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8
which is unfit for drinking. The eistern is placed over the
water-closet. In many instances there is no cover, or the lid
is removed, and the water is exposed to the sun's rays.
The cistern is placed over the water-closet with (as I have
seen sometimes the case) an untrapped waste pipe blowing
sewer gas over the surface of the water.
On the surface of the water may be seen green scum, the
sides of the cistern covered with slime, and the bottom of the
cistern loaded with mud, consisting of earthy and decomposing
organic matter, and containing an abundant supply of
dead and living animalcules; and in many cases no information
can be obtained of their having been cleansed.
Now, the connection between tainted water and cholera
was fully established during the last epidemic; but although,
except in epidemic times, we are not to look for such fatal
results as then occurred, still, poisons of this kind contained
in water are introduced into the system in such a subtle form,
and in a condition which renders them so easily absorbed
into the body, and in such an unobserved manner, that people
are rendered ailing and miserable, and fit for the reception of
any disorder; and it becomes an important duty to endeavour
to get a supply as pure as possible.
The only way in which to secure this effectually is by
having a constant supply afforded without cisterns and with
such apparatus (a spring tap would probably suffice) as would
tend to prevent waste. This would not only improve the
health but the morals of the people, as a supply of impure
water tends to disgust the poorer class of people, and induces
them to resort to less disagreeable beverages.
Drinking fountains in various parts of the district,
supplying pure filtered water, would also be a valuable
addition to the comfort and health of the inhabitants,
especially in the summer time.
I860.— In my first report to the Board of Works, dated
anuaiy, 1850, and in the last published report for the year
1864, as well as at other times, T directed your attention to
importance of a supply of pure water.