(
33467
A
7--0
honour about which I feel so strongly. The fact that I am held
to have caused by my negligence a loss to the Colony of $1500 is a stigma upon my character, a stain upon the unsullied record that I hope to leave behind me, which I feel that I do not deserve, and an assured will be removed as soon as both sides of
my case have been heard.
230
10. In order that this may be done, I submit that I
may be informed of the specific charges against me; that these
charges be made the subject of a public enquiry; and that I be heard in answer to such charges before such public enquiry, after having been allowed access to the official papers on the subject.
11. I have already applied for an extension of my
leave for three months, but so anxious am I for an opportunity
to justify my conduct that I am prepared to forego that extension
and the benefit to my health that I hope will result therefrom,
and return to Hongkong at once, if necessary, for the purpose.
I have the honour to be
Sir,
your obedient servant
Bund Gage
Commander R.N.
Harbour Master &c:
(Hongkong.