Any way the folks at VisaHQ can send the passport to your address in Hong Kong? If you have a month there that might be a good option. It is also possible that your passport would get there faster than you (FedEx can work wonders).
This may actually be the safest and most cost effective way to go. Once in HKG, I have about 2 1/2 weeks before making my run to MSQ.
Thanks.