I am directed by the Secretary of State for War to acknowledge
               the receipt of your letter of 
4th Instant and to acquaint you in
               reply that for the information of His Grace the 
Duke of Buckingham that
               
Sir John Pakington has been pleased, under the circumstances of the
               case, to authorise the payment of the Gratuity of Twenty pounds (£20)
               to which 
William Bowden, late Corporal Royal Artillery, is eligible, as
               a Settler in 
Vancouver's Island, and I am to request that the necessary
               instructions may be given for the issue of the amount through the local
               authorities of the Colony.
               
               I am, however, to request that prior to the payment of this
               gratuity, a Medical Certificate (to be attached to the receipt which
               will be forwarded to this office) may be required from this man
               showing that he is in good health and fit to become a Settler in the
               Colony.