COLONEL SYKES, who had given notice to ask the Secretary of State for War, Whether Consul Cameron holds a Commission in Her Majesty's Army at present; and, whether he formerly held a Commission; and, if so, what were the alleged reasons for his retirement? said, he wished to say a word in explanation of his Question. On looking at the blue book, he found that Mr. Cameron was sometimes addressed as Consul and sometimes as Captain Cameron. He would simply ask, whether Consul Cameron held a Commission in Her Majesty's Army?
§ SIR JOHN PAKINGTONThe hon. and gallant Gentleman placed on the Paper a Question of a rather more extended character than that which he has just asked; but I hope that, in justice to Consul Cameron, I may be allowed to answer the Question as it stands on the Paper. Consul Cameron does not now hold a Commission in Her Majesty's Army. He did so formerly—namely, from 1846 to 1851. He was then an ensign in the 45th Regiment; but in 1851 he sold out in consequence of his being unable to obtain promotion under the purchase system. He then settled in the Colony of Natal, and served in command of an irregular force during the Kaffir War. For his services at that period he received the war medal. Subsequently he served under Sir William Fenwick Williams, before and after the siege of Kars. During that time he held the local rank of captain. I have seen a certificate from Sir Fenwick Williams relating to Consul Cameron's military services at that period, and in it his gallantry and ability are spoken of in the highest terms.
COLONEL SYKESsaid, he was glad the right hon. Baronet had answered the latter part of the Question as it stood on the Paper. He had not put it, because he had been requested not to do so.