Barker to Lytton
5 Wattham Cottages
Warner Road
Camberwell
3d Novr 1858
Sir,
Having seen in the Times that Government is sending out Clerks to "New Columbia" I take the liberty of forwarding the enclosed Copy of a Certificate (The Original one from Somerset House having unfortunately been lost by Lady Palmerston) and humbly entreating you Sir toManuscript image grant me a nomination.
I speak and write perfectly French and Italian (The first like a Native, having been educated in Paris) and have passed a Successful examination before the Civil Service Commission. I am also happy to be able to add, that I have always given perfect satisfaction to My Superiors during the two years I was employed in Somerset HouseManuscript image as a Temporary Clerk, and can obtain from them any further Certificate, Should it be necessary.
I have a family wholly dependent upon my exertions for support, and therefore most sincerely trust Sir that you will kindly pardon the liberty I have taken in applying to you.
I have the honour toManuscript image remain,
with profound respect Sir
Your Most humble obedient Servant
F. Barker
Minutes by CO staff
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Mr Elliot
I am not aware that it is Sir E. Lyttons intention to make any appointments of this nature?
VJ 8 Novr
State that there is no intention to send out Clerks to B. Columbia, & that their class is generally described as one peculiarly unfitted to succeed in a new Settlement.
TFE 10 Novr
Annex draft.
C N 11
Documents enclosed with the main document (not transcribed)
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Statement advising that Lady Palmerston had lost the Certificate given to Mr. Francis Barker, dated 20 September 1858.
Other documents included in the file
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Carnarvon to Barker, 18 November 1858, advising that there is no intention to send clerks to British Columbia.