No. 31

In obedience to the Instructions conveyed in Your Grace's
despatch No. 67 of the 1st of October 1867, I have fixed upon
a Capital for the United Colony. The Message which I enclose
will shew that I have selected Victoria.

2. There is one circumstance in the affair which I trust you
will pardon: and that is, my having ventured to lay Your
Grace's despatch before the Council. The feeling existing in
both New Westminster and Victoria is so strong on the subject of
the seat of Government that I felt it necessary when acting
in the matter to invoke the assistance of a stronger power than
my own in order to prevent disturbance.

3. I forwarded Your Grace's despatch in the Message I enclose.
I received the following reply. I commenced my despatch with
the final conclusion.

4. I sincerely trust I have acted for the best. I well know I
have secured but present tranquillity.

5. In my own heart I must allow, there was a feeling in favour
of the manly, respectable, loyal and enterprising community
established on the banks of the Fraser.