IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) II I.I 11.25 liO |28 |2.5 2.2 ■3 Ji 14 11.6 ^^> (meaning "CON- TINUED"), or the symbol y (meaning "END"), whichever applies. L'exemplaire filmi fut reproduit grAce d la g6n6rosit6 de: La bibliothdque des Archives publiques du Canada Les images suivantes ont 6t6 reproduites avec le plus grand soin, compte tenu de la condition et de la nettet6 de l'exemplaire film6, et en conformity avec les conditions du contrat de filmage. Les exemplaires originaux dont la couverture en papier est imprimis sont fiimAs en commengant par le premier plat et en terminant soit par la dernidre page qui comporte une empreinte d'impression ou d'illustration, soit par le second plat, selon le cas. Tous les autres exemplaires originaux sont film6s en commen^ant par la premiere page qui comporte une empreinte d'impression ou d'illustration et en terminant par la dernidre page qui compoi y une telle empreinte. 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Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la m6thode. }y errata ed to }nt ine pelure, a9on d i 4: : 2 3 32X 2 3 4 5 6 5 'f /I. ■^.■-v // V. v., 1 'l ' ■Jl.^M ^ '^ /p y ^a-ij-v'' (.--.- C-C^ /^''L./ ;> <■ / /.,./-' / i.rrv-w^ ./^ V»i(l«> c'r^- .-v^A- A #•' .^ /jri r-v ti ^ X"' i'-v,-.-. " •' »•». •• iipmmctPLm um Taoc^EMomfsiB i^?i t \ on TH« INHABITANTS or THB ii^'f DISTRICT OP NIAGARA, j FOR ADDRESSING HIS BOTAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE REGENT, RESPECTING CZMM8 of SUFFEBER8 in W^ MJ^BS to MIUTMMEJ^, AND TM£ "^ QBJfERM, BEXEFIT Of UPPER CANADA^ PRINTED «aT Tfl£ JfUGABA SPECTATOR 0:PFIC£, 1818. Frke— One ShiUing, fkXiface. < I .1 gf^O^f^'T' 5 ^, 'Vo the lahabitadts of Upper Canada. 4. ■M^ I- k I Si. Catharines, District of Niagara, 6th May, 18-lt. Friends and Fellow Subjects ! 'WF4 lay bsfore you the Prineipleg and Fro- ceedin^s of the Feuple of this District, and, ex* ample being better than precept, we have now on- ly earnestly to entreat yeu to join in the cause. You will here find that we have been opposed, but opposition has st^'engthened us. H would swett too much this little Publication to give a List of Subscribers, but, they will be found week after week, in the Niagara Spectator, as room will ad- mit. They already amount to upwards of nine hundred, and are daily increasing. Many have waited for the Address, which is only this day prepared, and will be found below. CYRUS SUMIfER, JOHJV* CLdRK, ara. A true Copy, x. WILLIAM J. KERR, Secretary. ;<^"- ■¥ '$ \ l&ll. I Pro- I, ex» cause, IffweU List of t after ill ad- f nine / have day ives fop >fNiag- "Kfc^ Y. To the Resident Land Owners of Upper Canada* j«**-^<. , Niagara, April 2d, 1818. Gentlemen, Your Parliament is broken up ! — a second time broken up, from employment of the most vital import to the hunpr and well-being of the Province ! ! — Good God ! what is to be the end of all this ? For my own part» Gentlemen, I had little hope of satisfaction from the sitting of Parliament, after perusing the Administrator's speech from the Throne ; and this little was entirely extinguished with the disgusting reply made to that speech by your Representa- tives. That a man who had spent the best part of his life in Up- per-Canada, — whose every interest and affection rested here, should even read a Speech, not only containing mean sentiments, but notify- ing a measure, provoking in the extreme to the feelings of a large body of his suffering countrymen, was indeed heart-sickening : yet this was not all :— what could we expect — what sensation could swell in our breasts, when we found men, employed and paid by these very sufferers to guide their affairs and watch over their in- terests, bowing down to kiss the rod of affliction, and, in return for a most insulting offer, granting a receipt in full for demands, equally just and well authenticated ? Gracious heaven ' Did we, the offspring of early civilization — the first hope of genuine liberty — the favoured wards of divine revelation, come to this new world, only to witness the degradation of our kind, and be humbled beneath the rude savage who ranges the desert woods? — Surely , British blood, when it has ebbed to its lowest mark, will learn to flow again, and, yet sustain, on its rising tide, that gen- erous — that noble — that manly spirit, which first called forth ap- plause from the admiring world. It has been my fate to rest here nearly two months, viewing at a distance the scene of folly and confusion, — by turns serious, and by turns jocular, that the serious might not sink into the melancholy. I have advised— I have in duty offered services, but in vain : ou went the sport, till yestesday, when the cannon announced to us that the play was over ; and, now we have the second Speech of the Ad- ministrator, who has appropriately sunk down from the Throne to the Chair ! Gentlemen, the constitution of this Province is in danger, and all the blessings of social compact are running to waste. For three years the laws have been thwarted, and set aside by executive pow- er ; — for three sessions have your Legislators sat in Assembly, and given sanction to -the monstrous — the hideous, abuse. A worthy catastrophe has closed this farce of government ; — your Commons and your Peers have quarrelled, and, the latter would assert, that the constitutional charter of Canada may be trifled with. What is to be done ? Do you expect any thing from a new Governor ? — you will be disappointed. Do you expect any thing from a new eet of Representatives ? — here again you will be deceived. YourMcm- b«ri of A&setnbly ar« now at home : compare their charucUrs , i w ^^i1 :;*;«**-,,• IIQZ r Si f»s I- •4^' A !* '^'''^. r^- ( S ) / ^' Avith those around them, and you will find them equally honest—' equally wise — equally independent. Now, that they are returned to society, as private individuals, I should be the very last man to call in question their worth or their probity : they are probably every way above par. It is not the men, it is the system which blasts eVery hope of good ; and, till the system is overturned, it is vain to expect any thing of value from changt of, Representatives, or, Gov- ernors. It has been the aant of time immemorial to make mystery of the art of Government. The folly of the million, and the cunning of the few in power, have equally strengthenened the reignmg belief; but, it is false, deceitful, and ruinous. The people of every nation, may at any time put down, either domestic tyranny, or abuse, — they may at any time, lay a simple foundation for public prosperity : they have only to be honest, and, in their honesty, bold. In my last address to you, I said that the British constitution was "that beautiful contrivance by which the people, v hen perfectly virtuous, shall become all powerful." Did you mark these words ? — did you weigh them ? — they are as important as they are true. We, of all men, have least to oppose us in correcting the errors of our constitution. The British constitution has provided for its own improvement, in peace and quietness ; it has given us the Right of petitioning the Prince or ParJian>ent ; and, this Right, exercised in a proper manner, is competent to satisfy every virtuous desire. My present purpose is not to dwell on theory ; but to recommend and set example in the practice of using this glorious privilege. As Individuals, we have a right to petition the Prince or Parliament of Britain ,; and, we have a right to meet for this purpose in collective bodies. My proposal now is, that a meeting be forthwith held in each organized Township throughout the Province. I shall take upon me to name the day for the meeting of the people of this Town- ship of Niagara ; and say, that on monday next, the 13th inst. I shall be ready by 12 o'clock noon, at Mr. James Rogers' Coffee- Hoitse, to proceed to business with whoever is inclined to join me. The people of each township should, I conceive, at meeting, choose a Representative and Clerk. The Representatives should as&emble from the several Townships, within each District, on an appointed day, to draw up a petition to the Prince Regent ; and, which could, soon after, be got b.gned by every well wisher to the cduse. ;The District meetings should, without delay, hold conference by Representatives, each respectively choosing one, to meet in a Pro- vincial convention, and who should arrange the whole business, dis- patch comnjissioners to England with the Petitions, and hold cor- respondence with them, as well as with the tupreme government. Two or three ConuTiissioners would suffice ; and the necessary cost ■of carrying the whole ably and respectably into effect, would re- quire but a critiing coutribution from each Petitioner. It is not go- h\g out of bounds to reckon on ten thousand petitioners, and a dollar frewi each would make up a sum adequate for every charge, £ shiuild rvcommend the subscriptions and payments to commence at m^ ( 3 ) own the first Township meetings ; the money to be paid to the Clerk*^ who should keep in hand one seventh for local and incidental dis- bursements, and pay over the remainder to a Treasurer, to be ap- pointed in each District, by the Representatives, at their first meet- ing. Beyond making choice of Representatives and Clerks, the less that is dojie at Township meetings the better : debate, of ull things, should be avoided. The Clerks should minute transactions, and keep a list of Subscribers which should immediately be published in the nearest Newspaper within the Province, and week after week, in the same manner, should be reported, additions. The public would thus, at once see the strength and growth of the cause, as well as have vouchers for the payment of cash. Every transaction should be plain, downright, and open to view or inspection, — every principle should be declared — every proceeding be made knovvn. The simplicity of all this, and the ease with which it may be ac- complished, is obvious : to go into more minute detail, at present, would be wasting time. No man, by joining the cause can lose more than a Dollar, and no responsibility whatever is incurred. — As I take upon me to name the day of Meeting for this Township of Niagara, so that Meeting may appoint days for th6 meetings of other Townships, and, for the District meeting ; seeing, tliat it can be matter of no consequence who settles such points, provided the busi- ness, thereby, has a fair chance of commencement, and that the wholi? system of petitioning may proceed without doubt or delay. No man upon such solemn occasion should say " I am greater thait another, and will not be seen acting with him :" no one should suy '' 1 am less, and therefore presume not to set myself forward." On such an occasion, and under such circumstances as the present, every party, and every personal prejudice, should be put down, every eye should be resolutely bent on the one thing needful — a radical change of sys- tem in the Government of Upptr-Canada. I address myself particularly to Landowners, because their inter- ests are most deeply involved ; but every man resident in Canada — every man who is a lover; of peaces — who desires to see this country independent of the United States — who desires U see a worthy con- nection maintained between this Province and H .^dn ; — every man, in short, who has a sparkof sincerity or patriotisr in his soul, has HOW sufficient cause to bestir himself. There was a time when Israel was famished with intense drought. Day after day, and week after week, the uncovered sun rose, only to frighten the nation, and open more wide the yawning fissures of the scorched earth: — there was yet however faith in Israel ; and the faith of a few brought, at last, salvation to the expiring multi- tude. Let not the ancient record be lost to these modern days ; — let not the signs and figures of the material- world bo thrown aside as vain emblems, illustrations, and manifestations of the will, the powtr, and the goodness of God. He never deserts his creatures while they are true to themselvs, and faithful to him, — while they honorably put to use the divine gifts of rationality. The course to be pursued, by the people of tliis Province, at the present juncture, 1 ; R »l ( * ) I .-m h is 80 clear, that he who runs may read : they have only to put trust in the success of their own virtuous endeavours ; and, success •will as surely follow, as day tucceeds to night — Yes, worthy in- habitants of this Township of Niagara, you may begin the necessa- ry work with confidence : — ihe little cloud which rose from the hor- izon, at first no bigger than a man's hand, gradually expanded— mantled over the relentless face of a burning sky, and at last show- ered down refreshment on the thirsty land. The good which may result, not only to this Province, but to the general cause of truth, should these proposals be cheerfully and a- lertly adopted, surpasses all calculation. It would be needless for me now to descant on the subject. If there is really no public spirit in the country, I have already thrown away too much of my time : if there is, let it now be shown, for never was occasion more urgent. If the people of Canada do not now rouse themselvs, they m^.y in- deed have plenty whereon to exist ; but, to that " righteousness ** which exalteth a nation" they will have no claim. The farmer may plod over his fields, — the merchant may sit drowsy and dull, in bis store ; but, the life, the vigour, the felicities of a prosperous and happy people will not be seen in the land : — the superiority of public management in the United States, will bother all hope of competition : America will flourish, while Canada sinks into com- parative decay ; and, another war, will not only bring with it waste and destruction, but ignominious defeat. In the scheme proposed I will accept of no appointment ; but, persons acting in it shall have my utmost assistance, and I shall make clear to them everj course to be pursued. As soon as mat- ters come to a head, all information, collected by me, shall be at the disposal of the Commissioners ; and even better consequences may be expected from this popular movement, than any that could have followed from the Parliamentary enquiry, had that been allow- ed to proceed. It will shew, that though the rights of Parliament may be trifled with, those of the people of Upper Canada, are not so easily to be set at defiance. The Assembly of the Lower Province, is to petition the British Parliament as to their trade : your Representatives are to petition the Regent as to their privileges : when I found my petition set a- side and dispised at York, I dispatched one immediately to be pre- sented to the House of Commons in England, to call atfention there, to Canadian affairs i — all this will go for little, if something else is not done. You have read in the Newspapers of my scheme having been discountenanced by Ministers at home : you have read of spec- ulations upon making the best bargain with the United States for these Provinces. I know whence all this proceeds : I know what would open the eyes of the people and government at home to the true value of the Canadas, and put an end to such unnatural — such disgusting surmises ; and all this I shall be happy to explain, as soon as explanation can be useful. One thing 1 am very sure of, that if the people of Canada will only do their duty as honest men, and as brothers, in unity, not only every just claim may be paid by ( « ) * next Christmas, but a foundation may be laid for this Provinre be* coming speedily the must flourishing and secure spot, on the habit- able globe. ROBEllT GOUllLAY. Niagara, /Ipril 15, 181B. Which day a numerous Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town- ship of Niagara, having been held at the House of Ja mes Rogers, and DAVID SECORD, Esq. m. p. being called to the Chair, the Address of Mr. Gourlay, to the Resident Land Owners of Upper Canada, dated April 2d, 1S18, was read over, and its whole tenor and sentiments unanimously approved of. In conformity to the re- commendations therein contained, the Meeiting proceeded to electa Representative and Clerk, when Robert Hamilton, of Queenston, Esquire, was appointed to (ill the former situation, and John Ross, of Niagara, Esquire, the latter. A committee also was appointed to forward the views of the Meeting, viz ; Timothy Street, John Hagan, Wm,. G. Hepbitrne, and Robert Moore, Esquires. Monday, 20th of this present month, was named as a proper day for the meetings of other Townships within the District of Niagara, and Monday 27th for the Meeting of the Representatives from the various Townships, to be held at Shipman's Tavern, St. Catha- rine : the Committee duly to advertize the same, and take such steps, as to them shall appear requisite for furthering the good cause. The thanks of the Meeting were then unanimously voted to David Secord, Esq. for his public spirit in coming forward, on this occa- sion, and liberally fulfilling the duties of the Chair. DAVID SECORD, Chairman. A true Copy, John Ross, (/e;A. TO THE PUBLIC. It having been stated to me by some of my friends, that the pub- lic mind was impressed with the idea of my having participated in, and sanctioned the recent improper and unwarrantable publications of Mr. Robert Gourlay ; I conceive it a duty which I owe to tha Government, to the Province, and to myself, to declare, that be- yond publishing a statistical report of this Province, he had neither T^y approbation nor my countenance. In making this declaration, I trust that the tenor of my life jus- tifies my asserting that factious discontent never originated in my breast. Having said this much in vindication of my own sentiments, I shall, in order to prevent error in, and rescue from distress the heedless proselytes of Mr. Gourlay's *'one thing needful — viz. a ra- ' dical change of system in the government of Upper Canada," tran- scribe for their information, an extract from the common law of the British Empire, which bears on the point of unlawful meetings or conventions, viz. " The constitution of Great Britain having plac- " ed the represeutatioa of the nation, and th« expressiou of the iia- < I jjSBH-- *x V 9 h .' . '} ' ( 6 ) *' tioiml vrlll, in the Parliament, no other meeting or convention, "even of every indivuhiul in the Kingdom, would be a competent " organ to express that will ; and meetings of such a nature, tend- " ing merely to sedition, and to delude the people into an imaginary "assertion of rights, which they had before delegated to their He- " presentatives in Parliament, could only tend to introduce anarchy "and confusion, and to overturn every settled principle of Govern- *• ment." An act of Parliament was passed in Ireland, in the year 1793, to prevent any such meetings or conventions ; and a few ig- norant individuals, who in the same year had dared to assemble un- der that title in Scotland, were quickly dispersed, and their leatieis convicted of seditious practices ; for which they were sentenced to transportation. I shall conclude with recommending to all, to weigh well how they attend to visionary enthusiasts. THOMAS CLARK. Kiogara, April 18, 1818. - PUBLIC JS'OTICE, If In consequence of a lianbill having this day appeared, signed hy the Honorable Thomas Clark, of the Legislative Council, in which an attempt is made to stigmatize the principles adopted by the Ni- agara meeting, the committee, appointed by that meeting, recom- mend the people of other townships, (where any doubt may exist in ronsequence of Mr. iChn'k's handbill) to postpone the election of their llepresntatives until a future day of meeting is advertised. Great as the necessity is for an instant appeal being made to the Supreme. Government, regarding the state of Upper Canada, the committee would, by no means press any measure until its legality is proved, and its propriety fairly established in the public mind. They pledge themselves to shew, in a few days, that they are not only right in what they have done ; but, that the Hon. Thomas Clark is grossly mistaken. ' (Signed for the Committee,) ROBERT HAMILTON. ' Niagaraj April i^, 18\S. . ! " . ^" V, Till there is time for further proof, the followbg will testify the Btrange inconsistency of Mr. Clark. To the Clerk of Township Meetingy 13th April, 1818, at Niagara. Queenston, 13th April, 1818. Sir — You will herewith receive two dollars, one of which is Ihe subscription of the Hon. Thomas Clark, for the purpose of defray- ing the expenses of carrying a Petition to the Prince Regent, rela- tive to the situation of this Province, the other dollar for the same purpose, from your most obedient humble serv't. (Signed) W. G. HEPBURNE. ' '^■f' ( r ) Wf, certify, that we saw Mr. Clnrk, give the dollar above men', tioned, to Mr. llepburne, for the purpose also aluwe Hpecilied. (Signed) CTl I lOs. DICKSON, \MES KEUiiY. Grantham, Jpril 20, 1818. This day a numerous meeting of the Inliabitants of the Township of Grantham, having been held at the house of Paul Shipman, and Geo. Adams, Esq. being called to the chair, spoke in substance as follows, Gentlemen, " I am happy to see so many of you assembled here this day on the present occasion. You have heard the address of Mr. Robert Gour- lay read : you have likewise heard the address of the Hon. Tiiom- as Clark, and as it has been your unanimous vote, thatl should be called to the chair, I beg to make a few remarks on the bufincss be- fore us. I assure you, Gentlemen, if there was the least appear- ance in any one sentence of Mr. Gourlay's address tending to sedi- tion, I would be the last person to come forward to support it. You •observe, Gentlemen, that in the address of the Hon. Thos. Clark, to the public, he endeavours to impress on your minds, that our meeting together tends to sedition, but allow me to say, it is an er- roneous opinion. I have been 'acquainted with you twenty-four years, and so has that Hon. Gentleman, particularly in the late War with the United States of America, when you all went forward and exposed your lives and property in defence of your King and Country. Gentle- men, your loyalty is not, and cannot be shaken by the a^ . The following toasts were given, — by the Chairman. ,• . ; ' " The King," (with cheers.) ,, i' •..> "The prosperity of the Province of Upper Canada." ' ' ' By William H.Merritt, Esq. — " May every Township contribute its aid to the prosperity of the Province." By Mr. G. A. Ball — " May the navigable waters of the Province be speedily improved." By J. Clark, Esq. — " May the adherents of Mr. Gourlay, be ever •ncQuraged in their virtuous proceedings." By Geo. Adams, Esq.—" The Administrator." ■ By Mr. Gourlay—" May the Representative of His Majesty ia Upper Canada, ascend from the Chair to the Throne." i . Some of the company desiring an explanation of this toast, Mr. G. rose and replied, that, as unworthy views had been attributed to him, and as such meetings as they had this day held — rf eetings for the pure purpose of petitioning the sovereign, had been stigma- tised as illegal and seditious, he gave this toast as the most loyal which he could possibly think of for the occasion. The Administra- tor having ia his speech to Parliament, expressed himself as addres- sing that body *• from the chair" had virtually deprived the Prov- ince of the Royal presence and let down the dignity which it was his duty to maintain. This was a matter of more consequence than might at first be sup- posed. On the part of ministers at home there was a glaring indif- ference to the concerns of these Provinces; and when public prints — ventured to hint at the bartering them away to the United States for their value in cash, it was high time for the people here to sup- port their own dignity by marking e-,^: y step toward* their degrada- i « ) tiiui. True loyalty, did not consist in mere passive submission : it consisted in watching over every part of the constitution, at once, with Jealousy and aiiection. By G. A, Ball. — " May our Representatives undergo a reforma- By the Rev. INIr. VVilliains, — " May morality and religion en- cretise throughout tlie Province, particularly m the township of (•"vauthani" (by a wag, in addition) "where there is so much room,." By George Adams, Esq.—" May the United Enemies of the Unit- ed Kingdom of Groat Britain aiid her dependencies be drowned in this (h-aughi"— (Cheers.) ' .;, , . . ,4. .M^j^ «^qtefc^*s^ ~^* j^o„,^ jpril20th, 1818.^ This day a numerous meeting of the Inhabitants of the township of Louth, was he hi at the house of Robert Runchie, when the Ad- dress of Mr. Rol)ert Gourlay, to the Resident Laid Owners of Up- per-Canada, dated April 2d, 1818, was read over ; also, an Address to the Public, signed by tite Tionorable Thomas Clark, and a countra Addrossto the Public signed by Robert HamiltoH, Esquire, Repre- sf ntative for the township meeting of Niagara, when the whole tenor arul sentiments of Mr. Gourlay's Address was unanimously approve ed of. In conformity to the recommendations therein contained, the n»eeting proceeded to electa Representative and Clerk, when JOHN CLARK, of Louth, Esquire, was appointed to fill the former situa- tion, and William; J. Kerr, Esquire, the latter. The thanks of the Meeting were then unanimously voted to Mr. Robert Gourlay, for his able assistance in behalf of the Province. ,« Bj/ order, , ^ (Signed) JOHN CLARK, Representative. ^ A true copy ;>;^''; William J.Kerr, Clerk. "iil,:T^- ' ' """ , . Stamford, Jpril 20th, ISIS. '^ At a numerous meeting of the Inhabitants and Landholders of the township of Stamford, held at the house of A. Rorback, Jonw Hardy, Esquire, being called to the Chair, it was unanimously agreed, that we Petition the Prince Regent, for the losses we sus- tained in the late war, and such other grievances as we labor under. The meeting proceeded to elect a Representative and Clerk, when JOHN J. LEFEERTY, was appointed to fill the former situation, iind Hugh M'Clieve, the latter. A committee also was appoint- t?d to forward the ^/iews of the Meeting, viz : Frederick Smith, John Jidvcison, James Thompnon and Abraham Bowman. The thanks of the meeting were then unanimously voted to John Hardy, Esq. for Iiis public spirtf, in dlSttiing forward on this occa- .«iion, and fulfillinii the duties' of the Chair. JOHN HARDY, CA«ima/i. ii^V ,5'. A true copy, Hugh M'Clieve, Clerk. ^\\: Gainsborough, April 20th, \0}i' .\t,a meeting of the Inhabitants-of the township of IJaiiYS'Jorough B i.«.f ' ■v ' I ,1 f ' i ■ f 1 • 'l« -•^.^ J % ( to ) «} <■*) held agrff able to the notice and reconitnendation of the Inhabi- tants of Niagara township, for taking measures for petitioning the Prince Regenl, regarding the state of the Province — John I.Tay- LOi(, was called to thf; chair. Mr. Gourlay's Address, dated the second day of April, 181S, was then read over and its principles apj)roved of; whereupon JOHN KENNEDY, sen. <>ras chosen Repr*- sentative, and George Shipmav, Clerk. A committee to for- ward the business within the township, was then appointed, consis- ting of George Hensdt Charles Kennedy, Williapi Dili and Benajah Williams. JOHN I. TAYLOR, Chairman, George Sjii^man, C/erA:. » , ^ ,, 'if'.' ^ , • : Bertie, j^prii 20th, 1818. A numerous meeting of the respectable inhabitants of this town- ship, having been convened at the house of MattbinsFIaun, Tho- VAS Otway Page, E^q. being called to the ch^ir, the Address ofMr. Gourlay, and other papers to the Resident Land Owners of Upper Canada, dated April 2d,1818,wei-e read over, and their whole tenor and sentiments unanimously approved of. In conformity to the recommendations therein cont£iined, the meeting proceeded to elect a Representative and Clerk, when VVm. POWELL, of Bertie, Es- quire, was appointed to 61] the former situation, and John Apple- garth, of Bertie, the latter. The thanks of the meeting were then unanimously voted to Tho- mas Ot. Page, Esq. for hi^ public spirit in coming forward on this occasion, and liberally fulfilling the, duties of the Chair. THOs. OTWAY PAGE, C;iairwfl«. A true copy, J. Ap^legarth, C/erA:. At a second meeting of this Township, it having been reported that it was inconvenient for Wm. Pow|:ll, Esq. to attend to the duties of Representative, it was then unanimously voted, that John Baxter, Esq. do take upon him the duties of that office, provi- ded Wm.Powel Esq. do not attend to it. Having been found necessary that a Committee should be chosen, to forward the views of the meetmg, David Dameuoodf Charles Hill and Henry Wan en were elected to, fill that office. The thanks of the meeting were unanimously voted to Mr. Robert Gourlay, for his unparallelled generosity, i(n- skips the business of choosing Representatives and Clerks, has been al- ready done, but the Newspaper of to day, cannot give publicity to more than three. Those Townships which postponed their business on the suggestion of' the Committee are now requested to meet for choosing Representatives and Clerks on Saturday SECOND of May, 12- o'clock ifnootlier Notice is sent round ; and at all events, the Representa- tives and Clerics from the various Townships are requested to meet at Skipman's Tavern St. Catharines on Monday ^th of May, 1 \ o'clock forenoon — bring with them their lists of subscribers, and the contribU' tions. A treasurer will that day be chosen — and a Petition be drawn up to lay before the public for amendment or remark. A true copy (For the Committee,) ROB^RT HAMILTON. , John Ross, Clerk, *f • As the Public throughout the Province cannot be so well informed of all circumstances as they are in this District, the Committee give the following extractsfrom a letter written by Mr. Gourlay, which ap- peared in the Niagara SptCtator of the 23d April, in support of their principles, and they doubt not, but these, with the sentiments expressed by individuals at Township Meetings, will be quite sufficient to settle all question on the subject, wherever any may be started. ** The right of petitioning is one of the grand articles of the Bill i of Rightr> solemnly passed into law, when the British people had driven one Sovereign from the Throne, and were about to esta- blish in it another more agreeable to their will. No act of Parlia- ment is half so sacred as this — the second great charter of British liberty. It emanated purely from the people, uninfluenced by Sov- ereign Power, or unswayed by domineering aristocracy, and the a;ra which gave it birth stands emblazoned in history as our GloriousRe- volution. The Parliament of Britain has never questioned this great right of the People, and the people are in the constant habit of exer- cising their right. The meetings of last year in £ng!and, at some of which 20,000 people were collected together, were all held under this grand constitutional privilege, and not a question was made re- garding their legality. The Parliament of Britain never attempted to suppress even the Spaw -fields meetings, which excited in the ^ minds of some, the greatest alarm, and, I, myself, was in the House of Commons, when Lord Folkstone presented a petition from one of these mee tings.on the evening of the very day on which it was held." *'What is all this whichMr.Clark has set before the public of Up- per Canada, as a bugbear to fA^ighten them out of the exercise of their most sacred right i — what is this quotation from the Statute book ? Mihat are these stories to us, which concern the Irish rebel • lion and the conviction of Traitors ? Is it possible that Mr. Clark could seriously believe that he could for any length of time impose, even upon the ignorant, or appal the timid, with recitals of this na- '..J I ; ). ^ •/ : . *■■ -,'; ( 12 ) mt, ture ? Can any man read the Act of Parliament wljjch he hfis quoto^, and not perceive, that it hds no eye whutever to iieaceable iiu^etin^.s. The Act clearly specifics the sort of iiiectin;;:s which it was fruuid to repress — meetings " tending merely to sedition, mid tu delude the " people into an imaginary assertion of rif^hts." In the name otciod, I ask, where is the symptom of sedition to be discovered in this l'r«i- vince? Unless from the mouth of the Hon. Thomas Clark, I uvwr lieard a breath in Upper Canada which could, b> the rumotc&t con- struction, be applied to any thing of the kind. — 'Ihe pure und ardent loyalty of the people here has been one strong influence with me in exerting myself tow^irds' improving the connection of Ca- nada with the mother country, and it excited in me peculiar ft.elini,s of disgust, when I read in the newspaptys, that surnnses wore on foot for bartering away such people, like slaves, to the United Statis. If I am guilty of sedition, why does not the Hon. Thomas Clark do his duty and bring me to trial? ]\j[i>. .Clark knew of the Niagaia meeting, and of my being present there, yet he suffers lue to go at large to advise and attend other nxcetings, — hay, not only am 1 go- ing at large and doing all this, but I dare the highest Magistrate in the Province to liy hands upon n)e. 'J'ljore is thus no alternative for Mr. Claik, but either to do his^([|uly, and arnst ine, or to leave me alone and thereby satisfy the Morld that he has been ■wofully imposing on the jiiiblic by assailing niy conduct and prin- ciples — wofully and wantonly srandalizinj the rights of lite (a- . iiadian people. Doubting that the ignorant and timid might not be sufficiently astounded with a quotation of law, Mr. Clark * seems to expect that my "heedless proselytes" will be tiriven from their nicetings and appalled, for ever, by a reference to an Irish act of Parliament, and a hint, as lo what btt'cU the ignor- ant in Scotland. In the year 1793, every body knows, thtit rebel- lion was nearly bursting out ln)th in Great Biitain and Ireland ; and rvefy body know^s that soon after this, it did break out in the lutUr. I myself visited Ireland in the midst of its fiercest rebellion, when 1 was allowed to land and pass along, only froii» being known to the commander of the Kings troops. Iliad, thus, better opportunities than Mr. Clark, of bemg acquainteti with the state of that country, and the necessity for strong measuresj on the part of government ; and I was still better informed, than lie could possibly be, of the sit- uation of thmgs in Scotland. I attended the tiial in Edinburgh of one of the chief ofienders, and remember well, on what grounds he and others were transported. They were charged with holding secret meetings, with administering oaths of secrecy, and having warlike arms in preparation for carrying their detiigns violently into execu- tion : who would not wish to see men convuncd of such practices, *' sentenced to transportation ?" Have I done any thng of this sort.' Have I held secret meetings r have I sworn any one to secrecy, or, been an advocate for oaths? have lor my proselyte? uuy thing to do \Tith warlike arms ? Mercy o« us, for, by and by, the lion*Thoma3 - Clark will accuse us of sedition for euLing our food, and, of treason, for meeting together, in Church, to put up our prayers to the ^\1,- mighty !" . or. ( 1*8 ) " One part of Mr. Clark's placard has stirred up doubt, 1 find, in ' more thuu himself, 1 mean, his quotation of my words, "a radical change of system in the government of Upper Canada." Theife are some peojjle so nervous — so very sensitive, that reason has nu- tliing to do with their actions or impulses. A wortliy professor ^ of bt. Aiidrew's College, sat one morning in his elbow chair, while .his wile reached the tea-kettle to the fire. A drop fell on the pro- fessors leg. He saw the tire and black bottom of the kettlo at one glance. The association of scalding was instantly fermed, and the impulse was irresistable : he leaped to the floor, in agony, and storm- «(l at his wife for the pain he sutftred. When he had sufficiently vjtjuied his groans and his spleen, "sit down" said his patient part- ner in this world's misery "sit down and bless' yourself, my dear, for the water was but tliis moment drawn from thtj well." "The word, government, may be variously applied : — to the frame of government — the constitution; or, to the mode of carrying on the government — the management — the administration. In Britain we Ajover tbink of petitioning for a change of government in the first fcense — a change of constitution. \\e are all pleased with the c«)n- .•■litution; but we roar loudly, and petition often, against the gy- vermnent, taken in the latter sense — the management — the admiu- jstration. To petition for a change of Government in Upper Cana- da IS quite different: — here we may safely petition for a change of goverrunent, in every sense of the word. The government or con- stitution of Upper Canada rests merely on the authority of a Brit- ish act of Parliament ; and all that is constituted thereby is subject to repeal, by the same power which enacted it, as the words of our consitutional statute expressly indicate. The constitution of Upper ! Canada is to continue only " during the continuance of this act" and • should we petition for a change of government bore, we do nothing more than is done ever}' day at home, for a repeal or amendment of an act of the British Parliament." *****#«***♦* "But the words did not go to the extent imagined. I speak of " a change of system in the government." What isi/i the government, cannot be the government: the wine in a bott'e, is not the bottle. Through all my writings, it will ie found that! spoke tjf the syAfcw/, and sometimes I identified this system, with that which ruled by Ui - Clinton, April 27, 1818. This day a numerous Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Township of Clinton, was held at the house of Richard Hill, when tlie Ad- dress of Mr. Robert Gourlay, to the Resident Land Ownerb of Up- &^ ■w*",, i j)cr Canada, dated April 2d, 1818, was read, and the whole tenor ^4Uid sentiments therein contained, were unanimously approved of ;•— iwhenJoHN Beam, was appointed Chairman. — The meeting then . 'proceeded to tlect a Representative Sp Clerk, when Dr. CYRUS SUM- MER, was chosen to fill the former situation, and Jacob Beam •the latter. A Committee was a/so appointed to forward the views «f this meeting, viz : James Doddif, George Morris^ John Comfort ^ J^eter Hare Juu, and Perez Dean. — The thanks of the meeting were voted to Mr. Robert Gourlay, for the disinterested manner in which he has come forward in order to promote the interest and wel- fare of this Province. The thanks of the meeting were then unani< mously voted to Mr. John Beam, for his regular conduct in the Chair. JOHN BEAM, Cha*1^ Jacob Be. AM, Clerk. ■ Grimsby, April 27 1 ISIB. This day a meeting of a number of the Inhabitants of this Town- ship, was held at the house of Charles Anderson, for petitioning the Prince Regent with regard to the state of the Province. The meeting was regularly constituted by calling JONATHAN WOLVERTON to the Chair, and the meeting proceeded, accor- ding to the recommendations of Mr. Gourlay, in his address to the Resident Land Owners of Upper Canada. " '" , Mr. Henry Hixon, was chosen Representative to meet with others and concert measures, for carrying the same into execution. Dennis Wolvertok, was chosen Clerk ; aUo a Committee to forward the business of the 1 ownship, consisting of John Moore^ Daniel Camp^ William Bridgeman and Jo^n t' ith. The smile of ap- probation appeared visible on every countenance and the whole meeting was conducted in harmony and good order. JONA'N WOLVERTON, Chairman. A true copy, Dennis Wolverton, Clerk. * ■' Caistor, QBth jipril, 1818- This day the Inhabitants of Caistor. and Canborough, having met at the House of Mr. John Lymbnrner, to take measures for pe- titioning the Prince Regvnt, according to the principles approved of by the Inhabitants of Niagara Township, met at that place, the thirteenth Instant, Samuel Birdsall, was called to the Chair, WILLIAM ROBERTSON, Esq. was unanimously elected Repre- sentative, and Mr. John Lymburner, Clerk.—- A Committee for aiding the business within the said Townships was also formed, con- sisting of Messrs. Peter Melick, Matheto Umith, William Stevenson, jSLud Mat hew Lymburnery jun. 5AMUEL BIRDSALL, Chairman, . A true copy, J. LtJiiburker, Clerk. At« numerous meeting held at Bucket's Mill in the Township of Pclbam, theS^th April, 1818, pursuant tp the recommendations of louj^ Da] porl Re( J A tiv| bus! cob\ e tenor 1 of ;— fig then i sum- Beam views ng were inner in ind Wei- ll unani- in the 1818. is Town- ning the VTHAN accor- ss to the eet with Kcculion. mittee to t Moore, ile of ap- [)e wbole irman. 1818. 1, having es for pe- ap proved >lace, the he Chair, ;d Reprp- mittee for rnied, con- Stevensotif airman, uwnship of idations of . ( *5 ) . the Niagara meeting held on the 13th Inst. Thadkvs t^ATls, was called to the Chair, when the whole ^enor and eentimento of.Mr.Rb- Lert Gourlay's address to the Resident Land Owners of Ufiper Ca- nada, dated April 2d, 1818, was read over and unanimonsly ap- proved of. The meeting then proceeded to appoint a Representative and Clerk, when JOHN HENDERSON, was appointed to fill the former situation, and Moses Brady, the latter. A committee also was appointed to forward the views of the meeting, viz : Messrs. Samuel Becket, IFilliam Hendeison and ChriS' topher McCalpin. The thanks of the meeting were unanimously voted to Mr. Robt. G^urlay, for his disinterested exertions in behalf of the Province, likewise the thanks of the meeting. to Mr. Thad- deus Davis, for his public spirit in coming forward to fill the Chair. THADDEUS DAVIS, Chairman, A true Copy, Moses Bradt, Clerk. ■*.-■■■ Thorold, April 29th, 1818. This day a numerous and respectable meeting of the Landholdens and other Inhabitants of this Township, having been held at the house of Mr. Aaron Crane, it was agreed to unite in the endeavours of other Townships, to represent the state of this Province to His Royal Highness the Prince Regent — itiereupon the meeting was re- gularly constituted by calling Mr. Ebenezer Cavers, to tl^e Chair. GEORGE KEEPER Esq. j. p. was elected to act as Representr ative for the people of this Township. Mr. William McClellen to act as Clerk. To forward the business within the Township, the following persons were chosen a Committee, viz ; — John Street, Ebenezer Cavers, Jacob Upperp Thomas Bald^jun. Garrett Vanderburgh, Geo. Martatt. The Thanks of this meeting were unanimously voted to Mr. Robt, Gourlay, for his active exertions in behalf of this Province. Also, to the Chairman, Mr. Ebenezer Cnvers, for his public spirit incom^ ing forward to fill the duties of the chair. ^ EBENEZER CAVERS, Cha'n. . A true copy, W. McClellen, C/erA:. Willoughby, April 30, 1818. This day a meeting of the Inhabitants of the Township of Wil- loughby having been held at the house of John Palmer, and David Davis being called to the chair, it was unanimously resolved to sup* port the measures recommended in Mr. Gourlay's Address to the Resident Land Owners of Upper Canada, dated 2d April 1818, when JAMES CUMMINGS Esq. was unanimously chosen Representa- tive and Jacob Gander, Clerk. A committee to forward the business within the Township was then appointed consisting o{ Ja- cob Everett, John Lemon, Henry Hetch and Benjamin Sharp. DAVID DAVIS, Chairman. A true copy, Jacob Gandes>, Clerk. ■- •fit h •■X.-1|»»' II .1 , ( 1« )■• 'Af* '^'jtrrf. •:T i^ -■ nUmberstone, Ut of May, ]S18. I'hisday a secrtnti Arceting.,ot" the Inluibitantsof HiHiiherstone and the Lake side of Wainllcet, having been heUl at the i iouee of Christian Zevitz to take into Consideration the slate of the Provinre and the propriety of Petitioning the Prince P.egent, respecting the same, Mr. Benjamiv Horton in the Chair — It was agretd to conHrm the ai^pointment of Mr. MORTON to art as Hepresentativf, and Mr. Benjamin IIersey, Clerk. — A Committee was ahf^ formed consisting of Jmo/> Luse, /ibrahnm Heney, John Ifcaxcr and Ahrahum Kawaird, to carry thebusiness into efl'ectin the Township. '%vi■.r^ Hi ?tH>.j^«-»f BENJAMIN MORTON, Chairman, ■iii. -iii A tVue copy, Benj. Mersey, Clerk. ,i#. • ,v;3^^ ,vn '^Atr H'. J/l Croxi-UimU May 1 , 1 8 1 S. Which day a numerous meeting of the Inhabitants of the Town- ship of CrowhuKi, having been held at Cook's Mills and Calvin Cook heirjg calliul to the (Jhair, the address of Mr. Courlay to the Rosiflent Land Owners of U}fj)ivf('ana(la, dated April i2d. 1818, was read over and its whole tenor and sentiments unanimously approved of. In conformity to theiecoaimendations therein cc-niained, the meet- ing proceeded to elect a Representative and Cleik, when .JOSEPH COllJiENTwas appointqd to till the former situation and Samuel (iLOVEu'the latter. A committee was also appointed to foiward tlie views of the meeting viz. Jacob Brookfield, William Cook, Leon- ard Misncr, and Christopher Buchner. The thanks of the meeting were then unanimously voted to Cal- vrx Cook for his public spirit in coming forward on this occasion and liberally fulfilling the duties of the Chair. ^^ (Signed) CALVIN COOK, Chm'n. . * A true copy, Samuel Glover, Clerk. At this meeting Crowel Wilson, Esq. J. P. was proposed as Representative, but declined, owing to the present st^vte of his health. He came forward however as a subscriber, and delivered a most spirited address to the people, which unhappily cannot have suffi- cient justice done to it in .this report — tn substance he said. "I know, friends and neighbours, that all British subject!? inherit the right of petitionitig the Throne, for redress of grievanres, and I con- ceive that meeting together, in this friendly and peaceable manner, for that purpose, may be attended with most •beneficial effects to the Inhabitants of this Province. *'*¥; '''■'■:', ^'V ^^•■'-' •• vy •"'■: - The law quoted by my much esteemed friend the Hon. Thomas Clark, does not regard meWings assembled for the peaceable exercise of petitioning even in Britain ; but here, at any rate, it can have no more force than the lawspf Japan or China. This law was made in 1793, but before that date the Inhabitants of Upper Canada, had received a power of legislating for themselves. Our first step might have been to Petition the Provincial Parliament, as t(» the public grievances ; but the different branches of Parliament havQ quarrelled and our members of Assembly have neglected us. Our only resource now is to petition the Throne, and for my part I ajjvi'.' / cat wi to I '\ ■^»..:^-- 18. rstone •use ol" mince ' ig tlie Bffi to ■ tative, •" s also cr a lid nship. '• 5 IS. ■ ., 'lown- 1 Cook . id over ! meet- [ SEPII . MUEt- , :)i ward , Leon- i - :casion ised as health. .< I most,' e suffi- , . " I i. . ?rit the 1 I con- namier, • ects to rhomas' ^ xeixise *•* lave no '^ i nmde I!anada,' ir first , as to r)t havQ i. Our part \ M ( 17 ) would rather be adopted into a tri^ of Indians than give up this privilege. I am not for bearing the kicks and cuffs of servants of government : 1 am not to be alleviated under such grievances, by returning thanks for the same. It is well known, that notwith- standing the reputed purity and vigilance of the ancient government of Rome, the people of its distant colonies were most shamefully im- posed upon by those delegated to rule over them. I have a high o- pinion of the Administrator and Chief Justice, and do not think that any blame, rests with them or other members of the Executive Council ; but certainly " there is sometbing rotten in the state of Denmark" — and I rather think that evils originate at home.-— Before the vi^ar any man who came trom any part of the globe re- ceived, upon petitioning, and taking the oath of allegiance, 200 acres of land : the fees were thirty-seven and a half dollars, and the location could be made on any land not before taken up. Now His Majesty's own subjects, who have borne all the hardships of war for support of the Crown, can only draw 100 acres, and per- haps that is located in some remote corner, such as the Town- ship of Brock, where it is no better than a location in the moon ; it being impossible to get there but in the frozen season of the year. The Honorable Thomas Clark, I consider to be a loyal subject and faithful friend to the British government ; but as to the right of petitioning he is grossly mistaken.'' WainJUet, May €, 1818. This day a meeting of the Inhabitants of this Township, was held at the house of David Thompson for the purpose of taking into consideration, the proprietyof petitioning the Supreme Government for a redress of grievances ; when Mr. Gourlay's address, to the Resident Land Owners of Upper Canada, dated the 2d. ult. was read over and its whole tenor and sentiments unanimously approved of. The meeting then proceeded to elect a Representative and Clerk, when DAVID THOMPSON, Esq. was chosen to fill the former situation, and James Thompson the latter. A Committee also was appointed, to forward the views of the meeting, viz. Messrs. Henry Groff^ Nathan Kelley, Stephen N. Farr^ and Hiram Humphrey, The thanks of the meeting, were then unanimously voted toMr.Gour- lay, for his disinterestedness, and for coming forward and ably assist- ing to promote the good cause. (Signed) DAVID THOMPSON, Chairman. .V A true copy, J. Thompson, Clerk, i- Mr. Thomson, the Chairman of this meeting, after returning thanks for the honor done to him, spoke with much animation on the right of the subject to petition the Prince Regent, and depre- cated the comparison of tlie present meetings in Upper Canada with those rebellious aseemhlages which had, in Ireland, proceeded to unwarrantable lengths. I'hose who call the present meet- ings seditious, would do well, be said, to call to mind how the people of Canada rallied round the Royal Standard in the late war •— Aot only whtn it wavid victorious, but ev«a io the most critical ( '^i >«#^- If m l\ .«"i I ^Ot "^ -^ ( *» ) itni^s. Was it not a fact, that those who now. accused us of sedition, left us and flew to o^ier countries for refuge, till the storm was over ? None of you Gentlemen acted thus : but you see the return that is made. You aH know that Councillors and (Jommandcrs promised you land for your extraordinary services as good soldiers, — and you all expected your private losses to be made up. Three year* have now elapsed since the dia of arms ceased ;, but where are your rewards — what has become of your claims? Should we attrib- ute such neglect to our Parliament, or can, we suppose that the Supreme Government hath forbidden the fulfilment of justice. In my opinion the fault lies with our own Representatives, and it is now high time for us to petition the Prince Regent for enquiry in- to the causes of evil, and for our just demands. '■"..' ■'. St, Catharines, 4M Mai/, 1818. This day Representatives (andClerks,) chosen by the Inhabi);ants of the several Townships of Niagara District, for the purpose of petitioning the Prince Regent, on the general state of public a^airs now existing in the Province of Upper Canadia, met here. ' Robert Hamilton, Esquire, representing the Township of Niagara. Win. Hamilton Merritt, Esq. j. p. do. Grantham. John Clark, Esq. j. p. do. Louth. , Dr. Cyriis Sumner, do. Clinton.' ,j Captain Henry lliicon, do. Grimsby. " ' ■ y M§yor Wm. Robe^-tson, do. Caistor and Canbury. .f; Mr. John Kennedy, do. Gainsborough. . : r Mr. John Henderson, do. Pelham. ' George Kcefer, Esq. j. p. do. Thorold. ,. , '>■.:;.', Dr. John J. LetFerty, do. Stamford. ., ,>>'.• James Commings, Esq. J. p. do. Willoughby. : ♦ John IBaxter, Esq. do. Bertie. Mr. Joseph Current, do. Crowland. Mr. Benjamin Horton, do. Humbcrstone, and Lake side of Wainr* fleet. David Thompson, Esq, do. Wainfleet. : John Clark, Esq. being unanimously called to the Chair — the business of the day commenced by Mr. Clark's reading over Mr. Gourjay's Address to the Resident Land Owners of Upper Canada, dated 2d April, 1818. The recommendations and principlejS con- tained in the address, were declared to be those now generally ap- proved of, and as constituting the basis of the present proceedings. — It was then moved and carried, that Mr. Gourlay should be cal- led to the sitting, and invited to assist in the business of the day. George Adams, Esq. j. p. was elected to be Treasurer for this District, and, being s^nt for, accepted the office. William J. Kerr, Esq. was elected secretary; and these gentlemen were desired tore- tire with Township Clerks, to arrange accounts and commence a regular Journal of transactions. It was tlien moved, that a Draft oijia Petition previously prepared, should be read, which being done, its general principles were approved of, and it was agreed further. dition, over? hat is imised — and years re are attrib- at the e. In id it is iry in- 18. • bi^ants )ase of. affairs iagara. ■■■'» f Waiiy ir — the er Mr. [Canada, { lily ap- icdings. be cal- be day. for this , f. Kerr, . d to re- ; ence a^^ a Draft • ig done^ further^ '( 19 ) ; that consideration, as to its style, See. be referred to a committee of four. — Moved, and unanimously carried, that as soon as the Com- mittpe are sufficiently satisfled with the wording of the Petition, they order it to be printed, with a view to its lying before the public one month, and affording opportunity for animadversion or amerfd- ment, that finally it may be so drawn out as to give the greatest possible degree of satisfaction to the people of the District — Moved, and unanimously carried, tbat the same committee do immediately publish, throughout the Province, the whole proceedings of the peo- ple of this District of Niagara, up to tbis' time ; and take all ne- cessary steps towards promoting the objects in view. Moved, and unanimously carried, that tiie Gentlemen of the Com- mittee advertize, Saturday, 6th June, at 2 o'clock afternoon, as a proper time for the people of other Districts, to hold Township Meetings throughout the Province, at all places where Township Meetings are usually held — that Saturday, the 13th of the same month, be advertized for the meetings of township Representatives at the Head Town of their respective Districts, there to choose Dis- trict /Representatives, to assemble in the Provincial Conventiotj. — Moved, and unanimously carried, that Monday, 6th July noxl, beajl- vertizedastheday of meeting at York, of the Provincial Convention, there to appoint a Commission to proceed to England, with the Peti- tions to the Prince Regent, and hold conference, generally, on all matters then requiring attention. Moved, and unanimously carried, that it is proper for each District, to send to the Provincial Con- vention, Representatives in like number and proportion as they send members to Parliament. — Moved, and unanimously carried, that it be recommended that the District Representatives for the Western, London, Gore & Niagara Districts, do meet together, at Ancaster, en Friday, 3d July — there to tarry one or two days to consult and order with regard to any thing in these Districts, that may then be discovered to be neglected. — Also, that the District Representatives for Ottoway, the Eastern, Johnstown and Midland Districts, do meet for the like purpose, on Wednesday the 1st of July, at Ear- nest Town. The Meeting proceeded to choose Representatives for Niaj»ara District, when Robert Hamilton, Esq. Dr. Cyrus Sumner, John Clark, Esq. /. p. and Major Wm. Robertson, were duly elected. — It was then moved and carried, that these Gentlemen constitute the committee above mentioned. One of the Representatives requesting to be allowed to read a pa- per to the Meeting, the request was granted. The paper regarded certain partial proceedings in Courts of Justice* and attiibuted the same to the present corrupt state of public aifairs. The gentleman wished the Meeting to take the same into consideration ; but the proposal was lost, this being declared not a meeting of deliberation as to private or particular grievances — but for the pure purpose of Pe- titioning the Prince Regent generally, as to the state of the Pro- vince. It Was admitted that this, or other papers respecting public grievances, might be given to District Representatives, sealed up, \ /-; mi, ( «0 ) 9fiA directed to be put into the hands of the commissionert, that Ibey may make what use they please of the same, for the general good of the Province. Moved, and unanimomly agreed, that the thanks of the meeting be given to John Clark, Esq. for his impartial conduct in the Chair. The meeting then adjourned till Monday, 8th June, at St. Cath- arines, when the Petition will be finally adopted, and measures taken for its signature in the several Townships of this District. JOHN CLARK, Chdrman. William J. Kerr, Secretarif. Draft of an Address proposed for presentation to the Prince Begent — submitted to the con- sideration of the people of Upper Canada, for animadversion and amendment. -'^:^ r To, Ills Royal Highness, George, Prikce or Wales, Re- cent OF THE United Kingdom of Great Britaiv akb Ireland, &c. &c. &c. ' ,^ The Handle Address *of Inhabitants of Upper-Canada. May it pleiise your Royal Highness, Tlie subjects of your Koyal Father, dwelling in Upper-Canada, should need no words to give assarance of their loyalty, if tlie whole truth bad teached the Throne of their Sovereign. His loving Subjects have reason to believe that the truth baa not been told. During three years of war, Upper-Canada was exposed to the ravages of a powerful and inveterate fue. The Government of the United States bad been long concerting the invasion of this Province : hostile preparations a« gainst it, had been long masked under other designs ; and at last the ac- cumulated torrent of violence burst on the defenceless children of the Bri- tish Empire. Nor were they assailed by the weapons of war alone. An insidi- ous Proclamation preceded the host of the enemy— forgetful of honor— re- gardless of humanity ; and, daring to seduce the Subjects of Britain from their true allegiance. The Subjects of Britain remained dauntless and firm. It was not for property that they rose against the Invader : the Invader would have spared to them their property. They flew to arms in defence of the Rights and Sovereignty of Britain. Twice had the American Stand- ard been planted in Upper-Canada, while yet but a handful of British troops :uded the native battalions of the Province : — twice did these raw batta- lions wave the laurel of victory over the prostrate Intruders on their soil. The second yev X. ^\ <^, . igofavimemt from t1i6 claliAs of sttfTerers by war ; and it » within the Jtatot your Royal Highness to remove, by a single breath, the evil now so justly complained c(f. Millions of acres of fertile land lie, here, ai the dtRposal o^ your Roydi Highness, upon the credit of which, put un'ler proper manage* ment, not only the fair claims of loyal sufferers could be instantly advanced » tut vast sums could be raised for the improvement of the Provinces, and the encrcase of revenue to Britain. Another grievance, manifesting the neglect of government to the concerns orUpper Canada is equally notorious ; and must be still more abhorrent to the generous feelings of your Royal Highness. ^* " The young men of this Province, wlio were armed in its defence, had, for their spirited conduct, the promise of their Commanders, that land would be granted them, as a reward for their services, as soon as war was terminated ; and after this promise was universally confided in, the Parli« ament of Upper Canada passed an extraordinary law, in the face of establish- ed British principles, that the militia should pass beyond the frontier. With these promises, and in obedience to this law, the militia passed beyond the frantier with alacrity; yet, since the peace, tlie greater part of them have been denied the pledge of their extraordinary services, and the land is un- justly withheld. ..e. . ,,; . ^,. ' *^v. Such ingratitude— such dishonor — such errors in policy, your Royal fligh- Bess may be well assured, cot^ld not exist, without extraordinary influences ; and, were your Royal Highness sufficiently informed as to these, and of the true state of Upper Candida, we flatter ourselves, most important changes would speedily take place, as well for the^lory of the Throne, as for the benefit of-its ttubjects. Permit the loyal subjects of His Majesty merely to Say as much, at the present time, on this subject, as may induce Your Royal Highness to order enquiry to be made. The landsof the Crown in Upper Canada, are of immense extent, not only stretclung far and wide into the wilderness ; but scattered over the Province, and intermixed with private property, already cultivated. The disposal of this land is left to Ministers at home, who ave palpably ignorant of existing circumstances ; and to a council of men resident in the Province, who, it is believed, have long converted the trust reposed in them to purposes of sel- fishness. The scandalous abuses, in this department, came some years ago to such a pitch of monstrous magnitude, that the home Ministers wisely im- posed restrictions on the land Council of Upper Canada. These, however, have by no means removed the evil ; and a system of patronage and favour- itism, in the disposal of tlie Crown lauds, still exists, altogether destructive of moral rectitude, and virtuous feeling, in the management of public affairs. Coiruption, indeed, has reached such a height in this Province, that it is thought no other part of the British Empire witnesses the like ; and it is Vain to look for improvement till a radical change is effected. It matters not what characters fill situations of ^-ublic trust at present :— all sink be- neath the dignity of men— become vitiated and weak, as soon as they are placed within the vortex of destruction. Confusion on confusion has grown •ut of this unhappy system ; and the very^ lands o ^he Crown, the giving -^ C) M ( S3 ) nthe/alof «r ao justly diBposal o^ er Tnaniige< f advanced » vinces, and ;be concerns ibhorrent to ifence, had, , that land as war was , the Parli- )f establish* ntier. With beyond the 'them have land is un- loyal High- influences ; , and of the It changes as for the ich, at the ss to order it, not only B Province, disposal of of existing ', who, it is ises of sel- ears ago to wisely im- however, ind favour- lestructive blic affairs. that it is and it is It matters II sink be- I they are has grown the giving Away of which has created such mischief and iniquity, have ultimately epme to little value from abuse. The poor subjects of His Majesty, driven from home by distress, to whom portions of land are granted, can now find in the grant no benefit ; and loyalists of the United Empire— .the descendants of those who sacrificed their all, in America, in behalf of Britisli rule— men whose names were ordered on record for their virtuous adherence to Your Roval Father ; — the descendants, of these men find, now, no favour in their destined rev/ards : nay^ these rewards, when granted, have, in many cases, been rendered worse thah nothing ; for the legal rights in the enjoyment of them have been held at nought : their land has been rendered uinsideable, and, in some canes, only a source of distraction and care. Under this system of internal management, and weakened fr«m other evil influences. Upper Canada now pines in comparative decay : discontent and poverty are experienced in a land.supremely blessed with the gifts of nA> lure: dread of arbitrary power wars, here, against the free exercise of rea- son and manly sentiment : laws have been set aside : legislators have come injto derision; and, :Contempt from the mother country seems fast gathering strength to disunite the people of Canada from their friends at hovaei , . The immediate interference of Your Royal Highness might do much to check existing evils ; and might wholly remove those which spring from the system of patronage and favouritism^ in the land granting department; Other evils however gfreatly retard the prosperity of Upper Canada— evils which have their root in the original constitution of the Province, and tliese can only be removed by the interference uf the British Parliament, now most imperiously required. , Deeply penetrated with these sentiments, and most seriously inclined to have such needful changes speedily eilected, the loyal subjects of Britain, dwelling in Upper Canada, now take the extraordinrry step of sending home Commissioners to bear this to the Throne, and humbly entreat Your Royul Highness to give ear to the details which it will be in their power to relate : above all, that Your Royal Highness would, immediately, send out to this Province a coMMissioir, consisting of cliscreet and wise^mcn-^ men of business and talent, who shall be above every influence here ; and who may be instructed to make enquiry into all the sources of eviL N. B. Should ani^ person incline to draw out an ADDRESS, entirely different from the above, it is requested that a copy may he directed t9 " Mr. John Ross, Niagara," (for the District Committee,) and it i« also requested that Reports of Toicmhip meetings, stating what persons are appointed to act as Representatives, Clerks, and Committee Mcn^ be forwarded to the same^ xdth all ionvenicnt sjiud, immediately ajter such meetings arc h(ld. .N li PI TO THE PUBLIC. With consent of the Niagara Committee, I take this opportunity «f notifying that, I have directed to be printed, together, the whole \eri tings on the state of Upper Canada, which have appeared during the last six mouths in the Niagara Spectator, &c. with notes, &c. They will form a curious collection of political wrangling, and ex-, hibit an important species of evidence as to causes which now retard the prosperity of this fine country. Those inclining to hare a copy of this work, will be so good ^s to give in their names to storekeepers who may be willing to become agents in the business ; and as soon as such storekeepers either severally, or by joining their lists of subscribers with others, can give an order for 20 copies, they will be so obliging as write to me, at the Post-oihce of, Queenstbn,Kingston,or Montreal, noting on the back of the letter the word " order" by which means I shall be able to have the same attended to in the speediest and best manner. My experience in Upper Canada assuring me that an indepen- dent newspaper, established on a footing of such strength as to se- cure its delivery regularly, on a certain day of every week, in every organized Township above York, would not only pay, but become of infinite advantage to the Inhabitants, I now beg leave to pro- pose such an undertaking before I return to Europe. If the propo- sal is liberally received, I should make arrangements^ there, for laying a substantial ground work, and for obtaining, regularly, the best and earliest intelligence of the great political movements of the old world, .thereby to be enabled to keep up a journal of occurren- ces, in which the people of Canada, it is hoped, will long continue to have the warmest interest. During the sitting of parliament I should remove the press to the seat of Government, if not stationary there during the whole year — so that faithful Reports might be given of legislative prqceedings, &c. In short the scheme should reach, if possible, every desirable object, and stamp " the very body of the time — its form and pressure.'' < Persons, favourably* disposed to such an undertaking, will use the same mode of expressing their will, as above pointed out ; and, should single individuals wish to correspond directly with me on the subject, I have only to request, in such cases, that the postage may be paidj for obvious reaftous. ROBEUT GOURLAY. '~m portunity he whole id during »tes, &c. , and ex- )w retard .'ml ood s^s to 9 become rs either liers, can te to me, ng on the U be able mer. inde pen- as to se- in every !; become to pro- e propo- here, for [arly, the [its of the occurren- contiaue ;ss to the lole year ceedings, desirable brm and will use )Ut ; and, ne on the tage may [LAY. \,