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In the estimates for the running expenses of the departments during the current year, which have been carefully scrutinized, a marked improvement towards modesty of demand is apparent ; yet in nearly all cases larger appropriations are asked for, aggregating much more than the tax levy can meet. The heads of departments, to whom during the past year I am indebted for most loyal co-operation in serving the City, are entitled to at least a word of appreciation; but this year they must do even better, experience assisting the effort, so that at the end they will earn still further commendation. It was fortunate that in the appropriation bill we carried a liberal amount to reserve. The rise in the price of food and coal for City institutions, with resulting deficits, as well as other emergent calls upon the treasury, will probably be met by the fund, but could not well be met otherwise. My judgment is that when a corporation has $16,000,000 or more to appropriate a factor of safety is a reserve fund of not less than $300,000 to meet contingencies. My purpose now is not to cover the whole ground of Municipal activity or discuss all problems, but merely to deal suggestively with what seems most important and pressing. Whenever it may seem necessary or advisable it will be my duty to supplement this message by communications relating to special subjects or details of administration.

We are all charged by our constituents to serve the City—not ourselves. It is a contract of our own making. A summons to serve a City like Boston is a proud distinction, and an honor to be cherished by our children and kindred.

May I ask you through the year to co-operate with me in serving the whole City according to our best lights and understanding 7

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A PP E N D IX.

EXHIBIT I.

CITY AND COUNTY DEBT.

Gross funded debt, December 31, 1901 . . $79,876,172 28
Add funded debt issued in 1902 . so * 7,706,551 00
$87,582,723 28
Deduct funded debt paid in 1902 . © o 4,468,717 28
Gross debt, December 31, 1902 . e . $83,114,006 00
Sinking Funds, December
31, 1901 e e . $30,371,112 65
Receipts during 1902 e 2,983,146 03

$33,354,258 68 Payments during 1902 • 4,507,161 91

$28,847,096 77 Betterments, etc., the payments of which are pledged to the payment of debt: Betterments, etc. . . $947,656 94 Sidewalk assessments, Ch. 4 37, A c t s of 1893 . . 648 57 Blue Hill and Other Avenue S, as

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Net debt, December 31, 1902 © * . $52,823,884 36

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