HONG KONG . 
235 
already one of the most flourishing of our colonies 
in the East, and destined to still further extension 
and greater importance. It has become the postal 
terminus of the many lines of mail-steamers that 
arrive weekly from Europe and America, and now, 
with submarine telegraph, is in instant communica- 
tion with every place of importance. 
Victoria, the chief town, is situated along the 
northern shore of the island, with its magnificent 
harbour stretching out in front, and backed up with 
mountainous land, culminating in Peak Victoria, 
1200 feet above the level of the sea, and stretching 
along the length and breadth of the city, shutting 
out the invigorating breeze for half the year, and 
causing it to be one of the most unhealthy of our 
colonial possessions. It is laid out with fine streets, 
and its hillside is crowded with villa residences of 
the wealthy traders and merchants. 
The Chinese population, who are ever alive when 
an opening occurs for trade, have come here in 
swarms from the main-land, and made this once 
almost barren rock their home, building a town of 
their own, which skirts the bay and scrambles 
upward and onward over the hill behind. 
The cathedral, Government House, clubs, and 
public buildings are splendid specimens of archi- 
tecture, and thus exemplify the energy and industry 
of the Anglo-Saxon race. What other race would 
think of placing house and home in such a locality ? 
