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17
. In the Tilbury Docks the steam ship "Chimborazo" was fitted up, but,
fortunately, she also was not required.
Bunks were provided for 57 men, allowing for each 32.5 square feet and
260 cubic feet per head.
As far as practicable the same arrangements were made in each case, the
amount of cubic space per head in no instance falling below 155 cubic feet
(and this only for a short time during which special arrangements were made
for ventilation), and reaching as high as 475 cubic feet.
It was felt that a grave responsibility rested on your officers if anything
approaching overcrowding were permitted, while at the same time any unfair
restriction would have simply put obstacles in the way of the Federation.
The berths were erected in small blocks, and in such a manner as to allow
of a free circulation of air all round.
The beds and bedding were daily inspected, and renewed at regular intervals,
the old ones being destroyed by fire within the Dock Company's
premises.
Moreover, to guard against the danger of infectious disease the Federation
Committee were advised to appoint a Medical Officer of their own, whose
special duty it should be to visit all the ships and sheds daily, and see all men
reported "sick." This recommendation was at once carried into effect, and
was continued as long as required.
Much of this extra work fell upon your senior Inspector, Spadaccini, and
I have pleasure in calling attention to the earnest and zealous way in
which he carried out this duty, not only by day, but also by night.
TRAINING SHIPS.
Considering the age of the inmates (as especially liable to infectious diseases)
and the condition of the river, the health of these vessels has been exceptionally
good.
One case only of enteric fever has been reported on the "Arethusa," lying
off Greenhithe.
In the absence of any other definite cause the Medical Officer of the ship is
inclined to attribute this case to the filthy state of the river.
It would be hard to prove this, but it is perfectly certain that the present
condition of things is fully sufficient to cause serious ill health.
D