Bennett to Lytton
Novr 4th 1858
Sir
As I believe it is customary to appoint a Colonial Surgeon on the formation of a New Colony, I venture to bring myself to your Excellency's Notice as a Candidate for that appointment in British Columbia.
My Medical education was received in London and Paris and my qualifications are as follows. In the year 1840 I was admitted a Member of the Medical Society of Paris—in 1841 I passed the examinationsManuscript image of the Apothecaries Hall of London—in 1842 that of the College of Surgeons. I then engaged in general practice at Hailsham in Sussex—in 1848, I graduated at Kings College Aberdeen and obtained the Diploma of M.D. For the last eight years I have been a resident in this Country during which time I have been in practice in this City.
I take the liberty of enclosing a copy of a private testimonial from the late Archdeacon Hare to shew my social standing while I was living in England and one from the British Consul of thisManuscript image place as a guarantee that I am not unworthy of soliciting the appointment.
I have the honor to be
Your Excellency's
Most Obedient Servant
Thomas Bennett

The right Honble
Sir Edward Bulwer Lytton Bart
&c &c &c
Minutes by CO staff
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Mr Merivale
I am not aware of any intention at present to appoint a Colonial Surgeon?
VJ 18 Dec
HM D 20
Annex draft accordingly.
C D. 21
Other documents included in the file
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Merivale to Bennet, M.D., 27 December 1858, advising that there is no medical position available for British Columbia.
Documents enclosed with the main document (not transcribed)
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J.C. Hare to Bennett, 22 October 1847, letter of recommendation.
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W. Lane Booker, British Consul, 4 November 1858, letter of recommendation.