the work
of years to convert such settlers into good practical farmers. In such
cases, how can a fair yield be extracted from land ignorantly
cultivated? But I will venture to affirm, that wherever good farming is
in practice, as good an average yield will be obtained, as in any
country in the world.

"The following average of ten years for the Huron tract, has been
published:--Wheat, 25 bushels; barley, 30 bushels; oats, 40 bushels;
rye, 30 bushels; potatoes, 250 bushels per acre. Swedish turnips,
mangel-wurzel, and other roots of a similar kind, are not yet
sufficiently cultivated, to enable an average yield to be given; but it
may very safely be said, that, with similar care, culture, and
attention, the produce will not be less per acre than in England.
Indeed, it may be said with truth to apply to every grain except beans,
which do not thrive well in the Canadian climate."

CHAPTER XXI.

THE KING PROCLAIMED IN THE BUSH. -- FETE AND BALL IN THE EVENING. -- MY
YANKEE FELLOW-TRAVELLER. -- AWFUL STORM. -- MY LONELY JOURNEY. --
MAGICAL EFFECT OF A NAME.

I WAS busy in the storehouse one afternoon, when Mr. Prior entered with
a newspaper in his hand, which he had just received from the old
country.

"I see by this paper, Strickland, that George IV. is dead; and that his
Majesty King William IV. has been proclaimed. Now, I think, we must
give the workmen a holiday on this memorable occasion."

"In what manner do you intend to celebrate the day?" was my rejoinder.

"I have been thinking," he replied, "of making a little fete, and
inviting all the settlers within reach to assemble on the Button-wood
Flats. We will have some refreshments served round; and if the day is
fine, I have no doubt we shall enjoy ourselves much."

Due notice having been given, upon the appointed day every-one within
ten miles assembled on the Flats, dressed in their best attire; and
ready to show their loyalty in any way Mr. Prior might think proper to
recommend.

As soon as the squire made his appearance, he ascended a large stump;
and, in a patriotic and loyal speech, informed us "that he had called
this meeting to hear him proclaim his most gracious Majesty King
William IV."

He then read the proclamation, which was received with nine rounds of
British cheers. Our party then formed a large circle by joining hands;
and sang the national anthem, accompanied by the Goderich band, which
was composed of two fiddles and a tambourine.