No. 14

With reference to my despatch No. 10 of 9th February,
I have the honor to forward printed copies of the Instructions
Reports and Journals relating to the Government Exploration of
Country lying to the Eastward of Fraser River towards the Columbia
River and the Rocky Mountains.

2. The immediate object of the expedition was to determine
the best route by way of Fraser River to the Columbia
 River and the Kootenay District. The result has confirmed the previous
 impression that the waters of the Great Kam-loops and Shu-swap
Lakes are navigable for Steamers and consequently that little
more than fifty miles of road will have to be constructed over
a comparatively easy country to connect the Columbia with the
Fraser by the existing line of Road.

3. It now only remains to continue, as is my intention during
the present year, the exploration of the Selkirk Range of Mountains
 and should the valley partially explored by Mr Turnbull extend to 
the parent Lake of the Columbia, the important question of the
 practicability of a route for Road or Railway, through British
Territory from Canada to the Shores of the Pacific will be
established.

4. With a view of giving every information on this important
subject, I have caused the accompanying "Blue Book" to be prepared
in as complete a form as possible. I forward herewith several
copies, and would beg leave to suggest that they may be transmitted
for the information of the Government of Canada.