ient to purchase a tract of land upon the line, with seed and
implements to enable them to get a first crop when the period of
service had expired.'[6]

To this Grey replied that while no convicts would be sent unless
definitely asked for by a colonial government, in that event a moderate
number would be provided 'without any charge for their custody and
subsistence to the province which may have applied for them.' After
returning to Nova Scotia Howe defended his proposal, with the express
proviso that the safeguards were sufficiently strict; but the
experience of other countries tends to show that the idea was
dangerous, and that Nova Scotia did well not to act on it.

On his return Howe was at the height of his fame. His mission had been
successful beyond the dreams of the most sanguine. His quick dramatic
temper thrilled to the core at his reception. 'The father, in classic
story, whose three sons had gained three Olympic prizes in the same
day, felt it was time to die. But, {111} having gained the confidence
of three noble provinces, I feel it is time to live.'

'It is clear that, unless done by the government, these great railways
cannot be done at all. Even if companies could make them, they would
cost fourteen millions instead of seven. But, sir, what is a
government for, if it is not to take the lead in noble enterprises; to
stimulate industry; to elevate and guide the public mind? You seat
eight or nine men on red cushions or gilded chairs, with nothing to do
but pocket their salaries, and call that a government. To such a
pageant I have no desire to belong. Those who aspire to govern others
should neither be afraid of the saddle by day nor of the lamp by night.
In advance of the general intelligence, they should lead the way to
improvement and prosperity. I would rather assume the staff of Moses
and struggle with the perils of the wilderness and the waywardness of
the multitude than be a golden calf, elevated in gorgeous
inactivity--the object of a worship which debased.'[7]

There were still difficulties to overcome. New Brunswick, though
willing to co-operate in his plan, was much more eager for the {112}
Portland line, which would run through her settled southern portion and
link it with her natural market and base of supplies in the United
States. During Howe's absence she had partially committed herself to
the construction of such a line by a private company, but Howe was soon
able to con