Ns.
Sir,
324
Colonial Treasury,
Victoria, Hong Kong,
20th April, 1850.
I have the honour to forward a certificate
from Dr Balfour, my
Medical attendant, and
to request that His Excellency the Governor will thereon grant
me leave of absence for eighteen months, the period allowed, I believe, to the officers of this
Colony.
I have
now served six years
in the
Island with only a short absence in
the summer
of 1847 and feel that my
health would not only
be much benefited by, but absolutely requires, a
visit to a more
bracing Climate.
I have no doubt that fitting arrangements
may
be made for the conduct of my department
The Honourable,
"Colonial Secretary, &c., &c., Va.