I have, therefore, to ask you to submit to his Excellency, the Governor this application for leave of absence for sixteen weeks during Summer so as to include the next Vacation.
The approaching will be my third Summer in Hong Kong Judicial work absolutely prevented my absence even in Vacation for periods exceeding four days in 1867 and eight days in 1868.
Whilst my work has been heavy since I have been Judge beyond former precedent; it is understood in the profession that cases of importance will be brought on for decision before the Vacation.
I therefore respectfully ask that my leave may be extended by four weeks, either with or without Salary.
Notwithstanding the heavy expense I would in such case incur to England, with the certainty I would go I hope that on my return I shall be able for a long time afterwards to take all the Judicial business as I did during all Mr. Panncifoli's absence at his Excellency's request and until last October, and thus I trust that the leave will be beneficial for the public service.