before he left that he desired to avail himself of all the leave he could in order to escape Hong Kong summers and that he would therefore like not to return to the Colony till 1st October next year. That would mean an absence of 17 or 18 months which, in view of the fact that he has over a year's resident service, is not only not unreasonable but in his case very desirable as it will thoroughly re-establish his health for the hard work which he will have to undergo on his return.
It is therefore necessary to make a satisfactory arrangement that is possible under the circumstances, and temporarily engage the services of a thoroughly experienced Police Officer. I have no hesitation whatever in stating my conviction that there have been too many amateur Police Officers placed on the Executive Staff of this Force in years gone by. The result has been that the Force has suffered in discipline, smartness, and in the technical instruction of its subordinate officers and constables.
I have therefore to advise that a suitable and capable locum tenen should be found for W. Badeley from about 1st August or as soon after that date as may be, this being assuming that Mr. Corcoran's leave is granted. I have given this subject my most earnest consideration and I strongly recommend that application be made through the Secretary of State for the Colonies to the Inspector General of the Royal Constabulary to second an officer from the Police Force of the rank of District Superintendent to come to Hong Kong and act as Deputy Superintendent of Police and Assistant Superintendent.