The 17th at May &
This not only commits a departure from well-established precedents but also appears to me inequitable. I have to appeal to you against it.
The mere fact that during the period prior to my departure from England, I failed to submit a sufficient return, charging Income Tax for it, is not a sufficient reason to charge me. Some time before leaving for the Continent on home leave, I could have had my salary for April remitted to me there, but relied upon the usual practice being followed.
I consider it a hardship that after incurring the great expense involved in paying a visit to England, purportedly for health, I should be charged Income Tax upon the salary due to me for the period covered by my leave at home. I would respectfully ask that I be granted relief from such payment on the grounds that the system adopted in previous sessions, to which I have already referred, be adhered to.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
W. Chatham