No. 10

I transmit an Extract of a letter received through Her Majesty's
Minister at Washington from Dr P.M. O'Brien Port Physician at Port
Townsend stating that Miners proceeding up the river to British Columbia
are compelled to purchase their tools from the Hudson's Bay Company
though previously provided with such articles.

I have to instruct you to report to me whether this statement is
founded on fact, and to furnish me with any information which you may
have it in your power to give on the subject.

In the meanwhile should there be any truth in this alleged
compulsory proceeding of the Hudson Bay Company I feel it incumbent on
me to desire its immediate discontinuance.