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60
and on the wharves was dissolved by the injection
of steam, at a cost of about 1s. per load. Had the
canal been navigable at this time, and the snow sent
away by boats, it would have cost 2s. 6d. per load.
It would not be prudent to recommend the collection
of snow, only where it becomes absolutely
necessary; under such circumstances, if the snow is
not frozen, and the area for stowage limited, dis*
solving by means of steam (if easily obtainable) is
the most convenient and economical method for
quickly getting rid of it.
Watering.—The dryness of this season compared
with the previous year necessitated an increase in
the number of days' watering. The water vans being
out 135 days. This giving a daily average of 23.82
per day.
Carting Materials.—A considerable increase has
taken place in this department, owing in a great
measure to the wood paving works carried out during
the summer, the total number of horses and carts
employed being 4,356, or a daily average of 1437.
Horses.—The present number of horses is 55, and
they are all in excellent health and condition, the
losses during the twelve months being two only,
viz.:—
On April 10th, 1880.—A grey gelding, No. 20,