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Mapa, plates, charts, etc., may be filmed at different reduction ratios. Those too large to be entirely included In one exposure are filmed beginning in the upper left hand corner, left to right and top to bottom, as many frames as required. The following diagrams illustrate the method: Les cartes, planches, tableaux, etc., peuvent Atre filmis A des taux de rMuctlon diff Arents. Lorsque le document est trop grand pour Atre reproduit en un seui clichA, 11 est film* i partir de Tangle supArieur gauche, de gauche li droite. et de haut en bas, en prenant le nombre d'imagas nAcessaire. Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la mAthode. 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 w^ H wmm %t wv QUEEN CHARLOTTES ISLAND. RCTUKN to an Addrc.is oftlic Honourable 'I lie House of Cominuns, dated i(i June l853;-7/or, "COPIES or EXTRACTS of Corresponoenck relative to the Discovery of Gold at Queen Charlotte's Island" Colonial Office, Downinggtrcct.l July 185a. J FRKDEIUCK PEEL. (Mr. Peel.) Ordered, by The House of Coniiuor.s, to be I'rinted, 19 /«(y 18,53. 78i>. I iii "J S C H E 1) U L E. Numbor ill Scriea. FROM WHOM. 10 II 12 Governor Blanchard (Kxtract.) Governor Dlanchard (Extract.) Governor Douglas ■ ( Extract. ) liarl Grey (Extract) Governor Douglas • (Extract.) H. Merivale, Esq. to Captain Hamilton. Governor Douglas - (Extract.) 788 Hudson's Uay Com- pany, Sir J. H. Pelly. Hudson's Bay Com- pany, Sir J. H. I'elly. Hudson's Bay Com- pany, Sir J. H. Pelly. H. Merivale, Esq., to Captain Hamilton. Captain Hamilton to H. Merivale, Ksq. DATE. 18&0: 18 August - 1851: 29 March - 31 October 1802: 4 February 1801 : 16 December 18S2: 24 Mnreli - 20 .lanuiirv S U n J B C T. 26 March 3 April 3 May 13 May 25 May Page. Reports having seen a very rich specimen iif Gold Ore brought by the Indians of Queen Charlotte's Island . . - Intended Expedition by Hudson's Bay Com- pany with a view to making proper In vestigations Report of Discoveries of Gold in Englcficld Buy ; icsuk of the visit of one of the Hudson's Hay Company's Vessels; United States' Vessels jiroceedipg to the place ; Instructions requested as to the exclusion of I'oi tign Vessels - . . . Stating that it is not expedient to issue a Prohibition again^it (he resort of Foreign j Vessels - - - - - - I Further information respecting United Slates' Vessels proceeding to Queen Charlotte's Island .... On the necessity for Naval Protection In continuation of foregoing Report; inten- tion of Americans from Oregon and Cali- fornia to colonize the Island Discoveries by Hudson's Bay Com- pany's Ship " Una," at Mitchell's Harbour ; result of the workings of a rich Gold Vein ; interference of the Indians . . - - . Remarks on the resort of Foreign Ves- sels ; communication with Admiral on station for protection of British interests, &c. . . . - Forwarding Copy of a Report by Mr. M'Ncdl, a chief trader In the Hudson's Bay Company's service, of the result of the Expedition to Queen Cli'irlotte's Island in the Company's Ship " Una," and stating the extent of the Gold Discoveries there, and the interi option of the work- ings by the Indians . - . . With Extract Report from Officer in charge at Fort Vancouver, on the Columbia River, relative to the excitement of the American population in that quarter, con- sequent on the Gold Discoveries at Queen Charlotte's Island .... Forwarding Copy of a Communication ad- dressed by Governor Douglas to Rear- Admiral Moresby relative to the pro- ceedings and views of American Adventurers in regard to Queen Char- lotte's Island ..... Relative to measures of Naval protection - Orders given for Her Majesty's Ship " Thetis " to proceed to Queen Charlotte's Island - Letter from the British Consular Agent at San Francisco (1st March 1802) containing recent information (continued) [ iv I Number In rnoM WHOM. I) A T K. S U U J E C T. Piyt. BeriM. 1862: 13 novcrnor Douglas - ir, April - Fxcitcmcnl among ijii' Labouring Classes (I'lxlrai!!.) in coi'st(|uenec' of the (iolil Discoveries - Departures nf lliidscn's llay Company and Aiiioricaii V'tssil-,' (or (loUl Harbour ..... H 8 14 Governor Doiijjias - (Extract.) 2S May - In cunlinuiition of the prtcidiiig Keport; arrival of the Hudson's ISay Ccinipany's Hriii " Recovery " at (jueen Charlulfe's Island ; iKwicssioii taken of the Gold Vein at Gold flarbour .... Sub»e(iuent arrival of American Ships; misutcessful Kxpliirations; landingut' Crews; and erection of Block House Arrival of Her Majesty's Ship " 'Ihctis " 'I u ],-> (iyvcrnor Dnuj{lai> 3 August ■ Good cH'ects of the visit of Her Majesty's (lixlrucl.) . Ship "Thetis" Departure of the Americans from Gold Harbour; Repn'Unfroni the Hudson's liiiy Conip.-.iy's parties of the work- ing on the Island are not so satis- factory as antieipated - 16 Captain Hamilton to H. Mcrivalc, Esq. 'J7 Scptrnibcr Forwarding lioport of Captain Kuper (Her iVtajcsty's Ship " Thetis ") on the Gold Workings, kc. at Queen Charlotte's Island, and the proceedings of the several parties ivho have vi.^ited the place ; de. scription of theC ountry and Natives; c.<- plor'Uions, Sic. - - - . . 10 17 Governor Douglas . (Extract.) 27 August - Stating that the Gold Diggings in the Island have not been productive ; but the general opinion as to existing wealth reniainii un- altered ...... Fine specimens of Leuil and Copper Ore have also beiii procured - 12 12 IS The Right 1 lonourablc 27 Scptpml)er Slating the measures determined on by IIi>t Sir John Paklngton (No. 5.) Majesty's Government with reference to to Governor Doug- the recent Gold Discoveries - . . 12 las. (Extract.) Appointment of a Lieutenant Governor of Queen Charlotte's Island Steps taken for insuring Naval protec- tion of British interests against the depredations of Indians, or the intru- sion of I'oreignevs Communications addressed to Her Majesty's Minister at VVasliington - Instructions on llic occupation of Land, and issue of Licenses fur procuring Gold ; precedent of the Australian Colonies - . . . - Question as to the exclusion of Foreign Vessels from the 'I'rade of the Island Issue of Commission of the Peace, &c. &c. 1.1 l.T 13 13 13 It iWH r • 1 CORRESl'ONUECE relative to the Discovery of Gold in Queen Charlotte's Island. - No. I.- KxTKACT of a DESPATCH from Governor lilanchard to Earl Grey ; dated Victoria, Vancouver's Island, 18 August 1850. (deceived 'iO November 1850.) " I HAVK seen a very rich specimen of gold ore, said to have been brought by the Indians of Queen Charlotte's Island, but I have at present no further account of it." No. I. Gov. Blanchtrd to Earl Grey. 1 8 Augiut 1850. — No. 2. — Extract of a DESPATCH from Governor blanchard to Earl Grey ; dated Victoria, Vancouver's Island, 29 March 1851. (Received 8 July 1851.) " I HAVE heard that fresh specimens of gold have been obtained from the Queen Charlotte islanders ; I have not seen them myself, but they are reported to be very rich. The Hudson's Bay Company's servants intend to send an expedition in the course of the summer to make proper investigations." No. 2. Gov. Dlancliard to Earl Grey. 39 March 1851. — No. 3. — Extract of a DESPATCH from Governor Douglas to Earl Grey ; dated Victoria, Vancouver's Island, 31 October 1851. (Received, 19 January 1853.) " I HAVE further to inform your Lordship that the natives have discovered gold in Englefield Bay, on the west coast of Queen Charlotte's Island. One of the Hudson's Bay Company's vessels visited the spot in the month of July last, and succeeded in procuring about 60 ounces of gold, principally by barter from the Indians. One lump of nearly pure gold, weighing lib. U oz., was seen in the possession of one native, who demanded a price beyond its value, so that it was not purchased. Tlie gold is associated with white quartz rock, similar to that of the auriferous deposits in California ; it is yet found in small quantities ; but I am of opinion that it exists abundantly in that and other parts of the island. The report of that discovery having become known in this country, I am informed that several American vessels are fitting out in the Columbia for Queen Charlotte's Island, for the purpose of digging gold — a circumstance to which I would request your Lordship's attention, as it may be the desire of Government to exclude foreign vessels from that part of the coast." No. 3. Governor Douglag to Earl Grey. 31 October 1851. — No. 4. — Extract of a DESPATCH from Earl Grey to Governor Douglas ; dated Downing-street, 4 February 1852. " With regard to the discovery of gold on the west coast of Queen Charlotte's Island, I do not consider that it would be expedient to issue any prohibition against the resort thither of foreign vessels." No. 4. Earl Grey to Governor Douglaa. f February 1852, 788. )1 T mmfm (OUUHSI'ONDKNClv HKI.ATIVK TO THK DISCOVERY No. 5. (iuviriior Diiiiyliis to I'.ail Cirry. l(i Dec. 1H51. — No. 5. — KxTUACT of a 1) lis PATCH from (Jovcnioi- Don/jlii.s to Earl Grci/; datctl Victoria, Vaticouvcr's Ixlaiul, l(i DcoonilMr IHi'il. (Hocoivo.l, a Maroli IHO'J.) "SiNCK I liatl last the honour of athlrcssin^ your Lordship, twt) vchscIs from tlu' Anicrican ports, iu I'ap-t Sound, houud to Uuct-u Charlotte's Island, have touched at this port. Tliey had collectively ahout fiO passengers on hoard, who were going tliithcr for the purpost; of digging gohl : it is also currently rei)ort<'(l, tliat several ves.sels, filled with passengers, have sailed from tlu' ('olumhia and Califonua for the same ((uarter. Their ])resence on the coast will, I fear, he ])roductive of nnieh evil, and lend to serious difficulties with the native trihes. It has also occurred to iiu' tliat those adventurers may jiossihly attemj)t to plunder the Uritish trading ))osts on the ncighhouring coast; and I will further suhnut for your Lordship's consideration the prohahility of their hecoming f(U'niidal)h' from the mere force of numbers, and, should gohl prove abundant, l)Utting (lovcrnment to uuich future trouble and expense in guarding national rights, unless measures arc immediately taken to restrain the subjects of the I'nited Statts and other foreign powers from entering or fornnng settlements on that island." No, f). M. Mi'rivalc, £aq. to Cnptuiii Mainiitoii. !14 Maicli i8i'.'. - No. «. - Coi'Y of a LKTrER from //. Mrrimile, Esq. to Captain Hamilton. Sir, Downing-street, 24 March 1852. I AM directed by Sir John I'akiiigttm to transmit to you for the consideraticm of the Lords Coiimiissio.^ers of the Admiralty, an extract from a des|)atch from the Governor of \ aneouvers Island, reporting the resort to Uueen Charlotte's Island of advi-ntiircrsfrom the Unit<'d States luid elsewhere, and I am to request that you will call their Lordships' attention to the reasons therein alleged for stationing a sliipoi" war off the coast, to protect both national rights and private interests. I am, &c. (signed) //. Mcrivale. M No. 7. (lovtriior Di>uglas to Earl Grey. iQ .lantiary 1852. - No. 7- — Extract of a DESPATCH from Governor Douglas to Earl Grey, dated Victoria, Vancouver's Island, 2!) January 1852. (Received, 3 May 185-2.) " In my conununi(!ation of the Kith December, of which I herewith transmit a duplicate, I informed your Lord.ship that several v< ssels had sailed, and that others were rej)orted to be fitting out, in the Americiin Ports of Oregon and California, for the coast of Queen Charlotte's Island. 'i'heso vessels are charteretl by large bodies of American adventurers, who are proceeding thither for the ])urpose of digging gold ; and if they succeed in that object, it is s.-iid to be their hitcntion to colonise the island, and establish an indeiiendent govermnent, until, by force or fraud, they become annexed to the I nited States. 'I'hey look forward and are prepared to encounter much oppo- sition from Mer Majesty's Government, but they speak very confidently as to their numbers, which can be recruited to almost any desir.able extent, from the floating ])oi)ulation in California ; and the ultimate success of their enterprise is considered by them as a matter admitting scarcely of a doubt. This report is believed, and the chances of success are openly discussed in the best-informed circles ui Oregon. # « # ♦ # One of the Hudson's Bay Company's vessels (the " Una"), which made a voyage to Mitchell's Harbour, on the west side of Ciueen Charlotte's Island, in November OF CJOI.I) AT (ilTJ^X { IIARf.OTTK'S ISLAND. .1 N()vonil)cr liwt, l'li nvcniiciii^!; (il iiiclicH in wicltli, l)f would soon flow into this (H)l(my, which would then nccressarily become a general l)lace of refuge for the shii)i)ing emplo3ed on Queen Charlotte's Island, and find a market for all its farm and agricultural produce, in supplying the miners with food ; on the other hand, if American vessels be admitted, they will draw their supplies, and carry the produce of the mines into their own ports in Oregon and Cahfonda, to the manifest injury of Her Majesty's possessions in those quarters. I have address(!d a conmiunication to Rear-Admiral Moresby,* infomnng him of the inqiortant discoveries made in Queen Charlotte's Island, and requesting him to take such measures as he may deem proper and advisable in the circum- stances for the protection of British interests and national rights." • Page 6. — No. 8. — No. 8. Copy of a LETTEll from Sir J. H. Pdltf to the Right Honourable Sir John Sir j. H. t'ellv i'. Pa^iw^^on, Bart., M.p. to sii^J.s.l'aking. Sir, Hudson's Bay House, 26 March 1852. The Hudson's Bay Company, in the course of their trade with the natives of Queen Charlotte's Island, on the North West Coast of America— a trade to which they have an exclusive right, under a grant from the C^own, dated the 13th May 1838 — having discovered that the natives were in possession of 788. A 2 specimens ton, Bart., M. p. at} March 185'i. 4 CORRESPONUKNCE HIXATIVK TO TMK DISlXJVF.IlY H|>(>(:iincnH of gold ore, whirh they .^niil witi- foiitid on the iMinntI, Intrly H**nt n HiniiU I'XiH'dltioii thither, uiiih-r the coiniiiiuKl of Mr. M'Nt'ill, ii fhief trader in the (!om]mny'H Herviee, to nmkc thu iiecicHMiry iiiveHtiKntiuuH rcHpectitiK thiH diHcovpry, und to eHtAhlinh a tmdiiiK poitt. I have thu honour to enchwe herewith, for tlie inforinntion of Mor MnjoHtv'H (lovernnient, Mr. M'Neill's report of hin procMedinKH, nnd Himll feel ohli^eli if ou will fcrant ine nn interview, with the view of eotiMideriiiK what HtepH Hhoidd )e taken for ohttiining the gold, and particularly for preventing citizeuH of the United StateH from t>'eHpaHHing on Her MajcHty'H ])oHHeHHionH, and infringing the rightH of the HudHon'H Bay ('oni])any. I have, &c. (Higned) J. II. Pelfy. h End. in No. 8, l^lnelosure in No. 8. Sir, Fort SimpHon, 20 Novemla-r 1H61. ArrKR leaving Victoria, I proceeded with tlie " IJim " to ('iiilil your inn'rirctionH of 4tli October ISftl. We liad n fine run to Queen CImrlottc'it Uland of four days, itkei which, u ^BJc of wind came on,wliich detained uHoff the place Cape Henry eit^litduys, consequently we did not anchor in Mitchell's Harbour until the 'iOth October. On the aecond day after our arrival, wc commenced bhuting the rock at thu old place. We commence rich with gold, an you will see by the Hpecimens now forwarded per Doctor Kennedy, Wo followed the vein, and found it detply impregnated with gold. The vein fteemit to take the direction up the mountain. In fact, our men went half way to the top, i«ay 300 feet above the water, and found quartz ruck, u specimen of which I now send you. In my opinion ^oid will be found in many places hereuflcr on the west side of the island, as quartz rock IS to be found in every direction. We found it in four diiferent places in Mitchell s llurbour, but had no time to examine it. I am Horry to inform you that we were obliged to leave nti' blustinjr, and quit the place for Fort Simpson, on account of the annoyance we expe- riencea from the natives. They arrived in large numbers, say UO canoes, and were much pleased to see us on our first arrival. When tiioy saw us blasting and turning out the gold in such large quantities, they became excited, and comuuiicod depredations on us, stealing the tools, and taking, at least, one-half of the gold that was thrown out by a blast ; they would be concealed until the report was heard, and then make a rush for the gold ; a regular scramble between them and our men would take place ; they would take our men by the legs, and hold them away from the gold : some blows were struck on those occasions ; the Indians drew their knives on our men often. The men who were at work at the vein becsme completely tired, and disgusted at their proceedings, and came to me on three different occasions, and told me that they would not remain any longer to work the gold ; that their time was lost to them, as the natives took one-half of tnc gold thrown out by the blast, and blood would be shed if they continued to work at the (liggings ; that our force was not strong or large enough to work and fight also. They were aware they could not work on shore after hostility had commenced ; therclbre I made up my mind to leave the place, and proceed to this pfacr. The natives were vt : very jealous of us when they saw that we could obtain gold by blasting ; they had no idea that so much could be found below the surface ; they said that it was not good that weshould take all the gold away ; if we did so, that they would not have anything to trade with other vessels, should any arrive : in fact, they told us to be off. The chiefs have no power over the lower order, and, of course, cannot prevent them from plundering or committing any act of violence on strangers. I will refer you to M'Gregor for informa- tion regarding the vein, &c., at the diggings, as he seems to have a good idea of the rock, and how the work should be carried on ; he has behaved well, and was very zealous at his work. The men said they should go again in the spring, if an expedition, properly fitted, should start for working the gold on Queen Charlotte's Island. In my opinion, should another expedition go to Queen Charlotte's Island, a force of, at least, hO men would be required, with two "fPcers to attend the land party; the ship also should have three officers, besides the cu.Jt.i n, which 1 can prove by experience during our late visit to the gold district. 1'he ship's .c tv,a8 well as the land party, should go on shares of the gold that may be collected, at^ it 'voiil' ^i .vent any one from trading gold. We had considerable trouble, duiing our stay ut the inland, to prevent the people from trading the ore. The natives brought a quantity of goiti lo me, which I traded, and now forward it, together with that which we obtainej by oia. 'ing ourselves. Very little, if any, gold will be obtaincc) m ( Jueen Charlotte's Island, except by blasting. It appears to me that some of the gold I traded was obtained on some other place than that which we were at. They, however, said that they had discovered gold in no other place than in Mitchell's Harbour: this report 1 much doubt, as the lumps are solid, and different from any other that we found at the place we were at work on. We ill ■^ f)P COLD AT QUKEN CIIART.OTTF.'S ISLAND. tuiiity orL-xiiiiiiiiiii){ the roiintry iiiiicli, iiM vvi> ri'iiiiiiiiril lint I ft (Iiivm. H at Miti'lirllV Iliirlioiir aliMiu to |iiiy nil i'X|icditioii 111 ^o tlirrr, iind work it. I hud no oiipur- k diiVH. time uiiio. I muw no ym'v who. wi* could build A I'ort iinywhcrn near the di^viin^i. The iliurea nour thv iiea and hurliuurit ure bold, Ht(><-|i riK'kN, down to tin; wntt'tV ud^o. I'roviiiionH will lie found Hi-iiri'r at MitchrirN Harbour; no derr on the inland, and fUli iip|M>arii to l>« very Mcurco, dm thi'y ciinnot cutch tlieni on the outnidc of thv inland, except dll^ill^ u calm, or a north-OHHt wind. I'olutoi-H can Ih.> had in lar^it (piuntitien, froni tlia Skiigned) W. If. M'Neill. — No. 9. — Copy of ii LETTER from Sir J. II. Pelli/ to the \\\^\\i Hoi»)urttbI«' Sir John S. Pahinglon, Bart., m.p. Sir, Hudson's 15ay House, 3 April 1 852. On the 2(>th ultimo I had the honour of addressing a letter to you, eiielosiug a copy of a report on the subject of the gold mine discovered in Queen Char- lotte's Islanil, and requesting an interview, to which I have not yet had an answer. Since then 1 have received a letter from Mr. Ballenden, the officer in charge at Fort Vancouver, on the Columbia River, of which I enclose an extract, from whi(!h you will perceive that the discovery had occasioned great excitement among the American population in that quarter, who were making |)reparation9 for a descent on the island. I have, &c. (signed) J. H. Petty. No. 9. Sir J. H. Pellv to Sir J. S. Faking- ton, Hart., m.p. 3 April l8j'i. Enclosure in No. 9, Extract of a Letter from John Ballenden, Esq., to Archibald Barclay, Esq., Fort Vancouver, O. T., 3 1 ebiuary 18f>'2. '^»'«'l End. .n No. 9. " Til K excitement at Niscpially, and to tlie north of the Columbia, respecting the geld found in Queen Charlotte's Island, is very great: to the south, along the Willamette River, it is n |H'rfi;ct fever. At Portland alone they arc endeavouring to collei-t about 100 armed men to proceed to the island, set the Indians at defiance, and commence working the mines. The news will reach San Francisco in a few days, and many idle persons will be found there ready lo embark in such adventures." — No. 10. — Sir J. H. Pelly presents his compliments to Sir John Pakington, and begs to hand him a packet, addressed to the late Secretary for the Colonies, which has been received to-day from the Governor of Vancouver's Island, and also the copy of a letter from the Governor to Rear-Admiral Moresby, relative to the proceedings and news of American adventurers in regard to Queen Charlotte's Island. Hudson's Bay House, 3 May 1852. 19 Ja. ie^A«iiii£t.^^..,..:a>ai/i.aS^^ I CORRESPONniiNCR IIF.L.VTIVE TO TIIK DISCOVERY End. in No. lo. :i V Eiiclosurt' in No. 10. Copy oC u Lbtteu from James Voiiglaa, Esq., Govoriior oC VuhcouvitV Island, dii ted Fort Victoria, 21ith Jiuumry 1W32, to Kear-AdiiiirnI Moreahy, Coiiinmiidcr-iii-Oiiief o Ilcr Uritiitiiiic Miijcsty's Nuvul Forces in tlie I'licific. Sir, Fort Victoria, 2)1 January 1852. In my commiinicntionA io Earl Cirey of the 10th December luul 2l)tli January, inst. on the affiiirs of VanconverV Ishuul, I made known to Ilcr Majesty's Government the project* entertained by certain adventurers of Orepin and California, in relerence to (Jucen (Charlotte!** Island ; and 1 have since resolved to coniaiuiiicate with you directly on that subject, a.-* the circumstances referred to demand rapid and vigorous measures, and are of such a nature as may authorise you to act without specific instructions. I in.jrmed liis Lordship that several vessels liad sailed, and that many others were reported to be fitting out in the American |)ons of Oregon and Calitornia (or the coast ol Queen Charlotte's Island ; that those vessels arc chartered by large bodies of American adventurers, proceeding thither for the |>urposc of digging gold ; that if they succeed in that object, it is their intention to settle permanently on the island, and establish an indepen- dent Government, with the view ultimately ol becoming annexed to the United States. They look forward and are prepared to encounter much opposition from Her Majesty's Government, having eontidence in their numbers, which can be recruited to any desirable extent out of the floating population of California and Oregon. I despatched one of the llndson's Bay Company's trading vessels last October to retain possession of a rich vein of gold in Alitciieirs Harbour, on the went coast of Queen Charlotte's Island, which had been discovered on n former visit ; but the olhcer in com- mand of the vessel unfortunately did not carry out liis instructions, but left the place, after a very short stay, in consccpicnce of dilficultics with the Indians; the Held, therefore, remains unoccupied, and open to American adventurers, who are reported to have gone tliither in great numbers. I have not, however, been able to ascertain the exact number now there, but I can state with certainty that three vessels bound thither, containing about ]00 adventurers, besides the ships' crews, and provided with mining implements, lately called at this port for information about the gold region. A large ship from California was also spoken some weeks ago oil' the Straits of Juan da Fiica, bound to the same quarter, with 250 adventurers on board, and a number of brass field-pieces, for the purpose of coercing the natives, if hostile ; so that from all accounts I think there cannot be less than 500 Americans, well armed and equipped, on the island. V\'e are now fitting out a vessel for Mitchell's Harbour, which will carry about 40 hands, to watch and report proceedings ; but you are aware that I have no force at my command, nor authority to protect national rights on Queen Charlotte's Island. 1 iniMgine Her Majesty's Government will take possession of the mines for the Crown, and estaolish laws and regulations for the protection of life and property, allowing the mines to be woiked on payment of certain royalties. That privilege, I presume, will be conceded to Bi'itish subjects alone, or to persons professing to be such, and that the subjects and vessels of foreign powers will be entirely excludecTfrom the mines. Delay will add to the difTiculty of enforcing regulations such as 1 have supposed will be adopted by Her Majesty's Government, as the number of adventurers will be continually on the increase ; and I am convinced, if left unmolested, they will attempt to wrest that valuable possession from the British Crown. Whatever force may be sent to Queen Charlotte's Island, should be accompanied by a steam-ship, which 1 think will be (uund of incalculable service in guarding the numerous bays and inlets of the coast, where prohibited vessels may lie concealed. I cannot discover from any authority within reach if foreign vessels touching at Queen Charlotte's Island without a permit will be subject to seizure and confiscation. The Americans have shown the example by the seizure of the British merchant-ship " Albion," of 600 tons burthen, while her crew were employed cutting timber on the American side of the Straits of Juan da Fuca, which is inhabited by savages alone, and without any Government establishment, such act being considered a violation of the revenue and navi- gation laws of the United States ; and the " Albion" was consequen^'y confiscated, and sold. This colony is, I am happy to inform you, in a tranquil state, and ihe Neweete murderers have paid the' forfeit of their crimes with the ''ves, having been put to death by their own countrymen. I have, &c. (signed) James Douglas, Governor of Vancouver's Island. Rcar-Admiral'Moresby, CommanJer-in-Chief of Her Britannic Majesty's Naval Foxes in the Pacific. P.S.—l herewith transmit a sketch of Mitchell's Harbour, Queen Charlotte's Island, for your intbrmation. (signed) J. D. \ OF GOLD AT QUEEN CHARLOTTES ISLAND. I, (111 IciJ t'liicf o 1852. iiiHt. (Ill project* liiirlottc's ct, as till! iitiirc iiH M's wore (! const m(?riciiii iiccood ill iidcpen- ntcs. BJCBty's desirable — No. II.— Copy of a LETTER from //. Merivak; Ksq. to Captain Hamilton. Sir, DowniiipT-.strect, 13 May 1852. In n-qiu'stiiifj yoii to lay before the Lords Coinmissioners of the Admiralty the neeompaiiyiiif!; eopii - of despatehes from the CJovernor of Vancouver's Island, and of a letter from that oftieer to Rear-Admiral Moresby, I am directed by Secretary Sir John Pakinf^ton to recpiest you to recall their Lordships' atten- tion to my Utter of tlie 2 Ith of March, on the subject of statu)ning a ship of war off Queen Charlotte s Island. It ajjpears to Sir John Pakington, from the enclosed pnj)ers, that tin- discovery of gold in that island, and the reported resort thither of several ships conveying tidventurers, whose jiresence is likely to occasi(m disorder, render it imperative on Her Majesty's Government to take inmiediate steps for the security of British interests, and the ui)holding of national rights. I am therefore to recjucst you to move the Lords Connuissicmers of the Admiralty to instruct the llear-Admiral on the station to despatcli such a force to Queen Charlotte's Island as tliiir Lordships may consider adequate for the senice, and a])prise the Rear-Admiral that it is of importance that this instruc- tion should l)e obeyed as promi)tly as possible. Sir J. Pakington is of opinion that a steam-vessel should be inchuh-d in the naval force to l)e sent to Queen Charlotte's Island, as that description of ship will afford facilities for more prompt and vigorous action, if su(!h shotdd be re(iuisitc, than a sailing vessel ; and I am also to inform you, that it is Sir John's intention to provide the officer in command with a commission of the |)eace, so as to enable him to insist on obedience to the law on the part of British subjects. I have, &c. (signed) //. Merivak. No. 11. H. Meiivalc, lss(i. tu Ca|ituiii Maiiiil- tuii. 13 May 1851. — No. 12. — Copy of a LETTER from Caj)tain Hamilton to IJcniian Merivale, Esq. Sir; Admiralty, 25 May 1852. I AM commanded by my Lords (\)nimissioncrs of the Admiralty to send you herewith, for the information of Secretary Sir John Pakington, co])ies of a letter from the British Consular agent at San Francisco to Rear-Adnural Moresby, relative to tlie discovery of gold in Queen C'harlotte's Island, and of the order given for Her Majesty's ship "Thetis" to ))roceed to assert the sovereignty of Her Majesty over that island, &c., and to visit the settlement of Fort Rupert, in Vancouver's Island I am, &c. (signed) ll\ A. B. Ilamilion. No. 12. Capt. Hamilton to H. IVIerivale, Esq. 35 Muy 1852. Enclosure in No. 12. itiilii-h Consiiiute, San Francisco, Sir, I Maich 185'J. I HAVE the honour to comnuinicale inlcliigeiu'c respecting flio discovery o." large quiintities of gold, and of gold bearing (piarlz, at Qiiceu C'lailotte's Isliiiid. From a letter received from Mr. Staines, cliaplain to the Hudson's Uay Company in Vancouver's Island, and the statements of two English sailors vn ho have just returned, I lia\e been enabled to gather the Collowing inl'orination : 'I'he " Una" schooner, belonging to the Hudson's Bay Company, was, I believe, one of, if not the first vessel to proceed there, and found good anchorage close to shore, in .1 small bay on the south roast of the island : a trade was carried on for some days with the Indians, when the schooner returned to Foit Victoria, Vancouver's Island, but had to leave after three days, in conse(]uence of the Indiuns pieventing the crew from removing the gold, which was found chiefly inquaitz, eluse to slioie. Three blasts were made, yielding about ;100 /., with tvhich, and the gold received in c.vcliange for blankets, &c., they again h'it, and were wrecked at Cape ['lattery, on the C'regon coast. A schooner, the " Damarisconc," has lately returned. In making the vovagi; from San Fianci.'ico to 788. .\ 4 ' Puoct'B Encl. in No. 13. ■iip Ml 8 CORRESPONDENCE RELATIVE TO THE DISCOVERY Puget'o Sound, they thought they might as well run up to ascertain th.e truth of the reports concerning the gold. When thev arrived, the Indians were in force, and made BO warlike a demonstration as to compel them, being few in number, to hasten their departure. Before they lefl they received a pencilled note from Mr. Rowland, a British BUDJect, master of the sloop " Oeorgiana," who had proceeded thither only a few weeks before in his little vessel, about 40 tuns, with a company of Americans, from Puget's Sound. The note informed them that the " Georgiana " was wrecked, and that alf the party were in the hands of the Indians, who had 8tripp«d them of every thing. The *' Damariscone" returned, and gave information to the United States collector of customs Rt Olynipia, who forthwith chartered and fitted her up under the United States revenue flag, with a lieutenant and four privates of the U. S. Artillery, and ten volunteers, who found, on airival, the whole party in captivity, and secured their liberation by dona- lions of blankets and trinkets: three of the purtv rescued were British subjects. It is reported that lately several small vessels had sailed from Oregon for Queen Charlotte's Island, and three arc endeavouring to procure pasBengers here for that destination. 1 have thought it right to address you with ail the particulars, as far as I have been able to learn, in cast! you should deem it expedient to take any steps for the protection of the island. Rear-Admiral Moresby, Commander-in-Chief, 8ic. 8ic. &c. I have, &c. (signed) Geo. AMh. I No. 13. Governor Duuglas (0 Earl Grey. 15 April 1852. — No. 13. — Extract of a DESPATCH from Governor Douglas to Earl Gi ii/ ; dated Victoria, Vancouver's Island, 1 5 April 1 852. (Received, 13 July 1832.) " There has been for some time past much excitement among the labouring classes on the subject of the gold diggings of Queen Cliarlotte's Island, to the great injury of the colony, which has, in consequence, lost many useful men. One of the Hudson's Bay Company's vessels sailed for Gold Harbour about the end of last month, with a strong and well-appointed party. " The Exact," and another American vessel, which called at Gold Harbour since my last report, returned unsuccessful from that voyage, having been beaten off by the natives, though the American force was considerable, and well armed. Several other American vessels are reported to be on the point of sailing from the ports of Oregon for the same part of the coast. I have no reliable information from California, though the rumours in circulation lead to the belief that Gold Harbour will be the great attraction of the season." No. 14. Governor Douglas to Earl Grey. 38 May 1853. — No. 14. !) Extract of a DESPATCH from Governor Douglas to Eari Grey, dated Fort Victoria, Vancouver's Island, 28 May 1852. (Received, August 1852.) " I ALSO observe that your Lordship, for very important reasons, does not consider it expedient to prohibit the resort of foreign vessels to Queen Charlotte's Island. Since my last report of the 15th April, advices have been received that the Hudson's Bay Company's brig " Recoveiy " had arrived safely at Queen Charlotte's Island, and taken unmolested possession of the only surfar^e gold vein in Gold Harbour, with the consent and approbation of the native Inr'' as, who have lived on the most friendly terms with the party ever since their arwt'al. No foreign vessel was known at that time to be on the coast ; but in the space of ten days afterwards seven vessels had assembled in Gold Harbour from the American ports in Oregon and California, having each from 40 to 70 miners on board. Finding the vein pre-occupied by the Hudson's Bay Company's people, the Americans sent out parties in all directions to explore the neighbouring coast ; but their researches for gold were not successful, and four of the vessels, after \jSA' \m It I n , II iiijuiw Wfc WPU.J* " "" ■^■ W i tt i L ' . W OF OOIl) AT QUEEN CIIAllI.OTTES ISLAND. .» after a few weeks' stay, al)an(l()iieil tlie enterpi'ise, not, liowever, without haviim; landed a i)arf\ of ir> men, wlio liave thrown up a block liouse on Nutts' Island, and mounted two small pieces of onhiaace, as a protection iij^ainst the natives. That |)arty and one Americjui vessel wore, l)y last advices of the 2(ith instant, still in (lold Harbour. It was exju'cted, from tiie small (piantity of jjohl foinid, that the vessel woidd soon leave the coast ; but the party on shore had, it ai)pears, nmde up their minds to remain for a further time on the island, fro'u a persua- sion that fjold would l)e foinid in considerable ([uantitics l)y mininj?. and they were cxpectini; a reinfinTcment of hands, w ith supplies, by a ship from California. With our limited information respectinfj; the auriferous (le])osits of the island, it is difficult to predict with (-ertainty what may be t!ie issue of their adventure : l)ut it is very certain that success will have tlie ctt'eet of attractinj;; a crowd of adventurers from the Americum settlements on this coast to Uueini Charlotte's Island, and it will be no easy matter to «'ject them when tirndy established. I had, indeed, h()))es, derived from the siirnal failure of the fi\i' first Ameri(!an vessels which visited the island, that tlu^ mines would be left to the better «lirc(^ted and tinner enteqjrise of llcr Majesty's snl)jccts, and tiiat this colony would beeonu^ a (lc])6t and jjlace of refuj^e to the British ships emi)l()ycd about the mities. The Hudson's Bay Company's i)e()))le were workinj; the auriferous rock with great enerfiy, but indifl'erent success, not havin;; struck any decided vein of ^^old ; n fortunate Indian had, however, jjicked up near the same sjiot a beautiful sjK'cimen of |)ure sjold, wci^hinj^ about three pounds troy, which be found amoni!; the mud on the Vieach, a little beyond low-water mark. It was evidently a travelU d lumj) ; 1)ut whether thrown n\) by the waves, or carried down from the ncighliouriuii; momitains, could not be ascertained, thoui:;h plausible aruuments were adduced in favour of each of those oi)iiiions. Detachments had l)een out to explore the interior of the island, who discovered 51 larije fresh-water lake, and many extensive beds of {[uartz rock ; jjut they saw- very little surface gold. Her Majesty's ship " Thetis," under the command of Captain Kui)ar, arrived sit the neigldiouring port of I'lsquimalt on the 21th of May, and sailed (m the r)th in.stant for Uuecu Charlotte's Island and Fort Rupert, the northern settle- ment of Vancouver's Island. I connnmiieated to Captain Kujjar the substance of the information respcctini>; Queen t'harlottc's Island, and the ])rospccts of the American adventurers, which is stated in this and my previous letters to your Lordship, and also procured one of the Hudson's Bay Comjiany's office'-s, who is well acquainted with the navi- gation of the coast, to Jieeompany him on that voyage." — No. 1 ."). — Extract of a DESPATCH from (Jovernor Duii-ihis to the Right Honourable. Sir John S. I'ti/ii/ig/mi , dated Fort ^'i(•toria, ^■ancouver's Island, 2 August 18.'»2. (deceived, 18 October lRo2.) " I onsEUVK with much satisfaction that you have directed the attention of the Lords Connnissioners of the AdniiraUy to the subject of stationing a vessel of war off Queen Charlotte's Island for the sui)i)ort of naticmal riglits, and the protection of Her Majest}'s subjects trading to that quarter. We have received no intelligence from Ciucen Charlotte's Island since the arrival of Her Majesty's shi]) "Thetis" in the early part of last month. Tiic Americans had all left Ijcfore the dejiarture of the "thelis" from Cold Harbour, and I have no doubt the report of her i)rocccdings 0!i the coast will deter many 7S8. B persons No. Governor to llh' l;i< .1. S. V:.i 'J Au!;ll>^t .)• Hoiiui, III IIm' r.iltc r. l^,■ :. TO CORRESPONDENCE RELATIVE TO THE DISCOVERY' persons from ^oiiig tlicn-, who wo\il(l otherwise have heeii iiuhieed by its reputed weultii to visit the island. The danger is not, however, eoniplctely removed, iis rnmoius arc slill abroad of parties ibrminft in California an(i Oregon, for the avowed purpose of woriiing the gold mines, and any prospect of success will set them all in motion. The reports received from tin • Hudson's Bay Company parties employed on Uuecn Charlotte's Island arc not so fa\(iural)lc as anticipatt-d, anut tli!it the place had lieen visited subsecpiently by a ves>^el witli a party of advcntiniTs IVoiii Sun Fiaiieisco, who are supposed to liiive imit with some itnc'eess. Of tli.' cxistiiice nf i^old in cnnsidrrabii' (piaiitity upon the iskind there can be no d(Mil)t, Irinii liic spcciiiicnsol |iiiri' iiielal whieli have been broii;;lit lor barter by the iiidians. The jiuiicst piece as yet seen vvrinlis 22 Diincirs, and is in possession of one of the chiefs, who, liowivcr, places so ('Xorliitaiit a price upon it ( I believe 1,50U blankets) that nobody has Ix'i'ii ill lie tii iiiak(! a bargain with him. i he nioiintains, as lar we wcri; alii(^ to explore, uboiiiul in veins of (jiiart/, ; but tlie extremely nigged and impracticalile nature of the country will present n;ost sciious olistaeles to the success