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than the preceding year, which was about 1,000 tons higher than the
year ending March, 1898. This may be accounted for in several ways,
but before any cause is suggested further observation will be taken.
PLANT.
Yonr plant has been well maintained, extensive repairs being
necessary in many cases, and the following new plant have been
constructed:—Two slop vans, one stone cart, three watch boxes, and
one large tool box.
STREET WASHING AND COURT FLUSHING.
Towards the end of the year the Vestry decided to make
arrangements for washing the wood paving in Borough High Street,
from the northern boundary to Marshalsea road, also the courts
abutting upon this street. The details of this work are now well
in hand, and it is hoped to make an early start with this work.
CONVENIENCES.
Ladies' Convenience behind the Free Library. The work of
constructing this convenience was carried out by Messrs. Smith and
Son; it was completed and opened to the public in June. The contract
amount for this work was £363, and the actual cost £360 13s.4d.
At the Convenience in Old Kent Road a screw-down valve has
been provided to cut off the sewer in time of heavy rain, as the
Council's sewer there is quickly filled and Hooding has in several
cases resulted. The whole of the conveniences have been fitted with
grills over the top, this was found necessary to prevent the places
being broken into during the time the attendants were off duty.
The Mortuary has during the year had a fair amount of repairs
and improvements carried out, the old paving has been taken out and
the floor has been now paved with a granolithic pavement, provision
has also been made for supplying hot water, and the place has been
cleaned and re-painted.
PUBLIC GARDENS.
The work of laying out the Paragon and Portland Place Gardens
was completed and they were opened in June, 1899. The work of planting
and laying-out generally were carried out by the Metropolitan
Public Gardens Association, and the Vestry provided Railings, Gates,