I have to inform you that Capt. W. M. Watkins, Harbour Master and Marine Magistrate, has represented that the state of his health is such as to preclude his return to Hong Kong, and that the resignation of his Office having been tendered has been duly accepted. I do not feel that I can properly
4 in this dept. of the 18 May, pod to consider the rearrangement of the Office: but that he cannot proceed without a positive statement as to Mr. Mitchell's intentions. What we know at present is only derived from the report of the Col. Sec. to the Governor, & not endorsed by him.
In writing to the Governor I think he ought to be asked how it has happened that though the S. Gov. recommended that Capt. W. should be relieved from the Office of Marine Magistrate - which was sanctioned by the S. of State - that that measure was not carried into effect; and why it was not reported to this office. We have been under the persuasion that Capt... was the only Harbour Master; and it was quite erroneous when he mentioned personally to me... This want of correct information on report from the Gov- might have led to Mr. Mitchell's resignation.
Accept this resignation; adding to his application pro the repaying subscriptions, & for a compensation submitted to the Treasury. "They should entertain these requests" Wait till production of customary documents of service regarding by the Govt.
Apprize the Gov of this resignation, ending with the rest of Mitchell's retirement. The S. of State would be led into some mistake.
3 June.
An Hon. Judge
1 Sir J. Bowring
MILUTE
BB
1858 JUNE
534 H. Koren
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