Hall to Lieutenant-Governor Robinson, September 26, 1871

Mr. Hall to Lieutenant-Governor Robinson.

Sir: After the action of your government giving effect to the treaty of Washington, so far as the fisheries are concerned, admitting fish from the United States as bait or otherwise free of duty into this colony, and giving to United States fishing-vessels free access to the shore-fisheries around this island, those persons here who are engaged in the fishing business had supposed that their right, on the meeting of Congress, to receive back the duties paid on all fish and fish-oils exported by them to the United States since the 1st day of July-could not be questioned.

Recent reports from the United States would, however, lead to the belief that the refusal of the Dominion of Canada to give effect to the treaty of Washington may work adversely to the interests of this island, and prejudice her claims to such return of duties.

As your honor is probably aware, large investments have this year been made in the fishing business, based upon the expectation of receiving the benefit of this treaty, and a heavy loss to this island must result if the duties are not returned.

I would, therefore, esteem it as a great favor if your honor can give me any information bearing upon this subject.

I have, &c,