Shanghai Fire Department, Shanghai, 7th May, 1889.
Sim,—In reply to your letter of the 25th ulto., regarding the purchase of the Steam Fire' Engine "Victoria," 1 am directed to hand you the accompanying report from the Chief Engineer and members of the Fire Commission, from which you will gather that the acquisition of the engine is strongly recommended.
The price of the engine, with all necessary appurtenances, as per inventory herewith, is 500.
addition to the engine there are two hose reels and 800 feet of hose which it would also be necessary to purchase. The hose reels cost Tls. 673, and would be sold for one-third legs than the original cost, and the hose to be taken over at a fair valuation, Tam Your obedient servant, 3. A. Po: secretary, Fire Commission, R. F, Tuorsuns, Esy., Secretary Municipal Council.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.