Letter: Chief Superintendent of RCs ORC to PMO, ORC
Asking as a special favour if you could allow me to retain the services of Dr Pern at the RC, Bloemfontein. He takes a vast interest in his work and now thoroughly knows all the people. Changes of Doctors are most undesirable. / I might mention that Dr Pern is desirous of obtaining civil employment in this country.
23 February 1901: Reply: Asking if CS of RCs wants to retain him on his present engagement, viz. as civil surgeon in military employment, lent to the camps, or does he want him to be transferred to your payment & released from his [?] engagement. If the latter was sanctioned by PMO Army Dr Pern would forfeit his claim to a gratuity which he may not wish to do.
25 February 1901: Reply: Should like simply to retain Dr Pern on his present engagement. I believe his engagement with the Army terminates next August. It is possible a civil appointment may be offered to him on expiration of his military service.
1 March 1901: Reply: Civil Surgeon Pern can remain in medical charge of RC Bloemfontein on his present engagement. [FSAR, SRC 1/RC162, 22/02/1901]

18/3/1901: Asks for a horse with rations as he is nearly 3 miles out of town; allowed this by the military; 19/3/1901: allowed as he is still paid by the military. 29/4/1901: becomes ill with enteric