I much regret that through inadvertence I omitted to write on the subjects at an earlier date and I will unofficially convey my apologies to Sir William Robinson.
I beg to tender the resignation of my seat on the Council as it is not my intention to return to Hong Kong unless required by some urgent or unlooked for necessity, and in such case I shall again make my prolonged stay there.
In relinquishing the appointment, which I have for some years filled with so much interest myself, I take advantage of the opportunity now afforded me to say that I follow the affairs of the colony very closely still, and that if at any time a question should arise upon which an expression of opinion from me based on local knowledge might be deemed useful, my services are at any time readily at the disposal of the Council.