Alston to Cardwell

I have the honor respectfully to apply to Her Majesty's Government,
on behalf of the Mechanics Institute at Victoria, Vancouver Island,
for a grant of such of the publications of the Commissioners of
Patents as to them may seem most suitable.

If this application be favorably considered, I have also
respectfully to request that the Crown Agents for the Colonies may
be instructed to forward the works to the care of the Government of
Vancouver Island.

I may mention that His Excellency Governor Kennedy is a warm
supporter of the Institute, and that it is the only place in
Vancouver Island or British Columbia where the publications applied
for could be conveniently preserved and made accessible to the
Public.