Colonial Despatches

With reference to my despatch No. 10 of 9th February, I have the honor to forward printed copies of the Instructions Reports and Journals relating to the Government Exploration of Country lying tothe the Eastward of Fraser River towards the Columbia River and the Rocky Mountains.

2. The immediate object of the expedition was to determine the best route by way of Fraser River to the Columbia River and the Kootenay District. The result has confirmed the previous impression that the waters of the Great Kam-loops and Shu-swap Lakes are navigable for Steamers and consequently that little more than fifty miles of road will have to be constructed over a comparatively easy country toconnect connect the Columbia with the Fraser by the existing line of Road.

3. It now only remains to continue, as is my intention during the present year, the exploration of the Selkirk Range of Mountains and should the valley partially explored by Mr Turnbull extend to the parent Lake of the Columbia, the important question of the practicability of a route for Road or Railway, through BritishTerritory Territory from Canada to the Shores of the Pacific will be established.

4. With a view of giving every information on this important subject, I have caused the accompanying "Blue Book" to be prepared in as complete a form as possible. I forward herewith several copies, and would beg leave to suggest that they may be transmitted for the information of the Government of Canada.