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15
represent the fact, as many of them have to
be done twice or three time over, sometimes
years afterwards, so that about double that number
would be a fair average; and as the injuries to the
Gas and Water Mains and Service Pipes are
constantly caused by the very heavy and continuous
traffic, it follows, that the openings are in the
busiest places, and that much promptitude and care
is required to prevent accidents, which I am happy
to report we have been hitherto free from. I
mention this subject because it is one that escapes
notice, and appears a trivial matter, but is really
of the greatest importance, and the consequences
of neglect would be immediately and, probably,
severely felt.
There observations apply in a modified form to
those openings made good for private individuals,
the difference being that these works are generally
after the removal of hoardings, &c., and being
pressing, and do not require attention more than
once. The cause of the openings made by the Gas
and Water Companies being of so much more
importance, is that they (the Companies) are
empowered by law to disturb the paving in many
instances without giving any previous notice, so
that when they send the notice afterwards, there is