202
Tutore
My dear M. Mercer,
You are aware that on the eve of your departure from Hong Kong, the Chinese Community, through one of their leaders, expressed their desire to be allowed to present you with some souvenir from themselves and as a testimonial of their high appreciation of your long and valuable service in the Colony. Your answer was to the effect that the rules of the Service to which you still belonged would not admit of your acceptance of the proffered distinction.
You will further remember that the Chinese Gentlemen then presented you with an Address, and at the same time expressed their regret at not being able to carry out their wish of handing you something of greater intrinsic worth, which might have been an heirloom in your family.
However, very shortly after the news of your retirement from the Service had been made known, the Chinese circulated a subscription for a testimonial to you, which I have learnt, and which has assumed the form of a Silver Tripod. Within the last fortnight, I have heard of its arrival in England, and I shall be glad to learn from you that the Treasury will allow the remission of the heavy duty which is levied on Foreign Imported Silver, and which will otherwise have to be paid in this case.
I may add that there is an inscription in English and Chinese on the Tripod.
I am, my dear Mr Mercer,
Yours very sincerely,
(Signed) A. C. Smith
Civil Service Club
St. James'
21st Feb 1889