I beg to offer the following remark.
The last attendance of the Major General Commanding the Troops was on the 5th October 1874.
I have been advised by the Acting General that the proceedings would be invalidated by my absence.
On occasions of the Major General's temporary absences from Hong Kong, the "Assistant or Officer for the time being Commanding the troops" complies with the Summons.
It is felt by myself and the members of my Council, that this undignified position which we are placed, and (as in the recent past) injurious to the public service, we therefore pray Your Lordships to be relieved from it in any way You may deem fit.