Colonial Despatches
The colonial despatches of Vancouver Island and British Columbia 1846-1871
Despatch from London
Pelham-Clinton, Henry Pelham Fiennes to Douglas, James 10 February 1863, NAC RG7:G8C/10, 334.
Abstract
Despatch from London.
This document contains mentions of Indigenous Peoples. The authors of these documents
often perpetuate a negative perspective of Indigenous Peoples and it is important
to look critically at these mentions. They sometimes use terminology that is now considered
hurtful and offensive. To learn more about modern terminology pertaining to Indigenous
Peoples, Indigenous ways of knowing, and decolonization, please refer to the Glossary of terms.
No. 11
Downing Street
10 February 1863
Sir,
I have the honor to acquaint you that I have received through the
Board of Admiralty the Reports of the proceedings made by the Naval
Officers who captured certain Indians implicated in the Murder of two
white men nearFort
Fort Simpson, and who inquired into other disputes with
the Indians on the North West Coast of Vancouver's Island.
Fort Simpson, and who inquired into other disputes with
the Indians on the North West Coast of Vancouver's Island.
It appears from these Reports that the Indians are in the habit of
obtaining spirits from Masters of Trading Vessels. I do not doubt that
if any such cases should be duly substantiated, and brought within the
scope of the law, youwill
will deal with due rigor with any traders who may
illegally sell spirits to the Indians.
will deal with due rigor with any traders who may
illegally sell spirits to the Indians.