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+metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be
+in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES.
+
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+Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for
+eBook #53403 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/53403)
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- OLD MEMORIES: AMUSING AND HISTORICAL
-
-
-
-
-This ebook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
-most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
-of the Project Gutenberg License included with this ebook or online at
-https://www.gutenberg.org/license. If you are not located in the United
-States, you’ll have to check the laws of the country where you are
-located before using this ebook.
-
-
-
-Title: Old Memories: Amusing and Historical
-Author: Mrs. Daniel Macpherson
-Release Date: October 29, 2016 [EBook #53403]
-Language: English
-Character set encoding: UTF-8
-
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OLD MEMORIES: AMUSING AND
-HISTORICAL ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by Al Haines.
-
-
-
-
-
- *OLD MEMORIES:*
-
- *AMUSING AND HISTORICAL*
-
- _A SEQUEL TO_
-
- *"REMINISCENCES OF OLD QUEBEC."*
-
-
- BY
-
- MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON,
-
- AN OLD QUEBECER.
-
-
-
- MONTREAL:
- PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR.
-
-
-
-
- Entered according to Act of Parliament of Canada, in the
- year one thousand eight hundred and ninety, by
- MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON, in the office of the Minister of
- Agriculture and Statistics at Ottawa.
-
-
-
-
- DEDICATION.
-
- TO
-
- JAMES MACPHERSON LEMOINE, ESQ.,
-
- AUTHOR OF
-
- QUEBEC PAST AND PRESENT, MAPLE LEAVES, ETC.,
-
- MY DEAR HUSBAND’S COUSIN AND TRIED FRIEND,
-
- I DEDICATE THIS VOLUME AS A SLIGHT MARK OF ESTEEM.
-
- CHARLOTTE HOLT GETHINGS MACPHERSON.
-
-
-
-
- *CONTENTS.*
-
-
-To my Subscribers and the Public
-Sequel to Old Congregational Convent
-St. Louis Hotel
-The Quebec Bank
-Horse Boats and Ice Boats
-Beaumont, St. Thomas
-St. Michel
-A Chronicle of St. Michel
-Second Visit to Roberval, Lake St. John
-St. Leon Springs
-My Second Visit to St. Leon Springs
-St. Raymond
-St. Augustin
-St. André
-Les Eboulements
-Society in Quebec Fifty Years Ago
-Spencer Grange
-Society in 1854
-New Year’s Day, 1840
-A Point of Honor
-Country Post Offices Forty and Fifty Years Ago
-The Subterranean Passages of the Citadel of Quebec
-The First St. Patrick’s Society in Quebec
-Sillery Church
-St. Matthew’s Chapel
-Bishop Hamilton
-St. Patrick’s Cemetery
-Mount Hermon Cemetery
-In Memoriam
-November
-To the Oyster
-
-
-
-
- *TO MY SUBSCRIBERS AND THE PUBLIC.*
-
-
-MY FRIENDS,
-
-You have been so good to me, in purchasing, within a few weeks, five
-hundred copies of a feuilleton, only intended for private circulation, I
-should like to show my appreciation, by catering to your desire for
-information regarding our dear old city, Quebec; but what can I do? My
-learned friend, James Macpherson LeMoine, Esq., with his wonderful
-knowledge of facts, so exhausted the subject in his excellent and
-beautifully got up book, "Picturesque Quebec," I am utterly overwhelmed.
-Until I began to study the matter I was quite ignorant that he had
-written so fully on these matters, so I can only play Boswell to his
-Johnson, and as without Boswell many of the sayings of the immortal
-Johnson would have been lost, I too may have my use in recording crumbs
-of information, interesting and instructive, though lacking the dignity
-of history.
-
-Yours truly,
-CHARLOTTE HOLT GETHINGS MACPHERSON
-
-
-
-
- *OLD MEMORIES:*
-
- *AMUSING AND HISTORICAL.*
-
-
- SEQUEL TO "REMINISCENCES OF OLD QUEBEC,"
- BY MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON.
-
-
-My first recollection is that of being drawn in a child’s carriage by
-old Germain, messenger of the Quebec Bank (where I was born), to the old
-convent, formerly occupying the site of McCall, Shehyn & Co.’s store at
-the foot of Mountain Hill in St. Peter Street, Quebec. This convent has
-been non-existant for forty-seven years. Its community now reside in
-St. Joseph Street, St. Roch’s. When this convent was there, there was
-no St. Peter Street, there were no wharves, and an old sister told me
-the batteau men often struck their sails against their convent. I
-remember my father often called at the convent to take me out boating on
-the St. Lawrence River that lapped its shores, for the lower town of
-Quebec was then a delightful residence for Quebec people, only the
-military then residing in the Upper Town. Applying for information
-about this old convent to Ville Marie, the Mother House of this order, I
-received the following letter from one of the ladies:
-
-
- CONGREGATION DE NOTRE DAME,
-
-
-Montreal, October 10, 1890.
-
-Madam,
-
-As I am obliged to absent myself, I have only time to give the year of
-the present foundation at Quebec. The first house was in the Upper
-Town, established in 1688 under the direction of the venerable Mother
-Bourgeois. This house was transferred to the Lower Town in 1692, under
-Mons. de St. Vallière, and in 1844 the convent of the Lower Town not
-being any more convenient, the sisters went and fixed themselves in St.
-Roch’s under Monseigneur Signai and the Rev. Curé Mr. Charest. Rev. Mère
-St. Madeleine was Superioress of the Congregation of Notre Dame.
-
-I am sorry not to be able to give you further details.
-
-Your humble servant,
- Sr. St. Alexis de St. Joseph.
-
-
-
-
- *SEQUEL TO OLD CONGREGATIONAL CONVENT.*
-
-
- FRIDAY, October 10, 1890.
-
-I have just returned from a very pleasant visit (my first) to Villa
-Maria, the Maison Mère of the old Convent of the Congregation,
-forty-seven years ago at the foot of Mountain Hill, Quebec.
-
-Taking the St. Catherine street cars as far as the Post-Office, at the
-toll-gate you enter an omnibus (at certain hours) which takes you, for
-the moderate sum of five cents, to the gate leading into the grounds of
-Villa Maria, the first educational establishment of the Congregation de
-Nôtre Dame, formerly Moncklands.
-
-The approach on the Côte St. Antoine Road is beautiful, especially at
-this season, when the trees surrounding the various pretty homes to some
-of our Montreal gentry are just taking on their autumn tints. At one
-residence especially I noticed the leaves of every color, from varied
-green and red, pale pink, and deep crimson. One small house especially
-attracted my attention, that of Maxime St. Germain—a real old-fashioned
-humble country stone cottage, with the cross standing, a rendezvous in
-old time for prayer when churches were few and far between.
-
-It was told me that this Maxime St. Germain, from a humble habitant, by
-the rise of the value of his property, has risen to great wealth, though
-still living in his humble way, and with his wife and brother still
-occupy the old homestead.
-
-To make one understand the beauty of Moncklands, you must pay it a
-personal visit, and, in default of that, I cannot do better than copy a
-page of its prospectus. I can only say that I was utterly charmed even
-during my hurried visit.
-
-The view is so lovely from the front. The parlors so tastefully, even
-elegantly, furnished, with a fine library in one of them, every token of
-refinement, and the spirit of order prevails with a carefulness of
-detail which must conduce to the comfort of its inmates.
-
-"In this Institution for Young Ladies will be found all the advantages,
-comfort, etc., in harmony with its pre-eminence among the various houses
-of this Order.
-
-In point of situation, salubrity, and picturesque scenery, Villa Maria
-is unrivalled; the grounds are extensive, and comprise a delightful
-grove and a lovely little lake, with gondolas, for the healthful
-amusement of the pupils.
-
-The house, which was formerly the residence of the Governor-General of
-Canada, is fitted up in a style of comfort and in a degree of elegance
-not surpassed by any establishment of the kind. French being the
-language of the Institution, the pupils possess rare facilities for
-acquiring a thorough and practical knowledge of this language. French
-conversation is compulsory, and enters into the competition for the
-highest honors. The course in the English language is thorough and
-complete.
-
-The Governor-General of the Dominion of Canada has graciously given this
-institution a magnificent medal, to be awarded for general proficiency.
-
-Hon. Ed. Murphy, Montreal, a valuable microscope, to the young lady who
-excels in natural history.
-
-Mrs. Ed. Murphy, a magnificent gold medal, for excellence in the art of
-house-keeping.
-
-The Countess de Beaujeu, a rich gold medal, to the young lady who excels
-in French conversation.
-
-The Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of Quebec, a medal for universal
-history.
-
-The Rev. L. Collin, Sup. S. S. S., a gold medal for literature.
-
-The Rev. J. Marechal, a gold medal for religious instruction.
-
-The Hon. P. J. O. Chauveau, ex-minister of Education, a gold medal for
-composition.
-
-The Rev. Mother Sup. General, a gold medal for excellence in deportment.
-
-J. J. McElhone, Esq., of Washington, a gold medal for phonography and
-type-writing.
-
-J. M. McGirr, Esq., Ont., a gold medal for mathematics.
-
-Awarded by an artist, a gold lyre, for proficiency in music.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. LOUIS HOTEL.*
-
-
-I have just returned from Quebec, and must record one of the most
-pleasurable incidents of that visit, namely, my meeting accidentally an
-old acquaintance, the handsome Miss Bouchette, now Lady Shea, and her
-gifted husband, Sir Ambrose Shea. The pleasure of a prolonged interview
-with the latter, and I must say an hour’s conversation with him, is an
-education. He has the happy gift of conveying so much information in
-such easy flowing language, words seem to come specially to express his
-meaning; you learn so much while apparently only chatting. Truly may
-the Bahamas bless the day when he went there, and evolved from the
-noxious weed they complained of (Sisal Fibre) an industry which will be
-its grand prosperity. Already the importance of this great branch of
-commerce has been so great that he has, in view of Canadian interests,
-come on a visit to Ottawa, to effect, if possible, a divergence of the
-trade to Canada instead of permitting our American Cousins to reap all
-the profits. He showed me a plait of fibre about two feet long or more,
-so delicate yet so strong. There is no doubt it will produce a rival to
-the famous manilla rope, and so facile of handling, it may yet be used
-for the manufacture of linen and other articles, for it needs very
-little preparation for use, and that of the simplest kind.
-
-This wonderful plant suddenly sprung into prominent notice. It is a
-weed particularly fertile in the Bahamas. It grows about two feet high,
-and the fibre is the length of the plant, and when extracted by the
-simple process of pressing out, and then wet and dried in the sun, looks
-exactly like horse hair, and so strong one could not break even four
-threads twined together. This Sisal Fibre is creating such a sensation
-now. I need say nothing further on the subject, only wish Sir Ambrose
-and his wife a pleasant trip, and thank Mr. Russell for the particular
-courtesy I received from him. But when will you fail to receive
-attention at the St. Louis! From mine host down to the humblest bell
-boy, all are so watchful for your comfort, so civil in their demeanor,
-it is a pleasure to put up there.
-
-
-
-
- *THE QUEBEC BANK, QUEBEC.*
-
-
-On a recent visit to Quebec I was shown by the present courteous and
-able manager, James Stevenson, Esq., a notice he had written in the
-_Shareholder_, February 22, 1884, and there is so much of interest in it
-for the public, I transmit the valuable information it contains to you,
-my friends. Mr. Stevenson had directed my attention to this article, as
-he had therein so kindly noticed my dear father, the late Charles
-Gethings:—
-
-The Quebec Bank, with the exception of the Bank of Montreal, is the
-oldest bank in the Dominion. On the 9th July, 1818, merchants, and
-others interested in the establishment of a bank in the city of Quebec,
-held a meeting at the Exchange, and drafted articles of association. The
-document is headed, "Articles of Association of the Quebec Bank," and
-consists of twenty-five sections. No. 3 provides that, for the good
-management of the bank, there shall be thirteen directors; No. 6, that
-there shall be no recourse upon the separate property of any
-shareholder. Other sections severally provide for the issue of notes;
-the calling-up of the capital, which is to be £75,000; the term of the
-bank’s existence; and its dissolution. The bank is now in its
-sixty-seventh year. Distinguished men, legislators, lawyers and
-merchants have served on the directorate. During the term of its
-existence it has been exposed to severe financial storms; it has
-weathered them all, preserved its capital intact, and has paid several
-millions in the shape of dividends.
-
-At the first meeting of the shareholders, which was held on the 7th
-September, 1818, the following gentlemen were elected to serve on the
-board of directors, namely, John W. Woolsey, Thomas White, J. McCallum,
-John Jones, Charles Smith, Louis Massue, Jean Langevin, Henry Black, Ph.
-Aubert de Gaspé, W. G. Sheppard, John Goudie, Etienne Lagreux, and
-Benjamin Tremain. Mr. Woolsey was elected president, and Mr. White,
-vice-president; and the Board engaged the services of Noah Freer, as
-cashier. Mr. Freer held a commission as captain in the army; he had
-seen service, and had been military secretary to Sir George Prevost,
-during the war of 1812. Steady-going merchants may have shrugged their
-shoulders and questioned the wisdom and propriety of appointing a
-soldier to such a position; but Captain Freer took kindly to the
-business of civil life. He was accurate, precise, and methodical in all
-he did; and a courteous gentleman in his intercourse with the public.
-The customers of the bank were men of high standing—including the
-leading officials of the capital, namely, the Governor-General, the
-Bishop, the Commander-in-Chief, legislators and lawyers, in addition to
-the regular commercial clientele. Holograph cheques of all its
-principal customers since 1818 have been carefully preserved in the
-bank, a review of which is almost as interesting as a cursory perusal of
-the annals of the city.
-
-That able jurist, the late Honorable Andrew Stuart, was appointed legal
-adviser; and he appears on several occasions to have steadied the
-directors, and guided them into a course of safety.
-
-In the absence of an "Act of Incorporation," the shareholders no doubt
-incurred unlimited liability to the depositors and share-holders; but
-application was made to Parliament for a charter, and an "Act of
-Incorporation," extending the existence of the bank to 1831, was passed
-in 1819. This Act received the Royal assent of George IV. on the 16th
-September, 1822. At the expiration of the term, the charter was
-renewed, and extended to the 1st August, 1836; and, by a subsequent Act,
-to the same date in 1837. That year constitutional government was
-suspended in consequence of the disturbed state of the Province; and all
-the powers and privileges of the bank expired by the effluxion of the
-time limited by the Act of Incorporation. The directors were at a loss
-what course to pursue under the circumstances. They thought seriously
-of winding up the bank. In 1838 the government of the country was
-vested in Sir John Colborne, as Administrator, and a special council
-held in the city of Montreal. The same year, the Habeas Corpus Act was
-suspended, and an ordinance was passed authorizing the incorporated,
-chartered, and other banks in the Province to suspend the redemption of
-their notes in specie till the 1st of June, 1839—limiting the
-circulation of each bank to the amount of its capital stock actually
-paid up. It was further enacted that all specie then held by the bank
-should be retained, and should not be sold, excepting to Her Majesty’s
-Government.
-
-Political disturbances having been quelled, trade revived, and all
-thought of winding up the bank was abandoned. To supply the absence of
-silver, the bank, in addition to its ordinary issue, issued notes of
-15d., or 30 sous, and 2s. 6d., or 3 francs; and the several banks struck
-off a copper currency for the convenience of the public. The suspension
-of specie payments lasted three years.
-
-In the absence of Parliamentary authority for the existence of the bank,
-the directors we readvised to apply for a royal charter, and Captain
-Freer, the cashier, was deputed to proceed to England, for the purpose
-of communicating with the Home Government on the subject. Captain Freer
-was well received by the authorities, and every assistance was rendered
-to him in furtherance of the object of his mission. A royal charter was
-granted with authority to apply to Parliament for a renewal as soon as
-constitutional government should be restored; at the same time the
-authorized capital of the bank was increased to £100,000.
-
-Several changes had taken place in the personnel at the Direction since
-1818. In 1823, Mr. W. Sheppard was elected president; in 1832, Mr.
-Charles Smith; in 1838, Mr. John Fraser; and in 1842, Mr. James Gibb.
-In 1852 Captain Freer retired from the service of the bank upon a
-pension, having held office for thirty-four years. In 1848 Sir N. F.
-Belleau was elected a director. He has since been a constant member of
-the Board, and punctual in his attendance, even while he held the office
-of Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of Quebec. On the death of the
-Honorable Andrew Stuart, the Honorable Henry Black was appointed legal
-adviser; and on his assuming the duties of Judge of the Vice-Admiralty
-Court, he was succeeded by the Honorable George O. Stuart, the present
-Judge of the same Court. J. C. Vannovous, Q.C., held the office till
-his death, and was succeeded by the present legal advisers of the bank,
-Messrs. Andrews, Caron & Andrews.
-
-Mr. Charles Gethings, a man of inflexible integrity of character, was
-appointed to fill the office of cashier, vacated by the retirement of
-Captain Freer, and under his management, and the careful supervision of
-the president, Mr. Gibb, who was rarely absent from the office, the bank
-continued to pay its dividends, namely, in 1853 at the rate of 7 per
-cent. per annum: in 1854, 7 per cent.; 1855, 7 per cent.; 1856, 7 per
-cent.; 1857, 6½ per cent.; 1858, 6 per cent.; 1859, 6½ per cent.; 1860,
-7½.
-
-In 1860 the president, one of the oldest and most esteemed merchants in
-the city, died, deeply regretted by the whole community, and Mr. W. H.
-Anderson, the vice-president, was elected president in his place. The
-following year Mr. Gethings, the cashier, retired upon a pension; and
-Mr. William Dunn, a gentleman well qualified to fill an important place
-in any bank, was appointed his successor. The bank, under his
-management, continued to pay dividends, namely, in 1861, 8 per cent;
-1862, 8 per cent.; 1863, 7½ per cent.; 1864, 7 per cent.
-
-In 1864 Mr. David Douglas Young, a leading and highly esteemed merchant,
-who had served several years on the directorate, was elected president.
-Mr. Dunn, the cashier, retired soon after his appointment, and was
-succeeded by the present general manager, Mr. James Stevenson, in
-December, 1864.
-
-Since the death of Mr. Young, which happened in 1869, the Honorable
-James G. Ross has been president of the bank, and Mr. William Withall,
-vice-president.
-
-Such, in brief, is the history of this old institution, the doors of
-which were opened for business in 1818, in a small house in
-Sault-au-Matelot Street. Some years afterwards, a portion of a
-commodious building erected by the Quebec Fire Insurance Company, in
-Peter Street, was occupied by the bank. But in 1863 the directors
-resolved to have a building of their own, and they purchased from Mr. H.
-Atkinson the site upon which the present handsome banking house is
-built. A certain historical interest attaches to almost every spot and
-locality in Quebec; and to none more so than to that very site. There,
-on a cold stormy December morning, in 1775, when the simultaneous
-assault on Quebec was made by Montgomery and Arnold, stood a small body
-of resolute men, ready to sacrifice their lives in defence of the city.
-While the life of Montgomery was ebbing away with the flow of his blood
-at Cape Diamond, Arnold was advancing, with a comparatively formidable
-force, from St. Roch’s, upon Sault-au-Matelot, a little lane not over
-twelve feet wide, opposite the site of the bank. It is not too much to
-say that the fate of Canada, as a dependency of Great Britain, hung upon
-the issue of the impending contest in the lane. The struggle was a
-desperate one.
-
-It lasted several hours; but the repulse was complete; and Arnold,
-carried off wounded, retired with the remnant of his force upon the
-General Hospital, the head-quarters of the Americans, which they held
-till the siege of Quebec was abandoned in the following month of May,
-1776.
-
-
-
-
- *HORSE BOATS AND ICE BOATS.*
-
-
-Near the site of the old convent just described, we used to embark on a
-horse boat to cross to Levis in summer, and in winter a canoe, managed
-by expert boatmen, who paddled their way through shoal ice, and, on
-reaching any large piece, with wonderful strength and skill raised the
-canoe and pulled it on the ice as we do a sleigh. These boatmen were so
-inured to their work that an accident rarely happened. But there are
-records of a whole canoe full of people being swamped. Fortunately a
-regular service of ice boats exists in winter now, and with rare
-intervals (some extraordinary storm) with as much regularity as the
-summer ferry boats.
-
-Some of my young readers may never have seen a horse boat, so I will
-tell them they looked like some of the very small steamboats, but the
-machinery was put in movement and carried on by horses attached to a
-pole in the centre and walking round and round.
-
-Previous to the year 1857 there were no other means of crossing to Levis
-but by the canoes, when Capt. Semple chartered a boat, which ran up to
-December, as it could only go through floating ice. But an enterprising
-gentleman, the recently deceased Mr. Tibbits, talking over the matter
-with a young relative of mechanical genius, made out plans for
-machinery, had them sent to Montreal, made here and sent on to Quebec,
-were fitted up and at once proved successful, and thus in the year 1862
-started his passenger boat, "The Arctic," which would cut through the
-heaviest ice and became a perfect success. I copy from a newspaper the
-following notice of Mr. Tibbits, who died March 26, 1889:
-
-"On Friday last the mortal remains of the late James Tibbits were
-committed to their last resting place in Mount Hermon Cemetery. For many
-years the deceased was a prominent figure in the mercantile community.
-He was a man of great physical and mental energy, and of unbounded
-enterprise, always willing to risk in public enterprises the money with
-which many of his ventures were crowned. One lasting monument of his
-enterprise and ability remains to us in the excellent ferry service we
-enjoy with the South Shore. He was the first to demonstrate the
-possibility of a steamer cutting its way through the masses of ice which
-obstructed the navigation opposite the city during the winter. Like
-many others of our enterprising merchants, Mr. Tibbits died poor. Quebec
-owes his memory a debt of gratitude, which might well have been slightly
-repaid by a public funeral. It is, however, such a long time since Mr.
-Tibbits resided in the city, the generation that succeeded are hardly
-aware of the services rendered by the deceased. It is not fitting,
-however, that they should be lost sight of."
-
-The ferry boats, summer and winter, land you in close proximity to the
-railroad, and carriages take you west towards St. David or east to St.
-Joseph. After driving up a very steep hill you come to a road branching
-off to the west beside which is the little old English Church and
-Cemetery, the former being now renewed under the supervision of its
-popular pastor, Rev. Mr. Nicholls, grandson of the much-esteemed Bishop
-Mountain. Higher up and last is the Roman Catholic parish church, a
-monument to the zeal and perseverance of the late Rev. Mr. Dalzeil.
-Almost a riot was in the parish when he asked for it to be built of its
-present size, but with far-seeing wisdom he insisted, and now it is
-crowded to overflowing though two other churches have been built in the
-space of the last few years. Levis also possesses a fine college in this
-locality. On the summit of the hill called rue des Marchands is a very
-handsome and spacious store and residence belonging to Mr. Couture, and
-opposite to it is a tiny little building kept in good repair, though
-unused, which Mr. Couture tells you with pride is the shop where he
-first earned the shillings which were to end by making him a
-millionaire. Mr. Edouard Couture carries on the business in the same
-place now, but the Hon. Geo. Couture, Senator, sleeps under a handsome
-obelisk in Levis Cemetery. The noblest monument that exists to his
-memory, however, is the beautiful church, built by money left for that
-purpose in his will, adjoining the splendid hospital, built within about
-ten years, to which he contributed so largely during his lifetime. One
-of the head ladies of the institution (a very old friend, sister-in-law
-of our well-known citizen, Hon. P. Casgrain) took me through this
-building about a week ago, and I was astonished to find it almost filled
-already. The poor, the crippled, old women, young children, have here a
-comfortable home, with delightful surroundings, and on a height and with
-a view of the Citadel, Quebec.
-
-When Mère St. Monique asked me to go and visit the Catacombs under the
-church, I decidedly objected, but Josephte, as I called her in our
-youth, always would have her way, and I am glad she did so here, for I
-do not know whether similar places for burial are existent elsewhere in
-this country or only a new creation in Canada, but I am glad I went into
-them. This seems to be the perfection of burying. Leading me through a
-long light passage under the church, we came to a very heavy iron door;
-then on its being opened a second appeared with its blank emblems and
-death’s head and cross bones, sufficiently indicative of where we were
-going. Entering this door Mère St. Monique struck a light, and we found
-ourselves in a fire-proof brick chamber and passages. On every side
-shelves to hold one coffin. There is only one occupant so far—Mr.
-Gingras—but there are places for ninety. The coffin is placed on a
-shelf just large enough, then masoned up, and the name put on the
-masonry. A great improvement on old-fashioned vaults, as all
-possibility of disturbance is precluded and no danger from foul air.
-This building is under the High Altar, so to a devout Roman Catholic
-much of the feeling of gloom is taken away. A few miles west is St.
-David’s Church, a pretty new edifice, and further on at the village of
-St. Romuald, St. Romuald’s Church, so filled with choice paintings and
-works of art by its late Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Saxe, it has become quite
-a worthy show place for our sight-seeing American friends. The Rev. Mr.
-Saxe was of such clever wit and genial presence, he exercised great
-influence over those with whom he came in contact. I remember saying
-how proud his parishioners must be of this lovely little edifice. "They
-well may be," he said, "it has hardly cost them anything for all these
-works of art. I made the old country, that could afford it, give them,
-you know. I travelled in Europe for contributions, and impressed on
-each community how necessary it was that each city should give of its
-best—something to redound to its own credit, and I got it," the old
-gentleman said with a merry twinkle in his eye. So much, my friends,
-for tact and a knowledge of human nature.
-
-
-
-
- *BEAUMONT—ST. THOMAS.*
-
-
-Previous to the year 1853, or thereabouts, there was no railroad below
-Quebec, and vehicles were the only means of transport; but when time and
-means permit, it is surely the most agreeable of all ways of travelling.
-We were frequent visitors at Crane Island, and our downward drive to St.
-Thomas, where we took sail boat to cross, were in the habit of stopping
-at various way-side houses, not inns, simply neat commodious places
-where we were always expected and welcomed, and sure of a meal and bed.
-One of these was the Fraser House at Beaumont: it still exists, but
-sadly deteriorated, and occupied by a French farmer and family. It is a
-very long low house in a very small quiet country village, prettily
-situated with a view of the St. Lawrence.
-
-On one occasion my husband and myself drove up to the door. "Welcome!"
-(we were frequent visitors) "but it is well you did not come a few days
-sooner. Who do you think has just left? Lord and Lady Elgin,"—and I
-forget whether she said any children. "Come, and I’ll show you the room
-as I arranged it for Lady Elgin." If you have never, my readers, seen a
-genuine old-fashioned habitant bedstead, I would almost fail to impress
-you with its height; you could not possibly get into it without standing
-on a chair, and two of these were placed side by side, taking in one
-whole side of a room, with the long white curtains pendant from a rod
-attached to the ceiling. I can hardly think of it now without smiling.
-Of course, it must have been for the novelty of the thing that Lady
-Elgin used it instead of having one brought from Quebec. Perhaps one
-gets so tired of formality and grandeur, a change becomes a welcome
-relief. We said we had but twenty minutes to stay, and must have lunch
-at once. In about ten minutes we had a most delicious fricassee of
-chicken in white sauce. On complimenting Mrs. Fraser, she said, "I
-learnt how to make that from Lord Elgin’s cook, and was I not smart?
-those chickens were running about when you came." That spoilt all,
-ah—if she only had not told us? There are numerous pretty villages all
-along the south shore. None prettier than that of St. Michel, adjacent
-to Beaumont. It much resembles Kamouraska, though much prettier as the
-foliage is so lovely.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. MICHEL.*
-
-
-St. Michel is a delightful summer residence, about fifteen miles from
-Quebec, reached directly by steamer every day, or by railroad a few
-miles from the village.
-
-We resided there for a couple of years, and then made the acquaintance
-of the Rev. Mr. Drolet, who with his mother and sisters tendered us such
-kindly hospitality. The Parsonage became to all of us a Maison
-Paternelle, for the family all spoke English as well as French, and the
-genial curé, a very clever and devoted priest, was in his home an
-admirable host. I shall have occasion elsewhere to speak of him. I
-will conclude this article with a few verses I found lately, written on
-the spur of the moment from the circumstance of one of the ladies nearly
-falling through a trap door into the cellar of the dining-room of the
-old-fashioned house we then occupied.
-
-
-
-
- *A CHRONICLE OF ST. MICHEL.*
-
-
- A REMEMBRANCE OF HAPPY DAYS.
-
- It was a winter evening,
- The moon was shining bright,
- When from a lady’s parlor
- Came sounds of laughter light.
- But, suddenly, the scene is changed,
- There’s heard a warning shriek,
- And borne upon the air the words,
- "Oh! dear, will no one speak?"
- Unheeding trap, just at her feet,
- Comes with majestic mien
- A damsel of sweet presence,
- And smiling all serene.
- Her eyes are like the glowworm,
- Her cheeks like damask rose,
- She holds her head so loftily,
- She looks not at her toes;
- When, roused from contemplation sweet
- Of bottles ale and stout,
- A head above the trap appears—
- "What’s all this row about?
- I see, I see, Miss Flora, dear,
- You’d all but tumbled down;
- One further step, and you’d have fall’n
- On my unlucky crown.
- Oh! had you tumbled on my head
- In yonder cellar well,
- We now, alas, been both quite dead"—
- A sad old tale to tell.
- How youth and beauty often fall
- Into some snare unseen,
- As so hath chanced in many a day
- And yet full oft I ween,
- While thoughtless youth with eager step
- Pursues its heedless way.
-
- MORAL.
-
- Then damsels all who hear my tale
- Hold not your heads so high,
- A downward glance give now and then,
- Hid dangers to descry.
-
-
-We arrive at St. Thomas after a forty miles drive, and stay over, if the
-tide does not serve for coming, at Madame F.’s well-known hotel—not far
-from which is the residences of the late Sir Etienne Taché and Mr.
-Bender, father of the present well-known Boston physician, Dr. Bender.
-
-A short distance from here is the house now occupied by E. P. Bender,
-formerly owned by Mr. William Patton, a splendid specimen of an English
-gentleman. A lumber merchant, doing a large business with ample means,
-his house was the home of generous hospitality. It is thirty years
-since I visited it or more—it then gave you an idea of one of England’s
-far-famed country homes; Everything handsome, well ordered grounds, its
-steel grates (then a novelty), and handsome paperings, a host so
-courteous, his wife a refined lady of the old school—all appeared to
-promise long years of happiness to its inmates, when in a day, alas! all
-was changed. Mr. Patton was most energetic in his efforts to hasten the
-building of the railroad from Quebec to St. Thomas, and went into town
-to see Messrs. Morton, Peto & Brassey, when he met his fate.
-Overheated by his exertions, he lay down to rest opposite an open window
-facing the St. Lawrence, a gale sprung up, he got a chill, and in
-twenty-four hours he was dead, of inflammation, before his wife could
-reach him, and yet she arrived almost in time, due to a mysterious
-warning of some kind, I forget what it was—she told me of it herself.
-
-Sitting quietly in her room she heard or saw something, and, convinced
-that her husband needed her, she ordered a carriage, and, despite all
-remonstrance, drove all night, and passed in the darkness the carriage
-sent for her, and arrived in the grey dawn of morning to find her
-husband just dead.
-
-How many such unaccountable occurrences happen. I could tell of at
-least six such experiences in my own history. My theory is this, that
-under certain conditions thought meets thought, and so mesmerically
-impresses on the loved one its own yearnings and wishes.
-
-Previous to Mr. Patton’s purchasing it, this house had been occupied by
-several families of note, the De Beaujeus, Olivas, etc. It was
-purchased a few years since by E. P. Bender, Esq., who now occupies it
-with his family.
-
-
-
-
- *SECOND VISIT TO ROBERVAL,
- LAKE ST. JOHN.*
-
-
-I was unfortunately prevented from visiting Roberval until late in the
-season—in fact, only a few weeks before the hotel closed—but I saw
-enough to confirm my first impressions as to its desirability as a
-summer resort for people who really need to recuperate after the wear
-and tear of town life. It was late in August, a cold spell was on; we
-arrived per railroad on Pullman car, which brings you to the very gate
-of the hotel premises. A dull heavy rain came down as we got off the
-cars, but what of that? you are ushered into a hallway where burns a
-generous grate fire. Courteous officials greet you and inquire your
-wants. Shown to a comfortable bedroom, and then to a supper as good in
-quality as meals served in most town hotels, with excellent attendance,
-you fancy you are in fairy land, as, gazing on the wild country around,
-you remember that this locality a few years ago was not even inhabited
-by farmers, but all was bush. Ushered into the ladies’ parlor you are
-greeted by a most winning hostess, Mrs. Scott, daughter of the Honorable
-Mr. Shehyn, who, residing here at present with her children, does the
-honors, and welcomes you as if to her own private parlor. The season
-was so nearly over there were comparatively few guests, but those of the
-most pleasant—Dr. and Mrs. Lovely, Rev. Mr. —— and his wife, and several
-members of the Beemer family, who by their musical talents contributed
-largely to our enjoyment. Roberval I am sure has a grand future before
-it. Dr. Lovely, one of the most eminent physicians of the United States,
-assured me that he had discovered coal-oil there, not five miles from
-the hotel, and also some stone (I forget what) of which he was taking
-specimens away with him. He said if it was what he thought, it would
-indeed be a bonanza.
-
-It appears to me that Roberval would be especially beneficial for those
-suffering from nervous exhaustion or debility, or tendency to
-consumption. The pure mountain air, the quiet, the absence of rush and
-excitement, must surely be most grateful to such parties, while for
-those who want a livelier existence, the trips in excursion steam-boats,
-the visits to various other fishing grounds, the power of jumping on the
-railroad that comes to your door and whirls you off for a few hours to
-other lakes, is a matter not to be lost sight of. Added to the perfect
-inside comfort of this hotel—baths on your bedroom flat—the immense
-piazza runs the full length of the building, affording in wet weather an
-excellent promenade, with a view of the lovely lake, and what I much
-appreciated was the absence of the horrid gong calling you to meals.
-Here you are told the time for meals, and if you so desire a civil
-waiter calls you at the hour you name, but the fearful din that
-elsewhere rouses you from your pet morning sleep is absent.
-
-Entering the ladies’ parlor in the evening you feel almost that you are
-in a private house. A bright fire burns in an open grate. Some fair
-lady is employing her talents at the piano in your service, and you
-enjoy some really good music, when one of the ladies asks are you to
-have a little dance or a small game of cards—the first at once, the
-latter when we are tired. After a short time small tables are brought
-in, the guests group into little coteries, each one retires when he
-will, after enjoying all the comforts of a home with the liberty of an
-hotel.
-
-I must not forget to state that at the village, about a mile from the
-hotel, is a Roman Catholic Church and fine Ursuline Convent, a
-delightful boarding school for young ladies, who enjoy boating every day
-and pleasant little trips to an island now belonging to the Nuns. There
-is also a telegraph in the hotel, and any amount of vehicles and horses
-and boats for visitors—also cheaper boarding houses in the village for
-those who require them.
-
-During the few days I stayed there, one or two funny incidents occurred.
-On one occasion I had an old man to drive me, when I said, "I hope it
-will not rain before we get home." "I hope it won’t, indeed," he said,
-"I am not dry yet since yesterday." "How is that?" I asked. Said he: "I
-was out with that party from the hotel who when out fishing were so
-drenched, and the storm being so great I stayed by the hotel kitchen
-fire instead of going home to change; but, madame," as a sudden thought
-struck him, "you live at the hotel, is there a doctor living there?"
-Having been there only a few hours, I did not know, but inquired why he
-asked. "The fact is, I hear that when people come from Louisiana or
-Paris, a party of ten always brings a doctor with them" (a party
-recently arrived just numbering ten), "and hearing that I had a son ill,
-one gentleman said if I would take him to see my son or bring my son to
-him, he would try and cure him." "Well," I asked, "have you done so?"
-"But no," he said, "he is English." (I spoke in French and he thought I
-was a French Canadian.) "What difference would that make?" "Why,
-madame, do you think the English know anything?" "Well," I said,
-"perhaps a little; you might try the doctor." At the same time I was
-quite prepared to hear that he was a victim of some practical joke from
-his statement that every ten persons coming from Louisiana or Paris
-brought a doctor with them; I little expected the dénouement. "Oh! my
-son would not see him at all. He said, ’father, do you wish me to die
-at once?’ But, madame, I would not have minded taking him to the doctor
-myself. You don’t think that even though English he would have given
-him something to kill him at once?" "Oh! no," I answered, "I am sure he
-would not do that." But my story does not end here. On entering the
-parlor, where several were seated, I addressed a peculiarly pleasant
-lady near me, and began to narrate for their benefit my conversation
-with the old driver, when I noticed my hearer give a kind of warning
-glance: and then she went off into a merry peal of laughter as the door
-opened and a gentleman popped in his head. "Come here, my dear, learn a
-lesson of humility. This, my dear lady, is my husband, Dr. Lovely" (I
-have learned since that he is one of the most well-known of American
-physicians); "he is the Englishman, who can’t know anything."
-
-The doctor, who enjoyed the joke, engaged the same driver next day to
-have his fun as much as anything. After a good deal of skirmishing, he
-elicited all from the old coachman, who, however, said, though English,
-if Dr. L—— was a Roman Catholic, he might induce his son to trust him,
-as he believed that the little bottles he showed him really contained
-_des remèdes_. I know that the doctor explained to him that, though not
-a Roman Catholic, he attended nearly all the members of that
-denomination in the United States, and there was some kind of
-negotiation going on when I left. They may have come to terms, and the
-boy cured, despite himself. Perhaps this poor old chap, living for many
-years utterly isolated from civilization, might have the same horror of
-_Les terribles Anglais_ that the English peasantry had of Napoleon the
-First, who, when children were refractory, were threatened to be given
-to ’Bonaparte. And, now, as some of our English people may be hard on
-this old French-Canadian, I must tell you that the clergyman’s wife,
-attached to some very prominent hospital in one of the large cities of
-the United States, said they came across sometimes very odd cases, and
-instanced that of a patient coming to the hospital, and, being ordered
-to take a bath, said he had never taken a bath in his life, and must go
-home and consult his wife. He went and never returned!!! This, in one
-of the largest cities of America. So don’t too much despise the old
-backwoodsman’s prejudice. As Mrs. Lovely most kindly invited me to pay
-her a visit, I may yet tell you more about this very true tale.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. LEON SPRINGS.*
-
-
-It is fully fifty years ago since my father took me to Three Rivers en
-route for St. Leon Springs. We were most hospitably received by Mr.
-Lajoie (father of the present dry goods merchant of Three Rivers), and
-his good lady, and Mr. Faucher de St. Maurice, father of the present
-gentleman of the same name. Of the party were, I think, Mr. Gingras,
-whose son, brother-in-law of Mr. Dorion, recently deceased, was the
-first I think to establish the reputation of these waters. After a
-sumptuous repast at Mr. Lajoie’s, we were driven to St. Leon Springs,
-and this us what I remember of it then: a steep sandy hill, up which was
-walking a pale, thin young lady, whom my father pointed out to me as
-Miss G——; that lady has been in bed seven years, you see her walking
-now; whether the cure was permanent or not I have no means of
-ascertaining, but Mr. Campbell, late proprietor of St. Leon Springs,
-told me only two weeks since that he remembered Miss G—— perfectly. Mr.
-Campbell further told me since that his father had noticed the cattle
-drinking at this spring, and finding it had a peculiar taste, had it
-analyzed, and gave to the public this boon for the afflicted, and
-health-preserving drink for the sick. We had tea that day at the
-Springs on a deal table, without table-cloth, seated on wooden benches,
-while carpenters were putting the roof on a large building we sat in. I
-presume this was the first hotel, rather a contrast to that of the
-present day, which is yearly crowded with an increased number of
-fashionable visitors from all parts of the Dominion, in search of health
-or amusement. This hotel has been very lately enlarged and fitted up
-with every modern convenience. Parties leaving Montreal by the Canadian
-Pacific Railroad, and getting off at Louiseville, will find vehicles
-waiting to take them to St. Leon Springs.
-
-This lady just alluded to, Miss G——, was one of those peculiar patients
-one hears of in a lifetime, and, as all her near relatives are dead and
-few will recognize the initial, I will inform my readers that Dr. A——,
-one of my father’s physicians (now deceased), told me that she was
-afflicted with a kind of fit—cataleptic, I think, they called it—when
-she fell into a state so closely resembling death that two of Quebec’s
-most prominent medical men were about to perform a post-mortem
-examination on her, when the slight quiver of an eyelid proved her still
-alive, and on her recovering she told them that, though unable to make
-the slightest motion, she had heard and seen all that had passed, and
-Dr. A—— was exceedingly indignant that such a subject should have been
-sent to him as an ordinary patient, as the same thing might have
-occurred again. He was, if I mistake not, then residing in Halifax and
-he told me that all the instructions he received were to provide a
-suitable lodging for a nervous patient, who could afford to pay well for
-a quiet private residence. Accordingly, Dr. A—— persuaded a well-to-do
-Scotch farmer to take her as a boarder. For a time all went well,
-though she would go off into a sort of trance, when she lay apparently
-dead for perhaps three days and returned to consciousness, often
-cognizant of what had occurred during her semi-deathlike state. But on
-one occasion her second sight, if you can so term it, was so great, she
-terrified the old people so, they begged the doctor to remove her,
-saying she was no canny. The facts were these:—On one occasion Miss G——
-fell into her cataleptic state, and the doctor not expecting her to
-revive before a certain time, said he would not call till the following
-Thursday. But on the Tuesday, receiving a summons from a very old
-patient, twenty miles distant, he decided on calling on her _en route_.
-The weather being rainy, he asked for a covered vehicle, and the only
-one procurable was a shabby, very old-fashioned waggon. In the
-meantime, Miss G—— awoke from her trance, and said, "the doctor is
-coming." "No," said the mistress of the house; "he is not coming till
-Thursday." "He is coming now," said Miss G——, "he is at the red gate"
-(a gate some distance from the back of the house, and too far for any
-sound to reach)—"what a funny carriage he has." When he really drove up
-in this queer-looking vehicle, the landlady was so scared, she uttered
-that exclamation, "she is no canny," and insisted that board should be
-taken elsewhere. I offer no explanation—let the savants do that—I only
-narrate facts I vouch for.
-
-
-
-
- *MY SECOND VISIT TO ST. LEON SPRINGS.*
-
-
-Going by the Canadian Pacific Railroad to Louiseville, we took a trap
-awaiting at the station, and, after a drive over a rather pretty country
-road, arrived at St. Leon Springs. Alas! the season was over, only Mr.
-Thomas and his son, and Mr. Langlois, were there, and a few servants.
-Nevertheless, we saw enough to convince us what a delightful health
-resort this must be in summer. When I say health resort, I do not mean
-pleasure resort, though there is plenty of amusement for reasonable
-people, who would find pleasant companionship, dancing, music, drives,
-croquet, lawn-tennis sufficient for summer heat; but, we speak now of
-St. Leon Springs as a retreat for the really ill or convalescent, and as
-such it must simply be perfection. A large hotel, nicely kept, numerous
-bath-rooms, all fitted up with an abundant supply of St. Leon water for
-bathing, excellent meals, well-cooked and nicely served, as we saw even
-during our brief and unexpected stay (I have never eaten such perfect
-home-made bread as there), with the drinking of these health-giving
-waters, must surely be of incalculable benefit. Twitting Mr. Langlois
-on the supposition that perhaps in cities the St. Leon water is in part
-manufactured, Mr. Langlois told us a funny incident. He said, I think it
-was in Toronto, he overheard some one saying, as his trucks came in
-loaded with barrels: "I wonder how much of this is manufactured?" On
-the impulse of the moment, Mr. L—— gave a hint to the carters to dump
-the casks on the pavement instead of taking them through the yard.
-
-As anticipated, a policeman came up and remonstrated on impeding the
-sidewalk. Soon a crowd gathered. Just what Mr. L—— desired. When
-spoken to, he said: "Of course, it was an oversight, the water should
-have been taken into the yard; but as it was there, he would like to
-prove to the people assembled how genuine was the water, by tapping
-several barrels, and, igniting with a match the gas, said: "My friends,
-can any of you manufacture gas in water to burn like this?" Mr. L—— is
-not by any means a man you would credit with being a religious
-enthusiast; but I will never forget the solemnity of the act, as,
-raising his hand towards Heaven, he uttered these words: "He who made
-these waters can alone make the gas."
-
-Mr. Thomas, a wealthy gentleman, with his son, for health and
-occupation, takes the management here. The latter, quite a sport, drove
-us with his blood horses to the station, at a pace that made me tremble.
-There a grand old-fashioned coach with four spanking horses waits at the
-railroad station to drive you in style to the hotel. Come and try them,
-my fast American friends. I will conscientiously stick to the
-old-fashioned one-horse buckboard—not elegant and hardly comfortable,
-but very safe.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. RAYMOND.*
-
-
-About eight years ago my dear husband and myself took rooms for the
-summer with a Mr. Ignace Déry, a carpenter. The house, a very large one
-of many buildings, was prettily situated on the banks of the river.
-Facing the house an immense barn indicated the prosperity of the farm.
-In course of conversation I remarked to Mr. D. how astonished I was to
-find such a handsome church, fine shops, and a musical choir, with a
-thriving village, in a place we had only heard of a few years before.
-"You will be more surprised, dear lady," he said, "when I inform you
-that I came here fifty years ago, a boy of fifteen, against my people’s
-will, with another cousin, and broke the first road in what was all then
-bush." "How did you hear of this place at all?" "Well, from the
-Indians, and I went out with the surveyors and thought what a splendid
-place it was for a settlement, and said so, but my father would not hear
-of it. However, one day, my cousin, Joseph Déry, said to me after
-church, ’Have you decided on coming to squat or take possession and make
-an opening on these lands?’ ’My family will not hear of it,’ I
-answered. ’Well, then, come without their leave; if they see you
-succeed, they will be quite satisfied.’" So Déry and his cousin started
-off right after mass, the equipment of the former being a loaf of bread
-and piece of pork procured from his sister, whom he let into the secret,
-about half a bag of potatoes for seed, a hatchet, and his working
-clothes and a little salt. The boys walked out about fifteen miles: the
-one, my friend Déry, remained at the east end, his cousin at the west.
-These two houses now form the boundary in a certain measure of the
-village of St. Raymond. Mr. Déry told me his first occupation was to
-plant some potatoes, then build a small hut, and he said for food he had
-only to dip a line into the river back of the site of his house to
-procure all the fish he needed. On this he lived, with fruit and a
-little flour procured later. Such was the commencement of this
-prosperous village. The cousin, Joseph Déry, still kept a few years ago
-intact his first cottage, though building a comfortable house beside it.
-
-
-
- ANOTHER PIONEER
-
-
-In the autumn we moved for a month nearer the village, and occupied the
-house owned by Mr. Beaupré. It was a commodious dwelling, neatly
-furnished, and on my remarking a rather nice bureau in my room, and
-inquiring if they had a cabinet-maker in the village, my landlady
-answered, "Oh! my husband made that himself, and, though never
-apprenticed to any trade, built nearly the whole of this house himself."
-and then the old gentleman, pointing to the other side of the river,
-said, "Do you notice, madame, that clump of trees; well, beneath that
-rock is a cavern which I discovered and made a residence of when, as a
-boy of thirteen, I walked from St. Augustine across the country to
-there, to see what I could do for myself. I had no near relations, and
-determined if possible, by squatting, to get a home. I built a
-projecting porch, and lived for many a month in that cavern. I earned
-my living by doing odd jobs for the farmers, who came from some
-distance, and helped to row them over in a scow to St. Raymond proper,
-now the village, to get their horses shod, and while waiting for their
-return, noticed how the blacksmiths worked; then it occurred to me how
-well a blacksmith would do on my side of the river (thus saving the
-crossing), and I commenced to learn, and here I am, the master of a
-comfortable home and several farms"—the reward of energy and favorable
-circumstances, which brought the railroad to their very doors, and with
-large stores opening for the supply of the railroad employees, and the
-influx of summer visitors, has made the desert blossom like a rose, and
-a charming village (the intersecting waters spanned by a pretty bridge),
-spring in a few years from the bush.
-
-Mr. Panet, advocate, and his charming wife are residents here. Mr. P.,
-representative and nephew of Mrs. Shakspeare, wife of General
-Shakspeare, daughter of Bernard Panet, of old Quebec memory.
-
-
-
- OCTOBER 28, 1890.
-
-
-I have just returned from St. Raymond and learnt some additional facts
-anent the Dérys I found interesting, and detail them for public benefit.
-The daughter-in-law of Joseph Déry said her father-in-law was the first,
-except sportsmen and Indians, who had ever been to St. Raymond; a little
-pathway through the woods was their inroad. He started to find the
-River St. Anne, which runs through St. Raymond; he found his walk very
-fatiguing from Lorette, and arriving at the Cape, under which runs the
-St. John railway now, was delighted to find he was nearing his
-destination. He named the hill Cap Joyeuse, which name it still bears.
-On wishing to see the first cabin he had built, she said, by recent
-surveys, it would be situated in the middle of the river, as the waters
-of the St Anne river had gradually washed the bank away. The end of the
-first cottage built is still extant, every plank used in it being sawed
-by hand, and the portrait of Mr. Joseph Déry hangs on its walls.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. AUGUSTIN,*
-
- ABOUT 15 MILES WEST OF QUEBEC.
-
-
-I do not know that I ever heard much of St. Augustin in my earlier days,
-except as the residence of Mr. Gale, an oldtime school master, who fixed
-his residence there, and taught many of the (after) prominent men of
-Quebec. His wife, a prim little lady of wax-doll complexion and flaxen
-hair done up in frizzes, was quite a character as well as her husband.
-A very kind-hearted little lady she was, with a peculiar gift of
-hospitality, and her cakes and home-made wine were of wide renown. Mr.
-Gale had a taste for antiquities; a small museum, in great part
-contributions of curiosities, the gifts of his admiring scholars, was
-one of his cherished parlor ornaments.
-
-His was a school of the _ancien régime_, but in its best sense, though
-religiously a day was appointed for the pulling out of teeth, those for
-administering sulphur and molasses and other time-honored medicines,
-happily or unhappily exploded.
-
-Nevertheless, Mr. Gale’s was a thoroughly comfortable home, and his
-students had a true regard for himself and good wife, testified often in
-later years by his _anciens élèves_ constantly sending him contributions
-of rare articles to add to his collection.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. ANDRÉ—NEXT PARISH BELOW KAMOURASKA.*
-
- "In the days when we went gipseying a long time ago."
-
-
-About seventy-five years ago or more a wealthy Englishman, John S.
-Campbell, came out from the old country and commenced a large business
-in lumber and ship building at the part of St. André called Pointe
-Sèche. Here he built a beautiful residence with every luxury and
-appliances then known, splendid walks in the shrubbery, beautiful
-gardens, and even a residence for a physician, as at that time there was
-a great deal of ship fever, and he employed a great number of workmen in
-his ship building and other mercantile business. He brought out his
-wife (with her lady’s maid), who, accustomed to society life, must have
-been indeed startled at the contrast of her surroundings, for here she
-was virtually in a wilderness. It is true that previous to the railroad
-from Quebec to the lower ports, these same villages had much more life
-in a business point than to-day, for then all travellers stopped at the
-wayside inns, and there being no facilities for going or coming from
-Quebec, the shopkeepers who brought down in their schooners goods at
-certain seasons of the year did a fine business, and really large
-fortunes were made by many: an apt illustration of the truth of the
-vulgar old proverb, "that what is one man’s meat is another man’s
-poison," for the railroad, which is such a boon to the farmers and those
-bordering its route, has proved utterly destructive to the old-fashioned
-inns and shops on the old route, for the transfer being solely by
-vehicles, a regular influx of travellers was expected and received, thus
-giving life to the village and current cash.
-
-Mr. J. S. Campbell and his lady becoming after some years thoroughly
-disgusted, abandoned the place, and so swiftly, I many years after,
-about forty years ago, found a book belonging to the family in the
-disused dining-room. I heard from one of the family to-day who own this
-lovely property now, and use it as a summer residence (Mrs. Rankin of
-Dorchester street), that a caretaker had been left in charge of the
-property; if so, his conscience must have been very lax, for it was the
-custom of all those giving picnics at Kamouraska, who wished to do so,
-to use the house as well as the grounds, and to simply walk in at open
-doors and take temporary possession. Well, on one occasion my
-father-in-law’s family had a kind of picnic, but, though going up to the
-Campbell grounds, had brought their provisions to a neat little wayside
-inn a short distance, from the mill and wharf built by the aforesaid J.
-S. Campbell; and as I always preferred a quiet read to those excursions
-(I fear I am naturally rather lazy), I said I would await their return
-at the small hotel—its quiet and cleanliness were very inviting. "But,"
-said Mr. McP. (I think I hear the words as he addressed me often in
-fun), "Mistress Charlotte, if you stay behind, you are responsible for
-the dinner." I promised in good faith, and with a firm resolve of doing
-my duty, that all should be in order on their return, and, telling the
-landlady at what hour lunch must be ready, made arrangements for an hour
-of delightful repose, by ensconcing myself into the most cosy of sofas
-with an interesting novel. As the old grandmother’s clock tolled forth
-the midday hour, it struck me I had better see how the dinner was
-progressing for the hungry folks expected soon. Fortunately, I did not
-delay, for, to my dismay, I found the lamb-chops put to boil, and the
-green peas frying in the frying-pan. By hastily changing their
-positions, I managed matters so as to disguise my carelessness, and so
-all was well that ends well.
-
-A thoroughly respectable house like the Campbell House, of Pointe Sèche,
-could not be without its ghost, and it’s doubly guaranteed by having two
-of them: one a lady who is heard to moan and sob and say she was shut up
-from every one (it is presumed Mrs. C., who, instead of dying of ennui
-and country fare, took the more sensible plan of returning to England);
-the other, the apparition of a gentleman, supposed to have been murdered
-because he disappeared—a rejected suitor put on board a vessel by Mr. C.
-for making too violent love to a cousin and quarrelling with a more
-favored lover. I have exorcised several ghosts already, and would like
-to try my observations on those inhabitants of a higher, or, more
-likely, our earthly sphere, to whom the unoccupancy of this fine mansion
-might be a convenience.
-
-
-
-
- *LES EBOULEMENTS.*
-
-
-So called from the tremblings of constant earthquakes, which with
-apparent volcanic action has thrown up hill after hill so steep. I can
-compare the ascent and descent to nothing else but a winter sleighing
-slide. In fact, the hills are almost perpendicular, and almost
-inaccessible to a nervous party, who in descending feels as if he must
-fall on the horse’s tail, and ascending drop out of the cart behind.
-Yet to the young and active it is a wild, lovely summer resort, its
-unusual scenery presenting a most pleasurable and novel spectacle. In
-fact, my friends, if you have a desire to visit Switzerland and cannot
-compass it, just go to Les Eboulements, and very little imagination will
-help you to transport yourself there. Cradled in mist, perched on some
-rocky elevation, with the simple people about you, you can easily deem
-yourself in the land of William Tell. But, did I say simple? yes, with
-a spice of modern craft, for I well remember a friend being ill asking
-me, as it was a non-licensed place, to ask the landlady for a little
-stimulant of any kind, as she might give it to me instead of a
-gentleman. The answer to my demand was the query, "What would you
-have?" "Well, if possible, port wine," and a bottle of excellent
-quality was forthcoming, and also the remark, "if more is required, in
-fact, as much as is necessary can be obtained. We have plenty for our
-own use." As these people were great fish traders with St. Pierre
-Miquelon, in view of recent developments as to the smuggling business I
-have my thoughts, but as I believe in free trade between all nations,
-and I should think it no sin to smuggle myself, I do not condemn them.
-
-Apropos of smuggling, a funny incident came under my observation. A
-young married cousin some years ago lived on the border dividing Canada
-from the United States, and while (with the fresh memory of the Fenian
-raids) countenanced, as was said, by the Americans, expressed great
-dislike to Brother Jonathan. He dubbed her a thorough Yankee, and she
-proved herself a very cute one. Well, these ladies had been accustomed
-under lax custom house discipline to drive over to St. Albans and
-purchase many effects, cotton especially, at a very much less price than
-on Canadian soil, and were very indignant when a new official was
-appointed, who openly boasted that no tricks would be played upon him.
-That was enough for my sprightly cousin. She arranged a plan with her
-sister, went over in a light waggon, and when stopped at the frontier by
-the aforesaid young clerk on her return, who, with many apologies,
-requested leave to search her vehicle, answered in a tone of impatience,
-"Well, search my waggon as much as you please, but don’t wake my baby."
-She held in her arms a good-sized baby in long clothes, a heavy veil
-covering the face. The official searched and found nothing contraband.
-He was, however, very much disgusted to hear later that the baby was a
-mass of dress and cotton goods, and that Mrs. K., as she walked up and
-down the platform soothing her supposed infant, was inwardly chuckling
-over her clever trick played on the too confident custom house clerk.
-
-
-
-
- *SOCIETY IN QUEBEC FIFTY YEARS AGO.*
-
-
-Fifty years ago Quebec was a prominent military station, and from that
-circumstance, as well as the fact that it counted amongst its members so
-many of the truly good old French families of the _ancienne noblesse_,
-there was then none of that petty jealousy between French and English.
-They had fought valiantly, but when peace was declared they shook hands
-heartily and became friends. The English reserve was tempered by French
-suavity, and as Captain Warburton, in his Stadacona _Feuilleton_, says,
-"There were such a number of pretty girls in Quebec, and so attractive,
-such pleasant manners, combining maidenly reserve with refined
-out-spokenness, they were irresistible, and some English mammas, it was
-said, murmured sadly when they heard their darling sons were to be sent
-to Canada, fearing they would be effectually captured, as they certainly
-would be, in the silken but enduring nets of the fair demoiselles;
-however, they must have been satisfied eventually, for the ladies of
-whom the military gentlemen deprived us of have done credit to their
-native city."
-
-Old Quebecers will remember Miss L., wife of General Elliot; Miss A.,
-wife of General Pipon; Miss P., wife of General Shakspeare, and dozens
-of others; but I have before me at least twenty beautiful and
-accomplished ladies, our society belles who accompanied the red coats to
-England. What a different aspect Quebec wore when the military were
-first taken away! it seemed as if the silence of death reigned, and why
-all should have been taken has ever been an unanswered question.
-
-Of people prominent in society in my early days were Mr. Lemesurier,
-Judge McCord, Mr. Berthelot (he gave me a French grammar, I remember, he
-had published; he was father-in-law of Sir Louis LaFontaine), Mr.
-Faribault, the Hon. John Malcolm Fraser, Mr. Symes, whose pretty and
-amiable daughter married the son of the Empress Eugenie’s trusty friend,
-the Marquis de Bassano.
-
-Besides the house occupied by the Hon. George Primrose, there was at
-that time but one small house used by the military, and now the site of
-the splendid residence of the Hon. Mr. Thibodeau, facing the Governor’s
-garden. At the intersecting street facing the river is the old Langham
-house, still occupied by her grand-daughter, Mrs. T.; a few doors from
-there the residence of Chief Justice Bowen, whose ladies entertained a
-great deal, and one of whose daughters was the wife of the late Rev. Mr.
-Houseman.
-
-We will take a skip now to where Palace gate formerly stood, and watch
-G. H. Parke, Esq., a noted whip (father of Dr. Parke), and see him guide
-his tandem through one of the sally-ports to the houses of the members
-of the tandem, who could in vain hope to follow him. Mr. P., who
-delighted in guiding the club through most intricate places, had taken
-the measure of the sally-port and knew his cariole would pass through,
-and thus triumphantly headed the others, who feared to follow him.
-Should he read this account of his old exploit, I am sure it would yet
-bring up a smile.
-
-The remembrance of this feat recalls a story I have heard of the time of
-the noted Chamberlain gang. There were no houses at one time between
-the grand house here and a large one opposite St. Patrick’s church, at
-that time occupied by Miss or Mrs. M., an elderly lady of ample means,
-who occupied the present residence of J. Scott, Esq., formerly the home
-of Mr. Faucher de St. Maurice. This Chamberlain was the leader of a
-notorious gang, who for some time held Quebec in a state of terror;
-their rapacity, cruelty and audacity exceeded anything ever before seen,
-and they continued their course with impunity till a most providential
-circumstance caused their discovery. Well, one of their exploits was to
-get one of their gang into Mrs. M.’s as ostensible man servant to rob
-the house. Late at night one of the maids discerned a light in the
-basement and heard voices, indicating that there were robbers in the
-dwelling. She thought for a moment of trying to run and get help from
-the guard, but fearing that unlocking the back door might arouse the
-burglars, she decided on barricading the room in which her mistress
-slept, hoping to be able to call for help to some passer-by; but alas!
-none came; the robbers came up, quickly destroyed her barricade, and
-though she fought bravely with some fire-wood,—the only weapon at her
-hand—was overpowered, gagged, tied up with her mistress in a carpet, and
-so left for hours. When the milkman and butcher came and called
-ineffectually for admittance, the doors were forced, and they were
-released after much suffering; such was a sample of some of their
-exploits.
-
-Leaving St. Patrick’s church, nearly opposite this residence, we go on
-to and up Esplanade Hill, till we come to a pretty little church, and it
-was the sacrilege perpetrated here that was the cause of their
-discovery. Amongst other articles they had stolen a solid silver statue
-of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Every effort was made to trace the thieves,
-but ineffectually, till the curiosity of an old country woman found them
-out. Somewhere, I think, back of Point Levis, there lived a Canadian
-farmer, whose old domestic had become very much disgusted at the changed
-aspect of the home—from a respectable, quiet domicile it had become a
-most disorderly house; half intoxicated people coming in and out at all
-hours, arriving with carioles loaded with things kept out of her sight.
-She noticed that she was always sent off while they unloaded, and they
-made their way to a hut in the woods built for boiling maple sugar, and
-that huge fires were built, though no sugar was made. Finally, she
-followed the gang secretly, and went close enough to hear, though not to
-see, what was going on, and overheard these words uttered: "I am very
-sorry for you, my poor little virgin, but you must boil in the pot too.
-Ah! I’ll keep this little finger to remember you by." Horrified beyond
-expression, the old woman returned swiftly to the house and kept a
-terrified watch; her master came in, and most of the men drove off; but
-the one whose voice she had recognized was so intoxicated that he fell
-into a heavy sleep, and out of his pocket fell the tiny silver finger of
-the statue. Seizing the first opportunity, she sought the parish priest
-and told him all. He at once connected the small finger with the recent
-church robbery, enjoined the most absolute silence on the woman, and
-advised her for her own sake as well as that of others to go about her
-work as usual and so excite no suspicion. In the meantime he
-communicated with the authorities, who wisely determined to make no
-display of their knowledge, as the silver was melted and all traces
-destroyed; but on the occasion of the next burglary, a posse of police
-instantly surrounded the place, and effectually captured in time the
-whole gang, several of whom were hanged.
-
-They owed their long immunity to the fact that several people of
-position were implicated. Some, against their will, too terrified to
-break from them. One man, on the scaffold, confessed that a young man
-unwarily brought into their meshes had begged leave to be permitted to
-break off from them on his taking oath never to betray them. A seeming
-acquiescence was yielded, and an appointment made to take a row on the
-river to negotiate where no one could overhear their conversation. As
-soon as out of sight and sound the man confessed he had silenced him
-effectually by a knock on the head and a pitch into the river.
-
-Leaving the little church on the Esplanade, on reaching St. Ann, and
-turning to the left, at the top of Ursule hill, you find a double brown
-house, with peculiar pointed turret windows. Here I lived when about
-eight years old, but most distinctly do I remember its surroundings.
-Come in and sit with me in the end parlor window and I will point out to
-you Colonel (afterwards General) Macdonald, in his brave uniform, the
-picture of dignity, coming down, the steps of the building formerly
-occupied by Dr. Boswell; also the house where Dr. Lemieux now lives,
-some officers (Guards, I think) had their quarters, and pretty lively
-quarters they were. Most of these gentlemen were rich, young, full of
-fun, and quite regardless of consequences. One of their eccentricities
-was to insist on a favorite horse being brought in by the front door and
-harnessed in one of the large rooms off the entrance. I used to watch
-these proceedings with great glee. No doubt they paid richly for their
-whistle when settling day came with their landlord. But they could well
-afford to pay for their pranks.
-
-Opposite this house, the door facing Ann street is still the solid
-residence, the home some years since of the much-lamented Judge Alleyne;
-in the early days I speak of, the house of Mr. Le Mesurier, a merchant
-then, but previously an officer in ——, and carrying a reminder of the
-same in an empty sleeve, a noble mark of valor.
-
-To be a good carver was then an absolute necessity, for all carving was
-done at table, and Mr. Le Mesurier piqued himself on always discharging
-this duty himself, which he did most skillfully by means of a peculiarly
-constructed knife and fork. Once seated at a side-table (I had been
-invited to tea with some of the younger members of the family), I
-watched him do so with great admiration. I do not recall precisely who
-else were there; but one figure is specially impressed on my memory,
-that of Mrs. Kerr (mother of the late Judge Kerr), a very stately lady
-in pink silk and high white plumes.
-
-Mrs. Le Mesurier, although at the head of fashionable society, was one
-of the old-time good housekeepers. I think I see her now with her keys
-in hand, giving directions to some domestic. She had a large family—all
-popular; but the two special favorites were, I think, Miss Harriet, who
-is married to General Elliot, and Henry Le Mesurier, whose former lovely
-residence on the St. Lewis road still exists. He had a peculiarly
-winning charm of manner, inherited, as I saw in a very short interview I
-had with him, by his son George.
-
-I will now take you up the Esplanade and stop at a cut-stone house on
-the corner of St. Lewis road, once used as the residence of the
-Lieut.-Governor. It was conveniently situated, and there was great
-indignation expressed when the project was mooted of buying Spencer
-Wood, for, though in most respects suitable, many said it was too far,
-for those whose position entitled them to vice-regal entertainments
-would find horse hire a heavy tax. For, my friends, in those early days
-the almighty dollar was not worshipped as now; in fact, very few of
-those moving in the highest society were rich—good family, culture and
-education were the tests, and no amount of money would have introduced a
-vulgar person into the charmed circle; in fact, permission to subscribe
-to the Quebec assemblies was a matter of almost as great moment as
-admittance to old London Almacks. An instance of which may be found in
-this over-true tale told me by an aged aunt who knew all the
-circumstances. Briefly, it was this: A rich tradesman lived on Mountain
-Hill, who had a pretty wife, who, not content with every needful luxury
-for her happiness, must needs sigh for, to her, the unattainable (that
-was _entrée_ to the castle). On one occasion a military gentleman of
-high position who owed this tradesman some money said he regretted the
-circumstance, and that if he would give him time he would do anything
-possible for him in return. "Well," said Mr. Blank, "if you could do
-something for my wife, I should not only consider the bill paid, but be
-grateful too." "What is asked?" said the colonel. "Just this: you see,
-sir, my wife is young, and has taken it into her foolish little head she
-must get to one of the castle balls. Could you get her in?" "Nothing
-easier, my dear sir; on my arm she can come in unquestioned." So grand
-preparations were made by the lady, and at the appointed time she went
-to the castle, triumphant, on her cavalier’s arm, advanced to the door
-where the cards of admission were received, when the official in waiting
-said, "Enter, colonel, but Mrs. —— is not known here, where is her
-invitation?" Mortified to death, it was said that Mrs. Blank, unwilling
-to face the occupants of the ladies’ dressing-room, turned and fled
-precipitately in her slippers and without her outward wraps, rushed
-home, and that chagrin and cold brought on a severe illness that
-resulted in consumption. On her death-bed, unable to forgive the wound
-to her pride, she made her daughter promise that, eschewing all thoughts
-of love, she would promise her to marry only a man of such position she
-would be able to look down on those who had snubbed her mother. Being
-young, rich and pretty, this young girl accepted an aged man of very
-high rank, refusing one of the finest young men in Quebec, of whom she
-was fond, and commenced a life of unhappiness with a gentleman who in
-his dotage made her live almost a recluse in the country, and dress up
-and go through the drill as if he were commanding still.
-
-His death finally rescued her from such a life, but by that time her
-nervous system had become so thoroughly unhinged, her mind gave way, and
-the last I knew of her was her being sent to the lunatic asylum, having
-no child or relative to care for her. A sad comment on an ill-placed
-mother’s ambition.
-
-At the opposite corner of said stone house was a pretty little residence
-occupied at one time and owned by the late Major Temple, adjoining which
-was his father-in-law’s residence, the late Hon. Chief Justice Jonathan
-Sewell. Both these houses still stand, but in vain I look for the
-pretty lace curtains, and the two parrots on their stands, calling to
-you through the bright flowers in the window of the late Major Temple’s
-residence. As an old Quebecer I am ashamed to say that pretty house has
-been the one blot on the whole of Quebec’s loveliest street. It has
-been turned into a petty candy shop, a couple of bottles of sweets, two
-or three sugar-sticks and halfpenny cakes, and a notice, "Registry
-Office for Servants," replaces the view of the parrots and flowers.
-Were I rich I should purchase the property myself, and for old times let
-some one occupy it who would keep up somewhat its former appearance.
-Such a thing would not have occurred in Montreal. The Montrealers have
-too much ambition for their city to let it deteriorate, and consequently
-property becomes more valuable every day. Why, to think Americans
-should have been permitted to carry off bodily the house where
-Montgomery’s body was laid and are making a fortune out of it, having
-set it up as an Indian curiosity shop in some part of the States. Why
-not have done it here?
-
-Strolling on through the beautiful St. Louis Gate, past the new armory,
-certainly a credit to the old city, and past rows of handsome new
-houses, we come to a solid looking building with a golden lion sign.
-When I looked at it, I wondered if it was chosen to beguile the innocent
-into the impression that they were at the old chien d’or. It does not
-need that it has memories enough of its own, for here lived the late A.
-Joseph, Esq., and his amiable wife, one of the most charming of
-hostesses, and who gave us any number of pleasant parties, but almost
-every house on that street (then, as now, quite a fashionable one) is
-associated with pleasant recollections. The one just inside the toll
-gate on the left was then occupied by Capt. Charles Campbell, a retired
-officer of Her Majesty’s 99th, I think, father of our old friend, A. C.,
-joint Prothonotary of Quebec.
-
-Mr. Le Moine, in his able work, "The Explorations of Eastern Latitudes,"
-by Jonathan Old Buck, F. G. S. Q., so graphically depicted the Plains of
-Abraham and its surroundings, I can but touch on old personal memories,
-which as they please me in writing, for I live but in the past, may
-serve to amuse you, my readers, in an idle hour. I will now stop at
-Spencer Wood, and visit the pretty home of our favorite author.
-
-The house at present occupied by Judge Bosse, Quebec, was fitted up in
-1860 for Lord Monck, Spencer Wood having been burnt down on 12th March,
-1860. Spencer Wood residence having been rebuilt and fitted up in
-accordance with the requirements of a permanently selected vice-regal
-residence, was successively occupied by the following parties:
-
-Sir Edmund Head, 1860; Lord Monck, 1861; Sir N. F. Belleau,
-Lieut.-Governor, 1867; Hon. R. E. Caron, Lieut.-Governor, afterwards Sir
-R. E. Caron, 1870; Hon. Luc Letellier, 1878; Hon. Theodore Robitaille,
-1879; Hon. Mr. Masson, 1884; Hon. Auguste Réal Angers, 1889, who married
-in April, 1890, Emelie Le Moine, daughter of the late Alex. Le Moine,
-who now resides there, Oct. 15th, 1890.
-
-
-
-
- *SPENCER GRANGE, RESIDENCE OF
- JAMES MACPHERSON LE MOINE,
- F.R.L.C.*
-
-
-You drive through a pretty road, heavily lined with trees, but through
-the foliage discern a neat cottage at the left, frequently occupied by
-the pastors of St. Michael’s church. On the right, facing the grass
-plots and bedded in trees stands a very pretty residence, quite spacious
-inside, and containing every comfort and elegance, presided over by a
-charming hostess and her daughters. Mrs. L., the most amiable of
-ladies, spares no fatigue in showing you all that can interest, and
-there is a great deal to see at the Grange. The parlor windows look on
-a lawn skirted with various trees, where many a wild bird makes its
-nest, and looking outwards, and listening to their varied notes, you
-could fancy yourself in a deep wood. From a pretty dining-room you pass
-through a passage lined with marble busts of the ancient heroes of
-Greece and Rome, into the grapery, where the heavy clusters of grapes
-look too lovely to be plucked. An aviary adjoins this, and at times the
-soft cooing of doves mingles with the other caged inmates and the notes
-of the wild birds in the adjacent shrubbery. All is so quiet here, you
-might fancy yourself miles from civilization. It is a fitting home for a
-literary man, and bears everywhere an impress of elegance and
-refinement. Mr. Le Moine has some very curious heads of rare animals
-and numerous trophies of the chase and rare birds sent by admiring
-friends. The odor of the new-mown hay and the varied scent of the
-flowers complete the charm of this pretty home. Amongst other
-curiosities, Mr. Le Moine has the original key of one of the city gates,
-which has been presented to him. It is a very ponderous looking affair.
-
-
-
-
- *SOCIETY IN 1854.*
-
-
-We will take a stroll back, citywards, coming down the Esplanade, about
-the year 1850. We notice, as we near the Esplanade, the sound of the
-band in full force. The Esplanade benches are crowded with ladies.
-From the windows of many houses, spectators look on the gay scene; while
-lord and lady, cavalier and belle, pass to and fro to enjoy the military
-music and a chat with their acquaintances. The militia, in some
-measure, replace the regular army, but with a difference: the latter
-were, as a general rule, men of wealth, culture, travel, and leisure
-with little else to do but make themselves, agreeable to the ladies,
-which they did so successfully as to arouse the ire of the civilians.
-Even from the few houses that face the Esplanade alone, one, at least,
-and, as in the family of Sheriff Sewell (now occupied by Mr. Hunt), no
-less than three, if not four, were carried off by English officers; and
-from houses nearly adjoining went Miss Panet, Miss Healy, two Misses
-Motz, the handsome Miss Joly, Miss Bradshaw, Miss Maxham; and a few
-doors around the corner, on St. Anne street, Miss Ashworth.
-
-Amongst the noted belles living on the Esplanade were the handsome
-Burrage ladies and the Misses Mackenzie, whose father met his death in a
-very sad manner. There was a house situated on the St. Louis road
-called the "H—— House," where (there being very large rooms to let for
-picnic use) were often held evening entertainments. On one occasion the
-bachelors gave us a ball there. It was a lovely moonlight night, but
-very cold, and, wherever there was little snow, glare ice. Mr. Mackenzie
-and his daughters drove out in safety to the door; but, on alighting, he
-slipped and broke his leg. Being a man beyond middle age, he never
-quite recovered. The shock was, I think, the prime cause of his death.
-
-C. E. Levy, Esq., occupied the house, former corner of St. Anne and the
-Esplanade. The first house opposite, on St. Anne street, was then the
-residence of Captain, afterwards Admiral Boxer, and the propinquity was
-so favorable, he induced the handsome daughter of Captain B—— to change
-her father’s home for his. His widow now owns one of Quebec’s most
-beautiful and costly residences on the St. Louis road. The house now
-occupied by Sir William Meredith was, when I was a child, the house of
-Judge, after Sir William Stuart. His daughter, most kindly I remember,
-sent me a doll, dressed in crimson satin, velvet and train, to represent
-Her Majesty. Its gorgeousness is still before me. The corner house
-above that was at one time occupied by Mrs. White, whose two handsome
-daughters married the brothers G—— and another took captive a favorite
-army doctor. One, her pretty young niece, if I mistake not, Miss McG——,
-afterwards Mrs. B——, lived with her here.
-
-Some years later one sees the erect, handsome old gentleman, Town-Major
-Knight, taking his daily stroll always arm-in-arm with one of his sons,
-as hale and hearty a year or two before his death as he was almost
-twenty years before. One of his daughters still resides in Quebec, the
-wife of our old but always young friend, Henry A——.
-
-It gives me so much pleasure to recall these old days, to people the
-streets of my old birthplace with dead and gone friends, who come up so
-vividly before my mental vision, I could sit for hours and bring them up
-before you; but to strangers this would be wearisome, so I’ll only
-glance at one or two more, and then, with a few hasty memories of some
-of our most eminent Quebec gentlemen, turn from the past to the present.
-I cannot close without speaking of two gentlemen who occupied such a
-prominent place in gay society, Messrs. Angers and Lelièvre, lawyers,
-partners and near neighbors. We always looked to them for a succession
-of most agreeable entertainments. If I am not mistaken, at the time
-they lived on Haldimand hill, and before they purchased the St. Louis
-hotel, it was divided into two houses,—one occupied by that gay old
-gentleman, Mr. Burroughs and his family, one of whose handsome
-daughters, Cecil, not long deceased, married the Hon. Mr. Garneau; the
-other still lives, I think, in Paris (Mrs. Kimber). His son John, a
-very quiet looking gentleman, most unexpectedly carried off our great
-society belle at that time, the lovely Leda L., from numerous
-competitors, mother of Madame Masson, wife of the late Governor Masson.
-But if I go on to speak of all the pretty girls of which we could boast
-at that time, I should go on for ever, so I will present to you a slight
-sketch of some of our most prominent men. Of Hon. George Okill Stuart,
-Sir James Stuart, and Hon. Henry Black so much has been written that I
-will only mention their names, and give you a slight sketch of Mr.
-Faribault, a most genial gentleman, of particularly courteous manners,
-very literary, of good old French family, and universally respected. He
-lived in the old house on whose site is built that now occupied by his
-only child and daughter, who married Quebec’s famous artist, Mr. Hamel.
-Mr. Hamel had a most particular gift for catching likenesses,
-demonstrated when quite a boy. He died unfortunately quite young,
-leaving a son and daughter, who with their mother reside in her father’s
-old home.
-
-Charles Gethings, son of Captain James Gethings, an Irish officer of the
-old 100th Regiment, was born in Bona Vista, Newfoundland, and came to
-this country with his father. His first residence was that occupied
-formerly by Hon. George Primrose. Captain Gethings was stricken with
-paralysis while mounting guard at Hope Gate, and died at the fourth
-house on the right hand going up towards the Fabrique. His son Charles,
-after being employed a short time in the Commissariat, then with
-Gillespie, Moffatt & Co., Montreal, subsequently in the City Bank of
-Quebec, spent many years as manager of the Quebec Bank, Quebec,
-receiving to the day of his death a liberal pension from the Quebec
-Bank. A kind father, a scrupulously upright man, the family all honor
-his memory. He sleeps in St. Matthew’s churchyard vault.
-
-
-
-
- *NEW YEAR’S DAY, 1840—IN QUEBEC.*
-
-
- Old Time, with customary speed,
- Has passed us on his flying steed,
- And once again a New Year’s day
- Now greets us smiling bright and gay.
-
-My young friends, I live so little in the present, so much in the past,
-I hardly know the customs of modern society, but I am not so totally out
-of the world as not to be conscious that old-time hospitalities on that
-day are quite relegated to the past, and happily the cake and wine given
-once so freely are no longer fashionable, for I think now with amaze of
-our ancient customs, and wonder how, having partaken of the lavish
-hospitality of these old days, any of our beaux could have got home
-without the aid of Dickens’ traditional wheelbarrow. As it may amuse
-you I will just give you a picture of New Year’s day as kept about forty
-years ago. Well, I cannot state what precise year, but one New Year’s
-day the courtyard of the English Cathedral was a mass of glare ice, just
-like a skating rink, and no lady could go to service at the English
-cathedral without the assistance of a well-shod beau to help her to keep
-her equilibrium, and after service return with me to the home of one of
-our city belles. You will find the mother of the family in full dress,
-seated in a comfortable arm chair, a bright fire burning in the grate,
-magazine in hand, to while away the hour when the ready attendant will
-usher in the first visitor. A couple of young ladies beside her, in
-full dress, pink, blue or gray satin or silk décolleté, a heavy gold
-chain or valuable watch visible attached to a handsome gold watch hook
-on the side of the dress, a bouquet holder in one hand, and embroidered
-handkerchief and white kid gloves and numerous bracelets, they sit with
-all the indifference it is possible to simulate, till the announcement
-of Mr. A, soon followed by B, C, D, and E, till the room is so crowded
-only the compliments of the season can be exchanged before with a bow
-one gentleman gives place to another, and so numerous are the visitors
-in some favored houses, perhaps even eighty in a day, one of the family
-surreptitiously takes the names for future recognizance, and woe be to
-the unfortunate swain whom forgetfulness or too much occupation may have
-prevented from paying his respects; he will surely be left out of the
-list of invites for the next ball. And yet, poor unfortunate, he cannot
-leave the house without taking from the hand of the fair lady of the
-house a glass of wine, and that offer he was expected to accept perhaps
-at twenty or thirty houses. A year or two later it was considered bon
-ton to offer nothing in the parlor, but an obsequious waiter tendered
-ale, wines and other delicacies, catching the departing visitor in a
-parlor near the hall door. This was something better. A gentleman
-could refuse a waiter’s demand—not so easily a lady’s. Still later,
-about fifteen years ago, I well remember the Rev. Mr. Hébert, of
-Kamouraska, asking as a personal favor and a mark of respect to himself
-that none of his parishioners should offer temptation to the weak in the
-form of stimulant to New Year’s visitors, and he very lucidly expressed
-himself in these terms: "You say some of you are advised by your
-physician to take wine, well, that is all right, and put your liquor
-beside your pills, and as you do not think it necessary to give physic
-to all your friends because the doctor orders it for you, neither do I
-think the tonic that may do you good necessary to sow broadcast to those
-to whom it may prove a bitter poison." This was particularly hard on a
-character in the village we had dubbed Monseigneur because he served a
-former Bishop, and being wealthy he piqued himself on bringing something
-new for New Year, and his last purchase had been a valuable liquor
-stand. He was heart-broken. Being a very pious man he was deeply
-chagrined to think he could not display his new purchase, till he was
-once more elevated to the summit of happiness by the suggestion that
-raspberry vinegar, lime juice and lemon syrup would look equally well in
-his fine caraffe.
-
-
-
-
- *A POINT OF HONOR.*
-
-
-It must be fifty-two years ago fully when I first remember the house now
-occupied by Mr. O’Hare as a first-class private boarding house. Its rear
-faces the Citadel, its front looks into the barrack yard of the former
-barracks on St. Louis street, now occupied by Major Forrest, Well, this
-house was then occupied, and I think owned, by a very dear uncle, the
-late Charles Adolphus H. I say, I think owned, because I perfectly
-remember the rocks in rear being blasted to make a stable and the
-building of an extension with vaulting apparatus and so forth for the
-young people’s recreation, and this extension adjoined the nursery where
-presided a female nurse of wonderful imaginative powers, who, when the
-twilight gathered, and we begged for stories, detailed for our benefit
-horror after horror—her only idea of entertainment for young children.
-Well, in the garret of this old house my dear grand-uncle found a large
-ledger, very strongly bound. On the outer pages were these words: "I
-implore whoever finds this volume to keep it until the year ——, when, if
-not reclaimed, then burn it unless he would incur the curse of a dead
-man, for by that time all interested and for whom this book is kept must
-be dead." The leaves were crossed with red tape, and every here and
-there sealed with red sealing wax, but by breaking off a bit of wax we
-could read a few words, and though I do not remember why, we seemed to
-associate their meaning with some record of the North-West. Devoured by
-curiosity, we young people, too afraid of the curse to openly destroy
-the seals, devised every plan to ascertain the contents, and one of them
-was to give the book to the younger children of the family as a
-play-thing, hoping they would break them open and the contents be
-exposed; but alas! one day my dear grand-uncle came upon the scene,
-fathomed our project, and put a stop for all time to our endeavors by
-putting said ledger in the stove, and watched it while it burnt. Was
-this absolutely necessary? Did the most rigid scrupulousness demand
-this? I don’t know how others will answer. For myself, if I had the
-book before me now I would read its contents, and then judge whether I
-should divulge its secrets or not in the interest of the public. What a
-field of conjecture is open here! This book contained records of the
-North-West. Of what? Do you remember, my friends, an article that
-appeared in the papers very many years ago, saying that a voyageur had
-discovered somewhere in the far north an old white-haired gentleman, the
-Rev. Ebenezer Williams, who claimed to be the son of the unfortunate
-Dauphin, son of the decapitated Louis XVI., and whose devoted followers
-had rescued from prison and substituted a pauper, and at great personal
-risk brought the unfortunate boy to America and placed him for safe
-keeping with an Indian tribe, and leaving documents to prove his
-identity should there ever appear a chance of his claiming the throne.
-But as years rolled on, and no prospect of his being recalled to the
-throne, and his protectors being dead, he had been educated as a
-clergyman and served as missionary till his death. In fact, it was only
-when on his deathbed these facts were discovered. Had this book—a very
-closely written volume—anything to do with him? God only knows!
-
-
-
-
- *COUNTRY POST OFFICES FORTY AND
- FIFTY YEARS AGO.*
-
-
-Our ancestors must have been very honest in rural parts, and had
-unlimited faith in each other’s integrity, judging by the early post
-offices. The first one I remember was that of Murray Bay, when on the
-arrival of the bag its contents were dumped on the floor and every one
-picked out the letters for themselves and friends, and enacted the part
-of voluntary carriers for their friends, and very curious were the
-articles then transmitted through the post office, the mail bags then
-doing the present express service. A relative told me that he was
-somewhere in the Gaspé district when the carrier arrived with the bags
-he had carried a long distance on his back, and using rather hard
-language at the unwonted weight of the bag, and curious to see what was
-the cause of this extraordinary weighty mail, when lo! out tumbled two
-immense wild geese, sent as a present by the Hon. W. H. to a friend.
-Fancy the dénouement and the wrath of the old Scotchman, who had borne
-the weight on a long tramp through a pathway in the forest.
-
-One of the most curious experiences I ever had occurred about ten years
-ago, when I went with my family to a rural summer resort. We were
-several miles from the post office, and had very steep hills to climb on
-every side, so I wished to kill two birds with one stone, and decided to
-go to the post office after church service. I did so, and inquired for
-a registered letter I expected. After a few minutes inquiry the maitre
-de poste said: "Yes, there is a registered letter for you, but I can’t
-find it, but it is all right, it is in the book." "Well," I said, as
-the assistant was absent and might possibly have said letter in charge,
-"I’ll call back after afternoon service." I did so, but again the
-letter could not be found. "You’ll probably be passing in a week or so,
-won’t you call in then, by that time I have no doubt we’ll have it for
-you." "But," I said, "that won’t do. I am a stranger here and need the
-money." "Ah! madame" (they were French Canadians), "we are very sorry
-to inconvenience you, and if you will say how much you need will be
-happy to advance you the cash, as by our books you are entitled to
-some." I could not feel angry with these simple people, they were
-evidently so honest and true. Yet, as I wanted my letter, with home
-news, as well as the cash, I proposed that we should make a search in
-the post office, which was also a shop of general merchandise. So,
-after looking through box after box, some suggested looking in the
-cellar, as an ill-fitting trap door with wide cracks was directly under
-the official desk. The cellar, however, did not contain the missing
-document, and I was almost in despair of recovering for some time my
-lost property, when a happy inspiration came to me, and I inquired if
-they sold envelopes. "Ah! oui, madame," they did, and among the
-envelopes ready to be sold at about a cent a piece was my letter
-containing fifty dollars cash, which, minus my persistence, might have
-found its way into the pocket of some honest or dishonest purchaser. But
-all is well that ends well, and I parted from my post office friends
-with expressions of mutual regard, and fearing to do them harm,
-believing so fully in their integrity, I never spoke of the matter; but
-when, some years later, I heard the Post Office Inspector had made
-radical changes, I thought it was beneficial to the general public.
-
-
-
-
- *THE SUBTERRANEAN PASSAGES OF
- THE CITADEL, QUEBEC.*
-
-
-In the year ——, the late lamented Lieut. Fayrer, ordinance officer, came
-to Quebec on a tour of inspection as to supplies needed (accompanied by
-his wife, Lizzie Henshawe, a cousin). He asked us if we would like to
-accompany him through the underground passages of the Citadel, very
-rarely open to visitors. We gratefully accepted the offer, and so well
-guarded was the secrecy of these premises, it was with the utmost
-astonishment the soldiers present heard that underneath their Citadel
-were miles of underground passages for transfer in case of siege, large
-rooms for the refuge of women and children, and places for the safe
-depositing of treasure. We accompanied him, and I remember going down
-stairs intersected with heavy iron doors and through long passages with
-only outlets for muskets to give light, then into large damp underground
-chambers for a safe.
-
-I cannot tell the length we went through of dark passage, but it was
-some considerable distance, and the rooms are quite large, I suppose
-capable of each holding fifty people. I have heard it said (but can’t
-vouch for the truth), that these passages have an outlet on the St.
-Lawrence at one end, and the Martello towers at the other. I have no
-doubt such is the case. The underground passages are bombproof, and no
-sound can be heard from them. A soldier forgotten there once gave
-himself up to die, until he remembered he might be missed at roll call.
-Such was the case, and his life thus saved. The passages are underneath
-the Citadel at Cape Diamond, so called because at one time great
-quantities of an inferior diamond were found there. I remember when the
-Cape quite shone with them, and many old people have handsome jewellery
-made from these gems. There is one street of houses opposite the Cape
-about fifty-five years ago occupied by the following parties: the late
-Chas. Gethings, the late Col. Dyde, John Carleton Fisher, William Patton
-and Col. Gore, father of the present Countess of Errol. A small house
-on the off side, occupied by a waiter, is the spot where is the present
-High School of Quebec.
-
-
-
-
- *THE FIRST ST. PATRICK’S SOCIETY
- IN QUEBEC.*
-
-
-Ireland, so prominent at the present time, especially appeals to
-favorable remembrance of all her true people, and it may prove
-interesting to many of my readers to hear something of the first St.
-Patrick’s Society ever formed in Quebec. I therefore copy for public
-benefit the very interesting account of its first doings, given me by an
-old friend:—
-
-"In the year 1836 a few Irish gentlemen met in a small house in the
-Upper Town market place to form a St. Patrick’s Society without
-reference to church or creed, but merely for the purpose of rendering
-assistance to any of their countrymen who might be requiring help or
-advice. Those gentlemen present on that occasion were as follows:—
-
-The Hon. Dominick Daly, then Secretary of the Province.
-
-The Hon. George Pemberton, merchant.
-
-The Hon. Mr. Cochrane, brother-in-law to Bishop Mountain.
-
-Sir Henry Caldwell, Baronet.
-
-Geo. Holmes Parke, Esq., merchant.
-
-Charles Gethings, Esq., of the Bank, Quebec.
-
-Edward Bowen, Esq., son of Judge Bowen.
-
-Edward Ryan, Esq., merchant, and Mr. O’Meara, Custom House.
-
-"These gentlemen formed the St. Patrick’s Society, and the subscription
-was to be five shillings each, annually. They also decided to have an
-annual dinner every anniversary. The first president was the Hon. D.
-Daly, and their first dinner was in a building where now stands the
-Russell House. The subscription to the dinner was to be six dollars, to
-make the meeting as select as possible, and to be paid out of the
-subscribers’ own pockets without reference to the annual subscription.
-The next president was the Hon. George Pemberton, and that dinner took
-place in the Albion Hotel in Palace street. The third president was Sir
-H. Caldwell; they dined in the same building, the Albion. The fourth
-president was George Holmes Parke, Esq., who was annually elected
-president for the succeeding fourteen years in succession, and the
-dinners took place principally in the old chateau. To the anniversary
-dinners the presidents of St. George, St. Andrew and St. John the
-Baptist were invited as guests, as was also the heads of all military
-and civil departments. On one occasion in the old chateau, when over
-two hundred and fifty guests sat down to dinner, it looked well to see
-Geo. Holmes Parke, Esq., with the president of St. George on one arm,
-and the presidents of St. Andrew and St. John the Baptist on the other,
-walking up the long room to the head of the dinner table. There were a
-large number of subscribers to the Society, and the consequence was,
-although the subscription was small, it was enabled to do a multitude of
-good. The Society for many years got on admirably until other branches
-were formed, and then Mr. Parke did not take the same interest as he had
-formerly done. Notwithstanding, there never was an anniversary dinner
-given afterwards but Mr. Parke was invited to it as a guest, and given
-one of the most prominent seats at the table. Charles Gethings, Esq., I
-believe, followed Mr. Parke as president, and after him others whose
-names I have not ascertained. Of all the gentlemen that met to form the
-Society, Mr. Parke is the only one living. In 1840 Mr. Parke bought a
-large tract of land on the River St. Charles, a short distance from the
-Dorchester Toll Bridge, on which he had built a splendid mansion, and
-ornamented it with thousands of forest trees and circular avenues, iron
-entrance gates, stone pillars, etc., also beautiful quickset hedges on
-each side of the avenues kept neatly trimmed. In this house, which he
-called "Ringfield," he has lived for the last fifty years, and is still
-living in it. There is a splendid view from Ringfield. From St. Foy’s
-church to St. Peter street in Lower Town can be seen almost every house
-in Upper Town, St. Roch and St. Sauveur. Down the River St. Lawrence can
-be seen nine miles, and from the hall door, before the trees grew up,
-could be counted fourteen parish churches, apart from the city or
-suburbs. Mr. Parke came to Canada in 1830, and is now in his
-eighty-fourth year. During his business career he did a large business,
-and in the course of twenty-five years he had built for himself
-seventy-six large ships by different ship builders, which cost and was
-paid for out of his office over three million of dollars, apart from his
-other business." This gentlemen is father of the present popular
-physician, Dr. Parke. Mr. Lemoine in his "Tourist’s Note Book" says: "A
-very remarkable vestige of French domination exists behind the villa of
-Mr. Parke, a circular field house, hence the name Ringfield, covering
-about twelve acres, with an earthwork once about twenty feet high to the
-east, to shield its inmates from the shot of Wolfe’s fleet lying at the
-entrance of the St. Charles below Quebec."
-
-
-
-
- *SILLERY CHURCH—THE PARSONAGE,
- ONE TIME A RESIDENCE OF
- SIR E. R. CARON.*
-
-
-Sillery Church, beautifully situated above Sillery Cove (one of the
-best-known lumber coves near Quebec), has for its parishioners many
-families of note, foremost amongst whom were the Sharples family, well
-known for their Catholic piety and their active benevolence.
-
-At the time I first knew Sillery Church, its pastor was the Rev. George
-Drolet, a very fervent, energetic priest, who I fear lost his health in
-part from over zeal in the discharge of his arduous duties. His people
-being mixed English and French, I have known him go through the ritual
-of two masses, preach two sermons one in French and one in English
-(fasting) though frequently warned against such over-exertion.
-
-He was stricken with paralysis some years ago, and though comparatively
-a young man, is quite debarred now from all church services.
-
-He exercised considerable influence amongst his parishioners, many of
-them being very difficult to deal with—a floating population of sailors;
-but his genial manner and tact carried him through many difficulties. I
-cannot give a better illustration of that same tact than by narrating a
-fact that occurred full thirty years ago. At the time of the great
-_Corrigan Murder_ (as it was called)—the outcome of a fight between
-Orangemen and R. C. Irishmen—the feud ran so high, the Bishop of Quebec,
-seeing how impossible it would be for an Irish priest to abstain from
-being drawn into the vortex of party strife, decided on sending a
-French-Canadian priest, who would have no national feeling in the
-matter. The matter was discussed, but it was supposed to be such a post
-of danger, even for a priest, the Bishop decided he would ask for a
-volunteer instead of issuing a command to one of his clergy. All eyes
-turned to the Rev. Mr. Drolet as _the one_ suited; he had been junior
-priest in St. Patrick’s Church in Quebec, was thoroughly acquainted with
-the character of the Irish people, and much beloved by them. He offered
-his services, which were at once accepted; but some of his confrères
-felt badly over the matter and remonstrated: "You must remember, my dear
-sir, that you have a mother and sisters dependent on you for a home, and
-you hold your life in your hand, if you go to —— in the present state of
-feeling, as the Irish say they will not have a French-Canadian priest."
-"I am not afraid," was the Rev. Mr. D.’s rejoinder; he went, to find the
-Presbytery closed, the Parish Church nailed up, and a very threatening
-crowd assembled. He could do nothing that day, so went to a neighboring
-parish to say his morning mass. The next day the same scene. Undaunted
-he began to talk, said he always thought an Irishman liked fair play,
-and thought he might ask for a few minutes hearing—he, one man against
-hundreds. "Oh! yes," they said, ashamed. "We’ll let you talk, but
-remember we don’t want to insult your reverence, but we won’t have a
-French-Canadian over us." "Well, answer me one question, I like to know
-to whom I am talking: what is your name, and in what part of Ireland
-were you born?" "Oh, sir, I was not born in Ireland, but my grandfather
-and grandmother came from the Old country." "And you? and you?" The
-same answer, not one perhaps in forty were born in Ireland, all really
-by birth Canadians, and Mr. D. said, "You say you won’t have me because
-I am a French-Canadian, my name is so, but, as my grandmother was Irish,
-I consider myself as Irish as any of you." His wit carried the day. He
-resided there for many years, and was so well liked that between thirty
-and forty of his parishioners accompanied him to do him honor, when he
-was given the pastorate of St. Michel, and I shall never forget the
-sight of a crowded steamboat, half of the people in tears as they went
-to see him off, and land him at Sillery, to which he had been
-promoted—the most desirable rectorship, I fancy, in the R. C. gift, near
-Quebec; but which he was to enjoy only a few years.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. MATTHEW’S CHAPEL.*
-
-
-A beautiful little church on the site of the old burying ground, on St.
-John street, Quebec, built by that well-known philanthropist, Matthew
-Hale, Esq., and very much enlarged and beautified by the various members
-of the Hamilton family with their well-known liberality.
-
-
-
-
- *BISHOP HAMILTON.*
-
-
-About thirty years ago, there arrived fresh from college a
-newly-ordained clergyman of the Church of England. So youthful looking,
-so mild in character, it appeared at first as if he would hardly yet be
-fitted for the onerous position of pastor, but he was appointed. Family
-influence and money soon caused St. Matthew’s to be most largely
-patronized, also free seats. In the meantime our young clergyman
-pursued his unobtrusive way. Daily he might be seen in the poorest and
-least frequented streets of the city, driving a little waggonette,
-evidently constructed to order from its capacity for holding comforts
-for his poor people. A thoroughly earnest, fervently pious man, our
-young clergyman, before many years, displayed his innate force of
-character, acquired great influence, and we know him now as Charles
-Hamilton, Bishop of Ontario.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. PATRICK’S CEMETERY, QUEBEC.*
-
-
- Formerly Woodfield, the residence of the late
- James Gibb, Esq., previously the residence of
- Chas. Sheppard, Esq.
-
-
-As I tread the sod of this cemetery what a host of memories are evoked.
-Here was the handsome residence of Chas. Sheppard, formerly large timber
-merchant of Quebec, one of whose sons, Mansfield Sheppard, Esq., and his
-daughter, Mrs. Watt, I think still survive! This pleasant home was
-burnt down, the family having hardly time to escape, and many cherished
-and valuable mementoes of the past perished with it. It was purchased
-by James Gibb, Esq., as a homestead, and so occupied for many years; and
-who in the flush of enjoyment at the many pleasant entertainments given
-by the Gibb family would have foreseen the day when many of those
-dancing and promenading through those beautiful grounds would be
-treading over perhaps the very spot may be their own resting place in
-the quiet grave. Such is life. This cemetery, now of great beauty from
-its natural characteristics, is about two miles from Quebec.
-
-
-
-
- *MOUNT HERMON CEMETERY,*
-
-
-About three miles from the city of Quebec, is most beautifully situated
-on the St. Louis road its grounds at the back overlooking the St.
-Lawrence.
-
-Amongst other noted monuments here is the slab that indicates the last
-resting place of the young son of Sir Edmund Head, who was accidentally
-drowned in the St. Lawrence river, and buried here in Mr. Price’s lot.
-The Price family had long occupied a high position in Quebec society,
-and been intimate with the families of several of the governors. I see
-they had the honor of a visit from the Prince on his late trip to
-Quebec, who lunched with them.
-
-I will attempt no further description of old Quebec, Mr. Le Moine has
-too thoroughly exhausted the subject, but confine myself to a
-description of people and incidents illustrative of the to me good old
-times. Perhaps the beauty of the prospective is enhanced by the
-distance, but to those who have passed the meridian of life the past
-must ever be dearer than the present, for it alone is peopled with so
-many of the loved we look for in vain now. So many of my once dear
-associates have gone on before me, I often ponder on what must be the
-feelings of one living to a hundred years, who stands totally alone
-without one he has known in his earlier days to greet him.
-
-
-
-
- *IN MEMORIAM.*
-
-
- To my darling husband on the anniversary of
- his death—September the 14th, 1889.
-
-
- A year has come and gone since, by God’s Holy will
- You left me, husband darling, and I still
- Sorrow as in the earlier days, and grieve
- As only those do who also are bereaved
- Of one so fondly loved, whose life for years so
- closely ’twined together
- It seemed that death itself could never sever
- The bonds, so firmly bound, in sickness or in health
- Times of disaster, poverty or wealth,
- The love which warmer grew with length of year.
- It seems not possible you’re gone, I here;
- Be still my heart, ’tis only for a time.
- God’s will be done, and humbly mine
- Must bow to His who doeth all things well.
- Perchance you hear me, darling; who can tell
- What line divides us? Thought may meet thought
- On the high shore you stand,
- And waft a loving greeting to the spirit land.
- So I’ll not grieve you with my helpless sorrow.
- But happily look toward that glad to-morrow
- Will surely reunite us on that Heavenly shore.
- The time will come, we’ll meet and part no more.
-
-
-
-
- *NOVEMBER.*
-
-
- When you speak of drear November,
- Of its days of rain and gloom,
- You should also ere remember
- It’s the advent very soon
- Of the bright month of December,
- With its Christmas joys and cheer.
- That its family rejoicings,
- And its greetings of New Year,
- Eclipse all previous darkness,
- As the dark before the dawn;
- Ignoring all the dangers,
- That yet before us yawn.
- For happily so the future
- Is hidden from our gaze,
- We only blindly, step by step,
- Tread the ever-tangled maze
- That encircles all our future,
- And no one can design
- The pathway to be trodden
- By either yours or mine.
- So implicitly we’ll leave
- Our Heavenly Guide to say
- The road that we will travel
- And journey day by day,
- Assured He will truly guide us,
- If we will only follow,
- And land us safely on the shore,
- When some assured to-morrow
- Will join the past, and safe return
- All those for whom we sorrow.
-
-
-
-
- *TO THE OYSTER.*
-
-
- How I love you! toothsome oyster.
- Because at hunger’s call
- You are at all times ready
- To fill our empty maw.
-
- But still more do I love you
- For the odor that you waft
- Of seaside and sea-air you bring
- With memories of the past.
-
- The past whene’er your advent,
- In autumn’s wintry weather,
- Was grandly hailed on every side,
- And brought all friends together.
-
- When seated at a well-spread board,
- Full quite a score and more
- Of neighbors met to eat the food
- All must pronounce so very good.
-
- So whether hot, or whether cold,
- In stew, or soup, or pie,
- We sing your praise, for very few
- Your excellence can deny.
-
-
-
-
- *LIST OF NEW SUBSCRIBERS.*
-
-
- QUEBEC.
-
-Lady Stuart.
-Comte de Turenne.
-H. H. Sewell.
-Mrs. W. Rae.
-A. F. Hunt.
-James Fatton.
-J. Hamilton.
-J. V. Welch.
-H. G. Beemer.
-E. J. Price.
-Hon. Mr. Price.
-P. P. Hall.
-W. A. Russell, 2 copies.
-C. S. Parke, M.D.
-H. M. Michaels, Bk. B. N. A.
-Arch. Campbell.
-J. H. Burroughs.
-Louis G. Fiset.
-Hon. Judge F. Andrews.
-E. N. Chinic.
-George Vanfelsen.
-Henry Russell, M.D.
-Robert Mitchell.
-E. A. Panet, N. P., St. Raymond.
-Mrs. Astell Drayner.
-
-
- MONTREAL.
-
-Sir William Dawson.
-P. B. Casgrain.
-Somerville Weir.
-W. Grant Stuart, M.D.
-A. Primeau.
-Mrs. R. M. Harrison.
-Mrs. Trotter.
-John Fair.
-E. Pipon, Bk. of Montreal
-W. Weir.
-Alfred Thibaudeau.
-J. Cradock Simpson.
-Strachan Bethune.
-Benj. Hart.
-L. W. Marchand.
-P. H. M. Sommerville, Bk. B. N. A.
-W. Godfrey, Bk. B. N. A.
-Madame DesRivières, Malmaison.
-D. McCord.
-A. Sicotte.
-David Denne.
-W. G. LeMesurier.
-H. A. Hutchins.
-E. B. Greenshields.
-Judge Baby.
-B. D. McConnell.
-Norman S. Leslie.
-Chs. Alexander.
-Louis Barbeau,
-Hon. G. H. Drummond.
-Samuel I. Grant.
-Judge Dorion.
-Judge Bosse.
-
-
- OTTAWA.
-
-John D. Arnoldi.
-Parliamentary Library, 2 copies.
-Norman Bethune.
-N. H. Noel, Quebec Bank.
-S. Wilmot, Senate.
-S. Lelièvre.
-Judge Fournier.
-Sir A. Caron.
-Lt. Col. Macpherson.
-Col. Tanet.
-E. Knight, Militia Dept.
-C.H. O’Meara.
-M. Harrison.
-W. Himsworth, Inland Revenue.
-Geo. Duval, High Court of Justice.
-S. Boucher.
-Robt. Cassels.
-W. P. Anderson, Union Bk.
-Jas. Adamson, Senate.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OLD MEMORIES: AMUSING AND
-HISTORICAL ***
-
-
-
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-<title>OLD MEMORIES: AMUSING AND HISTORICAL</title>
-<meta name="PG.Id" content="53403" />
-<meta name="PG.Title" content="Old Memories: Amusing and Historical" />
-<meta name="PG.Released" content="2016-10-29" />
-<meta name="PG.Rights" content="Public Domain" />
-<meta name="PG.Producer" content="Al Haines" />
-<meta name="DC.Creator" content="Mrs. Daniel Macpherson" />
-<meta name="DC.Title" content="Old Memories: Amusing and Historical" />
-<meta name="DC.Language" content="en" />
-<meta name="DC.Created" content="1890" />
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-<meta name="DCTERMS.title" content="Old Memories: Amusing and Historical" />
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-<meta name="DCTERMS.rights" content="Public Domain in the USA." />
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-<meta name="DCTERMS.creator" content="Mrs. Daniel Macpherson" />
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-</head>
-<body>
-<div class="document" id="old-memories-amusing-and-historical">
-<h1 class="center document-title level-1 pfirst title"><span class="x-large">OLD MEMORIES: AMUSING AND HISTORICAL</span></h1>
-
-<!-- this is the default PG-RST stylesheet -->
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-<!-- default attribution -->
-<!-- -*- encoding: utf-8 -*- -->
-<div class="clearpage">
-</div>
-<!-- -*- encoding: utf-8 -*- -->
-<div class="docutils container language-en pgheader" id="pg-header" xml:lang="en" lang="en">
-<p class="noindent pfirst"><span>This ebook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States
-and most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no
-restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it
-under the terms of the </span><a class="reference internal" href="#project-gutenberg-license">Project Gutenberg License</a><span> included with
-this ebook or online at </span><a class="reference external" href="https://www.gutenberg.org/license">https://www.gutenberg.org/license</a><span>. If you
-are not located in the United States, you'll have to check the laws
-of the country where you are located before using this ebook.</span></p>
-<p class="noindent pnext"></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<div class="docutils container" id="pg-machine-header">
-<p class="noindent pfirst"><span>Title: Old Memories: Amusing and Historical
-<br />
-<br />Author: Mrs. Daniel Macpherson
-<br />
-<br />Release Date: October 29, 2016 [EBook #53403]
-<br />
-<br />Language: English
-<br />
-<br />Character set encoding: UTF-8</span></p>
-</div>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="noindent pfirst" id="pg-start-line"><span>*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK </span><span>OLD MEMORIES: AMUSING AND HISTORICAL</span><span> ***</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="noindent pfirst" id="pg-produced-by"><span>Produced by Al Haines.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<p class="noindent pfirst"><span></span></p>
-</div>
-<div class="docutils container titlepage">
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span class="bold xx-large">OLD MEMORIES:</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="bold x-large">AMUSING AND HISTORICAL</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><em class="italics medium">A SEQUEL TO</em></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="bold medium">"REMINISCENCES OF OLD QUEBEC."</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span class="small">BY</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="medium">MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON,</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="small">AN OLD QUEBECER.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 3em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span class="medium">MONTREAL:
-<br />PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-</div>
-<div class="docutils container verso">
-<p class="center pfirst"><span class="small">Entered according to Act of Parliament of Canada, in the
-<br />year one thousand eight hundred and ninety, by
-<br />MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON, in the office of the Minister of
-<br />Agriculture and Statistics at Ottawa.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-</div>
-<div class="dedication docutils container">
-<p class="center pfirst"><span class="medium">DEDICATION.</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="small">TO</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="medium">JAMES MACPHERSON LEMOINE, ESQ.,</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="small">AUTHOR OF</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="medium">QUEBEC PAST AND PRESENT, MAPLE LEAVES, ETC.,</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="medium">MY DEAR HUSBAND'S COUSIN AND TRIED FRIEND,</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="small">I DEDICATE THIS VOLUME AS A SLIGHT MARK OF ESTEEM.</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="medium">CHARLOTTE HOLT GETHINGS MACPHERSON.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span class="bold large">CONTENTS.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="noindent pfirst"><a class="reference internal" href="#to-my-subscribers-and-the-public">To my Subscribers and the Public</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#sequel-to-old-congregational-convent">Sequel to Old Congregational Convent</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#st-louis-hotel">St. Louis Hotel</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#the-quebec-bank">The Quebec Bank</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#horse-boats-and-ice-boats">Horse Boats and Ice Boats</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#beaumont-st-thomas">Beaumont, St. Thomas</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#st-michel">St. Michel</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#a-chronicle-of-st-michel">A Chronicle of St. Michel</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#second-visit-to-roberval-lake-st-john">Second Visit to Roberval, Lake St. John</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#st-leon-springs">St. Leon Springs</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#my-second-visit-to-st-leon-springs">My Second Visit to St. Leon Springs</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#st-raymond">St. Raymond</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#st-augustin">St. Augustin</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#st-andre">St. André</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#les-eboulements">Les Eboulements</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#society-in-quebec-fifty-years-ago">Society in Quebec Fifty Years Ago</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#spencer-grange">Spencer Grange</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#society-in-1854">Society in 1854</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#new-year-s-day-1840">New Year's Day, 1840</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#a-point-of-honor">A Point of Honor</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#country-post-offices-forty-and-fifty-years-ago">Country Post Offices Forty and Fifty Years Ago</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#the-subterranean-passages-of-the-citadel-of-quebec">The Subterranean Passages of the Citadel of Quebec</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#the-first-st-patrick-s-society-in-quebec">The First St. Patrick's Society in Quebec</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#sillery-church">Sillery Church</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#st-matthew-s-chapel">St. Matthew's Chapel</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#bishop-hamilton">Bishop Hamilton</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#st-patrick-s-cemetery">St. Patrick's Cemetery</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#mount-hermon-cemetery">Mount Hermon Cemetery</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#in-memoriam">In Memoriam</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#november">November</a><span>
-<br /></span><a class="reference internal" href="#to-the-oyster">To the Oyster</a></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="to-my-subscribers-and-the-public"><span class="bold large">TO MY SUBSCRIBERS AND THE PUBLIC.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>MY FRIENDS,</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>You have been so good to me, in purchasing,
-within a few weeks, five hundred copies of a
-feuilleton, only intended for private circulation,
-I should like to show my appreciation, by
-catering to your desire for information regarding our
-dear old city, Quebec; but what can I do?
-My learned friend, James Macpherson LeMoine,
-Esq., with his wonderful knowledge of facts,
-so exhausted the subject in his excellent
-and beautifully got up book, "Picturesque
-Quebec," I am utterly overwhelmed.
-Until I began to study the matter I was quite
-ignorant that he had written so fully on
-these matters, so I can only play Boswell to
-his Johnson, and as without Boswell many of
-the sayings of the immortal Johnson would
-have been lost, I too may have my use in
-recording crumbs of information, interesting
-and instructive, though lacking the dignity of
-history.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<p class="noindent pfirst"><span>Yours truly,
-<br />CHARLOTTE HOLT GETHINGS MACPHERSON</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span class="bold x-large">OLD MEMORIES:</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="bold x-large">AMUSING AND HISTORICAL.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span class="medium">SEQUEL TO "REMINISCENCES OF OLD QUEBEC,"
-<br />BY MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>My first recollection is that of being drawn in
-a child's carriage by old Germain, messenger of
-the Quebec Bank (where I was born), to the old
-convent, formerly occupying the site of McCall,
-Shehyn &amp; Co.'s store at the foot of Mountain Hill
-in St. Peter Street, Quebec. This convent has
-been non-existant for forty-seven years. Its
-community now reside in St. Joseph Street,
-St. Roch's. When this convent was there, there
-was no St. Peter Street, there were no wharves,
-and an old sister told me the batteau men
-often struck their sails against their convent. I
-remember my father often called at the
-convent to take me out boating on the St. Lawrence
-River that lapped its shores, for the lower
-town of Quebec was then a delightful residence
-for Quebec people, only the military then
-residing in the Upper Town. Applying for information
-about this old convent to Ville Marie, the
-Mother House of this order, I received the
-following letter from one of the ladies:</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span>CONGREGATION DE NOTRE DAME,</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="noindent pfirst"><span>Montreal, October 10, 1890.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>Madam,</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>As I am obliged to absent myself, I have
-only time to give the year of the present
-foundation at Quebec. The first house was in the
-Upper Town, established in 1688 under the
-direction of the venerable Mother Bourgeois.
-This house was transferred to the Lower Town
-in 1692, under Mons. de St. Vallière, and in
-1844 the convent of the Lower Town not
-being any more convenient, the sisters went
-and fixed themselves in St. Roch's under
-Monseigneur Signai and the Rev. Curé Mr. Charest.
-Rev. Mère St. Madeleine was Superioress
-of the Congregation of Notre Dame.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>I am sorry not to be able to give you further
-details.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<dl class="docutils">
-<dt class="noindent"><span>Your humble servant,</span></dt>
-<dd><p class="first last noindent pfirst"><span>Sr. St. Alexis de St. Joseph.</span></p>
-</dd>
-</dl>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="sequel-to-old-congregational-convent"><span class="bold large">SEQUEL TO OLD CONGREGATIONAL CONVENT.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span>FRIDAY, October 10, 1890.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>I have just returned from a very pleasant
-visit (my first) to Villa Maria, the Maison Mère
-of the old Convent of the Congregation,
-forty-seven years ago at the foot of Mountain Hill,
-Quebec.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Taking the St. Catherine street cars as far as
-the Post-Office, at the toll-gate you enter an
-omnibus (at certain hours) which takes you, for
-the moderate sum of five cents, to the gate
-leading into the grounds of Villa Maria, the
-first educational establishment of the
-Congregation de Nôtre Dame, formerly Moncklands.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The approach on the Côte St. Antoine Road
-is beautiful, especially at this season, when the
-trees surrounding the various pretty homes to
-some of our Montreal gentry are just taking on
-their autumn tints. At one residence especially
-I noticed the leaves of every color, from varied
-green and red, pale pink, and deep crimson.
-One small house especially attracted my
-attention, that of Maxime St. Germain—a real
-old-fashioned humble country stone cottage, with
-the cross standing, a rendezvous in old time for
-prayer when churches were few and far between.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>It was told me that this Maxime St. Germain,
-from a humble habitant, by the rise of the value
-of his property, has risen to great wealth, though
-still living in his humble way, and with his wife
-and brother still occupy the old homestead.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>To make one understand the beauty of
-Moncklands, you must pay it a personal visit,
-and, in default of that, I cannot do better than
-copy a page of its prospectus. I can only say
-that I was utterly charmed even during my
-hurried visit.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The view is so lovely from the front. The
-parlors so tastefully, even elegantly, furnished,
-with a fine library in one of them, every token
-of refinement, and the spirit of order prevails
-with a carefulness of detail which must conduce
-to the comfort of its inmates.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>"In this Institution for Young Ladies will be
-found all the advantages, comfort, etc., in
-harmony with its pre-eminence among the various
-houses of this Order.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>In point of situation, salubrity, and picturesque
-scenery, Villa Maria is unrivalled; the
-grounds are extensive, and comprise a delightful
-grove and a lovely little lake, with gondolas,
-for the healthful amusement of the pupils.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The house, which was formerly the residence
-of the Governor-General of Canada, is fitted up
-in a style of comfort and in a degree of elegance
-not surpassed by any establishment of the kind.
-French being the language of the Institution,
-the pupils possess rare facilities for acquiring a
-thorough and practical knowledge of this
-language. French conversation is compulsory,
-and enters into the competition for the highest
-honors. The course in the English language is
-thorough and complete.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The Governor-General of the Dominion of
-Canada has graciously given this institution a
-magnificent medal, to be awarded for general
-proficiency.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Hon. Ed. Murphy, Montreal, a valuable
-microscope, to the young lady who excels in
-natural history.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Mrs. Ed. Murphy, a magnificent gold medal,
-for excellence in the art of house-keeping.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The Countess de Beaujeu, a rich gold medal,
-to the young lady who excels in French
-conversation.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of
-Quebec, a medal for universal history.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The Rev. L. Collin, Sup. S. S. S., a gold
-medal for literature.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The Rev. J. Marechal, a gold medal for
-religious instruction.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The Hon. P. J. O. Chauveau, ex-minister of
-Education, a gold medal for composition.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The Rev. Mother Sup. General, a gold medal
-for excellence in deportment.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>J. J. McElhone, Esq., of Washington, a gold
-medal for phonography and type-writing.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>J. M. McGirr, Esq., Ont., a gold medal for
-mathematics.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Awarded by an artist, a gold lyre, for
-proficiency in music.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="st-louis-hotel"><span class="bold large">ST. LOUIS HOTEL.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>I have just returned from Quebec, and must
-record one of the most pleasurable incidents of
-that visit, namely, my meeting accidentally an
-old acquaintance, the handsome Miss Bouchette,
-now Lady Shea, and her gifted husband, Sir
-Ambrose Shea. The pleasure of a prolonged
-interview with the latter, and I must say an hour's
-conversation with him, is an education. He has
-the happy gift of conveying so much information
-in such easy flowing language, words seem to
-come specially to express his meaning; you learn
-so much while apparently only chatting. Truly
-may the Bahamas bless the day when he went
-there, and evolved from the noxious weed they
-complained of (Sisal Fibre) an industry which
-will be its grand prosperity. Already the
-importance of this great branch of commerce has
-been so great that he has, in view of Canadian
-interests, come on a visit to Ottawa, to effect, if
-possible, a divergence of the trade to Canada
-instead of permitting our American Cousins to
-reap all the profits. He showed me a plait of
-fibre about two feet long or more, so delicate
-yet so strong. There is no doubt it will produce
-a rival to the famous manilla rope, and so
-facile of handling, it may yet be used for
-the manufacture of linen and other articles, for
-it needs very little preparation for use, and that
-of the simplest kind.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>This wonderful plant suddenly sprung into
-prominent notice. It is a weed particularly
-fertile in the Bahamas. It grows
-about two feet high, and the fibre is the
-length of the plant, and when extracted
-by the simple process of pressing out,
-and then wet and dried in the sun, looks
-exactly like horse hair, and so strong one could
-not break even four threads twined together.
-This Sisal Fibre is creating such a sensation
-now. I need say nothing further on the
-subject, only wish Sir Ambrose and his wife
-a pleasant trip, and thank Mr. Russell for
-the particular courtesy I received from him.
-But when will you fail to receive attention at
-the St. Louis! From mine host down to the
-humblest bell boy, all are so watchful for
-your comfort, so civil in their demeanor, it is a
-pleasure to put up there.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="the-quebec-bank"><span class="bold large">THE QUEBEC BANK, QUEBEC.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>On a recent visit to Quebec I was shown by
-the present courteous and able manager, James
-Stevenson, Esq., a notice he had written in the
-</span><em class="italics">Shareholder</em><span>, February 22, 1884, and there is so
-much of interest in it for the public, I transmit
-the valuable information it contains to you, my
-friends. Mr. Stevenson had directed my attention
-to this article, as he had therein so kindly
-noticed my dear father, the late Charles
-Gethings:—</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The Quebec Bank, with the exception of the
-Bank of Montreal, is the oldest bank in the
-Dominion. On the 9th July, 1818, merchants,
-and others interested in the establishment of a
-bank in the city of Quebec, held a meeting at
-the Exchange, and drafted articles of association.
-The document is headed, "Articles of
-Association of the Quebec Bank," and consists
-of twenty-five sections. No. 3 provides that,
-for the good management of the bank, there
-shall be thirteen directors; No. 6, that there
-shall be no recourse upon the separate property
-of any shareholder. Other sections severally
-provide for the issue of notes; the calling-up of
-the capital, which is to be £75,000; the term of
-the bank's existence; and its dissolution. The
-bank is now in its sixty-seventh year.
-Distinguished men, legislators, lawyers and
-merchants have served on the directorate. During
-the term of its existence it has been exposed to
-severe financial storms; it has weathered them
-all, preserved its capital intact, and has paid
-several millions in the shape of dividends.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>At the first meeting of the shareholders, which
-was held on the 7th September, 1818, the
-following gentlemen were elected to serve on the
-board of directors, namely, John W. Woolsey,
-Thomas White, J. McCallum, John Jones,
-Charles Smith, Louis Massue, Jean Langevin,
-Henry Black, Ph. Aubert de Gaspé,
-W. G. Sheppard, John Goudie, Etienne Lagreux,
-and Benjamin Tremain. Mr. Woolsey was
-elected president, and Mr. White, vice-president;
-and the Board engaged the services of
-Noah Freer, as cashier. Mr. Freer held a
-commission as captain in the army; he had seen
-service, and had been military secretary to Sir
-George Prevost, during the war of 1812.
-Steady-going merchants may have shrugged
-their shoulders and questioned the wisdom and
-propriety of appointing a soldier to such a
-position; but Captain Freer took kindly to the
-business of civil life. He was accurate, precise,
-and methodical in all he did; and a courteous
-gentleman in his intercourse with the public.
-The customers of the bank were men of high
-standing—including the leading officials of the
-capital, namely, the Governor-General, the
-Bishop, the Commander-in-Chief, legislators and
-lawyers, in addition to the regular commercial
-clientele. Holograph cheques of all its principal
-customers since 1818 have been carefully
-preserved in the bank, a review of which is almost
-as interesting as a cursory perusal of the annals
-of the city.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>That able jurist, the late Honorable Andrew
-Stuart, was appointed legal adviser; and he
-appears on several occasions to have steadied
-the directors, and guided them into a course of
-safety.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>In the absence of an "Act of Incorporation,"
-the shareholders no doubt incurred unlimited
-liability to the depositors and share-holders; but
-application was made to Parliament for a charter,
-and an "Act of Incorporation," extending the
-existence of the bank to 1831, was passed in
-1819. This Act received the Royal assent of
-George IV. on the 16th September, 1822. At
-the expiration of the term, the charter was
-renewed, and extended to the 1st August, 1836;
-and, by a subsequent Act, to the same date in
-1837. That year constitutional government
-was suspended in consequence of the disturbed
-state of the Province; and all the powers and
-privileges of the bank expired by the effluxion
-of the time limited by the Act of Incorporation.
-The directors were at a loss what course to
-pursue under the circumstances. They thought
-seriously of winding up the bank. In 1838 the
-government of the country was vested in Sir
-John Colborne, as Administrator, and a special
-council held in the city of Montreal. The same
-year, the Habeas Corpus Act was suspended,
-and an ordinance was passed authorizing the
-incorporated, chartered, and other banks in the
-Province to suspend the redemption of their
-notes in specie till the 1st of June, 1839—limiting
-the circulation of each bank to the amount
-of its capital stock actually paid up. It was
-further enacted that all specie then held by the
-bank should be retained, and should not be
-sold, excepting to Her Majesty's Government.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Political disturbances having been quelled,
-trade revived, and all thought of winding up
-the bank was abandoned. To supply the
-absence of silver, the bank, in addition to its
-ordinary issue, issued notes of 15d., or 30 sous,
-and 2s. 6d., or 3 francs; and the several banks
-struck off a copper currency for the convenience
-of the public. The suspension of specie
-payments lasted three years.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>In the absence of Parliamentary authority
-for the existence of the bank, the directors we
-readvised to apply for a royal charter, and Captain
-Freer, the cashier, was deputed to proceed to
-England, for the purpose of communicating
-with the Home Government on the subject.
-Captain Freer was well received by the authorities,
-and every assistance was rendered to him
-in furtherance of the object of his mission. A
-royal charter was granted with authority to
-apply to Parliament for a renewal as soon as
-constitutional government should be restored;
-at the same time the authorized capital of the
-bank was increased to £100,000.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Several changes had taken place in the personnel
-at the Direction since 1818. In 1823,
-Mr. W. Sheppard was elected president; in 1832,
-Mr. Charles Smith; in 1838, Mr. John Fraser;
-and in 1842, Mr. James Gibb. In 1852 Captain
-Freer retired from the service of the bank upon
-a pension, having held office for thirty-four
-years. In 1848 Sir N. F. Belleau was elected
-a director. He has since been a constant
-member of the Board, and punctual in his attendance,
-even while he held the office of Lieutenant-Governor
-of the Province of Quebec. On the
-death of the Honorable Andrew Stuart, the
-Honorable Henry Black was appointed legal
-adviser; and on his assuming the duties of
-Judge of the Vice-Admiralty Court, he was
-succeeded by the Honorable George O. Stuart,
-the present Judge of the same Court. J. C. Vannovous,
-Q.C., held the office till his death,
-and was succeeded by the present legal
-advisers of the bank, Messrs. Andrews, Caron &amp;
-Andrews.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Mr. Charles Gethings, a man of inflexible
-integrity of character, was appointed to fill the
-office of cashier, vacated by the retirement of
-Captain Freer, and under his management, and
-the careful supervision of the president,
-Mr. Gibb, who was rarely absent from the office, the
-bank continued to pay its dividends, namely,
-in 1853 at the rate of 7 per cent. per annum:
-in 1854, 7 per cent.; 1855, 7 per cent.; 1856,
-7 per cent.; 1857, 6½ per cent.; 1858, 6 per
-cent.; 1859, 6½ per cent.; 1860, 7½.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>In 1860 the president, one of the oldest and
-most esteemed merchants in the city, died,
-deeply regretted by the whole community, and
-Mr. W. H. Anderson, the vice-president, was
-elected president in his place. The following
-year Mr. Gethings, the cashier, retired upon a
-pension; and Mr. William Dunn, a gentleman
-well qualified to fill an important place in any
-bank, was appointed his successor. The bank,
-under his management, continued to pay
-dividends, namely, in 1861, 8 per cent; 1862, 8 per
-cent.; 1863, 7½ per cent.; 1864, 7 per cent.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>In 1864 Mr. David Douglas Young, a leading
-and highly esteemed merchant, who had served
-several years on the directorate, was elected
-president. Mr. Dunn, the cashier, retired soon
-after his appointment, and was succeeded by
-the present general manager, Mr. James Stevenson,
-in December, 1864.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Since the death of Mr. Young, which happened
-in 1869, the Honorable James G. Ross
-has been president of the bank, and
-Mr. William Withall, vice-president.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Such, in brief, is the history of this old
-institution, the doors of which were opened for
-business in 1818, in a small house in
-Sault-au-Matelot Street. Some years afterwards, a
-portion of a commodious building erected by
-the Quebec Fire Insurance Company, in Peter
-Street, was occupied by the bank. But in 1863
-the directors resolved to have a building of
-their own, and they purchased from Mr. H. Atkinson
-the site upon which the present handsome
-banking house is built. A certain historical
-interest attaches to almost every spot
-and locality in Quebec; and to none more so
-than to that very site. There, on a cold stormy
-December morning, in 1775, when the
-simultaneous assault on Quebec was made by
-Montgomery and Arnold, stood a small body of
-resolute men, ready to sacrifice their lives in
-defence of the city. While the life of
-Montgomery was ebbing away with the flow of his
-blood at Cape Diamond, Arnold was advancing,
-with a comparatively formidable force, from
-St. Roch's, upon Sault-au-Matelot, a little lane not
-over twelve feet wide, opposite the site of the
-bank. It is not too much to say that the fate
-of Canada, as a dependency of Great Britain,
-hung upon the issue of the impending contest
-in the lane. The struggle was a desperate one.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>It lasted several hours; but the repulse was
-complete; and Arnold, carried off wounded,
-retired with the remnant of his force upon the
-General Hospital, the head-quarters of the
-Americans, which they held till the siege of
-Quebec was abandoned in the following month
-of May, 1776.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="horse-boats-and-ice-boats"><span class="bold large">HORSE BOATS AND ICE BOATS.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>Near the site of the old convent just
-described, we used to embark on a horse boat to
-cross to Levis in summer, and in winter a canoe,
-managed by expert boatmen, who paddled
-their way through shoal ice, and, on reaching
-any large piece, with wonderful strength and
-skill raised the canoe and pulled it on the ice as
-we do a sleigh. These boatmen were so inured
-to their work that an accident rarely happened.
-But there are records of a whole canoe full of
-people being swamped. Fortunately a regular
-service of ice boats exists in winter now, and
-with rare intervals (some extraordinary storm)
-with as much regularity as the summer ferry
-boats.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Some of my young readers may never have
-seen a horse boat, so I will tell them they
-looked like some of the very small steamboats,
-but the machinery was put in movement and
-carried on by horses attached to a pole in the
-centre and walking round and round.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Previous to the year 1857 there were no
-other means of crossing to Levis but by the
-canoes, when Capt. Semple chartered a boat,
-which ran up to December, as it could only
-go through floating ice. But an enterprising
-gentleman, the recently deceased Mr. Tibbits,
-talking over the matter with a young relative
-of mechanical genius, made out plans for
-machinery, had them sent to Montreal, made
-here and sent on to Quebec, were fitted up
-and at once proved successful, and thus in
-the year 1862 started his passenger boat, "The
-Arctic," which would cut through the heaviest
-ice and became a perfect success. I copy from
-a newspaper the following notice of Mr. Tibbits,
-who died March 26, 1889:</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>"On Friday last the mortal remains of the
-late James Tibbits were committed to their last
-resting place in Mount Hermon Cemetery.
-For many years the deceased was a prominent
-figure in the mercantile community. He was a
-man of great physical and mental energy, and
-of unbounded enterprise, always willing to risk
-in public enterprises the money with which
-many of his ventures were crowned. One
-lasting monument of his enterprise and ability
-remains to us in the excellent ferry service we
-enjoy with the South Shore. He was the first
-to demonstrate the possibility of a steamer
-cutting its way through the masses of ice which
-obstructed the navigation opposite the city
-during the winter. Like many others of our
-enterprising merchants, Mr. Tibbits died poor.
-Quebec owes his memory a debt of gratitude,
-which might well have been slightly repaid by a
-public funeral. It is, however, such a long time
-since Mr. Tibbits resided in the city, the
-generation that succeeded are hardly aware of the
-services rendered by the deceased. It is not
-fitting, however, that they should be lost sight of."</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The ferry boats, summer and winter, land you
-in close proximity to the railroad, and carriages
-take you west towards St. David or east to
-St. Joseph. After driving up a very steep hill you
-come to a road branching off to the west beside
-which is the little old English Church and
-Cemetery, the former being now renewed under the
-supervision of its popular pastor, Rev. Mr. Nicholls,
-grandson of the much-esteemed Bishop
-Mountain. Higher up and last is the Roman
-Catholic parish church, a monument to the zeal
-and perseverance of the late Rev. Mr. Dalzeil.
-Almost a riot was in the parish when he asked
-for it to be built of its present size, but with
-far-seeing wisdom he insisted, and now it is crowded
-to overflowing though two other churches have
-been built in the space of the last few years.
-Levis also possesses a fine college in this locality.
-On the summit of the hill called rue des
-Marchands is a very handsome and spacious store
-and residence belonging to Mr. Couture, and
-opposite to it is a tiny little building kept in good
-repair, though unused, which Mr. Couture tells
-you with pride is the shop where he first earned
-the shillings which were to end by making him a
-millionaire. Mr. Edouard Couture carries on the
-business in the same place now, but the
-Hon. Geo. Couture, Senator, sleeps under a handsome
-obelisk in Levis Cemetery. The noblest monument
-that exists to his memory, however, is the
-beautiful church, built by money left for that
-purpose in his will, adjoining the splendid
-hospital, built within about ten years, to which
-he contributed so largely during his lifetime.
-One of the head ladies of the institution (a
-very old friend, sister-in-law of our well-known
-citizen, Hon. P. Casgrain) took me through
-this building about a week ago, and I was
-astonished to find it almost filled already. The
-poor, the crippled, old women, young children,
-have here a comfortable home, with delightful
-surroundings, and on a height and with
-a view of the Citadel, Quebec.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>When Mère St. Monique asked me to go and
-visit the Catacombs under the church, I decidedly
-objected, but Josephte, as I called her in
-our youth, always would have her way, and I
-am glad she did so here, for I do not know
-whether similar places for burial are existent
-elsewhere in this country or only a new creation
-in Canada, but I am glad I went into them.
-This seems to be the perfection of burying.
-Leading me through a long light passage under
-the church, we came to a very heavy iron door;
-then on its being opened a second appeared
-with its blank emblems and death's head and
-cross bones, sufficiently indicative of where we
-were going. Entering this door Mère St. Monique
-struck a light, and we found ourselves in a
-fire-proof brick chamber and passages. On every
-side shelves to hold one coffin. There is only
-one occupant so far—Mr. Gingras—but there
-are places for ninety. The coffin is placed on
-a shelf just large enough, then masoned up,
-and the name put on the masonry. A great
-improvement on old-fashioned vaults, as all
-possibility of disturbance is precluded and no
-danger from foul air. This building is under
-the High Altar, so to a devout Roman Catholic
-much of the feeling of gloom is taken away. A few
-miles west is St. David's Church, a pretty new
-edifice, and further on at the village of
-St. Romuald, St. Romuald's Church, so filled with
-choice paintings and works of art by its late
-Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Saxe, it has become quite
-a worthy show place for our sight-seeing
-American friends. The Rev. Mr. Saxe was of
-such clever wit and genial presence, he
-exercised great influence over those with whom he
-came in contact. I remember saying how
-proud his parishioners must be of this lovely
-little edifice. "They well may be," he said, "it
-has hardly cost them anything for all these works
-of art. I made the old country, that could
-afford it, give them, you know. I travelled
-in Europe for contributions, and impressed on
-each community how necessary it was that each
-city should give of its best—something to
-redound to its own credit, and I got it," the old
-gentleman said with a merry twinkle in his
-eye. So much, my friends, for tact and a
-knowledge of human nature.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="beaumont-st-thomas"><span class="bold large">BEAUMONT—ST. THOMAS.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>Previous to the year 1853, or thereabouts, there
-was no railroad below Quebec, and vehicles were
-the only means of transport; but when time and
-means permit, it is surely the most agreeable of
-all ways of travelling. We were frequent visitors
-at Crane Island, and our downward drive to
-St. Thomas, where we took sail boat to cross, were
-in the habit of stopping at various way-side
-houses, not inns, simply neat commodious places
-where we were always expected and welcomed,
-and sure of a meal and bed. One of these was
-the Fraser House at Beaumont: it still exists,
-but sadly deteriorated, and occupied by a
-French farmer and family. It is a very long
-low house in a very small quiet country village,
-prettily situated with a view of the St. Lawrence.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>On one occasion my husband and myself drove
-up to the door. "Welcome!" (we were frequent
-visitors) "but it is well you did not come a few
-days sooner. Who do you think has just left?
-Lord and Lady Elgin,"—and I forget whether
-she said any children. "Come, and I'll show you
-the room as I arranged it for Lady Elgin." If you
-have never, my readers, seen a genuine
-old-fashioned habitant bedstead, I would almost
-fail to impress you with its height; you could
-not possibly get into it without standing on a
-chair, and two of these were placed side by
-side, taking in one whole side of a room, with
-the long white curtains pendant from a rod
-attached to the ceiling. I can hardly think of
-it now without smiling. Of course, it must
-have been for the novelty of the thing that Lady
-Elgin used it instead of having one brought
-from Quebec. Perhaps one gets so tired of
-formality and grandeur, a change becomes a
-welcome relief. We said we had but twenty
-minutes to stay, and must have lunch at once.
-In about ten minutes we had a most delicious
-fricassee of chicken in white sauce. On
-complimenting Mrs. Fraser, she said, "I learnt how to
-make that from Lord Elgin's cook, and was I
-not smart? those chickens were running about
-when you came." That spoilt all, ah—if she only
-had not told us? There are numerous pretty
-villages all along the south shore. None prettier
-than that of St. Michel, adjacent to Beaumont.
-It much resembles Kamouraska, though much
-prettier as the foliage is so lovely.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="st-michel"><span class="bold large">ST. MICHEL.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>St. Michel is a delightful summer residence,
-about fifteen miles from Quebec, reached
-directly by steamer every day, or by railroad
-a few miles from the village.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>We resided there for a couple of years, and
-then made the acquaintance of the Rev. Mr. Drolet,
-who with his mother and sisters
-tendered us such kindly hospitality. The
-Parsonage became to all of us a Maison Paternelle,
-for the family all spoke English as well as
-French, and the genial curé, a very clever and
-devoted priest, was in his home an admirable
-host. I shall have occasion elsewhere to speak
-of him. I will conclude this article with a few
-verses I found lately, written on the spur of the
-moment from the circumstance of one of the
-ladies nearly falling through a trap door into
-the cellar of the dining-room of the
-old-fashioned house we then occupied.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="a-chronicle-of-st-michel"><span class="bold large">A CHRONICLE OF ST. MICHEL.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span class="medium">A REMEMBRANCE OF HAPPY DAYS.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<!-- -->
-<blockquote>
-<div>
-<div class="line-block outermost">
-<div class="line"><span>It was a winter evening,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>The moon was shining bright,</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>When from a lady's parlor</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>Came sounds of laughter light.</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>But, suddenly, the scene is changed,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>There's heard a warning shriek,</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>And borne upon the air the words,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>"Oh! dear, will no one speak?"</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>Unheeding trap, just at her feet,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>Comes with majestic mien</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>A damsel of sweet presence,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>And smiling all serene.</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>Her eyes are like the glowworm,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>Her cheeks like damask rose,</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>She holds her head so loftily,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>She looks not at her toes;</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>When, roused from contemplation sweet</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>Of bottles ale and stout,</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>A head above the trap appears—</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>"What's all this row about?</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>I see, I see, Miss Flora, dear,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>You'd all but tumbled down;</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>One further step, and you'd have fall'n</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>On my unlucky crown.</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>Oh! had you tumbled on my head</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>In yonder cellar well,</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>We now, alas, been both quite dead"—</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>A sad old tale to tell.</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>How youth and beauty often fall</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>Into some snare unseen,</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>As so hath chanced in many a day</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>And yet full oft I ween,</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>While thoughtless youth with eager step</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>Pursues its heedless way.</span></div>
-</div>
-</div>
-<div class="line-block outermost">
-<div class="line"><span>MORAL.</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line-block outermost">
-<div class="line"><span>Then damsels all who hear my tale</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>Hold not your heads so high,</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>A downward glance give now and then,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>Hid dangers to descry.</span></div>
-<div class="line"> </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-</div>
-</blockquote>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>We arrive at St. Thomas after a forty miles
-drive, and stay over, if the tide does not serve
-for coming, at Madame F.'s well-known hotel—not
-far from which is the residences of the
-late Sir Etienne Taché and Mr. Bender,
-father of the present well-known Boston
-physician, Dr. Bender.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>A short distance from here is the house now
-occupied by E. P. Bender, formerly owned by
-Mr. William Patton, a splendid specimen of
-an English gentleman. A lumber merchant,
-doing a large business with ample means, his
-house was the home of generous hospitality. It
-is thirty years since I visited it or more—it then
-gave you an idea of one of England's far-famed
-country homes; Everything handsome, well
-ordered grounds, its steel grates (then a novelty),
-and handsome paperings, a host so courteous,
-his wife a refined lady of the old school—all
-appeared to promise long years of happiness
-to its inmates, when in a day, alas! all was
-changed. Mr. Patton was most energetic in
-his efforts to hasten the building of the
-railroad from Quebec to St. Thomas, and went
-into town to see Messrs. Morton, Peto &amp;
-Brassey, when he met his fate. Overheated
-by his exertions, he lay down to rest opposite
-an open window facing the St. Lawrence, a
-gale sprung up, he got a chill, and in twenty-four
-hours he was dead, of inflammation, before
-his wife could reach him, and yet she arrived
-almost in time, due to a mysterious warning of
-some kind, I forget what it was—she told me of
-it herself.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Sitting quietly in her room she heard or saw
-something, and, convinced that her husband
-needed her, she ordered a carriage, and, despite
-all remonstrance, drove all night, and passed in
-the darkness the carriage sent for her, and
-arrived in the grey dawn of morning to find her
-husband just dead.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>How many such unaccountable occurrences
-happen. I could tell of at least six such
-experiences in my own history. My theory is this,
-that under certain conditions thought meets
-thought, and so mesmerically impresses on the
-loved one its own yearnings and wishes.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Previous to Mr. Patton's purchasing it, this
-house had been occupied by several families of
-note, the De Beaujeus, Olivas, etc. It was
-purchased a few years since by E. P. Bender, Esq.,
-who now occupies it with his family.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="second-visit-to-roberval-lake-st-john"><span class="bold large">SECOND VISIT TO ROBERVAL,
-<br />LAKE ST. JOHN.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>I was unfortunately prevented from visiting
-Roberval until late in the season—in fact, only a
-few weeks before the hotel closed—but I saw
-enough to confirm my first impressions as to
-its desirability as a summer resort for people
-who really need to recuperate after the wear
-and tear of town life. It was late in August, a
-cold spell was on; we arrived per railroad on
-Pullman car, which brings you to the very gate
-of the hotel premises. A dull heavy rain came
-down as we got off the cars, but what of
-that? you are ushered into a hallway where burns a
-generous grate fire. Courteous officials greet
-you and inquire your wants. Shown to a
-comfortable bedroom, and then to a supper as good
-in quality as meals served in most town hotels,
-with excellent attendance, you fancy you are in
-fairy land, as, gazing on the wild country around,
-you remember that this locality a few years ago
-was not even inhabited by farmers, but all was
-bush. Ushered into the ladies' parlor you are
-greeted by a most winning hostess, Mrs. Scott,
-daughter of the Honorable Mr. Shehyn, who,
-residing here at present with her children, does the
-honors, and welcomes you as if to her own
-private parlor. The season was so nearly over
-there were comparatively few guests, but those
-of the most pleasant—Dr. and Mrs. Lovely,
-Rev. Mr. —— and his wife, and several members of
-the Beemer family, who by their musical talents
-contributed largely to our enjoyment. Roberval
-I am sure has a grand future before it.
-Dr. Lovely, one of the most eminent physicians of
-the United States, assured me that he had
-discovered coal-oil there, not five miles from the
-hotel, and also some stone (I forget what) of
-which he was taking specimens away with him.
-He said if it was what he thought, it would
-indeed be a bonanza.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>It appears to me that Roberval would be
-especially beneficial for those suffering from
-nervous exhaustion or debility, or tendency to
-consumption. The pure mountain air, the quiet, the
-absence of rush and excitement, must surely be
-most grateful to such parties, while for those
-who want a livelier existence, the trips in
-excursion steam-boats, the visits to various other
-fishing grounds, the power of jumping on the
-railroad that comes to your door and whirls you
-off for a few hours to other lakes, is a matter
-not to be lost sight of. Added to the perfect
-inside comfort of this hotel—baths on your
-bedroom flat—the immense piazza runs the full
-length of the building, affording in wet weather
-an excellent promenade, with a view of the
-lovely lake, and what I much appreciated was
-the absence of the horrid gong calling you to
-meals. Here you are told the time for meals,
-and if you so desire a civil waiter calls you at the
-hour you name, but the fearful din that
-elsewhere rouses you from your pet morning sleep
-is absent.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Entering the ladies' parlor in the evening
-you feel almost that you are in a private
-house. A bright fire burns in an open
-grate. Some fair lady is employing her talents
-at the piano in your service, and you enjoy some
-really good music, when one of the ladies asks
-are you to have a little dance or a small game
-of cards—the first at once, the latter when we
-are tired. After a short time small tables are
-brought in, the guests group into little coteries,
-each one retires when he will, after enjoying all
-the comforts of a home with the liberty of an
-hotel.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>I must not forget to state that at the village,
-about a mile from the hotel, is a Roman Catholic
-Church and fine Ursuline Convent, a delightful
-boarding school for young ladies, who enjoy
-boating every day and pleasant little trips to an
-island now belonging to the Nuns. There is
-also a telegraph in the hotel, and any amount
-of vehicles and horses and boats for visitors—also
-cheaper boarding houses in the village for
-those who require them.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>During the few days I stayed there, one or
-two funny incidents occurred. On one occasion
-I had an old man to drive me, when I said, "I
-hope it will not rain before we get home." "I
-hope it won't, indeed," he said, "I am not dry
-yet since yesterday." "How is that?" I asked.
-Said he: "I was out with that party from the
-hotel who when out fishing were so drenched, and
-the storm being so great I stayed by the hotel
-kitchen fire instead of going home to change;
-but, madame," as a sudden thought struck him,
-"you live at the hotel, is there a doctor living
-there?" Having been there only a few hours,
-I did not know, but inquired why he asked.
-"The fact is, I hear that when people come
-from Louisiana or Paris, a party of ten always
-brings a doctor with them" (a party
-recently arrived just numbering ten), "and
-hearing that I had a son ill, one gentleman said if I
-would take him to see my son or bring my son
-to him, he would try and cure him." "Well,"
-I asked, "have you done so?" "But no," he
-said, "he is English." (I spoke in French and he
-thought I was a French Canadian.) "What
-difference would that make?" "Why, madame, do
-you think the English know anything?" "Well,"
-I said, "perhaps a little; you might try the
-doctor." At the same time I was quite
-prepared to hear that he was a victim of some
-practical joke from his statement that every ten
-persons coming from Louisiana or Paris brought
-a doctor with them; I little expected the
-dénouement. "Oh! my son would not see him at
-all. He said, 'father, do you wish me to die
-at once?' But, madame, I would not have
-minded taking him to the doctor myself. You
-don't think that even though English he would
-have given him something to kill him at once?"
-"Oh! no," I answered, "I am sure he would
-not do that." But my story does not end here.
-On entering the parlor, where several were
-seated, I addressed a peculiarly pleasant lady
-near me, and began to narrate for their benefit
-my conversation with the old driver, when I
-noticed my hearer give a kind of warning glance:
-and then she went off into a merry peal of
-laughter as the door opened and a gentleman
-popped in his head. "Come here, my dear, learn a
-lesson of humility. This, my dear lady, is my
-husband, Dr. Lovely" (I have learned since that he
-is one of the most well-known of American
-physicians); "he is the Englishman, who can't
-know anything."</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The doctor, who enjoyed the joke, engaged the
-same driver next day to have his fun as much
-as anything. After a good deal of skirmishing,
-he elicited all from the old coachman, who,
-however, said, though English, if Dr. L——
-was a Roman Catholic, he might induce his son
-to trust him, as he believed that the little
-bottles he showed him really contained </span><em class="italics">des
-remèdes</em><span>. I know that the doctor explained to
-him that, though not a Roman Catholic, he
-attended nearly all the members of that
-denomination in the United States, and there was some
-kind of negotiation going on when I left. They
-may have come to terms, and the boy cured,
-despite himself. Perhaps this poor old chap,
-living for many years utterly isolated from
-civilization, might have the same horror of </span><em class="italics">Les
-terribles Anglais</em><span> that the English peasantry
-had of Napoleon the First, who, when children
-were refractory, were threatened to be given to
-'Bonaparte. And, now, as some of our English
-people may be hard on this old French-Canadian,
-I must tell you that the clergyman's
-wife, attached to some very prominent hospital
-in one of the large cities of the United States,
-said they came across sometimes very odd
-cases, and instanced that of a patient coming
-to the hospital, and, being ordered to take a
-bath, said he had never taken a bath in his life,
-and must go home and consult his wife. He
-went and never returned!!! This, in one of
-the largest cities of America. So don't too
-much despise the old backwoodsman's prejudice.
-As Mrs. Lovely most kindly invited me to pay
-her a visit, I may yet tell you more about this
-very true tale.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="st-leon-springs"><span class="bold large">ST. LEON SPRINGS.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>It is fully fifty years ago since my father
-took me to Three Rivers en route for St. Leon
-Springs. We were most hospitably received
-by Mr. Lajoie (father of the present dry goods
-merchant of Three Rivers), and his good lady,
-and Mr. Faucher de St. Maurice, father of the
-present gentleman of the same name. Of the
-party were, I think, Mr. Gingras, whose son,
-brother-in-law of Mr. Dorion, recently deceased,
-was the first I think to establish the reputation
-of these waters. After a sumptuous repast at
-Mr. Lajoie's, we were driven to St. Leon Springs,
-and this us what I remember of it then: a steep
-sandy hill, up which was walking a pale, thin
-young lady, whom my father pointed out to me
-as Miss G——; that lady has been in bed
-seven years, you see her walking now; whether
-the cure was permanent or not I have no means
-of ascertaining, but Mr. Campbell, late proprietor
-of St. Leon Springs, told me only two weeks
-since that he remembered Miss G—— perfectly.
-Mr. Campbell further told me since that his
-father had noticed the cattle drinking at this
-spring, and finding it had a peculiar taste, had it
-analyzed, and gave to the public this boon for
-the afflicted, and health-preserving drink for the
-sick. We had tea that day at the Springs on a
-deal table, without table-cloth, seated on wooden
-benches, while carpenters were putting the roof
-on a large building we sat in. I presume this
-was the first hotel, rather a contrast to that of
-the present day, which is yearly crowded with
-an increased number of fashionable visitors from
-all parts of the Dominion, in search of health
-or amusement. This hotel has been very lately
-enlarged and fitted up with every modern
-convenience. Parties leaving Montreal by the
-Canadian Pacific Railroad, and getting off at
-Louiseville, will find vehicles waiting to take
-them to St. Leon Springs.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>This lady just alluded to, Miss G——, was
-one of those peculiar patients one hears of in a
-lifetime, and, as all her near relatives are dead
-and few will recognize the initial, I will inform
-my readers that Dr. A——, one of my father's
-physicians (now deceased), told me that she
-was afflicted with a kind of fit—cataleptic, I
-think, they called it—when she fell into a
-state so closely resembling death that two of
-Quebec's most prominent medical men were
-about to perform a post-mortem examination
-on her, when the slight quiver of an eyelid
-proved her still alive, and on her recovering
-she told them that, though unable to make the
-slightest motion, she had heard and seen all
-that had passed, and Dr. A—— was exceedingly
-indignant that such a subject should have
-been sent to him as an ordinary patient, as the
-same thing might have occurred again. He
-was, if I mistake not, then residing in Halifax
-and he told me that all the instructions he
-received were to provide a suitable lodging for
-a nervous patient, who could afford to pay well
-for a quiet private residence. Accordingly,
-Dr. A—— persuaded a well-to-do Scotch
-farmer to take her as a boarder. For a time
-all went well, though she would go off into a
-sort of trance, when she lay apparently dead
-for perhaps three days and returned to
-consciousness, often cognizant of what had occurred
-during her semi-deathlike state. But on one
-occasion her second sight, if you can so term
-it, was so great, she terrified the old people so,
-they begged the doctor to remove her, saying
-she was no canny. The facts were these:—On
-one occasion Miss G—— fell into her
-cataleptic state, and the doctor not expecting
-her to revive before a certain time, said he
-would not call till the following Thursday. But
-on the Tuesday, receiving a summons from a
-very old patient, twenty miles distant, he
-decided on calling on her </span><em class="italics">en route</em><span>. The
-weather being rainy, he asked for a covered
-vehicle, and the only one procurable was a
-shabby, very old-fashioned waggon. In the
-meantime, Miss G—— awoke from her trance,
-and said, "the doctor is coming." "No," said
-the mistress of the house; "he is not coming
-till Thursday." "He is coming now," said
-Miss G——, "he is at the red gate" (a gate
-some distance from the back of the house, and
-too far for any sound to reach)—"what a funny
-carriage he has." When he really drove up in
-this queer-looking vehicle, the landlady was so
-scared, she uttered that exclamation, "she is
-no canny," and insisted that board should be
-taken elsewhere. I offer no explanation—let
-the savants do that—I only narrate facts I
-vouch for.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="my-second-visit-to-st-leon-springs"><span class="bold large">MY SECOND VISIT TO ST. LEON SPRINGS.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>Going by the Canadian Pacific Railroad to
-Louiseville, we took a trap awaiting at the
-station, and, after a drive over a rather
-pretty country road, arrived at St. Leon
-Springs. Alas! the season was over, only
-Mr. Thomas and his son, and Mr. Langlois, were
-there, and a few servants. Nevertheless, we
-saw enough to convince us what a delightful
-health resort this must be in summer. When I
-say health resort, I do not mean pleasure resort,
-though there is plenty of amusement for
-reasonable people, who would find pleasant
-companionship, dancing, music, drives, croquet,
-lawn-tennis sufficient for summer heat; but,
-we speak now of St. Leon Springs as a retreat
-for the really ill or convalescent, and as such it
-must simply be perfection. A large hotel, nicely
-kept, numerous bath-rooms, all fitted up with
-an abundant supply of St. Leon water for
-bathing, excellent meals, well-cooked and nicely
-served, as we saw even during our brief and
-unexpected stay (I have never eaten such
-perfect home-made bread as there), with the
-drinking of these health-giving waters, must
-surely be of incalculable benefit. Twitting
-Mr. Langlois on the supposition that perhaps
-in cities the St. Leon water is in part
-manufactured, Mr. Langlois told us a funny incident.
-He said, I think it was in Toronto, he
-overheard some one saying, as his trucks came in
-loaded with barrels: "I wonder how much of
-this is manufactured?" On the impulse of the
-moment, Mr. L—— gave a hint to the carters
-to dump the casks on the pavement instead of
-taking them through the yard.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>As anticipated, a policeman came up and
-remonstrated on impeding the sidewalk. Soon
-a crowd gathered. Just what Mr. L—— desired.
-When spoken to, he said: "Of course, it was an
-oversight, the water should have been taken
-into the yard; but as it was there, he would
-like to prove to the people assembled how
-genuine was the water, by tapping several
-barrels, and, igniting with a match the gas, said:
-"My friends, can any of you manufacture gas
-in water to burn like this?" Mr. L—— is not
-by any means a man you would credit with
-being a religious enthusiast; but I will never
-forget the solemnity of the act, as, raising his
-hand towards Heaven, he uttered these words:
-"He who made these waters can alone make
-the gas."</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Mr. Thomas, a wealthy gentleman, with his
-son, for health and occupation, takes the
-management here. The latter, quite a sport,
-drove us with his blood horses to the station, at
-a pace that made me tremble. There a grand
-old-fashioned coach with four spanking horses
-waits at the railroad station to drive you in
-style to the hotel. Come and try them, my
-fast American friends. I will conscientiously
-stick to the old-fashioned one-horse buckboard—not
-elegant and hardly comfortable, but very safe.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="st-raymond"><span class="bold large">ST. RAYMOND.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>About eight years ago my dear husband and
-myself took rooms for the summer with a
-Mr. Ignace Déry, a carpenter. The house, a very
-large one of many buildings, was prettily
-situated on the banks of the river. Facing the
-house an immense barn indicated the prosperity
-of the farm. In course of conversation I remarked
-to Mr. D. how astonished I was to find such a
-handsome church, fine shops, and a musical
-choir, with a thriving village, in a place we had
-only heard of a few years before. "You will
-be more surprised, dear lady," he said, "when
-I inform you that I came here fifty years ago,
-a boy of fifteen, against my people's will, with
-another cousin, and broke the first road in
-what was all then bush." "How did you
-hear of this place at all?" "Well, from the
-Indians, and I went out with the surveyors and
-thought what a splendid place it was for a
-settlement, and said so, but my father would
-not hear of it. However, one day, my cousin,
-Joseph Déry, said to me after church, 'Have
-you decided on coming to squat or take
-possession and make an opening on these
-lands?' 'My family will not hear of it,' I
-answered. 'Well, then, come without their
-leave; if they see you succeed, they will
-be quite satisfied.'" So Déry and his cousin
-started off right after mass, the equipment of
-the former being a loaf of bread and piece of
-pork procured from his sister, whom he let
-into the secret, about half a bag of potatoes
-for seed, a hatchet, and his working clothes
-and a little salt. The boys walked out about
-fifteen miles: the one, my friend Déry, remained
-at the east end, his cousin at the west. These
-two houses now form the boundary in a certain
-measure of the village of St. Raymond. Mr. Déry
-told me his first occupation was to plant
-some potatoes, then build a small hut, and he
-said for food he had only to dip a line into the
-river back of the site of his house to procure
-all the fish he needed. On this he lived, with
-fruit and a little flour procured later. Such
-was the commencement of this prosperous
-village. The cousin, Joseph Déry, still kept
-a few years ago intact his first cottage, though
-building a comfortable house beside it.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 3em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span>ANOTHER PIONEER</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>In the autumn we moved for a month nearer
-the village, and occupied the house owned by
-Mr. Beaupré. It was a commodious dwelling,
-neatly furnished, and on my remarking a
-rather nice bureau in my room, and inquiring
-if they had a cabinet-maker in the village, my
-landlady answered, "Oh! my husband made
-that himself, and, though never apprenticed to
-any trade, built nearly the whole of this house
-himself." and then the old gentleman, pointing
-to the other side of the river, said, "Do you
-notice, madame, that clump of trees; well,
-beneath that rock is a cavern which I
-discovered and made a residence of when, as a
-boy of thirteen, I walked from St. Augustine
-across the country to there, to see what I could
-do for myself. I had no near relations, and
-determined if possible, by squatting, to get a
-home. I built a projecting porch, and lived
-for many a month in that cavern. I earned
-my living by doing odd jobs for the farmers,
-who came from some distance, and helped to
-row them over in a scow to St. Raymond
-proper, now the village, to get their horses
-shod, and while waiting for their return, noticed
-how the blacksmiths worked; then it occurred
-to me how well a blacksmith would do on my
-side of the river (thus saving the crossing), and
-I commenced to learn, and here I am, the
-master of a comfortable home and several
-farms"—the reward of energy and favorable
-circumstances, which brought the railroad to
-their very doors, and with large stores opening
-for the supply of the railroad employees, and
-the influx of summer visitors, has made the
-desert blossom like a rose, and a charming
-village (the intersecting waters spanned by a
-pretty bridge), spring in a few years from the
-bush.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Mr. Panet, advocate, and his charming wife
-are residents here. Mr. P., representative
-and nephew of Mrs. Shakspeare, wife of General
-Shakspeare, daughter of Bernard Panet, of old
-Quebec memory.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 3em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span>OCTOBER 28, 1890.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>I have just returned from St. Raymond and
-learnt some additional facts anent the Dérys
-I found interesting, and detail them for public
-benefit. The daughter-in-law of Joseph Déry
-said her father-in-law was the first, except
-sportsmen and Indians, who had ever been to
-St. Raymond; a little pathway through the
-woods was their inroad. He started to find
-the River St. Anne, which runs through St. Raymond;
-he found his walk very fatiguing from
-Lorette, and arriving at the Cape, under which
-runs the St. John railway now, was delighted to
-find he was nearing his destination. He named
-the hill Cap Joyeuse, which name it still bears.
-On wishing to see the first cabin he had built, she
-said, by recent surveys, it would be situated in
-the middle of the river, as the waters of the St
-Anne river had gradually washed the bank away.
-The end of the first cottage built is still extant,
-every plank used in it being sawed by hand,
-and the portrait of Mr. Joseph Déry hangs on
-its walls.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="st-augustin"><span class="bold large">ST. AUGUSTIN,</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="medium">ABOUT 15 MILES WEST OF QUEBEC.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>I do not know that I ever heard much of
-St. Augustin in my earlier days, except as the
-residence of Mr. Gale, an oldtime school master,
-who fixed his residence there, and taught many
-of the (after) prominent men of Quebec. His
-wife, a prim little lady of wax-doll complexion
-and flaxen hair done up in frizzes, was quite a
-character as well as her husband. A very
-kind-hearted little lady she was, with a peculiar gift of
-hospitality, and her cakes and home-made wine
-were of wide renown. Mr. Gale had a taste for
-antiquities; a small museum, in great part
-contributions of curiosities, the gifts of his admiring
-scholars, was one of his cherished parlor ornaments.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>His was a school of the </span><em class="italics">ancien régime</em><span>, but
-in its best sense, though religiously a day was
-appointed for the pulling out of teeth, those for
-administering sulphur and molasses and other
-time-honored medicines, happily or unhappily
-exploded.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Nevertheless, Mr. Gale's was a thoroughly
-comfortable home, and his students had a true
-regard for himself and good wife, testified often
-in later years by his </span><em class="italics">anciens élèves</em><span> constantly
-sending him contributions of rare articles to add
-to his collection.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="st-andre"><span class="bold large">ST. ANDRÉ—NEXT PARISH BELOW KAMOURASKA.</span></p>
-<p class="center pnext"><span class="small">"In the days when we went gipseying a long time ago."</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>About seventy-five years ago or more a wealthy
-Englishman, John S. Campbell, came out from
-the old country and commenced a large business
-in lumber and ship building at the part of
-St. André called Pointe Sèche. Here he built a
-beautiful residence with every luxury and
-appliances then known, splendid walks in the
-shrubbery, beautiful gardens, and even a residence
-for a physician, as at that time there was
-a great deal of ship fever, and he employed a
-great number of workmen in his ship building
-and other mercantile business. He brought out
-his wife (with her lady's maid), who, accustomed
-to society life, must have been indeed startled at
-the contrast of her surroundings, for here she
-was virtually in a wilderness. It is true that
-previous to the railroad from Quebec to the
-lower ports, these same villages had much more
-life in a business point than to-day, for then all
-travellers stopped at the wayside inns, and there
-being no facilities for going or coming from
-Quebec, the shopkeepers who brought down in
-their schooners goods at certain seasons of the
-year did a fine business, and really large
-fortunes were made by many: an apt illustration
-of the truth of the vulgar old proverb, "that
-what is one man's meat is another man's poison,"
-for the railroad, which is such a boon to the
-farmers and those bordering its route, has proved
-utterly destructive to the old-fashioned inns and
-shops on the old route, for the transfer being
-solely by vehicles, a regular influx of travellers
-was expected and received, thus giving life to
-the village and current cash.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Mr. J. S. Campbell and his lady becoming
-after some years thoroughly disgusted,
-abandoned the place, and so swiftly, I many years
-after, about forty years ago, found a book
-belonging to the family in the disused dining-room.
-I heard from one of the family to-day
-who own this lovely property now, and use it
-as a summer residence (Mrs. Rankin of Dorchester
-street), that a caretaker had been left in
-charge of the property; if so, his conscience
-must have been very lax, for it was the custom
-of all those giving picnics at Kamouraska, who
-wished to do so, to use the house as well as the
-grounds, and to simply walk in at open doors and
-take temporary possession. Well, on one
-occasion my father-in-law's family had a kind of
-picnic, but, though going up to the Campbell
-grounds, had brought their provisions to a neat
-little wayside inn a short distance, from the mill
-and wharf built by the aforesaid J. S. Campbell;
-and as I always preferred a quiet read to those
-excursions (I fear I am naturally rather lazy),
-I said I would await their return at the small
-hotel—its quiet and cleanliness were very
-inviting. "But," said Mr. McP. (I think I hear
-the words as he addressed me often in fun),
-"Mistress Charlotte, if you stay behind, you
-are responsible for the dinner." I promised in
-good faith, and with a firm resolve of doing my
-duty, that all should be in order on their return,
-and, telling the landlady at what hour lunch
-must be ready, made arrangements for an hour
-of delightful repose, by ensconcing myself into
-the most cosy of sofas with an interesting novel.
-As the old grandmother's clock tolled forth the
-midday hour, it struck me I had better see how
-the dinner was progressing for the hungry folks
-expected soon. Fortunately, I did not delay,
-for, to my dismay, I found the lamb-chops put
-to boil, and the green peas frying in the
-frying-pan. By hastily changing their positions, I
-managed matters so as to disguise my carelessness,
-and so all was well that ends well.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>A thoroughly respectable house like the
-Campbell House, of Pointe Sèche, could not
-be without its ghost, and it's doubly guaranteed
-by having two of them: one a lady who is heard
-to moan and sob and say she was shut up from
-every one (it is presumed Mrs. C., who,
-instead of dying of ennui and country fare,
-took the more sensible plan of returning to
-England); the other, the apparition of a
-gentleman, supposed to have been murdered
-because he disappeared—a rejected suitor put
-on board a vessel by Mr. C. for making too
-violent love to a cousin and quarrelling with a
-more favored lover. I have exorcised several
-ghosts already, and would like to try my
-observations on those inhabitants of a higher, or,
-more likely, our earthly sphere, to whom the
-unoccupancy of this fine mansion might be a
-convenience.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="les-eboulements"><span class="bold large">LES EBOULEMENTS.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>So called from the tremblings of constant
-earthquakes, which with apparent volcanic
-action has thrown up hill after hill so steep. I can
-compare the ascent and descent to nothing else
-but a winter sleighing slide. In fact, the hills are
-almost perpendicular, and almost inaccessible to
-a nervous party, who in descending feels as if he
-must fall on the horse's tail, and ascending drop
-out of the cart behind. Yet to the young
-and active it is a wild, lovely summer resort, its
-unusual scenery presenting a most pleasurable
-and novel spectacle. In fact, my friends, if you
-have a desire to visit Switzerland and cannot
-compass it, just go to Les Eboulements, and very
-little imagination will help you to transport
-yourself there. Cradled in mist, perched on some
-rocky elevation, with the simple people about
-you, you can easily deem yourself in the land of
-William Tell. But, did I say simple? yes, with
-a spice of modern craft, for I well remember a
-friend being ill asking me, as it was a
-non-licensed place, to ask the landlady for a little
-stimulant of any kind, as she might give it to me
-instead of a gentleman. The answer to my
-demand was the query, "What would you have?" "Well,
-if possible, port wine," and a bottle of
-excellent quality was forthcoming, and also the
-remark, "if more is required, in fact, as much as
-is necessary can be obtained. We have plenty
-for our own use." As these people were great
-fish traders with St. Pierre Miquelon, in view of
-recent developments as to the smuggling
-business I have my thoughts, but as I believe in
-free trade between all nations, and I should
-think it no sin to smuggle myself, I do not
-condemn them.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Apropos of smuggling, a funny incident came
-under my observation. A young married cousin
-some years ago lived on the border dividing
-Canada from the United States, and while (with
-the fresh memory of the Fenian raids) countenanced,
-as was said, by the Americans, expressed
-great dislike to Brother Jonathan. He dubbed
-her a thorough Yankee, and she proved herself
-a very cute one. Well, these ladies had been
-accustomed under lax custom house discipline
-to drive over to St. Albans and purchase many
-effects, cotton especially, at a very much less
-price than on Canadian soil, and were very
-indignant when a new official was appointed,
-who openly boasted that no tricks would be
-played upon him. That was enough for my
-sprightly cousin. She arranged a plan with her
-sister, went over in a light waggon, and when
-stopped at the frontier by the aforesaid young
-clerk on her return, who, with many apologies,
-requested leave to search her vehicle, answered
-in a tone of impatience, "Well, search my
-waggon as much as you please, but don't wake my
-baby." She held in her arms a good-sized
-baby in long clothes, a heavy veil covering the
-face. The official searched and found nothing
-contraband. He was, however, very much
-disgusted to hear later that the baby was a mass
-of dress and cotton goods, and that Mrs. K., as
-she walked up and down the platform soothing
-her supposed infant, was inwardly chuckling
-over her clever trick played on the too confident
-custom house clerk.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="society-in-quebec-fifty-years-ago"><span class="bold large">SOCIETY IN QUEBEC FIFTY YEARS AGO.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>Fifty years ago Quebec was a prominent military
-station, and from that circumstance, as well
-as the fact that it counted amongst its members
-so many of the truly good old French families
-of the </span><em class="italics">ancienne noblesse</em><span>, there was then none
-of that petty jealousy between French and
-English. They had fought valiantly, but when
-peace was declared they shook hands heartily
-and became friends. The English reserve was
-tempered by French suavity, and as Captain
-Warburton, in his Stadacona </span><em class="italics">Feuilleton</em><span>, says,
-"There were such a number of pretty girls in
-Quebec, and so attractive, such pleasant
-manners, combining maidenly reserve with refined
-out-spokenness, they were irresistible, and some
-English mammas, it was said, murmured sadly
-when they heard their darling sons were to be
-sent to Canada, fearing they would be effectually
-captured, as they certainly would be, in the silken
-but enduring nets of the fair demoiselles;
-however, they must have been satisfied eventually,
-for the ladies of whom the military gentlemen
-deprived us of have done credit to their native city."</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Old Quebecers will remember Miss L., wife
-of General Elliot; Miss A., wife of General
-Pipon; Miss P., wife of General Shakspeare,
-and dozens of others; but I have before me
-at least twenty beautiful and accomplished
-ladies, our society belles who accompanied the
-red coats to England. What a different aspect
-Quebec wore when the military were first taken
-away! it seemed as if the silence of death
-reigned, and why all should have been taken
-has ever been an unanswered question.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Of people prominent in society in my early
-days were Mr. Lemesurier, Judge McCord,
-Mr. Berthelot (he gave me a French grammar, I
-remember, he had published; he was father-in-law
-of Sir Louis LaFontaine), Mr. Faribault, the
-Hon. John Malcolm Fraser, Mr. Symes, whose
-pretty and amiable daughter married the
-son of the Empress Eugenie's trusty friend,
-the Marquis de Bassano.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Besides the house occupied by the Hon. George
-Primrose, there was at that time but one
-small house used by the military, and now the
-site of the splendid residence of the
-Hon. Mr. Thibodeau, facing the Governor's garden. At
-the intersecting street facing the river is the
-old Langham house, still occupied by her
-grand-daughter, Mrs. T.; a few doors from
-there the residence of Chief Justice Bowen,
-whose ladies entertained a great deal, and
-one of whose daughters was the wife of the
-late Rev. Mr. Houseman.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>We will take a skip now to where Palace
-gate formerly stood, and watch G. H. Parke,
-Esq., a noted whip (father of Dr. Parke), and
-see him guide his tandem through one of the
-sally-ports to the houses of the members of the
-tandem, who could in vain hope to follow him.
-Mr. P., who delighted in guiding the club through
-most intricate places, had taken the measure of
-the sally-port and knew his cariole would pass
-through, and thus triumphantly headed the
-others, who feared to follow him. Should he
-read this account of his old exploit, I am sure
-it would yet bring up a smile.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The remembrance of this feat recalls a story
-I have heard of the time of the noted Chamberlain
-gang. There were no houses at one time
-between the grand house here and a large one
-opposite St. Patrick's church, at that time
-occupied by Miss or Mrs. M., an elderly
-lady of ample means, who occupied the
-present residence of J. Scott, Esq., formerly the
-home of Mr. Faucher de St. Maurice. This
-Chamberlain was the leader of a notorious gang,
-who for some time held Quebec in a state
-of terror; their rapacity, cruelty and audacity
-exceeded anything ever before seen, and they
-continued their course with impunity till a
-most providential circumstance caused their
-discovery. Well, one of their exploits was to
-get one of their gang into Mrs. M.'s as
-ostensible man servant to rob the house. Late at
-night one of the maids discerned a light in
-the basement and heard voices, indicating
-that there were robbers in the dwelling. She
-thought for a moment of trying to run and get
-help from the guard, but fearing that unlocking
-the back door might arouse the burglars, she
-decided on barricading the room in which her
-mistress slept, hoping to be able to call for
-help to some passer-by; but alas! none came;
-the robbers came up, quickly destroyed her
-barricade, and though she fought bravely
-with some fire-wood,—the only weapon at her
-hand—was overpowered, gagged, tied up with
-her mistress in a carpet, and so left for hours.
-When the milkman and butcher came and
-called ineffectually for admittance, the doors
-were forced, and they were released after much
-suffering; such was a sample of some of their
-exploits.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Leaving St. Patrick's church, nearly
-opposite this residence, we go on to and up
-Esplanade Hill, till we come to a pretty little
-church, and it was the sacrilege perpetrated
-here that was the cause of their discovery.
-Amongst other articles they had stolen a solid
-silver statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Every
-effort was made to trace the thieves, but
-ineffectually, till the curiosity of an old country
-woman found them out. Somewhere, I think, back
-of Point Levis, there lived a Canadian farmer,
-whose old domestic had become very much
-disgusted at the changed aspect of the home—from
-a respectable, quiet domicile it had become
-a most disorderly house; half intoxicated people
-coming in and out at all hours, arriving with
-carioles loaded with things kept out of her
-sight. She noticed that she was always sent off
-while they unloaded, and they made their way
-to a hut in the woods built for boiling maple
-sugar, and that huge fires were built, though no
-sugar was made. Finally, she followed the
-gang secretly, and went close enough to hear,
-though not to see, what was going on, and
-overheard these words uttered: "I am very
-sorry for you, my poor little virgin, but you
-must boil in the pot too. Ah! I'll keep this
-little finger to remember you by." Horrified
-beyond expression, the old woman returned
-swiftly to the house and kept a terrified
-watch; her master came in, and most of
-the men drove off; but the one whose voice
-she had recognized was so intoxicated that he
-fell into a heavy sleep, and out of his pocket
-fell the tiny silver finger of the statue. Seizing
-the first opportunity, she sought the parish
-priest and told him all. He at once connected
-the small finger with the recent church
-robbery, enjoined the most absolute silence on
-the woman, and advised her for her own sake
-as well as that of others to go about her work
-as usual and so excite no suspicion. In the
-meantime he communicated with the authorities,
-who wisely determined to make no display
-of their knowledge, as the silver was melted
-and all traces destroyed; but on the occasion
-of the next burglary, a posse of police
-instantly surrounded the place, and effectually
-captured in time the whole gang, several of
-whom were hanged.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>They owed their long immunity to the fact
-that several people of position were implicated.
-Some, against their will, too terrified to break
-from them. One man, on the scaffold,
-confessed that a young man unwarily brought into
-their meshes had begged leave to be permitted
-to break off from them on his taking oath never
-to betray them. A seeming acquiescence was
-yielded, and an appointment made to take a
-row on the river to negotiate where no one could
-overhear their conversation. As soon as out of
-sight and sound the man confessed he had
-silenced him effectually by a knock on the head
-and a pitch into the river.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Leaving the little church on the Esplanade,
-on reaching St. Ann, and turning to the left, at
-the top of Ursule hill, you find a double brown
-house, with peculiar pointed turret windows.
-Here I lived when about eight years old, but
-most distinctly do I remember its surroundings.
-Come in and sit with me in the end parlor
-window and I will point out to you Colonel
-(afterwards General) Macdonald, in his brave
-uniform, the picture of dignity, coming down,
-the steps of the building formerly occupied by
-Dr. Boswell; also the house where Dr. Lemieux
-now lives, some officers (Guards, I think) had
-their quarters, and pretty lively quarters they
-were. Most of these gentlemen were rich, young,
-full of fun, and quite regardless of consequences.
-One of their eccentricities was to insist on a
-favorite horse being brought in by the front
-door and harnessed in one of the large rooms
-off the entrance. I used to watch these
-proceedings with great glee. No doubt they paid
-richly for their whistle when settling day came
-with their landlord. But they could well afford
-to pay for their pranks.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Opposite this house, the door facing Ann
-street is still the solid residence, the home
-some years since of the much-lamented Judge
-Alleyne; in the early days I speak of, the
-house of Mr. Le Mesurier, a merchant then,
-but previously an officer in ——, and carrying
-a reminder of the same in an empty sleeve,
-a noble mark of valor.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>To be a good carver was then an absolute
-necessity, for all carving was done at table, and
-Mr. Le Mesurier piqued himself on always
-discharging this duty himself, which he did most
-skillfully by means of a peculiarly constructed
-knife and fork. Once seated at a side-table (I
-had been invited to tea with some of the
-younger members of the family), I watched him
-do so with great admiration. I do not recall
-precisely who else were there; but one figure is
-specially impressed on my memory, that of
-Mrs. Kerr (mother of the late Judge Kerr), a
-very stately lady in pink silk and high white plumes.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Mrs. Le Mesurier, although at the head of
-fashionable society, was one of the old-time
-good housekeepers. I think I see her now
-with her keys in hand, giving directions to some
-domestic. She had a large family—all popular;
-but the two special favorites were, I think,
-Miss Harriet, who is married to General Elliot,
-and Henry Le Mesurier, whose former lovely
-residence on the St. Lewis road still exists.
-He had a peculiarly winning charm of manner,
-inherited, as I saw in a very short interview I
-had with him, by his son George.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>I will now take you up the Esplanade and
-stop at a cut-stone house on the corner of
-St. Lewis road, once used as the residence of the
-Lieut.-Governor. It was conveniently situated,
-and there was great indignation expressed when
-the project was mooted of buying Spencer
-Wood, for, though in most respects suitable,
-many said it was too far, for those whose position
-entitled them to vice-regal entertainments would
-find horse hire a heavy tax. For, my friends, in
-those early days the almighty dollar was not
-worshipped as now; in fact, very few of those
-moving in the highest society were rich—good
-family, culture and education were the tests, and
-no amount of money would have introduced a
-vulgar person into the charmed circle; in fact,
-permission to subscribe to the Quebec assemblies
-was a matter of almost as great moment as
-admittance to old London Almacks. An instance of
-which may be found in this over-true tale told me
-by an aged aunt who knew all the circumstances.
-Briefly, it was this: A rich tradesman lived on
-Mountain Hill, who had a pretty wife, who, not
-content with every needful luxury for her happiness,
-must needs sigh for, to her, the unattainable
-(that was </span><em class="italics">entrée</em><span> to the castle). On one
-occasion a military gentleman of high position
-who owed this tradesman some money said he
-regretted the circumstance, and that if he would
-give him time he would do anything possible
-for him in return. "Well," said Mr. Blank, "if
-you could do something for my wife, I should
-not only consider the bill paid, but be grateful
-too." "What is asked?" said the colonel. "Just
-this: you see, sir, my wife is young, and has
-taken it into her foolish little head she must get
-to one of the castle balls. Could you get her
-in?" "Nothing easier, my dear sir; on my arm she
-can come in unquestioned." So grand preparations
-were made by the lady, and at the appointed
-time she went to the castle, triumphant,
-on her cavalier's arm, advanced to the
-door where the cards of admission were
-received, when the official in waiting said, "Enter,
-colonel, but Mrs. —— is not known here, where
-is her invitation?" Mortified to death, it was
-said that Mrs. Blank, unwilling to face the
-occupants of the ladies' dressing-room, turned and
-fled precipitately in her slippers and without her
-outward wraps, rushed home, and that chagrin
-and cold brought on a severe illness that
-resulted in consumption. On her death-bed,
-unable to forgive the wound to her pride, she
-made her daughter promise that, eschewing all
-thoughts of love, she would promise her to
-marry only a man of such position she would
-be able to look down on those who had snubbed
-her mother. Being young, rich and pretty, this
-young girl accepted an aged man of very high
-rank, refusing one of the finest young men in
-Quebec, of whom she was fond, and commenced
-a life of unhappiness with a gentleman who in
-his dotage made her live almost a recluse in
-the country, and dress up and go through the
-drill as if he were commanding still.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>His death finally rescued her from such a
-life, but by that time her nervous system had
-become so thoroughly unhinged, her mind gave
-way, and the last I knew of her was her being
-sent to the lunatic asylum, having no child or
-relative to care for her. A sad comment on an
-ill-placed mother's ambition.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>At the opposite corner of said stone house was
-a pretty little residence occupied at one time
-and owned by the late Major Temple, adjoining
-which was his father-in-law's residence, the late
-Hon. Chief Justice Jonathan Sewell. Both these
-houses still stand, but in vain I look for the
-pretty lace curtains, and the two parrots on their
-stands, calling to you through the bright flowers
-in the window of the late Major Temple's
-residence. As an old Quebecer I am ashamed to
-say that pretty house has been the one blot on
-the whole of Quebec's loveliest street. It has
-been turned into a petty candy shop, a couple
-of bottles of sweets, two or three sugar-sticks
-and halfpenny cakes, and a notice, "Registry
-Office for Servants," replaces the view of the
-parrots and flowers. Were I rich I should purchase
-the property myself, and for old times let some
-one occupy it who would keep up somewhat its
-former appearance. Such a thing would not have
-occurred in Montreal. The Montrealers have
-too much ambition for their city to let it
-deteriorate, and consequently property becomes more
-valuable every day. Why, to think Americans
-should have been permitted to carry off bodily
-the house where Montgomery's body was laid
-and are making a fortune out of it, having set it
-up as an Indian curiosity shop in some part of
-the States. Why not have done it here?</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Strolling on through the beautiful St. Louis
-Gate, past the new armory, certainly a credit to
-the old city, and past rows of handsome new
-houses, we come to a solid looking building with
-a golden lion sign. When I looked at it, I
-wondered if it was chosen to beguile the
-innocent into the impression that they were
-at the old chien d'or. It does not need that
-it has memories enough of its own, for here
-lived the late A. Joseph, Esq., and his
-amiable wife, one of the most charming of
-hostesses, and who gave us any number of
-pleasant parties, but almost every house on that
-street (then, as now, quite a fashionable one) is
-associated with pleasant recollections. The one
-just inside the toll gate on the left was then
-occupied by Capt. Charles Campbell, a retired
-officer of Her Majesty's 99th, I think, father
-of our old friend, A. C., joint Prothonotary of
-Quebec.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Mr. Le Moine, in his able work, "The
-Explorations of Eastern Latitudes," by Jonathan
-Old Buck, F. G. S. Q., so graphically depicted
-the Plains of Abraham and its surroundings,
-I can but touch on old personal memories,
-which as they please me in writing, for I live
-but in the past, may serve to amuse you, my
-readers, in an idle hour. I will now stop at
-Spencer Wood, and visit the pretty home of
-our favorite author.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The house at present occupied by Judge
-Bosse, Quebec, was fitted up in 1860 for Lord
-Monck, Spencer Wood having been burnt down
-on 12th March, 1860. Spencer Wood residence
-having been rebuilt and fitted up in accordance
-with the requirements of a permanently selected
-vice-regal residence, was successively occupied
-by the following parties:</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Sir Edmund Head, 1860; Lord Monck,
-1861; Sir N. F. Belleau, Lieut.-Governor,
-1867; Hon. R. E. Caron, Lieut.-Governor,
-afterwards Sir R. E. Caron, 1870; Hon. Luc
-Letellier, 1878; Hon. Theodore Robitaille,
-1879; Hon. Mr. Masson, 1884; Hon. Auguste
-Réal Angers, 1889, who married in April, 1890,
-Emelie Le Moine, daughter of the late Alex. Le
-Moine, who now resides there, Oct. 15th, 1890.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="spencer-grange"><span class="bold large">SPENCER GRANGE, RESIDENCE OF
-<br />JAMES MACPHERSON LE MOINE,
-<br />F.R.L.C.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>You drive through a pretty road, heavily
-lined with trees, but through the foliage discern
-a neat cottage at the left, frequently occupied
-by the pastors of St. Michael's church. On the
-right, facing the grass plots and bedded in trees
-stands a very pretty residence, quite spacious
-inside, and containing every comfort and
-elegance, presided over by a charming
-hostess and her daughters. Mrs. L., the most
-amiable of ladies, spares no fatigue in showing
-you all that can interest, and there is a
-great deal to see at the Grange. The parlor
-windows look on a lawn skirted with various
-trees, where many a wild bird makes its
-nest, and looking outwards, and listening to
-their varied notes, you could fancy yourself in a
-deep wood. From a pretty dining-room you
-pass through a passage lined with marble
-busts of the ancient heroes of Greece and
-Rome, into the grapery, where the heavy
-clusters of grapes look too lovely to be plucked.
-An aviary adjoins this, and at times the soft
-cooing of doves mingles with the other caged
-inmates and the notes of the wild birds in the
-adjacent shrubbery. All is so quiet here, you
-might fancy yourself miles from civilization.
-It is a fitting home for a literary man, and bears
-everywhere an impress of elegance and
-refinement. Mr. Le Moine has some very curious
-heads of rare animals and numerous trophies
-of the chase and rare birds sent by admiring
-friends. The odor of the new-mown hay and the
-varied scent of the flowers complete the charm
-of this pretty home. Amongst other curiosities,
-Mr. Le Moine has the original key of one of
-the city gates, which has been presented to him.
-It is a very ponderous looking affair.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="society-in-1854"><span class="bold large">SOCIETY IN 1854.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>We will take a stroll back, citywards, coming
-down the Esplanade, about the year 1850. We
-notice, as we near the Esplanade, the sound of
-the band in full force. The Esplanade benches
-are crowded with ladies. From the windows
-of many houses, spectators look on the gay
-scene; while lord and lady, cavalier and belle,
-pass to and fro to enjoy the military music and
-a chat with their acquaintances. The militia,
-in some measure, replace the regular army, but
-with a difference: the latter were, as a general
-rule, men of wealth, culture, travel, and leisure
-with little else to do but make themselves,
-agreeable to the ladies, which they did so
-successfully as to arouse the ire of the civilians.
-Even from the few houses that face the Esplanade
-alone, one, at least, and, as in the family of
-Sheriff Sewell (now occupied by Mr. Hunt),
-no less than three, if not four, were carried off
-by English officers; and from houses nearly
-adjoining went Miss Panet, Miss Healy, two
-Misses Motz, the handsome Miss Joly, Miss
-Bradshaw, Miss Maxham; and a few doors
-around the corner, on St. Anne street, Miss
-Ashworth.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Amongst the noted belles living on the
-Esplanade were the handsome Burrage ladies
-and the Misses Mackenzie, whose father
-met his death in a very sad manner. There
-was a house situated on the St. Louis road
-called the "H—— House," where (there
-being very large rooms to let for picnic use)
-were often held evening entertainments. On
-one occasion the bachelors gave us a ball there.
-It was a lovely moonlight night, but very cold,
-and, wherever there was little snow, glare ice.
-Mr. Mackenzie and his daughters drove out in
-safety to the door; but, on alighting, he slipped
-and broke his leg. Being a man beyond middle
-age, he never quite recovered. The shock
-was, I think, the prime cause of his death.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>C. E. Levy, Esq., occupied the house, former
-corner of St. Anne and the Esplanade. The
-first house opposite, on St. Anne street, was then
-the residence of Captain, afterwards Admiral
-Boxer, and the propinquity was so favorable,
-he induced the handsome daughter of Captain
-B—— to change her father's home for his.
-His widow now owns one of Quebec's most
-beautiful and costly residences on the St. Louis
-road. The house now occupied by Sir William
-Meredith was, when I was a child, the house of
-Judge, after Sir William Stuart. His daughter,
-most kindly I remember, sent me a doll, dressed
-in crimson satin, velvet and train, to represent
-Her Majesty. Its gorgeousness is still before
-me. The corner house above that was at one
-time occupied by Mrs. White, whose two handsome
-daughters married the brothers G——
-and another took captive a favorite army doctor.
-One, her pretty young niece, if I mistake not,
-Miss McG——, afterwards Mrs. B——, lived
-with her here.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Some years later one sees the erect, handsome
-old gentleman, Town-Major Knight, taking his
-daily stroll always arm-in-arm with one of his
-sons, as hale and hearty a year or two before
-his death as he was almost twenty years before.
-One of his daughters still resides in Quebec,
-the wife of our old but always young friend,
-Henry A——.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>It gives me so much pleasure to recall
-these old days, to people the streets of my old
-birthplace with dead and gone friends, who
-come up so vividly before my mental vision,
-I could sit for hours and bring them up before
-you; but to strangers this would be wearisome,
-so I'll only glance at one or two more, and then,
-with a few hasty memories of some of our most
-eminent Quebec gentlemen, turn from the past
-to the present. I cannot close without speaking
-of two gentlemen who occupied such a
-prominent place in gay society, Messrs. Angers
-and Lelièvre, lawyers, partners and near
-neighbors. We always looked to them for a
-succession of most agreeable entertainments. If I am
-not mistaken, at the time they lived on
-Haldimand hill, and before they purchased the
-St. Louis hotel, it was divided into two houses,—one
-occupied by that gay old gentleman, Mr. Burroughs
-and his family, one of whose handsome
-daughters, Cecil, not long deceased,
-married the Hon. Mr. Garneau; the other still
-lives, I think, in Paris (Mrs. Kimber). His son
-John, a very quiet looking gentleman, most
-unexpectedly carried off our great society belle
-at that time, the lovely Leda L., from
-numerous competitors, mother of Madame
-Masson, wife of the late Governor Masson.
-But if I go on to speak of all the pretty
-girls of which we could boast at that time,
-I should go on for ever, so I will present to
-you a slight sketch of some of our most
-prominent men. Of Hon. George Okill Stuart, Sir
-James Stuart, and Hon. Henry Black so
-much has been written that I will only mention
-their names, and give you a slight sketch of
-Mr. Faribault, a most genial gentleman, of
-particularly courteous manners, very literary, of good
-old French family, and universally respected.
-He lived in the old house on whose site is built
-that now occupied by his only child and
-daughter, who married Quebec's famous artist,
-Mr. Hamel. Mr. Hamel had a most particular gift
-for catching likenesses, demonstrated when quite
-a boy. He died unfortunately quite young,
-leaving a son and daughter, who with their
-mother reside in her father's old home.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Charles Gethings, son of Captain James
-Gethings, an Irish officer of the old 100th
-Regiment, was born in Bona Vista, Newfoundland,
-and came to this country with his father. His
-first residence was that occupied formerly by
-Hon. George Primrose. Captain Gethings was
-stricken with paralysis while mounting guard at
-Hope Gate, and died at the fourth house on the
-right hand going up towards the Fabrique. His
-son Charles, after being employed a short time
-in the Commissariat, then with Gillespie, Moffatt
-&amp; Co., Montreal, subsequently in the City Bank
-of Quebec, spent many years as manager of the
-Quebec Bank, Quebec, receiving to the day of
-his death a liberal pension from the Quebec
-Bank. A kind father, a scrupulously upright
-man, the family all honor his memory. He
-sleeps in St. Matthew's churchyard vault.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="new-year-s-day-1840"><span class="bold large">NEW YEAR'S DAY, 1840—IN QUEBEC.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<!-- -->
-<blockquote>
-<div>
-<div class="line-block outermost">
-<div class="line"><span>Old Time, with customary speed,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Has passed us on his flying steed,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>And once again a New Year's day</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Now greets us smiling bright and gay.</span></div>
-</div>
-</div>
-</blockquote>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>My young friends, I live so little in the present,
-so much in the past, I hardly know the customs
-of modern society, but I am not so totally out
-of the world as not to be conscious that old-time
-hospitalities on that day are quite relegated
-to the past, and happily the cake and wine
-given once so freely are no longer fashionable,
-for I think now with amaze of our ancient
-customs, and wonder how, having partaken of the
-lavish hospitality of these old days, any of
-our beaux could have got home without the aid
-of Dickens' traditional wheelbarrow. As it may
-amuse you I will just give you a picture of New
-Year's day as kept about forty years ago. Well,
-I cannot state what precise year, but one New
-Year's day the courtyard of the English Cathedral
-was a mass of glare ice, just like a skating
-rink, and no lady could go to service at the
-English cathedral without the assistance of a
-well-shod beau to help her to keep her
-equilibrium, and after service return with me to the
-home of one of our city belles. You will find
-the mother of the family in full dress, seated
-in a comfortable arm chair, a bright fire
-burning in the grate, magazine in hand, to while
-away the hour when the ready attendant will
-usher in the first visitor. A couple of young
-ladies beside her, in full dress, pink, blue or gray
-satin or silk décolleté, a heavy gold chain or
-valuable watch visible attached to a handsome
-gold watch hook on the side of the dress, a
-bouquet holder in one hand, and embroidered
-handkerchief and white kid gloves and numerous
-bracelets, they sit with all the indifference it is
-possible to simulate, till the announcement of
-Mr. A, soon followed by B, C, D, and E, till
-the room is so crowded only the compliments
-of the season can be exchanged before with
-a bow one gentleman gives place to another,
-and so numerous are the visitors in some
-favored houses, perhaps even eighty in a
-day, one of the family surreptitiously takes
-the names for future recognizance, and woe be
-to the unfortunate swain whom forgetfulness or
-too much occupation may have prevented from
-paying his respects; he will surely be left out
-of the list of invites for the next ball. And yet,
-poor unfortunate, he cannot leave the house
-without taking from the hand of the fair lady of
-the house a glass of wine, and that offer he was
-expected to accept perhaps at twenty or thirty
-houses. A year or two later it was considered
-bon ton to offer nothing in the parlor, but an
-obsequious waiter tendered ale, wines and other
-delicacies, catching the departing visitor in a
-parlor near the hall door. This was something
-better. A gentleman could refuse a waiter's
-demand—not so easily a lady's. Still later,
-about fifteen years ago, I well remember the
-Rev. Mr. Hébert, of Kamouraska, asking as a
-personal favor and a mark of respect to himself
-that none of his parishioners should offer
-temptation to the weak in the form of stimulant to
-New Year's visitors, and he very lucidly
-expressed himself in these terms: "You say some
-of you are advised by your physician to take
-wine, well, that is all right, and put your liquor
-beside your pills, and as you do not think it
-necessary to give physic to all your friends
-because the doctor orders it for you, neither do I
-think the tonic that may do you good necessary
-to sow broadcast to those to whom it may prove a
-bitter poison." This was particularly hard
-on a character in the village we had dubbed
-Monseigneur because he served a former
-Bishop, and being wealthy he piqued himself
-on bringing something new for New Year, and
-his last purchase had been a valuable liquor
-stand. He was heart-broken. Being a very pious
-man he was deeply chagrined to think he could
-not display his new purchase, till he was once
-more elevated to the summit of happiness by the
-suggestion that raspberry vinegar, lime juice
-and lemon syrup would look equally well in his
-fine caraffe.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="a-point-of-honor"><span class="bold large">A POINT OF HONOR.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>It must be fifty-two years ago fully when I
-first remember the house now occupied by
-Mr. O'Hare as a first-class private boarding house.
-Its rear faces the Citadel, its front looks into
-the barrack yard of the former barracks on
-St. Louis street, now occupied by Major Forrest,
-Well, this house was then occupied, and I think
-owned, by a very dear uncle, the late Charles
-Adolphus H. I say, I think owned, because I
-perfectly remember the rocks in rear being
-blasted to make a stable and the building of an
-extension with vaulting apparatus and so forth
-for the young people's recreation, and this
-extension adjoined the nursery where presided a
-female nurse of wonderful imaginative powers,
-who, when the twilight gathered, and we begged
-for stories, detailed for our benefit horror after
-horror—her only idea of entertainment for young
-children. Well, in the garret of this old house
-my dear grand-uncle found a large ledger, very
-strongly bound. On the outer pages were these
-words: "I implore whoever finds this volume
-to keep it until the year ——, when, if not
-reclaimed, then burn it unless he would incur
-the curse of a dead man, for by that time all
-interested and for whom this book is kept must
-be dead." The leaves were crossed with red
-tape, and every here and there sealed with red
-sealing wax, but by breaking off a bit of wax
-we could read a few words, and though I do
-not remember why, we seemed to associate
-their meaning with some record of the North-West.
-Devoured by curiosity, we young people,
-too afraid of the curse to openly destroy the
-seals, devised every plan to ascertain the
-contents, and one of them was to give the book
-to the younger children of the family as a
-play-thing, hoping they would break them open and
-the contents be exposed; but alas! one day my
-dear grand-uncle came upon the scene, fathomed
-our project, and put a stop for all time to our
-endeavors by putting said ledger in the stove, and
-watched it while it burnt. Was this absolutely
-necessary? Did the most rigid scrupulousness
-demand this? I don't know how others will
-answer. For myself, if I had the book before
-me now I would read its contents, and then
-judge whether I should divulge its secrets or
-not in the interest of the public. What a field
-of conjecture is open here! This book
-contained records of the North-West. Of what?
-Do you remember, my friends, an article that
-appeared in the papers very many years ago,
-saying that a voyageur had discovered
-somewhere in the far north an old white-haired
-gentleman, the Rev. Ebenezer Williams, who
-claimed to be the son of the unfortunate
-Dauphin, son of the decapitated Louis XVI.,
-and whose devoted followers had rescued from
-prison and substituted a pauper, and at great
-personal risk brought the unfortunate boy to
-America and placed him for safe keeping with
-an Indian tribe, and leaving documents to
-prove his identity should there ever appear a
-chance of his claiming the throne. But as years
-rolled on, and no prospect of his being recalled
-to the throne, and his protectors being dead,
-he had been educated as a clergyman and
-served as missionary till his death. In fact, it
-was only when on his deathbed these facts were
-discovered. Had this book—a very closely
-written volume—anything to do with him?
-God only knows!</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="country-post-offices-forty-and-fifty-years-ago"><span class="bold large">COUNTRY POST OFFICES FORTY AND
-<br />FIFTY YEARS AGO.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>Our ancestors must have been very honest in
-rural parts, and had unlimited faith in each
-other's integrity, judging by the early post offices.
-The first one I remember was that of Murray
-Bay, when on the arrival of the bag its
-contents were dumped on the floor and every one
-picked out the letters for themselves and friends,
-and enacted the part of voluntary carriers for
-their friends, and very curious were the articles
-then transmitted through the post office, the
-mail bags then doing the present express
-service. A relative told me that he was
-somewhere in the Gaspé district when the carrier
-arrived with the bags he had carried a long
-distance on his back, and using rather hard
-language at the unwonted weight of the bag,
-and curious to see what was the cause of this
-extraordinary weighty mail, when lo! out
-tumbled two immense wild geese, sent as a
-present by the Hon. W. H. to a friend. Fancy
-the dénouement and the wrath of the old
-Scotchman, who had borne the weight on a long
-tramp through a pathway in the forest.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>One of the most curious experiences I ever had
-occurred about ten years ago, when I went with
-my family to a rural summer resort. We were
-several miles from the post office, and had very
-steep hills to climb on every side, so I wished to
-kill two birds with one stone, and decided to go
-to the post office after church service. I did so,
-and inquired for a registered letter I expected.
-After a few minutes inquiry the maitre de poste
-said: "Yes, there is a registered letter for you,
-but I can't find it, but it is all right, it is in the
-book." "Well," I said, as the assistant was
-absent and might possibly have said letter in
-charge, "I'll call back after afternoon service." I
-did so, but again the letter could not be found.
-"You'll probably be passing in a week or so,
-won't you call in then, by that time I have no
-doubt we'll have it for you." "But," I said, "that
-won't do. I am a stranger here and need the
-money." "Ah! madame" (they were French
-Canadians), "we are very sorry to inconvenience
-you, and if you will say how much you need
-will be happy to advance you the cash, as by
-our books you are entitled to some." I could
-not feel angry with these simple people, they
-were evidently so honest and true. Yet, as I
-wanted my letter, with home news, as well as
-the cash, I proposed that we should make a
-search in the post office, which was also a shop
-of general merchandise. So, after looking
-through box after box, some suggested looking
-in the cellar, as an ill-fitting trap door with wide
-cracks was directly under the official desk. The
-cellar, however, did not contain the missing
-document, and I was almost in despair of
-recovering for some time my lost property, when
-a happy inspiration came to me, and I inquired
-if they sold envelopes. "Ah! oui, madame,"
-they did, and among the envelopes ready to be
-sold at about a cent a piece was my letter
-containing fifty dollars cash, which, minus my
-persistence, might have found its way into the
-pocket of some honest or dishonest purchaser.
-But all is well that ends well, and I parted from
-my post office friends with expressions of
-mutual regard, and fearing to do them harm,
-believing so fully in their integrity, I never
-spoke of the matter; but when, some years later,
-I heard the Post Office Inspector had made
-radical changes, I thought it was beneficial to
-the general public.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="the-subterranean-passages-of-the-citadel-of-quebec"><span class="bold large">THE SUBTERRANEAN PASSAGES OF
-<br />THE CITADEL, QUEBEC.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>In the year ——, the late lamented Lieut. Fayrer,
-ordinance officer, came to Quebec on a
-tour of inspection as to supplies needed
-(accompanied by his wife, Lizzie Henshawe, a cousin).
-He asked us if we would like to accompany
-him through the underground passages of the
-Citadel, very rarely open to visitors. We
-gratefully accepted the offer, and so well guarded
-was the secrecy of these premises, it was with
-the utmost astonishment the soldiers present
-heard that underneath their Citadel were miles
-of underground passages for transfer in case of
-siege, large rooms for the refuge of women and
-children, and places for the safe depositing of
-treasure. We accompanied him, and I remember
-going down stairs intersected with heavy
-iron doors and through long passages with only
-outlets for muskets to give light, then into
-large damp underground chambers for a safe.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>I cannot tell the length we went through of
-dark passage, but it was some considerable
-distance, and the rooms are quite large, I
-suppose capable of each holding fifty people. I
-have heard it said (but can't vouch for the truth),
-that these passages have an outlet on the
-St. Lawrence at one end, and the Martello towers
-at the other. I have no doubt such is the case.
-The underground passages are bombproof, and
-no sound can be heard from them. A soldier
-forgotten there once gave himself up to die,
-until he remembered he might be missed at roll
-call. Such was the case, and his life thus
-saved. The passages are underneath the
-Citadel at Cape Diamond, so called because at one
-time great quantities of an inferior diamond
-were found there. I remember when the Cape
-quite shone with them, and many old people
-have handsome jewellery made from these gems.
-There is one street of houses opposite the Cape
-about fifty-five years ago occupied by the following
-parties: the late Chas. Gethings, the late
-Col. Dyde, John Carleton Fisher, William Patton
-and Col. Gore, father of the present Countess
-of Errol. A small house on the off side,
-occupied by a waiter, is the spot where is the
-present High School of Quebec.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="the-first-st-patrick-s-society-in-quebec"><span class="bold large">THE FIRST ST. PATRICK'S SOCIETY
-<br />IN QUEBEC.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>Ireland, so prominent at the present time,
-especially appeals to favorable remembrance of
-all her true people, and it may prove interesting
-to many of my readers to hear something of
-the first St. Patrick's Society ever formed in
-Quebec. I therefore copy for public benefit the
-very interesting account of its first doings, given
-me by an old friend:—</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>"In the year 1836 a few Irish gentlemen met
-in a small house in the Upper Town market
-place to form a St. Patrick's Society without
-reference to church or creed, but merely for the
-purpose of rendering assistance to any of their
-countrymen who might be requiring help or
-advice. Those gentlemen present on that
-occasion were as follows:—</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The Hon. Dominick Daly, then Secretary of
-the Province.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The Hon. George Pemberton, merchant.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>The Hon. Mr. Cochrane, brother-in-law to Bishop Mountain.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Sir Henry Caldwell, Baronet.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Geo. Holmes Parke, Esq., merchant.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Charles Gethings, Esq., of the Bank, Quebec.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Edward Bowen, Esq., son of Judge Bowen.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Edward Ryan, Esq., merchant, and Mr. O'Meara, Custom House.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>"These gentlemen formed the St. Patrick's
-Society, and the subscription was to be five
-shillings each, annually. They also decided to have
-an annual dinner every anniversary. The
-first president was the Hon. D. Daly, and their
-first dinner was in a building where now stands
-the Russell House. The subscription to the
-dinner was to be six dollars, to make the
-meeting as select as possible, and to be paid out of
-the subscribers' own pockets without reference
-to the annual subscription. The next president
-was the Hon. George Pemberton, and that
-dinner took place in the Albion Hotel in Palace
-street. The third president was Sir H. Caldwell;
-they dined in the same building, the
-Albion. The fourth president was George
-Holmes Parke, Esq., who was annually elected
-president for the succeeding fourteen years in
-succession, and the dinners took place principally
-in the old chateau. To the anniversary
-dinners the presidents of St. George, St. Andrew
-and St. John the Baptist were invited as guests,
-as was also the heads of all military and civil
-departments. On one occasion in the old chateau,
-when over two hundred and fifty guests sat down
-to dinner, it looked well to see Geo. Holmes
-Parke, Esq., with the president of St. George
-on one arm, and the presidents of St. Andrew
-and St. John the Baptist on the other, walking
-up the long room to the head of the dinner
-table. There were a large number of subscribers
-to the Society, and the consequence was,
-although the subscription was small, it was
-enabled to do a multitude of good. The
-Society for many years got on admirably until
-other branches were formed, and then Mr. Parke
-did not take the same interest as he had
-formerly done. Notwithstanding, there never
-was an anniversary dinner given afterwards but
-Mr. Parke was invited to it as a guest, and given
-one of the most prominent seats at the table.
-Charles Gethings, Esq., I believe, followed
-Mr. Parke as president, and after him others whose
-names I have not ascertained. Of all the
-gentlemen that met to form the Society, Mr. Parke is
-the only one living. In 1840 Mr. Parke bought
-a large tract of land on the River St. Charles, a
-short distance from the Dorchester Toll Bridge,
-on which he had built a splendid mansion, and
-ornamented it with thousands of forest trees
-and circular avenues, iron entrance gates, stone
-pillars, etc., also beautiful quickset hedges on
-each side of the avenues kept neatly trimmed.
-In this house, which he called "Ringfield," he
-has lived for the last fifty years, and is still living
-in it. There is a splendid view from Ringfield.
-From St. Foy's church to St. Peter street in
-Lower Town can be seen almost every house in
-Upper Town, St. Roch and St. Sauveur.
-Down the River St. Lawrence can be seen nine
-miles, and from the hall door, before the trees
-grew up, could be counted fourteen parish
-churches, apart from the city or suburbs.
-Mr. Parke came to Canada in 1830, and is now in
-his eighty-fourth year. During his business
-career he did a large business, and in the
-course of twenty-five years he had built for
-himself seventy-six large ships by different
-ship builders, which cost and was paid for out
-of his office over three million of dollars, apart
-from his other business." This gentlemen is
-father of the present popular physician,
-Dr. Parke. Mr. Lemoine in his "Tourist's Note
-Book" says: "A very remarkable vestige of
-French domination exists behind the villa of
-Mr. Parke, a circular field house, hence the name
-Ringfield, covering about twelve acres, with an
-earthwork once about twenty feet high to
-the east, to shield its inmates from the shot of
-Wolfe's fleet lying at the entrance of the
-St. Charles below Quebec."</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="sillery-church"><span class="bold large">SILLERY CHURCH—THE PARSONAGE,
-<br />ONE TIME A RESIDENCE OF
-<br />SIR E. R. CARON.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>Sillery Church, beautifully situated above
-Sillery Cove (one of the best-known lumber
-coves near Quebec), has for its parishioners
-many families of note, foremost amongst whom
-were the Sharples family, well known for their
-Catholic piety and their active benevolence.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>At the time I first knew Sillery Church, its
-pastor was the Rev. George Drolet, a very
-fervent, energetic priest, who I fear lost his
-health in part from over zeal in the discharge of
-his arduous duties. His people being mixed
-English and French, I have known him go through
-the ritual of two masses, preach two sermons
-one in French and one in English (fasting)
-though frequently warned against such over-exertion.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>He was stricken with paralysis some years
-ago, and though comparatively a young man,
-is quite debarred now from all church services.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>He exercised considerable influence amongst
-his parishioners, many of them being very
-difficult to deal with—a floating population
-of sailors; but his genial manner and tact
-carried him through many difficulties. I
-cannot give a better illustration of that same tact
-than by narrating a fact that occurred full
-thirty years ago. At the time of the great
-</span><em class="italics">Corrigan Murder</em><span> (as it was called)—the
-outcome of a fight between Orangemen and
-R. C. Irishmen—the feud ran so high, the
-Bishop of Quebec, seeing how impossible it
-would be for an Irish priest to abstain from
-being drawn into the vortex of party strife,
-decided on sending a French-Canadian
-priest, who would have no national feeling in
-the matter. The matter was discussed, but
-it was supposed to be such a post of danger,
-even for a priest, the Bishop decided he would
-ask for a volunteer instead of issuing a
-command to one of his clergy. All eyes turned
-to the Rev. Mr. Drolet as </span><em class="italics">the one</em><span> suited; he
-had been junior priest in St. Patrick's Church
-in Quebec, was thoroughly acquainted with
-the character of the Irish people, and much
-beloved by them. He offered his services,
-which were at once accepted; but some of
-his confrères felt badly over the matter and
-remonstrated: "You must remember, my
-dear sir, that you have a mother and sisters
-dependent on you for a home, and you hold
-your life in your hand, if you go to ——
-in the present state of feeling, as the Irish
-say they will not have a French-Canadian
-priest." "I am not afraid," was the Rev. Mr. D.'s
-rejoinder; he went, to find the Presbytery
-closed, the Parish Church nailed up, and a
-very threatening crowd assembled. He could
-do nothing that day, so went to a neighboring
-parish to say his morning mass. The next day
-the same scene. Undaunted he began to talk,
-said he always thought an Irishman liked fair
-play, and thought he might ask for a few
-minutes hearing—he, one man against hundreds.
-"Oh! yes," they said, ashamed. "We'll
-let you talk, but remember we don't want to
-insult your reverence, but we won't have a
-French-Canadian over us." "Well, answer me
-one question, I like to know to whom I am
-talking: what is your name, and in what part
-of Ireland were you born?" "Oh, sir, I was
-not born in Ireland, but my grandfather and
-grandmother came from the Old country." "And
-you? and you?" The same answer, not
-one perhaps in forty were born in Ireland, all
-really by birth Canadians, and Mr. D. said,
-"You say you won't have me because I am a
-French-Canadian, my name is so, but, as my
-grandmother was Irish, I consider myself as
-Irish as any of you." His wit carried the day.
-He resided there for many years, and was so well
-liked that between thirty and forty of his
-parishioners accompanied him to do him
-honor, when he was given the pastorate of
-St. Michel, and I shall never forget the sight
-of a crowded steamboat, half of the people in
-tears as they went to see him off, and land him
-at Sillery, to which he had been promoted—the
-most desirable rectorship, I fancy, in the
-R. C. gift, near Quebec; but which he was
-to enjoy only a few years.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="st-matthew-s-chapel"><span class="bold large">ST. MATTHEW'S CHAPEL.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>A beautiful little church on the site of the
-old burying ground, on St. John street, Quebec,
-built by that well-known philanthropist,
-Matthew Hale, Esq., and very much enlarged and
-beautified by the various members of the
-Hamilton family with their well-known liberality.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="bishop-hamilton"><span class="bold large">BISHOP HAMILTON.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>About thirty years ago, there arrived fresh
-from college a newly-ordained clergyman of
-the Church of England. So youthful looking,
-so mild in character, it appeared at first as if
-he would hardly yet be fitted for the onerous
-position of pastor, but he was appointed.
-Family influence and money soon caused
-St. Matthew's to be most largely patronized,
-also free seats. In the meantime our young
-clergyman pursued his unobtrusive way. Daily
-he might be seen in the poorest and least
-frequented streets of the city, driving a little
-waggonette, evidently constructed to order from
-its capacity for holding comforts for his poor
-people. A thoroughly earnest, fervently pious
-man, our young clergyman, before many years,
-displayed his innate force of character, acquired
-great influence, and we know him now as
-Charles Hamilton, Bishop of Ontario.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="st-patrick-s-cemetery"><span class="bold large">ST. PATRICK'S CEMETERY, QUEBEC.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span>Formerly Woodfield, the residence of the late
-<br />James Gibb, Esq., previously the residence of
-<br />Chas. Sheppard, Esq.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>As I tread the sod of this cemetery what a
-host of memories are evoked. Here was the
-handsome residence of Chas. Sheppard,
-formerly large timber merchant of Quebec, one of
-whose sons, Mansfield Sheppard, Esq., and his
-daughter, Mrs. Watt, I think still survive! This
-pleasant home was burnt down, the family having
-hardly time to escape, and many cherished and
-valuable mementoes of the past perished with
-it. It was purchased by James Gibb, Esq., as
-a homestead, and so occupied for many years;
-and who in the flush of enjoyment at the many
-pleasant entertainments given by the Gibb
-family would have foreseen the day when many
-of those dancing and promenading through
-those beautiful grounds would be treading over
-perhaps the very spot may be their own resting
-place in the quiet grave. Such is life. This
-cemetery, now of great beauty from its natural
-characteristics, is about two miles from Quebec.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="mount-hermon-cemetery"><span class="bold large">MOUNT HERMON CEMETERY,</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="pfirst"><span>About three miles from the city of Quebec, is
-most beautifully situated on the St. Louis road
-its grounds at the back overlooking the St. Lawrence.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>Amongst other noted monuments here is the
-slab that indicates the last resting place of the
-young son of Sir Edmund Head, who was accidentally
-drowned in the St. Lawrence river, and
-buried here in Mr. Price's lot. The Price family
-had long occupied a high position in Quebec
-society, and been intimate with the families of
-several of the governors. I see they had the
-honor of a visit from the Prince on his late trip
-to Quebec, who lunched with them.</span></p>
-<p class="pnext"><span>I will attempt no further description of old
-Quebec, Mr. Le Moine has too thoroughly exhausted
-the subject, but confine myself to a description
-of people and incidents illustrative of the
-to me good old times. Perhaps the beauty of the
-prospective is enhanced by the distance, but to
-those who have passed the meridian of life the
-past must ever be dearer than the present, for it
-alone is peopled with so many of the loved we
-look for in vain now. So many of my once
-dear associates have gone on before me, I
-often ponder on what must be the feelings of
-one living to a hundred years, who stands
-totally alone without one he has known in his
-earlier days to greet him.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="in-memoriam"><span class="bold large">IN MEMORIAM.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span>To my darling husband on the anniversary of
-<br />his death—September the 14th, 1889.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<!-- -->
-<blockquote>
-<div>
-<div class="line-block outermost">
-<div class="line"><span>A year has come and gone since, by God's Holy will</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>You left me, husband darling, and I still</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Sorrow as in the earlier days, and grieve</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>As only those do who also are bereaved</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Of one so fondly loved, whose life for years so</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>closely 'twined together</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>It seemed that death itself could never sever</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>The bonds, so firmly bound, in sickness or in health</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Times of disaster, poverty or wealth,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>The love which warmer grew with length of year.</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>It seems not possible you're gone, I here;</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Be still my heart, 'tis only for a time.</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>God's will be done, and humbly mine</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Must bow to His who doeth all things well.</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Perchance you hear me, darling; who can tell</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>What line divides us? Thought may meet thought</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>On the high shore you stand,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>And waft a loving greeting to the spirit land.</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>So I'll not grieve you with my helpless sorrow.</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>But happily look toward that glad to-morrow</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Will surely reunite us on that Heavenly shore.</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>The time will come, we'll meet and part no more.</span></div>
-</div>
-</div>
-</blockquote>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="november"><span class="bold large">NOVEMBER.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<!-- -->
-<blockquote>
-<div>
-<div class="line-block outermost">
-<div class="line"><span>When you speak of drear November,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Of its days of rain and gloom,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>You should also ere remember</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>It's the advent very soon</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Of the bright month of December,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>With its Christmas joys and cheer.</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>That its family rejoicings,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>And its greetings of New Year,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Eclipse all previous darkness,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>As the dark before the dawn;</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Ignoring all the dangers,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>That yet before us yawn.</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>For happily so the future</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Is hidden from our gaze,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>We only blindly, step by step,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Tread the ever-tangled maze</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>That encircles all our future,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>And no one can design</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>The pathway to be trodden</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>By either yours or mine.</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>So implicitly we'll leave</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Our Heavenly Guide to say</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>The road that we will travel</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>And journey day by day,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Assured He will truly guide us,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>If we will only follow,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>And land us safely on the shore,</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>When some assured to-morrow</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>Will join the past, and safe return</span></div>
-<div class="line"><span>All those for whom we sorrow.</span></div>
-</div>
-</div>
-</blockquote>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="to-the-oyster"><span class="bold large">TO THE OYSTER.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<!-- -->
-<blockquote>
-<div>
-<div class="line-block outermost">
-<div class="line"><span>How I love you! toothsome oyster.</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>Because at hunger's call</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>You are at all times ready</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>To fill our empty maw.</span></div>
-</div>
-</div>
-<div class="line-block outermost">
-<div class="line"><span>But still more do I love you</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>For the odor that you waft</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>Of seaside and sea-air you bring</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>With memories of the past.</span></div>
-</div>
-</div>
-<div class="line-block outermost">
-<div class="line"><span>The past whene'er your advent,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>In autumn's wintry weather,</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>Was grandly hailed on every side,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>And brought all friends together.</span></div>
-</div>
-</div>
-<div class="line-block outermost">
-<div class="line"><span>When seated at a well-spread board,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>Full quite a score and more</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>Of neighbors met to eat the food</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>All must pronounce so very good.</span></div>
-</div>
-</div>
-<div class="line-block outermost">
-<div class="line"><span>So whether hot, or whether cold,</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>In stew, or soup, or pie,</span></div>
-</div>
-<div class="line"><span>We sing your praise, for very few</span></div>
-<div class="inner line-block">
-<div class="line"><span>Your excellence can deny.</span></div>
-</div>
-</div>
-</div>
-</blockquote>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 4em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst" id="list-of-new-subscribers"><span class="bold large">LIST OF NEW SUBSCRIBERS.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span>QUEBEC.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<p class="noindent pfirst"><span>Lady Stuart.
-<br />Comte de Turenne.
-<br />H. H. Sewell.
-<br />Mrs. W. Rae.
-<br />A. F. Hunt.
-<br />James Fatton.
-<br />J. Hamilton.
-<br />J. V. Welch.
-<br />H. G. Beemer.
-<br />E. J. Price.
-<br />Hon. Mr. Price.
-<br />P. P. Hall.
-<br />W. A. Russell, 2 copies.
-<br />C. S. Parke, M.D.
-<br />H. M. Michaels, Bk. B. N. A.
-<br />Arch. Campbell.
-<br />J. H. Burroughs.
-<br />Louis G. Fiset.
-<br />Hon. Judge F. Andrews.
-<br />E. N. Chinic.
-<br />George Vanfelsen.
-<br />Henry Russell, M.D.
-<br />Robert Mitchell.
-<br />E. A. Panet, N. P., St. Raymond.
-<br />Mrs. Astell Drayner.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span>MONTREAL.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<p class="noindent pfirst"><span>Sir William Dawson.
-<br />P. B. Casgrain.
-<br />Somerville Weir.
-<br />W. Grant Stuart, M.D.
-<br />A. Primeau.
-<br />Mrs. R. M. Harrison.
-<br />Mrs. Trotter.
-<br />John Fair.
-<br />E. Pipon, Bk. of Montreal
-<br />W. Weir.
-<br />Alfred Thibaudeau.
-<br />J. Cradock Simpson.
-<br />Strachan Bethune.
-<br />Benj. Hart.
-<br />L. W. Marchand.
-<br />P. H. M. Sommerville, Bk. B. N. A.
-<br />W. Godfrey, Bk. B. N. A.
-<br />Madame DesRivières, Malmaison.
-<br />D. McCord.
-<br />A. Sicotte.
-<br />David Denne.
-<br />W. G. LeMesurier.
-<br />H. A. Hutchins.
-<br />E. B. Greenshields.
-<br />Judge Baby.
-<br />B. D. McConnell.
-<br />Norman S. Leslie.
-<br />Chs. Alexander.
-<br />Louis Barbeau,
-<br />Hon. G. H. Drummond.
-<br />Samuel I. Grant.
-<br />Judge Dorion.
-<br />Judge Bosse.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 2em">
-</div>
-<p class="center pfirst"><span>OTTAWA.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 1em">
-</div>
-<p class="noindent pfirst"><span>John D. Arnoldi.
-<br />Parliamentary Library, 2 copies.
-<br />Norman Bethune.
-<br />N. H. Noel, Quebec Bank.
-<br />S. Wilmot, Senate.
-<br />S. Lelièvre.
-<br />Judge Fournier.
-<br />Sir A. Caron.
-<br />Lt. Col. Macpherson.
-<br />Col. Tanet.
-<br />E. Knight, Militia Dept.
-<br />C.H. O'Meara.
-<br />M. Harrison.
-<br />W. Himsworth, Inland Revenue.
-<br />Geo. Duval, High Court of Justice.
-<br />S. Boucher.
-<br />Robt. Cassels.
-<br />W. P. Anderson, Union Bk.
-<br />Jas. Adamson, Senate.</span></p>
-<div class="vspace" style="height: 6em">
-</div>
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- OLD MEMORIES: AMUSING AND HISTORICAL
-
-
-
-
-This ebook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
-most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
-of the Project Gutenberg License included with this ebook or online at
-https://www.gutenberg.org/license. If you are not located in the United
-States, you'll have to check the laws of the country where you are
-located before using this ebook.
-
-
-
-Title: Old Memories: Amusing and Historical
-Author: Mrs. Daniel Macpherson
-Release Date: October 29, 2016 [EBook #53403]
-Language: English
-Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
-
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OLD MEMORIES: AMUSING AND
-HISTORICAL ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by Al Haines.
-
-
-
-
-
- *OLD MEMORIES:*
-
- *AMUSING AND HISTORICAL*
-
- _A SEQUEL TO_
-
- *"REMINISCENCES OF OLD QUEBEC."*
-
-
- BY
-
- MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON,
-
- AN OLD QUEBECER.
-
-
-
- MONTREAL:
- PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR.
-
-
-
-
- Entered according to Act of Parliament of Canada, in the
- year one thousand eight hundred and ninety, by
- MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON, in the office of the Minister of
- Agriculture and Statistics at Ottawa.
-
-
-
-
- DEDICATION.
-
- TO
-
- JAMES MACPHERSON LEMOINE, ESQ.,
-
- AUTHOR OF
-
- QUEBEC PAST AND PRESENT, MAPLE LEAVES, ETC.,
-
- MY DEAR HUSBAND'S COUSIN AND TRIED FRIEND,
-
- I DEDICATE THIS VOLUME AS A SLIGHT MARK OF ESTEEM.
-
- CHARLOTTE HOLT GETHINGS MACPHERSON.
-
-
-
-
- *CONTENTS.*
-
-
-To my Subscribers and the Public
-Sequel to Old Congregational Convent
-St. Louis Hotel
-The Quebec Bank
-Horse Boats and Ice Boats
-Beaumont, St. Thomas
-St. Michel
-A Chronicle of St. Michel
-Second Visit to Roberval, Lake St. John
-St. Leon Springs
-My Second Visit to St. Leon Springs
-St. Raymond
-St. Augustin
-St. Andr
-Les Eboulements
-Society in Quebec Fifty Years Ago
-Spencer Grange
-Society in 1854
-New Year's Day, 1840
-A Point of Honor
-Country Post Offices Forty and Fifty Years Ago
-The Subterranean Passages of the Citadel of Quebec
-The First St. Patrick's Society in Quebec
-Sillery Church
-St. Matthew's Chapel
-Bishop Hamilton
-St. Patrick's Cemetery
-Mount Hermon Cemetery
-In Memoriam
-November
-To the Oyster
-
-
-
-
- *TO MY SUBSCRIBERS AND THE PUBLIC.*
-
-
-MY FRIENDS,
-
-You have been so good to me, in purchasing, within a few weeks, five
-hundred copies of a feuilleton, only intended for private circulation, I
-should like to show my appreciation, by catering to your desire for
-information regarding our dear old city, Quebec; but what can I do? My
-learned friend, James Macpherson LeMoine, Esq., with his wonderful
-knowledge of facts, so exhausted the subject in his excellent and
-beautifully got up book, "Picturesque Quebec," I am utterly overwhelmed.
-Until I began to study the matter I was quite ignorant that he had
-written so fully on these matters, so I can only play Boswell to his
-Johnson, and as without Boswell many of the sayings of the immortal
-Johnson would have been lost, I too may have my use in recording crumbs
-of information, interesting and instructive, though lacking the dignity
-of history.
-
-Yours truly,
-CHARLOTTE HOLT GETHINGS MACPHERSON
-
-
-
-
- *OLD MEMORIES:*
-
- *AMUSING AND HISTORICAL.*
-
-
- SEQUEL TO "REMINISCENCES OF OLD QUEBEC,"
- BY MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON.
-
-
-My first recollection is that of being drawn in a child's carriage by
-old Germain, messenger of the Quebec Bank (where I was born), to the old
-convent, formerly occupying the site of McCall, Shehyn & Co.'s store at
-the foot of Mountain Hill in St. Peter Street, Quebec. This convent has
-been non-existant for forty-seven years. Its community now reside in
-St. Joseph Street, St. Roch's. When this convent was there, there was
-no St. Peter Street, there were no wharves, and an old sister told me
-the batteau men often struck their sails against their convent. I
-remember my father often called at the convent to take me out boating on
-the St. Lawrence River that lapped its shores, for the lower town of
-Quebec was then a delightful residence for Quebec people, only the
-military then residing in the Upper Town. Applying for information
-about this old convent to Ville Marie, the Mother House of this order, I
-received the following letter from one of the ladies:
-
-
- CONGREGATION DE NOTRE DAME,
-
-
-Montreal, October 10, 1890.
-
-Madam,
-
-As I am obliged to absent myself, I have only time to give the year of
-the present foundation at Quebec. The first house was in the Upper
-Town, established in 1688 under the direction of the venerable Mother
-Bourgeois. This house was transferred to the Lower Town in 1692, under
-Mons. de St. Vallire, and in 1844 the convent of the Lower Town not
-being any more convenient, the sisters went and fixed themselves in St.
-Roch's under Monseigneur Signai and the Rev. Cur Mr. Charest. Rev. Mre
-St. Madeleine was Superioress of the Congregation of Notre Dame.
-
-I am sorry not to be able to give you further details.
-
-Your humble servant,
- Sr. St. Alexis de St. Joseph.
-
-
-
-
- *SEQUEL TO OLD CONGREGATIONAL CONVENT.*
-
-
- FRIDAY, October 10, 1890.
-
-I have just returned from a very pleasant visit (my first) to Villa
-Maria, the Maison Mre of the old Convent of the Congregation,
-forty-seven years ago at the foot of Mountain Hill, Quebec.
-
-Taking the St. Catherine street cars as far as the Post-Office, at the
-toll-gate you enter an omnibus (at certain hours) which takes you, for
-the moderate sum of five cents, to the gate leading into the grounds of
-Villa Maria, the first educational establishment of the Congregation de
-Ntre Dame, formerly Moncklands.
-
-The approach on the Cte St. Antoine Road is beautiful, especially at
-this season, when the trees surrounding the various pretty homes to some
-of our Montreal gentry are just taking on their autumn tints. At one
-residence especially I noticed the leaves of every color, from varied
-green and red, pale pink, and deep crimson. One small house especially
-attracted my attention, that of Maxime St. Germain--a real old-fashioned
-humble country stone cottage, with the cross standing, a rendezvous in
-old time for prayer when churches were few and far between.
-
-It was told me that this Maxime St. Germain, from a humble habitant, by
-the rise of the value of his property, has risen to great wealth, though
-still living in his humble way, and with his wife and brother still
-occupy the old homestead.
-
-To make one understand the beauty of Moncklands, you must pay it a
-personal visit, and, in default of that, I cannot do better than copy a
-page of its prospectus. I can only say that I was utterly charmed even
-during my hurried visit.
-
-The view is so lovely from the front. The parlors so tastefully, even
-elegantly, furnished, with a fine library in one of them, every token of
-refinement, and the spirit of order prevails with a carefulness of
-detail which must conduce to the comfort of its inmates.
-
-"In this Institution for Young Ladies will be found all the advantages,
-comfort, etc., in harmony with its pre-eminence among the various houses
-of this Order.
-
-In point of situation, salubrity, and picturesque scenery, Villa Maria
-is unrivalled; the grounds are extensive, and comprise a delightful
-grove and a lovely little lake, with gondolas, for the healthful
-amusement of the pupils.
-
-The house, which was formerly the residence of the Governor-General of
-Canada, is fitted up in a style of comfort and in a degree of elegance
-not surpassed by any establishment of the kind. French being the
-language of the Institution, the pupils possess rare facilities for
-acquiring a thorough and practical knowledge of this language. French
-conversation is compulsory, and enters into the competition for the
-highest honors. The course in the English language is thorough and
-complete.
-
-The Governor-General of the Dominion of Canada has graciously given this
-institution a magnificent medal, to be awarded for general proficiency.
-
-Hon. Ed. Murphy, Montreal, a valuable microscope, to the young lady who
-excels in natural history.
-
-Mrs. Ed. Murphy, a magnificent gold medal, for excellence in the art of
-house-keeping.
-
-The Countess de Beaujeu, a rich gold medal, to the young lady who excels
-in French conversation.
-
-The Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of Quebec, a medal for universal
-history.
-
-The Rev. L. Collin, Sup. S. S. S., a gold medal for literature.
-
-The Rev. J. Marechal, a gold medal for religious instruction.
-
-The Hon. P. J. O. Chauveau, ex-minister of Education, a gold medal for
-composition.
-
-The Rev. Mother Sup. General, a gold medal for excellence in deportment.
-
-J. J. McElhone, Esq., of Washington, a gold medal for phonography and
-type-writing.
-
-J. M. McGirr, Esq., Ont., a gold medal for mathematics.
-
-Awarded by an artist, a gold lyre, for proficiency in music.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. LOUIS HOTEL.*
-
-
-I have just returned from Quebec, and must record one of the most
-pleasurable incidents of that visit, namely, my meeting accidentally an
-old acquaintance, the handsome Miss Bouchette, now Lady Shea, and her
-gifted husband, Sir Ambrose Shea. The pleasure of a prolonged interview
-with the latter, and I must say an hour's conversation with him, is an
-education. He has the happy gift of conveying so much information in
-such easy flowing language, words seem to come specially to express his
-meaning; you learn so much while apparently only chatting. Truly may
-the Bahamas bless the day when he went there, and evolved from the
-noxious weed they complained of (Sisal Fibre) an industry which will be
-its grand prosperity. Already the importance of this great branch of
-commerce has been so great that he has, in view of Canadian interests,
-come on a visit to Ottawa, to effect, if possible, a divergence of the
-trade to Canada instead of permitting our American Cousins to reap all
-the profits. He showed me a plait of fibre about two feet long or more,
-so delicate yet so strong. There is no doubt it will produce a rival to
-the famous manilla rope, and so facile of handling, it may yet be used
-for the manufacture of linen and other articles, for it needs very
-little preparation for use, and that of the simplest kind.
-
-This wonderful plant suddenly sprung into prominent notice. It is a
-weed particularly fertile in the Bahamas. It grows about two feet high,
-and the fibre is the length of the plant, and when extracted by the
-simple process of pressing out, and then wet and dried in the sun, looks
-exactly like horse hair, and so strong one could not break even four
-threads twined together. This Sisal Fibre is creating such a sensation
-now. I need say nothing further on the subject, only wish Sir Ambrose
-and his wife a pleasant trip, and thank Mr. Russell for the particular
-courtesy I received from him. But when will you fail to receive
-attention at the St. Louis! From mine host down to the humblest bell
-boy, all are so watchful for your comfort, so civil in their demeanor,
-it is a pleasure to put up there.
-
-
-
-
- *THE QUEBEC BANK, QUEBEC.*
-
-
-On a recent visit to Quebec I was shown by the present courteous and
-able manager, James Stevenson, Esq., a notice he had written in the
-_Shareholder_, February 22, 1884, and there is so much of interest in it
-for the public, I transmit the valuable information it contains to you,
-my friends. Mr. Stevenson had directed my attention to this article, as
-he had therein so kindly noticed my dear father, the late Charles
-Gethings:--
-
-The Quebec Bank, with the exception of the Bank of Montreal, is the
-oldest bank in the Dominion. On the 9th July, 1818, merchants, and
-others interested in the establishment of a bank in the city of Quebec,
-held a meeting at the Exchange, and drafted articles of association. The
-document is headed, "Articles of Association of the Quebec Bank," and
-consists of twenty-five sections. No. 3 provides that, for the good
-management of the bank, there shall be thirteen directors; No. 6, that
-there shall be no recourse upon the separate property of any
-shareholder. Other sections severally provide for the issue of notes;
-the calling-up of the capital, which is to be 75,000; the term of the
-bank's existence; and its dissolution. The bank is now in its
-sixty-seventh year. Distinguished men, legislators, lawyers and
-merchants have served on the directorate. During the term of its
-existence it has been exposed to severe financial storms; it has
-weathered them all, preserved its capital intact, and has paid several
-millions in the shape of dividends.
-
-At the first meeting of the shareholders, which was held on the 7th
-September, 1818, the following gentlemen were elected to serve on the
-board of directors, namely, John W. Woolsey, Thomas White, J. McCallum,
-John Jones, Charles Smith, Louis Massue, Jean Langevin, Henry Black, Ph.
-Aubert de Gasp, W. G. Sheppard, John Goudie, Etienne Lagreux, and
-Benjamin Tremain. Mr. Woolsey was elected president, and Mr. White,
-vice-president; and the Board engaged the services of Noah Freer, as
-cashier. Mr. Freer held a commission as captain in the army; he had
-seen service, and had been military secretary to Sir George Prevost,
-during the war of 1812. Steady-going merchants may have shrugged their
-shoulders and questioned the wisdom and propriety of appointing a
-soldier to such a position; but Captain Freer took kindly to the
-business of civil life. He was accurate, precise, and methodical in all
-he did; and a courteous gentleman in his intercourse with the public.
-The customers of the bank were men of high standing--including the
-leading officials of the capital, namely, the Governor-General, the
-Bishop, the Commander-in-Chief, legislators and lawyers, in addition to
-the regular commercial clientele. Holograph cheques of all its
-principal customers since 1818 have been carefully preserved in the
-bank, a review of which is almost as interesting as a cursory perusal of
-the annals of the city.
-
-That able jurist, the late Honorable Andrew Stuart, was appointed legal
-adviser; and he appears on several occasions to have steadied the
-directors, and guided them into a course of safety.
-
-In the absence of an "Act of Incorporation," the shareholders no doubt
-incurred unlimited liability to the depositors and share-holders; but
-application was made to Parliament for a charter, and an "Act of
-Incorporation," extending the existence of the bank to 1831, was passed
-in 1819. This Act received the Royal assent of George IV. on the 16th
-September, 1822. At the expiration of the term, the charter was
-renewed, and extended to the 1st August, 1836; and, by a subsequent Act,
-to the same date in 1837. That year constitutional government was
-suspended in consequence of the disturbed state of the Province; and all
-the powers and privileges of the bank expired by the effluxion of the
-time limited by the Act of Incorporation. The directors were at a loss
-what course to pursue under the circumstances. They thought seriously
-of winding up the bank. In 1838 the government of the country was
-vested in Sir John Colborne, as Administrator, and a special council
-held in the city of Montreal. The same year, the Habeas Corpus Act was
-suspended, and an ordinance was passed authorizing the incorporated,
-chartered, and other banks in the Province to suspend the redemption of
-their notes in specie till the 1st of June, 1839--limiting the
-circulation of each bank to the amount of its capital stock actually
-paid up. It was further enacted that all specie then held by the bank
-should be retained, and should not be sold, excepting to Her Majesty's
-Government.
-
-Political disturbances having been quelled, trade revived, and all
-thought of winding up the bank was abandoned. To supply the absence of
-silver, the bank, in addition to its ordinary issue, issued notes of
-15d., or 30 sous, and 2s. 6d., or 3 francs; and the several banks struck
-off a copper currency for the convenience of the public. The suspension
-of specie payments lasted three years.
-
-In the absence of Parliamentary authority for the existence of the bank,
-the directors we readvised to apply for a royal charter, and Captain
-Freer, the cashier, was deputed to proceed to England, for the purpose
-of communicating with the Home Government on the subject. Captain Freer
-was well received by the authorities, and every assistance was rendered
-to him in furtherance of the object of his mission. A royal charter was
-granted with authority to apply to Parliament for a renewal as soon as
-constitutional government should be restored; at the same time the
-authorized capital of the bank was increased to 100,000.
-
-Several changes had taken place in the personnel at the Direction since
-1818. In 1823, Mr. W. Sheppard was elected president; in 1832, Mr.
-Charles Smith; in 1838, Mr. John Fraser; and in 1842, Mr. James Gibb.
-In 1852 Captain Freer retired from the service of the bank upon a
-pension, having held office for thirty-four years. In 1848 Sir N. F.
-Belleau was elected a director. He has since been a constant member of
-the Board, and punctual in his attendance, even while he held the office
-of Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of Quebec. On the death of the
-Honorable Andrew Stuart, the Honorable Henry Black was appointed legal
-adviser; and on his assuming the duties of Judge of the Vice-Admiralty
-Court, he was succeeded by the Honorable George O. Stuart, the present
-Judge of the same Court. J. C. Vannovous, Q.C., held the office till
-his death, and was succeeded by the present legal advisers of the bank,
-Messrs. Andrews, Caron & Andrews.
-
-Mr. Charles Gethings, a man of inflexible integrity of character, was
-appointed to fill the office of cashier, vacated by the retirement of
-Captain Freer, and under his management, and the careful supervision of
-the president, Mr. Gibb, who was rarely absent from the office, the bank
-continued to pay its dividends, namely, in 1853 at the rate of 7 per
-cent. per annum: in 1854, 7 per cent.; 1855, 7 per cent.; 1856, 7 per
-cent.; 1857, 6 per cent.; 1858, 6 per cent.; 1859, 6 per cent.; 1860,
-7.
-
-In 1860 the president, one of the oldest and most esteemed merchants in
-the city, died, deeply regretted by the whole community, and Mr. W. H.
-Anderson, the vice-president, was elected president in his place. The
-following year Mr. Gethings, the cashier, retired upon a pension; and
-Mr. William Dunn, a gentleman well qualified to fill an important place
-in any bank, was appointed his successor. The bank, under his
-management, continued to pay dividends, namely, in 1861, 8 per cent;
-1862, 8 per cent.; 1863, 7 per cent.; 1864, 7 per cent.
-
-In 1864 Mr. David Douglas Young, a leading and highly esteemed merchant,
-who had served several years on the directorate, was elected president.
-Mr. Dunn, the cashier, retired soon after his appointment, and was
-succeeded by the present general manager, Mr. James Stevenson, in
-December, 1864.
-
-Since the death of Mr. Young, which happened in 1869, the Honorable
-James G. Ross has been president of the bank, and Mr. William Withall,
-vice-president.
-
-Such, in brief, is the history of this old institution, the doors of
-which were opened for business in 1818, in a small house in
-Sault-au-Matelot Street. Some years afterwards, a portion of a
-commodious building erected by the Quebec Fire Insurance Company, in
-Peter Street, was occupied by the bank. But in 1863 the directors
-resolved to have a building of their own, and they purchased from Mr. H.
-Atkinson the site upon which the present handsome banking house is
-built. A certain historical interest attaches to almost every spot and
-locality in Quebec; and to none more so than to that very site. There,
-on a cold stormy December morning, in 1775, when the simultaneous
-assault on Quebec was made by Montgomery and Arnold, stood a small body
-of resolute men, ready to sacrifice their lives in defence of the city.
-While the life of Montgomery was ebbing away with the flow of his blood
-at Cape Diamond, Arnold was advancing, with a comparatively formidable
-force, from St. Roch's, upon Sault-au-Matelot, a little lane not over
-twelve feet wide, opposite the site of the bank. It is not too much to
-say that the fate of Canada, as a dependency of Great Britain, hung upon
-the issue of the impending contest in the lane. The struggle was a
-desperate one.
-
-It lasted several hours; but the repulse was complete; and Arnold,
-carried off wounded, retired with the remnant of his force upon the
-General Hospital, the head-quarters of the Americans, which they held
-till the siege of Quebec was abandoned in the following month of May,
-1776.
-
-
-
-
- *HORSE BOATS AND ICE BOATS.*
-
-
-Near the site of the old convent just described, we used to embark on a
-horse boat to cross to Levis in summer, and in winter a canoe, managed
-by expert boatmen, who paddled their way through shoal ice, and, on
-reaching any large piece, with wonderful strength and skill raised the
-canoe and pulled it on the ice as we do a sleigh. These boatmen were so
-inured to their work that an accident rarely happened. But there are
-records of a whole canoe full of people being swamped. Fortunately a
-regular service of ice boats exists in winter now, and with rare
-intervals (some extraordinary storm) with as much regularity as the
-summer ferry boats.
-
-Some of my young readers may never have seen a horse boat, so I will
-tell them they looked like some of the very small steamboats, but the
-machinery was put in movement and carried on by horses attached to a
-pole in the centre and walking round and round.
-
-Previous to the year 1857 there were no other means of crossing to Levis
-but by the canoes, when Capt. Semple chartered a boat, which ran up to
-December, as it could only go through floating ice. But an enterprising
-gentleman, the recently deceased Mr. Tibbits, talking over the matter
-with a young relative of mechanical genius, made out plans for
-machinery, had them sent to Montreal, made here and sent on to Quebec,
-were fitted up and at once proved successful, and thus in the year 1862
-started his passenger boat, "The Arctic," which would cut through the
-heaviest ice and became a perfect success. I copy from a newspaper the
-following notice of Mr. Tibbits, who died March 26, 1889:
-
-"On Friday last the mortal remains of the late James Tibbits were
-committed to their last resting place in Mount Hermon Cemetery. For many
-years the deceased was a prominent figure in the mercantile community.
-He was a man of great physical and mental energy, and of unbounded
-enterprise, always willing to risk in public enterprises the money with
-which many of his ventures were crowned. One lasting monument of his
-enterprise and ability remains to us in the excellent ferry service we
-enjoy with the South Shore. He was the first to demonstrate the
-possibility of a steamer cutting its way through the masses of ice which
-obstructed the navigation opposite the city during the winter. Like
-many others of our enterprising merchants, Mr. Tibbits died poor. Quebec
-owes his memory a debt of gratitude, which might well have been slightly
-repaid by a public funeral. It is, however, such a long time since Mr.
-Tibbits resided in the city, the generation that succeeded are hardly
-aware of the services rendered by the deceased. It is not fitting,
-however, that they should be lost sight of."
-
-The ferry boats, summer and winter, land you in close proximity to the
-railroad, and carriages take you west towards St. David or east to St.
-Joseph. After driving up a very steep hill you come to a road branching
-off to the west beside which is the little old English Church and
-Cemetery, the former being now renewed under the supervision of its
-popular pastor, Rev. Mr. Nicholls, grandson of the much-esteemed Bishop
-Mountain. Higher up and last is the Roman Catholic parish church, a
-monument to the zeal and perseverance of the late Rev. Mr. Dalzeil.
-Almost a riot was in the parish when he asked for it to be built of its
-present size, but with far-seeing wisdom he insisted, and now it is
-crowded to overflowing though two other churches have been built in the
-space of the last few years. Levis also possesses a fine college in this
-locality. On the summit of the hill called rue des Marchands is a very
-handsome and spacious store and residence belonging to Mr. Couture, and
-opposite to it is a tiny little building kept in good repair, though
-unused, which Mr. Couture tells you with pride is the shop where he
-first earned the shillings which were to end by making him a
-millionaire. Mr. Edouard Couture carries on the business in the same
-place now, but the Hon. Geo. Couture, Senator, sleeps under a handsome
-obelisk in Levis Cemetery. The noblest monument that exists to his
-memory, however, is the beautiful church, built by money left for that
-purpose in his will, adjoining the splendid hospital, built within about
-ten years, to which he contributed so largely during his lifetime. One
-of the head ladies of the institution (a very old friend, sister-in-law
-of our well-known citizen, Hon. P. Casgrain) took me through this
-building about a week ago, and I was astonished to find it almost filled
-already. The poor, the crippled, old women, young children, have here a
-comfortable home, with delightful surroundings, and on a height and with
-a view of the Citadel, Quebec.
-
-When Mre St. Monique asked me to go and visit the Catacombs under the
-church, I decidedly objected, but Josephte, as I called her in our
-youth, always would have her way, and I am glad she did so here, for I
-do not know whether similar places for burial are existent elsewhere in
-this country or only a new creation in Canada, but I am glad I went into
-them. This seems to be the perfection of burying. Leading me through a
-long light passage under the church, we came to a very heavy iron door;
-then on its being opened a second appeared with its blank emblems and
-death's head and cross bones, sufficiently indicative of where we were
-going. Entering this door Mre St. Monique struck a light, and we found
-ourselves in a fire-proof brick chamber and passages. On every side
-shelves to hold one coffin. There is only one occupant so far--Mr.
-Gingras--but there are places for ninety. The coffin is placed on a
-shelf just large enough, then masoned up, and the name put on the
-masonry. A great improvement on old-fashioned vaults, as all
-possibility of disturbance is precluded and no danger from foul air.
-This building is under the High Altar, so to a devout Roman Catholic
-much of the feeling of gloom is taken away. A few miles west is St.
-David's Church, a pretty new edifice, and further on at the village of
-St. Romuald, St. Romuald's Church, so filled with choice paintings and
-works of art by its late Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Saxe, it has become quite
-a worthy show place for our sight-seeing American friends. The Rev. Mr.
-Saxe was of such clever wit and genial presence, he exercised great
-influence over those with whom he came in contact. I remember saying
-how proud his parishioners must be of this lovely little edifice. "They
-well may be," he said, "it has hardly cost them anything for all these
-works of art. I made the old country, that could afford it, give them,
-you know. I travelled in Europe for contributions, and impressed on
-each community how necessary it was that each city should give of its
-best--something to redound to its own credit, and I got it," the old
-gentleman said with a merry twinkle in his eye. So much, my friends,
-for tact and a knowledge of human nature.
-
-
-
-
- *BEAUMONT--ST. THOMAS.*
-
-
-Previous to the year 1853, or thereabouts, there was no railroad below
-Quebec, and vehicles were the only means of transport; but when time and
-means permit, it is surely the most agreeable of all ways of travelling.
-We were frequent visitors at Crane Island, and our downward drive to St.
-Thomas, where we took sail boat to cross, were in the habit of stopping
-at various way-side houses, not inns, simply neat commodious places
-where we were always expected and welcomed, and sure of a meal and bed.
-One of these was the Fraser House at Beaumont: it still exists, but
-sadly deteriorated, and occupied by a French farmer and family. It is a
-very long low house in a very small quiet country village, prettily
-situated with a view of the St. Lawrence.
-
-On one occasion my husband and myself drove up to the door. "Welcome!"
-(we were frequent visitors) "but it is well you did not come a few days
-sooner. Who do you think has just left? Lord and Lady Elgin,"--and I
-forget whether she said any children. "Come, and I'll show you the room
-as I arranged it for Lady Elgin." If you have never, my readers, seen a
-genuine old-fashioned habitant bedstead, I would almost fail to impress
-you with its height; you could not possibly get into it without standing
-on a chair, and two of these were placed side by side, taking in one
-whole side of a room, with the long white curtains pendant from a rod
-attached to the ceiling. I can hardly think of it now without smiling.
-Of course, it must have been for the novelty of the thing that Lady
-Elgin used it instead of having one brought from Quebec. Perhaps one
-gets so tired of formality and grandeur, a change becomes a welcome
-relief. We said we had but twenty minutes to stay, and must have lunch
-at once. In about ten minutes we had a most delicious fricassee of
-chicken in white sauce. On complimenting Mrs. Fraser, she said, "I
-learnt how to make that from Lord Elgin's cook, and was I not smart?
-those chickens were running about when you came." That spoilt all,
-ah--if she only had not told us? There are numerous pretty villages all
-along the south shore. None prettier than that of St. Michel, adjacent
-to Beaumont. It much resembles Kamouraska, though much prettier as the
-foliage is so lovely.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. MICHEL.*
-
-
-St. Michel is a delightful summer residence, about fifteen miles from
-Quebec, reached directly by steamer every day, or by railroad a few
-miles from the village.
-
-We resided there for a couple of years, and then made the acquaintance
-of the Rev. Mr. Drolet, who with his mother and sisters tendered us such
-kindly hospitality. The Parsonage became to all of us a Maison
-Paternelle, for the family all spoke English as well as French, and the
-genial cur, a very clever and devoted priest, was in his home an
-admirable host. I shall have occasion elsewhere to speak of him. I
-will conclude this article with a few verses I found lately, written on
-the spur of the moment from the circumstance of one of the ladies nearly
-falling through a trap door into the cellar of the dining-room of the
-old-fashioned house we then occupied.
-
-
-
-
- *A CHRONICLE OF ST. MICHEL.*
-
-
- A REMEMBRANCE OF HAPPY DAYS.
-
- It was a winter evening,
- The moon was shining bright,
- When from a lady's parlor
- Came sounds of laughter light.
- But, suddenly, the scene is changed,
- There's heard a warning shriek,
- And borne upon the air the words,
- "Oh! dear, will no one speak?"
- Unheeding trap, just at her feet,
- Comes with majestic mien
- A damsel of sweet presence,
- And smiling all serene.
- Her eyes are like the glowworm,
- Her cheeks like damask rose,
- She holds her head so loftily,
- She looks not at her toes;
- When, roused from contemplation sweet
- Of bottles ale and stout,
- A head above the trap appears--
- "What's all this row about?
- I see, I see, Miss Flora, dear,
- You'd all but tumbled down;
- One further step, and you'd have fall'n
- On my unlucky crown.
- Oh! had you tumbled on my head
- In yonder cellar well,
- We now, alas, been both quite dead"--
- A sad old tale to tell.
- How youth and beauty often fall
- Into some snare unseen,
- As so hath chanced in many a day
- And yet full oft I ween,
- While thoughtless youth with eager step
- Pursues its heedless way.
-
- MORAL.
-
- Then damsels all who hear my tale
- Hold not your heads so high,
- A downward glance give now and then,
- Hid dangers to descry.
-
-
-We arrive at St. Thomas after a forty miles drive, and stay over, if the
-tide does not serve for coming, at Madame F.'s well-known hotel--not far
-from which is the residences of the late Sir Etienne Tach and Mr.
-Bender, father of the present well-known Boston physician, Dr. Bender.
-
-A short distance from here is the house now occupied by E. P. Bender,
-formerly owned by Mr. William Patton, a splendid specimen of an English
-gentleman. A lumber merchant, doing a large business with ample means,
-his house was the home of generous hospitality. It is thirty years
-since I visited it or more--it then gave you an idea of one of England's
-far-famed country homes; Everything handsome, well ordered grounds, its
-steel grates (then a novelty), and handsome paperings, a host so
-courteous, his wife a refined lady of the old school--all appeared to
-promise long years of happiness to its inmates, when in a day, alas! all
-was changed. Mr. Patton was most energetic in his efforts to hasten the
-building of the railroad from Quebec to St. Thomas, and went into town
-to see Messrs. Morton, Peto & Brassey, when he met his fate.
-Overheated by his exertions, he lay down to rest opposite an open window
-facing the St. Lawrence, a gale sprung up, he got a chill, and in
-twenty-four hours he was dead, of inflammation, before his wife could
-reach him, and yet she arrived almost in time, due to a mysterious
-warning of some kind, I forget what it was--she told me of it herself.
-
-Sitting quietly in her room she heard or saw something, and, convinced
-that her husband needed her, she ordered a carriage, and, despite all
-remonstrance, drove all night, and passed in the darkness the carriage
-sent for her, and arrived in the grey dawn of morning to find her
-husband just dead.
-
-How many such unaccountable occurrences happen. I could tell of at
-least six such experiences in my own history. My theory is this, that
-under certain conditions thought meets thought, and so mesmerically
-impresses on the loved one its own yearnings and wishes.
-
-Previous to Mr. Patton's purchasing it, this house had been occupied by
-several families of note, the De Beaujeus, Olivas, etc. It was
-purchased a few years since by E. P. Bender, Esq., who now occupies it
-with his family.
-
-
-
-
- *SECOND VISIT TO ROBERVAL,
- LAKE ST. JOHN.*
-
-
-I was unfortunately prevented from visiting Roberval until late in the
-season--in fact, only a few weeks before the hotel closed--but I saw
-enough to confirm my first impressions as to its desirability as a
-summer resort for people who really need to recuperate after the wear
-and tear of town life. It was late in August, a cold spell was on; we
-arrived per railroad on Pullman car, which brings you to the very gate
-of the hotel premises. A dull heavy rain came down as we got off the
-cars, but what of that? you are ushered into a hallway where burns a
-generous grate fire. Courteous officials greet you and inquire your
-wants. Shown to a comfortable bedroom, and then to a supper as good in
-quality as meals served in most town hotels, with excellent attendance,
-you fancy you are in fairy land, as, gazing on the wild country around,
-you remember that this locality a few years ago was not even inhabited
-by farmers, but all was bush. Ushered into the ladies' parlor you are
-greeted by a most winning hostess, Mrs. Scott, daughter of the Honorable
-Mr. Shehyn, who, residing here at present with her children, does the
-honors, and welcomes you as if to her own private parlor. The season
-was so nearly over there were comparatively few guests, but those of the
-most pleasant--Dr. and Mrs. Lovely, Rev. Mr. ---- and his wife, and
-several members of the Beemer family, who by their musical talents
-contributed largely to our enjoyment. Roberval I am sure has a grand
-future before it. Dr. Lovely, one of the most eminent physicians of the
-United States, assured me that he had discovered coal-oil there, not
-five miles from the hotel, and also some stone (I forget what) of which
-he was taking specimens away with him. He said if it was what he
-thought, it would indeed be a bonanza.
-
-It appears to me that Roberval would be especially beneficial for those
-suffering from nervous exhaustion or debility, or tendency to
-consumption. The pure mountain air, the quiet, the absence of rush and
-excitement, must surely be most grateful to such parties, while for
-those who want a livelier existence, the trips in excursion steam-boats,
-the visits to various other fishing grounds, the power of jumping on the
-railroad that comes to your door and whirls you off for a few hours to
-other lakes, is a matter not to be lost sight of. Added to the perfect
-inside comfort of this hotel--baths on your bedroom flat--the immense
-piazza runs the full length of the building, affording in wet weather an
-excellent promenade, with a view of the lovely lake, and what I much
-appreciated was the absence of the horrid gong calling you to meals.
-Here you are told the time for meals, and if you so desire a civil
-waiter calls you at the hour you name, but the fearful din that
-elsewhere rouses you from your pet morning sleep is absent.
-
-Entering the ladies' parlor in the evening you feel almost that you are
-in a private house. A bright fire burns in an open grate. Some fair
-lady is employing her talents at the piano in your service, and you
-enjoy some really good music, when one of the ladies asks are you to
-have a little dance or a small game of cards--the first at once, the
-latter when we are tired. After a short time small tables are brought
-in, the guests group into little coteries, each one retires when he
-will, after enjoying all the comforts of a home with the liberty of an
-hotel.
-
-I must not forget to state that at the village, about a mile from the
-hotel, is a Roman Catholic Church and fine Ursuline Convent, a
-delightful boarding school for young ladies, who enjoy boating every day
-and pleasant little trips to an island now belonging to the Nuns. There
-is also a telegraph in the hotel, and any amount of vehicles and horses
-and boats for visitors--also cheaper boarding houses in the village for
-those who require them.
-
-During the few days I stayed there, one or two funny incidents occurred.
-On one occasion I had an old man to drive me, when I said, "I hope it
-will not rain before we get home." "I hope it won't, indeed," he said,
-"I am not dry yet since yesterday." "How is that?" I asked. Said he: "I
-was out with that party from the hotel who when out fishing were so
-drenched, and the storm being so great I stayed by the hotel kitchen
-fire instead of going home to change; but, madame," as a sudden thought
-struck him, "you live at the hotel, is there a doctor living there?"
-Having been there only a few hours, I did not know, but inquired why he
-asked. "The fact is, I hear that when people come from Louisiana or
-Paris, a party of ten always brings a doctor with them" (a party
-recently arrived just numbering ten), "and hearing that I had a son ill,
-one gentleman said if I would take him to see my son or bring my son to
-him, he would try and cure him." "Well," I asked, "have you done so?"
-"But no," he said, "he is English." (I spoke in French and he thought I
-was a French Canadian.) "What difference would that make?" "Why,
-madame, do you think the English know anything?" "Well," I said,
-"perhaps a little; you might try the doctor." At the same time I was
-quite prepared to hear that he was a victim of some practical joke from
-his statement that every ten persons coming from Louisiana or Paris
-brought a doctor with them; I little expected the dnouement. "Oh! my
-son would not see him at all. He said, 'father, do you wish me to die
-at once?' But, madame, I would not have minded taking him to the doctor
-myself. You don't think that even though English he would have given
-him something to kill him at once?" "Oh! no," I answered, "I am sure he
-would not do that." But my story does not end here. On entering the
-parlor, where several were seated, I addressed a peculiarly pleasant
-lady near me, and began to narrate for their benefit my conversation
-with the old driver, when I noticed my hearer give a kind of warning
-glance: and then she went off into a merry peal of laughter as the door
-opened and a gentleman popped in his head. "Come here, my dear, learn a
-lesson of humility. This, my dear lady, is my husband, Dr. Lovely" (I
-have learned since that he is one of the most well-known of American
-physicians); "he is the Englishman, who can't know anything."
-
-The doctor, who enjoyed the joke, engaged the same driver next day to
-have his fun as much as anything. After a good deal of skirmishing, he
-elicited all from the old coachman, who, however, said, though English,
-if Dr. L---- was a Roman Catholic, he might induce his son to trust him,
-as he believed that the little bottles he showed him really contained
-_des remdes_. I know that the doctor explained to him that, though not
-a Roman Catholic, he attended nearly all the members of that
-denomination in the United States, and there was some kind of
-negotiation going on when I left. They may have come to terms, and the
-boy cured, despite himself. Perhaps this poor old chap, living for many
-years utterly isolated from civilization, might have the same horror of
-_Les terribles Anglais_ that the English peasantry had of Napoleon the
-First, who, when children were refractory, were threatened to be given
-to 'Bonaparte. And, now, as some of our English people may be hard on
-this old French-Canadian, I must tell you that the clergyman's wife,
-attached to some very prominent hospital in one of the large cities of
-the United States, said they came across sometimes very odd cases, and
-instanced that of a patient coming to the hospital, and, being ordered
-to take a bath, said he had never taken a bath in his life, and must go
-home and consult his wife. He went and never returned!!! This, in one
-of the largest cities of America. So don't too much despise the old
-backwoodsman's prejudice. As Mrs. Lovely most kindly invited me to pay
-her a visit, I may yet tell you more about this very true tale.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. LEON SPRINGS.*
-
-
-It is fully fifty years ago since my father took me to Three Rivers en
-route for St. Leon Springs. We were most hospitably received by Mr.
-Lajoie (father of the present dry goods merchant of Three Rivers), and
-his good lady, and Mr. Faucher de St. Maurice, father of the present
-gentleman of the same name. Of the party were, I think, Mr. Gingras,
-whose son, brother-in-law of Mr. Dorion, recently deceased, was the
-first I think to establish the reputation of these waters. After a
-sumptuous repast at Mr. Lajoie's, we were driven to St. Leon Springs,
-and this us what I remember of it then: a steep sandy hill, up which was
-walking a pale, thin young lady, whom my father pointed out to me as
-Miss G----; that lady has been in bed seven years, you see her walking
-now; whether the cure was permanent or not I have no means of
-ascertaining, but Mr. Campbell, late proprietor of St. Leon Springs,
-told me only two weeks since that he remembered Miss G---- perfectly.
-Mr. Campbell further told me since that his father had noticed the
-cattle drinking at this spring, and finding it had a peculiar taste, had
-it analyzed, and gave to the public this boon for the afflicted, and
-health-preserving drink for the sick. We had tea that day at the
-Springs on a deal table, without table-cloth, seated on wooden benches,
-while carpenters were putting the roof on a large building we sat in. I
-presume this was the first hotel, rather a contrast to that of the
-present day, which is yearly crowded with an increased number of
-fashionable visitors from all parts of the Dominion, in search of health
-or amusement. This hotel has been very lately enlarged and fitted up
-with every modern convenience. Parties leaving Montreal by the Canadian
-Pacific Railroad, and getting off at Louiseville, will find vehicles
-waiting to take them to St. Leon Springs.
-
-This lady just alluded to, Miss G----, was one of those peculiar
-patients one hears of in a lifetime, and, as all her near relatives are
-dead and few will recognize the initial, I will inform my readers that
-Dr. A----, one of my father's physicians (now deceased), told me that
-she was afflicted with a kind of fit--cataleptic, I think, they called
-it--when she fell into a state so closely resembling death that two of
-Quebec's most prominent medical men were about to perform a post-mortem
-examination on her, when the slight quiver of an eyelid proved her still
-alive, and on her recovering she told them that, though unable to make
-the slightest motion, she had heard and seen all that had passed, and
-Dr. A---- was exceedingly indignant that such a subject should have been
-sent to him as an ordinary patient, as the same thing might have
-occurred again. He was, if I mistake not, then residing in Halifax and
-he told me that all the instructions he received were to provide a
-suitable lodging for a nervous patient, who could afford to pay well for
-a quiet private residence. Accordingly, Dr. A---- persuaded a
-well-to-do Scotch farmer to take her as a boarder. For a time all went
-well, though she would go off into a sort of trance, when she lay
-apparently dead for perhaps three days and returned to consciousness,
-often cognizant of what had occurred during her semi-deathlike state.
-But on one occasion her second sight, if you can so term it, was so
-great, she terrified the old people so, they begged the doctor to remove
-her, saying she was no canny. The facts were these:--On one occasion
-Miss G---- fell into her cataleptic state, and the doctor not expecting
-her to revive before a certain time, said he would not call till the
-following Thursday. But on the Tuesday, receiving a summons from a very
-old patient, twenty miles distant, he decided on calling on her _en
-route_. The weather being rainy, he asked for a covered vehicle, and
-the only one procurable was a shabby, very old-fashioned waggon. In the
-meantime, Miss G---- awoke from her trance, and said, "the doctor is
-coming." "No," said the mistress of the house; "he is not coming till
-Thursday." "He is coming now," said Miss G----, "he is at the red gate"
-(a gate some distance from the back of the house, and too far for any
-sound to reach)--"what a funny carriage he has." When he really drove
-up in this queer-looking vehicle, the landlady was so scared, she
-uttered that exclamation, "she is no canny," and insisted that board
-should be taken elsewhere. I offer no explanation--let the savants do
-that--I only narrate facts I vouch for.
-
-
-
-
- *MY SECOND VISIT TO ST. LEON SPRINGS.*
-
-
-Going by the Canadian Pacific Railroad to Louiseville, we took a trap
-awaiting at the station, and, after a drive over a rather pretty country
-road, arrived at St. Leon Springs. Alas! the season was over, only Mr.
-Thomas and his son, and Mr. Langlois, were there, and a few servants.
-Nevertheless, we saw enough to convince us what a delightful health
-resort this must be in summer. When I say health resort, I do not mean
-pleasure resort, though there is plenty of amusement for reasonable
-people, who would find pleasant companionship, dancing, music, drives,
-croquet, lawn-tennis sufficient for summer heat; but, we speak now of
-St. Leon Springs as a retreat for the really ill or convalescent, and as
-such it must simply be perfection. A large hotel, nicely kept, numerous
-bath-rooms, all fitted up with an abundant supply of St. Leon water for
-bathing, excellent meals, well-cooked and nicely served, as we saw even
-during our brief and unexpected stay (I have never eaten such perfect
-home-made bread as there), with the drinking of these health-giving
-waters, must surely be of incalculable benefit. Twitting Mr. Langlois
-on the supposition that perhaps in cities the St. Leon water is in part
-manufactured, Mr. Langlois told us a funny incident. He said, I think it
-was in Toronto, he overheard some one saying, as his trucks came in
-loaded with barrels: "I wonder how much of this is manufactured?" On
-the impulse of the moment, Mr. L---- gave a hint to the carters to dump
-the casks on the pavement instead of taking them through the yard.
-
-As anticipated, a policeman came up and remonstrated on impeding the
-sidewalk. Soon a crowd gathered. Just what Mr. L---- desired. When
-spoken to, he said: "Of course, it was an oversight, the water should
-have been taken into the yard; but as it was there, he would like to
-prove to the people assembled how genuine was the water, by tapping
-several barrels, and, igniting with a match the gas, said: "My friends,
-can any of you manufacture gas in water to burn like this?" Mr. L----
-is not by any means a man you would credit with being a religious
-enthusiast; but I will never forget the solemnity of the act, as,
-raising his hand towards Heaven, he uttered these words: "He who made
-these waters can alone make the gas."
-
-Mr. Thomas, a wealthy gentleman, with his son, for health and
-occupation, takes the management here. The latter, quite a sport, drove
-us with his blood horses to the station, at a pace that made me tremble.
-There a grand old-fashioned coach with four spanking horses waits at the
-railroad station to drive you in style to the hotel. Come and try them,
-my fast American friends. I will conscientiously stick to the
-old-fashioned one-horse buckboard--not elegant and hardly comfortable,
-but very safe.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. RAYMOND.*
-
-
-About eight years ago my dear husband and myself took rooms for the
-summer with a Mr. Ignace Dry, a carpenter. The house, a very large one
-of many buildings, was prettily situated on the banks of the river.
-Facing the house an immense barn indicated the prosperity of the farm.
-In course of conversation I remarked to Mr. D. how astonished I was to
-find such a handsome church, fine shops, and a musical choir, with a
-thriving village, in a place we had only heard of a few years before.
-"You will be more surprised, dear lady," he said, "when I inform you
-that I came here fifty years ago, a boy of fifteen, against my people's
-will, with another cousin, and broke the first road in what was all then
-bush." "How did you hear of this place at all?" "Well, from the
-Indians, and I went out with the surveyors and thought what a splendid
-place it was for a settlement, and said so, but my father would not hear
-of it. However, one day, my cousin, Joseph Dry, said to me after
-church, 'Have you decided on coming to squat or take possession and make
-an opening on these lands?' 'My family will not hear of it,' I
-answered. 'Well, then, come without their leave; if they see you
-succeed, they will be quite satisfied.'" So Dry and his cousin started
-off right after mass, the equipment of the former being a loaf of bread
-and piece of pork procured from his sister, whom he let into the secret,
-about half a bag of potatoes for seed, a hatchet, and his working
-clothes and a little salt. The boys walked out about fifteen miles: the
-one, my friend Dry, remained at the east end, his cousin at the west.
-These two houses now form the boundary in a certain measure of the
-village of St. Raymond. Mr. Dry told me his first occupation was to
-plant some potatoes, then build a small hut, and he said for food he had
-only to dip a line into the river back of the site of his house to
-procure all the fish he needed. On this he lived, with fruit and a
-little flour procured later. Such was the commencement of this
-prosperous village. The cousin, Joseph Dry, still kept a few years ago
-intact his first cottage, though building a comfortable house beside it.
-
-
-
- ANOTHER PIONEER
-
-
-In the autumn we moved for a month nearer the village, and occupied the
-house owned by Mr. Beaupr. It was a commodious dwelling, neatly
-furnished, and on my remarking a rather nice bureau in my room, and
-inquiring if they had a cabinet-maker in the village, my landlady
-answered, "Oh! my husband made that himself, and, though never
-apprenticed to any trade, built nearly the whole of this house himself."
-and then the old gentleman, pointing to the other side of the river,
-said, "Do you notice, madame, that clump of trees; well, beneath that
-rock is a cavern which I discovered and made a residence of when, as a
-boy of thirteen, I walked from St. Augustine across the country to
-there, to see what I could do for myself. I had no near relations, and
-determined if possible, by squatting, to get a home. I built a
-projecting porch, and lived for many a month in that cavern. I earned
-my living by doing odd jobs for the farmers, who came from some
-distance, and helped to row them over in a scow to St. Raymond proper,
-now the village, to get their horses shod, and while waiting for their
-return, noticed how the blacksmiths worked; then it occurred to me how
-well a blacksmith would do on my side of the river (thus saving the
-crossing), and I commenced to learn, and here I am, the master of a
-comfortable home and several farms"--the reward of energy and favorable
-circumstances, which brought the railroad to their very doors, and with
-large stores opening for the supply of the railroad employees, and the
-influx of summer visitors, has made the desert blossom like a rose, and
-a charming village (the intersecting waters spanned by a pretty bridge),
-spring in a few years from the bush.
-
-Mr. Panet, advocate, and his charming wife are residents here. Mr. P.,
-representative and nephew of Mrs. Shakspeare, wife of General
-Shakspeare, daughter of Bernard Panet, of old Quebec memory.
-
-
-
- OCTOBER 28, 1890.
-
-
-I have just returned from St. Raymond and learnt some additional facts
-anent the Drys I found interesting, and detail them for public benefit.
-The daughter-in-law of Joseph Dry said her father-in-law was the first,
-except sportsmen and Indians, who had ever been to St. Raymond; a little
-pathway through the woods was their inroad. He started to find the
-River St. Anne, which runs through St. Raymond; he found his walk very
-fatiguing from Lorette, and arriving at the Cape, under which runs the
-St. John railway now, was delighted to find he was nearing his
-destination. He named the hill Cap Joyeuse, which name it still bears.
-On wishing to see the first cabin he had built, she said, by recent
-surveys, it would be situated in the middle of the river, as the waters
-of the St Anne river had gradually washed the bank away. The end of the
-first cottage built is still extant, every plank used in it being sawed
-by hand, and the portrait of Mr. Joseph Dry hangs on its walls.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. AUGUSTIN,*
-
- ABOUT 15 MILES WEST OF QUEBEC.
-
-
-I do not know that I ever heard much of St. Augustin in my earlier days,
-except as the residence of Mr. Gale, an oldtime school master, who fixed
-his residence there, and taught many of the (after) prominent men of
-Quebec. His wife, a prim little lady of wax-doll complexion and flaxen
-hair done up in frizzes, was quite a character as well as her husband.
-A very kind-hearted little lady she was, with a peculiar gift of
-hospitality, and her cakes and home-made wine were of wide renown. Mr.
-Gale had a taste for antiquities; a small museum, in great part
-contributions of curiosities, the gifts of his admiring scholars, was
-one of his cherished parlor ornaments.
-
-His was a school of the _ancien rgime_, but in its best sense, though
-religiously a day was appointed for the pulling out of teeth, those for
-administering sulphur and molasses and other time-honored medicines,
-happily or unhappily exploded.
-
-Nevertheless, Mr. Gale's was a thoroughly comfortable home, and his
-students had a true regard for himself and good wife, testified often in
-later years by his _anciens lves_ constantly sending him contributions
-of rare articles to add to his collection.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. ANDR--NEXT PARISH BELOW KAMOURASKA.*
-
- "In the days when we went gipseying a long time ago."
-
-
-About seventy-five years ago or more a wealthy Englishman, John S.
-Campbell, came out from the old country and commenced a large business
-in lumber and ship building at the part of St. Andr called Pointe
-Sche. Here he built a beautiful residence with every luxury and
-appliances then known, splendid walks in the shrubbery, beautiful
-gardens, and even a residence for a physician, as at that time there was
-a great deal of ship fever, and he employed a great number of workmen in
-his ship building and other mercantile business. He brought out his
-wife (with her lady's maid), who, accustomed to society life, must have
-been indeed startled at the contrast of her surroundings, for here she
-was virtually in a wilderness. It is true that previous to the railroad
-from Quebec to the lower ports, these same villages had much more life
-in a business point than to-day, for then all travellers stopped at the
-wayside inns, and there being no facilities for going or coming from
-Quebec, the shopkeepers who brought down in their schooners goods at
-certain seasons of the year did a fine business, and really large
-fortunes were made by many: an apt illustration of the truth of the
-vulgar old proverb, "that what is one man's meat is another man's
-poison," for the railroad, which is such a boon to the farmers and those
-bordering its route, has proved utterly destructive to the old-fashioned
-inns and shops on the old route, for the transfer being solely by
-vehicles, a regular influx of travellers was expected and received, thus
-giving life to the village and current cash.
-
-Mr. J. S. Campbell and his lady becoming after some years thoroughly
-disgusted, abandoned the place, and so swiftly, I many years after,
-about forty years ago, found a book belonging to the family in the
-disused dining-room. I heard from one of the family to-day who own this
-lovely property now, and use it as a summer residence (Mrs. Rankin of
-Dorchester street), that a caretaker had been left in charge of the
-property; if so, his conscience must have been very lax, for it was the
-custom of all those giving picnics at Kamouraska, who wished to do so,
-to use the house as well as the grounds, and to simply walk in at open
-doors and take temporary possession. Well, on one occasion my
-father-in-law's family had a kind of picnic, but, though going up to the
-Campbell grounds, had brought their provisions to a neat little wayside
-inn a short distance, from the mill and wharf built by the aforesaid J.
-S. Campbell; and as I always preferred a quiet read to those excursions
-(I fear I am naturally rather lazy), I said I would await their return
-at the small hotel--its quiet and cleanliness were very inviting.
-"But," said Mr. McP. (I think I hear the words as he addressed me often
-in fun), "Mistress Charlotte, if you stay behind, you are responsible
-for the dinner." I promised in good faith, and with a firm resolve of
-doing my duty, that all should be in order on their return, and, telling
-the landlady at what hour lunch must be ready, made arrangements for an
-hour of delightful repose, by ensconcing myself into the most cosy of
-sofas with an interesting novel. As the old grandmother's clock tolled
-forth the midday hour, it struck me I had better see how the dinner was
-progressing for the hungry folks expected soon. Fortunately, I did not
-delay, for, to my dismay, I found the lamb-chops put to boil, and the
-green peas frying in the frying-pan. By hastily changing their
-positions, I managed matters so as to disguise my carelessness, and so
-all was well that ends well.
-
-A thoroughly respectable house like the Campbell House, of Pointe Sche,
-could not be without its ghost, and it's doubly guaranteed by having two
-of them: one a lady who is heard to moan and sob and say she was shut up
-from every one (it is presumed Mrs. C., who, instead of dying of ennui
-and country fare, took the more sensible plan of returning to England);
-the other, the apparition of a gentleman, supposed to have been murdered
-because he disappeared--a rejected suitor put on board a vessel by Mr.
-C. for making too violent love to a cousin and quarrelling with a more
-favored lover. I have exorcised several ghosts already, and would like
-to try my observations on those inhabitants of a higher, or, more
-likely, our earthly sphere, to whom the unoccupancy of this fine mansion
-might be a convenience.
-
-
-
-
- *LES EBOULEMENTS.*
-
-
-So called from the tremblings of constant earthquakes, which with
-apparent volcanic action has thrown up hill after hill so steep. I can
-compare the ascent and descent to nothing else but a winter sleighing
-slide. In fact, the hills are almost perpendicular, and almost
-inaccessible to a nervous party, who in descending feels as if he must
-fall on the horse's tail, and ascending drop out of the cart behind.
-Yet to the young and active it is a wild, lovely summer resort, its
-unusual scenery presenting a most pleasurable and novel spectacle. In
-fact, my friends, if you have a desire to visit Switzerland and cannot
-compass it, just go to Les Eboulements, and very little imagination will
-help you to transport yourself there. Cradled in mist, perched on some
-rocky elevation, with the simple people about you, you can easily deem
-yourself in the land of William Tell. But, did I say simple? yes, with
-a spice of modern craft, for I well remember a friend being ill asking
-me, as it was a non-licensed place, to ask the landlady for a little
-stimulant of any kind, as she might give it to me instead of a
-gentleman. The answer to my demand was the query, "What would you
-have?" "Well, if possible, port wine," and a bottle of excellent
-quality was forthcoming, and also the remark, "if more is required, in
-fact, as much as is necessary can be obtained. We have plenty for our
-own use." As these people were great fish traders with St. Pierre
-Miquelon, in view of recent developments as to the smuggling business I
-have my thoughts, but as I believe in free trade between all nations,
-and I should think it no sin to smuggle myself, I do not condemn them.
-
-Apropos of smuggling, a funny incident came under my observation. A
-young married cousin some years ago lived on the border dividing Canada
-from the United States, and while (with the fresh memory of the Fenian
-raids) countenanced, as was said, by the Americans, expressed great
-dislike to Brother Jonathan. He dubbed her a thorough Yankee, and she
-proved herself a very cute one. Well, these ladies had been accustomed
-under lax custom house discipline to drive over to St. Albans and
-purchase many effects, cotton especially, at a very much less price than
-on Canadian soil, and were very indignant when a new official was
-appointed, who openly boasted that no tricks would be played upon him.
-That was enough for my sprightly cousin. She arranged a plan with her
-sister, went over in a light waggon, and when stopped at the frontier by
-the aforesaid young clerk on her return, who, with many apologies,
-requested leave to search her vehicle, answered in a tone of impatience,
-"Well, search my waggon as much as you please, but don't wake my baby."
-She held in her arms a good-sized baby in long clothes, a heavy veil
-covering the face. The official searched and found nothing contraband.
-He was, however, very much disgusted to hear later that the baby was a
-mass of dress and cotton goods, and that Mrs. K., as she walked up and
-down the platform soothing her supposed infant, was inwardly chuckling
-over her clever trick played on the too confident custom house clerk.
-
-
-
-
- *SOCIETY IN QUEBEC FIFTY YEARS AGO.*
-
-
-Fifty years ago Quebec was a prominent military station, and from that
-circumstance, as well as the fact that it counted amongst its members so
-many of the truly good old French families of the _ancienne noblesse_,
-there was then none of that petty jealousy between French and English.
-They had fought valiantly, but when peace was declared they shook hands
-heartily and became friends. The English reserve was tempered by French
-suavity, and as Captain Warburton, in his Stadacona _Feuilleton_, says,
-"There were such a number of pretty girls in Quebec, and so attractive,
-such pleasant manners, combining maidenly reserve with refined
-out-spokenness, they were irresistible, and some English mammas, it was
-said, murmured sadly when they heard their darling sons were to be sent
-to Canada, fearing they would be effectually captured, as they certainly
-would be, in the silken but enduring nets of the fair demoiselles;
-however, they must have been satisfied eventually, for the ladies of
-whom the military gentlemen deprived us of have done credit to their
-native city."
-
-Old Quebecers will remember Miss L., wife of General Elliot; Miss A.,
-wife of General Pipon; Miss P., wife of General Shakspeare, and dozens
-of others; but I have before me at least twenty beautiful and
-accomplished ladies, our society belles who accompanied the red coats to
-England. What a different aspect Quebec wore when the military were
-first taken away! it seemed as if the silence of death reigned, and why
-all should have been taken has ever been an unanswered question.
-
-Of people prominent in society in my early days were Mr. Lemesurier,
-Judge McCord, Mr. Berthelot (he gave me a French grammar, I remember, he
-had published; he was father-in-law of Sir Louis LaFontaine), Mr.
-Faribault, the Hon. John Malcolm Fraser, Mr. Symes, whose pretty and
-amiable daughter married the son of the Empress Eugenie's trusty friend,
-the Marquis de Bassano.
-
-Besides the house occupied by the Hon. George Primrose, there was at
-that time but one small house used by the military, and now the site of
-the splendid residence of the Hon. Mr. Thibodeau, facing the Governor's
-garden. At the intersecting street facing the river is the old Langham
-house, still occupied by her grand-daughter, Mrs. T.; a few doors from
-there the residence of Chief Justice Bowen, whose ladies entertained a
-great deal, and one of whose daughters was the wife of the late Rev. Mr.
-Houseman.
-
-We will take a skip now to where Palace gate formerly stood, and watch
-G. H. Parke, Esq., a noted whip (father of Dr. Parke), and see him guide
-his tandem through one of the sally-ports to the houses of the members
-of the tandem, who could in vain hope to follow him. Mr. P., who
-delighted in guiding the club through most intricate places, had taken
-the measure of the sally-port and knew his cariole would pass through,
-and thus triumphantly headed the others, who feared to follow him.
-Should he read this account of his old exploit, I am sure it would yet
-bring up a smile.
-
-The remembrance of this feat recalls a story I have heard of the time of
-the noted Chamberlain gang. There were no houses at one time between
-the grand house here and a large one opposite St. Patrick's church, at
-that time occupied by Miss or Mrs. M., an elderly lady of ample means,
-who occupied the present residence of J. Scott, Esq., formerly the home
-of Mr. Faucher de St. Maurice. This Chamberlain was the leader of a
-notorious gang, who for some time held Quebec in a state of terror;
-their rapacity, cruelty and audacity exceeded anything ever before seen,
-and they continued their course with impunity till a most providential
-circumstance caused their discovery. Well, one of their exploits was to
-get one of their gang into Mrs. M.'s as ostensible man servant to rob
-the house. Late at night one of the maids discerned a light in the
-basement and heard voices, indicating that there were robbers in the
-dwelling. She thought for a moment of trying to run and get help from
-the guard, but fearing that unlocking the back door might arouse the
-burglars, she decided on barricading the room in which her mistress
-slept, hoping to be able to call for help to some passer-by; but alas!
-none came; the robbers came up, quickly destroyed her barricade, and
-though she fought bravely with some fire-wood,--the only weapon at her
-hand--was overpowered, gagged, tied up with her mistress in a carpet,
-and so left for hours. When the milkman and butcher came and called
-ineffectually for admittance, the doors were forced, and they were
-released after much suffering; such was a sample of some of their
-exploits.
-
-Leaving St. Patrick's church, nearly opposite this residence, we go on
-to and up Esplanade Hill, till we come to a pretty little church, and it
-was the sacrilege perpetrated here that was the cause of their
-discovery. Amongst other articles they had stolen a solid silver statue
-of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Every effort was made to trace the thieves,
-but ineffectually, till the curiosity of an old country woman found them
-out. Somewhere, I think, back of Point Levis, there lived a Canadian
-farmer, whose old domestic had become very much disgusted at the changed
-aspect of the home--from a respectable, quiet domicile it had become a
-most disorderly house; half intoxicated people coming in and out at all
-hours, arriving with carioles loaded with things kept out of her sight.
-She noticed that she was always sent off while they unloaded, and they
-made their way to a hut in the woods built for boiling maple sugar, and
-that huge fires were built, though no sugar was made. Finally, she
-followed the gang secretly, and went close enough to hear, though not to
-see, what was going on, and overheard these words uttered: "I am very
-sorry for you, my poor little virgin, but you must boil in the pot too.
-Ah! I'll keep this little finger to remember you by." Horrified beyond
-expression, the old woman returned swiftly to the house and kept a
-terrified watch; her master came in, and most of the men drove off; but
-the one whose voice she had recognized was so intoxicated that he fell
-into a heavy sleep, and out of his pocket fell the tiny silver finger of
-the statue. Seizing the first opportunity, she sought the parish priest
-and told him all. He at once connected the small finger with the recent
-church robbery, enjoined the most absolute silence on the woman, and
-advised her for her own sake as well as that of others to go about her
-work as usual and so excite no suspicion. In the meantime he
-communicated with the authorities, who wisely determined to make no
-display of their knowledge, as the silver was melted and all traces
-destroyed; but on the occasion of the next burglary, a posse of police
-instantly surrounded the place, and effectually captured in time the
-whole gang, several of whom were hanged.
-
-They owed their long immunity to the fact that several people of
-position were implicated. Some, against their will, too terrified to
-break from them. One man, on the scaffold, confessed that a young man
-unwarily brought into their meshes had begged leave to be permitted to
-break off from them on his taking oath never to betray them. A seeming
-acquiescence was yielded, and an appointment made to take a row on the
-river to negotiate where no one could overhear their conversation. As
-soon as out of sight and sound the man confessed he had silenced him
-effectually by a knock on the head and a pitch into the river.
-
-Leaving the little church on the Esplanade, on reaching St. Ann, and
-turning to the left, at the top of Ursule hill, you find a double brown
-house, with peculiar pointed turret windows. Here I lived when about
-eight years old, but most distinctly do I remember its surroundings.
-Come in and sit with me in the end parlor window and I will point out to
-you Colonel (afterwards General) Macdonald, in his brave uniform, the
-picture of dignity, coming down, the steps of the building formerly
-occupied by Dr. Boswell; also the house where Dr. Lemieux now lives,
-some officers (Guards, I think) had their quarters, and pretty lively
-quarters they were. Most of these gentlemen were rich, young, full of
-fun, and quite regardless of consequences. One of their eccentricities
-was to insist on a favorite horse being brought in by the front door and
-harnessed in one of the large rooms off the entrance. I used to watch
-these proceedings with great glee. No doubt they paid richly for their
-whistle when settling day came with their landlord. But they could well
-afford to pay for their pranks.
-
-Opposite this house, the door facing Ann street is still the solid
-residence, the home some years since of the much-lamented Judge Alleyne;
-in the early days I speak of, the house of Mr. Le Mesurier, a merchant
-then, but previously an officer in ----, and carrying a reminder of the
-same in an empty sleeve, a noble mark of valor.
-
-To be a good carver was then an absolute necessity, for all carving was
-done at table, and Mr. Le Mesurier piqued himself on always discharging
-this duty himself, which he did most skillfully by means of a peculiarly
-constructed knife and fork. Once seated at a side-table (I had been
-invited to tea with some of the younger members of the family), I
-watched him do so with great admiration. I do not recall precisely who
-else were there; but one figure is specially impressed on my memory,
-that of Mrs. Kerr (mother of the late Judge Kerr), a very stately lady
-in pink silk and high white plumes.
-
-Mrs. Le Mesurier, although at the head of fashionable society, was one
-of the old-time good housekeepers. I think I see her now with her keys
-in hand, giving directions to some domestic. She had a large
-family--all popular; but the two special favorites were, I think, Miss
-Harriet, who is married to General Elliot, and Henry Le Mesurier, whose
-former lovely residence on the St. Lewis road still exists. He had a
-peculiarly winning charm of manner, inherited, as I saw in a very short
-interview I had with him, by his son George.
-
-I will now take you up the Esplanade and stop at a cut-stone house on
-the corner of St. Lewis road, once used as the residence of the
-Lieut.-Governor. It was conveniently situated, and there was great
-indignation expressed when the project was mooted of buying Spencer
-Wood, for, though in most respects suitable, many said it was too far,
-for those whose position entitled them to vice-regal entertainments
-would find horse hire a heavy tax. For, my friends, in those early days
-the almighty dollar was not worshipped as now; in fact, very few of
-those moving in the highest society were rich--good family, culture and
-education were the tests, and no amount of money would have introduced a
-vulgar person into the charmed circle; in fact, permission to subscribe
-to the Quebec assemblies was a matter of almost as great moment as
-admittance to old London Almacks. An instance of which may be found in
-this over-true tale told me by an aged aunt who knew all the
-circumstances. Briefly, it was this: A rich tradesman lived on Mountain
-Hill, who had a pretty wife, who, not content with every needful luxury
-for her happiness, must needs sigh for, to her, the unattainable (that
-was _entre_ to the castle). On one occasion a military gentleman of
-high position who owed this tradesman some money said he regretted the
-circumstance, and that if he would give him time he would do anything
-possible for him in return. "Well," said Mr. Blank, "if you could do
-something for my wife, I should not only consider the bill paid, but be
-grateful too." "What is asked?" said the colonel. "Just this: you see,
-sir, my wife is young, and has taken it into her foolish little head she
-must get to one of the castle balls. Could you get her in?" "Nothing
-easier, my dear sir; on my arm she can come in unquestioned." So grand
-preparations were made by the lady, and at the appointed time she went
-to the castle, triumphant, on her cavalier's arm, advanced to the door
-where the cards of admission were received, when the official in waiting
-said, "Enter, colonel, but Mrs. ---- is not known here, where is her
-invitation?" Mortified to death, it was said that Mrs. Blank, unwilling
-to face the occupants of the ladies' dressing-room, turned and fled
-precipitately in her slippers and without her outward wraps, rushed
-home, and that chagrin and cold brought on a severe illness that
-resulted in consumption. On her death-bed, unable to forgive the wound
-to her pride, she made her daughter promise that, eschewing all thoughts
-of love, she would promise her to marry only a man of such position she
-would be able to look down on those who had snubbed her mother. Being
-young, rich and pretty, this young girl accepted an aged man of very
-high rank, refusing one of the finest young men in Quebec, of whom she
-was fond, and commenced a life of unhappiness with a gentleman who in
-his dotage made her live almost a recluse in the country, and dress up
-and go through the drill as if he were commanding still.
-
-His death finally rescued her from such a life, but by that time her
-nervous system had become so thoroughly unhinged, her mind gave way, and
-the last I knew of her was her being sent to the lunatic asylum, having
-no child or relative to care for her. A sad comment on an ill-placed
-mother's ambition.
-
-At the opposite corner of said stone house was a pretty little residence
-occupied at one time and owned by the late Major Temple, adjoining which
-was his father-in-law's residence, the late Hon. Chief Justice Jonathan
-Sewell. Both these houses still stand, but in vain I look for the
-pretty lace curtains, and the two parrots on their stands, calling to
-you through the bright flowers in the window of the late Major Temple's
-residence. As an old Quebecer I am ashamed to say that pretty house has
-been the one blot on the whole of Quebec's loveliest street. It has
-been turned into a petty candy shop, a couple of bottles of sweets, two
-or three sugar-sticks and halfpenny cakes, and a notice, "Registry
-Office for Servants," replaces the view of the parrots and flowers.
-Were I rich I should purchase the property myself, and for old times let
-some one occupy it who would keep up somewhat its former appearance.
-Such a thing would not have occurred in Montreal. The Montrealers have
-too much ambition for their city to let it deteriorate, and consequently
-property becomes more valuable every day. Why, to think Americans
-should have been permitted to carry off bodily the house where
-Montgomery's body was laid and are making a fortune out of it, having
-set it up as an Indian curiosity shop in some part of the States. Why
-not have done it here?
-
-Strolling on through the beautiful St. Louis Gate, past the new armory,
-certainly a credit to the old city, and past rows of handsome new
-houses, we come to a solid looking building with a golden lion sign.
-When I looked at it, I wondered if it was chosen to beguile the innocent
-into the impression that they were at the old chien d'or. It does not
-need that it has memories enough of its own, for here lived the late A.
-Joseph, Esq., and his amiable wife, one of the most charming of
-hostesses, and who gave us any number of pleasant parties, but almost
-every house on that street (then, as now, quite a fashionable one) is
-associated with pleasant recollections. The one just inside the toll
-gate on the left was then occupied by Capt. Charles Campbell, a retired
-officer of Her Majesty's 99th, I think, father of our old friend, A. C.,
-joint Prothonotary of Quebec.
-
-Mr. Le Moine, in his able work, "The Explorations of Eastern Latitudes,"
-by Jonathan Old Buck, F. G. S. Q., so graphically depicted the Plains of
-Abraham and its surroundings, I can but touch on old personal memories,
-which as they please me in writing, for I live but in the past, may
-serve to amuse you, my readers, in an idle hour. I will now stop at
-Spencer Wood, and visit the pretty home of our favorite author.
-
-The house at present occupied by Judge Bosse, Quebec, was fitted up in
-1860 for Lord Monck, Spencer Wood having been burnt down on 12th March,
-1860. Spencer Wood residence having been rebuilt and fitted up in
-accordance with the requirements of a permanently selected vice-regal
-residence, was successively occupied by the following parties:
-
-Sir Edmund Head, 1860; Lord Monck, 1861; Sir N. F. Belleau,
-Lieut.-Governor, 1867; Hon. R. E. Caron, Lieut.-Governor, afterwards Sir
-R. E. Caron, 1870; Hon. Luc Letellier, 1878; Hon. Theodore Robitaille,
-1879; Hon. Mr. Masson, 1884; Hon. Auguste Ral Angers, 1889, who married
-in April, 1890, Emelie Le Moine, daughter of the late Alex. Le Moine,
-who now resides there, Oct. 15th, 1890.
-
-
-
-
- *SPENCER GRANGE, RESIDENCE OF
- JAMES MACPHERSON LE MOINE,
- F.R.L.C.*
-
-
-You drive through a pretty road, heavily lined with trees, but through
-the foliage discern a neat cottage at the left, frequently occupied by
-the pastors of St. Michael's church. On the right, facing the grass
-plots and bedded in trees stands a very pretty residence, quite spacious
-inside, and containing every comfort and elegance, presided over by a
-charming hostess and her daughters. Mrs. L., the most amiable of
-ladies, spares no fatigue in showing you all that can interest, and
-there is a great deal to see at the Grange. The parlor windows look on
-a lawn skirted with various trees, where many a wild bird makes its
-nest, and looking outwards, and listening to their varied notes, you
-could fancy yourself in a deep wood. From a pretty dining-room you pass
-through a passage lined with marble busts of the ancient heroes of
-Greece and Rome, into the grapery, where the heavy clusters of grapes
-look too lovely to be plucked. An aviary adjoins this, and at times the
-soft cooing of doves mingles with the other caged inmates and the notes
-of the wild birds in the adjacent shrubbery. All is so quiet here, you
-might fancy yourself miles from civilization. It is a fitting home for a
-literary man, and bears everywhere an impress of elegance and
-refinement. Mr. Le Moine has some very curious heads of rare animals
-and numerous trophies of the chase and rare birds sent by admiring
-friends. The odor of the new-mown hay and the varied scent of the
-flowers complete the charm of this pretty home. Amongst other
-curiosities, Mr. Le Moine has the original key of one of the city gates,
-which has been presented to him. It is a very ponderous looking affair.
-
-
-
-
- *SOCIETY IN 1854.*
-
-
-We will take a stroll back, citywards, coming down the Esplanade, about
-the year 1850. We notice, as we near the Esplanade, the sound of the
-band in full force. The Esplanade benches are crowded with ladies.
-From the windows of many houses, spectators look on the gay scene; while
-lord and lady, cavalier and belle, pass to and fro to enjoy the military
-music and a chat with their acquaintances. The militia, in some
-measure, replace the regular army, but with a difference: the latter
-were, as a general rule, men of wealth, culture, travel, and leisure
-with little else to do but make themselves, agreeable to the ladies,
-which they did so successfully as to arouse the ire of the civilians.
-Even from the few houses that face the Esplanade alone, one, at least,
-and, as in the family of Sheriff Sewell (now occupied by Mr. Hunt), no
-less than three, if not four, were carried off by English officers; and
-from houses nearly adjoining went Miss Panet, Miss Healy, two Misses
-Motz, the handsome Miss Joly, Miss Bradshaw, Miss Maxham; and a few
-doors around the corner, on St. Anne street, Miss Ashworth.
-
-Amongst the noted belles living on the Esplanade were the handsome
-Burrage ladies and the Misses Mackenzie, whose father met his death in a
-very sad manner. There was a house situated on the St. Louis road
-called the "H---- House," where (there being very large rooms to let for
-picnic use) were often held evening entertainments. On one occasion the
-bachelors gave us a ball there. It was a lovely moonlight night, but
-very cold, and, wherever there was little snow, glare ice. Mr. Mackenzie
-and his daughters drove out in safety to the door; but, on alighting, he
-slipped and broke his leg. Being a man beyond middle age, he never
-quite recovered. The shock was, I think, the prime cause of his death.
-
-C. E. Levy, Esq., occupied the house, former corner of St. Anne and the
-Esplanade. The first house opposite, on St. Anne street, was then the
-residence of Captain, afterwards Admiral Boxer, and the propinquity was
-so favorable, he induced the handsome daughter of Captain B---- to
-change her father's home for his. His widow now owns one of Quebec's
-most beautiful and costly residences on the St. Louis road. The house
-now occupied by Sir William Meredith was, when I was a child, the house
-of Judge, after Sir William Stuart. His daughter, most kindly I
-remember, sent me a doll, dressed in crimson satin, velvet and train, to
-represent Her Majesty. Its gorgeousness is still before me. The corner
-house above that was at one time occupied by Mrs. White, whose two
-handsome daughters married the brothers G---- and another took captive a
-favorite army doctor. One, her pretty young niece, if I mistake not,
-Miss McG----, afterwards Mrs. B----, lived with her here.
-
-Some years later one sees the erect, handsome old gentleman, Town-Major
-Knight, taking his daily stroll always arm-in-arm with one of his sons,
-as hale and hearty a year or two before his death as he was almost
-twenty years before. One of his daughters still resides in Quebec, the
-wife of our old but always young friend, Henry A----.
-
-It gives me so much pleasure to recall these old days, to people the
-streets of my old birthplace with dead and gone friends, who come up so
-vividly before my mental vision, I could sit for hours and bring them up
-before you; but to strangers this would be wearisome, so I'll only
-glance at one or two more, and then, with a few hasty memories of some
-of our most eminent Quebec gentlemen, turn from the past to the present.
-I cannot close without speaking of two gentlemen who occupied such a
-prominent place in gay society, Messrs. Angers and Lelivre, lawyers,
-partners and near neighbors. We always looked to them for a succession
-of most agreeable entertainments. If I am not mistaken, at the time
-they lived on Haldimand hill, and before they purchased the St. Louis
-hotel, it was divided into two houses,--one occupied by that gay old
-gentleman, Mr. Burroughs and his family, one of whose handsome
-daughters, Cecil, not long deceased, married the Hon. Mr. Garneau; the
-other still lives, I think, in Paris (Mrs. Kimber). His son John, a
-very quiet looking gentleman, most unexpectedly carried off our great
-society belle at that time, the lovely Leda L., from numerous
-competitors, mother of Madame Masson, wife of the late Governor Masson.
-But if I go on to speak of all the pretty girls of which we could boast
-at that time, I should go on for ever, so I will present to you a slight
-sketch of some of our most prominent men. Of Hon. George Okill Stuart,
-Sir James Stuart, and Hon. Henry Black so much has been written that I
-will only mention their names, and give you a slight sketch of Mr.
-Faribault, a most genial gentleman, of particularly courteous manners,
-very literary, of good old French family, and universally respected. He
-lived in the old house on whose site is built that now occupied by his
-only child and daughter, who married Quebec's famous artist, Mr. Hamel.
-Mr. Hamel had a most particular gift for catching likenesses,
-demonstrated when quite a boy. He died unfortunately quite young,
-leaving a son and daughter, who with their mother reside in her father's
-old home.
-
-Charles Gethings, son of Captain James Gethings, an Irish officer of the
-old 100th Regiment, was born in Bona Vista, Newfoundland, and came to
-this country with his father. His first residence was that occupied
-formerly by Hon. George Primrose. Captain Gethings was stricken with
-paralysis while mounting guard at Hope Gate, and died at the fourth
-house on the right hand going up towards the Fabrique. His son Charles,
-after being employed a short time in the Commissariat, then with
-Gillespie, Moffatt & Co., Montreal, subsequently in the City Bank of
-Quebec, spent many years as manager of the Quebec Bank, Quebec,
-receiving to the day of his death a liberal pension from the Quebec
-Bank. A kind father, a scrupulously upright man, the family all honor
-his memory. He sleeps in St. Matthew's churchyard vault.
-
-
-
-
- *NEW YEAR'S DAY, 1840--IN QUEBEC.*
-
-
- Old Time, with customary speed,
- Has passed us on his flying steed,
- And once again a New Year's day
- Now greets us smiling bright and gay.
-
-My young friends, I live so little in the present, so much in the past,
-I hardly know the customs of modern society, but I am not so totally out
-of the world as not to be conscious that old-time hospitalities on that
-day are quite relegated to the past, and happily the cake and wine given
-once so freely are no longer fashionable, for I think now with amaze of
-our ancient customs, and wonder how, having partaken of the lavish
-hospitality of these old days, any of our beaux could have got home
-without the aid of Dickens' traditional wheelbarrow. As it may amuse
-you I will just give you a picture of New Year's day as kept about forty
-years ago. Well, I cannot state what precise year, but one New Year's
-day the courtyard of the English Cathedral was a mass of glare ice, just
-like a skating rink, and no lady could go to service at the English
-cathedral without the assistance of a well-shod beau to help her to keep
-her equilibrium, and after service return with me to the home of one of
-our city belles. You will find the mother of the family in full dress,
-seated in a comfortable arm chair, a bright fire burning in the grate,
-magazine in hand, to while away the hour when the ready attendant will
-usher in the first visitor. A couple of young ladies beside her, in
-full dress, pink, blue or gray satin or silk dcollet, a heavy gold
-chain or valuable watch visible attached to a handsome gold watch hook
-on the side of the dress, a bouquet holder in one hand, and embroidered
-handkerchief and white kid gloves and numerous bracelets, they sit with
-all the indifference it is possible to simulate, till the announcement
-of Mr. A, soon followed by B, C, D, and E, till the room is so crowded
-only the compliments of the season can be exchanged before with a bow
-one gentleman gives place to another, and so numerous are the visitors
-in some favored houses, perhaps even eighty in a day, one of the family
-surreptitiously takes the names for future recognizance, and woe be to
-the unfortunate swain whom forgetfulness or too much occupation may have
-prevented from paying his respects; he will surely be left out of the
-list of invites for the next ball. And yet, poor unfortunate, he cannot
-leave the house without taking from the hand of the fair lady of the
-house a glass of wine, and that offer he was expected to accept perhaps
-at twenty or thirty houses. A year or two later it was considered bon
-ton to offer nothing in the parlor, but an obsequious waiter tendered
-ale, wines and other delicacies, catching the departing visitor in a
-parlor near the hall door. This was something better. A gentleman
-could refuse a waiter's demand--not so easily a lady's. Still later,
-about fifteen years ago, I well remember the Rev. Mr. Hbert, of
-Kamouraska, asking as a personal favor and a mark of respect to himself
-that none of his parishioners should offer temptation to the weak in the
-form of stimulant to New Year's visitors, and he very lucidly expressed
-himself in these terms: "You say some of you are advised by your
-physician to take wine, well, that is all right, and put your liquor
-beside your pills, and as you do not think it necessary to give physic
-to all your friends because the doctor orders it for you, neither do I
-think the tonic that may do you good necessary to sow broadcast to those
-to whom it may prove a bitter poison." This was particularly hard on a
-character in the village we had dubbed Monseigneur because he served a
-former Bishop, and being wealthy he piqued himself on bringing something
-new for New Year, and his last purchase had been a valuable liquor
-stand. He was heart-broken. Being a very pious man he was deeply
-chagrined to think he could not display his new purchase, till he was
-once more elevated to the summit of happiness by the suggestion that
-raspberry vinegar, lime juice and lemon syrup would look equally well in
-his fine caraffe.
-
-
-
-
- *A POINT OF HONOR.*
-
-
-It must be fifty-two years ago fully when I first remember the house now
-occupied by Mr. O'Hare as a first-class private boarding house. Its rear
-faces the Citadel, its front looks into the barrack yard of the former
-barracks on St. Louis street, now occupied by Major Forrest, Well, this
-house was then occupied, and I think owned, by a very dear uncle, the
-late Charles Adolphus H. I say, I think owned, because I perfectly
-remember the rocks in rear being blasted to make a stable and the
-building of an extension with vaulting apparatus and so forth for the
-young people's recreation, and this extension adjoined the nursery where
-presided a female nurse of wonderful imaginative powers, who, when the
-twilight gathered, and we begged for stories, detailed for our benefit
-horror after horror--her only idea of entertainment for young children.
-Well, in the garret of this old house my dear grand-uncle found a large
-ledger, very strongly bound. On the outer pages were these words: "I
-implore whoever finds this volume to keep it until the year ----, when,
-if not reclaimed, then burn it unless he would incur the curse of a dead
-man, for by that time all interested and for whom this book is kept must
-be dead." The leaves were crossed with red tape, and every here and
-there sealed with red sealing wax, but by breaking off a bit of wax we
-could read a few words, and though I do not remember why, we seemed to
-associate their meaning with some record of the North-West. Devoured by
-curiosity, we young people, too afraid of the curse to openly destroy
-the seals, devised every plan to ascertain the contents, and one of them
-was to give the book to the younger children of the family as a
-play-thing, hoping they would break them open and the contents be
-exposed; but alas! one day my dear grand-uncle came upon the scene,
-fathomed our project, and put a stop for all time to our endeavors by
-putting said ledger in the stove, and watched it while it burnt. Was
-this absolutely necessary? Did the most rigid scrupulousness demand
-this? I don't know how others will answer. For myself, if I had the
-book before me now I would read its contents, and then judge whether I
-should divulge its secrets or not in the interest of the public. What a
-field of conjecture is open here! This book contained records of the
-North-West. Of what? Do you remember, my friends, an article that
-appeared in the papers very many years ago, saying that a voyageur had
-discovered somewhere in the far north an old white-haired gentleman, the
-Rev. Ebenezer Williams, who claimed to be the son of the unfortunate
-Dauphin, son of the decapitated Louis XVI., and whose devoted followers
-had rescued from prison and substituted a pauper, and at great personal
-risk brought the unfortunate boy to America and placed him for safe
-keeping with an Indian tribe, and leaving documents to prove his
-identity should there ever appear a chance of his claiming the throne.
-But as years rolled on, and no prospect of his being recalled to the
-throne, and his protectors being dead, he had been educated as a
-clergyman and served as missionary till his death. In fact, it was only
-when on his deathbed these facts were discovered. Had this book--a very
-closely written volume--anything to do with him? God only knows!
-
-
-
-
- *COUNTRY POST OFFICES FORTY AND
- FIFTY YEARS AGO.*
-
-
-Our ancestors must have been very honest in rural parts, and had
-unlimited faith in each other's integrity, judging by the early post
-offices. The first one I remember was that of Murray Bay, when on the
-arrival of the bag its contents were dumped on the floor and every one
-picked out the letters for themselves and friends, and enacted the part
-of voluntary carriers for their friends, and very curious were the
-articles then transmitted through the post office, the mail bags then
-doing the present express service. A relative told me that he was
-somewhere in the Gasp district when the carrier arrived with the bags
-he had carried a long distance on his back, and using rather hard
-language at the unwonted weight of the bag, and curious to see what was
-the cause of this extraordinary weighty mail, when lo! out tumbled two
-immense wild geese, sent as a present by the Hon. W. H. to a friend.
-Fancy the dnouement and the wrath of the old Scotchman, who had borne
-the weight on a long tramp through a pathway in the forest.
-
-One of the most curious experiences I ever had occurred about ten years
-ago, when I went with my family to a rural summer resort. We were
-several miles from the post office, and had very steep hills to climb on
-every side, so I wished to kill two birds with one stone, and decided to
-go to the post office after church service. I did so, and inquired for
-a registered letter I expected. After a few minutes inquiry the maitre
-de poste said: "Yes, there is a registered letter for you, but I can't
-find it, but it is all right, it is in the book." "Well," I said, as
-the assistant was absent and might possibly have said letter in charge,
-"I'll call back after afternoon service." I did so, but again the
-letter could not be found. "You'll probably be passing in a week or so,
-won't you call in then, by that time I have no doubt we'll have it for
-you." "But," I said, "that won't do. I am a stranger here and need the
-money." "Ah! madame" (they were French Canadians), "we are very sorry
-to inconvenience you, and if you will say how much you need will be
-happy to advance you the cash, as by our books you are entitled to
-some." I could not feel angry with these simple people, they were
-evidently so honest and true. Yet, as I wanted my letter, with home
-news, as well as the cash, I proposed that we should make a search in
-the post office, which was also a shop of general merchandise. So,
-after looking through box after box, some suggested looking in the
-cellar, as an ill-fitting trap door with wide cracks was directly under
-the official desk. The cellar, however, did not contain the missing
-document, and I was almost in despair of recovering for some time my
-lost property, when a happy inspiration came to me, and I inquired if
-they sold envelopes. "Ah! oui, madame," they did, and among the
-envelopes ready to be sold at about a cent a piece was my letter
-containing fifty dollars cash, which, minus my persistence, might have
-found its way into the pocket of some honest or dishonest purchaser. But
-all is well that ends well, and I parted from my post office friends
-with expressions of mutual regard, and fearing to do them harm,
-believing so fully in their integrity, I never spoke of the matter; but
-when, some years later, I heard the Post Office Inspector had made
-radical changes, I thought it was beneficial to the general public.
-
-
-
-
- *THE SUBTERRANEAN PASSAGES OF
- THE CITADEL, QUEBEC.*
-
-
-In the year ----, the late lamented Lieut. Fayrer, ordinance officer,
-came to Quebec on a tour of inspection as to supplies needed
-(accompanied by his wife, Lizzie Henshawe, a cousin). He asked us if we
-would like to accompany him through the underground passages of the
-Citadel, very rarely open to visitors. We gratefully accepted the
-offer, and so well guarded was the secrecy of these premises, it was
-with the utmost astonishment the soldiers present heard that underneath
-their Citadel were miles of underground passages for transfer in case of
-siege, large rooms for the refuge of women and children, and places for
-the safe depositing of treasure. We accompanied him, and I remember
-going down stairs intersected with heavy iron doors and through long
-passages with only outlets for muskets to give light, then into large
-damp underground chambers for a safe.
-
-I cannot tell the length we went through of dark passage, but it was
-some considerable distance, and the rooms are quite large, I suppose
-capable of each holding fifty people. I have heard it said (but can't
-vouch for the truth), that these passages have an outlet on the St.
-Lawrence at one end, and the Martello towers at the other. I have no
-doubt such is the case. The underground passages are bombproof, and no
-sound can be heard from them. A soldier forgotten there once gave
-himself up to die, until he remembered he might be missed at roll call.
-Such was the case, and his life thus saved. The passages are underneath
-the Citadel at Cape Diamond, so called because at one time great
-quantities of an inferior diamond were found there. I remember when the
-Cape quite shone with them, and many old people have handsome jewellery
-made from these gems. There is one street of houses opposite the Cape
-about fifty-five years ago occupied by the following parties: the late
-Chas. Gethings, the late Col. Dyde, John Carleton Fisher, William Patton
-and Col. Gore, father of the present Countess of Errol. A small house
-on the off side, occupied by a waiter, is the spot where is the present
-High School of Quebec.
-
-
-
-
- *THE FIRST ST. PATRICK'S SOCIETY
- IN QUEBEC.*
-
-
-Ireland, so prominent at the present time, especially appeals to
-favorable remembrance of all her true people, and it may prove
-interesting to many of my readers to hear something of the first St.
-Patrick's Society ever formed in Quebec. I therefore copy for public
-benefit the very interesting account of its first doings, given me by an
-old friend:--
-
-"In the year 1836 a few Irish gentlemen met in a small house in the
-Upper Town market place to form a St. Patrick's Society without
-reference to church or creed, but merely for the purpose of rendering
-assistance to any of their countrymen who might be requiring help or
-advice. Those gentlemen present on that occasion were as follows:--
-
-The Hon. Dominick Daly, then Secretary of the Province.
-
-The Hon. George Pemberton, merchant.
-
-The Hon. Mr. Cochrane, brother-in-law to Bishop Mountain.
-
-Sir Henry Caldwell, Baronet.
-
-Geo. Holmes Parke, Esq., merchant.
-
-Charles Gethings, Esq., of the Bank, Quebec.
-
-Edward Bowen, Esq., son of Judge Bowen.
-
-Edward Ryan, Esq., merchant, and Mr. O'Meara, Custom House.
-
-"These gentlemen formed the St. Patrick's Society, and the subscription
-was to be five shillings each, annually. They also decided to have an
-annual dinner every anniversary. The first president was the Hon. D.
-Daly, and their first dinner was in a building where now stands the
-Russell House. The subscription to the dinner was to be six dollars, to
-make the meeting as select as possible, and to be paid out of the
-subscribers' own pockets without reference to the annual subscription.
-The next president was the Hon. George Pemberton, and that dinner took
-place in the Albion Hotel in Palace street. The third president was Sir
-H. Caldwell; they dined in the same building, the Albion. The fourth
-president was George Holmes Parke, Esq., who was annually elected
-president for the succeeding fourteen years in succession, and the
-dinners took place principally in the old chateau. To the anniversary
-dinners the presidents of St. George, St. Andrew and St. John the
-Baptist were invited as guests, as was also the heads of all military
-and civil departments. On one occasion in the old chateau, when over
-two hundred and fifty guests sat down to dinner, it looked well to see
-Geo. Holmes Parke, Esq., with the president of St. George on one arm,
-and the presidents of St. Andrew and St. John the Baptist on the other,
-walking up the long room to the head of the dinner table. There were a
-large number of subscribers to the Society, and the consequence was,
-although the subscription was small, it was enabled to do a multitude of
-good. The Society for many years got on admirably until other branches
-were formed, and then Mr. Parke did not take the same interest as he had
-formerly done. Notwithstanding, there never was an anniversary dinner
-given afterwards but Mr. Parke was invited to it as a guest, and given
-one of the most prominent seats at the table. Charles Gethings, Esq., I
-believe, followed Mr. Parke as president, and after him others whose
-names I have not ascertained. Of all the gentlemen that met to form the
-Society, Mr. Parke is the only one living. In 1840 Mr. Parke bought a
-large tract of land on the River St. Charles, a short distance from the
-Dorchester Toll Bridge, on which he had built a splendid mansion, and
-ornamented it with thousands of forest trees and circular avenues, iron
-entrance gates, stone pillars, etc., also beautiful quickset hedges on
-each side of the avenues kept neatly trimmed. In this house, which he
-called "Ringfield," he has lived for the last fifty years, and is still
-living in it. There is a splendid view from Ringfield. From St. Foy's
-church to St. Peter street in Lower Town can be seen almost every house
-in Upper Town, St. Roch and St. Sauveur. Down the River St. Lawrence can
-be seen nine miles, and from the hall door, before the trees grew up,
-could be counted fourteen parish churches, apart from the city or
-suburbs. Mr. Parke came to Canada in 1830, and is now in his
-eighty-fourth year. During his business career he did a large business,
-and in the course of twenty-five years he had built for himself
-seventy-six large ships by different ship builders, which cost and was
-paid for out of his office over three million of dollars, apart from his
-other business." This gentlemen is father of the present popular
-physician, Dr. Parke. Mr. Lemoine in his "Tourist's Note Book" says: "A
-very remarkable vestige of French domination exists behind the villa of
-Mr. Parke, a circular field house, hence the name Ringfield, covering
-about twelve acres, with an earthwork once about twenty feet high to the
-east, to shield its inmates from the shot of Wolfe's fleet lying at the
-entrance of the St. Charles below Quebec."
-
-
-
-
- *SILLERY CHURCH--THE PARSONAGE,
- ONE TIME A RESIDENCE OF
- SIR E. R. CARON.*
-
-
-Sillery Church, beautifully situated above Sillery Cove (one of the
-best-known lumber coves near Quebec), has for its parishioners many
-families of note, foremost amongst whom were the Sharples family, well
-known for their Catholic piety and their active benevolence.
-
-At the time I first knew Sillery Church, its pastor was the Rev. George
-Drolet, a very fervent, energetic priest, who I fear lost his health in
-part from over zeal in the discharge of his arduous duties. His people
-being mixed English and French, I have known him go through the ritual
-of two masses, preach two sermons one in French and one in English
-(fasting) though frequently warned against such over-exertion.
-
-He was stricken with paralysis some years ago, and though comparatively
-a young man, is quite debarred now from all church services.
-
-He exercised considerable influence amongst his parishioners, many of
-them being very difficult to deal with--a floating population of
-sailors; but his genial manner and tact carried him through many
-difficulties. I cannot give a better illustration of that same tact
-than by narrating a fact that occurred full thirty years ago. At the
-time of the great _Corrigan Murder_ (as it was called)--the outcome of a
-fight between Orangemen and R. C. Irishmen--the feud ran so high, the
-Bishop of Quebec, seeing how impossible it would be for an Irish priest
-to abstain from being drawn into the vortex of party strife, decided on
-sending a French-Canadian priest, who would have no national feeling in
-the matter. The matter was discussed, but it was supposed to be such a
-post of danger, even for a priest, the Bishop decided he would ask for a
-volunteer instead of issuing a command to one of his clergy. All eyes
-turned to the Rev. Mr. Drolet as _the one_ suited; he had been junior
-priest in St. Patrick's Church in Quebec, was thoroughly acquainted with
-the character of the Irish people, and much beloved by them. He offered
-his services, which were at once accepted; but some of his confrres
-felt badly over the matter and remonstrated: "You must remember, my dear
-sir, that you have a mother and sisters dependent on you for a home, and
-you hold your life in your hand, if you go to ---- in the present state
-of feeling, as the Irish say they will not have a French-Canadian
-priest." "I am not afraid," was the Rev. Mr. D.'s rejoinder; he went,
-to find the Presbytery closed, the Parish Church nailed up, and a very
-threatening crowd assembled. He could do nothing that day, so went to a
-neighboring parish to say his morning mass. The next day the same
-scene. Undaunted he began to talk, said he always thought an Irishman
-liked fair play, and thought he might ask for a few minutes hearing--he,
-one man against hundreds. "Oh! yes," they said, ashamed. "We'll let you
-talk, but remember we don't want to insult your reverence, but we won't
-have a French-Canadian over us." "Well, answer me one question, I like
-to know to whom I am talking: what is your name, and in what part of
-Ireland were you born?" "Oh, sir, I was not born in Ireland, but my
-grandfather and grandmother came from the Old country." "And you? and
-you?" The same answer, not one perhaps in forty were born in Ireland,
-all really by birth Canadians, and Mr. D. said, "You say you won't have
-me because I am a French-Canadian, my name is so, but, as my grandmother
-was Irish, I consider myself as Irish as any of you." His wit carried
-the day. He resided there for many years, and was so well liked that
-between thirty and forty of his parishioners accompanied him to do him
-honor, when he was given the pastorate of St. Michel, and I shall never
-forget the sight of a crowded steamboat, half of the people in tears as
-they went to see him off, and land him at Sillery, to which he had been
-promoted--the most desirable rectorship, I fancy, in the R. C. gift,
-near Quebec; but which he was to enjoy only a few years.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. MATTHEW'S CHAPEL.*
-
-
-A beautiful little church on the site of the old burying ground, on St.
-John street, Quebec, built by that well-known philanthropist, Matthew
-Hale, Esq., and very much enlarged and beautified by the various members
-of the Hamilton family with their well-known liberality.
-
-
-
-
- *BISHOP HAMILTON.*
-
-
-About thirty years ago, there arrived fresh from college a
-newly-ordained clergyman of the Church of England. So youthful looking,
-so mild in character, it appeared at first as if he would hardly yet be
-fitted for the onerous position of pastor, but he was appointed. Family
-influence and money soon caused St. Matthew's to be most largely
-patronized, also free seats. In the meantime our young clergyman
-pursued his unobtrusive way. Daily he might be seen in the poorest and
-least frequented streets of the city, driving a little waggonette,
-evidently constructed to order from its capacity for holding comforts
-for his poor people. A thoroughly earnest, fervently pious man, our
-young clergyman, before many years, displayed his innate force of
-character, acquired great influence, and we know him now as Charles
-Hamilton, Bishop of Ontario.
-
-
-
-
- *ST. PATRICK'S CEMETERY, QUEBEC.*
-
-
- Formerly Woodfield, the residence of the late
- James Gibb, Esq., previously the residence of
- Chas. Sheppard, Esq.
-
-
-As I tread the sod of this cemetery what a host of memories are evoked.
-Here was the handsome residence of Chas. Sheppard, formerly large timber
-merchant of Quebec, one of whose sons, Mansfield Sheppard, Esq., and his
-daughter, Mrs. Watt, I think still survive! This pleasant home was
-burnt down, the family having hardly time to escape, and many cherished
-and valuable mementoes of the past perished with it. It was purchased
-by James Gibb, Esq., as a homestead, and so occupied for many years; and
-who in the flush of enjoyment at the many pleasant entertainments given
-by the Gibb family would have foreseen the day when many of those
-dancing and promenading through those beautiful grounds would be
-treading over perhaps the very spot may be their own resting place in
-the quiet grave. Such is life. This cemetery, now of great beauty from
-its natural characteristics, is about two miles from Quebec.
-
-
-
-
- *MOUNT HERMON CEMETERY,*
-
-
-About three miles from the city of Quebec, is most beautifully situated
-on the St. Louis road its grounds at the back overlooking the St.
-Lawrence.
-
-Amongst other noted monuments here is the slab that indicates the last
-resting place of the young son of Sir Edmund Head, who was accidentally
-drowned in the St. Lawrence river, and buried here in Mr. Price's lot.
-The Price family had long occupied a high position in Quebec society,
-and been intimate with the families of several of the governors. I see
-they had the honor of a visit from the Prince on his late trip to
-Quebec, who lunched with them.
-
-I will attempt no further description of old Quebec, Mr. Le Moine has
-too thoroughly exhausted the subject, but confine myself to a
-description of people and incidents illustrative of the to me good old
-times. Perhaps the beauty of the prospective is enhanced by the
-distance, but to those who have passed the meridian of life the past
-must ever be dearer than the present, for it alone is peopled with so
-many of the loved we look for in vain now. So many of my once dear
-associates have gone on before me, I often ponder on what must be the
-feelings of one living to a hundred years, who stands totally alone
-without one he has known in his earlier days to greet him.
-
-
-
-
- *IN MEMORIAM.*
-
-
- To my darling husband on the anniversary of
- his death--September the 14th, 1889.
-
-
- A year has come and gone since, by God's Holy will
- You left me, husband darling, and I still
- Sorrow as in the earlier days, and grieve
- As only those do who also are bereaved
- Of one so fondly loved, whose life for years so
- closely 'twined together
- It seemed that death itself could never sever
- The bonds, so firmly bound, in sickness or in health
- Times of disaster, poverty or wealth,
- The love which warmer grew with length of year.
- It seems not possible you're gone, I here;
- Be still my heart, 'tis only for a time.
- God's will be done, and humbly mine
- Must bow to His who doeth all things well.
- Perchance you hear me, darling; who can tell
- What line divides us? Thought may meet thought
- On the high shore you stand,
- And waft a loving greeting to the spirit land.
- So I'll not grieve you with my helpless sorrow.
- But happily look toward that glad to-morrow
- Will surely reunite us on that Heavenly shore.
- The time will come, we'll meet and part no more.
-
-
-
-
- *NOVEMBER.*
-
-
- When you speak of drear November,
- Of its days of rain and gloom,
- You should also ere remember
- It's the advent very soon
- Of the bright month of December,
- With its Christmas joys and cheer.
- That its family rejoicings,
- And its greetings of New Year,
- Eclipse all previous darkness,
- As the dark before the dawn;
- Ignoring all the dangers,
- That yet before us yawn.
- For happily so the future
- Is hidden from our gaze,
- We only blindly, step by step,
- Tread the ever-tangled maze
- That encircles all our future,
- And no one can design
- The pathway to be trodden
- By either yours or mine.
- So implicitly we'll leave
- Our Heavenly Guide to say
- The road that we will travel
- And journey day by day,
- Assured He will truly guide us,
- If we will only follow,
- And land us safely on the shore,
- When some assured to-morrow
- Will join the past, and safe return
- All those for whom we sorrow.
-
-
-
-
- *TO THE OYSTER.*
-
-
- How I love you! toothsome oyster.
- Because at hunger's call
- You are at all times ready
- To fill our empty maw.
-
- But still more do I love you
- For the odor that you waft
- Of seaside and sea-air you bring
- With memories of the past.
-
- The past whene'er your advent,
- In autumn's wintry weather,
- Was grandly hailed on every side,
- And brought all friends together.
-
- When seated at a well-spread board,
- Full quite a score and more
- Of neighbors met to eat the food
- All must pronounce so very good.
-
- So whether hot, or whether cold,
- In stew, or soup, or pie,
- We sing your praise, for very few
- Your excellence can deny.
-
-
-
-
- *LIST OF NEW SUBSCRIBERS.*
-
-
- QUEBEC.
-
-Lady Stuart.
-Comte de Turenne.
-H. H. Sewell.
-Mrs. W. Rae.
-A. F. Hunt.
-James Fatton.
-J. Hamilton.
-J. V. Welch.
-H. G. Beemer.
-E. J. Price.
-Hon. Mr. Price.
-P. P. Hall.
-W. A. Russell, 2 copies.
-C. S. Parke, M.D.
-H. M. Michaels, Bk. B. N. A.
-Arch. Campbell.
-J. H. Burroughs.
-Louis G. Fiset.
-Hon. Judge F. Andrews.
-E. N. Chinic.
-George Vanfelsen.
-Henry Russell, M.D.
-Robert Mitchell.
-E. A. Panet, N. P., St. Raymond.
-Mrs. Astell Drayner.
-
-
- MONTREAL.
-
-Sir William Dawson.
-P. B. Casgrain.
-Somerville Weir.
-W. Grant Stuart, M.D.
-A. Primeau.
-Mrs. R. M. Harrison.
-Mrs. Trotter.
-John Fair.
-E. Pipon, Bk. of Montreal
-W. Weir.
-Alfred Thibaudeau.
-J. Cradock Simpson.
-Strachan Bethune.
-Benj. Hart.
-L. W. Marchand.
-P. H. M. Sommerville, Bk. B. N. A.
-W. Godfrey, Bk. B. N. A.
-Madame DesRivires, Malmaison.
-D. McCord.
-A. Sicotte.
-David Denne.
-W. G. LeMesurier.
-H. A. Hutchins.
-E. B. Greenshields.
-Judge Baby.
-B. D. McConnell.
-Norman S. Leslie.
-Chs. Alexander.
-Louis Barbeau,
-Hon. G. H. Drummond.
-Samuel I. Grant.
-Judge Dorion.
-Judge Bosse.
-
-
- OTTAWA.
-
-John D. Arnoldi.
-Parliamentary Library, 2 copies.
-Norman Bethune.
-N. H. Noel, Quebec Bank.
-S. Wilmot, Senate.
-S. Lelivre.
-Judge Fournier.
-Sir A. Caron.
-Lt. Col. Macpherson.
-Col. Tanet.
-E. Knight, Militia Dept.
-C.H. O'Meara.
-M. Harrison.
-W. Himsworth, Inland Revenue.
-Geo. Duval, High Court of Justice.
-S. Boucher.
-Robt. Cassels.
-W. P. Anderson, Union Bk.
-Jas. Adamson, Senate.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OLD MEMORIES: AMUSING AND
-HISTORICAL ***
-
-
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-.. meta::
- :PG.Id: 53403
- :PG.Title: Old Memories: Amusing and Historical
- :PG.Released: 2016-10-29
- :PG.Rights: Public Domain
- :PG.Producer: Al Haines
- :DC.Creator: Mrs. Daniel Macpherson
- :DC.Title: Old Memories: Amusing and Historical
- :DC.Language: en
- :DC.Created: 1890
- :coverpage: images/img-cover.jpg
-
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-OLD MEMORIES: AMUSING AND HISTORICAL
-====================================
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- OLD MEMORIES:
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- AMUSING AND HISTORICAL
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- *A SEQUEL TO*
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- "REMINISCENCES OF OLD QUEBEC."
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- BY
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- MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON,
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- AN OLD QUEBECER.
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- MONTREAL:
- PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR.
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- Entered according to Act of Parliament of Canada, in the
- year one thousand eight hundred and ninety, by
- MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON, in the office of the Minister of
- Agriculture and Statistics at Ottawa.
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- DEDICATION.
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- TO
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- JAMES MACPHERSON LEMOINE, ESQ.,
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- AUTHOR OF
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- QUEBEC PAST AND PRESENT, MAPLE LEAVES, ETC.,
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- MY DEAR HUSBAND'S COUSIN AND TRIED FRIEND,
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- I DEDICATE THIS VOLUME AS A SLIGHT MARK OF ESTEEM.
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- CHARLOTTE HOLT GETHINGS MACPHERSON.
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- CONTENTS.
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-
-`To my Subscribers and the Public`_
-`Sequel to Old Congregational Convent`_
-`St. Louis Hotel`_
-`The Quebec Bank`_
-`Horse Boats and Ice Boats`_
-`Beaumont, St. Thomas`_
-`St. Michel`_
-`A Chronicle of St. Michel`_
-`Second Visit to Roberval, Lake St. John`_
-`St. Leon Springs`_
-`My Second Visit to St. Leon Springs`_
-`St. Raymond`_
-`St. Augustin`_
-`St. André`_
-`Les Eboulements`_
-`Society in Quebec Fifty Years Ago`_
-`Spencer Grange`_
-`Society in 1854`_
-`New Year's Day, 1840`_
-`A Point of Honor`_
-`Country Post Offices Forty and Fifty Years Ago`_
-`The Subterranean Passages of the Citadel of Quebec`_
-`The First St. Patrick's Society in Quebec`_
-`Sillery Church`_
-`St. Matthew's Chapel`_
-`Bishop Hamilton`_
-`St. Patrick's Cemetery`_
-`Mount Hermon Cemetery`_
-`In Memoriam`_
-`November`_
-`To the Oyster`_
-
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-.. _`TO MY SUBSCRIBERS AND THE PUBLIC`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- TO MY SUBSCRIBERS AND THE PUBLIC.
-
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-MY FRIENDS,
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-
-You have been so good to me, in purchasing,
-within a few weeks, five hundred copies of a
-feuilleton, only intended for private circulation,
-I should like to show my appreciation, by
-catering to your desire for information regarding our
-dear old city, Quebec; but what can I do?
-My learned friend, James Macpherson LeMoine,
-Esq., with his wonderful knowledge of facts,
-so exhausted the subject in his excellent
-and beautifully got up book, "Picturesque
-Quebec," I am utterly overwhelmed.
-Until I began to study the matter I was quite
-ignorant that he had written so fully on
-these matters, so I can only play Boswell to
-his Johnson, and as without Boswell many of
-the sayings of the immortal Johnson would
-have been lost, I too may have my use in
-recording crumbs of information, interesting
-and instructive, though lacking the dignity of
-history.
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-
-Yours truly,
-CHARLOTTE HOLT GETHINGS MACPHERSON
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- OLD MEMORIES:
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- AMUSING AND HISTORICAL.
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- SEQUEL TO "REMINISCENCES OF OLD QUEBEC,"
- BY MRS. DANIEL MACPHERSON.
-
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-
-My first recollection is that of being drawn in
-a child's carriage by old Germain, messenger of
-the Quebec Bank (where I was born), to the old
-convent, formerly occupying the site of McCall,
-Shehyn & Co.'s store at the foot of Mountain Hill
-in St. Peter Street, Quebec. This convent has
-been non-existant for forty-seven years. Its
-community now reside in St. Joseph Street,
-St. Roch's. When this convent was there, there
-was no St. Peter Street, there were no wharves,
-and an old sister told me the batteau men
-often struck their sails against their convent. I
-remember my father often called at the
-convent to take me out boating on the St. Lawrence
-River that lapped its shores, for the lower
-town of Quebec was then a delightful residence
-for Quebec people, only the military then
-residing in the Upper Town. Applying for information
-about this old convent to Ville Marie, the
-Mother House of this order, I received the
-following letter from one of the ladies:
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- CONGREGATION DE NOTRE DAME,
-
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- Montreal, October 10, 1890.
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-Madam,
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-As I am obliged to absent myself, I have
-only time to give the year of the present
-foundation at Quebec. The first house was in the
-Upper Town, established in 1688 under the
-direction of the venerable Mother Bourgeois.
-This house was transferred to the Lower Town
-in 1692, under Mons. de St. Vallière, and in
-1844 the convent of the Lower Town not
-being any more convenient, the sisters went
-and fixed themselves in St. Roch's under
-Monseigneur Signai and the Rev. Curé Mr. Charest.
-Rev. Mère St. Madeleine was Superioress
-of the Congregation of Notre Dame.
-
-I am sorry not to be able to give you further
-details.
-
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-.. class:: noindent white-space-pre-line
-
- Your humble servant,
- Sr. St. Alexis de St. Joseph.
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`SEQUEL TO OLD CONGREGATIONAL CONVENT`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- SEQUEL TO OLD CONGREGATIONAL CONVENT.
-
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-FRIDAY, October 10, 1890.
-
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-
-I have just returned from a very pleasant
-visit (my first) to Villa Maria, the Maison Mère
-of the old Convent of the Congregation,
-forty-seven years ago at the foot of Mountain Hill,
-Quebec.
-
-Taking the St. Catherine street cars as far as
-the Post-Office, at the toll-gate you enter an
-omnibus (at certain hours) which takes you, for
-the moderate sum of five cents, to the gate
-leading into the grounds of Villa Maria, the
-first educational establishment of the
-Congregation de Nôtre Dame, formerly Moncklands.
-
-The approach on the Côte St. Antoine Road
-is beautiful, especially at this season, when the
-trees surrounding the various pretty homes to
-some of our Montreal gentry are just taking on
-their autumn tints. At one residence especially
-I noticed the leaves of every color, from varied
-green and red, pale pink, and deep crimson.
-One small house especially attracted my
-attention, that of Maxime St. Germain—a real
-old-fashioned humble country stone cottage, with
-the cross standing, a rendezvous in old time for
-prayer when churches were few and far between.
-
-It was told me that this Maxime St. Germain,
-from a humble habitant, by the rise of the value
-of his property, has risen to great wealth, though
-still living in his humble way, and with his wife
-and brother still occupy the old homestead.
-
-To make one understand the beauty of
-Moncklands, you must pay it a personal visit,
-and, in default of that, I cannot do better than
-copy a page of its prospectus. I can only say
-that I was utterly charmed even during my
-hurried visit.
-
-The view is so lovely from the front. The
-parlors so tastefully, even elegantly, furnished,
-with a fine library in one of them, every token
-of refinement, and the spirit of order prevails
-with a carefulness of detail which must conduce
-to the comfort of its inmates.
-
-"In this Institution for Young Ladies will be
-found all the advantages, comfort, etc., in
-harmony with its pre-eminence among the various
-houses of this Order.
-
-In point of situation, salubrity, and picturesque
-scenery, Villa Maria is unrivalled; the
-grounds are extensive, and comprise a delightful
-grove and a lovely little lake, with gondolas,
-for the healthful amusement of the pupils.
-
-The house, which was formerly the residence
-of the Governor-General of Canada, is fitted up
-in a style of comfort and in a degree of elegance
-not surpassed by any establishment of the kind.
-French being the language of the Institution,
-the pupils possess rare facilities for acquiring a
-thorough and practical knowledge of this
-language. French conversation is compulsory,
-and enters into the competition for the highest
-honors. The course in the English language is
-thorough and complete.
-
-The Governor-General of the Dominion of
-Canada has graciously given this institution a
-magnificent medal, to be awarded for general
-proficiency.
-
-Hon. Ed. Murphy, Montreal, a valuable
-microscope, to the young lady who excels in
-natural history.
-
-Mrs. Ed. Murphy, a magnificent gold medal,
-for excellence in the art of house-keeping.
-
-The Countess de Beaujeu, a rich gold medal,
-to the young lady who excels in French
-conversation.
-
-The Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of
-Quebec, a medal for universal history.
-
-The Rev. L. Collin, Sup. S. S. S., a gold
-medal for literature.
-
-The Rev. J. Marechal, a gold medal for
-religious instruction.
-
-The Hon. P. J. O. Chauveau, ex-minister of
-Education, a gold medal for composition.
-
-The Rev. Mother Sup. General, a gold medal
-for excellence in deportment.
-
-J. J. McElhone, Esq., of Washington, a gold
-medal for phonography and type-writing.
-
-J. M. McGirr, Esq., Ont., a gold medal for
-mathematics.
-
-Awarded by an artist, a gold lyre, for
-proficiency in music.
-
-
-
-
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-.. _`ST. LOUIS HOTEL`:
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- ST. LOUIS HOTEL.
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-
-I have just returned from Quebec, and must
-record one of the most pleasurable incidents of
-that visit, namely, my meeting accidentally an
-old acquaintance, the handsome Miss Bouchette,
-now Lady Shea, and her gifted husband, Sir
-Ambrose Shea. The pleasure of a prolonged
-interview with the latter, and I must say an hour's
-conversation with him, is an education. He has
-the happy gift of conveying so much information
-in such easy flowing language, words seem to
-come specially to express his meaning; you learn
-so much while apparently only chatting. Truly
-may the Bahamas bless the day when he went
-there, and evolved from the noxious weed they
-complained of (Sisal Fibre) an industry which
-will be its grand prosperity. Already the
-importance of this great branch of commerce has
-been so great that he has, in view of Canadian
-interests, come on a visit to Ottawa, to effect, if
-possible, a divergence of the trade to Canada
-instead of permitting our American Cousins to
-reap all the profits. He showed me a plait of
-fibre about two feet long or more, so delicate
-yet so strong. There is no doubt it will produce
-a rival to the famous manilla rope, and so
-facile of handling, it may yet be used for
-the manufacture of linen and other articles, for
-it needs very little preparation for use, and that
-of the simplest kind.
-
-This wonderful plant suddenly sprung into
-prominent notice. It is a weed particularly
-fertile in the Bahamas. It grows
-about two feet high, and the fibre is the
-length of the plant, and when extracted
-by the simple process of pressing out,
-and then wet and dried in the sun, looks
-exactly like horse hair, and so strong one could
-not break even four threads twined together.
-This Sisal Fibre is creating such a sensation
-now. I need say nothing further on the
-subject, only wish Sir Ambrose and his wife
-a pleasant trip, and thank Mr. Russell for
-the particular courtesy I received from him.
-But when will you fail to receive attention at
-the St. Louis! From mine host down to the
-humblest bell boy, all are so watchful for
-your comfort, so civil in their demeanor, it is a
-pleasure to put up there.
-
-
-
-
-
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-.. _`THE QUEBEC BANK`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- THE QUEBEC BANK, QUEBEC.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-On a recent visit to Quebec I was shown by
-the present courteous and able manager, James
-Stevenson, Esq., a notice he had written in the
-*Shareholder*, February 22, 1884, and there is so
-much of interest in it for the public, I transmit
-the valuable information it contains to you, my
-friends. Mr. Stevenson had directed my attention
-to this article, as he had therein so kindly
-noticed my dear father, the late Charles
-Gethings:—
-
-The Quebec Bank, with the exception of the
-Bank of Montreal, is the oldest bank in the
-Dominion. On the 9th July, 1818, merchants,
-and others interested in the establishment of a
-bank in the city of Quebec, held a meeting at
-the Exchange, and drafted articles of association.
-The document is headed, "Articles of
-Association of the Quebec Bank," and consists
-of twenty-five sections. No. 3 provides that,
-for the good management of the bank, there
-shall be thirteen directors; No. 6, that there
-shall be no recourse upon the separate property
-of any shareholder. Other sections severally
-provide for the issue of notes; the calling-up of
-the capital, which is to be £75,000; the term of
-the bank's existence; and its dissolution. The
-bank is now in its sixty-seventh year.
-Distinguished men, legislators, lawyers and
-merchants have served on the directorate. During
-the term of its existence it has been exposed to
-severe financial storms; it has weathered them
-all, preserved its capital intact, and has paid
-several millions in the shape of dividends.
-
-At the first meeting of the shareholders, which
-was held on the 7th September, 1818, the
-following gentlemen were elected to serve on the
-board of directors, namely, John W. Woolsey,
-Thomas White, J. McCallum, John Jones,
-Charles Smith, Louis Massue, Jean Langevin,
-Henry Black, Ph. Aubert de Gaspé,
-W. G. Sheppard, John Goudie, Etienne Lagreux,
-and Benjamin Tremain. Mr. Woolsey was
-elected president, and Mr. White, vice-president;
-and the Board engaged the services of
-Noah Freer, as cashier. Mr. Freer held a
-commission as captain in the army; he had seen
-service, and had been military secretary to Sir
-George Prevost, during the war of 1812.
-Steady-going merchants may have shrugged
-their shoulders and questioned the wisdom and
-propriety of appointing a soldier to such a
-position; but Captain Freer took kindly to the
-business of civil life. He was accurate, precise,
-and methodical in all he did; and a courteous
-gentleman in his intercourse with the public.
-The customers of the bank were men of high
-standing—including the leading officials of the
-capital, namely, the Governor-General, the
-Bishop, the Commander-in-Chief, legislators and
-lawyers, in addition to the regular commercial
-clientele. Holograph cheques of all its principal
-customers since 1818 have been carefully
-preserved in the bank, a review of which is almost
-as interesting as a cursory perusal of the annals
-of the city.
-
-That able jurist, the late Honorable Andrew
-Stuart, was appointed legal adviser; and he
-appears on several occasions to have steadied
-the directors, and guided them into a course of
-safety.
-
-In the absence of an "Act of Incorporation,"
-the shareholders no doubt incurred unlimited
-liability to the depositors and share-holders; but
-application was made to Parliament for a charter,
-and an "Act of Incorporation," extending the
-existence of the bank to 1831, was passed in
-1819. This Act received the Royal assent of
-George IV. on the 16th September, 1822. At
-the expiration of the term, the charter was
-renewed, and extended to the 1st August, 1836;
-and, by a subsequent Act, to the same date in
-1837. That year constitutional government
-was suspended in consequence of the disturbed
-state of the Province; and all the powers and
-privileges of the bank expired by the effluxion
-of the time limited by the Act of Incorporation.
-The directors were at a loss what course to
-pursue under the circumstances. They thought
-seriously of winding up the bank. In 1838 the
-government of the country was vested in Sir
-John Colborne, as Administrator, and a special
-council held in the city of Montreal. The same
-year, the Habeas Corpus Act was suspended,
-and an ordinance was passed authorizing the
-incorporated, chartered, and other banks in the
-Province to suspend the redemption of their
-notes in specie till the 1st of June, 1839—limiting
-the circulation of each bank to the amount
-of its capital stock actually paid up. It was
-further enacted that all specie then held by the
-bank should be retained, and should not be
-sold, excepting to Her Majesty's Government.
-
-Political disturbances having been quelled,
-trade revived, and all thought of winding up
-the bank was abandoned. To supply the
-absence of silver, the bank, in addition to its
-ordinary issue, issued notes of 15d., or 30 sous,
-and 2s. 6d., or 3 francs; and the several banks
-struck off a copper currency for the convenience
-of the public. The suspension of specie
-payments lasted three years.
-
-In the absence of Parliamentary authority
-for the existence of the bank, the directors we
-readvised to apply for a royal charter, and Captain
-Freer, the cashier, was deputed to proceed to
-England, for the purpose of communicating
-with the Home Government on the subject.
-Captain Freer was well received by the authorities,
-and every assistance was rendered to him
-in furtherance of the object of his mission. A
-royal charter was granted with authority to
-apply to Parliament for a renewal as soon as
-constitutional government should be restored;
-at the same time the authorized capital of the
-bank was increased to £100,000.
-
-Several changes had taken place in the personnel
-at the Direction since 1818. In 1823,
-Mr. W. Sheppard was elected president; in 1832,
-Mr. Charles Smith; in 1838, Mr. John Fraser;
-and in 1842, Mr. James Gibb. In 1852 Captain
-Freer retired from the service of the bank upon
-a pension, having held office for thirty-four
-years. In 1848 Sir N. F. Belleau was elected
-a director. He has since been a constant
-member of the Board, and punctual in his attendance,
-even while he held the office of Lieutenant-Governor
-of the Province of Quebec. On the
-death of the Honorable Andrew Stuart, the
-Honorable Henry Black was appointed legal
-adviser; and on his assuming the duties of
-Judge of the Vice-Admiralty Court, he was
-succeeded by the Honorable George O. Stuart,
-the present Judge of the same Court. J. C. Vannovous,
-Q.C., held the office till his death,
-and was succeeded by the present legal
-advisers of the bank, Messrs. Andrews, Caron &
-Andrews.
-
-Mr. Charles Gethings, a man of inflexible
-integrity of character, was appointed to fill the
-office of cashier, vacated by the retirement of
-Captain Freer, and under his management, and
-the careful supervision of the president,
-Mr. Gibb, who was rarely absent from the office, the
-bank continued to pay its dividends, namely,
-in 1853 at the rate of 7 per cent. per annum:
-in 1854, 7 per cent.; 1855, 7 per cent.; 1856,
-7 per cent.; 1857, 6½ per cent.; 1858, 6 per
-cent.; 1859, 6½ per cent.; 1860, 7½.
-
-In 1860 the president, one of the oldest and
-most esteemed merchants in the city, died,
-deeply regretted by the whole community, and
-Mr. W. H. Anderson, the vice-president, was
-elected president in his place. The following
-year Mr. Gethings, the cashier, retired upon a
-pension; and Mr. William Dunn, a gentleman
-well qualified to fill an important place in any
-bank, was appointed his successor. The bank,
-under his management, continued to pay
-dividends, namely, in 1861, 8 per cent; 1862, 8 per
-cent.; 1863, 7½ per cent.; 1864, 7 per cent.
-
-In 1864 Mr. David Douglas Young, a leading
-and highly esteemed merchant, who had served
-several years on the directorate, was elected
-president. Mr. Dunn, the cashier, retired soon
-after his appointment, and was succeeded by
-the present general manager, Mr. James Stevenson,
-in December, 1864.
-
-Since the death of Mr. Young, which happened
-in 1869, the Honorable James G. Ross
-has been president of the bank, and
-Mr. William Withall, vice-president.
-
-Such, in brief, is the history of this old
-institution, the doors of which were opened for
-business in 1818, in a small house in
-Sault-au-Matelot Street. Some years afterwards, a
-portion of a commodious building erected by
-the Quebec Fire Insurance Company, in Peter
-Street, was occupied by the bank. But in 1863
-the directors resolved to have a building of
-their own, and they purchased from Mr. H. Atkinson
-the site upon which the present handsome
-banking house is built. A certain historical
-interest attaches to almost every spot
-and locality in Quebec; and to none more so
-than to that very site. There, on a cold stormy
-December morning, in 1775, when the
-simultaneous assault on Quebec was made by
-Montgomery and Arnold, stood a small body of
-resolute men, ready to sacrifice their lives in
-defence of the city. While the life of
-Montgomery was ebbing away with the flow of his
-blood at Cape Diamond, Arnold was advancing,
-with a comparatively formidable force, from
-St. Roch's, upon Sault-au-Matelot, a little lane not
-over twelve feet wide, opposite the site of the
-bank. It is not too much to say that the fate
-of Canada, as a dependency of Great Britain,
-hung upon the issue of the impending contest
-in the lane. The struggle was a desperate one.
-
-It lasted several hours; but the repulse was
-complete; and Arnold, carried off wounded,
-retired with the remnant of his force upon the
-General Hospital, the head-quarters of the
-Americans, which they held till the siege of
-Quebec was abandoned in the following month
-of May, 1776.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`HORSE BOATS AND ICE BOATS`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- HORSE BOATS AND ICE BOATS.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-Near the site of the old convent just
-described, we used to embark on a horse boat to
-cross to Levis in summer, and in winter a canoe,
-managed by expert boatmen, who paddled
-their way through shoal ice, and, on reaching
-any large piece, with wonderful strength and
-skill raised the canoe and pulled it on the ice as
-we do a sleigh. These boatmen were so inured
-to their work that an accident rarely happened.
-But there are records of a whole canoe full of
-people being swamped. Fortunately a regular
-service of ice boats exists in winter now, and
-with rare intervals (some extraordinary storm)
-with as much regularity as the summer ferry
-boats.
-
-Some of my young readers may never have
-seen a horse boat, so I will tell them they
-looked like some of the very small steamboats,
-but the machinery was put in movement and
-carried on by horses attached to a pole in the
-centre and walking round and round.
-
-Previous to the year 1857 there were no
-other means of crossing to Levis but by the
-canoes, when Capt. Semple chartered a boat,
-which ran up to December, as it could only
-go through floating ice. But an enterprising
-gentleman, the recently deceased Mr. Tibbits,
-talking over the matter with a young relative
-of mechanical genius, made out plans for
-machinery, had them sent to Montreal, made
-here and sent on to Quebec, were fitted up
-and at once proved successful, and thus in
-the year 1862 started his passenger boat, "The
-Arctic," which would cut through the heaviest
-ice and became a perfect success. I copy from
-a newspaper the following notice of Mr. Tibbits,
-who died March 26, 1889:
-
-"On Friday last the mortal remains of the
-late James Tibbits were committed to their last
-resting place in Mount Hermon Cemetery.
-For many years the deceased was a prominent
-figure in the mercantile community. He was a
-man of great physical and mental energy, and
-of unbounded enterprise, always willing to risk
-in public enterprises the money with which
-many of his ventures were crowned. One
-lasting monument of his enterprise and ability
-remains to us in the excellent ferry service we
-enjoy with the South Shore. He was the first
-to demonstrate the possibility of a steamer
-cutting its way through the masses of ice which
-obstructed the navigation opposite the city
-during the winter. Like many others of our
-enterprising merchants, Mr. Tibbits died poor.
-Quebec owes his memory a debt of gratitude,
-which might well have been slightly repaid by a
-public funeral. It is, however, such a long time
-since Mr. Tibbits resided in the city, the
-generation that succeeded are hardly aware of the
-services rendered by the deceased. It is not
-fitting, however, that they should be lost sight of."
-
-The ferry boats, summer and winter, land you
-in close proximity to the railroad, and carriages
-take you west towards St. David or east to
-St. Joseph. After driving up a very steep hill you
-come to a road branching off to the west beside
-which is the little old English Church and
-Cemetery, the former being now renewed under the
-supervision of its popular pastor, Rev. Mr. Nicholls,
-grandson of the much-esteemed Bishop
-Mountain. Higher up and last is the Roman
-Catholic parish church, a monument to the zeal
-and perseverance of the late Rev. Mr. Dalzeil.
-Almost a riot was in the parish when he asked
-for it to be built of its present size, but with
-far-seeing wisdom he insisted, and now it is crowded
-to overflowing though two other churches have
-been built in the space of the last few years.
-Levis also possesses a fine college in this locality.
-On the summit of the hill called rue des
-Marchands is a very handsome and spacious store
-and residence belonging to Mr. Couture, and
-opposite to it is a tiny little building kept in good
-repair, though unused, which Mr. Couture tells
-you with pride is the shop where he first earned
-the shillings which were to end by making him a
-millionaire. Mr. Edouard Couture carries on the
-business in the same place now, but the
-Hon. Geo. Couture, Senator, sleeps under a handsome
-obelisk in Levis Cemetery. The noblest monument
-that exists to his memory, however, is the
-beautiful church, built by money left for that
-purpose in his will, adjoining the splendid
-hospital, built within about ten years, to which
-he contributed so largely during his lifetime.
-One of the head ladies of the institution (a
-very old friend, sister-in-law of our well-known
-citizen, Hon. P. Casgrain) took me through
-this building about a week ago, and I was
-astonished to find it almost filled already. The
-poor, the crippled, old women, young children,
-have here a comfortable home, with delightful
-surroundings, and on a height and with
-a view of the Citadel, Quebec.
-
-When Mère St. Monique asked me to go and
-visit the Catacombs under the church, I decidedly
-objected, but Josephte, as I called her in
-our youth, always would have her way, and I
-am glad she did so here, for I do not know
-whether similar places for burial are existent
-elsewhere in this country or only a new creation
-in Canada, but I am glad I went into them.
-This seems to be the perfection of burying.
-Leading me through a long light passage under
-the church, we came to a very heavy iron door;
-then on its being opened a second appeared
-with its blank emblems and death's head and
-cross bones, sufficiently indicative of where we
-were going. Entering this door Mère St. Monique
-struck a light, and we found ourselves in a
-fire-proof brick chamber and passages. On every
-side shelves to hold one coffin. There is only
-one occupant so far—Mr. Gingras—but there
-are places for ninety. The coffin is placed on
-a shelf just large enough, then masoned up,
-and the name put on the masonry. A great
-improvement on old-fashioned vaults, as all
-possibility of disturbance is precluded and no
-danger from foul air. This building is under
-the High Altar, so to a devout Roman Catholic
-much of the feeling of gloom is taken away. A few
-miles west is St. David's Church, a pretty new
-edifice, and further on at the village of
-St. Romuald, St. Romuald's Church, so filled with
-choice paintings and works of art by its late
-Pastor, the Rev. Mr. Saxe, it has become quite
-a worthy show place for our sight-seeing
-American friends. The Rev. Mr. Saxe was of
-such clever wit and genial presence, he
-exercised great influence over those with whom he
-came in contact. I remember saying how
-proud his parishioners must be of this lovely
-little edifice. "They well may be," he said, "it
-has hardly cost them anything for all these works
-of art. I made the old country, that could
-afford it, give them, you know. I travelled
-in Europe for contributions, and impressed on
-each community how necessary it was that each
-city should give of its best—something to
-redound to its own credit, and I got it," the old
-gentleman said with a merry twinkle in his
-eye. So much, my friends, for tact and a
-knowledge of human nature.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`BEAUMONT, ST. THOMAS`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- BEAUMONT—ST. THOMAS.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-Previous to the year 1853, or thereabouts, there
-was no railroad below Quebec, and vehicles were
-the only means of transport; but when time and
-means permit, it is surely the most agreeable of
-all ways of travelling. We were frequent visitors
-at Crane Island, and our downward drive to
-St. Thomas, where we took sail boat to cross, were
-in the habit of stopping at various way-side
-houses, not inns, simply neat commodious places
-where we were always expected and welcomed,
-and sure of a meal and bed. One of these was
-the Fraser House at Beaumont: it still exists,
-but sadly deteriorated, and occupied by a
-French farmer and family. It is a very long
-low house in a very small quiet country village,
-prettily situated with a view of the St. Lawrence.
-
-On one occasion my husband and myself drove
-up to the door. "Welcome!" (we were frequent
-visitors) "but it is well you did not come a few
-days sooner. Who do you think has just left?
-Lord and Lady Elgin,"—and I forget whether
-she said any children. "Come, and I'll show you
-the room as I arranged it for Lady Elgin." If you
-have never, my readers, seen a genuine
-old-fashioned habitant bedstead, I would almost
-fail to impress you with its height; you could
-not possibly get into it without standing on a
-chair, and two of these were placed side by
-side, taking in one whole side of a room, with
-the long white curtains pendant from a rod
-attached to the ceiling. I can hardly think of
-it now without smiling. Of course, it must
-have been for the novelty of the thing that Lady
-Elgin used it instead of having one brought
-from Quebec. Perhaps one gets so tired of
-formality and grandeur, a change becomes a
-welcome relief. We said we had but twenty
-minutes to stay, and must have lunch at once.
-In about ten minutes we had a most delicious
-fricassee of chicken in white sauce. On
-complimenting Mrs. Fraser, she said, "I learnt how to
-make that from Lord Elgin's cook, and was I
-not smart? those chickens were running about
-when you came." That spoilt all, ah—if she only
-had not told us? There are numerous pretty
-villages all along the south shore. None prettier
-than that of St. Michel, adjacent to Beaumont.
-It much resembles Kamouraska, though much
-prettier as the foliage is so lovely.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`ST. MICHEL`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- ST. MICHEL.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-St. Michel is a delightful summer residence,
-about fifteen miles from Quebec, reached
-directly by steamer every day, or by railroad
-a few miles from the village.
-
-We resided there for a couple of years, and
-then made the acquaintance of the Rev. Mr. Drolet,
-who with his mother and sisters
-tendered us such kindly hospitality. The
-Parsonage became to all of us a Maison Paternelle,
-for the family all spoke English as well as
-French, and the genial curé, a very clever and
-devoted priest, was in his home an admirable
-host. I shall have occasion elsewhere to speak
-of him. I will conclude this article with a few
-verses I found lately, written on the spur of the
-moment from the circumstance of one of the
-ladies nearly falling through a trap door into
-the cellar of the dining-room of the
-old-fashioned house we then occupied.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`A CHRONICLE OF ST. MICHEL`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- A CHRONICLE OF ST. MICHEL.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-.. class:: center medium
-
- A REMEMBRANCE OF HAPPY DAYS.
-
-.. vspace:: 1
-
-..
-
- | It was a winter evening,
- | The moon was shining bright,
- | When from a lady's parlor
- | Came sounds of laughter light.
- | But, suddenly, the scene is changed,
- | There's heard a warning shriek,
- | And borne upon the air the words,
- | "Oh! dear, will no one speak?"
- | Unheeding trap, just at her feet,
- | Comes with majestic mien
- | A damsel of sweet presence,
- | And smiling all serene.
- | Her eyes are like the glowworm,
- | Her cheeks like damask rose,
- | She holds her head so loftily,
- | She looks not at her toes;
- | When, roused from contemplation sweet
- | Of bottles ale and stout,
- | A head above the trap appears—
- | "What's all this row about?
- | I see, I see, Miss Flora, dear,
- | You'd all but tumbled down;
- | One further step, and you'd have fall'n
- | On my unlucky crown.
- | Oh! had you tumbled on my head
- | In yonder cellar well,
- | We now, alas, been both quite dead"—
- | A sad old tale to tell.
- | How youth and beauty often fall
- | Into some snare unseen,
- | As so hath chanced in many a day
- | And yet full oft I ween,
- | While thoughtless youth with eager step
- | Pursues its heedless way.
-
- | MORAL.
-
- | Then damsels all who hear my tale
- | Hold not your heads so high,
- | A downward glance give now and then,
- | Hid dangers to descry.
- |
-
-We arrive at St. Thomas after a forty miles
-drive, and stay over, if the tide does not serve
-for coming, at Madame F.'s well-known hotel—not
-far from which is the residences of the
-late Sir Etienne Taché and Mr. Bender,
-father of the present well-known Boston
-physician, Dr. Bender.
-
-A short distance from here is the house now
-occupied by E. P. Bender, formerly owned by
-Mr. William Patton, a splendid specimen of
-an English gentleman. A lumber merchant,
-doing a large business with ample means, his
-house was the home of generous hospitality. It
-is thirty years since I visited it or more—it then
-gave you an idea of one of England's far-famed
-country homes; Everything handsome, well
-ordered grounds, its steel grates (then a novelty),
-and handsome paperings, a host so courteous,
-his wife a refined lady of the old school—all
-appeared to promise long years of happiness
-to its inmates, when in a day, alas! all was
-changed. Mr. Patton was most energetic in
-his efforts to hasten the building of the
-railroad from Quebec to St. Thomas, and went
-into town to see Messrs. Morton, Peto &
-Brassey, when he met his fate. Overheated
-by his exertions, he lay down to rest opposite
-an open window facing the St. Lawrence, a
-gale sprung up, he got a chill, and in twenty-four
-hours he was dead, of inflammation, before
-his wife could reach him, and yet she arrived
-almost in time, due to a mysterious warning of
-some kind, I forget what it was—she told me of
-it herself.
-
-Sitting quietly in her room she heard or saw
-something, and, convinced that her husband
-needed her, she ordered a carriage, and, despite
-all remonstrance, drove all night, and passed in
-the darkness the carriage sent for her, and
-arrived in the grey dawn of morning to find her
-husband just dead.
-
-How many such unaccountable occurrences
-happen. I could tell of at least six such
-experiences in my own history. My theory is this,
-that under certain conditions thought meets
-thought, and so mesmerically impresses on the
-loved one its own yearnings and wishes.
-
-Previous to Mr. Patton's purchasing it, this
-house had been occupied by several families of
-note, the De Beaujeus, Olivas, etc. It was
-purchased a few years since by E. P. Bender, Esq.,
-who now occupies it with his family.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`SECOND VISIT TO ROBERVAL, LAKE ST. JOHN`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold white-space-pre-line
-
- SECOND VISIT TO ROBERVAL,
- LAKE ST. JOHN.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-I was unfortunately prevented from visiting
-Roberval until late in the season—in fact, only a
-few weeks before the hotel closed—but I saw
-enough to confirm my first impressions as to
-its desirability as a summer resort for people
-who really need to recuperate after the wear
-and tear of town life. It was late in August, a
-cold spell was on; we arrived per railroad on
-Pullman car, which brings you to the very gate
-of the hotel premises. A dull heavy rain came
-down as we got off the cars, but what of
-that? you are ushered into a hallway where burns a
-generous grate fire. Courteous officials greet
-you and inquire your wants. Shown to a
-comfortable bedroom, and then to a supper as good
-in quality as meals served in most town hotels,
-with excellent attendance, you fancy you are in
-fairy land, as, gazing on the wild country around,
-you remember that this locality a few years ago
-was not even inhabited by farmers, but all was
-bush. Ushered into the ladies' parlor you are
-greeted by a most winning hostess, Mrs. Scott,
-daughter of the Honorable Mr. Shehyn, who,
-residing here at present with her children, does the
-honors, and welcomes you as if to her own
-private parlor. The season was so nearly over
-there were comparatively few guests, but those
-of the most pleasant—Dr. and Mrs. Lovely,
-Rev. Mr. —— and his wife, and several members of
-the Beemer family, who by their musical talents
-contributed largely to our enjoyment. Roberval
-I am sure has a grand future before it.
-Dr. Lovely, one of the most eminent physicians of
-the United States, assured me that he had
-discovered coal-oil there, not five miles from the
-hotel, and also some stone (I forget what) of
-which he was taking specimens away with him.
-He said if it was what he thought, it would
-indeed be a bonanza.
-
-It appears to me that Roberval would be
-especially beneficial for those suffering from
-nervous exhaustion or debility, or tendency to
-consumption. The pure mountain air, the quiet, the
-absence of rush and excitement, must surely be
-most grateful to such parties, while for those
-who want a livelier existence, the trips in
-excursion steam-boats, the visits to various other
-fishing grounds, the power of jumping on the
-railroad that comes to your door and whirls you
-off for a few hours to other lakes, is a matter
-not to be lost sight of. Added to the perfect
-inside comfort of this hotel—baths on your
-bedroom flat—the immense piazza runs the full
-length of the building, affording in wet weather
-an excellent promenade, with a view of the
-lovely lake, and what I much appreciated was
-the absence of the horrid gong calling you to
-meals. Here you are told the time for meals,
-and if you so desire a civil waiter calls you at the
-hour you name, but the fearful din that
-elsewhere rouses you from your pet morning sleep
-is absent.
-
-Entering the ladies' parlor in the evening
-you feel almost that you are in a private
-house. A bright fire burns in an open
-grate. Some fair lady is employing her talents
-at the piano in your service, and you enjoy some
-really good music, when one of the ladies asks
-are you to have a little dance or a small game
-of cards—the first at once, the latter when we
-are tired. After a short time small tables are
-brought in, the guests group into little coteries,
-each one retires when he will, after enjoying all
-the comforts of a home with the liberty of an
-hotel.
-
-I must not forget to state that at the village,
-about a mile from the hotel, is a Roman Catholic
-Church and fine Ursuline Convent, a delightful
-boarding school for young ladies, who enjoy
-boating every day and pleasant little trips to an
-island now belonging to the Nuns. There is
-also a telegraph in the hotel, and any amount
-of vehicles and horses and boats for visitors—also
-cheaper boarding houses in the village for
-those who require them.
-
-During the few days I stayed there, one or
-two funny incidents occurred. On one occasion
-I had an old man to drive me, when I said, "I
-hope it will not rain before we get home." "I
-hope it won't, indeed," he said, "I am not dry
-yet since yesterday." "How is that?" I asked.
-Said he: "I was out with that party from the
-hotel who when out fishing were so drenched, and
-the storm being so great I stayed by the hotel
-kitchen fire instead of going home to change;
-but, madame," as a sudden thought struck him,
-"you live at the hotel, is there a doctor living
-there?" Having been there only a few hours,
-I did not know, but inquired why he asked.
-"The fact is, I hear that when people come
-from Louisiana or Paris, a party of ten always
-brings a doctor with them" (a party
-recently arrived just numbering ten), "and
-hearing that I had a son ill, one gentleman said if I
-would take him to see my son or bring my son
-to him, he would try and cure him." "Well,"
-I asked, "have you done so?" "But no," he
-said, "he is English." (I spoke in French and he
-thought I was a French Canadian.) "What
-difference would that make?" "Why, madame, do
-you think the English know anything?" "Well,"
-I said, "perhaps a little; you might try the
-doctor." At the same time I was quite
-prepared to hear that he was a victim of some
-practical joke from his statement that every ten
-persons coming from Louisiana or Paris brought
-a doctor with them; I little expected the
-dénouement. "Oh! my son would not see him at
-all. He said, 'father, do you wish me to die
-at once?' But, madame, I would not have
-minded taking him to the doctor myself. You
-don't think that even though English he would
-have given him something to kill him at once?"
-"Oh! no," I answered, "I am sure he would
-not do that." But my story does not end here.
-On entering the parlor, where several were
-seated, I addressed a peculiarly pleasant lady
-near me, and began to narrate for their benefit
-my conversation with the old driver, when I
-noticed my hearer give a kind of warning glance:
-and then she went off into a merry peal of
-laughter as the door opened and a gentleman
-popped in his head. "Come here, my dear, learn a
-lesson of humility. This, my dear lady, is my
-husband, Dr. Lovely" (I have learned since that he
-is one of the most well-known of American
-physicians); "he is the Englishman, who can't
-know anything."
-
-The doctor, who enjoyed the joke, engaged the
-same driver next day to have his fun as much
-as anything. After a good deal of skirmishing,
-he elicited all from the old coachman, who,
-however, said, though English, if Dr. L——
-was a Roman Catholic, he might induce his son
-to trust him, as he believed that the little
-bottles he showed him really contained *des
-remèdes*. I know that the doctor explained to
-him that, though not a Roman Catholic, he
-attended nearly all the members of that
-denomination in the United States, and there was some
-kind of negotiation going on when I left. They
-may have come to terms, and the boy cured,
-despite himself. Perhaps this poor old chap,
-living for many years utterly isolated from
-civilization, might have the same horror of *Les
-terribles Anglais* that the English peasantry
-had of Napoleon the First, who, when children
-were refractory, were threatened to be given to
-'Bonaparte. And, now, as some of our English
-people may be hard on this old French-Canadian,
-I must tell you that the clergyman's
-wife, attached to some very prominent hospital
-in one of the large cities of the United States,
-said they came across sometimes very odd
-cases, and instanced that of a patient coming
-to the hospital, and, being ordered to take a
-bath, said he had never taken a bath in his life,
-and must go home and consult his wife. He
-went and never returned!!! This, in one of
-the largest cities of America. So don't too
-much despise the old backwoodsman's prejudice.
-As Mrs. Lovely most kindly invited me to pay
-her a visit, I may yet tell you more about this
-very true tale.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`ST. LEON SPRINGS`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- ST. LEON SPRINGS.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-It is fully fifty years ago since my father
-took me to Three Rivers en route for St. Leon
-Springs. We were most hospitably received
-by Mr. Lajoie (father of the present dry goods
-merchant of Three Rivers), and his good lady,
-and Mr. Faucher de St. Maurice, father of the
-present gentleman of the same name. Of the
-party were, I think, Mr. Gingras, whose son,
-brother-in-law of Mr. Dorion, recently deceased,
-was the first I think to establish the reputation
-of these waters. After a sumptuous repast at
-Mr. Lajoie's, we were driven to St. Leon Springs,
-and this us what I remember of it then: a steep
-sandy hill, up which was walking a pale, thin
-young lady, whom my father pointed out to me
-as Miss G——; that lady has been in bed
-seven years, you see her walking now; whether
-the cure was permanent or not I have no means
-of ascertaining, but Mr. Campbell, late proprietor
-of St. Leon Springs, told me only two weeks
-since that he remembered Miss G—— perfectly.
-Mr. Campbell further told me since that his
-father had noticed the cattle drinking at this
-spring, and finding it had a peculiar taste, had it
-analyzed, and gave to the public this boon for
-the afflicted, and health-preserving drink for the
-sick. We had tea that day at the Springs on a
-deal table, without table-cloth, seated on wooden
-benches, while carpenters were putting the roof
-on a large building we sat in. I presume this
-was the first hotel, rather a contrast to that of
-the present day, which is yearly crowded with
-an increased number of fashionable visitors from
-all parts of the Dominion, in search of health
-or amusement. This hotel has been very lately
-enlarged and fitted up with every modern
-convenience. Parties leaving Montreal by the
-Canadian Pacific Railroad, and getting off at
-Louiseville, will find vehicles waiting to take
-them to St. Leon Springs.
-
-This lady just alluded to, Miss G——, was
-one of those peculiar patients one hears of in a
-lifetime, and, as all her near relatives are dead
-and few will recognize the initial, I will inform
-my readers that Dr. A——, one of my father's
-physicians (now deceased), told me that she
-was afflicted with a kind of fit—cataleptic, I
-think, they called it—when she fell into a
-state so closely resembling death that two of
-Quebec's most prominent medical men were
-about to perform a post-mortem examination
-on her, when the slight quiver of an eyelid
-proved her still alive, and on her recovering
-she told them that, though unable to make the
-slightest motion, she had heard and seen all
-that had passed, and Dr. A—— was exceedingly
-indignant that such a subject should have
-been sent to him as an ordinary patient, as the
-same thing might have occurred again. He
-was, if I mistake not, then residing in Halifax
-and he told me that all the instructions he
-received were to provide a suitable lodging for
-a nervous patient, who could afford to pay well
-for a quiet private residence. Accordingly,
-Dr. A—— persuaded a well-to-do Scotch
-farmer to take her as a boarder. For a time
-all went well, though she would go off into a
-sort of trance, when she lay apparently dead
-for perhaps three days and returned to
-consciousness, often cognizant of what had occurred
-during her semi-deathlike state. But on one
-occasion her second sight, if you can so term
-it, was so great, she terrified the old people so,
-they begged the doctor to remove her, saying
-she was no canny. The facts were these:—On
-one occasion Miss G—— fell into her
-cataleptic state, and the doctor not expecting
-her to revive before a certain time, said he
-would not call till the following Thursday. But
-on the Tuesday, receiving a summons from a
-very old patient, twenty miles distant, he
-decided on calling on her *en route*. The
-weather being rainy, he asked for a covered
-vehicle, and the only one procurable was a
-shabby, very old-fashioned waggon. In the
-meantime, Miss G—— awoke from her trance,
-and said, "the doctor is coming." "No," said
-the mistress of the house; "he is not coming
-till Thursday." "He is coming now," said
-Miss G——, "he is at the red gate" (a gate
-some distance from the back of the house, and
-too far for any sound to reach)—"what a funny
-carriage he has." When he really drove up in
-this queer-looking vehicle, the landlady was so
-scared, she uttered that exclamation, "she is
-no canny," and insisted that board should be
-taken elsewhere. I offer no explanation—let
-the savants do that—I only narrate facts I
-vouch for.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`MY SECOND VISIT TO ST. LEON SPRINGS`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- MY SECOND VISIT TO ST. LEON SPRINGS.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-Going by the Canadian Pacific Railroad to
-Louiseville, we took a trap awaiting at the
-station, and, after a drive over a rather
-pretty country road, arrived at St. Leon
-Springs. Alas! the season was over, only
-Mr. Thomas and his son, and Mr. Langlois, were
-there, and a few servants. Nevertheless, we
-saw enough to convince us what a delightful
-health resort this must be in summer. When I
-say health resort, I do not mean pleasure resort,
-though there is plenty of amusement for
-reasonable people, who would find pleasant
-companionship, dancing, music, drives, croquet,
-lawn-tennis sufficient for summer heat; but,
-we speak now of St. Leon Springs as a retreat
-for the really ill or convalescent, and as such it
-must simply be perfection. A large hotel, nicely
-kept, numerous bath-rooms, all fitted up with
-an abundant supply of St. Leon water for
-bathing, excellent meals, well-cooked and nicely
-served, as we saw even during our brief and
-unexpected stay (I have never eaten such
-perfect home-made bread as there), with the
-drinking of these health-giving waters, must
-surely be of incalculable benefit. Twitting
-Mr. Langlois on the supposition that perhaps
-in cities the St. Leon water is in part
-manufactured, Mr. Langlois told us a funny incident.
-He said, I think it was in Toronto, he
-overheard some one saying, as his trucks came in
-loaded with barrels: "I wonder how much of
-this is manufactured?" On the impulse of the
-moment, Mr. L—— gave a hint to the carters
-to dump the casks on the pavement instead of
-taking them through the yard.
-
-As anticipated, a policeman came up and
-remonstrated on impeding the sidewalk. Soon
-a crowd gathered. Just what Mr. L—— desired.
-When spoken to, he said: "Of course, it was an
-oversight, the water should have been taken
-into the yard; but as it was there, he would
-like to prove to the people assembled how
-genuine was the water, by tapping several
-barrels, and, igniting with a match the gas, said:
-"My friends, can any of you manufacture gas
-in water to burn like this?" Mr. L—— is not
-by any means a man you would credit with
-being a religious enthusiast; but I will never
-forget the solemnity of the act, as, raising his
-hand towards Heaven, he uttered these words:
-"He who made these waters can alone make
-the gas."
-
-Mr. Thomas, a wealthy gentleman, with his
-son, for health and occupation, takes the
-management here. The latter, quite a sport,
-drove us with his blood horses to the station, at
-a pace that made me tremble. There a grand
-old-fashioned coach with four spanking horses
-waits at the railroad station to drive you in
-style to the hotel. Come and try them, my
-fast American friends. I will conscientiously
-stick to the old-fashioned one-horse buckboard—not
-elegant and hardly comfortable, but very safe.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`ST. RAYMOND`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- ST. RAYMOND.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-About eight years ago my dear husband and
-myself took rooms for the summer with a
-Mr. Ignace Déry, a carpenter. The house, a very
-large one of many buildings, was prettily
-situated on the banks of the river. Facing the
-house an immense barn indicated the prosperity
-of the farm. In course of conversation I remarked
-to Mr. D. how astonished I was to find such a
-handsome church, fine shops, and a musical
-choir, with a thriving village, in a place we had
-only heard of a few years before. "You will
-be more surprised, dear lady," he said, "when
-I inform you that I came here fifty years ago,
-a boy of fifteen, against my people's will, with
-another cousin, and broke the first road in
-what was all then bush." "How did you
-hear of this place at all?" "Well, from the
-Indians, and I went out with the surveyors and
-thought what a splendid place it was for a
-settlement, and said so, but my father would
-not hear of it. However, one day, my cousin,
-Joseph Déry, said to me after church, 'Have
-you decided on coming to squat or take
-possession and make an opening on these
-lands?' 'My family will not hear of it,' I
-answered. 'Well, then, come without their
-leave; if they see you succeed, they will
-be quite satisfied.'" So Déry and his cousin
-started off right after mass, the equipment of
-the former being a loaf of bread and piece of
-pork procured from his sister, whom he let
-into the secret, about half a bag of potatoes
-for seed, a hatchet, and his working clothes
-and a little salt. The boys walked out about
-fifteen miles: the one, my friend Déry, remained
-at the east end, his cousin at the west. These
-two houses now form the boundary in a certain
-measure of the village of St. Raymond. Mr. Déry
-told me his first occupation was to plant
-some potatoes, then build a small hut, and he
-said for food he had only to dip a line into the
-river back of the site of his house to procure
-all the fish he needed. On this he lived, with
-fruit and a little flour procured later. Such
-was the commencement of this prosperous
-village. The cousin, Joseph Déry, still kept
-a few years ago intact his first cottage, though
-building a comfortable house beside it.
-
-.. vspace:: 3
-
-.. class:: center
-
- ANOTHER PIONEER
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-In the autumn we moved for a month nearer
-the village, and occupied the house owned by
-Mr. Beaupré. It was a commodious dwelling,
-neatly furnished, and on my remarking a
-rather nice bureau in my room, and inquiring
-if they had a cabinet-maker in the village, my
-landlady answered, "Oh! my husband made
-that himself, and, though never apprenticed to
-any trade, built nearly the whole of this house
-himself." and then the old gentleman, pointing
-to the other side of the river, said, "Do you
-notice, madame, that clump of trees; well,
-beneath that rock is a cavern which I
-discovered and made a residence of when, as a
-boy of thirteen, I walked from St. Augustine
-across the country to there, to see what I could
-do for myself. I had no near relations, and
-determined if possible, by squatting, to get a
-home. I built a projecting porch, and lived
-for many a month in that cavern. I earned
-my living by doing odd jobs for the farmers,
-who came from some distance, and helped to
-row them over in a scow to St. Raymond
-proper, now the village, to get their horses
-shod, and while waiting for their return, noticed
-how the blacksmiths worked; then it occurred
-to me how well a blacksmith would do on my
-side of the river (thus saving the crossing), and
-I commenced to learn, and here I am, the
-master of a comfortable home and several
-farms"—the reward of energy and favorable
-circumstances, which brought the railroad to
-their very doors, and with large stores opening
-for the supply of the railroad employees, and
-the influx of summer visitors, has made the
-desert blossom like a rose, and a charming
-village (the intersecting waters spanned by a
-pretty bridge), spring in a few years from the
-bush.
-
-Mr. Panet, advocate, and his charming wife
-are residents here. Mr. P., representative
-and nephew of Mrs. Shakspeare, wife of General
-Shakspeare, daughter of Bernard Panet, of old
-Quebec memory.
-
-.. vspace:: 3
-
-.. class:: center
-
- OCTOBER 28, 1890.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-I have just returned from St. Raymond and
-learnt some additional facts anent the Dérys
-I found interesting, and detail them for public
-benefit. The daughter-in-law of Joseph Déry
-said her father-in-law was the first, except
-sportsmen and Indians, who had ever been to
-St. Raymond; a little pathway through the
-woods was their inroad. He started to find
-the River St. Anne, which runs through St. Raymond;
-he found his walk very fatiguing from
-Lorette, and arriving at the Cape, under which
-runs the St. John railway now, was delighted to
-find he was nearing his destination. He named
-the hill Cap Joyeuse, which name it still bears.
-On wishing to see the first cabin he had built, she
-said, by recent surveys, it would be situated in
-the middle of the river, as the waters of the St
-Anne river had gradually washed the bank away.
-The end of the first cottage built is still extant,
-every plank used in it being sawed by hand,
-and the portrait of Mr. Joseph Déry hangs on
-its walls.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`ST. AUGUSTIN`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- ST. AUGUSTIN,
-
-.. class:: center medium
-
- ABOUT 15 MILES WEST OF QUEBEC.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-I do not know that I ever heard much of
-St. Augustin in my earlier days, except as the
-residence of Mr. Gale, an oldtime school master,
-who fixed his residence there, and taught many
-of the (after) prominent men of Quebec. His
-wife, a prim little lady of wax-doll complexion
-and flaxen hair done up in frizzes, was quite a
-character as well as her husband. A very
-kind-hearted little lady she was, with a peculiar gift of
-hospitality, and her cakes and home-made wine
-were of wide renown. Mr. Gale had a taste for
-antiquities; a small museum, in great part
-contributions of curiosities, the gifts of his admiring
-scholars, was one of his cherished parlor ornaments.
-
-His was a school of the *ancien régime*, but
-in its best sense, though religiously a day was
-appointed for the pulling out of teeth, those for
-administering sulphur and molasses and other
-time-honored medicines, happily or unhappily
-exploded.
-
-Nevertheless, Mr. Gale's was a thoroughly
-comfortable home, and his students had a true
-regard for himself and good wife, testified often
-in later years by his *anciens élèves* constantly
-sending him contributions of rare articles to add
-to his collection.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`ST. ANDRÉ`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- ST. ANDRÉ—NEXT PARISH BELOW KAMOURASKA.
-
-.. class:: center small
-
- "In the days when we went gipseying a long time ago."
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-About seventy-five years ago or more a wealthy
-Englishman, John S. Campbell, came out from
-the old country and commenced a large business
-in lumber and ship building at the part of
-St. André called Pointe Sèche. Here he built a
-beautiful residence with every luxury and
-appliances then known, splendid walks in the
-shrubbery, beautiful gardens, and even a residence
-for a physician, as at that time there was
-a great deal of ship fever, and he employed a
-great number of workmen in his ship building
-and other mercantile business. He brought out
-his wife (with her lady's maid), who, accustomed
-to society life, must have been indeed startled at
-the contrast of her surroundings, for here she
-was virtually in a wilderness. It is true that
-previous to the railroad from Quebec to the
-lower ports, these same villages had much more
-life in a business point than to-day, for then all
-travellers stopped at the wayside inns, and there
-being no facilities for going or coming from
-Quebec, the shopkeepers who brought down in
-their schooners goods at certain seasons of the
-year did a fine business, and really large
-fortunes were made by many: an apt illustration
-of the truth of the vulgar old proverb, "that
-what is one man's meat is another man's poison,"
-for the railroad, which is such a boon to the
-farmers and those bordering its route, has proved
-utterly destructive to the old-fashioned inns and
-shops on the old route, for the transfer being
-solely by vehicles, a regular influx of travellers
-was expected and received, thus giving life to
-the village and current cash.
-
-Mr. J. S. Campbell and his lady becoming
-after some years thoroughly disgusted,
-abandoned the place, and so swiftly, I many years
-after, about forty years ago, found a book
-belonging to the family in the disused dining-room.
-I heard from one of the family to-day
-who own this lovely property now, and use it
-as a summer residence (Mrs. Rankin of Dorchester
-street), that a caretaker had been left in
-charge of the property; if so, his conscience
-must have been very lax, for it was the custom
-of all those giving picnics at Kamouraska, who
-wished to do so, to use the house as well as the
-grounds, and to simply walk in at open doors and
-take temporary possession. Well, on one
-occasion my father-in-law's family had a kind of
-picnic, but, though going up to the Campbell
-grounds, had brought their provisions to a neat
-little wayside inn a short distance, from the mill
-and wharf built by the aforesaid J. S. Campbell;
-and as I always preferred a quiet read to those
-excursions (I fear I am naturally rather lazy),
-I said I would await their return at the small
-hotel—its quiet and cleanliness were very
-inviting. "But," said Mr. McP. (I think I hear
-the words as he addressed me often in fun),
-"Mistress Charlotte, if you stay behind, you
-are responsible for the dinner." I promised in
-good faith, and with a firm resolve of doing my
-duty, that all should be in order on their return,
-and, telling the landlady at what hour lunch
-must be ready, made arrangements for an hour
-of delightful repose, by ensconcing myself into
-the most cosy of sofas with an interesting novel.
-As the old grandmother's clock tolled forth the
-midday hour, it struck me I had better see how
-the dinner was progressing for the hungry folks
-expected soon. Fortunately, I did not delay,
-for, to my dismay, I found the lamb-chops put
-to boil, and the green peas frying in the
-frying-pan. By hastily changing their positions, I
-managed matters so as to disguise my carelessness,
-and so all was well that ends well.
-
-A thoroughly respectable house like the
-Campbell House, of Pointe Sèche, could not
-be without its ghost, and it's doubly guaranteed
-by having two of them: one a lady who is heard
-to moan and sob and say she was shut up from
-every one (it is presumed Mrs. C., who,
-instead of dying of ennui and country fare,
-took the more sensible plan of returning to
-England); the other, the apparition of a
-gentleman, supposed to have been murdered
-because he disappeared—a rejected suitor put
-on board a vessel by Mr. C. for making too
-violent love to a cousin and quarrelling with a
-more favored lover. I have exorcised several
-ghosts already, and would like to try my
-observations on those inhabitants of a higher, or,
-more likely, our earthly sphere, to whom the
-unoccupancy of this fine mansion might be a
-convenience.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`LES EBOULEMENTS`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- LES EBOULEMENTS.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-So called from the tremblings of constant
-earthquakes, which with apparent volcanic
-action has thrown up hill after hill so steep. I can
-compare the ascent and descent to nothing else
-but a winter sleighing slide. In fact, the hills are
-almost perpendicular, and almost inaccessible to
-a nervous party, who in descending feels as if he
-must fall on the horse's tail, and ascending drop
-out of the cart behind. Yet to the young
-and active it is a wild, lovely summer resort, its
-unusual scenery presenting a most pleasurable
-and novel spectacle. In fact, my friends, if you
-have a desire to visit Switzerland and cannot
-compass it, just go to Les Eboulements, and very
-little imagination will help you to transport
-yourself there. Cradled in mist, perched on some
-rocky elevation, with the simple people about
-you, you can easily deem yourself in the land of
-William Tell. But, did I say simple? yes, with
-a spice of modern craft, for I well remember a
-friend being ill asking me, as it was a
-non-licensed place, to ask the landlady for a little
-stimulant of any kind, as she might give it to me
-instead of a gentleman. The answer to my
-demand was the query, "What would you have?" "Well,
-if possible, port wine," and a bottle of
-excellent quality was forthcoming, and also the
-remark, "if more is required, in fact, as much as
-is necessary can be obtained. We have plenty
-for our own use." As these people were great
-fish traders with St. Pierre Miquelon, in view of
-recent developments as to the smuggling
-business I have my thoughts, but as I believe in
-free trade between all nations, and I should
-think it no sin to smuggle myself, I do not
-condemn them.
-
-Apropos of smuggling, a funny incident came
-under my observation. A young married cousin
-some years ago lived on the border dividing
-Canada from the United States, and while (with
-the fresh memory of the Fenian raids) countenanced,
-as was said, by the Americans, expressed
-great dislike to Brother Jonathan. He dubbed
-her a thorough Yankee, and she proved herself
-a very cute one. Well, these ladies had been
-accustomed under lax custom house discipline
-to drive over to St. Albans and purchase many
-effects, cotton especially, at a very much less
-price than on Canadian soil, and were very
-indignant when a new official was appointed,
-who openly boasted that no tricks would be
-played upon him. That was enough for my
-sprightly cousin. She arranged a plan with her
-sister, went over in a light waggon, and when
-stopped at the frontier by the aforesaid young
-clerk on her return, who, with many apologies,
-requested leave to search her vehicle, answered
-in a tone of impatience, "Well, search my
-waggon as much as you please, but don't wake my
-baby." She held in her arms a good-sized
-baby in long clothes, a heavy veil covering the
-face. The official searched and found nothing
-contraband. He was, however, very much
-disgusted to hear later that the baby was a mass
-of dress and cotton goods, and that Mrs. K., as
-she walked up and down the platform soothing
-her supposed infant, was inwardly chuckling
-over her clever trick played on the too confident
-custom house clerk.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`SOCIETY IN QUEBEC FIFTY YEARS AGO`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- SOCIETY IN QUEBEC FIFTY YEARS AGO.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-Fifty years ago Quebec was a prominent military
-station, and from that circumstance, as well
-as the fact that it counted amongst its members
-so many of the truly good old French families
-of the *ancienne noblesse*, there was then none
-of that petty jealousy between French and
-English. They had fought valiantly, but when
-peace was declared they shook hands heartily
-and became friends. The English reserve was
-tempered by French suavity, and as Captain
-Warburton, in his Stadacona *Feuilleton*, says,
-"There were such a number of pretty girls in
-Quebec, and so attractive, such pleasant
-manners, combining maidenly reserve with refined
-out-spokenness, they were irresistible, and some
-English mammas, it was said, murmured sadly
-when they heard their darling sons were to be
-sent to Canada, fearing they would be effectually
-captured, as they certainly would be, in the silken
-but enduring nets of the fair demoiselles;
-however, they must have been satisfied eventually,
-for the ladies of whom the military gentlemen
-deprived us of have done credit to their native city."
-
-Old Quebecers will remember Miss L., wife
-of General Elliot; Miss A., wife of General
-Pipon; Miss P., wife of General Shakspeare,
-and dozens of others; but I have before me
-at least twenty beautiful and accomplished
-ladies, our society belles who accompanied the
-red coats to England. What a different aspect
-Quebec wore when the military were first taken
-away! it seemed as if the silence of death
-reigned, and why all should have been taken
-has ever been an unanswered question.
-
-Of people prominent in society in my early
-days were Mr. Lemesurier, Judge McCord,
-Mr. Berthelot (he gave me a French grammar, I
-remember, he had published; he was father-in-law
-of Sir Louis LaFontaine), Mr. Faribault, the
-Hon. John Malcolm Fraser, Mr. Symes, whose
-pretty and amiable daughter married the
-son of the Empress Eugenie's trusty friend,
-the Marquis de Bassano.
-
-Besides the house occupied by the Hon. George
-Primrose, there was at that time but one
-small house used by the military, and now the
-site of the splendid residence of the
-Hon. Mr. Thibodeau, facing the Governor's garden. At
-the intersecting street facing the river is the
-old Langham house, still occupied by her
-grand-daughter, Mrs. T.; a few doors from
-there the residence of Chief Justice Bowen,
-whose ladies entertained a great deal, and
-one of whose daughters was the wife of the
-late Rev. Mr. Houseman.
-
-We will take a skip now to where Palace
-gate formerly stood, and watch G. H. Parke,
-Esq., a noted whip (father of Dr. Parke), and
-see him guide his tandem through one of the
-sally-ports to the houses of the members of the
-tandem, who could in vain hope to follow him.
-Mr. P., who delighted in guiding the club through
-most intricate places, had taken the measure of
-the sally-port and knew his cariole would pass
-through, and thus triumphantly headed the
-others, who feared to follow him. Should he
-read this account of his old exploit, I am sure
-it would yet bring up a smile.
-
-The remembrance of this feat recalls a story
-I have heard of the time of the noted Chamberlain
-gang. There were no houses at one time
-between the grand house here and a large one
-opposite St. Patrick's church, at that time
-occupied by Miss or Mrs. M., an elderly
-lady of ample means, who occupied the
-present residence of J. Scott, Esq., formerly the
-home of Mr. Faucher de St. Maurice. This
-Chamberlain was the leader of a notorious gang,
-who for some time held Quebec in a state
-of terror; their rapacity, cruelty and audacity
-exceeded anything ever before seen, and they
-continued their course with impunity till a
-most providential circumstance caused their
-discovery. Well, one of their exploits was to
-get one of their gang into Mrs. M.'s as
-ostensible man servant to rob the house. Late at
-night one of the maids discerned a light in
-the basement and heard voices, indicating
-that there were robbers in the dwelling. She
-thought for a moment of trying to run and get
-help from the guard, but fearing that unlocking
-the back door might arouse the burglars, she
-decided on barricading the room in which her
-mistress slept, hoping to be able to call for
-help to some passer-by; but alas! none came;
-the robbers came up, quickly destroyed her
-barricade, and though she fought bravely
-with some fire-wood,—the only weapon at her
-hand—was overpowered, gagged, tied up with
-her mistress in a carpet, and so left for hours.
-When the milkman and butcher came and
-called ineffectually for admittance, the doors
-were forced, and they were released after much
-suffering; such was a sample of some of their
-exploits.
-
-Leaving St. Patrick's church, nearly
-opposite this residence, we go on to and up
-Esplanade Hill, till we come to a pretty little
-church, and it was the sacrilege perpetrated
-here that was the cause of their discovery.
-Amongst other articles they had stolen a solid
-silver statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Every
-effort was made to trace the thieves, but
-ineffectually, till the curiosity of an old country
-woman found them out. Somewhere, I think, back
-of Point Levis, there lived a Canadian farmer,
-whose old domestic had become very much
-disgusted at the changed aspect of the home—from
-a respectable, quiet domicile it had become
-a most disorderly house; half intoxicated people
-coming in and out at all hours, arriving with
-carioles loaded with things kept out of her
-sight. She noticed that she was always sent off
-while they unloaded, and they made their way
-to a hut in the woods built for boiling maple
-sugar, and that huge fires were built, though no
-sugar was made. Finally, she followed the
-gang secretly, and went close enough to hear,
-though not to see, what was going on, and
-overheard these words uttered: "I am very
-sorry for you, my poor little virgin, but you
-must boil in the pot too. Ah! I'll keep this
-little finger to remember you by." Horrified
-beyond expression, the old woman returned
-swiftly to the house and kept a terrified
-watch; her master came in, and most of
-the men drove off; but the one whose voice
-she had recognized was so intoxicated that he
-fell into a heavy sleep, and out of his pocket
-fell the tiny silver finger of the statue. Seizing
-the first opportunity, she sought the parish
-priest and told him all. He at once connected
-the small finger with the recent church
-robbery, enjoined the most absolute silence on
-the woman, and advised her for her own sake
-as well as that of others to go about her work
-as usual and so excite no suspicion. In the
-meantime he communicated with the authorities,
-who wisely determined to make no display
-of their knowledge, as the silver was melted
-and all traces destroyed; but on the occasion
-of the next burglary, a posse of police
-instantly surrounded the place, and effectually
-captured in time the whole gang, several of
-whom were hanged.
-
-They owed their long immunity to the fact
-that several people of position were implicated.
-Some, against their will, too terrified to break
-from them. One man, on the scaffold,
-confessed that a young man unwarily brought into
-their meshes had begged leave to be permitted
-to break off from them on his taking oath never
-to betray them. A seeming acquiescence was
-yielded, and an appointment made to take a
-row on the river to negotiate where no one could
-overhear their conversation. As soon as out of
-sight and sound the man confessed he had
-silenced him effectually by a knock on the head
-and a pitch into the river.
-
-Leaving the little church on the Esplanade,
-on reaching St. Ann, and turning to the left, at
-the top of Ursule hill, you find a double brown
-house, with peculiar pointed turret windows.
-Here I lived when about eight years old, but
-most distinctly do I remember its surroundings.
-Come in and sit with me in the end parlor
-window and I will point out to you Colonel
-(afterwards General) Macdonald, in his brave
-uniform, the picture of dignity, coming down,
-the steps of the building formerly occupied by
-Dr. Boswell; also the house where Dr. Lemieux
-now lives, some officers (Guards, I think) had
-their quarters, and pretty lively quarters they
-were. Most of these gentlemen were rich, young,
-full of fun, and quite regardless of consequences.
-One of their eccentricities was to insist on a
-favorite horse being brought in by the front
-door and harnessed in one of the large rooms
-off the entrance. I used to watch these
-proceedings with great glee. No doubt they paid
-richly for their whistle when settling day came
-with their landlord. But they could well afford
-to pay for their pranks.
-
-Opposite this house, the door facing Ann
-street is still the solid residence, the home
-some years since of the much-lamented Judge
-Alleyne; in the early days I speak of, the
-house of Mr. Le Mesurier, a merchant then,
-but previously an officer in ——, and carrying
-a reminder of the same in an empty sleeve,
-a noble mark of valor.
-
-To be a good carver was then an absolute
-necessity, for all carving was done at table, and
-Mr. Le Mesurier piqued himself on always
-discharging this duty himself, which he did most
-skillfully by means of a peculiarly constructed
-knife and fork. Once seated at a side-table (I
-had been invited to tea with some of the
-younger members of the family), I watched him
-do so with great admiration. I do not recall
-precisely who else were there; but one figure is
-specially impressed on my memory, that of
-Mrs. Kerr (mother of the late Judge Kerr), a
-very stately lady in pink silk and high white plumes.
-
-Mrs. Le Mesurier, although at the head of
-fashionable society, was one of the old-time
-good housekeepers. I think I see her now
-with her keys in hand, giving directions to some
-domestic. She had a large family—all popular;
-but the two special favorites were, I think,
-Miss Harriet, who is married to General Elliot,
-and Henry Le Mesurier, whose former lovely
-residence on the St. Lewis road still exists.
-He had a peculiarly winning charm of manner,
-inherited, as I saw in a very short interview I
-had with him, by his son George.
-
-I will now take you up the Esplanade and
-stop at a cut-stone house on the corner of
-St. Lewis road, once used as the residence of the
-Lieut.-Governor. It was conveniently situated,
-and there was great indignation expressed when
-the project was mooted of buying Spencer
-Wood, for, though in most respects suitable,
-many said it was too far, for those whose position
-entitled them to vice-regal entertainments would
-find horse hire a heavy tax. For, my friends, in
-those early days the almighty dollar was not
-worshipped as now; in fact, very few of those
-moving in the highest society were rich—good
-family, culture and education were the tests, and
-no amount of money would have introduced a
-vulgar person into the charmed circle; in fact,
-permission to subscribe to the Quebec assemblies
-was a matter of almost as great moment as
-admittance to old London Almacks. An instance of
-which may be found in this over-true tale told me
-by an aged aunt who knew all the circumstances.
-Briefly, it was this: A rich tradesman lived on
-Mountain Hill, who had a pretty wife, who, not
-content with every needful luxury for her happiness,
-must needs sigh for, to her, the unattainable
-(that was *entrée* to the castle). On one
-occasion a military gentleman of high position
-who owed this tradesman some money said he
-regretted the circumstance, and that if he would
-give him time he would do anything possible
-for him in return. "Well," said Mr. Blank, "if
-you could do something for my wife, I should
-not only consider the bill paid, but be grateful
-too." "What is asked?" said the colonel. "Just
-this: you see, sir, my wife is young, and has
-taken it into her foolish little head she must get
-to one of the castle balls. Could you get her
-in?" "Nothing easier, my dear sir; on my arm she
-can come in unquestioned." So grand preparations
-were made by the lady, and at the appointed
-time she went to the castle, triumphant,
-on her cavalier's arm, advanced to the
-door where the cards of admission were
-received, when the official in waiting said, "Enter,
-colonel, but Mrs. —— is not known here, where
-is her invitation?" Mortified to death, it was
-said that Mrs. Blank, unwilling to face the
-occupants of the ladies' dressing-room, turned and
-fled precipitately in her slippers and without her
-outward wraps, rushed home, and that chagrin
-and cold brought on a severe illness that
-resulted in consumption. On her death-bed,
-unable to forgive the wound to her pride, she
-made her daughter promise that, eschewing all
-thoughts of love, she would promise her to
-marry only a man of such position she would
-be able to look down on those who had snubbed
-her mother. Being young, rich and pretty, this
-young girl accepted an aged man of very high
-rank, refusing one of the finest young men in
-Quebec, of whom she was fond, and commenced
-a life of unhappiness with a gentleman who in
-his dotage made her live almost a recluse in
-the country, and dress up and go through the
-drill as if he were commanding still.
-
-His death finally rescued her from such a
-life, but by that time her nervous system had
-become so thoroughly unhinged, her mind gave
-way, and the last I knew of her was her being
-sent to the lunatic asylum, having no child or
-relative to care for her. A sad comment on an
-ill-placed mother's ambition.
-
-At the opposite corner of said stone house was
-a pretty little residence occupied at one time
-and owned by the late Major Temple, adjoining
-which was his father-in-law's residence, the late
-Hon. Chief Justice Jonathan Sewell. Both these
-houses still stand, but in vain I look for the
-pretty lace curtains, and the two parrots on their
-stands, calling to you through the bright flowers
-in the window of the late Major Temple's
-residence. As an old Quebecer I am ashamed to
-say that pretty house has been the one blot on
-the whole of Quebec's loveliest street. It has
-been turned into a petty candy shop, a couple
-of bottles of sweets, two or three sugar-sticks
-and halfpenny cakes, and a notice, "Registry
-Office for Servants," replaces the view of the
-parrots and flowers. Were I rich I should purchase
-the property myself, and for old times let some
-one occupy it who would keep up somewhat its
-former appearance. Such a thing would not have
-occurred in Montreal. The Montrealers have
-too much ambition for their city to let it
-deteriorate, and consequently property becomes more
-valuable every day. Why, to think Americans
-should have been permitted to carry off bodily
-the house where Montgomery's body was laid
-and are making a fortune out of it, having set it
-up as an Indian curiosity shop in some part of
-the States. Why not have done it here?
-
-Strolling on through the beautiful St. Louis
-Gate, past the new armory, certainly a credit to
-the old city, and past rows of handsome new
-houses, we come to a solid looking building with
-a golden lion sign. When I looked at it, I
-wondered if it was chosen to beguile the
-innocent into the impression that they were
-at the old chien d'or. It does not need that
-it has memories enough of its own, for here
-lived the late A. Joseph, Esq., and his
-amiable wife, one of the most charming of
-hostesses, and who gave us any number of
-pleasant parties, but almost every house on that
-street (then, as now, quite a fashionable one) is
-associated with pleasant recollections. The one
-just inside the toll gate on the left was then
-occupied by Capt. Charles Campbell, a retired
-officer of Her Majesty's 99th, I think, father
-of our old friend, A. C., joint Prothonotary of
-Quebec.
-
-Mr. Le Moine, in his able work, "The
-Explorations of Eastern Latitudes," by Jonathan
-Old Buck, F. G. S. Q., so graphically depicted
-the Plains of Abraham and its surroundings,
-I can but touch on old personal memories,
-which as they please me in writing, for I live
-but in the past, may serve to amuse you, my
-readers, in an idle hour. I will now stop at
-Spencer Wood, and visit the pretty home of
-our favorite author.
-
-The house at present occupied by Judge
-Bosse, Quebec, was fitted up in 1860 for Lord
-Monck, Spencer Wood having been burnt down
-on 12th March, 1860. Spencer Wood residence
-having been rebuilt and fitted up in accordance
-with the requirements of a permanently selected
-vice-regal residence, was successively occupied
-by the following parties:
-
-Sir Edmund Head, 1860; Lord Monck,
-1861; Sir N. F. Belleau, Lieut.-Governor,
-1867; Hon. R. E. Caron, Lieut.-Governor,
-afterwards Sir R. E. Caron, 1870; Hon. Luc
-Letellier, 1878; Hon. Theodore Robitaille,
-1879; Hon. Mr. Masson, 1884; Hon. Auguste
-Réal Angers, 1889, who married in April, 1890,
-Emelie Le Moine, daughter of the late Alex. Le
-Moine, who now resides there, Oct. 15th, 1890.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`SPENCER GRANGE`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold white-space-pre-line
-
- SPENCER GRANGE, RESIDENCE OF
- JAMES MACPHERSON LE MOINE,
- F.R.L.C.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-You drive through a pretty road, heavily
-lined with trees, but through the foliage discern
-a neat cottage at the left, frequently occupied
-by the pastors of St. Michael's church. On the
-right, facing the grass plots and bedded in trees
-stands a very pretty residence, quite spacious
-inside, and containing every comfort and
-elegance, presided over by a charming
-hostess and her daughters. Mrs. L., the most
-amiable of ladies, spares no fatigue in showing
-you all that can interest, and there is a
-great deal to see at the Grange. The parlor
-windows look on a lawn skirted with various
-trees, where many a wild bird makes its
-nest, and looking outwards, and listening to
-their varied notes, you could fancy yourself in a
-deep wood. From a pretty dining-room you
-pass through a passage lined with marble
-busts of the ancient heroes of Greece and
-Rome, into the grapery, where the heavy
-clusters of grapes look too lovely to be plucked.
-An aviary adjoins this, and at times the soft
-cooing of doves mingles with the other caged
-inmates and the notes of the wild birds in the
-adjacent shrubbery. All is so quiet here, you
-might fancy yourself miles from civilization.
-It is a fitting home for a literary man, and bears
-everywhere an impress of elegance and
-refinement. Mr. Le Moine has some very curious
-heads of rare animals and numerous trophies
-of the chase and rare birds sent by admiring
-friends. The odor of the new-mown hay and the
-varied scent of the flowers complete the charm
-of this pretty home. Amongst other curiosities,
-Mr. Le Moine has the original key of one of
-the city gates, which has been presented to him.
-It is a very ponderous looking affair.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`SOCIETY IN 1854`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- SOCIETY IN 1854.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-We will take a stroll back, citywards, coming
-down the Esplanade, about the year 1850. We
-notice, as we near the Esplanade, the sound of
-the band in full force. The Esplanade benches
-are crowded with ladies. From the windows
-of many houses, spectators look on the gay
-scene; while lord and lady, cavalier and belle,
-pass to and fro to enjoy the military music and
-a chat with their acquaintances. The militia,
-in some measure, replace the regular army, but
-with a difference: the latter were, as a general
-rule, men of wealth, culture, travel, and leisure
-with little else to do but make themselves,
-agreeable to the ladies, which they did so
-successfully as to arouse the ire of the civilians.
-Even from the few houses that face the Esplanade
-alone, one, at least, and, as in the family of
-Sheriff Sewell (now occupied by Mr. Hunt),
-no less than three, if not four, were carried off
-by English officers; and from houses nearly
-adjoining went Miss Panet, Miss Healy, two
-Misses Motz, the handsome Miss Joly, Miss
-Bradshaw, Miss Maxham; and a few doors
-around the corner, on St. Anne street, Miss
-Ashworth.
-
-Amongst the noted belles living on the
-Esplanade were the handsome Burrage ladies
-and the Misses Mackenzie, whose father
-met his death in a very sad manner. There
-was a house situated on the St. Louis road
-called the "H—— House," where (there
-being very large rooms to let for picnic use)
-were often held evening entertainments. On
-one occasion the bachelors gave us a ball there.
-It was a lovely moonlight night, but very cold,
-and, wherever there was little snow, glare ice.
-Mr. Mackenzie and his daughters drove out in
-safety to the door; but, on alighting, he slipped
-and broke his leg. Being a man beyond middle
-age, he never quite recovered. The shock
-was, I think, the prime cause of his death.
-
-C. E. Levy, Esq., occupied the house, former
-corner of St. Anne and the Esplanade. The
-first house opposite, on St. Anne street, was then
-the residence of Captain, afterwards Admiral
-Boxer, and the propinquity was so favorable,
-he induced the handsome daughter of Captain
-B—— to change her father's home for his.
-His widow now owns one of Quebec's most
-beautiful and costly residences on the St. Louis
-road. The house now occupied by Sir William
-Meredith was, when I was a child, the house of
-Judge, after Sir William Stuart. His daughter,
-most kindly I remember, sent me a doll, dressed
-in crimson satin, velvet and train, to represent
-Her Majesty. Its gorgeousness is still before
-me. The corner house above that was at one
-time occupied by Mrs. White, whose two handsome
-daughters married the brothers G——
-and another took captive a favorite army doctor.
-One, her pretty young niece, if I mistake not,
-Miss McG——, afterwards Mrs. B——, lived
-with her here.
-
-Some years later one sees the erect, handsome
-old gentleman, Town-Major Knight, taking his
-daily stroll always arm-in-arm with one of his
-sons, as hale and hearty a year or two before
-his death as he was almost twenty years before.
-One of his daughters still resides in Quebec,
-the wife of our old but always young friend,
-Henry A——.
-
-It gives me so much pleasure to recall
-these old days, to people the streets of my old
-birthplace with dead and gone friends, who
-come up so vividly before my mental vision,
-I could sit for hours and bring them up before
-you; but to strangers this would be wearisome,
-so I'll only glance at one or two more, and then,
-with a few hasty memories of some of our most
-eminent Quebec gentlemen, turn from the past
-to the present. I cannot close without speaking
-of two gentlemen who occupied such a
-prominent place in gay society, Messrs. Angers
-and Lelièvre, lawyers, partners and near
-neighbors. We always looked to them for a
-succession of most agreeable entertainments. If I am
-not mistaken, at the time they lived on
-Haldimand hill, and before they purchased the
-St. Louis hotel, it was divided into two houses,—one
-occupied by that gay old gentleman, Mr. Burroughs
-and his family, one of whose handsome
-daughters, Cecil, not long deceased,
-married the Hon. Mr. Garneau; the other still
-lives, I think, in Paris (Mrs. Kimber). His son
-John, a very quiet looking gentleman, most
-unexpectedly carried off our great society belle
-at that time, the lovely Leda L., from
-numerous competitors, mother of Madame
-Masson, wife of the late Governor Masson.
-But if I go on to speak of all the pretty
-girls of which we could boast at that time,
-I should go on for ever, so I will present to
-you a slight sketch of some of our most
-prominent men. Of Hon. George Okill Stuart, Sir
-James Stuart, and Hon. Henry Black so
-much has been written that I will only mention
-their names, and give you a slight sketch of
-Mr. Faribault, a most genial gentleman, of
-particularly courteous manners, very literary, of good
-old French family, and universally respected.
-He lived in the old house on whose site is built
-that now occupied by his only child and
-daughter, who married Quebec's famous artist,
-Mr. Hamel. Mr. Hamel had a most particular gift
-for catching likenesses, demonstrated when quite
-a boy. He died unfortunately quite young,
-leaving a son and daughter, who with their
-mother reside in her father's old home.
-
-Charles Gethings, son of Captain James
-Gethings, an Irish officer of the old 100th
-Regiment, was born in Bona Vista, Newfoundland,
-and came to this country with his father. His
-first residence was that occupied formerly by
-Hon. George Primrose. Captain Gethings was
-stricken with paralysis while mounting guard at
-Hope Gate, and died at the fourth house on the
-right hand going up towards the Fabrique. His
-son Charles, after being employed a short time
-in the Commissariat, then with Gillespie, Moffatt
-& Co., Montreal, subsequently in the City Bank
-of Quebec, spent many years as manager of the
-Quebec Bank, Quebec, receiving to the day of
-his death a liberal pension from the Quebec
-Bank. A kind father, a scrupulously upright
-man, the family all honor his memory. He
-sleeps in St. Matthew's churchyard vault.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`NEW YEAR'S DAY, 1840`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- NEW YEAR'S DAY, 1840—IN QUEBEC.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-..
-
- | Old Time, with customary speed,
- | Has passed us on his flying steed,
- | And once again a New Year's day
- | Now greets us smiling bright and gay.
-
-.. vspace:: 1
-
-My young friends, I live so little in the present,
-so much in the past, I hardly know the customs
-of modern society, but I am not so totally out
-of the world as not to be conscious that old-time
-hospitalities on that day are quite relegated
-to the past, and happily the cake and wine
-given once so freely are no longer fashionable,
-for I think now with amaze of our ancient
-customs, and wonder how, having partaken of the
-lavish hospitality of these old days, any of
-our beaux could have got home without the aid
-of Dickens' traditional wheelbarrow. As it may
-amuse you I will just give you a picture of New
-Year's day as kept about forty years ago. Well,
-I cannot state what precise year, but one New
-Year's day the courtyard of the English Cathedral
-was a mass of glare ice, just like a skating
-rink, and no lady could go to service at the
-English cathedral without the assistance of a
-well-shod beau to help her to keep her
-equilibrium, and after service return with me to the
-home of one of our city belles. You will find
-the mother of the family in full dress, seated
-in a comfortable arm chair, a bright fire
-burning in the grate, magazine in hand, to while
-away the hour when the ready attendant will
-usher in the first visitor. A couple of young
-ladies beside her, in full dress, pink, blue or gray
-satin or silk décolleté, a heavy gold chain or
-valuable watch visible attached to a handsome
-gold watch hook on the side of the dress, a
-bouquet holder in one hand, and embroidered
-handkerchief and white kid gloves and numerous
-bracelets, they sit with all the indifference it is
-possible to simulate, till the announcement of
-Mr. A, soon followed by B, C, D, and E, till
-the room is so crowded only the compliments
-of the season can be exchanged before with
-a bow one gentleman gives place to another,
-and so numerous are the visitors in some
-favored houses, perhaps even eighty in a
-day, one of the family surreptitiously takes
-the names for future recognizance, and woe be
-to the unfortunate swain whom forgetfulness or
-too much occupation may have prevented from
-paying his respects; he will surely be left out
-of the list of invites for the next ball. And yet,
-poor unfortunate, he cannot leave the house
-without taking from the hand of the fair lady of
-the house a glass of wine, and that offer he was
-expected to accept perhaps at twenty or thirty
-houses. A year or two later it was considered
-bon ton to offer nothing in the parlor, but an
-obsequious waiter tendered ale, wines and other
-delicacies, catching the departing visitor in a
-parlor near the hall door. This was something
-better. A gentleman could refuse a waiter's
-demand—not so easily a lady's. Still later,
-about fifteen years ago, I well remember the
-Rev. Mr. Hébert, of Kamouraska, asking as a
-personal favor and a mark of respect to himself
-that none of his parishioners should offer
-temptation to the weak in the form of stimulant to
-New Year's visitors, and he very lucidly
-expressed himself in these terms: "You say some
-of you are advised by your physician to take
-wine, well, that is all right, and put your liquor
-beside your pills, and as you do not think it
-necessary to give physic to all your friends
-because the doctor orders it for you, neither do I
-think the tonic that may do you good necessary
-to sow broadcast to those to whom it may prove a
-bitter poison." This was particularly hard
-on a character in the village we had dubbed
-Monseigneur because he served a former
-Bishop, and being wealthy he piqued himself
-on bringing something new for New Year, and
-his last purchase had been a valuable liquor
-stand. He was heart-broken. Being a very pious
-man he was deeply chagrined to think he could
-not display his new purchase, till he was once
-more elevated to the summit of happiness by the
-suggestion that raspberry vinegar, lime juice
-and lemon syrup would look equally well in his
-fine caraffe.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`A POINT OF HONOR`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- A POINT OF HONOR.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-It must be fifty-two years ago fully when I
-first remember the house now occupied by
-Mr. O'Hare as a first-class private boarding house.
-Its rear faces the Citadel, its front looks into
-the barrack yard of the former barracks on
-St. Louis street, now occupied by Major Forrest,
-Well, this house was then occupied, and I think
-owned, by a very dear uncle, the late Charles
-Adolphus H. I say, I think owned, because I
-perfectly remember the rocks in rear being
-blasted to make a stable and the building of an
-extension with vaulting apparatus and so forth
-for the young people's recreation, and this
-extension adjoined the nursery where presided a
-female nurse of wonderful imaginative powers,
-who, when the twilight gathered, and we begged
-for stories, detailed for our benefit horror after
-horror—her only idea of entertainment for young
-children. Well, in the garret of this old house
-my dear grand-uncle found a large ledger, very
-strongly bound. On the outer pages were these
-words: "I implore whoever finds this volume
-to keep it until the year ——, when, if not
-reclaimed, then burn it unless he would incur
-the curse of a dead man, for by that time all
-interested and for whom this book is kept must
-be dead." The leaves were crossed with red
-tape, and every here and there sealed with red
-sealing wax, but by breaking off a bit of wax
-we could read a few words, and though I do
-not remember why, we seemed to associate
-their meaning with some record of the North-West.
-Devoured by curiosity, we young people,
-too afraid of the curse to openly destroy the
-seals, devised every plan to ascertain the
-contents, and one of them was to give the book
-to the younger children of the family as a
-play-thing, hoping they would break them open and
-the contents be exposed; but alas! one day my
-dear grand-uncle came upon the scene, fathomed
-our project, and put a stop for all time to our
-endeavors by putting said ledger in the stove, and
-watched it while it burnt. Was this absolutely
-necessary? Did the most rigid scrupulousness
-demand this? I don't know how others will
-answer. For myself, if I had the book before
-me now I would read its contents, and then
-judge whether I should divulge its secrets or
-not in the interest of the public. What a field
-of conjecture is open here! This book
-contained records of the North-West. Of what?
-Do you remember, my friends, an article that
-appeared in the papers very many years ago,
-saying that a voyageur had discovered
-somewhere in the far north an old white-haired
-gentleman, the Rev. Ebenezer Williams, who
-claimed to be the son of the unfortunate
-Dauphin, son of the decapitated Louis XVI.,
-and whose devoted followers had rescued from
-prison and substituted a pauper, and at great
-personal risk brought the unfortunate boy to
-America and placed him for safe keeping with
-an Indian tribe, and leaving documents to
-prove his identity should there ever appear a
-chance of his claiming the throne. But as years
-rolled on, and no prospect of his being recalled
-to the throne, and his protectors being dead,
-he had been educated as a clergyman and
-served as missionary till his death. In fact, it
-was only when on his deathbed these facts were
-discovered. Had this book—a very closely
-written volume—anything to do with him?
-God only knows!
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`COUNTRY POST OFFICES FORTY AND FIFTY YEARS AGO`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold white-space-pre-line
-
- COUNTRY POST OFFICES FORTY AND
- FIFTY YEARS AGO.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-Our ancestors must have been very honest in
-rural parts, and had unlimited faith in each
-other's integrity, judging by the early post offices.
-The first one I remember was that of Murray
-Bay, when on the arrival of the bag its
-contents were dumped on the floor and every one
-picked out the letters for themselves and friends,
-and enacted the part of voluntary carriers for
-their friends, and very curious were the articles
-then transmitted through the post office, the
-mail bags then doing the present express
-service. A relative told me that he was
-somewhere in the Gaspé district when the carrier
-arrived with the bags he had carried a long
-distance on his back, and using rather hard
-language at the unwonted weight of the bag,
-and curious to see what was the cause of this
-extraordinary weighty mail, when lo! out
-tumbled two immense wild geese, sent as a
-present by the Hon. W. H. to a friend. Fancy
-the dénouement and the wrath of the old
-Scotchman, who had borne the weight on a long
-tramp through a pathway in the forest.
-
-One of the most curious experiences I ever had
-occurred about ten years ago, when I went with
-my family to a rural summer resort. We were
-several miles from the post office, and had very
-steep hills to climb on every side, so I wished to
-kill two birds with one stone, and decided to go
-to the post office after church service. I did so,
-and inquired for a registered letter I expected.
-After a few minutes inquiry the maitre de poste
-said: "Yes, there is a registered letter for you,
-but I can't find it, but it is all right, it is in the
-book." "Well," I said, as the assistant was
-absent and might possibly have said letter in
-charge, "I'll call back after afternoon service." I
-did so, but again the letter could not be found.
-"You'll probably be passing in a week or so,
-won't you call in then, by that time I have no
-doubt we'll have it for you." "But," I said, "that
-won't do. I am a stranger here and need the
-money." "Ah! madame" (they were French
-Canadians), "we are very sorry to inconvenience
-you, and if you will say how much you need
-will be happy to advance you the cash, as by
-our books you are entitled to some." I could
-not feel angry with these simple people, they
-were evidently so honest and true. Yet, as I
-wanted my letter, with home news, as well as
-the cash, I proposed that we should make a
-search in the post office, which was also a shop
-of general merchandise. So, after looking
-through box after box, some suggested looking
-in the cellar, as an ill-fitting trap door with wide
-cracks was directly under the official desk. The
-cellar, however, did not contain the missing
-document, and I was almost in despair of
-recovering for some time my lost property, when
-a happy inspiration came to me, and I inquired
-if they sold envelopes. "Ah! oui, madame,"
-they did, and among the envelopes ready to be
-sold at about a cent a piece was my letter
-containing fifty dollars cash, which, minus my
-persistence, might have found its way into the
-pocket of some honest or dishonest purchaser.
-But all is well that ends well, and I parted from
-my post office friends with expressions of
-mutual regard, and fearing to do them harm,
-believing so fully in their integrity, I never
-spoke of the matter; but when, some years later,
-I heard the Post Office Inspector had made
-radical changes, I thought it was beneficial to
-the general public.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`THE SUBTERRANEAN PASSAGES OF THE CITADEL OF QUEBEC`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold white-space-pre-line
-
- THE SUBTERRANEAN PASSAGES OF
- THE CITADEL, QUEBEC.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-In the year ——, the late lamented Lieut. Fayrer,
-ordinance officer, came to Quebec on a
-tour of inspection as to supplies needed
-(accompanied by his wife, Lizzie Henshawe, a cousin).
-He asked us if we would like to accompany
-him through the underground passages of the
-Citadel, very rarely open to visitors. We
-gratefully accepted the offer, and so well guarded
-was the secrecy of these premises, it was with
-the utmost astonishment the soldiers present
-heard that underneath their Citadel were miles
-of underground passages for transfer in case of
-siege, large rooms for the refuge of women and
-children, and places for the safe depositing of
-treasure. We accompanied him, and I remember
-going down stairs intersected with heavy
-iron doors and through long passages with only
-outlets for muskets to give light, then into
-large damp underground chambers for a safe.
-
-I cannot tell the length we went through of
-dark passage, but it was some considerable
-distance, and the rooms are quite large, I
-suppose capable of each holding fifty people. I
-have heard it said (but can't vouch for the truth),
-that these passages have an outlet on the
-St. Lawrence at one end, and the Martello towers
-at the other. I have no doubt such is the case.
-The underground passages are bombproof, and
-no sound can be heard from them. A soldier
-forgotten there once gave himself up to die,
-until he remembered he might be missed at roll
-call. Such was the case, and his life thus
-saved. The passages are underneath the
-Citadel at Cape Diamond, so called because at one
-time great quantities of an inferior diamond
-were found there. I remember when the Cape
-quite shone with them, and many old people
-have handsome jewellery made from these gems.
-There is one street of houses opposite the Cape
-about fifty-five years ago occupied by the following
-parties: the late Chas. Gethings, the late
-Col. Dyde, John Carleton Fisher, William Patton
-and Col. Gore, father of the present Countess
-of Errol. A small house on the off side,
-occupied by a waiter, is the spot where is the
-present High School of Quebec.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`THE FIRST ST. PATRICK'S SOCIETY IN QUEBEC`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold white-space-pre-line
-
- THE FIRST ST. PATRICK'S SOCIETY
- IN QUEBEC.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-Ireland, so prominent at the present time,
-especially appeals to favorable remembrance of
-all her true people, and it may prove interesting
-to many of my readers to hear something of
-the first St. Patrick's Society ever formed in
-Quebec. I therefore copy for public benefit the
-very interesting account of its first doings, given
-me by an old friend:—
-
-"In the year 1836 a few Irish gentlemen met
-in a small house in the Upper Town market
-place to form a St. Patrick's Society without
-reference to church or creed, but merely for the
-purpose of rendering assistance to any of their
-countrymen who might be requiring help or
-advice. Those gentlemen present on that
-occasion were as follows:—
-
-The Hon. Dominick Daly, then Secretary of
-the Province.
-
-The Hon. George Pemberton, merchant.
-
-The Hon. Mr. Cochrane, brother-in-law to Bishop Mountain.
-
-Sir Henry Caldwell, Baronet.
-
-Geo. Holmes Parke, Esq., merchant.
-
-Charles Gethings, Esq., of the Bank, Quebec.
-
-Edward Bowen, Esq., son of Judge Bowen.
-
-Edward Ryan, Esq., merchant, and Mr. O'Meara, Custom House.
-
-"These gentlemen formed the St. Patrick's
-Society, and the subscription was to be five
-shillings each, annually. They also decided to have
-an annual dinner every anniversary. The
-first president was the Hon. D. Daly, and their
-first dinner was in a building where now stands
-the Russell House. The subscription to the
-dinner was to be six dollars, to make the
-meeting as select as possible, and to be paid out of
-the subscribers' own pockets without reference
-to the annual subscription. The next president
-was the Hon. George Pemberton, and that
-dinner took place in the Albion Hotel in Palace
-street. The third president was Sir H. Caldwell;
-they dined in the same building, the
-Albion. The fourth president was George
-Holmes Parke, Esq., who was annually elected
-president for the succeeding fourteen years in
-succession, and the dinners took place principally
-in the old chateau. To the anniversary
-dinners the presidents of St. George, St. Andrew
-and St. John the Baptist were invited as guests,
-as was also the heads of all military and civil
-departments. On one occasion in the old chateau,
-when over two hundred and fifty guests sat down
-to dinner, it looked well to see Geo. Holmes
-Parke, Esq., with the president of St. George
-on one arm, and the presidents of St. Andrew
-and St. John the Baptist on the other, walking
-up the long room to the head of the dinner
-table. There were a large number of subscribers
-to the Society, and the consequence was,
-although the subscription was small, it was
-enabled to do a multitude of good. The
-Society for many years got on admirably until
-other branches were formed, and then Mr. Parke
-did not take the same interest as he had
-formerly done. Notwithstanding, there never
-was an anniversary dinner given afterwards but
-Mr. Parke was invited to it as a guest, and given
-one of the most prominent seats at the table.
-Charles Gethings, Esq., I believe, followed
-Mr. Parke as president, and after him others whose
-names I have not ascertained. Of all the
-gentlemen that met to form the Society, Mr. Parke is
-the only one living. In 1840 Mr. Parke bought
-a large tract of land on the River St. Charles, a
-short distance from the Dorchester Toll Bridge,
-on which he had built a splendid mansion, and
-ornamented it with thousands of forest trees
-and circular avenues, iron entrance gates, stone
-pillars, etc., also beautiful quickset hedges on
-each side of the avenues kept neatly trimmed.
-In this house, which he called "Ringfield," he
-has lived for the last fifty years, and is still living
-in it. There is a splendid view from Ringfield.
-From St. Foy's church to St. Peter street in
-Lower Town can be seen almost every house in
-Upper Town, St. Roch and St. Sauveur.
-Down the River St. Lawrence can be seen nine
-miles, and from the hall door, before the trees
-grew up, could be counted fourteen parish
-churches, apart from the city or suburbs.
-Mr. Parke came to Canada in 1830, and is now in
-his eighty-fourth year. During his business
-career he did a large business, and in the
-course of twenty-five years he had built for
-himself seventy-six large ships by different
-ship builders, which cost and was paid for out
-of his office over three million of dollars, apart
-from his other business." This gentlemen is
-father of the present popular physician,
-Dr. Parke. Mr. Lemoine in his "Tourist's Note
-Book" says: "A very remarkable vestige of
-French domination exists behind the villa of
-Mr. Parke, a circular field house, hence the name
-Ringfield, covering about twelve acres, with an
-earthwork once about twenty feet high to
-the east, to shield its inmates from the shot of
-Wolfe's fleet lying at the entrance of the
-St. Charles below Quebec."
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`SILLERY CHURCH`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold white-space-pre-line
-
- SILLERY CHURCH—THE PARSONAGE,
- ONE TIME A RESIDENCE OF
- SIR E. R. CARON.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-Sillery Church, beautifully situated above
-Sillery Cove (one of the best-known lumber
-coves near Quebec), has for its parishioners
-many families of note, foremost amongst whom
-were the Sharples family, well known for their
-Catholic piety and their active benevolence.
-
-At the time I first knew Sillery Church, its
-pastor was the Rev. George Drolet, a very
-fervent, energetic priest, who I fear lost his
-health in part from over zeal in the discharge of
-his arduous duties. His people being mixed
-English and French, I have known him go through
-the ritual of two masses, preach two sermons
-one in French and one in English (fasting)
-though frequently warned against such over-exertion.
-
-He was stricken with paralysis some years
-ago, and though comparatively a young man,
-is quite debarred now from all church services.
-
-He exercised considerable influence amongst
-his parishioners, many of them being very
-difficult to deal with—a floating population
-of sailors; but his genial manner and tact
-carried him through many difficulties. I
-cannot give a better illustration of that same tact
-than by narrating a fact that occurred full
-thirty years ago. At the time of the great
-*Corrigan Murder* (as it was called)—the
-outcome of a fight between Orangemen and
-R. C. Irishmen—the feud ran so high, the
-Bishop of Quebec, seeing how impossible it
-would be for an Irish priest to abstain from
-being drawn into the vortex of party strife,
-decided on sending a French-Canadian
-priest, who would have no national feeling in
-the matter. The matter was discussed, but
-it was supposed to be such a post of danger,
-even for a priest, the Bishop decided he would
-ask for a volunteer instead of issuing a
-command to one of his clergy. All eyes turned
-to the Rev. Mr. Drolet as *the one* suited; he
-had been junior priest in St. Patrick's Church
-in Quebec, was thoroughly acquainted with
-the character of the Irish people, and much
-beloved by them. He offered his services,
-which were at once accepted; but some of
-his confrères felt badly over the matter and
-remonstrated: "You must remember, my
-dear sir, that you have a mother and sisters
-dependent on you for a home, and you hold
-your life in your hand, if you go to ——
-in the present state of feeling, as the Irish
-say they will not have a French-Canadian
-priest." "I am not afraid," was the Rev. Mr. D.'s
-rejoinder; he went, to find the Presbytery
-closed, the Parish Church nailed up, and a
-very threatening crowd assembled. He could
-do nothing that day, so went to a neighboring
-parish to say his morning mass. The next day
-the same scene. Undaunted he began to talk,
-said he always thought an Irishman liked fair
-play, and thought he might ask for a few
-minutes hearing—he, one man against hundreds.
-"Oh! yes," they said, ashamed. "We'll
-let you talk, but remember we don't want to
-insult your reverence, but we won't have a
-French-Canadian over us." "Well, answer me
-one question, I like to know to whom I am
-talking: what is your name, and in what part
-of Ireland were you born?" "Oh, sir, I was
-not born in Ireland, but my grandfather and
-grandmother came from the Old country." "And
-you? and you?" The same answer, not
-one perhaps in forty were born in Ireland, all
-really by birth Canadians, and Mr. D. said,
-"You say you won't have me because I am a
-French-Canadian, my name is so, but, as my
-grandmother was Irish, I consider myself as
-Irish as any of you." His wit carried the day.
-He resided there for many years, and was so well
-liked that between thirty and forty of his
-parishioners accompanied him to do him
-honor, when he was given the pastorate of
-St. Michel, and I shall never forget the sight
-of a crowded steamboat, half of the people in
-tears as they went to see him off, and land him
-at Sillery, to which he had been promoted—the
-most desirable rectorship, I fancy, in the
-R. C. gift, near Quebec; but which he was
-to enjoy only a few years.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`ST. MATTHEW'S CHAPEL`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- ST. MATTHEW'S CHAPEL.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-A beautiful little church on the site of the
-old burying ground, on St. John street, Quebec,
-built by that well-known philanthropist,
-Matthew Hale, Esq., and very much enlarged and
-beautified by the various members of the
-Hamilton family with their well-known liberality.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`BISHOP HAMILTON`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- BISHOP HAMILTON.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-About thirty years ago, there arrived fresh
-from college a newly-ordained clergyman of
-the Church of England. So youthful looking,
-so mild in character, it appeared at first as if
-he would hardly yet be fitted for the onerous
-position of pastor, but he was appointed.
-Family influence and money soon caused
-St. Matthew's to be most largely patronized,
-also free seats. In the meantime our young
-clergyman pursued his unobtrusive way. Daily
-he might be seen in the poorest and least
-frequented streets of the city, driving a little
-waggonette, evidently constructed to order from
-its capacity for holding comforts for his poor
-people. A thoroughly earnest, fervently pious
-man, our young clergyman, before many years,
-displayed his innate force of character, acquired
-great influence, and we know him now as
-Charles Hamilton, Bishop of Ontario.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`ST. PATRICK'S CEMETERY`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- ST. PATRICK'S CEMETERY, QUEBEC.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-.. class:: center white-space-pre-line
-
- Formerly Woodfield, the residence of the late
- James Gibb, Esq., previously the residence of
- Chas. Sheppard, Esq.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-As I tread the sod of this cemetery what a
-host of memories are evoked. Here was the
-handsome residence of Chas. Sheppard,
-formerly large timber merchant of Quebec, one of
-whose sons, Mansfield Sheppard, Esq., and his
-daughter, Mrs. Watt, I think still survive! This
-pleasant home was burnt down, the family having
-hardly time to escape, and many cherished and
-valuable mementoes of the past perished with
-it. It was purchased by James Gibb, Esq., as
-a homestead, and so occupied for many years;
-and who in the flush of enjoyment at the many
-pleasant entertainments given by the Gibb
-family would have foreseen the day when many
-of those dancing and promenading through
-those beautiful grounds would be treading over
-perhaps the very spot may be their own resting
-place in the quiet grave. Such is life. This
-cemetery, now of great beauty from its natural
-characteristics, is about two miles from Quebec.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`MOUNT HERMON CEMETERY`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- MOUNT HERMON CEMETERY,
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-About three miles from the city of Quebec, is
-most beautifully situated on the St. Louis road
-its grounds at the back overlooking the St. Lawrence.
-
-Amongst other noted monuments here is the
-slab that indicates the last resting place of the
-young son of Sir Edmund Head, who was accidentally
-drowned in the St. Lawrence river, and
-buried here in Mr. Price's lot. The Price family
-had long occupied a high position in Quebec
-society, and been intimate with the families of
-several of the governors. I see they had the
-honor of a visit from the Prince on his late trip
-to Quebec, who lunched with them.
-
-I will attempt no further description of old
-Quebec, Mr. Le Moine has too thoroughly exhausted
-the subject, but confine myself to a description
-of people and incidents illustrative of the
-to me good old times. Perhaps the beauty of the
-prospective is enhanced by the distance, but to
-those who have passed the meridian of life the
-past must ever be dearer than the present, for it
-alone is peopled with so many of the loved we
-look for in vain now. So many of my once
-dear associates have gone on before me, I
-often ponder on what must be the feelings of
-one living to a hundred years, who stands
-totally alone without one he has known in his
-earlier days to greet him.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`IN MEMORIAM`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- IN MEMORIAM.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-.. class:: center white-space-pre-line
-
- To my darling husband on the anniversary of
- his death—September the 14th, 1889.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-..
-
- | A year has come and gone since, by God's Holy will
- | You left me, husband darling, and I still
- | Sorrow as in the earlier days, and grieve
- | As only those do who also are bereaved
- | Of one so fondly loved, whose life for years so
- | closely 'twined together
- | It seemed that death itself could never sever
- | The bonds, so firmly bound, in sickness or in health
- | Times of disaster, poverty or wealth,
- | The love which warmer grew with length of year.
- | It seems not possible you're gone, I here;
- | Be still my heart, 'tis only for a time.
- | God's will be done, and humbly mine
- | Must bow to His who doeth all things well.
- | Perchance you hear me, darling; who can tell
- | What line divides us? Thought may meet thought
- | On the high shore you stand,
- | And waft a loving greeting to the spirit land.
- | So I'll not grieve you with my helpless sorrow.
- | But happily look toward that glad to-morrow
- | Will surely reunite us on that Heavenly shore.
- | The time will come, we'll meet and part no more.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`NOVEMBER`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- NOVEMBER.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-..
-
- | When you speak of drear November,
- | Of its days of rain and gloom,
- | You should also ere remember
- | It's the advent very soon
- | Of the bright month of December,
- | With its Christmas joys and cheer.
- | That its family rejoicings,
- | And its greetings of New Year,
- | Eclipse all previous darkness,
- | As the dark before the dawn;
- | Ignoring all the dangers,
- | That yet before us yawn.
- | For happily so the future
- | Is hidden from our gaze,
- | We only blindly, step by step,
- | Tread the ever-tangled maze
- | That encircles all our future,
- | And no one can design
- | The pathway to be trodden
- | By either yours or mine.
- | So implicitly we'll leave
- | Our Heavenly Guide to say
- | The road that we will travel
- | And journey day by day,
- | Assured He will truly guide us,
- | If we will only follow,
- | And land us safely on the shore,
- | When some assured to-morrow
- | Will join the past, and safe return
- | All those for whom we sorrow.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`TO THE OYSTER`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- TO THE OYSTER.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-..
-
- | How I love you! toothsome oyster.
- | Because at hunger's call
- | You are at all times ready
- | To fill our empty maw.
-
- | But still more do I love you
- | For the odor that you waft
- | Of seaside and sea-air you bring
- | With memories of the past.
-
- | The past whene'er your advent,
- | In autumn's wintry weather,
- | Was grandly hailed on every side,
- | And brought all friends together.
-
- | When seated at a well-spread board,
- | Full quite a score and more
- | Of neighbors met to eat the food
- | All must pronounce so very good.
-
- | So whether hot, or whether cold,
- | In stew, or soup, or pie,
- | We sing your praise, for very few
- | Your excellence can deny.
-
-
-
-
-
-.. vspace:: 4
-
-.. _`LIST OF NEW SUBSCRIBERS`:
-
-.. class:: center large bold
-
- LIST OF NEW SUBSCRIBERS.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-.. class:: center
-
- QUEBEC.
-
-.. vspace:: 1
-
-.. class:: noindent white-space-pre-line
-
-Lady Stuart.
-Comte de Turenne.
-\H. \H. Sewell.
-Mrs. \W. Rae.
-\A. \F. Hunt.
-James Fatton.
-\J. Hamilton.
-\J. \V. Welch.
-\H. \G. Beemer.
-\E. \J. Price.
-Hon. Mr. Price.
-\P. \P. Hall.
-\W. \A. Russell, 2 copies.
-\C. \S. Parke, M.D.
-\H. \M. Michaels, Bk. B. N. A.
-Arch. Campbell.
-\J. \H. Burroughs.
-Louis G. Fiset.
-Hon. Judge F. Andrews.
-\E. \N. Chinic.
-George Vanfelsen.
-Henry Russell, M.D.
-Robert Mitchell.
-\E. \A. Panet, N. P., St. Raymond.
-Mrs. Astell Drayner.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-.. class:: center
-
- MONTREAL.
-
-.. vspace:: 1
-
-.. class:: noindent white-space-pre-line
-
-Sir William Dawson.
-\P. \B. Casgrain.
-Somerville Weir.
-\W. Grant Stuart, M.D.
-\A. Primeau.
-Mrs. R. M. Harrison.
-Mrs. Trotter.
-John Fair.
-\E. Pipon, Bk. of Montreal
-\W. Weir.
-Alfred Thibaudeau.
-\J. Cradock Simpson.
-Strachan Bethune.
-Benj. Hart.
-\L. \W. Marchand.
-\P. \H. \M. Sommerville, Bk. B. N. A.
-\W. Godfrey, Bk. B. N. A.
-Madame DesRivières, Malmaison.
-\D. McCord.
-\A. Sicotte.
-David Denne.
-\W. \G. LeMesurier.
-\H. \A. Hutchins.
-\E. \B. Greenshields.
-Judge Baby.
-\B. \D. McConnell.
-Norman S. Leslie.
-Chs. Alexander.
-Louis Barbeau,
-Hon. \G. \H. Drummond.
-Samuel \I. Grant.
-Judge Dorion.
-Judge Bosse.
-
-.. vspace:: 2
-
-.. class:: center
-
- OTTAWA.
-
-.. vspace:: 1
-
-.. class:: noindent white-space-pre-line
-
-John D. Arnoldi.
-Parliamentary Library, 2 copies.
-Norman Bethune.
-\N. \H. Noel, Quebec Bank.
-\S. Wilmot, Senate.
-\S. Lelièvre.
-Judge Fournier.
-Sir \A. Caron.
-Lt. Col. Macpherson.
-Col. Tanet.
-\E. Knight, Militia Dept.
-\C.\ H. O'Meara.
-\M. Harrison.
-\W. Himsworth, Inland Revenue.
-Geo. Duval, High Court of Justice.
-\S. Boucher.
-Robt. Cassels.
-\W. \P. Anderson, Union Bk.
-Jas. Adamson, Senate.
-
-.. vspace:: 6
-
-.. pgfooter::
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