XML | Preceding document | Next document | Cite this document

Despatch to London
Douglas, James to Pelham-Clinton, Henry Pelham Fiennes 3 December 1862, CO 305:19, no. 1009, 283.

Abstract
Despatch to London. Minutes (2), Enclosures (untranscribed) (1), Other documents (1).
Douglas informs Newcastle that, as negotiations are ongoing, he has declined a request by the Vancouver Island Legislature for copies of all correspondence between the HBC and the government concerning the ownership of land in Victoria.
No. 55, Legislative
3 December 1862
I have the honour to forward herewith copy of a Message I have received from the Legislative Assembly of this Colony, requesting Copies of all Correspondence that may have passed between the Governor and Her Majesty's Government, and the Hudson's Bay Company respecting the Town-site of Victoria.
AsManuscript image
2. As I view this matter as one which is at present confined exclusively between Her Majesty's Government, and the Hudson's Bay Company, and does not just now fall within the province of the Legislature, and as all questions in connection therewith are not yet finally settled, I have declined compliance with the request, and therefore beg to solicit Your Grace's instructions thereupon.
I have the honor to be
My Lord Duke
Your Grace's most obedient
and humble Servant
James Douglas
Minutes by CO staff
Manuscript image
Mr Elliot
See 1011 & 1012.
As the arrangement of this question is not quite completed the Governor had no alternative, I think, except to decline complying with this request of the Leg: Assembly.
Refer to Land Board?
ABd 31 Jany
Refer.
TFE 31/1
Documents enclosed with the main document (not transcribed)
Manuscript image
J.S. Helmcken, Speaker, to Douglas, 1 November 1862, asking the governor to submit the correspondence, as per despatch.
Other documents included in the file
Manuscript image
Elliot to Emigration Commissioners, 2 February 1862, forwarding copy of the despatch and enclosure for their suggestions and observations.