Dear Sir O'Brien,
I am at present home on leave; and as I have been hitherto unsuccessful in obtaining an increase of salary, I am now addressing an Application to the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies. Mr Kuces, of the Colonial Office, advised me to do this, passing it as the best way of getting my questions settled while I am here, and I should be greatly obliged if you can set your hand to it.
In May last year I sent an application to Mr Corfer, which he forwarded with commendation in my favour, but as he also recommended increases to a number of others in the Dept, the whole scheme was rejected & unfortunately no exceptions were made in my case. I should mention that several of those recommended, such as Mr Torker to Mr Gook, had formerly obtained considerable increases of salary & probably that fact contributed to the rejection of the scheme.
I enclose a copy of my application & trust you will be able to support it. I am causing you much trouble.
I hope you are enjoying better health in Hongkong.
With kind regard.
From my residence in Edinburgh, 25th July 1878.