Merivale to Douglas

In the absence of Mr Labouchere from town, I beg to inform you
that the letter from the War Department respecting the despatch of the
party exploring the line 49° between the British and American
possessions was written from unavoidable circumstances too late for
communication to the Colonial office in the ordinary manner. But I am
to request on the part of Mr Labouchere that you will regard it as
addressed to you with his concurrence.