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'" ^■;.-ii^'V ,» fj- S 'l ^ t •>,, I* ,„ .^' ••i-^. -. 1 i w * - ?^;- A-f^' ^ ^ ^ -' ?<^/" .¥ r . ,*^,e«^««K^«--**'^*t'**^'^''1!^ 'I ■ I ij^ V.i^siiir-"^"''*''**'''''*': ' ' -'*i '^r^i^-M^'. i > s -^-.-TT^ —.,-!•- h TttNijh^i JnttiMiyi.jfi9i. hy Utttttwrn^Oiufocl J *rntiiiat'\-i.jf*:f3. Ai Tta/thfin.fh'ifft'rA- .<• Jox' .'Ifntfon . 9mn < n.' ■'wiipgvi/irj> '>J FEW PLAIN DIRECTIONS FOR PERSONS INTENDING TO PROCEED AS SETTLERS 1 TO HIS MATESTY'S PROVINCE UPPER CANADA, IN NORTH AMERICA. Pointing out the best Port to embark at for Quebec. — Provisions and other Tilings necessary to be provided for the Voyage. — ^The best and cheapest Method of Travelling from Quebec to Montreal, and thence to Kingston aiid York, a Distance of 600 Miles, whereby Emigrants may avoid heav^ Expenses.— The Metliod of obtain- ing Land in the most eligible Districts. — What Property various Descriptions of Emigrants should possess on their Arrival in Ame- rica. — Advice to Farmers, Tradesmen, Mechanics, &c. — ^A De- scription of that fine and interesting Province : its Productions, &c. &c. — Some cursory Remarks on the Manners and Customs of the Inhabitants. CONTAINIITG ALSO A SHORT SKETCH OR JOURNAL OF TTJE AUTHOR'S VOYAGE ACROSS THE ATLANTIC, In June, 1819. BY AN ENGLISH FARMER" SETTLED IN UPPER CANADA, a ^ap. \ LONDON: ~ - PRINTED FOR BALDWIN, CRADOCK, AND JOY, 47, PATERNOSTER-ROW. 1820. n I a n *t,.:. -'int^;fui:!i m i m< . i I- i 1 fif C. Baldwin. Pn«»<«. .tvsMsji.'iiJi. PREFACE, In offering this little volume to the Public, it is the Author*s intention to afford those persons who are desirous of emigrating to our North American Colonies, particularly the province of Upper Canada, such information as will enable them to avoid delays and ex- pense, and to establish themselves within a reasonable time after their arrival. That such information is very much wanted, the condition of numbers of emigrants who kit England with property sufficient for every exigency, will evince. Many have expended large sums of money in search of farms and grantable land^, and have found themselves^ at the ex- piration of two or three years, in more hope* less circumstances, and with worse prospects, than before their departure from their native country. That these fine and interesting colonies present fair advantages to industrious emi- grants of every denomination and profession, is a fact of which the Author is fully con- vinced ; and as it is his ardent and heartfelt a^ iv PllErACE. wish to be serviceable to his fellow-countrv- men, neither intending to mislead them by false representations, or to excite hopes and expectations which his conscience tells him can never be realized, he thought he should be fulfilling a duty which he owed to such persons (however inadequate his abilities might be to the task), in endeavouring to smooth the difficulties and remove the obsta- cles which might interrupt their welfare and success. , , This little volume has no beauty of style, no elegance of language, to recommend it ; it contains only an unembellished narration of facts, important to such persons as may re- quire " Plain Directions^ It has been the Author^s principal aim to render it useful; and he offers it to the public with the hope that they will excuse its defects, since he has used his best endeavours to serve them. The condescension of a gentleman in an official situation at York, Upper Canada, has enabled me to give a Map or Plan of the province of Upper Canada, with its subdivi- sions into townships, &c. &c. , vf Upper Canada^ January "2,0, 1820. CONTENTS. ' 1 '.}. . i! CHAPTER I. Upper Canada the best Country for British Emi- grants to settle in— Numbers of the Inhabitants of the United States of America emigrate to that Province, and take the Oath of Allegiance to the British Government — Mr. Grece's Opi- nions—Canada preferable to New South Wales and Cape of Good Hope for Emigrants— Hoir Emigrants must proceed to Liverpool, or the Port at which they embark — A List of Stores, &c. &c. necessary to be provided for the Voy- age — ClotheSi &c. — Advice to Persons when on Ship-board — Cooking— Deportment, &c. &c. Page . ) 1 i.u CHAPTER n. Passage from Liverpool to Quebec — Newfound- ; land — A nticosti— Description of the Country on each Side of the River St. Lawrence 16 CHAPTER m. r Directions for travelling from Quebec to Kings- ston and Hamilton— Directions for travelling I ,;.,j OONTIWTS. l\ t If from Kingston to York, the Capital of the Upper Province, 580 Miles West of Quebec —How and to ^l^ovn Emigrants must apply for Grants of Land or the purchase of Farms — Advertisements respecting the granting 6f Lands, copied from the Upper Canada Gazette of January 6, 1 820. ....,.., • . • • pig« 39 CHAPTER lY. " ^ The But of the Upper Province which is best " to settle in«— Description of the Neighbouvhood ^ of Amherst, or the Courthouse, in the Town* ^ ship of Hamilton, District of Newoastlev ^ County of Northumberland — Rice Lake, its ' fine Situation for Settlers, &c. — Expense of "^ clcMnring Land — Expense of building Houses and Bams — Maple Sugar — Cattle — Hogs — Hoifet— Poultry, &c. .,. S9 m. ir'*:";Ct:. ,],,;;;■: ^;(» ^t;;:.-^fv^^»»^^' "CHAPTER V. Animal and Yagetable Productions of Upper Ca- nada—Deer — Beaver— Otter — Musk-Rat— Hare — Bear — Wolf — Fox — Racoon — Porcu- pine — Martin — Squirrel - - Serpents— Birds- Partridge — Pigeons — Wild Ducks — Geese- Humming Bird, &c.^Fi8h; Salmon — Trout— Maskalungi, &c. — Trees, Shrubs and Plants —Apples — Peaches — Plums — Cherries— Hic- kory Nuts— Butter Nuts— Walnuts, &c. &c.. . ,^i 06 y^f- CONTENTS. •« VII* CHAPTER VI. General Appearance and Climate of Upper Ca* nada — Scenery — Obsenrations on the Inhabit- ants— 'Indians — General Remarks; and Advioe to Emigrants— Conclusion , «• 93 >» i "■-3 . .' .': .i;:-)! l»(?''"TlV™*W;''''^'"l'Ml"'«'i|l«VI'". ► »!/^;, ,';. ;'''', .,yf - '^wmf^'Tf-Tip? 1| < I DIRECTIONS FOR PERSONS INTENDING TO SETTLE IN UPPER CANADA. CHAPTER I. upper Canada the best Country for British Emigrants to settle in — Numbers of the Inhabitants of the United States of America emigrate to that Province, and take the Oath of Allegiance to the British Go- vernment — Mr. Grace's Opinion — Canada preferable to New South Wales and Cape of Good Hope fpr Emigrants — How Emigrants must proceed to Liver- pool, or the Port at which they embark— A List of Stores, &c. &c. necessary to be provided for the Voyage — Clothes — Advice to Persons when on Ship- board — Cooking, Deportment, &c. &c. h ROM the commencement of the French revolution to the year 1815, the continent of Europe was distracted by sanguinary and ex« pensive wars. • The resources of great nations B i j ^- t ■ •■ ; ■) ■ f ; ; I ; t '[ , 2 i! were exhausted ; and the distress which en- sued after the termination of hostilities com- pelled multitudes of people to seek an asylum in the New World. The great mass of emi- gration was directed principally to the United States, under the mistaken idea that the ter- ritory of the republic offered more advantages, as well as more freedom, to settlers than the British colonies. Those colonies too, before the late lamentable war between Great Britain and the States, were but little known, except to merchants and seamen, who, from the nature of their pursuits, could have no op- portunity of acquiring such a knowledge of the interior of the country, or the more remote parts of it, as would enable them to give a just representation of it. The advantages which these colonies, particularly Upper Ca- nada, offer to emigrants are now partly de- veloped. The Americans have been aware of them for some time, and have profited by their knowledge. Whilst English subjects, to whose dispositions a repubUcan government and re- publican manners will always be uncongenial and repugnant, were settling on the banks of the Ohio and in the Elysian Prairies of the 3 r, IVIissouri — -their enterprise and their money both nearly exhausted before they arrived there — thousands of the citizens of the United States, attracted by the salubrity of the climate, and the fertility of the soil of Upper Canada, were flocking into it, and taking with- out hesitation the oath of allegiance to the British government, in order to reap the be- nefit of settling there. This is a well known fact ; and if it were duly impressed on the minds of persons desirous of emigrating to America, they would certainly prefer a coun- try, where they could enjoy all the blessings and the privileges of our excellent constitu- tion, to one, where they must live under a form of government with which they are unacquainted, and among a people who would be very far from answering the expectations they had formed of them. I have no hesitation in saying that the British colonies, particu- l^ly the province of Upper Canada, are more suitable for jBriVi^/K emigrants, whether agricul- turists or mechanics, than the United States, and that they would there have better prospects of success, as well as the enjoyment of a greater degree of happiness and contentment. B2 , ! I t ;r Mr. Charles F. Grece has fully demonstrated this fact in his valuable work entitled, " Facts and Observations respecting Canada and the United States of America. London, printed for J. Harding, St. James's-street, 1819." To that gentleman's publication, I beg to refer persons intending to proceed to the Canadas for a great deal of very useful and important information. To forsake our native government and laws, and to add to the strength and resources of a rival nation, must, considered in a moral point of view, be culpable ; and on this subject Mr. Grece makes the following very just observa- tion : — " I much question whether any sub- " ject of Great Britain can, upon a general " principle of reasoning, justify his conduct in " deliberately adding to the strength and re- " sources of a rival nation, whilst there are ** e.vtcnswe, rich, and fertile territories, be- " longing to his own country, inviting the " hand of cultivation, and claiming the exer- *' tions of all those who may be induced to quit " the immediate soil that gave them birth, to «« seek their fortunes in distant regions." Having in the spring of the year 1819 de- J f tei mined upon emigrating to one of the British colonies, I gave the preference to Upper Canada, as well from the good account which I had received of that province from some of my friends who had visited it, as from the favourable representation which Mr. Hugh Gray, Mr, Heriot, and Mr. Lambert, have given of it in their travels. Although New South Wales possesses a fine climate and a fertile soil, yet it is at too great a distance from the mother country to make it a desirable residence for emigrants. The Cape of Good Hope has alm6st the same natural advantages as New Holland, but its plains and woods are infested with lions and other ravenous beasts of prey ; and the CafFres and Boshmen have lately disturbed the settlers. Private individuals intending to emigrate to the Canadas, may proceed directly to the port at which they mean to embark, without having any occasion to apply to the secretary of state for the colonies, as all the satisfaction or information they would receive from Lord Bathurst would be contained in a printed or official letter, acquainting them that a grant m #: ! v.i I- i'l ,i 1 1 ll 6 of twenty-five acres of land would be given to them by the governor on their arrival in Canada, without any assistance or encourage- ment except the actual grant itself. I arrived at Liverpool about the middle of June, 1819. This is undoubtedly the best port to embark from, as vessels may there be met with at any time during the spring and summer months ; and the expense of travel- ling to that town, even from places at a con- siderable distance, is not great. A circuitous, and often hazardous, passage by sea from the northern or eastern ports of England to the Chops of the Channel is likewise thereby avoided. In the winter, and very early in the spring, there are also vessels constantly going to New York ; from whence there are steam- boats to Albany, and a stage to Montreal, or to Sackett's harbour opposite Kingston, by Utica. This would be the best route for persons without families, or who had but little bag- gage, and who were desirous of leaving Eng- land in February or March. A considerable duty or per centage (as much, I believe, as thirty per cent.) on the value of their baggage, is paid at New York by persons not intend- ing to settle in the United States, but who were only passing through them in order to proceed to the Britisi^ colonies. Persons with families, and a considerable quantity of bag- gage, had therefore better embark for Quebec; and the commencement of April would be soon enough to leave Liverpool, as vessels cannot proceed up the river St. Lawrence to Quebec before the middle of May, on account of the ice. I found a large ship lying in the Queen's Dock at Liverpool, which was nearly ready to proceed to Quebec, and engaged my passage in the steerage for 51, 10s, having to find myself provisions, a bed, cooking utensils, and every other article, except water and the use of the ship's fire. I provided the following stores for the passage, being a sufficient stock for two months ; since few vessels arrive at Quebec from Liverpool in less time than eight, nine, or ten weeks, during the summer months. Going to a ship chandler's near the Queen's Dock, with a list ready made out of what would be necessary, I bought as follows : viz. ^- { ■> : J 8 £ s. d, 1 lb. of tea 8 7 lb. of sugar, at lOd, per lb. . . 5 10 2-1. lb. of coffee, ground, at 2^. . . 5 A quarter of a barrel of salt-beef, or about 55 pounds 16 6 56 lb. common biscuit ........ 10 9 2 bushels potatoes, at 2s, 4^.. .048 Barrel for packing ditto 2 A liquor case with 12 bottles. ... 10 6 2 gallons rum, at l6s • • 112 2^ dozen porter, at 12*. 6fif 1 11 3 Hamper for ditto and packing. .020 Tea-kettle 3 9 Tin water-can 2 6 Tin tea-pot 8 6 A tin coffee-pot 1 2 Tin kettle for cooking in 4 6 2 half-pint earthen mugs 4 2 plates 4 1 deep dish 1 1 table spoon and 1 tea- spoon. ... 06 1 knife and fork 1 4 1 tin wash-hand-bason 2 6 1 bottle of mustard 1 6 Mustard-pot 8 Carried over. ... 712 1 9 £ s. d. Brought forward.... 7 12 1 A candlestick 1 6 3 lb. of candles 3 Potatoe-net 6 Tin tea-caddy 1 6 60 eggs and packing 4 3 14 lb. of split-pease 3 6 2 ounces of ground-pepper .... 6 Pepper-box 6 6 bottles of Cape Madeira .... 018 Half a cheese 4 3 2 wine glasses and 2 tumblers . . 2 10 A bag for bread 104^ Hamper for the wine 1 2 A large second-hand chest to pack the above loose articles in, with lock. Oil A ship's bed and bolster 13 6 2blankets 15 A coverlet. 7 6 12 1 d^ Paid to the captain of the ship for passage 5 10 Total expense to Quebec. 17 11 5^ B 5 I ' 10 1^: r There may, perhaps, be several superfluities in this list of what I provided for myself alonr; it may, however, convey some idea of what others will require. For a number of persons, a stock must be provided accord- ingly, and agreeably to the nature of their appetites. Persons bringing beds, cooking utensils, bacon, hams, corned or hung beef, dried tongues and preserved fruits, from home with them, will lessen their expenses. Should there be women or children, it would be well to furnish them with the best white biscuit, or " good loaf-bread cut into slices and baked " a second time. If this be prepared pre- viously to leaving England it will keep good to the end of the voyage; and by soaking it ** in water or tea, it will be found excellent " nourishment." (Dr. Franklin's Directions.) Cider, figs, raisins, almonds, portable soup, potted-beef; cakes and preserved fruit, such as damsons, plums, gooseberries, currants, dried apples, &c. &c. As emigrants may have occasion to con- tinue a week or ten days at Liverpool, it would be well for them to hire lodgings at any respectable housekeeper's — except the inns — t( « M 11 (and lodgings are always to be procured) and board themselves; they will, by so doing, avoid expense, and live more agreeably than at a tavern, besides being able to equip them- selves with greater privacy and with less mo- lestation. Coarse warm clothing with flannel shirts, thick worsted or yam stockings, and strong shoes or half-boots nailed, are most suitable for the climate of Canada in winter ; and duck slops, duck trowsers, and calico or homespun linen shirts, for summer wear. Fur caps r:ay also be brought out, as they are expensive here. Any old clothes will serve during the passage out, and in travelling through the country. Beds may be taken out (without bedsteads). Curtains and curtain-rings, cords, blankets, sheets, warm rugs or coverlets, and several spare bed-licks. All these latter arti- cles are extremely dear in Canada. Scarcely any thing else need be provided, as all articles of hardware, axes suitable for the country, plough-irons, harrow-teeth, Dutch and tin ovens, tea-kettles, kettles for cooking meat in, &;c. kc. &c., may be purchased at Mon- treal at nearly the same prices as in England. i^i 12 1 tf Every thing should be well packed in strong boxes, cases, or trunks, the more portable they are the better, each not exceeding three feet in length, eighteen inches in breadth, and one foot in depth, made water-tight if possi- ble, or in barrels about the Aze of flour bar- rels, also water-tight; and all to be well lashed up or corded. Beds, bedding, curtains, &c. &c., may be sewed up in a wool-sack or very coarse harden, with a strong cord round them ; this is the most convenient and best method of taking out beds. China or other earthen- ware, may be packed in tow or the refuse of flax. All things being in readiness, p.nd the ves^ sel on the point of sailing, the emigrant will have to attend at the custom-house with his baggage for examination; with respect to which business, the captain of the ship he goes out in will give him the necessary di- rections how to proceed, and assist him through it. He will also have to take an affidavit at the custom-house. He may take his sea-stores of provisions, &c., on board his vessel at any time, placing them under the charge of the mate; as they are never ex* 13 amined by the custom-house officers. When his baggage is to be examined, he may hire a cart and take it to the custom-house, accom- panied by the captain of the vessel. After having finished his business there, he can have it conveyed in the same cart to the dock in which the ship lies, and from thence imme- diately taken on board ; one journey and one expense will thereby answer both purposes. T^ ere are several persons at Liverpool professing to assist emigrants in transacting their aflairs there. Such may, perhaps, be honest men : I would not, however, advise emigrants to employ them ; since by fol- lowing the above directions, and those of the captain of the vessel in which they are going out, they cannot err, and by being their own agents will avoid a considerable expense. All spare money must be brought out in guineas or Spanish dollars, which may be purchased for good bills at any bullion office in Liver- pool. Dollars are bought for about 4;$, 4id, or 4^. 6d. each. On the 27th of June, 1819, I sailed from Liverpool in a ship of 450 tons ; having in about half a cargo, consisting of salt, iror; and * :,. i M u Ji ft ' bricks. The steerage was formerly the cabin ; and being fitted up as cabins usually are, it was not deficient in any convenience. A sort of poop or cuddy was built, as a cabin for the captain and chief mate. Persons who are strangers to the sea will find it inconvenient to cook for themselves. It is very probable that the ship's cook may be fond of grog ; and he would perform that ne- cessary business for a wine-glass full of rum every night, and double allowances on Satur- day nights ; if, however, he should possess such a failing as not to be fond of grog, then one of the seamen might be procured. A gal- lon or two of rum, thus bestowed, would re- lieve the passenger from a deal of trouble and difficulty. It will be necessary to keep the li- quor in a very secure place, as the seamen will not lose any opportunity of stealing it, or mixing it with water. I give this caution from experience, as will be seen in the journal. Passengers should pay attention to cleanli- ness. Washing the hands and face in cold water eveiy nloming, (if fresh water is not allowed, use salt water with c'»tmeal)and keep- «' s 15 ing as much as possible on deck in the air, even in blowing weather, will contribute very much to preserve health, and prevent or re- lieve sea-sickness. A little opening medicine, as epsom salts or an electuary, may be pro- vided, and a dose taken occasionally. Passen- gers may also take out a few books for amuse- ment, and a pack of cards. It will be neces- sary to have their births or cabins well swept twice a day, and washed once or twice a week. Early rising, and a sober, peaceable, and or- derly deportment, I should also particularly recommend ; and let persons be civil to the seamen, but not familiar with them. The following sketch or journal of my voy- age may not be unacceptable, as it will afford emigrants an authentic picture of what they themselves will have to undergo in crossing the Atlantic. Although a farmer, I was not inattentive to what passed on the watery ele- ment, the source of our national prosperity and glory, and the theatre of some of the noblest achievements of my countrymen. fil- .! %. i' % u 16 CHAPTER II. I: ,1 ' t', ii • 'J II II i i Passage from Liverpool to Quebec — Newfoundland — Anticosti — Description of the Country on each side of the River St. Lawrence. On Sunday, June 27th, after day- soon light, we weighed and proceeded to sea ; the wind westerly. , Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday to Tuesday July 6th, we had contrary winds (being from S.W. to N. W. but mostly W. and W. N. W.) with thick hazy weather at times, blowing fresh with a deal of sea ; yet in that time we got clear of the Irish Chan- nel. Attacked by sea-sickness, which I soon got over by keeping on deck in the air. Tuesday, July 6th. The weather, which hitherto has been cold, is now warm and pleasant, and we have light breezes from the westward. Lat. at noon 50*^ 20' N- long, about 14^ 30' W. Two sail in sight. Thursday, 8th. Fresh breezes and hazy^ 17 with a heavy sea. Wind W. and W.N.W. A ship and brig passed us under all sail, steer- ing E.N. E. Friday, 9th. Moderate and fine. Wind N.W. by W. A long swell from the N.N.W. Lat." at noon 48° 18' N. long. 15° 30' W. being 400 miles nearly due west of Ushant. Saturday, 10th. Moderate breezes N.N.W. and fine weather. At 6, P.M. the wind .hifled to N.N.E. in our favour: hauled up W. by N. At 10 set studding sails. We have had a beating wind for fourteen days ; having never had an hour's slant of wind be- fore to-day, nor a studding sail set. Sunday, 11th. Moderate and fine. Set all the studding sails on the starboard side. Wind N.E. Course W.N.W. P.M. light winds and foggy. Monday, 12. The wind again westerly. At 6, P.M. the wind S. W. lightning in the N.N.E. At 10 fresh breezes and fine wea- ther, saw gulls. Tuesday, 13th. At 1 taken aback with the wind from the N.N.E. being the quarter where it lightned. At noon fresh breezes N. by E. and fine weather. Lat. observed, ! ■ ' ■: ■ ' I; I i\ 18 W-. i 'I ■I 46° 15' N. long. 25° 30' W. A'ship passed us steering S.S.E. The Azores at noon about 300 miles due south : gulls seen. Wednesday, 14th. Moderate breezes from the northward, and pleasant weather. Course W.N.W. P.M. wind scant. At 8 wind again favourable. Thursday, 15th. Light breezes and fine. Lat. observed 45° 37' N. long. 30° 00' W. Saturday, 17th. Light winds, nearly calm^ and fine pleasant weather. P. M. At 6 spoke an American ship from Liverpool bound to New York. Sunday, 18th. Moderate breezes from the N.W. and fine weather. Lat. observed, at noon 44° 44' N. At 6, P.M. a ship, having the appearance of a West*Indiaman, passed us under all sail, steering E. by S. Monday, 19th. Strong breezes and hazy, with a heavy swell; wind N.W. P.M. at 10, more moderate with less wind ; wind N. by W. Wednesday, 21st. Fresh breezes at S.W. bv W. several vessels in sight. P.M. at 6 > ;sh gales : spoke the Ida of London (West liiuiaman), homeward bound. Several vessels ( ( passed 1 about s from Course d again fine. W. y calm, ) spoke und to om the ved, at having passed 1 hazy, . at 10, nd N. It S.W, I. at 6 (West vessels 19 passed us, steering to the eastward. Fresh gales with a very heavy head sea ; close reefed the topsails and handed the mainsail. At 9 taken aback in a squall with the wind from the N.N.W. braced round and trimmed on the starboard tack : heavy rain. At midnight moderate breezes N. N.W. with heavy rain. Thursday, 2!2d. At noon fresh breezes N.N.W. and clear. Lat. observed, 44° 35' N. At 7, P.M. saw a brig to windward, close hauled : moderate and fine weather, with a swell from the N.W. Friday, 213d. A.M. calm and pleasant weather. Lat. observed, 43° 47' N. At 6, P.M. cloudy, with light and variable winds. A ship passed us steering to the eastward. Lightning N. N.E. Saw flying fish and gulf- weed. Saturday, 24th. At 3 a breeze from the N.E. made all sail; set studding sails on the starboard side. At noon moderate and plea- sant weather ; wind N.E. by E. course N.W. by W. Saw flying fish, bonitoes, gulls, and a deal of gulf.weed. Lat. 44° 00' N. long. 41° 30' W. Sunday, 25th. At. 4, A.M. calm ; at 8 a il w ao \ i ^ breeze from the westward. Lat. observed, 44° 04' N. long. 42° 00' W. P.M. fresh breezes with a swell from the westward : a gi'eat deal of gulf-weed seen. Monday, 26th. Wind W. and W. by S, course N.N.W. and N.W. by W. P.M. at 8 fresh breezes and squally, with a swell from the N.W. In top-gallant sails. Lightning N.E. by N. , Tuesday, 27th. Light and variable winds, and close hazy weather with rain. At 10, A.M. the wind S.W. by S. P.M. at 4, the wind N.W. At 7, a large whale playing for some time to windward of the ship. At sun- set, a violent squall from the N.N.E. with heavy rain : clewed up and handed all the sails. After- wards it blew a strong gale from the N.N.E. all night with a very heavy sea : ship lying- to under the close-reefed main-topsail, and labouring much : down top-gallant yards and struck the masts. ' Wednesday, 28th. More moderate weather; a heavy swell still continues; made sail. Wind N.N.E. course N.W. by W. Saw a brig to windward. At 8, P.M. wind N.W. Thursday, 29th, Moderate and fine. Wind ! i 1 21 W. by N. course N. by W. at noon passed a French schooner. Lat. observed, 43^ 4rN. Friday, 30th. Moderate and fine weather. At 3, A.M. a breeze from the W.S.W. a brig in company. P.M. at 5, 30, squally with rain. At 6, it cleared up : a steady breeze S.W. by W. Course N.W. by W. Long, at noon, 44° 45' W. Saturday, 31st. Moderate breezes and fine weather, with a flying fog. Wind S.W. by W. Course N.W. byW. going five knots. Lat. observed, 45° 08' N. long. 47° 00 W. At 6, P.M. a brig passed us. Sunday, August 1st. Moderate breezes W.S.W. with a thick fog. Course N.W. going three knots : saw several grampuses. At 8, tried for soundings, and found no bottom, with 110 fathoms of line. Lat. at noon, by account, 45° 5T N. At 8, P.M. hove-to and sounded in sixty-nine fathoms ; bottom, shells and small pebbles. Weather still foggy. Long. 49° 30' W. Fogs are very prevalent on the banks of Newfoundland at all seasons of the year. Seamen term them the " Newfoundland Boatswain," from their tightening the rigging K'. 1 : ■r I 22 of a ship very much, (as moisture and cold contract, and heat on the contrary stretches and expands.) Monday, 2d. Moderate breezes at west with a thick fog. At 8, tacked to the south- ward. At noon, sounded in thirty-four fa- thoms ; shells. Saw a brig to leeward. Ship about eighty miles east of Cape Race, New- foundland. Tuesday 3d. Foggy weather, with a mo- derate breeze W. by S. Course N.W. by N. At 8, sounded in thirty fathoms. At 5, P.M. spoke the La Hortence of Dieppe, French fishing-lugger. At 10, the wind S.W. by W. course N.W. going 6^ knots. Weather more clear. Passed several brigs and other vessels at anchor, fishing. Wednesday, 4th. At 8, calm and hazy. Caught two halibuts, weighing about fifty and forty pounds, and a cod-fish of thirty pounds weight. Baited first with rind of pork and a piece of red cloth; afterwards with the roe or breeches of the fish, a bait which will be taken greedily. The Great Bank of Newfoundland is 540 miles in length from north to south, and from 150 to 200 23 ^ miles in width from east to west. A great many vessels are employed annually in the fishery. The fishermen take out the entrails and cut off the heads of the fish when first caught ; rub them over with salt, and pack them in the vessel's hold : when she is full they go to Newfoundland, and there salt and dry the fish for exportation. The French have two small islands on the south coast of Newfoundland, viz. St. Pierre and Miquelon, where they dry their fish, &c. At 9j a breeze from the westward ; saw several fishing ves- sels. At 4, P.M. a large ship in sight. At 10, found the latitude by an altitude of the north polar star, to be 45° 20' N. Moderate and fine weather. Thursday, 5th. Fresh breezes, and squally with a heavy swell. P.M. at 9, 30, took the altitude of the polar star, and found the latitude to be, by Mr. Mitcham's (47, White- chapel, London) tables, and the American tables by Mr. Elford, 44° 44' N. Friday, 6th. Fresh breezes at W. course N.N.W. Latitude, by a good observation, 45° 22f N. and ascertained thereby, that the method of finding the latitude by the altitude 6 :-. J n !■ 1 !; S4 Ti 'U I I of the polar star (and working by Mr. Mit- cham*s and Mr. Elford*s methods) is correct. P.M. strong breezes from the west with a high sea. A transport passed us (No. 4 or 7.) under all sail, steering east : two brigs also passed us. Saw many grampuses. Saturday, 7th. Strong breezes at west, and clear. P. M. at 8, the wind S.W. by W. course N.W. going 6-J- knots. Sunday, 8th. Fresh gales at west, and thick weather with a very high sea. Ship lying up N.N.W. under courses and double-reefed top- sails. Saw several stormy peterels. Found my liquor-case broken open, and about five quarts of rum deficient : half of the liquor having been taken out of the case bottles, and the bottles then filled up again with water. Monday, 9th. Light breezes from the south- ward and fine weather. At 8, saw the island of St. Pierre, on the south coast of New- foundland, bearing north by compass, distant 16 or 18 miles. Made all sail ; course N.W. Set studding sails. Saw several grampuses. A schooner in sight N.N.W. At noon the island of Miquelon (fifteen miles from New- foundland, half way between Cape Race and i i .1 r 25 Cape Raye, on the south coast of it) in sight to the northward, distant twenty-two or twenty-four miles. We have this day been forty days out of sight of land. Tuesday, 10th. At 8, fresh gales and squally with rain at times, and a high, rough sea ; the sliip under close-reefed topsails and foresail. At 8, P.M. more moderate weather. At 10, lightning in the E.S.E. Wednesday 11th. At 8, light breezes from the E.S.E. and fine pleasant weather; water very smooth : made all sail, set stud- ding sails on the starboard side. A brig to windward, standing to the northward. Saw Cape Raye, distant twenty or twenty-two- miles. Many gannets (called by seamen faheV' men, from their preying upon mackarel) skim- ming over the sea. They fly in regular lines abreast close to the water's edge, and being all white, except the extremities of their wings, have a curious and picturesque appearance. We had lines out for mackarel, but caught none. Saw several snipes, resembling those common in England. Cape Raye is high land and tabled. Off the point is a small island, or rock, A few miles to the S.E. of the c ,i'^ m if : h i; ^6 Cape, is a white farm-house, and a small quan- tity of cultivated ground abi e it ; the farmer is the oniy inhabitant there: his house is about half way up the declivity of the hill (or highland), and faces the south. The country has a barren and inhospitable appearance, and is covered with stunted trees. Passed several vessels homeward bound. Thursday, 12th. Fresh breezes and squally, with a high sea. Wind N.N.W. Passed the Magdalen Islands and Bird Island (so cdled from its being the resort of gannets and other sea-fowl) in the night : then the wind came round to the northward against us. Friday, 13th. The land about Cape Gaspe in sight, and the soi th- west part of the island of Anticosti. This island is of considerable extent, being 130 miles in length and 30 in breadth ; it is not high land, and in a more happy situation its scenery would be pleasing. It is uninhabited ; the climate being too in- hospitable to admit of its being settled upon. It is covered with small trees, the dark foliage of which presents an appearance extremely dreary. P.M. fresh breezes from the N.W. I 27 "fi and squally with a high broken sea ; a brig in sight. Saturday, 14th. Light winds and cloudy. Caught several very fine mackerel, also several dogfish (an animal resembling a shark in make, but small, having a skin as rough as a line file). P.M. nearly calm, with heavy rain. At 10, fresh gales at north, and squally wea- ther ; furled the mainsail, and close-reefed topsails. The northern lights very brilliant, and casting a great light, illuminating the he- misphere from N. W. to N.E. ; they prevail here winter and summer. Sunday, 15th. Fresh breezes and cold clear weather. W'nd N.by E. Beating up between the island of Anticosti and the main. Caught several fine mackerel. Monday, 16th. Moderate and fine weather. At 8, nearly calm. Supplied, bound to Quebec with 160 passengers, the brig Jane, with provi- sions : which had been out nine weeks and their provision^ nearly expended, having been for some time on a reduced allowance. P.M. at 2, a breeze sprung up from the S.W . made all sail: set studding sails. The island of Aiiticosti and Cape Gaspe in sight. A strong current SI c U i i if! I if •: f' ■I ':', I in ft i2d sets here along the western shore. Caught several fine mackerel and some dogfish. At 10, calm. Tuesday, 17th. At 8, fresh breezes, W.N. W. and fine weather ; course north : the land near the entrance of the river, to the southward, in sight. At noon, saw the land to the north- ward about Seven Islands Bay. P.M. at 8, nearly calm. At midnight, we were abreast Ci Seven Islands Bay. Wednesday, 18th. Calm till 10 o'clock, then a breeze sprung up at west : made sail on the starbociid tack. The land on both sides in sight; that to the southward about Cape Chat is very high land. Several small birds came on board. P.M. light and variable winds, and warm pleasant weather. Thursday 19th. At 8, light airs, nearly calir, with warm, clear, and pleasant weather. The Montpeles or Bald Mountains in sight, also the land about Cape Chat at the entrance of the liver St. Lawrence. Several vessels in sight. Saw several whales. At midnight, light breezes and fine weather. Friday, 20th. At 7, 30, got a pilot onboard: a French Canadian. Moderate breezes and 29 s hazy weather. At 4, P.M. passed tlic Bald Mountains' point. At midnight, cahii. Saturday, 21st. Light airs, nearly calm, and very hazy, so that the land cannot be seen. P.M. at 1, 30, a breeze sprung up from the eastward: course W.S.W. At 7, 30, set the larboard foretopmast-studding sail. At midnight, moderpte breezes and fine weather. Sunday, 22d. At 8, saw Point Mille Vaclie to th' r» ^hward, distant four or five miles. From thence to the island of Bic or Bique, across the river, is thirteen miles. Ships take pilots there ; and the river is here about six- teen miles wide. A light breeze from the S.E.and fine pleasant weather, although hazy. P.M. at 8, fresh breezes from the S.W. and squally with h^avy rain. Up courses and hove to. At 5 0, filled again : fresh gales ^.nd squally, with i" 17 and a thick fog. At mid- night, ditto w i .t J ,er. Monday, 23d. Fresh gales at W.N.W. and hazy weather. At 3, came to with the best bower, in eleven fathoms water, off* the south shore of the river, which is here about ten or twelve mil wide ; the island of Bique bear- ing N.E. 1/ E, seven or eight miles, and vu - p ! ; i , ' ■f- (I n 30 : !« '' I 1 1: '. i ./ 1 . ; . ' ' ' ti. t . I I ! ; , 3. ' 'P i S 3d CHAPTER III. Directions for travelling from Quebec to Kingston and Hamilton— Directions for travelling from Kingston to York, the Capital of the Upper Province, 580 miles West of Quebec — How, and to whom. Emi- grants must apply for Grants of Land, or the Pur- chase of Farms — Advertisements respecting the granting of Lands copied from the Upper Canada Gazette of January 6th, 1820. Th: ..nigrant having arrived at Quebec, his first consideration will be what part of the country to settle in : and whether he be a farmer i a mechanic, or a husbandman, I should strongly recommend him to proceed without delay to Upper Canada; and to locate himself somewhere between the towns of Kingston and York, on the borders of Lake Ontario, about 500 miles west of Que- bec. The length of the journey may startle him ; but it will be greatly to his advantage to undertake it; and by adhering strictly to the following advice and directions, his expenses will not be very considerable. 40 F Ul ui 'I Many persons, both at Quebec and whilst he is travelling through the country, will officially inquire into his situation and cir- cumstances, and offer him their advice ; but he will do well not to listen tu it, as their motives most probably will be self-interested. Let him be cautious how he gratifies idle cu- riosity ; and let him rather steadily pursue the advice here given, as it proceeds from one whose motive in writing this book, is that his fellow-countrymen may reap the benefit of his experience, and not be subjected to imposition or unnecessary expense. Amherst, or the Courthouse, in the town- ship of Hamilton, Oistrict of Newcastle, ^s a small town well situated on the borders of Lake Ontario, 115 miles west of Kingston, 75 miles east of York, and about 500 miles west of Quebec. The great west or front road from Montreal to York, the capital of the Upper Province, and seat of government, passes through it ; and its neighbourhood is very eligible for settlers of all denominations. The route is as follows : Quebec to Montreal, 180 miles ; Montreal to Kingston, 180 miles ; Kingston to the head of the Bay of Quiiite, 41 75 miles ; head of the Bay of Quinte to Am- Iierst in Hamilton, commonly called the Courthouse at Hamilton, 40 miles. Exclusive of its fine situation, the city of Quebec affords scarcely BXiy thing that can either excite or gratify curiosity; the emigrant, therefore, should leave it as soon as possible. Let the vessel in which he came out be his home during his stay ; his baggage will be taken the best care of there, and he will be at no expense for a boat or cart to remove it until his final departure. Besides, if he go to an inn or public-house, he will find himself very disagreeably situated, and the charges extremely high» without a single comfort or convenience, x should advise him to depart for Montreal the very next day after his ar- rival ; or as soon as his baggage has been in- spected 071 board by a custom-house officer, for which there will be no expense, and which business he must leave to the captain of the ship. Montreal is 180 miles soiith-west of Que- bec ; seven steam-packets, pix)vided with every accommodation which passengers can require, run between the two cities : one of :, i I Hi 'i Ml V, W' 42 them leaving Quebec every other day. The largest are of 700 tons burden; and there are no vessels of the kind in the world supe- rior to them. Cabin passengers pay each about 21. 10s. sterling ; besides a very reason- able charge for their baggage, if it exceed a certain weight or quantity. For that sum they are furnished with provisions and beds, paying exclusively for porter, liquor, or le- monade. In this country no money (or vails) is ever given to waiters or servants. The pas- sage is performed in from thirty-six to forty- four hours, according as there may be more or less wind. Steerage passengers pay 15^. ster- ling, and are allowed to take a moderate quantity of baggage gratis. They find their own provisions and beds ; the remainder of their stock of provisions brought from Eng- land will serve. Going in the steerage is a very cheap mode of travelling ; the inconveniences attending the conveyance may on that account be si^'^mitted to by frugal persons : and every one vill find frugality to be very necessary in the Canadas. When the emigrant has determined upon proceed- ing to Montreal, let him go on board one Rfoi m 43 of the steam- vessels, and acquaint the captain that he intends going with him as a cabin or steerage passenger. He must then learn at what hour the vessel goes, and be on board in time; hiring a cart or porter to convey his baggage from the ship. Eighty miles from Quebec, on the north bank of the river, is the town of Trois Rivieres, near which are extensive iron works. It is necessary that every person should look well to the security of his bag- gage. A small trunk, or other light article, may easily be taken away by another passen- ger through mistake* This caution must be particularly attended to on his arrival at Mca- treal ; for as soon as the steam-vessel reaches the wharf, most of the passengers leap on shore with their portable baggage, and never return. The expenses of boarding and lodg- ing at Montreal are very considerable ; being from 5s, to 7^. Qd, a day at the hotels ; and at the boarding-houses, from 15s, to 25^. a week. Mr. Clamp's coffee-house, near the wharf, has excellent accommodation ; and Mr. Clamp, who is an Englishman, pays great attention to the comforts of those who visit his house. A short description of the boarding-houses ? 'I i 44 'I nnd small inns in this country may be ser- viceable. Boarding-houses are numerous in the cities and towns of America. Those of the first class are respectable; and at them tlie accommodation is good and agreeable, paiti- cularly in those where each of the company has a separate bed-room. The charges are a dollar, or four shillings a day. At inferior boarding-houses the accommodations are not comfortable, or convenient, or good. The company consists of all classes, from the man of independent property to the mechanic. The beds are indifferent, and from four to ten are crowded in one room, destitute of curtains, kc. and swarming with fleas and bugs. In such houses there is no such thing as comfort or privacy. Inns of the second class bear a great resemblance to the latter kind of board- ing-houses. A person may either board at them for so much a week, or pay for each meal separately : in that case the charges are extremely high : 2s. or 2s, 6d. for breakfast ; 2^. 6d. for dinner, and 2^. or 2s. 6d. for supper, without beer or liquor ; be- sides sixpence or a shilling a night for a bed in a room where are half a dozen others. It 45 must, however, be acknowledged, that the tables here are far more plentifully furnished with provisions than in England, and of as good a quality. The innkeepers in this coun- try are too independent in their principles to pay the least attention to the comfort or con- venience of their guests. They do not behave even with common civility. An Englishman, wlio expects to find that ready compliance with his wishes and wants to which he has been accustomed in England, will be greatly dis- appointed. There are no bells, as there are no servants, at the inns in this country. Thj traveller finds himself solitary, unnoticed, and left to supply his own wants. If he is loud, or peremptory, or remonstrative, he is treated in return with insolence or contempt. The chief aim of the host is to get the stranger's money; generosity and benevolence are not ingredients in his composition. Montreal is a handsome and flourishing town, pleasantly situated between a lofty mountain, of peculiar beauty, and the river St. Lawimce: it is pretty well paved and lighted, and contains about 25,000 inhabit- ants. Shoemakers, tailors, joiners, bricklay- 46 .;. I !('! ( ' V ii [ A ers, and brickmakers, might find employment here, should their money be nearly ex- pended. Should the steam-vessel in which the emi- grant came from Quebec, continue at Mon- treal twenty or twenty-four hours, he can, to avoid expenses on shore, remain on board the night following his arrival ; and in the mom ing, hire a cart in the old market-place (which is close to the wharf) to convey his baggage to La Chine, distant nine miles. There is no conveyance by water to that village, on ac- count of the rapids, and a cart may be hired for five, or, at most, six shillings. He can walk by the side of it, and order the driver to go to Messrs. Grant and Duff's, mer- chants, at La Chine, who will forward his bag- gage to Kingston, consigned to Mr. H. C. Thomson, in whose store it will be perfectly safe until his arrival. The packages must have the owner's name upon them, and be di- rected to Kingston. He must obtain a re- ceipt from Messrs. Grant and Duff, and they will be accountable for their safety. An in- ventory should be kept of the contents of every package, The emigrant will have leisure to 7 47 make out this during his passage from Eng- land to Quebec. At La Chine he can go to Mrs. Campbeirs inn. The emigrant has now the most difficult part of the journey before him, viz. that be- tween La Chine and Prescott, a distance of 120 or 130 miles. There is, however, a good road (the great west road), and farm-houses at every half mile or mile, the whole way, with inns at a convenient distance from each other. There are three modes of travelling. The most expeditious, and most expensive, is by the stage which conveys the mail: it passes through La Chine twice a week during the summer. The fare is thirteen dollars, or about 3/. sterling, from La Chine to Prescott, and the passenger is allowed the carriage of a small trunk gratis. The fare and provisions on the journey will make the whole expense amount to 31. 12s. sterling. No money is given to the driver. When the coach arrives at Prescott, passengers can pro- ceed to Kingston, sixty miles further, in a steam-vessel up the river St. Lawrence, or on foot. The second method of travelling from La I' I' 43 Chine to Kingston, is by the Batteaux or Durham boats. In that case the emigrant can accompany his baggage, as the boats be- longing to Messrs. Grant and Duff which convey merchandize, also take passengers at a moderate expense ; they finding their own beds and provisions on the way. These boats do not arrive at Kingston in less than ten or twelve days j the passengers suffer many in- conveniences and some hardships : yet for women and children this is, perhaps, the least expensive mode of travelling, as well as the most convenient. Provisions, such as biscuit, or bread and meat, should be taken from La Chine. Passengers sleep on shore at nights, either at a house, if there happen to be one near, or under a tree. They also have to land and walk where there are rapids. (Rapids are descents of the river, of greater or less extent, sometimes being upwards of a mile in length, where its bed is full of large stones, over which the current flows very ra- pidly, and breaks with violence). The third way of travelling from La Chine to Prescott and Kingston during the summer months, is on foot. For single men it is eli- gible, easy, and cheap. There are farm-houses Hr. 49 and inns on the great west road for the whole distance. By subsisting principally on bread and cheese and milk, or Sepaune and milk, the expense of each person will not be more than three shillings sterling a day ; and he may walk with ease thirty miles a day, having sent his baggage forward from La Chine to Kingston by a bateau from Messrs. Grant and Duff's. If travellers call at farm- houses, they will not be charged so much for provisions and beds as at the inns. Even women and children might travel in the same manner by easy stages, and by sometimes hiring a waggon for a few miles, which ci n always be procured of a farmer on the road. Nine miles from La Chine, the road passes through the town of Point Claire ; and nine miles further, is the ferry over the River Ottawa (four miles,) which is passed in a bateau. There is then a good road through a populous country to Glengary, a considerable Scotch settlement, about sixty miles from La Chine. Or after proceed- ing fifteen miles from the ferry over the River Ottawa, the traveller can hire a ba- teau (at a house by the side of the lake) D / II!' I 50 to take him to Glengary down the Lake St. Francis, twenty-four miles. Going that dis- tance by water would be a great relief to women and children, and the expense would not be very considerable ; especially, if by in- quiring the day when the mail would pass over, they could be in readiness to go with it. From Glengary to the town of Cornwall (the next stage) the distance is twelve or fourteen miles, and the road good. From Cornwall to Prescott the River St. Lawrence is mostly seen from the road, and between those two towns the country is thickly settled; and there are several villages. When the emigrant has arrived at Prescott, he may proceed, at a small expense, to Kingston in a steam-packet (up the River St. Lawrence), or continue his journey on foot. From Prescott to Kingston the distance is sixty or sixty-five miles ; the country is also well settled and the roads good. Kingston is a town of considerable size, agreeably situated upon a cove at the north- east end of the Lake Ontario, above the head of the St. Lawrence. It is our naval dep6t in this part of the world, and has a good har- 51 »i har- bour. In its neighbourhood are several quar- ries of Limestone. Lat. 44° 80' N. long. 75° 40' W. Should the emigrant have occasion to re- main at this town a few days to wait the ar- rival of his baggage, or recover from the fa- tigues of his journey, he will find excellent accommodation at Mr. Benjamin Alcott's inn, a quarter of a mile up the main street, lead- ing from the wharf or landing-place. Mr. Olcott is a very worthy honest man, and charges reasonably. Mrs. Patrick's inn is also well recommended ; as are Mr. Walker's hotel and Mr. Moore's coffee-house, as supe- rior houses. From Kingston to the Court-house in Ha- milton the distance is 115 miles, and the route is as follows : A steam -packet goes twice a week during tlie summer, from Kingston to the carrying- place at the head of the bay of Quinte, a dis- tance of seventy-five miles. The fare for steerage passengers is trifling, they finding their own provisions. At the carrying-place are two inns. The distance to the Court- house at Hamilton is forty miles ; the road is D 21 t ? 52 good, and the country in its vicinity well cleared and settled. At Presqisle, eight miles from the carrying- place, is Mr. Marsh's inn, and his charges are very moderate. Twenty- two miles further, at Haldemand, are Mr« Glover's and Mr. Spalding's inns. There is a good inn at Cobourg, two miles short of the Court-house at Hamilton; and two good inns at the Court-house. There is a land-board at the Court-house every Wednesday, of which Major Rogers, of Haldemand, is pre- sident. Emigrants may there obtain grants of land, on producing certificates of their having taken the oath of allegiance to His Majesty's government. Or they may pur- chase good farms in the neighbourhood, or find employment among the old settlers. But the best and most convenient method for set- tlers to proceed, is to go from Kingston to York, at the west end of Lake Ontario, the capital of the Upper Province, and the seat of government; and to apply at the office of Mr. Fitzgibbon for instructions. From that gentleman they will receive every requisite information and assistance. Should they wish to purchase farms, they would at : 53 ir. that office procure them the most readily, and on the most advantageous terms. And if they wish to receive gi'ants of land, they coiikl there take the oath of allegiance, and got their petitions to the council made out for a trifling expense, not more than seven or eight shillings. A steam-packet proceeds from Kingston tc York once a week. The fare for steerage passengers is fifteen shillings ; (they furnishing themselves with provisions,) &c. ; the distance 180 miles ; and the length of tlie passage about thirty-six hours. There are also small vessels, which take passengers and goods on vPiy moderate terms, continually going in the summer from Kingston to Ha- milton and York. I should still recommend emigrants, after having been at York, to establish themselves finally in the neighbourhood of Amherst or the Courthouse, in the township of Hamilton, in the Newcastle district, county of North- umberland ; of which a description will be given in the next chapter. After having re- ceived a grant of land at York, in a township (of which several will be ready for settling this year, 1820) in that district, the emigrant *l ■• I SI :i i Hi W' 54 might proceed by water froai York to the \iU lage of Cobourg, two miles from the Court- house at Hainiltoii, or Smith's Creek, five miles from it, in a schooner; or on foot, the dis'^ance being about seventy-five miles, the road good, with inns at convenient distances ; and the country well settled. The following advertisement is copied from the Upper Canada Gazette (published at York), of January 6th, 1820. " General Land Agency Office, York, Upper Canada." ' M: M it (( a (S (S a (i *' The subscribers hare established un of- fice? at the seat of the government of Upper Canada, for the purpose of transacting land agency busine^o of every description. " Emigrants, and rll ethers applying for lands from the Crown, can obtain every re- quisite assistance and information, to enable them to transact their business with the least possible loss of time and trouble. One of the subscribers having been appointed a commissioner to administer the oath of alle- giancej additional facility is thereby afforded I ^ 55 f< r it- le |s; in expediting the business of petitioners for " grants of the Crown lands. " This office will a/ford the easiest and " most probable means of enabling persons to " purchase or sell lands in any part of the " province. A regular register of all lands " offered for sale wdll be kept, and persons '' wishing to purchase, shall have access to it " free of expense. " No pains will be spared to make this es- ** tabL'shment of great utility to the public, " who, in their transactions with it, may " depend upon meeting with the most ready " attention. " Letters transmitted by post, are requested ** to be post-paid. " B. Geale, « J. FiTZGIBBON." The latter gentleman, who is an officer in the army, distinguished himself eminently in the late war with the United States, when their armies invaded this province ; and the utmost confidence may be placed in the honour and integrity of bot'i. The following regulations have lately been f H' i II t W" il: U ■ 56 made by his Excellency the Lieutenant-go- vernor, with respect to the granting of land in the Upper Province : this advertisement is also copied from the Upper Canada Gazette of January 6th, 1820. " Executive Council Office, York, 14th De- cember, 1819. " Whereas, it is desirable to alleviate the situation of the poorer classes of settlers, by an exemption from any charge on the patent-deed, and also to remove all obstacles from the more free accommodation of others with larger grants than have been usually made : his Excellency the Lieutenant-go- vernor in council has been pleased to order, that the first-mentioned class of settlers may receive a gratuitous grant of fifty acres; under exclusion, be it understood, from any further grant from the Crown, but with li- berty to lease the reserves. ** To meet the above gratuity, and in- creased burdens attending the purchase and distribution of lands, &c. ; it is ordered that the scale of demands on the grant of one (S a (t it a 16 a a ti 66 6( 6( 6C <( 57 <( tt hundred acres and upwards, shall be regu- lated according to the annexed table, to take effect from the 1st January, 1820. " It is further ordered, that the restriction from sale for three years be abolished ; and that deeds may issue, on proper certificates of the performance of settling duties being produced. The grantee will be required to clear one half of the road in front of each lot, and the depth of two and one-half chains from the road the whole length of every lot, and erect a dwelling-house. « FEES. CS (( it ^^^. \^ \*' ^ IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) ^, i*:,-^ e .- <^ ^ 1.0 I.I liaiM ■2.5 1^ i2ii 12.2 £f 1^ 12.0 IL25 il.4 I m Photograidiic Sdences Corporation 23 V» '<" WA!N STUliT WEBSTi;iC,N.Y. 145)20 (716)S73-4503 ^*^ 'o V > it li P li; 80 are never found in the fields, but abound in the thickest parts of the forest, generally in cedar swamps, or among young hemlock trees (a species of pine,) in their vicinity, or near a road. They are shy and artful, except when hunted with dogs trained to the diversion, when they will perch upon trees, and, with their necks extended and crests elevated, look steadily at the dog which is barking at them below, until the sportsman approaches quite close, or near enough to shoot them. When eight or ten are discovered on a tree, if a pei'- son kill the one which sits below the rest, he may shoot the whole of them afterwards, as they will not endeavour to escape. They are often found sitting on the ground., or on fallen treet. In the spring the males perch on old logs, and make a drumming noise by striking their wings together, so loud as to be audible at a considerable distance. The female pro- duces from eight to sixteen young ones at a brood. The flesh of the pine partridge, or American pheasant, is very white, and has a peculiarly fine flavour, superior, it is thought, to that of the English partridge and pheasant. These birds run swiftly, and will frequently I 81 elude the sportsman by concealing themselves (when running) behind old logs. Persons have killed from twenty to thirty of them in a few hours. Pigeons are extremely numerous from the latter part of April to the middle of October. Their plumage is blue, and in size and ap- pearance they bear a very great resemblance to the blue pigeon common in English dove- cots. Immense flocks of them visit the settled parts of this province. A gentleman here told me that he once, after harvest, caught with a net, at three hauls, thirty-two dozen in an afternoon, out of a flock of, perhaps, 150 dozen. Their flesh is good. Wild geese are numerous; as are wild ducks of several species. They abound in the lakes, particularly in Rice Lake, where they feed upon the rice, from which their flesh derives an exquisite flavour. That species called the black duck, has dark brown plumage, with glossy feathers in each wing. Six of them, which were killed at one shot with a musket, weighed in the feathers and entrails nineteen pounds. Humming-birds frequent the gardens in E 5 S2 i: i' ii I ill li is; great numbers during the summer months ; and, like the bee, they derive their subsistence from the flowers. They are the smallest of the feathered tribe, yet nature seems to have compensated them for their diminutive size, by having bestowed a peculiar beauty and elegance on their plumage and appearance. In their habits they are restless, and in their tempers extremely imtable and impatient. The rivers and lakes of Upper Canada abound with a variety of fine fish. The small- est streams are full of trout ; and every year, in the months of October and November, vast quantities of salmon are caught with spears, in the rivulets which empty themselves into Lake Ontario. In Rice Lake there is an abundance of very fine pike ; to which the settlers have given the Indian name of maskalungi ; every year, in the month of April, great numbers of these are caught with spears. Two men go out in the night in a boat, having a small iron grate, termed a jack, projecting over on one end of it, in which a fire is kept buraing : the fish are thus seen at a considerable depth; and forty or fifty, weighing from six to eighteen 1 88 pounds each, are frequently caught by two persons during the night. The forests of Upper Canada consist of pine of several species ; oak of two kinds, ash of two kinds, elm, white and red cedar> larch, called here tamarack, beech, sugar- maple, bass, hickory, lime, birch, aspen or white poplar, and alder; with iron wood, walnut, butter-nut, cherry, elder and plum trees interspersed. Pines are not found on the best soil ; they are scattered in groves throughout the forest, on light and sandy land, overtopping the rest of the trees by thirty or forty feet. The hem- lock-pine grows in general near creeks. The average height of the white pine here, from the root to the topmost branch, is 120 feet ; but it very frequently grows to the height of 160, and sometimes of 180 feet; and the largest are from nine to twelve feet in circum- ference. The hemlock is the most beautiful of the pine species. Its elegant dark green foliage, and light, spreading branches, together with the young trees springing up in rows along the remains of the fallen trunks, appear as if av-v^T f'^T'™^-^ 'FipjVWStrMt, Ldndoa. THE END* 1 ;in the Farms i every may es- 1 a pro- pounds. ij? shil- Tailors, wanted ley who success- -■■?*:' money leed not )le them essed of able to am, and Si ctremely summer inter se* onths. ^