COPY.
(Sir,
Enclosure No. 2 to Despatch No. 114 of the 24th March, 1903.
441
H.B.M's Post Office, Shanghai, 31st January, 1902.
I am compelled again to approach you on the subject of the excessive strain placed on my resources, financially, in consequence of being sent here to act as Postmaster whilst Mr Solly is away on leave.
The Treasurer recommended me an allowance but the Governor approved it on condition that my family remained in Hong Kong, but as the upkeep of two establishments was utterly beyond my means I had perforce to bring my family with me.
The cost of living here is much greater than I anticipated. The Winter months necessitated the use of 3 tons of coal monthly for warming the living rooms &c., which means an extra $34 per month. Special woollen underwear and clothing had to be obtained from Home, incurring an outlay of $250. I had to meet bills for medical attendance for self (hurt during the execution of my duties) and illness of all my children, and thereby necessitating the engagement of a house Doctor.
It is no exaggeration to say that I am more than $500 out of pocket already, as you must have noticed several cheques that have passed through the Money Order Office from my step-father.
During the first four months here, I had only my Hong Kong salary of $130 per month.
The stipulated period of one year has further been extended to 18 months, thus tending further to prolong my losses.
I venture again to ask if you will be so good as to recommend my application for His Excellency's reconsideration to grant me that allowance to date from the time I arrived here.
I was forced to come here against my will but nevertheless I have not stinted overtime nor impatiently borne the worries and cares in reorganizing this office, and I trust my humble endeavours have succeeded in placing this Office in a state which is satisfactory to the Government.
It is very disheartening to have to labour under financial crippling whilst carrying out the interests of the department, but I trust His Excellency will, in due consideration, favourably move on my application.
Yours faithfully,
The Postmaster-General, Hong Kong.