271
down. I think that this interpretation of the Regulation is
reasonable for it is palpable that the effects of residence
in the tropics are not removed by transfer from one tropical
Colony to another.
3. The point is also important in its bearing
upon the transfer of officers from one Colony to another as
if the regulation be interpreted as suggested in the paragraph
in question it would be a matter of grave consideration whe-
ther even an offer of promotion should be accepted that would
involve the abandonment of acquired privilege of half pay
leave. I hope to find that the interpretation of the regulation
hitherto assumed in every Colony administered by me has been
accepted. In the meantime I propose to grant to Sir J. Carring-
ton the leave for which he has applied subject to an intima-
tion from you by telegraph that it is refused.
4. I find that the leave granted to Mr. Gompertz
on 3rd.March, 1898, and reported in Governor's despatch No.56
8801
of 4th.March, was granted on this assumption, and that in the
certificate attached the words * 'Straits Settlements" were sub-
stituted for that of Colony",
I have the honour to be,
sir,
Your most obedient
Humble Servant,
Henry arabe
GOVERNOR, &C.