The Colonial Secretary had been confused about the date of the deputation and had blamed Buxton for not continuing his former negotiations with the government but acting independently. Eventually, he had agreed to hear it and to report to the Cabinet. Lushington had then spoken about the steamer for the survey expedition and Normanby had claimed that it was ready. Buxton had attempted, in vain, to see all the Ministers and had heard at the Treasury that they were disappointed that he would not accept the seat for Perth and that Melbourne was reading his book with great interest. They describe a meeting at which Buxton had nominated Sir Robert Inglis as President of the new African Civilization Society but had, instead, been himself chosen; Trew was Secretary and Stokes was his assistant. McQueen was nominated to direct the commercial side, and Captain Fitzroy had indicated that he would be willing to assume charge of the expedition. They describe their reading with Buxton of Fox's letter from the Gambia and Dr Beke's papers warning of the danger that they might encourage the King of Shoa to exterminate all the peoples between him and the sea to open up the inland route and recording Beke's intention to lead a mission to Ankober. They report that Buxton had departed for Northrepps in good spirits, despite believing that the expedition would be delayed for a year. Sarah Buxton describes their reception by Edward and his family and Buxton's telling Edward to place Beatty at the bottom of the list for promotions because of the florid way in which he expressed himself. (Copy.)