Holmes to Cardwell

Since the interview you honored me with I have carefully
considered your offer of the appointment of Registrar of the Supreme
Court of British Columbia.

My circumstances are such, that it would be an injustice to
those dependant on me were I to refuse the appointment you propose.
At the same time I fear that the Salary attached to it would, in such
a very expensive place as British Columbia, be inadequate to the
support of my wife and children.

I would therefore most respectfully submit that if possible you
would further extend your kindness by transferring me to some other
less expensive Colony where I should be enabled to struggle on with
some hope of success.

If such cannot be, in any case I would beg that an early
application be made in the usual form to the War Office for my being
placed on the seconded list as my Military Leave
expires on the 31st of this month—a very few days more—with
I fear no hope of further extension.

By the death of Col. Sim R.E. an appointment has become vacant
in Ceylon similar to the one I lately held in British Columbia, the
arduous duties of which I performed to the entire satisfaction of the
Government.

I need not say how urgently I would strive to merit your
approbation and that of the local Government should you honor me with
the distinguished position of Surveyor General in Ceylon.