Despatch to London.
Minutes (2), Other documents (1).
Douglas confirms receipt of correspondence on the approval for the erection of Light Houses on certain of the salient points of the Straits of Fuca
and the approaches to Esquimalt Harbour, noting Captain Richards's essential role in the selection of the proper sites.
I have the honor to acknowledge your Despatch No 63 of the
11th May transmitting for my information and guidance copies of
a correspondence with the Admiralty and other departments of State,
relative to the erection of Light Houses on certain of the salient
points ofof the Straits of Fuca and the approaches to Esquimalt Harbour,
and I feel deeply gratified by the intelligence conveyed in your
Despatch of the intention of Her Majesty's Government to advance the
sum of Seven Thousand Pounds (7000)
for the construction of those important
works, on the condition that one moiety of it shall be repaid by the
Colonies of Vancouver Island and British Columbia jointly, and
measures will accordingly be adopted for thatthat purpose.
2. I observe that you have requested the Board of Trade,
immediately to send out the lanterns and light apparatus, and that
the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty have been requested to
instruct the Naval Officers stationed here, to give me every assistance
to facilitate the work.
4. [sic] I depend greatly on Captain Richards Ret. for the
selection of the proper sites and with him I will associate aa
Committee of Naval Officers and experienced Ship Masters so that
the choice may be made with due care and discrimination.
5. You may also rest assured that no time will be lost in
carrying into effect an undertaking which promises to be so highly
conducive to the commercial progress of the Country.