Wood to Lytton

Observing from the Bill lately introduced into Parliament that it is in the contemplation of her Majesty's Government to enact the district of New Caledonia into a Colony, I have the honor to offer myself for the post of chief judicial officer, trusting that my education generally & my position at the Bar will be sufficient to entitle me to that distinction.
I am 37 years of age, & was educated at Westminster School & Trinity College Cambridge, having graduated in Honors in 1843, and have a standing of 12 years at the English Bar having practised as a Special Pleader for 5 years, and as a Barrister-at-Law on the Home Circuit and at Surrey Sessions for 7 years, continuously, up to the present time. I may also say that I am used to occupations of an active character, & am desirous of the appointment without reference to the privations which may attend it.
With respect to my qualification for the office I seek, I beg to refer to Mr Baron Bramsach, Mr Justice Willes & Mr Baron Channch [Chaunele?] formerly member of my own Circuit.
I need scarcely add that it is contrary to the practice of the Bench to give testimonials and to the etiquette of the Bar to apply to the Judges. I however feel confident that any reference made to the gentlemen I have named would meet with a satisfactory reply.