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OHAllLOTTETOVVN, P. E. I. WILLIAM H. HRKMNER, PRINTER, KENT STREET. 1867. SI9.I I 1 I r 1 ^7169 ^<\9 TO THE rUBLIC. < • In presenting the present little volume for the favor- able consideration ot the Public, the writer respectfully tenders his thanks to his numerous patrons for the many instances of kind atteniion, by which he has already been favored. Many of the pieces in this cellection have appeared ' before, having been struck oflF in sheets when they were written. Verses, composed upon some of the principal events which have transpired in this Island and else- where, since the appearance of the first volume of the Island Minstrel, in 18G0, are now brought together in a more compact form, and presented to the reading public as samples of home-made verse ; and which, — he flatters himself — if not so fine as some of the imported articles in the Rhyming department, may nevertheless be considered passable, as genuine specimens of Island production. It may perhaps be due to the subscribers for this book to explain, briefly, why some pieces, which might have been expected to appear in this volume, have not been inserted. At the request of a friend, for whose judgment the author entertains a very high respect, .. VI PREFACE. several pieces — marked with an tisterlak in the Table OF Contents — which appeared in the first voluine of the Minstrel, are now re-printed. This occasioned the suppression of a number of later pieces ; for, not being very well acquainted with the number of pages which would be required to include the whole, it was found, before they were all printed, that his available space was taken up, and, as the covers had in the meantime been made of a size to contain a certain number of pages, it was not possible to increase the bulk of the book without rendering the covers useless — a procee- dure which would have occasioned a heavy additional outlay, and been attended with serious inconvenience to the Printer and Bookbinder. Hoping that the readers of these pages will be as indulgent as their good nature under the circumstances above detailed will permit, the Author, not without some hope of success, again " Launches his uuprctcnding rhymes Upon the current of the times— Where Fortune's winds capricious play, And hopes are I'ounder'd every day." Whether they shall sink or swim must be left to the decision of a discriminating Public, whose humble servant he professes to be. JOHN LE PAGE. i i TABLE OF CONTKNTS. * I.ICKNTIA VATUM 9 * WKI.COME TO rilK TUIXCK OF WAf.KS 18 * ALnnm* ki>waui>, imiinok. of walks, at thk tomh OF wasiiinjjton 17 TIIK I.AXn C!OMMISSION 19 I.IN'K.S ON TIIK DKATII OF JAMICS STKWAK'l' 57 SIIOOTINO KXTRAOnDINAUY 61 ♦ AUDUK88 TO PUINCK KDWAUD ISLAND 6(» 80UTHKUN SLAVKUY AND AMERICAN DISUNION 71 LINKS ON TIIK DKATII OF MESSRS. WKIIli AND WORKMAN 7'* LINKS SPOKEN AT TIIK SOIREE OF THE ClIARLOTTETOWN DEBATINO CLITR 77 ST. PATRICK'S DAY : — PADDY THB PIPER 80 ANSWER— MICKEY TIIK HARPER 83 PADDY TO HIS FRIEND MICKEY 86 MICKEY'S ADDRESS TO PADDY'S FAIR FRIEND 87 PADDY TO MICKEY JK) LOSS OF THE ' EYO ' *.>4 A ROLAND FOR AX OLIVER : — TO LIZBTTB 97 LIZETTE TO MINSTREL * 100 MINSTREL TO LIZETTE 101 LIZETTE TO MINSTREL •....* 103 DECLAMATION 106 ♦ T>OTfALD LIVINGSTON— IN MEMORIAM HO • •• vm CONTENTS. * KATE <>1<' SIK .I«)1IX KIIAXKMN 114 ♦ HI'UIMJ'S IIOMDAY 117 • A NKHIT-VIHIT n> I'AUNAMSUH 120 NIIOOTINO AT St'HSKX VALK 124 TIIK IIKIIOKM OK TIIK XILK 12/ ADDKHSH TO TIIK ClIAltl.OTTKTOWN Cl.rn IMl ADDItKSS TO TIIK l». K. INLAND VOI.l'NTKKHS 137 *'|<'I.IKS IN AMllKIt" 141 AIUUCKSS TO IMMXCK ALKIIKD 148 lUKI-K MIIOOTIXe, n. ^Iherf d^bbarb, ^printe d M^lts, at % Comb of ^asjingtoii When H. R. H., the Prince of Wales and suite y isited the United States of America, they were received with such a demonstration of international courtesy as was highly creditable to the SQiitimcutd of our Republican neighuours. Brilliant balls and fetes of the roost magnificent character were given in all the principal cities of the Union, in honour of the august visitors, indicating the strong under- current of correct feeling, which notwithstanding the ascerbities of Bome writers for the ncwsipaper Press, popular among certain clab- 8eB,there still runs in the direction of peace and ^ood win towards the Mother Country. Among other objects of special intcrecjt, the tomb of the distinguished deed at Mount Vernon was visited by Uie Prince and his Retinue who, while they viewed in silence the sacred spot where rested the ashes of one " whom envy dares not blamc^" stood — as the newspapers informed us — unrovered at the tomb of Wash- ington. This affecting incident, softened as it is bv one of those tender touches of nature which " makes all mankind a-kin," gave occasion for the following lines, in the form of an acrostic. A merica ! fair shaU thy history be L ong shall thy proud Eagle spread over the free ! B right records are thine in the annals of fame, E nstamped with the signet of Washington's name! R enown must be thine ; and the portion of all T hat strike off their fetters at Liberty's call ! E nshrined in the hearts of the wise and the good; D istinguished in death by simpHeity's mood ; W orth rests at Mount Vernon ! America weeps, A nd hallows the ground where her Washington sleeps. R eposing immortal ! to millions so dear, [here. D eath hardly can boast to have conquered him *^ 18 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. P eace, wrapt in her mantle^ sits watching, and far, R epels from the spot the proud spirit of war ! I n bass tones of grief sounding mournfully near. N otes solemn fall sadly on Royalty's ear ; C an Albert unmoved hear the dirge of the brave ? E nough ! — he uncovers at Washington's grave. n history's page of the past we have read, F or freedom America battled and bled ; — W ar sounded his blood-sprinkled trumpet around, A nd wild Revolution awoke at the sound ! L ong struggled the brave in the terrible strife, E ach blow was for freedom, for country, for life ! S hall Liberty triumph ? — the sequel we see : A " star-spangled banner " waves over the free ! TJutt banner was "Washington's cynosure bright, T hat showed to Old England America's right, H e lived to maintain it, — ^now nobles agree ; E ntombed, there is not a more noble than he. The noblest must come to ''earth's narrowest room !" Observe but that group at the Patriot's tomb ; 'M id fashion full-blown and festivity gay, B y the glare of the lamp and the light of the day, O n ! on, they have sported ! — a galaxy bright ! F orgetting the past in the present delight, W hile viol and lute have proclaimed their advance, A nd quicken' d their steps in the maze of the dance. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 19 id far, r! Dear. rave? ave. 3UIld, ife, Hfe! \ See ! now they have come to the shrine of the dead; — H ow changed is their manner ! how altered their tread ! I n view of the sepulchre gayety flies,— N o place that for trifling where Washington lies ! G reat Britain concedes the respect which is due, — T he son of her Queen, and her noblemen too, bserving, in silence, mortality's doom, N ow stand all uncovered at Washington's Tomb ! ree! P. 'est %, ice, ice. ®|je f anJ> Commission. The land tenure of Prince Edward Island has long been a fruitful source of discuntent and trouble. Almost all the lands of the Colo- ny had been granted away by the Crown, under certain conditions, in large blocks, as a reward to such persons as had been employed in the naval and militarv service of great Britain. The principal conditions in the original grants were, the settlement of the lands within a limited period, with German Protestants, and the payment by the grantees of an annual Quit Kent to the Crown, which, until the introduction of Responsible Government in 1852, delVayed the CitHl Hat of tiie Colony. It is needless to say that the stipulations in the grants were never tuLflUed by the Proprietors. The Tenantry on the different Townships, on the other hand were led to suppose that the titles of the landlords in consequence of such failure to comply with the conditions of the grants, were good for nothing, and that they, for a similar reason,were not bound to comply with the obliga- tions contained in the leases they had taken from them. Hence arose all those agrarian troubles which have agitated the Colony and retarded its prosperity for more than half a century, The his- tory of Escheat in this Island is, however, too well known to require more than a passing notice in this place. Owin^ partly to the influ- ence of the non-resident Proprietors at the Colonial Office, and partlv to the adverse representations of interested politicians, in which truth was often sacrificed to political expediency— a general court of Escheat would never be granted in this Island altliough such a court had been established m Nova Scotia and in other British Col- 20 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. onicB in North Amcricn. The venerable Apostle and perhaps most honest exponent of that once highly popular doctrine,diecl recently at " Sailor's Ilope," wailing patiently to the last, for the consolauon which never came. During the Cole»' adminietration, a land Purchase Bill was passed by the I^ogislaturc, ami under itn provisions the Worrell and one or two other small estates were purchaRed by the Government. But the meafiurc was denounced by the Opposition of the day as a spe- cies of ClasB Lcgislittion, intended to benefit the few at the expense the many— tlic rcsuli of which would be against the best interests of the Colony. Meanwhile the discontent of the Tenantry on the un* ' purchased Townships became more und more apparent; and all classes of politicians saw that something was really necessary to be done to keep the Island from anarchy, or the Tenantry firom open rebellion against the claims of the Landlords. The celebrated Land Commission— the grand panacea for all the complaints of both Landlords and Tenants— was instituted in 4860. No previous scheme for the redress of grievances— not excepting that of Euclicat itself— ever promised so much and performed so lit- tle. The three Commissioners,— one chosen by the Crown, one by the Proprietors, and one by the Tenantry, invested with Vice-Regal authority,— sat for weeks and sifted all the evidence that could be scraped together fi-om the East Cape to the West Point, preparatory to making their awards which was to be framed after the fashion of the laws of the Modes and Persians, tVom which— as they altered not —there could be no appeal. But, " alas I for human nature, O." The award was made and sent to England for ratification. But after all the labor and fUss, and expense attendant upon the making^ tlie Duke of Newcastle discovered that the three toiae men had exceeded the powers delegated to them, and therefore he could not recom* mend the measure for Her Majesty's approval : the whole affair en- ding in what the Hon. E. Palmer would call a remarkably XAgfizz I The following lines were written in commemoration of that dis> tinguished event. r A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE MUSE. When it was told the Island Bard — By whom, he don't remember — The Governor's proclamation card Was out for next December ; He called the Muses nine by name, But not a jade would hear him. — Not one " blue-stocking " of them came, With friendly aid to cheer him. . THE ISLAND MINSTREL., 21 haps most recently at ^nsoIaUon ^a« passed uid one or tent. But ' as a 8pe> e expense iterests of 9n the un« ; and all sary tobe rom open or all tho d in 4860. Bxcepting led so lit- 1, one by ^ice-Regal could be iparatory tshion of tered not ure, O." But after ^iHf> the xoeeded t; recom* iTair en- biff >!«« I iiat dls- I % He wished to sing his simple song — The truth needs no concealing — With melody that sweeps along, With fine poetic feeling, — To cheer the members, when they meet To make their long orations, And sweetly charm them to forget Their angry disputations. Forsaken thus by all the nine, What could he do, in reason. But 'neath the willow trees repine In sadness for a season ? When lo ! he saw approaching nigh The place where he was standing. An Indian maid, of ebon eye. And stately mien commanding. Her peaked cap was new and smart. To tawdriness inclining. Wrought zigzag round with Indian art. And full of spangles shining ; Her neck with pearly beads was strung. And, as the air was colder Than Summer time, her blanket hung For use upon her shoulder. 22 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. " Me come to see you though," she said, In tones of native gladness ; *' Mfi not the Muse, but Indian maid To cheer away your sadness. Me cannot sing as pale-face muse, The white man's pride and glory, — Not a-quite so well, but, when me choose. Me tell a better story." The Bard gazed on this maiden grand With looks of friendly greeting. Then shook her warmly by the hand. Delighted at the meeting; " WeMl have the story now," said he — And O ! her eyes did glisten : — •' Go on, my red Melpomone, And all the Town shall listen.'* Great Dominkha, who once ruled The Indians in Prince Edward Island, Had been call'd to leave the country — Called across the big sea-water Of the great Atlantic Ocean, To the land of English people. Thence, according to the papers. He was sent to take the rule Of Indian people in Australia, — THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 23 That groat country to the Southward, T'other side of all creation, Where the Indians walk with feet up, And of course their heads invert;ed — As the flies walk o'er the ceilings, Keeping their position by the Laws of latent gravitation ; In that country gold is plenty ; There they pasture sheep and cattle. And get wool and milk and butter. Wealth and comfort, food and fatness — There we hope Dominkha's happy ! Very soon, as his successor The Queen Mother in her wisdom Sent the mighty chief DuNDAss-um To be ruler. He was of the Philabeg and Tartan Indians — Indian man of great importance. That had talked with English Sachems, In the Parliament palaver Of the British people, sartin. Well, Dundassum he comes over In the smoke boat to this Island, — Very tall, but not much bulky. Pleasing looking, very friendly; And as Micmacs had no chief then. I 24 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Only some Administrator, All the Indians glad to see him. That way always in this Island : Chief come first, then all delighted ! All the six-foot Indian brothers Crowd around him, like to kiss him — No one else almost can see him — Nearly shake his other hand off; But not long before he's come here. He can't please them everybody. Then they sulky without reason. Don't care terribly about him ; No more shaking hands so friendly, Sometimes call him ugly language — Whig, or Radical, or Tory, And before his time is ready Wish him somewhere, not to mention. All same this time, when Dundassum Came to rule the Island Indians, He pick'd out for his big talkers Not the men that great Dominkha Had to help him in his Councils. But the opposition Indians — Edward Longwaist Snatcher-hater, Nacut GRAY-quill " Painted Pigeon,*' Magna Charta Haviland-oo, >, I THE ISLAND MINSTREL 25 LoNGwoRTH John, and Jerry Simsum ; Alexander shaky brother, Jemmy Pope^ the son of Joseph, Also Jemmy Yeo, " whatever,^* These were chosen to palaver. With Dundassum, once a fortnight, On the hunting and the fishing, On the blankets for the women. On the warrants for the teachers, On the money for the shooters Who had beat the Nova Scotians With their Enfield Indian rifles, — All the business of the nation ! Then the former talking brothers. Who had shared the loaves and fishes 'Mongst themselves with satisfaction, Felt the sulky spirit rising 'Gainst the Great Dundassum's Council. Very often great disturbance " Happens always in the Island ; Indians not all same one brother. Here nor in the other places ; — Some, more greedy than the others, Put in claims for all the country. Hunting grounds and fishing stations, Landlord Micraacs, — may be better 26 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Not to say too much about 'em Les^; they make more noise than welcome. Then the others. Tenant Indians, Greater far in numbers, but in Pouches good deal smaller peoples ; Well ! suppose these go a-hunting,— Lucky sometimes, but not always, — When poor Indian goes to market. Then the landlord wants his dowries And before he's got his plenty. Hunting Indian's all same nothing ! I Very well, I b'lieve some titles Of the Landlord Indian brothers Pretty good for nothing also, — Not worth'hardly half so much as One full pipe of old mundungus. One wow-whisk's skin in the summer. Or old blanket in the winter. But some others good, I s'pose so, Strong as law itself can bind 'um ; Then, when that's the cases, sartin There's no use for Tenant Indian To resist that inclination, — 'Cause he's sure he'll have to pay 'em : And if he don't like that bargain Of the business, he's free Indian ^^ ae. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. And may make birch-bark canoe, and Paddle to the other country. That seems very fair; well, may be So it is, — but then, some Indians Cannot see that good intention. And they s'pose 'um like that story Of white man and Indian brother That went hunting both together. Killing goose and crow between 'em ; Now, says pale -face, we^U divide 'em ! You'll take crow and I'll take goose, or If it please you, I'll take goose, and Leave the crow for Indian brother. That seems pretty fair intention ; But the white man sartin always Counts it twice the crow for Indian ; — And some Tenant Indians think so. That the big pouch Landlord brothers Reckon goose on both occasions. Well, because there's too much quarrels 'Bout the game and hunting places, — Always falling out the brothers ! Great Victoria Queen of Islands, And the big-pouch Landlord Indians, And the small-pouch Tenant brothers, 27 28 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. All consented in their wisdom Each to choose a cunning thinker. Famous for his large experience In the customs of the people, Then to call him, when he's finished, All same Koyal Queen's Commission. Every man to sign that papers, Giving every one his justice. The Queen Mother, for her wise one, Pick'd out Grayquill from New Brunswick ; Wise man in his generation, Very handsome looking Indian, — All same name, but not same person As the painted pigeon brother. Then the big-pouch Landlord Indians Pick'd out their one in a hurry — Nacut Eitchie from Chebucto, Little man but bigger lawyer, Very fast on foot, I believe so. Nearly up to Moses Perley. After that, the small-pouch brothers Pick'd Joe HowE-whisk, one great runner From the hills of Nova Scotia, Cunning as the very deerfoot. In his country racing fastest Every way sometimes together ! * THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 29 Well, when every thing was ready For the great Magician thinkers. For the wise discretion Council — Council of the good Queen Mother, Council of the big-pouch Indians, Council of the small-pouch brothers — Al! the everybody's Council; Ready all the books and papers, — All the papers to look over. All the paper used for writing. All the pens, and ink, and pencils. Used to mark the paper over ; All the tape to tie the bundles. All the knives to cut the tape with, — Then, when nothing more was wanted. Nothing else that could be thought of. Then, within the big State wigwam Where the Legislative Indians Meet to wrangle in the winter, There met Grayquill of New Brunswick, Naciit Eitchie of Chebucto, Joe Howewisk of Nova Scotia — Met to put their heads together In their arbitration wisdom. And to settle all disputes with Big and small-pouch Indian brothers. Not much easy job that business, 30 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 'Cause the people's all contrary In their every one's opinion ; But the great Magician brothers Went to work with skill and wisdom, — Issued Proclamation papers. Calling Indian deputations From the different hunting regions — From Three Rivers and St. Peter's, Malpeque, Cavendish and Souris, Rustico, Tignish and Crapaud, Cascumpec and Cherry Valley, Georgetown, Gaspereaux and Stanhope, And Bay Fortune, — every place where All the Micmac hunting brothers Built their wigwams for their women, SkinnM their eels or roasted caplin. Cut the ash to make their baskets. Or set fox-bait in the winter, — Every where the proclamation Called them from their avocations. To the great Magicians' Council, To give words of information To the Grayquill and his brothers. Sitting on the chairs of judgment. Full of plenty erudition To hear all the cunning talkers And to try to understand them. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 81 From their seats, the great Magicians Asked the deputations questions, — Asked them all about their places. All about their wives and wigwams, All about their young papouses. All about their dogs for hunting, How much fur they got in Winter — Martins, muskrats, minks and otters, Red and patch, and silver-gray skins ; How much money now was given For the loupcerviers and bears' snouts ; How much wild fowl flying over, Geese, and brant, and ducks, and plover, Gannet, gulls, and cranes and pigeons, Shot they in the months of Summer, Or in Spring or Autumn seasons ; What they got for wooden shovels, . What they got for brooms, and baskets, Wash tubs, firkins, churns, and keelers. Feathers, quills, and Indian buckets ? All these questions, the Magicians, With discriminating wisdom Ask'd the cunning deputations From the regions round about them. That they might come to the knowledge Of all sections of the subject. 32 TlIK ISfiANI) MINSTfa<:f.. And decide upon the business Of the Royal Queen's Commission. May be sometimes white men likewise Have to ask for information On their trade and business matters. All the same as these Magicians Ask'd the deputation brothers ! Then I s'pose heHl ask 'em this way ; How much grow they big potatoes ? How much raise they wheat, and barley, Oats, and hay, and Swedish turnips? — Then they'll know by looking at it, After he has done that asking, How much they can keep for using, How much they can ship for market To the States and other places ; • Then, when they have paid the land tax Levied by the constitution, — Paid for tea, tobacco, sugar, BucMaivitch and whi'skey ivater ; Know, I say, for almost sartin, How much there is left for landlord. Then the deputation brothers Anwered the Magicians' questions. Some were very careful talkers. Conscientious Indian people, THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 33 ' I ^ Woold not cheat the big pouch brothers Any more than other peoples. Then some more don't tell that story. All same way for information — Full of Equivocation language, Try to cheat the great Magicians ! Telling them, with solemn faces. All the grounds most good for nothing, 'Cause the game was not much plenty. And the bears not worth a-shooting, Since the Legislative Indians In their stingy dispositions, Gave no money for their noses ! Big pouch Indians sometimes would not Let the hungry small pouch brothers Cut the ash trees for their baskets ; Fires had run through all the Island, Burning up the big white birches — So that now poor Indian hardly Could get bark to build canoe with. Or to make his wigwam happy. Well, I believe that information Partly true and partly falser, Good deal mixed with contradiction. For the notice of the Grayquill And his other two Magicians. But they listened with attention, ' 34 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. And they wrote it down for payment, Good and bad, and all together, — Put it into paper bundles To take off the Island with them, Very carefully to read it In the Province of New Brunswick, Some time through the coming winter. In their consultation office. ' 1 Thus far the Bard had listenM well. With more than approbation — So pleas' d was he to hea^? her tell The legends of her nation. Then said she, with a pleasing smile, "Me hope you will not sorrow — Me goin' to leave you leetle while. Perhaps me back to-morrow. "Good a-bye to day !" and then she gave A side-long glance, when turning, Which might have charmed an Indian brave. Or set his bosom burning. Alas ! for human nature, ! For changes, and for chances ! — The Bard himself, some years ago. Could not resist such glances. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 35 But scarcely had she left his side, Towards her home to dash on, When, turning round his head, ho spied Another form of fashion. All fluster d was the panting maid With haste, but looking at her With some concern, he kindly said, " Erato J what's the matter ? " How sad you look !" " Alas V* said she,- And then her eyes did scold him ; " Apollo sent me here, to see If all is true that's told him : We heard, upon Parnassus, that ' You and some Indian beauty. For six long hours together sat. Neglectful of your duty . "To him and Msj — now, what a shame !'' — And here Ei'ato pouted ; " Nay,'' quoth the Bard, " I'm not to blame. If there is blame about it. I call'd you, and you did not come ; And now, go tell Apollo, My Indian Muse, that's nearer home, Beats all Parnassus hollow !" 36 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Erato f flirted in a pet, And thus and thus they parted, — No better friends than when they met, But neither broken-hearted. Perhaps the reader can't divine What made that one so zealous — The only one, of all the nine, — The fact is, she was jealous ! Six days and nights had pass'd away, Of weather most unpleasant ; Succesive gales from day to day, And rain almost incessant. The Bard was thus confin'd at home. To reading desultory, — The Indian maiden did not come To finish out her story. He blam'd her not, for — dear, dear ! With all the road inspections, 'Twas nought but quagmire everywhere — Mud ! mud ! in all directions. Gents sported '' India Kubber " suits. To keep them from the dropping; And ladies dear, in ditto boots. Could hardly do their shopping. THK ISLAND MINSTRKI,. .jr- A rival of McAdam's fnme, That does his business choicely, "Jack Frost," unto the rescue came, And dried the roads up nicely. '• Now/' said the Bard, " she'll not delay, And give me cause for sorrow ; She said, a week ago to-day, ' Perhaps me back to-morrow.^ J }} He judged aright, for drawing near Their former place of meeting, He saw her bounding like a deer To hasten on their greeting. Then said she — ceremonials o'er — ''Me see me welcome comer; Me could not leave the camp before, Such shocking ' Indian summer !' .. •'But now," said she, "me tired some "- Her bosom palpitating — " Because me run so fast to come. For fear you tired waiting." Well done ! my nimble- footed fawn ; 'Tis better late than never. Rest for awhile, and then go on — Melpomene forever!"* t{ 9 38 4 ■*t THE ISLAND MINSTREL. After that the Great Magicians - Called the big pouch Indians next time — Called them by the Queen's Commission To stand up at their tribunal, And gave information likewise On the other side of Justice. So without delay they came there. Came, and brought their rent-rolls with themj Cash Books, Blotters, Journals, Ledgers, Counsel, witnesses and waiters — Came and answered all the queries Of the Queen's Commission Judges Spoke a good deal different language From the deputation Indians ; " Didn't turn the small-pouch brothers Out of wigwams in the winters, — Hadn't taken all the blankets. All the furs, and quills, and feathers, From the small-pouch Indian women, — Seldom gave the tribe 'injections,'^ Only every time the brothers ^ Tried to cheat 'em altogether, When he found 'em too much roguish In his cheating disposition, Sent 'em sometimes 'bout his business To make camp in other places." ^ THE ISLAND MINSTREL. :39 e— on 1 them^ rs. " On the other hand, the small-pouch Indians sometimes honest people, Hunted like the very Ishmael, Found the fish and game abundant In the places where they hunted, Paid the big-pouch all his dowries And had good deal left for welcome ; But the others, as he told 'em, Lazy as the very Larry, — Would'nt pay the landlord peoples Twenty years a single copper ; Then, he could'nt help his crossness, 'Cause he's only big-pouch agent. And if he don't send the money. Then Proprietor in England, Get so sulky at the bargain. That he's like to lose his living If he does'nt do that business." Here the Great Magicians whisper'd In the ears of one another. — None could hear their small palaver ; Very thoughtful ! then they nodded, In their wisdom, looking wiser ! Afterwards, one big-pouch lawyer, Named the Counsel Haliburton, Rose to utter all his wisdom. BBS 40 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. There he talked his long oration Of the country of this Island, Of the Indians and their customs, Of the ' Grants original ' and Writings which the big-pouch fathers Had from George the — , I forget him — George the Third, I b'lieve that monarch ; Well, whatever, George the something — Told them of the good indulgence Which the King before had granted To the former Indian fathers . Of the folly of escheators ; Of the Quit Rents, good for nothing, ^ Cause the King, to show his fondness For the big-pouch Landlord brothers Gave remission, all for welcome. Then he's very angry talking, Like his brothers Lawyer people Always very angry, scolding ; Said the small- pouch not too honest In their payment disposition, — Seldom would, without the Sheriff, Give the big-pouch all his dowries. ^ Then the delegation brothers, When they listened to his speaking — When they heard that Haliburton — THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 41 Didn't like his wisdom language, 'Cause he's very special pleader. And makes all one-sided talking. Then another Counsel Thomson Rose and made his bow with pleasure, — Bowed before the Great Magicians, Taboo Grayquill from New Brunswick, Nacut Ritchie from Chebucto, And Howewhisk from Nova Scotia — Bowed with much respect before them. And commenced his benediction. He's as angry as the other. More so fluent too, I'm thinking, Only one thing not quite plain to Simple Indian in his conscience — All the white of Haliburton Black as crow to t'other Thomson : Small-pouch Indian always honest. But too poor for any purpose, — Couldn't pay the hungry big-pouch, 'Cause he's not the luck to prosper ; Sometimes lucky, then he paid him. Quit rents yet should be collected From the big-pouch in this Island : 'C?iuse some small-pouch brothers paid 'em 42 THE ISLAND MINSTREL, Years ago, but the Receivers, Who kept all the money cash box, Never gave them credit writing ; That's the way, said counsel Thomson, Big-pouch always scalp their brothers.- Getting dreadful angry this time. Giving fits to Haliburton. But the big-pouch landlord brothers. When they heard his exclamations. Didn't care a shot about him, 'Cause he's trying all he can to Knock their jolly-boat to pieces ) But the Delegation brothers, When they heard his contemplations. Thought him all same Boanerges — Son of all the roaring thunder. — 'Cause that Thomson he's a clipper At the special talk palaver — Making money like the Moses ! T'or he makes them feel so sorry — Like Lord Lovell, British Indian When he lost his sweetheart lady — Couldn't reconcile his customs. Wiping both his eyes with something , So that Thomson, in his talking, Makes the peoples there before him THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 43 Melt like all the ice to pieces, 'Cause he feels so much aflfection For that clients of his party. That they lose their warrior firmness. Crying like the very onions. All the delegation Indians Now had spoke their testimony, For the information purpose Of the Eoyal Queen's Commission, And the counsel Haliburton, And that other counsel Thomson, Made their big harangues before the Wonderful Magician thinkers. Then it was, and not before then. That the chief interrogator. Taboo Geayquill from New Brunswick, In the presence of the big and Small-pouch wrangling brothers. In the presence of the Tories, In the presence of the Snatchers, In the presence of the ladies. In the presence of the grumblers. In the everybody's presence — Rose before them like a mountain, Rose to close the exhibition. 44 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Then he thanked^ with much politeness. All the people listening to him, — Thank'd the delegation peoples For their contradiction talking, — Thank'd the Counsel Haliburton For his zeal to serve the big-pouch,-— Thank'd the other Counsel Thomson For his very fervent pathos. Which had set the Indian peoples Crying till they couldn't help it, — Thank' d the big-pouch for the promptness With which they had brought their rent-rolls -Aroi the abstracts of their titles, tihc .*i-:ig their good disposition To secure a full discussion Of the general settling business. All these thankees, for himself. And the other two Magicians — Nacut Eitchie, called the fleet-foot. And Joe Howewhisk railroad runner ! After that, the Grayquill told them Not to quarrel with the neighbours ; All to exercise good patience While they waited for the judgment. — Big-pouch not to push his brother. If he paid him one year's dowry ; THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 45 Small-pouch better pay him that much^ Just to keep his stomach quiet, — 'Cause they could not make their final Jurisdiction in the matter, Till they left the Island Indians — Till they left them, and went over To New Brunswick, and with caution Read the files of paper bundles. Read three hundred long petitions. Read them all with great attention. Read them at a place called Rothsay, Read them with deliberation. Very, very often over. Read them in the morning, fasting. After punch and oyster suppers — And, to make the story shorter. Read them till they understood them ! Then the Great Magician thinkers. Gathered all their slips of writing — Gathered all their sheets of papers. All the Delegation's sayings. All the big-pouch landlords' doings. Gathered them with care together. Into packages and bundles — Put the bundles into boxes. Nailed the boxes fast with spike nails. 46 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. And employed the Island truckmen To convey them to the smoke-boat — Which, to carry mails, and freight, and Passengers; did semi-weekly Runbetween this place and Pictou. PAKT II. THE BARD S OWN VERSION. The Bard, attentive, did not fail To trace, in her romantic tale. Some likeness, in her notions queer. To grave events transpiring here. Still there are troubles in this Isle About the ownership of soil, — The '' tenure '' which so long has been The cause of such vindictive spleen. Seems, after all the labor spent. About as far from settlement As when Escheat, that project dear (Excuse the pun) was rampant here Or, as the legislators say. The ** standing order" of the day. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 47 Measures on measures have been brought — " Escheat/' " Land Purchase," and what not, To rigid Legislative test. To try and set the case at rest. But these a hundred times have failed. Amid the conflicts which prevailed, 'Mongst interested men who would Their deep, designing schemes obtrude (Which often compassed nothing more Than yearnings after place and power) Upon the simple Tenantry, — Who thought them, what they ought to he, But found that — as the sequel shows — They only led them by the nose. Say not the poet's lays are wrong. Or false the burden of his song ; For all correct observers know The case to be precisely so. Tories — so called — have played Escheat, As cricketers, who strive to beat Their rivals in the stirring game ; While Liberals called out " for shame." Again, upon the other hand. The watchful — so called — Liberal band Have, when it suited them to be Escheators by their policy. As freely played the "fancy game" 48 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. As those erewhile they sought to blame ; But then — it will not be denied — The Tories were on t'other side. While matters were progressing so, 'Twas hard for honest men to know Their friends from foes, for both sides would- This fact at least was understood — Go forth, although they knew tVas vain, And set the wickets up again. At length, the question to decide. Another specious scheme was tried. To stop Escheat's rebounding ball And equal justice deal to all, — The Land Commission was to be The end of Island anarchy ! The public mind, depressed so long. Now raised in expectation strong ; Great were the hopes indulged by some Of good, when that Award should come ; And it was reasonable they Should look for justice and fair play. The Queen, God bless her Majesty, Was to the contract one of three, — The Queen of vast dominions fair. From whom we claim a mother's care : THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 49 Whose realms, extended wide, the sun Ne'er " throws his setting beams upon " — The Queen of English liberty, And English millions boasted free ; Queen of that land, where 'tis received By thousands, and as truth believed. That peasants poor and princes be, In law, upon equality — Where justice flows in honor's course. Her Majesty the living source. The large Proprietors of soil. Who hold, by grants. Prince Edward Isle, Had to the compact put the pen. With all the show of honest men ; And bound themselves on honor's card To acquiesce in the Award. So far — by " compass and by square " — Appearances at least were fair ; And who could for a moment think. With this parade of pen and ink. And paper marked in black and white. That all was not securely tight ? Our Legislators next agreed In this behalf to take the lead. And in good faith, the " Agent " be Of all the Island Tenantry, — 60 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Nay, more, at Newcastle's request (To set the whole affair at rest). They passed a stringent local law. Which pledged them never to withdrf Their bona fide writings done, While grass shall grow or water run, — And then, by public providence To pay one-third of the expense Of the exalted persons three That ruled that Court of Equity. The three Commissioners, by name, Were men of high Colonial fame ; By all alike supposed to be True photographs of probity, — While Howe especially was thought To be the perfect person sought — Of good report, as rumours ran. His Country's boast — the people's man ! The judgment sat by the consent O^most concerned, and time was spent In labor hard and search profound. An ocean's troubled depths to sound — Where all opposing currents met And none had found the bottom yet ; From all the country far and wide — As rolls the flooding, flowing tide THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 51 Above its ordinary bounds, In wild excess, to higher grounds, When Equinotical gales take place. And Luna shows her fullest face — So floods of information rolled. Voluminous and uncontrolled. Set into motion by the fame Of that Commission's Royal name. And there they sat ! and sat ! and sat ! And looked at this, and talk'd of that ; Now thinking how tho crown to please ; Then how tho landlords to appease ; And still the nicest point would be To please, with them, the tenantry — Whose claims, with adverse influence fraught. Involved a labyrinth of thought. Which rival 'd, in its mystery, The web of fair penelope. When Michaelmas was drawing near. The Court adjourned, with all their gear. To meet and end the ancient row. When public duties would allow. At Rothsay, on the other side. With cooler judgment to decide ; Meanwhile their Honors bade adieu. 52 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. I! With kind regards, to those they knew. Unstrung the tension of the bow. And left affairs in statu quo. That was a year to think upon : The Prince had come — the Prince had gone ; And loyal thousands glad had seen The eldest son of England's Queen In Charlottetown ! well, that was rare; Astonished much the natives were. Who oft had prayed for Eoyalty, But hardly hoped its face to see : Henceforth each loyal father might His staring little ones delight. And tell the dear domestic hive That he had seen a Prince alive I Then the Commission, after that, In Charlottetown had met and sat, — Which kept the country on their feet. Excitement up to fever heat. But now the summer birds had flown — Prince ! Peer ! Commission ! all had gone ; And Islanders were left, I ween. To think on what their eyes had seen. Then speculations wild were rife. And 'politicians wrote for life, — I THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 53 If not, at least it may be said That — like the Bard — they wrote for bread. Each party had their fancy view Of what that Court abroad would do. Some placed the utmost confidence In their integrity and sense, And thought, indeed, the Court would steer Through all their difficulties clear ; But others took a different view. And paper controversy grew, And multiplied, and spread around, And covered all debating ground. Opposing one another's views, They spread their fancies with the neius, And interchangeably woidd write That right ivas wrongs and black was white. At length, when months had passed away, One hour of some uncertain day — Unlooked for as a shower of hail When summer winds around prevail — One of the Queen's Commission came (Unheralded, this time, by fame) To Charlottetown, and made his bow, — That personage was Joseph Howe ! He brought the news, our ears to bless. About the Eothsay Court's success. At the late groaning which took place— 54 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Admitted, an uncommon case ! At Rothsay, fears were entertained. But nothing of the sort remained, — For ere he left the other shore, Th' accouchment all was safely o'er; The young " Award '' had seen the light. And doctors said that "all was right," Altho' it was — they'd not forget — " Too young to leave its mammy yet '/' But he — and here his Honor laughed Had got its likeness photographed Upon his brain; and so could tell Its general features, just as well As if the thing that made such noise Were present there before their eyes. - I I I ! Then in a voice distinctly clear — The Bard must drop his figures here — He told them truly, by the word Of mouth, about the Court's award ; But felt surprised, and wondered sore It had not reached the Isle before ! Explained its great provisions there. On different parties how they'd bear ; Of this the reason, that the cause, Down to the " Arbitration Clause." The Tenants, taken by surprise. I ; THE ISLAND MINSTREL. bo Made — some of them — a naughty noise ; Declared, upon a hasty view, Such measures here would never do — Instead of healing trouble's sore. They made things worse than e'er before ; While others shook their heads, and thought That Howe had peached before he ought — And this time spoiFd both horn and spoon. By '^ letting out the cat " too soon. At last th' Award, for praise or blame. Thro' the official channel came ; And angry controversy strong. From different views of right and wrong. Again took place-^a paper strife — "War to the'' Editorial '^ knife," For politicians, honest men, " Fought all their battles o'er again.'' While those who read the diatribes Of some of these veracious scribes,. And on their matter ponder' d most. Were deepest in confusion lost. But whether the " Award," when view'd Impartially, was bad or good — On which, by general consent, Much time was lost and money spent. i 66 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. It matters not — for lo ! the Duke Of Newcastle some umbrage took At the Award, — the trouble was About the " Arbitration '' clause ; With that " objection " in the way, '' Insuperable'' he must say. He never could the Queen advise To sanction such a sacrifice Upon the part of some he knew — His friends, perhaps (?) no matter who ! Here drop the pen, and rest awhile — For some may frown, and some may smile, To read the Bardie's simple strain ; But " apples will mature again " — The thick'ning plot unfolds apace. And changes every day take place. The Legislative Council's dead As a door-nail, knocked on the head ; The Session is already past, — And who the future may forecast ? But when again the Members meet, And all arrangements are complete For public business, then the Bard Will watch the fate of the Award, And, to instruct his countrymen. May woo the Indian muse again. I ; THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 0/ fines on tl;!e kat| of |ames Stttoart. On the morning of the 22nd of June, 1861, a company of young men arose early, and proceeded outside of the suburbs of the Town to Brighton, or Robinson's Shore, for the purpose of rifle practice, on the beach. They had finished firing at the f^arget, taken it down, and, gathering in a group, started on their return to Town. As the unfortunate young man, whose melancholy fate occasioned the fol- lowing lines was proceeding to hide the target in a bush over a fence, one ot the rifles, which had been playfully loaded by one of the par- ty, accidentally went ofl—fatally woundmg poor c*ewart, by sev- enng the large artery of his right leg. Some of his companions en- deavouredj in vain, to stop the profuse bleeding by binding their handkerchiefs around the limb, while others hastened to the City for a doctor. But before assistance could be brought, depletion had so far done its work that surgical skill could be of little or no avail. Doctor Jenkins supposes that if skill had been properly applied, his life might have been saved, by the immediate amputation ot the limb. As it was, however, nothing further could be done than to remove him to the house of his uncle in Kent Street, in whose employ he bad been, where he died a little after noon of the same day, deeply re- gretted by all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. Wreathe a chaplet for the Muse, Wet with morning's early dews. Formed of sorrow's emblems true. Cypress sad and mournful yew. Bind it round her temples fair. While she sings her tragic air. Driving night's dark shades away, Phoebus bright brought on the day ; Springing, free from sleep and care. Youth inhal'd the morning air ; Viewed with joy the glorious Sun, Rising fresh his race to run. 58 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Tripping Eghtly, hand in hand. See a jocund, lively band ; Fond as brothers, one and all. Starting free at pleasure's call — Hear them singing, as they bound. Merry as the birds around. a Ah ! how little, do they know. As, unthinkingly they go. That — to sunder friendship's tie- — Death — with cruel purpose — nigh As a bloodhound scenting keen Dogs their footsteps o'er the green. Dogs them all the merry way. Watching, hungry for his prey. Sees them with a steady hand Fix their target on the sand ; And, although they see him not Counts he every rifle shot. Eighteen balls well aim'd are sent. Eighteen balls — and all are spent — Now the morning's sport is o'er. Now they group to leave the shore ; " Hide the targety* — not so fast — Death must have his turn at last. THB ISLAND MINSTREL. 59 And the cruel archer sly — Mischief in his hollow eye, Levels with unerring aim, As a hunter at his game. Hark ! three shrieks appalling ! hark ! Eifles ! death has struck his mark. Struck, and stretched him on the ground, Streams his life blood from the wound. Friendship's hand may strive in vain To prevent the fatal drain, Nought may stanch it — sad to tell — Death has done his work too well ! Wreathe a chaplet for the Muse Wet with morning's weeping dews. Formed of sorrow's emblems true, Cypress sad and mournful yew, She shall wear it round her head. While she mourns the early dead. Sadly mourns ! Ah ! short his stay ! Now a lump of whiten' d clay. Who, at early morning's dawn. Tripped it lightly o'er the lawn With his youthful schoolmates three, Full, like them, of fun and glee. ¥ ' 60 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Yes ! the Muse shall drop a tear Over that untimely bier, "Weep to think, that early worth Should be torn so soon from earth ! Tears of sorrow sure may fall, James was well belov'd by all. Nothing can our life ensure — Even youth is not secure. Purblind mortals ! who can say What may happen in a day Briefly passing? — grief or joy? Who shall live or who shall die ? " Be ye also ready" plain Sounds upon our ears again. Let the living warning take. Death is always in our wake ; And his arrow next may be, Eeader, aim'd at you or me. s \ THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 61 S \ Sljooting ^draorbinara, AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE GROUNDS, AUGUST, 1861, Rifle Shooting has of late years grown largely Into public favour among all classes of Her Majesty's subjects. In tho mother country the peer and the peasant may be said to meet almost upon equal ground at Wimbledon to contend for the prizes wJiich are there of* fered annually tor competition. Indeed so popular has the practice become that the ladies of the land have so far shared in the general feeling, as to discharge tho first shot of the Enfield on some very interesting shooting occasions. But what may be termed a military mania has not been confined among the Volunteers of Great Britain. It has 8i)read like wild-flre over all the British North American Colo- nies, and in none of them has the passion for shooting manifested itself with more enthusiasm than in our own lovely little Island. 1 ;.e practice may be said to have been formally instituted here in 1861. Ilis Excellency the Lieut. Governor, in that year, §ave a large silver cup, valued at £12, as the first prize for competition. Lady Dundas also gave a purse, valued at £7 10s., as the second. Various others of less value were also given by the lovers of that sort of amusement, and the greatest excitement as to the results everywhere prevailed among the friends of the interested parties. The shooting commenced on the 12th of August, and was continued until Wednes- day the Itth. The weather during the first two days was everything that could be wished, save only a little too windy for rifle practice — which was directed from throe ranges, viz : 200, 300, and 600 yards. Thousands assembled during the three days, among whom might be Been"priest and presbyter," all classes of all creeds, watching, with intense jiinterest, the elevation of those little flags near the target, which signalled a " bull's-eye," a '* centre," an " outer," or a " miss," as the case might be. The third day the weather was more windy, and in the evening, cloudy with a little rain. The scoring was not high on that occasion, 18 being the highest number of points made by any of the competitors. Daniel McKinnon and Samuel McRae were ties at 18, and on shooting oflf there was some slight misunderstan- ding, which caused the process to be repeated. The Umpires— G. W, DeBlois and Francis Longworth, Esquires, awarded the cup to Mr. Daniel McKinnon, then of Kent Street, Charlottetown. The lines which follow are supposed to be written by an Irishman who was present at the sport. [singin* 'Tis myself would be stringin' my harp and be 'Till the sky 'ud be ringin,' wid the swate dulcet sound ; m 62 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Of the great demonstration^ that brought all the nation, In a big congregation, to Government ground. 'Twas as one may say, sir, the grandest display sir, Since Anthony Goesar, the Gin'ral of Rome, Reviewed all his lagions, the Turks and Norwagians From the different ragions abroad and at home. , :i There was seen on the green grass the Governor DUNDAS ; Who threw open the pass of his premises grand ; An' his lady was there, condescendin' and fair. On her elegant chair, wid her spy-glass in hand ; There was freedom of entry, and never a sentry To let in the rich and to kape out the poor — But who came the way, sir, was as welcome as ''May," sir; And had leave to pass on by the Governor's door i i The gentry to gaze on, an' I'll tell you the rason, Though whate was in season, they sint for the boys To see the sharpshooters, as bould aa freebooters, Well drill'd by their tutors, contind for the prize. The tall grass was gone from the beautiful lawn, An' the Rifles all drawn up by fives in a squa/re — > THE ISLAND MINSTREL. fin Combinin* wid leisure both business and pleasure, While shootin' for treasure in the swate open air. And that was the firin', the crack shots aspirin' Wid patience untirin' to send in fair hits ; While the gentry were wearin* their eyes out in starin', To look at them tearin' the target to bits ; Och ! the scene was excitin — 'all classes unitin', Together delightin' to look at the fun ; While Colonels and Majors, ould veteran stagers, Were betting their wagers on the sports of the gun. But some made bad shootin' the turnips uprootin', For want of computin' the distance before — While the tops went a' flyin' the bullets wint shyin' At an angle of forty degrees to the shore. Some blunderin' crature in purely good nature Nearly kilt Colonel Peter by glancin' a ball — An' the truth may be spoken, the Army 'ud be broken By the turn of that token if he were to fall. Och ! wisha bedad then, but the Governor was mad then At the short-sighted lad then, and tould him to run; 64 THB ISLAND MINSTREL. i! Wid the best of advice, to be wary and nice Wid a wa/pon so choice as a Rifleman's gun ; An* not to return till his duty he'd learn, Wid his greatest concern an' the whole of his might An' before lettin' fly in the future to try Just to get the hulVs eye in a range with the sight ! But 'twas extra'fine fun, sir, the sports of the gun, sir ; Bright visions when done, sir! On Government park. Three days they were poppin', widout ever stoppin'. The turnip tops cropping or hittin* the marJc ! And the Volunteer Band, at the word of command Our hearts all trepann'd wid music's delight — For to banish dull care, wid the liveliest air. All the trumpeters blew there from morning till night. Thin the points were made up for the bright sil- ver cup That Victoria might sup out of, if she were dry ; An two ScHOTCHMEN woro found in thei- i the ground — Arrah, Hickey ! but black was the n oe oi ir i j e. Two Scotchmen were seen, that had b'»th made eighteen — The one was McKinnon, the other McRae : THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 65 So the boys were outdone in the use of the gun — Och ! bad luck to the fun when the Scotch won the day I Then to finish the test and to see which was best, They two wid the rest should shoot off at the last ; When McKinnon so sly, clapt the gun to his eye. An' puird an' let fly, but the bullet went past ; Then McRae had his shot and 'twill not be forgot That he hit the black spot wid the bullet he sped : So if they should score both for two centres more. Of course, as before, Sam. McRao was ahead. But McKinnon would say, that it wasn't fair play. An' that this was the way ! Captain Beer wid a run. Comes up an' says, Dan ! — never flash in the pan Are ye certain my man there's a ball in the gun ? So wid jokin' and spakin'- — all discipline breakin', The gun wint a shakin, an' so it was plain He had lost his first ball, so they'd have to recall Every crack of them all — aud shoot over again. Captain Beer then consented, (he should be prevented) An' we all were tormented, to stand on the ground. Amid doubt an' confusion, an' double delusion. To hear once again the six rifles resound — 60 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. At the end of the firm', as some were desirin*, The face of the tables was turned upside down ; And myself doesn't know, if by fair play 'twas so. But they managed to keep the big goblet in Town. U %)s)5Xtss to prince Ciiiuarb |slanb. Prince Edward Isle ! fit subject for the lays Of sweeter minstrel ; how shall I aspire — As best I may — to celebrate thy praise ; Whose praise might well employ the noblest lyre. Land of my birth ! I feel the patriot's glow ; To thee I'm bound by nature's tender ties ; To thee I feel my warmest wish must flow, 'Till power to wish with human frailty dies ; For nearest to my thought, while thought remains. Must be thy flowing streams, thy woods and fertile plains. Now pleasing spring revisiteth thy shore. Advancing gracefully with gentle tread ; Scattering, with lib'ral hand, her flow'ry store. Where Boreas late in blustering storms had spread so, wn. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 07 I re. IS. lie His chilling mantle, frost, and ice, and snow j A cold contexture, wov'n in Winter's loom. When shortening days saw Phoebus ranging low Along the southern sky, overspread with gloom, Casting, by fits, a bright but powerless ray — Powerless to stir the muse or give the streamlets play. But now the sun emits a warmer beam. Thy rills, unbound, run murmuring to the sea ; Nature awakes as from a slumbering dream. And hears the sounds of vocal melody. Which charm the ear from ev'ry bush and grove. Proceeding in a soft and varied strain ; As the blithe redbreast tunes his lay of love. Or blackbird, " answering to her mate again," Pours, from her mellow throat, a note so clear. That half the warbling choir might listening stop to hear. As thus the enlivening song pervades the air. And flowers expanding deck the sunny brae ; Drowning in harmony dull cank'ring care. And charming ev'ry withering thought away — Th' unskilful muse would sing her simple song. Not uninspir'd, since evVy healthful breeze (The breath of Spring) that gently sweeps along The ripphng river, or that stirs the trees. 68 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. i-i ^f! Now budding fresh, awakes the numbers tame, And fans the power of song into a stronger flame. Pleased on thy lovely scenes I turn my eyes : The rolling river's winding course I view. And see the beauteous cheerful azure skies Reflected on its breast, a deeper blue ; Along its banks some clusters evergreen Of spruce and fir stand tap'ring in the air. The graceful remnants of the sylvan scene ; When reigning forests held dominion there. Isle of the sea ! how chang'd the prospect now. How soon before thy sons the stately forests bow ! Now fertile fields the forest's place supply — Delightful landscapes, when Aurora's beam Spreads crimson blushes on the Orient sky. And cheers the ploughman whistling to his team. And beautiful, at noon, when the bright sun Turns the declining scale to measure day ; But lovelier, when, at eve, his journey run, He sinks in beds of downy gold away. Kindly withdraws his beams, in rosy smiles. To give thy ploughmen rest and brighten other Isles. Singing thy praises, shall the muse forget The tributary Islands round the shores; THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 69 By nature placed, as sentinels of State, To beautify thy coast or guard thy stores. Or haply formerly, fair Isle ! of thee A part integral, all these Islets stood. Till, by the rude convulsive energy Of sund'ring earthquake, or resistless flood. They lost thy warm embrace, their birthright claims But gained enchantment's grace and independent names. First of the throng, and pride of Richmond Bay, Romantic Lennox ! let me turn to thee : Around thy beach how Fancy loves to stray. And trace the beauty of the scenery ! Home of the exiFd Micmac's dwindled race, Still in thy shades their rinded camps they spread, And here, perforce restricted in the chase. They cultivate the soil for daily bread. Here also stands, in pleasing prospect fair. And sheds a hallowed grace, the Indian's house ot prayer. St. Peter's, Governor's, Pammure, Boughten all — Fair gems, that to thy southern coast belong, Shall promptly answer to the Muse's call, [song. And spread fresh beauties henceforth known to 70 THB ISLAND MINSTREL. Like precious gems, embowrd in the mine. (UnpoUish'd brilliants worthy of renown) These spots enchanting, destin'd yet to shine As jewels in a reigning monarch's crown, Unnotic'd long enough, have sweetly bloom' d. Without one " tuneful line," to heartless silence doom'd. Prince Edward ! fair and fertile Island home ! May ne'er thy sons, at wild ambition's call. Be tempted from thy happy shores to roam. To increase at Oregon their fortune small ! Vain hope ! if sweet contentment is not found Where health enthron'd and plenty cheer our hearts. Not Illinois, nor famed Australia's ground. Can yield that blessing which the mind imparts. Thither let discontented wanderers go, Till, by experience taught, this doubted truth they know. My native lile ! fit subject for the lays Of sweeter minstrel, still the prompting power, Which led me jimply to attempt thy praise Shall sweetly prompt me to my latest hour : For, bound to thee by nature's tender ties. To thee I feel my warmest wish must flow — \ THB ISLAND MINSTREL. 71 Thy verdant fields, thy placid summer skies, Thy loaded Autumns, and thy Winter s snow — All nearest to my thought, if reason reigns. Must ever prompt the song, while love of song remains. ^outljtrn Slakrj anb ^meritJin disunion. During the late civil war in America, the U. S. Ship '* Ethan Allan" and Schooner •' George Mangham," of the North Squadron, entered our harbor to undergo some repairs. The writer, in company with Bome friends, went first on board the " Ethan Allan," and were re* ceived with every mark of respectful courtesy. Having been shown over and through the Ship by the Captain and chief OflBcers, we were invited to dine with them in the principal cabin. We accordingly sat down to an excellent dinner, which did credit to the skill of Am- erican cookerv. As the time, limited b^ International Law for her stay expired that evening, we were invited to stop until the ship got under weigh. We did so, and preceded to the Harbor's Mouth, where we took leave of our Kepublican friends, impressed with a deep sense of their kindness and hospitality. On our return to Town we were received and treated with similar kindness on board the " Ueorge Mangham," which also sailed the next morning for George- town, in King's County- The following epistle was written from that port soon after, acknowledging the receipt of two pieces of poetry, sent by promise to the Officer who wrote the letter,— the one enti- tled "Southern Slavery and American Disunion," and the other, " Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, at the Tomb of Washington." U. S. Schr. George Mangham, Georgetown, November 4, 1883. Mr. Le ?age : Dear Sir; I take great pleasure in acknowledging the receipt of your poems • and cannot express my thanks sufficiently in this note. Suffice it to say, that I shall always treasure them as a memento of your kind* 72 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. nesB to me— a kindneas doubly enhanced by our limited acquain- tance, and my being an utter stranger to your beautit^il Island. I assure you it is duly appreciated— and here let me say — not only for myself, but for all of our Officers, that you were not alone in your kindness— we have met it wherever we touched on Prince Edward Island. At i>resent I cannot reciprocate, but hope it may at some time be in my power. We are now ordered to Charleston, S. C, direct — having ref'eived our orders on our arrival here, probably from that hot-bed ot treason (or as near to it as we can get). I may be able to write you something interesting, as we expect to be in at "the death.'' Your poems were duly read and praised. The one entitled—" The Prince of Wales at the Tomb of Washington"— is very truthful, some of us having been there at the time, and all recognize its accuracy. Hoping to again have the honor of hearing from you, I remain, truly yours JAS. J. MULLIN. U.S.N. Our address will be : — U. S. Schr. George Mangham, South Atlantic Blockading Squadron off Charleston, S. C. America ! where is the roll of thy fame, " E Plm'ibus Unum !'* the pride of thy name ? The stars and the stripes as they once were unfurl'd In the North and the South to the gaze of the world? I No longer united ! ah, luckless thy star ! O'er the sunshine of peace roll the shadows of war ; And the North and the South meet together in strife. While resounds the fierce battle-cry — " war to the knife/' 'Tis not as of old, when thy brave children stood In the ranks of the bold, on the land and the flood ; And, shoulder to shoulder, established their claim, To stern Independence, to honor and fame. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 78 Tis not as when Washington, skilPd to command, In defence of his country, drew nobly his brand ; And fought for that freedom so dear to* the brave, The best boon of Heaven — withheld from the slave ! *Tis not as when union lent strength to the chain That held thee from Florida northward to maine In the closest of bonds, linking State unto State : While nations admiring, acknowledged thee Great. From the bright sunny South, revolution once more Sends its thunders around with a terrible roar — Lets loose from their leashes the war-dogs again. To rend, if they can, the Republic in twain. To rend the Republic ! yea, truth must be told — To barter humanity's victims for gold ! To rivet the bonds that enfetter the slave, And, boasting of freedom, dig Liberty's grave ! To extend on the earth that detested domain. Where the negro must labour, though smarting with pain 'Neath the lash of the planter, — an object of .s(^orn, A servant of servants — upitied, forlorn. Rise, men of the North, as in Lexington's day, And set your bold legions in battle array ; 74 THE ISLAND MINSTEEL. m i Before you the hosts of oppression shall quail, For liberty's strong and will surely prevail. Wipe the foulest of stains from America's crest, Let the ebon-hued African's wrongs be redress'd, Nor suffer him longer in bonds to endure The "proud man's contumely" — the scourge of the poor. Rise, men of the North, and contend in the fight. For your grand Constitution, and national right ; When forc'd to the combat necessity's law Can stain without guilt every blade that ye draw. Contend for the liberty virtue inspires ; For the Union intact as bequeath' d by your sires ; For the " Star Spangled Banner" that, streaming on high — Led your forefathers onward to conquer or die. Contend with that energy virtue can give — For the homes where in freedom your families live; For your Capitol threaten' d by tyrants with fire. And stamp the Palmetto, disgrac'd, thro' the mire ! Meet the Southern agressors with " war to the knife ;" If dreadful the struggle, not doubtful the strife ; ir: THB ISLAND MINSTREL. 76 I No fear for the issue, for conquer ye must — He conquers who dies in the cause of the just. fines Suggested by the untimely death op Messes. Webb and Woekman, who were drowned AT RusTico Island, May 29, 1861. How transient are all things beneath ! The business, the bustle, and strife. Which make us forgetful of danger and death. That lurk in each lane of our life. Our life is itself as a dream — A flower that blooms — to decay. An air bubble ! blown on mortality's stream. To pass with the current away. How seldom we think, when we greet Our friends, after absence, once more. That, parting asunder, we never may meet. Till we meet on eternity's shore. ss 76 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. t< Be ready," the Saviour from heaven Hath said to the children of men : We read the monition so faithfully given, But strangely forget it again. Till solemnly, awfully, dread ! Some tidings will strike on the ear. Like thunder, which suddenly bursting overhead. Fills the soul for a moment with fear — So, startling security's dream, The sorrowful tidings went round. That Webb, whom we held in the highest esteem. And Workman, of 8tuhen, were drown' d. " In a moment ! and no one could save •/' We heard the report as it flew — [wave," "In sight of their friends, overwhelmed in the We could scarcely believe it was true. — But yesterday, healthy and strong. And hopeful, and actively bold. On the tide of existence they glided along, To-day, they are lifeless a/nd cold. Ah ! what is our life at the best ! A vapour that soon disappears ! A brief passing season of struggle — not rest. Of sorrow, and sighing, and tears ; THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 77 Here death has unlimited scope, Oft waking up pity's refrain ; But while we thus grieve, let us sorrow in hope^ That our loss, to the lost ones, is gain. f inti5 spoken at % Bomt of % CJar lottetofon ^jebating CInb, December 31, 1861. While old Father Time has pursued his career Almost to the date of another " new year," We meet with our brethren, to mark, as they run. The last shifting sands of the year Sixty-one ; Disposed, while its few fleeting moments shall last. Ere we welcome the new, to commune with the past. And reviewing the past, 'twould be base to repine, For our harvest was rich, and the weather was fine; No " army worm" ravaged the fruits of the soil. Nor blasting nor mildew was suffered to spoil The husbandman's hopes, till he gamer'd once more For himself and his cattle a plentiful store. 78 TH£ ISLAND MINSTREL. Though with rumours of war, and with tidings of strife. As it came to our shore, every mail has been rife; Though the wheels of our trade have been clogged 'n their course. And commerce has languished, — all might have been worse ; Only think of our neighbours, engaged as they are. In the clashing of discord and horrors of war. Yes I with feelings of joy must the past be reviewed : Let us thank the all-bountiful Giver op Good — That, free from the great tribulations of war. Which as men and as Christians we deeply deplore. Our gem of an Isle, has been suffer d to rest. Like an emblem of love on tranquillity's breast. We may also review what we cannot forget, — The evenings our Club in full conclave has met. For friendly discussion, in brotherly love, To sharpen our wits and our subjects to prove ; In the spirit of candor presenting our views Upon difficult questions and matters abstruse. Let the Halifax PresSj in derision appear. And presume, if it will, at our judgments to sneer > We can tell Mr. Typo, whose lip may be curled, THE ISLAND MINSTQEL. 79 That wo aim to mako wiser the " civilized world;*' And wo think that the world with ourselves will agree That a civilized Press always civil should be. But we aim, more especially aim, to promote The good of our Island when giving our vote ; And without any boasting, it now may bo said. We often have hit the nail 7'ight 07i the head : We appeal to the Public with feelings of pride ; They know what weVe done ! let the public decide. If the Government snoozed when they should be awake/ Supinely neglecting their measures to take ; In the Club it was mooted — the work was begun, The action was prompt and the business was done ; Town meetings were call'd, and the leading men there Acknowledged our Club was a splendid affair. Long, long may it prosper, and widely diffuse Among its kind patrons the latest of news ; And oh ! in the future the news may we find Breathing more of the fragrance of love on mankind; Like the green olive leaf in the bill of the dove — Speaking only security ! liberty ! love ! 80 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. I i Yes ! with gi*atitude deep shall the year be reviewed, And again will we thank the Great Giver op Good, That^ free frcm the great tribulations of war, Which as men and as Christians we deeply deplore. Our beautiful Isle has been suffered to rest, Like the emblem of peace on tranquillity's breast. It ^atrkli's §^. r'i St. Patrick's Day has ever been regarded by the sons of Erin with feelings of peculiar interest. The patriotic Irishman, wheresoever his lot may he cast, will alwavs honour the return of the day, known as the anniversary of Ireland's patron Saint. Years ago, before the drinking cnstomd of this country had been checked by the lealous labours of Father Matthew— the formation of Temperance Societies, or the more recent organization of the Suns of Temperance — the nat- ional spirit, elevated unduly by the potency of bad whiskey, would often manifest itself in the use of the shillalah, and the best of friends would knock each otherdown, asif lor the want of more congenial em- ployment. Of late years, however, auch excesses have been less fre- «iuent, and St. Patrick's Day, though still honoured by the general aopearance of the shamrock, passes off as quietly as that of any other saint in the Calendar. Occuring, as it does, so near the vernal equi- nox, we need not wonder that heavy storms should sometimes happen at that season which almost put a stop to the outward demoiistrations which, under more favorable circunistances, mark the observance of the f'ay. One of the most severe snow-storms that ever visited this Isfand, took place on the 17th of March, in which several persons rriished through ihe inclemency of the weather. On the eve of St. i'atrick'8,1862, anjther violent storm swept over the Island, olocking up the high ways into the country and the streets of the City, so that those persons who were wont in the " wee short hour ayont the twal" to welcome the anniversary, by playing through our streets " St. Pat- rick's Day in the Morning,'' were hindered by the fury of the elements frcm indulging in that harmless demonsti'ation of national feeling. VJnder are some vcYBes—svpnosed to be written after the manner of Alexander Selkirk— by an Irishman of the old school, who had been THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 81 f>revented by the storm from honouring the day after the customary ashlon. ADDRESSED TO IRISHMEN '' AT HOME AND ABROAD." Let the Harp be unsirnng V tis meself doe^.^^ i; care. Though the chords were all mute in the voice of • r'espair, Giving out not a single vibration of sound, "While this storm-woven mantle spreads over the ground ! On the eve of St. Patrick, above and below And around us bedad ! there was nothing but snow, Blocking up every street, till the hoys couldn^t play Here and there in the night tmie " St. Patrick's '* own '' day ! " Och ! heart of St. Patrick ! — self exiFd from home — Why ! why ! to this racfion of storms did I come ? Where acicshla ! the wildest of elements rise, To blind us with snow banks and block up our eyes ! 'Tis myself that remembers the days T have seen. When the whiskey was plenty aad skamrock^ were green ! I mtssm i S! 1^ 82 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. When the hoys in the Iwight of respect for the day, Raised a row in a minit *" the miscJuwf to pay ! ^' Wislia ! thim were the days of an Irishman's joy. When, " blue mouldy for want of a bathi/' each boy Could make his sMlIalah go curlin' like smoke. To knock down his friend in the way of a joke I 'Twas then the bright sun in a thrill o' delight, Presidin' in splendour, lookMdown on the fight; But now, och ! bad luck to the fight or the fun ! Not a blow has been struch, when the clock has strucJv one 1 Here, flound'ring, the exile, made blind by the blast. Since he can't see before, looks behind on the past : And his bright and clear eye without lustre must weep, Compell'd, without yj^/t/m<7, St. Patrick's to keep. Och ! heart of St. Patrick ! the exile deplores The day that he left the ould sod and its shores ; Here, not a green leaf can escape from the cow. For a shamroch to stick in his button-hole now I Luck bo with ould times, that in childhood I saw, In the " land of my forefathers, Erin go Bragh !" ^- ♦■ THE ISLAND MIN8TEEL. 83 Where the sun shone as clearly in March as in May^ For the elements honor d "St. Patrick^s own day." PADDY THE PIPER. The publication of tlic lines on St. Patrick's Day called forth the following effusion from the pen of a young man, a law student in the olllce of W. A, Johnstone, Esq., over the signature of "Mickey the Ilari'er" I have taken the liberty to insert his verses for the better understanding of the pieces which follow. They are but trifles at the best, but as " trifles help to form the sum of human things," their perusal may possibly afford some amusement among that class of readers who " can laugh they know not why, and be pleased they care not whereiore." I may as well remark here that " Mickey" and " Paddy" were on the best of terms during the continuance ol the correspondence, and nothing could give the writer greater plea- sure than to learn of the welfare and success of the young Irish gen- tleman who figures over the nom, deplume of "Mickey the Harper.' Faith the harp, tho' unstrung, sounds once more o'er the plain. For bould " Paddy the Piper" has tuned it again ; And wide o'er the snow-bedecked fields of our Isle It vibrates wia an echo all hearts to beguile. Sure meself did once hear full many a time o'er, That the wonders of ould we would never see more; But away wid such bosh, for to all it is clear. That om' own " Piping Paddy" reviv'd them this year. Och ! I conned wid delight, I in justice may say, His most illigant verses on " Patrick's own day j" 84 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Sure I read and re-read them, an' whin I had done, I thought that Prince Edward should pride in her son. But ''my bright and clear eye" wid lustre did shine When enraptured I gazed on that broth of a line Where he spakes of the whiskey, for plain I did see, That 'twas ould acquaintance that made him so free. An' tho' perched on a chair, I wid rapture did start. At the touching allusion to ''Patrick's own heart;" An' the thought 'fore my mind's eye rushed on mighty plain, That the heart of bould Paddy has clouded his brain. And bedad how I wonder' d his wind hadn't broke. At the mintion he made of the "curlin and smoke" Of shillalahs that figur'd in many a fray. Shedding lustre on Paddy an' "Patrick's own day. But says I to myself, sure since piping's his trade, 'T would be foolish in me to praise or upbraid ; Since the rhyming of Paddy is counted as law. In the Isle of his fathers, Prince Edward Go Bragh ! MICKEY THE HARPER. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 85 TO MICKEY THE HARPER. Arrah ! Mickey, my honey ! my heart lapes wid joy! 'Tis little I thought thin, mavourneen ! that I, When I blew the ould pipes for St. Patrick, should hear Such a musical strain from your Harp, Mickey dear! Bedad, but my bosom, it kindled up warm. And I reddenM my pipe to look out did it storm ! Biddy, darlint, acushla! reach down my ould hat ; That's Mickey, ^^ says I, " or my name isn't Pat 1" (< " What Michey ? '' says she,—" What Mickey ! " says I, " Is it you that don't know law'er J n's hrkjht boy ? Biddy, darlint, be quick ; bring the ' sheep skins ' along Till I trate Mickey Free to the wind of a song." So outside the front door, be the " stars and the stripes," 'Tis meself that made melody dance on the pipes ; You might hear them to Malpeque or Newtown away. Till the wind o' my elbow gave out in the play. I 80 THE ISLAND Minstrel. Then I wint within doors and sat down on my '' chair/' Wishing you^ honest MlhOf an' St Patrick were there ; What with Biddy and me, sure us four such a tune Could sind up, as would ravish the man in the moon ! That's if he has an car for swate music's delight — Barrin' he hadn't drunk too much whiskey that night ! But I'm gettin' sky high, and don t know, I declare. If they take e'er a '^ pot o' St. Patrick " up there ! But whether or not, in that far away sphere — It can make little odds to us. Irishmen, here ; One thing MVce, we know, an' in troth we may say. If there's Irishmen there, they'll rcmimhcr the day. To come down from the moon; 'twas a capital joke Whin of " whiskey and former acquaintance " ye spoke ; An' meself thought at once — but of coorse I'll not tell,— Of the shpree that was in the Pavilion Hotel THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 87 that Whin the colonel was lavin' ! — But now let me stop ; Sure the best o' good people sometimes take a dhrop ; An' I'm thinkin', friend Mil-o, be tbny cowld drinlcs or hot. You'll be sure as tho law for our next Patrick's pot. An' Mil'o, in the future,, 'tis I will looh sharp, To see can I hear the first thrum o' yer harp, When, in winter or summer, December or Juno, Pat']\ squeze the '^ old sheep skin'' to f ive you a tune! PADDY THE PIPER. say, day. [pital ye not ADDRESS TO " PADDY THE PIPErV FAIE FRIEND "biddy." Arrah ! Biddy, mavourneen, the news of the town Is, that Mickey the Harper is done up quite brown; For moon-stricken Paddy, that blue mouldy blade. Has CjiSt " Lawyer J — n's bright boy" into the shade. 1^ 88 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Och ! the Mon'ther of Winsday, that orthodox shate, Saved Paddy from hawkin' his last thro* the sthrate, And, acushla, the " Corner," inflated wid gaas, Gave out the last bray of the musical . i. I I n Shure he whispered ye, Biddy, the " sheep-skins" to bring. Till of whiskey and one " Mickey Free" he would sing; And he shtruck up a lilt, so that the world might all know it. That our Island could boast her own maniac poet ! At his ravins, oh musha ! the stars in affright Looked stealthily down on that could Winsday night ; And even the moon, that inconstant ould jade. Grew dark in the face, and withdrew in the shade. And bedad ! mid the darkness that covered our sphere. The moon-stricken rhymer to natives born here Read his lay. No. 2, while the white of his eye Kept pace wid his rant, now tp airth, now to sky. THE ISLAND MINSTBEI. gg But the crame o tho ir.u« • read, ""''' ''' ^'"'^ «« had been Wid an ominous look an' „ „t, i , , P«t cries to aich l^eZ ''t ° *^ ^^'^<'' dy's head '^' ^"^^ *"'-''ed P^d- wid^-^f^tj:-^- js, i'addy agi-a ye are sould I' "'■'tr'" """"*"'"-«. .lor. sphi-ee. ^ ^^* ^P^ol^e av the Tis a failin' thev sroTr „ • > 'Twouldn't do to sS Z """^ "'°''^^' ''"' tWn TW some of twL SeX^?" *^-Perance min; ^^^eiuiceoftheC-^-S^^^^^^^ "'"tuSp^^"'*--^-"^ Paddy I'-^'^emidstofhisra.Vandsh.alWadhrop; 90 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Shure don't he need it, to keep him in tune To answer the Harper, December and June.'' MICKEY THE HARPER. TO MICKEY THE HARPER. When the last Patrick's pot of ould whiskey was drawn ; When St. Patrick had come and St. Patrick had gone ; And all dacent Irishmen sober and true, Had returned to their work, that had any to do : a Then Mickey, I heard the deplorable news. That you were out drinkin', and into '^ the blues ; Neglecting your law business — out on the hurst — Until April the ninth, (not to mention the first !) And the way that I heard it, — a saicrit I'll tell, — Says Biddy, says she — " is the law'er's boy well ? Here's a letter from him that's directed to me. And I know by the writin' that Mike's on the spree: THE ISLAND MTNSTREL. 91 t( For he rants of the stars, and he raves of the moon, — Mnsha! faith he'll be fit for a ' strait jacket' soon : If something's not done for the hot/, thin 'tis clear, 'Tis with Gidley he'll be ere the close o' the year. •^ Do, Paddy, machree, take the pipes from the wall, And play for poor Mickey the Temperance call : With the help o' the saints, it might turn him about, — Make him think of his mother — she don't know he's out." Wisha Biddy, says I, show the writin' to me, — For I thought 'twas a joke to say, '* Mike's on the spree" — Till I read to " mavourneen, the news of the Town Is, that MicJiey the Harper is done up quite hroivn. )> Och ! vo, vo ! to Biddy, says I, but ye re right ; Sui'e the boy's in a mcacjrim, his head has gone light; For who'd think to turn — unless crack'd in the crown — Such a green one as Mike to the color of hroivn I Pretty story, indeed ! to get up in the morn — A gintlemen bred and an Irishman born — C) IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) .{^ ^> Zj I 1.0 I.I 1.25 If 1^ 1^ ''-■ ■— 1 2.2 i: ii£ liiZO U III 1.6 - 6" i^ ^l V Photographic Sciences Corporation 33 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTEK, NY. US80 (716) 873-4S03 T ,elon^ed to New London, but the writer was not personally acquainted with them, and cannot at the present time remember their names ; " But doubtless thev are not forgot— They too had frieuus to weep." When in repose the billows sleep^ Old Ocean's face is smooth and fair ! — The sailor trusts the flattering deep^ Nor deems he death is lurking there ; Hope shines upon his watery path^ He spreads his canvass to the wind ; And^ braving Neptune's sleeping wrath. Leaves happy home and friends behind. As fav'ring breezes gently swell His sails, and onward fast he flies ; For him (ah, would they might prevail !) To Heaven what fervent prayers aries ! \ THE ISLAND MINSTBEL. 95 ff God shield thee^ hardy mariner^ Expos'd to dangers on the main ; And be thy help and comforter, And bring thee safely home again/' So pray, perchance, some aged pair, Distressed by dark foreboding fearSj For objects of their fondest care. The hope of their declining years. Such anxious thoughts as parents know^ Within their beating bosoms burn. Lest those who o'er the billows go . Should never to their arms return. See yonder ! dashing through the spray, A sail, well manned by seamen four ; How fast she cuts her foaining way Along the wild New London shore ! Youth walks that deck with heart elate, And hope inspires each manly form. But see ! the angry brow of fate * Is gathering in Autumnal storm ! Bleak Boreas bids the tempest rise, — Sets the impetuous whirlwind free !— Scowling along the heavens it flies. And revels wildly on the sea; 96 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Stirs up the deep with angry might. And urges with resistless hand The billowy breakers, capp'd with white. In foaming madness to the strand ! When tempests ravage seas and skies. What can the power of man avail ! •' Deep calls to deep " with deaf ning noise. And death responding rides the gale I Amid the wild tempestuous strife. The strong-built vessel groans again, The sailors toil and shout for life. And, " staggering, reel like drunken men !" Unheard their shouts ! in vain their toils ! Hope flies in theii* extremity I — An angry Ocean seaward boils, A rocky coaat frowns on the Ice ! Haul aft the sheets ! the canvass strong. That often braved the storm before. Is torn to fluttering rags ! Along She drives ! one crash \ and all is o'er ! Ah ! who in life's estate can say. As joyous hope salutes the morn. What may befal in one short day. To hapless man of woman born ? THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 97 These youthful mariners so brave, Who lately left New London shore, Now sleep beneath the briny wave That sleep which storms disturb no more. And, sadly too, that aged pair. Oppressed with sorrow's weight,must mourn For objects of their fondest care Who left them r.ever to return. — God help them now, bereft and weak. In their extremity of grief And send them resignation meek. For woe like theirs the sole relief. % Jiobnb for an Mtt Shortly after the boginning of the internicine war between the North and the South in the United States, the writer of this article Siiblishcd in Charlottctown a small pamphlet in verse, in which ho rew upas coiTOctly as he could, from the sources of his information, an epitome of what he considered the principal causes which led to that terrible strui;gle, so fearfully protracted, and so sanguinary in its subsequent details. A description of the first battle of "Bull Uuu" formed the closing chapter of the pamphlet, which was in i-eality the prose relation, given by the N. Y. World, of that memorable stam- pede, turned uy the author into indifferent verse. He had the mis- fortune, however, to be misunderstood by some of our American cousirUf who supposed that serio-comic atrair was treated with unbe- coming levity, and that the sympathies of tlie author were enlisted in the cause of wrong battling against the right. Huch at leaat was the charge preferrea by a writer styling herself ( ?) Lizette. sun- posed at the time, by some, to be an American lady sojourning In 98 THE ISLAND MIKSTBEL. Prince Edward Island, and indulging her poetical vein after the following fashion : TO MINSTREL. ! " Island Minstrel " where hath flown the fire Of poesy, wont to inspise thy song? What evil influence thine Island Lyre Hath swept with evil hand its wires along ! Why hast thou stooped from Helicon's proud height To taunt the cause a " Minstrel " should defend, To favor wrong when battling with the right Oppression's cause 'gainst liberty defend. Is it such verse you wish to leave behind, To keep your name and recollection bright ? This the improvement that your talents find ? This a fit use for Poesy's pure light ? No longer let the Island harp be strung For gold, to please a vitiated taste ; Nor Freedom's woes in taunting verse be sung ; No longer on such themes your inspiration waste. TO LIZETTE. LizETTE ! a heavy charge you lay Against the " Minstrel's " fame ; THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 99 «r the fire If you are right, 'tis clear as day He forfeits his good name. He " taunts the cause " — so you indite — A Minstrel should defend/' And favours wrong against the right. To gain a sordid end. dight fend, ? Arraigned for such unseemly deeds, Before the folk at large, The " Minstrel" traverses and pleads Not guilty to the charge. Then dear Lizette, do cease to whine ; For while his breath he draws In Freedom's clime, he'll pen no line To aid oppression's cause. iste. Be ready with your proofs, Lizette, Against the trial day ; — Perhaps you'll be nonsuited yet. And have the costs to pay. For if the charge be not withdrawn. Constrained by innocence. H'ell take a draught from Helicon, And stand on his defence. N. B. Silence on the part of Lizette in your next issue \rill be considered equivalent to a withdrawal of the charge. (To the Editor of ike i* Weekly Vj 100 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. TO MINSTREL. You plead not guilty to the charge I bring — And boldly ask proofs to sustain that charge; To bring such " proofs" I find an easy thing — Are they not written in your works at large ? And first, friend " Minstrel," is he not a foe To any cause, who laughs at its defeat ? And did you not (as your own writings show,) With mirth view freedom's army's grand defeat ? Does the sad death of brave and learned men. Who fell upon Manassas* fatal field. Striving to turn the battle's scale in vain — But food for jeering scoff and laughter yield ? You who with mirth saw freedom's routed host — Whose conquerors fought dark slavery's flag below ; Who as their country's stay oppression boast — Were you to Freedom's sacred cause no foe ? Has your tuned harp in fitting accents rung ? Have you not pleased " a vitiated taste ?" Unworthily for gold have you not sung ? Does not such verse your inspiration waste ? THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 101 Envy nor hate has harbour'd in my breast ; Your verse has cheered full many a leisure hour ; But I desire that that cause which is best May gain, not suffer, by the Muse's power. N. B. Minstrel'a failure to answer this in the next number of the «• Weekly" will bo regarded as a " proof" that he has seen the error of his ways. TO LIZETTE. Again Lizette, an inkling you display For paper warfare, bound to press your charge ; You ask — are not the proofs of what I say Found written in the Minstrel's works at large ? ? I answer No ! a liege of England's Queen, — The " Minstrel " prais'd your noble Washington; But who could keep from laughing at the clean And nimble-footed heroes of Bull Run ? Twas serio-comic, very ! — but instead Of writing Freedom's army's Grand Retreat, You should yourself have called "a spade a spade And written rather " Jonathan's defeat." ?) 102 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. When Washington the great, in bold array The Pilgrim Father's sons to battle led — If Freedom's army then had run away, I ask^ LizETTE, pray what would he have said ? But why of " Freedom's army " make a boast. For Freedom's army ever will be brave, — Was it the object of that blustering host, To manumit the toil-degraded slave ? The work would then have been a God-like task. And worthy of a Washington to-day ; But why was honest Fremont snubb'd, I ask ? Answer me that, Lizette, if you can say. If still inclin'd to pick contention's bone, Another question I'll propose to you — [stone; Tell why was Charleston's harbor block' d with Had "Freedom's army" nothing else to do? Would " brave and learned men," Lizette, conspire The commerce of the world itself to close; Is such an action one that you admire, To spite the face " thus to " cut off the nose ?" tt\ If so, God help you to a better mind. Or else 'tis plain we never can agree ; THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 103 The Minstrel would not write a word unkind, But through your spectacles he cannot see. To Freedom's cause indeed he is no foe, [voke ; Though subjects grave will sometimes mirth pro- But dear Lizette, when ludicrotis they grow, He claims the privilege to " crack a joke." TO MINSTREL. You act the part a heathen may have done, When forty thousand men of Israel's race In death lay slain, by Benjamin's fierce sons. While forty thousand more fled in disgrace. Or when Gilboa's top saw Saul's defeat. And Israel's best and bravest cold in deaths The fierce pursuit, and Judah's sad retreat. The pale moon shining o'er the blood-stained heath. i»» Perchance some Kenite bard, with scornful lyre. Sung Israel's "blust'ring hosts" disgraceful rout; Adding e'en Joshua (whose martial fire oft have sung) would jeer \irere he about. 104 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. When Benjamin seceded, did the right Meet no reverse, although with might allied ? Did not that brave, though sinful tribe, in fight. Twice rout the hosts of Him whom they defied? And next you ask, with sad and solemn prate. Why "Freedom's army" blocked up Charles- ton's Bay ? When you proof that the " army'' did can state. The reason why I will most gladly say. Perhaps you'll tell me if they formed across The harbour's mouth in file or by platoons ; Who sunk the Eat-hole-squadron, — horse or foot. Artillery, sharpshooters or dragoons. That I ignore that which you meant to ask ; Nevertheless you shall not have to say To find a precedent's an easy task — The English thus block'd up Savannah's Bay. And thus they had prepared to serve Boulogne, Which in defence anticipated them ; And Dunkirk's light-house was preserved alone. By a young lad's ingenious stratagem. I will admit the flag our arms defend Beai's not the motto — freedom to the slave ; THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 106 Justice and Right will triumph in the end. And e'en defeat the way to this may prove. Our land is swayed by love of human laws. And those whose Maker is a power on high ; In such a strife, the riglii must gain the cause, And Constitutions framed by man must die. Then ne'er again jeer at a band arrayed. Their fatherland and liberties to save ; Or you deserve to have your laurels fade ; Nor will your memory long survive the grave. The above piece ended the controversy between " Minstrel." About that time it was dis "LiZETTE" and discovered that Lizette had onlv assuniQd the feminine name, and was reallv and tnily a writer of the same sex as the young lad who,*w e are informed, saved Dun- kirk's light-house by an ingenious stratagem. The principal source of tHxp/m/ton was tlnis taken away; and the pleasing romance of the whole thing vanished like the mist of the morning. This it was thai prevented a rejoinder, and not, as some supposedj the strength of the arguments produced, or the keenness of the criticism displayed by " Lizette," who was evidently losing amiability of temper, at the same time that she (or he) was not improving in elegance of ver« siHcatiou. ' I f 106 THE ISLAND HIN8TBIL. ^wlamation. Tbe following piece was Rpoken before the Charlottetown Deba- ting Club and Literary Society, on tlie evening of the 2nd February. 1862. The Club, in connection with the Reading Room, deterniinea to vary the monotony of the weeltly debates, which were confined almost exclusively to the members of tlie Room, by monthly gather- ings for Readings and Recitations, open to the public, by ticket, and at which ladies were invited to be present. These meetings, several of which were held during the winter, were very generally patron- ized by the public. The junior members of the Club, among whom were some young gentlemen engaged in the study of the law, availed themselves of these opportunities for improvement in public speak- ing — an accomi)lishment almost indispciisible in the line of life they had chosen professionally to follow. The last meeting of the k'.ntt had taken ))lace on the 31st of December. Since then, the news irom Europe had been of a very startling and melancholy nature. Intel- ligence was received of the demise of the Prince Consort, who ex- !)ired on the 16th of December, 18(51 ; and whose death, considered n connection with his relationship with our beloved Queen, could only be regarded in the aspect of a national bereavement. Other top- ics, also, of an exciting cnaracter, engrossed the attention of the Quid nuncs of the Town. The "Trent aflair," which at one time threatened to disturb the friendly relations between Britain and (Northern) America, had been happily adjusted, by the surrender of the Rebel Commissioners to the cfemand of the British Government. Such was the state of affairs, when the writer was requested, by the Managing Committee of the Clul), to contribute something towards an evening's entertainment, which was to come off at the Temperance Hall, on the date above written. Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen all ; On this platform again I appear, at the call Of my Club-room companions, to give you a stave* In the rhyming department, — my credit to save, — Or more likely to lose — but be that as it may, You shall hear — if you listen — what I have to say. And first don't it strike you — I'm sure it did me. When I read the "Programme,'' and expected to see THE ISLAND MINSTBEL. 107 My name at the top — that our friends out of sight Have inverted the order of building to-night, And placed on the apex great stones out of place. Which were much better suited to work at the base. But tho' feeling chagrined, as of course who would not. To be left till the last — to be almost forgot ; I determined to waive the affront, and to say Very little about it, lest some other day The Committee, when aiming the public to cram, Might leave my name out of some future pro- gramme. And then only think, what a case that would be For a Bard of ambition ! — a poet like me^ To be hid from the view in obscurity's shade. Thrown up on the shelf like some lumber of trade — Why, in such an event, every chance I should miss To spout before such an assembly as this. But as bed-time advances, I feel 'twould be wrong, And quite out of place to detain you too long ; Presumptuous to hope your attention to keep. When the time has arrived for the business of sleep And yet I could wish, if your patience will last, To make a few simple remarks on the past. ...^ibiri^fe'^. 108 THE ISLAND MINSTBEL. Since I last had the honor to occupy here A place on the eve of the present New-year, — That time of rejoicing, what news have we heard? Which each loyal breast with emotion has stirr'd : Pale Death even then, with his arrow so keen. Had struck the Prince Consort, and widowed the Queen. What a warning to each and a lesson for all : No rank is exempt from that messenger's call, — The Palace of Princes, and Peasantry's cot. He enters alike, whether welcome or not ; And, striking his victim, regardless appears Of the peasant's distress or a nation in tears. While sorrow the heart of our Queen must weigh down, And bedim for a time every gem in her crown, — Let each loyal subject, to lighten her care. Breathe fervent to Heaven his dutiful prayer ; " God save our good Queen and her Majesty bless. And comfort her heart in her deepest distress." I need hardly advert — not inclining to brag — ^o the Yankees^ insulting the old English flag, — ^dt flag which has sheltered for centuries past. Without any distinction of colour or caste — THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 109 So they came without crime — men of every degree, The Symbol of honor and Sign of the free. Twas a hazardous card cousin Jonathan play'd : A bold peradventure that England's afraid (?) But the old British lion, that couchant had lain. Since the slaughter in Syria, rose, shaking his mane; And, again on his feet, gave a growl and a roar. That, like thunder, was heard on America's shore ! 'Twas heard by the Eagle, that scream'd in the sky. As he soar'd with the lambs of Secession on high ; The Republican bird so renown'd for his might. Overawed at the sound, was controlled in his flight ; The American Eagle was struck with dismay. And, relaxing his talons, relinquished his prey ! Or, figures aside, — the Rinaldo was seen, And she show'd at her mizen the flag of our Queen ; When Mason and Slidell discreetly were sent On board of a far safer ship than the Trent, And the old British Ensign, the pride of the sea. Went waving its folds o'er the heads of the free. Mav Heaven continue Great Britain to bless. And grant that "her shadow may never grow less;" As now, — in the future, God grant her to be i I 110 L THE ISLAND MINSTREL. The exiles' retreat^ and the home of the free ; Always on the "qui vive" and prepar'd either for The garlands of peace or the gauntlets of war ! The subject of the following verses was a native of Prince Edward Island, and an intimate friend of the author, who loved him for his unpretending worth and the many excellsnces of his moral character. We formed an acquaintance in 1842 that soon ripened into a friend- ship, which was uninterrupted until the time of his death, which took place at his father's house in 1857. Hoping to better his condi- tion as a Teacher, ho left the Island in the January of 1847, and ob- tainod employment in various parts of New Brunswick. I corres- ponded with him regularly during his absence, and few could excel Dim in the beauties of an epistolatory correspondence. He was nat- urally too sensitive, and or a bashAil, retiring disposition, but his letters were always expressed in a style energetic and manly, and calculated, better than a slight personal acquaintance, to give a cor- rect idea of And call out, Sussex Vale, Success to Hickey, &c. But not confin'd to Hickey, are The honours of the day ; Brave Blatch must in our praises share. And stalwart Sam. McRae. They did their duty as they ought. Upon the rising scale, — Not one of them but could have brought The prize from Sussex Vale. Success to Hickey, &e. Henceforth no poetaster light. Will dare his pen employ To write that '* black is'' now ^' the white" Of Patrick Hickey's eye ; The Muse her pleasure must express. And send, o'er hill and dale. \ THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 127 \ vhere> The tidings of his great suceess Last week, at Sussex Vale, Success to Hickey, &c. Hurra ! we'll sing our Island's fame : Her sons have manfully Sustained a creditable name^ And proved their pedigree ; Their countrymen cry out, well done I And may they never fail To hold the proud distinction won Abroad at Sussex Vale, Success to Hickey, &c. ;e" ems of % Itile. H. M. S. Nile, bearing the flag of Admiral Milne, steamed into our harbor on Saturday IGth August, 18G2 ; she was attended bv the Me- dea and Nimble, two smaller cralt, which anchored opposite the Town, jremindingus of the grand pageant which, two years before, we had witnessed when the Iloyal Squadron visited our harbor in August, 1860. The marines and seamen, belonging to the Nile, landed on Tuesday the 19th, at tlie Queen's Wharf, and forming in line, marched in good order up Queen Street, then out on the Prince To>vn,or Mal- peque Road as far as the *' Queen's Arms," They drew with them several of the ship's guns, and crossing in the direction of the Royalty Road, came to a halt in the shade of some beautiful spruce groves where the men regaled themselves with bread and cheese, beer, Ac. which had been provided for their use, returning by the lower Road to the ship. Thoy were a jolly rolliclung looking set of man, able /^ 128 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. and willing to execute any orders they miKht receive from tfceir Of- flcers. The writer had been on board the Nile on the previous Mon- day, In company with Mr. George Munro of II. M. Customs, who told Bome men onboard that very probably their visit to the Island would be noticed in verse by the Author, who (ho said) was in the habit of writing verses on all extraordinary ocrasions. A promise whh then exacted that a copy of verses should bo written to celebrate the visit of " Heroes of the Nile." The piece here inserted is a copy of that S reduced, several hundreds of which were distributed among the hip'B Company. Brave Tars, who Britain's rights maintain. Who sentinel the deep ; As over Neptune's wide domain A wakeful watch you keep ; Our pride in peace, defence in war. Of stalwart heart and hand ; We greet you, every honest tar, With welcome to our land. Then three times three for Britain's Queen' My countrymen, in style. And three to greet her gallant men. The Heroes of the Nile. The Heroes of the Nile may claim. From ancient Egypt's shore, A name that, linked with Nelson's fame. Will live forevermore ; Tho' fifty years have roU'd away Since Nelson ceas'd to toil. /• THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 129 Hearty and fresh we greet to-day The Heroes of the Nile. Then, &c. Hearty and fresh — aye men that would. If I can judge aright — Behave as well as Nelson could. If called like him to fight ; " England expects/' — that signal plain. Again our foes would foil ; England cannot expect in vain, From Heroes of the Nile. Then, &c. What though our country may . compete. Before the time is long, With Eussia's new unsunken fleet. Or France's navy strong, Or Yankee gunboats, ironclad. We of Prince Edward Isle Will trust our lives to Britain's flag, And Heroes of the Nile, Then, &c. We'll think of Frobisher, and Drake, Nep's * ' champion shots" of old ; 130 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Of Duncan, Nelson, Howe, and Blake^ And Collin gwood the bold; — Who without "Armstrongs," swept the sea. Their enemies to spoil ; And brave as those of old would be, The Heroes of the Nile. Then, &c. Why not ? their energies to try. The British cocks are game : Stir but their blood, — it ranges high — The mercury's the same ; Insult their Queen or Country dear. Old England dare revile. And soon a good account you'll hear From Heroes of the Nile. Then, &c. %en welcome British tars ashore. Both Officers and men ; We never saw you all before. And never may again. But while you follow duty's call. May Heaven upon you smile. And shower down blessings on you all. The Heroes of the Nile. I THE ISLAND MINBTREL. 131 sea^ Then three times throe for Britain's Queen, My countrymen, in stylo ; And three to greet her gallant men, The Heroes of the Nile. ^notjjer abktss to i\t Cljurlottetofon Club. Ye gentlemen of Charlottetown, And ladies doubly dear — Who with yoiu* welcome presence crown Our social meetings here ; Your kind attention let us have, And friendly sympathy. As we now, make our bow — Though an awkward bow it be — To the friends who meet us here to night. This goodly company. We've little histrionic art. No meritricious show. To catch the eye or rend the heart With well dissembled woe : But still to please you is our aim — Not impudently bold — 132 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. And to show, ere you go, That our object is to hold The mirror up to natures face. That all may truth behold. Like prison birds, in pensive mood, We're isolated here. By solid ice or tempests rude. Six months of every year ; While surly Winter holds command. Or reigns supreme as king. Just alive, still we strive To keep alive till Spring, — When the glorious sun will thaw us out. And warmth and freedom bring. And lest our mental powers should chill. This evening we intend. Our sympathies, with right good will. In fusion free to blend ; — For love and friendship have a power E'en Winter to beguile ; And we glow when we know That the ladies on us smile, And their witching glances at us throw. To recompence our toil. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 133 Inspirited by beauty's ray, We'll strive, within our sphere. To lead you on " from grave to gay," From " lively to severe." Variety will mostly please In every thing, you'll find, — See our staff ! you may laugh. But we've stuff of every kind. To give this pleasing novelty. So grateful to the mind. Upon this platform, on our plan, All pari^ discords end ; Here man can meet his brother man. And greet him as a friend. Here fondly we can hope indulge. The goodly time to see When our Isle, yet shall smile. In the light of charity, — When our Legislators, free from guile, To differ shall agree. But on this ground we tread with fear, — And caution must prevail. Lest they should be displeased to hear. And send us all to jail : 134 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. They've passed a Bill to that effect. Their dignity to save ; — Let them show, that they know. In their grand Assembly grave, How the com-tesies of speech should go And gentlemen behave. Within this Club, of Parliament, A right to speak we claim, — Examples should be excellent, And models free from blame. — And now, with your permission kind, I'll change my theme awhile. And review — briefly though — In Epithalamium style. The glorious and exciting news. That's lately reached our Isle. The Prince of Wales, his mother's joy,- God save our Eoyal Queen ! — Who, thirty moons ago, a boy. In Charlottetown was seen, — Has taken to his arms a wife. To ease his load of care ; THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 135 Or has led, to his bed, One of Denmark's daughters fair, — May Heaven rain blessings on her head. And save Victoria's heir. That's piper's news ! it may be said ; Well ! if you ask me why I now advert to what you've read And know as well as 1 1 — It is that bachelors may learn. From this example rare. How they should, to be good. Like Victoria's son and heir. Take wives to keep them nice and warm And please the ladies fair ! From Albert Edward's nuptial song, . And pretty Danish wife. Turn to the Great Republic, long Embroil' d in civil strife; By cannon balls and flashing steel, Dismember'd, bl(3eding, sore. It must cheer when you hear, 'Mid the battle's awful roar. The " still small voice" of Peace, which bids To open Mercy's door. 136 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Honor/ where honor has a claim, Our motto still shall be : America, in Mercy's name And man's extremity. Has sent her splendid clipper ship '' George Griswold" o'er the sea I Honor, then, countrymen. This spontaneous charity To the British poor of Lancashire, Munificent and free ! A deed like this exalts her name. And we our plaudits raise, — Right glad, amid so much to blame, So much is left to praise. But here I cut my story short. As others follow me ; And shall now, make my bow- Though a homely oue it be — To the friends who meet us here to-night, This goodly company. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 137 %)ikm to tjie f . ^. Island Jpfolnnttm, BEFORE THE SHOOTING MATCH, TO COME OFF AT KENSINGTON, AUGUST, 1862. Ye gallant Island Volunteers, May luck and ladies bless you ; Fall into rank and lend your ears. The Bardie must address you. He has no fulsome speech to make. No stereotyped oration ; No compliments for talking's sake. To catch your approbation. He will not *'roose" your looks, and size, And military bearing, And tell a score of naughty lies To set you all a-staring. As yet, youVe had no chance to fight. No enemy to try you; But judging from your looks — all right. If looks do not belie you. 138 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. f> He will not without reason say, That — guns " upo' your shouther. If you were tried, you'd run away, '<'o shirk '' the smell o' pouther/' Last Summer, in pursuit of fame, You went to Sussex valley ; And ihere ye raised the Island name. And Island honor brawly ! No '"^oubt vvhc? for Prince Edward's shore As cc nquerorF j e started. New Brunswickers felt '^ summat" sore And Nova Scotians smarted ; They little thought our Island boys Would curb their wild ambition. And carry off their siller prize. By honest competition. Rifles, attention ! '^ as you were !" — And let me just remind you, Though well you did your duty there. You must not look behind you — Next week, their bold sharp-shooters come Across the strait to meet you ; Think of your bonny Island home. And do not let them beat you. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 139 What would the Bardie have to say ? His country's laurels faded ! The Island '' siller" borne away ! The Volunteers degraded ! — No ! as you care for honor, life. The lassies dear that love you, Be careful, in the coming strife. That none shall score above you. Eyes right ! eyes front ! Bravo I well done ! I see your nerves are steady; Have all your Enfields — every gun. Clean as a whistle — ready. And to increase your chance to win Still higher elevation; Drink neither whiskey, rum, or gin. Nor any strong potation. come Then all our visitors shall see A favourable sample Of native, home-bred courtesy, — The Island's good example ; As subjects of our gracious Queen, You'll cordially receive them. And if they should suppose us oreen You're bound to undeceive them. I 140 - THE ISLAND MINSTBEL. You're bound, with jealous care to guard Your well-won reputation; You're bound to beat — however hard — Their shooting deputation. You're bound — if Wimbledon should come. There 's no such word as doubt it, — To keep that Silver Cup at home. That 'a all and all about it. Then Kifles, steady f mind your aim. And fortune will caress you ; Add to the prestige of your name. And luck and ladies bless you. The bonny lassies let me say, Before I hence dismiss you, Will, if you win the Cup that day. With fond devotion kiss you. The Bard will in their pleasure share. And find the rhyme in season. To spread your honor everywhere, If you'll but find him reason. So, if you please, now, " stand at ease ; " Together boys ! — that's clever ! All Volunteers, three hearty cheers. Our Royal Queen forever ! THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 141 3 i\m m %\vhtt. ome. During the Session of 1862 the Legislature oi Prince Edward Island voted £40, sterling, for the purchnse of a silver cup, also tor inter* colonial competition. The shooting for this prize came off at Ken* Bington, in August, 18H2. From some cause or other our Volunteers >vore unsuccessful at this match. The cup was awarded to Mr. Jolm Marks, of New Brunswick. " Just now I''have ta'en the fit d'rhyme. My barmy noddle's workin^ prime ; My fancy\ yerhet up sublime Wi^ hasty summon ; — Hae ye no moments leisure time. To hear whafs comin' f — BvBirt. At Kensington or Belvidere, In August of the present year. Our Eiflemen, from far and near, Together came, — Accoutred in their shooting gear, To take their aim. )> An' mony a form o* manly mould. Among our Volunteers enrolled. Of veteran look an' courage bold (Blue, red and grey,) Prince Edward's honor to uphold, Stood there that day. 142 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. To fancy's eye fair was the scene, — White tents were spread upon the green ; And posted sentries might be seen. Hugging their arms — On guard, like sojurs o* the Queen, ' To give alarms. 'Twas "heavenly weather," bright and fair ; When cracks o'rifles filFd the air. The shooting mania everywhere. Like lightning flew! — All ranks o' living men were there. An' women too. An* then, to make their trouble less. That none might with the weariness Of travel sore themselves distress. Upon the way, Fraser's and ScuUybogue's " Express Ran every day. Ay, every hour the dust would fly. As merchants laid their business by. Or artizans left their employ. For shooting ground. Eager to share the gen'ral joy Diflus'd around. }> THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 143 The matron and the blooming maid, And buxom widow on the glade, And Reverend men, in black arrayed, Together drawn, Stood, gazing at the shooting trade. As it went on. First on the list of marksmen good. With steadiness of nerve endued. From " Forty-nine," McGregor stood, — Perhaps the name With bold " Rob Roy," o' Scottish bluid, Might lineage claim. And next to him, when came the test, "New Perth" produced the second best — A Stewart tall, in homespun drest. Of Island birth, But Scottish pedigree, impressed With money's worth. Beairsto was third, none will deny Of grand ijliysique, and keen of eye ; He raised the " Queen's Own " Company To high repute, — The Bard taught him, when but a boy. The way to shoot. 144 THE ISLAND MlTNSTRETi. But then, 'twould take too long to tell The names of all that bore the bell, Where half a score, all shooting well. Did each one vie His country's martial fame to swell. By scoring high. The local shooting now was o'er. And TWENTY-TWO the highest score ; Fair practice ! Still remained in store To be set up — Worth all the prizes won before — The ''Siller Cup"! This match the Provinces may share; New Brunswick sends her Marksmen rare ; And Nova Scotia's best are there. To turn the scale. And pluck the bays our Rifles wear From Sussex Vale. And, sure enough, before our eyes — To every Island man's surprise — (Unless the Artillery Sergeant lies That kept the run) Marks won the bonny silver prize. By twenty-one. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 145 )> The Bardie stood upon the ground, Outside the ropes, " a-bobbin' round To show fair play, and heard the sound O' Harper's crack, — And faith, he'd a'raost bet a pound It hit the black. All MAY be right (?) but current are Dame Rumor's notes, that pass at par ; 'Tis said that Hunter John Duvar Drove furiously Plebian bodies back, so far, They couldna' see. Indeed, the Bardie know 8 himsel — Although he dinna like to tell — The name of one stupendous swell, That ca'd a sentry To drive himsel and Charlie Bell Behind the gentry. E'en now, while I these verses sing, In spite of Colonel Lourie's spring, And back and forward galloping Across the plain, Some doubts still hang about the thing. Which must remain. 146 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Well, let that pass : but just before I cease my song — however sore Some men may feel — one subject more Demands my pen, — Impartial be the Poet's score OfKiflemen. All rang'd along the Eastern side Of that fair field, extending wide, Sha. ties, whose owners law defied. Like mushrooms sprung, — Where rum and whiskey were supplied To old and young. 'Tis said, when darkness settled down. And honest men went back to Town — No longer awed by virtue's frown. Or Sol's bright beam- Licentiousness put on his crown. And reign' d supreme. Some, eager to cry out, for shame. Attempt the Government to blame ; But tho' that target's up, fair game, 'Tis hard to hit it, — To wink at sin is not the same As to commit it (?) THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 147 Nor would the Bardie waste his time, His pen and ink, and precious rhyme. To notice here the dens of crime There improvised Were not by them our Kifles prime DemoraHzed, By them — the bane of every land — They lost, perhaps, their self-command. Their steadiness of aim and hand ; And, when was up The game, they lost the Island's grand Large Silver Cup. t ■ '■ i ■3 V, ■n " I ; i 148 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. %)ikm to ^rinte %\ixt)i, ON HIS VISITING PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, 1861. You're welcome to Prince Edward Island, Prince I Our gracious Sovereign's second royal boy ! — Almost a twelvemonth has departed, since We greeted with enthusiastic joy The Prince of Wales, who came to see us here — When visiting these Occidental shores — While you were in the other hemisphere. Among the Oriental Caflfre boors, — Spreading the fame of your Most Royal Mother, At the antipodes of one another. But tho' your travels took a mighty sweep — Thanks to that Providence whose care is seen In numerous perils on the '^ vasty deep," You both got safely home to see the Queen, — We read the news out here with deep emotion. How our late visitor, the Prince of Wales Encounter^ on the bleak Atlantic Ocean The buffeting of some tremendous gales; While Neptune fiddled, like a very Nero, To keep the Suite a dancing in the Hero, THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 149 But that's all over now, and all is well ! — We wish you had been here last Summer too. To see, in j^i/'opria, personce, and to tell The Queen what loyal Islanders can do On great occasions ! — gallant Volunteers ! "Fun, fuss and feathers \" systematic marches Thro' artificial groves, — tremendous cheers ! When passing under ornamental arches. That graced with beauty every street and square. Covered with mottos grand and rich devices rare ! And tben the cannon — bang ! reverberation ! A noise that nearly tore our ears asunder, — That shook our city on its firm foundation. And fill'd our inexperienc'd souls with wonder! But you're a sailor ! and you know full well The stunning noise these heavy " Armstrongs" Booming along the broad Atlantic swell. [make. They cause Old England's foes with fear to quaket Success to Britain's fleets ! — they guard her Isle — They won St. Vincent, Trafalgar and Nile ! Success and fame to youthful A fred too ! Aye ! may his Highness soon promoted be. To hoist his flag as Admiral of the Blue, In the best ship his Mother sends to sea — And the lov'd name of Alfred may we hear u. n 150 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Yet sounding with those mighty names of yore, Drake, Frobisher, Blake, Nelson and Napier, And gallant-hearted Trunnion, Commodore 1 Who drove the foes of England far from home, Scatt'ring their fleets like drift-wood on the foam ! And not forgetting our beloved Queen, Your Royal Mother — may her throne still be As heretofore, secure, — her mind serene, — God bless her in her health and family. But I must take in canvass, lest I run Past the St. George : Hoy ! Alfred, hear me speak In the third person — to his Sovereign's son The loyal poet drops his mizen peak, — A compliment he's not disposed to pay To every gold-laced sub that comes this way. ti THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 151 |tite Sljooting at Unirc, Friday, Sept. 12, 1862. The ownership of the sjjlendid silver cup set up l)y the Govern- ment of Nova Scotia, for Intercolonial competition, was decided on Friday, the 12th of September, at Truro, by the crnek of M;«*or rollard's ritle. Fortune again smiled upon the Islanders ahrimd, and more tlian made up for any disappointment they mijE^ht have felt, when in the month of August the Island " siller" was earned away by a New Brunswick IVlAKKsman. Major Pollard, of Char- lottetown, and James McLaren, of New Perth, were ties at Truro, each having made 21 points and 15 hits. Lipon shooting oil", victory perched on the Major's rifle, — he having at the sixth shot made 4 i)oints and 4 hits . I need liardly remind my readers that the wind of popular api)lnu.sc blew violently in the direction of the Major's hon- our, who liad certainly acted very (ileverly, in bringing home the best prize ever oflTered in tlie Colonies for comi)etition. Here follows a copy of some verses written to commemorate tlie Major's 'success. [strung, Let the Harp of Prince Edward with gladness be And her Volunteers' praises with spirit be sung ; For none in the neighboring Provinces round. Where Riflemen ready are everywhere found. With our Island-born boys can a moment compare, We repeat the assertion — deny it who dare ! Wreathe a beautiful garland of evergreens rare, For the Charlottetown victor in triumph to wear. Who at Truro last week, when the sharpshooters met. Won the very best prize in the Colonies yet : Let his warm-hearted countrymen, loyal and true, Accord him the honor, so justly his due. \ 1 I 152 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. « Let the finest display which our Town can supply Of bunting be raised and stream out to the sky. To welcome brave Pollard, who fairly has won Nova Scotia's best prize by the crack of his gun. Three cheers, then, for Pollard ! each warm- hearted man ! He's a trump is the Major I deny it who can. New Brunswick henceforth — it will not be denied. May view her crack shots with some feelings of pride ; For her brave Volunteers have done something to claim The respect of their rivals, by winning one game, — Tho' the Islanders stand, in the use of the gun, When compared with her MARKS-men, as two stand to one. Of our Islanders now we've a right to be proud; Too long we've been twitted and bullied and cowed, Disrespected and taunted, still jogging along. Without a remonstrance, submitting to wrong. — Do you doubt it, good friends? go and read, if you please, Sam Slick's dissertation on Juniper Knees. Nova Scotia may boast with what wit she endows Her Uniackes, Youngs, Haliburtons and Howes, — / / THB ISLAND MINSTREL. 153 jtand g-— fyou lOW3 58,— And the Muse will admit such celebrities great May shoot, pretty fair, in the Halls of Debate; But the senators sage must have opened their eyes, When Pollard walked off with the Government prize ! Yes I well Nova Scotia with wonder might stare, When NONE out of three was the Bluenoses' share, — It was strange, passing strange ! but had hap- pened before. Something always prevented them making a score ; Sea sickness last year was their sharpshooters' bane> This Year, the " Reporter" says — Physic'd again ! Wreathe a garland for Pollard of evergreens rare. For the Charlottetown victor in triumph to wear. Who, at Truro last week, so triumphantly won Nova Scotia's best prize by the crack of his gun. Three cheers for brave Pollard, again we will say ; He's a dead shot the Major — keep out of his way ! Nor Pollard alone in our praises shall live ; McLaren must share in the plaudits we give : New Perth may bo proud of the name of her boy, Who at Truro stood up with the Major a tie. Three cheers for McLaren ! — we honor the name. May the ring of his rifle long sound to his fame. lO If; I 154 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. fims on % beatlj of lames C|anMer. AN AMIABLE YOUNG MAN, WHO WAS ACCIDENTALLY DROWNED BY THE BREAKING OP THE ICE, WHILE TAKING A PLEASURE TRIP DOWN THE RIVER ON THE EVENING OF JANUARY 14, 1863. One of tlie principal sources of nmnsement, in Prince Edward Isl- and, during the Winter season, used to be found in the employment of numerous »Ve boats, Miiicli ran over the glib surface of ot our bays and rivers, with almost incredible sMillness. This sort of hoating, under favourable cii-oumstances, formed a species of recreation, which, although attended with some degree of hazard, consequent upon tlie rai)idlty of the motions, was nevertheless very largely jirac- tised by such persons as found in the excitement of the sport a stimulus to brave any danger, attendant upon the exercise of the fascinating pastime. Tlie oi^crurrence of a thaw was usually the sig- nal for a general turn out of these Yachts of the Winter; and at such a time, our harbor wouldIi)resent an auinuitedapiiearance of dashing activity, never yet equalled V)y the tamer and tardier exhibitions of our summer liegattas. The fairy-like skiffs move with more than rail-road rapidity; often gliding along at the rate of thirty or loi'ty miles an hour; while the celerity of their movements in '■'■ coming «6oM<," comi)ared with those of our summer cratl *' *» stays," sets the mind involuntarily speculating on the bare i)ossibility of our in- defatigable ilfc(><*«m*eva8 almost the only nlace where the inhabi- tants could enjoy themselves by taking the iresh air on a flne sum- mer evening. The Gathkuino under consideration was among the last of the old associations that cluster in the memoi'y around the •pot, remembered as the Old Barrack Square, SANDY. "Oh I saw ye the crowds in their wonder surround- ing The '' Major and Staff/' on the auld Barrack Square ? And heard ye the bagpipes' wild melody sound- ing, When Donald and a' the braw pipers were there ? — THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 171 They blow like the brave, when a citadel storming, Each Scottish heart dancing wi' national glee ; Ye should hae been there man 1 the weather was charming. And fine bonny lassies were pleasant to see." JOHN. "Don't talk about bagpipes ! — the lassies endearing I like well enough — but that barbarous drone 1 I'd rather be miles to the tvindtvard of hearing, When that relic of obsolete ages is blown. Away with your heathenish pibrochs, I loathe 'em ; They might do in the Highlands of Scotland to play, But here, in a civilized country, to blow them — They'd frighten a horse from his rations of hay." SANDY. "Hoot, man ! ye'U be jesting, or only halfwitted, Talking thus o' the bagpipes, tak' heed what you say ; The sons o' auld Scotia are no to be twitted, 'Nemo me iytijmne lacessit/ — to day. [banter. Blow ! blow ! Donald, blow ! for in spite o' their The soul-stirring pipes are o' music the crown ; To the ear of the Scotchman one screed o' your chanter Is better than a' the brass bands o' the Town." 172 TUB ISLAND MINSTHIL. JOHN. " Keep cool, Alexander ! I cannot commend you For having a very uico delicate car ; And must venture to say, should it even offend you, Your musical taste is confoundedly queer. What are all the loud sounds, from beginning to ending. Produced on your pipes, with the greatest of care, But a jargon of discords, confusedly blending In noise, very few, besides Scotchmen, can bear? ** And Sandy, ray man, just to shorten the story, — For fine execution and musical sound. You should hear the * brass band' of Galbraith in its glory. Delighting the gentry on Government Ground ; Unlike the shrill tones of the bagpipes when squealing. These instruments charm the most civilized ear. And stir up the depths of an Englishman's feeling, With music Beethoven might listen to hear." SANDY. Pinna rave, mon, sae loud o* Galbraith and Beeth- oven ! That the sounds o' the bagpipes have civilized mair THE ISLAND MIN8TKEL. 173 Than a' the brass bands, ever blown, can be proven; This Donald the piper is ready to swear. Aft fochting abroad in the land o' the stranger, Th' invincible Scot never knows a defeat ; But, piping the flag o' Great Britain thro* danger, He pla}:s every air in the world, — but retreat. md; 'hen " Tis there, ye should hear the bold pibroch, worth hearing ; The sounds that inspirit the souls of the brave ; When the fierce kilted Scotchman goes forward wi' cheering, Some Alma to conquer, some Lucknow to save. For a raid on the mountain, for fight or for forage. The ball-room's diversion, or battle's affray The blowers o' brass bands are no worth their porridge. And ken less about mnsic than rinnin' away. Jth- zed I "Oh! saw ye the crowds in their wonder sur- rounding Ex Major McGill and his Staff" on the Square ; And heard ye the bagpipes, their melody sounding. When Donald and a' the braw pipers were there? Ye should hae seen Donald ! nae signs o* his failing, Dress' d out in full costume o' tartan array ; 174 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Tho* threescore and ten, yet as brisk as a callan, He danc'd on the green a blithe Scottish strath- spey. ''And Donald went through the performance most featly, The reel or the auld Highland fling, on that day ; Few youngsters, when sparking, could trip it more neatly, More nimbly on foot — tho' his tresses ai^e gray. Long life to old Donald ! may Providence send him A routh o^ good wind to hold out to the last ; A guardian of gi'ace, in his age to defend him. And music above when his piping is past.^' ^tone. SPOKEN AT THE FREEMASONS GRAND CEREMONIAL AT THE TEMPERANCE HALL, ON FRIDAY EVEl ING, 19th FEBRUARY, 1864. The ancient and hou-^rable order of*' Free and Acoeiited Masons" met at the Temperance Hall, on the above date, to spend an evening in social awd rational enjoyment. The writer was invited by the Hon. Dr. Yonng, to take \n'.rt in the eveiunj^'s proceedings, wliich consisted of readings, recitations, «fec., enlivened, at intervals, by the inspiriting strains of "Mr. Galbraith's brass band. The Half was tastefully decorated with elegant spinice arches, trimmed Avitli arti- ilcial flowers, which appeared, in the gaslight, to bloom in all the ■mmm. \ THIC ISLAND MINSTREL. 175 luxuriance of a tropical summer; contrasting strongly to the stern I'calAy outsiide, where " Winter howled in gusty storms The lang dark night." It was a free and easy sort of entertainment, at which every one, accoiding to the bent of his or hei inciiiiatioM, followed Fancv'as she led tht way. At the lower end of the Hall, taiJe-t were riclily pro- vided with excellent cake; juul tlie Misses McKonzie snpplieil supe- rior tea and cDfl'ee to all that chose to partake ol these slightlv intoxicating beverages ! Every thing passed otrharmoni.>uslv, with the utmost apparent good will, and the writer is pleased to record his testimony to its having been o..e of the pleasantest evenings he ever passed in a pnblic assembly, "Sally come up"' to the contrary notwithstanding. At the Doctor's request, who invited me here, Among the Freemasons to-night I appear; Tho* not to soar up to their mystic sublime — A region too lofty for n^y simple rhyme — Nor yet to dive into their secrets profound, An ocean so deep that my muse might be drown'd. But here I'm to tell vou — and truth will be best — I'd forgotten, in toto, the Doctor's request; 'Twas strange I should do so, but nevertheless I did, and am sorry I did, I confess ; For to such an assemblage as this — by the way — One would wish to have something worth saying, to say. Well ! yesterday la^e, I was told that my name, Was on your Programme for poetical fame; How I wish'd it was off — what a fir to be in ! I had promis'd, and not to perform would be sin : 176 THB ISLAND MINSTRSL. There was no backing out of the hobble I saw, I had promised the Doctor — that word was my law. But let me be brief in discussing my theme. And pardon me, Masons, to-night. If I seem Like a fish out of water, — ^for what can I say Of emblems, perhaps very well in their way. And secrets profound, which you guard as your life. Which Caudle refused to disclose to his wife ? Those dark hieroglyphics bf mysteries grand. Which perhaps some Freemasons don't quite un- derstand ; The gavel, and level, and compass, and square. The arch-column here, and the step-ladder there ; I suppose they're all right, friends ! or else by my song, King Hiram and all the old craftsmen were wrong. But there's some good among you Freemasons I You carry the Biljle about as you go, [know. Which shows — if in secret your counsels you plan — You believe in Divine Revelation to man ; In Jacob's strange ladder, astoundingly tall, And the Omniscient EYE watching over us all. THl ISLAND MINSTREL. 177 Some things I have noted : in friendship you live, Are social by habit — fine dinners you give ! Are loyal, to judge by the toasts you repeat — When on festive occasions together you meet. Two beautiful traits in your lives may be seen, You cherish your stomachs, and honor the Queen. Success to the Craft which, if well understood. Like other benevolent schemes, may be good. May the knowledge you boast keep your virtues alive. And with honor untarnished your brotherhood thrive ; For this will hold good, from Beersheba to Dan, A right good freemason can't be a bad man." it ^S- w. I As for those silly stories by jrae set afloat. Of the death's head and cross-bones, and riding the goat. And the shovel, red hot — save the mark — -to apply To the candidate's person — chej^'re all in my eye — I've seen Masons made but the e^'^ening before. Walk about the next day not a particle sore ! But enough of such nonsense, look around you I pray ; What grand decorations, what gorgeous display ; 178 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. What elegant spruce-mantled arches appear — The like was not seen, since Prince Albert was here : Long life to the Doctor, so freely who gives, May the ladies admire him as long as he lives ! May he still among Masons his virtues unfold ; Grow wiser each day, and be Young when he^s old; Have coin in his coffers to succor distress — In fine, that " his shadow may never be less " Is the wish of the Bard who — the truth may be told— "Wouldn't flatter Prince Albert for silver or gold. And now, my good friends, as the night-dial goes. And the shadow advances, I think I may close ; I'm almost ashamed of my rhyme, I profess. But must plead, 'twas a hastily written address ; I only need add, at the next Masons' shine, What the Bard will^expect — is a ticot to dine I THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 179 ras Id; be 1. ®l;c onin |^iitj)tntit %tm\\t of tjje ^penher's tecitting Ijb tlj^iir, 28tli APRIL, 1864. Since the middle of March, the elected M. P.'s, In the Hall of Debate had been busy as BB In a barrel of tar, or a field of white clover, Till the work of the Session was pretty well over. They had an swered the Speech of the Governor, each In less than a fortnight, had said all he could On that subject, supposing it ever so good. Legislating perforce, they had done a good deal For their own, and of course for the Colony's weal. Many measures they passM, from the first to the last. Bivalves to increase ! protect the wild geese ! Steam trade to expand, to dimensions more grand. And settle forever the tenure of land 1. To be sure, all along, in the course of debate, Some questions would certainly trouble create. For instance if Pope quoted "Dens,'' on that score, There'd be mischief instanter, and scandal galore. Before " Dens " would be done, sure, the gallery boys. 180 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. High up for the fun, all would would open their eyes, As the ghost of King William of Orange would rise ! And then might be seen, the '^ Orange *' and " Green " In terrible aspect, most anti-serene, That peer'd at each other from eyelids between. With eye-balls of envy, maliciously keen, Alas ! I don^t know Why things should be so ! Let me think for awhile — can it surely be right. Two beautiful colors like these are, to take From the grand decoration of nature, and make Them the symbols of worse than Plantagenet spite? To look for the reason would take me too long. Or lead me perhaps from my subject of song. Some things there will be to the end of the book. Through which we car ^t see, tho' intently we look To discover their meaning, by hook or by crook. An example in point : it can never be said. Why a turkey instinctively flies at the RED ! But as to my readers I hinted before. The work of the season seem'd pretty well o'er ; And to judge by appearance, the session might pass THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 181 With no more than the usual explosion of gas. But the ^'Muse ^^ must rehearse, how at nearly the close Of the Session, yet 7vorse, than the ghost of the phlegmatic Dutchman arose. The question the House undertook to decide, Unto Scotch Metaphysics was nearly allied. Colonel G — y took the lead — debate waxing hot — '' Was the Governor's Creed Presbyterian or not?'' 'Twas a poser to settle — a question unique — Upon which many members were puzzled to speak. Though they knew that the Governor wasn't a Greek. The Colonel on kirk side propounded his views, Ev^n down to the work of re-letting the pews. If the Governor on Sunday to " Church " would repair, No person might say it was wrong to be there. Both the ^'Kirk" and the "Church" were es- tabii 'hfcl by law. And it migrht be invidious distinctions to draw. Still, the question of prrfcrence keeping in sight. Might not going to " Kirk '' be as near to the Right ? His Excellency misfht, keeping ope' the pew door. Come back to the Kirk of his fathers once more. 182 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. By birth he was Scotch, that every one knew, And the House would but botch Legislstion, to do Any less than to pay the " Scotch kirk " for his pew. To the Colonel's opinion the Speaker replied: That the Governor was Scotch it would not be denied; And that might to him be a matter of pride. But then little more could be said on that score — Every Sunday he entered the English CJtnrch door. Each man had a right to do just as he pleased In matters of conscience, and shouldn't be teas'd. Every Church had an equal right — such were his views — To make all the money they could of their pews ; Provided they'd not, under Royal pretence, Try to fill their Church plates at the public expense. To him it seemed strange, to go round with the mitten. To collect for a pew which the Rex wouldn't sit in. The House would remember last Session they pass'd A strong Resolution, which tied them up fast; To that Resolution — the Colonel might storm !— « In letter and spirit he meant to conform. Legislation on Government pews was completed — The titles were had, and of course were escheated. \ J^mms:^^ THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 183 be in. Such then were his views on the matter before' em, And he hoped that the House would behave with decorum ; Parliamentary rule was his hobby, they knew. And as Speaker, by this time, he knew what to do. The Colonel had surely a " bee in his bonnet,'' To think that he would put the question upon it. If the House would persist. After what he had said. And further insist • ' Upon being misled, He would not be blamed, but would have them aware, He was " Cock of the Roost" while he sat in that chair. But the Colonel persisted, and Members insisted, And sides were enlisted, and grammar was twisted : " Don't do what's unfair !" " Do that if you dare !" Some Members got frothy, the Speaker wax'd wrothy, And as he had threatened ^' Resurgam" (?) in troth he, '^ Est modus inrchus/' vacated the chair." To quote honest Oliver Goldsmith — " who wrote Like an angel" — an elegant poet of note : i 184 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. it He throw off his friends, like a huntsman his pack, For he thouii^ht when ho pleased he could whistle them back/' So the ITonse was now left, Of the Speaker bereft ; Sranrlalum vunpiafiim ! a Spoakerless Chair; Like a ship without rudder. They could not even scud her, Unless they the damage could somehow repair. But, to finish my story, Dan Green proposed Rory — For Georgetown the member — An out and out Tory ; Who folk may remember. Had once been a parson himself, in the pay Of the "Kirk," and might still have a bias that way. So, on Summerside's motion. The House, then and there. To allay the commotion, Elected Red Rory to fill up the Chair — 7W/V; as hu/ as his old one — soft, roomy and nice — And the Governor was plcasM to approve of their choice. Installed in his place, The doors being shut, THE ISLAND MINSIREL. 185 his stle Tbo original motion Instantcr was put ; Which settled the troublesome question for aye, Without any appeal, or — or — that is to say, " Tho' the Governor might in the High Church be seen, To represent there in exteniaJs the Queen ; Yet, nevertheless, he might still, even then, Be staunch Presbyterian — Amen and Amen. ' )air. ray. )ir ^rrikl of i\t " f rinttss of Halts." The " Princess of Wales," built in New Brunswick for the "Steam Navigation Company" of I'rinc^e Ee neighbouring Provinces. The model of the Princess of Wales is considered by judges to be good, her accommodations are of a supe- rior kind, and altogether she is very far in advance of any .Steamer heretofore eni)doyed in the same service. She has been on the Btation for nearly four year.s — has performed her work with great regularity, and is now considered a trustworthy and comfortable boat. The Princess has been well tested, liaviug been out in some of the heaviest gales which visit the strait of Northumberland, durinjj the seasons of Spring and Autumn. She has been particu- larly lortunate, also, with respect to the lives of those who have taken passage in her. No instance of loss ol life— 1 believe— either on board or overboard, is as yet connected with her history; a fact, indicating, clearly enough, the care aud bkill, by which, up to the present time, she has been managed. Not quite sixteen moons yet have changed on the sky, Since Britain ran wild in a tumult of joy, 13 ^ ,%^ ^>. IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) 1.0 I.I 1.25 ISO ""^^ t lis, ill 2.0 IM 22 1.4 1= 1.6 V] ^ //, e <^j ^^ A V /A Photographic Sciences Corporation 33 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580 (716) 872-4503 ^^ \ iV I \ <^ ^> \ "^(^ V " Their horns defiance sounding ; While over head their banners spread, With loyal words abounding ! But at their van, we missed the man, Urst foremost in the cause. Sir, Who taught them well how to rebel — Obedient to ihe laws. Sir t 198 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. George Adams who, strange things could do, And sav, and write, — turn'd tail, Sir, — And went away, St Patrick's day. To drive the Georgetown mail, Sir ! Then came the rub, the Sheriff's sub Essayed the rash transaction, To take a man, by legal plan, . From that lip -loyal faction ! Essay*d in vain ! with might and main Their Prussian horns they sounded ; And, with their tins, brought to his pins. The acting Sheriff wounded. "By flags displayed, and speeches made. They loyalty could utter, But rudely snub the Sheriff ^s sub, And tramp him in the gutter ! Said Johnny Boss, the printer boss, I told you last October How things would be, and now you see — Why was not C s sober ? And wherefore try those measures high ? To pay is not convenient; When Sheriffs may be kept away, By men, to lawB ale I'^nt ! THB ISLAND MINSTRXL. 1C9 do, Said Georgius Rex, these tenants vex Our wise administration; We must maintain laws righteous reign. And issue Proclamation ! And thus it ran, that every man. Who held the Queen's commission. Should ready stand to lend a hand, And crush this new sedition. Said Johnny- ■we must be quick — He holds the SherifF^s status — I'll call, said he, to go with me, The Posse Comitatus ! Instead of ten, — two hundred men Shall snap rebellion's fibres ; And, pleas' d or not, those rogues shall trot. The Tenant League subscribers. And there and then, he took his pen, And wrote, for the occasion. His summonses to chosen men, To meet him at his station ; Ready to fight, for law and right. Laying aside pretences. To go with him, in marching trim. And bear their own expenses ! 200 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Ho ! ho ! said one, is that the fun ? I will not stir a peg, Sir ; Another said, if not well fed, He could not lift his leg, Sir ; Neil Rankin swore, that he was sore With rheums of chronic standing. And could not fight, for wrong or right. Were Buonaparte commanding. Ben Davis, he — well, let me see. What did he say ? — why, truly. The Bard that clearly did not hear, The noise wax*d so unruly ! For here and there, and everywhere. The stir was most surprising; Men's pulses beat, at fever heat. And mercury still rising ! The Posse bold, agreed to hold A public consultation ; And, wide awake, their steps to take. With wise deliberation ; For some well knew, it would not do. To shirk the Sheriff's levy ; Right out to blow, they would not go. As penalties were heavy. THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 201 So to be short with this report Of all about the meeting ; An embassy was sent away To George, the Ruler, greetino ; " The roads were bad, their hearts were sad, It crossed their inclination ; They hoped that he would set them free. From Posse obligation ! The Ruler read, and shook his head. Then said, to soothe their sorrow. Their wisest Rule would be " keep cool. He'd let them know to-morrow ; To-morrow came, all up the game ! The mercury was falling ; The Ruler dares not interfere With the High Sheriff's calling." jf But all about, the grand turn out. The morning embarkation Of cavalcade, and light brigade. And varied operation ; Some future time, if '' fit o' rhyme,' Come o'er his " noddle barmy," The Bard may tell, meanwhile farewell, " The Gin'ral and the army." 13 )t 202 THB ISLAND MINSTREL. %\t §wai Conflagration. On the 15th July, ISflfl, the inhabitants of Charlottetown were awaked from their slumbers by tlie hoarse clangour of the lircbcll, breaking thrnujfh the stiiiness which usually prevails in oiii* midst, on a Summer .Sunday mominff. It was soon diflcovcred that fire had originated among some shavings, in a house recently purchased by Mr. J. G. Eckstant, Hair Dresser, of this City; and which, at the time, was undergoing some repairs. The house itself formed |)art of the group of buildings, known as the Bagnall property ; and which, from its situation and surroundings, was jianicularly dangerous as the starting point for an extensive conflagration. The weather, for some tmie previously, had been exceedingly dry, and the roofs of the houses around, in consequence, were almost like tinder; which, kindling from the sparks that fell upon them in fiery showers, burst into flames and spread with resistless lury in all JlirectionS. The Firemen and inhabitants did all they could, but notwithstanding their utmost clTorts, the Imildings on four blocks, in the most popu- lous i)art of the City, were, in a few hours, almost entirely destroyed . It is estimiteil th;it property to the amount of £(J0,000 was con- sumed by the devouring element; not more than one-third of which "was covered by Insurance. The following letter was received from a young friend in Canada "We&t, to whom was sent a copy of the verses, printed below. Creemore P. O., Simeo County, C. W., 21st August, 1866. Dear Friend LePage ; I received, the other day, an exceedingly good, and, at the same time, somewhat amusing, poetical account of the late disastrous Are •which destroyed so large a portion of the good old City of Charlotte- toM'u. One of my sisters intimated by a few words that it was a present from you. Now, I must just say, that I am very much obliged to yoii for your kindness in thinking of me in this far-oflf portion of the half-cinhzed world. You Will therefore accept of my thanks for your very welcome present, And believe me, youis, very truly, J. B. THOMPSON- To John LePaL^, Esq. ** Fire ! Fire ! said the Crier ; Where t Where f said the Mayor J** In Pownal Street! said Major Beetb^ Those ancient piles of wood, — , THE ISLAND lilNSTREL. 20S 1866. The Bagnall-BuildiDgs^ which complete, For sixty years have stood ! Of venerable memory ; Among our oldest names ; Ring ! ring ! the bell, the folk to tell These buildings are in flames ! Enwrapt in balmy slumbers, lay The citizens around, Tir'd with the toils of Saturday, And " sleeping very sound." Ding, dong! Ding, dong! both loud and long, , The Fire-Bell, in its way. Said, sleepers rise and rub yoiir eyes. There's work to do to-day ! In haste they rose, put on their clothes. Each striving for the van ; Some with the engines and the hose. And some with buckets ran. The people swarm' d, the lines were form'd. But pipe and hose were vain, — 'Twas all too late to stop the fate Of Bagnall's old domain ! Thence, raging conflagration red Went forth, three several ways : North, to the " Mansion House," it spread^ And set it in a blaze. 204 TEH ISIAVD MINSTREL. Three times was checfeM ih^ r • Before the die wtts/^ '~ ^''-' Three times the fire renew'd its claim And brought it down at lai ' mth wreck and ruin fraught • Mike Kellv's dwelling bri in ' , AndBAENAED', ,„^,"8^''"3^ gleams, Up Water sTreet'I^"-'^'*"^''" r oireec. With raginff heat The Igneous billows roll ' A^'Jraget/oronrol.^"'^^'^''^^--' Exceeds the Muse's flight • ^ On shingles dry the cinders fly And blaze where'er they li/ht A hundred roofs in ruin flare! Tbtck Street is all in flames ! And now, remark, one fatal spark! Thffi'r*'''''°"'°f«o°nT To BcMTADT'8 grand saloon J I U_ THE ISLAND HINSTRE&. 205 One blackened scene is all between That meets the astonished eye; Save Peake's hrich ivarehouse, two whole blocks In smoking debris lie ! n 0. How great a inatter ! " who can tell One spark abroad may send ; Or who divine, if kindled well. Where its effect shall end ? Not Queen Street wide, the city's pride. Nor all her her sons emprise Can downward bring the fiery wing, On which destruction flies 1 Across Queen Street the flame is sent. Urged by the heated blast. To the old seat of Government, That relic of the past ; Though ninety years it there has stood. Defiant to decay. Envelop' d in a fiery flood, Behold it pass away ! With all its neighboring range ! — and how The flames again extend ! Two other blocks are burning now, Where shall this ruin end ? 206 THB ISLAND MINSTREL. Riches are making fiery wings, With which to take their flight; " Exeunt infumo /" — transient things. How soon they're out of sight ! Up f up the hill ! to Great George Street The fire has made its way ; But there, thank God, for mercy great, The flames their fury stay. Thanks be unto the fire brigade. Who fought through stifling air, And by their efforts, nobly made, Stopp'd devastation there. Some say the Bishop tum'd the flame : Well ! if that tale be true, I'll not object, in wonder's name. To thank the Bishop too. For had the large Cathedral caught. And burnt, from steeple down. We might have said, as ruin spread. Good-bye to Charlottetown \ THB ISLAND MIVSTBBL. 207 %\t %ihvik Cable snttessfullg lai^. Fair Science ! whose illustrious name Dates backward to the Flood, Upon the highest arch of fame^ With portly aspect stood ! Thence, retrospective, she survey' d The wonders of her hand. The progress made, in arts and trade^ And wrought in every land ! Well might she look upon that scene^ And feel her pleasures rise ! Successful had her efforts been. Where'er she turn'd her eyes ! Or east or west, where'er the, sun. With warmth and beauty shines. The prospect fair was everywhere Improved, by her designs ! With *' ag^culture," arm in arm. Or hand in hand, she strayed. And heightened ev'ry simple charm That rural life display'd: 208 ra» MLAWD KINSTMSI. m """T^' " '">"•«" land, wS, f "''^ "^"' '° P-'-e« green WlHch plenteous herbage bore ! ' With perseverance truly great Her matchless skill to sho,.' Smooth'd all the springs of t.^de. "^ wSl "^ *\« Oceans wide ' V^'th many a hulk of mammoth bulk Of naval skill and pride I ' Commeroe^ent free from sea to sea As stately vessels steam'd THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 209 rr And nowj'* said she, " my march shall be. With subtile, silent sweep, Where rest the brave beneath the wave Three thousand fathoms deep." ' " And though my course may not appear To human vision, plain ; From Hemisphere to Hemisphere, Through Neptune's dense domain, 1*11 lay my line beneath the brine — Magnetic currents strong — Though Ocean roar from shore to shore — Shall force my way along." Thus Science spoke, but — well ! what then ? Why, every body knows. Old Neptune, from his watery den. With envious wrath arose. Lifted his ugly trident high. And with one vengeful stroke. Brought down, in spite, with all his might. The Atlantic Cable broke ! A million spent ! plump down it went, Abortive in the deep ! Did Science now contract her brow. Lift up her voice and weep ? 210 THE ISLAND MIN8TBEL. In sackcloth and in ashes sit^ And o'er her loss repine ? Not so, good friends, to mal'o amends, She formed another line! All winter, on the wondrous wires, With care and skill she wrought. And industry, that never tires, By old experience taught. She made it long, and strong, and in The summer's gentle reign. On Erin's shore she stood once more, Prepar'd to try again ; The Ocean broad again she view'd ; But fill'd with ardent hope. And PAiTH, she now, with zeal renewed. Fixed fast the Atlantic rope. " Shore end," unto Valentia's strand, Thence, o'er the wave she went. And placed the trans- Atlantic end To her sweet Heart's Content I " True! Neptune fuss'd, and foam'd, and fumed, As in his former style. And grinn'd with envy, half-consum'd. And growl'd at every mile. ^ i.a>ffiwMwiaiiM TBI ISLAND MINSTREL. 211 But all resistance was in vain, From distant land to land. The Atlantic main^ by lightnimfs chain^ Is NOW SECURELY SPANNED ! [ed, Jietonstrndion. A PEEP AT QUEEN STREET, REJUVENATED. Our citizens, four months ago. Beheld a sight forlorn ! Four blocks at once in ruddy glow, One summer Sunday morn. The Muse, that chronicled that fire. And other famous things. Again must take the city -lyre, And touch its trembling strings. But certes she must take good heed, And strike the strings with care t For very hard to please, indeed^ Some dear old people are. For instance, there's the Major, well I Perhaps His not discreet To mention names, but truth to tell, The Major can't be B — t 212 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. In argument ; he might, forsooth, Take umbrage at my song ; Might charge the Muse with want of truth, And say the notes are wrong. So, careful not to give offence, — As once she happ'd before, — The Muse shall sing plain common sense, The TRUTH, and nothing more ! King Solomon, the wise, once wrote, " There is a time to build ;" And we, of Charlottetown, may note The Scripture truth fulfill'd ! Imprimis, let me notice here, A stately structure fair. Two storeys high, and built this year. Upon the Market Square. Rear'd by the City Fathers wise. And fitted to contain Our semi-weekly sacrifice. If hecatombs are slain ! Pity 'tis built of wood ! some say. Where brick could be procured ! The Fathers ! almost wise as they. The Building have Insured ! THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 213 truth, ase. And now, if you have time to spare. We may as walk down Queen Street, and see what's doing there To rQ-construct the town. Observe I upon the dexter hand, A bird, of wondrous fame. On Brenan's coping seems to stand. Emerging from the flame ! Well that's the Phoenix ! placed up there In confidence, I ween. To cool his system in the air. And watch the Kerosene ! — Success to Starbird and LePage ; May they, by honest trade. Before another fire shall rage. Have both their fortunes made. Next, Watson and McKenzie, see. Four storeys in the air ! United by/ree-masonry, Like " vera brithers " there ! Union is strength, we often boast. Perhaps the maxim's sound : With them, it surely makes the most Of every inch of ground. I 214 THE ISLAND MINSTREL. Long may they flourish, with renown I And Watson spread to view Prime Medicines, to purge the town, And drug the country through ! And fawsont Sandy ! soon may he. By comfits good obtain A handsome independency. Unscathed by fire again. - From Watson's now direct the view. Across the Main Street wide. And notice well the buildings new. Upon the other side. His shop rebuilt, bould Timothy, The public eye to please. Arranges well, from day to day. His Curiosities ! And there, from day to day, he sells. His customers to suit. Books, Papers, Periodicals, And lots of luscious fruit ! Success to Tim ! May he, ere long. With great good luck be crowned ; — But never may a Fenian song Among his stuff be found. sitee THE ISLAND MINSTREL. 215 Yet further down the same broad street. Another spacious pile ; Von Eckstadt's new Hotel, complete. In Barnard's latest style. Who would have thought, four months agone. That, from his ashes here. The German Phoenix of Cologne, So soon would re-appear ? Here, all who have the cash to spare, Who relish sav*ry stews. And other costly dainties rare. May feast and hear the news. But further, here, " mine host" to please, The Muse will simply say, Let all that would be shaved with ease. Walk in without delay. But if not pleas'd with Eckstadt's shave, A little further go ; Another chance, good friends, you'll have,- There's Martin, just below. Rebuilt. As true an Irishman As ever turned a spade, Who keeps within a shaver keen. To split the h&irs of Trade. 219 THE ISLANE MINSTBEL. Long life to Martin ! Martin who ? Why HoGAN, to be sure ! That sells his friends, Hwixt me and you, A drop of ^' kill or cure." By lawful licence of Permit, The freshest mountain dew ; As good as Eckstadt's, every bit. Well, yes, and cheaper, too ! * , But now I do remember well. Friend Judd, of Yankee land. Begins, to-night, his books to sell, At Thomas's Old Stand. A choice collection, too, they are. Of Standard Works, and true ; Thither the Muse will now repair, "Fresh fields and pastures new ! ♦Whatever. a PINIS. W. H. Bbemnbb, Printer and Binder, Charlottetown, P. E> Island. m, sland.