Barclay to Peel (Parliamentary Under-Secretary)
Hudson's Bay House
15th August 1854
Sir
With reference to your letter of the 24th Ultimo stating that the subject of providing for the services of a Clergyman in Vancouver's Island was under the consideration of the Colonial Department, I am directed to acquaint you, for the information of Sir George Grey, that the Hudson's Bay Company will despatch a vessel for that Island about the 10th of next month.
As it will probably be ten or twelve months before another vessel is sent to the same quarter, and the Colony is suffering great inconvenience from the entire suspensionofManuscript image of all spiritual offices the Governor and Committee are deeply impressed with the importance of embracing if possible the present opportunity to send out a gentleman in holy orders, to the Victoria District, but they cannot take any steps in the matter until they know the decision of Sir George Grey on the proposal submitted to him in the Governor's letter of the 18th Ultimo; they therefore respectfully request that Sir George Grey's views on the subject may be communicated to them with as little delay as possible.
I have the honor to be, Sir,
Your mo obdt Servant
A. Barclay
Secy

Minutes by CO staff
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Mr Merivale
This subject has been referred to the Land Board, & I learn, on enquiry, that it will not be in the power of the Board to report before Monday or Tuesday.
ABd 17 Augt
Put by till then.