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Date: 1865-07-20
By: A.H. Layard
Citation: Despatch from A.H. Layard to Sir Frederic Rogers (20 July 1865) in Newfoundland, Journal of the Legislative Council of the Island of Newfoundland, Appendix No. 53—Copy of Despatch and Enclosure from the Secretary of State for the Colonies, conveying Earl Russell’s recommendation for appointment of a Confederate Council chosen by all the North American Colonies, &c. &c. (1866).
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FOREIGN OFFICE,
July 20th, 1865.

SIR,—

In reply to your letter of the 3rd instant, I am directed by Earl Russell to request that you will state to Mr. Secretary Cardwell that negotiations have not yet been commenced for the renewal of the Reciprocity Treaty.

The interests of Nova Scotia will be duly consulted: but it would, His Lordship considers, save much embarrassment, delay and difficulty, if the faculty of giving an opinion to Her Majesty’s Government in the negotiation of Commercial Treaties were vested in a Confederate Council chosen by all the North American Provinces and presided over by the Governor General of Canada.

I am, &c.,
(Signed),

A. H. LAYARD.

SIR FREDERIC ROGERS, Bart.
&c.,     &c.