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Lorsque le document est trop grand pour Atre reproduit en un seul cllchA, 11 est filmA A pertir de Tangle supArieur gauche, de gauche A droite, et de haut en t>as, en prenant le nombre d'images nAcessalre. Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la mAthode. ly errata Bd to nt ne pelure, ipon A 1 2 3 32X 1 2 3 4 5 6 i^^:;:v: I ftt Pw ,Sf^ - *' p'l^, \J^ ^»J ■* *^ THB TTNilbiir OF TH B Cmms OF BBITISH AMERICA, BT OBITEB DICTUM, WITH ^«» loquimur Jkt^erit ittvida atag. ia59. i.. ^'', "'* i ' Ei^'rf"^^ /^ ^'^ ' TO MY READERS. My Friends, The following is a reprint from "The Montreal Gazelte^"* very slightly alleretl, and the nom deplume adopted, the same as I have been in the habit of using when treating of Political and Economical Subjects, both in Europe and America. My wish has been to say much in few words — avoiding all unnecessary ditfuseoess. The subject, if fully discussed, would fill volumes. Your very faithful Servant, JAMES ANDERSON, F.R.S.E., &c., Editor of " Tfie Far7ner''s Journal and Transactions of the Board ofjgri' culture of Lower Canada''^ — Author of the " Currency and Corn Law Letters," '' Philosophy of Duty, ""^ if c. Sjc, Montreal, October 26, 1859. TO Till: CITIZENS OF BRITISH AMERICA. My FniENDs, Permit me to ad'Iiesa you in the B.ime terms I have heretofore made use of 111 reference to the mo>t momentous political movement, wliich cau over aflect the Northern Continent. Now is the proper moment when the public aitt-niion should be intently concentrated on a subject of such magnitude, and pregnant with such important results to you and yours, not — like party issues - for a day or for an hour — but in perpetuity. Let us disabuse ourselves — let us fling fro'm us with merited contempt, such paltry drivellings, and for once let us comport ourselves, as becomes the htsirs of such a mighty destiny. It has been abundantly apparent to every close observer, that the policy pursued by the British (Jovern- ment, of late years, towards the British American Provinces, has been deliberately adopted and persevered in wuh the studied view of indicat- ing a predetermined resolution on the part of the Mother Country to render the Colonies, as nearly as possible, independent ; believing that the feeling ot loyalty and legitimate national pride — the former siill so fondly cherished by the many — together whh the concurrent advantage of unrestrained mutual interchange of benefits, would form a bond sulH- ciently strong to hold the countries together securely ; for, after all there is no bond so permanent as that formed by mutual attachment, strengthened by mutual interests. The frowns of power too frequently stimulate to rebellion and resolute opposition,— and treaties are too often not worth the parchment on which they are written. But though the Governor General and his Lieutenants are still sent out from England — beyond the outward forms of administiation — there is little to distinguish the Provincial Governments from independent local Sovereignties, In all matters most essential to the prosperity and happiness of thr-^ jieople — except as regards our external relations, as we shall hereafter ;i3ve oc- casion to explain — the action taken depends upon the represeni, lives of the people themselves ; and the tendency of the entire policy of the Motner Country has, ot late, been to throw upon the Colonies the duty and responsibility of governing themselves. When the writer of these remarks, some years ago, returned to the Mother Country from these Colonies, he did not shrink from the duty of representing in the proper quarter the naked truth, availing himself of tho opportunity afforded him for the purpose : — he stated advisedly, but bold- ly and unreservedly, what he, with a vast majority of the respectability and intelligence in these Colonies, believed to be the only safe line of Eolicy which could be pursued towards tho British American Provinces y the Mother Country advantageously to both ; and he has rejoiced in being p'^rmilfod to look on atlontivuly wliilst oaoh olil ami fornlly-choi- islied error of iidinini^fnvfioii liiiH b'j'Mi, in tnrn, volnntiiriiy ahaniloiit'il ami roiioiHi(!(iil, iiinl iluo rt!-i[)o(:l paid and consideration ijivon to tiiat p(jrvadin<^ ft^elinLf ainon^sl tlm (J')lonist.s which irndiiKis tlintn natnraily to wish fortlio f!outrol ot' thoii own airiirs,— and this, too, IVatdcly and voinntnrily coiu-edLHl on tlie puit of Iho Mother Country, without the moannos.s of tolerating the shadow of any unworthy fear or suspicion that such weli-timt.'d Lasnerosity might cvenlLiaily be repaid by a de- nionslration of iudillbreiK^e towards Kngland. iSo far lioni this, that sho has had a direct assurance from many intelligent and iulhiential men resi'!ent in these Provinces, that they would, personally, by no means regret to aid in the conipiete incorporation of Canada with England, provided a fair share of representation were accorded to the former ; but however this may be, it is certain that the vast majority would view with abhorrence any project which should have for its purpose a sever- ance of Canada from the British Kmpire. Nevertheless, the idea of combining the British Colonies of this Western hemisphere into one vast Federal Union has taiven a firm hold of the public mind both in the Provinces and in the Mother Country — in fact, in anticipation, it seems all but a /ail accompli. Nor can tho ambiguous position -of Canada be, for a moment, concealed whenever and wherever this subject comes under discussion. The natural position of this group of dependencies in the Northern extremity of the American continent, indicated tho necessary formation and gradual growth, at no distant tlay, of a great Northern Confederacy, which, from the elements that enter into the structure of society in Bri- tish North America, must, when consolidated, display a strength, a co- hesion, and a durability, corresponding to the materials of which it is composed. Would it not bo unreasonable to expect that an assemblage of young and thriving countries, so situated as to bo evidently designed by nature to assist and supply and interchange amongst themselves those nume- routi ailvantages whch separately, are a comparative nullity, but jointly might bo the source of untold wealth and power, can long remain neu- tral or indifferent to the manifest advantages which muat, of necessity, follow a Union of these Provinces. , Can it be held as presumption if such a nation desire should emanate from a people inhabiting a region larger than Europe — covering a wider spat'o than tho neighboring confederated States, capable of sustaining a population, — if fully peopled and its resources developed,— of a hundred million in comfort ami independence — and of absorbing the surplus po- pulation of Europe for years to come— with the wide Atlantic on the one side, and the gold-bearing regions — the diversified mineral wealth — including the inexhaustible coalmines and the expanse of the Pacific on the other — containing already within its bounds a population of 4,000,000 inhabitants, a respectable beginning fora youthful nation, and far exceed- ing the population of the neighbouring Republic when she ventured to assert her right to independence, and to walk confidently and alone and bear herself with a bold front before the assembled commonwealth of nations. Deeply impressed with such views, at an interview had lately by tho Nova Scotian delegates with the Colonial Secretary, Mr Labouchere,they -choi- (loilL'd o lliat liirally y ami iat tlio a cl«- lat sho il men means iglatui, er ; but d view sever- of this rm hold itry — in can tho henever '>Iovthern jimation etleraoy, J in Bri- th, a co- licU it is f young jy nature nume- ut jointly ain neu- lecesbity, emanate (T a wider tainmg a hundred rplus po- in the one wealth — Pacific on 4,000,000 irexceed- entured to alone and iwealth ot ely by the 5here,they were informed that llor Mnjcsly'' (iovoniment had no desire to interk'it with tlio determination to whirh the roionies themselves mijrht come on a point bo immediately aliecting tlicir own intert'sts, and that if they should be of opinion ihal re-union would atlvance their prosperity, the Government would oppose no obstacle to (he accoriiplisliment ot their wishes. Mr. Labouchere'sown ojiinion was stated to be, that he doubt- ed whether the Union of Canada and tho Lower Provinces might not embrace too wideaciicle for convenience and efficiency; he believed that the Union of the Lower Provinces would be highly beneficial, and might tend greatly to improve their position, and assist their progress. This declaration of the perfect freedom of tiie Colonies to decide this important question ior themselves seemed to be all that could be desired from the (Government, while as yet neither the Legislature nor (lie people had given any unequivocal expression of opinion on the subject. So that it remains with the Colonies to take the next step themselves, and no time will be lost in approaching this important subject in a deliberate and systematic manner. It is unnecessary to detail the progress sine* made by the Gavernment and more recently bv the opposition. Sulfice it to say that the principle of Union seeing universally a?miited as de- sirable — but parties have not decided as lo details. It being tlien now universally admitted even by our interested neigh- bors, that the state of things which existed some 15 years ago has so com- pletely changed, — the disquiet, disturbance and dissatisfaction have so completely passed away — the sentiment of the Canadas has become so thoroughly Jiritish, as scaice to admit of a possibility of their ever be- coming American— of their becoming losi in that (Jreat Republic which seeks to absorb Central America, Mexico and Cuba in its confused ag- glomeration of Slates ; and unless t-mely checked by the formation of the Great Northern Confederation, would never seek to stop the march of conquest until the boast of her enthusiasts should be realized, and the universal Continent should crouch beneath her unequal and despo- tic yoke — it would say require the aid of no prophet to ibretell the re- sult, could she partially succeed in satiating her insatiable thirst for conquest. To have talked of such a Union some years ago would have been premature. The communication between the separate communities was slow and infrequent — the habhs of the people, their religions and I uiguages so dissimilar — that it was necessary to wait patiently for the occurrence of the events of the last few years before anything conld be done towards changing their territorial and political relations. Jjut such a change could now be eflbcted with comparative ease, and with the certainty of success ; and a Confederation of stalely proportions conld be initiated, combining the essential elements of solid prosperity and healthful and vigorous growth. The Colonial Secretary lias declared that he only awaits to hear from Canada before announcing the decision of the British Government, touching a monopoly, winch, however ven- ■erable by its antiquity of two centuries is by no means well adapted to the development of a country's resources in these days of progress ; and public sentiment in Great Britain and the Colonies has already antici- pated the determination of the Government. The recent concessions and admissions of the Colonial Office to the Seabord Colonies, present further proof of the fixed delerminalion of Britain to acquiesce m the expressed wishes of hei- faithful colonists. Tho amalgamntion of the Provincial f JovornmontH, ami tho perfect- ing of their iiiUr-corniniiiiicntioiiB, would obviato tlio dilliculty uniler which Cana la at present labors lor tivo moiUlis in thu yuar, when she is periodically compelled to seek an outlet for her produce througli tho United States ; and so complete is tho revolution of sentiment within tho neighboring States, that, in prospect of such a Union as wo have been indicating, the State of Maine, by the voice of one of her public organs lias expressed her willingness to become a party to the (-Ireat Northern Confederation. And tlie progress of improvement has at lengtli pointed to a railroad across tho Continent within the Bri'ish dominions, having its western terminus at Fucas Straits, and leading directly through a rich mineral and settlement country., great part of the route, to the gold- bearing region of Vancouver and the West. The exhaust less fisheries of Newfoundland will afford ample employ- ment to thousands of hardy tishermen, and, the nation to which they shall belong, will provid(j a great nursery of seamen — a hanly race inured to the perils of the sea, capable of furnishing a sustained supply lor a na- tional navy, whose Hag will yet be respected throughout the world. Ikit in the event of war, — clisnnited as tho Mritish provinces at present are, — how would Canada be placed ? No doubt her bravo and hardy yeomanry would defend their country with becoming spirit. Shut out dur- mg the winter, except by a long and tedious journey thrcnigh the wilder- ness the want of a through communication with a British seaport through British American territory wouM be felt as a national calamity — and no time will bo lost in supplying this defect. But however distant the evil day may be — and we heartily pray that long it may be delayed — it is wise to bo prepared against any event. Energectic progress, and a tide of prosperity, with unmistakeable manifestations of strength and vigor, will at times serve to repel tlie rapacious spoiler ; and every pains should be taken to renew anil perfect our emigration system, in order the more speedily to increase our numbers, which is at this moment, and ever lias been, lamentably faulty and deficient. It will not do to retain a tattered system of motley patchwork, tinkered by each adventurous Minister in succession — each, no doubt, doing his best at experimental- ising, and, in his piety, adding his contributions to the shapeless, in- choate and unworkable mass of regulation and legislation, which puts one in mind o( tlie old joke of rules and regulations for regulating the rules that rule the regulars. It also puts one in mind of the venerable departmental farce which has so often been acted to the life in high places, and played oil' on our expectant people, ycleped much-ado about notliing. It is painful to witne,ss the bootless attempts of one Minister after another, professing much, but after all perfecting a substantial nothing. No doubt it might well have been said of more than one : " Projicit ampuUas et sesqiiipcddliu verhu^^ ; but nevertheless verifying the truth of the old proverb: ^^ ISon a <[unvis ligno Jit Mcrcurrus." But the country will not be satisfied Willi a system of regulations which can only be regarded by a practical man as a hetero',h are already strained to the utmost. It is not to shadow forth any unworthy spnit of discontent or petulant dissatisfaction that w^ adventure the remark that the true lesson to be derived from the severance between the Mother Country and the neigh- boring States would seem to be, that in dealing with the Colonies the utmost tenderness and caution on the part of the Imperial Government is required, so that there shall be no meddling or unnecessary interfe- rence on the part of that Government with matters purely local ; and we think, beyond all doubt, that the Provinces ought to be suitably re- presented in the Imperial Legislative Assembly of the Realm. Her Colonial possessions are indispensable to Great Britain — providing an exodus for her surplus population ; and this very emigrant population at a future day, if their national memories have been, by kindly tieat- ment, preserved, endearing and warm, will be bulwark and support, — making common cause with her in every necessity, promulgating lier policy, exulting in their unity, and holding fast by her imperishable traditions. In Canada and liritish America allegiance should not require to be perpetuated by coercion, but should flow from feeling natural and hereditary. Is it not full time then, with a full assurance of the existence of such feeling, that the occasion should be improved, — that all blind obedience to former usage should be dispensed with, — that the influence and privilege ot mature years should be respected by an indulgent moiher, — that tlie position and prospective greatness of her British American olT- spring should be regarded in a liberal, candid,and enllightened spirit ; and it is worthy of mature consideration whether the period has not arrived, when they ought to assume a position of constructive independence, an- ticipatory of the high destiny whicli so certainly and, talking of nations, so immediately awaits them. The idea ot Colonial Representation ia not a new one. During the discussion on the Relorm Bill of 1831, PIr. Hume brought forward a motion for Colonial Representation ; and it is now about to be renewed by parties on both sides of the House in the Imperial Parliament. By such means only can the Colonies be permanently preserved to the Bri- tish Crown. Such alone is compatible with their welfare and the dig- nity of their position. And if this mode of conservation and restraining caution is not taken in time, the result will inevitably be, that the dis- tant extremities will drop off from the body of the nation, from their own unwieldy and ponderous weight. Would it not be better to take care that they be bound together by strong and permanent ties, so that Bri- tish America, covering an area larger than all Europe, should be united by a voluntary and iidissoluble bond — so that by degrees their tariffs, their currency, their laws, their interests should become identical and in common, enabling her to prepare to assume a commanding position in the commonwealth of nations, — and if need be to afford available assis- 9 alike from e bestowed atified with tice oi° inoBt aintecl with ch men are lensible re- 8olid tie of the utmost. or petulant leeson to bo I the neigh- ;!!olonie8 the Jovernment iaiy interle- locai ; and suitably re- ealm. Her )rovic]ing an population :indly tieat- i support, — ligatjng lier II perishable 1 not require natural and le existence lat all blind he influence went mo: her, merican olT- d sphit ; and not arrived, ndence, an- g of nations, During the [it forward a be renewed ament. By i to the Bri- and the dig- 1 restraining that the dis- m their own to take care so that Bri- Id be united their tarifTs, dentical and g position in ilable assis* lance both in men and money, if ever any attempt should be made to invade tlie palladium of freedom and Christianity, — in fact to be the true representative of British freedom and civilization on this Northern Con- tinent — as if Britain herself had taken one step in advance in tier pro- gress towards the distribution of freedom and enlightenment amongst the countless Isles of the Pacific. The growing importance of our Colonies is undeniable — but their weakness is equally apparent from want of union. The free population of the United States irom 1841 to 1851 has increased 37 per cent., the colored 27 per cent. During the same period tlie growth of the two Canadas have been 69 per cent., and of Upper Canada 104 per cent. In Upper Canada the agricultural produce has quadrupled in ten years preceding 1851, and its shipping has doubled in the same period. The consumption of British manufactures since 1852 is on an average of £2 6s. a head, that of the United States only £1 2s. a head. Such sus- tained prosperity is perhaps unexampled in the history of the world. Our national force is in the course of being thoroughly organized, and in the event of a Union of the Provinces would be capable on an emergen- cy of great expansion, and would be available in time of need lor the service and support of Britain. Surely this is worthy of close attention ; and we sincerely hope that a proper system with the Colonies may be adopted without loss of time, so that the Mother Country may not again be put to the discreditable shift of hiring the assistance of foreign mer- cenaries — trusting her well earned and proud reputation to the keeping of hirelings drawn Irom the banded scum of Kurope. Would it not be wiser to place her trust in blood and kindred — in tlie inheritants of her sacred traditions and memories? At this point we have to beg the favour of our readers, whoever they may be — whether consenting or differing with us in opinion — not to rise impulsively, if we should differ with them on one or more points, and cast away our brochure — but courteously beg of them to be seated, and do us the kindness of politely hearing us to the end. Our great anxiety is to do away with all asperity of feeling on every side, and all we claim is a fair and dispassionate hearing. Our interests are now becoming almost in the literal and universal sense. National and Reciprocal. Soon will the time come when the inhabitant of the British Isles may purchase and hold for his own enjoyment and recreation an estate in Canada, as he now does a Highland moor. Soon will the High- land shooting mania pass bye. The sport will become too common place. The fashion Avill — like those before it — speedily pass away. We must cross the broad sea to partake in the sports of another conti- nent — with the buffalo, the wappati and the elk for our chase, and the boundless prairie and the forest for our hunting grounds. Let there, then, be no show of hesitation on either side. Let the al- teration of policy be at once proclaimed, and there can be no doubt it will be hailed on all sides whh enthusiasm. The primary mind of the Canadian Legislative Assembly was long ago prepared lor the incorpor- ation of the British American Provinces. There can be no doubt the Provinces are agreed in again recommending it. The absence o/ union deprives them of consentaneous action, both political and administrative, — they are discouraged by anomalies innumprable, — they will reflect with no bitterness on the exclusiveness of liberalism to the reform of 10 i \ I ; H i! h 1832, bat will be contented with receiving, undeV any anew distribution of the I'raiichise, a certain sliare of representation, wliiJsi tiiej' will be permitted to assume, by union, that position before the world so well be- coming the children of such a parent. Ten or twelve years ayo we prepared a detailed scheme for the Union of the Brhish American Pro- vinces more full and complete — because more compendious — than that of Uniacke and Sewell. It will be, no doubt, forthcoming when this (}uestion shall assume a more practical shape. This Union was recom- mended by Lord Durham, and the propriety, if not the necessity, ot its adoption is very ably argued in his Lordship's well known and valuable Reports. We have already said it has received the sanction of the Le- gislative Assembly of Canada, and the proposal was well received out of doors, and is extremely popular in the Lower Provinces. British Americans are especiAlly anxious that there should be no un- necessary delay in accord mg this boon, as they are incessantly tanta- lized by the overshadowing might of the iVIother Country and the neigh- bouring Republic, and are particularly sensitive and conscious of their unmistakeable inferiority in the estimation of the world. Let an Ame- rican citizen go where lie pleases — he is feted and beflattered, particu- larly if he should be so fortunate as to hold any public office. But, at present, a Canadian is passed over without distinction when from home, and when at home he is cast into the shade by the surpassing magni- ficence of his neighbour. Across the lines he sees men emerging from the humblest stations and becoming the tenants of places w'hich force them to a level with the first poentates of the earth ; honored, respected and fbittered — while British America has seldom been heard of — is re- garded wiih inferiority — and her citizens pass unhonoured and unnoticed. Why should it be so ? If she were enfranchised and united, she would' speedily assume a distinguishing rank ; — and as the exclusive ^"us togcp distinguished the Roman citizen in every quarter of the world, and sti- mulated him to uphold the national reputation, let us contemplate with becoming anxiety and pride the speedy approach of the hour when the distinction of being a British American Citizen will be a passport the world over, and claim itistant recognhion and respect in every corner of the earth. Does our territory doom us to any comparative inferiority ? Does our descent justify us in brooking it unnecessarily, when there is no desire on any side to degrade us with a reflection so derogatory ? At present there is no means — no opportunity of gratifying the lofty aspirations of the powerful intellect — the original thinker — the exper- ienced and liberal minded statesman. He is precluded, trom his posi- tion, from gaining- experience or indulging in large and comprehensive views. Personal ambition is thwarted, and the intellectual are driven from necessity to exercise their talents in the petty game of party and faction to the exclusion of nobler aims and more worthy objects. Such a Union as we recommend would satisfy the natural cravings of praise- worthy ambition. It opens up a larger field, and directs high talent to nobler aims and objects. It would teach us to look to our past national traditions for our antecedents, and to our adopted country and its glorious destiny for their future. It would give us something to cling to, — some- thing to honour, — something to love. And this would stimulate us to deeds which would gain us honor, respect and regard in every free and Chiistian country. istnbution ;)' will be well he- rs ajio we ican Pro- -than that when this as recom- sitv, ot its i valuable of the Le- ceiveJ out be no un- ntly tanta- the neigh- US of their t an Ame- d, particu- !. But, at rom home, ng magni- rging from i^'hich force , respected 1 of — is re- unnoticed. she would' ejus togcp Id, and sti- iplate with r when the assport the rery corner Inferiority ? en there is atory ? g the lofty the exper- n his posi- prehen^ive are driven party and cts. Such 3 of praise - fh talent to st national its glorious to, — some- lulate us to ry free and 11 Union is strength. vVhat would these Provinces have aiready done had this Union been consummated ? Removed as they are socially mid politically Irom each other, — their free commercial intercourse im{)eded, — separated by troublesome commercial barriers as if th^y stood in ilj« relation of independent countries, — in what direction are we to iook for the elements of strength. Literature and mechanical inventions are re- tarded, and the general interests would seem to demand loudly and con- vincingly a firm and speedy Union. The prospectus ot ihe Pucilic Rail- road is already issued. It may be regarded as a a fait acarnipli. It IS a necessity, — being merely a portage connecting Europe wilh the countries of the Pacific and farthest India. It cannot be delayed. So that the Southern Continent and its disjecta membra will be bcund to- gether with bamis of iron and that speedily, — and every deprecatory discouragement on the plea of inconvenient distance will ispeeilily vau- ish, and the realization of the mighty scheme is already at our doors. But, on approaching the question more closely, we are led to a criti- cal view of the dissimilarity between the political condition and circum- stances of the British North American Colonies and those of any confe- deration of States which has ever existed. The aim and object of nny such confederation has been with re'erence to foreign relations. The United Stales Government has been entrusted with a more extensive power of supervision over individual States and more numerous rights of interfereuco in the internal affairs of the collective body than havb ever been entrusted to any other Federal Government, viz. : — The ex- clusive power to make war and lo niise and equip armies ; to make peace, and conclude treaties of commerce with foreign powers ; and, to carry out these arrangements, the farth^'r power of levying taxes. The powers of the Federal Government to interfere with the affairs of the Union are few and inconsiderable. The principal are, controlling the Post Office and enacting Patent and Copyright laws. Besides these, authority over all territory belonging to the Union, but not included in any individual State, is vested exclusively in the Federal Government. Now, the prerogatives of the Federal Government could not be extended a hair's breadth beyond the limits prescribed by the constitution, with- out bringing about a collision witli the inilividual States. Is it not clear, that under our present relations to the Mother Country the possession of the principal of these rights would amount to an impossibility, — the rights in fact which give a standing and position to the Central Govern- ment, — the right to raise and equip armies, and conclude treaties: and, the only power left would be the management of the Post Office, and legislating on questions of Naturalization and Copyright, and it could not levy taxes beyond tlie actual requirements of its own Civil List. Such a government would speedily become a betim and a ridicule But, in consenting to such a Union, Britain would probably consent to bestow upon th(?se Provinces the charge of providing and sustaining the Naval and Military forces necessary for their security — to check internal dis- order and repel foreign aggression ; and this would secure to them a certain degree of moral weight throughout the confederation. And in the arrangement made for the erection of British Columbia (New Cale- donia) into a separate Province in the meantime,— it is contemplated that a future demand will be made for admission into tho Union which 12 't i is a pretty distinct foreshadow ina: of the views entertained by the Ini- perial Government. In the event of theae conceflsions by the Imperial Government, eliil we do not see on what terms a Federal Constitution could be formed in those Provinces without constant disputing and misuntlerstanding, — without the occurrence of conflicting rights and rival interests, — without contendmgs between Imperial, Provincial and Federal authorities ad inhnitum ; and we do not think, ii practicable, such a Union would be at all desirable, or suited to the genius of the people or the steady and permanent development of the mighty resources of Brhish America. No such objections, however, are applicable to the plan of a Legis- lative Union. What we would recommend for Canada would be the very reverse of what obtains in the constitution of the neighbouring Federation. There each State being itself sovereign, only so much power is delegated to the Central Congress as is needful for strictly spe- cified purposes common to all the States, and the individual States may take any course of legislation they please on all except the few except- ed subjects. But, in Canada, we would have the sovereignty, or Avhat should stand as its representative, entire in the Central authority, and the local divisions, unions of counties, counties, and municipalities exercisini^ their delegated functions, being bound to submission to the Central authority when its legitimate powers were exercised, and con- form to the established principles of the Federal legislation. We have a wholesome dread of the multiplied dangers and weakness of centra- lization when carried too far, and we have abounding confidence in the vigour, flexibility, safety, and permanence of local institutions. Such a Union or Federation could take place immediately, and would require no change whatever in the constitution which each individually now enjoys, or in relation to the Mother Country. No important political movement could be more simple — more pregnant with important results — nothiuii could enlist public opinion on its side more certainly, or be consummated with more heartfelt enthusiasm. No greater change would be required than definitively settling the location of the Seat of Government in the meantime. But the prudence of changing that loca- lity at any future time, in compliance with the requirements or general wishes of the inhabitants, should never be allowed to impede or retard such an important movement as the Union of these Provinces. Get this accomplished in the first place without fail and without delay, — and do not take up time in fruitless cavilling about the location of the Seat of Government. Internal individual reforms have already taken place, or are progressing ; and the principle of Municipal Corporations, which has already been attended with success in Canada, furnishes the best security against injurious centralization. Thus, under the extend- ed Union advocated, would immediate and ample security be given for the protection of local interests ; and much more effective and reliable than the cumbrous existing machinery by which each Province is allowed, as af present, to manage its exclusive local aflfairs. But the great point to be gained under such an arrangement would be, that thence- ■ forth no apprehension need be entertained that any one of these muni- cipalities would, at any time, become inconveniently influential or dangerous, so as to interfere with tlie smooth working of the machinery of government j and it woulil be impossible to conceive of any other t3 by the Im- iment, still e formed ia standing, — s, — without thorities ad m would be steady and \raerica. of a Legis- ould be the sighbouring y so much strictly spe- States may few except- ty, or what liority, and inieipalities >Bion to the i, and con- We have ! of centra- ence in the ions. Such >uld require dually now int political rtant results ainly, or be iter change the Seat of ig that loca- 5 or general ie or retard inces. Gel lut delay, — ition of the eady taken orporations, irnishes the the extend- 36 given for nd reliable Province is s. But the that thence- hese muni- fluential or machinery F any other which could be continued with a similar recommetidatton. This would ensure eqii.Jity and identity of general inlureitts while local interests would be left in the safe keepiuii of the local councils. If it should be necessary to club the inlurusts of several counties for the purpose of carrying out any local improvement in whii h ttiey could show a mutual interest, a provision might be made similar to that now so much desider- ated and counselled in Britain, by which they might unite together for such important public purposes, — and for sucli purposes proviiiion might be made for the extension of the principle wherever good cause could be shown for its proper application. Would it not be prudent, when we are left to pick and choose for ourselves, not only to select the best model, but to shape it so as to suit our tastes and necessities— making choice of the best materials at will ? To those croakers who would object to our proposal, instancing the unsuccess of the Canadas, we would reply, that the safety and success of the principle depends upon its extension, — and that its limited appli- cation could afTord the only possibility ot misadventure. Are we to be deprived of our birthrights, of the extension of our legitimate authority ? Is the progress of this great country towards distinct nationality to be retarded by the intense impertinence ol such a motley and insigniiicant brotherhood? Soon will they be contented to hide their diminished heads, and be glad to mingle, silent and rebuked, amidst the rejoicing crowd of a happy and united people. It is well that all public questions, pregnant with such important re- sults, should be well weighed and deliberately considered beforehand ; so that if need be, prompt and decisive action may be taken at any time, without unnecessary delay. The British North American Provinces are not blind to the large ex- penditure necessarily consequent on the keeping on foot a standing ar- my and efficient navy and the other concomitants and requisites of an Independent Nationality. Neither are they regardless of Britain's powerful aid in times of actual warfare, — the moral influence among na- tions of the preftige of her mijihty name, — which may long prevent open hostilities in North America, and which never shone loith with more brilliance or splendour than at the present moment. 'ihen, why not have precisely the same Legislative Union of the several Provinces above suggested, — the people governing themselves in all matters where no Imperial interests are at stake, levying and expending their own taxes, with their representatives in the imperial Parliament to give their countenance to the latter, — enacting their own laws — with a Prince of the Blood Royal of England exercising the func- tions of Chief Magistrate, — not in the character of Sovereign, but Vice- roy? Canada and the North American Provinces would thus enjoy the pro- tection of England as heretofore, and the prestige of her mighty name : whilst a more intimate Union would be realized and cemented, and one safe and secure step taken m the direction of Independent Nationality, - when the time appointed by the decree of Providence shall fully come round. Canada is now as free as she could desire to be,~except in name ; and the arrangement above pointed at,— when the late change of government in the Indian dependencies is borne in mind— is proposed Jl 14 >{ t if I: with view to £»oneral consolidation, and to the creatiiiff and fostering of reciprooal interests, destined to terminate in the perpetuation of the most enduring and permanent ties. Suuh an arrangement would be a perfect Becurity n«jain8t abrupt and headlong change ; and the country wonid thus advance towards the goal of Inilepondent Nationality at a measured and deliberate psice ; and would, at the appointed time, be prepared to take her place amongst the commonwealth of nations with an easy grace and a feeling of be- coming confidence, which could not fail to secure to her, at the appointed time, a cordial and respectful welcome. I have the honor to be, Your obedient eervant, OBITER DICTUM, Montreal, October, 1858— Reprinted October 26, 1859. 1(1 fostering of L»n of tho most 8t abrupt anil vards tlio goal pfice ; and ficH amongst "eelinnr of ba- the appointed CTUM, THE " LONDON TIMES'- ON THE ST. LAWRENCE ROTITE AND SUBSIDIES TO OCEAN STEAMEES. {From the Times Aug. 6, 1859.) In most ages of mankind the destinies of States have depended on the track of commerce. Cities have been madw and unmade, and king- doms elevated or depressed, by simple and silent changes in the course of trade. The mighty rums in Asiatic plains mean olten nothing more than that the adoption of some new route by a Jine ot caravans left a proud and stately emporium stranded and desolate. The ancient porta in the basm of the Mediterranean whose historical names arrest every traveller's attention hare become what they are because commercial revolutions took away their shipping, and with theirshippingtlieir vital- ity. Venice, Lisbon, and Amsterdam have felt in latter days the ebb of trade, while its flow has been sutHcient, as we see, to create in San Francisco, Singapore, and Melbourne such interests as in former days oouM never have been conceived. There was once a time, when the critical region of the world was India, and when upon the communica- tions between that country and Europe the fortunes of intermediate States seemed permanently to turn. But India has now been compelled, if not to relinquish, at any rate to divide her pre-eminence. There is another region with more important commerce, though a less romantic history. Instead of the diamonds of Golconda and the silks ot Ben- gal, we see the breadstuffs of Ohio and Michigan absorbing the expec- tations of Europe. The West is eclipsing the East, — all the more so because it is new, limitless, and inexhaustible. We may trade with America tor centuries and yet find it more productive than India is now. That prodigious continent is a perfect nursery of States, and the link connecting the two worlds is strengthened by the fact that more goes to the commerce between them than gold and goods. We supply Amer- ica with people. The tide of population, which from the earliest ages set in from the East, is now carried onwards to the West more marvel- lously than ever. It is transported across the Atlantic, and then again pushed to the western extremities of the new continent, until nothing but a second ocean separates it from those eastern highlands in which our race took its rise. We are not indulging in these reflections without a practical object. At this moment the route of commerce far more important than that by which Augsburg or Bruges was left to rise or fall is trembling in a poli- tical balance. How are the products of Western America to reach tho expectant consumers of Europe ? By what track are the swarms of Eu- ropean emigrants to be carried into the spacious and fertile provinces of the West ? Through what channels is this interchange of exports to pass ? What cities are to be enriched ; what States to be elevated ; what nations to be aggrandized ? There is a double choice before us. Tho alternative is Canada or the United States, and the rivalry for the noble prize has been gallantly maintained. Unfortunately, the fight is not a fair one, and England stands chargeable with unwittingly damaging the chances of that competitor whose interests she might naturally be ex- pected to prefer. i ■::| ■ I, 16 Tlio goograpliical position of Canadii plaoos its ItMiitoiies between lliose of Western America ami the Atlantic Ocean. The li^reat river St. Lawrence and the va.st inland laltes with which it is connected offer a natural and convenient highway for the tiallic of the West. Were ift not for the ice of winter and certain ditlicnities 'n the navigation, it is probable that Quebec would have become the great emporium of this commerce in spite of all compotitioi'. But the people of the Uuited Slates, fully aliv ;o the interests at stake and animated by the irnjiort- ance of the contest, omitted no efforts to give this lucrative traflic a turn towards the south. A plight deflection would do the work, and carry it off to die ocean by New York and Boston, instead of through the waters of the St. Lawrence. At first the Americans succeeded. While Cana- da was engaged with locks and lighthouses, canals and tugboats, the United States pushed on their chain of railways, and Boston and New York became fairly the termini of Atlantic navigation. Canada, how- ever, was keen, resolute and unconquerable. She held on her course with steady pertinacity, and the British Government encouraged her ex- ertions by guaranteeing a loan. At last, after an expenditure of millions, the route was complete, and the course of traffic to the mouth of the St. Lawrence was as clear as to the American ports. But here there arose another difficulty. The Americans had, as it were, possession of the ocean. Liverpool had been linked by great steam navigation companies to New York and Boston ; in those ports, therefore, would commerce still tend — that of corn from the West, that of men from the East. Not to be outdone in the strugole, Canada then built steamers of her own, and suddenly appeared with an Atlantic fleet, like the Romans against the galleys of the Carthagenians. Thus, at length, the field seemed fair, and if, other things being equal, Canada had really the best ground, now was the time for Canada to win. In these days, however, commerce, like war, is an affair not merely of courage and resolution, but of loans and subsidies. Canada found arrayed against her not only steamers, but subsidized steamers — not only rival lines, but rival lines established and maintained by the con- tributions of her own natural protector and ally. The Cunjird line and the Galway line both running from British, not to Canadian, but to Amer- ican territory, were founded upon subsidies from the British Govern- ment, so that our own loyal dependency was likely to be worsted in the race through the aid which we ourselves contributed to her compe- titors. What was Canada to do ? She had already pushed abreasit of her rival at all points; she had opened communications, constructed always, and launched a steam fleet. There was only one thing more to be done, and that was to subsidize her own line, as we had subsi- dized the lines against her, and this she did. She had spent £650,000 in building her steamers ; she now paid £45,000 a year to put them on a level with ours, and the enterprise has succeeded. The Canadian line is as good as the Cunard line, and it would be hard to say more. One of its vessels— the « Hungarian" — has actually made three con- secutive voyages across the broad Atlantic in lees than S8 days altogether.