this is to Certify that M. &.18. Michell served as Chief Clark under me
Harbour Master and Marine Magistrate at Honghong from the 8 day of August. 1854 to this date. I found Mr Michell possessed of great zeal and intelligence, and intimately acquainted with every detail of his duty; and it is with great pleasure that I bear testimony to his unremitting assiduity. and the efficient assistance I derived from his Knowledge of all the duties of his office,
Ill health, I regret to say, obliges him to go to Europe for change of climate.
(Signed) D. J. Mathins Captain R.N.
Harbor Master & Marine Magistrate Hong Kong 15th March 1855.
Homburg - Frankfort on Maine, 27th August 1855.
My dear Sir,
Your letter with its enclosure only reached me yesterday or it would have been earlier acknowledged -
From the date of this post you will see that it is impossible for me to write to the Colonial Office on the subject which you refer - but this will be of the less importance with such excellent testimonials from Captain Matheson furnished to the Authorities at Hongkong. in the justice of which Sentiments I entirely concur, and which I shall have great pleasure in endorsing should any reference be made to me in respect to your qualifications for the office you desire.
You were acting on separate occasions for Mr. Pedder during the time I was Governor. I was much satisfied with your zeal and ability - that was again shown in that Office
St. Michael's time
and I was so
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