21.- That Mr Joseph Thornton has been in the Service of the Colony for Six years.
3rd. That in the course of that Service he has been absent on leave on several occasions, at the dates and for the terms specified below, viz:—
4th. That provision has been made for the due execution of Mr Joseph Thornton's office during his absence by the appointment of Mr. W. Lording
Total period of Service (as above) 6 Years. Aggregate Absences (as above) Period of Resident Service 6 *Maximum Leave grantable 6 Months. Leave already taken Leave now granted.................. 6 Months.(Copy)
Victoria, Hongkong. 26th July, 1862.
Mr Thornton has been more or less under my hands for the last twelve months suffering from the effects of his lengthened residence (over twelve years I understand) in this climate. As the Symptoms of general debility are increasing upon him I have recommended a return to Europe.
(Signed) I. I. Murray, Colonial Surgeon.
(copy)
Wit Alexande Acting Colonial Secretary.
Viz., one-sixth of the Resident Service, plus six months,
Menurut Governor.
NOTE.-Officers who may be under the necessity of applying to the Secretary of State for an extension of their leave of absence, are requested to annex this document to their applications, and in order to meet this contingency, it will be furnished to them in duplicate.