Taggart to Lytton

I am directed to inform you that a Gentleman, of, I think, the name of "Kerrigan," called at this office, a few days ago, and stated, that he had been requested by you to inquire, whether the Pacific Steam Navigation Company could furnish a Steamer at Panama to convey British Troops to Vancouver's Island, and the reply given to him was, that the Company had not any vessel, at present, which could be spared for that purpose. Since then the Directors, having considered the matter, are of opinion, that one of the Companys' steamers, might be so far disengaged, for a time, as to enable them to offer her for this Service.
The Directors will, therefore, feel much obliged for the favor of a reply, stating the extent of accommodation required for the Service, referred to, and any farther particulars which you may consider necessary.