The contents are as follows. (i) Correspondence relating to the raising of Canadian troops for imperial service, 1885 (folio 1); (ii) Correspondence and papers relating to the North-West Rebellion, 1885-1894. This includes material concerning the events of the rebellion itself, and later correspondence and printed historical notes on Sir Frederick Middleton's part in the campaign. For an account of the background to the sentencing and execution of Louis Riel, see MS.12507 (folio 51); (iii) Correspondence and papers relating to the Canadian Defence Commission, 1884-1885 (folio 234); (iv) Memorandum and correspondence concerning possible Fenian raids 1885 (folio 299); (v) Miscellaneous papers and notes, 1883-1885 (folio 308).