The weather for the remaining seasons of the year may be termed enjoyable.  A fresh bracing breeze from the south east blows almost continually, the thermometer averaging during the day from 80 to 85 degrees.  This temperature, with the cool nights, (sufficiently so to render a blanket welcome) and delightful sea bathing, prevent any of the lassitude or enervating influence so common to tropical climates elsewhere from being felt at Somerset.

28.  During the time of my residence here no serious indisposition has occurred among the European residents.  Occasional slight attacks of illness generally traceable to some cause, has taken place, but as far as can be judged there is no ‘local malady’.  There has been no symptom of fever or ague, which it was apprehended would be prevalent during the rainy season, as in other hot countries.  Dr. Haran, R.N., (the naval surgeon in charge) reports very favorably of the salubrity of the climate.  I have every reason to believe with Dr. Haran, that at no very distant period, when steam communication through Torres Straits shall have been establish, Somerset will be eagerly sought by invalids from the East as an excellent and accessible sanatorium.

29.  At all events, there can be no doubt but that the new settlement will fulfil admirably the objects for which it was founded, ‘i.e.’, a port of call and harbor of refuge for trade in the dangerous navigation of Torres Straits, and a coal depot for steamers.

30.  I almost fear that in the foregoing remarks it may be considered that on some subjects I have entered too much into details, while on others my notices have been too slight.  I have endeavored, as much as possible, to confine myself to subjects of interest, and you may rely on my statements as the result of personal observation.  Should there be any particular point on which the Government may require more specific information, I shall be most happy, if it be in my power, to afford it.

I have the honor to be, Sir,
Your most obedient servant,
John Jardine, P.M.

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Port Albany.

Overland journey of the Messrs.  Jardine to the port Albany settlement.

Somerset, May 1, 1865.

Sir,—­Since the date of my last report the most important intelligence which I have to communicate is the arrival of my sons, Frank and Alexander Jardine, with their overland party, all safe and well, after an extremely arduous and toilsome journey of five months, almost entirely over country which for the greater part may be termed barren, the distance travelled over being somewhat more than 900 miles.