I transmit to you herewith the copy of a letter which I have received from the Board
of Trade submitting for my opinion a representation made by the English Merchants
in the
Sandwich Islands of the importance to the interests of British Commerce of declaring
Victoria in
Van Couver's Island a free port.
I shall be glad if you will give the subject your consideration and
favor me with your opinion as to the feasibility and expediency of
carrying out this suggestion.