Sir,
Downing Street,
31 July 1889.
With reference to my telegram of the instant, I have the honour to inform you that I have selected Mr. Basil R.H. Taylor, late Lieutenant, R.N., for appointment as Assistant Harbor Master, Hong Kong.
I regret that I have been unable to approve the appointment of Mr. Oliver, as he appeared to possess no special knowledge or experience to fit him for the post, either on technical or administrative grounds.
The Crown Agents will be desired to provide Mr. Taylor, on his signing the usual agreement, with a free passage to the Colony by the next steamer leaving this country on the 17th instant.
You will be good enough to give him a formal letter of appointment when he arrives in the Colony, stating that he is appointed on the conditions embodied in his correspondence with this Department, a copy of which is enclosed.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient humble Servant,
The Officer administering the Government of Hong Kong.