TWENTY-FOURTH ANNUAL REPORT 91 
all restaurant business of this class was so extremely difficult 
and unprofitable that the net result for the year showed a loss 
that had to be absorbed by other more profitable divisions of the 
Privileges. An earnest effort was made to maintain the stand- 
ard of service without the proportional increase in prices that 
have been made in downtown restaurants. Another season our 
prices will have to be advanced considerably if the present con- 
ditions continue, or we must be prepared to assume a further 
loss. 
Boating.—The boating receipts for the season made a very 
satisfactory gain over last year, particularly the receipts for 
the rental of row boats. A considerable sum had to be expended 
in the repair of boats, which was continued through the winter 
by some of our regular force. In addition to this, it was found 
necessary to replace some of our oldest equipment by the pur- 
chase of a carload of standard steel boats. These were delivered 
early in the season. 
Our electric launches were given a much-needed overhaul- 
ing by a carpenter and now are in very good condition. They 
gave good service throughout the season. 
The two small cashier and refreshment booths on the dock 
are inadequate for the increased requirements, and another 
larger booth is being constructed to be ready for use at the be- 
ginning of next season. 
Boat House Restaurant.—The results in the operation of the 
Boat-House Restaurant during 1919 were disappointing. The 
kitchen was again closed during the winter and service restricted 
to the lunch room; and every possible effort made to reduce 
the operating expenses. In spite of all our efforts, however, a 
considerable loss in this branch had to be assumed by the boat- 
ing business. 
Soda Water.—There was a continuation of difficulties at- 
tendant upon this branch of the Privileges for the past several 
years. While most of the restrictions in force during the war 
were removed, prices of all commodities entering into the busi- 
ness were continually increased. Deliveries were difficult, and 
good help was almost impossible to obtain for the short season 
of employment that we can offer. Our policy of pushing the 
plain drinks and simplifying the service made necessary for 
