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6
Scarlet and Relapsing Fevers.
I presentd a special Report to the Vestry in
November last upon these epidemics, although it is very
doubtful whether a single case of relapsing fever occurred"
in this Hamlet. Scarlet fever was at the time
very prevalent and fatal, but has gradually abated since
December; there are, however, signs of a return of this
prolonged and fatal epidemic, which, I repeat, can only
be suppressed by such stringent measures, that it would
be difficult to obtain authority for their adoption; yet
how much more humane and charitable to terminate the
pestilence by effectual measures, than to encourage its
prolongation by mere temporising measures, which
ensure little ultimate good. All that I have hitherto
said as to the causes and spread of this disease has been
confirmed by subsequent experience.
Artizans' and Labourers' Dwellings' Act.
This Act has been enforced in the case of 10
houses in Eaton Place, Whitehorse Lane; structural
alterations', as recommended by the Surveyor, being
carried out, based upon my Report at the end of the
previous year. 141 new houses were built in the
Hamlet during the year ending March, 1870.
Workshops' Regulations' Act.
Several instances of infringement of this Act have
been brought under my notice. The provisions of the
Act were explained to the principals of the establishments,
who expressed every desire to comply therewith.
Printed instructions, explanatory of the requirements
of the Act, were left at each establishment, for the
information of the work-people.
At an interview with the Government Inspector
of Factories, he expressed to me his opinion that the
local authority had no power to enter premises under
this Act, unless formal complaint were made.