Mackenzie Bowell was Minister of Customs from 1867-1892, and served as Prime Minster of Canada from 1894-1896.

Minister of Customs
Canada

Ottawa
15th May 1891.

G. E. Lumsden Esq.
Corresponding Secretary
The Astronomical + Physical Society of Toronto,
Toronto, Ont.

Sir,

I am in receipt of your favor of the 14^th inst., in which you ask that telescopes and their accessories, as well as works on astronomy, star maps, &c., may be admitted duty free when imported by or for students of astronomy for purposes other than those of gain.

This is a matter which could only be dealt with by Parliament, but I will bring your letter under the notice of my colleagues when questions of Tariff charges aer under consideration.

Yours truly

M. Bowell