No. 31

In continuation of my Despatch No 30 of the 1st Augt I have
the honor to acquaint you that after mature reflection, and with
every deference to the opinion of the council I had called,
upon the subject of the occupation of the Island of San Juan by
a body of American Troops, I came to the conclusion that I could
not abandon the Island to such an occupation, and I determined
to land a body of British Troops so that the occupation might at
least be a joint one.

2. For this purpose I addressed a letter of instructions to
Captain Hornby of Her Majesty's ship Tribune, a copy of which I
enclose, but I regret to say that Captain Hornby did not deem it
advisable to carry out those instructions, for the reasons which
will be found detailed in his report.

3. I cannot but regret that circumstance for I feel satisfied
that the absence of a movement of this kind has only increased
the confidence of the occupying party; and it places me in a
difficult position, for so much time having elapsed, the
carrying out of the movement at this period, deprives it of most
of its force.

4. I shall therefore now act as circumstances may demand.

5. The greatest excitement has arisen all over the Country, and
rumours are rife that a large body of men are arming in
Washington Territory, and Oregon to move Northward to assist, if
need be, in the protection of their Flag.

6. I am happy to say that Admiral Baynes arrived at Vancouver's
Island in Her Majesty's Ship Ganges on the 5th Instant, so that
the Naval force, now on the spot, consists of Her Majesty's
Ships "Ganges", "Pylades", "Tribune", "Satellite" & "Plumper."

7. I forward the undermentioned Documents all having bearing
upon the subject under discussion.

Copy of a message I addressed to the Legislative Council and
House of Assembly—Enclosures No 6, 7, 8 and 9.

Copy of a Report from Captain Prevost dated 5th Augt
forwarding correspondence with the United States Commissioner,
Enclosure Nos 10, 11, 12, 13, 14.

I trust you will pardon the brevity of this Despatch, but the
departure of the mail being earlier than was anticipated, I am
much pressed for time.