1788
15 J:107
30
Pur aplir ase
Tologram. The Officer Administering the Government of Hongkong to
the Earl of Elgin.
(Received, Colonial Office 3.10.p.m.14th January, 1907)
Your telegram of 11th instant. I have had a
confidential consultation with the Governor's medical
advisers, Drs. Atkinson and Jordan, and I have received
from them the following written opinion:-
"From the latest information received from
the Governor, we anticipate that he will be able to
resume his duties on his return on the 25th instant
but we consider that he should not overwork himself
as he has done in the past. A change in the Colonial Secretaryship is under these circumstances very undesirable as it would entail extra work on him. We
consider it impolitic to send Lord Elgin's telegram
as we are convinced that it would cause him considerable anxiety as we know that to take leave at present would be entirely opposed to his inclination".
I agree generally in their opinion, and
ask your permission not to forward your Lordship's telegram. In these circumstances, unless you can see
your way to hold it open until after Governor's return, I deem it my duty to decline the appointment, which I should like to accept with thanks because
it is promotion in the line I desire.