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as a consequence, I am reluctantly compelled to reduce by about one third my present staff of assistants.
I may state that on giving Mr Chatham notice, my recommendation to him, after careful consideration of the matter, was that he should seek some municipal, or county council appointment, my belief being that he was well qualified to hold such appointment.
Mr Chatham's experience whilst with me has been very varied. He has been at all times most attentive to his work, his character is excellent and owing to his habits of strict sobriety and steadiness I entertain no doubts respecting his ability to stand the climate of Hong Kong.
Personally and socially I consider that Mr. Chatham is fully qualified to hold the appointment under consideration and I know of no disqualifications.
May I add that, should I later have occasion to fill the vacancy which will occur in my office owing to Mr Chatham's departure, I expect to be able to do so only with difficulty.
Should you wish to see Mr. Chatham I will make arrangements for his calling upon you in town on any day you may name.
Dear Sir, Yours faithfully
J. Ward Girdlestone