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10
Infant Mortality.
The figure obtained under this heading is regarded as a
valuable index of the sanitary conditions of a district. Furthermore,
as it is based on ascertained facts (i.e., the actual numbers of
births and infant deaths), it is more reliable than the death-rate
which is calculated on an estimated population.
The rate for 1923 is 54 89 per 1,000 births. The rates for
England and Wales and for London during the same period were
69 and 60 respectively.
The infantile mortality figure, 54 9, is the lowest in the history
of the district. Less than 15 years ago, one Medical Officer who
ventured to hold up an infantile mortality of 60 per 1,000 as the
goal to be aimed at, a goal unbelievable, and undreamt of, was
looked upon as a visionary and a dreamer. Of a truth " Peace
hath its victories."

SANITARY CIRCUMSTANCES.
Water Supply.
There were, as far as is known, at the end of the year 42
private wells from which the water was used for domestic purposes.
In nine other cases there are wells, but an alternative supply
from the main exists for domestic purposes.
In 108 instances draw-taps were placed on the main to the
bouse, in compliance with notice from the Health Department, in
lieu of a supply drawn from an inaccessible and uncoverd cistern.
Drainage and Sewerage.
The sewerage of almost the whole district is arranged on the
" separate " system.