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there were 9 deaths from diarrhœa, 2 from Typhus, 1 from scarlatina
and 1 from whooping cough, the corrected average was 31. The
births were 39.
In the week succeeding that which terminated on August 31st,
the deaths were 24, the corrected average being 33. Diarrhœa was
fatal in 7 instances, whooping cough and scarlatina each in 1 case.
The births were 31. In the first week of the present month, the
deaths numbered 27; the corrected average being 33; diarrhœa was
fatal in 6 cases, scarlatina and typhus each in 4. The births were
47. I have inspected the several slaughter houses within the Parish,
and beg to hand in for the consideration of the Vestry my reports
upon them. I may here state that, year by year, I observe a marked
improvement, as well as an evident and wholesome anxiety on the
part of the owners to merit a favorable notice.
I have had considerable trouble and anxiety in reference to the
salvage from the late fire at Cotton's wharf; a very large quantity
of various "bread stuffs" having been deposited in Wyld's
rents. It appeared to me, that the damaged flour, rice, sago, &c.
&c. could not be sold as human food, without great risk to health
and to life. I remonstrated accordingly, and lodged with Messrs.
Toplis and Harding a formal notice, which I personally delivered.
These premises are now also a serious and very offensive nuisance,
independent of any that may arise from the various vegetable
products rescued from the fire in a partially consumed condition.
The pits are filled with various liquors, in a putrescent condition,
giving off sulphurretted hydrogen to a great extent, and are exercising
a most pernicious effect upon the health of the surrounding neighbourhood.
This is being remedied, but I regret to state in a very
sluggish and inefficient manner, as there are six or seven pits only
which have been filled, and there are about a hundred which are as
bad as so many open cesspools.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
JOHN CHALLICE, M.D.
Officer of Health.