Colonial Despatches
The colonial despatches of Vancouver Island and British Columbia 1846-1871
Public Offices document
Crofton, John to Elliot, Thomas Frederick 2 November 1861, CO 305:18, no. 9812, 366.
Abstract
Public Offices document.
Minutes (2).
Crofton informs Elliot, on behalf of Lewis,
that since the
Volunteer Forceon Vancouver Island consists of only 350 men, Douglas's request for
500 more Rifles,in addition to
the 500 Rifles already supplied,has been denied.
Crofton to Elliot [Assistant Under-Secretary]
2 November 1861
I have laid before the Secretary of State for War your letter of the
14th Ulto forwarding two despatches from the Governor of Vancouver Island requesting that 500 more Rifles may be supplied for the use of
the Colonial Volunteer Corps, and two Field Batteries, with
ammunition &c, complete.
In reply Sir George Lewisdesires
desires me to observe that, as it appears
from the Governor's Despatch of the 8th August, that the total
strength of the Volunteer Force is not more than about 350 men, and
that there is not among them any trained to the use of Artillery, the
500 Rifles already supplied would seem to be sufficient for all the
present requirements of the Colony.
desires me to observe that, as it appears
from the Governor's Despatch of the 8th August, that the total
strength of the Volunteer Force is not more than about 350 men, and
that there is not among them any trained to the use of Artillery, the
500 Rifles already supplied would seem to be sufficient for all the
present requirements of the Colony.
Under these circumstances,the
the Secretary of State must decline to
comply with either of the Governor's request[s].
the Secretary of State must decline to
comply with either of the Governor's request[s].
Minutes by CO staff
I suppose so, but considering the distance before any arms can be
sent when men are raised & trained I cannot consider this a wise
decision.
N
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