§ Viscount Palmerstonsaid, that the House would probably recollect, that in 1839, a commission was sent out to explore the line of boundary claimed by the British Government as the frontier of our North American colonies, and to ascertain whether that line of boundary was consistent with the general features of the country, and in conformity with the treaty. A report was made by these commissioners in 1840, and it had been laid before the House. It was then thought expedient to ascertain whether the line claimed by the government of the United States was consistent with the general features of the country, and reconcileable with the words of the treaty; if it were found otherwise, of course, it would materially strengthen the claim of Great Britain, or at all events place her claim on a better footing. Early last year, therefore, he had sent two commissioners to explore the line, and he understood that they had recently returned to this country. He wished to be informed when it was likely, 565 that their report would be in a fit state to be laid before Parliament, as a continuation of that of 1840?
§ Sir R. Peelapprehended, that there had been an intermediate report not laid upon the Table by the noble Lord while he was in office; he meant a report made, if his memory served him, in December, 1840,pursuant to instructions from the noble Lord. The commissioners referred to, had lately returned to England, and he had seen their report within the last few days. There were certain annexes to it, consisting of scientific observations and plans, which were not yet completed; and as soon as they were finished, which would only occupy a short time, the whole would be laid upon the Table.