His Honor the President and Council, and the Speaker and Gentlemen of the Assembly, to His Excellency the Governor in Chief, p. 10.
His Honor the President and Council, and the Speaker and Gentlemen of the Assembly, to His Excellency the Governor in Chief, p. 10.
The Board and House having come to the following Resolution of voting the sum of 1,000l.sterling, for the purpose of purchasing a Sword and Service of Plate to be presented to his Excellency Governor Prevost, in the name of the Colony, as a token of its gratitude for the gallant defence thereof by his Excellency on the memorable 22d February last,
Also a sum not exceeding 300l.sterling, for defraying the expense of a Monument to the memory of the late Major Nunn who gallantly fell on the same memorable occasion,
Also the sum of 100 guineas for the purchase of a Sword to be presented to Major O'Connell, And 300l.sterling to be presented to Captain James, commanding the 46th regiment, to be laid out in the purchase of a Service of Plate for the use of the officers' Mess of that regiment—request your Excellency's' assent thereto, and that you will issue your warrants to the Treasurer accordingly.
T. Metcalf, President.J. Lucas, Speaker.Council Chamber, 12th May, 1805.House of Assembly, 15th May, 1805.
Resolutions of the Patriotic Club, and Letter of the Chairman to General Prevost, p. 10.
Patriotic Fund, Lloyd's, May 14, 1805.
At a Special General Meeting of the Committee held this day,
Joseph Marryat, Esq. in the Chair,Read, from the London Gazette of the 7th of May, a letter from Lieut.-General Sir William Myers, Bart. commanding His Majesty's troops in the Windward and Leeward Islands, to Earl Camden, one of his Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, inclosing a letter from Brigadier-General Prevost, Governor of Dominica, relating to the vigorous and gallant resistance made by the troops and militia under his command, against the very superior force with which the French landed at Roseau, on the 22d of February last; his retreat to the fort at Prince Ruperts; and the resolution he expressed, in answer to the summons of General Lagrange, of defending it to the last extremity; in consequence of which the enemy abandoned the enterprise, and evacuated the Island.
Resolved,
That a Sword of the value of 100l., and a Piece of Plate, of the value of 200l., with appropriate inscriptions, be presented to Brigadier-General Prevost, for the distinguished gallantry and military talents he displayed on that occasion, by which the sovereignty of the Island was preserved to His Majesty's arms.
That a Sword of Fifty Pounds value, and a Piece of Plate, of the value of 100l., with appropriate inscriptions, or that sum in money, at his option, be presented to Major Nunn, wounded while faithfully executing the orders of General Prevost, "Not to yield to the enemy one inch of ground."
That a Sword of 50l.value, and a Piece of Plate, of the value of 100l., with appropriate inscriptions, or that sum in money, at his option, be presented to Captain O'Connell, whose wound did not induce him to forego the honour of the command to which he succeeded on Major Nunn being disabled; and in which he resisted the repeated charges of the enemy, notwithstanding their great superiority in numbers, till he obliged them to retire with great slaughter.
That the sum of 100l.be presented to Captain Colin Campbell, wounded.
That the sum of 40l.each be given to the men whose wounds have been attended with disability or loss of limb.
That the sum of 20l.each be given to the other men severely wounded.
And the sum of 10l.each, to the men slightly wounded, including the Militia of the Island.
That Brigadier-General Prevost be requested to advise the Committee of the mode in which the Resolutions respecting himself, Major Nunn, and Captain O'Connell, can be most acceptably carried into effect—to distribute the sums voted to the men wounded, and draw for the amount—furnishing the Committee with the names of the parties, and the sums respectively paid them—and to forward to the Committee the best information he can procure respecting the families of the men killed, including the Militia of the Island, that relief may be afforded to such widows, orphans, and aged parents, as depended upon them for support.
Joseph Marryat, Chairman.
(Copy.)
London, May 15, 1805.
"Sir,
"I have the honor to inclose you the resolutions of the Committee of the Patriotic Fund, on their taking into consideration the official account of the gallant and successful defence, made by you, and the brave men under your command, against the very superior force with which the enemy invested Dominica, on the 22d February last. That the sovereignty of the Island was preserved to the British Crown, must be in a great degree ascribed, under Divine Providence, to the talents with which you conducted the military operations; to the confidence which those who served under you had in those talents; and the animation with which they were inspired by your example.
"The primary object of this Fund being the relief of the wounded, and the families of those killed in the service of their country, the Committee, on every occasion, restricttheir votes of honorary marks of distinction for gallant conduct, to the commanding officers. This, they trust, will satisfactorily explain to those brave officers, to whose merit you bear such honorable testimony, the reason of their not being noticed in these resolutions.
"The Committee, cannot but remark the very distinguished manner in which the inhabitants of Dominica have displayed those gallant exertions against the enemy, to which they so readily came forward to animate others, by contributing to this fund. The Committee trust, that in attending to the other objects of the inclosed resolutions, you will be particularly careful to recommend to their consideration, the distressed relatives which any of the Militia of the Colony may have left unprovided for. Your bills, at three days sight, on Sir Francis Baring, Bart., Chairman of the Patriotic Fund, at Lloyds, for the amount of the sums voted to the wounded men, will be immediately honored. As those who are disabled, will be invalided and sent home, the Committee submit it to your discretion, whether the gratuities to them had not better be paid them on their arrival here, under your certificate of their claims.
"You will be pleased to accompany your draft, with a letter, giving the names of the parties wounded, and the sums respectively paid to each; which the Committee leave to your judgment, according to the nature and extent of the injuries they have received, instead of waiting for further information to act upon themselves.
"I have the honor to be, Sir,"Your most obedient humble servant,"Joseph Marryat,Chairman.""Brigadier-General Prevost."
At a General Meeting of West India Planters and Merchants, held at the London Tavern, Bishopsgate Street, May 22, 1805, p. 10.
At a General Meeting of West India Planters and Merchants, held at the London Tavern, Bishopsgate Street, May 22, 1805, p. 10.
Resolved unanimously,
That the thanks of this Meeting be given to his Excellency Brigadier-General Prevost, Governor of the Island of Dominica, for the distinguished gallantry and high military talents he displayed on the 22d of February, 1805, in the defence and effectual protection of that Colony against a numerous, powerful, and unexpected force from France.
And that this resolution be communicated to General Prevost, in a letter from the Right Honorable Lord Penrhyn, the Chairman of this Meeting.
Resolved unanimously,
That this Meeting, impressed with the highest sense of the important service rendered to all the West India Colonies, by the able resistance made by General Prevost to the landing of the enemy on the 22d of February, 1805, do request that he will accept from the general body of West India Planters and Merchants, a Piece of Plate, of the value of 300 guineas, with an inscription expressive of the sense of this resolution.
Resolved unanimously,
That the thanks of this Meeting be given to the Field-Officers, Captains, and other Commissioned Officers of the Royal Artillery, the 46th regiment, the 1st West India regiment, and also to the officers of the Colonial Militia, for the gallant conduct they respectively exemplified, and the zealous co-operation they afforded on the same occasion, and that his Excellency the Governor be requested to communicate the same.
Resolved unanimously,
That his Excellency General Prevost be requested, in a letter from the Chairman, to signify to the Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates of his Majesty's Regular and Militia forces at Dominica, the high sense this Meeting entertains of their services in resisting the French force on the 22d of February, 1805.
Extract from the Dominica Journal, of Saturday, July 6th, 1805, p. 10.
Roseau, July 6th, 1805.
Yesterday afternoon, embarked from Roseau, in the Garrison-boat, (under a salute from Fort Young and Scot's Head) for Prince Ruperts, to join his amiable family, who left town the day preceding, his Excellency Major-General George Prevost, our worthy and highly respected Governor, a gentleman who retires from his government with the pleasing gratification of the consciousness of having faithfully discharged his duty to his Sovereign, at the same time that he has, as conscientiously, studied the interests of the people, over whom he has for nearly three years most uprightly and honorably presided.
We presume not to arrogate to ourselves talents capable of becoming the panegyrists of a Prevost—we shall confine ourselves to observing that his remembrance will be ever held dear in the breast of every worthy inhabitant of this Colony; and by declaring that it is our sincere prayer that his merit may meet its due reward from our most Gracious Sovereign, and that himself and family may pass their future days in the enjoyment of every earthly felicity.
Dispatches from Sir George Beckwith, and Letter from Lord Castlereagh, p. 11.
Downing-street, March 27.
The following despatches have this day been received from Lieut.-General Beckwith, Commander of His Majesty's Forces in the Leeward Islands, addressed to Lord Viscount Castlereagh.
The following despatches have this day been received from Lieut.-General Beckwith, Commander of His Majesty's Forces in the Leeward Islands, addressed to Lord Viscount Castlereagh.
"Martinique, Feb. 1.
"My Lord,
"In my last, No. 42, I had the honour to report to your Lordship the sailing of the army from Carlisle Bay upon the 28th ult. I have now the satisfaction to acquaint your Lordship that we landed in two divisions upon the 30th; the first division, under the orders of Lieutenant-General Sir G. Prevost, consisting of between 6 and 7,000 men, at Bay Robert, on the windward coast, in the course of the afternoon, without opposition; and, notwithstanding the difficulties of the country, we occupied a position on the banks of the Grand Lezard River before day-break of the 31st, with a corps of nearly 4,000 men, after a night march of seven miles through a difficult country. These services were greatly facilitated by the judicious and manly conduct of Captain Beaver, of His Majesty's ship Acasta, who led into the Bay in a bold and officer-like manner, preceded by His Majesty's brig Forester, Captain Richards. The exertions and success of this measure were completely effective, two transports only striking in the narrow passage at the entrance of the Bay. Hitherto we have experienced no resistance from the militia of the country; and they manifest a disposition every where to return to their homes, in conformity to a joint proclamation by the Admiral and myself, which is obtaining a very extensive circulation. The second division of the army, consistingof upwards of 3,000 men, under the command of Major-General Maitland, landed near St. Luce and Point Solomon on the morning of the 30th; but, as our communication with that corps is not yet established, I cannot enter into any details. Lieutenant-General Sir G. Prevost, with the advance in my front, will take possession of the heights of Bruno in the course of this day; and I am led to expect will there, for the first time, feel the pulse of the regular troops of the enemy. The port of Trinite, which lies beyond the line of our operations, will, by order of Captain Beaver, of the navy, be taken possession of this day, by a detachment of seamen and marines from the squadron to windward, under the command of Captain Dick, of the Penelope. The Admiral, with the body of the fleet and store-ships, is in the vicinity of Pigeon Island, at the entrance of Fort Royal Bay. Our operations to windward have been vigorous and effectual in point of time; and the privations of the troops have been considerable, and borne in a manner worthy of the character of British soldiers. From what has passed, I am of opinion the inhabitants of the country manifest a friendly disposition; and after the heights of Surirey shall be carried, which I expect will be strongly contested, the campaign will be reduced to the operations of a siege, and the defence of the fortress.—The services rendered by the captains and officers of the navy to windward have been great and essential, and the exertions of Captain Withers of the navy, principal agent for transports, peculiarly meritorious.
"Geo. Beckwith,Com. Forces."
"Martinique, Heights of Surirey, Feb. 3.
"My Lord,
"In my letter of the 1st inst. I had the honour to report, for His Majesty's information, the progress then made in our operations against the enemy. My expectation that Lieutenant-General Sir G. Prevost would meet them uponMorne Bruno, and that the heights of Surirey would be warmly contested, was realized in the course of the same day; and both were carried under the direction of the Lieutenant-General, with that decision and judgment which belong to this respectable officer, and much to the honour of Brigadier-General Hoghton, the officers and men of the Fusileer brigade and light battalion, engaged on that service. On the 2nd, it appeared to me to be desirable to extend to the right of our position; which was effected in a spirited manner by the King's infantry. An exertion was then made to carry the advanced redoubt; but, having soon reason to believe that it would have been acquired with a loss beyond the value of the acquisition, the troops were withdrawn; and the enemy abandoned it during the night, with another redoubt contiguous to it, with evident marks of disorder: both will be occupied and included in our position this night. Pigeon Island surrendered at discretion yesterday, which enables the shipping to enter Fort Royal Bay; all the batteries on the Case Naviere side have been destroyed and abandoned, a frigate and some other merchant-vessels burned, the lower fort abandoned, and all their troops withdrawn from Fort Royal to the principal fortress. I consider the investiture to be nearly completed, and we must now look for the operations of a siege. Time does not admit of details; but your Lordship will perceive that these operations have been effected in eight days from our quitting Barbadoes, notwithstanding heavy rains and most unfavourable weather, in which the troops have borne every species of privation in a manner worthy their character as British soldiers.
"Geo. Beckwith,Com. Forces."
"Camp, Heights of Surirey,Martinique, Feb. 10.
"My Lord,
"Having, in my communications of the 1st and 5th instant, submitted to your Lordship's consideration generalreports of the operations of the army I have the honour to command, I now beg leave to inclose the special reports of the General Officers commanding divisions, and of Brigadier-General Hoghton, whose brigade was in action upon the 1st; with separate returns of our loss upon the 1st and 2nd, which, I am inclined to believe, will terminate our operations in the field.—The lower fort, formerly Fort Edward, was taken possession of before day-break in the morning of the 8th, by Major Henderson, commanding the Royal York Rangers, with that regiment, without resistance, and we now occupy that work. St. Pierre surrendered to Lieutenant-Colonel Barnes, of the 46th, the day before yesterday; and I have not yet received the details. In the course of all these services, where the co-operation of the navy was practicable, the greatest exertions have been made by the Rear-admiral; and the important advantages rendered on shore by that excellent officer, Commodore Cockburn, in the reduction of Pigeon Island, and the landing cannon, mortars, and ammunition at Point Negroe, and conveying them to the several batteries on that side, have been of the highest importance to the King's service.
"Geo. Beckwith,Com. Forces."
"Martinique, Heights of Surirey, Feb. 2.
"Sir,
"In conformity with your orders, I disembarked on the 30th ult. with the Fuzileer brigade of the 1st division of the army, at Malgre Tout, in the Bay Robert, at four o'clock, p. m. and proceeded from thence to De Manceau's estate, where I arrived late, in consequence of the difficulties of the country, and the unfavourable state of the roads for the movement of cannon. Before the dawn of the next day, I reached Papin's, and proceeded from thence with the advance, composed of the Royal Fusileer regiment, and the grenadiercompany of the 1st West India regiment. The enemy retiring before me, I reached the heights of De Bork's estate towards evening, where I was joined at day-light on the 1st inst. by Brigadier-General Hoghton, with the 23rd regiment and the light infantry battalion, under the command of Major Campbell, of the Royal West India Rangers. I lost no time after this junction, and pushed forwards the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonel Pakenham, with the Royal Fusileers, to possess himself of Morne Bruno; this movement I supported by the light infantry battalion, under Brigadier-General Hoghton, who was ordered, after uniting the two corps, to proceed to force the heights of Desfourneaux, whilst I held the Royal Welsh Fusileers in reserve, to strengthen such points of attack as might require it. On my coming on the heights of Surirey, I had innumerable proofs of the valour and judgment of the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonel Pakenham, of the excellence of the Fusileer brigade, and of the spirited and judicious exertions of Lieutenant-Colonel Ellis, and Majors Pearson and Ostley, of the 23rd or Royal Welsh Fusileers; also of the bravery of Major Campbell and the light infantry battalion; all of which have enabled me to retain this valuable position without artillery, within 300 yards of the enemy's intrenched camp, covered with guns. The officers belonging to my staff distinguished themselves by their zeal and activity during the heat of the action. I have to lament the loss of Captain Taylor, Acting Deputy-Quarter-Master-General, who was severely wounded whilst rendering effectual services to his country.—I cannot omit acknowledging, that to Lieutenant Hobbs, of the Royal Engineers, I am indebted for the rapidity of our movements, and ultimate success, from his acquaintance with this country, which enabled him to guide and direct our movements.
"Geo. Prevost,Lieut.-Gen."
(Private.)
"Downing-street, May 25th, 1809.
"Dear Sir,
"I beg to congratulate you on the successful termination of the operations in Martinique, in which you bore so distinguished a part. I hope that this will find you safely returned to Nova Scotia, without having suffered in your health from your West India campaign.
"I remain, dear Sir,"Your faithful and obedient servant,"Castlereagh.""Lieut.-Gen. Sir G. Prevost,&c. &c. &c."
Addresses presented to Sir George Prevost, on his Arrival at the Islands of Dominica and St. Christopher, p. 11.
Addresses presented to Sir George Prevost, on his Arrival at the Islands of Dominica and St. Christopher, p. 11.
To His Excellency Lieut.-Gen. Sir George Prevost, Bart. &c. &c. &c.
"May it please your Excellency,
"We, His Majesty's loyal subjects, the Members of the House of Assembly of the Island of Dominica, avail ourselves of the occasion of your Excellency's visit to your late government, to repeat to you the assurances of the high esteem which we have ever entertained for the character of your Excellency, and to express our most grateful sense of the unabated zeal which your Excellency has evinced, on every occasion, to promote the welfare and prosperity of this colony, as well as to add glory to the arms of your country.
"With every anniversary of the 22nd February, will the services rendered by your Excellency recur to our memory,not only from the gallantry displayed by your Excellency upon that occasion, when opposed to so superior a force, but for your subsequent exertions in favour of the unfortunate sufferers by the fire, to which may be chiefly attributed the relief afforded them by the mother country.
"We beg leave to congratulate your Excellency upon the brilliant result of the operations against the enemy's most important colonial possession, and by which, an opportunity has been afforded you, of acquiring fresh laurels, in addition to those which already grace your Excellency.
"We most heartily and sincerely wish your Excellency a prosperous and pleasant passage to your government, and we anticipate that reward which awaits you (ever most pleasing to a soldier)—the approbation of your sovereign.
"Jno. Hy. Hobson,Speaker.""House of Assembly,15th March, 1809."
Reply of Sir George Prevost.
"Mr. Speaker, and
"Gentlemen of the House of Assembly,
"I feel flattered by your expressions of personal consideration, and highly gratified that my exertions in favour of the sufferers on the memorable 22d of February, 1805, were attended by some success.
"I thank you for your congratulations on the favourable termination of a short, but brilliant campaign.
"George Prevost.""Government-House, 15thMarch, 1809."
To His Excellency Lieut.-Gen. Sir George Prevost, Bart. &c. &c. &c.
"May it please your Excellency,
"We the merchants and inhabitants of this His Majesty's Island of Saint Christopher, beg leave to approachyour Excellency with the warmest congratulations on your arrival in this colony; and to assure your Excellency that could any circumstance enhance the satisfaction we receive upon this occasion, it must proceed from the happy contemplation of the recent success which has crowned the exertions to which you have so pre-eminently contributed in the reduction of the Island of Martinique to His Majesty's arms: a conquest which has at once given additional splendour to the British name, and added another signal example of your merit, perseverance, and intrepidity.
"Although pre-eminent as your Excellency is viewed, by every class of your heroic brothers in arms, we cannot, however, but assure your Excellency, that the high and general estimation which every inhabitant of the sister colony (hitherto entrusted to your command), feels toward you, (and which colony you so gallantly defended against a superior force), contributes most powerfully to endear you to every individual of this island, in the united character of a brave soldier and a good citizen.
"We trust your Excellency's stay amongst us will be protracted for a time equal to the wishes of this community, who anxiously express the most ardent desire of offering to your Excellency every testimony of the high consideration they entertain of you, and the brave soldiers under your command.
"A great and good King, who can appreciate merit and bestow reward, will add stability to our expressions, and pronounce to the world, by his commendations, that we have not presumed to announce your merits, but from the truest heralds of your fame—men who have shared your dangers and received your smiles—the British soldiery."
"Basseterre, March 21st, 1809."
Reply of Sir George Prevost.
To the Merchants and Inhabitants of the Island of St. Christopher.
"Gentlemen,
"Highly flattered as I feel by the address of the merchants and inhabitants of His Majesty's Island of St. Christopher; the gratification I derive from this testimony of their consideration, increases my very sincere regret that the interest of the public service deprives me of the opportunity of indulging my private feelings in making a longer stay than my duty will in the present instance permit;—I shall ever most eagerly and joyfully avail myself of every occasion of testifying to this island, my sincerest and best wishes for its welfare and prosperity.
(Signed) "George Prevost.""Basseterre, March 21st, 1809."
Address from the Inhabitants of Halifax, p. 12.
To His Excellency Sir George Prevost, Bart. &c. &c. &c.
"Sir,
"Your Excellency intending shortly to leave this Province, the inhabitants of Halifax cannot omit expressing to you their unfeigned regret on the occasion, and, at the same time, testifying their gratitude for the many real benefits which the province has derived from your short administration of the government.
"We have often been induced to come forward to manifest our esteem for many valuable and respectable characters, who have filled high stations in this country, for it has been our good fortune to have had many men of tried worth at the head of the civil, naval, and military departments here; butbelieve us, Sir, we use not the language of flattery, when we say, that we have never felt more sincere regret, than for your departure from us.
"Equity has been the ruling principle of your administration, and the most unremitting attention to public business its invariable practice: your indefatigable zeal carried you into the most remote parts of the province, and you became early acquainted with our situation and our wants. The confidence with which you inspired the legislative body, induced them to provide ample supplies for the different branches of the public service. The wisdom with which they have been appropriated, equals the liberality with which they were granted, and must produce extensive and permanent benefits to the country at large.
"Your ears have been open to the petitioners of every class, and your ready attention to their wants and their claims, has left no cause for complaint. With the sentiments of affectionate and respectful regard which you have excited in our breasts—while we deplore our loss, we cannot but derive consolation from the justly merited honours that cause your removal.
"We consider your appointment to the supreme command of British North America, as an earnest of the blessing which His Majesty's subjects, on the western side of the Atlantic, are to enjoy under the government of the august personage, the anniversary of whose birth we this day assemble to commemorate. At this critical period, when the prejudices and misguided councils of a neighbouring nation render it not improbable that we may be called upon to defend the invaluable privileges of Englishmen, it must be a source of satisfaction to every loyal subject, that His Royal Highness, in the name of our venerable sovereign, has entrusted the defence of these colonies to an officer, who has so frequently proved himself worthy of commanding British colonies. May he ever, Sir, be thus influenced in his nominations to offices of great trust and high responsibility, by the merit of those onwhom they are to be conferred. We thank you for your condescension in permitting your portrait to be taken and left with us. It will be a perpetual memorial of a personage, whose public conduct and private virtues have been so beneficial and endearing to His Majesty's subjects in this province.
"You go, Sir, to a more exalted station; but you cannot go where you will be more beloved or respected. In taking our leave of you, permit us to assure you of our warmest wishes, that every blessing may be yours, and every happiness attend your amiable and exemplary lady, and each individual of your excellent family.
"Halifax, 12th August, 1811."
Addresses from the Clergy of Nova Scotia, &c. &c. to Lieutenant-General Sir George Prevost, Bart. &c. &c. &c. p. 12.
Addresses from the Clergy of Nova Scotia, &c. &c. to Lieutenant-General Sir George Prevost, Bart. &c. &c. &c. p. 12.
"Sir,
"Although the clergy of the established church of Nova Scotia most cordially join in the general tribute of respect, which is now offered to your Excellency; and very largely share in the sincere regret, so universally excited by your intended departure from this province; the important benefits which you have rendered to the sacred objects of our profession, by your Excellency's exertions in their behalf, impel us to a more particular expression of our gratitude, and our grief.
"Your Excellency has a claim upon the best acknowledgments we can offer, for every mark of respect to our office, and every condescending attention to ourselves, thatwe could receive at your hands; accompanied by continual endeavours to promote the cause of literature and religion in this colony.
"Through your Excellency's attentive kindness, and your representations to the throne, the most benevolent assistance has been extended to our churches, and in every part of the province they are now receiving improvement and enlargement. While our dutiful and affectionate gratitude is directed towards the royal source of these great benefits, we cannot be wanting in warm and grateful respect, for the channel through which they have been obtained.
"Nor are we under less obligation, for the uniform and exemplary attention of your Excellency, and your family, to the public and private duties of religion. You will permit us, Sir, though duly sensible of your other numerous and distinguished merits, to consider this among the brightest ornaments of your character. It supplies us with most gratifying evidence, to an important truth, that the ablest and best servants to their King and country, must be sought among those who are most faithful to their God.
"Feeling as we do the extensive and peculiar benefits of your Excellency's residence among us, it is impossible that we should not have the deepest regret for your departure. But it will be our duty to seek for alleviation for our sorrow, in grateful recollection of the benefits we have already received, and in humble hope that the influence of your example will remain, when we can no longer enjoy the advantages of your presence. We have unfeigned satisfaction also, in the increased honours, and more extensive command, to which you are called, by the discerning favour of your Prince; and we shall have much comfort in reflecting, that although your Excellency will be advanced from the particular charge of this province, we shall still have the happiness of being under your general government.
"Permit us to assure you, Sir, that our sincerely affectionate respect and esteem will ever follow you; and thatour fervent prayers are now offered, and will be long continued, for every blessing to yourself and family; for every honour you can now enjoy; and for unfading glory when all the honours of the world shall have passed away."
"Halifax, Aug. 15th, 1811."
His Excellency's Reply.
"I received with sentiments of peculiar satisfaction, the address of the Right Reverend the Bishop and the clergy of Nova Scotia.
"My fervency in that important cause they especially promote, renders their favourable consideration of my government, an act at once gratifying for the past, and encouraging for the future, under whatever situation my sovereign's commands may place me. I am well aware, that if our revered and pious King could investigate the course of my administration in this province, there is no part of it which would ensure me his royal favour, equal to the testimony with which I am honoured in this address.
"George Prevost.""Government House,15th August."
Halifax, August 19.
The following addresses were presented to his Excellency Sir George Prevost, Bart. last week.
The Address of the Council to his Excellency Sir George Prevost, Bart. Lieut.-Governor of Nova-Scotia, &c. &c. &c.
"Sir,
"His Majesty's Council cannot take leave of your Excellency at this Board, without an expression of those sentiments which they cordially feel upon the painful eve of your departure.
"The general regret of the province upon this occasion,pervading every class, and flowing from the purest of sources, must afford you, Sir, the most satisfactory evidence, that you have lived here in the hearts of His Majesty's subjects;—and that you have well merited the affection they manifest: to us who have had the honour of a closer communication with your Excellency, and have, thus, become intimately acquainted with your talents and your virtues, you have been more perfectly known;—by us, you will of course be doubly regretted.
"We early discovered your vigilance, and energetic zeal for the good of the province,—your acute discernment of its best interests,—your perseverance in the pursuit of every object that could lead to its welfare,—and your unwearied attention to its minutest concerns;—we soon discovered that excellent understanding, which has so well fitted you to govern, and that integrity and independence, which have rendered your government so beloved, and so respectable.
"It is, however, to these talents and virtues, that we are to impute our present loss;—the discerning mind of our excellent Prince has called you to a higher appointment, and our fellow subjects of a sister colony will have the satisfaction of receiving that boon, with which we are now parting;—we have a consolation, however, in reflecting, that we are still to remain within the influence of your valued abilities, and that we may feel the effects of their spirited exertions, in a contiguous, and more extensive quarter of the British empire;—wherever your duties, civil or military, may call you, to the cabinet as a statesman, or to the field as a soldier, we are confident you will deserve well of your country, and justify, to the fullest extent, the very high opinion upon which your preferment has been founded.
"As your council,—with whom you have ever advised, upon terms of the most unreserved candour and harmony,—as your friends,—with whom you have ever associated, upon terms of the most affectionate condescension; we, Sir, with feelings of the purest regret,—and with the sincerest wishes for thewelfare of yourself and your family,—earnestly bid you farewell."
Answer.
"Gentlemen,
"The expressions of general esteem and approbation, with which I have been honoured, concurring with the sentiments of His Majesty's Council, is a circumstance peculiarly gratifying to me. You, gentlemen, are intimately acquainted with the principles upon which my conduct has been founded, others can only judge from the effects produced by the measures pursued during my administration.
"If my endeavours in the public service have been successful, I may ascribe much of that success to the able assistance I have received from you.
"Your advice, ever springing from a perfect knowledge of the true interests of the province, a due regard to the just rights of the people, and a zealous attachment to His Majesty's person and government, has enabled me to accomplish objects of much promise to the future prosperity of this province.
"Having expressed the obligations I feel on public ground, I am not the less sensible of those of a personal nature.
"I shall ever reflect with satisfaction on the happy state of our intercourse during the period of my administration.—It is, therefore, with feelings of the sincerest regard, I repeat your farewell.
"George Prevost.""Government House,16th Aug. 1811."
To his Excellency Sir George Prevost, Bart. Lieut.-Governor and Commander-in-Chief in and over His Majesty's Province of Nova Scotia, &c. &c. &c.
To his Excellency Sir George Prevost, Bart. Lieut.-Governor and Commander-in-Chief in and over His Majesty's Province of Nova Scotia, &c. &c. &c.
"We the undersigned representatives for the county and townships within the county of Hants, as well for ourselvesas our constituents: the clergy and magistrates in the same county, beg leave to address your Excellency upon your departure from this government.
"We have recently heard with mingled joy and concern, that His Majesty has raised you to the distinguished, but well-merited favour of being appointed Governor-General of the British Provinces in North America, and that your Excellency will immediately proceed to your government. Upon this occasion we cannot forbear expressing our grateful sense of your wise and mild administration.
"The ardour manifested by your Excellency, in promoting the true interests of this province, has made a deep impression upon the minds of the people of this happy and highly-favoured colony.
"Under your government, Sir, though a short one, the agriculture, commerce, and fisheries of the province have rapidly increased; religion has been cherished, schools established, extensive roads of communication with the capital opened and improved, the militia organized and disciplined, and under the most salutary regulations rendered efficient.
"The inhabitants of the county of Hants, deeply impressed with a sense of the benefits they have received, will ever retain a grateful recollection of them, and while they lament the departure of your Excellency from this government, are made happy by the consideration that your Excellency has experienced an additional mark of the Royal favour.
"We earnestly pray that your Excellency, Lady Prevost and family, may have a pleasant voyage, and arrive in safety at the seat of your government, and be attended throughout life with the choicest blessings of Providence.
[Signed by the Representatives, Magistrates,Clergy, and other principal Inhabitants.]"Windsor, 13th August, 1811."
Reply.
"Gentlemen,
"With feelings of satisfaction and gratitude, I return you my best thanks for the warm assurance of your regard, so kindly manifested in your address upon my departure.
"Your high approbation of my measures I shall ever retain as an additional pledge of the general esteem of this province, which it has been my ambition to acquire; and, believe me, that among those of His Majesty's subjects, who have favoured me with their good opinion and good wishes, I feel much pleasure in receiving the affectionate address of the flourishing county of Hants.
"George Prevost."Government House,16th Aug. 1811."
To His Excellency Lieut.-General Sir George Prevost, Bart. Lieut.-Governor and Commander-in-Chief in and over His Majesty's Province of Nova Scotia, and its Dependencies, &c. &c. &c.
To His Excellency Lieut.-General Sir George Prevost, Bart. Lieut.-Governor and Commander-in-Chief in and over His Majesty's Province of Nova Scotia, and its Dependencies, &c. &c. &c.
"May it please your Excellency,
"The magistrates and militia officers of King's County, humbly intreat, that they may be allowed to offer their assurance of high respect and unfeigned esteem to your Excellency, on your departure from Nova Scotia. Your Excellency's unwearied attention to the welfare and best interest of this province, have engaged admiration, and given you a strong claim to our gratitude; while the wisdom, mildness, and firmness of your administration have commanded general confidence; and such are your military talents, that, though storms have been hovering around us, and threatened to burst over our heads, with dependence on Divine protection, we have felt secure, while our armed force was under your direction.
"The virtues of your character have endeared you to theinhabitants of Nova Scotia, and we cannot but feel regret at your departure: but a higher and more important station requires your talents and abilities; and we beg leave to congratulate you on the flattering testimony you have received of royal favour and approbation.
"Permit us to say, that we shall ever feel a lively interest in every thing that regards your Excellency, and that the name of Sir George Prevost will ever be dear and honoured among us.
"To Lady Prevost we beg leave to tender our best respects, and sincere wishes, for her future happiness.
"May a pleasant passage await you, and may you continue to receive, from our gracious Sovereign, those rewards which your services so justly entitle you to.
[Signed by the Magistrates, Clergy,Militia Officers, and other principalInhabitants.]"August 15th, 1811."
Reply.
"Gentlemen,
"Feeling a sincere regard for every class of people within this happy colony, I need not say that your kind address cannot but add to my gratification.
"I have made it my study to become acquainted with every part of the Province, with its views, its resources, and its advantages; but of your county I have had the satisfaction to obtain a more particular knowledge.
"The high state of its cultivation, and the agricultural benefits attending it, should make you proud of the land on which you live.
"Permit me, in return for your cordial address, to express my sincere wishes that your prosperity may continue, and that you may long live a free and happy people, under the best of governments.
"George Prevost.""Government House,16th Aug. 1811."
Address from the House of Assembly of Upper Canada to Sir George Prevost, March 1813, p. 75.
"May it please your Excellency,
"We, his Majesty's most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Commons of Upper Canada in Provincial Parliament assembled, beg leave to congratulate your Excellency on your arrival in this Province, and to express the unfeigned satisfaction it affords us in as much as it is an additional proof of the high interest your Excellency takes in the general welfare of this colony.
"We should be wanting to the sovereign, under whose paternal care we have so long lived, to our country and to ourselves, were we to neglect to offer to your Excellency at this time, the sentiments of gratitude with which we feel inspired for the marks of your attention manifested in providing clothing for a considerable portion of the loyal and brave militia of this Province, as well as for the active and vigorous exertions which have been made, and are now making for strengthening our marine force upon the Lakes, which will enable us to secure and preserve that superiority upon that favourite element to which Great Britain is indebted for her prosperity and glory; and on which our safety so materially depends.
"Emerging from a state of infancy, the inhabitants of this province have been enabled, by the aid afforded them by your Excellency in his Majesty's regular forces, to defeat the designs of the enemy; although his numbers have been in every instance so superior.
"To suppose your Excellency will not continue to extend every assistance to us in this emergency, would be the height of incredulity, after the testimony we have already witnessed of your vigilance and affectionate solicitude for our preservation. It would be superfluous, therefore, to suggest how much we stand in need of the fostering hand of our mother country—to be directed by the wisdom of your Excellency, in order that we may maintain the laws and constitution so dear to us, and which it is our sincere hope we may transmit unimpaired to our posterity.
"We hesitate not to say, that the energy your Excellency may exercise towards the attainment of this great end, will be zealously seconded by the people of this Province, and that their efforts under the influence of an omnipotent power, and the devotion of your Excellency's military skill, will be eventually successful.
"Allan M'Lean,Speaker."
Address from the Inhabitants of York to Sir George Prevost.
"May it please your Excellency,
"We the Magistrates and other inhabitants of the town of York, are happy in having an opportunity of paying that respect, which we owe to your Excellency, and of offering our most sincere thanks and acknowledgments for the attention you have been pleased to shew to this province.
"The pride and pleasure which we feel from the behaviour of our gallant militia, is greatly heightened when we consider that their conduct is honoured with your approbation, and that you are pleased to testify your sense of their services in ordering clothing for a considerable proportion oftheir number; an act of benevolence and humanity which will make a deep and lasting impression on their minds; and stimulate them to preserve that high character which they have already acquired.
"But we should, indeed, be much wanting to your Excellency, as well as to ourselves, if we did not on this occasion, with gratitude acknowledge the obligation which this province lies under to the valour and discipline of his Majesty's regular forces, whose courage and conduct, on the most trying emergencies, have done honour to the name and to the character of a British soldier.
"We are particularly gratified, and offer our most sincere thanks and acknowledgments for the vigorous exertions which have been made, and are still carrying on towards the strengthening our provincial marine, by order of your Excellency, fully convinced that to maintain a superiority upon the Lakes is an object of the first importance to this Province.
"Thankful for that success which has hitherto crowned his Majesty's arms under your command, we earnestly beg for its continuance, entertaining the pleasing hope, that by our own conduct, and the exertions of our brave defenders, we, in this Colony, by the blessing of God, may long remain under the protection of our parent State, a free, brave, and loyal people.
"Thomas Scott,Chairman."
Address from the Inhabitants of Kingston to Sir George Prevost.
"May it please your Excellency,
"We, his Majesty's most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Magistrates, Officers of the Militia, and other inhabitants of the town of Kingston, and other parts of the Midland District, beg leave respectfully to express the high sense we entertain of your Excellency's watchful care for the safetyof this Province, which has led you at this inclement season to undertake a toilsome journey of many hundred miles for the purpose of visiting and inspecting its extensive frontiers. Your presence, Sir, cannot but diffuse fresh energy in all classes of his Majesty's subjects, and encourage them to continue their zealous co-operation in the common cause; and we trust that under the judicious arrangement which has been made by your Excellency's orders, Divine Providence will continue to crown our exertions in defence of the Province against his Majesty's enemies with the same success by which they have been hitherto happily distinguished.
"Kingston, March 7, 1813."
Address from the Inhabitants of the Eastern District of Upper Canada to Sir George Prevost.