2. I am accordingly to enquire whether you can suggest to the Earl of Crewe the names of preferably two or three suitable candidates for this appointment; or whether you think that it would be better to advertise as was done in 1899 and 1902.
3. In the latter case, I am to ask whether you would be so good as to assist the Earl of Crewe by allowing applications in answer to the advertisement to be addressed to you, and by selecting the most suitable of the applicants.
4. A paper of particulars relating to this post is enclosed. I am to explain that if at the end of the three years for which the officer will be engaged in the first instance he wishes to leave the further service & to return to this country, he will be provided with a free return passage; but if he is retained and his service has been satisfactory, he will be placed on the permanent establishment, and become entitled to leave, pension etc., on the same terms as other permanent Government servants. The salary is then subject to a deduction of 4% as a contribution to the Widows and Orphans Pension Fund.
5. For the purpose of payment in the Colony the salary of the post will be converted into dollars at a rate of exchange fixed by the Colonial Government, and based upon the average exchange value of the dollar during the previous month as shown in the enclosed print. Living in Hong Kong is more expensive than in this country.
6. It is to be understood that Candidates should be given to understand that he is desirous of remaining in the Government service, and his service has been satisfactory.
I am, etc.,
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