duties of his station in this province.

"Gentlemen of the House of Assembly,

"I have no doubt but that, with me, you are convinced of the
necessity of a regular system of military instruction to the
militia of this province;--on this salutary precaution, in the
event of a war, our future safety will greatly depend, and I
doubt not but that you will cheerfully lend your aid, to
enable me to defray the expense of carrying into effect a
measure so conducive to our security and defence.

"I have ordered the public accounts to be laid before you, and
have no doubt but that you will consider them with that
attention which the nature of the subject may require.

"Honorable Gentlemen of the Legislative Council and Gentlemen
of the House of Assembly,

"I have, without reserve, communicated to you what has
occurred to me on the existing circumstances of this province.
We wish and hope for peace, but it is nevertheless our duty to
be prepared for war.

"The task imposed on you, on the present occasion, is arduous;
this task, however, I hope and trust, laying aside every
consideration but that of the public good, you will perform
with that firmness, discretion, and promptitude, which a
regard to yourselves, your families, your country, and your
king, call for at your hands.

"As for myself, it shall be my utmost endeavour to co-operate
with you in promoting such measures as may best contribute to
the security and to the prosperity of this province."

The addresses of the provincial parliament in reply were highly
satisfactory, and in answer Major-General Brock observed:

"The congratulations offered upon my appointment to the
honorable station I hold in this province, and the confidence
you so early repose in me, are, be assured, received with
pride and heartfelt satisfaction.

"Impressed with the assurance of your support, I feel a most
perfect reliance that the exertions of this province will be
found equal to meet every emergency of this important crisis."

* * * * *

The conclusion of the following letter is descriptive of Major-General
Brock's views and intentions in the probable event of a war ensuing
between Great Britain and the United States, and which a few months
afterwards he carried into effect with a success that must have exceeded
his most san