J. Bruce to the Duke of Newcastle
282. The ceders of the Governor of Hongkong for certain purposes who are consular Officers immediately connected with a different Department.
8. As, however, on economical grounds, no other arrangement appears to have been practicable, I trust that the inconvenience which might be apprehended under ordinary circumstances from such divided allegiance may not occur, and I have to signify my readiness to undertake the new duty of superintending the China, Japan Post Offices, as I presume such to be the wish of Her Majesty's Government.
9. Your Grace will also observe that Major Mitchell and I recommend that the Colony should receive a sum of £1,270 per annum for maintaining the several Agencies under their supervision.
10. As, however, the question of fixed remuneration to Mr. Mitchell himself for increased trouble and responsibility, especially in connection with the proposed Order system, could not well enter into the enclosed Report, I thought it right to consult Mr. Rea on that point, and I enclose his reply. Mr. Rea, in that reply, whilst fully admitting the propriety of making allowance to Mr. Mitchell and anticipating the willingness of His Grace the Postmaster General to grant whatever sum I think...