This country. It is quite certain that I had already been serving here for a maximum period of leave allowed by the regulations, but having been granted an extension beyond this term, similar to other Officials who have not had the length of residence in the Colony as myself, I trust that a similar favour will be granted to me.
My experience of Hongkong has been such that no one could have undergone it without suffering. I have suffered from various ailments, including repeated dysentery and other afflictions. Although I do not believe that my health is presently impaired, I must confess that I require some little longer time of rest in England, where I only arrived at the end of last summer.
Having spent nearly seven hot seasons abroad, without a single day's absence from the Island during six of these seasons, I beg to bring these circumstances into consideration. Mr Cardwell will grant me a further term of leave so as to enable me to decide whether the state of my health renders it advisable for me to return to the Colony or resign my appointment.
I am, Sir,
Your Obedient Servant,
J. Sm...