COPY.
Sir,
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370
TRESS Hongkong, August 4th, 1904.
I have to acknowledge the courtesy of the Government in allowing me to see the Despatch of the Secretary of State with reference to my application for house allowance. In my application of April 18th, 1904, I asked that the house allowance be granted me during the time I act in this post. The Secretary of State says he is "willing to approve Dr. Koch's drawing the allowance as a temporary measure while he is acting in this particular post". This decision you conveyed to me on July 19th, 1904, and forwarded me a cheque for the full amount as from September 2nd, 1903, to the 23rd July, however, you informed me that the allowance was to be paid only as from July 1st, 1904, and asked me to return the cheque. I refunded the money within two or three days. I respectfully submit that this decision is contrary to the decision of the Secretary of State who has authorised that the allowance be granted me during the whole time I act, and not only for a limited period. I therefore respectfully apply that the arrears be paid me as from September 2nd, 1903, to June 30th, 1904.
I have etc.,
(sd.) W. V. K. Koch.
Honourable
The Principal Civil Medical Officer.