A.—3a

14

Sir, — Rarotonga, 26th November, 1912. Referring to our conversation yesterday on certain matters concerning the Hospital : There is no drainage at any point on the beach; all drains end in sumps dug in the sand and walled with coral. There 'is not sufficient fall to allow of an efficient septic-tank system, and a direct outlet into deep water is not possible except at very large expense. As inside waterclosets are objectionable and a source of danger, it would be a good thing to put them outside the buildings, in an annexe with cross-ventilation where possible, especially the one in the nurse's house, that being on an inside wall and close to the kitchen. There would be an advantage in buying stores in large quantities from New Zealand, but that cannot be done unless adequate store room is provided. I do not think that there would be found any saving in buying coal in large, quantities, as it is very liable to perish in this climate. As regards the Hospital itself, the operating-room is not adequately lighted, but that must be put up with; more storage is required for drugs; and an office would be a convenience. This can be arranged when the laboratory is built, as our present storeroom can be used for the purpose. I have, &c, The Resident Commissioner. G. Pearce Baldwin, CM. and H.O.

Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9l3