No. 3 Cumberland Terrace, Southampton, 12th Dec. 1872.
My Lord,
I have the honor to make a further application for four months' sick leave of absence from Hongkong to commence from the 7th of February next, when the leave already granted expires. This I am regretfully obliged to do in consequence of my state of health which, owing to the long continued bad weather, has improved very little since I addressed your Lordship on the 8th of June last.
As I am not at present in receipt of salary, and I understand the duties of my office are being efficiently carried on by the gentleman supplying my place, with whom I have made pecuniary arrangements - I apprehend my absence from the Colony for a short time longer will not inconvenience the Government.
I have the honor to be, My Lord, Your Lordship's most obedient and humble servant,
[Signature]
The Right Honorable The Earl of Kimberley, Secretary of State for the Colonies.
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