Page:The Manchester and Thirlmere Scheme - Somervell (1878).djvu/7

 fact that, whether with a profitable result or not, the Corporation was, several years ago, acting far more as a great Water Company than as a Board of Health.

There is no doubt that at the present time this is still more decidedly their position, and that any increase to present supplies will lead them still further in the same direction.

In a report dated June, 1875, Mr. J. F. Bateman, the Engineer, says "The foregoing facts shew that the great increase, both for domestic and trade supply, is taking place outside the City, and it is these districts which not only help the Corporation to pay the costs of the undertakings, but it is there that the surplus profit is made."

In the year 1874 they, had already provided an ample supply of excellent water for their own city, and for the neighbouring borough of Salford. In addition to this, they have voluntarily undertaken to supply various townships and villages, some ten, twelve, and fourteen miles distant. Figures taken from their official reports, show the proportion of revenue received for the different services.