Urgent.
The C. O.
28301 Put 4 AUG 08,
Copy
It Hamilton Place.
Aberdeen. N.B.
1st August 1908.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter No 29690/1908, with enclosed telegram from His Excellency the Governor of Hongkong. I regret the decision of the Government of Hongkong that my agreement will very probably not be renewed at its expiration.
Needless to say, the uncertainty as regards the tenure of my appointment - one not yet on the permanent Establishment - seriously interferes with arrangements for my return to Hongkong at the expiration of my present leave.
I feel that my return to Hongkong for a period of further service not exceeding 15 months, with the uncertainty of permanent employment under the Government of Hongkong, would not only necessitate considerable monetary outlay, but also be impossible for me as a married man with family.
I would, therefore, respectfully request reconsideration of the decision by the Secretary of State for the Colonies.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
William Hunter.