he questions put to him amounted to a practical contempt of
the Committee. "I do not answer that question."--"I have no answer to
give."--"I refer you to the Constitutional Act."--"I cannot answer that
question, owing to its assumptions, which I do not admit." Such are a
few of his replies. The whole of his examination is worth reading, as
exemplifying how far an intelligent man will sometimes permit bigotry
and intolerance to gain possession of his soul. Indeed, the evidence of
all the witnesses may be read with profit by those who wish to gain a
full insight into the state of the Province at that time, and to fully
appreciate the necessity which existed for a change in the mode of
conducting public affairs.

The report, though presented to the Assembly as above intimated, does
not appear to have been formally adopted during the session, but the
passing of the order for the printing of it, together with two thousand
extra copies, amounted to a practical adoption, and was probably so
considered. The Committee could easily have secured its adoption, for
the vote on the Speakership had not fully represented the strength of
the Opposition, who on several questions were able to command a majority
of from ten to eleven. But the fact was again brought vividly home to
the Reform party that mere success at the polls had availed them little.
Notwithstanding the numerical minority of the official party in the
Assembly, they continued to exercise supreme power, and to strengthen
themselves by the constant dispensing of patronage. They controlled the
Legislative Council, and could thus control the legislative powers of
the Assembly, independently of any question of the numerical strength or
weakness of the Opposition in that House. The Legislative Council now
assumed an attitude of determined antagonism to the popular voice, and
would entertain no legislation of a liberal character. The vivid
realization of these facts gave a keen edge to the remarks on
Responsible Government in the Grievance Committee's Report. An Address
setting forth these various discouragements was forwarded to His Majesty
by the Assembly. The language was respectful but firm, and it was hinted
that, if a remedy were not provided, resort would have to be had to the
extreme measure of withholding the usual supplies. Earnest petitions to
His Majesty were at the same time sent across the Atlantic from some of
the rural districts, praying that the principles of the