LP F 5012 Htbranj

KINGSTON, ONTARIO obertsojv*. Popular 30c Library

J. ROSS ROBERTSON, PUBLISHER ROBERTSON'S POPULAR LIBRARIES. Dollar Books Tor Fifteen Cents.

publication*, are all reprints of Robertson's I£ lb&M, IWi^JNi-, rn TV CENTS ONE DOLLAR, and §2 each, while^^^J^^-Robertson 8 ^seUs forf^^f^^^^^f each. If you cannot obtain copies from local dealers TWENTY F INTE m TI IRTY-EIVE CENTS ewa Company, Jordan Street, Toronto, or to the publisher. I diifeet to the Toronto N bZ all well the most popular and best selling books of the day. They are Robertson's books are and unabridged. printed!?cl?ar open type on good paper, and are complete-unchanged

15 cent Books. -TOM'S WIFE, AND HOW HE Robertson^ J- MANAGED HER. Husbands will appre- -DIRDS OF A FEATHER FLOCK ciate every l ine of this interesting novel. D TOGETHER. By Sothern, the celebrated CURLY TIM.—By Mrs. FRANCES renown in the play "Our Amer- comedian, whose *-) Hodgson Burnett, the George Eliot of " is world wide. ican Cousin America. |No collection of short stories the interest that these have. "HOLLY. A LOVE STORY.—BY created to U Mrs. F. H. Burnett. Dolly is superior DO IT.—BY s. Burnett has written best book, anything elsejthat_Mr :_ 1 Dai His in humpuroi rofitable fun. IS GRANDMOTHERS.—FULL interest from cover to cover. -rriEj^— i )RY.—BY H of j 1 Mrs. F. Jk . characters are Y MOTHER-IN-LAW.—-IT wonderfully Ti Ushers' Weekly. larity of this 1\1 mves a correct conception of the orthodox " There is no d mother-in-law—true to life. Every .son-in-law story."—N. Y.Hera shoidd buy, read, mark and learn. THAT LASS 0' LOWRIE'S.— ILDRETT^yIiRS. MARY J. -L By Mrs. Francis H. Burnett. " of a story like ' That Lass o is a peculiarly The publication M~ Holmes. "Mrs. Holmes world of liter- Her books are Lowrie's' is a red-letter day in the pleasant and fascinating writer. know of no more the rare faculty ature."—N. Y. Herald. "We always entertaining, and she has hand in the Eng-_ affections of her powerful work from a woman's of enlisting the sympathy and excepting the best of attention to her lish language, not even readers, and of holding their Boston Transcript. "The novel interest. George Elliot's."— pages with deep and absorbing fictions, and the! is one of the very best of recent con- novelist is hereafter a person of rank and ^pHAT^WIFE OF MINE .—THE sideration in letters."—Hartford Courant 1 orders for this book exceeded those , advance FALL OF THE of any book of the series. ^__ THE RISE AND J- MUSTACHE. By Robert I. Burdette, tin- OR, THE FIRST Humourist of the Burlington Haweye. Every -THEDANITES; lifetime of . cry for it. A 1 FAMILIES OF THE SIERRAS. By Joaquin one wants it. Children cover to fun for fifteen cents Miller. It is a book full of interest from

'

cover. , -MASi SLIMMENS WINDOW. THE HOOSIER SCHOOL MISS of thai -»- By Edward Eggleston, author published in the same cover TER This book is tale Roxy. The Hoosier Schonl-Mast ei " the companion story to bewitching as The Danites." It is of back country hie in the West Bobbet's." is a description " My Opinions and Betsy The reader will find m it the verj ern States. humor OR, acme of keen wit and genial 'THE PHANTOM WEDDING ; 1 FALL OF THE HOUSE OF FLINT. THE American n's 20 cent Books BvMrs E. D. E.N. Southworth.the great Robertso story. authoress. This is Mrs. Southworth's best and situations. GREAT BOOKS IN ONE It is full of exciting incidents T70UR -T Excursion," by Mark Twair «An Idle "FarmBahads OPINIONS AND BETSY "Why Wife and I Quarrelled," "Turrn Legend s," all by Will Carlton MYBOBBET'S. By Josiah Allen's Wife. and women to Designed as a beacon light to guide OFFER—FIVE BOOK pursuit of happiness, but i GREAT life liberty, and the Mrs. Mail of the sterner l\ IN ONE—"Glen's Creek," by which maybe read by members Bret Hai ; " of a Mine," by injury to themselves or the book. J Holmes The Story sex without Weller " by John Habbe " dedicated to my own lawful Pard- "The Crew of the Sam This book is " History of Twins have been his consort ton ; Meekin's Twinses, or the ner Josiah, whom (altho' I "That Wife ol Mir' 14 years), I still love with a brimful of mirth, and for a little upwards of s.>. while These books in original form cost cast iron devotedness." but 20 cen Robertson's Library Edition they cost q^HAT HUSBAND OF MINE.— TTNDER THE LILACS. — TH -L great success. The book. By Louisa M.Alcott, author U new ana Lit , those famous books, "Little Women i^HET^EW~SCHOOlTMA AM.-- WomenMaiTied.""UiidertheLilacs"ranthroii in one ^eek.auc^ J- to please. Charmingly told. its first 10,000, in the U.S. Sure of L id second 10,000 is being rapidly disposed and will ami IT IS A the Lilacs" is a charming book HORRID GIRL.— of fun and adventu THAT her repay the reader. It is full 1 captivating story. Time is flying. Get : ROBERTSON'S CHEAP SERIES

POPULAR READING XT POPULAR PRICES. SPEECHES

OF THE EARL OF DUFFERIN

K.P, K.C.B., G C.M.G.,F.B.S., Etc., GOVERNOR-GENERAL OE CANADA.* 1872-1878-

COMPLETE

TORONTO T. ROSS ROBERTSON, 67 YONGE-STREET, 1878.

— —

THE SPEECHES OF THE EARL OF DUFFERIN.

It was in the beautiful city of Florence, in only of England but of all Europe were upon Italy, that the Right Honourable Sir Frederick him when he rose to speak. His marriage Temple, Earl of Dufferin, K.R, G.C.M.G., in 1862 is the next landmark in his history. K.C.B., F.R.S., first saw the light of day on He espoused Harriot Georgina, eldest daugh- the 21st June, 1826. His father was fourth ter of Archibald Rowan Hamilton, Esquire, Baron Dufferin, and his mother a grand- of Killyleagh Castle, County Down, Ireland, daughter of the celebrated Richard Brinsley a lady of good old Scottish stock, and one Sheridan, whose genius was in a measure distinguished alike for the brilliancy of the transmitted through his son Thomas to Irish and the common-sense of the Scotch the latter's daughters, the Hon. Mrs. Nor- one whose unobtrusive help has sustained ton, who was married to the baronet of and nerved his Lordship in many hours of Keir, and the Baroness Dufferin. In her weariness. From 1864 to 1866 he was son Frederick the mental acquirements of Under Secretary of State for India, in the this lady were perpetuated, and shone with latter year being offered the position of increased brilliancy. Lord Dufferin was Governor of Bombay, which for family rea- educated at Eton and Christ Church College sons he had to decline. He was then trans- at Oxford. On his father's death, on21st July, ferred to the War Department as Under 1841, he succeeded to the title. He early Secretary, a position which he vacated on

directed his attention to the questions that Mr. Gladstone's accession to power in 1 868, were then in Ireland beginning to cry ur- to assume the duties of the Chancellorship of gently for attention, the fruits of his studies the Duchy of Lancaster and of Paymaster being ^iven to the country through the General. In this year he was also sworn in as columns of the Times, and in the House of a Privy Councillor. When he had been in Lords, to which he was elevated in 1850 these positions for about three years, he was, under the title of Baron Clandeboye. At in 1871, created an Earl of the United King- this time Lord Dufferin was a Lord in dom. In his own- native county he has Waiting to the Queen, a position which he been Lord Lieutenant and Honorary Colonel held at intervals until 1858. He was attached of the North Down Rifles. On the 22nd received his tj Lord John Russell's famous special mis- May, 1872, he s commission as sion to Vienna in Feb., 1855. On his return Governor General of Canada from the Glad- he went to Iceland in his yacht, the trip fur- stone Government—a fitting reward for a nishing materials for his Lordship's best known quarter of a century's labour for his country. work, "Letters from High Latitudes." It is no part of our purpose to pursue the Lord Palmers ton soon found employment for effulgent course of Lord Dufferin's adminis- the rising young statesman by sending him tration in Canada. Every one in the coun- to Syria to investigate the Christian massa- try cannot fail to be conversant with his cres, that about this time created consider- movements from his first landing at Quebec able stir. This he did with great acceptance, on the 25th June, 1872, to his departure not alone to his Government, but to the in- thence the 19th Oct., 1878. He perfected habitants themselves, and this it was pro- the constitutional work which others had bably that led the press to jump at once to ably begun. His whole career—in Canada may the conclusion that he would be appointed to be summed up in the words : " Say what a administer the British reforms in Asia Governor should be, and he was that." Minor. On his return to Britain he was In inviting our readers' attention to the made a K.C.B. He was chosen to move most important of Lord Dufferin's speeches the Address in reply to the Speech in public, we may say that we do not from the Throne in the House of consider it necessary to do more than Lords immediately after the death preface them very briefly. They are all suf- of the Prince Consort, on 15th December, ficiently self-explanatory. We cannot do 1861. The powers he then displayed con- better than open our list with his famous tributed perhaps more than anything else to speech in the House of Lords, to which al-

his great future success, for the eyes not lusion has already been made : THE SPEECHES OF THE 1872

ON THE PRINCE CONSORT. panegyric has now become, right and fitting [Delivered in the House of Lords, in mov- is it that that public grief which first found ing the reply to the Address from the Crown vent in the visible shudder which shook shortly after Prince Albert's death in every congregation assembled in this metro- 1861.] polis when his well-known name was omit- "My Lords, — In rising to perform the ted from the accustomed prayer—which, duty which has devolved upon me, I feel gathering volume and intensity as reflection that scarcely ever has any member of your gave us the measure of our loss, swept to- Lordships' House been called upon to ad- wards the Throne in one vast wave of pas- dress you under more solemn or more try- sionate sympathy, and is even still reiterat- ing circumstances ; and most painfully am I ed from every distant shore that owns alle- aware how great is my need of your Lord- giance to the British Crown, —right and ships' patience and indulgence. My Lords, fitting is it that such a manifestation of a for nearly a quarter of a century it has been nation's sorrow as this should find its final the invariable privilege of those who have embodiment and crowning consummation in successively found themselves in the posi- a solemn expression of their feelings by both tion I occupy to-night to direct your atten- Houses of the British Legislature. Never tion to topics of a pleasing, hopeful, or before, my Lords, has the heart of England triumphant character—to a gratifying re- been so greatly stirred, and never yet has trospect, or a promising future- -to projects such signal homage been more spontaneously of law calculated still further to promote rendered to unpretending intrinsic worth. the rapidly -increasing prosperity of the Monarchs, heroes, patriots have perished country—to treaties of amity and commerce from among us, and have been attended to with foreign nations—at the worst, to dif- their grave by the respect and veneration of a ficulties surmounted or disasters success- grateful people. But here was one who was fully retrieved—to foreign wars gloriously neither king, warrior, nor legislator—occu- conducted and victoriously concluded. pying a position in its very nature incompa- But, my Lords, to-night a very different tible with all personal pre-eminence, —alike task awaits me. For the first time since debarred the achievement of military renown Her Majesty commenced a reign of unex- and political distinction, secluded within the ampled prosperity, w e have been overtaken precincts of what might easily have become by a calamity fraught with consequences a negative existence, —neither able to confer which no man can yet calculate—unexpect- those favours which purchase popularity, nor ed—irremediable—opening up alike to possessing in any peculiar degree the trick of Sovereign and to people an endless vista of manner which seduces it, —who, nevertheless, sorrow and regret. Under such circum- succeeded in winning for himself an amount stances even the most practised speaker in of consideration and confidence such as the your Lordships' House might well shrink most distinguished or the most successful of from the responsibility of intruding the in- mankind have seldom attained. By what adequate expression of his individual feel- combination of qualities a stranger and an ings on a grief which must have endowed alien—exercising no definite political func- the heart of every one who hears me with tions —ever verging on the peril of a false an eloquence far greater than any he can position—his daily life exposed to ceaseless command. If, however, my Lords, there is observation—shut out from the encou- anything that can mitigate the painful ragement afforded by the sympathy of anxiety of my situation, it is the conviction intimate friendship, the support of that, however inefficient—however wanting partisans, the good fellowship of to the occasion—may be the terms in which society, —how such an one acquired so you are urged to join in the proposed sen- remarkable a hold on the affection of a jea- tences of condolence with Her Majesty, the lous insular people, might well excite the appeal mu-t in its very nature command astonishment of any one acquainted with the such an unanimity of earnest, heartfelt temper and the peculiarities of the British acquiescence, as to leave the manner in nation. Yet, my Lords, after all, how simple which it may be placed before you a matter and obvious is the secret of the dominion he

of indifference. My Lords, this is not the acquired ! If, my Lords, the death of Prince occasion, nor am I the proper person, to Albert has turned England into a land of deliver an encomium on the Prince whom mourning ; if each one of us is conscious of we have lost. When a whole nation has having lost that calm feeling of satisfaction lifted up its voice in lamentation, the and security which has gradually been inter- feeble note of praise which may fall from woven with the existence of the nation from any individual tongue must necessarily be the day he first took his stand beside the

lost in the expression of the general sorrow ; Throne; if it seems a-i though the sun of our but, my Lords, superfluous as any artificial prosperity were darkened, and a pillar of our 1872 EARL OF DUFFERIN.

State had fallen, it is because in him we have Queen's first subject respected this feeling

lost that which has never failed to acquire we are all aware ; yet who shall ever know the unlimited confidence and enthusiastic the nobler loyalty, the still more loving fide- veneration of Englishmen—a man who, in lity with which the husband shared the every contingency of life, in the presence of burdens, alleviated the cares, and guided the bewildering temptations, in the midst of counsels of the wife ? Some there are among luxury and splendour, in good report and in us, indeed, who have had opportunities of evil report, in despite of the allurements of forming a just idea of the extent to which vanity, of selfishness, and ambition, trod this country has profited by the sagacity of

day by day and hour by hour, patiently, Her Majesty's most trusted counsellor ; but humbly, faithfully, the uninviting path of it will not be until this generation has passed duty. My Lords, great must that people away, and those materials see the light from ever become whose highest notion of human which alone true history can be written, that

excellence is the fulfilment of duty ; and the people of England will be able justly to happy may that man be considered who has appreciate the real extent of their obligations

been able to realize their ideal ! Of the to probably one of the wisest and most influ- various achievements of Prince Albert's ential statesmen that ever controlled the des- career I need not remind your Lordships. tinies of the nation. But, my Lords, de- We can, most of us, remember the day when serving of admiration as were the qualities I he first came among us, and every subsequent have enumerated, it is by ties of a tenderer chapter of his blameless life has been open tp nature that he will have most endeared him- our inspection. We all know with what self to our affection. Good, wise, accom- prudence he proceeded to exercise the func- plished, useful as he was, little would all tions of his elevated but difficult station, and these engaging characteristics have availed with what simplicity of purpose he accepted him, unless, before and above all else, he the position marked out for him by the Con- had proved himself worthy of that precious stitution. Noble Lords on either side of the trust which two and twenty years ago the House can describe the impartiality of the people of England confided to his honour, welcome he extended to all the Parliamen- when they gave into his keeping the domes- tary advisers of the Crown. Those who have tic happiness of their youthful Queen. How had the honour of enjoying personal inter- faithfully he has {fulfilled that trust—how course with him can speak not only to the tenderly he has loved, guarded, cherished, grasp of his remarkable intellect, and. the in- honoured the bride of his youth, the compa- exhaustible store of his acquirements, but nion of his manhood, is known in all its ful- still more to the modesty, the gentleness, and ness but to one alone ; yet, so bright has chivalrous purity of a disposition which in- shone the flame of that wedded love, so hal- vested the Court over which he presided lowing has been its influence, that even its with an atmosphere of refinement and tran- reflected light has gladdened and purified quil happiness such as, probably, has never many a humble household, and at this mo-

yet been found in a Royal home ; while his ment there is not a woman in Great Britain various speeches, replete with liberal wis- who will not mournfully acknowledge that dom—the enlightened influence he exercised as in life he made our Queen the proudest, over our arts and manufactures—and, above and the happiest, so in death he has left her all, the triumphant establishment of the the most afflicted lady in her kingdom. Well Exhibitions of 1851 and 1862, will bear wit- may we then hesitate, my Lords, before' we ness to that practical sagacity which, in spite draw near even with words of condolence to of the apparent inaction to which he was that widowed Throne, wrapped as it is in the condemned, could call into if r existence an un- awful majesty of grief ; yet there is one imagined field for the exercise of his untiring thing on earth which might bring— I will energy. And yet, my Lords, it is not so not say consolation, but some soothing of her much for what he did, as for what he was, grief, to our afflicted Sovereign, it would be that the memory of Prince Albert will be the consciousness of that universal love and honoured and revered among us, though, sympathy for her with which the heart of probably, all that he has been to England no England is at this moment full to bursting. one will ever rightly know. As I have Great as has been the affection always felt already had occasion to remark, the exigen- for her by her subjects, the feeling has now cies of his position required him to shun all attained an intensity difficult to imagine. pretension to personal distinction. Politi- Death and sorrow have broken down the cally speaking, the Prince Consort was conventional barriers that have hitherto awed ignored by the Constitution—an ever- watch- into silence the expression of her people's ful, though affectionate,£jealousy,£on the part love ;—it is not a Monarch in a palace that of the people, guarded the pre-eminence of they now see, but a stricken Woman in a the Crown. How loyally and faithfully the desolate home ; and public meetings, and ad- — ;

(1 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1872 dresses of condolence, and marble memorials each has died, falling where he fought, as utterly fail to interpret the unspeakable best befitted the noble birth and knightly yearning with which the entire nation would lineage of each. My Lords, whenever in fain gather her to its bosom, and, if it were her hour of need England shall marshal her possible, for ever shelter her from all the ills armies for the vindication of her honour, or and sorrows of this storm-shaken world. the protection of her territories, the name of Surely, next to the compassion of God must him who laboured so assiduously for the be such _love from such a people! To improvement or the sanitary condition of give expression to these sentiments, as far as the soldier at a time when peace was devas- the forms of State will admit, will, I am tating our barracks in more fatal proportion certain, be the heartfelt desire of your than war our camps, will never lack its

Lordships' House ; and not, even when in appointed meed of praise. And when the some day of battle and defeat your Lord- day shall come for the impartial pen of ships' ancestors made a rampart of their lives history to blazon those few names to whom round the person of their King, will the alone it is given to be recognized by posterity Peers of England have gathered round the as the leading spirits of a by-gone age, the

Throne in a spirit of more genuine devotion ; trusted friend, the laborious coadjutor, the and heartily, I am sure, my Lords, will you sagacious colleague of Lord Aberdeen and join me in praying that the same inscrutable of Sir Robert Peel, shall as surely find his Providence which has visited our Queen and just measure of renown. But, my Lords, it country with so great a calamity will give to was neither in the hope of winning guerdon her and us patience to bow before the or renown that the Prince whom we mourn

dread decree ; and that the Father of the and the statesmen whom we have lost pre- fatherless and the Comforter of the afflicted ferred the path of painful, self-denying duty will, in His own good time, afford to our to the life of luxury and ease that lay within beloved Sovereign such a measure of consola- their reach. They obeyed a nobler instinct tion as is to be found in the love of her lost the)r were led by the light of a higher reve-

husband's children, in the veneration of his lation ; they cast their bread upon the waters

memory, the fulfilment of his wishes, and in the faith of an unknown return. ' Omnia the imitation of his bright example. Such fui,nihil expedit,' sighed one of the greatest of a wish can be embodied in no nobler words Roman emperors as he lay upon his death- after- than those furnished by the great poet of bed at York ; yet when, a moment our age : wards, the captain of his guard came to him for the watchword of the night, with his 4 May all love, dying breath he gave it, ' Labor emus.' So ' His love unseen, but felt, eo'rshadow thee, ' and The love of all thy sons encompass thee, is it, my Lords, with us ; we labour, 1 The love of all thy daughters cherish thee, others enter into the fruit of our labours ; ' The love of all thy people comfort thee, we dig the foundation, and others build, and ' Till God's love set thee at his side again.' others again raise the superstructure ; and And now, my Lords, glad should I be one by one the faithful workmen, their might my task of sorrowful reminiscence be spell of toil accomplished, descend it may be unhonoured grave—but here concluded ; but on such an occasion it is into oblivion and an impossible not to remember that since we higher, brighter, fairer, rises the fabric of beauti- were last assembled, the service of two other our social policy ; broader and more trusted and faithful councillors has been lost ful spread out on every side the sacred realms further back to the Crown and to the State—the one a of civilization ; further and member of your Lordships' House, cut off retire the dark tides of ignorance, misery, in the prime of his manhood and in the midst crime—nay, even of disease and death itself, of one of the most brilliant careers that ever until to the eye of the enthusiastic specu- flattered the ambition of an English states- lator on the destinies of the human race it man; the other a Member of the other House might almost seem as if in the course of ages of Parliament, after a long life of such unin- it might be granted to the intellectual energy terrupted labour and unselfish devotion to the and moral development of mankind to re- business of the country as has seldom charac- conquer a lost Paradise and reconstruct the what terized the most indefatigable public servant. shattered harmony of creation ! In to My Lords, it is not my intention to enume- degree it may be granted to this country tell but, rate the claims upon our gratitude possessed work out such a destiny none can ; the shadow cast across the by those two departed statesmen ; but, in though heavy be taking count of the losses sustained by land by the loss of the good and great, most our Parliament during ihe last recess, it is im- eloquently do their lives remind us that possible not to pause an instant beside the watchword in the darkness still should be, vacant places of Lord Herbert and Sir James ' LaboremuiiT Graham. Each has gone to his account, and a ——

1872 EARL OF DUFFERIN.

ON THE EVE OF HIS SAILING. advocating what I believed to be fair, and just, and right. (Great cheering). As a [Delivered in Belfast on the 11th June, consequence, I have found myself opposed in 1872, at a banquet over which the Mayor turn to many of the phases of political presided, and which was attended by many of thought and feeling which may have prevail- the most prominent gentlemen and ladies in ed in this country. Probably there are many Ireland. ] gentlemen in this room—I trust no lady "Mr. Mayor, My Lords, Ladies, and Gen- (hear, hear)—to whom at one time or another tlemen, —I am sure it will De easily under- my words and conduct may have been dis- stood that,to'any one in my situation to-night, pleasing— (hear, hear, and cheering)—but I it must be difficult to find wordseither simple hope I may regard their presence here to- enough or strong enough to express his night as an assurance that in the warmest thanks. Those whom I see around me are moments of controversy, no matter how representatives of all that is most distinguish- strong my personal convictions, I have never ed in the social, mercantile, political and failed to pay to my temporary opponents professional world of Ulster and the North. that respect and deference which was due to They are, therefore, the very men whose their high character, their conscientious mo- good opinion it has always been my chief tives, and their intellectual eminence. (Ap- ambition to acquire. Amongst them are in- plause. ) On the other hand, I trust I may cluded not only my personal friends and po- take the opportunity of assuring those of my litical associates, but numbers to whom it entertainers with whom I have been political- has been my misfortune to find myself oppos- ly allied that I retain a no less grateful ap- ed on many momentous public questions, and preciation of the confidence with which they on whose indulgence and sympathy, there- have honoured me, of the encouragement fore, I could have no claim, beyond what with which they have greeted my humble their native geDero3ity of feeling must supply. efforts on their behalf, and of the genial and (Cheers.) Yet all have been pleased to join affectionate cordiality which has invested our together to-night in a demonstration of per- political intercourse with the attributes of sonal kindness and goodwill towards Lady personal friendship. (Cheers.) Ladies and Dufferin and myself, so cordial and so unani- gentlemen, Constitutional Government must mous, so diverse in the quarters whence it necessarily be carried on by party. (Hear, proceeds, and so magniMcent in its outward hear.) Allegiance to one's party is the first characteristics, as may well render the object obligation on every honourable man. (Hear, of it speechless 'from surprise and gratitude. hear. ) Party warfare is as necessary to our (Loud cheers.) Yet, ladies and gentlemen, political existence as those conflicting forces however unequal I may be to making you which hold the world in equilibrium, and re- understand all that I feel at this mo- fresh and purify the face of nature. But if ment, there is one assurance I must hasten to there is one respect in which public life in give you, and that is, that I fully compre- this country has the advantage over public hend that it is not to anything that I have life amongst other nations, it is that our done, or been, or am, that I owe this supreme statesmen, in respecting themselves, have for it honour ; but that I am indebted to learned to respect each other— (hear, hear) that instinctive feeling of sympathy which it is that each section of the community, in all Irish hearts show towards those who, in advocating its own opinions or "interests, is the discharge of anxious public duties, are content to do so with sobriety called upon to leave their home and native and moderation, and that a mutual land. (Applause.) You, Mr. Mayor, have spirit of forbearance leads to the indeed been good enough to lay some stress settlement of the most burning questions on my humble efforts to promote the advan- under conditions in which both sides can tage of this town and neighbourhood (hear, — eventually acquiesce ; it is that political hear) —but, although I am conscious that the controversy seldom degenerates into per- desire to serve my country has never ceased sonal rancour ; it is that when once Her to be the great passion of my life— (hear) — Majesty has been pleased to invest one of sense of how little I have been able to do to- her subjects with representative authority, wards so great an end has not failed to sup- whether as a judge, an ambassador, or a ply me with a store of humiliating reflec- viceroy—(cheers) —no matter what may have tions. In one respect alone is my conscience been been the vehemence of his political at ease, and that is in the knowledge that antecedents, his countrymen of all classes from my earliest entry into public life, and parties are content to regard him hence- neither from fear nor favour, neither from a forth as their common servant, champion, love of applause nor from a of dread running and representative— (hear, hear) —as eman- counter to any dominant tide of popular sen- cipated from all taint of political partizan* timent, have I I ever been turned aside from ship— (hear, hear)—and as actuated by a —a

s THE SPEECHES OF THE 1872:

simple desire to serve the nation at large. that which will consist in presenting myself (Cheers.) It is this generosity of sentiment to our fellow-subjects across the Atlantic as on the part of the British people which the embodiment and representative of that seems to have acted like an inspiration on kind feeling—(hear, hear) —of that deep sym- the minds of those great men whose services pathy— (hear, hear)—of that ceaseless and abroad havo added so many glorious pages to indestructible pride and affection with which our history. It has purified their natures, all classes and all parties in this country re- elevated their aspirations, invigorated their gard the inhabitants of our great Dominion. intellects, until, as in the case of Lord Can- (Cheers.) Ladies and gentlemen, you are of ning— (cheers) —Lord Elgin— (cheers) —and course aware that the Government of Canada our late lamented countryman, Lord May<> is strictly constitutional—(hear, hear) —that —(loud cheers) —their reputations have ex- it reflects, in all respects, the institutions of panded beyond the anticipations of their this country, and that this resemblance is warmest friends, and in dying they have maintained, not merely by the outward form left behind them almost heroic memoiies. of its machinery, but what is of far greater (Loud cheers.) And how could this be importance, by that spirit of dignified mode- otherwise ? As the ship he sails in slowly ration and sagacious statesmanship which moves away from the familiar shore, as the inspires the conduct of those distinguished well-known features of the landscape, the men who have successfully administered her bright villas, the pointed spires, the pleasant affairs and directed the councils of her Legis- woods, the torrent beds that scar the moun- lature. (Cheers.) Why, the mere creation tain side, gradually melt down into a single of the Dominion, the union of the Provinces tint, till only the broad outline of his native the concentration of power in the hands of a coast attracts his gaze, something of an an- Supreme Parliament, whose jurisdiction now alogous process operates within his mind, extends from ocean to ocean, is itself a proof and, as he considers his mission and his des- of the patriotism, of the ability, and of the tiny, the landmarks of home politics grow organizing power of the Canadian people. faint, the rugged controversies which divide (Hear, hear.) It is not to be supposed but opinion become indistinct, the antagonisms that many local interests, prejudices and tra- of party strife recede into the distance, while ditions must have imagined themselves com- their place is occupied by the aspect of an promised by the absorption of the Local Le- united nation, which has confided its inte- gislatures into the bosom of the mightier

rests and its honour to his keeping, and by body ; but not only have the wisest coun- the image of the beloved Mistress he repre- cils on the subject been permitted to prevail, sents and serves. (Loud cheers.) It is and all minor jealousies been obliterat- thoughts like these—it is the consciousness ed, but even those who most vehemently op- that he carries with him the confidence of posed the arrangement, when once the con- his countrymen, the good wishes of his troversy was concluded, have acquiesced in friends, the favour of his Queen, that com- the settlement, and with a loyal and gene- pels a man to forget himself, his selfish in- rous patriotism have done their very best to terests and feelings, and makes him wholly render nugatory their own misgivings, and

his country's ; which gives him courage to to make the system they at one time found incur responsibility, to sustain odium, to it necessary to oppose work to the best pos- confront danger, to sacrifice health, and, if sible advantage. (Cheers.) Ladies and gen- need be, life itself, at the simple call of duty. tlemen, who can now doubt the constructive (Cheers.) Ladies and geutlemen, as far as power, the statesmanslike instincts, the vi- such inspiriting auspices as these can ensure tality, or the future of a community whose success, few will have left their native shores Parliament and whose statesmen can already under more encouraging circumstances than boast of such notable achievements in the myself. (Hear, hear,) I only wish I could art of goveVnment? (Hear, hear.) But, feel that the friendly anticipations you have ladies and gentlemen, to be the interpreter expressed were more certain to be realized. of the goodwill of the people of Great Bri- But, after all, perhaps a deep and almost op- tain towards the inhabitants of Canada is pressive sense of the responsibility of one's not the only congenial duty imposed on me position—a humble hope to be enabled, in by my office. There is another of an anal- spite of one's deficiencies, to do one's duty— ogous kind which it will give me hardly less due appreciation of the honour of one's post, pleasuse to discharge. Side by side with the is a better preparation for a future career Dominion of Canada, along a frontier of than a more confident and self-satisfied frame more than 2,000 miles, extends the territory of mind. (Cheers.) At all events, there is of a kindred race— (hear, hear, and applause) one function of my great office which will —who are working out their great destiny prove a labour of love, and to the discharge under institutions which, though differing in of which I know I shall not be unequal some of their outward aspects from our own, — )

1872 »EARL OF DUFFERIN. 9

have been elaborated under the inspiration nor can there be conceived a greater privi- of that same love of freedom— (hear, hear) lege than being permitted to watch the de- that reverence for law, that sober, practical velopment of an industry and civilization statesmanship— (hear, hear—that capacity of fraught with such universal advantage to the self-discipline— (hear, hear) —which charac- human race. In fact, ladies and gentlemen, terises the English-speaking race. As the it may be doubted whether the inhabitants Chief of the Executive of Canada, as the of the Dominion themselves are as yet fully representative of the British Crown, as the awake to the magnificent destiny in store servant and spokesman of the British people, for them—(hear, hear) —or have altogether it will be my agreeable duty to exhibit on all realized the promise of their young and virile occasions whatever of hospitality, courtesy, nationality. Like a virgin goddess in a pri-

and friendliness to the citizens of the United / masval world, Canada still walks in uncon- States may most accurately exhibit that scious beauty among her golden woods and genuine sympathy felt by this country for by the margin of her trackless streams, America, which, in spite of any monetary catching but broken glances of her radiant and superficial disputes which may trouble majesty, as mirrored on the surface, and the outward surface of their amity, descends scarcely recks as yet of the glories awaiting too deep down into the hearts of both peoples her in the Olympus of nations." (Loud and ever to be really shaken or disturbed. (Loud long cheers. cheers. ) It has been my good fortune to THE SITUATION AT HIS ADVENT. know a great number of distinguished Ame- [This speech was not made by Lord Duf- ricans. Some of my doarest friends are ferin, but by Lord Lisgar, five days previous natives of the States, and not the least of to Lord DufFerin's advent. It was delivered the pleasant anticipations which await me is at a farewell banquet in Montreal on the the prospect of acquiring a better know- 20th June, 1872, and is valuable as showing ledge and becoming more intimately ac- the state of Canada from a gubernatorial quainted with the social and political organi- point of view upon Lord DufFerin's taking zation of that great and prosperous nation. the reins of office.] fi (Loud applause.) But of course the most Gentlemen,—I am very sensible of the constant and absorbing duty of every one honour conveyed by your applause, and I beg connected with the Government of Can' you to accept my warm and earnest thanks ada, and one not less agreeable than those to for all your kindness. I was much gratified which I have alluded, will be that of deve- at receiving the invitation to this banquet, loping the latent wealth and the enormous which, indeed, I did not expect to find so material resources of the vast territory com- numerously attended and so marked in all prised within my new jurisdiction. Few respects. 1 feel the compliment all the more, people in this country have any notion how inasmuch as it is a repetition, after some blessed by nature is the Canadian soil. length of time and acquaintance, of a similaj (Hear, hear.) The beauty, majesty, and ma- compliment paid to me on my first arrival. I terial importance of the Gulf of the St. Law- retain in distinct recollection the prompt rence is indeed the theme of every traveller, hospitality and the lavish attention which while the stupendous chain of lakes to which were paid to me by the Mayor and citizens it is the outlet is well known to afford a sys- of Montreal more than three years ago. tem of inland navigation such as is to be found Such demonstrations, I am aware, are made, in no other part of the habitable globe. The not to the individual, but to the official—not inexhaustible harvest of its seas? annually to the person, but to the choice of the Bri- gathered by its hardy maritime population, tish Government and the representative of the innumerable treasures of its forests, are England in this great and noble dependency, known to all ; but what is not so generally and it is only right that they should be so di- understood is that beyond the present inha- rected, seeing, as we see by the latest in- bited regions of the country—beyond the stance, the pains and care the British Govern- towns, the lakes, the woods- -there stretches ment bestows on the selection of a person to out an enormous breadth of rich alluvial soil represent the Sovereign in her British North comprising an area of thousands of square American possessions. They have selected miles, so level, so fertile, so ripe for cultiva- Lord Dufferin, a nobleman of high rank, tion, so profusely watered, and intersected favourably known in literary circles, and by enormous navigable rivers, with so excep- conversant with all the accomplishments and tionally mild a climate, as to be destined at intricacies of social and political life. When no distant time to be occupied by millions I had the pleasure of addressing a large and of our prosperous fellow -subjects, and to be- intelligent audience ia this place three years come a central granaiy for the adjoining ago, I was just entering upon the duties continents. (Cheers. ) Such a scene as this which had been assigned to me by the choice may well fire the most sluggish imagination, and good opinion of the Duke of Bucking- 10 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1872 ham, acting on behalf of the Government of adequate armed force to sustain civil autho- England. 1 was, as it were, buckling on my rity. The form and frame of representative armour ; now I am laying it off. There is a institutions have now been organized, and proverbial warning against boasting on the set in motion with every prospect of satisfac- former occasion, which I cannot consider in- tory working. Much praise is due to Lieu- applicable to the latter also, and. I hope I tenant Governor Archibald for the legal at- shall not lay myself open in any degree to tainments, the unwearied industry, and the the imputation of neglecting it at the close tine temper which he has brought to bear on of my otticial life; for I consider this my the difficulties he had to encounter. He last public appearance at the close of a pub- iterally encountered the wilderness, but he lic career which, whatever its general short- has cleared the forest and taken out the comings, has certainly been passed in em- stumps. Whoever succeeds him —for I hear ployments of high responsibility, and has Mr. Archibald wishes to leave with views been sometimes thrown upon circumstances and objects of his own—will have an easy of great difficulty. But when I recall to task. He will enter on the results of ano- mind the topics upon which I dwelt when I ther man's intelligent labours, and will not last spoke in this place, I then felt that, bas- probably have more obstacles in his way ing myself upon the known energy of the than were found in the older settled Pro- people, and the good faith which had there- vinces. To carry on the agricultural simile, tofore attended the counsels of the statesmen he will only have to cultivate the cleared of Canada, I could argue well for the future. farm on ordinary known principles, and with I anticipated large additions to the territory; a proper rotation of crops. So much for I indulged the hope that the bitter feeling the extensions of territory that have been which then prevailed in the United States made. The Dominion now stretches from would speedily give place to amity and the Atlantic to the Pacific, and opens its reconciliation, and I looked forward to the ports on the one and the other ocean to re- early commencement of public works ot ceive and interchange the manufactures of great magnitude and undoubted utility. Europe and the varied products of Australian

Well, three years have barely passed : the and Asiatic commerce. As to Nova Scotia, things which rose then in anticipation—the I need not inform this audience that the visions of hope—some said, of too sanguine work of reconciliation has been effected. hope, are now a realized, accomplished suc- Whatever of ill-feeling remains is only the cess. It is true that Newfoundland and smouldering embers of the former fire, and is Prince Edward Island still stand without fast dying out. The danger of conflagration

the pale of the Dominion, and deny them- is past ; and if we wanted proof to confirm selves the advantages which have flowed in the accounts received from many quarters of so full a tide upon the Provinces which have the good dispositions which prevail through- thrown in their lot with it. But the vast out all the Acadian bodies, it may be found area held by the Hudson Bay Company ha3, in the concurrence of opiuion with the other after a protracted investigation, been cede 1 Provinces, and in the mode in which the re- to the Crown, and by the Crown forthwith presentatives of Nova Scotia joined with the transferred to Canada—a mighty boon, representatives of the other Provinces in af- greater in extent and richer in resources firming for the general interests the than more than one first-class European acceptance of the articles of the Kingdom. British Columbia came in on Treaty of Washington whfch affect Canada. equal terms, a willing and valued partner 1 I must admit that when I alluded to pnb- and associate. The temper and sagacity lic works of great magnitude, of which I brought to bear on the arrangements with hoped to see the commencement, I had not British Columbia reflect credit on the nego- in view—I had not formed the conception tiators on the one side and the other. If it of so vast an enterprise as a railway thou- be high praise for machinery to say that it sands of miles long to connect the Canadian works evenly and efficiently without noise system of lines with some point on the coast or friction, to that praise the arrangements of the Pacific. I had only in my mind the with British Columbia are entitled. They water communication, —new canals to be work efficiently and work satisfactorily to dug, and old ones to be enlarged and deepen- all concerned, and seem to be as highly ap- ed. Vast as is the project of the railway, it proved of after trial as they were at their need not be appalling. It is only iu the first commencement. The troubles which darkness of night or of ignorance that ensued in Manitoba were due rather to mis- doubts and apprehensions appear appalling, understanding and misapprehension, arising —that shapes and shadows loom porten- from ignorance, than to any rooted policy. tous in the gloom. They vanish away, or as- They were overcome by steadiness, patient sume their proper dimensions, in the light of explanation, and the occasional display of an science, and the clear day of reason and —

1872 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 11 awakened energy. We may indeed draw dian exports, that is, of the marvellous increase courage from the earliest lessons learned in of the products of Canadian industry, the our infancy. The memories of a champion, proofs of a marvellous advancement in the which continue, I trust, to be as popular country ; he mentioned the rising manufac- and as carefully studied as they were in my tures, a rapidly growing carrying trade, and youth, assure us that many a giant may be used the term, ' wonderfully prosperous' in overcome by intelligence ; and this giant of reference to the present condition of the a railway, if there be any truth in the adage country, while he looked forward to a fur- that "wellbegunishalf done, "is already half ther progress as well as a great increase in overcome by the careful preliminary surveys .the public revenues in future years. I think which have been carried over a wide expanse that the conclusion is properly and emphati- -of country, and in the teeth of mauy obsta- cally drawn that now is the time to under- cles, by that excellent public servant, the take the 'necessary—and what past experi- Engineer-in- Chief, Mr. Sandford Fleming, and ence of similar outlay, and even calculation his indefatigable assistants. The conquest of future chances, pronounce to be safe will be completed in good time by the united expenditure. I have heard apprehensions energy, capital and credit of the country. expressed in some quarters that the combi- I see at hand and around me those who pos- nations amongst working men, and the high sess all the requisites, and are equal to the rate of wages insisted upon, may go far to task. The work will be done, for it is in- check or delay the progress of public dispensable, in order to fulfil the inter- works, or make the outlay a burden too provincial engagements which have been grievous to bear. These apprehensions entered into, to afford facilities for traffic, need not be indulged in. Combinations to and travelling to distant part3 of the Domin- keep up wages are seldom successful, except ion, and not merely to bind all the parts to- in trades where the workpeople are few in gether by a strong bond, and fresh links, by number*, and collected in a small number of links stronger than iron, but to rivet them local centres. In all other eases, wages soon together by fresh associations, and weld find their natural level— that is to say, the them into one integral, indissoluble whole level of the rate which distributes the by constant, familiar, mutually beneficial in- whole circulating capital of the country tercourse. The last, but by no means the among the entire working population. If least, advantage which will accrue from the workmen demand more, their demand can work is the powerful stimulus which it will only be obtained by keeping a portion of give to emigration. It will afford employment their number permanently out of employ- and encouragement to multitudes who are ment. The intelligence of the people will prepared, and longing to avail themselves of it, soon discover this point, and their entering and who need such help and encouragement into combinations and unions will facilitate during their first struggles for a few months, their doing so. No attempt should, there- it may be for a year or two, in a strange fore, be made to prevent or put down the country. This last remark applies in an combinations by legislation or by force. The equal degree to the Works upon the canals. atrocities sometimes committed by workmen They too will swell the tide of emigration in the way of personal outrage or intimida- by hopes of employment. I do not believe tion cannot be too rigidly repressed, and to that I ever read a paragraph in an opening that end the process of law should be simpli- speech from the Throne with greater satis- fied and made summary. In all other re- faction than that which proclaimed that the spects, and so long as they abstain from the Government were about to take the canab molestation of parties who do not join them, in hand, and press their improvement on a the Trades Unions should be left free to large scale. This satisfaction was enhanced combine for their own purposes and to fur- when I saw it officially announced in his ther their own interests by all lawful and budget speech by my honourable friend the peaceable means. I served on a Committee Minister of Finance (Sir Francis Hincks). of the House of Commons manj' years ago, that the country could well afford the out- by which these principles were ascertained lay, and that now was the time. I hope I or confirmed, and upon its conclusions the may be allowed to say, even in Sir Francis law of England now rests. I was glad to Hincks' presence, that he appears to me to see "that in the coarse of the session just unite, in an eminent degree, accurate closed Sir John Macdonald introduced a Bill knowledge of the subjects he has to handle to assimilate the law of Canada to that of with a true appreciation of the requirements Great Britain in these respects. I believe of the country, and the tendencies of sound this course was wise in itself, and doubly so public opinion. In his lucid exposition of the inasmuch as it is desirable that the law in financial state and prospects of the country, Canada should in all cases be as closely as he spoke of the marvellous increase of Cana- possible assimilated to that of England. No 12 THE SPEECHES OF THE x»72

surer or more lasting bond of union between hereafter, he can rely, as I have relied with the two countries can be devised than an confidence, on an experienced and respon- identity of laws founded upon and fostering sible Ministry, and recur, if need be, to the an identity of feeling. I well know that assistance of a loyal and well-instructed Sir John Macdonald has this object much at Parliament. I am happy to be able to say heart, and that he desires to strengthen the so much, and to think that my humble name bond and perpetuate the connection, the has been honourably associated with the good intelligence, the alliance between Cana- youthful energies and the rising fortunes of

da and England. I wish him and all those the Dominion ; I say rising fortunes, for in field, God-speed, many are who work with him this , the signs and assurances that its and the amplest success. But, after all, the fortunes are rising, and they are legibly true remedy for the follies and violences of written in evidence. The judgment and strikes and demands for too high wages, as foresight displayed in reconciling the con- of all social evils, is popular intelligence, flicting claims of the different Provinces and quickened by sound education. You have cementing them into one powerful and har- established an excellent system in the Domi- monious union argue statesmanship of no nion, and education is in a flourishing con- mean order. The entertainment of such dition. I fear it may be objected that the vast projects as the Pacific Railway and the process is slow, that the truths of Economic improvements on the canals show how large Science and the convictions of Philosophy and comprehensive a view Parliament can can scarcely reach the popular mind ; that take of what is needed to advance the gene- the knowledge of the people is, and must ral interests. In the last session a question ever remain, superficial. This, to a certain arose on the point of religious education and extent, cannot be denied. Still, the truths touching the respective rights and powers of which regulate the moral and political the Dominion and the Provincial Legislatures. relations of man are of no great distance At first, it wore a threatening aspect, but it from the surface. The*great works in which was set at rest by the united action of discoveries are recorded cannot be read by parties usually opposed to each other, much the people, but their substance passes to their credit, while the settlement proved through a number of minute and circuitous that the wisdom and moderation of Parlia- channels, through the lecture, the pamphlet, ment are equal to dealing with the most the newspaper, to the shop and the hamlet. thorny and troublesome matters. Lastly,

To borrow a simile from an eminent writer : the adoption of the articles of the Treaty of ' The conversion of these works of unproduc- Washington, under the doubtful circum- tive splendour into select use and unobserved stances of the time, and when every day activity, resembles the processes of nature in brought a different surmise as to the chances the eternal world. The expanse of a noble or fate of the Treaty, savoured of that lake, the course of a majestic river imposes magnanimity which Edmund Burke said was on the imagination by every impression of not seldom the truest policy of the State. dignity and sublimity, but it is the moisture These wise and happy arrangements show that insensibly arises from them, which that the day of little things and little minds gradually mingles with the soil, nourishes all is past. The Parliament and the people the luxuriance of vegetation, and adorns the are conscious of their position, and zealous to surface of the earth. ' But now, Sir, I must act up to it valiantly and becomingly, with bring my remarks to a close. There are, no the Divine blessing. They will take for their doubt, many other topics to which I might motto the old watchword of the Church, allude—the Treaty of Washington, for in- Sursum Corda ;—brace up their energies, stance, but that is ground on which I will and raise their hearts to the great responsi- not tread ; Sir John Macdonald's excellent bilities and the lofty destiny to which, in and exhaustive speech must be fresh in all the order of Providence, they are called, and your recollections ; —a speech which con- proceed, as I most wish they will, from vinced or satisfied the Parliament of Canada, strength to strength rejoicing." and elicited the applause of the Ministry AT HIS ARRIVAL IN OTTAWA. and the press of England. I will not weaken [His Excellency was sworn in at Quebec, it by any attempt at repetition, or ' risk after which he proceeded to Ottawa, and darkening councils by words without know- was there received by the Mayor and Cor- ledge.' I will not further trespass on your poration and the Societies, on the 27th June, indulgence than to reiterate my thanks, 1872. This speech was made in reply to and to say that, in leaving Canada, I leave their addresses.] no serious difficulties for my successor. " Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen, —The There are no clouds in the Canadian political warm and hearty welcome which has been sky, —no harassing questions to engross his accorded me on my arrival in Canada, and attention on his arrival. Should any arise the magnificent reception with which I have "

1872 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 13

been greeted on reaching the metropolis of as a Minister of a Military Commission, con- the Dominion, emanating, as it has done, siderable experience in military matters, I from all sections, creeds and classes of Her hope that a few remarks from me will not Majesty's subjects on this side of the Atlan- be out of place. I have heard much, before tic, only affords fresh proof of the attach- ooming to ihis country, of the Canadian ment, loyalty and devotion of the Canadian Volunteers. I had heard them highly, spoken people to the Throne and person of our most of, but I confess that I am agreeably sur- gracious Queen. As long as I have the prised at the magnificent physique and ap- honour to be the representative of the Crown pearance of the men whom I have had the in this country it will be my most anxious pleasure of reviewing to-day. As Her Ma- endeavour, on the one hand, to cherish and jesty's representative, I rejoice to find that foster, by every means in my power, those she has such a sturdy and proficient army loyal sentiments by which you are so pro- of defenders ; and I doubt not that, should foundly animated; and on the other, to ex- the occasion arise, you would all turn out hibit, on behalf of Her Majesty, manfully for the defence of your families and the affection and solicitude which homesteads. The spectacle which I have to- she has never ceased to feel for day witnessed is one which I shall long re- the inhabitants of this her greatest depen- member. The steadiness and proficiency of dency. In thanking you for such expres- the men is beyond all praise, and, though I sions of kindness in your address as are per- am not conversant with the details of mili- sonal to myself, I can only say that, al- tary science, I could not but observe the ad- though I cannot hope to fulSl the flattering mirable manner in which the different corps expectations of me which you have been acted. As the representative of the Queen pleased to form, I am actuated by the most in this country, I shall have much pleasure earnest and single-minded desire to serve in congratulating Her Majesty's Government you to the best of my ability, to spend the and the Commander-in-Chief on having so best years of my life amongst you, and to tine a body of men for the defence of this place unreservedly at your disposal such ex- country as that which is furnished by the perience in the conduct of government as my Third Military District. I am aware " that previous public career has enabled me to soldiers are not fond of long speeches, and I acquire. To be permitted to associate my- therefore close my remarks to you by thank self with you in developing the marvellous ing you sincerely for the gratifying an magi- resources of this glorious land—to have a niticent spectacle you have afforded me this share in building up on this side of the At- day. lantic a great, prosperous and loyal com- AT LAPRAIRIE IN 1872. munity, is a privilege amply sufficient to [His Lordship was received here by the satisfy the ambition of the most aspiring Mayor on the 4th of July. His speech was statesman. In conclusion, I beg to thank remarkable for two declarations, the one re- you on Lady Dufferin's behalf for having in- garding his position, and the other with re-

cluded her in your kindly welcome. 1 can ference to his intentions. ] assure you that from the moment we set foot " Thanks to the magnanimous and wise on Canadian soil, we have both forgotten conduct of your Parliament, and the saga- that we have ever had another home than cious administration of my predecessors, I yours —and in discharging the social duties should have arrived in Canada at a time which attach to her position, Lady DufFerin when most of the anxious political questions confidently expects to establish ties amongst which occupied your attention have been you which will effectually compensate her settled, and all classes and sections of the for the loss of those she has so lately been community seem to be united in an endea- forced to sever." vour to promote and develop the material HIS INTRODUCTION TO THE VOLUNTEERS. resources of the country, "Bred as I have

. Lord Dufferin immediately set himself to been, in the atmosphere of Constitutional learn what he could of the economy of the Government, I trust that my administra- country. In the course of his inquiry he tion of your affairs may prove worthy of a visited the camps at Frescott and Kingston. faee and noble people." At the latter place, on the 1st of July, he HIS INTRODUCTION TO LOVERS OF ATHLETIC delivered this speech, addressing Lieut. -Col. SPORTS. Jarvis, A.A.G., in command.] [Delivered at the Stadacona Athletic "Col. Ross, Col. Jarvis, Officers and Sports, held in July, 1872, in response to an Men of the Third Military District, — address by the Mayor of the city.] It can hardly be expected that on an occa- "Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen, — sion such as this, I, a civilian, should at- I can assure you that both myself and Lady tempt to address you; but inasmuch as I DufFerin feel gratified by the expression of have had, as Under Secretary of State, and thanks which you have just made, and by " ] a

n THE SPEECHES OF THE 1872 the warm reception which we have had here AT TORONTO, 1872. to-day. In being present to-day, I do no [His Excellency arrived on the evening of more than fulfil a duty as the representative the 24th Sept., and was warmly welcomed. of Her Majesty, for our beloved Sovereign His first speech was on the 27th September, seldom allows an occasion to pass without in reply to the address of the Corporation.] shewing her interest in the sports and amuse- " Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen, —During ments of her people. I am sure we must all my progress through the various sections of feel gratified at the way in which the games the Dominion I have been everywhere greeted of the day have gone off : it has seldom been with assurances of the deep attachment of mv good fortune to be present at so large a the Canadian people to the British Throne gather, ngito witness such extraordinary good and Constitution, and nowhere have those behaviour,mutual courtesy and good humour. expressions been more marked than in the I cordially reiterate the desire expressed by Province of Ontario. I can assure you that you, Mr. Mayor, that the present celebration I am deeply sensible of the honour I enjoy may be the inauguration of the institution of in being called upon to administer the Gov- annual games in this city, and more, that ernment of so important a community— you may always be favoured with such de- community destined, I believe, to develop lightful weather and your assemblages graced the traditional institutions and the genius of by the presence of so many beautiful ladies. the Mother Country to the highest degree of SETTING OUT FOR ONTARIO. perfection. The confederation of the Pro- [Delivered in reply to an address of the viuces proves how great is the practical wis- citizens of Quebec when His Excellency was dom and sagacity of your statesmen ; and on the eve of his departure for Ontario, on the rapidity with which all sectional 23rd September, 1872.] jealousies, and the animosities of race and "Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen, — religion, have disappeared, affords a striking I can assure you, I find it difficult adequate- proof of the patriotism and magnanimity of ly to express, either on Lady Duft'erin's the people. Most cordially do I reiterate behalf or my own, our deep sense of the your hope that, ere long, the whole of the kindness of yourself and our other friends North American Provinces may be welded in thus coming to bid us good-bye. The into a perfect whole, and that before I leave delicacy of feeling which has suggested so your shores I may have called together a graceful a compliment doubles its value in Dominion Parliament, in which no portion our estimation. When we first arrived here of Her Majesty's Transatlantic territories we were unknown to you all, and strangers shall be unrepresented." in the land. When we next come to Quebec, [His reply to the address of the Board of we feel that we shall be returning to a circle TTade, upon the same day, was the follow- of warm friends, to a most charming and ing:—! agreeable society, and to the sight of kind, " I feel it to be a great honour to have familiar faces. Our only regret is that cir- been called upon to admiuister the Govern- cumstances have not permitted us during ment of so progressive and so prosperous a our brief stay amongst you to make greater Dominion. Hardly a week passes but fresh exertions on your behalf, for I am well aware proofs are brought to my notice of the that the social duties of my station are as illimitable resources which it contains, and imperative as my political functions. En- which cannot fail to become rich fountains of camped, however, as we have been upod the wealth to its industrious and energetic rock above us, and confined within the nar- people. I have been looking forward with row casemates of the Citadel, it was impos- impatience to my visit to the capital of On- sible for us to open our doors as widely as tario —and I propose to spend some weeks in we could have wished ; but though in one Toronto for the express purpose of becoming sense the space at our disposal for your ac- acquainted with its inhabitants and its insti- commodation has been restricted, in an- tutions." other way, at all events, we can make ample [The following speech is His Excellency's provision for you all. In the chambers of introduction to the schoolboys of Ontario. our hearts there is room and verge enough It was delivered at the Upper Canada Col- for many friends. Their avenues are guard- lege on the 15th October:— " ed by no state nor ceremonial ; no intro- Mr. Principal, Ladies and Gentle- duction is needed to gain admisssion — assure you that it is with very there ; men, I can and those who once enter need never take great pleasure I find myself within, these their leave. Both on my own behalf, and walls. Any institution which contains on Lady Dufferin's, Mr. Mayor, I accept within it such a specimen of the with gratitude your kind invitation to a ball youth of a country must be one of the later in the year." most interesting sights which could be pre- sented to the eyes of those who are in any —

OF DUFFERIN. 15 1872 EAKL

and withstanding way connected with its administration, any imperfections of this kind, Lieutenant-Go- there was not one of us who,if discovered in a I am sure that both to the many fault, or accusedjjof any act of {disobedience, vernor and to myself the aspect of so of the would have hesitated to this bright and intelligent faces is a matter avow fault, or pleasure would have sought refuge in greatest satisfaction. I have had the anything so das- class- tardly as a lie. There also prin- already of passing through the various was another course of ciple to which an appeal rooms,' of informing myself of the was made with success, instruction communicated at this college, and which worked with greatest be- of those nefit among the boys the principle and of making the acquaintance — gentlemen who superintend the studies of of endeavouring to impose upon the elder first to last, I have lads a certain degree of responsibility, not the pupils ; and, from seen nothing but what appears to me to be only in regard to the example they set, but based upon the most admirable principles in reference to the active influence they under- exercised their junior for the instruction of youth. As I among companions. direct This, was a very healthy principle. I do not stand, it is the ambition of those who the internal affairs of this establishment to think that the authority thus delegated was assimilate, as far as possible, the principles ever abused, or that the boys who were the have most conscientious in its exercise were at all of its moral government to those which proved so successful in the administration of unpopular upon that account with their Well younger colleagues and I sure a kindly the great public schools in England. ; am leading of warning from felt then, sir, I ask myself what are the word a boy whom we to features of an English public school. And be superior to ourselves, not only in his here I would lay aside for the moment any moral character, his age, or learning, but reference to the particular course of study also in his skill in manly sports, exercised a is, healthful which is common to them all, and that most and pleasant influence upon that the authorities who are charged with our own conduct. (Applause.) We knew, of the responsibilities of the education of those course, we were schoolboys, and willingly young lads have laid down for themselves and gladly submitted to the discipline we not called upon to the golden rule, that they will were obey ; but our masters treat the boys placed under their were always careful to inculcate on our care as mere children, as incapa- minds that because we were schoolboys, discerning be- we had not ceased to be English gentlemen. ble of ft themselves tween what is right and what is wrong, I will not dwell further upon this point, be- between what is honourable and what is dis- cause I know that to a youthful audience to create brevity is the soul of eloquence but before honourable ; but they endeavour ; among their pupils a healthy public opinion, concluding, I wish to say with what satisfac- and through its instrumentality to maintain tion I have perceived the catholic character the proper discipline of the school. I am of this establishment, not only in the techni- certain that there is no- more fruitful princi- cal acceptation of that term in respect of its ple, no more certain mode of gaining at the freedom from any religious restrictions or same time the confidence of the pupils, and controversial impediments to its utility, but enlisting them on the side of order, regulari- in the sense that its healthful influence seems ty and good conduct, than by thus making to extend throughout the whole Dominion of an appeal to their honourable feelings. Edu- Canada, and even into distant parts of Ame- cated myself at a public school, where, rica. I have already had the pleasure of perhaps, this principle of trustfulness towards speaking to two or three boys who have come the boys has been carried out to the greatest from the Southern States— one from Georgia, extent, I know how it acts upon the minds and another, I think, from New Orleans of the individuals who are thus honoured by and it speaks well for the reputation of this the^confidence of their master. Although, of college that such distant students should course, like other boys, we were very often have been attracted to its walls. There is idle, and occasionally disobedient—although also another very favourable regulation which we committed many things for which we I have observed, and which had not been deserved punishment, and for which, I thought of when I was a boy, and which, in must say, we received it, yet we each of us a country like this, cannot fail to be of the had this feeling, that, placed upon our ho- greatest convenience. I mean the principle nours, as it were, we disdained to commit a of allowing the streams of education, after base, a dishonourable, or an unworthy ac- they have flowed together for some time, to tion. (Loud applause.) Perhaps the dis- bifurcate in different directions, so as to al- tinction between what was strictly right and low the boys to follow the course which

wrong was somewhat confused ; though we their taste or talents point out, or their pa- gave rather a lib e ral interpretation to the rents in their discretion may select for them. code which we thus set ourselves, yet, not- By this means you are able to furnish stu- THE SPEECHES OF THE. 1872

dents to all those varieties of occupation with such a magnificent specimen of his

which are so multiform in a new country. skill ; and, in the next place, oh the liberali- It must be a source of pride to you that this ty and public spirit of the Government and college should have furnished to the annals the people, which placed at his disposal the of the State the names of so many distin- means of executing his design. (Applause.) guished persons. You already count among But it is not only on account of the material those who have gone before you the Prime appliances for the distribution of instruction Minister of this Province, and porhaps some that I have to congratulate you. I must day you may also be able to point out, as also felicitate those whom I see present still amongst the numbers of your predecessors, more upon the fact that they have been able the Prime Minister of the Dominion. (Ap- to collect within these walls, and to furnish present here to-day plause. ) We have one this Hall and its chairs with a President.aud of the most distinguished gentlemen of this with a body of Professors, amply worthy of Province, a person eminent in the legal pro- the building which they occupy. (Applause.) fession, who was also a pupil of this establish- Thanks to an intimacy I had the good for- ment, and it must be a mutual satisfaction tune of forming with some relatives of Dr. to him, as well as to the pupils assembled in McCaul, before I reached Canada, I was in his presence, that they should have this op- some measure aware of the successful na- portunity of meeting. (Applause.) I thank ture of his labours, and of the noble work you, Mr. Principal ; I thank you, ladies and upon which he was engaged. (Applause.) you, gentlemen ; and I thank boys Since my arrival here, I have also been able for the kind and hearty welcome yon have to assure myself that perhaps in no other of given to the representative Her Majesty ; educational establishment is there to be and I am quite certain that, wherever a Ca- found a more competent body of Professors, nadian boy i3 to be found, there, also, Her or a collection of gentlemen who, in their Majesty will tind a loyal subject." (Loud several departments, are more qualified to cheers.) do justice to the subjects which they under- [His Excellency made the acquaintance of take to teach. (Applause.) It is a special the students of Ontario, at Toronto Univer- matter of congratulation to the inhabitants sity, on the 18th of October.] of Toronto that there should be residing in "Dr. McCaul, Ladies and Gen- their midst a body of gentlemen of this de- tlemen, —I cannot quit the presence scription, because it cannot fajl to be an of this distinguished company with- advantage, to any society that, mixing upon out desiring, in a few words, to ex- familiar terms with them upon every occa- press to the Chancellor, to the Vice-Chancel- sion, there should be found gentlemen of eru- lor, and the authorities of this institution, dition in the several departments of human and to those who upon this occasiou have knowledge, inasmuch as their presence and associated themselves with them in the pleas- their conversation cannot fail to stimulate ing welcome which they have been good the intellectual and the mental activity of all enough to extend to Lady Dufferin and my- who have the happiness of becoming acquaint- self, my best thanks for the kind and hearty ed with them. But, of course, ladies and reception which they have accorded us. I gentlemen, it is rather in their professorial have been looking forward for a considerable and professional character that we have now time with the greatest pleasure to this occa- to consider them, and I must say that no- sion. I had long since heard of the admir- thing has taken me more by surprise, while, able system of education which had been at the same time, nothing has given me established in the Province of Ontario, and greater pleasure, than to have perceived, in especially in the University of Toronto. consequence of the pleasing duty which I (Applause.) But I must say that any ex- have been called upon to perform, that, with- pectations I may have formed, however in the walls of this University, a greater pleasing, have been infinitely surpassed by number of subjects is taught and a more the pleasure I have experienced in my visit. practical direction is given to the education (Applause.) Until I reached Torouto itself, and to the studies of the students than with- I confess I was not aware that so magnificent in the walls of any University with which a specimen of Gothic architecture existed I have been hitherto acquainted. (Applause.) upon the American continent. (Applause.) All I can say is, that I myself, who have 1 can only say that the citizens of Toronto, been educated at Oxford, should have been as well as the students of this University, extremely grateful if the same means, the have to be congratulated, in the first place, same appliances, and the same advantages that amongst the inhabitants of their own for pursuing the various branches of study, Province there should have been found a which were not then considered by any gentleman so complete a master of his art as means a necessary portion of our curriculum, to have been enabled to decorate this town had been placed within my reach. (Ap- — ) )

1872 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 17

plause. ) But, while I hasten to pay this not hope to attain, and such a position is compliment to the practical character of one of the most honourable objects of ambi- many of the departments over which these tion which a young man could put before distinguished gentlemen preside, I trust it him as his aim in life. And I would further will not be for a moment imagined that remind them that they may hope to attain upon that account 1" am one of those who are to not only the prizes which exist in this coun- disposed to undervalue or to desire to see try in the several professions they may relegated to an inferior position that which I adopt, or in the public service of the^Domin- consider to be the backbone of a liberal edu- ion, but that there are other prizes of an cation—I mean the study of the Greek and imperial nature within their reach, —for the Roman classics. (Applause.) lam happy Queen of England does noi; stop to enquire to think that, amongst the many students to whether a deserving citizen is an Australian, whom it has been my good fortune to deliver or a Canadian, or a Scotchman, or an Irish-

prizes, there have been several young gentle- man, or an Englishman ; it is enough that he men who have distinguished themselves both should have rendered the State good service, in Latin and in Greek, and I think that, es- and this is his title to her favour and reward.

pecially in a new country like this, where (Applause. ) Already we have in this coun- there is such an exuberant display of all the try a distinguished example of the truth of riches of nature—where every one almost is what I have said. Within a few weeks past, primarily concerned in material pursuits —it to a native born Canadian, and at the same is a point of the very greatest importance time one of the most distinguished servants that the lessons and the experiences of anti- of the Empire, the Queen has been pleased to quity should not be lost sight of, but that a extend a signal mark of her favour, and has knowledge of the learning, of the poetry, invited Sir John Macdonald to become a and of the history of the past should libera- member of the Imperial Privy Council.

lize our modern ideas. (Applause. ) In con- (Applause. ) There are others, friends of my sidering the educational system of Toronto, own, who, in their early life having been so far as I have been able to make myself ac- Colonists, on returning to England have quainted with it, it seems to me as though its fought their way into Parliament, and are University were the key-stone of that educa- now counted among the most distinguished tional arch upon which the future prosperity and successful rulers of the Empire. lb will of the Province must depend. (Applause. be enough for me to make this slight allusion Owing to the very high standard which has to this subject. I am sure those I am address- been fixed for matriculation, there is natu- ing will lay it to heart, and the lesson I have rally required of every educational establish- ventured to inculcate will not be lost upon ment of a lower degree the maintenance of a them. Ladies and gentlemen, I have to correspondingly high standard, while that apologise for the extremely imperfect nature standard itself becomes the platform from of these remarks. It was not until a very which the students, when once they have short time before I made my appearance succeeded in entering your walls, take a among you that I was made aware that I new departure, and endeavour to reach, be- should be called .upon to do more than make fore they have finished their University a formal reply to the very cordial address career, even a still higher elevation. And with which I have been honoured. Had I now, in conclusion, I would ask permission known that an opportunity would be afforded to say a very few words more, especially to me of addressing, for the first iiime since I addressed to the students of the University have been in Canada, an audience so dis- themselves. I by no means venture to read tinguished in every respect, both for its learning them a lecture, or to preach them a sermon ; and, I may say for its beauty (ap- but I would simply remind them that per- plause), I certainly should have made that haps in no country in the world, under no preparation which I feel to be necessary, possible conditions which can be imagined, and the want of which I trust you will kind- do a body of young men, such as those 1 see ly excuse. " (Loud applause. around me, start in life under more favour- [On the 23rd of October His Excellency able auspices, or enter upon their several made the following speech to the young careers with a more assured certainty that adies of Loretto School : ] by industry, by the due cultivating of their " Young Ladies, —I can assure you that I intelligence, by sobriety of manners and of find it very difficult, indeed, to discover conduct, they may attain the greatest prizes words which will express, with sufficient of life. I would remind them that they are earnestness, my deep sense of the kindness citizens of a country in which the most with which you have received me to-day. cherished prizes of ambition are open to all When I look around and consider all the that, however humble the origin of any one preparations which have been made for my of them may have been, there is no position welcome, I scarcely know to which to refer the service of the country which he may with the greatest admiration. The young 2 "

is THE SPEECHES OF THE 1872 ladies themselves, rauged like a bed of flow- from them—the instruction which you have ers in the sunshine of spring tide, —the beau- had here will do as much as any earthly tiful music which has been sung with such thing can do to'sustain and comfort you, and taste, delicacy, and feeling, more especially will prove, to the end of your lives, a de- the song which was written by my mother, lightful reminiscence." to which, naturally, I can never listen with- TO THE BISHOPS OF THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND. out deep emotion, all have combined to make [Delivered in response to an address from an impression upon me which will never fade the Bishops of the Church of England in away. I have been extremely interested in Canada, at Ottawa, on the 6th Nov., 1872.] learning, from the observations which fell "My Lords, —As the representative of from His Grace the Archbishop, the origin our most gracious Queen, who is the Head of of this community, and I am proud to think the Church, of which you are the Bishops of it was from Irish shores it set forth to this the Ecclesiastical Province, I accept with country upon its beneficent mission. 1 con- pleasure the address of welcome which you gratulate you heartily, young ladies, upon have presented to me, and, in doing so, I the fortunate circumstance which has placed fulfil a function in especial accordance with you within these walls, and I am sure, from my delegated office. But it is not solely as all I have heard and witnessed of the noble representative of our Queen in her relation- work in which the sisters are engaged, that ship to the Church of England, but rather as the benefits which will be spread abroad the Chief Governor of this great Dominion through the Dominion cannot be over-estima- and her Civil Minister, that I desire to record ted. In speaking of a certain lady, an Eng- my satisfaction at receiving so cordial an lish writer, famous in his time, concluded a expression of good- will from the rulers of a brilliant passage in her honour by observ- religious community whose influences have ing, that ' to know her was itself a been so generally beneficial throughout the liberal education.' I would venture to re- country. Conciliating and blameless to those commend you to lay this observation to of your fellow-subjects who are not members heart, and to remember that the character of your communion, you faithfully maintain and conduct of the women of a country do in this new land the faith, discipline and more, perhaps, than anything else to elevate doctrines of the Mother Church, while, by the tone of feeling amongst its inhabitants, to your efforts to spread abroad true religion, inspire them with high thoughts anc1 noble and to inculcate the truth of the Gospel, endeavours, and with that spirit of chivalry upon which alone national prosperity and which raises our nature far above its ordinary the happiness of a people is founded, you level. When, however, these sentiments contribute to promote the present and ensure are still further illuminated by a spirit of the future greatness of Canada. I can devotion, and directed by the counsels of assure you that no efforts shall be wanting on religion, we have just cause to hope that the my part to further your religious endeavours. career of such a nation will receive the bless- In conclusion, I beg to thank you, on Lady ing of God, and will prove a benefit to the Dufferin's behalf and on my own for your world at iarge. I wish more especially to prayerful aspirations and kind wishes. express to the sisters themselves my deep UNVEILING HER MAJESTY'S STATUE AT and hearty sympathy with them in their MONTREAL. lives of retirement and self- sac*. ifice,and I can- [Delivered on the 21st November, at not imagine that there can be a greater con- Victoria Square, Montreal. The Statue was solation to their own minds, or that a more procured by the citizens.] perfect tribute could be paid to the utility "Gentlemen, —It is with a degree of and high character of their work than the pleasure, very difficult to express in words, fact that the pupils placed under their that I find myself engaged in the discharge guardianship and beneath the influence of of a duty so appropriate to my office, and so their saintly lives should include the flower congenial to my feelings, as that which you of the Catholic maidenhood of Toronto. I have imposed upon me to-day. (Cheers.) can only say, in conclusion, that, on my Among the many circumstances which have own behalf as well as on behalf of the made me feel at what a fortunate epoch I Countess of Dufferin, I thank you again and have arrived in Canada, by no means the again, and that I wish to each one of you least agreeable is the fact that there should individually, and to the community collec- have been reserved to me this opportunity tively, all the happiness that this world can of taking part in a ceremony which evinces, give. I make no doubt but that, whatever in so marked and general a manner, the un- may be the dangers, the anxieties, the trials failing loyalty and affection entertained by and temptations which, in your future lives, the citizens of this large, prosperous and you will have to encounter—and there is wealthy town to the person and throne of none of us whose life is entirely exempt our Sovereign. (Cheers.) It is, therefore, —; ) ]

1872 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 19 with the most heartfelt satisfaction that I When, therefore, you cast your eyes up to undertake the function now alloted to me, this work of art, let the image of the woman, and that I become the momentary depositary as well as of the Queen, be enshrined in your of this unique and precious gift with which recollections, and let each citizen remember vou, gentlemen, the subscribers to the under- that in her, whose sculptured lineaments he taking, are desirous to grace your city, and now regards, he has an example of prosperity which you now commission me to hand over borne with meekness, of adversity with as a perpetual ornament to the inhabitants patience, of the path of duty unfalteringly of Montreal and to their children for ever. followed, and of a blamelessness of existence (Applause.) And I must say it is to no which has been a source of pride to every mean heritage that these future generations English heart—(cheers) —and whose pure and will fall heirs, for, thanks to the magic radiant influence has shed its holy light on a power of the sculptor, long after we thousand thousand British homes. (Great -and those who have loved and honoured applause.) Above all, let each Canadian Queen Victoria shall have passed away, patriot remember as he contemplates with there will still remain to them and to their pride the ever brightening destinies of his descendants, untouched by time, this breath- native country—let your children and your ing representation of that open and intelli- children's children remember, as, generation gent regard, that sweet womanly grace and after generation, this great Dominion gathers imperial majesty of aspect, which in her strength and power, that it was under the lifetime combined to render the presence of auspices and the government of her whose the Queen of England more august than that statue I now confide unto your keeping that of any contemporary monarch. (Tremendous these mighty Provinces were confederated cheering.) It is to you, then, citizens of into a still mightier State, and that the foun-

Montreal, that I now turn ; it is in your dations of that broad Dominion were laid hands that I now place this sacred deposit which I trust is destined to prove the bright- it is on you that I lay the charge of guard- est ornament, and I trust the most powerful ing for yourselves and those who come after adjunct, of the Empire of Britain. (Great you this fair image of your Queen, this enthusiasm.) Gentlemen, I thank you again gracious impersonation of the Majesty of for the opportunity you have given me of Britain, this stately type and pledge of our taking part in these proceedings, and for Imperial unity, this crowned and sceptred those kind expressions which you have ad- symbal of those glorious institutions which dressed to me personally. I feel I can make we have found to be so conducive to the no better return than by saying that, in the maintenance of individual liberty, and discharge of my office in this country, it is of constitutional freedom (Loud applause.) my desire and hope to follow, at however Gentlemen, it was\my good fortune in humble a distance, the example of that be- •early life to serve near the person loved Sovereign who, during a long reign, of our Sovereign. At tb.at time no domestic has faithfully trod in the paths of the British calamity had thrown its ineffaceable shadow Constitution, and has never once failed in across the threshold of her home. I was her duty * to her Crown, her Ministers, her then a spectator of her daily life, its pure Parliament, or her people." (Prolonged joys, its refined and noble occupations, its cheers. duties neter neglected, but their burdens [His Excellency then made the following shared by the tenderest of husbands and speech in French, acceding to the request of most sagacious of friends. It was then that the Mayor : — I learned the secret of that hold Her Majesty "Messieurs,—Je le ferai, sans doute, possesses aver the hearts of her subjects in d'une maniere bien imparfaite, mais je ne every part or* her extensive empire—(cheers) saurais voir cette c^remonie solennelle se and when in latter days death had for ever terminer, sans essayer de vous exprimer of shattered the bright visions her early dans votre propre langue combien j'ai et6" happiness, and left her to discharge, alone heureux d'assister a cette belle fete, et de a,nd unaided, during long years of widowhood, pouvoir apprecier l'empressement que vous in the isolation of an empty palace, the avez mis a y prendre part, de votre cdte. weighty and oppressive functions of her Je n'ignore pas, messieurs, que dans nulle royal station, renewed opportunities were partie de son vaste empire, notre Souveraine afforded me of observing with what patience, saurait compter sur un denouement plus patriotism and devotion to the public service complet que celui des Canadiens-Frangais. her brave and noble nature bore each burden Brave et noble race qui, la premiere, four- and discharged each daily task. (Applause.) nit a PEurope les moyens d'importer la civi- From dissipation, gaieties, the distraction lisation sur le continent d'Amenque. Race of uociety, the widowed Sovereign may have valeureuse et hardie dont les explorateurs, shrunk, but from duty never. (Loud cheers.) dans l'inte>ieur de ce continent out permis 20 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873

non- treating this great institution with respect if a I'industrie Europeenne de s'implanter I did not Benlement sue lea bonis du Saint- Laurent, promise to myself on some futnre mais encore dans les riches vallees de l'Ohio occasion, when I shall have had more leisure les premiers forts than has been possible to me during my r. re- et du Mississippi ; quelle sent visit eri«ea et les premiers 6tablis8ements qu'elle to Montreal, to take advantage of forma BOnt deveuus aujourd'hui, grace au the privilege which belongs to me as visitor jagement droit et a l'espece d'instinct qui la to address the students. (Applause.) And 1 earacte'isent, le noyau de grandes villes et am less inclined at the present moment to et c'est a leur co- trespass upon your time, because within the de puissantes populations ; operation actuelle et a leur intelligence na- last few weeks the whole subject of Univer- sity turelle, que nous devons une boune partie Education has been most exhaustively considered and discussed three of de la condition prospere de cette Province. by the Le spectacle de deux peuples composes de principal statesmen of England. If any of nationality si diverses s'efforgant, a l'envi the professors, if auy of the students should l'un de l'autre, de prouver leur loyaute a leur have happened to have read the speech of Reine et au gouvernement, et travaillant de Mr. Gladstone at Liverpool, of the Duke of concert et dans une harmonie parfaite au Somerset at Plymouth, and of Mr. Bruce bien de leur commune patrie, restera l'un des when addressing hi3 constituents, I am sure will it faits les plus remarquables et les plus heureux they feel would be impossible for de l'histoire du monde, en meme temps qu'il any one to add anything to the combined emoignera de la sagesse politique et des- treatment by those gentlemen of this sub- sentiments magnanimes dont sont penetr^s ject. Of course, we are all aware that in tous les membres de la grande famille Cana- England and elsewhere a very violent con- dienne." test i3 raging between those who regard the AT M'GILL COLLEGE. Art courses as amply suihcient for all the [Delivered on the 22nd of January, in re- real purposes for which educational estab- ply to an address read on behalf of the Col- lishments are founded, while upon the other lege by the Chancellor, the Hon. Charlea hand, a school equally respectable, and sup- Dewey Day. His Excellency's visit aroused ported by equal authority, is inclined to de- great enthusiasm among the students.] nounce a system of classical education as a "Me. Chancellor, Ladies and Gentle- prejudice or superstition of the past, and to the MEX> — I C an assure you that I am deeply set up material and applied sciences as sensible of the warm and flattering welcome their only curriculum. Mr. Gladstone on which you have given me—a welcome not the one hand, with a very natural affection only conveyed in the words of the address for his own Alma Mater, went so far as to which you, Mr. Chancellor, have just read, say that he considered even the unimproved bat which has been still further exemplified course which prevailed at Oxford when he and accentuated by the ceremony which pre- himself was a student was quite sufficient to ceded my admission to your halls. Only furnish as well educated a set of young men upon one other occasion, and that the most as the necessities of the age required, and important in the lives of each of us, have that by the occasional training which was Lady Dufferm and myself been treated to there given, the mind was more fitly pre- similar honour, and that was upon our mar- pared than it could have been by anv other riage day. I can only say that if the means for the various difficulties, struggles, 1 coaches ' of this colleges are as good as the and contests of life. On the other hano, the - •horses ' —(applause and laughter)—the stu- Duke of Somerset took an opposite view, and re dents cannot fad to take very high and ferrin.; with something approaching disdain creditable degrees. Ladies and gentlemen, I to the assertion made by Mr. Gladstone, that do not propose to trouble you upon the pre- the construction of a violin had exhibited as sent occasion with anything more than a much ingenuity and intellectual power as very brief but very warm expression of my the invention of the steam engine, called thanks, not only for the welcome which you upon his audience to compare the respective have addressed personally toniyself and to the achievements of material and political Countess of Dafferin, but still more for that science. Now, I confess, as far as I myself exhibition of loyalty with which you have am individually concerned, my own train- gratified me as the representative of Her ing naturally leads me to regard perhaps Mo.st Gracious Majesty. In return, I can with undue favour a classical curriculum as assure you, with the most perfect truth, the backbone of a liberal education ; but be that there is no university in any part of that as it may, and without venturing for a Her Majesty's dominions which the Queen moment to pronounce a dogmatic opinion does not regard with interest and solicitude. upon so debateable a topic, I cannot help re- Applause.) At the same time, I think it membering that, in this country at all events, ' ight to mention that I feel I should not be the almost overwhelming reasons which, on 1873 EARL OF DUFFEPJX. 21

the one hand, may be urged in favour of i the Dominion at large, upon the fact that an paramount attention being given to the establishment so well conducted, founded physical and practical sciences, are con- upon so wide a basis, endowed with such a fronted with arguments of corresponding hea thy vitality, should be daily pouring force in favour of the arts and classical forth into the world a band of young men, learning ; for while on the one hand the pros- who each sets out upon his separate career, perity of the Dominion almost entirely de- endowed with all the advantages which a pends upon every one of its inhabitants university education can give, and amongst using every exertion and straining every those advantages you must reckon not mere- nerve to develop its material resources ; on ly the learning, not merely the intellectual the other, the fact of the whole population training which is the end of all education, being engaged in these necessary occupations, bnt that more subtle and even more impor- and in the accumulation of wealth, renders it tant quality which will enable the most of vital importance casual acquaintance to distinguish between a all the more a matter | that the purely intellectual life of the com- university man and one who is not. I can- munity should be ennobled, embellished, not conclude these few and imperfect words, disciplined, and refined by the wisdom, the which I regret not having had the opportu- poetry, the wit, the experience, and the nity to study before I ventured to address philosophy of the classic ages. Leaving, you, without commenting upon the fact that however, this part of the subject, it is to a citizen of Montreal that we are I' will conclude by addressing a very indebted for this great establishment, and few words to those young men who that it is to the continued and repeated have shown in so gratifying a manner munificence of other citizens of Montreal, with what indulgence they will probably who have imitated his liberality, that the listen to anything which falls from their well- usefulness of the University has been con- wisher and a friend. I would ask them, tinuously expanded. In this country here- then, to remember that the generation which ditary distinctions do not take such root, or has preceded them has succeeded in bringing become so completely a part of the social to a successful issue one of the most difficult system, as in Europe; but I will venture to and one of the most beneficial achievements say that the very fact of any man having con- which statesmen have ever undertaken. The nected his name in so honourable a manner generation which now lives and superintends with an institution of this kind will ever the affairs of this great country has been prove to hi3 descendants as legitimate a able, in spite of no ordinary difficulties and source of ancestral pride as any that ever impediments, to weld into an united Domi- originated in the Letters Patent of a Sove- nion the whole of those magnificent provinces reign. I thank you again, Mr. Chancellor of Canadian America which are contained and gentlemen, for the sentiments of kind- between the Atlantic and the Pacific. It is ness contained in jour address to Lady Duf- to the guardianship and the improvement of ferin and myself. I trust that during oui that inheritance which in due time those I residence in this country we may have many now address will be called, and a heavy bur- opportunities of improving our acquaintance den and responsibility will lie upon them to with you, and I consider it a matter of no take the best advantage of that glorious small advantage that, whenever we come to birthright to which they are destined to fall Moutreal, it will be possible for us to recur heirs, and in no degree to be behind those to the intimacy of a body of men that repre- who have preceded them in their devotion to description of ; sent so ably every branch and their native country. I would further re- human learning." mind them that happily they live in a coun- AT MCGILL NORMAL SCHOOL. try whose inhabitants are as free as the air [Delivered upon the same visit as that up- they breathe, that there is not a single prize on which the preceding speech was made, which the ambition of man can desire to ! in reply to the address of the teachers of the which they may not aspire, and which they Normal School.] may not be certain of making theirs, if only " Ladies and Gentlemen, —I can assure they will apply those faculties with which you it gives me the greatest pleasure to have Providemce has endowed them with industry, had an opportunity of paying you this visit, intelligence, and perseverance. There is not of [ and showing you by my presence here'to- one of you here who not rise may to the high- I day not only what an interest I take in the est offices of the State, who may not render general subject of education, but how much his name illustrious for all time to come, who importance I attach to those particular hi ay not engrave for himself on the annals of functions which you will be shortly called j his eountry an imperishable record. Finally, ! upon to perform. It wouW. be almost im- ladies and gentlemen, I must congratulate ' possible to exaggerate the responsibility this university, this city, this Province and which rests upon you, because it is upon j THE SPEECHES OF THE 187:

you, upon the teachers who are spread rae in conversation ; trample on ladies abroad in every village and district from one dresses, shoulder their way about, without a end of the country to the other, that must thought of the inconvenience they were- depend the due education of the great mass occasioning, and, what was more remark- of the people, I am happy to think, from able, these thoughtless indiscretions what I have seen in Toronto and here, that did not seem to attract the attention every precaution has been taken and every of their parents. When I ventured to. means has been furnished which man's in- make an observation on this to the people genuity can contrive to fit you for the suc- with whom I have been travelling, I was cessful performance of your important task. always told that these little peccant indivi- It is a delightful thing to know that a num- duals came from the other side of the line.

ber of young men and women, whose intelli- Well, I only hope that this may be so ; at all gence is printed on every lineament of their events, without enquiring too strictly how countenances, should year after year be sent that may be, I trust that the teachers of the forth from each of these parent establish- schools of Canada will do their very best to- ments, spreading abroad in all directions inculcate into their pupils the duties of sound teaching and whatever is necessary politeness, of refined behaviour, of respect to develop the intellectual vigour and activi- for the old, and of reverence for their

ty of the nountry. I do not know that there parents ; that they will remember that a is any practical suggestion I have to make to great deal may be done by kindly and whole-

you, and yet there is one thing of which I some advice in this particular ; and that, if would venture to remind you, namely, that they only take a little trouble, they will con- in your future relations with your young tribute greatly to render Canada not only pupils, you should remember that your func- one of the best educated, most prosperous, tions must not be confined merely to the de- most successful, and richest, but one of the velopment of their intelligence and the im- most polite, best bred, and well-mannered parting of information, but that there is countries of the American continent." also another duty as important as either of AT ST. PATRICK'S ORPHAN ASYLUM. these, and that is, that you should endeavour [Delivered in reply to an address on the to refine, discipline, and elevate their gene- 30th. January.] ral behaviour, rendering them polite, well- " Mr. Secretary, Ladies and Gentle- bred, deferential, respectful to their parents, men,—So far from it having been a sacrifice to their elders, and their superiors. Per- on my part to come here, I can assure you haps in a new country, where, on every side, that it has been to me an unmixed gratifica- we are surrounded by the evidences of pros* tion. No one can find himself under this perity—where a spirit of independence is an roof, in the presence of such a scene as this, essential element of success—where, at a without esteeming the invitation which he very early age, young persons are called has had the pleasure of receiving a very great upon to fight their own battles and to un- privilege. The allusion which has been dertake their own responsibilities, it is very made in your address to that devastating natural that there should be developed an famine by which Ireland was depopulated in exuberant spirit of self-confidence. Now, 1846 and 1847 has recalled to my recollection what I would venture to ask you from time very bitter and affecting memories. It so to time to impress upon your pupils is this, happened that it was in that year I first was that although, upon the one hand, there is called upon to undertake the responsibilities no quality more creditable than self-respect, attaching to the ownership of land in Ireland, yet, on the other hand, the very idea of and my first initiation into my duties as an self-respect excludes self-asssertion, and I Irish landlord consisted in an endeavour to say this the more readily because I confess, confront the exigencies of that terrible dis- if there is any criticism which I have to pass aster. Although in my own neighbourhood, upon the youth of this new country—I do owing to peculiar circumstances, the distress not say of Canada especially, but of the never reached a point which did not admit of continent of America—it is that 1 have alleviation, circumstances led me to the been struck by the absence of that deference southern portion of the kingdom, where and respect for those who are older than famine had seized upon the people, and with themselves to which we still cling in Europe. my own eyes I was forced to see all its terri- Now, to use a casual illustration; I have ble consequences. Since coming to this observed, in travelling on board the steam- country I have had occasion to make mysel boats ou the St. Lawrence, children run- acquainted with a fact, of which I confes ning about from one end of the vessel to the until then I was but very imperfectly in- other, whom more than once I have been formed, and thai is, the noble way in which tempted to take up and give a good whip- the inhabitants of Canada assisted the unfor- ping. I have seen them thrust aside gentle- tunate emigrants who, forced to fly under )

1873 EARL OF DUFFERIN., 23

the stroke of famine from their own country, hitherto in existence, from taking that im- arrived upon the shores of North America mediate and personal interest in your affairs not only destitute, but many of them struck which your recent incorporation with the down and perishing by disease. I am now Dominion will henceforth enable me to do. aware of how many of the clergy of Canada, But it is upon other grounds than these that both Catholic and Protestant, as well as of 1 desire to take this the earliest opportunity the members of the medical profession, fell afforded me, of offering you my warmest con- victims to their noble and courageous en- gratulations on the great change in your

deavours to assist those unfortunate persons ; political condition which has so recently and I confess that when I read the record of taken place. Hitherto, thanks to the native the mortality whieh then took place amongst ability of your public men, and the intelli- those classes to whom I have referred, I was gence of your Local Legislature, your affairs perfectly horror-struck with the facts that have been administered with so much suc- cess were revealed ; and so, as an Irishman, if on as to have secured the utmost peace and

no osher account, I shall ever bear in my prosperity to your citizens ; and these ad- heart the deep sense of the debt which we vantages, as far as all matters of domestic all owe to this country, and especially to interest are concerned, you will still retain, those classes to whom I have referred, for but to these there will be superadded the the assistance which they then rendered to innumerable benefits which cannot fail to us. The existence of this asylum only shows flow from your complete and perfect union that in the chastisements with which we are with the Dominion—a great and powerful afflicted, a merciful Providence veryfrequently community, whose political importance and

sows the seeds of innumerable benefits ; for, whose material wealth and resources are as has been stated by your Secretary, it is yearly on the increase. A larger and more owing to the emergency which then arose, important field will be afforded to the talents and which you endeavoured to meet, that and abilities of your public men, all of whom this admirable establishment continues to have so patriotically united in pro-

dispense those benefits to the unfortunate moting the confederation of the Island ; and orphans of the locality, even although the who, I feel assured, will be perfectly com- immediate occasion to which it owes its petent to hold their own, and to make their existence has happily ceased to endure. mark, and worthily to represent your senti-

(Applause. ) I am very glad to think that ments and interest sin the central Legislature the establishment is being conducted under at Ottawa, while all the other arrangements such satisfactory auspices, and I am sure which have become necessary to consummate it will not be considered inappropriate if, on the Union, whether of a commercial or finan- behalf of those who are intesested in all such cial character, will not fail, I trust, to pour good and noble works as these, I should a fuller tide of vitality and wealth through venture to tender to those ladies who are all the arteries which minister to your present, and who, I understand, are good material welfare. On the other hand, your enough to devote their time and their ener- accession to the Dominion will powerfully gies to the education and to the interests of contribute to its strength and completeness these little fatherless children, my best while your well-known loyalty will still fur- thanks, accompanied by an assurance that, ther reinforce the devotion of its citizens to in common with every one who is acquainted the throne and the Empire. In conclusion, with their good deeds, I am deeply sensible gentlemen, allow me to assure you that it of that all society owes to them. "(Applause. will be my especial care to watch over your AT CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. interests with the most anxious solicitude, [Delivered in reply to an address presented and, as far as in me lies, to make it a point upon his Excellency's landing for the first of conscience that you shall not be losers by time on the Island, on the 18th July.] the bargain you have made. I rejoice to think "Gentlemen,— that so beautiful a still further ^ Although, from time to day should time, it has been the good fortune of many of enhance the enjoyment of our arrival at your my predecessors to set foot upon your hos- beautiful Island ; and, in returning thanks pitable shores, none of them has ever arrived for the kindly words you have especially ad- amongst you under such happy auspices as dressed to Her Excellency, I can assure you myself ; and it is with unspeakable pleasure that we both look forward with the greatest that I return you my warmest thanks for pleasure to a visit so happily commenced." the cordial welcome you have extended to AT HALIFAX CLUB DINNER. me. Until the present moment each suc- [Delivered in acknowledgment of the toast cessive Governor- General of Canada, though of their Excellencies' health, eloquently pro- nominally invested with viceregal authority posed by Sir William Young, Chief Justice, over your Island, was necessarily precluded, on the 8th August. ] by the separate system of governments ** Gentlemen, —If anything were wanting —

24 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873 to enhance the honour done me, it would be of preserving that subtle and inward balance found in the eloquent and most kind and of sympathy, judgment and opinion that considerate to ms in which the health of the should elevate the representative of your Countess of Dufferin and myself has been Sovereign above the faintest suspicion of proposed by the Chief Justice. When I having any other desire, aim, or ambition, first arrived amongst you I was of course a than to follow the example of his Royal Mis- stranger to all but a very few, and although, tress in the relations which she has constant- with her traditional loyalty, your city was ly maintained towards her Ministers, her prepared to pay every proper mark of re- Parliament and her people— (tremendous spect to the representative of Her Majesty, cheering)—to remember every hour of the day you have made us feel that, as our acquain- that he has but one duty and but one office, tance improved, a sentiment of personal to administer his government in the interests kindness and good-will has begun to mingle of the whole Canadian people, and of the in daily increasing proportions with the offi- Dominion at large. (Great cheering.) Of cial hospitalities with which we have been course, gentlemen, having been but one brief overwhelmed. (Great cheering. ) Of course year in the country, my character and my these indications of your friendliness and n- sentiments in these respects can scarcely be dulgence are very gratifying to my feelings, known, and there is always a danger during nor can you be surprised that I should re- the fervour of^those political controversies ciprocate your good-will in even a still which, seem to be conducted by the Press of j warmer manner. (Cheers.) I am sure I Canada with peculiar animation (great t — shall ever look back to my visit here as a ' laughter)—of unauthorized references being most pleasurable reminiscence. Independent made to the Governor General's supposed i of the advantages I have enjoyed of becom- 1 sentiments, opinions and intentions, which ing acquainted with the material aspects and would convey to the uninstructed reader a J characteristics of the chief city of one of very erroneous impression of the conduct j the most important Provinces of the Domi- I and the attitude of the Chief of the State. nion, I have been able to make the personal Gentlemen, I do not make this remark j by acquaintance of almost all your eminent citi- way of complaint. If there is any person zens, your politicians, yourj clergy, your in Canada who has been kindky and consi- judges, and the heads of those various in- derately dealt with by the Press, —to whom terests and professions which maintain the the Press of every political complexion has intellectual vitality and minister to the com- shown indulgence and good- will, it is my- mercial prosperity of this the capital of self ; and it is a most natural, and by no Eastern North America. As a consequence, means an uncomplimentary circumstance, I feel that henceforth I shall be able to exa- that the organs of different shades of opi- mine with a warmer sympathy and a far nion should persuade themselves that the more intelligent appreciation than hereto- Governor General must necessarily be of fore, such problems affecting your welfare their way of thinking and see through their as may from time to time be submitted to spectacles (laughter) ; but what I wish to the consideration of my Government at Ot- say once for all—and I do not care how wide- tawa. And here, gentlemen, I should be ly this remark is disseminated—is this, that disposed to conclude this imperfect expres- there is no human being who is authorized sion of my thanks, were I not desirous of to make any statement or suggestion as to ; conveying to my friend the Chief Justice the what my opinions or sentiments may be in great gratification I have derived from the respect of any political topic, or who has remarks which have dropped from him in re- ever been in a position, or is likely to be in gard to my official position as Governor- a position, to make anything approaching to General of this great Dominion. Gentlemen, a conjecture upon points of this description. I am well aware that this is, as it were, a It is true my object and my desire is to in- domestic festival, and that nothing could be form my mind upon every subject af- more inopportune than the slightest allusion fecting the interests of the country by con- to any political topic, but I may be permit- versation and by discussion with any one ted to say this much in reference to what who can afford me instruction or informa- has fallen from the Chief Justice, that if tion, and it would be very unfortunate for there is one obligation whose importance me if this freedom of intercourse with all I appreciate more than another, as attaching classes and parties in Canada, from which I to the functions of my office, it is the abso- derive so much benefit and pleasure, should lute and paramount duty of maintaining not be trammelled by the dread lest this casual merely au outward attitude of perfect im- intercourse should b«come the foundation partiality towards the various parties into for inference, comment or conjecture in the which the political world of Canada, as of Pre*a. No, gentUmen; I understand my the Mother Country, is divided, but still more duty too well ever to allow my judgment or )) —

1873 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 25

my sympathies to be surprised into political as the discipline applied occasionally to their partizanship. My one thought and desire is idol by the unsophisticated worshippers of the welfare of Canada as a whole ; to main- Mumbo Jumbo—(immense laughter)—when tain her honour, to promote her prosperity, their harvests are short, or a murrain visits to do my duty by her and her entire people, their flock. (Cheers.) For, gentlemen, of is the sole object of my ambition. When I this I am certain, that although he may converse with your public men, it scarcely sometimes err in his judgment, or fail in ever occurs to me to remember to what poli- serving you as effectually as he might desire, tical party they belong. I only see in them a Viceroy who honestly seeks to do his duty persons devoting themselves, each according (cheers) —to whom the interests of Canada to his lights, to the service of his country. are as precious and her honour as dear as his My only guiding star in the conduct and oVn—(immense cheering)—who steers, un- maintenance of my official relations with moved, an even course, indifferent to praise your public men is the Parliament of Canada or blame, between the political contentions — (cheers) —in fact, I suppose I am the only of the day (cheers), can never appeal in vain person in the Dominion whose faith in the to the confidence and generosity of the Cana- wisdom and in the infallibility of Parlia- dian people." (Immense apolause).

, ment is never shaken. (Great laughter.) 1873 - Each of you, gentlemen, only believe in Par- DESPATCH ON " THE PACIFIC SCANDAL,"

, liament so long as Parliament votes according [Political parties were now thrown into to your wishes (cheers) and convictions; the wildest commotion upon what is known ( — — I, gentlemen, believe in Parliament, no as "the Pacific Scandal." With the .matter which way it votes (laughter), and charges brought against the Government to those men alone whom the absolute will every one is familiar, and those who paid of the Confederated Parliament of the Do- any attention to the proceedings have each minion may assign to me as my responsible his own idea as to the innocence or culpabil- advisers can I give my confidence. (Cheers. ity of the Ministry. It was hardly to be Whether they are the heads of this party or expected that His Excellency could escape that must be a matter of indifference to the imputations of one kind or another in such a Governor General. So long as they are political upheaval. He did not. His ac- maintained by Parliament in their tion in proroguing Parliament on the 13th of positions, so long is he bound to August was reflected upon bitterly by the give them his unreserved confidence, Reform press, and as strongly commended by to defer to their advice, and loyally the Conservative organs. Let His Excel- to assist them with his counsels. (Applause. lency be his own defender. The following is Whenever in the vicissitudes of party warfare his despatch to the Earl of«Kimberly on the they are replaced others difficulty. by —(laughter) —he ] welcomes their successors with an equally No. 197. open and loyal regard. Such privat friend- Canada, August 15, 1873. ships as he may have formed he will have a ^ My Lord, — I have the honour to state, for right to retain. (Hear, hear.) As a reason- your Lordship's information, that at half- able being, he cannot help having convictions past three of the afternoon of Wednesday, upon the merits of different policies. (Hear.) the 13th instant, I prorogued Parliament. But these considerations are abstract, specu- As this event is likely to be regarded with lative, devoid of practical effect on his offi- dissatisfaction by one of the great political cial relations. (Cheers.) As the head of a parties in this country, and has been already Constitutional State, as engaged in the ad- animadverted upon in no measured terms by ministration of Parliamentary Government, a portion of the Canadian press, I propose to he has no political friends—still less need he give your Lordship a full account of the have political enemies—(great cheering); the circumstances under which it has taken possession of either—nay even to be sus- place. pected of possessing either—destroys his use- Although I have already acquainted fulness. (Cheers.) Sometimes, of course, your Lordship from time to time no matter how disconnected his personality with everything which has occur- may be from what Is taking place, his name red in connection with the grant of will get dragged into some controversy, and the Pacific Railway Charter, as well as with he may suddenly find himself the subject of the proceedings in and out of Parliament to criticism by the Press of whatever party which it has given rise, it may be well to may for the moment be out of humour preface my intended statement by a brief (laughter)—but uader these circumstances he recapitulation of its previous history. must console himself with the reflection that The scheme of a Canadian line of railway these spasmodic castigatiens (laughter) are from the Atlantic to the Pacific first acquir- as transitory and inneoaous (great laughter) ed a practical character in 1871, when its THE SPEECHES OF THE J87S construction in ten years from that date be- and character, and a Dominion Senator, was came one of the conditions on which British chairman. Columbia covenanted to enter into Confed- During the ensuing session—that is, in the eration. spring of 1872—both the Companies, the The first move towards, the realization of " Interoceanic " and "Canada Pacific," as the project seems to have been initiated not Sir Hugh's was now called, obtained Acts by a Canadian, but by an Englishman of the of Incorporation, and. at the same time, an name of Waddington, who, after broaching Act of Parliament was passed enabling the his proposals in Toronto and elsewhere, ap- Government to enter into a contract with parently without success, eventually suc- one or the other of the above-mentioned ceeded in obtaining the co-operation of a Companies, or with an amalgamation of the number of capitalists in Chicago and New two, or, if they should see fit, to grant a York, most of whom, though not all, were Royal Charter to a new and altogether dis- interested.in the "Northern Pacific Railway," tinct Company, in case an agreement should a United States line connecting at Lyndon be found impossible with those already in with the continental system, which it is in- existence. tended to carry across the northermost The terms which Government was autho- States of the Union to a port on the Pacific, rized to grant to whatever Company under- and which will consequently run parallel took the contract were settled in the last —though at a lower latitude and over a Parliament, and will already have been com- wider arc—with the proposed Canadian line. municated to your Lordship by my prede- A deputation from these gentlemen seem cessor, Lord Lisgar, who, up to this time, to have visited Ottawa in the autumn of was still in office ; but it may be convenient 1871, and to have had an interview with to mention that the principal concessions some members of the Canadian Government, consisted of a grant, under certain condi- by whom they were informed that the time tions, of 50,000,000 acres of land, in alter- for entering into negotiations for the con- nate blocks along the line, and of a subsidy struction of the railway had not arrived. of $30,000,000 (say £6,000,000 sterling). Of For several months no other proposition this sum, the interest of £2,250,000, which, t^- , was received by the Government, by the transference of the fortification loan '" ' but it is stated by Sir Francis to the same account, became eventually Hincks, in a letter of which I append a £3,800,000, was guaranteed by the Imperial copy, that, being in Montreal in the month Government. of July of the same year, he met Sir Hugh The session closed on the 14th June. Allan, and, giving him the names of some of Parliament was dissolved on the 8th July. the Americans who had made these advances, On the 25th June I arrived in this country, expressed his regret that a work of such im- and became personally cognizant of many of portance should fall into the hands of the events I now proceed to record. foreigners. Acting upon this suggestion, From the 15th July to the 12th October Sir Hugh Allan turned his attention to the the elections were being held. As soon as matter, and eventually, in conjunction with they were concluded, Sir John Macdonald these American gentlemen and some Quebec returned to Ottawa, and the Canadian Pacific friends of his own, formed a company for Railway became a frequent topic of conver- the prosecution of the work. But as the sation between us. My Government never session of 1872 approached, it became evi- seem to have favoured the idea of giving the dent that the admission of parties connected contract to either of the rival companies, with the American Pacific to a share in the who were then competing for the preference. contract for the Canada Pacific was become In Senator Macpherson's Company an Ontario unpopular, and, Parliament appearing to interest was very strongly represented. In share this feeling, it was announced by the Sir Hugh Allan's a Quebec interest predomi- Government to Sir Hugh Allan that no pro- nated. The contemplated undertaking posals emanating from an American Company would evidently tax the resources of the would be entertained. countrj' to the utmost. It would be unde- On this intimation, Sir Hugh Allan appears sirable, therefore, Sir JjDhn argued, that any to have addressed himself to the organization Canadians desirous of putting their shoulders of a purely Canadian Company, and gave to to the wheel should be excluded, and a the Government the most positive assurances fusion of the two Companies—as provided that he had entirely dissociated himself from for in their incorporation Acts, and contem- his American friends. plated by the Act of Parliament—was the In the meantime another Company had object to be attained. Into the intricate been formed in Toronto called the " Inter- and somewhat obscure negotiations which oceanic Company," of which Mr. Macpher- then ensued between Mr. Macpherson and son, a gentleman of very high standing Sir Hugh Allan, at the instance of my —

1873 EARL OF DUFFERIN

jq. Government, I need not enter. They caution seems to have been taken. All the JNo * 9 are sufficiently displayed in the Directors must be British subjects. The Blue Book which I subjoin, and which I President and the majority of the Directors have marked for reference. It suffices to must reside in Canada, and though the shares- say that, notwithstanding Sir John Mac- are transferable, no transfer can be made donald's efforts to bring the parties to an for the first six years without the consent understanding, the negotiation altogether of the Government, nor after six years with- failed, principally, as it was alleged on the out the consent of the Directors—the trans- one side, because Sir Hugh Allan had not fers in both cases being registered in the really broken off his connection with the books of the Company. American interest, and. on the other, be- Another subject which seemed constantly cause Mr. Macpherson was not willing to re- to preoccupy the mind of my Prime Minis- cognise the claims to the chairmanship of ter at this time was the necessity of prevent- Sir H. Allan, whose pretentions my Govern- ing any one individual, or any one interest, ment were disposed to favour, in considera- or combination of interests, whether repre- tion, as they stated, not only of his influen- sented by Sir Hugh Allan or another, from tial position in the Province of Quebec, but acquiring a predominant influence on the as having been the first Canadian in the field directory. Here again I am not sufficiently to associate himself with the enterprise. familiar with the acana of Board-rooms to In reference to this point, I may observe know whether the adjustments on which that, although I have no means of knowing Sir John relied were as effectual for the pur- either when or to what extent my Ministers pose as they appeared to me to be ; but I may have pledged themselves to favour Sir may observe that, although the scrutiny of Hugh Allan's election to the chairmanship, Parliament was directed under the light of the selection of such a person, the originator subsequent events to these especial points,, of the Oceanic line of communication be- neither House has expressed dissatisfaction tween Great Britain and Canada, a gentle- with the provisions of the Railway Charter, man who might fairly be regarded as the or the personnel of the governing body. On representative capitalist of the Dominion, the contrary, up to the last moment of the and who would be more likely than any session, on repeated occasions, Parliament other to make an impression upon the Eng- continued to manifest its confidence in those lish money market, was a choice which, at who framed the one and constituted the that time, few seemed disposed to question. other. If, therefore, as is alleged, a corrupt Baffled in their efforts to effect the amal- modification of the Pacific Railway Charter gamation they desired, Sir John Macdonald to the advantage of Sir Hugh Allan and his and his colleagues announced their intention American friends, was the consideration for of promoting the formation of a new and in- which these personages squandered the en- dependent Company, out of whatever ele- ormous sums asserted to have been spent, it ments of strength were to be found through- would seem that they have scarcely obtained out the Dominion, and shortly before the their money's worth—a result, I should meeting of the new Parliament in March, a imagine, foreign to the experience of such Board of Directors was constituted, which shrewd men of business. included not only some of the leading pro- But though the Parliament of Canada moters of the two defunct Companies, but thus unmistakably ratified the Railway representative men from each of the Pro- policy of my Ministers, its verdict on the' vinces of the Dominion. Of this Board, Sir subject was not destined to pass unchalleng- Hugh Allan seems to have been elected ed. On the 2nd of April, Mr. Lucius Seth Chairman as a matter of course, and to the Huntington, a distinguished member of the Company it represented the Charter was House of Commons, startled his immediate eventually issued. auditory, as well as the whole political In previous despatches I have already world of Canada, by the unexpected intro-

j described to your Lordship the precautions duction of the following motion : | which were taken to prevent any American ' " Hon. Mr. Huntington moved, that Mr. interest or foreign capital ever obtaining Huntington, a member of the House, having

j control over the concern. I am not suffi- stated in his place, that he is credibly in- | ciently conversant with railway financing to formed and believes that he can establish by

j assert, on my own authority, that the re- satisfactory evidence, strictions introduced into the Charter, with " That, in anticipation of the legislation this view, are sufficient for their purpose. of last session, as to the Pacific Railway, an Money, like water, has a very narrow agreement was made between Sir Hugh shculder, and will find its way wher- Allan, acting for himself, and certain other ever it is likely to fructify, — but Canadian promoters, and G. W. McMullen, as far as I can iudge, every reasonable pre- acting for certain United States capitalists, — —— — "

28 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873 whereby the latter agreed to furnish all the liamentary strength—which I imagine was funds necessary for the construction of the put forward by way of protest against Mr. contemplated Railway, and to give the for- Huntington's appeal to his own mere ipse mer a certain percentage of interest, in con- dixit—my Government felt that the matter sideration of their interest and position, the could not thus be disposed of, and accord- scheme agreed on being ostensibly that of a ingly the next day Sir John Macdonald gave Canadian Company Mith Sir Hugh Allan at notice of the following motion, which was its head, carried on the ensuing Tuesday, April i "That the Government was aware that 8th :— negotiations were pending between these " On motion of the Right Hon. Sir John parties, A. Macdonald, that a select Committee of "That subsequently, an understanding five members (of which Committee the mover was come to between the Government and shall not be one) be appointed by this House Sir Hugh Allan and Mr. Abbott, M.R, to enquire into and report upon the several that Sir Hugh Allan and his friends should matters contained and stated in a resolution advance a large sum of money for the pur- moved on Wednesday, the 2nd April, in- pose of aiding the elections of Ministers and stant, by the Hon. Mr. Huntington, member their supporters at the ensuing general for the County of Shefford, relating to the election, and that he and his friends should Canadian Pacific Railway, with power to

receive the contract for the construction of send for persons, papers and records : to re- the Railway, port from time to time, and to report the " That accordingly Sir Hugh Allan did evidence from time to time, and if need be advance a large sum of money for the pur- to sit after the prorogation of Parliament. pose mentioned, and at the solicitation The members to compose the Committee and under the pressing instances of Minis- were then named by the House as follows ters, Hon. Mr. Blanchet, Mr. Blake, and Hon. " That part of the moneys expended by Messrs Dorion (Napierville) Macdonald (Pic- Sir Hugh Allan in connection with the ob- tou) and Cameron (Cardwell). taining of the Act of Incorporation and Of the five above mentioned gentlemen, Charter were paid to him by the said United three—viz., Mr. Cameron, Mr. Macdonald, States capitalists under the agreement with and Mr. Blanchet—may be regarded as regu- him, —it is lar supporters of the Administration, and " Ordered, That a Committee of seven two—Mr. Blake and Mr. Dorion—as leading members be appointed to enquire into all members of the Opposition. the circumstances connected with the nego- On the debate which took place on tiations for the construction of the Pacific this motion, I am informed by my Prime Railway, —with the legislation of last ses- Minister, —and here I must remind your sion on subject, and with the granting of the Lordship that I have no other means of

Charter to Sir Hugh Allan and others ; with acquainting myself with what takes place in power to send for persons, papers and re- the House, as I am precluded from being

cords ; and with instructions to report in present at its proceedings, and the newspa- full the evidence taken before, and all pro- per reports are quite untrustworthy— that ceedings of said Committee"—which was Mr. Mackenzie, the leader of the Opposition, negatived. as well as Mr. Blake, Mr. Dorion and Mr. As I have already remarked in a previous Joly, eminent members of the same party, despatch, No. 116, May 3rd, the charge thus expressed themselves of opinion that the evi- brought against my Government was very dence tendered should be on oath, and the grave, viz. : —that they had trafficed with former gentleman further suggested, it being foreigners in Canada's most precious inter- doubtful whether the Committee could sit rests in order to debauch the constituencies after the House was once prorogued, that a of the Dominion with the gold obtained as Bill should be introduced expressly enabling these price of their treachery. In making it to do so. I shall have occasion subse the allegations, however, Mr. Huntington quently to refer to this latter circumstance. did not enforce them by any confirmatory As the necessity for sworn testimony in re- statement or by the production of any prima spect of such grave charges was generally facie proofs of their validity. He merely obvious, an Oaths Bill was introduced into1 read his motion and sat down. Neither Sir the House of Commons on the 18th April, John Macdonald nor any of his colleagues was passed through the Senate on the 29th, having risen to address the House, a divi- and received the Royal Assent on the 3rd sion was taken without debate, which re- May. The time occupied in getting this sulted in a majority of 31 for Government measure through Parliament was pronounced in a Heuse of 183. unnecessarily long by many members of the Notwithstaading this di«play of their Par- Opposition. —

1873 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 29

Into the motives which induced me to facts of the case so far as I am cognizant of sanction the Oaths Bill, and into its subse- them. Early in May—I forget the exact quent history, I need not enter, as the former date—Sir John Macdonald waited upon me are stated in my despatch of the 3rd May in my office, and having communicated to (No. 116), and the latter is recorded in your me the arrangements contemplated for the Lordship's communication of June 30th (No. convenience of the Committee, informed me that that 198) ; but I may observe in passing, he wished to take my pleasure as to amongst other respects in which my conduct the date of prorogation, mentioning the 13th has been criticised, the fact of my having August as the one he desired to suggest. communicated to you by the first opportunity Having received my assent to this proposal, a certified copy of the Oaths Bill has been a he repaired to the House of Commons, and very general point of attack. I apprehend announced from his place, as leader of the it will not be necessary to justify myself to House and the person responsible for the your Lordship in this particular. My law conduct of public business, that Parliament adviser had called my attention to the possi- would be prorogued on the 13th August, bility of the Bill being illegal. Had perjured stating—as he affirms—in the most distinct testimony been tendered under it, no pro- terms, that the " re-assembly of Parliament ceedings could have been taken against the on that day would be -pro forma—that no delinquent, and if, under these circum- business would be done beyond the reception stances, I had wilfully withheld from the of the report of the Committee, which could Home Government all cognizance of the Act, then be printed with the evidence, and go it would have been a gross dereliction of before the country—that the members would duty. To those in this country who have not be required to return, and that only the questioned my procedure it would be suffi- Speakers of the two Houses need be in their cient to reply, that I recsgnize no authority places." The only observation elicited by on this side of the Atlantic competent to in- this announcement proceeded from Mr. Hoi- struct the Governor-General as to the nature ton, an Opposition member, who remarked of his correspondence with Her Majesty's " that to do any business there must be a Secretary of State. quorum, and that he and a quorum would be In the meantime the Committee had met, there," to which Sir John informs me he re- and on the 5th May had resolved, amongst plied that "if a quorum was necessary a suf- other things, " That in view of the absence ficient number of members would be found in " of Sir George Cartier and the Hon. J. J. C. the neighbourhood of Ottawa —a quorum Abbott, and the impossibility of the investi- consisting of the Speaker and nineteen others. gation with which the Committee is charged It was upon this understanding, Sir John as- being carried on in a proper manner without sures me, that the House consented to ad- an opportunity being afforded these gentle- journ, and in confirmation of his assertion he men of being present and hearing the testi- has communicated to me the subjoined letter mony adduced, it was advisable the Com- from Mr. Palmer, the member for St. mittee should adjourn until Wednesday, the John — 2nd day of July, if Parliament should be " St. John, August 11, 1873. " then in session — a conclusion which appears " Sir John Macdonald, Minister of Justice, to have been arrived at in the Committee by Ottawa. a majority of three to two. On the follow- " Sir, —In consequence of statements that ing day these recommendations were adopted I understand have come from some members by the House of Commons, on a vote of' 107 of the Commons, to the effect that there to 76. might be an actual session of Parliament at The ordinary business of the session being the adjournment on the 13th, to you, .as the now nearly concluded, and it having been leader of the Government, I beg to make the

admitted, I understand, by all parties, that following statement by way of protest : the Committee could not sit after proroga- "I have to remind you that the House of tion, it was arranged that the House should Commons only consented to adjourn to that adjourn to such a day beyoud the 2nd July time on your pledge openly given in the as would enable the Committee to complete House that no business should be transacted, the investigation and to frame their report. nor would the attendance of members be re- The date eventually determined on was the quired, as there would be enough around

13th August, which was also settled as the Ottawa to make a quorum ; that Mr. Speaker day on which Parliament was to be pro- would receive the report of the Committee on rogued. the Huntington charges, so that it might be As the nature of the understanding at the published, and that then Parliament would time in respect of this latter event has been be at once prorogued.

' warmly controverted, it is necessary that 1 ' If this promise had not been made, I do should here acquaint your Lordship with the not believe the House would have consented :

30 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873

to any such adjournment. I certainly would sit, "if need were, after prorogation," and not have given my consent to any adjourn- more than one member of the Opposition ment that would have put the country to an urged the propriety of a Bill being introduced expense of a quarter of a million dollars by to enable it to do so. Clearly, therefore, bringing the Legislature together again. when this motion was carried and these sug- " At all events, be that as it may, I feel gestions made, the majority who passed the that it would be dishonourable for myself to one and the individuals who proposed the attempt to do business at an adjournment of other must have contemplated the probability the House at which my colleagues had been of the report of the Committee being con- told that no business would be done, and sidered not in the present, but in a subse- that they need* not attend, and theref jre I quent session of Parliament. Indeed, the

must decline to do so ; and I protest at any mere fact of prorogation being fixed for the attempt to do business, and I require the 13th August implies this much, for it is not Government to fulfil the pledge made to me to be presumed that the House would have and to every member of the House, that proceeded to consider the report until both Parliament would be at once prorogued. it and the evidence upon which it was " While I do this, I do not wish to inter- founded had been printed and distributed to fere in any way with the right of the Govern- members—but to enable this to be done an ment to call Parliament together whenever interval of a few days, after Parliament had they think the exigencies of the case require re-assembled and had received the report, it ; they must be the judges of that, and be would manifestly have been required before responsible for it ; but let that be done in the action could have been taken upon it. If, usual way, that all may understand that it is therefore, Parliament had contemplated con- their duty to attend ; and when I, together sidering the report during the current ses- witli all my colleagues, am so called upon, I sion, it would have desired a later day to be trust that I shall be found in my place, and fixed for prorogation than that on which the I shall then feel that whether or not all my mere manuscript copy of the report was to colleagues attend, they will not have been be laid on its table. kept away by a pledge that they would not Again, when Mr. Dorion moved an amend- be required, and I could therefore honourably ment of the motion for the Committee's join in doing anything that the House might adjournment to the 2nd July, that, "inas- consider for the interests of the country. much a3 the Committee will have no po wet- " I have the honour to be, &c, either to enforce the attendance of witnesses "A. L. Palmer, or to compel them to give testimony without " Member for the City and County of St. the action of this House, it is essential to the John." proper conduct of the investigation that it As far as my opinion is concerned, I am should be prosecuted under circumstances quite clear that is was the desire and expec- that will admit of the prompt exercise of the tation of Parliament that prorogation should authority of the House, it is therefore neces- take place at the time mentioned. Every sary that the House should sit on the day to member must have known that Sir John's which the Committee has leave to adjourn," announcement on the subject was an intima- the House decided against him by a majority tion of the pleasure of the Crown through its of 101 to 66—oue of the representatives from official organ in the House, and that the British Columbia, as I am informed, protest- Prime Minister could only have made it after ing against members from the more distant receiving my authority to do so. Formerly, Provinces in the Dominion being required to the intentions of the Sovereign on this sub- return to Ottawa so late in the summer as ject were conveyed to either Chamber by a the 2nd July. written message; but though a verbal com- But the intention of the House is still fur- munication through the First Minister has ther exhibited by the following circumstance been now substituted, it does not render this during the session a Bill was passed increas- latter mode of communication less formal or ing the indemnity paid in this country to official. Had, therefore, the House of Com- members of Parliament for their attendance. mons desired to prolong the session beyond Into that Bill a clause— was introduced to the the 13th August, its proper course would following effect : "The said amendments have been to have communicated its wishes shall apply to the present session of Parlia- to me by an address. Though the fact that ment, and if either House shall adjourn for no motion to this effect was even suggested is more than thirty days such adjournment sufficiently conclusive, there are other cir- shall, for the purposes of such Act, be equiva- cumstances which indicate, more or less dis- lent to a prorogation. This provision was tinctly, the feeling of the House. The mo- intended by its authors to enable members tion originally appointing the Committee, to receive their salaries and travelling expen- and carried on the 8th April, ordered it to ses on the 23rd May, the day on which Par. —

1873 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 31 liament adjourned, without having to wait have passed unchallehged, but should have for the 13th August, the day named for pro- resorted to every means known to the Con- rogation. I may also mention that the same stitution by which such a consummation in to could have been precluded. day i e . j0n the 23rd May—I came State Indeed, so ob- the Senate Chamber to give my assent to the vious was theii duty in this respect, that

Bills of the session ; and in view of a Pro- their opponents have attributed to them a gress I intended to make through the Mari- deliberate intention of allowing the disper- time Provinces during the summer, I pro- sion of the majority to take place sub silentio, vided, before leaving Ottawa, for the proro- with a view to the packing of a House with gation of Parliament by commission, in order their own adherents on the day to which it to spare myself the labour and fatigue of a had adjourned—an operation to them excep- journey of 2,400 miles for what I understood tionally easy, as the parliamentary strength would be a mere formality. of the Ministers lies principally in the Mari- From the foregoing narrative youi Lord- time and outlying Provinces, while their own ship will probably agree with me in the con- is close at home in the central region of On- clusion that up to the time when the Houses tario and Quebec. The subsequent publica- adjourned, it was clearly the wish and the tion in the newspapers of the documents now expectation of Parliament that prorogation known as the Allan and McMullen corres- should take place on the 13th August. And pondence is pointed to as having been a it is most natural that this should have been move in aid of the same unworthy policy, by the case. The commercial business and the supplying a sudden and unexpected pretext agricultural operations of the year have to for insisting on the immediate intervention be crowded into the five short months of of Parliment at a time when the Ministerial summer. Almost every member of both supporters were dispersed. Houses in this country is actively engaged I do not, however, myself attach the in business pursuits requiring his personal slightest credit to this injurious insiunation. attendance. To be detained from home at Although, undoubtedly, party strife is con- this season implies not only extreme incon- ducted in this country with less reticence and venience but pecuniary loss. Already the generosity than at home, and although the lateness of the current session had bred con- combatants " strike below the waistcoat" siderable discontent, and it had been ex- more frequently than could be wished, my pressly determined by the House that in personal knowledge of the leaders of the Op- future the session should never begin later position convinces me that such a design than the first week of February. The dis- would, be quite foreign to their natures. My tance from Halifax to Ottawa is something own opinion is, that, from first to last, they like 1,200 miles, from Victoria in British found themselves impeded by the initial mis- Columbia it is 4,00t)miles. The re-assembly take in tactics—as I ventured at the time of Parliament in August, for the transaction to consider it—committed by Mr. Huntington of business, would have cut up the entire in not reinforcing his motion by the produc- summer, as far as many members were con- tion of some of the documents on which it cerned, and would have been more or less was founded. Had he done so, Parliament inconvenient to all but those who reside would undoubtedly have listened to him with within a day or two's journey of Ottawa. greater respect, and Mr. Dorion's motion

The majority in the House of Commons ap- might perhaps have been carried ; for, though pear to have attached but little significance Mr. Huntington's case is far from being to Mr. Huntington's accusations, for they proved, no one can now deny that, if he was negatived his motion without even requiring in possession of the Allan correspondence at my Ministers to reply to it, and I do not the time'he demanded his committee, he had imagine that any one of them contemplated aright to require an investigation of the a renewal of the session on the 13th August. suspicious circumstances thus brought to his But, though the conduct of the majority knowledge. The premature disclosure of who confided in the Government is easily his hand could not have been the objection, understood, the procedure of the members of for a sufficiency of " pieces justificatives" for the Opposition is more difficult to explain. his purpose have since been produced. As They had in their possession, it is to be pre- it was, he could not convince the house of sumed, what they considered convincing the urgency of the affair, and, discouraged proofs ot the corruption of Minis- by their repeated defeats, the Opposition, I ters. The matter had been refer- imagine, gave up all hopes of being able to red to the adjudication of a committee, persuade Parliament to dispute the arrange- and, according to the theory of the prosecu- ments of the triumphant Minister. Be that tion, could have but one result. Strong in as it may, it is certain that the day after the these convictions, they should never have al- adjournment most of the members of both lowed the announcement of prorogation to Houses dispersed themselves in different di. — — —

32 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873

rections, some to their homes, some to the made by me on the part of the Government States, and some to Europe, without any on the floor of the House of Commons, to more intention »>f returning to Ottawa on issue a Royal Commission addressed to the the 13th August than myself. gentlemen forming the Committee which On the 2nd July Mr. Cameron's committee would confer upon them all the powers given met in Montreal, but in the meantime I had to the Committee by the House of Commons, received an intimation from your Lordship including the examination of witnesses un- that the Oaths Bill had been disallowed by der oath, and the power to send for persons, the Queen in Council, and I had made the papers and records, and containing the same fact public by proclamation. provisions as to the votes of|the members of the lin mediately on leceipt of this intelligence, Committee and yourself as Chairman, as was communications hadjpassed between Sir John ordered by the House. The acceptance of Macdonald and myself as to the course to this Commission will enable this Committee be pm sued. Sir John was inclined to issue to proceed with the enquiry, and the exami- a Commission to the members of the Com- nation of witncses on oath without any im- mittee, but, as he hesitated to do so from an portant delay. I shall cause a copy of unwillingness to expose the Crown to the re- this letter to be sent to each member of the jection of its mandate, I addressed him in Committee. the following terms: " I have the honour to be, " The Citadel, Quebec, " Your obedient servant, June 28th. 1873. "J. A. Macdonald. " I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your "To Hon. J. H. Cameron, &c, &c. letter of the 19th. I am sure you are quite "P.S. —The Commission will contain a right not to allow the Committee to be post- clause enjoining the Commissioners to report poned beyond the time originally fixed for to the Speaker of the House of Commons. the opening of its proceedings. (Signed,) "J. A. Macdonald." "On the part of the Crown, I should have no The majority of the Committee"are under objection to the offer of the Commission as you stood to have been willing to retut propose, and I think you may with perfect a favourable reply to. this proposal, ha propriety act upon the assumption that the their colleagues assented, but neither Mr. members of the Committee will accept the Dorion nor Mr. Blake considered them- charge confided to them. selves at liberty to accept the arrangement, •'The Government has stretched its legal and stated their reasons in the following

conscience and encouraged Parliament, though terms : not without warning, to exceed its legitimate " To the Bight Honourable Sir John A. Mac- powers in order to facilitate this enquiry. donald. m The obstacle now interposed is one with " Sir, —I have the honour to acknowledge •h you have no concern, and beyond your the receipt of your letter of the 2nd inst., control. You propose to obviate the diffi- received this morning, enclosing a copy of a culty by the only means in your power—but letter addressed by you to the Hon. J. H. a means both legitimate and effectual. No Cameron, Chairman of the Special Commit- one can doubt that for the purpose for which tee of the House of Commons, now sitting the Committee was originally constituted, its in Montreal, in which you state that, as the conversion into a Commission can make no Act which would have enabled the Commit- practical difference. 4s a Commission it will tee to examine witnesses under oath had take evidence, and as a Committee it will re- been disallowed, as being beyond the com- port upon that evidence to the House. It petence of the Canadian Parliament, you would be unreasonable to allege that in dis- desire to renew to him, as Chairman of the charging this double function, and in acquir- Committee, the offer made by you on the ing, in addition to the powers delegated to it part of the Government to issue a Royal by Parliament, a technical authority at the Commission, addressed to the gentlemen hands of the Crown to take evidence on forming the Committee, which would confer oath, it abates one tittle of its constitutional upon them all the power given to the Com- independence." mittee by the House of Commons, including Tii us authorized, Sir John communicated the examination of the witnesses by the

with Mr. Cameron in the following letter : Committee ; but, as I understand your pro- " Montreal,' July 2nd, 1873. posal, it is that the Government should give "SIR, —As the Act which would have to the several members of the Committee enabled the Committee now sitting in Mon- named by the House of Commons to enquire treal, of which you are Chairman, to ex- into the charges made against it a Commis- amine witnesses on oath, has been disallowed sion to enquire into the same charges, with as being beyondy the competence of the power to examine witnesses under oath, and Canadian Parliament, I desire to renew to this with a view to carry out the intention you as Chairman of the Committee the offer of the House, to have this enquiry made un- 1873 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 3

der oath. Now, I would beg to call to your form what the Commission would impose on attention that the Committte was originally me. named on your own motion, as an ordinary "I have the honour, &c, Parliamentary Committee, without refe- (Signed) " A. A. Dorion." rence to any authority to examine witnesses under oath, and that it was only on the " Montreal, July 3. suggestion of the Committee, subsequently " Sir, — I have the honour to acknowledge made, that the House and Senate unani- the receipt of your letter of the 2nd iust., en- mously passed the Oaths Bill, although on closing a copy of a letter addressed by you to more than one occasion you yourself made the Hon. Mr. Cameron, as Chairman of the the suggestion, unheeded by the House, that Pacific Railway Enquiry Committee. I can- a Commission might be issued instead of not agree in your statement that the accep- passing an Act to authorize the administer- tance of a Royal Commission would enable ing of oaths to the witnesses. This alone the Committee to proceed with the euquiry seems to me* to be conclusive that the House and the examination of witnesses on oath. of Commons, whose nominee I am on the The Committee is, I believe, unanimously oi Committee, did not intend that the enquiry opinion that the acceptance of the Com should be carried on by a Commission ap- mission would not enable the Committee pointed by the Executive, and responsible make progress, and that the action of th as such only to that Executive. It seems to Commissioners (whether or not they be the me, moreover, that the authority which is same persons as those who constitute the sought to be conferred on the Committee to Committee) would be entirely disconnected examine witnesses under oath cannot be at- from the action of the Committee. Sharing

tained by the issue of a Royal Commission ; their opinion, I am called on to consider for, although the Commissioners appointed whether I should accept the offer made by might examine witnesses under oath, it the Government, of a Royal Commission would not be as members of the Committee addressed to the gentlemen who happen to appointed bv the House that they would do be members of the Committee, calling on so, but as Commissioners, whose decisions them to enquire into the matters of charge and proceedings would be subject to the preferred in the statement of Mr. Hunting- supervision and control of the Executive, ton, I believe that it would be of evil under whom they wculd hold their appoint- consequence to create the precedent of a ment, and not of the House. I have always Government issuing a Commission of en- been willing, as a member of the House of quiry into matters of a charge against itself, Commons, to obey its commands in refe- the Commissioners being, as they are, sub- rence to any Parliamentary duties it might ject to the direction and control of the ac-

impose upon me ; in that view I did not cused. I believe that the acceptance of shirk the arduous and unenviable position of such a Commission would be opposed to the a member of this Committee of Enquiry, as sense of the House of Commons, as mani- being part of the labour and duty to which a fested by its action last session, and would,

member of Parliament is bound to submit ; under present sircumstances, be calculated but if, instead of moving for the appoint- to prejudice the enquiry ordered by the ment of a Committee by the House, the Gov- House, and to impair the full and efficient ernment had proposed to name me on a Com- exercise of its most ancient and important mission for the purpose of this enquiry, I powers. The House of Commons does not, would then certainly have declined the pro- I think, expect that the Crown or any one posed Commission. I cannot see why I else, least of all the members of its own should now accept it, when it seems to me Committee, will interpose between itself and that the effect of issuing such a Commission the great enquiry which it has undertaken. would be to supersede the Committee, and Apart from these and other difficulties, you more especially in view of the declaration have yourself interposed a barrier to my you made immediately before the adjourn- acceptance of your offer. During my ab- ment of the session in reference to Mr. Blake sence from the House of Commons last ses- and myself, that we should not have con- sion, you stated in your place that I had sented to serve on the Committee, that men done wrong in not declining to fulfil the i in our positions in England would not have dutj' of Committeeman, which had been im-

done so, and that you could not expect any posed on me by the House ; that English fair play at our hands. This alone should be statesmen in my position—which, however, a sufficient reason why I humbly believe I you misstated—would have scorned to do aa

should not be called upon to accept a Com- I had done ; and that my speeches during the mission from the Government of which you session showed that your Government could are the head, after your public declaration, not expect fair play from me on the enquiry. made in my absence, of my unfitness to per- I shall not condescend to reply to these 34 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873 statements, but I have to say that although Sir John Macdonald's telegram, quoted in that I the affidavit, satisfactorily proved that, so I reluctantly came to the conclusion — was not free to decline to serve the House far from yielding himself, or allowing his think it colleague, Sir George Cartier, to yield to of which I am a member, I do not the consistent with my self-respect to accept the pressure put upon him by Sir Hugh Allan in Commission here offered by a Minister who the height of the election contest, my Prime has chosen to so characterize my conduct. I Minister had required the immediate and have sent a copy of this letter to Mr. complete cancelling of an arrangement favour- Cameron for his information as Chairman of able to Sir Hugh, to which Sir George the Committee. had evinced a willingness to subscribe. In "I have, &c, illustration of this point, I subjoin Sir (Signed) "Edward Blake. George Carrier's letter, as well as Sir Hugh "The Right Hon. Sir John A. Macdonald." Allan's reference to Sir John Macdonald's concerning it. I do not presume to question for a moment telegram the propriety of the course adopted by these [Copy.] gentlemen. As members of the House of "Montreal, 30th July, 1872. Commons, they may have had a more acute "Dear Sir Hugh, — " appreciation of their Parliamentary obliga- I enclose you copies of telegrams received tions than had occurred to my apprehension,— from Sir John A. Macdonald; and with refe- con- rence to their contents I that, in but 1 trust that your Lordship will not would say my sider that 1 acted wrongly in thus endea- opinion, the Governor-in-Council will ap- vouring to forward the enquiry by what I prove of the amalgamation of your Company considered an opportune expedient. with the Interoceanic Company, under the The Committee being thus precluded from name of the Canadian Pacific Railway Com- swearing in their witnesses, a motion was pany, the P-ovincial Board of the amalga- made by Mr. Dorion, supported by Mr. mated Ccl pany to be composed of seven- Blake, that they should content themselves teen members, of whom four shall be named with unsworn testimony, but the majority from the Province of Quebec by the Canada considering themselves debarred from this Pacific Railway Campany, four from the course by the express instructions of the Province of Ontario by the Interoceanic House upon the point, they determined to Railway Company, and the remainder by the the adjourn until the 13th August. Government ; amalgamated Company to This resolution was taken on the 3rd July. have the powers specified in the 10th sec- The day after there appeared in the Mon- tion of the Act incorporating the Canada treal Herald a series of letters and telegrams Pacific Railway Company, &c. ; the agree- written by Sir Hugh Allan to a Mr. Mc- ment of amalgamation to be executed be- Mullen, and to a Mr. Smith, of Chicago, and tween the companies within two months to some unknown person in the United from this date. " States, in reference to the Canadian Pacific The Canada Pacific Company might take Railway. The day following a long state- the initiative in procuring the amalgamation; ment on the same subject, in the form of an and if the Interoceanic Company should not affidavit, was issued by Sir Hugh Allan in execute an agreement of amalgamation upon I have such terms and within such limited time, I _ T _ .„ , another newspaper. and JSo. 4. No. 3 already had the honour of think the contemplated arrangements should forwarding to your Lordship both the docu- be made with the Canada Pacific Company ments, but I think it well to append them to under its charter. " this despatch for convenience of reference. Upon the subscription and payment on of It is not necessary for my present purpose account stock being made, as required by that I should either analyze or contrast the Act of last session, respecting the Cana- the conliicting assertions observable in these dian Pacific Railway Company, I have no productions. It will be sufficient to note doubt but that the Governor-in-Council will that not only does Sir Hugh Allan admit upon agree with the Company for the construc- oath that the language of his letters is "in- tion and working of the Canadian Pacific accurate," but he also denies in the most Railway with such branches as shall be positive manner the correctness of the in- agreed upon, and will grant to the Company ferences sought to be deduced from them. all such subsidies and assistance as they are On the whole, as far as I could gather from empowered to do by the Government Act. I the tone of the press, and from conversation, believe all the advantages which the Gov- these revelations rather improved than other- ernment Act empowers the Government to wise the position of the Ministry. On the confer upon any Company will be required to one hand, Sir Hugh Allan's letters accounted enable the works contemplated to be suc- for and justified Mr. Huntington's perti- cessfully carried through, and I am convinced nacity; on the other, his affidavit, —or rather, that they will be accorded to the Company — — ) — '

1873 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 35

to be formed by amalgamation, or to the " Toronto, Aug. 26ch, 1872. be. Canada Pacific Company, as the case may " To the Hon. J. J. C. Abbott, St " that, as I approve of the I would add Anne's :

measures to which I have referred in this ' ' (Immediate, Private. letter, I shall use my best endeavours to " I must have another ten have them carried into effect. thousand ; will be the last time of calling "Very truly yours, ; do not fail me, (Signed) "Geo. E. Cartier." answer to-day. " John A. Macdonald." Extract J rom Sir H. Allan's Affidavit oj July 5th. But for the appearance of the foregoing "On the same day that I reeceived the documents, I doubt whether so great an im- above letter from Sir George Cartier I in- pression would have been produced upon the formed Sir John A. Macdonah' of the con- public mind by the statement of Mi - Mo ents of it, and asked for his sanction of the Mullen. I myself have no knowledge oi the views which it contained. Put; he declined gentleman, and have no right to impeach his to concur in the terms of Sir ureorge's letter, veracity, but it is manifest that many of his telegraphing to him that he would not agree assertions are at variance with Sir Hugh to them, and that he would come down to Allan's sworn testimony, while others have Montreal and confer with him respecting been contradicted by gentlemen whose them. Thereupon, I immediately informed credibility it would be difficult to impugn. Sir George E. Cartier that I should consider Even with regard to the documents them- the letter addressed to me as being with- selves, it is to be observed that they were

drawn ; and to my knowledge Sir George neither addressed to Mr. McMullen nor to telegraphed Sir John that he had seen me, any one with whom he was associated, and and that as he (Sir John) objected to Sir that they could scarcely have come into his George's letter, it had been withdrawn. I possession by other than surreptitious means. also telegraphed to Sir John on the same They do not therefore necessarily connect day (July 31st) to the effect that I had seen themselves with those nefarious transactions Sir George Cartier, and that he (Sir John) to which Mr. McMullen asserts he was might return my letter or regard it as waste privy. It is further contended by the paper, and that I was satisfied with the friends of the Government that the sums telegram of the 26th as expressive of the mentioned or even referred to were not very views of the Government." large—about £12,000 sterling in all—an am- But any reaction in favour of the Govern- ount which would go but a little way to defray ment which might have thus set in was more the legitimate expenses of the 150 Ontario than counterbalanced by the appearance of and Quebec elections, and that there was another series of letters, which I also re- nothing to show whether they had been append, and which are now gene- proffered as a subscription or fq e as a temporary ' rally known as the McMullen cor- loan from a wealthy political partizan. Their respondence. Amid these productions there sinister significance resulted in a great have been introduced documents of a very measure from their factitious juxtaposition compromising character, the one a letter with Mr. McMullen's narrative. Under from Sir George Cartier asking for twenty these circumstances, though without attach- thousand more dollars ($20, 000 =£4, 000 ing too much importance to mere conjectural sterling), and the other a telegram from Sir pleas of this kind, I was unwilling to jump John Macdonald demanding an additional to a hasty conclusion on a matter involving ten thousand dollars ($1 0,000 =£2, 000 sterl- both the private and the public honour of ing). These latter I subjoin : my Ministers, and above all things I felt " Montreal, Aug. 24, 1872. bound not to allow my judgment to be swayed by the current of popular suspicion " Dear Mr. Abbott, —In the absence of which this concatenation of documents Sir Hugh Allan, I shall be obliged by your would naturally produce. supplying the Central Committee with a fur- I happened to be at Prince Edward Island ther sum of twenty thousand dollars upon when the McMullen correspondence the same conditions as the amount written reached my hands, whither two of my Ministers by me at the foot of my letter to Sir Hugh Mr. Tilley, the Minister of Finance, and Dr. Allan of the 30th uuimc Tupper, the Minister of Customs—had afco " George E. Cartier. come for the purpose of settling certain de- " P. S. —Please also send Sir John A. tails consequent on the recent confederation Macdonald ten thousand dollars more on the of the Island. I immediately sent for these same terms." gentlemen, and the strenuous assurances I re- ceived from each of them confirmed my hope —

36 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873

that matters might be satisfactorily explain- impartiality towards the various parties ed. But, however that might be, I knew into which the political world of Canada as that our original programme for the indeti- well as the Mother Country is divided, but nifle prorogation of Parliament could no still more of preserving that more subtle and longer be adhered to, aud that my presence inward balance of sympathy, judgment, and at Ottawa on the 13th August was imperative. opiuiou which should elevate the representa- Understanding, however, that preparations tive of your Sovereign above faintest suspi- were in progress for our public reception at cion of having any other desire, aim, or am- Halifax. I thought it better to proceed bition than to follow the example of his thither, and to make no aunnouncement of Royal Mistress in the relation she has con- my subsequent intentions until the last mo- stantly maintained towards her Ministers, ment. At the same time I wrote to Sir her Parliament, and her people (tremendous John, and intimated to him that the posi- applause); to remember every hour of the tion of affairs had changed since we parted day that he has but one duty and but one that a recess for the usual period was no object—to administer his Government in longer possible, and that it was necessary the interests of the whole Canadian people, Parliament should be provided with as early and of the Dominion at large. (Great cheer-

an opportunity as circumstances permitted ing. ) Of course, gentlemen, having been of pronouncing upon the points at issue be- but one brief year in the country, my charac- tween himself and his assailants. ter and my sentiments in these respects can On reaching Halifax, on the 29th July, I scarcely be known, and there is always a found the popular excitement all over the danger during the fervour of these political Oominion was intense, and that my supposed controversies, which seem to be conducted views, sympathies and intentions were by the press of Canada with peculiar liveli- becoming not merely the subject of conjec- ness aud animation— (great laughter)—of ture, but of assertion and comment in the unauthorized references being made to the rival newspapers—the Government press Governor-General's supposed sentiments, stating, as if upon authority, that my opinions, and intentions, which would con- course would be so and so—announcements vey to the uninstructed reader a very erro- which were met by the Opposition prints neous impression of the conduct and the atti- with strong admonitory or rather minatory tude of the Chief of the State. Gentlement articles. As, at this time, I had by no I do not make this remark by way of com- means made up my mind as to the proper plaint. If there is aay person in Canada who course to be pursued, and felt that no deci- has been kindly and considerately dealt with sion was possible until I had seen my Minis- by the press, to whom the press of every ters, I determined to take an early opportu- political complexion has shown indulgence nity of deprecating the introduction of the aud goodwill, it is myself, and it is most Governor General's name into such a contro- natural and by no means an uncomplimen- versy. An occasion soon presented itself, tary circumstance, that trie organs of differ- and I have the honour to subjoin an extract ent shades of opinion should persuade them- from a newspaper report of a speech I made selves that the Governor-General must at a dinner given to me by the Halifax necessarily be of their way of thinking, and Club :— see through their spectacles. (Laughter.) * * * " And here, But what I wish to say once for all, and I do gentlemen, I should be disposed to conclude not care how widely this remark is dissemi- this imperfect expression of my thanks, nated, is this—that there is no human being were I not desirous of conveying to my who is authorized to make any statement or friend the Chief ^ Justice the great gratifica- suggestion as to what my opiuiou or senti- tion I have derived from the remarks which ments may be in respect of any political topic, have dropped from him in regard to my or who has ever been in a position, or is official position as Governor-General of this likely to be in a position, to make anything great Dominion. Gentlemen, I am well approaching to a conjecture upon points of aware that this is, as it were, a domestic this description. It is true, my object and festival, and that nothing could be more in- my desire is to inform my mind upon every opportune than the slightest allusion to any subject affecting the interests of the country, political topic; but I maybe permitted to say by conversation and by discussion with any this much in reference to what has fallen one who can afford me instruction or infor-

from the Chief Justice, that, if there mation ; and it would be very unfortunate is one obligation whose importance I ap- for me if this freedom of intercourse with all preciate more than another, as attaching classes and parties in Canada, from which I to the functions of my office, it is .the ab- derive so much benefit and pleasure, should solute and paramount duty of maintaining be trammelled by the dread lest this casual not merely an outward attitude of perfect intercourse should become the foundation of —) —

1873 EARL OF DUFFERIN.

inference, comment, and conjecture iu the under these circumstances, he must console press. No, gentlemen, 1 understand my himself with the reflection that these spas- duty too well to allow my judgment or my modic castigations— (laughter) —are as transi- sympathies to be surprised into political par- tory and innocuous—(great laughter)—as the tizanship. My one thought and desire is the discipline applied occasionally to their idols welfare of Canada as a whole. To maintain by the unsophisticated worshippers of Mum- her honour, to promote her prosperity, to do bo Jumbo—(immense laughter)—when then- my duty by her and her entire people, is the harvests are short or a murrain visits their sole object of my ambition. When I con- flocks. (Cheers.) For, gentlemen, of this I

verse with your public men, it scarcely ever am certain : although he may sometimes err occurs to me to remember to what political in his judgment, or fail in serving you as party they belong. I only see in them per- effectually as he might desire, a Viceroy who sons devoting themselves, each according to honestly seeks to do his duty—(cheers)—to his lights, to the service of his country. My whom the interests of Canada are as precious only guiding star in the conduct and mainte- and her honour as dear as his own—im- nance of my official relations with your pub- mense cheering)—who steers unmoved an lic men is the Parliament of Canada. even course, indifferent to praise or blame,

(Cheeks. ) In fact, I suppose I am the only between the political contentions of the day person in the Dominion whose faith in the — (cheers) —can never appeal in vain to the wisdom and the infallibility of Parliament is con6dence and generosity of the Canadian

never shaken. (Great laughter. ) Each of people. (Immense applause.)" you, gentlemen, only believe in Parliament But though keeping my final decision in so long as Parliament acts according to your suspense, my mind was much occupied, as wishes—(cheers and laughter) —and convic- your Lordship may imagine, with the con- tions. I, gentlemen, believe in Parliament sideration of the various courses open to me. no matter which way it votes—(laughter) On one point I was quite clear—namely, that and to those men alone whom the deliberate it would not be right for me to countenance will of the confederated Parliament ef the the settlement of the serious issues raised Dominion may assign to me as my respon- between my Ministers and their opponents sible advisers can I give my confidence. involving, as they did, the personal honour (Cheers.) Whether they are the heads of of the most eminent men in Canada, the fate this party or of that party must be a matter of my Ministry, and the public credit of the of indifference to the Governor- General. country —except at the hands of a full Par-

(Cheers. ) So long as they are maintained by liament, in which the distant Provinces of Parliament in their position, so long is he the Dominion were as well represented as bound to give them his unreserved confi- those of Ontario and Quebec. dence, to defer to their advice, and loyally As I have already described to your Lord- to assist them with his counsels. (Applause. ship in the earlier part of this despatch, Whenever, in the vicissitudes of party war- before Parliament adjourned on the 23rd fare, they are replaced by others—(laughter) May, I had caused it to be announced to —he welcomes their successors with an both Houses that prorogation would take equally open and loyal regard. (Cheers.) place on the 13th August. This arrange- Such private friendships as he may have ment, I have no hesitation in say- formed he may have a right to retain. (Hear, ing, was agreeable to what were then hear.) As a reasonable being he cannot help the views of the majority both in the Senate having convictions upon the merits of differ- and in the House of Commons. On the faith ent policies— (hear) —but these considera- fo this pledgs, many gentlemen were gone to tions are abstract, speculative, and devoid so great a distance that it was physically of practical effect on his official relations. impossible for them to be recalled, and it so (Cheers.) As the head of a Constitutional happened, from causes to which I have State, as engaged in the administration of already referred, that by far the larger pro- Parliamentary Government, he has no politi- portion of these absentees were supporters cal friends ; still less need he have political of the Government. All the members from enemies. (Great cheering.) The possession, British Columbia, except Sir F. Hincks, or even to be suspected of possessing either, were on the wrong side of the Rocky Moun- destroys his usefulness. (Loud cheers.) tains. Some Ministerialists were in Europe, as Sometimes, of course, no matter how discon- I was informed, others in the States, and even nected he personally may be with what is to those in the Maritime Provinces, a return taking place, his name will get dragged into to Ottawa, though not physically impossible, some controversy, and he "may suddenly find as it was to their colleagues, would prove a himself the subject of hostile criticism by great inconvenience at such a season. On the press of whatever party may for the mo- the other hand, I learnt that the Opposition ment be out of power. (Laughter.) But, were mustering 38 THE SPEECHES OF THE. 1873

ation for which they possessed certain geo- the former, how the oath was to be adminis- graphical facilities. Were, therefore, the tered, —all of which would necessarily be House of Commons to meet for the transac- decided in a manner unduly adverse to the tion of public business, it was evident that Government, and in the absence of those important votes might be passed, and decis- who had an undoubted right to make their ions taken, contrary to the real sense of the voices heard on the occasion. I was so anx- country, and that my Ministers might justly ious, nevertheless, to find some way of complain that they were unfairly treated, avoiding a course which I foresaw would be and their fate determined by a packed denounced, however unjustly, as an undue Parliament. exercise of the Queen's prerogative, that I But, apart from these practical considera- thought it desirable to make a suggestion tions, a grave question of principle seemed in this sense to Sir John Macdonald, offering to me involved. The Imperial officer re- at the same time to become the channel of presenting the Crown in the Dominion is the communication by which an understanding natural protector of the federal rights of its between him and his opponents might be various Provinces, as secured under an Im- arrived at. Sir John's reply was very much perial Act. The sanctity of the rights of any in the sense I had anticipated. He insisted one of these Provinces is not affected by the upon the injustice of his Government being number of its representatives or the amount given over bound hand and foot to the tender of its population. In this view it is especi- mercies of their opponents in the absence of ally necessary that, in a country of such his supporters, whom he had dismissed to enormous distances, ample notice should be their homes with my sanction, and with the given of the times and seasons when Parlia- acquiescence of Parliament. He called my ment is to sit. But if it be once admitted attention to the fact that the Opposition that the official " fixtures " which regulate organs, far from hinting at any compromise, the opening or closing of a session and the were insisting on the fact that a quorum of conduct of public business, are to be caprici- Parliament could do anything that Parlia- ously tampered with, and changed at so ment itself could do, and were evincing by short a notice as to preclude the distant unmistakable signs that they would show

representatives from being present, it is no quarter ; that both Messrs. Blake and evident much wrong and inconvenience Dorion had endeavoured to persuade the would result, and the door be opened to a Committee to content themselves with un-

great deal of trickery at the hands of an un- sworn evidence ; and that if Parliament met scrupulous Minister. for business they would be in a position to The foregoing considerations pointed pass an instruction to the Committee to that pretty distinctly to prorogation as an inevi- effect, —that no man would be willing to risk table necessity of the situation. Only one his life/still less his honour, in the hands of other alternative indeed either suggested witnesses released from the consequences of itself then or has occurred to me since, and perjury, —and finally, that he would not feel that was another adjournment of the House himself safe in entering into any arrange- to such a date as would suit the convenience ments dependent upon the bona fides of those of the absentees. At first I confess this with whom I had suggested he should treat. course appeared to me fairly practicable, but Unfortunately, in this country party further reflection disclosed difficulties I had animosity is intense, and the organs of each not at once seen. In the first place, this was side denounce the public men opposed to an arrangement which I had not them in terms of far greater vigour than those the power of enforcing, and I was con- to which we are accustomed in England. fronted by the obvious leflection, that if the The quarrel at this moment is exceptionally Government made a motion to that effect, it bitter. The one party openly accuse the might be defeated or meet with an amend- other of personal dishonour, while these re- ment tantamount to a vote of want of confi- gard their opponents as unscrupulous con- dence at the hands of the majority in pre- spirators. As a consequence, a mistrust of sence, and I should then find myself landed each other's fair dealing, —which I cannot in the very position which I was quite satis- believe to be justified on either hand, —has fied ought to be avoided. Even if the been engendered, which would render the opponents of the Government were to refrain role of mediator under any circumstances from taking so unfair an advantage of their extremely difficult. As it was, the former numerical superiority, it was evident that in part of Sir John's representations, if not the view of the adjournment preliminary issues latter, coincided too closely with what had would crop up of vital importance . relative occurred to my own mind to enable me to to the fresh instructions to be given to the deny its cogency. There being, however,

Committee ; for instance, whether the evi- no further time for correspondence, I It ft dence was to be sworn or unsworn, and, if Halifax on Saturday night, the 9th August, —

1873 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 39

and arrived in Ottawa on the morning of " Mr. Blake moved that the said resolution Wednesday, the 13th. Had I been at liberty be rescinded, to have done so, I should have perferred " Yeas—Blake, Dorion. starting sooner, but xhe town of Halifax had "Nays—Cameron, Blanchet. organized a series of popular demonstrations " .Resolution lost. in our Honour for Saturday afternoon, and it " After sorre conversation as to the Com- would have occasioned great dissatisfaction mittee making a report to the House, had I absented myself. " The Chairman, said if Mr. Dorion and Before continuing my narrative, there is Mr. Blake were not in favour of making a one incident connected with my stay at report, and withdrew because they thought Halifax which perhaps ought to find mention no report should be made, the majority of here. Mr. Huntington sent me a sealed the Committee would not make any report. oacket covered by an official communication " Mr. Dorion said he wanted a report to be to my Secretary, which, as I understood made, but did not concur with the majority. from the gentleman who brought it, as well " The Chairman—All we propose to do is as from Mr. Huntington's letter, contained, simply to report our proceedings to the copies of the incriminatory documents in his House. If you don't like that report, we possession. As the matters to which the need not make any at all. papers referred had become the subject of a "Mr. Dorion—If I move any amendment, I public investigation before a House of Com- would stop the report from being made. mons Committee, and as I was still uncertain "The Chairman—It is impossible for me what turn affairs might take, I did not con- to tell the result of merely reporting our sider it would be proper for me to take per- proceedings to the House. But if you don't sonal cognizance of these papers. I there- think any report of our proceedings should fore returned the packet unopened to Mr. be made, I have no objection that it be so Huntington. resolved. My own impression is that as we The 13th August was not only the day reported all our former proceedings to the also re- appointed for prorogation, but it was House, there is no objection to our also the day to which the Committee of En- porting those which have taken place since quiry had adjourned, but, as far as I can the last meeting of the House. " gather from the subjoined report of what Mr. Dorion said he would not interfere occurred, it came together to very little pur- with such a step. " is so pose. Indeed its whole procedure on this The Chairman—Then I suppose it occasion is difficult of comprehension, in con- resolved, and we have completed our busi- sequence, I suppose, of the meagreness of ness? " the only report of what passed, which I have Mr. Blake—No, there is a quorum pre- order. I been able to obtain. In the first place, only sent, and any amendment is in four out of the five members were present, move that the House be asked to give such and eventually another, Mr. Dorion, with- instructions to the Committee as will enable drew in the middle of a discussion, leaving them to proceed with the enquiry. what are considered the Government mem- "Mr. Dorion here withdrew from the unani- bers in a majority. One of these, Mr. room, and the motion was carried Blanchet, then proposed that they should re- mously by Messrs. Cameron, Blanchet, and port their proceedings to the House. Mr. Blake. " Blake, in amendment of this suggestion, Mr. Blake enquired of the Chairman- moved the adjournment of the Committee, Do you propose to give the House communi- which was carried, —the result being that cation of this resolution ? ' it •when the House met at three o'clock, as had ' The Chairman—Not unless you move been arranged six weeks before, for the very to be done. " purpose of receiving the Committee's report, Mr. Blake—Do you propose to commu- no report of any sort or description was nicate any of the previous proceedings ? forthcoming. The following is the account "The Chairman—I do not. " of the proceedings referred to: Mr. Blanchet—I think we should report our proceedings. I move that the proceed- " Ottawa, Aug. 13. ings of the Committee since 17th of May last "The Pacific Committee met at 11:30. be reported to the House. Present: Messrs. Cameron, Blanchet, Blake, " Mr. Blake—I move an amendment that Dorion. the Committee adjourn till eleven o'clock to- "At the request of Mr. Blake, the resolu- morrow. tion passed by the Committee at last meet- " Carried. ing—that the Committee cannot proceed " Yeas—Blake, Cameron. without further instructions from the House " Nay—Blanchet. —was read. " The Committee then adjourned." 40 THE SPEECHES OF THE 187

A few hours after my arrival in Ottawa' an autumn and the usual session, that I con- Sir John Macdonalrl called upon me by ap- sented to the additional fortnight, upon the pointment, and formally submitted the una- specific understanding, however, that if in nimous advice of my Ministers, that Parlia- the interval anything should occur which in ment should be prorogued according to the my opinion required Parliament to meet announcement made by my authority in both sooner, an expression of my wishes to that Houses previous to its adjournment. After effect would be at once acted upon without some conversation, in which we went over the comment or discussion. whole ground, and again examined the sug- These matters being settled, I returned to gestion contained in my letter relative to an where the deputation of remonstrant mem- adjournment, I finally announced to him bers was waiting for me. They were intro- that, on a due consideration of all the cir- duced by their Chairman, Mr. Cartwright, a cumstances of the case, the prorogation of gentleman for whom I have a great esteem. Parliament seemed to me inevitable, —that I In presenting the Memorial, Mr. Cartwright did not feel myself justified in withdrawing stated that it had been signed by ninety-two my confidence from Ministers, or in conclude members of Parliament, and that another ing that Parliament had done so, and that, gentleman had intimated his willingness to therefore, I was prepared to be guided by the have his signature attached to it. I found, counsels of himself and his colleagues, —but however, on examining the document, that that I must formally insist on one condition three of the ninety-two signatures had been as the price of my assent to prorogation, affixed by deputy, though, of course, with viz. : —That Parliament should be again con- the full authority of their owners. I note voked within as short a period as was consis- the circumstance, however, as I shall have tent with the reasonable convenience of mem- occasion to refer to it hereafter. bers, and that I considered six or eight weeks As my interview with my Council had was as long an interval as should intervene occupied some little time, it had not been beore the House re-assembled. Sir John possible for me either to study or to write Macdonald did not offer any objection to this my reply to the Memorial. I was therefore proposition—indeed he had already volun- forced to make Mr. Cartwright and his teered a suggestion to a similar effect, —and friends an extempore answer, which was it was agreed that I should meet my Council afterwards reduced to writing as nearly as at two o'clock, in order that it might be rati- possible in the terms actually used. This fied in the presence of all my Ministers. document, together with the members' re- Atf one o clock, however, \I was unexpect- monstrance, I subjoin for your Lordships edly informed that a deputation of Members information. of Parliament was desirous of waiting MEMORIAL. J upon me with a Memorial against prorogation. I " The undersigned, members of the House had not received the slightest intimation of of Commons of Canada, desire respectfully the intention of these gentlemen, yet, al- to approach your Excellency, and humbly to though I felt the propriety of such a step represent that more than four months have

! upon their part was very questionable, I con- already elapsed since the Hon. Mr. Hun- cluded to receive them. tington made, from his place in the House, In the meantime I had repaired to the grave charges of corruption against your Ex- Council Chamber, as agreed upon, where my cellency's constitutional advisers in reference

Ministers jointly re-submitted the advice to the Pacific Railway contract ; that al- they had commissioned Sir John Macdonald though the House has appointed a Commit- convey on their behalf in the morning. I tee to enquire into the said charges, the pro- have, on various , made the same reply to them as to my Prime ceedings of this Committee Minister, and the re-assembly of Parliament grounds, been postponed, and the enquiry

within the time specified was agreed upon. has not yet taken place ; that the honour of It was, however, suggested that if ten weeks the country imperatively requires that no were named as tin limit instead of eight, it further delay should take place in the inves- would be possible to get the preparation of tigation of charges of so grave a character, the estimates sufficiently advanced to roll and which it is the duty and undoubted right two sessions into one, and dispense with the and privilege of the Commons to prosecute. usual spring session. Although I was scarce- "The undersigned are deeply impressed ly in a position to know how lar this pro- with the conviction that any attempt to post- posal was practicable, or would be acceptable pone this enquiry, or to remove it from the to Parliament, it would evidently prove jurisdiction of the Commons, would create such a saving of expense to the country, and the most intense dissatisfaction ; and they of fatigue and inconvenience to members, therefore pray your Excellency not to pro- many of whom would otherwise scarcely have rogue Parliament until the House of Com- time to return to their homes at all between mons shall have an opportunity of taking " —

1873 EARL OF DUFFERLN. 141

such steps as it may deem necessary and ex- I transmitted a certified copy of it to the pedient with;! reference to this important Secretary of State, in accordance with the matter. instructions by which I am bound on such " The number of names signed to this occasions. That, leaning myself to the opi- document is ninety, within ten of one-half of nion (an opinion founded on the precedent

tne House. They are as follows : afforded by the Act of the Canadian Parlia- "Opposition. —Anglin, Archibald, Bain, ment, which empowers the Senate to examine Bechard, Bergin, Blain, Blake, Bod well, witnesses on oath) that the Act was not Bourassa, Bowman, Boyer, Brouse, Buell, ultra vires, I accompanied it by a full expo- Burpee (Sunbury), Cameron (Huron), Cart- sition of the arguments which could be

wright, Casey, Casgrain, Cauchon, Charlton, urged in its support ; but on the point being Church, Cockburn (Muskoka), Cook, Cutler, referred by the Secretary of State for Delorme, St. George, Dorion, Dorion, Edgar, the professional opinion of the law offi- Ferris, Findlay, Fiset, Fleming, Fournier, cers of the Crown, it was pro- Galbraith, Geoffrion, Gibson, Gillies, Goudge, nounced inconsistent with the Act of Con- Hagar, Harvey, Higginbotham, Holton, Hor- federation. The postponement therefore of ton, Huntington, Jett6, Laflamme, Lander- the enquiry, so far as it has arisen out of kin, McDonald (Glengarry), McKenzie, Mer- this circumstance, has resulted wholly by rier, Metcalf, Mills, Oliver, Paquet, Pater- the operation of law, and has been be- son, Pelletier, Pickard, Poser, Prevost, yond the control of any one concerned. Richard, Richards, Ross, Ross, Ross, Ross, "You then proceed to urge me, on grounds

Rymal, Smith ( Peel), Snider. Stirton, Tasche- which #.re very fairly and forcibly stated, to reau, Thompson, Thomson, Tremblay, decline the advice which has been unani- Trow, White (Halton), Wilkes, Wood, mously tendered to me by my responsible Young, Young. Ministers, and to refuse to prorogue Parlia-

"Ministerialists. —Burpee (St. John), ment ; in other words, you require me to dis-

Coffin, Cunningham, Forbes, Glass, Mac- miss them from my counsels ; for, gentlemen, donell (Inverness), Ray, Schultz, Scriver, you must be aware that this would be the Shibley, D. A. Smith (Selkirk), A. J. Smith necessary result of my assenting to your re- (Westmoreland). commendation. REPLY. " Upon what grounds would I be justified " Gentlemen, —It is quite unnecessary for in taking so grave a step ? ' me to assure you that any representations ' What guarantee can you afford me that emanating from persons possessing the right the Parliament of the Dominion would en- to speak on public affairs with such authority dorse such an act of personal interference on as yourselves will always be considered by my part ? me with the greatest respect, even had not "Y"ou yourselves, gentlemen, do not form circumstances already compelled me to give an actual moiety of the House of Commons, my most anxious thought to the matters to and I have no means, therefore, of as- which you are now desirous of calling my at- certaining that the majority of that body tention. subscribe to the opinion you have enounced. " You say, in your memorandum, that " Again, to what should I have to appeal four months have elapsed since the Hon. in justification of my conduct ? Mr Huntington preferred grave charges of "It is true grave charges have been pre- corruption against my present advisers in ferred against these gentlemen—charges reference to the Pacific Railway contract, which I admit require the most searching in- and that although the House has appointed vestigation ; but as you yourselves remark a Committee to enquire into these charts,. in your memorandum, the truth of these ac- the proceedings of this Committee have on cusations still remain untested. various grounds been postponed, and the en- "One of the authors of this correspond- quiry has not yet taken place. ence, which has made so painful an impres- " Gentlemen, no person can regret more sion upon the public, has admitted that many deeply than I do these unfortunate delays, of his statements were hasty and inaccurate ; the more so as they seem to have given rise and has denied on oath the correctness of the to the impression that they have been un- deductions drawn from them. necessarily interposed by the action of the " Various assertions contained in the nar- Executive. rative of the other have been positively con- " It may be premature at this moment to tradicted. enter into a history of the disallowance by " Is the Governor-General, upon the the Imperial Government of the Oaths Bill, i strength of such evidence as this, to drive but this much, at all events, it is but fair to from his presence gentlemen who for years every one that I should state, viz., that im- have filled the highest offices of State, and in mediately after I had assented to that Act whom, during the recent session, Parlia 42 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873 merit has repeatedly declared its continued legal standing, character and authority as confidence ? It is true, certain documents of will command the confidence of the public, grave significance have lately been publish- by virtue of the powers conferred upon me ed in the newspapers in connection with by the Act 31 Vic, cap. 38. On the other these matters in regard to which the fullest hand, I have determined in proroguing Par- explanation must be given, but no proof has liament to announce to the members of both yet been adduced which necessarily connects Houses my intention of assembling them im- them with the culpable transactions of which mediately after the Commission in question it is asserted they formed a part, however shall have concluded its labours. By these questionable they may appear, as placed in means an opportunity will be afforded for the juxtaposition with the correspondence to preliminary expurgation of these unhappy which they have been appended by the per- matters before a tribunal competent to take son who has possessed himself of them. evidence on oath; ample opportunities will " Under these circumstances, what right be given to the members of the more dis- has the, Governor-General, on his personal tant Provinces to make their preparations, responsibility, to proclaim to Canada—nay, in view of an autumnal session ; and with- not only to Canada, but to America and in two months or ten weeks from this date a K.urope, as such a proceeding on his part full Parliament of Canada will take supreme must necessarily do—that he believes his and final cognizance of the case now pending Ministers guilty of the crimes alleged against between my Ministers and their accusers. them.? Were it possible at the present time " Gentlemen, the situation we have been to make a call of the House, and pUce my- discussing is one of great anxiety and em- self iu direct communication with the Parlia- barrassment, but I cannot but hope that on ment of the Dominion, my present embarrass- a calm retrospect of the various considera- ment would disappear, but this is a physical tions to be kept in view, you will come to impossibility. I am assured by my Prime the conclusion that in determining to be guid- Minister, and the report of the proceedings ed by the advice of my Ministers, on the at the time bears out his statements, that present occasion—in other words, in declin- when Parliament adjourned it was announc- ing to act as though the charges which have ed by him, as the leader of the House, that been advanced against them were already thefmeeting on the 13th August would be proven, and in adhering to arrangements that immediately followed by prorogation ; upon the faith of which many of your col- no substantive objection was taken to this leagues are absent from their places, I have consequence, announcement ; and that, as a adopted the course most in accordance with a considerable portion of your fellow-mem- the maxims of Constitutional Government, directions. I bers are dispersed in various and what is due to those whom the Parlia- should therefore only deceive myself were I ment of Canada has recommended to my to regard the present Assembly as a full Par- confidenes." liament. After the members had retired, it had be- " Since the adjournment, indeed, circum- come time for me to proceed to the Senate stances have occurred which render your Chamber, and about half-past three o'clock proximate re-assembly highly desirable, but the Speaker appeared at the Bar, and Par- in this country there are physical circum- liament was prorogued. Considerable ex- stances which necessarily interpose a con- citement, I am informed, prevailed in the siderable lapse of time before the represen- House of Commons, and cries of " Privilege" tatives of the various Provinces comprising were uttered^ when Black Rod made his ap- the confederated Parliament of Canada can pearance but as far as I can learn, nothing assemble, separated as some of them are by ; was done or said incompatible with the thousands of miles from the capital of the dignity and self-respect of that assembly. Dominion. Only the Ministerialists present, about thirty- " In regulating the times and seasons five in number, accompanied the Speaker when Parliament is to be called together, to the Senate Chamber. The Opposition, the Executive is bound not only to consider amongst whom, on this occasion, I supoose the reasonable convenience of these gentle- must be included thirteen of the ordinary men, but also to protect the federal rights of supporters of my Government who had signed the Provinces which they represent; and the Memorial, remained behind in their under these circumstances I have concluded, places. Upwards of seventy members in a on the advice of my Ministers (and even if I House of two hundred must have been differed from them as to a policy of such a absent—all of whom, with the exception of course, which I do not, it is a point upon three, were claimed by Government as tkeir which I should not hesitate to accept their adherents. recommendation), to issue a Royal Commis- is popularly know 11 sion of Enquiry to three gentlemen of such In the evening, what "

1873 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 43

jq- as an "indignation" meeting was But if a short prorogation was wrong, what fi ' held, under the presidency of Mr. were the alternatives ? An adjournment. Mackenzie I have appended to this des- But an adjournment is an act of the House, patch a report of its proceedings. and cannot be compelled by the Executive. I have thus recounted, in as faithful lan- The leader of the House had already rejected guage as I can command, the various circum- the suggestion, and not the slightest intima- stances connected with the recent proroga- tion had ever reached me that such an expe- tion. In doing so, your Lordship will per- dient would be agreeable to the Opposition. ceive that I have not attempted to discuss, On the contrary, their last word within an still less to defend, the action of my Minis- hour off the time the House was to meet, as ters on any of the occasions referred to, conveyed to me by the ninety- two members, except so far as the justification of their con- amongst whom were Mr. Mackenzie and Mr. duct follows as a corollary to the vindication Blake, was— "Let us meet and proceed to of the attitude I myself have assumed. The business as though we were a fully con- propriety of their procedure is a matter which stituted assembly, representing the collective they will have to settle with the Canadian will of the people. Parliament. My contestation would be, that But it has been suggested that I should, on the fact of their being hereafter proved the one hand, have compelled the acquies' innocent or guilty of the accusations alleged cence of Sir John Macdonald in an adjourn- against them, or of having acted judiciously ment by refusing to prorogue, while, on the or the reverse, is a result which can have no other, Mr. Mackenzie ought to have been relation to my share in these transactions, driven into the arrangement under a threat and that, given the circumstances in which I of prorogation, found myself, I have acted in the highest .Now, 1 am quite ready to admit that one interests of the Parliament and of the people of the functions of a Governor-General is to of Canada. In the same way, if from time moderate the animosities of party warfare, to to time I have argued against any of the hold the balance even between the contend- views maintained by the Opposition, it has ing parties, to see that the machinery of the only been as contending against their implied Constitution is not unfairly strained for condemnation of what I myself have done or party purposes, to intervene with his coun- said. sels at opportune moments, and when desired Were I to be put upon my defence, my by his Ministers to become the channel of best justification would be found in a review Communication with their opponents, or, even, of whatever other courses may be considered though uninvited, to offer himself as nego- to have been possible; but this enquiry has tiator in a difficulty. But the role marked been pretty well exhausted in the course of out for me above is very different from this. the preceding statement. The alternatives I I certainly should not have considered it con- have seen suggested by those who are dis- sistent with my personal honour to have ap- posed to criticize my conduct are indeed very proached my Prime Minister with a threat I few. The morning after the news of the had no intention of executing, even had I prorogation had reached Toronto, but before seen less clearly than I did the objections to my pledge in regard to an autumn session the course proposed; while, except at his was known, the Globe—a recognized organ of instance, I should have been still less justi- the Opposition, and one of the ablest con- fied in opening communications with the ducted papers in Canada— in lamenting the Opposition. But, as I have already explained, prospects of a recess which was to last to the mere negotiation of an adjournmexit February of next year, observed that " a would not have advanced matters in any prorogation for two or three weeks " would degree, unless the issues relative to the have been a proper course. As I had actually future proceedings of the Committee could anticipated the pith of these suggestions have been settled at the same time ; but the (for the question of a few extra weeks, I ap- divergencies of opinion upon these points prehend, could not have become any grave were irreconcilable, and could never have cause of complaint), I natu rally?might have been satisfactorily dealt with except by the expected to have been complimented on my House ia full session. action ; but although this paper and all the If, then, my choice lay—which seems to be other Opposition journals in Canada have, admitted—between a short prorogation and a with a few exceptions, shown great forbear- barren adjournment for a similar period, I do ance to me personally—considering the ex- not think it can be disputed that the former citement which prevailed and the forcible was the preferable of the two. language in which leading articles are written Of course it was always open to me to have —I am afraid I must admit to your Lordship dismissed my Ministers, and have to take my that its subsequent allusions to my procedure chance of Parliament approving my conduct, have not been eulogistic. but I did not feel myself warranted in ha- —

44 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873

Z&rding such a step on the data before me. of those which are tabooed. The arrange- Indeed, the rashness and injustice of the ment • will lighten our responsibili- proceeding would probably have roused such ties, our salaries will remain the a feeling of dissatisfaction in the minds of same, and our honour"—I cannot exactly what I have no reason to know may not prove conjecture how the sentence would have the majority of the constituencies that there concluded. But the suggestion that my re- would have been a great chance— if Sir John fusal to take their advice upon prorogation and his friends came at all decently out of would not have been tantamount to a dis- the affair—of their being borne back into missal of them, is too untenable to need re- office on the shoulders of the people. If futation. wholly exculpated, your Lordship can imagine Before, however, closing this head of the what my position would become in presence discussion it may be well to examine the of the reaction that would have ensued. At grounds on which it is alleged I ought to all events, as I told the remonstrant members have withdrawn my confidence from Sir in my reply, I was not prepared, by publicly John Macdonald and his colleagues. withdrawing my confidence from my Minis- In order to answer this question, we must ters, to proelaim to Canada, to America, and inquire what I had to go upon ? There were to Europe that I believed untried men guilty Mr. Huntington's statements as displayed in of such atrocious crimes as those imputed to his motion, —but these statements were not them. It iB, however, not necessary to statements of facts, but of conclusions drawn debate this line of conduct, as no responsible from facts within Mr. Huntington's know- person in this country has ventured to recom- ledge perhaps, but not within mine, and mend it. offered no safe foothold. Next, there were But though not directly suggesting the dis- Sir Hugh Allan's statements, —but upon missal of my Ministers, it has been very which was I to found myself, —upon those in generally contended that I should have con- Sir Hugh's letters, in which he admits there sidered them under a ban, and should have was a good deal of " inaccurate " language, ceased to act on their advice, though still or upon those in his affidavit ? If upon the retaining them in office. The establishment latter, could I have pronounced the Gov- of a relationship of this kind between the ernment guilty ? Then there were Mr. Crown and its Ministers would be a novel McMullen's statements, —but these have fact in Constitutional history, and might been much questioned, and many of them have proved difficult of execution. I was to contradicted. I do not think the people of go to my Council and say to Canada would be willing to allow the repu- them, "Gentlemen, you state that in tation of any of their representative men to your opinion the Crown has pledged be staked upon evidence of this nature. itself to Parliament to prorogue on Lastly, there was Sir George Carrier's letter,

a certain day : you assert as a matter of fact and Sir John Macdonald's telegram. In re- that, relying on this pledge, sixty or seventy spect to these documents, I would merely members are not in their places, and that to observe that suspicious as they might ap- allow the House to proceed to business in pear, no man would have been justified in their absence would be a gross impropriety acting upon any conclusion in regard to to which you would not consent, and that them, until it had been shown with what in view of this circumstance as my constitu- transactions they were connected. There is tional advisers, placed about me by the as yet no evidence to prove that the sums will of Parliament, you unanimously advise referred to were consideration moneys for

me to prorogue. Well, gentlemen, when the Pacific Railway Charter ; and Sir Hugh Parliament last voted, you possessed a com- Allan states upon his oath that they were

manding majority : whether you have lost not, as will be seen from the subjoined ex- the contidence of Parliament or not I cannot tract from his affidavit : tell. You say you have not. Others say " In these and similar ways I expended you have. Your political opponents have sums of money approaching in amount those brought grave accusations against you. You mentioned in those letters, as I conceive I

are therefore under a ban. You nave for- had a perfect right to do ; but I did not feited my confidence. I do not intend to state in those letters, nor is it the fact, that tike your advice, except on mere questions any portion of those sums of money were of administration, but—pray retain your paid to the members of the Government, or places." To which, of course,— these gentle- were received by them or on their behalf men would have replied : " We are highly directly as a consideration in any form for sensible 01 to me in cmuection with your Excellency's forbearance ; any advantage perhaps you will favour us with a list of the Pacific Railway contract." subjects on which you will accept our recom- On the other hand, what were the counter- mendation, as well as an index expurgatorius vailing facts within my knowledge? The —

DUFFEBJN. 45 1873 fEARL OF

subjoined record of votes taken on test theory of the prosecution is "that the terms to divisions : of the charter were corruptly modified the advantage of Sir Hugh Allan and his 7th March, majority for Government 16 American confederates." Has the bargain 18th do do do 25 do Certainly not as far as 2nd April, do 31 been carried out ? do do 26 com- 17th do the Americans are concerned. Their 7th May, do do 31 plaint is that they have taken nothing by 8th do do do 33 do do 24 their motion. I was myself a witness of the 12th do 16th do do do 35 pains taken to exclude them when the charter was being framed. Have Sir Hugh They had left off with a majority of 35 Allan and his frieuds been gratified with at their command. The ordinary pre- that control over the concern to attain which sumption would be that their supporters Mr. McMullen asserts he bribed my Minis- still adhered to them. Had anything oc- elucidate, this ters ? This is a fact less easy to curred to invalidate conclusion ? The but I myself believe that he has not. At publication of the documents I have referred moments when Sir John Macdonald could to ? Judging from the process of thought in not have been playing a part he gave me my own mind, which compelled me to sus- repeated indications of his desire to prevent pend my verdict. I could not bring myself Sir Hugh from obtaining any commanding to believe that Parliament had jumped to influence on the direction. That direction any premature conclusion. But I had one was framed with a view to a proper repre- other indication to assist me. Ninety- two sentation upon it of every Province in members of Parliament declared themselves Canada, regard being had to the wealth and opposed to the views of Ministers on proro- population of each. It numbers amongst its gation. Where were the other one hundred members gentlemen who had been on the and seven, and what were their opinions ? direction of the late Interoceanic Company, Of the thirty-five or forty who were in their and it includes the names of men whom places, not one took steps to make me aware every one would acknowledge would never that they had ceased to support the Govern- willingly associate themselves with any dis- ment. Their names were conspicuously ab- honourable enterprise. It is difficult to be- sent from the Memorial. The sixty or sixty- lieve that these personages are either the five members who were away cannot com- willing or unconscious tools of Sir H. Allan. plain if I have interpreted their absence as Hence, we must arrive at the inference that an indication that they endorsed the policy at all events, if the crime was imagined, it of Government, so far at least as prorogation can scarcely have been consummated. This was concerned. That the Memorialists were would not in the least excuse its authors, so many and no more was in itself signifi- but if a thing has not been done, the fact cant, for it gave the measure of the effort affords prima facie grounds for believing that made and the maximum result. There were it was not intended to be done. Lastly, I not even a moiety of the House. They have received the most solemn assurances were a minority, and therefore not in a posi- from my Ministers, both individually and tion to acquaint me with the wishes of the collectively, on their word as men of honour, majority, or to speak in behalf of Parlia- and on their fealty to the Crown as my ment at all. So acutely was the force of sworn Councillors, that they are absolutely this fact felt, that within a very few days innocent of the things laid to their charge. after prorogation it was industriously cir- culated by all the Opposition newspapers, On a balance of the foregoing considera- that in refusing to acquiesce in the sugges- tions, can anyone say that I should have tions of the signatories of this Memorial, I been justified in deliberately violating my had flown in the face of a "majority" of first duty as a constitutional ruler on a the House of Commons. It is said that hy- premature assumption of the guilt of these pocrisy is the homage paid by vice to virtue. gentlemen ? The pertinacity with which this -misstate- a still more important question re- But ment has been propagated, I cannot but re- behind. I any means of knowing mains Had gard as a homage to the strength of my po- Ministers had forfeited the cong- that my sition. But, not content with this, some of Commons—for, of dence of the House papers have even gone further, and stated if this were the case, any inward im- course, positively that other gentlemen, friends of would cease to be ele- pression of my own the Government, waited upon me the same ments of the problem ? day and held language similar to the remon- could What were the facts upon which I strants—an assertion for which there is not rely? During the whole of the preceding the slightest foundation, for on that day, up session the Government had marched from to three o'clock, with the exception of the victory to victory, as will be seen by the Speaker, the remonstrant members them- a

46 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873

selves, and my Ministers, I had neither in signing the Memorial they by no means spoken to nor heard from a single member of intended to signify that they withdrew their Parliament. support from Government. But it has been subsequently argued, that It is further to be remembered that al- inasmuch as no division ever took place in a though I was in Ottawa at six in the morn- perfectly full House, ninety-two signatures ing, I heard nothing of this Memorial until implied a practical majority—as though my one o'clock, that three was the hour at which appreciation of what should constitute a ma- Parliament met, that the gentlemen bring- jority is to be regulated by my estimate of ing it must have known that its presenta- the cogency of the respective whips. If, tion and perusal must have occupied some however, we are to count noses with such time, and that I was bound to communicate particularity, let us see how the case stands. it to my Ministers, yet it was upon the I admit that the numerical strength of a strength of a document of this nature, pre- house is always in excess of its voting sented in this fashion when my Speech from power. There will always be accidental va- the Throne was in the hands of the printers, cancies. But the ranks of each side are and the guard of Honour under arms, that I equally liable to be thinned by casualties. was expected to take a step which under What was the voting power represented by such circumstances must have inevitably led to this Memorial ? It is true, on the word of a change of Government, and possibly a the Chairmau, I took 93 as the number of general election. persons on whose behalf he spoke, but the I have one further point to mention, and I actual signatures at the time I had to decide have done. It is a favourite theory at this on my course were only 92. Of these, three moment with many persons, that when once were affixed by proxy, reducing the momen- grave charges of this nature have been pre- tary voting strength of the body represented ferred against the Ministry, they become ipso facto unfit to counsel the Crown. The prac- to 89 ; for it is to be presumed that, unless detained from Ottawa, the remaining gentle- tical application of this principle would men would have signed with their own prove very inconvenient, and would leave not hands. Now, if we double 89 we get a house only the Governor-General, but every Lieu- of 178, and no later than last session 183 tenant-Governor in the Dominion, very thin- names appeared on a division list—so that ly provided with responsible advisers, for as the 89 remonstrants represented only a far as I have been able to seize the spirit of minority of the House even on this principle political controversy in Canada, there is of reckoning. But during the whole of last scarcely an eminent man in the country on session, Government had a large majority— either side whose character or integrity has condition of affairs which superinduces a not been, at one time or another, the subject laxity of attendance. Had the two parties of reckless attack by his opponents in the been more evenly balanced, had victory press. Even your Lordship and Mr. Glad- depended on only a few votes, the muster stone have not escaped, for it has been of members would have been inevitably more than insinuated that the Imperial Gov- stronger, and the maximum division list of ernment have been 'got at' by Sir John 183 undoubtedly exceeded. Macdonald, and that the law officers of But I am not prepared to admit that a Her Majesty were instructed to condemn Governor-General would be justified in tak- the Oaths Bill contrary to their legal convic- ing so serious a step as was then urged upon tions. me, on the strength of a Memorial signed In conclusion, I desire to call your Lord- even by a majority of members of Parlia- ship's attention to the fact, that in this de- ment. Except so far as bringing a certain spatch I have made no allusion to the Royal amount of pressure to bear upon him for a Commission, which I have just issued under momentary purpose, a document of this na- the advice of my Ministers. desire is the transactions re- ture is quite inconsequent. It would prove My to keep so much wast'j paper in the presence of a lating to the prorogation of Parliament, different mandate from the constituencies of and to the issue of the Commission, en- quite many of these gentlemen, and when the time tirely distinct. These two events are for voting arrived, the Governor who relied disconnected and independent. The to agree to the upon it might very well find a considerable reasons which induced me con- proportion of its signatories on the wrong prorogation of Parliament had to be effect of side of the division list, with a dozen plau- sidered without reference to the least sible excuses for their having played him prorogation on the Committee, or at to over- false. Indeed, within a couple of hours after they appeared sufficiently cogent founded the deputation had left my presence, I was power any countervailing arguments assured on trustworthy authority that some on the necessity of keeping the Committee desired of these very persons had openly stated that alive. However much I might have —

1873 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 47 to do so, I could not have treated Parliament during this short recess, anything could be as a pregnant woman, and prolonged its ex- done to forward the hitherto abortive en- istence for the sake of the lesser life attached quiry touching the Pacific Railway Charter. to it. If I have satisfied your Lordship that When I was at Prince Edward Island, and prorogation under the circumstances was the in communication with my two Ministers, proper course, the extinction of the Commit- Messrs. Tilley and Tupper, —shortly after tee was an ill effect with which I had no the publication of the McMullen correspond- concern. It is necessary to keep this con- ence, — I had intimated to them that, should sideration very clearly before our eyes, the Committee of the House of Commons otherwise a confusion of ideas will ensue, find itself unable to prosecute the investiga- prejudicial to a correct judgment of the case. tion, the truth must be got at somehow, The extinction of the Committee is being and that perhaps an enquiry conducted before denounced as the worst feature in the trans- three judges of the land might prove a satis- action by persons who are ready tc admit factoi y issue out of the difficulty. In mak- that prorogation was perhaps a necessity, and ing this suggestion I was actuated by a they insensibly transfer their dissatisfaction double motive. In the first place, I was with the result to the circumstance which deeply distressed at the embarrassing rela- occasioned it. The same class of minds pro- tions which existed between my Ministers bably conjecture- that the destruction of the and myself. These gentlemen were being Committee was the main inducement with assailed by irresponsible newspaper corres- my Government for insisting on prorogation, pondents with accusations of the most in- but with speculations of this kind I have jurious description. Documents which, nothing to do. I prorogued Parliament for perhaps, in themselves proved nothing, had what I considered not only full and suffici- been brought into an alleged connection with ent, but imperative reasons. The subordi- a narrative that invested them with a very nate consequences incident to the transaction sinister signification. The Parliamentary do not, therefore, come under review. Committee that had undertaken to discover There is one further point it may be well the truth appeared to be paralyzed, and the to remember. I see it is asserted that the accused were thus shut out from all means Government purposely kept its sixty mem- of vindicating their characters. Yet it was bers away. Of course I have no means of to these persons I was bound to recur for knowing how far this may have been the advice in all matters affecting the adminis- case. It is probable that having concludtd tration of public affairs. Again, as an Im- that the session could not be prolonged, my perial officer, it was my duty to watch with Ministers may have notified their followers especial care over Imperial interests. The to that effect, but it is an indisputable fact allegation current against my Ministers and that the absence of a considerable proportion others, was that they had fraudulently dealt was unavoidable. with certain monetary trusts, voted indeed In another despatch I propose to address by the Parliament of Canada, but guaranteed your Lordship on the subject of the Com- to a considerable extent, by the Imperial mission. Government. This being so, I was evident- I have the honour to be, my Lord, ly bound, apart from any action of the Your Lordship's most obedient servant, Canadian House of Commons, whose powers (Signed) DUFFERIN. of scrutiny seemed for the present of small The Right Hon. the Earl of Kimberley, avail, to obtain satisfaction in regard to &c, &c, &c. these matters by any constitutional methods SUPPLEMENTARY DESPATCH. within my reach. Indeed from this point of [In this despatch His Excellency gives a view it was not the Ministry of the day, further insight into the spring of his move- who are but an evanescent Committee of ments in this great crisis.] Parliament,—but the Parliament of Canada No. 198. itself that was responsible to Great Britain Canada, Aug. 18, 1873. in respect of any malversation which might My Lord,— In my previous despatch of the have occurred—as having confided the dis- 15th August, I had the honour of informing posal of these interests to improper agents. your Lordship of the circumstances under At the same time, as long as the Parlia- which Parliament was prorogued on the mentary .Committee was in existence, even 13th. though it had ceased to act, the resort to As a consequence of that event, the Pacific any other instrument of investigation was Railway Committee of Enquiry became ex- not desirable. Beyond, therefore, the casual tinct, aud, as I have already mentioned, an suggestion to which I have referred, nothing interval of eight or ten weeks was to elapse further was volunteered by me in this sense. before the re-assembly of Parliament, A When, however, the prorogation of Parlia- question consequently arose as to whether, ment being decided upon, and the Commit- 44 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873 tee of the House of Commons being about the controversy to which the issue of this consequently to become extinct, my Govern- Commission has given rise. ment undertook, on its own responsibility,to The objections urged against it seem to be advise the issue of a Commission to three three in u umber : Judges of character, standing, and acknow- 1st. That the present investigation is not ledged integrity, I had no difficulty in ac- of the kind contemplated by the Act. quiescing in their recommendation. This point is so entirely a question of I have now, therefore, to inform your legal interpretation that I can only be guided Lordship that on the 14th August I signed a in regard to it by my law officer. Commission at the instance of my responsi- 2nd. That the issue of the Commission ble advisers, and by virtue of the powers is an invasion of the privilege of Parlia- vested in the Governor-General by the ment ; that Parliament being seized Canadian Act of the 31 Vic, cap. 38, to the of the matter, no other authority has a Honourable Judge Day, the Honourable right to concern itself in the investigation. Judge Polette and Judge Gowan, authoriz- I apprehend that this view cannot be sus- ing them to enquire into the various matters tained. The powers with which the Com- connected with the issue of the Pacific Hail- mission is vested being legal, and granted by way Charter. A copy of this Commission I Parliament without limitation, it is difficult have the honour to append.- to believe that their exercise can be held an On referring to, it, your Lordship will interference with the privileges of Parlia- observe that the purview of the Commission ment. It is not a criminal suit, but a sim- is very wide and inquisitorial, and that there ple enquiry that has been instituted by the is nothing to restrict its reception of any- House of Commons at the instance of my thing that may appear to deserve the name Ministers. Moreover, Parliament has of evidence. The professional antecedents ceased to conduct this enquiry. The Crown of these gentlemen are set forth in the ac- possesses no absolute guarantee that it will companying document, which bas been pre- be renewed, or that when it will pared for me by my Ministers. Only one of be effectual. If Ministers fall on them is personally kuown to me, viz. Judge a vote of want of confidence on Day, who, as Chancellor of the McGill the Address, it might prove the interest of so University, received me on my visit to that many persons to let the matter drop, that institution. Since that we have improved the Committee may not be reappointed. our acquaintance, and I have no hesitation Unless conducted under oath, the investiga- in stating, both from what I know and have tion will certainly prove ineffectual ; and learnt, that I have every confidence in Judge I am advised that it is doubtful whether any Day's high sense of honour, capacity, and device exists by which a mere Committee of firmness. the House of Commons can be enabled to I have also considered it my duty to satisfy swear its witnesses. If, therefore, an im- myself as to the qualifications of the two mediate investigation will promote the other gentlemen with whom he is associated, " good government of Canada," to quote and I am in a position to inform your Lord- the words of theAct, I do not apprehend.that ship that they are generally regarded as per- Parliament can denounce the Commission, sons of unblemished integrity, sound judg- as, a breach of privilege. The House of Com- ment, and professional ability, while the mons may declare the issue of the Commision length of time all three have been removed to be inopportune and unadvisaMe, and may from politics free them from the suspicion of visit with its displeasure the Ministers who political partizanship. counselled its appointment, but it can have Notwithstanding the creditable antece- no locus standi as against the Crown itself. dents of these personages, they have been Moreover, it must be remembered that sharply assailed by the Opposition press, for the.Commission can in no|way intercept or su- which the praises of the Ministerial organs persede the jurisdiction of the'House of Com- is scarcely an adequate consolation. Per- mons. It will be quite competent for Parlia- haps, however, it may not be amiss that I ment to ignore the fact of its having existed. should append two or three articles from Its influeuce on the present situation will newspapers bitterly opposed to the Govern- entirely depend on the way in which it dis- ment, who, nevertheless, are compelled to charges its functions. If the public is con- bear a scant and niggard testimony to the vinced that it has elucidated the truth —no high qualities of these gentlemen. matter with what result—its position will be

Under ordinary circumstances, I should unassailable ; if it fails to do so, it will not have thought it sufficient to have terminated require the action of Parliament to proclaim my despatch at this point, but as matters its dccheance. now stand, it is necessary that I should de- There is yet another way of looking at the scribe to your Lordship the chief features of matter. Few people will deny that indivi- 1873 EfVRL OF DUFFERIN. 49

dually I have the right to require an expla- which adhere to all Parliamentary Commit- nation from mj Ministers in regard to these tees on such occasions it might possibly transactions. But it is evident that in re- possess greater vigour of evisceration than spect of so complicated a business I have a Commission, though its ultimate neither the time, nor the knowledge, nor the verdict might not prove unanimous. It professional acuteness necessary to unravel would, moreover, have been able to command the tangled web of incriminatory matter the appearauce of Mr. Huntington as a wil- presented to me. If, then, I possess the ling prosecutor. That gentleman, as J legal power, and if, by undertaking to an- understand, intends to question the jurisdic* swer for the act, my Ministers endow me tion of Judge Day and his colleagues. Of with the constitutional power, can Parlia- course, the Ministeralists asseverate that he ment complain if 1 take advantage of these fears being brought to book; that having circumstances to subject r>

though the commission that 5 ^presents me, through the agency of Mr. McMullen's let- to such an interrogatory as I may deem ad- ters, he would willingly let the Government visable, or if I order the collection of such lie as long as possible under the odium of a other evidence as may be forthcoming, and vague charge which accurate enquiry would

is calculated to throw light upon the busi- dispose of ; but this seems a groundless as- persion. Mr. Huntington may be, and in- Nor has Mr. Huntington himself any deed I trust, and so far believe, is mistaken. grounds to dispute my right to take cogni- He may have " got hold of the wrong end zance of the affair. While the Parliamentary of the stick," and have been too quick in

Committee was still in existence, he ap- drawing inferences ; it may be doubtful if proached me officially and directly with com- he is well advised in declining to appear, if munications incriminating sworn members of that should be his determination, but that my Privy Council. It is true I returned after all he has said and done he should have him the documents he forwarded, and de- misgivings as to Irs case is not credible, and clined to take personal cognizance of a mat- such an injurious supposition is unjustifiable. ter then before a Committee of the House of But the difficulties in the way of making a Commons, but I retain his covering letter, second offer to Messrs. Blake and Dorion ap- and it is scarcely competent for him—the peared insuperable, but both of these gentle- Committee have ceased to exist—to decline men declining Sir John's former proposal to the jurisdiction of the Commission so far as make them Commissioners grounded them- it is concerned with what he himself brought selves not only on the necessity of obtaining to my notice. By his own act he has invit; the Houses sanction to their change of ed my iutervention, and submitted the status, an objection which, though somewhat matter to the direct cognizance of the subtle, was perhaps sustainable, but further- Crown. more asserted that as Commissioners their Thirdly. The " personnel " of the Com- independence would be destroyed. Mr. mission is complained of as partial to the Blake, moreover, had stated that on person Government, and as having been chosen by a grounds he could not consent to act on the accused. Into the personal question I a Commission appointed under the advice of need not enter further than I have done. Sir John Macdonald. As there was no rea- That the Commissioners should have been son to suppose that these gentlemen had named by the Government is an accident in- changed their minds in these respects, it did evitable to the anomalous situation of not appear advisable to re-approach them on

affairs ; but when we consider the character the subject. and antecedents of these gentlemen, that Under these circumstances it was evident they sit in open coui't, that their powers of —if the interval that must elapse before the enquiry are unlimited, t that they will act re-assembly of Parliament was to be utilized under the eyes of unsparing critics, that any —that any inquiry which might be possible appearance of flinching on their part will must be confided to fresh hands. only stimulate the desire both in and out of That my Ministers should desire an oppor- Parliament to further enquiry, and that in tunity of making themselves heard can be such an event a review of the case by the well understood. The language used on their of Commons is extremely probable, behalf is — House something of this sort : " For I do not think that any practical objection months past we have been the object of the can be taken to them on this account. vilest calumnies. Our most confidential I should have much preferred that Sir documents have been purloined by an in- John's previous offer to the House of Com- former, and dishonestly connected with a mons' Committee should have been renewed; narrative which is itself untrue. Hitherto for although this Committee cannot be pro- we have had no opportunity of rebutting nounced free from those characteristics these accusations. The instrument appoint- 4 —

50 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873

ed by the House of Commons to do justice sibility, and that it is better he should be between ns and our traducers has proved too tardy in relinquishing this palladium of powerless for that object. Considering with colonial liberty, than too rash in resorting to whom we have to deal, we require the evi- acts of personal interference. dence against us to be substantiated by an Considering how eager has been the con- oath. We are not willing to place our hon- troversy, I cannot hope to escape criticism, our at the mercy of our accusers unless pro- but any irritation thus engendered will per- tected against perjury. We ourselves are haps be softened by the reflection that, com- anxious to be heard upon our oaths. We ing to this country full of faith in its people doubt whether a Committee of the House of and its destinies, I was naturally slow to Commons can acquire the power of swearing believe that widespread public and personal in its witnesses without an Imperial Act. corruption should exist among its most emi- We think it but fair before Parliament re- nent public men. If it should turn out that assembles that we should have an opportu- I have been deceived in my estimate of Cana- nity of answering fully, point by point, the dian purity, the error is one which Canada injurious allegations brought against us; may afford to pardon. If, as I trust will be This cannot be done by mere statements. the case, the integrity of her chief statesmen We desire therefore to subject ourselves to is vindicated, I shall be well content if the as searching an interrogatory as a skilled fact of " my not having despaired of the tribunal or our most bitter opponents can ap- Republic " is forgotten in the general satis- ply. Unless we have this opportunity we faction such a result will produce. shall meet Parliament at a disadvantage. Be that as it may, there is one circum- Our enemies have possessed themselves of the stance which we can regard with unmiti- ear of the public for months. We have had gated satisfaction. The alleged revelations no opportunities of counteracting these in- which have taken place have profoundly fluences. Let at least our story be heard be- moved the whole population. Apart from fore a premature decision is snatched from the section of society "within politics" Parliament, saturated as it may have become whose feeling may be stimulated by other with these calumnies. We do not wish to considerations, every citizen in the country, escape from the scrutiny of the House of no matter how indifferent to public affairs, Commons. We know we could not do so has been dismayed and humiliated by the did we so desire—but since its action is for a thought that such things as are alleged to time suspended, do not condemn us to re- have taken place by Mr. McMullen and Mr. main, during the interval, under the appro- Huntington should be possible. This is a bium of such accusations." reassuring sign; and even should it be found, It is not my province to examine the force which God forbid, that the Government has of this pleading. I merely repeat it tor yonr been unworthy of the trust confided to it,

Lordship's information ; but no one can fail the indignation and the searchings of heart to see that my Ministers are fairly entitled, that will ensue throughout the land will go so far as the law allows them, to do what- far to cleanse the public life of Canada for ever in them lies to dissipate the impression man}7 a year to come. occasioned by the enforced silence entailed I must apologize for the length of this and upon them by the inaction of the late Par- my previous despatch, but in recording these liamentary Committee. transactions I felt that I was contributing I have now concluded my narrative of the to a page of the History of Canada. two important occurrences in which I have I have, &c, found myself so unexpectedly engaged. My (Signed) DUFFFRIN. anxieties have been very great, and my posi- The Right Hon. the Eirl of Kimberley, tion most embarrassing. If I have erred in &c, &c, &c. the conduct of these affairs, I feel I cau count upon your Lordship's indulgence to AT ST. JOHN N.B. put a favourable construction on my inten- [Delivered in reply to an address from the tions. Trained in the liberal school of poli- Children of the Common Schools, presented in tics under the auspices of a great champion August. The|only portion of the speech to of Parliamentary rights, my political instincts which special reference is necessary is that would revolt against any undue exercise of which is subjoined.] the Crown's prerogative. Yet it is of this I " Education is a subject to which I have find myself accused. I trust, however, that devoted a great deal of my time, and in reflection will dissipate such impressions, and which I am deeply interested. During my that the people of Canada will ultimately tour through the various parts of the Do- feel that it is for their permanent interest minion, I have felt it my duty to pay special that a Governor-Geneial should unflinchingly attention to a subject so vital to the interests maintain the principle of Ministerial respon- of Canada, and wherever I have gone I have " "

1874 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 51

Lad the satisfaction of observing that the merits and blessings may be, has unfortu- education of the children is among the fore- nately been only too much distinguished by most subjects which preoccupy the atten- the vehemence of religious controversy, it tion of my fellow-citizens. * * * I will has always afforded me the most genuine conclude by saying that among the many pleasure to observe how in Canada the de- glorious sights which it has been my good scendants of those who in past generations fortune to witness since I crossed the Atlan- often found themselves bitterly opposed, tic, there is none which has been so gratify- still retain allegiance to the respective of andihe Countess ing to the feelings myself churches in which they were born. ^ If in the of Dufferin as that which is here exhibited. progress and enlightenment of learn- Gentlemen, I see before me, standing in the ing they regard with very different brightness of their youth and beauty, the feelings from their ancestors those smiling representatives of the seven Pro- with whom they have the misfortune to vinces^vvhichc onstitute this Dominion ; and. differ in religious belief, I must say, wher- if I may be permitted to close my observa- ever I have gone in Canada, I have almost tions with a prayer, it is that as their pro- invariably found, as I have found this day, totypes now stand side by side in sisterly that ministers of the various religious per- union, and in the brightness of their youth- suasions, whether Catholic, Episcopalian, ful loveliness, so may these glorious Pro- Methodist, or to whatsoever denominations vinces ever remain united by the ties of they may belong, regard each other with sen- domestic affection and the bond of a common timents of the most unaffected goodwill, re- loyalty, and boast themselves to future cognizing, as a broader and stronger tie than ages as the mothers of a race as energetic, any other, that Lrotherhood which is engen- brave, and loyal as that to which their fair dered by their common faith in the princi- representatives before us belong. ples of Christianity. I trust that this good AT MONTREAL HIGH SCHOOL feeling will always distinguish the inhabi- [Delivered in reply to an address in Latin tants of Canada ; and that as civilization read to His Excellency on the occasion of progresses, and as human intelligence be- his visit to the institution on the 5ch of Feb- comes more extended, we shall be rnomand ruary. ] more disposed to overlook those slight "Vir Doctissime,vosPraeceptores celebres, differences of opinion which at present et vos hujus praeclarae Schoael Canadensis separate us, and be more ready to unite in alumni, me fortuna nescio qua permagna one common effort against those enmities coram vobis hac in aula hoc die versatum which we are apt to create in striving against invenio. the scourge of human existence. "Itaque me quum gratum,illustrissimi,tum TO THE OJIBBEWAY INDIANS. humilem sententiis vestris fecistis. Humi- [Delivered on the 27th July, in response lem, quippe qui literarum in studiis aliqua to an address from Joseph Benson Wane- ex parte versatus dumtaxat perfectae cumu- guishking and other Chiefs at Rama.] latseque scientise limina attigisse videar, " I am especially glad to learn from your cujus arcana explorasse mihinegatum est. address that you are contented with your Gratum autem, quippe qui, in hac clara im- present situation, that your circumstances perii nostri provincia munere regali exoihcio are prosperous, and that Providence has regio fungens, ilia voluntatis et fidei pignora blessed your industrious endeavours. I can accipio, non tam in meipsum expressa ac assure you that your Great Mother across provocata, quam in Reginam ; cujus regnum, the sea, though from certain circumstances ita ut dicam, in mea persona est exhiben- she is not able to be in your midst, takes dum atqne sustinendum. the deepest interest in your welfare, and " Quae ita sint, amici, quum omnia quae it is my duty from time to time to make bona, omnia quae culta, omnia quae honesta, her acquainted with the condition of her vos reperite, corripite, hac adolescentiae hora Indian subjects. If at any time they have occupate. Hinc vera virtute, vera sapientia, occasion to complain, or have any grievance vera fortudine imbuti, non solum vobismet to be redressed, they will always find in me ipsis sed etiam patriae tam vestrae quam a ready and willing channel through which meae praesidium et decus floreatis." their representations may be conveyed to the AT NEWMARKET. foot of the Throne. You have said in your [Delivered by His Excellency at the lay- address that the promises which your Great ing of the corner stone of the new Christian Mother, through the late Governors, made Church at Newmarket, on the ,25th July, to you have been faithfully fulfilled. I am in reply to an address read by the Rev. T. glad to think you so thoroughly comprehend Garbutt.] ?\ that there is no obligation which Her " Having spent the greater portion of my Majesty considers so sacred as the obliga life in a country which, whatever its other tion to keep faith with her Indian subjects "

52 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1874

Nothing would occasion us greater sorrow tion, to pronounce an opinion on the future than that we should have reason to think prospects of the country, yet any one who that our good faith and our fair word were has at all studied the economical phenomena not trusted, and that the Government of the which characterize the advances of civiliza- country had not the confidence of the Indian tion, cannot help being struck by the nations. I do not know that any paragraph immense natural advantages which surround of your address to which I have listened has the locality in which you have pitched your caused me a livelier joy than to hear that, tents. On the one side stretches away to a under the auspices of your missionaries, and great distance a water communication, the example of your chief, the young men navigable by steamers, which offers those of this nation have begun to understand how necessary facilities for the distribution of the terrible are the evils which result from an natural wealth of the country without which undue indulgence in intoxicating drinks. it would be comparatively valueless ; on the Let me assure them that if they wish to other there exists what may be called an secure happiness for themselves, for their ocean of timber land, ready to supply the wives and for their children, there is nothing inhabitants of Canada for another fifty years that is so certain to bring about such a result with the commodity which I regret to say than that they shall exercise self-restraint is rapidly failing in the more thickly popu- in this particular. Fire-water and intoxi- lated districts. Around me, on all sides, I cation are the root and source of every see the evident proof, not merely of industry, physical evil—almost every moral mis- but of that remarkable intelligence which " fortune. will enable you to extract from your labours AT BRACEBRIDGE. the most profitable returns. That you are [Delivered during his tour in Muskoka in loyal in your attachment to the Throne and July.] to the institutions of the Empire, is a charac- " It has been my good fortune to visit teristic you possess in common, I am happy many neighbourhoods that are beautiful and to say, with all your fellow-subjects from picturesque, and to make any comparison the Atlantic to the Pacific, and it affords would be perhaps invidious, but this, at all me, as the representative of Her Most events, I may say, the approach to your Gracious Majesty, singular satisfaction to town across the water of the lake, and of find in this most remote district a numerous the singularly beautiful and winding river population who are prepared to maintain by which we have ascended, has struck me unimpaired those rights and privileges of as much as anything I have seen in any freedom under whose protection and influ- part of Canada. I am sure that you are too ence the Dominion is year by year acquiring well acquainted with the habits of the Eng- greater strength, and a more extended em lish, and too alive to those sympathies which pire. prevail in England, not to be aware that AT CHICAGO. it is perhaps a weakness amongst us to look [Delivered in reply to an address from the back with pride and satisfaction to those Mayor and Corporation of Chicago on the ancestors from whom we are descended, and 16th of August.] who may have been in any way connected in " Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen, —When an honourable manner with the history of it was originally suggested to me that I our native land. But, although we can well should put in at Chicago during the course understand that the representative of a great of my cruise round those magnificent lakes English family may regard with pride the which are the joint property of Canada and fact that he can boast among his ancestors of the United States, it never occurred to some great lord who carved out for himself me that I should land upon your wharves in possessions with the sword, and founded a any other capacity than that of a private in- family, I confess that I myself would far dividual seeking information and pleasure rather be able to point out, among those from a visit to one of the most flourishing from whom I am descended, one who, like cities in the United States. The kind con- yourselves, in spite of many discouragements sideration which has prompted so magnifi- and great difficulties, having successfully cent a reception as that with which you have contended with the rigours of Nature, and all honoured the Countess of Dufferin and my- the embarrassments which attend the early self has, therefore, taken me by surprise. I settlement of a colony, has succeeded in can assure you I am deeply touched by the founding a community so prosperous as that expression of so much unaffected friendliness. by which I am now surrounded. Although Of course it is needless for me to assure you it might be presumptuous in a mere casual that with us, in England, Chicago has almost visitor, who can have formed but very hasty become a household word, not merely in con- conclusions from what may have caught his sequence of the terrible calamity which a few attention as he made his way in this direc- years since overwhelmed it—a calamity in "

1874 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 53

which the people of England most heartily sideration with which it has pleased you to sympathized with you—but as an evidence of welcome us to Chicago. what human intelligence and industry can [Delivered in reply to an address from the accomplish in converting the waste regions Board of Trade, presented in the Exchange of the earth into emporiums of wealth, com- Rooms on the 17th of August.] merce and architectural beauty. I am told " Gentlemen, —When I accepted the in- that ic was within the period of my own life- vitation which was so kindly addressed to time that Chicago first received her charter me by your President, I certainly was quite of incorporation, and nrpassing through your unprepared to find myself in thepresence of magnificent streets, unless that the fact had so large and so distinguished an audience, been conveyed to me on the best authority, or under the obligation to address you in a I confess I could scarcely have credited it. speech. At the same time, I do not like to I have been very much interested, Mr. content myself merely with a curt expres-

Mayor, in the account with which you have sion of my acknowledgments ; but I will been pleased to favour me of the character- try to express, not only on behalf of myself istics of those municipal institutions under and of those who accompany me, but on be- which this marvel has been accomplished, half of the people of Canada, our deep sense and it is a matter of satisfaction to me that of the friendliness and courtesy which is the secret of municipal government, which thus exhibited towards the person who ad- is one of the great safeguards of freedom, ministers the Government of the Dominion. and which was originally the fountain of I cannot help considering as a most striking political freedom, should have received so proof of the friendly feelings which I know successful a development in this country. are entertained towards British North Am- In Canada we are happily able to point to erica by the people of the United States, similar arrangements, and I confess that the fact that so large a concourse of citizens there is nothing in the social and political should have assembled on this occasion to institutions of that country which I regard support your President in welcoming the with greater admiration, or which I think is Governor-General of Canada. I feel, how more likely to secure the good government ever, that at this moment there is peculiar of the people at large, than the principle of propriety in my finding myself in such municipal government, applied to the very pleasant relations with the Board of Trade great extent to which the principle has been of Chicago. Chicago is the principal city of applied throughout the Dominion. It was, the United States, situated upon that great of course, with the greatest curiosity that I chain of lakes which are the common pro- looked forward to the pleasure of passing perty and joint pride of the people of Ame- through your magnificent streets, and of rica and of Canada. At this moment, as visiting those various other points of inte- you are aware, the Governments of our two rest to which you have alluded. I do not countries are engaged in considering a most know whether it may be known to any important question—as to whether or no it gentleman present that a great English might be possible to unite the interests of statesman, a friend of my own, and what is the two peoples into a closer connection by of more importance, a constant friend of the ties of fresh commercial intercourse. America, during every phase of her national That, of course, is a subject which must history, Mr. John Bright— (applanse)—wished have had special claims upon the attention to test the capacity of the rising generation of members of this Association. It would of English politicians, and the character of be out of place for me on the present occa- their education, by ascertaining whether or sion to refer in any particular manner to the no they possessed due and accurate informa- terms which have been already communicat- tion in regard to the condition of Chicago. ed to the American Senate as those upon That was a crucial test which he said he which the people of Canada would be dis- would seek to apply in the case of every can- posed to enter upon the reconstruction of didate for office, and he intimated that his the existing commercial arrangements be- opinion of their capacity would very much tween themselves and the United States. Of depend on their ability to answer it. Prob- course I am well aware that in the States, as ably no other city has ever had so great a well as in Canada, there are differences of compliment paid to it by a foreign statesman. opinion as to the policy of Free Trade versus In conclusion, Mr. Mayor and gentlemen, Protection. I do not imagine that in any I can only again thank you from the bottom country will there be found a perfectly una- of my heart, both on behalf of Lady Dufferin nimous coincidence of opinion upon these and myself, and on behalf of those who are much-disputed topics; but at all events this my fellow-travellers and fellow-visitors, for I may say, the Government of Great Britain the extreme kindness and thoughtful con- and the Government of Canada are generally anxious to promote whatever policy and ) "

54 THE SPEECHES OF THE 187* whatever arrangements are most likely to particuliere l'adresse que vous m'avez fait increase and develop those commercial rela- l'honneur de me presenter. Je *suis bien tions by which Canada and the United States convaincu que nulle part dans la Puissance are already brought so close to each other, Sa Majeste" n'a de sujets plus loyaux, and which, in our opinion at all events, can- plus tideles et plus intelligents que not be too much extended, and, if extended ses sujets de race francaise, et je me rejouis sufficiently, cannot fail to stimulate a friend- de l'occasion qui m'est donnee d'exprimer ly intercourse between the people. (Ap- mon estime et mon respect pour les repr6- plause.) In the policy which the Govern- sentants de ces heroiques pionniers, a la ment of Cauada has shown itself willing to hardiesse desquels nous devons, en si grande promote, I believe there existed but one mo- partie, l'heritage dont nous jouissons. tive, and that is the desire to come to an "C'est une chose des plus etonnantes que understanding with the Government of the ce coup-d'oeil avec lequel les chefs des United States, which shall be mutually ad- premieres expeditions francaises discernerent vantageous both to the peoDle of Canada comme par inspiration sur leur route chaque and to the people of the Uniied States. endroit avantageux, chaque position conven- I do not think that for one moment we have able, soit pour lenr defense soit pour leur imagined that in any agreement or treaty commerce. lis choisierent avec une telle which may be agreed upon that it would be sagacite les sites pour la construction de leurs either possible or desirable to make a one- forts, et pour la fondation de leurs etablisse- sided bargain. What we desire is fair and ments, que les generations suivantes ne equal dealing, and I believe you, gentlemen, purent faire de meilleurs choix. C'est pour are actuated by the same honourable senti- cela que presque chaque cite importante, ment. The Governor-General of Canada, dans les vallees du Mississippi et du St. who is the administrator of a Parliamentary Laurent, doit son origine a un jfondateur Government, is not in a position at any time francais. to express his own private sentiments upon " Mais ce n'est pas a ce seul titre que nous any political question. His opinions, so far sommes obliges envers la race francaise. II as he can officially announce them, are the ne faut pas oublier que c'est a son elevation opinions which are suggested to him by his d'esprit, a son amour de la liberte, et a son responsible advisers, and the policy which exacte appreciation des droits civils contenus he at any time is authorized to advocate is sn germe dans la constitution primitivement the policy which is inaugurated by his Min- accordee par l'Angleterre au Canada, que isters. It would not be, therefore, proper nous devons le develpopement de cette auto- for me to intrude on this occasion upon this nomic parlementaire dont le pays est tier a

assemblage my own private opinion in re- si bon droit ; et je puis vous assurer, qu'aux spect to this most important topic. I will yeux d'un anglais, il y a peu de choses simply content myself with saying that both plus agreables a observer que la dig- in my private and my public capacity it will nite, la moderation, et l'habilete politique always be my most earnest object, and one avec lesquelles les hommes publics francais, of the dearest motives of my ambition, to du Canada, aident leurs coliegues anglais a do everything in my power which will in appliquer et a faire fonctionner ces grands any way promote and extend good feeling principes de droit et de pratique constitu- between the people of the United States tionals, qui sont la base du gouvernement and the inhabitants of Canada. (Applause.) libre de ce pays. In conclusion, gentlemen, allow me to ex- " Messieurs, j'aitoujours consider comme press to you, as well as I can under the very du meilleur augure la collaboration de la

unfavourable conditions under which I am race francaise dans le Canada ; cette race qui called upon to address you, both on my own a deja contribue si puissamment a civiliser behalf and on behalf of the Countess of l'Europe, ne peut manquer de suppieer et de DufFerin, my deep sense of the great honour corriger de la facon la plus heureuse les which you have done me in coming together qualitcs et les defauts considers comme in-

this morning in such large numbers, in herents au John Bull traditionnel : d'un receiving me with so much kindness and autre cdte on me pardounera, si, coin me courtesy, and in listening to my few and anglais, j'espere que nous pourrons lui rendre imperfect observations with so much pa- la meme service. Avec lagenerosite, l'esprit tience and indulgence." (Applause and d'invention, l'elan, la grace, la delicatesse, cheers. laprecisiondu jugementet la finesse artistique AT WINDSOR. des francais, avec le flegme et le temperam- [Delivered other dire que nous among speeches in reply ment britanniques, on | peut to that of the St. Jean Baptiste Society, on reunissons les elements qui gouvernent en the 19th August.] grande partie le monde moral et le monde "J'ai ecoute" avec une satisfaction toute physique. )

1874 EARL OF DUFFERIIS 55

AT DETROIT. upon which Canadians more surely count [Delivered in reply to an address from the than the goodwill, sympathy and encourage- Mayor and Corporation of that city on the ment of the people of the United States on

19th of August. ] that subject. (Hear, hear and applause.) "Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen, — As you are aware, and as has been rao^t I am sure it will surprise no one present if justly observed by the gentleman who has he should perceive that I am perfectly in- spoken in your behalf, the commercial in- capable of rendering an adequate return to terests of Canada and of the United States the citizens of Detroit for the honour they are inseparably united. At this moment it have done me, and for the reception with is a matter under the consideration of the which I have been honoured. I confess that two Governments whether they cannot even the kindness and hospitality I have received, be drawn into closer harmony, and if, as a conveyed in a manner so delicate and so consequence of such result, the friendship agreeable to my feelings, has completely between Canada and the United States be taken me by surprise ; nor am I prepared on thereby increased, all I can say is, that out the present occasion to express to you in any of the arrangements no result can come way which will satisfy me how deeply I which would be more cordially welcome or have been touched by the kindness I have would be more agreeable to the peo- received. At the same time, I feel it would ple of England. (Applause.) The good be ungracious on my part did I not endea- understanding between Canada and America vour, however humbly, to make you under- is considered in England as a happy and for- stand that it is not from any want of appre- tunate circumstance. (Applause.) As I ciation that I fail to record the sentiments of said before, I knew I should fail to ade- which I am conscious. (Applause.) And, quately express all I feel on this occasion, gentlemen, the gratitude which I feel is all butj! am sure there is not one will leave the the deeper, because I perfectly understand room without understanding that the iew that the demonstration which has taken words I have thus spoken are a genuine ex- place has been addressed, not so much to pression of my most inmost sentiments, and the humble individual who stands before that, so long as I live, the magnificent spec- you, as to the representative of a truly tacle which has been exhibited to my eyes friendly Power,and to the Governor-General to-day, as the procession which has been of that rising nation that stretches along organized in my honour passed through your your banks, from ocean to ocean, and whose beautiful streets, will be one of the dearest hopes and interests, as well as whose com- and most agreeable recollections of my entire mercial ties are so closely amalgamated with life. I indeed congratulate you on being your own. (Loud applause.) Gentlemen, citizens of your beautiful city—I congratu- when I came to Canada, and when it became late you upon the fact that the foundations my business to acquaint myself with the in- of your prosperity are placed on so secure a most sentiments of the people, there was no- basis as you observe they are—I congratu- thing which struck me so forcibly as the late you upon those various natm-al advan- genuine admiration and respect, and I think tages with which Providence has blessed I might say affection, with which the people you, and, above all, I congratulate you upon of Canada regarded the people of the United that feeling of just pride which you States. (Applause.) Gentlemen, of course entertain for the institutions of your I came to Canada as an officer of the British county, and for the nation's soil of which Government, as a servant of the British you are such worthy inhabitants. (Applause.) Queen, and was bound therefore to promote Within a few short years England and and maintain the connection between Can- America have given an example to the world ada and the Mother Country, which I be- of what nature can do to remove those diffi- lieve the inhabitants of both countries con- culties which from time to time necessarily sider to be of equal advantage to each other, intervene and draw a cloud between friendly and there was nothing which more satisfied peoples. They have show n that, by mutual me as to the absence of all difficulties in that forbearance, by mutual respect, by a deter- respect than the observation of how heartily mination to seek nothing but what is just was the esteem felt by Canada for the United and honourable from each other, that diffi- States, and how compatible it was with the culties of the gravest character—difficulties most perfect contentment. Gentlemen, I which in less wise ages might have pro- believe that upon the part of the United duced lamentable results, can be.obliterated States is a generous sympathy with Canada —can be completely obliterated—and leave in her endeavour to work out her own future, those between whom they occurred more to extend the foundations of her prosperity, closely locked than ever in the bonds of and to pursue that honourable career upon mutual friendship." (Loud and prolonged which she has embarked. There is nothing applause. 56 THE SPEECHES OF THE J874

AT SARNIA. satisfied with the Government under which

[Delivered in reply to an address from the they lived ; that year after year they would Munsee Indians on the 20th of August.] learn better and better, by industry, by at- His Excellency said that'among the many tention to their duties, and by those labours pleasures which he had enjoyed during his from which no one. rich or poor, was ever

present tour, few of them were to be com- exempt in this world, they would join wi i pared with that which he experienced in their white fellow-subjects in helping to finding himself face to face with the intelli- build up the Dominion of Canada. gent, well-educated, well-dressed represen- AT GODERICH. tatives of the Indian community iu this [Delivered on the occasion of a visit to the neighbourhood. Coming as he did from the International Salt Woj ks on August 21.] distant West, and from interviews with " I have derived the greatest pleasure and their Indian fellow-subjects, who unfortu- instruction from my visit to these works. nately, from their remote position, had not It is the first occasion in my life that I have yet been able to share those advantages had an opportunity of acquainting myself which the Indians of this locality enjoyed, by actual inspection with the manner in he was sensibly struck by the wonderfully which salt is prepared for the market, and I improved condition of the latter. He am glad to think that, thanks to the bounty was proud to think that, thanks to the wis- of Providence, underneath our feet there dom of the British Government, such marks should be what appears to be an inexhaus- of advancement and improvement should be tible supply of that article, and that, too, seen among them. He declared himself of the finest quality, and so situated as to fully sensible of the obligation which rested be readily and easily obtained. I am still upon the white people to use their utmost better pleased to think that this Company, endeavours to promote the welfare and notwithstanding these invidious restrictions guard the rights of the Indian tribes, and which are imposed, should still find them- expressed his pleasure at the fact of all the selves in a position to trade with the United Indians present being able to converse with States. With respect to any possible future him in the English language. He was glad alterations in the tariff which might render to think they were sensible of the benefits the trade in salt between this country and which had been conferred upon them by the United States freer than at present, I

those good and Christian men who had sown , can only say that I shall only be too glad amongst them the truths of religion, both by if the wishes of the gentlemen connected means of the Bible and by their own noble ex- with this interest should be gratified in that amples. Ho spoke of having, during his respect. (Applause.) If every individual tour, made the acquaintance of a tribe of interest in Canada could be accommodated, Indians to whom, unfortunately, the glad it would be a matter of gratification to the words of the Gospel could scarcely have Government. I am afraid, however, that as been preached yet. He remarked that, in I pursue my progress through other portions contrasting the condition of those people of the country, I may meet with interests with the condition of the Indians before him. which would not be disposed to entertain he could not fail to be struck with the im- exactly the same opinion as that which I mensely beneficial results which flowed from heard fall from the lips of your President religion going hand in hand with civiliza- to-day. If I do meet gentlemen ex- tion. With reference to the allusion which pressing opinions different from these, my had been made in some of the addresses to reply will be that I should, of course, be questions affecting certain rights depending very glad if their views could also be on ancient treaties, he said that, of course, furthered. (Laughter.) As far as the poli- it was not desirable for him to enter upon tical aspects of the question are concerned, the present occasion into a consideration of I am afraid I must refer you to my respon- these, but he assured them—and this, he sible advisers." (Laughter.) said, must be his answer to all representa- AT BERLIN. tions of that nature—that no petition was [Delivered in reply to an address from the ever addressed to him as the representative of citizens on the 22nd of August.] the Crown, by any of Her Majesty's Indian " Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen, —Among subjects, without his feeling it his duty to in- the many pleasurable visits which it has stitute enquiries iu regard to the statements been my good fortune to make during the it contained,, and under the advice of his course of my present tour, I can conscien- responsible Ministers to do whatever might siously say that there has been none which be thought desirable under the circum- has given me greater pleasure th,an tha stances of each particular case. He wished which I am now paying. It is a matter of them all happiness and prosperity, and pride to me, as an Englishman, that in my

trusted that they would continue to be capacity as ^ representative of the British )

1874 EARL OF DUFFEMN. 57

Queen I should have the honour of address- that high tone of moral feeling, for that

ing a German audience. (Applause.) It is i delicacy of sentiment, and for that freedom needless for me to assure you that I, in coin from whatever is meretricious, frivolous and mon with all your other British fellow sub base, which more than anything else are the J essentials jests, am prepared to recognize you as fel of a nation's glory. (Applause. ( low-citizens with the utmost cordiality and And I am inclined to insist the more affection. I believe that in saying this I am strongly upon this point because we must accurately expressing the general feeling of all be aware that female education is a sub- the British section and of every other sec- ject with respect to which we are liable to tion of the Canadian people, who all recog- fall into error, and over which it is therefore nize in the German element a contribution of incumbent for the people of Canada to watch strength to our national Constitution, and a with the greatest jealousy and attention. population who, by their thrifty habits, by In Canada, as in every new country, there their hereditary intelligence, by their in- are, of course, circumstances and consider- dustry, sobriety and general good conduct, ations which in some degree militate against are likely to aid most powerfully in fur- that which ought to be the leading and thering the prosperity of our common coun- principal feature of all education—namely, try. (Cheers.) Gentlemen, it has been my its domesticity. In a newly settled country, privilege to reside for a considerable period where the scattered habitations militate in your Fatherland, and I have had the ho- against education, and where even in towns a nour of receiving many marks of kindness very considerable number of the inhabitants and goodwill at the hands of that august are driven to live less in private than is the Emperor under whose beneficent sway Ger- custom in Europe, it is of course more diffi- many has become united. (Applause. ) And cult to maintain unimpaired those home in-

I it may be a satisfaction to you to know that fluences which are so essential, especially in Ijshall consider it my duty, in communicat- the training of young girls. Now, I con- ing from time to time, through the proper fess that I am strongly of opinion that we channels, my impressions as to the condition cannot keep our girls too long from coming of the Dominion, to take care that the Go- out into the world, and becoming young vernment of Germany understand that her ladies. (Applause.) In other countries we children in this country are contented with sometimes see the contrary occur more the land of their adoption, and that, although frequently than is to be wished, but I they regard with undiminished affection the am hopeful that in Canada we are traditions of their forefathers, they are per- so convinced of the desirability of maintain- fectly contented to find themselves under ing amongst us simplicity of manners, British rule, and in the enjoyment of the simplicity of dress— (hear, hear)- simplicity liberties secured to them by the British of thought and feeling— (applause)—that we Constitution. (Applause.) Gentlemen, I are determined to prevent the youthful believe that under no Government, and in members of our families from becoming pre- no country, are popular rights and those maturely sophisticated. (Applause and principles of true liberty better combined laughter. ) Even if we middle-aged men can with the administration of order than Under carry into the occupations of our mature the Constitution under which you live. years the freshness, the liveliness, and the (Hear, hear. ) I am sure there is not a per- innocence of boyhood, we feel it to be so son in this vast assembly who does not feel much gained. (Applause.) And this truth, that under Parliamentary Government his of course, is infinitely more applicable to ^'oice is duly heard—that his rights as a those who are to be the ornaments of our freeman are respected, and that his mate- houses and the mothers of our children. rial interests are adequately subserved." (Applause.) However, it would be pre- (Cheers.) sumptuous in me to do more than AT BRANTFORD, simply glance at these topics. I am sure that every experienced person pre- [Delivered in reply to an address from the sent will be able to gather from what I have President and Directors of the Young Ladies' said the full meaning I desire to convey, and College on the 24th of August. ] that that freshness and that simplicity which " There are few subjects which present I am proud to think are among the noble greater interest to Lady"Dufferin and myself characteristics which distinguish the Cana- than that of education, especially the educa- dian people at large will also long be main- tion of the female portion of the leading tained, the prominent attribute of the man- classes of Canada, as it is so intimately con- ners and of the tone of thought and feeling nected with the future fortunes and status of of our woman-kind. " (Great and continued this country, because it is on the proper edu- applause. cation of our girls that we must depend for 58 THE SPEECH^ °F THE

AT TUSCARORA. equal anxiety upon your assistance in those [Delivered in reply to the address of the peaceful efforts to which the people of Can- Six Nations on the 25th of August.] ada are now devoted, or that we fail to value " Chiefs, Councilmen, and Young Men of I you as faithful and industrious coadjutors in Nations, I desire to express the Six — to you I the task we have undertaken of building the pleasure which I derive from my visit to the Dominion of into prosper- | up Canada a your settlement and from the eloquent ad- ous, rich, and contented nation. During my dresses with which I have been honoured. I recent visit to the westward I came into have long looked forward to this expedition contact with other tribes of Indians who with the greatest impatience, for you must un- were, unfortunately, less happily circum- derstand that it is no idle curiosity which stanced than yourselves, inasmuch as, in- brings me hither, but that when the Gover- habiting a more distant region than you, nor General and the representative of your they have not had an opportunity of acquir- Great Mother comes among you it is a ing those habits of civilization which you genuine sign of the interest which the Impe- have so readily adopted, and of which the rial Government and the Government of beneficent efforts are apparent in the com- Canada take in your welfare, and of their parison of the scene before me and the ap- desire to show that your interests and your pearance presented by those Indian tribes to happiness are as much a matter of solicitude whom I refer. For although, like your- to them as are those of the rest of your fellow selves, they are animated with loyal feelings citizens. Neither must you suppose that I towards your Great Mother and firmly at- am ignorant of those claims upon the tached to the Government of the British gratitude and affection of the English na- Crown, they were in every way inferior to tion which you possess. I am well aware you in physical appearance, in their habits of that in ancient times, when there was war life, and in their material comforts. It is to between the early French colonizers of Ca- be hoped that in the course of time a more nada and the early English colonists of the settled mode of existence will gradually be lower States, you were always a friendly extended among all the Indian subjects of people to the English Crown, and that in the Canadian Government, but at the same later days, when differences arose between time I wish it to be understood that our ancestors and the ancestors of the pre- it is by no means the desire of sent inhabitants of the United States—dif- the Government unduly to press ferences which I am glad to say have long upon its Indian subjects a premature or vio- since been buried in oblivion by both parties lent change in their established habits. To —it was on the bravery in arms and on the have done this would have been, in my fidelity )f your grandfathers that the Crown opinion, a <*reat mistake. I believe that one of England then relied. The memory of chief reason why the Government of Canada these transactions I can assure you shall never has been so pre-eminently successful in be allowed to pass away; and although you maintaining the happiest and most affec- have ceased to be the warlike allies of Great tionate relations with the vaiious Indian Britain, we are still proud to hail you as its nations with whom it has had to deal, has pacific and contented subjects. You could been that it has recognized the rights of not have a greater proof that the memories those people to live according to their own of the ancient ties which bound the Six Na- notions of what is fittest for their happiness, tions and the English people together have and most suitable for the peculiar circum- not been forgotten than the fact that one of stances in which they are placed. I am glad the principal towns in Ontario has been call- to think that in doing so they have already ed after that glorious chieftain Tyendinaga, begun to reap the fruits of their forbearance of whom you are so justly proud, and in the and good sense, and that from ocean to next place than by the manner in which ocean, amidst every tribe of Iudians, the those treaties and reservations which, in con- name of Canada is synonymous with human- sideration of their services, were made in ity, with good faith, and with benevolent your favour, have been observed and main- treatment. I am very pleased to see tained. There is no part of your address amongst those who have assembled to wel- which has given me greater pleasure than come me many members of your families ar- that in which you acknowledge that the rayed in the ancient dress of the Indian British Crown has kept faith with its Indian nationality; for I certainly am of opinion subjects, and that you and all the members that it is wise of you to take a just and of the Six Nations have confidence in the patriotic pride in those characteristics of word of the British Government. Although your past history which, being innocent in the days are happily past in which we need- themselves, will serve to remind you of your ed your assistance on the battle field, you forefathers, and of the antecedents of your must not suppose that we do not count with various tribes, and will add colour and in- —

1874 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 59 terest to your existence as a distinct nation- passage through your domain we encoun- ality, so happily incorporated with the Bri- tered Indian bands of music, all of them tish Empire. We see that'those of French, playing the hymn in honour of the Queen English, Irish, and Scotch origin who have On arriving at your Council House our path settled in Canada, however closely united to the dais was strewn with flowers, and we they may be in their present interests, and found ourselves accommodated in that tra- in a common patriotism to the land of their ditional arbour in which from time imme- adoption, still rejoice in those innocent morial the Indian tribes have been accus- celebrations which recall the memories of the tomed to greet their guests. In return, let various sources from which their parentage me assure you that so long as I administer is derived, and I trust that the Indian sub- the government of this country every In- jects of Her Majesty will always take a simi- dian subject, no matter what his tribe, what lar pride in preserving intact, from genera- his nation, or what his religion, will find in tion to generation, the distinctive attributes me/ a faithful friend end sure protector, of their national circumstances. And now (applause)—and that in undertaking this I trust you will forgive me if, standing in office I am but representing the wishes of the the relation to you of the representative of Local Canadian Government and following, your Great Mother, I venture to utter a few the instructions of the Imperial authorities. words of advice. In the first place, let me The people of Canada and the people of entreat you, with all the earnestness I can, to Britain will not cease to recognize those ob- devote all the energies which you possess to ligations which have been imposed upon the improvement of your agriculture. Of them by the hand of Providence towards course lam well aware that a nation of hun- their Indian fellow-subjects, and never shall ters cannot be expected even in one or two the word of Britain once pledged be broken, generations so completely to change those but from one end of the Dominion to the habits which are engraven into their very other every Indian subject shall be made to nature as to rise to a level with other com- feel that he enjoys the rights of a freeman, muuities who have followed the occupation and that he can with confidence appeal to of agriculture for thousands of years. Still the British Crown for protection." you must remember that, making every al- AT WOODSTOCK. lowance which can justly be demanded on [Delivered in reply to an address from the your behalf, on that score, there is room for Mayor and Corporation of the town of Wood- still further improvements, and in the stock on the 26th of August.] course of the next generation the Govern- "Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen,—lam glad ment of the country ?and your fellow-sub- to find myself for the second time in my jects will expect that you will compete with life in Woodstock, and I am still more glad them on more equal terms than you are able to think that my visit will be sufficiently to do at present in all those arts of peace, prolonged to enable me to make a better whether of agriculture or of mechanics, which acquaintance with the town and its inhabi- it is'necessary to cultivate for the purposes of tants than on the first occasion. I thank your own support, and in the interests of you very heartily for the patriotic and loyal your common country. In the next place actress which you have presented to me, and and now I am addressing myself to the young I assure you that there is no feeling by men of the nation, because I feel it is scarce- which the Canadian people are animated ly necessary that I should give any recom- with which I sympathize more than in their mendation to their fathers— let me recom- desire to build up their country into a dis- meudyou to avoid all excess in intoxicating tinct, prosperous, and respected nationality. liquors as if they were so much poison, as if As the representative of Her Majesty the it were the destrnctioh of the happiness of Queen, and an officer of the Imperial Gov- your homes, of your health, of your energy, ernment, it "is of course one of my principal of everything which you hold dear, as hon- duties to strengthen by every means in my ourable and right-minded men. It only re- power those ties of affection by which the mains for me to thank you from the very inhabitants of the Dominion are bound to bottom of my heart for the kindly welcome the connection with the Mother Country. which you have given me, for the pains you You must not, however, imagine that upon have taken to make my visit agreeable, for that account I regard with any other feeling the evidences which you haue exhibited of than that of the utmost sympathy the spirit your loyalty to your Great Mother, and for of loyal patriotism which I am proud to your friendly feelings towards myself and the think is day by day being more strongly de- Countess of Dufferin. On entering the In- veloped from one end of the Dominion dian Reserve we passed through an arch to the other. I do not think the Canadian which was beautifully constructed and de - people would be loyal to the Empire unless corated with appropriate emblems. On our they were also able to be equally loyal to ) )

60 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1874

their own country, to be proud of the fact that is most distinguished in the various that they are Canadians, to believe in the schools of political thought in Canada. It destinies which are in store for them, and to is but a few short weeks since I left Toronto, be able to look forward with confidence to and yet I question whether many born the task which has been imposed upon them Canadians have ever seen or learnt more of by Providence, and entrusted to them by the western half of the Dominion than I

the Mother Country, of becoming a glorious have during that brief'period. ( Hear, hear. adjunct of the British Empire, affording an Memory itself scarcely suffices to reflect the example to the Continent of America of shifting vision of mountain, wood and what can be done under British institutions water, inland seas and silver rolling rivers, when they are supplemented by a spirit of golden corn-lands and busy prosperous noble and patriotic independence. In con- towns, through which we have held our

clusion, allow me to thank you for those ex- way ; but though the mind's eye fail ever pressions in your address of kindness and again to re-adjust the dazzling panorama, goodwill to myself. I only desire to be a as long as life endures not a single echo of faithful servant of the Queen and a genuine the universal greeting with which we have friend of the Canadian people — (cheers) —and been welcomed will be hushed within our I neither for to hearts. 4wish nor do I look forward (Great applause.) Yet deeply as I any other reward than that of carrying home am sensible of the personal kindnesses of with me the conviction that as long as I live which I have been the recipient, proud as I I may be able to boast of having always feel of the honour done to my office, moved maintained friendly and affectionate relations as I have been by the devoted affection with that noble community in whose midst shown for our Queen and for our common for a few years my lot has been cast." country, no one is more aware than myself (Cheers.) of the imperfect return I have made to the AT THOROLD. generous enthusiasm which has been evoked. [The following remark occurs in a reply to If, then, gentlemen, I now fail to respond in an address of the Council, delivered on the suitable terms to the toast you have drunk, 29th of August.] if in my hurried replies to the innumerable " During his present tour he had visited addresses with which I have been honoured, the distant waters of Lake Superior, and an occasional indiscreet or ill-considered had arrived at the conclusion that no reason- phrase should have escaped my lips, I know able man could doubt but that within a very that your kindness will supply my short- few years the industry and energy of the comings—that naught will be set down in Canadian people would have conducted the malice—and that an indulgent construction water-ways of the Atlantic to the head of will be put upon my hasty sentences. Lake Superior. (Applause.) Neither was (Cheers.) But, gentlemen, though the lan- it possible to overrate the consequences guage of gratitude may fail, the theme itself which would flow from these great works. supplies me with that of congratulate n, for No one could look upon the navigation of never has the head of any Government pass- the northern parts of North America with- ed through a land so replete with content- out perceiving that the River St. Lawrence ment in the present, so pregnant with pro- and the chain of lakes which empty their mise in the future. (Cheens.) From the waters into it are destined to be the high northern forest border lands, whose primeval recesses road along which all the productions, not are being pierced and k ndented by only of the Canadian North- West, but also the rough and ready cultivation of the free of the northern valleys of the Mississippi grant settler, to the trim enclosures and and its tributaries would pass. " (Cheers. wheat-laden townships that smile along the AT THE TORONTO CLUB DINNER. lakes, —from the orchards of Niagara to the [Delivered on the evening of the 2nd of hunting grounds of Nepigon, —in the September, in reply to the toast of his wigwam of the Indian, in the homestead of health, which was proposed by the late the farmer, in the workshop of the artisan, in office his -everywhere John Hillyard Cameron. ] the of employer- " Mr. Cameron and Gentlemen,—I can- have I learnt that the people are satisfied not but consider it a very happy circum- (applause) —satisfied with their own indivi- stance that one of the most gratifying pro- dual prospects and with the pros- gresses ever made by a representative of the pects of their country, (applause) — Queen through any portion of the British satisfied with their Government, and with Empire should find its appropriate close in the institutions under which they prosper this cordial and splendid reception, at the (applause)—satisfied to be the subjects of the hands of a Society of gentlemen which, Queen (tremendous applause) —satisfied to though non-political in its corporate charac- be members of the British Empire. (Re- ter, is so thoroughly representative of all newed applause.) Indeed I cannot help a

1874 EARL OF DUFFERIN 61

thinking that, quite apart from the advan- passionate loyalty everywhere evinced to- tages to myself, my yearly journeys through wards the person and the throne of Queen the Provinces will have been of public bene- Victoria. (Great cheering.) Wherever I have gone, in fit, as exemplifying with what spontaneous, the crowded cities, in the re- unconcerted unanimity of language the mote hamlet, the affection of the people for entire Dominion has declared its faith in it- their Sovereign has' been blazoned forth self, in its destiny, in its connection with against the summer sky by every device the Mother Country, and in the well ordered which art could fashion or ingenuity invent. freedom of a Constitutional Monarchy. (Ap- (Cheers. ) Even in, the wilds and deserts of plause.) And, gentlemen, it is this very the land, the most secluded and untutored combination of sentiments which appears to settler would hoist some cloth or rag above me so wholesome and satisfactory. Words his shanty, and starlle the solitudes of cannot express what pride I feel as an Eng- the forest with a shot from his rusty fire- lishman in the loyalty of Canada to Eng- lock and a lusty cheer from himself and land. (Hear, hear.) Nevertheless, I should his children in glad allegiance to his coun- be the first to deplore this feeling if it ren- try's Queen. (Applause.) Even the Indian dered Canada disloyal to herself—if it either in his forest, or on his reserve, would mar- dwarfed or smothered Canadian patriotism, shal forth his picturesque symbols of fidelity or generated a sickly spirit of dependence. in grateful recognition of a Govern- Such, however, is far from being the case. ment that never broke a treaty or The legislation of your Parliament, the atti- falsified its plighted word to the tude of your statesmen, the language of your red man—(great applause)—or failed to press, sufficiently show how firmly and in- evince for the ancient children of the soil a telligently you are prepared to accept and wise and conscientious solicitude. (Renew-

apply the almost unlimited legislative facul- ed applause and cheers. ) Yet touching as ties with which you have been endowed were the exhibitions of so much generous (hear, hear) —while the daily growing dispo- feeling, I could scarcely have found pleasure sition to extinguish sectional jealousies and in them had they merely been the expres- to ignore an obsolete provincialism proves sions of a traditional habit or of a conven- how strongly the young heart of your con- tional sentimentality. No, gentlemen, they federated commonwealth has begun to throb sprang from a far more genuine and vital

with the consciousness of its nationalized source. (Cheers. ) The Canadians are loyal existence. (Great cheering.) At this mo- to Queen Victoria, in the first place because ment not a shilling of British money finds its they honour and love her for her personal way to Canada ; the interference of the qualities— (cheers). —for her life-long devo- Home Government with the domestic affairs tion to her duties— (cheers), —for her faith- of the Dominion has ceased, while the Im- ful observance of all the obligations of a constitutional perial relations between the two countries monarch—(cheers) ; —and, in are regulated by a spirit of such mutual de- the next place, they revere her as the symbol ference, forbearance, and moderation, as re- representative of as glorious a national life, flects the greatest credit upon the statesmen of as satisfactory a form of government, as of both. (Hear, hear. ) Yet, so far from any country in the world can point to— this gift of autonomy having brought about national life, illustrious through a thousand any divergence of aim or aspiration on years with the achievements of patriots, either side, every reader of our annals must statesmen, warriors, and scholars— (great be aware that the sentiments of Canada to- cheers)—a form of government which more wards Great Britain are infinitely more perfectly than any other combines the ele- friendly now than in those earlier days when ment of stability with a complete recogni- the political intercourse of the two countries tion of popular rights, and insures by its vvas disturbed and complicated by an exces- social accessories, so far as is compatible

sive and untoward tutelage, (cheers) ; that with the imperfections of human nature, a never was Canada more united than at pre- lofty standard of obligation and simplicity sent in sympathy of purpose and unity of of manners in the classes that regulate the interest with the Mother Country, more at general tone of our civil intercourse. one with her in social habits and tone of (Cheers.) On my way across the lakes I thought, more proud of her claim to share called in at the city of Chicago—a city in the heritage of England's past, more ready which has again risen more splendid than to accept whatever obligations may be im- ever from her ashes—and at Detroit, the posed upon her by her partnership in the home of one of the most prosperous and in- future fortunes of the Empire. (Tremen- telligent communities on this continent. At duous applause.) Again, nothing in my recent both these places I was received with the journey has been more striking, nothing utmost kindness and courtesy by the civil indeed has been more affecting, than the authorities and by the citizens themselves, — —);

62 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1874

who vied with each other in making me feel I for such things can be—(laughter)—by an- with how friendly an interest that great and other officer more competent to his duties, have advanced the without the slightest hitch or disturbance fenerous people who | Tinted States to so splendid a position in having been occasioned in the orderly march tin: family of nations, regard their Canadian I of your affiirs. (Applause.) If then the neighbours ; but, though disposed to watch Canadian people are loyal to the Crown, it is with genuine admiration and sympathy the With a reasoning loyalty. (Applause.) It development of our Dominion into a great is because they are able to appreciate the power, our friends across the line are wont, advantage of having inherited a constitu- as you know, to amuse their lighter mo- tional system so workable, so well balanced, meuts with the ' large utterances of the and so peculiarly adapted to their own early gods.' (Laughter.) More than once especial wants. (Applause.) If to these I was addressed with the playful suggestion constitutional advantages we add the bless- that Canada should unite her fortunes with ing of a judiciary not chosen by a capricious those of the Great Republic. (Laughter.) method of popular election, but selected for To these invitations I invariably replied by their ability and professional standing by re- acquainting them that in Canada we were sponsible Ministers, and aHke independent essentially a democratic people— (great laugh- of popular favour and political influences ter) ; that not i ling would content us uidess (hear, hear) —a civil service whose rights of the popular will could exercise an immediate permanency both the great political parties and complete control over the Executive of of the country have agreed to recognize the country—(renewed laughter) —that the (applause)—and consequently a civil service Ministers who conducted the Government free from partizanship, and disposed to make were but a Committee of Parliament, which the service of the State rather than that of was itself an emanation from the constituen- party their chief object—(hear, hear)—an cies— (loud applause)—and that no Canadian electoral system purged of corruption by the would be able to breathe freely if he thought joint action of the ballot and the newly -con- that the persons administering the affairs of stituted courts for the trial of bribery— (ap- his country were removed beyond the super- plause) ; —a population hardy, thrifty and vision and contact of our legislative assem- industrious, sunpie in their manners, sober blies. (Hear, hear, cheers and laughter.) in mind, God-fearing in their lives— (cheers) And, gentlemen, in this extemporized re- —and lastly, an almost unlimited breadth of partee of mine—(laughter)—there will be teriitory, replete with agricultural and found, I think, a germ of sound philosophy. mineral resources, it may be fairly said that In fact, it appears to me that even from the Canada sets forth upon her enviable career point of view of the most enthusiastic advo- under as safe, sound, and solid auspices as cate of popular rights, the Government of any State whose bark has been committed

Cauada is nearly perfect ; for while you are to the stream of Time. (Great cheering. free from those historical complications which The only thing still wanted is to man the sometimes clog the free running of our Par- ship with a more numerous crew. From the liamentary machinery at home, while you extraordinary number of babies I have seen possess every popular guarantee and privi- at every window and at every cottage door lege that reason can demand—(hear, hear) (laughter and applause)—native energy and you have an additional element of elasticity talent appears to be rapidly supplying this introduced into your system in the person defect—(laughter) ; —still it is a branch of of the Governor-General ; for—as I have had industry in which the home manufacturer occasion to remark elsewhere—in most has no occasion to dread foreign competition forms of government, should a misunder- — (great laughter) —and Canadians can well standing occur between the head of the State afford to share their fair inheritance with and the representatives of the people, a dead- the straitened sons of toil at home. When lock might ensue of a very giave character, crossing the Atlantic to take up the govern- inasmuch as there would be no power of ap- ment of this country, I found myself the peal to a third party—and deadlocks are the fellow-passenger of several hundred emi- dangers of all constitutional systems grants. As soon as they had recovered from whereas in Canada, should the Governor- the effect of sea- sickness the captain of the General and his Legislature unhappily dis- ship assembled these persons in the hold, and agree, the misunderstanding is referred to invited the Canadian gentlemen on board to England as "amicus curice," whose only give them any information in regard to t^eir object, of course, is to give free play to your adopted country which might seem Parliamentary institutions, whose interven- useful. Some of the emigrants began tion can be relied upon as impartial and asking questions, and one man pre- benevolent, and who would immediately re- faced his remarks by saying that "he had place an errmg or impracticable Viceroy the misfortune of having too many children.' ) )

1874 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 63

Being called upon in my turn to address the vations most severe ; but the language of all company, I alluded to this phrase, which was identical, evincing without exception had grated harshly on my ears, and remarked pride in the past, content with the present, that perhaps no better idea could be given hope in the future (cheers); while, com- of the differences between the old country bined with the satisfaction each man felt in and their new home than by the fact that his own success and the improved prospects whereas in England a struggling man might of his family, there shone another and even be overweighted in the battle of life by a a nobler feeling—namely, the delight inspired numerous family, in the land to which they by the consciousness of being a co- were going a man could scarcely have too efficient unit in a visibly prosperous many children. (Cheers and laughter.) community, to whose prosperity he Upon which I was greeted with an approving was himself contributing. (Hear, hear, thump on the back by a stalwart young emi- and cheers.) Of course these people grant, who cried out, 'Right you are, sir; could never have attained the position in that's what I've been telling Emily.' (Laugh- which I found them without ti emend ous ex-

ter. ) Indeed, for many years past I have been ertions. Probably the agricultural labourer a strong advocate of emigration in the inte- who comes to this country from Norfolk or rests of the British population. I believe that Dorsetshire will have to work a great deal emigration is a benefit both to those that go harder than ever he worked in his life before, and to those that remain, at the same time but if his work is harder he will find a that it is the most effectual and legitimate sweetener to his toil of which he could never weapon with which labour can contend with have dreamt in the old country—namely, the capital. I have written a book upon the prospect of independence, of a roof over his subject, and have been very much scolded head for which he shall pay no rent, and of for wishing to depopulate my native coun- ripening corn fields round his homestead

try ; but however strong an advocate of which own no master but himself. (Tremen- emigration from the English standpoint, I dous applause.) Let a man be sober, healthy,

am of course a thousandfold more interested and industrious ; let him come out at a pro- in the subject as the head cf the Canadian per time of the year; let him be content with Government. (Applause.) Of course I am small beginnings and not afraid of hard work, not in a position, nor is it desirable that I and I can scarcely conceive how he should should take the responsibility of saying any- fail in his career. (Long-continued applause. thing on this occasion which should expose Gentlemen, I have been tempted by the in- me hereafter to the reproach of having terest of the subject to trespass far too long, drawn a false picture or given delusive in- I fear, upon your indulgence (no, no), but I formation in regard to the piospects and felt that perhaps I could not make a more opportunities afforded by Canada to the in- appropriate return for the honour you have intending settler. (Applause.) The subject done me than by frankly mentioning to you is so serious a one—so much depends upon the impression left on my mind during my the individual training, capacity, health, recent journeys. (Hear, hear.) It now only conduct, and antecedents of each several remains for me to thank you again most emigrant, that no one without an intimate heartily for your kindness, and to assure and special knowledge of the subject would you that every fresh mark of confidence be justified in pronouncing authoritatively which I receive from any section of the Cana- on its details (hear, hear) ; —but this at all dian people only makes me more determined events I may say, wherever I have gone I to strain every nerve in their service (cheer- have found numberless persons who came to ing), and to do my best to contribute towards Canada without anything, and have since the great work upon which you are now risen to competence and wealth (ap- engaged—namely, that of building up on this plause)—that I have met no one who did not side of the Atlantic a prosperous, gladly acknowledge himself better off than loyal, and powerful associate of the British on his first arrival (cheers) —and that amongst Empire. " (Tremendous applause. thousands of persons with whom I have been AT THE ONTARIO LADIES' COLLEGE. brought into contact, no matter what their [The following remark was made in a speech race or nationality, none seemed ever to re- replying to an address from the young ladies gret that they had come here. (Great and of this institution, at Whitby, on the 3rd of

continued applause. ) This fact particularly September. ] struck me on entering the log huts of the "I do not know whether it would be out o settlers in the more distant re- place to remark that there are dangers gions of the country. Undoubt- against which it is advisable for all those edly their hardships had been very who are interested in the healthy, intellec- great, the difficulties of climate and locality tual training of the youth of this continent, frequently discouraging, their personal pri- and particularly of its female youth, to (14 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1864

guard. Of late there has sprung up a class and, after all, gentlemen, I may observe, as of literature which, in ray opinion, contributes a sensitive Englishman, that I do not find, in but very little to the advancement of those Canadian public prints, quite that ample higher aspirations which it ought to be the share given to the discussion of purely British aim and object of all literature to promote. matters which I, of course, might desire. There has arisen of late a school of writers (Laughter.) No, gentlemen, you must not whose chief trick seems to be to extract judge of the affection of the Mother Country amusement and ewoke daughter by turning for her greatest colony, you must not judge everything that is noble, elevated, and reve- of the interest she takes in your affairs, her into ridicule renced by the rest of the world ; pride in your loyalty to herself, by what to substitute parody for invention, and may happen to be said or rather not said in coarse vulgarity for the tender humour of a the newspapers. (Applause.) The heart better day. Or, if this error is avoided, a of England is large, but the English nation is substituted, is sickly, morbid sentimentalism undemonstrative (applause) ; and I am

more corrupting than absolute vice ; or an sure that you will find, whenever the neces- historical sensationalism which is as bad as sities of the case really require it, that the either. I cannot but think it is a great sympathies of England and the attention of matter that in our schools we should take English public opinion will be concentrated the greatest pains to maintain a standard upon Canada with a solicitude and an energy of healthy, robust and refined taste." that will leave you no occasion of complaint. AT BELLEVILLE. (Great applause.) [Delivered on the 5th of September, in the AT BROCKVILLE. course of a reply to an address in which [Delivered in reply to an address from the allusion was made to the injustice done to Mayor and Corporation, on the 7th of Sep- Canada through her true position being mis- tember.] understood.] " Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen,— I thank "In a concluding paragraph you have you for the address with which you have hon- alluded to a feeling which I have sometimes oured me. This is the last address I am destin- heard mentioned in private, and to which hith- ed to receive before my final return to Otta- erto my attention has never been so pointedly wa, where much serious business awaits my at directed, $ viz. : —That Canadian affairs tention. It is with regret I find my holidays scarcely obtain that share of popular atten- drawing to a close, and that a termination tion in England which their importance is about to be put to the pleasant and in- merits. (Hear, hear.) Well, Mr. Mayor structive personal intercourse I have had and gentlemen, I would ask you to call to with such large numbers of the Canadian mind the old adage which says ' Happy are people. At all events I shall carry the the people without annals.' (Hear, hear, pleasantest memories with me into retire- and laughter.) An adage which implies ment. During the six weeks my tour has that only too often the history of a country occupied, I believe that I have received consists of an account of its foilies and mis- something like one hundred and twenty fortunes. (Laughter.) It is sometimes as addresses, every one of which breathed a well to be without a history as with one. spirit of contentment, loyalty and kindness.

(Laughter. ) In the same way you must re- In fact, from first to last no harsh, despond- member that as long as the domestic affairs of ing, or discordant note has marred the jubi- Canada areconducted with thatwisdom which lant congratulations of the nation. But the commands the confidence of England—as long demonstrations.with which we have been as the material condition of Canada is such honoured have not been confined to mere as to occasion neither apprehension nor vocal greetings. It would be impossible to anxiety to England—as long as the senti- describe either the beauty or the variety of ments of Canada are so affectionate and loyal the triumphal emblems which have glittered to the. Mother Country as to leave her no- on either hand along our way. In addition thing to desire, so long will her intercourse to the graceful and picturesque decorations with Canada be confined to those placid hum- of evergreens, flags, tapestry and prismatic drum amenities which characterize every canopies of colour from window to window, happy household. (Hear, hear, and laugh- with which the towns were gay, we have ter.) Again, you must remember that in passed under a number of the most ingeni- England every man who is connected with ous and suggestive arches. There was an public affairs, every public writer, every per- arch of cheeses (laughter), an arch of salt, an son through whom the national sentiments arch of wheels, an arch of hardware, stoves, find expression, is so overwhelmed and over- and pots and pans (great laughter), an arch weighted by his daily occupations that you of sofas, chairs and household furniture must not be surprised if they have not time (laughter), an arch of ladders, laden with

to bo very loquacious on Canadian subjects ; firemen in their picturesque costumes, an )

1875 EAKL OF DUFFERIN. 65 arch of carriages (laughter), an arch of boats, sonal gratitude and satisfaction is absorbed a free trade arch, a protectionists' arch and lost in the prouder consciousness that (great laughter), an arch of children, and this brilliant assembly and the distinguished last of all an arch—no, not an arch, but men I see around me are met, not so much rather a celestial rainbow of lovely young for the purpose of extending a welcome to a ladies ! (Great laughter and applause. ) In- mere individual like myself, but that they deed, the heavens themselves drooped fat- have been brought together by the desire to ness, for not unfrequently a magic cheese or pay a tribute of respect to the great Do- other comestible would descend into our minion over which I have the honour to pre- carriage. As for the Countess of Dufferin, side, and to testify their sympathy in the she has been nearly smothered beneath the most marked and generous manner with that nosegays which rained down upon her, for noble community, their kinsmen and fellow* our path has been strewed with flowers. One citizens, who on the other side of the Atlan- town, not content with fulfilling its splendid tic are engaged in building up a nationality programme of procession, fireworks cognate to their own, instinct with the same and illuminations, concluded its re- high spirit of constitutional freedom, and ception by the impromptu conflag- determined to prove itself a powerful and ration of half a street—(laughter and worthy member of the British Empire. applause)—and when the next morning I (Cheers.) My lords and gentlemen, it is this, thought it my duty to condole with the consideration alone which can give impor- authorities on their misfortune, both the tance and significance to the demonstration owner of thejproperty and the Mayor assured of to-night, and to proceedings which will me with the very heroism of politeness be scanned and discussed with unspeakable that the accident would produce a great im- pride and pleasure by thousands of your fel- provement in the appearance of the place. low-subjects in their distant Canadian home

(Great laughter. ) Gentlemen, I must now (hear, hear)— for if there is one predilection bid you good-bye, and through you I desire mere marked than another in the Canadian to say good-bye to all my other entertainers people; if there is one passion—if I may so throughout the Province. I have been most call it —which predominates over every other deeply affected by their kindness ; for al- feeling in their breasts; if there is one though of course I am well aware that the special message, which a person in my situa- honours of which I have been the recipient tion is bound to transmit from them to you^ have been addressed, not to me, the individu- it is this—that they desire to maintain intact al, but to my office, it would be affectation and unimpaired their connection with this were I to ignore the fact that a strain of country, that they cherish an ineradicable personal goodwill has been allowed to conviction of the pre-eminent value of the mingle with the welcome accorded by the political system under which they live, and'^ people of Ontario to the representative of that they are determined to preserve pure' their Queen. (Cheers. ) I only wish I could and uncontaminated all the traditional cha- have made a more fit return to the demon- racteristics of England's prosperous policy. strations with which I have been honoured. (Cheers.) It would be impossible to over- Happily the circumstances of the country state the universality, the force, the depth have justified me in using the language of of this sentiment, and proud am I to think honest and hearty congratulation, and if I that an assemblage s© representative of the have done wrong in sometimes venturing on public opinion of this country as that which a purely festive occasion a gentle note of I see around me, should be met together ,to warning, or hint of advice, I trust that my reciprocate it and do it justice. (Hear, desire to render practical service to the hear.) But, my lords and gentlemen, I country will be my excuse for any inoppor should be giving you a very wrong^mpr.es.7 tune digressions of this natnre. " (Cheers. sion if I gave you to understand .that the AT LONDON, ENGLAND. enthusiastic loyalty of the Canadian people [Delivered at a dinner of the Canada Club, to the Crown and person of our gracious held in the Albion, London, England, on the Sovereign, their tender and alrnpst. yearning 8th of July, in reply to the toast of his love for the Mother Country, 'the desire to health.] claim their part in the future fortunes of the

• ' In rising to return thanks for the honour British Empire, and to sustain ail the obli- which has been done me by this splendid en- gations such a position may imply, was born tertainment, and for the kind and cordial of any weak or unworthy spirit of depen- manner in which my health has been receiv- dence. So far from tha^ being the case, no ed, I hope it will be understood that, how- characteristic of the national feeling is more ever deeply I may feel the compliment thus strongly marked than their exuberant confi- paid to me—and words would fail to express dence^ in their" abitity to shape their own all that I experience on this score—my per- destinies to''' their "appointed issues, their 5 66 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1875'

jealous pride of the legislative autonomy statesmen of eminence to claim an equal with which they have been endowed, and share with their British colleagues in shap- their patriotic and personal devotion to the ing the history of the Dominion. Whatever land within whose ample bosom they have may be the case elsewhere, in Canada, at all been nurtured, and which they justly regard events, the French race has learnt the gold- as more largely dowered with all that can en rule of moderation, and the necessity of endear a country to its sons than any other in arriving at practical results by the occasion- the world. (Cheers.) And I assure you this al sacrifice of logical symmetry, and the intense affection for 'this Canada of ours,' settlement of disputes in the spirit ot a gen- as we lovingly call her, can surprise no one erous compromise. (Cheers.) The fruit of who has traversed her picturesque and fertile this happy state of things is observable in territories, where mountain, plain, valley, the fact that nowhere do thofe differences river, lake and forest, prairie and table- of opinion which divide the religious world land alternately invite, by their extraordinary of every country, separate the Canadian magnificence and extent, the wonder and the nation either into religious or ethnological admiration of the traveller. (Cheers.) And factions. Religion and race are, of course, yet, however captivating may be the sights observable forces within our body politic ; of beauty thus prepared by the hands of but as far as I have remarked, the divisions Nature, they are infinitely enhanced by the of party are perpendicular rather than contemplation of all that man is doing to horizontal, and in a country or borough turn to the best advantage the gifts thus election, as often as not, Catholic will be placed -within his reach. In every direction found voting against Catholic, Orangeman you see human industry and human energy against Orangeman, Frenchman against digging deep the foundations, spreading out Frenchman, and, what will perhaps the lines, and marking the inviolable boun- cause less surprise, Irishman against daries upon and within which one of the Irishman. In fact, it is made a most intelligent and happiest of offsets of matter of complaint by many persons that the English race is destined to develop into the considerations which regulate and deter- a proud and great nation. The very atmos- mine the allegiance of the people to their phere seems impregnated with the exhilar- several political leaders have become effete ating spirit of enterprise, contentment and and meaningless traditions, unrepresentative hope. The sights and sounds which caress- of any living or vital policy which distin- ed the senses of the Trojan wanderer in guishes the administrative programme of the Dido's Carthage are repeated and multiplied one party from that of the other. If this is in a thousand different localities in Canada, so, it is perhaps to be accounted for by the where flourishing cities, towns and villages fact that our political system is so free from are rising in every direction *dth the rapidity those complications which attach themselves

of a fairy tale. And better still, •pari passu to an older civilization ; we are so little with the development of the.be material evi- harassed by embarrassments contracted

dences of wealth and happiness, is to be in the past ; each individual enjoys such observed the growth of political wisdom, ample space and verge within which to exer- experience, and ability, perfectly capable cise his energies and develop his idiosyncra-

of coping with the various difficult prob- sies ; there is so little friction between either lems which from time to time are pre- the units or the classes which compose our

sented in a country where new condi- community ; and the machinery of Govern- tions foreign to European experience and ment works in so free an atmosphere, that complications arising out of ethnologi- the development of our policy is more akin cal and geographical circumstances are to natural growth than artificial training, constantly requiring the application and and affords, consequently, fewer opportuni- intervention of a statesmanship of the ties for the exhibition of conflicting political highest order. And here, perhaps, I may theories than is the case elsewhere. Still I be permitted to remark on the extraordinary must confess, as the constitutional head of ability and intelligence with which the the State, and dependent, consequently, for French portion of Her Majesty's subjects in my guidance upon the advice of Parliament- Canada join with their British fellow-coun- ary chiefs, I should feel extremely uneasy trymen in working and developing the con- unless I knew their conduct was carefully stitutional privileges with which, thanks to watched by a well-organized, well disciplin- the initiative they were the first to take, ed, and, if I may so call if,professional Oppo- their country has been endowed. Our sition. (Hear, hear.) Nor am I ever more French fellow-countrymen are, in fact, more likely to be able to give my entire confi- parliamentary than the English themselves, dence to my Ministers than when I find their and in the various fortunes of the colony conduct and measures have been able to there have never been wanting French stand the test of an incisive criticism applied —) )

1875 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 67

by their political competitors for office. A you at so great a length, but before I sit Governor-General is bound, Jof course, to down I cannot help expressing my deep regard his Ministers as true metal, but he obligation to the gentleman who proposed, is never better able to do so than when they my health, for the kindly and friendly terms come well refined out of the Parliamentary in which he has been good enough to allude

fire ; and, my lords and gentlemen., this to me as an individual. In reply, I can only is doubly the case when one is able to feel assure him that the recognition thus accord- and I am happy to say I have always been ed to my humble efforts to do my duty will able to feel —the most unlimited confidence only prove a fresh incitement to me to con- in the integrity and wisdom of the Parlia- tinue in that course which has merited his ment of the country whose affairs I adminis- approval. I have no higher ambition in the ter. As long as one can feel certain that not world than that of being able faithfully to only the material interests, but, what is of serve my Sovereign in the high station in more importance, the honour and reputation which she has placed me, worthily to main- of the country can be safely trusted to its tain in her beautiful Dominion the honour Parliament, then there is no bituation in the and the dignity of the Crown, to imitate as world happier .than that of a constitutional closely as may be her noble example in the ruler. No Eastern despot or European auto- discharge of my Viceregal duties, and to crat can feel anything approaching to the obtain the confidence of the Canadian peo- satisfaction with which he watches the ple by my devotion to their service, and by march of those events upon the happy and the impartial exercise of those constitutional fortunate issue of which so much of his own functions which attach to my high office.

peace and reputation must depend. And I (Cheers. ) If to love a country with one's am certain there have never been any in- whole heart, to feei that in each one of its dividuals who have had greater cause and inhabitants one possesses a personal friend, to opportunities for appreciating these charac- believe in its future as implicitly as any one terestics of a popular assembly than those of its most sanguine sons, to take a pride in persons who, like my predecessors and my- everything which belongs to it—its scenery, self, have had the good fortune to preside climate, its physical and moral characteris- over the free Dominion of Canada. (Cheers. tics, the idiosyncrasies of its people, nay their And, my lords and gentlemen, the circum- very ^sports and pastimes—be any test of stances to which I have briefly alluded are, I loyalty to its interests, then I feel my devo- am happy to say, continually receiving a tion to Canada can never be called in ques-

more marked recognition at the hands, not tion. (Cheers. ) My only regret is that my merely of the people in this country, but, ability and talents should not be commen- what is even of greater importance, at those surate with the desire by which I of the inhabitants of the United States. am possessed of rendering it effectual service. Nothing, in fact, can be more friendly than Happily, however, its present condition, the the relations and feelings which prevail fortunate consummation of all those aspira- between the Canadian people and their tions which under the auspices of one of my neighbours across the frontier. Whatever predecessors have been crowned by Confede- may have been the case in former times, ration, and the satisfactory impulse given to every thoughtful citizen of the United its young life by the wise administration of States is now convinced that the fate of another, have superinduced so halcyon an Canada has been unalterably fixed and deter- epoch as to have rendered it a comparatively mine 1, and that she is destined to move easy task for a successor of less eminence and within her own separate and individual experience than theirs to carry on the task

orbit. So far from regarding this with jea- which they so , happily inaugurated. If, lousy, the public of the United States con- therefore, at the end of the next three years, templates with a generous enthusiasm the I shall be able to complete my term under daily progress of Canada's prosperous career. the same happy circumstances which have

In fact, they are wise enough to understand hitherto characterized its duration ; if I can that it is infinitely to the advantage of the carry with me home to England the consci- human race that the depressing monotony ousness that the people of Canada regard me of political thought on the American ' conti- as having been a faithful, loving and devoted nent should be varied and enlivened by the servant to the Dominion ; if, at the same development of a political system akin to, time, I am fortunate enough to have merited yet diverse from their own, productive of a the approval of my Sovereign and country- friendly emulation, and offering many points men at home, I shall consider few public of contrast and comparison, which they al- servants will have ever reaped so honourable ready begin to feel they can study with and so dearly prized a reward." (Loud advantage. (Cheers.) My lords and gentle- cheers. men, 1 have to apologize for having detained ;

THE SPEECHES OF THE 1875

AT CLANDEBOYE (IRELAND). Again, when Iwent up to Lake Superior, I [Delivered in reply to an address of wel- was taken to see a very remarkable under- come by his tenantry on the 2Sth of July.] taking, a silver mine, the shaft of which has " I am very grateful to you for the kind been sunk in a small island, not much bigger, expressions which you have used in regard originally, than a dining room table ; but, in to my endeavours to do my duty by my Queen order to prosecute their enterprise, the com- and country in that great Dominion over pany had been compelled to create, as it which I have the honour to preside. And were, a Venice in the waters of Lake Supe- perhaps it would not be inappropriate to the rior. They have built a small city upon piles, present occasion that I should tell you that and they are now in the course of conduct- amongst the many pleasures I have had in ing one of the most successful enterprises administering the affairs of its government, upon the American continent. At the head and in visiting its various districts, few hav* of that enterprise I was extremely pleased been greater than that which I have expe- to find a well-known Killyleagh man. These rienced from, in almost every part of the are but a few instances of many others which country, Irishmen from different parts of I could enumerate, but I thought I could Ireland, all of them united by common sym- not make a more opportune communication of loyalty to the Queen, all of than gi ving you those pathy — them ; by instances of the animated by a spirit of happiness and con- manner in which County Down men, wher- tentment, and all of them engaged in a pros- ever they find themselves in any part — j of the perous career. But amongst those Irishmen, world, seem invariably to fall upon their

J I am happy to say, the most prosperous legs, and go to the top of the tree." j and fortunate the most contented AT OTTAWA. and the most fortunate, have been [Delivered on the occasion of a dinner to have connected with this appointed Judges persons who been i the newly of the Supreme equal honour to Court, at Government locality, and who do | House,, on the 18th of adopted the country which they have and the I September.] district from which they have taken their " My Lord, Ladies and Gentlemen, — origin. When I visited Fredericton, the Although it is not my usual custom to call I aapital of New Brunswick, the Lieutenant- upon the guests at Government House to [ to visit other toast Governor proposed to me what he [ drink any than that of the

said was one of the most remarkable ©in- ! health of Her Most Gracious Majesty the stances of how intelligence and industry can Queen, the present occasion is one of such an create a paradise in a desert. We drove a important and exceptional character that I few miles out, and presently we came to a am sure it will not be considered unnatural beautiful little village, in the centre of which I should desire to mark it in a peculiar man- stood a magnificent church. Beside the ner. For the first time since its constitu- church was a schoolhouse, —beyond the tion by a recent A ct of Parliament, I have schoolhouse was a mansion almost as large had the pleasure of receiving at my table the and as splendid as Clandeboye itself ; in the learned and distinguished Judges who com- neighbourhood were villas, and, further on pose the Supreme Court of Canada. The again, beyond them, comfortable cottages for establishment of that Court marks another the superintendents, skilled workmen, and epoch in the progressive history of the Do- artisans belonging to this great establishment. minion ; it exhibits another proof and pledge The owner had taken a lease from the Gov- of the stability of our Confederation, and of eminent of 200,000 or300,000"acres of forest the solidifying process which has knit into a he had cut down the trees, made dams, con- homogeneous and patriotic community the

structed weirs ; he had cleared the country, inhabitants of what a few years ago were and had created, I might say, a large extent the scattered districts of Great Britain's of arable land, and pari passu with his in North American possessions. But the con- creasing prosperity, he had devoted his stitution of such a Court is not merely an wealth and intelligence to promote the happi- evidence of so complete a unification of the ness of those to whose labour and industry Dominion as to permit the rays of justice he was so much indebted for his own ad- being thus focussed to a point ; it is also an vancement. He was very glad to receive exemplification of the confidence reposed by me, and introduced me to his mother, and I the people of Canada in the learning and at- then found that this good old lady had tainments of the legal profession in this originally come from Clandeboye ; and this country. Had not the Parliament of Canada gentleman himself had, I believe, been a been convinced that the Bar of the Domi- tenant of my neighbour, Mr. Sharman Craw- nion was now, and would * continue to be, ford, and I spent an hour with them, giving capable of producing persons of such com- an account of their grand nieces, and ^,rand manding authority and reputation as that nephews, and their various other relations. bheir judgments would be universally ac- "

1876 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 69

quiesced in, it would not have ventured upon AT THE QUEBEC DINNER. so bold an experiment as the creation of a [Delivered in reply to the toast of His Court superior in its jurisdiction to all the Excellency's health, proposed by Mayor other Provincial Courts in the Dominion. Murphy, in the Music Hall, on the 21st of (Applause.) I have myself no misgivings June.] that Parliament will be disappointed in these " Mr. Mayor, Your Honour, and Gen- expectations. I have no doubt but that tlemen, —I can assure you it is with feelings those eminent personages present amongst of no ordinary emotion that for the first time us to-night will succeed in establishing for since coming to this country I find myself their Court a reputation and an authority called upon to address a public audience in

equal to the anticipations of their country- the ancient capital of Canada ; for I cannot men. The authority of a court of justice is he*lp remembering under what various con- founded on the soundness of its decisions. ditions, in how many vital emergencies, at (Hear, hear.) Under the free Constitution what supreme epochs in its history, during of the British Empire, no earthly power can tht last 300 years, my illustrious predeces- check the growth or diminish the weight of sors must have had occasion to harangue the an authority established on such a basis. A citizens of Quebec. (Cheers.) In a thou- great Court thus becomes the author of its sand vicissitudes of fortune, in perpetual al- own supremacy—nay, it can extend its as- ternations of triumph and despondency ;when cendancy beyond the limits of its natural hordes of savages were lurking round your jurisdiction, and impress foreign codes of palisades ; when famine had prostrated you jurisprudence with its own interpretations strength, and the unaccustomed rigours of an of Arctic equity and justice. Witness the respect winter had benumbed your faculties ; and deference with which the Chief Court when novel forms of pestilence devastated of the United States is quoted by British your homes, crowning your clergy and your jurists. sisterhoods and European Such a court is the with the aureole of martyrdom ; foreign parent of peace, order and good government ; when leaguers assaulted your inde- it is the guardian of civil, political and re- pendence, and hostile cannon threatened ligious liberty. (Hear, hear. ) It is like the your battlements, Viceroy after Viceroy has sun at noon-day ; it shines with its own appealed to your patience, your fortitude, ilght ; and happily, human passion and pre- your charity, your patriotism, and never judice, executive tyranny, and popular once, whether in good fortune or ill fortune, frenzy, are as impotent to intercept the as your history tells us, has the appeal been beneficent influence of the one as to shear made in vain. (Great applause. ) Happily, the beams from the other. (Hear, hear.) I however, those days of dramatic oratory are now propose to you the health of the Chief over. From the rock on which your city Justice of Canada, and of his brethren the stands, once isolated by an interminable other Judges, members of the Supreme ocean of primeval forest, and a waste of bar- Court of Canada, and to this toast I will barism, there now stretches out on every venture to add but one word more. * Inter side to the horizon a perfectly ideal prospect pocula,' the strict rules of Responsible Gov- of agricultural wealth and beauty, while ernment may for a moment be suspended, you" political dominion, at one time reach- and as c'.uring the saturnalia the Roman ing no further than the range of your primi- slaves were allowed to buffet their masters tive artillery, now requires two oceans to with impunity, so a Governor General may confine it. (Cheers.) As a consequence of be permitted for once, on a festive occasion this extraordinary growth, the personal and like the present, to give his Prime Minister autocratic administration of the Regal re- advice instead of receiving it ; and the ad- presentatives in this country has been super- vice I would tender to Mr. Mackenzie, and seded by the infinitely safer, more effective, through him to the Parliament and people and less obnoxious regimen of Parliamen- of Canada, is this : that inasmuch as pure, tary Government. (Applause, f But though efficient, and authoritative courts of justice relieved of the wider responsibilities which are the most precious possession a people can once weighed so heavily upon the earlier enjoy, the very founts and sources of a occupants of the office, and brought them healthy national existence, there is no duty into such close though not always harmo- more incumbent on a great and generous' nious intimacy with the community they community than to take care that all and ruled, the Governor Generals of to-day find every one of those who administer justice in themselves all the better able to cultivate the land are accorded a social, moral, and I those friendly social 7-elations with the in- will venture to add, a material recognition habitants of the country which it is one of proportionate to their arduous labours, their chief duties to maintain, and of which weighty responsibilities and august position. this splendid banquet is a most gratifying

(Applause.) exhibition. (Applause. ) And proud am I —

70 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1876 to think, Mr. Mayor and gentlemen, that North Pole. (Tremendous applause.) the admiration I have always felt for the Gentlemen of the Town Council, you must beauty of your town, which iu my opinion remember that you hold Quebec not merely is rivalled by that of only two other capitals as the delegates of its citizens, not merely in the world (applause), and the deep sense even in the interest of the people of Canada, I entertain of the singular kindness and af- but as trustees on behalf of civilization and fection evinced toward me by your citizens, th< inhabitants of the whole American con- should have evoked so flattering a recogni- tinent (applause)—by whom the ruin and tion as that which is being extended to me at degradation of its antique battlements would this moment. I only wish I could make an be regarded as an irreparable outrage and a adequate return for so much goodwill, but common loss. (Renewed applause.) But, there is one thing at all events which I can gentlemen, happily there is no danger of do —I can seize this opportunity of express- the perpetration of any such suicidal ing my heartiest and warmest sympathies destruction. Far from lending a traitorous with the efforts which you, Mr. Mayor, and hand to assist the ravages of time, you are your enlightened townsmen are making to do making preparations to still further exalt justice to the glorious inheritance you have and adorn your crown of towers ; and sure received from those who have gone before am I that in after ages, when a maturer you, by devoting your energies to the moral civilization shall have still fuither changed improvement, the commercial development the face of Canada into that which it may and the external embelishment of this re- at present be beyond our imagination to nowned and ancient city. (Continued ap- conceive, your descendants of that day will plause. ) It is with especial pleasure I have regard with feelings of everlasting gratitude learnt that there is now every prospect of those wise and instructed aediles who handed our being able to accomplish the scheme down to them intact so precious a memorial which has been set on foot for the preserva- of their country's past—a memorial which tion and beautifying of your fortifications, each lapsing century will invest with an combining, as it does, a due regard for the ever deepening glow of interest. (Great requirements of our increasing traffic, by the cheering.) And, gentlemen, you must not

r enlargement and multiplication of j our suppose that the laudable efforts you are thoroughfares, with the careful protection making have escaped the observation of our from the hands of the .Vandal of those glo- fellow-countrymen at home. No sooner was rious bastions which girdle the town, and it known in England that a scheme had been which are dignified by such interesting his- inaugurated for the embellishment of the torical associations, and in doingthis, gentle- fortifications of Quebec, ihan the Secretary men, you are only following the example of of State for War, as the official representa- every municipality in Europe that has the tive and spokesman of the military sympa- good luck to be placed in similar circum- thies of the Empire, announced to me his stances. There was a time, indeed, when, intention of testifying his own admiration, through ignorance and a gross indifference to and the admiration of the soldier world of the past, the precious relics of antiquity Great Britain at what we are about to do, by were lightly regarded, and irreparable injury asking the Imperial House of Commons has consequently been inflicted on many an who responded with acclamation to the pro- invaluable monument ; but the resentment, posal— to vote a sum of money to be ex- the contempt, and the objurgations with pended in the decoration of some point which the authors of such devastations have along your walls in such a manner as might been since visited by their indig- serve to connect it with the joint memory of nant descendants, evinces how com- those two illustrious heroes. Wolfe and pletely the world has awaked to the Montcalm (great applause), whose deeds of obligation of preserving with a pious solici- valour and whole noble deaths in the service tude such precious records of a bygone of their respective countries would have age. But if this obligation is imperative been alone sufficient to immortalize the fair on the other side of the Atlantic, where the fortress for whose sake they contended, and vestiges not only of mediaeval art, but even whose outworks they watered with their of classic times, are to be found in consider- blood. But, gentlemen, the news of your able profusion, how much more is it incum- praiseworthy exertions has moved the heart bent upon us to maintain intact the one city and sympathies of even a greater personage on this continent which preserves the than the Secretary of State for War—the romantic characteristics of its early origin(ap- Queen of England herself, who takes as plause) —a city the picturesqueness of whose much pride and interest in all that is doing architecture and war-scathed environments in her distant colonies as she does in what presents a spectacle unlike any other which happens within a stone's throw of her palace, s to be found between Cape Horn and the has been graciously pleased to command me 1876 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 71 to take an early—and what better oppor- his man of business to protect the ruin with tunity could I take than the present of a wall, and left forlEngland. On returning conveying to you, Mr. Mayor, and. to those he took an early opportunity of visiting the who are associated with you in this credit- spot, to see whether, as his agent had able enterprise, and to the citizens of Que- already assured him, his orders had been bec, whose patriotism has authorized you to properly executed. Judge of his dismay engage in it, her warm approval of the pro- when he found indeed a beautiful new wall, ject which has been set on foot, and her six feet high, running round the site of the hearty sympathy with the enlightened senti- old castle, but the castle levelled itself to the meuts which have inspired it, and she has ground. (Great laughter. ) The economical furthermore expressed a desire to be asso- agent had pulled down the tower in order to ciated personally with the work by present- build the wall with the stones of which it ing her good city of Quebec with one of the was. composed. (Renewed laughter. ) But, new gateways with which your enceinte is gentlemen, I must detain you no longer, and to be pierced, for the erection of which Her yet before I sit down there is one observa Majesty has been good enough to forward to tion I cannot help desiring to make. I can- me a handsome subscription—(tremendous not help wishing to express the extreme applause, the whole company rising an ! satisfaction which I experience in observing cheering for several minutes) —and which with what alacrity and self-abnegation the she desires may be named after her father, chief citizens of Quebec, gentlemen whose pri- the late Duke of Kent, who for so many vate occupations and engagements must be years lived amongst you, and who to his extremely absorbing, are content to sacrifice dying day retained so lively a recollection of their domestic leisure, and the interests of the kindness and courtesy with which he their private business in order to give their was treated. Mr. Mayor and gentlemen, time and attention to the public service, and this would not be the place to enter into the direction and management of your muni- any discussion of the details or of the mode cipal affairs, (Cheers.) And in paying this by which the projected improvements are to well-deserved compliment to those whom I be carried out. But there is one leading am immediately addressing, I am happy to principle which I trust may be kept in view, think that I can extend it with equal jus- viz., to arrange that there should be one tice to the municipalities of Canada continuous uninterrupted pathway for pedes- at large. (Applause.) Gentlemen, I trians along the entire circuit of the ram- take it that there is no more healthy sign parts, starting westward from Durham Ter- of national life than this, or rather that there race, round the base of the Citadel, and so would be no more fatal indication of an un- by the Esplanade, the Artillery Barracks, patriotic, selfish, and despicable spirit, than Palace Gate, the Grand Battery, past the pre- were we to see what are called the busi- sent Parliament Buildings, across Mountain ness men of the country, that is to say, street, and back to Durham Terrace again. those persons who, by their education, cha- If thi3 is accomplished, you will possess a racter, habits, and intelligence, are best fit- walk which, for its convenience, freedom ted to serve her, being tempted by an over- from noise, danger, and interruption—for absorption in their private business to abstain the variety and beauty of its points of view, from all contact with public affairs, and a and for its historical and civic interest, will due participation in the onerous and honour- be absolutely unequalled (applause and able strife of municipal or parliamentary cheers), and I am happy to think that the politics. (Cheering.) Were such a defec- inexhaustible store of cut stone, of which tion on the part of the most intelligent, the obsolete and superfluous outworks be- energetic, and high-principled men of the yond the walls are composed, will supply country to prevail, the consequence would cheap, handy, and ample materials for the be that the direction of its affairs would fall repair of the dilapidated portions of the into the hands of corrupt adventurers and bastions, and for the construction of the trading politicians, and that the moral tone contemplated gateways. But in resorting of the nation as a nation would deterio- to these materials I hope you will avoid the rate throughout every ramification, phase, error committed by the zealous but not very and stratum of society. And what, I ask, is enlightened agent of a friend of mine in Ire- the worth of the largest fortune in the world, land. Upon the estate of this nobleman of the most luxurious mansion, of all the re- there stood an ancient tower, the relic of a finements and amenities of civilization, if we castle which in ruder ages his ancestors had cannot be proud of the country in which we inhabited. Finding that mischievous chil- enjoy them (loud applause), if we are com- dren, |cat tie, tourists, donkeys (laughter), and pelled to blush for the infamy of our rulers, other trespassers of that sort were forestall- if we cannot claim act and part in the pro- ing the depredations of time, he instructed gress and history of our country (cheers), if ) .

72 THE SPEECHES OE THE 187ft our hearts do not throb in unison with the pleasure of annually distributing are as well vital pulse of the national existence, if we deserved elsewhere as this one has been here merely cling to it as parasites cling to a to-day by Mademoiselle Lavoie, I have every growth of rotten vegetation ? (Applau?e.) reason to be proud of the results they will Of course I do not mean to imply that we have produced. (Cheers.) I have had so should all insist on being Prime Ministers, many opportunities on previous occasions of Secretaries of State, or Mayors, or Members expressing my deep sympathy and interest of Parliament, or Town Councillors. in the educational work of which to-day's (Laughter.) Such aspirations in all would be ceremonial has been so interesting an ex- neither useful nor desirable. A large pro- ponent, that I fear I can hardly find anything portion of the energies of the community new to say upon the general subject, unless must be always employed in building up its it be to remind those ladies at whose mercantile, manufacturing and agricultural triumphs we have had the pleasure of as- status, and in its learned professions ; but I sisting, that the honours they have now gain- venture to think that no one, especially in a ed ought to prove a fresh incentive young country, no matter what his occu- to them to continue their exertions pation, should consider himself justified in in the honourable profession to which they dissociating himself altogether from all propose to devote themselves. I say the contact with political affairs. The busiest honourable profession advisedly, because of us can examine, analyze and judge ; we however wearisome, laborious, and trying it can all canvass, vote, protest, and contend may occasional^ prove, the privilege of for our opinion ; we can all feel that we are teaching is, after all, one of the most benefi- active members of a young commonwealth, cent, useful, and effective occupations in whose future prospects and. prosperity will w those who love their country, and depend upon the degree of patriotism, self- th fellow creatures, can engage. You are, sacrifice, and devotion with which we apply as was once said of your prototypes in a our energies in our several stations to her higher sphere, ' the salt of the earth;' each material, moral, and political development. one of you is now qualified to prove in the

(Great cheering. ) The principle, I am happy separate theatre of your respective labours a to think, has been duly appreciated by my centre of light, and a fountain of intellectual fellow-subjects on this side of the Atlantic, and moral instruction, destined to illuminate and it gives me the greatest pleasure to think and render gay with fruit and flowers the that here, as at home, due honour and recog- region within the scope of your influence ;. nition is accorded to those who, like you, Mr. and what limit are we to place to the influ- Mayor, like you, gentlemen, that surround ence for good of a virtuous, high-minded, me, like the two Prime Ministers, and the sensible and well-educated woman over those members of the two Governments with which with whom she is brought in contact ? And I have been associated since I came into the we who are anxious about the future of our country, have sacrificed many an opportuni- country must have great satisfaction in con- ty of increasing their private fortunes, and sidering that there should exist in the vari- of enhancing the worldly position of their ous provinces of Canada such an admirable families, in order that they may render'more machinery as is provided by th^ese Normal faithful and undivided service to their be- Schools for the diffusion of an atmosphere of loved Canada, and the Empire of which she cheerfulness, elegance, purity and intellectual is the fairest offshoot." (Tremendous cheer- activity in the homes of the nation. This is iug and applause. especially true as applied to the women AT LAVAL NORMAL SCHOOL. teachers of our schools, for it is on them we [Delivered at the distribution of prizes to must depend for the maintenance of a proper the female students in the hall of tbe Uisu- standard of gocd manners, of refinement, aud line Convent, on the 27th of June.] of that high moral tone of which these quali- " Ladies and Gentlemen, — 1 assure you ties are the outcome, and I trust you I have difficulty in finding words to convey will always rembember that the execution all that 1 have felt during the very touching of this portion of your functions is not less spectacle we have just witnessed, but the imperative upon you than are the^other performances of this afternoon would be in- branches of your profession. And in r ; la- complete were I not to express, on behalf of tion to this particular part of your duties, those present, the admiration we have ex- there is one peculiarity I have observed in perienced at everything that has taken place. this couutry—indeed not indigenous, but I cannot say how glad lam to have had an op- imported, —which I think you might use portunity of giving away with my own hands your influence to correct : I observe that it the medak I have been allowed to place at is an almost (.universal practice upon this the disposition of this institution; and I can continent, even on public occasions—in only say that if all the others Ijjhave the prize lists, roll calls, and in the inter- 1876 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 7* course of general society—for young ladies lumbia, as in every other portion of the to be alluded to by their casual acquaint- great Dominion of which you form a part, ances, nay, even in the newspapers, by the representative of Her Most Gracious what in the old country we would call Majesty the Queen would be sure to find their " pet " names—that is to say, those himself in the midst of a population inspired caressing, soft appellations of endearment by the most enthusiastic devotion to the with which their fathers and brothers, and Person, Throne and Government of their those who are nearest to them, strive to give Sovereigu, nor that would such sentiments expression to the yearning affection felt for be more likely anywhere to find appropriate them in the home circle. Now it seems to expression than in the flourishing city me to be a monstrous sacrilege, and quite which has the honour of bearing her name. incompatible with the dignity and self-re- Almost from the first moment that I spect due to the daughters of our land, and landed in Canada I felt that my functions as with the chivalrous reverence with which Viceroy would not be adequately fulfilled they should be approached even in thought, unless I could accomplish a visit to British that the tender, love-invented nomenclature Columbia ; and the personal intercourse I of the fireside should be bandied about at have had with your Parliamentary represen- random in the mouths of every empty-headed tatives at the capital of the Dominion still Tom, Dick, and Harry in the street, whose further confirmed my desire to visit a popu- idle tongue may chance to babble of them. lation who, in the persons of their members, (Cheers and laughter.) For instance, in the contributed so materially to enhance the Uuited States, before her marriage, I observed dignity, the eloquence, and the intellectual that Miss Grant, the daughter of the occu- reputation of the Federal Parliament. I pant of one of the most august positions in have now arrived, after a tedious and cir- the world, was generally referred to in the cuitous journey of many thousand miles newspapers as "Nellie," as though the through afforeign country, and a sea voyage paragraphist who wrote the item had been of several days' duration, in this splendid her playfellow from infancy. Of course port, which for its commodiousness and se- this is a small matter to which I have curity is not to be rivalled by any harbour in alluded, Dut it is not without significance the world. It will be my pleasing when regarded as a national characteristic. duty to become personally acquainted After all, the women of this continent are with all the leading inhabitants ladies, as refined, high-minded, and noble- of your community, and to acquire hearted as are to be found in any country by personal observation an accurate know- in the world, and the sooner we get rid of ledge of the views, wishes, needs, and aspi- this vulgar solecism the better ; —and the rations of every class and section that com- first place where the correction should be pose it, and to carry back with me to the made is in our school lists, which are seat of Government at Ottawa, and to trans- official documents where young ladies ought mit to the Imperial authorities at home, the to be entered in their full Christian names, valuable information which I thus hope to ac- and not in their nicknames, as I have often quire. On the other hand, I trust that the pre- seen done. In conclusion, ladies and gentle- sence amongst you of the head of the Execu- men, allow me to congratulate you upon the tive Government of tte Dominion, and of very satisfactory character of this morning's the officer entrusted by Her Majesty with ceremonial, and to express on your behalf to the duty of representing her in British North the authorities under whose intelligent ad- America, will be accepted by you as a pledge ministration such excellent results have been of the interest and sympathy with which you produced, our warm appreciation of their are regarded both by the Queen of England efforts to promote the cause of education and her advisers, as well as by the Govern- through the powerful instrumentality of the ment at Ottawa and the entire body of your Female Normal School of Quebec." Canadian fellow-subjects, who, I can safely assure you, desire nothing more sincerely AT VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA. than to be united with you in the strictest [Delivered in reply to an address of wel- bonds of fellowship, patriotism, interest, and jome from the Mayor and Citizens, under an affection. I need not add that I have no arch in the street, on the 18th of August.] greater ambition than to, contribute within 'Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen,—I can as- the sphere of my constitutional functions as sure you that I feel very grateful for the energetically as possible towards this end, kind welcome with which you and those and I sincerely trust that ere my term of eehom you represent have been pleased to office is concluded I may see the national as reet Lady Dufferin and myself on our ar- well as the political connection already ex- •ivaljin this important and beautiful Province. isting between British Columbia and the

[ never doubted but that in'J British^Co. Eastern portion of the Dominion in a fair " "

THE SPEECHES OF THE 1876 74

close and HIS GREAT SPEECH IN BRITISH COLUMBIA. of being rendered still more way [Delivered "at Government House, Vic- intimate." toria, on the occasion of his departure on the [An extract from a speech in reply to 20th of September.] the Chamber of Commerce, an address from very glad to the 2oth of "Gentlemen,—I am indeed read l»y Mr. Henry Rhodes, on have an opportunity before quitting British August.] Columbia of thanking you, and,through you, " aware, in spite of its indis- As you are the citizens of Victoiia. not only for the advantages, the putably countervailing general kindness and courtesy I have met government is oc- march of Parliamentary with during my residence among you, but unexpected checks casionally disturbed by especially for the invitation to the banquet altogether and miscarriages, which it is with which you proposed to have honoured of the Executive Admin- beyond the power me. I regret that my engagements did not control or avert. Nor is istration either to permit me to accept this additional proof of the head of that it within the competence of but my desire to see as 4 your hospitality ; as represented by Her Executive, whether much as possible of the country and my home, or by the Majesty to her advisers at other engagements forced me most reluctant- here, to do more than Governor-General ly to decline it. I shall, however, have a free play to the work- superintend and give final opportunity of mingling with your machine. But, ing of the Constitutional citizens at the entertainment arranged for that within the limits gentlemen, be assured me at Beacon Hill this afternoon, to which I sphere of my marked out for me by the am looking forward with the greatest plea- shall be wanting official position, no effort sure. Perhaps, gentlemen, I may be also cause of justice, on my part to promote the permitted to take advantage of this occasion in the regulation good faith, and good feeling to express to you the satisfaction and enjoy- your community of the relations into which ment I have derived from my recent pro- constitutional has been drawn with the other gress through such portions of the Province great Canadian portions of Her Majesty's as I have been able to reach within the short Dominion. period left at my disposal. I am well aware AT NANAIMO, BRITISH COLUMBIA. I have visited but a small portion of your [An extract from a speech delivered in domains, and that there are important cen- have been reply to an address from the Mayor and tres of population from which I to regret Citizens, read on the 27th of August.] kept aloof. More especially have I my inability to reach Cariboo, the chief " I can assure you, I fully sympathize with theatre of your mining industry, and the the anxieties to which you give utterance in home of a community with whose feelings, respect of the accomplishment by the Do- wishes, and sentiments it would have been minion of those engagements to which you very advantageous for me to have become refer as the ' Carnarvon terms,' more personally acquainted. Scill, by dint of con- especially as the performance of one of them, siderable exertion, I traversed the entire in which, I understand, you consider your- coast of British Columbia from its southern selves so deeply interested, viz. , the con- extremity to Alaska. I have penetrated to struction of tbe Nanaimo and Esquimalt the head of Bute Inlet. I have examined Railway, has, through the action of one the Seymour Narrows, and the other channels branch of the Canadian Legislature, become which intervene between the head of Bute extremely problematic. Inlet and Vancouver Island. I have looked VICTORIA, B.C. AT THE SCHOOLS OF into the mouth of Dean's Canal and passed [An extract from a speech in reply to an across the entrance to Gardiner's Channel. I address read by the Superintendent on the have visited Mr. Duncan's wonderful settle- 18th of September. His Excellency, after ment at Metlahkatlah and the interesting intimating that he presented three medals Methodist mission at Fort Simpson, and what scenes for competition, said :] have thus been enabled to realize ' of idyllic ' I shall look forward with very great in- of primitive peace and innocence, terest to learning, when the proper time beauty and material comfort, can be present- comes, the names of those pupils who may ed by the stalwart men and comely maidens have been successful in the contest I now of an Indian community under the wise^ ad- propose to you. Those names will be re- ministration'of a judicious and devoted Chris- across the in- corded in a book kept for that purpose ; and tian missionary. I have passed if ever, in after life, I may have the oppor- tervening Sound to Queen Charlotte Island tunity of being of the slightest assistance to and to Skidegate, and studied with wonder the successful competitors, the fact of their the strange characteristics of a Hydah village having one of these prizes will be in itself a with its forest of heraldic pillars. I have title to my interest." been presented with the sinister opportunity —

1876 EARL OF DUFFERIN. /5 of descending upon a tribe of our Pagan sav- bered that this wonderful system of naviga- ages in the very midst of their drunken orgies tion—equally well adapted to the largest and barbarous rites, and after various other line-of-battle ship and the frailest canoe, explorations 1 have had the privilege of visit- fringes the entire seaboard of your province, ing under very gratifying circumstances the and commuuicates at points sometimes more Royal city of New Westminster. Taking than a hundred miles from the coast with a from that spot a new departure, we proceed- multitude of valleys stretching eastward into ed up the valley of the Fraser, where the the interior, at the same time that it is river has cloven its way through the granite furnished with innumerable harbours on ridges and bulwarks of the Cascade Range, either hand, one is lost in admiration at the and along a road of such admirable con- fa3ilities for inter-communication which are struction, considering the engineering diffi- thus provided for the future inhabitants of culties of the line and the modest resources this wonderful region. It is true at the f the colony when it was built, as does present moment they lie unused except by the greatest credit to the able adminis- the Indian fisherman and villager, but the trator who directed its execution. Passing day will surely come when the rapidly thence into the open valleys and rounded diminishing stores of pine upon this conti- eminences beyond, -we have had an oppor- nent will be still further exhausted, and tunity of appreciating the pastoral resources when the nations of Europe, as well as of and agricultural capabilities of what is America, will be obliged to recur to British known as the bunch grass country. It is need- Columbia for a material of which you will less to say that wherever we went we found by that time b*1 the principal depository. the same kindness, the same loyalty, the Already from an adjoining port on the main- same honest pride in their country and in- land a large trade is being done in lumber stitutions, which characterize the English with Great Britain, Europe, and South race throughout the world, while Her Ma- America, and I venture to think that ere jesty s Indian subjects on their spirited long the ports of the United States will per- horses, which the ladies of their families force be thrown open to your traffic. I had seemed to bestride with as much ease and the pleasure of witnessing the overthrow by grace as their husbands or brothers, notwith- the axes of your woodmen of one of your standing the embarrassment of one baby on forest giants, that towered to the height of the pommel and another on the crupper, met 250 feet above our heads, and whose rings us everywhere in large numbers, and testified bore witness that it dated its birth from the in their untutored fashion their genuine de- reign of the Fourth Edward ; and where he votion to their white mother. Having jour- grew, and for thousands of miles along the neyed into the interior as far as Kamloops,and coast beyond him, millions of his contem- admired from a lofty eminence in its neigh- poraries are awaiting the same fate. With bourhood what seemed an almost intermin- such facilities of access as I have described able prospect of grazing lands and valleys to the heart and centre of your various susceptible of cultivation, we were forced forest lands, where almost every tree can be with much reluctance to turn our faces home- rolled from the spot upon which it grows to wards to Victoria. And now that I am back it the ship which is to transfer it to its desti- may perhaps interest you to learn what are nation, it would be difficult to over-estimate the impressions I have derived during my the opportunities of industrial development journey. Well, I may frankly tell you that thus indicated—and to prove that I am not I think British Columbia a glorious Province over sanguine in my conjectures, I will read —a Province which Canada should be proud you a letter recently received from the to possess, and whose association with the British Admiralty. by Mr. Innes,the superin- Dominion she ought to regard as the crown- tendent of the dockyard at Esquimalt : ing triumph of federation. Such a spectacle ' From various causes, spars from Canada, as its coast line presents is not to be parallel- the former main source of supply, have not ed by any country in the world. Day of late years been obtainable, and the trade after day, for a whole week, in a vessel of in New Zealand spars for topmasts has nearly 2,000 tons, we threaded an intermina- also completely died away. Of late years ble labyrinth of watery lanes and reaches the sole source of supply has been the casual that wound endlessly in and out of a net- cargoes of Oregon spars, imported from time work of islands, promontories, and peninsu- to time, and from these the wants of the las for thousands of miles, unruffled by the service have been met. But my lords feel

slightest swell from the adjoining ocean, and that this is not a . source to be depended presenting at every turn an ever-shifting upon, more especially for the larger sized combination of rock, verdure, forest, glacier, spars.' Their lordships then proceed to and snow-capped mountains of unrivalled order Mr. Innes to make arrangements for grandeur and beauty. When it is remem- the transhipment for the dockyards of 76 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1876

Great Britain of the specified number of minion, cut off by a trackless waste of in- Douglas pine which will be required by the tervening territory from all intercourse, service during the ensuing year ; and what whether of a social or of a commercial charac- England does in this direction other nations ter, with those with whom we are politically will feel themselves compelled t'o do as well. united ? Well, gentlemen, I can only But I have learnt a further lesson. I have answer, of comparatively little use, or, at had opportunities of inspecting some of the all events, of far less profit than they would spots where your mineral wealth is stored, immediately become were the railway, upon and here again the ocean stands your friend, whose construction you naturally counted the mouths of the coal pits I have visited when you entered into Confederation, once almost opening into the hulls of the vessels completed. But here I feel I am touching that are to convey their contents across the upon dangerous ground. You are well aware, ocean. When it is further remembered that from the first moment I set foot in the inexhaustible supplies of iron ore are found Province I was careful to inform every one in juxtaposition with your coal, no one can who approaehed me that I came here as the blame you for regarding the beautiful island Governor-General of Canada, and the repre- on which you live as having been especially sentative of Her Majesty, exactly in the favoured by Providence in the distribution same way as I had passed through other of these natural gifts. But still more pre- Provinces of the Dominion, in order to make cious minerals than either coal or iron en- acquaintance with the people, their wants, hance the value of your possessions. As we wishes, and aspirations, and to learn as much skirted the banks of the Fraser we were met as I could in regard to the physical features, at every turn by evidences of its extraordi- capabilities, and resources of the Province ; nary supplies of fish, but scarcely less fre- that I had not come on a diplomatic mission, quent were the signs afforded us of the or as a messenger, or charged with any an- golden treasures it rolls down, nor need any nouncement either from the Imperial or from traveller think it strange to see the Indian the Dominion Government. This state- fisherman hauling out a salmon onto the sands ment I beg now most distinctly to repeat. from whence the miner beside him is sifting Nor should it be imagined that I have come the sparkling ore. But the signs of mineral either to persuade or coax you into any wealth which may happen to have attracted line of action which you may not consider my personal attention are as nothing;, I un- conducive to your own interests, or to make derstand, to what is exhibited in Cariboo, any new promises on behalf of my Govern- Cassiar, and along the valley of the Stickeen, ment, or renew any old ones ; least of all and most grieved am I to think that I have have I a design to force upon you any fur- not had time to testify by my presence ther modification of those arrangements amongst them to the sympathy I feel with which were arrived at in 1874 between the the adventurous prospecter and the miner Provincial and the Dominion Governments in their arduous enterprises. I had also the under the auspices of Lord Carnarvon. satisfaction of having pointed out to me Should any business of this kind have to be where various lodes of silver only await perfected, it will be done in the usual con- greater facilities of access to be worked with stitutional manner through the Secretary of profit and advantage. But perhaps the State. But though I have thought it well greatest surprise in store for us was the dis- thus unmistakably and effectually to guard covery, on our exit from the pass through against my journey to the Province being the Cascade Range, of the noble expanse of misinterpreted, there is, I admit, one mission pastoral lands and the long vistas of fertile with which 1 am charged—a mission that is valleys which opened upon every side as we strictly within my functions to fulfil, name- advanced through the country, and which, ly, the mission of testifying by my presence as I could see with my own eyes, from vari- amongst you, and by my patient and re- ous heights we traversed, extended in rounded spectful attention to everything which may upland slopes or in in gentle depressions for be said to me, that the Government and the hundreds cf miles to the foot of the Rockv entire people of Canada, without distinction Mountains, proving after all that the moun- of party, are most sincerely desirous of cul- tain ranges which frown along your coast no tivating with you those friendly and affec- more accurately indicate the nature of the tionate relations, upon the existence of territory they guard, than does the wall of which must depeud the future harmony and breaking surf that roars along a tropic beach solidity of our common Dominion. Gentle- presage the softJy undulating sea that glit- men, this mission I think you will admit I ters in the sun beyond. But you will very have done my best to fulfil. I think you likely say to me, of what service to us are will bear me witness that I haye been inac- these resources which you describe, if they cessible to no one, that I have shown neither and we are to remain locked up in a distant impatience nor indifference during the con- and at present inaccessible corner of the Do- versations I have had with you, and that it 1876 ^EARL OF DUFFERIN. 77 would have been impossible for any one to contrairy with have exhibited more it, and with everybody anxiety thoroughly to connected with understand it, and you, in common with your views. I think it will be many other persons, have suffered further admitted that I have done in many this with- ways But though happily out in the slightest degree it is no part of seeking to dis- my duty to pronounce turb or embarrass the judgment in these march of your domes- 1 matters, or to approve, or blame, tic politics. I have treated the or criti- existing cize the conduct of any one Ministers as it became me to concerned, I treat the re- think that I can render sponsible advisers both Canada and of the Crown in this loca- British Columbia lity, and I some service bv speaking have shown that deference to their to certain matters of fact which have opponents which is always due taken to Her place within my own immediate Majesty's loyal Opposition. cognizance, Nay, further, and by thus removing I think it must have from your minds been observed that I certain wrong have impressions in regard betrayed no disposition either to create to those matters of fact which or to foment in what might be have un- termed doubtedly taken deep root though most incorrectly, here. Now gen- the interest of tlemen, in discharging oanada, this task—I may any discord or contrariety of in- almost call it a duty—I am terest between the mainland and sure my observa- the island tions will be received by such a mode of procedure those I see around would have been me in a candid nost unworthy, and loyal spirit, and that the for no true friend of the heats and [dominion passions which have been engen- would be capable of any other dered by these unhappy differences )bject or desire than to give universal will not satis- prove an impediment to a calm action to the Province as a whole. consideration A set- of what I am about to say, more lement of the pending controversy especially would as it will be my endeavour ndeed be most lamely conoluded to avoid wound- if it left ing any susceptibilities, ither of the sections or forcing upon your into which your com- attention aunity views or opinions which is geographically divided, unsatis- maybe ungrateful to you. Of course, i©d. Let me then assure you, I well under- on the part stand that the gravamen I the Canadian Governmment, of the charge and on the against the Canadian art of tne Government is that Canadian people at large, that it has failed to fulfil its treaty tiere is nothing they desire more engagements, earnestly lhese engagements were r more fervently than to know and embodied in a feel that solemn agreement which was ou are one with them in ratified by the heart, thought respective Legislatures nd feeling. Canada would of the contracting par- indeed be dead ties who were the most at the time perfectly inde- 3 self-evident considerations of pendent of each other, and I admit they 3li-interest, and to the first instincts thus of acquired all the characteristics ationa pride, if she did of an inter- not regard with national treaty. itisfaction The terms of that her connection with a Province were treaty (to omit the minor items) that ) richly endowed by nature, Canada inhabited by a undertook to secure, )mmumty so replete within two years from with British loyalty the date id pluck, of Union, the simultaneous com- while it afforded her the means mencement extending at either end of a railway her confines and the outlets which of was to connect the seaboard 3r commerce to the wide Pacific, and of British to the Columbia with the railway •untnes beyond. It is true, system of the circumstances Dominion and that ive arisen to such railway should be create an unfriendly and hos- completed le within ten years from feeling in your minds against Canada the date of Union in 1871. We are now ou consider yourselves injured, and in 1876, live you years have elapsed, and the rtamly have been disappointed. work of con- Far be it struction even at one end am me to belittle your can be said to have grievances, or to only just begun. eak slightingly Undoubtedly, under these of your complaints. Hap- circumstances ly my every one must allow independent position relieves me that Canada has failed to fulfil her )m the necessity of engaging with treaty obliga- you in tions towards Jfris ; Province y irritating discussion upon the ; but, unfor- various lately, Canada has been lntfj which are in controversy accused not only between of failing to accomplish is colony and the Dominion her undertakings, Government but what is a very i .differentt thing— the contrary, I am ready to make a wilful several breach of faith in having missions. I do not suppose neglected to do so. that in any vv ell, let us rt of consider for a moment Canada will it be denied, that whether you tins very serious assertion ve been subjected both to anxiety is true What and un- was the state of tamty on points things when the bargain was which were of vital im- made? -tance At that time everything in to you. From first to Canada last, since was prosperous; her i idea of a finances were flourishing- Pacific Railway was originated the ngs, discovery of the great North-West, to use a homely phrase, have so to gone speak, had inflamed her imagination ; above ;

78 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1876

in your own territory, all things, railway enterprise in the United own mountains and an impartial observer States, and generally on this continent, was and however deeply you in the miscar- being developed to an astounding extent. might sympathize with terms of the compact, One trans- continental railway had been suc- riage of the two time as the commence- cessfully executed, and several others on the one of which—namely, of the line in two years from 1871— same gigantic scale were being projected ; it ment of which—namely had come to be considered that a railway could has failed, and the others it is impos- be flung across the Rocky Mountains as rea- its completion in ten—must fail, yourselves are by no dily as across a hay field, and the ob- sible to forget that responsibility for such a servations of those who passed from New means without in what I must York to San Francisco did not suggest any result. It is quite true, spirit, you in- extraordinary obstacles to undertakings of admit to be a most generous that you did not this description. Unfortunately, one ele- timated in various ways Canada too strictly to the ment in the calculation was left entirely out desire to hold enagements as to time. Your of account, and that was the comparative letter of her were stated by ignorance which prevailed in regard to the expectations in this respect Mr. Trutch, mountain ranges and the mountain passes your late Lieutenant-Governor, though a very which intervened between the Hudson Bay very fairly and explicitly, of his words and Company's possessions and our western unfair use has been made ; that if unforeseen circum- coast. In the United States, for years and I have no doubt intervened you would have years, troops of emigrants had passed west- stances had not patience as could have ward to Salt Lake City, to Sacramento, and exhibited as much serious crisis trail been expected of you. But a to the Golden Gate ; every track and career of Canada. through the mountains was wayworn and supervened in the political office, and Mr. line in that Sir John Macdonald resigned well known ; the location of a power, and to all neighbourhood was predetermined by the Mackenzie acceded to incurred by Canada iu, experience of persons already well acquaint- the responsibilities your Province. Now it; ed with the locality. But in our case the respect to you and imagine with truth, that trans-continental passes were sparse and un- is asserted, and I his political friends had frequented, and from an engineering point Mr. Mackenzie and opposed to many portions of of view may be said to have been ab- always been British Columbia. under these cir- Canada's bargain with solutely unknown. It was | be considered in this cumstances that Canada undertook to com- It therefore came to the new Government wasaa mence her Pacific Railway in two years, and Province that the Pacific Railway. But 1 be- to finish it in ten. In doing this she un- enemy to aud to be, aconi-j doubtedly pledged herself to that which was lievethisto have been, I believe the Pacific a physical impossibility, for the moment the plete misapprehension. better friend in Canada thani engineers peered over the Rocky Mountains Railway has no and that he was only into your Province they saw at once that Mr. Mackenzie, time terms in the bargain, before any one passage through the devious opposed to the t them impossible of ac- range before them could be pronounced the because he believed and that a conscientious enJ best, an amount of preliminary surveying complishment, them would unnecessarily would have to be undertaken which it would deavour to fulfill increase the financial expendiJ require several years to complete. Now, and ruinously country, and in both these opi-l motto which says, ' Nemo ture of the there is a legal undoubtedly rightJ and I'would submit nions Mr. Mackenzie was tenatur ad, impossibile;' we now possess—and ol to you that under the circumstances 1 have With the experience be wise after the event-j mentioned, however gieat the default of course it is easy to dream of saying that tM Canada, she need not necessarily have been no one would have been surveyed, locatedJ guilty of any wilful breach of faith. I my- railway could the period named, or thai self am quite convinced that when Canada and built within might undertake to build ratified this bargain with you she acted in any company who that period would not havd perfect good faith, and fully believed that the line within and treble the bonus thai she would accomplish her promise, if not required double sufficient had its construe* all events within such a would have been within ten years, at leisurely tionbeen arranged for at a more sufficiently reasonable period as would satisfy ungene-l surely it would be both your requirements. The mistake she made rate ; but for BntishColumbia ti was in being too sanguine in her calculations; rous and unreasonable feelings towards M for- entertain any hostile but remember, a portion of the blame to this account, nor is he concluding a bargain impossible of accomf Mackenzie on opinion, if on entering offi plishment cannot be confined to one only of blamed, in my unexpected a manner he took time it. The mountains which in so the parties to which he would purs have proved our stumbling block were your consider the course —

1876 EAIIL OF DUFFERIN. 79

in regard to his mode of dealing with a annual expenditure. All that Lord Car- question of such enormous importance. His narvon did was to suggest that

position was undoubtedly a very embarrass- the proposed expenditure should . be ing one. His Government had inherited two millions instead of one and a half mil- responsibilities which he knew, and which lion, and that a time limit should be added. the country had come to know, could not be But, as you are well aware, this last con- discharged. Already British Columbia had dition was necessarily implied in the pro- commenced to cry out men for the fulfilment ceeding one relating to the annual expendi- of the bargain, and that at the very time that ture—for, once committed to that expendi- Canada had come to the conclusion that the ture, Canada in self-d.fence would be relaxation of some of its conditions' was obliged to hasten the completion of the line necessary. Out of such a condition of affairs in order to render ^reproductive the capital it was almost impossible but that there she sank. It is therefore but just to Lord should arise in the first place delay—for all Carnarvon that he should be absolved from changes of Government necessarily check the the responsibility of having been in any way progress of public business—and in the next, the inventor of what are known as the 'Car- friction, controversy, collision between the narvon terms.' Lord Carnarvon merely did Province and the Dominion. Happily it is what every arbitrator would do under the

not necessary that I should follow the course circumstances ; he found the parties already of that quarrel, or discuss the various points agreed in respect to the principal items of that were then contested. You cannot ex- the bargain, and was consequently relieved pect me to make any admission in respect from pronouncing on their intrinsic merits, to the course my Ministers may have and proceeded at once to suggest the further thought it right to pursue, nor would it be concession which would be necessary to gracious upon my part to criticize the action bring the Province into final accord with of your Province during this painful period. her opponent. In pursuance of this agree- Out of the altercation which then ensued ment the Canadian^Government organized a there issued, under the auspices of Lord series of surveying parties upon a most ex- Carnarvon, a settlement, and when an agree- tensive and costly scale. In fact, during the ment has been arrived at, the sooner the last two years two millions of money alone incidents connected with the conflict which have been expended upon these operations. preceded it are forgotten the better. Here, The chief engineer himself has told me that then, we have arrived at a new era ; the Mr. Mackenzie had given him carte blanche former laches of Canada, if any such there in the matter, so anxious was he to have Hhe had been, are condoned, and the two time route determined without delay, and that terms of the treaty are relaxed on the one the mountains were already as full of as part, while on the other certain specific many theodolites and surveyors as they could obligations were superadded to the main hold. I am aware it is asserted—indeed, as article in the original bargain ; that is to much has been said to me since I came here say—again omitting minor items—the Pro- that these surveys were multiplied in order vince agreed to the Pacific Railway being to furnish an excuse for further delays. completed in sixteen years from 1874, and Well, that is rather a hard saying. But to its being begun ' as soon as the surveys upon this point I can speak from my own shall have been completed,' instead of at a personal knowledge, and I am sure that fixed date, while the Dominion Government what I say on this head will be accepted a& undertook to construct at once a railway the absolute truth. During the whole of the from Esquimalt to Nanaimo, to hurry for- period under review I was in constant per- ward the surveys with the utmost possible sonal communication with Mr. Fleming, and despatch, and as soon as construction should was kept acquainted by that gentleman have begun, to spend two millions a year in with everything that was being done. I the prosecution of the work. I find that knew the position of every surveying party in this part of the world these arrange- in the area under examination. Now, Mr. ments have come to be known as the ' Car- Fleming is a gentleman in whose integrity narvon terms.' It is a very convenient and in whose professional ability every one I designation, and I am quite content to address has the most perfect confidence. adopt it on one condition, namely, that Mr. Fleming, of course, was the responsible Lord Carnarvon is not to be saddled with engineer who. planned those surveys aud de- any original responsibility in regard to termined the lines along which they were to any of these terms but one. be carried, and over and over again Mr. Flem- The main body of the terms are^Mr. Mac- ing has explained to me how unexpected kenzie's—that is to say, Mr. Mackenzie prof- were the difficulties he had to encounter; fered the Nanaimo and Esquimalt Railway, how repeatedly, after following hopefully a the telegraph line, the waggon road, and the particular route, his engineers found them-- 80 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1876 selves stopped by an impassable wall of with the Government, though I myself have mountain which blocked the way; and how no information on the point ; and I am trail after trail had to be examined and happy to see from the statistics furnished by abandoned before he had hit on auything like that journal, that not only has the entire line a practicable route. Even now, after all that to the Pacific been at last surveyed, located, has been done, a glance Jat the map will show graded, and its profile taken, but that the you how devious and erratic is the line calculated expenses of construction, though which appears to afford the only tolerable very great, and to be incurred only after exit from the labyrinthine ranges of the careful consideration, are far less than were Cascades. Notwithstanding, therefore, anticipated. Well, gentlemen, should the what has been bruited abroad in the sense indications we have received of the inten- to which I have alluded, I am sure it will be tions of the Government prove correct, you admitted—nay, I know it is admitted—that as are very much to be congratulated, for I am faras the prosecutionof the surveys is concern- well aware that the line to Bute Inlet is the ed Canada has used diligence—yes, more one which you have always favoured, and I than diligence—in her desire to comply should hope that now at least you will be with that section of the Carnarvon terms satisfied that the Canadian Government has relating to this particular. You must strained every nerve, as it undertook to do, remember that it is a matter of the greatest to fulfil to the letter its first and principal moment, involving the success of the entire obligation under the Carnarvon terms, by scheme, and calculated permanently to affect prosecuting with the utmost despatch the the future destiny of the people of Canada, surveys of the line to the Pacific coast. I that a right decision should be arrived at in only wish that Waddington Harbour, at the regard to the location of the Western por- head of the Inlet, was a better port. I confess tion of the line; and a Minister would be a to having but a very poor oponion of it, and traitor to a most sacred trust if he allowed certainly the acquaintance I have made with himself to be teased, intimidated, or cajoled Seymour Narrow's and the intervening chan- into any precipitate decision on such a mo- nel which will have to be bridged or ferried mentous point until every possible route had did not seem to me to be very favourable to been duly examined. When I left Ottawa either operation. Well, then, we now come the engineers seemed disponed to report that to the Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railway. I our ultimate choice would lie bet jveen one of am well aware of the extraordinary impor- two routes, both starting from Fort George tance you attach to this work, and of course —namely, that which leads to the head of I am perfectly ready to admit that its im- Dean's Canal, and that which terminates in mediate execution was promised to you in Bute Inlet. Of these two, the line to Dean's the most definite and absolute manner under Canal was the shortest by some 40 miles, Lord Carnarvon's arbitration. I am not, and was considerably the cheaper by reason therefore, surprised at the irritation and of its easier grades ; the ultimate exit of this excitement occasioned in this city by the channel to the sea was also more direct than non-fulfilment of this item in the agree- the tortuous navigation out of Bute Inlet; but ment—nay, I wish to go further ; I think it Mr. Mackenzie added—though you must not extremely natural that the miscarriage of take;what I am now going to say as a defi- this part of the bargain should have been nite conclusion on his part, or an authorita- provocative of very strenuous language and tive communication upon mine.—that provid- deeply embittered feelings ; nor am I sur- ed the difference in expense was not so great prised that, as is almost certain to follow on as to forbid it, he would desire to adopt what such occasions, you should, in your vexation, might be the less advantageous route from put a very injurious construction on the the Dominion point of view, in order to fol- conduct of those who had undertaken to low that line which would most aptly meet realize your hopes. But stiil I know that I the requirements of the Province. Without am addressing high-minded and rea- pronouncing an opinion on the merits of sonable men, and moreover that either of the routes, which it is no part of you are perfectly convinced that I would my business to do, I may venture to say that sooner cut my right hand off than utter a in this principle I think Mr. Mackenzie is single word that I do not know to be an right, and that it would be wise and gene- absolute truth. Two years have passed rous of Canada to consult the local interests since the Canadian Government undertook of British Columbia by bringing the line and to commence the construction of the Esqui- its terminus within reach of existing settle- malt and Nanaimo Railway, and the Na- meats if it can be done without any undue naimo Railway is not even commenced, and sacrifice of public money. From a recent what is more, there does not at present seem article in the Globe it would seem as though the remotest prospect of its being com- the Bute Inlet line had finally found favour menced. What then is the history of the 1876 EARL OF DUFFERIN. IS'

oase, and who is answerable for your dis- force of circumstances, you had been exposed* appointment ? I know you consider Mr. When the Bill had passed the House of Com- Mackenzie. I am not here to defend Mr. mons by a large majority, with the assent Mackenzie, his policy, his proceedings, or his of the leader of the Opposition, in common utterances. I hope this will be clearly un- with every one else, I concluded it was safe, derstood. In anything I have hitherto said and the adverse vote of the Senate took me I have done nothing of this sort, nor do I as much by surprise as it did you and the intend to do so. I have merely stated to rest of the world. I saw Mr. Mackenzie the you certain matters with which I thought, it next day, and I have seldom seen a man

well for you to be acquainted, because they more annoyed or disconcerted than he was ; have been misapprehended; and what I now indeed, he was driven at that interview to tell you are also matters of fact within my protest with more warmth than he has ever own cognizance, and which have no relation used against the decision of the English to Mr. Mackenzie as the hea d of a political Government, which had refused* on the opi* party, and I tell them to y> u not only in nion of the law officers of the Crown, to allow your own interest, but in the interest of him to add to the members of the Senate public morality and English honour. In ac- after Prince Edward Island had entered Con- cordance with his engagements to you in re- federation. 'Had I been permitted,' he lation to the Nanaimo and Esquimalt Rail- said to me, ' to have exercised my rights in as that respect this way, Mr. Mackenzie introduced so soon would not have happened ; it was possible a Bill into the Canadian but how can these mischances be prevented House of Commons, the clauses of which in a body, the majority of which, having were admitted by your representatives in been nominated by my political opponent, Parliament fully to discharge his obligations is naturally hostile to me ?' Now, gentle- to yourselves and to Lord Carnarvon in res- men, your acquaintance with Parliamentary pect of that undertaking, and carried it Government must tell you that this last ob- through the Lower House by a large ma- servation of Mr. Mackenzie's was a perfectly jority. I have reason to think that many of just one. But my attention has been drawn his supporters voted for the Bill with very to the fact that two of Mr. Mackenzie's party great misgivings both as to the policy of the supported his Conservative opponents in the

measure and the intrinsic merits of the rail- rejection of the Bill ; but surely you do not

way ; but their leader had pledged himself imagine that a Prime Minister can deal with to exercise his parliamentary influence to his supporters in the Senate as if they were pass it, and they very properly carried it a regiment of soldiers. In the House of through for him. It went up to the Senate, Commons he has a better chance of main- and was thrown out by that body by a taining party discipline, for the constituen- majority of two. Well, I have learnt with cies are very apt to resent any insubordina- regret that there is a very widespread con- tion on the part of their members towards viction in this community that Mr. Mac- the leader of their choice. But a Senator is kenzie had surreptitiously procured the de- equally independent of the Crown, the feat of his own measure in the Upper House. Minister, or the people; and as in the House Had Mr. Mackenzie dealt so treacherously of Lords at home, so in the Second Chamber by Lord Carnarvon, by the representative of in Canada, gentlemen will run from time to his Sovereign in this country, or by you, he time on the wrong side of the post. But it would have been guilty of a most atrocious has been observed—granting that the two act, of which I trust no public man in Can- members in question did not vote as they ada or in any other British colony could be did at Mr. Mackenzie's instigation—he has capable. I tell you in the most emphatic exhibited his perfidy in not sending in his terms, and I pledge my own honour on the resignation as soon as the Senate had pro- point, that Mr. Mackenzie was not guilty of nounced against the Bill. Now, gentlemen, any such base and deceitful conduct. Had I you cannot expect me to discuss Mr. Mac-

thought him guilty of it, either he would kenzie's conduct in that respect ; it would

have ceased to be Prime Minister, or I should be very improper for me to do so ; but have left the country. But the very con- though I cannot discuss Mr. Mackenzie's trary was the fact. While these events conduct, I am perfectly at liberty to tell were passing I was in constant personal com- you^what I myself should have done had munication with Mr. Mackenzie. I natu- Mr. Mackenzie tendered to me his resigna- rally watched the progress of the Bill with tion. I should have told him that in my the greatest anxiety, because I was aware of opinion such a course was quite unjustifiable, the eagerness with which the Act was de- that as the House of Commons was then sired in Victoria, and because I had long felt constituted I saw no prospect of the Queen's the deepest sympathy with you in the suc- Government being advantageously carri d on cession of disappointments to which, by the except under his leadership; and that weref he 82 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1876

to resign at that time the greatest inconve- You have got no right to describe yourselves nience and detriment would ensue to the pub- as a second time the victims of a broken lic service. That is what I should have said agreement. As I have shown you, the per- to Mr. Mackenzie in the event contemplated, sons who had entered into an engagement in and I have no doubt that the Parliament regard to this railway with you and Lord and the people of Canada would have con- Carnarvon had done their very best to dis- firmed my decision. But it has been fur- charge their obligation. But the Senate, thermore urged that Mr. Mackenzie ought who counteracted their intention, had given to have reintroduced the Bill. Well, that is no preliminary promises whatever, either to again a point I cannot discuss ; but I may I you or to the Secretary of State. They re- tell you this, that if Mr. Mackenzie had done jected the Bill in ; the legitimate exercise of so, I. very much doubt that he would their constitutional functions [ ; and there is it have succeeded in carrying a second , nothing more to be said on this head, so far time even in the House of Commons. The as that body is concerned, either j by you or fact is that Canada at large, whether rightly i Lord Carnarvon, for I need not assure you

or wrongly I do not say, has unmistakably I that there is not the slightest chance that shown its approval of the vote in the Senate. any Secretary of State in Downing-street An opinion has come to prevail from one end would attempt anything so unconstitutional of the Dominion to the other—an opinion —so likely to kindle a flame throughout the which I find is acquiesced in by a consider- whole Dominion—as to coerce the free legis- able proportion of the inhabitants of British lative action of her Legislature. But there Columbia—that the Nanaimo and Esquimalt is one thing I admit the Senate has done, it Railway cannot stand upon its own merits, has revived in their integrity those original and that its construction as a Government treaty obligations on the strength of which enterprise would be, at all events at you were induced to enter Confederation, present, a useless expenditure of the and it has reimposed upon Mr. Mackenzie public money. Now, again, let me and his Government the obligation of offer- assure you that I am not presuming to convey ing you an equivalent for that stipulation in to you any opinion of my own on this much the Carnarvon terms which he has not been contested point. Even did I entertain any able to make good. Now, from the very misgivings on the subject, it would be very strong language which has been used in re- ungracious for me to parade them in your gard to the conduct of Mr. Mackenzie, a presence, and on such an occasion. I am bystander would be led to imagine that as merely communicating to you my conjecture soon as his Railway Bill had miscarried, he why it is that Mr. Mackenzie has shown no cynically refused to take any further action signs- of his intention to reintroduce the Na- in the matter. Had my Government done naimo and Esquimalt Railway Bill into so they would have exposed themselves to Parliament—viz., because he knew he had no the severest reprehension, and such conduct chance of getting it passed. Well, then, would have been ;joth faithless to you and gentlemen, of whom and what have you to disrespectful to Lord Carnarvon ; but so far complain ? Well, you have every right from from having acted in this manner, Mr. Mac- your point of view to complain of the Cana- kenzie has offered you a very considerable dian Senate. You have a right to say that grant of money in consideration of your dis- after the Government of tie day had pro- appointment. Now, here again I will not mised that a measure upon which a majority touch upon the irritating controversies which of the inhabitants of an important Province have circled round this particular step in had set their hearts, should be passed, it was these transactions. I am well aware that ill-advised and unhandsome of that body not you consider this offer to have been made to confirm the natural expectation which under conditions of which you have reason had been thus engendered in your breasts, to complain. If this has been the case it is especially when that work was itself offered most unfortunate, but still, whatever may as a solatium to you for a previous injury. I have been the sinister incidents connected fully admit that it is a very grave step for with the past, the one solid fact remains either House of the Legislature, and particu- that the Canadian Government has offered larly for that which is not the popular you $750,000 in lieu of the railway. This branch, to disavow any agreement into which sum has been represented to me as totally the Executive may have entered, except inadequate, and as very far short of an under a very absolute sense of public duty. equivalent. It may be so, or it may not be. Mind, I am not saying that thia is not such Neither upon that point will I offer an opi- a case; but I say that you have got a per- nion, but still I may mention to you the prin- fect right, from your own point of view, not ciple upon which the sum has been arrived so to regard it. But, gentlemen, that is all. at. Under the Nanaimo and Esquimalt You have got no right to go beyond that. Railway Bill, whose rejection by the Senate —

187G EARL OF DUFFERIN. we have been considering, Canada was to formation has been sent over to Europe in re- contribute a bonus of $10,000 a mile. The gard to every section of the country through total distance of the line is about 70 miles which it passes ; several thousand miles of consequently the $750,000 is nothing more the stipulated telegraph have been laid down; nor less than this very bonus converted into and now that the westerm terminus seems to a lump sum. Now, since I have come here have been determined—though upon this it has been represented to me by the friends point I have myself no information of the railway that it is a line which is capa- tenders I imagine will be called for almost ble of standing on its own merits, and that a immediately. Whatever further steps may company had been almost induced to take be necessary to float the undertaking as a it up some time ago as an unsubsidized enter- commercial enterprise will be adopted, and prise. Nay, only yesterday the local paper, the promised waggon road will necessarily which is the most strenuous champion for follow pari passu with construction. Well, the line, asserted that it could be built for then, gentlemen, how will you stand under

$2,000,000 ; that the lands—which with the these circumstances ? You will have got •$750,000 were tu be replaced by Mr. Mac- your line to Bute Inlet. Now I will com- kenzie at your disposal—were worth several municate to you a conclusion I have arrived millions more, and that the railway itself at from my visit to that locality. If the would prove a most paying concern. If this Pacific Railway once comes to Bute Inlet it is so—and what better authority can I refer cannot stop there. It may pause there for a to—is it not obvious that the bonus proposal considerable time, until Caradian trans- of the Dominion Government assumes at Pacific traffic with Aus-tralia, China and least the semblance'of a fair offer ; and even Japan shall have begun|to expand ; but such if you did not consider it absolutely up to a traffic once set going, WaddingtOn the mark, it should not have been denounced Harbour will no longer serve as a terminal in the very strong language which has been port—in fact it is no harbour at all, and used. However, I do not wish to discuss I scarcely an anchorage—the railway must be thepointwhetherthe $750,000 was a sufficient prolonged, under these circumstances, to offer or not. All that I would venture to Esquimalt— that is to say, if the deliberate submit is that Mr. Mackenzie, having been opinion of the engineers should pronounce thwarted in his bona fide endeavour to fulfil the operation feasible, and Canada shall in his special item in the Carnarvon terms, has tha meantime have acquired the additional adopted the only course left to him in pro- financial stability which would justify her posing to discharge his obligations by a undertaking what, under any circumstances, money payment. I confess I should have must prove one of the most gigantic achieve- thought this would be the most natural solu- ments the world has ever witnessed. In tion of the problem, and that the payment that case, of course, the Nanaimo Railway of a sum of money equivalent to the measure springs into existence of its own accord, and of Mr. Mackenzie's original obligation, to be you will then be in possession both of your expended under whatever conditions would money compensation and of the thing for be most immediately advantageous to the which it was paid, and with this result I do Province, and ultimately beneficial to the not think you should be ill satisfied. But Dominion, would not have been an unnatural should the contrary be the case, the prospect remedy for the misadventure which has stul- is indeed a gloomy one ; should hastycoun- tified this special stipulation in regard to the sels and the exhibition of an impracticable Nanaimo and .Esquimalt Railway; but, of spirit throw these arrangements into con- course, of these matters you yourselves are fusion, interrupt or change our present the best judges, and I certainly have not the railway programme, and necessitate any re- slightest desire to suggest to you any course arrangement of your political relations, I which you may think contrary to your in- fear Victoria would be the chief sufferer. I terests. My only object in touching upon scarcely like to allude to such a contingency, them at all is to disabuse your minds of the nor, gentlemen, are my observations directed idea that there has been any intention upon immediately to you ; for I .know very well the part of Mr. Mackenzie, his Government, that neither do those whom I am addressing, or of Canada, to break their faith with you. nor do the great majority of the inhabitants Every single item of the Carnarvon terms is of Vancouver Island or of Victoria, partici- at this moment in the course of fulfilment. pate in the views to which I am about to

At enormous expense the surveys have been refer ; but still a certain .number of your pressed forward to completion ; the fifty mil- fellow- citizens-^-gentlemen with whom I liave lions of land and the thirty millions of money had a great deal.of pleasant and interesting to be provided for by Canada under the Bill conversation^ and who have shown to me are ready ; the profiles of the main line have personally the. greatest kindness and courtesy been taken out, and the most elaborate in- —have sought to impress me with the belief '

84 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1876

if Legislature of Canada is not com- that the should be realized ! I believe the gentlemen pelled by some means or other, which, how- I have referred to are the very last who ever, they do not specify, to make forthwith would desire to see the fulfilment of their these 70 miles of railway, they will be strong menaces, and I hope they will forgive me enough, in the face of Mr. Mackenzie's offer if I am not intimidated by their formidable of a money equivalent, to take British Co- representations. When some pertinacious lumbia out of the Confederation. Well, they philosopher insisted on assailing the late certainly will not be able to do that. I am King of the Belgians with a rhapsody on the now in a position to judge for myself as beauties of a Republican Government, Hi& real sentiments of the com- ' to what are the Majesty replied : You forget, sir, I am a munity. I will even presume to say that I Royalist, by profession.' Well a Governor- know immeasurably more about it General is a Federalist by profession, and then these gentlemen themselves. When you might as well expect the Sultan of once the main line of the Pacific Rail- Turkey to throw up his cap for the Com- way is under weigh, the whole population of mune as the Viceroy of Canada to entertain the mainland would be perfectly contented a suggestion for the disintegration of the with the present situation of affairs, and will Dominion. I hope, therefore, they will not never dream of detaching their fortunes from bear me any ill-will for having declined to r those of Her Majesty's great Dominion. Nay, bow my head beneath their ' Separation I do not believe that these gentlemen would arch. It was a very good-humoured, and be able to persuade their fellow-citizens even certainly not a disloyal, bit of ' bounce of the Island of Vancouver to so violent a which they had prepared for me. I suppose course. But granting for the moment that they wished me to know they were the their influence should prevail, what would ' arch ' enemies of Canada. Well, I have be the result ? British Columbia would still made them an arch reply. But, gentlemen, be part and parcel of Canada. The great of course I am not serious in discussing such work of Confederation would not be per- a contingency as that to which I have referred. ceptibly affected. But the proposed line Your numerical weakness as a community is of the Pacific Railway might possibly be your real strength, for it is a consideration deflected south. New Westminister would which appeals to every generous heart. Far certainly become the capital of the Province; be the day when on any acre of soil above the Dominion would naturally use its best which floats the flag of England mere ma- endeavours to build it up into a flourishing terial power, brute political preponderance, and prosperous city. It would be the seat should be permitted to decide such a contro- of Government and. the home of justice, as versy as that which we are discussing. It is well as the chief social centre of the Pacific to men like yourselves, who, with unquailing coast. Burrard Inlet would become a great fortitude and heroic energy, have planted commercial port, and the miners of Cariboo, the laws and liberties, and the blessed in- with their stores of gold dust, would spend fluence of English homes amidst the^wiHs their festive and open-handed winters there. and rocks and desert plains of savage bands, Great Britain would of course retain Esqui- that England owes the enhancement of her malt as a naval station on this coast as she prestige, the diffusion of her tongue, the in- has retained Halifax as a naval station on crease of her commerce and her ever- widen- the other, and inasmuch as a constituency of ing renown, and woe betide the Government some 1,500 persons would not be able to or the statesman who, because its inhabitants supply the material for a Parliamentary Gov- are few in number and politically of small ernment, Vancouver and its inhabitants, who account, should disregard the wishes or care- are now influential by reason of their intelli- lessly dismiss the representations, however gence rather than their numbers, would be bluff, boisterous, or downright, of the ruled as Jamaica, Malta. Gibraltar, Heligo- feeblest of our distant colonies. No, gentle- land and Ascencion are ruled, through the men, neither England nor Canada would be instrumentality of some naval or other content or happy in any settlement that was officer. Nanaimo would become the not arrived at with your own hearty approval principal town of the island, and and consent, and equally satisfactory to

Victoria would lapse for many a long year every section of your Province ; but w e into the condition of a village, until the appeal to moderation and practical good development of your coal fields and the sense to assist us in resolving the present growth of a healthier sentiment had prepared difficulty. The genius of the English race the way for its re-incorporation with the has ever been too robust and sensible to

rest of the Province ; at least, that is the admit the existence of an irreconcilable horoscope I should draw for it in the contin- element in its midst. It is only among gency contemplated by these gentlemen. weak and hysterical populations that such a But God forbid that any such prophecy growth can flourish. However hard the 1S76 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 85

blows given and taken during the contest, been done : no Government, whether Pro- Britishers always find a means of making up vincial or Central, has failed to acknowledge the quarrel, and such I trust will be the that the original title to the land existed in case on the present occasion. My functions the Indian tribes and communities that as a constitutional ruler are simply to super- hunted or wandered over them. Before we intend tho working of the political machine, touch an acre we make a treaty with the but not to intermeddle with its action. I chiefs representing the bands we are dealing, trust that I have observed that rule on the with, and having agreed upon and paid the present occasion, and that although I have stipulated price, oftentimes arrived at after addressed you at considerable length, I have a great deal of haggling and difficulty, we not said a word which it has not been strict- enter into possession, but not until then do we ly within my province to say, or have in- consider that we are entitled to deal with an truded on those domains which are reserved acre. The result has been that in Canada for the action of my responsible advisers. our Indians are contented, well affected to As I warned you would be the case, I have the white man, and amenable to the laws made no announcement. I have made no and Government. At this very moment the promise, I have hazarded no opinion upon Lieut. -Governor of Manitoba has gone on a any of the administrative questions now oc- distant expedition in order to make a treaty cupying the joint attention of yourselves and with the tribes to the northward of the the Dominion. I have only endeavoured to Saskatchewan. Last year he made two correct some misapprehensions by which you treaties with the Crees and Chippeways, have been possessed in regard to matters of next year it has been arranged that he historical fact, and I have testified to the should make a treaty with the Blackfeet, kind feeling entertained for you by your and when this is done the British Crown fellow-subjects in Canada, and to the desire will have acquired a title to every acre that of my Government for the re-establishment lies between Lake Superior and the top of of the friendliest and kindliest relations the Rocky Mountains.* But in ^British between you and themselves, and I trust Columbia—except in a few places where, that I may carry away with me the convic- under the jurisdiction of the Hudson Bay tion that from henceforth a less angry and Company or under the auspices of Sir James irritated feeling towards Canada will have Douglass, a similar practice has been adopt- been inaugurated than has hitherto subsist- ed—the Provincial Government has always ed. Of my own earnest desire to do every- assumed that the fee simple in as well as thing I can, and to forward your views so the sovereignty over the land resided in the far as they may be founded in justice and Queen. Acting upon this principle they reason, I need not speak. My presence have granted extensive grazing leases, here, and the way in which I have spent my and otherwise so dealt with various sections time, will have convinced you of what has of the country as greatly to restrict or inter- been the object nearest my heart. I can- fere with the prescriptive rights of the not say how glad I am to have come, or how Queen's Indian subjects. As a consequence, much I have profited by my visit, and I as- there has come to exist an unsatisfactory sure you none of the representations with feeling amongst the Indian population. In- which I have been favoured will escape my timations of this reached me at Ottawa two memory or fail to be duly submitted in the or three years ago, and since I have come in- proper quarter. And now, gentlemen, I to the Province my misgivings on the subject must bid you good-bye, but before doing so have been confirmed. Now, I consider that bhere is one other topic upon which I am our Indian fellow-subjects are entitled to desirous of touching. From my first arrival exactly the same civil rights under the law in Canada I have been very much preoc- as are possessed by the white population, and cupied with the condition of the Indian that if an Indian can prove a prescriptive population in this Province. You must re- right of way to a fishing station, or a right member that the Indian population are not of any other kind, that that right should no represented in Parliament, and, consequent- more be ignored than if it was the case of a ly, that the Governor-General is bound to white man. I am well aware that among the watch over their welfare with especial coast Indians the land question does not solicitude. Now, we must all admit that the present the same characteristics as in other condition of the Indian question in British parts of Canada, or as it does in the grass Columbia is not satisfactory. Most unfortu- countries of the interior of this Province ; nately, as I think, there has been an initial but I have also been able to understand that error ever since Sir James Douglass quitted in these latter districts it may be even more )ffice, in the Government of British Colum- necessary to deal justly and liberally with bia neglecting to recognize what is known as the Indian in regard to his land rights than he Indian title. In Canada this has always on the prairies of the North-West. I am "

*; (THE SPEECHES OF THE 1876

very happy that the British Columbian amount of vital power you will have added Government should have recognized the to your present strength. But I must not necessity of assisting the Dominion Govern- keep you longer. I thank you most heartily ment in ameliorating the present condition for your patience and attention. (Most ear. of affairs in this respect, and that it has nestly do I desire the accomplishment of all agreed to the creation of a joint Commission your aspirations, and if ever I have the good for the purpose of putting the interests of fortune to come to British Columbia again, I the Indian population on a more satisfactory hope it may be by— rail. footing. Of course, in what I have said I AT OTTAWA, ON HIS RETURN. do not mean that in our desire to be humane [Delivered in reply to an address of con- and to act justly we should do anything gratulation from the City Council on the 23rd unreasonable or Quix tic, or that rights of October.] already acquired by white men should be " Gentlemen, —It is with feelings of no inconsiderately invaded or recalled ; but I ordinary emotion that I accept this fresh and would venture to put the Government of unexpected mark of your confidence and good British Columbia on its guard against the will. Glad as I may be to find myself at home fatal eventualities which might arise should again, after so many months of travel, the a sense of injustice provoke the Indian po- warm welcome which has been prepared for pulation to violence or into a collision with me by yourselves, and the citizens of Otta- our scattered settlers. Probably there has wa,sheds an additional brightness over my re- gone forth amongst them very incorrect and turn. My visit to British^Columbia has been exaggerated information of the warlike both gratifying and instructive. Nothing achievements of their brethren in Dakotah, could have been more kind or cordial than and their uneducated minds are incapable the welcome extendedto me personally by its of calculating chances. Of course, there is inhabitants, or more universal or genuine no danger of any serious or permanent re- than the loyalty of all classes in the Province volt, but it must be remembered that even towards the Throne and Person of Her an accidental collision in which blood was Majesty. Of course you are aware that shed might have a most disastrous effect there are certain matters in controversy be- upon our present satisfactory relations with tween the Local Government of the Province the warlike tribes in the North- West, whose and my own responsible advisers, but on no amity and adhesion to our system of govern- occasion, from the time that I landed till the ment is so essential to the progress of the time that I took my departure, did the Bri- Pacific Railway; and I make this appeal, as I tish Columbia people allow this circumstance may call it, with all the more earnestness to aff°ct the friendliness of their bearing to- since I have convinced myself of the degree wards the representative of their Sovereign. to which, if properly dealt with, the Indian I do not presume to hope that my visit to population might be made to contribute to the West will have been productive of much the development of the wealth and re- practical result, so far as the disputes to sources of the Province. I have now seen which I have alluded are concerned. Their them in all phases of their existence, settlement will depend upon other consider- from the half-naked savage, perched ations, and will be provided for under the like a bird of prey in a red blanket advice of the responsible Ministers of the upon a rock, trying to catch his Crown at Victoria and Ottawa; but I have miserable dinner of fish, to the neat Indian no hesitation in saying that my presence maidens in Mr. Duncan's school at Matlah- amongst your fellow»countrymen on the katlah, as modest and well dressed as any other side of the Rocky Mountains has been clergyman's daughter in an English parish, universally regarded as a proof and pledge of or to the shrewd horse riding Siwash of the the friendliness and goodwill felt for them Thompson Valley, with his racers in training by the people of Canada at large, and I am for the Ashcroft Stakes, and as proud of his quite certain that any reasonable effort upon stackyard and turnip field as a British squire. the part of the Dominion, and the exhibition In his first condition it is evident he is scarce- of that generosity of feeling which is due ly a producer or a consumer ; in his second, from a great community to a feebler neigh- he is eminently both; and in proportion as bour, will not fail to restore that perfect he can be raised to the higher level of civil- harmony and intimate union in thought and ization will be the degree to which he will feeling between British Columbia and her contribute to the vital energies of the Pro- sister Provinces* which is so essential to the vince. What you want are not resources, strength and permanence of our Confedera- but human beings to develop them and con- tion. (Cheers.) In conclusion, gentlemen, sume them. Raise your 30,000 Indians to I cannot help adding one word of congratu- the level Mr. Duncan has taught us they can lation on the admirable appearance made by be brought, and consider what an enormous Canada at the Centennial Exhibition, from "

1877 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 87 whence I have just come. Whether we take India, in the proud consciousness that you into account the variety of our products, are a member of that great Anglo-Saxon their intrinsic value, the degree to which race whose enterprise has invaded every re« they are destined to promote the expansion gion, whose children have colonized two con- of our wealth, trade and commerce, or tinents, whose language is spoken by one- whether we consider the admirable method third of civilized mankind, whose industry and completeness with which they have been throngs the markets of the globe, and whose displayed under the supervision of our Com- political cenius has developed the only suc- missioners, we must be equally struck with cessful form of Constitutional Government the effective share which Canada has taken in as yet known to the nations of the earth. enhancing the attractions of the Centennial (Great applause.) show. There can be no doubt but that these AT THE NATIONAL CLUB, TORONTO. proofs of our resources and prospects have [Delivered in reply to the toast of his made the most favourable impression upon health, proposed by Mr. John Gillespie, Vice- our neighbours in the United States. In President, on the 12th of January. many respects they acknowledge, with a " Gentlemen,—I assure you it is with feel- generosity which well becomes them, that ings of the deepest gratitude that I rise to we are their masters, and the many prizes acknowledge the kind and cordial manner in we have taken away, especially in the agri- which you have been good enough to drink cultural competitions, have completely borne my health. Such tokens as those which you out their appreciation of our eminence. have just exhibited of your confidence and

(Cheers. ) Indeed I may say I am never al- kind feelings are a most welcome encourage- lowed to enter the United States without ment to any one in my situation, for it gives being made to feel with what kindly feelings me the assurance that I have not failed in we are regarded by that great people whose that which is one of the dearest and most own extraordinary development is one of the anxious desires of my heart, namely, to se- marvels of the age. Wherever I go I never cure the goodwill and attachment of those I fail to meet with the greatest courtesy and have been commissioned by my Sovereign to consideration, which I gladly recognize as a serve. (Cheers.) Precluded, as the repre- tribute not to myself, but to the Canadian sentative of the Crown necessarily is by the nationality I represent, whom the people of very essence of his duty, from the slightest the States are always anxious to honour in appearance of a desire or design to place my person. (Cheers.) At no period in the himself in sympathy with any phase of po- * history of the world has those bonds of sym- litical enthusiasm, or with the special predi- pathy and affection by which the members lections of any section of the community, of the great Anglo-Saxon race are inde- however numerous or well inspired; reduced structibly united, been drawn closer or ren- as his functions are to those rather of a nega- dered more sensibly apparent than at the tive than of a positive character, and unsen- present moment. The many proofs given by sational as is the routine of his ordinary du- England of her friendly feeling towards the ties, there necessarily remain but people of the United States have found their very few points at which he can crowning expression in the noble way she come into anything like intimate or has associated herself with them in celebrat- harmonious contact with those to ing the Centennial year of their existence as the promotion of whose interests, an independent community,and nowhere has happiness and welfare the energies of his life her Imperial dignity been more fitly or appro- are nevertheless directed. (Hear, hear.) priately displayed than beneath the lucent Under these circumstances his pleasure and roof of the Philadelphia Exhibition, where she his pride is all the greater when he finds that sits enthroned amid her native treasures, his silent, obscure, and unostentatious efforts and surrounded by the crowd of loyal co- to do his duty and co benefit the country lonies through whose intei'vention she not with which he is connected have attracted only extends her sceptre to the four quar- the notice or commendation of those whose ters of the world, but has everywhere estab- esteem it is his ambition to win and preserve. lished Parliamentary Government institu- His principal achievements probably consist tions, and laid deep the foundations of an rather in preventing mischief than in accom-

imperishable freedom. (Cheers.) Facing plishing any substantial good ; and, even in her in generous emulation stands the United regard to his public speeches, which more States, backed by the wealth of her virgin than anything else communicate some little territories and the inventions of htr inge- substance to his shadowy individuality, as I nsous artificers, and as you traverse the build- observed the other day to the Town Council, ing from end to end, you almost forget to re- the best part of them, to a-} opt the privilege member whether you be English, Canadian, of my country, are those which have been Australasian, American, from Africa, or from left out. (Great laughter.) In fact, the 88 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1877 head of the State in a constitutional regime the thinking men of both countries. Her is the depositary of what, though undoubt- school systems, her federal arrangements, edly a very great, is altogether a latent her municipal * institutions, her maritime power—a power which, under the auspices of regulations, have repeatedly been cited in wise parliamentary statesmanship, is never recent years by English statesmen of autho- suffered to become active, and his ordinary rity and distinction as worthy of imitation. duties are very similar to those of the humble (Cheers.) As for the United States, although functionary we see superintending the work- they may be too proud to own it, there is not ing of some complicated mass of steam-driven a citizen of the neighbouring republic who machinery. (Laughter.) This personage does not envy the smooth and harmonious merely walks about with a little tin vessel working of our well-balanced and happily- of oil in his hand (renewed laughter) —and he adjusted institutions (Applause.) Of one pours in a drop here and a drop there, as thing I am quite sure, that there is not an occasion or the creaking of a joint may re- American politician between the Atlantic quire, while his utmost vigilance is directed and the Pacific who would not at the present to no higher aim than the preservation of his moment be content to give half his fortune, wheels and cogs from the intrusion of dust, and perhaps a great deal more, to possess grits, or other foreign bodies. (Roars of that most serviceable and useful thing, a laughter, which were renewed again and Governor-General. (Great laughter.) In- again. ) There, gentlemen, what was I say- deed the acquisition by the United States of ing? See how easily an unguarded tongue so valuable a personage has of late come to can slip into an ambiguous expression (up- appear of such prime necessity, roarious laughter) —an expression which I need would prove such an obvious mode not assure you on this occasion is entirely of solving their personal difficulties innocent of all political significance. (Laugh- and of remedying' ! the defects of their ter. ) But I must say that, far from having Governmental machine, that I have been cause to complain of my humble efforts, such extremely nervous (laughter) about passing as they were, not having been duly appre- so near the border as I had to do on my way ciated, I am only too sensible that your kind- hither. There is no knowing what might ness, and the general instincts of the people happen in the case of people under such a of Canada to take the will for the deed, has stress of temptation. (Renewed laughter.) created for me an amount of goodwill and Raids have been prompted sometimes by approval far beyond my deserts, of which love as well as hate. (Laughter. ) In fact, such entertainments as the present, and the the tame ceremonies of modern marriage are plea ant things said at them, is the agreeable but the emasculated reproduction of the far exhibition. (Cheers.) Anybody would in- more spirited principle of capture (great deed be dead to every sentiment of gratitude laughter) by which brides in less sophisti- in whose heart such tokens of confidence did cated ages were obtained. Who knows to not arouse a still more earnest desire to do what lengths Mr. Tilden and Mr. Hayes and his duty, and to strain every nerve in the the millions of their respective adherents service of those who are so ready to condone now drawn up in hostile array against each his shortcomings and to reward his exer- other might not be driven in the agony of tions. (Loud applause.) And, gentlemen, their present suspense ! (Laughter.) A here I must be permitted to say that I consi- British Governor-General ! What a cutting

ir, der as no small part of my good foitune that of the Gordion knot ! (Great laughter. ) And my connection with Canada should have oc- so near too: just across the water. A gun- curred at a moment when probably she is in boat and a sergeant's guard, and the thing is the act of making one of the greatest strides done. (Continued laughter.) And then towards the establishment of her prestige, think what they get m him ! A person dis- stability, and importance which has hitherto sociated from all sectional interests, preju- been recorded in her history. (Cheers.) dices, and passions (hear, hear)—who can Even a casual observer cannot have failed to never become stronger than the people's Par- mark the decisive manner in which she is liaments or divide the national vote. (Ap- gradually asserting her position as one of the plause.) A representative of all that is most important communities in the civilized august, stable, and sedate in the govern- world. (Great applause.) This circum- ment, the history, and the traditions of the stance has had a very visible effect both upon country, incapable of partizanship, and lifti d the public opinion of England and of the far above the atmosphere of faction, without United States. In spite o? that preoccupa- adherents to reward or opponents to ou3t tion with their own affairs natural to all coun- from office, docile to the suggestions of his tries, Canada on several occasions has not Ministers, and yet securing to the people the merely attracted the sympathies, but has certainty of being able to get rid of an Ad- compelled the admiration and attention of ministration, or Parliament, the moment ) )

1877 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 89 either had forfeited their confidence. devotion to the Queen, as the type and living (Applause.) Really, gentlemen, I think I representative of constitutional freedom, of had better remove nearer to the North Pole well-ordered government, of a renowned (great laughter), for I am sure you will be- historical past and a hopeful future, is the lieve me when I say that after having been ruling passion of Englishmen all over the made to feel for so many years how good and world. (Cheers.) But with this national, kind are the people of Canada (great cheer- normal, and abiding principle, rooted as it is ing), having had an opportunity of appre- for all time in the hearts of our countrymen ciating how high an honour it is to be con- (hear, hear), there is undoubtedly intertwined nected with a Dominion so full of hope, with a tenderer sentiment—a sentiment of chival- such a glorious prospect before her (great rous personal devotion towards that Sove- cheering), I shall never be induced, even reign Lady who, in her early girlhood, was under the stress of violence (laughter) and a called upon to preside over the destinies of ' chequered life, as threat of being bulldozed ' (loud laughter) so vast an Empire—whose to sit for one moment longer than I can help maiden, wife, and widow, has been so inti- in the Presidential chair of the United States. mately associated with every phase of the (Laughter and cheers.) Should I go, you private as well as the public existence of may expect me back by the underground each one of us (hear, hear), and whose unos- railway. (Renewed laughter.) Nay, more, tentatious, patient career of faithfully ful- so deeply attached am I to our Canada that filled duty and never-failing well-doing, the Pashalik of Bulgaria shall not tempt me immeasurably enhances the splendour jf the away (laughter)—even though a full crown she wears (cheers), and has advanced to domestic establishment, such as are cus- a degree it might be difficult to estimate the tomary in that country, should be general welfare of her subjects. (Loud ap- provided for me out of the taxes of plause. ) Such, then, being the justly inspired the people (laughter) and Lady Dufferin gave devotion of the British people to the Throne, her consent, which is doubtful." (Great it can be well understood that its representa- laughter and applause. tive should be sometimes even morbidly [Delivered in proposing the health of the anxious that nothing in his conduct or cha- racter, or in the way in which he discharges Chairman. ] " He was well aware that the National his delegated functions, should be out of Club sought to identify itself with all that harmony with the relations Queen Victoria was most patrioti3 in the country; that he has established between herself and her himself was in perfect sympathy with their people, not only within the limits of Great endeavours to cultivate a just pride in the Britain, but wherever the English ensign glorious Dominion of which they were citi- waves (applause)—I might even say wher- zens, and that his presence there to-night ever the English language is spoken. (Re- evinced his profound conviction that those newed applause.) His pride and pleasure is sentiments of patriotism were not only com- therefore proportionably all the greater, the patible with the most genuine loyalty to the oftener he receives at the hands of such a Crown, but were the best pledges which community as that in the midst of which I could be given of the devotion of those he have the happiness to dwell those reassuring saw around him to the honour, welfare, and evidences of their willingness to extend to interests of the British Empire at large." him their countenance, encouragement, and (Great applause. support, for he knows that the cheers which AT THE TORONTO CLUB. greet his ears and the passion of loyalty [Delivered on the 13th of January,in reply which surges around him as he passes from to the toast of his health, proposed by Hon. Province to Province and city to city of the William Cayley.] land are both intended and destined to re- *' Gentlemen, —I have been so frequently echo in the ears and to ripple round the called upon during the course of my official throne of her, the essence of whose happiness career in the Dominion to express my appre- is her people's love. (Hear, hear, and cheers. ciation of the fervent loyalty of the Canadian And, gentlemen, if there is anything people to the Throne and Person of Her Ma- which could enhance the satisfaction which jesty, as evidenced by their reception of her Her Majesty experiences in the conviction of representative on such occasions as the pre- the place she holds in your affections, it sent, that I sometimes dread lest my acknow- would be in the knowledge of the prosperous ledgments should acquire a stereotyped and and satisfactory circumstances under which common-place character. But I assure you, you are strengthening the foundations of her however bald and conventional may be the Throne and enlarging the gborders of her expressions I am forced to use, the feelings Empire. (Applause. ) Of course I am well which inspire them well from my heart with aware that during the past two or three years

ever fresh intensity. (Applause. ) Love and the commercial community of Canada have THE SPEECHES OP THE 1877

pasaed through hard aud trying times. But ties, her learned professions, possesses in an when I observe, as I have had an opportu- exceptional degree those conditions which nity of doing, the extraordinary development are most favourable to the raising up amongst which has taken place in the architectural us of great and able men, as well as robust splendour of Toronto during the interval and fruitful systems of religious, political, which has intervened since my last visit and scientific thought. (Cheers.) And here (hear, hear), I cannot be expected to entertain I may express my satisfaction at observing any misgivings either in regard to your pre- that, amid the sterner, severer, or more sent or to your future. Within this brief practical pursuits of life, its lighter graces period new banks, churches, commercial have not been forgotten. (Hear, hear.) I buildings, mansions, whole streets have believe Toronto is the only city in sprung into existence with the rapidity of Canada, perhaps on the Continent which magic, while everything connected with boasts a School of Art and an annual Exhi- them and with the city assures me that the bition. I have had the privilege of admir- progress thus developed is as solid and subs- ing some of the contributions which are in tantial as it is resplendent. (Applause. ) In preparation for the ensuing year, and I must fact, one of the happinesses of living in a new say I have been delighted to find how many and teeming country like Canada is the feel- works of genuine merit it is likely to offer

' ing that ' the stars in their courses are to your inspection. (Applause. ) I believe fighting for us, and that every season is des- the cultivation of art to be a most essential tined to bring with it the discovery of new element in our national life. I have no doubt resoui'ces, and fresh issues to our industries. that a fair proportion of the wealth of the It has been only during the currency of the higher classes will be applied to its encou- present year we have been made aware of ragement, and I trust that ere long the Gov- the possibility of our establishing a branch ernment of the country may see its way to of trade whose development is destined to the establishment of a National Gallery. I as much as anything that has for long am also very glad to hear of the steps do a , you time happened to increase our wealth, to in- are taking to facilitate your communica- vigorate our exertions, and, what is best of tions with the great North- W est. (Hear,

all. to draw still more tightly together the hear. ) No town can have much of a future bonds which unite us to the Mother Country. before it unless it has a rich and extensive (Hear, hear, and applause.) I am told upon territory at its back, and, thanks to her geo- good authority that the success attending graphical position, there is no doubt but the experiment of importing Cana- that, by wise and judicious arrangements, dian beef into the English market has this city will be able to appropriate to her- already brought down the price of self for commercial purposes a very consid- butchers' meat in Great Britain erable proportion of the entire region of several cents. (Hear, heai\) Well, gentle- country lying between the lakes and the men, what does this imply ? Why, that ere Rocky Mountains. Every day the accounts long the millions of England will be depen- of the fertility of that region are more sa- dent upon the pastures and farmers of Can- tisfactory, and I have been assured by the ada for the chief and most important item of Count de Turenne, a distinguished friend of their daily subsistence. For what are the mine, who travelled over a considerable pro- diminutive scraps of grass land in Ireland, portion of the Province of Manitoba last or along the foggy coasts of Belgium, in autumn, thst the newly-arrived emigrants, comparison with the illimitable breadths of with whom he was constantly brought into cattle-producing territory which spread from contact, especially those of foreign origin, hence to the Rocky Mountains, whose inex- universally expressed themselves as perfect- haustible produce the very inclemency of our ly content with their condition and pros- climate will assist us in transporting fresh pects. (Great applause.) This is all the and sweet to Liverpool and Smithrield? But, more satisfactory because it is probable that gentlemen, it is not merely upon the ma- those great streams of emigration from Ire- terial progress of the country or of your laud, which have hitherto contributed so neighbourhood that I desire to congratulate much to the development of this continent, you. Every time that I come to will have ceased to flow, and that we shall your capital I am more and more have to look elsewhere for those we require agreeably impressed with the intel- as partners in the rich heritage placed at our le tual vigour and activity of which it disposal. But there is still one fountain of is the centre and focus. (Applause.) After emigration which has been comparatively all, it is in the towns of a country that ideas untapped, but which, I am convinced, might are engendered and progress initiated; and be turned into Canada with the greatest ad- Toronto, with her University, with her Law vantage, and that is an emigration from Ice- Courts, with her various religious communi- land. Iceland is a country but very little )

1877 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 91 fitted for human habitation; in fact, nothing will be quickly discovered; and interested as but the indomitable hardihood, industry, and Canada is and always must be in the welfare courage of its inhabitants could have en- and prosperity of her great neighbour (hear, abled its population to bear up against the hear, hear); and friendly and affectionate as rigours of its climate and the successive are the sentiments of the Canadian people cositlic catastrophes by which it has been towards the inhabitants of the United States, perpetually overwhelmed. Already several I am sure, gentlemen, I am only expressing bands of Icelanders have found their way the sentiments of all who hear me (hear,hear) hither, and I have no doubt that in due time when I say that, combined with the respect an emigration westwards might, I think, be which has been excited in our minds by the advantageously prosecuted. Frequenting, as patience and fortitude exhibited by the I am in the habit of doing every year, the American people under the most trying shores of the Lower St. Lawrence, I have circumstances, we experience the most fer- often thought to how much better profit the vent desire, and we entertain the most industry and energies of its hardy and in- implicit confidence, that they will quickly dustrious population might be applied if, in- discover a satisfactory solution for their stead of breaking their hearts from genera- present difficulties. (Cheers and con- tion to generation in their endeavours to gain tinued applause.) In conclusion, gentlemen, a scanty subsistence from the rugged rocks and allow me to express to you my regret that sand-choked hollows which they cultivate circumstances should preclude me from find- beneath a sky of desperate severity, they ing myself more frequently in so pleasant a could be persuaded to remove to the alluvial neighbourhood and under such agreeable aus- soils and more propitious climate of our pices (applause); for, gentlemen, quite apart prairie lands. (Applause. ) Were they to from the gratification I experience in the do so, there is no doubt that for every dollar kind welcome accorded to Lady Dufferin and they succeed in extracting from their Lau- myself by the citizens of Toronto, it gives me rentian rocks they would be rewarded, under the greatest pleasure to observe how sound the more favourable auspices I have indicat- and satisfactory are the relations which exist ed, by a five-fold return. (Great applause. between the inhabitants of the Province and However, gentlemen, if I once open the the gentleman who is associated with me chapter of my speculative ideas for the im- and his colleagues in the other Provinces in provement of Canada I should never stop exercising within the borders of Ontario the (renewed applause)—for the problems both representative functions of the Crown. of political and social science which present (Cheers.) Perhaps no more convincing proof themselves for solution on this continent are could be given of the soundness of our policy inconceivably interesting and attractive; all than the way in which the seven Provinces the more so because there seems to exist from of the Dominion are presided over by their one end of the continent to the other—and I respective Lieutenant-Governors. That Can- amnot now merelyreferring to Canada—the ada should be able to furnish forth an un- happiest capacityfor their, solution. (Cheers. failing supply of gentlemen of such high If we look across the border, what do we character, of such large political experience, see ? A nation placed in one of the most of such undoubted honour as to command the trying and difficult situations which can be implicit confidence of their fellow-citizens in imagined. (Hear, hear.) Two hostile and their constitutional impartiality and their thoroughly organized camps arrayed against capacity for government, exhibits in a re- each otner in the fiercest crisis of a political markable degree how large is the fund of contest. (Hear, hear.) Yet, in spite of the abl« public men upon whose services the enormous personal and public interests at country can always count. (Loud applause.) stake, in spite of the Natural irritation such During my residence in Canada I have natu- a struggle must engender, in spite of the rally been thrown into very intimate and thousand aggravations created by this un- confidential relations with every one of these paralleled situation of suspense, there is ex- gentlemen in turn, as well as with their pre- hibited by both sides a patriotic self-re- decessors, and I must say that I have never straint, a moderation of language, and a dig- repaired to them for information or advice nified and wise attitude of reserve which is without being forcibly impressed by their worthy not only of our admiration, but of ability, patriotism, and knowledge of affairs. the imitation of the civilized world. (Con- (Cheers.) And depend upon it, it is a matter tinued applause.) Of course we know that of the greatest advantage to the community in a written constitution every possible con- that a class of statesmen should exist amongst tingency cannot be foreseen and provided us, removed by their ofnce'from the domina- against, and undoubtedly a blot has been hit tion of party prejudices and passions, and in the of Constitution the United States ; yet as deeply interested and concerned in but there is no doubt that a proper remedy everything that affects the public welfare as ) — "

92 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1877

the arena the able men who are occupied in will spring where we have trod. But not hear.) of Parliamentary warfare. (Hear, only are we ourselves engaged in these bene- When to these political advantages we have ficent occupations—you will find that the added the further satisfaction of seeing the only other nationality with whom we can social life of our capital presided over, as it ever come into contact are occupied with is in this city, with a femenine dignity, grace similar peaceable pursuits. They, like us, and refinement which cannot be surpassed are engaged in advancing the standards of (long-continued applause), by the ladies who civilization westwards, not as rivals, but as .share with the Provincial representatives of interests, ob- allies ; and a community of the Queen the cares and anxieties of their jects, and aspirations has already begun to office, we need never fear that monarchical cement between the people of the United institutions should fall into disfavour with States and ourselves what is destined I trust the Canadian people. (Great cheering. to prove an indissoluble affection. If, then, for peace AT THE MENNONITE SETTLEMENT. you have come hither to seek peace— at least we can promise you. But it is not [Delivered in reply to an an address read merely to the material blessings of our land on the 21st of August.] that 1 bid you welcome. We desire to share " Fellow-Citizens of the Dominion with you on equal terms our constitutional and Fellow- subjects of Her Majesty,— liberties, our municipal privileges, and our I have come here to-day in the name of the domestic freedom ;' we invite you to assist Queen of England to bid you welcome to us in choosing the members of our Parlia- Canadian soil. With this welcome it in ment, in shaping our laws, and in moulding needless that I. should couple the best wishes our future destinies. There is no right or of the Imperial Government in England or function which we exercise as free citizens of the Dominion Government at Ottawa, for in which we do not desire you to participate, you are well aware that both have regarded and with this civil freedom we equally glad- your coming here with unmitigated satis- ly offer you absolute religious liberty. The faction. You have left your own land in forms of worship you have brought with obedience to a conscientious scruple, nor able to practise in the most ~ you, you will be will j'ou have been the first to cross the At- and we confidently t unrestricted manner, lantic under the pressure of a similar exi- trust that those blessings which have waited gency. In doing so you must have made upon your virtuous exertions in your Russian for great sacrifices, broken with many tender homes will continue to attend you here ; associations, and overthrown the settled we hear that you are a sober-minded and purposes of your former peacefully ordered God-fearing community, and as such you is lives ; but the very fact of your having man- are doubly welcome amongst us. It with fully faced the uncertainties and risks of so the greatest pleasure I have passed through distant an emigration rather than surrender your villages, and witnessed your comfort- your religious convictions in regard to the able homesteads, barns and byres, which unlawfulness of warfare, proves you to be have arisen like magic upon this fertile well worthy of our respect, confidence and plain, for they prove indisputably that you esteem. You have come to a land where are expert in agriculture, and already pos- you will find the people with whom you are sess a high standard of domestic comfort. people, to associate engaged , indeed, in a great In the name, then,of Canada and her struggle, and contending with foes whom it in the name of Queen Victoria and her em- requires their best energies to encounter. pire, I again stretch out to you the hand of But those foes are not your fellow-men, nor brotherhood and good fellowship, for you will you be called upon in the struggle to are as welcome to our affection as you are to stain your hands with human blood—a task our lands, our libertie%, and freedom. In which is so abhorrent to your religious the eye of our law the least among you is feelings. The war to which we invite you the equal of the highest magnate in our land, as recruits and comrades is a war waged and the proudest of our citizens may well be

against the brute forces of nature ; but those content to hail you as his fellow-countryman. forces will welcome our domination, and re- You will find Canada a beneficent and loving ward our attack by placing their treasures mother, and under her fostering care I trust at our disposal. It is a war of ambition, your community is destined to flourish and for we intend to annex territory, —but extend in wealth and numbers through neither blazing villages nor devastated fields countless generations. In one word, beneath us, you will mark our ruthless track ; our battalions the flag whose folds now wave above will march across the illimitable plains which will find protection, peace, civil and reli- stretch before us as sunshine steak athwart gious liberty, constitutional freedom, and

the ocean ; the rolling prairie will blossom equal la\* s. in our wake, and corn nd peace and plenty 1877 EARL OF DUFFERIN.

AT THE ICELANDIC SETTLEMENT. all superiority—intelligence, education, and [Delivered in reply to an addres, from the intellectual activity. In fact I have not en- settlers at Gimli, on the 14th of September.] tered a single hut or cottage in the settle- "Men and Women of Iceland, now ment which did not contain, no matter how Citizens of Canada, and Subjects of bare its walls, or scanty its furniture, a library of or Her Majesty the Queen-, —When it was twenty thirty volumes ; and my good fortune twenty years ago to visit I am informed that there is scarcely a child your island I never thought that the day amongst you who cannot read and write. would come when I should be called upon as Secluded as you have been for hundreds of the representative of the British Crown to years from all contact with the civilization of Europe, you may in many respects receive you in this country ; but the oppor- be a little rusty and behind the rest tunities I have thus had. of becoming ac- of the world ; quainted with your dramatic history, with nor perhaps have the conditions under which your picturesque literature, and the kindness you used to live at home—where months I have experienced at the hands of your have to be spent in the enforced idleness of countrymen, now enable me with the great- a sunless winter—accustomed you to those est cordiality to bid you welcome. 1 have habits of continued and unflagging industry learnt with extreme sorrow of the terrible which you will find necessary to your new

trials to which you have been exposed so existence ; but in our brighter, drier, and soon after your arrival by the unexpected more exhilarating climate, you will become ravages of a terrible epidemic. Such a visi- animated with fresh vitality, and your con- tation was well calculated to damp your tinually expanding prosperity will encourage spirits and to benumb your energies, aggra- you year by year to still greater exertions. vating as it did those inevitable hardsh ips Beneath the genial influences of the fresh which attend the first efforts of all colonists young world to which you have come, the to establish themselves in a new land. The dormant capacities of your race, which ad- precautions which the Local Government verse climate and geographical conditions may was reluctantly compelled to take to prevent have somewhat stunted and benumbed, will the spreading of the contagion through the bud and burgeon forth in all the frpristine ex- Province must also have been both galling uberance, as the gems which have been for and disadvantageous, but I trust that the centuries buried beneath the pyramids and discouragements which attended your advent catacombs of Egypt are said to excel in the ex- amongst us have now for ever passed away, uberance and suueculence of their growth and that you are fairly embarked on a ca- the corn-seeds of last year's harvest. But reer of happiness and prosperity. Indeed I as sun and air and light are necessary to understand that there is not one amongst produce this miracle, so it will be necessary you who is not perfectly content with his for you to profit as much as possible by the new lot, and fully satisfied that the change example and by the intercourse of your which has taken place in his destiny is for more knowledgable neighbours. I have the better. During a hasty visit like the learnt with great satisfaction that numbers present I cannot pretend to acquire more of your young women have entered the than a superficial insight into your condition; households of various Canadian families, but so far as I have observed, things appear where they will not only acquire the Eng- to be going sufficiently well with you. The lish language, which it is most desirable you homesteads I have visited seem well built should all know, and which they will be and commodious, and are certainly far supe- able to teach their brothers and sisters—and rior to any of the farmhouses I remember in Ice- I trust I may add, in course of time, their land, while the gardens and little clearings children—but will also learn those lessons of which have begun to surround them show domestic economy and housewifely neat- that you have already tapped an inexhaust- handedness which are so necessary to the ible store of wealth in the rich alluvial soil well-being, health, and cheerfulness of our on which we stand. The three arts most homes. I am also happy to be able to add necessary to a Canadian colonist are the that I have received the best accounts from felling of timber, the ploughing of laud, and a great number of people of the good con-

the construction of highways ; but as in your duct, handiness, and docility of these young own country none of you had ever seen a tree, Ingebors, Raghnhildas, Thoras, and Gud- a corn|field, or a road, it is not to be expected runs, who I trust will do credit to the epical that you should immediately exhibit any ancestresses from whom they have inherited

expertness in these accomplishments ; but their names. Many of the houses I have practice and experience will soon make y^n visited to-day bore evident signs in their the masters of all three, for you possess, m airiness, neatness, and well-ordered appear- far greater degree than is probably imagined, and eJJ of possessing a housewife who had al- that which is the essence and foundation of ready profited from her contact with the a

94 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1877

ouse- world. And while I am upon this very converse and opposite of that which be- subject there is one practical hint which I fell your forefathers. They fled from their shall venture to make to you. Every single pleasant homes and golden corn fields into a house 1 visited to-day, many of them being howling wilderness of storm and darkness, mere temporary huts, with at the most two ice and lava, but you I am welcoming to the small chambers, was furnished with a large healthiest climate on the continent, and to a close iron cooking-stove, evidently used not soil of unexampled fertility, which a little merely for cooking purposes, but also for honest industry on your part will soon turn heating the habitation, i believe that this into a garden of plenty. Nor do we forget arrangement is anything but desirable, and that no race has a better right to come at all events in those houses where a sepa- amongst us than yourselves, for it is proba- rate kitchen cannot be obtained, an open bly to the hardihood of the Icelandic navi- fireplace should be introduced. I am quite gators that the world is indebted for the certain that if I were to come amongst you discovery of this continent. Had not Co- in winter, I should find these stoves in full lumbus visited your island and discovered operation, and every crevice in your shan- in \our records a practical and absolute con- ties sealed up from the outer air. Now, you firmation of his own brilliant speculations in are surrounded by an inexhaustible supply regard to the existence of a western land, it of the best possible fuel, which can be ob- is possible he might never have had the enter- tained with comparatively little labour, and prise to tempt the unknown Atlantic. Again, consequently, economy of coal, which is their then, I welcome you to this country— chief recommendation, need not drive you country in which you will find yourselves to an excessive use of these unwholesome freemen serving no overlord, and being no appliances. Our winter air. though suffi- man's men but your own ; each master of ciently keen, is healthy and bracing, and a his own farm, like the Udalmen and

' most potent incentive to physical exertion; Boeuders' of old days ; and remember that wnereas the mephitic vapours of an over- in coming amongst us, you will find yourselves heated, closely packed chamber paralyze our associated with a race both kindly hearted physical as well as our mental activities. A and cognate to your own, nor in becoming constitution nursed upon the oxygen of our Englishmen and subjects of Queen Victoria bright winter atmosphere makes its owner need you forget your own time-honoured feel as though he- could toss about the pine customs of the picturesque annals of your trees in his glee, whereas to the sluggard forefathers. On the contrary,! trust you will simmering over his stove-pipe it is a horror continue to cherish for all time the heart- and a nameless hardship to put his nose out- stirring literature of your nation, and that aide the door. I need not tell you that in a from generation to generation your little country like this the one virtue pre-emi- ones will coutinue to learn in your ancient nently necessary to every man is self-re- Sagas that industry, energy, fortitude, per- liance, energy, and a determination to con- severance, and stubborn endurance have quer an independent living for himself, his ever been the characteristics of the no- wife and children, by the unassisted ble Icelandic race. I have pledged my per- strength of his own right arm. Unless each sonal credit to my Canadian friends on the member of the settlement is possessed and successful development of your settlement. dominated by this feeling, there can be no My warmest and most affectionate sympa- salvation for any one. But why need I thies attend you, and I have not the slight- speak to Icelanders —to you men and wo- est misgiving but that in spite of your en- men of the grand old Norse race—of the ne- terprise being conducted under what of ne- cessity of patience under hardship, courage cessity are somewhat disadvantageous con- in the face of danger, dogged determination ditions, not only will your future prove in bhe presence of difficulties ? The annals of bright and prosperous, but that it will be your country are bright with the records of universally acknowledged that a more valu- your forefathers' noble endurance. The able accession to the intelligence, patriotism, sons and daughters of the men and women loyalty, industry, and strength of the coun- who crossed the Arctic Ocean in open boats, try has never been introduced into the Do- and preferred to make their homes amid the minion." snows and cinders of a volcano rather than AT WINNIPEG. enjoy peace and plenty under the iron sway [Delivered in reply to the toast of his of a despot, may afford to smile at^any one health at a dejeuner on the 29th of Sep- wlio talks to them of hardship or rough liv- tember.] ing beneath the oleasant shade of these mur- " Mr. Mayor, Your Honour, Ladies muring branches and beside the laughing and Gentlemen, —In rising to express my ripples of yonder shining lake. The change acknowledgments to the citizens of Winni- now taking place in your fortunes is the peg for thus crowning the friendly reception ) )

1877 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 95

I have received throughout the length and little that I can say, and scarcely anything breadth of Manitoba by so noble an enter- that I can do commensurate with my obli- tainment, I am painfully oppressed by the gations. Stay—there is one thing at all consideration of the many respects in which events I think I have already done, for which my thanks are due to you, and to so many I am entitled to claim your thanks. You other persons in the Province. (Applause. are doubtless aware that a great political From our first landing on your quays until controversy has for some time raged between the present moment my, progress through the two great parties of the State as to the country has been one continual delight which of them is responsible for the visita- (loud applause), nor has the slightest hitch tion of that terror of two continents—the or in congruous incident marred the satisfac- Colorado bug (Great laughter.) The one tion of my visit. I have to thank you side is disposed to assert that if their oppo- fdr the hospitalities I have enjoyed at the nents had never acceded to power the Colo- hands of your individual citizens, as well as rado bug would never have come to Canada. of a multitude of independent communities, (Renewed laughter.) I have reason to be- —for the tasteful and ingenious decorations lieve, however, though I know not whether which adorned my route, —for the quarter of any substantial evidence has been adduced a mile of evenly-yoked oxen that drew our in support of their assertion (laughter), that triumphal car, —for the universal proofs of my Government deny and repudiate having your loyalty to the Throne and the Mother had any sort of concert or understanding Country, and for your personal goodwill with that irrepressible invader. (Roars of towards Her Majesty's representative. laughter.) It would be highly unconstitu- Above all, I have to thank you for the evi- tional for me, who am bound to hold a per- dences produced on either hand along our fectly impartial balance between the con- march of your prosperous condition, of your tending parties of the State, to pronounce perfeot contentment, of your confidence in an opinion upon this momentous question. your future fortunes, — for I need not tell (Renewed laughter.) But however disput- you that to any one in my situation, smiling able a point may be the prime and original corn fields, cozy homesteads, the joyful faces authorship of the Colorado bug, there is one of prosperous men and women, and the fact no one will question, namely, that to laughter of healthy children, are the best the presence of the Governor- General in of all triumphal adornments. (Applause.) Manitoba is to be attributed the sudden, But there are other things for which I ought total, otherwise unaccountable, and I trust to be obliged to you, and first for the beau- permanent disappearance, not only from this tiful weather you have taken the precaution Province, but from the whole North-West, to provide us with during some six weeks of of the infamous and unmentionable ' perpetual camping out (laughter), for which Hopper ' (loud laughter) whose annual attention I have received Lady Dufferin's visitations for the last seventeen years have especial orders to render you her personal proved so distressing to the agricultural in- thanks—an attention which the unusual terests of the entire region. But apart from phenomenon of a casual waterspout enabled being the fortunate instrument of conferring us only the better to appreciate ; and lastly, this benefit upon you (laughter), I fear the though certainly not least, for not having only further return in my power is to assure generated amongst you that fearful entity, you of my great sympathy with you in your " " a Pacific Railway question —at all events endeavours to do justice to the material advan- not in those dire and tragic proportions in tages with which your Province has been so which I have encountered it elsewhere. richly endowed by the hands of Providence.

(Great laughter. ) Of course I know a cer- From its geographical position, and its pecu- tain phase of the railway question is agitat- liar characteristics, Manitoba may be regarded ing even this community, but it has assumed as the keystone of that mighty arch of sister the mild character of a domestic rather than Provinces which spans the continent from of an inter-Provincial controversy. Two the Atlantic to the Pacific. (Great applause. distinguished members, moreover, of my pre- It was here that Canada, emerging from her sent Government have been lately amongst woods and forests, first gazed upon her roll- you, and have doubtless acquainted them- ing prairies and unexplored North-West, and selves with your views and wishes. It is learnt, as by an unexpected revelation, that not necessary, therefore, that I should mar her historical territories of the Canadas, her

j the hilarious character of the present festival eastern seaboards of New Brunswick, Labra- | by any untimely allusions to so grave a dor and Nova Scotia, her Laurentian lakes matter. Well, then, ladies and gentlemen, and valleys, corn lands and pastures, though what am I to say and do to you in return themselves more extensive than half a dozen for all the pleasure and satisfaction I have European kingdoms (applause), were but the received at your hands ? 1 fear there is very vestibules and antechambers to that till then — )

IN> THE SPEECHES OF THE 1877

undreamt of Dominion, whose illimitable For the last eighty miles of his voyage, how- dimensions alike confound the arithmetic of ever, he will be consoled by sailing through the surveyor and the verification of the ex- a succession of land-locked channels, the plorer. (Tremendous applause.) It was beauty of whose scenery, while it resembles, hence chat counting her past achievements certainly excels the far-famed Thousand as but the preface and prelude to her future Islands of the St. Lawrence. (Loud cheer- ing. exertions and expanding destinies, she took ) From this lacustrine paradise of sylvan a Ereah departure, received the afflatus of a beauty we are able at once to transfer our more Imperial inspiration, and felt herself no friend to the Winnipeg, a river whose exis- longer a mere settler along the banks of a tence in the very heart and centre of the single river, but the owner of half a conti- continent is in itself one of Nature's most nent, and in the amplitude of her possession^ delightful miracles, so beautiful and varied in the wealth of her resources, in the sinew are its rocky banks, its tufted islands—so of her material might, the peer of any Powe broad, so deep, so fervid is the volume of its on the earth. (Loud applause. ) In a recen waters, the extent of their lake-like expan- remarkably witty speech the Marquis of Sal- sions, and the tremendous power of their isbury alluded to the geographical misconcep- rapids. (Tremendous applause.) At last let tions often engendered by the smallness of us suppose we have landed our traveller at the maps upon which the figure of the world the town of Winnipeg, the half-way house of is depicted. To this cause is probably to be the continent, the capital of the Prairie Pro- attributed the inadequate idea, entertained vince, and I trust the future ' umbilicus ' of by the best educated persons, of the extent the Dominion. (Great cheering.) Having of Her Majesty's North American posses- had so much of water, having now reached sions. Perhaps the best way of correcting the home of the buffalo, like the extenuated such a universal" misapprehension would be Falstaff/he naturally ' babbles of green fields' by a summary of the rivers which flow (laughter and applause), and careers in im- through them, for we know that as a poor agination over the primeval grasses of the man cannot afford to live in a big house, so prairie. Not at all. Escorted by Mr. Mayor a small country cannot support a big river. and the Town Council we take him down to

Now, to an Englishman or a Frenchman the f your quay, and ask him which he will ascend Severn or the Thames, the Seine or the first—the Red River or the Assiniboine, two Rhone, would appear considerable streams, streams, the one five hundred miles long, the but in the Ottawa, a mere affluent of the St. other f jur hundred and eighty, which so Lawrence, an affluent moreover which happily mingle their waters within your city

reaches the parent stream six hundred miles limits. (Applause. ) After having given him from its mouth, we have a river nearly five a preliminary canterup thesdbespective rivers, hundred and fifty miles long, and three or we take him off to Lake Winnipeg, an inland four times as big as any of them. (Applause. sea three hundred miles long and upwards of But even after having ascended the St. Law- sixty broad, during the navigation of which rence itself to Lake Ontario, and pursued it for many a' weary hour he will find himself across Lake Huron, St. Clair, and .Lake out of sight of land, and probably a good Superior to Thunder Bay, a distance of one deal more indisposed than he ever was on thousand five hundred miles, where are we ? the Lake of the Woods, or even the Atlantic. In the estimation of the person who has (Laughter.) At the north-west angle of Lake made the journey, at the end of all things Winnipeg he hits upon the mouth of the

(great laughter) ; but to us who know better, Saskatchewan, the gateway to the North- scarcely at the commencement of the great West, and the starting point to another one

fluvial systems of the Dominion ; for, from thousand five hundred miles of navigable that spot, that is to say, from Thunder Bay, water, flowing nearly due east and west be- we are able at once to ship our astonished tween its alluvial banks. Having now reach- traveller on to the Kaministiquia, a river of ed the foot of the Rocky Mountains our some hundred miles long. Thence, almos * ancient mariner' (laughter)—for by this time in a straight line, we launch him on to Lake he will be quite entitled to such an appella- Shebandowan and Rainy Lake and River tion—knowing that water cannot run up hill, a magnificent stream three hundred yards feels certain his aquatic experiences are con- broad and a couple of hundred miles long, down cluded. (Laughter and applause.) He was whose tranquil bosom he floats into the Lake never more mistaken. (Laughter.) We im- of the Woods, where he finds himself on a mediately launch him upon the Arthabaska sheet of water which, though diminutive as and Mackenzie rivers, and start him on a compared with the inland seas he has left be- longer trip than any he has yet undertaken hind him, will probably be found sufficiently (laughter)—the navigation of the Mackenzie extensive to render him fearfully sea. sick river alone exceeding two thousand five hun- during his passage across ic. (Laughter.) dred miles. If he survives this last experience 1877 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 97

we wind up his peregrinations by a con- and eventually that of an agricultural peo- cluding voyage of one thousand four hundred ple. (Applause.) Happily in no part of Her miles down the Fraser river, or, if he prefers Majesty s dominions are the relations exist- it, the Thompson river to Victoria, in Van- ing between the white settler and the origi- couver, whence, having previously provided nal natives and masters of the land so well him with a first-class return ticket for that understood or so generally and humanely in- purpose, he will probably prefer getting home terpreted as in Canada, and, as a conse- via the Canadian Pacific. (Roars of laughter.) quence, instead of being a r cause of anxiety Now, in this enumeration, those who are ac- and disturbance, the Indian tribes of the quainted with the country are aware that, Dominion are regarded as a valuable adjunct for the sake of brevity, I have omitted thou- to our strength and industry. (Hear hear sands of miles of other lakes and rivers which and applause.) Wherever "i have water various gone in* regions of the North-West, the the Province—and since I have been here I Qu'Appellee river, the Belly river, Lake have travelled nearly a thousand miles with- Manitoba, Lake Winnepegosis, Shoal Lake, in your borders—I have found the Indians &c—along whose interminable banks and upontheir several reserves, pretermitting a Bhores I might have dragged and finally ex- lew petty grievances of a local character terminated our way worn guest (laughter), they thought themselves justified in prefer- but the sketch I have given is more than ring contented and satisfied, upon the most sufficient for my purpose; and when it is fur- friendly terms with their white neighbours ther remembered that most of these streams and implicitly confiding in the good faith and flow for their entire length through alluvial paternal solicitude of the Government (Ap- plains of the richest description (applause), plause.) In some districts I have learnt where year after year wheat can be raised with pleasure that the Sioux, who a few years without manure, or any sensible diminution since entered our territory under such sinis- in its yield (hear, hear), and where the soil ter circumstances—I do not, everywhere of course, refer presents the appearance of a to the recent visit , of Sitting Bull and his highly cultivated suburban kitchen garden in people, who however, I believe, are remain- Eugland, enough has been said to display ing perfectly quiet-are not only peaceable the agricultural riches of the territories I and well-behaved, but have turned into use- have referred to (great applause), and the ful and hardworking labourers and harvest- capabilities tbey possess of affording happy men while in the more distant settlements, and prosperous homes to millions of the the less domesticated bands of natives human race. (Long-continued applause.) whether as hunters, voyageurs,guides, or pur- But in contemplating the vistas thus open- veyors of our furs and game, prove an ap- ed to our imagination, we must not forget preciably advantageous element in the econo- that there ensues a corresponding expansion mical structure of the colony. (Applause.) of our obligations. For instance, unless ihere is no doubt that a great great deal of the care is taken, we shall find, as we good feeling thus i subsisting between the move westward, that the exigencies of civil- red men and ourselves is due to the influence ization may clash injuriously with the preju- and interposition of that invaluable class of dices and traditional habits of our Indian fel- men, the half-breed settlers and pioneers low-subjects. As long of as Canada was in the Manitoba (loud applause), who, woods the Indian problem combining was comparative- as they do the hardihood, the ly endurance, and easy, the progress of settlement was slow love of enterprise generated by the straiu of enough to give ample time and opportunity Indian blood within their veins, with the for arriving at an amicable and mutually civilization, the instruction, and the intellec- convenient arrangement with each tribe with tual power derived from their fathers, have whom we successively came into contact ; but preached the gospel of peace and once out upon the goodwill plains, colonization will and mutual respect, with advance equally bene- with far more rapid and ungovern- ficent results, to the Indian chieftain in his able strides, and it cannot fail eventually to lodge, and theB.itith settUr in his shanty interfere with the by no means inexhaustible Ureat applause.) They have been the am- supply of buffalo upon which so many of bassadors between the East and the West the Indian tribes are now dependent. the interpreters of civilization and its exigen- Against this contingency it will be our cies to the dwellers on the prairie, as well as most urgent and imperative duty to take the exponents to the white man of the timely precaution by enabling con- the red man, sideration justly due to the not by any susceptibilities undue pressure, or hasty or ill- the sensitive self-resuect, the prejudices the considered inttrrerence, but by precept, ex- innate craving for justice of the Indian /ace. ample, and suasion, by gifts of cattle and (Applause.) In fact, they have done for other encouragements, to exchange the pre- the colony what otherwise would have been carious life of a hunter for that of a pastoral left unaccomplished, and have introduced —

THE SPEECHES OF THE 1877

between the white population and the red mation (cheers), and yet when in your name, man a traditional feeling of amity and and in the name of the Queen of England, I friendship, which, but for them, it might bade these people welcome to their new have been impossible to establish. (Cheers.) homes, it was not the improvement in their Nor can I pass by the humane, kindly and material fortunes that preoccupied my considerate attention which has ever thoughts. Glad as I was to have the power distinguished the Hudson Bay Company of applotting them so ample a portion of our in its dealings with the native population. teeming soii—a soil which seems to blossom (Applause.) But, though giving due credit at a touch (cheering(, and which they were to inese influences amongst the causes which cultivating to such manifest advantage are conducing to produce and preserve this I felt infinitely prouder in being fortunate result, the place of honour must able to throw over them the aegis b3 adjudged to that honourable and gene- of the British Constitution (loud rous policy which hasbeen pursued by suc- cheering), and in bidding them freely cessive Governments of Canada towards the share with us our unrivalled political institu- Indian, and which at this moment is being tions, our untrammelled personal liberty. superintended and carried out with so much (Great cheering.) We ourselves are ao tact, discretion, and ability by your present accustomed to breathe the atmosphere of Lieutenant - Governor (applause), under freedom that it scarcely occurs to us to con- which the extinction of the Indian title sider and appreciate our advantages in this upon liberal terms has invariably been re- respect. It is only when we are reminded cognized as a necessary preliminary to the by such incidents as that to which I refer, of occupation of a single square yard of native the small extent of the world's surface over territory. (Cheering.) But our Indian which the principles of Parliamentary Gov- friends and neighbours are by no means the ernment can be said to work smoothly and only alien communities in Manitoba which harmoniously, that we are led to consider demand the solicitude of the Government the exceptional happiness of our position. and excite our sympathies and curiosity. In (Applause.) Nor was my visit to the Icelan- close proximity to Winnipeg, two other dic community less satisfactory than that to communities, the Mennonites and Iceland- our Mennonite fellow-subjects. From acci- ers, starting from opposite ends of Europe, dental circumstances I have been long since without either concert or communication, led to take ah interest in the history and have sought fresh homes within our terri- literature of the Scandinavian race, and the tory, the one of Russian extraction, though kindness I once received at the hands of the of German race, moved by a desire to escape Icelandic people in their own island naturally from the obligations of a law which was re- induced me to take a deep interest in the pulsive to their conscience; the other bred welfare of this new emigration. (Applause.) amid the snows and ashes of an Arctic volcano, When we take into account the secluded by the hope of bettering their material con- position of the Icelandic nation for the last

dition. (Applause. ) Although I have wit- thousand years, the unfavourable conditions nessed many sights to cause me pleasure of their climatic and geographical situation, during my various progresses through the it would be unreasonable to expect that a Dominion, seldom have I beheld any spec- colony from thence should exhibit the same tacle more pregnant with prophecy, more aptitude^' for agricultural enterprise and fraught with promise of a successful future settlement as would be possessed by a people than the Meunonite Settlement. (Applause.) fresh from intimate contact with the higher When I visited these interesting people they civilization of Europe. In Iceland there are had only been two years in the Province, neither trees, nor corn fields, nor highways. and yet in a long ride I took across many You cannot, therefore, expect an Icelander miles of prairie, which but yesterday was to exhibit an inspired proficiency in felling absolutely bare, desolate, and untenanted, timber, ploughing land, or making roads, yet the home of the wolf, the badger, and the unfortunately these are the three accomplish- eagle, 1 passed village after village, home- ments most necessary to a colonist in Canada. stead after homestead, furnished forth with But though starting at a disadvantage in all the conveniences and incidents of Euro- these respects, you must not underrate the pean comfort, and a scientific agriculture, capacity of your new fellow-countrymen. while on either side of the road corn fields They are endowed with a great deal of already ripe for harvest, and pastures popu- intellectual ability and a quick intelli- lous with herds of cattle, stretched away to gence. They are well educated. I scarcely the horizon. (Great applause.) Even on entered a hovel at Gimli which did not pos- this continent—the peculiar theatre of rapid sess a library. They are well conducted, change and progress—there has nowhere, I religious, and peaceable. Above all, they are magiue, taken place so marvellous a transfor- docile and anxious to learn. (Applause.) 1877 EARL OF DUFFERIN

Nor considering the difficulty which prevails within those of the Dominion. Nothing in this country in procuring women servants, struck me more on my way through St- will the accession of some hundreds of Paul, in the United States, than the sympa- bright, good-humoured, though perhaps in- thetic manner in which the inhabitants of that experienced, yet willing Icelandic girls, flourishing city alluded to the progress and anxious for employment, be found a disad- prospects of Canada and the North-West vantage by the resident ladies of the country. (loud applause), and on arriving here I was Should the dispersion of these young people equally struck by rinding even a more lead in course of time to the formation of exuberant counterpart of those friendly senti-

more intimate and tenderer ties than those ments. (Great applause. ) The reason is not of mere neighbourhood between the Cana- far to seek. Quite independently of the dian population and the Icelandic colony, I genial intei course promoted by neighbour- am safe in predicting that it will not prove hood and the intergrowth of commercial rela- a matter of regret on the one side or the tions, a bond of sympathy between the two other. (Applause.) And, gentlemen, in populations is created by the consciousness reference to this point I cannot help remark- that they are both engaged in an enterprise

ing with satisfaction on the extent to which of world-wide importance ; that they are a community of interests, the sense of being both organized corps in the ranks of huma- engaged in a common undertaking, the nity, and the wings of a great army marching

•obvious degree in which the prosperity of in line on a level front ; that any one man is a gain to his neighbours, has they are both engaged in advanc- amalgamated the v arious sections of the ing the standards of civilization population of this Province, originally so di- westwards, and that for many a year to come verse in race, origin, and religion, into a they will be associated in the task of con- patriotic, closely welded, and united whole. verting the breadths of prairie that stretch (Applause.) fry no part of Canada have I between them and the setting sun into one found a better feeling prevailing between all vast paradise of international peace, of domes- classes and sections of the community. tic happiness, and material plenty. (Great (Cheers.) It is in a great measure owing cheering.) Between two communities thus to this widespread sentiment of brotherhood, occupied it is impossible but that amity and that on a recent occasion great troubles have loving kindness should be begotten. (Ap- been averted, while at the present moment plause.) But, perhaps, it will be asked, it is rinding its crowning and most triumph- how can I, who am the natural and official ant expression in the establishment of a guardian of Canada's virtue, mark with University uuder conditions which have been satisfaction such dangerously sentimental declared impossible of application in any proclivities towards her seductive neighbour? other Province of Canada— I may say in I will reply by appealing to those experienc- any other country in the world ed matrons and chaperones I see around me.

'(great cheering) ; for nowhere else either in They will tell you that when a young lady ex- Europe or on this Continent, as far as I am presses her frank admiration for a man, when aware, have the bishops and heads of the she welcomes his approach with uncon- various religious communities into which the strained pleasure, crosses the room to sit be- Christian world is unhappily divided combin- side him, presses him to join her picnic, ed to erect an Alma Mater to which all the de- praises him to her friends, there is not the

nominational colleges of the Province are to slightest fear of her affections having been sup - be affiliated, and whose statutes and degrees reptitiously entrapped by the gay deceiver. are to be regulated and dispensed under the (Loud laughter.) On the contrary, it is joint auspices of a governing body in which when she can be scarcely brought to mention all the Churches of the land will be repre- his name (great laughter), when she avoids

sented. (Great applause. ) An achievement his society, when she alludes to him with of this kind speaks volumes in malice and disparagement, that real danger favour of the wisdom, liberality, and is to be apprehended. (Renewed laughter.) the Christian charity of those devoted No, no ! Canada both loves and admires the men by whom in this distant land United States, but it is with the friendly, the consciences of the population are led and frank affection which a heart-whole stately enlightened, and long may they be spared to maiden feels for some big, boisterous, hob- see the effects of their exertions and mag- bledehoy of a cousin fresh from school, nanimous sacrifices in the good conduct and and elate with animal spirits and good grateful devotion of their respective flocks. nature. She knows he is stronger and more (Cheers.) Nor, I am happy to think, is this muscular than herself, has lots of pocket good fellowship upon which I have so much money (laughter), can smoke cigars, and 4 cause to congiatulate you confined either loaf around ' in public places in an ostent- within the limits of the Province, or even tious manner forbidden to the decorum of hae ) )

100 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1878

situation. (Uproarious laughter.) She ad- gard by your President and the other gentle- mires him for his bigness, strength, and men who have addressed you, I am disturbed prosperity. She likes to hear of his punch- by contending considerations. On the one ing the heads of other boys. (Laughter. hand, 1 feel that I have no right whatever to She anticipates and will be proud of his intervene in the present discussion; on the future success in life, and Doth likes him and other, 1 am naturally desirous to express my laughs at him for his affectionate, loyal, deep sense of the honour conferred upon me though somewhat patronizing friendship for by so friendly a reception. (Applause.) It herself. (Great laughter,) But of no is true I once sailed towards the north, and nearer connection does she dream, nor does got as near the Pole as Washington is to his bulky image for a moment disturb her Ottawa; but the voyage was as fruitless as virginal meditations. (Laughter.) In a that of the Peri to the gate of Paradise, and world apart, secluded from all extraneous possessed but one feature in common with influences, nestling at the feet of her majes- the expeditions of more serious explorers, tic Mother, Canada dreams her dream, and namely, that I had to turn back again. forebodes her destiny—a dream of ever- (Laughter.) With the exception of estab- broadening harvests, multiplying towns and lishing the temperature through an unfre-

villages, and expanding pastures ; of consti- quented section of the Arctic Ocean, it was tutional self-government, and a confederated barren both of scientific results and personal

Empire ; of page after page of honourable adventure. I am therefore really no more history added as her contribution to the an- qualified to pronounce an opinion upon any nals of the Mother Couutry and to the of the interesting topics which have been

glories of the Lriuish race ; of a perpetuation discussed to-night than a life-long inhabi- for all time upon this continent of that tem- tant of the tropics, and consequently I shall perate and well-balanced system of govern- abstain from doing so. There is, indeed, one ment, which combines in one mighty whole, character in which I can claim admission to as the eternal possession of all Englishmen, your halls, namely, that of a Fellow of the the brilliant history aud' traditions of the Royal Geographical Society of England, and past, with the freest and most untrammelled we well know that geographers are brothers liberty of action in the future. (Tremen- all the world over. For the geographer, the dous cheering.) Ladies and gentlemen, I political and the ethnological lines of demar- have now done. I have to thank you for cation by which nationalities are divided do the patience with which you have listeued not exist. All countries are to him what to me, and once again for the many kind- Italy in former days was once pronounced nesses you have done Lady Dufferin and to be: 'geographical expressions.' The only myself during our stay amongst you, heroes or potentates on his roll of fame, the (Applause.) Though elsewhere in the only sacred names admitted to his calendar, Dominion stagnation of trade and commerce are those gallant mariners and noble explo- has checked for a year or two the general rers who generation after generation have advance of Canada, here at least you have faced danger, privation and death in the escaped the effects of such sinister incidents, cause of science, and in the hope of bringing for your welfare being based upon the most to the knowledge of mankind those secret solid of all foundations, the cultivation of regions of the earth which God has prepaied the soil, you are in a position to pursue the from everlasting for the habitation or advan- even tenor of your way untroubled by those tage of the human race. (Loud applause.) alternations of fortune which disturb the And in no parfof the world ought maritime world of trade and manufacture. You have adventure to be held in higher honour than been blessed with an abundant harvest, and on that continent which is indebted for its soon 1 trust will a railway come to carry to original birth aud present glorious existence those who need it the surplus of your pro- to the heroic daring of the greatest navigator duce, now— as my own eyes have witnessed that ever trimmed a sail or took a bearing. —imprisoned in your storehouses for want As a fellow-g'eographer, therefore, I beg to of the means of transport. (Cheers.) May express to you my warmest sympathies and the expanding finances of the country soon most respectful admiration. And proud am place the Governmeut in a position to gratify I to think that the two great Anglo Saxon your just aud natural expectations." (Great Powers of the world should have been so in- cheering. timately associated in these Arctic expedi- AT NEW YORR. tions, which by common consent are justly [Delivered before the American Geographi- regarded as the most heroic, if not the most cal Society on the 31st of January.] successful, of any which have been under- "Mr. Pjrksident, Ladies and Gentle- taken. (Applause.) I cau assure you that mem, — In rising to respond to the kind ob- in Great Britain the names of Kane and rvations which have been made in my re- Hayes and Hall are as familiar and honoured —

1878 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 101

household words as are those of Franklin and those who, like myself, are \ incessant- Belcher and McClure in this country (ap- ly occupied with public affairs, there can be plause), and never will either the navy or no such relief from the cares and anxieties of the people, or the Queen of England, forget political life as is to be found in shutting how the United States recovered, refitted, out the din of the passing hour and the and returned across the ocean the poor old noises of the world, at one time by turning battered Resolute to the port from whence aside into the groves of the academy, at she sailed. Many and strong as are the bonds another by pacing the marble pavements of •of sympathy which unite Great Britain to the porch, to renew in the one or the other America, none, perhaps, have engendered ancieut ties of friendship and of interest. more affectionate sentiments between the Certainly no one can fail to rejoice when he two countries than those derived from our beholds this quiet abode of letters and of united efforts to penetrate the Arctic regions, peace. Nay, if the whole truth must be and, as I may now add, the recesses of Cen- told, who would not be glad to tarry heYe tral Africa. (Applause.) But, after all, I feel here in sweet converse with valued friends, I am really here in quite another capacity. to share in and to enjoy the progress of all use- You are aware that when the great sea cap- ful knowledge and of true science ? Never- tain, Christopher Columbus, to whom I have theless, I must not dally too long with such made allusion, returned to the Court of Fer- reflections, remembering that I administer dinand, he brought with him in chains several the government of a young nation which is captive Indian chiefs as proofs of the reality just entering resolutely on the paths which of his achievements and as specimens of the lead to glory and prosperity, and which, not strange nationalities he had discovered. To- yet having attained its full stature, has need night your discussion has been concerned of many services such as we believe this with those icy regions which lie beneath University fitted to render it. In the actual Arcturus, and reflect the rosy radiance of condition of our affairs, everyone must deep- the Aurora; and if Chief Justice Daly has ly feel how close the connection is between now led me captive to your presence, it is this great institution of learning p.nd the only because he wished to parade before fairest hopes of the country—and I most of your eyes a potentate whose sceptre touches all am conscious that in these youths I see the the Pole, and who rules over a larger area of future strength of Canada. Upon them, in snow than any monarch. (Loud laughter.) the due course of time, it will devolve to In one respect alone does my condition differ take up and carry forward to grander re- from that of the prisoners of Columbus. sults the work now entrusted to our hands. When presented to the Court of Spain the As we now behold their zealous industry, gentle Isabella commanded their manacles to and their success in pressing up the steep be struck from off their limbs, but the chains and narrow way which leads to all sound I wear are those which have been forged learning, we must feel that we may im- around my heart by the courtesy, kindness plicitly rely upon them, and that we may con- and consideration I have received at the fidently leave the commonwealth to such in- hands of the people of the United States, heritors. It is with considerations such as and such fetters even your imperial mandate these, most honourable gentlemen, that I would be powerless to loose." (Great ap- tender you the thanks I owe you for admit- plause.) ting me into your fellowship. I recall the AT MAGILL UNIVERSITY. years which, when a youth, I passed at [Delivered in reply to an address by the Oxford as the happiest "of my life, nor can Chancellor, the Hon. C. D. Day, on the 13th any name fall more sweetly upon our ears of February. The speech was delivered in than that of Alma Mater. It is but natural Oreek, and the following is a translation. then that I should prize and promise to hold Lord Dufferin's scholarly reply excited great in the highest esteem the honour you have admiration. ] conferred upon me. One word more let me "I have listened with great pleasure, Mr. add on behalf of my wife, the Countess of President, and learned gentlemen of the Dufferin, and of my family, and in acknow- Faculty, to all the courteous things you have ledgment of the good wishes you have so said of me. It has given me peculiar satis- cordially lavished upon us : may God grant faction to hear the accents of the Attic you all the happiness you asked of Him for tongue ; and I can never think without us."' emotion of the commendation which has been AT THE WINDSOR HOTEL. bestowed upon me in the language of Plato [Delivered in proposing the health of the and Demosthenes. You will allow me to President of the United States, at a banquet couple with this expi ession of my thanks a held on the 14th of February.] few words not perhaps unfitting to "Sir Francis Hincks and Gentlemen, be spoken here, and now. For —Although it is very unusual for the guest ——

102 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1878 of the evening to intrude himself upon the downwards there is not a human being in the notice of hi8 entertainers at so early a period, States who does not wish you well, who is I have ventured to ask permission from your not anxious to respect your independence, Chairman to intervene for a few moments who does not desire to see you prosperous for the purpose of introducing a toast. and powerful. (Applause.) In the fresh, That toast, ladies and gentlemen, is the free atmosphere of liberty, which sweeps health of the President of the United States. their land from the Atlantic to the Pacific, (Cheers.) Coming, as I do, straight from no noxious root of jealousy can grow, and fi the country whose government he adminis- there is one characteristic by which they are ters—the consideration for Canada he has more distinguished than another, it is that been pleased to evince in his personal cour- of generosity, the inherent attribute of every tesies to myself fresh within my recollection educated democracy. (Renewed applause.) —my heart still warm and glowing with Nay, I will add that if Europe wishes to the memory of the extraordinary kindness, learn to what perfection kindness can be attention and hospitality with which I have brought, to how great a degree genuine hos- been honoured by every American citizen pitality can enhance the graces of social in* with whom I came into contact—(loud ap- tercourse, it is to this continent they must plause) —whether at Washington or New come for information. (Loud applause.) York, or indeed in any other part of the Ladies and gentlemen, I am happy to think country — (renewed applause) — you will that the cheers which my toast has called readily understand I should wish to lose no forth will not die away altogether in silence. opportunity of giving expression to my gra- We have amongst us to night three distin- titude, and of emphasizing my regard for the guished citizens of the States. (Cheers.) great republic, its ruler and its people We have our old friend General Dart, the (loud applause) —and I indulge my inclina- Consul-General of the United States, who, tions the more readily because I kuow that by his courtesy and ability, has won the re- I ana interpreting your own sentiments spect of all who know him. (Applause.) (hear, hear)—that my experiences have been We have Mr. Bierstadt, one of the most yours, and that probably there is not a single eminent and distinguished artists of the pre- individual present who cannot testify in his sent generation— (cheers) —and I have the own person to the genial good nature, ur- happiness of seeing near me Mr. Webb banity and friendliness of our neighbours Hayes, the son of the President of the across the line. (Cheers.) Ladies and gen- United States—(cheers) —to whom your city tlemen, upon the personal or upon even the has extended its hospitality, and in drinking political claims of the President of the United his father's health, and in bidding him and States to the confidence and affectionate re- his two other friends welcome to the Cana- gard of his people, it would be out of place dian soil, I am sure that he and they will for me to dilate. It is not either in his per- understand that if, instead of three repre- sonal or political capacity that he presents sentatives of their nation, the whole people himself to our regards. It is not for us to of America were amonst us to-night, our concern ourselves with the conditions and hearts, if not our hotels, would be big enough circumstances under which the Chief of the to receive them all." (Tremendous ap-

American Executive attains to power. In plause. ) our eyes he is solely and simply ' the elect [Deliverf d in response to the toast of his of the people ' —(applause)—the head of one health on the same occasion.] of the greatest and noblest nations of the " Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen, — Be- earth— (loud applause) —the representative fore attempting to express t3 you the deep of their Majesty and Imperium, the reposi- gratitude I feel, not only for the kind recep- tory of their power, the mighty Chief of their tion you have given to the mention of my glorious Commonwealth—(great applause) name, but still more for the round of honours and when we drink his health it is the Ame- and hospitalities with which I have been rican people we desire to honour— (cheers) greeted during the present memorable week, it is to the American people that we wish there is a little matter of business, which, happiness and prosperity, it is to the Ame- since it has been referred to by the Consul- rican people we extend the right hand of General of the United States, I feel, perhaps, fellowship and affection. (Continued ap- it would be desirable for me to mention in

plause. ) And, gentlemen, the more I know order that once for all I may reply to a of them, the better I have become ac- query which has been put to me by all quainted with their views and aspirations, most every friend who has heard of my re- the more disposed I feel to bid you cultivate cent visit to Washington. Well, then-

their friendship, and to rely upon their gene- gentlemen—No ! I have not brought rous regard and sympathy. (Cheers.) As them back in my portmanteau. (Laughter.) far as I have observed, from the President Our five millions and a half of lish money 1878 EARL OF DUFFERIN, 103 were not handed to me across the counter to have been of ominous import. Such an by the President of the United States inference only shows how ignorant some (great laughter), as many persons imagine (re- people are of the subtle manner in which newed laughter) to have been the case. What the representatives of great nations inter- is more, I did not even ask for them, nor change ideas. (Laughter.) Ambassadors look as if I wanted them, or indeed as if I do not dispute like washerwomen across a knew anything about them. (Roars of tub. (Great laughter.) When they meet, laughter. ) And in assuming this attitude of they imitate the lofty reticence of those two reserve, I am sure I consulted the delicacy famous augurs of ancient Rome—a nod, a of your feelings. (Renewed laughter. ) Some wink (laughter), a demi-mot, or, as upon this of those present, —I trust not many, for occasion, no word at all, conveys the most money is difficult to come by in these hard important decisions. (Laughter.) In Mr. times (laughter)—occupy the position of cre- Evarts' taciturnity I read, as all of you ditors. Well, how do they demean them- would have done, a reference to the ancient T selves under such circumstances ? W hy, Greek apothegm, 'Speech is silver, but si- however resolutely they may be disposed to lence is gold' (great laughter), and by re- put the law in force against the fraudulent maining speechless Mr. Evarts intended me debtor, when they see the man who owes to understand that not only did he intend to them money scraping together every six- pay up like a man, but that he intended to pence within his reach, with the view of dis- pay up in gold like a gentleman (tremendous charging his liabilities—appropriating his cheering and laughter), and the President wife's pin money (laughter)—cutting himself has confirmed this solemn undertak- down the allowance of his younger ing of his Ministry by handing over to me brothers and sisters — stopping his his own son as a hostage (laughter and ap- children's schooling—and talking, as if plause), though, to save appearances, in the he really meant it, of curtailing his own guise of a friendly visitor. But we have had daily consumption of cigars and cocktails a narrow escape. If, by a stroke of Machia- (great laughter), he naturally feels it would vellian policy, he had only substituted his be impious to trouble the serenity or to em- daughter, we are so gallant I believe we barrass the self-respect of so right-minded a would have kept the young lady and let the personage by dunning him for payment. money go. (Cheers and laughter.) And (Renewed laughter.) If he knocks up now, gentlemen, having disposed of the only against such a one in the street, he slinks serious matter before us, we can afford to down the nearest alley (laughter), or shirks make a night of it, and in order that you behind a shop door rather than disturb, by may do so the more agreeably, 1 will hasten his own obnoxious and compromising pre- to conclude the task your kindness has im- sence, the self-satisfied cogitations of so posed upon me. And yet, before I sit down, much virtue. (Roars of laughter.) Well, I cannot help desiring to express more fully then, gentlemen, that was exactly the con- than I have yet had an opportunity of doing duct I pursued during my visit to the States. my very deep sense of the extraordinary I was perpetually hiding behind doors kindness I am receiving at your hands. For (laughter), and running round street corners an entire week, myself, my family, my (great laughter), so satisfactory did I find the friends, my staff, my household, have been the public temper in regard to our little matter, guests of your city, lodged in a palace, and nor did I move a muscle of my countenance welcomed to a series of entertainments of when I was confidentially informed by an unparalleled splendour and interest. (Great enterprising newspaper interviewer how cheering.) The Beauty of the Province has General Benjamin Butler and other influen- decked itself in its most irresistible charms tial personages had been overheard to pro- to grace the occasion. (Applause.) Thanks pose the sale by auction of the Treasury to the munificence of one of your eminent Buildings at Washington rather than that the citizens, my visit is destined to become as- Great Republic should remain an instant sociated with as noble an act of charity as longer in the debt of Canada. (Uproarious has ever illustrated the annals of the Domi- laughter.) And yet I did not altogether re- nion (loud applause), while Education, Art, frain from diplomatic action. When asked the Drama, and many other elements of our by the Secretary of State to dinner, I osten- national life have received a fresh impulse tatiously abstained from taking fish (roars of and additional proofs of the interest and laughter and applause), a demonstration the sympathy felt for them by your fellow-citi- force of which Mr. Evarts met and acknow- zens in virtue of your having permitted me ledged by the maintenance of a precious and to become the interpreter and exponent of pregnant silence (laughter) on the subject of the general sentiment in their regard. Such the Halifax award. Now,3omeuninstructed a prolonged ovation has seldom been ex- gentleman might imagine this silence tended,! believe, to the head of any Executive 104 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1878 and if a proof were wanting of your loyal- never fail or wither, and to my dying day I ty to our Sovereign, it would be found in shall remember, with feelings which cannot this succession of graceful courtesies to one be expressed in words, the extraordinary whose only claim to your consideration is marks of confidence and goodwill I have the fact of his being her representative. received from the citizens of Montreal. (Great cheering.) For, gentlemen, God for- (Great applause.) And yet if there is one bid that 1 should mistake for a moment the thing more than another which causes me significance of these glorious demonstra- satisfaction in all that you have done and tions. Unless intended to exhibit your de- are doing for me, it is the reflection that the votion to the Throne and Person of our gra- springs from whence your generous benevo- cious Queen—your reverence for the consti- lence, your princely hospitalities ascend, are tution under which you live —they would be perennial, iuexhaustible, aud independent empty, meaningless and vain. (Applause.) for their overflow upon the accidental quali- It is only in this sense that I could either ties of him to whom they are immediately enjoy or accept them. (Cheers.) It may addressed, and that it is in something deeper, be, however—and it would be affectation on more lasting, more significant, than in your my part to ignore the fact—that circum- mere goodwill to an individual official, who stances of a peculiar nature have invested is here to-day and away to-morrow, that the present festival with a character more they have their sacred birth and origin. personal to myself than those with which I (Cheers.) After all, the Viceroys of Canada have been hitherto so frequently greeted. are but " 'a/iievr/vd ncLprjva"—fleeting sha- (Applause.) It is probably for the last time dows and evanescent eidolons that haunt your I have the pleasure of finding myself in history, but scarcely contribute a line to its your presence; and although 1 dislike ex- page. Should we leave behind us a tremely touching upon any egotistical topic, single kindly memory— should our names such a reflection naturally evokes within my hereafter mark a date, or identify a period, it mind many and many a regret. (Great ap- is the most we can aspire to. Half a column plause.) During a period of six years I of a biographical dictionary would suffice to have frequently come amongst you, mingled exhibit the sum of our united achievements ; with your society, taken part in your sports so imperceptibly do we come and go, play and pastimes, interested myself with your our small part, and fade from off the scene. affairs and business, become one with you in But unsubstantial, phantasmal, and imper- thought and feeling, and never have I re- sonal as we may be individually, we never- ceived at your hands, whether in my public theless represent and symbolize, in our uninter- or in my private capacity, anything but the rupted succession, some of the most solid kindest consideration, the most indulgent realities of which the modern world can sympathy, and the warmest welcome. boast, — for are we not the living proofs and (Cheers.) I have known many of you long exponents of the love of a mighty nation for and intimately enough to have watched your the children she has sent forth to enlarge little children grow up into young men her dominion and enhance her renown and maidens, your maidens into wives (great applause), —the affection of a great and mothers, and there is scarcely a family Colony for a Mother Country, that has en- amongst those I see around me with whose dowed her with absolute freedom and legis- domestic joys and sorrows I have not lative independence, —the reverence of a been permitted to sympathize. (Ap- free people for constitutional liberty as secur- plause.) But— what is still more significant ed by monarchical government, —the recog- — this brief period—hardly exceeding a lustre nition by the owners of half a continent of —has enabled me to mark the extension of their right to share a still mightier Imperium your city, the multiplication of your public —the love and loyalty of two chivalrous buildings, of your churches and of your races towards the purest woman and the charitable institutions. (Applause.) But, most duty-loving Sovereign that ever wore best of all, it will have been during mv a crown or wielded a sceptre (long- continued administration of j'our affairs, and under applause), —the unswerving confidence of a my nominal auspices, that will have been modest, God-fearing community in thei laid, in the widening and the perfecting of ability to vindicate their independence, our Lapentian navigation, the ineradicable to elaborate their own destiny, and foundations of your future prosperity, nay, to guard and embellish to the utmost of your commercial supremacy and absolute the glorious inheritance with which dominion over the north-eastern section of they have been endowed by Providence. America. (Tremendous applause.) Well, (Loud and continued applause.) In one re- ladies and gentlemen, ties that have been so spect we are, indeed, but insignificant factors deeply rooted, ties that have been conse- in the system of your national existence ; in crated by such endearing reminiscences, can another we are more than the equal of the " ) —

105 1878 EARL OF DUFFERIN. greatest autocrats that ever terrorized man- upon me by this joint address from your two kind. If then, ladies and gentlemen, I Houses. Regarding, as I do, the now acknowledge, with all the emphasis of utterances of Pariament as the which language is capable, the satisfaction I most august and authoritative ex- have experienced by the exhibition of your pression of the popular sentiment, it affection and goodwill towards the Governor affords me unmeasured satisfaction to be General of Canada, it is not the individual thus assured of the confidence and esteem who thanks you, but the interpreter and of the inhabitants of the Dominion. representative of those indestructible princi- To win the goodwill of a nation is the ples of constitutional government,of Imperial greatest achievement open to human am- unity, and of natural affection which are the bition, and to learn from you that I hold a foundations of your private happiness and place in the affections of the people of Can- public prosperity. ada is alike the highest triumph and the AT THE ARTS ASSOCIATION, MONTREAL. greatest pleasure I am ever likely to enjoy. [Delivered in reply to an address read by It would not become me to enquire how Sir Francis Hiucks, on the 15th of Feb- far this result is to be attributed rather to to any exertions ruary. ] your own generosity than principle root- 11 On the present occasion the reply I am upon my part. It is a happy of all estates about to make will, I think, be as succinct ed in the nature of Englishmen the simple dis- and as hearty, perhaps, as all those that I to content themselves with to their have hitherto had the honour of composing. charge of those duties which lie too curiously to It is a written reply. Every word upon the hand, without considering influence paper has been carefully studied. There is what degree their conduct may in which they are not a word too much in it, or a word too the personal estimation reward, when it little. I will not so far trespass upon the held by others, and their as it is attention of this distinguished audience as arrives, is often as great a surprise say is that to read my reply to the address, but I have a satisfaction. All that I can you I the pleasure of handing it unread to Sir from the moment I came amongst Francis Hincks (His Excellency then hand- have had but one thought— the desire to Queen, ed a cheque to Sir Francis for $100), and I render faithful service to our Canada. have resorted to this course the more readily to the Empire, and to advantages to because 1 am well aware that whereas the If there are no positive from professors of every branch of science, which I can point as having resulted boast I can whether it be connected with Greek or with my administration, there is one has a Latin, with mechanics or metaphysics, with fairly make. No act or word of mine devotion to the military art or any other, think a con- tendency to damp your personal attachment to siderable amouut of previous study is neces- the Crown, to discourage your of sary to be able to speak with authority upon the Empire, or to discredit the system which you it, when we come to art, every one seems Constitutional Government under and 1 leave to think he is a born art critic, and suffi- live. 1 found you a loyal people, ciently capable and intelligent to enlighten you the truest-hearted subjects in Her his fellow-creatures upon any topic. (Hear. Majesty's dominions. I found you proud Without worrying the audience with of your descent and anxious to maintain Couutry any superficial remarks in connection with your connection with the Mother ; art, I will confine myself to making an I leave you more convinced than ever of the announcement on behalf of an honoured and solicitude of Great Britain to reciprocate personal friend, who has been pleased to au- your affection of her dependence on your thorize me to inform those interested in the fidelity in every emergency. I found you objects which have been so eloquently en- men of various nationalities — of Eng- larged upon by the projectors of the address, lish, French, I ish, Scotch, and Gennan that it was his intention at no distant date descent—working out the problems of Con- to enhance the value of Mr. Gibbs' treasures stitutional Government with admirable suc- even a deeper con- by the contribution of a valuable picture cess ; I leave you with -which he had been good enough to say I viction in your minds that the due applica- should put a value upon." (Applause.) tion of the principles of Parliamentary Gov- IN THE SENATE CHAMBER. ernment is capable of resolving every politi- [Delivered in reply to the joint address of cal difficulty, and of controlling the gravest the Senate and House of Commons, in the Ministerial crises, to the satisfaction of the Senate Chamber, on the 16th of April.] people at large, and of their leaders and opinion. " Honourable Gentlemen, —It is diffi- representatives of every shade of cult for me to find befitting words in which When I resign the temporary Viceroyalty to thank you for the signal and unprece- with which I have been invested into the dented honour which has been conferred hands of my Sovereign, I shall be able to 106 THE SPEECHES OF THE 187* assure her that not a leaf has fallen from her people can say anything very much to the maple chaplet, that the lustre of no jewel in purpose. Art is a subject rather of feeling, her transatlantic diadem has been dimmed. than of science, and nothing is so difficult to Thanks to the opportunities afforded me by the render in words as those subtle sensations liberality of Parliament, I have been enabled which objects of Art evoke within our to traverse the fertile regions of your North, breasts. All that I can say is, that I am. West, to appreciate your inexhaustible re- happy to know that such a Society as that sources, and to scan the vast expanse of your in whose gallery we are now assembled territories from the Atlantic to the Pacific. should have established itself in your midst ;. The speeches to which you refer in such and although its beginning may be considered flattering terms have been but the natural, modest, it cannot fail to fulfil a prosperous the irresistible, exclamations evoked by the career. After all, we must remember that sights I have beheld. Closely associated the Academy of Great Britain began pretty with me in the discharge of all my duties much like this Society, and now the corres- has been the lady to whom your address re- ponding ceremony in London to that which fers in so kind a manner. Moving amid a we are celebrating to-day is considered by society, where the proverbial gallantry of everybody in Great Britain as one of the Frenchmen combines with English and great festivals of the year; and the one Celtic chivalry to create in every Canadian public dinner in London which is always re- home an atmosphere of purityaud refiuement garded as a source of pleasure to all those she naturally regards the six years she has who are invited, and an invitation to which passed amongst you as one of the happiest is coveted beyond measure, is the public periods of her life, and I am commissioned to dinner given by the Boyal Academy to those convey to you her warmest thanks for the distinguished gentlemen in the several lines good wishes you have expressed in her re- of politics, literature, and art, who are in gard. In conclusion, allow me to assure you Loudon during the season. 1 trust the time that 1 shall esteem it one of the greatest pri- may not be far distant when this Society vileges of my future life to watch the pro- will find itself sufficiently strong, sufficiently gressive development of your prosperity, to popular, to establish something of a similar advocate your interests in the British Par- entertainment in Toronto. I have to con- liament, and to confirm our fellow-country- gratulate the Society upon the very ex- men at home in their conviction of the high cellent display which it has exhibited on its degree to which Canada is destined to con- walls. I trust it will not be presumptuous tribute to the welfare, the strength, and the if I venture to hazard the opinion that that renown of the British Empire." display indicates marked progress. In the BEFORE THE ONTARIO SCHOOL OF ARTS. first place, there are a fewer number of [Delivered in reply to an address read by pictures, and evidently the Sociehy has been Hon. W. H. Howland, on the 21st of May.] more severe in its selection of those works " Mr. Howland, Ladies and Gentle- which it has thought fit to exhibit to the men, —I assure you that when I accepted an public. There is only one other topic in re invitation to open this Exhibition I was spect to which I would venture to detain quite unprepared for the reception you have you. I dare say there are present to-day given me, and still less for those very kind many young artists who are members of the and gracious words to which Mr. Howland School of Art which is being so liberally has just given utterance, and with which sustained in connection with the Society you have testified your acquiescence. I itself. Let me say to those students, that thought that my duty would be simply con- although it may be perfectly true that they fined to comiug here in company with Mr. may feel themselves at a disadvantage in Howland and my other artistic friends, and having to enter upon their career of study strolling among the pictures as a mere spec- under less favourable circumstances than tator. .Bat under the present circumstances are enjoyed by their fellow-students in the I cannot refrain from assuring you that I great schools of London and of Paris, yet esteem it a very great privilege to have had they should not feel discouraged, be- an opportunity of paying this unexpecte cause, at all events at the outset visit to Toronto, more especially in connec- of the study of Art, very little tion with an object of such importance to is to be obtained from the supervision of this community, and that is so congenial to a master. What they need is perseverance my own tastes and pursuits. Far be it from industry, and, above all, modesty. The na- me, ladies and gentlemen, to .trespass on tural instinct of a student of art is to slur your attention with any dissertation upon over and shirk the very thing upon which Art. That is a suhject upon which every- his future success will depend, namely, the body thinks himself competent to speak ad s jvere study of outline drawing. One's na- infinitum, but with regard to which few tural instinct is to hurry into colour. Now, 1878 E.\RL OF DUFFERIN. 107 let me tell these young persons that iri the men in those more serious occupations which School of Art at Paris no student is allowed heretofore have been, perhaps too exclusive- to touch anything but a piece of charcoal or ly, confined to the male sex. Well, persons a lead pencil for four entire years. For four may differ in regard to several of the direc- years the student is kept strictly and rigidly tions indicated as proper to be pursued by to simple drawing with charcoal and with ladies, but all must be agreed that at all pencil. The result of that is that the French events art is a field of labour in which they are are almost the only people in Europe who equally entitled with men to compete and draw. And yet it is obvious that good excel. There is in London an Artists' Soci- drawing is the very foundation of all excel- ety entirely confined to lady artists^ and lence in art. In England the course has not everybody will tell you that they compare been quite so severe ; and I do not say but most favourably with their brother artist3. that perhaps the French carry their discipline We must also remember that Angelica Kauff- in this respect to too great lengths. In Eng- mann and Madame Le Brun were members land, I think, the course is three years, but of the Royal Academies of their respective there is no doubt that the very first thing a countries ; and inasmuch as it is not a ques- student has to do is to tell himself that be- tion of muscular power so much as of delicacy fore he attempts to indulge in those brilliant of touch and handling, in these respects fancies which adorn his dreams he must first women are pre-eminently endowed. Conse- learn to draw. It must be remembered that quently, I am glad to observe that amongst as beautiful a work of art can be produced the members of this Society there are to be on a sheet of common letter paper with a reckoned several ladies ; and I only trust common pencil as with anything else, if the that as time goes on their ranks will be still artist only knows how to use his pencil. For further recruited. Ladies and gentlemen, I instance, if you go to the great halls of art now conclude these brief observations with, in London, in Paris, in Dresden, or in Rome, in the first place, wishing you and the Soci- you will find displayed sketches in pen and ety every possible success ; and in the next, ink, charcoal, and pencil which would now with returning to you my warmest and sell for thousands of pounds. These studies heartiest thanks for the pleasant reception have been left for the admiration of future which you have given me, for the opportunity generations by the great names of antiquity which you have afforded me of seeing again —by Michael Angelo, Raphael, Correggio, so many friendly and well-known faces, and and the other artists of the several countries above all things for the extremely kind and to which I have referred. And it must not touching expression with which Mr. How- be supposed that this severe discipline, if it land has been good enough to interpret your is really encountered in the proper spirit, is feelings towards myself and Lady Dufferin. devoid- of the greatest satisfaction. On the (Loud applause. ) One further duty I have contrary, if a really zealous art student will to pel form, and that is to declare this Exhi- condescend to shut himself up with what are bition open." called ' blocks ' —that is, with square, TO THE AMERICAN VOLUNTEERS, round, and hexagonal pieces of wood—he will [Delivered at the sham fight in Montreal, be able to arrange these blocks in the most on the 24th of May.] interesting forms, and he will discover iu a "Soldiers and Citizens of the Great little time that he is capable of enjoying the American Republic, —I cannot allow the very greatest excitement in delineating these opportunity to escape of expressing to you, forms with correctness ; and his success will both on my own behalf, on behalf of the Go- convince him that this is not only a very vernment and country, and on behalf of Her greaW;riumph, but one of the very best step- Gracious Majesty, whose representative I am, ping-stones towards excellence in art. Then the extreme satisfaction which I experience he will proceed from drawing outlines to in thus being able to welcome you as guests drawings in black and white, and perhaps in the name of the people of Canada to the eventually, if he has faithfully pursued his soil of the Dominion. (Cheers.) A greater course, he will be permitted to indulge in a compliment could hardly be paid by one little colour, and so he will go on from step country to another than that which you have to step, all the time feeling that every day been good enough to confer upon us by thus and every hour he is acquiring greater power joining with our fellow-citizens and soldiers and greater facility, until at last his plea- in celebrating the birthday of our Queen. sure becomes so great that words cannot de- (Loud cheers. ) I accept the demonstration scribe it. And such a course has this fur- upon your part as an additional proof of that ther advantage—that it is as open to women undisturbed friendship which I trust will al- as to men. Now-a-days the attention of the ways prevail hereafter between the two coun- world is very properly turned to the various tries ; and, furthermore, I have to congratu- respects in which women can take part with late you upon your admirable soldierly ap- 108 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1S78

pearance. Although I am a civilian to-day, passed on to my entire satisfaction, and I yet, once having occupied the position of now beg to tender my best thanks—and I Tjnder Secretary for War in Great Britain, render this acknowledgment not only on and from having had occasion to make my- my own behalf, but on behalf of my fellow- self acquainted more than most civilians spectators, and of the country at large —to with military affairs, it is scarcely pre- the Lieutenant-General who has planned, to sumptuous in me if I venture to pay you the Militia authorities who have organized, that well-merited compliment. I trust we and to the officers and men who, at great shall be able to make your visit to the personal sacrifice and inconvenience, have city sufficiently agreeable to you, not only executed and carried out the triumphant in such a manner as will please you while celebration with which we have this morning you remain with us, but that we may entice saluted the birthday of onr Most Gracious you to return, and not only yourselves, but Sovereign. (Cheers.) It is not forme to others of your countrymen to imitate your indicate even by praise, the professional ; example upon future occasions." excellences of the manoeuvres. That plea- surable task will be performed in due time TO THE MONTREAL BRIGADE. by a more competent authority. But there [Delivered at a banquet in the evening of is one characteristic of to-day's perform- the same occasion.] ances, at all events, which must have at- " Gentlemen, —I thank you most hearti- tracted everyone's attention—that is, the ly for the cordial manner in which you have magnificent appearance, the patriotic en- drunk my health. I should have felt I had thusiasm, the spirited alacrity, the loyal lost one of the pleasures to which my office sentiments which have been exhibited by legitimately entitles me, had I been compel- each and all of the regiments that have led to leave Canada without taking part in paraded before us. Though I should be such a celebration as the present. During very far from wishing to depreciate the the whole term of my office, I have never effects of training and discipline in produc- had an opportunity of seeing myself sur- ing efficiency, we must all admit—even the rounded by the representatives of our Cana- greatest martinets amongst us—that such a dian Forces. It is true, I have had the good lively spirit of patriotism, such an exuberant fortune to come into individual contact with alacrity in the performance of their military most of the distinguished officers of the duties, as have been exhibited to-day by Dominion, but until now I have never seen our soldiers, is the first step towards the them gathered round me in their corporate formation of victorious battalions. Happily, capacity. On my arrival in Ottawa, six the prospect of the Dominion being required years ago, one of my first duties was to go to array itself in defence of its homes to a review at Kingston, but since then, un- and liberties is remote. We have but one til to-day, I have never had a chance of see- nation for our immediate neigbour, and with ing any large body of troops assembled in the that nation we are united by long tradition, field. My experience of the military itnue by a community of interests, and by a con- of Canada has been confined to guards of tinual interchange of courtesies, — in indis- honour. (Laughter.) Of these, I have soluble friendship (hear, hear), while those seen a greater number, and in a greater foreigners who, under any unhappy circum- variety of placet, than the Sovereign of the stances, might attempt to assail us, are re-

most military nation in the world ; and, mote and separated from our shores by though a civilian, I have acquired as good leagues of sea. It is true, of late there have an eye for criticizing this special and peculiar been heard a few vague and probably exag- formation as my friend the Lieutenant- gerated rumours of a certain amount of

of this morning, cannot well be conceived. tice ; but for generations England has (Cheers.) From first to last everything has strained every nerve'to make reparation for 878 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 109

those wrongs. (Hear, hear.) However dis- exhalation—be dispersed along our southern posed, therefore, we may be to make allow- boundary, what is there behind it in that ance for the circumstances which may have direction but illimitible sunshine, and the generated these inimical passions, if they prospect of perpetual peace? (Hear, hear.) take effect in acts of outrage aud murder— if It is true, even so, we are still liable to in- the peaceful homesteads of Canada are to be vasion, and to-day we have witnessed how ravaged by bands of marauders, who can soldier-like and martial is the array of our have no possible quarrel with her peaceable Southern neighbours. (Loud cheers.) But inhabitants, such violence—a violence which if they have forced the bulwarks of our land, outrages every law recognized by civilized if they have penetrated to the heart of our mankind—must be suppressed with unhesi- richest city, if they have established them-

tating firmness (hear, hear) ; but, as I said selves within the precincts of our camp, it before, I cannot bring myself to believe in has only been to give us a fresh proof of the the possibility of so great a wrong. During kindly feelings entertained for us by them- my various progresses through the country I selves and their fellow-countrymen in the have come into contact with hundreds and States, perhaps to lay siege to the hearts of hundreds of kindly Irishmen, labouring in our young ladies (laughter) and to join with the field, the forest, by the river side, or in us in doing honour to our Gracious Queen. the mine, and never did I meet one who did In the name, then, of all those who are pre- not give me a hearty welcome, both as a sent—of the Volunteer Army of Canada, of the represen- the people of Canada, I bid fellow-countryman and as them welcome ; tative of the Queen. (Loud cheers.) Hap- and, inasmuch as it is the habit of every pily for Canada, these Irishmen are sown politic Government to extend to deeds of broadcast through the land, and are intimate- military daring substantial rewards, I hereby ly associated with their fellow-citizens of promise to every American soldier citizen French, English and Scotch descent. They who is now present, or shall ever after take are contented, prosperous and luyal. Yet part in our reviews, a free-grant farm within it is these Irish homes—where the the Arctic Circle the day he takes the oath kindliness, hospitality, the wit and the of allegiance. (Loud aud continued laugh- mirth of old Ireland livesuuder such happy ter.) But, though wT e have thus disposed in auspices—which are to be involved, together the most satisfactory manner of all possible with those of their British and French neigh- foes within the circuit of our immediate bours, in these unnatural hostilities. (Hear, vision, it is not the less necessary, on that hear.) What cause of quarrel has the inva- account, that we should take those precau- der with the people of Canada which our tions which every nation since the world own Irish fellow-citizens could not themselves began has found requisite for its safety. Let allege, had they a mind to do so? (Hear, us learn a lesson from the fate of the aborigi- hear. ) Nor are the Irish the only nationality nal inhabitants of this very continent. We within our borders who might, if they chose, read in the pages of Prescott, how happy translate historical wrongs into actual war- and careless were their lives, how destitute fare. Half the population of Glengarry, I of fear, as they sported and. slept beneath believe, fled to this country, if not from Cul- the umbrageous shelter of their tropical loden, at all events from their Highland groves. War with them had ceased to be an homes, to avoid the tyranny of him whom imaginable contingency, every possible foe they called a usurper, whose great-grand- had disappeared from the limits of their daughter now sits upon the throne ; yet isolated world, yet suddenly, unexpectedly, where is there to be found a more loyal peo- coming from whence none knew, there stood ple in the world than the people of Glen- upon their shores steel-clad men, armed with garry ? In considering, therefore, the possi- the thunderbolts of death, and in a few short ble occasions on which we may have to rely years that harmless, flower-crowned people upon the valour of our gallant troops, I re- were annihilated—their altars, cit'es and ject with horror from my thoughts the. idea temples laid wa^te and desolate. Happily, that they should ever be called upon to shed the repetition of such a catastrophe in our the blood of even the most inconsiderate or case is impossible ; but, for all that, a war irreconcilable of our Irish fellow country- cloud seems to be gathering in Europe, men. Nay, on a day of peril, if in the Cana- which may involve the entire Empire in its dian line of battle 1 could find a regiment dreadful shadow. As members of that Em- more essentially Irish in its composition than pire, as men of British descent, as subjects of the rest, it would be to the keeping of that Queen Victoria, it may be necessary for us to regiment I would by preference entrust the face the responsibilities which our national- standard of the Queen and the flag of the ity entails. You have seen by the papers Dominion. (Great cheering.) And, gentle- the precautions your Government has taken men, if this cloud—or rather, phantasmal to protect that—happily for us—restricted )

Ill) THE SPEECHES OF THE 1878

portion of our seaboard which is within this broad Dominion he has that which it is

reach of an enemy's assault ; but I am proud worth while both to live for and to die for."' to thiuk that the spirit of Canadian patriot- (Loud and long-continued cheers. ism has not confined itself merely to these FAREWELL TO OTTAWA. exertions. Almost every mail has brought [Delivered in reply to an address from the either to me, or to the Prime Minister, or to Mayor and Corporation on the 7th of June.} the Minister of Militia, the most enthusiastic " Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen,— I am offers to serve in the Queen's armies abroad moved more than 1 dare trust myself to say in the event of foreign war. (Loud cheers.) by the kind address with which you have These offers have represented not merely the just honoured me, breathing as it does a enthusiasm of individuals, but of whole regi- spirit of personal regard and affection, ments and brigades of men. (Renewed rather than that of official compliment.

cheers. ) It has been my duty to transmit As you say, for six years my wife and I them to the Home Government, and to the have lived amongst you, I might almost say

foot of the Throne ; and I should be failing in the intimacy of domestic intercourse. in my duty if I neglected to tell you that Our daily occupations, interests and amuse- they have been duly appreciated, not only by ments have been more or less identical with the Queen's Ministers, but by the Queen her- your own. Two of our children are your

self. (Prolonged cheering. ) It will, undoubt- fellow-citizens ; and no embellishment has edly, require a great deal of consideration to enhanced the beauty and dignity of your determine to what extent, and in what man- lovely city that has not occasioned as much ner, advantage is to be taken of such noble pride and pleasure to us as it coul^ have self-devotion. Happily the time has not yet done to you. Indeed, among the many re- arrived, and I trust to God it may never do grets which our departnre entails upon us, so, for giving practical effect to the sugges- by no means the least is the thought that

tions which have been received ; but I feel we shall no longer have the daily pleasure of that I could not have a better oppoitunity admiring, and re-admiring, your Parliament- of recording and emphasizing facts so indica- ary buildings, which, both as regards their tive of the martial and loyal spirit of the site, their architectural splendour and pictur- Canadian people as those I have indicated. esque and regal outline, excel all others No, gentlemen—God grant that many a long that exist upon this continent. It year may pass before the note of warlike has been a deep regret to me to learn preparation rings through the quiet hamlets, that, for the last two or three years, Ottawa the sun-lit fields, and the prosperous cities of has shared in that commercial depression Canada, But should the evil day arrive, which has been so severely felt, not only over let it find us prepared and ready to do our the whole of this continent, but in every duty. (Hear, hear.) It is not by undisciplined European country. Happy should I levies, however enthusiastic, that the homes have been had this cause of anxiety and liberties of a country can be guarded. completely disappeared before my

Every day war is becoming a more compli- departure ; but though the sky be still cated science, the problems of which can only overcast, already I think a lightening of the be successfully dealt with by highly organ- atmosphere can be discerned in various ized battalions and trained and scientific quarters, nor have I the slightest hesitation officers. Above all, remember, things are in predicting the fairest prospects for your not with you as they were a few short years future fortunes. Independently of the ago. British North America is no longer the lumber trade, which cannot fail congeries of disconnected Provinces, destitute shortly to revive, there are many circum- of any strong bond of sympathy or mutual stances which point to ihe inevitable in- attachment. You are no longer Colonists or crease in the wealth, importance and dignity Provincials—you are the owners, the defen- of your city. I suspect that the mineral ders and guardians of half a continent—of a resources of the region which surrounds you land of unbounded promise and predestinated will prove very considerable. You will

renown. (Hear, hear. ) That thought alone eventually find yourselves on the shortest, should make men and soldiers of you all. the cheapest and most important of all the Life would scarcely be worth living, unless lines of railway between the Atlantic and the

it gave us something for whose sake it was Pacific : while the expanding power, wealth worth while to die. Outside our domestic and energies of this great Dominion will circle there are not many things that come necessarily stimulate the vitality, and enhance up to that standard of value. But one of the importance of its legislative metropolis these you possess—a country you can be But it^ is not on these public topics I had

proud of ; and never should a Canadian for- intended to speak to you. It is not the Gov- get, no matter what his station in life, what ernor-General of Canada who is addressing

ins origin or special environments, that in you, but your fellow-townsman ; and speak- —

1878 EAKL OF DUFFERIN. Ill ing both on Lady Dufferin's behalf, and on leads me to pay every mark of reverence in my my own, I can assure you that no two power to this University. My experience in people can have ever passed six happier Canda has taught me to prize at a higher years than we have done beneath the roof value than ever, the influences which ema- of Rideau. The consciousness of the many nate from these centres of intellectual effort friendships we have made, of the kindly and moral vigour. Although civilization feelings displayed to us by persons of all has been in possession of America for nearly creeds, classes and professions, will serve to 300 years—although its population has at- enhance for the rest of our lives the happy tained so enormous an expansion, our ener- recollections of these times ; and I trust gies are for the most part of necessity still that from henceforth, not only shall I my- engaged in contending with the brute f< rcas self have many opportunities of being of use of nature,and in converting to our uses those to you, both collectively and individually, endless tracts of territory which have passed but that it will remain a tradition in my into our possession. As a consequence 1 have house to love and serve Canada and ber observed that in Canada,and perhaps the ob- people." servation may be equally applicable to this AT HARVARD UNIVERSITY. country, there is some little danger of the [Delivered before the Alumni Association more ideal side of life being lost and for- at dinner on the 26th of June. [ gotten—of our attention being too exclusive- " Mr. President and Gentlemen, — ly turned to providing for the material well- Among the many privileges attaching to my being of society—and of the successful accu- high office as representative of Her Majesty mulation of wealth becoming the principal in Canada, there is none to which I have at- title to social,, consideration. Now to such tached greater value than the opportunities unfortunate tendencies and conclusions, these which it has afforded me of cultivating sacred workshops of the brain are the most friendly relations with the Government and powerful correctives ; for here we are the people of the United States (applause) ; taught to recognize the existence of posses- but although ere now I have had opportuni- sions more valuable than anything which ties of addressing American audiences, I either money or power can procure, and that have never found myself in the presence of a the noblest aim of life is not merely to make more august assembly than the present. a fortune, or to leave an estate to our descen Standing in a hall—itself an historical monu- dants—though these may be perfectly legi- ment such as no European University can timate and honourable objects of ambition boast of—in the presence of many whose but to elevate the moral standard of our achievements as statesmen, as men of generation; to enlarge the limits and capaci- science, as poets, as historians, as lawyers, ties of human thought; to restrain the en- have won for them the admiration of the croachments of sin, sickness, poverty, igno- civilized world (applause) —environed by the rance, corruption, and dishonesty ; and to effigies of your old Colonial worthies and render our Fatherland a still more glorious Governors— of the Winthrops and Endicotts home for our children even than it has been of early days, as well as by those of the for ourstlves. Such are the lessons that you heroes of the Independence period, of the teach, and when I remember that this nation Adamses, Franklins, Jeffersons of the last —so gifted by Providence with all the bless- century—nay, seated at the same board with ings which a bounteous Nature can confer, the distinguished descendants of those so successful in the art of self-government, famous men, I might well shrink from in- so removed from the disturbing influences of truding myself upon your attention. At external forces, its social system so untram- the same time I cannot help remembering melled by traditional anomalies— is adorned that I now stand beneath the maternal roof, throughout its length and breadth with many and can appeal to every one present in right and many a noble seminary of learning, that, of those brotherly relations which have been fired by your example, is rivalling your ef- established between us. (Applause) En- forts, I cannot but hope that hand in hand couraged by these considerations,! should be with our own Cnnada it is destined to show wanting in courtesy if I did not seize the op- the world by what sure and simple methods portunity of expressing to the authorities of the happiness of the human race may be im- this University my veiy deep sense of the measurably increased. (Great applause.) honour conferred upon me by permitting me But, gentlemen, it is not these considerations to enter the ranks of its alumni. (Applause.) alone which move me to express my grati- The loving veneration with which I regard tude for the honour you have done me. I my own Alma Mater of Oxford is in itself a have long had the good fortune of knowing sufficient security that I duly appreciate the some of the most distinguished personages of privileges to which I have been admitted. New England—Mr. Adams (applause), Mr. But I confess there is a further reason which Longfellow (applause), Mr. Emerson (ap- ) —

112 THE SPEECHES OF THE 187*

plause), Mr. Holmes (applause), Mr. Lowell my abode. Certainly no Viceroy could (applause), and I am now the guest of one have entered upon his career under happier whose own literary and political career has auspices than those you had prepared for me. added fresh lustre to the name of the foun- Since tha„ time Lady Dufferin and myself der of your commonwealth, of whom he is have had the happiness of frequently revisit- the direct descendant and representative, ing our summer home witnin your lofty and with whom I am happv to think I am Citadel, and at each return that home has entitled to claim close kinship. (Applause.) become endeared to us by ever brightening At home I have sometimes had the privilege associations, and the cementing of closer of welcoming to my roof no lesser men than fiend ship. Year by year I have had better op- Prescott, Hawthorne, Story, Motley (great portunities of appreciating the devotion of applause), and when I consider that through the inhabitants of the Province of Quebec to your grace I have been domiciled,so to speak, the Throne and Government of the (^ueen.and precincts of that same Alma to the within the interests of the Empire ; and nothing Mater whence these great and noble men de- has given me greater pride than to observe, rived their inspiration, and where, during a when a cloud of war recently threatened youth of high endeavour and unceasing in- Great Britain, & that Her Majesty's French dustry and self-sacrifice, they laid sure and Canadian subjects were not a whit behind deep the foundations of that world- vide fame their English, Scotch and Irish fellow-citi- which now reflects such honour upon the zens in testifying their willingness to rally University which sent them forth, I am to the defence of Her dominions. It naturally deeply sensible of the privileges is quite true that the distinctions of thus conferred upon me. (Great applause. race which exist within the borders of Can- For while we gentlemen of the outside ada complicate to a certain decree those world have been merely occupied in those problems of government with which the material pursuits which minister to the well- statesmen of the country are periodically being of ourselves and families, each of these, called upon to deal, but the inconveniences in their several lines of literary or artistic which may sometimes arise from this source achievement, have endowed their country are more than counterbalanced by many ad- with whatThucydides with such proud pres- vantages which ensue from it." I do not cience pronounced his history would prove a think that ethnological homogeneity is an ' Ktema es aei. In conclusion, gentlemen, I unmixed benefit to a country. Certainly cannot sit down without expressing to you the least attractive characteristic of a great my warmest admiration of the scene at whi ;h portion of the continent is the monotony of 1 was permitted to assist this morning. The many of its outward aspects, and I consider dignity and decorum of the ceremonial attend- it fortunate for Canada that her prosperity ing the granting of your degrees has made a should be founded on the co-operation of most profound impression upon my mind. different races. The inter-action of national Above all, when I consider the amount of idiosyncrasies introduces into ^our existence rhetorical ability, of philosophical acumen, a freshness, a variety, a colour, an eclectic of practical appreciation both of economical impulse, which otherwise would be wanting ; and political questions exhibited by those of and it would be most faulty statesmanship your students to whose exercitations we had to seek their obliteration. My warmest as- the pleasure of listening, I canuot help say- piration for this Province has always been ing to myself, if the Young America of to see its French inhabitants executing for to-day is capable of so satisfactory an exhibi- Canada the functions which France herself tion, what may we not expect from its ma- has so admirably performed for Europe. turer and more serious efforts in the time to Strike from European history the achieve- come." (Prolonged applause.) ments of France—subtract from Europe an TO THE QUEBEC LEGISLATUEE. civilization the contributions of France,

[Delivered before the Members of the an*l what a blank would be occasioned ! Quebec Legislature, in reply to an address I am very sensible of your goodness in re- presented on the 22nd of June] feiring in such flattering terms to my humble " Hon. Gentlemen and Gentlemen,— endeavours to promote the embellishment To say that 1 am deeply moved by the ad- (f your city, by the preservation and adorn- dr

have found a difficulty in obtaining employ- Hitherto, in Canada, a sharp line has divided ment. In conclusion, allow me to express to you the occupants of the urban from those of in Lady Dufferin's name, her deep sense of the the rural population. (Hear, hear.) The compliment paid to her in your address. In farmers of Canada have constituted a class no part of the Dominion has she met with by themselves, nor as a rule have our sue- greater courtesy, with more chivalrous and cessful traders and merchants been often considerate attention, than in the city of tempted to remove with their accumulated Quebec, and never will its picturesque out- wealth into the country, from the neighbour- lines, or the lovely scenery which surrounds hood of those marts and haunts of commerce it, fade from her memory or from mine." which witnessed their early struggles and AT GRANBY. ultimate success. As a consequence, the [Delivered in reply to an address, on the prospects and advantages supposed to be con. 20th of August.] nected with a mercantile career have become " Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen, invested with a prestige and importance —I would require far greater ingenuity than which experience does not always prove to even an accomplished speaker might possess, have belonged to them, and our farmers' to vary those expressions of delight and sous, instead of being contented to stick to satisfaction to which every Governor-General agricultural pursuits, have been thus tempted must desire to give utterance, when making —with insufficient capital, scant experience, an official tour through any part of Canada, and defective training—to set up as small so cordial, so universal, so loyal is the recep- traders, to their own ruin, and the great dis- tion he meets with in every hamlet, village, advantage of the country. (Hear, hear) town or city through which he passes. In- Now, this undoubtedly is an evil. Important deed I must fairly admit to you that my and essential to our wealth and greatness as vocabulary of felicitation and panegyric has may be our mercantile and manufacturing been almost exhausted by the never-ending industries, agriculture must, almost of evidences I meet with of the contentment and necessity, constitute for many a long day patriotism of the Canadian people. And yet, the chief resource and employment of the in almost every district I traverse there are major part of the community, and it is to our nearly always to be found some peculiar and agricultural population that we must look novel features, affording fresh and unaccus- for the settlement of the North-West, the tomed grounds upon which to congratulate general enlargement of our borders, the its inhabitants. Certainly nowhere do these increment of our bulk, and the advancement exist in greater abundance than in the East- of our importance as a far-spreading nation. ern Townships, which seem to comprise (Applause.) Any circumstance, therefore, within their area all the advantages which which even in an indirect manner gives a one would desire to congregate within the higher character to our agricultural system, circuit of an ideal kingdom (applause) : which elevates its reputation as a lucrative beautiful scenery, where mountain, hill and enterprise, which develops its amenities, or dale, woodland, lake and river, are mingled adds value to its products, will prove of together in the most picturesque confusion ; immeasurable advantage. (Hear, hear.) To convenient means of communication with the this end I believe the peculiar characteristics adjacent centres of population both in Canada of this region will powerfully contribute. and the States ; breadths of agricultural (Applause.) With such attractive scenery, land of the best quality, and such pastures within so short a distance of Montreal, pos- as have enabled those enterprising gentlemen sessing every charm and advantage which a who devote themselves to the raising of country life can offer, it will be impossible cattle, to bring x,o market beasts which vie, for our wealthier citizens much longer to con- both in reputation and the prices they fetch, tent themselves with that suburban-villa life with those produced by the most noted - —only broken by a few weeks' trip to some breeders in England (hear, hear) ; while the watering-place—which they now affect. entire population seems to be animated bv a Following the wise example set them by Sir spirit of energy and enterprise which" is Hugh Allan, by Senator Cochrane, by Mr. letermined to do more than justice to the Brown, by Mr. Christie and others, they naterial advantages placed within its will create for themselves, instead, a rural 'each. In fact, the conditions of this pe- paradise beside the lovely lakes and rivers :uliar and beautiful region are so remarkable which decorate your neighbourhood, and I hat it is here, I venture to prophesy, will be am very much mistaken if the rich lands by leveloped a phase of our many-sided Cana- which they will find their residences sur- .ian existence, which, though now in its rounded will not arouse within their breasts pfancy, cannot fail eventually to assume that instinctive love for the cultivation [onsiderable of proportions, and to add greatly the soil which is the primeval passion of the well-being and happiness of a large p mankind. (Applause.) Hence we shall se roportion of the community. (Applause.) established amongst us what will prove by n° ) !

114 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1873 means an undesirable adjunct to our present sure they will be, into innumerable parks, social sy&tem, the Canadian country gentle- homesteads, farms and villas, justly entitling man setting an example to the whole neigh- it to be called the Garden of Canada, while bourhood—by the judicious application of here and there shall rise in frequent cluster his capital to the land—of what a highly the augmented spires, roofs and chimneys of 8cientitic agriculture can acomplish, and those prosperous little towns, through whose inoculating, so to speak, every country side bright pavilioned streets we have recently with a strain of thoroughbred horses, held our triumphal way. (Loud applause.) cattle, sheep, and swine, which will still Such, at least, gentlemen, is the destiny I further stimulate the nascent trade we have anticipate for you and your neighbours ; and, recently established in live and dead stock if affectionate wishes were of any avail, if a with the Mother Country. (Hear, hear.) So magic wand could work the miracle, the many poets have so sweetly sung of the picture I have drawn should become a reality

delights of a rural life that I will not expa- this very minute. But, alas ! to labour and tiate upon them. Agriculture, ' the in- to wait is the lot of mankind. It only re- vention of gods, and the employment of mains, therefore, for me to bid you go on heroes,' —as Lord Beaconsfield once describ- and prosper in loyal fidelity to those blessed ed it, is still undoubtedly a most honourable traditions which have already secured to you and agreeable pursuit. (Hear, hear. ) If it peace and order, freedom and self-govern- does "not promote the accumulation of ment, honour and renown, within the wide individual wealth so rapidly as other circuit of that glorous Empire of which you kinds of industry, it distributes it more are by uo means the least pleasing ornament. equally, especially when, a3 is the case in (Loud applause.) Gentlemen, I will con- this country, almost every cultivator owns clude by telling you a story : You know it that Bostonians are fail the land he tills ; nor can be doubted that not supposed to in the establishment here and there throughout the virtue of self-appreciation. Well, a the country districts, of a class of persons school inspector from that city was visiting blessed with means, leisure, education, and a certain seminary in New England, and, trained intelligence, and at the same time after describing to his young audience a little united, by a community of pursuits, tastes, boy whom he once knew as possessing every and interests, with the mass of the popula- possible juvenile virtue, such as never being tion which surrounds them, would have a late for school, never blotting his copy books, most beneficial effect in stimulating the never telling a story, or omitting an exer- general advancement, intellectual, moral, cise, he concluded by asking the children in ' and material, of the entire rural community. solemn tones : And where do you think] (Applause.) Upon the advantages which he is now?' With one acclaim the little boys ' they themselves would derive from such cried out : In Heaven, sir.' (Great laugh- dilate. methods of existence I need not ter. ) With a somewhat disconcerted visage 1 life, * They would discover a fresh interest in the school inspector replied : No ! no while the happy, exactly in is fresh beauties in nature, not Heaven ; but—he keeping healthful influences amid which their children a store in Boston.' (Great laughter.) Well,! would grow up, the simplicity of habits they gentlemeu, for ' keeping a store in Boston,' would engender, could not fail to prove a I would have substituted, he is at the blessing to every succeeding generation. plough-tail in the Townships." (Tremen- (Applause. ) I believe that the noblest virtues dous applause and laughter. and the best characteristics possessed by TO THE MUNICIPALITIES OF ONTARIO. Englishmen are to be traced to their love of [Delivered in reply to the joint addres certain am I that English at Quebec, on the 5th of September.] a country life ; and young women would not be half so nice, so " Gentlemen, —I hardly know in what rosy, so frank, so beautiful, so robust, so terms I am to reply to the address I have modest, so simple as they are, if they were just listened to, so signal is the honoui not for the most part ' country-bred.' (Hear, which you have conferred upon me. That hear.) Although, therefore, the change may a whole Province, as large, as important, not be immediate, I think you will see from flourishing as manyS a European kingdoi the allusions I have made that the beautiful should erect into an Embassy the Mayors and fertile districts you inhabit are destined its cities, —the delegates of its urban an< to be a powerful factor in promoting the well- rural municipalities, —and despatch them oi I granted a of several hundred miles, to convey being of the country ; and, were a journey wish, I do not know that I could make a to a humble individual like myself an better choice than to aek for the privilege of pression of the personal goodwill of the cor revisiting this lovely district some fifty or stituencies they represent, is a circumstanc a hundred years hence, to see its rolling unparalleled in the history of Canada, or plains and woodlands carved out, as I am any other Colony. (Loud cheers.) Tc 1S78 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 115 stand as I now do in the presence of so many United States, 'his literary and artistic tastes, distinguished persons, who have put them- his foreign travel, will all combine to render selves to great personal inconvenience on him intelligently sympathetic with every my account, only adds to my embarrass- phase and aspect of your national life. (Great ment. And yet, gentlemen, I cannot pre- applause.) Above all, he comes of a good a stock that is to say,jpf a tend not to be delighted with such genuine | Whig — family whose regard on the part of the prominence in history is founded the •demonstration of | upon

large-hearted inhabitants of the great Pro- i sacrifices they have made in the cause of

vince in whose name you have addressed me ; constitutional liberty. (Cheers.) When a for, quite apart the couple of a man's ancestors have perished (loud applause), from | on

personal gratification I experience, you are ! the, scaffold as martyrs in the cause of politi-

teaching all future administrators of our af- i cal and religious freedom, you may be sure is fairs a lesson which you may be sure they ! there little likelihood of their descendant

will gladly lay to heart, —since it will show ! seeking to encroach, when acting as the repre- them with how rich a reward you are ready 1 sentative of the Crown, upon the privileges

to pay whatever slight exertions it may be ! of Parliament or the independence of the their power to make on your behalf. people. (Loud cheers. ) As for your future within j

(Applause.) And when in the history of i Princess it would not become me to enlarge

your Dominion could such a proof of your I upon her merits—she will soon be amongst more opportunely shown ? you, taking all hearts by storm by the grace, generosity be A | few weeks ago the heart of every man and the suavity, the sweet simplicity of her J in Canada was profoundly moved by manners, life and conversation. (Tremen- woman j the intelligence, not only that the Govern- dous applause.) Gentlemen, if ever there ment of Great Britain was about to send out was a lady who in her earliest youth had representative to this country formed a high ideal of T a noble life as England's j w hat of most promising among the younger should be if ever there was a human being one the i — public men, but that the tried to make the of the generation of our | who most oppor- entrust to the tunities within her reach, for Queen herself was about to j and to create keeping of the people of Canada her own herself, in spite of every possible trammel

daughter. (Great applause. ) If you desired and impediment, a useful career and occa- any illustration of the respect, the affection, sions of benefiting her fellow-creatures, it is the confidence with which you are regarded the Princess Louise, whose unpretending ex- by your fellow- subjects and by your Sove- ertions in a hundred different directions to be reign at home, what greater proof could you of service to her country and generation, have require than this, or what more gratifying, already won for her an extraordinary amount

more delicate, more touching recognition of popularity at home. ( Applause. ) When to could have rewarded your never-failing love this you add an artistic genius of the highest and devotion for the Mother Country and its order, and innumerable other personal gifts Ruler? (Cheers.) But though Parliament and accomplishments, combined with manners and the citizens of Canada may well be proud so gentle, so unpretending, as to put everjr one of the confidence thus reposed in them, be- who comes within reach of her influence at lieve me when I tell you that, quite apart perfect ease, you cannot fail to understand from these especial considerations, you may chat England is not merely sending you a well be congratulated on the happy choice Royal Princess of majestic lineage, but a which has been made in the person of Lord good and noble woman, in whom the Lome for the future Governor-General of humblest settler or mechanic in Canada will Canada. It has been my good fortune to be find an intelligent and sympathetic friend. connected all my life long with his family (Cheers.) Indeed, gentlemen, I hardly by ties of the closest personal friendship. know which pleases me most, the thought Himself I have known, I may say, almost that the superintendence of your destinies is from his boyhood, and a more conscientious, to be confided to persons so worthy of the high-minded or better qualiiiedViceroy could trust, or that a dear friend of my own like not have been selected. (Great applause.) Lord Lome, and a personage for whom I Brought up under exceptionally fortunate entertain such respectful admiration as I do conditions, it is ?needless to say he has pro- for the Princess Louise, should commence fited to themtmost by the*advantages placed their future labours in the midst of a com- within his reach, many of which will have munity so indulgent, so friendly, so ready fitted him in an especial degree for his present to take the will for the deed, so generous in post. His public school and college educa- their recognition of any effort to serve them, tion, his experience of the House of Com- as you have proved yourselves to be. And

mons, his large personal acquaintance with yet, alas ! gentlemen, pleasant and agree- the representatives of all that is most dis- able as is the prospect for you and them, tinguished in the intellectual world of the we must acknowledge there is one drawback I)

116 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1878 to the picture. Lord Lome has, as I have gies have wrought than the one in which we said, a multitude of merits, but even spots are at this moment engaged ? Standing, as will be discovered on the sun, and unfortu- we do, upon this lofty platform, surrounded nately an irreparable, and. as I may call it a by those antique and historical fortifications, congenital defect attaches to this appoint- so closely connected with infant fortunes of ment. Lord Lome is not an Irishman ! the colony, one cannot help contrasting the (Great laughter.) It is not his fault—he did present scene with others of an analogous the best he could for himself—(renewed character which have been frequently en- laughter) —he came as near the right thing acted upon the very spot. The early Gov- as possible by being born a Celtic High- ernors of Canada have often received in Que- lander. (Continued laughter.) There is no bec, deputies from the very districts from doubt the world is best administered by which each of you have come, but in those Irishmen. (Hear, hear.) Things never days the sites now occupied by your pros- went better with us either at home or abroad perous towns, the fields you till, the rose- than when Lord Palmerston ruled Great clad bowers, and trim lawns where your Britain (cheers)—Lord Mayo governed India children sport in peace, were then dense (cheers) —Lord Monck directed the destinies wildernesses of primeval forest, and those of Canada (cheers) —and the Robinsons, the who came from thence on and errand here, Kennedys, the Laffans, the Callaghans, the were merciless savages, seeking the presence Gores, the Hennesys administered the of the Viceroy either to threaten war and affairs of our Australian colonies and West vengeance, or at best to proffer a treacherous

Indian possessions. (Loud applause. ) Have and uncertain peace. Now, little could not even the French at last made the same Montmagny, or Tracy, or Vaudreuil, or discovery in the person of Marshal Mac- Frontenac, have ever imagined on such occa- Mahon ? (Laughter and applause.) But sions, that for the lank dusky forms of the still we must be generous, and it is right Iroquois or Ottawa emissaries, would one day Scotchmen should have a turn. (Laughter. be substituted the beaming countenances and After all, Scotland only got her name be- burly proportions of English-speaking Mayors cause she was conquered by the Irish (ereat and Aldermen and Reeves. (Applause. > laughter)—and if the real truth were known, And now, gentlemen, again good-bye. I it is probable the House of Inverary owes cannot tell you how deeply I regret that most of its glory to an Irish origin. (Ap- Lady Dufferin should not be present to share plause.) Nay, I will go a step further— the gratification I have experienced by your would even let the poor Englishman take an visit. (Applause.) Tell your friends at occasional turn at the helm (great laughter) home how deeply I have been moved by this —if for no better reason than to make him last and signal proof of their goodwill, that aware how much better we manage the busi- their kindness shall never be forgotten, and ness. (Renewed laughter.) But you have that as long as I live it will be one of the not come to that yet, and, though you have chief ambitions of my life to render them been a little spoiled bylhaving been given three faithful and effectual service." (Tremen- Irish Governor-Generals in succession, I am dous applause.) sure you will find that your new Viceroy's AT LAVAL UNIVERSITY. personal and acquired qualifications will [Delivered in reply to an address by the more than counterbalance his ethnological Very Rev. Rector, on the 11th of Septem- disadvantages. And now, gentlemen, I ber.] must bid you farewell. Never shall I forget "Rector, Your Grace, Ladies and Gen- the welcome you extended to me in every tlemen, —In the eloquent and graceful ad- towu and hamlet of Ontario when I first dress to which I have just listened, the came amongst you. It was in travelling Rector has condescended to imply that in through your beautiful Province I first learnt entering your learned confraternity the to appreciate and understand the nature and representative of the Queen confers more character of your destinies. (Applause.) honour than he receives, but both in my It was there I first learnt to believe in Can- own name, and in the name of our Gracious ada, and from that day to this my faith has Sovereign, I must demur to any such sug- never wavered. Nay. the further I ex- gestion. It is true the actual birth of this tended my travels through the other Pro- University is of recent date, but the ante- vinces, the more deeply my initial impres- cedents which ushered in, the conditions

sions were confirmed ; but it was amongst which surrounded that auspicious event, were you they were first engendered, and it is of a nature to stamp the University of La- wiflh your smiling happy hamlets my bright- val with a prestige and dignity such as are est reminiscences are intertwined. (Great possessed by few seminaries of learning upon

applause. ) And what transaction could bet- this continent; and when I look around upon ter illustrate the mighty changes your ener- this august assembly—when I remember — ) ;

1878 \RL OF DUFFEEIN. 117

what influences are at work to stimulate achievements. Let but the lamp of geuius be your exertions—how promising is the intel- lit within your precincts, and it will disclose lectual field it is your mission to cultivate to you undreamt of realms and kingdoms how rich you are in working power, I rejoice lying about your feet. (Applause.) Such in being entitled to acknowledge that there are the possibilities within your reach; and is no name, however illustrious, which would remember, in working out your auspicious not acquire fresh dignity by its enrolment destiny, you are expanding the moral power, upon your books. (Loud applause.) Such the mental activity, the intellectual grasp of being my sincere conviction, it is scarcely the community amongst whom you labor. necessary I should assure you that I am At this moment the French-Canadian race to deeply grateful for the honour you have done which you belong is engaged in a generous me, and that I shall always cherish with struggle with their English fellow-subjects grateful satisfaction the remembrance of this to see which shall contribute most to the ad- day's ceremonial. (Cheers.) But great as vancement of the moral, material, and politi- is my personal gratification, I cannot help cal welfare of their country. (Applause.) confessing that to me, as to you all, the There is not a student, a man of business or pleasure of the occasion is more than marred of science, a politician or an author of either by the sad reflection that the illustrious Pre- origin, who does not feel the inspiration of

late, hand in hand with whom I had hoped this noble rivalry (Cheers. ) Upon the suc- to enter your gates, has been prematurely cess of your exertions, upon the efficacy of and unexpectedly taken from amongst us. your discipline and training, upon the cha- It would be out of place for me to expatiate lacter of the mental and moral atmosphere upon the many qualities of the late Aposto- jou create within your walls, will in a great lic Delegate. My relations with him were measure depend the issues of the conflict. of course only those of personal friendship; (Applause. ) In that conflict I can heartily but apart from my appreciation of his de- wish you success without compromising my lightful qualities as a companion, I am enti- impartiality, for it is a struggle wherein the tled, both as a fellow-countryman and as the defeated reap laurels as untarnished—bene- head of the Government, to bear testimony fits as universal—as those which crown the to his claims upon our reverence and admi- winners, since it is round the brow of Canada ration as a Chistain Bishop, and a Dignitary the wreath of Victory, will be twined, and of the Catholic Church. And now, Rector, into the lap of Canada the prizes of the con- your Grace, ladies and gentlemen, it only- test poured. " (Loud aplause. remains for me again to express to you my [Delivered in reply to the Very Rev. deep and constant sympathy with you in the Reotot when he presented His Excellency labours in which are you engaged. When with the diploma.] . one reflects upon what human learning and " Monsieur le Recteur, Messeigneurs, scientific research has already achieved for Mesdames et Messieurs—Dans l'eloquente, the benefit of mankind, for the advance- et gracieuse adresse que je viene d'entendre, ment of civilization, for the mitigation of M. le Recteur a bien voulu exprimer l'id^e suffering, one has difficulty in finding suffi- qu'en devant membre de votre savante asso- ciently sober language in which to convey ciation, le repr^sentant de la Reine confere one's anticipations of the good such an in- plus d'honneur qu'il n'en recoit. Je dois, stitution as this can effectuate. (Applause.) tant en mon nom qu'an nom de notre Giaci- A University founded in the midst of an in- euse Souveraine, declarer qu'il m'est impos- telligent community is like an instrument sible d'accepter ce compliment, tout flatteur of irresistible power and all-embracing qu'il soit. II est vrai que l'origine de l'Uni- energy in the hands of a giant. There is versite com me telle, est de date recente nothing scarcely which it cannot accom- mais les antecedents qui out prepare" sa fon- plish. In its natal hour it becomes seized dation, les conditions dans lesquelles s'est —it enters at once into possession—of realise cet heureux ev&iement, ont ete de everything that the intellect of past genera- nature a imprimer a 1'Universite-Laval un tions has created or acquired—its jurisdic- tel prestige et une telle dignite que peu de tion immediately attaches to the whole do- sanctuaires de la science sur ce continent

main of human thought ; and spread abroad pourraient en reclamer de semblables ;—et through the vast unknown, stretch endless lorsque je porte mes regards sur cette auguste territories of unattained knowledge over assemble, lorsque je rappelle a ma memoire which it is as well entitled to stretch forth les influences qui contribuent a stimuler vos its sceptre as is any rival institution. (Great efforts, la fecondit^ etles esperances du champ

applause. ) Alexander sighed for fresh worlds intellectuel que vous avez pour mission de to conquer, but to the philosopher no such cultiver, les ressources puissantes de votre cause of sorrow need arrive, for the confines organisation, je jois reconnaitre, of space and time can alone rest his potential et j'eprouve un veritable plaisir a 118 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1878

proclamer que le nom le plus illustre decouvrira des regions et des royaumes in- ne pourrait manquer de recevoir un nouvel esperes, et qui cepeudant son c a vos pieds. eclat par son associatiou a cette Universite. Telles sont les conquetes qui s'offrent a Comme c'est la mon intime conviction, il votre ambition, et rappelez-vous qu'en pour- estu peine necessaire de vous assurer que je suivant votre destinee sous des auspices aussi vous suis profondement reconnaissant de favorables, vous etablissez l'influence morale, l'honneur que vous m'avez fait, it que je vous developpez l'activite et les facultes in- herirai tourj ours avec gratitude et satisfaction tellectuelles du peuple au milieu duquel vous le souvenir de la solennite de ce jour vivez. En ce moment, la race canadienne- Mais, quelque plaisir que je ressente francaise a laquelle vous appartenez livre un personnellement, je ne puis m'empecher combat genereux avec ses compatriotes d'avourer que, puir moir comme pour vous d'origine anglaise, arin de connaltre ce qui tous, une triste pensee vient troubler la joie pourra procurer plus surement l'avancement de cette fete. J'avais espere d'entrer dans du bien-etre moral, materiel et politique de l'enceinte de votre institution cote a c6te son pays. II n'y a pas un etudiant, pas un avec l'illustre prelat qu'une mort prematuree homme d'affaires ou de science, ec soudaine vient d'enlever d'au millieu de pas un homme politique ou un nous. II ne me conviendrait pas de m'etendre auteur, de l'une ou de l'autre origine, sur les nombreuses qualites du Delegue Apos- qui ne resseute l'inspiration de cette noble tolique. Mes relations avec lui n'etaient que rivalite. Du succes qui couronnera vos des relations d'amite personnelle; mais, outre efforts, des r^sultats de votre enseignement que j'ai pu apprecier ses precieuses qualites et de l'education que vous donnez, de la comme ami, mon double titre de coucitoyen nature de l'atmosphere intellectuelle et mo- et de chef du gouvernement canadien me fait rale que Ton respire dans vos murs, dependra un devoir de reconnaitre ses droits a notre en grande partie Tissue de ce combat. respect et a notre admiration comme Je puis done, dans cette lutte, vous eveque chretien et comme digni- souhaiter le succes de tout cceur, sans com- taire de l'Eglise, catholique. Et promettre mon impartiality, puisque c'est maintenant, M. le Eecteur, Messeig- une lutte ou les vaincus recueilleront des neurs, Mesdames et Messieurs, il ne me reste lauriers aussi purs, des avantages aussi uni- qu'a vous exprimer ma profonde et constante versels que ceux qui serout le prix des vain-

sympathie pour vous dans les travaux qui queurs ; car c'est sur le front dn Canada que font votre continuelle occupation. Quand brillera la couronne de la Victoire. c'est sur on considere ce que les connaissances hu- le sol du Canada quepleuvrontles recompen- maines, ce que les recherches de la science, ses du combat." ont deja fait pour l'avantage du genre hu- TO THE ST. JEAN BAPTISTE SOCIETY 07 main, pourl'avancement de la civilisation, *K>r*sr t—3 QUEBEC. pour le soulagement de la souffrance, on a de [Delivered in reply to an address in the

la peine a trouver des termes assez justes pour Music Hall, on the 12th of September. ] rendre ce que Ton peut augurer de bien d'une " Mr. President and Gentlemen,— institution comme celle-ci. Une universite It is needless for me to assure you with au milieu d'un peuple intelligent, c'est un in- what Dleasure I again find myself taking part strument dun pouvoir irresistible, d'une in those refined and artistic relations with energie sans bornes, entre les mains d'un which the French race delight to solace their geant. II n'y a, a vrai dire, rien qu'elle ne leisure, and surrounded by the loyal and puisse accomplir. Des les premiers instants patriotic members of the St. Jean Baptiste de son existence, elle entre aussitdt en pleine Society. It has been one of the happy possession de tout ce que l'intelligence des peculiarities of your nationality that you generations passees enliven the serious a pu creer ou acquerir ; have ever known how to sa juridiction embrasse le domaine entier de occupations of life by a graceful gaiety, and la pensee humaine, et s'etend memeau-dessus to introduce a brilliancy of colour amid the

de l'inconnu et de l'immensite ; elle aspire sombre shadows of our dull work-a-day a la possession des champs immenses des world. This happy temperament not only connaissances qui restent encore a acquerir, sheds its benign influence over your social et sur lesquelles elle a autant de droit d'3- existence, but it has invested everything tendre son sceptre qu'aucune autre institution you have touched—your architecture, your ri vale. Alexandre soupira t apres de nouveau x literature, your history—with a most attrac- mondes pour les conquerir; mais le philosophe tive individuality. Brilliancy, picturesque- inspiration n'aura jamais un tel sujet de tristesse ; les ness, dramatic force, a chivalrous limites de l'espace etdu temps peuvent seules —these are the characteristics which have unettre un terme au perfectionnement de ses thrown over the early annals of Canada a gla- connaissances. Que la lampe du genie brille mour of romance, which attaches to the his- dans le domaine continent, The confie a vos soins ; elle vous tory of no other portion of the — —

1878 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 119

genius of Washington Irving and of Haw- ment you have paid me in linking my name thorne have indeed endeavoured to do for in so flattering a manner as you have done New England and its neighbourhood what to-day with the memories of those illustrious Sir Walter Scott accomplished for his own men ?—or what more delightful assurance

land ; but though the magic of their style could I desire than that your affections will may for the instant delude the fancy, the hereafter preserve a place for me on that moment you close the page you awake to honourable register ? It is true my claims to the unreality of what they have depicted. such an honour are far weaker, far less Various influences in fact have induced our imperative than theirs. They led you to neighbours across the line to break complete- battle and to victory, they shared your pri- ly with their ante-revolutionary past, and vations, and on a thousand occasions —in to suffer oblivion to envelope the musty, seasons of plague and famine, of siege and arid, and ascetic records of their old colonial invasion — risked their lives on your days. But with you the case has been dif- behalf. All that I have ever ferent. Your past has refused to die, or to been able to do for you has been to give you efface itself. Its vitality was too exuberant, such proofs of my sympathy with your too rich with splendid achievements, too re- aspirations—of my respect for your charac- sonant, too brilliant, too replete with the ter and genius—of my faith in your future daring and gallantry of stately seigneurs as circumstances permitted. But, believe the creations of able statesmen—the mar- me, in quitting this country, and in counting tyrdoms of holy men and women, to be up the various respects in which my grati- smothered by the dust of ages, or overwhelm- tude is due to the Canadian people, the ed by the uproar of subsequent events. courtesy, the kindness, the hospitality I Though the advent of your English fellow- have received at the hands of my French- citizens, and the political changes which ac- speaking fellow-subjects will never be for-

companied their establishment amongst you, gotten ; and proud am I to think might have been expected to have built up a that, Sunder my auspices and at my partition wall between the past and present humble suggestion, the ramparts of of Canada, the solution of historical continu- Quebec are destined to rise in renovated ity has been really much less marked in this splendour, and to remain an enduring me- country than in the United States ; and far morial of the loving solicitude with which I from wishing to erect the change of regime have ever regarded this the most beautiful into an Era, the English Government and city upon the American continent, and its the English people, with an instinct as hon- kindly inhabitants." ourable to themselves as to you, have pre- TO THE ROYAL CALEDONIAN CURLING CLUB. ferred to adopt your past, on condition that [Delivered at Toronto, in the Adelaide- you will share their future ; and there is no street Rink, in reply to a farewell address English-Canadian of to-day who does not read on the 23rd of September by Mr. J. S. take as great a pride in the martial achieve- Russell. The address was accompanied by ments of the French captains of the 17th a silver tea kettle in the shape of a curling and 18th centuries, in the heroic and stone, the entire article being produced in adventurous explorations of the Jesuit Canada. ] Fathers, in the enterprise which established " Mr. President, Ladies and Gentle- Quebec and Montreal, in the semi-feudal men, —I find it difficult to express my sense splendours of your early Viceroys, as any of the honour you have done me, not only Frenchman amongst you all. Nay, in the in preparing for me so noble a reception, but lovely poem of 'Evangeline,' in the thrillling in accompanying it by circumstances so tales of Fenimore Cooper, in the picturesque, grateful to my feelings. When I accepted dramatic and clever pages of Parkman, we your invitation, I was unaware of the sur- see that it is to Canada the poet, the novelist prise which was in store for me, and now, and the historian even of the United States when the whole extent of your goodness has are obliged to come for the subject matter of been revealed, I find difficulty in returning their tales, and an interesting theme. you adequate thanks. I am deeply sensible Speaking for myself, I can truly say that Mr. President, of the kind appreciation you whenever I pace the frowning platform of have extended to me as the representativ e of your Citadel, or make the circuit of your our Queen, and as the head of the Govern-

ramparts, or wander through your gabled ment of this country, because, although , in streets, I instinctively regard myself as their moments of leisure, there are no per- much the direct successor of those brave and sons who better know how to enjoy them- courtly Viceroys who presided over your selves than the curlers of Canada, I am well early destiny, as 1 am the successor of Lord aware that they reckon among their num bers Lisgar, Lord Monck or Lord Elgin. How men of the highest intelligence and great then can I fail to appreciate the compli- political influence, to whose experience and I

120 :the speeches of the 1878 wisdom Canada is indebted fur the pros- use this stone at that curling match which I perous direction of her affairs. (Applause.) had the honour of playing with some of my But I am particularly touched by the kind friends present, I can assure them the result way in which you have addressed me as a would have been very different from what it brother curler. In looking back upon the was." Laughter and applause.) six years and a half I have spent in this coun- AT THE ONTARIO PROVINCIAL EXHIBITION. try, which include, I may say, some of the [Delivered at the opening of the new Pro- happiest hours of my life (applause), there vincial Buildings, in reply to an address by are few amongst them which I shall regard the Ontario Agricultural and Arts Associa- with more satisfaction than those which I tion,read by Mr. Thomas Stock, on the 24th have passed upon the ice with my brother of September.] curlers. Whether as victor or as victim " Mr. President, Ladies and Gentle- (laughter) in those friendly contests, my men, —In endeavouring to return you my satisfaction has been untarnished by any dis- best thanks for the noble reception you are agreeable or unpleasant reminiscence, for giving me, for the series of Arabian Nights wherever I have gone-y-upon every rink— entertainments through which from hour to have found myself greeted with the greatest hour and day to day I have been hurried by cordiality, and sometimes overwhelmed with your hospitable citizens, I can truly say I an embarrassing hospitality. (Applause.) have never felt less equal to such a task. In conclusion, allow m<-. especially to express During the past six years and a half, in- my deep thanks for this beautiful present deed, I have been often required at various which you have given me. I really cannot times and places to say what are called ' a tell you how much I appreciate the delicate few words' to different classes of my fellow- ingenuity and sense of artistic beauty which countrymen in the Dominion. But on these devised this lovely ornament. That orna- occasions there was always some current ment will be preserved not only during my to engage our attention, and to which it was life,but I trust for many generations amongst desirable I should address myself. Now, those who come after me, as a memorial of however, the case is very different. It is the kindness which their ancestor received in true we have a special business before us. the Dominion of Canada at the hands of its I am nominally here to open this Exhibition, curlers. (Cheers.) And I am pleased to and, perhaps, under ordinary circumstances think that whenever it makes its appearance it would be sufficient for me to dilate upon on the breakfast table, Lady Dufferin will be the splendour of these buildings, the variety there to share with me the reminiscences it and the richness of their contents, the proofs calls to mind, and to talk over all the plea- they display not merely of the material sant hours we have passed in your company. wealth of Canada, but of the energy, in- (Applause.) There is only one thought genuity, and industry of our mechanics, ar- which strikes me in connection with this tizans and agriculturists; but my imagina- present, which I might hesitate to express, tion refust be confined within even these and that is that it would seem as though the spacious halls. (Applause.) No I the curlers of Canada were determined to keep contributions they enclose only serve to con- my wife and myself in hot water the re- jure up before me in all their beauty the mainder of our lives." (Loud laughter and radiant expanses of those seven fair Pro- (applause.) vinces I have traversed from end to end (hear, [Delivered on the same occasion, in ac- hear, and applause); and it is not the depart- knowledgment of the presentation by Mayor ments of a mere Provincial Show which lie Morrison of a curling stone in miniature.] mapped out beneath my feet, but the terri- "Ladies and Gentlemen, — It is tories of our great Dominion, whose wealth very unfair to hit a man when he and capabilities these courts exhibit. Nor is is down. I have been already com- it in the presence of a detached crowd of pletely prostrated by the kindness casual sight-seers that I seem to stand, but of the friends on my left, and now Mr. face to face with that entire population with Mayor, with a want of generosity I should whose destinies I have been so long associat- not have expected in him, suddenly attacks ed, to whom I owe so much, and who are "me with this beautiful and fatal instrument. building up a British polity upon this side I can only say that I accept it with the of the Atlantic which is destined, I trust, greatest gratitude, and that I am delighted to exemplify more successfully than any to have a personal recollection of so distin- other what happiness, what freedom, what guished a citizen of the flourishing city of strength, what peace can be secured to man Toronto as Mr. Morrison, more especially as by patiently, wisely, soberly expanding and it will remind me of the Mayor under whose developing those great principles of Consti- auspices I shall have experienced so much tutional and Parliamentary Government gratification. Had I only been permitted to which centuries ago were born in England )

187S gEARL OF DUFFERIN. 121

{applause), which our ancestors shed their but the happiness of a people does not so blood to defend, which our forefathers trans- much depend upon the accumulation of planted to this country, and which our wealth as upon its equable distribution. fathers have left us as the most precious in- (Hear, hear.) In many of the wealthiest heritance they could bestow. (Tremendous kingdoms of Europe thousands can scarcely

applause. ) Impressed, then, by such a con- obtain their daily bread ; and though sciousness, knowing that to-day for the last Canada is by no means at present a nation time I am speaking to the people of Canada, of millionaires, there is not amongst us what am I to say ? There are many things I an agricultural homestead between the At- would desire to say at such a moment, but I lantic and the Pacific where content dtead to tread on forbidden ground. and a rude plenty do not reign (applause),

(Laughter. ) As you are well aware, in all and in a thousand localities the earth is those matters which are of real and vital bursting with the mineral wealth which moment to you, I am only entitled to repeat only requires improved transportation to in public such words of wisdom as my Ot- develop. (Renewed applause.) Nor indeed tawa Egerias may put into my mouth. are you so numerous as your neighbours,

(Great laughter. ) In my own behalf it is but this is an inferiority which time wdll only competent for me to expatiate in these soon correct. Providence has spread out vaporous fields of extra- political disquisition for you the fertile prairies of the North-West which may happen to be floating around the and your daughters must do the rest. solid political life of the people. Yet, per- (Loud laughter and applause.) But if these haps, a Viceroy in extremis might claim ex- admissions may be made on the one side, ceptional indulgence. (Laughter.) To all what countervailing superiority may not be moribund personages, as to Jacob when he quoted on the other ? In the first place you gathered the Fathers of Israel round his possess the best form^of government, with bedside, the privilege of monition and bene- which any historical nation has ever been diction has been granted. (Applause and blessed. (Cheers.) The excellency of the laughter.) Happily my closing sentences British Constitution, with the self-expand- need not be of such ambiguous import as ing energies it embodies, is an ancient story those addressed by the Patriarch to Judah which I need not insist on, but as and his brethren. (Great laughter.) Though there are always external forces a country in the throes of a general election which disturb the working of the most per- might have some sympathy with the attitude fect mechaniism, so in an old country like of Issachar (loud laughter), as 1 am not a England, many influences exist to trouble defeated Prime Minister, I have no tempta- the harmonious operations of the political

tion to apply to you the burden of Reuben. machine ; but here, our Constitution has been

(Renewed laughter. ) What, then, is to be set agoing almost in vacuo—entirely disen- my valediction—my parting counsel to the cumbered of those entanglements which citizens of the Dominion before I turn my traditional prejudices and social compli- face to the wall ? A very few words will cations have given birth to at home. convey them. Love your country, believe My nexii advice to you, then, would be to in her, honour her, work for her, live for her, guard and cherish the characteristics of your die for her. Never has any people been en- Constitution with a sleepless vigilance. dowed with a nobler birthright, or blessed And do not consider that this is a superflu- with prospects of a fairer future. Whatever ous warning. I do not, of course, refer to gift God has given to man is to be found any of those principles which either regulate within the borders of your ample territories; the relation of the Mother Country to the and in return the only obligation laid upon Colony, or of the Crown to the Parliament. you is 'to go forth and multiply, and re- All questions which were at one time in

plenish the earth. ' (Applause and laughter. controversy in either of these respects have It is true, the zone within which your lines been long since happily settled to the satis- are cast is characterized by ruder features faction of everybody concerned. (Applause.) Jhan those displayed in lower latitudes and During the whole time that I have been within more sunward-stretching lands; but Governor-General of Canada not a single the North has ever been the home of liberty, difficulty has ever arisen between the Co- industry and valour (cheers), and great di- lonial Office and the Government. (Hear, versities of climate and of geographical and hear.) Indeed it would be impossible to physical conditions are wont to breed anta- overstate the extraordinary smoothness and gonistic material interests and disruptive harmony with which this portion of the tendencies, which the fortunate uniformity machinery has worked, so far as my experi- of your own climate and position can never ence has gone. (Applause.) The indepen- engender. (Applause.) It is also true you dence of the Canadian Parliament and the are not so rich as many other communities, Canadian Administration in all matters 122 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1878

affecting their domestic jurisdiction have not is nothing about which a nation should be only received a generous recognition, but so particular as to secure in such a service have been stimulated and expanded to the independence, zeal, patriotism and integrity. fullest possible extent by the authorities at But in order that this should be the case, it home, as the recent establishment of a Su- is necessary that the civil servants should be preme Court of Justice on Canadian soil given a status regulated by their acquire- impressively testifies. (Applause.) Nor has ments, their personal qualifications, their anything occurred to trouble the relations of capacity for rendering the country efficient the Viceroy as representing the Reyal pow- service, and that neither their original ap- er aud his Parliament. The respective pointment nor their subsequent advancement limits of privilege and prerogative have been should in any way depend upon their politi- finally determined, and there is no tempta- cal connections and opinions. (Applause.) tion, either upon the one side or the other, If you take my advice you will never allow

to overstep them . (Cheers. ) But there are your Civil Service to be degraded into an one or two other principles incident to the instrument to'subserve the ends and inte- British Constitution which, though fully rests of any political party. (Cheers.) The recognized and established, might, perhaps, success of a political party ought to depend be oversidden in time of political excitement, upon its public policy, and the ability of its unless public opinion exerted itself to main- chiefs, and not upon the advantage likely to tain them absolutely intact. I allude to accrue to its individual adherents. In fact, the independence of the judges and the non- the more the area of personal profit conse- political and permanent character of the quent upon a change of Government is limit- Civil Service. With regard to the inde- ed, the better for the country at large. (Hear,,

pendence of the judges I will say nothing. hear. ) On the other hand, the independence Notwithstanding what ha3 been done else- thus conceded to the members of the Civil where, I do not think that the Canadian Service imposes upon them a special obliga- people will ever be tempted to allow the tion, namely, that they should serve their judges of the land to be constituted by popu- successive chiefs—no matter to which side lar election. (Hear, and applause.) Still, they may belong—with a scrupulously im- on this continent there will always be pre- partial zeal and loyalty. (Hear, hear.} sent in the air, as it were, a certain ten- There is no offence which should be visited dency in that direction, and it is against this with swifter or more condign punishment I would warn you. And now than any failure in this respect. A civil that I am upon this topic, there servant who alio ws his political sympathies is one further observation I am to damp his ardour, devotion, zealjand loyalty tempted to make in regard to the position of to his departmental chiefs is a disgrace to the judges. I should hope that, as time goes his profession. (Hear, hear.) Happily on, as the importance and extent of their both the great political parties in this coun- work increases, and as the wealth of the try have given in their adherence to this country expands, it may be found expedient principle. Both are convinced of the whole- to attach somewhat higher salaries to those someness of the doctrine to which I have who administer the laws. Pure and right- referred, and I have no doubt that the eous justice is the very foundation of hu- anxiety manifested by our friends across the

' man happiness ; but remember it is as true line to purge their own^Civil Service of its of justice as of anything else—you cannot political complexion will confirm every think- have a hrst-rate article without paying for ing Canadian in the conviction I have it. (Cheers and laughter.) In order to sought to impress upon ycu. (Applause.) secure an able Bar you must provide ade- Again, therefore, I say to you, guard this quate prizes for those that are called to it. and every other characteristic of your Con- If this is done, the intellectual energy of the stitution with an unfailing vigilance, for, country will be attracted to the legal profes- though you search all the world over, it is. sion, and you will have what is the greatest not likely you will ever get a better one. ornament any country can possess—an effi- (Cheers.) It is true no one can live in the cient and learned judiciary. (Cheers.) But, proximity of our great neighbours without after all, the chief danger against which you conceiving the greatest admiration for the will have to guard is that which concerns wisdom which framed the political institu- the Civil Service of the country. Now, th6 tions uuder which they have so wonderfully Service Civil of the country, though not prospered, but I am not at all sure that the the animating spirit, is the living mechanism success of the original experiment is not as through which the body politic moves and much due to the fortitude, the good sense, breathes and has its being. Upon it de- and the moderation of the subsequent pends the rapid and economical conduct of generations that have carried it into every wisdom of branch of your affairs ; and there effect, as to the foresight and. —)

1878 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 12S

there is and in the nation its authors : and certain am I that woman —upon the duty of not a thinking American who,however proud a supreme devotion to the interests of their he may be of his country, does not occasion- own Canada. (Cheers.) But you are well ally cast an envious sheep's eye across the aware that as an Imperial officer I have border at our more fortunate condition. never shown the slightest jealousy or breath- (Laughter and applause.) The truth is, that ed a word in discouragement of such honour- been able for almost every modern Constitution has sentiments ; I am convinced that, so the child of violence, and remains indelibly far from being antagonistic to Imperial in- impressed with the scars of the struggle terests, it is amongst those who are prepared which ushered in its birth. (Applause.) A to make the greatest sacrifices for their written Constitution is of necessity an arti- native land that we shall always find the ficial invention —a contrivance—a formula most loyal subjects of the Queen. (Great as inelastic as the parchment on which it is cheering.) Ihe only thing that, perhaps, I written—instead of being a living, primeval, would be disposed to deprecate would be heaven-engendered growth ; but the founda- the over-passionate advocacy of any specu- tions of the polity under which you live lative programme that may lie outside of the are of secular antiquity (loud applause) ; no orbit of practical statesmanship. (Hear,, revolutionary convulsion has severed the hear. ) As eveiy human society is in a state continuity of your history, or disinherited of continuous development, so occasional you of your past—your annals are not com- readjustment of its mechanism becomes ne- prised within the lifetime of a centenarian, cessary ; but I think you may take it for but reach back through a thousand years of granted that, though they may talk much matchless achievement in every field of ex- about it, the experienced men who superin- ertion open to mankind. (Loud cheering. tend your affairs are perpetually on the Nor do even the confines of two oceans watch for any serious symptoms of strain or share friction in the wheels of suffice to hedge you in ; you an Em- the body politic,, pire whose flag floats, whose jurisdiction as- and as soon as these disclose themselves serts itself in every quarter of the globe there is no doubt they will find expedients (applause)—whose ships whiten every sea with which to meet the emergency. It is in whose language is destined to spread further this way, by this practical procedure, and than any European tongue (tremendous not by theoretical excursions into dreamland, cheering)-whose institutions every nation as- that the British polity has been so success- piring to freedom is endeavouring to imitate, fully elaborated. (Applause.) So long as a and whose vast and widespread colonies are man sleeps well, has a good ' appetite, and vieing with each other in their affectionate feels generally jovial, he may rest assured love for the Mother Country (cheers),in their he needs no doctoring. (Laughter.) But efforts to add lustre to the English name, in if he takes to perpetually feeling his pulse, their longing to see cemented still more looking at his tongue, and watching his closely the bonds of that sacred and majes- digestion, he will invariabty superinduce all tic union within which they have been born. kinds of imaginary pains and aches, and

(Applause. ) Gentlemen, believe me, one is perhaps a real illness. (Applause and laugh- not an Englishman for nothing (great ap- ter. ) Well, so far as I have observed, you plause) ; and although, perhaps, I should be all appear at present in the best of health prepared to go beyond many of my hearers, and spirits, and I do not know that you not merely in justifying but in extolling will much better your condition by allowing the conduct of those men of the revolution- your imagination to speculate as to whether ary period who tore themselves—though I the exuberant vitality you are accumulating believe with bleeding hearts—from their in your system, under your present satisfac- Mother's side rather than submit to her tory regimen, will or will not eventually tyranny, I confess I should have difficulty necessitate some hundred years hence an in- in finding words to express my want of sym- conceivable process of amputation. (Laughter

pathy for those, should any such ever come and applause. ) But what is so satisfactory into existence, who—unless under the stress in this case is, that those sentiments of of equal provocation—should be tempted to loyalty and affection for the Mother Country, abjure so glorious a birthright in pursuit of which are so dominant in Canada, coincide any Utopian chimera. (Applause.) None and run in parallel lines with what the coldest such, however, are here. (Cheers.) Of common sense and the most calculating course I am well aware that many of the policy would recommend. (Great applause.) most earnest- minded men amongst us have They are, in fact, but the wreaths of roses insisted of late years with laudable enthusi- which entwine and overlie the strong cords asm—and, in doing so, though perhaps un- of mutual profit and advantage by which the consciously to themselves, they have only two countries ; are bound to one another. £ given utterances to the feelings of every man ( Applause. ) I therefore say, cherish as one- j — ) —

124 THE SPEECHES OF THE 1878 of the noblest traditions transmitted by your try, to be recognized still more universally forefathers that feeling of loyalty towards as one of the most loyal, most prosperous, Great Britain, the Empire, and its Sovereign, and most powerful of those great colonial by which you are animated, for it is in that governments which unite to form the Empire direction, and not in any other one, tiiat of Great Britain. (Great cheering.) May your true course lies. (Great applause.) God Almighty bless you and keep you, and And now, in conclusion, I have but one pour out upon your glorious country the uni- ' more word to say. However earnestly I versal blessings that lie at His right hand. may have besought you to be faithful to (Tremendous cheering, renewed again and your native land, and to estimate at its again. proper value your birthright as Englishmen, TO THE IRISH PROTESTANT BENEVOLENT it is almost with equal persistence that I SOCIETY. would exhort you to cultivate cordial rela- [Delivered on the 25th of September, in re- tions with the great American people. A ply to an address read by Capt. W. F. Mc- nobler nation—a people more generous or Master, in the Queen's Hotel, Toronto.] more hospitable—does not exist. (Loud "Gentlemen, —Few things could have applause.) To have learnt to understand given me greater pleasure than to receive and appreciate them I esteem as not the such an address as that which you have pre- least of the many advantages I have gained sented to me. I recollect the friendly recep- by coming to Canada. (Applause.) Of my tion you gave me on my first arrival, and I own knowlenge I can say that they are ani- rejoice at this opportunity of bidding you mated by the kindliest feelings towards the farewell. I am well aware of the useful na- Dominion, and I cannot doubt but that the ture of the task you have set yourselves, and two countries are destined to be united in of the broad and liberal spirit in which you the bands of an unbroken friendship. (Loud execute it, and it is, therefore, to you, and applause. ) Nor can I conceive a more in- through you to the rest of our Irish fellow- teresting or delightful task in store for the countrymen in Canada, that I feel irresistibly philosop'hical historian than to record the compelled to convey one last and parting en- amicable rivalry of such powerful and cog- treaty. No one can have watched the recent nate communities in the path of progress, course of events without haviDg observed, the one a republic indeed, but where the almost with feelings of terror, the unac- authoritative pre-eminence assigned to the countable exacerbation and recrudescence of elect of the people, and the comparative those party feuds and religious animosities freedom of the Executive from Parliamentary from which for many a long day we have control, introduces a feature akin to personal been comparatively free. Now, gentlemen, government ; the other a monarchy, but to this is a most serious matter (hear, hear) ; its which the hereditary principle communicates import cannot be exaggerated ; and I would such an element of stability as to render beseech you and every Canadian in the land possible the application of what is really the who exercises any influence amid the circle most popular and democratic political sys- of his acquaintance—nay, every Canadian tem to be found upon this continent (loud woman, whether mother, wife, sister, or cheers), while both combine, each in their daughter, to strain every nerve, to exert respective spheres, to advance the happiness every faculty they possess,to stifle and eradi- of mankind,and to open up anew and fresher cate this hateful and abominable root of bit- chapter of human history. (Applause.) terness from amongst us. (Hear, hear.) And now, gentlemen, I must hurry Gentlemen, I have had a terrible experience to a conclusion. I have only to iu these matters. I have seen one of the thank you for the patience with greatest and most prosperous towns of Ire- which you have listened to me. My land—the City of Belfast—helplessly given race amongst you is run. To-day I am but over for an entire week into the hands of two hastily finishing off the concluding paragraph contending religious factions. I have gone in the record of my official career. That re- into the hospital and beheld the dead bodies 1 con. , I am happy to think, is destined to be- of young men in the prime of life lying stark come the preface to a more brilliant chapter and cold upon the hospital floor—thedelicate in your history. (Cheers. ) In a few weeks forms of innocent women writhing in agony one of the most promising of the younger upon the hospital beds—and every one of generation of English statesmen will reacn these struck down by an unknown bullet your whores, accompanied by a daughter of by those with whom they had no personal your Queen. (Tremendous applause. ) Under quarrel—towards whom they felt no animo- the auspices of these distinguished person- sity, and from whom, had they encountered ages you are destined to ascend yet higher in them in the intercourse of ordinary life, they the hierarchy of the nations, to be drawn would have probably received every mark of still closer to the heart of the Mother Coun- kindness and goodwill. (Hear, hear. ) But — I)

1878 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 125 where these tragedies occurred—senseless TO THE COMMERCIAL TRAVELLERS OF CANADA. and wicked as were the occasions which pro- [Delivered in the Queen's Hotel on the duced them—there had long existed between same day, in reply to an address read by the contending parties, traditions of animo- Mr. Riley, on behalf of Mr. Paterson, the of ancient sity and ill-will and the memory President. ] can be more Cain like, " grievances ; but what Mr. President and Gentlemen,— more insane, than to import into this country assure you I experience very great pleasure —unsullied as it is by any evil record of civil in receiving an address from such a body as bright strife—a stainless paradise, fresh and this. In the first place, I am well aware that from the hands of its Maker,—where all have the Commercial Travellers constitute a com- been freely admitted upon equal terms munity as distinguished for its integrity, for the bloodthirsty strife and brutal quarrels of its intelligence, for its general aptitude for the old world ? Divided as you are into va- advancing the prosperity of Canada, as any rious powerful religious communities, none in the country. In the next place, I cannot of whom are entitled to claim either pre- help remembering that one of the wisest and eminence or ascendancy over the other, but kindliest statesmen whose eloquence and each of which reckons amongst its adherents achievements have ever adorned the pages of enormous masses of the population, what English history, had the honour of once being hopes can you have except in mutual forbear- enrolled amongst your number. I allude to ance and a generous liberality of sentiment ? Richard Cobden. (Applause.) And I am Why, your very existence depends upon also glad to think that another member of the disappearance of these ancient feuds. your profession, Mr. George Moore, has also Be wise, therefore, in time, I say, while it justly attracted by his honourable and dis- is still' time, for it is the property of these tinguished career the admiration and sym- hateful quarrels to feed on their own excesses; pathy of his fellow-countrymen. But there if once engendered they widen their bloody is a still closer tie which attracts me towards circuit from year to year, till they engulf the you, because, after all, what am I myself bat entire community in internecine strife. Un- a commercial traveller ? (Laughter and happily, it is not by legislation or statutory applause. ) I am a commercial traveller who restrictions or even by the interference cf has travelled more and further than any of the armed Executive, that the evil can be you. • (Renewed laughter. ) I have vaunted effectually and radically remedied. Such my wares with as much earnestness and alternatives, even when successful at the sincere belief in their excellence as any gen- time—I am not alluding to anything that tleman present. (Loud laughter.) I have has taken place in Canada, but to my Irish endeavoured to extend our connections, and experiences—are apt to leave a sense of in- to push the business of our House (great justice and of a partial administration of laughter), with energy and integrity (laughter the law rankling in the minds of one or and applause), and, as you are good enough other of the parties ; but surely when rein- to assure me, to the satisfaction of my em- forced by such obvious considerations of self- ployers (great applause)—and amongst those preservation as those I have indicated, the who have addressed me there are none in a public opinion of the community at large better position than yourselves to give me an ought to be sufficient to repress the evil. assurance on such a point, as none are in the Believe me, if you desire to avert an im- habit of mixing more intimately with all pending calamity, it is the duty of every classes of the community. " (Loud applause. human being amongst you—Protestant and TO THE CITIZENS OF TORONTO. Catholic, Orangeman and Union man—to [Delivered in the Queen's Park, in reply to consider with regard to all these matters an address read by Mr. Roddy, the City what is the real duty they owe to God, their Clerk, on the 25th of September.] country, and each other. (Applause.) And " Mr. Mayor and Aldermen of thb now, gentlemen, I have done. I trust City of Toronto, —I am afraid that it is that nothing I have said has wounded the almost hopeless for me to make myself susceptibilities of any of those who have heard by the large assemblage of the citizens listened to me. God knows I have had but of Toronto who have done me the honour of one thought in addressing these observations meeting me here to-night. But I trust that to you, and that is to make the best use of there will be some amongst them sufficiently this exceptional occasion, and to take the near to be able to gather from the few ob- utmost advantage of the good will with servations I am about to make, how deeply which 1 know you regard me, in order to sensible I am of the honour which you, Mr. effect an object upon which your own Mayor, and your colleagues, have done me happiness and the happiness of future in presenting me with so nattering an ad- generation so greatly depend." dress, and which they have conferred upon me in assembling in such numbers to wel- ) ) "

126 THE SPEECHES OE THE 1878 come me. I remember perfectly when 1 Hrst casions to make use of almost the same arrived in your city, when I was a stranger ormula of expression,I trust you will believe to you all, when Canada was altogether a that, however stereotyped those expressions terra incognita to us, that you were good of gratitude may be, the sentiment which enough to illuminate your houses, to as- they repeat will be fresher and fresher from semble in your streets, and to make me feel the bottom of my heart on every succeeding once for all that I had come amongst friends, occasion upon which I receive fresh proofs of and that I had found a home. (Cheers. the confidence and esteem of the people. After six years' experience I can only say (Applause.) I will not, after what I have that your friendship has never failed me;aud already said in your presence, in reply to now that I am about to leave you I almost the Mayor, do more than again assure you feel as though I were being banished from that 1 am deeply sensible of your kindness my native land. (Applause.) I regret ex- and goodness, and that in return 1 beg to tremely that during the period of my ad- offer you my best and warmest thanks. ministration I have not been able to render (Cheers. you greater services. At all events, the will TO THE CITIZENS OF HAMILTON. has not been wanting, and, though I have [Delivered on the same occasion, in reply very little to boast of, I may, at all events, to an address read by Mayor Kilvert.] congratulate myself on the recollection that "Mr. Mayor—In reply to an address which no cloud has ever come between you and yon have been good enough to present to and said me, I me ; that I have done nothing must ask you to be the bearer to your nothing which has in any degree shaken fellow- citizens in Hamilton of my must your love for the Mother Country, your grateful thanks. It is very difficult, wheu I loyalty to your Queen, or your devotion to recur to the various progresses I have made your beloved Canada. (Loud cheers.) through Ontario, to distinguish between the Never have I found myself iu the midst of a receptions I have met with at the several population animated by a nobler spirit of towns which ornament that great Province. myself in this patriotism ; never have I found But I can say, that I distinctly recollect the midst of a population more industrious, that at Hamilton I received as kind and more law-abiding, more sensible of their loyal a reception as at any other place in privileges as the subjects of a great consti- Her Majesty's Dominion. I regret extremely tutional ruler, or more deternimed to ad- that I have not been able to repair myself vance the renown and glories of the British in person to your town, in order that I name. (Prolonged cheering.) Mr. Mayor, might see your fellow-citizens face to face, Aldermen, ladies and gentlemen, I feel that and thank them for the kind opinions they it would be to trespass unduly upon your have expressed of me in their address. I attention if I were to trouble you with any therefore ask you to be my ambassador, and lengthened observations upon the present to express to them the pleasure I feel on this occasion. When all is said and done, I can occasion. " ( Applause, j only repeat that I am most grateful to you TO THE ONTARIO SOCIETY OF ARTISTS. all, that as long as I live I shall retain the [Delivered in reply to the toast of his tenderest recollection of your country, and health, proposed at a luncheon on the 26th of that the rest of my life shall be devoted, September by Mr. W. H. Howland.] whenever the opportunity of doing so shall " Mr. Howland and Gentlemen, —In arrive, to furthering the interests of Canada, returning you my best thanks for the flatter- to championing the cause of the Dominion, ing manner in which you have drunk my and to showing by my acts and words how health, permit me to assure you that 1 should faithful is my'recDllection of the love, affec- have felt my leave-takings in this city to tion and kindness I have received at your have been most incomplete unless I had had hands." (Loud and long-continued cheer- j an opportunity of giving my artist friends in J Ontario a parting shake of the hand. (Ap-

TO THE YORK COUNTY COUNCIL. plause. ) I shall never forget the kindness [Delivered on the same occasion, in reply and courtesy with which they have always to an address presented by Mr. N. Clarke welcomed me here, or the pleasure I have Wallace, M.P., Warden.] derived from inspecting their Annual Exhi- "Mr. Warden and Gentlemen, —As this bition. As this is altogether a domestic is the sixth speech 1 shall have had the plea- festival, I shall not intrude upon its felicity sure of making to-day, I dare say you can well by a speech. Moreover, I have so lately understand that I shall rind some difficulty had an opportunity of saying to you what-

j in finding words adequately to thank you for ever I thought I could say to any purpose the kind, loyal and flattering address with with reference to Art, that the want of an J But, though appropriate theme would of itself close which you have honoured me. | my I am forced on each of these agreeable oc- mouth. Still there is one thing I would 1878 EARL OF DUFFERIN. 12 wish to do, and that is to congratulate you sophisticated by the puny art of the land- and every artist in Canada upon the advent scape gardener, but carefully preserved in the to your shores of one of the most intelligent picturesque and unvulgarized condition in and appreciative patrons of Art such a which it was originally laid out by the hand Society as this could possibly desire. (Loud of Nature. (Loud applause. ) Nothing could applause.) Gentlemen, in Her Royal High- have been more gratifying or gracious than ness the Princess Louise you will not only the response which His Excellency the Gov- iind a sister brush (laughter), but one who, ernor of New York was good enough to make both by her native genius and the sound and to my representations, and he encouraged me thorough practical education she has re- to hope that, should a fitting opportunity ceived, is qualified to be your friend, protec- present itself, he and his Government might tor and guiding star. (Applause.) That be induced, if not to take the initiative in she will be ready and willing to do so I have the matter, at all events to co-operate no doubt, for broad and generous as are all heartily with our own in carrying out such a her sympathies, in no direction do they flow plan as I have sketched. (Applause. ) No- out in a richer or more spontaneous strain where in the world are all the arrangements than towards her artist friends, and I shall connected with pleasure grounds better be very much mistaken if her advent in Can- understood than upon this continent. You ada does not mark an^era in the Art history possess quite a specialty in that respejt, and

of this continent. (Applause. ) And now, if on either side the river the areas adapted gtntlemen, before I sit down there is another for such a purpose were put under the charge topic to which I would for a moment refer. of proper guardians, and the present guides I am about to confide to you a mission organized into an efficient and disciplined which, though not directly in your line, is staff, it would be a source of increased grati- sufficiently connected with your pursuits to fication to thousands and thousands of per- justify me in demanding your assistance. In sons. (Applause.) Now, of course we all your neighbourhood there exists, as you are know that what is everybody's business is aware, one of the most wondrous, beautiful, nobody's business, and notwithstanding the and stupendous scenes which the forces of all-embracing energy of my honourable and Nature have ever constructed. Indeed, so learned friend upon my right, it is not the majestic is the subject, that though many kind of thing which probably would have skilful hands have endeavoured to transfer it come to the notice of his Government unless to canvas, few have succeeded in adequately the matter was previously agitated by pome depicting its awe-inspiriug characteristics. powerful interest. It is for this reason that I allude to the Falls of Niagara. But I am I take the opportunity of addressing an audi- further sure everyone will agree with me in ence who I am certain will sympathize with thinking that the pleasure he may have de- such a project on this subject, and of urging rived from his pilgrimage to so famous a upon them the advisability of bringing their spot, whether as an artist or simple tourist, influence to bear in the direction I have sug- has been miserably marred and defeated gested. (Loud applause.) Mr. President by the inconvenience and annoyance he has and gentlemen, I have again to thank you experienced at the hands of the various most warmly for the kind reception you have squatting interests that have taken posses- given me, and I beg to conclude by proposing sion of every point of vantage at the Falls to the health of your President, with a hearty tax the pocket and irritate the nerves of wish for your future prosperity." (Ap- visitors, and by whom just at the moment plause. — ) when he is about to give up his whole being TO THE CLERGY OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC to the contemplation of the scene before him, ECCLESIASTICAL PROVINCE OF ONTARIO. as he is about to feel the inspiration of the [Delivered on the 26th of September, in natural beauties around him, his imagination reply to an address from the Clergy of the

and his poetic faculties are suddenly shocked Roman Catholic Ecclesiastical Province. ] and disorganized with a demand for ten " Your Grace and My Lords, —I can •cents. (Loud laughter.) Some few weeks assure you it is with feelings of the very ago I had the good fortune to meet§His Ex- deepest satisfaction that I acknowledge the cellency the Governor of the State of New address with which you have honoured me. York, and I then suggested to him an idea I am well aware that throughout Canada which has been long present to my mind, there does no^ exist a more patriotic body, that the Governments of New York and of one more devoted to the interests of the Ontario or Canada should combine to acquire country or more attached to the Empire of whatever rights may have been established Great Britain, than that great ecclesiastical against the public, and to form around the community over which you preside as its

Falls a small public international park (hear, spiritual pastors ; and I rejoice to think hear)—not indeed decorated or in aDy way that, under your advice and guidance, it I

128 THE SPEECHES OF THE EARL OF DUFFERIN. 1878 should be so ready, as on all occasions I have so, the principles and functions of the Society found it, to acknowledge the justice and are of the most benificent and liberal nature. benignity of Her Majesty's rule in Canada. You comprise within your ranks both That personages in your exalted position Catholics and Protestants, united by the should address me personally in such flatter- bonds of the closest amity and a community ing terms is very gratifying to my feelings, of well doing. No sectarian prejudices or and I shall ever retain the most grateful passions are allowed to stand in the way of recollection of the courtesy I have always your efforts to benefit those who claim your received at the hands of the Catholic hierar- assistance, the very basis of your existence chy of Canada. I shall have great pleasure being the noblest charity. I thank you in conveying to Her Majesty the sentiments heartily for the kind expressions you have of loyalty to her Throne and affection for her used in regard to myself. It is indeed no Person you have requested me to repeat in mean reward to leave those amongst whom your behalf. In leaving Canada I carry I have lived so long under such gratifying away with me an increased appreciation of circumstances, and believe me the assurance what can be done to superinduce a sentiment of your confidence and esteem contributes in of goodwill and content amongst a popula- no slight degree to mitigate the sorrow I tion composed of different religious convic- naturally experience in bidding farewell to so tions by the administration of equal laws and many kind and indulgent friends. I trust impartial justice." that the Society may long continue to dis- TO THE ST. PATRICK SOCIETY OF QUEBEC. charge its beneficent task in the noble spirit [Delivered in reply to an address, on the by which it has been animated, and that 18th of October,in the Citadel.] every year will enlarge the circle of its in- fluence and the scope of its operations. I "Mr. President and Gentlemen, — shall be careful to inform Lady Dufferin of accept the kind address with which you the kind way in which you have remember- have honoured me with the greatest satis- ed her on the x present occasion." faction, not only because I recollect with gratitude the kind reception you gave me Lord Dufferin sailed down the St. Law- in miserable weather, when I first landed on these shores, but rence from Quebec, on voices because I am well aware of the undoubted the 19th of October. The last he shores titles to the respect and confidence of their heard from the receding sang "God fellow-countrymen which are possessed by Save the Queen." When the Polynesian was " signalled the members of the St. Patrick Society of leaving the land "Good-bye was the simple potent word, Qnebec. In the first place, the members of to him—he returned the Society are all Irishmen, which is in it- self a very considerable merit ;'. but not only THANKS. — — ! ROBERTSON'S POPULAR LIBRARIES.

s cent Books. " It strengthens the author's position as a writer Robertson' 20 who has brought new life and a decided manli- ness into our native fiction."—Boston Courier. npOM BAILEY; OR, THE ADVEN- " ' Roxy,' a story whose purport and power are J- TURES OF A BAD BOY. By Thomas much deeper than the author has before reach- Bailey Aldrich; and BEING A BOY. By Gha's ed."—Springfield Bepuclican. Dudley Warner (the joint author with Mark "Its pictures of Western life are vivid, and Twain of the " The Gikled Age). Five Dollars' throughout betray the hand of a master in liter- worth for Twenty Cents. George Stewart, ature and fiction. "—Episcopal Register. jr., u popular Canadian writer, says that Aldrich, "The story of 'Roxy' is Dr. Eggleston's best in writing Tom Bailey, " Struck a note in boj'-life, work. It attains a higher merit than his other which was new and "fresh and original. It was works in epic purpose as well; as in dramatic like Tom Brown and then again it was not like form.' '— The Methodist. Tom Brown. Tom Bailey was a new character, a Inew type, and the autobiographical form of MILLBANK.- -MRS. HOLMES' the narrative gave a piquancy and tone to the most interesting and entrancing tales. book, which enlisted the sympathies of almost every boy in New England. What a picture of MAD MARRIAGE. BY MAY village life Aldrich gives in this rare romance A AGNES FLEMING. Who can read the book and not love Rivermouth, the Bivermouth which exists only in Aldrich's Robertson's 30 cent Books. pages ? Not a character in the book is over-drawn. There is not one of those improbable or impos- J. sible boys which people the pages of goodey DEULAH. BY AUGUSTA '-— " books to be found in it. Every boy loves Tom ' Evans. Who has not read with rare de- Bailey, the impulsive youngster, full of mischief light the novels of Augusta Evans ? Her strange, and forever playing pranks with his school-mates. wonderful, and fascinating style ; the profound The story is breezy and natural. The incidents depths to which she sinks the probe into human are managed with consummate skill, and the tone nature, touching its most sacred chords and of the book is healthy, and calculated to make springs ; the intense interest thrown around her boys love everything that is manly and true and characters, and the very marked peculiarities of despise all that is contemptible and mean. I her principal figures, conspire to give an unusual have read Tom Bailey three times, and I could interest to the works of this eminent Southern read it again with as much interest as when I authoress." cut the pages of the magazine which contained it first and read it in its monthly parts. If you CILENT AND TRUE. BY MAY want to know how good it is, just hand a copy of O AGNES FLEMING. "Mrs. Fleming's stories it to a bo5^, and I'll be nruch mistaken if you hear are growing more and more popular every day. anything else but Tom Bailey from him for three Their delineations of character, life-like conver- months after he has read it. It is full of adven- sations, flashes of wit, constantly varying scenes, ture and spirit, and sketches of boy-life, inter- and deeply interesting plots, combine to place spersed now and then with reflections from which their author in the very first rank of Modern ' even an old head ' could gain wisdom now and Novelists." again." "Tom Bailey" and "Being a Boy" are publish- TERRIBLE SECRET.—BY in one cover in Robertson's 20 cent Library A May Agnes Fleming. Robertson's 25 cent Books. UY EARLSCOURT'S WIFE.— G By May Agnes Fleming. OSIAH ALLEN'S WIFE — \/ASHTI ; OR, UNTIL DEATH US J A Representative Opinion. " This book V of Josiah Allen's Wife is more than entertaining, DOdo PART,PART. By Augusta J. Evans, author of • it abounds in mother wit and shrewd common St. Elmo, Infelice, BeulaJi, &c. sense. After an hour of honest work on Bacon's Essays or Calvin's Institutes, one may well be NE NIGHT'S MYSTERY.—BY pardoned for spending a half hour with this very o May Agnes Fleming. Equal in interest to ' ' wise ' and cute ' old lady. For myself I confess any of Mrs. Fleming's works. that, after a half hour with Bacon and Calvin, I gave a whole hour to the old lady. I propose to ACARIA OR, ALTARS OF ; read the book aloud to the bosom of my family M SACRIFICE. By Augusta J. Evans. after the day's work is done ; and then to give it a place on my shelf with " Innocents Abroad," HEIR OF ' HE CHARLTON.— and such bound volumes of the ' London Punch T By May Agnes Fleming. Her latest book. as I ought to possess." C. B. Crane, Pastor of South Baptist Church, Hartford, Co. pARL DUFFERIN'S SPEECHES TDOXY.—BY EDWARD EGGLE- *—' —Contains every speech delivered in Can- -L V STON, author of the Hoosier Schoolmaster. ada—unchanged and unabridged. This edition T THE CRITICS is limited, is not sterotyed and will not be re- SAY l— ',-; " It deserves a high place among contemporary printed. y fiction."—Pall Mall Gazette. " ' Roxy ' may be accepted as the latest example Robertson's 35 cent Books. of a purely American novel, and, to say the least, one of the very best." Netv York Tribune. • A WONDERFUL WOMAN. By "In this novel Dr. Eggleston's powers appear -f*- May Agnes Fleming A splendid story. at their best and [amplest, and he has accom- 250 pages of a sparkling novel for 35 cents. plished the by no means easy task of excelling himself.'' Boston Journal. "There can be no doubt whatever that 'Roxy' ROBERTSON'S PUBLICATIONS.—If your is the best production of Dr. Eggleston's activity Newsdealer cannot supply you, ask him to send in the field of fiction."—N. Y. Evening Post. an order to the Toronto News Company, Toronto "As a pure but vigorous American romance, or Clifton, or the Publisher, either of whom will mail the Mr. Eggleston's new work is better even than his books free on receipt of the price. J. 'Hoosier Schoolmaster' and 'Circuit Rider."— Ross Robertson, Publisher, 67 Yonge Street, Philadelphia Evening Bulletin* Toronto, Out. SIXTH EDITION NOW READY. HUSBANDS, TAKE HOME TO YOUR WIVES THE NEW BOOK FOR YOUNG MOTHERS (AND FATHERS TOO), "HOW WE RAISED OUR RARY."

WHAT EMINENT TORONTO PHYSICIANS SAY.

1 /x Brooklyn Physician says : —"Its one aim is to'help young mothers (and fathers too).'

' To many i ouseholds this book will be as a light shining in a dark place.'' AN. Y. Physician says: —"I cheerfully commend a reading of this book to even physician."- — Dr. Thorburn, ot Toronto, says : " It is full of practical, sound intelligence." Dr. Fulton, of Toronto, writes: —"Every mother should read this book, and even- father too." Dr. C. B. Hall, of Toronto, writes: — " It is the most useful and concise book I ever read for instructing parents in dress, feeding and management of babeis."

— ' Dr. J. H. Burns, of Toronto, writes: " I have read How We Raised Our Baby, with much satistaction." " It contains important facts with which every parent should be acquainted." — Dr. J. Adams, of Toronto, writes: " I would stronly recommend every young husband to present a copy of this book to his wife before the advent of their first baby." Dr. Geikie, of Toronto, writes :—" The author's idea is good one—telling his readers a great many good things about feeding and caring for infants." PRICE FORTY CENTS, Every Mother, and every Woman who expects to be a Mother, should read this book. '

The Toronto Hews Company, Wholesale Agents, Toronto and -Clifton-.

I