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wmm

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.

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

rnoM WHOM.

I) A T K.

S U U J E C T.

Piyt.

BeriM.

1862:

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

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 "

],->

(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 -

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. - - - . .

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 -

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 - . .

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.

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.

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.

N()vonil)cr liwt, <liHcov»'rt'«l n ricli v«in of ji;'>l'li nvcniiciii^!; (il iiiclicH in wicltli,
l)f<l(l<-il ill (|iiart/. nick, riiniiiii!; HO feet parallel with tin- coast, and from tliciicc
appan-iitly takiiii; a ilircctlon tiiward.s the interior ot' the island ; but it coidd not
he traecrl lu-yond the point where it diver^rcs from the line of coast, on acconnt
of tlw surface earth, which conceals it from view. The vein was worked for
several days, hy hlastiuf?, aiul rich s])eciiiiens were jjroeured, some of whi(;h
yielded U.'i per cent, of ])ure ffold, aiul there was every prospect of making a
profitable voyaf^c, when the natives, attracted to the spot in fj;reat ii'indiers, l)y
the jiresencc of the vessel, beeanie so cxcccdiiif^ly tmnblesonie to the parties
on siiore, by ))ill'crinu; their tools, and by rnsliin^ tunudtuonsly n|)on the mine
from tiiiu' totim«! as tlie explosions took place, to seize the f^old which had Iiccm
so hardly earned, that thoy could no loufiir carry on their operations without
hviufr in danger of their lives. The officer in command, influenced l)y the
entn-aticH of the Indian chiefs, who, with much a])|iarcnt ffood feeling;;, lie^p'd
him to keep his men on board, and not permit them to lan<l, as they found it
impossibh', amidst so many temptations, to restrain their people iVoni conunittinf^
thos(' violent acts. Ids nu-n at the same lime havinj; refused to work on shore,
unless they were allowed to fire upon the Indians if they nii;ain attempted to
maltreat or ))luii(h-r them, left the coa.st, a decision madi^ from the best of
motives, but which has unfortunately left the field open to the Anu'rican adven-
turers, who arrived there shortly after his ih'parturc ; and, as the "Una" was
wrecked at Cajx' Flattery, <m her return to this ))lace, jind the Hudson's Hay
Company had no other disposahU' vessel at hand to send there, the Americans
still reinuin in jiossession of the fjold rcf!;ion.

I have since I«'arn«'d, that the first American .shij) which nrriv«'d in Mitchell's
Harbour remained only n few days, as the adventurers on board were intinudated
hy the hostile appearanc*- of the natives, and wouhl m)t venture im shore.
Another smaller vessel was wrecked on the east coast of the island, and I have
ascertained, through a letter from tlu^ master, received by Indian conveyance,
that the whole party h(! had on board, consistinj^ of 'M) jhtsous, had reached tluf
shore in safety, and were livinj^ in a most wretched condition among the
Indians.

A vessel was lately despatched to their relief by the United States' authorities
at Nesqually, with what success I have not yet heard. 1 have not been able to
ascertain how many other American vess* !s have gone there, but I will inform
your Lordship a-s soon as I receive information regarding that matter.

While on the subject of (^ucen Charlotte's Island, I will further take the
liberty of remarking to your Lordship that, apart from political considerations,
and as n mere question affecting the prosperity of this colony, it would he highly
important to exclude the vessels of foreign j)owers from that field of enteq)rise,
leaving it open to national vessels alone ; as in that case a flourishing trad(>
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.

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 commenc<!d in a vein of quartz, and were very Huccesgful ; the rock proved to l>e 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.

ill

■^

f)P COLD AT QUKEN CIIART.OTTF.'S ISLAND.

tuiiity orL-xiiiiiiiiiii){ the roiintry iiiiicli, iiM vvi> ri'iiiiiiiiril lint I ft (Iiivm. <liiriii^ win, li tiiiin I
%viiH iiccupicd with th« InilimiH, im no niu- on liDiird, itnirpt iiiyNflr, roiild Hjiruk to thrni

I! (iiiuntitini
Ski<ligutrt) tribe, who rcNidt! on the cuNt side of the itland, but can rvavli tlxt (lig^ingn in two

^ .' havR diKrovrmI iind provi'il by tW\n voyii^'(!, Ihiit (;iild im to Iip loiiiid in (|iiniititii>H at
Miti'lirllV Iliirlioiir aliMiu to |iiiy nil i'X|icditioii 111 ^o tlirrr, iind work it. I hud no oiipur-

k diiVH. <f'-' ■ ■ -

yNclii nil
wi- had Monir bud, iKiiHtrroUN wcnthiT diiriiii; thi> 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
Ski<ligutrt) tribe, who rctiidt! on the t
thyn' travel in thi' Numiner M'amiii.

ShouM a fort be built, or a Hhip remain, at the diggiiii^H Tor a length oC time, a large nutn-
iMTof IndiaiiH woiilil ' '< -ct.und ruitidi! near at hand, utiu give annoyance; therefore a large
force of men v. aiild be ii''"iired fur protection, and to work the gold ; a perHon uc(|uainted
with ItidiiiiiH Hhould leuil Vic expedition, and have an interpreter.

ThenutiveM on the t'rMt.or outHidenf the iNluiid,are great marauderii, and prey on distant
triliefi, lake nianv priHuiierH, and make Hiaveit of them.

I hope you "T'l lie mit' lied with the reuioim I have given fur leaving the digging*, and
not remaining there ho lung uh vou wiMlied.

The voyage linN, however, lUitw Home good ; wc have aHcertnined that guld it to be fuuitd
by bhiHtiiig to pay well for working it.

The bent or piircHl gold iH to lie fuiind deep down in the ruck ; we, however, had no tinia
or chance tu get ut it, an wc were obliged to leave, ait Htated before

1 remain, t.c.

Jaineii Douglas, Eiiq. (*>igned) 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^^

CORRESPONniiNCR IIF.L.VTIVE TO TIIK DISCOVERY

End. in No. lo.

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

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.

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^,■ :.

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, an<l it has now
become a question if surface gold, as found in ( 'alifornia, exists in large (|iiantities
uti any i)art of the island. On the other hand, all the accounts agr.c in repre-
s«'nting the great value of the auriferous (|uart/„ from winch it is cxi)ceted that
a ricli harvest ol' tlie precious metals will be obtained.

Ihc pre.sence of ii vcssi-l of war pi-rnuuu'ntly stationed on this coast will, I am
Cduvinecd. have the liap])icst effect in promoting general trade, as well as the
sjiecial interests of tiiis ^;olon} , and I am in hopes that Her Majesty's (iovern-
ment will take a favourable view of that mciusiire."

No. 16.
Ciptain Hamilton
to H. Merivale,
Esq.
^i^ Sept. 1852.

-- No. 1(5. —

Copy of a LETTER from Captain Hamilton to II. Merivale, Esq.

Sir, Adnuralty, 2/ September 1852.

I AM (;ommanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to send you
herewith, for the information of Secretary Sir John Pakingttm, copies of a letter,
dated the 23d July last, from ('aptain Kujjar, of Her Majesty's ship "Thetis,"
and of its enclosures, containing intelligence resi)ecting Vancouver and ttueen
Charlotte Islands.

I am, &c.
(signed) W. A. B. Hamiltmu

Enclosure in No. 16.

End. in No. 16, Extract of a LETI'ER from Captain Kiipar to Hear-Aumiral Moresby, c. b. ; dated

Her Majesty's Ship " Thetis," iSan Francieco, 20 July 1862.

" It would appear that the inronnatiou contained in the letter addressed to you by Her
' Page 7. Majesty's Consul at San Francisco on the 1st March last* was substantially correct ; but the

amount of gold as yet procured from Queen Charlotte's Island has, I think, been over-
rated. The only place where gold has ns yet been found is in Port Mitchell, and the
Indians maintain that all they have procured came from the same spot, and that they have
not found it in any other part of the island; tlieir reports, however, cannot be depended
upon.

Tiie Hudson's Bay (Company's schooner "Recovery" arrived at Port Mitchell from
Fort Victoria on the 6th April las^t, with a party of men who had agreed to work, on shares,
the vuin of quartz wliich had first been worked by those on board the "Una;" the
Hudson's Bay Company finding all materials, powder, mining tools, &c., anil receiving
one-half of the [)roceeds towards jjayinsi 'he expenses, the other half being equally divided
amongst those employed, who, althounh the re<;iilor servants of tiie company, were to
receive no wages during the tinii.'. 'I'iiis expedition is under the connnand of Doctor
Kennedy; but, from the inlbrniation I n ceived troni him, as well as from some of the
I'liners, it would appear that they had been much disappoin'ed in their expectations.
Several of the men had alieady deserted, and the rest all expressed tiiemselves as anxious
to get away, as the amount of gold procured would not, by the account of Doctor
Kennedy, by any means pay the expenae of ))ovvder and tools, and would only give a very
trifling share to the men. The gold they had got has been procured by dint of very hard
labour, the mere clearing the gioimd being a matter of diHiculty, and the stone contiguous
to the vein of quartz being exceedingly hard and difHcult to blast. They told ine that
they had sometimes been days without finding gold. The vein is close to the water's
edge, and the portion opened about 20 feet in length, and in the deepest part six or eight
fiict below the surface.

1 have been unable to obtain any correct information as to what amount of gold has

actually

or GOLD AT aUEKN CHARLOTTE'S ISLAND.

'(•<l by its

till abroad
)f working

piojcd oil
it has now
(|U<uitlti(:s
• in nprc-
)i'C'tf(l that

will, I am
veil as the
's (Jovcrn-

Ksq.

KT 1852.

o send you
of a letter,
"Thetis,"

and tlueen

Hamilton.

B. ; dated

you by Her

rect ; but the
L, been over-
lieli, and the
at they iiave
be depeuded

litchell tVom
k, on sirarcs,
' Una ;" the
nd receiving
unlly divided
my, were to
1 ot' Doctor
some of the
uxpectatiuuii.
!s as anxious
it of Doctor
)r sjive a very
of very hard
e contiguous
.old me that
the water's
; six or eight

t of gold has
actually

actually been taken from the inland ; luit the " Una," previoim to her being wrecked in
Nciili liuy, in the Straits of Juan da I'lica, certuinly <;ot sonic, and I wiis infornii'il bv
Mr. IVIitchcll, who then eonnuandcd the " I na," and is now in cunnnatid of the " Uerovrry,"
that wluni he lel't thi' island in the " Una," there was a i onsiderable amount of gold visible
in the vein ; but, not being in sufhcicnt nunil'crs on board, they were prevented li'oni wci'kinu
it by tile Indians, i>ut 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 <if any adventmers who may b(!
disposed to visit tln^ island in search of gold,

I enclose a list of the vessels whicii have visited Port Mitchell since April last, for the
purpose ol seeking ti)r gold. I am told that they had each from 40 to 50 (laliforiiiau adven-
turers oi! board ; but they upp('ar to have met with no success whatever, and returned to San
Francisco, after remaining only a short time, dnriiii; wliieii they appear to have exaiiiineil
many ol the hills and water-courses in the vicinity of the port. The only persons lelt
l)chiiid were a party of seven men, proliissing to be Uritish subjects, whom I lijiind living in
a small rocky island close to the "Thetis" anchorage. They had l)een landed in the
beginning of May from the schooner "Susan Sturges," which vessel tliey expected daily
to return to take them away again. They were preparing a boat, in which they intended
to return to San Francisco, shtmid the schooner not arrive shortly. This party were also
working a vein of (|uartz, not far from that of the Hudson's Bay Company, but, according to
iheir own account, had nut found suliicient gold to make it wortii their while to continue
their (i|)ciations, and were anxiously looking out for an opportunity to leave the island.

1 have purchased for Her Majesty's Government such specimens as I could procure
from Dr. Kennedy ol the gold and gold ore fouml on Queen Cliarlotte's Island. Those of
pure metal were purchased by him from the Indians. The specimens of quartz, all contain-
ing more or less gold, were taken from the vein which the company are now working in
Port Mitchell.

The country round Port Mitchell is a series of rugged and iirecipitous rocky moun-
tains, in some parts perpendicular for lUO feet or more, and thickly wooded, wherever it is
possible for a tree to take root.

The woods, particularly where exposed to the north-west winds, are much blighted in
niuiiy places. It is impossible anywhere to penetrate more than a few yards into the
country without extreme labour, the ground being a mere mass of rocks, and fallen and
decayed trees of great size, everywhere covered very thickly with moss. We found good
water abundant in many accessible streams ; hut I think it probable that later in the season,
when tlie snow is all melted on the hills, that it would be more scarce, as even during our
short slay wc found the streams considerably diminished, and few were sufHeiently large
to warrant the supposition that they would continue to flow during the heat of the summer
months. We found the climate damp, and very changeable, the thermometer during the
five days of our slay ranging from 5U to HO in the shade.

Lieutenant Moresby, after a fatiguing walk, succeeded in reaching a fresh-water lake of
some extent, about a mile and n half from the head of the harbour, and supposed to be
about 400 feet above the level of the sea ; and Lieutenant I'eel i cached the summit of one
of the highest peaks, when he and his party walked for some distance over snow of con-
siderable depth. Mr. Peel describes having seen from thence a large inlet or harbour to
the southward. From the information I received, there would appear to he many good har-
bours in Queen Charlotte's Island, Not far to the northward of Port Mitchell is a passage
which completely intersects the island, and which was navigated by the HikIsoh's Bay
Company's steamer '' Beaver " from the eastward to within a few miles of its western
entrance, where she was stopped by dangerous rapids. The eastern coast ot Queen Char-
lotte's Island is said to be much more level, and the neighbouring waters not so deep. It
is said that antimony, lead, and iron are plentiful in that part.

The navigation of that part of the island which I visited appears to be very free
from hidden dangers, but is diiKcult and dangerous for sailing vessels of any size, in conse-
quence of the great depth ot water everywhere, there being no anchorage, except in it very
few places, too close to the rocks for a large ship, and the mountains are so high anit
abrupt, that the winds are unsteady and partial.

Mr. George Moore, the master of the " Thetis," has, by my directions, made a plan of
Port Mitchell, and the channel leading to it, a tracing of which I e> \j~^ herewitii.

The Indians upon Queen Charlotte's Island appear to be very numerous, and a finer
and fairer race of men than those on Vancouver's Island. From our first arrival, we were
daily surrounded by numbers of large canoes full of men, women, and children. All tiie
tribes within reach came to see what they called the mountain ship, and we had at one time
upwards of 100 canoes round the ship; but the Indians invariably behaved in the most
friendly manner towards us, and, beyond the noise they made, caused us no annoyance

788, B a whatever.

COUUKSPONDKNCK IIKLATIVE TO THK DISCOVERY

\\ lmt«v«r. 't'licv Imvu almost all soiiii; portion of Europonu dress, iind imiiiy uikIithIiiikI
SOUK.' words of ImiuHsIi. Tlioy luc i-oiisiili-rcd to Iw. .^iMuinilly well-disposed fowiinls their
white visitoi>; ; mrd"l wtis iiitoiiued hy the otlicers of the Hudson's Hiy ('oiiip.iny tliit they
rarely Imd luiy trouble with theiu.

The turs procured Croin Queeu Charlotte's Island by the Hudson's U.iy ('oni|)any am
Liu and land oiter, hear, and martin.

V i

Sub-Eiiclosiirc to Enclosure in No. IG.
List oI' Vi'.ssKl.H wliali hnvo visited Fort Mitchell, Queen Chnrtotlc's Islnmt.

NAMK OF VES9

KL.

Uiiilnr wlint
roloiim.

- American -

Dato of Arrival.
•20 April l«j-J

M'licni From.

•Son I'runcisco -

Diito nf
Dt'purtiire,

Scliooiiir " Susan Stu

11 May IH.V2

Ikig "Tepid"

lin(.'liHli

21 April „

- ditto .

l.-i Miiy „

Brig " Pulernm" •

Aniciiciin -

21) April ,,

- ditto -

1.-) -AFuy „

Sohooiier " .Mexiciui "

Aiiieiiciin -

28 April „

- ditto •

8 May „

Uri^'uiitiiif " Eiiiile "

.Aniericnn -

•J May „

Coluiiiliiu Iliver -

7 .lunt „

Seliooni'r " Cecil "

AnicriiMoi -

1 18 Mnv „

Sun I'rnneisco -

2(! :\[«y ,.

No. 17.

Governor Douglas

to ^ir .1. S. Paking-

:on,

^7 .August 185a.

— No. 1". —

Extract of n DESPATCH from (Jovcruor Doiir/Ias to Sir John S. Pithinflton;
dated Victoria, Vaiu'oiivcr's l.sland, 2" Aiiji^ust 1H.'>2.

(Uecoived, 11 Novembor I8,')2.)

" Her Majesty's shii) 'Tlutis' arrived jit Escniiinalt on the 22(1 instant,
direct from Queen Cliarlotte's Island, and I belicvi- Captain Kujjar has orders
from the Commander-in-chief to reniiiin on this coast till the month of January
next, chiefly with the view of f^uardini;; the Ports of Uueeii ('harlotte's Island.
The s^old diimiiiffs in that quarter have not been ])rodiu^tive tliis season, which
has not, however, altered the fjeneral o])iuion entertained as to its wealth in the
precious metals, the adventurers ascribing; their late want of suct'css simply to
the circumstance of the true beds not having been tliscovered.

Fine specimens of lead and coi)i)er ore have also Deen pnxuired on tiueen
Charlotte's Island, which, in a commercial view, gives it an additional value."

No. 18.

*irJ.?.Pakington,
Bart.. M. p.
J7 Sept. 1852.

' P.T.'C 2.

— No. 18. —

(No. :,.)

Extract of a DESPATCH, &c., from Sir John S. Pakmjton, Bart., m.p., to
(sovernor i^ow/j-^/a*; dated Downing-street, 2/ September 1852.

" Sir,
"I HAVE to acknowledge the receipt of your de.spatch of the 2!)th Jamiary*
last, rei)orting generally upon the state of affairs in Queen Charlotte's Island,
consequent upon the discovery of gold in that quarter of the British dominions.

I have to inform you, that Her Majesty's Government, having taken into their
serious (,'onsiderution the meiisures which the discovery of gold in Queen

Charlotte's

OF COLD AT QUEEN CMAHLOTTR'S ISLAND.

Clmrlottc's Isliiiul seems to re(Hiire for tlie protection of British riithts aiul (Ik*
preservation of order, have (leterinined on fiirnisliinn' yon witli a eomniission,
wliieh is herewith sent, as Lientenant-Cioveriutr of that settlement. Von will
(listhietly nnderstand that Her Ahijesty's (iovernnient have no intention to
siniction, l)y this inslnnuent, the impression that they may have any desiu;n of
eolonizinfj; the eonntry, or plaeinfj; any esta))lishment on it. The commission is
issned solely to ni-et the circumstances of tlie times: it conveys to you no
power to make laws, or constitute a ref^ulin- ffovcrnment ; iiut it liives the party
l)earinf? it a poshio;i of autlnnnty as representing Her .Majesty's (iovernnient hi
tlur (hstrii^t, wliich is hoth iin|)ortant and valuahle.

It will he satisfactcuT to you to learn that II<r Majesty's (iovernnient havn
<lircctcd the Connnander-in-chicf of Her Majesty's naval forces on the west
<'oast of America to take immediate steps for the i)rotceti(ni of liritish interests
ajrainst the (U'i)redations of Indians, or the mnvarranted intrusion of foreiirners,
on tjie territory of the (iue<'n ; and I trust it may he further in the power of
the Admiral to comjjly with yoiu- appli(!ation for a steam-vessel. 1 transmit
herewith, for your information and {guidance, the cojn of a letter and its enclo-
sures from Lord Stanh-y, one of the Under Secretaries of State for I'orciu:!! Affairs,
frtmi which you will perceive that the Earl of Malnicshnrj' has addressed n
<!oinmunication to 1 ler Majesty's Minister at \Vashinf;t()n, which, it is hoped,
will have the (tffect of inducing the (iovernnient of the L'nited States to exert
themselves to prevent a,!;fi;ression hy American citizens on Kn^li.sh rights. It
will, of <'ourse, (U'volve on you to punish acconhnii to law, or forcihly to expel
from (ineen Charlotte's Island, any f(m'ifj;ners who may infrinj^e British rcgida-
tions, or violate British territorv.

The projierty, hoth in land and mines, in Queen Cluu'lotte's Island being
un(iuestionably the Crown's, the Crown can delegate to you the power of
granting land and issuing licenses for ))rociiring gold. But it is not the intention
of Her Majesty's (iovernment that any such grants, <'onvcying a j)ernianent
interest in the hnid, should be ma(h' for the present : although you may jxTmit
l)arties to occupy delined pcn'tions of the soil, if you find it advisahh', it must he
on the understanding, that no titl(> is thereby acquired until you have reported
to me on the state of things in the island, and received further instructions ; })ut
with respect to the issuing of licenses, yonr experience may, pcrhai)s, not be so
extensive. I tliercforc send you copies of two papers which have been latt'Iy
pn-sented by command of Her Majesty to Parliament, relating to the recent
<lise()verj' of gold in Australia, from which ^ou will derive very valuable infor-
mation !is to the (H)urse of procedure adopted by the respective Governors in
that ('ountry for granthig licenses to persons to jirosecutc the search for gold.
Yon will find the i)rin(!ii)al information on this subject at pages 70 and "1 of the
Parliamentary Paper of Fcbniary, and at ])agcs "20, 21, .'j4 and ">.'), in that of
June, and will frame such regulations as you mav (h-em jjraciticable iuid advisable
for granting licenses for collecting gold upon the principh- of those whicii yon
will find, from the corrcs[)ondcnce. have been granted to the Australian Colonit's.
You will, therefore, luiderstand that your jjower extends to gnmting licenses on
.xuch terms and for such period as yon may tliink in'oper to jjcrsons intending to
search fen' gold on the island ; and that in cases of any violation of the right
which such licenses give, or fuiy unauthorised search taking i)lacc, jon are to
claim the su])p()rt of Hei Majesty's officers who may be within reach to enfin'cc
your authority. -Vt the same time, these powers iU'c entr\isted to you subject
to your own (liscretion as to the means of employing thciu ; and if v on find tliat
anv fitter means of maintaining the Crown's authority over the tribes presents
itself, you can ])rovisionally adopt it, snl)ject to the approval of Her ^lajesty's
Government. You will take care to transmit to me copies of the rcguhitions
which j'ou shall frame, and rejjort to me from time to time the progress of
events arising out of this fresh discovcrj' of gold in the Queen's dominions ; and
you will keep the sums retieivcd on account of licenses which y(m may issm;
separate iuul disthict from any other revenue ,hat may be received in tho
colony.

You have suggested in jour des])atch of the 29th January, that it wovdd
be highly desirable to exclude the vessels of finvign powers from th«' trade which
is opening itself in Queen Charlotte's Island, so as to confine it to national

vessels alone,

On this proposal I have merely to inform you that Her Majesty's
B ' Government

il,:

If
:

14 CORRESPONDENCli RELATIVE TO THE DISCOVERY

Govcrmiu'iit would not be juHtified, under the cxistiun state of the law, in
resortinj; to any measure of this (U-scTiption.

In conclusion, I hiivc to state that Her Majesty's Clovernmcnt would have
been sh"' *<> li'i^'*" furnished the officer in eonnnand of the vessel or vessels which
Admiral Moresby may have in his power to detach to Uueen ( harlotte's Island
with a ct)mmissi(m of tlie peace ; but th. difficulty is, to know to whom such a
commission should be j^ranted, as it is impossibh> to foresee in this country
what officer Admiral Moresby may find it convenient to employ upon the service.
It is clear, however, that Uueen Charlu'te's Island beinj? out of your commission,
vou do not po:<st"ss tlie jjowcr of Krani''iii>' commissions of the jjcace in that
settlement, thi)ujj;h the Crown can do s •, unchT the authority of the Imperial
Act 1 & 2 Geo. 4, c. 16, s. 10, notwithstiuidinn the concurrent power which
is vested in the (Jovernor-G»'ni;ral of British North America. In consequence
of the difficulty to whic^h I have above adverted, it is not, at all events at
present, in my power to givi- you positive instructions or information as to the
issuing of a commission of the peaiie in Uueen Charlotte's Island.

But any report from yourself, specifying perscms to whom yo\i think such a
commission should be given (with a fidl (lescirijjtion of their names, so as to
enable the commission to i)e properly drawn up) will receive immediate
attention.

I have, &c.
(signed) Joh/i S. Ptikington.

End. ill No. IS.

,\VV-

■^-i

Enclosure in No. 18.

Sir, Foreign Office, 2 June 1862.

I HAVE laid before the Earl of Maimesbury your letter of the 26tii ultimo., inquirin<^
whether uny and what instructions siiouid be (riven to the Governor of Vancouver's Iglaud,
or to Rear-Admiral Moresby, in regard to foreign vessels trading to Queen Charlotte's
Is Hnd, or to parties of foreigners whom such vessels may convey thither, for the purpose of
carrying on mining or other operations ; and I am directed by his Lordship to transmit to
you a copy of a letter which he addressed to the Admiralty on the 8th ultimo, desiring that
Admii'al iVIoresby should be instructed to protect British property and British territory from
violation by foreigners.

I also transmit to you a copy of a despatch which Lord Maimesbury has written to Her
Majesty's Minister at Washington upon this subject, and which despatch his Lordship
hopes will have the desired effect of inducing the Cnited States Government to exert them-
selves to prevent aggression by American citizens on English rii^hts ; and I am to request
that you will inform Secretary Sir John Pakington that, in his Lordship's opinion, the
(xovernor of Vancouver's Island, or the officer whose jurisdiction extends over Queen
Charlotte's Island, should be instructed in conformity with the tenor of the papers above
mentioned, and should make such regulations regarding the trade and mining operations as
may be right and proper, and may prevent such trade and mining from being improperly
usurped by foreigners; and that both the Governor and Admiral should be instructed to
})unish according to law, or forcibly to expel from the island, any foreigners who may infrin^"!
liritish regulations, or violate British territory.

I am, &c.
(signed) Stanley.

Sub-Enclosure 1, to Enclosure in No. 18.

My Lords, Foreign Office, 8 May 1852.

I TRANSMIT to your Lordships herewith copies of a letter and its enclosures from the
Hudson's Bay Company, respecting the proceedings of certain American adventurers at
(iuecn Charlotte's Islnud, and 1 have t-j signify to your Lordships Her Majesty's com-
mands, that the Commander-in-chief of Her Majesty's naval forces on the west coast of
America be instructed to take immediate steps to protect British property and British
territory from violation by foreigners.

I have, &c.
The Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty. (signed) Malmeibttry.

■^■■iii .fc » «i ii Biiro

K^^^M

OF GOLD AT UUlJiN CIIAULOTTE'S ISLAM).

Sul)-Kii(!losurf 2, to Knclosuni in No. IH.

(No. 4O.)
Sir, I'oruign Ofliri', H Miiy IH.'ci.

I THANSMiT to yiiii liiMi'wiili (Mipifs oj' 11 IcltiT iiiid ilM (■ii(l<:.siiii'» liiiih ilif 1 1 iidt'diiV Hay
L'i)iii|)iiiiy ri'spi'L'tiii;;- llic |pro(c'('<iiiit;s nl' L't'iliuii Aiiicrii mi imIvciiIiiicik iitl^inin ( liiultiltc'H
himiil, 1111(1 1 Imvc to iiisliiicl yoii to imII tlw k lions iiiid niiimiliiilc nlliiilioii ol the
Govi iiiiiiciit of tile lliitdd Mules to those |ir(iL'c cdihus, wliiili nvr (idciilnlcd to ciKliiliiicr the
friendly irliiliolis liitwceii llie two (ioveliilil; litr-, liiit «liiili llil' Miijrsly's (io\eliiliient
f'eid iissiiied liiive Ijeeli iiudel taken wiliiont ilic kiiowli (l;;e or eoiisiiil ol the ?ii|)renie
Ciovi rinnent.

You will iidd, tlnit Her MujcHty'H Oovcrnim nl Iuim', id conrBc, 'fiivcn in>liiietions to the
Connimndei-in-chi('ror Ilia- AIiijesly'H Nuvul ((nre.s on tiic west eoiist ol AnieiKMi to |)ioteet
Brilisii properly mid Hrilidh territory Ireni vir.liilion, iind llml any loieii;iier» who nmy
wuti'er lium such nieiisurcH of pioteetion niiisl tiikii upon ihrmsdveH ihe eoiisefiiienct'ti of
tlieir iiijgrL'ssive iiiul improper acts.

I uui, &e.
T. F. Cruuii)ton, lisq. (.siyntd) Mulmabi(ry,

kc. iii: 8ic.

-y"^ -j;W i i i i BW «i!'./ .^Tgyf^.

■ '*(*-, J Vasi-^iisd^A *i&iil*'

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