couched in terms so decisive as to the danger which Mr Mercer would incur by remaining here during another Summer that there was no alternative but for Mr Mercer to request leave of absence to return to England.
Enclosure 2 was accordingly given on the 29th Ultimo and Mr Mercer will take his departure by the next T.&O. Mail Steamer on the 13th Instant.
No definite period of leave has been granted, as Mr Mercer has already requested permission to retire on a pension (Vide Governor to Secretary of State No 196, 28th January 1867).
It must rest with Your Grace, on the arrival of Your despatch regarding Mr Mercer in England, to deal with the exceptional circumstances of his case.
I have the honor to be,
May it please Your Grace,
most Obedient,
Your Grace's humble Servant,
Richard Graves MacDonnell,
Governor.
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