Read to Stanley

It having been announced as the intention of your Lordships
predecessor, to cause an Ethnological Survey of Vancouvers
Island to be made, I am desirous of ascertaining whether or not
your Lordship has determined upon proceeding with the same; as
in the event of the 
appointments not being already made I purpose
submitting to your Lordship my claims for an Engagement thereon.

I am not aware whether the appointments will be made direct from
your Lordship, or mediately through the instrumentality of the
Royal Geographical Society, and I shall feel greatly obliged by
receiving such information as will enable me to forward my
application through the proper Channel.