§ MR. BLACKsaid, he wished to ask the First Commissioner of Works, If he has received any Tender for building the General Post Office at Edinburgh, and if he has any objection to state what has been the cause of the delay in proceeding with the execution of the plan, and if there is any prospect of its being speedily commenced?
MR. COWPERreplied that about a fortnight ago he had employed an authorized surveyor to take out quantities and make specifications. When that process was completed tenders would be called for. The delay that had arisen was from a desire to combine handsomeness in building with convenience and economy, and he believed the delay had contributed to both objects.