No. 42
10th September 1864
Sir,
I have the honor to forward copy of a correspondence which has passed between Vice Admiral Kingcome and myself respecting the Naval requirements of this Colony.
2. It is almost impossible to overrate the value of the Services rendered to British Columbia by Admiral Kingcome in placing H.M.S. "Sutlej" at mydisposalManuscript image disposal for the conveyance to Bentinck Arm of the Volunteer force enrolled in New Westminster. My despatch No. 37 of the 9th Instant will have informed you of the extent which the Indian Insurrection had taken, and shown that it was rapidly spreading. You will also have learnt that the party of Volunteers under Mr Cox, the only one we had the means of despatching, having reached the enemy's country, found itself unequal to the work which had to be performed. With the Assistance furnished by Admiral Kingcome, however, a second armed party was enabled unexpectedly to penetratetoManuscript image to the interior from the Sea, strike terror into the minds of the Indians, and form a junction with the Expedition from Alexandria in the heart of the Chilicoten Country.
3. Had Admiral Kingcome been earlier in this part of his Station, the lives of Macdonald's party would probably have been saved, and the rising of that portion of the Chilicoten people which obeys averted.
4. I have no doubt that the Legislative Council when in Session will join me in tendering the thanks of the Colony, if not a more substancial evidenceofManuscript image of gratitude to Admiral Kingcome.
I have the honor to be
Sir,
Your most obedient
humble Servant
Frederick Seymour
Minutes by CO staff
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Mr Cardwell
This appears to be sent for information, and I do not see that it requires any action.
TFE 21 Novr
I think a copy shd go to Admy & Governor be informed.
EC 23
Documents enclosed with the main document (not transcribed)
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Vice Admiral John Kingcome to Seymour, 28 May 1864, advising of the disposition of his ships on the station and what assistance could be offered to the colony.
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Seymour to Kingcome, 1 June 1864, describing the current crisis and asking for assistance in conveying a party to Bentinck Arm.
Other documents included in the file
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Elliot to Secretary to the Admiralty, 28 November 1864, forwarding copy of the despatch and enclosures for information.
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Draft reply, Cardwell to Seymour, No. 46, 26 November 1864.