War
Land I
Mi
Sea
illness
would lend very much to renew my whilst of health, though I should be forced to travel leisurely through the United States, it
would lend to reenvigorate my health.
In order to avoid the equinoctial gales on the Atlantic, I sought to sail from England not later than the 10th of September next: but I greatly fear that I may not be able to leave so soon, in which case I sought not to start until the middle of October next, when there gales will have abated.
Under these circumstances, I respectfully ask that my leave of absence may be extended until the 1st day of January next, on the condition that my half salary shall cease from the 10th of November next until my arrival in the Colony, which shall be as long before that day as, having regard to my health, will be practicable.
Family arrangements require my going by tomorrow's steamer to Germany. I hope to return on Monday next.
I have the honor to be,
Sir,
Your very obedient Servant,
John Smale
Chief Justice of Hong Kong