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FILE: 1852-01-05_Miller_to_Colonial_Office_V526M01.txt
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Miller to Colonial Office

Observations to accompany the "Picayune" of San Francisco,
of the 1st of January 1852.
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The Payment of a Pound Sterling an Acre for Land on Vancouver's Island, and other Purchase conditions, together with sundry Restrictions
imposed upon British Colonists there (and hence so few of them) appear,
in this part of the World, to be both injurious and hazardous to the
Interests of all Parties concerned, excepting only the Americans.

Might it not be worth while to consider whether, if such a system
be persevered in, it would not, in the end, be likely to lead to
Vancouver's and Queen Charlottes' Islands becoming as Independent of
Great Britain as Java now is?

It seems also very doubtful, if the Proverbially, Harsh and Prying
Discipline pursued by the Hudsons' Bay Companys' Officers, and if
Contracts or Sales of considerable Tracts of Land comprising Sites of
future Commercial Towns and Ports, in favor of one Party, to the
detriment or exclusion of other Parties, can be very durable within a
Stones' throw of Yankee Equality and Yankee Enterprise not very
scrupulous in this distant Region.

American Settlers—whether Squatters or Emigrants—cheerfully
surmount hardships, privations, and all sorts of obstacles, depending
exclusively upon their own exertions, seldom, if ever, applying to their
Consuls or other Authorities for Aid.

It is sadly the reverse with the greater part of British Emigrants
whose spirit of Dependency and want of Energy are too often manifest, at
all events of a large majority of such as touch at or come to the
Sandwich Islands.

The high Price of, and other difficulties in obtaining Land, and
forming Homesteads in our Colonies, destroy Enterprise and too often
engender a very bad feeling towards the Mother Country.

Woahoo

January the 5th 1852



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FILE: 1852-01-09_Earl_Grey_to_Douglas_V527003.txt
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No. 3

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your Predecessor's despatch of
the 30th of August last, reporting that he had provisionally appointed
yourself and Messrs James Cooper and John Todd [Tod] to be Members of
the Council of Vancouver's Island.

As you have been appointed to the Office of Governor and Commander
in Chief in and over that Island, it has appeared to me to be
unnecessary to request the Lord President of the Council to submit your
name to the Queen in Council with a view to your appointment as a Member
of the Council of that Island. But, I have requested the Lord President
to submit to Her Majesty in Council the names of Messrs Cooper and Todd as fit and proper persons to be appointed to seats at that Board;
and Her Majesty having been pleased to approve thereof, I transmit
herewith two Warrants under the Royal Sign Manual, appointing those
Gentlemen respectively to seats in the Council of Vancouver's Island.



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I have to acknowledge Mr Under Secretary Peel's letter of the
20th Ult. transmitting to me a Despatch and its enclosures from
Rear Admiral Moresby to the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty
having reference to the present state of Vancouver's Island.

To the allegations contained in these documents I shall, after
adverting to the different subjects alluded to in Mr Peel's
letter, make such replies as will, I trust, satisfy your
Lordship that you have little cause for uneasiness as far as
those allegations are concerned.

For facility of reference the paragraphs are numbered so as to
correspond with those of Mr Peel's letter.

2. That the colonization of Vancouver's Island has made so
little progress is, I beg to assure your Lordship, as deeply
regretted by the Directors of the Hudson's Bay Company as it can
be by Her Majesty's Government, but they cannot accuse
themselves of having omitted to use every effort in their power
for the colonization and improvement of the Island, which it is
not less their interest than their duty to promote. They have
had to encounter difficulties equally beyond their control and
that of the Government. The derangement of the ordinary course
of events occasioned by the state of things in California has
been a discouragement to persons who might otherwise have
desired to settle at Vancouvers Island, as it was evident that
there could be no confidence placed on hired labourers
fulfilling their engagement. This also operated as an
obstruction to the intentions of the Hudson's Bay Company to
establish cultivation sufficient to secure food for new settlers
on their arrival. They have been obliged to import at high
prices flour and other provisions for their own establishment,
and for the support of the large number of agricultural
labourers which they and the Puget Sound Company have sent from
this country to commence cultivation in order to test the
capability of the Island and encourage its settlement. The
result of this measure has yet to be ascertained, though they
trust it may be successful. It is the intention of both the
Puget Sound Company and the Hudson's Bay Company to settle their
retiring servants on small lots of land in all cases where they
have acted with fidelity and industry, and thus gradually form
villages of small settlers and independent labourers.

Mr Peel states "that your Lordship hopes that with a view both
to the interest of the Company itself and that of the settlers
that more efficient measures may be taken for its improvement
than appears hitherto to have been the case." I am not aware to
what measures your Lordship alludes, and I can only assure you
that the Directors of the Company would give their best
consideration to any measures which you may be pleased to
suggest.

3. On the subject of the public works to be undertaken on the
Island referred to in the third paragraph of Mr Peel's letter I
beg to observe, that in answering Mr Merivale's letter of the
3rd September, the omission to express in direct terms my
concurrence in the views therein expressed, did not arise from
any intention or wish to dispute the right of Her Majesty's
Government to exercise control over such works.

Mr Peel's remark that I stated that the Governor and Council
did approve of certain works of the above description is not
quite correct. On reference to my letter of the 10 September
I find I said "it was left almost entirely to the Governor and
his Council to select both the sites and the works to be erected
on them", but first obtaining the sanction of the Hudson's Bay
Company.
[Marginal note. "I do not see much difference."]
I may observe that it is not intended to make an
expenditure on public works beyond the Trust fund that may arise
from Sales of land &c, but if it should hereafter appear
expedient to do so your Lordship's approbation will be
previously applied for.

4. With respect to the reserves of land concerning which your
Lordship wishes for more particular information, I have to
state that by the last mail Mr Pemberton, the Colony Surveyor,
has sent home surveys of the lands which the Fur Trade of the
Hudson's Bay Company propose to take, but has omitted to
distinguish that which they possessed previous to the Boundary
Treaty from the whole quantity. The former will be made over to
them without purchase, and, for any addition thereto they will
have to pay 20/- an acre as all other Settlers do.

He has likewise sent a survey of the Puget Sound Company's allotment.
Any part of these allotments may be taken for Government
purposes at the cost price, but it would be convenient that the
wishes of Government should be intimated, that costly
improvements may not be made, nor buildings erected on such
portions.

With regard to a duty on imports which your Lordship seems to
think can not be imposed but by the Legislative Assembly, I can
only say that I have no recollection of any understanding to
that effect. My view is that as the formation of the
Legislative Assembly is prospective, the Colony may in the
meantime be considered as not possessing such an Institution,
and that the parts of the constitution already formed may
perform the functions of the whole until a complete developement
has taken place. The duty to be levied would principally fall
upon the Hudson's Bay Company's Fur trade, as the importation of
goods for their inland Fur posts by Fraser's River, and the
supply of their posts in the Gulf of Georgia, will be more than
9/10ths of the whole.

6. I have already stated to your Lordship that the Hudson's Bay
Company neither claim nor exercise any monopoly whatever in
Vancouvers' Island. But it appears to have been represented to
your Lordship that the Company exercise a virtual monopoly with
respect to Settlers and visitors. The only visitors to the
Island hitherto, as far as I know, are Her Majestys' ships of War
which have received supplies of provisions from the Company's
stores. The prices charged for these supplies have been
complained of as too high, and in order to ascertain whether
they are so or not, I some time ago applied to the Lords
Commissioners of the Admiralty for information as to the rate of
charge, which I regret to say I have not succeeded in obtaining.
I must therefore content myself with stating that there have
been unprecedented fluctuations in the provision market on the
North West Coast of America of late, and that the Company
imported provisions for their establishments from the Sandwich
Islands at very high prices.

I am not aware that any indirect means have been resorted to for
establishing a monopoly by refusing ground for building sites in
suitable places, to Traders who might compete with the Company,
or that any facilities for trading have been denied such
persons. Such proceedings on the part of the Companys Agent
would, I beg to assure you, meet with the marked displeasure of
the Directors of the Company. The Company have afforded the
facility of importing goods in their Ships, and some of the
Settlers have availed themselves of this privilege.

7. California will I trust in time afford an advantageous
market for the productions of Vancouver's Island, and thus
exercise a favourable influence in the Settlement of the Colony.
At present however the unsteadiness of that market holds out but
little encouragement to the Agriculturist. Wheat, which some
time ago was selling in Oregon at 7/- per bushel had fallen by
late accounts to 3'/1 1/2d.

Should Mining operations succeed in Vancouvers Island, Coal will
find a sure and ready market. As yet however none but surface
coal has been discovered.

I shall now offer a few remarks on Admiral Moresby's letter and
the enclosures therein.

Adml Moresby's letter, par: 2

It is gratifying to me to find that Admiral Moresby bears
testimony to the high character of Mr Douglas. In confiding
the direction of their affairs to such a man the Company feel
assured that they have adopted the best means in their power for
preventing such abuses as those alleged in the Admirals Report
to the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty.

Whether the opinion stated by the Admiral in a former Despatch
and here repeated "that the attempt to colonize Vancouver's
Island by a Company with exclusive rights of trade is
incompatible with the free and liberal reception of an emigrant
community" be correct or not I will not take upon me to say. I
can only repeat that it is not applicable to the case of
Vancouvers Island inasmuch as the Hudson's Bay Company neither
claim nor exercise such right in that Island.

Par 3 & 4.

The farm let to Mr Langford by the
Puget Sound Company contains 600 acres, and the Hudsons Bay
Company have placed a Bailiff on a small farm of 60 acres, who
is paid by salary.

On the terms on which the Puget Sound Company have let their
land to Mr Langford I do not think it necessary to make any
other remark than this, that they are much more favourable to
the tenant than those stated by Admiral Moresby, favourable as
the latter must be considered to be.

Par 5.

The Company have as yet received no distinct information
respecting the Sale of the two building lots mentioned in this
paragraph, but they have reason to believe that they are on land
which forms a part of the allotment for the Fur trade, neither
have they any information of a misunderstanding with the Indians
caused by Padre Lampfrit [Lempfrit] the missionary.
Mr Blanshard was reimbursed by the Company for the expence he
incurred in building his cottage.

Par 6.

It was hardly to be expected that two ships of War coming
unexpectedly at the same time could procure sufficient supplies
of provisions from the Company's stores, which are provided
solely with a view to their own requirements. The charge for
grass and mutton seems high, and will be enquired into. With
regard to the latter article it is to be borne in mind that the
traffic between Vancouver's Island and Nisqually, from which
cattle and sheep are brought, was stopped by the United States
Custom House authorities in Oregon, the natural consequence of
which would be to enhance the price at Fort Victoria. So many
of the Company's servants had deserted in consequence of the
gold digging temptation, that Mr Douglas had difficulty in carrying on the
ordinary business of the trade, and could not spare labour for
the cultivation of either gardens or fields.

Par 8.

The Statement in the 8th paragraph of
the Admirals letter is a revival, with additions, of the story
which I had occasion to notice and, as I had hoped, to set at
rest, in a former communication, but as it has been
reproduced by Admiral Moresby I shall bestow a few remarks upon
the present version of it.

It has been the uniform policy of the Hudson's Bay Company never
to suffer the blood of a white man to be shed by a savage with
impunity. This policy is well understood by the tribes who
inhabit the regions under the control of the Company, and it is
not too much to say that it has saved many a life that would
otherwise have been sacrificed. There is therefore a very
strong antecedent improbability that any officer of the Company,—were
it only for his own sake—would offer a premium for the
murder of white men. But the testimony of Mr Beardmore
[Beardsmore] is conclusive on this point, and the more so
because he is known not to be well affected towards the Company.
When examined by Admiral Moresby he says expressly that a reward
(and to Indians no small reward)
was offered for the apprehension of the murderers, and that no
reward was offered for the deserters. The charge of offering
a reward for the heads of the Seamen may now, I think, be
considered as finally disposed of.

But a similar charge in regard to the Muirs is now, for the
first time, brought foward as the hearsay evidence of one of
them. Andrew Muir, the Admiral's informant, was the ringleader
of a mutiny at Fort Rupert, and a deserter.

It is also worthy of remark that this man omitted to mention the
offer of a reward for his head when he submitted to Governor
Blanshard his complaints of the bad treatment he had received
from the Hudson's Bay Company. Nor is it probable that if such
a reward had been offered the Governor who reported to your
Lordship the rumour respecting the murder of the Seamen would
have left this to be reported by Admiral Moresby twelve months
after the transaction to which it refers is said to have taken place.

Par 10.

The Title deeds have been delayed for
want of surveys. The Surveyor first sent out having failed
to fulfil his engagements, it was found necessary to send out
another, and much time was consequently lost. Terms of Deeds
have been transmitted to the Company's agent, to be filled up as
soon as the boundaries of the allotted lands shall have been
fixed by the new Surveyor. When these Deeds, which are supposed
to be on their way to England, arrive, they will be executed
here and returned to the Colonists by the first opportunity.

Par 11.

The people hitherto sent out have been
hired Servants, a portion of whom have been married men; but in
this matter the Company must be guided by circumstances, as the
limited means of feeding the people, until cultivation to some
extent could be established, rendered it inexpedient to send out
men with large families.

Par 12.

On the subject of protection referred
to in the correspondence between Mr Blanshard and Mr Douglas
attached to the Admiral's Report, I had the honor of stating to
your Lordship in my letter of the 28th February last that I did
not consider a Military force necessary. I have seen no reason
to alter that opinion, but on the contrary am confirmed in it by
Mr Douglas's letter to Mr Blanshard of the 3rd July 1851. I
quite agree with him that the appointment of local Magistrates
is all that is necessary. When I read Mr Blanshard's letter of
the 2d July 1851 to Mr Douglas I was not a little surprised,
as Mr Douglas always discountenanced a Military force, and had
lived on the Island for years with only a few white men; but how
Mr Blanshard could have stated the substance of Mr Douglas's
conversation as implying the necessity of a military force is
quite incomprehensible. That it was a misapprehension on his
part is evident from Mr Douglas's answer.

Par: 12

The Servants of the company are
engaged on contracts for five years; the wages of labourers are
17 per annum; they are lodged, fed, supplied with implements,
and conveyed out and home at the Company's expence. They almost
all remit money to their families during their contracts, and
very many of them, when they quit the Service, have considerable
balances to receive. Salmon and Pork, with Beef and Mutton
occasionally, constitute their foods. The English labourers are
chiefly from Dorsetshire. Now the wages of a Dorsetshire
labourer have not for some years averaged more than 7/6 per
week, out of which he has to find every thing for himself and
his family, when he has one. It hardly need be enquired how
much fresh meat, or animal food of any kind, can possibly be
procured with such wages, or whether the labourer is better off
in Vancouver's Island or at home. But the Company, like all
other employers of labourers, have a right to hire them at as
low wages as they may be willing to engage for. They find no
difficulty in procuring men for those wages in Orkney, from
whence they have for many years obtained them, and where the
nature of the service is perfectly known. The wages o. 17 are
for the first term of engagement, and afterwards, on a renewal
of their engagements, the men get increased wages according to
their industry and usefulness. Almost all the European servants
save money in the service besides remitting money to their families.

Admiral Moresbys informant is mistaken in saying that only
Canadians and Indians have till lately been employed by the
Company. A large proportion of their servants are from the
Western Isles of Scotland and the Orkneys. Englishmen were
engaged solely from a belief that having been more exclusively
occupied in Agricultural labour than the Islanders, they might
be very useful in a new Colony.

With respect to the quality of the Pork supplied to the
Servants, I can only say that it was the best that could be
procured, and cost a very high price.

The informant states that the price of an article is withheld,
or some punishment inflicted upon the men for asking it, that
nothing under half a dollar is allowed to be purchased by the
men, that a little thread is charged half a dollar, a button or
two the same. Now I find upon examining the mens accounts that
the charges against them are composed of a variety of articles,
small in quantity, and many charges of 3d, 4d, 5d & 6d,
in short like small shop accounts in any other part of the world.

In the Admiral's Report of the conversation he had with Mr
Beardmore, I observe he says the men were deceived by the
Hudson's Bay Company—that no man in his right senses would come
from England to suffer what these men have got to suffer, it was
worse than transportation, &c &c.

Admiral Moresby might have seen that Mr Beardmore had left the
Company's service a discontented man, and should have therefore
been on his guard against receiving his opinions and statements
as correct representations of the real state of things. Some of
the men stated to have been deceived and to have been subjected
to treatment worse than transportation—men from Kent—came home
in one of the Company's vessels in place of seamen who had
deserted, it being impossible to procure other seamen at the
time. Now those very men had been but a few months at home when
they volunteered to resume their places in the Company's service,
and they did so. They returned to Vancouver's Island by the
next ship. I may also mention that the Company have had
applications from the friends of the Englishmen who are now in
Vancouver's Island to be taken into their Service—and this in
consequence of the statements sent home from thence.

One man writes thus from Cumberland—"I had a letter from an
uncle that went out on the first of November 1850, and he wants
me to go out as soon as ever I can for the same place, and he
went by your Company, his name was Wm Aikenson, he requested me to write up to you directly. Please write back as soon as you can, and let me know how the emigrators rules or conditions are."

Another says "I have received a letter from my sons James and
Charles and Robert Fish now in your employ in Vancouvers Island,
and they give me a very satisfactory account of the place. they
never regret leaving their home but say they are very happy and
comfortable."

From the person who engaged the Dorsetshire men for the Company
the following letter was received in October last, "I write
these few lines to enquire if you want any hands this fall for
Vancouver, as I have applicants every day and I cannot give them
an answer until, Sir, I hear from you; if you want any please to
let me know as I think I can get them for you, married or
single". and in another letter he says "their friends (the
friends of the men sent out to Vancouver's Island) have brought
me their letters for me to read, and they all give it an
excellent character, plenty of every thing."

Permit me in concluding this letter to assure your Lordship that
the Directors of the Hudson's Bay Company have no more earnest
wish than to see the Settlers prosperous whether engaged in
trade, agriculture, or any other branch of industry.



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I have to acknowledge the receipt of a letter from Mr Under
Secretary Peel transmitting to me a Copy of a letter from the Secretary
of the Aborigines Society with a petition from certain Indians and half
castes located in the Red River Settlement and stating that your
Lordship will be happy to receive any observations I may have to make on
that Petition.

The Petition, from which the 4th paragraph appears to have been
omitted, embraces the following allegations, namely

1st That two individuals have been imprisoned.

2nd That the principal trade of the Settlement is
monopolized by the Hudson's Bay Company.

3rd That a certain Petition has been got up by
unjustifiable means.

4th That the Members of Council are unduly influenced
by the Company.

With respect to the first of these allegations I have only to
observe that it is to be presumed that the proceedings adopted in the
cases alluded to were in due course of law, the contrary not being
alleged by the Petitioners.

To the allegation that the Company monopolize the principal trade
of the Colony I give the most positive contradiction. So far indeed is
this from being true, that the sole object the Company had in view in
opening a Sale Store in the Settlement was to benefit the Settlers who
would otherwise have been at the mercy of the private dealers as to the
prices of all imported goods. There is no restriction whatever either
on the importation or sale of British goods.

The trade in furs secured by Charter is the only exclusive trade
carried on by the Company, and it is one of the conditions under which
land has been granted to Settlers that they shall not interfere in the
Fur Trade with Indians.

In regard to the Petition stated to have been got up for the
benefit of the Company to which signatures are said to have been
fraudulently appended the Directors have never till now heard of such a
Petition nor are they aware either of its nature or objects. All
therefore that I can say is that enquiry will be made respecting it.

On the subject of the influence exercised by the Company over
Members of Council I have to remark that the circumstance of two or
three of the Council holding Municipal Offices, the expence of which
ought to fall upon the Settlers but from which they are relieved by the
Company, affords no justification for the charge of corruption so
wantonly brought against them by the Petitioners. In the appointment of
Councillors the Company have had solely in view the good government of
the Colony and have always selected the best educated and most
respectable members of the community—Men whom intelligence and stake in
the country pointed them out as fittest for the Office, and my firm
belief is that although they may not have satisfied the unreasonable
demands of that portion of the population who have suffered themselves
to have been misled by turbulent demagogues, they have done their duty
conscientiously and uprightly.

Having thus noticed the particular points adverted to in the
Petition I have only to observe that if the Petitioners suffer evils as
they state in the preamble to their Petition, the evils are of their own
creation and not owing to the Government of the Hudson's Bay Company;
and that the remedy does not lie in the Municipal changes which they
demand, but in a change in their own habits and in the Institution of
regular industry for the precarious returns of the chase of the Buffalo
and the desultory mode of life to which they have addicted themselves.

Were it necessary for me to vindicate the Government of the
Hudson's Bay Company from the charge of oppression I would refer to the
parliamentary papers contained in the Return to an Address of the House
of Commons dated Feby 9th 1849; but I shall content myself with
the following quotation from the letter of Colonel Crofton to Mr
Under Secretary Hawes at page 101.

"I unhesitatingly assert, that the Government of the Hudsons Bay
Company is mild and protective, and admirably adapted in my opinion, for
the state of society existing in Prince Rupert's Land, where Indians, half-breeds and Europeans are happily governed, and live protected by
laws which I know were mercifully and impartially administered by Mr
Thorn the Recorder and by the Magistrates of the land."



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Her Majestys Sloop Daphne having afforded a passage to His
Excellency Richard Blanshard the Governor of Vancouver's Island between
the 4th July and 3 August last, I am commanded by my Lords
Commissioners of the Admiralty to require that you will move Earl Grey
to inform My Lords whether the expense of this passage is to be borne by
the Public.



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In my communication of the 16th December
of which I herewith transmit a duplicate,           I informed your Lordship, that several vessels had sailed, and that
others were reported to be fitting out in the American Ports of Oregon and
California, for the coast of Queen Charlottes Island.⎯
These vessels are chartered by large bodies of American
Adventurers, who are proceeding thither for the purpose of digging Gold,
and if they succeed in that object, it is said to be their intention to
colonize the Island, and establish an independant Government until by
force or fraud they become annexed to the United States.       They look
forward and are prepared to encounter much opposition from Her Majesty's
Government, but they speak very confidently as to their numbers, which
can be recruited to almost any desirable extent from the floating
population in California; and the ultimate success of their enterprise
is considered by them, as a matter admitting scarcely of a doubt.⎯     This report is believed and the chances of success are openly discussed in the best informed circles in Oregon; and the history of the last twenty years would serve to prove that projects of that nature, having
ultimately in view, the extension of the Territories of the United States, are not discountenanced at Washington.
One of the Hudson's Bay Company's vessels (the "Una")
which made
a voyage to Mitchels Harbour, on the west side of Queen Charlotte's
Island, in November last, discovered a rich vein of gold, averaging 6 1/2
inches in width, bedded in quartz rock, running 80 feet parallel with
the coast and from thence apparently taking a direction towards the
interior of the Island, but it could not be traced beyond the point
where it diverges from the line of coast, on account of the surface
earth, which conceals it from view.⎯           The vein was worked for several days by blasting, and rich specimens were procured some of which yielded
25per cent of pure gold, and there was every prospect of making a
profitable voyage when the Natives, attracted to the spot, in great
num--bersnumbers by the presence of the vessel, became so exceedingly troublesome
to the parties on shore, by pilfering their tools, and by rushing
tumultuously upon the mine, from time to time, as the explosions took
place to seize the gold, which had been so hardly earned, that they
could no longer carry on their operations without being in danger of
their lives.⎯      The officer in command, influenced by the entreaties of the Indian Chiefs  who with much apparent good feeling, begged him to keep
his men on board, and not permit them to land, as they found it
impossible amidst so many temptations to restrain their people from
committing those violent acts; his men at the same time having refused
to work on shore unless they were allowed to fire upon the Indians if
they again attempted to maltreat or plunder them; left the coast, a
decision made from the best of motives, but which has unfortunately left
the field open to the American Adventurers, who arrived there shortly
after his departure, and as the "Una" was wrecked at Cape Flattery, on
her return to this place and the Hudson's Bay Company, had no other
disposable vessel at hand to send there, the Americans still remain in
possession of the Gold region.⎯
I have since learned that the first American Ship, which arrived in
Mitchels harbour, remained only a few days; as the adventurers on board,
were intimidated by the hostile appearance of the Natives, and would not
venture on shore. Another smaller vessel was wrecked on the east coast
of the Island, ‸andand I have ascertained, through a letter from the Master
received by Indian convey--anceconveyance, that the whole, ‸partyparty he had on board
consisting of 30 persons had reached the shore in safety, and were
living in a most wretched condition among the Indians.
A vessel was lately dispatched to their relief, by the United
States Authorities at Nesqually with what success I have not yet heard.⎯
I have not been able to ascertain how many other American vessels have
gone there, but I will inform your Lordship as soon as I receive
infor-mationinformation regarding that matter.
While on the subject of Queen Charlottes' Island, I will further
take the liberty of remarking to your Lordship, that, apart from
political considerations, and as a mere question affecting the prosperity
of this colony, it would be highly important to exclude the vessels of
foreign powers from that field of enterprise leaving it open to national
vessels alone, as in that case, a flourishing trade would soon flow into
this colony, which would then necessarily become a general place of
refuge for the shipping employed on Queen Charlottes Island, and find a
market for all its farm and agricultural produce in supplying the Miners
with food; on the other hand if American vessels be admitted, they will
draw their supplies, and carry the produce of the Mines into their own
ports in Oregon and California to the manifest injury of Her Majestys
possessions in those quarters.
I have addressed a com--municationcommunication to Rear Admiral Moresby, inform--inginforming
him of the important discoveries made in Queen Charlottes Island, and
requesting him to take such measures as he may deem proper and advisable
in the circumstances for the protection of British interests, and
national rights.⎯

The loss of the Hudson's Bay Company's trading vessel "Una"
which was driven on shore through stress of weather in Neah Bay near Cape Flattery, the head land forming the south point of entrance into the Straits of Juan De Fuca, during the night of the 24th Decr, was
cursorily mentioned in a former part of this communication. I did not
however state to your Lordship, that the Natives who inhabit Neah Bay,
and the neighbouring Coast gathered about the wreck in vast numbers, and
behaved with great barbarity, towards such of the "Una's" crew as were
landed from the wreck. They broke open and rifled the seamen's chests;
stript them of their clothes, and maltreated those who attempted,
unarmed as they were, to defend their property.⎯ The timely arrival of
the American Schooner "Susan Sturges",
the Master of which humanely received the "Una's" crew, and part of her
cargo on board probably prevented the the commission of greater atrocities.⎯
Happily no lives were lost, but had the Indians displayed less avidity
to gain possession of the property and more humanity towards the crew of
the unfortunate "Una," the greater part of her stores, sails, and
rigging, might have been saved for the benifits of the owners and
underwriters.⎯
In consequence of those events it became the duty of this government
to bring the Cape Flattery Indians to a serious account for their
barbarous conduct, on that occasion in order to repress the mischievous
consequences likely to arise from their evil example, and deter other
savage nations from committing wanton outrages on the persons and
property of Her Majestys Subjects.
With that object in view the Hudson's Bay Companys Schooner
"Cadboro"
was despatched last week to Neah Bay with a well appointed force to
demand restitution and compensation from the Cape Flattery Chiefs; and
with the blessing of Providence I have no doubt their exertions will be
atten--dedattended with complete success, more particularly as the principal
chiefs alarmed at the conse--quencesconsequences of their folly have lately sent
messen--gersmessengers to this place with apologies for their conduct and offers of
accommodation founded on a restitution of property.⎯
I would also inform your Lordship that in taking those measures, I
did not overlook the circumstance of Neah Bay being situated within the
Territory of the United States, and gave positive instruc--tionsinstructions to the
Officer, in command not to resort to hostile measures, unless in self
defence, but I have no doubt the mere demonstra--tiondemonstration will produce the
desired effect, without a resort to extreme measures.⎯
The discovery of Gold on Queen Charlottes Island, has naturally led
to much excitement among the labouring classes in this colony, and I
fear that many of them will in consequence leave their present
employments to become Gold hunters, a circumstance which will for a time
retard the progress of the settlements, though I expect an accession of
wealth ultimately from the proximity of the Gold region to this Colony.
The winter continues remarkably mild and favourable for field work,
and nothing has occurred since my last advices to disturb our peaceful
relations with the native Tribes of Vancouver's Island, or to affect the
internal peace of the Colony.⎯



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Having greatly recovered my health & strength during the period of
five months which have elapsed since I left the Governorship of
Vancouver's Island & its dependencies, I take the liberty to bring my
case before your Lordship and to express a hope that I may be permitted
to look forward to another appointment in Her Majesty's service. I
trust that I should be found fully competent for the duties of a
Colonial Secretary, Consul, or Governor of any Insular territory, or as
an Attache to an Embassy. I have taken the degree of Master of Arts at
Cambridge & am a member of Lincolns Inn; but having a claim to
considerable property in America I passed upwards of two years there and
have not practised as a Barrister. In the year 1848 I was travelling in
the Upper provinces of India when the Sikh War suddenly broke out, and
my services were accepted as a volunteer. On the successful termination
of the campaign I was invited to accept a commission in H.M. Service,
but having received a letter from a relative in England informing me
that Vancouvers Island was to be colonized on a large scale and that it
had been intimated to him that he could procure the appointment of
Governor for me, I relinquished other prospects and arrived in England
towards the end of June 1849, when I had the honor of being introduced
to your Lordship by JH Pelly. Having received the appointment I
provided at my own expense a full and ample outfit including a service
of plate and other appendages suitable for such a situation, And beyond
a payment made by the Hudson's Bay Company my outward passage cost me a
considerable sum, as I experienced a long detention at Panama and was
further obliged to proceed to Callao to seek one of HM Ships, which I
expected would have met me at Panama. On my arrival at Vancouvers Island there was not the slightest preparation for my reception, and
jointly with my servant I occupied an empty store room for several
months, until I was able to build myself a small log house. During the
18 months I was there I had to purchase every thing from the Hudson's
Bay company's stores at excessive prices; twice I was called to proceed
to the Northern part of the Island on account of differences between the
Hudson's Bay Compy's Servants, and the natives, and on one occasion
was under the necessity of making a passage of seven days in an open
canoe during the month of November, which acting on a constitution
already enfeebled by repeated attacks of the ague, reduced me so low
that on my return to Victoria, where there was not at that time any
medical advice, I was unable to walk and my recovery was not expected.
On the submission (by my relative) to your Lordship in March 1851 of
medical certificates from two London Physicians, you permitted my
resignation on which I left the Island on the first of September and
reached London and reported my arrival to your Lordship on the 29
Novr. I returned to England at a great expense (upwards o. 300) &
on my homeward passage lost the greater and most valuable part of my
baggage by the wreck of a vessel in the river Chagres.

Melancholy as it is to reflect that I have borne H.M.'s commission
for executing the office of Governor for a length of Service during
which some benefit might have been expected from my exertions I am
constrained to say that I have not accomplished the purposes for which
sent out. There were not any materials to work wit. scarcely an
inhabitant except the Indian tribes and the Hudson's bay Compy's
servants, and no probability of colonization being encouraged. Under
the combined circumstances of the great expense I have been put to, of
the loss of time, of the prospects I abandoned, and the exposure to
inclement weather which so greatly injured my health, without my having
received the slightest recompence whatever, I trust I shall not be
deemed presumptuous in expressing my hope that I may be permitted to
look forward to some future employment in H.M. Service whether
colonial, consular, or Diplomatic.

In conclusion I take the liberty to enclose for your Lordships
perusal the copy of an address which was presented to me after my
embarkation without my previous knowledge of it, with copies of six
certificates of my service in India, for which I have received an
honorary medal.



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I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of Mr Under
Secretary Peel's letter of the 13th Ultimo transmitting a Copy of a
letter from Rear Admiral Moresby to the Secretary of the Admiralty dated
October 21st 1851 in which the Admiral refers to letters from Captain
Fanshawe of HMS Daphnae [Daphne] giving an account of the proceedings of
that Vessel against the Neweete's in Vancouver's Island.

As Copies of Captn Fanshawe's letters have not been transmitted
to me I have no observation to make on the Admiral's Communication, but
I am happy to inform your Lordship that the Directors of the Hudson's
Bay Company have learnt by letters from Mr Douglas that Captain
Fanshawe's vigorous measures had impressed the Natives with a salutary
terror, that the Murderers of the three Seamen had been executed by
their own tribe, and that there was every prospect of permanent peace
being established.



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No. 4

I have received and perused with satisfaction your Despatch of the
31st October last, reporting upon the general state of the
settlement of Vancouvers Island.

I approve of your selection of Mr Frederic [Roderick] Finlayson
to fill the office of Councillor, and the necessary Warrant for his
appointment will be transmitted to you by an early opportunity.

I have also brought under the notice of the Church Missionary Society your observations respecting the moral instruction of the Native
Tribes, with a view to ascertaining whether it may not be in the power
of the Society to send out Missionaries to the Settlement.

With regard to the discovery of Gold on the West Coast of Queen
Charlotte's Island, I do not consider that it would be expedient to
issue any prohibitions against the resort thither of Foreign Vessels.
Were there no other objection to such a step it would be a sufficient
reason against it that Her Majesty's Government are not prepared to send
there a force to give effect to the prohibition.



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I have had the honour of receiving Mr Peels letter dated the
2nd Instant, in which it is stated that your Lordship would be glad
of some further explanation as to the distinction between the lands
which the Hudson's Bay Company possessed before the "Boundary Treaty"
and others, and also as to the meaning of the expression "lands which
the Fur Trade of the Hudson's Bay Company propose to take."

In compliance with Your Lordship's wishes I hasten to afford you
the required explanation.

During the period that elapsed between the original connection of
the Hudson's Bay Company with the Country west of the Rocky Mountains
and the division of the Territory by the Boundary Treaty of June 1846,
while in fact the sovereignty was in abeyance, the Company reclaimed
from the Wilderness and occupied portions of land wherever their trading
Establishments were planted. These lands they claim as theirs without
purchase and the possessory rights thus acquired in that portion of the
Territory which is situated to the south of the 49th parallel of
North Latitude have been guaranteed to them by the Boundary Treaty.
Among the lands occupied by the Company North of the 49th parallel is
that situated at Fort Victoria in Vancouver's Island where they formed
an Establishment in the year 1843 and this is the land alluded to in the
4th Paragraph of my letter of the 14th December. Its exact extent
has not yet been ascertained by the Company's Surveyor, but whatever
that may be the Company consider they have a right to hold that land
without paying for it, while for any additional quantity that may be
required to be taken by the "Fur Trade" (which is merely a subordinate
branch of the Hudson's Bay Company) the same price will be paid as is
paid by other purchasers of land.

With regard to the levying of Import Duties, of the legality of
which Your Lordship still entertains doubts I need only say that it
rests entirely with Your Lordship to instruct the Governor of the Island
as to the extent and mode in which he is to exercise the powers
conferred upon him.



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Sir J.H. Pelly presents his Compliments to Mr Merivale and has
to acknowledge the receipt of a packet addressed to the officer
administering the Government of Vancouver's Island, which he will cause
to be forwarded by an early opportunity.



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[No. 2]

It is with much satisfaction that I have to report to your
Lordship the return of the Schooner "Cadboro"
to this place, on the 7th Inst, with the force lately despatched
to Neah Bay, to demand satisfaction of the Natives of that place, for
the plunder of the "Una", and the maltreat--mentmaltreatment of her crew, as
communicated in my letter of the 29th January. ⎯
The expedition produced the desired effect of alarming the Natives, who
made every concession and repa--rationreparation in their power.      They expressed
regret for the misconduct of that part of the Tribe which had been
almost exclusively concerned in plundering the "Una", and readily
restored every article of value which remained in their possession.

The Chief or principal person of the Tribe, who it appears was
absent when the "Una" was wrecked evinced his good will in every
possible shape, and vigourously exerted his authority in compelling the
restitution of the property.      Mr Dodd the Commander of the
Expedition, ascertained that he had punished the plunderers of the "Una"
with more severity than was called for, by the circumstances, previous
to the "Cadboro's" arrival in Neah Bay; having caused ten of the number
to be shot, and one, who was accused of being the party who set the
vessel on fire, to be burried alive.      Those barbarous ‸actsacts were however,
neither demanded nor approved by us, and were the result of their own
influenced deliberations.

This affair which might have proved troublesome and expensive has
been therefore quietly settled, by a simple demonstration, without any
direct act of hostility, on the part of this Government, though it has
made a deep impression on the minds of the Natives who were intently
watching our proceedings.

I have the honor of transmitting herewith duplicate of my letter
of the 29 Ultimo and



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No. 5

I transmit to you herewith the copy of a correspondence between
this office and the Governor of the Hudson's Bay Company, on the subject
of certain land in Vancouver's Island which the Company has intimated
its intention of appropriating with the view to extending its fur trade;
and I have to direct you to furnish me with any information in your power
as to the extent and description of the land in question.



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I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 9th
Instant communicating the Copy of a Despatch from the Governor of
Vancouver's Island to Earl Grey for which I beg you will convey to his
Lordship the thanks of the Governor and Committee of the Hudson's Bay
Company.



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FILE: 1852-02-20_Trevelyan_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525TE01.txt
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Trevelyan to Merivale (Permanent Under-Secretary)

With reference to your Letter of the 9th Instant, I have it in
command to acquaint you, for the information of Earl Grey, that, under
the circumstances of the state of ill health of Mr Blanshard, the
late Governor of Van Couver's Island, the Lords Commissioners of Her
Majesty's Treasury will not object to the Expence of his conveyance to
Panama, in Her Majesty's Ship "Daphne," between the 4th July and
3rd August last, being defrayed by the Public.



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I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of
the 13th Instant.



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FILE: 1852-02-28_Straith,_Church_Missionary_Board_of_Trade_to_Pakington_V525MI01.txt
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In a Letter addressed to this Office on the 9th Inst under
the direction of Earl Grey, enclosing an Extract from a Despatch from
the Governor of Vancouver's Island, his Lordship desired to be informed
whether this Society would be able to comply with the suggestions of the
Governor for the establishment of Schools for the moral training &
instruction of the Native Tribes.

I have the honour to inform you that the Committee have taken this
matter into their serious consideration which they have been enabled to
do with the better effect from their long labours among the Kindred
Tribes of the Hudson's Bay Territory; & they hope that their existing
Mission in that Territory may be serviceable to Missionary operations in
Vancouver's Island.

Adverting to the objects stated in the Governor's Letter, viz:
that the Natives may become "of service to the Colony & form a valuable
auxiliary force in the event of war with any foreign power"—it appears
to the Committee that the most desirable plan would be the establishment
of industrial Boarding Schools upon the model of similar institutions in
New Zealand.

The Committee would beg to refer to a recent Despatch from Governor
Sir Geo. Grey of New Zealand to Earl Grey dated Wellington, New
Zealand, Jan 24/51, a copy of which Despatch was also furnished to the
Missionaries of this Society, as exhibiting the importance of such
Schools in a social & national point of view. A copy of this Despatch
is herewith appended.

Should Her Majesty's Government concur in these views, the Society
will be prepared to undertake the establishment of such Schools in
Vancouver's Island, provided, as in the case of New Zealand, they be
furnished with suitable buildings, land, & the assistance of an
Agriculturist together with necessary implements, until the School shall
become self supporting. The Society on their part will send out &
maintain a competent English Training Master, & such Native assistance
from the converted Indians in the Hudson's Bay Territory as may seem
suitable for the purpose.

In addition to such Schools, the Comee conceive that it will be necessary to provide one or more Chaplains or Missionaries, who might
attend to the spiritual instruction of the Settlers as well as the
evangelization of the Aborigines.

The Committee could not undertake the establishment of the Schools
without the security of their superintendence by a Clergyman of their
own selection; but they conceive that as such a Clergyman would be
rather a Chaplain to Settlers than a Missionary, they may fairly look to
Her Majesty's Government, or to the Hudson's Bay Company, to provide the
necessary Salary. It was upon this footing that Missionary operations
were first commenced in the Hudson's Bay Territories.

The Society has communicated with the Secretary of the Hudson's Bay
Company upon this subject & have placed in his hands a copy of the
Letter which they have now the honour of transmitting to you.



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Sir J.H. Pelly presents his Compliments to the Right honourable Sir
John Pakington and begs to hand him the enclosed packet received today
from the Governor of Vancouver's Island.



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No. 1

With reference to my Predecessor's despatch, No. 4, of the 4th
Ultimo, I transmit to you herewith a Warrant under the Royal Sign Manual,
appointing Mr Roderick Finlayson to be a Member of the Council of
Vancouvers' Island.



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No. 2

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatch of the 16th
December last, in which you represent the difficulty you have
experienced in the Settlement of disputes between the Colonists and the
Indians, and request instructions how far the testimony of Indians is to
be admitted as evidence in the Law Courts of the Colony.

With respect to the admission of Indian testimony, my belief is
that it is for the general advantage of Justice that all such evidence
should be received, leaving it to the tribunals to consider how much
value it may really possess. I do not think a distinction between cases
in which Colonists are concerned, and those in which natives only are
concerned, on principle advisable. Indian testimony may not unfrequently
be the only means of ascertaining the truth, if circumstances should ever
bring the two races into nearer relations than exist at present. Nor is
there any principle of English Law against its admission. The evidence
of all persons is receivable in our Courts if they have any mode of
solemnly declaring the truth which is held binding among themselves, and
any perception of principles of moral right and wrong.

I have directed the attention of the Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty to the necessity which appears to exist for stationing a
Vessel of War off Queen Charlotte's Island, and I have brought the
conduct of the Officers of the United States Customs in detaining the
Vessels of the Company under the notice of the Secretary of State for
Foreign Affairs.



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The Hudson's Bay Company in the course of their trade with the
Natives of Queen Charlotte's Island on the North West Coast of
America—a trade to which they have an exclusive right under a Grant
from the Crown dated the 13th May 1838—having discovered that the
Natives were in possession of specimens of gold ore which they said were
found on the islands, lately sent a small expedition thither under the
command of Mr McNeill a Chief Trader in the Company's service, to
make the necessary investigations respecting this discovery and to
establish a trading post.

I have the honour to enclose herewith for the information of Her
Majesty's Government, Mr McNeill's Report of his proceedings, and
shall feel obliged if you will grant me an interview with the view of
considering what steps should be taken for obtaining the gold and
particularly for preventing Citizens of the United States from
trespassing on Her Majestys possessions and infringing the rights of the
Hudson's Bay Company.



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On the 26th Ultimo I had the honour of addressing a letter to you, enclosing a Copy of a Report on the subject of the gold mine discovered in Queen Charlotte's Island, and requesting an interview, to which I have not yet had an answer.

Since then I have received a letter from Mr Ballenden, the
officer in charge at Fort Vancouver on the Columbia River, of which I
enclose an Extract, from which you will percieve that the discovery had
occasioned great excitement among the American population in that
quarter who were making preparations for a descent on the Island.



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I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt, on the 16th March,
of your Lordship's Despatches of the 19th Septr and of the
5th November, 1851, No. 1 Military,
the former inclosing a
Report, from the Hudson's Bay Company, shewing the quantity of land sold
by the Company at Vancouver's Island, at the price of one pound per
acre, with other infor--mationinformation relative to the progress of settle--mentsettlement in
this Colony.

I will not occupy your Lordship's time with any remarks upon
the Report from the Hudson's Bay Company, as it contains a correct
statement of their proceedings in reference to the colonization of
Vancouver's Island, and in the course of my communications, I will have
occasion to inform your Lordship of all matters relative to the State &
progress of the Settlements.

With reference to your Lordship's Despatch of the 5th
November I beg to observe that there is no copy of my Predecessor's
official correspondence with your Lordship among the public documents
committed by him to my Keeping.      I therefore cannot properly furnish the
information which your Lordship appears to require, relative to the
proceedings taken by Mr BlanchardBlanshard for the apprehension of
the Natives concerned in the murders of the British seamen at Neweete in
the month of July 1850.      I however informed your Lordship in my letter
of the 2131st of October last,
that the three natives concerned in that murder had been executed by
their own countrymen, and that we had in consequence renewed peaceful
relations with the Neweeté Tribe; who have since then been remarkably
quiet and orderly in their deportment, from whence I infer that the

retaliatory measures adapted by MrBlanchardBlanshard, and so vigourously
sustained by Lieutenant Lacy, of Her Majesty's Ship "DaphnaeDaphne" have had a
most salutory effect in impressing the minds of the Neweeté Tribe, as
well as other Indian Tribes, who inhabit the north end of Vancouver's
Island, with a proper degree of respect for the persons and property of
Her Majesty's Subjects; who may through accident fall into their power.

The instructions in your Lordships Despatch of the 20th
March 1851, No 1 Military, in reference to the views, which Her
Majesty's Government entertain on the question of the protection to be
afforded to British subjects, against the violence of the Native Indian
Tribes, will be made known to the Public, and be considered as the rule
of our future proceedings in such cases. Every means in the power of
this Government, will also be exerted to keep the Colonists together,
and to prevent them from straggling into the Indian Country, and forming
detached settlements, which from their weakness and isolation, would be
greatly exposed to Indian depredations, and become a source of disquiet
to the Colony.

It is obviously the interest and should be the constant study
of this Government, to avoid every course that may directly or
indirectly lead to dissension with the powerful Indian Tribes inhabiting
Vancouver's Island, whose numbers are estimated at 20,000 including
women and children.

They fortunately do not all speak the same language, and have their
sectional interests and disputes, which keep them, divided, and in a
measure hostile to each other; but notwithstanding those intestine
discords, their friendship is valuable and their opposition would prove
a formidable obstacle to the progress of an infant Colony.

A difficulty which nearly led to a fatal affray with the Songies

Tribe, occurred last month, in consequence of an attempt that was made
to apprehend an individual of that nation, who was accused of having
slaughtered several head of neat cattle and sheep, belonging to a
Settler.

Two Indians were, in succession, charged with the offence, one of
whom was captured without difficulty, and brought in by the Officer,
intrusted with the execution of the warrant, but in attempting
afterwards to apprehend the other offender; who had taken refuge in the
principal Songies Village near Victoria, the Constable, and his retinue
of ten men, were surrounded by a tumultuous throng of armed Indians; who
set him at defiance, and were only restrained at the point of the
BaoynetBayonet from rushing in, and disarming his party, who were consequently
compelled to retire in disorder, without having executed the warrant,
and with the loss of two muskets, and a Boat, which remained in the
hands of the Indians.       As soon as that outrage was reported I sent a
second party to demand ‸ofof the Songies the Boat and Muskets, they had so
lawlessly seized, on pain of being punished if they objected to restore
them; but the mission proved abortive.      They refused to give up the
property unless the Indian, who had been apprehended in the morning, on
the charge of Cattle lifting, and who still remained in custody, was set
at liberty.

Although very unwilling to proceed to extremity with those Indians;
who have been uniformly friendly, I could not allow Her Majesty's
authority to be thus treated, ‸with contemptwith contempt and the law set at open
defiance, without a neglect of duty, and incurring greater evils, than
those which it was sought to avert.

Before resorting to coercive measures I however resolved to try the
effect of a demonstration, and with that view ordered out a few guns,
and directed the Hudson's Bay Company's Steam Vessel, "Beaver", to be
anchored abreast of the village, in a position from which it could be
attacked to advan--tageadvantage, and in course of two hours our preparations were
completed. In the mean time, there was much excitement and alarm, among
the Indians, the women and children were flying in all directions, while
the men, appeared to look unmoved upon the scene of danger, but they had
also had time for reflection, on the consequences of pushing the matter
further, and, to my great relief, sent a messenger to beg that
proceedings might be stayed, as they had resolved to end the dispute by
restoring the Boat and Muskets, which were immediately given up.

It being then late in the evening nothing further could be done;
and the following morning the Songies Chief a well disposed Indian, made
proffers of compensation for the cattle that had been slaughtered by his
people; which were accepted, and quiet was restored.

I have probably dwelt at undue length on a subject; which may
not appear of much importance, from a wish to put your Lordship fully in
possession of the facts of the case, as well as our proceedings
consequent thereupon, and as similar difficulties will be of frequent
recurrence. I would beg the favour of your Lordship's instructions in
reference to other cases of the same kind. I would at the same time beg
to press upon your Lordship's consideration the advantage of stationing
one of Her Majesty's
 Ships, employed in the Pacific, at this or the
neighbouring Port of Esquimalt.

As a protective measure, the presence of that force would place the
Colony in "security" and give an impulse to settlement, more than any
other means that could be devised, for it would remove the preva--lentprevalent
idea; which now hinders many parties from embarking capital in this
Colony, that Her Majesty's Government are not disposed to patronize or
foster its interests in any way, and lastly it may prevent much future
evil, and in the end be a great saving of expense.

We have had no other cause of complaint nor difference whatever
with the Indians since my last report, and probably no serious
difference would ever occur were it not for the running cattle,
which often stray into the woods, at a distance from the settlement, and
offer an irresistable temptation to the hungry Indian, returning
unsuccessful from the chase, whose ideas are moreover somewhat
indistinct as to the real value of domestic cattle, being consider-edconsidered in
the same light as the deer of the forest, in which he believes there is
no exclusive property.

Several land sales have been effected, since the report made to
your Lordship by the Hudson's Bay Company, to parties residing in this
country; who are erecting buildings, and bringing the soil into
cultivation

The Puget Sound Company have commenced a large agricultural
estab-lishmentestablishment west of Esquimalt, and another on a smaller scale near
Victoria.

Several houses have also been erected in town, and on the whole
much progress has been made, for the small British population on the
Island.

A number of horses and cattle have also been imported during the
winter by the Hudson's Bay Company, and by individual settlers.

As a subject intimately connected with the well being of the
Colony it will not be irrelevant to inform your Lordship, that a boy's
school has been lately opened, chiefly at the expense of the Hudson's
Bay Company, for the instruction of the children of the lower classes;
which is well attended.      That with the school conducted by the Hudson's
Bay Company's Chaplain, provides secular and religious instruction for
all the children in the settlement.

Two Priests of the Roman Catholic Communion, arrived a few
days ago from Europe,
being the precursors of Monsieur Demers, Titular Bishop of Vancouver's Island; who is shortly expected here, his object being to found Missions
among the Native Tribes of Vancouver's Island.

There has been for some time past much excitement among the
labouring classes, on the subject of the Gold diggings of Queen
Charlottes Island, to the great injury of the Colony, which has in
consequence lost many useful men. One of the Hudson's Bay Company's
Vessels sailed for Gold Harbour, about the end of last month, with a
strong and well appointed party.

The "Exact" and another American Vessel, which called at Gold
Harbour since my last report, returned unsuccess--fulunsuccessful from that voyage,
having been beaten off by the Natives; though the American force was
considerable, and well armed.     Several other American vessels are
reported to be on the point of sailing from the Ports of Oregon, for the
same part of the coast. I have no reliable information from California,
though the rumours in circulation lead to the belief that Gold Harbour,
will be the great attraction of the season.

I have also to inform your Lordship, that this Government, have
it in contemplation to impose a duty on imports from Great
Britain, and all other countries, for the purpose of raising a
Revenue to meet its current expences.

Whether it will be a fixed or ad valorem duty, uniform or distinctive in
its provisions, and the other details of the measure, have not yet been
taken into consideration, by the Council; but as soon as it is matured,
I will take the earliest opportunity of communicating with your
Lordship.



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FILE: 1852-04-26_Addington_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525FO01.txt
================================================================================

I am directed by the Earl of Malmesbury to transmit to you, for the
information of Secretary Sir John Pakington, the accompanying copy of a
Dispatch from Her Majesty's Consul at San Francisco, containing
Information respecting the discovery of Gold in Queen Charlotte's
Island, and respecting the proceedings of Parties who have visited that
Island.



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FILE: 1852-05-03_Pelly_to_Pakington_V525HB11.txt
================================================================================

Sir J.H. Pelly presents his compliments to Sir John Pakington,
and begs to hand him a packet addressed to the late Secretary for the
Colonies which has been received today from the Governor of Vancouver's
Island, and also the copy of a letter from the Governor to Rear Admiral
Moresby, relative to the proceedings and views of American Adventurers
in regard to Queen Charlotte's Island.

Hudson's Bay House

May 3rd 1852



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FILE: 1852-05-08_Addington_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525FO02.txt
================================================================================

I transmit to you herewith Copies of a Letter and its Enclosures
from the Hudson's Bay Company respecting the Proceedings of certain
Adventurers at Queen Charlotte's Island, and I am directed by the Earl
of Malmesbury to request that you will inform Secretary Sir John
Pakington that His Lordship has signified to the Lords Commissioners of
the Admiralty Her Majesty's Commands that the Commander in chief of Her
Majesty's Naval Forces on the West Coast of America be instructed to
take immediate steps to protect British Property and British Territory
from violation by Foreigners.



================================================================================
FILE: 1852-05-14_Nicolay_to_Desart_Parliamentary_Under-Secretary_V526N01.txt
================================================================================

Nicolay to Desart (Parliamentary Under-Secretary)

In accordance with your request I send You some Memoranda on the
importance of the N.W. coast of British North America.

Although they have run to Some length I feel that no portion of the
subject is fairly represented. I am however prepared to go fully into
eavry part of it.

I take the liberty to caution Your Lordship against a hasty
judgement with respect to the interests of this country on the Pacific
at the same time that I would beg you to remark that the opinion I have
expressed does not in the main affect the subject of the accompanying
memoranda. But more especially I would venture to warn You against
accepting the statements of the Hudsons Bay Co as satisfactory with
respect to the condition or government of their territories. The truth
can only be got at primarily by careful Examination on the spot by
some one well acquainted with the history of the fur trade & of
discovery on the N.W. Coast.

I do not wish to be considered as making any reflection on its
Governors but it is not in the nature of things that a trading monopoly,
the operations of which are carried on among savages, should fairly
represent itself or that it should be in a condition to undertake large
and important national affairs.

A perusal of the statements of all witnesses on the Subject might
lead to a moral but not probably a judicial opinion.

I would also add that what is true of the natives as to isolation
would be equally true of convicts if the government desired to Land any
where their labour might compensate for the Expense of their
maintenance.

I would also suggest to you whether the cure of many of our social
evils at home may not more easily be found in the extension of our
Colonial Empire not in territory but in men & the consequent
extension of our Commercial and manufacturing relations, than by any
other means. Since the accompanying memoranda were written we have
learnt from the daily papers the formidable nature of the preparations
made at San Francisco for the occupation of Queen Charlottes Island by
American citizens which has by this time taken place. Also of their
having Caused a republic to be proclaimed at Honolulu & of their
intentions to do the same shortly at the Sandwich Islands—the latter
has been long the avowed object of their diplomatic agents in centeral
America & the Pacific



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FILE: 1852-05-14_Stafford_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525AD02.txt
================================================================================

In return to your Letter of the 13th Instant with its several
enclosures on the subject of sending a Naval Force to Queen Charlottes
Island for the security of British Interests and for the upholding of
National Rights, I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty to acquaint you for the information of Secretary Sir John
Pakington that Copies of your Letter and its enclosures have been sent
to Rear Adml Moresby, Commander in Chief of Her Majestys Ships and
Vessels on the West Coast of America for his information and guidance.



================================================================================
FILE: 1852-05-19_Pelly_to_Desart_Parliamentary_Under-Secretary_V525HB12.txt
================================================================================

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Lordship's
letter of yesterday's date, enclosing, by direction of Sir John
Pakington, copies of two recent Despatches from the Governor of Vancouver's Island, and informing me that the questions respecting Queen
Charlotte's Island had been referred for the consideration of the
Foreign Office and Admiralty; and I request that you will be pleased to
convey to Sir John Pakington the thanks of the Governor and Committee of
the Hudson's Bay Company for his communication.



================================================================================
FILE: 1852-05-25_Hamilton_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525AD03.txt
================================================================================

I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to send
you herewith, for the information of Secretary Sir John Pakington,
Copies of a Letter from the British Consular Agent at San Francisco to
Rear Admiral Moresby relative to the discovery of Gold in Queen
Charlotte's Island, and of the Orders given for Her Majesty's Ship
Thetis to proceed to assert the Sovereignty of Her Majesty over that
Island &ca, and to visit the Settlement of Fort Rupert in Vancouver's Island.



================================================================================
FILE: 1852-05-28_Douglas_to_Earl_Grey_V52104.txt
================================================================================

[No. 4]

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Lord==shipsLordships
communications, numbered 3 and 4, and dated respectively the
9th Jany and 4th February,
and two warrants under the Royal Sign Manual ap==pointingappointing Messrs John
Tod and James Cooper, respectively, to seats in the Coun==cilCouncil of
Vancouvers Island.

I have signified Her Majestys will and pleasure in making these
appointments, to Mr Tod who has been sworn and admitted as a member
of Council. Mr James Coo==perCooper: who lately started on a trading voyage
to California, will in like manner be notified of his appointment, as
soon as he returns to Vancouvers Island.

I observe with great satisfac==tionsatisfaction, that your Lordship approves
and will confirm, by an early opportunity, the appointment of Mr
Roderick Finlayson to the office of Councellor, and also that your
Lordship has 
communicated with the Church Mission==aryMissionary Society respecting
the moral instruc==tioninstruction of the Native Tribes, with the view of
ascertaining whether it may not be in the power of the Society to send
out Missionaries.

I also observe that your Lord==shipLordship for very important reasons, does
not consider it expedient to prohibit the resort of foreign vessels to
Queen Charlottes Island.

Since my last report of the 15th April,
advices have been
received that the Hudsons Bay Companys Brig "Recovery" had arrived
safely at Queen Charlottes Island, and taken unmolested possession of the
only surface Gold vein in Gold Harbour, with the consent and approbation
of the Native Indians, who have lived on the most friendly terms with
the party, ever since their arrival.

5. No foreign vessel was known at that time, to be, on the coast;
but in the space of ten days afterwards, seven vessels had assembled in
Gold Harbour, from the American Ports in Oregon and California, having
each from 40 to 70 miners on board. Finding the vein pre-occupied by
the Hudsons Bay Compys people the Americans sent out parties in all
directions to explore the neighbouring coast; but their researches for
gold were not successful, and four of the vessels after a few weeks stay
abandoned the enterprise, not however without having landed a party of
15 men, who have thrown up a block house on Nutts Island, and mounted
two small pieces of ordnance as a pro==tectionprotection against the Natives.

That party, and one Ameri=canAmerican vessel, were, by last advices of the
26th Inst. still in Gold Harbour. It was expected from the small
quan=tityquantitiy of Gold found, that the vessel would soon leave the coast, but
the party on shore had it appears made up their minds to remain for a
further time on the Island; from a persuasion that gold would be found
in consider==ableconsiderable quantities by mining, and they were expecting a
re-inforcementreinforcement of hands with supplies by a ship from Califor==niaCalifornia.

With our limited information respecting the auriferous deposits
of the Island, it is difficult to predict with certainty what
may be the issue of their adventure; but it is very certain that
success will have the effect of attracting, a crowd of
adventurers from the American settlements on this coast to Queen
Charlottes Isld, and it will be no easy matter to eject them
when firmly established.

I had indeed hopes derived from the signal failure of the five
first American vessels which visited the Island, that the Mines would be left to the better directed and firmer enterprise, of Her Majestys
subjects and that this Colony would become a Depôt and place of refuge
to the British ships employed about the mines.

The Hudsons Bay Compys people were working the auriferous rock with great energy, but indifferent success, not having struck any
decided vein of Gold; a fortunate Indian had however picked up, near the
same spot, a beautiful specimen of pure gold, weighing about three
pounds Troy, which he found among the mud on the beach, a little beyond
low water mark.

It was evidently a travelled lump but whether thrown up by the
waves, or carried down from the neighbouring mountains, could not be
ascertained; though plausible argu==mentsarguments are adduced in favor of each of
those opinions.

Detachments had been sent out to explore the interior of the
Island, who discovered a large fresh water lake, and many extensive beds
of quartz rock; but they saw very little surface gold.

It affords me much plea==surepleasure, to inform your Lordship that the
Native Tribes have been remar==kablyremarkably quiet since I had last the honor of
addressing you.

We were however lately alarmed by a reported outrage com==mittedcommitted by a
party of Cowegins, on the person of Mr LemprîtLempfrit, a very
zealous and energetic Roman Ca==tholicCatholic Priest, who commenced a Mission last
year in the Cowegin Country, without a single white assis==tantassistant, and
without any pecuniary means to defray the expense of an establishment,
as he trusted entirely to his Indian converts, for support; a plan which
could hardly be expected to succeed with ignorant savages.

Having previously ascertained that there was a great want of
cordi==alitycordiality between the pastor and his flock, and considering that it was
necessary for his own safety, that he should abandon the Mission and
retire within the limits of the settle=mentssettlements; where he could be protected
from danger, I immediately dispatched an officer, and a small force,
with orders to bring Mr LemprîtLempfrit to this place, and in the event of
any of his property having, as reported, been taken by the Indians to
require its imme==diateimmediate restitution; a service which was satisfactorily
accomplished without any difficulty.

I would also to observe to your Lordship, that it is the inten==tionintention
of this government to discourage the formation of Missionary stations,
among the Indians of this colony, except within the limits of the
set==tlementssettlements; where they can be protected and supported when necessary;
in conformity with the views expressed in your Lordship's Dispatch, of
the 25 March 1851.

That measure has been adopted, with a view of placing a prudent
restraint on the hasty zeal of the Roman Catholic Mission==ariesMissionaries, whose
intention it was to found Missions, with inadequate ‸meansmeans, among the
barbarous Savages inhabitating the east coast of Vancouvers Island;
without reflecting that their minds have not been prepared, by previous
intercourse with the whites, to appreciate the value of, a profit by
their instructions.

It would be a mere waste of energy to send Missionaries to that
part of the Island, as without powerful support, there is not the remotest chance, that the cause of religion would be promoted by their
presence; while their office would be derided their persons insulted,
and their lives exposed to continual danger.

I hope your Lordship will approve of that measure, more
especi==allyespecially, when it is considered that the Colony, must in all cases of
Indian difficulties, be practically drawn into the contest: by
whomsoever it may be occasioned, and I trust it will appear that, in the
instance related, we have followed the only safe course, by taking every
possible precaution, to prevent the occurrence of difficulties.

Her Majestys ship "Thetis" under the command of Captn KuparKuper arrived at the neighbouring port of Esquimalt on the 24th of
May and sailed on the 5th Inst for Queen Char==lottesCharlottes Island, and Fort Rupert, the Northern settlement of Vancouvers Island.

I communicated to Captn KuparKuper the substance of the information
respecting Queen Charlottes Island and the pro==jectsprojects of the American Adventurers, which is stated in this, and my previous letters to your Lordship, and also procu==redprocured one of the Hudsons Bay Compy's officers, who is well acquainted with the navigation of the coast to accompany him in that voyage.



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FILE: 1852-06-02_Stanley_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525FO03.txt
================================================================================

I have laid before the Earl of Malmesbury your letter of the
26th ultimo, enquiring whether any, and what, instructions should be
given to the Governor of Vancouver's Island or to Rear Admiral Moresby
in regard to foreign vessels trading to Queen Charlotte's Island or to
parties of foreigners whom such vessels may convey thither for the
purpose of carrying on mining or other operations; and I am directed by
His Lordship to transmit to you a copy of a letter which he addressed to
the Admiralty on the 8th ultimo, desiring that Admiral Moresby should
be instructed to protect British property and British territory from
violation by foreigners.

I also transmit to you a copy of a despatch which Lord Malmesbury
has written to Her Majesty's Minister at Washington upon this subject,
and which despatch His Lordship hopes will have the desired effect of
inducing the United States Government to exert themselves to prevent
aggression by American citizens on English rights; and I am to request
that you will inform Secretary Sir John Pakington that, in His
Lordship's opinion, the Governor of Vancouver's Island, or the officer
whose jurisdiction extends over Queen Charlotte's Island, should be
instructed in conformity with the tenor of the papers above mentioned,
and should make such regulations regarding the trade and mining
operations as may be right and proper, and may prevent such trade and
mining from being improperly usurped by foreigners; and that both the
Governor and Admiral should be instructed to punish according to law, or
forcibly to expel from the Island, any foreigners who may infringe
British regulations or violate British territory.



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FILE: 1852-06-09_Holloway_to_Secretary_of_State_V526H02.txt
================================================================================

Holloway to Secretary of State

I have the honor to address you upon the subject of a purchase
which I am desirous of making of a track of land in Queen Charlotte's
Island in the North Pacific.

Imagining that the Hudson's Bay Company might have had some
jurisdiction over the Island in question I applied to them, but the
reply from the Secretary was such as lead me to believe that the whole
power was vested in the British Government. With this impression I have
taken the freedom to ascertain from you whether in accordance with the
survey, (which I presume has been taken) a price has been fixed per
acre, and in the event of this being the case you would possibly have
the goodness to inform me whether I may be permitted to select such plot
as may in my opinion be eligible.



================================================================================
FILE: 1852-06-17_Le_Marchant_to_House_of_Commons_V525PA01.txt
================================================================================

Resolution, House of Commons

That an humble Address be presented to Her Majesty, that She will
be graciously pleased to give directions that there be laid before this
House, a Return made since 1849 by the Hudson's Bay Company to the
Secretary of State for the Colonies, in conformity with the grant of
Vancouver's Island to the said Company; of the acres of land sold, and
the number of Colonists settled in the said Island, and of all monies
which have been received by the said Company for the purchase of such
lands; and also from all payments which may have been made to them for
or in respect of coal or other minerals obtained in the said Island,
together with the amount applied to colonization and improvement of the
Island.



================================================================================
FILE: 1852-06-25_Douglas_to_Earl_Grey_V52105.txt
================================================================================

[No. 5]

I had the honor of receiving on the 21st Inst your Lordship's
communication of the 11th February,
with copy of your Lordship's correspondence with the Governor of the
Hudson's Bay Company, on the subject of certain land in Vancouver's
Island, which the Company had intimated an intention of appropriating
with the view of extending its Fur Trade, and you have directed me to
furnish you with any information, in my power, as to the extent and
description of the land in question.

In compliance with your Lordship's instructions, I hasten to
afford you the desired information.

The first of the Hudsons Bay Company's Settlements on Vancouver's
Island, was formed in the year 1843, as stated in Sir John Henry Pelly's
letter to your Lordship, on the site of the present Fort Victoria. The
sovereign=tysovereignty of the Country as is known to your Lordship was then in
obeyance, and the Treaty of joint occupation in force, which left the
whole of the district west of the Rocky Mountains situated between the
42nd and 54 40/60th parallel of north latitude open equally to the
 
trade and enterprise of the Subjects of Great Britain, and Citizens of
the United States. In the absence of law and the controulingcontrolling influence
of an established Government it became the custom of all parties forming
settlements within the limits of the disputed Territory, to mark the
extent of their land claims by certain fixed metes and boundaries.

The lands within those limits were held as their exclusive
property, and those rights were made good against all intruders, by the
sole act, and at the expense of the parties in possession.

The Hudson's Bay Company in common with other Companies and
individuals established in the country west of the Rocky Mountains,
accurately fixed the boundaries of their different settlements, and
expended large sums of money in bringing the land into cultivation, and
improving the tracts of country which they occupied. They also imported
all kinds of useful plants and seeds, and introduced Sheep and Neat
Cattle, which soon became so numerous as to occupy at some of the
trading posts extensive tracts of country. Thus at Fort Vancouver on
the Columbia River the Company's Farms and Stock occupied a tract of
country 40 square miles in extent, and about 140 square miles is the
extent of the area occupied by the Puget's Sound Company's tillage Farms
and Stock range at Nesqually on Pugets Sound.

The posts above mentioned are both within the division of the
Territory assigned by the Boundary Treaty of 1846, to the United States
of America; but notwithstanding, the rights of the Hudson's Bay Company
to the lands they occupied before the Treaty, are respected by the
Officers of that Government.

On founding the post of Fort Victoria, the usual custom was
observed of marking out the site of the establishment and the extent of
land required for tillage, and a sufficient cattle range, as a
protection from the intrusion of American citizens, who were daily
expected on Vancouver's Island, it being the year following the arrival
of the United States Exploring Expedition, under the command of Captain
WilksCaptain Wilkes, who devoted much attention to the survey, and
examination of that part of the coast.

The District then marked out as the Company's land, includes an area
of about 25 square miles on the south east corner of Vancouver's Island,
commencing at Victoria Harbour, the line follows the salt water Inlet to
near Knocken HillKnockan Hill, from thence it runs by Lake Hill, and Mount Douglas
to Cordova Bay, on the Canal de Arro, from whence it follows the coast
by Gordon Head and Point Gonzales, to the point of commencement at
Victoria Harbour. The accompanying sketch of the south east corner of
Vancouver's Island, which has been prepared for the purpose, will enable
your Lordship to trace the description of that District herein given
with ease and facility, and shows the exact extent of the lands improved
and occupied by the Hudson's Bay Company, previous to the Boundary
Treaty of 1846, and of which possession was maintained by the servants
of the Company until it became a possession of the British Crown.

Having thus endeavoured to give your Lordship an idea of the
extent of land possessed by the Hudson's Bay Company on
Vancouver's Island, previous to the Boundary Treaty of 1846, I
would further remark that it does not appear to be the intention
of the Company to appropriate the whole extent of the District,
traced upon the sketch, and occupied by them previous to the
Boundary Treaty; a great part of it having been sold as, and
with other public land.

The Company I believe propose to retain out of its former
possessions, only three of their Farms containing in the aggregate about
4000 acres. One of these Farms is at Victoria, and the two others are
situated at the distance of three & four miles respectively east and
north of that place. A number of Servants, and large herds of cattle
are kept at those farms, and they are not only indispensable to ‸the
Company, but of service to thethe Company, but of service to the Colony at large, as it is from these
farms that the Settlers procure seed and cattle to Stock their land, at
the moderate cost of £5 per head for horses, and Milch cows,
respectively; and there is otherwise no resources of that kind within
the reach of limited means. With the exception of the Farm at Fort
Victoria, which is advantageously situated on Victoria harbour, and will
become valuable as the Colony improves, The Company's Farms possess no
exclusive advantage in point of soil or position. Such advantages were
in fact less considered in choosing the sites occupied, than the object
of placing a restraint, on the wandering Tribes of Indians, who
committed depredations on the cattle for which purpose they are
admirably adapted. They contain Prairie and Wood land in convenient
propor==tionsproportions, with some extent of rock, and other unimprovable country,
and are in no manner superior as cultivable land, to numerous other
places, in the same District.

I have further to inform your Lordship that the Colony continues
in a state of perfect tranquility, and that the Native Tribes are quiet and orderly.



================================================================================
FILE: 1852-06-28_Pelly_to_Desart_Parliamentary_Under-Secretary_V525HB13.txt
================================================================================

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Lordship's
letter of the 26th Instant transmitting the Copy of a letter received
by Sir John Pakington from the Earl of Malmesbury together with its
enclosures, on the subject of Queen Charlotte's Island, and requesting
to be informed whether, in the opinion of the Directors of the Hudson's
Bay Company, it would be desirable that a Commission should issue to the
Governor of Vancouver's Island to be Lieutenant Governor of Queen
Charlotte's Island, and whether the services of Mr Douglas could be
available in that capacity.

In reply to which I beg to acquaint your Lordship that it appears
to the Directors of the Hudson's Bay Company exceedingly desirable that
the Governor of Vancouver's Island should receive the proposed
appointment.

There is nothing in the circumstance of the present Governor of
that Island holding an employment under the Company, which stands in the
way of such an appointment, or which would prevent his services from
being available for carrying into effect the views of Her Majesty's
Government.



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FILE: 1852-06-28_Stafford_to_Desart_Parliamentary_Under-Secretary_V525AD04.txt
================================================================================

Stafford to Desart (Parliamentary Under-Secretary)

I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to send
you herewith, for the information of Secretary Sir John Pakington,
Copies of a Letter from Rear Admiral Moresby, dated the 11th May
1852, No 52, and of its enclosures, relative to Queen Charlotte
Island.



================================================================================
FILE: 1852-07-12_Barclay_to_Pakington_V525HB14.txt
================================================================================

In the absence of Sir John H Pelly I have the honour to transmit to
you the enclosed packet from the Governor of Vancouver's Island which
has been received at the Hudson's Bay House today.



================================================================================
FILE: 1852-07-12_Hamilton_to_Desart_Parliamentary_Under-Secretary_V525AD05.txt
================================================================================

Hamilton to Desart (Parliamentary Under-Secretary)

I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to state
for the information of Secretary Sir John Pakington that Rear Admiral Moresby has reported that he has ordered Her Majesty's Ship Thetis to
remain at Vancouver's Island until the latter end of January next.



================================================================================
FILE: 1852-08-02_Douglas_to_Pakington_V52106.txt
================================================================================

[No. 6]

I had the honor on the 26th Ultmo of receiving your
communica==tionscommunications, numbered 1 and 2 of the 11th and 18th March
and with the former a Warrant under the Royal Sign Manual, appointing
Mr Roderick Finlayson to be a member of Council of Vancouver's Island. I have duly signified Her Majestys Will and pleasure to that
gentleman, and shall forthwith swear, and admit him as a Member of
Council

The instructions contained in your letter of the 18th March
in reference to the admissibility of Indiantestimony in the Law Courts
of this Colony, shall be communicated for the guidance of the
Magistrates and Officers, who may be entrusted with the adminis==trationadministration
of the Laws.

I observe with much satisfaction that you have directed the
attention of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to the subject of
stationing a vessel of war off Queen Charlotte's Island for the support
of national rights, and the protection of Her Majesty's subjects trading
to that quarter.

We have received no intelligence from Queen Charlottes Island since the arrival of Her Majesty's Ship "Thetis" in the early part of last month. The Americans had all left, before the departure of the
"Thetis" from Gold Harbour, and I have no doubt the report of her
proceedings on the coast, will deter many persons from going there, who
would otherwise have been induced, by its reputed wealth, to visit the
Island.

The danger is not however completely removed, as rumours are still
abroad of parties forming in California and Oregon for the avowed
purpose of working the Gold Mines, and any prospect of success will set
them all in motion.

The reports received from the Hudsons Bay Company's parties
employed on Queen Char==lottesCharlottes Island, are not so favourable as
anticipated, and it has now become a question, if surface gold, as found
in California, exists in large quantities on any part of the Island. On
the other hand all the accounts agree in representing the great value of
the auriferous quartz from which it is expected that a rich harvest of
the precious metals will be obtained.

The presence of a Vessel of War, permanently sta==tionedstationed on this
coast will I am convinced have the happiest effect in promoting general
trade, as well as the special interests of this Colony, and I am in
hopes, that Her Majesty's Government will take a favourable view of that
measure. In that event I will submit for your consideration that a War
Steamer of small force would be the most useful and effective Vessel
that could be employed on this coast, as besides the celerity and
certainty of her movements she could with less risk and far more ease
than a sailing vessel, visit the numerous Bays and Inlets where
prohibited vessels may be concealed.

The Colony of Vancouver's Island is, from present
circumstances, in a most unfor=tunateunfortunate position for Trade; at the distance
of more than 4000 miles from the nearest British posession and separated
from the Mother Country by half the circumference of the Globe, it has
no available outlet for its productions, con-sistingconsisting of Salt-fish, Deals,
Lime==stoneLimestone and Spars for Masts, which with the exception of the last will
do little more than defray the expensive transport to Great Britain.
Added to that dis==advantagedisadvantage the Colony has to sustain a competition with
the American settlements in Oregon, whose staple exports are similar to
those of Vancouvers Island, and are admitted into the American Ports in
California free of duty, while heavy protective duties ranging from 20
to 30 per cent, are charged upon the staple exports of this country.

Enterprise therefore languishes and unless some steps are taken to
mitigate as far as possible, those disadvantages, the Colony will never
prosper, and the labouring classes will seek employment in the
neighbouring settlements of Oregon. Much I conceive may be effected in
that way by encouraging the export of spars for the supply of the Royal
Navy, which this Island produces in great abundance, and of the very
best quality. I herewith enclose a document containing a description of
a lot of spars prepared for shipment by Mr Brotchie a British
subject; who has been nearly two years a resident on this Island, and
who after devoting his whole time and spending all his means in the
prosecution of that enterprise can find no sale for his property, which
is therefore in danger of being destroyed by fire and other accidents.

I beg to recommend the case of Mr Brotchie to your
consideration, as I have no doubt the Lords ‸CommissionersCommissioners of the
Admiralty would find it of advantage to order a contract to be made with
him for any number of Spars, required for the public service, this
besides rescuing a worthy and enterprising man from ruin, would give an
impulse to industry and be the means of calling into exercise a branch
of trade which may lead to very important results, as concerns the
future interests of the Colony.

I have nothing further of any importance relative to the Colony
to communicate. Petty offenses have on several occasions been committed
by the natives, which have been fairly dealt with, but we have had no
serious difficulty with any of the Native Tribes, who, generally
speaking, live on friendly terms with the white settlers.

Since my last commu=nicationcummunication several dwelling houses have been
erected at Victoria, and the Puget Sound Company have commenced two
large farms in the same district; otherwise there has been little
progress made in the settlements.

The harvest began about a week ago, and it is the general
opinion that the wheat and pea crops will afford a good yield, but the
oats are considered short and defecient in straw, owing to the extreme
dryness of the summer, there having been no rain, with the exception of
three light showers since the 10th of May last.



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FILE: 1852-08-02_Pakington_to_Douglas_V527103.txt
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No. 3

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatch of the 15th of
April last, and to acquaint you that I have called upon Mr Blanshard,
the late Governor of Van Couver's Island to deliver to this Office, copies
of the Despatches to the Secretary of State, which, as you report, are
not included among the public Records of the Settlement which he
committed to your charge on his retirement from the Government.

In expressing my approval of the firmness and good judgement shewn
by you in the affair of the Songies Indians, I have only to add that the
mode of dealing with the native Tribes is a point which I must leave to
your own discretion, trusting to your disposition to cultivate friendly
relations with them as far as may be possible.

With reference to your request
that a Ship of War may be stationed off Vancouver's Island I have to acquaint you that Her Majesty's Ship "Thetis" has been
ordered to remain there until the latter end of January next.

I take this opportunity of enclosing a Book of Regulations for the
guidance of the Governors of Her Majesty's Colonial Possessions, and I
have to direct your attention to the Rules laid down in the 6th
Chapter, as to the manner in which the correspondence with the Secretary
of State should be conducted.



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FILE: 1852-08-09_Barclay_to_Pakington_V525HB15.txt
================================================================================

In the absence of the Governor of the Hudson's Bay Company I have
the honour to hand you enclosed herewith a packet, addressed to the late
Secretary for the Colonies, which has been transmitted to the Hudson's
Bay House by the Governor of Vancouver's Island.



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FILE: 1852-08-09_Blanshard_to_Pakington_V526B02.txt
================================================================================

I beg to acknowledge the receipt of a letter from the Colonial
office dated 5 August 1852, to the effect that the present Governor of
Vancouvers Island has stated that I left no copies of my official
correspondence with the Secretary of State, among the public documents
transferred to him on my retirement from the government, and further
inferring that I have withdrawn such copies, desiring me to send them to
the Colonial Office that they may be forwarded to Vancouvers Island.

In reply, I beg to inform you that the copies or originals of my
whole official correspondence as Governor of Vancouvers [Island] were
left by me among the documents which on my retirement I transferred to
the council, of which Mr Douglas was the Senior Member, if now
missing, they must have been abstracted since that transfer. So far
from being able to furnish fresh copies of that correspondence, I
applied to Lord Grey in a personal interview I had with his Lordship on
my return from Vancouvers Island for leave to copy parts of the
correspondence, my own papers having been destroyed by the loss of a
boat in crossing the Isthmus of Panama on my journey home, his Lordship
gave me a conditional permission, but I did not avail myself of it, as
circumstances did not render it necessary.



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FILE: 1852-08-14_Trevelyan_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525TE02.txt
================================================================================

Trevelyan to Merivale (Permanent Under-Secretary)

With reference to Mr Elliot's Letter of the 12th Instant I am
commanded by the Lords Commissoners of Her Majesty's Treasury to
request that you will state to Secretary Sir John Pakington that the
Instructions proposed to be given to the Governor of Van Couver's Island
with respect to the rights of the Crown in Queen Charlotte's Island,
being in conformity with those already issued for the Australian
Colonies, My Lords do not object to their being transmitted to him, as
proposed by Sir John Pakington; but They think it may be desirable to
point out to the Governor of Van Couver's island the necessity of
keeping the Sums received on account of Licenses to search for Gold in
Queen Charlotte's Island, separate and distinct from any other Revenue
that may be received in the Colony.



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FILE: 1852-08-16_Hamilton_to_Elliot_Assistant_Under-Secretary_V525AD06.txt
================================================================================

Having laid before my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty your
Letter of the 12th Instant transmitting a Copy of the Instructions
which Secretary Sir John Pakington proposes to issue to the Governor of
Van Couvers Island, relative to Queen Charlottes Island, I am commanded
by their Lordships to acquaint you for the information of Sir John
Pakington that a Copy of your Letter and its enclosure have been sent to
Rear Admiral Moresby for his information.



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FILE: 1852-08-19_Gray_to_Pakington_V526G01.txt
================================================================================

Being deputed by my Brother Francis Gray, and his partners Ant[on]y
Easterby and Matthew Rooney, British Subjects & Merchant Traders
resident in San Francisco, California, to state that on the 23rd of
June 1852, Matthew Rooney discovered a vein of Goldbearing Quartz in
Queen Charlotte's Island, situate in a Bay called by the natives Gold
Harbour, in Latitude 53o 1' North, Longitude 131o 119' West or
thereabout, bearing S.W. by S. 3/4 So. from the eastern headland of the
entrance of the Bay, and N.W. by W. 1/4 W. from an Island situate in the
head of the Bay, on which they have erected a house. The said Quartz
Vein extends from the beach inland in a S. S. Westerly direction, and as
it can only be worked by the outlay of large capital, in regular mining
operations and the application of powerful machinery, I have been
directed to apply to you for the grant of a lease to Francis Gray,
Anty Easterby and Matthew Rooney, of such a portion of the land in
the said Gold Harbour Bay as will include the gold vein for a sufficient
length to warrant them in making the necessary outlay; the lease
reserving to the Crown such Royalty or Dues as may be customary or
fairly proportioned to the circumstances of the case. The limits or
boundaries which I would propose for the area to be granted, are as
follow, a length of 800 yards on the course of the vein and a breadth of 200 yards, being 100 yards on each side of the vein.

I have letters in confirmation of the facts which I have stated,
and also an attestation signed by Geo. Aiken [Aikin] Esre her
Majesty's Consul at San Francisco.

I am personally known to,
4
John Gurney Hoare Esqre, Banker,
62 Lombard St.
James Cunliffe Esqre, Banker,
24 Lombard St.



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FILE: 1852-08-20_Pakington_to_Douglas_V527104.txt
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No. 4

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatch of the 28th
of May last, and to convey to you my approval of the judicious measures
which you adopted for the protection of the Roman Catholic Priest and I
concur in the propriety of discouraging the formation of Missionary
Stations beyond the limits of the station.



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FILE: 1852-08-23_Taylor_to_Elliot_Assistant_Under-Secretary_V526T01.txt
================================================================================

My Brother Mr Richard Taylor has already communicated with you
as he informed me before he left London, upon the subject of an
application from Mr Nutter Gray on behalf of his Brother & others for
a Lease of a Gold Vein discovered in Queen's Charlotte's Island in the
North Pacific ocean.

I now beg to enclose a formal letter of application from Mr N.
Gray to Sir John Pakington which my Brother & I shall feel much obliged
to you to place in his hands.



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FILE: 1852-08-25_Barclay_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525HB16.txt
================================================================================

Memo, Barclay to Merivale (Permanent Under-Secretary)

Mr Barclay presents his Compliments to Mr Merivale and
begs to acknowledge the Receipt of his note of the 20th Instant,
accompanying a packet addressed to the Officer Administering the
Government of Vancouver's Island. The vessel by which the packet was to
have been forwarded, had it reached the Hudson's Bay House on time,
sailed from Gravesend early in the morning of the 20th, and as no
other vessel belonging to the Company will leave England for Vancouver's Island before the Month of October, Mr Barclay begs to be informed
whether Mr Merivale wishes it to be retained at the Hudson's Bay
House till then, or returned to the Colonial Office.

Hudson's Bay House

August 25th 1852



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FILE: 1852-08-27_Douglas_to_Pakington_V52107.txt
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[No. 7]

Since I had last the honor of addressing you on the 22nd Inst

I have carried out the project which I have long entertained, of a canoe
expedition through the Canal de Arro, and along the east coast of
Vancouver's Island, for the purpose of examining the country and of
communicating with the native Tribes, who inhabit that part of the
Colony, and I will now concisely state the result of my observations, in
the course of that Journey.

In our passage through the Canal de Arro, we were struck with the extreme incorrectness of Arrowsmiths Map of Vancouver's Island. The
line of coast is well delineated, and could be traced upon the map, as
far as the promontory named "Cowetchin head," but from that point, all
resemblance to the coast ceases; the mutlitude of Islands forming the
Arro Archipelago, which extend as far as, and terminate at "Cala
descanso", being laid down as an integral portion of Vancouver's Island,
whereas the true line of coast runs from 15 to 20 miles west of its
position as laid down, on that map, the intermediate space being
occupied by Islands, and channels of various breadths, generally
navigable, but probably inconvenient for sailing vessels, on account of
the strong currents and frequent calms, which occur in those narrow
waters. A correct survey of those channels will remove many of the
difficulties, that would at present be experienced by sailing vessels
navigating those straits, and should Her Majesty's Government, at any
time direct surveys to be made in this quarter I think the Arro
Archipelago will be found to have peculiar claims to their attention, as
there is a prospect of its soon becoming the channel of a very important
trade.

On our route through the Canal de Arro we touched at the
Cowegin River, which falls into that Canal, about 20 miles north of
Cowegin head, and derives its name from the Tribe of Indians, which
inhabit the neighbouring country.

They live in several villages each having a distinct chief, or head-
manheadman, who cannot be said to rule the community which acknowledges his
supremacy, as there is no code of laws, nor do the chiefs possess the
power or means of maintaining a regular government; but their personal
influence, is nevertheless very great, with their followers. The
Cowegins are a warlike people mustering about 500 fighting men, and the
total population is about 2100 Souls.

They were extremely friendly and hospitable to our party, and gave
us much information in regard to the interior of the country; which by
their report appears to be well watered, and abounding in extensive
tracts of arable land.

The Cowegin River rises in a Lake within a few hours journey of the
Salt-water arm of Nitinat (Barclay's Sound) on the west coast of
Vancouver's Island, and is navigable for canoes to its source. Those
Indians partially cultivate the alluvial Islands near the mouth of the
River, where we saw many large and well kept fields of potatoes, in a
very flourishing state, and a number of fine cucumbers which had been
raised, in the open air, without any particular care.

About 10 miles north of the Cowegin, the Chemanis River enters
the Canal de Arro, it is altogether a smaller stream, than the former,
and is navigable to a short distance only from the coast. It is
inhabited by a branch of the Cowegin Tribe, whom we did not see.

As we proceeded north from the Cowegin River, a complete change
was observed in the physical character of the country, the primitive and
transition rocks of the Victoria District, being replaced by the
sand==stonesandstone formations; in some places falling with a gentle slope, in
others presenting precipitous cliffs towards the sea.

The PromotoryPromontory of Cala Descanso is the northern point of the
Arro Archipelago, beyond which is the Inlet of Wentuhuysen, to which
point my attention was particularly attracted, through a report of coal
having been seen by the Indians in that vicinity. These people are
called "Nanymo", and speak nearly the same language, but have not the
reputation of being either so numerous or warlike in their habits, as
the Cowegin Tribe.

We entered into immediate communication and found them very
friendly and disposed to give every information, we desired, in regard
to all matters concerning their own affairs, and the country which they
inhabit.

They live chiefly by fishing, and also grow large quantities of
potatoes, in fields which they have brought into cultivation near their
villages. Those are built chiefly on a river, named "Nanymo" after the
Tribe, which falls into the Inlet, and is navigable for Canoes to the
distance of 40 miles from the sea coast. Food is cheap and abundant,
and we were plentifully supplied with fresh salmon, and excellent
potatoes during our stay there.

The reports concerning the existence of coal in that place,
were I rejoice to say, not unfounded; as the Indians pointed out, three
beds, cropping out in different parts of the Inlet; and they also
reported that several other beds, occurred on the coast, and in the
interior of the country which we did not see. One of those beds
measured 57 3/4 inches in depth, of clean coal, and it was impossible to
repress a feeling of exultation in beholding, so huge a mass of mineral
wealth, so singularly brought to light by the hand of nature, as if for
the purpose of inviting human enterprise, at a season when coal is a
desideratumdesired in the Pacific, and the discovery can hardly fail to be of
signal advantage to the Colony. The two other seams which we examined,
were about 3/4 of a mile distant from the former, and measured
respectively 3 inches and 20 inches in depth, and are valuable cheifly
as indicating the direction of the beds.

There is every reason to believe from the appearance of the
country, and its geological phenomena, that Vancouvers' Island about
Wentuhuysen Inlet, is one vast coal field, and if that conjecture be
correct the progress of the Colony, will be rapid and prosperous;
notwithstanding the many adverse circumstances, which have hitherto
retarded the development of its resources.

That consideration induces me to offer a few remarks on the
navigation of the Coast, between Victoria and Wentuhuysen Inlet. The
shortest and most direct route between those points, is through the
Canal de Arro, a part of the coast of which little is known, and judging
from the maps in my possession, which has never been correctly surveyed.
Merchant vessels are therefore deterred from taking that route and
follow the circuitous channel explored by "Vancouver" in the year 1795,
which greatly prolongs the voyage, making the difference of nearly a
week, in point of time, on a short run of 140 miles.

It is therefore of the very greatest importance to the trade of
this colony that the Canal de Arro, should be explored, and a correct
survey prepared as soon as possible, shewing the soundings, shoals and
anchorages where ships may bring to, in calms, or during the continuance
of adverse winds; and I beg most earnestly to recommend that measure to
your consideration; especially as Her Majestys Government, would thereby
render an essential service not only to this Colony, but to the general
interests of trade and navigation.

Our excursion did not extend beyond the Inlet of Wentuhuysen,
from whence we commenced our return to Victoria, after distributing small presents to the chiefs of the various Tribes, with which they
appeared highly satisfied.

In the course of that journey we observed traces of iron
stone, in several parts of the coast, and we also procured a rich
specimen of Copper ore, found in a distant part of Vancouvers Island,
which will be hereafter examined.

The Hudsons Bay Company's Schooner "Cadboro" lately visited
the coal district in Wentuhuysen Inlet, and succeeded in procuring, with
the assistance of Indians, about 50 Tons of Coal, in one day. The
harbour is safe and accessible to vessels of any class, and the coal is
within 2 cables length of the anchorage, so that every circumstance
connected with this valuable discovery is suggestive of success.

The Hudsons Bay Company have also sent a small body of Miners to
examine the coal beds and to commence immediate operations there.

Her Majesty's ship "Thetis" arrived at Esquimalt, on the
22nd Inst direct from Queen Charlottes Island, and I believe
Captain KuparKuper has orders from the Commander in Chief to remain
on this coast, till the month of January next; chiefly with the view of
guarding the Ports of Queen Charlottes Island. The gold diggings in
that quarter have not been productive this season, which has not however
altered the general opinion entertained as to its wealth in the precious
metals; the Adventurers ascribing their late want of success simply to
the circumstance of the true beds not having been discovered.

Fine specimens of lead and copper ore, have also been procured on
Queen Charlottes Island, which, in a commercial view, gives it an
additional value.



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FILE: 1852-08-30_Blanshard_to_Pakington_V526B03.txt
================================================================================

I regret that my absence from Town has prevented my sooner
acknowledging your communication of 13 August 1852.
[Marginal note. Perhaps from Mr. Pakington. There is no official
Communication of this date. ABd]
I now beg to forward you the document to which I alluded, being a
memorial or address signed by every settler except one on Vancouvers Island; it was presented to me when on the immediate point of leaving
the Island and I did not deposit any copy among the Colonial documents
which I left there as the very nature of the memorial would draw down
upon all who had signed it the ill will and oppression of the Hudson Bay
Company's Servants, into whose hands the government of the Colony was
passing.



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FILE: 1852-09-25_Barclay_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525HB17.txt
================================================================================

Memo, Barclay to Merivale (Permanent Under-Secretary)

Mr Barclay presents his Compliments to Mr Merivale and begs to
acknowledge having this day received his note dated Septr./52, and also
a packet for the Governor of Vancouver's Island, which he will forward
by the earliest opportunity.



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FILE: 1852-09-27_Hamilton_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525AD07.txt
================================================================================

I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to send
you herewith, for the information of Secretary Sir John Pakington,
Copies of a Letter dated the 23rd July last from Captain Kuper of Her
Majesty's Ship "Thetis", and of its enclosures, containing intelligence
respecting Vancouver and Queen Charlotte Islands.



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FILE: 1852-09-27_Pakington_to_Douglas_V527105.txt
================================================================================

No. 5

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatches of the 29th
January, and 11th February last, reporting generally upon the state of
affairs in Queen Charlotte's Island consequent upon the recent discovery
of Gold in that quarter of the British Dominions.

I have first to signify to you my approval of the proceedings which
you adopted to obtain redress from the Cape Flattery Indians for the
atrocities committed on the Crew of the "Una" which was wrecked in
"Neah Bay" in December last, and my satisfaction at learning that the
dreadful punishment which you report to have been inflicted on the
Indians concerned in the plunder of the Vessel was not sanctioned by
any British Officer, but was carried into effect by order of the Chief
of the Tribe, before the arrival of the Ship despatched to demand
reparation.

2. I have to inform you that Her Majesty's Government having taken
into their serious consideration the measures, which the discovery of
Gold in Queen Charlotte's Island seems to require for the protection
of British rights, and the preservation of order, have determined on
furnishing you with a Commission (which is herewith sent) as Lieutenant
Governor of that Settlement. You will distinctly understand that Her
Majesty's Government have no intention to sanction by this Instrument
the impression that they have any design of colonizing the Country, or
placing any establishment in it. The Commission is issued solely to
meet the circumstances of the time. It conveys to you no power to make
Laws, or to constitute a regular Government, but it gives the party
bearing it a position of authority as representing Her Majesty's
Government in the district, which is both important and valuable.

3. It will be satisfactory to you to learn that Her Majesty's
Government have directed the Commander in Chief of Her Majesty's Naval
Forces on the West Coast of America to take immediate steps for the
protection of British Interests against the depredation of Indians, or
the unwarranted intrusion of Foreigner's on the territory of the Queen,
and I trust it may further be in the power of the Admiral to comply with
your application for a Steam Vessel. I transmit herewith for your
information and guidance the Copy of a Letter and its Enclosures, from
Lord Stanley, one of the under Secretaries of State for Foreign Affairs,
from which you will perceive that the Earl of Malmesbury has addressed a
communication to Her Majesty's Minister at Washington, which it is hoped,
will have the effect of inducing the Government of the United States to
exert themselves to prevent aggression by American Citizens on English
rights. It will of cours. devolve on you to punish, according to Law,
or forcibly to expel from Queen Charlotte's Island any foreigners who
may infringe British regulations or violate British Territory.

4. The property both in Land and Mines in Queen Charlottes
Island, being unquestionably the Crown's, the Crown can delegate to you
the power of granting Land, on issuing Licenses for procuring Gold.
But, it is not the intention of Her Majesty's Government that any such
grants conveying a permanent interest in land should be made for the
present; although you may permit parties to occupy defined portions of
the Soil if you find it advisable. It must be on the understanding
that no title is thereby acquired, until you have reported to me on the
state of things in the Island, and received further instructions; but
with respect to the issuing of licenses, your experience may perhaps not
be so extensive. I therefore send you copies of two papers [Marginal
note. February 1852. June 1853]
which have
been lately presented by command of Her Majesty to Parliament relating
to the recent discovery of Gold in Australia, from which you will
derive very valuable information as to the course of procedure adopted
by the respective Governors in that Country for granting Licenses to
persons to prosecute the search for Gold. You will find the principal
information on this subject at Pages 70 and 71 of the Parliamentary
Paper of February and at Pages, 20, 21, 54, 55 in that of June, and
will frame such Regulations as you may deem practicable and advisable
for granting Licenses for collecting gold upon the principle of those
which you will find from the correspondence have been granted to the
Australian Colonies. You will therefore understand, that your power
extends to granting licenses, on such terms and for such period as you
may think proper, to persons intending to search for Gold in the Island;
and that in cases of any violation of the right which such Licenses give,
or any unauthorized search taking place, you are to claim the support of Her Majesty's Officers who may be within reach, to enforce your
authority. At the same time these powers are entrusted to you, subject
to your own discretion as to the means of employing them, and if you
find that any better means of maintaining the Crown's authority over the
Mines, presents itself, you can provisionally adopt it subject to the
approval of Her Majesty's Government. You will take care to transmit to
me copies of the Regulations which you shall frame, and report to me
from time to time the progress of events arising out of this fresh
discovery of Gold in the Queen's Dominions; and you will keep the Sum
received on account of Licenses, which you may issue, separate and
distinct from any other Revenue that may be received in the Colony.

5. You have suggested in your Despatch of the 29th January that
it would be highly desirable to exclude the Vessels of Foreign Powers
from the Trade which is opening itself in Queen Charlotte's Island, so as
to confine it to National Vessels alone. On this proposal I have merely
to inform you that Her Majesty's Government would not be justified under
the existing state of the Law in resorting to any measure of this
description.

6. In conclusion I have to state that Her Majesty's Government
would have been glad to have furnished the Officer in command of the
Vessel or Vessels, which Admiral Moresby may have in his power to
detach to Queen Charlottes Island, with a Commission of the Peace. But, the difficulty is to know to whom such a Commission should be granted,
as it is impossible to foresee in this Country what Officer Admiral
Moresby may find it convenient to employ upon the service. It is clear
however that Queen Charlotte's Island being out of your Commission, you
do not possess the power of granting Commissions of the Peace in that
Settlement, though the Crown can do so, under the authority of the
Imperial Act 1 & 2 George 4th Cap 16, Sec. 10 notwithstanding the
concurrent power which is vested in the Governor General of British
North America. In consequence of the difficulty to which I have above
adverted, it is not, at all events at present, in my power to give you
positive instructions or information as to the issuing a Commission of
the Peace in Queen Charlotte's Island. But any Report from yourself
specifying persons to whom you think such a Commission should be given
(with a full description of their names so as to enable the Commission
to be properly drawn up) will receive immediate attention.



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FILE: 1852-09-30_Boys_to_Pakington_V526B04.txt
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I have the honour to inform you that I have received a letter from
my nephew the Rev. R.J. Staines, Chaplain of Victoria, Vancouver's
Island, communicating various particulars respecting the discovery of
gold in Queen Charlotte's Island, and detailing some transactions of a
questionable character, which he regards as affecting the rights and
interests of the British Crown. His letter is dated July 6.

Mr Staines has forwarded specimens of the gold by different
hands for the inspection of the British Government. He has corresponded
on the subject with H.B.M. Consul General of the Pacific, having been
previously requested by that functionary to forward all attainable
information respecting Queen Charlotte's Island and the adjacent coasts.
He has also been in communication with H.B.M. Consul at San Francisco,
and through him with the British Admiral, who, on receiving the
particulars forwarded, dispatched H.M. Ship Thetis to Queen Charlotte's
Island.

Under the impression, however, that his letter to me might possibly
anticipate other communications, Mr Staines suggests the propriety of
my taking measures to lay it before the Colonial Office. Should you be
pleased to forward me any directions upon this subject, I should be
happy to attend to them.



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FILE: 1852-10-02_Barclay_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525HB18.txt
================================================================================

Memo, Barclay to Merivale (Permanent Under-Secretary)

Mr Barclay presents his Compliments to Mr Merivale, and begs
to acknowledge the receipt of his note of yesterday's date, accompanied
by a bag of Despatches for the Governor of Vancouver's Island, which
will be forwarded by the first opportunity.

Mr Barclay encloses herewith a Despatch from the Governor to
Earl Grey which reached the Hudson's Bay House today in the dilapidated
form in which it appears. The Despatch, as well as other documents
enclosed in the same envelope with it, seems to have by some accident
been immersed in water.



================================================================================
FILE: 1852-10-08_Cooper_to_Pakington_V526C01.txt
================================================================================

I most respectfully beg to tender this for your consideration, and
in doing so I trust you will not conclude that I have unnecessarily
troubled you. On the 30th of August 1851 on the resignation of
Governor Blanshard I was duly sworn a member of council of the Government of
this colony.

At a council convened on the 5th of October 1852, His Excellency
James Douglas Governor, moved the following resolution.

That we consider it derogatory to a member of Council to be a
retail dealer of spirituous liquors or to follow any calling
that may be subversive of order or injurious to public morals.
To which I assented in the abstract, but proposed the following
amendment.

That, it is highly derogatory to the Council to pass any resolution
which is virtually aimed at any individual member of the same council,
and accordingly that the foregoing resolution is hereby expressly
declared not to be intended to affect either directly or indirectly any
individual member of the present council, but is intended merely as the
expression of a purely abstract opinion in the most general terms.

This Amendment was rejected, and the Governor also informed the council that it was his intention to transmit a copy of the foregoing
resolution to the Authorities in "England".

I find it necessary to enter more into detail of these particulars
than I anticipated, and solicit a further hearing, feeling that my
official duties as member of council are attacked, and that my private
character would thereby be seriously injured.

I am a resident Colonist in Vancouvers Island (in fact the only
Colonist from "Great Britain" unconnected with the H.B. Co.) and
as general dealer or Merchant, Spirituous liquors are sold by me
according to the standard rule in Her Majestys dominions in quantites
not less than two gallons which constitute a wholesale dealer and not as
implied in the resolution a retail dealer.

Up to this date no law exists in the colony to prohibit the sale
of spirituous liquors in any shape. On the contrary three
licenses have been issued by Governor Douglas for the sale of spirits of
which number I hold one, having accepted it when the Governor
spontaneously recommended me to do so. I have every reason to
believe that the above is the result of a premeditated Scheme to obtain my withdrawal from the Council, as the vacancy could be filled with
individuals more congenial to the wishes of the Hudson Bay Co.

Trusting for an impartial judgment



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FILE: 1852-10-11_Boys_to_Desart_Parliamentary_Under-Secretary_V526B05.txt
================================================================================

In reply to your Lordship's Communication of the 9th instant I
have the honour to state that the Rev. Mr Staines's letter, in
addition to various particulars respecting Vancouver's Island, and the
existence of gold in Queen Charlotte's Island, contains some statements
relative to a supposed remittance of gold to England, not on account of
Her Majesty's Government, as far back as September 1850, and also
mentions a reported attempt to obtain a cession of Queen Charlotte's
Island, accompanied by a probable concealment of the value of the
solicited grant.

It appears by Mr Staine's letter that it had the benefit of a
revision by some of the officers of H.M.S. Thetis, after their visit to
the auriferous district, and that it may therefore be regarded as
possessing the general sanction of their approval.

Having no means of determining what portion of the statement is of
value, and what unimportant, I have felt it best to forward the
communication entire, and have now the honour of enclosing it, trusting
that the circumstances of the case will be deemed a sufficient apology for the non-official style of a private letter.



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FILE: 1852-10-14_Addington_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525FO04.txt
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I am directed by the Earl of Malmesbury to transmit to you, for the
information of Secretary Sir John Packington [Pakington], the
accompanying Copy of a Despatch from Her Majesty's Consul at San
Francisco, reporting the arrival at that Port of Her Majesty's Ship
"Thetis," from Vancouvers and Queen Charlotte's Islands, and giving the
substance of information brought by the Commander and Officers of that
Vessel, respecting the existence of Gold in the latter Island.



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FILE: 1852-10-20_Hamilton_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525TE03.txt
================================================================================

I am commanded by the Lords Commissoners of Her Majesty's Treasury
to transmit copy of a letter from the Secretary to the Admiralty dated
1t instant, relative to the expence incurred in providing a passage
on board Her Majesty's Ship "Daphne" for His Excellency Richard
Blanshard, Governor of Vancouvers Island to the northern settlements of
that Island, and I am to request that you will move Secretary Sir John Pakington to inform my Lords whether this expence is not properly
chargeable to the Hudsons Bay Company.



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FILE: 1852-10-22_Stafford_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525AD08.txt
================================================================================

I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to
transmit to you, for the information of Secretary Sir John Pakington,
the copy of a letter from Rear Admiral Moresby dated 30th August last
No 76, and of its enclosures relative to his proceedings in regards
to Queen Charlotte's and Vancouvers Island.



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FILE: 1852-11-04_Stafford_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525AD09.txt
================================================================================

I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to send
you herewith for the information of Secretary Sir John Pakington Copies
of a Letter from Rear Adml Moresby dated the 14th of September
last No 91 and of its several enclosures reporting the proceedings of
Her Majestys Ship Thetis at Queen Charlotte's and Vancouver's Islands.



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FILE: 1852-11-11_Douglas_to_Pakington_V52108.txt
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[No. 8]

I had last the honor of addressing you on the 27th August, and
have now to report that the ‸graingrain crops in the several Districts of this
Colony were secured in good condition. The wheat land generally yielded
a fair return, averaging about 23 Bushels to the acre, but the oats were
thin and deficient both in grain and straw, in consequence of a
remarkably dry summer, which also greatly injured the potatoe and other
green crops. Those useful esculents have however been raised in
sufficient abundance to meet the wants of the Colony, and even to afford
a quantity for exportation, but I have ascertained that there is a
deficiency of bread stuffs, which must be made up by timely importations
from abroad.

I reported in my last letter the important discovery of Coal lately made
on Wentuhuysen Inlet, or more properly speaking Nanaimo Harbour, on the
east coast of Vancouver's Island. The researches since made by the Miners of the Hudson's Bay Company have confirmed the opinion then
formed of the vast mineral wealth of that District of Vancouver's
Island. About 1 1/2 miles from the great bed mentioned in my last
letter the natives, who are now indefatigable in their researches for
Coal, lately discovered a magnificent seam over 6 feet in depth,
cropping to the surface on New Castle Island, where several thousand
Tons of Coal may be procured without the trouble & expense of Mining.
Such places are left entirely to the Indians, who work with a surprising
degree of industry, and dispose of the Coal to the Agents of the
Hudson's Bay Company, for clothing and other articles of European
manufacture. The Miners of the Hudson's Bay Company have carried down a
shaft, at a short distance from the coast, and struck the great seam, on
the 6th Inst at the depth of 48 feet below the surface, an event
which has diffused a general feeling of satisfaction in the Colony as
every inhabitant naturally takes a lively interest in the success of an
undertaking on which the prosperity of the country, and in a great
measure, his own private interests, so much depends.

We have received no intelligence from Queen Charlotte's Island
since my last communication, and I have not heard of any vessel
proceeding thither from the American Ports in Oregon. The excitement
with respect to the Gold products of the Island was still, by our last
advices very great in California; but I am of opinion that no vessels
will be despatched to that quarter, until spring, as the cold and stormy
climate of the coast in winter is now well known, both in Oregon and
California, and will probably have the effect of detering ship owners
from adventuring their property at that dangerous season of the year.

In respect to the administration of public affairs in the Colony I
have nothing very important to relate. The Government has ‸been hitherto
carried on by the Governor and a Council of three Members, as it was not
considered expedient to enter upon the subject of legislation nor to
call General Assemblies of the Free holders until the population
increases, and there be a sufficient number of persons of education and
intelligence in the Colony, to form the Members of such assemblies. In
the administration of Justice, we follow the Laws of England which
provide fully for every emergency that has yet arisen.

I would except from that remark a local Law regulating the
importation and sale of Spirits, which was passed during the
administration of my Predecessor in Office and was intended to
discourage the Sale of intoxicating drinks, which are the bane of the
settlement and the great source of poverty and crime. That Law had a
salutary effect for a time, and until the settlement of the American
side of the Straits of De Fuca, where there is no restriction on the
sale of Spirits, when the Law became a dead letter, in consequence of
the facility with which it could be evaded and Spirits introduced
clandestinely into the settlement. Drunkeness is now the crying and
prevalent sin of this Colony, and will I fear continue to be so, until a
better and more respectable class of people are sent to the Country, or
a    improvement takes place in the moral tone of the great bulk of
the present population.

There is no want more severely felt at present than the services of
an earnest and zealous clergy, and Her Most Gracious Majesty, could not
in my opinion Confer a greater or more lasting benefit upon Her Colony
of Vancouvers Island, than by making an immediate provision for the
moral and religious instruction of Her faithful subjects in this part of
the world. The Colonists being with few exceptions of the poorer
classes, and destitute of means, stand greatly in need of the fostering
care, and material aid of the mother country, or I should not have drawn
your attention to these wants at present.

Our relations with the Native Tribes, continued in the most
satisfactory state up to the 5th Inst, when an event occurred which I
fear may lead to serious difficulties with the Cowegin Tribe. The event
of which I have reference is the foul and wanton murder of Peter Brown a
servant of the Hudson's Bay Company, by some Cowegin Indians, at one of
the Company's sheep stations, about 5 miles distant from this place,
under circumstances of great atrocity. In such cases we are naturally
led to suspect the existence of some exciting cause, of some previous
injury or provocation, that has tempted the untutored mind of the Savage
to commit a fearful crime, but after the closest investigation of that
case I have not been able to discover any mitigating circumstance
whatever, which can be urged in extenuation of its guilt. The murder of
Peter Brown may be therefore regarded in the light of a mere wanton
outrage, as this unfortunate victim, of savage treachery was known to be
a remarkably quiet and inoffensive young man, the only son of a
respectable widow in Orkney.

The circumstances attending the murder are detailed in my
correspondence with Captain Kuper of Her Majesty's Ship "Thetis" now
fortunately stationed in the neighbouring Port of Esquimalt, of which I
herewith transmit a copy, and I feel gratified in reporting, for your
information, that he has promised to cooperate with this Government, by
means of the force under his command in the measures that may be adopted
for bringing the criminals to justice. It is reported that they have
fled towards the Nanaimo Country, with the intention of taking refuge
among their friends in that quarter, and a force will be sent as  soon as we collect the means of transporting it, to that part of the coast, to
apprehend them wherever they may be found, as the peace and quiet of the
Colony will be best preserved by bringing them to justice with as little
delay as possible. Messengers were despatched to the Cowegin Chiefs on
the 7th Inst to demand the surrender of the criminals, and they
 have just returned accompanied by Soseeah the Chief, who possesses the
greatest degree of influence with that people.

I had a conference with him to day on the subject of the murder,
and he expresses the utmost regret, that such an unhappy event should
have taken place, as his people are not disposed to quarrel with the
whites to whom they are under so many obligations, and he assured me
that all his Tribe, with the exception of one little party called Thlim
Thlimelits, who are related to one of the assasins have
resolved to give up the murderers, and should the latter attempt to
screen them from justice, the rest of the Tribe are not disposed to aid
or assist them in any manner in resisting the Queen's authority.

This is so far satisfactory, as we are desirous as far as possible
to prevent the effusion of blood, and to avoid implicating the Tribe in
the guilt of individuals, acting without their knowledge or consent.

The Thlim Thlimelits may also see the folly of taking part with the
murderers, and shun a contest, which would be disagreeable to us, and
calamitous to themselves.

We are now daily expecting the arrival of the Hudson's Bay
Company's Steam Vessel, and I propose as soon after as possible to
despatch her with a sufficient force to seize the assasins wherever they
may be found.

I shall do myself the honor of advising you from time to time of
our proceedings, which I trust will soon be brought to a satisfactory
issue.

I beg also to communicate for your information, that I have found it
necessary, with the advice and consent of the Council, to appoint an
Officer bearing the Title of "Collector of Her Majesty's Customs for
Vancouver's Island." No salary is attached to the Office; as from the
circumstance of there being no Customs dues levied in this Colony, its
present duties will not be onerous, and will chiefly consist of entering
and granting clearances to vessels arriving at, or leaving the Ports of
Vancouver's Island. and of causing the observance of Port regulations
and the laws relating to the domestic or foreign trade of the Colony.
Mr James Sangster, a gentleman of worth & experience, has been
provisionally appointed until Her Majesty's pleasure is known.



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FILE: 1852-11-24_Colvile_to_Pakington_V525HB19.txt
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I have the honor to enclose the answer to Lord Desart's letter of
the 2nd July, addressed to the late Sir John Henry Pelly, enclosing
copy of an address to Her Majesty from the House of Commons dated
17th June, and I take leave at the same time to enclose for your
information a detailed statement of the expenditure of £1986.4.9
incurred for Colonization and Improvements.



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FILE: 1852-12-01_Colvile_to_Pakington_V525HB20.txt
================================================================================

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of Lord Desart's
letter of the 27th Ultimo, transmitting to me, for the information of
the Hudson's Bay Company, the copy of a Despatch from the Governor of
Vancouver's Island, reporting the result of a canoe Expedition which he
had made along the East Coast of the Island; and I have to express the
thanks of the Governor and Committee for the communication of this
information.



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FILE: 1852-12-01_Colvile_to_Pakington_V525HB21.txt
================================================================================

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of Mr T.F. Elliot's
letter of the 3rd Instant [ultimo], addressed to Mr Barclay,
Secretary of the Hudson's Bay Company, enclosing an Extract of a letter
from a gentleman residing at Vancouver's Island, relative to the
condition and prospects of that Settlement, on which I have to make the
following observations.

Before proceeding to notice what is stated in this Extract I must
respectfully submit that when the conduct of the Governor and Committee
of the Hudson's Bay Company is thus complained of it would have been
more satisfactory if the name of the writer had been communicated.

There can be no doubt that the system represented to be followed by
the Government of the United States in the disposal of land in the
Oregon territory must retard the settlement of Vancouver's Island, and
with the attraction of the gold district of California, make it
difficult to retain the service of labourers at almost any rate of
wages, but it is evident that no course of conduct on the part of the

Hudson's Bay Company could have prevented this result, and the remedy
suggested by the writer of the letter would tend to enhance the rate of
wages, and make it more difficult, or rather impossible, for persons of
capital to cultivate the land or engage in any business that required
the employment of labourers; for men are not disposed to become hired
servants when they can cultivate their own land.

When the Hudson's Bay Company undertook to conduct the settlement
of the Island, the principle of the measures to be taken for that
purpose were fully discussed with the Secretary of State for the
Colonies, and the price of the land to Settlers, and the condition of
bringing a certain number of labourers into the Island were submitted to
and approved of by him, the plan being considered the best that could be
devised to secure a bona fide cultivation of the land. The price of the
land is 20s/- per acre, of this 1/10th belongs to the Hudson's
Bay Company for their trouble in conducting the sales, and the
9/10ths is held in Trust for Colonial purposes.

With respect to the farms in progress of being established by the
Puget Sound Company, this obligation of bringing in labourers has been
more than fulfilled, and the cases in which it has been relaxed are
those where the purchasers of land were already resident in the country,
and, from their having been in the employment of the Company, it was
expected they might influence the labourers, whose term of service
expired, to take service with them for the cultivation of their lands.
Under existing circumstances it may perhaps be expedient not to insist
on the purchasers of land, to some limited extent say not exceeding 100
acres, bringing in labourers, and if you should be of this opinion, and
shall signify the same, the Directors of the Hudson's Bay Company will
adopt that rule for the future.

It is not true that the Hudson's Bay Company exercise any monopoly
in Vancouver Island. The fishing of the seas, inlets, and rivers is
free to all the inhabitants, and the importation of goods is free to all
the world, and in no case where parties have applied for room in the
Company's ships has it been refused, except for Spirits. The Indians are numerous, and, unless the intercourse with them is carefully and
prudently conducted, would be dangerous; for this reason, as well as for
the sake of the Indians themselves, the use of Spirits has been
prevented, or rather discouraged, as far as the power of the Company can
be exercised. But the Company neither claims the right of, nor
practically exercises any, exclusive dealings with the Indians of the
Island.

The Island is in no respect given over "bound hand and foot" to the
Hudson's Bay Company, except that it is only from them that a title can
be obtained for the land, but the terms on which land can be obtained is
published, and in no case has an application for land been refused on
those terms which are equally applied to all applicants.

The writer of the letter asserts "that persons have been driven off
the Island by the illiberal policy of the Government, literally in one
instance, which I am well acquainted with, by the jealousy of the
Company's agents here, &c." I never heard of any thing that could
justify this assertion, and I do not believe that Mr Douglas, who
holds Her Majesty's Commission as Governor of the Island, would act upon
any such motives. But if the case and circumstances are brought forward
in a tangible shape by naming the party and the accuser, the strictest
enquiry shall be made, and the result reported to you. Perhaps the
better course would be for you to call officially upon the Governor, who
is appointed by the Crown, for an explanation, if you think the bare
assertion of the writer of the letter is worthy of enquiry.

A complaint is made that Governor Douglas was absent from the
Island at Fort Langley; this place is at the mouth of Fraser's River,
and separated from the Island by a narrow channel, and his absence was
only for a few days.

From all these circumstances the animus of the writer may be
inferred.

It is true that no Church or Chapel has been built, but authority
has been given to Governor Douglas to do so when he finds it expedient,
and can accomplish it. The plan of a Church has been sent home, but no
estimate of the expence, otherwise they would have been submitted for
your consideration, as is required to be done before being carried into
execution. In the meantime there are the means of having Divine Service
in one of the buildings in Fort Victoria, and I believe our
instructions, that there should be Divine Service regularly, are duly
attended to.

In 1848 the Revd Robert J. Staines was engaged to conduct a
school for boys, and his wife one for girls. The officers in the
service of the Company subscribed £340 p[er] annum towards this
establishment for the sake of education for their children. The
Hudson's Bay Company granted £100 p[er] annum to Mr Staines to act as
Chaplain to the Company at their establishment at Fort Victoria, and the
Fur trade branch of the Company grant him another £100 p[er] annum as a
contribution towards the Schools.

The Governor and Committee certainly have not assigned a place for
a burying ground, conceiving that this would of course be done by the
authorities on the Spot.



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FILE: 1852-12-01_Colvile_to_Pakington_V525HB22.txt
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I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of Mr Merivale's
letter of the 29th Ulto, addressed to Mr Barclay, Secretary of
the Hudson's Bay Company, transmitting for the information of the
Directors an Extract of a Report made to Vice Admiral Moresby by the
Captain of Her Majesty's Ship "Thetis," relative to the proceedings of
that vessel at Queen Charlotte's and Vancouver's Islands; and I have to
express the thanks of the Governor and Committee for this commmunication.



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FILE: 1852-12-06_Murchison_to_Desart_Parliamentary_Under-Secretary_V526M02.txt
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Murchison to Desart (Parliamentary Under-Secretary)

I have the honor to acknowledge your letter of the 27 November
accompanying an account of an Expedition along the east coast of
Vancouvers Island & I beg your Lordship to convey to Secretary Sir John Pakington the best thanks of the Royal Geographical Society for this
interesting communication which will be read at an early meeting of our
body.



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FILE: 1852-12-08_Barclay_to_Desart_Parliamentary_Under-Secretary_V525HB23.txt
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Barclay to Desart (Parliamentary Under-Secretary)

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of Your Lordship's
letter of the 3rd Ultimo transmitting for the information of the
Directors of the Hudson's Bay Company a Copy of a letter and of its
enclosures from the Board of Admiralty relative to the proceedings of
Rear Admiral Moresby in regard to Queen Charlotte's and Vancouver's Islands; and I am directed to request that you will convey to Sir John Pakington the thanks of the Governor and Committee for this
communication which would have been acknowledged sooner had it not been
accidentally mislaid.



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FILE: 1852-12-08_Heath_to_Under-Secretary_of_State_V526H01.txt
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Heath to Under-Secretary of State

May I beg you will have the goodness to inform me of the proper
official officer to whom I may apply for information relative to the
purchase of lands at a settlement in Van Couver's Island on the coast of
Oregon.

I should esteem it a favor also if you could send me, or direct my
attention to any recent report on the present condition & prospects of that Island.



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FILE: 1852-12-09_Douglas_to_Pakington_V52109.txt
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[No. 9]

I have the honor of trans==mittingtransmitting herewith Duplicate of my Despatch
of the 11th November, with the accompanying Documents.

Our relations with the Native Tribes have undergone no material
change since that date, they have been uniformly quiet and friendly in
their intercourse with the settlement and appear to regret the unhappy
event which occurred last month. We have not yet taken any active
measures to secure the murderers of Brown, owing to the non arrival of
the Hudson's Bay Companys Steam vessel, which except Boats, is the only
means of transport at my disposal capable of conveying an adequate force
to the part of the coast, where the criminals are reported to have taken
refuge; and it would not be advisable, at this inclement season of the
year, to undertake an expedition, of so much importance, in open Boats,
which would neither represent the dignity of the Government nor afford
shelter and protection to the men, and might probably end in disaster
and defeat. I have therefore deferred the expedition until it can be
dispatched with all the means at our disposal.

A question has lately arisen here relative to the sovereignty of
the Islands in the Canal de Arro, situated between Vancouvers Island and
the Continent, to which some American citizens have set up a claim in
the name of the United States.

I propose to lay the question before you in my next despatch and in
the mean time I shall assert the Sovereignty of Great Britain, to all
the Islands in the Arro Archipelago situated to the eastward of
Strawberry Bay, so named by Vancouver, which is the usual ship channel
into the Gulf of Georgia.

I would also observe for the information of Her Majesty's
Government that several American Merchant vessels were engaged last
summer in trafficking with the natives and fishing on the west coast of
Vancouver's Island, the produce of those voyages being carried into the
Ports of California. That traffic is not hurtful to any existing
British interest as there are no settlements on that coast, but as it
may soon become a lucrative branch of British Trade and as it cannot be
carried on by American citizens without a manifest violation of British
Territory, I think it would be advisable to place a check upon such
proceedings, before they acquire, from custom, the force of national
rights.

If such should be Her Majesty's pleasure I beg to receive such
instructions and directions on the subject as may be requisite
for our guidance.



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FILE: 1852-12-09_Stafford_to_Merivale_Permanent_Under-Secretary_V525AD10.txt
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I have received and laid before my Lords Commissioners of
the Admiralty your letter of the 27th of last month
transmitting a despatch from the Governor of VanCouver's Island
detailing the particulars of an excursion, undertaken by him in August
last, from Fort Victoria thro' the "Canal de Arro" to Wentuhuysen Inlet
where coal has been discovered,—and calling their Lordships attention
to the recommendations of Governor Douglas that an Exploration and
Survey of the Eastern coast of the Island should be undertaken by the
Government,—And I am commanded to request that you will state to
Secretary Sir John Pakington that previously to any detailed examination
of the Arro Archipelago and the adjacent coast being made, it would be
desirable that the Governor should encourage some fit persons to make
themselves acquainted with the pilotage of the principal channels and
Ports of the district, with the view of inducing vessels to proceed
there for the coals or other produce. And if it should be found that
the navigation is practicable for large Vessels, the coal-working
profitable, and the embarkation easy, it will doubtless be eventually
desirable for the Government to undertake an adequate Survey of it's
harbours and approaches.



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FILE: 1852-12-18_Pakington_to_Douglas_V527106.txt
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No. 6

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatch of the 27th
of August last, reporting the result of a Canoe Expedition which you had
made along the East Coast of the Island.

I have brought your recommendation with respect to the exploration
and Survey of the Coast under the notice of the Lords Commissioners of
the Admiralty, and their Lordship's are of opinion that preparatory to
making any Survey it would be desirable that some competent persons
should make themselves acquainted with the pilotage of the principal
Channels and Ports of the District, with the view of inducing Vessels to
proceed there for the Coal or other produce.

In furtherance of this suggestion I have to instruct you to take
any steps in your power for giving effect to it, and should it be found
that the navigation of the Arro Archipelago is practicable for large
Vessels, the Coal working profitable, and the embarkation easy, it will
no doubt be eventually desirable for Her Majesty's Government to
undertake an adequate survey of its Harbors and approaches.

