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YALE UNIVERSITY
LIBRARY

BioariA.PHY

HON. ¥. E MERMTT, M. P.,

LINCOLN, DISTRICT OF NIAGARA,

INCLUDING AX ACCOUNT OP THK

ORIGIN, PROGRESS AND COMPLETION OF SOME OF THE
MOST IMPORTANT PUBLIC WORKS IN CANADA.

COMPILED PRINCIPALLY FROM BIS

ORIGINAL DIARY AND CORRESPONDENCE,

<»;*{o

B-5r J-- p. ISaiERRITT-

ST. CATHARINES:
«. S. LB.WENWQJITH, BOOK AND JOB PRINTING ESTABLISHMBNT.
1875.

Entered according to Act of Parliament of Canada, 1876, by J. P. Mekritt, in the
Offiice of the Minister of Agriculture.

PREFACE.

It is not -without many misgivings that the folio-wing pages are now
submitted to the people of Canada. Although -we cannot but hope that to the
student of j our country's history, they may in some respects be found inte
resting, and to the general public, entertaining, as an attempt to pourtray
the numerous characters in -which a public man, rising among his fello-ws,
may find himself placed during his role as an actor in connection -with
the events of his time. Yet the position of the Biographer, as a near rela
tive, may, in many instances be construed into that of an egotist, -where
nothing of the kind -was intended.
For this reason, and to the best of our ability in endeavouring to sink
the individuality of relationship, we have sought only to place the cha
racter of our subject in the position, we have every reason to think, it
should occupy, i. e., as a sincere and ardent lover of his country, and a
statesman, as far as his limited abilities permitted.
As a country, the position of Canada is a peculiar one, with all the
adjuncts of a great nation, with resources unbounded, and the necessary
intelligence to use them, it cannot be denied that it has not kept pace
-with other sections of the same family on this continent, nor acquired the
respect which after 100 years of endeavour, it should now command. We
believe this to be no mere idle assertion, and although it is not our pro-
-vdnce to investigate the cause, yet if we can in the following pages shew
that there was one at least who loved his country and longed for its pros
perity, our work will not be in vain.
That our subject during a long and eventful career, tried to place his own
country and its interests, always first in every consideration, will be found
amply illustrated within, and although from time honoured traditions he
loved Britain with a Briton's love, yet he loved Canada more, nor was his
devotion a mere sentiment, as in no instance can we find that he ever
was willing to place his own land in a secondary position to any other ; by
a trifling transposition of the sentence we might justly say with Macauley
in his eulogy on the illustrious Pitt, that he loved Canada, "as an Athenian
loved the city of the violet crown — as a Rorfian loved the ' Maxima rerum
Roma.' "

II.
Th« limited space at our disposal debarred us from giving more than a
synopsis of the leading political and local events, with vrhich our subject
was connected ; still we trust that sufiicient matter is given to incite the
investigator to trace events onward to their end. We have copiously
used the opinions of the press, and although at this date it may seem strange
that a local newspaper (the St. Catharines Journal) furnished most of the
items, yet it must be remembered that in the times we -write of, this paper
did its duty as a public exponent, a. task which has latterly fallen to the
daily papers of the large cities. We have entered fully into the question
of Public Works, not entirely because our subject was engaged with
those of his time, but for the reason that in all matters honestly intended to
foster and encourage trade, he found them the source of a nation's greatness.
Such were the ideas of our subject, and it will be seen that in almost
every instance of trouble, he was prepared with some resource to counteract
any evils which might fall on the land through mistaken statesmanship, or
ungenerous legislation.
That errors may have crept in, and umbrage be expressed for many
statements, we fully expect, and as ordinary mortals are hardly rssponsible,
or expected to be perfect in these matters, we claim the benefit of the saying
that to err is human.
Fault may be found with the minuteness of some, and the apparent
slightness of other matters. In this we are convinced that it will require
the experience of another generation to fully appreciate the soundness of
Mr. Merritt's views.
. In local matters we have been as particular as the circumstances would
' admit, and forebore bringing up issues at any time unpleasant, but would
ask the reader to mark well the change of public sentiment which actuated
the friends of our subject in assisting him in those schemes, which benefitted
not only his own locality but the country at lai-ge. This change is apparent
in the appreciation in which his responsibility was held by the Go-t^ernment
in the early days of the Welland Canal, and the reverse in a similar enter
prise, the W. R. R., at a later date.
To the critic wa may state that no efforts have been made to render
the work attractive by sensatioiialism, or introduce the finer arts known to
those who write for effect. We have simply endeavoured to give the bio
graphy of a plain man, in as plain a manner as we could, and if we have
succeeded in doing so our utmost expectations will be accomplished.
We thankfully acknowledge the obligations we are under to numerous
friends for their advice and assistance in compiling these pages.
J. P. M.
St. Catharines, 1876.

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Paob,
Projenitors American Loyalists 
Grand-Father and two eldest flee to New York  5-
Removal to U.C. 
Setfjlers on Niagara Peninsula,  7.
Childhood and Schooldays of our subject  8.
To Lower Canada  9.
•'Quebec'  10.
"Halifax  11.
" St. George, Bermuda, returns to New York  12.
" St. John, N. B, at School  13.
Returns home by New York  14.
Store keeping and Farming ...,  15.
1812.
War  16,17,18.
Detroit  19.
Queenston  20.
Results of First Campaign  21.
Reverses at Niagara  22,23.
StoneyCreek  24.
Beaver Dams  25.
Indian Engagement with U. S. Troops outside of Niagara . . . . 26.
Goes to Montreal  ,  27.
Blockade of Niagara  28.
Second Retreat  29.
Advance — Memories of the Gore District  30.
Burning of Niagara  31.
Burning of Buffalo— Sickness  32.
Disaster at Chippawa  33.
Skirmishing  34.
Lundy's Lane  35.
Prisoner  36.
Marriage  ,  37.
Prendergast Family   "•
Settled down at St. Catharines   39.
Discovery of Salt  40.
Extended business  41.
Surveyed Canal   ... :  42,43.
A Yankee, Canadian and Scotch Doctor  45.
" Golden Age " local^Change of names — Slavery  46, 4&.

Page.
Anxiety —Christmas— Canal thoughts —Hope and despondency  50.
Small beginnings — Inward thoughts   kq
Get up a subscription  z~!'
Appeal to Governor Maitland and Sir. J. Harvey  54.
Che witt's route — Local jealousies  ^'^-
Meeting convened a;-'pointed agent  • '-'"•
Matured plans, — Encouragement  ^'¦
Visit Works on Erie Canal  58.
Company Incorporated.  
Preliminaries-— Family aflTlictions   59.
Winter journeying to Quebec— First £1000  60 — 61.
To New York in Fall— Mr Yates— Brocks Monument  62.
Turning the first i sod of Welland Canal — Speech  63 — 67—68.
Old Church— State of the Country  69-70.
Provincial Assesments   71.
182.5.
Work progressing   ¦••  71.
At Bar of House   .. 72.
Jieport — Bishop Stvachan — Opposition in Niagara  73.
To New York — Enlarged Canal Stock taken  74.
St. Lawreacs Route Surveyed   75.
At York for Amendment of Charter  76.
1826.
St. Catharines " Journal " Started   77.
Honorable settlement of Merritt and Ingeisolls business .... 78.
Establisment of Mail routes   79.
Albany — Governors visit — Burlington Bay Canal  80.
Removal of residence   81.
St. Catharines Landmarks   82.
Report   .  83.
Rideau Canal commenced  84.
1827.
£25,000 granted to Welland Canal  85
Offices removed to St. Catharines  86.
"Feeder '  87
Grand River  88.
1828.
For England  .._  89 to 109.
Aecident on returning ...   110.
Proceedings    HI.
Deep Cut disasters    112.

Page.
Politics — Land lisputes   113.
Fortifying Canada  114.
Policy tending the trade . ..   115.
Departure of Governor Maitland   116
1829.
Opposition from Radicals    117.
Tisit and description of Canal  118-119—120.
Grantham Academy   121.
Governors visit (fee   122.
Completionof Canai — First vessel through  123 — 124.
The Roll of Honor  ,  125.
1830.
Lobbying in the House for Loan to Canal ... . .  125.
Article on improvement of St. Lawrence  126.
Canal not opened untill July   127.
Welland Canal Company turned For-v^^rders  ,. 128.
1831
Lobbyir tr^th J B. Yatee  129,
Milling with O. Phelps  130-131.
1832.
New Customs Office   132.
W. L. MaoKenzie re-elected — Canada Co — Grand River . . 133..
Emigration — Cholera    134.
Eleeted to Haldimand &c  135—187.
Bill against imprisonment for debt   138.
1833.
Parliament business  139.
House opened 1st June   , . 140 — 142.
W.L.Mackenzie   143.
House 19th November for expulsion of MacKenzie  144.
Relief of Mennonites andQuakers  144.
1834.
Welland Canal breaks occurred  146.
End of Legislature  146.
MacKenzie Mayor of Toronto  147.
Choice of a Loyalist Parliament  148.
92 Resolutions in Lower Canada  149.

1835. Paoe.
Radical House — Comparisons   151.
English Gentlemen to St. Catharines  156.
McKenzie examines Canal accounts  157.
Resolutions ou the State of the Province— Mr. Merritt and the Speaker
to oairy them to England   195.
Lord Durhams report obviates going to England 
Act p^tying Stockholder.s in Canal   196.
Newspaper discussion on the appointment to England  1 97.
Private ditto   
Speech favorable to Report   199.
Preparing to get the best advantages for his Country  200.
Rents his Mill   ' 
Correspondence with J. Nelson in L. C, and various others in U> C. 201.
Speech at Rainham . .   " •
New Governor — Parliament opened 3rd December  202.
Promises places of importance to Canadians of talent  203.
Sympathy with banished Canadians  204.
Commissioners High and Low   206.
Attended House   206.
Writing of Governor   207.
1886.
In House— Mr. Hinckn  158 — 160.
Grand River   161.
Death of Mr. Yates  162—163.
Address to Electors    164.
House    165.
1837—8.
General Matters  166—167—168-169—170
Monetary Crisis   171
Govermors Policy     172
MacKenzie tried for defamation   'I73
Rebellion   174 to 186
Important Letter to Lord Durham   jgg
1839.
Important Trade diverted by Hudson Bay Co  jgQ
State of the Country  .  -jgg
Governor at St. Catharines — Mr. Merritt's views
The Legislare — Remarks in Private Journal 
The Sole Business — State of Province 
House met — Notice injudiciously given,and Mr. Merritt in Committee
for address   

TU.
1840. Page.
President of Canal — After three years absence  211.
Favorable report from his old Constituency, not an opposing voice 212.
Why fiiends were not forthcoming to complete the -work ... 212.
Still finds time to write   213.
Death of our pastor — Queenston Heights — Union  215.
Popular anxiety — About Parliament  217.
Union Act unfa vol able to Canada  
Visit of Governor  . . 219—219
Board of Works ....  
Chosen by Reform Convention   228.
Correspondence with the author and H. H. Killaly  223.
1841.
Christmas Holidays   224.
Refugees   225—226.
Jarvis and Baldwin ...   227.
A. Morse on Elections   228.
Robert F. Gourlay and result of Elections  230 — 231.
Congratulatory letters   232.
Consolidated Union   233 — 235.
Canal and Grand River opened   236.
Domestic ...    237.
Parliament opened at Kingston  
Nine days debate on speech   238.
Catial stockholders to be paid   239.
Results of first Session satisfactory 240.
To New York   241.
Co-operation of Eastern Provinces   242.
Letters from Mr. Holmes and Dr. Prendergast ...  242.
Chief Justice Robinson  243 — 244.
Rev. R. Blacow  245:
1842.
Departure for England ..   246.
Correspondence with Members of Imperial Parliament .... 247.-
To'Cambridge ...   248.
" Paris and Bonn  249—250.
" Scotland and Ireland   251.
Home ...   • • • ¦ 252.
Letter to George Adams, President Agricultural Society . . 253.
Disturbance on Canal ...   254.
Housii met    255.
Special Committee on Finance   256.
Passes down " Lost Channel " Rapids on St. Lawrence 257.
Home affairs    258.

Vlll.
1843. Page.
Death of Mother '   259.
Appointed Commisioner for Lunatic Aslyum  .. 260.
Governor and other distinguished -visitors to Canal  261.
Letter to son in Bonn   262 — 263.
On removal of seat of Government   264.
Resignation of Reform Ministry   265.
Offer of Inspector Generalship refused  265.

1844.

Chairman of Bible Society  268—269
Uncertainty as to party  270—271—272
Partial adherence to the Draper administration  273
Confusion in Government departments ... ... 274 — 275—276
Letter to Draper    277
" from Duke of Wellington on Welland CanaJ  278
Suspension Bridge thought of ...  .. 279
Inspector Generalship again declined and given to W. B. Robinson 280
1845.
Death of Mrs. Prendergast — Parliament in Session  281.
Refers to loss in Mill business ..  .... 282.
Appointed Commisioner of Intercolonial to England — Did not accept 283.
Niagara and Detroit Railroad .  . .. 284.
Visits Boston and New Yo>-k for Railroad  285.
Great Western opposes ...  .... 286.
Local enterprise for R. R. ....   287.
Tugs on St. Lawrence ... ..  .... 288.

1846.

Railroads    289
Canal enlargement ...   291  29'
Great Western and Southern R. R. Controversey  293
Refusal to extend Charter 
Disastroui? results prognosticated — change of Imperial Policv
Retires from business — Reciprocity 
U. C. Municipal Bill ... 
Application for Government employment 
Great Western Railway ...  308— 309— 3lo_l3li_3i o
First Provincial Exhibition ..   „,^
 ol o

294.295.
.305.306.
307.

1847. Page
Urges Free Trade with U. S.   314.
Lord Elgin Arrives ..    315.
Intel colonial Railroad — Meeting for relief of Irish Famine ... 316.
Electric Telegraph   317.
Travelling ..  318.
Opening of Parliament   ... 319.
Meeting in St. Catharines   ... 320.
Familyaffairs ..   321.
Reciprocity Correspondence   322.
1848.
L. J. Papineau    323
Journey to Montreal   324
Proceedings in Parliament    325
Change of Ministry .   326
Letter to the Premier ...  .... ...327 — 328
Home journey ...  ....  ...329
Crossed Suspension Bridge in a basket   "
Invited to Washington ....  ...  330
Death of Dr. Prendergast ... ,   ... 331
At Washington   ... 332--333
J. F. Crampton ...  ...  334
Too hasty about repining    335
To Chicago — .Called to Government  

Cause sof entering Government   .... 336
Services on Reciprocity Measure   337
Reciprocity retarded by the then member   • '
Hostile threats by Conservative press .. ..,  338
They are in favor of our subject   339
Extracts from Private Journal ...  ... 340
Detaling usual Ofiiical Routine ...   341
D. B. SuUivans plan for Emigrants   "
Letter home ... ...    342
Notices passing down a schooner for Europe ....  343.
His measures on Loan Fund now taken up  344
" Journal " takes an opposing -view  345 — 346
Hincks' plan of Finance ...   ... "
Remarks on ditto and summary   347
1849.
Opening of Parliament    348
Governors Speech ...   ... 349
Reciprocity resolution by Papineau  ... 349.
" Journal " on act passed 6th March ...  .... 350.

X. Page.
Letter on proceedings^ia]Parliament ... . . ^^^
Tugs to be built ..   
W. L. Mackenzie returns   350
Caricatures published ... ^  ... ...352.
Parliament Hous© burnt    .¦••
1850.
Meeting at St. Cathariaes, &c  353
Occupation after close of Session  354
Visit of Family at Saratoga  355
Issue of Government Bills  358
To Washington  360
Speaks of Journey Home  —
to MayviUe  361
Halifax  362
Governor, &c., at the Falls  . 363
Annexation Manifesto  365
Remarks on do.  368
Governor in Toronto  369
Keeping House in Toronto  370
House Met  371
To the Electors  3734
Opening of Canal   375
Chief Commissioner  376
Unsatisfactory to L. C. Members  385
Christmas at home  386
1851.
Letter to Wm. H. Merritt, Jun.,  387
Opening of the Town Hall  388
Improvements on Oak hill  389
Merrittsville Road  39Q
Pioneer Propeller  39I
Speech Explaining his Resignation  392
Scheme for Union  395
Canal Tolls  395
Election — Letters on Separate Schools  397
1852.
Increased Canal Business Require Increased Facilities  399
Reformers Exultant  aqq
Temperance  aq^
1853.
Reciprocity Measure  .qo
Welland Railway  ' ' ' .q .
Brock's Monument — Corner Stone  iqb

XI.
1854. Page.
Reciprocity Treaty Signed, and Election  408
Speech — Explanation  ,  409
Money for Russian War  410
Final Act of Disestablishment and Sale of Clergy Reserves  411
Zolverein  '412
1855—6.
The Adjournment  413
Suspension Bridge Opened  414
War did not Benefit us  415
As Chairman of Finance Committee  415
Free Trade v/ith West Indies  416
Railroad to Toronto opened  ."  417
To England to procure stock for W. R. R  418
1857.
Large Outlay for Improvements in St. Catharines  419
Financial Depression  420
To England again in behalf of W. R. R 
1858.
Son William to England on R. R. Business  421
Dwelling destroyed  ;  422
1859.
Fourth and last Visit to England  423
Historical Digression  424
Financial Difliculties  425
Position taken by the St. Catharines Council in the R. R. Interest 426
1860.
Returned home last time  426
Death of second Son  427
Health failing  "
Moved in the New House  "
1861.
Attended Parliament  428
1862.
Mr. Merritt's Death, near Cornwall  429

INTRODUCTORY,

The subject of the folio-wing Memoirs is descended from a long line of
the early settlers on this Continent, who from various motives were led to
traverse the broad Atlantic, and seek a home in the yet unbroken forests
of a land which is now considered by many as the centre of civilization
and advancement. In looking back on the past history of those hardy
pioneers, the careful observer must see that the first settlers of this
country were men of no ordinary courage and endurance : they required to
to be fully in possession of all these ennobling gifts with which nature has
endowed her children, and at the same time to be possessed of no ordinary
share of that intelligence, which at all times enables the cultivated man to
Bubdue the forces over wiich the untaught mind has no eontrol. It may
be a question for philosophers to decide whether an ordinary training would
enable a man, suddenly transposed from luxury and refinement into the soli
tudes of an unbroken wilderness, to find the where-with to sustain life, -without
the aids of other faculties and endo-wment; ssuch as an inborn courage or
stamina which feared no dangers, and a determined resolve, -well kept, to
accept the situation as found, and make the best of it in the face of all
drawbacks. Of such material we believe the early settlers of the Western
plantations and colonies of Great Britain wei-e formed, and we have good
retisons for thinking that the blood of those ^" iron men," who, from the
days of Richard the Lion to Oliver the Protector, had never shunned
danger, still coursed with a lively glow through the veins of those hardy
settlers who first attempted the difficult task of making the wilderness
blossom as the rose, and converting the mighty productions of an unknown
world into the most necessaiy wants of mankind. Amongst the long roll
of these old adventurers we find that the paternal ancestors of our subject
played no unimportant part.

B 1 Oaii-A^FHY

OF THE

HON. W. H. MERRITT,' I M.P.

-*0j«<0

William Ha.milton Merritt's gi-andfather, Thomas Merritt, like the
rest of his kindred, resided upon a farm between Bedford and Long Island
Sound, two miles from the latter place, and called in these days "Mile End,"
from a mile square of laud being granted to an ancestor of his, for survey
ing at an early date the County of Westchester, of which it is the extreme
limit south-east from New York State. Being the oldest of three orphan
children, he occupied the acknowledged position of guardian,: but was unable
to divert the rest of the family from the new opinions and parties which
resulted in the Revolution in later years.
Thomas Merritt, the oldest son, was sent early to school, he being
destined for the medical profession, and was in due time transferred to
Harvard College, the nearest institution for pursuing the higher studies of
his intended career; but the troubles of the times soon put an end to all
peaceful avocations, and following the military traditions of the family, (his
maternal grandfather having held a commission as Captain under George IL,
in the Conquest of Canada,) he entered the Regiment of Simcoe's " Queen's
Rangers," as a Coronet. In the moving of the division to the South in 1779,
he fell in love with and married Miss Mary Hamilton, of South Carolina.
On the return of the division, they resided in New York, where the corps
were disbanded ; but not choosing to make that place their home, they went
to St. John, N. B., having lost their first-born before setting out on their
journey. A shori stay in the cold climate of New Brunswick forced them
to try the CaroHnas again, — not however till misfortune visited them in the
loss of another child. These troubles, -with other difficulties, decided them
on moving once more, when they settled near the old family homestead on
¦King Street in Bedford, where the birth of a son and daughter occurred, the
former — the subject of this Memoir — being bom on the 3rd of July, 1793.
They there moved to New York, where they resided a short time until their
final move to Upper Canada.

After the separation had commenced by the Royalists protesting against
the Battle of Lexington, his father was arrested, tried by some ofthe Whigs
of Westchester, and barely escaped death for his opinions. His own family
remained in the old house, but he and the two oldest sons escaped over the
line into the loyal part beyond, where the two latter entered the army.
This locality has long been the field of the romance writer under the title
of the "debatable ground." In order to prevent the enlistment of the
remaining sons, of whom there were five, .Mrs. Merritt destroyed the family
record. The excitement, however, was too great for her to endure, and she
died before, the Revolution was over.
On the proclaiming of peace, and permission being given to the loyalists
to return and occupy their late homes, Shubael Merritt, the second son,
retumed, and while lodging opposite, to his wife's family residence, he was
surprised by an organized band of Wliigs, and shot. The next oldest son,
Da-vid, with his father, was allowed as a great favour to give his dead
body decent burial, and then having no other refuge they left the country
and sailed with other persecuted loyalists like themselves, in 1783, to, the
Pro-vince of New Brunswick.
His maternal ancestors were descended from the early settlers of Ne-w
England, the home of the Puritans. His great grandfather, Capt. Purdy,
took an active part in the French wars, as well as the Merritts. Thus he,
with the other loyalists, had at least the satisfaction when forced to leave
their homes, of settling in a section of country — wilderness though it might
be called — which was dear to them as being mainly won by the gallantry of
their ancestors, who in years gone by, had wrested the land from its French
possessors. When there, the father, Thomas Merritt, did not receive any
land or other remuneration for his lost property in the Colony, but was
compelled to follow the occupation of fishing, which perhaps in the end
afforded him a better return, as the land there was anything but fertile ;
and where he died in the year 1821.
The proclamation of his old Colonel Simcoe, offering settlers favourable
inducements in the Province of Upper Canada, caused Mr. Merritt to visit
Niagara, the capital of the Province, and so favourable was his reception by
the Govemor, who pi-omised him lands in an eligible part of tho country,
that in the following year (1796) he moved with his family to the Province
of Upper Canada, his route being facilitated by the improvements of the
Mohawk River at Cohoes and Little Falls, lately completed, rendering the
navigation continuous. Their progress was for the most part through a
wilderness, — the Indians still having possession of Western New York
under the protection of the British. Leaving the sloop at Albany a
batteaux carried them up the Mohawk ; from thence by a short porta"« to
Wood Creek, they descended into Lake Ontario at Oswego. The British
officer in charge of that post kindly permitted the passage of their goods

frea of duty to Niagara, where they arrived safely after a long and tiresome
voyage. The lauds of tha Niagara District having been all taken up by
the man of Butler's Rangers — a force which had rendered most important
services to the Crown in former days— and the frontier being settled, Mr.
Merritt, not wishing to cross to the other side of the lake to York, where
the seat of Government had just been removed, and where he must reside,
in order to take advantage of the Government gi-ants, he first purchased-
Lot No. 13, in the 4th Concession, but shortly afterwards he removed to,
Lot No. 20, in the same Concession, a more eligible spot, it being situate on
the Twelve Mile Creek.
Here, within a few miles of the base of the mountain, and close by
the bright waters of Old Ontario, on the banks of the broad and delightful
estuary of the " Twelve," surrounded by the towering giants of the forest—
the oaks, the walnuts, and the lordly pines — were the first early impressions
of the new land conveyed to the youthful mind of the subject of this.
Memoir. As previously stated, the life and habits of a pioneer is one which calls
into fuU play at all times the entire powers of both mind and body : to
supplant the mighty monarchs of the -virgin soil for the more useful and
necessary grains and roots, required for the daily fare ; to build ; to fence j
and to prepare for the coming rigours of a Canadian winter, are tasks which
leave the first settlers but little leisure to bestow on outside affairs, so that
the early life of our subject must have been one of active industry, helping
his parents in the cultivation of the the farm, and doing his daily part
towards the comforts of the house.
It has been remarked that every one who has made a name for being a
friend to mankind, has sho-wn a corresponding devotion to his parents and
family : in fact, the self-denying practices of the one, becomes a school for
-the practice of the other, and without which, a man can never persistently
perform the role of a benefactor. One of the most trying family duties in
¦winter is thq, starting of the morning fires : Hamilton performed this duty,
always rising the first in the moming. In the absence of servants, Mrs.
Merritt set tho example. A party of friends would often drop in upon the
family, when there would be no help in the house ; Mrs. Merritt would then
take the position of cook, and, with the assistance of the children, prepare
dinner for the visitors, to which, after changing the attire, they would sit
down, she with her husband, who had occupied the guests in the meantime,
wholly unconscious of these proceedings.
An incident which Mr. Menitt^sed to relate, shewed the fine feeling?
of the children towards each other. Himself and his eldest sister, Caroline,
were one day picking cherries at Colonel Tenbroeck's. She was standing on
on exti'emity of a limb of the tree, along which, against her most anxious
admonitions, he persisted in going. The result was, the limb broke and

both came to the ground ; he was uninjured, but she, after ascertaining
his safety, and asking, "Are you hurt?' fainted away, much to the horroi-
of Hamilton, who believed a dreadful calamity had happened.
One favourite occupation of his was taking the grain to the mUl, his
earliest expedition in this capacity being on his fifth birthday, and was in
company with the servant giri, to Servos' Mill, near Niagara. His father,
when with him in the field, would often get the famiers when going on this
errand, to let him perform that service for them, while they would assist at
hoeing until his return. Thomas', on the Twelve Mile Creek, was the mill
generally patronized.
At one time, Jas. Ditterick was overtaken while pursuing the i-oute and
a raoe occurred on the road, which was full of stumps, whereby the latter
received a severe fall over one of them.
The time was not passed; however, without mental improvement, as he
attended the log school-house at the " Comers," situated near hLs subsequent
residence. In 1806 he was sent to Burlington, at the head of the lake, and here
he atteniJed Mr. Cockerell's school, where he received mathematical instruc
tion, field surveying, etc., etc. Being an only son, his indulgent father,
wishing to make him an efficient horseman, presented him with a fine pony,
on -which he could make extensive expeditions around the head of the Bay,
from which the few main roads in those days radi-ated from each side of the
Laike, — east across to Lake Erie, and west to Lake St. Clair. This practice,
besides adding to his health, gave vigour to body and mind, which was not
without being severely tested in his expeditions with the " light horse," half
a dozen years after, when his extensive knowledge of the country and his
skill as a dashing cavalry officer, was of the greatest importance to the cause
of the Crown. The holidays, especially Sundays, were well spent -with his
fellow-students, sons of the Hon. Mr. Hatt, of whose hospitable domicile he
entertained many pleasing recollections.
Soon after this, his teacher, Mr. Cockerell, removed to Niagura, doubtess
expecting a higher remuneration for his services, as that town was compara
tively large, and contained a number of government officials.
His father at that time was Sheriff of the District, and frequently in
Niagara, so that the removal of the teacher was a pleasing change to them
all. Here he finished his homa education, under the direction of Mr.
Cockerell, and the Rev. John Burns, a Presbyterian clergyman, who was a
highly gifted and talented man. This was all the classical knowledge he
ever attained, which afterwards was aieorbed by the practical and useful
routine of active life.
At Niagara he saw a great deal more of society than either at Burlington
or home. The military gentlemen stationed there were a fine set of fellows
who always strove to make their presence agreeable, and fumished k vast

fund of varied entertainments, so that time passed over very pleasantly. As
society- increased at Niagara, it also extended to his own neighbourhood on
the banks of the " Twelve." Numbers of his father's old companions-in
arms during the Revolutionary War located themselves around that place.
The officers of "Butler's Rangers" had drawn their lands in this vicinity.
Paulding, Tenbroeck, Turney, and others, who oft in the fierce din of battle
had made their opponents quaU, were his immediate neighbours, so that his
father and family soon became reconciled, as their prospects brightened,. and
the dark shadows of former years vanished from their path, and the pleasing
visions of devoted loyalty in days gone by were about to be realized in a
new land, far away from the once happy homes of ancestors and kindred.
At the age of 15, -wishing him to see a little more of the outside world,
and hearing that his uncle Nehemiah, from New Brunswick, was at the port
of Quebec with his vessel, he was fitted out and sent to that city. He
fortunately had the companionship of Col. John Clark and Mr. Jas. Secord
during part of his journey. At Niagara, they found a schooner bound for
Kingston, commanded by Capt. Simpson. The arrangements for the voyage
were soon made, and in due time they reached that place. They had
now got upwards of 200 miles on their way, and finding some batteaux
which were proceeding to Montreal, they transferred themselves and luggage
to those old-fashioned but useful modes of conveyance. Travelling in those
days was a very tedious affair and required a large stock of patience, to
which, however, from custom they were well-used : at all events, it gave him
leisure to survey and admire the most beautiful scenery of the Lake of the
Thousand Isles, and those wonders of tourists from every clime, the Rapids
of the St. Lawrence River.
When they reached Montreal, they were greatly pleased at finding so
fine a city, for even in those day^ Montreal was a busy place during the
summer season. He fortunately met with Mr. Clark, of the firm of Clark
(fc Street, merchants. Mr. 0. entertained him very kindly, and told him
that he had seen his Uncle Nehemiah at Quebec with his ship the " Lord
Sheffield," which was then loading with flour for St. Croix, in the West
Indies. Ha-ving remained in Montreal a few days, he bade adieu to his
friends and companions, and took passage in a schooner, which, in a short
time, landed him at Three Rivers, a distance of 90 miles from Montreal.
Here he was hospitably entertained by some of his father's friends in the
Fort. Being then but 15 years of age, and of an ardent and sanguine
temperament, he enjoyed his trip amazingly. After surveying this old
historic spot and seeing the R. C. Cathedral, he prepared for his departure,
his object being to reach his uncle before he left Quebec. So finding there
was no vessel going down by the river, he hired a caleche, and was driven
the rest of the distance along the bank of the St. Lawrence.

10
The country on the routo was well settled ; and Baptiste the driver wari
as communicative as drivers usually are ; so the time and distance flew pasfr
quickly till they arrived at the ancient city of Quebec. Dismissing his
driver to return, he went down to the wharf and found his uncle, who gave
him a cordial welcome. Our youthful traveller was soon in deep converse
with his newly-found relative, to whom ho told all the news of the great
and new country in the West, of the large lakes, of the Niagara Falls, and
particularly of his father and family at their homestead on the "Twelve.;
The bright and intelligent youth soon became a great favourite -with
hia uncle, who, whilst they remained in Quebec, took him to see all the
wonders of that quaint old city, with its churches, hospitals, barracks and
fortifications, including tho old Castle of St. Louis, and famous Plains of
Abraham, where nearly 50 years before, the illustrious waiTiors of England
and Prance, under Wolfe and Montcalm, had struggled for the prize of
haJf a continent. His romantic mind was delighted with his rambles
around this historic place. He visited the ruins of the Old Frendi
Fort, of which scarcely a vestige remained. Strangers strolled round to
examine the foundation walls, where occasionally might be found amongst
the rubbish an old bottle or other drinking utensil, from which perhaps
the soldiers of La Belle France in days gone by had quaffed their favourite
-wine. His uncle had procured him on his arrival a complete suit of sailor's
clothes, so that Hamilton in his uniform no doubt felt proud ofthe "Blue
Jacket," which in those days of desperate naval engagements, was the pride
of the British sailor.
The vessel having completed her cargo, in a few days all was ready,
and they bade good-bye to Quebec with its pleasing memories, and were
soon speeding down the noble river with a fine breeze and an ebb tide. The
really fine scenery of the Lower St. La-wrence, with its towering capes, its.
lofty range of Laurentian mountains, the numerous beautiful islands whidi
dotted the surface of tlie broad river, the shoals of white porpoises and
flying fish, had all atti-actions for our' hero, which delighted him beyond
measure. V/hilst on the voyage, he made himself acquainted -with the names of the
ropes and tho mysteries of sailing, and occasionally doing some writing for
his uncle, -(vho entertained him with descriptions of the French settlements
oa the shores which they passed.
They cast anchor off the Island of Bic, and here they spent a day
in enjoying themselves. All along the coast of Rimouski and Gaspe, it is
wild and romantic, -with mountainous scenery and sea fowl in abundance.
Ijcaving the Island of Anticosti on their left, and the great Bay of
Chaleurs on their right, they made into the open Gulf which separates
Nova Scotia from Cape Breton. Here Mr. Merritt first experienced tho

11
horrors of sea-sickness, which no doubt dL^tpelled much of the romance of
ocean life from his youthful mind. The calm waters which succeeded on
reaching the Gut of Canso soon made him well, and were such as to impress
him favourably with inland navigation, — a decisive step in after life.
Happily, they all arrived safe at Halifax, after a pleasant trip, which he
often looked back to and spoke of in after years. This was the time of the
war with France, so that Halifax was full of life and bustle.
Here he had an opportunity of seeing for the first time the noble ships
of war which England kept on this station. The king's naval yard was an
¦ extensive place then, being supplied with every kind of stores for the great
" Wooden Walls " which lay at anchor in the Bay, as this was the most
important foreign station that the British possessed, and was the capital of
British North America.
As his uncle's ship was about to sail for S. Croix under convoy of the
frigate Le Epervier, an event occurred which had a future influence on hia
whole life. Capt. Nickoll, whom his uncle brought from Quebec, had
contracted the fatal habit of drinking to such excess that at times ho was
not trustworthy ; so that instead of Mr. Merritt accompanying his relative
home to New Brunswick, his uncle determined that he should be his super
cargo for the voyage, with full powers to carry out his instructions.
The Lord Sheffield had a general cargo of lumber, flour, &c., suited to
the West Indian market, and the season being well advanced, they were
anxious to get away from Halifax ; but as they were about lea-ving the
harbour, three of their men w^ere impressed for Her Majesty's service, and
taken away from thom ; but through his uncle's influence they were soon
restored, and proceeded on their voyage.
This voyage was in every sense a most unsuccessful one, as a suc
cession of severe gales caused the ship to spring a leak, so that they
were compelled to part with their deck load of lumbar, and to bear up for
Charleston; but moderate weather induced them to alter their course towards
the Bermudas, and they arrived at the Island of St. George, after battlLag
¦with the elements for over five weeks. On entering the harbour, they were
nearly lost by mistaking the channel ; but a negro pilot, coming on board,
brought them safely in, where they anchored after a most perilous voyage.
The Captain, Mr. Laing, Mr. Merritt and Mr. Hamilton went ashore, glad
"to be safe on terra fi/rma again. Whilst they were seeing after the refitting of
their vessel at St. Georga, one of those violent huri'icances which are so
prevalent in the West Indies and are usually so destructive to life arid
property, suddenly arose, and such was the violence of the storm that tho
ship parted her cables, and was driven on to a danger in the harbour, known
as tho " Forks." Capt. Alwood reported his vessel, and obtained assistance
in getting her off and mooring her at Sheldon <k Goodrich's wharf, where
they prepared to^ unload. A survey by the authorities was held upon

12
the ship, when it was found that she was so badly strained and damaged afl
to be pronounced unseaworthy, so that she was dismantled and sold by
auction ; certainly not a vei-y favourable beginning for our young supercargo,
who so far had regularly kept a log-book of his voyage, and put to a practical
trial the theory of navigation which he learned from his old teacher, Mr.
Cockrell, at Burlington, a few years before. Fortunately, Mr. Merritt's
uncle had correspondents here ; so they wanted for nothing, but spent their
time on the Island in enjoying the beautiful climate for which the Bermudas
are famous, and seeing everjrthing worthy of notice.
They were compelled to stay here for six weeks, until finding a vessel
bound for New York, they engaged passages at $50 each, and left St. Greorge
on the 23rd of December, 1808. On the 31st of December, they had the
pleasure of sighting the Jersey shore between New York and Philadelphia^-
a remarkably quick passage, and finally reached Newport, Long Island,
having' only been 12 days on the voj^age. Arriviog at New York, he
fortunately found a vessel called the Union (Capt. White), bound for St.
John, N. B., for which port they sailed on the 15th of January, 1809, and
experienced a very rough passage, which can be better understood by those
who know what a voyage across this particular part of the Atlantic is in
this season, at a very low temperature, when every cloud of spray, and
every dash of foam which the ship encounters is instantly converted into
solid ice. The perils of this coast are at all times very serious, but doubly so
in -winter, when every rope and block is held by the iron grasp of the Frost
King, and the crew so benumbed that exertion is no easy task. On one
occasion the vessel came near being caught in the fatal embrace of the
breakers which lash -with awful grandeur upon this rugged and rock-bound
coast ; but by the mercy of Providence, they fortunately escaped ship-wreck,
and at length sighted Partridge Island light-house, at the mouth of the
harbour of St. John. The captain and Mr. Merritt got ashore, and obtained
a boat and crossed the river to St. John, where he lost no time in hastening
to his uncle's, and relating his adventures.
His friends were all delighted to meet him, an 1 shew him everything
worth seeing in the country. During his stay here, he continued his
education at a good English school, which was well patronized. On the
13th of March, his uncle sailed for England, leaving him with the family
during his absence.
St. John was founded by the American Loyalists at the time of th©
Revolutionary War, and was a refuge for them — Mr. Merritt's grand
father and uncles among the number. It stands on a rocky peninsula,
at the mouth of the River St. John, contained houses built of wood and
had a large and extensive commerce. Mr. Merritt's father, grandfather^
and part of his family emigi-ated here in 1783.

13
Here he studied 5ook-keeping, and also made further advances in
na-vigation, surveying, algebra and Latin. On the 6th of June he entered
college. Mr. McLoud taught him tiigonometry, and other sciences, suited
to an enquiring mind.
St. John was a busy town and a capital place for a young man . to gain
an insight into business. The stir and bustle of a large seaport is always
favourable for obsennng the many roads there are to fame and fortune, by
industiy and persevei-ance. Mr. Merritt had an opportunity of being
introduced into the society of the ladies, who in that locality were famed
for their good looks, good humour, and social habits. On reference to his
memorandum book, we find stated his impressions as a youth : — "The ladies
" are numerous here, very handsome, fresh, brisk, rosy and delicate, fond of
" out-door exercise ; in fine weather the streets are full of them ; glad to see
" young fellows of an evening to chat with, as beaux are somewhat scarce."
As a specimen of the manner in which Mr. Merritt occupied his time, we
extract the following from his well-kept diary : —
" April 30. — Heavy snow-storm ; spoiled tho ladies' promenade.
" May 1. — Herrings begin to make their appearance.
" 10th. — Went to grandfather's to see them cure and pack fish.
" 1 1th. — Commenced practical surveying.
" 14th. — Went to grandfather's to see the process of catching fish; very
cold ; glad to get to bed early, so benumbed.
" 15th. — Great many vessels arrived.
¦," 17th. — To the fishing grounds ; got 12 hogsheads at one haul.
" 21st. — To church the third time since arrival.
" 23rd. — Morning at college ; afternoon to Mr. McLoud's for algebra.
" June 5th. — Wrote a number of letters to old friends in Canada —
father, mother, sister, John Clark, Johnson, Butler, Mr. Jarvis, Mr. Secord,
&c.; all sent to Fredericktown to go by messenger.
" 24th. — Packet from England arrived. Heard of Uncle Nehemiah's
safe ai-rival there ; he only obtained £1,000 for his brig, Lord Sheffield, and
damaged cargo ; great loss to him. Went to take lunar observations at
Partridge Island ; came on foggy ; nothing done.
" 25th. — Rainy and dreary ; wish to be home again.
" 27th. — Went to a quilting bee — very agreeable.
" 29th. — Received a letter from father, dated May 15th, so that there
was only a week's difference between it and the letter from England — latter'
dated 9th May.
" July 3rd. — Birthday; sixteen years of age.
" 8th. — Went strawberrying -with a nice party — lots of fine young girls ;
very delightful.
" 22nd.  To church. Confirmed by the Bishop of Nova Scotia ; about
100 candidates ; two-thirds of them females.
" 24th.  Uncle Nehemiah arrived from England, soon after which con
cluded to return to Niagara ; spent time pleasantly until depai-ture."
Ha-ving taken leave of his relations and all kind friends in St. John and
its vicinity, Mr. Merritt made ai-rangements to return home, we think, iu

14
October. Tlioir vessel was laden -with plaster, and after coasting along the
shore, and taking refuge iu some harbour every night, until a gale at last
springing up, they were driven ashore on Martha's Vineyard, an island
lying off tbe coast of Massachusetts. Here they had to remain until they
found a small schooner, bound for Now York, which freed them from their
involuntary imprisonment. They reached " Shrogg's Neck " in Long Island
Sound, where another detention occurred, so that he shipped on a small
i<doop which took him to the old homestead, then called Byram, now Port-
chester, where he remained for several days -with his Uncle a'ld Aunt
Lyons. They were much pleased with the account of his adventures, and
agreed -with him that, in the majority of cases, ocean romances are highly
coloured. From this old seat of his family he went to New York, where he
remained a few days to amuse himself. There were then no steamers on
the mighty Hudscn River, and travellers had to take their chance in any
trading sloop or boat going to Albany, at which place he arrived in due
time. There purchasing a horse, he rode to Batavia, through the Cherry
Valley turnpike, and from thence on to Lewiston, where he crossed
the Niagara River by the ferry, and rode home to his father's residence on
the " Twelve." He arrived home just in time to eat his Christmas dinner,
and enjoy the festivities of the holiday season, which was then well kept,
much to the gratification of his parents at his safe return, and of his many
friends who were delighted -with his numerous adventures and miraciiloufl
escapes. *¦»*•##¦»?
The time had now arrived for Mr. Merritt to turn his attention to the
more sober affairs of life, and being of an active mind, he was deter
mined not te remain long idle. A thriving village was then springing up
near his home, — a store having been started during his absence, which
seemed to be well patronized. He thought there was a good opening for a
more general store, as the farmers were continually wanting something, and
had no time to go a great distance to obtain supplies. So he entered into
partnership with Mr. Chisholm, who kept the store alluded to, and had an
appropriate building. Having good recommendations the supplies were
obtained from Montreal, which then was the general mart for the whole
country, and has continued so since. Money was very scarce, and business
was almost entirely carried on by trade or barter. They received all kinds
of fai-ming produce in exchange for their goods, — ashes, pork, staves, honey,
hides, lumber, and fruit, — which they shipped to Montreal in payment of
their purchases there. Here he found the advantage of a good system of
book-keeping, for there were so many intricate accounts, that tho utmost
caro was required to keep affairs straight. In fact, Mr. Merritt always
thought that the failures in those days was principally for want of a good
knowledge of book-keeping.

15
Mr. Merritt continued in business with Mr. Chisholm until a short
time before tlie war broke out, when he sold the interest he had in the
business, and -went ou the homestead farm, which required his attention, as
his father's time was wholly taken up with the duties of his office as Sheriff.
He was now in his nineteenth year, and drawing towards manhood. There
might also have been another inducement, as he became warmly attached
to an amiable young lady. Miss Prendergast, whose family were located in
the -vicinity. Tho business of a country store was too contracted for hia
ideas. He required the open air, the verdant fields and nature's book to
carry out to perfection the ideas which were then germinating in his fertile
brain. He therefore resolved to turn agriculturist, and began farming on a
most extensive scale ; so that with his father's 200 acres of land, he rented
the adjoining farm, belonging to an Englishman, Mr. Kamuel Wood, in the
Commissariat Office, whose occupation, like that of his (Mr. Merritt's)
father, took him from home. With the proceeds of liia share of the late
mercantile business, he purchased teams, horses, cattle, and a complete stock
of farming implements sufficient for both farms, and in a short time he had
nearly 200 acres of land under cultivation, — nearly 120 in grain alone, —
besides roots and other supplies for horses and cattle, and everything that a
family stood in need of ; also two orchards, which supplied a large quantity
of fruits. This occupation he found conduced gi-eatly to his health and
spirits, and many of his operations and darling schemes in after life were
planned, like those of the Romans, beneath the shade of trees and in the
green pastures.
But everything is unstable in this uncertain world, as he found by
experience the following year, when the war-cloud burst on his peaceful
neighbourhood, and compelled him to exchange the ploughshare for tho
sword which his fathers^ had -wielded in years gone by.
The stream of Time pursues its ceaseless course, and the Whigs and
their descendants of the Revolution had become a nation; and in extending
their territory they came in contact with men of a similar origin, the sub
jects of Great Britain in the Provinces. The Colonists also frequently
visited the Western Counties of New York, — " going back to the Colony "
as they called it. Twenty -five years passed in mutual services, and friendly
intercourse had nearly obliterated the ill feelings engendered by the Revolu
tion. War was waged at a distance, but newspapers were few and were long
on the route to the back settlements, and uncertain of arrival. Some of
those in the interior, like Mr. Merritt, had visited the sea-board, and
thus came in contact with actual war ; but to the great body of the settlers,
war was a distant and uninteresting theme. The discussions regarding the
trade on the high Sea, brought on a coldness in the regions of the great

16
Lakes, and an embargo was put on their commerce, which led them to
anticipate that war might reach their peaceful homes. A Militia Act of 43
sections was passed on the meeting of Parliament on the 16th of March,
1808 ; and not too soon, as subsequent events will show. Mr. Merritt had
received a commission of Ensign, and a Lieutenancy just before the war
broke out.
• War was announced about the anniversary of the Battle of Bunker's
Hill, on the 19th of June, and was known here on the 27th of the same
month. An express was sent to the Govemor at York, who arrived at Nia
gara the next day. "On the 29th" says Mr. Merritt, " I had the honor of
" being presented to him ; on the 30th I had an order to repair to Chippawa
" -with 20 men, and place myself under the command of Col. Clark, of the
" 2nd Lincoln Militia. Here I found 20 more, over whom with my 20, I
" was placed in command. We were mostly engaged in patrolling up the
"banks ofthe river, expecting an attack, especially on the night of the 4th
" of July."
The Buffalo Gazette noticed 600 Volunteers on the frontier at the
commencement of the war. On the 30th June, it said: -'Immediately
" on a report of a declaration of war, the militia in the neighbourhood of
" the lines were ordered out. The ammunition and arms deposited at
" Canandaigua were despatched for their use at Black Rock."
The following extract from Mr. Merritt's printed journal of the war,
gives a vivid description of the feeling during these stirring times : —
" The flank companies, and all corps took a pride in doing their duty,
which was very severe, as we were in momentary expectation of an attack.
Patrols were kept up with little intermission along the whole line from
Fort George to Fort Erie. Those off duty were on fatigue : not-withstanding
which they improved rapidly in their discipline. Batteries were erected
on every eligible position on the lines. The gi-eatest possible exertions
were making for a vigorous resistance, tinder th^ eye of our commander,
who was continually on the move, visiting every post. This continued
until the 20th."
Mr. Merritt has said that riding along the Niagara River from Chippawa
to the ferry, first suggested the idea of a canal to his mind ; and it is but
reasonable to suppose that while on duty his thoughts and eyes would be
mainly towards the flo-wing river, on whose opposite bank were mustered
the invading horde ; and sometimes in fancy they would ascend the sluggish
waters of the Chippawa, when an imaginary channel would be made to the
sources of the Beaverdams, where thought would connect -with those dwell
ing on the Ten Mile Creek, or, perhaps, down the " Twelve," on whose
banks stood the ripened grain now falling to decay for want of tending
The circumstances of Mr. Merritt receiving a medal for the taking of
Detroit, when he was not at that place until tho following day requires
explanation at length, and as it affords an instance of the extremely small

17
means by which great results were attained in our remarkable struggle, will
not be without interest to the reader.
At this time, by a fortunate occurrence, the order given to the force on
the north-western frontier to act on the offensive, was, before the counter
order arrived, carried out by Lieut. Roberts, who, with his garrison of
invalids from the Tenth Royals, stationed at St. Josephs, and his allies—
the servants of the North-west Company,- and tlieii- Indians — in all number
ing over 1000 men, with two pieces of artillery, embarked from St. Josephs,
on the morning of the 16th of July, and arrived at the Fort of Mackinaw
the next day, which place they promptly invested ; and after a short
parley, the States forces there surrendered themselves as prisoners of war.
This most important event opened the alliance with the North-west and our
Indian allies, and resulted in the capture of the whole States territory west
arid north-west of the Maumecs, and as far south as St. Louia.
General Brock, the President, or Lieut.-Governor as the oflicsr is now
termed, had on his arrival, to make use of the material at hand : his superiors
in England, unable t-i a,ffv)rd him any officers or men, and Sir George
Prevost being unwilling, iu thy uncertain state of affairs, to risk any of his
forces above Kingston. Of his Attorney-General he made a military
¦ Lieutenant, succeeded by his clerk. Sir J. B. Robinson, also a militiaman,'
and not of age ; another of his military family was R. Nicholl, Commissary
(a merchant), and J. Clark, of the 4th Lincoln Militia ; T. Merritt, formerly
Cornet in Simcoe's Rangers, his Commander of Cavalry. The gentlemen,
mentioned being all intimately known, it is not to be wondered at that
placed as he was, a situation should be given to a youth just turned
19, who had displayed some zeal for his country, and that he should.
receive a medal when the service was performed, tlie same as the veteran
Col. Proctor.
The campaign of Napoleon against Russia made the Government of the
United States more compliant -with the views of the democrats with regard
to the expansion in America. The conquest of Spanish America was
for the present postponed. The arrival of the Wasp sloop of war with
the special envoy, afforded the signal for commeucing the war, which was
declared, as was noticed, on the 17th of June, 1812.
A talented writer in the United States lately, sa}',-;, iu his Biography of
President Harrison : — " Even before the declaration of war, Kentucky had
" made military preparations for the expected campaign. The Governor
" had organized ten regiments of volunteers, and Ohio had been equally
" active." Govemor Meigs was requested to call for troops to assemble at Dayton,
Ohio, in April. Next month, three regiments were assembled under
Brigadier-General Hull, of the United States Army. On the 1st of June,
the army commenced its march : it preceded the deslaration of war, and 2.5

1.^
days was considered enough for it to pass from the Ohio to Ihe valleys of the
St. Lawrence. The same gi-oimd in part was passed the year before under
Harrison, and terminated by the successful Indian battle of Tippecanoe, on
the Wabash. "In marching through a -wildemees," says Hull, "memorable
" for savage barbarity, it -will be impossible to repress the feelings of indigna-
" tion, and which the spirit of an indignant people can no longer endure."
At Urbana they were joined by the 4th Regiment, stationed there, under a
triumphal arch decorated with the mottoes of Tippecanoe, &c. Passing tho
watershed, they reached Maumee near the close of the month. Iluil's army,
for fear of .imbush, despite of example in similar expeditions through an
' Indian country, had left the Indian trail, and tho season being rainy, they
were detained on the march, and literally "stuck iu the mud," -which the
Indians by their experience from time immemorial had learned to avoid.
This circumstance found him on his amval at the lake stripped of hia
horses, waggons, ifec, for want of which he mado use of a couple of
schooner's lying at the mouth of the river, and in crossing it he was first
mado acquainted by a despatch, with the declaration of war, and notified to
be on " his g-uard." Up to this time the expedition, though large, bore
the appaaranoo of an Indian invasion, and only to appearances reaping the
frtiits 01 Harrison's victory of the 7th of November last, on the Wabash.
This could now no more bo maintained, aad the solo object ofthe campaign
¦ — ^the conquest of Canada, — must no-sv be published. St. George, tlie militia
officer, ha-ving received an order to act only on the defensive, alone prevented
Hull's advance being opposed, as intsUigence of the war had reached him
before it did the States General, who arrivod at Detroit on the 5 th of July.
His vessel — the Cayuga — was taken by a party under the command of
Capt. Rochelle, of Amherstburgh. After a week's delay, the General
crossed the river, and entronclied himself at Sandwich, nearly opposite ;
from which he sent out several expeditions, one of thom reaching to
Delaware. Colonel Proctor, who, according to Morgan, had brought over the 41st
Regiment a few years previous, -was not -with the detachment opposite
Detroit on the declaration of war, and the control of affairs -was thrown
into the hands of the Militia-Colonel St. George, who from the surprise or
other real obstructions, could not communicate with the Governor until
tho 20th. (Extract from Mr. Merritt's Journal.)
" Information arrived on that day (the 20th), -which changed our front
and lessened the necessity of watchfulness here. I got leave to -visit my
home on the ' Twelve,' which was the first leave of absence I had since the
beginning of the war, although a number of the Sedentary Militia had been
allowed to go home and gather in their crops. On arri-ving, I found mine
destroyed, except a small portion, which had been saved by an old pensioner
under mother's directions. In fact, the war had put an end to my future

19
farming operations, and I never worked a day at that occupation again. I
had not arrived many hours, when I was followed by my falher aiid Mx'meri,
¦with an order from General Brock to proceed to Delaware) alon* the RivSr
Thames -without delay, and keep open the commi^i cation- with^AmherSt-
burg. He added, 'I am well pleased with your exei-tions.-and wish, youto
see more active service.' I immediately prepared for departi^re,, and went
off the same afternoon. On the following day I arrived at Oxford.' Col.
Bostwick was there with the militia who had'just assembled. ' I heard of
Mr. Watson being at Delaware with 10 or 12 men. I pushed oii with the
¦design of surprising him. A few miles before I an-ived at the place, I fell;
in with Mr. Tiffany, -who apprised me of his being at Allen's,; with a nuipber
of men well armed ; likewise that the country would all join hipi. I sent
back to Col. Bostwick for a few of his men. I took possession oi a liouse
about six miles from Allen's, and called ourselves Yant'eefe ; the peO'ple
discovered their sentiments to us, so I made a dozen of them prisoners,
detained all but one until the moming. When Col. Bostwick ai-rjy;ed, -wo ,
took two of the party, moved on and surrounded old Allen's house,., but
Watson had made his escape ; we took Allen and the two prisoners, witli, us,
and returned to Oxford. T left a sergeant and four men there ; hear4 of
Major Chambers, ofthe 41st Regiment approach; met him ait, Burfor(jl,, lie
did not retard my return to Fort George with the prisoners. ,'On ari:i-ving,
I found that Gen. Brock had sailed for York. I followed him in a boa^;,
-and reported myself He was well pleased with my proceedings, an^'spt
me back with a detachment of 28 men, I was too well 'satisfied witli my
eommand, to be long on the journey, Major Chamber's was at Oxford!, -witH
40 Regulai-s and 100 Militia." ' '" ' ''¦' "
On the road they were detained by Col. Talbot, and did not readh' Detroit
until the day after the occupation was made. It is unnecessary' to ' detail
the incidents of this action so creditable to all engaged on- Our side. '
Mr. Merritt remained here, foraging for the troops until the 7tHof Sep*-'
tember, when he retumed to Niagara, which he reached in eight day*,
they being in expectation of an attack on that frontier. Whilst at Detroit,
he -wrote a letter to his affianced, detailing these events in full.' - ' •- ; : .
Ih the Buffalo Gazette of September the 8th, an account is given of the -
meeting of the County of Niagara, at Buffalo, and of the appointment of a
Committee of Safety. A report that Grand Islsfnd (the Indian reserve) had
been taken by the British, brought out the Indians under Red. Jacket, and
from the same paper of the 29th of September we extract ¦ —
"About 140 warriors of the Seneca Nation from the Alleghany River,
arrived in town last week, and are encamped near, more being, expected .
from different parts. Several Councils were held. Yestei'cjay, they per
formed a war dance in the streets, (fee."
General Brock had retumed to the Niagara frontier with his force ; and
. the West being comparatively safe, he hastened to make every disposition^
for defence, as the armistice was near ended. Mr. Merritt was stationed
at Fort George during the bombardment that succeeded the armistice. No
casualties occurred, although the troopers, ¦with their horses, were quarterdd
in an exposed situation on the bank of the river.

20
Early on the moming of the 13th of October, 1812, General Brock,
whose headquarters were at Fort George, received a dispatch by one of the
dragoons who were patrolling the river, to the effect that the enemy had
landed at Queenston, in considerable force, under the Militia-General Van
Rensaller. General Brock, with his immediate staff, hastened to the scene
of action, leaving the available reserves at Niagara to follow ; among the
first of these to arrive were the cavalry under the command of Major Mer
ritt. To their surprise and chagrin, they met a number of stragglers from
the militia, who, when asked why they were behaving in this manner,
replied that they only followed the example of the regulars, whom they
had beaten in their retreat. Rumours ^vere now whispered about of the
death of the General, who had been reported only wounded.
The following extract fyom Mr. Merritt's printed journal will explain
subsequent events; —
¦ " The stragglers having collected at Durham's, (about a mile distant on
the Niagara road), General Sir R. H. Sheaffe, ha-ving assumed command.
Major Merritt's dragoons were ordered to advance. These, with the Indians-
under Captains Brant, Norton, and Kerr, kept the enemy on the heights,
which they had first occupied, and so allowed Gen. Sheaffe to form in their
rear. So near were the pickets stationed that whilst waiting for the action to
commence, Mr. Merritt and the U. S. officer commanding exchanged shots
in duello fashion, each taking a firelock from their men, who had been
carrying on a fusilade on their own account."
It is unnecessary to detail the particulars of this memorable battle, ia
which, although the numbers was small on both sides compared with other
actions, yet the spirit and bravery evinced by the militia during the combat
was such as to show their firm resolve to defend their soil. And the
action has since been looked upon as the Bunker Hill of Canada.
Major Merritt, holding the position of commander of the militia cavalry
of Upper Canada, was deputed by Gen. Sheafte to receive the swords of
the enemy, which was done by riding along the column and placing them
on his saddie-bow, making quite a large load. Some of these weapons
remain in the family to the present day. Mr. Merritt remained with
his troops patrolling the river during the rest of the campaign, with the
exception of a week's absence on the 20th of November,, to the Detroit
frontier, on a confidential mission from Gen. Sheaffe to Col. Proctor. The
only thing notable during this expedition was the crossing on the ice of
the' River Thames — the first of the season. Mr. Merritt was stationed at
Fort Erie during the demonstrations of Gen. Smith, of the U. S. regulai"^
army, who, since the defeat of Van Rensaller of the militia had taken
the command of the frontier. •
Diiring the winter of 1812-13, important changes were made in the
organization of the forces on the Niagara frontier. Volunteer regiments
were formed to serve during the war, amongst whom Colonel Robinson and

21
others distinguished themselves. The militia were still liable to be called
for duty at any moment. The following graphic letter, to the same party
at Detroit, written by Mr. Merritt at this time, shews pretty clearly the
state of affairs, and tho feelings of the people in this section, on his return
from Kingston, whither he had baen dsspatDhed for reinforcements : —
"Niagara, February, 1813.
 " I have not been a month in the same place since last
June. I have now returned from Kingston ; my situation is both honorable
and lucrative. Our winter has been passed gaily; we had a splendid assembly
last night, given by Col. Myers, commanding officer here. A Brigade of 50
and 60 sleighs, with stores and troops, fi-om Lower Canada, arrives here
weekly. Every exertion has been made for our defence. The coldest
weather has never delayed our workmen. You would be astonished to see
the alterations which have taken place on the lines since you left here.
Niagara has been battered pretty well. The Yankees endeavored to set it on
fire, but the activity of the inhabitants dissappointed them, the Court House
being the only building burned, so far. I wish the ensuing Spring was over,
— not that I dread the event, as I believe we will always be victorious, with
the help of God ; but I grieve to think of so many brave fellows losing
their lives to no purpose, except gratifying the ambition of Mr. Madison or
TBonaparte. General Winchester and staff still remain opposite. We sent
over 500 prisoners again yesterday. All has been very quiet here for some
time past. Every family have moved back, in anticipation of a coming strug
gle. So far, I have had the pleasure of seeing <all our exertions crowned
with success. There are two families in every house at the 'Twelve,' and
two families are occupying your former residence on the ' Ten. ' All the
young men from that place are in a picked company. James Dittriok has
distinguished himself James Turney has been down. Most of the young
men here think themselves veterans, having been so fortunate in every en
counter with the enemy. With regard to the female part of the community,
on the alarm, the place will be tilled with women — every one coming to see
if the object of their affection was safe. I am sorry to say we have lost
some very valuable men — more by sickness than by the sword. Col. John
son and 'fhomas Butler I mentioned in my last." 
Mr. Merritt, in his journals, gives us the following incidents concerning
the second invasion of the Niagara frontier : —
" On the 25th of February, I retired from the service and went home
to the 'Twelve,' and while there, I received a note from Lieut.-Col. Harvey,
Major Glegg, and other officers, asking me to raise a troop of horse, which
duty, after a period of two or three weeks at home, I undertook. In 14
days I had 42 rank and file enlisted. On the 25th of March, they were in
orders, and stationed on the Niagara River, where we saw the enemy were
collecting in force. We vvere apprehensive of an attack, the enemy having
command of the lake. On the 20th of April the militia were called out,
having been reinforced by some of the Glengarrys, Newfoundlands and
Kings. A week later the attack was made on York, a place comparatively
undefended, where the Legislature had but lately arisen, and where but
three days previously the Loyal and Patriotic Society had held a meeting
for the purpose of appropriating sums of money to those who had be-en
bereft of friends in the defence of the country.

"On the evening of tha 29th of April, I was deputed by Brigadier Gen.
Vindent' to bring down all the boats from Burlington, which was accom-
'pHshedMri 1 6 'houVs. The enemy -svith their fleet retumed to Fort Niagara.
From this time till the 27th May, every man w.as turned out at two o clock
in, J;he, morning, and remained under arms. Some men were twelve nights
in succession on guard. Our small force was formed into three divisions :
Col. Myers with ' Kings,' and two companies of militia, defended the lake
coast. to 'the Fqur Mile Creek. Col. Hai-vey, with three companies of New-
.ionndlands p,iid ^^iree companies of Glengarrys, one company of the 41st,.
ofie company o'f the 44th, and two of militia, up the river to Queenston.
"Gen.. Vincent, with the 49th Regiment, and militia in rear of Fort George,
^tO act as occa!?ion might require. Col. Harvey and myself rode up and down
the river, during tHe night, and slept at day. On the 25th the enemy com
menced operations by cannonading Fort George, -which they burned. For
-\vaiit of ampiun,ition we were unable to return their fire. On the 27th, at
4 in the morning, they were discovered under cover of a thick fog. They
Vo'mmeiiced'.to land by 9 A. M. Our right and left di-visions were obliged to
fall back on the reserve, which, numbering but 800 men, were forced to retire.
I -"After finding the boats commanded by Commodore Barclay, who were
at.T^'onty Mile Creek, with the light company of the Kings, and ordering
the troops, ,down, I retumed with them as far as ' Shipman's,' where I was
'met by a message, and ordered to go to DeCew's, to which place tho army
had retreated. Remaining all night, I took tho party through the woods,
.arriving there jiaxt morning at 9 o'clock on tho 28th May.
I, ."jThis day bho jmilitia were disbanded, and the Regulars marched to
¦Qrimsby, dri the way to Burlington Heights. Early on the 29th I returned
to the Twelve, at Shipman's, where the enemy had its advance guards. I
.^mained 'at my father's until midnight, when I retumed to Grimsby to report.
Here I was ordered to remain with tho troops and a few militia until
.driven.,off by the enemy. Their appearance next day was with a flag of
truce, shortly followed by a party whose force caused me to retreat to Stony
(Greek, onthelstof June. During the next week we had several skirmishes,
in -which.! lost some of my men."
'¦'J As it is riot'our intention to enter upon a general history of the war further
than is necessary to briefly show the events which our subject v,^as engaged
' in, otlier-wisB we could give a prominent place to the credit.ible engagement
at Brownstown, on tho Slstof January, and at the River Raisin, where our
troops Under Proctor gained a decisive victory over the enemy. Also the
gallant cbndupt of tho Lower Canadians in keeping at bay an overwhelming
force frqin the Champlain District. We will therefore follow Mr. Merritt
through the remaining events of tho war, '^y giving copious extracts from
his journals dnd' other important documents relating to the subject. How-
c-i?er', iis the figHtat " Stony Creek " was to a great extent the turning point
of this year's.' caippaign, and its results most important upon the then present
Wjeiffire of .the Niagara frontier, we consider that our work would be incom-
ipj.ete .without this very important engagement.
~. After thej^enOtoy' had succeeded in obtaining a foothold on the Niagara
^cnirisila, it seemed fo all the residents of that locality, that the policy then

23
most apparent was the abondoning of this section of the country to its fate.
The militia, who were prepared to i-esist the invader and contest ev'ery inch
of the way, were plainly t>)ld that "they might go home if th ey chose,'' so
that the pro.spoat held out to those '.hvelliug in the locality, and .also serving
their coant;-y with a genuine zeal, iva^ anything but pleasing. Numbers of
them w-^ro men of familiivi or had c ,im.!ction in the neighbourhood, so that it
requires no stretch of the imaginaoion to fancy the feelings of those men
who had already by their arduoaa watchings along the ragged banks
ofthe Niagara river, by their incessant devotion to military rule and disci
pline, and by their undaunted courage and pluck in turning a defeat into a
victory on thp steep acclivities of Queenston Heights, when their stubborn
valour alono had for a time saved the country from the horrors of an
invading foe, and drivt'u liiek the tide of war over the blue waters of the
mighty stream, preserving for Brit;un, whose name they only know by tradi
tion, a continent which in late years has been dignified by a royal laureate,
with the significant words of " the true North." No wonder that they
murmured at the order to " go homa if thoy chose,'' instead of fighting the
enemy, when they were confident and felt well able to beat him as they'd
done before. With lieartrburning feelings no doubt, Mr. MeiTitt at this time
penned the following words in his journal : "I felt in a sad dilemma — the
" thought of abandoning tho country, and leaving ovei-ything that was near
" and dear to me, was most distressing ; still more so, the unhappy situation
" of my family, whom we left totally unprotected. My father knowing tho
"insults he would be subject to if he remained, determined to follow tho army.
" For me there was no alternative, or I sliould certainly have remained behind
"to protect my mother and sisters." . .  ,
This was no solitary case of devotion, a.^ many militiamen in the
district followed the army, in their retreat to Burlington, buoyod up by the
hope that a stand might still be made within the limits of the old District.
During this retreat, Mr. Merritt with hii dragoons kept the rear of the
artav covered, and by hi^j knowledge of the country was well informed of
the whereabouts ofthe advancing foe, although tlie duty was an arduous one,
as the men were without rest or sleep for six or eight days.
When Mr. Merritt reached Burlington, a relief was sent to tho rear in
his place ; hero he met his sister, Mrs. Gordon, and her husband, who was
stationed in Dundas, and for a brief spaco was in good quarters.
On the 5th and 6th of June, the enemy kept pressing on, and drove in
the pickets of the rear guard as far as Aikman's. On tha 6th Mr. Merritt
dined with Mr. Gordon, in Dundas, aud on his return to quarters at Bur
lington, was ordered to fall in with the main body at Barnard's, where the
troops were formed in line of battle, expecting the ememy every moment.
A reconnoisanco by Col. Harvey and Coronet McKenney, revealed the fact,
that the enemy were encamped for the night at Stony Creek, and that

they had a party of 1,500 men on tho Lake shore. On the return of the
party sometime near midnight, when Mr. Merritt and a number of officers,
were lying on the gi ass fast asleep, a suggestion -ivas made either by Coronet
McKenney or Mr. George, an Ensign in the Militia, that it would be a
good idea to attack the tntmy in their csmp, and piolably surprise them
before daylight shewed the real state of their numbers. Col. Harvey
approved of the plan, and proposed it to General Vincent, who after a little
deliberation proceeded to caiTy it into effect, much to the joy of all who
left their homes a few days ago in grief and sadness of heart.
In the dead silence of a warm summer's night, the order to advance
-was quietly given, and never were preparations for a deadly grapple with an
in-vading foe more heartily received. It has been truly and eloquently said
that the battle of Stony Creek was neither a Waterloo nor an Inkermami,
but, that the issues at stake for the men of the Niagara peninsula were, every
thing equal, as important in their results as the success of the most dearly
won field that ever the conquerors rested upon.
Mr. Merritt in his journal of the war, gives the following account of this
important fight :—
" The order came to move forward ; we had to march six miles before
we came up to their pickets ; our force consisted of only 500 men, with one
field piece in the rear, which was of no manner of use. All my hopes
depended upon this bold enterprise, for had. we not attacked them they
would have advanced the next morning, and in all probability we should
have retired without i-isking an action, as our force was not one-third of
theirs. Proctor and the whole upper country would have fallen.
" On our arrival at Davis's we heaid a report of a gun from their
picket ; the detachment halted, formed into sections, and the loading was
drawn from each gun. The light companies of the 49th Kings were in' ad
vance ; Gen Vincent and staff at the head of the column in their rear. I
was attached to him for the night. The enemy were cnca,mped on Gage's
fields, in a very advantageous position ; 2,000 of their men were on the hill
to the light of the road, and 500 in a lane on the left, in advance of then-
artillery, which was situated on a hill directly in front of the road that our
troops must come ; their pickets nearly a half mile in advance, also in the
woods. These we made prisoners, without giving alarm. On our entering
the cleaiiag we were fired on by the second picket, who were more alert.
The 500 on our left were the first that were discovered.
" Gen. Vincent ordered a charge, and our men set up a tremendous
shout, which continued along the whole line, and was the cause of throwing
the enemy into the greatest disorder and confusion imaginable. Our two
light companies of the 49th routed the 500 before the main body had time
to come up. Coronet George was by my side, and told me the" ficht was
over, and the victory ours.
"I happened to cast my eyes around, and discovered the.fires of the main
body, which I shewed him. Col. Harvey and the officei-s were usin<T every
exertion to get the men foi-med, when the enemy opened a most tremendous
fire on us from the hill, and likewise opened from their guns on the opposite
side. ¦ Our ' men WeVe dispersed in every direction ; and had not Colonel

Penderlethe, with 30 men, charged and captured their guns, we should have
been completely defeated. I never heard so r.apid a discharge of musketry;
the hill was a continual sheet of fire. However, after capturing their artil
lery and both their generals, they thought proper to retreat from the field.
At the appearance of daylight we followed their example, fearing that when
they discovered our force they would renew the attack.
"After we left the field. Col. Harvey desired me to return, and if pos
sible find Maj. Gen. Vincent, supposed to be either dead or wounded. Not
thinking of the enemy, I was challenged by a sentry under old Gage's house.
I was on the point of surrendering, as my pistols were both in my holsters,
when I adopted the stratagem of enquiring 'who placed him there V and
rode up to him. He, by my blue military coat, took me for one of hia
own party, and answered 'his Captain, who had just gone into the house
with a party of men.' I then enquired if he had found the British General,
and pulled out my pistol, which made him drop his gun. At that moment
a man without any gun ran down the hill ; I called him ; he came, wheri I
had the good fortune to secure both, and bring them off. This stratagem
had succeeded once before, or I should not have thought of it."
Tlie enemy retreated next morning, followe.i by droves of Indians and
militia, who on hearing of the fight gathered from all parts. ISIr. Merritt was
rejoiced to get back once more to the old homestead on the "Twelve,'' although
his outpost had only arrived at the Twenty Mile Creek. The ordinary ex
citement of outpost duty seems to have had a charm for him at this time,
as he volunteered to keep the advance of the army, and in consequence ran
severe risks of being either killed or made prisoner ; in fact his energy and
activity, coupled with his intimate knowledge of the country, made him so
obnoxious to the enemy that they several times tried to effect the capture
of him and his small pai ty, but without success. On the 24th June, Col.
Boastler and about 600 of the enemy endeavoured to take them, hut got
caught at the Beaverdams, and had the mortification of being defeated and
made prisonei'S, with his N\hole force, except six men who escaped. Mr.
Merritt's party formed tlie escort, who took the prisoners to head quarters
on the " Forty."
The duty at this time was very harrassing, as it included nearly every
thing that outposts ai-e engaged in. At one time feeling the lines of the
opposing force, or learning the whereabouts of their scouting parties ; and at
others, hunting the country for forty or fifty miles round, after secreted spies ;
so that, taken on the whole, very little time was given for rest or relaxation.
The head quarters of the army had now moved on to the " Twelve ;'^'
Gen. Vincent taking up his quartei-s at Squire Adams' homestead. On the
29th, an alarm came that the whole States army were again advancing, which
caused Mr. M. to be sent off to ascertain the truth, which was, that they
had never left their entrenchments. On the 1st of July, the advance was
pushed on to St. Davids. On the 2nd, being at the " Twelve," Mr. M. was
presented to Major Gen. De Rottenburgh, who had arrived to take command

26
of the ai-my, as well as being President of the Province. Mr. M. Sa.ys,
" He brought wit!j him a very great name, .so we expected he would do
wonders. In fact he did nothing."
The 3rd was his birth-day — he being twenty years old — which his friends
at the " Twelve" celebrated -with a fine dinner prepared by his mother. The
advance was then at the Eight Mile Creek ; and Mr. M. being sent -with a
flag of truce, was made prisoner by a Major Forsyth, who detained him for
a few hours, and treated him and his party in a most rascally manner ; which
being represented to the States General, Dearborn, dismised the Major.
He was afterwards killed at Odell Town, L. C, by a skirmishing party. A
number of India;, s now anived from tho west, and were received by their
dusky companion's with the army, in grand style.
On the 6th, Mr. M. was sent down to Cassell Chorus, near Niagara, iu
company with Captain Hamilton, Jarvis, McKenny and Ball, to find some
medicine which was buried there. Whilst on this expedition, they had a
slight skirmish with some States dragoons, without any result. Next day
they procured a -w-aggon, had the chest dug up and sent off. Whilst at
breakfast, iu Squiro P. Ball's, a fight commenced between the Indians vnder
Captain Norton and Chief Blackbird, and about 600 of the States Infantry.
Into this fight ]\Ir. Merritt and his party Vi'ere reluctantly drawn; but by
their example, the Indiana became master of the field ; the enemy's loss
being 50 in killed and taken prisoners. Mr. Slerritt says: " For this recontre
I was " mentioned in general orders, and got more credit than I deserved,
"as I was drawn into it against my will. . I was rather flattered
" by this mark of distinction, conscious the service had been well performed."
The Indians were very troublesome in the neighbourhood where they
encamped by the Ton, and Mr. Merritt removed to that .'tiition with the beet
part of his troop, which kept them in check, and under better discipline.
Tliehead quarters were now removed to St. Da-vids, with the army at the
Four Mile Creek, and the advance a mile further on, in entrenched positions,
so that the old gro-and was nearly all regained. Whilst here, Mr. Merritt
gays "he had very little to do except taking tea with the ladies." .Here he
was taken sick for a few days, but soon recovered. On the 20th a troop of
the 19th Light Dragoons arrived, and Mr. Merritt obtained permission to
go to Montreal to bring up the long proiiiisetl appointments for his troop,
the men of which wero by this time nearly n-aked. The saddles and bridles
were in a bad state, and the men were ma.<.lo complete "post boys" of; still
they did their duty in the most patient manner, although they were often
Badly abused and over-worked. Having obtained letters from Col. Harvey
and others to Col. Baynes, the Adjutant Gen., on the 28th Mr. Merritt left the
Twelve, en route for Montreal, on horse-back ; and accompanied by his servant,
he arrived in Kingston on the 2nd of August, and here met another troop
of the 19th Dragoons on their way up. He presented his letters to the

27
Adjutant Gron., who kindly received him ; he was also presented to Sir Geo-
Prevost and other distinguished individuals ; but on applying for the appoint
ments for his troop, he was informed that the remoi'al of the 19th Regulars
had done av^ay with the necessity of their services, and that had it not been
for Mr. Merritt's personal exertions, the troop would have been disbanded ;
further, that the war could not possibly last six months longer. These
remarks so annoyed Mr.Merritt that he immediately tendered his resignation,
-which, however, was not accepted. He acknowledges the friendship of
Major Fulton upon this occasion.
He then proceeded on to Montreal ; but his opinion of the Commander-in-
Chief was not quite so favourable as formerly : in fact he learned for the
first time that there was a prejudice against the militia by military men,
which was getting to be very annoying to the inhabitants. He found that
he was a particular favourite when on particular ser^-ioe, but that being over,
he was forgotten.
In Montreal he waited on Sir R. H. Sheaffe, and Capt. Loring, his
Aidecamp, who from old acquaintance sake treated him kiiidly and did every
thing in their power for him. He procured clothing for his men, but
could not get the other appointments, as they had not arrived at Quebec.
He spent three weeks in Montreal, and had the pleasure of finding that his
friends in the Upper Province had full credit for everything they had done in
defence of the country, and was pleased in finding that the Ptcgulars had
not obtained all the glory. Mr. Merritt arrived in Kingston on his way
home, on the 28th of August.
A trip up the Lake at this time partook of no small share of general
excitement, as Mr. Broomhead, an English gentleman, who accompanied
Mr. Merritt to Upper Canada, for the purpose of seeing Niagara Falls, must
have found out. Extract from Journal: —
"After an iniinito deal of trouble, I obtained a boat at Kingston, and
left there in the first part of September, in company with two other boats. In
passing Presque Isle, I heard a cannonading between the two fleets. It
'was a running fight from the Gen esee Harbor to Kingston. On the 1 0th, e-arly
in the moming, I left Smith's Creek with a fair wind ; discovered two sails
ahead; fearing they might be the enemy, I prudently put back to the Creek;
I took a boat and reconnoitred and found them to be enemies — I retumed
and landed everything from the boats, ono of whicli had a quantity of specie
for the Commissariat. We drew up our forces at the mouth of the Creek
(consisting of 20 men with 12 muskets only.)
"I sent expresses in all directions for the militia; the vessels came
opposite to us and laid off for some time, but did not think proper to land.
Nothing particular occurred during the remainder of tho passage to the
Twelve Mile Creek, where we arrived on the 20th of September."
During his absence his family were very ill, but were recovering when
he arrived. A naval engagement also occurred on the Lake opposite the
witrance to the " T-welve," where, on the 4th of August, Sir James Yeo

28
bore down on part of the enemy's fleet, and captured two of them, another
ship upset, and went to the bottom with all liands, and the remainder escaped
to « harbour. When Mr. Merritt arrived from below, he found the
prospect very gloomy ; the army was sickly and dispirited ; many were desalt
ing ; nearly all the Indians had gone. His own troop was in a most
wretched state. *
If he had not feared that his motives might have been misinterpre
ted, he would have resigned, an act which[no doubt would have been justified
under the circum.stances, as the duty was both onerous and fatigueing, and
the reward, nothing — hardly the thanks of his superiors in the regular army.
However, his feelings arose with the general depression, and he turned hi9
whole attention to his troop, which rapidly improved, both men and horses;
in fact his determination of receiving justice or leavir.g the service proved
of the greatest advantage, as his men received every allowance that was
extended to the 1 9th Pi,egulars. He discarded the imperfect horses in his
troop, and like a prudent and "agaciou.s officer, re-furnished his stud at the
expense ofthe enemy, by making an occasional foray where least expected,
and carrying off their best horses.
A general movement of tha enemy from the Niagara frontier do-wn to
Saokett's Harbour, or rather Lower Canada, caused General De Rotten
burgh and suite, with Col. Harvey, to go to Kingston. They were followed
by the 49th and 104th Voltigeurs, and Glengarry Light Infantry Regiments,
which materially diminibhed the strength of our force, and made many feel
uneasy at the weak state of the army.
General Vincent was left in command with part of the 1 00th Regiment,
King's Royals, one company of the 89th and one or two companies of Glen-
,garrys. This small force kept General Scott, with about 1,000 U. S. regu
lars and a good force of militia, closely blockaded within the precincts of
Fort George and Niagara town.
<!)n the 7th of September, they made an attack on the outlying pickets
on the swamp road, who followed and di-o'.e them into the garrison. On
returning, they found our force, when a lengthly^ skirmish occurred, and
continued without intermission until evening, when each party withdi-e-ff.
The loss was trifling. Col. Murray, who commanded the rear guard, behaved
in a most gallant manner. From that time forward Mr. Merritt courted his
friendship raore than any other officer in the army.
In the beginning of October, Mr. Merritt's brother-in-law. Mr. Gordon,
left the " Twelve" for Burlington, in a boat, containing his wife and family.
O.-i nearing the Forty Mile Creek, they encountered a violent storm, and
were nearly drowned. They were accompanied by a younger sister of Mr,
Merritt's who was ill at the time. The severity of the voyage, and the
-getting she got, brought her to the verge of the grave.
On the 7 th and 8th of October Mr. Merritt got two days leave of absence]

29
to go up to see her, expecting to find her a corpse; but to his surprise and
pleasure, on his arrival he found her much better.
On thp mortiing of the 9th, when preparing to return, he heard from
Captain Hertchy that the whole army was on the retreat to Burlington.
It seems that on the 9th General Vincent heard of Proctor's defeat, and
fearing General Harrison would follow up his victory on .the Thames, and
get possession of Burlington Heights, he destroyed all his stores, but left a
large quantity of flour, part of which fell into the hands of the enemy.
Mr. Merritt was astonished, and rode back as fast as possible, to find
everything in confusion, and the men scattered in all directions; he met
the advance guard at the Fifteen Mile Creek. His father determined to
foUow the army ; but being very ill, after much p6r,guasion he consented to
remain at home. The trials of his family were very severe at this impor
tant time, as Mr. Merritt's Journal shews: —
"There was no help to be had, for everything remained exposed in tho
house for the first marauding party to plunder, which I was certain would
be done. Maria retumed and stayed with my father, mother and sister at
the Forty Mile Creek, more dead than alive, Caroline, her husband, and
two children at Burlington, all sick, and myself on the way wherever
fortune chose to bear me. Such another scene I hope never to witness again.
There was not a dry cheek to be seen in parting with the good people, as
they were confident we must be off, this being the second time."
Mr. Merritt left home at 10 o'clock at night, and marched as far as
Couse's in a heavy rain; he breakfasted at Mr. Nelles's, with his toother,
who was nearly out of her senses ; his invalid sister he found fast recover
ing. He arrived at Burlington, and from there was sent to Dundas. Here
helieard from his father, to whom the States troops under Col. Chapin had
behaved very -well. A traitor named Wilcox had the management of the
civil offices of the districts. Mr. Merritt and soihe of his friends would
occasionally ride as far as the Forty Mile Creek to see the ladies, and were
nearly taken prisoners one evening when returning. On the 10th or 12th
of Noyember he was sent to Fort George with a fiag of truce, and if possible
to find out the strength of the enemy, and establish a correspondence, so
that information could be got of their movements. On arriving at the
Fort, he heard that his father had been made prisoner by the traitor Wil
cox. This circumstance so enraged Mr. Merritt that in his Journal he tells
us of "having taken many a long and weary ride, in the lonely hours of the
night, in hope of catching Wilcox and making an example of him, and all
traitors," of whom it appears there were not a few in the district. He was con
ducted blindfold to General Hanison's quarters, and was treated with every
attention by the States General, who sent across the river for Mr. Merritt's
father, and promised to send him home in a day or two.
A: report having reaohed General Vincent that the fleet on Lake Erie
was driven ashore »t Point Albino, he despatched Mr. Merritt across the

30
¦country to ascertain the truth, and destroy the fleet sooner than let them
fall into the hands of the enemy. After riding for several days in miserable
weather, and over roads almost impassable, he found the report to be
false. While here, he heard that the fleet on Lake Ontario was in the same
predicament, which made him hasten back, as the report if true, was far
more important than the other.
Whilst on the return back a strange affair occured, whereby he and Cor
onet McKenny, his bosom friend, were near shooting each other in the dark
ness, they having mistaken each other for one of the enemy's pickets.
Mr. Merritt remained some time in Dundas, and believed that his leaders
had given up the idea of retaking the country. The old town of Dundas,
peacefully reposing at the base of the mountain, was a pleasant place to
live in during these stii-ring times, containing a number of the oldest and
most respectable families then settled in the district, whose^ hospitality was
proverbial, and vihose houses were always opon to the loyal defenders of
the country. It is not to be wondered at that the officers quartered at
Burlington, paid occasional visits to the old valley city, where the kindly
greetings and pleasant smiles of the fair sex gave a cordial welcome to the
war-worn soldiers, and "lightened their troubles v/ith the fashionable amuse
ments of the times.
On the evening of the 1st of December, 1813, when the rigours of a
Canadian winter was felt without, and the sound of tlie merry sleigh-beUs
tinkled over the frozen roads, which then wound with devious t-wistings
through the partly cleared forests, whose silence was unbroken save by the
voice of the solitary owl or the harsh bark of the prowling -wolf, — a large and
select party was assembled at the house of Miss Cooley, where, for the
evening, were gathered the brave and the fair of the old district. Glad
music, the dance, and happy song of other days soon chased the short hours
away. No doubt but that the oft -told tale was told again, and the pleasing
recollections of other days were again repeated, to add to the joys of the
night — when suddenly the harmony of the meeting was disturbed by the
loud knock of an orderly dragoon, who came to summon the officers there
assembled, from the tests of love to the sterner duties of war, as orders had
been issued for the army once more to assume the aggressive, and march
immediately. The parting good-by and the secret squeeze were soon given.
At midnight Mr. Merritt and and his troop were on their way to the .
Forty Mile Creek, where they anived by day-break, taking several prison
ers. They soon pushed their outposts to th e Twelve. Mr. Merritt procured
40 or 50 sleighs, and on the morning of the 9th proceeded to Ball's Mills,
loaded a number of them with flour, and sent them back to the main body;
-with the others, he pushed on to tho Twelve, and brought off his father
who was ill, and several others, besides what valuables he oould from Ms
house, as the enemy in their retreat thre.itened to bum the houses. On

31
informing Col. Murray of his expedition, he was severly reprimanded.
Soon after, a flag of truce made its appearance. Mr. Merritt rode over
to meet it, and received a letter for General Vincent. By a judicious
arrangement of his small force, he made the bearers of the flag believe that
the whole army -was advancing, and the greater part of it at the Twelve
whereas the advance was only at the " Twenty."
During the night he discovered by the glare, that the town of Niagara
was on fire, which caused the whole force to move on, as they knevr the
enemy were in a huiry to get out of the country. Col. Murray and part of
the 19tli dragoons soon came up, and they advanced near the burning town.
When a sad sight presented itself, as the following extract from his Journal
describes : —
"Nothing but heaps of coals, and the streets full of furniture that the
inhabitants were fortunate enough to get out of their houses, met the eye in
all directions. Mr. Gordon's house, my old quartei-s, was tho only one left
standing. The garrison was abandoned. Many tents left standing the
barracks and wood- work nearly consumed. We vi^ere very apprehensive
that a mine was left for our destruction ; a musket cartridge burst upon
our a.scending the cavalier bastion. Each took it for a match to a concealed
mine, and gave our lives up for a rise in the air, fortunately our fears wero
groundless  I returned to the Rev. Mr. Addison's, almost famished
with cold and hunger, and had a good sleep. On the 1 2th the whole army
were on the move from Burlington Heights. The general staff, and a cap
tain preceded to Fort Erie, and made some prisoners,"
Niagara was in ruins ! Of the once stirring little town — the hope and
pride of the surrounding settlers — little remained save a heap of smouldering
ashes. The small satisfaction it afforded the invaders was bitterlv felt and
amply revenged by the bold and successful movement which occurred in a
few days afterwards, when Buffalo shared the same fate at the hands of our
troops. Colonel Murray had now resolved to carry the war over the border, and
preparations were immediately made to transport tho troops across, and
attack Fort Niagara. Mr. Merritt was busily employed getting teams to
convey the boats down from Burlington. He also crossed the river with a
flag of truce, and came near pershing, in his conveyance, (a small punt) which
was drawn into a whirlpool, and almost swamped.
On the arrival of Generals Drummond and Riall, and Col. Harvey, the
attack was postponed until Captain Kirby arrived from Burlington, -with
the boats, which were soon brought do-wn to the Four Mile Creek, and from
there dra-wn to Wilson's ( the place sleeted for the embarkation ) unforeseen
difficulties prevented their crossing, although the men -were on the spot
waiting every night. The excitement pei-vading all ranks arose to fever
height. The cold and piercing winds w^hich at that season of the year swept
over the mighty lakes and barren hills, failed to damp the ardour of these
men -who were burning -with indignation to raise their flag upon the enemy's

32
soil, and with blood and fire avenge the destruction of Niag-ara, and wipe
out the insults which they had twice suffered from the invading foe.
Energy and activity was the order of the day ; every man was doing
his share to forward the preparations for attack, and confidence pervaded
all the ranl;a. Unfortunately for' our subject, tlie violent exercise and hard
work, both mentally and physically, which he had undergone during the
past few days, brought on a severe illness, and to his bitter mortification he
was taken home in a sleigh by his father, dangerously ill, just at the time
when he was to have crossed the Niagara River -with Colonel Murray, and
participate in the honour of witnessing its capture. Although absent sorely
against his vtdsh, still his ser-vices were not forgotten, as the following ex
tract will shew : —
" On Saturday night they crossed over, and were crowned with success.
This was another of my most unfortunate military events; as I had been em
ployed in all the other movements and honourably mentioned, and now
deprived of sharing in the most glorious affair that happened in the Upper
Province. Capt. Kii-^'Y was p.irticularly and deservedly mentioned in the
pablio despatches. Colonel Murray, however, entitled me and my troop to
a share of the prize money of the place, for our services."
After a sharp contest, Buffalo was captured and bumed, in retaliation
for Niagara ; and our subject, though still confined to the house, had the
pleasure of hearing that for the present the country was rid of all its ene
mies. General Drummond left for Kingston, with the satisfaction of
knowing that things were more prosperous than when he assumed command.
Lieut. Ingersoll and Coronet McKenny were sent to Quebec with then-
prisoners. Col. Chapin and Capt. Leonard, who commanded Fort Ni-agaiu.
And thus terminated the Campaign of 1813, which from every point of
view reflects no discredit upon our arms.
Service in the Campaign of 1814.
When Mr. Menitt recovered, the army was in winter quarters, and
everything was quiet along the frontier. Repairing to Queenston, where
his troops were quartered, he found that they had been totally neglected.
And there was no immediate occasion for their services, he obtained leave to
change their quarters to the " Twelve," so that he could be as near as possible
to his command. He soon got everything in good order, recruited more men
and found horses, so that when Ingersoll and McKenny retumed from Que
bec, at the end of February,' they found a better state of affairs, and a conff-
dence, which had not been felt hitherto existing amongst the army and people.
He was then ordered to Fort George, and got stables up and the men
comfortably quartered. On the 1st of June he sent McKenny to Long Point
andBurmgton to relieve Lieut. Ingersoll, whom he sent up six weeks
previously, with 16 men, to to patrol this section of the country, as an
attack was expected at that place, which might poissbly enable the enen^
to penetrate as far as Burlington.

33
On the third day of July he arrived at that important period of life
when youth is supposed to have merged into full manhood ; and in honor of
Ms attaining majority, his parents at the homestead on the Twelve prepared
& grand dinner, to which a large number of friends were in-yited. At four
o'clock, when just sitting down to dine, a dragoon arrived in hot haste, -with
intelligence that the enemy had landed at Fort Erie. The anniversary, it is
needless to say, was celebrated without the ordinary after dinner
oratory, and in a few moments Mr. Menitt was quickly spurring on to
Fort George, where he found everything in activity, and all the troops which
could be spared rapidly fileing off on the road to Chippawa. He went in the
afternoon, with the intention of remaining, but was sent on to Col. Stewart
who commanded at Fort George, as it was expected that the enemy's fleet
would attack on the lake shore. During his absence an engagement took
place at Chippawa, in which although successful, the enemy, suffered more
than our people. The following remarks on this battle, from Mr. Merritt's
Journal ar© well worthy of notice : —
"It certainly is a very delicate thing to censure a commanding officer,
particularly one so popular and brave as General Riall, still, in this case, he
acted hastily, neither did he employ all the means in his power. He sent
• away the 1st Regiment of militia in the morning, who were the best flankers
in the country. The lOSrd Regiment were iayin,!;' at Burlington, 800
strong, which could have been down in two days. There were likewise all
the militia of the country, which, when assembled, would have ensured suc
cess. Had they attacked us in the entrenchment, they would have fought
to a great disadvantage. I came up in the evening after the action, with a
party of the trooj); every house was filled with the wounded; I stopped
at Street's, and spent a very unpleasant night; many of the officers were
lying wounded, groaning with pain. Such was the result of the battle of
Chippawa." On the 7th, preparations being made for a retreat to Fort George, Mr.
Merritt rode over to his father's, and had the most valuable things removed
to Burlington, as he belived that the country would be again exposed to the
enemy. On his return he met the Indians who had decamped from the
army, and were robbing the farm-yards and country stores. Mr. Merritt
was sent next moming from Fort George to the "Twelve," -with 15 of his
troop to watch the movements of the enemy — it not being certain at this
time whether their object was Burlington or Fort George. In either case
Mr. Merritt was to retire on Burlington, after communicating with Fort
George. His father sent away all the stock from the farm , and went to Bur
lington, but his mother could not be persuaded to leave the old house, as
by this time she got to be well used to invasions.
Mr. Merritt says, "The country was never more destitute than at this
" time, as all the militia had retired to Burlington, taking their stock with
" them, and forced to leave their families totally unprotected."

34
Mr. Merritt was sent to Biirlington, to order down Colonel Scott, who.
had assembled all the militia of the country, Indians, &o. He returned the
next morning after a hard and rapid ride, having accomplished the journey
of nearly 100 hundred miles in nine and one half hours.
The presence of the invading army was more severely felt by the people,
on this occasion than on the previous ones, as they seem to have adopted a
policy of intimidation towards the inhabitants, which fir,st was shown by
their refusal to give the bodies of the militiamen who were killed at Chip
pawa, to their friends for decent burial : and also by the systematic manner
in which they plundered the people, even the females, of everything movable.
Extract from Mr. Merritt's Journal : —
"The enemy's marauding party had not reached the Twelve yet, for
hearing a party was there, they probably imagined it would be of some force,
so far in advance of Burlington. P^i-t of the Glengarrj's arrived under
Captain FitzGibbon, formerly ofthe 49th, who had so gallantly distinguished
himself heretofore at Beaver Dams. On the 15th the 1st Regiment of
militia were stationed at the Ten Mile Creek, Brown's ; the 4th Regimeat
9t Hutt's; two others at the Beaver Dams. The militia were daily skir
mishing and driving in States' parties, who were plundering every house
they could get at ; they even plundered women of everything they bad.
The two last waggons were taken by young Ball, with a party who were
carrying off soft soap, after clearing the house of everything. The be
wildered families were obliged to leave their homes and place themselves
under the protection of the army."
As on previous occasions, Mr. Merritt had his full share of outpost dutj-
varied by an occasional skirmish -with the enemy. About 30 of the most
robust and determined men in the militia, mostly officei'S, of whom our sub
ject was one, volunteered as a corps of observation, under command of Capt,
FitzGibbon. Part of their amusement was to hang on the skirts of tbe
enemy, and annoy them by every possible means. They spent a week at
this exciting work, and usually had five or six skirmishes daily, but -with.
out any results worth mentioning, until their party, from various causes,
were reduced to 11, when they abandoned this mode of warfare for the more
regular duties of their corps. Mr. M. also joined a similar party under
Col. Drummond, of the 104th Regiment, with similar results. When, re.
ceiving intelligence of the enemy moving from Queenston, they prepared for
sterner work, as subsequent events extracted from Mr. M.'s journal will ex- I
plain : —
" The army was put in motion at 8 o'clock, and I arrived -with part of
my troop at Luudy's Lane, at 3 o'clock, of July 25th, 1814. Col. Pierson
with the Light Brigade arriving shortly after. We proceeded on as far as
Bridgewatev. A few dragoons were sent on to the Falls to reconnoitre the
camp at Chippawa. At 8 o'clock we fell back on Limday's Lane, leaving
an advanced picket at Mrs. Wilson's : but at 5 o'clock the enemy was oh-
served advancing. Shortly after, they drove in our advance pickets. The
mlitia and Light Brigaie were ordered to retreat, as the main army -were

35
several miles in the rear of Queenston and St. Davids. General Drummond
arriving, ordered them back, and made disposition for giving battle ; the
Glengarrys and incorporated militia, TOO strong, received the first fire in
the woods, two hundred yards in advance : two six pounders were placed
near the Church, on an eminence. The 8th Regiment, 500 strong, with a
detatchment of the 1st Royal Scots, that moment arrived, and were placed
in the rear of the guns ; my men on the right, with orders to join the 19th
on the left, in Queenston Road. The enemy, on approacliing -the field, filed
off to the right and left, exposed to the tire of the two field pieces, which
did little execution. Amidst a galling fii-e from the Glengarrys and militia,
the enemy advanced up to the guns almost unperceived, when a most gallant
resistance was made by our men. The artillery men were exposed to both
our fire and that of the enemy ; at length, they were under the necessity of
leaving their guns, which for a jnoment were in possession of the enemy.
The dragoons on the left, under Major Lisle, retreated as far as Muddy Run,
one and a half miles. The enemy's right outflanked us ; and a company,
shortly followed by a regiment, got possession of the road between the dra
goons and the line in front. Major General Riall receiving a severe wound
in the shoulder, was taken prisoner, returning by the road with Captain
Loring, A.D.C., to General Drummond, and many othei- officers. At this
time it was getting d'ark, so that it was impossible to discover friends from
enemies at twenty yards distance. The first regiment of militia, under
Major Robinson, coming up at this moment, made a disposition of charging,
in hopes of retaking Major General Riall, I was sent to communicate his
intention to the troops on the hill to our right. On my return to join my
troop, I went rather too much to the right, falling in with the enemy's 28th
regiment. It was impossible to make an escape, as I was completely sur
rounded. A few moments after, firing commenced from our men on the
hill. Captain Clarke was taken prisoner nearly at the same time. I was
taken prisoner by six fellows who were skulking from the fire which then
raged with great fury. This put an end to my expeditions and observations
of what WR,s proceeding in our military arrangements. My favourite horse,
Hyder Ally, was also taken. On passing Forsyth's, on my way to cap
tivity, I heard the fire renewed, as the 10th had just arrived, who drove the
enemy completely off the field, leaving us victors. Troops never could have
behaved -with greater coolness and bravery than ours. They fought against
five times their numbers ; the greater part of the iiruiy was six miles in tho
rear when the action commenced. We were s,*'ut that night to .S'jhlosser, iia
prisoner.'!, 14 in number ; Major General Riall, wounded. Caj-taiu Loring,
McLean, Nellis, Gore, Washbourne; Lieuts. Ynule, Fraizer, Robins, V/arffe;
Quarter Masters Linn and Cairns, EnSgn Kilboruo and Captain W. H.
^lerritt of the di-agoons. AVe were joined in the morning by Captain
Brown, Lieut. Cline, and Lament, Ensign Lover and Montgomery, who
were taken in the last part of the action — making in all, 19 ollicers and IIG
privates taken prisoners."
" The greater part of the offioors were taken by mistaking the enemy
for friends, in consequenee of the darkness of the night. We were kept out
all night around a fire ; tents could not be provided until next morning. Wo
were all much fatigued ; many had been for several nights ^^-ithout sleep.
We were marched under a strong escort to Buffalo, 24 miles, so that on our
arrival we were completely worn out. The officer who had charge of us, I

cannot speak much in favor of. 'SVo were sent to Pomeroy's Inn, where wo
proou!-ed a good supjj3r, and took a very comfortable nap on the tables."
" The following day they wero paroled for Greenbush, in the interior of
Massachusetts, and their guard dismis«-,ed. It is not deemed necessary to
give the particulars of the manner in which our subject passed his time
-jvhilst a prisoner of war, altbongii his v,rell-kept journal is both interesting
«ind amusing on that point, as the fev/ extracts here given will shew : —
"August 28tli. Hfiavy rain all fl-,ty ; spent the afternoon with Captain
Dawson ; party in the evening ; heai'd many anecdotes, particularly of Mrs, '
2-Torton's affi-iirs. Creek rose very high, carried off the cotton manufactory
at Adamstown." " 29th. Took a long riile in the morning with Mr. Bowe of the Navy;
visited Mr. Mills, the waggon -maker ; cricket in the afternoon ; received an
answer to the latter I wrote to Major ilcl-ville, on the 27th. Mr. Foster
broug'ut a report from Pittsfiakl of Lord Hill having taken possession of
Vrashington ; to celebrate the event, we had a dinner party which lasted
till 12 o'clock."
" Sept. 9th, Took a long lide ; playei billiards, and strolled about, read,
4\nd at last drowned my cares in the a,;-uis of Morpheus, &c., &,c."
" 23rd. Vv''ot, cold, rainy weather ; went to church. Elders Ler-
law .and Roach held forth to a large congi-egation ; a number of beautiful
:giiis there. This dsj two months I had the misfortune to be made prisoner,
Ac, &c."
As the foregoing is a sample, shewing how time was passed by all the
officers, we will conclude this chapter by stating that Mr. Merritt was de
tained a prisoner of war for sibout eight months, when the prisoners got
their freedom by the closing of the war, and he reached home about the end
of March, 1815.
We cannot close this brief sketch of the war of 1812 without noticing
the important results which often spring from such causes, so that a race of
people v.dio in a measure felt only a tcmporai-y estrangement, should have
by this act completed in every respect a separation which has now led to the
establishment of distinct forms of government tantamount to nationality;
sprung from a common stock, and speaking the same language, yet
having laws and traditions as wide apart as the old countries of Europe,
Whatever might have been the feelings of the old U. E. Tories in Canada
to their Whig opponents on the other side of the line, the attempt of the
latter, in the v.'ar of 1812, to complete the conquest of the Northern part of
the continent, and absorb their old opponents, aro-ased a spirit of successful >•
opposition that led to a defining of boundaries, which in a short time culminar .
ted in tha laying of the foundation for a new nation, which under proper
guidance will eventually it is hoped take no unimportant position amongst
the nations of th» earth, and conclusively prove that however weak or un
prepared for a struggle a country may be, the designs of an all-dispensing
Providence cannot be set aside, and that the Great Disposer of men and
things may place a limit to the ideas and actions of the most aggressive.

37 »
The reader who has patiently followed the course of this narrative, can
.hardly fail to have remarked the extraordinary activity and the ener.oetic
disposition which characterized our subject in evefything which lie attempt
ed to accomplish. Few men seem to have appreciated ihe important value
of time more than he did; hence, in a few days after the proclamation of
peace, and his consequent liberation, we find him at the home of his affian-
cied Miss Catharine Prendergast, in MayviUe, N. Y, State.
The marriage took place on the 13th of March, 1815. So we may
fairly state that he, at least, lost no time in exchanging the bonds of war for
those of matrimony. The aimable young lady whom for the future becomes
the sharer alike of his joys and troubles, was the daughter of Doctor
Prendei-gast of MayviUe, N. Y., a gentleman of considerable means, an
influential member of the N. Y. Legislature, and an individual highly
esteemed by all who knew him. His father was a native of Waterford,
Ireland, and a professional ship-builder. He caino to St. Johns, Newfound
land, in the early part of the last century, and carried on business there for
a time ; from thence he moved to New York, and married Mahitable V/ing,
daughter of Jedediah Wing, of Duchess County, where the Doctor was bom
in 1764. In 1766 he was charged -with being implicated in some local re
bellion, and judged by the severe code of those days, he was sentenced to
death, but was fully reprieved by his gracious Majesty, George the Third.
He then moved to Pittstown, near Bennington ; from hei-e a number of people
started to the South- West, with the intention of colonizing Tennesee.
Amongst them was the Doctor, and others of his family. The climate of the
South did not agree with their health, so he returned in the fall of 1805.
and decided on settling in Canada. In descending tli'5 mountain near De-
Cews, the light carriage used by the old peofile bi-oke dov.'n, which
caused them to locate in the vicinity, till near the breaking out of the war of
1812, when they returned to the States, and resided at Zvlayvillo, It was
during their stay in Canada that Mr. Merritt first b-^.iaiae a';;|uaintO'l y.'itit
the lady whom we have now introduced as his wife. After si)ending part
ofthe honeymoon at tha home of his bride, they b:ide adie-.i to their affec
tionate parents, and came on to their future residence on the " Twelve.''
The journey was made on horseback, it being the most convenient mode of
travelling in those days. They arrived at Buffalo, which v.-as being rebuilt,
and crossino- the river at Black RoCk, were soon at the I.cnie of their old
friends, where, it is needless to sa,y, they received a, licarty wolcoir.e. In a
few months afterwards, Mr. Merritt having occasion to visit head quarters
at Quebec, in reference to some unsettled military matt'n-.';, left his -ivife at
her father's in MayviUe, and returning to Niagara, li'3 sailed from that
place, and arrived at the ancient capital on the 6th of July, Having finished
his business, he left Quebec on the 14th of the same month, in a str->amboat
crowded with passengers, aii.ongst whom was his old friend Col. Clarke.

38
This was about the time when steam navigation was introduced upon our
waters. A reference to his journal describes the trip to Montreal : —
" Stoppad to wood up at Three Rivers. Vv"e unfortunately grounded
at rj.jrel. This boat makes the round trip, between Quebec and Montreal
in a week. There is another boat on the line, making two passages a week.
Wo oould not get off from Sorel, by any exertion, until the other boat came
along. We had the utmost difficulty in stemming the current, owing to
this, although due in the evening, we had to remain ou board all night."
The rates of travelling in those days must have kept many would-be
pleasure-seekers and tourists at home, as the journal gives the following ex-
pensas of the trip. " Niagara to Montreal, £5. 2. 6, N. Y. C'y ; Montreal
"(to Q-aebec, by steam boat,) £3. 0. 0. Quebec to Montreal, £3. 10. and ex-
" pauses, 12s. 6d. Steamboat on Lake Champlain to Burlington, Vermont,
" £1, 0, 0. From Albany to New York, in a steamboat bearing the classic
"name of ' The Car of Neptune J ,$7 00."
In Montreal Mr. M. made a number of purchases to be sent up by the
first " brigade of boats," under the charge of Mr. Nelles. Lea-ving Montreal,
he crossed the river to Longeuil, and from thence, via stage and boat to
Albany, where he remained a short time, and than proceeded to New York
by steamboat, the passage occupying 14 hours. In New York he learned
that his uncle Nehemiah from New Brunswick had been there but a fort
night previously. He also purchased goods to the amount of ^1,700, which .
he forwarded on to Canada ; and having obtained an agency to transact
some business there, he took his departure, and arrived in Buffalo in about
eight days, having traveled most of the j ourney by stage. Sending his trunk
on to Niagara in charge of Mr. Stocking, he proceeded on horseback to the
residence of his father-in-law at Chatauque, where his wife was then stopping.
He remained a fortnight at this delightful spot, and left for Niagara, where
he found his goods had anived safe from New York. The late war having
completely cleared off nearly all the merchandise in the country, Mr.
Merritt judged that a first rate opportunity presented itself for a merchant
to commence business. He accordingly purchased 25 acres of land at
Shipman's Corners," for which he paid ,Sl)25, and forthwith commenced to
build a large house, part of which he intended for a dwelling, and the re
mainder for a store ; and it being situated on the main road from Niagara,
was ill a good location, and became a pleasing addition to the rising settle
ment. Afterwards it was converted into an hotel, known as the
" St. Catharines House,'' and was eventually bumed down.
Du]-ing the time his building was going on he opened part of his goods
at Niagara, and some at Queenston, that being the principal rendezvous for
fur and oth-r traders. He also took some to the naval station on the Grand
River. At all of those places he found a ready sale for his stock, and soon
created a larga and profitable business.

From Queenston ha opened a correspondence with Messrs. Townsend k,
Co., of Oswego, in reference to the price of patent salt, delivered at Queens
ton, From Niagara he wrote to Messrs. Van Winkle & Co., telling them
that he had opened the books which he purchased from them, for which ha
hoped to have a ready sale, so that in the fall he might give them 'another
order. There were no books for sale in the country then ; so that to Mr.
Menitt belongs the credit of being the .pioneer dissemnator of knowledge —
in fact the first book-seller in this part of the Province. He also opened a
land agency, which was very much needed at that time.
When in New York' he made the acquaintance of Mr. Bruce, a gi-and-
son to David Ramsay, who had been left by will 1,400 acres of land, one
lot of which was located fo^ar miles from York, now Toronto ; in these
transactions there was a large correspondence.
There being no post-office at Queenston, communication with the States
was very expensive. Mr. Merritt has left a memorandum which shews the
-expense incurred in forwarding- a letter to his correspondent in New York,
viz : — " Ferry, and sundry other expenses which had to be borne before I
¦could mail my letter, four dollars." Canadian postage was also expensive,
-and conveyance slow. And as to communication with England, letters
could only be interchanged once or twice a year.
In tho fall of the year he went to MayviUe, and returned with Mrs.
Merritt to Niagara, where they resided with his father, the Sheriff, who
now lived there, as the old homestead on the " Twelve,'' having been very
much used during the war, needed repairs.
In February, 1816, he proceeded to York, where ha had business with
the authorities, relative to his claims ; and having satisfactorily settled with
them, returned home, where he had some conversation with Mr. Thomas
Adams, relative to a mill-site on his property.
Mr. Adams built the first tavern, in 1797, which he afterwards sold to
Mr. Butler, and he to Paul Shipman, hence the early name of the settle
ment, " Shipman's Oorner's," and St. Paul street now.
The property purchased by Mr. Adams was part of the Hamilton estate,
which was ultimately sold to different individuals. On the mill-site which
Mr. M erritt was in treaty for, stood a small saw-mill, almost worn out,
being erected years ago by Mr. Thomas Merritt, Thomas Adams and Caleb
Mulkens. In about a month the bargain was concluded, and Mr. Merritt
agreed to pay off the incumbrance to the Hamilton estate, and $1,000 to the
then proprietors. This purchase consisted of the mill privilege and about
50 acres of land. The document relating to the purchase is dated March
27, 181G. The builder with whom ha contracted to erect his store failed be
fore finishing the job ; and it was ultimately completed by Mr. Rufus Wright.
Before the house was ready, Mrs. Merritt again visited her family in
MayviUe, accompanied by her husband, who afterwards retumed to super-

40
intend his business. The saw-mUl he repaired in such a manner as to soon
have it in good running order ; and with the lumber which he cut he re
built the grist mill. This fully occupied his time until the fall, when his^.
house was in readiness to receive Mrs. Menitt, who returned from MayviUe,,
escorted by her father, Dr. Prendergast.
With the exception of the actual necessaries of life, there is no article
more indispensable to mankind than salt. It has been jocularly remarked,
that "were it not for salt, pork and flour, the forests of America would still he-
standing, and the land unsettled." How true the foregoing may be, we will
not say ; but it can hardly be denied that salt is a Necessary particularly
indispensable to the settlers in a new country, aud a steady supply of this-
commodity is always a source of anxiety to agriculturalists and others at a
distance from the sea-board. In early days the inhabitants of this district
had to import their salt from the east, which, owing to the imperfect mode-
of transportation, rendered that article a costly commodity. It is kno-wn
that wild animals will travel vast tracts of country in search of this reUsh,
and the Indians always found their best deer and other animals in the
vicinity of those briny rills, familiarly known as " salt licks," which are
occasionally to be found in different parts of the country.
In 1793, Governor Simcoe felt the want of having a home supply so
much that he established works on a small scale at one of those licks, in
l^art of the District now known as the Township of Louth.
As the works at Onondaga increased, salt became comparatively cheap,,
and these works were abandoned. But during the war of 1812 the scarcity
^v•ds so great that each one was allowed to boil his own salt at the Govern
ment works. It was worth from $10 to $15 per bushel, and very scarce
at these enormous prices. One of these salt springs were on Mr. Merritt's
property, on the Twelve. Amongst his other undertakings he had the
spring cleaned up and properly curbed; and in August, 1816, he com
menced to manufacture salt by simply boiling the water from the natural
spring. Afterwards he increased the works, as the following extract from
a letter written to Mrs. Merritt in May ville will shew : — " The lower spring
" I have taken in hand, and stoi^pad out the fresh water entirely ; and -will
" commence drilling through the rock this week."
In the same letter he mentions the withdrawal of his stock from the
Grand Eiver, the naval establishment at that place being about to be re
moved. Tha salt works soon became in a flourishing state. We find the follow
ing entry in his journal :— " Loaded 50 barrels of salt on schooner LidusPni,
for Port Hope," &c.
_ Mr. Merritt also built a pot-ashery. So that at this period it must be-
evident to the reader that his time was fully occupied with trade and im
provements.

41
After the war of 1812, several of the officers who had been engaged
therein settled around this place. Charles Ingersoll, one of a family of
early settlers who held a large tract of land in Oxford, took a gi-eat fancy to
the neighbourhood of the " Twelve," where he built a house, and soon after
wards entered into partnership with Mr. Merritt — to whose second sister,
Maria, he was married on the 5th of September, 1816.
Mr. Merritt now removed the remainder of his stocks from the stores
at Niagara aud Queenston, and they canied on an extensive business in the
house Mr. Ingersoll built. Mr. M. in the meantime converting his own
building into a dwelling-house. Mr. M. had good business connexions in
Montreal — with Girard, Gillespie & Co., and Forsyth, Richardson & Co. —
from whom they received large supplies of goods. Their business was car
ried on for three years ; but from over-trading and bad debts it was wound
up at the end of 1819, and Mr. Ingersoll returned to Oxford. In process
of time the deficiency was all paid ; the merchants with whom they dealt
testifying to the honourable characters of Messrs. Merritt & Ingersoll.
Mr. Merritt also established a distillery, which he carried on upon a
small scale, it being impossible with a limited capital to do an extensive
business — the proceeds going to satisfy for the goods of the firm.
In the autumn of this year Mrs. Merritt was confined -with her first
born, which they named Thomas, after his grandfather.
1817. TMs year was noticeable for the means taken to divert the tide
of emigration moving from the British islands to the United States, towards
Canada. The prospect of a permanent peace with the States, and the fact
of the British Government offering free passages, and a grant of land, induced
many to leave the country of their birth, and try for their fortunes in the
" forests of Canada," as this country was then considered. Among these
was tha famous Robert Gourlay, whose advent into the colony was trumpeted
by a grand scheme of peopleing the waste lands by his tenantry and families
in Scotland. The event was celebrated by demonstrations ofthe inhabitants.
At oue of these, (a ball held at Shipman's,) where he was, he was partner
to Mrs. Merritt at the first set of country dances.
The deferred payment of war losses, by harrowing the minds of the
population, affoi-ded a mo.st favouring condition for operations. He
soon set to work to sow the seeds of enquiry, by calling public meet
ings to brood over imaginary wrongs. Business was neglected to listen
to his speeches. Many happy homes were rendered miserable by the intro
duction of politics, which caused neglect and misfortune to ensue to those
who might have been better occupied in attending to their farms and stock,
mstead of endeavouring to realize visionary schemes which time and perse
verance in their individual pursuits alone could accomplish. No doubt there
were many things remiss in the colony, among them the delay in settling war
losses, which men hardly yet free from the ravages of war, would feel

42
keenly ; but still, we question if rampant agitation by any number of strug
gling setthers, who invariably have theii- hands full at home, could procure
a remedy, and least of all for an individual whose business was land agant,
and who expected to d)-aw large tracts, when their war losses were to be made
out of lands. Hapjiily there was visdom enough in the country to see
through the too-advanced schemes of Mr. Giourlay, and put a check to them
by sending him out of the country. As a .statistitian, he has done a service
by giving us a true estimate of tiiC country at the time.
During the wet season, the new saw mill cut a large quantity of lumber,
part of vidiioh Mr. Merritt, on the approach of settled weather, conveyed by
raft to Niagara, also sending flour and ashes by schooner to Kingston.
To those intimate with him in after life, some of the incidents that oc
cured in youth would appear strange and uncharacteristic ; but the change
was produced by a mature calculation. One of these incidents the author
has often heard him relate, to point tha moral of forbearance and the folly
of contesting by force with the unreasonable and surly : —
His raft of staves was in jeoparday dui-ing a storm ; and a lumbei-man
not helping as ordered, angred him so, that he raised a handspike towards
him, which, dodging, the man closed ; and ware it not for one of the other
hands knocking down his assailant, Mr. Menitt would probably have got
the worst of it.
In the summer of 1818 he went to Montreal on general business, but
owing to the approaching financial crisis referred to, cash was very scarce,
so that ha got a low price for his commodities, and tlio business prospects
appeared bad, as this country was beginning to feel the effects of the great
monetary crisis which was about troubling England.
This year Mr. Merritt deidded upon putting to use an idea which he
quietly conceived years before, but ahvavs kept prominent in his active
brain, and which ultimately resulted in one of the most gigantic .and im
portant public works on this continent. A scarcity of water for his mill
supply occurf^d, and was alw.ays uncertain in -vavni veather : eo he believed
a remedy for this could be found by having a communication with the
Chippawa River. Calmly we-lgliing the stupendious results which might
yet accrue from the act, he determined to make a rougli survey ofthe ground.
There beicg no regular levelling instiunent at hand, lie bori-ov.-6d a water
level from Mr. Becket, who keot a small mill at the " Short Hills.'' With
this instrument, and accompanied by Islr. Keefei', De Cew, and other
neighbours, they sta-.-fced on their tour of surveying. They commenced
at the south branch of the Twelve Mile Creek, uosv Alluuhnr.jii^ which is
about 3-30 feet above its exit into Lake Ontario — fi-om thence they ran their
line for a distance of two miles, due south, to the Chippawa; and upon
reckoning up the result of their survey, they found that the dividing ridfe
or height of land was about thirty feet above the levels. This was the

43
first survey of the Vv^elland Canal made, and of the re.sults which have
sinc^ transpired, few are unacquainted. It is, however, proper to state that
owing to the imperfect instruments v.itli v.liich they conducted the survey,
they made a mi.'-itake of 30 feet ; the aot-aal height being afterwards proved
to be 60,
In this simple and apparently unprofitable act, wa have the best illustra
tion possible of the predominant sentiment of Mr. Merritt's mind, that great
results may flow from the most trivial aflairs. This survey, although very
defective, was sufficient to move the mouodain ; as it drew attention to the
question, and set people to consider and talk over the matter, more especially
as Mr. Merritt had expressed his firm conviction that the connection between
the lakes could ba carried out by means of a canal. Tha long, jient-up,
and treasured idea now burst forth, lending vigour and will towards its ac
complishment. Mr. Merritt drew up a maniorial to the Legislature, to which
the names of all the influential settlers were attached, asking for an appro
priation to be made for a correct survey. This honourable body then con
sisted of twenty members, and on the question ofthe memorialists being put,
thirteen of them voted that the sum of £2,000 ^e given for a survey of the
route, as well as that of the St. Lawrence. So it will be seen that the simple
act of a few early settlers laid the foundations for the greatest water ways
in the world.
In interesting the Legislature, Mr. Merritt gained a grand point, and
after his departure, he left the plan and papers with Col. Burwell, who took
great intere,st in the idea. Sir Peregrine Maitland was then administrator
of the Government, and having fixed his residence at Stamford, not far
from the projected route, was a firm friend and supporter of the canal.
For the present Mr. Merritt was, however, doomed to disappointment, as the
Government Engineer, Mr. Chewitt, surveyed a route for a canal 50 miles
long, in a different part ofthe country, by commencing at the Grand River,
and passing through Caiibro', Caistor, Gainsboro', and Clinton, as a summit;
thence descending towards the Twenty Mile Creek, and proceeding westerly,
paralell with Lake Ontario, and terminating in Burlington Bay. The
whole affair was as absurd as it was expensive, and happily bore no com
parison with Mr. Merritt's route, which was only 28 miles long. Nothing
further was done by the Government in 1818, as tha available funds were
wasted upon Chewitt's impracticable survey ; but Mr. Merritt managed to
obtain data, which enabled him to judge of the ])robable cost of his route.
So the subject was postponed in consequence of other troubles in his private
affairs. On the 23rd of July, in this year, the first steamboat was put upon
Lake Erie, — previous to this, tha produce of the west made its way to N.
Y. State as best it could in sailing vessels. This part of Canada, although
rising rapidly, was yet in its infancy, and the time had not arrived to com-

44
pete for the western carrying trade. Such was the report of the com
missioners who recommended the subject to be brought before the Home
Government, " tru.sting tnat they might feel disposed to open the resources
of the country."
Our subject was indefatigable and perseverving, but there is a limit to
all things : and by having too much business on hand, the firm of Merritt &
Ingersoll bsoame temporary insolvent, and was terminated by Mr. Ingersoll
going out, as heretofore stated.
Misfortunes rarely come singly, as their favourite child Thomas, their
first-bom, v,'as scalded to death in the beginning of the year, and their little
daughter was also laid in the grave ere the season ended, so that the almost
heart-broken parents had their share of the bitter cup, but were calm and
resigned, and meekly bowed to the ruling of an all-wise Providence, although
at the time it was a sore trial, coupled as it was with tha derangements of
their mercantile affairs, and tho depreciation of business in general.
At this time he had a large stock of lumbar on ha,nd, but could obtain
no money for it. In business, they had trusted the farmers largely, but
could get no return from them till after the harvest, and even then produce
was so low as to be unprofitable ; wheat being only worth from 40 to 50 cts.
per bushel in tha Queenston market.
However, being a man of determination, he bore bravely up, and luckly
at this time his Uncle Nehemiah from St.Jolms, N.B., made his appearance
and liberally helped him, so that he was enabled to save his property, and
bring his affairs into a better state. He gave Ms mill as collateral to one
of his Montreal merchants, for money due. On the fourth of February,
1820, his father, Thomas Merritt, resigned the shrievalty of the district,
which office he honourably held 4'or 17 years. The position of Sheriff is
never a very desirable one, and in a country where but little money is stirring
and hard times seemed to be considered as a settled fact, the duties per
taining to the office, are, to a sensitive mind annoying ; and Mr. Merritt
being a humane man, ahvp.ys felt a delicacy in pushing defaulters, or in
enforcing the sentence of the coui't, where, from the state of society then
prevailing, each neighbour knew of the other's troubles. Complaints of
delay in forcing executions, reached head quarters, and then reverted back
on him as the cause — so that we are not surprised that the Sheriff, sooner,
than continue in office at this time, sought to be relieved of the duties thereof,
and felt pleased, after a respectable career, to retire into private life, still
retaining his appointment of Commissioner of Woods and Forests, and his
half pay which he received for considerable military service in " Simcoe's
Rangers," during the Revolutionary Y\'ar. He was considered by all who
knew Mm as an honourable, brave, and determined officer. , And having
always taken a deep interest in his son's prosperity, he now disposed of his
homestead, a fine property of 200 acres, for the sum of ¦?6,000, out of which

45
he liberally assisted our subject to cancel his obligations and renew his
former struggle. The purchaser, Mr. .Job Northrop, better known as the
"Commodore," was a great acquisition to the neighbourhood, and his settling
here was the prelude to others coming, so that in a short time a number of
respectable and wealthy settlers gathered in, who all lived on the most friendly
terms with each other. A Dr. Howison spent the winter of 1819-20 here,
and kept his office at Paul Shipman's Hotel. He appeared to have been a
man of means, and practised but little at his profession, spending most of
his time in visiting around the neighboui-hood, where his society was much
appreciated. On returning to England he published tha result of his ob
servations in a good-sized volume, for the information of those intending to
emigrate, the substance of v.-hicli was that the countrj' was unfit for a pro
fessional man of good education, who expected to make an income by tho
practice of his profession.
One little incident connected with Mr. Merritt's family, from -whom ho
received unbounded hospitality, he does not relate ; and as thf; doctor's book
is probably out of print and his visit forgotten by this time, we take the
liberty of referring to it. In April, an excursion to see a theatrical per
formance at Niagara, was improvised. The party consisted of iliss Merritt,
Miss Baker, and the doctor. The turn-out was a purely rural one. Dressed
in Spring attire, with white pants of unexceptional blaiiohetrie, he drove
up to Mr. Merritt's house. Tha vehicle consisted of a one-horse waggon,
imported from the Eastern States, and which had probably done good service,
for the Fraus and Myhneera in their first emigration from the Mohawk Valley
after the Revolution. Having but mie seat, a chair had to be put in for the
doctor, whose first essay showed that the safety of the ladies depended more
on the gentleness of the horse than the skill of the driver. Things went on
smoothly until their return, when an extra "rut" in the last mile of the swamp
caused a separation of the vehicle, leaving the driver and ladies in the road,
and considerably dimming the lustre of the doctor's .snowy unmentionables,
and detracting from his skill as a navigator. Fortunately no serious injury
happened to the party, who walked on to the " Ten," where all was adjusted,
and they arrived hotfie in safety, enjoying a hearty laugh at the doctor's
mishap, and added another item to the day's amusements.
On tha opening of navigation, Mr. Merritt shipped 300 barrels of flour
to George Davis, directing that the proceeds should be handed over to
Forsyth, Richardson, & Co., so that by steady perseverance, he ultimately
overcame all the difficulties. The greater part of this year he was engaged
in boring the middle salt spring, so as to establish his manufacture of that
article on a profitable basis. At last he succeeded, and having erected a
building, coppers for boiling the water were obtained, and a salt company
afterwards formed, so as to find more capital. Dr. Chase, lately arrived from
the States, took a prominent part in the concern, and being a good chemist.

-16
they soon ^ ere able to produce a better article, which, for a time returned, as
when first boiled, a fair profit; but eventually it had to be abandoned, as they
could not successfully compete v/ith the large manufactories of the United
States, who exported great quantities to Canada, and sold it very cheap.
' People at this period had no cause to grumble on account of taxation.
By tha Assessment Roll for the Township of Grantham, wherein " Shipman's
Corners '' was situated, 203 persons were assessed for property to the value
of £88. 1. 2., and for Member of Parliament, £7. 12. 5., making in all, in
currency, $382. 72, which is only §1 88 for each householder. So that
although produce was low in price, still people were thriving. Flour sent to
Montreal sold for $5 75, from which deduct $1 25 for expenses, would still
leave $4 50 for the market price at that time.
On the 1st of June in this year, another son was bom, and the grief
occasioned by the loss of the previous children was greatly lessened by the
presence of this one, whom they named Jedediah, after a kind-hearted
grandfather, Jedediah Prendergast.
The store, wl'iich was closed since Mr. .TngersoU's departure, was again
, opened, and Dr. Chase opened a drug store in connection with the business,
so that the concern had an addition to its now increasing trade, by supplying
drugs, as well as all other kinds of goods, which he got from Montreal. In
this fresh opening, his father-in-law, Dr. Prendergast, and Ms uncle Nehemiah
handsomely contributed to his assistance, and a want sadly felt since the
closing of the old business, was relieved, to the satisfaction ofthe neighbour
hood and the large farming community which were settled for many miles
around. The business prospered beyond his most sanguine expectations, and
the dark clouds which erstwhile threatened the prosperity of this most re
solute and energetic man, now seemed broken, and the thoughts of better
days dispelled the sorrows of the past, and instUled new life and energy into
his actions, so that hope, the fountain of all joys, was again firmly fixed in
his mind, and he became as it were a new man.
Crime was scarcely known in the district at tMs period. Rarely had the
magistrates to deal with anything more serious than petty assaults. The
people felt secure in their dwellings, and very fev/ took the precaution of
bolting or barring their doors at night. Harmony and good will seemed to
prevail all round, and this may be termed the " golden age " of the settle
ment. Places of worship were few, as tlje community were scattered over a
large space. Dr. Howison says that " Churches were a rarity in the land."
In the whole Niagara District he fouud but two belonging to the Establish
ment. Others were 50, 100, and 200 mUes apart. Mmiages were per
formed by the magistrates, as in the States. At "Shipman's," he says be
followed tha crowd into a church where the service was Presbyterian The
clergyman was dressed in a showy blue coat, white pantaloons, top boots and
spurs, ihare was no more decorum than if it were in an inn. Thev .had a

47
flute and flageolet for music accompanying a hymn, after which the company
dispersed. There were many Methodists who met two or three times a
week at each other's houses. There was a building erected near part of Mr.
Merritt's property for those who belonged to the Established Church, and a
parcel of ground adjoining for a burying place. For many years the Revd.
Mr. Addison of Niagara, who came from England in Govemor Simcoe's time
was the only clergyman of the Church of England in the Niagara District.
He did duty at Queenston, Shipman's, and the "Forty." The Revd
gentleman baptized Mr. Merritt and his elder children, and registered the
same in the registry which is still preserved in the Niagara Church. Still
it must not be assumed that a lack of religious feeling existed in tha com
munity, as in every house a Bible and other books of devotion could be found
which enabled the heads of families to assemble their households and join in
family worship. Each farm also possessed its own burying place, a number
of such being still used for that purpose at tha present time.
At this period he paid off the balance due on the rear halves of lots 1 6, 1 7,
18, and 19, parts of the Hamilton estate, which was covered with pine and
oak, situated near his own mill, the price being $14 per acre. Owing to the
increase of population in the neighbourhood, he tried to inJuoe his father-in-
law, the doctor, to come and settle in Canada again, but on account of that
gentleman having a large and lucrative business in Majrville, ha was com
pelled, we believe reluctantly, to decline the invitation. Shortly after
wards the doctor, being in New York, negotiated some bills for Mr. Merritt,
and with the proceeds, purchased for ready cash, a large quantity of goods,
suitable''to the Canadian market. The venture turned out a very successful
one as Mr. Merritt was soon afterwards enabled to purchase back his mill
property, which he previously had given as collateral to his Montreal
creditors. Whilst thus engaged, his uncle William and cousin Thomas had each
drawn lands, and were prospering favourably. At this time, in writing to
his uncle in New Brunswick he explains all his affairs, and looks hopefully
forward to coming prosperity. His amiable disposition and sterling integ
rity secured him a number of good friends and correspondents, who were
always anxious to serve him. Amongst them were Absalom Shade, of
Gait, an early and prosperous settler, from Bufiklo; Mr. Salsbury of same
place, John McCauley, George Pddout, and others. Georga Davis, of Mont
real, was his principal agent for disposing of his flour, ashes, &c.
Some trouble seems to have arisen at this time between him and his
old neighbour Mr. Adams, in consequence of the erection by the latter of
one of those fruitful sources of litigation known as mill-dams, in close prox
imity to Mr. M.'s mill, and on the same stream, thereby preventing the
waste water of Mr. M.'s mill from escaping. To make matters worse,
some of Mr. Adams' timber had been cut by Mr. Merritt's men, who over-

48
reached the boundary, so that it was a long time before the matter was
settled. Time eventually reconciled these old friends, and they remained
as such long afterv/ards.
Dr. William C. Chace proved a good business man ; and the salt
works being in operation, Mr. M. w)?ote to his friend Mr. W. Kerr,
of Wellinoton Souare, who had married into the Brant family, and was a
member of Parliament, relative to the bounty which was understood to be
offered for the successful production of salt. Receiving a favourable answer,
he proceeded to York, in February, 1821, the house being then in session.
He encountered a fearful snow storm on the journey, and on his anival
presented his memorial through Mr, Kerr ; but owing to a debate then going
on upon the marriage act, it was decided to postpone matters for the
present, Durin.0- his stay in York a petition was presented to the Home Govern
ment asking for a half pay grant to tha officers of the incorporated militia
who had distinguished themselves during the war of 1812, he with others,
put in their claims — as the general opinion seemed to ba that the request
was only a matter of justice to those who had risked everything in a quan-el
which in reality they were not interested in. The memorial was duly for
warded to the Colonial Secretary, and that was the last ever heard of it ; as
the gentlemen in Downing street thought that as the British Government
had, after tha Revolution, given liberal grants of lands to the U. E. Loyal
ists, it was the duty of their descendants to defend the same ; although it
might with truth be said that instead of the lands enriching the U. E. Loy
alists, the case was reversed, as had it not been for their sterling devotion
to the Crown, during the first period, Britain would have had very little
lands on this continent to give away; and their descendants, the militia of
Canada, certainly lent a v,rilling hand towards preserving what they did get,
as well as these vast tracts of country which eventually enriched English
corporations, as in the case of the Canada, the Hudson Bay and other Com
panies. Whilst in Toronto, he was cordially received and kindly entertained by
Sir Peregrine Maitland and his aimable lady, who was a daughter of the
Duke of Richmond, and much esteemed for her many fine qualities.
About this time we find that a new set of names are beginning to be
used in reference to the different localities. Thus we have " SMpman's,"
"Tbe Corners," or the "Twelve," which all alluded to the same place, now
changed into " Saint Catharines" — done, we have every reason to believe,
by Mr. Merritt, out of compliment to his wife, as his correspondence to her
at MayvUle, N, Y. was usually dated as such. Other places in the district
follo\yed the example,and the "Ten," "Twelve," "Twenty," "Thii-tv," "Forty,"
&c. — places which received their names from a supposed distance from the
Niagara River— now became Homer, St. Catharines, Jordan, &o.

49
Still, to be historically accurate, the name "St. Catharines" preceded-
all of these, having been named on its first survey in 1809, after Mrs.
Catharine Hamilton, the worthy consort of Robert Hamilton, lately
deceased. Yet, the name was rarely or ever used until Mr. Merritt entered
into business extensively ; as in a letter dated, " St. Catharines, May 24th,
1816," he writes: — "The -village will do credit to its favourite saint whose
name it bears. The mills must do credit to its saint who is still on earth.'
We think his first business letter, dated St. Catharines, was after this time.
1822. After the usutl Christmas festivities, Mrs. Merritt, with her
child, paid their winter's visit to MayviUe — being driven there by Banks,
the hired man, who claimed to be a son of Sir Joshua's. Soon afterwards,
Mr. Menitt joined her, and after a month's stay, they returned, passing the
Canadian boundary on the ice, over the lake. No sooner had he arrived
home, than he found it necessary to retrace his steps, as his father had be
come partly involved by the failure of the " Niagara Spectator," a paper
published there since 1817, and predecessor of " The Gleaner," edited
by Mr. Amos McKenny. The type and other plant were purchased from
Mr. Salsbury of Buffalo, to which place our subject had to go, in reference
to a settlement of the affairs, and afterwards to York, on the same business,
returning about the 17th of March, having satisfactorily settled the trouble.
He did not make his usual journey to Montreal this season, but his
partner. Dr. Chase, went, and succeeded very well in his purchases, also
shewing his general knowledge of goods suited to the market.
Another new resident, and very desirable acquisition to the rising
settlement, now arrived in the person of Doctor Beadle, a gentleman of
very pleasing manners, who was much respected by the people.
Crime, though of rare occurence, happened sometimes. Mr. Merritt
mentions of having to send a negro to jail for stealing a quantity of his salt.
Negro slavery had been long abolished in Canada : yet, in the State of
New York slaves were still kept and sold — as, a letter written at this
time by Mrs. Merritt to her mother in MayviUe, contains the foUo-wing
allusion to what has since been termed the " peculiar institution:" "12th April, 1822.
" You don't say whether you intend bringing Nan, (a favourite slave.)
I would be loth to sell her, without it is her choice. Let her know every
circumstance that -will attend her on coming here, <fec.''
On the 5th of July, 1822, their second son, William Hamilton, was
born, and after all the family having the usual autumnal fevers, then so pre
valent in these parts, Mrs. Merritt and the children returned to Chatauque,
being escorted there by Mr. John Chase, a young lawyer, and a brother of
the Doctor's. They reached there on the 22nd of October. This was »
protracted visit, and was the occasion of many letters from Mr. Merritt,

50
which gives us an insight into his ideas and plans at this interesting period,
when the canal subject had again engaged his attention.
The autumn of the year had been unusually boisterous, a succession of
heavy storms blowing for nearly three weeks, from the south west. Some
vessels were lost on the lakes ; and he was in a fever of anxiety, waiting the
amval of their goods, to the value of $4,000. Fortunately, the vessel
weathered the storm, and arrived, though in a battered condition. This
was a great relief not only to hinji, but to tne whole settlement — as the
loss of a general cargo in these days was a very serious matter to the com
munity. The Christmas time was kept in grand old style, being a continual
round of festi-vities ; balls, parties, sleigh rides, social visiting, turkey shooting,
&.C. In fact it seemed as if the ancient days of the Yule- and the Holly were
revived in the western woods — as almost every settler kept open house,
with a warm welcome to all comers, and a kindly thought towards his
poorer neighboui'. A grand dinner was given by Commodore Northrop, to
wMch all friends were invited. Harmony and good -will prevailed through
out. The sick, the poor, and unfortunate were looked after, as were all
else who could plead distress. The little Church was adomed, ha-ving re
ceived a present from the Bishop towards its accomplishment.
Business was fair, although money was very scarce, and barter the
accepted medium of commerce, A gi-eat quantity of pork changed hands in
this way. Wheat was only worth fifty cents in specie, so that a good profit
was made on flour, which was chiefly exported to the lower provinces, in
1 822, New Bruns-wick alone taking 15,000 banels. A considerable amount
of wheat was purchased by buyers from the States, which assisted to supply
the much-needed circulating medium. The sleighing was good, and a large
amount of out-door woik done.
On a Sunday moming, just at the close of the winter, the Little Church
was almost burned down, having caught on tLvr- a short time before tbe
service commenced. By great exertions, the small congregation, who were
just gathering, managed to save it, which was fortunate, as it answered the
purpose until a new one was built.
At this time, Mr. Merritt presented the Methodists -with a lot of ground
en which they could buUd, for the use of their congregation.
During the winter, on his return from Chatauque, where one of his
children had broken a lag, he thus writes : — "Saturday, 22nd Feb., 1823.
'' As I passed Eridgewater on my ride from Black Rock, thinking of
Pell's Canal, brought up the idea again."
Whatever may have been his thoughts during the Sf.turday of that lonely

51
winter's ride along the banks of the Niagara River, this is all we know :
yet, we have reason to believe, that ideas which first originated during his
hours of solitary out-post duty, over the same path during the war of 1812,
were now matured, and doubtless, with the encouraging hopes offered by a
decade of peace, he, perhaps, foresaw the future accomplishment of Ms design.
His memoranda at this time reveals to us, in many cases, his inmost
thoughts ; and occasionally we rpeet with passages abounding with the most
sanguine hopes, and at others, a despondency entirely novel to his energetic
character. Still, when the state of the country is compared with similar
sections in the States, we are not surprised that Mr. Merritt should deplore
the lack of energy exhibited throughout the land ; and perhaps a,sk
whether no higher aspirations than those of a village merchant should not
be within his reach. Although a moderate prosperity was felt in his
neighbom-hood, yet, candidly speaking, things were at a .stand-still outside.
Doubtless, the causes which affected him is aftbrded iu the example of
a territory similarly situated at the present time, as this section of the
country was as isolated in all matters of intercourse and the means of transit,
as was Manitoba, on its founding as a province. We have seen this in the
time and means of transit, for the necessary wants of the people, tlie low
price of their products, and the almost entire want of specie. Authentic re
turns shew, that for the 40 years previous, there had been only an increase of
12 families in the Township of Grantham. The war had a permanent
effect, and the stimulus of British gold, after ten years, had, at its stoppino-,
|eft the value of land less than before. All these circumstances combined
to present an unfavourable impression on the mind of a young and energetic
man with a rising family^— whilst across the border everything was reversed.
The stir and bustle of the great Erie Canal, then going on — the noise of
whose blasting and excavating could almost be heard on our own frontier 
shewed that these people were fully alive to the great wants of the country
and were fit subjects for a contemplative mind such as his. ."-'o that we
often think it strange that at this time he so steadfastly resisted (he
solicitations sent to him from his fathei'-in-law, who was a member of the
New Yor^ Legislature, as well as his mtiny friends in the States, to leave a,
country so devoid of enterprise, and become a citizen of the young and rising
Republic. But the spirit which, in 1812, led him and his countrymen to
feel that they had a country worth looking after, now spurred him on to
the decision, that now, if ever, Canada must awaken to the importance of
her great natural advantages, or forever fall back before her more enterprisino-
neighbours. We believe, under these cii'cumstances, he formed his resolves,
never afterwards to be disturbed. During this season we have reason to
think that all the philosophy which he was master of, was brought to be
in studying Ms own position. In writing to Mrs. Merritt, he says :

52
'' I have been in bad spirits since my return from Chatauque — I think
never more so in my life. I write much, and employ myself incessantly in
some things, but still feel a void."
Again :
" I have the camp iron-bedstead placed in a comer of the office, where
I keep a good fire, and write till 9 or 10 P. M."
This place, which afterwards became the Canal Office, was where Mr.
Merritt did his private business, and -v^as situated at the back of the
parlour, to tha left of the hall, which was converted into a dining room
when the place became an hotel. The house, being well known as a tavern,
stood on the road leading to Niagara, and the mill. Facing the Queenston
road, of which Shipman's was the corner on the oppo.site side, further down
was the store, and in rear, the little Church already spoken of
In one of his letters this spring, he says :
" We have turnpiked the road through the village. Mr. Addison
preached last Sunday, Have ground and sent off 100 barrels of flour.
The mills have not been idle one hour, day or night, when the water serves.
The salt works are doing better than ever. Good sales as $4 per barrel.
The distillery making 60 gallons per day."
In order to give an idea of the improvements alread)' made in the
village, we might mention that he had buildings for himself and those in
his employment, viz : — dwelling house, small house adjoiMng, coopers'
house and shop, blacksmith's house and shop, salt works, and two houses
adjoining, saw mill, grist mill, distillery, and a number of other structures,
such as barns, stables, sheds, &c. Also, five dwelling houses, occupied re-
respectively by Dr. Chase, Henry Mettleberger, clerk ; Charles, hired man ;
Gibson, servant ; Jessie, and John the Indian ; besides employing about 56
jiersons on his different enterprises.
Among his many engagements, he never lost sight of his darling project
the canal.
Referring to his journal for the next Sunday, we find it written in a
peculiarly solemn tone, and concluding as follows :
"May I cleave to the truth. I pray most devotedly that my thoughts
may be chaste and pious, and that our Heavenly Father will endow me with
wisdom." Again, after recurring to his family affairs :
"O Lord ! my heart overflows with gratitude when I reflect on the peace
of mind and happiness I enjoy by ha-ving so worthy a consort, (alluding to
Mr. Williams, minister, lately deceased.) May I refrain from ever giving
an unfavourable opinion of a fellow mortal hereafter."
In hia letter, the following Sunday, after recounting the civil and re
ligious news of the village, he says :

53
"The waters of the Chippewa will be down the "Twelve" in twoyearf,
Ac' By the next Saturday, 22nd March, he had, with his friends, sufficiently
matured his plan, so as to hold his first meeting in Shipman's hotel. And,
he says :
" It is my determination, at present, to pursue the object steadily."
This meeting, in reality, was the commencement of the canal, although
Mr. Merritt refers to it as follows :
" At the meeting on Saturday, nothing was effected. Most of men have
narrow minds. They cannot comprehend any measure beyond their daily
concerns. They are fearful of some imaginary evil, and do not dwell on
the public good. I am, and hope will be, wise enough ever to be averse to
public meetings. Have never yet seen any good arise from them. We
ha/ve, however, determined on having the ground surveyed, and getting the
hoiidsfrom every person living on the route, (be."
And after reverting to the family and business difficulties which had
previously diverted his attention from this object, he says :
" My mind is so wholly occupied, more with business and worldly
matters, than divine; and those sublime ideas that draw us near our Maker,
is excluded. I pray, leisure will be afforded me in due time, to attend more
strictly to them — and that I may receive the one thing needful. We cannot
possibly, in this troublesome world, enjoy the blessings given us, without
experiencing misfortune."
On the 23rd of April, he writes, saying, " that he has been in Niagara
for a week : " from the 7th, to the 1 3th. Whilst here, a subscription was
opened, headed by Mr. Thomas Clark, for the purpose of raising funds to
employ an engineer to make a .survey of the canal. Immediately afterwards,
notwithstanding the frightful state of the roads, and generally, disagreeable
weather, we find Mm at Manchester, in conference with a Mr. Tibbits, a
civil engineer, who was then sui-veying a route for a canal around the Falls,
on the States side, for which a charter had been lately ayiplied for, from the
Legislature. Mr. Tibbets could not leave his engagement until the 6th of
May, when, then, in company with Mr. Merritt, he went over the route,
and ananged the plan, which was worked out, and printed in the Niagara
Gleaner with an address to both Provinces, July 12th. An article in the
same paper, dated April 12th, 1823, says: —
" A subscription has been opened here at the last sessions, for the purpose
of raising money for surveying and taking the level of the land lying be
tween the Chippewa River and the nearest stream leading into Lake
Ontario— with a view of connecting those waters, that they may becoine
navigable for boats. We are happy to see the names of our most respec
table and influential inhabitants at the head of the list, and trust it will ba
liberally supported. The subscription paper will be left with Mr Crooks.
It is obvious a boat navigation would be immediately effected beween Lake

54
Erie and Lake Ontario, except the pitch of the mountain, wMch can be
easily ascended or descended by means of railways, at a small expense. In
a month or so, we hope to publish the report of the engineers on this in
teresting subject."
The boats alluded to here were of light draught. The Batteaux, which
coasted the lake, and with which passages were made by the rapids, on the
St, Lawrence. Those on that part of the Erie canal, now fimshed, (which
we sea, Mr. Merritt thought afterwards to purchase) were of slightly larger
dimensions, and a rail or tramway had been built by the old French tradere,
at Lewiston, a hundred years previous.
That he was entirely unpossessed with the idea of speculation, or a
desire to enhance the value of his own property, -will be seen from
the following letter written to the Hon. W. Dickson, at Niagara, and dated
15th of May in this year, relative to his property, lots 17 and 18.
"You have taken back the lands of other people in this place, and have
offered it to them at much less than the orignal price. I have paid to the,
estate nearly $4,000, for property not worth the haff of it. I -will relin-
quis, I the land, two houses, a barn and shed I have built, and pay you the
baLiiice of the interest &c."
i )n the 1 8th of May, he drevi; up a memorial to Sir Peregrine Maitland,
on the subject, wherein he shewed his Excellency the many advantages his
route possessed over the one heretofore mentioned as having been surveyed
by Mr. Che-witt. The Governor was then li-ving at Stamford Park, and
Mr. Merritt handed his memorial to Col. Coffin, the Secretary, accompanied
with a short explanatory note, wherein he says :
" Enclosed, I place in your hands a rough outline of the proposed canal,
from the mouth of the Twelve Mile Creek to the river Welland, which -will
effect the junction of Lakes Erie and Ontario by boat navigation. Having
been repeatedly over every foot of ground on the proposed route, I shall be
happy, at any time, to have further communication -with your Excellency,
on this very important .'iubjoi.'t."
On the 2 J: til of May, he also -wrote to hi; old friend and companion in
arms. Sir John Harvey, who was commander of the forces at Quebec,
stating his object and plans, and calling his attention, in a military point of
view, to tha fa,ct, that in case of another war with the United States, the
facilities it would afibrd for the transportation of troops and munitions of
war, between the Lakes, and ending as follows ;
¦' Our commissioners would never surveyor level the route, alleging it
was too near the frontier, — consequently we were obliged to employ one
ourselves, and endeavour by similar exertions on our part, to prevent the
States yieoplo from taking all the frontier for themselves. I can bring every
part of this route forcibly to your recollection. It commences 10 miles up
the Chippewa, passes De Cew's, (the house we retreated to on the first night
after we were beaten from Fort George,) and terminates at the Twelve Mile
('reek, (the place our boats landed generally, during the war,) <te."

55
Although Mr. Chewitt's route was surveyed under those probabilities,
being located so far inland, we think Mr. Merritt never believed that in
case of invasion, the^enemy could ever hold the frontier long enough to
make any practical use of the canal projected by Mmself — as events in the
war shewed that the occupation of our soil by the foe was always a source
of more real uneasiness to them than to ourselves. There was also another
stimulant in the matter, as the Erie Canal was fast approaching its connec-
• tion with the Lake, so that a favourable opportunity would present itself
to experienced contractors and workmen who would be then out of employ
ment, to come in and undertake works on our canal, as a subsequent letter
of Mr. Merritt's mentions.
At this time the cheering news (to many, who had waited long and
patiently,) was heard, that the Receiver-General had powers from Lord
Bathurst to draw for £60,000 stg., towards defraying the losses in the lata
war. The auspicious event was hailed with satisfaction, as many of tho
people had suffered severely in that struggle. Major Merritt's losses alono
were estimated at the large sum of £1,381, of which, with others, he received
about one fourth.
It must not be supposed that the time before the opening of the Legis
lature was passed in idleness, as we know that a number of important
affairs in connection with the cause required his unremitting attention.
Thus we find the editor of the Gleaner delayed the notice of the meeting held
at Beaver Dams until the day it was to be held, viz : 28th June, and ac
companied the same with some remarks in favour of the Niagara, or rather,
the Queenston route, which were calculated to cause him some uneasiness,
lest by a conflict of local jealousies entirely foreign to the main object, tho
affair should have fallen tMough. The article in question gave rise to
another from Mr. Merritt, and is the first bearing his signature, dated 5th
of July; and after going over the arguments in favour of the route through
the Twelve Mile Creek, he says :
" We are confident no private company can complete a canal on any
Other route, the same method, viz : a private survey is open to examination.
If you will show us a better one between this time and the next session of
Parliament, the same company we are now endeavouring to form, will join
you. Until this is done, do not prejudice our exertions, &c."
Thus it will be seen, that although he was, as we have shewn, firmly
impressed with the idea of his own projection being the shortest, cheapest,
and most feasible, (which subsequent results have fully borne out,) — yet,
being thorougMy con-vinced of the urgent necessity of a canal in any form,
between the lakes, we find that he, sooner than have none, is -willing to re
linquish the credit justly due to him, in order that the country at largo
might be benefitted. And we think, in expressing Mmself as he did on the
occasion, that he shewed a spirit of disinterestedness which few men would

56
have thought of, after the circumstances recounted in the eariier pages of
tMs memoir. It is an easy task for men to suggest improvements and de
vise schemes when the preliminary parts of the work are laid before them,
but we always find that innovators and critics are the first to shrink from
the difficulties which sunound the bold man who proposes any new idea,
with the perspicuity, and we may almost say the spirit of prophecy that
possessed our subject at this time. And although we might fill a few pages
in describing the local jealousies and petty troubles which should have b«en
forgotten in the one grand national object, we think it better to refrain from
noticing the ridiculous attempts to thwart his endeavours at this critical
time, and will therefore pursue the nanative as it goes.
On the 28th of June, a meeting of the residents, called by an advertise
ment in The Gleaner, a week previous, was held at McClelland's, at the
Beaver Dams. It was patronized by only two gentlemen from the frontier,
Messrs. Clark and Dickson. On the motion of Mr. Woodruff, Mr. Memtt
was appointed their agent, to carry out their plans. Mr. George Keefer
was chairman of the meeting.
June 28th. — An address was presented by Mr. Merritt, which was
accepted ; and it, with Mr. Tibbet'g report, was ordered to be printed and
circulated as generally as possible. As for expenses, Mr. Merritt had to bear
all. The small meeting, though attended by wealthy men, contributed
nothing. The documents were accompamed by a note : —
" Hoping you -will insert it in your paper gratis ; and any favourable
remark you may make will be duly appreciated, etc."
(Signed,) "W. H. Mee^itt, Agent."
The object of this address is plaiMy stated, also that the six months
notice for the incorporation was advertised, noticing that the engineering
facilities for our route, so long advocated, was now confirmed by a professional
engineer. " The extraordinary exertions which our neighbours have made for tbe
improvement of their country, point out to those who wish well to us,
the necessity which exists for similar exertions — for, unless some efforts
be steadily resorted to, we must lose our trade."
" The prairie country of the far west not yet being settled.
"It is a melancholy subject to reflect upon — the immense tracts of fine
timbered land, which, for want of facilities, are at present wholly unpro
ductive. From this circumstance, much of their hewn timber, staves, and
other descriptions of lumber, although in constant demand at Quebec, forth*
supply of our West Indian colonies, are not forthcoming."
After this, he notices the favourable state of the soil and climate for
agriculture, but to render this valuable, he branches out :
" It is necessary to the farmer that he should possess the means, not
only of shipment, but of converting his produce into a fit state for use.
Messrs, Clark & Street's mill at the Falls, from Long Point, on the shores of

57
Lake Erie, round to Dundas, at the upper end of Lake Ontario, (and he
might have extended it to an illimitable distance thence,) is the only mill
possessing facilities to carry on a merchantable business,"
He lets the Canadian public know, however, " If a sufficient degree of
public spirit should not be found in the two Provinces, to complete so great
and noble an object, others will be appealed to."
While writing his scheme to Governors and Commanders, he conesponds
¦with his old business agent in Montreal, to which this is the answer :
" I am most happy indeed to learn that the canal from the " Twelve "
to CHppewa, as laid do-wn by you, is at length likely to take effect so soon.
The undertaking is trifling indeed compared with the results, which, in my
opimon, may be looked for from such a work. I have ^very little doubt that
such a scheme would meet with liberal support in the way of taking up
stock from the inhabitants here — and I shall certainly feel gratified in
lending it every assistance in my power. George Davis."
On the 4th of July a practical meeting was held at St. Catharines,
and a petition was drawn up for presentation to the Legislature, for
an act to form a Company with powers to cut and build a canal,
after Mr. Merritt's projection.
On the 17th of July, Mr. Merritt was instructed to visit Lockport, and
examine the works on the Erie Canal, and obtain information, &c. In his
diary at this time, he expresses his admiration of the energy of the people in
pushing this great woj-k ahead, and almost enthusiastically exclaims :
" An enterprising peojile can effect wonders ! "
The following extracts relating to his journey and general impressions
will also be found interesting : —
"18th July to 27th, no stir in Lewiston, or appearance of business,
"19th.-— Left for Lockport. As rough a road as can well bo tra-velled;
broke a waggon-bolt. Lockport bids fair to become a large and flourishing
city. The eanal progresses as fast as it can, from the slow progress of
blasting the rock. Mr. Roberts, the head engineer, gave me a certifiicate of
efficiency for Mr. Tibbits. Observe no intemperance, and much cordiality,
directions given in a mild unassuming manner.
" Left for Rochester in stage; arrived at 1 o'clock.
"Monday 21st entered on board Montezuma packet, made a minute sur
vey of freight boat, &c.
" There is no impediment whatever in our plan ; the course of this canal
and all I have conversed with confirms me in this opinion ; an advantage
will be derived for begining early, as many of the contractors being out of
work wUl have all their tools on hand and prepared to commence immediately;
the boats on this canal will be ready to pass over, and with the least enter
prise wo -will do the greatest part of the business. The St. Lawrence is the
natural outlet for their staple produce; every merchant in Genesee County
now send their ashes to Montreal, <fec. Mbmc— " See Mr. Tibbits, or head
engineer, about price per yard for excavating, <fec."

58
The circular alluded to was ordered to be sent to almost every person of
influence in tho Province, and to every Post-master, with Mr. Tibbit's report
on the canal. . Subscription lists were also sent, with an appeal based on
patriotic grounds, requesting the parties to become agents towards the enter
prise. They were also sent to Lower Canada ; and notices to Mr. George
Davis, of Montreal, as being the agent for that Province. So, we find that
during this period, he had written the enormously large number of one thou
sand letters on the subject of the canal. And, as various articles from his
pen appear from time to time in The Gleaner, with the circulars and other
matters alluded to, all shew that the project was then fully committed to
the public attention and criticism.
After his return from visiting the works on the Erie Canal, and attending
for a time to his private affairs, we find him visiting Niagara, the county
seat and local capital, on legal business, on or about the 10th of September,
and the usual advertising notices in reference to the canal reappears in Tht
Gleaner. He then leaves for York, for the purpose, we presume, of attending
to the time-honoured custom of " lobbying " the canal bill through the
House ; a.s, previously, we find that he was very anxious, and not without
some misgivings as to the action ofthe Assembly on the bill.
Four days after the opening of Parliament, Mrs. Merritt writes, 15th
November :
" H  set out to-day ior York, on the canal business. He is de
sirous to do all he possibly can, Ac."
On the 11th of November, 1823, tha Parliament opened, and the Gover
nor, Sir P. Maitland, in his speech, told the House that many important
measures relative to internal improvements would be brought forward, iScc.
On the 19th day of January, 1324, the Act passed, incorporating
Messrs. George Keefer, Thomas Merritt, George Adams, William Chisholm,
Joseph Smith, Paul Sliipraan, John Decew, William Hamilton Menitt, and
others, as a company to be known as the '• Welland Canal Company," with
a capital oi forty thousand pouwls, divided into shares of £12. 10 each, Ac.
Very little opposition was offered to the bill, as most intelligent men now
saw the necessity of some better means of communication across the penin
sula ; and the lucid manner in which our subject explained his project con
vinced most men of its practicability.
On the 1st of January, I 824, in a long letter to the editor of The Gleanvr,
he notices the passage of t! a bill through both Houses, and ends by compli
menting Niagara harbour for a terminus.
On the 11th of January, he writes to- Doctor Prendergast :
"There are some important measures taking place in this country, in
which I am hkely to be an actor; and am therefore anxious to see you, to
profit by your advice, 4c."

59
And after detailing Ms ideas on the "deep cut " route, he says :
" There is to be another cut to the Grand River, which will open the
whole western country at once, &c. * * We intend sending an
agent to Montreal shortly."
The mind of our subject was now partially relieved, and his next object
was to induce capitalists to take up the stock, an affair which was not
accomplished -without an enormous amount of hard work and persuasion ;
aa the secret lay in the fact of the poverty of the upper country, after the
trying financial crisis they had undergone. Few in the Lower Province had
sufficient surplus funds to invest in what might possibly be an unprofitable
speculation. Mr. Merritt was well aware of these things, and therefore in
stead of immediately inviting capitalists to come forward, he published the
comprehensive article alreedy noticed, minutely describing the whole
affair, its prospects, difficulties &c.; in fact placing the matter in so plain a
light that the most uneducated could understand the question. This was
well circulated through the Gleaner, and otherwise, and caused the question
to be discussed from every point of view.
On the 30th of January, 1824, a large and influential meeting was held
in Niagara, and a committee of seven was formed under the power of the
Act, who were to exert themselves in their various localities to obtain sub
scribers for the stock. A resolution was also passed, authorizing Mr. Mer
ritt to proceed to Lower Canada, and induce the interests of Montreal and
Quebec to co-operate. The meeting separated in harmony, a circumstance
Mr. Merritt hardly expected ; as already local jealousies were cropping out
which although premature, were to be feared at this time.
Mrs. Merritt writes to her friends : — "St. Catharines, Jan. 16, 1824.
* '* * " Hamilton ia so much taken up with his great canal
scheme, that he cannot go at present, though he says he should be pleased
to do so, and I will not go without him. He is getting over head and ears
in public business, as if he had not enough of his own to attend to. It
'appears he has been writing a long piece in the Gleaner about tha canal.
and -will soon have to go and attend public meetings, etc. There is talk of
sending him to the legislature next session. All the talk is about the canal.
I have -written this letter while a Canal Commissioner was talking to me ;
for we were both in a hurry, he expecting Hamilton's coming, and I expect
ing the post. He is just in from Niagara, where he says the people are
enquiring 'if this route was practicable.' Oh, says he, ' Ye must subscribe
liberally, iff-will be the making of your country.' They say ' Yes, if you
win fetch it to Niagara."'
On the 8th of Februarjr, Mr. Merritt and family experienced a most
melancholy and heart-rending shock. Mrs.' Gordon, his eldest sister, and
her daughter, aged 1 3 years, in company with a Miss Stephens, were cross-

60
ing in the ferry from Queenston to Lewiston, when a large piece of floating
ice was driven by the force of the current against the boat, capsizing it, and
throwing the ladies and ferryman into the rapid river ; they managed to
cling to it as long as they could, but Miss Stephens and the child soon
sank, never to be seen again. A scow passing at the time took off Mrs.
Gordon and the man, whom they conveyed to the shore ; and although medi
cal assistance was promptly at hand, Mrs. G. expired, through cold and ex
haustion, but the man recovered. Her body was conveyed to St. Catha
rines, for interment in the family burial place. She was in her 33rd year,
and her loss was keenly felt, not only by her disconsolate husband, who
was driven almost to distraction, but by the small community who held
her in high esteem for her many noble qualifications.
Soon afterwards our subject went to York, on Ms way to Quebec. There
he met with his first encouragement by the Hon. J. H. Dunn, ileceiver
General, promising to take stock in the canal, and also agreeing to accept
the presidency of the new company. Promises were also made by Mr. Ro
binson, afterwards Chief Justice, and many others of influence. He then
moved eastward by stage, stopping at every place and calling on the leading
men, explaining his project, leaving his books and circulars, and invariably
getting fair promises from all. At Kingston he had an interview with
Messrs. Hagarman, Markland & McAuley, and also with Commodore Barry;
In Gananoque he saw the McDonalds, who had large mills there ; in Pres-
cott he left circulars with Billa Flint, Esq.; from thence he travelled in a
stage sleigh to Cornwall, and afterwards in a cariole to Montreal — a, long
and dreary journey, rendered worse by being done in mid- winter ; and yet
he had really not received an actual subscription on the route. Although
promises were plenty, they all acted -with caution. In Montreal, he stopped
at the Exchange Hotel, and immediately called a meeting of the merchants,
gave books and papers to Messrs. Gates & Davis, who undertook to canvass
the city.
During the whole of this journey he was very careful to keep his friends
advised of his proceedings. One of bis letters to Mrs. Merritt, written from
Quebec, the furthest point of his mission, is here inserted, and will afford a
sample of all the rest : " Quebec, March 14, 1824.
"I cannot say I am any nearer the day of departure than before jby what I
see, it appears necessary I should remain until I get all the stock taken up that
- is to be expected from this place. They will do nothing after I leave, and it
would be rather foreign to leave the business half done, now I am on the spot.
I have the satisfaction to say that I will succeed in my object, although it is
slow, hard work; everybody wishes the undertaking well, but when it comes to
the needfull, they keep their hands from paper. The business was taken up

61
warmly by my old friend, the Honorable James Irvin ; he is the only gentlemen
that I have yet met with, that has supported me in the business as they ouo-ht
to have done."
"W. H. Merritt."
On the 4th of March he arrived at Three Rivers, and thence to Quebec.
Here he was received in the kindest manner. He attended the prorogation
of Parliament, and dined with Mr. Irvine. He had an interview with the
Chairman of the Board of Trade, who called a meeting to listen to his views.
He also paid his respects to Lord Dalhousie, the Governor. The following
day the meeting was held, being ably opened' by the Hon. Mr. Irvine ; and
tlie first thousand pounds was subscribed. In Quebec Mr. Merritt made a
number of good friends, which afterwards paved the way for further suc
cesses. On the same day, he tells us "he attended church, and heard an excel
lent sermon from Dr. Mills." In all his memoranda we invariably find
what church he attended on the Sabbath days, the name of the minister, etc.;
So that although busily engaged in works of general utility, he was never
unmindful of the homage due to his Creator, through whose favour alcne
he acknowledges success to be possible.
On the 16th he called on Lord Dalhousie again, who received him with
every kindness ; also promising to bring his scheme before the Home au.
thorities, as His Excellency was very favourably impressed with Mr. Mer
ritt's ideas. Here he got a circular printed in French, for the benefit of
those Canadians who did not understand our language, hoping to interest
them among the rest in the opening of a water passage to the French Cana
dian settlements opposite Detroit.
He then left for Montreal, where he found very little had been done in
his absence. On the 20th he returned by way of New York State, calling
at Troy for the purpose of seeing De Witt Clinton, the originator of the
Erie Canal. The expenses of the round trip were about $150. He con
sidered the journey a successful one, as he hed got $50,000 subscribed
towards the work; and now felt so sanguine of ultimate success, that he in
serted an advertisement in the paper, stating that Mr. Clowes, the Engineer,
was then employed in taking levels of the route, so that any person desi
rous of contracting for the work could examine the ground prior to the 15th
May, when he supposed the Company would be in a position to receive
proposals, as he was anxious to commence work on the Welland Canal as
soon as possible.
On the 15th of May following, the adjourned meeting was held at
Niagara for the election of directors under the Act. All were present except
Mr. Dunn. They decided to postpone their operations until the entire
stock was subscribed for, and estimates given of the whole route, that of the

62
Grand River included. In commenting on these proceedings, The Gleaner of
May 22nd says : — " This is as it ought to be."
On the 1 2th of June, a meeting ofthe Directors was held in Shipman's
Hotel, St. Catharines, when George Keefer, of Thorold, was elected Presi
dent instead of the Hon. J. H. Dunn, whose duties at present as Receiver-
General did not permit him to devote the necessary time to the eoterprise.
In July, the Messrs, Clowes, from a new survey, gave in their report ofthe
route and probable expenditure. Land owners along the line were appealed
to for free grants of the land required, as was the case on the Erie Canal.
In August, the general election occupied their attention — five candidates
being in the field for Lincoln. Col, John Clark, of Louth, received the
most votes for his Riding, he being more respected and popular than any
of the others.
An era of general hope and prosperity seemed to have begun, and. tbe
necessities of commerce regained ; as the most e-vident signs of activity was
-witnessed on every hand. The country was rapidly clearing up — ne-w houses
beiuT built, new districts opened for settlement. 300 vessels had left
Quebec for British and foreign ports ; and in this year the largest vessel in
the world was successfully launched in that eity — her dimensions being 306
ft. long, 50 ft. wide, 29 ft. deep, and drawing 20 ft. of water when loaded.
She was named Columbus, and was capable of canying 9,000 tons of timber.
A few English Members of Parliament visited the country 'this year, on
a tour of observation. They were — Mr. Wortley, Hon. Mr. Stanley, and
Mr. Denmson — all influential men in England.
Mr. Merritt was kept busy with the salt and other works, as well as Dr.
Chase, in the store. Some of his friends had wished him to offer Mmself for
Parliament, but he respectfully declined, thinking he had enough on his
hands at that time to keep him occupied.
A steamer was building at Black Rock in anticipation of water communi
cation with the lower lakes.
In faimly affairs he mentions his children as growing.
Mr. Gordon had erected a nice monument to the memory of his late wife
and daughter, and Miss Stephens.
So far, all applications for the necessary capital to build the canal was
made only to the Canadian people, but as we have seen that the money of
fered at home bore but a small proportion towards the amount required, a
meeting of the Canal Board was convened on the 6th of September, and it
was deemed advisable to extend thsir operations to wealthier communities
outside. Under these circumstances an appropriation was made, and Mr.
Merritt was requested to go to New York, then as now the gieat money
centre of America. He left on the 1 7th and arrived there on the 24ih,
ha-ving made what was then considered a remarkably quick trip.

63
I
In New York we find the same energy displayed by our subject, as he
succeeded in interesting J. B. Yates, Esq., in the project. That gentleman
who afterwards became a warm supporter of the cause, immediately taking
up $30,000 worth of the stock, as well as Mr. Alfred Hovey, who took
$10,000 worth.
The editor of the New York Spectator, then an influential newspaper,
after calling attention to Mr. Merritt's presence there, noticing reports from
Canadian papers for the past year, &c., says:
" The plans and profiles we have at length seen. $50,000 was subscribed
in this city on Saturday last. We congratulate our friends in that country
on the prospect of improvements before them. The whole scheme or project
appears well designed, and has been carried on -with a degree of energy quite
unusual in that country, and we sincerely wish it may be carried on with
the same spirit until completed."
Also notices the meeting to be held at Utica on the 20th, and
Rochester on the 23i-d, &c.
After what he calls a "most successful mission — far beyond his expec
tations," he retumed on tho 18th of October, coming by way of Chatauque,
where Mrs. Merritt was staying during her confinement. Owing to this,
and having to meet with contractors, &c., he was delayed longer than he ex
pected, and deeply regi-etted not being home in time to as.sist in the removal
of the remains of the heroic Brock to the monument erected on Queenston
Heights, by and at the expense of a grateful people.
On the 15th of November, contracts were taken by responsible men for
completing the canal from the Chippewa to the entrance of the Twelve Mile
Creek; and on the 30th day of November, 1824, au interesting gathering
of about 200 persons, took place at a fiat near the head of one ofthe branches
ofthe " Twelve," for the purpose of witnessing the important ceremony of
" Turning the first sod of the Welland Canal." The operations were under
the directions of Mr. Hall, and Mr. (Clowes the engineer.
Mr. Merritt made the following speech on the occasion, which better
explains the management of the enteqirise than any matter at our disposal
"Having been appointed an agent by the President and Directors of the
Welland Canal Company to manage the aflairs for the time being, they have
honored me with an opportunity of addressing you at this time, and I assure
you that nothing could afford me greater satisfaction, was I not conscious,
from want of ability, and not being in the habit of public speaking, I shall
fall far short of doing common justice to the occasion. We are assembled
here this day for the purpose of removing the fir.it earth from a canal wMch
-will, with th© least, and by the shortest distance, connect the greatest extent
of inland waters, in the whole world ; and it gives me peculiar pleasure to
find the line of this canal has been located in this neighborhood, the inhab
itants of which have turned out on all occasions with a zeal and alacrity
worthy of the undertaking. Their homes have been open at all times, and to

64
their personal exertions we are greatly indebted for its speedy commence
ment. You are now, gentlemen, about receiving the just and well merited
rewards for your time and hospitality. The first attempt that was made to
level this route was in 1818. A meeting was held at the Beaver Dams, a
plan drawn out, and a petition sent to the Legislature, requesting they
would send an engineer to explore the route. Its advantages were not at that
time fully comprehended, and our request was not attended to.
In 1818 the Legislature appropriated a sum of money to explore the country
between Lakes Erie and Ontario. Commissioners were appointed, to whom
we applied, stating the natural advantages of the route, and requested it
should be explored. They considered it too near the frontier, and we were
again disappointed; 1819. Ha-ving failed in our applications, we were sensible
if we did not make use of gi-eat jiersonal exertion we could never bring tbe
subject properly before the public. We were fully aware of the supposed
magnitude of the undertaking ; we were sensible that the personal interest
of the capital, and talent of the district were against us, and that we had
no co-operation to expect from them, which the i-esult fully proved. Every
attempt has been made to get this project taken up by able hands, but not
one individual in the province of extensive capital, or in any high official
station has given it the least assistance, excepting the Hon. John H. Dunn.
He came forward at an early day, and has given us his steady and warmest
support. At the same time we were conscious if disinterested capitalists
were aware of the natural facilities of the route, the simple fact of uniting so
Ifraat an extent of waters at so trifling an expense would be a sufficient in
ducement for them to embark in it. We therefore detei-mined to depend
on others no longer, but apply our own shoulders to the wheel, and set
about it in good earnest. A subscription paper was made out at the April
session, 1823, a small sum of money raised, an engineer employed, and a
report of the same laid before the public on the 10th of May. An
Act of incorporation was obtained at the next sitting of the Legislature in
February, 1824. Subscriptions were made at Quebec and this place in May
following to the amount of near $50,000. It was our intention at that time
to follow it up immediately, and commence the work at this point in June
last. However, as some gentlemen in this District, who where wholly mis
informed respecting the situation of the route, thought proper to write be
low, stating the whole scheme to be entirely visionary, and would most
probably result in a total loss to the subscribers, we were under the necessity
of suspending operations until surveys and reports were obtained by differ
ent engineers; which have already been publi.shed, and have given perfect
satisfaction. We then sent to New York and obtained the aid required
to cover the first estimates, and have now put this part of the line under
cantraot, as was the original design. We have had difficulties and prejudices
to contend with, but not as many as were apprehended ; and taking every
thing into consideration, we have commenced as soon as could reasonably
be expected. A report having been recently circulated that the stockholders
in Quebec refuse to pay the amount of their subscriptions, we beg leave to
read an extract of a paper rccived from the Committee in Quebec, through
our agents, Messrs. Irvine, McNought & Co., addressed to the President,
(Jeorge Keefer Esq. :— " Sii-, at a general meeting of the Stockholders
resident m the District of Quebec, held on Monday last, the reports, letter
and documents received from you and Mr. Merritt were submitted, and the

65-
whole gavegreat satisfaction. The general meeting having every eonfidenoe
in the judgment discretion, and pnident management of the Dii-ectors ia
conducting the general concerns of the Welland Canal Company, as well as '
in the economical expenditure of the funds confided to their direction have
withdrawn the restrictions heretofore thought necessary. The Directors
need not entertain and doubt of the due payment by the Stockholders.
They mention this not only -with a -view of satisfying the public, but more
especially the contractors, as we wish them to retain every confidence in the
Directors, and to rest assured of the punctual fulfilment of our engagements
in Quebec of the instalments when called for, their doubts in the expediency
and advantage of the undertaking being quite removed ; and as already
stated, in the integrity of your management they rest with implicit reliance."
There still remains about $30,000 to be subscribed to fill up the amount of
oui- capital. It was the wish ofthe Directors to have $100,000 taken up ia
the pro-vinces, and $50,000 elsewhere, that we might have a greater interest
in a work which so materially concerns us. We hope and trust every
farmer and inhabitant within the influence of this canal will make them
selves interested in the undertaking, by subsribing for more or less shares.
It will be a peculiar satisfaction to you, one and all, to go to your own
mills and machinery — everything you take to them, besides your convenience,
¦will be putting money in your own pockets. We wish tliis stock to become
general, and you may rely if you let this opportunity pass, you will have
reason to regret it. There is not the least doubt but it will be the most
profitable description of stock. This ii the opinion of almost every intelli
gent man who has given himself the trouble thoroughly to examine the
subject, J. B. Yates, Esq,, has taken stock to the value of $30,000, Mr.
Alfred Hovey $10,000. These gentlemen have no interest in tlie country
whatever ; but have taken it for no other object than the returns they ar«
hereafter to receive. Gentlemen this canal, from its peiuliar and most
favourable situation, -wOl be the means of creating within itself, or by its o-wn
erection, a greater amount of transportation than will ])ay the interest of
the capital expended, over and above the transit it -will draw fiom Lake
Brie, and the profits of its hydraulic situation. It is well known to you that
the banks ofthe River Welland and the Grand River abound with an almost
inexhaustible supply of pine timber, now uselesss, which will be floated
down to our establishments, convert.ecl into lumber, and transported to the
entrance of the American canal at Tonawanda, where it must ever find &
constant and ready demand, as their borders are destitute of the article.
There are liltewise important quarries of the [lurest white gypsum, or plaster,
on the borders of the Grand River, which will soon become a profitable article
of commerce. Staves can be conveyed from thence to Lake Ontario for $2
or $3 per 1000. All the produce from the most remote townships of that
river and west of it, which now goes to Burlington, will come through this
canal. The transit of those articles, and many more too numerous to mention,
¦will be created by its erection, besides thousands of barrels of flour, which
¦will be drawn from the sunounding country to its mills. By entering the
mouth of the Grand River one month earlier every Spring, we ¦will draw all
the early transit from the American shore, even should they join their
own canal again at Tonawanda, This is an advantage of the greatest im
portance, and one which this will ever retain, as nature has placed such a
barrier to the entra.nce at Buffalo, by the ice, that with all their enterprisei

«6
and ingenuity they will never be able to overcome it. In case it should
hereafter be found expedient, by the erection of one lock with a four foot
lift at Fort Erie or Waterloo, and making a tow path on the Niagara or
Chippawa rivers, which can be accomplished at a small expense, vessels can
be towed of any burthen from I^ake Erie to Lake Ontario. — This penisula ig
wholly destitute of a situation for rivers, that can even be considered mer
cantile, the falls of Niagara excepted. This canal having the Niagara for
its feeder at tho commencement, ¦will afford the best and most numerous sit
uations for machinery, within the same distance in" America ; wet or dry,
warm or cold, we always have the same abundant and steady supply of water,
which ¦will be alternately made use of without any detriment to transportaton,
until its termination in Lake Ontario. The very idea of those contemplated
improvements has a tendency to exhilarate our spirits. Instead of remain
ing in this dull, supine state, in which we have been for years past, we will
mingle in the bustle and active scenes of business; our commodities will be
enhanced in value, and a general tide of prosperity will be witnessed on the
whole line and surrounding country. In short, gentlemen, we are situated
in a country favoured with every advantage, both in soil, climate and situa
tion; its resources only remain to be kno-i\n to drav,^ men of capital amongst
us; and we trust, now improvements have commenced, it will increase, and
that we may witness the same spirit of enterprise hare, which our neighboms,
the Americans, possess in so eminent a degree. We have now stated the
local advantages of this canal, and the reasonable expectation we have to
think it will become a profitable speculation to the shareholders. You may
think we are hazarding a bold assertion ; but I verily believe it to be as
great a nafiotml object to the Provnce as the Erie Canal to the State of New
York. They have appropriated $8,000,000 for the purpose of connecting
Lake Erie with the Hudson River or the Ocean, we will effect the same
object for one fiftieth part of the money, and will reap equal if not superior
advantages by the Welland. This canal is the commencement of a simi
lar undertaking; it is the most important link in that chain of communicar
tion — we Lope to see effected within three years. We remove the only
natural banier of importance — the I'alls of Niagara. The rapids bet-ween
Prescott and Lacldna commands tha next consideration. If the subject is
properly befora tl, e Legislature cf the two Pro-vinces this v>-inter it can be
commsencedthe year follo^vi;ig. There is nothing novel, new cr intricate in
the undertaking,- or tbe method to be i I'irsuod. Let us ouly follov.' the plan
arloptcJ by that celebrajej and enligiiteued statesrne.n, De V7itt Clinton,
and it v/ill succeed without taxing the country one farthing. If they can
make a canal 300 miles without taxation, I trust we can do the same for 50
miles by followiag similar means. When v/e contemplate the natural ad
vantages we possess over the Americans in our water communication, it is
astonishing to to think of the apathy and indifference that has hitherto pre-
v.iiled amongst us on this subject. If we inquire the cause, nine-tenths of
us would blame tlie Government. There never was a more erroneous idea,.
V/e are ever inclined to move the burden from our shoulders, and we can only
blame ourselves. Nor ought we to suppose our Governors are as immediate
ly interested in any part or portion of the country, as the inhabitants who
are living on the spot. If you wore asked in what branch ofthe Legislature
should those measures emanate, you would readily answer, the branch com-
' posed of the Commons; they are sent from amongst us ; their interest is ours,

67
and if we do not find exertion among them, where are we to look for it? Show
m'e ft measure that has passed that body for the improvement of the country,
andVou will find it has received the concurrence and sanction of the other
branches. It is a rare occunence that measures of great national improve
ment originate from the administration of the Government. It was not the
Governor of New York who fiist recommended the Erie Canal, it was brought
forward by the people, who were the most interested. The system or plan
was matured by Mr. Clinton in an early day, and the act finally passed in
1817, during the administration of Govemor Tompkins. I mention this
circumstance more particularly as a most unfounded idea is entertained not
only among ourselves but in the United States, that the cause of our negli
gence and inattention to the improvement of the country originates in the
Government of the colony, and has a tendency to prevent people of capital from
making it their residence. We shall soon begin to realize the benefit aris
ing from the American canal; this will create a competition between the
rival markets — New York and Montreal or Quebec — and be a general benefit
to the whole country above us. All the produce from the American side
will be carried down the St. L-awrence, for we will have nearly the same
advantages in transit as heretofore. It will be the means ofthe more close
ly uniting the interests of the two Provinces and increasing the character
and reputation of our country abroad. The Directors have reason to believe
they have been fortunate in obtaining contractors every way qualified for
the undertaking ; and it is to be hoped in your future choice you will select
men of integrity and perseverance, who will carry on the work as rapidly as
under existing circumstances it has commenced, that they may command
the perfect confidence of the contractors, and be so fortunate as to obtain
contractors who will bo entitled to the confidence of their men. In that
case every branch will harmonize, and there will be no difficulty in complet
ing the all-important undertaking. That it may have a speedy and success
ful termination, is the most ardent wish of the Welland Canal Company."
Mr. Hall then delivered into the hands of Geo. Keefer, Esq., President
of the Board of Directors, a spado, addressing him as follows: —
"Mr. President, — I beg leave to present you with this spade, for the pur
pose of removing the first earth from the Welland Canal."
Mr. Keefer, on taking the spa.do said :
"Cetitleinen, it is with pleasure that I remove the first earth from tha
Welland Canal, and ardently hope the work may continue uninterrupted
until the whole is completed."
The rest of the gentlemen then proceeded in rotation to remove each his
shovelful of earth ; when a short and appropriate address was delivered by
John Clark, Escj., M. P. P., stating that he would support the interests of
the Welland Canal, both in an out of Parliament, vrith all his influence.
After three cheers, the company adjourned to the Inn, vrhere a very good
dinner was served by Mr. Beadgerlay, to thirty-four gentlemen. Geo. Kee
fer Esq., and John Clark, Esq., did the honors of the table. After the cloth
was removed, toasts were proposed and unanimously carried, when' the com
pany separated about dusk, highly pleased with tho transaction of the day.
* ^ ^ *

68
It is but an act of justice to the people of St. Catharines, to say, that
they turned out and gave their ready assistance, as well as those on the
mountain, to the enterprise. Mr. Henry Mittleberger, (noticed before) who
was living at the time with Mr. Menitt, has kindly allowed access to hia
journal. This journal is very complete in regard to canal matteis, having
an account of the first meeting on the 22nd March, 1823.
" Mav 6. — Messrs. INIarritt and Chisholm went to Queenston to bring up
the engineer — they were engaged on the deep cut.
" 8th. — Mr. Merritt and party down tha mountain to Campbell's, and
then returned home. The opinion of the engineer is ve:y favourable so far.
We intend proceeding to the lake to-monow.
" 9th. — Went to Peter Pv.ykert's to get a few hands to attend them.
Started for Campbell's after a rain. Made the best of the way down to
Mr. Adams' saw mill, levelling all the way down, when all hands dispersed
except Mr. Merritt and the engineer, who followed him to tho Lake."
Things were not adjusted to the satisfaction of the frontier people
yet, as the following proceedings extiaete.l from the GUaner, terminating
10th Decembt'r, will shew .
" A meeting was advert.ised on the 20th November. A very respectable
number convened. (709 shai-es, — $35,450, were subscribed.) Holmes,
Brackenridge, George Keefer, and Thomas Butler %\-ere the principal per-
tonages. The route was not to be decided until after the new directors
were chosen. Every person present was disposed to take shares, pro
vided it should terminate at the Niagara river. A number was taken that
evening, and 100 next da}'. After resolutions, meeting adjourned until
fst December, when a, manager was appointed, and more stock taken."
8th December. — Another, in which was published the grant of right of
way of land on the j-oute.
December 11th. — The Glea7ier'e comments were of the opinion that all
vessels drawing fiom 7 to 13. ft. of water, could load at Niagara. Should
timber continue an article of export., of which there was no doubt, it
could be loaded or unloaded in fine or foul weather .
" It must appear to the public, now when the matt^er is brought before
them, it was a strange place that was contemplated, -at the mouth of the
Twelve Mile Creek."
Shortly after, a meeting was held as St. Catharines, at which the same
queries were proposed to engineer Clews that were proposed to engineer
Hall by the Niagara one — and were answered equally to their satis
faction. The 6th resolution was in strong language, and it, with the
other documents was circulated to the stockholders.
Resolved,— Wa forbear noticing the mean, unmanly, insinuation held out
by the Niagara committee in the close of their communication, being con
scious it will meet with the contempt it merits. S. Wood, Chairman.
G. Rykert, Secretary.

69
During the winter after tho commencement of the canal, Mr. Merritt
remained about home, frequently visiting the works at AUanburgh.
Mrs. Merritt and the children did not arrive from Chatauque iu
December, so that they were not all together again at Chiistmas. His
anxiety was relieved by having disposed of half of the salt works to an
Englishman named Clows, who undertook the superintendence, which set him
at liberty to pursue his avocation on the canal, as that work henceforth
would require his attention during its progi-ess.
At this period of our history, it may not be unprofitable, after the
lapse of half a century, to revert back to other important events, and in
a brief way enquire into the moral welfare of the people whom we arenow
writing about, particulaiiy that portion of their history relating to Church
matters. The general observations made by Doctor Cannift" in his
" Settlement of Upper Canada," is as applicable to the people of this
district as to any other.
" The circumstances of the settlers in Upper Canada were not such as
would conduce to the growth of religion and morality. Apart from the effect
upon them resulting from a civil war, and being driven away from home,
isolated in a wilderness far removed from civiliz.ation — there were circum
stances inimical to the observance of religious duties. I'he earnest contest
( for life, the daily struggle for food, and more especially the absence of
ministers of the gospel, all combined to create a feeling of apathy and in-
difference,if not a looseness of mor-als."
From the habit of emigrating, the statistics already given, shew that the
increase up to this time was but small, and the evidence of there being a
church built on the " Twelve," (over a quarter of a century previous to tMs
time- — 1825) and a congregation gathei-ed thereto, and maintained without
the supervision of a regular pastor, shews that the feelings of loyally, which
first drove these people to the wilderness, was also tinctured with deep
religious convictions. We find amongst the early records of the settlement,
that on the 17th of February, 1796, a list of subscribers is made out, with
the amounts given by each, towards building a cluirch. There are 44 names
appended to this old document, and amounts varying from £36.10.6, N. Y.
currency, which was given by Major Ditterick, interspersed with £16.
from Mr. John Hainer, and £12 from Mr. J. Backhouse, to the small
sum of 8s. — in all, £121.12 subscribed — is offered for its accomplishme t.
The original document is headed " Appointment to the Church at St.
Catharines, with their respective sums next to their names." No hint is
given why this name is used, further than the fact that Catharine Butler,
the wife of their revered leader, had died three years before — 1793. A
plan of the church accompanies the document, shewing it to have had one
dozen double pews, 7 ft, x 4, surroundo<l by an aisle 3 ft. wide, which en
closed 8 single pews, 15^ x 2 J, w.t'i a gallery on three sides — and without

70
steeple or belfry. The building being the modest size of 30 ft. x 34, and
lighted by means of four circular topped windows.
On the 24th of January, 1798, we find that they get a deed for four
acres of land from Mr. Pv.. Hamilton, and that in the year 1810, Mr.
Ditterick and T. Adams, carpenters, have an account for making four circular
windows — also bills for lumber, &c., amountmg to £Ji.O, N. Y. currency,
by Roswell Mathews.
On the 25th of March, 1811, we find CMsholm and Merritt credited
with £25.19.7, and afterwards, Thomas Menitt, father cf our subject, with
the handsome sum of £33. Again, we find : — " At a meeting of the
trustees of the Church of St. Cathaiines, called by request ofthe inhabitants,
on Saturday, 3rd July, 1819, signed by W. H. Menitt, Esq., Secretary, the
following trustees were present, -viz : — George Adams, Jacob Ditterick,
Thomas Merritt, and Paul Shipman. The following resolutions are adopted:
That the trustees are requested and authorized to fence the burying ground
and church, to be appraised as to value hereafter, by disinterested parties
chosen by the trustees. Owners of pews to be notified to come forward and
make their payments before the 1st October — also, that we petition the
Bishop of Quebec to send out a pious clergyman, we paying him £50
currency per year, and pro-vide him with a respectable parsonage house, (kc."
The repairs here mentioned were rendered necessary for the reason thskt
during the war the church was often used for an hospital, and that the fences
and other parts were burned or otherwise destroyed. We also find that
Mr. Leeming preached on Sunday morning; and that on August 25th, Mr.
Bethune " gave a sermon ;" and that on the flrst Sunday in the month, ia
the afternoon, Mr. Stuart was through here, and visited without preaching.
In Mr. Mittleberger's journal we afterwards find the following : — •
" June 1st, 1823. — Went to church and read the responses. Captain
Merritt read prayers, and Mr. Thomas Merritt gave a lengthy discourse, &c."
Thus we find that our subject was not unmindful of his duties as a
Christian, and when by his efforts on the canal, a large and prosperous popuU-
tion gathered in, by whose aid the old structure which had served its pur
pose so well, was replaced by a building of grander proportions, surrounded
by its fellows in a better locality, we can imagine his feelings when reverting
to other days gone bye. In his latter days he did not take an active part in
church matters, and as his entire efforts followed the bent of his peculiar
talents, he took a more Catholic view of many things — so that it cannot
but occur to the observer that the dii-action of his aims were more for tiie
benefit of his country and its people.
Before again resuming our account of the progi-ess of the canal, we think
that a brief view of the statistics of the Province will not be out of place,
as they serve to give an idea of the state of our prosperity : or, to use a

71
morchantile phrase, "what we were^ rated at" 50 years ago. In the
"York Almanac and Royal Calendar of Upper Canada, for the year 1825,"
published by Charles Fothergill, Esq,, printer to tho King's Most Excellent
Majesty, we find a great deal of useful information, and a comparison be
tween then and now may not be uninteresting to those who have not
watched the march of events : —
The Province being divided into twelve districts, we find that the
Eastern is valued at £182,990 — the assessment at £762.9.2, and the rate
1 penny. The Ottawa, £115.3.9. Johnstown, £187,388.15.6. Bathurst,
£85,045.7.6. Midland, £390,470, rate 1 penny. Newcastle, $115,911.10.
Home, £234,234.7, rate 1 penny. Town of York, £39,378, rate 1 penny.
Gore, £176,164, ratefjl penny. Niagara, £255,052.13.7. London, £209,
824, rate 1 penny. Western, £429.2.10, rate 1 penny, giving a grand
total of £1,969,074.13.11, with an average rate of assessment of ono penny
in the pound, not, we think, by any means, a " Groaning Tax."

18 2 5.
A letter dated 1 2th January, with a long statement of the canal pro
ceedings, and recounting his loneliness, was sent to Mrs. Merritt :
" I am solus. Eat at Chace's, and sleep in the office. The house is shut
up, and looks like a monastery. Canal meetings have been held here and
at Niagara." " I leave this early for the Tunnel. We are getting on well, aa tfca
weather is favourable. I attend one or two days in the week. W. Chaco
sends a shop up the first sleigliing. It is near 12 o'clock, my usual bed
time." He was not destined to see them this winter.
He writes, January 30th : — -
" We have been delayed in getting our shaft down for sorae time, and
there are indications ofthe abandonment of the tunnel scheme."
" Write by candle light, and going to tunnel again,"
The winter, so far, had been remarkably mild, so that for want of sleighing
he was compelled to relinquish his usual visit to MayviUe. On the 3rd of
February he left for York in a single sleigh. And in writing from there, to
his father-in-law, February 13, shows his opinion of this work:
" I have labored under a disadvantage, not having any persons of capital
for support. However, the company appointed me before I left home with
power to act as I thought proper. I have consequently changed the whole
scheme or system of our canal. The stockholders in New York write
¦constantly to keep in view sloop navigation."

72
" The Commissioners appointed by the Government for internal im
provements, laid out a seven foot canal from Grand River to Burlington, and
my great aim has been to turn their attention to this particular route for
sloop na-vigation."
" As thev do not understand, or scarcely have an idea of canaling, it is
absolutely necessary I should remain at the elbow of tbe membei-s until
the business is completed."
" I met them all here, submitted my plans, and they have given theur
entire approbation. The only thing that remains to be done, is to get the
act extended, and a loan."
" My arguments are, by making a sloop navigation large enough to adnut
any vessel on Lake Erie, we will draw the transit to New York through
our canal ; as a vessel can sail from any point on Lake Erie to Oswego, at
onoe," "Then comes the comparison of distances and prices, leaving $3. 50 per
ton in favor of the Canada route."
Closing the subject with this sublime sentiment: "I am sensible it
will not be as profitable for 20 or 30 years, as the other. But it will ha
a greater public good."
In another letter of 1 3th February, he says :
" The can.al is like monej' — hard to get, and hard to keep."
To write letters to Ms friends, or to address audiences on tho line of the
«anal, Mr. Merritt felt an easier matter than speaking to the House.
On 5th March Le writes Mrs. Merritt :
"Councillor Steward was heard at the bar of the House, in favour of
Niagara. I in reply, in favour of the Twelve Mile Creek. It was my ffi-st
attempt to express my sentiments before so formal a tribunal. I was con
vinced no person can speak well without practice, which I never had ; but
made up my mind not to be embai-rassed. I must confess, for the ffi-st
sentence or two, I was considerably agitated. However, they say I acquitted
myself better than the lawyer."
"Noticing s.:)i.;e of the members, the Attorney-General and Dr. Rolph
eclipsed tlie whole. They are on opposite sides of the House. Tliey are
both classically educated, with extraordinary talent, and display more of the
elegancies of langiiage than I ever heard."
Among his friends in high places at York, none took a warmer interest
and did all he could to assist and encourage him, than Dr. Strachan, then a
member of the LegiHlative Council ; not alone with Ms valuable patronage, but
giving him the advantages of his extensive and matured experience.
We see the first report drawn up during the long detention at York,
under the Doctor's eye takes a more comprehensive view of the enlarged
navigation, than any heretofore.
Tho following is extracted from a pamphlet for the interest of the
Etocklioldei-s, in 1S.02 .

73
" An able Report, which was published by order of the Board of
Directors, at the close of the year, is appended hereto, in order to show that
the comprehensive views then entertained, are now realized, as well as the
reason why the private Stock was not then subscribed, and the great lots
the Shareholders were subjected to in consequence.
The present Lord Bishop of Toronto, Dr. Strachan, who was then a mem'
ber of the Legislative Council, took a warm interest in this magnificent
undertaking, from the first, and did all that was in his power to assist and
encourage those who were labouring for its accomplishment.
As early as 1825, when the work was in its infancy, bitterly opposed
by some, and distrusted and thought lightly of by others, he drew up a
paper setting forth the inestimable advantages it must produce to the com
merce and agriculture ofthe country, and urging its accomplishment by every
effort, and at whatever cost. The Directors, partaking those sentiments
aad opinions, were happy to introduce, with his permission, his eloquent ap
peal into their Report ; and the paper I have last referred to, with the ex
ception of such passages as relate to the details of the Company's proceedings
contains Dr. Strachan's sentiments and his early views of the character and
objects of this great work, in his own language. They are introduced here
from a conviction that it will be no less gratifying to the venerable Prelate
than to his many friends, as well as interesting to the public, to observe how
clearly he predicted, when the company was struggling with its greatest
difficulties, the inevitable progi-ess and success of the noble work they were
engaged in, and the splendid results it must produce throughout a country
which forms a large portion of the globe. When he remarks, in language
which many at tha time may have thought extravagant, that the Welland
Canal will, in time, yield only in importance to the Canal which may here
after unite the Pacific -with the Atlantic ocean, through the Isthmuij, of
D-arien, it is interesting to reflect, that he was then contemplating a work
which, after a interval of twenty-six years, we now find engaging the at
tention of the business world on both continents."
April 10th, — ^" After having been here eight weeks, and the bill nearly
thtough, had to leave for Niagara to attend a meeting of directors ; when
a report was sent over by Mr. Hall, that the bottom of the Lake, opposite
the mouth of the Twelve v/as hard rock, and could not be made into a
harbour." i
He surveyed the harbour, and went back to his post in time to see the
bill triumphantly passed.
A meeting was held at York, immediately on the rising of the house,
14th April ; and as it turned out, was too cautious in reserving a large portion
of the stock for England, wMch we will see, v.^as an unfortunate resolve for
tbe immediate and easy completion of the eanal.
A very able document, bearing evidence of being prepared by Mr. Yates
OB the 17th of May, 1825, in favour of tMs locality, was sent to the Board,
who appear to have been then considering the route.
On the 10th of May, a paper -with Mr, Hall's report, inimical to the
Twelve route, was got up to be circulated amongst all the shareholders.

74
44 persons representing 170 shares, on which £18, Is. had been paid
principally from Niagara, withdrew their names between 11th May and 12tb
July, in consequence of the alteration ofthe route; 10 from other causes
representing 43 shares.
June 8th. — A letter from Mr. Merritt, on his return from New York, on
board steamer Utica, to Dr. J. Prendergast, details the concurring event*.
"I am pleased to have the satisfaction to acquaint you, that I have -
succeeded thus far in every particular. Our board of directors being fully
aware of the magnitude of the sum we had to raise, determined, that before
we entered into any contracts, the money should be procured. With this
view, I was sent to Montreal and Quebec, having to take in New York on
my return. $200,000 was apportioned for New York, and a like sum the
Upper and lx)wer Canada. 'The remaining $400,000 in London."
" The New Yorkers, my old stockholders, took at once $300,000, and
the whole would have been immediately subscribed in that place. If all ia
well, I shall reach home on the 12th, so as, on the 1st of July, to let out the
greater part of the canal on the enlarged plan."
A letter from Mrs. Menitt, who wrote shortly before, to her friends in
Chatauque, 4th July, says :
" The people began to flock here on Thursday, the greater part from; tbe
other side. Private families had to open their doors. About 200 strangers.
But 60 proposals given in. They all went off like a fog, and by suna^t, ,
yesterday, there was not a stranger in the place, except Mr. Dunn and Mr,
Boulton." In the midst of all this bustle, the inn-keeper, who had ^r\ed the public
»o long, passed away.
" Our old neighbour Paul Shipman died 25th June. Mr. Eastman
preached his funeral sermon."
Mr. Merritt, in a letter to Dr. Prenderga,st, in reference to the St.
La-vv^rence Caxals, says :
" Ari-angements ai-e making for a canal from Prescott to Montreal, of the
same dimen.sioiis as our own, whicli will add very much to the value of the
Province, as well as increase tho businf!Ss in our canal. I have no doubt it
-will be completed in 5 years from this time."
The Niagara opposition seems to have been put out, by relieving them of
the paying up of their stock, and we find them co-opei-ating in starting
another canal, — the St. Lawrence one.
From the G-'feffln€r of September 24th, 182?:
" At a respectable meeting of the inhabitants of the district of Niagara,
assembled at the Niagara Hotel on the 5th September, for the purpose of
taking into consideration, and adopting measures to obtain an immediete
survey ofthe River St. Lawrence.
" The Hon. Mr. Clark was called to the chair.
" William Hamilton Merritt, Esquire, officiated as Secretary.

76
" When it -was resolved. That this meeting having long witnessed
the vexation, delay, and heavy expense attending the navigation of the
St. Lawrence, between Montreal and Prescott, and being satisfied that a
perfect canal navigation can bo made between those places, at a moderate
expense, compared with the object of the undertaking — do recommend a
subscription to be opened immediately, in both Provinces, for the purpose
of employing a scientific and practical engineer or engineers, to explore that,
and make out an estimate of the expense of constructing a canal along the
banks of the St. Lawrence, or otherwise, as may prove most eligible, — in orSer
that the same may be laid before the. Legislature of the two provinces, at
the next session of their respective legislations."
York, Sept. 25th. — A letter to Mr. Merritt from their solicitor, on the
eve of his departure for England, for subscribers to the stock alluded to above,
in allusion to the expense of constructing a canal down the St. Lawrence, says:
" I have got a favourable account of the Petit nation River, which heads
about five or six miles back of Prescott, down which, I think, a canal can be
made : tMs should be examined. The place of commencement should be, in
my opinion, above Prescott, and up that to Petit nation, or else from
Johnstown."
H. J. Boultok.
It *ill be seen from the foregoing that Mr. Merritt Ipoked on this great
undertaking in a different way from many of his intimate friends. His was
no petty scheme intended only to benefit a particular locality. His broad
aiid expansive -vie-ws penetrated beyond his own profit ; as he well and
truly reasoned that the noble St. Lawrence, then, it might be said, flowing
almost idly into the ocean, was not placed there by the Great Maker for mere
ornament, but would eventually, become tributary to the powers of clever
iliBn, and bo the broad pathway to bear the golden products ofthe great West
to the millions of toilers, whose voices were raised in Europe for the cry of
chealp bread. Could those merchants in Montreal but see the results which
his idea brought about, and the change which they wrought on their suc-
efissors, what a wonderful picture would be presented to their imagination :
to behold a mere trading town gradually assume gigantic proportions, it*
streets lined with stately warehouses, and its docks become the pride of a
country, noble merchant-men and floating steam palaces throngin'g its har
bour, ready to carry to the ends of the earth the great staples so bounti
fully bestowed by nature on the boundless acres of tbe far west.
It is not our intention at present to enter into Mr. Merritt's connection
with the improvement of the St. Lawrence, suffice to say that he succeeded
in getting the work commenced ; as by the aid of the funds raised at the
Niagara meeting, Mr. Clowes and Mr. George Rykert were enabled to ba
sent down, and make a survey of the River banks, which act was the be
ginning of those great works afterwards undertaken to open a water way
round the rapids.

76
Tt is not to be concealed that the St. Lawrence canals had for a number
of years a formidable competition in the Ottawa Canal. The British Govern
ment this winter desiring the work for military purposes, offered the Province
a loan of £70,000 starling if they would undertake the work. It ia a matter
of history that they completed this work, the Rideau Canal, at their own ex
pense, thus postponing the improvement of the St. I awrence river, to which
¦the attention of our Parliament was continuously directed, and keeping
back the profits which the projectors of the Welland Canal naturally ex
pected from the extension of their scheme.
A letter from Ms friend. Dr. Rolph, dated Charlottville, 22nd October,
contains the following compliments to our subject :
" The mania for the improvement of navig-ation may be traced to you.
That is some apology for requesting you to use your infiuence in sending
Mr. Clews to survey the canal at Long Point. J. Rolph."
26th October. — The Board, at their last meeting in St. Catharines, hav
ing let the excavation from the Welland River to Ontario, gave to Messrs.
Beach, Ward, Hovey and Phelps the contract for the wooden locks and
waste weirs at £550 per lock. At the same meeting Messrs, Beach and
Keefer were awarded a gi-ant ofthe free use of the surplus water from the
first weir for a flour mill of four run of stone, to be ready on the opening
of the canal.
17th November. — Mr, Merritt left in stage for York. House met tbe
same day. The ball is opened.
Nov, 22nd, tha place of meeting for tha Board was changed to York,
owing to a majority of the directors residing there.
23rd November.— An article a]-ipeared, signed " A Friend- to Internal
Improvements." Noticing the various subjects of the petitioners against the canal, ono
again.st the new route, that the levels would produce sickness.
" I have been here four or five weeks. Petitioned for loan of |100,000
and remission of duties for canal uses, and amendment of act, so as to come
down Dick's Creek instead of the T\velve."
Among other opponents as petitioners, one individual, James (kirdon,
Mr. M.'s brother-in-law, petitioned to have the route changed, and sug
gested a line nearly in the new cut, across from Shaver's direct to tbe
mouth of the creek, instead of coming round by St. Catharines. The
ground of the petition, was, from the delay for obtaining the stock in Eng
land ; whereas, the stock was not obtained at all: and the $100,000 now
was, in a business point of view, unusually large foi -he assetts of tbe
company. He alludes to tha reports on those proceedings, of which 350 copies hav«
been printed. Alludes to the scarcity, and monetary depression, as caus
ing the failure to get stock in England.

77
The harvest this year -was an abundant one, and a general idea of im
provement seemed to pervade all classes ; business was good throughout
the country ; work on the canal was going on rapidly ; six hundred labour
ers were employed, and more wanted. It was expected that the whole line
would be under contract by Spring. The marked change along the
route was wonderful. Where the forest stood a short time ago, was now
a scene of life and bustle. The sharp rattle of the axes hewing and carving
their way through the old woods ; the unceasing hammering of the pick on.
the clayey banks, and occasionally the crash of a falling tree, mingling with
loud gunpowder explosions when a blast was discharged, all lent a charm to
the work wMch none enjoyed more than our subject, whose bu,sy brain
found ample swing ; now at ono place, now at another, superintending,
watching, settling disputes, arranging details. In fact, if ever man had his
" hands full," Mr. M. at this time had his. One hundred dwellings were
on the summit, occupied by mechanics, labourers, tailors, shoe-makers, store
keepers and others.
At the entrance of the Twelve Milo Creek, the works on the harbour
were inaugurated by tlio erection of a number of shanties, material collected
(fee., for the extensive works required at that place.

18 2 6.
One of the important events which occured during the year, was
the active part our subject took towards establishing a newspaper, the first
in St. Catharines, and the youngest of seven now being printed in tha
Province. In his account book we find the following entry, dated Dec. 1 9,
1825: Paid Proctor ife Swift's account.
For Hiram Leavenworth's type : - $153.7''.
Postage, ink, and paper : 40.50.
$194.23.
Jle was not forgetful of the valuable aid a good paper would be towards
hia canal scheme, as well as the benefits . it would confer on the locality —
although to Niagara belongs the credit of having established the first news
paper in the Province. This sheet was called the " Upper Canada Gazette,''
and was started in 1793, and continued to be supported in the district until
the Parliament moved to York, whence it was transferred. Another paper
was started by the notorious Joe Wilcox, and again after the war of 1812,
was succeeded by the " Spectator," already mentioned in connection with
Mr. Thomas Merritt's financial difficulties. The " Spectatm-" was eventually
succeeded by the " Gleaner," which, so far, had been the organ on c»nftl affairs.

78
One great object Mr. Merritt had in -view when he assisted in establisMng
the newspaper in St. Catharines entitled the "Fa/rmer'sJowmal, and Welhmd
Camal Intelligencer, was to circulate general useful information around the
country. In the address to the public, it states ; — "Our principal object
will be to publish a correct and accurate statement, from time to time of all
interesting and important matters relative to the Welland Canal, which i«
now rapidly progressing under the most favourable auspices: to endeavour to
the utmost of our limited talent, to draw the public attention to
the splendid plans now in embryo, for the improvement of general navigation
in this colony : to awaken a spirit of inquiry and enterprise in regard to
canals and other improvements of -vital importance to our prosperity and
happiness : and to develope by every proper means, the various resources of
this fertile land we live in."
This paper, ushered into the world in the most unpretending manner
was eminently successful. It was well printed — so accurate, that an error
was very seldom detected, either in spelling or dictation. It was Mr
Leavenworth's pride to be considered tho bast printer in the country. It
fully maintained its credit, and supplied the farmers -with every information
collected from the mOst reliable sources.
We have, so far, refrained from mentiomng some of the petty
slanders with which our subject was assailed during his earlier struggles
towards the accomplishment of this great national work, and would not refer
to them now, were it not to show that in the midst of all his trouble and
excitement, he was not forgetful of any of his honest and honourable
obligations. It will be remembered that some years previously, the failure
of Ms business, when in partnership with BIr. Ingersoll, left him heavily
involved to parties with whom he done business, in Montreal ; and tbe
following letters received from his old creditors, conclusively shews that
neither the thoughts of dishonesty nor pecuniary aggrandizement possessed
hi-Ln at at.y period during his connection with the caiie.l; for, ii at .my time
of his indentification with this v,-ork, ha needed prcycrty or money, it wa.s
at this period,— when every fair resort was tried to obtain funds 'for tbo
accomplishment ofthe undertakino-; " Montreal, April Gth, 182G.
" Deak Sm :— Your letter of the 22nd contained a deed of 100 acres of
land in Zorra, and we had previously received deeds for 400 acres We
therefore enclose your bond, and in doing so, we feel it is incunibent on ua
to say, that this voluntary act on your part, is highly creditable to you and
assures us that if you contmuo to bo successful, which we sincerely hope will
be ae case the remaming part of tho promises conveyed to us in your letter
of March 24th, will m due time be fulfilled.
Yours trulyj
W. H. Menitt. Gillespie, Mofpat, k Co."

79 " Montreal, 8th May, 1825.
" Dear Sik :— Wo duly received your favour of the 16th March with
deed for 400 acres in Blenheim, which we accept of in full satisfaction of
the deduction made from our claim on the late firm of Ingersoll & Merritt
Forsyth 4& Co."
W. H. Memtt.
It is necessary to state that the most of these lands were f ranted to Mr
Merritt's family for services in the Revolutionary war. Mr. T. Merritt re
ceiving as his share, 2,000 acres. The lands had by this time so increased
in value that they were considered an equivalent for a cash amount.
Mr. Clowes remained in Montreal, and obtained occupation from the
Government, as we see by a letter from Major Hillier, Governor's Secretary,
to the Welland Canal Board. Mr. Rykert retumed, and found employment
in surveying the lands for right of way. The St. Lawrence survey was not
entirely abandoned, as the work was continued by Mr. Clowes and others.
Mr. Merritt at this time was in receipt of a communication relative to a canal
from the Bay of Fundy to the St. Lawrence. Engineers were employed to
examine this route also. As a sample of the public tone at this time, the
following article from tho Canadian Freeman is worth noticing :
" For our part, we would wish to see canals intersecting every part of
this Province : and as the few enterprising individuals who are embarked
in the Welland Canal line have commenced this good work, we hope it will
be continued." During February the work was pushed on with great energy, as tho
season was favourable.
After seeing the amended act fairly under way, Mr. Merritt returned
to attend to the prosecution of the canrd business. The circumstances of
tbe Board having their meetings in York, rendered his stay a short one.
Before setting out however, he makes a careful memorandum of details
necessary for their information. From one before us headed for tha first
meeting in Febraary, we extraet :
" There are 27|- acies in the deep cut — consisting of over 1\ millions
of yards of excavating. It will cost 23 mills per yard, laid at tho shortest
distance — equal to £04,000."
Memorandum :
" Speak to Vice-President Allen on the mail-stage routes. And,
touching on a very delicate subject, by which powerful patrons might be
easily propitiated or ofl'ended — to decide on the names of various places on
the canal,"
At this meeting which ho attended, it was resolved that not any part of
the loan of £25,000 could be touched, according to the act — and that 25
per cent be raised from the present subscribers. In order to accomplish this,
and to make personal explanations to the shareholders, he set out in the

80
middle of February for New York, travelling by stage. He arrived there
on the 21st, when it was agreed to pay 8 per cent a month of the stock sub
scribed, in order to carry on the works as rapidly as possible.
On the 3rd of April, the annual election of *he Directors took place
at St. Catharines. CoL J. Clark and Hon. J. B. Robinson were appointed,
and shortly afterwards (May 9th) Mr. Merritt paid a -visit to Albany, and
•procured documents and plans of the Erie Canal. In an interview which
he had at this time with the Governor, De Witt Clinton, that genfieman
made the following remark to Mr. Merritt, which, we think, was highly com
plimentary to our subject: "You have physical advantages on your side, bull
you want men of enterprise, like yourself, to cany them through. ''
On the 6th of May, H. E., the Lieutenant Governor, and several diree-
fcors visited the works on the canal, — and the Governor expressed his
high gratification at the progress of the works. As an instance of the im
provement the canal was making on its surroundings, we find an advertise
ment in tho " Journal" of May 3rd, offering 50 village lots for sale in the
flourishing village of St. Catharines.
On the 7th of June, we .see a notice that Mt. Chace, Mr. M.'s successor
in the salt works, had made marked improvement in that line ; and amongst
other things had fitted up a bathing establishment, where hot or cold salt
water baths could be obtained, which it was believed would be of <Teat
benefit to invalids, and would eventually become a public resort as famous
as the Spas of Europe.
On the 22nd, an important meeting was held in York, to devise ways
and means for earring on the work, and Mr. Yates was instructed to procure
a. loan of £30,000 or £40,000 in New York.
On the 1st of July, tho opening of the Burlington Bay Canal, in pre
sence of tha Lieutenant Governor and first dignitaries of the country, took
place. The Governor passed through in an open boat, and was received
at Sherman's wharf by a guard of honour, under Col. Crooks, and two Regi
ments of the Gore Militia, attended by the Band ofthe 70th Regiment from
York. This was the first public celebration to commemorate the opening
of any public work in this province— soon to be followed by others of far
greater magnitude. A steamboat was also nmning from -Buffalo to
Chippewa. Mr. Merritt's application for mail accommodation on the line of the
canal now begins to come into operation; and we notice the advertisements
of letters from the Thorold P. O., J. Keefer, Esq., P. M. From thence to
St, Catharines a somi- weekly mail was canied, and proved a <Teat boon to
the people. '^
In August, the arbitrators who were to settle the vexed question of the
vabiation of the land on tlie route were appointed.

81
Mr. Merritt's memorandum for 20th June, states that he visited
every person whose lands were wanted on the route, and received their
offers for a settlement. Yet, afterwards, there were many dissatisfied at
ha-^ing the canal pass through their farms, and they held a meeting at
Beaverdams, favouring the route by the Twenty Mile' Creek, Niagara, or
any other place but that along the " Twelve.'' The arbitration was held in
the old Shipman Tavern, then kept by a man named Jakes — and for a month
or two during the warm season, this place was the scene of much excitement.
Tliere were 27 cases in dispute. The award for Mr. Menitt and his
father was £600 for 7 or 8 acres of land and the mills. As respects their
other lands, to the amount of 9|^ acres, the advantages of the canal were
equivalent to the lands proposed to be taken. Of the twenty-five arbitrators
appointed to try the cases, but one is now living, Mr. Henry Mittleberger,
of St. Catharines, whose warm interest in this undertaking we have noticed
in extracts from his journal. The land actually arbitrated on amounted to
323 acres in all.
Two of the contractors, Hovey and Ward, had given up their contract fui-
the deep cut. After this period nearly all local opposition ceased.
In other parts of Canada, things were beginning to move. Two steamers
were placed on the Ottawa and Lachine route, and six more were plying
on Lakes Ontario and Erie, The works on the canal were often visited by
the curious, and a mama for canalling seemed to possess the people. Mr.
Merritt was daily in receipt of letters from difterent parts of the country,
about various canal schemes, &c. On the 27th of October, the Board met
at the " Deep Cut. " Mr. Yates inspected the whole line, having previously
obtained £25,000 in New York. In their rei)ort of this meeting, the
following minute appears : — " The Directors have gi-eit pleasure on this
occasion in expressing their full approbation to these whose attentions have
been [unremitting, cfec."
Owing to the numerous gatherings which canal matters produced in this
locality, Mr. Menitt determined on moving from his old residence ; .and as
it was more from necessity than choice, he advertised his dwelling for a
tavem, which was accepted by Luther Dyer, whose practice in this business
in Buffalo, made him a suitable tenant. The mail stages already alluded to,
of which this became the station, were owned and managed by E. W. Ste
phenson, from the same place.
Our subject and his family removed on the 10th of Novemboi- to his
father's residence, now the cottage at Spriugbank, where he remained until
the completion of his own " Oak Hill Mansion," on the canal bank, three
years -afterwards.
The census ofthe town taken at this time, gave the place 400 inhabitants.
Our recollections ai-e that a considerable village then existed. The opposite

side of St. Paul Street, beyond Chace's, was occupied by Reach's hat shop,
J. F. Mittleberger, watchmaker, Richard Fitzgerald's store, now occupied
by the 2'imcs printing office ; McKenny's residence, Yale & Waters' tin
shop, Sanderson's blacksmith shop, Grenville's grocery, and widow Stuart's
residence, terminating with " big " J. Wright's tavern. On the other side
skirting the pines beyond Shipman's barn, was Ward's saddlery, Captain
Ditterick's hotel aud butcher shop, Elias Adams, Foi-est, Dr. Moore's, and
the Glenns. On Ontario street, Lyman Parsons' pottery, Rufus Wright;
Anderson's, Thomas Merritt's and George Adams's beyond ; opposite wa,s
old Mrs. Lawrence, Mrs. Shipman, with whom resided E. W. Stephenson
and family; and his last memories were the excavations going on in the gras,s
plot fronting the churcli, for the site of the large frame building known as the
Merchant's Block, in wliic-b afterwards was the Welland CJanal Office, and
Leavenworth's piinting office.
Of all the new coniei-s to St. Liatharines, Co'eamodore Northrup ^vas tbe
greatest acquisition to the plact.-, in his own peealiar line. He with Mi-s.
N. and au only daughter, Elizabeth, coming here in 1821. The Commodore
being employed in the Bolivian service, made occasional cruise.s in the Gulf
of Mexico, and at each time of his i-eturii to St. Catluu-ine,'-;, was in posses
sion of a respectable .share of the "needful." Privateer, buccaneer or commo
dore, his role among us was to spend money. His turn-outs ^vere the best,
his dinners the finest, and his social qualities nnboiuided, of which tbe
author has often been a recipient.
One oircumstance about him we remember, while i-esiJing at what,
became afterwards the Merchant's Hotel. The^liorses which the Commodore
used in his family earriage became resti^¦Q and ran oft' down the 12 mile
hill, and when the animals and the dchri!< of the vehicle ^vere recovered and
brought back, he ordered them away, saying he never would drive tbem
again. It was no matter of surprise that the vehicle wa:s given to the finder,
as on a former occasion we have known kim to hand his daughter a bill
for playing a tune on the jnano for the amusement of his- guests. When
the dam at the harbour had converted the 12 mile creek into a m-'niature
lake, and the works there being an object of attraction, the author has fre
quently witnessed the spirited style of the Commodore's turn-out on the ice.
The way of conducting Munici})al elections in those days were not as
excitmg a,s at present, and the only address we can find to the electors of
Grantham, is one headed "Self Nomination," and signed by Job Northrop;
promising faithfully to fulfil the important duties of Pathm aster, should the
free and independent electors choose him for that position.
The same individual, previously wishing to have the fourth concession
opened along his property, asked the magistrates to assemble at tbe
"Corners," whence, after a soeial glass, and discussing the road question,

drove them over the locality, when no further ceremony was needed, and the
mag-istrates declared the road open.
The Commodore finding the excitement attbrded by tha prospect of the
speedy opening of the eanal, sufficient inducement to remain here, advertised
Ms farm, commenced building the house now owned by John L. Ranney,
moved one of his out-houses up for a store, started a forwarding company, of
which the keel of the pioneer ve.ssel was laid, just below the site of his new
residence. The holidays were spent by Mr. Merritt in his attendance at the Board
in York, a final meeting for the year being held there on the 28th December.
On the 30th of November was held the first annual celebration to com-
.memorate the anni\-ersary of the canal. A public dinner was held in the
hotel, which was numerously attended. Speeches were made, loyal and
patriotic toasts were drank, and the event honoured in a style which would
do credit to more modern assemblies. The Jov.rmd of Dec. 1826, in refer
ring to the demonstration says : —
¦* * * " Notwithstanding all those discouragements, it
Jias been pi-osecuted with untiring vigour, and the success which has attended
the efforts of the little band of patiiots in the cause of theii- country's wel
fare, who planned and matured the scheme, must be unexpected and aston
ishing to themselves ; and although it is a sad annoyance to a few, yet, it will
undoubtedly eventually greatly redound to the credit and honor of all con
cerned, as well as the Province at large."
The Annual Report ofthe (,'anal Company, dated 1.8th December, 1826,
states :
''' Amongst other items, the}' ai-e grateful to the Government for their
grant of 13,000 acres of laud in Waiiitteet, lying on both sides of tho canal
extension to the (irarid River. Also, that up to this time a lump sum of
f!2i)0,000 had been spent ou the works, for which the following results are
given : The first section which commenced at the Welland River, (now Port
Robinson) was completed, to the extent of 33 chains, with tow-path, and
water let in, and presented a fair specimen of the work when finished.
Upwards of one and a half million of cubic yards of e.arth had been removed,
and ten miles of the canal finished. The greater part of the timber for
locks, and material, was got out, and in readiness for use, and several of
the contraotoi-s were already considerably ahead of their contract woi'k,
owing to the extraordinary zeal with which the contractors pushed on the
undertaking. .$6,000 in claims for land had been paid. £60,000 would
yet be required to finish the deep cut."
On the 5th of December, Parliament assembled, and in the Governor's
speech, referring to the Welland Canal, places it second to the Rideau,
but saying in its commendation :
" Although we owe it to the enterprise of private individuals, I most
strongly recommend it to your favour and protection."
This was not a mere compliment, as the Governor had always personally-
taken a warm interest in the progress of the Welland Canal.

84
Another ve-ry opportune circumstance also occured at this time, in the
fact that it was now known by a dispatch from Col. Hillier, that the Im
perial Government had given a grant to the Welland Canal Company, of
£16,000 sterling.
At this time, our old friend Dr. Beadle went to York, and succeeded in getting
the contract for twenty years, to convey the mails from Queenston to Sandwich,
which proved a profitable undertaking, and which was known for many years
afterwards as being under the conduct of W. A. Stephenson. A Mr. Wilkin
son, who left for Brantford, was a partner.
On the 14th of September, in this year, occurred an event which caused a
profound sensation throughout this country and the United States. The facts
known at this time were, tliat an individual known as Col. W. Morgan, a citizen
of the States, had written a book purporting to be an expose of Freemasonry,
and shortly afterwards the author suddenly disappeared. The newspapers at
the time were full of stories, soma of them very sensational in reference to
Jlorgan ; and it was even stated that one of the Brants of Wellington Square,
and several other prominent Masons in Canada and the United States had con-
pired, a^d captured Morgan, confined him in N. Y. State, on a trumped up
charge, and afterwards conveyed him to Fort Niag.ara, from whence they tran
sported him out into the lake and drowned him. It is needless to say that the
gentlemen charged with the commission of the crime strenuously denied tbe
i aplication. The results however were that two strong parties sprung up,
known as Masons and Anti-Masons. To the latter side our subject became
allied, and ever afterwards he was known to be opposed to secret societies,
under every form and guise.
Among the general transactions of this period, was the re-establishment of
tha Colonial Advocate, by Mr. Wm. Lyon McKenzie, it having been stopped
by throwing all his lypa into the bay. He collected $1,500 as damages.
As Ottawa has become an important place as the seat of Government
for united Canada, the ceremony for the commencing of the Rideau Canal,
will be given.
On the 24th of September, .Lord Dalhousie and suit arrived at tbe
Chaudiere, proceeded to P. Wright's, Esq.; when, on the 27th, accompamed
by Captain By, amidst a large concourse of gentlemen from the sunoun
ding settlements, laid the foundation stone, as commencement of the
Rideau Canal. After the ceremony of laying the foundation stone was
completed, his lordship, lady and suit departed in a barge rowed by
fourteen oarsmen, on their return to Quebec.
November 1st. — It is stated in the Montreal Herald that £20,000,000
had appropriated for fortifications in Canada.
A party of engineers, in the general plan of fortificr.tion, was sent to
survey the Chataugue.

85
As noticed, tbe House met, and Mr. Merritt, not now in the Board of
Managers, whose duty made it necessary that his presence should mostly be
on the works, had ho-vvover to visit York, and attend the Board meetings and
other business iu the interest oi the Company. The loss of bis friend and
adviser Archdeacon Strachan, whose interest in the rising generation had caused
his temporary absence to England, in order to raise funds for tho founding of
a University, was more than mado up by the presence of the Honourable J. B.
Yates, of Chittenango, N. Y., who resided in York, and attended the House.
A petition having been presented by the Welland Canal Co. for the Govern
ment's assistance, asking them to take a part in tho undertaking, and one from
Niagara asking for a lateral cut — a. committee was appointed to investigate the
subjects, Mr. Yates addressed a letter to Arch, McLean, the chairman of this
committee, and also gave his verbal testimony before the same, in which he
gives a galoulation that the work will pay interest by carrying the products at
'$1 50 per ton, for 50,000 Canadians — and that the Oswego Canal, now under
way, would be the means of accomodating many more from the other side,
besides adding to the value of vessel property, by giving them two or more
lakes to navigate. The ideas of Mr. Yates were based upon known estimates
in connection with the Erie Canal, and so convincing te the* committee were
tbey, that they recommended Parliament to take stock in the canal to the
amount of $200,000; but still, from the unreasonable condition ofthe arrange
ment, it amounted to nothing more than a loan, as the company were bound to
pay interest on the same, as well as the previous sum advanced.
1827.
At the termination of the session on the 13th February, a meeting of
the Directors was held, and a resolution was passed authorizing Mr. Merritt
to proceed to Quebec, for which £125 was voted, with a petition from the
Uoard to the Parliament of Lower Canada, praying that that body would assist
the Company by becoming subscribers, as it would be an equal benefit to the
ports in their Province. Another resolution commisioned him, in conjunction
'with Mr. Yates, if unsuccessful, to have the balance procured in New York.
Arriving in Quebec on the 23rd of February, he spent the time intervening
until the opening of the House on the 2nd of March, seeing the different
members of the Government, and explaining the prospecJts and progress of the
Company's works. In this interval he writes home :
" I have been introduced to moet of the members. P>ery person says it
is a loss of time to say one word to Jean Baptiste, as he will not give us a
dollar. I, however, have strong hopes, and one week will determine the
measure, &c."
He also was the bearer of a dispatch from Sir P. Maitland to Lord Dalhousie,
tbe Governor and Chief, at Quebec, on the same subject— which His Excellency
laid before the House by message. A bill was immediately brought before
the House, authorizing a grant of £25,000, which was passed through all its

86
branches. Mr, Merritt arrived home, by way of Albany,' on the 19th MarcBj,
making the most expeditious and successful journey in connection with the-
canal yet recorded.
In the annual meeting, which was held at St, Catharines on 2nd April,
the Hon. Col. Wells took the place of Vice-President x^len, and J. H. Boulton
that of Mr. W. H. Merritt, who was now acting as Agent. Several meetings
were afterwards held along the lino, and at one of them it was resolved : that
the office of the Company be removed to St. Catharines, and that James Black
be appointed resident secretary — salary £200. And that an office be built
here for the agent, secretary, and engineer, by contract — Mr. Merritt agreeing
to pay for the same at any time they may choose to relinquish it.
In the Spring of 1827, a letter from Mrs. Merritt, says :
" There have been a great many people here. Every house is crowded
with two or more families. Building is going on."
Mr. Gordon left, finally, with his son — the only remaining member of
his family, after twenty years so-journ in this country. They returned to-
Edinburgh, where his son James received a finished education for the
medical profession ; passiiig a creditable examination at the expense of his.
health, which ultimately caused his premature death, at Paris, in 1836,
much regretted by his friends in St. Catharines and elsewhere. Mi'. Gordon
afterwards lived in London, where he died in 1846.
The people of Fonthill are perhaps not aware of the inipoj-tance their
position once held in the thoughts of the country's rulers at this time.
On the 25th of July, R. H. Bonnycastle, R. N. Commander at Kingston,,
writes to Mr. Merritt :
" I have suggested to the Home Government the practicability of a
canal from yours to the Sliort Hills, either by Ball's Valley to Beckitt's
Mills, or, above the Deep Cut."
Beginning late in the season, under the energetic direction of the eon-
tractor, Mr. 0, S. Phelps, the works on the deep cut had been pushed on
with unexampled speed. The wet weather setting in early, it was aban
doned for the season.
One of the institutions seemingly necessary on the works, was an indi-
-vidual who %ures amongst others a.s the " grog-man." We are not aware
that in these days of boasted enlightenment such a phrase ever occurs in
the reports or estimates of any great public work ; but as the word fre
quently appears on the old pay-list of the canal, we conclude that the un
precedented amount of work daily accomplished was in some measure stim
ulated by this important personage.
Against the opinion of the President and Directors, Mr. Merritt advo
cated strongly the undertaking of the canal directly to Port Maitland.
TMs idea coining before the present one was finishec;, caused some coninio-

87
tion in the Board, but was a fortunate matter, as without it the canal
would have to be abandoned, owing to the many land slips which occured
in the deep cut in the next fall.
Mr. Merritt's argument for the feeder now is, that coming in at one end
there will be a fall the whole way, — as, by throwing a dam over the
Chippewa, we can have deep watei-. We have placed our towing path
above the surface for this purpose. As this deepening is not likely to take
place for years : it is not advisable to publish it now, by encouraging vessels
to be built with a larger draught than eight feet."
On the 1 2th of September, notices were given for nine miles excavation,
between the forks of the Welland and Broad Creek — to be finished by the
1st of October, 1828. The contract was taken by Moij.son, Simpson, ife Co.,
on the 3rd of (October, who advertised for 1,000 hands, which were readily
supplied from the deep cut works, now idle. The idea of this work extended
beyond the Welland, or scheme of connecting the two lakes — as his thoughts
were now turned to another scheme, viz: the improvement of the Grand
River, which he commenced by opening a correspondence with the leading
men of the section of country about to be benefitted. This correspondence,
which we have in our possession, shews that Mr. Merritt wished to be fully
in possession of all facts of interest in reference to the country affected. A
series of leading questions on trade, productions, agriculture, etc., &c., were
proposed to be answered, and from which a reliable data could be got, were
expected. Also, requesting them to i-aise subscriptions to have the route
regularly surveyed, as was the case with the plans of the Welland and St,
Lawrence. The progress ofthe St, Lawrence extension during this year is given in
the report of Messrs, Clowes ife Rykert, to the Govemor, in whose service
Mr. Clowes, as intimated, had been since the 9th of J une. These plans in
cluded two sizes for the canal — four, and eight feet ; and aftei- giving the
engineering particulars of each route to the L. C. line, he sums up by saying
that it is highly gratifying to state, for the information of His Excellency
and othersv that the advantages for the canalization of tha St, l-awrence,
far exceeded our most sanguine expectations. And although making this
statement, we see by a letter to Mr. Merritt, from, Kingston, dated 30tli of
January, he had left the St. Lawrence. The report contained in several
places favourable notices of the Rideau Canal. Mr. Clowes had found
employment more profitable than that of his early patrons in Niagara,
in the rival project of the Ottawa.
In Mr. Merritt's property, alluded to in church matters, was left a space
for an educational establishment ; and on April 25th, a general meeting was
held in St. Catharines, for the purpose of building an academy, on it,
which was attended by tbe leading gentry of the neighbouihood. Dr.

88
Beadle occupied the chair, and Henry Mittleberger, Esq., acted as secretary—
when, a building to cost $4,000 was agreed upon, to be paid for by shares
of $10 each. .$1,350 was subscribed on tbe spot, and a committee formed to
collect the balance. The b\iilding was the first superior .institution of
learning in this part of the Province, preceeding the Bishop's College at
Toronto, for which he obtained from the Government assistance to the
amount of 100,000 acres of land,
A meeting in Brantford was advertised in the Gore Gur:ette, on the 15tb
December, and was well attended ; Mr, Merritt making his explanations iu
reference to the Grand River improvements.
Without waiting, however, for action to be taken on this, and the
season being late, he sent up Mr. Cusack as engineer to survey the route.
A letter, from Mr. Grant, of Ancaster, on the 16th of October, advocates
that the survey should extend to Gait, &c.
On the 8th of October, a letter was received from Mr. Whitehead of
Burford, in which he states :
'' I feel sanguine in the improvements of the Grand River idea, after
the plan suggested by you. A few influential individuals that I have con
versed with, are desirous to undertake it, but want to know what is the
expense for levelling and surveying a route from where the Welland Canal
enters the Grand River, to Brantford."
" I will immediately set up a subscription to defray preliminary ex
penses.'' And in another letter, he says :
" I have not been as successful in raising money as I anticipated, &c,''
We are not aware that any money was raised at this time, but Mr.
Cusack the engineer died soon afterwards, and we find the following amongst
Mr. Merritt's memorandas, from his widow :
" Mrs, Cusack has requested me to apply to you for the amount due to
her late husband for surveying the Grand River."
A. long letter from J. D. Norton, Black Rock, was also received tMs
year, relative to tha disposal of Gypsum, shewing how extensive were his
plans for the developement of the resourses of the country.
A letter was received from the President on the 24th of December, in
which he says :
" I hope you will have everything ready for the Report by the time I
write you to come over : it shall be as spon as Mr. Peter RoMnson makes
his appearance. We can do nothing till he comes."
On returmng from Brantford, ' Mr. Merritt met with a very serious
accident, caused by the upsetting of the coach in which he was travelling,
between St. Catharines and Hamilton. The shock he received was
sufficient to confine him to Ms bed for some days, and from which he did
not recover before his journey to England, which was undertaken soon after.

89
18 2 8:
On the 12th of January, 1828, a meeting opposed to tha proposed Grand
River route, was held in Ancaster ; the idea entertained by those present,
being, that a canal from that river to Hamilton, and even from the head
waters of the Thames, would be the correct thing. Twelve lone resolutions
were passed, and it afterwards being found that the summit cutting on t)ie
proposed route would be one hundred feet, and deeper than the deep cut
on the tha Welland Canal, the idea was abandoned, and we believe nevei'
afterwards mentioned — at least if Mr. Capreol's scheme migjit be con.sidered
a similaj- one.
As tlie whole work on the canal is now under way, it was found
absolutely necessary to raise more funds. The balance still on hand
amounted to £39,00(S, and it was found that more than double that sum
would be required to finish the work. An effort was to be made again to
obtain the $200,000 reserved for England.
During the series of Board meetings held in york, commencing on the
21st of January, that on tha 14th Febniary contains a financial statement
from Mr. Merritt, by which he says :
" No embarrassment for want of funds will be felt until the 1st of
August, before which time some means must be devised t® obtain £50,000
for the remainder of the season."
He also proposed five different schemes towards raising this amount : —
1st. — To enlarge the eapital another £100,000. 2nd. — To endeavour to sell
stock, or effect a loan in the United States. 3rd. — To send an agent to
England to obtain the one ninth promised on the enlarged capital. 4th. —
To endeavour to sell stock there. 5tli. — Or endeavour to affect a loan.
The Board were at the end of their invention. To enlarge the capital at
present was a useless measure, as the New York stocklioklers having im
plied, nothing more could be expected from that quarter. But another trial
was to be made, and the agent once more, with discretionary powers, wassent
do-wn to see if money could be obtained. The sanding to England was the
last thing, but who was to be the ambassador 1 Mr. Merritt's readiness to
do anytMng for the canal, they knew. To a Colonist, a free trip to the
old country is the great object of his life. Ho always looks to going home,
and a policy that will culminate of being comeiissioned there, is considered
worthy of a life's energy.
But it was hardly expeeted that Mr. Merritt would undertake the task.
From the expressions of surprise, after his success, by the President ; " Indi
vidually, I must thank you for the success of your mission, which is more
them I expected." Had not every envoy failed, already ; and had, they not

90
agents in England of groat wealth and almost unbounded influence with
the Home Government in (_'anadian affairs, while Mr. Meritt, with all his
zeal for the canal, was without influence to raise the necessary funds.
We will not say what influence this natural feeling may have had for
our subject, on this his first voyage. In the absence of any testimony to
the contrary, we must call it a " self appointment."
We know he refused a lucrative comviiiKsion at another time, and always
avoided trips for pleasure.
Under these circumstances, M r. Merritt again visited the United Sfcites,
going by way of Kingston and Sackett's harbour to Philadelphia, where,
consulting S. Girard, he returned to New York. While there, he stayed
with Mr. Yates, and induced that gentleman to become security for .$-10,000
— sufficient to carry on the work for a time. Not being able to accomphsh
the full object of his mis.sion in New York, and after waiting until the last
moment, he finally decided to go iiersonally to England — and his journey
thence, with his observations, successes, Ae., will be found in his journal
and correspondence, which is here copied,
" Left home on Tuesday, the 26th day of February, 1828, in a sleigh —
the snow having fallen the day before. Pai<l Mr. Stevenson $2, instead of
$1.50, the regular fare to Stoney Creek. From thence, went in another
sleigh over the beach to Hopkins ; thence, same night, to Corey's. My side
extremely painful at times ; sudden thumps of the sleigh, alnicst in
supportable." " 27th. — Into York at 10 o'clock. It having rained bard during the
night, most of the snow disappeared. Called on Attornejf-General, Major
Hill, Dunn & Bolton. Met in the evening at Mr. Drew's. No business
transacted, or preparations made."
" 28tb, Thursday. — Quite unwell yesterday and to-day, from efiects of
my upset. Procured from Major Hill a letter to Commodore Barrie. Made
other preparations to leave in the morning ; and have the necessary papers,
(not now prepared,) sent on by Mr. Proudfoot. He leaves for England on
Monday', which gives me a few days longer in America, to make an attempt
to either get the money by loan, or dispose of the stock."
'[ 29th, Friday.— Left York at 2 o'clock, with J. Jones, P. McGill, and
J. George. Went 40 miles : the sleighing passable, snow having fallen the
day previous."
" 1st March, Saturday. — Travelled to Meyer's (!reek, — about 80 miles.
My side improving daily."
" Sunday, 2nd March. — \Vent to Bath, 40 miles, to breakfast. Arrived
in Kingston about one or two o'clock."
" Monday, 3rd. — Called early on Commodore Ba.rry ; made every
ari-angement with him. Saw Captain Bonnycastle and Lieutenant-Colonel
Smith, Royal Engineers. Left Kingston at half-past three. Crossed to
Navy or Grand Island with a sh.Mgh and horses. More snow yesterday.
This island is seven niilgs long. From thence, crossed to Gravelly Point
in a boat. Sometimes boat drawn on ice, and sometimes in water ; being
neitlier one thing or tlie other. Cirossing, hired Miijor-Genei-al Benedict,

01
who was in tbe town selling sheep, to carry me out to Brownsville for $2.
He was a thorough Universalist, and Jackson man. Luckily arrived a few
minutes before the stage, which came from Sackett's harbour.
"Sunday, 4th — Got in, and reached Utica,
" Monday, 5th. — Arrived at Albany : stopped at the hotel opposite Skin
ner's. " Tuesday, 6th. — Called on Messrs. Young, Seymour, Bank, Willkson,
<5tc., 4^c. Took passage on board steamboat at four o'clock — very much
crowded. A poor unfortunate gentleman died on board; the passengers
playing cards, all unconcerned, (as most of us generally are in this world
at the misfortunes of others.)
" 7th. — Arrived at New York at eight. Stopped at the Franklin
Hotel on Broadway. Breakfasted, and then went with Mr. Yates to his
residence, 112 Greenwich Street. Mr. Mills, the engineer, whom I met
often before, came from Utica with me. The pain in side improving daily.
" 8th. — Left New York in the Union Line, for Philadelphia, at half-
past ten, for the purpose of interesting Mr. Gerard in our project if possi
ble. Steamboat to Brunswick — a delightful excur.sion. Stages through
New Jersey to Trenton, 28 miles, where we slept.
" Sunday, 9 th March. — After a good night's rest, embarked on board
the Trenton steamboat for Philadelphia, where we arrived at eleven o'clock,
after another pleasant sail on the Delaware, which divides the two states.
Examined the water works on the Schuylkill, which are the most perfect of
the kind in America, Am prepossessed rather against than in favour of the
place, which falls far short of my anticipations.
" Monday, 10th. — Called on J. B. Robinson, Esq., the British Consul,
and wrote a letter to Mr. Gerard, explaining the object, to which he puts
his veto at once ; in consequence of which we retumed to New York. Em
barked at twelve o'clock in steamboat, and arrived in New York at eleven,
the following morning.
" Tuesday, 11th— Made my flrst application to Prim &, Co., who rejected
it at once — " would have nothing to do with it."
" Wednesday, 12th. — Called a meeting of stockholders, who were pleased
with the situation of the work. Messrs. Yates and Mclntjjre came forward
and not only agreed to pay up the remaing shares, but advance $40,000
more, to be replaced in England by letter to Mr. Merritt.
"Thursday. 13th, — Called on Jacob Astor, a German, who thinks well
of it, " Friday, 14th. — Made a number of attempts in various quarters, but
with very little success,
"Saturday, 15th. — Having made ap})lication to a noted Frenchman
German and Quaker — closed with a Jew, agent of Rothchild, to whom J
addressed the following letter :
Messrs. Phillips & Co.
Gentle.\!EN : —
" You will notice by looking over the map of the United States and
Canada, that the Welland Canal, the plans and profiles of which were shewn
you this day, unites Lakes Erie and Ontario, by ship navigation, thereby
connecting the greatest extent of navigable waters in the world, in the
shortest distance, and with the least expense. I am prepared to prove, and
any person in the city knowing the geography of that country, will inform

92
you of tbe same, that the Ohio Canal, which connects that river with Erie,^yill
bring all the products of the country, above St. Louis, to Lake Erie ; which
Lake will pJso receive the products of Michigan, that part of Pensyh'ania
aud New York bordering, and the western part of Canada. Further, when
the products of that western country are afloat on Lake Erie, they will pass
through the Welland Canal if destined either for this or tha Montreal
market. As you suggested, I will call on Messrs. Rowland & Co. in London ;
and I will thank you to forward there whatever information you may think
fit on the subject. There has been expended on this work $700,000. There
remains only .$100,000 to be taken up — but you have not time to decide on
this before the packet sails. " W. H. M." ,
"Sunday, 16th March.— Left New York. Sunday is a day mariners
appear to select for putting to sea. It happened however to fall, in our case,
on the regular day for sailing. The Florida, Capt. Tinoolm, is tha good ship
in which I am at present. There are four lady passengers — Mrs. and Miss
Ruse, Miss Meyers, and the captain's wife. Nine gentlemen — Mr. Proudfoot,
and Mr. Cameron, from Canada ; Mr. Walker, from Sarnia; Reese, of Liver
pool ; Mr. Ciuin, of Nashville; Mr. Ireland, and three others for England.
We had a fair wind on leaving the harbour, about eleven o'clock. Discharged
the pilot off Sandy Hook, at one ; and in the evening was out of sight of
land. Passed a great number of ships at anchor, just arrived, and some
still under way and beating up. About four, observed a ship 'heaving to,'
for purpose of speaking us :'bore down. She wanted to enquire what 'land-
a-head.' Proved to be a ship from the Sandwich Islands, Pacific Ocean.
One cannot but sympathize in the good feelings and joy a sailor must ex
perience in sight of land, after a voyage of two or three years from his native
land. She was bound for Nantucket, laden with oil — where she must have
arrived the next day, as the wind shifted to the eastwai-d.
" On Monday and Tuesday, 17th and 18th, a heavy blow from N. E.
¦ All the passengers except three Cjuite sick.
"On Wednesday and Thursday, 19th and 20th, wind dead ahead.
" Friday, 21st, 3 P.M. — We had come into Lat. 37. -i : 5. — Crossing the
Gulf Stream at 6 : 7. — Put about, and found ourselves in the middle of it, by
an observation on Thursday afternoon.
" Saturday, 22nd. — About 450 miles from New York. Last night the
wind .shifted at three o'clock : in the morning, blew hard, and rained. Wind,
N. \ij E. — our course, E. S. E. A heavy head sea. Ship goiiig at 8i knots.
The sea appears delightful, although we are tossing at a great rate. Many
sick. Myself not well,
"Sunday, 23rd March. — The wind continues favourable. Still a heavy
sea ; but on the whole, pleasant.
" Monday, 24th. — The wind hauled around somewhat unfavourably last
night. Rain again this morning. Studding sails displayed, as yesterday.
" Tuesday, 25th. — Commenced overhauling papers. Calm last night,
and this day. Yesterday, was in Lat. 40.21. Long. 49.25. Dull sailing,
althou.gh pleasant weather.
"Wednesday, 26th. — Had a light breeze from the southward. Increased,
and hauled around to the west. Tha sea smooth, and the weather fine.
Ship going at the rate of nine knots. All in good health and spirits.
" Thui-sday, 27t.h. — The wind continues fair. Have made rapid progress
for the last 24 hours. We commenced playing whist last night : tMs with

93
reading or writing, forms the only amusement, or means of occupyino- time.
Lat. 39, long. 43. — wMch brings us on the European map, or eastern half of
the Atlantic.
Before closing the map of America, he casts a retro.^pective glance over
its expansive territory, spying out its facilities for water communication to
the seaboard, and thence to the old world.
Memorandum — The distances and prices of freight from the commence
ment of the Ohio Canal at Sciota in Ohio, by the Mississippi to Now York
3,800 mUes, $19 per ton, in 27 days. To Lake Erie, 940 miles, for $19| in
18 days. Thus it will be seen that the exports can be made Vi ith a similar expense
in twq-thirds of the time. The merchandise for the supply of this southern
country was brought, before any canal was built, by land from Philadelphia.
There is a prospect, that as far down as Cairo, and up the tributaries, the
Ohio included, up the Alleghany Mountains, must be supplied b)- the lakes
of the vv-est of course.
I received much valuable information of the southorn country from my
fellow-passengers. One of the advantages of the northei-n route, is the
salubrity of the climate. When the St. Lawrence canal is fimshed this ad
vantage, as well as cheapness of freight, will be in favour of tnat route.
" Friday, 28th. — As we are about approaching England, the geography
of which I understand very imperfectly, I have commenced this day in ex
amining the map, and the principal situation of towns in Great Britain.
The first land we are likely to approach is Ireland, which is situated on th©
left of the Channel. Cape Clear appears the point generally noticed.
Our course is up St. George's Channel, passing Cork, Wexford, &.c. This
last place, ¦with Millford Haven, opposite, on the south side of the sea which
divides or separates Ireland from England.
" Did not sleep one hour last night, or the night before. Was quite un
well yesterday, but feel much better to-d%. The pain in my side is lessen
ing very much. After dinner we were called on deck to sea two " water
spouts," to the north. It was blowing fresh, and occasionally -squally.
'There was nothing remarkable in their appearance mora than the appearance
of a thick dense mist rising from the ocean to a cloud, and mo-ving along
in a body in the dii-ection of the wind, from west to east. The mate pro
nounced it a " waterspout," and said that ha saw one in the Pacific Ocean
which took up empty barrels to a great height. However, this proved iio-
thiag more or less than a passing cloud of mist, as w.e frequently see on land.
" Saturday, 29th. — We passed a barque tliis day, standing to the eastward
— the weather very rough, and perhaps we were 80 or 100 yards apart : the
sight is cheering and pleasant ; although tliere would be no possibility of
boarding each other. All cheerful and pleasant. The wind fair. Going
at the rate of nine or ten knots an hour. Remembered Saturday night at sea."
"Sunday, 30th. — This is the 14th day, or one fortnight since we left
New York. We have been most highly favoured -with fair winds and fine
weather, for which we should be grateful to the Almighty. , The weather
ladld, but wet. Wind still fair. Lat 47, Long. 26.

94
"Tuesday, April 1st.— Passed the ship " Rohin-IIood," of Boston. Six
days out from Liverpool, bound for New York. Report the " Florida " all
well. By this, tidings will reach home, I tnist, of our safety thus far.
" Wednesday, 2nd April, — No observation yesterday. The wind lulled
€,dm. Came on from the eastward with a, gentle breeze and some rain. All
the passengers in great glee, expecting a favourable and short voyage. This
somewhat dampens their spiiiits. We have reason to be satisfied for the
long continuance of favourable weather and fair wind this year, and should
not expect at this season its continuance throughout the voyage. No observa
tion yesterday or to-day. The east winds same — cold and unpleasant.
" Thursday, 3 April. — The wind still continues from the eastward very
light, and no appearances of a change. We are driven far to the northward
of our course, heading towards Norway iibout 250 or 300 miles from the
western coa.st of Ireland.
" ' Zimmei-mans's. Lovers,' and ' Carter's Travels,' fonn a [)art of our
library, and ' Bi» Hale's Travels.'
" Friday, 4th — This day o'otained a;i observation : find ourselves in Lat.
52. 30. Long. 15, and some minutes directly op[>osite the to^wn of Limerick,
on the Shannon. Quite calm. Still have made no direct [>rogress for the
last three days.
"April 5th. — Clear. 180 miles from Cape Clear. \\''inil fail-.
'-Sunday, 6th. — Called up at 5, to see Cape Clear lighthouse, when within
15 miles, passing at a safe distance the furthest rock on the reef of the
Cape. We bore toward.-i land. Tliis part of the coa.st is mountainous.
Made Kinsale bead, near where the Albion was wrecked. We came close
enough to see the green fields, which were enclosed with stone fences. The
Emerald isle, at this part of the coast, does not present the vivid grandeur
which I expected. It -was with no little feeling of pleasure my eyes gazed
on the land of my ancestors : and the country to me presented a similar ap
pearance to that of the East rive)-, which was the liome of my ancestors
in America." He closes Sunday with pious reflections and grateful expressions towards
the Almighty, that He has thus rendered the voyage so safe a,nd pleasant.
The passage was not yet over," but the many dangers of the Irish Sea
was yet to be encountered, more than now for the lack of steam. But
great precautions were taken during the voyage.
His observations in the city of Liverpool may be passed, as the improve
ments there have made it another place since then. But the journey up to
London we will learn from a letter to Dr. J. Prendero-ast :
To Doctor Jedediah Prendergast. London, 4t,h Mav, 1828.
My Dear Sir :
I have taken a few moments this morning to give you a detail of this
to me, wonderful country. '
I was prepared to' meet great splendours and extreme misery I have
found everything so different from what I expected. From Liverpool to
London, 208 miles, I rode on the outside of a coach— passed a number of
manufacturing towns— examined every place as far as my efl' would reach •

9-5
saw nothing but [leace, j)lenty good hurriour, and not au individual who had
not good clothing and shoes. Mot very few travellers, except in coaches.
The whole country, with some exceptions, belongs to noblemen, and ex
tensive proprietoi-s. There is not one yaril of eartli not cultivated, to all
appearance, as well a.t our gardens ; even round the salt works, which we
passed. Tha people are industrious to a degree, and taking all things into
consideration, perhaps for this country no better system can be adopted for
the division of property — although it would never answer for America, I
was ten days in London before I met a drunken person. There is les» of
this vice in the population of 1,500,000 people in this city than in one of
our intelligent villages. I was prepared to meet reserve in the extreme,
and even insolence, and was advised not to appear as a stranger. I have
found every- disposition to be communicative and inquisitive, in some cases
exceding any Jonathan I ever met -with ; and when I mentioned being a
stranger, which I always gave as my apology for inquisitiveness, I was
treated with double attention. The capacity of a man, here, is confined to
his partioular bu.siness or duty, wholly unlike our population. You can ob
tain nij information on any local subject with which they are not engaged.
I have scarcely heard an oath in the whole country. Cleanliness and neat
ness in every cottage is remarkably conspicuous. Noticed but one window
not cleaned, Ae. My opinion of the British Government is, thfit tha
Ministry manage all the homo concerns, their (solonies, and j^ay attention^
to foreign relations. To preserve what tliey ha-ve is quite sufficient, and i
the subject of their most anxious attention. Everything is divided into de
partmonts. The colonial ofiice has our business, with that of other colonics
The membei-s of Parliament ajqiear to be tbe gioiitest fags. They have the
most arduous labourbi to perform. It is they who govern the kingdom.
There is an investigation going on in Parliament respecting the Govej-n-
ment of Canada. I believe their unexampled success is owing to a fi.-ced
rule, to adopt a measure, aud decide upon it from pi-inei})le alone. The
public offices are open from one utill five, daily. Pleasure is indisjiensible
¦«d1;h them — good living is the g-ieate.st enjoyment. Dinner l.-ists from
twelve untill two, &c."
"4th. — Sent Dr. Prendergast a letter.
5th. — Called upon Chancellor, who appointed Tuesday. .Returned and
wrote letters to the ollicials, separately.
6tli. — No interview.
7th.— Ditto.
8th.— Ditto.
9th. — Called daily, and am put olf on some pretence or other, either real
or imaginary, all the same to me. Wrote homo of my success thus far, by
Cameron, who was. returning home by next packet.
11th, Sunday. — Attended ' Sidmouth Chapel and Magdalene Asylum.
12th. — Called upon Chancellor. Put ofi' till next day.
13th. — Went back, and wrote Mr. Goulborne, Huskinson, and Hay,
stating the necessities of the Company ; and on account of Mr Cameron's de
parture, urging an immediate decision. At half-past five this afternoon, I
received a letter from Mr. Goulborne.
14th. — Which I sent immediately to Mr. Cameron, along with letters
to Mr. Dunn and Yates, who fortunately received them before the sailing
of the packet. '

96
16th.— Drew out a statement of the progress of the canal, and after a
number of attempts succeeded in getting it inserted in the Times."
In reference to this entry, we think the circumstances connected there
with worth relating, as our subject used to tell repeatedly a rather laugh
able anecdote on the same.
It seems that Mr. Merritt always had a great opinion ofthe power ofthe
press, — but p.articularly so when in England, where the Times, then as now,
was the leading organ of public opinion. He repeatedly sought an inter
view -with the editor, for the purpose of explaining his scheme, but was
always put off with the excuse of " being too busy just now."' At last he
determined to bring the matter to a crisis — and when the usual answer was
given, our subject replied by stating that he could describe the whole affair
in five mimdes. The editor immediately puUed out Ms watch, saying,
" Now, as you are a man of business, I -will give you that time." Mr. M.
at once drew his map from his pocket, and spreading it before the editor,
in a, short and concise manner exclaimed :
" Here is Lake Erie — here is the Falls of Niagara — this is Lake Ontario
 and this, the St. Lawrence, and the Atlantic : and here is the route of
the great Welland Canal."
Immediately closing the map, and ending the interview. The astonish
ment of the editor may be better imagined than described. Yet, in tbe
next issue of the paper the article appeared, and had a marked effect upon
the success of his scheme, as evinced by a number of congratulatory letters
afterwards received.
17th. — Visited Mr. Bliss, a legal and literary gentleman, ofthe Inner
Temple, who took stock, and helped by correcting and assisting in the pub
lications for the English public.
18th. — At Church at Holborn, with Mr. Sabine and aimable family.
19th to 21st. — Spent in printing and conecting the statement.
22nd. — Went to the Epsom races : was pleased with all but the gambling.'
23rd, 24th, 25th. — Writing letters.
26th.— -Visited his friends Major Glegg and Gen. Vincent.
The remainder of this month was spent in calling on the notabilities of
London, both in and out of Parliament, and distributing Ms pamphlets, ex
plaining his scheme, &c, — when an unexpected occurence happened, which
was likely to impede his negotiations with the Government — namely, a
change of ministry, which occured on the 28th of May.
June 8th, — Wrote to Mr. McQueen, editor of the Gla^goiv Courier. I
had no satisfaction at calling at the Colonial Office.
9th. — Called on Mr. Grant, who promised assistance.
14th. — Wrote to the President of the Canal Co. Made an excursion
to St. Albans, to an agricultural show. The fields crowded with labourers,
women, and children, busy making hay. A beautiful red lilly in the fields
took my -attention. St. Albans is a place of great antiquity. The abbey
is one of the largest in England.- The borough sends two members to
Parliament. Lord Verulam has an estate close by. Returned in a Leeds

97
coach. This is the third time I have passed from St. Albans to London,
each time by a new road.
June 16th.. — Returned, expecting the Welland Canal business to be
brought before the house. Paid half-a-crown for a seat in the gallery
There are six or eight reporters here, busily engaged in taking notes.
18th. — Called on the Chancellors. Still in suspense.
19th. — Went into the city. Saw a representation of the battle of
Waterloo, of which this is the anniversary.
21st.— To Mill Hill.
23rd. — Returned to London. Wrote to the Chancellor after seeing the
Attorney-General's letter.
24th. — Was summoned before the Canada Committee. [Mr. Merrit's
evidence throws so much light on the commercial and political interests of
the province at the time, though at the expense of a somewhat lengthy
digi-essiion, that we insert it in full.]

Extract frovi Report of Select Committee on the Civil Gouerrm'int of Canada.
Are you a native of Upper Canada ? — I am.
' 1 i proprietor in that Province ? — Yes.
To what causes do you attribute the difference in the value of land in Upper
Canada and in the State of New York ? — The principal cause is in the present
boundary line or division of the country, which excludes us from the adyan-
tages we should derive by participating in the commercial wealth ofthe country,
and enabling us to improve its internal communications. Lands in Upper
Canada are not one-fourth of the value they are in the State of New York, and
real property not one-tenth.
To what particular districts of country do you allude ? — 1 allude to the
whole extent of both provinces, with the exception of 150 miles on the St.
Lawrence in Upper Canada, between the boundary line and King.5ton ; in this
distance we possess equal advantages in our interna! communications, and
property is equally valuable on either side, according to its local situation.
Will you point out some particular part of Upper Canada to which your
observations apply ? — From Kingston upward ; particularly on Lake Erie, or
above the Niagara River.
In what way does the want of a sea-port town affect the value of land in
Upper Canada? — By excluding us from any participation in its wealth. The
capital of all countries centres in its cities; for instance, the wealth of the State
of New York centres in the city of New York, and the wealth of Upper Canada
centres in Montreal : they bring a portion of that wealth back from New York
to improve the country, by building mills, making roads, canals, &c., &c., in
' consequence of which, to,gether with the cheapness, facility, and regularity in
their communications, they can employ capital once a month during the navi
gable part of the year, in converting grain into flour, and sending it to market.
Wheat always brings a better price with them, although the market niay be
better with us at Montreal than with them at New York : this has a tendency
to make property more valuable, and to change hands readily ;' whereas, with
us there is not a single instance of a Montreal or Lower Canada merchant ever
expending a farthing in Upper Canada. It is true that they possess large
tracts of land in that Province, which they have been under the necessity of
taking in payments of bad debts, but never lay out Is. in improving them for

98
the general advantage of the country. We have not five flouring mills which
can be considered mercantile within sixty miles of the Niagara frontier, while
the States people have upwards of fifty; the consequence is, while wheat always ,
commands cash with them, it can only be bartered with us, and instead of once
a month, we cannot employ capital in purchasing grain to make a remittance
oftener than once a year. Property is merely nominal, it cannot be^ turned
into money. We think by possessing a sea-port, we would improve the interior:
make it an object for inilividuals to invest money, create business, produce an
entire change, and place ourselves in full as good a situation as oar neighbours.
If a merchant in Montreal had capital to dispose of, and had an opportunity.
of employing it advantageously in Upper Canada, would he be prevented from
doing so by the circumstance of the territory lying under a different jurisdic
tion ? — No ; but we know Upper Canada is not now in a situation to have capi
tal advantageously amployed, and we think it never will as long as that un
natural territorial line exists. Almost every British merchant, for years past,
has been dissatisfied with the country ; and a great portion of the capital ac-
eumulated in Blontreal has been sent either to this country or the United
States. We hope to place it in a situation to induce the inhabitants to look
forward with a view of making Canada their permanent residence, and produce
a favourable change even in this feeling.
Is it solely with the view to the probable return of capital into the country
that is amassed at Montreal that you recommend this measure, or is it with a
view to any commercial object? — It is with a view to the general interests of
the country in every respect, the accessioa of both ca/tital and credit, that port
would give us, would enable us at once to set ahout the improvement of the
St. Lawrtn-r, by fMowlng tlie example of the State of New York. Within
three years we would make a sea-coast of all those u2]per lakes, and possess
nearly the same natural advantages over the U. S. people, in our access to tbe
ocean, we did before the completion of their canal, relie've ourselves from paying a-
taxof £4. 10s. sterling per ton on all our imports, £1. 4s. on our exports : save
the country from £100,000 to £200,000 per annum ; materially promote the
agricultural and commercial interest of that country, as well as the mercantOe,
manufacturing and shipping interest of this, and enhance the value of all
property fully equal to what it now is in the state of New York.
Then your complaint is that the xlssembly of Lower Canada does not im
prove Montreal as you would improve it? — Our complaint is not with respect
to the city of Montreal, but the whole country ; the improving of one part will
benefit the remainder; they have only one general interest.
Is your complaint, then, that the Assembly of Lower Canada does not
meet you in improving the navigation of the St. Lawrence between Montreal
and your limits ? — When we see a neighbouring state, without the aid of any ^
revenue from foreign commerce, or duties on imports of any description for its
own use, connect Lake Erie with the Hudson, from Buffalo, Lake Ontario
from Oswego, and Lake Champlain from White Hall, by canals ; to construct
which they had to ascend high summits and surmount the most formidable
obstacles ; while the natural outlets of all those lakes are in the St. Lawrence,
and could have been connected with the ocean in Canada by a steam-boat or
ship canal, for one-fourth of the money it required to construct their boat-
canals, we have reason to think there has been at least a very great want of
attention to the subject. At the same time I have much satisfaction in
stating that the Legislature of Lower Canada contributed to the connection

of Lakes Erie and Ontario by taking stock to the amount of 25,0001. in the
We Hand Canal Company, and manifested at the time the best disposition to
promote any useful improvement, and many individual members since then
iiave xpressed their readiness to assist ia the improvement of the St. Law
rence, although it is not reasonable to suppose on general.principles the people
of Lower Canada can feel the same interest in improving the country above
them as those who have to pay, for every barrel of flour they send to Montreal,
¦one-third of its value for freight, and on our heavy and most useful articles
from Montreal, one-half the amount of its cost. I will mention a case in point
to prove this. Every member from the city of New York opposed the appro
priation of money for the construction of the Erie canal; it was carried by the
influence and number of the western members, who felt the same interest in
the undertaking we do in this ; and although it has proved equally beneficial
to the city, they would not have had a canal to this day if the state had been
divided or separated as we are in Upper and Lower Canada above Mont
real. '
How can a line which only separates two jurisdictions prove such an insur
mountable barrier to the wealth of Upper Canada ? — The reason is simply this :
Upper Canada cannot participate in the commercial wealth and advantages
¦of a sea-port. It is the same as it viould be in the state of New York if there
was a line drawn across the state above Albany, and it was laid out into two
separate states; the upper could not participate in the wealth of New York,
and would remain poor. The main cause of the prosperity of that state is in
having capital returned from the city, and the Legislature possessing power to
eommand the credit and capital ofthe whole for the mutual benefit. So satis
fied are they that their boundaries could not "be bettered, that with all their
propensity to change and to try experiments, no man ever dreams of catting
the state into two parts ; they change the constitution ; cut up into counties,
and create as many new offices as they can, but the natural boundaries of the
state remain untouched, although their population is about 2,000,000, Every
state in the union, where an angle can by possibility be run to the ocean, pos
sesses a sea -port; and it so happens that the money to eff:ct the internal im
provements in those states is always provided in those very cities from internal
resources. When we see two countries lying side by side, as the weiit.ern part
ef the state of New York and Upper Canada, possessing equal advantages in
soil and climate, and find the one increase in the most astonishing manner while
thcother, comparatively speaking, remains stationary, our attention is naturally
drawn to discover the true cause. The whole country, within near 300 miles
of the Niagara river, 46 years since was a perfect wilderness. Our side of the
Niagara frontier settled and improved full as fast as theirs until the late war,
since which their rapid increase has taken place. They borrowed 9,000,000 of
dollars on the credit of their state, constructed their canal, added 100,000,000
of dollars to the state by the increase in the value of property. The tolls now
pay the interest of the-money, and will redeem the principal in a few years. It
is impossible to conceive the effect opening those communications produces in
a new country unless they are witnessed. This is the true cause of their pros
perity, -which they could not have effected without the aid of the city of Ne-w
York; and I maintain we only want the city of Montreal to enable us to produc)
similar results on a much greater and more beneficial scale.
Do you contemplate as necessary for the attainment of that object the
union of the two provinces, or do you think that your object would be sufficient-

100
ly attained, if the division of Upper Canada were to extend as low as Montreal?
— I think that wonld be sufficient without a union.
Do you conceive that such a division would answer all the purposes of com
mercial intercourse, and would be more advantageous than an incorporation of
the two provinces into one? — I think that ultimately a union would be more
advantageous, but we would avoid all the difficulties that the people of Upper
Canada anticipate if a union was to take place : they think they would be under
the influence of a majority in Lower Canada,
Would it be possible to make such a geographical division of the provinces by
running a line down the river Ottawa, and then passing south and west of Mon
treal, so as to include in the upper province none of the seigneuries of the
lower province ? — No ; it would not : there are four or five small seigneuries
between Slontreal and the present boundary line.
Supposing a similar line were run from La Prairie, on the other side, to the
river Richelieu; are there any seigneuries south and west of such a line? — ^Yes,
there are four or five.
Is not a great proportion of tha English population in Lower Canada
included in the town and seigniory or island of Montreal ? — Yes.
Do you conceive that a majority of the property and wealth of the town
of Slontreal is in the hands of the English or of the French Canadians? — The
numbers are in favor of the French, but I should think the commercial pro
perty is in favor of the English.
Were not the whole of the seigneurial rights of Montreal in the hands
of the seminary? — Yes, I understand they were, but the Government had a
claim to them.
Are you aware that the Government have come to an agreement by which
they have in their power those original seignieurial rights, with the intention
of making a mutation of the tenure? — No, I was not aware that they had.
Would tbe commercial object of the Upper Province be answered by an
nexing Montreal to itl — Yes.
In what way can goods be carried to Montreal ? — Any vessel of 400 tons
can go direct from this to Montreal ; and, as I before mentioned, although the
distance is 3,200 miles, the freight is only £1 23. 6d. per ton ; -whereas tbe
next 400 miles it is £6 12s. 9d.
Do you think, if you had the town of Montreal as a port of entry, you
-would be able to control your own imports and levy your own duties t — Yes,
without any difficulty.
Without interfering in any manner with the province of Lower Canada ? —
Yes ; the inhabitants of each country should be allowed to purchase freely in
the other.
Supposing a vessel bound for Upper Canada were to pass through the St.
Lawrence, and no duties were to be collected on her at Quebec, would it not
be possible for her, in her passage up the St. Lawrence, to smuggle those goods
into Lower Canada for consumption there? — They could not smuggle into
Lower Canada between Quebec and Montreal with any greater facility than
they can now smuggle between Quebec and Anticosti. There is no smuggling
now, that I am aware of; and it would be much against the interest of this
country, as well as Canada, to put on such high duties as would tempt smug
gling. 'We are not, and should not be put on a footing, or considered, as two
foreign nation.s with separate interests. A manifesto, or clearance, is put on

101
fcoard the vessel in this country ; they would enter at Quebec or at Montreal,
as tbey pleased.
Do you object to the arrangement that has been made -with regard to the
division of the duties between the upper and lower province? — No: 1 do not
think the division of duties important : it is of very little consequence to the
general prosperity of the country, whether a few pounds, more or less, are
paid either to Lower or Upper Canada ; their general interest is, or rather
should be, the same. I am warranted in my opinion respecting the effect of
tluties, by witnessing their proceedings in the State of New York, from which
I draw my references, She derives no particular advantage from the revenue
¦ot her imports ; they are exclusively under the control of the general govern
ment ; still, she is enabled to appropriate large sums annually for education ;
pays her civil list, and accomplishes the most extensive internal improvements,
without any aid from the general government ; while we, with a revenue of
£900,000 per annum, cannot pay even our civil list. The principal object and
the greatest advantage the provinces will derive by the accession of Montreal to
Upper Canada, is, that by placing the internal wealth of the country at her
own disposal, she will be enabled to appropriate a portion of that wealth in the
improvement of the interior, and make the country rich enough to defray its
own internal expenses, and not depend wholly on taxing British commerce for
every local purpose.
Do you apprehend that there would be any serious objection, on the
part of the French Canadians of Montreal, to be transferred to the upper
province'! — I cannot say. My own opinion is, if they had an opportunity
to compare their present situation, with the advantages they must derive
by the change, they would not; and I know that every man in Upper Canada
would be in favour of it.
Do you think it would be just to introduce among that population a new
law, with all its incidents ? — I do not see the necessity for altering^ the law
as it at present stands. The French law, I have no doubt, would be gradually
altered, as changes, might seem advantageous. If the accession takes place,
they would rapidly become English, if we can judge from the result at New
Orleans : and as this state of things, from our local situation must take place,
I think it just and politic to bring it about as soon as possible, that we may
be one people.
It has been stated by some of the witnesses before this Committee, that
it would be easy in practice to establish such a system of custom-house regu
lations, at the present point of division between the two provinces, as to
enable the inhabitants of Upper Canada to impose what taxes they please
upon goods coming into that province, and to le-vy them without any danger
¦of smuggling from the lower province, in case of any variation of duty be
tween the two provinces ; is it your opinion that that would be a practicable
arrangement 1 — No : I think it quite impracticable.
Will you state why you think so ? — There are many reasons. If a temp
tation was offered for smuggling, it could not be resisted : for instance, in
the -winter the country is covered with snow, and they could go into Upper
Canada whenever they pleased : they might enter in various ways, by boats,
sleighs, waggons, dec, as they formerly .smuggled between the United States
and Canada.
What is the extent of the frontier, between Upper and Lower Canada,
throughout which smuggling might be canied on ? — Many miles, from St.

102
Regis, opposite Cornwall, near the whole length of Lake St. Francis, thence
along the boundary to the river Ottawa, and so on all the line of that river.
Supposing Montreal was the port of entry in the upper province, what
would prevent smuggling from the upper province into the lower pro-vince ?
— There would be no necessity for that. The inhabitants of Lower Canada
might go and buy from the port of Montreal, and the inhabitants of Upper
Canada might go and buy from the port of Quebec, the same as they do now.
They pay no duty on crossing the line between Montreal and Upper Canada..
Supposing an inequality of duty in the two provinces, and that no
article were to pay a less duty in Upper Canada than it paid in Lower
Canada, what would thera be to prevent that article from being smuggled
into Lower Canada in consequence of that inferiority of duty 1 — If either
province were impolitic enough to put a higher duty on any one article than
was paid in the other provinces, the consequence would be that everybody
would go and buy in the place where it was the lowest ; but, as I have be
fore mentioned, thera should be no second duty after "goods are once landed,
either at the port of Quebec or Montreal.
Supposing that Lower Canada imposed a duty on rum, and that the
Upper Province imposed no duty upon rum, would it not be tho interest of
the inhabitants of the Lower Province to buy their rum in Montreal, and
to bring it into consumption in the Lower Province 1 — It would.
Do you suppose it possible that there should be different scales of duties
in the two Canadas under any circumstances? — I do not. The duties at
present are regulated by the 'Trade Acts ; and if a much higher duty on any
one article were imposed, it would prove injurious to ourselves as well as to
the grower or manufacturer. For instance, rum, coffee, sugar, to bur West
India colonies, who receive our flour in exchange, and on goods to the
manufacturer here. The cheaper these can bo introduced into Canada, the
more will be disposed of, and we will obtain a much greater revan-ue from
lower duties than from' high ones. If Lower and Upper Canada were two-
distinct countries, with separate interests, like the United States and Can
ada, some restrictive measures, in crossing the boundary line, would be
necessary ; as they are, it is not.
You are aware that by the schedule of the Trade Act in 1824 and 1825
various duties were imposed upon articles which might be imported from
the United States into the two Canadas : do you conceive that in Upper
Canada the payment of those duties is avoided in consequence of the diffi
culty of preventing smuggling 1 — Not in general ; there may be some articles
smuggled in consequence of the duties upon them being too Mgh, but in
general they are not.
Mention the articles upon which you conceive smuggling to take place.
— I cannot mention any particular articles.
Are you of opinion that, in consequence of the nature of the frontier
between tha United States and Upper Canada, it never would be practicable
to enforce the payment of duties upon articles which can be afforded cheaper
from the United States to Upper Canada than from England, inoludinc the
expense of freight ? — No, I think not ; if you place a higher duty upon
articles from the United States than will pay the expense of risk, they will
smuggle them in, and it will be impossible to prevent it. For instance, the-

103
whole of Upper Canada was supplied with tea from the United States be
fore the India Company sent their ships to Quebec direct, although the
article was prohibited altogether. Now the tables are turned, the U. S. peo
ple will be supplied through Canada with British manufactures, because
we take less duty than they do ; they will smuggle one hundred to one
more than we do. The British manufactures will be sent in by the St.
.Lawrence, and if we improve the facilities they will be can-ied to the re
motest part of Upper Canada, and they will be smuggled in great quantities
into the United States along that line.
What is the law that prevails with respect to personal property in Upper
Canada ?- — The same as here.
Does it differ in any way from the administration of the law, as to per
sonal property in Lower Canada ? — I am not acquainted with the adminis
tration of the law in Lower Canada.
Is there, or is there not, any difference with respect to the law of personal
property in Upper Canada %.nd in Lower Canada 1 — I cannot say.
Can you inform the Committee how far the English law of descent
prevails in Upper Canada ? has it been modified by local statute ? — It has
not ; a bill was passed in the Lower House, but not in the Upper.
Can you inform the Committee of the modification which that bill pro
posed ? — It was making a certain distribution of the property when a person
died intestate, but I do not know exactly what the division was.
With respect to the law of mortgage in that colony, can you state pi-e-
cisely how that law stands ? — A mortgage is given as a security upon
property; any person can foreclose it and sell it.
Is money, in point of fact, lent upon the security of mortgage 1 — It is.
Is there a general system of registration ? — Yes, the registration is very
simple : each county has a registry office ; if a person wants to buy property
he goes and pays Is, fid. and he finds immediately whether it is incumbered
or not ;. for if the person had incumbered it and not registered it, the person
who bought it and registered it would hold it.
Then all mortgages must be registered in order to be effectual 1 — Yes,
everything affecting the conveyance of land.
is that system found to work well? — It is universally approved of;
there is not a person in the country that does not feel the a<lvantage of it.
Do you know in what form marriage settlements are drawn ? — There
are no marriage settlements there that I know of ; it is very seldom that
any thing of the kind is entered into.
Is there any system of entail of property ? — No.
How do they provide for widows ? — They get one-third at the death of
the husband ; they are entitled to dower according to the English law.
Do they get one-third both of all the original landed property of the
husband, and of all after acquired land ? — Of all he has at the time of his
death ; if he sells any property, she bars her dower on the deed.
Can you state what is the prevailing practice in willing ? is it the prac
tice to make an eldest son as it is called, or to leave the property equally
distributed ? — That depends altogether upon the -wish of the person.
Have you known instances of both ? — No ; if a person does not wish to
divide his property, he does not make a will^ because it then goes to his
eldest son.

104
"Which is the more frequent occurrence of the two ? — The general prac
tice is to make wills.
Do you conceive that the American settlers who have settled in Upper
Canada are attached to the laws of Upper Canada, or that they have a
preference for the laws of the United States ? — I think they are decidedly
¦attached to the laws of Upper Canada, which are very similar to those of
the United States. The inhabitants of Upper Canada are more attached to'
the present form of government than they are to that of the United States.
They gave the most con-vincing proof of it by their conduct during the late
war, at the commencement of which there was but one regiment of regii-
laa soldiers on the whole frontier between Kingston and Sand-wich.
The country was repeatedly invaded during tho year, and to its inhabitants
as then composed, is its defence during that period principally to be ascribed.
Those people were admitted into Canada on the most liberal principles be
fore the war, and the most impolitic and injuri(^us measure the Government
of this country ever adopted was in excluding them since. Many people,
to my certain loiowledge, sold their property in the state of New York,
where they were dissatisfied with paying heavy taxes for the support of
what they conceived an unjust war, -with a -view of settling in Upper Can
ada, came to the frontier, found a restriction, and proceeded on with their
capital to the state of Ohio, to the unexampled increase of that state. We
most materially contribute to the very great injury of Upper Canada, and
the depreciation in value of property. The U. S, people are the most useful
and enterprising people which can settle a new country ; and their principle
is to defend the country they live in, not the one of their birth, and many
who had not settled in Canada one year were as faithful to it as any native.
However loyal the general chararter of the American settlers might have
been, were there not some exceptions ? — Yes : there were a few ; but full as
many amoag Europeans, in proportion to their number.
Are you a native of Upper Canada ? — I am not a native of it. My
father was an American loyalist, and I happened to be born in the State of
New York ; but I have lived since childhood in Upper Canada, and my
feelings are wholly Canadian,
Do you consider it to be the prevailing wish of the Upper Canadians to
remain connected with this country ? — Yes : there never was a country
more happily situated than Upper Canada in her connection with this
country. From her soil, climate, and situation, she must be wholly agri
cultural : you receive her produce on more favourable terms than the pro
duce of the U. States : we receive your manufactures on paying a moderate
duty of about two and a half per cent, while they are now paying a duty
from fifty to one h'undred — consequently, we must obtain our supplies at a
cheaper rate. Every person -will not only see, but feel this advantage; to
that, by securing our interest, you have the best guarantee of our attachment
and connection. We are are naturally rivals to the U. S. people ; we grow
the same articles, seek the best markets, and endeavour to draw the pro
ducts of each other through our different commumcations. The only thing
we require, as before stated, to place Upper Canada in the most enviable
situation, is unrestricted immigration, an uninterrupted communication to
the ocean, and the possession of a commercial port.
Independently of tha advantages they derive from the trade of this
country, do you conceive it to be their wish to continue a province of this

105
country 1 — Yes : the only measure adopted by our Government, that I know
of, which gave general dissatisfaction, was in placing restriction on emigra
tion. The reason I heard assigned for this measure, immediately after the
war, when it took place, was that the admission of American settlers would
be a means of disseminating democratical principles, although no evil had
arisen from those who came before the war ; on the contrary, they proved
equally zealous in its defence. If, in truth, their form of Government is
better adapted for our country, it is quite impossible, from our continual in
tercourse with them, to prevent our imbibing those principles ; and any
attempt to prevent it conveys an admission that we think it the best, and
does far more injury than service. That portion of the inhabitants of the
United States who would settle in Canada, would give a decided preference
to our Government, and would make the best subjects and settlers, upon
the same principle, and for the same cause, that the great majority of
English, Scotch, and Irish who settle in America become the most violent
democi-ats in that country ; for neither party would go and settle under any
government without being predisposed in its favour. The only diflerence
in the form of government in the State of New York and Upper Canada,
consists in the appointment of Governor, Upper House, or Legislative
CouncQ, and Magistrates : the former, with us, is apppointed by the Crown,
during pleasure, the Upper House for life, (independent of both Crown and
people,) Magistrates, die, by the executive : our parish officers elected by the
people. They, in New York, elect the whole, and in this only do we differ.
We have the full benefit of their democracy without its attendant evils.
They are continually electioneering and changing every officer in the state,
from a Governor to a constable ; constitution and all. In a late change in
their constitution, they adopted ' universal suffrage ' as it is termed, paying
no regard to property. This is found on trial to create much dissatisfaction
among themselves. A man in office being dependent on popular favour,
(if he wishes to retain his situation,) makes it a study to please the majority,
right or -wrong, and cannot act independently. Many of them feel the
effect of this, and we see it; and I am sensible but few, if any, in Canada,
desire a change. Therefore, independent of our interests, which is the
governing motive, we have good reason to be satisfied with our form of
Government. Then you think it the prevailing wish not to make the Government
more democratic than it is at present 1 — I do.
Have you any reason to believe that persons of dift'erent religious per
suasions are in the habit of conforming to the worship of the Church of
England when churches are built and clergymen provided ? — I do not think
they are ; I do not think they like the form of it generally ; my reason is,
that there are more of other persuasions than of the Church of England.
What persuasion do you belong to yourself? — I belong to the Church of
England. Do you happen to know how many members of the Assembly in Upper
Canada are members of the church of England i — I do not.
Are the churches fully attended, as far as you know 1 — In some places
they are ; it depends altogether upon the situation of them.
Are you acquainted with tho Act by tlie name ofthe Sedition Act! — Yes.
Do you know the history of that .Act ? — It was an Act passed a long
time ago, during the troubles in Ireland, in order to prevent Irishmen who

106
might be conceived to entertain dangerous principles from coming into the
country ; the only instance I know of its ever being acted upon was in the
case of Mr. Gouilay.
What are the powers that it gives ? — It .gives power to a commissioner
of the Court of King's Bench to order a person out of the country ; if I go
and take an oath that T believe that such a person has not taken the oath
of allegiance within a certain time, and that he is a dangerous man, the
commissioner orders the person out of the country ; if he does not choose to
go, he is then confined.
Is there no appeal ? — No. Mr. Gourlay is a case in point ; he was
ordered to leave the country ; he would not go, and was put in gaol.
Has the House of Assembly repeatedly passed bills to do away with
that Act?— It has.
Have they been constantly rejected by the Legislative Council ?— They
have. It is then in existence at this moment ? — It is.
Do you happen to know by what majorities in the House of Assembly
those bills were carried? — They were carried almost unanimously in the
House of Assembly.
Has it not been for some time past the first bill that the House of
Assembly passed before it proceeded to other business ? — Yes.
Do you know upon what principle the Legislative Council refussed to
repeal the Bill ? — I have heard the Bill was rejected because they conceived
no evil had arisen from the existence of the Act, and they did not conceive
it necessary to repeal it. But in my opinion, it would ba a good thing if it
wag done away with. It is a useless law, and gives needless dissatisfaction.
Do you follow any profession in Canada ? — No, I do not.
Do you hold any situation under the Government ? — Nothing but an
honorary one. T am a Commissioner of the Peace.
Are you a holder of land in Uppi-r Canada ? — I am.
You state that a law was made for pi-eventing Irish from coming into
Upper Canada, is there any prejii^ice at tMs moment against the introduc
tion of Irish emmigrants ? — On the contrary, they conceive it very beneficial.
Is it the general opinion in Upper Canada, that their interests and their
resourses would be mateiially advanced by the increase of their population?
— Certainly, the interests and resourses of Upper Canada would be materially
advanced by the increase of population.
Do you think the Legislature of Upper Canada would be prepared to
concur in any measure for tha introduction of population into that country?
— I think they would, but it would depend upon what footing their con
currence was required, they could not contribute money just now, if their
natural situation is improved in the way I have mentioned, they will be able
to assist in any thing.
Do you think that if they h.ad the means of assisting they would be dis
posed to assist in it ? — Yes ; if we are placed in the situation that the state
of New York is, by possessing a port of our own, we -will be enabled to
contribute to any measure for the advancement of the country.
What part of Upper Canada do you reside in? — In the district of Niagara.
Do you know anything ofthe administration of justice there? — Yes.

107^
Is it m a respectable state, or is it disapprovedOf ?— It is in a respec
table state. ^^ ^
Are they satisfied with the constitution of the Legislative Council, as.
It at present exists ?— They are, so far as I have any knowledge. It would
be better if they appointed, in the Legislative Council, men more generally
distributed over the province, instead of so great proportion being resident
at York, as it would add more weight to the body; and I think lata appoint
ments have been more distant. They were at an eariy day.
Are you at all acquainted with the disputes now going on in that Province,
respecting the clergy reserves?— I am not particularly acquainted with them.
1 know the situation ofthe clergy reserves, and the way they are held.
Are they satisfied with the constitution of the clergy corporation?— Those
that do not belong to the Church of England are not. The Church of
Scotland went to get a share of the property, and if they were to get it,
and it were only between those two churches, I think the people in general
would be more dissatisfied than they are now, because all the other de-
nommations would lay claim to it.
¦What is the prevailing religious belief in the Upper Province ? — They
are divided among a number ; I think the Methodists are the prevailing
opinion, and I think they have done more good than any others.
Do you mean the Wesleyan Methodists ?— They are of the same faith,
but belonging to a conference established in the state of New York ; they.
came into that country when it was very new.
Do they connect themselves at all -with the Churcli of England ?— No,
they are quite separate.
Are their ministers generally Americans or Englishmen ? — They are
di-rided ; there are a number of Upper Canadians among them.
Is the improvement of the country materially retarded by the manner in.
which the clergy reserves have been laid out ? Yes ; their being separated and
distributed through the country proves injurious to the settlement of the re
mainder, as they do not equally contribute to the general improvement.
Do you think it would be possible to sell any large portion of the clergy re
serves in the course of a few years? — I think it would, if the country was
properly improved ; but in the present situation of that country it is impossible
to sell land at any thing like its real value : and to this subject I am particularly
desirous to draw the attention of the Committee, to shew the relative value of
property in Upper Canada compared with the State of New York, and the
price of land in the two countries.

27th. — Received a letter from Canada, stating that they have a greater
force employed than in former years. His Majesty had, on the 13th of
May, decided upon making us a loan ; which circumstance was notified by
Mr. Cameron. Since the change of the ministry on the 28th, the Chancellor
of the Exchequer has been so much engaged, that it has not yet been brought
before the bouse.
"July 3i-d. — I am this day 35 years of age, and think I feel as I should,
grateful for being preserved so long.
" Wrote a letter to the Chancellor.
"Attended a meeting at the Freemason's Tavern, to raise money for the-
Thames Tunnel. The Dukes of Cambridge and Wellington were present

108
— great enthusiasm manifested. I consider the compliments paid to the
Duke of Wellington rather fulsome and ill-timed. Good feeling however
prevailed, and much money subscribed.
" 6th. — Visited Richmond and Twickenham. The visitors principally
foreigners. Richmond is a beautiful place, famous with us for the song,
" The Lass of Richmond Hill." It consists of a large park. The deer re-
Bomble our calves, well fed on milk. Kew gardens consist of very
extensive Royal domains. Near by is Zion House, the residence of the
Duke of Northumberland, said to have three hundred and sixty-five windows.
" July 7th. — Visited fhe British Museum, and was pleased with the ex
hibition of birds in particular.
" In the evening attended Parliament. Heard a most interesting debate
(to me) on the fortification of Canada, and the Rideau Canal.
" 1 1th. — Attended the debate on the Budget. The appropriation for the
Welland Canal passed unanimously.
" 12th. — Called upon the Chancellor, and left with him a blank powe.
of attorney to be filled up.
^ " 14th. — Called upon my old friend Ryerson, also upon Mr. Ellice. Pro
cured a letter of credit for £10,000 ; and another to Yates k Mclntyre for
a similar amount. Wrote to President of Canal Company, also to Mr.
Black, the Clerk, of these proceedings.
"15th. — Walking with' Mr. Grant and Mr. Gale, when the latter was
robbed of his gold watch by a pick-pocket.
" 16tli. — Went to witness Mr. Gumey's steam coach in operation.
"19th. — At Brompton to see a coach which was prope'.led by gas. If
this principle is practicable, the power created will be cheaper than steam,
.and supersede all others.
" 20th — Sunday. — Heard Mr. Ir-vine the celebrated Scotch Divine.
His attitude and gestures not graceful. He preached from the single word
" Christ." Ha is odd and eccentric, but possesses great talent, particularly
in tha interpretation of those mysteries to which he appeared to turn his
attention." After a number of business transactions, unnecessary to be recorded,
we again revert to his diary.
"26th. — Visited the Museum ofthe East India House.
"29th. — Mr. Logan took soma shares. No other house interested in
Canada took any shares yet but his.
"August 2nd. — Visited the Bazaar in Oxford street, where the trunk of
the large Walnut tree which I have frequently seen while growing in all
its native majesty on the banks of Silver Creek, Lake Erie. It is here
comparatively unnoticed, although at home it was the attraction of every
traveller. Saw McPherson, just from Canada, who reports a wet season
there. " 3rd. — To Westminster Abbey,
" 4th. — Had a long interview with Sir George Murray.
" 5th. — With Mr, Ea^thope, of the Canada Company's Office.
" 10th. — Heard an extemporaneous sermon in Bow Street Churoli.
" 16th. — At the Treasury and Solicitors — prepared for home.
" 17th. — In the moming at St. James' Church.

109
" 18th. — To the Treasury at 11 o'clock. Got the agieement executed,
tnd made every necessary anangement for the payment of the £50,000.
¦Called on Sir George Murray, -with whom I left a letter for the Duke of
Wellington, he promising to see and speak with him on my affMrs. Left
city at half-past 4 in the Manchester coach "Telegraph" for St. Albans. At
half-past 9 took an outside seat for Birmingham in " Grey Hound."
" 19th. — ^Visited the manufacturing establishments, and at 2 left in the
Warrington coach. Stopped at Bilston, and examined the iron works.
Was surprised at the wearying service of the women, who were employed in
making brick, carrying and loading coal, &c. The appearance of those
works and furnaces gives a better idea of the power of Great Britain than
all the fortifications, garrisons, and ships that we see. Slept a couple of
hours, and jumped in the royal mail coach for Manchester. Found at War
rington that seats were all engaged. Paid two sovereigns to a German
woman for her seat. The appearance of the country at night is similar to
the aurora in America — pointed flashes of light, and the lurid glare of the
blast furnaces which border the road, has a strange and startling effect.
" 20th — Arrived in Manchester at half-j>ast seven. Went to bed foi-
two or three hours, and .afterwards visited the different manufactories in
the city. Left for Liverpool at half-past six.
" 23rd. — Visited Duke of Bridgewater's canal, and through an extensive
salt establishment. Examined the locks on the Runcorn canal, and returned
to Liverpool at eleven o'clock.
" Sunday 24th — -Attended divine service at an Asylum for the Blind,
where the service was chanted. A very interesting scene.
25th — Visited the great potter^', aud afterwards went on board a Russian
ship from Archangel, 820 tons burthen. The sailors' bread is rye, of a dark
colour. Also a Dutch gallot of 130 tons. The Captain was accompanied
by his wife. Visited an enormous distillery, which pays an excise duty of
£500 per day.
26th.— After seeing all the sights, embarked on board the paeket
Napoleon. The day was fine. Wind E, Scene exceedingly animated, as
in company with a great number of vessels, we passed down the Mersey.
Nearly 150 sail, all head of us. In a few minutes the superiority of our
vessel was manifested, as we passed one after the other of them ; and at
last we formed the centre of a semicircle, which reminded me of the position
of the French and Spanish fleets at Trafalgar. Amengst our passengers
were four Canadians, two Hamiltons, and Grant.
29th. — Passed Cape Clear. Weather fine.

The voyage home was accomplished without any unusual occurrence,
and occupied his time by writing out a memorandum for the Legislatures of
Upper and Lower Canada, in refeience to the project of the St. Lawrence
Canals. Monday Sept. 24th. — Sighted land, and pilot came on board about
seven miles from Sandy Hook. They anived in New York the same evening.
And our subject in Ms journal does not forget to record his gratitude t®
the Almdghty, for His protection during the voyage.

¦ no
In a letter, dated from Brockport 4th October, to Dr. P., he says : —
" I left N. Y. on Sunday, (two days after landing) and travelled in a
ataf-e. Near Geddesburgh, on Tuesday afternoon, we were upset, causing
the" breaking of my thigh bone in two places, one in the thinner part of
the limb, six inches above tha knee, and the second, four inches Mgher.
The Syracuse doctor who set it, says it is in the most favourable position.
I date this from a lime boat near the heading of this latter. I have written
Mrs. M. We were detained two or three days this side of Palmyra, owing
to a break in the canal. I am lashed up as effectually as a man in a straight
jacket. This has been a damper. Still, I have a good appetite, and in good
spirits. I have been visited, during my detention, by your brother John,
who has given me the news. I have many things to write about, but as my
right knee forms my only desk, you may judge by the scrawl, that the ac
comodation is not very suitable. Young Mr. George Keefer happemng to
hear of my accident while at Rochester, has come down, for which I feel
thankful, with the other." Yours truly, William Hamilton Merritt.
In answer to his letter, Mrs. Merritt immediately started off, and met
Mm at Black Rook, where he arrived on Tuesday the 7th. In her letter to
her mother, .she says : —
" I never saw Hamilton look so well in my life."
At eight o'clock next morning, he was removed into a large boat, and
they passed down the river to the mouth ofthe Chippewa, where they ar
rived at t-welve o'clock, and passing up that river to within three miles ofthe
canal, he was met by a delegation of horsemen, and a large number ori
foot, who brought him to his home in St. Catharines, amidst the most joyous
demonstration of his many friends. The village was illuminated at night,
aud the continued rattle of small arms which greeted his arrival, strongly
resembled some of the older days on the banks of the Niagara River.
During his absence in England, the agent, clerk, engineer, and contractor
had been very active in their respective departments. The engineer, writing
to Mr. Merritt on the 7th of April, says : —
" I shall not leave the line. Be assured that I feel the importance of
being here moi'e than when you were present,"
Although, from the length of time our subject was absent, some impedi
ments had occured.
Thompson k Co. commenced the deep cut on the 26th April, and have
now a heavy force on. Mr. Phelps commenced on the 10th. There never
was a finer time. Every part of the line is in motion. Three sections
are finished. The locks are progi-essing. Tow-path going on. A heavy
g-ale produced no damage to our piers at the harbour. The excavations at
the Chippewa end will all be done by the 20th of this month.

Ill
With regard to the other improvements, the ditch is being made through
the marsh, but other operations in that quarter are suspended. The estimates
up to the Istof April are $20,000.
From the advanced position the works had now assumed, a new feature
in removing the earth by scows was gone into by the contractors on the
deep cut, whereby they deposited the surplus earth along the banks of the
Welland River, in order to make a tow-path, which means was found very
convenient. About this time, the Church already spoken of, had received its first
regular minister, in the per.son of a Mr. Parkin. He came from Chambly in
Lower Canada, and seems to have been well liked by the little congi-egation,
who always kept the Church well filled.
On April the 9tli, the annual election of dii-ectors is noticed, and Mi-.
Merritt was chosen as one during his absence, and the other members weie
re-elected. Mr. Bolton left, during the season, for Newfoundland, and Col. J. Clark
was the secretary and acting agent duiing the absence of Mi-. Merritt. On
the 29th of April, Commodore Northrop's vessel, the " Welland Ca.nal," -wa.s
launched — and on the Uth of May, the Coniinodoie invited His PJxcellency,
the Lieutenant Governor, aud the board of directors to a grand spre.ad on
board. They sailed from St. Catharines to Port Dalhousie, much to the
gratification of the multitudes who crowded the banks of the canal. The
vessel left afterwards for King.stou, with 1,000 bbls. of flour, thus being tho
pioneer from the canal.
A meuacerie and circus from the States made its appearance this year,
thus shewin-T that the village was rapidly becoming known to the outside
world. A daily stage to Bufl'alo was inaugurated on the 2."-^t!i May, iu thi.s year,
Mr. Stephenson being one of the company in St. Catharines.
The election of members for the tenth Parliament was more than usually
lively : in this district Mr. Merritt was again nominated, which .shewed the
good will of his friends towards him.
Among the extraordinary canal projects of this year, was cue for forming
a continuous canal from Bufl'alo to Detroit, along the luke shore. Yet, as
the tendency of public opinion, we see an article in the papers of this time,
4th June, headed "Railroads vs. Canals," showing that tbe public were now
gro-wino- tired of tho numerous schemes of water communication, and that
their thoughts were beginning to turn to other means of transportation.
Eighteen mouths had elapsed since the last census of the village was
taken, and now they returned a population of 600— increase of 200.
By the advertisements in the paper, we see a marked change in the
business enterprise ; among them, one connected with the expected opening

112
of the eanal was a forwarding scheme, by Messrs. Munson & Co. We see Dr.
Chase advertises 3,000 bushels of salt, at 50 cents per bushel.
The death of De Witt Clinton, at the early age of 58, was the subject of
a great deal of newspaper talk, suggestions for a public monument by the
citizens of N. Y., and testimonials to his family, <fec. A bill was brought in
to the Legislature at Albany, to grant to Ms cMldren the sum of $10,000,
but was thrown out on the third reading, thereby shewing that generous
gratitude to a great and good man, are as rare in Republics as in other places.
The monument to the illustrious General Brock, erected by the Canadian
militia, from whom a penny subscription was raised, was this year completed.
This gives evidence of the gratitude and appreciation of the Upper
Canadians. 16th September. — Mr. Black, iu acknowledging remittances, gives a sad
account of the .sickness on the canal :
" I lament to say, there is little prospect of finishing the canal this fall,
although six weeks ago we had good reason to believe it would have been
finished. There has not been a great deal done in the marsh. Not a person
sick there, where it was most expected. Mr. Yates' negotiation failed.
Boulton was sent to New York, and got acceptances of .¦$24,000, from what
you might get in England. Half of it was negotiated at the Bank of Upper
Canada, for a consideration, which, with Boulton's charges, makes it a poor
assistance. The engineer and contractor are at loger-heads."
Daring his sickness, Mr. Merritt received many answers to Ms questions
in reference to the St. Lawrence Canals, viz: from Mr. Macaulay of Kingston)
Mr. Whiting of Prescott, and Mr. Jonas Jones, from Brock-ville. And, in re
ference to his Grand River scheme, from Mr. Whitehead, and several others.
Also, letters of commisseration from the President of the Canal, Mr. Dunn,
J. .B. Yates, Peter Robinson, Charles Small, die. During the worst period
of his illness, the news of the serious slips in the deep cut was brought to
him. It must not be supposed th.at the only difficulty experienced up to this
time lay in the task of getting the money to carry on the works. In the
deep cut, a series of most disastrous and annoying land slips occurred,
caused by the quick-sand and the great weight of the bdnks, but which were
of so serious a nature as to imperil the future prospect of the work. Few
can have any idea of the annoyance caused by these slides ; and in the
present instance the management were almost driven to desperation to
overcome them. Other parts of the canal were either finished or rapidly
approaching completion ; but the deep cut was the Rubicon on which the
whole energy of the affair required concentration. Under the circiimstan-
ces a further digging out of the cut was Eot to be thought of So the ideas
of our subject were directly turned to the utility of his extension of the
Canal to Lake Erie by means of a feeder or cut to Port Maitland. which by
its higher level and more certain supply of -^vater, would keep a deptli in

113
the deep cut more than sufficient for all future casualties on that unfortu
nate spot.
On the 1 4th November, he -writes to Mr. Phelps, contractor, as follows :
" Send me word by Mr. Clark, particularly, whether there is any indi
cation of a new slip. Whether you intend timbering through your slip, and
•what time you think it will take."
A meeting of the directors was also called to consider the matter, and
after sundry propositions to remedy the evil, it was decided to leave it in the
hands of Mr. Merritt, who at onco commenced upon pushing the work on the
feeder from the Gra,nd Ptiver; although it may easily be inferred that at this
particular time the position of our subject was such as to severely try a
bolder man. The accounts coming in from the deep cut, where hundreds of
thousands of dollars had alre.idy been s]ient — the utter impossibility of deal
ing with quick-sand in such a place, added to tlie trouble of a fractured
limb, with occasional fever, are discouragements which can be better ima
gined than described.
Mr. Geddes, a leading engineer on the Erie Canal, was also sent for to
consult with Mr. Barrett on the graves matter, and Mr. Barrett writes :
" I have travelled through the deep cut. Judj;e Geddes left the upper
end ofthe feeder, and has Leen to ii-,e mouth of tbe Grand River, and ex
amined it for a harbour. Shall -.j tiiroe.,; 'i jvom ^Lirshville to St. Catharines
with him. My deep cut leve.^ to tiie li.iiik near Coulter's shanty, give
14 feet above the Cliippew.i, or 22 feet for deep cut. This level we can
.sustain throughout."
As the general affairs of a country are at any time interesting, we hope
that a slight digression will be pardoned, in order that a passing glance
may be taken at important events now transpiring, which, to a great extent
affected the future welfare of this country. It is not our object to enter into
British politics, yet it is necessary, since they, in common with other Euro
pean maratime nations, consider their possessions as held for their peculiar
benefit, and are not decided on what their peculiar benefits are, it is neces
sary to give a comprehensive view of the whole field.
The European policy, undertaken by the Congress of Verona in 1822,
had changed England's policy in America, making it agree with President
Munroe's doctrine regarding the possessions of Spain in this country, and
strongly fortifying their own.
The causes of Revolution are often less under the surface than the actors
in them are willing to acknowledge, in our case being directly on the surface.
It is strange, when there was such an abundance in America, that avidity
for land should be one of the most potent causes for disturbance. The
French wars, succeeded by the Revolution, had this object. Gourlay
found an almost universal support by joining the people against Governor
Simcoe's monopolies of the cro-wn grants, and Mr. McKenzie's importance
from opposing the Canada Company's purchase of the same.

114
The object appears to have been to establish a line of fortifications along the
frontier to discourage emigration from the States : to make the present in
habitants subservient to their interests, and to perpetuate them, by shii,ping
their surplus population to Upper Canada.
Sir Carmichaal Smith had been deputed by the Government, of which
the Duke of Wellington was a member, as British Commissioner, to examine
and report upon the military state of the Provinces, reported very favourably
on the canal enterprise, and especially the harbour at the entrance of the
"Twelve," which v/ould admit vessels drawing 12 feet of water, and as such,
equal to Niagara, as a naval entrance. He also recommended the re-
establisMng of Port Maitland at the mouth of the Grand River, which had
been abandoned and dismantled at the close of the war, and the fleet sank.
He also laid out tha siites of two forts on the lands lately purchased by the
Government, at the Short-hills — one to be called Wellington Heights, and
the other Fort St. George.
The long vexed question of the boundaries having lately been settled.
The British Government were particularly liberal in giving up a fortress
on Lake Champlain, on cur side of the line, and also paying them
$1,204,000, said to be by ardent Democrats claims for depredations com
mitted in the taking and burning of Washington by Lord Howe; the claims
being smoothed over as a general charge for negro slaves who escaped at this
time ; although, strange to say, no off-set was asked for or allowed for the
burning of Niagara, or the numerous depredations committed on our people
during the same war: the whole affair strongly resembling the Geneva Ar
bitration of later years. The answer of Lord Bathurst to the address of the
previous House, to remit duties or disliabilities on contractors, labourers
and others, into the Province, was construed into an opposition to the Im
perial policy :
" I have laid before the King the Address of the House of As.sembly of
Upper Canada, praying that His Majesty would be graciously pleased to
promote the settlement of the Province, by offering encouragement to emi
gration from the United States. I am commanded to acquaint you that
His Ma,jeaty will bo always ready to give any encouragement to the cultiva
tion of the waste lands — but is assured of the loyalty of the people of the
Province, and of their paramount attachment to Great Britain. That he
is convinced that the House would see with extreme regret, the adoption of
any system which could interfere with the measures now in contemplation
for the encouragement of emigration from His Majesty's United Kino-dom
of Great Britain to Upper Canada."
The Canada Company's notice, signed by Mr. Gait, at York, to squatters
to vacate their lands, appeared about this time, shewing that already the
interests of English monopolists were beginning to clash with the best
interests of the country, as expressed by the resolutions from the last
Parliament, favouring emigriation from th© United States; this had

115
been the case for the last half century, causing the settlement of the country
by a loyal and enterprising class from the other side, to whom almost all the
enterprise was due. TMs policy was attempted to be changed on the pas
sage of the Reform Bill ; and Col. By and many other engineering officers
called home, but not soon enough to avert the Rebellion. A coldness
in the colony towards the parent state grew up, and Mackenzie's rebellion
was the necessary consequence of these proceedings. Mr. W. L. McKenzie
was a man of great intellect and untiring energy. That temperament should
affect men in weighing the burthen of their grievances, is exemplifled in a
striking manner by the contrast of the way the subject was taken up by these
two iridividuals. Mr, Merritt, whose family had lost all in the troubles, and
who were therefore entitled to the waste lands, in intimate connection and
friendship with their agents, and using the company in England to transact
their business, while Mr. McKenzie kept up an eight years struggle of war
to the knife with what he considered an unjust monopoly. The lesson of
hasty decisions could be answered by asking, " Which of tha two has the
claim of being the greatest benefactor to his country ? "
His journey to England, ii-respective of the business connected therewith,
formed a new epoch in the life of our subject. The interrogation he under
went before the Committee of the House of Commons on the leading sub
jects of Colonial policy, brought his attention to politics, from a position
where he could more readily form an opinion than in his native country.
Being now of an age when one is supposed to be well able to discriminate,
we have reason to believe that ideas which afterwards developed themselves
in the political economist and politician, which resulted in advocating Earl
Grey's sliding scale in favour of Colonial products, and when Sir R. Peel
took off this advantage, in the advocacy of Reciprocity ; and again, when
Responsible Government proved a failure, in advocating a Confederation ;
which will be seen as our work progresses.
One of the important events occurring at this time was the departure
of the two Governors, Lord Dalhousie aud Sir P. Maitland, both of whom
were a long time in the country, and were firm friends toward Mr. Merritt
and the Welland Canal. Lord Dalhousie had left before Mr. Merritt's
arrival, and passed him on the ocean. His Lordship's term of office in this
country had lasted eight years, which were very eventful ones in the Ms-
tory of Canada. He was awarded with the Governorship of India, where,
in his Imperial Palace at Calcutta, under entirely opposite circumstances,
surrounded by Mahometan and Hindoo princes, he possibly but seldom
thought of his friends in America or their aflairs, but such was not the case
with them ; Port Dalhousie, one of the termini of tha Welland Canal, was-
named after him, in gratitude for his exertions in their behalf
The Lieut.-Governor, who left soon after, was more identified -with the
works, and aa such we think a short notice of him will not be out of place

116
in these pages. In the journal of that time we find the following notice of
His Excellency's departure : " On Saturday last, 25th Oct., a deputation
" from the inhabitants of the village and vicinity, consisting of Messrs.
" Geo. Keefer, Jno. Clark and J. Barrett, waited on His Excellency at his
" lodge at Stamford Paik, and presented to him an address on the occa-
" sion of his departure from this Province,'' in which they say : "Among
" the many public works commenced during the administration of your
" Excellency for the improvement of the Province, the Welland Canal, now
" drawing towards its completion, will afford a lasting monument to your
" Excellency's zeal ; and to your Excellency's favorable recommendation
" are they indebted for the means of its accomplishment." To which
he replied: "I receive with great satisfaction this address from the
" inhabitants of the village of St. Catharines. It has afforded me sin-
" cere pleasure to witness the great works suggested by an individual of
" your village, so prosperously advancing. It has not wanted my hearty
" recommendations, which I hope the recent assistance of His Majesty's
" Government will render certain of completion. Allow me to assure you
" that my removal to a more extended command will not impair the interest
" 1 kake in your welfare, nor be suffered to obliterate the kindness and
" attention I've received during my residence in your vicimty.'
We also see notices of the militia being out at this unusual season, which
was no doubt for the purpose of forming a guard of honor, and paying their
r»spects to His Excellency. A letter from Geo. Manners, British Consul
at Boston, dated Dec. 9th, gives an account of his departure for his new
Government in Nova Scotia. He says : "At 8 p.m. on the 25th 1 saw
" them on board the Chebucto. I assure you that I shook their hands with
" the greatest regret," etc. Sir P. Maitland took kis departure, with
his high-born dame, after a sojourn of eight years. He had the finest
appreciation of the beauties of our natural scenery of any of the Governors
who had heretofore enjoyed the appointment, differing from his kinsman the
Governor of the Ionian Isles, called " Sultan Maitlaad." He built a house
and laid out grounds on the brow of the mountain, near the Falls of Ni
agara, visiting the people in their wild isolation. The author has heard
from one of these, the daughter of Col. Turney, near DeCew Falls, that the
Governor would often surprise them with a visit, and compliment the
hostess by saying he preferred their little falls to Niagara. He used to
visit the canal frequently, bringing his guests to see the works thereon in
which he appeared to take a deep interest. He was hospitable often in
viting the ex-Sheriff to his entertainments. He served a term in Nova
Scotia, and then to the Cape, where the Kaffir war terminated his duties
as Governor. The author came across his path while travelling in 1843
enjoying his characteristic aestetic pursuits at Lausanne, in Switzerland.
The item circulated in the papers that Sir P. Maitland had called some of

117
the townships after his lady's lap dogs is of small moment, as he had no
doubt difficulty in making names, from the fact that during the first year
of Ms administration, in 1820, twelve new townships were laid out. A
letter was received by T. Merritt, Sr., then Surveyor of Woods and Forests,
askmg permission for the Crown right of timber for townships bearing the
names "Artimesia," "Mariposa," "Zone," "Zero" "Java," "Dawn,"
"Rama," "Mara," "Sol," "Ops," "Olden," " Oso

1829.
After being confined to the house for about two montns, our subject at
last was sufficiently recovered to take an active part in the works, and on
the 14th December we find that he drove down to the harbor to look at
improvements there, and shortly afterwards, on the 1st January, he at
tended the meeting of the Board at York, bringing with him the reports of
Messrs. Geddess and Banett. They were adopted, and we find that, with
the additions now proposed, the expense would be £90,000. Mr. Menitt
was instructed to let out the necessary contracts immediately, which he did,
and retumed towards the end of the month, after enjoying the hospitality
of the Governor, Mr. Bolton, etc. The Parliament opened on the 9th, and
Lieutenant-Governor, Sir John Colbome, in his speeph mentioned the
improvements in the Gore and Niagara Districts. As this Parliament was
the one in which our subject may be said to have received the most opposi
tion, it is worth stating that it was a decidedly radical one, or, more properly
speaking, a nationality in Assembly, approaching more to the views of the
Lower Canadian House than any of the previous ones. It consisted of 48
members, of whom 4 were natives of Ireland, 6 of Scotland, 7 of England, 13
of Canada, 3 of other British Colonies, and 15 of the United States. Among
this number were W. L. McKenzie, Mr. Bidwell, Jno. Wilson, Dr. Rolph,
Capt. Mathews, and other men who afterward participated in the unsuc
cessful rebellion with their fellow malcontents in Lower Canada. After
the meeting of the Board, Mr. Merritt remained in York until beyond the
middle of the month. In a letter to Mrs. Merritt he says (10th Jan.) : "I
" dined with His Excellency last week, Dunn, Allan and Boulton, and de-
" clined all other engagements." On his return to St. Catharines he writes
to Dr. P  (10th Feb.) as follows: "The whole line was put under con-
" tract on the 31st of January, and is now in execution. I hope we will
" be in a position to open it by June, at which time I trust you will be
" here. We have formed a company which undertakes to convey produce
" from the Grand River to Lake Ontario for 20 cents per barrel for flour
" — grain in proportion — and 10 cents from the upper end of the Deep Cut
" to the lake. It is intended to connect with a company in Cleveland,

118
" Ohio, who will guarantee conveyance to the commencement of our canal
" at a fixed price. Another company will be at Oswego to transport to
" New York."
After his trip home, Mr. Merritt proceeded to York, and attended at the
rising of the Parliament, where the Act giving the Canal Company the
necessary rights on the new route was passed and received the Royal assent.
This was an important affair, as the route went through the lands of the
Government at the mouths of the Chippewa and Grand Rivers. He was not
so successful, however, in lobbying a bill through the House having refer
ence to the Academy and laying out of the roads in the village, as the
Upper House refused the measure after its passage through the Lower.
This action may in some measure be traced to the fact that the Bishops or
U. C. College had just been started in York, and it was thought that one
institution was sufficient at the time. The Act of Incorporation for the
Grantham Academy, however, passed both Houses the following session.
Acts were passed at the previous one for the building of lighthouses on
Lakes Erie and Ontario, showing that the country was beginmng to feel
the effects which the contemplated opening of the Canal would have on the
trade of the Lakes. As an indication of the rising of the ill-feeling between
the Government and tbe popular branch of the Legislature, we may men
tion that at this session 33 bills were thrown out from the Upper House,
and only 25 were passed.
Arriving home, he started, on the 23rd, up the line, terminated by the
Grand River, and afterwards returned to York on financial affairs.
On the 24th of March, Mrs. Merritt writes a most interesting letter to
her parents, wherein she graphically describes the adventures of a sleighing
party, of whom she was one, who went from St. Catharines to the Grand
River. Proceeding by the Deep Cut seven miles up to the Chippewa, where
they found the piers sunk for the aqueduct, and then travelling four or
five miles through a thinly settled country to Marshville, they met some
friends, amongst them a cousin. This place was the headquarters of the
Engineer on the Feeder. After dining, they proceeded in a straight course
for ten miles through the marsh, passing occasionally a few shanties, where
people were at work digging. The road was along the embankment made
by the ditch. She expresses surprise at the healthiness of the people, and
associates it -with the fact of the water being impregnated with tamarac.
At tbe end of the marsh, near the site of Dunnville, there were a half dozen
of houses. The contractor, Simpson, and Mr. Camp, had a store. As the
accommodation there was insufficient for their party, they drove down to
the mouth of the river, now Port Maitland, where, finding good accommo
dation and huge fires in the inn, after th^ir long ride they enjoyed them
selves after the usual manner of the times in the back woods. Stopping all
night, in the morning they observed on the opposite side of the river a few

119
-whitewashed buiiaings, which were used for ttie naval establishment. The
day being fine, and the air and sky clear, they could distinctly see the farms
and woods on the other side of the lake. They then proceeded five or six
miles up the river, and returned through Canboro' by way of the Twenty
Mile Creek, much pleased with their winter's drive through the woods.
At the election of Directors at St. Catharines, April 6, at which Mr. Yates
was present, a new feature was the election of Messrs. Lafferty and Dixon
as Government representatives at the Board. On the 6th and 7th of May,
the Directors visited the line, and inspected the Grand River dam. 0-wing to
the fact of the original site at the mouth being objected to be the military
authorities, they were compelled to move it about four and a half miles up
the river to its present position at Dunnville. Contracts for the job were
entered into with Mr. Wilkinson and others for the completion of the work
b)y the middle of July, for the sum of £12,500. On the 8th the Directors
met in St. Catharines and conflrmed these proceedings.
Shortly afterwards Mr. Menitt accompanied his wife and two sons to
MayviUe, where he remained a few days and returned by steamboat to Buf
falo, and thence to St. Catharines. On the 1 2th of June he writes from Thorold
-to Mrs. M. : "As I have no particular inducement to go home, I generally
" remain over night where the necessities of the works flnd me, though my
" occupation is chiefly on the upper end. The brush dam over the Grand
" River is getting on well ; by present appearances it will be finished next
"month." The vessel called the Welland Canal, o^wned by Commodore
Northrop, kept on her usual trips, but from the numerous allusions we find
made to her and her gallant owner we are led to the conclusion that in
many respects she answered the purpose of a yacht, in which his friends
enjoyed themselves with an occasional cruise on the cool waters of Ontario,
.and no doubt partook largely of the commander's hospitality, as we find, in
Si letter from Mr. M., dated June 30, that "Ms father had just retumed
" from a trip to Prescott with the Commodore." About this time St. Cath
arines was visited by the Lieutenant-Governor, who, in company with Mr.
Merritt, inspected the works on the Grand River. He describes Sir John
Colbome as a very hard rider, ha^ving started from St. C. at 6 o'clock in
the morning, they reaching the dam at 3 p.m., returning the next day, so
that our subject, although well accustomed to be on horseback, found Ms
match in the old veteran from Badajos.
On the 15th of July he writes from Marshville, where his headquarters
now are, describing the state of the works, and telling Mrs. M. that he is
sleeping in a room off the office, on a bed 3|- feet ¦wide, with very little of
the comforts of life, as food is scarce and some necessaries not to be had,
and his daily journey over the works amounts to 28 miles. He says : " I
-"'had the pleasure of escorting Mrs. Wilkinson, the contractor's wife, over
¦"the dam on the Grand River,'' so we presume that at this date that wort

120
was finished. Having in the interim visited Mrs. M. at MayviUe, we find
that on the 1st of August he writes as follows from Marshville : " On
" Saturday I reached this place. Sunday, up the Grand River, and re-
" turned to Burgars" (now Welland). " Monday, to Lockport on canal
"business. Tuesday, to St. Catharines, and on Wednesday started for
" York in steamboat from Niagara, and returned on Thursday to St. C,
" and then want up the line,'' where he is on Friday. In those few lines
we have a tolerably fair idea of the amount of labor which our subject
accomplished, and it was often a source of astoMshment to the author, who
accompanied him during part of the journeys mentioned, how he was ever ¦
able to stand up against the strain whicJi he was then subjected to
and we can only account for it from the fact of the iron constitution
and indomitable will with which he was possessed. The management
of an ordinary business is a severe sti ain on the most of men, but when we
consider the manifold duties which he was required to perform, the ever-
rising current of difficulties against which he had to stem, and the numer
ous vexatious questions arising from unforeseen eventualities, financial
affairs, workmen's disputes, sickness, and, what was even worse, the oppo
sition of many who should have been friends, it seems almost impossible
that he could have borne up against them. Along the line of the work*
on the feeder the fever and ague was raging ; strong men were wasted to
skeletons, and the general feeling of despondency and discontent wMch aU
these vicisitudes bring in their train was felt in the ranks of the workmen
who were there employed ; to stir them up, and to cheer forward the -work,
was a duty which devolved on him, and few who now read these pages can
form any idea of the pain and annoyance wMch a sensitive mind like his
often felt under the circumstances. The season had been a dry one, and
consequently the miasma from the stirred up earth was more severe in this
section than usual ; so severe 1 ad it been that the work was delayed in con
sequence. On the 24th of August he writes from St. Catharines : " From
" the sickness on the Grand River wa will ba detained getting the waters
" through until about the middle of the next month." Again, on the 7th
of September .- " I am still in very bad health ; the fever has not left me
" entirely, but I think I am mending.''
The works were now approaching completion, and from the financial
statement exhibited at York on the 2nd of July we find that the Directfrs
were in a tight place for want of money. Every resource had been tried
to keep up the supply ; the plant used on the deep cut was sold, as well as
all unrequired tools, and yet more was wanted ; in ff ct, the actual state of
the finances showed that they were in the possession of £585 in cash
after passing the yearly estimates ; their other assets were principally in
paper, and in promises which might not be redeemed. Resolutions were
passed appointing Mr. Dunn, Mr. Robinson and Mr. Merritt to ask the

121
Governor in person to guarantee a loan of £10,000, also to draw on the
Directors of the Canada Company, who had promised to take stock, and to
apply to the Bank of Upper Canada with ample security for an advance to
cover the estimates for August. On the 24th of September the Board met
at Niagara, and it was there resolved " that the President, Directors
" and Agent do hei-eby agree to save, defend and bear harmless the Lieu-
" tenant-Governor of this Province of and from all personal rist and re-
" aponsibility for making the advance mentioned at the previous meeting."
Where the rest of the money was to come from they were in doubt, but
the following letter from H. J. Bolton to Mr. Menitt shows that the Di
rectors' responsibility was not unanimous : " York, 4th Sept.
" With regard to the money arrangements which you speak of as hav
ing been made, I am quite in the dark."
On the 21st of September Mr. Allan, President of the Bank of Upper
Canada, writes : "I did all I could to advise the Bank Company to advance
"the £6,000 on the security agreed upon, but I fear eircumstances will
"prevent its being done." On the 25th J. H. Dunn writes: "I did hope
" no more money would be required until the water was through, but ex-
" pect when that takes place we shall have no difficulty in obtaining a loan
" — at least tMough the medium of Sir John — for £10,000. I made you
" an advance. Come over." On the 28th Mr. Yates, in answer to an
application, advocates for the Company to issue bank bills, as the last
resort, at this time the water was let in, and, notified by Mr. Merritt. Mr.
Gordon, from Amherstburgh, -writes in answer : " It would be a most
" gratifying spectacle for the inhabitants of Amherstburgh to see a vessel
"from Lake Ontario." November 12th, Chief Justice Robinson says : "I
" fear the very severe frosts may be troublesome to you, still a schooner
" must be passed through."
On Monday, the 14tli September, in this year, was opened for the first
time, the Grantham Academy, which for the future was destined to become
the seat of superior education for the Niagara district. When the Gover
nor was in St. Catharines, on 22nd June, he visited the building, and ex
pressed himself highly gratified with its appearance; and sincerely hoped
that the institution would become a popular and successful one, as the college
opposite the Government House in York had just that month been ten
dered for.
One of the great events of this year was performed by an individual
named Samuel Patch, who, by jumping into the water under the Niagara
Palls, and escaping unhurt, earned himself a name ever afterwards in
American history. The same man terminated his jumping and life together
shortly afterwards in endeavouring to perform a similar feat at the Genesee
Falls, near Rochester. Others, who were fond of excitement, got up a

122
grand exhibition at the Falls, and finished the attractions of the day by
letting an old schooner, containing a number of animals, drift over the
"Horse Shoe." The journals of the time (Oct. 7th) were filled with ac
counts of the event, which, we are told, passed off much to the satisfaction
of the coantlesB spectators.
Another of the events was the establishing of a total abstinence society
at Thorold, under the management of Mr. George Keefer, Mr. Barrett, and
ultimately enlarged by Mr. Phelps, who may be said to have been, by his
zeal and influence, the father of Temperance in this neighbourhood.
After a sickness of six weeks, and a consequent absence, he writes in
his journal: "On the 3rd of October it was fully determined to let tbe
" water into the Canal, but owing to the settling of the dam at G. R. it had
" to be deferred until tha damage was repaired." On the 4th, he writes:
" Sunday — Returned to dam. All hands at work raising the banks. Found
" every job so deficient that I had the water stopped at Broad Creek. Went
" through with the engineers, and took a rough estimate of what was re-
" quired." Tlie Canal was now tested for the first time, aud it was found
that, owing to the hurry in which the contractors went on with their work,
several of the levels were not correct. From this and other circumstances
the opening of the canal was postponed for a month or six weeks.
Now we find him, when others in his position would have been despond
ent, making out estimates for a through extension of the line to Gravelly
Bay, now Port Colborne, so that, with all the drawbacks at this critical time,
we have reason to think that from the beginning his ideas were to mature
this scheme by degrees.
On the 7th of October, in company with two officers from the naval
station at Port Maitland, he passed down the feeder in a boat from Broad
Creek to Marsliville. From the 22nd to the 29th he was in York, raising
funds, and succeeded to the amount of £3,000, and returned to Niagara in
the steamer Alciope. Whilst in Toronto, it was arranged that the opening
and celebration of the canal should take place on the 24th ult., and after
his return the time was fully occupied in getting down the water, making
arrangements for the celebration, and in close correspondence with vessel
owners in Oswego, Buffalo and elsewhere. On the 14th of November two
scows were sent from the deep cut to the Grand River. On the 17th the
prospects were so good that ]Mr. Black was sent to Niagara and York, to
see after vessels, which were procured. Invitations were issued to the
Lieutenant-Governor, and the officers of the 71st regiment, in Toronto,
which were accepted; their fine band was engaged for the occasion;
and colors, guns, ammunition, etc., were procured. The locks and
embankmeats were inspected and found safe, so that all was in readiness
for the grand demonstration.
But tha icy hand of winter interposed, keen frost set in, old Boreas

123
assumed control on Lake Ontario. The departure of the Directors from
York was delayed, owing to the storm; and at last, after maturely weighing
the difficulty, it was decided to delay the public opening until the ensuing
spring, much to the annoyance of our subject, who had everything prepared.
The storm abating on the 26th, the schooner R. E. Boughton, of Youngs-
town, N. Y., arrived at Port Dalhousie to pass the canal, and on the fol
lowing day, the Armie & Jane, from York, for the same purpose. The
weather again became mUd, and, notwithstanding the absence of the Presi
dent, Mr. Menitt decided to carry out a part of the programme, at least,
by sailing through the canal. The journal of this date says :
"On Friday, the 27th November, 1829, the inhabitants of this village
and its vicinity were highly gratified at seeing, moored in the basin oppo
site, the schooner R. H. Boughton, Capt. Pheatt, and the schooner Annie &
Jane, Capt. J. VoUer, which vessels were destined to make the fi/rst voyage
through the canal from Lake Ontario to Lake Erie. The Armie & Jane
passed by, displaying a number of flags, ensigns and pendants, also a
beautiful silk flag with the words "The King, God bless Him !" imprinted in
gold letters, surmounted by the Crown, erected on her bow, and took her
station in the lead." The banks of the canal were crowded with people,
and the enthusiam displayed on the occasion testified that those who
witnessed the display were now fully satisfied as to the prospects of the
great work which had so long occupied their attention.
The vessels arrived safe in Buffalo on the 2nd of December, and
were received with a salute, returning the next day to the canal, which
they passed down in safety, and with good despatch.
In a letter from Chippewa, dated the 30th of November, to Mrs.
M., he says: — "We have arrived this far in safety. The first evening
we lay in the level above Thomas Kerr's ; got on most nobly. On Satur
day we ascended the mountain with ease and facility, after which we had
much trouble in breaking through the ice, and had a detention of some
hours at the first lock on the deep cut by a chip getting under the gate ;
got into the deep cut after sundown. Sunday : had much difficulty in
getting through deep cut, o-wing to the timber and ice; passed the other
two locks, and grounded on a bar, where, being Sunday, we remained
all day. Monday, — got off at 9 o'clock a.m., and towed down to this
place against a heavy head wind, snow, etc. However, on the whole we
have been successful, and have tested to my satisfaction that a vessel will
pass on the canal in twenty-four hours. We leave for Buffalo in the
morning, and will return in a few days." The Buffalo Republican, in an
extra, thus mentions their arrival :
"The First Vessels feom Lake Ontario. — To the surprise of the
citizens of Buffalo and Black Rock, the lake schooners Ann & Jane, of
York, U. C, and R. H. Boughton, of Youngstown, arrived in our harbf .•

124
on Wednesday last, haying on board the enterprising projector of the Wel
land Canal, William Hamilton Merritt, with a company of gentlemen (whose
names the subjoined certificates disclose). The British vessel led the van.
The locks were passed on the 30th of November, just five years from the
commencement of the important work. The question is not, whether this
work will increase or diminish the receipts of tha Erie canal ; we trust that
we possess too much national pride to complain of the success of even a
rival work, began by our neighbors before ours was completed. Its pro
gress to its termination is flattering, and the news we now communi
cate, that of tlie passage of vessels from lake to lake, must be cheering indeed
to the stockholders and gratifying to the inhabitants of Upper Canada.
" Both vessels passed into the Black Rock basin through the sloop-lock,
and were saluted by the steamboat Henry Clay, and cheered by the citizens.
On their arrival in our harbor, they were met with bursts of applause, and
honored by discharges of artillery from the Terrace. The gentlemen pas
sengers then repaired to the Eagle tavern, where they were greeted by
many of our villagers, who called to shake the hands of the navigators of
the Deep Cut.
" The passage of the first vessels was to have taken effect, by a notifica
tion of the W. C. C. Directors, 24th ult., but, owing to storms and unfavor
able state of the weather, was postponed. The zeal of the projector and
persevering agent, could not be satisfied with a " postponement on account
of the weather," so he, and the gentlemen who accompanied him, made the
attempt; and, after cutting ice, in some places three inches thick; ascending
thirty-two locks, at the mountain; passing the deepest of all "cuts;" locking
down into the Welland River ; sailing down that river and toucMng at
Chipp'ewa ; stemming the strong and broad current of the Niagara ; and,
finally, the Black Rock harbor, which has been blamed beyond measure,
opened its arms and gave the ' tars from Ontario' a glorious hug.
" The success of our neighbors may give an impetus to our national or
state governments, or a body corporate, in making a canal or railway from
the Niagara river at Schlosser to tha same river at Lewiston.
" Truly, the bold features of the enterprizes of the New World throw
those of the Old far in the shade."
On Christmas day, after the family dinner with his father, now at E. S.
Adams', Mr. Merritt left for York, to attend the meeting, and make Ms
report. The Welland Canal was now an accomplished fact. The artificial wed
ding of the great lakes of the west and north, withthe waters ofthe Ontario,
and eventually with the St. Lawrence and the ocean, was complete ; and
the pathway which opened its extended gates to the great commerce of the
eastern world, whose pioneers were to carry ci-vilization and intelligence on
their course, was at last gone over, and pronounced a success. Although in
his memoranda at the time we find no particular allusion to the important
event, yet we have reason to believe that beneath the placid exterior, there
bumed a manly glow of pride and exultation, on the accomplishment of
his design, which had made him the instrument of good to his fellow-
creatures, and a feeling of deep thankfulness to the Great Disposer of all

125
things, on whose aid he thus, all his life, steadfastly relied, and in whose
words of encouragement he fixed Ms eternal hope, that the praise and the
glory was given to, we have no doubt. And now, when we see the almost
stupendious results which sprung from his primal idea of a navigable. canal,
we cannot but think, in all his difficulties and manifold troubles at the time,
a more than human strength of both body and mind sustained him through
out. As well as Mr. Menitt, there were others to credit, and although our
special business lies with him, yet amongst the warm supporters and un
flinching friends which he had at this time, there were none perhaps who
remained so steadfast to him as J. B. Yates, Esq., of Chattenango, N. Y.
With money, advice, energy and influence, he assisted our subject more, we
tMnk, from a firm belief in the practicability of his ideas than from any great
returns which he might immediately get therefrom. Others we might men
tion, and where corporate aid was required it cannot be forgotten that
the gentlemen in York known as the Family Compact were able and
patriotic assistants toward the scheme. Foremost on the roll .stand the
late Lord Bishop of Toronto, Dr. Strachan. J. B. Robinson, Chief Justice ;
Mr. Dunn, and numerous others; and last, though in etiquette first, were
Lord Dalhousie and Sir Peregrine Maitland, whose names, with the others,
it is hoped will be forever identified with the realization of the whilom
dreamer, W. H. Merritt, and the Welland Canal.

1830.
He stayed at York all winter, as many affairs connected with the canal
required his attention, and his presence on the spot was necessary. While
here, a number of meetings of the Directors was held, and some very im
portant measures suggested and inaugurated. Amongst them was the
extension to Port Colborne — the race and acqueduct to St. Catharines —
also the usual petition to the Legislature for more funds, as the work
was only opened, to enable to pay off their liabilities and perfect its con
struction. On the 9th of January he writes to Dr. P  : "I have been
" here for some time attending the Legislature, from whom we hope to get
" another |1 00,000 to enable us to finish the canal as it should be. You
" are aware of the expense attending such operations after they are pro-
" nounced finished."
About the 18th he returned to St. Catharines, in consequence of Mrs.
Merritt's illness, who, since her confinement and return from Chatauque,
had been in very delicate health. Next week he went back to York, to
attend a meeting of the Board on the 1st of February. On the 7th he
writes : "The decision whether we will get assistance or not, and in what
" way, will be discussed to-morrow." Again, on the 27th : " I have been

126
" in constant expectation of a termination of the question from day to day
" and from week to weak. The bill has been reported, and we get the
" money unshackled."
Havinc now conclusively established the first oanal in Canada, our sub
ject found sufficient time to agitate the question of the works on the St.
Lawrence. This scheme, which was a part of his original plan, although
kept in abeyance during the progress of the Welland, was nevertheless
always considered by him as a part of the grand chain wMch, to make the
water communication of the country of any worth to the people, would have
to be finished. He was not a man who propounded his plans in one great
undertakino-, believing that in a new and comparatively poor country like
Canada things must be done by degrees, and consequently his approaches
to these works were made in a spirit of caution which often seems at vari
ance -with his known habits. Occasionally, during the progress of tbe
Welland we find an odd article in the papers of the time refening to the
St. Lawrence, again a survey, and at other times a personal remark thereto.
Thus the minds of the country were gradually prepared, and the way to a
certain extent paved for works which it would require large sums to accom
plish. Hence we find on the 20th of January, 1830, a long and very im
portant article in the York Freeman on the necessity of a boat canal from
Montreal to Prescott, with valuable data, etc., like its first survey five
years previous, showing that his ideas at the time were identical with those
first proposed on the Welland, but which, like that, should result in a work
of far greater magnitude.
On the 7th March he again writes to Mrs. Merritt from York as follows:
" The Bill authorizing a loan of £25,000, passed on Friday night about 9
o'clock, (the day previous to the prorogation.) Never in the course of my
life had I so unpleasant, tiresome, and difficult a job. I have experienced
the efiects of hope deferred in its fullest extent, and feel grateful for its suc
cess ; and not the least for its relieving hundreds from misery and want,
whose just claims this loan enables us to satisfy."
The Grantham Academy, noticed as opened last year, held on the 26th of
February, the first examination. After the usual exercises, in a programme
printed at the time, we flnd the names of some who have since been leading
actors in our country's affairs. Professional men — men of business. Nearly
all have left their marks. Some, alas ! have gone out of the annals of our
country. But owing to the want of encouragements hereafter shewn to the
natives, many of them, like it is at present, have been compelled to benefit
outsiders -with talents and energy that have been improved here, in which
they could be ill-spared in the land of their birth.
He returned home on the 12th of March, and his time was occupied -with
the usual office business, and in settling up with contractors and others.
Mr. Barrett, their engineer, now left the canal, in the care of his able

127
assistant, Mr. Keefer, who had been brought up from childhood on the
work, and went down to make another survey on the St. Lawrence.
On the 7th of May, Mr. Merritt was at Lake Erie, examining the dif
ferent bays from which to select a harbour for the extension.
On the 10th he left for New York, and returned by Oswego, after a
fortnight's absence..
Canal boats were established to run between Port Robinson and Dunn
ville three times per week, which continued on the route under the command
of Mr. Broadman. He was succeeded by Mr. John Messmore, who for
many years afterwards carried on the business.
Arrangements were also made for having a steam-boat to nm between
Hamilton and Queenston, calling regularly at Port Dalhousie.
Four large barges, laden with 1,600 banels of fiour, were brought down
from the Grand River, and carried through the canal.
On the letting in of the water, a celebration in honour of the opening
took place at Beverley (now Port Robinson.) A large number were present.
The chair was occupied by Mr. Merritt, and a harmonious evening was spent
— ^rather a numerous party, as four hundred are chronicled as the guests.
The people of Oswego, then,more than now,evinced a warm interest in the
welfare of the canal ; and, we are therefore not surprised to find that the
Report on the Canal for 1829, was extensively circulated by the merchants
of that place amongst their friends in tha lake States. A letter from a
gentlemen there, to Mr. Merritt, dated March 2nd, gives an idea of the pre
vailing sentiment : — " We send you a copy of the Welland Canal Report,
" (which was reprinted.) We have commenced a general circulation of it,
" and shall do it thoroughly, for we look to the Welland Canal as oua main
" STAT, BOTH A3 REGARD,? THE GROWTH OF THIS VILLAGE, AND OUE OWN
" BUSINESS." The time of the election of Canal Directors was now changed to the 1st
of June, as that was found a more convenient season now that tha work was in
operation. At this meeting Messrs. Dunn, Allen, Bolton, A. H. McDonald
and Mr. Merritt were chosen, Mr. Keefer retiring at his own request, and
¦with the conscious feeling of having always stood well by the canal. Tlie
Directors chosen by the Government were Messrs. Lafferty and Dixon, both
frontier men, but not particularly friendly to the Welland Canal. Mr.
Dixon afterward resigned, and was replaced by Mr. R. Randall. After
Mr. Banett's departure, his place was ably filled by Mr. Geo. Keefer,
assisted by S. Keefer.
After numerous drawbacks in connection with the water supplies, the
canal was at last, by the month of July, got in working order but was not
much used till the fall trade, when we find by a letter to Dr. Prendergast,
that a brisk trade was doing.
In order to show who were the pioneers in navigating the canal, we

128
might state that in August of this year the Lieutenant-Governor, Sir John
Colborne, inspected the canal in a Government vessel under command of
Lieutenant Jones, R. N. The schooner Erie, 77 tons, Capt. Boquet, from
Cleveland, bound for Youngstown in ballast, was the first to pass down
from Lake Erie. Messrs. Camp k Kennedy brought down several rafts of
staves from the Grand River. Messrs. Norton k Bliss, from the same
quarter, took 150,000 feet of lumber to Buffalo and Lockport, etc.
About this time the news of the death of King George the Fourth
arrived. The Jouriial of that date was printed in deep mourning. Shortly
afterward the exciting news of the French revolution came, and furnished
the press with ample theories to speculate upon. A proclamation from the
Governor was issued dissolving the Parliament in consequence of the
King's death, and ordering a new election to be held on the 1 8th October —
also proclaiming that his Majesty William the Fourth was now the Sover
eign, etc.
The regulations for the navigation and management of the canal were
now published in a form containing 1 9 clauses. That the macMnery was
in fair working order is shown from the following item, taken from the ¦
York Courier at this time :
" Welland Canal. — We have just been informed by Capt. Finney, of
the schooner Charles <i- Annie, that he left this port on the 15th inst. for
Buffalo via the canal, through the whole line of which he passed in less than
24 hours. Capt, Finney, from the reports ha had heard to its disparage
ment, expected to have met with some drawbacks in the passage through,
but was agreeably surprised to find none. The Captain is confidant that
the canal will fulfil all that its promoters promised. He left Buffalo with
a load of pig iron and castings on the 22nd, and arrived here on the 26th,
making a splendid passage."
On the 21st of August a grand dinner was held in Oswego in honor of
tha success of the work, and Mr. Merritt's health was drank amidst most
unbounded applause.
Mr. Yates, who had been to England, was back in time to be present at
.a meeting of the Board on the 26th Oct., when he offered to purchase the
hydraulic privileges on the line of the canal, for the sum of $100,000, which
was accepted. The extension of the line dii-ect to Port Colborne was ako
decided upon. To accomplish this object, and to build store-houses, furnish
boats, cfec, as the company were partly compelled to become their own for
warders, a further sum of $200,000 was found necessary; and it was at once
decided to again petition the Legislature on the subject. After a great
deal of negotiating by Mr. Yates, Mr. Merritt, and others, the result°wa3
that the Government, on their next meeting, acquiesced in terms which
will be explained as the work progresses.
During tMs year Mrs. Merritt was very ill, and they also experienced
the loss of their last child, a daughter, who died on the 19th of September.

129
Mrs. M. was not convalescent until the cold weather set in, and was not
perfectly restored to health before Christmas.

1831.
The new Parliament met on the 6th of January, and the Govemor in
Ms speech alluded to the important impi ovements being made in our in
land water communications, and admitted their successful operations,
though still favoring the military work to the Rideau.
Shortly afterwards Mr. Menitt and Mr. Yates left St. Catharines for York,
to press the necessities of the Welland upon the Government.
As this, under the present circumstances, was the last loan asked from
the Government, and the composition of the House being Conservative,
who viewed the question from a patriotic standpoint compared with the
former or radical House, little difficulty was experienced in getting the
bUl passed, yet the money was granted under circumstances which involved
our subject, whose property was all in the country, and Mr. Yates, -with
his nephew, A. Y. McDonald, from Cornwall, to so large an amount as to
render, its success necessary for their private interests. They were respon
sible for one-half the principal of $100,000, and the interest of the whole,
amounting to $10,000 per year, payable in London. Although the Provin
cial debentures were given on their personal security, the money could not
be used for any other purpose than the canal extension to Lake Erie. Whilst
in York, Mr. M. prepared and got printed a circular for distribution amongst
the members, wherein he urges strongly the immediate undertaking of
the works on the St. Lawrence. By a careful and elaborate expose of data
respecting our commercial prospects, he proves the advantages which pro
ducers, merchants and consumers would derive from improving the river
route ; and although his speculations were based on the prospects of an
enormous increase in the trade of the St. Lawrence, yet the facts are there
shown that a ton weight of merchandise from Liverpool to Montreal, 3,000
miles, cost the importer thirteen shillings, whilst the cost of transporting
the same from Montreal to Prescott, a distance of 120 miles, reached the
Mgh figure oifour pounds, so that to those yet further west the charges on
articles imported by way of the St. La^-rence were simply proMbitory; and
we are not less pleased to see that in summing up his able arguments the
following patriotic language is used :
"It is a reproach upon the intelligence and enterprise of the country
that this improvement was not commenced long since. It should not te
delayed another year. If the present House cannot comprehend the supeii«
ority of a ship navigation, or do not feel satisfied that the present popuk-

130
tion of the western country demands it, there should be no hesitation in
appropriating £50,000 for a boat canal. The tolls will pay the interest
and redeem the principal without ever being felt."
Among the proceedings of Parliament that had an ultimate interest to
our subject, was the contested election for Haldimand, Mr. Brant protesting
against the return of Mr. Warren for that county. Mr. Warren still re
tained the seat when he was carried off by the cholera epidemic, and also
his opponent, when Mr. Merritt was elected to fill the vacancy.
A bill was also brought in by the Solicitor-General to prohibit Orange
processions, but was ineffectual, as many bloody riots can testify ; so that at
this time we see the evils of Old Country feuds beginning to awaken legis
lation. Mr. McKenzie, though in a minority, kept the House active
by his resolutions on the Chaplaincy ; and the debates on this question: fill
many pages of the papers of the day. The official returns of the population
of Upper Canada for 1830 were laid before the House, showing that there
were 211,187 persons in the Province — about the same number as tbe
city of New York contained. Having obtained the Government sanction,
tenders were immediately asked for, to complete the canal to the lake.
The debentures were negotiated by Mr. Yates, and the money obtained
from the Bank of the United States at the terms required ; and on tbe
meeting of the Directors in St. Catharines, on the 2nd of June, the con
tracts were let to different parties, amongst whom we notice the new
but now well known names of the Boyles and Bradleys. Improved
arrangements for the management of the canal were also made at this
meeting — their entire affairs thus devolving upon Mr. Merritt. Attention
and vigilance being the qualities necessary, competent assistants ware re
quired ; and from the items relative to shipping, which we find in the dif
ferent Journals of the day, we think also the canal was kept tolerably well
employed — as well as such a new work could be expected to be.
In June, Mr. Keefer was instructed to make a correct survey of the
boundaries of the canal, and Mr. Barrett, who had returned from his Mont
real survey, was appointed engineer over the new works. Mr. Merritt
also visited the different ports and places along Lake Erie in reference to
the quantity of grain likely to be shipped in the fall, and had completed
a dry dock near the lake, being the first in the country, for repairino-
vessels. One of the enterprises of this year was the opening of the grist mill,
now known as the " Red Mill," in St. Catharines, which was owned by Mr.
Oliver Phelps and W. H. Merritt.
"For the first time in our history," says the Buffalo Journal of the 10th
" August, "the rapids ofthe Niagara were overcome by the power of steam.
" The steamer W. Peacock, on Wednesday last, towed a schooner of 60 tons

131
" from Port Robinson to Buffalo, in 3 hrs. 50 min." The usual manner at this
time, was by towing the vessels along the Niagara river, and also by the
use of windlasses placed at the rapids. When the vessels were heavily
laden, the ascension had often to be delayed until a strong breeze from the
north came, which helped them to stem the current, especially at Fort
Erie. We see by the Canal Report that there was yet a large business
done by way of the portage between Queenston and Fort Erie — yet»
although the canal was in its infancy, it at once was given the preference
over this mode of transit, as a comparison of the year's traffic shews there
was more than half the valuable merchandise conveyed by canal : " By the
" canal— 30,000 barrels of flour. By land*— 11,000 barrels of flour. By
"canal— 210,000 bushels of wheat. By land— 6,500. Over 1,000,000 ft.
" of lumber passed through the canal, and only 2,000 ft. went by land," so
that already it may be said that the close of the portage, after over a
century's use, was sealed, by its more powerful and cheaper rival.
The work on the Lake Erie route progressed but slowly, through a
scarcity of hands, although liberal inducements were held out. The want
of canallers was sadly felt. Advertisements were inserted in the papers,
calling for hands ; and although a number of emigrants were daily arriving
from Europe, yet, the prospects of becoming producers, and getting a good
price through forwarding facilities, and lands being yet cheap, diverted
many to agriculture.
In August, Mr. Merritt, Mrs. Merritt, and the author, paid a visit to
the old family residence at Byrom, on Long Island Sound. Meeting there
others ofthe family from New Brunswick, this journey, like others at the same
time, was accomplished partly by stage, canal and steamboat, and was re
markable only for a part of it being gone over on a railway, one of the first
then completed in America. This road ran from Albany to Schenectady,
and at the time of our visit, had stationary engines for pulling the cars up
the grades. The cars, or rather coaches, were drawn by horses, on the
plateau between. The rails were of wood, covered with a band of iron.
And in all its extensions, for 10 or 12 years, our recollections of the trip are
still as being full of adventure, by land and water, particularly on the rail
road. We retumed by way of Oswego, on the 20th of September.
About this time Mr. Merritt formed a project for the pui-pose of establish
ing a Bank in St. Catharines, as, owing to the largely increased business
now transpiring in the old district, principally through the canal operations,
the want of a local monetary institution was felt in the vicinity. On the 1st
of October, a meeting was held, which was presided over by Mr. Merritt,
and Mr. H. Mittleberger acted as secretary. Messrs. Alexander McDonald,
W. H. Merritt, Robt. E. Burns, I. T. Bowery, H. Mittleberger, James
Little, and George Rykert, were appointed to draw up a petition founded

132
upon the resolutions of the meeting, and to apply to the Legislature for a
charter. The Parliament met on the 17th of November. The House was con
gratulated on the prosperous state of the country, and the rapid advance
ments making in its every quarter, especially its water commumcations,
which were principally in the upper country. The petition already alluded
to in reference to the establishing of the Bank was presented by Mr. John
' Clark, and a bill for the same purpose was brought before the House, but
was not carried this session.
Owing to the new ports of entry which were created by the opening of
the canal, considerable patronage was now in the hands of the Government
in the appointment of customs' officers, etc. It is but natural and reason
able to suppose that the infiuence of our subject on these matters would be
regarded, especially as he had been entrusted with the Company's patronage,
and as a consequence the coUectonship of customs at the new harbor of Port
Colborne was asked for from the Governor by Mr. Merritt for Ms old friend
and companion Col. John Clark, M.P. We think that there are few who
are aware of the part our subject took in the Welland Canal inception and
accomplishment, but will admit that he at least should have liberty to
solicit a favor for a tried friend. Yet such was not the case ; and, as is
usual when Government officers are wanted, a claimant appeared upon the
stage whose only connection with the canal lay in his being an agent for
subscribers at a distance who held £4,000 stock in the work, without any
further influence than being a military gentleman from home and a friend
of Sir John Colborne. Hearing that Mr. Merritt had requested that Mr.
Clark should get the appointment, this officer takes our subject to task in
the following manner: " * * * Jf you furnish ma with authority to with-
" draw your application for Mr. Clark, I shall let the matter rest as it is.
" If not, I shall consider it my duty to sea the Govemor immediately, and
•' give my own explanations of the whole transaction. I fear not for the
" result, if I choose to exert myself about the appointment."

1832.
As this may be said to have been a period of revolts, the good people of
Upper Canada were likely to be fumished with one on a small scale.
Tha re-election of Mr. Mackenzie, who had been expelled from the late
House, occured on the 2nd of January, in this year, amidst great demon
strations at the chairing. He was placed on the platform of a large sleigh
owned by Mr. Montgomery. They passed the Government and Parliament
Houses, followed by a large concourse of people carrying fiags, &c., on which

133
was conspicuous the motto ; " Liberty of the Press.'' Another was, "King
William IV. and Reform." — " Bidwell, and the glorious minority," (fee.
During the Spring, Mr. Mackenzie went to England with a petition
signed by 18,000 people, asking for the recall of the Governor, the dissolu
tion of the House, dec. The storm was dissipated for the present by political
meetings ; but the disputes then engendered, fomented by injudicious die-
tribution of official patronage, eventually grew to more importance than
even many of its chief actors supposed it would. Mr. Mackenzie was again
expelled, and declared ineligible to sit in the existing Assembly, but was
elected after the House was prorogued.
Among the acts for the extension of navigation introduced this session,
was one entitled " A Joint Stock Company, to improve the navigation of
the Grand River.''
The attention of our subject at this time was also occupied in getting
the canal in repair for the opening of navigation. Owing to the action of
the severe frosts, considerable damage was done to the work, by shifting
sands and slipping in of the banks, all of which he caused to be put in order.
By the 1st of May. the water was let in, navigation opened, and a brisk
trade was gomg on. The store-houses on the Grand River were filled with
produce from Cleveland, as the communication in that quarter was acces
sible from the lake, wMlst the Niagara river was yet blocked with ice.
During this period of excitement, we are not aware that Mr. Merritt
stayed in tha provincial capital, but devoted his whole attention to the
progress and interests of the Welland Canal.
By his memoranda dated 1 8th February, we see that he has the whole
scheme of the Grand River Navigation Co. matured ; and at the meeting
held under the provisions of the Incorporation Act, obtained the last session
of Parliament, he proposed the same. We sea by the report of this meeting, ,
on the 27th of February, that his ideas were adopted, and a company
formed to carry out the scheme — which consisted of dams, locks, and other
necessaries, to extend the navigation to Gait. The capital was $50,000,
divided into proportional shares.
The Canada Company had not taken any interest, after all their pro
testations in favor of the Welland. We see from their letters that they looked
at the Grand River in the same light. For this reason the extension further
than the rapids below Brantford was no longer entertained. "March 26th, 1832.
" It will be out of my power to attend your meeting, nor will Mr.
Dunlop be able to attend, either. He is now on his way to Lake Huron.
At the same time, they are willing to receive the advantages of the works.
" We are now making arrangements for the conveyance of emigrants
against the opening of navigation, and you will oblige by informing me
what means you have of carrying them through the Welland Canal, rate of
passage, rate of baggage, etc. J- Jones, Com. C. Co.

134
In answer :
" The forwarders are Northrop k Smith, who cany emigrants for 2s. 6d.
per head, and 6d. per cwt. for baggage."
About 50,000 emigi-ants from the British Islands anived in Canada,
principally o-wing to the change which the passing of the Reform Bill in
England had wrought on that country, although the Canada Company
claimed the credit of diverting them to tMs country, through their agents
in England. Another survey of the Grand River was undertaken, as the follo^wing
letter from Mr. Emery indicates :
"Two Miles above Davis's, 11th May, 1832.
" Dear Sir, — We have levelled from Highflyer's to this place, and fend
the rise in the water from Highflyer's to below Davis's dam 11^ feet. At
Davis's dam the water is 2.64, which makes the surface in the dam 13.89
feet above Highflyer's. I do not see any objection in making Davis's dam
the first dam, and from that make a cut to Highflyer's. The cutting is
exceedingly favorable by making two locks. We shall get up as far as you
required us to-night ; then we shall proceed to making our estimate for
damming the river, and Cushman can inform you concerning the plaster beds_
" Mr. James Da'vis has been exceedingly kind. We stayed with him
and he rendered us all the assistance we have requii-ed of them. Other
influential persons here take very little interest in the improvement of the
river. " Yours, truly, Wm. K. Emery."
"To W. H. Menitt, Esq,"
As previously mentioned, a great difficulty was experienced in getting
a sufficient number of men to make the works on the Lake Erie extension
go on, as was desired. But now, the ominous tidings of another and more
frightful obstructor was heard — and the alarming stories of its ravages in
the old world were wafted to the new, so that those who felt immunity from
the pests engendered in the confined cities of the Eastern Hemisphere, be
came alarmed on hearing of the arrival of Asiatic cholera on the Western
continent. Following in the track of the great tide of emigration now reaching
our shores, it appeared almost simultaneously in New York, Quebec, and
other cities on the sea-board. In a short time, its dire presence was felt —
almost as far westward as civilization had reached ; and in almost every
to-wn and hamlet, it carried its victims to the gi-ave. On the canal it
raged with great violence, falling like a thunderbolt among the workmen
and others. Strong men and women were stricken do-wn, to expire in its
agonizing grasp, and as each new name was added to the death roll a dread,
soon resulting in a panic, took place, which in a short time left the whilom
busy scene almost as quiet as the lone woods near by. A few only re
mained — those, probably, who could not leave, or whose philosophy was
stronger than their fears. Its effects were serious to all, as its appalling
presence cast a shadow and gloom over the country. During its prevalence

135 •
in tMs quarter, Mrs. Merritt and the family went to MayviUe, where its
influence was but little felt, but our subject remained at his post, and by
care on his part he providentially es3aped.
"Marshville, Welland Canal, Sunday, 21st July, 1832.
"My Dear Catherine : — •
"On Monday last, I breakfasted at Mrs. Bennett's, Grand River, on the
same kind of fish the boys and I caught at Chautauque lately.
" Left the dam on Monday, at 1 o'clock ; went to Greabel's. Heard that
the cholera had commenced its ravages that day at Gravelly Bay — three
deaths. Went on to the Bay that evening, and found Coonrod, a contractor,
(the man who married Miss Shaw,) with a man by the name of Henry,
working on the look, and one Ross, a labourer, at the same place, was dead,
and taken only that morning. Thrae or four others were considered dan
gerous. One only has since died, the others recovered.
"On Tuesday, went through the line with Mr. Lewis, and as no new cases
occured that day, the men. generally resumed their work.
"Slept at Holmes,' Deep Cut. That night Lewis was taken : in the
morning, (Wednesday) sent to St. Catharines, for Drs. Cross; and Converse,
who was up at Gravelly Bay. Lewis was very much alarmed, and
I could not leave him until Cross arrived about 2 o'clock ; Mr. Fuller had
bled him, and I gave him two pills of opium ; he got better immediately,
and is now well. Returned to Gravelly Bay that night, to quiet the minds
of the men respecting Mr. Lewis. We found all who got medical aid
and were bled, recovered ; as it was chiefly among the intemperate. Had
hopes of continuing the work, but on reaching Gravelly Bay, found Dr.
Ellis and Mrs. Boles had taken it. Remained there until 12 o'clock,
Thursday, and left for Dam with a determination to let every one take their
own course — stopping the sale of liquor, and providing doctors on the spot.
" Friday — went to Nelles' settlement. Saturday — returned to Dunnville,
and have got this far to breakfast ; am on my way to St. Catharines, where I
have not yet been. I thank God that I am in good health, and will take
every possible care of myself. Should the disease continue, I -will go over
to May ville next week : if not, will remain until the middle of August.
" With my best wishes and prayers for your safety,
" I remain your affectionate husband,
"W. H. Merritt."
On the approach of cold weather it gradually disappeared, and by degrees
those who fled on its approach returned, and things soon assumed their
wonted appearance.
On the 29th of September a flne schooner of 1 10 tons was successfully
launched at St. Catharines. This vessel was built by Russell Armington
for a company ; and as a compliment to our subject, was named the W. H.
Merritt, a name which, we believe, is held by one on the canal to the pre
sent day.
The following from Mr. Merritt's journal, among similar items, is in
serted to show that the scarcity of the circulating medium wes compensated
by the low price of labor. This transaction represents the one half value
of the old red mill, now called the Phoenix.

136
"5th August, 1832.— Sold Mr. Phelps my proportion in the Grist Mill,
at £1,125." Our subject having for several sessions represented the County of Hal
dimand during its early history, we insert a few items of interest prior to
its separation from the County of Lincoln :
The Six Nations Indians possessed six miles of land on each side of the
Grand River, from a grant by Gov. Haldimand, in 1784, the boundaries of
which were conflrmed by the Land Board of the District of Nassau in 1791.
Some of these lands were in process of being sold by the Indian Department
for the beneflt of the Indians. They also became stockholders in the navi
gation improvement. The Government still retained the river mouth. Mr.
Dixon owned Sherwood forest and swamp.
Mr. Smith, sheriff of Western District, obtained from Government
for his services, in procuring the rights of the North West Co., at Fort,
William, the year after the war, the Township ot Moulton. Some diffi
culties, induced Mm to obtain the legal services of D'Arcy Boulton.
Mr, B, afterwards appears as owner. From Mm, Mr. Oliver Phelps pur
chased tha three west lots of 150 acres each. These are where tha village of
Dunnville now stands. Mr. P. built Davis' grist and saw mill ; the material
for which was the first freight on the feeder. Mr. St. John, yet living at
St, Catharines, and Orson Phelps, (Mr. P.'s eldest son,) conducted the busi
ness. This property was shortly afterwards sold to Messrs. Street and
Merritt. The dispute relative to the representation of Haldimand, before referred
to, was settled by both the member and the protestor dying with the cho
lera, and thereby leaving the riding vacant. A very respectable requisition -
from the electors was presented to Mr. Merritt, requesting Mm to offer'
himself as a candidate. At the urgent request of his friends, and particu
larly of Jlr. Yates, who told him he could benefit the canal and Grand River
prospects better by being in the House, ha accepted tha nomination. His
opponent, Mr. DaCew, was a man of great respectability and local influence.
But the material benefits which our subject was the means of developing in
the locality, particularly to those settlers beyond the river, who, previous
to the building of the dam and other works had very imperfect means of
communication with the back country during the summer months, enabled
him to carry the election, which commenced on 30th Oct., and terminated on
the 2nd of November.
During the election he -was ably assisted by his old comrade. Col. J-
Clarke, and Mr. Randall. The following letter from the Colonel gives a
good idea of how the contest want in Haldimand at that time. Writing
to Mr. Martel, deputy post-master at St. Catharines, the electric telegraph
being undreainpt of, he says :

137
«**-«¦ The ball opened yesterday at 10 o'clock. Mr. Merritt, Mr.
DeCew, C. Richardson and W. J. Kerr are candidates. The latter is
strenuously opposed to Mr. M. There has been much speechifying, and
much villifying, on the occasion, and very little to the purpose unless from
Mr. Merritt. DeCew is strongly supported by Mr. Thorbum, W. and R.
Woodruff, and A. Brown, all for the frontier interest. Mr. M. keeps up
his spirits, and shows himself superior as a public man. His management
gains him friends. Since I have been here I have seen much change in his
favor. He ¦will receive the suffrages of the honest yeomanry of the county,
as the Hoovers, Griebels, etc. The Opposition are much out at Mr. Ran
dall and myself. We were told we had better be in our seats at York.
All I hope is that when we go we shall have Mr. Merritt along with us."
When the result was known, the most unbounded enthusiasm was dis
played along the canal, and the people of St. Catharines gave way to expres
sions of good feeling on a scale of grandeur surprising for the times. We
see by the Journal that an illumination took place, and all the parapher
nalia of general rejoicings were indulged in.
The Parliament opened on the 31st of October, and Mr. Merritt,
immediately after his return, proceeded to York ard took his seat. He
was soon afterwards placed upon the Finance Committee. One of the first
acts during this session was to ask for a select committee to inquire into
the management of the affairs of the Welland Canal, thereby answering
the inuendoes which had been hurled against him by Mr. McKenzie and
other opponents to that great work, and is in keeping ¦with the general
tenor of his acts. We also find that his maiden speech was one in favor
of a motion, moved by Mr. Frasier, which strongly urged a free trade in
grain and cattle coming in fron^ the States, as the following will shew :
" Fealbt's, St. John Street,
" 10th November, 1832.
" Mt Dear C.:—
" My friends here appear to be highly gratified with my election, and I
assure you my situation is far more comfortable to my own feelings — I now
feel a degree of independence in being on an equality with those, who before
could say what they pleased without my having a chance of replying — the
situation is new, but I do not feel that embarrassment I expected. I have
already broken the ice. The first day I took my seat, made two motions and
one speech on admission of articles, duty free from U. S.
"William H. Merritt."
During this session he strongly advocated the bill, which in some shape
or another had been before the House for several sessions, for the abolition
of imprisonment for debt, and his speech thereon was considered a very
convincing one, as the outrages committed under the license to imprison
were of the most grievous kinds. In his remarks he stigmatized the law
as a relic of barbarism, and although, he said, the lawyers would not like
the proposed change, yet the interests of humanity, common sense and

138
reason were in^favor of it. He mentioned numerous cases of false arrests,
showing the abuse of the law ; that it was also the cause of crime and per
jury ; that, in nine cases out of ten, it proved, ineffectual to recover the
amount claimed. He narrated a long list of cases wMch came to his own -
knowledge, wherein persons were immured in prison at the instance of a
lawyer — many times his clerk ; where many of the parties did not owe any
one ; where exhorbitant bills of costs were tacked on ; and that, on the
whole, there was no satisfaction to the creditor, as the expensive machinery
of the law required all that could be wrung from both plaintiff and de
fendant to satisfy the costs; and concluded an eloquent speech by stating
that the law was in antagonism with justice ; was abhomed by Turks and
infidels, who thereby formed a low opinion of men who called themselves
Christians ; and was only a lever of tyranny in the hands of a fraternity
whose only thoughts were the filling of their own purses. Although the
bill did not becoine law by receiving the royal assent at this time, yet the
discussion on it had such an effect that the sensibilities of the leading ad
vocates were turned, and the evils then complained of were suffered to sink
into oblivion, regi-etted by none save the most hardened in the pro
fession. Whilst the House was in session he found time to write "and publish a
pamphlet on the inland navigation of the Canadian Provinces, wherein 1 e
shows the manifold j^dvantages which the country would gain by an exten
sive system of canal navigation. In it he urged the abolition of the bound
ary line between Upper and Lower Canada. It contained suggestions of
the greatest importance to this growing country. The pamphlet was signed
"A Projector," and its effects were such that a commission was appointed
to investigate the subject. It was composed of Messrs. Monis, Robinson,
Solicitor-General, Attorney-General, Merritt, Samson and Chisholm, of
which he was appointed chairman, who during the session made extensive
inquiry, and gathered a large amount of information on the subject, which
led to a bill being brought into the House and passed, whereby the sum of
£10,000 was gi-anted towards the proposed St. Lawrence canals, showing
that the spirit of enterprise which commenced in uniting Lakes Erie and
Ontario was now preparing to overcome the Mtherto inaccessible rapids
of the St. Lawrence, and open the way to Montreal and the ocean without
waiting for the co-operation of the people from Lower Canada.
An application was made by the Welland Canal Company for a loan of
£25,000, on which Mr. Merritt in a letter says : " This week the Welland
" Canal question will come up, but there appears little chance of success.
" Our Bank bill will not pass the Upper House. The Salt Works incor-
" poration has passed."
An application was also made from the Welland Canal to the Parlia
ment of Lower Canada for a loan, but was coolly received, so that the com-

139

pany were for the present compelled to look to other sources for the funds
required to complete the work to Port Colbome.
Up to this date the total expenditure on the canal had been £346,000.

1833.
As the experience and confessions of a new member of Parliament do
not often come under the eyes of the public, the following letter to Dr.
Prendergast may be interesting, as it better explains the feelings and the
spirit in which Mr. Merritt entered Parliament than anything we can give :
"York, 5th January, 1833.
i< ¦» * -* After my return from Chatauque, I was solicited by a
deputation from the inhaMtants of the county of Haldimand to stand for a
candidate. I consulted Mrs. M. on the subject, who, with her usual good
sense, asisented, conceiving that a part of my time would be required here
on account of the canal. I succeeded against a violent opposition, and came
in as what we term a Tory member. I was immediately selected on the
most important committees, and have applied myself industriously to the
different subjects. The greatest difficulty I experienced was in speaking.
I was forced to break the ice, the first day I took my seat, on the subject
of duties on goods from the United States passing our wa.ters, and it hap
pened, fortunately, to be one I understood. The only questions in which
I take an interest are, improving our water communication, abolishing im
prisonment for debt, extending the jurisdiction of our magistrates, and
annexing Montreal to this Province, so that we may obtain a port of entry.
On the second and third items I have had the misfortune to contend against
the lawyers ; we have seven in the House, most of whom, directly or indi
rectly, oppose those measures, and you are aware that they are no feeble
opponents in any Legislature. It is my intention, as soon as the Welland
Oanal question gets disposed of, to leave this business ; and, although it is
much pleasanter to be in the House than waiting in attendance, I find
legislation so tedious that I am heartily tired of it, and if I remain in the
same way of thinking I will never return again."
The following letter to Mr. T. Menitt, Senior, will give an insight into
paoliamentary affairs at this period : "York, 7th January, 1833.
"Respected Sir, — The House frequently opens without a quorum.
The hon. member for Haldimand styles us a lazy lot. Altogether, I must
say a great deal has not as yet emanated from their united wisdom : it will
come, I suppose, by and by. Myself and the hon. member for Haldimand
are all ready and at breakfast by 9 o'clock every morning. We enter the
House before or at 10. The working members go in committee and take
their seats in the hall to bring forward measures or debate. About 1, a
lunch is set at our quarters, which the messenger keeps in readiness for us,
adding a glass of beer, when we go on with our work until 6, when we
proceed to our quarters, next door to Chief Justice's. Beer, whiskey or
wine, as you like, for dinner. Generally retire to a well furmshed sitting
room, the member for Haldimand preparing matter for the House. He is
¦well, but wearing himself out for Upper Canada. ^

140
" 15th. — Mr. Merritt might have been one of the St. Lawrence com
missioners, but declined the honor."
" As regards the Welland Canal, I cannot bring myself to think that
this, the most enlightened Parliament in the annals of Upper Canada, will
abandon so great a work before it is brought fairly into existence. We
have been voting away money for the improvement of ourselves and tbe
country, and among the many thousands what do you think we have had
the magnanimity to vote 1 — £7,500 to the Welland Canal — not half of
what is required. We will take it, and trust our private means for the
residue. J. Clark."
During the session he was identified with the War Losses Bill, the
Grand River Improvement Act, and several other important measures,
which occupied the House until its adjournment, 3rd of February.
The foreshadowing of the fate of the company appeared, strangely
enough at this time, in a communication to the merchants of New York :
"Albany, February 12, 1833.
"Did not know what to answer. If I shall be required to make any
further sacrifice, it would at least be proper that tha full proposition should
be known. Your continued suggestion for a sale, or rather an offer to sell,
to the Government, is particularly painful to me. * * We have every
reason to cherish a confident hope of full success. * * A year or two
more will prostrate all opposition, and remove the delusion of the public.
If I shall prove to be deluded myself, I hope at least to satisfy my friends
that the loss of my prr perty, if fairly lost, will not distress my quiet.
" J. B. Yates."

"The Welland Canal will most probably pass from the hands of indi
viduals into that of tha Government, negotiations between the parties
having, it is believed, already taken place. An Old Merchant."
The pecuniary difficulties were very great at this time. Almost every
thing in the shape of property they possessed was mortgaged. The Bank
of Upper Canada refused them any more credit, much to the mortification
of tha Directors, who in reality considered the Bank under an obligation
to the company.
During the attendance at the Legislature, the business of the canal was
not neglected.
A rather sharp correspondence occurred between the President and tbe
Agent, which resulted in their both tendering their resignations.
" 1st February, 1833.
" I have no objection at all to the arrangement proposed by you, and
will join with those named, bearing a share of my part of it. This -will
relieve me from the Bank engagement, of course, which I shall be most
happy to see off the Bank books, as the sole engagement for that sum of
money, and secures my name as a creditor to the large amount.
" Yours, truly, John H. Dunn."
" P.S. — This will also settle my advance of £250, of which I stand in
want, as well as yours, if you can make it convenient before you leave
York. « J. H. D,"

141 " York, 6th February, 1833.
" Dear Sir, — You have my perfect concurrence to do anything you
please. What I intended to do I have, in consequence, of your letter,
withheld. I shall not put my name to any instrument whatever which
may make me liable to pay what I cannot, and perhaps may involve me.
You may think as you like ; I have my own opinion, which shall guide me.
" I am. Sir, ypurs, obediently, John H. Dunn.''

"York, 7th February, 1833.
" My Dear Sir, — The course I intended when I became responsible
for a loan to pay off the debts due to the Welland Canal contractors, was
precisely what I was willing to do — that I would give my bond for my pro
portion of £12,000, but not be liable for the whole amount. There is no
person who can lament the situation of the contractors more than I do, and
if I could I would afford them relief I cannot agree with you, however,
that there can be any discredit to the Welland Canal Company. The con
tractors from the commencement have had a full knowledge of the com
pany's affairs, and have been told, for guarding them against difficulties
which might occur in the progress of the work. We have, more from
accident than good fortune, been able to sustain good faith. You must
remember that you have laid the case and our embarrassments before Par
liament, who have more interest in the canal and its beneflt to the Colony
tban the shareholders. If discredit fall upon the company, and certainly
it will, let it fall on those who deserve it. I certainly cannot hazard to
maintain the credit of the Welland Canal Company, a property which does
not belong to me.
" I felt gi-ieved at your note of yesterday, and think you misunderstood
me, or I did not fully explain my intention regarding the extent of my
security, but I did mean exactly what I was willing yesterday to perform.
We have been engaged together in a work perhaps the most arduous and
embarrassing that ever was undertaken in any country. Another such I
would not have anything to do with for the whole value of the Province.
My good wishes towards you are unabated, and the good feeling you so
kindly express toward myself and Mrs. Dunn I fully reciprocate ; and allow
me to close by hoping that the friendship which has ever existed between
us may not be impaired by a moment's anger on either side, and tliat we
mutually look upon each other as friends, whether as canalers or indi
viduals. Sincerely yours, John H. Dunn."

"York, 12th February, 1833.
" My Dear Sir, — I am particularly engaged this evening, as Mr. Mc
Donald is here. You can have a Board without me, competent to transact
any business. I have so much labor to perform for the Proyince this year
in my own office, that it -will be wholly out of my power to leave York.
It is therefore my intention to withdraw from the canal, and cannot under
any circumstances incur further responsibility on account of the canal. It
is therefore unnecessary, under the circumstances, for me to attend.
"Yours, truly, J. H. Dunn."
A meeting of the Board was held in York on the 13th of February, and
the subject ofraising money to pay off the debts owing on the canal, to the

142
amount of £11,000, was discussed. Owing to the Government holding a
mortgage on the hydraulic works, the Company did not receive any benefit
from the money paid by Mr. Yates for the same, but now they agi-eed to
relinquish the mortgage to the company, on their giving a bond and pledg
ing themselves to spend the same in paying off the minor debts, etc. In
this meeting Mr. Merritt informed the company that the work was com
pleted, and, flnding his duty to his constituents would be neglected, be
therefore tendered his resignation, which was not, however, accepted at this
time. Another meeting was held in St. Catharines on the 18th of Feb
ruary, when the resignation of Mr. Dunn as President was tendered, but
not accepted at this time.
The next meeting was at St. Catharines, 27th of February, but for want
of attendance it was resolved that Capt. Creighton and George Keefer be
summoned forthwith by a special messenger. When, at the adjourned meet
ing, it was resolved that a communication be made to the commissioners
appointed by the Legislature of the necessity that one of them should give
his personal attendance. The 1st of June meeting after that consisted of
but four members.
Although the House at its last session did not grant the company ^the
loan asked for, yet the Government, for the flrst time since the inception
of the canal, took up the balance of the unsold stock, to the amount of
£7,500, and three commissioners, viz., A. Slade, J. McAuley and W. B.
Robinson, were appointed to superintend the division of the same, by tMs
means they were enabled to push on the work to Gravelly Bay, so that by
June the first vessel — the schooner Matilda, from Oak-ville — passed through
to Cleveland by Port Colbome.
Under the circumstances, Mr. Merritt was authorized to proceed to
York with a statement of their affairs, and lay the same before the Gover
nor ; also, to make application there or elsewhere, as he thought fit. In
the midst of this dilemma, Mr. J. B. Yates again came forward, and raised
them sufficient money to finish the new harbor at Port Colborne, which
was now declared a port of entry, and by permission named after the
Lieutenant-Governor, Sir John Colborne.
The regular annual meeting of the Canal Board was held at St. Catha
rines on the 5th of June, and our subject, who had pre-viously tendered his
resignation as agent, was now, at the election of Directors, chosen as one of
them. When the election of the executive was proceeded with, Mr. Merritt
was chosen President and Alex. McDonnell, Esq., Vice-President.
The following item is inserted to show tha value of village property at
this time. Through the absence of paper currency these figures represent
a greater value than at the present day:
" 22nd April, 1833.— Mr. Phelps bought half of the North side on Lake
Road to Niagara, (now Niagara Street) at $75 per acre."

143
On the 6th of June, rates of toll were settled upon, and anangements
made for building a lighthouse at Port Colbome, and also for putting down
another pier at that place. Mrs. Merritt, in returning from Chatauque,
passed through Port Colbome, accompr nied by her family, and thus de
scribes her visit to that locality : " At the stone bridge which crosses the
" canal we met Mr. Grebel," (who, with Mr. Hoover, was the leader of the
Mennonites in this section, and a strong supporter of Mr. Merritt) " who
" invited us to go up and spend a night at his house. We walked from the
" bridge up to the bay, l^ miles. There we met T. Merritt and Mr. Ran-
" daU. There was a vessel coming into the lock, some boats, etc. The
"ground here is all marsh on both sides of the canal. There is a small
" ridge, -with one white house and a store, and some shanties. We accepted
" Mr. Grebel's invitation to his home, promising to see the Sugar Loaf. The
'' road is very pleasant up there for four miles, winding through the trees,
" -with the hill on the left, and a large marsh or pond, three miles long and
" about one broad, on our right. We tried to count the eagles' nests in
" the tops of the trees ; there were six or seven of them. Mr. P. and J.
" went to the top of the Loaf, but the leaves were too thick to have a good
" view. * * On Thursday morning we took another road to the bridge.
" Saw several vessels pass, and a small steamboat, which makes a trip
" round from Buffalo down to Chippewa and up the marsh every second day."
Tliat the canal was now rapidly coming into public use is seen from a
statement published in the Journal, showiiig that from the 1st to the 20th
of June in this year, 34 vessels had passed up the canal and 20 went down,
and mthe following month 219 schooners, 138 boats and scows, and 30 rafts,
loaded with produce of all descriptions.
Mr. W. L. McKenzie, who had been in London for more than a year,
retumed to Canada in August. While there he had* interviews with Mr.
Stanley, Mr. Poulette Thompson, and others, in reference to the colonial
difficulties. He was enthusiastically received on his arrival at York.
A time-honored institution lost its usefulness about this time, though
called in exercise at the breaking out of hostilities. It was the Court of
Quarter Sessions, or Board of Magistrates, held for this district at Niagara,
which had existed from the first settlement of the country, and was com
posed of the leading men. It now gave place to what was known as the
Court of Requests, having a smaller' territory but a more extended jurisdic
tion, and was in that sense the germ of our present expensive and inefficient
municipal system.
For the first time since the opening of the canal a serious break occurred
at lock 2, the four gates of which were carried away by a schooner on the
night of the 5th of September. No spare gates being ready, navigation was
suspended for a week, and Mr. Merritt in a letter mentions that, owing to

144
the urgency of the case, he had again commenced to give his personal atten
tion to the canal until matters were placed in a better shape.
As it may be interesting to the members of the Loyal Canadian Society,
we flnd that in the early part of October, arrangements were made in
Hamilton to celebrate the glorious battle of Queenston by a dinner, to take
place on the 14th of October, (the 13th being Sunday,) the Hon. James
Crooks consenting to preside on the occasion.
On the 7th of October, died at his residence in St. Catharines, our old
friend Job Northrop, deeply lamented by the village community as a most
generous and warm-hearted man — sincere in his actions, and beloved by all
who knew him.
After superintending the repairs, and attending to other duties on the
canal Mr. Merritt now prepared to attend his place in the Legislature,
which opened on the 19th of November. One of his flrst acts was to mtro-
duce a Bill — having for its object the relief of those religious sects known
as .Mennonites and Quakers, who, previous to the passing of this Aot, la
boured under serious disabilities.
Notwithstanding the fact that William Lyon McKenzie's last expulsion
from the House was ditepproved of by the Imperial Government, and that
two of his most active apponents, Messrs. Bolton and Hagarman, were
deprived of their offices, as a conciliatory proceeding ; yet, it was apparent
that at the opening of this Session, Mr. Mackenzie wished to become of
imore importance, having been again returned for the County of York, pre
sented himself in the House for the purpose of taking his seat. He was ac
companied by a large body of his supporters, who filled the bar and galleries,
and during the debate which arose in reference to his admission, behaved in
a most boisterous manner, by alternately cheering and hissing the speakers
 expressing like or dislike. The intimidation was carried to such a pitch,
that the speaker ordered the House to be cleared of all outsiders ; and on
the vote being taken for McKenzie's admission, a majority of four was fotmd
against him : McKenzie's organ, the " York Advocate," bitterly attacked our
subject for his vote on this occasion, and the language used towards Mr.
Merritt was uncalled for, yet failed to influence him in the smallest degree,
as his conduct to Mr. Mackenzie on all occasions was such that we believe
he felt more inclined to pity him than anything else. Mr. Merritt's speech
on this occasion shows conclusively that-although he was inclined to be gen
erous to a fault, yet he still retained sufficient respect for his character as
a member not to permit himself to be bullied by faction. He said " he had
come down to the House yesterday to vote that Mr. Mackenzie should take
his seat, but his conduct would have induced him to vote hini out of the
Assembly, even if he had been a sworn member. Had not his supporters
assumed the character of a mob — hissing down one set of men, and crying

146
up another. He was disgusted with the disgraceful scene, and their conduct
brought back to his memory the worst days of Revolutionary France, die.''
Owing to the bad roads, he was compelled to remain in York during
the Christmas holidays, and in a letter written home on the 1st of January
1834, he says, " he spent the day with Mr. Yates, in calling on the Gover
nor, and some of the gentry of York."
In the Legislature he introduced Bills on the subject of mantaining the
poor, and on emigration, besides moving for a committee to enquire into
tbe law of arrest in civil cases.

1834.
After the holidays, tha business of the Legislature was carried on as
usual. The work commenced in the House was not very important, con
sisting principally of private legislation. Amongst the questions brought
forward, was another petition from the Welland Canal Company, for a grant
of £25,000, to enable them to pay off some of their indebtedness. From the
able manner in which our subject advocated the claims of tha Company, in
the House, he made a number of friends therein; many of whom were now,
perhaps for the flrst time, convinced that this canal was not a mere private
speculation, but a work upon which the country could look with pride, and
one which, in after years, would become a monument to the perseverance of
its supporters. A long and warm debate on the question occured, and finally
emerged into the idea of the Government purchasing the entire work from
the Company. The results were, that the capital stock was permitted to be
increased to £250,000, and the Government subscribed towards the same
tbe sum of £50,000, thereby enabling the Directors to pay off numerous
small debts, and also put the canal in good working order. As previously
noticed, after Mr. Merritt gave up the duties of agent, and was appointed
President of the Company, the same vigilance was not displayed in the
management of the work as was observed during his direct superinten
dence. Several delays occurred, and not a few breaks in locks and banks,
already told that a work of this kind required the earnest attention of an in
terested man. He, after what had transpired, took charge of the works
personally, as we see by the following letter to Doctor Prendergast :
St. Catharines, March 17th, 1834.
" I have again turned my particular attention towards the canal. They
have given me a salary of $1,600 per year, as president, and full control af
the works."

146
In a man's family letters, we see the motives of his actions more than in
his publications, speeches, or votes. We have seen from these letters, that
Mr. Merritt disliked the contracted role of an M. P. P., and would rather
get rid of the Welland Canal. He argued that the direction of tha canal, now
that it had passed by its many windings from lake to lake, though its
having the Erie for a feeder, was only a matter of time ; the work could
be carried on by any man of moderate attention to his business. Yet, the
disasters in carrying away four lock gates, for which no adequate provision
had been made, with the settling and caving in of work laid in frosty wea
ther, showed plainly enough to all interested in the work, that the same at
tention was necessary for keeping it up as had started it, Mr. Merritt
had not let pass, while in the company's service, opportunities for private
advancement by investing in both the terminus at Port Colborne and
Dunnville, and natural instincts would be excited to improve them for bis
rising family.
We have assumed that duty and honor were the key note of all his trans
actions. The Canal Board by both public and private accounts, depended upon
the lobbying process, (another name for begging from the Government,) for
means to pay its obligations ; and we have seen, direct or implied, that he
had been the prompter in inducing stockholders and contractors to go on
with it. For a man with but half Ms conscientiousness, this must have been
fraught with uneasiness, and we cannot wonder that he embraced the first op
portunity that occured last year, of gracefully retiring from it.
At this time, a sermon from his respected pastor at York, fell in to add
weight to the public side of the balance. " Sunday, 2nd March, 1834.
" My Dear Catherine :
"I have this day heard a most e.xcellent practicable sermon from Arch.
deacon Strachan, from the following text : ' To him that hath, shall be given"
and from him that hath not, even that which he hath shall be taken away.'j
He applied it to the various pursuits of life. Those whom the Almio'bty
had favoured with any peculiar talent, rose to eminence, was entrusted by
his fellow men with the control and direction of their property - and if a
man of industry, application, and honesty, he would continue to increase, by
commanding the respect and confidence of his fellow men, as well as Divine
favour. Urged strongly the absolute necessity of persevering in those
qualities ; and the moment ha departed from them, and gave himself up to
sensual and worldly gratification, the Divine favour, as well as the confidence
of men, would be taken from Mm, and the text in that case would assuredly
ba verified. ' By a steady perseverance, and close attention to them, I have been re
markably favoured this session in carrying through the House those measures
in which I have felt an interest."
Noticing his return from his parliamentary duties, and canal matters :—
"I am interested in the Grand River navigation, and would remove
there. I have purchased one half of 200 acres at Gravelly Bay but will

147
make no decision till I see you. It is an important subject — not so much
in a pecuMary point of view, as with prudence, we need be under no-
apprehension from that score, but for our family."
During the session, he also obtained from the Government increased
postal facility on the route of the canal, so that Port Robinson, Lyon's
Creek, and Port Colborne wei-e given Post Offices, which was a great con
venience to the settlers who lived there. To his untiring exertions are the
people of Dunnville and the country lying beyond the Grand River, indebted ;
by a great deal of perseverence, he succeeded in getting a grant of £1,500
from the Government, with which to construct a good bridge over the Grand
River, on the foundation used for the dam at Dunnville, and a large grant for
roads. So that, with Ms parliamentary and other labours, we assume that
Ms time was well occupied during this long session, which la.sted nearly five
months. Ha also had the satisfaction of seeing £350,000 granted towards
the works now in progress on t'he St. Lawrence Canals — which were to bo
bmlt with stone locks of large capacity, kc.
During this winter he corresponded with Mr. W. Allan and Mr.
Ridout on the subject of a branch Bank in St. Catharines. His ideas on
the subject of Banking were, we know, opposed to private corporations,
belie-ying that the profits derived from such undertakings should belong to
the country, and a general Pro-vincial Institution established to control the
monetary affairs. But in this instance he was prepared to do the best for
his locality, and strongly tried to have a Branch from the Bank of Upper
Canada established here ; without success, however, principally owing to
the facts that a Branch was established in Niagara, and afterwards through
Mr. Street's influence, in Chippawa ; and also in consequence of a large
portion of tha stock being owned by frontier men, who were naturally favor
able to it.
On the 6th of March in this year, the flourishing little town of York be
came, by act of Parliament, a city; taking for its future name the beautiful
Indian word " Toronto," having for its first Chief Magistrate, Mr. William
Lyon McKenzie. The author visited the capital, and spent a short time
attending the debates, and in the society of the half-dozen members who
lodged there ; he was particularly struck with the contrast of their grave
demeanour in the House, and their hearty unbending, even to jocularity,
out of it. He was listener during the discussion of that question to many
remarks on the ambitious aspirations of muddy Little York. Now that the
prospects of an improved communication with the ocean presented itself,
the -mind of our subject turned upon the possibility of having free markets
for the grain of Western Canada, in the harbours of the British islands ;
and in consequence thereof he busied himself to bring about an understand
ing -with the Imperial Government, whereby the grain duties might be abo
lished in the United Kingdom, so that our farmers could enter their market

148
on the same footing as those from Scotland, Ireland, or other parts of the
British Empire. The address framed in the spirit of these ideas passed tbe
Assembly by a large majority.
During the long session there were many applications for his influence
for both public and private interests, for his own and other countries, for
roads, bridges, and Post Offices — and one for five years protection for a
glass company, by Samuel Wood, of Grantham.
A letter, with subscription list, was received from the Reverend E.
Creen, of Niagara, soliciting his influence in building an Episcopal
Church near the German Lutheran Church, at Thorold. An application
was then made to the Bishop, and the following shews the views of Dr.
Strachan on the request. Extract from the Very Reverend Archdeacon
Strachan : "York, 21st February 1834.
" Dear Sir:
" I am of opinion that the members of our church have a right to have
the ministration of religion afforded them gi-atis, as in England, from tbe
cleigy reserves. And, were the friends of the church to exert themselves,
as they ought to do, the hypocrites and infidels who seek to appropriate
the lands to other purposes, would soon be defeated." " Yours truly,
" To W. H. Merritt, M. P. "J ohn Strachan."
The session of Parliament, which closed its labors on the 6th of March,
was a remarkable one in many respects, as it may be said to have been tbe
last Parliament where the Loyalist element, devoted with a single eye to tbe
interests of the country, were assembled. Numerous are the cases which
serve to show, at this time, that a public spirit, and a feeling of true loyalty
to the land of their birth and the British Crown, animated them on all oc
casions ; where the country at large was likely be be benefitted, they voted
liberally. To many it may seem strange, when reading of the large sums then
devoted to improvements and public works, that other ideas should encourage
the Government in such an expense; and in- all probability Mr. Merritt or
Mr. Yates might have talked or written for years, without accomplishing
anything. But when we see the appropriations springing up from tens to
hundreds of thousands of pounds, we are apt to conclude that a new spirit
was infused into the rulers of the country ; and that things, owing to a
general period of prosperity, an accumulation of internal wealth, and an
extraordinary influx of emigrants -with sufficient means to possess and cul
tivate the new lands — all combined to make the Government think that
the time had now arri-ved when public improvements must be pushed on ;
and that the growing wants of the country required a wider and bolder
policy to keep pace with the demands of the time.
The important question of the Welland Canal becoming public property,
was long and earnestly discussed during this session ; and after a debate

149
which occupied four days, the motion of Mr. Robinson, that the works be
come the property of the country, was carried by a majority of one. Thus
were the cherished ideas of Mr. Merritt, who always looked upon the canal
as a great national work, flrst recognized by the Parliament of the country :
and although the Government did not actually assume the work until eight
years afterwards, when all opposition to the measure had ceased, and when
its practicability for all commercial purposes were fully tested and acknow
ledged — yet the question was laid open for the consideration of the people ;
and had it not been for the troubles which afterwards ensued, might have
been sooner accomplished to the benefit of all concerned.
Duiing February of this year, the first serious public agitation, which
afterwards resulted in a rebellion which drew Upper Canada into its wake,
occured in Quebec, by the presentation of the historic ninety-two resolutions
to the Parliament of that Province by M. Papineau. A great deal of ex
citement was manifested in the Upper Province, and it being previous to a
general election, the newspapers of the time were full of speculations on the
effect those resolutions would have on the country at large. The resolutions
passed the Lower Canada House on the 1 2tli of February, and Mr. Morin
was afterwards deputed to proceed with them to England, and lay them be
fore the Imperial Government.
In the early part of May Mr. M. left home to attend a meeting at Nel
les's settlement, on the Grand River, as the works on that section were not
prospering as well as desired. In the month of April he had offered through
the newspapers a reward of $100 for the best model of a lock and dam for
the Grand River, the pattern to be shewn at this meeting.
At a meeting of the New Court of Requests, held in Niagara the early
part of July, Mr. Merritt was unanimously chosen Chairman of the Court,
As ono of the results of the Canal, and his visit up the Grand River, we
may mention, that at this time we find that a large schooner is nearly
finished, and a steamboat on the stocks at Dunnville — and that the works
for the improvement of the Grand River are now fairly underway.
In August, a slight panic was felt, from the fact that the cholera had
again appeared: although its effects were felt for a short time in Quebec and
Montreal, yet, fortunately, the smaller towns throughout the interior, did
not suffer to any remarkable extent. Mr. Merritt's time was kept fully oc
cupied, during the recess, with the canal, where several breaks occured ; and
owing to the gr.eat increase in the traffic, it required t'le most careful atten
tion to keep up the confidence of shipping, as the canal was now apparently
taxed sometimes e^-en beyond the capacity of its wooden locks. The con
tracts for the work on the St. Lawrence Canals, with stone locks, were now
given out, and the prospects of busy times for some years, is noticed in the
journals of that time. The turning of the first sod took place on the 10th
or 12th of August.

150
Early in the season Mr. Merritt went, as noticed, to the Grand River,
to attend a meeting at Nellis' settlement, (now York.) This meeting was
held for the purpose of re-organizing tha Grand River Improvement Co'y,,
as the previous officers and directors of that Company had failed to accom
plish anything of real benefit. The old officers ware replaced by tha follow
ing gentlemen, -viz : James Winnett, President, — W. H. Merritt, S. Street,
D. Thompson, and W. Richardson, Dii-ectors, A new subscription list was
opened, and capital stock about £50,000 subscribed ; our subject alone tak
ing one thousand shares, of $25 each, in the undertaking, besides taking
for his relations and friends 1,400 more shares, viz : N. Merritt, N. B.,
1,000, Henry Yates, 200, and A, Mclntyre, 200.
Two other enterprises occupied his attention this year, viz : the erecting
of the large stone arist mills at Port Colborne and St. Catharines ; the
former being a steam mill, owned by our subject and his friends, under the
management of Mr, Slate; and since purchased, with a large amount of
property, by the Government, when the enlargement of the canal took place.
The mill at St. Catharines was his own property, and was of great benefit
to the town, and country adjacent, both as a custom and manufacturing in
stitution. About the middle of September, the writs for a new election in the
Province were issued. In Haldimand, Mr, Merritt was opposed by Hill,
Fitch, and C. McKenzie, but was returned by the handsome majority of 53
votes. In Lincoln, Mr. Geo, Rykert was elected over Ms Radical opponent,
Darling. Mr. Merritt gave Mr. Rykert a strong support on this occasion,
having assisted him during his canvass, as long as he possibly could. The
. result of the elections were, however, favourable to the Radical party — and
during the interim before the opening of the House, many were the specu
lations and opinions indulged in, as to its effects upon the country.
The important discovery of coal, was made in the State of Ohio, during
this year ; and it was exjjected that the canal, and the country generally,
would be greatly benefitted by the same.
In November, Sir J. Colborne visited the works on the Grand River
and was pleased with the great progress made in that section.
A letter to Mrs. Prendergast, discloses the state of feeling of our subject,
on the close of this year's business :
"St, Catharines, November 23rd, 1834.
"Dear Mother :
"The Welland Canal has closed for the season, and I hope to have more
liesure than heretofore.
" The boys are all growing finely : they appear to possess full as great
capacity as we can expect at their age. They are learning the higher branches
of education, getting on well, and appear desirous to please. I trust you
will find a great improvement in their manners also. We have a good
school near us, so that we possess the double advantage of having them at
home. I remain at home until after the holidays, so that we only want your

151
and father Prendergast 's society to render us as comfortable as falls to the
lot of human beings. His being with the boys, after a few weeks, would
impart great satisfaction and instruction to them, and would be equally
pleasing to him. We keep a pair of horses, single and double sleigh, and
have every convenience we need to make us comfortable. For my own
part, I am so thoroughly satisfied we are so much better off, and every way
happier than we deserve, that my only melancholy reflection is, at times,
that it will not continue — but this train of feeling I endeavour to check,
and place my dependance wholly on the A 11- wise and just Providence, who
alone sends us that peace of mind that I think we all realize, and feel most
grateful to Him for permitting us to possess. We have, been over to
spend the day with father and mother. He is feeble, but better. Mother
in good health. Believe me.
My dear mother,
Faithfully and dutifully yours,
W. Hamwlton Merritt.''
In the Report of the Company, dated December 24th, 1834, we see
that work was well advanced, four locks being finished, and a great deal of
the other obstructions overcome.

18 3 5.
On the 15th of January, the new House of Parliament opened ; and on
the 19 th, the Speaker, Mr. Bidwell, was elected. The Governor's speech
on the occasion was a tame one, when the protestations of the party in power
is considered. Mr. Merritt went to Toronto, by way of the Grand River and Hamilton.
On arriving in that city at neon, on the 13th, he attended a caucus of
tbe friends of improvement, and in writing, says : " Parliamentary proceed-
¦" ings have commenced, — and although we have lost the appointment of
" Speaker, yet I think we will have a good House;" but on 8th Feb. he says :
"I am engaged in dra-wing up a report for a Provincial Bank, and the
^' scheme is making quite a stir amongst our bankers. I would have gone
"home, but the roads are intolerable. We still have nothing to do for
*' eight or ten days yet. The House is doing no good, and I doubt whether
" they are likely to." Being desirous of further facilities for the transmission
of mail matters in his own riding, as well as other sections on the canal
and frontier, he corresponded with the Imperial Deputy Post-master General
at Quebec, and received the following : — " Believing that Post Offices are
" much wanted in the section of country pointed out by you, shall take up
" the subjects of your recommendations, and endeavour to carry them into
" effect"

152
During this comparative cessation of public measures in the House,
work was going on in an adjoining committee room, considering grievances
that were now necessary to be removed before any real progress could be
made ; though the wrongs of the country were hidden from the notice of the
public by the mass of grievances discussed, some of ^them being the most
Conservative institutions in the country— as the organization ofthe Episco
pal body, and Government patronage.
The waves of agitation which commenced in Lower Canada, and whose
accaaional ripples were barely noticed in the Western Province, had now
set in with increasing force ; and in spite of the endeavours of the more
moderate, here, its advance could not be stopped, until, like the others,
it had spent its vigour oa the strands of loyalty, and relapsed to its former
bed. Under these circumstances, the present Parliament may well be
said to have been a boisterous one. Mr. Mackenzie, ^who was retumed
for one of the ridings of York, took Ms seat in the new House, and
soon after its opening, his influence was felt — andTday after day, his rest
less spirit became more turbulent. Basing his arguments on the celebrated
letter of Joseph Hume, on Independence, he, for the period of three and
one half hours, occupied the time and attention of the House ; but did not
succeed in having any action taken thereon, so that the mention of it is
hardly found in the Parliamentary journals ofthe day. Following soon
after, by the appointment of his Grievance Committee, wherein was raked
up a mass of evidence, in many cases condemnatory of every institution in
the Province, shewing a grave state of affairs. Yet from the composition
of the committee, and in many known cases, the distorted state of the evi
dence, the report presented by those gentlemen, although a valuable histori
cal document, must not be taken as all truth, nor yet the perfection of fan-
dealing. The published report of tMs committee is a master-piece of Par
liamentary book work, going into the most minute details on every subject,
and fully bearing out Mackenzie's reputation as a keen and careful critic.
The few specimens which follow, -will give an idea of this extraordinary pro
duction. That the document had its birth in a private personal feeling of
Mr. Mackenzie's, there can hardly remain a doubt ; and from a careful re
view of the state of the country, at the commencement of this agitation, we
have no hesitation in belie-ving that the Province of Upper Canada was in
a very prosperous state ; and if comparisons are worth anything, the rapid
rate at which improvements and settlements were going on, up to this time,
has hardly had, all things considered, a parallel since. Great public works
had been completed, and others were advancing; the country was rapidly set
tling, and numerous schemes were in consideration for other useful projects,
A list of the private bills which were to be brought before this sitting,
is in our possession, and those who fancy that men of 1835 were slow, -will

153
tMnk to the contrary, on reading the following Parliamentary bill of fare,
viz : — A bridge over the Grand River. A harbour at Grimsby. A lock at
Cornwall. Continuation of Yonge Street to Holland Landing. A harbour
at Duffin's Creek. A canal between Lakes Huron and Simcoe. Lands
towards the St. Lawrence Canals. A feeder to the Rideau Canal. Im
provement on the River Lin. A Bank in Hamilton. A wharf in Haldi
mand. Improving the River Scugog. A boat canal from the Grand River
to the Thames. A grant for the Desjardin's Canal. A canal across the
Toronto peninsula. A railway or canal from Toronto to Lake Simcoe.
Improving the navigation of the Ottawa. A railway from Port Stanley to
St. Thomas, London, and Goderieh. Water works in Toronto. A bridge
over the Welland River. A railway from Hamilton to Port Dover. A
harbour at Goderieh. A street railway in Hamilton. Navigation of the
River Trent. A canal across Wolfe Island at Kingston. A Wesleyan
Academy at Cobourg. So that we here behold evidences of prosperity and
advancement not often surpassed in older communities.
On the 5th of February they met, Mr. William Lyon Mackenzie in the
chair. He commenced by interrogating the Governor's Secretary, Lieutenant
Col. Rowen, and he was required to give answers to more than flfty
interrogations on public affairs, which his duty, as confldential Secretary to
the Governor, forced him frequently to reply, " It is not in my power to
answer that question."
After him, the member for Middlesex, whose incarceration in London
prison for three or four months next year, need not necessarily vitiate Ms
testimony of what occured in his own riding.
" Are not the grants to a company of speculators residing in Europe, an
" improper transfer of the properties of the Government 'i "
Answer. — " I have always thought the Canada Company one of the
"greatest curses saddled upon the Province."
" Ought not the revenues arising from these lands, to have been applied
" to the liquidation of war loss claims t " " Yes."
" Have not the Assembly, by its liberal grants in aid of inland na-vigation,
roads, kC; given to the public lands their greatly incref^sed value 1 " "Yes."
Mr. Dunlop intenogated.
" What was the original value of shares in the Canada Company '! "
Answer. — "£100; £17. 10s. paid in: value of stock is more than double,"
The Canada Company was chartered for raising the funds to pay war
losses. Also considers the St. Lawrence Canals unnecessary.
169. Would it not be desirable that the Clergy and Crown Reserves, and
all reservations of land, otherwise than for education, were disposed of for
public purposes, under the control of the Legislature? — I do not think so, for
I think the Legislature have shown themselves utterly incapable of managing
their own matters, as witness the Welland and St. Lawrence Canals. I con
sider the St. Lawrence Canal not necessary in the present state of the country.
Colonel A. G. W. G. VAN EGMOND, Ross, Hullet Tp. Huron Tract,
called in and examined.

IS-^
201. What price did the Company pay for the Huron tract? — About
two shillings and tenpence half-penny per acre, sixteen years credit, without
interest, and £48,000 sterling, allowed off to improve their own land, which I
believe would be equal to about one shilling sterling per acre.
202. What are they selling the lands for ?— Prom 12s. 6d. to 13s. 9d.
per acre.
203. What is the extent of the tract ? — They got one million two hundred
thousand acres, from which one hundred thousand were deducted for a swamp.
204 . How long have you been settled in the Huron Tract ? — Six years
this Christmas. I am the oldest settler in that tract.
205. Have the company taken proper means to encourage and promote
the settlement ofthe tract? — For the first year, io Goderieh alone; since then
they have taken no pains to assist the settlers. Last year, there was a
steamboat employed to bring settlers from Detroit to Goderieh. Instead of
attending to that they went several times on pleasure trips up Lake Huron,
once for three weeks or so at a time. By that trip the settlement lost 60
Scotch families. From the best information I can obtain, we lost from 250
to 300 families, who chiefly settled in Blicbigan and, the other states, because
the Company neglected them.
206. Are the agents to the Company kind to the settlers ? No : they are,
with the exception of Mr. Wilson, very arbitrary; they are very tyrannical.
I speak of the agents residing on the tract.
207. 'What magistrates and Court of Request Commissioners have you ? —
Charles Prior, Jno. "Brewster, and Captain Dunlop. They do just what they
please. There are nineteen Townships in the Huron Tract, and only these
three Magistrates.
208. Have the Conip:iny any road in the tract ? — Yes, one from Wilmot to
Goderieh, and one from Vandersburg to London village. These roads extend
upwards of ninety miles, and will cost about £17,000, which is allowed tbem
out of the purchase money, Tha Compuny hafe also Liid out about £5000
for Grist and Saw Mills.
209. Have any settlers been ejected from their farms ? — Yes, they are
scared out ofthe tract and ejected without any form of law or justice. Many
per^ons have been driven out of the Territory; there is no other law there,
except -what the Company's servants make. We must be very polite to the
Agents. 210. Are the Company empowered to impose on settlers such terms as
they please? — Yes, they are.
211. Is there any difficulty in getting titles of letters of occupation? —
They have sometimes to wait a little, but tliey get them. Public lands sell in
the United States at 6s. and 3d. per acre, and are likely to be brought down to
3s. 9d. 212. Do the Company take large sums out of the country? — Their profits
in 1833, were £28,0o0, sterling, after paying all expenses.' The Stockholers
chiefly reside in England.
213. Do the European working settlers express themselves satisfied? —
Dissatisfied in the highest degree, from whatever quarter they come.
214, Are there any schools? — One in Goderieh. The Company do not
now support any other school that I know of.
215, Is money plenty ? — Perhaps as much so as in any other place. Mr.
Taylor keeps a piivate B , i., t.ud issues notes from one dollar to a pound —
tbey circulate amonsr .,.¦,

155
216. In case Huron should be formed into a county ,*where would be the
best polling places] — One at Goderieh, and one at the place where the big
Thames River crosses the Huron Road, about thirty -three miles from Goderieh.
217. Where do the magistrates lay out the monies they receive for wild
land taxes? — I do not know.
218. What is the established religion in your Tract? — There are no
ministers of religion of anv kind in the Tract, nor is there any militia.
219. What is the population of the Tract or country ? — Report says 2,000.
220. How do the Company pay for the*work they get done 1 — For the
first five years they paid two-thirds of the labor in land, at 7s. 6d. (which cost
them not much more than one shilling an acre) and one third in money.
Dr. STRACHAN called in:
543. Does not a vast annual additional expense fall upon the Province,
owing to the continual rejection of bills of a general character, sent up by the
House of Assembly, rejected in the Legislative Council, and again introduced,
debated and sent up by the House of Assembly ? —I beg leave to state that the
Legislative Council reject no bill without good reasons, and that body h.is
always appeared to me to have made the good of the Province much more its
study than the House of Assembly, and need fear no comparison in true
patriotism, wisdom and ability.
645. Would not the British Constitutional system, by which the head of
the government is obliged to ohcose his councillors and principal officers from
among men possessing the confidence of the popular branch of the Legislature,
be more suitable to the wants and wishes of the country, if adopted in Upper
Canada, than the present irresponsible mode of government. I do not believe
the government is an irresponsible one ; the rest of the question is too vague to
admit of a definite answer.
546. In what way is the government of this colony responsible to public
opinion, as expressed by the representatives of the people in Parliament? —
I could not answer that question otherwise than by saying, that the govern
ment is quite as responsible as any other government.
547. [The witness is shewn the Post Office Return, and asked] What
mode would you reccomend for the better government of the Post Office, and
for allowing the oontroul thereof to the Colony ? — I have not given the subject
consideration .
550. Do you think Lieutenant Governors, of themselves, possess sufficient
knowledge of the inhabitants of the several districts to enable them to select
judicious persons as justices of the peace ? — Certainly I do, for they have the
best sources of information, and are quite independent.
Beyond the samples given, we have grievances of officials of all gradee,
ministers of all sects, complaints to the Governor, and with his sharp replies.
The evidence contains accusations of a Catholic Priest against his Bishop,
supported by conespondence; and as the testimony principally terminates two
or three years back, most of the grievances appear to have been imported from
home. It contains a sad interest however, as a little over two years after,
the chairman and members were incarcerated, banished, and some of the
witnesses even suffering the extreme penalty of the law in hanging. And
we may well imagine, showing its progress it was untasteful, and that the

156
items, however animating to the actors, yet in a dozen letters during this
session, from our subject, have a clause of " nothing doing."
Mr. M. retumed from Toronto on the 16th April, and made preparation
for the early opening of the canal. The old steamer Caroliiie, which had
previously plied on the canal between Port Robinson and Buffalo, being
found too much worn for the service, was repaired in St. Catharines, and
rendered more powerful. Two other boats were placed on the route from
Buffalo to Chippawa. An effort was also made to place a fast steamer on
the lower lake between Port Dalhousie and Toronto, but failed through the
opposition from Niagara. The Grand River Company offered the use of
their route to passenger steamers, free from toll, so that every inducement
was held out to make the transit as rapid and commodious as possible.
A large and respectable class of emigrants came to this country during
the summer; amongst those who chose St. Catharines for their home, was
Mr. Taylor the father of our present eminent brewer. This gentleman, in
connexion with Messrs, Truscott k Green, of Toronto, first started the
Farmers' Bank, which for a time was a great benefit to the counti-y in sup
plying the wanted circulation. He afterwards went into the brewery
business, in partnership with Mr. Bate, who had previously purchased the
business carried on here, by Messrs. Garrison k Little. They removed the
works to the site they now occupy, near the old distillery grounds owned
by our subject twenty years previous, and at present extensively carried on
by Messrs. Taylor k Bate, both sons of the former gentlemen.
Among the new comers whose appearance requires notice, as being iden
tified with the improvement of the place, was a -widow lady named Myers,
from London, related to Charles Rolls. Tha family taught drawing lessons,
and tha works of her son Hopner still decorate some of our oldest drawing-
rooms. St. Catharines was much noted at this period for being a haven of refuge
for the numerous runaway slaves who escaped from their southern task
masters. In July of this year a daring attempt was made to kidnap a num
ber of them over the line ; and those engaged in this nefarious business
succeeded in bringing off a man named Stanford, with his wife and child.
On the fact becoming known, a large number of the coloured people around
turned out and pursued the would-be captors ; overtaking them near Buf
falo, and bringing them back, as well as two ruffians of t];ieir own colour,
who assisted in the kidnapping — one of these was sent to the Penitentiary
for five years, the others got clear.
Since the departure of the last incumbent, the church had been presided
over by the Rev. Mr, Clark. He came in company with Rev. Dr. Mack;
these gentlemen, with others, were sent out by the Society for the Promo
tion of Christian knowledge.

157
The old Episcopal Church of St. Catharines having been sold to the
Methodists, on Monday the 27th of July, was laid, with Masonic honours, the
corner-stone of the new Episcopal Church, on what was then known as
Academy Street, in St. Catharines. The affair was the occasion of a grand
demonstration in the village, and the building erected, though lonw in com
pletion, was for many years considered one of the finest in the district, and
an important ornament to the place. The new church was named in com
pliment to George Adams, Esq., if not the oldest, from the number of his
descendants who attended there, was entitled to be considered the patriarch
of the society.
On the canal Mr. Merritt caused improvements to be made. A number
of imperfect locks were thoroughly repaired, and the tow-path and other ac-
eessories were put in good order ; so that all the requirements of the time
were fairly met by the company — and the traffic passed on satisfactory.
Navigation being closed, the usual Anniversary celebrating the comple
tion of the canal was held at the St. Catharines House on the 30th of No
vember, with a gi-eat amount of enthusiasm and good will. But occur
rences transpired in the mean time that called another meeting, not quite
so peaceful in its demonstration. The occasion of this had been that
during this yerr Mr. Mackenzie was appointed one of the Canal Board,
on behalf of the Government. He spent the entire Autumn in lookino-
over the books of the company, and we regret to state, that whilst enjoyino-
the friendship and hospitality of our subject, he so far foi-got his position,
and transcended the limits of propriety, as to obtain his (Mr Merritt's) private
memoranda, and afterwards publish the same in his general charges ao-ainst
the officials of the Welland Canal. At this meeting Mr. Merritt observed
that Mackenzie had directed his attacks against others, indeed ; but he had
no doubt the whole was intended for him. Although the errors he men
tioned are too small and unimportant to be taken notice of, yet we midit
say, that there are few undertakings at that, or the present time, of any
importance, where every interest had to be wielded to the best possible
|ttirpose, which will bear the same scrutiny as what we now term " the
secret service ofthe Welland Canal, and Mr. Merritt's connection therewith."
The unusual emigration to the Prairie States, and the shortness of the
crops, changed the course of shipments ; so that we see a consignment of
grain arrived this fall, in Quebec, from Hull, and we hear of a cargo of 500
barrels of flour sold at Chicago, for $9 per barrel.
The last day of the year has an article on the entire opposition between
the Parent Government and Lower Canada. The Government had sent
out a Commission with the new Governor, to settle the difficulties. Their
Parliament had met a fortnight before, and were gi-ven the unconditional
management of their funds. But their first act was to donate from them a
salary to an agent to proceed again to England, although their former agent

158
had bfeen superseded by the Commission. The Constitutionalists, composed
of the English inhabitants of Montreal, raised a rifle corps numbering 800
men, and though not acknowledged by the Government, offered thefirst
serious resistance to the national movement.

1836.
The House opened on January 14th. The Governor in his speech noticed
the falling of our securities in England, and other checks to progress through
the stand taken by the Lower Canadians. The subject of the war losses
was brought into it, by an offer from the Imperial Government of £36,000
if the Canadians would pay £20,000.
On the 21st of January, Mr. Merritt rose in the House to answer the
charges brought against the canal management by Mr. Mackenzie, and his
speech on that occasion is a sufficient evidence that the agitating member
had for once met his match. We need only state that the position in which
he places Mr. Mackenzie is neither flattering to that gentleman, nor credit
able to his backers in the House. Those from the frontiei-, we have already
shewn, ware, from the beginning, opposed to the canal.
On the 21st of January the new Governor, Sir Francis Bond Head, late
Poor Law Commissioner from England, accompanied by his son and Mr.
.loseph, a clerk in tha Colonial Office, drove up to the St. Catharines
House, and took up lodgings for the mght. An opportunity so favourable
for the display of the people's loyalty was not neglected. So an address was
presented next morning before leaving for Toronto. They wisely eschewed
all political intent, and congratulated His Excellency on his arrival in the
most prosperous part of the Province, hoping that this prosperity would
still be continued uncler his administration. ii. satisfactory answer was
returned, adding as a favorable augury that this first address was altogether
unconnected with politics. He arrived in Toronto on the 26th, and enter
ed at once into the admiaistration of the Government ; Sii-]John Colborne
taking his leave.
There are but few Colonial Governors whose biography will pay the
trouble of searching out, and those few from their lengthy stay, identified
with American history. Sir John Colbome is one of them, whose admin
istration led to a revolution in Canada ; and then with extended authority
the military power of Great Britain crushed it out. Those who were wit
nesses of the improvements, both social and educational, are willing, how
ever, to give him cj?edit for their good intentions towards the people over
whose interests he was appointed to superintend.
On the 27th, commenced the labours of the Commission appointed to
investigate the charges of Mr. Mackenzie against the officers of the Welland

159
Canal Company. Their report forms one of the largest volumes of docu
ments on a subject of provincial interest. Its cost to the country in that
liffht was but the small sum of £20,000. It has been of essential use in
this biography in obtaining correct and reliable data of our public improve
ments. "Toronto, 17th April, 1836.
" My dear Catherine :
" I would not have wrote you this day, if I returned immediately at the
close of the session, which -will be closed on Wednesday next, but as I expect
to remain here a few days longer, until Saturday, drop you a few lines to
account for it, — and when on the subject, wish you to write to your Pa or
Ma, mentioning that the Committee has reported on the Welland Canal
affair. The farce has ended. And after being tried by our enemies, we
have been acquitted with credit. Even my political opponents expressed
their astonishment. The editor of the ' C orres2}ondent and Advocate' wrote
me a letter on the subject, and everything has ended as satisfactory as I
could desire. But it is no gratification to me personally. My hope is that
great good will arise from it to the undertaking itself We have passed a
bill through our House, which, if carried into effect, will satisfy me well for
the loss of this entire winter. I am, your faithful husband,
William H.imilton Merritt.''
The author of the "Life of Mackenzie" mentions a number of grave
charges in connection -with the management of the Welland Canal, and
bases their correctness on a private letter written by Francis Hincks to
Mr. Mackenzie, at the time. As a sample of this authority, we extract
the foUo-wing from this letter, viz : * * * * " I now repeat, and am
willing to stake my character on the truth of it, — that for several years
they are full of false and fictitious entries — so much so, that if I was on
Oath, / could, hardly say whither I believe tliere are more true than false
ones," d-c, d-c.
Mr. Leslie, in his introduction to his father-in-law's life, says : " In the
" private documents in my possession, I found much that had never seen
" the light." We can hardly say for this extract that " the use I have made
" of these documents, will, I presume, not be regarded as unwarranted."
Nor, will the plea that he had never been in Canada till several years after
the rebellion, excuse it. , Mr. Hincks' evidence before a Parliamentary
Commitee, consisting of ten or more pages, was to be had — which, for the
sake ofthe gentlemen with whom our subject had much intimate connection,
it is our unpleasant duty to correct, by a short extract from the said evidence :
" Can you, from the manner in which the Books of the Company have
" been kept, impute fraud to any one connected therewith 1 "
Answer. — "Ihave already stated that I really do not think tliat any
" fraudulent intent can attach itself to any individual connected with the
It Books ofthe Company."

160
"My Dear Sir: "Toronto, 6th March, 1836.
" I have delayed writing you for some time, in hopes of having closed my
present concerns here — but as this is not likely to take place for some tin^e,
will delay no longer. You are aware the House of Assembly appointed Wm.
Lyon Mackenzie, a violent and unprincipled party man, one of our Directors
last year. This man, for certain party purposes, purchased a paper called
' Tlie Welland Canal,' making sundry charges against the management of
the Company, but principally aimed at myself. At the opening of our
present Legislature, I called for an investigation, giving in my remarks a
brief statement of his proceedings. A committee has been appointed, con
sisting of seven members, six of whom are of Ms party, and five his personal
friends. He also has a decided majority in the House, which, of course was
the cause of obtaining a committee of his party. Now, as you are well
aware of the ^justice ' which partisans or party men generally award to
their opponents, you may readily infer what chance we have of a fair and
impartial investigation : add to this every person who has or may entertain
any personal prejudice or ill-will against any officers of the Company, or
against myself, respecting any transaction relating to the Company or my
private business, for the last thirteen years it is produced, and we have had
transactions with some thousands during that period, all of which gives our
adversary such a manifest advantage, that our proceedings must have been
rather more than human to escape censure, and to subserve every possible
circumstance he has jDreferred — thirty-two separate and distinct charges.
Nevertheless, I am sanguine we will refute every one of them, but it requires
great diligence, research, and much trouble, and after all, no gi-atification,
and no useful purpose gained when ended, even should our management meet
with every approbation. But so it is, we are brought into it, and must re
sist, I nipiition this circumstance to show that you are not alone in diffi
culties over which you could have no control, and which no human prudence
could avert. However, I assure you I feel more anxiety and apprehension
on your affairs than my own, inasmuch as you have arrived at that time of
life when rest and quietness should be your reward. Whereas, I am still in
the meridian of life, and feel every inclination to call all my faculties into
action to resist the most heartless persecution I have yet met with."
" I remain, your affectionate son, W. Hamilton Merritt."
The old church in St. Catharines, after forty years usefulness, was com
pletely destroyed by fire, as we see by a letter from Mr. Mittleberger to
our .subject, at this time. It runs thus :
''Dear Sir : " St. Catharines, 5th March.
"In consequence of a protracted meeting being held in our old church last
last night by the Canadian' Wesleyan Society, we are deprived of it alto
gether. It is not known exactly how the fire occured, but the presumption
is that it was occasioned either by the stove pipe, or more probably, by an
accidental candel spark, about the pew of G. Adams.
"The main object of this, is to ask whether you and Mr. Clark, as Trustees
of the Grantham Academy, have any objections to our using the upper part
of the building for the performance of divine service, until the new Church
is completed ¦? Yours faithfully, H. Mittleberger."
"To William Hamilton Menitt, Esq.,
M. P. P., Toronto, Ont."

¦161
Very little useful legislation was effected this session, (except a motion,
which was moved by Mr. Park, in the House, that the sum of £50,000 be
appropriated for roads and bridges, which was carried almost unanimously,)
although it was remarkable for a great amount of free, not to say treasonable
speech, which resulted in the stoppage of the usual supplies to support
the Government. A motion was also made to pay William Lyon Mackenzie
ONE thousand dollars for his services as Government director of the
Welland • Canal ; and although pressed with all the -vigour which himself
and his friends possessed in the House, still, failed to pass. Mr. Merritt
was at home during part of the session, preparing his communications to
meet the accusations of Mr. Mackenzie.
The House adjourned on the 20th of April.
On the 28th of May, the Governor dissolved the House and ordered a
new election, the writs to be returned on the 16th of July. Among tlie
improvements we notice a fine steamer, the Haldimand, was launched at
Dunnville, for the express purpose of plying on the Grand River.
The Niagara District Mutual Insurance Co. was also started in St.- Ca
harines on the 18th of May, in this year. And the subject of openiiig a
direct communication with the Junction, afterwards incorporated under the
name of Merrittville, with other improvements of a similar nature, was
discussed. The Government had been very liberal in its appropriation by
macadamizing the stage road ; but the financial depression and political
disturbance that followed, put a stop to all local improvements.
The subject of a through line of railway from the Niagara to the Detroit
River, had for some time occupied the attention of the people on our West
ern frontier, and on the 1st of June in this year, a large and influential
meeting was held at Sandwich, presided over by the late Col. John Prince
The ordinary organization was completed, and stock books were opened
throughout the country, those for the Niagara district being placed in the
hands of Mr. Merritt.
The Haldimand election resulted in Mr. Merritt being again successful,
although he was strongly opposed by Mr. Davis, a local gentleman, and
professing to be of the same political party as our subject.
The election occurred on the 1st of July, 1836, and the author, who was
present, has for remembrance a gathering which, for riot and drunkenness,
though his own vilhige could get up no tame display, exceeded everything
he had ever seen before, and challenges the world to beat the Grand River
roarers in their peculiar line.
Things looked pretty dark for the first day or two. The roads were bad,
and the farmers disinclined to come out. But when Squire Evans, after a
great deal of coquetting, cast his vote for Davis, the Dutch came out in
troops, and the day was ours. A celebration had been indulged in on the
return of the victor at St. Catharines, Mr. George Rykert. On Monday, it

162
was ascei-tained that Mr. William Hamilton Merritt had been elected
for the County of Haldimand, by a handsome majority. Accordingly,
in the evening the usual demonstration of joy ¦was enacted, kept up by a pubhc
dinner, on Tuesday, for both of the members.
Whilst political strife was exciting the people of Western Canada,
we have, at this stage of our biography, to record the death of an American
citizen, who in reality was more to this country than meinj patriots who
aspired to that dignifled title. On the 10th of July in this year,
J. B. Yates, Esq., died at his residence in Chittenango, N. Y., and as the
deceased and our subject, in connection with the Welland Canal and other
important works, were on more than intimate terms, we propose to enter
briefly into an account of this gentleman. Descended from a highly respec
table family who inhabited the Valley of the Mohawk, his father being an
officer with the rank of Colonel in the continental army, during the Revolu
tion, connected by the ties of kindred to these good old loyalists the Butlers
of the Rangers, and others. Mr. Yates was brought up with all the ac
quirements of a well-to-do citizen. At the early age of eighteen he graduated
at Union College, and afterwards applied himself to the study of the law,
in which he was subsequently distinguished. In 1812 he held the position
of a Captain of Militia, under General Wade Hampton, and during a part
of the war he was actively engaged on the Niagai'a frontier, and was after
wards appointed aid-de-camp to the Governor of New York State, with the
rank of " Colonel." In the fourteenth Congress he was elected for Scoharie
and Schenectady, and was afterwards appointed Government manager of the
New York State lotteries, also the Judge of Madison County Court, and
afterwards Chief Justice, together with being member of the Legislature
of Ms native State, which position he held at the time of his death. In Ms
regular, visits to his relatives the Butlers, near St. Catharines, and through
perhaps Dr. Prendergast, he became acquainted with our subject, and,
as already mentioned, when the Welland Canal scheme was first proposed
by Mr. Merritt, Mr. Yates was the principal capitalist, who advanced a
large portion of the necessary funds. His expansive views at once grasped
the magnitude of the work, and principally by his advice its enlargement was
decided upon. In its numerous phases he was always its friend, and his con
fidence in our subject was manifiested on every occasion where a great work
-was projected and funds required. It is unnecessary to be individous, yet
we think, that were it not for the assistance of Mr. Yates, tlie success of the
canal, at this time, would hardly be accomplished; and his death was deeply
regretted by all the well-wishers of the enterprise. One of the principal
streets of St. Catharines now bears his honoured name, and the following
lines from the Chittenango Herald truly describes the character of this great
and good man : —

163
" In contemplating the character of Mr. Yates, we find high moral and
intellectual worth most harmoniously blended. Possessing naturally a mind
of -fine texture and high order, it had been adorned and cultivated by exten
sive literary and professional attainments. These he brought to bear with
power on every department of life. As a public man, he shone in the lustre
of his native character in every station of honour, trust, and influence, which
were confened upon him. Prompt, decisive, energetic, and persevering.
even at the sacriflce of health and personal comfort, in the performance of
his public functions. His views and plans were of an enlarged and com
prehensive nature, beyond the scope of ordinary intellect. But, while in
public life he shone with lustre, in private he gleamed with brilliancy. By
Ms superior intellectual and moral attainments, by his urbanity of manners,
by the overflowing benevolence of his soul, by his amiability of disposition,
he was pre-eminently fitted to gain the affection and secure the confidence
and respect of all who knew him. TTniversally beloved and esteemed, not
through the effect which wealth or honour produces, but as the necessary
and invariable result of the private virtues of his character. Every one
was his friend, and his praises dropped from the lips of all."
August 4th.--The project for erecting a chain Suspension Bridge over
the Niagara River, at Queenston, had been set on foot. "The bridge,'' adds
the Journal, " will have the largest span of any in the world of the same kind."
September 15th. — The Govemor, after an extensive tour ofthe Province,
north and east, proceeded to St. Catharines from York,via Niagara," whence,"
says the St. Catharines Journal, " after staying all night, departed on horse
back, with his son and secretary, Mr. Menitt and others, up the line to
Port Colbome,^thence to Marshville and Dunnville. The Govemor and suite
then proceeded to Sandwich, and returned by London, Brantford, and
Hamilton. October 1 3th. — Lower Canada troubles, at the termination of the Legis
lative Assembly, shews that further parley would be worse than useless. The
King's,ministers must either knuckle to Lower Canada, or they must exercise
the strong arm of the law.
The Montreal Gazette says, " A Legislative union is now inevitable."
The author visited Quebec at the opening of the session, where he had
the satisfaction of a personal interview with the distinguished L. S.
Papineau, speaker, and most infiuential leader in the House.
Mr. Menitt addressed the electors of Haldimand, in October, after his
third contest — noticing the great prosperity of the neighbouring republic,
and especially New York, since the completion of the Erie Canal : this was
effected by the Government borrowing the funds necessary to finish the canal ;
and that credit had been procured, carrying out the expansion of business
necessary to its full use.
After complimenting the liberality ofthe Legislature in voting £300,000
for the improvements in the St. La-wrence, he says : " Your county per
haps, has been more benefitted than any other portion of the Province."

104
The following is extraeted from Mr. Merritt's address "to the freehold
ers of the County of Haldimand," on the absorbing topic of politics :
" The Government of the State of New York being administered by
a Democracy, this is, by many, considered the bestadai'tedtoanew country,
and their prosperity is ascribed to that cause ; but this argument is fiilla-
cious. If the Government was the true cause, it would not only be our
duty, but our individual interest, as well as the interest of our posterity, to
use every peaceable and legitimate means to bring about that form of Gov
ernment, which produces such beneficial effects. But by extending our views
to Great Britain, the delusion vanishes, since we perceive that similar effects
are produced in the mother country. In England and Scotland, you will
find the cheapest and best articles. They excel the different branches of
business in America, in the same rajio that they excel us. The form of
Government, therefore, not being the cause, we must look for some other
principle of action ; which is none other than an exteiuled system of jmblic
credit. In England, a merchant, mechanic, or operator, can cany on as ex
tensive a business on £4 capital, as in this province on £100 — the command
of capital in business being nearly equal to the possession of it.
" In America, £6 will command £100, and this is the real and true cause
why different branches of business can be conducted with greater certainty
and profit, on the other side, than with us. The practical operation of each
separate branch of business could be easily pointed out, through every stage;
but two or three instances are sufficient to elucidate the subject.
" The extensive system qf credit, so siiccessfiflly adopted in New York, en
ables a wholesale merchant in that cit}' to command ready money, with
which he can purchase goods at the cheapest rate in the manufacturing
towns of Britain. IVie same system has established splendid lines of packets,
to convey them at regular and stated periods, with the greatest facility and
expedition, across the Atlantic. T/ie same system gives him time to realize
the proceeds before payment of duties. Tlie same system provides tbe
Western or country trader with ready money to pay for them, which thus
enables the importer to make quick returns, whereby he transaots an ex
tensive business with a very limited capital.
"All I require for my fellow^ countrymen is a fair trial. Let our Legis
lature arouse from the torpor which has subdued them heretofore. Let
them bring into action the public ci-edit of the province — obtain a sea-port,
and establish a Bank immediately, to represent the entire wealth of Upper
Canada ; and lend us as much money as we require, on the best security.
If we do not in three years, show more enterprise, greater industry, and
more energy, than the citizens of the state of New-York, or any other state
— forever brand us as an inferior race of mortals — but not until after the
trial is made.
" To the present Legislature, we may look with confidence for the adop
tion of bold and energetic measures, so as to retrive this pvovince from tbe
incubus which has for many years retarded its prosperity. All are aware
of its necessity ; and if another session passes over without effecting the de
sideratum required, no one will feel a greater disappointment than
"Your obedient servant,
" October, 1836. " WM. HAMILTON MERRITT."
That, and the next one passed without it ; and then came the Rebellion.
October 29th. — A meeting was held at Thorold, for the purpose of pe-'

165
titioning Pariiament for the removal ofthe County buildings from Niagara
to a more appropriate place.
On the same day, a meeting of the young men of St. Catharines was
called, for the purpose of forming a debating society, in which Pelton, Emery,
Lewis, and the author, appear as a committee to draft a constitution and by
laws. As this preceeded the Athenreum, and was the flrst attempt of the
kind, it must be put down as the inception of literary and other associations
of this place, and father of the Mechanic's Institute.
During the Summer, several surveys were made on the canal by Mr.
Macaulay, the President, who also belonged to the Royal Engineers, and by
Messrs. Baird and Killaly, of the Irish Board of Works.
The name of James R. Benson appears among the Mutual Insurance
officers. The Report of the Canal Board appeared on the 4th of November,
giving a favourable statement of the year's business.
Mr. Menitt set out in the stage, on the 5th of November, to attend the
House. November 8th. — The House opened the flrst session of the thirteenth
Parliament, 7th year, William IV., Sir F. Head, Goveriior. In his speech
he said :
" As regards the duties of my station in the Legislature, it is my inten
tion, as long as they may be confided to me, to occupy myself to the best of
my Kbility, in the intemal improvement of the country ; in the impartial
administration of justice, and in maintaining unsullied the commercial integ
rity of the Province."
The Hou.se organized under Archibald McLean, speaker, and retumed
a favourable reply to the Governor's address.
9th November. — Mr. Menitt gave notice of a Provincial B.mk scheme,
whose profits for ten years were to be loaned for finishing the public works.
He also brought in a measure to regulate the expenditure of district funds.
The preliminaries in an entirely new House, occupied much of the
time, and a pei-sonal exhibition of the Canal being necessary, within the
fortnight, we flnd him back again. From Mrs. Merritt's journal we read : —
"Mr. Merritt got home about 9 o'clock at night. Left again at daylight,
with a party of gentlemen for Port Dalhousie : returned at 10, but never
sat down, aud started for Gravelly Bay."
This inspection occupied him for the rest of this month. On his return,
the contested election of William Lyon Mackenzie, with others, occupied
the attention of the House, and not much was done till the Christmas
holidays. On the 29th, appeared the Report of the Select Committee on the Welland
Canal, which reported the arrangement with the stockholders, ultimately adop
ted — that when the receipts amounted to £50,000 per annum, the Government
should pay six per cent, interest upon the stock: from the date of payment.

166
the revenue from the canal in 1852 was £50,000— when the stockholders re
ceived the whole of the principal and back interest.
November 28th.— The Welland Canal Company held its last celebration
coalescing with the St. Andrew's Club. E. W. Stephenson, Thomas Gibson,
A. K. Boomer, stewards. Col. Clark presiding and retiring in favour of
the Engineer, Hall, president of the St. Andrew's.
December 28th. — The Grantham Academy was advertised to be sold by
the Sheriff, to weather off financial difficulties ; but the catastrophe w&s for
this time averted by the stockholders satisfying the judgment, and stoppirg
any further expense, by handing the use of it and entire man,agement over to
Mr. Thompson, in consideration of his keeping therein a school for classical
and commercial instruction.
Mr. Van Bureau elected President of the United States.
Mr. Merritt left with his second son, who was a student of the Upper
Canada College since Easter ; from whose journal we quote : —
"At Christmas, Pa, with the other members took a holiday. Several
went home with us. It was a royal time — cold to excess. But our large
cloaks, and high spirits (at least, mine) kept off the cold."
His further account describing the holidays, we reluctantly omit. They
were terminated by returning to Toronto by stage.
1837.

Mr. Merritt, in noticing his trip to Toronto, says :
" We had an expeditious, but cold trip. An accident occured on our ar
rival : turning down Bay street the sleigh upset, by which one of my ribs was
injured. " On the 4th attended the House.
"9th. — Not as well as usual, having a cold added to my damaged side.
I hope the ensuing week will bring forward some measure in which I do take
an interest." He also orders that the young members of his family, during the evenings
when not engaged at their own studies, teach the domestics — adding, it would
be of more service than their wages : a very little time will effect it.
After the 16th, side better. No more mention of the up set, except on 23rd.
" I have entirely recovered. Tell your Ma her dream is partly verified.
There is effectual aid granted to the Welland Canal of nearly $1,000,000."
On this grant, his old friend Chief Justice Robinson, writes :
" I have very great satisfaction in congratulating you upon the liberal and
decisive measures which the Legislature, hafie at length adopted. It is of great
consequence that the grant now made by the Legi.slature, should be judiciously
applied : and it is no less due to the stockholders than to yourself, that your
name should continue to be associated with the work, at least, until all difficulties

167
are removed, lie is well acquaintedwith the interests af the work, which,
perhaps, none ofthe New York stockholders, sines the djath of Mr. Yates, were."
He writes, on the 3rd of April :
" I apprehend great difficulty will ba found in raising money to carry into
effect the act passed last session. If you are not a director of the canal, I
should hope the Board will offer you the appointment of superintendent. If
they do not, however, one of the Government directors, Mr. J. Wilson,
should resign.'-
The Report of the Select Committee on the subject of " Trade and Com
merce," with its appendages, would form a respectable pamphlet, carefully
prepared. It compares the former advantages of the St. Lawrence, saying,
" up to 1820, our products and property commanded higher prices than similar
articles and property on the opposite side of the frontier." Showing that ad
vantages would again arise, under a judicious Legislature, when the St. Law
rence canals were finished.
" The antagonism of the Lower Canada Legislature, is shewn by an act this.
Spring, subjecting our trade to an inquisitional examination ; and it was so
absurd in its provisions, that it could never be carried into operation.
"They charge $1 for each boat, and the declaration at Coteau De Lac, which
is similar to that, enterin.g from the sea: — Name of vessel, and master: num
ber, and country : destination, &c: account of lading : number: quantity :
quality : consignment, including the particular marks and bulk unbrokea
since loading.
Then the distribution of the revenue coUecied being according to the
number of *he population, which, being less than Lower Canada, was as 7 to 8,
the product of Upper Canada. To remedy all this, they recommended an
address to petition tha Imperial Government for a sea-port. They also bring the
subject nearer home, by praying for the reform of their restricted tariff, with a
hint that it would be better for both parties to leave the regulations of their
commerce to the local assembly. The continuance of these restrictions
on -our trade, has a tendency to create mischief, by enabling persons to name
articles prohibited by Imperial Act, and subject to higher duties when im
ported from other ports.
" We also pray for the admission of our products in Great Britain free.
" February 15th, 1837. W. H. MERRITT, Chairman."
During this Session, a number of important bills were passed through
the House, and a large share of Legislation -w;as seemingly bestowed upon the
Welland Canal. Acting on th"^ series of resolutions which the Committee
bad brought before the House, a bill -vyas brought in for the purchase of the
canal by the country, which passed through the House without much opposi
tion. By this Act, the private stockholders were not bought out ; but the
several loans of the Province to the company, were converted into stock,
and a further sum of £245,000 subscribed by the Government. Arrange
ments were also made towards paying the company's debts, pro-viding for
the construction of enlarged stone locks, kc., kc. So that at last, we find
that the utility of this work is fully recognized. By this measure the direc
tion of the works was vested in the Government, they having a majority at

168
all meetings of the Board. The Bill for the establishment of a Provincial
Bank, which was brought in by cur subject, and, we think very well managed
and explained by him, failed to pass, although a majority of " one " was
only recorded against it on the journals of the House. He occupied the
important positions of Chairman of the Committee on Trade and Commerce,
and also Chairman of the Committee for the improvement of the St. Law
renoe, during this session, in which he strongly urged upon the Government
the advisability of pushing on those works.
Mr. Merritt, as usual, when he felt his measure secure, delayed not for
the formal closing of the House, but set out at 5 o'clock on Friday evening,
arri-ving home at 3 o'clock, P. M. next day.
After the closing of the House, he attended to his usual business on
the canal, where, from recent legislation, strenuous efforts were put forward
to accomplish the extensive repairs required, before the opemng of navigation,
going through the line by the feeder, 12 th March.
In his memoranda of 21st March, we find a scheme whereby the original
canal stockholders should be participants in the increased income to be de
rived from the new canal, they paying their fair share of the expenses. He
also' urges the necessity of supplying the enlarged work with water direct
from Lake Erie, as he seems to have some doubts as to the capacity of the
feeder to fully meet the requirements of the enlarged locks, kc.
Mr. Merritt also endeavoured to get the Government to purchase and con
trol the Grand River Navigation Company's works, but failed to do so, in
consequence of which his heavy interest in that undertaking became worth
less, and has never since its being finished, realized a cent.
As mentioned before, he had become, along -with Mr. Yates and McDonnell,
personally responsible for the funds which were required to complete the
canal to Lake Erie ; and the conduct of the House in this instance, reflects
the • highest honour upon their patriotism, as it presents a striking contrast
with their political opponents in the last House ; but to get action from the
Government was still to be effected.
At the annual election of the canal Board this year, we find that Mr.
Merritt's name is not in the direction. This was a rather under-handed
attempt to " sack " him from the Board, which was solely the cause of his
declining to serve, as the following memoranda of his own -will show : —
" April 3rd. — The election took place for directors for the private share
holders. Captain Eccles showed me a letter from Creighton, naming
McDonald or Butler for directors. This gentleman had been to New York
for some days, and had returned, keeping everything secret until this
morning I have no reason to complain of the decision of the Stockholders,
but, my conduct heretofore has never warranted this secret, suspicious,
distrustful pioceeding. I had 88 votes on the old proxies, and there were
only 66 against me. However I declined exercising my power, and allowed
the election to terminate as the New York shareholders wish, kc."

169
As already intimated, new directors were elected into the Canal Board,
and the occunence was the cause of considerable personal annoyance to Mr.
Merritt, who was fully convinced that means outside of the ordinary course
were resorted to, in order that this act should be accomplished. That the
proxys of the New York stockholders should be given to Mr. Eccles, seems
strange; and can only be accounted for, either through mis-statements on the
one side, or a lack of knowledge on the other. No doubt, hopes had risen
among the Niagara people, from a large grant of the canal of the last session,
that the termination might be changed to their own town. How far our
ideas on this jioint may be correct, the following correspondence will shew : —
"Albany, April 14th, 1837.
" Dear Sir :—
"I received, three days ago, when much indisposed, your letter of the
4th instant. I am yet unwell, but will no longer delay answering you.
"Some time in the latter end of February, Capt. Eccles, of Upper Canada,
called on me, in relation to the Welland Canal, and the act of your Legis
lature concerning it, which had just passed. He stated that he was on his
way to New York, to consult the stockholders there, and ])rocure their assent
to, or acceptance of the law ; and he informed me that Captain Creighton
was then in or near New York. I stated that I could not then say or do
anything in tte business, but that I would acquiesce in any measures that
Mr. Henry Yates and Charles Yates might agree on. Captain Eccles im
mediately proceeded to New York, and very soon thereafter, I received your
letter of the 21st February, and presuming it might have influence on their
deliberations in New York, I sent a copy of it by the next post to Mr.
Henry Yates. Some time afterwards. Captain Eccles returned, with powers
executed by my friends in New York, to vote for directors at the next elec
tion, which I executed also, as a matter of course. I gave the matter but
little consideration, my wife at the tima being dangerously ill, and I do not
now recollect who was named as our proxy.
" It appears from your letter that you are impressed with the idea that
your character has been assailed by some one to us. I can assure you that
it was not done to me. Captain Eccles informed me that it was in con
templation to change the route of the eastern end of the canal, as I think,
from the foot of the summit to the mouth of the Niagara River, kc.
" I am, dear sir, with sincere respect, your most obedient, servant,
" To William Hamilton Merritt, Esq. A. W. McINTYRE."
Although the ordinaiy course for him to have taken under the circum
stances, would have been to have looked after his own interests, yet, from
his memoranda, we find that he is acting with all the energy at his disposal
to secure the interests of the private shareholders as well. On 3rd April, he
'writes to secretary Joseph, on the subject of relieving himself and friends
of their private responsibilities, and the answer he received thereto was curt
and ijnsatisfactory ; yet, stating that the Governor would see him per
sonally, on the subject. Accordingly, on tha 22nd of April, he v.'ent to
Toronto, but received no satisfaction. On the 28th, the Board met, and
appointed Mr. Macaulay, of Toronto, as President of the Company. Mr.

170
Merritt accompanied the new Board over the line, to Dunnville, where
he left them, and proceeded to Seneea, where the annual meeting of the
G. R. N. Co. --was to be held on the 1st of May. At this meeting he de
clined re-election as a director, on the grounds of living so far from the work.
On the 8th of May, he again visited Toronto, (the Board having again
in a measure established their head-quarters in that city,) but failed to
obtain any answer from them on the subject of a money advance.
Although the Legislature had, at their last session, provided ample means
for large improvements, and paying off the obligations of the company, yet
we find that with the novel management of the canal, procrastination was
undoubtedly the order of the day ; and no action was taken in the matter
until the monetary crisis of this year set in ; when, with the premomtory
symptoms of rebellion, and state of general confusion prevailing, it was at
that time almost impossible to obtain the necessary funds : hence, Mr.
Merritt remarks : —
" The evil of procrastination on a work of tMs magnitude, importance,
and utility, cannot be foreseen. Before leaving Toronto, (at the close of
the session) I had written the Governor, requesting him to issue the deben
tures to the old directors, before the election of the new ones, that their
obligations might be provided for, and they be relieved from their responsi
bilities. I had made arrangements with the Bank, in a way that £25,000
cash was secured on those debentures. I also urged Mr. Joseph, on the day
of election. On the 10th of April the panic had occurred, owing to
failures in England, when no money could be obtained. The same procras
tination has prevented the piers at Port Colborne and Grand River,, from
being repaired, and also the lock at Dunnville. Everything remains in
a state of suspense."
And after mentioning the names of eleven professed engineers, and as
many commissioners, who had examined and reported on the canal, since the
beginning, as well as the annual reports of the Company, since 1824, he asks :
" Whence the necessity of creating further delay, by employing more
engineers and commissioners 1 "
Small as well as large interests were affected by procrastination.
Cayuga, 10th May, 1837.
'' Dear Sir : —
"I am requested by John Norton and J. J. Lymburner, to inform you
that the contractor for building a bridge over Norton's Creek, has commenced
the work, and according to his agreement with the commissioners, will re
quire an advance of money very soon. Will you have the goodness there
fore, to order the money granted for building said bridge, to be forwarded
to the care of Mr. St. John, Dunnville, that the work may not be delayed
for want of funds.
The inhabitants of this part ofthe country must feel under great obliga
tions to you, for enabling them to get bridges erected over Norton's and
Tunis' Creeks. I am respectfully, dear sir,
" Your very obedient servant, . ROBERT HAYTI BRUCE."
" To W. H. Merritt, Esq., M. P. P., St. Catharines."

17,1
As a matter of vital necessity that their attention should be bestowed
on the subject, on the 25th of May he visited the city of New York, and
induced the executors of the late J. B. Yates to come with him to St. Catha-
arines, where a better understanding was obtained regarding their trust by
these gentlemen, who after their personal inspection of the affairs of the
estate in Canada, handed over its management entirely into the hands of
Mr. Merritt and Mr. McDonnell, with instructions to close up the affair
immediately. However, on the 10th of June, an extra session of the House was
held, in consequerice of the monetary crisis which had reached and was
impoverishing this country. The Bank of Upper Canada experienced
a heavy pressure, in the shape of " a run," and the stagnation of business,
and general depreciation of property, kc, was severely felt by all classes,
and was a genuine premium to the stock of the conspirators, who were
now rapidly bringing their scheme of Annexation to a crisis.
The Government obtained a measure for raising the value of the Eng
lish shilling to 25 cts.; and they thus succeeded in preserving some of the
currency in the country, without resorting to the suspension of specie pay
ments. Mr. Merritt after tha session again proceeded to the U . S.^seaboard.
While in New York Mr. Merritt interested himself in having a favor
able sample of our flour displayed in that market. He writes :
" New York, 4th October, 1837.
" Mr. j. Bowery,
"Sir : — You will request Mr. Stevenson to consign to Richard Irvin, No.
98 Front Street, New York, one hundred barrels of best superfine flour. It
is intended to give the flour a character, and to give the two markets a fair
test. From enquiry, I find the duty will be, per barrel, 87J cts. ; Freight,
75 cts. ; from Oswego to New York 62c.; commission, 2Jc.=21 ; cartage,
cooperage, storage and inspection, ^ ct. &c., kc, 12J=:fl.96. Deduct
difference in exchange 3 per ct. on price of bbl. $8.50=25c.; total, $1.71.
Value with you $6.79. If sold on wharf here, these 12i cts. will be gained.
The true difference in this and the Montreal market at present, admitting
tbe charges equal, is, for duty, less 3 per cent, exchange, 87| cts.; making
precisely five shillings York. Whenever the market here shows that dif
ference, it is our interest to send to this port.
" Yours truly,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
The following letters shew what was the result of the trust, and per
haps regarding tho personal security of $200,000 alluded to :
" To the Cashier of the Bank of .Upper Canada.
'•"Sir: — You will please deliver to William Hamilton Merritt, Esq.,
the debentures lodged in your hands, on account of the Hydraulic Company.
"Dated at St. Catharines, September 13th, 1837.
"W. K. FULLER,
" Executor and Trustee of the Estate of
"Jediah Crighton, "J. B. Yates, dec eas
"A. McDONNEL."

172
He having met with a satisfactory answer to his mission, -returned to
Canada; and applying to Sir Francis Bond Head, received the following:
" Government House,
"Toronto, 23rd October, 1837.
" Sir : — His Excellency, the Lieutenant-Governor, has had under ccn-
sideration your Memorial of the 1 9th October, inst., addressed to His Excel
lency in Council, and in substance, requesting, that the amount due to you by
the Welland Canal Company should be paid in debentures, at the rate for
which they have been disposed of to otheis; or, if required, at five percent.
premium. " You state, as your reason for making this request, that you had come
under engagements to furnish the debentures, and that you had incurred ex
pense and loss of time in the negotiation of them.
"His Excellency, in answer, desires me to say, that upon the pas,sage of
the Act of the Provincial Parliament, authorizing the issue of debentures
payable in England, His Excellency was most anxious that the object of the
Legislature, namely, the raising of money to carry on the public works,
should be carried into effect, and that with this sole view, debentures were
sold at the highest rate that could be obt-ained for them, in the Province,
that is to say, at par, no higher amount having been offered.
"Since this sale of debentures, information from England has shewn, that
in London the confidence in the credit of the Province had become sufficiently
restored to give rise to an opimon that debentures could he safely remitted
and drawn against, immediately, with the expectation of a ready sale ofthe
securities, which opinion would not have been warranted by the previous
intelligence, at to the state of the money market.
" The improved value of the debentures, not producing, as might have
been expected, higher tenders within the Province, the Government was
forced to consider whether it might not be more advantageous to dispose of
the securities in London, as the Provincial demand did not seem sufficient
to ensure the .sale of the debentures at their current value.
"This course has been adopted with respect to the whole sum proposed
to be expended for tbe Welland Canal, during the current vear,
" His Excellency being desirous that the debts of the canal should be im
mediately discharged, ami that no further impediment should be found in
the way of that important work, desires me to say, that while on the one
hand the public faith would have prevented him from authoiizing the pay
ment of a Provincial debt, in securities not equal to the legal currency of
the Province — on the other, he does not feel that the public interest permits
him to direct such payment in a medium more valuable. He has felt that
simple payment in the currency in which the debt was contracted, was the
only safe and just method of discharging public engagements, and in fact,
the only one which the law authorized.
"His Excellency regrets that a disappointment on the part of the Bank,
in not being permitted to negotiate de! entures at par, has caused you in
convenience and expense ; but he cannot permit ]irivate engagements or
disappointments ai-ising froui tbem, to interfere with tho uniform course
which he has felt himself bound to follow, namely, the discharge of the
public liabilities in the currency which the Legislature of the Province has
seen fit to sanction, and in no other.

173
"Anangements have been made, as above stated, with the least possible
delay, to enable the Welland Canal Comp-any to discharge the debt to you :
and His Excellency has every reason to believe that the amount is forth
coming, when you see fit to apply for it.
" I have the honour to be. Sir,
" Your most obedient humble servant,
"J. JOSEPH.
" To William Hamilton Merritt, Esq.,
" St. Catharines."
The following trial of slander against one of the officers of the Canal
Company is from Charles Lindsay's Life of Mackenzie : —
"T'he trial came off at Niagara, on the 12th October, 1837, before Mr.
Justice Macaulay and a special jurjf. In accordance with his usual practice,
in such cases, Mr. Mackenzie undertook his own defence ; his Solicitor Mr.
. Price, making occasional suggestions as to the examination of witnesses.
Mr. R. E. Burns and Mr. Rolland Macdonald, of St. Catharines, were
counsel for the Plaintiff, Beaton.
"Mr. Mackenzie, before the suit was commenced, admitted in writino- to
the plaintiffs attorney the authorship of the alleged libel, and confident of
the truth of his statements he had challenged much higher game than Beaton
to make his allegations subject of judicial investigation. What Mr. Mac
kenzie did say was : 'If Mr. Merritt and his friends choose to go a step
farther, and place all my numbers before a jury of the country, and assert
that they are untrue and published from unjustifiable motives and for im
proper purposes, there also will I meet them; the whole bar of Upper Canada
Whig and Tory, is at their service : the Judges are not said to be prej udiced
in my favor, nor the Sheriff, and as to the proofs of authorship and publica
tion, I will deliver on demand copies of the several numbers, each endorsed
by my own signature, to any person Mr. Menitt's attorney may name."
The Judge allowed the whole of the papers to be brougnt into Court
and thus permitted Mr. Mackenzie to accuse our subject before a Niao-ara
Siudience, to whom he had every reason to believe -his accusations would not
be distasteful. Mr. Merritt attended the trial, which terminated in a ver
dict in favor of his friend, Mr. Beeton.
The St. Catharines Journal of November 23rd, a fortnight before the
demonstration back of Toronto, says :
" We understand that the young men in the neighbourhood of Lyon's
Creek, and the Chippawa, under plea of opposing a draft, have supplied
themselves with rifle.-j, and are frequently seen training."
After a long lecture, it concludes with a more practical warning :
" At any rate, we are quite satisfied that the first use of these rifies in
opposing the necessary act of the Government, would elevate their owners
full as high in the eye of the public, as they now stand in their own
estimation." Extract from Mr. Merritt, jumor's, journal :
" We heard much of disaffection beginning to manifest itself among the
people of Yonge Street, to which we gave little attention. It was none of
our business ; why should we 1 When the last company of military left us,
we were at the college gate, seeing their departure, and gave Mackenzie (who

174
followed to see them clear) a very hearty huzza. He very politely bowed
to us, and passed on. I felt at the time a sort Of dread for the man, for
which I could not explain.
"In December the rebellion broke upon us most unexpectedly. The mght
before, we had heard of preparations being made, but considered the actual
event a thing far off. The ringing of the alarm bells that awoke some
of the boys, was considered merely a lark of the porter. In the morning,
however, the full force of the reality came upon us most startling. We got
freed from college by it, and perhaps were not very much grieved at the event.
" How astonishingly it effected Mr, Thomas Keefer, who, though in bed
from a flesh wound which I gave him in sport with a horse- whip the night
before, and quite unable, as he affirmed, to attend college, foiind his sinews
so strengthened, that he was up and well able to run as soon as any of us.
" It was a curious sight to behold ! Guards of civilians hanging about the
Government House ! The shops all closed ! People hurrying silently in all
directions, some with anus, and some without. And there, at the Town
Hall, where were assembled the cannon, with torches ready to be lighted,
and the arms distributed. Melancholy exhibited in every countenance.
All was new and strange ! Nothing was done that day, but various move
ments took place in the town. Baracading the streets, and filling houses
with men. All was exciting. It was indeed a change, agreeable from our
dull business at college. This was something like life ! We had often read
in history of rebellions — war — but had never experienced the feeling of the
immediate presence of conflict ! Of a real state of things when human Iffe
is held at a very cheap rate. Next day, by going too near where the rebels
were stationed, wa were taken prisoners. While in durance, I saw a sentry
aim his rifle at a person who was running away, but the action seemed so
common-place, so lausiness-like, so suited to the time and place, that we took
little warning from it, but sleeked away ourselves in like manner.
" On Tuesday, as college was entirely broken up, we asked permission
to go home, and obtained it. Fortunately for us, a steamer left that night
for Hamilton, in which we took passage, namely, Jas. Ingersoll and Thomas
Keefer. Arrived in the- moming, and took stage imniediately. But on ac-
eount ofthe badness of the roads, did not reach the termination of our jour
ney until three o'clock next morning.."
Monday, 4th December, 1837. — McKenzie and his forces appeared in
the vicinity of Toronto, which gave rise to the most alarming reports.
Mrs. Merritt's journal says : —
"Tuesday, 5th Decernber. — In the morning we were talking ofthe troubles
in Lower Canada, little dreaming of their being so near our own doors. In
the afternoon heard that Toronto was taken. The report was, however
shortly afterwards contradicted.
" Wednesday, 6th. — Mr.Menitt went up to the " Short Hills," hearing
of meetings there. Saw their chairman Mr. Bi-ady, from whom he learned
they were all of one mind for reform, but wished it brought about in a peace
able way — and that they had no intention of taking up arms.
" Thursday, 7th. — J. P. went down in company with the troop, who in
tended going to Toronto. In the evening, the boys who were at U. C.
College, returned by Hamilton, gave us the account ofthe rebels bein<r driven
back, with killed, and prisoners, and that the place was crowded vrith^militia,
and were more in need of provisions than men.

175
" On the same evening, some scouts made a reconnoisanco to the "Short
Hills," and brought in two prisoners,whom they found armed. Notwithstand
ing the protestations given to Mr. Merritt formerly, that there were no
armed gathtrings intended, as it was considered impolitic, to proceed rigour -
ously at present, they were released.
" Friday, 8th. — Our cavalry, composed of the young men of this village,
have this instant returned from Niagara, "galloping round and hurrahing at
every street corner.
"On Mr. Merritt's return, he had prepared to leave the ensuing day,
with oiie hundred men, for Toronto — but on hearing that it was re
lieved, and filled with the militia, he turned his attention to sending supplies.
There is a vessel, the " Jessie Wood," laden with beef, pork, and flour, ready
to go from this place.
'¦' Sunday moming. — The soldiers were aroused from a sound sleep, by
orders for every one to go to the lines — that there were five hundred coming
over. All got off by 7. The excitement is on the increase, and may end in
more bloodshed.
" 0 ! what a Sunday we spent. The boys hava been busy in makin/ji
cartridges and running bullets. What will another week bring forth for
our poor distressed country t "
A number of fhe magistrates being gathered at Niagara, it was considered
advisable to assemble, and use their magisterial authority for the preservation
of the peace and safety of the comm unity. Yet most alarm prevailed in the coun
try. The training and assembling of armed bands, similar to whiit had occurred
at Toronto, in the interior of the district, formed adequate occasion tor these
alarms. Mr. Merritt was appointed chairman. And leaving the truop to -the
guidance of his lieutenant, entered heartily into his magisterial duties. Many
persons were arrested by the patroUers and scouts ; these were at once dis
missed, after due examination, and no person was incarcerated for his radical or
even republican opinions. This policy gave Mr. Merritt great popularity among
tbe crest-fallen and defeated radicals, especially when contrasted with tho
severity with -which they were treated in other places, as Hamilton, London, and
Toronto. The alarm had reached and aroused the furthest station, among his re
mote constituency, as the following spirited offer will testify : —
"Cayuga, December 8th, 1837.
" William Hamilton Merritt, Esq.,
"Dear Sir:—
" I have a meeting at Windecker's tavern, and have 55 volunteers ready
to march at a moment's notice, whenever their services rnay be required at
anyplace in the province. -Please give me directions, and I will march im
mediately." Yours truly,
"JOHN CROCKER."
Mr. Merritt had taken an insurance agency from the St. Lawrence
Marine Company. But a notice in a business letter from the agent, contains
an item for a supposition that in this time of turmoil, it was not satisfactorily
attended to: —

176 "Prescott, 15th Dec. 1837.
" Sir :—
* * * * " As you have so much other business to attend to,
I think it would be well to appoint J. T. Bowery as agent in your place."
" Yours truly,
"A. JONES,
" Secretary.''
Two days after Mackenzie's effecting his escape, his old friend the Engi
neer, writes : "Lockport, Wednesday, 13th December, 1837.
" William Hamilton Merritt, Esq.,
" Dear Sir: —
" I have just heard this evening that William Lyon Mackenzie had de
livered himself last evening to a large audience, ha-ving obtained tbe
theatre for the purpose, in Buffalo. His object is evident, but I have not
heard the result. Probably he endeavoured to stir up their pure minds by
way of remembrance. There are always enough to listen on such occasions,
whether it is a history of real evils, or the images that flll a madman's brain.
News came also that he was to visit this place to-mori-ow, but I anticipate
that he will meet with disappointment. I do not believe that there is a man
so weak as to be influenced to participate with him. The impression is
ci-eneral here, that they have taken up arms for their love of revolt, or to get
the advance of events that may happen. " I am, with much esteem,
" Your obedient servant,
"A. BARRETT."
The attraction of Canada soil had drawn him to Navy Island, the occu
pation of which by his Buffalo band was doubtless the matter cf importance
which "required their utmost ingenuity to meet."
" Chippawa, Saturday, 16th December, 1837.
" William Hamilton Merritt, Esq.,
" Dear Sir : —
" If you can come over to-night. Col. Cameron desires me to say he would
be much obliged. Matters of importance have occurred, which requii-e our
utmost ingenuity to meet. " I am, yours truly,
" WILLIAM KINGSMILL."
Another extract from Mr. Merritt's journal of Sunday, 17th, says :—
" H. received information to go to Chippawa. Mackenzie & Co. is on Navy
Inland, showing their presence by firing on a boat. He left at 4 o'clock in tbe
morning. There was but 40, but they would have done what they could to
prevent a landing. He rode the whole night, up and down, from Black Rock
Ferry above, to Fort Erie, considering that the most available part. Drums
and fifes were going all night opposite. J. P. with his company of Horse
there in the afternoon, and returned next day."
A communication from the Chief shows how our proceedings were looked
on from the capitol :

177 " Toronto, 27th December, 1837.
" W. H. Merritt, Esq.
"My Dear Sir ; — My brother has been most laboriously and incessantly
occupied here, in assisting the Commissioners in investigating the cases of
prisoners. His extensive knowledge of the people of the very part ofthe country
where this abominable insurrection was hatched, has enabled him to be most
useful to the Government ou the one hand, and to the persons charged, and
their unfortunate families, on the other. I believe there is a strong feeling of
gratitude on the part of many of these poor people, for the trouble he has taken
to see that they were not too harshly dealt with. It was so strongly urged upon
him to visit that part of the country, and particularly by the inhabitants them
selves, that he could not decline. I expect him back to-day.
" As the Legislature meets to-morrow, I dare say you will not be absent
long, if at all ; and I have therefore little encouragement to write at any length,
as I hope so soon to see you.
" What is now taking place on our frontier has not surprised me half so
much as the events in my own neighbourhood. From the moment it was made
evident, as it has been in most of the States of the union, that the most terrible
outrages against the laws are beyond the control of their Governmerrt ; when
ever large bodies of people favor them — from that time the probability of such
an occurrence as the present, has never been absent from my mind. Itis clear
that a nation with only a standing army of 5,000 men, scattered over a country
as large as Europe, is not to be depended on for preventing 20,000 of their
people from rushing into this Province, to join in the work of confusion, when
ever they may fancy they see an opening.
" From the instant the slightest demonstration was made at Buffalo, I
thought it of infinitely more consequence than anything that had yet hap
pened. And if it had depended on me, I would have, with 50 of the Royal
Artillery, and a regiment ofthe line, hastened to the spot with all possible ex
pedition , and have militia added to them as fust as they could be assembled.
"If this should get ahead, we shall have serious times yet, and let what may
come of this, unless the British Government act now like a great nation, and
establish such defences on our frontier as will speak plainly that they mean to
keep the country, we may make up our minds that we shall have no peace or
security in Upper Canada.
" I have a good deal to say to you on this subject, when we meet. It does
astonish me, that no American officer of high standing, Scott, Worth, or Gaines,
for instance, should have been sent instantly to the frontier from Washington ,
to see that their laws were enforced. I can hardly think but that the inter
position of such a power as ofthe Governor ofthe State, on the spot, would
fail of being effectual. Their militia should be called out, and stationed on
the frontier, so as effectually to cut off communication with the island. By a
prompt measure of this kind, the rebels would be caught in a trap, and must
surrender at discretion. Sooner or later our neighbours must give us serious
trouble . The present affair I hope and believe, may yet be controlled before
matters become much worse. "Yours sincerely,
"J. B. ROBINSON."
Our subject did no^ enter into any of the military proceedings of the times,
but rather discountenanced them. From his previous experience of
actual conflict, he always designated Mackenzie's attempted revolution and

178
the invasion of sympathizers and brigands afterwards, as the " Monkey-
War." We will close with noticing that Mr. Merritt spent the end ofthe year
between home and Niagara, at the Board of Magistrates trying the prisoners-
or at least acquitting them, and as alluded to, and on the threatened frontier.
The following correspondence will explain some of the circumstances attending
the occupation of Navy Island, in which our subject was interested.
Christmas. — H. and the boys on the lines. The next day he and Dr.
Beadle sent on commission to Buffalo. " Buffalo, 28th December, 1837.
" Doctor J. Prendergast.
" My Dear Sir: — I came over yesterday to see your Marshal Mr. Garrow,
who was sent for the purpose of putting your laws into execution, and prevent
individuals arming, and carrying on a war against us — but he acknowledged
very candidly his doubts whether tlie civil authorities can carry the law into
execution. We will therefore hiu-e to depend on ourselves. '\Ve have a large
force of militia, about 3,000 men on the line. Expect two regiments of troops,
24th and 32nd, up in a few days. The rebellion is put down most effectually
iu Upper and Lower Canada, and we have nothing more to fear from internal
strife. " Yours &c., '• W. H. JIERRITT."
'¦Buffalo, 29th December, 1837.
" Hon. William Hamilton Merritt, M. P.P.
" IlE.iD Qu.\.RTERS, ChIPPA-\VA.
"Sir: — Permit me to introduce to your acquaintance. Judge McLean,
of this city, who goes to Chippawa with a message to Colonel McNab, kc.
"I am, your obedient servant.
" H. W. ROGERS."
'¦- December 30th, 1837.
" To Jlerritt, Rykert, or any other Magistrate :
" Sia : — Tha bearer of this informs me he has a Durham boat 70 ft. long,
fit for service, but he has no means of getting her here. Will you be pleased to
afford every assistance in your power towards having her forwarded here with
out delay, as it is most material for Her Majesty's service that we should have
her. I am, sir, your most obedient servant,
"ANDREW DREW.
"Capt. Royal Navy."
Mrs. Merritt's journal, as well as that of her son, is full of incidents
during the outbreak. But we forbear givijg further extracts.

1838.
" St. Catharines, 9th January, 1838.
"Mt Dear Parents : — W. H. Merritt went to Toronto last week, as
the Parliament is in session. He only stayed two days. Said he could
be more useful in this quarter, at the present. He left yesterday for the
frontier. " C. M."

179
Mr. Merritt, who had been attending in his place at the Parliament in
Toronto, on hearing that the number of the Canadian refugees and sympa
thizers from the States who had taken, still held Navy Island, re
turned home, and in his capacity as a magistrate, in conjunction with Col.
McNab, who commanded the Militia, proceeded to arrange measures for the
defence of tke frontier, and the expulsion of the invaders. Oursubje9t had
been engaged in arrangements for a commissary supply, and providing
boats for the contemplated attack on the island. A number of boats were
eollected, and many of them drawn over land by ox-teams, from the canal to
the Niagara River. A council was held, in which he volunteered, with the
Militia, to attack the island, but the argument that this would cause a loss of
valuable lives, and the fact of the United States authorities moving in the
matter, decided them not to make an immediate assault. Demonstrations
were set on foot by Col. Drew and his naval volunteers, by sail
ing round the island, and isolating them from their base of supplies, and also
destroying their steam ferry the " Caroline." This was considered enough
for the present. The duty on the frontier was severe, as a number of the
Militia died through sickness, brought on by exposure, die. Three men
were killed by cannon shot from the island. The 2nd Cavalry Troop from
St, Catharines did good service. A company of Regulai-s afterwards ar
riving, a number of the Militia were relieved from duty, and allowed to
return home. Through the energy displayed on both sides of the Niagara
frontier, the defence ceased by the middle of January, and the invaders
decamped, moving westward.
A general movement of troops and change of high officials occurred.
Lord Gossford left by the Meppepediac Road and Halifax. The 34th regi
ment started on the 17th January, for Quebec. The 71st Highlanders
arrived in February. There were, with the^ re-inforcenients at this time,
about 10,000 Regulars.
A letter to the Governor on the question of passing through the States
from Mr. Merritt, elictits the following reply. Febuary.
" My Dear Sir : — You must be well aware that the public always know
my plans before I know them myself, and this is really the case in the in
stance to which you kindly allude, for I have not yet had time to think which
way I had better return, and until I hear that Sir George Arthur has actu
ally arrived, I think it is useless to form any plan which should of course be
influenced by the existing circumstances, at the moment of my departure.
" If it should be advisable to go the route you propose, I will immedi
ately communicate with you on the subject, and in the meanwhile beg to
thank you for your obliging note. Yours very faithfully,
"F. B. HEAD."
The author visited the Capital during this session, and stopped at Per
ry's boarding house. Being in the vicinity of the Parliament, it was occu-

180
pied by the members, of whom he remembers Colonel Burwell, Colville,
Aickman and Slade. These were of all shades of politics. A great deal of
warmth was expressed. Among tha members. Col, Prince was particularly
demonstrative, having declared he would execute the next invaders of our
country, which threat he carried into execution at the end of this year.
Our subject, in the mean time, attending to his duties in the House. At
the end of the session, Sir F. Bond Head returned to England, and was
succeeded by Sir George Arthur.
On the 6th day of March the House closed, passing eighty-two bills,
nearly half of which were rejected in the Upper House.
Amongst the many who were arrested for participation in the late rebel
lion, were two men named Lount and Matthews. They were sentenced to
be hung. Petitions for their reprieve were got up, containing 10,000 names,
more or less; those from Haldimand and Niagara were brought over to
Toronto by Mr. Merritt, and presented to the Governor — we insert one —
but without effect, as they were afterwards executed.
To his Excellency, Sir George Arthur, Lieutenant Governor of the Pro
vince of Upper Caivxda, Mafor General coimnanding His Majesty's
forces therein, Knight Commander of the Royal Hanovarian Gulphic
Order.
" May it please Your Excellency —
"We the undersigned Sheriff, Magistrates, Representatives, and Free
holders of the District of Niagara, beg leave to congratulate your Excellen
cy on assuming the government of this province, at the same time they deep
ly sympathize with your Excellency on being called upon, at so early a peri
od, to exceroise the Royal parogativa, on those who have justly forfeited
their lives, by committing the most aggravating offense recognized by our
law. " The Almightj', in his infinite mercy, was pleased to preserve the Capi
tal of this Province, and permit his Majesty's subjects jjromptly to suppress
the last rebellion with the loss of but one individual.
"That mercy which is considered the most noble attribute of the Royal
perogative, is now vested in you and if yo-ar Excellency entertain the opin
ion, that it can be exercised with equal eflect for the public good, by banish
ing beyond the seas, those individuals who are or may be condemned to
death, your Excellency may feel assured, this act of clemency and meroy,
will meet the most cordial approbation of the undersigned, who most sin
cerely pray your Excellency may, by the wisdom of your councils and
government, be enabled to contribute to the prosperity of this rising
Province. " Thomas Merritt, Ex-Sheriff, k J. P.,
"Alexander Hamilton, Sheriff N. D.,
"W. Hamilton Merritt, M. P. P. dj J. P.,
" Geo. Rykert, M. P. P. k J. P.,
"H. Mittleberger, J. P.,
" E. Adams, J. P.,
" Richard Woodruff, M. P. P.,
" David Thorburn, M. P. P.

181
.The following letter gives a glimpse of feeling in the Lower Provinces,
afterthe excitement in the United States, by the destruction ofthe steamer
¦" Caroline." " Government House,
" Frederickton, Feb. 21st, 1838.
" Sir :—
" Great events have occurred in the Canadas since I h-ave been the re
cipient of a letter from you. This Province is loyal to a man^ It is so ob
viously contrary to the interests of England and the United States, to go to
war with each other, that I cannot bring myself to entertain the slightest
apprehension on that head. Yours, kc. J. HARVEY."
During this period of military excitement, there was more done in the
House than passing laws for treasonable offenders. But so entii-ely
changed was the legislation of the day, that it was considered politic by
the Military Engineer and President of the Welland Canal, that no more
outlay should be made in that direction, but should, we suppose, be devoted
to fortifying and military defences, at least for more immediate necessity.
It was late in the season before the report of tha Directors, for the pro
ceeding year, was published. A letter of sympathy from his friend.
Chief Justice Jones, at the gloomy prospect of the fate of the stoppage of
our public works, enclosed the following : " Toronto, 5th March, 1838.
" To the Honourable Mr. Chief Justice Jones:
" My Dear Judge : —
" You will have seen by the Report ofthe Welland Canal Commissioners,
how it is made to appear that an average loss of £14,000 per annum has
been sustained by the Province, since the period when, according to the
Pteport of the Directors at that time, the canal was completed. In this
sum, no account is taken of tha interest paid for loans made by the public,
to take up their amount of stock ; neither is a-~.y mention made of the fact
that about £20,000 of interest (or more) is due to the British Government.
" It is quite certain that within the next seven years, the greater part
of the present locks will require to be renewed, at what cost, the Report of
Messrs, Baird and Killaly will shew. It will, in fact, be at a charge of not
less than £20 0,000. The harbours of Port Dalhousie and Port Colborne
will also require a very considerable outlay, whether the project of Messrs.
Baird and Killaly ba executed or not ; but that project would be of such
manifest advantage to the Province, even without a, canal, thafi cannot but
.... ^
hope that it will be carried into effect.
" Assuming that £280,000 will be sufficient to put fhe canal in a state
of perfection, equal to any that can be attained by a similar work, there.
must always be a large item of expenditure in the shape of repairs — towing
paths, swing-bridges, gates, and dredging, to wit.
" Up to the present period, the receipts of all kinds have averaged very
little, more than £5,000 per annum, the greater part of which is derived from
toll on goods from' America to American ports.
" If at any future paried, the trade should so increase as to make the
construction of a canal on the American side a profitable speculation, such

182
canal will be forthwith made. It is, in fact, already in contemplation, and
the American Government has expended large sums in procuring preliminary
reports and estimates for such an undertaking.
"Nearly all the trade from America to American ports, would pass
through their canal, when constracted, rather than ours. We might count
on the first three or four weeks of Spring, and no more. But the heaviest
shipments of goods upwards, is in the Autumn.
"I can see no reason, therefore, for assuming that we are going, for any
length, or even for a short time, to enjoy the benefit of the increased trade
which may ultimately be carried on between tha two lakes. In the mean
time, it is certain, that if we complete tha canal, we shall sink not
£14,000, as I said in my report, but £16,000 at least, per annum, to.gether
-with the interest on all the money already expended. For what period we
must sustain such loss, it is, of course, impossible to foresee ; I think, pro
bably, abo-it seven years, when the canal may, if completed, begin to pay
its expenses, and some portion of the interest on the Provincial loans.
These are not very flattering prospects, 'tis true, but I do not wish to induce
any belief in others, in which I do not myself participate. If the Province
can afford to go on with this work with such little hope of advantage there
from, in a pecuniary point of view, I should be the last person in it to say or
do aught which could have the effect of detening our flnancial rulers ; because
I believe that, until we become a portion of the Republic (which I hope
not to see) this line of water communication is essential to the defence of
our Niagara frontier. I have no intention of refusing my services, so long
as they may be required, in carrying out the ^'iews of the Legislature, nor
am I inclined to admit that because I have a clear conception of the ruin
ous expenditure to be incurred, I should fail to use my best endeavours to
keep that expenditure at a minnium. " Believe me, very truly yours,
"J. MACAULAY.
Remarks on the Report of the Directors of the Welland Canal Co.
FOR 1837.
" This Report states, that there is a great increase of tonnage, although
the tolls have fallen short of the two preceding years. Names £1,000 in
the single article of merchandise, and admits that but for the commercial
difficulties, the tolls would have exceeded any preceding year. It then
states the average annual expenditure at £21,039. 8. 9. And the average
amount of tolls at £6,999. 6. 6. Shewing an average annual loss of £14,040.
2. 3 ; in confirmation of which, it is asserted that the canal can be maintained
only at this sacriflce, and concludes. by recommending the abandonment of
the work. The most superficial observer will at once perceive the erroneous
data in which those conclusions have been formed. 1st. — The annual ex
penditure of a work which was not finished, is assumed at £21,039. When
after the completion, repairs will not cost much over the interest on the
principal of tha same period last year. 2nd. — The average amount of tolls
kc, is assumed at £4,999. 6. 6. for five years past. This data supposes the
work must recede for five years to come. I think in 1832 the tolls were
not over £300. I have no doubt, if the work goes on, that in tive years
from this time, the toll will be £50,000, in place of £4,999. 6. 6. The aban
donment would be as justifiable on public grounds, as suicide in a private
individual, is the opinion of W. H. MERRITT."

183 " St. Catharines, March 18, 1838.
' To Dr. j. Prendergast.
"My Dear Sir : Having returned from the Legislature abo-.it a week
since, I will give you a brief survey of our proceedings. My last letter wa'i
directed from Buffalo, and as an attack was then, and sometime afterward,
daily expected on Navy Island, I did not go to Toronto until the 15th of
January. I was then appointed Chairman of the Finance Committtee, and
was closely engaged during tha winter. Some useful measures were pass
ed, and a number of resolutions on the union of the Pro-vinces, which I
drew up, and a majority ofthe House was for sen ling me as a Commission
er to England, but I declined. We want but one Legislature in, these Pro-
-yinces, and I trust that object will be effected.
" We have no apprehension of a war with the UMted States,, and the
rabble who have given us so much troubla has baen generally dispersed.
Great changes will unquestionably take place here, and I trust fo-r- our ben
efit. I intend applying myself to milling. Will have six van of stone
readv this week.
"W. H.M."
" I have lost a vessel, containing 4,000 bushfds of wheat, five mile.s
from the Grand River., The men came off, and when the -wind changed,
she drifted out into the lake. This wheat at a value of lis per bushel,
would have amounted to over $6,000."
The effect of our rebellion in England, was tlie bringing in \>y Lord Rus
sell, and the passage of a bill through the Inqici ial Parliament, to annul the
constitution of I,.3wer Canada for six years, and appointing (16th of Janu
ary,) Earl Durham Governor General and High Commissioner.
We have given biographies of Governors of long residence in the coun
try, but this one, whose residence on the soil of Upper Canada was but a
few days, had the greatest influence, perhaps, of any who ever visited u'-.
Of great connection being the son-in-law of Earl Gray, he had attained a high
station of influence, but unfortunately for his usefulness in this monarch
ical colony, his politics were low.
Lord Durham had been an ultra reformer, from the time he took his
seat in the House of Commons, in the 22nd year of his age, as Mr. Lambton.
He is now in his 40th year.
The Times rem-wks, " If his LDrlshi;) gives satisfaction, he must please
Joseph Hume and Mr. Grote, " Com multis alias " of that description, as well
as Lord Melbourne and John Russell, who are dependent on Joseph and
Grote, for their existence as ministers."
It was rather an unfortunate state of affairs that great political changes
will be made through this influence, but the colonist of native origin has the
satisfaction of knowing, if there be any satisfaction in the fact, that be they
whig or tory, it is all the same to him.
28th May. — Lord Durham arrived at Quebec, and issued his proclama
tion, calling on the co-operation of the honest and conscientious reformers,
for amelioration of defective institutions, and says : —

184
"They will receive from me that assistance and encouragement that
their patriotism has a right to command."
In answer to this, Mr. Merritt, considering that his attention to the
measures for the settlement of the country was the most important subject
to which he could at present devote his time, visited the Governor at Quebec,
and left with him the results of his experience in a memorial, a copy of which
is before us. This correspondence was renewed later in the season, and as
it throws light on the circumstancs of Mr. Menitt's having adopted Lord
Durham's report, we see that much accords with, if it is not incorpo
rated in His Lordship's Report, which was published in London the
ensuing January. We give an extract of the first one.
^ .,,, „ " Albion Hotel, Quebec, May 30, 1838.
" Chas. Duller, Secretary.
"Sir : — Chance having brought me to this place on the arrival of His
Excellency, the Earl of Durham, Gov. Gen., and having read with great
satisfaction his proclamation of yesterday, I availed myself of the in-vitation
therein contained, and felt it my duty to call the attention of His Excellen
cy to one subject — and one only — which embraces the vital interest and fu
ture welfare of these provinces, viz : The union of Upper and Lower Canada.
"The State of New York is governed by one united Legislature, -with a
population of two mijlions of people, and lays side by side with the Pro
vinces of Upper and Lower Canada, which have three-quarters of a million
inhabitants, and is governed by two distinct Legislatures. It affords a most
striking illustration ofthe practical effects of the two systems.
" A united Legislature has completed the most gigantic improvements
uniting Lakes Erie and Champlain, both being tributaries of the St. Law
rence, with the Hudson, and diverted the greater part of the trade of the
Western country from its natural channel, and the seaports of Montreal
and Quebec, to New York. While a divided Legislature possessing every
natural advantage, with the most magnificient water communication in the
"world, has not, up to the present moment, finished any one improvement.
" Those general assertions, the truth of which can be proved to a demon
stration, is quite sufficient to elicit inquiry, which is the only object in
presenting them. The only effectual remedy is a union, all other measures
are of secondary consideration. Establish one common interest and our
exertion will be directed to one common object. Upper Canadians, Lower
Canadians, English, Irish, and foreigners, will unite in improving our situ
ation, and making a prosperous country of CanadI, it will allay all
party feeling and restore a proper spirit. Lower Canadians may at first
oppose the measure. The citizens of New York opposed the commencement
ofthe Erie Canal, but when they perceived their interest promoted by the
measure, they readily came into the spirit of it, and so -w-ith the Canadians.
" By adopting this measure, His Excellency may truly say, he has laid
the foundation of a system of government which will determine, whether
the arrival of your Excellency on our shores is to promote our future
prosperity for all time to come, or confirm our remaining many years in
the same state of apathy in which you will find us. "
"His Excellency, Lord Durham. " I have the honor to be
" Most respectfully, your Excellency's obed't,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT, M. P. P."

185
The political and financial troubles had put a stop to the work on the new
Episcopal Church. The congregation had been forced to occupy the Academy
since the destruction ofthe old one. This Spring a great deal of conespon.Jence
between "Old Hundred" a >d "Amicus, " a friend to the completion of the
Church and "Plagram" resulted in an action at the Easter meeting, that pro
duced the much needed improvement.
The season of navigation having opened, he visited Cleveland, on his
own private business. Whilst in the States, he took every opportunity of
giving information in reference to the canal. On his return, he went to
Quebec and met the new Governor-General, the Earl of Durham.
On returning from Quebec, he again started for Cleveland. On resting
at Chippawa, he was informed by his old friend Col. Cummings, that a re
port had arrived of a number of men having crossed the river, and were
secreted in the woods; and the following deposition was made :
"Niagara District. \
TO WIT. j
" Thomas Darling, of Grantham, appeared before me, W. Hamilton Mer
ritt, one of Her Majesty's Justices of the Peace in and for the aforesaid Dis
trict, and deposes, that on Saturday evening, the 1 Gth of June, he heard
John Burger, of Pelham say that 1000 men had crossed the river, undoubt
edly they were radicals, and were somewhere concealed, place not described.
Also heard Jacob Russell say on Sunday the 17th inst., that he had infor
mation from some person from the United States, (name unknown) that a
number were secreted in the Short Hills, and deponent believes there are
men secreted in that neighborhood ; but in order to more clearly ascertain
the fact, will go and obtain further information, and either biing the parties
affording the same before me or some other of His Majesty's Justices of the
Peace, on this day Monday, or give such information as he may have obtain
ed and the facts more clearly a-^certained.
" Monday morning, 10 o'clock, lOtli June, 1838.
W. H. MERRITT, J. P. "
As already numerous similar stories, to the injury cf trade, had
been circulated, he disbelieved it, but offered his ser-vices to further
investigate the matter. The offer not being encouraged, he proceeded on
bis way to Cleveland. Fortunately, it was so, as the rumour, in a few days,
was found to be true. A body of men being in possession of the " Short
Hills," in a strong position. However, a detachment of " Lancers " were
sent from the Falls, and were attacked by this party on the morning of the
19th of June. On the news reaching St. Catharines, the " Lancers " were
re-inforced by the Sedentary Troop of Cavalry, who, together, succeeded in
routing the invaders from their camp, and making a number of prisoners.
The wounded were recovered, and taken to the Falls. A general scouring
of the section then took place, when nearly all the disaffected found in amis
were arrested, and taken to Niagara. Moreau, the leader of the party, was
hung.

186
Mr. Killaly had been appointed resident engineer, 15th May. Agisted
by Mr. Robinson and George Coventry, he inspected the Grand River, for
the purpose of the Government buying out the company. He reported on
it 16th November. After the usual annual election of directors of the
Grand River Navigation Company, Mr. Merritt had been appointed pre.si-
dent the preceding year; and in his report to the Goverment, agreed to the
sale, on behalf of the company, about the same time.
Geo. Prescott was appointed secretary of the canal, 1st November, and
we now see his name to tha usual advertisements for the election ofthe stock
holders. He continued in the employment of the Government, on the canal,
as secretary and paymaster, till his decease, twelve years afterwards.
One hundred and thirty vessels passed through the oanal in one month.
In July, Earl Durham arrived in this section, and visited the Falls,
where a series of grand reviews, fetes, die, were held.
He remained four days, during which was held a sham fight between
the 34th Highlanders and the other corps on this frontier, in their National
costume; all which, added to the natural attractions, caused an unusual gath
ering of United States visitors.
Lord Darham returned by the river and lake. In the fall dispatches
arrived disannulling some of his Lordship's acts, causing him to resign.
October 11th, — The people of St. Cathaiines presented an address to
Lord Durham on his return to England.
Mr. Merritt took occassion of sending by Colonel Clark, the special
' agent appointed to carry it.
The following to Earl Durham, from our subject, shows that a sense
of the importance connected with the mission of His Lordship, not the en
couragement personally received, induced a renewal of the correspondence,
"I'o the Right Honourable, John George, Earl of Durliam, Governor-General
of British North America, d:c., <f-c., (tc^
" My Lord: — St. Catharines, Oct. 5.
" It was not my intention to have addressed you on the future govern
ment of these colonies, from a conviction that the plan recommended by tbe
opposition, to the present ministry in England, and which appears to be ad
hered to by your Excellency, does not afford the best means of obtaining
the information you desire.
" The clause proposed by Lord John Russell, composing a council to be
selected from the body of the people, to advise on the formation of a consti
tution for their future government, would have proved at least satisfactory,
as their personal interest in every measure proposed would have secured the
confidence of their constituents, and if they erred, their motives would have
been duly appreciated.
" By the amendment proposed by Sir Robert Peel, that clause was un
happily expunged, and a system of government is now to be proposed by
your Excellency, aided by such information as you may glean from official
sources, imparted by individuals who, -with the best possible intentions, have

187
not had an opportunity of mingling with the people, hearing their sentiments,
and acquiring such practical infoi-mation as to enable them to form a correct
judgment, on many measures which affect our interests.
Your Excellency may now and then receive a straggling communica
tion from individuals, giving an opinion on some abstract subject which they
might vary, change, or abandon on the first sound objection being offered ;
but a full, free, and open discussion of all the arguments, pro and con, on
each separate subject, from practical men, who possess the confidence of a
great majority of the inhabitants, your Excellency cannot possess.
"It is rumoured that the new constitution which your Excellency pro
poses to recommend for our future government, will (in case your Excellency
should remain, of which I never entertained a doubt,) be promulgated next
month ; and as you assume the entire responsibility of the measure, it is
natural you .should adhere to your first impressions: and this consideration,
and tMs alone, induces me to address your lordship on the subject ; and al
though the means which have been adopted to obtain the necessary infoi-ma-
tion on so important a question are at variance with my judgment, lam not
insensible ofthe anxiety your Excellency must feel in adopting such a system
as will insure the peace and prosperity of these provinces, particularly as
your future fame must be materially affected by the wisdom ofthe measures
you may recommend. I therefore take it for granted, though not agreeing
to every amendment, that a few suggestions from an individual whose only
object is an ardent desire to promote the future welfare of his fellow-country
men, may not be considered intrusive.
"The first act of your Excellency, was issuing a proclamation, under date
of May last, in which you state you wish for information. This expression
inspired a degree of confidence throughout the Canadas, among all classes,
for all feel the necessity of this change.
"The grand desideratum is to make this change effectual when made,
and to this subject the attention of your Excellency is particularly directed.
" Framing a constitution for the future government of a country situa
ted as these Pro-vinces are, may be considered a most difficult and complex
measure. But when we have the governments of Groat Britain, the United
States, and the British North American Provinces for our guide, it can
only require a thorough and correct knowledge of the practical operation of
their different systems, to frame a constitution which will place those Pro
vinces in the Situation which your Excellency has promised.
" We find, after the experience of centuries, England, Scotland, Ireland,
and their dependencies, with nearly thirty millions of people, comprising
different races — with a diversity of creed, and apparently sejiarate interests,
concentrated and combined for the mutual and general interest of all, in
one united Legislature. The unbounded prosperity and other advantages
those three kingdoms possess over most other nations, is by the best authority
entirely attributed to their forming one undivided state, or this concentra
tion of power.
" We find the United States, from the circumstance of their having been
originally Provinces, similar in a degree to the present British Provinces,
forined into a number of state legislatures, who again appoint one general
Congress for the government of the whole. The local boundaries of those
states were established with as much wisdom as human ingenuity at the
time possessed.' Still, jealousies and contradictions are daily developing in

188
many parts of that extensive union, and although their general prosperity is
admitted, the result of the experiment, after a dense population, becomes
established, is by no means certain. We find in British North America,
separate legislatures established, each one having a direct communication
with a branch of the government in England, at the head of which an indi
vidual is from time to time appointed, called a Colonial Secretary, who, in
fact, is the government of each of those Provinces, as all instructions to our
Governors (which are considered law) emanate from him.
" The constitution was designed to assimulate as near as practicable to
that of the mother country — to consist of three separate and distinct branches,
each possessing their due weight.
" At the period when it was first carried into operation, the Province
was thinly settled. Perhaps the only persons possessing sufficient intelli
gence resided in Toronto, and the most suitable persons were tben selected
to compose the executive and legislative councils from that town.
" Since that period, very great changes have taken place in the situatioh
of the Province, and many gentlemen of intelligence and weight reside in
the different districts, who possess their due local weight in their localities.
"The question of a responsible executive government has of late been
fully discussed, and the administration of Sir Francis Bond Head, although
it suceeeded for a time, has placed the Colonial Office in a most ungracious
light, and what rnust ultimately occupy the most unpopular position, by de
claring they were not responsible to the people, and could not be made .to
be so in a Colonial Government.
" And as if to prove iucontestably tothis Province, that they could ex
ercise that power to the injury of its inhabitants, tho Executive government,
under the same administration, contrary to the expi-essed opinion of the in
habitants, from all quarters, and contrary to the expressed o})inion of their
representatives in the House of Assembly, persisted in carrying into effect
a measure, with regard to specie payments, which almost annihilated the
trade, commerce, and credit of the country.
" This practical test created the most general discontent and had the
effect of producing more advocates against the Colonial powers, than all
the arg.uinents ever before advanced.
" The Legislative Council do not possess the confidence of the country.
There are honourable exceptions, but I speak of them as one branch of the
government. Many hold offices, and appear to possess a separate and distinct
interest from the body of the people. Hence, the Governor, the Executive
Council, and the Legislative Council are considered as one branch, in contra
distinction to the House of Coiinnons.
" If a durable government is formed for these colonies, it must be more
popular in its constitution; and to work well, each of the three branches must
possess its s parate and due weight. Tliis c-in oidy be effected by the Executive
Council being eompof^ed of individuals from different p,-n-ts of the Province,
who may be called upon to advise on any important question which relates to
the general community, whene-trer the Governor thinks proper.
" The other branch should be selected from individuals from different
districts, at least oue from euch, the remainder pro rata with their population,
and should not hold any office under the Provincial .Government.
" I can see no good reason why the same principle.'! which predominate in
the Government of Great Britain, if introduced here, would not produce the

189
same effects; and although I do not approve ofthe elective principle bein"- in
troduced in the Legislative Council, candour compels me to say that a great
majority of the people would feel better satisfied if at least a part was elected
from the different districts.
"It is reported that your Excellency has taken an extensive and comprehen
sive view of our Government, namely a union of all the future British Pro vines.
This measure is making the most favourable impression, the more it is dis
cussed, aad if your Excellency can only effect this one object, universal sat
isfaction would at once, and on the outset, be stamped on the measure. The
importance of which, renders it necesssary that its effects should be well con
sidered, in all their bearings .
" A union of Upper and Lower Canada would be equally satisfactory to
the inhabitants of this Province, provided a preponderance was given to the
inhabitants of British origin. To this project objections are urged by tha in
habitants of Lower Canada, thejustioe of which it is useless to at present dis
cuss. " The measure proposed by your Excellency, to unite all the Provinces re
moves those objections. The only question for discussion then is — whether the
Provinces could be best governed by a united Legislature, as in Britain, or
Provincial or State legislature, with a general Governmemt or Congress, as in
the United States.
" The annexation of a sea-port to Upper Canada is admitted to be ab
solutely necessary by all parties, and even this change alone would be sat
isfactory to the inhabitants of Upper Canada.
" On the practical operation or final result of this question, will the
future fame of your Excellency rest. To insure it beyond the possibility of
doubt or cavil, the following simple method is most respectfully submitted.
" In case your Excellency considers further delay unnecessary, and in
tends recommending a constitution at once, for the approval of the Imperial
Parliament, decide on one Legisl-ature for the whole, and a repeal of our
local Legislatures, and relieve us from the unnecessary expense of maintain
ing useless and powerless Governments ; (the civil list of this Province alone
exceeding £50,000 per annum.)
" Your Excellency will be assured tho inhabitants are firmly attached
to the British constitution, as now established, and desire no change. The
unbiased opinion of the people can be ascertained only by those who asso
ciate with them, to whom they freely commuMcate : and if I am to take the
opimon of those with whom I have conversed, in two or three districts, I
do not believe that there is one out of one hundred satisfied with the pres
ent Government of this Province, as now administered.
" And further, th'ey never will be satisfied until those Provinces become
equally as desirable a place of residence as the United States. This is in
tbe power of your Excellency to effect, and even make it more so, by con
centrating the power in one Legislature, without which it will be in vain
to make further experiments in the land-granting department, to encourage
extensive emigration. The attempt has been made again and again ! Some
thirty thousand souls came out for two or three years in succession, three-
fourths of which, at least, and many think nine-tenths, found their way to
the United States. And whatever emmi^ation may hereafter be made, we
¦will continue to be only a mere thoroughfare to that country."

190
After giving his Excellency an account of the commercial advantages of
the neighbouring States, from their having seaports and improvements con
necting them with the interior, the letter terminates thus : —
" What a humiliating spectacle for us do«s this state of things present
when contrasted with the present situation of Upper and Lower Canada,
where we see every public work in abeyance, public credit annihilated
property valueless, and our only hope resting on the contemplated change
in our present system.
" The cause which has ostensibly produced this contrast is due to the
division of power in our Legislatures of Upper and Lower Canada.
" I have the honour to be, my Lord,
" Your most obedient servant,
"WILLIAM HAMILTON MERRITT.
" St. Catharines, District of Niagara,
" Upper Canada."
This was succeeded by other communications, giving his Excellency the
results of his long business and Legislative experience, which have already
been shewn to some extent in this work, and will be further exhibited
during the administrations that were appointed to carry out Lord Durham's
policy. We cannot but recommend Sir Francis Head's narrative in answer
with the re]-)ort, as they both form imjjortant documents in our Canadian
history, and are both to be found in the Legislative proceedings of 1839.
Sir John Colborne entered into the administration of th« Government.
A proclamation of amnesty being issued on the 23nd of October, by
Sir Georg* Artkur, was suceeeded by a call of the militia.
Lord Durham's conciliatory speeches had no effect upon the revolution
ists, who still carried on their plots to found a Republic here, at a safe
distance on the other side of the river.
November 17th. — An attack on Prescott, foUo-wed by one at Windsor,
with some desultory burnings along the frontier, -w^re all the hostile or mili
tary demonstrations accomplished.
The troubles that were renewed in the fall, are thus noticed by our sub-
ject in a letter to Dr. Prendergast : "St. Catharines, Nov. 18th, 1838.
" Mt Dear Father : — * * * * You will have heard, before tMs
reaches you, various accounts ofthe reneiral cf hostilities, both in Upper and
Lower Canada. The truth is, the country is ia a bad state, inasmuch as all
business is in a manner suspended, and I fear it may remain so for a year
or two, but no person need be under any apprehension aa to .the result. The
outbreak in Lower Canada is without concert, money, material or men. In
Upper Canada an attack has been made at Johnsto^wn, below Prescott, by
two or three hundred men, who have been all killed or taken, and we have
no reason to apprehend any danger from the attacks of any brigands of this
description ; my only fear is they will embroil the nations in a war, if so, it
-will be a great evil, and the prosperity of both countries will be not only
greatly impeded, but most seriously injured.

191
" Rumor says W3 are to be invaded by some invisible foe, from the op
posite shore, that numerous meetings are held, and a large force coming
from Michigan to Lewiston, but I do not believe it.
" Believe me, affectionately yours,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
December — An item of the day, eliciting the depression of the times,
was shown in the decrease of th« population of Hamilton, then numbering
3 342 — 225 decrease.
The milling business, in which our subject was largely interested, had
now become an extensive and important branch of our manufactures, and Mr.
Merritt had already established a profitable trade in New York, where, by
the superiority of his flour, it gained a good name. This year he decided
upon still further extending his trade, and commissioned Mr. Coventry, his
clerk who was going to England, to visit his friends, to offer four thousand
barrels for sale in the Liverpool market, which sale was soon effected, and
shipments continued with varying success, up to the disposal of his mill*.
The traffic on the canal, during the summer business, showed an increase
of nearly fifty per cent, although Macaulay, the President of the Board, had,
ill his first report for the year 1837, advised the abandonment of the canal
by the Government, as he did not think it would ever prove a jjaying in
vestment. Its success this year was no doubt greatly due to the exertions
made by Mr. Merritt, who, whilst on his private business in the States, was
continually r«ino\-iug objections to, and advocating the superiority of our
route. Wheiji at home he, as before, exerted himself with tlie authorities
in power, to have as much leniency shewn as possible to the numerous mis
guided men who were now lying in the prisons, for participation in the
invasions; and we have reason to believe that his efforts in this direction
was not wholly unsuccessful, as numerous cases can testify; and banishment
was, in most cases, substituted for capital punishment. Some cases of ban
ishment of Lower Canadians to Bermuda, met with the disapproval of the
Colonial Secretary in London; and Lord Durham considering his jurisdiction
interfered with, resigned, and returned to England.
A secret society was at work in the United States, and Mr. Merritt and
his friends on the other side, desiring peace, caused them to pay too little
attention to their machinations, as the following correspondence will show.
" Government House, 24th December, 1838.
" ^a hive to 'Acknowledge the receipt of your two favours, dated 30th ult.,
and 10th inst., which came together on 11th instant ; but since that time,
the pressure of duty has been such, that I have found it impracticable to
answer them at an earlier date than the present
" I regret to observe, that you have taken the remarks contamed m my
former letter, in a sense foreign to that which was intended to be conveyed.
Owing to the fficredulity which prevailed with many good and zealous sub
jects, respecting the extent and danger of the conspiracy which had been

192
formed within the American boundary, and v,'hich they did not hesitate to
avow — the call upon the country, which the Lieutenant-Governor considered
it necessary to make, was not everywhere received in the spirit which tbe
actual crisis did most certainly require. The injury thus done wns manifest,
and had it not been for the energetic course pursued by -the Government,
might have been irreparable. I therefor do not think you could have any
ground of complaint, or of offence, if in addressing you as a gentleman of
approved loyalty and zeal, I pointed out the evil consequences of raising
doubts in the public mind respecting the necessity of the course adopted by
fhe Government. Few now remain in the country who do not admit that
the intelligence obtained by the Government respecting the plots of the Ame
rican brigands and Canadian refugees, was singularly correct, and received
at so early a period as to enable His Excellency to frustrate the plans laid
for surprising some important points on the frontier. It is to be hoped
you also have been convinced on this point by recent occuiTences.
" I have laid before Sir George Arthur both your letters, as well as
the communications you received from Mr. Starkweather of Cleveland, and
Mf. Crocker of Oswego. Those two gentlemen probably hold a place among
the more respectable of American citizens, and in ordinary times and cir
cumstances, I should not hesitate with you to attach implicit credit to their
declarations. At present, their statements are to be received with extreme
caution and jealously. Nothing need be added to my former observations
upon the letter of Mr. Starkweather. Of Mr. Crocker's, it need only be re
marked, that it contains declarations wMch no one can credit who knows
that the plots of the invading vagabonds were sent to no inhabitant of
Oswego. Mr. Crocker may perhaps not be a sworn hunter, bwt the tenour
of his letter shews that he is not unfriendly to their projects.
" All reflecting men will, like yourself, concur with His Excellency in
deprecating a war, although all may not be equally sanguine in their hopes
that the existing violent spirit within the American lines may ever be sub
dued without a national collision.
" His Excellencjr desires me to say, that he considers the views you
have expressed respecting the drafting of militia men for actual service, de
serve great attention. You can have no idea of the trouble which has "been
occasioned to Sir George Arthur by the necessity of a sudden call upon tbe
militia, for the protection ofthe Province, and the difficulty of wielding a
force hitherto so much overlooked as respects organization and discipline.
" I am now to return you the two letters you were so good as to send
for perusal : although you intimate that these are the last you will thus trans
mit, you will doubtless continue to communicate any that you may consider
useful to the Govemment. " I am, '• My dear sir, " Your's very truly,
" J. MACAULAY."
To show that this caution was not without its evils, through tbe
reports of the Governor's agents, the high rewards given to informers,
caused a great many among the oldest and most respectable famOies to be
-viewed with suspicion. Amorg these were Cob. Nellis and our subject.
The year closed with the prospect of anything but a speedy settling down

193
to peaceful pursuits. The militia were still under arms. The people were
getting used to the military profession, and the glorious tradition of their
ancestor's prowess in the last war made them, especially the young, not
averse to the conflict. The papers on both sides added to the flame, by
exaggerated reports of border outrages.
To show the injury done the Province by diverting the fur trade through
Hudson's Bay the last quarter of a century, their value was this year
£250,000, all that were required in this country had to be repurchased
from the company's stores in London.

183 9.

The Holiday's were spent with the family at home ; dining at his
father's on Christmas, a social party was held at his place New Year's day.
On the 3rd he left for Haldimand, on a visit to his constituents, and
arranging the business of the Grand River Navigation Co. There had been
no report published for four years. The principle object of the present
visit was the getting out of a statement for the next Legislature. The report
was dated 19th January, at Seneca. It was the same as the Welland
Oanal, viz : That the Government should, in failure of assistance, assume
ewnership of the whole work.
Mrs. Merritt gives some items peculiar to this time of trouble and anx
iety, in a letter to her mother, Mrs. P  , dated the 9th of January.
" At New Year's a large family party dined here, the boys were all
Iffe and animation. New Year's Eve, R — and C. A — were here, they sat
up till 2 o'clock, and took their cannon out to the street, and fired it twice,
it was heard at the further end of the village. Most persons knew what it
meant, though some were frightened. Mrs. R — told me that she thought
it was a signal that the rebels had come.
" H. got home from his tour to Brantford and Haldimand on Wednes
day evening. He says times through the country appear gloomy and dis
couraging. Some of the farmers say they don't intend to do much ; if the
fences fall down they will put them up, but will not split a rail to make
new ones. There is no emigration into the country, and still some going
out. H. says the country is ruined for years to come. We don't see it
in this quarter or any where on the lines, for in truth it's pretty well filled
up -with troops, but in the back townships, from Oxford to Maiden, and
on the River St. Lawrence. Some talk pretty strong of war with the United
States. H. is often drawing comparisons of the difference of prosperity and
improvement of the two countries.
"Govemor Arthur has just gone to Maiden to see the state of the country.
H. Bays he hopes the roads will all break up, so he may just see what roads
we have.

194
On his return from his military inspection, extending as far as Malden>
Sir George Arthur passed St. Catharines on the 22nd to the Niagara
frontier, returning the 23rd. Shortly after, Mr. Merritt addressed a series
of letters at the Governor's request, to him, on the financial affairs of the
Province. They are similar to those addressed to the High Commissioner,
Lord Durham, and consist of seven, dated from the 10th to the 18th, which
may be summaried as follows ;
" May it please your Excellency, with a hope your Excellency may-
have an opportunity of devoting a small portion of your time to the civil
affairs of the Province, which your calling of the Legislature seems to indi
cate, and in compliance with your personal request, I will devote a portion
of my time during the present week, in pointing out the prominent causes
which have produced the present unprecedented depression, and in suggest
ing for your consideration, such measures as are likely to afford the most
speedy relief.
1st. Is a resume of his financial acts in which he had been engaged as
member. 2iid. A dvocating public credit for public works. 3rd. British
trade on the St. Lawrence rivaled by Mississippi. 4th and 5th. Admitting
our grain free of duty to Great Britian. 6th and 7th. For union, and for the
right to initiate acts of trade. Closing. " My remarks are not intended to
be either personal or political, they are directed against our present system,
under which the wisdom of Solomon oould not make this a prosperous
country. W. H. M."
A few days before leaving for the Legislature, Mr. Merritt, as was his
custom, wrote down the subjects most necessary for attention during the
session. This memorandum is dated 20th February. The giving notice of
enquiring into the state of the Province, was a chief subject for Legislation.
On the 27th of February, Parliament opened, and in the Governor's
speech, reference, in a congratulatory manner, was made on the suppression
of the rebellion ; and hopes expressed that trade would again resume its
ordinary course as heretofore, in peace and harmony.
Notice was given on the first day, (24th,) for a committee of the House,
on the state of the Province, for Wednesday 28th ; and Mr. Merritt with Mr.
Robinson were appointed a committee to draft an address to his Excellency^
respecting the resignation of the Earl of Durham.
March 2nd. For Committee on Finance he got th6''most ballots. On
the 14th the Finance Committee reported, and 200j|copies ordered.
March 23i-d. Three resolutions on the state of the Province were
brought in by the committee — 1 1 to 35, for a union, and sending agents to
England. The amendment to dissolve the House was lost by 11 to 33. It
is melancholy to record that an amendment not to disenfranchise the French
Canadians of their national rights was defeated by a large'maj ority.
On the 24th it was resolved that the Eiiglish_should^be the language in
the united Legislature.
The 14th resolution was that the Speaker, Sir A. McNab and Mr. Merritt,
member for Haldimand, be commissioned to proceed to" England to repre-

195
sent the resolutions, and advocate them before the Imperial Parliament.
1000 copies ofthe Report -were printed. This report was sent to the Legis
lative Council for co-operation.
To add to the complications, the acts of sympathizers in the States taking;
part with our malcontents in Canada, was copied in the eastern section..
On the 24th of January, a military expedition from Maine had marched
into and taken possession of the disputed territory between Maine and New
Bruns-wick. This roused the war discussion once more; but the evil was
averted by forbearance, and surrendering the greater part of the tenitory in
dispute. An address had been passed in the latter part of March, reflecting on the
conduct of the aggresion of the State authorities of Maine, and was as follows:
" That this House would be alike wanting in gratitude and patriotism,
were we to hesitate to assure the gallant New Brunswicker's that, however,
we should regret a war with the United States, we nevertheless pledge
ourselves that should such a result proceed from the conduct of Maine on
this occasion, that we will support, maintain and defend the rights, &c.,
with our energies and our lives, and to inform Sir John Harvey thereof.
"A. McNAB, Speaker."
On the 1st of April a new committee was struck on the state of the
Pro-vince, particularly concerning the foreign invasion. Prince, Sherwood,
Chisholm and Robinson were members.
About the same time appeared the report of Lord Durham's administra
tion in the provinces, and this, -without the action of, or of course, appro
bation of the Imperial Parliament. The entire proceeding was against the
popularity of his lordship, and the coldness of his associates, so worked on
his sensitive nature, that passing into retirement, he shortly afterwards
sickened and died.
On the 9th of April appeared the Report of the Select Committe on
Finance, of which Mr. Merritt was chairman. It gave a most favourable
account of the increase of the revenues, now equalling one million of dollars.
They recommended that without adding any more burdens on the people, this
Sum be judiciously applied to improving our na-vigation, so as to become a
revenue to tha country, and prevent ever thereafter the imposition of more
taxes. The management of the canal appears to have been left in the same
hands, and little doing except preliminaries.
The Governor in answer to an address from the House for information
from the Colonial Office, on the subject of union, made the folio-wing reply:
" I have received no communications on the subject, except a copy of the
Report from the Earl of Durham, wMch has just reached me, and which I
readily place in your hands."
" We think it just to give the opinion of the President of the Canal,
after another year's experience on the subject of improvements, an<J, show
ing Ms extended practical and patriotic view of the 'Union.

196 " Toronto, Febuary 20th, 1839.
"' My Dear Sir : — I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of
the 18th inst., and to say that I have duly laid before the Lieutenant Gov
ernor, all the papers which you have recently transmitted for His Excellen-
¦<;y's consideration, and which I shall endeavor at my flrst leisure moments
to obtain an opportunity of reading.
" We agree generally, with respect to the importance of improving the
many gi-eat advantages of our country, and the necessity of promoting the
increase of our trade and intercourse with the Mother Country, and with
foreign states. On all these points, too, I derive great profit from the infor
mation which you are continually accumumulating.
"My remedy is to add to Upper Canada all of the lower pi'ovince, except
the north bank of the S. Lawrence, from Argenteuil, eastward, and the
Districts of Quebec and Gaspe, which are alien in almost every respect to
•us. We should then have a noble Upper Province, and a seaport, and if
we could not then manage our own affairs under a discreet metropolitan
¦supervision, wa should, in some measure deserve the anarchy that would be
in store for us. " " Yours faithfully,
" J. MACAULAY."
The following shows an important act, being a tardy remuneration by
the Legislature for a public enterprise :
Circular to the original Shareholders in the Welland Canal Co.
Toronto, U. C, 6th May, 1839.
Sir: — My object in making this communication is to prevent the
original shareholders from disposing of their Stock under its true value.
An act has this day passed the Commons House of Assembly by a very
l-arge majority, authorizing the Government to purchase out the private
shareholders in the Welland Ca.nal, and there is no reason to suppose it will
not meet the concuirence of the the other branches of the Legislature
authorizing the Goverment to purchase. The terms are as follows :
"1st. The Provincial Government is authorized to issue debentures in the
«isual manner, payable in twenty years, for the amount of stock held by each
individual, bearing interest at 2 per cent, for the first year, 3 per cent, for
the second year, and so on thereafter.
" It further provides, that so soon as the sum of £30,000 per rnnum is
received from tolls, each shareholder shall be entitled to receive the amount
of their back interest, since the dates of their respective subscriptions were
pa-Id in — the interest on these debentures is secured by the income to be
derived from the work.
" I cannot refrain from expressing the gratification I feel in being en
abled to announce to the original subscribers, that they will ultimately be
paid principle and interest on their investment, in a work, which for mag
nitude and utility, cannot be surpassed on the continent of America,^ and
for the construction of which the public is indebted to their early enterprise.
" I have the honor to be, Sir,
" Your obedient servant,
" W. H. MERRITT."
A change had occurred inimical to the decision of the House, regard-
isig the delegates to England. The upper House had returned the bill, sub-
.stituting J. B. Robertson for Mr. Merritt. A discussion arose in the House

197
on its reconsideration. Neither Mr. Merritt, Robertson, or Sir Allan ha(i
the opportunity oi. representing the wishes of their country to the British-
people, before the Imperial Parliament. The following correspondence and
article from the St. Catharines Journal, will tend to explain the circum
stances of this change, not altogether indicative of the very consistent views
of some of the members of the House.
"TVIr. Merritt, as he himself asserts, was never a party man, yet we
ourselves, were under the impression that prior, and at the commencment
of his Legislative course, he was somewhat too strongly tinctured with
principles at variance with the peace, prosperity and good government of
this colony, — we mean Toryism — although we were, and still are unable.
to name a solitary public or private act, that could justify such a suspicion.
It must have arisen from his connection with, and support of, the
Episcopal Church in this place. We have watched his proceedings in the
Legislature, and have ever found him the constant advocate of measures
wMch he himself considered of beneficial importance to the Government,
and the unflinching and independent suppressor of all such as had a con
trary tendency.
" Happily for the peace of the Govemment, Lord Durham's mission to
Canada has formed a r-allying point, around which are assembled those
who embraced the interests embodied in the Report, and resolutely deter
mined to enforce its adoption, and by having a responsible government,
-with constitutional principles relieve the Province from impending ruin.
" Nothing more conclusively shows the narrow, envious and spiteful
character of the Hagerman clique, than their spiteful conduct, in relation to
sending a commission to England, It is well known that Mr. Merritt and the
Speaker were appointed by the House to this important mission, to which
the Legislative Council refused to assent ; but, by way of amendment to the
Assembly's bill, they struck out the name of Mr. Merritt, and on their part
added the name of Mr. Robertson, now in England, and return t he bill to
the House for their adoption, who on this occasion very justly asserted
their dignity, and for the insult offered them, in the person of Mr. Merritt''
literally kicked out the bill altogether.
" Such has been, and such will be, the thanks which every one may
expect who pursues such an independent course."
Mrs. Merritt notices why the Commissioners were not sent :
" H — came over on the 20tli of April for a short time, and gave as a
reason for not sending commissioners, that the Government for the colonies
were to be settled in the Bi-itish Parliament about Easter, and they could
not arrive in time to be of any use."
His son William in the same epistle, refers it more directly to the report.
" Since the arrival of Lord Durham's report Pa will not go to England,
as that corresponds so much with their views and wishes."
" Government House, Toronto, 4th May, 1839.
" My Dear Sir : — With reference to a recant conversation at the
Private Secretary's office, between a member of the House of Assenibly and
a gentleman provisionally in the service of the Govemment, which has?,
unfortunately, become a matter of notoriety, and in which your name was

198
particulaiiy introduced. I assure you that I have not heard of it without a
degree of regret, which has been considerably lightened by a consideration of
the place where it happened to occur.
" I have the honor to be, my dear sii-,
" Yours very faithfully.
To Wm. H. Merritt, Esq. " GEO. W. ARTHUR."
"Rowsell's, Monday morning, Toronto, May 6th, 18^9.
" My Dear Sir : — I have been informed that a remark I made in the
course of private conversation, with reference to your having been sent as
an agent to England, has been brought forward, with much aggravation
and in a most unaccountable manner, within the walls of the House of
Assembly. I therefore deem it due to myself to let you really know what
I did say ; and, when I have briefly done so, I think you will agi-ee with
me in saying that tha freedom of speech, in a British Legislature, was never
more arbitrarily and unjustly exercised than when it was used, on the
occasion to which I allude, for the purpose of blasting my prospects in
public life.
" While talking one day, at the Government Office, -with Colonel Chis
holm, the member for Halton, T believe I remarked to him — (I say believe,
because I have no distinct recollection of so trifling and casual a matter)
that you were not a fit person to represent the British inhabitants of Upper
Canada, in any mission to England, because you were so American and
Democratic in your opinions. These might not have been the precise words,
but such, I am sure, must have been their exact tendency, for such is the
opinion I have ever entertained of you in your political character.
"After the personal kindness I have experienced at your hands, I deeply
regret that any fair remand of mine — which obviously was never meant to
be repeated to you, and which, according to the rules of society, never ought
to have been conveyed to you — should have been magnified into such a
grave and ridiculous importance, or, if such has been the case, should have
caused you a moment's annoyance.
" As a public man, you will readily concede that you are public proper
ty. You have long been prominently before the public, and whenever I
have joined in any conversation, of which you were the subject for the
moment, I have never failed, while remarking on what I conceived to be
your Democratic bias on politics, to render my humble testimony to your
domestic worth, your charity, and your household virtues, and to your
practical loyalty as exhibited during the last war.
"Believe me still, my dear sir,
" Yours very sincerely,
" To W. H Merritt, M. P. P. JOHN KENT."
In Mr. Menitt's speech, on the last day of the session, upon the discus
sion of this question,in the Canadian House, May 11th, he says, in advo
cacy of the views embodied in Lord Durham's report :
" The plan recommended by Lord Durham is briefly this :
" 1st. ¦ To remove the Colonial office from Downing Street, London, to
this side of the Atlantic — to transfer the power now vested in the Colo
nial Minister to the Govemor. 2. The Governor to represent sovereignty,
to bear the same relation to the people of Canada that the Queen does to
the people of England. 3rd. To select for his advisers men at the head of

199
our Provincial Department. 4th. To retain their places no longer than
tbey are supported by the Legislature.
" This is no Republican or elective institution. Here is no upsetting
the foundations of society among us ; there is no turning men out of office,
from one end of the country to the other, irrespective of the manner in which
they discharge their duties ; here is the simple application of the tried
principles of the British Constitution in a British Province ; intelligent,
patriotic and loyal, and worthy of all the civil rights, as they possess the
intellectual and moral attributes of Britons.
"The only objection, that any but a Republican and Democrat can
argue against it is, that it would render this Province independent."
He also argues that the personelle of the Ministry would be a matter of
indifference to Britain, and it wo»ld ensure men of the first ability in the
country, and would remove all distinction of origin. The Governor stands
bone fide as the representative of Royalty — the sacred emblem of power,
the supreme administrator of the laws, and he will be placed also above
tbe order of the Imperial Minister.
" 3rd. Lord Durham's remedy will remove all danger of separation, and
will be an effectual prevention against the introduction of Democratic or
Republican principles among the inhabitants. Give us the full benefits
of the British Constitution and we will become the admiration and envy
of the United States, and retain what they do not possess — a strong execu
tive government.
" But I will at all times adhere to those measures that will secure the
peace, and promote the prosperity of Upper Canada."
The desertion Mr. Merritt had experienced from his friends, worked
upon his feelings. There was a field of honorable distinction open, and in
which he had evidently set his mind, for by being made a representative
to England, right or wrong, concieved that he would be of great benefit to
his country, and he had the unpleasantness to experience that while engaged
in the material improvement of the country, he got their support ; but when
attempting to raise himself out of the party role they had placed him in,
trying to advance himself and his countrymen politically, by representing
them at the British Court, he felt by this act, that it was their opinion " he
had better stay at home."
His first object on returning was to get clear of the entanglement of
private business. He intimates this late in June, in one of his familiar let
ters to his father-in-law, and that he will perpetuate his views by bringing
up one of his sons thereto.
" It is my intention to get out of active business. William H. Menitt,
¦ Jr., I trust will at least make a statesman."
For this purpose, and partly to advance- his political scheme, he visits
the Lower Province,
He was accompanied by the son alluded to, whom, on reaehing Albany
on their return, he gave introductions to visit his friends at Byrom, near

200
New York. This was partly a reward for studious conduct, and a prepa
ration for the serious study of the law, for which he had passed, according
to the Chancellor, the best examination.
On his return he completed his arrangements of leasing the mills ; and
the foUo-wing advertisement appeared in the August number of the Journal:
"All business in connection with the Welland Canal Mills will hereafter
be conducted by J. Mittleberger k Co. Signed, W. H. Merritt."
The first use he made of his leisure was to address a letter on public
affairs to Mr. Nelson, member of the Executive Committee, in Lower Canada.
It appears in the Journal of the 15th, and is prefaced by a paragraph from
the Toronto Examiner: a
" The admirable speech delivered by Mr. Merritt in favor of Responsi
ble Government has been copied into several of the Lower Canadian jour
nals, and has been re-viewed at considerable length in the Quebec Gazette.'''
Mr. Nelson accuses Mr. Merritt of asking the Government of Britain to
wive millions for improvements, and in defence of the country, to a body
against whom they would have no security. Mr. Merritt controverts that
by the example of the two public works.
" The management of the Rideau Canal is under some power of England,
to whom those in charge here are responsible. The Welland has been un
der the direction of those interested in the Province, the result, the people
of Upper Canada for the one have to pay an advance of from 50 to 100
per cent, from Kingston to Montreal; while on the other, the freight frdm
Detroit to Kingston is only what it was from Chippawa to Queenston, in
old times."
With regard to the formation of a House of Lords, for which the Coun
cillor accuses Canada of having no adequate material, he says, " We possess
" men of equal intelligence and wealth, compared to the population and
" wealth of the country, and to those with whom they have to come in con-
" tact, as the people of England, compared to the population and wealth of
" that kingdom, and to the individuals with whom they have to come in
" contact." The Canadas take six million dollars of British manufactures — half of
which is paid by English expenditure in this country — and closes by re
marking : "We require an equal or greater concentration of power than the
union of England, Scotland, Ireland have produced — like the State of
New York — that we may utilize the advantages of our position."
The evil of the unquiet and uncertain state of the country was still
going on, for, in the Jowrwi? of 11th July we read: — "Emigration from
Upper Canada to the Western States is going on very rapidly." A corres
pondent in the London District writes, " that nearly half the population of
that district intend emigrating. The Toronto Examiner is of opinion that
the Upper Province will lose one-fifth of its population by emigration to the
Western States.

201
Public meetings were now being held in various parts of the country;
gome, as in Brock-ville, -^trere the occasion of a riot. The following letter
relates to an important meeting held in Hamilton : —
" Your views respecting committees, addres.«eR, and union of Reformers,
coincide entirely with our own ; and we are busy organizing local commit
tees. I beg you to understand I should have avoided calling together public
meetings had the choice rested -with me, but the Reformers are at present
a straggling flock, and act without concert. I should be glad to hear that
you have determined upon a snug meeting in Toronto of a few of the lead
ing Reformers of the Province, men of influence and character, who should
determine on a plan for the guidance of the districts.
" E. Cartwright Thomas."
In September, a large and influential meeting was held at Niagara, the
County town, and still the most important place in the district, to take into
consideration the state of the country, and Lord Durham's report thereon.
Mr. Merritt prepared a resolution (which he introduced by a speech) "That
this meeting fully concur in the union, and a government according to the
model of Great Britain." Passed unanimouslj'-.
This initiation of the new reform in the old borough, was carried on by
circular. Similar mteetings were held in other sections.
Some of the coadjutors for the work of reconstructing their country is
indicated in the following list of correspondents : — July 15. — E. Cartwright,
Thomas, Hamilton. Aug. 10,— Peter Perry, Whitby. 12— -Hon. D Fer-
gusson, Woodhill, Nelson. 24. — A. Manahan, Montreal. G. H. Detlor,
Brighton. 27th.— J. H. Boulton. 28th.— Francis Hincks. 23d.— Thos.
McKay. October 1 9. — A. D. Robling, Napanee. Richarsdon, Sandwich.
G. Tiffany, Hamilton. Nov. 18.— J. W. Powell, Townsend. Nov. 5.—
Attoi'ney General Spence. August 12. — 0. R. Gowan. Aug. 27th. — J.
Lockhart, Niagara. Sept. 12. — Cooper, Rainham. Sept. 4th, — Dr. Jarold,
Dunnville. 30. — D. Thorbum, Queenston. Joseph Clarke, Haldimand.
Mr. Menitt, just before the meeting of Parliament, delivered his views
to his constituents at a public meeting of the freeholders at Rainham. A
letter from one of them, an Orangeman, gives his views and that of his fel
lows on the great question of the day: —
" I am a Briton, and consequently dissent from the sentiment expressed
m your speech. We want, my friends, a total change in the laws of the Pro-
vmce. We require the choosing of our own rulers, and to get rid of for
eign thraldom, and this shall before long be the case, and must be the case."
On Lord Durham's departure, the report he had made on the country,
was so agi-eeable to the ¦views of the respectable portion of the people, that
after a year of administration by Sir John Colbome, further delay
was considered impolitic ; and a member of the Imperial Ministry, Sir P.
Thompson, was sent to carry them out.

202
On the 19tli of October appeared the proclamation of the new Governor-
General, Hon. P. Thompson. He arrived at Toronto on the 20th o( Nov.
Mr. Merritt, previous to the opening of the House, went over and visited
the Governor.
3rd of December. — House met.
Steam communication -with the colony was promised in the Governor's
speech, together with abstract of reforms.
The character of the new Governor is given in " Sketche.= of the 13tb
Parliament," by Erinensis, a fellow countiymen, said to be the J. Kent
noticed in Sir George Arthur's employment :
" The Right Hon. C. P. Thompson, Governor General of the North
American Provinces, had long been an enemy to the Canadian timber
trade, and an advocate for those measures which the great body of the peo
ple repudiate. He was considered one of the most thorough-going Radicals
in the Cabinet — a man of grea,t finesse, and a true reader of character. As
a commercial financier he stands almost unrivalled. It was thought that be
might prove the most proper person to win from the Canadians an expres
sion of confidence, and he has proved himself well calculated for the task.
In his personal address he is mild and affable, ready of approach and free of
conversation. Opposed to his line of politics, and convinced that his mission
to Canada -will be productive of no good, if not of absolute evil, I must give
him the talent of consummate management ; ha has hitherto succeeded so
as to carry all his measures, and it is most unaccountable by what almost
magic influence he cajoled some members inta a desertion of previously en
tertained opinions." '
The author, then attending his studies in the Provincial Capitol, who
had come over with the members, wrote home Ms observations on the new
Govemor : —
" Saw the House opened ; it was quite a grand affair, fllled with ladies
and gentlemen. Governor 'Thompson, a man of slight stature, in a blue
dress coat, breast and skirt covered with gold lace, was surrounded by his
suite, which, with Sir- George Arthur, Lieutenant Governor's suite, made
an imposing spectacle. The Govemor read his speech in a vei-y affected
cockney tone."
"A despatch from Lord John Russell, which was in the papers a few
days ago, made a practical commencement of the new system of Responsi
ble Government. The peroration of the despatch is as follows :
'The Queen's Government have no desire to thwart the representative
assemblies of British North America in their measures of reform and im
provement. They have no wish to make those provinces the resource for
patronage at homa. They are earnestly intent on giving to the talent aad
character of leading per.<ons in the colonies, advantages similar to those
which talent and character, employed in the public service of the UMted
Kingdom, obtain. '
The Toronto Guardian of 18th December remarks : — "Almost the only
" topic of discussion in Parliament tha last eight days, and the principal
''topic of general conversation has been the union of the Provinces. The

203
"position of the parties is novel and sometimes amusing. Messrs. Merritt,
"Aickman, Robinson, Pa,rk, <fec,, headed by the Solicitor-General for the
" Government party, and Messrs. G. S. Boulton, Rattan, Murney, Gamble,
" Cartwright, kc, in opposition — the latter making attacks on the Gover-
"nor, and some of them talking strongly of separation." He adds, " that
" for tyros this first assaUment of Responsible Govemment in the House
" may be considered satisfactory."
Says the St. Catharines Journal: — " Mr. Menitt made one of his best
"speeches — advocating the union of the Provinces ; that it would add
"1,000,000 British to the population at once, and thus make the reforms
"that were advocated, possible, by such an accession of the Anglo-Saxon
" element in the Assembly.''
An interruption to the general direction of legislation was attemjited by
tbe introduction of the measures of the sympathizers into the House, but
which acted only as an amusing diversion to mcfre important debates.
On the 10th of December, Mr. Boulton brought in a bill to disqualify
certain persons from being candidates, or voting at elections. Mr. Merritt
considering the imputation it inferred, as questioning the loyalty of the
people, moved to give it the six months hoist. Mr. Cartwright said there
were lodges in several districts. It was sworn before him that there was
one in St. Catharines. Mr. Parks, — " There are none in the London dis
trict." Mr. Cartwright believed there were more there than any other dis
trict in the country. Information was received by the Govemment last
night that an attack was to be made on the Niagara District. Thomas H.
was the head of the lodge in St. Catharines. Mr. Merritt denied that any
lodge could exist in St. Catharines. Mr. Sherwood replied as having heard
unler oath that the Hunters possessed a written statement over his signa
ture : — •" As soon as you convince me you are strong enough to effect any
thing in Upper Canada, I will take command of you." Mr. M. said it was
wholly untrue. [Loud cries of Hear, hear, fi-om all parts of the House.]
He had received no such communication or proposition either verbally, by
writing, by signs, or in any other way or shape whatever, consequently he
could have returned no such answer.
The Journal in an article of over a column on this debate says : — "Early
" in the past season the Church and Star began to foretell invasions, and to
" promulgate that the Durhamites were in league with the ' Patriots ' to
" overthrow the Govemment. They next proclaimed that Hunter's lodges
" were being established in various districts of the Province, and that the
" various meetings held there were in aid of the ' Patriot' cause ; one of
" them, the Star, stated ' on correct information,' that overtures had been
" made to Mr. Merritt, to take command of the brigands in their next in-
" vasion. What answer did he give them 1 If Mr. Merritt is guiRy of
'' the charges preferred against him, let him be not only expelled, but put

204
" upon his trial for treason ; and if he is innocent, let the guilt rest where
" it should, upon his accusers."
We have ngticed the measures of our subject to avoid prosecutions m
his own district, and to have mitigated the sentences of his fellow-country
men deluded into overt acts of rebellion. Among the 885 persons who
underwent trial, imprisonment, execution and banishment, whose fate drove
tens of thousands from their native soil, was Benjamin Wait, living
now in one of the Western States ; he was banished to "Van Dieman's Land.
His heroic ydie, now numbered with the dead, determined on leaving ber
residence in Lockport, and imploring his release at the foot of the tMone.
In Wait's narrative, page 273, we find the following:
" Here I left my dear child, and commenced operations by collecting,
among my husband's acquaintances, certificates of his former good character.
I went to Haldimand, where we had last resided, and obtained a great
number of most respectable testimonials, which were ratified by the signa
ture of Wm. H. Merritt, Esq., the worthy and distinguished member of
Parliament for that constituency, who seemed not a little astonished that I
should have conceived the idea of going to England, considering the circum
stances in which I was placed, though he readily and most kindly gave me
letters of introduction and recommendation to official characters in England,
with one to Richard Irvin, Esq., of this city, containing, as I afterwards
learned to my advantage, a check on that gentleman for twenty dollars,
which was most gratefully accepted, and will, with Mr. Merritt's cones-
ponding kindness, be remembered with that deep sense of gi-atitude so emi
nently due."
" Sir John Franklin, the Govemor of Van Dieman's Land, has spoken
to me, (one of the prisoners,) of having received commumcations from Wm.
H. Merritt, Esq., and has written him, in reply, that he would grant me
every indulgence, consistent with his duty, as Govemor. I certainly feel
thankful to him, but more so to Mr. Merritt, to whom I beg you will ten
der the best wishes of a sincerely grateful heart."
In the House Mr. Merritt had drawn up a series of resolutions on tbe
state of the country, for transmission to England; and himself and Sir Allan
McNab were deputed to lay the same before the Imperial Government.
But before this was consummated, the appointment of a new Governor (Hon.
P. Thompson) had occurred, who came fully empowered to bring about tbe
much needed reformation. In a volumnious correspondence, he gave his
experience on the ]jolitical state of the country, and its commercial relations
as a colony. A brief summary of his views may here be stated. They may
be seen in one important particular to differ from the Govemor, his prede
cessor, and the Imperial Ministry who sent them ; namely, in the race, na
tion or people who were to hold office to carry out Responsible Govern
ment ; and, as a natural consequence, in whose interests the Government
should be carried out. In the one instance it was natives of the country,
or those unequivocally identified therewith. With the Imperial party,
officers who would advocate primarily the interests of Great Britain.

205
" Instead of having measures emanate from the Home Government, who
necessarily know but little of the British- American people, such measures
should be initiated here, by the intelligent portion of the community, and
then submitted to the Govemment for concunence. *•»-«¦ They all
should be united under one Government. * =i= =i= Should this not be
practicable from the many cojiflicting treaty claims and interests in Lower
Canada 1 Montreal should be at once annexed to Upper Canada, in order
that that Province might have a sea-port under their own control.
In Sir Robert Peel's speech on Canadian affairs, June 5 :
"They (the British Government) had but one object in view. They
did not wish to make the government of the Provinces the means of obtain-
inf any paltry pecuniary advantages, and they might say to the Canadians,
we mean to make you a British Colony, and subject to our Dominion, (hear-
bear) but we -will take care of this, that we will not make ourselves respon
sible to defend you from foreign enemies, and then allow us to be constantly
threatened and opposed by yoii.
The lengthy and exhaustive report of 350 pages, on (Janadian affairs,
commences by observations on Lower Canada, but extends to all the Pro
vinces, and says: "The real struggle is not one of principle, but of races.
Tbe report is intelligible, while the 'distinction is between French and En
ghsh, but between English and American it is certainly confounded, and
with considerable difficulty we can come at Plis Lordship's real views. It
is hoped we do him no injustice in saying that for English he means Euro
pean born, and not the English speaking people of the Provinces.
Earl Durham in the pamphlet of his report, recommends the necessity
of adjusting the constitutional questions in the North American Provinces.
"I needed no personal observations to convince me there were evils. I
found in all these a form of government nearly the same, and interests,
feelings, and habits, in common. The North American Provinces already
contained one and a half million people, besides the vast population these fer
tile lands are destined to support."
Oblivious that this population were here from attachment to the British
cause, and entitled to the security and the enjoyment of it for their families,
he changes the obligation.
"The country which has founded and maintained these colonies, may
justly expect its compensation in turning their unappropriated resources to
tbe account of its redundant population, they are the rightful patrimony of
tbe English people;" and going on to show the policy of getting new set
tlers :—" These advantages may yet be secured to your Majesty's subjects,
and a connection secured by the link of kindred origin, and may continue
to bind to the British Empire the ample tenitories of its North American
Provinces, and the large and flourishing population by which they will be
assuredly fllled. "
"If I should have miscalculated the proportion in which the friends and
enemies of British connection may meet in the united Legislature one year
of emigration would redress the balance." It would have to be greater
tban any that has taken place yet, as not a third of European birth sat
in the last Upper Canada Legislature.

206
" It is by a sound system of colonization, that we can render these ex
tensive regions available for the beneflt of the British people.
"I entertain no doubt as to the nMional character, it must be that ofth
British Empire, that which must be predominant over the whole North
American continent.
" The predominant feeling of the English wp-s that of devoted attachment
to the Mother Country.
" The pretentions of the French Canadians to the exclusive possession of
Lower Canada, would debar a yet larger population of Upper Canada and
the townships from access to the ocean."
" The experiment of keeping colonies, and governing them well ought at
least to have a trial, ere we abandon forever the vast dominion, which might
supply the wants of our surplus population, and raise up millions of fresh
consumers for our manufactures, and producers of a supply for our wants.
Recommending the municipal institutions to this end, he says :
" The true principle of limiting popular power, is that of apportionment
of it in many different depositories, and greatly multiplying the number of
mumcipal bodies."
We will close with the extract, which is alike applicable to British
North America.
" The amazing prosperity of the United States, is o-wing to the un
limited supply of fertile land, which maintains succeeding generations in
an undiminished affluence of fertile soil."
With regard to the premature publication of Lord Durham's Report,
subsequent events have proved it to have been injurious in the Provinces.
Hasty legislation might have been calculated, from its uMversal results
elsewhere, to have baen injurious. In this case, the position of the country,
-with a subdued nationality, were of such a delicate nature, that extraordinary
attention should have been taken, so that no feelings of reprisal, founded on
national antagomsm, might mar the work of our future union. But tbe
enthusiasm of the people here, on the publication of the report, sho-wing
the way of immediately getting out of their difficulties, prevented them al
lowing the time that was necessary for maturing the contemplated uMon of
Upper and Lower Canada, and throwing away the consummation ofthe plan
contemplated at home, by altering the map of Canada, so as to annex tbe
Island of Montreal, and make the St. Lawrence to its mouth, the boundary
between the Canadas, so that a union of all the British-speaking people
of the Provinces might hereafter be effected without altering their auton
omy. That his view was opposed to the advancement of the country oculd
not for a moment be domed by the loyal natives of British origin, whatever
justice there might have been in it towards the French. The impolicy of
this distinction is proved by concurring events. There was then, as n cw
majority of native inhabitants in the country, and in Upper Canada our m
crease was doubling in ten years. By our last census the rate of increase is

207
only doubling in sixty years. The rate of our neighbors' increase is doubling
every twenty-five years, therefore the security from our encroaching neigh
bor is every year more jeopordized.
The author was in the House on the Saturday of the flrst week of the
session, when the Governor's despatch, which contained a ministerial prc-
grapame, was brought down. It was e-vident the members had to deal with
subjects with which they had hitherto been unacquainted.
" 13th Dec. — Last evening attended a very animated debate on the
Union ; will continue perhaps a week ; and it may be the last question
before the present House, as there is talk of a dissolution. This was the
threat, held over the House, if they refused to pass the reforms proposed
by the Ministry.
We give our subject's opinion of the new Governor :
"Dear C. — I am much pleased with the Governor General; I think
bim a statesman. Have dined with him twice ; no meat or vegetables —
all carried round ; dessert the same ; -wine carried rojund a few times, when
all retired to drawing-room, where he had something to say to each one
present." The St. Catharines party, the Messrs. Boomer included, returned in
an open wagon, the ground being well frozen, and all spent the holidays with
tbe usual fellowship and good feeling.

1840.
The last session of the last Parliament for Upper Canada, closed on
February 10th, and very little work had been accomplished, owing partly
to, the fact ofthe important constitutional changes likely to occur, and also
to the unsettled state of affairs generally.
With regard to the surrender of the Constitution of Upper and Lower
Canada, required by the Imperial Government previous to passing the Act
ofthe union ofthe Provinces, in 1840, it is an error to say there was any
thing in it of the nature of a compact or treaty between the Canadians and
British. The right of the French Canadians to have any voice was denied, and
the semblance of a treaty was only affoffded to English Canadians; and
what was the equivalent offered themi for surrendering the power of the
purse ] The casual and territorial revenue, which one would think,
viewing the sacrifices Britain had made elsewhere for a national object, she
would readUy have granted to a country that had made so beneficial a diver
sion for the revenue of the St. Lawrence, wMch was to pay for the improve
ment thereof.

208
There appeared then, as now, a nervousness with men in power of ac
knowledging that there were any except the late emigrants, who were not
rebels to Britain in tho two Canadas.
Sir F. B. Head, in a narrative opposed to the aspersions in Lord Dur
ham's Report of the loyal Canadians, appears not to have a correct idea of
our people, or his view was distorted by patriotism, and says, " that our
¦" interests are to be subservient to the British empire, of which this colony
'" is but an atom."
If the late House had refused to take the grave responsibility, allowed
a convention to be called, or even a new election, which, happening just
after the Durham meetings, the electors were sufficiently enlightened, there,
would have been respect for the act; but for a Conservative House remain
ing over an extra term, to barter the only safeguard to the liberty of their
country, is one which leaves their conduct open to the imputation of subser
viency, self-interest or inattention.
Our subject returned immediately after the holidays, and gave atten
tion to the messages of the Governor sent down to the House from time
to time, meant to mature a bill for the Imperial Legislature. He also
wrote extensively to the Govemor General, giving him his views on thej)lan
for a Provincial Government, but to which his secretary, Mr. Murdock
sent a brief reply, sayifag that he had read them.
While thus engaged, a word of encouragement is received from the sea
board, showing that one hope actuated all loyal Americans, however distant
their abode. " Halifax, N. S., Jan. 9, 1840.
*' Dear Sir : —
¦' Permit me to addre.^s you as a member ofthe great party who, with these
Colonies, are laboring to introduce the sound principles ofthe British Consti
tution ; and you may feel assured we feel a deep sympathy in the success of
your exertions. Your obedient servant, "GEO.'N. YOUNG."
The Act making the salaries of the judiciary independent of the people, any
more than that of the Executive, had not yet been enacted , and Mr. Merritt
congratulated Mr. B. on the promotion of a fellow countryman into the office
of Solicitor General. " Toronto, 3rd March, 1840.
" Dear Sir :—
" The receipt of your letter ofthe 27th ult. has afforded me mflch satis
faction, as conveying the assurance which I understand it to do, that under
the peculiar circumstances in which I was placed I had done right in accepting
office from the Governor General.
" It is, as you say, most important to have in the new Parliament men
devoted to this great principle, and resolved to carry it out with modera tion
and firmness. The other elections will, as you remark, require to be attended
to as early as possible, after the division of counties is known.
" I remain yours, &c., ROBT. BALDWIN "

209
In the midst of his most engaging public duties, the advancement of
tis family was never lost sight of, if considering the role of statesman in
tended for him, W. H. M., Jr., this was combining both. The inten
tion is exemplified in his familiar letters :"Toronto, 12th January, 1840.
" My Dear Son : — It is my intention to have a consultation with Mr.,
Boulton this week respecting your coming over. Mr. McKyes thinks you
had better remain where you are, and conflne yourself to reading for a year
or two — but will not object. Much depends with yourself. Your future
success can only be ensured by diligence and attention. As regards the
last, may I enquire whether you ever thought of sending me a copy of
the letters I marked in the letter book and left on the side boards, relating
to the Welland Canal — and which you were to have sent the Wednesday
after I left you. I also expected a description of your ball from Thomas,
and of the theatres from you, but writing appears a serious task to you
all. There is very little before the House, and I don't think anything of
consequence will pass the Legislature this season, except the Union.
"Truly affectiqnate father,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
"Mr. William Hamilton Merritt, Jumor.'-'
"Toronto, 12th January, 1840.
" My Dear Catherine — -The Clergy Reserve question is now under
discussion, and when disposed of we will soon be dismissed. We have had
ameeting of the board of directors of the Grand River Navigation Com
pany, and am in hopes of procuring money to finish that work. After tMs
is done, my present intention is not to interfere with any further public im
provement. Mr. Bethune preached to-day in the Cathedral. It is a
splendid church, but altogether too large. Remember me to all friends,
and believe me, as ever, " Your affectionate husband,
"W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
Our subject sometimes absented himself from the House for more con
centration of thought. The author -visited Mm while thus occupied. He
was busily engaged drawing up the St. 'Lawrence Canal report, having gone
home to his lodging for more quiet.
A memoir, copied from a statistical report, notices our dependence for
supplies, as most of our trade was with England. The value of British
manufactures consumed in the year before the rebellion in British North
America exceeded that ofthe exportations to all Europe, being 31s. 6d. per
head — nearly double the rata of that to the United States — carried in
1,273 British vessels ; 75 only being by others.
Returned home, being now relieved from legislative duties till again
called upon to resume them by the voice of the people in another election,
Mr. Merritt's journal of March 4th shows how watchful and attentive
he was of the progress of his country towards liberty, and of the pro
ceedings of those in authority ;

210
'¦ Mr, Young wrote on resolutions 3d February, saying Sir Colin Camp
bell, the Governor, acted on the despatch of Slst August: 'I shall be glad
to Isarn that you have thought it expedient to give seats in it to some of
the leading men in the Assembl}'.' Contrast this (the memorandum adds)
with the dispatch cf IGth October, and who can doubt tbe decision of tbe
Horae Government, IMs tests the point ; we will see if it is to be con
ceded." " Halifax, February, 1840.
" Dear Sir — I addressed j'ou a few weeks ago calling your attention
to the series of letters then appearing m the Halifax Novascotian upon re-
pcnsible Government and the benefit of a Federal Union. Our House have
last week discussed at large the Constitutional principle of " Responsibility,"'
and have passed a seiies of resolutions declaring their want of confidence
in the present Executive Council of tho Province. They waited on Mon
day last in a body on His Excellency with these resolutions, and I refer
you to the Novascotian of this date for the debates and proceedings.
" In my last letter several of my friends here think I have related a dis
tinction which relieves the question of responsibility of much practical
difficulty. ' " Yours very trulv,
" GEO. N. YOUNG,"
"Toronto, 3d March, 1840,
" Dear Sir — The receipt of your letter of the 27th ultimo has afforded
me much satisfaction, as oonveying the assurance which I understand it to
do, that under the j)eculiar circumstances in which I was placed I had done
right in accepting office from the Govemor Genei-al.
" I do most certainly adhere to the principle of the advisers of the
Grown being selected from those who possess the confidence of Parliament,
and look to it as the only means of securing the connection with the
Mother Country, to which I am sincerely attached.
" It is, as you say, most important to have in the new Parliament men
devoted to this great principle and resolved to carry it out with moderation
and firmness.
" The other elections w-ill, as you remark, require to be attended to as
early as possible after tha division of counties is known.
" I remain faithfully yours,
" ROBERT BALDWIN. '
" W. H. Merritt, Esq., M. P."
Our subject was again appointed a director on the canal, and elected
president of the same, where his energy was once more felt.
A congratulatory letter from the old president shows at a glance the
changed state of affairs : "Toronto, 11th April, 1840.
" My Dear Sir — I am truly glad that you ha-\-e been again elected tbe
President of the Canal, to which you may claim the consideration of being
its father. I expect very soon to get some tidings from London on tbe
subject of the £15,000. I wrote in February last I should not hesitate to
proceed to England, but I am only waiting the commands of the Govern
ment. I am sure it will require my presence there. I asked at the request
of the Legislature last year for permission to go to England for their benefit.

211
but I was told that when His Excellency saw tha necessity, he would sand
me. I think after this that I co-.ild not ask leave, b-at wait for orders,
' which I am raady and willing to obey. "Yours very truly,
" JOHN H. DUNN."
Soma of the new ofliaers ware afraid of un lertaking too much :
"Crown Lands Office, 15tli April, 1840.
"My Dear Sir — I am in receipt of your private note of the 13th
instant. You must be aware that however I may disagree with you
respecting other great improvements, I am a most ardent well-wisher to the
Welland. I am obliged to you for your note, and will attend to its con
tents, so far as I have power and opportunity. " Yo-ars most truly,
" R. W. SULLIVAN.
" W. H. Merritt, Esq., St. Catharines."
With regard to Mr. Wilson's dismissal from the Welland Cmal, the
Journal of 23d April says :
" What is his offence % He voted for Mr. Merritt instead of Mr. Mc
Cauley." It then gives a retrospective glance over this transaction :
" Whan it was known tli.it Sir F. Head had deolinod tha re-appoiutmant
of Mr. Merritt to a situation whicli he had held so long, and to which the
public thought he was so justly entitled, our citizens assembled spontane
ously, raised funds by voluntary subscription, and sent a memorial to His
Excelleney, stating in the strongest terms the injustice done to Mr. Mer
ritt, and expressing their fears that the same energy and perseverance
which had previously baan exercised in the prosecution of this great under
taking would not continue to bo a prevailing characteristic in the operations
of those placed in charge of the work. Three years have passed away and
we are as we were."
The Governor's answer to Mr. Merritt gives another and more reliable
reason for the change. "Government House, Toronto, 24th April, 1840.
" My Dear Sir — Your letter marked " confidential," of the 24th inst.,
I received last night. Pray allow me to beg that you will dispossess your
mind of any uncomfort-able feeling of a personal n-iture as regards the ap-
point'inent of Mr. Cayley in place of Mr. Wilson. To Mr. Wilson I make
no objection beyond his well-known desire to carry on tha Works upon the
Welland (Janal upon a scale of expanse which, under the circumstances of
this country, I should consider, at present, quite improper. The whole pe
cuniary difficulties of the Province the Governor-General has taken in hand
'with a view to extricate it from its present embarrassment, and therefore I
feel it to be an obligation upon ma to keep matters as much as possible in
Uatu quo. " I have the honor to remain, my dear sir,
" Your obedient servant,
" GEO. ARTHUR."

212 "DuNDURN, April 19th, 1840.
"My Dear Merritt — Your letter of yesterday astonished me not a
little. Mr. Willson has been badly used. But the question is, what is to
Ije done — if I can do anything, I am ready and willing. Perhaps you
liad better see him on your way up, and we will consult. If the Government
Las done wrong, tbey ought to give some one of the Directors a hint to resign
and re-instate Mr. Willson. Let me know the day before you come, that
I may be at home to meet you. We will make out the ticket for the G.
it. N. Co'y. Shall I secure proxys 1
" Yours truly,
"ALLAN N. MACNAB."
The following from one of his supporters shows how our subject was es
timated in his constituency : — " Moulton, April 27th, 1840.
" Sir — I acknowledge the receipt of yours of the 28th March, also of
the St. Catliarines Journal. I have also done my best to make your sen
timents known, and I am proud to say, as far as my knowledge extends,
that I believe there will not be an opposing voice, but a unanimous call in
your favor at the next election. " I am, sir, your humble servant,
" WM. EGARS."
" Wm. Merritt Esq., M. P. P."
The first resolution of the Board, April 8, was that the President, Engi
neer and Superintendent examine the canal throughout, previous to its
openiag fbir business.
TMs investigation was followed by applications for assistance that were
Bot considered equally necessary by his conespondents.
Not waiting for these letters, Mr. Merritt went down to Quebec. On
iis way the following letter^ was written by him to Mr. Killaly, whose
fenowledge of the work and influence with the Govemor made his recom-
mejatiation of consequence : " Kingston, 13th May, 1840.
" 'M.Y Dear Sir — I will thank you to give me a letter to the Govemor-
CSeneral stating. —
" 1st. The necessity of commencing the reconstruction of pier at mouth of
Grand River, immediately, for the convenience of the canal service.
" 2(L The benefit the service would derive by constructing the lock at
Dunville large enough to admit steamers in peace as well as war — -without
it protections must be confined below the dam — as a steamer could not
make the interior. Consequences of further delay may be serious — or
attijthing further you may suggest. Truly yours,
" W. H. MERRITT." .
"Government House, Montreal, 9th May, 1840.
" Sm- — Your letter of the 23d ultimo, and the accompanying report,
liave been submitted to the Govemor General, and I am commanded by
His Excellency to say that, not being at present in the immediate admlnis-
tration of the Government of Upper Canada, he must refer you for a
moffe particular reply to your application to the Lieutenant Governor, who
is mow charged -with that duty.

213
"At the same time, as the public works of Upper Caiiada, as well as
the financial condition of that province, have engaged his recent serious
attsntion, both during his administration of tha Gsvernment there and
since. His Excellency directs me to say that he should feel great difficulty
in giving any authority for the issue of so large a sum of debenturas as
that for which you apply.
" By the terms of the Union, as proposed to Parliament, the debt of
Upper Canada is to be borne by the 'United Province, and the amount of
that debt ha» been stated, so far as it could be ascertained at the time, when
the report of the Legislature was transmitted home. To incre-ase that
debt now, except under the most absolute necessity, would, in his opinion,
be improper, and he never hesitated to declare to all who applied to him, as
well {o^ the Welland Canal as for any other public work in the province,
that svicb was his view of the case. 'That until arrangements would finalljr
be made for settling the finances, now, as you are well aware, involved
far beyond the means even of supplying the interest of the debt, these
works, however important, would not proceed, and that the only expendi
ture which he would consider justifiable under the circumstances was such
i» might be indispensable for the fulfilment of engagements, or the preven
tion of serious injury by dilapidations. ,
" In order to ascertain the extent to which this necessity might amount.
His Excellency directed a survey lo be made of various public works in
progress in the Province, but with regard to the Welland Canal he was led
to believe by the director that what was required merely to effect this
purpose would be supplied by the tolls and property at the disposal of the
canal company itself. If this should not be the case, then to that extent,
but to that extent only, would an outlay be recommended.
" Whilst His Excellency, therefore, takes a deep interest in the ulti
mate improvement of that gi-eat channel of communication, and is most
anxious to see the time when the work may proceed, he cannot depart in its
favor from the principle which he has laid down, and the justice of which
seemed to be generally admitted and felt.
" I have the honor to be, sir, vour obedient servant,
" T. W. C. MURDOCK, Chief Secretary.
"W. H. Merritt, Esq., St. Catherine's, U. C."
Government House, Toronto, 1 1th May, 1 840.
Dear Sir — I return you the report on the Welland Canal, an d as I
am not to be moved to sanction any expenditure upon any work whatever
until the existing debt of the Province is placed on a sound footing, and
additional funds provided on desirable terms, you cannot be wrong in sub
mitting, as you wish to do, the whole case to the Governor-General, to whom
I have very briefly written on the subject. Of the work itself I cannot
hesitate to repeat what I have frequently personally said to you, that I
consider it more important than any other undertaking — that I have not a
doubt it will give a most liberal return for any reasonable outlay in making
it a permanent work — to the full extent, indeed, which I reported to the
Secretary of State, £25,000, and that an increasing income — and having,
last year, examined all the locks, I am of the opinion that it is of great
consequence that no more money should be sunk in repairing the present
locks than is unavoidable in order to keep open the communication.
" I beg to remain, sir, yours very sincerely ,
" Wm. Merritt, Esq. GEO. ARTHUR ."

214
He returned on the 28th with a more successful answer to his requisi
tion for funds for the necessary improvements than these letters received
during his absence would indicate. " St. Catharines, 23d June, 1840.
" My Dear Catharine — On Monday, after you left this, I went over
to Toronto with William, and retnined the day after. The money has
been at length procured, and the board, which assembled yesterday, has
consented to proceed with the permanent work. On Friday I meet the
board at the Grand River, and take a turn through Haldimand the week
after, so that I shall be very little at home foi the coming fortnight.
" Your affectionate husband,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
In June, preparations were made for the enlargement, m.aterial col
lected, &c., under his supervision. The head office of the works was at St.
Catharines, as formerly, and the engineering staff was composed of Captain
Macaulay, R, E.; Hamilton Killaly. Assistant ; Mr. Coventiy, Clerk ; Mr.
Prescott, Secretary and Treasurer.
While apparently attending to no higher occupation than his canal af
fairs the following letters passed, showing that our subject was not forgetful
of the mere extended business in law and other reforms that would occupy
them in the future united Parliament. The publication of the act was in
daily expectation and politicians moving. " Tuesaay Morning, July 7th, 1840.
" My Dear Father — I was surprised to see that you have written so
many letters as an " LTpper Canadian," as you have been frcm Lome so
much, and the aitieles have apjieared in such quick succession. The editor
pays a tacit compliment to the importance of theii- contents l)y occupying
so much of his editorial in contradicting their statements, as the editors
scarcely ever make long comments on coiumunications frcm anonymous cor
respondents, if they notice them at all. Mr. La Fontaine is now in Toionto,
the I'atriot says, canvassing for tbe speaker's tLair in the United Assembly,
and abuses him most unmercifully. Tie laccs will ccn;mence to-morrow.
I shall endeavor to go one day, as tLeie aie seme of the fastest horses from
Canada and the States. I have finished Chitty's pleading, and will read
next Tidd's j)ractice. Have just commenced to read the historv of France
in P rench, and as Mr. DelaHaye has the Code de Napoleon in French, also
I think I will read it, as ycu have always appeared anxious to beecme ac
quainted with this system of law s.
"Your affectionate and dutiful son,
" W. H. MERRITT."
" St. Catharines, July 9th, 1840.
"My Dear Son — He editor of tbe Montreal Gazette does not under
stand the subject, and ccntc nts himself with assertions and misrepresenta
tions. However the o'oject must be attained, the improvement of so noble
a river cannot remain neglected much longer. I am happy to find you re
verting to your studies, and shall be glad to hear you mention from time
to time the books which have last occupied your attention. Chitty's

215
pleadings and Tidd's practice is a commencement, and the History of France
and tke Code Napoleon will prove interesting. I have teen anxious to
find the code on civil law pointing out the method of collecting small debts,
with costs, etc. I have seen the general maxims or jrinciples on -w-Lich the
code is founded. I wish ycu would send me a copy of your ex^ er ditures,
and I will, on seeing the same, send what money you require. A strict
account must be kept and promptly furnished that we may enter it in our
cash account. , Truly affectionately yours,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT.
"I am also happy to hear you intenil to improve in your writing, to do
which, good pens, ink and p-aper are desirable."
The following is the record of an occurrence that cast a gloom over the
whole eommunity, and' ocsarred while the author and, the Rev. James
, Clark ware crossing the canal to Port Dalhousie. It is from Mrs. Merritt's
journal of July 12 :
" We know not what a day will bring forth. At 11 o'clock attended
Divine service for the S30ond time in our new church, and listened to our
aged and baloved minister as at other time?, little draaming it was the last
time we should enjoy that privilege. That very afternoon ha mat with an
accident that caused his death the following Tuesday. Why we should be
visited with sj afflicting, so awful a dispensation without doubt we shall
know hereifcer. It is our duty to submit, and, oh, may this sad bereave
ment ba sanctified to the good of our, his flock's souls, and also to his dis
tressed family."
On the 23rd of July an important meeting, presided over by Sir A.
McNab, was held at Queenston Heights, for the purpose of rebuilding the
monument to Sir Isaa-e Brock, which an outlaw, named Ban. Lett, had
blown up since the rebellion times. Mr. ^Merritt at this meeting made
an eloquent and stirring speech, recounting in glowing words the battle,
tbe first and consequently the most important of the war of 1812, with
which, being on the spot, ha was familiar.
A subscription list was opened, and the noble shaft which now crowns
those historic heights and does silent honor to the ilhistrious departed,
attests the success of the undertaking.
It is worthy of note that the table used by the Secretary of the meat-
ing, was the one used by Govemor Simcoe, when he held court in old Niag
ara, nearly a half a century previous, and was lent by Mr. Woodruff of St.
Davids, for the occasion.
Shortly after, the news of the passage of the Union Bill was received :
De.vr Father— You have no doubt heard the (to yo'.i) gratifying intal-
ligenoe of tha pas.saga of tha Union Bill. The St. Georga brought tha
first news a few hours since. No papers have as yet arrived.^ It is not
well received here, particularly the informition that Montreal is to be the
seat of Government. It is thought, however, that it is more supposition
as to its position. Your affeetionate and dutiful son,
^ "W. H. MERRITT."

216
We read of a person divested of a limb feeling the pains incident there
to ; something of the kind must, in the absence of a Legislature and on the
passing of the Imperial Act, have disturbed the body politic.
The St. Catharines Journal, on the new consolidation of Canada says : —
" Much of our future welfare is as a people connected with its administra
tion under a -wise, prudent and Liberal Governor General. If the people do
their duty to themselves and their posterity, it may work well ; on the con
trary, much mischief and vexation may occur, and instead of proving a
blessing, we may find ourselves in a retrogradive position. As the country
increases in material numbers and wealth, the more power and weight our
representatives will obtain in the councils of the colony."
Electioneering plans were formed, as if a Parliament were about to
meet with the ensuing winter.
The following is from the advocate whose long experience in the prac
tice of law in Canada, and from whose forensic skill our subject had bled
profusely, and whose talents, in the opinion of those out of the profession,
might be turned to the advancement of the country in the coming
struggle : "Toronto, July 10, 1840.
"My Dear Sir — Yours of 4th inst. came duly to hand. I apprehend
there is no doubt but that Toronto will return two members, and I have no
doubt that I could be returned with certainty, if the Reformers will as a party
heartilygive me theirsupport, and I think it would be well if you would come
over and be ene of a select meeting to discuss and organize the matter.
Widmer has spoken to me, and Baldwin himself will give his support,but
it must be brought about, not by soliciting support, which might be
construed by some as evincing an anxiety on my part to attain some ulte
rior object for myself. They can't understand a man coming forward on
public grounds, and therefore a suspicion would at once be created by my
showing an anxiety about it, and consequently those who are anxious that I
should be retui-ned must get up a requisition to which of course I can re
spond. Committees should then be formed and all would go regularly on.
There are many moderate men of the Tory side who would vote for me as
a man in whose loyalty they would confide, and -who would trust to my
judgment and the large stake I have in the town to do nothing that would
endanger the peace of the country, and thus I would get support from many'
-who would prefer me as a man of property and experience to other candi
dates not having the same hold upon them. Write and say what you think.
" Yours truly, B  ."
" Toronto, 10 July, 1840.
Dear Sir — I believe as you do, that Mr. P  is sincere in the
opinions he has avowed, and thinks that it would be an object to have him
returned by the reform interest to the next Parliament. In this opinion
Mr. H — . — , I am satisfied, participates as well as some other refoimers
here, but there is, as I have told Mr. F  himtelf, a very great general
distrust of him — in fact so much so that I have had complaint made against
me for having been understood to have expressed the foregoing opinions,
and have been cautioned that it will affect my election if I appear promi-

217
nently desirous of his return. I have been anxious that there should be
a meeting of a few of the Reform party here to consider the subject, but no
one seems willing to entertain it until it is ascertained with certainty that
the city is to have a second member, and whether the election is to be by a
joint vote or by wards. Mr. Dunn and D, Widmer also have been spoken
of, and if either of them would stand, I anT satisfied there would be no
chance for any other persons. " Believe me, yours truly,
" R. W. BALDWIN."
"Toronto, 15 July, 1840.
" My Dear Sir — I was much pleased to find by your letter that your
canvas in Haldimand had been so successful, as I feared that Mr. Thomas'
address might have caused a diversion. I do trust there will be no further
opposition, and that you will stick to Haldimand. I fear much that your
coming forward for Lincoln, which has been announced, would cause
trouble and perhaps a split among our party, which is not strong enough to
bear anything of the kind. I get credit for being one of the extremes, but
I assure you I have to bear a good deal of abuse, and unmerited suspi
cion, because I do not go far enough. When I was over in Queenstown
and St. Davids -with Mr. La Fontane, Mr. Thorburn heard Mr. Woodruff
denouncing my course as highly improper, and there are plenty here to
say the same thing. I do not mind this, however. I am determined to act
-with all who will in good faith support the Liberal party. I care not by
what name it is called. I am not disposed either to quarrel with such men
as Mr. Harrison, who stops short of our views and who will not yet identify
themselves, with our party. We must accept a few such men, but as few
as possible. They will probably, if we act with temper and judgment, form
right in the lead. "You know how unpopular Mr. B  is personally,
and how suspicious people generally are of his principles. I had a letter
yesterday from Mr. La Fontane, and he mentioned having heard from you.
He writes in good spirits and says his friends are well satisfied with his
report of the feelings towards them here. There is a very excellent article
in Le Canadien, edited by Mr. Parent, of Quebec. It declares that they
must abandon all idea of nationality, and prepare gradually to become
identified with the people about them. I shall translate and copy it.
" Believe me, dear sir, yours very truly.

"Toronto, 26th August, 1840.
" My Dear Sir — I have been so much occupied in one way and another
that I have not been able to snatch half an hour to answer your two let
ters. You wUl have seen by the papers that my business has been partly
political, and I must say the further I advance the more disgusted I get
withthe factious cDnduct of the Corporation or Tory party here. They
oppose responsible govemment, and say we are a colony and must submit
to the final authority and decision of the Home Government, but when the
Home Government appoint a Governor (Thompson) of politics differing
from their own, they denounce his policy and do all they can to return an
opposition member to defeat his views. This would be quite right for
responsibles to do, their desire being to carry out their own policy without
reference to the Government at home ; but when they profess to submit to
the Government at home and to defer theirs to the judgment of the Secre-

^18
tary of State,, I cannot understand how they can oppose the ¦ Governor ¦
sent from home. The truth is, as long as the Government at Home con
sults their wishes and looks thi-ough their eyes, it is quite right to be loyal
and do as you are bid from home ; but let the Home Government be
changed and get' into other hands, aiid then wa hear .a great deal about
respect for the Home Government and see a great deal of party virulent
opposition to it. My idea is that the Government here should be conduct-:,
ed according to our wants aud wishes and in harmony with the dominant
party for the time being, and quite independent of pa.rty politics in Eng
land. Changes of Ministry there should have no influence upon our affairs
here. At a meeting the other night I acquiesced in a deputation waiting
upon Dunn to offer for tlis town, to which he is to give an answer in a day
or two. If he does not come forward I shall be put in nomination ; but
he was, and I think correctly, considered to be the most popular man in
the city, and therefore he was named. "B."
" W. H. Merritt, Esq., St. Catharines."
The synopsis of the Imperial Act has in it most important articles, as
follows : It is entitled
An Act to ra-unite tho provinces of Upper and Lower Canada, and for
the Govarnnient of Canada.
Sec. 4. — Only a subject eligible for a Legislative Councillor to be sum
moned by the Govei-nor.
9 — Governors to appoint tlioir Speaker.
25 — He appoints time and place of election.
3-5 — Oath — I do sinoereiy promise and swear that I will be faithful
and bear true aliegi-anoe to Her Majesty Queen Victoria, as lawful Queen
of Great Uritain and Ireland and of the Pi-ovinco of Canada, dependant On
and belonging io the sidd United Kingdom, aud that I will defend her to
the utmost of my power. .
82 — That out of the consolidated revenue fund of the Province of
Canada there shall be payable in every year to Her Majesty, £45, 000. for
Gjvernor, Lieuten;int (j-ovornor, 1 Q'.azL Justice, 4 Provincial Judges, 10
Council 01 Lower Canada, 1 Chief Justice of Montreal,- 3 Provincial
Judges, 10 Judges; pensioners, etc., £20,000; Civil Secretary, Provincial
Seci-etary, Receiver General, Inspector General, Executive Council, Board
of Works, etc., these cost, $300,000.
53 — The independent civil aud j-adioial list.
Si — Surrender the territorial and casual revenue belonging to the
Crov.'n, throe-lifths to eoiisolidatei revenue till five years after the demise
of Her Majesty.
56 — First charge on the duties, expense of collection; second, the in
terest on public debt ; third, the clergy ; fourth, civil list, £45,000 : fifth,
judicature, £.S0,000; sixth, old accounts.
57 — Tjiat it is not lawful for tho Legislature to originate or pass any
vote, resolution or bill of appropriation except by a message of the Gov
ernor. 60 — Labrador, from St. Johns, to be taken from Newfoundland and
annexed to Quebec. -
Two mora unimportant sections finish the list.

219
We do not wish, i'n passing through the acts of ^Ministers, to obliterate any
good intentions towards this distant portion of Her Majesty's possessions,
nor is it our business to -andertake to write a political Liatory further than
to relate the connection of our suVjject thereto ; but tho clauses of the
Union Act quoted above show that in surrendering, their power to stop
the supplies and to originate injpoi'tant bills, ministers had legislated so
as to place the peo])le and Government of Canada entirel}' under their
power, and the history of our Government, detailed in this biography,
shows that our subject, with other fellow-oountrymeu, ceasing to have the
power to originate bills or to have any pov.'er over the money granted, left
the Government in the hands of the Ministi-3',' who always represented Im
perial interests, so that the British Government, being responsible for all
the acts, by this act, adroitly worded, made it to appear the responsibility
as belonging to the people of Canada.
The gradual weaning frona sorae of his canal improvements is sho-.vn
in a letter to the author at Toronto from St, Catharines dated Aug, 17th.
This had taken up a good deal of his time, as he had visited the Grand
River every month since tbe opening of navigation:
" My Dear Son — I returned from the Gtrand Ftiver on, Friday. The
improvements will be finished all well this v/eek, and I hope to be there
after relieved from further attention to tJuit object,"
H. K., in a long aud confldential letter, jiotiMe,^ him of the departure
of the Governor General from Montreal for the West, aud remarks that
he took a wide range in the Eastern Pr.jvinoes, being upon the Vermont
frontier, " MONT.HEAL, 13t,;i July, ISIO.
"My Dear Sir — The Governor told me that imniediately, on his return
from Halifax, he would i^o -vvest. He niev be here the latter end ot this
week. " ¦ "Ii. K."
"Montrisal, 14th August, 1840.
" My Dear Sir — I received your letter Lei-e on our arrival from a
tour in the eastern townships. The Govcinor General desires uie to in-'
form you that itis his intention to leave this for Upper (.'aiuula on Tues
day next, and that he exjiects to be at St. Catharines on TLursuay or Fri
day, and that he proposes to stay at Niagara for a few days iiftei- that. Any
arrangements, therefore, which you may de>ire to make could ba made at
that time. " Believe me, my dear sir, very faithfully yours,
"T. W. C. MURDOOK,
" W, H, Merritt, Esq."
In Augu?t, the Govar,ior General, Sir 'P. Thompso-,i, visited t':is
neighborhood, and was entertained by the people of St, Catharines with a
public breakfast. He afterwards went up tha canal in company with our
subject, and left for the west at Port Colborne, in a government staamar.

220 " St. Catharines, August 30, 1840.
" My Dear Thomas — We had the Governor General at Stephenson's
yesterday morning. There was quite a respectable number met him and
presented an address. Your father accompanied him and suit to Port Col
bome. Father says he (the Govemor General) is very much pleased with
the canal. Your affectionate mother,
"C. M."
The changes in the constitution had now rendered a new election neces
sary, ard a convention being held at St. Catharines, composed of delegates
of the advocates of the union, from different townships, and they being
pleased with Mr. Merritt's course therein, offered him the representation
of the county, which after (fonsideration, believing they fully represented
the majority of the people of the county, he accepted. He afterwards paid a
visit to his old constituency in Haldimand, and delivered his farewell address.
There was not at this time great concord in the Governor's house
hold, as the following from the former engineer of the Welland, and now
promoted to the presidency of the Board of Works, will show :
" Board of Works, 20th October, 1840.
" My Dear Sir — I do not wonder at the mortification you express
respecting your affairs in thb Welland, but I cannot understand at all how
matters are now going on. If I understand aright stones are being got
out and prepared, but in what system, and without an aim to what- class of
work or specification 1 Because it may be very easy to, as it were,
strengthen the justice of the extravagant estimate by the rate of what is
now doing.
" I never heard of the letter sent the Welland Board, by order of the
Governor, to furnish him with an estimate, and presuming (at least I fear)
it was suggested to him to do so through the late Military Secretary,
Major Hall, prompted probably either by  or some of the corps,
who are very clannish, and will bear each other out, if it be possible. Hall
has left, for which I am not sorry.
" Tell Richard Boyle his petition was referred to m e, and that I strong
ly urged his claim upon the favorable consideration of His Excellency tMs
day, and that he will shortly be settled with.
" Faithfully yours,
" H. H. KILLALY."
" Office of Board of Works, Nov. 6th.
" My Dear Sir — Not to permit our correspondence to drop, I take up
my pen, although I have little to say. The Council is and has been sit
ting these two days closely. They are now hard at work at the Registry
Bill, which I believe to be a most excellent one, and cleverly drawn up —
rather long, but it is said unavoidably so. 'fhe sitting, it is generally sup
posed, will last about a fortnight, and I have reason to believe that no time
will be lost in bringing the Union into play and holding the elections. It
is generally represented to His Excellency that a reaction against the Ex
ecutive may take place if longer delayed. My opinion is so, and I think
some of the late men started upon supposed Government interest and in
fluence, will not contrive to keep that influence in good odour with the

221
people. Neilson, you observe, is hammering away. He is doing much
mischief — not stopping at anything to work his ends. Among others, he
is getting up little less than rebellion against the sleigh ordinance, which,
through him, causes great excitement just now.
" All the official and private letters from the foreign department unani
mously concur in stating all fear of war is over. Thank God !
" The Colonel's estimate and speciflcation affords much amusement to
all the officers of his corps I meet with. They all concur in .paying he
knows nothing of practice, and that some treatises published by him in
his more immediate department some time ago are laughed at by officers.
You can do nothing except through the Legislature. The Governor Gen
eral will not sanction any expenditure or debt until then. Wilson's "tax
ation without representation" may have confirmed him in this.
" You have, you may depend on it, several and active friends, who have
bellowed sufficiently upon " Merritt's speculation, extravagance, chimerical
ideas," etc. They are all above in your city.
" With esteem, faithfully yours,
"H. H. KILLALY,"
" Office op the Post Office Commission, Montreal, Nov. 19.
" Sir — I have to request that you will furnish me, for tbe information
of the Post Office Commissioners, with the least pos.sible delay, a return of
your pay and emoluments as Post Master at St. Catharines for the year
ending 5th July last, distinguishing therein the various sources from which
your income has been derived. You will please also to state, under the
head of observations, what expense? you have actually incurred, during the
same period, for clerk hire, office rent, etc.
" The Commissioners desire to be further informed whether you regu
larly afford your personal ser-vices to the duties of the office, or whether
the management devolves upon an assistant.
" I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient servant,
"CHRIST. DUNKIN."
Our subject, in reply to the above communication, sent the information
required, which was as follows :
"I allow the clerk the entire percentage of this office, wjiich is £53
63. 3|d. ; he pays office rent equal to £6 ,5s. Od. ; fire wood, £2 lOs. Od. ;
net proceeds, £44 lis. 3fd. I have the benefit of franking my private let
ters, and attend at the office when required to answer any commumcations,
making up returns, <fcc. ; but the daily management devolves on the assist
ant, who is at this moment William Copeland."
October 20. — A strong protest, signed by several who have since
borne prominent situations in Canada, against the Act of Union, appeared
at this time, these dissentients being mostly in the Lower Province.
The views of Mr. Merritt's supporters in his own county with regard
to his qualifications for their representative may be gathered from this re
port of the convention, taken from the Journal of December 31, 1840 :
" That, as it was generally understood that the services of Mr. Merritt
or Mr. Thorburn would be required, the committee lost no time in waiting
on these gentlemen. Mr. Merritt having, at their unammous solicitation.

222
promised to acecdo to tlieir vashas, provided the latter did not, and the
latter running for the South Riding, v,^e have the happiness to congratulate
you upon Mr. Merritt's acceptance of the nomination.
" Fellow subjects — As we are now approaching a most important crisis
in our political affairs, it becomes our duty to place before you a few con
siderations -which have influenced us in selecting Mr. Merritt as the most
fitting candidate.
"It will'be the duty of the first United Legislature to establish such a
system of Government as will restore confidence and tranquility to tbe
country, and insure our future peace and consequent prosperity ; and deeply
impresssd with the belief that Her jMajesty's subjects in Canada are entitled
to the same political privileges as are enjoyed by their fellow subjects at
home, and at the same time most anxious that the connection with our
fatherland should be perpetuated, we have solicited one- known to entertain
enlarged and liberal views of Constitutional Government."
The principles of the British Constitution were not as well understood
here as at home. An instance is given in the passage of the Reform Bill
to illustrate its practice there. The committee then continues :
" Befora the appearance of Lord Durham's i-eport, many worthy men
believed we were already in possession of the British Constitution — smce,
they now assert wa cannot have the British Constitution while a colony of
the British Empire,
" It is most surprising that any portion of our fellow subjects can be
found advocating a system that did produce discontent in the old colonies.
" The committee conscientiously believe that the British Government
desire to make the people of Canada happy and contented. That British
statesmen can have no motive or interest in withholding from us the
beneficial effects produced by the practical working of their own constitu
tion. That the system recommended by Lord Durham's report would se
cure us all we desire — the management of our internal affairs. That such
a politic and liberal concession would form the strongest of all possible ties
by which we would be attached to the Government and Empire of Great
Britain. " Baing composed of King, Lords and Commons, neither of them could
carry on the government without the co-operation of the other. If any
has the most power it is the people's branch, for they possess the power to
withhold annually the supplies,
" To secure these inestimable blessings, therefore, your committee would
recommend the selection of Mr, Merritt as their representative for Up
per Canada in the United Parliament."
As the committee acknowledged ignorance on the subject, a great deal
of confidence was necessarily reposed in our subject, which he recipro
cated, we believe, and felt, therefore, the weight of the responsibility.
That he did not forget his family interests, the following letter to the
author will show : "St. Catharines, 7th December, 1840.
" My Dear Son — Yours of the 1st instant directed to me, and one of
the 3d instant to Thomas, requesting him to send you $20, is at hand, and
the amount is herewith enclosed. You request more correspondence from

223
home, but you do not provoke it by writing many or long letters yourself
although it -would appear you had, not only more leisure, but that it would
be more serviceable to you, by practising what you will in after life have
much to do, if well and useful in any sphere of life.
" Mr. Atkinson preached two sarmons on Sunday, and although very
stormy, they were well attended. He is getting a very large congra<'ation
and I pray may do us all much good. ° * ' '
" You anticipate much pie. isure in spending the holidays at home. I
hope it may be realized. The season is so boisterous that unless the day
is fair do not come over in the steamer. You can select a good day, and
get a wagon in Niagara— there is generally some down from the country.
I will thank Mr. Grasette to give you a description of the lots in the deed
sent for his son, together with the name, so that I may have them wrote
bj William on parchment. I will write William on the morrow.
'' Your affectionate flither,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT.
" Mr. J. P. Merritt." "Board op Works, 7th December, 1840.
" My Dear Sir — I have ju.st had yours of the 26th ultimo. The same
postbroug^jt me a letter from Mr. Adams, enclosing one of your addresses
to the electors, which I have not yet read, as Mr. Murdock got hold of it
and brought it over to the Governor, from whom I have not yet got it.
"Our Special Commission is doing very little — travels at snail's jjace.
I have just heard the Executive Council has been summoned. I think
but little time will be lost now in declaring tha Union. YOu will see by
the papers that all idea of Queliec being the seat of Government is aban
doned. This place is, also. I believe it will ultimately end in Kingston.
" I am glad to see by your letter that Hall is making an estimate, so
that your matters will be fully prepared against the meeting of the Legis
lature. I have not seen anything further of Mr. Manley's documents.
Those sent to us are merely three plans of his line a-ad location of locks.
" Yours faithfully,
"H. H. KILLALY.
" W. H. Merritt, Esq." '
Messrs. Merritt and Rykert generally acted together and voted uni
formly in the direction of improvements, even up to the last acts of the
last Parliament, whose act in surrendering the Constitution we have found
it necessary to condemn. They voted with the forty-three for the Union,
including the permanent judiciai list. The difference increased during the
canvass, and the election turned on the Union and " responsible" govern
ment. Concord retumed when the latter left the electoral contest. Mr.
Rykert turned his attention to local affairs, while Mr. Merritt attempted
to carry out the interests of the country in Parliament, with what success
remaining pages will show. In the meantime, the contest was carried on
through the columns of the Journal and Constitutionalist in an internecine
paper war.

224
1841.
An anomaly in the history of Canada — no Parliament had been called
before the holidays, and our subject hid the leisure to enjoy them iu the
l)osom of his family. The following epistle gives in homely style the occu
pations he and they were engaged in :
" St. Catharines, 3d January 1841.
" My Dear Mother — Christmas and the New Year holidays, -with all
their merry making and social greetings are past. The custom of gentle
men making calls on the first day of the year is practised here pretty gen
erally. Many who have no communication the rest of the year -will on
that day call at each other's houses and take a bit of cake -with the lady.
The young men made great reckoning on paying Miss A  a -visit, aa
they remembered how bountifully they were regaled there last year ¦with
hot coffee, etc, and they fared quite as well this year, by the account our
boys gave. We allowed William to have a party Tuesday evening, audit
was pretty well attended. Uncle Elias, Aunt Susan and Dr. Chase were
among the young folks.
" Our new church looked very neat on Christmas day — the pillars
wound with evergreens, and festoons in front of the gal lery ,-• but best of
all, we have a good faithful clergyman aad a large and attentive congre
gation. Only the family dined with us, as Mrs. M. said some years ago she
would never give another dinner on Christmas ; she thinks it is not a
proper day. " Your affectionate daughter,
"C. M."
The wail of mourning for the rebellion had not yet died out in the land,
and while most are enjoying the season in the society of family and friends,
some have to pass it in solitude, sorrowing for those banished to the farthest
extremity of the habitable globe : "Bertie, January 12th, 1841.
" Dear Sir — I have just been informed that you have received a letter
from Sir John Franklin, of Van Dieman's Land, saying that the liberty
of the island had been granted to Mr. Wait, and my intense anxiety to
know the truth of this pleasing intelligence induces me to trouble you
with this note. I have recently received a letter from Mr. Wait, which is
rather encouraging, in which he speaks most highly of the country, -wishing
me to come out, if possible, and Mr. Roberts, the gentleman to whom him
self and Mr. Chandler were assigned on landing in that country, has also
written to me, holding out inducements for me there, saying that from a
knowledge of my exertions for my husband, whom he respects from acquain
tance, he is disposed to render me services on my landing in that country,
and that I may rest assured of a comfortable and happy home. TMs was
indeed unexpected, though I was aware of every influence being exerted on
my behalf by my friends in England, and fain would I go could I see the
possibility of my doing so, but this I must leave to Him who is able to pro
vide. I fear the time is distant 'when I shall be permitted to lay my case
before the United Legislature, as the Governor General seems disposed to

225
withhold that privilege. I am stopping at Mr. S. McAfee's, where I have
a school three miles below Fort Erie, from which post office a line ¦?rill
reach me, should you kindly oblige " Your most grateful servant,
"MARIA WAIT.
"W. H. Merritt, Esq."
« St. Johns, N. S., April 30, 1841.
" Dear Sir — -While I have to mourn the loss of a kind husband, I am
at the same time doomed to waste my strength in endeavoring to procure a
living for the large family of little ones which he has been doomed to leave
me. I have been led to these reflections in order to impress you with the
conviction that it is through necessity that I make this appeal to you, hop
ing that you will exercise your influence in a Legislative capacity, and, per
adventure, procure the return of my husband to the bosom of his family;
and in so doing you will infinitely oblige " Your humble servant,
"ELIZA CHANDLER.
" W. H. Merritt, Esq."
The past year was a remarkable one in many ways. Extraordinary
powers were placed in the hands of the Govemor. The seat of government
was changed to Kingston, and in accordance with Ms promise to the Cana
dian people, that steam communication with Europe would be established
by the Imperial Government, it resulted in a contract being given to Mr«
Cunard ; but instead of being a real benefit to Canada, it was the reverse,
as the vessels only stopped at Halifax, and alternately went on to Bostcn
and New York, thereby benefitting the Erie Canal, and the commerce of
the United States, and diverting our own from its natural outlets by tho
lakes and St. Lawrence, to the ocean.
The annual report of the canal, under Mr. Merritt's presidency, was
published, and showed a promising statement. The traffic had materially
increased, the tolls rising to the large sum of $80,000 during the year, ¦with
4 bright prospect ahead. The results of the past season put a damper on
those who opposed the canal, and all now looked forward to the gi-and im
provements as calculated to place this work far in advance of its previous
position. " St. Catharines, 28th January, 1841.
" My Dear Sir — I beg leave to enclose you for the information of His
Excellency the Governor General a copy of the report of the Welland
Canal Company for 1840. This document proves that the amount of stock
and loans held and made by the Provincial Government of Upper Canada
prior to 1837 did not exceed £209,000 sterling. Secondly— That in con
sideration of the interest on £50,000 sterling, the British Government are
secured by a Provincial statute to the free transit of the canal for all
Government stores, and that the one-ninth of the cost of the canal, which
it was the intention of the Ministry at that time to grant, has been re
served. Thirdly — That the work has been constructed at a less cost than
any similar work in America of equal magnitude. That its progressive

226
income has exceeded the amount set down by its most sanguine promoters.
That a revenue of only £25,650 for an average of three years will not
only pay the interest on loans since 1837 — six per cent, dividend on pri
vate shares — but the interest on a future outlay of £400,000.
" With this favorable result you may imagine my deep regret in being
compelled to announce that another year has passed away and the canal not
one hour nearer its completion than when plax;ed under the control of the
Executive Government of Upper Canada in 1837. I feel this disappoint
ment the more keenly from a consciousness the money could have been ob
tained, the feeder to Grand River widened and the material prepared for
one-half the locks by the opening of the ensuing navigation, out of the
resources of the canal itself, had the Executive continued that counte
nance which has ever been reposed in my judgment by the private share
holders. With a hope that the Union wiU take place in time to put
the work under efficient management,
" I am, sir, yours, <fec.,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT.
"T. W. C. Murdock." "Board of Works, 3d February, 1841.
" My Dear Sir — I go to Kingston in the moming to preparq for the
meeting of the Legislature. I am ordered to be ready by the 1st of May.
This takes the bull by the horns, that place being fixed by the authorities
at home and here as the proper site permanently. The Governor is certainly
right at once to get there and set the question at rest. Going to Toronto
for a season or two would only keep up the agitation of this question, as
well as bolster up the hopes of the party now expiring.
" The Council expect to rise on Saturday, but I don't think they can
until Tuesday. The proclamation will follow instanter. Harrison and
Draper are down here. The French are exerting themselves much, but
quietly. " Faithfully yours,
"H. H. KILLALY."
Among the items of engineering and political gossip, from his Irish, and
consequently, animated correspondence, the really important measure of
adapting the screw for propulsion is here foreshadowed :
Kingston, 9th February, 1841.
" My Dear Sir — I have just had yours of the 29th ultimo. You ask
what has become of me 1 Why, I have written you two letters lately, in.
which I mentioned all my proceedings with respect to being here busily en
gaged in preparing for the meeting of the Legislature early in May. The
London election, Ihave reason to know, will be on the 1st of March, the
county about the 7th, and all the others at the same time.
" You see the report is short enough, but on the whole very satisfac
tory — in fact nothing more can be said. I believe I stated to you that I
got Lord Sydenham to write to the Admiralty for official information of the
practical results of the various trials and improvements making for some
time back in that department and the Post Office, as to the powers of the
screw driven vessels. Should it be found to answer, beyond all doubt I
conceive it settles the question of our scale of locks here at once, as one of
24 or 26 feet wide will permit a steamer to pass through ofthe capacity and

227
tonnage of the Great Britain. I should like very much to see Mr. Hall's
maps. I got a copy of the proclamation the day before yesterday, but I
have not yet heard of its being officially received. It is d^ted the 5th, and
and proclaims ' That on and after the 10th instant, the provinces are unit
ed, <£c.' " Yours faithfully and with esteem,
"H. H. KILLALY.
" Marks has at last come out here. The Admiralty say he must resign
his situation if elected. I think Forsyth will get in for tMs place. Barkus
has resigned. Cartright, I am told, ¦will not come in, but this is questioned.
I left Draper and Harrison in Montreal."
As ' a record of the links of the improvements in the communication
to the sea-board, the following items concerning the Chambley Canal will
not be entirely out of place : " St. John's, L. C, 12th Febraary, 1841.
" Dear Sir — The Commissioners of this canal have been singularly un
fortunate in its prosecution and management. A series of disasters of one
kind or other has attended them from the beginning. They at first got into
difficulty with the contractors, who took the work too low, and although
they were allowed for a good many extras, they still have an unsettled
claim against the Commission of some £20,000, which although in a course
of prosecution will never be paid. They next got at loggerheads with their
engineer. Their work was left in an unfinished state, after expending all
their money. They made an attempt to recommence it in 1839, and ap
plied for my services to superintend it ; but after making up the estimate,
plans, specifications, &o., they were unsuccessful in obtaining funds, and of
course I left them. Last year they were more fortunate, for they succeeded
in obtaining a part of the amount, and the work was recommenced under
Mr. Baird, who unfortunately became deranged, and got everything in a
most awful state of confusion, and although upwards of £8,000 was spent
during the last season, I do not think the work is a bit farther advanced
than when I made the estimate in 1839. If their present engineer retains
his senses in putting things in order and doing what has been undone, he,
may consider himself most fortunate. It is my intention, however, to do
the best I can, and hope I may be so fortunate as to see this work com
pleted. With kind remembrances to Mrs. Merritt and family,
" I remain very truly yours, " G. KEEFER."
"Toronto, 11th February, 1841.
" My Dear Sir — -I was absent at Tyendenagha on duty when your let
ter of the 26th January reached this office. I have laid it before the
Governor. The surrender of the land from Green's to Brantford Bridge
requires consideration, and should not be done hastily. That it is highly
important to Brantford to have the canal continued to that place I admit.
Mr. Wilkes' plan of doing it from the Indian monies would never meet
with the sanction of the Indians, and I tMnk it ¦will require great manage
ment to induce them to contribute in any manner to it.
" The Lieutenant Governor, on the 8th instant, directed me to include
my name in the list of directors for the ensuing year, to represent the In
dian stock, and I have written to Mr. Jackson to transfer in my name the
number of shares necessary to qualify me for the office.

228
" I shall be most happy to co-operate in anything which may make the
stock productive. I know Mr. Wilkes is making great exertions to get t'le
control of the direction, and I have been told has divided a few shares of
stock into many parts, to command a majority of votes.
" Whatever course is adopted in reference to the continuing of the work
to Brantford, none should be rashly entered upon, aud I have been directed
to make myself master of the subject before assenting to any proposition.
" Believe me, my dear sir, yours very faithfully, " S. P. JARVIS." ;
The necessity of keeping a connected record of the events of this veiy
important period in the history of our subject in the items of intelligence
conveyed by his various correspondents necessitates occasionally going
over the same field. In the present letter, the information of when the
elections would probably be held has already been conveyed authoritatively
from head-quarters. "Toronto, 18th February, 1841. '
"'MyDkarSir — I have just received your note ofthe 16th. With respect
to Norfolk, a diffiotdty has arisen not anticipated, and which might have
very seriously embarrassed the party. As it is, however, I do not think
it will signify. I have a requisition from Lennox and Haddington, one isl
coming from Hastings, another from the North Riding of York, and they
are getting up another from the East Riding of Halton. I am not yet de
cided as to the one which I ought to accept. Mr. Mcintosh has greatly
offeaded his constituents by offering to retii-e. By the latest information
that I have, the arrangement was to have the elections on the 8th and 15th
March. On the former for the towns and on the latter for the counties.
" Believe me yours truly,
"ROBT. BALDWIN."
The following mode of influencing men of a foreign nationality, and
other electioneering items of that day, may not be without their instruc
tion to present aspirants for political honors. The character of being a
" plain man'' will go a great ways with men who are straightforward in
their dealings, as the Dutch Menonesse of Clinton proverbially were :
" Beamsville, February 18.
" Dear Sir — I received your note, and beg to acquaint you that I have
used every endeavor to obtain the information you required, but I found it
q-uite impossible to acquire a correct and accurate list. However, I feel
quite confident that you will get a majority of voters. Some few of the
Dutch who live near Patterson will vote for Rykert, but the great majority
of this class of citizens will vote for you. Several Dutchmen told me
that they felt convinced that Rykert could not obtain a dozen out of their
aumber. Many will not vote at all.
" Patterson has turned out to assess a month earlier than usual, and
imay influence their miuds somewhat, but, I think, not to any extent. Should
you happen to be ia their neighborhood, call upon them and use them after
their own fashion. I will just mention that many of them like you and will
vote for you because they think you what they call in their homely fashion a plain
man. This I mention by wav of a hint, as it goes a great way with them.

229
I will continue to exert myself, as usual, as much as possible, and should any
thing turn up I will send you word.
" I will say no more, but shall be happy at any time to further your views
in any way you may point out. '' Yours sincerely, "W. G. DICKINSON."
" Smithville, 8th March, 1841.
" Mt Dear Sir— I forward to you the proceedings of the committee at
the,last meeting, and have to regret that I cannot attend the hustings at
present, on account of one of my children being very sick. I employed or
spent two days in following up the " great Chronicle," with good effect. This
part of Grimsby remains untainted. Every committee man in this section
has been awake. Mr. Rykert has conducted himself in a manner truly as
tonishing. We hope to bid him farewell. '
" I am, sir, truly in haste,
"ABISHAI MORSE.
"Wm. H. Mrrritt, Esq."
" N. B. — Our friends are coming down by loads. "A. M."
At a meeting of the Committee for Townships at Beamsville on Monday,
Ist, March, 1841, it was
" Resolved — That this committee add to its number as follows :
" Caistor — Henry Miller, Andrew Gregory, Hiram Lymbourne, Josiah
N'elson, Peter Simmons, Paul Horton.
" Gainsborough — Wm. J. Stuart, Bobert Comfort, Gilbert Lane, Thomas
Robins, Ab. Crow, Luke Cavers, Alex, Garner, Wm. 0. Eastman, Jacob Ken
nedy, Wm. Gardner.
" Grimsby — Peter Buokbee, John Harris. John D. Beamer, George
Adams, John Ness, R. 0. Griffin, D. Wolverton, D. Palmer, Wm. Merritt.
" Clinton — Daniel Smith, Daniel Freeland, Isaac Teeter, Nathan Gilmore,
John Bnchner, Dr. Dickinson, Philip Gregory, Adam Adair.
" Louth — Wm. Adams, Adam Brown, Wm. Purdy, Isaac Overholt,
Ben. Gould, Geo. E. Reed.
" Grantham — John Gilliland, Pat. McClinchy, Ab. Hosteter, John Darby,
Deacon Smith.
"2. That a part of this committee attend at the hustings as follows : For
Caistor-^ames 'Tisdale, John Merritt. Gainsborough — Thomas Hardy,
John Page. Grimsby — Henry Smith, David Palmer, D. Wolverton, F. A.
Morse, by request of Mr. Merritt. Clinton — Rowly Kilboru, Tim Hixon,
Louth — B. Gregory, Isaac Overholt. Grantham — All.
" 3. That the members of the committee at St. Catharines are hereby
authorized to send teams to the members of the township committees
Respectively, who are r equired to give the address of those persons that will
support the election of Mr. Merritt, and .this committee will use every exer
tion to effect that object."
We have mentioned the name of Robert Gourlay in the earlier part of
this work, and we have shown that he was supported by our subject at no
little sacrifice. Subsequent events will show him to be still a warm friend
and advocate, but his views of infringing the rights of the British subject
were unappreciated by the mass of the electors, and though the local press

230
had been crowded by his narratives for months previous, he failed, for want
of a personal canvass, to be nominated as a candidate for the United Parlia.-
ment. The following remarkable document on the subject of the election
was written by him : "Indiana, U. S., February 26, 1841.
" To W. H. Merritt and G. Rykert, Esquires .-
" Gentlemen — I am to make to you an extraordinary request ; but one
compliance with which will do you the highest honor. I ask you to relin
quish for the present your desire to represent in Parliament the North Rid
ing of Lincoln and exert yourselves in getting me elected. My address to
the electots was published prior to yours. You, therefore, oppose me ; not.l
you. But your opposition has in no way altered my mode of action. I
never meant td canvas for votes or contend with any individual. My mean
ing was to give the inhabitants of Niagara district an opportunity to do me
justice, and that in the most noble manner. This is what I mean, and it will
be in your power to explain my meaning to all, which I cannot do, confined
as I am by sickness. On the 4th of May, 1818, I became the servant of
the people of Niagara district, and to please them, drafted an address to the
Prince Regent, which, after being submitted for months to the inspection of
the people of Upper Canada, was by them universally admired and adopted,
engrossed and despatched to England for presentation by Lord Erskine.
Had that address been sustained, the Province would assuredly long ere now
have been the most enviable spot on the habitable globe.
" Gentlemen — Should you lay aside hostility to each other, and go forth
to nominate me — should electors thus cheered on to unanimity, appoint me
as their representative in the Pariiament of Canada, who would- not applaud
your conduct, and what would you lose 'oyit? Comparatively nothing; for
after one session I would vacate my seat, and leave you to contend for the
remaining honor. For myself, I want only an opportunity to plead against
wrong, and thus have a chance of regaining my rights and my property, with
a home in Scotland.
" I have caused the records of 1818 to be reprinted, that all may be well
understood. A generation has grown up since then, and many have come
from distant parts who, without these records, may be incredulous. These,
with your good will, are sufficient, and even my presence at the hustings may
be dispensed with, should ill-health continue, or other circumstances hold me
at a distance. • "
" I am, gentlemen, in all sincerity yours, <fec.,
"ROBERT F. GOURLAY."
The election for the North Riding of Lincoln, came off on the 9th of
March. In Mr. Merritt's speech, we find a eulogy on the late lamented
Earl of Durham, to the adoption of whose report on the state of the Pro-
-vince by the Imperial Government, we owed the present hopeful state
of the Province. Many of the suggestions in the report were made by our
subject, but required an influential man like the Earl, to carry them out ia
England. The result was his election by a large majority over his old associate,
Mr. Rykert, who was opposed to the scheme of the Earl.

231
The prominent members returned at this election were — Morris, who
succeeded Gowan, for Leeds; H. Smith from Fontinac; Baldwin and Mur
ney, Hastings; Harrison, Kent; Price and Baldwin, York; Merritt and
Thorburn, Lincoln ; David Thomson, Haldimand ; Alan McNab, Hamilton ;
F. Hincks, Oxford, and T. Parke, Middlesex.
We have dwelt more on this election than any other, because of its im
portant result. The national feeling was the paramount element of Lower
Canada in opposition, exceeding that of sect, many of the contests at the
election being between Irish and French. Riots and loss of life occuirad in
the election of Caleb Hopkins, John Gilchrist, Dunn and Buchanan. In
D. M. Armstrong's election at Berthier seven were killed.
The very natural desire to celebrate their hard-earned victory at the
hustings is e-vinced by the party who had suffered so much by implication,
if not co-operation in the rebellion. Further on, we will have to give some
of the wire-pulling that prevented their success from producing the fruits
they so ardently anticipated. " Hamilton, March 27.
" My Dear Sir — Many of the leading members of our party have had
it in contemplation for some time past to commemorate the Parliamentary
return of a majority of Liberal candidates by giving a reform banquet at
this place in the course of the ensuing month — say on or about the 15th
proximo. " We propose to invite as special guests Messrs. Dunn, Baldwin and
Harrison, Buchanan, Small, Price, Hincks and any other Liberal member
whose residence at Toronto would enable him to attend, David Thorburn, D.
Thompson, yourself and our three county members. We anticipate being
able to accommodate from 250 to 300 persons in our Town Hall, and pledge
ourselves to do the thing in good style, if we obtain the concurrence of our
proposed guests. A festival at Hamilton will not prevent similar demonstra
tions at Toronto or other places, if desired ; but we think it particularly de
sirable to bold one here — firstly, because we can do so without fear of Orange
rioting,- and, secondly, because, as Fergusson says, it would be under the very
nose of Sir Alan McNab, who is one of the few "compact" members sent to
Parliament. We think the meeting of great importance, both to the Govern-..
ment and Reform party, because the social union of the present Liberal
administration with the Reform members of the neighborhood would indicate
a union of political sentiment, the exhibition of which would tend beyond
all things to seal the fate of our political enemies and place us in a firm and
distinguished position.
"I have been instructed by a committee to address you on this subject,
and shall be glad to hear that you are disposed to accede to our invitation.
I. may state that our arrangements are not sufficiently formed to enable us to
give them publicity ; but the parties connected with them are — The Hon.
Adam Fergusson, the Dundas reformers, Wilks and Moyle (of Brantford,
I believe), Ferrie, Young, Tiffany, Stinson and all in this place, and the
neighboring farmers have in many instances promised their support.

232
" Do me the favor to answer this at your earliest convenience. I shall
endeavor to communicate with Mr. Thorburn and Mr. Thomson and .the To
ronto gentlemen by this night's post.
" I am, dear sir, very faithfully yours,
"E. C. THOMAS:
"W. H. Merritt, Esq."
The patronage of the canal, with other public measures, by the new
arrangements centres in Government. The President of the Board of
Works and Councillor is now dictator of the position, vice Councillor and
Secretary McCauley. Kingston, 9th April, 1841.
" Yours of the 25th was forwarded to me here. I am about to leave for
Montreal where I will be for ten days, after which I return here. I am very
anxious to see Hall's plans. I saw your engineer in Toronto for a moment.
He appeared chagrined. I also saw Dr. Hamilton, who said, " The engineer
had given up a good deal of his expensive notions." I was sounded as to his
being again elected president. I said, of course, he should instantly vacate
his office. This did not appear to go. I fear an attempt was made to oust
Keefer. Has this been so, and what is the result ? I am very anxious to
know, but I heard in such a manner that I could not hint it to you with
out breach of trust. Write to me and inform me sure,.
" Yours with esteem, very truly,
"H. H. KILLALY."
Immediately after the election contest our subject began with all his
sanguine and energetic disposition to smooth the way for a real union with
our French fellow-subjects, by corresponding with the leading politicians .
The following is from an ardent Canadian — though not the one who
engaged in the rebellion : " Quebec, 27th April 1841.
" Mt Dear Sir— Your letter of the 15th instant only reached me yester
day. I shall, of course, consider it as ' private and confidential.'
" The members elected in this part of the country, as disapproving of
the Reunion Act, will adhere to the principles of the circular to the electors,
of which I enclose a copy. They do not, as you will see by that circular,
pronounce absolutely in favor ofthe repeal of the Union, but on its repeal or
amendment, so as to do away with the injustice done to the late Province of
Lower Canada. They may put on record the refusal of the majority of the
people of Lower Canada to give their consent to the Reunion Act, and their
representatives, I conceive, will readily concur with the representatives of Up
per Canada in any amendments to the act which may tend to make it more
consistent with justice to both provinces, and for the maintenance of the rights
of the representative body and the acknowledged liberties of British sub
jects, without distinction of national origin, religious belief, place of birth or
residence. They will, besides, I have no doubt, readily concur in such
measures as may tend to secure an able and impartial administration of jus
tice, and a faithful discharge of the duties of all executive officers, and a
proper system of responsibility and accountability . The facilitating the
settlement of the Crown lands, the freedom of industry and the improvement
of the great channels of commercial communication, will haye their decided

233
support, without any partiality to particular interests or localities; keeping
always in view the means of the country, and the obligation of not involving
ourselves or our posterity in extravagant projects and speculations, such as
are bringing so many difficulties on our southern neighbors. With respect to
edncatioD it must be facilitated to all alike, without distinction. Religious
gocicties must support themselves, there must be no interference with their
peculiar privileges, and allowing no power by the one over the other. In so
far as the consent and co-op iration of the British Government is concerned,
I should conceive that many good and useful laws, advantageous to both por
tions of Canada, will be more readily obtained by the representative body
of a million and a quarter of souls than could be obtained by them when
divided. You and I have, I beUeve, always differed in opinion on the ques
tion of uniting the Provinces; and we probably will continue so to differ.
The project originated in a desire to place the persons and property of the
subject at the mercy of the office-holders and their connections ; and it bears
marks of being completed in that design. The sacrifices that the assembling
of a representative body to treat of the common interest of a people extend
ed over upwards of twelve hundred miles of territory, different in language,
laws, religion, institutions, climate and circumstances, the manner in which
the revenue of the country has been appropriated without its consent, and the
Assembly bound down, leaves us only a mockery of free government and of
the British Constitution, which could not last in England, and still less in
North America. I have no doubt, however, that even this sham representa
tion of the country will enable men who have a permanent interest in it, to
eome to a better understanding with one another, for the common advantage,
and will in replacing the population in a condition likely to remain in connec
tion with the British Empire, and consistently with the allegiance which we
all owe to the British Crown.
"I speak of what I believe are the views of the representatives of Lower
Canada — those who disapprove of the Reunion Act. 1 have had no consulta
tion with any of them, lautl am not apprehensive of any mistake. They
ask justice for their constituents, the common rights of British subjects, and
are ready to promote for all the other inhabitants of the Province what they
ask for themselves. On particular questions, they will be ready to form their
conclusions indifferently to all parties or private interests. I can have no ob
jection that these views should be known to everyone.
" I remain, very respectfully, your obedient and humble servant,
*^ ^ ¦' "J. NEILSON."
The following is from one who retired from the public arena for the
position of collector at Port Colborne, whose kindness of disposition and
suavity of manner, characteristic of the Irish gentleman, endeared him to
all with whom he came in contact : "London, April 21st, 1841.
" My Dear Sir— -Yours of the 9th instant reached me in good time,
and my only excuse for not answering it immediately is that I did not know
how. One of ths questions you allude to is so very important and _i xtensive
in its connections— coupled with the tortuous deceit that long, scheming heads
hi and out of the House of Assembly will bring to bear on it, even putting
on the garments of angels of light— that I find I am utterly ineapable of giv
ing my views in the short compass of a letter, or, indeed, of placing them cor
rectly and fully on paper at all. The first question you allude to— that of

234
Speaker— with the friends of responsible government there can beno two
opinions. The Assembly should stamp its character indelibly by their choice
of a Speaker, including also the consideration that if not a Lower Canadian,
he should be a person in whom that portion of our fellow subjects have every
confidence, in order to show them that the reformers of Upper Canada have
every disposition to respect their feelings, and treat them in that friendly, fair
way that alone can naake the Union any way palatable to them. * -» I
have no personal acquaintance with the men returned from the Lower Province.
" I am, my dear sir, in esteem, truly yours,
"THOMAS PARKE."
" Ameliasburgh, May 3d, 1841.
"My Dear Sir— Yours of the 10th ultimo was duly received. I
agree with you that the success of our new administration must depend
upon the -wisdom of the measures tliey advocate, and it is all important
that we agree with them, if .we can do so without sacrifice of principle, and
I trust we shall in no case be called upon to do so in order to agi-ee with
them. I very much dread the civil list question, and I fear the Tories will
endeavor to drive us into that ground if they can. Should they do so, I
think our better plan would be to endeavor to evade it, till we give the
new Constitution a fair trial, as it is an experiment, and if we go to mend
ing it before we try it, should it prove a failure we may have ourselves to
blame for it. We have a most difficult task before us. I expect an attempt
will be made to get us into a squabble with the Govemor General respect
ing some of the elections in some part of the Province. Both Tories and
Republicans would glory in getting us into difficulties of that kind, but I
think our earthly salvation depends on our agreeing with His Excellency,
As it respects the Speaker, I agree also with you that if we can get a man
who can speak both languages it would be preferable, and if we could get
a Lower Canadian -who would answer the purpose it would, perhaps, be
the means of conciliating them, and certainly the^' deserve some considera
tion. I intend being in town on Monday evening, and hope to see you and
many other friends on Tuesday, the day previous to the assembling.
"I remain yours truly, "J. ROBLIN."
" Hamilton, May 4tb, 1841.
"My Dear Sir — Your favor of the 10th ultimo is before me, audits
reply has been postponed to the present time from unavoidable circum
stances. " You do me the honor to ask me if I think ' that the present Pro
vincial Ministry will feel it necessary to consult the representatives of the
people, with a view of ascertaining in what manner certain questions will
or should be disposed of I apprehend that the Ministry have no alter
native but to do so, unless — which I am reluctant to believe possible —
they place such great confidence in the venality or apathy of the Pa,rlia-
ment and the people as to apprehend no successful opposition to themselves
by a selfish and despotic .system of government.
" Your query appears to refer particularly to the civil list, and ths
propriety of amending the Union Act^ and you say that you have been
asked, ' Can the principles of the British Constitution be maintained with
out having the power of granting supplies vested in the representative

235
branch oi the Legislature, and what is substituted as an equivalent V
This is, indeed, a difficult question — one on which I must offer an opinion
with great diffidence, and would rather that my sentiments were received
as humble suggestions than as the dehberate feelings of a matured judg
ment. I am continually struck with the inaccuracy of the assertion that a
colony enjoys in all respects 'the image and transcript' ofthe parent State,
and the present question offers an additional proof of the inaccuracy.
" We have the written pledge ofthe Imperial Parliament that we shall
be ruled henceforth by men possessing the confidence of the people, and
that the acts of Government shall be in accordance with the wishes of the
people's representatives. To break this pledge would be, in my opinion,
to deprive us of a constitutional right, and would in fact — if I might so
say — extinguish the Constitution. Depend upon it, if the people of
Canada fire true so themselves, no Ministry and no Government dare alter
one iota of this recorded pledge. So wicked a step will soon be attempted;
and, though I acknowledge the inferiority of the machinery of colonial to
that of imperial representation, I am satisfied that honesty on the part of
our representatives, and energy and wisdom on that of ourselves, will al
ways secure to us the full measures of practical responsible or self Govern
ment. I think, moreover, that the question of a civil list has been, to a
certain extent, constitutionally disposed of by the respective Provinces, in
asmuch as the Upper Canada Legislature and the Lower Canada Govem
ment (such as it was) have determined that a sufficient civil list should be
granted for the Hfe of the present Sovereign. I say disposed of to a certain
extent, but I by no means imply therefrom that the amount of the civil list
has been constitutionally determined upon, nor do I yet know by what
right the Imperial Parliament has saw fit to fix that sum at £75,000 per
annum. It may be too much — it may be too little ; but, be this as it
may, I doubt the power of the Imperial Legislature to define the sum at
all. Thfi people of Canada stand pledged to the grant of a sufficient ci-vil
list ; thoy have yet, I conceive, to determine the amount of that civil list,
and, as an independent member of the Legislature, I should conceive it
to be my duty to consider maturely this branch of the subject, and to in
sist upon the right of the House to grant as much, or as little, as in its
wisdom may be considered sufficient for the payment of the several salaries
of the Crown. This will probably be the great bone of contention in the
ensuing session, and it will be a question legitimately the province of the
House to determine. I hope it may be approached in a conceding, yet
firm and manly spirit, and that neither factious opposition or venal sub
mission may be displayed upon it.
" With respect to the clauses of the Union Act generally, I cannot
think it politic to attempt to disturb them at present. They have been
assented to by the Imperial Parliament after a temperate and patient dis
cussion of the whole question, and, though some of the clauses are highly
objectionable, I am convinced that the bill, as a whole, is the best that
could be obtained at present from a Parliament in which the balance of
power rests so bro-adly in favor of an anti-Liberal aristocracy. We must
give the bill a fair trial, after which such clauses as are proved to affect us
injuriously or unfairly may with reason and justice be protested against.
"My great fear respecting the well-doing of the country arises from the
discussion in the Reform ranks. It cannot be doubted that there are

236
many who profess themselves to be Reformers, who are ready to be the
willing tools of any Government. On the other hand, there are not a few
hasty and suspicious tempers who will create discord where firmness and
moderation would answer a better purpose ; and again, there are those who
will be contented with nothing short of Republican institutions ; but these,
I am willing to believe, are now very few. ^
." But I am writing more than you will care to read, therefore shall only
add that I shall at all times fiud pleasure in recei-ying your sentiments on
political questions, and shall readily affocd you in return my humble and
imperfect ideas of the same. " I am, dear sir, faithfully yours,
"E. C. THOMAS."
" Toronto, 6th April, 1841.
"My Dear Sir — I beg to congratulate you on the result of the North
Lincoln election. * # * Xhe Speakership ¦will be
the first question before the House, and I think that there can be no
second opinion that a Reformer should be placed in the chair. You have
heard, no doubt, that Moffatt is spoken of, and is said to be the Govem
ment candidate. The latter is doubtful. I presume feelers are put forth.
McNab, of course, is in the field, and, ¦without management, may run bet
ter than we now think. He is a canny fellow, and will try to gain the
anti-Union party in Lower Canada. How, then, must we manage 1 I
tMnk one of our Reform party in this Provinca, or else a moderate anti-
Umonist below, must be the man. You will observe that anti-Unionist is
a most incorrect name. They are opposed to the details and not to the
principle of the bill. Tte advantages in favor of the latter are, of course,
his speaking both languages, which could be urged in favor of Moffatt.
The only men I can think of are Austin Cuvilier or yourself. I know
not what your views are on the subject, but I think you must see that we
must be a good deal governed by our friends below. I think wg should
try and get them to act with us from the outset. Pray, write me confi
dentially your views on these subjects, and believe me
" Yours very truly,
" W. H. Merritt, Esq." 
The canal was opened on the 30th April, fifteen or twenty vessels be
ing collected waiting for passage.
On the fourtli.of May, the launch of the Chief Justice Robinson took
place at Shickeluna's ship yard.
A flaming notice of the opanin.g of the salt water baths, ¦with a chemi
cal analysis of the contents, was published on June 1st, by C. W. Hellems.
Sixth Annual Report of the G. R. N. Co., approved at the meeting ofthe
stockholders, presided over by D. Thompson, M. P., at Simcoe, May 4, closes
with this notice of the improvements :
" It is understood a steamer will ply daily from Buffalo to Port Robinson
this season, from whence a packet boat will run to Dunnville, and a steam
tug thence to Cayuga. A number stand ready to complete it to Runnel's
Landing. A regular line of boats or scows from Port Dalhousie would
soon flnd employment in the transit of all the merchandise destined for
consumption west of Brantford. W. H. H."

237
In one of his familiar letters to his father-in-law, among other matters
regarding his family, occurs this estimate of the capabilities of one of the
family, whom he fondly hoped would be his successor in the reform of the
Mgher branches of Jegal jurisprudence :
Dr. P : William has selected the law, and as I have heretofore mentioned,
my aim is to make him a statesman, as he possesses rare ability for his
years, and. a judgment, which, if he continues to improve, without being
led into dissipation and vice, will place him among the Mghest rank of
competitoi-s. I have been so long satisfied of this, that I leave his pursuits
and studies wholly to himself. I find in figures and book-keeping a degree
of promptness and facility far exceeding anything I oyer possessed. He
commenced learning French with Mr. De LaHaye. Within a year
he has become a finished French scholar, speaks and pronounces the pure
Parisian, and reads and writes the language with ease. In December I had
a German to teach him. He has already made great progress. He attends
his office hours regularly, and applies himself to his studies before and after.
He says in another year — after he is master of French, German, and per
haps Spanish and Italian — that he will apply himself to law exclusively for
two years, and place himself at the top of his jn-ofession. He shall have
every facility from me. No expense shall be spared to forward his studies.
Perhaps I may be in a delusion, as every father views his children with a
partial feeling, but it is a delusion which afibrds me happiness to indulge in,
and I am gi-owing day by day more interested in his welfare. W. H. M.
A Kingston paper notices the arrival of the Government officials at
Kingston. They are composed of the Hon. H. Killaly, President of the
Board of Works ; Colonel Forbes, Commander of the Forces ; Colonel
Mackenzie Fraz,er, Deputy Adjudant General of Militia ; Hon. John Mc
Cauley, Inspector General ; A. V. Hawk, Emigration Agent. His Excel
lency was still detained at Montreal by an attack of gout.
pj This was soon followed by a notice of the meeting of Parliament, which
took place on the 1 5th of June. The Gazette of the day previous con
tained one or two additions to the Cabinet, and a list of twenty -four Legis
lative Councillors, noticeable for the paucity of French — equal to four, and
the number of Scotch — indicated by the prefix "Mac."
The Governor's speech notices McCloud's continued imprisonment, and
the measures taken by the Government to procure his release. It notices
a reduction of postage across the Atlantic; the guarantee of the Imperial
credit for one and a half millions sterling, the multiplication of municipal
bstitutions, and the extension of education by means of common schools,
and closes thus : " The determination which I am also empowered to state
on the part of the Government^ to devote annually a large sum for the deg
tence of the Province, and the fixed determination that the North Ameri
can Provinces shall be maintained at all hazards ; also that Her Majesty's
Government are pleased to assist in facilitating the passage of the emigrant
from tne port at which he is landed to the place where his labor may be
made available."

238
On the opening of the House of Parliament, one of our subject's
first acts was to second the motion, which was made by Mr. Cu-vilier,
that Mr. Morin should be the Speaker of the new House, thereby paying a
compliment to his fellow subjects from Lower Canada. He also advo
cated a measure, having for its object, the maintainanceT>f the poor, by the
inhabitants of each township. He also brought on again Ms plan for a
National Bank, in which he pleaded for the interests of the people, that the
proflts of banking, which had now reached over $2,000,000, might be made
of use to the country, in public works, instead of going into the pockets of
private individuals. The bill was again defeated by a small majority, and
he never afterwards sought to revive it. He also advocated an Alien bill, ¦
whereby flve years residence in the Province constituted citizenship, and
successfully carried it by a large majority. He again drew the attention of
the House to the question of the inland navigation.
In. a debate on the speech, which lasted for nine days, Mr. Merritt was
" surprised at what he had heard (from Mr. Draper.) To retain office -with
a majority of the House against them, was persisting in managing the
country contrary to the wishes of it. This would be only a protrac
tion of the injury, and he hoped that Ministers would state expressly
whether that is to be the system of Lord Sydenham or not."
Mr. Draper closed the debate by saying that they would resign if op
posed by a majority.
One of his constituent's opinions on these proceedings is as follows :
"Saint Davids, June 28th, 1841.
" My Dear Sir — I again take the liberty of addressing you a few
lines, that you may understand that your friends are thinking and feehng
anxious to know the result of the session.
"Your proceedings so far, I think, have given pietty general satisfaction
to all parties. I see you have drawn the Attorney General out. You were
right. It was mysterious. Why not come out at once. I care not a cop
per for his professions, let us see what Ms actions will be on all matters of
importance. It may be policy for him and the Governor General, if they
do not mean right, to mystify ; but I hope that is not the case. You must
be on the alert. Your country is -watching you, and I trust they will
have no reason to complain. I am sorry to see the Reformers disagi'ee
on small points. The question about an adjournment, I think, was
not worth debating on. It tended to weaken the party. To try the real
ity of tbe men, the question must be something that the country has more
interest in. The news here is, that after carrying your amendments to His
Excellency's speech, he sent for you the same night. The next mormng
you brought in other amendments to do away with your former ones. I
hardly credited that. We o^ly receive the news weekly. I may be far
behind the proceedings of the day. Give His Excellency all the assist
ance you can, but guard the rights and privileges ofthe people. Try and
make this a strong and happy cotintry as it was formerly. All that is
wanted is that liberality that every Government ought to bestow on its

239
guVjects. I am aware this is your feeling, and I hope that shoijld ypu
not accomplish that, you will not fetter the Province with your consent.
I hope Mr. Baldwin will still be the leader of the party. Let me hear
from you soon. " Your obedient, humble servant,
"RICHARD WOODRUFF.
"W. H. Merritt, Esq., Kingston."
On the 7th July, Mr. Merritt published a letter to the stockholders of
the Welland Canal, stating that the Royal assent had been given to the
act, which we have already detailed, for purchasing from the stockholders
by the Government, showing the advantage of the measure and calling for
acquiescence thereto.
A reprint of the report of the Committee on the Bank Bill, dated
April 13th, 1835, was given in the JoMrwa; of April 29th. It takes up seven
or eight columns, -with another . of editorial in its favour ; but failing to
become a Government measure, much to the disappointment of our subject
and friends, the country was deprived of the profits of banking.
Mr. Hincks brought in a bill to abolish the Usury Law, which we can
not but think, though of temporary profit, as tending not a little to the
periodical depression of trade and the failure of indi-viduals.
The resignation of the Hon. R. Baldwin, at this period, re-yived for a
tinie, the old animosities, and our subject in an able speech, pointed out the
advisability of quietly proceeding with business, rather than waste time
in stirring up unpleasant discussions. His advice seems to have been
adopted, as a better feeling soon prevailed. Some of the best measures of
the govfernment he permitted to pass unchallenged, but the measures of
granting large sums all over the country, on plank roads, and other politi
cal favors, he bitterly attacked, and succeeded in beating the Government
on the question. His anxiety to have the Cornwall canal opened caused a
grant of a million and a half dollars to be given towards that object.
The pj-oceedings of the House terminated on the 19th Sept, by Lord
Sydenham being thrown from his horse, from which accident he never ral-
hed. After his burial the members returned home.
Mr. Merritt proceeded to New "lork, and had an irtei^view with the
stockholders regarding the best disposition of their property, and a liberal
offer being made to our subject, he agreed, on communing with his family
to undertake to do their business for them in London, the great monetary
centre. The remaining incidents of this year were the attempt about the 28th
October, to blow up the Big Level lock at Thorold, and the release of Mc-
Cloud from Msl long imprisonment.
The Jowrnal has again turned to the mild direction of the faithful
and scrupulously correct editor and printer, Hiram Leavenworth, and

240
though we do not see so many political articles on Church and State as
during Mr. Sears' occupancy of the editorial chair, yet the course of events
is sufficiently depicted in its pages to present " the mould and figure of the
times." News was received, headed very important, that the Queen had given
birth to a Princess ; that St. Jean D'Acre was captured ; the Chinese -war
still progressing; the States' people were succeeding in Texas, and that our
own fellow-subject, Alexander McCloud, was still a tenant of Lockport jail
for participating in the Carolina affair.
As a sign of the insecurity of the times, especially in the matter (rf
horse property, we notice the formation of a " vigilance society," com
posed of John Gilliland, J. Wright, Alexander Wilson, Joseph Godfrey,
Samuel Hill, Thomas Oxbury, H. Mittelberger, 'Wm. Chase, Sam. Harris,
John Soper, John Clark, A. K. Boomer, J. Clendenning and D. P. Haines.
Mr. Merritt issued an address to the freeholders of the county of Lin
coln, dated September 23d, which says : " Gentlemen — The first session (rf
the first United Parliament has closed, £45,000 being granted to the com
mon schools and £1,500,000 for connecting our inland waters -with the
Atlantic. Lower Canadian members are entitled to your gratitude, for to
their noble and disinterested conduct are we indebted for ready access to
the sea. Notwithstanding the heavy debt they have already assumed,
and the very great disproportion of expenditure in this section, they
voted to a man fbr the completing of the Welland and St. Lawrence canals,
Eighty-eight bills have passed, but fifteen, including the Municipal BUI,
reserved. Confidence has been established., the prosperity of Canada com
menced, and the stability of the Union being ceinented by the harmony
and good feeling which prevailed among the members "from the different
part of the Union."
The result of the first session's work was satisfactory to most of the in
habitants, including the distant members on the sea-board, who vied with
theii- fellow British Americans on the borders of the St. Lawrence as being
the originators of colonial independence. In this we think they were mis
taken. \
The report which contained the principles on which our future "ovem-
nient was to be carried on, but for the results of which, neither our subject
nor any native of this country is in the slightest degree responsible " was
subversive of the existing institutions of the colony and as much a revolution
as if the rebels themselves had succeeded.
It was followed by the annexation manifesto in 1859, on the return
of Mr. McKenzie, which our subject had also au influence in putting down
The result of this policy on his future usefulness, -will appear as we proceed
One object for diminishing power was multiplying its depositories; and

241
mumcipal institutions were not giving the colonies the management of their
own affairs, but rather tended to reconcile them to an administration
entirely opposed to British American interests.
Towards the end of the year the elections for municipal councillors
occupied the columns of the newspapers. The Journal says : " There are
twenty-eight Councillors for Niagara district — quite a small Parliament in
its way." TMs was about the number of townships, the expense of
which at the time was £3,447. The number of councillors and the ex
penses have about increased in equal proportions. The question will sug
gest itself — have the advantages been commensurate with the cost ? They
assembled under the leadership of Mr. Thorburn, Mr. Rykert taking an
active part in the representation of Grantham.
The appropriation being adequate, work was at once commenced on the
oanal, numerous stone cutters, masons, and laborers employed. Mr. Merritt,
as usual, was elated with the proposed improvements, which proceeded tri
umphantly to the final success of his scheme. He was in daily communi
cation -with all parts of the work, and gave it his unceasing attention while
in the neighborhood.
During the year 1841 a large portion of his time had been spent in superin
tending the works on the Canal, particularly along the Feeder — which was
intended to be enlarged to the full size of the Canal, so that vessels pass
ing through it during the time that the works were going on at Port Colborne
would not obstruct the passage in that direction. And on the setting in of
winter he made preparations to leave for England on important business
connected with finance, politics, free trade, the negotiation of Govemment
debentures, kc, as well as to make arrangements towards placing his
sons, the author and William, in the University. " Albany, October 12, 1841.
" My Dear Son — You expressed a desire to visit England -with me, on
my leaving home, and on reflection, as this is most probably the last time I
may ever have an opportunity to cross the Atlantic, I have decided that
you and your brother may accompany me.
"W. H. MERRITT."
Our subject, as well as his correspondents, considered it of the utmost
importance — now that the disposition of the revenue was all under one
Legislature — that the public in Lower Canada should be acquainted -with
the beneflt the improvements of the navigation of the St. Lawrence in West-
tern Canada would be to the country at large, as well as the all-absorbing
subject of local self-government in which the American colonies were equally
interested. Previous to departing he received the following from his friends James
Holmes and Joseph Howe, who had been visiting there the same autumn ;

242 "Halifax, Oct. 7, 1841. •
"My Dear Sir — I received your favor of the 18th September a few
days ago, and was glad to find that you were well satisfied with the results
of the session. I have watched the proceedings narrowly, and have been,
on the whole, most pleased and gratified with what has been done and said,
always excepting the weakness and twaddle with which the campaign was
opened * * * There need be no fears of Executive responsi
bility. You would have had it in full perfection, had you ever mustered a
majority to beat the Government and with common principles and union to
form anotlier. Here, nobody dreams of the old stalking horse of a minority
government — the thing is absurd, and the few who cling to the idea are re
garded as old Waterloo soldiers, or some dreamers of times gone past. Mrs.
Howe begs me to present her respects, and thank you for all your attention.
I am right glad to find that the great St. Lawrence liver improvements are
to be vigorously dealt with. You deserve great credit for your persever
ance, and I trust will reap some profit as well as honor by your exertions.
With best respects to all friends, believe me, " Yours tmly,
"JOSEPH HOWE.
" W. Hamilton Merritt." "iloNTREAL, 23d November, 1841.
" Dear Sir — I received your letter, dated the 8th inst., only a few days
since. Where it has been in the meantime I cannot say. The communi
cation for publication, enclosed in it, you will find in the Herald, which is
the paper enjoying most influence and the greatest circulation here. I shall
probably follow it up by publishing your " P^eport," and by observations.
If you have any to send me I shall be able to get insertion for them in the
Herald or some other joui-nal. Can you send me any back numbers ofthe
St, Catharines J ou7-nal vfhich contain observations on your great object"!
If you can, do so, as it is a difficult thing to write with effect about what one
really understands but little. I am. " Yours very cordially,
"JAMES HOLMES.
"Hamilton Merritt, Esq., St. Catharines,"
The following he received from his father-in-law in answer to his letter
regarding the education of his son William, which we commend to the study
of our embryo politicians of the present day :
Mayville, December 14th, 1841,
My Dear Sir: — I received yours of the 12th of October, dated at
Albany, in which you observed you were about to go to England on busi
ness of the stockholders of the Welland Canal,
" So you wish William to possess a knowledge of politics and legislation,
as well as law. Politics and legislation are only to be obtained by the
society of politicians, and in the legislative hall. The laws of particular
governments and national law are taught in seminaries of leaming, and con
stitute a branch of leaming which is very necessary to qualify a man for a
politician and for the legislative hall. But still the great field for that study
is not in seminaries of learning, but is obtained by the knowledge acquired

243
by the study of the interests of nations, and that particularly of our own
and neighboring countries. Those interests will be found to be and ought
to be the governing motives to all action between nations. It would be no
difficult matter to form laws in conformity with those interests if the legis
lative body would act in concert. But here you are met by a thousand sec
tional and personal interests, clashing with the interests of the government
or state, and nine times out of ten these interests are mere pretenses to cover
some selfish design, and for this cause it becomes , more difficult to discover
and unveil the motives of these men than to discover and manage the inter
ests of government. The subject of politics and legislation, and the im
proper motives of men in opposition — their intrigues and designs, which
would subvert the ends of all fair legislation, I might have omitted, these
being superfluous to inform one who requires no light on these subjects.
" With sentiments of great regard,
" Yours,
" JEDEDIAH PRENDERGAST.
" W. Hamilton Merritt."
Mr. M. -wrote to the Chief Justice, who had just returned from England
for an introduction to some of his influential friends there. The "Chief"
makes this an opportunity to read him a lecture not to take advantage of the
Canal stockholders, and closes, with regard to Lord Stanley : " I should
not feel it agreeable to address him except officially." Our subject demands
explanations, whence appears the following. Without saying that persons
in public employment should not occasionally enter into stock-jobbing, it is
to be wished that the standard of public morality and honor was erected on
a similar level in these days : "Toronto, Dec. 7, 1841.
"My Dear Sir : — I have just received your letter of yesterday. You
do not mention on what day you intend setting out ; and I am therefore
doubtful whether this will reach you or not. I lose no time, however, in
writing to you, because I am anxious that there should be no misunder
standing between us on the subject to which it chiefly relates. There can
be few persons, if any, who have had a better opportunity than I have had
to judge of your conduct and motives in regard to the Welland Canal, and
I need not tell you that I have never looked upon you as actuated by any
other than the best motives in giving up, as you have done, the greater part
of your life to the promotion of that work. I fully believe you to have been
disinterested in all the efforts you have made to forward it, and you are well
'aware that I have on many occasions publicly borne my testimony to that
effect, when I found your motives and character unjustly attacked ; and in
private I have done so thousands of times when you, of course, have known
notMng of it. My opinion in that respect is not in the slightest degree
changed. That you have always done all you could to guard the interest of
the absent stockholders is quite well known to me, and I did and do sincerely
trust that you will continue to act in the same manner towards them, by
making them aware of the situation in which they really now stand. I
confessed that hope in my letter, and it was the persuasion of my mind that
you would. But, I will be quite candid with you, and state precisely what

244
I meant by writing as I did. Nobody had said one word to me about your
-visit to England, or the probable object of it. No one had given the remot
est hint to me that they suspected you were bent upon any speculation con
nected with the Canal ; but I do know that lately some persons have become
alive to the real value of the Welland Canal stock, while the assurances
which the act holds out of future advantages, and that stock has been bought
up at a good speculation. I am well aware that the debentures are to open
for the actual amount of each person's stock at par, bearing interest as the
act provides, but what I feel anxious about is that the English stockholders
should be put on their guard and made to reflect that the debentures will
be really worth much more than their accruing amount by the certainty the
act affords of the back interest being ultimately paid. If you think they
are sure of coming to the knowledge of this, without any pains being taken
to explain it, I think you are mistaken, because I know that -within a fort
night stock has been sold here at par, which of course involves a needless
loss of all the back interest. This has made me apprehend that if such a
speculation could be carried on here, upon the spot where the best means of
information exist, it is more likely that the same thing could be done -with
the stockholders in England, and I should be extremely sorry to hear that
such men as Mr. Blacow, after having lost the use of their money for years,
should be induced hastily to accept an offer which, very probably, before this
time has been made to them, and which precludes all possibility of then-
being ever indemnified for what up to this time they have lost. I hoped
that your going ho-me might prevent this, and so I said in my letter. At
the same time I confess it did occur to me as possible, though I did not think
it probable, that you might make an offer for the stock of any who might
choose to sell and might acquire it, and I should have deeply regretted if
you had erred in judgment so much as to do it, because though you might
have considered the transaction in no way blamable, it would have received
the worst constiuction. I felt that it would be taken as a confirmation of
what I had heard many times stated to your prejudice, and what you well
know I have again and again contradicted, staking my own reputation upon
the purity of your motives. Anything of that kind, however openly you
might have acted, would v/ith mankind in general have wholly destroyed
the claim which 3"0u now have to be regarded as the person who has prac
tically conferred the most important benefit upon this country. If you
took it that I had heard one word said about your having any such inten
tion you are wholly in error. You are equally in error if you supposed that
I believed that to be your object. On the contrary I really did hope, as I
said, that your visit to England would be made to answer exactly the oppo
site purpose. But, I freely confess a fear crossed me that you might fall
into an error, and I meant that my letter should in some measure have the
effect it has had, though I did not think you would take it exactly in the
sense you have done,
" As to my own trifiing amount of stock, I should always have disposed
of it at par from the time of my becoming a Judge, because every now and
then something was coming up in the court in which I presided and in which
the Company were more or less concerned, although the interest was too
minute to be talked of. I need not tell you that we live in an ill-natured
world, and I should always have been better pleased at being free, as I

245
ought to be, of all direct pecuniary interest in the Company. As soon as I
was told of a person who would give £200 for my stock I did not hesitate
to part with it. But I shall never feel less interest in the work than I have
done, nor take less pleasure in seeing those who have supported it satisfac
torily rewarded. " I am, my dear sir,
" Yours very truly,
" JOHN B. ROBINSON."
No people on earth understood the business of stock-jobbing better than
the people of England, and those from whom Mr. Merritt had obtained stock,
¦with one or two exceptions, were bankers and capitalists of the flrst stand
ing in the City of London, the Minister of Liverpool baing an exception.
There was more danger that the holders in Quebec and New York would
fail to get the advantage of the Imperial guarantee, than the British share
holders. Fortunately at this period the following letter was received in reply to
the Judge's surmises : " Liverpool, No. 25 Nile Street, Nov. 17, 1841.
" My Dear Sir : — I have had the pleasure and satisfaction of reoei-ving
your gratifying letter of the 27th inst,, stating, as it does, that the property
so long embarked by the private shareholders in the Welland Canal, and for
years considered in so much jeopardy, will at length be^redeemed, and still
more gratifying that I may so soon have tha pleasure of seeing you and your
sons in Liverpool. Your intimation, too, of a future bonus for tha hazard
they incurred in lending their aid to so noble a work, which must ultimately
prove of such immense benefit to the Province, bespeaks a continuance of
those liberal feelings you have always manifested in their behalf.
"I trust our new Ministry will give every encouragement to emigration,
as nothing would so essentially conduce to the welfare of the country. It
would at once relieve us from the burden of our poor rates, and soon form
an outlet for all our manufactures. In fact, it would make us independent
of the whole world. Wo could get all we want from our own Colonies, and
supply them with everything needful for themselves, and thus form a bond
of union that would be mutually beneficial.
" Believe me, my dear sir,
" Very sincerely yours,
" RICHARD BLACOW."
Before leaving St. Catharines, his fellow-townsmen waited upon Mm, and
offered him a public dinner, which, owing to the short time at his disposal,
he was compelled to decline. He left on the 27th December, after spending
the Christmas at his father's, and joined his sons in New York.

246
1842.
They embarked on the 20th January, in the good ship " Columbiis," for
Liverpool, where they arrived after a favorable trip of twenty-one days, land
ing on the nth February, and put up at the Grecian Hotel. They spent
a few days in Liverpool, seeing tha great docks and other wonders. Here
he left his sons to amuse themselves, and proceeded to London. He occu
pied his old quarters. No. 19 Bury Street, where in 1828 he was a fellow-
lodger with Thomas Moore, the poet, the house being a great resort for
British American travellers.
He soon had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Gordon, his brother-in-law,
in whose care he placed his sons, as his own time would be fully occupied.
Whilst on shipboard he matured a number of commumcations to Lord
Stanley, then Colonial Secretary, on the subject of admitting Canadian pro
duce into England duty free. In these letters he fully explained the in
justice done to Canada in this matter, by ta.xing the industry of a people
who were striving to extend her empire, whilst they at the same time were
receiving the bulk of their goods from the production of the parent State.
He also visited many of his old associates, Messrs. Gladstone, Goul
borne, Smith, Buller, Pemberton, Bosanquet, Cubett and others, to whom
was imparted a great deal of information in reference to Canada, and also
attended some of the public entertainments, one in particular, held m the
London Tavem, at which we flnd that he made a speech.
He attended the Imperial Parliament, which assembled on the 3rd inst.
The following is some of the correspondence from officials, and Members
of Parliament : "Whitehall, Feb. 15.
" Sir : — I am directed by Mr. Wm. E. Gladstone to acknowledge the re
ceipt of your note this morning, and to thank you for the opportumty which
you offer him of ascertaining your opinion on the subject of his Resolutions
respecting the duty on the importation of corn into Canada. Mr. Glad
stone will be at liberty to see you to-morrow, the 16th inst., at three o'clock.
" I am, sir,
" Your obedient servant,
" RAWSON W. RAWSON.
" W. Hamilton Merritt, Esq."
" Downing Street, Feb. 18, 1842.
" Sir : — In reply to your letter of the 17th, I am desired by the Chan
cellor of the Exchequer to state that he will be happy to see you on Monday
next at one o'clock. I am, sir,
" Your very obedient servant,
" RAWSON W. RAWSON-
" W. H. Merritt, Esq."

247
"No. '9 Chapel Street, Belgrave Square, Feb. 19, 1842.
" Sir : — Having been informed by Mr. C. Franks and by Mr. Gillespie
that you are specially interested on behalf of Canada in the question relat
ing to the free admission of Colonial grain into the British markets, it
would give me much pleasure to see you previous to my motion in the
House of Commons for a reduction of the duty to one shilling per qUarter.
I am almost always at home till about two o'clock, and if convenient to you
to call before that hour I shall feel very much obliged by your allowing me
to see you at No. 9 Chapel street, or I will call upon you on any day you
may appoint between the hours of four and five o'clock in the afternoon.
" If you have any memoranda which you think tend to elucidate the
subject, or if any point speedily suggests itself to you as worthy of notice, I
shall be very glad to give them my best attention.
" I have the honor to be,
" Your obedient servant,
" WILLIAM T. O'BRIEN.
"W. H. Merritt, Esq."
" Mr. Gladstone moved for imposing a duty upon Colonial produce, which
went mto effect, and Mr. O'Brien's amendment was lost.
" Whitehall, Feb. 22, 1842.
" Sir :— I am directed by Mr. Wm. E. Gladstone to acknowledge with
his best thanks your letter of the 18th inst., upon the subject of the proposed
measure for regulating the trade of the Colonies, as it affects Canadian
interests. I am, sir,
" Your obedient servant,
" RAWSON. W. RAWSON.
" W. H. Merritt, Esq."
" Do"wning Street, Feb. 25, 1842.
" Sir : I am directed by Lord Stanley to acknowledge the receipt of the
letters which you addressed to his Lordship on the 21st inst., respecting the
expediency of allowing Canadian corn to be imported into this country duty
free, and to convey to you his lordship's thanks for those communications.
" I have the honor to be, sir,
" Your most obedient humble servant,
" G. W. HOPE.
" W. Hamilton Merritt, Esq." "Whitehall, March 1,1842.
"Sirs: Mr. Wm. E. Gladstone presents his compliments to Mr. Merritt and
Mr. Williams, and has the honor to acquaint them, in reply to their note of
this morning, that it is not intended to propose any duty upon the importa
tion of wheat into Canada. " Yours respectfully,
" W. E. GLADSTONE.
" W. H. Merritt and Mr. Williams, Esq's."
" Do-wning Street, March 3rd, 1842.
" Sir :— I am directed by Lord Stanley to acknowledge the receipt of your
letter of the 22d ult., and to thank you for the information conveyed to him
by that and your other communications.
" With respect to the intentions of Her Majesty's Government on the sub
ject of the trade in corn both from the United States into Canada, and from

248
Canada to Great Britain, Lord Stanley desires me to state that, after the dis
cussions which have recently taken place in the House of Commons, he feels
it unnecessary to enter into details, but is happy to be able to refer to those
discussions, as showing that it is from no indisposition to promote to the utmost
of their ability to do so, consistently with other considerations, the interests of
Canada, that Her Majesty's Government must decline at present to accede to
the proposal of an unrestricted importation of corn from thence to Great Britain.
" I have the honor to be, sir,
" Your most obedient servant,
" G. W. HOPE.
" W. H. Merritt, Esq."
After lea-ving the matter for the consideration of the Ministry, he at length
found time to attend to his sons.
On the 8 th of March he went to Cambridge University, where he placed
his son Jedediah. Being furnished with letters of introduction, he was in
vited by the Society of Fellows, and dined with the since celebrated Dr.
Colenzo and Mr, Paley, and the magnates of St, John's College.
" London, March 26, 1842.
" Mt Dear Catharine : — Your affectionate and most admirable letter
ofthe 6th February reached me this day. Mr. Gordon will enclose it on Mon
day, as I leave in the morning to join William at Paris. I went to Cam
bridge on the ,Jth with Jedediah, expecting he would obtain an entrance next
October. He was examined in Greek, Latin, Algebra, and Arithmetic —
passed, obtained a certificate, procured his cap and gown and dined in the Hall
the same day, by which be has gained a term. Mention this to the Rev. Mr.
Atkinson, and say to Mr. A. if my means will admit he shall have the silver
service. I have been pricing at a number of places, but the price is much the
same. I go over for the purpose of seeing William properly settled, and will
be absent about a fortnight. With regard to business, everything is getting
on as well as I anticipated. The Government have overlooked the Colonies
in their great commercial and financial transactions, and all parties interested in
the Colonies here, which are, however, few, appear dissatisfied. For my own
part, I feel that the basis has been laid for our future prosperity, and expect
before the close of another session to see the products of Canada admitted into
the ports of the mother country free from duty. Sir Allan McNab
called on me last night. He came over in the Oxford packet, byway of Que
bec, Boston and New York. Give my love to all our relatives and friends,
particularly father and mother, who I hope may be spared te meet us again
in this world. We are all hastening through it; and I cannot but remark
how changed my feelings are since 1828 — fourteen years. Then, I had an
inclination to see everything; now, I would not give a straw to see anything.
I have not been inside of a theatre or spent one penny in sight seeing. Per
haps I may have mora curiosity in Paris, as everything will be new. Mr.
Gordon spends the evening with me generally when I don't dine out. Charles
Merritt accompanies me to France. " Your affectionate husband,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
He sent his son William on to Paris, in order to observe a little of the
grandeur of this gayest of cities, where he afterwards joined him. From

249
Paris they proceeded to Strasbourg, thence to Heidelberg, where he had
introductions, and thence to Bonn — in whose splendid university he placed
his son — and retumed to London.
" No. 6 Burt Street, St. James, April 16, 1842.
" Mt Dear Son : — Having arrived this evening, I take the earliest oppor
tunity to give you a brief outline of my proceedings since my last letter. After
leaving this, in company with Charles Merritt, had a pleasant sail down the
Thames, crossed the Channel, and arrived at Boulougne the same day, or by
ten o'clock at night. In one day and night arrived by diligence to Paris, pass
ing through a country devoid of interest. On my arrival in Paris, I had
some difficulty in finding William's hotel, in consequence of his negligence in
forming his letters, reading Hotel Parent, which was unknown or did not exist
(I notice this as a hint for yourself) After finding the hotel, I found he had
commenced his studies with a French teacher ; sent for him, and spant one we.3k
in selecting a suitable place for him to return to, having made up my mind to
accompany him to Germany. He will live in the family of a Professor of Law,
Francois Coquille, at 130 francs per month, and be under the direction of Mr.
Destreus, Avocat, a la Cour Royal, No. 6 Place Dauphine, who will giva him
lessons or direct his studies in the civil law. 1 will bdng William's journal for
your perusal, to which I refer for a description of Paris. Passed the prov
inces of Champaisne, Lorraine, and Alsace, through a beautiful country, but
between Paris and the first the country is sterile and bears the appearance of
poverty. On Tuesday, the 5th inst., Ic^t Paris in a diligence for Strasbourg
on the Rhine, a place noted for its Cathedral or Minster, said to be one of
the noblest Gothic edifices in Europe, with the highest spire in the world, 474
feet above the pavement, 140 feet higher than St. Paul's and 24 feet higher
than the great pyramid in Egypt. From Strasbourg we descended the Rhine,
passing Spires, Worms, and many ancient towns, until we reached Mayence,
thence took a railroad to Frankfort. On our arrival found there was no uni
versity and no place suitable, therefore procured letters for Heidelberg, but
meeting with the Rev. Mr. Harvey, was recommended by bin and other Eng
lish gentlemen to first visit Bonn, the University where Prince Albert received
his education. Followed their advice and arrived there without letters or in
troduction from any person, except a note from a friend of Mr. Harvey's to a
Professor Sumner, who he once met by chance. Returned to Mayence, thence
down the Rhine to Bonn, which part embraces the most picturesque scenery
on that celebrated river, but I will not attempt a description but refer you to
." Murray's Hand Book " for a brief and good account. You will make your
self familiar with those places before you see them. Found no difficulty on ray
arrival. Doctor Sumner, Professor of Theology, a Protestant minister, was
extremely kind, as all the German gentlemen we met were, and in two days
succeeded in placing William with the family of Alfred Nicoloiious, Professor
of Law. He married a lady from Berlin, neither of whom can speak English.
He has only two small children, and consented to take him in consideration of
his being a foreigner and unprotected. The expense will be £80 par year.
Although a strict examination is instituted before a native is admitted, no ex
amination is necessary for a foreigner. At 18 he enters this University, has
free access to the library and the benefit of lectures on every science, and they
have the most eminent men in Prussia at the head of each, so say English resi
dents. If a young man desires to learn he will have every opportunity ; if not,

250
they will not be ^rged. The students live where they please. I thought it
most advisable to place William first in Germany, because I should feel better
satisfied in seeing the people with whom he would reside in both places. A
German is a secondary consideration, by learning it first he will sooner forget
it than French, which will be the most recently impressed on his memory. He
will commence his French lessons as soon as he can speak the German and un
derstand it ; and I wish to make his stay in Paris as short as possible. Left
Mm on Tuesday la.st, and returned by way of Cologne, Aix La Chapelle, Liege,
Brussels, Ghent, Bruges and Ostend, after visiting Waterloo. It is my inten
tion to pay you a visit before I leave, which cannot be before the I5th of May,
and we will then consult respecting a tour through that country, the ensuing
year, during your long vacation. If I can afford it I will give you the oppor
tunity, as it will not only be highly interesting, but beneficial to your health.
By that time William will thoroughly understand French, English, and Ger
man, and he has a great anxiety to visit Switzerland. Some gentlemen are
much in the habit of travelling on foot, particularly Englishmen. I came
over with a young officer of the 85th, who travelled through Bavaria, Switz
erland, and Italy, with two others, one a German ; was absent three months
and only expended £25, and a part of the way took diligence and visited
theatres and public places. At the same time I found travelling quite as dear
there or more so than in America. With a hope of hearing from you shortly
" I remain, " Your affectionate father,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
On his return to London his first business was with the Ministry, as
will be seen by this note ; " Whitehall, May 17, 1842.
" Sir : — I am directed by Mr. W. E. Gladstone to acknowledge the
receipt of your letter of yesterday, upon the subject of the proposed clause
in the British Possessions Trade Bill, by which the free importation of
certain articles for the use of the Fisheries is permitted,
" The Government is sensible that objections may lie against the system
of exemptions, but as it has found them established in this instance in favor
of a particular branch of industry, it does not feel itself justified in inter
fering with them. I am, sir,
"Your obedient servant,
"RAWSON W. RAWSON.
" W. Hamilton Merritt."
The following appeared in the Journal of the 14th of April, being in
time to reach our subject before his mission was closed. To realize the grati
fication and encouragement this was likely to supply, we must consider Mr.
Merritt was without a Government appointment. His appeals for adequate
introduction, necessar)"- to smooth the way for the self-appointed envoy, were
but partially responded to, and serious discouragements thrown in his way
during its progress :
" We have been favored with a communication from Mr. Merritt, now
in London. This indefatigable friend of his country is at the present mo
ment laboring hard at the seat of the Imperial Government for the welfare
of Canada.

251
" Steady to the principles of reform and free trade, he is holding on the
" even tenor of his way," and will, no doubt, persevere in his laudable iinder-
takmgs so long as he continues in public life.
" The country in general, and St. Catharines in particular, are deeply
indebted to his energy and legislative wisdom.
" It is devoutly to be wished that his valuable life may be spared to be
an increasing blessing to the province, and that when his face shall be again
turned towards his kindred and this western world he maybe favored with
gentle gales and propitious skies as the means of conducting Mm in safety
to the scenes most dear to his heart."
He then immediately obtained the royal sanction to the Niagara
District Bank Charter, but failed in the most important part, because a
double responsibility had been inserted in their charter, viz., obtain
ing stockholders in the Bank. He also communicated with the leading
capitalists with reference to the debentures, which he deposited with Glyn,
Mills k Co., from whom he received authority to draw upon them for the
amount, which answered as well as their actual sale in this case.
" No. 6 Bury Street, St. James, May 10, 1842.
" Gentlemen : — The Provincial Legislature of United Canada, during
their last session, authorized the purchase of the private shares held in the
Welland Canal Company by issuing debentures, payable in twenty years
at the office of the Receiver General in Canada, at an interest of two per
cent, for the first two years, three, four, five and six per cent, up to the sixth
year, and thereafter at the same rate. The Receiver General will make
these bonds out for any amount , required, and remit the interest to any
house in London at the usual rate of exchange. I am authorized to dis
pose of about £70,000 in these bonds.
" I will thank you to inform me if you will make an offer for these
bonds, if not, what you think they would command in this market if a sale
was forced of the same, arid in what manner you would recommend them
to be altered, and on what terms you would dispose of them when so
altered. " I am, gentlemen, " Your obedient servant,
" W. H, M."
From the metropolis the proceeded to Cambridge, and the summer
holidays permitting, proceeded with the author on an extended tour through
Scotland, England, and Ireland. In Scotland they visited the Court of
General Sessions, which took the place of the old Parliament, and heard the
celebrated Dr. Chalmers deliver an able address on the Kirk Secession,
afterwards the Free Church, which was then exciting the people of
Scotland. After seeing Edinburgh and its ancient monuments they went
by rail to Glasgow, where they visited the manufactories of that rising city,
and from thence by steamboat to Belfast, and though late in May, in passing
Dumbarton and the Highlands, they observed the hills covered with snow ;
also seeing Ailsa Craig and the many seaside beauties of North Britain.

252
As Americans, they were surprised at the long evening twilight, which
always seems strange to the visitor from more Southern countries. They
found Belfast a large and prosperous city, and whilst there they called on
the friends of Mr. Boomer, before mentioned as connected with Mr. M.'s
family ; also, the Clarks, at Armagh. Wishing to see the inhabitants, of
whom he had seen so much on the Canal, he visited a number of the cot
tagers, and took notes of their circumstances and position in life. Going
southward they visited Drogheda, and travelled through the romantic and
historic country of the Boyne, and finally reached Dublin after a very agree
able journey. They put up at an hotel in Sackville Street, and spent a few
days in visiting the principal sights, including tha old University of Trimty
Collage, where many of his Canadian Irish friends had graduated ; also, St.
Patrick's Cathedral. They were very much pleased, and hospitably enter
tained, and on leaving by steamer for Liverpool were delighted with the
sublime scenery of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. Arriving in
Liverpool, in time to take the mail steamship, " Great Britain," which was
going to New York, leaving his son to return to Cambridge, he took pass
age home, and arrived safe in twenty days, which was considered a wonder
ful fast passage at the time.
On his arrival at New York, the first news he heard was of the death of
his uncle and early patron, Nehemiah Merritt, Esq., of St. Johns, N. B.
After a hasty interview with bis New York fiiends who were interested iu
the financial object of his mission, he left at once for St. Johns.
During his absence another new Governor, Sir Charles Bagot, the fifth
in as many years, had arrived in the country, followed by a special envoy.
Lord Ashburton, who came to settle the Boundary question.
The Canal had opefted on the 18th of April, and we notice that for the
first time a steam vessel had passed through the Canal to Oswego, and one
from St. Thomas to Montreal, although the Cornwall Canal was not yet
quite completed. This was looked upon as a great feat and augured well
for tha future.
The death of his uncle was not tha only sad event which awaited him,
as he also heard that his venerable and respected father had also passed
away at tha ripe old age of eighty -two. Although in apparent good health
when our subject left, yet, after a short illness he died on the 12th of May,
highly esteemed by all, and deeply regretted. His memoirs were drawn
up by Mr. George Coventry, and deposited with those of other early settlers
in the archives of the Province.
As our subject was daily expected back from England, we find in the
Journal of June 30 that steps were immediately taken and an influential
committee of his fellow townsmen appointed for the purpose of making Mm
a handsome present, as a mark of their appreciation of his conduct. And

253
although several of his political opponents industriously circulated the story
that the affair was got up by his own family, it is needless to add that it
was groundless, and in accordance with his fixed ideas on the duty of a
public man, he firmly yet thankfully refused to be the recipient of any
testimonial. Immediately after his return home, there appeared a letter to George
Adams, President of the Agricultural Society, in which he says :
" Sir :— From the distinguished situation which you have, long held in
this District, you 'appear to be the most direct and appropriate channel through
which any communication to the public on any subject relating to that
branch of industry can be made."
In this famil-'ir i he notices the various addresses
to the Imperial Parliament for an adequate protection against foreign pro
ducts, when oaio are admitted without duty; and if we cannot, on these terms
sufficiently compete with foreigners, we have no right to complain. It is both
unreasonable and unjust to require our fellow subjects in Britain to impose
any duty on the articles they consume for our benefit. He then relates the
history ofthe measure in an address to the Legislature, fifth March, 1834, p.
149 of this work .
He quotes the speech in the Imperial Parliament, bearing on the subject
by .Sir Robert Peel, that Canada must be treated as an integral part of the
British empire. That to accomplish this desirable object, they should remove
all duties in Britain of the growth of Canada, and all duties on any article
manufactured in Britain; and extend the coasting trade in the remotest part
of Canada .
He advises patience with the Home Government desirous of imposing any
duty on our products for the purpose of revenue : as the effect will be to give
the Canadian grower the full benefit of the market of the mother country as
well as our own.
If our readers can remember the remarks made on page 149, they will
find how persistently he pursued this subject, and also see that during his
late visit he pressed the subject on the Imperial Government in such a man
ner as to evoke from Sir R. Peel the remark, " that Canada must in effect
be treated as though she was an integral part of the empire," as well a dis
patch being received by the Governor, which stated " that if our Govern
ment would repeal all duties on British goods, and impose a reasonable
duty on all foreign importations, that the products of Canada shall be allowed
to enter the ports of Great Britain duty free." In commenting on this, Ms
opponent, the Niagara Clvronicle says : " For this happy result we are to a
considerable extent indebted to the exertions in England of Mr. W. H.
Merritt." The text of the Colonial Customs bill was published on the 21st
of July, as follows : Wheat from the States was admitted free to Canada,

254
and Canadian flour was reduced to two shillings only in England. So that
the balance saved to this country was about $4,000,000 per annum, and
continued with increasing prosperity to Canada for nearly five years, until
England opened her markets direct to the United States.
During the absence of Mr. M. in England a dispatch was received from
the home Government by Sir C, Bagot, repudiating the principle of appro
priating any of the public funds for building roads and bridges. The poll
tical opponents of our subject charged him with being concerned in this
matter, which he most indignantly denied, directly or indirectly, affLrming
that in his correspondence with Lord Stanley, or other ministers, he never
expressed an opinion on the subject, or that it was ever even alluded to.
Previous to the calling of the Legislature, on the 8th of September
some changes were made in the Government, and amongst them was the •
appointment of Mr. F. Hincks as Inspector General. This gentlemen had
previously successfully filled the situation of political editor to the Examiner
newspaper, and had gained such popularity that he virtually stepped from
the sanctum to the Council.
" J. S, Cartwright, to whom the position of Solicitor General for Canada
West has just been ofl'ered by His Excellency, has declined accepting it.
" In answer to his question whether Mr, Hincks was to be made Inspec
tor General and have a seat in the Council, the Govemor General replied in
tha affirmative," — Journal, June 9.
After a short breathing time he was again in harness, and his first duty
was to look at his old friend, the Canal, up which he accompanied Mr. Kil
laly. During his absence 25,000 emigrants, principally from Ireland, had
arrived in Canada, and a goodly number of these found employment upon
the works on the Canal. The old faction fights were renewed again in the
new country, and the glories of Cork and Connaught were as loudly vaunted
around the shanty fires as they ever had been in the Peninsula under Wel
lington in past years. Broken heads and sometimes worse was often the
'order of the day, and it became a serious matter to the contractors and others
to devise means whereby this continual turmoil could be stopped. Whiskey,
of course, was the primary cause. The idea suggested and carried out by
our subject, was that of separating the " rival clansmen " and placing them
at different divisions on the route. This, although in the main successful,
did not always fully accomplish a cure, as the vivacity of the Hibernians
was often raised to such a pitch that they either fought for the fun of thing,
or, to use an Irish expression, " were growing rusty for a batin'."
On the 1st of August, going to Toronto, he visited the new Governor, by
whom he was well received. From Toronto he went westward, visiting his
sister, Mrs. Ingersoll, and others, around Oxford, returning by Paris, Dundas
Flamborough, and other adjacent places, calling on many of his old ac
quaintances on the route.

255
Again, on his arrival home, he was met by a number of visitors from
the States who came to see the Cantrl. To these he acted the part of a cice
rone, showing them all the objects worthy of note on the Canal and in the
vicinity. This season was remarkable for very riotous conduct on the part of the
laborers on the Canal enlargement. So serious did the matter become that
the well-disposed people of St. Catharines came forward in large numbers to
be sworn in as special constables for the preservation of the peace. On the
assembling of the Board of Magistrates a number of resolutions were jsassed,
giving sufficient power to the people to suppress any demonstration of a
riotous tendency.
The following statement, in our subject's own hand writing, dated St. Ca
tharines, August 17, was presented to His Excellency :
" In consequence of public works being generally advertisad, information
has been published that the works on the canal were to be proceeded with im
mediately. In the early part of the season a number of can-allers assembled
along the line. By the 1st of July it became evident that greater numbers
had arrived than cuuld be employed on the work. It would be necessary to
employ military to prevent any serious breaches of the peace. Accordingly on
the 5th applications were made by the Warden, David Thorburn, to His Ex
cellency, to station some of the military on the line, and to send a few stands
cf arms for the militia. A reply was received on the 15th, from the Secretary,
Murdock, refusing the application. In the early part of August the numbers
had increased from 1,500 to 2,000 men. Arrangements had been matured
by this time to employ a part of those who had the largest families, amounting
to about 500 or 600. These were attacked by the unemployed, aud fojced to
desist. Under these circumstances the magistrates mat and renewed the ap
plication for tha assistance of military to the Colonel commanding at Ni gara,
but with the same results. To-day the canallers assembled, and had broken
iuto the contractors' stores, taking off flour and pork. This was succeeded by
the breaking in and robbing of mills at St. Catharines."
Peace was restored by the united action of the citizens and magistrates.
All opposition in the society being merged in the presence of a common danger.
Mr. Rykert and our subject, the former presiding, in the meeting of magis
trates. Special constables were sworn in, armed and organized to preserve the
peace. On the 18th of August he left for Kingston, where we think he re
mained until the opening of the House on the 8th of September.
Sept 8th, House met, 1 4th — A want of confidence is moved by Mr.
Baldwin. There was a, Lower Canada advocate who led the Lower Cana
dian wing, with whom Mr. Baldwin appears to have had a treaty offensive
and defensive regarding the official appointments The speech was agreed
m by all but five, and the business of the country proceeded.
2 Gth. — The debate on a duty on States wheat was carried on — Mr.
Hincks and our subject on opposite sides.
On the 8th October appears the report of the Special Committee to

256
which was referred the petition of the North American Colonial Society in
London — of the Municipal Council District of Niagara, and the several dis
patches on importation of wheat and flour — five resolutions accompanied.
" That the desirable object of Canada being treated as though she were
an integral part of the empire, can only be obtained by removing all duties
from its products.
"The Legislative Assembly will take the earliest opportunity as soon as
the finances of the Province will admit of recommending the removal of all
duties on the manufactures of the Mother Country.
" That they have every confidence, when the leading public works are
finished, that the revenue from foreign commerce and tolls will enable the
Provincial Government to recommend this.
"WM. H. MERRITT, Chairman."
With this end in view, and for economy, he brings in a motion for the
exhibition of the public accounts, -with what immediate success the present
answer from the leader of the Govemment will show.
" Duffield, Oct. 11th, 1842.
Mt Dear Sir: — You have a motion standing over from yesterday respect
ing the public accounts, which I trust you will consent to let it lie over until
next session. I have not had time to look over the motion which, from its
variety of details, it would be embarrassing to give an opinion on without
much more time for consideration than can now be applied to it. I trust I
need not assure you that the present administration have every desire to place
the accounts of the public income and expenditure before the country in that
shape best adapted to afford the fullest informati on these important subjects.
Neither need I assure you of our desire to meet every suggestion coming
from you as one coming from a friend. We at the same time are not pre
pared just now to assent to your motion, though we will give it every consid
eration during the recess with a view to act upon your suggestions as far as
practicable. Believe me, yours truly,
ROBERT BALDWIN.
As, we infer, the result of his interview with the Colonial Secretary
when in London, a despatch was received from the Imperial Government
during the interim, stating that if the Colonial Legislature wished to have
free trade with Britain they would coincide with the proposal. On the de
bate which arose upon this important question it is remarkable that the
men who in reality represented the early settlers of both Upper and Lower
Canada were in favor of the measure, while its chief opponents were those
who had not been many years settled in the country. The result was that
owing to the strange composition of the House, this measure, so vital to the
interest of this new and productive country, which would have made Canada
the envy of its neighbors, was put off until the next session. Very little
work was done afterwards, and the House closed on the 1 2th of October.
The Board of Works, established by S. P. Thompson, had effected numer
ous improvements, which were highly gratifying to our subject, particularly
those on the Ottawa for facilitating the transport of timber.

257
The principal act of the previous short session had been the report of the
Committee on free trade with England, of which our subject was Chairman.
It appeared to tend to draw closer the connection of natural interest between
the Colony and the Mother Country, and on which a lengthy speech is reported.
Mr. Merritt had entered into the system of party government, like
everything else, with great energy, offering the interest of his seat to the
Premier. After the close of the House he proceeded to Montreal on public busi
ness, and returned home on the 4th of November. Taking the opportunity
of personally inspecting the works for the improvement of the St. Lawrenoa
River, passing in an open boat, (an account of which is mysteriously alluded to)
determined the feasibility of the lost channel. Its success was heralded in
the other communication. " Corn-wall, November 9th, 1842.
" Dear Sir: — I was much disappointed when I learned that you had passed
through Cornwall on your return home from your lata tour to Beanharnois,
without affording me an opportunity to see you, particularly as you gave me
to understand that you would m-ike a stop here of at least a few hours.
" To my disappointment, I have now to add my surprise and extrema regret
that at your suggestion in accompanying you to Hungry Bay, I have effected
nothing but a confirmation of a desire on my part, which some imputed to
me at Kingston, during the late session of Parliament, to annoy and oppose
the Board of Works. Mr. John S. Macdonald, the Member from Glengarry,
informed me some five or six days ago that you had expressed yourself to Mr.
Moffat, in Montreal, quite satisfled from your recent examination that the
Channel at Hungry Bay was all that you could wish it to be, but that you
dared not give exptassion to that opinion at the time of making the examina
tion for fear of being thrown overboard from the boat in which we crossed.
This language is so unlike what I have always seen in you, and what I would
still expect, that I am slow to believe it ; yet at the same tima I cannot re
frain from remarking that after consulting me confidentially as you did on
more occasions than one whilst at Kingston on this subject, 1 thought I had
convinced you of sincerity at least in the statements which I made, however
far my judgment may have difiered from yours in the matter.
"Then again your opinion, as given quite freely, both on Clark's Island and
again at McPherson's Point, in reference to the shoals and badness of the
Channel was as strong and pointed as any opinion that I have or shall ad
vance for this reason. I must repeat my disbelief that you could have made
the alleged statements to Mr. Moffat, although Mr. McDonald says he had it
from Mr. Killaly as coming from Mr. Moffat. ^
" If what you said to me whilst in the boat was through fear of being ill-
treated by me or those who accompanied us (which I cannot for a moment
believe), why not on the first opportunity that offered after the danger was
past, communicate to me your real opinion, for which I have always had the
highest respect, particularly on canalling. But you will, I feel persuaded,
attribute to proper motives the feelings which dictated the addressing to you
this letter, and under the circumstances I think you will allow was not uncalled
for. "If I have misunderstood you in what you said in reference to the Chan-

25,3
nel under CO isideratior, and if my statements made to you confidentially as
well as in my evidence before the Committee are not borne out, I hope you
will do me the justice to inform me where the discrepany lies.
"I remain, dear sir, your very obedient seivmt, S. Y. CHESLEY."
"¦Kingston, 30th Nov.
" My Dear Sir : — I have the pleasure to announce to you that the High
lander arrived here yesterday. She ran the rapids in great style. She
leaves to-morrow, and will run clear down to the Coteau. Have you seen
Nilson's Gazette? He has a vary long article for an American paper as to the
absurdity of our finishing and enlarging the St, Lawrence navis-ation. "It
weighs much with many." You ought to take the subject up ; it is altogether
against your doctrine, Aylwin was ju?t now talking of it, and says it has
made a great impr(Ssion. Faithfully yours, in haste, " H. H,KILLALY,"
An anonymous letter of 9th December, from whom it is easy to ima
gine, and whose arguments it is unnecessar}"- to recapitulate, to Hon. J.
Nelson, M. P. P., combats the objections to improving the St. Lawrence, as
stated in the States paper alluded to.
As Mr. Merritt's legislative engagements did not prevent his being at
home on the holidays, we here make an extract from Mr. Merritt's Journal .
" 20th Dec. — Thomas has been assisting to decorate our church for
Christmas. Mr. Murray, the English Episcopal clergyman, of Lewiston,
and daughter, spent the week with us.
" I was very busy all the week making preparations for Christmas. The
church was very full, Christmas coming on Sunday. Mr. A. gave us a
good discourse, as he always does on this occasion. When the church was
half over, who should oome in but grandma, with my own mother. When
leading her forward, how often have 1 thought very likely it was the last time.
" ilonday, 20th. — The family and connections dined with us. 'When
the cloth was removed, PI. proposed the memory of him who was with us
last Christinas, our father and friend.
" 27th. — Had a sleigh-rid.^ to the Falls, with 17 in company. As usual
with so large a party, there was some not paired to suit. T. took in his
carriage S. Ingersoll, and G. A. Alex. Strachan and Jliss A. Hopes Mr.
Kissock and T. Keefer took no offence at the refusing to let Miss A. go, and
at the last permitting it. Rendezvoused at the Pavillion. We promenaded,
chatted, and partook of sandwiches, cake and wine, while Miss A. of our
party alternately with a lady there, played on the piano. Leaving the
young people enjoying a dance, we retumed by Thorold, where we saw the
men at work — they reside in shanties, along the side of the mountain."
On the 1 6th, in company \vith Mr. Killaly, he again inspected the works,
which were now going on with a large force of men busily engaged.
The year had been a remarkable one for having an abundant harvest
throughout the world, and produce of every description was vary low in
price, yet the great public works going on in Canada proved a boon to the
farmers, as they found a home market for all their surplus products. Yet
our subject was a loser, from being security to the milling business before
a'luded to, and in which he was a silent partner.

259
1843.
In January the pleasing intelligence arrived from England that the
^debentures which our subject had left with Messrs. Bousanquet were sold,
with all expenses, at one per cent, under par. We doubt if an event like
this has since occurred in the English money market.
On the 27th of February another new Govemor, Sir Thomas Metcalf
rarrived. Although we believe he was a sincerely good man, yet we think,
his long residence of thirty-four years in the East Indies and three years
in Jamaica were not the schools to either fit him physically or mentally to
manage parties in Canada.
We copy the following brief notices from the English Colonial Gazette,
of January 23rd, respecting Lord Metcalf's appointment:
"Sir C. Metcalf has neither the aristocratic connections, nor the party
.claims, nor the parliamentary influence, which are commonly the title to
offices cnferring the viceregal power and dignity. Party exigencies and the
.agreeable exercise of patronage, are equally set at nought in favor of peace
.and good govemment for a distant province."
And concludes a list 9i goodqualities by saying that "he possesses a love
¦of justice, soundness of judgment, and unswerving firmness, when his miud
is made up."
Iq the House of Commons, March 16, during the debate upon the Queen's
.speech, Lord Stanley said :
" And I do not hesitate to say that, highly as I value Canada, and impor
tant as I think it for this country, that she shoidd have the control of these
great colonies in North American. Yet from the day that we shall cease to
hold Canada by the afi'ection and good -will of the greater part of the inhabit
ants, I sh-ill cease to desire to maintain it."
In the same debate. Lord Russell goes farther, and speaks as follows :
"My opinion is, that your hold upon Canada ought, in the first instance;
to depend upon your giving to them a constitutional government, by which
the interests and affections of the people of Canada may be so regulated as to
prevent the probability of any wish arising on their part to separate from this
.country. "
But, to become better acquainted with the people and the country, a
long recess was maintained before he called his Parliament to assemble)
and we believe him to have been active in his endeavours to conduct his
government by giving an equal representation to the nationalities of which
Canada is composed.
On the 21st of March Mr. Merritt suffered anotlier affliction in the
death of his mother, aged 82, to whom much was due far bringing up a
large family in a new and almost unsettled land, and instilling her children
"with proper notions of duty to their Creator and country. She was a great
favorite with the rest of her husband's family, and, as a mark of esteem
her brother-in-law, Nehemiah, had previous to his death left a bequest of

260
£500 for a monument in which her name as well as her husband's was to-
be commemorated. The stone on which the inscription is recorded was
brought from the old family homestead in Westchester, N. Y., and now
forms the tablet in the front of the tower of the Episcopal Church in St.
Catharines. This church had been finished just before the occupancy of
!Mr. Atkinson, under whose able and consistent administration the con
gregation had largely increased, rendering an addition to the building neces
sary; and our subject, on whom the execution of this trust rested, devoted
it to the purpose of this enlargement.
On the approach of fine weather new surveys were made for the exten
sion of the St, Lawrence Canals to Montreal, and the route of the Beanhar
nois section was decided to be on the south side of the St. Lawrence, which,
for political purposes, was a wise decision, having in view the ultimate con
nexion of the maritime provinces in a straight line from the upper country,
thereby uniting all the British- American people, an act which subsequent
events have borne out to be the best and wisest for this country.
The new works on the Canal, although pushed forward with great "s-igor,
did not materially interfere with the traffic, as the route by Port Maitland
was extensively used, and we find that during this year a number of Swed"
ish, Norwegian, and German emigrants passed through the Canal en route
for the far West, being the pioneers to those jDopulous and thri-ving dis
tricts which now occupy the then almost unknown lands of Wisconsin and
Illinois. Mr. Merritt arrived home from Kingston, on the 26ih May, where he-
had an interview with the Governor and Board of Works, and entered
immediately into the consideration of his own affairs in connection with
the mill. This with Mr. M. had great responsibility— £25,000 to the
Montreal firm for stocking the mill. And he writes to his son to this effect :
"Mrs, M. says : 7th — H. to Toronto on mill business. 12th — Returned
from Street's on business, Mr. Merritt and John Mittleberger are engaged
talking ; I wonder what the use can be after the injury is done ? Mr. Mer
ritt returned from Toronto, where ha had been thirteen days. With son
Thomas to Uncle William Merritt's. They told us the report there and at
Lewiston was that W. H. Merritt and Geo. Adams had 'broke all to smash.' "
About midsummer he received a communication from the Government.
in reference to the establishment of a Provincial Lunatic Asylum, wherein
he was deputed to make extensive inquiries, and collect information in the
United States in reference to the subject, He visited New York, Boston,
Utica and various other places ; and in Utica gleaned a large amount of in
formation from his friend. Doctor Brigham, who had charge of the Asylum
there. From the experience gained, he prepared an able report, and trans
mitted the same to the Provincial Secretary.
During this journey of inspection he was accompanied by Mrs. Merritt,,
from whose journal we copy :

261
"We arose Monday, 16th July, at 4 o'clock, and took a cup of coffee; and
-with son Thomas fbr driver, arrived at Niagara at 8, in time for steamer
Queen, to Toronto. There was smooth water, and a little rain fell during the
sail. Passed the Chief Justice and St. Lawrence. Conversed with Mrs. Gil
lespie, of Gait, and with her three children ; she is very chatty and pleasant.
Toronto at 12 ; stopped at North American Hotel ; drove to Professor Potter's,
when, after an hour, came back by College Avenue and Mr. Grassett's, and
back iu time for tea, and drove to steamer St. Lawrence at 8 ; crossed to Os
wego ; went on board a canal boat at 7, sat on deck till 9, when we got lodged
three tier high ; up and dressed at 2. At Syracuse took another canal packet
to Chittenango landing, where we drove to Mrs. Yates', who received us with
•great demonstration, shewing us through the grounds, flowers, plants, green
house, all surrounded by a well-cut hedge. After tea Mrs. Y. escorted us to
station. Utica at half-past 9 ; stayed two days at our friend's house. Started
for New York by Albany , arrived at 8 o'clock 24th July ; put up at the Astor
House. After seeing the sights, went to visit Col. Arnold, at l-'erth Amboy.
1st of August found us at Boston, per steamboat down Long Island Sound,
and railroad ; thence we returned to Utica, where we visited the Asylum,
reaching home 18th August, after a month's travel.
Soon afterwards he was notifled by the Secretary that the Governor-
General intended to make a tour to the western section of the Province,
and would call at St. (Catharines to sea the Canal, for which he caused ample
preparations to be made for his reception. The Governor arrived on the
19th September, by coach from Hamilton, provided by Mr. D. P. Haynes.
He was received by a deputation at the St. Catharines House, and after
breakfast was escorted up the canal — a rather difficult route to travel, in
consequence of the enlargement going on. Mr. Merritt however guided the
party in safety. Leaving the canal, he then took his departure for tha
Falls ; and after a short stay, left for Kingston, the then Provincial capitol.
As was usual at this season, a number of distinguished strangers visite
the Falls; among thera was Professor Potter, of London University, now of
King's College, Toronto, and his lady, grand-d-iughter of Mr. Nelles. Mrs^
Merritt's Journal of 24th says :
" Prof and Mrs. Potter came on Friday, from tha Falls. We talked of
Cambridge, they both having resided there. Mrs. P. pointed to many well-
known places in the views of Cambridge. After dinner our man took them on
to Grimsby, to visit Mrs. Potter's relations."
On the 28th of September tho House met, and a committee was appointe'l
to consider the question of colonial free trade. Our subject was on this
committee, and was earnestly in favor of the object, as he believed that a
free intercourse in all commercial transactions between the different colonies
wonld materially tend to their consolidation, but although various sugges
tions were offered, nothing was done at this time.
Among the numerous correspondents, there are members of Parliament
¦in and out of the Government with letters to his family. Some of them,
are here inserted.

262
In writing to his son William he urgently impresses upon him the'
necessity of making himself proflcient in the French language, as the poli
tical appearanoa of the time pointed to a permanent Parliament in Mon
treal, and the general use of both the English and French languages therein.
He also says that so far, the Government has been conducted upon his fav
orite theory, viz., responsibility to the people governed, from which system
he seems to have had the greatest expectations. " House of Assembly, Oct. 7, 1843.
"My Dear Son : — Yours of the 18th of August, from Zurich, was re
ceived by the last packet — this goes by the " Acadia," which leaves on the
15th. Your mother copied your letter and sent it to me. She leaves for
Mayville to-morrow, with all your letters, views, books, &c., which, with
those of your brother, will be a rich treat to your remaining grand-parents.
" If your brother's health is restored by travelling, we will rejoice, and,
I trust, feel grateful. Having written so fully in my last letter, I will con
fine myself to giving you a brief narrative of passing events here.
" 'The Government is conducted on my favorite theory — responsibility
to the people governed. The Welland and St. Lawrence Canals will be
finished on your return, tha resources of the counti-y fully developed, the
commerce with the mother country placed on a perfect system, by the re
moval of duties on the commodities of each when entering the other, and
I trust the prosperity of your native country established on a permanent
basis. The seat of Government will be removed to Montreal. The question
is to be left to the decision of the Legislature, and a majority will be against
Upper Canada that was, hence the importance of your being enabled to
speak in French ; if you succeed in speaking with facility, it will, in case
you become a public man, be of great advantage, and give you a decided
preference over your fellows. The session is expected to last some three
months, and I hope to hear from you again while here, in answer to this.
" The Jury Law, Division Courts, Municipal Councils, Education Bill,.
and many other acts, will be repealed and amended; and I hope to live to
see the day when you will bring in a general system, or code of laws,
adapted to Canada, on some uniform system. At present we have two sets,.
the civil law for Lower, and common, for Upper Canada. I dare say Mr.
Papineau can and will point out the alterations made in France since their
adoption in Canada some centuries ago, and I should like to hear if he thinks
those alterations important, or a better system than the existing one in
Lower Canada. The State of Louisiana has a coda peculiar to itself, origi
nating with Mr. Livingston, and very highly spoken of by Lord Durham.
" Your affectionate father,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
A large portion of our subject's time was occupied in corresponding -with
his friends in all parts. He wrote and received long letters from his son.
William, who was pursuing his studies at Bonn. The subject of a new code
of laws for Canada was earnestly discussed, and the possibility of introduc
ing into the country the simple and inexpensive Code Napoleon hinted at,.
as one of the means which might advance and consolidate the distant parts of
the country. He earnestly urges his sons to closely attend to their studies^

203,
as the prospect of their becoming useful in their native land would re
quire the earnest thoughts of able men and involves ideas on all subjects
which would be beneficial to the country, and help to increase its greatness.
"House of Assembly, Nov. II, 1843.
" My Dear Son : — The Government messenger leaves in the morning
for Boston, and I have taken up a few moments while sitting on a commit
tee to investigate the manner of disposing of Indian lauds, to give you a short
sketch of passing occurrences. Messrs, Dunn, Harrison, Morin, Thompson,
Thorburn and myself compose the committee, James Little, Esq,, <Japt=,
Kerr and .larvis, with many others, all of whom are known to you,
are here as evidence. Messrs. Dunn and Thompson are furious, and while
they are debating, I am scribbling. An address to the Queen, praying for
a removal of the seat of Government to Montreal, goes to England by this
packet. Should the petition be granted, and you become a legislator, your
French will combine utility with accomplishment. A bill has Ijoen intro
duced altering the Municipal Councils Act, the School Aot, tha Excise antl
Duties, Jurisprudence of Lower Canada, Ju -y Bill, amending Niagara Dis
trict Bank Charter, which we hope to get into operation, and I trust that
you may at some future day become its solicitor.
Our prese:it Governor General is popular, and a good man. I hope you
have seen his letter to the British Ambassador, which I enclosed to D, Daly,
Banker, Paris. It will give you an opportunity ui seeing state grandeur, or
the splendor -with which our diplomacy is surrounded in S'urope, to talk
about hereafter. It is all the good it will do. I will send you a paper
containing the debates on the seat of Government by this packet. The
members of the Upper House, or a part of them, left in dudgeon. Mr.
Harrison, Secretary West, has resigned, and loses a salary of £1,200 per
year. We have a bill to amend the act for granting c'ebentures to the
private shareholders in the Welland Canal Company, which I hope will be
come a law. If so, it may take me over the Atlantic once more. Another
month will decide. I will write you the result in due time. We are about
applying for a port of entry and a warehousing poi-t, whicli will add very
considerably to your small estate in St. Catharines. The Welland and St.
Lawrence Canals are getting on well. Within two years all our communi
cations will be opened.
"If you recollect, at the last election I assured my constituents thi.t the
British Govemment intended to carry out the system of responsibility to
the people governed, and assigned the reason why ; also, that the first fruits
of the union would be opening all our communications to the ocean, and,
thirdly, that the agricultural interests would be promoted. It so happens
that my predictions have been carried out to the very letter. Although we
owe much to Lord Sydenham, he never intended to concede responsible
government. During the first session in 1841, if you recollect, the House
passed a series of resolutions, declaring that hereafter the practical opeiation
of our Provincial Government should be assimilated as nearly as possible
to the constitution ofthe mother country, and the Executive Council should
command the confidence of the House of Assembly. Sir Charles Bagot
came out, datermined not to adhere to that principle, but in the first session
of 1842 was compelled to adopt it, and call Mess: s. Lafontaine, Baldwin,
and Mor'n, to his Council, or dissolve the House of Assembly. Sir Charles

264
Metcalfe came out, under the same impression, but has no alternative. Our
Council is therefore composed of Baldwin, Dunn, and Daly, in addition to
those before named. Harrison having resigned, that office is abolished.
The completion of the Canals is also secured, and the trouble I took to im
press on the mind of Lord Stanley the impoi tance of admitting our produce
into the ports of Great Britain without duty, has been fully compensated.
Copies of those letters have been published and most extensively circulated
in this Province, and admitted by all to contain sound principles and useful
information. It is gratifying to find so much has been done in so short a
time ; but much more requires to be accomplished. Our system of judica
ture is expensive. Our municipal institutions do not yet work well, in con
sequence of attempting to create two opposing powers in the same district,
the one, the magistrates appointed by the Executive Government, and the
councillors, elected by the people. " Your affectionate father,
"W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
During the session he strongly advocated that the proceeds derived from
the sale of Indian lands should be set apart solely for the use of the abori
gines, and when on the committee for tMs purpose he earnestly insisted on
the same course being pursued towards these people.
One of the acts of the new Parliament was the establishment of our Com
mon School system, which was placed under the charge of the Rev. E. Ry
erson. The system so far has proved in many respects unsatisfactory, owing to
religious controversy producing seperate schools, A very expensive system
of management, besides creating the fallacious idea that as men progressed
in wealth they should still, among other communistic doctrines, compel the
State to pay for the education of their children, instead of doing it them
selves. Mr, Merritt made a lengthy speech on the removal of the seat of Govern
ment, taking the opportunity of going over the whole history. His ¦' attention
to the Sttbjeat of the Union was first directed, from contrasting the relative pros
perity of the adjacent State of New Yoik as early as 1822, since which no op'
portunity tending to bring it about had been neglected. It was with the view'
of having a seaport for his Province of Upper Canada that, before a committee
of the House of Commons in England, six years after, the annexation of Mont
real was advocated. He addressed this letter to the Colonial Secretary, Sir
George Murray ;
' At present a majority of the inhabitants of both Upper and Lower Canada
are averse to the Union ; the former for fear of being controlled by the French.
* '* * On (he other hand, by the annexation of a sea
port to Upper Canada and the improvement of the St. Lawrence, commerce
will be extended, population doubled, the value of property increased, so that
both would soon realize the wisdom of the measure, and not only become recon
ciled to it, but solicit a reunion.'

265
After reading the foregoing, Mr. Merritt continued :
" Three ofthe most distinguished members of this House, including the
honorable the Speaker, were then in London ; and although the measure was
opposed, the object has since been effected to the fullest extent. The first
fruits of the session (and he hoped we should never forget that we were indebted
to their Lower Canada friends for it,) was to secure a passage to the ocean.
Up to the present moment the union had been gaining ground. This had been
brought about with the seat of Government in Upper Canada. Why, then,
by attempting a change, endanger it ?"
At the termination of the session a break-up occurred in the ministry
in consequence of which the House was hastily adjourned.
A new ministry being in progress of formation, the office of Receiver.
General was offered to Mr. Merritt, but believing that in his present position
as committed to the Baldwin-Lafontaine ministry, and as ex.pecting to be
Inspector of the Canals, he could be of more use to the country, he de
clined the honor, although strongly pressed by Mr. Harrison to accept it,
this gentleman refusing to rejoin the Cabinet unless our subject came in also.
He writes from the House of Assembly, Kingston, Deo. 1st :
" Mt Dear C  : We are all in confusion here, the result of which
you will hear in a day or two. I have quite recovered ; (a previous letter
notices his being indisposed ;) but will not return before the holidays, even
were the House adjourned. W. H. M."
From the same place, Dec. 7: — "From present appearances the House wi.J
be .prorogued this week." With some notices of their legislation in the inter
ests of the canal stockholders, enclosing remittances, he adds : " Give our
friends the usual Christmas dinner, whether I am with you or not. W. H. M ."
The seat of Government debate was succeeded by the resignation of the
Muiistry. This news was conveyed in a postscript to the Journal of Nov.
30th : " We have received a letter from Mr, M. confirming the resignation
of all the Cabinet except Mr. Daly." A subsequent number contains an
article fromthe pen of Mr. Wakefield, from which wa copy the following :
" The union of the two Canadas has brought under the control of one
Legislature two nations so to speak, which widely differ in origin, language,
laws, customs, and habits of thought. Legislation must be carried on in a
federal principle. Of this the late Canadian Ministry appears never to have
had any clear view, or even a glimpse. Thej^ had thfe inconceivable folly
to depend upon the Lower Canada majority as a means of carrying through
Parliament measures for Upper Canada— the Assessment Bill of Upper
Canada and the University Bill, This letter was Mr. Baldwin's own, aud i...
great favorite. He would probably have been compelled to withdraw it on
the Monday after the Sunday on which he resigned."
After imputing this act to the personal vanity of the Minister, he
continues .
"I cannot doubt, however, that ]Messrs. Baldwin and Lafontaine ha'l
arranged to get upon bad terms with the Governor some time before this.
No Govemor of a colony, most assuredly, ever carried out the principles of

266
responsible government so far as Sir Charies has done in Canada nor was
ever before in any colony a provincial administration which, while they
possessed on the one hand the confidence of the representative body, enjoyed
on the other so much executive power— had their own -way so entirely in
their capacity of ministers, as the said L, and B, Administration, Yet it
appears, by all accounts that the two leaders were not content with suck
unusual power, but also wanted to play the part of mastiffs over the Gov
ernor, representing Sir Charles as an old Indian, disliking free institu
tions, closing with the ii-.competency of its leaders the true cause of tli6
downfall of the government."
But what the public and consequently the papers did not know, was that
overtures had been made to Mr. Jlerritt to enter tbe government. His Ex
cellency's long experience in the administration of government over diverse
nationalities induced him to perceive there was a people in this country whom.
it would be politic as well as just, to have represcLted. He would have a na
tional, not a Hincks-Wakefield any more than a Baldwin-Lafontaine Cabinet.
And it w'as a reasonable inference that the one who had made the first com
munication to render profitable that interchange through the colony to the
Mother Country was the one to complete it; and we think this feeling was par
ticipated in by the inhabitants, as well as His Excellency and the ministry at
home. But the inherent evils of our constitution favoring monopoly, and
putting party above country', rendered it abortive.
Viewing the want of co-operation among Ms Reform associates in his
scheme for retrenchment, which he had experienced, his confidence in the
necessity of party must have been strong to refuse such an appeal as this :
" Kingston, Jan. 5, 1844.
" My Dear Sir : — It is with great regret that I have perused yours of
the 30th ult. You must be sensible that however strong my desii-e to be a
party to a reform of that durable and substantial character of which we
spoke, without some one who understands the subject well, and has skill to
develop and energy to pursue it, there is no chance of my ever being able
to bring it about. I know no one who to the necessary qualities adds the
necessary knowledge but yourself, and I should regret more than I can ex-
piress the want of your assistance in this matter. Never was there an occa
sion more favorable than the present, or more deserving the ainbition of a
well-wisher of his country. We are now, I think, safe in Eastern Canada
— at least, so I aip led to believe, not merel}' by persons here, but by those
from whom I hear in Montreal and Quebec. With your aid and that of
those others on whom you are aware I rely, it does appear to me we can
command a successful issue, and this I say notwithstanding some threaten
ings in the political atmosphere about Toronto.
" I hope to be in Toronto for two or three days about the 14th or 15th
inst. Pray write to me there, and say that you will not desert the good cause.
" Yours faithfully,
" W. Hamilton Merritt." " W. H. DRAPER.
Added to this he was appealed to in a long communication from his coun
tryman, E. Ryerson, which being marked " private and confidential " prevents
our giving it in full.

267
Though not enabled to accept of office, he pleads for the continuance of
his old associate in fhe canal, now a quarter of a century in the Receiver-
General's office. The following is the reply :
" Government House, Dec. 30, 1843.
" My Dear Sir : — I had not the pleasure of receiving your note on the
subject of the Receiver General's office until temporary arrangements had
been made for relieving Mr. Dunn, (hastened at his own request), until a
permanent successor can be appointed. The Governor-General, however,
desires me to offer you his thanks for the suggestion, hoping that your ap
prehension for the effect that the change might have on the credit of the
Province may prove groundless. I trust we shall soon see you back again,
and I am, my dear sir, Yours very truly,
" W, Hamilton Merritt." " J. HIGGINSON.
The Journal of December 28, 1843, closes the proprietorship of Mr.
Leavenworth for Mr. J. Holmes. A valedictory of a column contains the
following : " Nearly seventeen years have we toiled to cater for the public
taste." What that catering should be he defines. " Canada is now in a
condition to act a prominent part in North America. Nations, like indi
viduals, must be the architects of their own fortunes, and colonies, rising
into kingdoms and empires, cannot attain the highest point which civiliza
tion can reach without a strict regard to the principles of justice, the culti
vation of the moral virtues, and a watchful jealousy of public liberty."
A new engineer, Mr. Power, was appointed on the Canal, and on tho
return of our subject he accompanied this gentleman over the entire route..
The organ of each party was now started. The Native Canadian, edited
by Major Richardson, says, it is to be issued in January, 1844, advocating the
invaded rights and privileges of the native inhabitants of the country. The
Pilot in Montreal, by Francis Hincks ; and the Globe, in Toronto, by George-
Brown, appeared in the Spring, and far outstretched, especially the latter, all
competitors. A dispatch was received by D. B. Vigor, the new President of the
Council, on December 15, ordering the release of five Canadians, who had
been transported to New South Wales for political offences.

1844.
Although busily engaged in his temporal matters, we find that he was'
not forgetful of other and more important affairs, hence we see that at this
time he takes an active part in the deliberations of a missionary meeting
which was held here. A very good speech delivered by him on the occasion
is fully reported, wherein he expresses a spirit of thankfulness and a hopeful
view of our social and political positions, drawing some fine comparisona
between the present and the past.

268
" My Friends — I am sure you all feel with me deeply grateful in being
¦permitted to assemble once more to commemorate the anniversary of this
most useful and interesting society.
" Every succeeding year more clearly and more fully developes the object
which this, as well as all other similar institutions, are designed to accomplish.
" Even the most absurd ideas, which the ordinary mind, that only looks
at the surface, supposes to be retarding, is tending to accelerate the event.
" The old prediction that this world would be annihilated has been again
revived during the past year, and many have gone so far as to predict the
very day. This is not singular ; many wiser and better men in all ages have
fallen into the same error. FrSfti my earliest childhood my mind has been
firmly impressed with the belief that instead of this world being destroyed,
that its inhabitants were destined at some period to realize the blessings
promised by the Almighty and enjoy a perfect millenium.
" I cannot refrain from availing myself of this opportunity to endeavor
to impress on the minds of mothers the great importance of directing
the early attention of their offspring to reading the Bible, and explain those
principles which every intelligent mind should fully comprehend. One pious
mother will do more good in her generation than a score.of fathers in hastening
this event. Make a child once believe that peace must reign on earth — ¦
that man will regard his fellow man as Ms brother — and you arm that child
through life against error. When he hears a fellow-man predict the end of
time, or witnesses signs and wonders in the heavens or convulsions of nature,
his mind is not disturbed — he has not yet witnessed the millenium. When
he hears a minister of that religion which is founded on love and peace to
all mankind, rail against his fellow-man, or any other sect or society what
ever, he will fall back and still hear the voice of that pious mother,
and say to himself, that man does not believe in the millenium.
" Have we positive evidence that this time is approaching I Since my
arrival to the age of manhood every observation made on men and passing
events tends the more firmly to convince my reason of the certainty of this
prediction being fulfilled. Aye, I can trace it step by step in small matters
as well as great matters — from my earliest recollection in this very neigh
borhood. " What was the state of society among us forty years since 1 At every
bee, every militia training, even at our dances, swearing, cursing, quarrel
ling, fighting, biting, and even gouging, was of common occurrence. It
-was sanctioned by tho public opinion of the day. Let me ask you if such
revolting scenes would be tolerated by public opinion now. Let us extend
our views. Look into the past history of Europe, the original formation of
governments, their gradual improvement from tyranny — when men were
made the willing instruments of men — to constitutional freedom, where the
tyranny of no man can exist. How long is it since governments waged war,
one with another, on the most frivolous occasions, taxing their subjects,
desolating countries, and inflicting scenes of misery on the human race, the
bare idea of which makes the stoutest heart shudder. Look at the present
day. The most important matters are settled in those very governments
by reference to other powers — simply by arbitration, in the same manner
that every right-minded man should settle his differences with his neighbor,
8ns'„^ad of forcing him into law.
" I luention those facts to prove that civilization has during my short

269
life advanced with rapid strides, and this civilization will bring about the
millenium. " Let us now examine what visible means are in operation to ensure
this desirable event. Every element is at work, all apparently separate and
distinct, but all combining to produce and ensure the object. The most
prominent is education. Without general intelligence it is impossible to
comprehend those great objects which will best promote our individual in
terest. Next is temperance. Experience has proved that this Society has
done more to promote virtue and lessen vice since its establishment than
any other association of men. Every religious society of every name and
creed, Bible societies, missionary societies, abolition of slavery, legislation,
arts, science, commerce, all, in their own particular sphere, diffuse intelli
gence, enlarge the mind, and hasten this even^. There is another and all
powerful element at work, which has during the past year attained a degree
of importance, and is likeh' to produce results that few of us can compre
hend. I allude to the principle of free trade. We see in a recent article
in the Times that £50,000 per year is subscribed to advocate the anti-corn
law league ; that one, two, three, four, and five hundred pounds sterling is
paid by individuals. Their ostensible object is to remove the duty on human
food ; but their onward course "will not stop there. It will extend to every
article consumed by man, and what must be the result. Deprive govern
ments of the revenue they derive from indirect taxation, and standing armies
will disappear. Nation will not be armed against nation. The very cause
of strife, of hatred, and of war, will cease to exist, and peace -will be estab
lished on earth.
" The next question is : When are we to look for this happy period 1
Judging from past experience — our only guide for the future — we find the
Almighty brings about His own wise purposes by natural, means. The pro
gress of civilization must necessarily be slow. If we draw just comparisons
between the inhabitants of different countries it gives a most gloomy and
disheartening result. ' When I find the inhabitants of my own country, the
cultivators of the soil, at least one century in advance of some parts of
Europe, then I see we are not warranted in looking for it in our day or
generation. Nevertheless, it will assuredly be realized by our posterity — it
¦will be for them to realize the blessings which are in store for mankind.
No feelings of bigotry, intolerance, or exclusiveness will embitter their
minds. All that remains for us is individually and collectively to hasten
the event by every means within our power. Let us commence now. This
is one of the elements in effecting that great work. It cannot be effected
by faith alone. We must show by our works that we are really in earnest^
and to this particular object I now beg to direct your attention.
" I am indebted to our excellent friend, Mr. Parsons, for the report of
last year, which I have read with attention, and commend it to those who
have not had a similar opportunity. In the meantime I will call your at
tention to a few short extracts, which contain the most interesting and
pleasing information."
Prom the importance of Bible teaching during the generation of peace
succeeding a warlike age, he hastily anticipates the advantages arising from
the institutions during an age of peace.
Having a high regard for Mr. Thomas Street, he -writes him a letter
of advice, on accepting a municipal situation, to which the following is a reply;

270
"Fall Mills, Chippawa, Jan. 22, 1844.
" My Dear Sir : — I thank you for your friendly and disinterested letter.
I accept it in the spirit in which it was written, and shall endeavor to profit
by your good advice. I entertain no ultra opinion in politics, and shall
•ever be ready to advance to the best of my ability the general interests of
the inhabitants of this District, without reference to party or political con
siderations. I am, of course, as every other inhabitant of the Province
¦o-ight to be, a staunch supporter of the British Crown, an admirer of British
laws and institutions, and naturally jealous at any attempt to lessen or
weaken the authority of the Government by unreasonable demands, or the
following up a system of executive policy entirely at variance and incon
sistent with what I understand to be Her Majesty's prerogative as exercised
in this Province through her legal representative,
" I am and always have been anxious that the inhabitants of the coun
try should have their fair share and influence in all matters in which they
are directly or personally interested, but when that influence is employed in
such a manner as to endanger other and superior rights, then I think the
time has arrived when it becomes every man entertaining the opinions that
I do to rejoice at a check being put to further encouragement. I shall en
deavor while in the District Council to discharge my duty in such a way as
to give satisfaction to my constituents. If I fail, it will not be from the
want of good will to serve them, nor from any apathy or inattention on my
part, " I shall keep your good advice always in view, and. will not fail to act
upon it in all cases in which I can conveniently do so.
" Believe me, my dear sir,
" Very truly yours,
"THOMAS C. STREET.
" W. H. Mekritt."
The Journal, of March 15, after copying a rumour by the Kingston News,
that Mr. Thorburn would retire for Mr.'Harrison, says: " The Statesman, not
to be outdone by the Neios, observes, that among other members of Parliament,
Mr, M. has given in his adhesion to the present .system, and will support the
new administration. Being in the habit of almost'daily intercourse with Mr.
M., and having enjoyel uninterruptedly for many years his confidence upon
all public matters, we may naturally be presumed to have as intimate-an ac- -
quaintance as the Statesman. Mr. M. is not the man to conceal from his
friends his views upon matters of public policy ; and when so great a change
comes over him as that mentioned above, it will be promulgated throuo-h a
channel entitling it to some degree of credit."
The correspondence here given shows that with all the private friendship
displayed towards his fellow townsman, he had not made matters of state his
daily subject of conversation, and that he is still writing to the Ministry, say
ing that if certain measures were adopted he would join them.
'•Toronto, March 24, 1844.
"Sir: — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your favor of
the 15th inst., in which, I am glad to find, his Excellency approves of the
principle of the plan submitted for his consideration, although I regret to
hear that he entertains doubts as to the practicability of the proposecf reduc-

271
-tions. The whole object of my, I fear, tedious communication, was to pro
duce such proof, based on practical and positive results already realized, as
I hoped would have removed all doubts as to the feasibility of the plan.
Without removing those doubts, and establishing confidence in the result
as well as the plan submitted for altering it, any attempt to secure it would
be useless. I endeavored to impress on the mind of his Excellency a fact
seldom brought under the consideration of a Governor by his Council : —
That the gross revenue of Canada amounted to £400,000 ; that the gross
revenue of the State of New York was but £92,075 ; that we had resources
from four distinct and separate objects which they had not, amounting to
about £349,235 ; that by adopting the same system of finance as they
adapted the whole of that money would be saved.
" I find many men highly intelligent on general subjects remarkably
deficient in comprehending financial matters. 'They ignorantly class finance
and republicanism together. They assert that the cause of the expenditure
in the State of New York being so low is tha effect of the system of a re
publican government. This I deny in toto^ Low salaries, I admit, is in
most cases the effect of a republican administration, but I deny that repub
licanism affects the different departments or branches of a government.
They have as m'any departments as we, hut they have batter laws and rules to
regulate them, and I feel as satisfied as of any event not realized that we
only require financial experience and talent to effect the saving named.
" I am, my dear sir, yours very truly,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
"St. Catharines, April 26, 1844.
<.- gig ;  I have the honor to enclose herewith an abstract of the details
of the proposed reductions, (tha items are not transcribed, but will be found
in the schedules referred to, lettered and numbered, in public accounts of
1842,) as required by your letter of the 15th of March, and promised in my
last frora Toronto.
" From the hurried manner in which I have made those extracts, having
been detained by*other affairs until the present week, perfect accuracy must
not be looked for. A minute detail can ba arrived at only by a rigid in
vestigation of the different departments. A general outline of tha proposed
reformation is all I can feel warranted in recommending. If it is considered
of sufficient importance to make further investigation, competent heads could
soon mature, prepare, and recommend a simple and efficient system for the
consideration of his Excellency.
" Their attention would first be directed to the Provincial Governments,
the number of departments considered necessary, and their respective duties
clearly defined.
" The present system of land granting departments is a reproach to any
Government, inasmuch as there is not a sufficient sum of money received for
the sale of land to pay for stationery, and all the officers of the department
are paid from duties derived from customs, and could ba contrasted with a
system which pays all expenses for about five to tan per cent, out of
the proceeds of the land, and a permanent fund created with the remammg
nmety per cent, for the education of our youth for all time hereafter.
"The real and true value of each separate fund would be shown by itself,
m place of being mystified and mixed up so as not to be understood, with-

272
out great labor and loss of time, even by those who administered the Govern
ment. "The present method of collecting and expending the district revenue, to
vvhich I have not alluded, could also be contrasted with the one proposed.
" Certain gentlemen, as magistrates, assemble once in three months
They appoint one treasurer, one clerk of the peace, and regulate the price of
fines. A second power is created by electing certain district councillors
who name one clerk — same duty as clerk of the peace — two auditors, and
one surveyor. There is one inspector to collect the revenue from stills
inns, shojDS, &c., making returns to Inspector General of Customs, and who
grants licenses to auctioneers, making returns as above. Another set of
officers collect marriage licenses and return the same to the Provincial
Secretary. The Sheriff makes returns of other fines to the Inspector General.
The district taxes are levied "and collected by assessors and collectors ap
pointed at each town meeting, and paid to the Treasurer.
It is evident this diversity of power and responsibility is unnecessary
inconvenient, and could be contrasted with a simple system which would
be recommended, not to its advantage, containing one inspector in each dis
trict, who would report direct to the Inspector General as well as to the
district authority, thus establishing a mutual check for provincial and dis
trict funds, by which a prompt collection would be insured, and but one set
of officers required for collecting the extra provincial revenue, and another
for, district revenue,
" The main object to be effected is to relieve the inhabita-ats from taxa
tion. The adjoining States of Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana are
largely in debt, without any extraneous resources. The apprehension of
direct taxation ultimately, to pay this debt, directed emigration last year to
the territory of Wisconsin, where no taxation is in expectancy. Canada
has greater resources than any portion of America, and can be relieved
from all taxation unless imposed by the districts themselves for some local
improvenieit. Let it be generally known that the indirect resources of
this country are ample to relieve the inhabitants from all apprehension of
direct taxes ; that the proceeds of all the waste lands of the Crown are ap
propriated to create a sinking fund for the education of youth and no other
purpose, an 1 few can predict the consequences which it would produce. The
very idea would go farther to command capital and emigration, and insure
the rapid and steady prosperity of the country than any other measm-e yet
proposed. With these few brief remarks I -will close, with a hope that the
short time at my command will claim indulgence for not explaining the
mitter more fully and ably. ,
" I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,
" W. H. MERRITT.
He further showed his appreciation by joining, in a semi-official capacity,
the administration of public works. "Kingston, May 8, 1844.
" As you have, from the comments of the Board of Works, expressed a
strong desire to avail yourself of my local knowledge and experience in con
ducting the public works in Canada, the time has now arrived when it can
be done mutually beneficial to the public as well as myself

273
" The removal of the seat of Governmont from Upper Canada to Montreal
will greatly increase the inconvenience already experienced, the powers being
concentrated at so gi-eat a distance froni the spot where it must be exercised,
" The reinedy proposed, as the contemplated alteration in the Act can
not be attained for soma time, is to appoint, under tha present Board, some
person to superintend all the works west of the Niagara River.
"In the first place, this poi-tion, although most remote from Montreal,
is the most important, inasmuch as the entire trade of the whole Province
depends on the quantity wo may divert from the western country, which of
itself is sufficient to occupy the entire attention of one mind.
" The duty of this sup,^rvision can ba clearly defined, and the possibility
of collision on it avoided. The engineers continue to report, esti
mate, and pay contractors, as heretofore, on all contracts heretofore entered
into, but every new m-atter or unforeseen obstacle arising, to ba raferrel to
the individual on the spot, and a regular report made thereon, assigning the
reasons for or against, for the approval or rejection of the Board, a record of
which will be entered into a book, to be kept for the purposa, once in eaoli
month, " The money now paid weekly to the banks by the collectors, a state
ment of which is fumished the Receiver General, should be returned monthly
' to that office by each collector, and thence to the Inspector General, as well
as the Board of Works. The object is to secure a check from the local in
formation required, which cannot exist under the present systerii.
" This duty should also extend to the Grand River navigation, with a
view of devising means to finish that work to Brantford ; to the Queenston
and Grimsby road, and thence to Hamilton — to bring forward a bill and
propose means to finish that work also.
" The economy of this arrangement will be tested by experience — th©
increase of revenue, which will not be less than £25,000 this year, paid to
the public chest, over and above charges, hydraulic rents, kc ' The saving
of expenditure in police, law costs, postage, and other items, will in the
aggregate form no inconsiderable sum.
" The convenience of an immediate reference will be highl}^ satisfactoiy.
The books removed by the late Inspector General should be returned at
once, as the greatest inconvenience is expei-iencod almost daily for want of
referring to matters there recorded, and can refer to no other public matter
than the Welland Canal. There can be no possible advantage to the public
service by removing those books to Montreal. The stock books are of no
consequence, now that evei-y shareholder, except two or three, are settled in
Canada. " You are aware that I have spent almost my entire time since 1836 in
affording such information as was required, gratuitously. That informa
tion has been considered serviceable on many occasions. My circumstances
are now altered. I can no longer afford to lose my time. It cannot be
employed so usefully for the public, or agreeably to myself in any other
situation, and as far as regards individual claims, if those works are reallj'
useful or beneficial to the Pro'vince, it will be conceded with one accord
throughout the land that I am personally, entitled to consideration ; therefore,
if you think the public interest will be promoted by this arrangement, it
raay be carried into operation immediately. Truly yours,
"Hon. H. H. Killaly. W. HAMILTON MERRITT.

274
The replies show that the greatest confusion was the result of Lord
Sydenham's arrangement, and having the whole of the public works con
ducted by one office, and the head officer not independent of the change of
Ministi-v. Kingston, May 21, 1844.
" 3Iy Dear Sir : — I am in receipt this day of yours of the 19th. I
have not heard one syllable since you went of our proposed arrangement.
I have asked two or three times, indeed, pressed it as much as I could, but
^ Could do nothing until the Council, with Draper, deliberates on it, &c.,'
is the answer.
" Every thing is as you left it. Harrison is down again, but very UI—
the same rumor of his taking office.
" Sherwood is hare, j^ressing, I am told, the Governor to appoint his
Council before he goes down, oth'jr.vise he is to ba visited by the direful
indignation of his party.
" All is wrong ; all topsy-turvy. God knows where it will end. I will
"write 3'ou when anything occurs.

" Faithfully yours,
" H. H. KILLALY.

" W. Hamilton Merritt."

"Montreal, July 3, 1844.
" ]My Dear Sir : — I have just received your very welcome letter. Since
I wrote to you last I have not heard one word on the subject, although I
have seen Higginson daily and have pressed him on it. I will make it a
point to see him this day aud have it at once fixed. The principle being
adopted, I cannot conceive what stops the carrying out of it. As to the
points :
" 1st — Letter of introduction, kc It shall be done the moment I have
Higgiiisoii's authority, officially or otherwise.
" 2nd — I will see to the appointment.
¦' 3rd — Wilkinson left this for the Welland two days ago, and I have
not the slightest apprehension that his work will be the cause of delaj'.
••4th — Welland Book — shall be done.
" I am glad to hear poor Power is recovering. All kinds of rumors.
Draper and Sherwood aie here. Tlie report principally is that Daly goes
out. This I think will be, as he has been told often enough that he is the
obstacle i.i\l stumbling block to the formation of any Ministry. Then that
the greater part of the Counc'l are to be Lower Canadians, who wUl be
assisted by the Conservatives, and thus beat what are called the Reformers. ,
" I trust such an attempt as this will not be made. I do not believe
Lafontaine will accept without Baldwin, and I do not believe Baldwin will
throw ofi' his party, and without them I do not believe any Ministry can be
formed to last.
" I came down the Rapids — all night's ride for once, but as a channel of
trade ! ! ! This will, I have no doubt, be abundant proof of the wisdom and
trath of the old sa,3-ing, ' The pitcher which goes often to the well is broken
at la it.'
" Have you seen how Wakefield figures ? £7,500 for workin"- out the
sale of the property ; £12,500 for working out the Canal ! Where did this
i^o to ? And I sni)pose as much if he got the Company formed.

275
" We are getting on grandly all along the St. Lawrence. We will pass
boats through to Beauharnois in June next. We will be in a very good
-way on all the others this season. " Yours with esteem, faithfully,
" H. H. KILLALY.
" W. H. Merritt."
The following indicates the remedy used : — .
"Toronto, Aug, 18, 1844.
¦" My Dear Sir : — As you are now Manager of the Welland Canal, I
hope you will urge on the back ditches, especially that from Broad Creek to.
Marshville, north of the Canal. " Yours faithfully,
"H, BOULTON.
" W. H. Merritt."
This is copied in Mr. Merritt's hxndwriting, alludas to the principal
measure he effected, viz., securing a bonus to the contractors for going on with
and opening this work :
'¦'Sir: — From the interest you have hitherto taken in this cause, we, the
contractors for completing the locks between Thorold and St. Catharines,
have taken the liberty to request you to represent the situation of this work
to the Board.
"Our contracts expire on the 1st November next. Tha Board, and the
public expect those looks to ba finished and in readiness before the opening
ofthe navigation in 184.5. .The past Winter has been most unfavorable for
procuring the delivery of stone ; we are pressed for money; wages for labor
have increased; provisions, and also the material which is indispensable for
the works; and if, by unusual exertion, we are enabled to fulfil the pub
lic expectation, it must lead to increased expense,
"Nevertheless, feeling the importance of meeting the views of the Board,
and relieving the public, not only from the expense of keeping up the old
locks another year, but of insuring an increase of toll, we will pu.sli the work
-with a vigor heretofore unexampled, if a reasonable encouragement is held
eut for the same, and will engage to surmount all dilfioulty, and have, it in
readiness by the 1st April. Yours,  ¦
The following is Mr. Marritt's maniorandum of proceedings on the new
¦work : —
"Commenced Monday 22nd July, answered Mr. Daley's letter and put
myself in communication with the Chairman of the Board of Works.
" Notified Messrs. Powell and Prescott that I had accepted tha situation,
-also Mr. Burford the contractor.
"It appears to be most desirable to secure the completion of tha harbours
.and the new locks so as to open the navigation on 1st April next on the
enlarged scale.
"Consulted Page as to increasing the number of men, waste weirs must
be put under contract, lock gates in readiness &c.
" Wednesday, 24. Ascertained from Mr. Barnard that he was willing to
render Mr. Thompson every assistance after completion of his locks, which
would take three months more.

276
"Signs of further disturbance among the men appe,ired on Sunday.
" Ascertained from Collier in case we fail to complete the new line, the-
state of locks on the old line, and what will be the expense of ] r^paring them,.
for a few months, for spring i.avigaticn, 2 locks at Allanburgl. to be renewed
and extended, aqueduct^to be repaired ; this is all that is necessary.
"With regard to the supply from C4rand River level in place of Lake
Erie, the Grand River dam should be made perfectly tight at cnce, raise all
the embankments, including Port Colborne, frcm Dunnville to Allanbur^^h.
" Monday, 29th. Examined with Mr. Powers the line of canal, in- '
spected gates, waste-weirs, kc
"To Carmichael T. French, to get another machine immediately.
"Frif^ay, Aug. 1. Pa.'^sed up the line with Rev. Mr. ^Mfl'cr.cugh, a ircm-
ber of men having met previously at Thorold and made threats. Called on
most of the contractors, enquired into the assaults said to have been ccn:mit-
ted, remained several days, Issued a warrant, no person upi eaied to convi.it,
the prisoner dismissed, inferred no danger,
"Sept. 13. The ir.ost unexampled activity ccntinnes on this v.ork,.
seven locks are already finished letween this and Thorold, twelve others will
be finished by the end of the month, leaving- only a few courses on four to.
complete tha whole twenty-three. SG9,000 tolls to 1st August.
"Retumirg to the subject ofthe Ministry, he addresses the Premier :
" St. Catharines, Aug. 14, 1844.
"My Dear Sir : — Having been unpleasantly harrassed by those inter
minable law suits, with some few indispensable canal matters, not a moment
fcince my last has been left to devote to those of public j^olicy. An
other and principal reason for the delaj" arose from the confident assertions
of those arriving from Montreal that the Ministi-y had been formed, which,
as far as either j'ou or myself were concerned, wonld have rendered any sug
gestions useless. However, frcm your letter in June, I had no reason to
suppose any hasty c'.ecisicn would be b.ad. In reviewing- tie situation of
our country we must not misunderstand the existing state of public feeling.
A statesman will then decide, if adverse, whether he has reasonable grounds,.
from anj' measuie tl;at he has matured, that he can change that feeling —
and that, too, in sufficient time to meet ti,e Legislature, ensure a majority,
and conduct his Government in accordance v,-itli the principles now fully
admitted. "Referring to j ast trarsactions, or attempting to adduce a single reason
to prove who was right cr wrong, or what measure should or should not
have been adopted, would be a waste of time. Matters and things should
be taken as we find them. Whatever change maj- have taken place in pub
lic opinion or feeling in Lower Canada, it is generally supposed that in
Upper Canada it has been in favor of tlie Ministry. If so, what is to be
gained by calling the present House together ? Will it not rather produce
irritation, widen the breach (if possible), and do mucn haim.
" This position being- admitted, the only chance of producing a change is
by a dissolution, and procuring the return of other members, although if in
truth no change has actually taken place in iiublic feeling, the same result
must follow. Whatever effect appointing a coimnission to investigate and
recommend a change in our financial system would heretofore have produced,
so fully are men's minds engrossed with one idea — the apprehension of
losing responsible Government, and that his Excellency is opposed to the

277
prinsipla, anl ths lata Ministry in favor of it, that now no maasure ho waver
bsnetiaiiil will di.'ert.them; aud any m.in attempting to controvert it will, in
m3st constituanaias, lose thair coiifilanaa,
" If this ba a correct st;ita,nmt of public feeling, what is the remedy 1
Nj statasmm can ra3om.nmd a deviation from this principle, therefore a
mijority in the raprasaiit.itive branch in'.ist ba sec ired. We find that diffi
culties, appearing in--;urm3untable, hiva baen removed, and what has baen,
can again be effected.
"In looking back a few years, we find, in the adjoining country, the
population in a state of civil war. All attempts at conciliation had failed.
One master mind, Henry Clay, proposed a compromise. His celebrated
Aot produced a m.igical effect, tranquillity was restored, and he is now
about reaping his reward.
" During the administration of Lord Sydenham, circumstances placed
you in the most responsible and conspicuous Situation in the Government.
You found the House of Assembly, before even proceeding to business, de
termined on having a clear and distinct avowal of the principle on which
the Government was hereafter to be conductad. Contrary to your own
feelings aud judgment you consented, restored tranquillity, and by means
of that concession conducted the Government against, or without either Mr.
Baldwin or the leaders of that large and compact body of Lower Canadians
being in the Government.
" Circumstances placed you in a similar situation during the administra
tion of Sir Charles Bagot. You than felt it nacessai-y to bring that party
into power, and to effect which you resigned the honor and emoluments of
office, and again restored harmony. Circumstances have for the third time
placed you in a similar although far more delicate position. If you can again
restore harmony, if you feel satisfied that a majority could be secured, unless
Messrs. Lafontaine and Baldwin are restored, which was your first impres
sion, you deserve a civic crown, and will assuredly reap your reward. I
am aware of the difficulty which must at every stage meet you in attempting
it. If his Excellency would listen to any arrangement, the obstecle would
vanish in a moment. Could furnish a letter disavowing any iilpntion, ex
plaining away misapprehension, making all discrepancies satisfactory.
The whole aff.iir would blow over within ten days. Let us, divested of all
personal feeling, take an enlarged and statesmanlike view of this question.
Sdppose those gentleman restarad, and suppose, (which I do not baliava) they
Vtive to show the least vanity, or exult in the event, how long would it last
on this side of the Atlantic 1 Their capacity is to be tested by the success
of their measures, and there must be a speedy change. Sir Charles would
thus prove his adherence to the principles he has advocated, and would be
come the most popular governor that ever ruled a colony. What effect
would it produce in England 1 Not the slightest to his disadvantage. The
Government and the people there look only to the result ; they can know
nothing of details, and care less. Relieve them from trouble, establish
contentment, and they are satisfied! Sir Charles would be considered, and
justly, too, a statesman, who, with the most discordant materials, placed
himself above all personal feeling, and will leave the country in perfect
harmony and in the most prosperous condition. Believe me, I entertain
thestrongest personal feeling for the Governor General, and on this account,
apart from the desire of witnessing harmony among my countrymen, am
•extremely desirous he should return to England crowned with success,

278
" There are many, I am aware, who take a narrow view of public mea
sures, and rather than not carry a point would never concede an iota.
Judging from the paft, this is not your character, neither is it that of the
Governor General. All I can add in conclusion is, that if you think it
necessary and feasible, I would be most happy to be instrumental in any
way you may point out in bringing it 'ibout. t fully concur in the opinions
expressed in your last, which induced me to pen the above.
" Very truly yours,
" W, HAMILTON MERRITT.
" Hon. W, H, Draper."
Journal, Aug. 30: "A Ministry at last, it is said in a P. S. to the Pilot,
the use of the last name in the list places it in the category of rumours."
TMs was Mr. M., Inspector General. The author, who was a passenger
on the Britannia, heard this rumour, while stopping a few hours in Halffax.
When the Government assumed the control of the Canal, Mr. Merritt
wrote to his Grace the Duke of Wellington, informing him of the act, and
t .'lling him that the sum originally subscribed by him towards the Canal
-would now be repaid, with interest. At the same time he reminded his
Grace of the circumstances of his first signing for the old stock, which was
clone as an example to others in London, and our subject now politely hmted
that if he would transfer the amount to the Grantham Academy, wMch
much needed it, the name of the institution would be changed to that of
Wellington. By means, not necessary to explain here, either Chief Justice
Robinson or the Bishop of Toronto had made a prior application, and the
result was that the money was bestowed for the founding of the Wellington
Scholarship in King's College, Toronto. " Walmer Castle, Seist. 28, 1844.
" Sir :^I received in due -time the letter which you were so kind as to
address m^n the 20th of February last, on the subject of the stock held by
me in the Welland Canal, and your suggestion as to its disposition.
" Having corresponded witli Chief Justice Robinson on the same subject,
he has remitted to me another letter from you to himself, dated the 10th of
July, and the act of the Legislature by which the Grantham Academy was
incorporated. " Upon the whole, however, it has occurred to me that the most suitable
disposition which I could make of the stock belonging to me in the Welland
Canal, was to authorize the sale of it, and with the proceeds thereof to found
a scholarship in the King's College, Upper Canada. I have given direc
tions and authority accordingly to Mr. Chief Justice Robinson.
"I avail myself of this opportunity of returning you my thanks for
drawing my attention to the interest which I had in the Welland Canal,
" I have the honor to be, sir,
" Your most obedient humble servant,
" WELLINGTON,
" W. Hamilton Merritt, St. Catharines."
It will not be out of place to introduce an incident, though unwit
tingly, with which the author was connected.

279
There were few men of his time more capable of taking hold of an idea
and working it to a practical conclusion than our subject, as the folio-wing
simple though important narrative will illustrate. We have already men
tioned two of his sons, the author and William, being left at European univer
sities to complete their education. We may therefore state that it was cus
tomary for Mr. Merritt to take an occasional holiday, and convey his family
into the country, thereby resting his mind as well as body, and gathering
fresh energies for each forthcoming event. A favorite resort of his -« as on
or near the banks of the Niagara River, near where the town of Clifton rthers
called Elgin) now stands. At no period of the year did he enjoy this trip
better than when our beautiful Indian Summer first set in and began to
adorn the foliage with which the banks of this river is covered, lending an
enchantment to the scenery, which, to ba^thoroughly apjjreciated, must Ijo
observed at this time. Going off from St. Catharines for this purpose -with
the members of his family, a.s we may suppose, he called at the Post Office
before going, and received a package from Europe which he carried along with
him to read at his leisure there. On arriving there, the usual pic-nic
an-angements were made, and the annual simple feast was spread, after
which, when peace and quietness pervaded the party, the foreign letter
was produced, and proved to be from the travellei's, who were then visiting
Fribourg in Switzerland. Amongst the many wonders of the strange land
of Tell, it told their parents of a wonderful suspension bridge which they
had seen spanning the River Sarren in the midst of a. mountainous country.
A full description of it followed — its length, its height, and the manner of
its construction were all minutely detailed. [Mrs. M. remarked: "I wonder
if a suspension bridge could not be made to span this river,"] So strongly
did the remark impress the mind of our subject that the idea at once
occurred to him of the possibility of spanning the mighty Niaga'r'a with just
such a bridge. Soon afterwards a consultation with engineers followed.
Laughed at by some, and favored by others, still the idea grew, and the
ultimate result is a bridge across this river, not such as described at Sarrenj
but one of a magnitude surpassing all others, of which we will have reason
to speak hereafter.
The author on his return, was sent up with S. Woodruff, Engineer, to
ascertain the shortest line for a suspension bridge across the Niagara.
On the 23rd of September, Parliament was dissolved, and preparations
at once made for a new election. Mr, Pi.ykert opposed our subject, but he
was again returned by 150 majority.
On Friday, 18th October occurred one of the severest storms experienced
on Lake Erie. The piers of Port Colbome, among other ports were partially
destroyed. But the focus of the storm appeared to concentrate on Buf
falo, where the loss of .$200,000 worth of property, and 30 or 40 lives
attested to its destructive powers.

280
It was succeeded, at the end of the month, by a snow storm, and Mrs.
Merritt noticed that on the Tuesday of the election, Mr. M. attended in a
sleigh. On the 12th of November, on his farm near Port Colbome, died the cousin
«f Our subject, known on the canal, from its commencement, as an honest
And popular contractor. The fevers in the Cranberry Marsh, no doubt,
laid the foundation of ill-health. Had he remained on his faim near St.
¦Catharines it might not have occurred.
On the 2 8 th of November the House opened, and again the ofi'er of Inspector
General in the new Ministry was made to Mr. Merritt, which he declined.
It was then given to Mr. W. B. Robinson, who had been Superintendent
ofthe Welland Canal; Mr. Merritt having taken his place on the same, as he
believed that by so doing he -^Mould, under the circumstanees, be of raore
use to the country.
In December he renewed his measure of retrenchment, and published an
elaborate view of the resources of Canada, comparing them with the State
of New York, wherein he showed that with a larger revenue our expeiwes
were in excess of theirs, and what was required of our Admimstration, and
strongly urging retrenchment — the present Ministry, any more than the old,
not agreeing with him on those questions, which he showed would relieve
the people from direct taxation. This was one of his reasons for decUniuff
the proffered seat in the Cabinet. This pubHoation of his views, however,
resulted in the Government adopting his policy, and his being called mto
the Ministry four years afterwards.
Commencing this session a protest against his election was sent in, in conse
quence of his Government engagement on the Canal. It was tried in the
House, but having proved that Tie did not receive a salary for this ser-vice,
however much he needed it, the protest was quashed.
The following extracts, copied from the election trials, show that Mr.
Merritt had more honor than profit and no little risk in his connection
with the Draper administration. H. H. Killaly interrogated :
"A salary of £500 per annum having been attached to the office men
tioned in your letter to Mr. Secretary Daily, and Mr. Merritt having accept
ed the same, do you know why the same or any portion thereof was not
drawn by Mr. Merritt ? I cannot tell, it was never applied for.
"I conceived a larger portion of the business to be performed by Mr.
Merritt was more connected with the Inspector General's department, but
that he did discharge some of the duties of the Board of Works under the
appointment in question."

281
1845.
During his attendance at the session in ilontreal, he was requested by
the Mercantile Library Associ-ation of that city to deliver an address on
" The Trade and Commerce of Canada." His lecture was well attended,
and the sentiments enunciated warmly received, accompanied by a vote of
thanks at the close. The following is a familiar letter to Mrs. M,:
"I am living as quietly as possible with Mr. Barrett. Mrs, B, is making
me as comfortable as she can ; coffee every day at dinner, have not drank
two glasses of strong water since my arrival in Montreal,, and wine only
twice. " February 8th. To the author — I presume the article to which you
refer on the finance of Prance is in Thiers' History, as I am not a moment "out
of the House, have no tirae to examine. I regret exceedingly, however, that
I did not bring all the publications sent by Dr. King, including the school
master. What has become of all my pamphlets V
Mrs. Prendergast died at St, Catharines on the 1st day of February,
A letter to his bereaved father-in-law from the Legislature, March 3d
containing messages of sympathy closes with his own pursuits : —
" My habits have become so sedentary, I shall (God willing) retire from
public life in a very few years. I am preparing a measure of moment, viz:
the appropriation of all our waste lands to create a fund to support common
schools, and establish district libra-:ies throughout the province. The plan
is alluded to in my pamphlet, which appears to be well spoken of in all parts
ofthe province, except among officials."
During this session St. Catharines was incorporated into a town, to the
great satisfaction of the inhabitants, who expected important results, which
were only accompanied with an expense by them often afterwards regretted.
He also took an active part on the Crown Lands Committee, and re
commended their being the monetary basis of our Common School system,
instead of their being supported by annual tax as at present.
" Goverx.ment House, March 13, 1845.
" My Dear Sir, — I have had the pleasure of communicating your note
to the Governor General, and I am" desired to assure you that His Excel
lency is fully sensible of the great labour and ]3ains that you have bestowed
upon the very important question as! to the future disposal of the waste
lands of the Crown. His Excellency conceived that your proposition was
under the consideration of the Executive Council, from your being in com-
nmnioation with some of its members ; but he will again call their atten
tion to it. I am, dear Sir,
" Yours faithfully,
"Hon. W. H. Merritt, M. P. P. j\ M, HIGGINSON."
That the value of the services of our subject as a working member,
though in a tory House is evinced by the number and importance of the com
mittees he was on.

282
April 3. Committee on crown lands report, W. H. Merritt, chairman,
A letter was received that at the close of the Legislature he would
meet Mrs. Merritt in Brooklyn. While here, the following from the author
announced their having arrived :
" I have amused myself while in New York by looking up American
antiquities, and was led in my search more particularly into observing the
locality of our ancestors in the neighbourhood, affording r.ot only the his
tory and trials of the old times, but casting the charm of personal interest
over the early history of the settlers — in fact rendering our own the rise
and progress of the American democracy."
Mr. Merritt, writing from Montreal to Mrs. Merritt on his travels, on
2nd April, closes p.s follows :
" The session has ended, I fear, without doing as much as we should
for the good of our fellows, but prospects are cheering nevertheless. As
you are no j^olitician, I have nothing amusing to communicate. It was my
intention to have returned by way of Albany to meet you, but the roads
are so intolerably bad that I am compelled to go up river.
" 12th. Not getting a steamer, have gone up by land, as far as Toronto ;
was two nights in an open wagon, and the last in a snow stom."
With regard to the suit in which he was engaged, a letter of March 8,.
from his son Thomas, who was in company with Mr, Jas. R. Benson, says :
" We have heard the unpleasant result of the partnership in Toronto."'
This decision of Chief Justice Robinson, involving our subject in all the
losses of J. Mittleberger <fe Co,, renders it necessary for him to hurry home,
and make preparrtion for a loss of all his property ; and on his return, in
the middle of April, his first business was to Mayville, where Dr, Prender
gast promised him all the assistance he might require.
May 1. Appears for the last time, after nineteen years, our subject's
name to the list of advertised letters, and that of the author for nearly as
long a period, signals these items in the Journal.
29th. Letter to G. P. Ridout on differential duties.
On the 29th of March the House being prorouged, Mr. M. returned ;
and soon afterwards, on the tenth of May, the works on the new Canal
were successfully completed and the water let in, bringing on the route a
large and noble-looking class of vessels and propellers, which carried num
bers of emigrants to the Western States.
In answer to an invitation to witness the opening of the new canal
on the Slst of JMay Mr, Burwell, an old friend of our subject, wrote to
Mr, Merritt a letter of congratulation on the successful results of his long
and unwearied canal agitation. He also enclosed an old document, drawn
by Mr. Merritt twenty-seven years previously, and left with Mr. Burwell,
when a member of Parliament, wherein our subject showed his original plan
of a canal, and modestly asked for a grant from the country to assist the
surveys. This survey is related at large in the earlier pages of this book;

283
Mr. Merritt's idea of the great Suspension Bridge had by this time-
arrived at maturity. A charter was to be obtained, stock subscribed, and
preparations made for its commencement.
He writes, June 2nd, a long letter to Mr. Ridout on the advantages of
having tugs on the St. Lawrence, a criticism of which is noticed in the
/owrwa^ of June 12 :
The editor of the Examiner has indulged us with five columns of criticism-
on Mr, Merritt's letter. We confess an inability of discovering any argu
ment whatever, and our time does not admit of lengthy replies to
mere verbage, and it was only answered by our subject when reiterated in
Francis Hinck's paper, the Pilot.
In June a company was formed in Montreal to build a railway to con
nect it with Portland. Mr. George Moffat was the President, and through
him £300 was offered to Mr. Merritt if he would visit Europe and endeavor
to sell the Company's stock. Our subject accepted the offer conditionally,
.and received letters of introduction from the Govemor to the Colonial
Secretery, but afterwards could not agree with the views of the Company,.
and rehnquished the mission, which was then undertaken by Mr. Gait.
The success of this gentleman in England induced Sir Allan McNab and
Mr, Widder, of the Canada Co,, to start on a similar one in connection with
the Great Western Railway project. They were not successful at this time,
so the scheme had to rest for a few years longer.
"St. Catharines, June 16, 1845.
" My Dear Sir : — The committee, to whom the management of the
St. Lawrence and Atlantic Railroad is entrusted, have requested me to pro
ceed forth-with to England. I have assented, provided the Provincial Gov
ernment will recommend certain changes, which are indispensable, and can
be better explained in a personal interview. I have this day written to
Mr. Higginson on the subject, and only await his reply to proceed direct to
Montreal. " The Drawback Bill, which removes all duty on articles passing through
the UMted States for Canadian consumption, is not at present adapted to-
•the trade, but no doubt ¦will be amended next year. If in addition to this,
they removed the duty on our products, which we must look for, what would
have been tho situation of our trade this year 1 They would command our
entire exports. You have now the ball at your foot, and if the Provincial
Government have not already made all the communications nece'ssary, you
have still an opportunity to do so, and not only preserve our present trade,
but greatly increase it ; and I feel quite satisfied the Imperial Government
will not only sanction any measure necessary to preserve our present trade,
but enable you to become prepared to increase it, on tho completion of our
public works. It requires no Imperial legislation. A slight change in the
Provincial Act would effect the object.
" I am, my dear sir,
" Your obedient servant,
" Hon. W. H. Draper. W. HAMILTON MERRITT.

284
A proposition to form a company to run a line in connection with
the States, from Queenston to Hamilton, was now first mooted.
The Beauharnois Canal, a grand work, being also opened, Mr. Merritt,
had a long correspondence with the Government in regard to the establish
ment of an extensive tug system for the Lakes and the River St. Lawrence.
We have already noticed that a charter bad been granted in 1836 for a
railroad from the Niagara to the Detroit River, in which our subject was
interested. Owing to the troubled state of the country no action was taken
in the matter, and at this period the time of the charter had nearly expii-ed.
Mr. Merritt thought it a fitting opportunity to attempt to revive the scheme,
and consequently opened a correspondence with some of the leading capital
ists in Boston. Meeting with encouragement, he made a personal visit,
explained the scheme, and was agreeably surprised to find tha leading cajii-
talists there in perfect accord. The stock was instantly taken up, and in
fluential contractors, who were also large stockholders, agreed to finish the
work within the time and before the expiration of the charter. It would,
however, seem that things which are easily obtained are not so apt to be
successful, and our subject, who had been promised support in getting a re
newal of the charter by his political friends, now advised a delay, which
proved fatal to the scheme, as it stopped the railroad development of Ca
nada another decade, and then not on a rational or consequently remune-
i-ative plan. The next Parliament offered a violent opposition, from distant
quarters off the line north of Lake Ontario and Lower Canada. The capi
talists alluded to at once invested their money in the South Shore route, a
line which from the start took the lead and has since continued to keep
it, rendering its Canadian rivals, which came later into the field, unprofit
able speculations to all interested.
" The opposition to Mr. ilerritt's railroad sclieme exhibits itself thus,
in the Toronto Colonist of July 3rd :— ' Mr. W. H. Merritt, M. P. P., has
i.ieen for some time past in the United States, and from the contents of a
printel pamphlet entitled ' Sundry Documents relative to the Niagara and
Detroit Railroad,' we learn that Mr. Merritt's influence in New York, Bos
ton and other places is being used to forward that undertaking. The Nia- '
gara and Detroit Railway will ba essentially a work, if carried out, for the
ben ft of American travelers, offeiing no particuLar advantage to the Province
through -v^hioli it will pass, but the great disadvantage that it will be along
the line of an extended frontier, without protection, and entirely at the
mercy of our neighbours. Mr. Merritt takes good care to point out, when
addressing at Black Rock the committee from Albany, that the charter is
liberal. Mr. Merritt knew the parties he was addressing. If they take
up the work with the characteristic spirit and energy of the Yankees, when
there is not only a fair prospect, but a proximate certainty of its being good
stock, there is no doubt but they will manage to carrj' it out speedily to
completion. The agency of Mr. Merritt, who is very well known amongst
them, is no trifiing stimulant to immediate action. The attention of our
Toronto and Sarnia Road ought to be at once directed to tliis matter."

285
"Whereas it has been represented to the undersigned, by an Act incor
porating the Niagara and Detroit River Railroad Company, passed by the
Provincial Legislature in 1836, to which about £7,500 of stock was sub
scribed, directors chosen, an instalment paid in, the route surveyed, and
plans and reports extensively circulated — that in common with all similar
works, in consequence of the disturbed state of the Province in 1837, this
was also suspended, but has again been renewed with a fair prospect of suc
cess. " This Act, which will expire on the 20th April next, authorizes the
construction of either a wooden or iron railway. The flrst can be laid in
time to secure the charter, but the shareholders prefer constructing an iron
rail of the most durable description ; to effect which, an extension of two
years, and a revenue of £250,000 will be required. As it is important the
shareholders should ascertain as early as possible whether any objection is
likely to be made to their application, and as no precedent within our
knowledge exists where a similar application has been refused, we will
cheerfully support the same.
" John Bruce, President ; Joseph Wood, E. Ermatinger, James Cum
mings, J. W. Powell, and Wm. Hamilton Merritt and Rolland Macdonald
gave their assurance."
Extract from Mr. M.'s private journal, in the interest of a railroad
across our peninsula to New York, for which he set out Lst July :
" July 12th. Met C. C. Trowbridge of Detroit, called on Jacob Riddle,
president of the New York and Albany Railroad, Garden G. Howland, presi
dent of the Utica Railroad, Davis, Brooks and Co., Sedam and Sage, W. B.
Astor. " 21st, The last day in New York, Met with Mr. Fisk, president of
the Long Island Railroad, and James J. Shipman, the engineer, who con
structed it at a cost of $8,500 a mile, he thinks as good a road, similarly
situated, can be made for $7,500 a mile.
"Some of the names in Boston, with whom we transacted business, were
the Hon. George Bliss of Springfield, president of the Western Railway,
Joseph Quincy, Thayer and Bro., Francis Young, A. Gilmour, W. F. Wild,
A. Lawrence, Before leaving Boston, wrote to Mr. Power to ascertain the
width of the Niagara River, having ascertained that that of Freiburg,
byChalley of Lyons, was 981 feet long, 22 wide, 181 high above the water.
The one on the Mersey is 580 feet long, 25 wide, 130 above the water.
"Boston, July 24, 1845.
"Wm. Hamilton Merritt, Esq.,
"My Dear Sir : — I have examined your plans and estimates for a rail
road from Buffalo to Detroit, and such is my opinion of the prefect that I
shall be happy to take two hundred shares in the stock.
" I do this because it establishes a direct line of communication between
New England and Chicago ; because it increases the value of every railroad
between Boston and Buffalo ; because it unites us with our brethren in Ca
nada m a common interest and a common object ; and because I have no
doubt of its being an excellent investment. This last reason, like a lady's
postscript, I presume you will think the most weighty consideration.^ But
I can assure you it is secondary to the desire I feel, in common with my
fellow citizens, of uniting in closer bonds the kindred nations on the two
sides of the St. Lawrence, Niagara and Detroit. These communications

286
v.ill bring us together, and I cannot doubt as we know one another more
we shall like one onother better.
" p. S.  Mr. Bliss, the President of the Western Railroad, authorises
me to subscribe for two hundred shares on his account.
" I am very respectfully yours,
"JOSIAH QUINCY."
" Monday Aug. 18. Arrived home, met Col. Prince, and arranged a plan,
1st. To appoint some person to obtain a pledge of support and increase of
capital, and extend the time of completion to unite with Hamilton people,
appointed next Monday to meet the directors of the Hamilton road.
Whether they unite with us or not. Col. Prince was to call a meeting of
Directors, which I am to attend with full powers. Open books forth
with, pay Is. 3d. per share to secure an engineer tD establish a line and
where the junction must be made, write to J. Stanton to send power of at
torney for directors to save time, item, interest we have in St. Catharines
and Hamilton road.
"Tuesday 19th. Mr, Slater has ascertained the width of the Niagara
river to be 420 only. Obtain the right of land, and an act of the Legis
lature of New York State as well as Canada, to construct the same, with
the right of extending railroad to intersect any given point, to any railroad
now or hereafter to be made. The present object is mainly to unite Man
chester as far up as Chippawa, reaching the town of Niagara via St. Darids,
west to St. Catharinas and Hamilton.
"Slonday, 26tli. Visited Hamilton to meet directors of Great Western
Railwa}'. A resolution was proposed by Mr. Tiffany which did not suit
lis. Next dajr, Tuesday 27th, I proposed the following: —
"Thursday August 27th. I proposed the directors of the Great West
ern Railway unite their interests with the Niagara and Detroit River Rail
way, on the following terms: —
" Fiist, that a line be run to a point, where they diverge to Hamilton
and Buffalo by the shortest and most direct route. That in case the above
be agreed to, subscription books shall be opened immediately at Detroit,
Canada, the terminus of the Great Western Road, in the States and Boston,
Sir A. McNab apprised of the amount, the remainder to be obtained by him
to finish both, estimated at §5,000,000. " Great Western Railroad Office,
Hamilton, 28th August, 1845.
'' W. H. Merritt, Esq., St. Catharines : —
" Sir, — I am instructed by the Board of Directors for the Great West
ern Railroad Company to communieate to you the following resolution
adopted by them at their meeting this da}^ which they hope will prove
satisfactory to the stockholders and others interested in the " Niagara and
Detroit Rivers Railroad Company :
" Resolved, That the termination of the Great Western Railroad on the
Niagara River shall be at or near Fort Erie, and that the point of intersec
tion between that branch and the main trunk from Hamilton to Windsor
shall be at such place as on proper investigation will be found most con
ducive to the interests of the stockholders.
(Signed,) -'G. S. TIFFANY, Chairman."
" I have the honor th be your most Obedient servant,
"J. P. GILKISON, Secretary."

287 " St. Catharines, Aug, 31, 1845.
<'To J, P- GiLKisoN, Esq., Sec'y Great Western R. R. Co.:
" Dear Sir, — I delayed replying to your communication of the 28th
instant until hearing from Mr. Tiffany, whose letter reached me by last post,
and only reflects the condition of the Directors of the G. W. R. Co.
" The Resolution proposed did not, in my judgment, clearly and fully
mee': the intention of the parties. I therefore proposed the following :
" Resolved, That the Directors of the Great Western Railroad Company
agree to unite their interests with the Niagara and Detroit Rivers Railroad
Company on the following terms : — First, that a line be run from Detroit
to a pomt where they can diverge to Hamilton and Buffalo on the shortest
and bast route. That in case the above be agreed to, we will join.
" My reasons for preferring the latter, is, that it places the two compa
nies on precisely the same footing. Without this recognition, any attempt
at negotiation would be idle. It also, clearly expresses the object and in
tention of diverging as soon as practicable from Detroit — which will be in
the vicmity of Burford (as we suppose) and the stock will be subscribed
with this view." I am, dear sir, yours, &c.
"WM. H. MERRITT."
A map was got out showing their line to run frorn Toronto to Sarnia
intersected by the Great Western at Guelph. This was followed by several
meetings in Toronto and Hamilton, and by the sending of F. Widder and
Sir A, MaoNab, as before alluded to, to England by steamer of 16th Aug.,
in their joint interest, which, unfortunately for all concerned, they succeed
ed, not in getting stock, but in stopping Mr. Merritt's scheme, for which the
stock had already been provided.
Mr. Merritt and his friends were not inactive, as we see by an article
from the St. Thomas Standard, of October 2nd :
'¦ An intimation has been sent by Mr. Merritt that the stock can be pro
cured for the continuation of.the Niagara and Detroit Railroad, and request-
in" that the inhabitants on and near the road should petition for a renewal
ofthe charter, all to be sent to the meeting at Sandwich on the 26th inst."
This meeting took place at Sandwich, and was succeeded by others. The
Journal of 7th November says :
" A railroad meeting took place at Port Colborne, a,t which Lachlan
Bell and Mr. Parks made speeches, insisting on the necessity of petitioning
for a railroad charter and the taking of stock."
The following is the reply to Mr. Hincks' strictures regarding his pub
lications : "St. Catharine.s, Decembar 17th, 1845.
" To the Editor of the St^ Catharines Journal :
" Sir: My attention has been directed to an article in the Montreal Pilot,
of the 2nd, on the subject of the St Lawrence Canals, which, for gross
absurdity and misrepresentation, has seldom beeii equalled. The Editor
asserts that some scheme, the honor of originating which is attributed to
me, has been proposed by the Board of Trade in Montreal — "the professed
¦object of which is to reduce the cost of forwarding, a scheme just as tantali
zing to the public (should have been forwarders) as the one for getting an
increased grant for common schools.'

288
" The editor of the Pilot may continue to mislead a portion of the public
ft r a time  he may make them believe that continuing to waste the public
lands instead of creating a perpetual fund out of the proceeds thereof for
educating their children, is for their benefit that continuing the present
exorbitant prices for transportation, and banishing commerce from our
waters is/o/- their btnefif. He has been consistent in opposing this improve
ment since his first appearance in the Legislative Assembly, in 1841. One '
million of pounds has been expended, and no tolls w-ill be received next
year to pay tbe interest on this capital. He will witness the dearth his pen
has been lent to create. He ^vill pronounce the canals a failure — ridicule
the folly of those who advocated them, and exult in the fulfilment of his
predictions ; but the day of retribution will come — the line throughout
(however tardy) will be completed — the existing incubus on the commerce
of an entire country will be removed — the saving in the cost of transit, and
extension of commerce will be visible to all, and the public will then reahze
the wisdom ofthe niea.sure proposed."
Another on the same subject follows : " St. Catharines, Dec. 22, 1845.
"Sir — The impo^-tance and necessity of constructing a continuous towino-
path, or providing a steam power in lieu thereof, can only be realized by
contrasting the effects produced on different public works where they are pro
vided, and where they are not.
" First, witness the Welland Canal, connecting Lakes Erie and Ontario 
from the Grand River, 40 miles, on which a towing path is provided and
through which, with the aid of one pair of horses, a vessel can pass at the
expense of one half-penriyfor a barrel of fiour, and not exceeding one sMUinii
for a ton of goods. On the Erie (Janal — 366 miles from Buffalo to Albany 
the charge last teason was nine-pence per barrel. On the St. Lawrence 
130 to 200 miles, from Prescott or Kingston to jMcmtreal — the charo-e was
one-shilling and nine-pence, or including insurance, ttoo shillings per barrel
(tolls not included in either.) Thus we see the grower in Upper Car.adais
subject to an additional charge of at least one shilling and six-pence on every-
ton of merchandize consumed,
" As certain as like causes produce like effects, by supplyino- the entire
line with this continuous connection, this exorbitant tax would be removed -
but in order to leave no pretence for misunderstanding, I will proceed to
point out more in detail, the causes which have produced those excessive
prices. " First, control of canal under monopoly. Suppose the Government or
a company, were to construct a railroad between given points, and were to
permit one or two individuals to build or control the locomotive enoine or
steam power, the one being dependent on the other for passing the road,
they might as well give the whole. You would thmk the managers insane.'
Still, this is precisely the case with the St. Lawrence canals. The°forwarders
have the control of them as effectually as if they were constructed with their
own capital. They are a powepful and wealthy body, and have managed
to concentrate that power and wealth by a combination, which from its^re-
suits, proves they understood their own interests much better than those
entrusted with the management of the canal did those of the public."

289
The Governor hurried home, the victim of a mortal malady, regretted and
respected for his many virtues.

1846.
This year of war famine, as well as railroad competition, was one fraught
¦with great jeopardy to the permanent well being of the country, and con
sequently displaying an unusual amount of adroitness and energy for the
'representatives of the people.
A period of prosperity had for some time existed among our rural popu
lation, and as it was traced directly to the favourable position of their pro
ducts in the mother country, aided by the absence of most of the disaf
fected, the prospects,of a peaceable Colonial connection for an undetermined
period were hopefully indulged by our subject.
The greatest disquiet anticipated, was a peaceful rivalry with our inde
pendent but not more prosperous neighbors fli the carrying of our mutually
increasing productions. But the news transmitted from London (the capi
tal of the JBritish empire and monetary centre of the globe,) was that of
panic and uncertainty, produced primarily by the failure of the potato crop,
aided by war in India and New Zealand, with the prospect of on6 in Amer
ica, from the disputed boundary on its far off Paciflc border.
Returmng to the record of current events, we see in a private letter to
Mr. Draper, at the close of the year's work for which he was expressly
commissioned to see completed throughout, dated January 1st — he says :
" Only two locks will be necessary to pass the large class of vessels,
on finding they would not be done in November, I went down expressly to
insure the only method left, a winter's job. There still is time, but I have
lost all hope of halving them finished.
Regarding the . unfinished work on the wanal already alluded to, he
receives the following cheering intelligence : "January 24, 1846.
" My Dear Sir : — You will be glad to learn that at the eleventh hour
the work of enlargement is ordered by the Committee. The Govemment
have agreed to advance the sum — not to exceed £2,500. I was truly sick
ofthe whole business. The benefits were admitted ; but the question as to
whether they would not advance the paltry sum or was about to deprive
the country of them. " Yours faithfully,
" W. Hamilton Merritt. H. H. KILLALY."
We copy the following to show how our railroad stocks were first re
ceived on the London Stock Exchange, and how near to gambling the mode
in which business was there conducted.

290
From the London Times :
" Much praise has been bestowed in the city on a company entitled
' The Great Western of Canada,' which is about to wind up its affairs, and
proposes to return to the subscribers the whole amount received in premi
ums. This certainly looks well, but some, at least, of the parties interested
take a different view of the matter, as will appear by the annexed remarks
of a correspondent :
" In consequence of such names as Hudson, M. P., Masterman, Chaplin,
Moss and others equally influential, I was tempted to embark in the Great
Western of Canada Railway. The eleven directors take the 60,000 shares
themselves (ought they not to prove having paid the deposit t) and then
issue them to the public at a premium of £3 10s. I believe, indeed, that
only the personal friends of the directors got them at this price. Happen
ing to know two cases of a director sending his particular friends fifty shares
each, unasked for at this price, £3 10s. premium. It told me what the
director thought of them, and I purchased 300 shares at 4A premium. This
was the first* or second day of their being mentioned in the market, and I
am grieved to say my example induced friends to take 700 more, they pay
ing 5 premium. The panic comes, and down tumble the Canadians in
almost a few hours. But now comes my ground for complaint. The direc
tors have issued but 30,000 o^ the 60,000, having in reser-ve 30,000 for
which they connot find a market, and it is certain that they will get rid of
no more at 3^ premium. In this dilemma, it is said, they intend to give
back £1 15s. premium on each share; and when complaining to- one yes
terday of not having at least 2^ back, I was told I ought to consider my
self lucky at only losing £300 by the shares, and that the directors were
behaving most generously. He added as a reason why they could not give
back the 3 J premium, that they had given 10,000 shares to the ' house' —
a bribe, in fact, to the stock- brokers for puffing the concern. I consider
this dishonest; the public were told that 3^ premium was the only price
they could be obtained at, and it was on this supposition that I and others
purchased them. If the panic had not occurred, they would have pocketed
$175,000.' " They are still in hopes of getting a renewal of the charter for the Bertie
and Sandwich Road, as the following letters from his Buffalo and Windsor
correspondents, with the engineer's report show."
Buffalo, January 9th, 1846.
"My Dear Sir : — Judge Walden called on me last week with your note to
him, dated December Slst, in which you request me to procure and forward
to you the subscriptions to the stock of the N. and D. R. R. R. Company.
I enclose you here all hitherto made in this city. I have written to Judge
Whittlesey of Rochester, in whose hands I understand is the subscription
list for that section, and on its receipt, will send it to you. I am not aware
of any other subscription actually made for the road in the States, if any are
procured, I will also forward them as soon as received.
" I notice your request for subscriptions as rapidly as possible. On
this subject, I have communicated with Judge Walden repeatedly, Mr. Coe,
Opion Lee and others, who all agree that no attainable or effectual effort
can be made at present for the object, and therefore any attempt had better
be postponed until some future contingencies have been settled. They -wish.

291
" 1. To wait for the renewal of the charter by your Pirliament, and see
¦what are its conditions.
"2. To receive the report of the survey and estimate for the route.
" 3. The settlement of the temporary agitation of the Oregon question.
" 4. The temporary pressure of the money market, which in this State is
always close at this season from the necessity of Bank reports being made,
and cash of course being dull, one was of showing as large assets on hand as

'We confidently look for the realization of all these contingencies within
the ensuing. 60 or 90 days, when a new issue can be made before the public,
and we can go before them with confidence of success. Many gentlemen pledge
ito me a fair subscription. It will be seen that but few of our wealthy men
appear on the paper, and some of them say they will largely increase their
¦subscription. I do not think it advisable to exhibit tha within list as that of
Buffalo, as I am certain that it may be increased by several times its amount
-when the proper time arrives.
" I notice the severe check to the Hamilton road, and it would seem that it
must prove a permanent one, if the statement I have seen is to be relied ou.
If you have any precise reliable information on the subject I would like to re
ceive it.
" I saw Mr. Wallace, yesterday, on his return from the West, who reports
a very favorable progress.
" I have not a shadow of doubt as to the success of this project, and any
and every thing I can do to forward it shall be done. We move slowly and
'Cautiously in Buffalo, but a satisfactory amount, I am confident, will be sub
scribed here on the renewal of the charter.
" The route along the Southern shore of Lake Erie, to which you allude, is
one that cannot be commenced for years, nor till long after the Canada road is
fully established and has acquired its full legitimate business, which it will
thereafter be able to retain. " I beg to remain, very truly yours,
"R. L. ALLEN."
" Hon. W. Hamilton Merritt." " Windsor, January 11, 1846.
" Dear Sir : — I have the pleasure herewith to enclose you one hundred
scrip certificates for 480 shares each, and numbered from 297 to 396 inclusive.
Also a copy of the resolutions.
" I shall send a copy to each Director immediaiely, and a copy of the reso
lution for the meeting to Mr. Drake, in St. Thomas, with a request that he
•will have it inserted in the St. Thomas newspaper.
" I shall send a copy of resolution for tbe meeting to Simcoe.
" The returns come in sbwly and poor, in fact they have no money. Chat
ham cannot be prevailed on to take a single share .
" I send this to Detroit this afternoon, and hope it will not be delayed long.
" I remain, dear sir, yours truly,
" ROBERT MERCER, Secretary.
" Wm. Hamilton Merritt, Esq. Walpole, January 20th, 1846.
"Hon. W. Hamilton Merritt:— Dear Sir, — Since commencing our
survey of the N. and D. R. R. R., our time has been chiefiy occupied in
getting a topography of the country by running random lines, and taking

292
levels. After crossing the Grand River, I soon discovered that it was mtich-
easier to draw long straight lines on paper, than to find suitable ground to run
them upon. I have now fixed upon the location of our route between the
Grand River and Wesfaminster, and have instructed two parties to stake it.
out, and carry a level over it as quick as possible. One party commences
this morning on the west bank of Otter Creek, and the other will com
mence to-morrow on the east bank of the Grand River ; and the moment.
they meet, I will be prepared to make a profile and estimate of the hne,
the time is very limited.
"This line passes through the to-wn of Norwich, and -will intersect the!
plank road between London and St. Thomas, somewhere near 5 m. stakes. I
have also run a line South, as far West as Simcoe, and -will extend it to St.
'Thomas, as it is necessary to have at least two, in order to obtain the right.
of way. " You have of course heard from Mr, Ross ; I am in hopes of meeting
him to-day at Dunnville. I would have written sooner had anything of im
portance occurred. I heard from the contractors a few days ago ; they are
ready to execute all the papers.
" My confidence in the success of this grand work increases every day.
Yours of the 27th December was received, and the instructions it contained
will be attended to. "Respectfully your obedient servant,
" WILLIAM WALLACE."
i The Queen's speech on the opening of the Parliament of Great Britain,,
on the 22nd of January, in the premonition of expected scarcity, especially
in Ireland, recommends the reduction of duties on articles of food.
The European Times says, " Sir Robert Peel, England's powerful and
brilliant Minister, has developed his future commercial policy — free trade."
The Governor's speech, after noticing his permanent appointment as
successor to the late lamented Governor General, says, " I should not under
any circumstances have directed your early attention to the consideration
of the militia law, but the unaltered state of the negotiations wMch have
been for some time past carried on between the Imperial Government and
the United States, renders it imperative upon me to press more immedi
ately upon your consideration the necessity of a reorganization of that arm
of the public defence. I feel the most unbounded confidence that the loy
alty and patriotism of every class of Her Majesty's subjects in Canada will
be conspicuous as they have been heretofore."
Mr. M. went to Montreal by Troy through New York State, and o-wing
to the very heavy falls of snow, was 8 days on the journey. Very important
business was to be done during the session. Our subject moved for a return
shewing the state of the Provincial revenue in an itemized^manner, but did
not succeed in obtaining the object of his desire, as few Governments -wish
to expose the details of their financial proceedings. A new Militia Bill
was brought in, on which he expressed a preference for the old law of 1808,
inaugurated under the immortal Brock, whereby flank companies here al-

293
ways kept enrolled and trained for an emergency, thereby forming an active
ibrce, ready at any time to take the field, and form a rallying body for the
rest. The wisdom of this scheme was well tried in 1812, when nearly the
¦entire Militia force was ready to take the field in defence of their country
in from 12 to 24 hours after the declaration of war, as already stated in

Every effort was still made to procure a re-chartar for their railroad.
" Albany, April 9, 1846."
" Dear Sir : — I have just arrived here on my way to Boston. Imme
diately after receiving your letter of the 30th of March, I went to Mount
Morris, got six of the contractors to sign the explanation mentioned in your
letter, and it will be signed by all the others when I return here from
Boston. ' " Every day's experience shows the importance of making each new link
inthe chain' of railroads which is stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific
/as direct as possible ; and, to make a railroad through Canada one link in
th;s chain, the very best location must be made.
" Truly yours, in baste,
"WILLIAM WALLACE."
" Hon. W. H. Merritt."
April 18. — The important news was received, that "the House has
refused to extend the charter of the D. k N. Pv,. R."
The following correspondence after the decision of the Legislature had
put an end to Mr. Merritt's project of having a direct route through Cana
da, to connect with United States railroads, to] which those for the particu
lar convenience of Canada should act as branches. They refused through
the interest of United States capital ; and that a road through central
•Canada should be built, and that the agency of British capital be adopted.
"Detroit, May 6, 1846.
"My Dear Sir: — As I indicated to you in my letter some time ago on'
the subject ofthe Northern Railroad, the project has now received its quietus.
It was yesterday vetoed by the Executive, and upon the bill's going back to
the House and Senate, it was rejected by both by a very large majority. So
there will be, as I said, no Port Huron Railroad at present to connect with
Port Sarnia and the middle of Lake Michigan.
" It is a matter of derision here that such representations as are said to
have been made before the Canadian committee, by Americans, to the effect
¦that the Americans did not care where the Canada road ran to, or whether it
was level or not, and would in either case equally command the American
travel, should have the least weight attached to them. If such statements were
made by Americans, it is very certain they were persons not only who spoke
'Without knowledge, but whose opinions are not asked by Americans themselves
«n such subjects. The fact is, that the level road is the only one which can
¦deter competition. Whether this level road was the one first contemplated, or
¦whether it resulted in such a modification of the Western by branches as to
make a level line from one point to the other at the extremities, is not so
material. But this is quite material : that the central line road would not put
toats on the Lake against the level road, but they would put boats on against

294,
a road which. had to ascend a mountain or a part of a mountain ; and what is-
more, they know they can keep them there. And what the Central road
would do, the Lake combination would do.
" It seems to be thought that all the travel from American sources would
be equally secured in Canada by one road as another. But there are these,
two differences. One, that there are now boats on the Lake that can run
through in 18 hours, and nothing but a rapid transit over a level road can
divert people from such boats. Thcother is, that if people are coaxed into
Canada by the consciousness that they can go through in the shortest time,
if tliey please, they don't care so much about it after they are got in, but scat
ter and spread off into other routes ; because, like Falstaff, they know there is
no "compulsion." The very same people who would insensibly find them
selves on Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence in one case, would, in the other,
never take the first step to cross the line.
" However, when people have tarried a little longer at Jericho they will
find their beards longer. Experience makes every body pay, not only for
knowing too little, but for knowing too much. ' ' Your friend,
" B. A. BRENT.
"Wm. H. Hamilton, Esq."
The Parliament had opened on the 21st March, under the new Govemor,
Lord Cathcart, a gentleman whose chief qualifications lay in being a thorough
military man.
The news of the proceedings in England, mirrored by the Queen's
speech and that of the members, especially of Sir Robert Peel, was the sub
ject of newspaper articles on this side. One of them, in the Montreal Wit
ness, writes in favor of the measure on the grounds of philanthropy, and
says, " that the Colonists ought not to put up their small claim against the
great good that was to ensue from free trade with all mankind." But when
the inessage from the Government, enunciating in plain terms that the earn
ings of the Colonists should be subservient, or of secondary consideration
to the dwellers in Britain, it was received with astonishment, not unmixed
with a lively apprehension for the future well-being of the country.
The message was received, and was acquiesced in in an extraordinary
manner, and answer sent on . the opening day ; Mr. Baldwin, sho-sving his
promptness to create conciliatory feeling, said " that he -viewed -with pleasure
this disposition on the part of Great Britain to protect the interests of her
colonies." Mr. Merritt, on his arrival, took the first opportumty of moving an ad
dress respecting the St. Lawrence canals, to express his appreciation of the
situation, and tha duty left to representatives, saying, "and now that the
Colony was entirely left to its own resources, it was the duty of the Legis
lature to endeavour to reduce the price of transportation."
A letter was published in the Montreal Gazette from a leading shipowner
in Britain, dated 12th December, 1845. ********«¦

295
"The privilege we claim for trade t3 Canada should also in common
justice be extended to her other colonies. They would tend to attach our
colonial brethren still more strongly to the mother country, the monarchy
and our glorious constitution, and gain the assurance that our colonies were
recognized as integral portions of the British Empire, whilst at the same
time, we should virtually establish free trade in com with the western States,
and thus ngutralize their protective tariff by a flank movement, and calling
forth in fact (to use the words of the lamented Canning) " a new world into
existence," for such Upper Canada may yet be considered.
On the 20th of April a judicious statement appeared in the Journal:
" The most important business transaction of the Assembly last week re
lates to the transit and manufacture in Bond of American wheat."
The Parliament seems to be attending to matters generally of a local
nature or of minor importance, and the country manifests but little interest
in the proceedings.
The next Journal, of May, contains Mr. Merritt's speech, and a leader
in favour of it, he copies from the Examiner, who opposes these views,
and ends with the observing of the speech, " it is too large to be digested
all at once." „,„
Monday, May 4, 1846.
Our subject having prepared himself for the new policy, brought for
ward a series of resolutions, which he prefaced by the following speech :
Mr. Merritt, in moving the resolutions on tbe subject of agricultural pro
tection, said : The resolutions which will be submitted for the consideration ot
this house, are designed to counteract the effect which the recent change in the
commercialpolicyof Britain is likely to produce: no subject of greater im
portance is likely to occupy the attention of the Legislative Assembly durmg
the present session ; I trust, therefore, tho house will indulge me with more
time than usual, to bring the subject fully before them, partiou arly as no
measure has yet been proposed to meet the altered circumstances of the country.
It is true, the hon. Inspector General has gained great applause, by his
exposition of the finances and revenue. I feel much satisfaction in congratu
lating him on his promise of future usefulness— for few, with his Parliamen
tary experience, could have done so well. At the same time, I must contess i
have been disappointed to find a measure, which, above all others, most mter-
eststhe inhabitants of Canada, wholly overlooked : a measure which brougnt
forth one of the most able and powerful speeches ever produced by any states
man, in any age, or in any country. In which every conflicting mterest was tuny
. canvassed and balanced one against another, and the advantagesso clearly point
ed out that prejudice and interest gave way to reason and inte ligenoe, one
which occupied twelve nights' debate, against which the agriculturalists ot
Engand cannot feel a deeper interest than the agriculturalists ot Canada
Except a war with the United States of America, no event couia
have created greater apprehension in the miuds of the agricultural population
ofUpper Canada than this unexpected change in the commercial policy ot
Great Britain. This apprehension arises from the fact that : since 1842, when
wheat and flour was admitted at a nominal duty in the ports of Britain, they
have been in a state of unprecedented prosperity— their products yield a fair

296
profit— a stimulus had been given to industry — the culture of wheat had been
extended — capital freely invested, and property increased in value, tliey realised
those advantages and felt content. Ask any farmer to what cause he attributed
this increased price for wheat ; his reply will be protection. Although in Eng
land a difference of opinion may exist between the landowner, farmer and la
bourer, on this subject, no difference of opinion can exist here, as the three
are united in one. Notwithstanding this union of interest among the popula
tion, there is a n arked difference in its representation in the coiincils of the
province. There the agricultural interest predominates, here it finds a tardy
advocate; still, I can hardly believe there is a single member who will not
admit that, under the existing system, the agriculturalists in Canada owe the
present prosperity wholly to protection.
I desire not to be misunderstood I do not allude to the alleged protection
imposed by the colonial duty on articles passing through our inland waters to
distant markets. I allude to the protection they received in the markets of
Britain — this protection will soon be withdrawn ; what equivalent or what
compensation is proposed to the agriculturists in Canada in lieu thereof 1 It
is to me unaccountable, to witness the apathy which prevails here on this sub
ject. On the first announcement, in the part of the country I represent, an
immediate change in the minds of all was apparent ; buildings were suspended
and property decreased in value, to an extent no other circumstance would have
produced, and you may rely upon it that all who hold a stake in the prosperity
of Canada are now looking to the Legislature for some remedy. It is my inten
tion to go back to the time when this protection was first promulgated, and follow
up every movement relating to it, that it may be fully understood. In the
first place, what says Sir R. Peel: "I am not prepared to select that great
interest, connected with -the agriculture of this country, and call upon them to
resign protection, unprepared at the same time to call on other protected in-
interests to make the same sacrifice." The protection withdrawn from the
agricultural interests was, duty on cattle, provisions, corn, other grains, and
various articles, the reduction on wheat to cease in three years. The
equivalents for this reduction were : The removal of all duty on the raw mate
rial except timber. Cotton manufactures, calico prints, now subject to a duty
of 10 per cent — to be free. Cotton made up to protect the industry of the
country, now 20 per cent — reduced to 10 per cent. Woollen and linen goods
made up, now 20 to 10. Metals, 15 to 10. Brocade, earthenware, carriages,
now 20 to 10. Silks, 30 to 15. 10 per cent to be the maximum. He also
makes other arrangements affecting the interests of other parts of the com
munity, but which will materially benefit that interest in whose welfare the
aountry is so deeply interested, which are thus enumerated: First— ^The great
est burden which is justly complained of by the agriculturalists, is the rate
levied on highways, which is reduced from 6d. and 9d. on the pound to IJd.
and 3d. Second — The law of settlement, which will relieve agriculture from
an oppressive burden, besides injustice on the labouring man. (Amount of
this reduction not stated.) Third — The encouragement of agricultural indus
try, by the government loaning money on the security of land, for draining and
improving the same, which will develope agricultural improvement throughout
the country. Fourth — Charges of expenses of prosecution now paid from local
rates, to be borne altogether from the Treasury, estimated for England and
Ireland at £117,000. Fifth — In Ireland the whole expense of the police
force is borne by the land, hereafter by the Treasury. Sixth — One-half of
the medical relief sustained by poor laws, by the Treasury, in England and

297
Scotland, £115,000, and expense of prisons in Scotland £12,000. Seventh —
.Education of youth in work-houses, estimated at £30,000; poor law auditors
£15,000. On being asked, what would be the whole amount of those various
charges? he replied, the estimate upon the consolidated fund was £530,000.
Thus we have a clear, practical and substantial equivalent for the agricultural
interest, although it was considered inadequate and so admitted . The removal
of import duties on the articles they require for consumption, the removal of
taxes and other burdens from land. It is to be regretted that the agricultural
interest of Canada did not occupy some small portion of his comprehensive
mind; if it had, all duties on our products would have been repealed when ad
mitted into the markets of Britain.
We find in the speech of His Excellency the Governor General a most
'.appropriate allusion to this important change, from which the country is
led to believe that their claim to protection is admitted, and will not ultimately
be overlooked. A few days after we find, in a despatch from the Colonial
Secretary, 3rd March last, the policy which her Majesty's government recom-
inended for the Provincial Legislature. After an assurance that the interests
•of Canada have occupied the place to which they were justly entitled on this
¦important subject, he states, " With regard to corn, I have much satisfaction
in reflecting, that if Canada will have to enter into competition with the West
ern States of America, and to engage in this rivalry, when no longer covered
by any protective duty, at least she will not be called to make the effort with
out eome advantages on her side, among which I view her light taxation."
Itis by no means surprising that the Colonial Secretary should fall into this
common error. It is but reasonable to suppose that a government, with a reve
nue exceeding £400,000 from imports, should be in a position to relieve its in
habitants from every other description of taxation ; but so far from this being the
case, not only are the local taxes in Upper Canada higher than in the Western
States, but the people possess many advantages which we do not. The Cana
dian farmer is subject to high duties on all American manufactures, as well as
on tea, coffee, and many foreign articles, from which the Western farmer is
«xempt. It may be said as an offset, that the latter pays higher prices for
wool, fine fabrics, and hardware, and those articles on which a high duty is
imposed, for the suppcrt of their Federal Government, aud for the protection
of their manufactures. But whether it arises from an evasion of the duty,
'facilities in obtaining supplies, quick returns, small profits, or whatever cause,
those articles are sold as cheap there as here, or so near it that you cannot
discover any material difference. Of the truth of this, every marchant in Mont
real must rest satisfied what amount of British manufactures are consumed
in Vermont, where no impediments exist for smuggling. The same result is
experienced on the borders of the St. Lawrence, Niagara and Detroit rivers,
as every member of this house well knows.
Another advantage pointed out is " the assistance Canada has received from
British credit for internal communications, and the means of carriage without
transhipments by the St. Lawrence, which cannot be had by way ofthe Erie
¦'eanal," From the same cause, the Colonial Secretary has fallen into the same
error. 'Who could be made to believe at a distance that one of the most mag
nificent navigations that any country, either in Europe or America can boast
of, should, through neglect or mismanagement, increase instead of cheapen
'transportation 1 Such, be it known, is at this moment the situation on the St.
liawrence Canal.
The Colonial Secretary thinks the price of transit from Montreal to

298
Great Britain will be as cheap as from New 'York. The same opinion
is expressed by our Inspector General, although at this moment, the charge on
a barrel of flour is 4s. 6d. from the former, and Is. 6d. from the latter. It is
supposed that the increased demand for American products in Britain will
have a tendency to increase the price from New York, and thus equalize freight
between the two ports ; but it is questionable whether the increase of shipping
will not keep pace with this demand.
It is argued, on the other hand, by the Inspector General, that the greater
the stocks at Quebec, the more vessels will come out, and thus cheapen the
freight by competition. I coincide in the view taken by the Attorney Gene
ral on this subject. Increase your import trade : this will give freights both
ways and lessen prices ; but under any circumstances, I have my apprehensions
the freights will not be reduced from this to Britain as low as from New-
York. Let us now refer to the measures introduced by the provincial government.
The first was a bill by the Attorney General, equalizing taxes in proportion to
the value of land, leaving the burden to be sustained by land. 2d — By the In
spector General, to impose a duty of 2d. per gallon on whisky. This tax is
also borne by the grower, and placed on land. Its object is to relieve the sev
eral district revenues from the expense of the administration of justice, and
placing it on the provincial revenue. The effect is this : Instead of being
taxed directly as usual in each district in Western Canada, and paying the
money into the district treasury, the money will be paid into the provincial
treasury, and the tax paid out of the coarse grain in the same district ; it im
poses an additional tax on the grower in Lower Canada, it is true, but it affords
no relief to the grower in Upper Canada — it is merely paying out of one pocket
instead of the other. I should have been gratified to find some proposition
for the reduction of internal taxes, duties on imports, and the public expendi
ture worthy of notice — some measure to save our remaining public land, and ,
creating a fund therefrom to educate the rising generation ; some measure to
relieve the burden on land, and apportion our taxes more suitably on other
property, or some equivalent to the agricultural interest ; some measure or
some attempt to meet the great change to which this country must shortly be
subject. The dispatch, praying for a removal of the 3s. per quarter duty on
wheat, grain, pulse, &c., is well as far as it goes ; but it should have extended
to all products. The measure designed to benefit the mercantile, carrying and
shipping interests for the next three years, is the removal of tbe three shillings
per Cjuarter on wheat passing through our waters to distant countries ; as this
will so soon become inoperative, it is to be regretted the act will not come into
immediate operation. The rapid increase, and extent of the great western
country has been well and truly described by the Inspector General; it is a
prize worth contending for, and one which we can secure by adopting the
proper remedy; but we have intelligent, active rivals, who are not to be met
by letting everything take its course, as heretofore. Sir, it is pleasing for me
to witness the striking change which has come over the minds of those who
formerly opposed the construction of the St. Lawrence Canal ; now but one
feeling is entertained respecting it ; on that work alone rests all your hopes of
commanding this trade. What would have been your prospects if it had not
been constructed on the enlarged scale, or had it bean suspended under Lord
Sydenham's administration, and the remainder of our duties to create a mil
lion and a half squandered away for what is called improvements, without an

299
expectation of any return whatever ? In December last, I endeavoured tc
draw the attention of the governrnent and the public to this work, by making
a comparison of the charges made by forwarders on the Erie Canal from Buf
falo to Albany, prior to July, 1845, on which a barrel of flour was conveyed
306 miles for 9d., when Is. 9d. per barrel was charged for 180 miles from
Kingston to Montreal (tolls not included on either.) The hon. the Inspector
Greneral, on the true partisan system, turns those figures against me, says it
would lead the public to believe the tolls were equal on both routes, thus in
creasing the price of freight on the St. Lawrence over the Erie Canal. Had
he read that letter, he would find it states that the government are not only
deprived of all toll, but the means of raising a revenue — the forwarders descend
ing the St. Lawrence river without payment of toll, and ascending the Rideau,
not leaving as much as would pay the lock -tenders. I should not have alluded
to this, except for the purpose of repelling a charge which vras not warranted.
I am not surprised at the government expressing some feeling on this subject ;
because their inattention or neglect has subjected the entire commerce of
Canada to a most oppressive and unnecessary tax during the coming season.
Sir, it is unnecessary to enter into any calculations to prove the St. Lawrence
will be a cheaper conveyance than by the Erie Canal, because all those calcu
lations depend upon circumstances beyond our control ; for instance, if you
found your calculations on the government of New York keeping up higher
tolls, te pay the interest on their canal debt, you will find by the comptroller's-
report of 1846, that the debt created for pubKc improvements was $34,329,035
In 1844, it was reduced to  20,713,905
In 1846, on 1st January, to  17,216,119
'While our canal debt is rapidly increasing, we will also find that in 1845,
while the toll on the Erie Canal increased $199,808, the toll on the Welland
Canal, decreased about $20,000. To what cause is this extraordinary result
to be attributed ? The Inspector General says, " to the fluctuation of trade,"
why has this trade fluctuated all one way, leaving the St. Lawrence and seek
ing the Hudson ? He will find the true cause to be a vigilant, intelligent
personal superintendence on the one part, and a total neglect, arising from an
impracticable system of management on the other — the one lessening prices of
freight, the other increasing it. Throughout the world the prices of freight
are governed by one rule — the larger the bo ly of water, longer the voyage and
larger the canal, without transhipment, the cheaper the price of freight, —
Compare the dimensions of the navigation on the St. Lawrence with the Erie
Canal with this rule, admit both works to reduce the toll to the lowest mini-
mum, which will ultimately take place, and no person can doubt, which must
prove, under equal management, the cheapest route. The Inspector General
infers, from the statement of prices of wheat in the Baltic, produced by Sir
Eobert Peel in 1842, when he first commenced reducing protecting duties,
that the Canadiun grower can successfully compete with the grower on the
continent of Europe, against cheaper labour and cheaper freights. It appears,
however, from the returns of exports of breadstuffs from the United States,
not over three per cent of the entire quantity reaches the markets of Britain;
if these statements be true, and Americans from their more southern ports can
not successfully compete with them, it is doubtful if the Canadian, from the
more distant markets, with other impediments, can. But admitting the Can
ada grower can successfully compete with tbe European, and that the markets
of Britain will insure a fair price for wheat, he will still have to compete with
the American grower on his border , this is the only competition we have to

300
fear, and no sound reason has been assigned why the prices of produce will not
be Mgher in the United States than in Canada. The recent letters published
by Isaac Buchanan on this subject hr^ve been either passed over unnoticed, or
treated -with ridicule. He recommends obtaining free access for our products
into the markets of the United States, because, in his judgment, the New
York market will offer a higher price than the English market : in this opinion
I fully concur, should the grower in Canada not obtain -as high a price for his
products as the grower in the Western States. The consequence anticipated
by Mr. Buchanan are not to be disregarded. We only differ in the means to
obtain access to the markets of the United States. Mr. Buchanan recommends
the imposition of high duties, to force them to admit our products. This
would be impracticable, but by drawing their trade through our channels as long
as we can, they will be induced to remove restrictions to regain or increase their
trade. It requires no figures or calculations to prove which will be the best
market. After 1848, the western farmer will have access to two, the Canadian
but one, assuming the limited demand for the Montreal market will be governed
by the prices in England. This advantage will give the American miller and
merchant the entire command of the wheat trade (except for our limited con
sumption) of the western states. What follows ? On the one side capital
will be freely invested, and every description of property increased in value,
while, on the other side, everything will remain stationary, if not retrograding,
and apathy and dissatisfaction will prevail. This is no mere assertion;" the
same was witnessed in 1835, '36 ; and examine the journals of Upper Canada
during that period, you will find the efforts then made to obtain access to the
markets of the United States. A petition, numerously signed, was forwarded
to Congress, praying for admission of our products. The state of the mar
kets, no doubt, was one of the ruling causes which led the inhabitants of
Upper Canada to open rebellion and a resort to arms in 1837. If no remedy
is provided, the same cause will again exist in 1849. Let us then apply our
minds to the application of a remedy. Can we adopt the American policy —
encourage manufactures by protecting home market — to consume the products
of our soil ? No, we connot; and why ? First, an adverse interest would im
mediately arise between the mother country and the colony, which would inev
itably produce separation in the shortest possible time ; and secondly, the ex
tent of boundary and facilities offered for smuggling, renders it impracticable.
Sir Robert I'eel very justly observes, that high duties, called protection, is a
false reliance, a delusion on the part of the labourer, and a clear loss to the
revenue ; both are robbed by the smuggler. Housos in Paris will guarantee
the delivery uf goods in Lnndon for fifteen per cent. If, with their numerous
excise, coast guards, and cruisers, goods can be smuggled their at fifteen per*
cent., they can here for one half — seven and a half per cent. No person can
be induced to embark capital in manufactures in Canada, under the expectation,
that any duty, however high it may appear, will protect him from competition
in the same article from the United States. It is evident, Mr. Speaker,
that if protection be withdrawn in the markets of Britain, it is impracticable
in Canada ; we have no means of enforcing it, we are powerless. We have,
then, but one other course open to us ; that is, the removal of all restrictions
on commerce, the agricultural interest may then safely rely on the increase
of that commerce to create a population, and thereby ensure a home mar
ket for the productions of the soil — as well as obtaining everything then
consumed at the lowest prices. This policy fairly carried out, will prove

301
a sound, a durable remedy, and will not only give an ample equivalent to the
agi'iculturalist of Canada, but place him in a far better position than the
farmer in the Western States. To attain tMs end, it is proposed to submit
the following resolutions : —
1. Resolved, — That, in adopting the principle recommended in the des
patch of the Colomal Secretary of the 3rd February last, in which we are
assured, "That it is the desire of Her Majesty's Government, that the trade
of Canada may, hi all respects, approach as nearly to perfect freedom as the
descriptions of the inhabitants, and the exigencies of the public revenue
there, may permit," it is just and reasonable that every existing restriction
on the trade of Canada should be removed.
2. Resolved, — That, under the existing colonial policy of Great Britain
this pro^vince has undertaken the construction of public works of great mag
nitude, for which a large debt has been incurred, and that its present agri.
cultural prosperity is chiefly attributable to the protection its products have
received since the reduction of duties on wheat and flour in 1843, in the
markets of the mother country.
3. Resolved, — That, fully appreciating the advantages this province
ought to possess, over the Western States of America, inasmuch as the citi
zens of those states pay duties on imports for the support of the Federal
Government of the United States, while the inhabitants of Canada are not
subject to any similar duties for the support of the British Government,
nevertheless, from our present fiscal system and existing restrictions on
commerce, and other causes, they are not realized, and there is reason to
apprehend the contemplated change in the commercial policy of Great Bri
tain, will confer still greater advantages on the citizens of the United States,
than on the inhabitants of Canada.
4. Resolved, — That, inasmuch as it is proposed to relieve commerce and
extend an equivalent to the agriculturalists, in Britain by a reduction of
import duties on all articles consumed, by removing various burdens on
land and by pro-viding for the encouragment of agricultural industry, by
means of loans raised on the credit of government tu improve the same, the
agriculturalists in Canada have reason to believe that Her Majesty's govern--
ment will readily extend a similar equivalent to them for the protection
about to bo -withdrawn.
5. Resolved, — That an humble address be presented to Her Majesty,
praying that she will be pleased to admit all articles, the growth and pro
duce of Canada, into the markets of the mother country, free from duty.
6. Also, — That she will be pleased to recommend, to the Imperial Par
liament, that aU imperial acts relating to duties on the imports, revenue
and trade of Canada, may be repealed, and her commerce relieved from all
restrictions except what may be imposed by the provincial Legislature.
7. Also, — That Her Majesty may be pleased to open a negotiation with
the government of the United States for the purpose of obtaining access for
the products of Canada into the markets of that country on the same terms
that American products are to be admitted into the markets of Britain and

8. Also, — That the River St. Lawrence from Lake Ontario to the Ocean,
may be opened to all nations, subject to no gi-eater restrictions than now
exist in passing through the Welland Canal around the Falls of Niagara,

302
in order that a revenue from tolls may be ensured to repay the cost of the
construction of the canals connecting those waters :
The first resolution requires no comment ; the truth of the second will
«,lso be admitted. The third draws the attention of the govemment of Great
Britain, our pro^vincial govemment, and the country to a fact, which no
•quibbling, no sophistry, can control, and no man can deny. The advantages
we are entitled to, as a colony, have never been fully realized. Never hav
ing been left to our own resources, the necessity for a rigid examination into
•our actual position never occurred ; that time has now arrived when a thor
ough investigation cannot fail to prove beneficial, and give a proper and
correct tone to public opinion.
Suppose a separation to take place, and this province to be united with
i;he American States, what advantages would we gain ? We would, in the
first place, not only be compelled to surrender all our public land, but
become subject to a heavy duty on imports; for what? for the protection
of the federal government : and in addition, we would have to support our
provincial government without the aid of either of those resources. The
government of Great Britain extends that protection to us at this moment,
•without exacting our land, duty on imports, or any tax whatever, but merely
for the extension of her trade and commerce.
To illustrate this contrast more fully and more strikingly, suppose
the government of Great Britain had appointed her own officers of custom,
.collected all duties on the articles we consumed, and remmitted the amount
to her treasury ; precisely in the same manner as the same revenue is col
lected in the different states by the United States govemment, and paid in
to her treasui-y. And supposing a despatch from the Colonial Secretary stat
ing that Her Majesty's government had withdrawn all protection in the
markets of Britain on our products ; but, as an equivalent, she has repealed
all duties on our imports, withdrawn all her officers of customs, and thus
enabled our farmers to obtain every article they consume at the cheapest
rate, not only placing them in as favourable a. position as the farmer in the
western states, but wholly relieving them from the tax to the federal govei-n-
ment ; and, in addition thereto, the government of Great Britain will con
tinue to j-jcrform the same duties as the government of the United States.
Would not the announcement of such a despatch, conferring so great a boon,
make any farmer in Canada feel he had received a full compensation for the
protection withdrawn.
Now all his can be brought about. It is in the power of the pro
vincial government, and a heavy responsibility rests with them if they
do not avail themselves of this opportunity.
4. The advantages here referred to are more fully pointed out in my
remarks on Sir R. Peel's speech.
5. This resolution is in accordance with the principle by which I have
been governed for many years. Since the removal of all duties between
this and the mother country in 1842, I have advocated placing discriminating
¦duties on our imports from foreign ports, as an equivalent for the protection
our products received in the markets of Britain. However, as this protection
will be -withdrawn, it is but reasonable we should urge Her Majesty's gov
ernment to concede to the productions of Canada what she recommends the
home government to concede to other countries. The principal articles ¦will
be butter, cheese, hops, &c., but it is not so much the amount of the duty

303
or the extent of the trade on those articles for which we contend, as for the
principle. 'When the prime minister declared as early as 1842, that Canada, for
all purposes of trade, should be considered as if she were an integral part
ofthe empire, we should not, in 1845, be placed on the same footing as
foreigners. 6. This resolution prays for the repeal of all imperial acts relating to
the revenue or commerce of Canada ; it does not include the navigation
laws of Britain, because, as colonists, they confer equal advantages on us ;
the interchange of our products for her manufactures will be continued in
our vessels : it applies particularly to the imperial act, 5th and 6th Victoria,
cap. 49, passed in July, '42, for regulating the British possessions abroad ;
it will remove existing discrimination duties, and the bonding system which
. subjects all articles from foreign parts to an additional duty, which is directly
contrary to the spirit and bearing of the late despatch, and the late com
mercial policy of Great Britain.
7. I am sensible, Mr. Speaker, that many men of sound judgment
entertain the opinion that if a free intercourse were opened with the United
States, on the same terms as between the citizens of the different states,
that it would lead to a separation from the mother country ; this opinion
was expressed in the address of the North American Colonial association in
January last. They apprehended a change in the sentiments of the colon
ists, ff no preference in the markets of the mother country, in case they are
offered a free interchange of commodities with the United States. I enter
tain the very opposite opinion. A change in the sentiments of the colonists
can only arise, in their being deprived of this free intercourse. In support
of this position, which is highly important to understand, I will assign but
one reason : a farmer values tiis market by comparative not remunerating
prices ; if equal on both sides of the boundary, and wheat came to 2s. 6d., he
would rest satisfied, but not if he received 4s. 4d and the American farmer
4s. 6d. per bushel. This inequality may not lead to the same result as in
'37, but it will produce a strong inclination to favour a part of the United
States. On the contrary, were our products admitted into their markets, no
difference in price would be visible ; the Canada farmer at all times would
be placed on an equal footing in all respects, with the Western farmer.
This is all the favour he asks ; still he will be placed on a much better foot
ing — always bearing in mind that he will be relieved from the import duty
to which they are subject ; and so far from feeling any de.sii-e to change his
political situation, he would realize the advantages he possessed, and resist
any political change.
After obtaining all that the government of Britain can grant, or all we
ask for in this address, much still remains to be done to meet the altered
circumstances in which the country will shortly be placed. The Provincial
Cabinet need be under no apprehension ; though their places may be cov-
¦eted by others, no half measures will meet this crisis. If ever ability and
attention was required, it is at this moment. Hereafter Canada must rely
on its own resources, extravagance must be checked, economy practised,
and the expenses of the Provincial Government reduced, and its resources
now wasted and negected must be preserved and developed. ,
Wo insert ("regretting the want of room for more) a part of the despatch
in answer to the address, the subject of these resolutions. The fiction of law.

304
making the Queen responsible for the act depriving her subjects in Canada
of remuneration for their industry, was never so glaring as the present.
"Downing St., June 3rd.
"'^y^ith respect to that portion of the address which prays Her Majesty's
government to invite the Government of the United States to establish an
equality of trade between the domains of the Republic and the British
North American Colonies, I am commanded to instruct your Lordship to
assume to the Assembly, that Her Majesty will readily cause directions to
be given to the minister in Washington to avail himself of the earliest suit
able opportunity to press this important subject on the notice of that Gov
ernment, and that it will not'afford Her Majesty's the most sincere satisfac
tion, if any communication which may hereafter be held for this purpose,
shall have the effect which is desired by her faithful commons of Canada."
The important mineral discoveries, which have since converted the ste-,
rile shores and islands of Lake Superior into wealthy locations, were now
becoming talked of, and capitalists were invited to assist in developmg the
hidden treasures of this almost unknown section of country.
To assist in the work, he purchased 400 shares in the Lake Superior
Copper Mining Company, but having no idea of permanently connecting
himself with the undertaking, he disposed of them afterwards.
As the duty on books interfered with the business of bookselling, in
which the author was engaged, he represents his views on the subject.
From the Chief Superintendent : — " Price of Irish national bucks can
be imported from Ireland and sold at much less price.
Legislative Assembly, April 16. — "I should be most happy to remove
duty on bopks, as oq, all other articles, as you will find shortly, but it -will
take some time.
The much talked of project of a canal, connecting Lakes Huron and
Superior found great favour, and he earnestly urged its commence
ment by our Govemment, as it would materially assist in developing the
mines of the North- West. The Govemment, however, thought the scheme
premature, and the result was that the people of the United States completed
a canal on theii- side of the river, a proceeding in no ways creditable to our
Government, some of whom it was then said were not averse to lettmg
Uncle Sam control the route, which was liable to the worked to the disad
vantage of Canada, as was seen during the troubles in MaMtoba.
June 1st. — Mr. Merritt brought up Ms resolutions on the subject of
Trade and Commerce. Mr. Baldwin appears now to have received light,
and says he was afraid that the new policy of England would have a most
injurious effect upon Canada, but he trusted he might be mistaken.
Mr. Caley looked upon this resolution as being an interference with the
sovereignty of Great Britain, and as holding out a threat that if she did
take off the protection from our produce, we were prepared to cast off her
sovereignty. Mr. Couchon opposed it— referred to a select committee.

305
At the commencement of the session he decided upon retiring from
business, and devoting himself to the affairs of the country ; in consequence
ofwMch he disposed of his large milling interests to his son Thomas. Doubt
less he then thought that in order to carry out his matured ideas on the ques
tion of Reciprocal Trade, that the time at his disposal would be fully occupied.
Our subject first brought before the House his scheme for our altered
relations, and heralded forth a Commercial Reciprocity with the United
States. As the Mtherto almost exclusive trade between Great Britain
and her colonies was now abrogated by the repeal of the English Corn Laws,
and all countries placed on the same level, thereby encouraging- the commerce
of a powerful foreign rival like the United States, at the expense of a weak,
struggling colony, Mr. Merritt believed that when selfish statesmanship
ignored the colonial trade relations, and virtually gave a bid for the best
customer under any circumstances, that the duty of the colonists was plainly
to make the best bargains they could with their nearest neighbours.
The novelty of the idea created some sensation, but mature deliberation
convinced many that the measure would ultimately be adopted.
The Imperial Act taking off the duties on provisions in England was
not an ordinary bill. It was one reversing the practice of the kingdom,
which heretofore was encouraging " ships, colonies and commerce ;" and
that had been the policy since the commonwealth, and by which England
had become a great maritime nation ; it had established her power to an
unexampled extent, exceeding the nations among the ancients, and Portu
gal, Spain, Holland or France among the moderns — many of her possessions
being the spoils of war from these States. She was now trying the experi
ment of preser-ving her maritime supremacy by the abundance of the " sin
ews of war,'' and the power of her navy, without any adjuncts from the
help of the colonies, which had been her traditional policy for two centuries.
Sir R. Peel and Mr. Gladstone may have calculated the costs, and found
the cash balance in their favour, but it waS -with a different summation to
the loyal colonists who weighed this report. They had adhered to the policy
of a United Empire, of which an ocean was not to be the boundary.
Our subject was perhaps the most alive to the measure. He especially
deprecated the haste in which it was hurried through, both in England and
in the Provincial Legislature ; ours seemed even to acquiesce before the
particulars arrived or the Act passed— to acquiesce in advance to all the
mimstry might propose. His writings, speeches, and we si^pose conversa
tion with his fellow passengers during the journey down, had all been on
our superior advantages as colonies over the United States. What must
have been Ms disappointment to find the tables turned, and to find the ad
vantages in the, market of the mother country handed over to brother Jona
than without a demand for a corresponding benefit (!)

306
The following, an extract from the Queen's speech, of January 22nd,
gives notice of changes by which the industry of the provinces need be no
longer distinguished, and her approbation to the measure calculated to ex
tend commerce and to stimulate domestic skill and industry, by the repeal
of prohibitoi-y and the relaxation of protective duties :
" I recommend you to take into your earliest consideration whether the
principles on which you have acted may not with advantage be yet more
extensively applied to make such further reductions as may tend to insure
the continuance of the great benefits to wMch I have adverted, and to
strengthen the bonds of amity with foreign powers."
Folio-wing this polic}', which it is unnecessary to say through the British
constitution was that of the Minister, and not the Queen's individual senti
ments, the Premier, Sir Robert Peel, saj's :
"Wearied with our lojig and unavailing effoi-ts to enter into a satis
factory commercial treaty -^^-ith other nations, we have resolved at length to
consult our own interests. And 3'ou may depend upon it, whatever maybe
the immediate effect, our example will be ultimately followed."
And to show whom he was trying to influence hj this amiable doctrine
the reporter adds, "Here the Right Hon. Baronet quoted a passage from
a report of Mr. Walker, Secretary and Treasurer of ihe United States."
Let us take a review of the state of the country, and of the character of
the representatives to whom were entrusted its destinies at this eventful
period. We see that the natural abundance of our productive soil had pro
duced prosperity, and with it an indifference to the acts of the Govemment.
The increase of the immigrants of 1831-32, who would from association
be inclined to view favourably a policy that would provide cheap bread for
those to whom, for all they knew, they were related by the ties of blood
returned as members men of similar views, as Killaly, Hincks, Parks,
Col. John Prince, Dr. Dunlop, instead of Von Egmoiit, Durand, Gibson,
Duncombe, and Mackenzie.
We have seen the Buffalo and Detroit line vetoed, the best scheme, as
is proved by the Air Line constructed since. By the following report in
the conduct of similar enterprises we catch a faint glimpse of their design,
matured into a finished policy since : — " The report for extending the
Great Western to Toronto, and a letter from George Hudson that the Act
of incorporation might be granted to them, were favourably received.
The French members voted, if not in sympathy, at least aequiesced in
their views when Upper Canada measures were to be decided, as seen in the
amendment to the Municipal bill for Upper Canada carried through this
session, allowed by the government as a bid for popularity ; namely, the
election of the wardens, treasurers, clerks, and surveyors, and to be allowed
pay for their services.
Mr. Draper moved an act to indemnify certain public officers and others

307
-who may not have taken the oath by law required, followed by a little
scene in the House when Speaker Papineau's back salary was granted
when the Hon. Mr. Morin was allowed to take the Speaker's chair for the
occasion. At the opening, March 20th, Attorney General Draper had laid on the
table important despatches, dated about seventeen days before.
His Excellency finishes his address to the House, 20th March, with the
following oracular lines : —
" The last intelligence from the mother country indicates a most im
portant change in the commercial policy of the empire.
" Until we have a fuller exposition ofthe projected scheme, which a few
days will probably bring us, it would be premature to anticipate that the
claims of this province to a just measure of protection, has been overlooked."
The following despatch from Mr. Gladstone, which arrived after the
close of the House, conveying the decision of the Imperial Parliament
closed the discussion, as far as any legal enactments could be gained in any
of the colonies : "Downing Street, June 3rd, 1846.
" The interests of Canada have occupied the place to which they are
justly entitled in the deliberations of Her Majesty's government upon the
important subject of changes in the British Corn Law and upon others."
" After noticing the failure of Reciprocity Treaties with foreign powers,
and their determination to have free trade, should the government of the
United States continue to maintain the scale of import duties now in force
upon its frontiers. Her Majesty's Government will view with regret a policy
injurious to Canada ; but they will refiect with satisfaction on the prevalence
of laws more favourable to commerce on the Canadian side, and will anticipate
from these laws both a direct benefit to the public and trade of the province,
and a further advantage which a constant example will afford to them ;" etc.
With a reference to the despatch, three columns long, he concludes : — ¦
"Her Majesty's Government have not felt themselves at liberty to advise
Her Majesty to pass by the address of the Canadian Assembly with a brief,
or mere formal answer, for which they are well assured may be anticipated
the most candid consideration even of arguments opposed to their own ; nor
can she recognize in this view any distinction between her nearer and more
remote subjects, or between the more or less powerful." But with strange
inconsistency adds: — ^Especially when they tend to improve the condition
of the most numerous and the least opulent class of her people." But, see
ing that this was not argument, he closes with something more like reality : —
"It would be a source of the greatest pain to Her Majesty's Government
that the connection between this country and Canada derived its vitality
from the exchange of commercial preferences, if so it would suggest the idea
that the connection had reached the legitimate term of its existence, but it
rests upon common traditions and resemblances."
At the close, our subject's hopes of benefiting the country, after an
eight years' struggle through colonial legislation being suddenly destroyed,
he makes an application for government employment to minister Draper,

308
in a note from Donegana's Hotel, June 10th, the day after the House closed,
he alludes to his losses in business, and says : — "It is necessary I should
devote my time to some useful object." He goes into a lengthened detail
of the scheme by which the navigation of the St. Lawrence might be com
pleted by next year :
" If it is considered my atfention to this object would promote the public
interest, I would cheerfully devote my time to it ; having no great personal
interest, my only motive is to see this work made useful. I care not who
are the engineers or contractors on the different works. No time is to be
lost, however; and if I do not hear from you during the day, I shall con
sider the Govemment do not think the effort necessary."
"W. H. MERRITT."
His application not meeting with a response, and receiving on the same
day a commission from the Great Western, he was induced again to turn
his attention to railroad enterprizes, with what loss to his private fortune,
and benefit to the public, it will be the business of this memoir hereafter to
relate. "Montreal, June 10, 1846.
" Dear Sir : — The shareholders in England are willing a few shares of
stock should be subscribed in the United States, and as you have hitherto
obtained stock there for other objects, you may dispose of 4,000 shares at
£25, equal to £100,000, to be expended between Niagara and Hamilton;
and in case a company of responsible contractors will undartake to complete
this part of the road, for a fair remunerating price, to be approved of by
Mr. Young or any other competent engineer in the employment of the
Company, you will please receive the proposal, which the Board, I have no
doubt, -will sanction, " I remain, dear sir, yours faithfully,
" ALLAN N, MACNAB, Pros. G. W. R. Com.,
" JAS. B. EWART, Director.
" Wm. H, Merritt, Esq."
On his return from Parliament he visited the States, in the interest ef
the Great Western Road, making a slight detour to visit his father-in-law
at his residence in Mayville. This letter gives a partial account of his
mission on behalf of the Great Western Railway, on which he departed
soon -after reaching his home ; as was not unfrequent on those occasions,
especially during the warm weather, his health needed the necessary relax
ation ; in the present instance he was suffering under an attack of the pre
vailing fever. "Utica, July 20, 1846.
" My Dear Sir : — We arrived at Buffalo on Tuesday in good time. I
was not so well in Buffalo, and, after reaching Rochester in the cars, was
obliged to leave them and take a packet boat on the canal to this place,
where I remained under the direction of Dr. Peckham three or four days,
when I again came round ; in the meantime was enabled to attend to my
business, which was meeting certain contractors for our railroad, and Mr.
Young, the ci-vil engineer. On the 6th inst. finished, made a long visit.

309
and prepared to return. -On Monday the 13th Sir Allan McNab, and one
of the Directors of the Great Western road, came out and wished me to go
on to Boston to meet an English engineer, who had arrived on his way to
Canada to report on the road ; consequently I left on Monday for Boston.
Arrived at Boston at 6 o'clock on Tuesday, after sleeping from 10 to 4 at
Springfield. Finished our business that day, left on Wednesday, and ar
rived by the Long Island Railroad at 10 o'clock the same evening. Fin
ished my business in New York next day, (Thursday,) and in the evening
left in steamer. Remained in Troy and vicinity until 1 on Friday, and
arrived here in the same evening ; remain Saturday and Sunday, and leave
in the morning for Canacla. " Yours affectionately,
" WM. HAMILTON MERRITT."
"Utica, July 7, 1846.
" Sir : — I hasten to enclose you a proposal from a number of influen
tial and responsible contractors for the completion of the railroad from the
Niagara River to Hamilton, and as much more of the line as will, after
proper surveys and estimates, amount to £400,000, with the opinion of W.
C. 'Toung, Esq., civil engineer, to whom reference was made, that the
prices are reasonable and proper ; also a subscription list for the stock, to
the amount of £100,000 in the Great Western Railroad Company, by the
same parties.
" Those contractors are not only responsible, but on enquiry you will
find they combine influence, intelligence, and great practical experience.
They are all properly organized, possess ample means to commence the dif
ferent sections, and break ground the moment your specifications of the
work are in readiness, and the ground or line marked out. Trusting it may
ensure the early completion of the work, and referring you to my private
letter for further particulars, " I have the honor to be, sir, your ob't serv't,
"W. H, MERRITT.
"^SiR Allen N. McNab." [private.] "Utica, July 7, 1846.
" My Dear Sir Allan : — In the absence of all information respecting
your movements, I enclose a copy of the proposal and documents accompa
nying the same ; the original I take back with me to be addressed to you
from St. Catharines to Hamilton, or any place you may direct, or forward
them to London ; also the copy of agreement, which has been used only as
directed, and the opinion of the members of the Legislative Committee.
" Notwithstanding the few days which has intervened since the receipt
of your documents, on the 25th ult,, everything has been accomplished
which was designecl, and I have no doubt the result will prove satisfactory.
An appointment was made with the most infiuential contractors to meet
Mr. "^oung and myself, to whom reference was made, there on the 3d inst.,
the earliest day the distance they resided would admit. Representatives
from three different companies attended, different proposals were submitted
for his (Mr, Young's) approval, and rejected. At length, after much time
and attention on his part, one was made which he considered equitable and
just, and on the evening of the 6th it was decided upon and signed. Per
haps a better selection of contractors could not ba made. Daniel Carmi-

310
ehael, of Brooklyn, N. Y,, has been for many years the leading man in the
firm of Carmichael, Fairbanks k Co., (the latter now in Prussia,) inventors
and managers of powerful machines for excavating earth, one now in use
on the deep cut, Welland Canal, where I had an opportunity of witnessing
the management of Mr. C. in different kinds of work with it. He has
been employed on most of the railroads from New Hampshire to Mary
land. He will give his personal attention to this line, and I feel confident a
more competent person could not have been selected. His company are
composed of men of property — they take one-fourth." "Second Letter — July 8.
" My Dear Sir Allan : — You appeared desirous to obtain the opiMons
of the different railroad companies here respecting the route, and value of
the work, of the Great Western. No doubt the strongest expressions of
opinion could be procured from every Company east of Rochester, if neces
sary, although I have not had the time or been in a situation to see the direc
tors of either since lea-ving St, Catharines.
" With regard to the facilities offered in constructing this road : In the
earliest settlement of this part of the country, roads were first opened in the
most natural and most direct situations from point to point. The Ridge
road from Rochester to Lewiston was considered the best in America. It
was on table land, on same level to Hamilton and thence to Detroit. Be
fore 1837 this was the only route traveled; thirty stages per day passed
through to Detroit. This route is now opened on almost a dead level, -via
Lockport, to Lewiston and Queenston, where de-viating from Lockport to the
Falls, to combine the advantages offered by that point of attraction, as well
as the connection of Buffalo by the present railroad.
" Two routes offer from the Falls — above and below the mountain. The
first lies most direct for Detroit ; the latter passes the most extensive man
ufacturing location in the western part of America, (the Welland Canal) ;
passes through numerous villages, and branching from Hamilton to To
ronto. The Western road through Chatham, Delaware, London, Brantford,
to Hamilton, will take as many way passengers and some more way
freight than any one of the roads named; connecting Stony Creek, Grimsby,
Beamsville, Jordan, St, Catharines, and the great manufacturing towns
which must spring up on the Welland Canal, to the Falls there can be
little doubt in this but the way passengers and freight will pay for
cost of construction. These routes wUl be determined from the combined
advantages each possess.
"Again, suppose the road on the north side of Lake Erie, to intersect the
Great Western on or about London, was made ; it would not only success
fully compete with the south side of Lake Erie, and draw far more travel
over the western part of the Great Western than it would take from it on
the East. I do not consider the Canada Southern road will affect it, termi
nate where it may. The southern population being inconsiderable, travellers
are more likely to pass over this than to travel on the other.
"With regard to other railroad routes : Notwithstanding a charter was
obtained last session to incorporate a railroad company to connect Albany
with New York by the Hudson, there is no doubt the New York and Erie
Railroad will be continued to Buffalo and Dunkirk, and in due course of
time on the south side of Lake Erie, But supposing it made, the travel
from Boston and New York, via Albany, will go over the Great Western.

311
" It is well to mention all these routes and place them fairly before the
stockholders, although there is not any immediate prospect of their being
constructed. I have consistently held to my original opinions respecting
the construction of railroads through the peninsula of Canada, running lat
terly with those lakes. I have never entertained a doubt that a railroad
on the south side of Ontario will yield a mnt, profitxbla invastmant.T his
opinion is groundly wholly on the extent of country connected, which is
unequalled in either Europe or America, and the facilities presented in the
formation of the country to connect it. " DuNDURN, Aug. 5, 1846.
" My Dear Sir : — I have written to Mr, Young this morning. I did
not receive your letter till after my return last night from Toronto. I am
much pleased with your success, and hope to meet you in Boston. I leave
hereon the 10th for Boston en route for England. I think that you had
better receive proposals for another $100,000 of shares.
" Our accounts from England are good, and I have great hopes that we
-will commence this fall. " Yours truly, "Ai^LAN N, McNAB."«ifl

" My Dear Sir :— I am sadly disappointed at not meeting you here.
Mr, Miller has arrived — he is with Mr. Young. I shall take them with me
to Boston, where you must follow in the morning. Tiffany is with me. It
is all important we should meet. "Truly,
" ALLAN N. McNAB."
The interview occurred as related on the 13th. Mr. Merritt returned
to the scene of operations, and Sir Allan embarked on his railroad mission.
While thus engaged he writes : —
"3 St, James Place, London, Sept. 10, 1846.
" My Dear Merritt :— I did not receive your letter with the petition
to Her Majesty, and papers connected with the Suspension Bridge, for some
days after I should have, in the usual course of post, received them. I im
mediately transmitted them, with your letter, to the Colonial Secretary, but
I am not yet informed that any determination has been come to. I shall
be able to let you know by the next mail. I am getting on famously with
the railway matters, and I am sure we will commenee very shortly— by the
next mail I think all will be completed, when I will write you.
" I am sorry to observe that my friends in Hamilton are under the im
pression that you have availed yourself of the opportunity afforded you, by
being engaged to assist and watch the interests of the Great Western Rail
way, to endeavor to induce Mr. Miller to take your part of the line fronn
Buffalo to Detroit— so injurious to the best interests of Canada, 1 regret
this on many accounts, particulariy as I assumed some responsibility in the
matter of your appointment, I trust they are mistaken, and that you will
be able to convince them that such was not the case. I will write you by
next mail. You will see all the news. Your new Governor-General will
not go out, I understand, till November. " Yours truly,
" ALLAN N. McNAB."

312 Montreal, Sept. 19, 1846.
" My Dear Sir :^I heartily rejoice at hearing of your difficulties being
all at an end. You can now turn the energies of your mind satisfactorily
to important public matters. I am told Miller, the English engineer, who
was sent out by the proposed English stockholders, (without Sir A.'s know
ledge), to judge of the line, country statistics, &c., has reported that before
ten years this country will be connected with the States, that he could not
recommend the investment of any money in the Great Western consequently,
and that in such an event the Bertie and Detroit Railway was the only one
that could succeed. Very faithfully yours,
" W. H. Merritt. " H, H, KILLALY.
The high price of provisions in the old country had made business good
for the millers here. On the 11th September Mrs. Merritt writes to her
father : " For the month past Thomas has been in Ohio purchasing wheat.
H. was up last week. He engaged a vessel on his return this morning, to
go to Sandusky for Thomas's wheat ; and J, P. started for Cleveland on
Tuesday, to take money, or rather Bills of Exchange, to purchase more.
The following brief correspondence closes the discussion regarding the
most profitable line of railway that had yet been offered to capitalists on
Canadian soil : — Black Rock, Nov. 27, 1846.
" Dear Sir : — Will you be so kind as to inform me of the prospects re
lating to the renewal of the charter of the Niagara and Detroit River Rail
road at your next session of Parliament. The Central Railroad of Michi
gan is now in the hands of a private corporation, who are progressing m
the most thorough manner with its completion to Lake Michigan, and on
its completion, the benefits to accrue to the N. k D. R. R. R., if constructed,
would be immense.
" I trust that the project is not abandoned by its Canadian friends.
Were it in the power of -the Americans in this State to do anything, the
effort would be made instantly, and scarce a moment would be losi; — were a
charter in existence — to conimence the prosecution of the work. Will you
be so kind as to inform me what are the prospects, and whether you intend
resuming your efforts at the next session of Parliament 1 What did Sir
Allan McNab do in his late visit to England touching the Hamilton road ?
Your early reply will much oblige
"Your friend and obedient servant,
" LOUIS F. ALLAN.
" W. H. Merritt." "Detroit, Nov. 21, 1846.
" Dear Sir : — You have no doubt heard that our Central Railroad has
passed into the hands of the Eastern capitalists. I had the pleasure of a
day from Judge Jones when he was last at the Assizes at Windsor, and was
happy to hear him say that the Canada road would in some form be made
¦without much delay.
" If business takes me through your jtaxt oi the country, rest assured I
shall try to call upon you. " Respectfully and truly yours,
" W. H. Merritt. C, SMOLIDGB."

313
In October he attended the first Provincial Exhibition, which was held
at Toronto, and was pleased to find the proofs of an intelligent and thriving
community so well displayed ; although not much of an agriculturalist, he
took a lively interest in all pertaining thereto, as he felt that his country
possessed all the essentials of soil and climate needed to make it powerful
and prosperous. At the dinner, which followed, he made an interesting
speech on the changes which he had witnessed from the time when his
father first settled in the new land.
A petition had been presented our subject from Mr, Deveaux, a friend of
Mr. MeiTitt's, asking for an act of incorporation for a Suspension Bridge
across the Niagara River. This was contemporary with a similar measure
in the Legislature of New York. Although it passed through our Parlia
ment, the Royal assent was not given until next year, when every prepara
tion had been made for going on with the work. Mr. Elliott, civil engi
neer was engaged to superintend the same. " DuNDHRN, Nov, 27, 1846.
" My Dear Merritt : — I have received a reply to the petition you sent
me for the Queen, praying her assent to the Suspension Bridge Bill, in
which the Colonial Secretary says " that Her Majesty having been advised
to assent to the Bill, the necessary measures will be taken at the next Coun
cil for giving effect to that decision." I have succeeded in all the other
matters in the most satisfactory manner. " Yours truly,
"ALLAN N. McNAB."

1847.
The year opened with great demonstrations of sympathy for their famine
stricken fellow-subjects in Ireland. Our subject did not lose sight of the in
terests of the agriculturists hare, and to show, in pamphlets and speeches, the
danger of a principle, by which the interests of the colonists would be, while
the connection lasted, subservient to British interests.
In relation to one of the agricultural meetings, the Economist of Febru
ary 4th says : — " We notice a public meeting in the Niagara District. Of its
paternity we presume there can be no doubt it bears the impress of the hand
of the member who represents the section of the country where the meeting
was held. It may be considered as an embodiment of the views which that
gentleman expressed on the floor of the House in his speech in which he
entered into great lengths into the ways and means of the colony,"
The following from the Conservative candidate who opposed our subject at
the next election, shows the unanimity of views held by both parties at that
time : —

314 " Louth, January '1st, 1847.
"Mt Dear Mr. Merritt, — I called at your house on Wednesday morti
ing week for the report as I stated to you I would, but found you had not yet
returned, Mr. Boomer however gave it me, which I took to Niagara and made
the following arrangements for its printing apd distribution, that is to say,
that 200 copies be printed in hand bills, one copy of which to be immediately
(first of this week) sent to each district councillor to be used at the town
meeting, remaining copies to be equally distributed at next session of the
council for use of townships, and each editor to give one gratuitous insertion
in their respective papers. I hope the above will be satisfactory to you. I
regret that Edmundson could not have had it in time. With kind regards to
Mrs. Mciritt and family. " I remain very truly yours,
"JAMES W. 0. CLARK."
" W. H. Merritt."
The Journal of Thursday, February 11, 1847, says : —
" The state of political quietude which has for some months prevailed
in the province, (a quietude induced by the idea that no amendment or
change could take place in Provincial affairs, before the arrival of the new
representative of royalty,) may now be expected to come to an end. The
reply which His Excellency made to the Montreal address will give real
pleasure to the friends of those principles of government which obtain in
the mother country, and who regard the integrity of the empire as the first
article of their political creed. It is a matter of regret that His Excellency
should, on his arrival, find a disorganized cabinet, which has violated all
those usages, regarded as sacred in Imperial practice. It is hoped that
Lord Elgin will at once perceive the feeble character of the Ministry and
the Legislature, and as speedily as possible nrake an appeal to the people.
The preparations for such an event, making by numerous conststuencies,
point to such a course as popular and expedient."
To the Editor of the Niagara Chronicle; — "St, Catharines, April, 1847.
" Sir, — The report of the agricultural meeting in this district first ap
peared in your journal in November last, in which an entire change in our
commercial policy was urged with a view of placing the agricultural on an
equal footing with any other existing interest in Canada, as well as on an
equal footing with the agriculturalists of the Western States. It also recom
mended the adoption of such measures as would attain the following objects: —
" First, — The free admission of all the products of Canada into the mar
kets of Britain. Second, — The free admission of all the products of Canada
into the markets of the United States. Third, — The equalization of our
internal or direct taxes. And fourth, — The removal of all duties on im
ports as soon as practicable. Each of these separate and distinct measures
have been before the public for some months, they have been attended to
in general terms by different editors, but not a single reason or argument
has yet been advanced against any.
" The attainment of the objects advocated in that report are, in my
judgement, essential to the preservation of this province as a colony of
Great Britain, as well as to the prosperity of its inhabitants.
"W. H. MERRITT."

315
" St. Catharines, Welland Canal, February 6th, 1847.
" Sir, — I have the honor to submit for the consideration of His Excellency the
Governor General, the enclosed letter from the British Minister at Washington,
which relates to the admission of the products of Canada into the ports ofthe
the United States without duty, a measure in my judgement, of far more im
portance than any other to which public opinion has been diverted. Under
this impression I addressed two private letters to the Provincial Secretary
here urging the Provincial Government to send on to Washington some private
gentleman to the different chairmen of committees and members of Congress
¦who possess influence to represent the justice and advantages it would confer
on them to admit our products, and to draw the distinction, which is by no
means understood there, between Canadian products and British manufactures,
to show the protection party we only require the former to be consumed in their
markets, not the latter.
" Mr. Packenham's letter is in reply to an enquiry respecting the actual
state of the negotiation, it confirms my previous apprehensions, the Executive
there, fearing the opposition of Congress, will not press the subject, the Protec
tionists do not understand the distinction, they think it a free trade measure
which will introduce manufactures from England, whereas we only require the
introduction of the products of Canada, say grain, provisions and lumber.
These articles they will send both to Britain and here free ; no person on the
spot will take sufficient interest in it to explain it, the session will pass over,
nothing will be di ne, time will glide on untill a bad harvest in America or an
abundant one in Europe, when the price of bread-stuffs in United States will
be higher than in Canada, the duty will meet us, dissatisfaction follows, and
we will realize the evil, after the time has passed away to ensure the remedy.
" Feeling that I have done my duty in using my exertions in my humble
sphere lo avert it, " I have the honor to be your obedient servant,
"W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
On the 6th of February, Lord Elgin arrived in Canada by way of Bos
ton, and was received in Montreal in a manner befitting the antecedents
of so distinguished a statesman.
As we have mentioned, agricultural meetings were held, principally in the
Niagara District, on the question of Reciprocity. Previous to the opening
of the session our subject appears to have been in extensive correspendence
with numerous influential persons at Washington. The result of it was,
that Mr. W. Hunt of Lockport, laid the matter before Congress in Decem
ber of last year, and it was resolved, " that the Committee on Com
merce be instructed to enquire into the expediency of establishing a Reci
procity between the United States and the Province of Canada, with a
view to the admission of the products of either countries to the ports of the
Other on a footing of equality." Mr. Merritt spoke to the Administrator
on the subject, explaining the advantages the country would derive from
the measure, and suggested that some competent person should be deputed
to visit Washington. The Administrator received the communication
¦without action ; but on the arrival of Lord Elgin our subject again reverted
to the matter, and Ms representation was duly attended to, as he received

316
letters of introduction to the British Embassy at Washington, and all op
portunities were afforded him to pursue the object in view. About this
period he seems to have broached the railroad communication in his corres
pondence with his old friend Sir John Harvey, who was now Governor of
Nova Scotia. From the stirring times of 1812 a warm friendship existed
between Sir John and our subjact, and his Excellency may be said to have
been as thoroughly Canadian in feeling as if to the manor bom. The
subject of the railway from Halifax to Quebec, in which Mr. M. took a
deep interest, was warmly urged by Sir John, and in his speech to the
Parliament of Nova Scotia, he makes the following patriotic, and we might
say almost prophetic remarks: " The period at, and the circumstances under
which we meet, affords me the opportunity of recommending to your con
tinued attention an undertaking second in its importance to none which
has ever engaged the notice of any Colonial Legislature in any portion of
the British Dominions. I allude to the projected railroad between Halifax
and Quebec, which will constitute the most important link in that great
chain of communication, which may be destined at no remote period to
connect the Atlantic with the Paciflc ocean, and to conduct to a British
seaport, from those unto which it is now forced, that vast stream of trade,
not only of our own western possessions, but of the rich and extensive
grain growing districts of all North America."
The alarming news of the terrible sufferings of the j)eople in Ireland
had by this time reached Canada, and the dread story of plague and famine
was soon told through the land. In St. Catharines our subject at once
convened a meeting of the people, at which he presided as chairman, and
in a plain statement of fact, told the stci-j"" of the distress of their fellow-
beings in the old land. An influential committee was appointed, and a
handsome sum subscribed, which was soon forwarded to the suffering people.
An act which was accomplished generally by the other committees through
out the country.
The demand for breadstuffs by the people in England caused an enor
mous trade on tbe canals — as many as forty laden vessels and barges passing
down the Cornwall Canal in a dtny, causing a marked change in that Mth
erto dull locality.
One of the first acts of the Government was in assuming the control of
our postal system, thus doing awa}' with one of Mr, McKenzie's greatest
grievances ; the first Postmaster General being the Hon. James Morris, of
Brockville, who was subsequently connected by marriage with our subject.
Mrs. Merritt says, ]2th January: — " They have got the telegraph under
way from Queen.ston to Toronto, and will soon have it to Buffalo, Of town
improvement-;, they have the reservoir finished, and the water brought in ;
the logs are now being laid to the main street, where there will be a cistern
kept full for the convenience of the inhabitants, and in case of fire. The ex
penses of town, iucl .ding water works, £1,348 for the last year."

317
• ,The telegraphic connection between Queenston and St. Catharines was
completed this season. On the 19th March, from Hamilton, a few dayg
after Mr. Merritt received, as an Opening, a despatch over the wires.
The utility of the Telegraph was soon seen by Mr. Merritt, and he im
mediately made arrangements for extending its usefulness along the line of
the canal, and had a branch line built from Port Dalhousie to Port Colborne,
which was of great advantage to the shipmasters and others.
Mr. Merritt left for the Legislature, accompanied by his spouse; they as
usual took the route through the States, via Oswego, Stopping at Utica,
there was added to the party a relative of Mrs. Merritt's. The following from
her diary gives an account of the voyage : —
'' We left home 25th May, Mr. Merritt to attend to his Legislative duties
in Montreal, and I in search of health, with Frances to visit her father in
Utica, came to Queenston in our own carriage, waited an hour, when James
took us and our trunks to the boat, and we were soon ferried down to steamer
St. Lawrence. Mr. Farwell met us with an umbrella as it was raining. Mrs.
^Farwell kept her berth. There were about half a dozen ladies in the cabin,
one of them went out about 9 to examine the indication of the weather, and
observed that it was moonlight, quite still, and we had nothing to fear. Heard
passengers going in and out at Rochester. I got up at 12 and opened my
stateroom window, the air was warm and balmy, but while endeavouring to get
the benefit of it the wind breezed up, and I had to close the window again;
slept untill about 3, when felt the vessel rocking, as my berth was crossways
I was obliged to rise and hold on to the tables and chairs. I managed to look
out, it appeared to be a steady blow and no danger apprehended, so I went to
bed and slept soundly till arrival at Oswego, took breakfast at Welland Hotel,
and went on board canal packet for Syracuse. The Oswego Canal was full of
boats, had a pleasant sail, though too cool to be on deck.
" May 26th, arrived at Syracuse at 4, should have taken cars, only they
did not start till six and we would be too late getting into Utica. Mr. Merritt
here left us and hired a carriage that took him to Chatenango ; he came on
board the packet again at ten. After breakfast, went on deck to have a view
of the beautiful scenery in that part of the county. , Mr. and Mrs. Farwell
pointed out every place of interest to us. She was in high spirits getting home,
after her journey to Hamilton.
" Cousin Clark came on board and took us to his house. Mr. and Mr.s.
Craft returning from Cooperstown in the afternoon came down for us and
we walked up with them. Called at Mr. Parwell's, the least we could do
after their pressing invitation to go home with them.
" On 27th Mr. Merritt went on to Albany by cars, Mrs, Craft and I fol
lowed the next day (Sat.) under the the protection of Mr. Munson. In
Albany the first person I saw on stepping out was Mr. Merritt, who was
waiting for us. Stopped to tea at the splendid Delevan House, went up
to Troy in a crowded stage or omnibus, spent part of the evening in the
public parlour till fatigued by the company, then retired to our rooms.
The pattering of a beautiful fountain in the inner court served to soothe
us, also to give an appearance of coolness and variety in a plot of grass
and trees.

318
"Sunday, 30th, — Mr. Merritt took us to the Presbyterian Church.
Rev'd. Mr. Burman preached from a singular text from Eccles. 9th chapter,
40th verse, ' For a living dog is better than a dead lion'. He was however, an
eloquent preacher and made a most excellent sermon.
" Left Troy at 3 o'clock in a horse car for Mechanicsville, 13 miles; as
we passed leisurely along the west side of the Hudson River I had a good
view of Lansingburgh, my native town ; the Diamond Rock, one mile back on
the hill, where with my youngest aunt I once picked up diamonds or rather
crystals. The road runs along the river's bank to Waterford, one mile, where
I have so often taken a walk with another, and with little girls, and in after
years, when going to school in Albany, with aunt Minerva and other young la
dies and gentlemen. I could not discover the slightest change ; there was old
Cornelius Lansing's high board fence with the fruit trees waving above it now
as then, that looked so tempting to me in childhood. At Mechanicsville we
were hurried out of the cars and on board the the packet-boat. There were
three ready to start, and I supposed the hurry was occasioned by each wishing
to be first, but was a little startled on entering the cabin to see a respectable
looking woman with a babe in her arms and a little girl about six years
old wiio afterwards proved to be the family of the captain, crying and wring
ing her hands, uttering incomprehensible articulations, such as, ' I know he
will be killed, I wish I could get ashore. Oh! dear,' and the like. The
boat was rushing on until the water rolled over the towing path ;
this was covered with men helping us on ; one of the women screamed, ' they
have cut the tow rope', but the boat still went on pulled by the men, again
they have cut the rope ; we had 2 lines and six horses. After a while the
rope was mended and we pushed far ahead of the other boat which had 9
horses ; this they called opposition. It appeared that the captain had served
the company for 13 or 14 years, now he had got a boat and set up for him
self and that the company were determined to run him off; such a scene I
was never in before, and hope I may never be again.
" The scenery along the Hudson is most beautiful. We passed Stillwater ;
(I once crossed the river at Stillwater with my pa.) . Next place of interest is
Burmese Heights, and the old breastworks where Burgoine surrendered bis
army. Passed Fort Edwards and Fort Ann in the night; arrived at White
hall early in the morning; breakfasted and went on board the steamboat Bur-
lino-ton, which left at 10 o'clock. This is the best conducted boat I ever was
in - she had lost one of her wheels, and performed the journey with the other.
At Whitehall the scenery is most picturescjue — mountains on every side. The
river is so crooked that there is one place called the letter S ; bays, islands,
inlets, groves, and every variety produced by the combination of land and
water. " At length that noted place in history, Ticonderoga, came in view. I
gazed and admired, and endeavored to recall some of the fearful accounts I
had heard in that wonderful place in years gone by — the most prominent was
that of Ethen Allen. I had often heard my father relate the anecdote of his
capturing the place with about 80 men ; he demanded the British to surrender ;
they asked by what authority. He replied, ' By authority of  ,' we will
not quote his impious threat, ' and the Continental Congress.'
" There is Mount Independence, Mount Hope, Mount Defiance. There
were ruins of fortifications at Crown Point, and Chimney Point. The boat
pissed quite near two pretty little islands ; they appeared so lonely and beau
tiful amidst the waste of waters that I gazed at them as long as they were

319
¦visible. A lady told me they were called the 'Two Sisters.' And there is the
' Four Brothers, ' not so pretty, but larger.
''About 12 o'clock the boat stopped for the night at Champlaine, or as it is
now called Rouse's Point. Breakfasted at St. John's, and proceeded by
railway to Lapraire. The country is almost a dead level, with very
ieyi trees. There are roads crossing our track every few miles, studded
wjth \o% French houses of a very uniform appearance, small gardens and
some few fruit trees in blossom. 'The land is all laid out in large long fields,
with seldom a tree or a shrub to be seen ; indeed the only object to break the
monotony of perfect sameness is three mountains in the distance, the largest I
am told is the famous cross mountain of old.
" Arriving at Lapraire it rained, and we crowded on board the steam ferry
for Montreal, 9 miles. Arriving at this famous city, we came directly to
'Donegana's. I having a cold, let Mrs. Crafts and Mrs. Merritt go to 6
o'clock dinner. I take a day in their absence to write up the details of oue
journey." On the 2d of June, Lord Elgin opened his first Parliament, and in his
speech mentioned reciprocity ; reiterated the promises of Lord Sydenham,
by stating that the Imperial Government were surveying a railway from
Halffax to Quebec, and had subsidized steam communication to the same
place. The Hon. Peter McGill was chosen Speaker of the Legislative
Council, and Sir Allan McNab to the same position in the Commons.
The author visited the capital at the opening of the House. The Gov
ernor delivered his speech in a clear, decided tone, and it was received,
not without approbation, though the ministry was not popular, or one likely
to carry a working majority in the House. On his journey, and also at
Montreal, he was witness of the distress of the fever stricken emigrants,
who filled the passage boats and sheds.
In the answer to the Speech, our subject took an exhaustive review os
the commerce of the country, and trusted that bold and energetic measures
would be brought forward to encourage the same ; also impressing upon
the House the necessity of carefully scanning eyery item of the public ser
vice, as the strange incidents, in connexion with the sale of crown lands,
showed that during the past twenty years ten millions of acres of land had
been purchased from the Indians, and vast quantities sold, and yet the
Treasury was not a farthing richer. Reciprocity was again discussed, and
the feeling towards its accomplishment increased.
" St. Catharines, 6th July, 1847.
" Sir,— I herewith enclose you copies of Resolutions passed and unani
mously adopted at a public meeting held here last night ; Mr. Rykert having
been called to the Chair, and myself appointed Secretary.
" Your obed't serv't, BARNARD FOLEY. "
"Wm. Hamilton Merritt, Esq., M. P. P., Montreal.
" Moved by A. C. Hamilton, seconded by R. M. Clement : — Resolved,
That this meeting has learned with alarm that a bill to revive the charter of
the Niagara and Detroit Rivers Railroad Co. has passed a second reading in.

320
the Legislative Assembly, as this meeting is of opinion that if such charter
shall pass into a law, will seriously injure the prosperity of the Province, by
diverting from its canals and Lake Ontario a portion of the trade of the West
ern States, and by delaying for many years the construction of a Provincial
line of railway from Windsor and Sarnia to Montreal.
"Moved by Mr. W.Atkinson, seconded by Capt. Tench: 2. Resolved, Th&t
in case such road should be made, it would, by diverting a portion of such
trade, decrease the revenue which otherwise would accrue upon the Welland
and St. Lawrence Canals.
"Moved by Mr. P- McGuire, seconded by Mr. D. P. Haynes: 3. Re
solved, That in the present state of tbe public debt, and considering that a
large portion of it has been incurred in constructing said canals, it would be
unwise to sanction any act which might impair the revenues to be derived
from them.
" Moved by Dr. Goodman, seconded by Jacob Hainer : 4. Resolved, That
the route taken up by the Great Western Railroad Co., from the proposed site
of the Suspension Bridge on the Niagara River, passing through St. Catha
rines, Hamilton, and all the principal towns in the western part of the Pro
vince is one which, while it will develope the resources of the country in the
highest degree, will also afford facilities for the intercourse between the two
sections of the United States in an equal or greater degree than the Niagara
and Detroit Rivers Railroad.
"Moved by E. W. Stephenson, seconded by James Boyd: 5. Resolved
That a petition to His Excellency the Governor General, and also the Hon.
the Legislative Council be framed, embodying the foregoing resolutions, and
that Messrs. Hamilton, Burns, Clement, Doctor Goodman and Atkinson be a
committee to draft the same.
" The petitions were here introduced and read by the Secretary, praying
the Legislative Council not to pass the bill, and to His Excellency not to give
his assent thereto. The petitions will be forwarded to Montreal as soon as
signatures can be obtained.
" Moved by Dr. Chace, seconded by Alva Dittrick : 6. Resolved, That the
petition now read be adopted and circulated for subscription, and forwarded
to the seat of Government \\'5thout delay.
" Moved by R. M. Clement, seconded by John Copeland : 7. Resolved,
That Wm. Hamilton Merritt, Esq., our representative in the House of Assem
bly, be requested to lend his aid in defeating the application for said renewal
bill. " Moved by Barnard Foley, seconded by R. M. Clement: 8. Resolved,
That the Chairman of the meeting do request Sir Allan McNab and other
directors ofthe Great Western Railway Co. in Montreal, to communicate to
W. H. Merritt, Esq., M, P. P., whether it is the intention of the Company
to adopt the fine of road laid down through St. Catharines.
"GEO. RYKERT, Chairman.
"BARNARD FOLEY, Secretary."
The House was prorogued on the 29th July, after a short and inactive
session. On Mr. Merritt's return home, he proceeded to Mayville, where
he spent a short time in recuperating his tired system and preparing for the
coming events in connexion with the great schemes which were now before
the people of Canada, and in which he was particularly interested.

321
At the close of the Provincial Exhibition in Hamilton, this year. Lord
Elgin visited St. Catherines and a portion of the canal, and then went on
to the Falls, from thence returning to Montreal in the steamer " Cherokee."
A meeting of those interested in the milling interest was called by Mr. M.,
and the question of Reciprocity was fully discussed, and resulted in a letter
being sent to the Agricultural and Arts Association of the province, urging
a unanimous action on this subject amongst the manufacturing interests, ati
it had been done by the farmers.
We think the following letter to his fatherin-law, relating to the affairs
of the family, may not be considered irrevelant. It was the last communi
cation, and they never met again in this world to sympathise with one an'
other's successes and disappointments. : —
"St. CATHARiNbs, November 27th, 1847.
"My Dear Father, — As the season is near closing, it may be satisfac
tory for you to hear of our proceedings during the year.
" Jedediah continues reading, gaining information, and attending to his
Post Office, Lots, Buildings, kc. and enjoys good health.
" William has been reading closely since his return, has regained his
health and passed. Ha is now a Barrister and Attorney, and is now ready
for professional business. He will continue however, a few months longer
in Toronto, to perfect himself in practice, after which I think it probable
he will commence here. He is picking up a small library, and will as soon
as he can, send for four or five hundred dollars worth of books to London,
of latest reports and standard works, to commence on equal terms with his
competitors. , " Thomas has entered into business as deeply as is prudent for so young
a man. He continues with Benson, in the hardware business. Their co
partnership ended last year, but they are likely to continue in the millirg
business, and are making fair profits. They built two vessels last year, the
Welland, which takes 2400 bbls. of flour, Shickluna, (named after the builder)
cargo 3,000 bbls., the first cost £2,000, this cleared £1,000 during the sea
son; the 2nd cost £2,200, a fine vessel, but coming out late, has not done
miich. In addition, Nehemiah Merritt has built a tine three masted schooner,
which they manage, cost £3,500, and has cleared £900 or $3600, during
the season — so they are largely in the shipping business, which, connected
with the mills, is profitable thus far, Thomas manages the mills, all the
financial and banking business, and appears to possess the mind and indus
try so indispensible for any persun who enters on the management of so ex
tensive a transaction.
" He has seven runs in stone Mill, is building another with three, and
a stone store house in front leading to the canal. These erections will
not be complete until March next, when he will have one of the best pro
perties of the kind in the province. His credit in Montreal, New York,
and here, stands among the first, so that he has every advantage, and, if
prudent, is likely to succeed.
" Mrs. Merritt, I am happy to say, has greatly improved in her health,
and if you will come out, we will send for you to spend Christmas with us,
and send you back, we will all be then together, and I think you would
enjoy yourself for a time at least.

322
"We are about ha-ving a new election, and I may again offer, but not
quite certain.
" All well, and nothing new that will interest you.
" Remember me to all our relatives and friend Peacock and family, am
very glad to hear that David Beamus is with you, hope he will continue,
with my prayers for your health and happiness,
" I am, my dear sir, very truly yours,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
" J, Prendergast, Esq., M. D,"

1848.
The Parliament was dissolved, and the writs for the election were
returnable on the 24th of January. On the lOfch our subject was
again elected by a majority of 346. As customary, he made a speech,
wherein were advocated tha usual reforms wanted, viz. — A law to
compel the Inspector Genera! to publish the Public Accounts ; Proceeds
of public lands to be appropriated in a sinking fund for Educational purposes.
Reciprocity, Banking System, A oanal at the Sault St. Marie, &c.
As this year Mr. Merritt entered the Governmaat under the new Reform
administration called by Lord Elgin, after the old leaders, denominated the
Baldwin-Lafontaine Governmant, we will continue to give extended extracts
from his private journals.
The fermant throughout the country occasioned by the abrogation of the ,
Com Laws began to settle down, and a market for our surplus products
in the United States was now sought for.
Mr, Wetenhall writes from Nelson, February 7th, 1848, on the subject
of appointing an agent to obtain Reciprocity from the United States : —
" I know no one except yourself in any way competent, to the task,
or for whose services we could expect to obtain the desired boon. As Par
liament meets so soon, it would be impossible for you to go, as it -will be
neoessai-y you should be in Montreal, and indeed your services in the coming
session will be indispensable as many of the members seem to have a happy
ignorance of the details of all mercantile measures, besides your acquaintance
with the trade which exists, or rather ought to exist between this colony
and the United States is much greater than that of any other member of
the House."
Washington Hunt writes his opinions from WasMngton, Feb'y5, 1848 :
"We have treaty stipulations with several countries, by which they are
to occupy the attention of the most favoured nations in respect to commerce.
We shall report a bill extending the
draw-back system to Canadian wheat manufactured in the States and then
exported, we will make your wheat as valuable as our own in the Ameri
can markets. We would receive all Canadiaa
productions including manufactures, free of duty."

323
Mr. Merritt tried to get his appointment to Washington sanctioned by
aa many of the influential bodies in Canada as possible, as he had no expect
ation of having his mission authorized by the Government.
Geo. Percival Ridout writes as President Toronto Board of Trade, Jan.
^3nd, 1848 :—
" At a general meeting of the Toronto Board of Trade that took
place last evening, your communication underwent consideration, and the
importance of the subject alluded to was unanimously admitted, and your
valuable instrumentality in the matter cheerfully acknowledged."
On March 3rd, there is a long letter from the Secretary of Agricultural
Association, saying that since the Government had taken it up, they would
not send an agent to Washington.
Messrs. Bronson and Croaker write from Oswego, March 21st, 1848 :
" There has been a report made and bill introduced in Congress in favor
of allowing wheat to be imported and exported in flour under Debenture,
the same as flour, but that Bill does not go so far as to propose free trade
in bread stuffs, but leaves that for our respective goveinments to effect
under a Reciprocity arrangement, which we hope may be effected at no
distant day."
The author's acquaintance with the illustrious Canadian patriot, Louis
J^ Papineau, while an exile in Paris, was renewed, where, sanctioned by
long experience, he inculcated lessons of loyalty to the Imperial Ministiy,
and their old constitution ; the responsible government in the colonies ho
had no confidence in. This view was matured by experience, causing him
in his latter years, to be for annexation, and tolerate the absorption of hii
lieloved Canada in the United States.
The Montreal Pilot of Wednesday, Jan'y 5th, 1848, remarks on Mr.
Papineau's address to his constituents : —
" Mr. Papineau, it is deeply to be regretted, has, after mature consider
ation, arrived at the conviction that the present constitution is wholly in
sufficient to secure the blessings of a liberal and responsible Grovemment to
the Canadian people, looking to the past history of the country, and to the
conduct of former governors. He is firmly persuaded, and we are quite
free to admit that he has some ground for his opinion, that Responsible
Government will not be honestly administered in the colonies. He appre
hends that Downing Street interference will still be persevered in, and that
the Governor will be fettered by instructions which will wholly nullify the
influence of his own constitutional advisers and of Parliament.
"Admitting as we do, and as our political friends have ever done, that
the past history of the province affords very ample grounds for Mr. Papi
neau's apprehensions, yet we regret that he should decline joining with the
Uberal party in making the attempt to work under the present constitution,
and in endeavoring with them to obtain such amendments in the Act of
UMon as a regard to the public welfare may dictate. While, however, Mr.
Papineau has frankly stated the groundsjin which he deems it inex peient
that he should take any part in public affairs under present circumstances.
It is Mghly gratifying to observe that he appreciates the honest exertioas

324
of those who have more faith than himself in the sincerity of the Imperial
Government, as well as in the practicability of obtaining a redi-ess of griev
ances under tha existing constitution. Mr. Papineau not only recommendst
that the liberal candidates should be supported, but we have been assured
on undoubted authority that he is decidedly of opinion that no agitation
for constitutional changes should take place until another fair trial had been
given to the Imperial authorities."
Extracts from private journal : —
"Tuesday, February 15th, 1848, 6:30 A. M.
" Left St. Catharines for Montreal in carriage by Hamilton, arriving at
^Toronto same evening, called on Proudfoot and Ridout, transacted some
money affairs and left at half past eleven, with Mr. Hamilton and Col. Prince
arrived at Cobourg at 10 at night, the moon shone in its full brightness,.
there was no snow — as mild a winter has not been witnessed in the memory
of man. On Tuesday breakfasted at Belleville, at Kingston by nine in the
evening, and slept at Prescott Friday, there was some snow at this part of
the route, thence to Coteau du Lac at 11. P. M., where we slept. Sunday,
September 19th — Arrived at Montreal at 7. P, M., putting up at Donegana's
Hotel, same as last year. Monday called on the Hon. R. Baldwin,
and presented my letter and statement of the finances of Canada compared
with those previous to the union, and the state of New York at present.
(Tuesday,) Did banking business for T. R. Merritt, and wrote letters. (Wed
nesday 2.3d) Called on the directors of the Great "Western. ^Thursday 24th}
Called on Mr. William Gunn, cashier of Montreal Bank, My son "William,
whom I left at Toronto, arrived. (25th) Attended to Suspension Bridge
business, transferring shares to Stayner, Williamson, Bradburn, etc.
" Attended House, the Governor General comes down, commands the
attention of the Legislative Assembly, they walk up to the bar of the Legisla
tive Council, the Speaker of which informs them that he will not communicato
the objects for v.'hich he has assembled them until they choose a Speaker,
that he will meet them on Monday at 2 o'clock to communicate the object
for which they are summoned. Thus ends Friday and Saturday in idle
ceremony in the place of profitable business.
"Mr. Morin was eleototl Speaker, 5 to 19 against Sir Allan McNab.
Saturday, 26th. — Received the annual report of the commissioners of the
canal fund ; this is followed by four pages of Mr. Merritt's journal, contain
ing analysis.
" February 27th. Attended the Christ's Churcli with Killaly. Monday,
'iSth. — Occupied with the Governor's speech, which, with election notices,
occupied this clay, I wrote three business letters. 29th. — House occupied
with Emigration Bill during the day, reported resolutions. 20th. — Hincks'
election, and the Beauharnois occupied until 5 in the moming.
" March 2nd — On privilege, Hincks, De Witt and Cameron took their
seats. (3rd) Amendment of the speech, a tedious debate ensued thereon,
which occupied this day. Received a telegraphic communication from Mr.
Wallace, of the Southern Railroad, answered in writing that it could not
be carried. " Saturday, 4th. — First meeting was held in the Speaker's room on the
subject of aid to the different railroads ; he proposes to guarantee a loan of
£60O,OOO for the Portland Railroad, and what may be required for the
Great Western. I submitted, in opposition, the terms of last year's report.

325
" I heard by telegraph from Mr. Copeland, of the demise of Dr. Prender
gast. About the same time another distinguished man, John Quincy Adams
was called to his last account.
" Wednesday, 15. — Mr.  , having objected to prorogation yes-
"tferday, a caucus was held this evening and a general assent given to leave
every measure to the direction of the ministry. Brought in reciprocal reso
lutions this day. Thursday, 16th. — Urged the assent of the ministry to
the measure which was unavailing.
" Plan proposed for raising money for further public improvement in
Canada. On the 1st of April, 1847, Earl Grey, the Colonial Secretary sends
a despatch to the Earl of Elgin, Governor General on the subject of emigra
tion, recommending him to suggest some plan to promote that object, pro
mising to propose to Parliament, who would not ba slow to sanction the
employment of the pecuniary resources of the country in the furtherance
¦of such on object. See journals, page 10 Jf.
" The first consideration is to provide employment to the emigrant on
his arrival, to enable him to earn his living without remaining a burden to
the Imperial or Provincial Government, This can be most effectually ac
complished by constructing public works. The second consideration is in
what manner the capital can be furnished with the least expense for the
mutual advantage of both countries.
" It appears that Great Britain first became interested in encouraging
the movenment of emigration to Canada, that the Provincial Government
feel interested in the construction of various public works. The Govern
ment of Great Britain have the command of any sum of money on their
credit, and the Government of Canada lands, valued at £4,432,118, 6-7tha
at their disposal. This capital they purpose laying aside, or appropriating
for a common school fund, the interest of which is to be expended for that
purpose only.
" To render the most certain and effectual aid to emigration, and create
this school fund in the shortest possible time, it is proposed on the inti
mations of the despatch referred to, to furnish , the means, 'to negotiate a
loan of £2,500,000 at once, to be advanced by the British Government, at
4 per cent interest, to be repaid out of the proceeds of land. The money to
be drawn for as required for the prosecution of those works which will re
pay interest of 6 per cent. The lands to be pledged by an act of Parliament
for its repay al, and to be applied for no other object. 'The operation would be
thus : — '"The capital the public now hold invested in land would be converted
into money. 2nd, The capital then held in money would be invested in
railroads and other improvements, which would repay an interest. This
interest would create a fund for common schools and district libraries. 5th,
This fund would not only be the means of creating employment for the emi
grant, but provide education for the children for all time to come."
In the interim he was occupied in preparing the subjects already hinted
At in his address to his constituents.
Our subject supported Mr. Baldwin's motions of No Confidence, which
«*rried by a majority of 34. The House immediately adjourned, pending
the arrangements of the new Ministry. Although he agreed with Mr.
Baldwin in the inefficiency of the old Ministry, yet he had grave doubts at
^ whether the incoming one would be better, as he writes : — " I very much

326
fear the cabinet selected will not adopt the means the country requires — w»
have seven lawyers, and four of them from Montreal, lei-ving Malcolm Caai-
eron to represent the business interest of Upper Canada."
" Monday, March 6th — The House waited on His Excellency at twelve
o'clock. Ministers inform House they held their places until others are
appointed. Tuesday, 7th — Brought in the petition of Brock Palmer, Clin
ton ; Philip Wismer, Clinton ; John Ball, Grantham. Wednesday, 8th—
Nothing new or doing. New ministry • forming. Thursday, 9th. Not yet
complete. Nothing done in the House except numerous petitions against
sitting members. 10th — Mr. Holmes moves an adjournment. Ministry
not yet formed. One fortnight passed away since session and nothing done.
Saturday, 11th — Ministry announced by the Pilot newspaper : — Mr. Sulli
van, a lawyer. Provincial Secretary ; Mr. Lafonte, a lawyer. Attorney
General, L. C; Mr. Baldwin, a lawyer, Attomey General ; Mr. Blake, a
la-wyer. Solicitor General ; Mr. Alwin, a lawyer. Solicitor General ; Mr.
Price, a la-wyer. Commissioner Crown Land ; Mr. Caron, a lawyer. Speaker
Legislative Council ; Mr, Leslie, merchant, President Council ; Mr. Hincks,
printer. Inspector General ; Mr. L. M. Yiger, banker. Receiver General ;
Mr. Tache, doctor. Commissioner Board of Works ; Mr. Malcolm Cameron,
merchant. Assistant Commissioner Board of Works. In all twelve mem
bers, seven Lower Canada, five Upper Canada. I very much fear the
Cabinet selected will not adopt the measures the country require. Besides
seven lawyers, neither of whom profess to understand anything about the
finances of the country, we have four gentlemen from Montreal, Messrs.
Leslie, Vigor, Hincks, and Dr. Tache, leaving Malcolm Cameron to rep
resent the business of Upper Canada, or say United Canada.
" If those departments were filled by individuals selected from or by the
people, would the above choice be made 1
" One of the evils of the present system appears to be the composition
of the Government. Some half a dozen individuals select the Government.
Fitness for the situation is not looked for, it is the hope of strengthenmg a
party. I have, from the first session, had my misgiving as to the proper
working of the system.
"Sunday, 12th. — Read a most pathetic tale of Irish life, 'The Poor
School Boy,' the sentiments in which are instructive, well told, and not
likely to be read without emotion.
"Monday, 13th — Presented petitions from the District Councils for a
law to pass the Macadam Road through Jordan, when made. For repeal
ing 11th, Geo. 4, Cap. 20 and 3d, Wm. 4th, Cap. 45, of conferring power
on the District Council to provide forthe Insane and destitute. Complain
ing of the injurious effects of 9th Vict. Cap. 2, Act 5, imposing 2d per gallon
on spirits distilled in Canada.
Tuesday, 14th — Presented petitions of Suspension Bridge and to rednee
capital. Committee on Railroads formed."
In order to give the Ministry an opportunity to mature their plans, ti»«
Govemor prorogued the House on the 23rd March.
Our subject then addressed the Premier with the greatest fearlessness
and entire sincerity, though always with the respect due to stations, either
imperial or colonial.

327 "Montreal, March llth, 1848.
"My dear Sir, — I owe yra an apology for my premature note of yester
day, it arose from the information conveyed to me by mutual friends, in your
confidence. _ You are well aware it w:is my intention to retire from public life
before offering as a candidate, from a conviction that my opinions or exertions
under any change in the present position of parties were not likely to prove
eeiviceable to Canada. Your letter induced me to change that opinion ; from
that time my attention has been again devoted to the means of placing the
finances of Canada in as favourable a position as those of our rivals in New
York, the government of which in 1866, will be free from debt, the inh:ibitants
from faxes, and commerce from toll.
" This idea would have been ridiculed at first by .those who have not the
application to examine and understand it. Any person venturing to originate
any measure effecting great and important changes in any branch of our politi
cal or financial policy must expect to encounter ignorance and prejudice ; but
if the measure is truly sound, of which I have fully satisfied my own mind,
they -would soon be led to acknowledge the opinion of an individual who has
originated more measures -which have since been c-irried into successful opera
tion than any other person in Upper Canada, was entitled to consideration.
Those measures, in the confusion of political discussion, may have escaped your
mind. I will therefore allude merely to the following : —
" In 1832, the first notice I ever made was for the construction of the ship
canal to connect the navigable waters of the St. Lawrence. It was then ridi
culed ; and although from incompetency, misinanagement and neglect not com
plete, public opinion acknowledges the wisdom of the measuro. The wealth it
will create for Canada cannot be estimated.
" In 1833. The repeal of duties in Britain on the exports of Canada was
originated by an address — the attempt to obtain this boon, agLLinst the agri
cultural interest of the mother country was then considered wholly unworthy
of notice. A personal interview with Lord Stanley' in 1842 procured its
adoption in the same year. The wealth created to the entire province may be
realized by the increased price of 2s. 4id. per bbl. of flour to tha grow.er.
" In 1835, I brought in the first bill to make the interest payable on de
bentures in England.
" In 1836, drew up a report recommending the application to Great Britain
for Imperial credit, which was reiterated by Sir George Arthur and consum
mated by Lord Sydenham in 1841. About the same time an address was
moved pra_\ing for the power of originating bills to increase or diminish cus
tom duties here. It was objected to by Mr. Poulette Thompson, then President
ofthe Board of Trade. Iu 1840 in a personal interview, he admitted he did
not understand it, wrote bis despatch (93) which no doubt induced Lord Jjhu
Russell to propose the British Possessions Act.
" I admit 1 have been signally successful in my opposition to various mea
Bures — the Board of Works Bill — under which the waste of public money has-
been unprecedented ; clause to limit the expenditure of increased revenue, to
the payment of the debt for which it was created, in which you voted with me ;
and all those measures, roads, bridges, &c., which will not repay an interest,
had and will have my opposition. It is monstrous to borrow capital, spend it,
and not provide the means to pay the interest at any future day.
" These leading monetary and financial measures is^proof the subject has
seen consideration. It was my intention to render you effectual assistance iu
working out your system, the success of which, in my judgment, dependa

328
-wholly on the ability aud industry of the men selected for the management of
each separate department. The opportunity has gone by, and I hope those
selected may prove better qualified fbr their several duties. The efforts of an
individual membar are powerless ; I can therefore be of no service in either
aiding the Administration or promoting any great leading measures ; and on
the contrary I feel it a great relief No pacuniary consideration co'ald then
induce me to accept it.
" Having commenced a new Parliamant, however, I am desirous to turn
my attention to the only object in which I am now likely to prove useful ; that
is, obtaining the admission of Canadian products into the markets ofthe Uni
ted States for consumption, free from duty. Wheat is now near 50 cents per
bushel higher on the American side than in Canada, how long that will con
tinue to give satisfaction you may well imagine, therefore the present adminis
tration are interested iu removing the cause. Your aid will ba most useful,
and I would be glad to leave this in a few days to effect it if practicable, should
it meet your approval. " Very truly yours,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
"Hon. R.Baldwin."
" Had an interview with His Excellency, who gave me a letter of
introduction to John F. Crampton, Charge D'Affairs of the British Ern-
bassy, Washington. As no measure was likely to pass, I made up my mind
to leave on Saturday.
"Tuesday, 17th. — Copy of a letter enclosed this day from Lord Elgin
to Charge D'Affairs named above.
" Lord Elgin presents hife compliments to Mr. Crampton, and begs to be
permitted to introduce to him the bearer of this letter, Mr. Merritt, who is
now on a visit to the United States. Mr. Merritt is an influential member
of the Canadian Legislative Assembly, and takes an especial interest in the
establishment of equality of trade between Canada and the United States.
On this subject, should you be disposed to converse with him, he will prob
ably be able to afford useful information. " Elgin k Kincardine.
" Montreal, 16th March, 1848."
" Saturday, 18th March. — Left the House at 4 o'clock, with leave.
Wrote Eston Crampton, F, Fuller, about Cassells.
" Sunday, 19th. — Attended Christ Church. Mr. Adamson preached.
"Monday, 20th.— Wrote Yates, Crafts, J. Jones, Stamford; Grenville,
Thorold ; Fillmore, Albany ; D. Thorbum the same.
" The first session of 1848 was prorogued on Thursday, the 23rd inst.,
four days after my departure, having been assembled since the 25th March,
about one month, during which eighteen bills were passed ; only one, (for
inspasting of flour, anl assimilating it to tbe American standard,) is of any
commercial interest. The Emigration Bill, ona of general interest, and the
only one alluded to in tha Governor's speech in proroguing the House.
The objects alluded to in the opening speech are again prolonged until after
the recess, when our attention will be directed to various measures for de
veloping the resources of the province, and promoting the social well being
of its inhabitants — a most tardy process, unprecedented for extravagance.
It is to ba hoped the measures alluded to will give the satisfaction antici
pated by the change of administration.

329
"Arrived in town Sunday 26th, after a week of slow progress. Attended
CSirist's Church and St. James' Cathedral."
He returned home via the States, and crossed over the river in a basket,
which was the mode of conveyance used in the erection of the New Suspen
sion Bridge, the works of which were now being rapidly pushed on. The
position in crossing was a novel one, as the reflections likely to arise on be
ing suspended in a frail vehicle at such an enormous height, and in such a
situation, can be better imagined than described.
" Monday, 27th.— Returned to St. Catharines.
"Tuesday, 28th. — Arranged business for an early departure for Chatau
que on the morrow.
"Wednesday, 29th — Left at 9 o'clock with Dr. Chase's horse and buggy.
Mr. W. Copeland and Oswald accompanied me to the site of the Suspen
sion Bridge. Met Charles Elliot, Esq., contractor, wife and two children,
who had just crossed in a cradle under a single cable l^ inch diameter,
(36 strands.) I went over with Copeland and our baggage ; examined the
ground and work in progress.
" The impression on my mind was that very little work had yet been done.
A meeting was called fbr Friday. Wrote Mr. Street on my arrival at Buf
falo, that the 10 per cent, should be called in, as required by the Engineers,
and monthly meetings of the Board held hereafter. Wrote Mr. Elliot to pre
pare monthly estimates, that the Board may proceed with regularly and uu-
derstandingly in calling in their estimates.
" Wrote to Dix k Hunt, as well as above, to write me if fny presence
would be of any service. Mr. Charles Elliot's description of the two plans
for Suspension Bridge : Keefer's 8 cables ; Mr. Elliot's 16 cables. Keefer's
24 feet wide ; Elliot's 28 feet wide. Keefer's wagon straggle rail ; Elliot's
two separate tracks. K. — Supported triumphal arches ; E. — Isolated col
umns. K. — Cables fastened in vertical walls ; E. — Without change in the
direction continued, same slant, stiffened by How's patent truss above and
below the floor — other longitudinal girders. The fastening and the floor is
the only difference I can at present perceive.
" My ideas, a^ter crossing the river in th? cradle, have beea considerably
«hanged. The facilities which the wire cable affords for foot passengers will
in a short time dispense with ferries at the Falls and Queenston. The cheap
ness of these constructions is too great a temptation to dispense with them
from Goat Island to the Canadian side; and one of the 'principal sources of
profit, namely, foot passengers, will be reduced. In my judgment the early
Mnstruction of the railway in connection with the bridga is indispensable, and
requires the action of the first meeting to prepare the documents, at least to
carry it into effect.,
"A road bridge will also be constructed at Queenston, without doubt, to
descend both ways, on the same plan, and at one-half the expense. The sim
plicity, cheapness and security of this contrivance for taking over any burden
is strikingly apparent."
He remained home but a short time, during which he received the fol
lowing letters from Washington, which induced him, after the arrangement
of some necessary family concerns, to repair thither :

330 " Washington, March 25th, 1848.
" SiR^ — I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of
the 17th inst., inclosing a letter of introduction from His Excellency th«
Eari of Elgin.
" In reply to your inquiry, I lose no tima in stating to you, that I should
feel much gratified, should it be convenient to you to visit Washington, to
confer with you upon the subject of the desired equalization of duties batween
Canada and the United States ; and I cannot doubt that your preseno* •
would very much tend to advance the object Her Majesty's Government
have in view.
"This subject, which was brought under the consideration of the Uni
ted States Government by Mr, Pakenham last year, has not been lost sight
of by me ; and I had lately a conversation upon it with Mr. Secretary
Walker, and with Mr. Dix of New York ; both these gentlemen are favour
ably disposed to the measure ; and Mr. Walker promised me to bring it
under the consideration of the Cabinet forthwith.
" It would give me great pleasure, however, to put you in communica
tion -with Mr. Walker upon the subject; as well as with such of the mem
bers of Congress as it would ba important to have correctly informed with
regard to the practical effect of the measure. Your superior knowledge of
the localities, and of the details of the matter, in which I necessarily feel
myself deficient, would enable us to overcome much of the difficulty
which may arise from a misapprehension of the true bearing of the case by
the members of the protectionist party in Congress.
" I have the honor to be, sir,
" Your most obedient and humble servant,
"JOHN F. CRAMPTON."
"Hon. W. H. Merritt, M. P, P." "Washington, March 25th, 1848.
" My dear sir, — Tt is not to be expected that Congress will make any
Bttaterial change in our revenue laws this session, yet I believe you can do
much good by coming here, and if my opinion is of any avail, let me advise
you to come on and spend some time -with us. You can impart information
to members of Congress which may ba of great utility hereafter, when »
more favourable time for legislation shall arrive. At present, the subject
is somewhat in abeyance, awaiting negotiations ; the present negotiation
does not embrace tha objects you have in view ; but I think you can do
much to enlarge its scope, by making free communications to our Secretary
of State. " Aside from these public reasons, permit me to add that it will afford
me great pleasure personally, to see you here and to show you how legisla
tion is conducted in our ' federal city.'
" With great regard, your's truly,
" W. HUNT."
" W. Hamilton Merritt, Esq.''
Postponing the Bridge matters, which had not been progressing ia »
satisfactory manner, owing to his already too long but necessary abseaoe,
he soon joined Mrs. Merritt in Mayville, where he remained for three
weeks in assisting to settle the estate of his father-in-law. Dr. P.

331
As noticed, Mr. M. had left on Feb'y, 15, to be present at the opening of
the House on the 25th ; soon after his departure, Mrs. Merritt received the
sad news of the serious illness of her aged father. Dr. Prendergast, who was
equally tbe friend and adviser of our subject ; she immediately started with
her son William to the family residence in Mayville, and arrived in time to
be present at the crisis of his illness. He was considered convalescent, and
the author replacing his brother in attendance, he rallied for a time, but at
length quietly departed on the last day of February, at the good old age of
82 — amost esteemed citizen, and an honest man. His remains were interred
with those of his parents, in the family burying ground on the borders of
the beautiful Lake Chatauqua. A handsome monument was erected to Ms
memory by his sole offspring, Mrs. Merritt. It was designed and made by
Mr. Barron of St. Catharines, and was in pyramidal form, being composed
of a large piece of limestone, taken from the site of his early Canadian resi
dence on the slope of the hill near Thorold.
"Died, in Mayville, March 1st, Hon. Jedediah Prendergast M. D,, aged 82
yeais, a venerable, scientific, and interesting man, univers-ally beloved for hia
virtuSs, and admired for his talents. After completing his classical educa
tion in Duchess County, his native place, he studied physio and surgery and
became eminent in his profession. He delighted in the study of philosophy,
and his powerful mind enabled him to master every subject with ease. He
viewed the Deity with homasre and admiration, as the source of life and joy,
and Christianity as an emanation from Heaven, to bless the world.
" At the request of De Witt Clinton he wrote several articles on the geol
ogy of this part of the state, which that distinguished Governor published, aa
; containing much useful information to the public. Although too fond of study
and retirement to take much interest in party politics, he consented to be a
representative and Senator in this State, and discharged his duty with fidelity
and honor. For many years past he has retired from the busy world, enjoying
" otium cum dignitate" amnsi'^g himself in visiting his farms and devoting
most of his time to his favorite studies. His conversational powers were re
markable, and as he perfectly retained bis mental faculties, he delighted and
instructed his friends to the end of his long and happy life. His knowledge
was so practical and extensive that they felt themselves honored in his presence,
and that they were made wiser, better, and happier by his conversation. Na
ture however at last became exhausted, and although surrounded with all that
contributed to his enjoyment, he wished and prayed for rest, like a wearied
traveller. He died suddenly and easily as if falling asleep, with his eyes rest
ing on the glories of immortality. His friends and acquaintances deeply feel
their loss, and will always remember him as one of Nature's Nobleman. " —
From Westfield Messenger.
The subject of the above obituary was well known to many of our old resi
dents, having practised in this neighborhood prior to the war. He left but
one child, the wife of our subject.
The letters received from Mr. Crampton, the minister at Washington,
wd Mr. Hunt, stating that he would be happy to have further commuM-
oations with him on the subject of Reciprocity.

332
He then left for Washington, where he arrived in the end of April, and
remained there on business connected with the treaty until the middle of
May. Mr. Merritt's method of conducting the negotiations while at Washing-
toa is given in the following extracts and letters : —
"Washington, United States, May, 1848.
" Lord Grey, Col. Secy. &c, &c,
" My Lord, —
" The first object to which I beg to call your attention is the bill now
submitted ts the House of Representatives, a copy of which has been en-
•losed by the latest steamer to Lord Palmerston, and will of course be
brought under your notice. The only remedy or means to hasten the period
for the inhabitants of Canada to realize the advantages of this bill is to
authorize the Governor General of the Canadian Legislature to sanction it
at once, without the delay of sending to England, for which you will your
self receive an application, through the proper channel. I take this to be
* matter of course, as the Canadian Legislature addressed the Government
to negotiate for an equalization of duties, and they authorizing the nego
tiation, the principal therefore is sanctioned.
" The second measure relates to the repeal of the Navy laws. I beg to
enclose a copy of a letter addressed to Lord Elgin. The remedy is simply
to secure in any treaty with the United States the right of coasting for
British and Canadian vessels on the American coast. And the third is the
removal of all import duties.
" 1 have the honor to be, my Lord,
" With very high consideration, your obedient servant,
" WM. HAMILTON MERRITT."
(Memo, of Reciprocity Bill.)
" 1st.— Address, 12th May, 1846.
" 2nd. — Instruction from Lord Aberdeen, June 18th.
" 3rd. — In December of same year the application was made — and ihev*
¦mded. " 4th. — In 1847 Reciprocity resolutions were introducod, effect produced.
"5th. — The petition to Congress in 1848.
" 6tli. — BUI introduced similar to this in April.
" 7th. — Apprehensions exist from recent discussions that it may not pass.
" 8th. — I cannot concur in that opinion.
" I placeonore reliance on the intelligence and justice of the members.
" The Government of Great Britain have removed the duty on their
{M-oduots. " The Provincial Government of Canada have reduced the duty on their
manufactures. " They are interested in our products. "Washington, 25th April, 1848.
(Confidential.)
"Sir, — The accompanying letters from Jacob Keefer and James R. Benson
IS., Messrs. Boomer and Ranney, engaged in milling, trade and shipping,
i» a correct representation of the existing public feeling in Upper Canada

333
among capitalists, -who feel the immediate effects of the existing restriction*
and it is a true indication of what must prevail amongst all classes in du»
course of time, if not removed, as certainly as causes will produce their
natural effects.
" This information is designed for the Home Government exclusively,
¦with a hope it may induce them to press the measure, without further Ios»
of time. Under no circumstances should the attention of the American
Government be directed to the striking advantages which they now possess
pohtically, by creating dissatisfaction in Canada from the inequality of prices
for although it is their true interest commercially to admit our producte
some may favor other views and entertain objections. My next communi
cation will be confined to reasons for inducing them to adopt the measure.
" I have the honour to be, sir,
" Your obedient servant,
" W. HAMILTON MERRITT."
" JohnF. Crampton, Esq."
"8th May. — Among the Congressional proceedings we have the pleasure of
noticing the introduction of a measure to the House, for a reciprocal free ad
mission of Canadian and American products of a certain class — a counterpart
to the resolution introduced to the Assembly in June of last year, by the
member for this county, but which was not adopted. We trust the Provin
cial Government, by corresponding with the British minister at Washington
is taking care that the measure be urged upon the authorities there. It is ono
of more vital importance to Canada, although but little noticed, than a redress
of all other grievances which the most discontented could enumerate. The
bill was read twice, and referred to a committee of the whole.
"July 6th. — Returned by Gravelly Biy. Directed Mr. Parker to sell no
lots until the navigation on the canal was opened.
" Duncan McFarland, Esq., is to send down a statement of the amount
paid Rolland Macdonald, and to settle steamboat Caroline account as soon as
his former clerk returns.
" Friday, 7th. —Visited Lockport, to see Lot Clarke, Esq. Had a long
interview, until near 10 o'clock. Returned ou Saturday, 8th. Met Mr.
Street. I was otherwise detained until night before reaching St. Catharines,
" Tuesday, llth. — Mr. Elliot proposes in case he assented to make a car
riage bridge : 1st, to have all accounts passed upon the principle of the Com
pany being liable to pay the entire outlay. 2nd, Mr. Elliot's estate to be
relieved from liability in case of his death. 3rd, The funds of bridge to be
applied for no other purpose, The capital on Canada side to be reduced to
$100,000. Whereupon I, as President of the Canada Company, submitted
the following letter : —
" Sir, — In reply to yours of the lOth inst., complaining that the Board
had not made provision to meet your liabilities, I have merely to refer you to
the following statement, which shews the Company have advanced $3,741 — .
statement as following :
" The language and spirit of your various letters preclude any further
reply. Having refused to furnish the Board with a detailed statement of the
cost of the bridge, to enable them to judge of its monthly progress. From the
high price paid for material ; the increased cost of work, neglect in its execu
tion, with the exorbitant demands made on the Board, they have with great
reluctance been compelled to withdraw the confidence they formerly reposed

334
ia you ; and in order to protect the interests of the shareholders, they feel it
their duty to use every means in their power to place the bridge in charge of
another Engineer.
" The Board thought it advisable to defer any action until after the next
meeting. The two Presidents are to attend the 1st Monday in August, at
the Cataract House, to examine the minutes, etc.
" Up to the 15th attended to my own private affairs. Wrote the In-
^lector General on subject of Canal. This evening's post brought the wel
come news of the passage of the Reciprocity Bill in the House of Represen
tatives. Sunday.— Heard Mr. Atkinson preach. All week engaged in
private affairs. Sunday, Jlr. Shankland officiated. 29th— Went to To
ronto to see Mr. Ridout. Mr. Atkinson did duty on Sunday.
" Monday, 31st. — Attended Suspension Bridge meeting. August 1st.
Returned. On the 4th made preparation for an excursion to Chicago.
Sunday — Heard the new organ, its first performance ; 31st verse of the
33rd Psalm chant. [ Here follows a prayer, couched in language similar to
what we have quoted before, not infrequent in these memoranda when
anytMng important or unusual occurred.] " Washington, July llth, 1848.
'¦ My Dear Sir, — I have just received a despatch from Lord Palmerston
acknowledging the receipt of my despatch of May last, which you will recol
lect I read to you recounting the steps we had taken to bring forward the
^ Equalization of Duties Bill'; and Lord Palmerston directs me, in compU-
ance with a request from Lord Grey, to whom he communicated my des
patch, to procure and transmit to his (Lord Palmerston' s) office, ' a copy of
' the evidence which W. H. Merritt is stated in your (my) despatch to have
' furnished to the Committee of Commerce in the Senate and House of Re-
' presentatives.' I did not, I find on referring to my despatch, say that
you had ' given evidence' and been formally examined by the Committees,
but only that ' the correct infoi-mation which your presence in Washington
' had enabled you to impart to those committees had gone far to^remove
' any apprehension which might have been felt in some quarters as to the
' effect of the proposed measure upon the markets of the Northern States of
the Union.'
"This information the colonial office I presume wish to obtain; but as I did
not understand that it was taken down by the committees or printed, I pre
sume I shall be enabled to procure it from them ; I have not yet enquired
of them, but intend to do so to-day. I write to you, however, at once, in
order that if the information you communicated to the committees was not
taken down in writing you may yourself be good enough to furnish me with
the substance of it.
" I have had frequent conversations on the subject of the the bill -with
Mr. Grinnell, Mr. Dix and Mr. W. Hunt, and the latter assured me that
the bill would be taken up and passed last week. Mr. Grinnell told me
the only symptom of opposition to it he had met with in any quarter was
from Mr. Bradbury, the Senator from Maine ; but that he hoped to get over
this — it related only to lumber. Would it not be better to throw the lum
ber overboard for the present rather than risk or delay the passage of the
bill f " Believe me, dear sir,
" Your's very sincerely,
' W. H. Merritt Esq., M. P, P." JOHN F, CRAMPTON."

335
House of Representatives, July 12, 1840.
" My Dear Sir,— The Canada Reciprocity Bill has just passed the
House, almost unanimously. There was a show, of opposition, but we
promptly put it do-wn. The Bill may pass the Senate in a day or two.
Consider it settled. I would send this by telegraph, but the difference is
«nly_ ai-day or two, and I presume you will see it announced in the Buffalo
papers as soon as a special despatch could reach you."
" (In great haste.)
" Believe me your's truly,
" W. HUNT."
" Hon. W. Hamilton Merritt."
The St. Catharines Journal extra July 15th, 6, P. M. says : —
" Reciprocity Bill.— -Wm. Hamilton Merritt, M. P. P. for the county
of Lincoln, has just received letters from the Hon. 'Washington Hunt, Chair
man ofthe Committee of Commerce, and the Hon. Joseph Grinnell, announc
ing its passing the House of Representatives on the 1 2th inst. * * sf;
Contemplate the effect which removing all existing lestrictions would
produce on the commerce and wealth of Canada.
" Situated on a direct line between Great Britain, where capital, manu
factures, and a dense population has been increasing for ages, and an inland
coast exceeding 4,000 miles above the Falls of Niagara, capable of contain-
iag a population of many millions, with a soil and climate producing the
fruits of the earth in great abundance, who will venture to predict the ex
tent of the exchanges between these two countries — the profit to be realized
by individuals — the revenue to be derived from tolls by the Government —
the number of emigrants passing through, or the prosperity and wealth cre
ated. " To ensure tMs trade, our Canals must be fimshed to admit the passage
of a vessel to or from Lake Erie to the Ocean, drawing at least nine feet
six inches of water, after which, from May until October the major part of
the commerce of the Western States will pass through this channel ; for the
remainder of the season the trade of Canada will seek Atlantic ports through
the United States, thus securing to the inhabitants of each all the natural
advantages that either could possess were they under the same Grovern-
ment, "We heartily congratulate the country on the passing of this Bill, and
trust that no delay will occur to retard or defeat the cheering prospect it
holds forth."
During the Summer he was busily occupied in connexion with the large
Suspension Bridge.
"Monday, August 7th. — Left home for Chicago, via Falls and Buffalo.
To Cleveland in 16 hours; to Detroit, then in steamer Sultana to Chicago.
Here he received a letter from Montreal, wMch induced him to retrace his
«teps, leaving the completion of the wheat purchases down the Illinois river
to the author, who had accompanied him thither.
In the Autumn he went for the first time to Chicago, which
was now fast becoming an important grain centre. His companion
from Detroit westward, besides the author was a Mr. Stinson from Hamilton.

336
On arriving in Chicago, Mr. Stinson attended several of the great land
sales of the school commissioners then going on in that town. He, being
without funds and wishing to speculate, requested our subject to introduce
him to the commissioners, which he did with pleasure. Mr. Stinson's spec
ulations on this occasion, as is well known, resulted very successfully, whilst
those of our subject were, owing to the high price of produce, the reverse.
At this time there were neither Telegraphs, Railroads, or Banks in the
State of Illinois, he travelled through the country in a buggy, and part
of the time on the river by steamer and the canal by boat.
Arriving at St. Catharines, the memo, continues : — " Friday, 8th, re
ceived a telegram to repair to Montreal. 9th — Arranged business, and
wrote answers to my letters. 10th — Heard an excellent sermon from Mr.
Atkinson on keeping the Sabbath day. Monday, llth — Drove down to
Niagara with sou Thomas ; crossed over in steamer Magnet, and arrived at
Kingston on the|12th, next day ; and left in Passport at 7. 13th — -Arrived
at Coteau, and Montreal at 10 o'clock.
" Wrote Ridout on subject of currency : Widmere on the subject of the
Western country. Thursday, 14th — Having been offered the situation of
President of the Council yesterday, took until this day to consider of it.
Having no knowledge of the duties, and no inclination to confine myself to
mere official routine, determined to decline it ; but Messrs. Lafontaine,
Sullivan and Baldwin assuring me it was a situation which would give me
the best opportunity of bringing my -views before the Govemment, and in
which I could render more essential service than having the immediate
charge of any single department, I addressed Mr. Lafontaine the following
letter : — " Montreal, Sept. 14th, 1848.
" Sir, — Your enquiry whether in case His Excellency offered me the
situation of President of the Council, I would accept it, was wholly unex
pected. However, after mature consideration, I have decided to accept it,
as you have bean in possession of the measures I have advocated, viz : the
creating of a perpetual fund from the proceeds of the public lands, for the
support of common schools, establishment of district libraries, kc, I con
sider it equivalent to accepting those mea.sures by the Government.
W. H. MERRITT."
"To Hon, Robert Baldwin."
After his return from the West, the coniinunication he received was
that his name was on the list of Ministers, in the capacity of President, of
the Council. He immediately left for Montreal, and after a long interview
wherein his ideas on the general policy of the country were agreed to. he
decided upon accepting the office, and immediately returned to his constitu
ency for re-election, which was appointed for October 6th, and in this case
he received the support of both parties, and retumed without opposition.
Previous to his departure for the seat of government, his constituents pre
sented him with a congratulatory address, to which he replied in fitting
terms, expressing unbounded hope in his country's future destiny. His
journey to the West had impressed him with the future prospects of those

337
boundless prairies which Were now rapidly coming under the control of matt.
With almost prophetic language, he professed they would see the time when
the productions of this vast country would severely tax the capacity of the
most extensive means of outlet to the seaboard for the rich and productive
crops of cereals and cattle, which the land would produce. Under the in
fluence of these ideas, he first thought of the scheme for transportation,
which he afterwards, when Minister of Public Works, proposed to the country.
We consider it advisable to notice the affairs that preceded at greater
length, so as to explain the cause of our subject's entering the government;
and when there, the patience and perseverance in which he directed the
affairs of the council during the peculiarly exciting period of our history.
Mr. Baldwin, imniediately at the conclusion of the election contest, sends
Mr. Merritt a party missile requiring his adherence, whether Mr. M.'s mea
sures were brought in or not. Our subject, in his reply, plainly tells Mr.
B. that no other plea than acts for the improvement of Canada, will keep
his adherence to Mr. B.
llth July, Mr. B. writes again, and appears anxious to engage Mr. M.,
by a commission in the University, which had the recommendation of a
liberal remuneration from the college funds.
Mr. M.'s absence to the West prevented his answering immediately,
and before his return a more responsible office was tenderejl.
The Montreal Herald, in a communication from Washington dated 18th
May, on the subject of Reciprocity in Congress : —
" Dear Sir, — I wrote you from N. Y,, which I left on Saturday last
and reached this city on Tuesday, where I found our friend Merritt, who
has been doing good service." (Closes all with "thanks to Merritt.")
An article in the Globe, 1st June, says : — " Should the bill pass, Mr.
Merritt will have earned the thanks of his Canadian fellow-countrymen."
The notices of this mission were not confined to Canadian papers, for the
circumstances of his being in Washington in a semi-diplomatic capacity was
noticed -in the United States papers as well.
Mr. Cameron writes, Montreal, June 9, 1848 : —
"Young, Uniack and Tobin have been here from Halifax, they are for
free trade— and if the Congress passes your Bill, it will be met here with
out delay; and it is now clear that the navigation law will be abolished."
Mr. Hincks writes from the capital to our subject, 27th July: —
" Messrs. Sullivan and Lafontaine have gone to Washington, and will, I
hope, arrange satisfactorily about bringing the new act into force. We shall
not shrink from the responsibility of an order in Council. The administra
tion has already done all that it could."
Extract from the Montreal Courier, August 3rd, 1848:—
" Two of the Executive Government are now out of town. Mr. Sullivan
and Lafontaine are at Washington, whither they have proceeded on some
business connected with our mercantile relations with the United States."

338 Hamilton, August 14, 1848.
" I am desired to assure you of the high sense the Board of Trade has of
^our great and valuable services in bringing -about the Reciprocity Act.
Every exertion must be made, by petition and otherwise, to ha,ve its pro
mulgation of the free navigation of the St. Lawrence pass in Britain."
" "J. S. BROADGAST."
The St. Catharines Journal says : —
" The U. S. Congress has risen without passing the Reciprocity Bill,
md which only required its final reading in the Senate,"
The Toronto Colonist, Aug. 31, 1848, says:— " We have had several
ieputations to Washington ; the last was that of the Provincial Secretary,
ind Mr. Lafontaine.
" The Govemment at Washington is remarkably accessable, but it is
already agreed on there, that the price which Canada shall pay for the
United States market, will be taken in instalments, amounting in the
iggregate to the ultimate incorporation with the States under one Federal
GfOvemment. This is no secret, it is perfectly understood on both sides.
" Free Trade, it will be seen, is doing its work. The urgency of Lord
Elgin's language is portentious ; it is full of significance ; and now that the
[Navigation Laws are not to be repealed this session, we may expect, on the
part of the annexers and the Montreal free traders, something in the shape
ff physical force demonstrations. This is quite in unison with the progress
af the age, and by no means unfashionable at the present moment, in more
places than Canada."
Continuation of remarks from the press, on the failure of the Reciprocity
Treaty, and appointment of our subject to the office of President of the
Council : —
In Sept. the Spectator says : — " We failed to secure the measure by our
anxiety to effect it. We wonder how the only way in which a free com
merce in the natural productions common to both countries has been sought,
was by negotiation in Washington, commenced by 'Mr. Pakenham and
continued by Mr. Crampton. It did not appear by the debates in the
Imperial Parliament on the free trade measures, nor by those in the Pro
vincial Parliament, on the present Customs bill, that any member thought
of them as inducements for the Americans, admitting our products duty free,
" Mr. Merritt's presence in the Executive Council, is no doubt regarded
as an aquisition by his colleagues, and he may yet prove to be the chief of
the party.
" He goes into office under the greatest responsibility, -because of the
large expectations which are entertained from him ; his advent to office is
hailed by his constituents and admirers as a pledge that those measures ad
vocated by him, and now approved of by so many, are about to be acted on
by the Government.
" The ' word of promise' must not be kept to the ear, and broken to the
hope. The time has fully come, when the great interests of this colony
must not any longer be sacrificed, either to party prejudice, or party interest.
Our present constitution gives us the power to originate, and legislate, on
those gi-eat measures which are now agitated among us, and the people look
for, and expect, that the present Government will be true to their principles
and declarations of pre-eminent love of Canada."

339
The Journal says : —
" The Spectator will please hold the gentleman he mentions clear of any
responsibility for what appears in these columns, except over his own
signature- — we have not seen him for about two months."
"Reward op merit. — The appointment of the Hon. W. H, Merritt to the
Presidency of the Council, is emphatically ' the reward of merit.' All
parties must therefore concur in the appointment, however irreconcilable it
may appear to some persons, that in rewarding merit the condition should
be, that Mr. W. H. Merritt should be necessitated to sit at the same Board as
his quondam, foul and unscrupulous assailant, Francis Hincks. But we shall
indeed wonder, if Mr. Merritt does not manage, in the position he has
attained, to make Ms own out of Mr. Hincks, and every other member of
the Council. There are queer things ahead. — Colonist.
One of the causes of the call of our subject to the Government, was
a consciousness in the dispensing power, whether that may be in England
or here, that the people were dissatisfied with the neglect of their interest
— one of these the neglect to repeal the Navigation Law. A meeting in Mont
real is noticed in the Journal, on June 22nd.
The speeches were very interesting, and fully exemplified the benefits
which the pro-vince may derive from her vast canals — not only from the
busmess that will be furnished throughout the length of the province, but
from the fact that such a revenue would arise from tolls as " woiTld pay the
expense of the Pro-vincial Government, and leave a considerable balance.
The duties could then be entirely abolished, and the Custom House being
done away with, goods for consumption, or for wearing could be biought in
free from any tax. This is a consummation for which our people cannot but
earnestly -wish; a freedom of export duties — the trouble and annoyance arising
from their collection, and that great temptation to crime in the shape of
false invoices, swearing, and smuggling. We are thankful to Mr. Glass
for the -statement above, and believe it will not much longer be regarded as
one of Mr. Merritt's " crotches."
The following is the oath of secrecy taken by members of the Govem
ment ; and as there is no disposition to impair the Queen's authority, for
the prosperity of her Canadian subjects, we feel no hesitation in continuing
the extracts from Mr. Merritt's private journal and correspondence, although
some of the items may be construed into disclosures of secrets of State.
" The Oath of the Members of the Council : — I, , will serve
Her Majesty truly and faithfully in the place of Her Council in this Her
Majesty's Province of Canada ; I will keep close and secret all such matters
as shall be treated, debated, and resolved on, in Executive Council, with
out publishing or disclosing the same or any part thereof, by word, writing,
or any otherwise, to any person out of the same Council, but to such only
as be of the Council ; and yet if any matter so propounded, treated and de
bated in any such Executive Council, shall touch any particular person,
sworn of the same Council, upon any such matter as shall in anywise con
cern his loyalty and fidelity to the Queen's Majesty, I will in no wise open

340
the same to him, but keep it secret, as I would from any person, until the
Queen's Majesty's, pleasure be known in that behalf I will, in all things, to
be moved, treated and debated in any such Executive Council, faithfully,
honestly, and truly declare my mind and opinion to the honor and benefit
of the Queen's Majesty, and the good of Her subjects without partiality or
exception of persons, in no wise forbearing so to do from any manner of re
spect, favour, love, need, displeasure, or dread of any person or persons
whatsoever. In general I will be vigilant, diligent and circumspect in all
my doings, touching the Queen's Majesty's affairs ; all which matters and
things I will faithfully observe and keep, as a good Councillor ought to do,
to the utmost of my power, will, and discretion. — So help me God."
" Was sworn in on the 15th of September, returned to St. Catharines,
and as soon as the writs could be made out, a new election took place.
Having resigned as member, was re-elected on the 6tb October, left St. Cath
arines on the llth, Wednesday, and arrived in Montreal on Saturday morn
ing, the 14th inst.
" Took lodgings at Donegana's, attended Council to observe the routine,
before assuming the duty. Addressed a letter to the Commissioner of Public
Works, a copy of which is in my private letter-book, drawing their attention
to certain parts of the Erie Canal reports, and presented them with a full
set of canal documents, expressing a hope it would be useful in their forth
coming report. 2nd, Refei-red the letter of Francis Hall, Esq. 3rd, And
transferred the letter of Mr. Scott, of the Board of Works department, to
the Provincial Secretary. 4th, Private letters from J. Prince, M. P. for
Sandwich. " Monday, 16th October, 1848. This day assumed the duties of my
office as the President of the Committee of the Executive Council of the
Province of Canada, not President of the Council, as generally supposed,
inasmuch as on the final passage of a measure the Governor presides.
" Tuesday, 17th, — Examined the various documents with Mr. Joseph to
submit to the Council on the morrow, also saw applications with Mr. Lee.
Devoted the remainder of the day until half past 5 in preparing a com
mercial statement.
" Wednesday, 18th, — The Council assembled at half past ten, disposed
of the business submitted for their consideration, which were presented for
the examination of His Excellency who referred to the Board for any infor
mation on any given point.
" Thursday, 19th, — Devoted this day to the preparation of the comment
and statement on land. Wrote Crampton and Yates to send the informa
tion sought for respecting customs, and Dix respecting Reciprocal Bill,
Dunscombe for quantity and amount of imports.
" Friday, 20th, — Examined the various documents to be presented to
the Council on the morrow, and devoted the few moments to be spared
after seeing all applicants to the Government, to the preparation of my report.
" Saturday, 21st, — Spent this day in council, after examining Doctor
Ryerson 's bill on the amendment of the Common School Act, very little
done, except the ordinary routine business, on which I oontemplate suggest
ing an improvement, requiring each department to make out their own
reports. Received Thos. R. Merritt's note from Mr. McNought."

341
Our subject was not long discovering, after entering into the Council,
whose operations were heretofore only judged by their result and those too
frequently chronicled nil., that Imperial subjects were given for the dis
cussion of the Council, and until they][were disposed of, those devoted to
Colonial affairs were left in abeyance, Mr. Merritt persevered in the hope
that something could be made out of themjand though protection had been
withdrawn by the upturning of the colonial policy ; yet that something
for Canada could be gained out of an extended emigration and the loan of
an Imperial credit. With this view, with how* much patience, if not at the
entire exhaustion of their own, our readers will see, he waded through
Minister Sullivan's memorial for the transplanting of the famishing Irish to
farms in Canada, or the scheme for supporting pensioners here, of a similar
design. " B. B. Sullivan's letter of the 10th June last, to the Right Rev. the
Catholic Lord Bishop, in a reply to a memorial which I have not
seen, develops a scheme for the settlement and disposal of public lands,
which is. First, — To make a free grant of 50 acres to every actual settler
(No. 3) and the right to occupy 150 acres adjoining on payment of 4s per
acre in land scrip, obtain a deed on clearing 16 acres of the 50, and 15
acres and payment of the 150 (in No 10,) To make a lot of 200, which if
scrip is 50 per ct. discount, will reduce the land to 2s. per acre, or £15.
" The Govemment on their part, to place an agent in the settlement,
to place each settler on his lot; whether his passage is paid, and fumished
with pro-vision does not appear.
" To clear a road to this settlement, to lay out leading roads through it,
and to employ a surveyor to lay out side-lines (see 4, 5, 8.) No estimate is
made of the expenses of surveying — of clearing those roads — of maintaining
an agent — of finding those emigrants — of paying their conveyance to the
land — of maintaining roads, bridges &c., after being made.
" No. 11 — Does not regard Crown Lands as sources of revenue — still —
"No. 12 — Recognizes that principle.
" No. 13 — Points out the real end which has existed in giving large
tracts of land to individuals, at the same time points out the true remedy to
counteract its injurious effects — taxation.
" No. 14 — Points out the fact that real obstacles to settlement has here
tofore existed, but does not assign the true cause, which is the neglect, mis
management and interference of Government since war of 1812.
" No. 15  Alludes to £20,000 which the Provincial Government
thought it right to contribute to the expenses of emigration. How, when
or where this grant was made does not appear.
" The British Possessions Act, 2nd clause, 809 Vict., Cap. 93, relates
to free ports, and foreign vessels not applicable to passing vessels.
" Sunday, 22nd, — Attended Trinity Church, heard an extemporaneous
sermon from Rev'd Mr. Campbell, not well arranged. Wrote Mrs. Merritt,
J., W. H., and T.
No apology is, we are sure, required for tbe insertion of the following
epistle, as it details better than aught else the ultimate pursuits of our subject:

342 " 22nd October, 1848.
" My Dear Catherine : — Since writing- you last Sunday I met Gen.
Evans go'iig into church ; he was a Brigadier in 1812, whom I served
with in that ca.nipaign, and I have not seen hirn since — he recognized and
stopped me in the street. 1 have met with another old friend ; he com
manded a vessel called the Goree ; he afterwards came out as Colonial
Governor's Secretary. He will make an inspection tour through Canada,
when he will call on you ; these are all I have seen, I have not paid a
single visit, and expect not to for a month.
" I am bent on operating great changes, and until they are matured by
me and discussed by the Council, and decided on by the Govemor, I must
be entirely occupied by them. The situation of this Province is discouraging.
" There is no inducement for my remaining a single day longer than to
accomplish the object I have in view.
On the 29tli he says, " I rise at 6, or as soon as I can get a fire ; after
breakfast take a short walk ; go to my duty at half-past nine, and remain
till 5, or after ; take a short walk and dine at 6 ; at 7 again commence, and
continue till 10, or 11. It will take me at least 10 days to prepare the
measures I have on hand.
" A great degi-ee of responsibility is expected from William H. by the
mercantile and agricultural interest.
"I have plenty of assistance to copy, but the arrangement devolves
wholly on myself. Two days are taken up in council, .passing the time in
seeing people arid talking over their business, so that the night is the only
time left for reflection.
" Monday, 23rd, — Answered several letters, (see letter book,) omitted
sending J. Decon .$4 ; ever compiling measures and tables in which I fiud
great difficulty.
" Tuesday, 24th, — Wrote Creighton on subject of Hydraulic Concern,
examining tables.
" Wednesday, 25th, — Council day for a number of cases (see the scroll
book.) The entire day occupied, and only from 7 to 10 at night, for com
piling tables,
" Thursday, 26th, — Made progress in tables, Mr, Hensleigh in the quan
tity of imports, Begly commenced the entire expenditure under Board of
Works, in amounts paid before the Union for unproductive property.
" Friday, 27th, — Examined the various documents relating to the meas
ures under consideration, during this day.
" Saturday, 28th, — Council day, very little business transacted, occupied
the entire day.
" Sunday, 29th, — Attended Methodist chapel — a dull day.
" Monday, 30th, — Wrote Notman respecting Darling's le-tters. Remain
der of the day preparing tables.
" Tuesday, 31st, — Wrote Creighton aud Eston, and devoted remainder
of tbe day in preparing and arranging my programme.
"Wednesday, 1st Nov., — Fete obligates — no Council — a full day's work.
" Thursday, 2nd, — Preparing- tables as a reference.
" Friday, 3rd, — Succeeded this day in closing up one measure relating
to the public lands, and enclosed it to His Excellency for his perusal.
" Saturday, 4th, — A Council was summoned this day, in consequence of
a committal and sentence of death for rape, for which the man was sentenced

343
14 years in Penitentiary ; I think the punishment excessive, but he may
be pardoned ere this term has expired.
" Sunday, 5th, — Rainy day — attended Trinity.
" Monday, 6th, — Wrote several letters, family, &c. Continue compiling
measures and tables.
"Tuesday, 7th, — Same employment from 9 until 10 or 11 at night, ex
cept 1 hour dinner.
" Wednesday, 8th, — Council, very little business.
"Thursday, 9th, — Examined the Blue Book this day, and read Major
Robinson's report on the Halifax and Quebec railway, a well written docu
ment. " Friday, 10th, — Yesterday finished the entire subject on hand.
" Programme containing a series of tables, shewing the present state of
the Provincial finances, with explanatory remarks.
" 2 refers to the resources of the Province and the reinedy.
"A. No. 3. — Memoir on Agriculture, Commerce and Manufacture with
a Bill, (fee, kc, kc.
"B. No. 4. — Debt on finance with Bill, kc, kc, kc.
" C. No. 5. — On sale and application of the Public Lands, with Bill, &c.
Those were first sent in for the examination of His Excellency, on their
return, will provide copies.
" Examined the opinion of the Committee of Customs, on report of the
4th September, 1846, which states, that riding officers were recommended
on the Welland Canal to prevent smuggling, though it is against the general
policy of the empire to admit American vessels to pass the St, Lawrence,
" In the letter to the Lords of the Committee of Privy Council for Trade,
to James Stephen, Esq., llth March, '47, is the following remark : —
" Smuggling into Canada can only be prevented by the adoption of a
moderate scale of Customs duties, and not by increased official supervision ;
think smuggling here common into the U. S., from the moderate tariff in
force in Canada. " L. LEFEVRE."
"Friday, 10th November, 1848, — The despatch of Lord Grey, March
19th, '47, says : — " Permission may be granted to American vessels as a
favor, not as a right.
" Saturday, llth, — Schooner Z^%, drawing 5 feet 6 inches, arrived, first
vessel from Lake Erie, on her way to Europe. Received box from home,
sent in bill for creating sinking fund, which finishes the measures relating
to Commerce, Finance and Public Lands.
" Mr. Tocld is furnishing the cost of Public Works prior to the union,
on such works as will pay in Upper and in Lower Canada. The balance
is the real debt of the respective provinces, which must be added to the like
expenditure since the union. Then, make a statement of the relative
amount of duties collected in each country since the union.
" Next, shew the expenses in collection and net amounts since the union.
"Sunday, 1 2th,— Attended Trinity.
" 13th and 14th,— Compiling Tables.
" Wednesday, and part of yesterday, — Council.
" 16th, 17th, 18th, — Devoted the entire time in the examination of
revenue to create a sinking fund.
"Sunday, 19th,— Attended Trinity.
"20th, 21st, 22nd,— Meeting of Council. 23rd, 24th, 25th, — Another

344
week has passed over. On Friday my measures were discussed and post
poned until Monday next ; have been ready for a week past ; nothing mate
rial occurred during the week; ordinary routine of business of little moment.
"Monday, 27th, — Met this day, had a long discussion, not altogether
satisfactory; establishing a sinking fund, and appropriating the proceeds of
the |)ublic lands for creating a fund for common schools has been agreed to,
but the future loan is in abeyance.
" Tuesday, 28tb, — Wrote several letters in reply.
" Wednesday, 29th, — Council all day on various subjects of little worth.
" Thursday. 30th, — Had a long conference with Inspector General, no
thing determined.
"Friday, 1st December, — Council on Wright's application for purchase
of his slides at the Chaudiere, Bytown.
" Saturday, 2nd, — Saw Mr. Baldwin, who concurs with principle of
clause limiting the executive to the expenditure of a certain amount.
" On Friday, held a long conference with His Excellency, who requires
a memorandum of, or rather statement, shewing —
" 1st, — Cost or amount yet required to finish the St. Lawrence and Wel
land Canals.
" 2nd, — The amount of annual expenses thereon.
" 3rd, — Amount of annual repairing.
" 4th, — Estimate of the tolls, to shew the probable net amount to create
a sinking fund, for which a statement must be Drdered from Keefer, who in
the meantime will prepare the same.
"Wrote Dix and Thomas, and examined the statement of expense of
Trinity House, and salaries paid throughout the province preparing by Todd.
Very little progress.
" 3rd, Sunday, — Attended Trinity. 4th, Monday.
" 5th, Tuesday, — Read letter from the Hon. J. A. Dix, recommending
my going to Washington, to afford explanations. Gov. in favour of the
measure, but the Council did not appear willing to dispense with my services.
"6th, Wednesday, — Subject discussed among others.
" Thursday, 7th, — Wrote Joseph Grinnell and enclosed printed copy of
Navigation Act, Lord Grey's reply to Sir E, Head, N. B., refusing the
prayer of petition to leave the present Navigation Laws as they stand ;
and the report of the Montreal Board of Trade, recommending protection."
This year, which was succeeded by the burning of the Parliament House
by a mob, the establishment of a political league, closing by the annexa
tion manifesto, was complicated by the opposing views on the interests of
the country taken by the press. The following leader from the Journal,
which had been considered heretofore as at least according with Mr. Mer
ritt's views, censuring the resolutions of "the Montreal meeting, uses argu
ments in direct opposition to the political principles of our subject. While
opposing the Montreal rioters, professed the prosperity of Canadians alone to
be the object of our legislation.
Journal continued :
" A proposition to the British Government in the shape of a memorial to
the Queen to tax the poor of England 6s. a barrel on flour, for the sake of
this colony. So this proposition is the only thing to save this colony to

345
England ; this is the sheet anchor, to keep us in connection with the Mother
Country. If the Mother will not consent to starve some thousands of her
children at home, to enrich a few hundred at a distance, the latter wUl rebel."
" Examined a memorandum of the Hon. B. B, Sullivan, on Col. Tullock's
plan for the formation of a corps of military labourers in the colonies, for
the purpose of considering how far that scheme could apply to Canada.
After a few observations, stating : —
" That the roads in the settled part of Canada are not beyond the ability
of the people to make.
" That railroads in the U. S. are constructed with capital from their
cities. " 1st, — That their protective system has accumulated that capital.
"That no part of it seeks investment in Canada.
"That capital made in Canada for profits on trade, is spent in England
by the merchants who realized it.
" That the wheat fly in 1830 was one cause of depression, which is now
removed. " 2nd, — That the tariff is high in the United States and low in Canada.
" 3rd, — That direct taxation for the support of the State Govemment
are comparatively high in the U. S.
" That the whole direct tax in Canada is applicable to internal improve
ment, (fee, (fee, (fee.
" Friday, 8th, — Mr. Sullivan's memo, continued.
" My deductions from the foregoing facts are as follows : —
" 1st, — There is an absence of capital in private hands, applicable to en
terprises involving large expenditure.
" 2nd, — There is good reason why this province should by means of its
large disposable public revenue, have endeavoured to compensate foi- the
want of capital in private hands.
" 3rd, — Money expended by the Legislature in the way of investment,
is not expended, with the close and sole view to immediate profitable return.
always found in private investments.
" 4th, — The money expended has been of vast general benefit to the
present condition and future prospects of the country.
" 5th, — The money expended has not produced a return of money to the
public chest, and the outlay has been, and is likely to be for a considerable
period^ a burden upon the public revenue.
" Gth, — The public revenue is able without such return to meet the inte
rest upon the public debt, and in turn to pay the principle.
" 7th, — 'This can be done without any serious burden upon the people,
and upon a scale of duties very low in comparison with those of the Uniteel
States, with which country the best comparison can be made.
" 8th, — The income from the Public Works, notwithstanding that it has
been injuriously affected by the depression in commercial affairs, caused by
the change in the commercial policy of England, is still on the increase; the
amount of revenue is also necessarily increasing with the population, and
as the province never has been in the receipt of large income from the pub
lic works, and as the debt was incurred upon the provision of other
means of payment, even the indefinite postponement of profitable returns
to the treasury from the public works, cannot produce additional embarras-
ment.

346
" 9th, — If the anticipation of those who are the best judges of the trada
in Canada, should be even in part realized, the public works will, by these
, returns, place the province in a state of great flnancial prosperity.
" 10th, — But the time has not yet come, and on the contrary, the Gov
ernment is much perplexed to find the capital necessary for the completion
of the works in progress, and it is impossible to proceed without borrowing
on some terms or other.
" llth, — The amount required to be borrowed could with absolute safe
ty be added to the public debt, but it would not aid in any scheme for the
promotion of emigration.
" Recommends a loan to be effected on the credit of the public revenue,
on the condition that the municipal councils -will impose a direct tax to pay
the interest in case the public works prove insufficient ; the other recom
mendations are all contingent.
" This document is well expressed as all Mr. Sullivan's views are, but
it is founded on the most erroneous principles, or data,--a. mistaken assump
tion of opinion for facts, viz. :
" 1. That the protective system in the U. S. has accumulated capital in
the cities, when it is notorious this capital has been acquired by commerce.
" 2. That taxes are higher in the United States than in Canada. A
most erroneous opinion, and calculated to mislead both the Home and Pro
vincial Governments. Blue Book says we have no direct taxes in Canada.
" No. 7, page 19, Same error, that no part of the capital made in the
U. S. is invested in Canada, and that capital formerly made here was spent
in England (although not of late years) is true, but the true cause why Ca
nada has not been a far more prosperous country is not assigned.
"Deduction No. 2, p. 18. If fairly interpretecl would give the true reason.
"The revenue from imports from 1841 to 1847 averaged £331,388 : this
would command at 6 percent, interest, a capital of £5,523,133. Had this
capital been expended in public works, it would have produced individua
capital; that it has not been, is the fault of the Government and not of the
people. "The remedy suggested is employing capital, by the district councils.
" This document was evidently written in haste,
" The public works in Canada are not equal in amount of expenditure
to N. Y.
" Mr. Hincks follows with a memo, somewhat siniilar,ex.cpt in the plan
proposed for promoting emigration, which is more tangible, as it proposes
borrowing money.
" It may fairly be said that the province has redeemed a debt due for
land claims of £229,000.
" A singular infatuation exists on those subjects.
" Although the duty on imports are higher in Canada than in the Uni
ted States — Although the local taxes are higher in Upper Canada than in
New York — And although they here expended over $30,000,000 in public ,
works, double the amount of Canada.
" They persist, although we have revenues from land and revenues from
customs, which they do not possess, to seek for some other cause to account
for our backwardness and our depression.
" Saturday, 9th, Sunday, 10th, — Rain.
" Monday llth,— Amend. License Fund, 9th Vict, Cap. 65, passed 1846,

347
which appropriates to the Toronto General Hospital, Kingston Hospital,
Toronto House of Industry, Kingston Indigent Sick, and the Upper Canada
Lunatic Asylum, the Marriage Service Fund. Except the last, those ap
propriations are partial and unjust.
" Mr. Wm. Hall, Collector of Customs suggests : —
"That a clause should be inserted in the Customs Act, to ascertain the
value of imports and exports. That the value of all articles for which a
clearance is required should be made on oath, as well as imports.
" That every declaration should be made by the principal and not his
clerk, and that goods for undervalue may be forfeited, and that all appraise
ments should take place at the ports first entered.
" That the principle object of combining the advalorum-duty, with the
specific on certain articles, is to obtain the value, which may be effected by
the other mode.
" He has reported already on the reduction of certain offices of Customs,
and would approve of one to a district with surveyors at different ports.
" Another feature in combining the 5 per ct, advalorum as on tea, is the
additional revenue, and check as to value.
" The memo, on the subject of the Halifax and Quebec railroad proposes
increasing the duty on our timber from Is. to 7s. 6d. per load, assuming that
the existing duty on foreign timber will be withdrawn. This is an unusual
and extraordinary proposition, coming from us.
"Tuesday, 12th, Wednesday, 13th, Thur.sday, 14th, Friday, 15th,—
Examining accounts kc. Administration of justice in U, C, under 1st Wm,
4th, Cap. 13, passed in 1831, amounted to £6,500. This was called the
everlasting Salary Bill.
Under 7th Wm. 4th, cap. 2,1837, £2,500 more ; in 1839, $3,000 more;
in 1840, the expenditure increased for administration of justice £19,000 ;
after which the Union Act was introduced, since which it has increased to
upwards of £50,000.
"16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, — The Council postponed the considera
tion of Keefer's report until Saturday, with a seeming disinclination to en
ter into it without first obtaining money.
" 21st, 22nd, — Entered into the consideration of emigration, and will
not recommend chartering any boats, or conveying passengers.
" Saturday, 23rd,— Sitting from 7 to 10.
" Sunday, — Cold — unwell.
" Monday, 25th,— Christmas, dined with Keefer.
" Tuesday, 26th, — Sat at night reviewing Hincks' plan of finance,
" The plan proposed by the Inspector General for borrowing money in
England is : —
"1st,  To involve no expense to the British Government for emigration.
" 2nd,  To enable Municipal Councils to borrow and to impose taxes
for local objects.
" 3i.d  To make loans from English capitalists, or the British Govern
ment for larger works.
" 4th,  To pay the interest and repay the principle by a specific appro
priation of the proceeds of the Crown Lands or School Fund.
.( 5th  To borrow £1,500,000 at 4 per ct. on the credit of the Imperial
Government, and loan it at 6 per ct. The difference of £30,000 to be xe-
pended in promoting emigration, or colonization.

348
" This scheme will defeat the object I had in view most effectually, and
will never be carried into operation.
"The last sitting of the Committee of the Executive Council on Saturday,
December 30th, 1848.
" The most important measure was decided upon, that has ever occu
pied their attention, or that of any preceding Council, since the discovery
of Canada, viz. :
" The land claims are to be cancelled in one year, all public lands to be
appropriated, and the proceeds applied for the creation of a Common School
fund, until the sum reached £1,000,000, and 1,000,000 of acres of the
best land in Huron tract, or elsewhere to be reserved for this express object,
(not to be exchanged for scrip.) Thus a fund will be provided for educa
ting the efttire population of Canada, greater than any other Government
in proportion to its population, possesses the beneficial effects of which few
can realize.
" If possible, limit the claims, hereafter to be allowed, and name a spe
cial commission to investigate them, of which I should like to be the chair
man." The transactions of the Council being secret, we are made aware of their -
particular business, but presume that in consequence of the many measures
requiring attention, that they were fully employed. Our subject remamed
in Montreal during the Winter. This year had been a remarkable one, dis
tinguished particularly so in Europe; beginning with the Revolution in
France, the tide of trouble spread nearly over all Europe. The Pope was
compelled to fly from Rome ; Austria was in a ferment on account of Hun
gary, which was brought to our notice by the appearance on this continent
of Louis Kossuth, who by his eloquence aroused almost universal sympathy.
Prussia was disturbed with internal disorder. The wave of dissention had
reached Britain, Ireland had its little uprising, and it required the energies
of Lord Palmerston to keep the trouble always within bounds. In Canada,
the effects were felt in the shape of a large emigration, and the people here
were stimulated to undertake many reforms. On the 14th December the
British Minister signed the postal arrangement with the United States,
which was the means of greatly reducing the postal rates to Europe.

1 849.
In January, Mr. Merritt writes : — " We have been busily engaged in
the Council, maturing measures of importance during the holidays ; dined
with His Excellency, met with the witty and talented Lord Mark Kerr,
Colonel Prince, Mr. Egerton and others."
Parliament opened on the 18th January. The speech, which should
contain a synopsis of the great preparations, was looked for anxiously; and
we have reason to think that the presence of our subject in the Ministry
was viewed with satisfaction, as it was felt that he represented views, con-

349
sonant with the national policy of Canada. The measures enunciated in
the Governor's speech were — A general amnesty to political offenders; the
assimilation of the laws of both Provinces ; Regulation of the Municipalities;
University Reform ; Intercolonial Railway and completion of St. Lawrence
Canals ; a Sinking Fund ; the balance of the Crown Lands to form a fund
for educational purposes.
The following was the termination of His Excellency's speech ; and that
the question of Reform we have seen so laboriously pressed upon their atten
tion, did not occupy the first place in the address, caused something akin to
despair appeared to settle on the capital. This, connected with the temporiz
ing measures pursued by the former Government in favour of the avowed
enemies of the British rule, brought on the unlawful attack that deprived the
Parliament of their House, the country of its archives, and the chief commer
cial city from being hereafter the capital of Canada.
" Governor's Speech : — I shall not fail to make any exertions, which
the interests of the public wealth will permit, to reduce the expenditure of
the Emigration Department to the scale of the years preceding 1847, when
a passenger tax, considerably less onerous than the one now levied, with
the occasional addition of a small grant from the public treasury, sufficed
to cover it.
" I would further recommend for your consideration, the expediency of
selling a part of the public domain, in order that the revenue derived from
the sales thereof, may form a fund, the interest of which shall be applied
for the supjiort of Common Schools. It may probably be deemed advisable
to authorize the Government to invest the capital arising from this source,
either in the stocks of the Province, or in that of some of the provincial
railways — the construction of which has been sanctioned by Parliament.
" In the possession of a revenue derived from so manj' independent
sources, and exempt from numerous charges that weigh ^heavily on the
resources of other communities, Canada enjoys great and singular advantages."
We insert an incident immediately after the opening of the House, of the
great Lower Canada Reformer, who had at last consented to represent one of
the constituencies by whom he had been elected, in the Halls of Legislation.
" January 22nd. — In the debate on His Excellency's speech, Hon. L. J.
Papineau moved in amendment, that the consideration of the speech should be
debated in the whole House in order that perfect liberty iu discussion might be
allowed. The amendment was only supported by five members.
In February, our subject urged before a committee of the House, his
Reciprocity measure, which being an Imperial one, was outside the provincial
administration. Feb. 3rd, — The House was resolved into a committee of the whole, upon
Mr. Merritt's Reciprocity resolution and was ushered in by a speech. Among
the speakers in its favour was Mr. Papineau. It was opposed by Mr. Smith
of Frontenac, Devignon, and Lawrine. The other speakers in the opposition
in its new departure of extreme partyship, are summarized in the Journal of
Feb. 8.

350
" Will Sherwood, the Hotspur of his party, or the gallant Sir Allan, or
the ' fine old English Gentleman' or any of the rest of these modern Rip-van-
Winkles, undertake to convince the farming population of Canada West, that
their conclusion is not the best ? Yes they will ; any thing in order to obtain
the loaves and fishes. They have succeeded so well in bamboozling the worthy
lieges of Canada so long, and so profitably for themselves, that they don't de
spair of succeeding, even in this plan. As to the proposition of appearing
before England in the character of a pauper, and requesting her to pay our
debts, it is a miserable subterfuge, and would be assuming a position in the
eyes of the nations, not at all creditable to ourselves. England has a right
to every farthing of money she has advanced to promote and complete oirr pub
lic works ; forasmuch as she did not promise to always tax the food of the poor,
in order for us to pay our debts.
" There are measures now before the House, of vast importance to the
people ; and we trust that the Ministry will shew their determination to im
prove our circumstances, by a fearless legislation on these questions.
" As to Sir Allan's insinuation, respecting the necessity of appealing to the
people before the bill to extend the representation be legislated on, it is a mere
ruse, and only an attempt to throw dust in the eyes ofthe constituents, hop
ing- in the mean time that the chapter of accidents would do more for his party
than they are likely to obtain in a fair fought field. If this question was one
infringing on the rights and privileges of the people, then indeed would it be
the duty of the Administration to appeal to the people ; but when it proposes
to extend the rights and enlarge the powers of the people, in depriving no
class of any rights previously possessed, why appeal?"
Although all the members of our Government and a majority in
the House were in favour of it, it ended in the measure being carried only
after a long and tedious diplomatic debate between the two Governments,
and was passed through the House on the 6th March ; also Mr. M.'s measure
for facilitating trade on the St. Lawrence, by means of tugs — the Board of
Works ordering three steamers to be built immediately for this purpose.
W. H. Merritt, Jr., writes to his brother, in rather a humorous style :
" Montreal, Feb'y 4th, 1849.
" Dear Tom, — The Governor (not the general one) directs me to enclose
you the accompanying letter from Mr. Rigney of New York, to afford you
some enlightenment on the humorous subject of freights. I shall have some
thing to do here for a fortnight at least. The Governor is really too busy
to answer half his letters, and I am undertaking to bring up arrears.
" It is snowing in fine style at this moment ; the weather is cold and
wintry. The Reciprocity resolution will be brought up next Friday, but
it is a question whether passing it here will be of any advantage now, from
the reception the measure has met with in the United States.
" There is the prospect' of a couple of balls next week. Dinners are
however, all the rage. Tell Mama I will write a long letter to her in a few
days. " Montreal is at this moment very lively in sleighing and parties, but
quite down in every relation of business ; of course the meetino- of Parlia
ment has brought together a great number of people, and I am daily meeting
the most unexpected acquaintances. * * * "phe ni<^ht before last

351
we had an interesting debate on the Reciprocity resolutions. It lasted from
eight o'clock until one, and brought out a general expression of the views of
the House. The majority of the members are not only in favor of Recipro
city, but thorough free traders.
" I shall endeavour to get the Governor to take walks occasionally; it will
be a difficult matter, for he will never do anything without an object, and that
of health, he considers too remote without being connected with occupation.' '
Soon after, a measure was brought into the House by Mr. Lafontaine
for a settlement of the Rebellion Losses in Lower Canada. It was supported
by our subject in consequence of its ha-ving been determined upon before he
entered the Government ; and therefore, although not in sympathy
with the measure, yet he believed that he should necessarily be prepared
to concede something, and all in order to accomplish others which were of
paramount importance, particularly Reciprocity.
In consequence of Lord Elgin assenting to the Rebellion Losses Bill,
a violent ferment took place in Montreal among the adherents of the oppo
sition. Meetings were held, and resolutions of a decided character were
adopted ; this was countenanced by the leaders, until the excited mob took
the matter into their own hands, and proceeded without opposition in car
rying out violent measures, terminating in the burning of the Parliament
buildings. These extracts are given to account in some measure for these
outrageous and violent proceedings.
The following is from Lindsay's Life of William Lyon Mackenzie: — "The
Canadian Government, in 1849, originated a measure for a complete am
nesty of all offences arising out of the events of 1837-8. Mackenzie had
for some time been the last exile. It passed unanimously in both Houses,
and, in the name of the Queen, Lord Elgin, as Governor General, gave it
the Royal assent on the 1st of February, 1849. While in Montreal, he
visited the Legislative library, in his right as ex-member. Col. Prince,
a member of the House, went up to him and demanded to see the ticket of
the member by whom the ex-member was introduced ; or, said he with em
phasis, ' I will kick you down stairs if you don't leave this moment.' "
Mr. Mackenzie was afterwards introduced to the library by a volunteer
member, Hon. Sandfield Macdonald, with whom he had no previous personal
acquaintance. A story is told that when Mr. Macdonald returned to Glengary, his
Highland constituents complained of his suspicious civilities to a pardoned
rebel ; and that Mr, Macdonald, who is entirely destitute of the objectiona
ble clannishness ascribed to some of his countrymen, replied, "Do you think
1 would see an Englishman kick a Scotchman, and not interfere?"
In a letter to Dr. Barker, of Kingston, written only seven days after
the occurrence. Col. Prince said, " I acted on the impulse of the moment ;
and I tell you candidly, that had I known then what you and Chisholm
havesince informed me of, he might have enjoyed his studies in our library
as long as he pleased, without any interruption from me."

352
The hostility to the ex-member, and his acceptance afterwards, can be
estimated by the following extracts from the author before quoted, the for
mer of which had only then seen the light.
The following document was printed and distributed in hand bill form
ten days before the outbreak of '3Y:
" Independence.
" There have been nineteen strikes" for independence from European
tyranny on the continent of America. They were all successful ! The
Tories, therefore, by helping us will help themselves." •*¦*;(:
February 3rd, Mr. Mackenzie addressed a communication to Earl Grey
at the Colonial office, containing some remarkable confessions. From this
communication we quote the following extracts :
" A course of careful observation, during the last eleven years, has fully
satisfied me, that, had the violent movements in which I and many others
were engaged on both sides of the Niagara, proved successful, that success
would have deeply injured the people of Canada, whom I then believed I
was serving at great risks ; that it would have deprived millions, perhaps,
of our own countrymen in Europe of a home on this continent, except upon
conditions, though many hundreds of thousands have been constrained to
accept them, but are of an exceedingly onerous and degrading character.
" There is not a living man on this continent who more sincerely desires
that British government in Canada may long continue, and give a home and
a welcome to the old countrymen than myself.
" The result is, not a desire to use power and influence here, but
help if I can, and all I can, the country of my birth."
The meeting held at St. Catharines, 26th February, gave a stimulus to the
pictorial art of a Mr. Osborn, then a rare event, and the action ofthe meet
ing, with the likenesses of the principal characters, was graphically delineated
Among them was Mr. John McMuUen, afterwards the compiler of French Ca
nadian and English History. He gives a very brief notice indeed at the close
of that History: — " Some rioting occurred at pnblio meetings got up to vote on
addresses, &c."
We make the following extracts from the journal of our subject : —
"April 25th, — The Governor came down to-day and assented to bills.
" In consequence ot the remonstrances of the Montreal merchants, induced
by the arrival of two vessels, the bill to increase the tariff, and the Indemnity
Bill was also introduced.
" This last produced a riotous assault upon the members, and the destruc
tion of the House. The riot lasted till 28th. The subjoct of the change of
the seat of the Government postponed for the present. •
" May 30th,^ — House closed.
"Slst — Wrote Mr. Dunscombe, to present report by 15th prox. on public
roads. " June 2nd, — Obtained an order in Council to obtain confirmation by
Board of Works.
"4th, — Put in minutes on subject of public lands.''

363
We insert the following letter from one of his frontier constituents,
showing what was then required by his party :
" Dear Sir, — You say to me in your answer that ' Doctor Ryerson, nor
any other office holder, has not by you been given a thought that office-
holding is a small benefit in your mind.' So it is in the detail, but not so
in the heads of departments — a department which can more or less influence
the minds of the whole of the rising generation. # * *
"Our party, if they think necessary, can stir up the Province from one
end to the other, by a whirlwind, accompanied by flashes of lightning, and
roarmg of thunder. Had the Reformers as well as the Conservatives an
independence or annexation programme T'
The foUo-wing to the author shows Mr. M.'s views on the great events
of the day very plainly : — " Montreal, 7th May.
"Mt Dear Son, — The country is in an unsettled state, and the result
time alone will determine. The Governor General will, I trust, be sustained
for adhering to the constitution, whether the particular measure was right or
wrong. The time has arrived when we should support that principle ; and
any changes which may take place will, I hope, be in that direction. The country
will no doubt be placed in embarrassment, and its trade greatly retarded.
Changes will take place, and that too, rapidly; but all may, by judicious manage
ment, be turned to good account. Every step will lead to more liberal mea
sures. " Prom all I have seen and from the experience of legislation gained in thirty
years, I find events will take their natural course — you cannot hasten or retard
them. I would therefore advise my sons, at the same time that they advocate
their opinions, not to take so prominent a part as to lose their invaluable time,
aa I have done. Let me know the general or different opinions entertained at
this moment on our present situation and prospects. With a hope of hearing
from you soon, I remain your affectionate father,
"WM. HAMILTON MERRITT."
"J. P. Meeritt, Esq."
May 17th, 1849. — Among the various meetings held at St. Catharines,
regarding the petition to the Home Government for the recall of the Governor,
(who had signed the Rebellion Losses Bill and dissolution of the House,) one
amounting to an attempt to burn the Governor General and Cabinet in effigy.
These were attended by an amateur Editor of the Journal whose spicy,
independent and well written articles, in strange opposition and support
to our subject, caused the following from Mr. Rolland Macdonald :—
" Time was, when the St. Catharines Jou/mal had one solitary virtue, he
said, that was a negative one, it did no harm. We have already noticed the
violent party stand this paper had assumed, going so far as to taunt the Con
servative party for not raising an opposition candidate, at the unanimous elec
tion of Mr. Merritt."
The proceedings ofthe House are thus summarized by the Jowrnal:
" June 7th,— Parliament has at last been prorogued, after a session of un
usual and singular productiveness of new acts. The session just concluded

354
lasted four months and a half, a little longer than the one of '44-5, but passed
oae-third more bills than the latter. What interest the Imperial Government
has in some of these, it is difficult to imagine.
" That they will eventually receive the royal assent we believe, but it is to
be wished that the practice was yet further narrowed.
" We have been pleased to observe the tendency manifested towards the
enactment of general measures, as for instance, the one authorizing joint stock
companies for the construction of roads, (fee, and thus to relieve individuals
and the public of the cost ot applying for and passing separate acts for every
trifling improvement. There is still abundant room for acts of a similar cha
racter, and we hope to see them brought up."
We quote further from the Journal, on the measures ofthe government: —
" The Hon. W. H. Merritt. — We are pleased to see that the principle
of creating a noble endowment for pur Public Schools, from the public lands
of the Province, is incorporated in a bill now progressing in the House. This
act of legislation should be hailed by the country, as the very best of the ses
sion, and certainly, one that will transmit Mr. Merritt's name to posterity, as
the best friend of the Province."
The House closed on 30th May, after a stormy session. The cholera was
threatening, members of Government leaving. Our subject was deputed by
the Council to obtain the money voted, in New York, Boston or elsewhere, and
also to obtain the final answer, if possible, of the Cabinet- at Washington on the
Reciprocity Treaty.
We resume Mr. Merritt's private journal of proceedings after the close
of the House.
"4th June. — 1st, Recommended the discontinuance of any names
hereafter on the U. E. Militia, or any other land lists.
" 2nd — The discontinuance of the payment of postage after the 1st Octo
ber next.
" 3rd — The re-establishment of settlement duties as in 1818.
" 4th — The manner of furnishing the statements of land sold, cash re
ceived, expenses on account of each separate fund, as well as the number
of acres exchanged for land rights.
5th — The system of surveys in future, if not attended to, a minute to
be made out, and submitted, with all the facts prepared in accompanying
document. I employed my time in preparing statements until Monday
evening, llth June."
He set out Thursday l2th June, and met by appointment friends in Sara
toga. After two days stay at this watering place, Mr. M. started for Al.
bany, where he received the attention of Governor Hunt and family.
On Monday 18th he left for Boston, where, after a morning'? interview
with the diplomatists and capitalists, including A. Lawrence, Minister to Eng
land, he went to New York.
While passing through New York, Mr. Merritt sent a letter to his son
whe, with his party, partly for pleasure, partly for business, had returned io
Utica.

355
"I have Some reason for supposing a loan may be effected at Washington
with Corcoran, Briggs &, Co."
He reached Washington on Friday 22nd, and resided with Mr. Crampton
for the week.
We again insert an extract from Mrs. M.'s journal, recounting a visit
over the same ground. When it is considered that Eastern New York was
the home of most of the early settlers of English Canada, exemplified by
the familiar saying, of, when going there, as going to the Colony, the space
thus occupied -will hardly be considered too great.
"From St. Catharines to Saratoga, 9th June, 1849.
"Started, after a three days notice, to meet Mr. Merritt at Sara
toga for the purpose of accompanying him to the city of WasMngton, I
did not require much time for preparation, as I had anticipated the journey
all the fore part of winter, and was as well prepared for it as I could be.
" Ferried over to Lewiston. At 4 o'clock went on board of steamer
Ontario — Mrs. Adams, son William and I ; pleasant afternoon ; the lake
smooth as a mirror, had I the pen of a ready writer, I might pourtray a
sketch of a brief happy period, elated by hope, after a winter spent — but I
¦will not say how — and all the month of April in sickness ; but it was all
forgot for the time in the pleasure anticipated of meeting my husband and
journeying with him — interchange of thought — admiring new scenes, unin
terrupted for a while, with the cares incident to this life. I slept well, and
never knew when the boat went up to Rochester landing.
'^ Sunday morning breakfasted at the Welland House, Oswego. Went
in a coach on a plank road to Rome, 6 P. M. There was one chatty lady
whose husband had gone to CaliforMa ; I forgot to mention another on board
the steamer, whose husband had also gone there ; he was a physician, expect
ed he would be absent two years. Often when speaking of him the tears
would start to her eyes. Both were quite interesting women. What a pity
men who have so unsettled a disposition should ever marry, take poor women
from comfortable homes, perhaps, and all the endearments of early affection,
and leave them to struggle alone through the world. On the other hand
there was one unfortunate woman in the coach who was leaving her husband
and children from abusive treatment^ I lent her my shawl.
"Utica, seven o'clock P. M., on the moming of the llth at nine o'clock
left in cars' for Saratoga, and arrived there in the middle of the afternoon ;
cousin Martin went with us to see the High Rock Spring. I thought if I
could see that object I should know the locality of the place. I had visited it
when eleven years old, in company with my father and aunt Mary. I had
nearly a perfect recollection of the place, the hole appears larger, very hkely
it has worn, by letting down the tin cup for forty-four years.
" We became acquainted with Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton of New York,
Mr and Mrs Chambers and Mrs Thomas of Boston, Mrs. Lamar of Brook
lyn (fee Mrs Prendergast expressed great anxiety for Mr. Merritt's arrival
eveir time the cars came in, and would say to me, ' why how do you bear it
so comoosedly' If Martin don't come when I expect Mm, I am almost dis:
tracted ' I said I supposed it was because she had a greater regard for her
husband than I had for mine.

356
" Wednesday, 14th, — After dinner Wm. and Lydia got eaeh a carriage
and we went to Saratoga Lake, four miles, a pleasant drive and a very plea
sant place when you get there. Aunt and Lydia took Mrs. Lamar and her
children in their carriage ; we had Mrs. Chambers' grandson with us, Mrs.
C.'s party had been to the lake that morning.
" While there we were told the man at the lake house had died suddenly
the evening before at the village.
" We returned about 4 o'clock, and found that Mr. Merritt had arrived
soon after we left for the lake. He had found and taken possession of
our parlour. I expected to see him changed, but not so much ; he was so
pale and care-worn ; still, I was too happy in beholding him after so long an
absence. " Lydia came in in about half an hour, she had not heard of his coming,
she said she had hoped to witness a scene, and her surprise and vexation was
visible ; I laughed to see her disappointment.
" 14th, — Mr. Merritt, Mrs. Adams and I took a stroll to see the old
part of Saratoga village. It appears much as I recollect it, the old tavern
we stopped at and a house opposite with a verandah.
" The Rock Spring has no house over it as then, but there is one near
by, where a woman attends to visitors, says she pays a large sum in rent, and
barely makes a living.
" We then passed down the ravine calling at the different springs and
tasting the water at Hamilton spring, and one called Iodine, I don't remem
ber all the names. We next went to the circular railroad, and took a ride-
William acting as engineer and conductor. It is situated in a dense forest,
very agreeable amusement on a hot day ; met there with a Mrs. 
and son, who, Mr. Merritt introduced to us ; he had met ¦with them in
Montreal, where she had been for her daughter at school.
" Friday, 15th, — Mr. Merritt left unexpectedly on the 9 oclock train
for Albany. " However I spent the time until two with my poor afflicted aunt who
in all probability I will never see again in this world. Cousin Martin and
Mr. Hamilton accompanied us to the depot at two, and we, Mrs. A., Wm.
and I were soon off. We passed the familiar town of Balstown, and through
a fertile country to Troy, had a view of my native village Lansingburgh, the
islands, where I and the young people had paddled to in a skiff, and the
bank of the river to "Waterford, where Sally J  , I and others had often
strolled. We had a thunder shower on the way which cooled and refreshed
the air.
" Stopped a short time at the Troy House long enough however to rea
lize many scenes and changes. Piatt Titus, the former owner, his delicate
wife, (ma's cousin) and their children. Took stage to Albany, excellent
road. A young woman told us that there had been two cases of Cholera
in Saratoga ; the man I mentioned, and a waiter at Congress Hall. The
Drs. did not call it Cholera. We arrived at Congress Hall, Albany, at dusk,
Mr. Merritt was there, and assisted us out of the carriage. The house ap
peared like some fairy spot, all the different rooms so brilliantly lighted
with gas.
" Saturday, 16th, — Walked about and went shopping in Broadway.
Went up to return Mrs. Gov. Hunt's call.

357
I have to note our walks in Albany, on the hill seeking for the
old residences of George Tompkins and Bloodgood Jenkins kc They
appear far more comfortable with their spacious grounds and lofty shrub
bery now than then, and beautiful airy parks are in front ofthe State House.
Congress Hall is bordered by many spacious houses, and at some points the
riew of Troy, and the distant hills and villages were magmficent. I enjoyed
the scene and that Sunday afternoon far more than any part of my journey,
and why ? T participated in tliem with my husband not once alloyed by the
thought that on the morre^w we would commence another long separation.
" Sunday, 17th — Accompanied Mr. and Mrs. Hunt to church. In the
evening, had a consultation whether we should accompany Mr. Merritt to
WasMngton, or whether I should go and Mrs. A. and William return home.
"Monday, 18th, — Mr. M. said that I could meet him at New York,
but every body was leaving the city on account of sickness. I did not fear
taking the Cholera in one place more than another. Especially in travelling.
I said Ms health was not good, and I objected to his going alone ; that I might
be of use in case he was sick. But he remarked he could hurry on faster
¦without me, I could go to Utica and have a longer visit ¦with my cousin
and then we would go home together. I saw how it was, and resolved io
return. It was indeed a disappointment, and unexpected, although I try to
be prepared for all events. I had come a long way, spent a great deal of
money, had been led to anticipate this journey to Washington ever since he
went from home last fall. I thought we would have a quiet time for a tete-a-
tete before the bustle of meeting inquisitive neighbours, in the hundreds of
miles we would travel together, and now, was about to part without having
travelled one — No ! not one individual mile together.
" 18th, — Mr. Merritt left at 6 o'clock for Boston. We went shopping
and spent the time rambling about; Started when the 2 o'clock train came in;
three cars of German emigrants were attached. They had only arrived at
N. Y. the day before. It was said that in three or four days they would be
on their land in Wisconsin, so rapidly were they hurried on, it was amusing
to see them, drink and lave in the water, at the fountain in St. Johnsville.
" Arrived at Utica at 7 o'clock, walked up to Mr. Craft's, he came in
shortly after. They were glad to see us.
" 'Tuesday, 19th. — Passed in making mutual inquiries and in rest and
arrangements. Wrote home.
" Wednesday, 20th, — William got a carriage and we went to Trenton
Falls, foirrteen miles, Mrs. A — accompamed. Plank roads most of the way
and many places worthy of observation. At Trenton, we soon sallied out to see
the won(iers. Cousin Jane walked across the woods to a refreshment room.
I did not decide on making the tour of the falls, thinking that it would be
too fatiguing on so hot a day; but I soon found I must go down the long
stairs to see anytMng ; so down I ventured first into the deep ravine, and
then walked up the margin ofthe stream. There are three falls ; in one place
a bridge is thrown across the stream to allow visitors to cross; they have a bet
ter -view by going on the other side, but they must return to the bridge. It is
fearful passing some points of rocks ; one where Col. Thorn's little daughter
was lest, and a young lady at another time. There is a foot path made, and
chains put up to hold by. I could not depend on the chains however, as I saw
that two staples had been drawn out. The river lashes and foams at these
points, and if a poor inqmsitive mortal should slip he is gone. At length

358
by climbing steep acclivities, stepping on stones to avoid the wet, under a
hot sun, with an occasional breeze blowing up the ravine, we passed the
three falls, and looking up to a considerable height, saw cousin Jane quietly
sitting on a bench, outside the said refreshment room, where, after ascending
another flight of stairs, we joined her and partook of some lemonade. As
cending another part of the hill we had a cool shady walk of three-quarters
of a mile, with birds singing over head, back to the hotel. After dinner
all went up stairs for rest, and to get cool if possible. Carriages coming
and going all the time, many stay several days. Rode home in the cool of
the afternoon.
" Thursday, 21st, — Visitors received, rested after their departure.
" Friday, 22nd, — Received a letter from Mr. Merritt at N. Y., on 20th.
He was to reach Washington on 21st, and thought only to be there a day
or two, which would bring it to 23d, and allowing two or three days foj him
to come to Utica, say 26th. As he had got on so rapidly and in good health,
I began to take courage, and we considered it not to be out of the way,
knowing he would be anxious to get home, and we did not venture on taking
any excursions after the 26th that would take us a day from Utica.
" In the evening we called to see Mrs. Grisley.
"Saturday, 23rd, — Mrs. Kellog invited us to tea, spent the evening till
half past nine. •
" 24th, — Acompanied Mr. and Mrs, Crafts to Dutch Reform church, Mr.
Wood preached. Wyley is the name of their minister — Rain — Mr. Crafts
sent a carriage for us. After dinner I took a short nap. I felt ill, but was no
doubt better for going out, the rest of the afternoon. I supposed they had all
gone to church, and wondered if the servants were left with the care of the
house, but Miss Crafts had been lying down in her room. I read a while
by the window and was dressed and quite refreshed when they all came in.
'¦' 25th, — Returned some calls in the moming. Mrs. Thomas showed us
her fine garden ; the strawberries were just ripening. She is a perfect lady
and lovely in her age. A young lady was making a bouquet for Mrs. Coop
er's party. A pretty contrast to the matron.
" Went into Mr. Walcot's garden, he has a great many fine strawberries,
he picked a few and gave us, he had some fine roses.
" Mrs. Hurlburt confined to her room with Rheumatism. We spent
the evening at Mrs. Kellogg's. She is the person I went with to N. Y. in
April, 1845."
Mr. Merritt did not arrive, but in place sent a letter that he could not
meet them. He had a message that would detain him, and then to go to
Montreal immediately.
One of the first and necessary acts of the Government had been the issue
of Government debentures based on the accruing revenue of the current
year, in such small sums as that they might form a circulating medium.
This scheme had been tried by the Welland Canal Company, before the
rebellion, and the most favourite one with our subject, approaching the Pro
vincial Bank scheme, where the Government would be the bankers but
now, any more than then, were circumstances in the country favourable to
their passing as currency, being in this instance from 2 to 3 per cent, discount.

359
The Inspector .General was sent to England, while our subject tried the
States, to raise the necessary funds. As the inspector was from the old
country, a quasi-political mission was annexed.
Our subject, although personally and publicly respected in many of the bor
der states, particularly New York, where his intimate knowledge of its people,
their trade and commerce, gained him from his own people the sobri
quet of the " Hon. member from New Yorji." Yet, commercially speaking,
he was their greatest stumbling block, as he became a strong rival to them in
the competition for the now increasing carrying trade of the west.
" Friday, 22nd June, — Arrived in Washington at 10 o'clock, stopped at
Willard's. " Saturday, 23rd, — Removed to Mr. Crampton's, My first object was
to see Corcoran and Briggs, and then J. M. Clayton, Secretary of State,
which I did. The latter recommended my making out a statement in writ
ing, in detail, on the subject of our commercial intercourse. .
"I made out a financial statement for Corcoran, Briggs k Co., who had
not the remotest idea Canada stocks would be taken in the New York mar
ket, and memorandum which was -with Mr. Crampton's official note, enclo
sing the same, presented on Monday the 25th June, in the evening.
"Tuesday, 26thj — Had commenced the statement promised of the receipts
and expenditures of the different U. S. Custom establishments on the Cana
dian frontier, which James McClery of the Treasury Department promised
should be finished by him in a day or two.
" In return, I have promised a copy of our public accounts to be enclosed
to the care of McClintock Young, Chief Clerk, Treasury departmeint.
" Wednesday, 27th, — After visiting Mr. Ewing, of Ohio, Secretary de
partment of the Interior, and Mr. Corwin, Post-master General, and Mr.
Nesbeth and L. L. Tiernay, Daniel Webster, who I met on Saturday and
is decidedly in favour of the measure. Called on the Secretary of State,
who, I learn, had sent in his reply to Mr. Crampton's note.
"I expressed my regret at the decision the Cabinet had come to, gave a
verbal statement of the existing trade and its capability. The Government
requested me to place those statements in writing also, which I did on my
return, and sent in without a copy,
Thursday, 28th, — Mr. Crampton and I received notes to the Secretai-y of
State's rooms, President Filmore of the United States presiding.
" The Secretary then proposed to Mr. Crampton and myself, that if the
British Government would authorize him to include the surrender of the
fisheries, they would at once open a negotiation and conclude a treaty. That
the only reason why they did not make the proposal, was a direct refusal
of Lord Palmerston to open a treaty in the subject, which had been proposed
by Mr. Bancroft last year. This ended, in mutual regret, our interview
with the President ; and in my extremity, the only course open to the
Provincial Government of Canada. Mr. Clayton recommended delay un
til the decision of Congress and the Imperial Government was had
on the subject of Fisheries, and recommended my remaining a few days to
talk the matter over. He promised to call the Cabinet again on the mor
row, to reconsider the only point we urged — viz. an official note, to state

360
clearly and explicitly that in case the Imperial Parliament would relinquish
or treat on the fisheries, they would extend reciprocity to all the colonies.
" Same evening sent a note that Cabinet could not at present enter mto
any stipulation on that subject.
"Thursday, 29th, — Called at the land office, and procured information
from Mr. Young,
"Reflections on this transaction. As far as his appearance and address
went, I was pleased with the President, But he did not enter into business
like President Polk. Nor do the present Cabinet like the last.
" The present Cabinet are in doubts, whether the removal of duty on the
natural productions of Canada, will not bring the protectors of the
manufactured article into odium. They also doubt the effect of the re
moving of duties by Great Britain, on the opinion of the people — as that
was done for the interest of home manufactures.
" The Cabinet reiterates, in answer to the Imperial proposal, made as
early as in Jan'y, 1846. Three years and a half no treaty will be entered into.
•' Such is the apathy of the public mind respecting Canada, that it cannot
be roused. The Cabinet or the people knew very little about the country,
or the St. Lawrence, less than 30 years past; and they appear to attach
very little importance to our navigation, our canals, or our trade. The
next congress are as likely to pass the bill as not, if attended to. In
WasMngton, Bronson of Oswego is the man — or they may reject it on the
most trifling pretence.
"The Provincial Government have done every thing in their power. They
appealed to the Imperial Government in 1846. Passed the bill discriminating
duties in 1847. My mission was here in 1848. Passed a bill removing all
duties on United States products this year.
"It now rests wholly with our mother country ; if she will not move, the
Canadas are lost, and the other colonies will soon follow. If the duty is
imposed on the United States productions, equal to those imposed on
Canada's, it will insure the passage of a bill here immediately. And if
she will abandon the fisheries, reciprocity may be gained hereafter.
" Sunday, 1st July, — Remained over at Baltimore, went to church with
Mrs. M.'s cousin, Mr. Williams.
" Monday 2nd, — Arrived in New York at 9 o'clock in the evening, wea
ther cooler.
" Tuesday, 3rd, — ^My birthday, 56 years since 1793. Engaged in prepar
ing statements, sent them to several capitalists including Corcoran and Briggs.
" 6tli July, — Received a letter from the latter, authorizing $125,000 to
be taken in their name.
" Mr. Bidwell introduced me to Caleb C. Halsted, president of Manhat
tan Bank, and took a lively interest in the negotiations, as well as the pres
ent position, of the country. Left same night.
" July 7 th, — Had an interview with Thurlow Weed Esquire, editor of
the Albany Evening Jom-nal, must send him a statement of the revenue —
he is the most influential man of the party.
" Write the Hon. W. H. Wilmot, Attomey General Seward, A Bron
son, and send copies of Mss. to the different colonies forthwith. Wrote
Hincks, recommended him to Lord Palmerston. Is it necessary to send a
copy to him also?

361
" July 8th, — Attended church, and at 4 went to Whitehall.
" Monday July 9th, — Arrived at Montreal at flve o'clock. Spent till
the 21st July in official business, pending Mr. Hincks' return from England,
which was estimated at six weeks."
On his return from Washington he remained at Montreal for a few
days, and then proceeded on his way home, via Brockville.
"Left Montreal 21st, for St. Catharines, at 12 o'clock. Called and ex
amined the different cuts, and wrote from thence, recommending the wall
ing of B. and L. cut at once.
" Sunday, 22nd July, — Spent the day at Brockville,
" Monday, 23rd, — "Wrote Price to remind him of the orders to discon
tinue the insertion of land claims. Col. Tache and Keefer on subject of canals.
"Tuesday, 24th,. — Remained over at Toronto one day, wrote His Ex
cellency and Baldwin. ,
""Wednesday, 25th, — Arrived at Port Dalhousie at 12 o'clock.
" Thursday, 26th, — Spent the day at home. Declined the proffer of a
public dinner.
" Friday, 27th, — .Attended a pic-nic at the whirlpool. Visited the Sus
pension Bridge.
" Saturday, 28th, — Quiet, not well.
" Monday, — Indisposed.
"Tuesday, 30th, — Attended to na business. Felt the effects of close
confinement for nine months without exercise, which must in future be
avoided. " Monday, 6th August, — Wrote Mr. Baldwin and His Excellency the
Governor General on the subject of Reciprocity, not pressing my return."
Mr. Merritt continued still under the weather, as we see in his memo.
of 1 1th. Attended very little business, either private or public till he re
ceived a telegraph despatch to return to Montreal.
" Wednesday, 15th, — Left home for Niagara, and reached Toronto at 4
o'clock Thursday. Reached Kingston Friday morning.
" Saturday, 1 8th, — Reached Montreal in the morning, running the La-
chine Rapids. Met council ; Captain Wetherall anticipates an outbreak,
say two or three thousand can be armed to oppose the civil force. Time
¦will test the accuracy of this statement, not credible."
At the capital he found that quiet was far from being restored, the dis.
turbance being augmented by the ill-suceess of their delegases.
The conventions and the deputations of the malcontents sent home,
not meeting with the success anticipated. Were succeeded by riots in the
capital, which are thus briefly alluded to in the Provincialist August 1st :
" Sir A MacNab and Mr. Cayley, the late Inspector General are doing
all they can to prevent it, and are busy in the ignoble attempt of misrepre
senting the country, and trying to make the British Government and people
believe that we are on the eve of a rebellion, citing the unruly acts of their
own party, which they were largely guilty of fomenting, in proof of their
assertions. Have either of them (lone anything else during their present
visit to England 1"

362
" Friday, 24th August, — Continued on the corporation transactions, not
worth recorciing. Tranquillity partially restored.
" Saturday 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, — Engaged in the discussion of cor
poration business. The arrests had caused assemblages, the attack on La-
fontaine's house and the death of one of the mob created an excitement, tu
mult and incendiarism was the consequence, everything in confusion. Pub
lic duties neglected, nothing doing. The Mayor at length called upon the
citizens to do their duty and maintain peace. I cannot feel an interest in
those transactions.
"The minute from the Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick reqMres
an answer. " Saturday, 25th, — Had a full council except Col. Tache, who heard of
the death of his brother ; Attorney General Baldwin arrived. Conference
to Halifax determined on. Hon. L. H. Lafontaine and myself appointed,
and a decision resolved to determine whither and when to remove the seat
of Govemment on our return."
A Conference of tbe different Provincial Governments being about to
be held in Halifax, for the discussion of the Reciprocity question, he left
in company with the Hon. Mr. Lafontaine for that city, going by way of the
Chambly Canal and Burlington, and thence to Boston.
" Sunday, 26th, — Attended Christ Church. Left Montreal at 3 o'clock,
knowing the boat would leave St Johns at 2 o'clock, it would give me an
opportunity of seeing the River Chambly Canal and country.
" Monday, 27th, — Reached Mott's Inn at 9 o'clock, passed through a
beautiful country, the crops good, the weather was mild, and pleasant scen
ery was delightful. Called on the Cure of Chambly, Mr Metot. The boat
having left St. Johns to B. 25, I remained until Monday 2 o'clock, arrived
at Purlington at 9 o'clock, took Vermont Central to Windsor, 115 miles,
340 miles to Boston, 9 hours."
Here they took the Mail Steamer for Halifax, at which place they ar
rived on the Slst August. During the journey he prepared a statement of
the different matters affected by the Treaty which he had been maturing for
a long period. It required delicate management, as conciliatory measures
affecting England, the United States, and the several American Pro-vinces
had all to be attended to, besides the very important matter of the flsheries,
which were held in such regard by the people of the Maritime Provinces.
It is related, by way of anecdote, that so absorbed was our subject with
this matter, that, during the passage from Boston to Halifax, the vessel
(the Hibernia) struck on a rock during a dense fog, and when considerable
excitement appeared to be manifested by all on board, Mr. Merritt, who
was busily engaged writing, seemed to pay no attention to the matter, un
til roused to a sense of their position by Mr. Lafontaine, who seemed to
think that something serious had happened. He, however, declined to leave
the cabin, declaring that the prospects were as good there as outside during
the fog and disturbance.

363
On arriving in Halifax, his first act was to visit his old friend Sir John
Harvey, the Governor, by whom he was warmly received.
The conference terminated after three days discussion, by refusal of the
Maritime Provinces to recommend the Imperial Govemment to open the
fisheries to the U. S. ; but a resolution was passed, recommending Britain
to open negotiations for a Reciprocity between all the American Colonies
and the States. Our subject did not consider that the conference effected
anything. He then decided upon endeavouring to obtain Reciprocity on the basis
of the old proposition, which was neglected to be confirmed by the U. S.
Senate. They left in the Steamer Niagara, on the 5th September,
and arrived in New York on the 7th; from thence he wrote to Mr. Cramp.
ton detailing his operations, and afterwards went to New Bedford, for the
purpose of seeing Mr. Grinnell on the subject. He then went to Boston
again, and held a short conference with Mr. Lawrence, the new ambassador
to England ; but as this gentleman was opposed to the idea in toto, the
matter ended for the present ; and five years of Imperial and ColoMal diplo
macy to obtain it was necessary. He returned home by way of Springfield
and Syracuse, where he attended the State Fair, and arrived in Montreal
on the 16th. On the departure of the Commission, composing so large a
proportion of his working Cabinet, Lord Elgin took advantage of the oppor
tumty to spend with his family a few weeks in the vicinity of Niagara Falls.
Consequently he soon afterwards made a tour westward, visiting all the
chief cities and towns on the route.
As anything concerning the great Niagara, its winding shores and pic
turesque islands is interesting to the public, we insert the following to the
President of the Council after Ms return from Washington : —
"Falls, July 20th, 1849.
" Mt Dear Sir, — I hope that yon are not losing sight of the Island for
me. I want it much this summer, that 1 may go to work in clearing out the
dead wood. Pray let me know what prospect I have of getting it, and on
what terms. What can I do with Government about the Erie and Ontario
Railroad, and how shall I proceed. Yours, &c.
" THOS. C. STREET."
" Hon. W. H. Merritt."
At the council held soon after his return, the Cabinet discussed the
most eligible arrangements for the seat of government. But on account
of the Governor's absence, no definite decision could be arrived at.
Mr. Merritt left on the 26tb to join His Excellency, and went as far
as Brantford, and soon after (29th) arrived home. It is noteworthy that
on account of the political opposition exhibited in the convention of dele
gates, termed "the League" held at Kingston the previous month, none of the
Cabinet visited the Provincial Exhibition now held in that place.

364
The Jowrnal notices his arrival as follows : —
" The Hon. W. H. Merritt has returned for a few days to St. Catharines.
We find him heartily and honestly engaged in endeavouring to make Canada
the most prosperous portion of the American continent. We perfectly under
stand his policy for the accomplishment of this desirable object, and we are
quite satisfied that it is perfectly practicable.
At home he wrote Mr. Cobden, Sir R. Peel and other English statesmen,
and also to Lord Elgin, who was stopping at Drummondville. His corres
pondence at this time on Reciprocity was very large. Reports about the
moving of the Government department to Toronto, much to the annoyance
of the Montrealers.
The Journal notices the presentation of an address to Her Majesty's
representative, which was most graciously received.
Whilst the Governor was at the Falls, Mr. Merritt, on behaff
of the people of St. Catharines, invited him to visit the Canal, and
partake of a public dinner, which was accepted and passed off very harmo
niously. His Exellency expressing a wish to have a meeting of the Cabinet at
Toronto, the President of the Council notified Councillors Tache, Lafontaine,
Cameron, Carron, Blake and Robinson to meet there on the 1 1th. This
was followed by one at the Falls on the 15th. Of this he notices in a letter
to Mrs. Merritt, who, with the author, had been spending a month at May
ville in search of health : —
" Dear C. — This place no longer appears like home, you being absent ;
in fact I have spent the greater part of the time in moving about. I am
going to attend a meeting at the Falls on the 15th, to determine the location
of our seat of Government, which I hope it will be at Toronto, when I shall
make arrangements whereby we may spend the winter together."
We have hinted that the Governor's visit, in part political, as well as
his other acts of administration, was viewed -with disapprobation by the
opposition. Their plans being matured, and now organized, through
the machinery of a convention of delegates from the people, we insert the
following to show how these proceedings were -viewed by the Govemment
press : —
Journal, October 4.
"The Governor General's tour continues to be most popular. Now and
then a growl from the Tories remind us that there is not unanimity. This
we do not expect, but we would expect, at least that party feelings would
be merged in the boasted loyalty of these men, and that instead of
confounding the first branch of the Government with the second and third,
they would recognize in the Governor General the representative of the
Queen. " The ' ignorant and ' rebellious' Irish have shown more constitutional dis
cernment and feeling, than our constitutionally well-bred tories of Canada.

365
"Mr. Macauley says, the statute book of England contains laws in reference
to Ireland that are a ' proverb of infamy' throughout the world. Yet those
men (the Irish) do not think of insulting Her Majesty by reproaching her
with these statutes. They do not dream of insulting her person because of
the acts of her Ministry. They discriminate between the Queen an d her Cabinet.
" Why not our Tory desperadoes do the same ? Let no man suppose that
it originates in ignorance ; nothing of the kind. They know well enough that
Lord Elgin could do nothing but what he did, but they play a desperate game,
and are willing to run all hazards, only to get rid ofthe present Govemor Gen'l."
Also, to shew how wide-spread and serious was the excitement caused by
our anomalous colonial position, we copy the following from the resolutions of
the New Brunswick Colonial Association : —
" A meeting was recently held at St. Johns for the purpose of considering
the present deplorable state of the province, and fbr devising measures of relief.
It was therefore resolved — That if it be compatible with the general interests
of Great Britain that these colonies should have protection in her distant, and
their only market ; it is but justice that she should find for them other mar
kets on reciprocal terms, where proximity or other advantages would enable
them to maintain a trade by which their existence as British Colonies may be
continued." We give this document of the Annexation Manifesto to show the object
sought, viz : — the change of allegiance. It was opposed by our subject,
though contaimng many of the reforms in our Colonial Government advo
cated by him. We are led to believe that a few malcontents took advan
tage of the disturbed, not to say revolutionary, tendency of the times, to
carry their plan of forming this country into a republic, and seek absorption
into the neighboring States. Their organ, the Lndependent, had but a short-
Hved existence. "October 18, '49.
" Annextion Manifesto : — The number and magnitude of the evils that
afflict our country, and the umversal and increasing depression of its material
interests, call upon all persons ammated by a sincere desire for its welfare,
to combine for the purpose of enquiry and preparation, with a view to the
adoption of such remedies as a mature, and dispassionate investigation, may
suggest. " Belonging to all parties, origins and creeds, but yet agreed upon the ad
vantage of cooperation for the performance of common duty to ourselves and
our country, growing out of common necessity, we have consented in -view
of a brighter and happier future, to merge in oblivion all past differences,
of whatever character, or attributed to any source. In appealing to our
fellow colomsts to unite -with us in this our most needful duty, we solemnly
conjure them, as they desire a successful issue and the welfare of their
country, to enter upon the task, at this momentous crisis, in the same
fraternal spirit.
" The reversal of the ancient policy of Great Britain, whereby she with
drew from the colonies their wonted protection in her markets, has produced
the most disastrous effects upon Canada. In surveying the actual condition
of the country, what but ruin or rapid decay meets the eye ?

366
" Our Provincial Government and Civic Corporations embarrassed; our
banking and other securities greatly depreciated ; our mechanical and agri
cultural interests alike unprosperous; real estate scarcely saleable upon any
terms; our unrivalled rivers, lakes, and canals, almost unused, whilst com
merce abandons our shores ; the circulatmg capital amassed under a more
favourable system, is dissipated with none from any quarter to replace it.
"When other countries are the applicants crippled therefore and checked
in the full career of private and public enterprise, this possession of the
British Crown, our country stands before the world in humiliating contrast,
with its immediate neighbours exhibiting every symptom of a nation fast
sinking to decay.
" With superabundant water power and cheap labour especially in lower
Canada, we have yet no domestic manufactures ; nor the most sangmne,
unless under altered circumstances, anticipate the home growth, or advent
from foreign parts, of either capital or enterprise to embark in tMs great
source of national wealth. Our institutions, unhappily, have not that im
press of permanence which can alone impart security, and inspire confidence;
and the Canadian market is too limited to tempt the foreign capitalist, whilst
the adjoining states are covered with a network of thriving railways, Cana
da has but three lines, which altogether, scarcely exceed fifty miles in length,
and the stock in two of which is held at a depreciation of from 50 to 80 per
cent, a fatal symptom of the torpor overspreading the land. Our present
form of provincial govemment is cumbrous, and so expensive as to be ill
suited to the circumstance of the country ; and the necessary references it
demands to a distant government, imperfectly acquainted -with Canadian
aflfe.irs, and somewhat indifferent to our interests is anomalous and irksome,
yet in the event of a rupture between two of the most powerful nations of
the world, Canada would become the battle field, and the sufferer, however
little her interests might be involved in the case of quarrel or ths issue of
the contest.
" The bitter animosities of political parties and factions in Canada after
leading to violence and upon one occasion to civil war seems not to have
been abated -with time, nor is there at the present moment any prospect of
diminution or aceomodation the aspect of parties become daily, more throat
ing towards each other and under our existing institutions and relations.
Little hope is discernable of a peceful and prosperous admistrations of our
affairs, but difficulties will to all appearance accumulate until government be
comes impractical. In this view of our position any course which may promise
to effaoe existing party distinctions and place entirely new issues before the
people, must be fraught with undeniable advantages. Among the statesmen
of the mother country, among the sagacious observers of the neighboring re
public — in Canada and in all British North American Colonies — amongst all
classes there is a strong prevading conviction, that a political revolution
in tMs country is at hand. Such forboding cannot readily be dispelled,
and they, have moreover a tendency to realize the events to which they
point. " In the meanwhile, serious injury results to Canada from the effect of
this anticipation upon the more desirable claim of settlers, who naturally
prefer a country under fixed and permanent forms of government to one in
a state of transition. Ha-ving thus adverted to some of the causes of our

367
present evils, we would consider how far the remedies ordinarily proposed
possess sound and rational inducements to justify their adoption. 1st. — The
revival of protection in the markets of the united kingdom. This, if attain
able in a sufficient degree, and guaranteed for a long period, would amelio
rate the condition of many of our chief interests ; but the policy of the em
pire forbids the anticipation. Besides, it would be but a partial remedy.
The millions of the mother country demand cheap food; and a second change
from protection to free trade, would complete that ruin which it has done
much to achieve.
" 2nd. — The protection of home manufactures. — Although this might
encourage the growth of the manufacturing interests in Canada, yet without
access to the United States market, there would not be sufficient expansion
of that interest, from the want of consumers, to work any result that could
be admitted as a 'remedy' for the nunierous evils of which we complain.
" 3. A Federal Union of the British American Provinces.
"The advantages claimed for that arrangement are free trade between
the different, provinces, and a diminished governmental expenditure. The
attainments of the latter object would be problematical, and the benefits
anticipated from the former might be secured by legislation under our ex-
istmg system.
" The markets of our sister provinces would not benefit our trade in tim
ber, for they have a surplus of that article in their own forests ; and their
demand for agricultural products would be too limited to absorb our means
of supply. Nor could Canada expect any encouragement to her manufac
turing industry from those quarters. A Federal Union therefore would be
no remedy. " 4. The independance of the British North American Colonies as a
Federal Republic.
" And having regard t(» the powerful confederacy of States conterminous
to itself. The needful military defences would be too costly to render inde
pendence a boon, whilst it would not answer any more than a Federal
Union." Annexation was the only remedy proposed by the manifesto ; and of
course it could not be entertained by our subject.
Journal,-Jvi\y 26th.
" In the eastern portion of this colony, the commercial and the wealthy
influence of the League goes for Annexation ; another portion for Indepen(i-
ence; but these go 'to restore the spirit of our outraged constitution. ' That
is, in other words, to destroy Responsible Government ; and this they have
the impudence to call 'restoring the spirit of our outraged constitution.'
A letter from Inspector Gen. Hinks to an elector on the annexation
manifesto appeared in the papers.
" I refer to the proposition that has been formally made to the people of
Canada, to consider the expediency of seeking a change in their political
condition. I believe that I am warranted in asserting that, setting aside
those questions which our own Parliament has full power to settle, the sin
gle cause of discontent among our people at this moment springs from the
restrictions imposed by the United States on the admission of our staple
products (into her markets. I have had an opportunity since my return
from England of conversing with persons acquainted with public opinion,

368
in various parts of Upper Canada, and all seemed to agree that the incon-
siderstte cry for annexation would be at once stifled by the establishment
of reciprocal free trade with the United States."
Mr. Hincks cleverly hits the principal reason of discontent which pro
duced the above Manifesto.
The following is from the Examiner, e-vidently under Gov't influence : —
" The Annexation Movement. — As a matter of law, it must be doubt
ful whether they could constitutionally be deprived of the right ofthe peti
tion in this case, extraordinary as is the object of their petition.
" The annexation advocates have not told us at what rate of valuation
we are to pay for the fixtures to which John Bull has a claim.
" Not so with some deep seated canker that preys upon the vitals of the
commercial and agricultural community. The denial of reciprocity by the
Americans is likely to keep alive a movement originated in the bitter feel
ings of political defeat.
"The only question at the present moment connected with the subject of
reciprocity is by what means can we wring from Americans what selfishness
has denied us ? If we cannot coax, can we not, by some indirect process,
coerce % We think so, if England will take the matter in hand. She couM
retaliate effectually without returning to the protective system."
In an article against the annexation movement. Journal, of Nov. 1, says :
" Quoting the remarks in Mr. Merritt's speech in page 300 of this book,
wherein he says, if no remedy is applied, the dissatisfaction of '37 will show
itself again in '49.
" Any disinterested person comparing these remarks in 1846, with the re
sult in 1849, must admit that events turned out with unusual precision."
" There is one more advantage implied in the policy of Mr. Merritt, it
would remove the uncertainty that hangs on the minds of men as to our polit
ical relations. A country to be satisfied must be prosperous. Make Canada
prosperous and you don't hear one word about annexation. This we believe
can only be accomplished by a bold, comprehensive policy, such as that espoused
by the Hon. W. H. Merritt.
As the time for the Governor's mo-ving to the new capital .approached,
the privacy which had characterized his visit, the present season, to Niagara,
was abandoned, but not so much as to prevent strictures on what is called
his parsimonious proceedings. Lady Elgin had a reception for ladies; and in
this excited time, the circumstance of keeping her gloves on, according to
the rules of Court etiquette, was taken notice of, the paucity of any great
amount of public entertainments, in contrast to the Earl of Durham at the
same place ten years previous, was also noticed ; however there was a great
scene of activity in the little -village of Drummondville, in the chief hotel
of which the court was held, while the Governor resided there, and a corres
ponding depression was felt after he left.
The succeeding entries in his private journal are : —
" Attended Council from Monday until Saturday 20th at Drummond
ville. Spent tiU Tuesday 1st November, at St. Catharines.

369
, " Received a telegram to attend at Toronto."
Thence he writes 2nd December: —
" Dear Catherine,— I have taken quarters in Queen Street, two (ioo; s
from Church. David says he has spent .£20 for his landlord, Mr. Bolton, '
aheady. He will be in readiness to receive you in the coni-se of the week'.
You enter a hall, drawing-room on right, and" dining-room on left, and my
office behind ; sleeping rooms up stairs, with spare rooms, for wo v.tU have
friends occasionall}'.
To the author he sends his instructions, Dec. 3rd : 
" Let the chesnut mare be well taken care of Have the harness re)>air-
ed. You will send her and the wagon, saddle and l-iidle, a good halter and
all -her clothing. I shall have the stables ready this week, with hay and
oats." These instructions were qualified by : —
" If open and fine I will expect you, if not you will of course defer your
visit till after Christmas."
This happened, and jSIr. if. came over to spend the holidays. They crossed
the lake with their necessai-y effects for a -ivinter's sojourn, the day after
Christmas, December 28.
"We have to chronicle at this usually happy seavou, the suddeij aud
unexpected demise of George Prescott Esq., secretary and treasurer of the
Welland Canal office, who retained his, highly responsible post during all
the changes since his appointment before the rebellion ; — a proof that
Government appreciated the efficient and faithful discharge of his (lutie.s.
A journey up the line, on business connected with the office, a fortnight
before, brought on a severe cold, which acting on a constitution already
impaired by official confinement, caused his sudden and lamented death."
The Suspension Bridge had been epened for carriage travel, and already
shewed its success by jiaying a handsome dividend.

1850.
We make use of Mrs, Merritt's journal for details of the late Winter's
p'roceedings. - " We came over to Toronto, Friday, did some shopping ; saw a St. Ca
tharines friend, now a resident here.
" New Year's day was observed by the gentlemen calling, a gieat many
of whom took advantage of the custom and presented themselves.
" The next week of our sojourn was occupied in receiving the calls of
our old friends in the city, among whom are His Grace, the Lord Bishop,
Mr. and Mrs. Robinson, the Misses Baldwin and Miss Strachan.
" On Monday it rained ; the consequence was, we liad to drive in mud.
We called on the Bishop next day. X

''Took in Frances, ( Mrs. J. Ingersoll) from her boarding school, and went
-infch the party to see our old St.- Catharines friend, Mrs. Fitzgerald, an^d
daughter, Mrs. Hayes.
"Next day, Sunday, 13th, attended the Cathedral, where a stranger
preached. Attended Methodist meeting, accompanied by Mrs. Wood, Mr.
MeiTitt's cousin, who had taken tea with us.
" After driving F. to school, returned to our lodging. Mrs. Robinson
c^ed. " 19th, — Drove, in company with Mrs. P, and her daughter, (formerly
of St. Catharines) as far fts Don Bridge.
" 16tb, — Warm, -with occasional rain, which did not prevent us driving
around the streets of the town. Mr. M. accompanying.
" 1 7th, Mr. M. out duiing with the Bishop.
", 18th, — Mr. S. Keefer and wife arrived.
" 1 9th, — The sun rose this morning clear ; the second time since my
coming here.
" 29th — Mr. Grassett preached. After service, though it was a wet day,
Mr. M. and I rode out to the Asylum.
'¦ 21st,^Again rain. Miss Jarvis here. We sailed on Mr. Cameron
and Strachan, and dined with the Widders.
"22nd, — Received a welcome letter from my old friend, Mrs, Hawley,
who is keeping the house.
"23rd, — Sun shining to-day. Went shopping. Had the carriage up,
and went to meet Mr, M. Returned Mrs. Ridout's and Robinson's calls.
"24:th, — To Council Chamber for Mr. M. Together to wharf, expect
ing son 'William, who, however, did not come. Took a turn in College
Avenue. At a quarter before seven, set out in our carriage for Elmslie
House, to dine with the Gove ruor and Countess ; the dinner over and
all by half-past 10.
" 25th, — Took a long walk with Mrs. K. to the new hospital Saw
soup kitchen ; a very good arangemeut.
" 26th, — -Not up till 10. William came over, quarter to one.
" 27th, — Snowed all day.
" 28th, — Mr. Merritt and W. wrote until three, when Mr. M. was sent
for. This is the fourth time he has attempted to -write, when he had been
interrupted. " 29th, — WiUiam retwrned home.
" 1st,— Calling with Mrs. K.
" 2n(i, — Spent Sunday in doors.
" 3rd, — Received a letter from Thomas in London, he ha^ving crossed
the Atlantic in December.
" 4th, — Mayor Foley, from St. Catharines, who had been chosen this
year, called and brought a letter from son Willi *m.
" 5th, ^ — Spent the evening with Mrs. Hayes.
" 6th, — Drove out, calling at the office, and bringing home Mr, Merritt
to dinner. " 7th, — Snowed, which then turned into rain.
" 8th, — Mayor Foley called before his return ; entrusted him -with a
letter home.
" 9tb., — Rain all day. Mr. M. attempted to stay here, and was sent

371
«5c aa usual. I have received no tidings of J., who, after we left, had
^^« ift t^*^^"®' ^y "^^y of Dunnville, on horse back.
' lOth, — Walked to church. The carriage roads all mud. Our pew is so
far back we oould not hear the sermon ; therefore the greatest satisfaction
-was in the prayers, which we knew. At a quarter to 4, drove out as far as
the cemetery, and took a view ofthe picturesque river Don, on whose bank
it IS situated. On our return about nine, who should appear but Jediah,
he having come round the head of the lake, on horse-back.
"llth, — Breakfasted at 8 this morning; our usual time 9. Went
with J., to Yorkville, to call upon Mr. Merritt's cousin from St. Johns.
"On the 12th, Frances and J., accompanied by Mrs. K., attended the
Governor's Ball.
" Mr. Merritt stopped here all day. In the afternoon our drive extend
ed to the king's wharf. Returning, took J.'s horse, which was fresh, and
dragged Mr. M. out. Fine sleighing on the Bay.
"The week was spent in -visits and drives.
" The cheerful company of Mr. S. Keefer, and his amiable lady, who
played exquisitely, with the visits of friends, made the -winter pass agreeably.
"The steamer crossed pretty regularly to Niagara."
18th, — ^The author started for home in a snow storm.
The same difficulty continued to induce the President of the Council
to leave his occupation in order to take the necessary exercise, and the
memoranda notes and tables of figures also show -with what industry he
pursued his absorbing measure of Retrenchment.
Mrs. Merritt's journal continues :
"We left the capital, -with its gaiety, on 25th March; and here people
ask how I like Toronto : my answer is, very well ; and why ? Because my
husband is there. StUl Mr. M. is entirely devoted to his public business,
and I must reconcile my-self to it as well as I can. Scribble, scribble,
all the time; I wonder he does not lose Ms senses.
"He says that he will bring about Retrenchment, or leave the Govern
ment. I don't know which I ought to wish for most.
" Thomas, who got home from England on the 28th, and our little family
are once more assembled, around our own fireside, anci my heart was filled
with gratitude to the giver of every blessing,
' "Mr. M., who had returned to Toronto the day after the 13th, retumed
to St. Catharines again and spent Sunday.
" 5th May, — Mr. M. home to attend his election, having resigned
his position as President of the Council. He spoke to the people for two
hours and a half, then returned to Toront. Next day Parliament opened."
Previous to the opemng of the House at Toronto, Mr. Merritt was called
upon to take the office of Commissioner of Public Works, a positioa wMch
was more suitable to his tastes and ideas than the one he held, as he now
was placed where he could urge and carry out measures of real benefit to
the country. He was re-elected by acclamation, and returned to his
duties in the Council.
We subjoin the following leading extracts from the speech of our sub-

372
ject on this occasion, to show his general views, on those really itrportant
questions, which in his estimation were of greater importance to tlie country,
than the many other trivial mattei-s which occupied the time of the ]top]e
and Parliament at this period.
" Gentlemen — There are few men more fortu)iate than myself in retain
ing the confidence of my friends, and the forbearance of my opponents.
This is the lift'i time you have honored me, by returning me as your mem
ber ; but this is the first time I have appealed to you as a Minister of the
Government. Hitherto the interest was local, but now eveiy man, from
CTaspe to Sandwich, feels an interest in the result of this election.
" It is not my intention, gentlemen, to attempt to conceal the present
state of public feeling. I was quite as well satisfied in my own mind, before
accepting office, that dissatisfaction prevailed as after the occurrences of lasnt
year had actually taken jdace. The cause of this discontent is not of recent
origin ; the seeds wi're planted before the pre.seut adiniiiistrati(jn came
into power. It is to be attributed to the Union Act of 1841, and the
change in the Colonial polity of Great Britain in 1846. The first did not
establish a sutjicient check on the expenditure of the jiublic money ; trans
ferring the power of originating money bills fiom individual membei-s of
Parliament to the Executive Council, has proved a failure. The public
debt has been increased, under the present system, to about £4,000,000.
Customs duties have btifn increased from -}, to 12J per cent, ad valortm
ou dry goods, and on otlier articles of consumption much higher. Excise
duties have been established, and internal taxes increased to the amount of
at least £500,000 per year, which, in addition to the debt contracted, has
also been expended (excejit for the ordinary expenses of the Government)
on unproductive works, and other objects yielding no return, leaving the
interest to be paid from Customs, thus keeping up high rates and diverting
trade into other channels.
"No Government in (Janada can retain the confidence of the countr}'^,
that does not effect a free interchange of produce and commodities. High
taxes and low prices cannot co-exist with contentment in this or any country.
The Anglo Saxon race would not listen to excuses; their constantly recur
ring cry will be, 'Why are we not as prosperous as our neighbours f To
this question the Government must give a practical and satisf-^ctory solution.
" From these remarks you will observe, that I have been prepared to
witness depres,sion and dissatisfaction. It was the inevitable efiects of the
policy and system pursued.. * * * ^< *
"Whatever differences of opinion may exist, as to the distribution ofthe
proceeds of the Clergy Reserve fund, your children will be indebted to the
foresight of the Lord Bishop of Toronto for its preservation. What would
have been the disposition of this fund, had it been placed under the control
of the Provincial Legislature ? Under our past and present systems, not
an acre would have been preserved. While other public men in this gene
ration, to whom the management of 35,000,000 of acres of land have been
entrusted, have a,llowed almost the entire capital to be squandered,
through the bishop's influence this portion of it has been preseived. I am well
.-iware of the state of public feeling on the subject of the distribution of the
ltcseiY(is, but I entertain no doubt thatthey, and all other measures under a

governmiut who have tha managemsnt of their own affairs, will be settled
ia aocoriance with tke views of a majority of the people ; but I maintain
that they are altogether a secondary consideration compared to other mat
ters which involve our future peace and ])rosperity.
" I have long been satisfied, that our Clergy Reserves, University, Col
lege and Common School Lands can be converted into capital "ample
i.jc the construction of a Railroad from one end of the province to the
other, and that too ou the same enlarged dimensions as our ship canals.
"Siiirnl K-33fer Esq., E.iginssr to the Boavcl of Works, hxs made a
statement on the increased Western trade, based on the number of tons
pa.3sing frour Lake Erie to tide water, througli the Erie Canal, which gives
aa actual iiiL-rease of 22 per cent, a ye-ar, commencing at 121,671 tons in
1838, and ending with 769,6.'iy in 1849.
" From surveys already made, it appears that a safe channel can be
eafectod in descending the river, by removing a few obstructions, without
passing a single canal, at a moderate expense, after which the St. Lawrence
will be the best and cheapest navigation known in the world, A vessel
will then pass down from Lake Ontario to Montreal, drawing ten feet' of
water, a distance of nearly two hundred miles, in twenty-four hours, and
return through the cuts or canals by slack water navigation. This will
restore the same natural advantages which you possessed before 1812, and
restore the same relative prospeiity you then enjoyed.
Another link of this great chain, is the connection of Lakes Huron and
Superior, 0!i the same dimensions. It requires but one look, and a short
canal, on the Sault Ste. Marie.
" Dee])aning Lake St, Peter — improving the Ottawa, aud connecting the
River St. John, New Brunswick, with the Madawaska.
" We liear of the unsxampled increase of canals, railroads, and other im
provements in the Far West — the high price of wages, and constant flow
of emigration. What is the cause ! What has brought the Ohio, Indiana
and Chicago Canals into operation at so early a day 1 and what at this mo
ment are the means employed in connecting the Wisconsin and Fox Rivers
to make a navigable communication from Prairie du Chien, on the Missis
sippi to Green Bay, on Lake Michigan. * Public lands gave the impetus,
-and within a few years has turned a wilderness into a thickly populated
country. * if: ¦* -if *
, " Although the elements which have produced dissatisfaction are be
yond the control of the present Administration, they will still be held
responsible. No Govemment, it matters not who the individuals are which
compose it, or from what party they are selected, can give satisfaction, un
less Canada is as prosperous as the country on the other side of the boun
dary. That is the test, and the only test in which public confidence will
be continued or withdrawn. If proof were required in support of this
statement, it is only necessary to refer to the late administration. They
¦were placed in power because the preceding one did not give satisfaction.
The present wei-e brought into power because the last were equally unsuc
cessful. The same fate awaits the present Ministry, as certainly as day
succeeds night, unless measures are adopted to secure our future prosperity.
It was for this object that I accepted the drudgery of office, and it is by
this test only that I shall claim your confidence in future.

374
" I confess, gentlemen, I had an object in view in accepting the sHwiji,-
tion. Having been one of the earliest advocates in connecting our great
inland waters with the ocean. I feel a strong interest in seeing them finished,.
on a scale commensurate -with their extent, at the earliest possible moment,
confident that their success will far exceed the expectations of the moet san
guine." The political position of our subject about this time, seems rather peculiar,
when it is remembered that what may be called strict party lines were draws
between the "ins'' and "outs." Still, politically speaking, we fail to find in
Mr. Merritt's career, as a legislator or public man, any act haviag for its
object the mere assistance of political views, for the advaucement of his friends;
on the contrary his ideas were exclusively national, and in whatever mauDer
he may have changed sides with his political associates, we think our readers can
arrive at no other conclusion than that the sole and only interest he had sn
view, was in endeavouring to raise his country, commercially to tbe same posi
tion as others who were rapidly progressing in things needful to a great nation
The opinion of aft elector, who was a frequent correspondent of our
subject, is here inserted.
" To the Editor of the St. Catharines Journal : — Sir, — Oh my returm
ft-om the election, I thought over Mr. Merritt's observations and proposi
tions, together with the announcement that a Commission of Enquiry on
the great question of Retrenchment would be formed as soon as Pailiailient
assembled, in which every salary would be brought under review. Wait a
bit ; we shall see whether anything more than the cheese parings and can
dle ends of office are intended; and uj)on analyzing his speech, this one mea
sure is all that at the present session is to be granted. The soundness of
Mr. M.'s views on the subject of the financial difficulty, the want of a mar
ket for Canada, which now stare our loan-mongers full in the face, few can
doubt , fewer still, the necessity of meeting the change from loans to th*
payment of the debt already accumulated. He also stated how this could
be accomplished. He has never dfcubted the resources of Canada, and were
his views to be acted upon, an approach, at least, to that harmony and pros
perity he described might be made ; yet the whole of the present discontent
would not be removed if Reciprocity was attained.
" Mr. Merritt proposes to pay off the debt with the Council revenues,
keeping on the import duties until 1866 to pay the interest, near one-half
the present amount of taxation, 16 years ahead ; yet to be free of debt, al
most any reasonable sacrifice must be made. This is not Free Trade ; not
that Free Trade is necessary to the colony, or the happiness of the in(iivid-
ual, and some doubt exists if his financial ability will be granted, with
zeal to carry out his views, as every year will increase the demand for
assistance on public works."
We add, to show the strange and erroneous views held by the ReforxioeFS
of that day about municipal economy and choice of representation : —
" For the doubtful principle of carrying on public buildings and publie
works by loans to be repaid with interest, instead of wMch, each locality?
where money is likely to be wanted, may increase their rate two or thp«c

373
years before the work is begun ; they will thus have a fund of their owe,
-without interest; and was every township in the province to raise a small
surpMs fund, to be invested and secured in the Provincial accumulated
stock, proposed by Mr. M., there would then be a live eipital producing
interest (instead of a loan bearing interest,) to the investing locality, and
an accumulating fund to exist to carry out any improvement in the locality
wMeh may be thought necessary, as it would be at all times available, with
proper notice to the Provincial Bank of issue.
After a long vacation the House opened on tke 14th May. Few
measures of importance were promised in the speech, but the country wsis
congratulated on its prosperous state, and the high position of its credit
abroad. Our subject moved for a Retrenchment Committee to examima
into all the expenses of the country, Ac, that the people might see hirw
the public money was spent. On the 6th of Juno the House adjourned, so
that the Govemor and Members of Parliameat could visit the Welland
Canal, wMch had now been fully completed. On the 7th they came aeron*
the lake in the Steamer Chief Justice Rohinson^ On arriving at St. Cath
arines, they were presented with an address. They proceeded to Thorold
in carriages, and then took the Steamer Britania for the rest of the w»y-.
The day was a delightful one, a glorious sunshine lending a charm to the
trip which all seemed to enjoy so well. An abundance of refreshments w»re
on board, wMch it is needless to say were well attended to. At Merrittsvill*
a sumptuous dinner was prepared an^ partaken of, and to say that full jus
tice was done to the noble spread wonld be superfluous. Here the Gover
nor left them and went to the Palls.
The rest of the party proceeded to Gravelly Bay, where, in consqueiusa
of insufficient hotel accommodation for such a large company, they encamped
for the night, and( amused themselves with songs, jokes, and boisterous mer
riment, stimulated occasionally by copious libations, so that many were
determined not to " go home till moming."
At 7 A. M. they embarked for Buflalo, where they were publicly
received by the Mayor and citizens, who treated them -with unbounded hos
pitality. They retumed to Toronto on Monday, delighted with their trip.
It was remarked that this excursion tended very materially to haroionizw
the feelings existing between the members from Upper and Lower Qaiiin-
da, afterwards too soon to be disturbed.
The following is from the Journal ot 15th August : —
" The Hon W. H. Merritt left yesterday for Montreal. We wish him a
pleasant journey, and a safe return. His office is certainly no sinecure.
" The people place unbounded confidence in him, and seem sometimes to
think that if there is a grievance, 'tis be must remove it. That if the depression
under which trade and commerce lay, be displaced by activity and prosperity, Mr.
M. mustsiDgle handed accomplish it ; that even the "Law's delay" must be huit
ried into the activity of speedy jusiiee, by this member of the CoBncil.

376
'! To every complaint the President kino.v lends au ear, and sits 'hke
I^jtienoe on a monument smiling at Grief Canada ha^ an honest and able
statesman in the Hon. W. H. Merritt,"
The first of Autumn, Mr. Merritt prepared to visit the public works. His
first direction was River Trent.
The western and St. Lawrence improvements were familiar to him from
the frequency of his visits, but this northern territory was entirely new ground.
Left Toronto Tuesday, 3rd Sept., in the mail line " City of Toronto," captain
Tewcy. Landed at Fort Hope at 7 o'clock. Here retiring to Ms apart
ment, as was hi.^ custom, (and leaving dircctinns for Mr. James McGibbon,
the Superintendant of the Governmont road to Rios Lake, to have all
ready for visiting in the morning.) He closed himself in his room and com
menced his business by inditing letters of enquiry to Bouchette, De-witt and Co.,
Montreal, Mr. Methot and Capt. Bayfield, Quebec, noticing his intended visit, re
questing them to communicate with the officers, and be prepared to give him
information on various subjects connected with the St. Lawrence improvements.
He was at work again before.breakfast, which he had barely finished when Mr.
McGibbon drove up. He was highly pleased with the appearance of Port
'Hope, and the signs of prosperity in this thriving li'.tle port, (all produced by
the outlay of Government funds,) in the building of a commodious pier, and con
necting it, by improvements, with the back country,
A note iu Mr. M's memo, says: — " Had I known the position of this har
bour, the corporation would have paid more mo.iey for it."
Mr. Merritt and Mr. McGibbon reached Bewley's landing in time for the
steamer on which Mr, M. took passage to Peterboro', where he remained the
rest of the day, listening to and esaniining claims for damage on account
of public improvements. This and the next day until five o'clock, he remained
at Peterboro'. Leaving at 5, on his way to Belleville, lodged at Posset's
Tavern, near Cambleton, reaching t'ne Lake again at dinner time, by Kean's.
He gained Crook's Rapids by 7 o'clock, P. M,, noted "that this was over a
bid road."
Saturday, Sept. 7th, — Here, taking a horse, rode to "Healey's Falls,''
ten miles, Parmon's Bridge three miles, Mud Falls four, and back again to
Healeys Falls, sleeping at Mr, Ranney's, superintendant of the navigation at
Like Scugog.
Sunday, 8tli,— Started after breakfast, in a light one horse wagon, driven by
his host. Passed Chisholm's Dam, then to Frankfort, on Cold Water Creek
six miles. Arrived at Belleville at midnight, a distance of 17 miles.
Monday, ',Hh, — Left Belleville in steamer, passed the Bay of Quinte, and
arrived at Kingston at 2 o'clock. As this is a port to which letters had been
directed, one received from Thomas Keefer determined Mr. M.'s direction.
Mr. Merritt's Journal, adds :

377
"Took the States steamer Ontario to Ogddnsburgh, accompanied by the
gentlemanly contractor, Mr, Calvin. Saw the store houses, kc , of the Ogdens-
burph Railway.
Took the steamer Highlander, passing through the Long Sault, stopping
at Coteau, where a boat had been prepared to pass through the rapids. Captain
Maxwell and Thomas Keefer accompanied. Examined Split Rock and Prison
Island, Neither are formidable obstructions. Thus it appears that this noble
•river has already opened a channel of sufficient depth to admit the passage of a
veessl drawing at least eight feet of water from Lake Ontario to tide water.
""The States steamer picked us up in Lake St. Louis, landing us in Mont
real in the evening. Left the applications for mill sites cfec. for Mr, Ki?efer
to in'vestigate. "Thursday, 12th, — Visited the Lachine Canal with Mr. Bourit.
" Friday, "l3th, Visited Chambly Canal with Mr. Bowen.
"Saturday, 14th, — Examined mill sites, paying a visit to Major Camp
bell, and examined his model farm,
" Embarked on board the Montreal for Quebec where I arrived at 1 1
o'clock. Attended Evening Service 3.30, Was visited by Mr. Methot, Cau-
ehon Lemieux and Ross, with Treasurer of the Trinity Board.
"Monday, 10th, — Entered fuHy into the subject of the decline of trade
through the St. Lawrence, in a number of queries submitted to the Trinity
Board and othei-s. The papers for consideration were Lord Stanley 's desjmtch,
15th March '43 ; letters from the Admiralty, Capt, Boxer, 8tli Sept. 1843,
And 18th July, 1842; relative to Imperial revenue on the St. Lawrence,
Mr. Wilson M. P., 8th and 16th of January, IrtSO; remark on St. Andrews
Railway, Capt. Bent R. E., 1850 ; on the improvement of St, Johns River,
Rev. C. Churchill's remarks.
" Sept. 17tli, — Sailed with Capt Boxer to visit Gilmore's shipyard at 9
o'clock. On Tuesday had an interview with Trinity Board, at 11, and
Board of Trade at 2 o'clock P. M. With Mr. Gilmore again over his estab
lishment at 3 P. M., said to be the largest private ship building establish
ment in the world.
"Wednesday, 18th September, — Spent the day in taking opinions on
,ths subject of improving the St. Lawrence below Quebec.
"Find, that out of two hundred and forty eight vessels of this firm,
of 340,597 tons in eleven years, from '39 to '49, ouly two were lost, the
Ca/rUon and Pekin at Mauicougan Shoals, and Fox River.
"Visited Mr. Scott's premises at Cap Rouge, i)a,ssiiig one jtike and back
another. Conversed with several gentlemen on necessary imjuovements.
" 20th, — Embarked on board the steamer Doris, belonging to the Trin
ity Board."After examining Mr. Patton 's yard and mills, embarking in his boat.
Visited thus far, St. Michaels, five leagues below Quebec, Berthier, St.
Thomas outlet of South Rivor, with Mr. Patton, Senior. Went on shore at
L*islet, anchored off the Pillars. Each of these places require long piers.
"Saturday, 21st — With Boxer, Keefer and Methot, examined L'original,
and received an address, while Mr. Methot examined Kamouraska. Ar
rived at Riviere Du Loupe, 119 miles below Quebec, about seven o'clock.
.Met by Mr. Jones, the Mayor, who presented an address — Much enthusiasm.
''Sept. 22nd, — We were anchored off Riviere du Loupe, opposite tl^a

378
Brandy Pots, where I landetl in 1809, from the Biig Lord Sftsffi^ld, forty-one
years since : Many changes since then, and many more must take place in a
like number of years to come. Was shown the Falls at Riviere du Loupe, and
the height of land beyond. It is only sixteen miles across to the St. Charles
River. Mr. WUmct, whom we met coming down, mentioned that he had
seen a boat there, which plied to the St. John River Falls. The exami
nation gives a most favourable indication of this route. The distance on
the Temiscouta route, thirty-six miles, Madawaska, thirty-seven ; in all, to
the boundary of Canada, seventy three. Hence to Great Falls, thirty-four,
Woodstock, twenty. From Woodstock to St. Andrews, eight ; entire dis
tance, two hundred and eleven miles, whereas Major Hewal in 1836, made
it only two hundred and sixty to Quebec. Wrote Thomas Keefer to come
and survey this route, and to the President at St. Andrews, and others, oa
this communicjation.
" Got under way at eleven o'clock, steered over for the mouth of the
Saguenaf , and left the St. Lawrence for the present to examine that river.
Passed the Trinity, a mountain 1800 feet high, St. Louis Island, and anchor
ed at Grand Bay, 69 miles up.
" Monday, 23rd, — This is a most singular and interesting river, for the
boldness of its scenery; but its advantages must be confined to lumber. It
-will hardly, afford grain enough to supply the lumbering population."
" Noticed several loads of hay going to the Prices' establishment, who
were then shipping lumber to New York.
" 24th, — Left the Saguenay and anchored ofi" the landing below, in a fog^
" 25th, — Landed at Green Island, saw a States ship loading deals. The
captain working in her hold, who said he found no difficulty in piloting
himself. He thinks fifteen days an average passage to Boston.
"Run down three miles, with Mr. Barry, to his mills, pointed out the
line surveyed for the railroad along the bank of the St. Lawrence.
" Mr. Bertrand, seignieur presented an address. Went over a good road
in tandem to Trois Pistoles. Arrived at dark and slept at Mr. Titus'.
" Saw an intelligent lumberman, who was for many years, employed ia
running logs,
" River Pistoles takes its rise within a few hundred feet of a lake that
flows into Lake Temiscouta ; Here a small ditch is cut, and logs from the
St, Johns River float into the St. Lawrence.
" 26th, — Went off in the morning with a pilot boat to our steamer.
Got under way, and anchored off Bamaby Island about noon. Sent a boat
on shore which brought off Dr. Tache M. P. for Rimouski. Got under
way again, and ran down off Metis.
" The Kempt road leads from Point Aux Senelles near River Metis to
Restigouche on Bay of Chaleurs, about 40 leagues.
" The road from Metis to Matan about twenty-five miles on the coast,
is designed to promote settlement. No road below Matan. A few settler*
on the coast, below To-wnship of St. Denis, only one settlement.
" The road leads back into the cwuntry from River du Loupe to Metis.
No tavern from River du Loupe to Rimouski. The number of traveller*
about seven hundred in one year.
" Matan River — Capt. B.iyfield i-emarks, — 'This is a fine river, 33 mile*
W. J 8. from Cape Chatte. Reportetl to have its source in a lake of congi-

379
derable dimensions, ahout sixty mUes distant. Depth of water over bar,
four feet at low, and fifteen feet at high tide, channel narrow, bar shifts.
Inside of the bar, extreme between two points, thirty fathoms wide, is a.
useful place for coasting vessels. They ground at J tide on a mud bottom,
anchorage in 5 fathoms J a mile off.
" Landed at this place. The Seignior, Mr. Frazier, has a small grist
mill, and a lumbering establishment of Messrs. Lemisurier; forms the busi
ness of the place.
"Friday, 27th, — At about 3 o'clock P. M. got under way, with a favour
able wind and tide, «n our return, quite satisfied that no harbour of refuge
can be made at any expense which the trade can bear or sustain. Also well
Mtisfied that no harbour is needed for the safety of any vessel large or small.
The neglect of sounding alone causes the numerous wrecks on this coast.
Cape or Point Des Montes on the north shore is the point which vessel*
should make in or out.
" Trinity Bay 6J miles below this point forms a safe harbour from wes
terly winds, and St. Augustine Cove 1 j miles above, forms a safe harbor for
coasting vessels drawing ten feet of water, from easterly ¦winds.
" Although on« week has been occupied since leaving Quebec ; it h&t
been time well spent, as far as my judgment is concerned.
" Little Metis Bay, 23 miles, is open to eastward, and small vessels can
anchor in the stream at three fathoms in low water.
" Grand Metis, five miles, safe anchorage outside until October, good
all along this coast.
" 28th, — Left Dr. Tache, Keefer and Commodore Boxer. Sounded har
bour at Bamaby Island.
"29th, Sunday — River du Loupe, to north shore. Anchored off Mai Bay.
" 30th,— Reached Isle of Coudre at 3:45.
" 1st October, — Got underway and arrived at Gross Island at 7.
" 2nd, — Visited Quarantine establishment there.
" 3rd, Thursday, — Arrived at Quebec, letter from Tiffany, from W»*ii-
uigton. Was not aware of his having left.
" 4th, — Busily occupied in obtaining information on various points.
"5th, — Unwell all day. Left Quebec at 6. In 12 hours to MontreaL
" 6th, — .Better late in the evening.
" 7th, — Montreal — Met directors of St. Johns RaUroad.
" 8th, — Examined lease holders. Want list of rents left with HincJKii,
" 9th, Wednesday, — Left in the maming at 7:30 for Ottawa.
" 10th, — Investigated tolls, collectors, and slide tenders.
" llth,— Visited Chats Slide with Mr. Lyon, M. P.
" 12th, — Returning, passed the Grenville Canal and St. Anns Lock.
"13th, Sunday, — Montreal — Heard Mr. Adamson.
" 14th and 15th, — Examined Lachine Canal.
" 16th, — -To Beauharnois. 1 7th, — Dickinson's Landing.
; " 18th,— Farrell's Point, Matilda. 19th,— Left. 20th,— At Com wall.
22nd— At Dickinson's Landing again. 23 and 24th, — Chambly. 35th, —
To Montreal on board freight boat. 26th,— Ogdensburgh. 27th, — A gale.
28th,— Rochester. 29th,— St. Catharines, via Bridge. 30th,— Toronto.
Slst, — Council met. Nov. lst, — To St. Catharines. 4th, — Business of
Canal with Mr. Killaly. 1 Ith^ — ^Toronto, and finished two repoi-tg.

380
Mr. Merritt's report, and that of his a-ssistant engineers, and others
connected with him, contained in the Appendix to Journal of 1851, con-
.sisting of 80 jiages, are a history of the improvements of the water com
munications of the country, up to a date when railroads appear to have
.succeeded in popular favor all other modes of comniunication. The follow-
¦'ing extracts are the concluding portions of the leport :
" Firstly, — The removal of every bar in the River St. Lawrence.
'• Secondly, — The construction of two Tug-boats of the best and most
powerful description, similar to those now in operation on the Mersey, or
on the latest improved plan, to cost, say £25,00(1. This outlay will enable
vessels to make an additional number of trips, lessen the price of freight,
rate of insurance, and thereby dra\\- a greater quantity of produce through
this channel, yield a larger amount of levpime, and amply repay this expen
diture. One half the annual expenses, it is presumed, will be jjaid by ves
sels for towage, the other half from the saving in management of Lights,
Pilots, (fee.
"Thirdlji, — The construction of Pieis and Landing Whai-fs.
" Second Branch. — In this is comprehended all those causes which
operate at present, to render the cost of freight from New York to Europe,
so much lower than from Montreal. A bai-rel of flour from Lake Erie, can
))e delivered at Montreal one shilling less than at the poi-t of New York ,
but from Montreal to Liverpool, the freiglit is three shilling.s and ninepence,
Against one shilling and threepence from New York, leaving one shilling
and sixpence per barrel in favor of the latter. This on a cargo of 5000 bar
rels, is equal to £:575 for the trip, which the Vessel for New York must-
I'eceive on her return cargo, or this diffarenoe in price batween the two
ports could not exist. Although it is understood that the entire cost from
Quebec falls on tbe outward trip, no satisfactory reason has been assigned
why this return freight should be necessarily directed to New York.
This report is thus noticed by Mr. .Joseph B,juret his successor iu office :
" These papcis have been collected and prepared by Mr. Merritt, indi
vidually. The subjects of which they treat are various, and involve the
Mghest interests of the country ; and the adoption of the projects recom
mended in them would create a necessity of adding largely to the existing
debt. Finally, the whole time of the office, since these documents have
been transmitted to it, has been occupied in attending to the arbitrations
on unsettled chiims against the Department, and to the preparation of the
several Statements and Returns required fur the Legislature. Under such
circumstances it cannot be supposed that the present Comniissioners have
had that full opportunity of investigating and considering the several sub
jects, which they should have, before they would be justified iu making any
final official recommendation thereon ; and their disinclination to do so, is
further increased, by finding the opinions and information derived from the
V arious sources, and embodied in the documents on which the conclusions
ai-rived at in the reports are based, to be in many case.s wholly irreconcila
ble with each other. A considerable portion of the matter introduced, hav
iag reference more immediately to financial affairs, and such as involve the
general commercial and inter-provincial policy of the country, is, in the
opinion of the Commissioners, out of the scope of their duties."

3?1
Wc have seen that the Welland Canal enlargement was no sooner in a safe
way towards completion, than our subject turned his attention to those of tho
St, Lawrence, and during their completion we find him making war on the
carrying monopoly, for their exorbitant charges. A monopoly which we have
seen, was defended by Mr, Hincks while editor in Montreal, and others in that
sity and places adjacent.
The same spirit was displayed in Ms ideas on the Tow-boat and Barge
system, partially adopted by the Government to expedite the traffic on Cana
dian waters, but his scheme in this particular reached far beyond our ordinary
conceptions ; in fact, it extended to the uttermost points of the St. Lawrence.
Reasoning from the national stand point that the people of Canada were enti
tled to all favour they could fairly gain over any rivals. He conceived that
the closer to Europe our carrying trade was extended, the more profits woijld
accrue to our people engaged in it, from the fact that grain &c which was then,
and is now delivered in Montreal for shipment, might as well be brought on to
depots established on the Gulf of St. Lawrence, whose waters could be as safely
traversed by light craft, and tow-boats as any of the great lakes, and the profits
which have enriched European shipowners for the extra two thousand miles
of inland navigation could be safely made by ourselves, creating at the same
time, an extra demand for men, vessels and machinery, which could be sup
plied at home, instead of going into the pockets of those, who, although pre
pared to draw ample subsidies from the Canadian people, have scarcely a native
or adopted Canadian employed on t^eir vessels. Hence we think that his coa
lescing with the party now in power was more for the purpose of assist
ing in developing the ample resources of the country, and endeavouring to
shape its wants to the altered requirements of the times than for any simple
party motives.
While Mr. M. was engaged in the Lower St. Lawrence, opposition was
commenced in the Reform ranks, to account for which we notice an occur
ence which transpired in the House before his departure.
It appears to have been the fate of this Parliament to be assaulted by
mobs - in Montreal, being deprived of their Legislative Hall; in Toronto, it
was a combined force of newspaper reporters and editors, who disturbed the
august assembly, claiming the right of accommodation in the same hall.
Petition to House of Parliament : —
" That inasmuch as the whole people of the Province cannot be person
ally present at such proceedings of your honorable House, it is the opinion
of the undersigned, that the reportera of the press, in addition to their right
to be admitted as a portion of the public, ought also to be provided with
suitable accommodation, so as to be enabled to make known the proceedings
of your Honorable House ; and ought furthermore to be protectjod from such
annoyance as may prevent or impede the publication of your proceed
ings."

882
This was signed by both the Messrs. Bro-wn, and several of the reporter*
oa the Globe staff and others of the printers craft in Toronto.
" Col. Gugy undertook the defence of the privileges of Parliament by
giving notice of a motion in the Legislative Assembly, yesterday evening,
to the effect that measures be taken for the condign punishment of those
reporters who shall not give correct and impartial reports of the proceedings
of the House.
We have noticed the assumption of some editors to represent their own
views, as those of the public. There was but one other step to assuming
-the power to carry out those views.
The following are the grounds as enunciated by the Journal, and very
soon acted on by the Globe : —
" We have been amused by the ridiculous arguments which we have lately
heard urged in defence of the privilege of Parliament as exercised in referenc*
to the Press. " For instance the Press is divided, how therefore can it repre
sent the people." — The man who uses this argument, forgets that it applies
with just ts much force to the members of the House as it does to the Press,
Again, it is asked "when did the people choose the Press to represent them?"
We answer, ever since the people possessed a Press, it has been their Repre
sentative. In all the struggles of power against right, it has represented them ;
aye, and in many instances successfully too. If the objecter means that the
formalities of choosing representatives have not been performed ; we agree
with him, because such formalities are ouly necessary in places where a virtual
aad a natural connexion do not exist ; but between the Press this virtual and
natural connexion always exists, and no formalities are required to give forot
to it. " An antagonism has evidently ensued between the Globe and the Hon.
W. H. Merritt, on the subject of retrenchment. The minister would regulate
our revenue from customs by public opinion. The organ seems to doubt the
character of the arbitrator. Now, whether public opinion would or would not
regulate the matter between the smuggler and the revenue department, the
parties being in opposition and having different interests. We will not say;
but of this we are quite certain, that when ever public opinion is appealed to,
as to whether we shall raise a revenue from customs, or meet that portion of
' the ways and means' by direct taxation, public opinion will now be heard to
give a preference to the latter. It only requires that public opinion be taken'
on the subject, and badly as the people may be informed in the science of
political economy, it will soon be pronounced in favour of the cheapest and
most honest way ever a revenue was raised."
We quote the following from the St. Catharines Journal, Examiner
&c., to show that being committed by his speech to his constituents to remaia,
only in the Government as long as he could be of service to his country, on
the score of meeting their obligations, and all the measures being 'under satis
factory progress, and an equal understanding among his colleagues having been
established on all questions save retrenchment (to this, viz :) on the unnecessary
extravagance of the Government, the advanced wing of the reform party insist
ed on his making attack, led by the editors. '

38S
Pfom the Examiner, Aug. 16 : —
" The Hon. W. H. Merritt and tho Globe.—The Globe, the organ of the
©OTemment, attacks, with unaccountable and unjustifiable bitterness, the re-
<renohment scheme of Mr. Merritt, one of the members of the Government
" We say that we cannot account for this violent attack upon Mr. Merritt,
nolesa the Globe be the organ of Mr. Hincks and the other enemies of retrench
ment in the Government, and perhaps also to weaken Mr. Merritt's influence
before he may retire from aa administration which basset itself against public
©pinion." Sept. 19.
"The more we examine the propositions of the Hon, W. H. Merritt, as
submitted to the committee of retrenchment, the more deeply are we convinced
that they contain the principles which our policy must embrace, in order to
wake Canada what God and nature intended she should be. The rednotioo
ef customs duty, preparative to its entire removal, is one of Mr. Merritt's
jiriuoiples . To this he pledged himself before his constituents, and when they
come to read his evidence submitted to the Committee of Retrenchment, they
will find that he has faithfully and honestly kept his promise."
The evils of what is called Responsible Government seemed at this time
to be felt sufficiently by a portion of the people to create a murmur, loud
codugh to attract the attention of the Press. It would appear that there
were many who thought that the question of responsibility tended more to
create two parties,, both under the influence of the parent state, than to devel
ope Canada ; in fact that English interests alone occupy the attention of
the politicians and would-be office holders, who were rapidly filling the country
and driving out those whose feelings lay here.
Under the circumstances, it is not surprising that these articles should
appear in the Journal, Examiner, Globe, &c.
The following are the remarks in tlie Journal, referred to :
" That the patronage of any men conducting the Government of Canada
should be bestowed within a narrow confined circle, excluding therefrom mca
cither English, Irish pr Scotch, because of the accident of birth, is an outra
geous violation of justice, and a gross insult offered to community. In a Bri
tish colony, no man is entitled to any patronage over his fellow citizens, mere
ly because he happens to be born in the country.
" It has acted as an incubus on the country, and has been made the instru
ment of foisting on the country, men devoid of every proper qualification for
the offices they were pitchforked into. "
Such language can be best understood when we remember that it has
resulted in driving out of the country the bulk of our young men, and fas
tening a multiplicity of offices, of every conceivable sort, like barnacles on
the colony. The same results might have lately occurred in Manitoba, had not
Reil's incipient rebelfeon brought legislators to their senses, and gave rise to
"'/better terms'' for the metis. An Americanism known as " Carpet Bagger,''
fitly applies to the authors of such ideas.

384
This was just the reverse of our subject's policy. Being a careful reaider
of Adam Smith, he believed the wealth of tho nations only to consist in re
munerative undertakings, and these were known only to those who had
long resided in the country, :
Innovation took the place of reform, and less action, but more activity
prevailed. The loss of the militia oi-ganiz^tion has hardly been made up
by the expensive vohuiteer systerii. The exi.antion of monopolies — the
multiplication of " rings."
In the heat of oontroveisy some facts are disciosed by each of the parties
concerning the other that under a less degree of political pressure passed
over in silence. The evils attending (_'o!onial government at all times are-
here (.Journal, April 2ti) given prominence.
" The Montreal Gazetti; makes a loud outcry against tJie 'divide .and gov
ern' principle, upon which Lord John Russell is accused of trying to 'swamp'
Canadian interests. We are much pleased to see the Tory press at last-
come out in opposition to this Machiavelian pr.octice, by which governments
have certainly inflicted the greatest amount of political evils.
The Gazette to be consistent should come out .agviinst tlie Orange Society,
an exotic found to be unconstitutional even in the climate where it origina
ted. "One of our cotemporaries last week classifies the St. Catharines J"o«r/ia/
as ' Ministerial' and as ' in the interest of Mr. Merritt.' This is not so. Our
course is an independant one, and our motto is — our party for the country,
and not our country for our party. The Journal is not in the interest of Mr.
Merritt in any sense of the word ; it is in the interest of the country, and
will always be found advocating the real interests of Canada, perfectly irrespec
tive of men . It is true we have and do advocate the policy well known as Mr.
Merritt's ; but we do so not because it is Mr. Merritt's, but because we believe
it to be the only policy that can make Canada prosperous.
" Before we had the honor of a personal acquaintance with Mr. Merritt,
and before we knew what his policy was, we, under the cognomen of ' Junius'
put forth the principles embraced in what is called Mr. Merritt's policy. At
that time we had not .so much as seen or read Mr. Merritt's view.
' ' We feel, however, no small degree of pleasure in finding that those views
are the views of a man so perfectly honest and patriotic ; A man prepared,
at any moment, to re-sign his high and honourable position, when he has rea- '
son to think that he can best serve his country by retirement.
" We look now for a bold decisive policy, at the hands of the men in office.
It is true by such a course there is a risk in the tenure of office, but this is a
small evil, compared with the advantages which the country must derive from
such a course."
The warning given by our subject in the spring of '46 regarding the injury
cf the change of the imperial policy was not matured, and consequently was
not felt till two years after, in '48, as already related.
The movement to bring back the colonial system was not general, and did
not reach the body of the people through the press ; and when it was taken up
it was under our system, by the Tory or opposition, and plaeed our subjeat, a

385
member of the Government, now in the anomalous position of being defender
ef Imperial acts. When the crisis was passed, he was allowed to step down
from being President to Chief Commissioner, and then retire from the Ministry-
The Provincialist says, on tbe financial subject that took the President
ef the Council to the United States, Inspector General Hincks was sent to
England to borrow money.
" When the present Government came into power, they found a heavy
debt, a great many most pressing demands, an empty treasury, no system,
and the whole of our fiscal affairs in the most chaotic confusion. Besides
which the public works on the St. Lawrence were in an unfinished state ;
a sum of about $300,000 required to complete them, and put them in a con
dition to be passable. The late Inspector General had made a fruitless jour
ney to England in the expectation of effecting a loan. Thus expired the onh'
hope of the late Govemment to relieve the finances of the country, and to
sustain the public credit. The province was without doubt on the brink of
bankruptcy." Joui-nal, Dec. 26.
"Resignation of the Hon. W. H. Merritt. — We see it stated in tie
different Toronto papers, that the member for this county has resigned his
situation in the Government ; but yet that he will continue to discharge
the departmental duties of his office, until certain important affairs con
nected with the Board of Works be disposed of. The Globe alleges the cause
to have arisen out of the Hon. gentleman's 'financial schemes.' It may
be so ; but we think it unlikely. In every part of the country, the activity
in every pursuit and calling — The enhanced value of every description of
property  the ease with which money can be obtained for all legitimate
purposes, are too well understood by the people to admit any second opinion
amonff them as to the importance of the minister retaining his position."
" That the public will be aware of all the facts of the case before the ensu
ing meeting of the Legislature, ilr. M. is now here but will return to To
ronto next week."
The report of the Chief Commissioner did not meet the views of his
Lower Canadian associates, any more than did his retrenchment scheme,
the English, as the following letters .show : —
"Friday Morning, 13th Dec.
" My Dear Sir, — I regret not yet having received your answer to Ccjl.
Tache's observations upon the unfair and unjust classification of certain
public works and the public expenditure relating thereto, as made by Mr.
Keefer and embodied in your report lately presented.
" When the subject was last week under consideration, you promised
to give an early answer.
" Will you be kind enough to. furnish me with it for to-day s meeting.
" Truly yours,
"Hon. W. H. Merritt." " L, H. LAFONTAINE."
" RisiousKi, 28th December, 1850,
" My Dear Sir,— I forward you to-day my promised report, with the
-hope that it wUl please you, and give any information necessary. My re-
y

port is in French, and by applying to Mr. Lindsay, Jun., Clerk of the Assem
bly, and to Mr. Hinsworth, one of the clerks of the Executive Council, you
can o-et, in two or three days, a beautiful, (at all events as much as the
French will permit) translation of the whole docuniient.
"Of course, I expect that this report will be published annexed to your
own report ; not from a desire to make myself conspicuous before the pub- .
lie, but from a deep desire to do good to our important but abandoned part
of the country.
"If you have no objection, I will send to the press, a part of my statis
tics, but if you think that such a thing is anticipated, or calculated to ren
der your report less interesting, being not so new afterwards, I will aban
don this idea given to me by friends. I will expect your answer. If Mr.
Thomas Keefer is in Toronto, will you be kind enough to tell him that I
will answer his letter in a few days ; I am so occupied that I have had no
time to make the large skeleton map of the south shore that I promised to
him. " ]My respects to friends. With esteem I remain, " Truly yours,
"J. C. TACHE."
This letter did not arrive till two months after.
On Mr. Merritt's resignation, the St. Catharines Journal, 2nd January,
1851, says : —
" If Mr. Merritt bad good reasons for retiring, they will keep them till the-
House meets, and be given to the country in accordance with ministerial and
parliamentary etiquttee; we are perfectly satisfied the cause will be justified
by our brethren of the press.
"The statement is that of a comprehensive mind occupied with measures,
as he thinks, fraught with advantages for this country.
" But yet in their application surrounded with difficulties, is not in a
mood to create capital by either finding fault with opponents or justifying
every step he may think right in promoting his views."
The reason of Mr. Merritt's resignation was the action of the Govem
ment on the report of the financial committee, passed 20th Decdmber, pub
lished 27th May after.
His measure for economy was not such as to produce a great degree of en
thusiasm among the people, and when tbe leaders shewed other and more
dazzling schemes for immediate profit, his measure was refused, and he allowed
to retire from any longer participating in the progress of affairs.
Such is the prospect of the conscientious public man in a colony ; retire
ment is the o'.ily positicn for one who tries to reconcile loyalty to his sovereign
and the people.
" Monday, December 23rd. — Mr. Merritt and Mr. Keefei- started from
Toronto in a snow storm ; the roads almost impassable from snow drifts. Mr.
Merritt's servant left St. Catharines, to meet him on the way, at which
place they arrived next day at four o'clock.
" Thos. Merritt was absent at Washington, and not home at the Christ
mas gathering,"

1851.
" New- Year's Eve. was the occasion of a serenade. Mr. and Mrs. Mer
ritt staj-ted for the capital by Hamilton, 2nd January."
The name of W. H. M., Jun., appears for the first time among the conu-
cillors of this year. His father writes on the subject : —
[private.] "Toronto, Monday, 13th.
" My Dear Son, — I think that your Ma and myself will leave this on
Friday next. I see by the .Journal that you have commenced your public
career ; although in an humble capacity, it is a step, and if your mind
inclines to leading a public life for the benefit of your fellow men, you ought
to be well qualified for the duty ; but you will find it no sinecure, no easy
berth, and can only be attaiiie(l by unremitting industry and attention, by
avoiding all sarcasm and offence, by unremitting attention and a kind word
to all, friends and opponents. You must also spend 3rour evenings and
most of your time in studying the constitution, laws and Parliamentary
usages of Great Bi-itain and the United States, as well as all proceedings
relating to our public improvements and works ; and leave all conversa
tion on the subject of eating and drinking- to those who have no p-irticular
object in view. If you make up your mind to adopt this course, I have
sufficient confidence in your judgment and perseverance to believe you will
make a useful and prominent public man. If, on the contrary, you think
it will occupy too much of your time, or deprive you of that independence
of thought and action, which all public men will be subject to more or less,
and those social opportunities of the conviviality which you appear to enjoy;
do not commence it or attempt it beyond a temporary locality.
" Reflect upon it and make up your mind to the course you ((refer, as my
movements will be guided in a great measure by your decision in continuiiijf
or retiring from public life.
" In the meantime as you have undertaken the duty, I wonld give un
remitting attention to it, and make yourself master of the state of the
flnances of the Town at once. " Your affectionate Father,
" W, H. MERRITT.-"
We extract from the Jourrud in reference to this matter :
" Mr. M., like thousands in England, has adopted the legal profession
as a gentlemanly one, but does not and never has practiced. We entertain
a Mgh opinion of his talents, natural and acquired ; but it is not to be sup
posed for a moment that a gentleman out of practice, and whose fortune is
such as to preclude the necessity of his ever practicing, will keep up Ms legal
reading so as to enable him at "all times to explain the bearing of every act
and every section of an act, that he is under no necessity of knowing."
A ball was given in the Town Hall, on the occasion of its completion,
on the 5th February. It was got up on a scale of magnificence, the music
being procured in Niagara ; an occurrence unprecedented, and to which the

388
opposition to the Council elect found umbrage. However, the affair, which
was patronized by many from a distance, was highly spoken of; and, with
the other improvements for the accommodation of the travelling public,
made St, Catharines to be regarded as a place of pleasurable resort.
The Hall, which has since been the scene of the greatest variety of
exhibitions, was occupied for a tea-meeting a week after the ball, was
attended, among others, by Rev. E. Ryerson, Jr., Hon, J. G, Currie, and
the author, affording to the large and appreciative assenibly as much amuse
ment as the ball.
The month after, Wm. H. Merritt, Jun., on his entering into tho local
interests of his native to-wn, invited a number of the Council and his fellow-
townsmen, to a dinner party at the family residence, among whom were
Messrs. Killaly, McGivern, Miller, Whan, Taylor, etc.
Being now done with the trammels of ofiice, cmr subject was at liberty
to devote more attention to his private affairs, still the interest was una
bated. The following is inserted to show that the subject of Reciprocity occu
pied him, and that he had a zeal for its passing equally as if he was still a
jnember of the Govemment. "Washington, 6th February, 1851.
My Dear Sir, — I have been reproaching myself for the last two months
¦with not having soonei- answered your letter. One thing I cannot reproach
myself with, viz., not having seen your son, since he left no address when
he called upon me, and all my exertions to find him out were in \ain.
"1 do not quite agree in some of the views expressed in your letter',
but it is of no use arguing these points at such a distance, and bj' letter.
" I hope your measure will be carried, but I think it is somewhat doubt
ful. The interests of your colony will at all times be a matter of great
consideration with me, and I shall be very happy to see or hear from you ;
in the meantime believe me, " My dear sir, 3'ours verv truly,
" W. Hajiilton Merritt." " " H." I. BULWER."
Although our subject was now in the position of an independant mem-
Iber of the Plouse, yet from the numerous letters recei\ed by him fi-om thos(s
best able to judge of his position, we are inclined to think that his retire-
m.ent from the Government of the country was regretted by all those who
felt that Canada alone should be the paramount object on which to centre
the thoughts of her legislators.
Thus Mr. McPherson, of Montreal, \yrites to a friend, 14th March 1851 :
" Accept my thanks for having given me the jierusal of Mr, Merritt's
interesting and valuable report. If his reooiiimendations were caa-ried out
XJromptly, I feel pursuaded the result to the province would be as satisfac
tory and advantageous as he anticipates, * * * *
"D. McPHERSON,"
"T, H, Keefek, Esq."

389
Also a similar letter from Mr. Widder, of Toronto, same date.
One from*Mr. J. Morris, Po.stmaster General, 4th April, 1851, says : 
* "I thank you for your kind congratulations on my accession to office,
and I assure you it is to me a matter of deep regret that I cannot point to-
you as one of my colleagues." * * * *
Mr. W. Patton, of St. Thomas, says :--
" Although your having left the Ministry, (which, permit me to assure-
you, caused universai regret amongst the Saxon race in our district,) it re
quires your watchfulness and experience, would the party in power only-
have the good sense to profit by them !" * * ;[<
Mr. Merritt remained at home this winter, attending to his home affairs..
He procured an ingenious contrvance, called the hydraulic ram, by which
water was supplied to baths (fee, through the house.
While in Toronto, he (smployed a young Englishman, by the name
of Edward James^ a gardener by profession, who had lately arrived from,
England, where he had been enndoyed in the royal gardens, under H. R.
H, the Duchess of Kent. Our subject, on leaving, took him with Mm to lay
out the improvements around his dwelling on Yate Street, and what is now
known as the " side hill." The whole resulting in the beautiful esplanade,
which cost our sub.ject several thousand dollars, and added materially to.
the appearance of the gi-ounds, as well as affording a sightly street-walk.
" Private journal, January 29th, — Wrote Provincial Secretary respect
ing S, Phelps. Inspector General, respecting W. Dittrick.
" February 17 — Received report from Dr. Tache, on St. Lawrence. Did
not reach me until my report was closed and sent in, it is therefore referred
to in the appendix."
The previous year, the amended or new Municip.al Act came in
force. A niea.sure which lessened th-^ powers of statesmen, and intro
duced an expensive system of administration, which has led towards an
archy, as there seemed to be no real means of defining their proper powers,
and in essence is the Tribal .system modernized, though it takes many years.
to demonstrate it.
Mr. M., while in Toronto, had recommended patience, yet, after Ms,
son and friends had entered into schemes of local improvement, he gave-
his private credit for the completion of one of them far beyond the line of
prudence here inculcated. This letter relates to the Canal and Suspension
Bridge road.
" My Dear Son, — Yours of 26th was received this day. I am glad to>
hear your road over the mountain is better made on this side than on the
other. If drained well the road will be useful; if not, it cannot last; drain
age is the principle ; the rest of the work secondary.
" Until I hear whether Kerr and those holding land, are willing and
satisfied it is their interest to unite in purchasing the government plot, it
is useless for me to attempt aiding them to help themselves. A great pub-

390
lie benefit will assuredly be the result, if the plan can be carried out, antd all
concerned benefitted, but as all are so much alive to censure, and imputg
improper motives, that I am loth to move in any matter in which my own
private interests can be or is in anyway concerned, or any of my family, how
ever much the public may be benefitted.
" The Suspension Bridge is paying well ; but roads will not. I am glad
to hear the trade is increasing on the canal; will send you a statement of
tolls shortly.
" Love to 31a, and all relations and friends,
" Your aff'ectionate father,
"W. HAillLTON MERRITT."
" W. H. M. Jun."
The following is taken from Journal, 15th April : —
" Roads. — The vast importance of good r(*ads, to a town's prosperity,
will be our apology for giving to-day, the memorial of the directors of the
St. Catharines and Merrittsville road, presented to our town council. The
document is argumentative, and ably drawn up, by W. H. M. Jun., the
zealous President of the Board, to whose untiring exertions we are indebted
for the enterprise. We can very easily suppose that a feeling of opposition
to the prayer of the memorial will exist, as there seems a strong disinclina
tion on the part of many to invest in roads."
" Merrittville Road.
" To the Hon. the Municipal Council of St. Catharines : —
" The Directors of the St. Catharines and Merrittville Turnpike Com
pany are happy to inform the Town Council that a right to the location of
the road in its vrhole length, will enable the work to be commenced as soon
as the procuring of funds render it practicable.
" The result of the opening of the Great Western Railway past this
town, will be to divert the country trade, on both sides of St. Catharines,
to the larger markets of Hamilton and Buffalo, an advantage admitted to
equalize pricjes on the whole extent of countr}-; that is, that the farmer liv
ing near any railway station can always take advantage of the highest mar
ket, which is invariably in the larger towns. If this be the case, unless
we open up to our merchants and iiieohanics the country trade of the town
ships lying back of us, our scope of population will be very limited indeed;
and if the progress and advancement of the town become checked by any
such cause, we shall find those smaller communities which interfere "very
little with our present limited radius of country become formidable rivals.
"We secured but £1500 of private stock, which with the £1000 taken
by the corporation is inadequate to finish the work.
'• The Directors are satisfied that it is quite useless to endeavour to im
press the members os the council with the importance, they may simply say
necessity, of taking up this question with a determination to carry it
through. The payment of the interest on the sum of three thousand pounds
will scarcely be felt by the increasing population of so thriving a commioii-
ty, provided they take steps to keep in that thriving condition.
" But if the town is once allowed to fall back and lose her status by any
neglect of those whose duty it is to watch her interest with care, then even
the present debt would press far more heavily on property depreciated in
value, and a dwindling -trade, kc, kc"

391
March 27, — Queenston Suspension Bridge was a scheme favoured and
promulgated by our subject, and was inaugurated by a dinner on this side
of the river. It is hardly necessary to add, that a good stone road was
;buUt by the government, passing through St. Catharines to Queenston.
" Canal opened 20th.
" April 29th, — Visited Mayville with Mrs. Merritt in carriage.
" With Directors, at Suspension Bridge ; and had an interview with
Roblin, on making a railway 20 feet over the carriage bridge. Second day
to Buffalo, third day to Gooderich's tavern.
" Fourth day at Silver Creek ; fifth with Mr. Peacock at Mayville.
" Retumed home Saturday, 8th May.
An incident is noticed regarding the occupations of this winter in whicli
the assistance of the "weed" was needed. Mr. M. took great interest in the
untried enterprise of fitting out a steam propeller. Thomas, and Messrs.
Ranney and Risley made the family sitting-room a hall of discussion on all
4;he details of construction going on in Mr. Shickluna's shipyard, Mr. Ri.sley
being constructor of an engine from the foundry at Niagara.
Mrs. Merritt writes, 6th April : —
" I spent a happy winter, having all my family home. Mr. Mei-ritt
would be engaged in writing, and myself with the household, till three
o'clock, when a drive with my husband, if the weather permitted, occupied
the rest of the day. In the evening they generally read, smoked and talked
by the fire."
20th, — The propeller Brantford, which was launched a month previous,
from Mr. Shickaluna's ship-yard, started to Montreal. .As this was the
fpioneer to the large fleet of propellers owned in and now running from this
place to the same destination, we think the incidents relating to it will not
be out of place. Thomas and Mr. Ranney, accompanied by Wm. and seve
ral other gentlemen, consisting of Messrs. Adams, Ingersoll, Copeland, (fee. ,
were among the passengers on her trial trip. The voyage is thus graphically
(described : "Montreal, 4th June, 1851.
" My Dear Mother, — You no doubt have been anxious about us, since
we left, as our boat was new and untried.
"We left the port at five precisely, everything working exquisitely well ;
but about seven our pump, the old machine would not work ; we wero
obliged to let off steam, and make another start at nine, soon after some
packing gave away, and the man-hole of the boiler leaked, and we put out
the fires, and did not make another start until four or five in the morning.
There was a heavy breeze, and the boat having no headway, rolled some,
and made both of our engineers sea sick. Mr, Kerby took their place, and
early Friday morning, we made Kingston. From there we got on -well, with
the exception of the packing giving way once or twice, and arrived here
¦Monday morning, laying all night at Cornwall and Beauharnois.

392
"The weather was- very fine coming down the river, and our party en
joyed it very much, not one being impatient at the numerous misfortunes,
as we all knew they were of a trifling nature.
" The machinery has been overhauled, and we do not anticipate any trou
ble in going up. Every one here admires the boat; she is quite the wonder
of the day ; her cargo surprised them all. We did not touch over in the
passage. "Freight is now arriving in, and we will have a full cargo for Toronto
and St. Catharines. We expect to leave to-morrow evening, or early Friday,
and to be at Toronto Sunday. Your very affectionate Son,
"THOMAS R. MERRITT."
On 20th May the last session of the Parliament was opened ; Mr. M. was
there, in the capacity of a private member, -when, in a lengthy .speech, he gave
his reasons for retiring from the Ministry, which have been alr'eady noticed, as
owing to a want of agreement on his retrenchment policy. He, without
going into oppos'tion, still advocates his measures for the improvement of the
country, with, to all appearances, as much satisfaction as before, and le^s anxiety
Mr. Merritt, on the second day, and in answer to the speech, rose and
said, " he availed himself of the earliest opportunity to state the grounds
on which he felt it his duty to retire from the Provincial Government.
He might state with all sincerity that no person ever assumed the respon
sibilities of office with higher expectations, and no person ever left them
with greater regret at not having accomplished the objects for which he
had undertaken this arduous duty. His expectations of usefulness were
formed from a thorough knowledge of the capabilities and resources of
this country, for he was satisfied that were these resources developed, and our
expenses reduced, Canada might yet become one of the most prosperous por
tions of North America. (Hear.)
In 1811 the whole trade of the country bordering the northern and western
lakes floated down to the markets of Montreal and Quebec. In a few short
years that trade was diverted from those ports to the port ot New York. For
merly the productions of that country were tributary to our great natural
water comniunication : uow, the productions of Canada are tributary to their-
narrow channels.
The same contrast may be instituted with reference to the agricultural, the
manufacturing, the shipping and other interests. We see one country, with
no other revenue than that derived from its internal resources, increasing in
population, in wealth and prosperity, with a rapidity that is unexampled. We
see the other, with much greater internal resources, and with double the exter
nal revenue from imports, comparatively retrograding — in using the word retro
grading, he begged it to be understood that he was not comparing Canada now
with what she was in bygone years. Compared with the past, Canada has in
creased in wealth and population, and it is quite impossible that under any sys
tem that she should not increase.
To what cause is this contrast attributable ? The answer is, to the diffe
rence in the financial policy of the two countries. Still there are ot'ner causes.
He maintained that from 1811 to the Union, and from the Union to the pre
sent day, the principle cause of the diff'erences have, been the system of finance
established.

39S »
At that time we enjoyed very light taxation both in Upper and Lower Ca
nada. Our import duty amounted to 2J per cent, ad valorem. In that year
an addittional tax of 2 J per cent, was proposed for the purpose of carrying out
improvements. He moved an amendment, with the view of appropriating
the proceeds of tax to the payment of the debt then or thereafter to be con
tracted for the public works; and that amendment was supported by his Hon.
and learned friend the Attorney General, by the Hon. Mr. Price, and by 14
members. It was rejected by the majority, the argument against it being that
we have a Responsible Government.
It was said " there was a system formerly by which members were able to
carry their objects without restraint, but now the Government is responsible
for our expenditure. " (Hear, hear.) Well, what has been the responsibility?
The 2 J per cent, then to be raised was for the purpose of carrying out public
improvements, and for no other. Wh-at has been its application '? It has
gone to sustain the expenditure of the most expensive government that — in
proportion to the population — exists in any part of America. (Hear, hear.)
The check proposed has proved to be inoperative. The system of which he
V complained commenced in 1841, aud was followed up by nearly all parties in
the House. He recollected that his honorable friends, the present Attorney
General and the Commissioner of Crown Lands, were rendered the subjects of
much hostile feeling by voting for- the bona fide checks which he proposed ;
so little idea had they then of the corrupting tendency of the system. (Hear,
hear.) In 1844 he again called attention to the fact that the expenditure of
our Provincial Government since tbe Union had been greater than the expen
ses ofthe two governments before the Union, -and then pronounced the system
of finance, established under the Union Aot, a failure.
In 1846, he brought under the notice of the House the effects that might
be expected to follow the change that had taken place in the colonial policy of
Great Britain, and maintained that that change had entailed upon us an abso
lute necessity for curtailing our public expenditure. Nevertheless, no steps
were taken by the then Government.
In 1847, he again pointed out the operation of the amended Constitution,
adopted by the State of New York, and of the principle of reducing in debt,
with a view to its extinction in 1868. We had expended a large sum for the
purpose of gaining the western trade, but the plan then adopted by New York
is calculated in a few years to remove all tolls from their canals, and thus, by
diverting trade from this country, render our expenditure, in a great measure,
unproductive. In 1848, he had the honor of receiving an intimation that he was called upon
to participate in the councils of his country. Before-accepting the situation,
he addressed a letter to the head of the government, the Hon. Mr. Lafontaine,
in which he (Mr. Merritt) recapitulated his views with regard to the applica
tion of the proceeds of the Crown Lands, for the support of the Common
Schools and the establishment of district libraries— the immediate completion
of our leading commucications, and reducing the toll on the St. Lawrence
on up and down freight to the standard of the Welland Canal ; to obtain reci
procity forthe natural productions of Canada and the coasting trade, — in short,
that he had advocated the removal of all restrictions on trade, reducing the
duties on imports, thereby increasing the revenue from toll. With these
c6anges, and due economy in the public expenditure, he entertained no doubt

394
that the finances of this Province could be brought into as favorable a position
.as those of the adjoining Government.
He was informed that every opportunity would be offered him to bring
those various subjects under the consideration of the Government; therefore
believing that connection with the Government would give him the best oppor
tunities of adeancing these views, he accepted the offer; and he felt bound now,
to state that the Government had, at all times, afforded him every facility to
explain and enforce his opinions, and conduct investigations arising out of them.
In 1849, his time was, to a great extent, consumed by his visit to Washing
ton, and subsequently to Halifax, with his learned friend, the Attorney Gene
ral from Lower Canada, on the subject of reciprocity. No efficient opportuni
ty for carrying on his investigations presented itself until the Government was
established in Toronto, in January, 1850 ; — after that, besides attending to his
duties as President ofthe Committee of Council, he had ample opportunities,
to investigate every source of revenue, and every object of expenditure; and
m this labour he was incessantly engaged until April. He then represented
to his colleagues that a change was in his judgment necessary in the financial
system, and that a very large reduction must be made. In this they did not
concur, and his resignation became inevitable. It was proposed however, that
the whole subject should be referred to a finance committee, composed of mem
bers from both sides of the House ; and to that proposition he acceded.
After that was settled, he accepted the situation of Chief Commissioner of
Public Works, and appealed to his constituents for the third time during the
present Parliament, and was re-elected. He then stated, as now, that his col
leagues were not opposed to retrenchment, but had determined as he then first
announced to appoint a finance committee to be '-omposed of the leading mem
bers of all parties, who would have an opportunity of thoroughly investigating
and reporting on the subject, (Mr. Perry, Mr. Bolton of Norfolk, Mr. Hopkids,
and all those most anxious for retrenchment had been previously named for
the Committee.) This public announcement gave general satisfaction, and the
public waited patiently for the result. He had every confidence in their labours.
Now, however, he must express his great rearet at the result ofthe investigations
of that committee. (Hear, hear.) The evidence was reported, it is true, but
in a manner that had never come before the public. At the close of the session,
his time was occupied with an examination of the public works, and with en
deavours to ascertain the cause of the high rates of freight and insurance be
tween Quebec and England, and if possible to discover the reason why the trade
had left ihe St. Lau-reuce and gone to the Hudson. His reports on that subject
which will no doubt be laid upon the table, will enable the House to judge
whether the public is likely to derive any advantage from that service. Im
mediately after liis return a minute of council was submitted, in which he
could not concur, and he therefore felt it his duty to tender his resignation.
As this minute has been printed and gone to the public, he trusted that his
Menioraodum which was made at the time, containing his reasons for not as
senting to it, will also be laid before the House. In the meantime in the
absence of that memorandum he would briefly allude to the points in which he
could not concur. The first was that in which the Committee of Council re-
marked that considerable reduction have been made in the salaries of officers
employed in the various public departments, aiid that these reductions have been
generaUy approved. Now with regard to the Customs' Department, he held ia

395
his hand a statement of the amount of revenue derived from that source in
1840, when we received £233,486 ; the cost of collection being £11,720. This
was before the Union. After the Union we added 100 per cent, to the Cus
toms duties. In 1844, the amount of duties received was £419,772, the cost of
-collection £33,756. (Hear, hear.) He did not speak so much of the in
creased duties levied since the Union, as of the increased cost of collection.
2nd, — The committee said they were not of opinion thai any advantageous
change can be made in the system of disposing of public lands.
In 1844, as chairman of a committee, he spent nearly three months in exa
mining the revenues and expenditure connected with our public domain, and
he did hope that the late Administration would have profited by the report.
He need not detain the House by enlarging upon these topics. No country
under heaven possesses the natural advantages of Canada. All they
required was the reduction of the public expenditure and the .ability to develope
its natural resources— and apply them in aid of the general business of the
eountry. It would give an impetus to agriculture, manufactures, and
every branch of trade, increase the value of property and every material
which constitutes the wealth and insures the prosperity of a country. It will
effectually stop the cry for annexation. No one would then want to join the
United States, and to incur the expenses which follow connection with the
Federal Government, to obtain the benefits which Great Britain extends to us
without cost to ourselves. In conclusion, he would only remark that much
has been said with regard to his connection with certain parties or individuals.
He had no connection with any parties whatever, having felt it his duty to say
nothing until after this public explanation. The only decision to which he had
come with regard to his future was, that he will support any measures that he
in bis judgment are calculated to bring about these ciianges, which he deemed
absolutely necessary to promote the prosperity of the country. (Hear, hear.)
The following is the scheme for the amendment of the Union Act, com
mented upon in his speech at the opening of Parliament : —
" 5 — Resolved, That, in the opinion of this House, an address be presen
ted to Her Majesty authorizing the Govemor General to call a convention
of delegates of the inhabitants of B. N. A. to be composed of forty persons
to be elected in proportion to population as may be practicable, one dele
gate for 50,000 people, or thereabouts — as for instance : —
" Upper Canada — fifteen delegates.
" 1. — Western District, Township of Aldboro, Mosa, Eckford, Caradoc,
Mitcalf, Adelaide, Williams, Lobo, and town of London — pop., 57,328,
" 2. — Brock District and Township of Dorchester, North and South
West Minster, Delaware, Southwold, Denwich, Yarmouth — pop., 49,934.
" 3. — Talbot District, and Townships of Malahide, Bayham, Walpole,
Rainham, Cayuga Canboro', Dunn, Moulton, Wainfleet, Humberston Ber
tie, Willoughby, Crowland, Thorold, Stamford, Niagara, Grantham, Gains
borough — Population, 51,066, kc, through the whole pro-\dnce."
The subject embodied in the resolutions quoted above was worthy the
attention of Legislators, but till after the Act of Confederation had been
accomplished by the combination of the leaders of the two parties, and the
support of their immediate followers, little had been said in the halls of
legislation on the subject.

396
His resignation was followed in July by Mr. Baldwin, who gave his final
farewell to his old constituents in North York ; and, after the close of
the Legislature, by the entire Blinistry except Mr. Hincks, who now became
Premier, and called to his Council Dr. Rolph, of '37 reputation, Mr. Price
Mr. M. Cameron, with Mr, Morin as leader from L. C.
In September, work commenced on the G. W. Railway, and was vigorously
pushed on, with all the appliances and assistance of modern engineering.
Although the election that was approaching was likely to be warmly
contested, yet as soon as Mr. Merritt had ascertained by the collectors of the
Welland Canal, that the tolls had, as according to his expectation they would,
reached to £45,000, the stockholders became entitled to their back interest of
six per cent. He visited New York to consult Mr. C, Yates, and other stock
holders there on the means necessary to be used with the Government to draw
the same.
"Wednesday, 15th October, — Left St. Catharines at ten o'clock, via Sus
pension Bridge. Had an interview with Mr. Street. Slept at Canandaigua.
" Thursday, 16th, — Slept at Chittenango.
" Monday, 20th,— By railroad to New York. Stopped at 37 Twenty first
Street, with Charles Yates Esq., Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
" Left at five o'clock, in E. and N. Y. R. R., 24th Oct. Arrived at Buf
falo same night or morning at four o'clock."
In the Fall of this year, the Governor General, on his return from the great
railway celebration, which was held in Boston, and was attended by all the
leading men of the day, visited the Falls of Niagara, and dined with our sub
ject at St. Catharines.
The Governor was well pleased with their reception in Boston, and
spoke in high terms of American hospitality, as experienced during his
visit. In general matters, the great London Exhibition of this year engrossed
a great deal of attention.
This country was also visited by Mile Jenny Lind, who came out under
the patronage of P. T. Barnum, the great Yankee showman.
.James Jones, an elector who sympathised with our subject in his efforts
to obtain a market for Canadian produce, in a letter to the Journal, writes
Stamford, llth Oct. :—
" As we are generally agreed upon the important political questions of
the day, it is useless to ditt'er on an abstract particular, where all depends
upon England ; her recent relief, if not from famine, is from a scarcity of food
for her teeming thousands, afforded by the United States, will it make her
cautious in exacting any duty on American breadstuffs. And likely Mr.
Clayton spoke correctly in saying England will not levey a tariff on her
wheat, (fee. .
" If our new ministry do not adopt stricter views on retrenchment (with
himself to assist in carrying them out) farewell to the loan system, which
will ultimately paralyze all our efforts."
About this date, the .Journal on the School Question says : —

397
" It has been urged against this position— That is, against " Free Schools"—
that the same arguments which are adduced in their favour would necessarily
lead to the conclusion, that the poor have a right to support from the property
of the country.
" Tothis argument we shall reply on some other occasion, as we wish our
observations on this all-important subject to be given in such a way as to avoid
prolixity, and to attract attention." \
The Journal, in page 353 of this work, gives our subject praise for the
School endowment.
This compliment was negatived by this argument for the support of schools by
a special tax, which is entirely different from the principles of the bill brought
in by Mr. Merritt, as he certainly never could have conceived the monstrous
injustice of property owners and capitalists being taxed to supply the largest
amount to educate their neighbours. And an act which is a direct interference
with paternal rights. On the contrary his principles were always that the
people were the owners of the wild lands, and as such might provide means for
an educational fund which his letter on page 336 explains.
We insert our subject's answer to an influential elector on separate
schools, just before the general election :
"St. Cathar!nes, 2nd Dec, 1851.
" Sir, — I am favoured with your note of this day, requesting to be put
in possession of my decided intention relative to the repeal of the 19th clause
of the school act.
" I stated on Saturday last, it was not my intention to disturb the clause
you allude to.
" At the same time you must not misunderstand me, or give me a vote
under the impression that I have changed my opinion on the subject of ap
propriating the proceeds of all lands for education alike to all, — Universal
Grammar Schools and Common Schools, and it is still my opinion that sepa
rate schools will not work well in most localities, it is of less importance,
and there are places where it may prove beneficial. For those reasons it
ought not to be disturbed. " I have the honor to be, sir,
" Your obedient servant,
" D. O'Leary, Esq." " WM. HAMILTON MERRITT."
While on this subject, we may refer to the measures for literary and
social improvement of the to-wn. Page 1C5 shows that measures had been
made for mutual improvement, and had been kept up with more or less
result till now, under the title of Atheneum ; it was possessed of an historic,
,, literary, and scientific apparatus through which materials of local history
had been acquired and lectures delivered by the members.
The movement in the behalf of the Temperance cause had produced an
institution in which Dr. Cross, who had lectured, took a lively interest.
A requisition to the Mayor, E. W. Stephenson, signed by 34 ratepayers,
for a public meeting for the purpose of taking advantage of the Act to

398
encourage the establishment of a Mechanics' Institute; the Town Hall afford
ed a commodious apartment, it was agreed to merge them both into one,.
with the author as president. The result was, lectures delivered by gentle
men from a distance, and through negotiations with the Buffalo Young
Men's Associations for lectures from their lists.
This winter, also, the first efficient association for the relief of the poor-
was founded.
In the general election which ensued, our subject was met by a strong
Reform opposition in the person of Mr. Morse of Smithville, who was put for
ward by the extreme wing of the Reform party, but without success.
December 1st. On the occasion of our subject's addressing the electors'.
at the hustings, the whole adjourned into the Town Hall, then used for the
first time for a county purpose.

18 5 2.
The published returns shewed the income derived from the Welland
C^nal to have reached tlfe amount at which the private share-holders were
entitled to their full interest on the original investment.
In the early part of the year, our subject visited Quebec, on 9th Febru
ary, where the Government was now seated; and although several of the
members ©f the Government were absent in the Lower Provinces on railway
business, yet, after ten weeks spent, he succeeded in making a satisfactory
settlement of the claim . yet the terms of the Act induced him to make a
further claim for the old stockholders, which he compiled on his return,
and published 25th August, entitled — " A Brief Review of the Origin and
Progress, being an Historical Record of the Welland Canal" — in 48 pages.
The elections over, he turns his attention to the recovery of the back
interest due on canal stock.
" Left St, Catharines Monday, I2th Jan'y. Arrived at Quebec on Satur
day, I7th. The Inspector and Receiver General returned on Friday, 23rd.-
Decided the question of amount of interest due, on Saturday, 24th.
" 26th, — Made my application on behalf of the shareholders. Sent a-
letter to the Provincial Secretary, in which I agreed to leave the details to^
the Attorney General. Also wrote Attomey General on the subject of our
claims. Received their replies in due time.
" Was thus occupied till 16th February, when I decided on making an,
application to the Legislature. Received a favourable reply on 20th.
Got through business, returning by New York, and home by 14th March.-
We insert ths following chronicle of improvements which occupied our
subject's attention at this time, viz : the extension of tbe facilities for navi
gating the Welland Canal :

39'9
April 29, '52.
"The Welland Canal.— Information has been received, we understand
from the Commissioner of Public Works, that it is intended to constract
another towing path along the canal, between this town and Thorold. This
improvement of having a towing path on each side of the canal, together
with the use of gas at the locks and bridges, will make this the most finished
and efficient line of navigation in the world."
After spending the recess in attending to the Canal, and his numerous
private matters, including the Suspension Bridge, besides going with Mrs
Merritt to Mayville, in July. He left for the Parliament to attend its first
session at Quebec, on the 16th August. One of his first acts this session
was to prefer the claims of the veterans of 1812, on the Government, (which
tended to disprove the assertion that in advocating the preservation of the
public lands, he was oblivious of their well deserved claims.) It only
resulted in obtaining medals for those engaged in 3 battles, viz., Chatauguay
Chrysler's Farm, and Detroit. These results did not suit his ideas but were
the best which could be obtained. It may be remarked that in this matter
he was assisted by Sir A. McNab and other old companions of the war.
The Hon. F. Hincks was now leader of the House and Government and
the opponent of our subject for power in Canada.
The statesmanship displayed by our politicians since the retirement of
Mr. M. from the cabinet have not been such as to gain the admiration of
cool thinking men. Being more of a struggle to hold the reins of power
than a sincere desire to elevate the country in the eyes of the world. It
is folly to speak of either part)', as both Tory and Grit are charo-ed
with similar offences, so that it requires more than ordinary perception to
tell the difference. Yet one thing is known, that both have shewn an ear.
nest incKiiation to serve British interests too often at Canada's ex
pense. One instance, by referring to page 316 Sir J. Harvey's speech refers to a
project, wMch would have been of immense benefit, without a corresponding
outlay of public money. Our subject's ideas on this matter, p. 325, shews that
he fully approved of the scheme whereby the Imperial Govemment guaran
tees the sum of £2,500,000 for the purpose of constructing a railway from
Halifax to Quebec. Had this offer been accepted by the Colonial Minis
tries, the saving to this country would have been immense ; but what did
boasted statesmanship accomplish? A delegation of gentlemen goes to
England and actually arranged for a withdrawal of this promise, under
taking to construct the Grand Trunk Railway, and saddles Canada with an
unnecessary debt, and as a reward for this policy, the Hon. F. Hincks
feceived a colonial governorship, and left Canada before the results had
culminated in '57.

400
The Journal says : — " That at a public dinner in Berlin, Mr. Hincks
told the company that the G. T. R. R. from Halifax to Sarnia had been
fully matured, and the work undertaken by British cajjitalists at their own
risk, for £9,000,000 sterling, and that the alterations in the imperial line
added on £3,000,000 more."
"It is nothing to us what the contracts are, or what the main trunk rail
road costs ; all we want is to secure a good road as soon as possible, as the
more English capital is expended, the better for the country ; and the more
the road costs, the better is the security we have for the bonds we exchange ,¦
July 14th, Journal extract on the extension ofthe franchise.
"The greatest blunder ever made by O'Connell was that of makino- him
self a party to Catholic Emancipation by the disfranchisement of the forty
shillings freeholders. The government that extends the elective franchise
of a country gives the most convincing evidence that statesmen can "ive
that they are not afraid to trust the people, either with the interests of their
country, or with their own position in its government. The man who gives
a political existence to a large class of citizens who never before enjoyed it
at once acts justly, enlists the sympathies ofthe enfranchised, and must se
cure the esteem of the entire Reform party. But Mr, Hincks has done
this most decidedly and effectually, and yet forsooth, men are found capable
of charging him with having done nothing."
" That the Tory party should pour out its vials of wrath upon Mr.
Hincks, we can perfectly understand, for he has prostrated the political power
of that party ; but that he should be abused by any portion of his own par
ty, to which he has given a character and influence beyond anythino- it ever
possessed in this country is the more surprising.
"When we reflect upon the position occupied by the Reform party
when Mr. Hinclcs first became its advocate, trampled on, de.spised, discoiii-
.*fited, with the foul brand of disloyalty and rebellion fixed upon it by its
opponents, without any organization of moral and political force its '
principal men hung , or expatriated, and its enemies in power 
when we look at it now — respected in the jirovince — its distinctive
principles all wrought into the constitution of the country, its most ultra
measures all proved practicable and safe, and its character raised up to re
spect and confidence in England, as well as by any foreign governments, we
may well express astonishment that the man who has principally effected all
this should nevertheless be abused by some men professing to belong to the
Pieform party. This state of things, however, admits of explanation on
one principle, and only one — personal vanity, selfishness and disappoint
ment. We don't hesitate to say, that no honest Reformer can possibly de
sire to see Mr. Hincks retire from the Government of the country, though
we have no doubt but that this is the object aimed at by his traducers.
' All human nature till its latest breath,
Finds envy never conquered but by death.'
" Now we Speak the sentiments of all Reformers in this part of the
country, when we say that a unanimous feeling prevails of desire that the
man who has done so much for the country and his party, should retain the
reins of power in his hands until a fair trial shall have been given to his
measures, and until a stability shall have been stamped upon them credit
able to the party originating them, and useful to the country." '

4U1
To Mrs. M., from Quebec, August 2Jth, he says : — " You are not enter
tained with politics, I will therefore mention a few instances to your
self and family. First is the waste of time , up to the present moment
the answer to the Governor's speech has not passed. Dined with the Gov
ernor General at Spencer Wood last night, succeeded by a ball; the apart
ments fitted up with the greatest splendour. Mr. and Mrs. K. have gone
down to the Saguenay, and a number of members; Mr. M. and myself have
been making an excursion over the citadel, and around Cape Diamond.
The scenery is really magnificent around Quebec. A great pity there was
not more vessels to make it what it was intended it should one day become,
a great emporium for the trade of the west. I do not spend all my time
in idleness, as I have cut out business enough, which will come after the
Address. 1st, an address to the Home Government to procure Reciprocity.
2nd, To obtain returns from all the Governments of B. N. A. of the receipts
and expenditures of each separate Government, in order to get an average
for the same number of people, with a view towards forming a union of the
coloMes. The order of the day is here, heavy taxes, and useless expenditure.
" This is a conviacing proof that our present system needs amending.
It -will end in time, but when, it is difficult to point out, we require an en
tire change.
"W. H, M."
A petition was presented to the House praying for extending the order
of Sons of Temperance to effect the passage of a prohibitory liquor law,
then popularly termed the Maine Law, It did not amount to anything
m a beneficial way, yet from that time we may date the annual temperance
motions brought into Parliament. Our subject, although not a total
abstainer, was nevertheless, a great friend of temperance, and as such
was always ready to assist any measure having that for its object. Thus
when the convention met at Fonthill, he was asked to preside, although at
his election, a few months previous the Temperance organization of the
county had been used in opposition to his return. The author was present
as a member from St. Catharines. We can not better give his views than
by reverting to the occasion.
Mr. Merritt's speech at Fonthill : —
After enjoining the strictest order, he said, "They had assembled
for the purpose of discussing one of the most important questiens of the day,
as it was likely, if carried into operation, to produce an entire change in
our future intercourse. We must bear in mind that habits once formed
are not suddenly abandoned ; it was therefore to be treated with patience,
judgment, and great forbearance.
" Tt -will be asked why the committee of the different societies selected a
person to preside on this occasion who was not a member of any temperance
or any other society; the answer is plain— the object of this meeting is not
to discuss the blessings conferred by temperance; they are admitted by
every sane man— it is to adopt the most effectual measures to increase them
m the shortest possible time, and they believe that the Maine Law will
effect it and it was their interest to obtain his assistance. He had on no
public occasion expressed an opinion on this law, and was therefore bound

402
to believe the reliance placed on his support was founded on his advocatmg
every measure for the general benefit ; on that account he felt the more
honored by this selection." * h< * *
20th October our subject indited a lengthy letter to the Chief Commis
sioner of Public Works, Hon. J. Chabot, who had succeeded Hon. John
Young in that office; this letter, which was published, contained the views
that have been mostly given in other parts of this biography as not to
require recapitulating.
10th November, the Cholera having made its appearance in Quebec,
the Legislature adjourned, and our subject, with the other members, went
home to enjoy the health of the body and relief of the mind, to return after
a few months to better complete the important business of legislators.
A general census of the British empire was taken on a most extended scale,
which was a part ofthe exhibition programme, and in which the wealth, progresg
and capabilities of Canada was fully shewn. Without entering into the general
ities of the Canadian census, at this time we must mention some curious results
by origin, of the people. Thus, out of a total population of nearly two millions,
we find the origins about as follows: — English 95,000, Scotch 90,000, Irish
227,000. Natives of English origin 651,000, French 696,000,— which certain
ly shews that more consideration for the claims of the native English should
have determined the plans of the statesmen of the day.
Dec, 14th, Journal, — " The Hon. Wm. H. Merritt delivered a lecture
on political economy at the Town Hall. He dwelt long on his favourite
theme, water commumcation, and told his attentive auditory that naviga
tion by vessels of 2,000 tons may yet be accomplished from Lake Superior to
the Atlantic."
Despatches were received on the subject of the imperial guarantee for a
railroad to unite together the thi-ee jorovinces.
" It appears that Hon. F. Hincks, Tache, and Young have left, in order
to be present at the deliberations of the new pro-vincial legislature. We
have no doubt the interests of Canada will be taken care of by these gentle
men, in any negotiations that may be entered upon."
The following is from the Globe: —
" A route has been agreed upon which comes within the terms on which
Lord Grey offered the assistance of the Imperial guarantee."
A letter appeared in an English paper from Sir F. B. Head on the coup de
etat, approving the course of Louis Napoleon.
The Journal notices a meeting of the St. Catharines and Merrittsville
Turnpike Road Co., Wm. H. Merritt, Jun., president.
At this eventful era in its history, when the town was about to take a
position among the manufacturing centres of the province, by its having the
advantage of a new avenue by railroad and bridge to the outward world, the
population of St. Catharines was 4,368.

403

1853.
The annual meeting of the Wesleyan branch Missionary Society was
held in this town on Monday evening; It was presided over by Hon. W.
H. Merritt. The chairman opened the business of the meeting by dwell
ing forcibly on the cmelties which had been practiced on the Indians, and
enforced the duty of supporting missionaries amongst them.
His son Thomas was^^married to Miss Benson, of Peterborough, at the
commencement of the year.
Feb. 1st, the Jowrnal had given the views on the Reciprocity bill.
" The general terms of a treaty agreed upon at Washington by the Brit
ish Minister and the U. S. Government was presented by the latter on the
1st inst."
Some further negotiation is going on between Mr. Crampton and Mr.
Everett. It is to be laid before the Senate during the present session. A
further notice of its passage is given in the following item : —
p5 During the Winter W. H., Jun., went to Washington on business for
our subject, in connection with reciprocity; and in a letter Feb. 2nd, describes
a lengthy interview with Messrs. Crampton, Bidwell, Clayton, Walker, and
others, also mentioned despatches being received from the Imperial Govern
ment, suggesting the preliminary steps, advancing the negotiations, as many
items of sectional and personal interest had to loo loojied to from both sides.
Feb'y 21, set out for Quebec.
In April, 1853, Mr. -M. -writes a letter from Quebec to the Boston
International Journal, in which be enters very minutely into the entire
matter of Reciprocity, giving such figures and data as completely reveals the
immense benefits likely to accrue to both countries from this act.'||,:It was
remarked at the time that this letter had caused more attention to be paid
to the Reciprocity question on both sides of the line than the whole of the
previous talk and newspaper,editorials written on the>ubject.
In this year were multiplied those schemes for local improvement under
the Act for private companies, which were perhaps too grand for the age,
but which helped vastly to increase the prosperity of the communities that
took advantage of them. One, the railroad connecting the lakes, our sub
ject became greatly interested in.
We have mentioned the Mazeppa steamer making regular trips to To
ronto for a short time, the boat coming up the Canal to Lock No. 2; but
the construction of the Grand Trunk R. R. caused such an increase in the
freight and passengers, the latter averaging 100 per day,?that the detention
at the port, or lower lock,|caused them to be carried down in omnibuses.

404
The successes in business led the people of St. Catharines to think
of building a more commodious boat, with a good road communicating to
the harbour, which eventually brought about the Welland R. R. and steam
boat. Mr. Towers, the oldest and first engine builder in St. Catharines, fur
nished the engines and machinery to the steamer to ply to Toronto. In
reference to this gentleman, it may be mentioned that at a prior date he
carried on the business of iron-founde* in AUanburgh, in the works estab
lished by the late J. B. Yates, and afterwards moved to St. Catharines,
where the success of the " Novelty Iron Works" attested his character as
an enterprising citizen.
So far we have omitted to mention another useful avenue to the town
viz., the Pelham road, built several years previous by a private company,
of which W. H. M., Jun. was one of the originators, the one to the Port
being the only one now required to complete the access from all sides.
Our subject used his influence with the Government to get the canal
enlarged. In his correspondence at this time we find a letter from his son William,
who was elected to the council, wherein he encloses our subject a peti
tion with draft of a Bill from St. Catharines, to permit the corporation
to construct gas and water works ; the portion referring to the gas works
passed the House, and the water question wa.'s left in abeyance.
March 8th, a telegram requiring amendment to the same acknowledged.
We also find, April 3rd, that he is under the impression that the works
constructed by the Grand River Navigation Company will be assumed by
the Govemment, which would be an act of justice to the shareholders in
that undertaking, but unfortunately has not yet occurred.
On 22nd April, the scheme of the Welland Railway was sufficiently
advanced, that in a letter to our subject from his son William, mention is
made of him walking over the location as far as Port Dalhousie, and on the
6th of August the report of Mr. Danforth the surveyor of the line was
received. In May he had introduced a Bill for the incorporation ofthe Thorold and
Port Dalhousie R. R., which, having received the royal assent, was the
cause of an enthusiastic meeting in the Town Hall for the purpose of raising
stock, (fee. The Journal of the day, says : —
"The meeting was unanimous, and determined that the charter obtained
by Mr. M. should not remain a dead letter, (fee."
14th June, this long session closed, during which our subject tried to
check railroad extravagance, differing from former years, when legislators
required to be stimulated for public improvements.
The latter part of this session shewecl a great degree of activity. Mr.

405
Hinck's administration has been compared to Walpole's in England, which
in many respects was correct, as the numerous schemes advanced at this
period will attest, all of which was to induce English capitalists to invest
in Canadian securities, a proceeding which the London Times then said was
the " only way now to rule the colonies," bringing on a reckless extrava
gance, which eventually has resulted in depreciation of stock, and from
their extended power bringing almost every municipality in the country
on the verge of bankruptcy.
We insert the following from the Journal, as indicating the opinion of
the press, among the mimsterial supporters : —
" The Session. — We are pleased to see the perseverance of the Govern
ment in extending the elective franchise to persons assessed as oceupants
of property in towns, cities and villages, to the amount of £7 10s., and in
the country to £50. This bill will be popular, because it is just, and it will
give confidence to the Reform party, as in proportion it will increase the
electors. The first meeting to elect the directors of the Port Dalhousie and Tho
rold R. R. was held on the 9 th July, when the following gentlemen were
•hosen, viz. — Hon. W. H. Merritt, Geo. Rykert, T. R. Benson, C. Phelps,
W. A. Chisholm, Mr. T. L. Helliwell was appointed Secretary,
In July a large meeting of the ratepayers of St. Catharines was held
for the purpose of considering the granting of money to assist in building
the Welland R. R.. Mr. Merritt addressed the meeting, and explained
the prospects of the road kc. In the Fall he published a lengthy letter, on
its advantages to the counties of the Niagara Peninsula, and in the mean
time, the necessary surveys were made, and other arrangements entered into
for commencing the work at the shortest possible time.
In July we notice the second arrival in Montreal of an ocean steamer,
the Lady Eglinton of the St. Lawrence S. S. Company.
Mr. M. took a trip of a fortnight's duration to the south shore of Lake
Erie, embracing Chatauque and Erie.
Owing to the G. T. R. R., a great number of English engineers, con
tractors, and others arrived in Canada; amongst them was the great George
Stephenson, builder of the Menia bridge in Wales, also Mr. Jackson.
They received a grand banquet in Montreal and expressed themselves de
lighted with the country.
A letter from Mr. Hincks to our subject at this time, says : —
" QuBBEC, 22nd August, '53.
" Dear Sir, — I think it very important that you should, if possible,
accompany Mr. Stephenson and Mr. Jackson in their westward trip ; it is
most important in every way, that the attention of Mr. S. should be called to
the Maiden terminus.
"F. HINCKS."
"W. H. M., M. P."

406
Owing to our subject having more pressing engagements inside of
the same week, he could not comply with the request of the Minister.
It is related that in a conversation between Mr. Stephenson and our sub
ject, the great engineer of the Menia Bridge gave his opinion that a wire
suspension bridge over the Niagara could not be made practical for railway
communication. The arrangements for a connection between the G. W. and Port Dal
housie R. R, Companies seem to have been broken up at this time, an affair
which altered the plans of the latter company, so that a direct line to Buf
falo, or some point on Lake Erie was to be built. The Jourrud says : —
"The conduct of the G. W. R. Co. by necessitating a line to Buf
falo will have its proper effect, -viz., that of arousing the energies of the
municipalities along the projected line. They have now an opportunity to
possess a railroad which they must not let slip by, or if they do they sac
rifice the interests of one of the most productive and interesting sections of
the country."
During the late session of Parliament our subject at last succeeded in pro
curing a charter for the Niagara District Bank, which was opened for busi
ness on 1 3th October, the anniversary of the battle pf Queenston, under the
management of Mr. Smart, cashier.
It will be observed that our subject interested himself during the session
last year to procure some acknowledgment to the sur-vivors of the war of
1812, and succeeded in getting a medal as already mentioned. A committee
known as the "Monument Committee,'' was afterwards formed, of wMch
he was secretary.
Oct. 13th. — The long expected day for the realization of an oft-talked-
of event, had at last arrived, and from before the dawn of a lovely autumn
moming might be seen going off from St. Catharines waggon and carriage
loads of people to witness the ceremony of laying the foundation stone of
the monument which now marks the resting place of the illustrious Brock
and his militia on the summit of Queenston Heights. Our subject and
Col. John Clark, who had taken an active part in the arrangements, had
gone down the evening previous, and had everything ready for the reception
of the visitors, who soon came in hundreds from all accessible points.
The ceremony of laying the stone was performed by the Adjutant Gen
eral of Militia, Col. McDonnell, a silver trowel for the purpose being pre
sented to him on behalf of the committee, by Walter H. Dickson, Esq. It
is unnecessary to particularize on the occasion ; suffice it to say that on our
subject devolved the task of orator for the occasion, when, in a long speech,
he recapitulated the events of the war of 1812. He was followed by Col.
Clark, Col. Tache, and others.
The names of the Monument Building Committee for the occasion were
Sir Allan McNab, Hon. W. H. Merritt, T. C. Street, M. P. P., W. Dixon,

407
'Chief Justice Robinson, Col. Kerby, Col. Clark, Col. Hamilton, Col.
McDougall, Hon. Justice McLean, Hon. Justice Macaulay, and J. G. Ridout
Esq. ; W. Thomas, architect, J. Worthington, builder.
It is worthy of recording here that before the dispersion of the company
an unanimous resolution was passed, declaring the advisability of taking
measures to mark the different battle grounds in Canada with suitable
monuments, a suggestion which we are sorry to state, has not been carried
into operation. In another generation some may be entirely forgotten.
In furtherance of tMs work, on next day our subject. Col. Frazer and
Mr. Dines, with the author, visited Stoney Creek, and, with the assistance
of informants, who were on the field before and during the engagment, laid
the sites of the monuments of the battle.
In November of this year the opening of the G. W. R. occurred, much to
the satisfaction of the people, although it was far fiom being in a safe or
perfect state, as the haste used by the contractors in its completion, was
often felt afterwards in the unfinished work on the line.
People at present have but little idea of the wonderful changes wrought
by the railway, from the old stage coach with its slow progress, to the fast
train, was a grand step, although many of the great expectations then
founded, have not been realized and perhaps never may.
In the Fall of this year his son William was married, to Miss Morris'
daughter of the Hon. Jas. Morris of Brockville, After the wedding the
happy couple started on a European tour.
Ominous tidings of a European war was also heard, and the war spirit
seemed to soon flnd many enthusiastic supporters in Canada, who, in glow
ing terms, recounted the glories of the British army in the days of yore.
The year closed with the news of the naval conflict at Sinope and defeat
of the Turks.

1 854.
One of the first acts of this year was the refusal of the municipalities
along the proposed W. R. R. to give any money or take any stock in the
work. On 1st of January, the fine Parliament buildings with library, kc, at
Quebec, was totally destroyed by fire.
In March of this year, we find the first movement towards establishing
a volunteer organization, which afterwards entirely supplanted the old militia,
although we doubt if the results of the movement has paid us good interest
on the money spent over its institution, as we are still without the effid'ent
home army of '94, '12, or even '37.

¦ 408
On the 23rd May, Lord Elgin landed in New York from England, where *
he.had spent' the previous iWinter, He went on to Washington and signed
the Reciprocity Treaty, which had been' so nearly completed by our subject
seven years before. Mr. Merritt with Mrs. M. were then on a visit to his
relative, Mr. Williams, at his , plantation near Baltimore, and met Lord
Elgin in that city ; he received no official recognition from His Excellency
in connection with the signing of the treaty.
The Parliament opened in the Quebec Music;jHall on the 13th of June,
but was merely a formal affair, as the Governor at once dissolved the House
after a week's session. Our subject, having other business to atttend to
in the city, did not participate in this miniature copy of " much ado about
nothing." Journal, of June says on the dissolution : —
"The Minister will now go to the country constitutionally, with a most
liberal Clergy Reserve Bill, giving to the various municipalities of both sec
tions of the province their respective portions of the Clergy Reserves to dis
pose of as they would of any other funds now placed at their disposal."
Journal — "On Friday, 21st, the nomination of a member for this county
took place in our Town Hall, when the Hon. W. H. Merritt was proposed;
after which G, W. O. Clark, Esq., was also nominated."
The new election occurrred en the 21st July, when our subject was
opposed by Mr. W. O. Clark, over whom he was elected by a large majority.
In Mr. M.'s speech he advocated a union of the provinces as usual, and
offered to support a Maine Liquor Law.
" Mr, Merritt said, there is a time when men are called upon to express
themselves on the state of the country, and the renewal of the contraict
between a member and his constituents affords that opporumty. He
thanked the people for their previous support, and entertained no doubt
that he would again be maintained. It was the last time he should come
before them as a candidate or member, for he did not then know which he
was, as, at the eleventh hour, he found a second nomination. ¦* *
" Our liabilitties are limited to £3,000 per mile, and -we have the first
lien on the roads." Referring to the prosperity of Canada, Mr. M. attributed
it to the high price now obtained for the produce of the soil.
Our subject was elected, after a slight opposition from the adherents of
both parties, perhaps from the intention expressed of this being the last
time he should offer himself as their representative.
The formal opening of the G. W. R. after a few months trial, was celebra
ted with great eclat in London; the author was present on the occasion,
and was struck at the changes of the personell of railroad management
which had occurred since the turning of the first sod, by Sir A. MacNab,
which he witnessed in the same place, seven years previous. The veteran
railway advocate was not present, and his absence was scarcely noticed on
the occasion.

489
The Cholera,5which had become almost of annual occurrence, was very
disastrous to the labourers who were still on the railroad.
In September our subject was seriously engaged on a plan having for
its object the removal of the rapids by means of blasting; from consultations
which he had with the engineers who accomplished the works at Hurl Gate,
New York, he believed the same means could be successfully used here.
The new Parliament assembled in Quebec on the 6th Sept., and the
Governor, in his speech, referred to the important measures which would
be brought before the House ; amongst them was the Reciprocity Treaty
¦with the U. S., the secularization of the Clergy Reserves in Upper, and its
twin brother the Seignorial Tenure in Lower Canada, and the changes the
Imperial Parliament had made in the constitution by electing the members
of the Upper or Legislative Council.
Mr. L. V. Sicotte was Speaker, and Sir A. MacNab, President of the
Council. Owing to the reverses sustained on the day of election, it was found
that a change iu the Ministry would take place, and that Mr. Hincks had
turned over the charge of the state to Sir A. MacNab, yet strange to say
the latter took office with a Tory Government to fully carry out the reform
and radical measures of the liberal Mr. Hincks. Mutual explanations fol
lowed in speeches from Mr. Morin, Mr. Hincks, and Mr. Merritt.
Mr. M. did not engage to support the present Ministry. In his speech
on the occasion, he remarked, " Nothing would cast so great a gloom over
Upper Canada as present political events."
" He contended that the double majority system was now introduced,
but in such a way as to give the govemment of a portion to the minority.
" He contended that a Referm Administration could be formed out of
the members of that House, and that the people would give Sir Allan Mac
Nab no credit for coming in by a contrivance to make them govern a majo
rity It is a grave question whether the Reform party should allow Sir
Allan to go on with those measures. He thought he wouM be allowed to
go on and carry those measures and then be turned out. He doubted if
this was not a preconcerted scheme, but would not say unless he knew it
positively. He had not left, nor had he intended to leave the party.
We insert further to show his views, a letter in answer to an invitation
of the Reformers of Norfolk to an opposition dinner. Mr. Merritt sends his
regrets, as was the case when he could do so with propriety, and always
when the demonstration was for himself.
" Simcoe was the spot the first opportumty was offered for commencing
my determination to adhere to the principles of self-government as an
nounced by Lord Durham. Our present system offers no guarantee that
It can be clrried into operation, or that the wishes or interests of the people
win be adhered to.AThe constitution was framed by Lord Durham withou
tie knowledge or atvice of the country ; the burden rests with him as Gov-

410
ernor. The resolutions of 1841 are merely declaratory, and wholly power
less, construed as the Government of the day may dictate. A majority of_
the members as elected have been and may be hereafter persuaded to
support any Government — have the power of expending the public money
withoot the sanction of, and in direct violation of acts of Parliament, which
has and will continue to be done by any set of men. to whom that power is
entrusted, call them what you will. Reform or Tory.
" EntertaiMng those views, I have long since made up my mind that
the inhabitants of Canada require a new constitution, one selected by dele
gates selected from different parts of the Province adapted for our peculiar
situation, which the Imperial Government would readily sanction.
" It should provide all necessary charges for the payment of our public
debt in a few years by creating a sinking fund, deprive the Legislature of
the power of spending a single farthing of the public money, unless under
the aot of the Legislature first sanctioned by the branches of the Legislature
similar to the amended constitution of New York in 1846, Ohio, Penn.,
Michigan. Such a constitution would afibrd security to property and ensure
the prosperity of Canada, and when the inhabitants feel the necessity of
moving for that object they will find a warm supporter in
" Your obedient servant,
" WM. HAMILTON MERRITT,"
It was also remarked on the election of the Speaker, that Mr. George E.
Cartier, one of the candidates, was strongly opposed by the Tories in the
House, and that J. A. MacDonald for the first time had now commence-
the career of a Minister of the Crown; thus we notice the injurious changes
which often occur in a short time. The retiring minister had well and
truly served Imperial interests.
The G. T. R. scheme was settled, and his work was accomplished ; so, to
use a familiar term, he now steps down and out.
It was suggestive to observe that Dr. Rolph, one of the late ministry,
had turned round on the Premier, but received such a castigating from the
pen of Mr. Hincks, as to effectually give him the quietus, and place him
in the obscurity in which that gentleman had found him.
Our subject was present and appears to have supported the amalgamation
Government in this and their other temporary measures, though it is remark
ed in the Journal that among the various amendments, his for appropriating
the Clergy Reserves to education, had the least support of any in the House.
A message from the Governor was also brought in by the Premier to
appropriate £20,000 sterling, to give the Imperial Government as a relief
to the widows and orphans caused by the war. This measure was carried,
although not without some opposition,. amongst whom was our subject, who
considered it a direct interference with our position as people living under
responsible government.
On 16th November our subject moved an amendment to the general

411
hill to preserve the Clergy Reserves, for educational purposes, which we
regret to find, was lost on a division.
One of the first accidents on the G. W. R. occcurred at Merritton, or
, Slabtown, as it was then called, on the 5th of July, by which seven persons
ost their lives. The accident was caused by the want of a proper fence
along the road, which allowed some cattle to stray on the track.
In the Journal of Aug. 24th, we find numerous letters on Reciprocity,
which had not been ratified by the Legislature, addressed to our subject
from his friends and co-workers in the States, one from Bronson and Croker,
Oswego, and one from Gen. Lewis Cass, Washington. In answering them
he predicts another enlargement of the Welland Canal.
In consequence of what we have said respecting the misunderstanding
with the G. W. R. Co., and the refusal of the other municipalities to give
any encouragement to the Welland Railway extension, a meeting was called,
and largely attended, in the Town Hall, and an effort was made to have
the grant given by St. Catharines rescinded ; yet the directors, supported
by the majority, were of opinion that eventually the road would be built
by some company who knew its value as a connecting link between the
lakes. On this meeting the Journal remarks : —
"We are pleased to see that no opposition exists against the investment
on the part of the town in a railroad uniting the lakes ; and the taxpayers
only require some evidence that the work will be accomplished, and their
money not expended on a short line that would never pay."
The Victoria Bridge -was now commenced, and it afforded Mr. M. great
pleasure to know that his friend, Mr. Keefer, was successful in having his
plan in general for the same adopted.
A most determined assault on the Church of England here was made
during the previous year, by raising a test qaestion in the case of the Rec
tory of St. James, which was put in Chancery, and was the beginning of a
quick series of Parliamentary warfare, which resulted in the abolition of the
Clergy Reserves from the time honored institution, and alienating the clergy
property. In November the Clergy Reserves Bill passed the House, One of the
best moves in the House was a bill brought in by our subject for the estab.
lishing of arbitration courts similar to what is known as the Prudhommfie in
France, whereby much useless and expensive litigation is avoided, although
the Bill was favourably received in the House, yet the lawyer members are
said to have actually "killed it with kindness,"
" We see from time to time, threats held out by some respectable
members of the Press, respecting the crusade that is to be waged against
Romanism in this province; the approximate cause of this unexpected
crusade is that the Lower Canadians have assisted the Reformers of Upper
Canada in secularizing the Clergy Reserves." — Journal, November 16th.

412
Are we not forced, under the incontrovertible argument of facts, to ac
knowledge, after a quarter of a century, the soundness of these prognostics,
and, that the crusade has commenced, the facts of history attest the sound
ness of the principles they are founded on, that the Church of England is
the bulwark of Protestantism. If this prophecy has been fulfilled, and
Lower Canada has imposed Catholicism on us, the problem for the educated
colonies now is to give the liberty to the indi-vidual, his religious belief
included, that was enjoyed under church and state ; for this we must reform
the Clergy Reserves Act, and restore the rights of holding land to the Epis
copal body.
It was noticed on page 69 of this work that a church was built here, in
which our subject's father participated, and an Episcopal clergyman at St.
Marks, Niagara, at a prior date. This was before the celebrated bishop,
John Toronto, had emigrated to the country, or had joined the Episcopal
body. Rev. J. Stewart, of Kingston, the father of the Archdeacon, came as
a missionary with the refugees, and consequently represented the established
church in America, more than subsequent incumbents appointed from the
old country, but the history of the church in this country dates to the acces
sion of William of Orange, in which some of the names, if not the direct an
cestors of our subject, suffered persecution for their faith.
This appears in the colonial documents. Vol. 3, page 673, describing
the events in New York which followed the English Revolution on 16th
August, 1689.
Depriving the Clergy of Canada of their land, although injudicious as a
measure of state, was of ultimate service to the Episcopal body, by remov
ing the prejudice among the community which the further possession of this
endowment would occasion.
Mr. Merritt published a pamphlet advocating reciprocity in manufac
tures, after the principle of the far-famed Zolverin, which was so successful
in North Germany, entitled, "Remarks on the Extension of Reciprocity be
tween Canada and the United States, (now Comprised in the Gro-wth and
Produce of each,) to the Manufactures, Shipping and Coasting, and Estab.
lishing a Commercial System Adapted to Geographical Position of Canada,
by Wm. Hamilton Merritt,"
First, the report commences by pointing out the causes which diverted
the trade ofthe St. Lawrence; also its diminution with Great Britain, — her
North American possessions — the West India Isles, and all other parts of
the world.
Under free trade, we have lost all direct foreign intercourse by the St.
Lawrence, and the capital expended in our canals, connecting that river,
without creating a single cotton, woolen or iron manufactory, a home
market, or any other equivalent whatever.

413
These disastrous results were not caused by the adoption of the principle
of free trade, the soundness of wMch cannot be controverted. The name
has been used without its spirit ; free trade without removing customs
duties is a fallacy. The effect of the policy of the late Sir Robert Peel, not
to extort Reciprocity from other countries, was to lessen the price of the pro
ductions of Canada one-fifth (the exact amount of the duty imposed) as com
pared with the like articles in the United States. If, therefore, it was the
'interest of Great Britain to adhere to this policy, it is clear that the princi
ple cannot apply, or that the commercial interest of the United Kingdom
and Canada are averse to each other.
Journal, Nov. 29.
" We give to-day a pamphlet by the Hon. W. H. Merritt, including the
report of the Committee on Commerce, on which we alluded in our last
number, and beg leave to direct the attention of our readers on section the
, 4th on manufactures. By this will be seen the great disparity between the
duties imposed by the two countries, and the remedy proposed, viz., laying
the same duties on manufactures here, as are laid on by the UMted States.
" Also a number of local bills, amongst which was a petition from Dr. T.
Mack and others praying for a grant of incorporation for a Marine Hospital
at St. Catharines."
The House closed on the 18th Dec, after ha-ving accomplished a great
deal of legislation. The Crimean struggle still lasted before Sebastopol,
and the thrilling news of the desperate engagement at Inckerman had just
arrived in time to furnish a fruitful topic for the holidays.

1855.
Mr. Merritt returned home on the adjournment of the House, and the
holidays were passed in the usual way, with visitors and other amusements.
Our subject's health was a little disturbed at this time, and rest from
the continual bustle of business and politics was much needed. One of his
first acts was in looking after the W. R, R., and we find him going with
the engineer, Mr. Woodruff, to Slab Town to see the location of the line to
.Port Colbome, going up the mountain. The winter this year was extremely
cold, so that very little progress was made.
Journal, Jan. 4.
" The Adjournment. — The Provincial Parliament stands adjourned
till the 23rd Feb., and it now remains for both parties in the House, as|also
for the country to refiect on the past, and form plans for the future. The
Opposition will have time to chew the cud of sweet and bitter meditation,
while the party in power will have time to arrange those measures still in
abeyance, some of which are of constitutional importance to the country ;
as, for instance, the formation of the Legislative Council, on a basis more in
keeping with the elective principle now prominent in all our institutions.

414
* * This can be the only justfication for the course adopted by those
gentlemen who have lately joined the AdmiMstration, at the expense of
their party.
Journal, Jan. 25.
" We look for a large increase of emigration to tMs country for many
years to come, of the very best material. It will be increased mainly by the
Know NotMng, and Native Americanism of the United States. Here, this
class of personsare perfectly at home, they have no time to spend in order
to enjoy and exercise all the rights of citizenship. Here, also, every man
is placed on equal terms before law, as it regards religion, and long may it
be so; and we venture to say it will continue to be so, not-withstanding the
efforts made by some few of our public men."
On the 26th February he left for Quebec, going by way of the border
States, accompanied by the author.
During the adjournment of the House, Lord Elgin had left the country,
and was succeeded by Sir Edmund Head.
The great Paris Exposition caused some stir this year, our subject havmg
in the last year received a commission as one of the delegates from Canada,
but which he declined to accept, and the author being anxious to visit Eu
rope, accompanied Mm to Quebec, and, through his influence, got the com
mission, and leave of absence for the purpose ; but on a closer examination
of the matter at head quarters, he found that Canadians had no fair repre
sentations, as, with the exception of Mr. Tache, there were no prominent
men on the commission for her, so that his anxiety to visit foreign parts
cooled, and he declined to use the commission of representmg the country.
In Parliament little was done save passing a Militia Act, in accordance
with the request of Earl Grey's report.
The greatest activity prevailed in business circles, as everything was
now moving at railway speed. On the 8th of March, during our subject's
absence, the great Suspension Bridge over the Niagara River was opened
for railroad traffic, the first train of passengers having passed over inside of
six montlis from the opemng of the G. W. R. R. It was well and truly
said to be a great undertaking, reflecting credit on all concerned in its con
struction. The subject of water works was brought before the people of St. Catha,
rines, and £100 voted for survey ofthe same. A proposition was also carried
by the Council to appropriate another £25,000 in aid of the W. R. R. A
$100,000 obtained from the Municipal Loan Fund having been expended
on gas stock and in other local improvements. It explained that unless
the asked-for £25,000 was forthcoming, the sum already spent on the road
would be lost. In consequence of this, a by-iaw was submitted to the
people, but was negatived by a majority; the same by-law was again sub
mitted towards the end of the year and passed.
The gas works of St. Catharines was now iu operation, and 36 street

415
lanrps, and the lighting of the canal and Thorold, added to the attractions
of the locality. Another important local event was the opening of the
Stephenson House and mineral baths, followed soon after by the Welland
House. Great exertions were made to complete those buildings,|as, since
the railways were finished, a great many travellers stopped at St. 'Catha
rines. The mineral waters of this town owe their celebrity to the fact
that numerous cures of long standing diseases have been effected by their
use. For many years the medicinal uses of the water were unknown beyond
the locality, until W. H. Merritt, Jun., returned from Germany. His expe
rience at the watering places there caused him to remark the resemblance
the water bore to those; he induced Col. Stephenson to go on with the hotel,
which, bearing his name, is now a monument to his enterprise. Since then
the great establishment of the Spring Bank has been perfected, and as an
hotel and sanatorium, under the scientific management of Dr. Theophilus
Mack, M. D., has acquired a reputation unrivalled on the continent, as
every appliance which science can brimg to the aid of the afflicted may be
found here.
On the declaration of war, the Allied fleets in the Central Pacific, sailed
to the Siberian coast, and appeared before the Prussian possessions in Asia,
and, after a naval and land engagement, in which several vessels were
destroyed, they departed, leaving the approaching winter to complete the
blockade. Towards the close of the war, another and more numerous expe
dition went over the same route, and attacked Petropaulaski, which they
burned and afterwards blew up, thereby destroying for the time all Russian
power on the Pacific. After accomplishing these feats, the fleets departed,
and on the proclamation of peace, the Russians again entered into possession
of their territory. It may seem beyond the purpose of a work of this kind
to mention those matters, but it is done to shew that had Great Britain any
solicitude for her American possessions, she would have made Canada a
present of Alaska, and we doubt if at the time any nation would have ques
tioned her right to do so. Since then it has been purchased by the U. S.
Government, and now remains a standing thorn on our most northern boun
dary, and a monument of British thoughtlessness towards the ultimate
interests of her distant dependencies.
During this sessson, he, as chairman of the Finance Committee, opened
correspondence with the proper parties in the dift'erent B. A, ColoMes, in
cluding the West Indies, in reference to the state of their trade. He also
published his views on the subject of Intercolonial trade, shewing the many
advantages Canada might derive from a closer connection with her sister
colonies. In response to the circular. Earl Grey, the Colonial Minister,
expressed his dissent, and the matter dropped, so that we doubt if we are any
nearer to the accomplishment of this idea yet.

416
In a letter from Quebec, he thus expresses Ms views on the present
state of affairs, and considering the change brought about by confederation,
we may state that the ideas are almost prophetic.
" 20th May — The session has been very long and unsatisfactory, and I
am pleased to think it near its* close. The Union will be dissolved before
five years, and I question whether another session of Upper Canada members
will ever sit again."
From the earnest manner in which the other colonies entered mto our
subject's ideas on free trade, it would seem to deserve more than a passing
notice, and shews that however willing Great Britain was to extend her
Own trade, the Imperial Govemment were not so anxious that the colonies
could act in the same manner towards one another. We are sorry that Mr.
M.'s statements did not turn out as he wished, and can only see in tMs
case an unnecessary piece of Imperial acting, assisted by men in Canada,
whose position should have made them legislate for Canada_/srs<. We know
that our subject felt greatly annoyed at the action of the Government in the
matter, and although we occasionally hear something about colonial trade,
yet the following despatch wiU convince those Canadian well-wishers that
there are other influences to be appealed to before the object is accomplished.
The following from the Colonial Minister is quoted: —
(Circular.) "Downing Street, llth Aug., 1855.
" Sir, — Her Majesty's Government would regard the proposed arrange
ment as very objectionable ; on the grounds, first, that it would separate
commercially, so far as such an arrangement is concerned, the colonies who
entered into it from the rest of the empire ; Secondly, that it would be
injurious, not only to the interest of the consumers in the colonies, who
were a party to the arrangement, but to the interests of the producers in
every other part of the Empire ; and thirdly, that it would be inconsistent
with the Imperial policy of Free Trade.
"It is the earnest desire of Her Majesty's Government to maintam and
extend a course of policy which shall closely uMte together by ties of mu
tual interest the whole of Her Majesty's Colonial Empire with the mother
country. To such a policy any measures tending to form the colonies into
separate groups with peculiar and exceptional commercial relations, would
be opposed, and Her Majesty's Government, therefore, trust that they will
not be asked to submit for Her Majesty's approval Acts or Ordinances
giving effect to measures of that character.
•' I have the honor to be, sir,
" Your most obedient and humble servant,
" (Signed) WM. MOLESWORTH."
" Sir Edmund Head, Governor, kc, kc, Canada."
On Nov. 22nd, the report of W. R, R. Engineer says : 
" Iron is laid down ; we have got the right of way to Thorold Station,
nearly 6 miles; 9J acres, to St. Cathaiines, cost $824, and 10 acres more
costing $1200."

417
. Jmumxd, Dec. 6th.
" On the completion of the Railroad from Port Dalhousie. A vote of
the tax-payers of this town was taken, last Thursday, confirming a by-law,
granting £25,000 in addition to the same sum, voted some time ago, to
buUd a railroad and buy a boat, uniting St. Catharines with Toronto.
There is no use now in any party regretting this investment on the part of
the tax-payers that the work be promoted and finished as soon as possible.
The calculations which have been submitted, in order to induce men to
withhold their opposition, may or may not be realized ; but the sooner the
road and boat are put into operation the better.
Journal, December 13th.
"The Hon. W. H. Merritt's policy. — The late annunciation of Mr.
Merritt's policy, urging the extension of Reciprocity to manufacturers, as
well as every other thing, does not meet with the approbation of the Pro
vincial Press, as we see by our exchanges. By some it is thought imprac
ticable, situated as we are in reference to Great Britain, and by others shows
folly, supposing no such difficulty existed as that presented by colomal posi
tion. " There is, however, an almost united testimony given in favour of pro
tecting our manufacturers, and in decrying our present duty of 1 2|^ per cent.
as amounting to anytMng in the shape of protection."
In the middle of December, the R. R. from Hamilton to Toronto was
opened -with great ceremonies, and the author was pleased to meet Mr. Bidwell
of New York, there. In a letter to our subject at the time, Mr, Bidwell
says : — " I should not have gone if I had not expected to meet the leader
of internal improvements."- This letter refers to the changes observable in
all the railroad celebrations, wherein, with the income of British capital,
also came new management, totally_ ignoring the pioneers of improvements,
only to be followed by the general suicidal competition of railroads to our
water commumcation by the St. Lawrence.

1856.
In the formation of the St. Catharines Council this year, two rising
young men make their first appearance, viz., Mr. J. G. Currie and W.
McGiverin — Mr. Rykert and Merritt being Reeves.
At the meeting of the stockholders of the Niagara District Bank, our
subject was chosen President.
Now comes the gratifying news of the European quiet ; the popularity
of Walker's filibustering campaign in Central America is also on the wane,
and the dove of peace appears with the opening spring, attended with itu
usual prosperity.

418
On 26th May, a change of Ministry took place, in consequence of the
resignation of Sir Allan MacNab. In June the railroad to Port Dalhousie
was opened.
The House assembled again in .June, when an alteration in the charter
of the W. R, R. was asked for, requesting an extent of capital. An offer
was made to transfer the management to the town, as the Council were in
creasing in their opposition to the directors.
Mr. Merritt brought in an Act to incorporate the Queenston and St
Catharines Railway Company, but the scheme failed so entirely that they
were never able to commence it.
His labours during the session comprised many useful moves — such
as a written constitution, and preserving the lands for education.
The House was prorogued on the 3rd July. Soon afterwards he left
for England by way of New York, sailing on the steamer Africa on 24th
July. His mission to England was for the purpose of getting stock for the
enlargement of the W. R R. and other matters. He arrived safe in Liver
pool on 3rd August after a rapid passage.
Arriving in London on the Slst, he stopped at his new quarters,
the British Coffee House, Cockspur Street. Aftpr attending to the business
of his mission, and finding some time must elapse before anything could be
done, he accepted an invitation to visit Wales, and see the great Mema
Bridge. His travelling companions were Sir Cusack and Lady Roney,
Messrs. Gait, Ross, Holmes, and a son of the Hon. R. Baldwin. They also
visited the slate quarries at Carnarvon, and the public works at Holy Head,
and on returmng he went to see the steamsMp Great Eastern, then building,
and expresses himself pleased with his- trip.
As an inducement to the English capitalists, Mr. M. had truthfully
represented to them that the corporation of St. Catharines had taken $200,-
000 stock in the R. R. The capitalists on their part from general principles,
took the balance of the stock, which amounted to two-thirds of the whole.
During his stay he visited, on invitation, Mr. Betts, the contractor, also
Sir J. Easthope, at his seat in Weybridge. In this manner he passed his
time, not without a view to the object of his mission, lliese gentlemen
were of essential service to him, and at a meeting -with Mr. Dales, the con
tractor, they agreed with him to take ten per cent, of the stock, and finish
the road for the capital subscribed, Mr. Benjamin Dales preceding our sub
ject to America on this business. His object being now accomplished, he
prepared to return, and left Liverpool on the 15th October, arriving in St.
Catharines on the 2nd November.
During his absence the fine steamer Welland. was burned at her wharf
at Port Dalhousie, involving a serious loss to the owners.
His return is thus referred to by the Journal, December llth : —

410

St. Catharines and Progress. — Mr. M. deserves well of the whole com
munity, for the successful efforts he has made in connection -with the pro
jected road. Our four miles -would not have paid. -» * * We h»pe
the people will duly appreciate the services of Mr. M."
At the request of the Mechanics' Institute he delivered the opening lec
ture for the year, choosing for his subject, " Canada, her Position and Pros
pects." At the close of the month, a public dmner was tendered to Mm,
which he declined with thanks.

18 5 7.
On February 19 th, appeared the abstract of the balance sheet of
the financial state of the town, sho-wing that the expenditure for local im
provements in 1856 amounted to the enormous sum of $197,237.26, or nearly
half the amount of the whole debt contracted for improvements. The finan
cial crisis occurring in the latter part of this year, rendered economical mea
sures necessary, -with what success this duty was performed remains to be
seen. The members chosen were E. S. Adams, T. R. Merritt, M. Battle,
J. G. Currie, Wm. McGiverin, Wm. Davis, R. Collier, P, Marren and F.
Stinson. Mr. Merritt considered the supplying of coal for the use of Canada would
form one of the sources of revenue for the Welland Railway, through a short
branch at the northern terminus, the altitude would be obtained, sufficient
to throw it into the holds of vessels.
The House was opened in Toronto on the 15th Feb'y, by Sir E. Head,
the new Governor. After the usual speech, which echoed the remarks of
Ms predecessor, congratulating the House on the Clergy Reserves settlement
the Elective Council and the Seignorial Tenure. Important papers were
laid before the House containing desp-atches from England in reference to
the actions of our subject, as Prosideiit of the Finance Committee in the
matter of intercolonial free trade, already referred to.
Hon. Mr. Morris, of Brockville, writes on January 8th, in reference to
the pamphlet of last year : — " Your quiet hit on Hincks was capital. The
seed of intercolonial free trade has taken root in Barbadoes, and do what
he may, he cannot now retard its growth."
A meeting of the Town Council was held for the purpose of endeavour
ing to withdraw their stock from the W. R. R., and dispose of the same.
In striking contrast with former articles on the subject of this railroad, we
quote from the Journal, May 14th : — "There is a fearful day of reckoning
at hand for those who have induced municipalities like ours to become

420
gamblers in railroads. Honest men will not only hkve to pay their own
liabilities, but we fear will have to pay those of others," kc.
Comment on such articles is unnecessary, after those quoted from the
same journal in favour of the representations used by our subject in getting
the stock taken in England, founded on the former view.
The loss of the steamer Welland, and another difficulty with the G. W..
R., whose manager refused to allow the line to cross his own on a level,
after many thousands of pounds had been expended in that grade, made it
necessary for Mr. Merritt to think of again returning to England for the
purpose of putting more stock on the market, as that already subscribed
was not sufficient to complete the road.
By the wishes of the English stockholders, during the session an Act
was passed allowing the W, R. R. Co. to increase their stock by $300,000 ;
$200,000 was reserved for England and the balance was to be taken in Canada.
On the 14th August, after hearing our subject's explanations, it was re
solved by the Toronto Board of Trade that that city should take $50,000
stock in the W. R. R.; a similar encoui-agement was received from other
cities interested, which we regret to say has never been carried out. He
set out for a second journey to England soon after.
In writing from London, he says that the first Sunday he spent was in
a visit to Windsor, to see his old friend Col. Fitzgibbon.
In the summer the author was sent to prospect the coal regions of Penn-
sylvama, and ascertain the nearest point of production, with the intention
of effecting a communication with Lake Erie. This point was found to be
near the Alleghany, on Tuningwant Run, 100 miles south of Dunkirk.
Before leaving New York, our subject writes to the author, asking Mm
again to visit the coal mines of Pennsylvania, and gather all the informa
tion possible about the prospect of procuring the coal used in Canada, by
way of the Welland R. R.
The arrangements with the Erie R. R. were made, and other connections
about being formed, when the hard times broke them up, and put a stop to
further proceedings, the Branch alluded to never having been completed.
On the arrival of our subject in Tiverpeol, 6th Sept., he -writes, saying : —
"The news from India is by no means encouraging for my object; spending
money to burn gunpowder has a tendency to make it scarce and dear. I
will not likely write again until my return." In this he was mistaken, as
the state of the money market compelled him to remain in England the
entire winter and ensuing Spring.
Immediately on his arrival, before the close of September, he succeeded
in obtaining £3,000 from Dales the contractor, which he remitted to Canada,
but too late to prevent the stoppage of the work on the road, which occurred
in October. '

421
A meeting of the shareholders was held in London, and was attended by
Sir C. P. Roney and eight others; after hearing his explanations, they agreed
to issue bonds for £20,000, for the progress of the work. On 10th Oct., he
found that Dales and Co. were unable to raise the money to fulfil their con
tract. He left London for Scotland, and during the journey, stopped at diffe
rent cities, and endeavoured to float bonds.
In September the first tidings of the approaching flnancial crisis in the
U, S, had reached Canada, and the alarming news that seven banks had
aheady suspended payment caused an uneasy feeling throughout the land.
In St. Catharines a large sum, far exceeding the abilities of the rate
payers, was spent principally in work on St. Paul Street, and the system
of borrowing pursued by the Council, afterwards led to many difficulties.
On the first of November, the people had to regret the death of George
Rykert, Esq., the President of the W. R. R., a life-long resident of St.
Catharines, and one always closely identifled with the progress of the town,
in many useful acts, politically and otherwise, esteemed by our subject for
his many good qualities, and mourned for by a large circle of friends.
In consequence of his speech to the electors after the dissolution occa
sioned by the defeat of the Hincks the Cabinet, in which he said it was not
his intention to offer again for the constituency, he left the matter to the
decision of Ms friends, and devoting himself entirely to the railway, took
no great interest in the matter.
Journal, 17th December says : —
" The writs for this county have been received. The nomination will
probably take place next Wednesday. We would advise the friends of Mr.
Merritt to commence work immediately. Those in the western part of
the county are holding meetings every night, aud unless the friends of hon
esty and consistency work, the representation may be lost to them,"

18 5 8.
In March, appeared the town Auditor's report, showing a reduction in
the expenditure of over one-half of the former year, and an increase of the
debt of $44,039.16. Under ordinary circumstances, this would have been
considered a favourable exhibit, all the improvements for affording ready
access to the town being completed, and at this time paying an encouraging
amount of interest. But under the circumstances of the times it produced
a panic, for which our subject was held responsible, and right or wrong, must
provide a remedy ; a view which, considering the sacrafices, he was now
making for them and the country at large, was unreasonable inthe extreme.

422
A short time previous to Mr. Merritt's arrival, a meeting of the town
council was held, in which it was ordered that the Finance Committee make
the best terms they can with their creditors (who were J. H. Cameron and
others,) and, failing in this, to purchase any town property offered by the
Sheriff. In March he returned to London, having disposed of $175,000 worth of
bonds. In London, prior to leaving, he attended the meeting of the civil
engineers with many of them, from the congeniality of their pursuits, he had
formed an acquaintance.
During his absence, another election took place, as noticed in the previous
page, and although opposed by Messrs, Clark and Morse, yet he was returned
by a majority of 77 over both candidates.
On 21st May, he arrived home, and at once took his seat in the Parlia
ment, where he was occupied until the l6th August.
One of the excitements of this session was the formation of a new Canadian
Ministry, which occurred about the end of July, and was known astheBrown-
Dorion Govemment. A strange political farce occurred immediately after its
formation, which ended its brief existence of one day, and caused Messrs.
McDOnald and Cartier to return to office.
lOth August, W. Merritt, Jun. was sent to England, to endeavour to sell
the remaining stock, $1,000,000, which was now necessary, owing to the re
sponsibilities undertaken by our subject whilst in England.
In August 5th the first and only message received for many years arrived
over the Atlantic Telegraph, then considered successfully laid.
On the 19th of Sept. the residence of Mr. M. was destroyed by fire, with
a portion of its contents, the author being the only one of the family at home
during the occurence.
Our subject being interested in doing justice to the American refugees,
and to perpetuate the memory of their participation in the conquest ef Canada,
and the subject of centenary observances having favour among the people,
it was thought the taking of Niagara by Sir Wm. Johnson would be a proper
date to commemorate, but was neglected from operations there.
On 8th Oct. the W. R. R. was formally opened throughout, being honoured
with a visit from the Governor General.
Being opposed to a Confederacy scheme, our subject, the late session, moved
the following as an amendment ta Mr. Gait's motion relative to a Federal
Union :
" Hon. Mr. Merritt moved that the following words be added to the
said resolution, and that the said committee do also take into consideration
tbe propriety of presenting an humble address to Her Majesty, praying that
Her Majesty will be graciously pleased to authorize His Excellency the
Governor General to direct that fifty Delegates be appointed by the British

423
North American Provinces, in such manner as His Excellency may direct,
and that the number of Delegates assigned to each Province shall be in
proportion to its population ; and that the Delegates so appointed shall, at
the command of His Excellency the Governor General, meet in convention
at such time and place as his Excellency may designate for the purpose of
framing such a Constitution or Constitutions for the said Provinces as will,
in the judgment of the said delegates, conduce to the general welfare of the
inhabitants thereof ; and that the proceedings of the said Convention shall,
by His Excellency, be transmitted to the Imperial Government for the sanc
tion ofthe Imperial Parliament."
On Nov. 24th, the author attended the centenary celebration at Pitts
burgh, Penn.
During the Winter St. Catharines suffered heavily by a number of disas
trous fires feared to be the work of incendiaries. The most serious one occurred
on the 30th Jan., when 16 stores and other buildings were consumed, involving
alossof nearly $100,000.

1859.
In January of this year Mr. W. Merritt, Jr., returned from England,
without accomplishing the object of his mission to his satisfaction ; yet the
prospects for the railroad on the opening of navigation were good, aud the
likelihood of a good trade being done in transhipping grain, as the capacity of
the elevators were about 5,000 bushels per hour, which were satisfaetorily
tested on the 5th of April, when the first vessel was emptied of her cargo.
On the 4th of May the House adjourned, after passing 60 Bills. The
legislation was not of a very important character, as the time of the members
was principally taken up with discussion on the question of a permanent seat
of Government. On the 20th of May appeared for the first time the St. Catharines Daily
Jowrnal, under the proprietorship of Mr, W. Grant.
In July of this year. Mens. Bloudin visited the Falls of Niagara, and, in
presence of assembled thousands, walked across the mighty chasm, which
divides Canada from the United States, on a cable stretched from side to side.
On the 10th of August, our subject again left Canada for England, on
business connected with the railroad; this time the author accompanied him.
They crossed in the S. S, Anglo Saxon from Quebec, meeting her consort ship
coming out, in mid ocean. Arriving in Liverpool after a short passage, they
at once proceede(i to London, where r. M. turned his sole attention to the
object of his visit.
On the 13th October whilst Mr. M. was in England the grand monument
to the memory of General Brock was completed, and inaugurated with imposing
ceremonies, in the presence of a vast concourse of people.

424
We deem it necessary at this period to digress somewhat from our narrative,
in order to call the attention of those of our readers who take any interest in
the early history of the country to some important matters connected therewith.
During the administration of Lord Dalhousie in 1824, a society called the Lite
rary and Historical Society of Quebec was founded and received the patronage
of succeeding Governors. From the period of the Union, it became the appli
cant and receiver of annual grants of money from the Legislature, for the pur
pose of collecting manuscripts and other documents appertaining to Canadian
History. As this society was distant from Upper Canada, and appeared to
identify itself with French Canadian History, the author, in 1858, whilst
the Parliament was in Toronto, succeeded, through the influence of our sub
ject, io getting copies of historical data, (before not allowed) out of the Crown
Lands' Office, and the Registrar General's Department and others, regarding
the early settlers and their proceedings. In consequence of this, on the removal
of the Parliament to Quebec, in the same year a grant of money was left with
Mr. Ryerson, through which a valuable collection of historical works on Cana
dian History were purchased for the Normal School.
During the session of the next Parliament, which was held at Quebec, the
anther circulated a petition praying that the House ask that more attention
be paid to Upper Canadian history. This petition was prasented by Mr. Mer
ritt, and, with his usual energy, succeeded in getting a majority of English
speaking members on the Library Committee, which heretofore had been exclu
sively French. This unexpected success led to the author being appointed
to look after Upper Canada documentary history in England and elsewhere ;
fpr this purpose, he, (in company with his fat her,) visited England.
The author opened a correspondence with the Colonial Office, of which the
Duke of Newcastle was the head, for permission to examine the colonial docu
ments. While awaiting this he attended the British Museum, London Institu
tion, (fee, when, having received permission for that search in the official docu
ments, he procured copyists, and succeeded in getting transcripts from an
immense amount of history connected with the early settlement of this country,
which, on his return to Canada, was deposited in the Parliamentary library,
and now forms a portion of the 10,000 folio pages of manuscript known as the
Coventry documents, the publications from which will be very useful to readers
of early history, as they have already been a valuable foundation for historians
to work upon. It is needless to add that our subject took a lively interest in
this matter, which increased with his declining years, and lead him to attend
the meeting in Toronto, for establishing a Historical Society two years later.
After an absence of three months, during which he took a look at Paris,
the author returned, leaving Mr. M. An instalment of money for the Rail-
foad, much needed, arrived from England at the same time.
On the 14th December, a meeting of t he English shareholders of the W.

425
B. R. was held in London, at which our subject was present, almost every
thing in connection with the management was discussed, and a good feeling re
garding the road prevailed. Mr Merritt Jr. was chosen manager ; our subject also
received the thanks of the directors for his conduct in connection with the same.
It cannot but be unpleasant for the biographer to record that, after a life
spent faithfully, we believe, iu the service of his country, and particularly so
in his native town, himself and family were the subjects of financial embarrass
ment. During the absence of our subject, his son William managed the affairs of
the road, and, for lack of the expected remittances from England, had a hard
struggle, having to keep the trains going with his own private funds. How
ever, a large business was doing on the road, which helped a little to stem the
current, now surging incessantly against the enterprise. The troubles brought
about by the sheriff having levied on our subject's premises, caused Mrs. Merritt
and her son to visit Mayville, where she disposed of her own property to
meet the threatened execution.
We find the following in the Journal of Aug. 29th: —
"At a meeting of the town Council, the following communication from Hon.
W. H. Merritt, now in England, stating that he,had been assessed on personal
property to the extent of $10,000, which is a greater amount than he owns,
and is exceeded by Ms debts."
The statement was supported by the following affidavit, viz : —
" Hiram Slate of tho town of St. Catharines, swears that he was in the employ
of Mr. Merritt, as clerk, at the time the assessment for the present year was
taken, and furnished the assessors with a statement of Mr. M. 's personal pro
perty, and that at the time the said statement was furnished, the debts owed
by hira exceeded the value of his eutire personal property, and that the same
debts remain unpaid, and further, that the facts as set forth in the petition of
Mr. Merritt, relating to the assessment against him, are true in every particular.
"HIRAM SLATE."
At the same meeting the following resolution was passed, viz.
" Moved by Mr. McGiverin, .seconded by Mr. Marren, — that on the 10th
day of August, 1858, this corporation having contracted a loan of the Hod.
W. H. Merritt for the sum of $28,000, payable in fifteen months after date,
which matures on the 10th day of November next, this corporation deem it
expedient to take the sense of the ratepayers, whether the corporation shall
assume the payment of the said sum, and that the Mayor be, and is hereby
authorized to issue his proclamation, naming the first of October next for the
taking of such vote — Carried.''
The result of this was that before the time of meeting arrived, a petition
signed by Mr. S. D. Woodruff and 85 others was originated, calling a special
meeting of the Council for the following reasons, as stated in the petition —
" Council Chamber, Sept. 30th.
" A special meeting of the Council was held this evening at which the Mayor,
Messrs. Battle, Stinson, Collier, Marren, McGiverin, Currie, Dougan and Dunn
were present, to consider the following petition : —

426
" To the Mayor and Council of the Town of St. Catharines :
" Gentlemen, — We, the undersigned ratepayers, respectfully submit, iu
regard to the action about to be taken in reference to the stock held by this
town in the Welland Railway, beg that your honourable body will postpone any
decision being had, as we believe that the Hon. W. H. Merritt will dispose of
the said stock in the best manner, as may be for the interests of the town.
Under the circumstances, we feel disposed to allow him to exercise his own
judgment in the matter." Signed by S, D. Woodruff and 85 others.
After some discussion on the above, the following resolution, moved by Mr.
McGiverin, and seconded by Mr. Collier, was submitted and carried : —
" In compliance with a unanimously signed petition of the ratepayers of
this municipality, the Council deem it expedient to postpone the vote proposed
to be taken to-morrow, as to the final disposition of the railway stock held by
the Hon. W. H. Merritt, with a view of ascertaining whether such stock can
be disposed of by Mr. M. while in England.
At this meeting the resolution was passed, with but one dissenting voice,
which was that of Mr. Currie.
"It was then moved by Mr. Currie in amendment, and seconded by Mr.
Dougan, (the mover and seconder being the only persons,) favouring the
measure, ' That Mr. Merritt be notified by the clerk that it is not the inten
tion of this Council to re-purchase the railway stock heretofore transferred by
the town to him.' Lost,"
He writes from England at this time, regretting his absence, and wishing
he could possibly be home at Christmas, also mentions calling upon young
Alfred Rykert, who was then sick in London. The year closed without
any important event occurring.
On the 24th of Nov , to the gratification of many, the first train of cars
passed safely over the great Victoria Bridge at Montreal.

18 6 0.
The Parliament assembled in Quebec during February, but little was don g
save a motion from George Brown, praying for a dissolution of the Union, and
the establishment of some just authority in accordance with the decision of con
vention, a proceeding which strangely verifies the remarks of our subject given
in previous pages.
At the same time our subject was anxiously expected out, and the rail
road matter deterred him from taking passage on board of the ill-fated steamer
Hungarian, which foundered off Cape Sable with all on board.
Mr. Merritt arrived in March, much to the joy of his family and friends,
who almost imagined him lost in one of the ill-fated Canadian steamships,
of which three had perished within a short period. On his return he was
grieved to find Mrs. Merritt in failing health, the cares imposed on her
during his many journeys, added to the loss of her commodious residence

4Q7
afflicted her now, at a time, when the troubles which might, at an earlier
period, have been borne with equanimity.
On the 19th of April, our subject appeared in his place in Parliament.
The session, generally speaking, had so far been unimportant. The seat of
Government question, the intended visit of the Prince of Wales, and other
matters comprised the legislation. On the question of a dissolution
of the Union he voted with the forty who were in its favour, doing so from
a firm belief that the Union had been of doubtful benefit to any except the
French Canadians. He also endeavoured to obtain Government aid to the
Welland R. R. in their embarrassed condition, but failed. This was his
last act in the House of Assembly. The House closed on the 19th May.
On the 19th May, a vessel of 400 tons was launched by L. Schickluna,
in St. Catharines,, named the Pride of Canada, and, freighted with a valu
able cargo, she sailed direct for England.
Previous to Mr. Merritt's return from Quebec, his son William, his real
representative in private and public affairs, was prostrated by a branial
stroke ; he rallied for a time, on the night when our subject got home, but
on the 26th of May, peacefully expired, his death no doubt hastened by Ms
financial troubles, connected with his obligations to the Welland R. R., in
which his entire private fortune was involved.
Of Ms character as an individual it is unnecessary to speak, suffice it
that as churchwarden and councillor he was an estimable and enterprising
man, was umversally acknowledged by the press at this time, and people
of his native town have given repeated testimony of his worth.
The loss of Ms son had a great effect on Mr. Merritt, whose usually
strong constitution seemed now completely upset. In August he went to
Quebec to be present with the members of Parliament to receive H. R. H,,
the Prince of Wales. The change for the time assisted to lift the trouble
from Ms sorely afflicted mind. He also attended the Oswego Board of
Trade. After the Prince of Wales left, he visited many places in the West,
during a week's absence, on a tour of the lake ports.
On the 29th of September, he was elected by acclamation to tbe Legis
lative Council for this district at AUanburgh.
Under the superintendence of the author, the ruins of his late residence
were cleared off, and a new mansion built on the same site, which the
family occupied in the Fall of this year.
The moving and excitement of the time seemed to benefit his health,
but the shock his system underwent at the death of his son, and the other
troubles he was subjected to, at length seemed to tell on his iron constitu
tion, which plainly shewed that a busy and eventful life, even though
devoted to the amelioration of his kind, is not spent without the ordinary
penalties attached to humaMty.

428
Mrs. M. also at this time became unwell, and for a year before her demise
was incapable of walking about. Mrs. Merritt's medical advisers tried
the galvanic cure, and on one occasion Mr. M. decided upon the same, but
after trying the battery, he was seized with paralysis, which affected his
speech, and the use of one arm, from which he never completely recovered.
At times our subject felt well enough to take short trips along the canal
or railroad, over the scenes of his busier days.
During this Winter, in a quiet way, our subject advised the establishing
of a line of large sized propellers in connection with the W. B. R., an idea
which was afterwards put in use, and proved of great advantage. He also
advocated the building and equipping of a line of vessels from Dunkirk to
Port Colbome, for the purpose of carrying the bituminous coal, which is
found in abundance in Pennsylvania. This idea has never been acted upon,.
and the large business which might be carried on here, is suffered to find
ofh.er routes.

1861.
Sir E. Head, the Governor, who had gone to England during the Win
ter, returned in March, and soon after called the Parliament together. Mr.
M. was present at the opening, and took his seat as a Legislative Councillor,
for the first time. Whilst in Quebec, our subject opened a correspondence
with the Board of Trade of Detroit, and others, in reference to the trade of
the St. Lawrence. During this correspondence we find that he goes
minutely into all details concerning trade and navigation, and proves con
clusively that the only direct and cheap route to the ocean is by the St. Law
rence. He also had several inter^views •with the Government relative to deep
ening the St. La^wrence; and, in fact, it would seem as if his entire thoughts
at this time was turned towards those ideas, which he had clung to during
Ms life. During his absence, his afflicted spouse did not improve, and in
one of her letters to our subject she says : — " Is it possible that I am here
yet. I have lived through another long Winter, for what purpose my God
only knows. I hope and trust that I will fulfil all his designs towards me,
so that I may finish my course with joy.''
The House closed in June, and after Mr. M. spending a short time at
home, he decided upon going to see his friends in New Brunswick. He
went the entire journey by steamboat via Quebec to St. Johns, where he
received a hearty and joyous welcome ; yet his thoughts were homeward,
and, after remaining a few days, he returned, coming by railroad. On
reaching Brockville, he remained for a day to rest, and then came on to
St. Catharines.

429
On his return he was gratified to find that the railway was doing a good
business, and he firmly believed that it would not take long to get over all
its troubles. He afterwards went to Quebec and endeavoured to organize
a company, to be known as the St. Lawrence Navigation Co., whose vessels
were to carry grain from Port Dalhousie to Europe. The offers of aid to
this scheme were large, but the death of our subject seems to have put an
end to it for the present. In September he was -visited by his friend. Chief
Justice Haliburton, "Sam Slick," of N. S., who expressed himself delighted
with St. Catharines and its environs.
The health of our subject was visibly declining during the year, so that
he did not identify himself with local matters beyond the railroad.

1864.
On the 10th of January, he experienced another sad blow, in the loss
of Mrs. Merritt, who died rather suddenly, as she had been out in her car
riage the day previous. She was in the 69th year of her age, and it is un
necessary to say that her de^th was mourned by a large circle particularly
the poorer class, whom for many years she had befriended in almost every
walk of life.
The few months which now remained to complete the earthly sphere of
our subject were spent in various ways — in close commuMon with Mmself,
and in putting his aflairs in order. At intervals he employed Mmself in
looking over some workmen under Alexander Boles, whom he had employed
a half century befere to sink an artesian salt well near his residence, occasion
ally he dictated letters to his Parliamentary friends, now on finance, again
on trade. With the approach of warm weather, his medical advisers recom
mended change of air, and he decided upon going to the sea side. He ar
rived in Port Hope, accompamed by his daughter-in-law, Mrs. Wm. Menitt,
and faithful secretary, F. Timmons. There he saw his old friend, and fel
low prisoner of 1814, Capt. Rowe, and also Mr. Coventry. At Brockville
he prepared a long document relative to inland na-vigation. He then went
on to Montreal, where he arrived very much worn out, but yet -with his
mental energy, and could hardly be pursuaded from going farther. In
Montreal, he called on some friends, and over-heated himself, which brought
on an attack of Erysipelas in the head ; the doctors gave him to understand
that his case was incurable, and advised his speedy return. He was carried
on board the steamer Champion, and on Sunday morning, the 5th July, as
that vessel was passing through the canal at Cornwall, almost -within sight
of the rapids, which had been his thoughts for a life time, the spirit so long
and so actively identified with this noble river, now took its flight, and W.
H. Merritt was numbered with the dead.

ERRATA

On page 159, for "Mr. Leslie," read, Mr. Lindsay.
On " 326, for " Mr. Lafonte," read, Mr. Lafontaine.
On " 11, for " Her Majesty's service," read. His Majesty's Service.

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