and the means resorted to by the settlers. At present
there are only five roads in the whole Province; three of which you have
seen, as they lead from this city in different directions; the one to
St. John; also, that passing our door to Quebec; and the third which I
shewed you last week as leading to Miramichi. The fourth leads to St.
Andrews, a small seaport in the south-west; while the fifth leads to
Halifax." "Pardon me, Your Excellency, I could not help observing that
the condition of these roads pay small tribute to McAdam, or Telford,
being a rapid and sudden succession of up hill and down dale." "One
would need a vigorous constitution," returned Sir Howard, "to make a
practical test. People do not have much traffic upon these roads, from
the fact that the settlements are more numerous along the river, which
holds out more advantages."
"Papa," exclaimed Sir Howard's favourite daughter, "How much I should
like to accompany you on an expedition through the forests of New
Brunswick." "Perhaps you may, when the roads are more accessible, when
there will be established comfortable inns where one can rest and be
refreshed. None will press me to give any further report of the country,
when I make a guarantee to do so at some time in the future, when there
will be, I trust, good progress made."
"Many thanks, Your Excellency," said Mr. Howe, in response to Sir
Howard, and, "in behalf of the company, may I express a hope that your
wish be realized in the future of New Brunswick's history. May this
province yet rise in commercial prosperity and national wealth, and may
New Brunswick's sons yet assume their proud position as Governors of the
province." "Mr. Howe is growing eloquent," remarked Lady Rosamond, to
Mr. Trevelyan.--"A conspiracy on foot," exclaimed Miss Douglas, glancing
towards Lady Rosamond. "Now Mr. Trevelyan will play his part," said
Captain Douglas, with mock solemnity.
The young Lieutenant selected a passage from "Cymbeline," receiving the
gratitude and applause of the ladies, to whose repeated entreaties he
also read an extract from "King Lear," commencing with the line "No, I
will be the pattern of all patience." Guy Trevelyan's voice was full,
soft and musical, having the power of soothing the listener; but when
required for dramatic readings, could command a versatility that was
surprising. Miss Douglas archly proposed to Lady Douglas her wish to
join in a game of whist. Thus engaged, the remainder
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