No. 2, Stekin Territories
18 November 1862
Since the despatch of my communication marked "Separate" of the 23rd August last, there have been frequent arrivals from Stekin, but the complexion of the Mining intelligence is not materiallydifferentManuscript image different from the reports then transmitted, of the Miners who this season resorted to that Gold-field, a small proportion have done well, but in the great majority of cases, their efforts have not been successful.
With the exception of about eighty men who remain there for the winter, the Miners have now all left that part of the country, more, however, it is reported, from want of means to continue their researches, than from despairofManuscript image of ultimate success, as they propose returning thither in the Spring.
2. I have the honour of transmitting herewith, the Copy of a letter, with specimens of the Gold, Silver, and Copper found at Stekin, from Alexander Choquette, the discoverer of that Gold-field, giving his opinion of the mineral resources, and describing the character and agricultural capabilities of the Stekin Valley. His letter is ausefulManuscript image useful communication, and not devoid of interest.
3. I have to announce the return of Her Majesty's Ships "Hecate" and "Devastation," commanded respectively by Captain Richards and Commander Pike, from a cruise to Stekin and other parts of the Coast, to which they were despatched for the protection of Her Majesty's subjects, and especially with a view to the capture of several natives of the Chimseean and Sebassa Tribes, who were accused of the murderandManuscript image and robbery of several white men, a service which was executed with much judgment and humanity by those able Officers, who succeeded in apprehending two of the supposed murderers, and they have been duly committed for trial.
4. Commander Pike also touched at New Archangel, (Sitka), and was received by His Excellency Mr Furuhjelm, Governor of the Russian Possession, with much courtesy and attention. TheaccompanyingManuscript image accompanying is the Copy of a note from Mr Furuhjelm, in reply to my communication of the 6th of August, which I had the honour of transmitting to Your Grace with my Despatch of the 23rd of August.
5. I infer from the tone of that communication that no instructions have been received from St Petersburgh touching the passing of British Ships and property through the Russian Frontier, andthatManuscript image that it is not the intention of the local Authorities to interfere in any manner with the rights now enjoyed by British Subjects, unless under specific instructions from The Emperor's Government.
I have the honor to be
My Lord Duke,
Your Grace's most obedient
and humble Servant
James Douglas
Minutes by CO staff
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Mr Elliot
You will observe the suggestion of the Russian Govr (last enclosure) that a British Vessel should be stationed at the mouth of the Stekin River.
VJ 15 Jan
The Russian Governor's short letter is worth looking at. It is very friendly. As to sending a British Vessel to the mouth of the Stickeen before the end of the season & if a vessel of war be meant, only the Admiral on the spot could do it in time and I presume that the Governor will settle with him anything that may be thought expedient.
Acknowledge receipt?
TFE 17 Jany
N 20
Documents enclosed with the main document (not transcribed)
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A. Choquette to Douglas, 28 September 1862, reporting on events in the Stikeen region, as per despatch.
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Governor Furuhjelm to Douglas, 23 September 1862, expressing his willingness to co-operate with the governor in any way possible.
Other documents included in the file
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Draft reply, Newcastle to Douglas, No. 8, 24 January 1862, acknowledging his despatch.