23rd month 1857,
Commencing a tour of duty in May next, and consequently, to be at my post within that time, I should have to leave by outgoing mail of 4th October now.
The indulgence sought for would, if granted, allow time for my health to be so far recovered that I might reasonably look forward to a long period of service in China, before again requiring a change, should I have to leave so soon as October. In addition, I refrain from mentioning circumstances of a domestic nature, that, I am satisfied, would be sufficient to obtain for me your favourable consideration.
I take the liberty of stating that eighteen months is the usual leave granted by the Colonial Department for China and that it is customary to grant an additional six months at home, should such be applied for.
M. Chapman.
H.M.S. Hongkong.