Port dated 30th Nov. forwarding the proceedings of a Committee convened to examine Mr R. Hoare, Commander of the P.S. Rangoon, as to his qualifications for a special Pilot’s license for that steamer. Finding of the Committee – The Committee are of opinion after having duly considered the answers given by Mr Hoare to the several questions put to him, that he is qualified to hold a special license for the P.S. Rangoon. Resolved that a special License be granted to Mr Hoare.
Read a letter from the Asst. Conservator of the Port dated 1st Dec. forwarding an application from Mr C. Berry, 1st grade Pilot, for one month’s leave on urgent private affairs and stating that he has granted the leave in anticipation of the sanction of the Port Commissioners. Resolved that the Asst. Conservator be informed that the Commissioners confirm the leave granted to Mr Berry.
Read a letter from the Asst. Conservator of the Port dated 5th Dec. forwarding an application from Mr J.H. Lightfoot, 4th grade Pilot to be examined as to his qualifications for a 3rd grade Pilot’s license for the Rangoon river. Resolved that the Asst. Conservator be informed that the Commissioners sanction a Committee being convened for the purpose.
Pyinmana News
Capt. Schuyler, the popular Adjutant of the Burma State Railway Volunteers, came up here on inspection last Thursday and held three parades which were well attended.
His presence was hailed with delight by the men among whom are a few who consented to join the Upper Burma Volunteers about a year ago. The Adjutant of this Cops is here on recruiting duty and seemed to think that though Pyinmana was neglected for a good twelve months, the men who then expressed their willingness to join him and who have since gone over in a body to the railway, were bound to fulfil their original promise. This they declined to do, as, in the first instance, Mandalay let them “slide” and they were not going to run the risk of being subjected to similar treatment any more. But the Adjutant was determined, threatened court martials and other such terrors all of which the men were willing to stand, when suddenly Capt. Schuyler, who got wind of the affair, appeared on the scene prepared to do battle and take the part of the turn-coats as the other Adjutant was good enough to call them.
The result you can easily guess. The gallant Capt. carried the day and all disputes are put an end to by the simple plan of the men, under dispute, sending in their resignations to the Upper Burma Vol. Corps. This they have done without loss of time for after the great care and trouble that has been taken by the Railway Corps it would be ingratitude on their part to desert for a new man whose promises all along have ended in smoke.
I am told Capt. Schuyler mentioned something about a Camp of Exercise at Thayetmyo to be held in Xmas week and invited the men to attend. None are likely to go from here as the distance is too great. 9th Dec.
Capt. Schuyler, the popular Adjutant of the Burma State Railway Volunteers, came up here on inspection last Thursday and held three parades which were well attended.
His presence was hailed with delight by the men among whom are a few who consented to join the Upper Burma Volunteers about a year ago. The Adjutant of this Cops is here on recruiting duty and seemed to think that though Pyinmana was neglected for a good twelve months, the men who then expressed their willingness to join him and who have since gone over in a body to the railway, were bound to fulfil their original promise. This they declined to do, as, in the first instance, Mandalay let them “slide” and they were not going to run the risk of being subjected to similar treatment any more. But the Adjutant was determined, threatened court martials and other such terrors all of which the men were willing to stand, when suddenly Capt. Schuyler, who got wind of the affair, appeared on the scene prepared to do battle and take the part of the turn-coats as the other Adjutant was good enough to call them.
The result you can easily guess. The gallant Capt. carried the day and all disputes are put an end to by the simple plan of the men, under dispute, sending in their resignations to the Upper Burma Vol. Corps. This they have done without loss of time for after the great care and trouble that has been taken by the Railway Corps it would be ingratitude on their part to desert for a new man whose promises all along have ended in smoke.
I am told Capt. Schuyler mentioned something about a Camp of Exercise at Thayetmyo to be held in Xmas week and invited the men to attend. None are likely to go from here as the distance is too great. 9th Dec.
Billiards
The Billiard Handicap referred to some short time ago in our columns as being played in the Club of the Rangoon Volunteer Artillery was finished on Tuesday night resulting in a victory for Mr E.A. Lutter who beat Mr W.E. Mack, of the Rangoon College, the scores being 308 to 177.
Marine Notification
Tenders for the supply of fresh water to Government vessels and transports visiting the Port of Rangoon during the year 1889 will be received by the undersigned ... Fred. Warden, H.M.’s I.M., Port Officer.
The Billiard Handicap referred to some short time ago in our columns as being played in the Club of the Rangoon Volunteer Artillery was finished on Tuesday night resulting in a victory for Mr E.A. Lutter who beat Mr W.E. Mack, of the Rangoon College, the scores being 308 to 177.
Marine Notification
Tenders for the supply of fresh water to Government vessels and transports visiting the Port of Rangoon during the year 1889 will be received by the undersigned ... Fred. Warden, H.M.’s I.M., Port Officer.
Irrawaddy Flotilla
Burning of the steamer Yoma
Our readers will learn with regret the loss by fire of the Irrawaddy Flotilla steamer Yoma at Mingyan. The fire, it seems, broke out about 11 p.m. on Tuesday night, in the bales of cotton with which the vessel was being loaded. Passengers and the mails have been saved, arrangements were at once made for shipping them by another vessel to Rangoon. Our representatives obtained these particulars at the office of the Company in Rangoon, owing to the courtesy of Mr F.C. Kennedy, C.I.E., the Manager, who kindly directed that a copy of all the information that was to be sent to our contemporary should be sent to us, but this order does not seem to have been carried out. The fire was, according to telegrams received by Chinese Merchants, burning fiercely yesterday about 2 p.m. We fear the Yoma’s days are numbered.
She has, we believe, been a successful boat to the company and her careful Commander, Capt. Patterson, (sic) has been singularly fortunate in her as well as in the other steamers he has so long commanded. It is to be regretted the Yoma should have met with such an accident on the eve of Capt. Patterson’s retirement from the service, but we may be certain that it was no fault of his and that all that could be done to avert such a disaster was done.
The Express Mail Service of the Flotilla Company will go on as usual, as they have always vessels on hand to eb able to meet a disaster of this kind with equanimity, great though the loss to them undoubtedly is.
Burning of the steamer Yoma
Our readers will learn with regret the loss by fire of the Irrawaddy Flotilla steamer Yoma at Mingyan. The fire, it seems, broke out about 11 p.m. on Tuesday night, in the bales of cotton with which the vessel was being loaded. Passengers and the mails have been saved, arrangements were at once made for shipping them by another vessel to Rangoon. Our representatives obtained these particulars at the office of the Company in Rangoon, owing to the courtesy of Mr F.C. Kennedy, C.I.E., the Manager, who kindly directed that a copy of all the information that was to be sent to our contemporary should be sent to us, but this order does not seem to have been carried out. The fire was, according to telegrams received by Chinese Merchants, burning fiercely yesterday about 2 p.m. We fear the Yoma’s days are numbered.
She has, we believe, been a successful boat to the company and her careful Commander, Capt. Patterson, (sic) has been singularly fortunate in her as well as in the other steamers he has so long commanded. It is to be regretted the Yoma should have met with such an accident on the eve of Capt. Patterson’s retirement from the service, but we may be certain that it was no fault of his and that all that could be done to avert such a disaster was done.
The Express Mail Service of the Flotilla Company will go on as usual, as they have always vessels on hand to eb able to meet a disaster of this kind with equanimity, great though the loss to them undoubtedly is.
Letters to the Editor
Rangoon General Hospital
Sir, In your issue of the 3rd instant under heading Local, I notice an account regarding the loss of my courier bag with contents, which does not exactly describe the case as it should, hence I feel myself compelled to send you a correct and detailed version of the affair, which I trust you will insert in your paper on an early date.
Illness and my being in hospital prevented earlier action being taken by me in giving the matter publicity (as also a desire to allow the Police time to act in the matter) and bringing it to the notice of the authorities, as I should have done, under different and more fortunate circumstances, so as to arm new comers and travellers against similar occurrences and let them know what they may expect in Rangoon if they fancy that honesty and security are prevalent to [the] same extent as in other parts of British India, also to give them a fair idea of the activity, zeal and energy displayed by the Police in such cases. You, Mr Editor, the public and authorities will no doubt, praise or censure as may be justly due to the serving parties.
On Saturday morning, the 3rd November, I engaged 2nd class Hackney carriage no. 445 and put in my portmantean, bedding, sola hat and courier bag containing my certificates, letters, papers etc. and after paying cooly and the driver of the carriage the one rupee agreed upon, ordered him to drive me to the Rangoon General Hospital; instead of obeying orders he drove all over the place for an hour or more and then pulled up before a Hotel! I took advantage of this and enquired of a gentleman the distance to the hospital, he very kindly offered to accompany and show me the place; on our arrival at it we both went in and saw the Doctor in charge, I stated my case and desired admittance; was asked to wait as the Doctor was otherwise engaged. The Steward (Mr Graham) showed me into a Surgical Ward and said he would see to all my traps being removed into the Store room safely, I thanked him and waited as requested. By this time I was fairly exhausted and fell asleep.
On Sunday morning I was ordered up to Ward no. 1; previous to coming up, I went into the store room to see the Steward, Mr Graham and my things, found my courier bag and contents missing and was informed that no courier bag had been taken out of the carriage. I complained, and regarding its loss requested the Steward to do all he could towards its recovery. Was told to report loss to the Police, which I did on 5th November giving full particulars; Mr Olive D.S.P., a few days after called and took down the name of the gentleman who accompanied me. Subsequently I wrote twice to enquire if it has been recovered or not, and exactly ten days after Police Inspector Baby Khan came up in carriage no. 445 with same driver whom I had on the 3rd.
On hearing the driver state that he made no courier bag over I at once charged him with theft, stating names of witnesses etc. and Mr Graham, the Rangoon General Hospital Steward also informed the Inspector that Dr. Griffith’s syce had seen the bag. I also said I would give a reward for its recovery as the contents were of great value to me. The Inspector Mr Babu Khan asked me if I would appear in court when required, to which I answered that certainly I should as soon as necessary. He drove away in the same carriage, leaving me under the impression that ere long the matter would be enquired into and settled and up to the present date I have heard nothing further! Nor shall, I fancy, till I can get out and enquire myself regarding all that has been done.
Now, Mr Editor, I would ask you, the public and the authorities whether the Police deserve credit or not for all the activity, energy and sharpness displayed by them in the case and also decide whether as a stranger and sick man coming into this place I have been fairly treated and allowed my dues, also whether carriage drivers and others should not be in some way or other be made to feel that behaviour of this kind will not be permitted by the authorities?
Apologising for a long story taking up your time, I subscribe myself, Yours etc. E.P. Wrixon.
Rangoon General Hospital
Sir, In your issue of the 3rd instant under heading Local, I notice an account regarding the loss of my courier bag with contents, which does not exactly describe the case as it should, hence I feel myself compelled to send you a correct and detailed version of the affair, which I trust you will insert in your paper on an early date.
Illness and my being in hospital prevented earlier action being taken by me in giving the matter publicity (as also a desire to allow the Police time to act in the matter) and bringing it to the notice of the authorities, as I should have done, under different and more fortunate circumstances, so as to arm new comers and travellers against similar occurrences and let them know what they may expect in Rangoon if they fancy that honesty and security are prevalent to [the] same extent as in other parts of British India, also to give them a fair idea of the activity, zeal and energy displayed by the Police in such cases. You, Mr Editor, the public and authorities will no doubt, praise or censure as may be justly due to the serving parties.
On Saturday morning, the 3rd November, I engaged 2nd class Hackney carriage no. 445 and put in my portmantean, bedding, sola hat and courier bag containing my certificates, letters, papers etc. and after paying cooly and the driver of the carriage the one rupee agreed upon, ordered him to drive me to the Rangoon General Hospital; instead of obeying orders he drove all over the place for an hour or more and then pulled up before a Hotel! I took advantage of this and enquired of a gentleman the distance to the hospital, he very kindly offered to accompany and show me the place; on our arrival at it we both went in and saw the Doctor in charge, I stated my case and desired admittance; was asked to wait as the Doctor was otherwise engaged. The Steward (Mr Graham) showed me into a Surgical Ward and said he would see to all my traps being removed into the Store room safely, I thanked him and waited as requested. By this time I was fairly exhausted and fell asleep.
On Sunday morning I was ordered up to Ward no. 1; previous to coming up, I went into the store room to see the Steward, Mr Graham and my things, found my courier bag and contents missing and was informed that no courier bag had been taken out of the carriage. I complained, and regarding its loss requested the Steward to do all he could towards its recovery. Was told to report loss to the Police, which I did on 5th November giving full particulars; Mr Olive D.S.P., a few days after called and took down the name of the gentleman who accompanied me. Subsequently I wrote twice to enquire if it has been recovered or not, and exactly ten days after Police Inspector Baby Khan came up in carriage no. 445 with same driver whom I had on the 3rd.
On hearing the driver state that he made no courier bag over I at once charged him with theft, stating names of witnesses etc. and Mr Graham, the Rangoon General Hospital Steward also informed the Inspector that Dr. Griffith’s syce had seen the bag. I also said I would give a reward for its recovery as the contents were of great value to me. The Inspector Mr Babu Khan asked me if I would appear in court when required, to which I answered that certainly I should as soon as necessary. He drove away in the same carriage, leaving me under the impression that ere long the matter would be enquired into and settled and up to the present date I have heard nothing further! Nor shall, I fancy, till I can get out and enquire myself regarding all that has been done.
Now, Mr Editor, I would ask you, the public and the authorities whether the Police deserve credit or not for all the activity, energy and sharpness displayed by them in the case and also decide whether as a stranger and sick man coming into this place I have been fairly treated and allowed my dues, also whether carriage drivers and others should not be in some way or other be made to feel that behaviour of this kind will not be permitted by the authorities?
Apologising for a long story taking up your time, I subscribe myself, Yours etc. E.P. Wrixon.
Methodist Girls’ School
The sixth Annual Exhibition of the Methodist Girls’ School was held on Tuesday evening, in the schoolroom in Lewis St. before an audience that filled and overflowed the room. Every item in the programme was well rendered and it was really wonderful to see with what self-possession the youngest portion of the performers faced the big crowd that has assembled to hear them recite and sing. Both boys and girls recited clearly with good emphasis and expression ... There was only one solo in the programme and it was well sung by Miss Daisy Stacey, whose voice is a particularly sweet one. ... Programme:
The sixth Annual Exhibition of the Methodist Girls’ School was held on Tuesday evening, in the schoolroom in Lewis St. before an audience that filled and overflowed the room. Every item in the programme was well rendered and it was really wonderful to see with what self-possession the youngest portion of the performers faced the big crowd that has assembled to hear them recite and sing. Both boys and girls recited clearly with good emphasis and expression ... There was only one solo in the programme and it was well sung by Miss Daisy Stacey, whose voice is a particularly sweet one. ... Programme:
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Chorus – Whole School
Instrumental Duet – Kitty and Lilly Broadfoot Recitation – Charles Illingworth Recitation – Stella Broadfoot Quartette – Grace and Minnie Pascal, Bertha Rundle and Maud Hamilton Recitation – Fred Rees Essay (History of the School) – Lydia Anderson Recitation – Ruby Temple |
Instrumental Trio – Alice Moss, Alice Hamilton and Mary Bald
Solo – Miss Daisy Stacey Recitation – Nellie Ripley Instrumental Solo – Mary Stuart Recitation – Charlotte Illingworth Recitation – Harry Rundle and John Short Recitation – Sasson Cohen Song – Mr E. Ault |
Thayetmyo News
A Burma Police Sergeant and four Military Policemen, while on their march to Mindoon in charge of ammunition and other stores (for the supply of various police guards inland) were attacked by fifty dacoits on the 6th instant. The Sergeant presuming on the non-probability of meeting dacoits, laid aside his rifle in one of the carts accompanying them and rose leisurely in advance of his comrades, when he received a shot in the left breast from the sudden fire of the dacoits and died almost immediately; likewise another policeman, who was walking alongside of the Sergeant, was shot in the chest and was picked of his rifle and belt. The other three, rumour says, engaged with this unproportionate band of 50 dacoits, were fighting under cover for nearly an hour, ending in the slight wounding of one policeman and the indiscriminate retreat of the dacoits. The loss of the outlaw’s side, I hear, was 15 killed and 10 wounded. An escort, stronger in number than the last one, left Thayetmyo with the same stores on the 9th morning for Yeagansing.
Mr Swann, the General Manager of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company arrived here the other day according to programme and proceeded upwards the following day. This gentleman is travelling all the way from Rangoon by steamer inspecting the agencies on the Irrawaddy. 12th Dec.
A Burma Police Sergeant and four Military Policemen, while on their march to Mindoon in charge of ammunition and other stores (for the supply of various police guards inland) were attacked by fifty dacoits on the 6th instant. The Sergeant presuming on the non-probability of meeting dacoits, laid aside his rifle in one of the carts accompanying them and rose leisurely in advance of his comrades, when he received a shot in the left breast from the sudden fire of the dacoits and died almost immediately; likewise another policeman, who was walking alongside of the Sergeant, was shot in the chest and was picked of his rifle and belt. The other three, rumour says, engaged with this unproportionate band of 50 dacoits, were fighting under cover for nearly an hour, ending in the slight wounding of one policeman and the indiscriminate retreat of the dacoits. The loss of the outlaw’s side, I hear, was 15 killed and 10 wounded. An escort, stronger in number than the last one, left Thayetmyo with the same stores on the 9th morning for Yeagansing.
Mr Swann, the General Manager of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company arrived here the other day according to programme and proceeded upwards the following day. This gentleman is travelling all the way from Rangoon by steamer inspecting the agencies on the Irrawaddy. 12th Dec.
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Mr Ernest
Rumour Mr Ernest, the Watchmaker in Messrs. A. Minck & Co., who has to undergo amputation of his right leg the other day is progressing favourably, we give the matter publicity merely to correct a rumour that was circulated in town about some blundering having taken place in the operation, which we have found, on making enquires, is entirely without foundation. |
Refreshment Rooms
Travellers by the Burma State Railway will now have no reason to complain of want of refreshments at the principal stations along the line as the whole management has been given over to that pushing firm of Arthur Barnes & Co., than whom no better could be got, and the public may be sure that their interests in this respect will not suffer in such hands and that quantity and quality as well as courtesy and cleanliness will be conspicuous in their arrangements to supply the hungry with food while travelling on the Burma State railway. |
Methodist Episcopal Sunday School
On Wednesday the Methodist Episcopal Sunday School had their Picnic at the Royal Lakes. A cool breeze blowing from off the water made the day a very enjoyable one for the large number of friends and relations of the scholars who had received invitations.
In the afternoon games took place in which the successful competitors received prizes which had been kindly given by Mr Shaw.
The first event, a 100 yards race for girls under 12 was won by Miss E. Villa, Miss E. Nisbett being second; A. George and J. Davies ran first and second for the boys’ 100 yards (under twelve);
the 200 yards, for those over twelve, was secured by C. Illingworth with J. Court second; Miss Stacey won the female teachers egg and spoon race; the potato race, for ladies (picking up potatoes and putting them in a bucket) was secured by Mrs Nisbett;
the sack race for all comers by J. Court, C. Illingworth second, the egg race for girls over 12, by Miss L. Anderson, Miss C. Illingworth second;
the Male teachers potato race by Mr Long and the last event, the three-legged race, was landed by E. White, and J. Court, second W. Nesbitt,(sic) W. Ripeley. (sic)
The large party left the park shortly after 5.30 everybody from the very little ones upwards having spent a thoroughly pleasant day.
On Wednesday the Methodist Episcopal Sunday School had their Picnic at the Royal Lakes. A cool breeze blowing from off the water made the day a very enjoyable one for the large number of friends and relations of the scholars who had received invitations.
In the afternoon games took place in which the successful competitors received prizes which had been kindly given by Mr Shaw.
The first event, a 100 yards race for girls under 12 was won by Miss E. Villa, Miss E. Nisbett being second; A. George and J. Davies ran first and second for the boys’ 100 yards (under twelve);
the 200 yards, for those over twelve, was secured by C. Illingworth with J. Court second; Miss Stacey won the female teachers egg and spoon race; the potato race, for ladies (picking up potatoes and putting them in a bucket) was secured by Mrs Nisbett;
the sack race for all comers by J. Court, C. Illingworth second, the egg race for girls over 12, by Miss L. Anderson, Miss C. Illingworth second;
the Male teachers potato race by Mr Long and the last event, the three-legged race, was landed by E. White, and J. Court, second W. Nesbitt,(sic) W. Ripeley. (sic)
The large party left the park shortly after 5.30 everybody from the very little ones upwards having spent a thoroughly pleasant day.
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Methodist Episcopal Church
On Thursday evening the member of the Methodist Episcopal Church met in Fraser Street to hear their Pastor’s annual report on the work of the past year and the financial state of the many different institutions for the benefit of the poor and needy with which this church is connected. Mr Long said that he had much pleasure in submitting his fourth annual report and more so as he could report progress in every department. The congregation of the church had increased and the trustees had to consider seriously the question of larger accommodation. Last year the members numbered 107, this year 130, in spite of losing 28 from death and other causes. ... A Ragged Sunday School, where the children were given buns and coffee, a Sabbath School in Barracks attended by 38 adults and children had been organised by Mr Hailstone and another school of the same kind had been started at Insein. The finances of the Seamen’s Mission were not in a satisfactory condition, ... and was only kept going by aid of grants kindly made by the Port Commissioner’s. A new building capable of housing 14 people had been erected, which may prove a financial aid. ... He congratulated Miss Wisner on the ay in which the girls school was conducted and made a highly prosperous statement of funds of the institution. The orphanage was not so financially prosperous and there was a deficit of Rs. 849, while the average they were able to allow for the monthly expenses for each girl was too low, being only Rs. 10/4 Mr Long concluded by thanking the members of the church for the loyal and generous way in which they, as well as many of together denominations, had supported him in the past year. Mr Ault then moved the adoption of the report and was seconded by Mr Mould. The Treasurers report was then read, showing a satisfactory state of the funds in nearly every department. Mr Shaw moved its adoption and was seconded by Mr Cowie. The choir sang three selected pieces during the interval in a manner which reflected great credit on Mr Ault, who had evidently taken great pains with them and should feel repaid for his trouble. |
Bassein Elections
The result of the voting for the Municipal Elections at Bassein was very favourable indeed, 83 out of the 101 qualified voters of the European community voted, electing Messrs. W.W.G. Beatson, H. McDonald and C. D’Attaides as their representatives; the unsuccessful candidates being Messrs. A. Murphy and I. Daniell. For the Burmese community the voting was not so good as only 659 out of 1528 qualified voters went to the poll, electing Maung Seik, Moung Lu, J. Shway Nyo, Maung Thet Hnin and U. Kyin U as their representatives. For the Mussulmans 36 out of 257 qualified voters voted, electing Mahomed Dat. For the Hindoos 107 out of 140 qualified voters voted, electing Rampersad. For the Chinese Maung Hpo was elected unopposed, and for the Karens the Rev’d. Myat San Po Kwe was elected without opposition. Upper Burma The following telegrams were received yesterday morning from Upper Burma: “Sagaing:- Mr Mayne, D.S.P., accompanied by Head Constable Maung Bah and a party of Military Police, encountered a detachment of Myo U’s gang killing six (including three minor Bohs) and capturing Boh Sowbywa, one dacoit, five guns, five dahs and some ammunition.” Postings The services of the Rev’d. G.A. Ford are placed at the disposal of the Chief Commissioner of Burma. The services of Mr T.J.M. Metcalfe, Extra Asst. Superintendent, 2nd grade, Port Blair and Nicobars, are temporarily placed at the disposal of the Chief Commissioner of Burma. Accident At midday on Sunday a rather serious accident happened to a Mr Fa—ic and another Eurasian; from what we hear it appears that both were driving a rather restless pony, when nearly opposite Watson & Summers, the pony bolted capsizing and smashing the trap. |
Taugdwingyi
3rd Dec.
The weather is nice and cool here now and after the heat of the past month it is quite refreshing. There is little or no dacoity but cattle lifting goes on occasionally though with less regularity than heretofore.
Mr Ingle, one of the new Asst. Dist. Superintendents of Police, appointed recently, has been posted to Natmauk sub-divn. He was there as an Inspector and his return as Asst. Dist. Superintendent of Police has been gladly welcomed by the people with whom he made himself deservedly popular.
The D.C., B.C., D.S.P. and E.A.C., have been in the interior the whole month getting things into shape, consequent upon the consolidation of Magwe and Taungdwingyi. While admitting the wisdom of the combination, there are many who will regret that Taungdwingyi as a district, has passed away for ever. The associations connected with our old District are many, pleasant and otherwise and we leave a tear on its grave for with the loss of its name old memories go too.
The crops are not as good as was expected and this means distress later on, if not trouble.
The people are becoming more loyal and furnish information more readily than in days gone by. Several cases of resisting dacoity have occurred within the past month and this speaks well for a speedy pacification.
3rd Dec.
The weather is nice and cool here now and after the heat of the past month it is quite refreshing. There is little or no dacoity but cattle lifting goes on occasionally though with less regularity than heretofore.
Mr Ingle, one of the new Asst. Dist. Superintendents of Police, appointed recently, has been posted to Natmauk sub-divn. He was there as an Inspector and his return as Asst. Dist. Superintendent of Police has been gladly welcomed by the people with whom he made himself deservedly popular.
The D.C., B.C., D.S.P. and E.A.C., have been in the interior the whole month getting things into shape, consequent upon the consolidation of Magwe and Taungdwingyi. While admitting the wisdom of the combination, there are many who will regret that Taungdwingyi as a district, has passed away for ever. The associations connected with our old District are many, pleasant and otherwise and we leave a tear on its grave for with the loss of its name old memories go too.
The crops are not as good as was expected and this means distress later on, if not trouble.
The people are becoming more loyal and furnish information more readily than in days gone by. Several cases of resisting dacoity have occurred within the past month and this speaks well for a speedy pacification.
To the Editor of the Pioneer
The State of Bhamo
Sir, As one who has lived in Bhamo for some time and therefore takes a lively interest in local affairs, I have read your Bhamo correspondent’s letter of 23rd August, published in your issue of 12th Sept., with mingled feelings of surprise and regret. I say surprise because some of the statements contained in the letter are astonishing, and I add regret because they are untrue. Your correspondent has done a real service by bringing to notice the action of the Chinese Government in the matter of the trans-frontier trade in salt. His remarks on this subject are worthy of very serious consideration. In matters of this kind your correspondent appears to be quite at home, but when he wanders into questions other than those immediately concerning the Chinese community generally, and the Chinese Christians in particular, he is apt to get astray or become the victim of people who take a malicious delight in pulling their neighbour’s leg. Your correspondent states: “Murders occur every now and again and the offender generally seems to escape.” Although I have no particular affection for the people here, I think in common justice, for we must give even the Devil his due sometimes, that it should be stated that this is a gross libel on the natives. Your correspondent shields himself behind generalities. Let a plain tale put him down.
The only murders that have taken place here during the past seventeen months are - one - i.e. on the 13th June 1887 a Chinaman in a bazaar by name Yin Shin Shin, murdered his sister-in-law by name Mah Mui Byu. He was tried and sentenced to death on the 16th June 1887. On appeal his sentence was commuted to transportation for life. Your correspondent’s sneer at the local police may or may not be deserved but taken with his request for trained detectives from India it is not a little amusing. Not a very long time ago your correspondent was crying out against the frightful tax on the pockets of the people the cost of the police involved. He now suggests that the frightful tac be increased. In conclusion let me offer your correspondent a word of advice. If he will be a little more careful as to his facts and a little less anxious to be sensational, he will carry grater weigh with the Government and will be infinitely more respected by a deserving and critical public that admires the true missionary but abhors cant. H.W.M.
The State of Bhamo
Sir, As one who has lived in Bhamo for some time and therefore takes a lively interest in local affairs, I have read your Bhamo correspondent’s letter of 23rd August, published in your issue of 12th Sept., with mingled feelings of surprise and regret. I say surprise because some of the statements contained in the letter are astonishing, and I add regret because they are untrue. Your correspondent has done a real service by bringing to notice the action of the Chinese Government in the matter of the trans-frontier trade in salt. His remarks on this subject are worthy of very serious consideration. In matters of this kind your correspondent appears to be quite at home, but when he wanders into questions other than those immediately concerning the Chinese community generally, and the Chinese Christians in particular, he is apt to get astray or become the victim of people who take a malicious delight in pulling their neighbour’s leg. Your correspondent states: “Murders occur every now and again and the offender generally seems to escape.” Although I have no particular affection for the people here, I think in common justice, for we must give even the Devil his due sometimes, that it should be stated that this is a gross libel on the natives. Your correspondent shields himself behind generalities. Let a plain tale put him down.
The only murders that have taken place here during the past seventeen months are - one - i.e. on the 13th June 1887 a Chinaman in a bazaar by name Yin Shin Shin, murdered his sister-in-law by name Mah Mui Byu. He was tried and sentenced to death on the 16th June 1887. On appeal his sentence was commuted to transportation for life. Your correspondent’s sneer at the local police may or may not be deserved but taken with his request for trained detectives from India it is not a little amusing. Not a very long time ago your correspondent was crying out against the frightful tax on the pockets of the people the cost of the police involved. He now suggests that the frightful tac be increased. In conclusion let me offer your correspondent a word of advice. If he will be a little more careful as to his facts and a little less anxious to be sensational, he will carry grater weigh with the Government and will be infinitely more respected by a deserving and critical public that admires the true missionary but abhors cant. H.W.M.
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Dinner
We are informed that Mr O.D. Clark, Engineer to the Municipality, intends to give a dinner at Christmas to Messrs. Shone and Ault’s employees, as well as those belonging to the Municipality at the Khokhine Lodge. Accident We regret to hear that Mr W. Mutter, an Engineer in the service of Messrs. Bulloch Bros., Poozoodoung, met with a serious accident on Saturday. It appears that while attending to duties in connection with the engine in the workshop he accidentally slipped and was unfortunately precipitated into a barrel of boiling water, the consequence being that he received nasty injuries to his right foot. Mr Mutter is under the treatment of Dr. Johnstone and is progressing favourably. |
Telegrams
Truth and the Flotilla Mr Labouchere in Truth says with reference to the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company and the Times correspondent at Rangoon: “I hear that an opposition Steamboat Company is at last being started on the Irrawaddy. This would have been done many months ago but for the measures having been taken by nobbling the press to prevent the bitter cry of the population between Mandalay and Rangoon being heard in this country. To show the way the journalistic oracle has been worked, I may mention that one paper in Rangoon was independent enough to take up the local outcry against the Flotilla Company. This was answered by the withdrawal of the Company’s advertisements and the refusal of all information reporting the running of mailboats.” Bombay 18th Dec. |
Editorial
“Truth” and the Flotilla
With reference to the telegram from our Bombay correspondent published in another part of this issue, we think it proves pretty conclusively how foolish Government action has been ever since the annexation of Upper Burma was decided on, with reference to the Irrawaddy Flotilla. Had they made known the amount of their probable requirements for freight n this river in 1887, we should long ere this have either had opposition on the Irrawaddy or have had rates reduced from 30 to 50 per cent, on what the Government have been paying since.
Even now, this should be done, for though in probably three or four months the State Railway between Rangoon and Mandalay will be open to passenger traffic, unless the Government have either their own steamers to link their railway termini and stations on the river to which their railway does not run, the Irrawaddy Flotilla will be able, s they did last month, to charge what they like for goods and passengers between such stations and will then be able to handicap railway conveyed goods and passengers in a very unpleasant fashion.
If tenders were called for the conveyance of railway conveyed goods and passengers between Mandalay and Prome and other stations such as Thayetmyo, Minbu, Pokokoo, (sic) Myingyan, Bhamo etc. this would be impossible and the State would then recap, as it is impossible they will reap now, the full benefit of their Mandalay extension line. It is difficult to conceive how a Government could have been so short sighted as ours has been with reference to the traffic on the Irrawaddy. They have, by playing into the hands of the monopolists, increased their own costs of administration by lakhs of rupees annually. They have also hampered the trade of the country by supporting the highest rate of freight and passenger money. If there had been other steamers plying on the river, or even if they had called for tenders, the present rates could never by any possibility have been maintained.
Government action, since annexation, in this matter would lead people to believe that the Flotilla Company was in some way mixed up with the Government and that Government had some interest in preventing, or discouraging other steamers from plying on the Irrawaddy and wished to keep up high fares and freights. We pointed this out a year ago and doubtless when Rs. 5000 was asked the other day in the Rangoon office for the charter of the Ava, for a few hours work between Mingyan, Salin and Pokokoo, and Government troops were refused a passage on a half empty steamer, the Pekin, in order to compel the Government to charter the Ava, the truth of what we had written must have forced itself on the attention of the Chief Commissioner and the Military authorities in Upper Burma.
The incident, at the end of our Bombay correspondent’s telegram, is not, we think, quite correct. We believe the withdrawal of the Flotilla advertisements from this paper was intended as a punishment for having criticised the management of the Rangoon office. It has had an effect, doubtless, quite different to what was intended. The public came to our assistance in a manner that made the withdrawal of the Flotilla advertisements or patronage, unfelt. We are receiving now, for the space previously occupied by the Flotilla notices, Rs. 10 per inch, or just twice the rate which they paid. Even in Rangoon people can appreciate having at least one independent newspaper and where we offended one large firm we made at least 50 additional friends and supporters. Our object all along has been a public one viz to point out the advantages of competition to the trade and administration of Burma and how the action of the Government has been against its own interest and the interests of the people, causing unnecessary expense and unwarrantable waste of public money.
“Truth” and the Flotilla
With reference to the telegram from our Bombay correspondent published in another part of this issue, we think it proves pretty conclusively how foolish Government action has been ever since the annexation of Upper Burma was decided on, with reference to the Irrawaddy Flotilla. Had they made known the amount of their probable requirements for freight n this river in 1887, we should long ere this have either had opposition on the Irrawaddy or have had rates reduced from 30 to 50 per cent, on what the Government have been paying since.
Even now, this should be done, for though in probably three or four months the State Railway between Rangoon and Mandalay will be open to passenger traffic, unless the Government have either their own steamers to link their railway termini and stations on the river to which their railway does not run, the Irrawaddy Flotilla will be able, s they did last month, to charge what they like for goods and passengers between such stations and will then be able to handicap railway conveyed goods and passengers in a very unpleasant fashion.
If tenders were called for the conveyance of railway conveyed goods and passengers between Mandalay and Prome and other stations such as Thayetmyo, Minbu, Pokokoo, (sic) Myingyan, Bhamo etc. this would be impossible and the State would then recap, as it is impossible they will reap now, the full benefit of their Mandalay extension line. It is difficult to conceive how a Government could have been so short sighted as ours has been with reference to the traffic on the Irrawaddy. They have, by playing into the hands of the monopolists, increased their own costs of administration by lakhs of rupees annually. They have also hampered the trade of the country by supporting the highest rate of freight and passenger money. If there had been other steamers plying on the river, or even if they had called for tenders, the present rates could never by any possibility have been maintained.
Government action, since annexation, in this matter would lead people to believe that the Flotilla Company was in some way mixed up with the Government and that Government had some interest in preventing, or discouraging other steamers from plying on the Irrawaddy and wished to keep up high fares and freights. We pointed this out a year ago and doubtless when Rs. 5000 was asked the other day in the Rangoon office for the charter of the Ava, for a few hours work between Mingyan, Salin and Pokokoo, and Government troops were refused a passage on a half empty steamer, the Pekin, in order to compel the Government to charter the Ava, the truth of what we had written must have forced itself on the attention of the Chief Commissioner and the Military authorities in Upper Burma.
The incident, at the end of our Bombay correspondent’s telegram, is not, we think, quite correct. We believe the withdrawal of the Flotilla advertisements from this paper was intended as a punishment for having criticised the management of the Rangoon office. It has had an effect, doubtless, quite different to what was intended. The public came to our assistance in a manner that made the withdrawal of the Flotilla advertisements or patronage, unfelt. We are receiving now, for the space previously occupied by the Flotilla notices, Rs. 10 per inch, or just twice the rate which they paid. Even in Rangoon people can appreciate having at least one independent newspaper and where we offended one large firm we made at least 50 additional friends and supporters. Our object all along has been a public one viz to point out the advantages of competition to the trade and administration of Burma and how the action of the Government has been against its own interest and the interests of the people, causing unnecessary expense and unwarrantable waste of public money.
Editorial
The Trans-Salween States
Mr J.G. Scott, the able Asst. Superintendent of the Shan States has visited the Trans-Salween States of Maingta, Maingpan, Maingtun and Maingsut, which have recently been placed under the administration of the Sawbwa of Maingpan. The Sawbwa, we hear, accompanied Mr Scott assumed charge of the four states without opposition. These States lie on the borders of the Siamese province of Chizgmai or Zimmay, as it is sometimes called, and contain much valuable Forest land – the arrangement by which these four States are attached by the Sawbwa of Miangpan, is merely a return to the former state of affairs that existed in the Burmese regime and was for a time disturbed during the period of anarchy in the Shan Sates which succeeded the annexation of Upper Burma. The peaceable assumption by the Swabwa of Maingpan, a British feudatory, is of some importance at the present time and should have a good effect on the turbulent Eastern Red Karens, against whom it has been found necessary to send an expedition. We may hope that Sawlapaw will very soon see that his true interest lies in being also a loyal British feudatory, as the Government has no wish to annex his territory, although they can hardly allow it to continue to be a species of Alsatia on the borders of their dominions, the refuge for all the outlaws and ruffians from our own province and the neighbouring Shan States.
The Trans-Salween States
Mr J.G. Scott, the able Asst. Superintendent of the Shan States has visited the Trans-Salween States of Maingta, Maingpan, Maingtun and Maingsut, which have recently been placed under the administration of the Sawbwa of Maingpan. The Sawbwa, we hear, accompanied Mr Scott assumed charge of the four states without opposition. These States lie on the borders of the Siamese province of Chizgmai or Zimmay, as it is sometimes called, and contain much valuable Forest land – the arrangement by which these four States are attached by the Sawbwa of Miangpan, is merely a return to the former state of affairs that existed in the Burmese regime and was for a time disturbed during the period of anarchy in the Shan Sates which succeeded the annexation of Upper Burma. The peaceable assumption by the Swabwa of Maingpan, a British feudatory, is of some importance at the present time and should have a good effect on the turbulent Eastern Red Karens, against whom it has been found necessary to send an expedition. We may hope that Sawlapaw will very soon see that his true interest lies in being also a loyal British feudatory, as the Government has no wish to annex his territory, although they can hardly allow it to continue to be a species of Alsatia on the borders of their dominions, the refuge for all the outlaws and ruffians from our own province and the neighbouring Shan States.
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Pegu
The Deputy Commissioner of Pegu, having reported through the Commissioner of Pegu, that there has been considerable delay in passing final orders in certain Civil cases in the Court of the Extra Asst. Commissioner of Pegu, Mr Warde-Jones was called upon for explanation regarding the same. After reading the explanation the officiating Judicial Commissioner considered the explanation submitted was not satisfactory and directed that Mr Warde-Jones be warned to avoid similar delays in future. Mr MacFarlane Mr P. MacFarlane, Watchmaker of Merchant Street, was charged before the Asst. Magistrate yesterday with being drink and disorderly and assaulting people at a pooay in Botataung on Monday night. Police Constable no. 532 said that he arrested the accused in consequence of some Burmans, among whom was Mg Tsan Daw, complaining that he had assaulted them. He had to whistle for assistance to arrest him and the accused was taken in his own tum-tum to the Lock-up. The tum-tum was driven by a friend of the accused. Two other constables gave corroborative evidence but Moung Tsan Daw sated that he had not seen the accused at all on Monday night and denied that the accused had assaulted him as stated by the constable. The case was adjourned until today for the hearing of the witness for the defence. Telegrams Taungdwingyi Mr Hill and the Myook of Myothit have captured Nga Mung alias Sayagale, who has been going about with different gangs as Kyimindine and Mingun Mintha for the last three years and for whose capture Rs. 500 is proclaimed at Myede. He was attested in Gwaigyo village and was with Uyo Mya Lugalegyi and Shwe Aung amalgamated gang. 21st Dec. Lottery Among the many lotteries to be opened on Christmas Eve, that of Messrs. Basch & Co’s., opposite Evershed’s Hotel, is a beautiful collection of prizes of superior quality, which no doubt accounts for the number of tickets that have already been disposed of. Though only a new firm, they seem to have already gained a reputation for the quality of goods which they supply and we feel sure that all who patronise their lottery, which they need not do until they have inspected the prizes which are now on view, will be satisfied that they will get the value for their money. |
Indian Engineering
The road from the Nichuguard to Kohima is precipitous in many places and carts and elephants cannot pass along it, though horses can. But a good road is in course of construction for which one and a half lakhs of rupees has been sanctioned. This cart road will pass through Kohima to Manipore and then probably to Burma. One lakh has been sanctioned for a road from Kohima to Mhow, a station between Kohima and Manipore. A road and telegraph line now pass from Kohima to Sindwing in Burma, through Manipore. This is the direct and shortest way from Assam to Burma. Postings Mr C.E. Gladstone, we hear, goes to the Pokoko district on being relieved next week by Mr Tucker, who recently went on short leave – It is probable that Capt. Eyre will then be posted to do duty with the Chin Frontier Column, to assist Major Raikes, C.I.S. Mr A.T.A. Shaw, probably goes to Kyaukyu to relieve Mr Hewetson who returns to Madras at his own request. S.P.H. Dyson, Asst. Commissioner, who returned from leave last Wednesday, is likely to be posted to Yemethin. Mr A.L. Hough, Asst. Commissioner, who was lately officiating at Pegu for Mr Irwin during that officer’s short leave to the Straits, goes to Ngathaingyoung, and will have charge of the Henzada district when Major Butler, Deputy Commissioner, takes leave next month. Monywa Jail The satisfactory manner in which the Monywa Jail is getting on at present reflects no small amount of credit on Mr John Fischer, the acting Civil Surgeon, who is appointed in charge of it. The average daily inmates of this jail is calculated to be about 120 and if there is a likelihood of the number of inmates increasing owing to the closing of certain jails, then in all probability sanction will be applied for from the Local Government to increase the accommodation. From the latest advices received from Monywa, the Inspector-General of Prisons has every reason to be satisfied with the progress made in goal (sic) discipline under Mr Fischer at Monywa. Telegrams - The First Burman on the Legislative Council Moung Ohn, C.I.E., retired Judge of the Small Cause Court of Rangoon has been appointed to be an Additional Member of the Supreme Legislative Council. Calcutta 22nd Dec. |
Railway News
The return of promotions and reversions made by the Director General of Railways is conspicuous by its lateness. The official changes affect the upper subordinate establishment of the Railway Branch generally, but the following is a list of the officers employed on the Toungoo-Mandalay Extension of the Burma State Railway, whose appointments have been affected:
Conductor J. Hart, who was temporarily promoted to the rank of sub-Engineer, 3rd grade, has again reverted to his former appointment of Supervisor, 1st grade.
Sergt. F. Hand, formerly Overseer, 1st grade, is likely to be soon made permanent in his new appointment as Supervisor, 2nd grade, which he holds sub-pro-tem since 1st Jan. last.
H.W. Bryning, Overseer, 2nd grade, but holding the temporary rank of Overseer 1st grade, for the past eleven months, will in all probability, be also confirmed in this acting appointment.
J.B. Welsh has acted twice successively in a grade above his ordinarily recognised rank and has reverted back again each time to his former grade. He acted as Supervisor 1st grade, with effect from 1st Jan. 1888 till 8th Apr. 1888 and from 10th May of the same year he has had occasion again to act as Supervisor 1st grade, which temporary appointment he held till 24th June of the current year, when the reversion to his former duties were ordered.
T.W. Daly and Mr R. Maher, the former a Supervisor 1st grade and latter an Overseer, 1st grade, sub-pro-tem, have been confirmed in their appointments as such.
J.C. Mayes, acted as Supervisor 1st grade, from 1st Jan. to 7th Mar. 1888, when he reverted to his former rank. Mr B.A. Maine, who was so long sub-pro-tem is made permanent in his appointment as Sub-Engineer, 2nd grade, from 1st Feb. last and Mr T. McReddie is appointed to the rank of Sub-Engineer, 3rd grade, with effect from 10th Sept. last.
The return of promotions and reversions made by the Director General of Railways is conspicuous by its lateness. The official changes affect the upper subordinate establishment of the Railway Branch generally, but the following is a list of the officers employed on the Toungoo-Mandalay Extension of the Burma State Railway, whose appointments have been affected:
Conductor J. Hart, who was temporarily promoted to the rank of sub-Engineer, 3rd grade, has again reverted to his former appointment of Supervisor, 1st grade.
Sergt. F. Hand, formerly Overseer, 1st grade, is likely to be soon made permanent in his new appointment as Supervisor, 2nd grade, which he holds sub-pro-tem since 1st Jan. last.
H.W. Bryning, Overseer, 2nd grade, but holding the temporary rank of Overseer 1st grade, for the past eleven months, will in all probability, be also confirmed in this acting appointment.
J.B. Welsh has acted twice successively in a grade above his ordinarily recognised rank and has reverted back again each time to his former grade. He acted as Supervisor 1st grade, with effect from 1st Jan. 1888 till 8th Apr. 1888 and from 10th May of the same year he has had occasion again to act as Supervisor 1st grade, which temporary appointment he held till 24th June of the current year, when the reversion to his former duties were ordered.
T.W. Daly and Mr R. Maher, the former a Supervisor 1st grade and latter an Overseer, 1st grade, sub-pro-tem, have been confirmed in their appointments as such.
J.C. Mayes, acted as Supervisor 1st grade, from 1st Jan. to 7th Mar. 1888, when he reverted to his former rank. Mr B.A. Maine, who was so long sub-pro-tem is made permanent in his appointment as Sub-Engineer, 2nd grade, from 1st Feb. last and Mr T. McReddie is appointed to the rank of Sub-Engineer, 3rd grade, with effect from 10th Sept. last.
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Notices
Examination A competitive examination will be held for the post of 2nd Revenue Clerk, English, in the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Tharrawaddy, at noon on Thur. 3rd Jan. 1889, under the rules for appointment to clerkship in Lower Burma, when two English apprentices will also be appointed. H.P. Todd Naylor, Offg. Deputy Commissioner, Tharrawaddy, 20th Dec. 1888. Posting The Custom House and Bonded Warehouse (Govt. and Licensed) will, for the Xmas and New Year holidays, be closed on the 25th and 26th instant and on the 1st and 2nd Jan. 1889. E. Darlington, Chief Collector of Customs, Burma. Holidays The Custom House and Bonded Warehouse (Govt. and Licensed) will, for the Xmas and New Year holidays, be closed on the 25th and 26th instant and on the 1st and 2nd Jan. 1889. [signed by] E. Darlington, Chief Collector of Customs, Burma. Christmas Dinner Fund Mr Selfe, who belongs to the firm of Messrs. Miller & Brittain, has kindly sent the handsome sum of Rs. 25 as his subscription towards the Ladies Christmas Dinner Fund. Xmas Dinner We are informed that a dinner will be given at 4 p.m. today to the little ones at the Industrial Home to which friends and subscribers are cordially invited. We hope the children will enjoy their treat, the credit of which is largely due to the energy and kindness of heart of Mrs T.C. Hill, who got up a subscription on their behalf and who has been indefatigable in the tedious work of collecting the necessary funds. Note We have been asked to mention that Mr J. Lowis is the successful competitor for the Piano which belonged to Ms La Fosse. |
Editorial
The Burma Member of Council We do not think the selection of Moung Ong, C.I.E., as Additional Member of the Supreme Legislative Council is altogether a happy one. The old gentleman has done good service in his day but he is now past work, and thought he will, no doubt, applicate the appointment and the enrolments attached to it, he is not likely to be found or much use in the Council. It is, we think rather premature as yet to have any Burman on it, but probably the two who are most fit for the post are the Kin Woon Mengyee and the Atwinwoon, two of the ex-ministers of King Theebaw. These two Burmese gentlemen have travelled in Europe and gained there considerable experience and knowledge of affairs whilst at the same time, they are probably more proficient Burman scholars than any to be found in Lower Burma. We believe most Burman gentlemen in Lower Burma would admit this, but perhaps it was not thought advisable to pass over men who have been British Subjects for half a century, for men who were Theebaw’s Subhects only the other day. Our Burmese fellow citizens are any rate should see in the elevation of Moung Ong, C.I.E., to the Supreme Council, the desire of their rulers to do all that is possible to get a knowledge of Burmese wants and aspirations at the seat of Government and although they ma not all be pleased with the selection made, or the prospect of its being of very much use, it is at any rate a compliment to loyal Burmans in this part of the world. Moung Ong, C.I.E., who is at present, we understand, in Moulmain (sic) with his son the Junior Asst. Magistrate, and who had intended retiring from public life when he went to Moulmain some months ago, should have an intimate knowledge of Burmese wants and desires. If he will but make them known in the Council he may yet do his fellow countrymen and the province some service in his old age. But it will be as well not to expect too much from our late venerable fellow citizen, for those who know him best say, if we do, we shall certainly be disappointed. |
Congratulations
We congratulate Mr John Tsaw Oo White, Asst. Chemical Examiner, Rangoon College, on his having successfully passed the M.A. examination, Calcutta University. Mr White is second on the list for the whole of India and is the first candidate from Burma who passed this examination.
We congratulate Mr John Tsaw Oo White, Asst. Chemical Examiner, Rangoon College, on his having successfully passed the M.A. examination, Calcutta University. Mr White is second on the list for the whole of India and is the first candidate from Burma who passed this examination.
Railway Police
We hear that a special Railway Police Force establishment, at an estimated cost of Rs. 50,000 per annum, will be entertained from the commencement of next official year. With a few active and intelligent men in such a force, no doubt, a stop will be put to a great deal of the theft of grain, which has yearly been taking place on the Prome line since the railway was opened, whilst the constant complaints of passengers by night trains, more especially those in the third class, of the theft of their belongings will also, it is to be hoped, diminish. It is not likely that any Railway Officer, however well organised, would be able to put an end to thefts n the line altogether, so long as passengers, especially Burmese, exhibit the most trusting confidence regarding their belongings to people in the same carriage with them who they never have seen before. Cases in which Chinese and Burmese passengers have been robbed of money whilst asleep, have constantly happened. Rather than pay freight for a few hundred of rupees, or carry I in notes, a man will put his money in a bag by his side and quietly go to sleep by the side of it. Such a temptation to an active thief is irresistible. He watches his opportunity, seizes the bag and jumps with it out of the train, going perhaps at the rate of 10 or 12 miles an [hour] into the darkness. He is seldom caught, but we are glad to hear there was last month one clever arrest of two receivers of stolen property at Prome, who were tried and convicted at Tharrawaddy by the active Deputy Commissioner there and sentenced to long terms of imprisonment and heavy fine. Since this and the confirmation of the findings and sentences by the Commissioner of Pegu on appeal, we have heard less of railway thefts which usually take place between Oakan and Zegong on the Prome line.
The Railway Police Force will, we hope, be successful in putting an end to a good deal of petty crime on the 500 miles of line which will soon be open to passenger traffic. With good officers they should be able to bring about greater care and discretion on the part of the native travelling public of their goods, which of itself, by diminishing opportunities and temptation will do much to lessen this description of crime.
We hear that a special Railway Police Force establishment, at an estimated cost of Rs. 50,000 per annum, will be entertained from the commencement of next official year. With a few active and intelligent men in such a force, no doubt, a stop will be put to a great deal of the theft of grain, which has yearly been taking place on the Prome line since the railway was opened, whilst the constant complaints of passengers by night trains, more especially those in the third class, of the theft of their belongings will also, it is to be hoped, diminish. It is not likely that any Railway Officer, however well organised, would be able to put an end to thefts n the line altogether, so long as passengers, especially Burmese, exhibit the most trusting confidence regarding their belongings to people in the same carriage with them who they never have seen before. Cases in which Chinese and Burmese passengers have been robbed of money whilst asleep, have constantly happened. Rather than pay freight for a few hundred of rupees, or carry I in notes, a man will put his money in a bag by his side and quietly go to sleep by the side of it. Such a temptation to an active thief is irresistible. He watches his opportunity, seizes the bag and jumps with it out of the train, going perhaps at the rate of 10 or 12 miles an [hour] into the darkness. He is seldom caught, but we are glad to hear there was last month one clever arrest of two receivers of stolen property at Prome, who were tried and convicted at Tharrawaddy by the active Deputy Commissioner there and sentenced to long terms of imprisonment and heavy fine. Since this and the confirmation of the findings and sentences by the Commissioner of Pegu on appeal, we have heard less of railway thefts which usually take place between Oakan and Zegong on the Prome line.
The Railway Police Force will, we hope, be successful in putting an end to a good deal of petty crime on the 500 miles of line which will soon be open to passenger traffic. With good officers they should be able to bring about greater care and discretion on the part of the native travelling public of their goods, which of itself, by diminishing opportunities and temptation will do much to lessen this description of crime.
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Tavoy News
Nothing but change in this part of the world. Our respected Deputy Commissioner has gone to Rangoon to the Secretariat they say. We wish him every success wherever he is stationed. His successor, Major Jenkins, has arrived. A batch of rebels and dacoits from Siam have arrived and I suppose will shortly meet their deserts. The notorious Bo Pagan is amongst them, also the poor boy he took with him. We had a narrow escape on the 28th Mar. last and if it had not been for the Volunteers, it is highly probable that Tavoy would have been sacked and burnt and most of the Europeans killed. We are hoping that the police head constable, who was said to be in league with this Pagan and other rebel leaders, and who, it is said, has made much out of them, may yet meet with his deserts. No money or trouble ought to be spared to get this man caught and hanged. There may be some pity for his dupes. For one in British pay, who knew better, money should be wasted. 21st Dec. Minbu News The Volunteers have been grievously disappointed and rightly so. The camp of exercise, as you are aware, was to have been held at Thayetmyo during the Christmas week and all our friends here looked eagerly forward for this little trip and where they would met many of their old acquaintances; the reason why the idea has been abolished, is unknown, but it is supposed to be due to financial difficulties, should such be the case, this difficulty could very easily have been overcome, as every Volunteer would only have been too delighted to subscribe. 23rd Dec. |
Mandalay News
18th Dec. On Friday the 14th the Volunteers had a Route March at 8 p.m.; starting from Headquarters down Merchant St. up B. Road, turned west Moat Road on the New Baptist School of Mrs Hencock, where she had a Tea Party with singing of Moody and Sankey’s songs, it being the opening ceremony of he new building. The Volunteers turned out fairly strong; 50 infantry and 20 mounted, headed by the Native Infantry Band, the Colonel was good enough to pay for the men’s tickets at one rupee a head. The return march commenced at 10.30 and the men were dismissed by 11.30. Next day, Saturday, we had another parade, a preparatory one, as on Monday we were to fall in with the Regulars, as Medals were to be presented; the turn-out was poor, the Commandant expressed his regret at the attendance and entreated those present that they would persuade their friends to turn out strong on Monday; he had painfully to remark that whenever a march was ordered and Volunteers knew of something being at the end in the way of eating and drinking, a good number turned out, but when no inducements are thrown out, there are invariably sluggards to eb found; however, he asked that his sentiments may be conveyed to the absent ones to turn out. At midnight all Mandalay were roused by the fire which took place opposite the Ruby Hotel and not far from the “Europe.” [Hotel] If it were not for the helping hands of those who were indulging at the Hotels, at the unreasonable hour, the disaster would have been great, as it was, nine houses were burnt in C Road ... |
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Mr Ernest?
A most peculiar and certainty strange occurrence was witnessed at the General Hospital on Monday evening when the hearse arrived with the coffin for the body of the late Mr Ernst (sic) about four o’clock, the hour appointed for the funeral. Great dissatisfaction was manifested at the appearance of the vehicle which was to convey the dead youth, it being of a most unsuitable and filthy description and in a short time it was turned away. After a while another hearse of a more prepossessing appearance arrived and when the coffin was laid in it, the funeral party started on their mournful procession, not however before a long interval had elapsed. Whoever was to blame for this, we cannot say, but it undoubtedly reflects little or no credit on those who had undertaken the carrying out of the arrangements. |
Mr Elliot, deceased
We have been asked to mention that the Baptist Sunday School Christmas Treat which, was to have been held this afternoon, will be postposed for one week on account of the death of Mr E. Elliot, one of the teachers. Irrawaddy Flotilla Co. An unsuccessful attempt to launch the S.S. China took place yesterday at the Dalla Dockyard. The vessel is one of the largest that has been built by the Flotilla Company, having a length of 310 feet and a beam of 16 feet, with 1500 horse power. The failure is attributed to the ground being soft near the edge and yielding to the weight of the vessel caused the ways to get off line. Another attempt will be made on Saturday. Mrs F.C. Kennedy in the presence of a few friends performed the christening ceremony. |
Mr Elliott, deceased
A sad fatality happened on the Pegu river on Xmas morning by which Mr Elliott of Messrs. Rowe & Co. lost his life. The deceased, accompanied with Mr White, one of the partners of the firm, left Rangoon early on Xmas morning on a shooting expedition up the Pegu river. Upon their return journey the accident happened. They had reached the riverside and Mr White had entered the boat. The deceased was in the act of handing his rifle to his friend when he missed his footing and stumbled. By the fall the butt of the rifle struck the gunwale of the boat causing it to explode and lodged its contents in the right breast of the decease, death was instantaneous; the body was subsequently handed to the police and conveyed to the mortuary of the hospital. A post mortem examination subsequently was held and a verdict of accidental death recorded.
The statement made by our contemporary that a loaded gun was being handed out to Mr Elliott by Mr White, with the muzzle pointed to him, is not correct, and has, we believe, given Mr White great pain.
Mr Elliott, who was 22 years of age, was a member of the American Baptist Church and a zealous Christian worker. His unassuming mien and the kindly interest he displayed in the spiritual welfare of those around him commanded the respect of all with whom he cam in contact. His loss is keenly felt by the Baptist community.
The obsequies took place yesterday afternoon in the presence of a large concourse of people. The body was conveyed to the Baptist Church, where a funeral service was conducted by Rev’d. Dr. Cushing before a crowded congregation. The coffin, literally covered with floral wreaths, was borne up the aisle of the building by Messrs. Rush and Stidson, Corpl. Rohanna and Privates Oliffe and Sharp of the Cheshire Regiment and placed upon a bier.
The Rev’d. Dr. Cushing, who was labouring under deep emotion, testified to the fidelity of the Christina life of the deceased. Mr Elliott had been a steadfast, honourable and true Christian and the Church had sustained a severe loss by his removal from their midst. He had been a brother indeed – their hearts were open to him at all times and his heart was always open to them. As Pastor of the deceased he (Dr. Cushing) could testify to the consistency of his Christian life and his unswerving service in the cause of Christ. As they mourned his loss, there were others in a far off land who would mourn with them but they had the blessed assurance of a glorious resurrection and example set by their departed brother throughout his life which would stimulate them to conform their lives so that they would meet him in the Home above.
The remains were then taken to their last resting place at the Baptist Cemetery; a large number of carriages containing the members of the Church following.
A sad fatality happened on the Pegu river on Xmas morning by which Mr Elliott of Messrs. Rowe & Co. lost his life. The deceased, accompanied with Mr White, one of the partners of the firm, left Rangoon early on Xmas morning on a shooting expedition up the Pegu river. Upon their return journey the accident happened. They had reached the riverside and Mr White had entered the boat. The deceased was in the act of handing his rifle to his friend when he missed his footing and stumbled. By the fall the butt of the rifle struck the gunwale of the boat causing it to explode and lodged its contents in the right breast of the decease, death was instantaneous; the body was subsequently handed to the police and conveyed to the mortuary of the hospital. A post mortem examination subsequently was held and a verdict of accidental death recorded.
The statement made by our contemporary that a loaded gun was being handed out to Mr Elliott by Mr White, with the muzzle pointed to him, is not correct, and has, we believe, given Mr White great pain.
Mr Elliott, who was 22 years of age, was a member of the American Baptist Church and a zealous Christian worker. His unassuming mien and the kindly interest he displayed in the spiritual welfare of those around him commanded the respect of all with whom he cam in contact. His loss is keenly felt by the Baptist community.
The obsequies took place yesterday afternoon in the presence of a large concourse of people. The body was conveyed to the Baptist Church, where a funeral service was conducted by Rev’d. Dr. Cushing before a crowded congregation. The coffin, literally covered with floral wreaths, was borne up the aisle of the building by Messrs. Rush and Stidson, Corpl. Rohanna and Privates Oliffe and Sharp of the Cheshire Regiment and placed upon a bier.
The Rev’d. Dr. Cushing, who was labouring under deep emotion, testified to the fidelity of the Christina life of the deceased. Mr Elliott had been a steadfast, honourable and true Christian and the Church had sustained a severe loss by his removal from their midst. He had been a brother indeed – their hearts were open to him at all times and his heart was always open to them. As Pastor of the deceased he (Dr. Cushing) could testify to the consistency of his Christian life and his unswerving service in the cause of Christ. As they mourned his loss, there were others in a far off land who would mourn with them but they had the blessed assurance of a glorious resurrection and example set by their departed brother throughout his life which would stimulate them to conform their lives so that they would meet him in the Home above.
The remains were then taken to their last resting place at the Baptist Cemetery; a large number of carriages containing the members of the Church following.
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Christmas Tide
This time honoured festival was celebrated with considerable eclat in Rangoon and the surrounding districts on Tuesday “Peace on Earth, Good will toward men” universally prevailed ... especially indeed was this the case with ladies of the Methodist Episcopal Church, who energetically formed themselves into a committee and entertained the hungry with a frugal repast in the hall of the Seamen’s Rest, A capital menu was provided and the guests, numbering over 100, heartily disposed of the good things placed before them. Several ladies and gentlemen attended to witness the dinner and among those who took part in the proceedings we noticed Rev’d. S.P. Long and Mrs Long, Mrs Illingsworth, Mr Hailstone, Mr and Mrs Manson, the Misses Wisner and Files and Mr Shaw ... The patients of at the hospital were not forgotten ... Lady Crosthwaite with her usual thoughtfulness for the sick, and the Girls Mission Band of the Methodist Church also sent cards suitably inscribed to the inmates; and the Steward, Mr Graham and Matron, Mrs Simons dispensed other season gifts. Industrial Home We must not forget to mention the Industrial Home, the children of which were provided with an excellent dinner as well as each one getting a present from Santa Claus. We are sure that Mrs Street, Mrs Hill and the other ladies who tried to make it a happy Christmas for the little orphans, would have felt amply repaid by seeing how delighted they were with their presents. We have heard that it is the opinion of some people that the Home should take in outside work, in order to make itself supporting, but when it is taken into consideration that the majority of the children are not more than six or seven years of age, and do their own cooking, washing and scrubbing etc. we do not see how this can be done, for the present at least. We went to the Home a few days ago and found it beautifully clean and neat and were pleased to see how healthy and happy the little ones looked, and the highest praise is due to Mrs Benemy, the lady in charge ,for the able manner in which the institution is conducted. It was pleasant to see the kind and motherly way she has with the little ones, all of whom are evidently very fond of her. Pilot Exams. On Monday, a Committee formed by Capt. Hanna, of the S.S. Irrawaddy, deep-sea Captain and Mr Warwick, Pilot, sat to examine into the qualifications of Mr T.H. Lightfoot for a third grade Pilot of the Rangoon River. We believe Mr Lightfoot passed a very creditable examination. |
Editorial
The Shan States We think the present satisfactory condition of the Shan States is largely due to the abilities of the two officers, Messrs. A.H. Hildebrand, C.I.E., ad J.G. Scott, chosen as Superintendent and Asst. Superintendent. Both are excellent Burmese scholars and were not, as so many of our officers in Upper Burma were at the first occupation of the country, at the mercy of interpreters. Mr Hildebrand had had considerable experience both as Police and Judicial officer and for some years before annexation kept the disorderly district of Tharrawaddy inf air order. Mr Scott was young and untried as a Government official until the annexation gave him the opportunity which has enabled him to show himself to be an able and judicious administrator. What he lacked in experience he made up for in common sense, knowledge of the world and a deep acquaintance with the Burmese language and character attained by but few. It is to the admirable selections made by the Local Government in its choice of British officials for the Shan States to which, we believe, a great deal of our present satisfactory relations with their people and chiefs may be attributed. We believe Mr Hildebrand and the Superintendent will shortly visit the five Trans-Salween States where his Assistant, Mr Scott has recently peacefully installed the Maingpan Sawbwa’s whose possessions they formerly were. After settling their administration, Mr Hildebrand will, probably, visit Kyaington to receive the submission of that State and of other Trans-Salween States formerly subject to Burma. The Northern Shan States have been placed under the Superintendence of Lt. H. Daly, who will also, after meeting the Chief Commissioner in Mandalay next month, make an extended tour from Bhamo through Nankan, Northern Theinnee to Lashio, where his headquarters will probably be established. It is with this party that the Rangoon Chamber of Commerce send a representative and it should largely extend our knowledge of the geographical and commercial facilities of these Shan States. That these peaceful expeditions should be possible, shows how generally satisfactory British relations with the Shans and their rulers are, and this, as we have previously said, is to a real extent due to the character of the officers representing their country at these remote outposts of our newly acquired territory. |
The Woontho Sawbwa
Although this potentate has kept his territory fairly in order and given us no cause of complaint against him recently, still he somewhat obstinately refuses to visit the Chief Commission or his representative in Mandalay. He professes to be fearful of treachery on the part of the British Officers! It is to be hoped these foolish ideas will have passed away before Sir Charles Crosthwaite holds his next Durbar in Mandalay. Several of the Shan Chiefs have received certificates recognising their status, confirming them in their appointments and assuring them of British protection in the event of their requiring it. The Woontho Sawbwa has been informed that until he shows his friendly disposition and loyalty by visiting the Chief Commissioner or his representative, it will not be possible for him to receive this acknowledgement of his position which, otherwise, the Chief Commissioner as representative of the Queen Empress, would be happy to bestow on him.
It is to be hoped the Woontho Sawbwa will, eventually, be freed from him unworthy suspicions of British Officers. Our treatment of the Theebaw Sawbwa and others, should have gone far to reassure him. He is, we believe, assisting in procuring carriage and supplies for the Moo Valley Railway Survey party and there is no reason, we think, to apprehend that he intends to be other than friendly to us, although, his distrust of our officers is certainly somewhat remarkable and has the aspect of unfriendliness, to say the least of it.
These Sawbwa’s, in many instances are as difficult to deal with a wayward children, but with patience and tact, Messrs. Hildebrand, C.I.E., and Scott have overcome all difficulties with those they have met to the east of Woontho territory; and we have no doubt that the Woontho Sawbwa, though he has hitherto proved more untractable than any other of the rulers of the Shan States, will eventually give way to the gentle pressure brought to bear on him and to circumstances which are so far beyond his control. He might have added considerably to our difficulties in Upper Burma but has not done so; and if his action is not everything that could be desired, it should be remembered in his favour that it might certainly have been very much more hostile than it has been.
The Woontho Sawbwa is probably the tool of evil advisers, but our position in Upper Burma, which is daily strengthening and improving, will no doubt cause him, before long, to put that confidence and trust in Her Majesty’s representatives, which he has hitherto been so backward in evincing.
Although this potentate has kept his territory fairly in order and given us no cause of complaint against him recently, still he somewhat obstinately refuses to visit the Chief Commission or his representative in Mandalay. He professes to be fearful of treachery on the part of the British Officers! It is to be hoped these foolish ideas will have passed away before Sir Charles Crosthwaite holds his next Durbar in Mandalay. Several of the Shan Chiefs have received certificates recognising their status, confirming them in their appointments and assuring them of British protection in the event of their requiring it. The Woontho Sawbwa has been informed that until he shows his friendly disposition and loyalty by visiting the Chief Commissioner or his representative, it will not be possible for him to receive this acknowledgement of his position which, otherwise, the Chief Commissioner as representative of the Queen Empress, would be happy to bestow on him.
It is to be hoped the Woontho Sawbwa will, eventually, be freed from him unworthy suspicions of British Officers. Our treatment of the Theebaw Sawbwa and others, should have gone far to reassure him. He is, we believe, assisting in procuring carriage and supplies for the Moo Valley Railway Survey party and there is no reason, we think, to apprehend that he intends to be other than friendly to us, although, his distrust of our officers is certainly somewhat remarkable and has the aspect of unfriendliness, to say the least of it.
These Sawbwa’s, in many instances are as difficult to deal with a wayward children, but with patience and tact, Messrs. Hildebrand, C.I.E., and Scott have overcome all difficulties with those they have met to the east of Woontho territory; and we have no doubt that the Woontho Sawbwa, though he has hitherto proved more untractable than any other of the rulers of the Shan States, will eventually give way to the gentle pressure brought to bear on him and to circumstances which are so far beyond his control. He might have added considerably to our difficulties in Upper Burma but has not done so; and if his action is not everything that could be desired, it should be remembered in his favour that it might certainly have been very much more hostile than it has been.
The Woontho Sawbwa is probably the tool of evil advisers, but our position in Upper Burma, which is daily strengthening and improving, will no doubt cause him, before long, to put that confidence and trust in Her Majesty’s representatives, which he has hitherto been so backward in evincing.
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The Pyinmana District
We understand active measures are to be taken this cool season to clear out the remaining members of dacoit gangs who are thought to have taken refuge in the adjoining Shan Hills and Yomas. It is a feather in the cap of Mr H.L. Eales, formerly so well-known and appreciated in Rangoon as Asst. Magistrate, that this Pyinmana district, since his departure on a well earned furlough to Europe, has had more violent crime in it than when in his charge. Doubtless after the hills adjoining have been thoroughly searched for bad characters an improvement will take place. The adjoining Yamethin district, held entirely by police for no troops have been stationed there for eight months, is kept in remarkably good order and though there are occasional robberies reported these seem to be committed by villagers and not by any organised gangs of dacoits. |
The Ruby Mines Concession
The Government have indicated to the Streeter Syndicate that they are disposed to accept their new tender for the Burma Ruby Mines. it is understood, says the Home News, that a new tender, lodged within the past ten days, whilst upholding their claim to the contract formerly concluded with the Government of India, is of a more favourable character than that originally lodged and gives the Indian authorities an increased pecuniary interest in the successful working and development of the mines. The Pall Mall Gazette congratulates the home Government on the honourable course they have taken of affirming the validity of the contract, which the Viceroy’s Council had technically accepted, especially as they have at the same time secured for the Exchequer a pro rata share in the profits of the undertaking. |
Editorial
The Kachin Expedition
It is possible that when Lt. O’Donnell has disposed of the Kachin tribes who have been giving trouble on the Mogoung frontier, and if this is done sufficiently early, that advantage will be taken of his presence with troops and police in the neighbourhood to explore the country lying between the Upper Chindwin and the Bhamo districts. Mr Ross, Asst. Commissioner, has already proceeded by boat up the Uyr river almost to the latitude of the Indawgyee lake and when the Kachin question is once settled there should be no difficulty in Lt. O’Donnell and Mr Ross meeting somewhere on the confines of the Bhamo and Upper Chindwin districts and adding considerably to our knowledge of the geography and inhabitants of this little known part of the country.
The Kachin Expedition
It is possible that when Lt. O’Donnell has disposed of the Kachin tribes who have been giving trouble on the Mogoung frontier, and if this is done sufficiently early, that advantage will be taken of his presence with troops and police in the neighbourhood to explore the country lying between the Upper Chindwin and the Bhamo districts. Mr Ross, Asst. Commissioner, has already proceeded by boat up the Uyr river almost to the latitude of the Indawgyee lake and when the Kachin question is once settled there should be no difficulty in Lt. O’Donnell and Mr Ross meeting somewhere on the confines of the Bhamo and Upper Chindwin districts and adding considerably to our knowledge of the geography and inhabitants of this little known part of the country.
1888
Another year has drawn to its close and before the next issue of our paper is in the hands of our readers the New Year will have commenced to run its course. May it be a happy and prosperous one for the country generally and for the readers and supporters of the Rangoon Times in particular. ... Death has removed from Burma a large number of our friends and acquaintances in the year 1888. But there have been fewer deaths in Upper Burma at the hands of those fighting against us. Amongst those who have been killed in action, the names of inspector J.W.C. Chill of the Chindwin Police, who was shot early in the year near Alon, of Mr O’Dowda of the Police and Lieut. Williamson, of the Munster Fusiliers, who fell into an ambush at Myotha, are the only ones that occur to us at present. They all died bravely fighting against great odds and their deaths were speedily avenged.
As the year closes it seems there is some prospect of the Sawlapaw expedition seeing some fighting, that potentate having apparently no intention of giving in as was at first expected he would. The fighting will be soon over we believe and the real difficulty, that of administrating this wild country, will probably have to be encountered in the forthcoming year.
Among those who have passed away in civil employ are some old residents and worthy men who can ill be spared from our midst though their place shall know them no more. The late Mr J.C. Gillbanks, the Rev’d. James A. Colbeck, Mr Brind, Assistant Commissioner, Shwebo, Mr Fforde, Deputy Commissioner, Sagaing, Dr. Lysnar, Mr S. Pinthong, Mr E.J. Carrier, Mr Amos Jackson, Mr William Robert Vyall, Mr W.H. Rundle, Mr Gopaul Naidoo, Mrs Hawkes, Mrs Riddock, Mr John Middleton, a humble but useful press reporter of many years standing in Rangoon, are amongst those who have died in 1888, leaving many sorrowing relations and friends. The province also saw the last of Colonel Street, Commissioner of Pegu, Mr A. Watson, of the Chartered Bank, and Messrs. Hordern and Gilbert of the Educational Department, who retired to Europe in 1888.
The Sagaing district, in Mr Fforde, lost the services of a really capable officer. His successor, Mr Carter, has his work cut out for him, as there are still some minor leaders to be accounted for in this district. But before the next warm season we my hope that Mr Carter, working on the same lines as the experienced officer whose loss we deplore, will have thoroughly cleared this turbulent district of the men who have been harassing it, and we hope, in a very few months more, it will be completely pacified; we believe it would have been so by this time had Mr Fforde lived.
Another year has drawn to its close and before the next issue of our paper is in the hands of our readers the New Year will have commenced to run its course. May it be a happy and prosperous one for the country generally and for the readers and supporters of the Rangoon Times in particular. ... Death has removed from Burma a large number of our friends and acquaintances in the year 1888. But there have been fewer deaths in Upper Burma at the hands of those fighting against us. Amongst those who have been killed in action, the names of inspector J.W.C. Chill of the Chindwin Police, who was shot early in the year near Alon, of Mr O’Dowda of the Police and Lieut. Williamson, of the Munster Fusiliers, who fell into an ambush at Myotha, are the only ones that occur to us at present. They all died bravely fighting against great odds and their deaths were speedily avenged.
As the year closes it seems there is some prospect of the Sawlapaw expedition seeing some fighting, that potentate having apparently no intention of giving in as was at first expected he would. The fighting will be soon over we believe and the real difficulty, that of administrating this wild country, will probably have to be encountered in the forthcoming year.
Among those who have passed away in civil employ are some old residents and worthy men who can ill be spared from our midst though their place shall know them no more. The late Mr J.C. Gillbanks, the Rev’d. James A. Colbeck, Mr Brind, Assistant Commissioner, Shwebo, Mr Fforde, Deputy Commissioner, Sagaing, Dr. Lysnar, Mr S. Pinthong, Mr E.J. Carrier, Mr Amos Jackson, Mr William Robert Vyall, Mr W.H. Rundle, Mr Gopaul Naidoo, Mrs Hawkes, Mrs Riddock, Mr John Middleton, a humble but useful press reporter of many years standing in Rangoon, are amongst those who have died in 1888, leaving many sorrowing relations and friends. The province also saw the last of Colonel Street, Commissioner of Pegu, Mr A. Watson, of the Chartered Bank, and Messrs. Hordern and Gilbert of the Educational Department, who retired to Europe in 1888.
The Sagaing district, in Mr Fforde, lost the services of a really capable officer. His successor, Mr Carter, has his work cut out for him, as there are still some minor leaders to be accounted for in this district. But before the next warm season we my hope that Mr Carter, working on the same lines as the experienced officer whose loss we deplore, will have thoroughly cleared this turbulent district of the men who have been harassing it, and we hope, in a very few months more, it will be completely pacified; we believe it would have been so by this time had Mr Fforde lived.
Billiards
The Billiard Handicap at the R.V.A. Club was concluded on Friday evening when Mr E.A. Lutter, who started at 50, played off the final round against Mr Baker junior, receiving 40 and defeated him by 93 points in a game of 250 up. The best break during the game was a pretty 37 by Mr Lutter, who has also made the biggest during the handicap, one of 41.
The Billiard Handicap at the R.V.A. Club was concluded on Friday evening when Mr E.A. Lutter, who started at 50, played off the final round against Mr Baker junior, receiving 40 and defeated him by 93 points in a game of 250 up. The best break during the game was a pretty 37 by Mr Lutter, who has also made the biggest during the handicap, one of 41.
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Timber
We hear the largest saw, 7 feet in diameter, and the largest rack bench ever imported into Burma came by the steamer Irrawaddy for Mr D.D. Coath’s establishment at Ahlone. Mr Coath is at present engaged in cutting up teak for the Bombay Burma Trading Corporation and this large machinery was required for some of the enormous squares they are turning out there for shipment to Europe. Irrawaddy Flotilla Co. The S.S. China was successfully launched at the Dalla Dockyard in Saturday afternoon. At about half past one o’clock the shores were removed and amid deafening cheers the vessel glided gracefully into the river. The christening was undertaken by Mrs F.C. Kennedy on Wednesday last when in consequence of the ground being soft near the river the ways swerved out of line and the attempt to launch the vessel proved unsuccessful. Mrs Kennedy was subsequently presented with a magnificent gold bracelet set in diamonds, by the Foreman of the yard, as a souvenir of the launch and as a tribute to their respect and esteem; Mr Stark, the Superintendent, in making the presentation, thanked Mrs Kennedy for the kindly interest she had always taken in all that concerned the welfare of not only the Foreman, but every employee of the yard. The gift was suitably acknowledged. |
Posting
Under telegraphic communication from the Principal Medical Officer, Upper Burma Field Force, Mandalay, Surgeon Major J.A. Smith, M.S., is directed to proceed to Myingyan and relieve Surgeon A.S. Tate stationed there. Ruby Mines The Duke of Monrtose, who arrived by yesterday’s mail steamer, proceeds, we believe, to Mandalay with Sir Charles Crosthwaite. We understand that it is his Grace’s intention to visit the Ruby Mines. Gazette of India 18th Oct. 1888 The undermentioned gentlemen have been appointed Members of the Bengal Civil Service in the following order and to the provinces placed against their names:- Walter Hill Dawson, Burma Bertram Prior Standen, Burma Robert Corser Montford Symns, Burma |
Notes from the Musketry Camp
Saturday was a gala day in the Musketry Camp at Insein, the announcement that there was going to be a shooting match for ladies only, making many members of the different Corps, who had as yet not paid a visit to the Camp, go down there by train, as well as a large number of the ladies, who came down with the intention of entering for the match, or to see how their friends could level “the deadly tube” (vide penny novels.) The conditions were slightly altered, the ladies firing 100 yards instead of the 75 as advertised. ... There were thirteen entries and Mrs Johnson and Mrs Dudgeon opened the ball, each making a highest possible viz – 25 (five bulls eyes.) None of the other ladies were able to make a score equal to these, though Miss Gordon went very near it, putting in three bulls eyes before she made the inner, which lost her the chance of being first or second. Her score was 24 out of a possible 25, good enough to take first place in most company, but here only getting third. Miss Ransom was next in order with the splendid score of 23. The two top scores then shot off their tie at 3rd class targets. Mr[s] Johnson, again making a clinking score of 21 (one more than an average of inners) her last two shots being both bulls, the total being made up of three bulls, an inner and an outer. Mrs Dudgeon never found the small bull at all and was beaten by five points, making a very good score of 16, 4 magpies and an inner. The arms used were rook-rifles. The following are the scores made:-
The Amazon Stakes
1st prize, a gold bangle worth Rs. 50. 2nd prize, a gold bangle worth Rs. 30. 3rd prize, a gold bangle worth Rs. 20.
Saturday was a gala day in the Musketry Camp at Insein, the announcement that there was going to be a shooting match for ladies only, making many members of the different Corps, who had as yet not paid a visit to the Camp, go down there by train, as well as a large number of the ladies, who came down with the intention of entering for the match, or to see how their friends could level “the deadly tube” (vide penny novels.) The conditions were slightly altered, the ladies firing 100 yards instead of the 75 as advertised. ... There were thirteen entries and Mrs Johnson and Mrs Dudgeon opened the ball, each making a highest possible viz – 25 (five bulls eyes.) None of the other ladies were able to make a score equal to these, though Miss Gordon went very near it, putting in three bulls eyes before she made the inner, which lost her the chance of being first or second. Her score was 24 out of a possible 25, good enough to take first place in most company, but here only getting third. Miss Ransom was next in order with the splendid score of 23. The two top scores then shot off their tie at 3rd class targets. Mr[s] Johnson, again making a clinking score of 21 (one more than an average of inners) her last two shots being both bulls, the total being made up of three bulls, an inner and an outer. Mrs Dudgeon never found the small bull at all and was beaten by five points, making a very good score of 16, 4 magpies and an inner. The arms used were rook-rifles. The following are the scores made:-
The Amazon Stakes
1st prize, a gold bangle worth Rs. 50. 2nd prize, a gold bangle worth Rs. 30. 3rd prize, a gold bangle worth Rs. 20.
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1st Mrs Johnson, 25, 21
2nd Mrs Dudgeon, 25, 16 3rd Miss Gordon, 24 Mrs Clarke Kennedy, 20 Mrs Darlington, 19 Mrs Temple, 18 |
Miss M. Ransom, 17
Mrs Raven, 14 Miss E. Hodgkinson, 10 Miss A. Hodgkinson, 9 Mrs VanSomeren, 9 Mrs Innes, 5 |
Mandalay Races
The racing was good and the meeting a success. The results of the first day’s Dec. 27th racing are as follows:
The Burman Hurdles
Mr McDonald’s Yan Yan, 1; Mr Tulloch’s Antonia, 2; Mr Bourke’s James 111, 3. Eleven ran.
The Dwarf Stakes
Pure Gold, 1; Mr Radcliff’s Eileen, 2; Shwebo Confederacy’s Sheet Anchor, 3; six ran.
The Mandalay Plate
Messrs. Alban and Spearman’s Shellback, 1; Mr Renny Tailyour’s Fidget, 2; Bustler, 3; five started.
The Palace Cup
Mr Tulloch’s The Dean, 1; Capt. Black’s The Deil, 2; Mr Spearman’s Pink Eye, 3; six ran.
The St. Ledger
Capt. Spragge’s Nana, 1; Pot-8 vs, 2; Prince Charles, 3; three ran.
The Eclipse States
Moung Hpo Khine’s Zaing, 1; Too Too 2; Capt. Kearny’s Soft Soap, 3; seven ran.
The Irrawaddy Cup
Mr McDonald’s Yan Yan, 1; Pure Gold, 2; Mr Alban’s Kyaw Zaw, 3; nine ran.
The racing was good and the meeting a success. The results of the first day’s Dec. 27th racing are as follows:
The Burman Hurdles
Mr McDonald’s Yan Yan, 1; Mr Tulloch’s Antonia, 2; Mr Bourke’s James 111, 3. Eleven ran.
The Dwarf Stakes
Pure Gold, 1; Mr Radcliff’s Eileen, 2; Shwebo Confederacy’s Sheet Anchor, 3; six ran.
The Mandalay Plate
Messrs. Alban and Spearman’s Shellback, 1; Mr Renny Tailyour’s Fidget, 2; Bustler, 3; five started.
The Palace Cup
Mr Tulloch’s The Dean, 1; Capt. Black’s The Deil, 2; Mr Spearman’s Pink Eye, 3; six ran.
The St. Ledger
Capt. Spragge’s Nana, 1; Pot-8 vs, 2; Prince Charles, 3; three ran.
The Eclipse States
Moung Hpo Khine’s Zaing, 1; Too Too 2; Capt. Kearny’s Soft Soap, 3; seven ran.
The Irrawaddy Cup
Mr McDonald’s Yan Yan, 1; Pure Gold, 2; Mr Alban’s Kyaw Zaw, 3; nine ran.
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Local News
Jail The satisfactory manner in which the Monywa Jail is getting on at present reflects no small amount of credit on Mr John Fischer, the acting Civil Surgeon, who is appointed in charge of it. The average daily inmates of this jail is calculated to be about 120 and if there is a likelihood of the number of inmates increasing owing to the closing of certain jails, then in all probability sanction will be applied for from the Local Government to increase the accommodation. From the latest advices received from Monywa, the Inspector-General of Prisons has every reason to be satisfied with the progress made in goal (sic) discipline under Mr Fischer at Monywa. Mr Outhwaite In the case of Outhwaite versus the Secretary of State to be heard before the Recorder, was postponed to 4th January, the costs of the summons not having been paid. Lottery Among the many lotteries to be opened on Christmas Eve, that of Messrs. Basch & Co’s., opposite Evershed’s Hotel, is a beautiful collection of prizes of superior quality, which no doubt accounts for the number of tickets that have already been disposed of. Though only a new firm, they seem to have already gained a reputation for the quality of goods which they supply and we feel sure that all who patronise their lottery, which they need not do until they have inspected the prizes which are now on view, will be satisfied that they will get the value for their money. |
Editorial
From time to time during some months past Truth has been receiving all sorts of insinuations and complaints against a legal gentleman practising in Rangoon and acting as the Times correspondent in that remote spot. In the absence of thoroughly unimpeachable information, it has studiously refrained from taking any definite notice of the gentleman, although in relation to one matter – the privileges and monopoly of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Company which it had occasion to speak of at the time the subject was brought to the notice of the House of Commons – it formed its own opinion and a very strong opinion, as to the action of the Times correspondent. However, it now sees that a gentleman named Moylan has recently been deprived of his licence to practise in the Recorder’s Court at Rangoon for contempt of Court in imputing partiality of the Judge and in offering an apology which, in the Judge’s opinion aggravated his offence. It learns further that prior to his appearance in Burma, this Mr Moylan had been struck off the rolls of the Colonial Court at Granada. Finally, it is stated in an Indian paper that Mr Moylan “has earned notoriety as the Burma correspondent of the Times.” Truth feels justified therefore, in inviting the attention of Messrs. Walter and Buckle to the eccentricities of their Rangoon representative or representatives. It is almost tempted to put the matter to them more strongly than that; but, knowing what it does of the correspondents of the Times in much more important places than Rangoon, it feels that it would be idle to indicate what their proper course would be in this case. |
Judicial
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Damages
In the case for Rs. 5000 damages between Dr. Hamilton Ross and Dr. Pedley on the board of the Recorder’s Court yesterday for settlement of issues, Mr Cowasjee said he had been retained for the defendant and asked for further time for filing a written statement which was granted, Mr Vertannes for Plaintiff not objecting. Trespass The case of R.H. Lenkiet, Clerk at Messrs. Edmund Jones & Co. against Mr and Mrs Wilson for house trespass, was heard before the Asst. Magistrate yesterday morning. The complainant stated that he, his wife and child were monthly boarders at Mr and Mrs Wilson’s house. On the 19th Nov. they received a letter ordering them to quit at once. By the 28th they had obtained other lodgings and on that morning were packing up, when the butler came to the door with a bill. Witness said he saw the bill was incorrect and went and told Mr Wilson that he would pay on December 3rd, shortly after this Mr and Mrs Wilson walked into the bedroom and ordered the servants to remove the things. Mr Wilson had a club as long as a policeman’s baton in his hand, believed it to be the one the accused had in his hand (pointing to ordinary walking stick.) Accused said, this is the way we do business in Australia. Witness then left the house with his family and paid Mr Wilson’s bill, deducting Rs. 9. Alice Lenkeit (sic) stated that on [the] morning of the 28th that while she was dressing Mr and Mrs Wilson, together with some servants, came into the room and began removing the things. Mr and Mrs Wilson pulled down the purdah. Cross-examined: she stated she knew why the second notice was so sharp as in reply to the first notice received, her husband wrote that he gladly accepted notice and that they had [for] some time made up their minds to leave as soon as they could get accommodation elsewhere, as the food was bad, the doors had no locks and they had missed some of their things whilst they had been there. Mr Wilson, in his defence, said that on the morning of the 28th he went to the door of complainant’s room and told them they had no right to the room as he had only allowed them to sleep there. Witness threatened to bring him up for trespass for entering the room, accused replied the room was his. Complainant refused to give note or hand or any other security for payment of account and he ordered the servants to take charge of things until the Courts opened. The Magistrate, in giving judgement, said he could see no grounds for finding the accused guilty of criminal trespass, as accused believed he had a right to enter the apartment and did so with no criminal intent. Accused was discharged. Drunk Before the Hony. Magistrate on Monday the only cases of any importance which came up and were disposed of are as follows: ... An Eurasian named G.V. Defrie was brought up and charged with being drunk and incapable and committing a nuisance on the streets. On being found guilty he was sentenced to pay a fine of Rs. 5. |
Mr Heaton
Mr Heaton, Barrister-at-Law, of Lincoln Inn, London, was yesterday introduced to the Recorder by the officiating Government Advocate and admitted to practice in the Recorder’s Court and Courts subordinate thereto. Insolvent Mr Porter for H.A. Rose, insolvent, whose case was on the file said he had been unable to communicate with his client who was said to have gone to India. He asked that the petition be struck of which was accordingly done. Robbery A very clear robbery was perpetrated in the house of Dr. DeSouza, in Dalhousie Street, yesterday at two o’clock. It appears that the Doctor had gone to be between one and two o’clock in the morning, having had an extra amount of work to do, and on his wakening in the morning he found his gold watch and chain, along with a penknife and coat, missing. Information was at one given to the police at the Town Lock-up, who, after an inspection of the premises found that the thief or thieves had evidently obtained their footing inside by means of climbing up the rain water pipe and opening the window. No trace of the robber had as yet been discovered, although the police are of opinion that they have discovered a clue which will eventually lead to the apprehension of the culprit. Irrawaddy Flotilla - Breach of the Stamp Act. The Deputy Commissioner has instructed the Akunwun to institute proceedings in the Asst. Magistrate’s Court in the following cases: Mr O. Harraden, Chief Officer of the I.F.S. Yomah, Mr Vincent, Chief Officer of the Mindoon and Mr Smith, Clerk of the Euphrates (in two cases) under section 61 of the General Stamp Act for having executed documents (receipts) without the same being duly stamped as required under article 52 schedule 1 of the general Stamp Act. Mr Outhwaite Mr Outhwaite was yesterday allowed to sue as a pauper in the Recorder’s Court for a sum of Rs. 1,800 alleged to be due by the Deputy Postmaster General, who raised no opposition to the petitioner’s pauperism. Mr W. D’Attaides The criminal case against Mr W. D’Attaides and three Burmans with regard to some timber in Mandalay, broke down completely. The Burmans were first prosecuted and discharged and Mr D’Attaides was called up the next day and released from his security bond. The case was apparently one of entirely a civil nature, which should never have been sent up by the Police. Though it was a non-bailable charge, the Magistrate seems to have done what he could to alleviate he accused by taking bail, which all except one unfortunate Burman were able at once to give. |
Appeals before the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council
Bhugwandass vs The Netherlands India Sea & Fire Insurance Co. of Batavia
The was an appeal from a decree of the Court of the Recorder of Rangoon of July 23rd 1886 dismissing a suit brought by the appellant for the specific performance of a contract alleged to have been made by the respondents to deliver a policy of insurance not exceeding 15,000 rupees on rice and disbursements on the vessel Copeland Isle on a voyage from Rangoon to Bombay. Mr Gorell Barnes, Q.C. and Mr A. Agabeg were counsel for the appellant, Mr Arthur Cohen, Q.C. and Mr R.G. Arbuthnot for the respondents.
The appellant Bhugwandass, is a merchant in Mogul St., Rangoon, and in his plaint he alleged that on Mar. 9th 1885, he entered into an agreement with Mr J. Macrory for a charter of his vessel the Copeland Isle, from Rangoon to Bombay and that Macrory guaranteed the vessel a good insurance risk and undertook to obtain insurance for such goods as the appellant should ship by her. The appellant requested Macrory to obtain an insurance for Rs. 15000 on 1000 bags of rice which he intended to ship in the vessel and on certain disbursements which he was to make on acccu9nt of the ship. Mr Macrory applied to the respondents’ agents at Rangoon to accept an insurance risk for Rs. 15000 by the Copeland Isle to Bombay, which they agreed to do and in due course issued what is called an “open cover” for the same which Macrory brought to and endorsed over to the appellant. The latter shipped the rice on the Copeland Isle and disbursed on her Rs. 4000 and on March 31st he wrote to the respondents’ agents a request to declare policies of insurance for Rs. 15000 and enclosed the premium.
The respondents replied by letter regretting that as they did not grant the appellant an “open cover” they could not issue a policy and returning the premium. The Copeland Isle was lost on the voyage and the appellant claimed specific performances of the contract of insurance with costs. The respondents by their answer, denied that an “open cover” was given to Macrory at all, and alleged that what was given was only an intimation of the company’s willingness to insure the rice in question. For the sake of convenience the note to this effect was written on the open cover form which was used on but the form was not signed by the respondents’ agents nor registered by them in the books. They further alleged that the appellant was duly informed of the facts before the sailing of the ship and that they took a larger risk shipped on board the Copeland Isle from another person. They also said that the endorsement by Macrory was made without their consent, knowledge or notice and that Mr Macrory had no insurable interest in rise shipped in the vessel. The case was tried before the Recorder of Rangoon, who gave judgement for the respondents with costs. From that decision the present appeal was instituted. At the conclusion of the arguments their Lordships said they would take time to consider their judgement.
Bhugwandass vs The Netherlands India Sea & Fire Insurance Co. of Batavia
The was an appeal from a decree of the Court of the Recorder of Rangoon of July 23rd 1886 dismissing a suit brought by the appellant for the specific performance of a contract alleged to have been made by the respondents to deliver a policy of insurance not exceeding 15,000 rupees on rice and disbursements on the vessel Copeland Isle on a voyage from Rangoon to Bombay. Mr Gorell Barnes, Q.C. and Mr A. Agabeg were counsel for the appellant, Mr Arthur Cohen, Q.C. and Mr R.G. Arbuthnot for the respondents.
The appellant Bhugwandass, is a merchant in Mogul St., Rangoon, and in his plaint he alleged that on Mar. 9th 1885, he entered into an agreement with Mr J. Macrory for a charter of his vessel the Copeland Isle, from Rangoon to Bombay and that Macrory guaranteed the vessel a good insurance risk and undertook to obtain insurance for such goods as the appellant should ship by her. The appellant requested Macrory to obtain an insurance for Rs. 15000 on 1000 bags of rice which he intended to ship in the vessel and on certain disbursements which he was to make on acccu9nt of the ship. Mr Macrory applied to the respondents’ agents at Rangoon to accept an insurance risk for Rs. 15000 by the Copeland Isle to Bombay, which they agreed to do and in due course issued what is called an “open cover” for the same which Macrory brought to and endorsed over to the appellant. The latter shipped the rice on the Copeland Isle and disbursed on her Rs. 4000 and on March 31st he wrote to the respondents’ agents a request to declare policies of insurance for Rs. 15000 and enclosed the premium.
The respondents replied by letter regretting that as they did not grant the appellant an “open cover” they could not issue a policy and returning the premium. The Copeland Isle was lost on the voyage and the appellant claimed specific performances of the contract of insurance with costs. The respondents by their answer, denied that an “open cover” was given to Macrory at all, and alleged that what was given was only an intimation of the company’s willingness to insure the rice in question. For the sake of convenience the note to this effect was written on the open cover form which was used on but the form was not signed by the respondents’ agents nor registered by them in the books. They further alleged that the appellant was duly informed of the facts before the sailing of the ship and that they took a larger risk shipped on board the Copeland Isle from another person. They also said that the endorsement by Macrory was made without their consent, knowledge or notice and that Mr Macrory had no insurable interest in rise shipped in the vessel. The case was tried before the Recorder of Rangoon, who gave judgement for the respondents with costs. From that decision the present appeal was instituted. At the conclusion of the arguments their Lordships said they would take time to consider their judgement.
Mr Outhwaite
In the case of the petition of Mr W.T. Outhwaite against the Proprietor, Editor and Publisher of our contemporary, for defamation in consequence of a paragraph which appeared in the Local and Provincial News of their issue of 16th November, which was rejected by the Asst. Magistrate, the Additional Recorder, on Mr Outhwaite’s appeal, directed the Magistrate to issue process and enquire into the complaint.
Stamp Act
Mr Vaillant showed cause in the case under the Stamp Act heard before the Asst. Magistrate. He stated that the application for compensation was preposterous that it appeared upon the face of the document that an offence against the Stamp Act had been committed; that the document was a receipt for passage money and purports to be signed by some person that upon the face of it that person should have been the Commander; that at the time it was given, Capt. Hole was in command of the Momein and consequently should have signed it. The case was instituted bona fide and was not a frivolous or vexations complaint at all.
Assault
The following cases of assault etc., which occurred with the town and suburbs of Rangoon and were admitted to the General Hospital are viz: ... Madooray, a butler to Mr Sutherland, Kohkine, while having a quarrel with the syce, was severely beaten on the head with a stick receiving a nasty wound.
In the case of the petition of Mr W.T. Outhwaite against the Proprietor, Editor and Publisher of our contemporary, for defamation in consequence of a paragraph which appeared in the Local and Provincial News of their issue of 16th November, which was rejected by the Asst. Magistrate, the Additional Recorder, on Mr Outhwaite’s appeal, directed the Magistrate to issue process and enquire into the complaint.
Stamp Act
Mr Vaillant showed cause in the case under the Stamp Act heard before the Asst. Magistrate. He stated that the application for compensation was preposterous that it appeared upon the face of the document that an offence against the Stamp Act had been committed; that the document was a receipt for passage money and purports to be signed by some person that upon the face of it that person should have been the Commander; that at the time it was given, Capt. Hole was in command of the Momein and consequently should have signed it. The case was instituted bona fide and was not a frivolous or vexations complaint at all.
Assault
The following cases of assault etc., which occurred with the town and suburbs of Rangoon and were admitted to the General Hospital are viz: ... Madooray, a butler to Mr Sutherland, Kohkine, while having a quarrel with the syce, was severely beaten on the head with a stick receiving a nasty wound.
W.T. Outhwaite
On an application for reversion of an order of the Asst. Magistrate by petitioner W.T. Outhwaite, his Honour the officiating Additional Recorder passed the following judgement:
The Petitioner applied to the Magistrate to issue process against the Editor, Proprietor and Publisher of the Rangoon Gazette on a charge of defamation founded on a paragraph in an issue of the above paper in which his name was mentioned. The Magistrate examined the petitioner and ascertained that the statements concerning him were apparently true and he refused to issue process. The Magistrate gave no reasons for refusing to issue a summons. The paragraph does not purport to be a report of a trial in which petitioner was concerned and even if it did, it would lie on the person who published defamatory matter to show that it was a substantially true report of the proceedings in Court. Some of the statements appear to me to amount to defamation.
The sentence “Mr Outhwaite of Rangoon, the same whose conjugal relations lately occupied the attention of our honourable and learned officiating Recorder, is the complainant” is one of those. It leads anyone reading it to suppose that the petitioner must have been accused of adultery or cruelty to, or desertion of his wife, and such an imputation would certainly lower the petitioner’s character in the estimation of others. Even if any of these imputations were true the petitioner has a right to be protected from the publication and repetition of them if it be not for the public good that the imputation should be made, and the criminal law is the only means by which he can be protected, as in a civil suit the truth of the libel is a sufficient defence. Whether the petitioner was a party to a divorce suit seems to me prima facie to have no connection with the public good, not with the trial about which the paragraph is written.
Against the sentence “last month this Mukerji reported to Mr Hynes that Outhwaite in 1886 had misappropriated some 180 and odd rupees of his said Post Office savings Bank account” is prima facie defamation and would be protected is the accused could show that it came within any of the exceptions in section 199 of the code. The Magistrate will issue process and deal with the complaint in the ordinary way.
On an application for reversion of an order of the Asst. Magistrate by petitioner W.T. Outhwaite, his Honour the officiating Additional Recorder passed the following judgement:
The Petitioner applied to the Magistrate to issue process against the Editor, Proprietor and Publisher of the Rangoon Gazette on a charge of defamation founded on a paragraph in an issue of the above paper in which his name was mentioned. The Magistrate examined the petitioner and ascertained that the statements concerning him were apparently true and he refused to issue process. The Magistrate gave no reasons for refusing to issue a summons. The paragraph does not purport to be a report of a trial in which petitioner was concerned and even if it did, it would lie on the person who published defamatory matter to show that it was a substantially true report of the proceedings in Court. Some of the statements appear to me to amount to defamation.
The sentence “Mr Outhwaite of Rangoon, the same whose conjugal relations lately occupied the attention of our honourable and learned officiating Recorder, is the complainant” is one of those. It leads anyone reading it to suppose that the petitioner must have been accused of adultery or cruelty to, or desertion of his wife, and such an imputation would certainly lower the petitioner’s character in the estimation of others. Even if any of these imputations were true the petitioner has a right to be protected from the publication and repetition of them if it be not for the public good that the imputation should be made, and the criminal law is the only means by which he can be protected, as in a civil suit the truth of the libel is a sufficient defence. Whether the petitioner was a party to a divorce suit seems to me prima facie to have no connection with the public good, not with the trial about which the paragraph is written.
Against the sentence “last month this Mukerji reported to Mr Hynes that Outhwaite in 1886 had misappropriated some 180 and odd rupees of his said Post Office savings Bank account” is prima facie defamation and would be protected is the accused could show that it came within any of the exceptions in section 199 of the code. The Magistrate will issue process and deal with the complaint in the ordinary way.
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Stamp Act
Capt. Hole The case against Capt. Hole of the Momein came up before the Asst. Magistrate yesterday. The accused was charged under Section 61 of the Stamp Act with issuing an acknowledgement for Rs. 38 to a Mr Adams for his fare and that of his servants from Prome to Thayetmyo. The document produced was a leaf from a passage ticket book with the word “Commander” printed near the end of the page, and over this was a signature, alleged to be that of the accused. Capt. Hole however, denied that the signature was his and the Prosecution having no witnesses to prove it, the case was dismissed. Mr Moylan, who appeared for the defence, then asked for compensation for his client against the Superintendent of Stamps under Section 250 of the Criminal Procedure code, alleging that his client had been brought up on a frivolous charge. Mr Vaillant asked that the matter might be allowed to be postponed until today. Small Cause Court In reference to Tompson (sic) versus the Manager and Engineer-in-Chief of Burma State Railways, a case sent up by the Judge of the Small Cause Court for the opinion of the Recorder, as to whether any attachment could be made on the compulsory deposits belonging to the employees of the Railway Department, judgement was reserved until Tuesday the 18th instant. Assault The charge of assault brought by S. Carew, Government Telegraph Department, against his son-in-law, T. Lazaroo, Guard of the Burma State Railway and E. Pillow was dismissed yesterday by the Asst. Magistrate. The Magistrate considering that the statement made by the accused and his wife that Carew was drunk and assaulted the former, while removing his furniture from the complainant’s house was the more credible account of the affair. Gunja Yesterday a large seizure of gunja was made by Preventive Officer McCalder on board the Madras steamer S.S. Sirsa, at the Soolay Pagoda Wharf. Summons Mr Murphy, Conservancy Inspector, applied yesterday for two summons against the Secretary of the Sooratee Bazaar Co. The Junior Asst. Magistrate who granted both applications framed the following charges: first for erecting pucca steps to a new building on third class lot in 24th St. without submitting plans and specifications and without receiving sanction and second for placing a large quantity of building material in 24th St. on the lots referred to. Stamp Act - Capt. Hole In the matter of the passage ticket issued on 18th August 1888 on board the steamer Momein, regarding which a prosecution was instituted and failed, application was made to take the evidence of Capt. Hole and Mr Adams in order to ascertain by whom the document was signed. It was pointed out that section 192 of the Criminal Code authorised the Asst. Magistrate to hold the enquiry. The Court pointed out that the receipt appeared to have issued at Henzada and it was decided to defer the question of jurisdiction after the evidence had been taken. |
Mr MacFarlane
Mr P. MacFarlane, Watchmaker of Merchant Street, was charged before the Asst. Magistrate yesterday with being drink and disorderly and assaulting people at a pooay in Botataung on Monday night. Police Constable no. 532 said that he arrested the accused in consequence of some Burmans, among whom was Mg Tsan Daw, complaining that he had assaulted them. He had to whistle for assistance to arrest him and the accused was taken in his own tum-tum to the Lock-up. The tum-tum was driven by a friend of the accused. Two other constables gave corroborative evidence but Moung Tsan Daw sated that he had not seen the accused at all on Monday night and denied that the accused had assaulted him as stated by the constable. The case was adjourned until today for the hearing of the witness for the defence. Telegrams - The Burma Courts Bill The Burma Courts Bill, as the result of Mr Scoble’s visit to Burma, will probably be a practical re-enactment of Act of 1875 and emending Acts in one; the Additional Recorder will likely be abolished; the Small Cause Court will be as now with one Judge and one Additional Judge. The idea of a Chief Court will be abandoned until Judicial work in the country shall assume greater magnitude and importance. Calcutta 20th Dec. P. Macfarlane In the matter of P. Macfarlane, the witnesses for the defence in this case were examined yesterday morning and the evidence showed that the accused was neither drunk nor disorderly as alleged by the prosecution. It appears that the policeman no. 552 had jostled against one of the party of which the accused formed one, and had also used abusing language towards him, that the accused then asked the policemen for his number, which he (the policeman) covered with his hand and upon the accused trying to pull it away in order to see what it was, he was arrested for being drunk and disorderly. The evidence for the prosecution broke down all through. The policeman no. 522 represented the accused as being too drunk to stand and the Sergeant of the Guard described him as being only slightly intoxicated. The Constable also swore that the accused assaulted two Burmans, who on being examined, denied having been molested by the accused at all. The Asst. Magistrate in giving Judgement remarked that the evidence for the prosecution was contradictory and discharged the prisoner. In The Court of the Recorder of Rangoon In the Matter of the Estate of Henry Phillip Johns, deceased. Whereas Mah Kyee Byoo alias Catherine Johns residing at no. 39 in 32nd Street of the town of Rangoon, claiming to be the mother of Henry Philip Johns, late of Rangoon, deceased, has applied to the above mentioned Court for a grant of Letters of Administration of the property of the said Henry Philip Johns, deceased, to appear in the said matter (sic) (if they think fit to so) either personally or by a duly authorised agent on the 11th day of January 1889 when the Court will proceed upon the application of the said Mah Kyee Byo alias Catherine Johns and pronounce judgement in the said matter. Dated this 20th day of Dec. 1888. By Order, J.E.G. Villa, Registrar. 22nd Dec. 1888. Mr Outhwaite In the case of Outhwaite versus the Secretary of State to be heard before the Recorder, was postponed to 4th January, the costs of the summons not having been paid. |
Law
The case of Kadir Cassim verus Madooray Pilay was called up on Sunday. The accused, on being asked as to what occurred on the 24th Nov. said he did not see the complainant at all on that day and did not make use of the language set forth in the charge.
The first witness, George Rutherford Renwick, descried as a Ship Chandler, living at Botatoung, said he knew the accused but only knew the complainant by sight, he remembered coming to Court with Maduray Pillay on the 24th, he went to the office of the accused and about 11.30 a.m. went with him first to Mr Summers’ Office and then to Court. Witness waited in the verandah outside court.
Nothing occurred to attract his attention. Accused came out afterwards and then the complainant, Mr Vertannes and some choolias went out on the verandah, met accused and salaamed to him; witness heard no conversation between them. Witness after this went off with accused in a gharry to his store at Botatoung, where they arrived a little before 12 noon and remained there until 3 p.m., witness drove the accused up to his office and left him there about 3.15 or 20 p.m.
Cross examined the witness said he had been a Shipchandler since the 1st August and before that was Secretary to the Carriage Company, had known the accused in a business way about six months. Witness went on Saturday to the office of accused to take him down to see his store and to arrange business relations. Witness was certain he left accused’s office with him between 11 a.m. and 12 noon, witness was certain that he arrived with accused before 12 noon at Botatoung and they remained there until after three o’clock, he was not outside the recorder’s Court between 12 noon and 3 p.m. on the 24th Nov. and witness said (rather warmly) that such a suggestion would be a gross falsehood.
The witness said that his stores consisted of articles ordinarily required by Captains, he also kept a poultry yard and said that the sale of eggs was very remunerative. The value of his stores was between Rs. 15,000 and 20,000. The capital was obtained partly from his father and part belonged to the wife of Captain William my partner. Witness had not been lately in want of money and he had not lately gone to complainant for a loan of Rs. 1,000 not sent to him through a broker named Peters, not went with Peters to complainant’s house and had never been there nor knew where complainant’s house was.
Re-examined the witness said that he first heard of Kadir Cassim’s case against accused by reading a paragraph in the Rangoon Times, which recalled to his mind the transactions of Saturday and surprised him. He had not yet transacted the business about which he went to see the accused.
Mrs Williams, the wife of Capt. J. Williams, of Botatoung, was then examined and said she remembered Madooray Pillay coming down to Botatoung on the 24th and said be arrived before the gun fired. The question on this point was taken down verbatim at the request of Counsel for the Prosecution, he stayed there until after 3 p.m. Since then other people had been to see her but could not remember on what date nor the hours of their arrival. Witness couldn’t remember what Mr Madooray said on that day, he talked business.
Capt. John Williams, described as a Ship-chandler of Botatoung, said he saw accused at Botatoung on the 24th, he came just before 12 noon ad stopped until 3 p.m., witness knew it was three because he had to warn accused that he had business to transact. Witness said that he had seen accused nearly every day since the 24th, he had never seen Kader Kassim (sic) before. The witness here, said with reference to a printed business card bearing the witness’ name, put in by the Prosecution. If you want to put that in, it is fictitious.) The witness had never left the card produced with complainant. Witness said his capital was about Rs. 20,000. He had never borrowed any of it.
This concluded the evidence for the defence. The case was adjourned until the 19th Dec. for the hearing of the Advocates.
The case of Kadir Cassim verus Madooray Pilay was called up on Sunday. The accused, on being asked as to what occurred on the 24th Nov. said he did not see the complainant at all on that day and did not make use of the language set forth in the charge.
The first witness, George Rutherford Renwick, descried as a Ship Chandler, living at Botatoung, said he knew the accused but only knew the complainant by sight, he remembered coming to Court with Maduray Pillay on the 24th, he went to the office of the accused and about 11.30 a.m. went with him first to Mr Summers’ Office and then to Court. Witness waited in the verandah outside court.
Nothing occurred to attract his attention. Accused came out afterwards and then the complainant, Mr Vertannes and some choolias went out on the verandah, met accused and salaamed to him; witness heard no conversation between them. Witness after this went off with accused in a gharry to his store at Botatoung, where they arrived a little before 12 noon and remained there until 3 p.m., witness drove the accused up to his office and left him there about 3.15 or 20 p.m.
Cross examined the witness said he had been a Shipchandler since the 1st August and before that was Secretary to the Carriage Company, had known the accused in a business way about six months. Witness went on Saturday to the office of accused to take him down to see his store and to arrange business relations. Witness was certain he left accused’s office with him between 11 a.m. and 12 noon, witness was certain that he arrived with accused before 12 noon at Botatoung and they remained there until after three o’clock, he was not outside the recorder’s Court between 12 noon and 3 p.m. on the 24th Nov. and witness said (rather warmly) that such a suggestion would be a gross falsehood.
The witness said that his stores consisted of articles ordinarily required by Captains, he also kept a poultry yard and said that the sale of eggs was very remunerative. The value of his stores was between Rs. 15,000 and 20,000. The capital was obtained partly from his father and part belonged to the wife of Captain William my partner. Witness had not been lately in want of money and he had not lately gone to complainant for a loan of Rs. 1,000 not sent to him through a broker named Peters, not went with Peters to complainant’s house and had never been there nor knew where complainant’s house was.
Re-examined the witness said that he first heard of Kadir Cassim’s case against accused by reading a paragraph in the Rangoon Times, which recalled to his mind the transactions of Saturday and surprised him. He had not yet transacted the business about which he went to see the accused.
Mrs Williams, the wife of Capt. J. Williams, of Botatoung, was then examined and said she remembered Madooray Pillay coming down to Botatoung on the 24th and said be arrived before the gun fired. The question on this point was taken down verbatim at the request of Counsel for the Prosecution, he stayed there until after 3 p.m. Since then other people had been to see her but could not remember on what date nor the hours of their arrival. Witness couldn’t remember what Mr Madooray said on that day, he talked business.
Capt. John Williams, described as a Ship-chandler of Botatoung, said he saw accused at Botatoung on the 24th, he came just before 12 noon ad stopped until 3 p.m., witness knew it was three because he had to warn accused that he had business to transact. Witness said that he had seen accused nearly every day since the 24th, he had never seen Kader Kassim (sic) before. The witness here, said with reference to a printed business card bearing the witness’ name, put in by the Prosecution. If you want to put that in, it is fictitious.) The witness had never left the card produced with complainant. Witness said his capital was about Rs. 20,000. He had never borrowed any of it.
This concluded the evidence for the defence. The case was adjourned until the 19th Dec. for the hearing of the Advocates.
Irrawaddy Flotilla Co. vs W.D. Morgan
An application was made to the Recorder of Rangoon yesterday in the matter of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Co. vs W.D. Morgan, for warrant to arrest the defendant for non-payment of costs under a judgement obtained against him in the action. (sic) Mr Sen appearing for the defendant urged that Mr S. Hare, who was at present in Calcutta, had made arrangements to liquidate the judgement upon his return to Rangoon, and in view of this being done, the Recorder ordered warrant to issue. Mr Eddis for petitioner, undertaking that it should not be executed till after the 10th prox.
An application was made to the Recorder of Rangoon yesterday in the matter of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Co. vs W.D. Morgan, for warrant to arrest the defendant for non-payment of costs under a judgement obtained against him in the action. (sic) Mr Sen appearing for the defendant urged that Mr S. Hare, who was at present in Calcutta, had made arrangements to liquidate the judgement upon his return to Rangoon, and in view of this being done, the Recorder ordered warrant to issue. Mr Eddis for petitioner, undertaking that it should not be executed till after the 10th prox.
Hare vs. Coath
The Recorder of Rangoon delivered judgement in revisional application of Hare vs Coath yesterday morning, reversing the decision of the Court, below, but refusing to allow the petitioner his costs. The Respondent brought an action against the Petitioner to recover the sum of Rs. 360 alleged to be due to him as rent of a piece of land dismissed to the petitioner at the rate of Rs. 30 per month. The Respondent asserted that Mr Hare had paid rent for the land up to 31st Aug. 1887 but from that time had neglected to do so. The Petitioner on the other hand admitted this but contended that there had been no contact to demise and that having completed the object for which he obtained possession of the land, he gave it up. The action was heard in the Small Cause Court and judgement given for the Respondent. Mr Hare appealed against the decision and the Recorder in delivering judgement yesterday stated that the question had turned upon whether there really was a demise in the ordinary sense of the word or a mere license given to keep and use the land for a particular purpose. If there had been a regular monthly tenancy the Respondent would have been entitled to a month’s notice but if there had been a license to occupy for a particular purpose no such notice was necessary and the contract would terminate when the purpose for which the land was taken was completed. They very fact that the license to use was to be paid for at so much a month would not of itself constitute a monthly tenancy of the ordinary kind. The full nature of the contract must be gathered from the actual facts. It has been considered that the question had already been decided. This was not strictly correct. In the former suit a set off was claimed for the month of September 1887 (the suit having been filed on the 13th of that month) which he (the Recorder) thought was an indication on Mr Coath’s part that the tenancy ceased in September. The particular point now taken was not raised and decided in that case. The answer to the set off was that Mr Hare had paid up to 1st March 1887; that the contract then came to an end, and nothing more was due. The learned Judge then considered this proved and gave Mr Coath a decree for the amount claimed. In his Judgement of 17th July 1888 he, (the Recorder) said there had been an error in allowing rent for the month of September. If it had ben rent due under an ordinary monthly tenancy (as the Judge held it was) no rent could be due and payable for September except in the view that the tenancy ceased on the expiration of that month and that Mr Hare had already quitted the premises. The question whether it was or was not such a tenancy, was not then raised. He, the Recorder, thought it was clear that the piece of land was taken for a particular purpose and that it was not present to the Plaintiff’s mind that it would not be required after that purpose was completed but because Mr Coath was to be paid Rs. 30 a month for use of the land he treated it as a monthly tenancy. It might be, the Recorder considered, that the parties did not understand each other in March and in consequence Mr Coath wished to adhere to a monthly tenancy; but the very fact that Mr Coath claimed rent for the whole of September showed that in his case the contract was at an end. He, the Recorder, was of opinion that it was not a monthly tenancy and that Mr Coath was not entitled to recover more rent or special notice but considering the whole facts of the case his Honour would not allow the Petitioner his costs. Mr Lowis for Petitioner, Mr Burn for Respondent.
The Recorder of Rangoon delivered judgement in revisional application of Hare vs Coath yesterday morning, reversing the decision of the Court, below, but refusing to allow the petitioner his costs. The Respondent brought an action against the Petitioner to recover the sum of Rs. 360 alleged to be due to him as rent of a piece of land dismissed to the petitioner at the rate of Rs. 30 per month. The Respondent asserted that Mr Hare had paid rent for the land up to 31st Aug. 1887 but from that time had neglected to do so. The Petitioner on the other hand admitted this but contended that there had been no contact to demise and that having completed the object for which he obtained possession of the land, he gave it up. The action was heard in the Small Cause Court and judgement given for the Respondent. Mr Hare appealed against the decision and the Recorder in delivering judgement yesterday stated that the question had turned upon whether there really was a demise in the ordinary sense of the word or a mere license given to keep and use the land for a particular purpose. If there had been a regular monthly tenancy the Respondent would have been entitled to a month’s notice but if there had been a license to occupy for a particular purpose no such notice was necessary and the contract would terminate when the purpose for which the land was taken was completed. They very fact that the license to use was to be paid for at so much a month would not of itself constitute a monthly tenancy of the ordinary kind. The full nature of the contract must be gathered from the actual facts. It has been considered that the question had already been decided. This was not strictly correct. In the former suit a set off was claimed for the month of September 1887 (the suit having been filed on the 13th of that month) which he (the Recorder) thought was an indication on Mr Coath’s part that the tenancy ceased in September. The particular point now taken was not raised and decided in that case. The answer to the set off was that Mr Hare had paid up to 1st March 1887; that the contract then came to an end, and nothing more was due. The learned Judge then considered this proved and gave Mr Coath a decree for the amount claimed. In his Judgement of 17th July 1888 he, (the Recorder) said there had been an error in allowing rent for the month of September. If it had ben rent due under an ordinary monthly tenancy (as the Judge held it was) no rent could be due and payable for September except in the view that the tenancy ceased on the expiration of that month and that Mr Hare had already quitted the premises. The question whether it was or was not such a tenancy, was not then raised. He, the Recorder, thought it was clear that the piece of land was taken for a particular purpose and that it was not present to the Plaintiff’s mind that it would not be required after that purpose was completed but because Mr Coath was to be paid Rs. 30 a month for use of the land he treated it as a monthly tenancy. It might be, the Recorder considered, that the parties did not understand each other in March and in consequence Mr Coath wished to adhere to a monthly tenancy; but the very fact that Mr Coath claimed rent for the whole of September showed that in his case the contract was at an end. He, the Recorder, was of opinion that it was not a monthly tenancy and that Mr Coath was not entitled to recover more rent or special notice but considering the whole facts of the case his Honour would not allow the Petitioner his costs. Mr Lowis for Petitioner, Mr Burn for Respondent.
Articles
The Flotilla Manager and The Rangoon Times
In the last year or so, perhaps, no public body in Burma has been more freely or adversely criticised in the press than the Irrawaddy Flotilla has been in the Rangoon Times. We have said plainly enough that we consider such a monopoly as they possess of the steam traffic on the Irrawaddy, an anachronism at the present day. We have repeatedly pointed out that the direct consequence of the Flotilla and its strange relations with the government, since the annexation if Upper Burma, immensely increases the cost of government and hampers the trade of the country with unduly high freight’s and passage rates. We believe this is beginning to be understood and the enormous reductions that are made wherever there is the slightest sign of opposition shows that we are correct in our estimation of the usual rates charged where the Flotilla’s are the only steamers running. The Rangoon Gazette which apparently sees no advantage to the public in competition may, perhaps, be induced to change its opinion when the Mandalay Railway is opened and the rates for goods and passengers to that place come down at last 50 per cent.
We have already acknowledged that the Flotilla Company have introduced great improvements in most of their steamers. The treatment passengers usually receive on these boats offers a favourable contrast to the treatment of 3rd class passengers by the State Railway. But until there is competition, the public have to pay much higher charges than they otherwise would and as a public and not an Irrawaddy Flotilla organ, we naturally say so.
But though we criticise the Flotilla Company, we can seriously sympathise with them in the loss they will experience in the burning of the Yoma, through no fault of their own, and though we believe they could lose a steamer like her yearly, and not have their dividend adversely affected, it is sad to see so much valuable property destroyed in a few hours and all human aid helpless to avert the destruction.
We also acknowledge the Manager’s courtesy in giving our representative such information at his disposal, which was not much more than we already possessed. But it was the spirit in which it was given and not the value of the information itself that we most appreciated. Mr Kennedy’s example in this matter might be copied with advantage to the press and themselves by some of the bumptious young lordings who have for the present honoured Burma as their temporary hunting ground. He is evidently not one of those who is likely to try and take a mean advantage, even as an opponent. Let blows be given and received in good temper and as long as they are “above the belt,” not much harm is done.
We hope to avail ourselves of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Manager’s courtesy, though, we trust, we may never have again to ask him for information of such a disastrous occurrence as the burning of the Yoma and if officials will only be as communicative as Mr Kennedy and the State Railway will extend to 3rd class passengers, by their trains, as good treatment as the Flotilla Company affords to its deck passengers, Burma will be a better place to live in 1889 than it has hitherto been.
In the last year or so, perhaps, no public body in Burma has been more freely or adversely criticised in the press than the Irrawaddy Flotilla has been in the Rangoon Times. We have said plainly enough that we consider such a monopoly as they possess of the steam traffic on the Irrawaddy, an anachronism at the present day. We have repeatedly pointed out that the direct consequence of the Flotilla and its strange relations with the government, since the annexation if Upper Burma, immensely increases the cost of government and hampers the trade of the country with unduly high freight’s and passage rates. We believe this is beginning to be understood and the enormous reductions that are made wherever there is the slightest sign of opposition shows that we are correct in our estimation of the usual rates charged where the Flotilla’s are the only steamers running. The Rangoon Gazette which apparently sees no advantage to the public in competition may, perhaps, be induced to change its opinion when the Mandalay Railway is opened and the rates for goods and passengers to that place come down at last 50 per cent.
We have already acknowledged that the Flotilla Company have introduced great improvements in most of their steamers. The treatment passengers usually receive on these boats offers a favourable contrast to the treatment of 3rd class passengers by the State Railway. But until there is competition, the public have to pay much higher charges than they otherwise would and as a public and not an Irrawaddy Flotilla organ, we naturally say so.
But though we criticise the Flotilla Company, we can seriously sympathise with them in the loss they will experience in the burning of the Yoma, through no fault of their own, and though we believe they could lose a steamer like her yearly, and not have their dividend adversely affected, it is sad to see so much valuable property destroyed in a few hours and all human aid helpless to avert the destruction.
We also acknowledge the Manager’s courtesy in giving our representative such information at his disposal, which was not much more than we already possessed. But it was the spirit in which it was given and not the value of the information itself that we most appreciated. Mr Kennedy’s example in this matter might be copied with advantage to the press and themselves by some of the bumptious young lordings who have for the present honoured Burma as their temporary hunting ground. He is evidently not one of those who is likely to try and take a mean advantage, even as an opponent. Let blows be given and received in good temper and as long as they are “above the belt,” not much harm is done.
We hope to avail ourselves of the Irrawaddy Flotilla Manager’s courtesy, though, we trust, we may never have again to ask him for information of such a disastrous occurrence as the burning of the Yoma and if officials will only be as communicative as Mr Kennedy and the State Railway will extend to 3rd class passengers, by their trains, as good treatment as the Flotilla Company affords to its deck passengers, Burma will be a better place to live in 1889 than it has hitherto been.
The Shan States
Capt. A.C. Yate, contributes to the Asiatic Quarterly an excellent and timely paper on “The Shan States” which he describes in glowing colours with the graphic power of pen with which his writings have made so many readers familiar. ... One interesting statement made by Capt. Yate is that “the ultimate delimitation of the British, Chinese and Siamese (territories) may perhaps leave British and French acquisitions in Indo-China separated by but a narrow strip of alien territory.”
On the subject of Messrs. Colquhoun and Hallett’s Railway Project, Capt. Yate agrees with Lieut. Younghusband and “Old Arakan.” He says:- Mr Colquhoun and Mr Holt-Hallett have struggled hard to persuade the British public that the best way of getting at Yunnan is by rail through Siam. My opinion is that the British nation wants railways trough its own and not through alien territory. We shall have ample means of access to Yunnan through Burma and the British Shan States. It is likely that Siam would favour a railway that will draw half the trade of Bangkok to the British port of Moulmein? Of course, if a few years later we like to stretch a point or two and annex Siam, why then the scheme of Messrs. Holt-Hallett and Colquhoun will wear a very different complexion. In the meantime there is no doubt that, with peace, the old trade from Yunnan and the Chinese Shan States by the ferries of the Salween and the valleys of the Tapng and Shweli will survive. A year or two will enable our Civil Officials to gauge the value of the trade and our Civil Engineers to report on the best route for a railway from the Irrawaddy to the Salween. My impression is that an advantageous line of country may be found across the plateau that stretches northward from Theinnimyo and the Namtu valley, between the valleys of Salween and the Shweli, to the iron bridge at Meunkeu. But much more exploration is necessary before a definite opinion can be given on this point. During the winter of 1888-89 it is probable that some further steps will be taken towards the delimitation of the frontier between the British and Chinese Shan States, which will also admit of more extended exploration.
Capt. A.C. Yate, contributes to the Asiatic Quarterly an excellent and timely paper on “The Shan States” which he describes in glowing colours with the graphic power of pen with which his writings have made so many readers familiar. ... One interesting statement made by Capt. Yate is that “the ultimate delimitation of the British, Chinese and Siamese (territories) may perhaps leave British and French acquisitions in Indo-China separated by but a narrow strip of alien territory.”
On the subject of Messrs. Colquhoun and Hallett’s Railway Project, Capt. Yate agrees with Lieut. Younghusband and “Old Arakan.” He says:- Mr Colquhoun and Mr Holt-Hallett have struggled hard to persuade the British public that the best way of getting at Yunnan is by rail through Siam. My opinion is that the British nation wants railways trough its own and not through alien territory. We shall have ample means of access to Yunnan through Burma and the British Shan States. It is likely that Siam would favour a railway that will draw half the trade of Bangkok to the British port of Moulmein? Of course, if a few years later we like to stretch a point or two and annex Siam, why then the scheme of Messrs. Holt-Hallett and Colquhoun will wear a very different complexion. In the meantime there is no doubt that, with peace, the old trade from Yunnan and the Chinese Shan States by the ferries of the Salween and the valleys of the Tapng and Shweli will survive. A year or two will enable our Civil Officials to gauge the value of the trade and our Civil Engineers to report on the best route for a railway from the Irrawaddy to the Salween. My impression is that an advantageous line of country may be found across the plateau that stretches northward from Theinnimyo and the Namtu valley, between the valleys of Salween and the Shweli, to the iron bridge at Meunkeu. But much more exploration is necessary before a definite opinion can be given on this point. During the winter of 1888-89 it is probable that some further steps will be taken towards the delimitation of the frontier between the British and Chinese Shan States, which will also admit of more extended exploration.
Railways
The Pioneer writes as follows about the opening of the Tounghoo-Mandalay line:-
The Tounghoo-Mandalay Railway, a line of the greatest importance both commercially and strategically, will probably be opened by the middle of February and the tranquillising effect upon the eastern districts will unquestionable be very great. The Burmans will realise how rapidly troops can be moved from point to point by rail and no large dacoit band can possibly hold together for any length of time in its neighbourhood. The Shan traders too, will not be slow to recognise the value of the line and our influence over the congeries of States on either side of the Salween river will be increased thereby.
Another railway project in Upper Burma also claims attention. This is the line up the Mu Valley in the Sagain district and thence on northwards through the Shwebo and Yeu country. One survey party starts from the south and works up the Mu; while a second goes from Katha on the Upper Irrawaddy to Manle and prospects for the best crossing point of the range of hills which bounds the Tsawbwaship of Wuntho. It is believed that these hills will offer no serious difficulties and the line will probably run through the southeast corner of Wuntho. The Tsawbwa of that State, to call it so by courtesy, has agreed to furnish supplies to this party which will be escorted by 150 rifles and it is not likely to be molested.
The country to be traversed by this line is perhaps the most fertile tract in Upper Burma. Rice is already freely cultivated; the cotton grow is described as being of the best kind’ while thousands of acres are suitable for wheat and gram. There is rich pasturage too in the southern portion and upon this much stock could be reared. The work of railway construction for the greater part of the distance will be easy, as no large rivers have to be bridged and the line would run through open plains. The natural extensions of this line is northwards to Mogaung with a branch off to Bhamo and this project has already attracted the notice of the local authorities. Some hills would have to be crossed to the north of Katha and the engineers will in due time made a reconnaissance in this direction. If a way be found into the fertile valleys south of Mogaung, a wide field will be opened out to emigration, for these districts have been almost depopulated by war and dacoity during the past ten years. Here, as in the Mu Valley, rice can be largely cultivated and the railway would develop the jade trade beyond Mogaung, one of the most paying industries in the country.
Looking far ahead too, one sees the importance of having rapid communication with Mogaung and Bhamo. At present it is difficult to send reinforcements and supplies so far north as the navigation of the Irrawaddy at certain periods of the year is extremely dangerous up to Bhamo; while the 40 miles of defiles beyond that town made the journey to Mogaung absolutely impossible during the rains and painfully arduous at other time. Any great combination from the side of China or on the part of the savage tribes to the north and west might result in a disaster, particularly in the case of Mogaung where only a few hundred men can be maintained under three or four British officers. If the railway were built to this, our furthest outpost, with a branch line to Bhamo, the safety of the position in the north would be absolutely assured and we should hear no more of tribal risings in this quarter. The My Valley Railway is likely to be taken in hand immediately the surveys have been completed; we should like to see work begun at the same time on the northern section from some point near Manle.
The Pioneer writes as follows about the opening of the Tounghoo-Mandalay line:-
The Tounghoo-Mandalay Railway, a line of the greatest importance both commercially and strategically, will probably be opened by the middle of February and the tranquillising effect upon the eastern districts will unquestionable be very great. The Burmans will realise how rapidly troops can be moved from point to point by rail and no large dacoit band can possibly hold together for any length of time in its neighbourhood. The Shan traders too, will not be slow to recognise the value of the line and our influence over the congeries of States on either side of the Salween river will be increased thereby.
Another railway project in Upper Burma also claims attention. This is the line up the Mu Valley in the Sagain district and thence on northwards through the Shwebo and Yeu country. One survey party starts from the south and works up the Mu; while a second goes from Katha on the Upper Irrawaddy to Manle and prospects for the best crossing point of the range of hills which bounds the Tsawbwaship of Wuntho. It is believed that these hills will offer no serious difficulties and the line will probably run through the southeast corner of Wuntho. The Tsawbwa of that State, to call it so by courtesy, has agreed to furnish supplies to this party which will be escorted by 150 rifles and it is not likely to be molested.
The country to be traversed by this line is perhaps the most fertile tract in Upper Burma. Rice is already freely cultivated; the cotton grow is described as being of the best kind’ while thousands of acres are suitable for wheat and gram. There is rich pasturage too in the southern portion and upon this much stock could be reared. The work of railway construction for the greater part of the distance will be easy, as no large rivers have to be bridged and the line would run through open plains. The natural extensions of this line is northwards to Mogaung with a branch off to Bhamo and this project has already attracted the notice of the local authorities. Some hills would have to be crossed to the north of Katha and the engineers will in due time made a reconnaissance in this direction. If a way be found into the fertile valleys south of Mogaung, a wide field will be opened out to emigration, for these districts have been almost depopulated by war and dacoity during the past ten years. Here, as in the Mu Valley, rice can be largely cultivated and the railway would develop the jade trade beyond Mogaung, one of the most paying industries in the country.
Looking far ahead too, one sees the importance of having rapid communication with Mogaung and Bhamo. At present it is difficult to send reinforcements and supplies so far north as the navigation of the Irrawaddy at certain periods of the year is extremely dangerous up to Bhamo; while the 40 miles of defiles beyond that town made the journey to Mogaung absolutely impossible during the rains and painfully arduous at other time. Any great combination from the side of China or on the part of the savage tribes to the north and west might result in a disaster, particularly in the case of Mogaung where only a few hundred men can be maintained under three or four British officers. If the railway were built to this, our furthest outpost, with a branch line to Bhamo, the safety of the position in the north would be absolutely assured and we should hear no more of tribal risings in this quarter. The My Valley Railway is likely to be taken in hand immediately the surveys have been completed; we should like to see work begun at the same time on the northern section from some point near Manle.