Colonial Despatches
The colonial despatches of Vancouver Island and British Columbia 1846-1871
Despatch from London
Cardwell, Edward to Seymour, Frederick 24 February 1865, NAC RG7:G8C/12, 86.
Abstract
Despatch from London.
This document contains mentions of Indigenous Peoples. The authors of these documents
often perpetuate a negative perspective of Indigenous Peoples and it is important
to look critically at these mentions. They sometimes use terminology that is now considered
hurtful and offensive. To learn more about modern terminology pertaining to Indigenous
Peoples, Indigenous ways of knowing, and decolonization, please refer to the Glossary of terms.
Cardwell conveys his approval both of the executions made in connection with the Bute Inlet massacre and of the relief offered to
the starving Indians.
No. 10
Downing Street
24th February 1865
Sir,
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatch No. 69
of the 23rd of November reporting the execution of two chiefs of the
Chilicoten Tribe of Indians, with three of their followers who had taken
part in the recent massacre at Bute Inlet.
It is satisfactory to learn that the law has beenvindicated
vindicated, and I
trust that the effect may be to produce a salutary impression on the
Native race.
vindicated, and I
trust that the effect may be to produce a salutary impression on the
Native race.
I entirely approve the measures of relief towards the starving
Indians which from a sense of humanity, and I doubt not also of true
policy, you have adopted.