I have the honor to forward a letter addressed by 
Mr
                  Needham, late Chief Justice of 
Vancouver Island (but still enjoying
               the emoluments of the Office) for "compensation"
for
 for conducting the
               Commission issued by the late Governor to enquire into the causes
               leading to the loss of the Mail Steamer "
Labouchere."  I add a report
               on the application furnished by 
Mr Young, late Colonial
               Secretary of 
Vancouver Island.
               
               2.  It appears that the application was not made during the
               Governorship of my predecessor who directed the enquiry to be made.
               I have informed 
Mr Needhamthat
 that I have referred the matter for
               Your Lordship's consideration.