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Maps, plates, charts, etc., mey be filmed at different reduction ratios. Those too large to be entirely included in one exposure are filmed beginning in the upper left hand corner, left to right and top to bottom, as many frames es required. The following diagrams illustrate the method: Les cartes, planches, tableaux, etc., peuvent Atre fiimAs A des taux de rMuction diff6rents. Lorsque le document est trop grand pour Atre reproduit en un seui ciichA, ii est fiim6 d partir de i'angle sup6rieur gauche, de gauche d droite, et de haut en bas, en prenant le nombre d'images n6cessaire. Les diagrammes suivants iilustrent la m^thode. 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 I' ff . RESOURCES OF THE .CAN AD AS-; ' Oft SKJETCtiES ■ OF THE PHYSICAL AND MORAL MEANS* Which Great Britain and her Colonial Authorities will SU6*' tesafulltf "employ in securing those valuable Provinces from 'Open invasion and insidious aggression, on the part oftkg Government of the United States of America. BY A QUERIST. TiBi perpetuft phce JPHii lice^tj hlsi hosWs dpportuiki e( BceintiUttml.— 1^«;. SiJtM, lliHi quidem quae meat auppetit, etoqui non dubitabo. Ceterum tui erit ingeoli probare^ que vera, atque utilla factu putes.— f *-i (.-V t^i / ADVERTISEMENT. ItjTfffE foffozcing pnfKrs zorrr begun at a moment^ when a rnnsldcra- M ble degree of alarm preiaifrd, pailirularlj/ among the timid and least informed part of our population. The verj/ din of preparation is sufficient to confound neat; minds ; and those means which arc em- ploj/edto insun Ihtir safely have the immediate effect of increasing their 'alarm. It appeared to the author that something might he done to quiet those apprehensions, i^hieh often become contagious ; and he resolved to emplo/y, for that purpose^ the share of leisure and information which he possessed. lie is not vain enough to imagine that any of his writings should, from intrinsic merit, have a poicerful iu//uenee on the public mind ,• but the tone of confldeiu-e, in tchieh he began, reus so happily sanctioned bt/ the brilliant events of the last campaign, that his S/ictches seem gradualh/ to have acquired some interest, from the association of ideas ; and he conceives^ that it would not be presumptuous in him to hope that, hn ving thus obtained an adventitious altrudiun, thej/ were favored with some degree of attention. But the advantage of appearing in a Gazette surrounded hy General fhders, Militarj/ Dispatches and '•'•the pomp and circumstance of war," seemed more than connterbafanctd b/y bring thus exhibited to the public at different times and in seal lered fra'X ments . As a tempnrnri/ reparation of the evil, the author designed his General Ri capitulation ; but he was fully aware that Justice to his subject, to the public and to himself, re- quired that the different Numbers should be collected and brought for- ward, in one view, for the favorable considrndion of all who may in- terest themselves in such speculations. Though extensive utility was his aim, he docs not expect a great tiuinber of readers, and he only hopes that the (liscerniiig- taw, will devote a short time to the perusal of his lucubrations. Whatever may be the fate of this publication, the author will ever claim some eonsidenUion for his good intention ; and if any one is in- clined to di predate his performanre, he is only disposed, in perfect good humour, to invite that person, to favor his fliow subjects with something more worthy of their notice, and better adapted to the circumstances of the times. None will ever be found more eager to receive instructioHf nor more ready to praise his instiuctor, than the Querist, Mo.NTiiEALj ICtbApniL, 1813. '•■•Obi... ir..«Mk, **<#Nfe'^*«li|Hl^3i*t'»W-»,.«^^#^^ •■•-■'"•■•- "**^w ( 3 ) N»I. INTRODUCTION. Montreal, 12th August, 1812. AT the present moment, when our Countr)' is menaced with in- vasion, every thinkiiii^ uinn roHocts with solicitude on our means of defence, and eagerly seizes every idea of strength and resistance, which the circumstances of the (Panadas sujji^est. After meditating on the std)ject, he natur-illy wisiies to talk it over with his friends, und lastly to communicate his thoughts to the public. This inclination is laudahle, and, in a certain degree, ought to be indulged ; f<»r, tliough an eagerness to appear in print may bring forward niucli useless matter or impertinent remark, it will, at least, have the effect of excitina^ a spirit of enquiry, into a subject parti- cularly interesting- to the community. Better informed writers may be expected io succeed those who first led the way, to avoid the er- rors incident to first attempts, supply their deficiencies, and thus gradual';' enlighten and rectify public opinion. At the. first appraranrr of difjiniUy and danger, the people are suhjtct to alarm ; they look anxiously around for information and direction, from their superiors in station, experience or knowledge ; let tlu-m not be disappointed, nor let such information and direction be confined to verbal remark ; the press is assuredly a fit and approv- ed medium of instruction. It may be said that the bulk of the community cannot «v/r/, and that the influeiice of the press, particu- larly in the Lower Province, is comparatively insignificant. But even the most ignorant inhabitants can hear ; and I will venture to affirm that if half the piiins had been taken to read gv>orf, that have been 'oiicy, have produced a wonderful eneroy and steadiness of conduct in supporting patriotic measures. No sooner are they convinced that the welfare and glory of their king and country are at stake, than they come forward, as one man, to pledge the last drop of their blood, the last guinea of their wealth, to uphold the common cause. Those fixed characteristics of Britons, forced upon the attention of other nations, by a long train of events, influencing^ the whole civilized world, have induced all wise governments to pause and reflect, before an appeal to arms. Experienced nations have consider- ed a long and painfid preparation requisite for a contest with Britain: zcell disciplined forces y by sen and land { well replenished magazines and arsenals ; well ordered finances, not to mention powerful allies, have been thought absolutely necessary to cope with her. It remained for the short-sighted government of the United States, to furnish to the world an instance of conduct diametrically opposite to such cautious policy, and to risk the ruin of their Country, by unprece« dented folly. With a handful of men they have dared to invade a Province belonging to an Empire whose naval and military power has hitherto set every external force at defiance ; whose fleets can, at the same time, bring every aid to its violated territories, and prevent Bny European ally of the United States from rendering them any material assistance. They have arrayed themselves against a power, that can sweep their commerce from the ocean ; while they talk of supporting the content by a revenue chiefly to be drawn from trade. But we have too much at stake, to allow us to spend time in reprobating the folly and criticising the conduct of our opponents ; weak and impolitic as they are, there is still a chance of their doing us infinite mischief, if we are not upon our guard ; and if we can but manfully ward off the impending blow, we shall serve ourselves better, than by any revenge which we might eventually obtain. In the present case, we are happily not reduced to conjecture ; but we have facts and experience to strengthen our confidence in the most decisive measures of the Parent State for our assistance ; and we are thus enabled to meet the exigencies of the Country with be- coming spirit. Many of us have even a personal recollection of th» circumstances of the former invasion. The same enemy, at that time, took the opportunity which the defenceless and unsettled condition of Canada affbrded, in order to endeavour to surprise or starve us into submission ; but, even with advantages physical, moral and political, which he would now look for in vain, he was driven from our soil with disgrace. The watchful guardians of the British Empire soon landed on our shores a powerful army, preventing even the threat of invasion during the rest of the war. iii*... i A « u ( 6 ) The inclination and tlie ability of Britain to Kupport us are equally certain : — the protection of (he (JanaUus will aHsiiredly b(^ considered ^i national object, bi/ all parties, and will, of course, lx» promoted with unanimity and vigour, proportioned to itu importance. Let UH therefore rely upon the combined efforts of the UritiHli navy and army, to render the present a short, though brilliant conteHt ; let us view its proj'ress with lirmness, nor doubt its favoraijle end. Thank Heaven ! no earthly power can impede the progross to our aid of her,' ^ " Whose march is o'er the mountain wafe." Great Britain, in the present contest, will ejjert her physical force with far greater advantage than in the former American war. She then put not forth half her strength against her rebellious colo- nists ; for the combined navies of France, Spain ai>d Holland were superior to hers, and she could not reckon upon the safe arrival of troops and supplies. But times are now rftan^rd; and having little dread of capture, we may even, indulge the hope that every requisite exertion may be made upon this new theatre, without lessening her ellbrts in the cause of humanity and European independence, in the Peninsula. Out of her vast military establishment would hardly be missed the few additional thousands necessary to place us in a com- plete posture of defiance, and to prevent the further interruption of our progress J in wealth and colonial importame. I shall conclude this number with expressing my confidence that we shall f'Mickly receive a reinforcement of ten thousand regular troops, which will enable us to keep the field with fifty thousand men, well appointed, and supplied by a Commissariat and subsidiary de- partments, directed agreeably to systematic arrangements, resulting from the long experience of the Parent State^ — We may farther ex- pect the powerful influence of a strong fleet, and many diversions in our favor on the American coast, with various expedients worthy of Britain, and well calculated to give fuU employment to hypocritical democrats, who may soon bitterly curse the hour, when tlioy vowed to march into Canada, in quest of balm for their wounded honor. :\ i N" III. Montreal, 23rd Septemder, 1&12. The internal resources of the Canadas, arising from the character of their population and institutions ; their local situation and other circumstances. In discussing this part of my 8,ubject, I ehail begin with the ■/r^i ( 7 ) port us arR frpiicli Cnntidians, i},f majority of our population ; and I shall first iisHurcdly b(i olnerve, that, tcilh the tisnal discipline^ tkeu would form a most ejji' i' course, Ih» ticnt reoular force, and, that, with the smallest degree of tuition^ thej/ importance, fvould become fit for partisan warfare. the RritiNh antcoutcHt; orablo end. ;ros3 to our ler physical erican war. lliouH colo- olland were a arrival of aving little ry requisite sseninif her ence, in the d hardly be i in a coin- jrruplion of fidc^nce that md rejrular >usnnd men, isidiary de- n, resulting farther ex- i versions in s worthy of lypocritioal licy voM'ed I honor. n, lfel2. 'le character and other 1 with the Their military spirit, so frequently signalised before their con- inectiun with Britain, has burst forth anew, on every return of dan- >|i'or; and that same devotion to King and Country, which animated ,tli(< fath(>rs to deeds of glory, cannot be found wanting in their sons. The genius, manners and employment of the French Canadian pre- ])arc him for the ready adoption of a military lite. He is fond of movement, pomp and show; lie subsists on little; and, when engaged in arduous pursuits, he submits, with udiuiruble fortitude, to tha greatest fatigue. Thus, cheered by their social boat songs, the North-West Voyageurs have navigated the ma jestic Saint Lawrence, for ages, securing to their employers and to their Country the envied beneiits of the Fur Trade. The philosophical observer, viewing these ex- ertions of the French Canadians, naturally considers that, in military pursuits, such iavorable habits and dispositions might be turned to the best advantage, by skilful leaders. But, viewing the majority as engaged in husbandry, we may flirther remark, that the cultivators of the soil have always been selected, in preference, to defend it. Men who practise the arts in towns, though, in fully peopled countries, often the readiest, are not the best materials for an army ; and nations, like the Swiss*, chiefly agricultural, have invariably produced, in proportion to their population, the greatest number oi serviceable troops. On such grounds, I ascribe to the French Canadians an aptitude for military enterprise ; and Inow with much deference, beg leave to suggest, that, of the great body of their militia, it may, in no probable circumstances, be advantageous to incorporate more than one sixth, for co-op(u'ation with British troops, in regular warfare. Though forming my opinions from general views and observations alone^ I will venture here to express my hopes, that our expected campaign may be planned, in such a manner, as to give a fair op- portunity to si Canadian levy «;? »?fw*r, to distinguish itself, in parti- san warfare. I should then anticipate many brilliant attempts on the part of our peasantry, employed to harrass the foe on his march, — to cut off his supplies, and finally thus to force him, half iumishedand exhausted, to retire "or fall before our regular army. Extraordinary circumstances naturally produce corresponding Ichnracter J 3 and we need fear no want of gallant leaders to the de- .^,-*. -*--*-*" H . ^ I I l[ l) ( 8 < fenderfl of their Country. I hope to behold Home nartiMin leader^ af the head of a band emulouH of the fume of the Spanish Guerillas, aometimes on foot, Hoinetimes mounted on hardy Canadian liorHOH, ranging the r^ountry, and harraHsing at all pointn, the invading force, — one moment surpriRinn; an advanced (ruard, — the next lalling on the baggage escort, and seizing the enemy s military chest, — tl losn uhich he would keenly fcul, and more heavily bewail than loss of honor, in the fields I trust that I shall not be censured for such sanguine expectation* from the services of a Canadian levy en masse ; for a similar force has often been the principal means of saving a country. Victory will eventually ever attend that side, to which the inhabitants of the theatre of the war may be favorable ; and, in the present case, par- ticularly, every rational and laudable motive stimulates the French Canadians to resist the invaders. They well know the honorable origin of Canadian population, which ha:? likewise been ever uniform- ly distinguished for attachment to King and Country ; and, in its gradual encrease, has received no external additions, of a doubtful character. The fact is, that the United States' Government have monopolised the importation of the outcasts of European society. Jefferson, tfie incomparable statesman, from fellow feeling, loved not only the treason but also the traitors; and, a? the Irish rebels said, God bless his honor! he made natives of them all. How fortunate that such firebrands never found an asylum here i At the present moment, a population less congenial than ours, would prove a source of weak- ness to the Canadas, and might possibly enable an invading army, a hundred thousand strongs " to look down all opposition." But of all our internal sources of resistance, none appears to me of greater importance than the firm attachment of the French Canadians to the Keligion of their fathers, and to its sacred ministers. That bulwark of their spiritual and temporal Welfare they will rally round in the day of danger ; the voice of those Pastors, who have watched night and day, with unceasing solicitude over their flocks, will not be heard in vain ; — it will inspire all with that heavenly ardour, which, in the virtuous cause, "smiles at the drawn dagger, and defies its point." If our beloved Country be invaded, and we, for a moment, be forced to give way, let our rallying points be our sacred temples, and the tombs of our brave ancestors yet unprofaned :— there, at the least, shall our cry be Death or Victory ! — nor can we hesitate an instant in making our election, to die and mix with kindred dust^ rather than live the victims of the oppressor'' s scorn, la considering the existing inbtitutionji of Canada, we cannot | 4 X ^Tlfr^jur^f^- leader^ af GueriiiaH, ian liorHflH, e invading ext tailing eat, — a loss lan I08B of xp(>ctation< milar force Victory tants of the case, par- the French honorable er uniform- and, in its a doubtful iment have san society. ^, loved not Is said, God te that such moment, a !e of weak- iding army, appears to the French d ministers^ y will rally I who havei heir flocks, it heavenly (Vn dagger, noment, be imples, and ere, at the hositate an idred dust^ ( l» ) hflp pcrcc'vinj; tli« iiKiikcd inlciilinii of Britain, to miikc hei-setf bi'lovi'd, rallicr l!i;m K';irc,l, In licr new nssociiiles in freedom. Th» rii^litsorct*ii blciKJed together; and the grateful opinion pervades the ; people, that their eondidon haw lon:^; been more respectable and happy * than Miat of any other Colojiists ancient or inodt>rn.. When Kiiropean conqyerors meditate an attack upon an enemy's Province, their einissarie-i precede tl\eni, and commonly find disaftec- tiou and discontent per\ iding the devoted land :— 'Grievances to be redressed; insults and injuries to he avenged; extortion to be punish- ed, have always been the means ofexciting emotions friendly to the invadinn- pouer. In fluiiada however no such causes, of weakness prevail. AM those intellio\'ut and respectable characters, wh(» deser- vedly lead the pid)!ic opinion, are averse to innovation as being fraught with danger; and, while they unaniujously ascribe the present prosf perity and respectability of the Country to its connection with the , Jh'ilish I']n)pire, they look forward to tiic like inviolable attachment, • as the ai k of safety to all they hold dear. ley IJut our internal strength and our attachment to Britain will not entirely dc))end on our sense of the superior security and privileges, Mhich we enjoy in respect of Ueljoion. A political constitution, form- ed upon the model of that of the Parent State, is the object of increas- ing afl'ectioii to us nil. With hojiest pride, wo regard it as a mark of the lov(; and conlidouce of a magnanimous, powerful and experienced people, who have raised us to the rank of brothers and sharers in the previous political inheritance of their fathers. And can it then be supnosed tiiat the ('anadas, the touch of whose very soil is destruction to slavery, will sink into the arms of American Slaveholders ? Sooner will the Canadians sink lifeless into the lap of earth, than submit to such degradation. They have long listened, with silent indignation, to the contemptuous sallies of Fredonian petulance; and they can put the proper construction upon offers of civilisation and freedom from the self-styled most civifiscd nation in the universe. The cimracter of the present overweening factious administration of the United State* is fully appreciated here ; and the luttientablu situation of the remaining French and Spanish population of Louisiana and East Florida^ has deeplty impressed the Canadians with a horror at the rcny idea of fra- ternisation or communion nuth unprincipled iandjobberSy and hungry dependents of a rapacious government. wa caanot a ( 10 ) Montreal, 7th OcTOBEn, 1812. Same Subject conlimud. Leaving the French Canadians, I now return to review tlie rei maining inhabitants of these Provinces, distinguishing tiiein into tho following classes : Worlhi/ descendants of fried hyafi'ls, cnjoi/infs; the homrahh rewards of their fathers^ fidelUtj : — lti<>;k-spirited (niipanls from the United Kingdoms^ nnxious to ii,ainiain the honor of their natixc land : And lastly^ Men, niio, bij deliheude choice, hace become the Subjects of the British Crovon, and art bound bi/ exert/ tic of interest and dutj/, to defend the Countrj/ of thci^- adoption. When we consult the annals of Great Britain, we have the satis- faction to find, that she has ever stood foremost among the powers of the world, as the fiiithful performer of all her engagements, both to foreign nations and to her own subjects. To every people worthy of her alliance or support, she has gene- rously furnished assistance; and in cases, when all other expedients employed in their favor have eventually failed, she has finally olTer- ed to the victims of loyally of every cllmcj an honorable asylum and means of subsistence, in her own dontinions. The chances of war, and a combination of circumstances hostile to British prosperity, having accomplished the indep«>nd<'nce of the British Colonies, now forming the United States of America, the British legislature and people, readily perceived and generously allow- ed, the claims of those determined loyalists who had lost their pro- perty and their homes, by adhering to the sacred cause of their King and country. Never were justice and true policy more strikingly displayed before an admiring world, than when Great Britain ex- pended many millions of her wealth, in proving to her sons, that unshaken loyalty, deserving of success, though unable to conmiand it, would inevitably obtain conspicuous acknowledgment and reward. She thus prepared the attachment, gratitude and admiration of suc- ceeding generations, and added more to the stability of her reputation and power, by t'.at single act of enlightened legislation, than by countless successes in M'ur. To those loyalists, wlu/«je habits and manners were accommodated to the new world, the Parent State offered an asylum and every en- couragement to industrious exertion, in her remaining North Auieri- 1812. the re^ into tlio lioimrahle from the land ! ubjccls of f sue* station liau hy >dated Jiieri- 1 f I ( H ) fcan Provincea ; and rtot less than Ten Thousand of those meritorious individnalKj most of whom had fought for their king, were reckoned in Canada, in 1784. Tliose venerable settlers, who still live to guide the efforts of their sons, in delence of the lionorable reivards of &ter- mined loyalty and persevering industry, ought to be considered, on the present occasion, as capable of rendering essential service to the conunon cause. Their clear recollection of past sutferings; their lively sense of present enjoyments; their gratitude, under Providence, to that benevolent nionarcli, the father oi his people, who patronised their claims, — all tend, in a peculiar manner, to stimulate the exertions of this class of our population in the defence of a Country endeared to them and to their children by the tenderest ties. The familiar siory of their lives has served to cherish a military spirit and a detes- tation of rebels, among their dhildreu and friends : and their expe- rience in war will prove a source of confidence, in the hour ofdangen How gratifying to all good subjects must be th6 spectacle exhibited by thoae brave vetei'ans, when they come forth surrounded by their sons, |)reparirig and exhorting them to defend all that Heaven and their own merits have bestowed ! Can we doubt of success to the efforts of veteran loyalists, directing the energies of their patriotic descendants ? But the hopes of the Country have other stays in times of diffi- culty. Let us take an exhilarating view of those high-spirited emigrants from the United Kingdoms, anxious to maintain the honor of their native land; — who, braving the dangers and inconveniencies ot a long Voyage and removal from the scenes of their early exertions, havei boldly sought in these favored Colonies, a ivider field to persevering industry, and a new theatre, calculated for the display of all that is valuable in the liritish cliaijcter. Laudable motives may surely be ascribed to the youthful votary of fiirtune, who directs his steps to a distant dependency of his native country, in preference to the terri- tory of a foreign power ; and we may safely expect unequivocal proof of his patriotic attaclunents, incase of emergency. 1 hat vigour of mind rccjuisite to induce a virtuous young man, of the above descrip- tion, to seek the new world, points hiiti out, to the skilful observer, as formed to engage in arduous enterprise and to pursue the objects of his choice with invincible energy. If we farther reflect, that British emigrants have generally their natural talents improved by useful knowledge, and that they actually compose many thousands of our most active population, we shall readily view them as an important part of internal strength. J-et me likewise remark that they are powerful means of preserving these Colonies and the Mother Co-intry, in the strictest bonds of union; for a circulation of population, main- tained between the Parent State and her Colonies, has always be \ considered absolutely necessary to their mutual happiiiess and pros- perity. B// such individuals- information cgarding (he existing cir^ { 12 ) tumstanr.es of Great BriUiin and of these Proxinrex is disseminated in ft thousand modes, and llie readiest and mast effectual means of reciprocal md become familiar on both sides of tin Allantie. But it is now time to sav a few words respectiii"- that portion of ICanadian population, which I have above descril)od as men, u/io, hy deliberate choice, have become subjects of the Jlritish Croicn, and are bound by every tie of interest and duty, to defend the Country of l/iejr adoption. The moderate proportion of inhabiliints, which forms the last mentioned class, have excUcd greater uneusiness in the bosoms of some well-meaning, natural borii IJritisli stibjects, than, 1 humbly toncfive, was required. When ukmi, in general, have deliberately taken up their residence in a State, to wliicli no fears of condign punishment, bat hopes of ameliorating their condition, have iiuluced them to repair; — when they have invested their money or the fruits of their industry in the soil, they naturally become interested in the improvement and welfare of their adopted Country. Besides, the influence of habit upon the human mind is universally acknov/ledgcd ; and hard and unfeeling must bi; that individual, who acquires no sympathy with surrounding objects. At all events, we know that «iich uncommon characters are viewed, by their neiglibours, with salu- tary jealousy ; and, in times of difliculty, are so narrowly watched, that they rarely dare to avow disaft'ection or even iiidiiVereuco. But, far- ther, the clearest convictions of the understanding and the bc>t feelings of the heart will induce jnost men to preserve their allegiance and to perform its duties to a government, like ours, so admirably exerted m affording to every subject scoijrily of person and property, and every encouragement to tlie employment of those talriits A^lsich dis- tinguish the useful Member of Society. 1 sliall tluMffore continue confident that a vigorous inspection on the part of our police, and the skilful application of the powerful principles of emulation, tear and hope, will cause disaffection to hide its head, or show itself only to be extirpated. Let me here sidijoin some remarks tipon apart of our population, which, from its anticipated importance, as a means of defence, par- ticularly in Upper Canada, ought not to have been omitted in my enumeration. I allude to the Indiana, that much injured race, wliose character seems of late to Iiave been as unjustly traduced, as it was unreasonably applauded half a century ago.— Instead of endeavouring to conciliate and improve them, the Cfnited States' (rov;M-nmeat wink at measures calculated for their uUor fixtermijiation. In the present state of our relations with that unpriiuipk-d administration, we sliould take advantage of the .latural disaffection of the Indian tril)es, aiul ndopt some plan for their organisation, in such a manner as would render thorn truly foruiidable to their rapacious toes. Tiieir first approach to a ciVili/ed state, compatible with their natural inde- pendence, must arise from the combination of several Tribes under k hnteti in H [cciprocai orti'on of TC'/lO, l/j/ c/id are of t/ieir <>rnis the bosoms humbly liberately condign induced fruits of / ill the ides, the vledood ; uires no ow that ith salu. lied, that Jut, far- • feeh'ngs e and to exerted ity, and iich dis- -ontinue and the fear and only to ( 13 ) «6me jlble leader ; and is it not probable that the Chief, called the Prophet, may be enabled to begin that great work ? It is well known that when the confederate Tribes were partly extirpated, partly driven from their Country, by General Sullivan, during the American war, they had made very material advances in the arts of life, particularly in husbandry. If Great Britain should generously afford an asylum, in her territories, to the oppressed Indians, she might not merely be enabled, in the meantime, to form a necessary barrier against the ra- pacity of American Lai»d-jobbers ; but she might eventually have the glory of promoting the civilization of an interesting portion of the human race. Since hostilities have commenced, we have had recent experience of the invaluable service which the Indians are capable of performing. Their peculiar dexterity, in bodily exercises \ their presence of mind and ready invention, in time of danger ; their perfect knowledge of the forest paths and defiles, fitting them for being partisans, messen- gers and guides, — those and many minor qualifications render them no mean acquisition in the present contest. As to the hypocritical exclamations of our enemies against our associating the Indians with ourselves in mutual defence, the best answer is found in the nervous language of the brave General Brock, in reply to General Hull's exterminating proclamation : " By what " new principle are they (the Indians) to be prevented from defending " their property ? If their warfare, from being different from that of " the white people is more terrific to the enemy, let hira retrace his " steps ; thcT/ seek him 1101" N° V. ion. ul.1t p, par- in my whose i it wa,s ouriiig It wink nesput sliould E's, and would r first inde- under MoNTHBAL, 21st OcTOBER, 1812. Same subject continued. In every consideration of our internal means of resisting threatened invasion, the local situation of our Country is worthy of particular regard. * I must here, at the outset, confess my want of a personal know- ledge of Canadian topography ; but, having paid the strictest attention to the casual remarks of others upon that important subject, I will venture to make a few general observations. Let me however, in the first place, premise, that, while Great Britain is mistress of the ocean; the United States' |°^overnment can ( 14 ) Only attacti us upon one side ; consequently, the reduction of the Canadas, by their present sovereign, affords little encouragement to the expected attempt. As to the overrunning of the territory which now forms Lower Canada, during the former American war, it Wag evidently facilitated by causes entirely teuiporary, and unlikely ever to return. At that deplorable period, when this valuable Colony Was, for some mouths, exposed to the ungovernable rapacity and brutal licentiousness of a turbulent foe. Governor Carleton was unable to occupy those important posts on our frontier ; of which the res- pectable body of regulars and armed population now at command, will enable our present Chief to take advantage. The Isle aux Noix, now rendered a complete bar to invasion, by the way of Lake Cham- plain, was then quietly pitched on, by the rebels, as their place of rendezvous ; whence Proclamations and Circulars, models for those of all future invaders, upon similar principles, were spread through the Country. None of the common precautions of breaking down bridges, destroying roads and blocking up passes could be taken ; nor had there been time to enjoin and facilitate t!ie removal of any part of the grain, cattle and effects of the Colonists, out of the reach of the enemy, who devoured the wealth ofhiafriendsj and Wasted the property of the rest. Very different will be our circumstances and exertions, in the expected invasion. PFe have every reason to believe that the whole extent of our frontier has beeti carefully explored ; that, in the proper departments, are deposited numerous and correct Maps, Plansj and Memoirs, so essentially requisite for the skilful planning and conducting of a campaign ; that, as far as can be done, without weakening the main tody, detachments zoill be sent to occupy and defend the most important stations and defiles ; and, in short, that cccry expedient will be employed to increase the local impediments to invasion. Aware of my want of official information, I tremble at the thought of descending to particulai-s ; but 1 still feel an irresi-stible impulse td communicate a few ideas, which have insensibly crowded upon me, since I took up my pen. I mean to confine my view to what might possibly take place on our frontier, and to what seems practicable in case the enemy, con- trary to expectation, should reach the southern bank of the Saint Lawrence, in the Lower Province. Giving thereforej for a moment, my fancy tlie reirij I will sup- pose, that, no sooner shall we have intelligence that the enemy is advancing to menace our lines, than strong detachments for observa^ tion, chiefly composed of Militia and Indians, will appear, fully pre- pared to impede the progress of the foe : — every bridge and road will be destroyea ; and every footpath rendered impracticable b/ fareei war, It in the! whole proper i and » ( 15 ) felled and lying with their boun;li8 interweavedl. Sliould the enemy attempt to cut his way throiij;h tlie woods, the same scouriu" parties will continually harrass his working detachments and their guard : — lurking behind every bush will lie a wily Indian or Rideman, taking sure aim undisturbed ; and, after killing his man, bounding swiftly and unperceived to another post, in pursuit of his game. A few active leaders, inspiring such parties with enthusiasm, will quickly enable the whole Country to appear, night and day, in unceasing hostility. While the invaders will be thus kept at bay, the faithful inhabitants, fully aware of the character of their foes, will be employing every minute which they can spare from defence, in removing (jr concealing their eftccts ; the distance of the place of deposit being always pro- portioned to their expectations of the ability of the enemy to advance into the Country, For such deposits, in case no fortified posts are at hand, some of tiie parish-churches must eventually be employed; and, if the unprincipled invaders, in pursuit of plunder, dare to violate those sanctuaries of the national faith, the surrounding popu* lation will unanimously urge to be led to instant revenge. Harassed in the manner above described, the enemy must issue from the woods, weakened with loss and fatigue, a fit object of im- mediate attack to a strong detachment of fresh troops, from the main body ; and it M'ould not be extraordinary, if such an attack should, at once, prostrate his hopes, make him abandon his ground entirely and endeavour to escape. At all events, our chief cares will be, to make use of all our knowledge of local advantage. .i, in order to pre- clude his commanding any more of our Country, than that on which he- may be encamped, and to surprise or cut oft' every detachment from l^is main body, for plunder or forage. Among the various chances of war, it frequently happens that an invading army advancing into a Country, with which their Gene- ral is not fainilar, will fall into an ambuscade; and, in such a case, we can readily imagine the dreadful confusion and probable destruc- tion, which a daring attempt on the part of our Militia and Indians would produce. Nothing but long habit could prevent the enemy from being appalled at the horrid yells of the Indians ; and these being followed by 9 spirited charge of the bayonet and tomahawk, must complete their confusion, rout and destruction. It seems of th' ntmost importance, on a first aggression, to take every advantage of our situation, and to strike a terror into our adversary, at once ; for, if the first opportunity be neglected of attacking the foe, after his harassed and fatiguing march, through our marshes, woods and defiles, we shall not, for some time, have such a superiority of circumstances over him. He will then have time to look around and take precautions 3 and we shall be obliged to ' ( 16 ) employ new expedients to break his spirit and prepare him for defeat^ But, though from such a celebrated Chief as commands us, we may expect every display of dexterity in taking all those advantages which time and place may afford; though we may hope, that every stroke of generalship, every manceuvre of tactics will be employed, to keep the enemy from the interior, it will still be proper to prepare our minds for something more arduous, and to consider what seeniJ^ practicable, against hiu), in case, contrary to expectation, he should reach the southern bank of the Saint Lawrence, in the Lower Pro- vince. In such a case, how could we prevent his crossing the river ? It is obvious, that this could chiefly be done by armed boats, floating batteries, and such means of annoyance. Indeed I shall hardly con- sider our Government seriously alarmed, until 1 perceive the most vigorous exertions, to equip a flotilla, for river-service; and, when I consider the number of men in the Country, habituated to the navigation of the Saint Lawrence, I look forward to their labours, under skilful leaders, as an invaluable resource to the Canadas, iu the day of danger. In no situation do I expect more certain destruction to an Ame- rican armv, than in an attempt to force the passage t>f our nohlt river, which, I trust, as it is a natural ornament, may likewise be rendered a means of defence to our beloved Country. Let the ene-? my only be kept upon the farther side of the Saint Lawrence, and he will be able to do us comparatively little harm; for such is the existing spirit of the Province, that the inhabitants woiiid remove, ■with all tneir substance, to the hither side of the river, leaving the enemy alone in a desert, Hill opportunity offered to di'ive him entirely fi*om our soil. While reflecting upon the advantages to be derived from the local situation of the Canadas, we are led to advert to the character and conduct of its first European masters : — th?y might be called the natural rivals and enemies of the neighbouring Colonists ; and they ■were accordingly unwearied in devising means to annoy them. What our predecessors did fro.n views of ambition and conquest, we may be reasonably expected to do, in self-defence. Let us not therefore disdain to imitate the conduct of the i;kilful officers of the greatest monarchs of the Bourbon race. Let us take for granted, till experience contradict it, that all those posts and positions which history or tra- dition informs us were chosen and fortified by French Engineers are not unworthy of attention. Making allowance for the change of circumstances, the history of all the French campaigns in this Country, and, particularly, that of their last, might furnish the most iuipvrtanit lessons to the defenders. i "or defeat^ Is us, we Jvaiitagea at every mployetJ, o prepare at seenN le should O'er Pro- le river ? floating rdly coii- tiie niotit >fl, when d to the labours, nadas, iu an Ame- ur nobt^ ewise be the ene- nce, and :h is the remove, vinj;; tho entirely the local cter and lied the iiid they What * may be herefore greatest jerience or tra- cers are uige of ountry, pvrtaiU ( n ) N" VI. MoNTiiEAL, 6th November, 1818* Same Subject continued. Having nowreviewed the character c'' the population and insti- tutions, as well as the local advantages of the Canadas, I shall brief- ly advert to those articles of their produce which are necessary for the aubsistance of the inhabitants, and likewise to those which may be rendered subservient to their defence, during the war. Though the United States' government have failed in their scheme of overrunning this Country or reducing it by a coup de main ; and, though the chances of war nave been hitherto favoraole to our sacred cause, let not success lull us asleep, but rather rouse us to act with double energy, in making every preparation for vigorous resistance. After the late base ronduct of our enemt/ to the friendlj/ Province of £ast Florida^ we should, both in peace and in war, consider him as ever on the watch for an opportunity to subdue usy b^ force or intrigue. Impressed with such ideas of the necessity of unceasing vigilance and jealousy, I consider the sliglitest allusion to the resources deriva- ble from our Agriculture, our Fisheries, Forests and Mines, as worthy of the attention of ail good subjects. But, upon this important topic, few private individuals can be expected to be minutely inform- ed. The eminent task of investigating, encouraging, directing and extending the industry, trade and resources of this Country is worthy of the labours and patronage of its enlightened administration. For my part, I confess that I am particularly unprepared to discuss this subject in the manner J could wish; and I feel myself obliged to confine my remarks to a very narrow range. I shall begin by observing that our feneray will happily be disap- pointed in his expectation of quickly starving us into submission. Were Great Britain indeed under the necessity of supplying her colonists and soldiers, in the Canadas, with imported provisions entirely, as she has done the inhabitants and armies in Portugal, starvation might eventually stare us in the face and, backed with a large army, might " look down (ill opposition." But if we continue true to ourselves, we can hardly fail to prevent our Country from being overrun and the enemy's being ^^ fed from its resourcts.^^ The spirit which pervades the whole population will preclude tlie invaders from tommanding more of our ground than " the extent of their bauouets .•" and, while our disposable population seems amply sufficient tor all the purposes of co-operation iu defence, the rest may, by the judicious ( 18 ) Rfrangements of the Commander in Chief, be enabled to continue^ Ivith casual interruption, the cultivation of the soil and the avocati- ond connected with the subsistence and defence of the community. In examining a subject like the present, it seems proper to allude to the general course of things and to i)ass by casual devmtions. Our late defective crop is a misfortune whicli \ye have reasO!i to trust will not be again experienced for several years ; and my observations will be more useful when adapted to the average and ordinary produce of our bountiful soil, leaving it to the judgment of my readers to make the allowance for casualties. Considering accordingly that our ilsuai crops have frequently enabled us to export half a million of bushels of grain, exclusive of large quantities of flour, we may surely hope, that^ though even ten thousand men were withdrawn from agricultural pursuits, and em- bodied for service during the war, a suflicieut number would still remain to raise subsistence for the whole. 1 trust that it will excite the most strenuous exertions of the Canadas to raise abundance of provisions for the provinciiil corps, at the least ; and that, if im- portations must take place, they may be chiefly for the supply of the British regular troops ; this would be a striking proof of the spirit of the whole population ; and the accomplishment of such an important tbject seems likc/j/ to he promoted by local attachments and partialities^ influencing the bulk of mankind,, as xselt as by that enlarged patriotism which distinguishes the more enlightened menibers ofsoc.ietij. The desul- tory service of the country people will seldom require a regular supply of provisions: those I'lrdy fellows will carry many days' nourishment in their hayersacs, prepared at their homes, with a care and ceconomy elsewhere impracticable. 1 shall next observe, that the present circumstances of the Couu" try seem to require some changes in the agricultural routine of the iniuibitants. It being now of the greatest consequence to raise a sufficiency of vegetable food, fin- our internal supply, and to guard against casualties, we ought lo diversify our crops, and particularly to appropriate an extraordinary extent of soil to the raising of po- tatoes, the most serviceable of all the farinaceous roots. It is a well known fact, tliat the produce of an acre, planted with potatoes, will nourish four times the number of men that the crop of an acre sown with wheat woif/d do, and J therefore believe that it would only be common prudence to increase the cu'tivalion ofpotntoes two-fold during this war. The!'ttoii(ion of {lio neasrtutry should likewise be directed to the raising of animal food, particiihirly pork, a favorite aliment, in this couutrv, habitually UHi'd among our troops; and, by the smallness of its bulk, peculiarly fitted for transport, either by land or water. If our inhabitants could only be persuiuhd of the "importance attached to potatoes and jjork, in' many Countries, particularly in Ireland, ( 19 ) they would view those valuable article§ of provision in their tru© light, rendering uh independent ol' our neighbours, with respect to subsistence, and affording a new object of export to the West Indies. But, farther, when we look around we must be struck with the spontaneous bounties of nature in this new Country, in which many sources of supply have been almost neglected. Without the aid of the Sister 'Provinces, we might assuredly draw one fourth of our subsistence from the waters, whicli, at diil'erent seasons of the year, swarm with salmon, shad, trout, bass, white-Ksh. &c. all excellent of their kinds ; and, if we extend our view to the Labrador coast and to the Gulph of the St. Lawrence, we shall find reason to expect an inexhaustiDle supply of cheap nutritious food, in every emergency. Nor, in peaceable timen, does the game of our forests contribute sub- sistence to its utmost ability : — our Voyageur corps and partisans may be expected to avail themselves of that resource, in its proper season. All persons who have resided in the North West Country have been, often reduced to live chiefly upon the game and fish which they might obtain by their personal exertions ; and, being thus habituated to providing food for themselves, we may therefore anticipate their easy subsistence, great part of the year. In like manner, tne Indians will kill and catch in abundance, requiring very little food from us, except perhaps on a march. After the above glance at our internal means of subsistence, I trust that my readers will allow that starvation may be kept at bay ; I shall therefore, now add a few observations upon the important sup- plies of Timber which our forests will contribute ; these along with, our iron and hemp being the articles most subservient to our defence. In the first place we might, in case of necessity, build a river flotilla from such indigenous sources, having every requisite except canvass which is not indispensable. Timber is likewise of great im- portance in fortification ; and the refuse of our forests will heat the furnaces, employed in our camps and forts for military purposes, as well as defend our fire-sides irom the rigours of the climate. In short, with the wood, iron and hemp produced by this Country alone, we might prove formidable to our foe ; for in the hands of the inge- nious and brave, those would assume a thousand shapes of annoyance. But, thank heaven I we are not reduced to depend upon Canadian resources for munitions of war. Our Parent State has oeen gradual- ly forming depots at Quebec and other posts, upon the most respec- table scale ; and it is probable that the exertions of the Provincial founderies will be connned to the making of a few unimportant mi^ litary articles, in addition to their accustomed operations. C3 -v,*>» ( 20 ) To foncUidp, all those intrrnni rosonrcos must be trrndiinllT developed and eiuployrd, according to cirouniHtanccs; and the full advantas^'H derivable tVom them cun onlv arise (iom the conHtant eiicourajrement and protection of tiie internal trade of tiie ('onntry. If the circnlation and the exchange of prodnc*' Ix'tween both Pro- vinces, or between diff<'rent parts of each Provinec be impeded, the inhabitants will experience nuich inconvenience and loss. A free circulation of produce is the jrenenil advanta^-e of a Country ; and as the principal means of procurinj; that blessinsj; we look forward to a powerftd protection of tne intercourse between both Provinces by the Saint Lawrence.* N° VII. MoNTllEATi, 2jth NoVKMnEIl, 1812. The repulation and tnlenls of our Governor General ; — his exten- sive aulhorilt/ in times of i/un(^rr ,• his hiow/ti/^c of the Country and of the i^enius of its inhabitants y and his sagacity in selecting fit cha- racters, to execute his designs. The immediate cause of the superiority of one country over ano- ther is frcouently foinid in tiie reputation and talents of him who commands its resources : and history furnishes abundance of proof that the power and gh»ry of a peonle have been often entirely owing to the merits of their Chief. At all events, I may safely aftirm, that the subjugation of most coimtries, narticularly in the present age, has arisen more from the weakness, iV>lly and misconduct of their rulers, than from any want of such means of resistance as he who is truly great in the cabinet and in the (ield will successfully employ. The romantic Country of Swiaserland, long the object of admira- tion and delight to the philosophical observer and friend of humanity, fell, from its hi^h estate, into the afulph of French vassallage, by the cowardice and incapacity of its rulers. In worthier hands, the bra- very of its inhabitants and the many advantages of its local situation would have formed an effectual barrier against sudden invasion ; and the generous aid of friendly powers, particularly of Britain, would have eventually secured the existence of the state, with all its ancient and endeared connections. In reflecting therefore upon our means of resistance, we cannot rest satisfied with contemplating the passive resources of our Country j * See note A at the cod. ^ ]■" i^riiHiinllr the full coMHtant 'ountrj. oth Pio- derf, the A free ly; and •ward to iiceH hy ( 21 ) but wPanxioiiHly turn oureyefl upon him, wlin in authorifled to call them all iiHo action : — wp dwrll upon the prereding evenls of his life, and rai>^erly anticipate from the puxt and the present the future effccta of hiH invaluable quulitii 8. With what inoxnrrs^iblo pleaHure do we now peruse the hiHtory of his military career, connuencini; with his youth, and increasing in brijfhtness withhi:-; years! With what Hntistaction do we read the nc- countfl of hi8 recent administration in Nova Hcotia ; the shortness of which can never prevent its ft>rniing an u?ra in the history oC the ini- provenipnt of that risinfr ('ountry ! But his present high station has unfolded still farther the resources of his mind, and secma destined to give full play to the energies of hia character. We witnessed his unwearied anxiety, before the war, to promote every laudable enterprise ; and we then looked forward to years of rapiti advancement in wealth and colonial importance. Hut, on his part, that sa«^acity peculiar to genius, ana that foresight and vigilance, which distinsruisli tiie practiswl statesman and wan '.or, were quickly exerted in gradual preparation for defence. His equity and impartiality gained the confidence, while his affability and attention acquired the iove of the Colonists; and his whole influence was suc- cesfully employed in proving to the inhabitants of every description, that he was resolved to practise the benevolent policy of his royal master, to whom all his faithful subjects are equally dear, and alike the objects of his paternal solicitude. The consequences that invariably result from' such conduct are now present to our view ; M'c behold allfuU of confidence and strength arising immediately from a well understood union of interest in the defence of the Country. Those internal jealousies which encouraged our adversary to attempt our ruin have gradually disappeared ; the combined effects of an enlightened policy and the danger of a foreign yoke, intolerable to all who have tasted of British rights, have sud- denly made us a military people, '* fVith hcartii resolv'd, and hands prcpar'd " The UetHin^f , we enjoy, to guard." When the actual invasion of the Lower Province shall take place, and, in consequence military law be proclaimed, our vigorous govern- ment will be advantageously contrasted with that of our enemy. Then indeed will the whole powers of our Governor's mind find exertion in a field as extensive as a British subject can desire. The whole weight and responsibility of government will be upon him ; nor will they prove too heavy a burthen. This extensive aulhoriti/, in timea of danger^ is both the touchstone of transcendent merit, in its possessor, and the means of bringing for- *, ( 22 ) waH, with the grcatent eflect, the whole ntrenffth and resourcen of a Country. In Hiich caHes however the tute ot'the people is necesHvrily involved in the fortune of their chief; and their whole moveninnU are inipregued with hiH character : — obedient to his will and example, prudence or ranhneaH will prevail ; vigilance or remisHneHH will exist. Raised to the pinnacle of power, if a Chief waste the spirit of the Country, in operations of momentary splendour, he niiiHt iind it deficient wnen the grand work of defence should be performed; if he forget that his glory should consist in the result of the operations of a whole campaign, not in some partial interrupted gleams of success, which may only serve to lure him to his doom, — he will justly be con^ sidered as triHing with fortune and needlessly multiplying the chances of war. Such is the conduct of inexperienced comuianacrs, aspiring to premature &nie. But I feel happy at the idea, that, when invested with all the authority which the existing circumBtniices of time and place can re- quire, our Governor General tcill unifoniih/ dhplntj all that wlf-con- trouly which should dislhi^uish him who is entrusted with the defence of a valuab/e population^ slowly accumulated under all the difficulties of colonisation in a Countru whose rigorous climate debars them from commerce and almost from every advantage of agricultural txertiom during half the year. Though authorised to call forth every mau capable of bearing arms, and to employ him, as he may choose, in inuitary operations, be will reflect, with the solicitude of a parent, upon the peculiar circumstances of different members of his immense family, and will never make their burthens heavier than they can l)ear. The best blood in the Country, flowing at his command, will be spar- ingly drawn ; and he will not despise the counsel of the warlike king oiMorven, to a son worthy of his sire : *' Seek not the battle, nor thun it when it comes." N" VIII. Montreal, 9th. December, 1812. Same Subject continued, " Success in war chiefly depends upon the abilities of the general ; on his knowledge of the situations which he occupies, and on the art which he displays in taking advantage of the ground, either by pre- venting the enemy from obtaining favorable posts, or by securing to himseff the spots best adapted for his own designs." Such are the terms in which Frederic the Great speaks of the S^swr ircM of a ecesMf rily menu are ffxuniplo. noHH will p npiiit of si liiul it ed; it' he "ations of f BUCceNS, y be con- e chances aspiring (h nil the e tan re- f self-con- fefeuce of icuilies of cm from ( txertioH vpry mau loose, iu » parent, inuiionse can l)ear. be spar- like king 1812. general J- the art hy pre- iring to of tho ( 23 ) itiestiitiabtc importnnce of the kno\vlfd|^ of a Country^ in the General entrntited M^ith it8 defence, I may therefore be Huffered to avow thi) great coiiHolation which I draw, in these tiraeR of danger, from mj conviction, that our Governor han a perfect knowledge of this Country, an well aH of the genius of its inhabitants. Possessed of all that previous acquaintance with our situation and our wants, which his early recollections and habitual studies supplied, he came to our (JountrV) solicitous to illustrate, by personaf expe« rience, the ideas which he had formed of our local ana political cir- cuniHtaiices. Traversing our extensive domains, with tne eye of a general and a statesman, he has viewed every part, enquiring and examining for himxelf. What our invaders can only have read or heard of, lie personally knows ; while they must throw themselves, at first, in a great measure, upon fortune, he will play a surer game, and have many advantages in his favor. Ignorance of the Country will divest the enemy of hali his courage ; he will tremble at every step, and, particularly during night, will be haunted with imaginary dangers. What advantage will not our accomplished Chief draw; from all those causes of debility in our foes I He will harass them, and increase their perplexities, by unceasing attacks upon every side, and fatigue the whole with a rourth of their number. Whenever an American General^ in the accustomed mode, may renew jtfie attempt upon our frontiers, the least he can expect is the fate- or Braddock or Saint Clair ; whose history might deter any prudent officer from rashly advancing to violate our territory. Indeed nothing but the scheming character of our foes could account for their conduct, during the present war< That same temerity which marked the conduct of many American individuals^ in commercial pursuits, while residing in Canada, has likewise displayed itself in their military enterprises. In both instances, their imaginations out-ran their judgments; the trader found bankruptcy instead of fortune ; the general, instead of conquest, found defeat. In both instances likewise, their wily oppo- nents stood bv) in comparative security, waiting events, having little more to do, than to take advantage of their blunders, and! dextrously entangle the intruders \ii their own snares. Canada has doubtless been a dangerous field to American enterprise^ both in commerce and in war ; and experience, in both cases, must be dearly purchased : — fortunes half made, and laurels half wonf are all that they could ever boast of. Those military characters alone, who shall fight and bleed upoif our soil or pass through our Country, as cajitives, can acquire even a superficial acquaintance with our local circumstances ; and even when such men shall grow romantic enough to undertake to tiaversc, as conc^uerors^ that ground which they have already trodden as pri- ( 24 ) doners, they will still luoour under great dlsadvantaiEifes. The face of this Country, the nature of its roads and the statu of its rivers are subject to sudden and important changes, from its peculiar climatei with the effects of whicti our Governor is quite familiar. lioads, rivers and marshes, which are passable at one season of the year, become impassable at another ; and this alteration happens often to them all, in a single night. Many a fool-hardy American has been frozen to death or drowned in this Country, while the sagacious natives invariably escape such *' moving accidents by flood and field.'* We may rest assured that our intelliffent Chief will reap every benefit from our formidable ally,- the Canadian climate, which will (particularly in a Winter campaign) dispatch as many foes ae reg :]ar wartare. The Indians and the Voya^ geurs will likewise be ordered out upon snow-shoes, to catch them in their flight, as they catch the swiftest animals entangled in the snow ; and nothing but remissness on our part can possibly) in such circumstances, allow a single enemy to escape* The more I reflect upon the unconquerable obstacles to the ** victorious progress " of any invader of this formidable Country, the more deeply am I impressed with the idea, that a fatality attends the American schemers of conquest; — defeat and disgrace seem destined for them upon our plains; and our soil seems appointed to fatten on their bloodr A periodical evacuation of that kind may be absolutely necessary, in a feverish democracy, in order to prolong its permitted existence; and Canadians will not disobey the apparent mandate of Heaven, to apply the lancet and mitigate a disease, for which no remedy could be found elsewhere, Canada, though furnishing no balm/or wound d honour^ may, by a little blood-letting, and a short cooling regimen, relieve the fantastic s of the 6ra/», before the ic9 break up and the roads become unpropitious fur exploratory adven- turers. Great however as are the acknowledged advantageg of that perfect knowledge of the Country, which I have ascribed to our Governor General, I consider them interior to those which will accrue from hia knowledge of the genius of its inhabitants. The military coup'd' leil^ the merely physical knowlet'.'^e is more easily obtained, and requires less natural talent, than the more dIfiicuU science of national character j and, when both are combined in any Chief, we may truly say, " he i$ himself an host." Without pretending to explain by what means Sir GEondB Phevost has acquired his knowledge of the French Canadian cha- racter, we can all perceive the fact. It is obvious that he is no igno- rant pretender, and that lie perfpctly know- their habits^ and how they should be treated. Their luereditary peculiahtiss are not yet «f« the fac« rivers are r cliiiiatei lioadsy the year, i often to r drowned ;ape such ured that able ally; lampaign) theVoya- tch them sd in the in such es to the untry, the ttends the 1 destined fatten on ibsolutely permitted landate of which no ishing no 1 a short ■e the ice •y adven- at perfect Governor i from his requires haracter j K> " he ia GeorGe diau cha- no igno- and how »t yet efo \ ( S5 ) meed by a chanjje of cirrumstanrcs and of government ; and the dignified bill patcnidl condt^sdendence of tlie Bourbons is, by him, snccessfuily iuutated, and (bund congenial to the feelings of the chil- dren of Noriniiudy. Tiiat iiiiiiiv(?(l solicitude of the Bourbon race, to be loved hj/ their suhjccts ami J'litrcd by their neighbours, is evident- ly a characleristicj M'hicli the French tjauadiaus are rejoiced to per- ceive in their governuient ; and, im they have always been united to powerful nations, they have invaiiubly cherished a corresponding self-esteem. On such grounds, 1 liave often ventured to assert, that no part of the King's sul)jects, in Caiuida, would more powerfully Second the elforts of the Provincial Administration to strengthen the Country, than the F'reuch Canadians, provided it could gain their confidence. Now that point seems liappily gained ; and accordingly, at the present moment, none seems more prompt to hurl defiance at bur foes, thsln the sprightly ('anadian. In the Militia-service, he has^ to be sur^j been a good deal humored and suffered to talk, sing and dance, in his usual way; the endearing modes of address : " M^n enfant^ rrntn frere, mon tinii,^^ &c. are scrupulously preserved ; his native officers and habitual patrons are approved in treating him Avith all that mildness and wininng solicitude for his welfare, which his fch racter, formed generally by extraordinary parental indulgence, requires. The (Canadian, however, now obeys the word of command given in English ; he marches and dances to British music ; and, in short, le gradually acquires all those (jualities which are calculated to-render him useful and agreeable to his associates in British free- dom i But It secondai^y advantage^ as to the great t'aiise of defence, arising from the Governor's knowledge of the genius of the French (Canadians, is the useful information^ which he is thus enabled to obtain from that important part of our papulation. A sense df duty, or of interest alone, is hardly sutlicitint to bring them readily for- ivard : much dddress may be required ; and nothing but that i;'des- t'ribable attention and intore-ting nuuiner, tht> attributes of few, will succeed in securing the ind r.itig'a' cll\)rts of the Canadian observer, jndeeld the quicik sensibilitv an:l uatival fire of tiio Canadian render nice observation and mucli cxperioice absolutely necessary in hisi Rucceasful Itlader ; whose presen;e ul mind and fertility of invention 1»ill bs continually employed in tin uinj; to advantage the disposition of his nieni Oar Veteraii loyalists, IJritisli Settlers and their descendantPj though differently^ seens no less sagaciously treated by our duel'. Vie^Ving them as deservedly prjud of the name of Britons and de- fenders of British rights, lie enters into no eKplauations ; but, sig- nificantly pointing to the front of battle, he accompanies the gcsturrf ificantly pointing to the front ot hattle, he accompanies with a few emphatic ■voids, suitable to the oc'.«as 'ii. i) ( 26 ) But that same knowledge of the human heart, and of national character, which modifies his conduct and regulates his confidence, with regard to the French Canadians, Loyalists, JJritish Settlers and their descendants^ erabling him to employ, wiiii success, their uncon- querable efforts in defence of their (Country, makes him probably view the individuals, recently emigrated from the United States, with painful anxiety. The most that the liberal-minded can say in favor" of that portion of our population must be of a negative description : — our enemies have avowedly depended so much upon assistance to be received from their countrymen established anion^ us, that it seems almost impossil)le to discard suspicion and to view them as contribut- ing, in any degree, to the strength of the Canadas, in the present contest.* N° IX. MoNTREAT., 23rd December, 1812. Same Subject continued. irt reflecting upon the important qualities of our Governor General, so intimately connected with our means of resisting the threatened invasion, we are naturally led to estimate highiy " his " sagacitj/ in selecting fit chonicters, to execute his designs.'^ The Governor's possession of this talent, is readily inferred from that knowledge of the genius of the inhaliitants, which we have already proved his Excellency to possess; but its exercise is materially mo- dified by the local and political circumstances of every iiritish colony, and particularly by those of the Canadas. The necessary dependence of every Colony upon the Parent State renders the government of the former essentially subordinate ; and the whole of its measures must necessarily be influenced and actuated by the general policy and inteiv'^sts of the supreme adminis- tration. I'rom the clearest ma\ ns of Political G'lcononiy, as illus- trated by the practice of the wisest nations, the principal olHcers, civil and military, particularly in the executive branch, are appointed or approved by the administration of the Mother Country. Thus the immediate organs of communication between the chief and the su- bordinate governments are rendered as congenial as possible; and the best means are systematically employed to insure reciprocal confi- dence and utility. * Sec Nute B at the en4. r national mfidciice, ttlers aiui ir uncuii- probably ates, with y ill favor ici'iptioii : istaiico to t it seems ontribut- ic present > 1812. Governoi' istinj^ the ^hiy " /lis 7s." The from that i^e already iaily nio- sh colony, lie Parent ordinate ; need and adniinis- as illus- I officers, ippointed Thus the i the su- ' ; and the cal conii' ( 27 ) But the poculiar circntnstinicos of the risinff Colonies of the Ca- nadas, situated in t!ie inuiiediale vicinity of independent States, havQ been a farther indnconieut to t!io IJritish G(»vernment, to employ every expedient in order to seciin' that important portion of its do- minions and to attach it stroii«;;ly to tlie Parent State. The intended effects of such wise policy will be completely obtained, by the ap- j)ointment of men of distinguished talents and reputation to colonial situutiouu. Notwithfitandinj^ all such restrictions and controlling forms, the powers of our Covernor General in ap|)ointn)ents to offices, civil and inilitarj, are really extensive*, particularly in cases of emergency, when unlimited confidence, for a certain time, s necessarily placed in all his nominations and recoaunendations. Without pretending to share in the confidence of the executive, let me here be permitted to hazard a (few observations upon the ap- parent and probable course of our Governor's policy, in his appoint- ments to civil and military employments. Passing by what had been done by his predecessors (which he w'ould not lightly undo) it seens obvious, that natural born British Subjects have been the merited but not the exclusive objects of his confidence and patronage. When he found naturalised subjects long possessed of places of trust and reputed worthy of their situations, those men of merit and talents readily acquired his confidence and esteem ; and tlie history oft'ie Country would fully evince to his un- prejudiced mind that eminent abilities of foreign growth ha,d, in various circumstances, been employed with success in its preserva- tion and iinprovenieiit. — Every foreigner who has fought in the ser- vice of the jJriti>!h Goverriiuont is, of course, an object of its protec- tion ; aud, along with his descendants, has a legitimate claim to the confidence of our Cliief. In peaceable times likwise, the circumstances of these Colonies rendered places of pnifit rare and comparatively unimportant, while merely honorary thougli active situations in the magistracy, were rather avoided than sought, by enterprising Colonists. Thus many difticulties accrued in tlie appointment of persons completely qualified for certain employments i and we have accordingly experienced an inconvenience common to al! new Countries. Bui although, at the present peculiar crisis, the imperfections of various incundients may strike observers more forcibly tlian before, they will doubtless, upon reflection, be led to confess, that it would often be distressing to su- persede them. Indeed we have frequently occasion to remark, that our generous Chief bears with the infirmities of those ancient servants of their Country, sometimes allowing thein deputies, and always D 2 m ( 28 ) accepting with sincero regret the rosignations of tlioie who \\\ay be found more willing than able to render active service. But every necessary sacrifice to justice and eeneroslty, as well ftg to circumstances of local situation and family connection, can never obstruct the claims of real talents and unassuniiiig merit to the countenance and encoura<>ement of the Provincial Administration. What a field for the exercise of the greatest and most amiable quali- ties is now before our Governor General! How many experimentij will occur to him, worthy of a benevolent and superior mind ! To be more particular, let us consider the real advantages, which will arisn from exciting a laudable emulation among the young French Canadians, hitherto removed ft-om situations calculated to rouse the latent energies of their minds. Besides providing for immediate de-, fence, the plans of our Chief seem wisely calcidated for the uerjietuai security of the Country. A number ot young men of family, intro- duced as officers into the proposed increase of select incorporated Militia, will be quickly formed to the service, and gradually prepared to shiiie in the superior military ranks, It sei^ns pt^rticularly proper that an opportunity should be afforded for embracing the profession of arms, at an early period of life; for we haye daily experience to prove ihat many individuals whose situations and fortune are the acknowledged passports to Militia^rank, are rendered very unfit by age or by confirmed habits of civil life, to perform the requisite duty with satisfaction to themselves pr advantage to their (.ountry. But let us not confine our view to the French Canadians, the majority of our population : let us consider the rooiju for discrimina- tion and sagacity, among the youth of the rest of the community. At a time when commerce is nearly annihilated, ami when the youths attached to the liberal professions are unoccupied, the defence of 'he Country is the principal field of honorable exertion. In such circum- stances, lot the eye of the Governor be only deemed watchful, and his ear always open, and then the emulatiou of our generous youths will fieifoini. wonders. All who mfy be peculinrly fitted for a military, ilewili irrevccably adopt it, while the rest will, for the prescribedf period, eiierreticiilly perform their duty, retiring afterwards, with honor, to tlieir civil pursuits, though ready to resume the sword, at their Country's call. Bi'.t besides military promotion, properly so called, the various ap- poiiitniciits in the ('ommissariat and in otlier departments peculiar to a war-establishment, will furnish many opportunities to our Governor, to encourage mod( st merit, to reward fidelity, and liberally to extend, to ail good subjects, their share of public benefits. When the people perceive the public expenditure wisely applied, and rewards con- ierrcd with impartiality upon the truly deserving, they bear all bur- ' i \ It iiia^ be as well tioii, can rit to the istration. )le qiiali- )criuientEi d! PS, which !^ Frencli oiise the 'diate de-; )cr[ietiial y, intro- nporated prepared \y proper )rofes8ion Jrieiice to e are the. unfit by isite duty y. liaiis, the scriniina- riity. At ie youths *e of '-'ie h circuin- I, and hiR uths will niilitarv, resrribecT ids. with word, at nous ap- 'culiar to over nor, ) extend, le people rds con- all bur- I ( 29 ) \hvuH withoiit a murmur, and heartily ac(|uiesce in every measure necessary lor the support of nhat tlioy thus clearly perceive to be a ('ouunoii cau.se. ac iiut fi'.rtlier, the present ( roveruor General appears inclined to t a bolder part, thiin some of 'lis predecessors. 1 hough doubtless, succeeding-, alouj;- with iiis office, to a certain mass of information an(l practical precepts, sufiicient to limit a less intrepid and original geniuH, to the beaten tract of preceding administrations, he has opeu' id a iitic route ; he has xiciced the Coiwtri/ audits diversified population in a nezo li^ht, and has most prubahlij judged for himselj\ divested of pnjudiec and f/ntraiiiiiir/Ud Ij// roidiue. Lpon this principle, I will suppose that u^any men, formerly treated with studied neglect, have appeared to him (leserving of notice; many, represented as bad sub- jects, have scouj'hI worthy of at least, one effort to reclaim them. To his enlarge(l jind, replete with resource, it may have appeared as possible as it wa . desirable to conciliate all those characters, who had been proved to possess considerable influence in the community, and to strengthen his administration with what had unfortunately served but to weaken that of his predecessors. Such experiments, at the present crisis, when the efforts of an undivided people are required to yave them from destruction, ought, in my humble opinion, to be view- ed with candour ; and the most jealous among us should stifle their complaints at sight of necessary sacrifices to internal union and tran- quillity, and, (for aught they know) in some particular cases, to justiee. While an insidious enemy lurks upon out frontiers, eager to profit by the oversights and blunders of self-sufiicient administrations, tve have no time to waste on punctilios ; and it will often be only common prudence to give a patie\it ear to imaginary grievances. To conclude, much of the sagacity employed by our Chief, in se- lecting fit characters to execute his designs, must remain unknown to the public, they will have to judge of the whole of his exertions, by some peculiar traits ; and, if they tind increasing satisfaction in con- templating the ostensible agents of his will, they may safely give him ^qual credit for those who are unseen, We have all however already nerceived and acknowledged the propriety with which the great landholders,' the mercantile bodies, and generally all leading charac- ters, in both Provinces, have been called upon to rouse the energies of the Country. We have seen, with joy, that they have justified our Governor s confidence in their efforts ; and we look forward to the effects of the unabated zeal of the whole population, properly directed, as the principal means, under Providence, of obtaining a successful issue to a contest, all important to ourselves, and involving the interest and honor of the powerful Empire to which we belong. ( 30 ) Montreal, 9th. JanuarYj 1813. The Goodness of ovr Cause, rendering us unanimous and strong against an Enemy weakened by disunion. *, I now beg leave to call the attention of my readers to a few observations and facts regarding '■'' the goodness of our enu^e, rendering us unanimous and strongs against an enemy urahened by disunion.'^ The well known sagacity of experienced nations and particularly of Britain, pointing out to her the importance of not increasing the number of her enemies, in the tremendous struggle which she is making against Napoleon, for the preservation of )wr dcHcrved rank among the powers of the world, alTords a strong presumption to unprejudiced minds, that she would instinctively avoid provoking the hostility of the United States. JJut we are not reduced to such an appeal to the feelings of the candid and confiding ; for we have the direct evidence of recorded facts, evincing to the most sceptical mind, that long continued provocation, as well as final hostility has been the object systematically pursued by the present administration of the United States, that creature of the democratic faction, uniform- ly subservient to monarchical, republican and imperial France. The many unworthv characters who were brought into power and notice during that successful rebellion, which severed the British Colonies from the Parent State, remained embodied after the peace, and secretly enlisted under the power of France. The infatuated go- vernment of that Country, which had encouraged rebels and cherish- ed a spirit destined eventually to destroy itself, incessantly intrigued, in order to prevent the United States from performing the solemn engagement expressed in their* Declaration of Independence, — to hold the British nation, as the rest of mankind, " enemies in war, in peace, friends." In the slight review proposed to be taken of the conduct of tlie French faction, in the United States, headed by Jefferson, Madison and Gerry, the first striking fact is the use which they made of the injudicious articles inserted in the definitive treaty of 1783, forming a fallacious arrangement respecting the debts due, and the property belonging to British Subjects and loyalists. Those articles, the ful- filment of which depended upon the honorable dispositions of parti- cular States, not upon the efficient and authoritative measures of the general government, were successfully employed by the French fac- tion, then in the minority, to excite the worst passions of the Ameri- can people. '**"***^.-fc>.^w!:.''*t»***«»Wb>«»*i>-'* w wmmmmm fUARYj 1813, mous and stroi/g adt'rs to a Ihw auiCy rcndniiig ij disunion.'" nd particularly iiicreapiiijr tii'e • which she is r deserved rank ^resumption to void provokinjr ■educed to such :; for we have most sceptical lal hostility has administration wtion, wiifonn- France. fht into power red the British rter the peace, ! infatiiated go- ;?l.s and cherish- ntly intriffued, ig the solemn ?pendence, — to leniies in war. conduct of the 'son, Madison y made of the 1783, forming the property tides, the fuf- ions of parti- lasures of the e French fac- ttf the Ameri- ( 31 ) fiat the feelings of dishonest debtors and unprincipled holders of property not their own, were rendered still more eftectual in de- foatinn- every endeavor of Washington's administration, to do justice to Britain, by the jealousy of many well-meaning citizens, misled by faction. In consequence of dishonorable delay in fulfilling the arti- cles in question, the British government rightfully retained a number of military posts, upon the American frontier ; and that circumstance was unbluvihiiigly represented to the American people as a proof that Britain wan secretly resolved to seize the first opportunity of reducing the United States to perpetual vassallage. While such base expedients were daily increasing sentiments un- friendly to Britain, Jefferson was preparing an experiment of com- mercial hostility against her. A Report, which, as Secretary of State, lie had framed upon the Commerce and Navigation of the United States (falsely representing the Regulations of Great Britain as inimical to their trade, and vainly endeavouring to prove that libera- lity was the attribute of France alone) developed his views to the world. Founded upon this notable State Paper (full of glaring inconsistencies which even shamed their author into temporary re- tirement from office), his political subordinate and friend, Mr. Ma- dison, introduced into the House of Representatives, in Congress, in ITO-l, a string of Resolutions, calculated, under the veil of Municipal Regulations, to supplant the British, in favor of French Commerce. Their spirit breathed the most malignant hostility to the trade and manufactures of Britain ; and his speech upon the occasion contained the most atrocious sentiments. Speaking of the British manufactures, he said : " There are three hundred thousand souls, who live by our " custom : let them be driven to porert/y and despair, and what will be " the consequence f Most probably an accession of so many useful " citizens to the United States." The encouragement which they recommended to domestic manufactures, in defiance of the prudent means laid down in Jefferson's Notes on Virginia, was only a lure to the artisans in the United States, who were daily increasing by emigration from Europe, and were then considered worthy of enlist- ment, under the banners of the French faction. SI But the sagacity and firmness of Washington's administration prevented the triumph of JefTersonian policy upon that occasion ; and the liberality of Britain powerfully seconded the American go- vernment, in its efforts to preserve neutrality and peace. The com- mercial treaty, concluded by Lord Gienville and Mr. Jay, in 1794, after a negociation which removed every cause of irritation between both nations, secured to the United States the way to wealth, in spite of the machinations of the tools of France. At length, the vessel of state " in the full tiile of successful experiment" was left by Washington and his immediate successor^ to 11/ { 32 ) tlic tiJii'e of .Tcftcrson, >vho assumed the liclin, in 1801. Then bcfiriiri that dereliction of the manly conduct of his predccedsoro in utticej which marked the baseness of his soul. A mysterious declining of the reHponnibilitj attached to patronising^ unportant measures, under the ileceptive appearance of lalsc modesty and humility concealed the dark design of making a deluded people the destroyers of their ho- nor, respectability and peace. Among the first acts of Jefferson's administration^ affectljig Great Britain in particular, was such an application of the principle of American naturalization (always e(pjivocal) as discovered his rooted hostility. The election of Jeffersoji to tlie Presidency has, with much reason, been ascribed to the machinations of malcontent re- fugees from the British Islands ; and, as the means of increasing and rendering stable that poWer which he had obtained^ he procul-ed an almost immediate and unconditional naturalization and share of legislation to foreign interlopers, the well knotvn supporters of' France and of French principles. Having thus established his own power and that of his faction^ by the deterioration of the national cliaracter of America^ he wat^ ]>reparedto take every opportunity of indulging his depraved poli- tical propensities, — his predilection in favor of France, and his pre- judice against-Great Britain. During his administration, Bonapartd might trifle with the safetA , interest and honor of the United States^ with impunity. He might wrest Louisiiina from vassal Spain, in order tu hang upon their skirts, though ostensibly for the purpose of supplying the French West Indies ; and when tlie power oi Great Britain seemed likely to render his open and concealed designs nu- |;atory, he could find in the object of his encroachments, a complaisant purchaser of the ill-gotten and, to him, useless territory. The . rebellious and and disaffected subjects of Ireland were allured to the United States, and there clierisbed at the expense of the rulingi £iction ; while the casual s\ipply of provisions to the revolted French Slaves in Saint Domingo, was branded by the hypocrite as dishonor-' able to the American name. During his adminislration, American Commerce was left unprotected, and every means studiously with- drawn, which Could enable the United States to support the' law of nations and to preserve their previous rank auionj; the civilized powers. They thus appeared to the world fit tools fur thaf bellige- rent whose only mode f revenge and hostility a!>ainHt Britain, for her naval superiority oiid resistance to his insatiable ambition, was reduced to a vain attempt to destroy her commerce and to euslave the Continent of Europe* And soon did Napoleon resolve to make them drink deep of the cup of humiliation, which lie perfectly knew their dastardly unprincipled goveniinent could not, or would not remove; While the Ministers of America, Monroe and Pinckney^ are nego- oiatin^ a fiivorabie Commercial Treaty, at Loadon, XSapoleou Uilli ' m hcs;dn III oii^ce^ |iiiiiircscrvath)ii which is essential to the existence of everj' State, Britain, at leniyUi, warns the Tiiited States of their duty, and claims their exertions in support of the ancient and ac- knowledged rii^hts of nations, the foundalion of all commerce and civilization. But Britain callnl in vain ; and she was eventually obliged to do herself justice, by declariii'^ the dominions of France in a state of blockade, thus retiiliatiug with such mildness as showed lier reluctance to injure Neutrals, but at tlie same time with such dignity as lier rank required. Tlie unavoidable pressure of those measures upon America was calculated to awaken her to a sense of honor and true interest, and consequently to stimidate her to assist 111 forcinw the Tyrant to repeal his Decrees and thus remove the British Orders in Council. But sucli manly policy was far from the thoughts of Jefferson. Rejecting the British ('ommercial Treaty, and unable or unwilling to draw forth the united resources of his Country, in defcnce of the rights of nations, he thinks to blind hig fellow citizens and the world by a dereliction of all commerce with foreign climes, pretending that his Embargo was the only means of preserving the essential resources of America, from the rapacity of France and Great Britain. But the equivocal guise of that measure was marked by the world; and its injiirious effects were perceived to be levelled at England, though the cowardly blow recoiled upoii the hand which gave it* At last, the people of America could no longer endure " that *f cutting off of their commerce from a/l parts of the world.'^ The Northern States particularly exerted themselves for emancipation ; and, after much tergiversation, the gener.il government repealed the! Embargo Act^ replacing it with a law taking effect 1.5th March, 1809, which enacted non-intercourse witli France and Great Britain, as the means of obtniaing, by commercial restrictions, the repeal oi the French Decrees and British Orders in CounciL Here" ended the administration of JefftM-son, who was succeeded by his political son Mr. Madison ; and hitherto the policy of both has, in like circumstances^ been |jecuiiar!y resembling. The same war ill disguise against Euglaud, and abject submission to the wrongs and robberies of France ; the same " cunningly devised fables," to delude the unthinking multitude, distinguished both. But increasing pre- tensions to neutral rights (without tlie least efforts to perform neutral duties, or to resume that respectability which a federal navy and federal policy, under Washington and Adaiua procured.) have been most remarliable during Madi«oa's reign. £ ( 54 ) in rassing bj ErKkine^H unwarrniitahloarraiin^cinpnt anrl the missidtt bf Mr. tiackson, both n liicli aftbrded fresh causes of irritation, in the hands of the ruling faction, we may advert to the nuiny siihtilties of a protracted negocmtion hetucon the Anierinin niinintcr, Mr. Pinck- hey, and the Marquis Wei lesley; into which was ofTiciouBly mingled a piirfjlexing variety of grievances iniavoidably incident to a Neutral, unprotectecT by its miserable government, during a long and embit- tered contest between the rival nations of J^irope. Tiie Minister of France had only to write a letter promising a repeal of the Berlin end Milan Decrees on vague, impracticable, and inadmissible con> ditions, in order to procure from the American Government, a re- hewal of commercial intercourse and t'arther demonstrations of hostile intentions towards ({ritaln. During tlio ulioie of the discus- sion respecting the pretended repeal of the Berlin and Milan De- crees, we perceive on the part of Madison an unbounded conlidence. in the asserlionn of Bonaparte ; and such proofs occur of partiality to the tyrant as must reduce every candid observer to the alternative of believing the American Government, either really acting in collu- sion with France, or at least as ronsi(liriii}i; Gnat iirilain capable of being intimidated hy vmmxuvres. imiicaiing an intention to take an undisguised part in the European contest. At length, in the course of 1811, we early suspected that the mission of Mr. Foster would produce no satisfactory arrangement : We saw nothing but a display of diplomatic dexterity on the part of the American cabinet ; and we have now found, that, while they were amusing us with negociation, they were secretly preparing those unworthy expedients intended to excite the alarm against Great Britain, by ascribing to her views incompatible with the union and independence of the State;:!. For many months however before the declaration of war, the constituted authorities of the Canadas, so nearly interested in the state of relations between both powertr, were gradually [)reparing for the result ; though their iiicliiuitions at times induced them to c]jeri>'h the hopes ot peace. Tlieir conlidence in the peaceable pro- iVssions of the United States' ( Jovernment entirely tailed, when they I'.eard of their base attempts upon tiie friendly Province of East Florida: v,!ii!c the unjust war begun against tiie oj)presHed Indian Tribes, induced ihcm to view tlie admini>^tralion of Madison as re- solved to bring i:!ro action tho-;e principles of unjustifiable aggran- disement which had been gradi.iiUy developed, in the debates of ('ongco^s. It likewise readit\ occurred, that the conquest of the Canadas, UMfst enter into any pl;ui of the ruling faction, to liuinhle L'nglniii! ; tor those Provinces had become gradual iy important to her; and tliey were besides considered as ihp best lure to the cupidity of some of ih.e neighltoring Slates, particular^ Vernient, which had ofien \iiinly bo;\sted cf its abiliiy and inclination to conquer this Countcvj even at its own expentie. ill the ties of Pinck- ingled eutral, embit- ter of lierlin e con- a re- ns of isciis- Oe- (ideiice, (iulity native collu- able of tike an N XI. MoNTiiF.AL, ."0th January, 1815« Sonic Sulijid conli/innl. Front the farts and observations contained in my Number, dated 9th inst., descriptive of the course of policy pursued hy the ruliu!>; faction in the United States, it niii^lit naturally be concluded, that their avowed causes of war aj>ainst (Jreat iiritain would be false and frivolous. That upon wliich .\Ta(iison placed the j;;reatest emphasis, and wliich he painted in (he most <>larin;>' colours, in his warlike messai^e to Con<;res-i, was, the Orders in Council, issued by Eng^land in retaliation of Napaleou's barhaious decrees; while the Impress- ment of Si-amen ti^-'ired only as a secondary a;rouiul of hostility. The conciliatory spirit of our Country, however, haviui"- produced a repeal of the Orders in (Jouucil, as far as they affected the United States, our base opponents now pretend to discover all the evils of Pandora's Box, in our exercise of the uiicictd and acknmiled>^cd risht of impress- ing British seamen^ found on board of neutral mtrcTiant vessels in time of unr. The nature of this perfect right, its primary importance to our Parent Statt!, and the mode in which it has been exercised by her, have been lately so well discussed in the Quebec Gazette,* that I shall here introduce only a few general remarks upon the subject, in order to connect it with my plan, referring, for particulars, to that Paper. From all that I liave been able tf> learn on the subject of our right of impressment, 1 am fully convinced that the United States' Government have no real cause of complaint. In fact, this appears to be one of their favoin'ite means of deceiving and inflaming the American people, affording frecjuent occasions to misrepresent and exaggerate the character and nund)er8 of the individuals taken out of their trading vessels. Tite ruling faction in the United States may, at all events, be safely challenged to prove to the world, that, during ihciv nominal neutrality, any native American was retained, by force, on board of our vessels of war, by the orders or with the connivance of our Government. The contrary practice of dismissing all such individuals from British siiips of war, is so notorious, that it would be an insult to the memories and to the understandings of my readers, after recent discussions, to dilate upon the subject. It certainly requires much courtesy and temper, to discuss, without • See tlie Quebec Gazette for December and January last : " Question of Impreismcot,"^ i: 2 . -^ . --<0St:!ZL^::%J:, :3ArS!**' ' 'i- ¥< ( .*<6 ) oWifjuy nnd pnsMion,fhp unworlliy p«»lioy of ojir piiomv, nnd (o trncp, wiiluiul ^iviiii( t'lili pliiy to ii'itiiral r('(>liii<.<;s, *'i(> insidious oppi-oarlics oi^l/iat icoff in s/iup's (liitfiin!^, townriU our linriuliv^s r«»l(ls. TliiinU (jJod! the slicpliordH were vijiilaiit; and tlicir dfcisivt' roiidiict (piicKly forced t/if hcast of pi 11/ to throw oil" ail disj^uisc, and to appi-ar in Ins iiutivt; charactei ol' cowaidic.i' and cruel rajiacity. Prepared as we now are to view tlio foe in his true rolonrs, and to appreeiati' ti\e real cause of (pianeL we \\A\i\ l»ut little to fear. Facts and experience liave clearly proved to the (.'anadians, tl-.it in the present war, tliey must continue to derciul all that niakeH life desirable, ai^ainst a (oe (l(>licient in civil and military virtues. When we go forth to the battle against such au cneuiy, d'^void of that nuiirnani- niily atul that nio(l:-ruliou in victory, which habits of success and strict discipline uloue can produce, we oui^lit t(» resolve to prefer death to deteat, — extermination, to the idea of dra<;i;iui;- out u renniaut of existence, exposed to the tyranny and scorn of nun)i)evl«'ss u])starts. When we reflect upon the avowed policy and conduct of the rulers and i>;eneruls of the United States, aiul u))on the j>enius and circum- stances of the subordinate ai^ents of their will, we become convinced that the expected contest will be very similar to that of a peaceable householder against a band of nocturnal robbers. J will maintain, that our feelings, upon the occasion, should resemble those of an honest man attacked^ in the dwellings of his fathers, by a banditti, as poor, rapacious and insatiable as any "band of fierce barbarians froui the hills, rmhing like a torrent down upon the vales, sweeping flocks and herds." But let us endeavour calmly to consider what we shrill be called upon to defend: J'iist, the henoiu' of our ("duntry ; — our enemy has, for year.-, eni[>loyed every insuitini>' epithet wliich languajye could furnish against (jreat Britain : his venal presses, conducted by rene- gadoes, in defiance truce, roadies 'I'liiiiili |i;i(l(ly ill his ( 37 ) When tlirir hnsp myrHmidonH tlieruforo daro to violntc tlio aflyliiin of loyalty, viitiiP and true coiiraf;c, IcttlK'in Ih» met with those feelingg uiid i>iiPi'i;ies which a sacn'd cause shoiihl inspire. Let every man think, thai hin individual ellorts may hi)])|)ily contribute to maintain the honor oFthc Kin^ whmii he loves, mid to preserve from pollution nil those l>l(;sr,iiia;s, wliich the fJod whom he adores has hestowed ; — L(>t him tliiidi, that, ill no circumstances, can hin person be more meritorioiiNly exposed, than in dcfi'iidiiii; the Kciigion, the Law8, tlio Properly, — the common beiiclils ofUritons. Impressed with such ideas, we shall form a saored band, capable of ronlendiii"' against far mroater luiinberH of men, who cannot pogsi- biy have motives of eijiial power to stimulate them to deeds of valour. '4'lory may dazvcle his soldiers at first, time and experience will soon dissipate its false lustre, changing their eager- ness into apathy ; and, instead of fighting desperately for Canadian plunder, they may possibly pillage their employers. To conclude, in every contest, our enemies' weakness constitutes a part of our strength ; and, when we reflect upon the various and conflicting opinions and interests which prevail among the people of the United States, we may be allowed to doubt whetlier any cause except that of defending their friends could heartily unite them. No such cause characterises on their part the present war ; and accord- ingly in its declaration and prosecution I have hitherto viewed them as necessarily a divided people. But let us be prepared for the icorst that can be feared from the malignity of the American Government ; and let ns tluwk God, that, if we must shed human blood, it shall not M ff'*i |..^1 krotection to a view clntrartcr and other B French Country, 11 siuilar ( 39 ) tirriimstances. It was snj^ijested with deference that the principal ad- vantan:e to be drawn from that important part of our population, would be found in their aptitude for partisan warfare ; and that, in no probable circumstances, mij^ht it be proper to employ above one sixth of such as are subject to militia-service, in rej^ular hostility. The religious and civil institutions of the Lower Province were as- serted to be admirably calculated to call forth the wh"!e energies of the French Canadians, in defence of their Country; and the sources of their woU-founded antipathy to the American Government, were carefully explored. The character of the rest of the population of both Provinces was afterwards reviewed ; and their feelings and interests were considered as promising what has strikingly appeared during the late campaign ; an invincible energv in rallying round the government and in promot- ing its measures. The loyalists, British settlers and their descendants, in Upper ('anada, have had glorious oj^portunities of contributing to defend their country and the honor of their King, against the worst enemies of both. Theadvantaj);cs derivable from the local situation of the Canadas •were next adverted to, A knowledge of the best military posts and positions was af^cribed to the Provincial Government; and anticipa- tions are hazarded of various precautions and expedients, commonly emplc^ lid against an invading force. An attention to all such posts and positions as had once been chosen and fortiiied by French En- gineers was humbly recommended, as well as a careful study of the conduct and events of the French and English cainpaign« in this Country. The interna', resources of the Canadas, with respect to provir-ions wore slightly inspected ; and inferences were drawn favorable to their ability, with a reasonable degre" of aid from Britain, to furnish sub- sistence, during a long war. (/ur native supplies of timber, iron and hemp, all necessary for the building of a rner-flotilla, were justly considered of great importance. After apasHirg remark upon the nece?sit ; of unceasing protection andencourag, i)»ent to the internal trade of the Country, I began, with a trembling hand, to siietch my expectations from t'ae personal character and influence of our Governor General, in doing which I attemoted, though in vain, by glowing colours, to display the enthusias.n of the whole population, as manifested ov. very occasion, bv addresses and other publications, as well as by oral expression. While performing this interesting part of my task, a variety of opinions fell itwensiblv from my pen, which nu rked the spirit of the times, and were Pouaa «ongenial to the generii feelings I5f ) « i ( 40 ) Then came a selection of facts, illustrative of " the goodness of our cause, rendering us unanimous and strong against an cnemt/ weak- ened hy disunion." The provokinff policy of the democratic faction, in the Uiiitod States, was traced fi-oin the peace of lt83, to the late declaration of war ; and its invariable subserviency to France, Under every form of j;overnment, was attempted to be pourtrayed. And now^ after my late display of the peculiar feeling's which the goodness of our cause seems calculated to inspire, let me hasten to the conclu- sion of the whole speculation. From all that has been brotight forward upon the present occa- «lon, 1 shall take upon myself to submit to my Readers the following inferences, facts and opinions : 1" — Great Britain is more capable of defending distant dependen- cies; than any other nation mentioned in history ; and we have every reason to believe, that she is as wiliiirg as she is able to protect this Country. S""* — The Canadas, containing a patriotic population of four hundred and fifty thousand souls, and possessing many advantages in soil, agriculture, commerce and local situation, have consequently internal resources and means of resistance superior to most of the! other British Colonies. 3"! — The resources drawn from the Parent State, dn the scale of a peace establishment, and those derived from this Country, have, by skilful management, been found adequate to render abortive repeated attempts to invade these Provinces ; and, particularly in Lower Cana- da, the late campaign WIS ^'- honorablj/ terminated, without effusion of " blood, zi' thoiH loss of territory, and teithout interruption to the most " important habits of peace, hij a recourse to martial lata." k 4"' — As a contrast to the zeal, docility and confidence, dis- played by our soldiers and armed population, the armies of the United Siates, during the present contest have frequently shown a spirit of insubordination; and, while the talents and judicious ar- rangements of our (Governor General and his officers have been fiilly evinced, incapacity has been seen to prevail in the land-service of our enemy, through every department. 5th — Projects of unjustifiable aggrandizment being now com- pletely developed on the part of the Dnited vStates' Government, li salutary jealousy and vigil-mcc Will be henceforth cherished by the administration of the Parent State; and they will doubtless never expose this Country again to tlie possibility 01 bein^at least partially occupied by an enemy that could bring art army of 5O,00O men^ proi^ the. ■^^ mmm- oodncss of miy wcak- :ic faction, to the late !ce, Under yed. And goodness he conclu- sent occa- j following dependen- have ever^ Totect this on of four vantages in nsequently lost of the! the scale of ry, have, by ve repeated ower Cana- effusion of I to the most idence, dis- Tiies of the iy shown a idicious ar- ? been fully id-ssrvice of tiow com- vernment, ai ished by the btless nsver ast partially ( 41 ) e*** — ^From such conRiderations, it may be feirly supposed, that even were the people of the United States unanimously resolved to Attack the (Janadas, the conquest must be purchased at a rate far beyond its value to them. It is indeed more than probable that Britain is both able and willing to defend these Provinces, for ever, against the united strength of all her foos. The possession of this Country even as a military post, would be worthy of the ambition of a great maritime power ; and, atler the case of Gibraltar, we may prognosticate the tate of Quebec, and, in general, reckon upon a firm adherence to the policy of defending to the last extremity, every distant establisluuent, associated in the minds of l^ritons, with national glory and commercial greatness, 7't' — Tlie Canadas should bo always viewed in conjunction with the wholeof the Transatlantic dominions of l^ritain ; in wliich light they assume a much higher degree of importance than if otherwise considered. Particularly during hostilities with the United States, the supplies generally fu.nished to the British West Indies and New* fouodland fisheries, by the Canadas and by the other British North- America Colonies, become doubly valuable ; and consequently the effort- of I .''arent State should be vigorously and promptly applied, in o: i :•• i. ^.revent that interruption to agriculture, commerce and inland iiaviT-ation, which the niere apprehension of invasion is suf* 0cient to produce. gth — fj^g British North-American Colonies and particularly the Canadas, by the enlightened policy of the Mother Country, have been gradually raised to importance, — affording a growing market to Bri- tis'' manufactures, extensive employment to British Si^Ipping, Seamen and Capital, — furnishing likewise valuable supplies of naval stores ; — and, in short, by their general industry and commerce, materially contributing to the national power, revenue and splendor of the Parent State, g"- — From the r.bove view of the colonial importance of thig Country, it may be r« iisonably expected, that the Government of the British Empire zt^'^ .not. confine their exertions to the mere prevention of its conquest ,• of. vi I'hey will extend such powerful protection as may enable the »,!fM i'y v- the male population to preserve the habits and exercise the arts v/ jeace, 10"'— The most likely means of obtaining those ends, are, such an estahlishmept of regular troops as Would preclude any fears of a temporary occupation of any part of our territory j — such a defence of the navigation of the Saint Lawrence as would render the lumber arid provision trade practicable ; — such a navy upon the lakes as would insure the superiorty to Britain \-~andj lasltly^ such a vigorous prosecution of F ^ Pi h 'vl > I' ■•^HHi ,' 5«; mvm.- ^xm I ! { ) ihe ajrfr, Upon the enemy's coitst, ns^ bt/ destroying his trade, interrtipting his industry, exhausting his resources, im we have lit^'ofadd- s of a cha- irards those linst whose te pursued. IS in which ikness, has ters. The a country f posterity, 1 judgment coDc^uertd* ( ^i ) In this respect, j cannot too strongly express iny approbation of the conduct which Sir George Prevost has uniformly pursued towards the private subjects of the United States. The treatment dhown to those who happened, in pursuit of commercial purposes, or otherwise^ without any ill design, to be in the Province at the time of the declaration of war, was liberal and even indulgent. In proof of this, I need only refer to the different Proclamations, which extended, time aftei iirae, the period fixed for their removal; evincing a solicitous attention to their circumstances, and to the friendly purposes for which they had entered the Province ; and finally leaving it in their power to remain on the most easy conditions possible in the present state of iiffairs. The treatment experienced, in li' o mannerj by the numerous prisoners who have been taken, has been worthy of a great and an enlightened power. The polite attention shown to the Americaa officers, and the humane treatment experienced by the prisoners, are well known ; and, notwithstanding some unworthy returns, it is hoped, will never be discontinued. Although this liberality has, in some cases, been ungenerously returned, ana, in one instance, shame- fully denied,* and the contrary charge set up ; such an accusation falls light on the brazen shield of conscious integrity and unsullied! honor; It is curious to observe how generally the Americans have branded bur fighting in concert with the Indians, as an alliance shocking td humanity ; while nothing can be more certain, than that the solel effect of this connection, is to save the lives of our enemies. As the Indians, as well as icje, must defend themselves ; the only consequence! of their fighting in a different field from us, would be, that, according to their received customs, they would tomahawk all who might come in their war, sparing neither age, sex, nor condition, nor listening to any terms of surrender. As things are, the presence and authority of a. British force, secures the lives of all who are defenceless, and all who surrender. For thus saving the lives of our enemies, we ar« branded as unchristianj and threatened with extermination. Such humane endeavors, on the part of our Commander, on the part of his officers and men, to sotlen the furious ra^ of war, and of a war into which we were forced in spite of every effort to preserve peace, can never be too highly admired, nor too confidently praised/ • Sec the Montreal Herald for ilipril lO, oa " American feoerosity." / .,-/. ■/