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(And 1854; this letter Mr. Mercer has undertaken to acknowledge, and enclose a copy of his reply to it. My Despatch N. 37, of 18th February last, in reply to yours N: 8 of 28th November, concerns the same subject, and I hope this still unaccountable error will be rectified before long.
The deplorable condition of body, and apparently of mind, in which Mr. Rienecker left Hongkong makes it doubtful if he will ever recover sufficiently to resume his duties here, and I think it right to advise you to this effect, so that, should the occasion arise, no time may be lost in appointing his successor.
I have the honor to be,
with the highest respect,
Sir
Your most Obedient, Humble Servant,