No. 25

1. I have the honor to enclose herewith copy of an address
Free tradepetition for
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presented to me in the 12th of Instant by a Committee appointed
for that purpose at a public meeting lately held at this place.

2. I informed the committee in reply to their address that
I had lately returned from the Mines of Fraser's River, and that
there was really no actual distress for want of provisions among the
mining population, in all the accessible parts of the country, and
that care would be taken to provide for all their wants.

3. That I had no authority to throw open the trade of Fraser's
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River, which was secured by Statute to the Hudson's Bay Company, but
that I had addressed Her Majesty's Government on that subject,
recommending the opening of the Fraser's River District for settlement,
and I was of opinion that course would be taken, and compensation be
made to the Hudson's Bay Company for any sacrifice of interest they
may be called upon to make.

4. I also informed them that the progress of this Colony
occupied my careful attention, and that its growing interests would
be carefully protected.

5. I also promised to forward their address.