No. 39
9th September 1864
Sir,
I have the honor to forward copy of a Statement given on the Authority of Mr Duncan respecting the murder of one Indian Constable and the wounding of others by the Master and crew of the Sloop "Random."MrManuscript image Mr Duncan has had as a Missionary more success than anyone else on this coast in civilizing the Indians, and this affair is extremely to be regretted. It will, I fear, create a strong feeling against the Whites.
Admiral Denman has despatched a gun boat in pursuit oftheManuscript image the "Random" and I have sent a surgeon to attend on the wounded men. I made an application to the Governor of Vancouver's Island to assist in the apprehension of Jackson, and the other murderers, should they visit the Colony under his Government. I have likewise made a formal demand on the Governor of WashingtonTerritoryManuscript image Territory for the surrender of the murderers.
The Governor of the Russian possessions has also been written to and I have formal applications ready to be sent to the Governors of Oregon, Idaho and California.
I have the honor to be
Sir
Your most obedient
humble Servant
Frederick Seymour
Minutes by CO staff
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Mr Elliot
This Despatch refers to the Murder of an Indian Constable by the Master & Crew of the Sloop Random & reports the measures taken for their apprehension, but the Governor has unfortunately omitted to enclose the Statement of Mr Duncan.
VJ 18 N
Mr Cardwell
I presume thatManuscript image the printed column of a newspaper contains the statement alluded to.
If the European Smuggler who has killed an Indian Constable be caught and convicted, it is much to be wished that he may receive the only punishment which would be adequate for his offence; and I feel little doubt from Governor Seymour's tone that he would not shrink from the duty of making a proper example.
TFE 21 Novr
Approve.
EC 23
Documents enclosed with the main document (not transcribed)
Manuscript image
Newspaper clipping, unnamed, no date, "The Metlakahtla Outrage."
Other documents included in the file
Manuscript image
Draft reply, Cardwell to Seymour, No. 55, 8 December 1864.
Seymour, Governor Frederick to Cardwell, Edward 9 September 1864, CO 60:19, no. 10603, 210. The Colonial Despatches of Vancouver Island and British Columbia 1846-1871, Edition 2.0, ed. James Hendrickson and the Colonial Despatches project. Victoria, B.C.: University of Victoria. https://bcgenesis.uvic.ca/B64239.html.

Last modified: 2020-03-30 13:22:16 -0700 (Mon, 30 Mar 2020) (SVN revision: 4193)