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69
This table is instructive as shewing a steady
rate of increase, for, with the exception of
February and May there was a heavier tonnage
received per month than in the corresponding
periods of 1896. In February the difference
is accounted for by 1896 being Leap Year, and
therefore containing one day more than 1897.
Again, as the month of May commenced on a
Friday, when the quantities are always heavier
than any other day in the week, there were
five Fridays included in the return for 1896 as
against four Fridays in 1897, which alone
would represent a difference of from 1,200 to
1,400 tons.
The unique experience of last year, mentioned
in my Annual Report for 1896 [page 53],
when 4,159 tons passed the weighbridges on
the 21st December, has not been repeated.
Christmas this year being a day later than in
1896, the principal supplies were spread over
three days, Monday, 20th; Tuesday, 21st;
and Wednesday, 22nd; the weights being:—
Dec. 20 3,389 tons.
„ 21 2,206 „
„ 22 2,248 „