Sir,
Hongkong, 28th March, 1860
Having been directed to assume the duties of Acting Chief Magistrate on the departure of Mr Mitchell, I have the honor to request that you will lay before His Excellency the Governor my application to be confirmed in that office, should Her Majesty's Government not appoint a professional person as Chief Magistrate, and Mr Mitchell's state of health prevent his return to this Colony.
I beg to state that I rest my claim to be appointed in the event of the double contingency mentioned above on my length...
[To] Hercules Robinson, Governor, from Duke of Newcastle.
Hongkong, 28 March, 1860
Received
Inclosure.
N38
Forwarding application from Mr Alexander to be eventually confirmed Office of Chief Magistrate
The Honorable
M. I. Mercer, Colonial Secretary