Page:Twentieth Century Impressions of Hongkong, Shanghai, and other Treaty Ports of China.djvu/819



a Council composed of the heads of the several administrative departments, under the personal supervision of the Governor, and three civil members—the first nominated by the Governor, the second chosen from among the members of non-Chinese firms, and the third representing tax-payers paying at least $50 ground-tax, without distinction of nationality. Special committees are appointed to deal with questions concerning public-house licences, land-tax, church and school matters, and poor relief. The land question has received special attention, the object of the administration being to give security of tenure to settlers, and to oppose mere land speculation. The revenue of the colony for 1907 was about 1,542,700 marks, and the treasury contribution was about 11,600,000 marks. The revenue for 1908 was estimated at 1,725,800 marks, and the treasury contribution was fixed at 10,601,600 marks.

Tsingtau offers excellent facilities for the handling of cargo. A large harbour, enclosed by breakwaters, was begun in 1899, and the first pier was opened to the public on March 6, 1904. Dredging was carried out on an extensive scale, and accommodation is now available for the largest ships. The wharves and piers are in direct connection with the railway, so that vessels lying alongside may discharge or receive their cargo with a minimum of handling. A large dry dock, capable of receiving the largest class of vessels trading in Eastern waters, was opened in October, 1905.

The construction of the Shantung Railway was begun in October, 1899, Prince Henry