Thomas Talbot Papers

The Talbot papers.




THE
A. H. U. COLQUHOUN

LIBRARY
OF CANADIAN HISTORY




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FROM THE TRANSACTIONS OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

THIRD SERIES 1907-1908

VOLUME 1 SECTION II.

ENGLISH LITERATURE, HISTORY AND ALLIED SUBJECTS.



II. The Talbot Papers. Edited, with Preface, Intro-
duction and some Annotations.



By
JAMES H. COYNE, M.A.



OTTAWA
PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR BY THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

1908




THE HONOURABLE THOMAS TALBOT

FOUNDER OF THE TALBOT SETTLEMENT
From the Original Water-Colour in the Possession of Mrs. Macbeth.






SECTION II., 1907. [ 15] TRANS. R. S. C.

II. The Talbot Papers. Edited, with Preface, Introduction and
some Annotations.

By JAMES H. COYNE, M.A.

(Read May 15, 1907.)

PAET I.

PREFATORY.

The life of Colonel the Honorable Thomas Talbot extended from
1771 to 1853. He left behind him a considerable number of letters
and other MSS. and printed papers. These had been preserved for
special reasons, relating to the subject matter and their personal inter-
est. A few of the letters were from friends and relatives in the old
country; others from distinguished Upper Canadians and British offi-
cers serving in the province. He had kept copies of population, settle-
ment and militia returns, as well as drafts or copies of important letters
and memorials sent by him to the head of the Provincial Government,
and a few newspapers and political fly-sheets containing personal refer-
ences, or connected with the war of 1812 or other important events.

Among his correspondents were two Lieutenant-Governors, Francis
Gore and Sir Peregrine Maitland ; their secretaries, Halton and Hillier ;
Generals Sir Isaac Brock, Sir Roger Sheaffe and Henry Procter, Captain
James Brock, Chief Justice Scott, Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Clark,
Lieutenant-Colonel Eobert jSTichol, Quarter-Master General of Militia
during the war; Major Glegg, Attorney- General Macdonnell, Dr. John
Eolph, Colonel Mahlon Burwell, Hon. William Allan, Hon. W. H.
Merritt, and others of more or less note.

The earliest letter was written in 1806 by Colonel James Archibald
Stuart-Wortley-Mackenzie, M.P. for Bossiney, afterward first Baron
Wharncliffe of Wortley. The writer had served with Talbot at Quebec
fifteen years before; and the two men were on terms of affectionate
intimacy. The letter ,is remarkable as a graphic description of
English feeling during that doleful year. Napoleon's star was near its
zenith, the Austrian and Prussian capitals had been entered in triumph
by his victorious hosts, all Europe was prostrate at his feet, while in
England, Pitt and Fox, the trusted leaders of both the great parties,
had passed away within a twelvemonth amid the lamentations of the
whole British people.

When Talbot retired from the army in 1800, he was already a wel]
known figure in the highest social circles, both in the British Isles and



16

in North America. He had served on the staff of the Marquis of Buck-
ingham, Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland, and on that of Lieutenant-Governor
Simcoe in Upper Canada. He had spent a year in garrison at Quebec,
when the leader of society was his friend, His Royal Highness, Edward,
Duke of Kent. He had hob-nobbed with lords and ladies of high degree
at the Court of St. James. Princes of the blood were his boon com-
panions. Ever since the Conquest, the Talbots had been influential at
court both in London and in Dublin. They had distinguished them-
selves in many fields. The Talbots of Malahide had been, from the
days of Strongbow, conspicuous among the great families of Ireland.
Colonel Talbot's sale of his commission before he had completed his
thirtieth year, and his decision to establish a settlement in the woods
on the shore of Lake Erie, was naturally the sensation of the day. His
youth and personality, his high social position and connections, the
sudden abandonment of a creditable and promising career, the many
purmises as to the reasons which influenced him to exchange it for a
hermit life in the American wilderness, made him at once a romantic
personage. The interest was heightened by reports which from time
to time reached the imperial and provincial capitals. His eccentricities
of dress, employment and conduct, the curious collection of log-huts
which grew up round him at Port Talbot, and which he was prone to
dignify jocosely with the title of the Castle of Malahide, the semi-
royal state and exclusiveness which he maintained amidst sometimes
sordid surroundings, the visits of provincial magnates, and eminent
noblemen and gentry from the home-land, were never failing themes
for gossip in palace and cabin. On the other hand, in his winter visits
to the provincial capital at Y,ork, divesting himself of his far-famed
sheep-skin coat and cap, and broad-striped trousers of red and black
homespun, he resumed with ease at the gubernatorial court of Mrs. Gore
or the Lady Sarah Maitland the cocked hat, ruffled shirt, silk stockings
and other paraphernalia, together with the formal airs, old-world man-
ners and courtly speech of the eighteenth century gallant.

But, aristocrat as he was, and with all his eccentricities, there was
a practical side to Talbot's character, and he looked forward as well
as backward. His importance as one of the makers of Canada is based
upon the plan of settlement which he formed, or rather adopted, and
which he continued to carry out with characteristic determination for
nearly half a century. As Founder of the Talbot Settlement, he
attached his name to one of the richest and most prosperous agricul-
tural regions in the world, extending from Long Point to the Detroit
River. The Talbot Road is the longest and was for many years the



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 17

best, as it is still one of the best, in the province. The prosperity
of the Talbot settlers was systematically and extensively advertized.
The government made use of it for the purpose of attracting immigrants
to all parts of the province. Throughout Upper Canada the Settlement
was held up as a model for imitation.

During the war of 1812, Talbot occupied a position of responsibility
in the Upper Canada militia as Colonel commanding the London and
Western Districts. This brought him once more into close contact
with military and naval officers. The settlers, then fortunately few
in number, suffered at the hands of successive bands of raiders from the
States, who plundered them of everything portable, and destroyed what
they could not carry away. The progress of settlement was absolutely
stopped by the war. With peace came progress and prosperity. Immi-
grants found themselves barred from entrance into Dunwich and Aid-
borough by Colonel Talbot, who claimed these townships as his reserves.
In other townships the usual fees were not exacted, and officials com-
plained loudly of the discrimination in the Colonel's favour. Contro-
versy with the Executive , Council ended in an appeal by Talbot to the
Home Government. He was sustained, and thenceforward for many
years he was practically uncontrolled in the work of settlement. 1

The political campaign of 1832-1833 was largely a war of petitions.
Talbof s great meeting at St. Thomas was an important influence in
this connection, both in the province and in England. A large and
important part of the Talbot Papers consists of material relating to
this meeting.

Owing to Colonel Talbof s prominence in so many ways, romantic
and practical, he was and must always remain a personage of conse-
quence in our history.

Anything, therefore that throws light upon his history, character
and motives, upon hi's connection with settlement, or upon his rela-
tion to the military and political events which have been mentioned,

1 The original arrangement between the provincial authorities and Talbot
related solely to the settlement of Dunwich, the township of Aldborough
being later added to the reserve set apart for his benefit. These townships
may therefore be said to have formed the original Talbot , Settlement. But
in 1811 and later, under new arrangements, he undertook the superintendence
of the settlement of all the townships along the Talbot Road properly so-
called, from Long Point to the Detroit River, as well as of others along the
River Thames. References to the Talbot Settlement during the first half of
the last century apply almost exclusively not to the original townships, the
settlement of which was obstructed by Colonel Talbot, but to the other town-
ships, which prospered greatly.

Sec. II., 1907. 2.



18 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

possesses a distinct historical value. The Talbot Papers are, therefore,
their own excuse for the demand they make upon public attention.

Among the interesting points of major or minor importance con-
nected with the papers published, attention may be properly directed to
the following:

(a) The grant made in 1475 by King Edward; IV to the then
'Thomas Talbot, Esquire, of Malahide, is interesting not only from its
intrinsic importance, but also on account of its apparent relation to
Colonel Talbot's motives in establishing his settlement. As far as the
changed conditions would permit, he probably desired to acquire in the
new world dignities, privileges and estates worthy to be compared with
those of his 15th century ancestor. The water-mark of his copy (1820)
would indicate that he procured it from Dublin about the time when
lie sent in his report to the Provincial Executive Council, showing that
lie had completed the settlement in Dvmwich and Aldborough, according
to the terms claimed by him to have been agreed upon in 1803. Like
his favoured fifteenth century ancestor, he too received a grant from
the Crown of a tract of land equal to a petty principality. And if the
older manor of Malahide was a sort of palatinate, was- not the younger
Thomas Talbot also virtually exercising the authority of a king over
a far more extensive region?

(&) The legend current for nearly a century as to Talbot's aversion
to female domestics is shown to be in opposition to the facts down to
the year 1809, Talbot's account book containing the accounts of at
least four who served him in that capacity as well as the terms of
agreement it is possible that the difficulty which, according to the
Due de Rochefoucauld-Liancourt, Simcoe had found insuperable at
Niagara, had been experienced at Port Talbot, and that Talbot also
had found it necessary to employ only men servants if he desired con-
tinuity of service. Cecil Rhodes is another instance of a prominent
colonial who limited his household in the same way, and perhaps for
ihe same reason.

(c) In the Sessional Papers of Upper Canada for 1836, the official
relations existing between Talbot and the Executive Council of the
province are fully set forth. In the papers now published, fresh light
is thrown upon their controversies.

(rf) A large number of the papers now presented relate to the
war of 1812-1815. These furnish many details not otherwise available,
relating to the operations of the war. Those dealing with Simon
Zelotes Watson enable us to understand to a certain extent the personal






[COINE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 19

grievances which induced him to join the invading army in 1812, and
to take an active part in raiding the Talbot Settlement.

(e) The papers include what is probably the last letter written
by Attorney-General Macdonnell, who fell at Queenston Heights. It
bears date the day before the battle.

(/) They contain interesting details relating to Gore, Maitland,
Brock, Sheaffe, Glegg, Eolph, Mchol and Procter, which enable us
better to appreciate their varied qualities and characteristics.

(g) The frank references to Talbot's convivial habits by the Lieu-
tenant-Governors, Nichol, etc., show that his weaknesses were well-known
to intimate friends in high station long before Mrs. Jameson referred
to them in her book.

(h) The general tone of Talbot's correspondence reveals his char-
acter, which, notwithstanding his habits, eccentricities and prejudices,
has some admirable features. Altogether he remains one of the most
striking and picturesque figures among the makers of Upper Canada.

(i) It has been deemed advisable to add to the present publication,
Talbot's letter written from Port Stanley in 1801 to the Duke of Cum-
berland, and the Duke of Kent's forwarding this to the Colonial Office,
and also a collection of letters in the Crown Lands Department,
Toronto, from Talbot to the then Commissioner of Crown Lands, the
Honorable Peter Eobinson, as well afs a number of letters written by
him to the Honorable William Allan. The Robinson letters were
brought to light some years ago by the late Mrs. Kate Westlake Yeigh,
and were published in part in St. Thomas newspapers. For permission
to publish the Allan letters, I have to thank Mr. Allan Cassells, of
Toronto. These letters are all of sufficient value to justify their in-
clusion in this publication.

(Jc) The report of the preliminary meeting for the establishment
of the Talbot Anniversary is now published for the first time from the
Archives at Ottawa. The minutes bear the impress of John Rolph's
mind and hand, and are amusing as well as interesting. The papers
relating to the establishment of the anniversary, published in Edward
Ermatinger's " Life of Colonel Talbot," and reprinted by Judge Erma-
tinger in " The Talbot Regime," animadvert upon Colonel Burwell's
objections to the premature canonization of his patron. It is possible
that some solid basis for his objections may be found in the equivocal
statement in the minutes now published : " every individual returned
to his family without one exception to correct conduct and sobriety. It
is indeed an observation, which can be applied to few public dinners
of the above description as numerously attended." Of evil results fronf
such gatherings Colonel Burwell was not unreasonably apprehensive.



20 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

In the Introduction considerable space has been given to the
negotiations which led up to the original arrangement with Talbot for
the settlement of Dunwich and Aldborough, and to the subsequent dis-
putes between him and the Executive Council over its interpretation.

For permission to publish the Talbot Papers acknowledgments are
due to His Honor Judge Macbeth, who some years ago entrusted them
to the editor, with authority to publish them in his discretion. Under
this authority the editor has from time to time permitted portions to
appear in the newspaper press and elsewhere.

It has been thought desirable to print the papers now as a collection.
This will facilitate their citation, and i's warranted by the importance
of Colonel Talbot as a historical personage and by their inherent interest.
Unless otherwise intimated, all the documents are from the collection
left by Talbot.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 21

INTRODUCTION.

The Honorable Thomas Talbot, Founder of The Talbot Settlement.

I.

THE TALBOTS OF MALAHIDE.

Malahide Castle is nine miles from Dublin. Its situation, com-
manding an excellent view of the town and bay of the same name, and
the Islands of Ireland's Eye and Lambey; its Gothic porch and lofty
circular towers; its carved oak ceilings and wainscottings ; its Vandyke
portraits, its altar-piece by Diirer, once the property of Queen Mary;
and the remains of its ancient church, for ages the place of burial of
the proprietors of the Castle; are strong attractions for the tourist and
the artist.

The lordship of Malahide has remained in the Talbot family in
the male heirs and name of the original grantee for more than seven
centuries. One of William the Conqueror's barons was a Richard
de Talbot, and it is claimed that his estates antedated the conquest
It was his grandson, Richard de Talbot, who, accompanying Henry II
to Ireland, received from him a grant of the barony and castle of Mala-
hide in the year 1174. Three centuries later, in 1475, King Edward IV
granted and confirmed to Thomas Talbot, Esquire, the castle and lord-
ship, with many feudal rights and privileges. The instrument refers
to Talbot as already holding "the manor or Lordship of Malahide in
our Land of Ireland of us in Chief by Knight's Service." It is wit-
nessed by many great officers in church and state, including Cardinal
Bourchier, Archbishop of Canterbury, his brother, Lord Essex, who was
the King's uncle by marriage; the King's brothers, George, Duke of
Clarence, and Richard, Duke of Gloucester; Earl Rivers, Thomas
Stanley of Stanley, and Lord Hastings^ names familiar to students of
Shakespeare and English history.

At that time few names were better known throughout western
Europe than that of Talbot. What reader of Shakespeare is ignorant
of the famous John Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury? The chronicles of
the time are full of his prowess and his victories. He was the terror
of Prance. At the sound of his name alone the enemy despaired and
. fled. For ages French mothers silenced thei'r children by .the threat
that Talbot would come. It was his lineal descendant, Talbot, Earl of
Shrewsbury, who, at the coronation of His Majesty King Edward VII,
took rank and precedence as premier Earl of the United Kingdom.
King ^Edward IV himself is said to have been betrothed to Elizabeth



22 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Talbot. " Since William, the Bastard died," it has been said, " there
has been no day, when the adhesion of the head of the Talbots has not
been distinctly important to the acting Government of England." Court
memoirs of the close of the Stuart era have much to say of the soldier,
courtier, and diplomat, more familiarly known as Dick Talbot, whom
James created Duke of Tyrconnel, and of his wife, la belle Jennings?
His brother, Eoman Catholic Archbishop of Dublin, is said to have been
the last state prisoner of eminence who died in Dublin Castle. Another
brother, Sir Eobert, continued the line of the Talbots of Malahide.

It was in the castle of Malahide and of this ancient stock that
Thomas Talbot, the founder of the Talbot Settlement in Upper Canada,
was born on the 19th day of July, 1771. He was the son of Richard
Talbot. His mother, Margaret O'Reilly, was grand-daughter of the
Earl of Westmeath, and sister of the celebrated Count O'Reilly, General
of Cavalry in the Austrian army. O'Reilly's history was one continuous
romance. By his brilliant charges at the close of the battle of Auster-
litz. he saved the remnant of that army from annihilation. But his
gallantry had already displayed itself on another field. In earlier
years he had killed in a duel a I' entrance his rival for the affections of
a Bohemian countess, whom he won as the prize of victory, although
himself dangerously wounded in the combat. Honours were showered
upon him by the emperors, and, dying in 1832, at the age of ninety-
two, he closed a career of extraordinary success and distinction.

Richard Talbot died in 1788. Forty-three years later his widow,
then over eighty years of age, was created by King William IV a peeress
of the kingdom of Ireland, with the title of Baroness Talbot of Mala-
hide. At least four of her sons were then living, of whom Thomas,
the youngest, was sixty years old. The two eldest, Richard and James,
in turn inherited the title. The latter's grandson is now Lord Talbot
de Malahide of the peerage of the United Kingdom. John, the third
son, entered the navy. He won fame, knighthood and rapid pro-
motion during the Napoleonic wars. Before he died, he wore the
Grand Cross of the Bath, and was Admiral of the fleet. Another son,
Colonel Neil Talbot, was slain in the Peninsula, charging at the head
of his dragoons. Richard Airey, a grandson, was Quarter-Master
General of the army during the Crimean war, and was afterward ele-
vated to the peerage.

II. THOMAS TALBOT AND ARTHUR WELLESLEY.

To a family so distinguished the paths of official preferment pre-
sented few difficulties. We find accordingly that Thomas, the fourth
son, received a commission as ensign in the 66th foot, before completing






[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 23-

llio twelfth year of his age. Within a few months he had been pro-
moted to a lieutenancy, and then retired on half pay. It was probably'
at this time that he entered the Manchester Free School, where he-
obtained all the schooling he appears to have ever received. At sixteen,
he is again on the act ; ve list as lieutenant in the 24th foot. Appointed!
to the staff of the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, the Marquis (afterwards
Duke) of Buckingham, he is associated with a brother aide-de-camp.,
Arthur Wellesley, better known to fame by his later appellation, as the
Duke of Wellington. Wellesley was a year or two his senior. Their
friendship, begun in early youth, was maintained throughout their ex-
tended lives. After Talbot's settlement in America, it was his custom
to make periodical visits to England, and the two friends met again and
again. Shortly before Wellington's death, the hermit of Port Talbot
was a guest at Apsley House, and the then octogenarians revived for
the last ttme the faded memories of youthful days spent in the precincts
of Dublin Castle. They had set out in the same profession with bril-
liant careers opening before them. Their paths had separated widely.
Each had worked out his destiny in his own way and achieved his aim.
The one became the " hero of a hundred fights, who never lost an Eng-
lish gun," conqueror of Napoleon, commander-in-chref, duke, prime
minister. The other had opened up for settlement a portion of the
almost endless forest of Upper Canada, and had seen the wilderness
blossom as the rose. They died within a few months of each other.
One was buried in imperial splendour in the great cathedral, at the
very heart of the vast Empire he did so much to preserve,

In streaming London's central roar.

Under the cross of gold

That shines over city and river.

The other lies far from the hum of men, in a lonely, rural graveyard
on a high cliff overlooking Lake Erie, where around him the earliest
of his pioneers rest well after long and weary toil, the silence broken
only by the song of birds and the murmur of the great inland sea below.

III. WESTWARD Ho !

In the year 1790 Talbot tore himself away from the gaieties and
frivolities of Dublin Castle, and we find him with his regiment at Que-
bec. In August, 1791, the good ship Triton brought to the ancient
capital His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent, in command of the 7th
Royal Fusiliers. In the same regiment was an 'ensign of 15, James
Archibald Stuart, afterward a prominent statesman and man of letters,



24 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

and raised to the peerage as Baron Wharncliffe of Wortley. Stuart
was a grandson of King George Ill's- early minister and favourite, the
first Earl of Bute. The friendship of the Duke, Stuart and Talbot,
continued during their lives, and was of service to the latter on ynpor-
tant occasions. Among the naval officers on board the Triton was
Lieutenant John Talbot, 'elder brother of Thomas.

Towards the close of the year, the Triton was again at Quebec,
having on board the first lieutenant-governor of Upper Canada, lieuten-
ant-colonel John Graves Simcoe, on his way to the western wilderness
to undertake the establishment of the new province. Among the offi-
cers in garrison he met the young Irish lieutenant of foot. Handsome
in person, courtly in manner, full of the enthusiasm, gaiety and energy
of youth, and withal the inheriter of a great and famous name, Talbot
was a social favourite. Simcos was endowed with an attractive per-
sonality and talents of a high order. He had won fame in the Revolu-
tionary war, and more recently rendered political service in the House of
Commons. In England, the political reaction was setting in strongly,
in consequence of the French Revolution, and " the glorious constitution
of Great Britain " was in everybody's mouth.

Both Simcoe and Taibot were sincere and fervent admirers of every-
thing British, and Simcoe, as representative of the sovereign, had come
to introduce into the new province a constitution, which, to borrow his
own language, was " the very image and transcript " of that of Great
Britain.

Simcoe was in his fortieth year, Talbot in his twenty-first. A
strong attachment sprang up between them. Talbot's experience at
Dublin Castle, as Buckingham's aide-de-camp, had qualified him for the
position which the new lieutenant-governor now offered to him.

IV. SIMCOE'S AIDE-DE-CAMP.

To an adventurous youth Upper Canada presented at that time
powerful attractions; mighty inland seas, an almost unbroken wilder-
ness, great hunting grounds, vast unexplored regions to be opened to
civilization. Moreover, the capital of the province was to be in the
near vicinity of the world-renowned cataract. Already Talbot's mind
had been excited by Charlevoix' glowing descriptions of southwestern
Ontario, the " Paradise of the Hurons," and its wonderful forests, " the
most beautiful in the world." \that more could an imaginative youth
demand? In a word, the young lieutenant accompanied Simcoe to
Niagara in the capacity of confidential secretary and aide-de-camp. His
name is attached to Simcoe's first proclamations. He remained a mem-
ber of the governor's family until June, 1794, when he returned to



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 23

England, being by this time a Major in the 85th foot, and summoned
to join his regiment. In January, 1796, at the age of twenty-four,
he became lieutenant-colonel of the 5th foot, a regiment well-known to
him from its having been stationed at Niagara during his sojourn there.
During his residence with Simcoe, he held that officer's confidence
and affection. He was a member of the governor's family. Employed
in several transactions of a diplomatic character, requiring tact, alert-
ness and dispatch, he acquitted himself to Simcoe's entire satisfaction.
These included visits to Philadelphia and Detroit and attendance at
two important Indian councils on the Miami. On his first visit to
Detroit as a member of Simcoe's staff in February, 1793, he found men
of his regiment, the 24th, in garrison. Mrs. Simco'e's Journal shows
Talbot's social qualities in an agreeable light. Bright, handsome, cap-
able, eager ts> help, ready to put his hand to any work needed, he was
indispensable at picnics and parties. Altogether, he was a young man
of more than ordinary promise, and when he went back to England
and to active service with a strong letter of recommendation from
Simcoe, a brilliant future was predicted for him by many, in his chosen
career.

V. ACTIVE SERVICE IN EUROPE THE HERMIT OF LAKE ERIE.

These high hopes were not destined to be realized. He took part
in the Duke of York's ill-fated expedition to the Low Countries, and
performed garrison duty at Gibraltar for a time. But he won no
special distinction. A circumstance affecting his military character
during this period, which has come down to us is that, in Flanders,
he was mildly censured by the Duke for disobedience of orders in lead-
ing his men by a sheltered route instead of taking the more exposed,
road he was directed to follow. Towards the end of 1800 military
operations were seen to be practically at an end. The Peace of Lune-
ville in 1801 and the Treaty of Amiens in 1802 formally closed them.
On Christmas Day, 1800, Talbot sold his commission, and immediately
after withdrew from the army. The announcement startled society
and became a nine days' wonder. He had resolved to emigrate to the
wilderness of Upper Canada, and to open up a large region on the
north shore of Lake Erie for settlement.

For this change of plan, many reasons have been suggested, chiefly
of a romantic nature. He had been disappointed in love but rumour
could not agree as to the fair object of his Affections. One of the
King's daughters, it was said, had fallen in love with him; but mar-
riage with a commoner was out of the question. He disliked military
service, for which he was by temperament unfitted; and there was,



26 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

perhaps, some truth in this suggestion. Being much at Court, he had
become sated and disgusted with the artificiality, the frivolity, the vices,
and dissipation of fashionable society; probably this had somewhat to
do with his decision. Mrs. Amelia Harris intimates that he had been
refused an appointment in the army he had thought himself entitled
to. " Others again," she adds, " said that neither Mars nor Venus
presided at his birth." This suggestion that he was not martial in his
inclinations may be connected with the story already cited of his military
experience in Flanders. As to " the lady in the case," Colonel Talbot
is said to have stated to Tozer, a Malahide settler, " to tell you the
truth, I never saw but one woman that I really cared anything about,
and she wouldn't have me, and to use an old joke, those who would
have me, the devil wouldn't have them. Miss Johnson, the daughter
of Sir John Johnson, was the only girl I ever loved, and she wouldn't
have me."

When Mrs. Jameson told him of the surmises relative to his early
life and his motives for emigrating, he laughed, " Charlevoix," said
he, " was, I believe, the true cause of my coming to this place. You
know he calls this the ' Paradise of the Hurons,' now I resolved to get
to Paradise by hook or crook, so I came here."

VI. TALBOT'S MOTIVES.

Simcoe in an official communication * attributed the change in
Talbot's plans to his energetic disposition, which led him to prefer to
the monotony of military life " the incessant and active enployment
which he has undertaken."

According to Fanny Kemble, whose informant was evidently Lord
Dacre, the latter was originally a partner in Talbot's scheme of settle-
ment. She states that, " Lord Dacre, 2 at the moment of his becoming
heir to that estate, was on the point of leaving England with Colonel
Talbot .... to found with him a colony in British Canada, where
Arcadia was to revive again, and at a distance from all the depraved
and degraded social systems of Europe, under the auspices of these two
enthusiastic young reformers. Mr. Brand had completed his studies in
Germany and acquired by assiduous reading and intimate personal
acquaintance with the most enlightened and profound thinkers of the
philosophical school of which Kant was the apostle, a mental cultiva-
tion very unlike, in its depth and direction the usual intellectual culture

1 Simcoe to Lord Hobart, Sessional Papers of Upper Canada, 1836.

1 Lord Dacre inherited his title from his mother, who had married Mr.
Brand. The citation is from " Old Woman's Gossip," by Fanny Kemble,
Atlantic Monthly, 1877.






[COYNK] THE TALBOT PAPERS 27

of young Englishmen of his class. He was an enthusiast of the most
generous description, in love with liberty, and ardent for progress ; the
political as well as the social and intellectual systems of Europe
appeared to him, in his youthful zeal for the improvement of his fellow-
beings, belated if not benighted on the road to it, and he had embraced
with the most ardent hopes the scheme of emigration of Colonel Talbot
for forming in the New World a colony where all the errors of the old
were to be avoided. But his mother died, and the young emigrant
withdrew his foot from the deck of the Canadian ship, to take his place
in the British peerage to bear an ancient English title, and become
master of an old English estate to marry a brilliant woman of English
fashionable society and to be thenceforth the ideal of an English
country gentleman/'

Doubtless Talbot was influenced bv more motives than one. The

t

spacious free life of the woods and lakes had captivated him, as it has
captivated many others before and since. His choice of one of the most
picturesque spots on Lake Erie for his own demesne is a sufficient proof
of his aesthetic taste and discrimination.

He was surfeited \^ith a societ % y, which, unconcerned about daily
bread, prayed only for its daily scandal. He was yet at an age, when
young men dream dreams, and like other idealists he hoped to realize
his Utopia in the New World. The calling of the West was continually
in his ears, and he could resist no longer. But there were practical
reasons urging him to take the tide at its flood, which leads on to
fortune.

VII. THE CHOSEN EEGION.

As a member of Simcoe's staff, Talbot had followed the trail of
the winter express from Niagara to Detroit in February, 1793. He
had attended a Council of the Confederated Indians on the Eiver Miami
in August of the same year. In the following April he had accom-
panied Simcoe to the foot of the Miami Eapids, when the latter estab-
lished an outpost there to check the aggressive movements of Wayne.
He had had favourable opportunities for spying out the land, and had
become impressed with the possibilities of the region between Lake
Erie and the Eiver Thames.

Tradition relates that on one of these western expeditions Talbot
had shown himself particularly helpful and strenuous, collecting wood
for fu'el, helping to pitch the tent, drawing the boat and canoe across
the Long Point portage; and, in short, to borrow the language of
Fleming, one of Simcoe's boatmen, " The Colonel was the prettiest, the
neatest and most active of the whole party." Simcoe jocularly sug-
gested to Talbot, when they rested at the mouths of Catfish and Kettle



28 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Creeks, that he should establish himself at one of these beautiful
spots, but the young officer answered, " Not yet/' When, however, they
arrived at the mouth of Talbot Creek, the lieutenant erected a tent on
the top of the cliff, turned host at once, met the Governor at the tent
door, and invited his Excellency to the Castle of Malahide. " Here,
General Simcoe," said the romantic youth, " will I roost, and will soon
make the forests tremble under the wings of the flock I will invite by
my warblings around me."

There is some reason for laying the scene of the story at the mouth of
Kettle Creek (now Port Stanley) instead of that of Talbot Creek. How-
ever this may be, the main fact is fairly authenticated, that, at the age
of twenty-three, Talbot was already thinking of making his permanent
abode on the shore of Lake Erie. Here he would organize a settlement
of loyal British subjects, who should enable him to carry out, as far as
practicable, the policy of his great leader, General Simcoe. Years of
absence on military service could not obliterate the remembrance of the
lofty cliff on Lake Erie, and with the restoration of peace he was ready
to return to Upper Canada, to bury himself in the forest, and to hew
out home and fortune for himself and those whom he might induce to
follow him.

VIII. SKITTIEWAABA ON LAKE ERIE.

Talbot came out accordingly, early in 1801, with the object of
securing a township for himself. General Simcoe had promised him
lands, but owing to some neglect the necessary warrants had not been
issued previous to the former's departure from Canada. Since then,
new regulations were in force. Patent fees and settlement duties were
required, and Talbot was baffled in his desire to evade them. Making
his way to a point called by him Skittie-waaba, 1 probably at or in the
neighbourhood of the present village of Port Stanley, he began to make
a clearing. From various circumstances it is probable that this was
in the township of Yarmouth, although a reference in his earliest letter
. on the subject might point to Houghton. If h'e could secure Yarmouth,
he shrewdly considered his fortune made. One of the king's sons, the
Duke of Cumberland, 2 had promised to lend his influence when desired.
So on the 16th May, 1801, he writes the Duke, announcing his safe
arrival in his "favourite settlement after the most propitious passage,
and, as I am persuaded," he proceeds, " that your Eoyal Highness will
be satisfied, I will add, that I find my situation quite what I could



1 OJlbway for " flre- water."
'Afterward King: of Hanover.



LCOYKB] THE TALBOT PAPERS 29

have wished but I have one request to make, which, if your Koyal
Highness will have the goodness to exert yourself in carrying into effect,
will complete my happiness in this world.'' Eeferring to General Sim-
coe'a promise, and the expense and difficulty in the way of securing
lands, he asks the Duke's influence to have it confirmed, " as I flatter
myself, that your Eoyal Highness will admit that I am as loyal a sub-
ject, and equally entitled to the degree of Hidalgo as other adventurers
in a new country."

" I have to petition that you will have the goodness (I may add
charity) to ask of the King the grant of a Township in Upper Canada
for yourself, exempted from the fees to Government and obligations of
location for instance, The Township of Eoughton in the County of
Norfolk on Lake Erie, or any other adjacent one." The Duke could
then transfer the property to Talbot. "Being a Royal Patent" it
would be exempt from fees. The Duke was to be the cat's-paw to pull
Talbot's chestnuts out of the fire.

Houghton at that time included what is now Malahide, immediately
east of Yarmouth. " I have pointed out the Township of Houghton as
it is situated near to my place of residence. Should your Koyal High-
ness succeed, I will have infinite happiness in paying my duty personally
to express my very great obligation for the protection afforded to the
once Gay Tom Talbot."

" I promise myself the enjoyment of every comfort in this Country
excepting that material one, of seeing those I most respect and love;
a small income provides the necessary luxuries in this Province to
a Settler, as his own industry and labour procure him provisions. I
am out every morning at sunrise in my smock-frock, felling and burn-
ing the Forest to form a farm; could I bait be seen by some of my
St. James's friends when I come home to my frugal supper, as black
as any chimney sweeper they would exclaim, " What a damn'd block-
head you have been, Tom " but I say, no ; as I actually eat my homely
fare with more zest than I ever did the best dinner in London/' The
writer closes with an apology for the intrusion and good wishes
for the prince, and signs "with the most unfeigned gratitude, Your
Eoyal Highness's most dutiful and faithful servant, Thomas Talbot."

IX. ROYAL LOBBYISTS IN LONDON.

Nearly five months later, the Duke of Kent, at his brother of
Cumberland's request, encloses this letter to Lord Hobart, the Colonial
Secretary, whom he writes at some length, enlarging upon Talbot'e
merits. The Duke of Cumberland did not wish his name to appear



30 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

in the transaction " any further," says the Duke of Kent, " than that
your Lordship should know he is extremely anxious, that whatever
indulgence can be shown Colonel Talbot should be afforded him, and
that he will consider himself personally obliged to you, by anything
done in his favour. The object, therefore, of this application is to
solicit your Lordship's good offices, that an instruction may be sent,
if not contrary to established rules, to the Lieutenant-Governor of the
Province of Upper Canada, to make a Grant of the Township to Colonel
Talbot, and preferably of that which he himself has pointed out, ex-
empted from Government fees." The Duke adds that the application
is made on two grounds: In the first place General Simcoe's omission,
and in the second, " that the services he rendered Gen. Simcoe while
in that country, and the opinion entertained of him by that excellent
officer render him very deserving of this small indulgence."

" I have now only to add that in meeting my Brother's wishes
upon this Subject, Your Lordship will also oblige me, and I therefore
flatter myself, that as far as in your power lays (sic), you will be
good enough to attend to this application in behalf of Colonel Talbot.
With sentiments of high regard and esteem/ 1 remain, my Dear Lord,
ever your most faithfully and sincerely, Edward."

The strained relations between the King and his sons were at this
time aggravated by the former's mental condition. Alluding perhaps
to this circumstance, the Duke mentions Talbot's " ignorance of the
difficulty there is for any of His Majesty's sons to address him with a
request of any sort, but more especially of the nature of that which h n
points out."

How long Talbot remained at Skittiewaaba is uncertain. It was
apparently long enough, however, to enable him to ascertain that Yar-
mouth soil was well adapted to the growth of hemp. But it would
appear that further efforts were necessary before he could secure his
grant. In October of the following year, we find him back in London.
He addresses a letter to the Government, giving information and advice
as to the soil, climate and inhabitants of Upper Canada. He extols
the character of the country, but reflects on settlers from the United
States, and complains of hardships often caused by magistrates. He
proposes, if his grant is made free of fees, to use his capital in th'e
establishment of agricultural works, especially the cultivation of hemp,
would like to divert emigration to Upper Canada instead of the States,
and suggests payment by government of their passage, tools, etc. Talbot
would himself provide persons to take charge of settlers to their destina-
tion. He urges that in any case he should have his grant of land.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 31

X. TALBOT'S SCHEME OF SETTLEMENT.

Simcoe was now in London, and on the llth February, 1803, he
writes Lord Hobart, Colonial Secretary, strongly pressing Talbot's claim
for 5,000 acres, and also for further lands under a new scheme of settle-
ment that he proposes. It was briefly as follows:

He desired that the allotment of 5,000 acres, to which he was
entitled as a field officer settling in Canada, should be granted in the
Township of Yarmouth, and the remainder of the Township reserved
" for him to settle with proper subjects of his own selection/' according to
his plan. This was, that for every family established by him on a 200
acre lot, 50 acres should be granted to the settler in perpetuity, and the
remaining 150 to Talbot " for the expense and trouble of collecting and
locating them." Simcoe considered it '"' an object of the greatest
national importance to turn the tide of emigration which was then
flowing to the United States, ultimately to rest in this Province." This
would speedily, in his opinion, fulfil his favourite idea " of elevating
this valuable portion of His Majesty's Dominions from the degrading
situation of a petty factory, to be a powerful support and protection
to the British Empire." Simcoe proceeds :

"His (Talbot's) plan is to introduce himself amongst a large body
of Welsh and Scotch families who arrived in New York in the summer
of 1801, and who have temporarily fixed themselves in the interior of
that state, many of whom are already disgusted with the dissolute prin-
ciples of the people there, and feel strong inclination to return under
the Government of England, but do not possess the means of purchasing
land or paying the fees demanded by the Provinces on grants."

The cultivation of hemp in Canada, to supply the Eoyal -Navy,
had been a subject of study by Simcoe, as early as 1791, before leaving
England for his Governorship. In 1792 and later years, Eussians
were introduced into* the Province to instruct farmers in the proper
system, of planting and gathering it, and 'prizes were offered to the
settlers who should be most successful in its growth. Talbot had been
very successful in cultivating it " on proper principles and to a greater
extent, perhaps," wrote Simcoe, " than any other settler in the Prov-
ince." The soil of Yarmouth was well adapted in his view to the
production of this valuable commodity, and he proposed to 'extend its
cultivation through the whole township. 1 Simcoe manifests throughout
the strongest affection for his former secretary, and a high appreciation
of his qualities, his ability and his record. Eeferring to Talbot's ser-

1 See Brymner's Archives Reports for 1891, pp. XLJI-XLJII, and for 1903,
pp. XXII-XXIII.



32 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

vices whilst Simcoe was Lieut-Governor, the latter says, " He remained
in my family four years, when he was called home as Major of the
85th Regiment, then ordered to Flanders. During that period he not
only conducted many details and important duties incidental to the
original 'establishment of a colony in matters of internal regulation, to
my entire satisfaction, but was employed in the most confidential mea-
sures necessary to preserve that country in peace, without violating on
the one hand the relations of amity with the United States, and on the
other, alienating the affections of the Indian Nations, at that period
in open war with them. In this very critical situation, I principally
made use of Mr. Talbot for the most confidential intercourse with the
several Indian tribes; and occasionally with His Majesty's Minister at
Philadelphia; these duties without any salary or emolument he ere-
cuted to my perfect satisfaction."

Simcoe defends the policy adopted by himself as Lieutenant-
Governor, of extending the King's bounty to all field officers who should
settle in the Province upon the same terms as to those who had served in
the American war, " it being obvious," he writes, " that it was for His
Majesty's interest that a loyal set of European gentlemen should, as
ppeedily as possible, be obtained to take the lead in the several districts."
He warmly commended the Colonel's object "by precept and example
to enforce principles of loyalty, obedience and private industry, amongst
those with whom he will be surrounded."

XI. THE TALBOT SETTLEMENT.

With such letters of recommendation it is not to be wondered at
that, within four days after the date of Simcoe's communication, Talbot
was the bearer of a letter from Lord Hobart to Lieutenant-General
Hunter, then Lieutenant- Governor of Upper Canada, in furtherance
of his plans, but with certain modifications. If Yarmouth was already
appropriated, the bearer was to have his lands in any other Township
he might select. The settlers were to be either from the continent of
Europe or from America and to be placed on Talbot's original grant
of 5,000 acres. This would provide for one hundred families. A
sufficient proportion of the Township was "for the present" to "be
reserved for the purpose of hereafter appropriating to him according
1 to circumstances " 200 acres for every family he might induce to settle
there.

This arrangement would call for a maximum grant of 20,000 acres
for C61onel Talbof s own benefit. He actually succeeded, as will appear

hereafter, in securing grants amounting to upwards -^-r^rflT*!! J

acres.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 33

The letter recommended Talbot to the Governor's protection and
good offices. It professed to be based upon the hemp project.

At this time considerable grants had been made in the south of
Yarmouth to the Baby's, sons of Pontiac's friend, and Talbot chose the
Township of Dunwich as that from which his grant of 5,000 acres should
be selected. Dunwich and, at a later period, the Township of Aid-
borough, were reserved for his experiment. To Dunwich he accordingly
hastened as soon as the necessary preliminaries had been arranged with
the provincial authorities at York.

XII. PORT TALBOT.

There is a sluggish, little stream in Dunwich, which at certain
periods may be said, without too great a stretch of the imagination,
to flow into Lake Erie. At other times it is quite stagnant, being
dammed back by a sandbar across its mouth. The isthmus thus formed
is dry and solid, a thoroughfare for men and teams, until a stiff south-
easter comes along and unceremoniously tears open the channel again.

On either side are lofty cliffs of sand, extending for many miles
along the shore. Here and there they overhang the lake, which is
constantly gnawing at their feet. Huge fragments fall from the top
directly into the water. The process has been going on for ages, and
thus the lake grows ever wider and shallower. At times a tall tree
will remain for years, clinging to the very edge with its roots almost
bare of soil. But at last it yields, and topples over. If it strikes the
cliff-side, it remains reversed, its top buried in sand, its roots tending
skyward. But the lake gnaws steadily below. Sooner or later the
inexorable current seizes its reluctant prey.

The creek is bordered by rich, though narrow, flats and verdant
hillsides. Enough of the forest still remains to diversify the landscape,
which forms one of the most picturesque bits of scenery along the lakes.

It was at the mouth of this little stream that Colonel Thomas
Talbot landed with four followers on the 21st day of May, 1803. He
seized an axe, and with his own hands chopped down the first tree, thus
formally inaugurating the new settlement. Since that day the spot has
been called Port Talbot, the stream Talbot Creek, and the region the
Talbot Settlement. From it extends the Talbot Road, eastward to Fort
Erie, and westward to the Detroit Eiver.

In the following year he brought carpenters from Niagara, and they
were employed during the years 1804 and 1805 in the erection of a
house and outbuildings. Here, except for occasional visits to the prov-
incial capital and to Europe, the remainder of his life was spent.

Sec. II., 1907. 3.



34

XIII. THE TERMS OF CONTRACT.

Talbot waited a year before taking out his patent for the five
thousand acres, which formed the basis of the scheme of settlement as
sanctioned by Lord Hobart's despatch of February 15th, 1803. He
selected them in one block, with the exception of a single isolated lot. 1
The terms of agreement required him, if he wished to claim other lands
in the proportion of 200 acres for each family settled upon 50 acres,
to place the families " upon his original grant."

The advantage to the settlers, if he had carried out the terms,
was obvious. Although their allotments might be small only one-
quarter of the usual allowance yet they would be close together. The
construction of roads, the erection of a school and a church, the trans-
action of business, social intercourse, would be facilitated, and there
would be within a very brief period a compact society of one hundred
families. This would be the nucleus of the wider settlement to be
composed of the reserved township. One-fourth of the reserve, it is
true, would be appropriated to the Founder as his compensation, but
the whole would be presently available for other settlers, to whom
one of the principal attractions would undoubtedly be the existence of
a compact settlement in their near neighbourhood. But the stipulation
was ignored by Colonel Talbot. He retained the original block of land
in his own hands. The hemp project, upon which the promise of the
Crown was founded, was dropped. No settlers came from the continent
of Europe, and very few, perhaps a dozen at most, from the United
States ; and yet immigrants from other countries, by the terms of con-
tract, were excluded. Instead of settlement in the reserved townships
\ being accelerated, it was greatly retarded by the scheme of settlement
as actually worked out by Talbot for his own benefit. Roughly speak-
ing, the south halves of Dunwich and Aldborough were made over to
him. The settlers were scattered along Talbot Eoad, and in Aid-
borough the Middle Eoad as well, on quarter lots, the Colonel taking
as a rule the residue. As he systematically held back his lands from
settlement and sale, the result was necessarily disastrous to the settlers'
hopes. Improvements were practically impossible, where so large a
proportion of the land was unoccupied and covered with the primeval
forest. Much of it was swamp-land, rich, but almost useless without

1 Hls letters patent from the Crown are dated May 7, 1804, and include,
the following lots, all of them being in the Township of Dunwich: In Con-
cession IX. Lots 22, 23, 24; Concession X, Lots 5, 21, 22, 23, 24, and A;
Concession XI, Lots 14 to 24 inclusive, also A and B; Concession XII, Lots
14 to 24 inclusive, also A and B.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 33

a general system of drainage. It is little to be wondered at that good
roads in these townships were unknown until they were thrown open
after his decease, that clearings were few and scanty, and that the town-
ships began their real growth after the Colonel had passed away.

XIV. GRIEVANCES OF THE EESERVBD TOWNSHIPS.

In other townships east and west, there was no one more strenu-
ous than he in denouncing the retention of reserves which inter-
fered with the rapid formation of .compact settlements. He was
the champion of the resident owner against the non-resident, of the
settler against the Executive Council. But in Dunwich and Aldbor-
ough the position was reversed. In these townships he himself was
to all intents and purposes the non-resident owner ; the reserves belonged
to himself; he was the person directly and exclusively responsible for
the hindrances to settlement; and naturally and with reason the pio-
neers, mostly Argyleshire Highlanders, resented his injustice towards
them.

Many of them had come out in consequence of proclamations pro-
mising each settler two hundred, or, at a later period, one hundred acres
of land. Their language was Gaelic. Few understood a word of Eng-
lish. "When a settler found himself restricted to fifty acres and learned
that Colonel Talbot himself, who had done nothing, was to receive the
remaining 150 acres of his lot, it is easy to understand the indignation
that was aroused. And so it happens, that while in other townships
of the Talbot Settlement his memory is treated with respect and
with a measure of gratitude, in Aldborongh and Dunwich his name is
regarded with abhorrence. The exceptions are largely to be found near
Tyrconnel, where Talbot's first immigrants settled in 1809 and 1810.
They had seen the better side of his character, and experienced many
acts of kindness, for which their descendants to this day hold him in
grateful remembrance. But when the celebration of the Talbot Centen-
nial was held in 1903, there were bitter complaints from the Highland
townships, and from descendants of the first Highland settlers in other
parts of the county of Elgin, until it was made clear that the celebra-
tion was to commemorate the establishment of the settlement itself
and to honour the pioneers in general, and not to honour the memory
of the founder.

XV. ORIGINAL TERMS VARIED IN TALBOT'S FAVOUR.

The limitation of 20,000 acres as the extent of the allowance
Colonel Talbot was to receive for his services was scouted by him. He
claimed absolute control of the two townships, and to be entitled inde-



36 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

finitjely to his allowance for every settler placed by him on 50 acres,
whether of the Colonel's land or the Crown Land. The Executive
Council intimated in 1817 that under his contention he could go on
claiming forever in geometrical progression 150 acres for every 50 acres
on which he might place a settler. At this time he had actually
received in all 15,800 acres under the scheme of settlement. The Exe-
cutive recommended accordingly that without waiting for him to com-
plete his settlement, 4,200 acres additional should be selected by him " in
the reserved townships of Dunwich and Aldborough to make up the full
allowance for 100 settlers as originally arranged, and that the remainder
of the land should be thrown open to ordinary settlement." They
mention that half of the townships named had been left at his selection,
equal to 61,000 acres; that these surveyed townships were lying idle,
whilst the ingress of settlers from the United Kingdom called for fresh
surveys. As a result of the war, United States settlers were hereafter
to be prohibited, and the source of supply, according to Talbot's original
plan was therefore cut off. They added the remark, "When the emi-
grant possessing an authority to receive 100 acres of land, finds himself
limited to the possession of 50, and that the Government actually bestows
on a stranger 200 acres on that account, no reasoning can remove the
impression of something worse than mere absurdity." Talbot did not
wait to argue, but immediately proceeded to England, and the Colonial
Secretary, whilst upholding the construction placed by the Provincial
Cabinet on the original grant, was induced by him to direct the latter
to vary the terms of it by extending the period for completion for five
years from 26th February, 1818. All those portions of the two town-
ships, which were vacant at the commencement of the Talbot Settle-
ment, were for this period to be reserved at Colonel Talbot's disposal,
all settlers authorized by statute were to be counted for the purpose of
his claim, not merely those mentioned in the plan of settlement as
originally agreed; and fees were not to be exacted until the patents
were called for. On account of the poverty of many of the settlers
this last point was specially insisted on by the Colonel, contrary to the
views of the provincial executive, who desired payment of survey fees
to be made at the time of location.

In January, 1820, Talbot formally notified Sir Peregrine Maitland
that he had completed the location of the lands especially put under
his- direction according to the orders from the Imperial Government
above referred to. In March, 1821, he submitted a list of 185 settlers
located. Sixty other names are mentioned in his papers. This would
Entitle him at most to 49,000 acres. What pretext or justification there
was for going beyond this amount H is impossible to ascertain. No



[COYNE J THE TALBOT PAPERS 87

explanation appears in the archives. The bare fact remains. As his
compensation he received grants in these townships exceeding in all
00,000 acres.

XVI. EXTENSION OF TALBOT'S SETTLEMENT.

In addition to these two townships, the control and regulation of
settlement in the greater part of the London and Western Districts,
some twenty-two townships in all, had been entrusted to him in 1811
by the Provincial Government. He performed this work ostensibly
without compensation. It enabled him, however, to procure the com-
pletion of the Talbot Road, extending from Delhi in the Long Point
Settlement to Sandwich, with a branch from Port Talbot to London.
This was effected through the conditions of settlement imposed and
enforced by him. For sales of School Lands -and Crown and Clergy
Reserves situated in the London District, he succeeded afterward in
getting an allowance of 3 per cent. Prom 1st January, 1826, under
orders from the Colonial Secretary, in addition to his percentage, a
pension of 400 per annum was directed to be paid to him from funds
to be placed at the disposal of the Imperial Government by the Canada
Company. This was received by him annually until his death.

At this time Talbot claimed a population of 20,000 for his settle-
ment, and declared that he had expended 20,000 in rendering them
comfortable. In 1831 he puts the population at nearly 40,000 souls,
and in 1837 at 50,000. In a letter to Sir John Colborne, Lieutenant-
Governor in 1831, he asserts, " / was the first person who exacted the
performance of settlement duties 'and actual residence on the land
heated, which at that time was considered as most arbitrary on my part,
but the consequence is now that the settlers that I found to com-
ply with my system are most grateful and sensible of the advantage
they could not otherwise have for a length of time derived by the
accomplishment of good roads, and I have not any hesitation in stating
that there is no other settlement in North America, which can for its
age and extent exhibit as compact and profitably settled a portion of
the new world as the Talbot Settlement."

In all, 540,443 acres of land, spread over twenty-eight townships,
were at various times down to the year 1824 placed in Talbot's hands
for settlement by orders-in-council or personal orders from the Lieuten-
ant-Governor.

These townships include the most westerly townships of Norfolk,
and, speaking generally, all those between the latter and the Detroit
River. A range north of the Thames from Zone in Kent to London
Township inclusive, are also comprised in the list.



38 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

XVII. THE TALBOT ROAD.

The Colonel's policy was to have a compact settlement of loyal
British subjects. For this purpose it was necessary to have a good road,
and the settlement duties included clearing ten acres of land and one-
half the road itself in front of each lot, as well as 100 feet adjoining the
road. It was also necessary that the Talbot Road should have no large
blocks to obstruct settlement, and the Crown and Clergy Reserves were
accordingly shifted to the back concessions. The settlers were in most
cases poor and unable to pay survey and patent fees; therefore they
should not be molested by the Toronto officials until it was entirely
convenient to pay them; and lastly, no certificates for patent should
issue 'except to persons who had erected a house 15 feet by 20 feet,
and been actual settlers for five years. This prevented them from sell-
ing out to speculators, and induced continuous improvements.

The Talbot Road was the first good road of any considerable length
in the province, and in 1837 it was described by Mrs. Jameson as the
finest in the province. Situated between the lake and the ridge which
forms its watershed, it was within convenient reach of excellent gravel
oh both sides. This natural advantage, and the Colonel's policy, com-
bined to make it an excellent highway: and it became an object lesson
to the settlers on the back concessions, who vied with each other in
improving their roads. The result is seen in the excellent highways
which form a network over the county of Elgin. The " Paradise of
the. Hurons " is now the Paradise of the motorist and the cyclist.

XVIII. THE BEGINNINGS OF SETTLEMENT.

The progress of the settlement was at first very slow. There is
a tradition that the Colonel resided near Fort Erie from 1803 until
1806 for the purpose of learning the art of farming, but this is not
borne out by the documents. A few men came in, apparently as
domestics or mechanics, and left again after a short stay. For his
own needs apparently, for there were few or no settlers, or else in anti-
cipation of immigration, the Colonel erected a grist mill and a saw mill
on Talbot Creek, near Port Talbot, in the year 1807 or 1808. The
event was celebrated by the Indians with a war dance to which the
Colonel was invited. He became by adoption, probably at this time,
a member of the Delaware or of the Munsey tribe. The mills were
burnt down by American marauders in 1814. George Crane, who came
with Talbot in 1803, and, on marrying, had a farm allotted to him in
Dunwich in 1806, was the first settler located by Talbot. He had not,
however, come in as a settler, but as an employee.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 39

In 1809 the first settlers came in with the intention of settling.-
Landing from small boats at the mouth of Talbot Creek, they were
welcomed by the Colonel on the beach, and treated with great kindness.
It was a few miles west of Port Talbot that the Pearces, Storeys and
Pattersons, numbering thirteen in all, established themselves in Dun-
wich along the lake shore. They came from Pennsylvania, but were all
of Irish descent. Stephen Backus, also from Pennsylvania, followed
in 1810.

The settlement of the townships lying eastward was rapidly effected
after Colonel BurwelPs survey of Talbot Road. The line of this famous
highway followed generally an old Indian portage path a few miles
north of Lake Erie. The first settlers on land now occupied by the
city of St. Thomas were Daniel Rapelje and David Mandeville, both
of whom came from Long Point Settlement. 1 They were also the
first settlers on Talbot Road.

In February, 1811, thirty persons petitioned the Lieutenant-
Governor-in-Council for grants on Talbot Road, almost all claiming
to be residents of Yarmouth or Southwold. One of these, Garrett
Oaks, in his printed reminiscences, claims to have settled on his lot
(now part of New Sarum), in 1811, and to have aided in chopping out
three roads, including one from Talbot Road to Port Bruce in 1810,
the road from St. Thomas to Port Talbot in 1811, and one from Yar-
mouth to Norwich Mills in 1812.

Failure on the part of Talbot settlers to pay patent fees was a
constant source of irritation to the provincial government. In 1831
the Home Government was informed that upwards of 5,000 deeds
on which, of course, fees were unpaid, remained to be taken out
by settlers. The Colonel replied that for this he was not respons-
ible, except in so far as he made it a matter of policy not to issue
his certificate to a settler for performance of settlement duties, until
he had performed them and was an actual resident on the lot he had
located him for, and further, that he was opposed to s'ettlers receiving
their patents until after a five years' residence on the land. After
receiving Talbot's certificate, a settler might postpone indefinitely tak-
ing out his patent, and (an important matter in the early days) paying
the survey arid patent fees. In many instances a patent was not taken
out for twenty or thirty years or 'even longer.



1 They were recommended for a grant of 200 acres each by order-In-
council, December 7, 1809. Mandeville received -Lot 45 on the south side of
Talbot Road in Southwold, and Rapelje the lot lying eastward, Lot 1 in the
8th Concession of Yarmouth. The lands were divided only by the township
line.



4O ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Generally speaking, the three townships of Aldborough, Dunwich,
and South Dorchester, and the North of Yarmouth, were settled by High-
landers; Talbot Road East, including the North Branch in Southwold, by
a miscellaneous immigration from the United States, the Long Point
settlement, the Niagara District, Southern England and elsewhere;
the south of Yarmouth by members of the Society of Friends from
Pennsylvania and New Jersey; Malahide by settlers from New York
State, Long Point and Nova Scotia, and Bayham by immigrants from
all quarters; London township by immigrants from Ireland under
"Richard Talbot, a very distant connection of the Colonel.

XIX. THE WAR AND SIMON ZELOTES WATSON.

The war of 1812 was a complete bar to settlement, and the pioneers
suffered greatly from plundering bands of Americans, largely from
Kentucky, who repeatedly moved up and down the Talbot Eoad, destroy-
ing mills and farm buildings, and carrying off not only live stock and
all kinds of produce, but beds and bedding, household utensils and
everything portable. Some of these marauding parties were composed
of or guided by disaffected settlers from the township of Delaware,
amongst whom a surveyor name Simon Zelotes Wat&on, 1 and one Wost-
brook were especially prominent. These had personal grievances against
Talbot in connection with land grants, and were loud in their threats
against his life if he should fall into their hands.

1 Lieutenant -Colonel Cruikshank has kindly contributed the following
interesting note with reference to Watson and Westbrook: "In the Quebec
Mercury of July, 1812, Simon Z. Watson is described as a land surveyor and
late a J.P. for the District of Montreal. In the Registry of the U. S. army
for 1813 (See Am. State Papers, Military Affairs, Vol. I, p. 387), his name
appears as Topographical Engineer for Military District No. 8. comprising
the States of Ohio and Kentucky, and the Territories of Indiana, Michigan,
Missouri and Illinois. The date of his appointment was August 20," 1813,
and he seems to have accompanied Harrison in his invasion of Canada in
September of that year. You will find other references to him in my Doc.
Hist., Vol. 3, p 146, and Vol. 4, pp. 23 and 25. The names of Simon Z.
Watson, Andrew Westbrook and James Westbrook are included in an alpha-
betical list of persons " having landed property in Upper Canada, who did
voluntarily withdraw from the Province without license during the late war,"
of which I have a MS. copy. Andrew Westbrook seems to ma to have been
the prototype of Desborough in Richardson's Canadian Brothers. You will
find references to him in Doc. Hist., Vols. 1 and 2, pp. 21, 193, 224 and 397,
and Vol. 4, p. 23. McKenney, in his book entitled " Tour to the Lakes,"
1827, found him settled on lands granted by the U. S. Government near Fort
Gratiot, and describes him as a large, red-haired, rough-featured man, and
a noted partisan during the war."



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS^ 41

Watson had been authorized by the Governor-in-Council to lay out
a road in Westminster and place on each side of it settlers he was to
bring from Lower Canada. Watson, however, maintained, that no lim-
itation had been imposed as to the origin of his settlers, until Colonel
Talbot, who was to certify to their character and fitness, notified him
that none from the United States should be admitted. Watson further
asserted that he had travelled 700 miles through the States collecting his
immigrants, 300 of whom he claimed were ready to come in and pay him
$100 each when settled, or the difference between $100 and the Govern-
ment fees of $37.50. Talbot's prohibition meant ruin to him. He charged
Colonel Talbot with duplicity in having intimated that no objection
would be raised to the right class from the States. The Colonel
admitted that he had spoken loosely, inconsiderately and without author-
ity, but was determined to exclude all settlers from the United States.
In this he was supported by the Executive. The result was a series
of stormy interviews, letters and urgent and emphatic memorials. Tal-
bot ordered Watson out of his house, and threatened to deliver his
answer by the constable, if Watson intruded again. Watson, whose
reason would appear to have been quite unsettled by brooding over his
grievance, answered by threats against the Colonel's life. The Execu-
tive took action forthwith to put him under bonds to keep the peace.
His grant was rescinded, except as to settlers from Lower Canada who
might come in during 1811. When the war broke out, Watson, with
some other settlers in Delaware and Westminster, including one West-
brook, joined the enemy. A detachment of Hull's army of invasion
penetrated to Westminster in July, 1812, and threatened the Talbot
settlement. Watson and Westbrook were with them, assisting with
their local knowledge. About the beginning of August, Watson nar-
rowly escaped capture at Allan's house in Westminster at the hands of
Col. Bostwick and Wm. Hamilton Merritt with a few militia under their
charge.

Colonel Talbot commanded the militia of the London and Western
Districts during the war. With them he was at the battle of Lundy's
Lane and Fort Erie. He was energetic in forwarding, and to some
extent, in furnishing supplies. As commanding officer he was in con-
stant correspondence with the civil and military authorities, and many
of his letters are preserved. He directed for a time the patrol service
near Port Dover, but can hardly be called a conspicuous figure in the
war. It is significant that while there was doubt about the loyalty of
many parts of the province, there was none respecting the loyalty of
Talbot's settlers.



42 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

XX. EFFECTS OF THE AVAR.

The close of the war found the settlement diminished and impover-
ished. The destruction of the mills was a serious inconvenience.
It was now necessary to revert to primitive methods, to grind wheat
by hand in stumps of trees, hollowed by fire, or else the settler had to
carry it on his back (horses being almost unknown and oxen scarce) to
the mill at Long Point, seventy or eighty miles away, wait there his
turn, sometimes for days, and then trudge home again through the
woods with the flour on his back.

Some found it more expeditious and economical to row in an open
boat to Buffalo, one hundred and fifty miles distant, to purchase flour.
A letter is extant from a new settler, Singleton Gardiner, who late in
October, 1816, after a perilous voyage in an open skiff from Port Tal-
bot succeeded in securing but a single barrel; there is pathos in its
reference to the dangers of the return voyage over the treacherous lake
in a rowboat so late in the autumn. His brother, Thomas Gardiner,
was the first schoolmaster in the settlement.

XXI. IMMIGRATION.

After the war, as has already been intimated, immigration from
the United States was prohibited. A few Irish and Scotch settlers
who had lived for some years in the States arrived, however, in 1816
and subsequent years, and located in Dunwich and Aldborough. Several
families of the Selkirk Settlement of Kildonan in the Red River Settle-
ment came in about tire same time. About 1819 these were followed
by a large immigration of Argyleshire Highlanders, who took up land
in Aldborough. These settlers, Scotch and Irish, formed a very desir-
able addition to the population. So numerous were those from Argyle-
shire, that when their descendants presented an address at St. Thomas
in 1881 to the son of the great MacCallum More, th'e Marquis of Lome,
then Governor-General, they assembled by thousands at St. Thomas.
An address in classical Gaelic, the composition of the late Rev. Dr.
MacNish, perhaps the most accomplished Gaelic scholar then living,
and himself an Argyleshire man, was presented to the Marquis and
fittingly responded to. It is said that the Marquis informed those
present that he had never in Argyllshire itself seen so many Argyleshire
people present at one time.

XXII. ST. THOMAS AND THE TALBOT ANNIVERSARY.

The village of St. Thomas dates back to the year 1817, when a
general store was opened at Kettle Creek, and another on the hill above.



LCOYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 43

Beginning with that year, the 21st of May in each year was observed
by the settlers in commemoration of the founding of the Settlement.
The celebrated Dr. Eolph had settled in Malahide in 1813; in 1817
he was living in Southwold, just west of St. Thomas. He was well
acquainted with Talbot, having acted as paymaster and military secretary
during the war. The Talbot anniversary was instituted upon his advice
and with his aid. The correspondence which took place before its insti-
tution has been preserved, and is curious enough. 1 The first celebration
was held at Dr. Lee's hotel, a mile or two east of St. Thomas. It con-
tinued to be held each recurring 21st of May, until the close of the
Rebellion. After the first few years it was held in St. Thomas, which
Colonel Talbot was in the habit of calling his " capital," except on
one occasion, when it was moved to London. It began with a dinner.
The standard toasts were, " The King," " The day and all who honour
it," and "The Honorable Thomas Talbot, the founder of the Talbot
Settlement." The Colonel, who made a point of attending the annual
celebration, always responded briefly, but with pride, and deeply touched
by his uniformly enthusiastic reception, 2 always concluding in the most
affectionate and emphatic manner, l God bless you all.' The dinner
was followed by a ball, opened by the Colonel, who selected for his part-
ner the prettiest girl amongst the farmers' daughters present. During
the two years of the Rebellion, the presence of a garrison at St. Thomi?
added splendour to the festivities. On one of these occasions the
scarlet uniforms of the officers of the 85th Regiment were conspicuous
amongst the gaily dressed dancers. It was the same regiment Colonel
Talbot had served with as Major on the continent of Europe nearly
half a century before. The presence of the military proved in the
end fatal to the anniversary. It had become too gay and fashionable
for the guests in homespun. Their attendance fell off, and the depar-
ture of the military deprived the festival of its chief attraction for
the fashionable visitors. Shortly after the rebellion, the Talbot anni-
versary was numbered with the things of the past.



1 A report of the preliminary meeting is published herewith for the
nrst time. The remainder of the papers may be found in Edward Erma-
tinger's " Life of Colonel Talbot," and in Judge Ermatinger's " Talbot
Regime."

2 The settlers in Dunwich and Aldborough were always conspicuous by
their absence, with the exception of the few Irish families at Tyronnel, who
had come In in 1809-1810.



44 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

XXIII. THE CASTLE OF MALAHIDE ox LAKE ERIE.

His house has been desoribed by Mrs. Jameson, Mr. Ermatinger
and others, and the old settlers love to explain its plan and mode of
construction. A long range of low buildings made of logs and shingles
was the Castle of Malahide. Tha approach to it from the east was
by a beautiful winding road running for miles through the Colonel's
wood. Descending the high banks of Talbot Creek half a mile from
its mouth, and ascending on the opposite side, it wound round the
brow of the hill under an avenue of walnuts a considerable distance
to the residence. The visitor's arrival if greeted by the Colonel's dogs
with loud barking. He steps on the Dutch verandah, disturbing the
poultry roosting thereon. Farm implements are ranged along it, and,
perhaps, the skin of a panther or lynx is nailed on the wall. He
enters the granary or store-room in the east end, where hung on tho
walls "the venerable yellow-dyed sheepskin c~>at and cap," as well as
the host's saddle, bridle and martingales. He passes on through this
room to " the audience chamber and dining-room, whence, by an easy
transition, Jeffrey was wont to slip out and in from the kitchen." The
centre room was plainly furnished as befitted a fovest home. A solid
pine table, a few chairs with skin or basket-vork seats, some chests and
a cupboard, a plain bookcase with a few books, a large map on the
wall, comprised its equipment all but the ample fire-place, whose
cheery blaze added light and warmth and life to the otherwise comfort-
less apartment.

Another contiguous frame structure contained a range of bed-
rooms for his guests. This is described by Mrs. Jameson in 1837.
In his later years a loftier building of the same material was added,
with suites of rooms for state occasions, and distinguished guests. A
cellar well stocked with choice whisky, and a goodly supply of wine
in double casks, carefully selected from Montreal, was an important
adjunct. The wine was reserved for the higher grade of guests, the
whisky was for the Colonel and his settlers.

XXIV. DISTINGUISHED VISITORS TO PORT TALBOT.

Many distinguished guests were entertained at Port Talbot. For
a long period of years no visitor to Upper Canada considered his tour
complete until he had paid his respects to the autocrat of Dunwich.
Governors, visiting noblemen and gentlemen, judges, litterateurs, and
occasionally ladies of distinction, were amongst his guests. Francis
Gore, General Brock, the Duke of Richmond, Labouchere, M.P. (after-
wards Lord Taunton), James Stuart Wortley, M.P., afterwards the



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 45

second Lord Wharncliffe, Sir Peregrine Maitland, Sir John Colborne,
Sir George Arthur, Lord Aylmer, Chief Justice Robinson, his brother,
Hon. Peter Robinson, Edward Stanley, M.P., afterwards Earl of Derby
("the Rupert of Debate"), Richard Talbot (afterwards Lord Talbot
of Malahide), and William Talbot, brothers of Colonel Talbot, Richard,
afterwards Lord Airey, Julius and John Airey (Talbot's nephews), Dr.
Howison, Dr. Dunlop, Bishops Stewart and Strachan, Mrs. Jameson,
Lady Emeline Stuart- Wortley and her daughter, now the Lady Victoria
Welby, and others of note, were sheltered beneath his hospitable roof.
On the other hand, in his occasional visits to England he met on equal
terms the greatest of the land. His predilection for pioneer garments
and rustic customs at Port Talbot did not preclude him from resuming
at need the habits of refined civilization; and, whether at Government
house, or the Speaker's dinner, at York, or before his own ample fire-
side, he met his fashionable and distinguished friends with the courtly
grace of a scion of the old Talbgt stock. Of military visitors he
appears to have had a surfeit. In 1832 he concludes a letter to Peter
Robinson with the curt announcement : " Pestered with half pay offi-
cers. Please don't introduce any of them to me/'

XXV. PERSONAL PECULIARITIES.

Mrs. Amelia Harris gives an interesting account of a visit paid
by him to Port Ryerse before his own mill was completed : " He had
come with a boat load of grain to be ground at my father's mill. The
men slept in the boat, with an awning over it, and had a fire on shore.
In front of the fire, Colonel Talbot was mixing bread in a pail, to be
baked in the ashes for the men. I had never seen a man so employed,
and it made a lasting impression upon my childish memory. My
next recollection of him was- his picking a wild goose, which my father
had shot, for my mother to dress for dinner." This was in accordance
with his habits at Port Talbot. Mrs. Jameson remarks, " For sixteen
years he saw scarce a human being except the few boors and blacks
employed in clearing and logging his land, he himself assumed the
blanket-coat and axe, slept upon the bare earth, cooked three meals a
day for twenty woodsmen, cleaned his own boots, washed his own linen,
milked his cows, churned the butter and made and baked the bread.
In this latter branch of household economy he became very expert,
and still prides himself on it." He dressed in homespun even on
journeys abroad. His sheepskin coat and fur cap, celebrated wherever
his name was known, was a familiar sight on the streets of York when
he paid his winter visit to the provincial capital, to present his annual
accounts and pay over his collections as Land Agent to the Govern-



46 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

ment. On these occasions he drove from Port Talbot in a " good,
strong, high-shouldered box sleigh, wrapped up in the well-known sheep-
skin coat, and covered with buffalo robes." In the same coat he was
frequently seen driving Lady Maitland or other ladies of the vice-regal
circle through King or Yonge Streets, an object of curiosity to all on-
lookers, to whom his name was a household word. An artist friend
painted a portrait of him, in the costume of the period, but with trousers
of homespun in broad stripes of black and red, forming a somewhat
startling and picturesque pattern. 1 His customary shabby apparel was,
as has been stated above, the means of preserving his liberty and per-
haps his life during the war of 1812, on the occasion of one of the
numerous visits of raiding parties to Port Talbot.

A tradition in the settlement, confirmed by the statements of
writers such as" Mrs. Jameson, 2 and Mrs. Amelia Harris, asserts that
until a comparatively late period, he carried out his misogynist views to
such an extent that he persistently refused to have female domestics
at Port Talbot. His papers, however, show that, whatever may have
been the custom in later years, he was not so' exclusive in the earlier
period, his account book showing that, from 1804 until 1809 at least,
he had one or two always in his employ. His famous valet and man
of all work, Jeffrey Hunter, married while in the Colonel's service,
and husband and wife resided in the house during the demainder of the
Colonel's life at Port Talbot. The exclusion of domestics of the
female sex cannot therefore have been of longer duration than from
1809 until Hunter's marriage. On the other hand, not a few ladies
were from time to time welcome visitors at Port Talbot.

XXVI. RELIGIOUS OBSERVANCES.

In the early days of the settlement he was careful about religious
observances, as a sort of weekly drill, a survival of garrison discipline.
Service was held each Sunday and the settlers were expected to attend.
The Colonel himself read th'e service. To insure punctuality of atten-
ance, the bottle was regularly passed around at the close. The result,
it is hardly necessary to add, was satisfactory on both sides. The prac-
tice was kept up until the erection of St. Peters church, four or five
miles away, put an end to the Colonel's ministrations. The same
method was adopted with equal success when the militia assembled for
their annual drill on the King's Birthday, the 4th of June. Their

1 See frontispiece, which, however, shows only the upper portion of the
original.

1 Mrs. Jameson speaks of his reputation as " a sort of woman-hater, who
had not for thirty years allowed a female to appear In his sight."



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 47

devotion to military exercises, it may be surmised, was only surpassed
by the sometimes startling character of their sub&equent proceedings.

The Colonel's clerical duties were not confined to those just men-
tioned. As the nearest local magistrate, he was frequently called upon
to perform the marriage ceremony, there being no clergyman resident
within eighteen miles. I have seen several marriage certificates bearing
his signature, amongst others, that of the well known Colonel McQueen.

It has been said that Talbot sometimes baptized infant settlers,
but that is among the apocrypha of the Settlement. After a few year*
he abandoned all pretense of religious observance. He never attended
church, and at times he paid slight respect to such clergymen as visited
him, although he is said to have contributed to the funds of the Church
of England, and was on friendly terms with the bishops, both Anglican
and Roman Catholic.

XXVII. THE SLIDING WINDOW-PANE.

The settlers loved to tell of interviews with Talbot through the
well-known window-pane. Many were the schemes to wheedle or hood-
wink the Colonel into granting a location. Meanwhile, his temper,
always irascible and domineering, grew more surly and morose in deal-
ing with applicants. His valet, steward and man of all work was
famous throughout the settlement, and, indeed, wherever the name of
Talbot was known. It was Jeffrey Hunter, his faithful attendant and
henchman, who gave notice of the approach of the crafty settler, and
of his designs. In his choice of settlers Talbot was discriminating.
Those who took his fancy were allowed to settle in the nearer, others
were sent to remoter townships. He knew by intuition whom he could
persuade to settle on a poor farm, and whom it was impossible to put
off without a good location. The masterful settler, however, occa-
sionally had his own way, even if he had to resort to physical force.
The name of Duncan Patterson is held in honour to this day for having
thrown the Colonel to the ground, and held him there until promised
the location desired, which the Colonel had at first refused. To pre-
vent the recurrence of such inconveniences, the inventive genius of the
Colonel and the faithful Jeffrey contrived an expedient, which resulted
satisfactorily. No longer was the designing homesteader admitted
within the precincts of the Castle of Malahide. He presented himself
outside, opposite a window, in which a sliding pane was fitted; and
behind the open pane, at a signal from Jeffrey, the florid face and
gleaming eyes of Colonel Talbot confronted the applicant. Tradition
has preserved the Colonel's form of salutation, even to the tones of his



48 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

harsh and husky voice. "What do you want?" was the peremptory
inquiry which opened the interview with the trembling and anxious
immigrant unskilled in the ways of Talbot. Having made known his
desire for a particular location, the intending settler was obliged to
undergo a rigid cross-examination as to his antecedents, means and
motives. If the application was granted, he went away rejoicing that
he had escaped so easily. If refused, the applicant exercised his
democratic privilege of abusing and cursing the Colonel and all his
belongings. Then came the conclusion of the ceremonial. The Col-
onel's rough voice called out, " Jeffrey, set on the dogs," the pane of
glass was closed, and with it the interview.

XXVIII. THE TEMPERANCE MOVEMENT.

A hard drinker himself, Talbot was shocked beyond measure at
the rise of the temperance movement in the early 30's. He quickly
disposed of moderate drinkers by classing them with the objectionable
triumvirate of Kadicals, Kyersonians and Rebels. Sir James Alexan-
der, an officer in the garrison at London, who visited him about the
year 1842, with the regimental doctor, expecting to spend a week at
Port Talbot, was promptly undeceived. Dinner was served shortly
after their arrival. The host grew more and more observant, as the
officer passed the decanter without replenishing his glass, and, at the
conclusion of the meal, calling him into another room, said, decisively:
'*' I have ordered your horses to be got ready ; you will be able to reach
St. Thomas before dark." In his book entitled " L'Acadie," Sir James
records the incident with much gusto ; but local tradition asserts that
he was not even 'permitted to finish his dinner before Talbot ordered
Jeffrey to have the horses saddled and bridled.

His deterioration in habits and manner was owing partly to early
military and court training, but largely to his situation. He never
associated with the settlers ; he lived aloof from his neighbours. Human
sympathies perished from atrophy. Mrs. Jameson was moved to tears
by the pathos of his situation as he recited it to her. She adds : " He
has passed his life in worse than solitude. He will admit no equal in
his vicinity. His only intercourse has been with inferiors and depen-
dents, whose servility Ire despised, and whose resistance enraged him
men whose interests rested on his favour on his will, from which
there was no appeal. Hence despotic habits, and contempt even for
those whom he benefitted; hence, with much natural benevolence and
generosity, a total disregard, or rather total ignorance, of the feelings



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 49

of others all the disadvantages, in short, of royalty, only on a smaller
scale. Now, in his old age, where is to him the solace of age? He
has honour, power, obedience, but where are the love, the troops of
friends, which also should accompany old age? He is alone a lonely
man. His constitution has suffered by the dreadful toils and privation
of his earlier life. His sympathies have had no natural outlet; his
affections have wanted their natural food. He suffers, I think; and
not being given to general or. philosophical reasoning, causes and effects
are felt, not known/'

An amusing story is told, typical, it would seem, of many hard
drinkers in the spacious days, when George III was king. Talbot
used to say that a man, who drank in the early morning was sure to
die a drunkard. To show the sincerity of his belief, and his resolve
not to expose himself to this danger, he placed a mark on an out-
building, showing where the sun would cast his shadow at 11 o'clock.
Long before the hour, the Colonel would sit in his armchair gazing
intently at the moving shadow. Precisely when it reached the mark,
Jeffrey was ordered to produce the decanter, and the rest of the day
was devoted to indulgence. To have ample time for this dissipation,
he had an inflexible rule that no business should be transacted after
12 o'clock. Settlers who had walked scores of miles following a blazed
track in the woods to get their land, found on their arrival that they
could not see the great man, because the noon hour had struck. Back
they had to trudge to the nearest inn, two miles or more, or sleep in
the woods, so as to be on hand to interview the distinguished Govern-
ment Agent next morning.

When the Colonel was absent from home his domestics could
sample the wine, and there were times when he found an empty cellar
on his return. Eeturning from England with one of his brothers, who
found the wines in the United States detestable and longed for the
choicer brands of the old country, he consoled him with the promise
of good wine at Port Talbot. Arrived at the castle, he called for some
of Logan's best port, to redeem his pledge, and cleanse his brother's
palate of the villainous stuff he had been drinking. To his horror there
was none in the cellar. " None," asked the Colonel, " what has become
of it ? " The Hibernian domestic was ready with his answer, " None,
yer honour, it all dried up with the hot weather." *



1 ThIs, with some other anecdotes, are reproduced from Edward Erma-
ting-er's "Life of Colonel Talbot," with some additions supplied by local
tradition.

Sec II., 1907. 4.



8O ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

XXIX. PUBLIC DUTIES.

The Colonel was not enthusiastic in his devotion to his somewhat
numerous public duties. He was Lieutenant for the County of Middle-
sex in 1804. A member of the Legislative Council of the Province
since the year 1809, it is doubtful if he ever took his seat. A Justice of
the Peace, he took his place at the Quarter Sessions at Charlotteville for
one day in 1806, but there is no record of his doing so afterwards. In the
following year he was appointed one of the four members of the Court
of Request for the County of Middlesex; but there is no record of his
having officiated, as far as published accounts go. It was doubtless
on his advice that during this year Ebenezer Green was named Constable
for Dunwich and Aldborough; in 1808, John Quick, Constable of Dun-
wich, and Samuel Guarnsey, collector; and in 1809, Joseph Smith,
Constable for Dunwich. As magistrate, Talbot never issued a summons
or warrant. His admirer, Colonel George Munro, 1 accounts for the fact
partly by the conspicuous morality of the settlers, and partly by th?
Colonel's kindness of heart. An additional cause is probably to be
found in less laudable idiosyncrasies, and especially in his indifference
and aloofness.

In 1826 Talbot, Burwell, Hamilton, Charles Ingersoll and John
Matthews were appointed by statute Commissioners for the purpose of
erecting the London Gaol and Court House, and to levy a rate therefor.
The Court House is still used for its original purpose. In its original
construction its general outlines conformed to those of the Castle of
Malahide.

An ardent Tory of the old school, before the days of responsible
government, he did not condescend to vote personally at elections. This
may have been owing to his position as a Legislative Councillor, but
it was more likely owing to his peculiar temperament. The intensity
of his views on political questions was, however, well known and tended
to produce in his pugnacious Highland neighbours an equal if not
greater fervour of opinion in the opposite direction. It is significant,
but not perhaps to be wondered at, that the Scotch township of Dun-
wich in which he lived is to-day the most strongly Liberal township
in the county. There are streets in which for miles every voter, until
a recent period at all events, cast his ballot on that side. On the other
hand, it is 'equally significant that the southern portion, including Port
Talbot, is to this day strongly Conservative. This section contains
descendants of the original immigrants from Pennsylvania who came
in 1809 and 1810, and who experienced special kindness and hospitality
at his hands.

1 In letters to the press of St. Thomas, several years ago.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 81

XXX. TALBOT'S POLITICAL MEETING AT ST. THOMAS, 1832.

From the considerable volume of papers preserved by Colonel
Talbot, relating to the great political meeting at St. Thomas on St.
George's day in 1832, it would appear that he regarded his success on
this occasion as the crowning triumph of his career. A brief reference
to the meeting and the Colonel's speech, the only political address he
is known to have delivered, will therefore not be out of place.

The accession to power of a Keform Government in England and
the passage by the British Government of the Reform Bill, greatly
extending the franchise and wiping out many " rotten boroughs," gave
the Liberals in Upper Canada grounds for hoping for a change in the
sfvstem of administration here. Anxious for the overthrow of the
Family Compact and for urgently desired reforms, responsible govern-
ment being as yet hardly dreamed of, they began to hold caucuses and
public meetings for the formation of what were called political unions,
and to petition for the recall of the Lieutenant-Governor, Sir John Col-
borne, a well meaning military officer of high character, who was believed
to have placed himself entirely in the hands of the Family Compact.

The Liberals included almost all Methodists, Baptists and Scotch-
men, and a very large proportion of the immigrants from the States.
They represented an overwhelming majority of the 'electorate. But the
Family Compact, occupying all the places in the Provincial Government,
Legislative Council and all official positions great and small throughout
the province, went on serenely vetoing bills passed by the assembly for
furthering the development of the Province, punishing the popular
leader with repeated expulsion from the Legislature, to which he was
repeatedly re-elected, and contemptuously disobeying explicit instructions
of the home government to put themselves in touch with popular senti-
ment, until the crash came in the rebellion of 1837. Then followed
Lord Durham's famous report, the introduction of responsible govern-
ment, and the downfall of the Compact.

In the spring of 1832 the spirit of reform was in the air. The
temperance question began to loom up large, and was favourably consid-
ered by religious bodies. Temperance societies were formed. Their
members were to a considerable extent, and in some places exclusively,
Liberals. The rigid conservatism of the day regarded with suspicion
all innovation of whatever character it might be.

Colonel Talbot snuffed rebellion in the air, and made up his mind
to put down the movement at once as far as the Talbot Settlement was
concerned. Fly leaves were distributed as follows:



62 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

NOTICE.

Having seen the proceedings of different meetings held in the
Talbot Settlement, on the subject of imagined grievances, and finding
that it is now necessary to ascertain the real sentiments of the inhabit-
ants, so as at once to put down the fever (by a few only) manifested,
to encourage disaffection to the British Government, I give this notice,
recommending a general meeting of my settlers on St. George's day,
the 23rd of April next, at the King's Arms, 1 at St. Thomas, at noon,

when I shall attend.

THOMAS TALBOT,

Father of the Talbot Settlement,
Port Talbot, March 14, 1832.

The result was a large gathering of the electors, many of them
armed with bludgeons and prepared for battle. The number was
estimated at 1,500 to 2,500. E. A. Talbot, of the London "Sun," a
friendly newspaper, computed it at 2,000, of whom 800 signed an address
dictated by the Colonel and moved by the late Edward Ermatinger,
who appears to have been one of the leading spirits. Apparently the
Colonel's party did not preponderate at the meeting, but his political
friends were enthusiastic and his opponents refrained from hostile
demonstrations. At one point in his address there was some noise in
the outskirts of the crowd, which made the orator pause for a moment.
Taking out his snuff-box, giving it thp usual formal tap, he admin-
istered a large dose of the powdered tobacco to his nostrils, shook his
extended fingers a few inches from his nose, and called out : " Gentle-
men, I am an old man but tough." His admirers spoke of him
familiarly afterwards as " Tommy Tough."

XXXI. TALBOT'S SPEECH AT ST. THOMAS.

The MS. of the speech is an interesting document. The Colonel
wrote it out on foolscap, beginning economically at the top of the page.
After its conclusion he discovered that he had omitted the opening
words. But there was no line left, and he had to crowd them in close
to the upper edge of the paper, and there we read them in his own
autograph, " Silence and attention." Imagine a political orator of the
present day beginning his address to a mass meeting of electors in this

1 The King's Arms Hotel was at the southwest corner of Church and
Talbot streets, where the Llsgar House stood until it was torn down a
few years ago.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 53

fashion! But the old Colonel was on parade, and he remembered that
lie was one having authority.

The reference to " the sheep with the rot," provoked shouts of
laughter. The Colonel was pleased, smiled, took snuff, and shook his
finger jocularly at the audience. So also with the reference to " the
flagstaff," by which was meant one of the Teeples of Malahide, who
was remarkable for his height. The reference to " nation and denom-
ination " was intended to apply to the Americans and Methodists. The
Colonel was clearly not prejudiced in favour of " d d cold-water-
drinking societies." As father of the settlement, he closed with the
benediction. But he was not a Universalist. Only the elect should
get the benefit of it, and the rest were cheerfully consigned to the place
of punishment they deserved for their political sins. "You that are
true British subjects " are exclusively to be blessed. The temperance
societies he had already " damned." The speech is given in extenso
from the Colonel's own draft, and the reader is referred to the text for
a complete understanding of this important episode.

The political excitement was by no means allayed by the success
of Talbot's meeting. The Government, however, profited by it through
the influence it produced in the rest of the province and in England.
Mackenzie found himself 'confronted on his visits to Downing Street,
as the bearer of petitions for Colborne's removal, by counter petitions,
with signatures exceeding the number attached to those in his charge,
approving of Colborne's conduct, and effusively loyal in th'eir sentiments
of devotion to the king. In the Talbot Settlement, as elsewhere, the
agitation was continued, and the parties were not content to rely upon
argument alone. Acts of violence, some of which would appear, if not
instigated, to have been approved by Talbot, followed. In a letter to
Hon. Peter Eobinson in January, 1833, he exults over the riotous acts
of his henchmen from Dunwich. "My rebels," he writes, "endea-
voured to hold a meeting at St. Thomas on the 17th, Dr. Franklin's
birthday, as I am informed, but in which they were frustrated by my
loyal guards, who routed the rascals at all points, and drove them out
of the village like sheep, numbers with broken heads, leaving their hats
behind them, the glorious work of old Colonel Hickory. In short,
it was a most splendid victory. Mr. Fraser, the Westlian (sic) Method-
ist, behaved admirably on the occasion, and I scarcely think they will
venture to call another meeting, at least not at St. Thomas. Their
object was to form a political union, the articles of which were to elect
the legislative council, the magistrates, etc." But the rebels, who made
themselves obnoxious by drinking cold water and advocating revolution-
ary sentiments so startling as those specified, did not acknowledge them-



B4 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

pelves beaten. On the contrary, they claimed victory all along the line,
and asserted that their meeting was an eminently successful one.

XXXII. TALBOT'S SYSTEM OF LAND TKANSFER.

The Torrens system of land transfer has well known advantages.
Questions of title are settled by it once and for all. Transfers are
effected with simplicity and dispatch, formalities are waived, and a
claimant knows exactly how his title stands. But this system was
anticipated by Colonel Talbot long before Torrens was heard of. His
townships maps were long famous. They are now preserved in the
Crown Lands Department, and in future ages will be interesting relics
of the pioneer age of Upper Canada. Copies of the Surveyor's maps
were in Talbot's custody. When an applicant's claim was allowed,
the Colonel with a lead pencil wrote the name across the lot selected.
There the entry remained for years until the settlement duties were
performed to the Colonel's satisfaction, and the certificate issued, which
would entitle the settler to his patent on payment to the Government
of the survey and patent fees. If the applicant failed to perform the
conditions, an eraser in the Colonel's hands soon cancelled the name,
and the settler's chance of reading his title clear vanished. If the
settler sold out to an approved successor, the name of the transferee
was as readily substituted by the successive use of the eraser and pencil.
What could be simpler, fairer or more effective? Let the lawyers
answer. Probably the answer would be that every Crown Land Agent
might not be as honest or as methodical as the crusty Colonel. His
merits as superintendent of settlement were acknowledged even by those
who denounced the objectionable features of his language and conduct.

He tried to discriminate between the honest and industrious appli-
cant and the crafty, shiftless or dishonest. He refused to admit bad
characters amongst the settlers, and insisted in general on a reasonable
compliance with the settlement conditions.

In receiving pay for lands, however, he was especially strict on on - e
point. Notes of the Bank of Upper Canada were always legal tender
with him; but woe betide the man who asked him to accept bills of
the Agricultural Bank, or the Farmers' Joint Stock Bank, or any other
new fangled institution.

XXXIII. TALBOT AND THE AIREYS.

Being unmarried, Talbot's desire to acquire a great estate included
tire wish to leave it to some near kinsman, who should thereby be able
to sustain in the New World the ancestral dignity of the Talbots de



LCOYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS SB

Malahide, and to preserve their memory. 'His brother William had
visited him in 1810. His sister Margaret's son, Julius Airey, had after-
wards been invited to reside with the Colonel. A residence of a year
or more had satisfied young Airey, just verging on manhood, with the
home life of Port Talbot. His experiences were anything but pleas-
ing. The youth found no suitable companions among the neighbouring
settlers. The life was intolerably dreary. Its monotony was varied
only by the uncle's eccentricities of habit and temper. For a year or
more the nephew endured it. Then he returned to England, cheer-
fully, no doubt, relinquishing his hope of inheritance of the vast estate.
Eichard Airey, his brother, was Secretary to Lord Aylmer during the
tatter's Governor-Generalship. He had visited Colonel Talbot while
holding this position. Afterwards, during the rebellion, as Lieu-
tenant-Colonel of the 34th Eegiment, he had been quartered at St.
Thomas, only thirteen miles distant. S6me years later, beingr then
Military Secretary at the Horse Guards, he removed from England with
his family, and came to Port Talbot to reside. Talbot denied that he
held out inducements to him to come to Canada, but maintained he had
reluctantly assented to Colonel Airey's own proposition. At all events,
when Airey arrived, it was with the understanding, on his part at least,
that he was to settle at Port Talbot and succeed to the estate.

The old residence was soon transformed by the new occupant. The
hours for meals were changed and new ways of living introduced, to
suit the fashion of the Old World. Disagreements resulted. Talbot
built a new house close by, where he might live as he pleased. " But,"
as Mr. Edward Ermatinger says, " all would not do, the old bird
had been disturbed in his nest, and he could not be reconciled." He
determined to spend the rest of his days in England or on the Continent
and actually resided in England for a year and more. 1

Before leaving Port Talbot, however, he effected a settlement with
his nephew, by conveying to him the Port Talbot estate, worth then
about ten thousand pounds, and including some 1300 acres, as well
as all his lands in Aldborough. 2 Whilst Talbot was in England,
Airey returned thither with his family, and resumed his military duties.
He became Sir Kichard Airey, was Quarter-Master-General during the
Crimean War, some years before his death, and was elevated to the
House of Lords.

1 See letters of Colonel Talbot and George Macbeth to H. C. R. Becher
in the Appendix to " The Talbot Re'gime," by Judge Ermatinger.

* The deed is dated 16th March, 1850. It describes Aldborough lands
containing 27,650 acres, more or less, but includes expressly all other lands
owned by Talbot in the Township.



B6 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

XXXIV. THE COLONEL'S DEATH.

After fifty years of residence in the forest, it was hardly to be
expected that Talbot would feel permanently at home in England. He
renewed his acquaintance with his old friend, the Great Duke, at Apsley
House, and with many others in high station, but pined for the lake
and cliffs and the winding waters of Talbot Creek. He returned to
find his old home rented by Colonel Airey to a stranger. He was
obliged to take a small room in the house of Mrs. Hunter, the faithful
Jeffrey's widow. Here for some time he lived, cooped in a small
apartment, within sight of the hilltop where he had spent nearly half
a century of his life.

Mr. George Macbeth, the careful manager of the estate, became
his sole devisee and legatee. Mr. Macbeth, having on his marriage
removed to London, the Colonel left Port Talbot, and resided at Mr.
Macbeth's until his death, which occured on the 5th February, 1853,
only a few months after that of his friend, the Iron Duke. The
funeral proceeded on the 9th as far as Fingal. There, through the
misconduct of the undertaker, according to one account, but more pro-
bably by reason of the crowded condition of the little tavern, the coffin
was left over night in a shed or lean-to attached to the rear portion
of the building. The following day, the little procession went on to
Burwell's Corners, and thence over hill and dale by the winding road
through " The Colonel's Woods " to Port Talbot. Here the body lay
for a short time in the old familiar home. St. Peter's church is four
or five miles farther west. There the brief service for the dead
was recited. It was a bitterly cold day, and comparatively few were
present. Near by, on the high cliff overlooking the lake, is the final
resting place of many of the brave pioneers. There, in ; their midst,
pnd close to the grave of Lord Airey's little daughter, under a plain
slab, lie the mortal remains, as the epitaph bears witness, of



XXXV. COLONEL TALBOT'S APPEARANCE.

Colonel Talbot was rather under medium height. As a youth he
must have teen strikingly handsome, and he possessed an engaging and
courtly manner. His disposition was amiable, and he sought oppor-
tunities to make himself useful. Mrs. Simcoe in her journal refers
to this trait in terms of warm appreciation. Fleming, who, in the
capacity of boatman, accompanied the Lieutenant-Governor on an expe-
dition up the lake in 1793 or 1794, used to speak with enthusiasm of
Talbot's conduct on the occasion. The Colonel," he said, " was the



THE TALBOT PAPERS 87

prettiest, the neatest and the most active of the whole party." Mrs.
Amelia Harris in her interesting reminiscences observes that while in
the army Talbot was regarded as "quite a dandy/' Her recollection
went back almost to the beginning of the settlement, when he was
between thirty and forty years of age. William Lyon Mackenzie saw
him on the hustings at St. Thomas in 1824, and was strongly prepos-
sessed in his favour by what he saw and heard. " His air," he writes,
" is that of a military officer of distinction. In youth he must have
possessed a handsome person and well-formed features; for -even now,
and he is nearly sixty years of age, his features have nothing harsh,
and his appearance is rather prepossessing." x Two years later, Mrs.
Stewart saw and conversed with Talbot when he accompanied Sir Pere-
grene Maitland to Peterborough. His eccentricities were widely known ;
but they were not in evidence on state occasions, and she, like Macken-
zie, was disappointed to find that there was nothing remarkable about
his manner. Having heard from his own lips a recital of the strategy
by which he avoided capture by so-called " Indians " who invaded Port
Talbot during the war, she writes, " He gives me the idea of the most
cool courage imaginable.^ 2

His portrait in water-colours, painted when he was probably up-
wards of sixty years of age, shows a full, florid face, beaming with
intelligence and good-nature, twinkling eyes, features and expression
strongly resembling those of King William IV, on the whole a striking
and attractive figure. With advancing years, he became more corpulent.
Mrs. Stewart thought him " fat and short." A pathetic picture is
furnished by one of his neighbours, 3 who remembers the Colonel as a
feeble old man, bent nearly double, and creeping about the old place,
laboriously leaning on a stout walking-stick.

Proud of the homespun, manufactured and worn by his settlers,
Talbot followed their fashion, and was hardly to be distinguished in
attire from the poorest among them, as he moved about his estate.
The portrait represents him in trousers with broad stripes of scarlet
and black, 4 the whole costume probably of home manufacture. On his
travels, even in England, and in visits to great houses, where he was
a welcome giwst, he persisted in wearing garments of Port Talbot
manufacture, whose excellence he vaunted in comparison with English
cloths. When Mrs. Stewart saw him he wore a " greatcoat made of
sheepskins with the wool on, 'either of natural black or dyed, and a

1 " Sketches of Canada and the United States," London. 1833, pp. 113-114.
' " Our 'Forest Home," pages 90-93.

1 Mr. George McKay, who still resided near Port Talbot until a few
months ago.

4 These do not appear in the frontispiece.



88 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

pair of boots of the same, which he wears over his other boots; and,"
she continues, " as he is fat and short, you cannot think what a curious
figure he is in this Arctic, dress." 1 The sheepskin coat was famous
on both sides of the Atlantic, as was also the high box-sleigh, in which
he made his annual winter visit to the provincial capital, attended by
his almost equally famous valet and man-of-all-work, Jeffrey Hunter.
The settlers along Talbot Road watched for its coming, and often was
its progress delayed by messages to be delivered and commissions to be
executed in York or at intermediate points. To Jeffrey was entrusted
the task of keeping these in mind, that none might be overlooked.

The Colonel's coat and sleigh were familiar sights at York, where,
buried in sheepskins, he was not infrequently seen driving Lady Sarah
Maitland, and in earlier days Mrs. Gore, along King Street.

XXXV. CONCLUSION.

The keynote of Talbot's character will be found in his pride of
birth, his military and court training, his domineering temperament,
his isolation, and his desire to accumulate a great landed estate. Talbot
Road and Settlement were merely incidental to his main object. His
virtues, common to all the settlers, were unflinching loyalty and the
welcome of the open door. To religious, political and moral reform
he was blindly opposed or contemptuously indifferent. He lacked ini-
tiative: his schemes of settlement and road-building were borrowed.
His merit was that he alone exacted a strict performance of settlement
duties. His signal demerit was that he ignored his own moral and
civic duty to the two townships, for whose isolation he was alone
responsible. They found in Henry Coyne, an Irishman from Belfast,
who settled in Dunwich in 1817, a sympathizing friend and champion.
Under his and his son^' leadership, public sentiment was aroused,
reforms and municipal improvements effected, wild lands subjected to
taxation, and the Colonel forced to lease portions to meet the assessment,
relieving to some extent the intolerable burden on the settlers. Talbot
never forgave, nor did the settlers. The mention of his name to-day
flushes the cheek of their descendants with anger. Who can blame
them ? " Seek other cause 'gainst Roderick Dhu " ?

The editor, to whose hands the irony of fate has entrusted Talbot's
papers, has approached the 1 task in, as toe trusts, the modern historic'
spirit. If he has erred, it has been on the side of a generous treatment,
for there are few to say the kind word to-day. It is for the romance
of his career that Talbot will be chiefly remembered, apart from the
fact of his being the eponymous founder of a famous settlement.

1 " Our Forest Home," page 90.



THE TALBOT PAPERS

GRANT BY KING EDWARD IV TO THOMAS TALBOT/ 8 MARCH, 1475.

(Indorsed). TEANSLATION of a Grant of the Manor of Mul-
laghide in the County of Dublin To Thomas Talbot Esquire dated the
8th of March 1475 in the 15th year of the Eeign of King Edward the
fourth.

EDWAED by the Grace of God King of England and France and
Lord of Ireland to all Archbishops Bishops Abbotts Priors Dukes
Earls Barrens Justices Sheriffs Portrives Ministers and to all Bailiffs
and Faithfull Subjects through our whole Kingdom of Ireland Greet-
ing Know ye that We of our special Grace and of our certain Know-
ledge and mere motion and allso on mature deliberation and with the
Assent of our Councel and with the Assent of our most dear Brother
George Duke of Clarence our Lieutenant of our land of Ireland 2 &c.
and for certain considerations Us thereunto Otherwise moveing We
have given and granted and for us our Heirs and Successors and accord-
ing to the Tenor of these presents We do give and grant and by this
our present Charter have confirmed To our dearly beloved and Faithfull
Thomas Talbot Esquire Who holds the Mannor or Lordship of Malla-
hide in Our- land of Ireland of us in Chief 'by Knights Service that he
and his Heirs may have hold and Eeceive All and Singular Customs
as well as Great as Small which to us our Heirs and Successors lately
were Due or Ought to x come or belong to us of Woole Hides Sheepeskines
Lead Tin and all and all Manner of Other Merchandize Coming to
the Town or Creeke of Mullay hide in the County of Dublin in Our
land of Ireland as well by Land as by Water or Coastwise or by an
arm of the Sea or Otherwise from thenceforth to be Taken and applied
And that the Afforesaid Thomas and His Heirs may have all the Cus-
toms Aforesaid of all Goods and Merchandize comeing in anny Ships



1 Thomas Talbot represented the tenth generation of lords of Malahide
in unbroken male line from Richard Talbot, chevalier, who had received
the manor and lordship in 1174 directly from King Henry II. Thomas died
23rd July, 1487.

51 Born in Dublin 14^9, when his father, Richard, Duke of York, was
Lord Lieutenant. Put to death by his brother, King Edward IV, in 1478.
In 1462 the latter had appointed him Lord Lieutenant of Ireland for life.
Clarence was a patron of Caxton, who dedicated his first book to him.



OO ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

or Boats below or to the Town Creeke or arm of the Sea Aforesaid and
Hereafter there to be loaded or unloaded Charged or discharged and
all such Woole Hides Sheepeskines Tin Lead and other the premisses
from the said Town Creeke or Arm of the Sea Aforesaid to Anny
our Citties or Towns of us our Heirs or Successors in our, said land
of Ireland may take and Carry away in Boats Barges or Lighters or
other Vessels Whatsoever or in anny other manner remove from the
Said Town of Mallaghide by land And that the Said Thomas and His
Heirs may Eeceive all the Customs Aforesaid and All Other Customs
or Duties Usually Accustomed to be Paid or Payable within our said
Land or in or Within any Other our Ports Cities or Towns of Our
land of Ireland Aforesaid nor may anny of the Officers or Ministers
of us Our Heirs or Successors within Our said Land Receive the Same
without the Impeachment of Us our Heirs or Successors or any of
our Justices Lieutenants Deputies or other Officers or Ministers of us
our Heirs or Successors in anny Manner Whatsoever and that the said
Customs of Us our Heirs or Successors within our said Land of Ireland
Towards Us our Heirs or Successors or our Justices Lieutenants or
other our Deputies therefrom Shall and may be Acquitted and Dis-
charged for Ever. To Have Levy and Recieve the Customs Aforesaid
to the aforesaid Thomas and his Heirs by His own proper hands or
that of his Ministers Servants or Officers Whatsoever for Ever And
that the said Thomas and His Heirs may have a private seal or seals
for the sealing of letters of Cocquet * for the Receipt of the Customs
on all kind of Merchandize Comeing to or Going from the said Town
Creeke or Arm of the Sea of Mallaghide - as well by Land as by Water
Coastwire or by Anny Arm of the Sea from Henceforth which said
Cocquets So by the Aforesaid Thomas or His Heirs Officers or Ministers
So Sealed and under the Seal or Seals Afforesaid Shall be sufficient
and Valid in law and of as much Authority as such Cocquets are made
and Sealed with in any other Cities or Towns of our land of Ireland

1 A custom house seal. Letters of Cocquet were sealed documents certi-
fying that goods had been duly entered.

1 According to Lewis' Topographical Dictionary of Ireland (1837), the
infet of Malahide is four miles from Howth, and extends four miles up the
country; it is dry at low water, but at high water vessels drawing ten or
eleven feet may enter the creek and lie afloat in the channel. At the
entrance is a bar having one foot at low water, and the channel is divided
by a gravel bank called Muldowney; both the channels are narrow and
tortuous, and are of dangerous navigation without the assistance of a pilot.
Malahide Castle commands a fine view of the town and Bay of Malahide.
Contiguous to the castle are the remains of the ancient church, for ages
the place of sepulture of the proprietors of the castle.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 61

Or As they heretofore Were or Hereafter Shall be without any account
or Return thereof or by any other inday To Us our Heirs or Successors
Lieutenants Justices or other Our Officers or Ministers of us Our Heirs
or Successors to be Recovered or paid for Over Any Statute Act Orden-
ance Provision or Restriction in our Kingdom of England or Our land
of Ireland or any Mandate to the contrary before this time made or-
dained or Provided as in future to be made Notwithstanding.

And further we have given and by these presents granted for us
Our Heirs and Successors to the Aforesaid Thomas and His Heirs the
Office of our Admiral of the Seas of us our Heirs and Successors at
the Town Creeke or Arm of the Sea of Mullaghyde Aforesaid in our
County of Dublin in our land of Ireland from Moldowne to the Water-
mill of the said Thomas and Allso the Office of our Admiral and that
of our Heirs or Successors Below the Town and Place Aforesaid To
Have And Hold the Same of us our Heirs and Successors Immediately
after the death of Robert Bolde Knight or by Restitution of our said
Letters Patent by the said Robert or by Resumpsion or Forfieture
deprivation of or any other cause matter or thing Whatsoever or by
any other lawful means to become vacant or into our Hands or our
Heirs or Successors or into the hands of our Lieutenants or Deputies
Justices of us our Heirs or Successors of our Land of Ireland or which
might Come to Happen or Belong thereto by Gift Disposial or Grant
of We our Heirs or Successors or by the Gift Disposial of or Grant of
anny our Lieutenants or Deputies or Justices of us Our Heirs or
Successors as aforesaid.

And that the said Thomas from Thenceforth for ever may be
Admiral of Us our Heirs or Successors within our Land aforesaid from
the Place and Town above specified and that no Admiral of us our
Heirs or Successors of Ireland or England for the time being from
Thenceforth any thing to the Office of Admiral belonging within the
said Town Creeke or Arm of the Sea aforesaid may Intrude them-
selves to Execute and Exercise hereafter Neether that the Vassals
Tenants or Stewards of the aforesaid Thomas or his Heirs within the
Town of Mallaghyde aforesaid or any of the Tennants or Residents
within the Town aforesaid to our Admiral or of our Heirs or Successors
whether English or Irish for the Time Being from Thenceforth in any
manner may be obedient or answer or in our courts or any or either
of them by any Manner of Means may answer nor be Compelled to
answer forever for any Trespasses Contracts or other Offences done or
to be done perpetrated or to be Perpetrated upon the High Sea or
Elsewhere but as well before the said Thomas or His Heirs or of his



62 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Deputies in a Court of Admiralty before the said Thomas or his Heirs
or their Deputy in the Town of MuKaghide aforesaid held or to be held.

And that the said Thomas and His Heirs may have full power
and Authority of hearing and determining and Correcting of all and
all manner of Trespasses Covenants Contracts or any other Offences
done or to be done up the High Seas or elsewhere by the Vassals or
Tenants of the said Thomas or his Heirs or any other the Tenants or
Residents in the aforesaid Town of Mullaghyde in a Court of Admiralty
before him the said Thomas or his Heirs or their Deputies held or to
be held.

And that the said Thomas and his Heirs may have All and Singu-
lar Amerciments Ransoms Issues Forfietures and all Things to be
Forfieted in a Court of Admiralty before hi mor his Heirs or their
Deputies within the Town or place aforesaid to be held Adjudged or
heard to be had Levied and Recieved by the said Thomas and his Heirs
by his own propper hands or of his Servants without any account or
Return thereof or in any other manner to Us our Heirs or Successors
Lieutenants or their Deputies Justices or other Officers whatsoever
or Ministers of Us our Heirs or Successors there for to ba Rendered
or paid for Ever any Statute Act Ordinance Provision or Restriction
m our Kingdom of England or Land of Ireland or any our Mandate
to the Contrary made or Provided or in future to be made notwith-
standing.

And further we will and have given for us our Heirs and Succes-
sors to the said Thomas and his Heirs for Ever that they may have
hold occupy and Recieve by himself or his deputies the Offices of
Keeper of the Ferries and Water-bailiff and allso of Gauger or searcher
within the town or Creeke or Arm of the Sea of Mullaghyde afforesaid
and all advantages and Profits to such Citie officers belonging after
such Officers or either of them by the death of William Armover or
by the Restitution of Letters Patent to the said William made thereof
or by the Resumpsion or forfieture or deprivation or by means of any
other cause matter or thing whatever or by any means become Vacant
or into the Hands of us our Heirs or Successors or into the Hands of
our Lieutenants or their Deputies or Justices of us our Heirs or Suc-
cessors of our said Land of Ireland may Come fall into or belong or
be in the Gift disposal of or grant of L T s our Heirs or Successors or
the Gift disposial of or Grant of our Lieutenants or their Deputies
or Justices of us our Heirs or Successors. To Have Levy and Recieve
the Same to the said Thomas and his Heirs by the propper hands of tjhe
said Thomas or his Servants without any account or any other Return
thereof in any manner to us our Heirs or Successors or our Lieutenants



[COYNB] THE TALBOT PAPERS 63

or Deputies or Justices of Us our Heirs or Successors or any other
our Officers or Ministers of Us our Heirs or Successors there for to
be Eendered or made for Ever any Statute Act Ordinance Provision or
Restriction in our Kingdom of England or in our land of Ireland by
our Mandate made Ordained or Provided to the contrary or in future
to be made Notwithstanding.

And further we have given and granted for us Our Heirs and
Successors that the said Thomas and his Heirs for ever may have hold
Occupy and receive by himself or by his Deputies . officers or Gaugers
within the Town Creek or Arm of the Sea aforesaid of Mullaghyde
aforesaid and all other advantages and Profits to such Officers belong-
ing Immediately after the said Officers become Vacant by the death of
Richard Ellis or by Restitution of our Lieutenant by the said Richard
made thereof or by the Resumption forfieture or withdrawing thereof
or by any other cause matter or thing whatsoever in anny other manner
become vacant or come to our hands or that of our Heirs or Successors
or to the hands of our Lieutenants or other our Deputies or Justices
of us our Heirs or Successors in our Land of Ireland or which might
happen to Come fall or belong to us by means of the donation dis-
position or Grant of us our Heirs or Successors or to the Gift Dis-
position or Grant of our Lieutenants Deputies or Justices of us our
Heirs or Successors.

To Have Levy or Recieve the Same by the said Thomas and his
Heirs to his own propper use or that of his servants without any account
or Return thereof or by any other means jnade to us Our Heirs or
Successors Lieutenant or Deputies or other our Officers or Ministers
to be Rewarded or made for ever anny Statute Act or Ordinance Pro-
vision or Obstruction in our Kingdom of England or land of Ireland
or anny other Mandate to the contrary made ordained or provided or
in future to be made Notwithstanding.

And further we do grant and give for us our Heirs and Successors
to the afforesaid Thomas and his Heirs for Ever all that Sea-coast
from the place called Moldowne to the Water-mill of him the said
Thomas at Mullaghide Together with all and every profits thereof
whatsoever comeing Thereto in manner and form and as We had if
this Grant had never been made To Hold Levy and Receive the same
to the said Thomas and his Heirs by his own propper hands or of his
Servants So that no person coming in Ships or Boatts into the said
Arm of the Sea at Moldowne aforesaid or to the mill aforesaid may
for Ever Pay anny of the Customs To any Person or Persons but only
to the said Thomas or his Heirs without any account or any return or
in any other manner to us our Heirs or Successors or Lieutenants or



64 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

other our Justices or Deputies or any Other Ministers or Officers of us
Our Heirs or Successors there for to be Rendered or made for Ever any
Statute Act Ordinance Provision or Mandate of us to the contrary
made or ordained or provided or in future to be made notwithstanding.

And further we do give and grant for us our Heirs and Successors
to the Afforesaid Thomas Who of us Holdeth in Chief by Knight's
Service the Mannor of Mullaghyde aforesaid in our County of Dublin
in our Dominion of Ireland and who now oweth Homage to Us for
his Mannor aforesaid by reason of the Teanure aforesaid that he may
have the respect of his Homage for the term of Fifty years next after
the date of these presents So that neither we our Heirs or Successors
Sherriffs Escheators or any other of our Officers or Ministers of Us
our Heirs or Successors the said Thomas for his homage aforesaid
during the term aforesaid many not be disturbed nor in any manner
molested.

And also we grant for us our Heirs and Successors that the afore-
said Thomas by us our Heirs or Successors or Officers or Ministers of
us our Heirs or Successors whatsoever may not be obliged nor Com-
pelled to take upon him the Order of Knighthood contrary to his will.

And also we give and grant to the aforesaid Thomas and his Heirs
for Ever that they may have Out fangthoff 1 and affree warren 2 in
his mannor or Lordship of Mullaghyde aforesaid So that no one may
Enter the Mannor or Lordship aforesaid to Hunt therein or to take
any thing which to afree warren belongeth without the Licence of the
said Thomas under Forfieture of Ten pounds one half of which we
Will to be Leveyed and Retained to our use and the other half of us
our Heirs and Successors to be levyed and applied to the use of the
said Thomas and his Heirs.

And allso we do give and grant for us our Heirs and Successors
that he the said Thomas and his Heirs and all his Vassals and Tenants
or any other Residents in the said Mannor or Lordship that whether
he or they shall or may be Compelled or Restrained to answer the Sher-
riffs Court in the County of Dublin.

And further we give and grant for us our Heirs and Successors
to the aforesaid Thomas and his Heirs that he and his Heirs may have

1 Or outfangtheff. A privilege whereby a lord was enabled to call any
man dwelling on his manor, or taken for felony In another place, to answer
In his own court.

'Warren, a franchise, either by prescription or royal grant, to keep In
an enclosure "beasts and fowls of warren," that Is, animals that are by
nature wild.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 63

and hold in the aforesaid town of Mullaghide a View * of Frank pledge
by his Seneschal and Leet and Landays together with all things to
them or either of them Appertaining and with all other Advantages and
profits Arising therefrom and to a view of Frank pledge Appertaining
or to 'either of them Belonging To Hold Levy and Receive the same
to the us'e of the said Thomas and his Heirs for their own propper
hands or that of their servants without any account or any other return
thereof or in any other manner to us our Heirs or Successors or any
or Either of our Deputies Justices or Servants of us our Heirs or
Successors there for to be Rendered or made for Ever anny Statute
Act Ordinance Provisoe or Mandate to the contrary made Ordained or
provided or in future to be made Notwithstanding.

. And further we do give and grant for us and our Heirs and
Successors to the said Thomas and his Heirs that he and his Heirs
as well in our presence and of that our Heirs and Successors as in our
absence and that of our Heirs and Successors by themselves or by their
servants in the Mannor or Lordship aforesaid may have and hold an
Assize 2 for Strengthening and Correcting the Assize of Bread Wine and
Ale and of all other kind of Victuals and of Measures and "Weights
Whatsoever and All other Matters to the Office of Escheator 8 or Clarke
of the Market and Inns of Us our Heirs and Successors thereunto
belonging and Punishing for the same and of Doing and Exercising
whatsoever to the same belongeth when and as often as shall be found
necessary so farr and as fully as any Clarke of the Market of us and
our Heirs might or ought to do in our presence or that of our Heirs
And that the aforesaid Thomas and His Heirs may have all Amerce-
ments Fines and other Profits therefrom Arising to be received and
levied by him and his Servants" without Impeachment of us our Heirs
and Successors or our Ministers whatsoever without any account or
Return thereof or by any other means to us our Heirs or Successors
or our Lieutenants or their Deputies and Justices or any other officers
or Ministers of us our Heirs or Successors whatsoever there for to be



1 View, an official inspection ; Frank pledge, a system of mutual surety-
ship that required all men to combine in associations of ten to stand as
sureties for each other's good behaviour; Seneschal (etymologically, old
servant), steward, presiding officer or military commander; Leet, petty crim-
inal court for manor; Landays (Land-Tag), a local representative council.

'Assize, standard of weight, measurement price, &c.; hence size, mea-
surement, dimensions.

'Escheator, a county official, who looked after escheats (or forfeitures),
and certified them to the treasury.

Sec. II., 1907. 5.



66 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Kendered or made for Ever any Statute Act Ordinance Provision or
Mandate of us to the Contrary made ordained or Provided or in future
to be made Notwithstanding So that the aforesaid Clerke of the Market
Or Escheator in Ireland of us our Heirs or Successors may not enter
into the Mannor or Lordship aforeside of Mullaghyde to do or Execute
there any thing to the said office or Officer in Any manner Appertaining

We have given moreover and granted for us our Heirs and
Successors to the said Thomas and his Heirs that he and his Heirs
may have forever the Keturn of our Writts or Precepts and of our
Heirs and Successors and the Execution of all such Writts or Precepts
as well as of those which touch us our Heirs and Successors an deither
of them at the Suit of us our Heirs or Successors as any other Writts
or Precepts whatsoever in the said Manner or Lordship So that no
Sherriff Bailiff or Minister or any other officer Whatsoever of us our
Heirs or Successors may enter the said Manor or Lordship for the
Execution of any Writt or Precept Summons or any Attachment Pleas
of our Crown or of any other pleas Whatsoever to be there done unless
in default of the said Thomas or His Heirs or Ministers.

And further of our special grace We have given and Granted for
us our Heirs and Successors to the said Thomas and his Heirs that
he the said Thomas and his Heirs and the Tennants of his said Mannor
or Lordship shall not be Collectors of any of our taxes or Subsidies
granted or to be granted to us our Heirs or Successors or to the
Lieutenants Deputies or Justices of us our Heirs or Successors how-
soever.

And further of our special grace we have given and Granted for
us our Heirs and Successors to the said Thomas and his Heirs for ever
that no Sheriff Bailiff or other Ministers of us our Heirs or Successors
or Either of them may Attach Take or Distrain any of the Vassals
Tenants or Servants of the said Thomas or his Heirs or any of his
Dwellers or Residents whatsoever or any of our Leigemen or Foreigners
at that time dwelling in the said Mannor by virtue of any precept
or other warrant Cause or thing whatsoever within the County where
they are resident So that the Execution of such Writts precepts or other
warrants Whatsoever within the Mannor or Lordship aforesaid be done
by the said Thomas and his Heirs or Servants in due form if not made
by failure of the said Thomas his Heirs or Servants and although of
our officers or Servants aforesaid or the Servants of us our Heirs or
Successors Enter the said Mannor or Lordship aforesaid to do and
perform any thing contrary to the Previleges and Liberties by us in
our Letters Patent Granted to the said Thomas and his Heirs in form
aforesaid then it shall be lawful for the said Thomas his Heirs Ten-



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 67

nants and Servants in such case to oppose and Resist them without
impeachment of us our Heirs or Successors or Either of them What-
soever.

And further we do give and grant for us our Heirs and Successors
to the said Thomas and his heirs that they may be for Ever exonerated
and discharged of all fines as well by Grant of Confisiation of us our
Heirs and Successors .as by all other Charters Letters Patents and
Writts of us our Heirs and Successors to the Aforesaid Thomas and
his heirs Made or to be made and allso for all Fees for our Sealing
thereof and of our Heirs and Successors Whatever in all our Courts
in our Land of Ireland as before as our Heirs and Successors in Our
Chancery of us Our Heirs and Successors or the Justices of our Com-
mon Bench and others as before the Treasurer and Barrens of us our
Heirs and Successors.

And further of our more abundant Grace We have given and
Granted for us our Heirs and Successors to the said Thomas and his
Heirs for Ever that they shall not be Sherriffs nor Coroners or Eschea-
tors of our Counties of Dublin Meath Kildare or Louth in our Land
of Ireland for Ever against their will.

We have granted moreover and given for us our Heirs and
Successors to the said Thomas and his Heirs for Ever that they may
Have and Hold and from Thenceforth for Ever may have power to
determine according to Law all Matters within the Courts of him
the said Thomas and His Heirs within the Mannor or Lordship of
Mullaghyde aforesaid in Our Land of Ireland and County of Dublin
before the Senischall of him or his Heirs all and All manner of pleas
as well real as Personal of Assize or Mixet whatsoever or Whatever
sums they may account Hereafter there to be held. And that the said
Thomas and his Heirs all such like Pleas in his Court saforesaid and
may have hold hear and determine the Same by Plaints or by Bill
before the Senischall of him or His Heirs for the time being and from
Time to Time and as often as to them shall seem expedient and that
they may have power to prosecute all persons who by such Plaint or
Process of' Law may be moved against and may allso have power to
Arrest and Attach their Bodies Goods and Chattels within the Liberties
and Precincts of the Lordship or Manor Aforesaid and Such their
Bodies may commit to prison for Ever and may have Authority to
make due Execution thereof.

We have granted also and given for Us our Heirs and Successors
that the aforesaid Thomas and his Heirs from Henceforth for Ever
may have and hold all and every the places aforesaid before his Senes-
chall or Seneschalls and also a View of Frank pledge Leets and Landays



68 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

as afforesaid and a Court Barron 1 together with all Things to the Same
or Either of them Belonging as often as to them or Either of them
shall seem expedient within the Manor or Lordship of Mullaghyde in
our County of Dublin and Land of Ireland aforesaid (altho the Justices
of us our Heirs or Successors or the Itinerant Justices holding pleas
before us our Heirs or Successors or any other our Justices who may
there come or there may ajied up the Holding of any Pleas Whatever)
without the Impeachment of us our Heirs or Successors or any other
officers of us our Heirs or Successors Whatsoever.

And that the said Thomas and his Heirs may have hold and
Receive all manner of Fines and Amendments Issues and by m'eans of
any Forfieture Whatsoever in the Court aforesaid made before any his
S'eneschall or Seneschalls from thenceforth to him and his Heirs to
his own propper hands or that of his Servants to be Taken without
any account or any other Return therefor or in any other manner to
us our Heirs or Successors Lieutenants Deputies or Justices or other
our officers or Ministers of us Our Heirs or Successors to be Rendered
or paid for Ever any Statute Act Ordinance provision or Restriction
to the contrary made ordained or Provided or in future to be made
Notwithstanding.

And also We have Given and Granted for us our Heirs and
Successors to the said Thomas and his Heirs that he the said Thomas
and his Heirs from Henceforth for Ever may have Cognizance of
All and all manner of Pleas as well Real as Personal and of Assize
and Mixt in and from Every our Courts and before All our Justices
as well before us our Heirs and Successors in the Chancery of us our
Heirs or Successors of our Bench and any of our treasurers or Barrens
of us our Heirs and Successors of our Exchequer Sherriffs Escheators
Admirals Coroners Clerk of the Market as before the Keepers of the
Paie of us our Heirs or Successors in our land of Ireland of anny
other Cause matter or thing within the Manor aforesaid or the Pre-
cincts thereof Howsoever arising or happening and upon Such their
pleas in the Courts afforesaid before his Seneschall may hear and deter-
mine and may have authority to put the same in due Execution from
Thenceforth and from time to time According to the Laws and Cus-
toms of our Kingdom of England there to be done though the said
Thomas and his Heirs may be Parties Complainants or Defendants.

And also we have given and granted for us our Heirs and
Successors for Ever to the afforesaid Thomas and his Heirs for Ever
that they may Take and Receive in their Courts aforesaid by his

1 A Court held by a steward of a manor for settling controversies between
tenants, punishing misdemeanours, &c.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 69

Seneschall or Sen eschalls aforesaid and before such Seneschall or
Senischalls may take cognizance of all Complaints of Menaces against
us or our people or of us Our Heirs or Successors of Assaults of their
Bodies or of House Burning and may make them give good and sufficient
security for their Paie and Good Behaviour Towards us and our people
and of our Heirs to he taken before our S'eneschall or Seneschalls afore-
said for the time being and if such securities shall be found Insufficient
then there to Keepe in Prison within the Manor aforesaid until they
find such security may Keepe them in safe custody when and as often
as it shall be found necessary.

And also we have given and granted for us and our Heirs and
Successors to the said Thomas and his Heirs all Amerciments Eansoms
for any escapes of Fellons Fugitives or Murderers done or to be done
in the County of Dublin assessed or to be assessed presented or to be
presented by the said Thomas or his Heirs Vassals Tenants or
Eesidents within the Manor or Lordship of Mullaghide to the use of
us our Heirs or Successors on that account Shall be had Levied and
Eeceived by the said Thomas and his Heirs by his own propp'er hands
or that of his Servants without any account or Eeturn thereof to us
our Heirs or Successors to be Eendered or made there for So that
Neither the said Thomas nor his Heirs nor anny of his Tennants or
Eesidents within the Precincts of the Lordship of Mullaghide aforesaid
of any part of such E'edemption or Amerciments or any such like Escape
Towards us Our Heirs and Successors in any Manner shall or may be
charged or any of them shall be charged but from all such Escapes
against us Our Heirs or Successors may be for Ever acquitted for Ever.

And moreover we do give and grant for us and our Heirs and
Successors to the said Thomas and his heirs Liberty of going out of
our Land of Ireland to any parts he pleases to Eeside in and out of
our said Land of England to go and at his pleasure to Eeside in and
Therefrom in Eeturn as often as to him shall Seem meet without any
Hindrance or Disturbance of us Our Heirs or Successors or the officers
of us or Servants of us our Heirs or Successors whatsoever any Statute
Act Ordinance Provision or Eestriction of us to the Contrary time
heretofore made ordained or Appointed or in future to be made Not-
withstanding.

And further we have given and granted for us our Heirs and
Successors to the said Thomas and his Heirs all Amercements Fines
and Eedemptions Issues Forfietures and all to be Forfieted as well
of the said Thomas and his Heirs as all his Vassals and Tenants and
Others as well Tenants as Eesidents of and in the Lordship Town and
Manor aforesaid in any Courts or before any our Judges within our



7O ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Realm of Ireland forfieted adjudged or determined or held or to be
held in any other manner as well before us our Heirs and Successors
in the Chancery of us our Heirs and Successors and the Justices of our
Common Bench and of our Treasurers and Baronns of us our Heirs
and Successors of our Exchequer Sheriffs Escheators Admirals Coroners
Clarkes of the Market as before any of our Keepers of the Paie of
us our Heirs and Successors in our said Land of Ireland to be held
levied and recieved to the use of the said Thomas take all the afore-
said Amerciments Fines Redemptions and Issues for ever by his own
propper hands or that of his Officers or Servants without any account
or any Return thereof or in any other manner to us our Heirs or
Successors or Lieutenants Deputies Justices or any other Officers or
Ministers of us Our Heirs or Successors there for to be Rendered or
made for Ever Any Statute Act Ordinance Provision or Restriction
of us to the Contrary made Ordained or Provided in our Land of
England or in our Land of Ireland in Future to be made Notwith-
standing.

And moreover of our more abundant grace We have Pardoned
Remitted and Released the said Thomas and his Ameftors from all
manner of Gifts Alienations and Provisions by them or Either of
them Arising out of any of their Lands Tenements or held by us or
our Progenitors heretofore Kings of England by means of any other
Defect or not held by Right of any other our Kings in Capite.

And we have further of our more abundant grace Granted for ug
our Heirs and Successors to the Aforesaid Thomas and his Heirs that
they may have hold and for ever Take and may allso have power and
Authority to take and Recieve for all kinds of Wares Comeing for
Sale to the said Town of Mullaghide as well by Land as by Sea or
Arm of the Sea aforesaid and from Thenceforth Issuing out of the
Same the Duties and Customs under Written To Witt for Every
Cramock of Corn Meal or Salt Comeing for Sale one Halfpenny for
Every Cramock of Wode for Sale Two pence for Every Cramock of
Corke or the like for Sale One Penny for Every Cramock or Barrel
of Tan or Bark Comeing for Sale One Farthing for Every Twelve
Cramocks or Barrels of all manner of Coals fourpence for Every Twelve
Barrels of Lime for Sale one penny for Every horseman Hobby 1 Ox
or Cow comeing for Sale One penny for 'every five Hoggs for Bacon
one penny for Every dozen of Fleeces of Woole for Sale one halfpenny
for Every Twenty Gross of Fish for Sale one halfpenny for every
hundred groce of Fresh Water Eels one penny for Every Salmon for
Sale one farthing for Every Lamper for Sale one farthing for Every

1 Hobby, an ambling nag or pony.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 71

hogsed of Wine or Cyder for sale fourpence for Every Cask of Honey
for Sale one penny for Every horse Hobby Bull or Cow hide fresh
Salt or Tanned for Sale One farthing for every hundred Skins of
Lambs Goats Hares Foxes Catts or Badgers for sale One Halfpenny
for Every Hundred Skins of Sheeps Goats Staggs Bissons or Does for
Sale One penny for Every dozen Martin Skins for Sale one penny
for Every Millstqne for Sale two pence for two Hand Millstones one
halfpenny for Every Groce of Sacks for Sale four pence for every
Horse Load or Mease x of Herrings for Sale one Halfpenny for Every
Horse-load of Ashes for Sale One penny for Every whole Cloth of
English Assize two pence for every twenty peices of Striped Cloth made
of Irish Woole Salewith or Worsted one halfpenny for Every Twenty
pieces of Striped or Streaked Cloth or Flax for Sale one penny for
Every Twenty peices of Striped Canvass for Sale one farthing for
Every Ten Caps made of Goats Hair for Sale one halfpenny for Every
peice of Tapestry Shalens or other coverings for Beds for Sale one
halfpenny for every cloth of Gold one penny for every peice of Cloth
of Cerue Bawdkyns 2 or Camblets for Sale One halfpenny for every
peice of Irish cloth for Sale one -half penny for every Horse-load of
Cloth or other Wares one halfpenny for every Bundle 3 of Iron for
Sale one halfpenny for every hundred Gadds * of Steel one halfpenny
for Every hundred pounds of pitch or Rosin for Sale one halfpenny
for every stone of Onions Tallow Butter or Cheese for Sale one Half-
penny for every Ten pounds of Onion S'eeds or Leeke Seeks for Sale
one penny for every thousand of Onions for Sale one farthing for every
bundle of Boards of any kind for Sale one Farthing for every hundred of
Small Boards for Sale one Farthing for every hundred of large Boards
for Sale one penny for every thousand of nails for Sale one halfpenny
for every hundred of Horse nails or Clouts for Carrs one halfpenny
for Every new basket or Hamper for Sale one farthing for every thou-
sand Wickers of Wood for Sale one halfpenny for every dozen Cordwans
Corwayes and Basyns 5 for Sale one halfpenny for 'every hundred weight
of Brass or Copper for Sale Two pence for every hundred of Knives

1 A measure of 500 herrings.

2 Cerue Bawdkyns, a rich brocaded silk fabric, with warp of gold and
silk filling; Camblets (camlets), camel's hair, imitation or substitute (as
mixed wool and silk), once much used for cloaks; Bolt of Syndons, a parti-
cular number of yards of a woven fabric of fine texture (muslin, cambric
or shawls, &c.)-

3 A definite measure or quantity. r,*, ,,,

4 Spikes, pointed bars, or wedge-shaped bars.

s Cordwans, Corwayes and Basyns (Cordovans), Spanish leather for boots
of the wealthy.



72 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Lancets &c for Sale one penny for every Ten Stone of Hemp or Flax
one Penny for Every hundred of Flaxen yam one penny for Every
Ten Flaggens of Olive or Kape Oile for the Use of men for Sale Two
pence and for every Ten Flaggens of Lamp Oile for Sale One Half-
penny for every dozen of Baltains for Sale one halfpenny for every
hundred of Sale Wode for Sale one penny for every hundred of Vitriol
for Sale one penny for -every hundred of White Vitriol for Sale one
penny for all manner of Wares of the Value of two shillings one half-
penny for every dozen of English Cloth or others Comeing from beyond
Sea for Sale Two pence for every kind of Carrs Carts or Tables of the
Value of Two Shillings for Sale one halfpenny for every dozen Pounda
of Wax for Sale one penny for every pound of Ginger for Sale one
halfpenny for vjvery pound of Saffron for Sale one penny for every
pound of Pepper for sale one farthing for every pound of Galingal
cloves Mace Grains of Paradise for Sale one halfpenny for all kinds
of Spice of the value of Twelve pence one farthing for every hundred
pounds of Almonds or Raisins Two pence for every Traile of Figs or
Raisins for Sale One halfpenny for every hundred of Alum for Sale
Two pence for every Bolt of Elisanders for Sale one Halfpenny for
every Groce of Hinges for Sale one penny for Every hundred Stone of
Iron for Sale Two pence for every hundred Slabbs or Piggs of Iron
for Sale One penny for every hundred Stone of Spanish Iron for Sale
Four pence for every Load of Tin for Sale one penny for Every leaden
Vessel for Sale one Halfpenny for every hundred pound of Scroos for
Sale one penny for every Dozen Coulters or Ploughshars One Penny
for every Pipe of Wine for Sale Two Pence For every half pipe of
Wine One penny for Every Calf for Sale one farthing for every Hogg
or Goat for Sale one farthing for Every Cramock or Barrel of Salt
for Sale one halfpenny for every last or Dicker x of Hides for Sale
sixpence for every Hide of Leather of the Value of Twelve pence for
Sale one farthing for every Hyde of Tanned leather for sale one half-
penny for every kind of ware of the value of twelve shillings of which
no mention is made for sale one penny for all kinds of Goods not
above mentioned of the value of Ten shillings for Sale One Halfpenny
To Have Recieve Levy and Collect the Customs of all the afforesaid
wares To the said Thomas or his Heirs for Ever by his own propper
hands or that of his Servants without any account or other Return
or in any other manner to us our Heirs or Successors or our Lieutenants
or other our Deputies or Justices or any other our Officers or Ministers
of us our Heirs or Successors to be Rendered paid or made therefore



1 Dicker, Ten.



[COYNH] THE TALBOT PAPERS 73

for Ever any Statute Act Ordinance Provision or Eestriction in our
Kingdom of England or in our Land of Ireland or any other our
Mandate to the contrary thereof Made Ordained or Provided or in
future to be Made Notwithstanding.

And further of our special grace aforesaid we have granted for
us our Heirs and Successors to the aforesaid Thomas and his Heirs
and Tenants of the Lordship or Manor aforesaid that none of them
from Henceforth may be put or impanneled upon any Juries Inquisi-
tions Kecognizance or other wise However touching us our Heirs or
others Whatsoever for Ever out of the said Town or Lordship.

We will allso and do give and grant for us our Heirs and
Successors that it Shall be lawful for the aforesaid Thomas and his
Heirs that Notwithstanding .the Liberties or Previleges aforesaid or
anny or Either of them have been abused or not used through mischance
or Negligence or from any other cause arising as to then may seeme
expedient on account of such misusing of such the Liberties and
Previleges aforesaid or anny or Either of them they shall not be
hindered impeached molested or in any manner aggrieved Whatever.

Wherefore we Will and firmly enjoining Command for us our
Heirs and Successors that the aforesaid Thomas and his Heirs for
Ever May Have and Hold all the Liberties and Previleges aforesaid
will Truly and in Paie and that they and every of them may fully
enjoy the same as aforesaid without any other occasion or Impediment
of our Heirs or Successors or our Justices Escheators Sherriffs Coroners
or any other our Bailiffs or Ministers.

We grant also for us our Heirs and Successors to the said Thomas
Talbot and his Heirs that if these our present Letters patent as to the
Premisses or any of them shall be found Invalid or Insufficient in Law
or for any other Cause or Hereafter niay happen to be found Invalid
or Insufficient in law by reason of any resumption or Authority of
Parliament in England or in our land of Ireland hereafter to be held
or for any other cause Whatsoever that then our Chancellor of England
or Chancellor of Ireland of our Heirs and Successors for the Time
being to the said Thomas or his Heirs Such the like and as many
Letters Patent anew to be made Valid Sufficient and in due form of
law bearing date year and day of the perfection of the Same under
our Great Seal of England or under the Great Seal of our Kingdom
of Ireland Shall cause to be made and delivered without any prosecu-
tion by Bill under our Privy Signet or Signets there for by Command
of us our Heirs and Successors we cause to be made Such and so many
as to him the said Thomas or his Heirs Shall seeme necessary on his
behalf and this Without any fine to us our Heirs and Successors to be



74 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

made or paid Except only the Sum of Twenty Shillings and four pence
for the Fee of the Great Seal of us our Heirs or Successors So that
Express mention of the true annual value of the Premisses or any other
value of Premisses of any other Gifts or Grants to the aforesaid Thomas
or his Ancestors by us or any of our Progenitors heretofore made by
these presents or in no wise made any Statute Act Ordinance Restric-
tion Use Custom or provided in our Land of England or in our Land
of Ireland to the Contrary thereof made Ordained Used or Provided
or any other cause matter or thing whatsoever Notwithstanding.

Witness to these the most Venerable Father in Christ Thomas *
Cardinal Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Bishop of Lincoln our
Chancelor of England and our most Dear Brothers George Duke of
Clarence and Richard Duke of Glocester and allso of our most Dear
Cousin Henry Essex our Treasurer of England and Anthony Rivers
Chief Purveyor of England Earl Delewere and To our Faitrfull Thomas
Russel Clerk Keeper of our Private Seal and Thomas Stanly of Stanly
Senischall of our Household and William Hastings Chamberlain of our

1 Thomas Bourchier, born 1404 (?), died 1486; Archbishop of Canterbury,
1454; Chancellor of Oxford University 1434; Lord Chancellor, 1455-56; a
Lancastrian, but crowned King Edward IV, 1461 and his queen, Elizabeth,
1465; nominated Cardinal 1467, Installed 1473; one of the four arbitrators
to whom the differences between England and Prance were referred by th*
Peace of Amiens, 1475; officiated at coronation of Richard III, 1483, and at
marriage of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York, 1486.

Richard, Duke of Gloucester, afterwards King Richard III.

Henry Essex, i.e., Henry Bourchier, first Earl of Essex, brother of the
Cardinal Archbishop, was lieutenant-general under the Duke of York in
France, 1440. He married Isabel, aunt of King Edward IV. Treasurer of
England, 1455-6y and 1471 to 1483; created Earl of Essex, 1461; died 1483.

Anthony Rivers, i.e., Anthony Woodville, 2nd Earl Rivers, born 1442 (?);
succeeded his father, Richard, 1st Earl 1469; died, 1483. His mother was
Jacquetta, widow of John of Lancaster, Duke of Bedford. A Lancastrian,
he went over to Edward IV, who loaded him with honours.

He wrote several translations from the French, which were issued by
Caxton.

Thomas Stanly, 1st Earl of Derby, born 1436 (?), died 1504; succeeded
his father, Thomas, as 2nd Baron Stanly, 1459; married Eleanor Neville
before 1460. Held commands in France, 1475, and Scotland, 1482; married
for second wife about 1482, Margaret Beaufort, Countess of Richmond; held
various offices and honours under both Yorkist and Lancastrian kings; neu-
tral at battle of Boaworth Field, 1485; but crowned the victor, Henry VH,
who created him Earl of Derby.

William Hastings, born 1430 (?), created a peer 1461 by Edward IV;
Lord Chamberlain, 1461-1483; commanded troops in France 1475; opposed
Rivers on accession of Edward V; beheaded by Richard of Gloucester, 1483.
(As t<* circumstances of his execution, see the various histories, and espe-
pially Shakespeare's Richard III). ,



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 75

Household Knights and others Given under our Hand at Westminster
the Eighth day of March in the fifteenth year of our Reign.

Fryston.

By the King himself and of the date aforesaid by Authority of
Parliament.

L. S.

In rolled among the Rolls of the Chancelor of the Exchequer of
our Lord the King the Eigth day of March in the Fifteenth year of
the Reign of King Edward the Fourth Pleaded and Allowed that
William Talbot now of Mullaghide Shall not be made Sherriff Coroner
Escheator of the Counties of Dublin Meath Kildare or Louth. Among
the Memorandums of the Exchequer of our lady the now Queen of
Ireland To Witt Among the Records of the Term of Saint Hillery in
the year of the reign of our Lady Queen Elizabeth the fifth On Behalf
of the Chief Remembrances of the Exchequer aforesaid.

DRAYCOTT; R R.

Colonel Talbot to H.R.H. the Duke of Cumberland.
Archives Series Q, Vol. 291 2 p. 517.

gj r Skitteewaabaa, 1 Upper Canada, May 16th, 1801.

Although I am separated from England by some thousands of miles
Your Royal Highness will find that I am not beyond reach of proving
troublesome, to which intrusion I am led, by command of Your Royal
Highness, when you condescended so far to interest yourself in my
welfare, as to desire that in whatever manner I could find your influence
necessary to solicit it. I am now to have the honour to acquaint Your
Royal Highness of my safe arrival in my favourite Settlement after
the most propitious passage and as I am persuaded that Your Royal
Highness will be satisfied, I will add, I find my situation quite what
I could have wished but I have one request to make which, if Your
Royal Highness will have the goodness to exert yourself in carrying
into effect, will complete my happiness in this world.

Owing to sonre neglect of General Simcoe's, I find that the neces-
sary Warrants for my lands, were not issued previous to his quitting
the Government of this province, and since then there have been new
regulations adopted which renders the possession of lands more expen-
sive and difficult of obtaining than when I left the Province in 1794, 2

'Probably the mouth of Kettle Creek, where Is now the Village of Port
Stanley.

* Talbot left Upper Canada about the 20th June, 1794, to join his regi-
ment, the 85th, of which he was Major.



76 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

and as I flatter myself, that Your Royal Highness will admit that I
am as loyal a Subject and equally entitled to the Degree of Hidalgo
as other adventurers in a new country, I throw myself on Your Royal
Highness's power to have it confirmed, and to prevent its producing
discontent, I will beg leave to point out a mode for its execution. There
are parcels of land under the name of Townships granted in this coun-
try to Heads of Societies, which possibly may in time prove beneficial
to the proprietor, now what I have to petition to Your Royal Highness,
is that you will have the goodness (I may add charity) to ask of the
King the grant of a Township in the Province of Upper Canada for
yourself, exempted from the fees to Government and obligations of
location for instance, The Township of Houghton l in the County of
Norfolk on Lake Erie, or any other adjacent one, which may not b&
already granted. Which, when Your Royal Highness has procured His
Majesty's Patent for, it must be transmitted through the Secretary of
State for the Home Department to the Governor and Council of the
Province of Upper Canada, in order that the necessary Provincial
Deeds may be made out for possession Your Royal Highness can on
receiving the Royal Patent, make a legal tranfer of the Grant to me,
and permit me to request that you will have the goodness to cause
duplicates to be made of the transfer, as the conveyance of letters to
this Country is irregular and uncertain. My Sister Barbara 2 will
take charge of them or any other Communication Your Royal Highness
may honour me with, she having the directions how to forward them.

I have pointed out the Township of Houghton as it is situated
near to my place of residence. Should Your Royal Highness succeed,
I will have infinite happiness in paying my duty personally to express
my very great obligation for the protection afforded to the once Gay
Tom Talbot, it will materially assist me, Your Royal Highness's man-
aging so, that the Grant is exempted from the usual fees to Govern-
ment, which there cannot be any difficulty in effecting, it being a Royal
Patent.

I promise myself the enjoyment of every comfort in this Country
excepting that material one, of seeing those I most respect and love,
a small income provides the necessary luxuries in this Province to a
Settler as his own industry and labour procures him provisions. I
am out every Morning at Sun-rise in my smock frock felling and burn-

1 Houghton was then understood to include not only the township now
so-called, but also Bayham and Malahlde. The adjacent one, which was
then in Talbot's mind, was Yarmouth, as appears by the correspondence pub-
lished! In U. C. Sessional Papers for 1836, No. 22.

"Talbot's eldest sister, who married Sir William Young, Bart., M.P. Sir
William was appointed Governor of Tobago, where Lady Young died In 1830.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 77

ing the Forest to form a farm; could I but be seen by some of my
St. James's friends when I come home to my frugal supper as black
as any chimney sweeper They would exclaim, " What a damn'd block-
head you have been, Tom," but I say, no, as I actually eat my homely
fare with more zest than I ever did the best dinner in London it is
time that I should beg a Thousand pardons for this intrusion, but I
am satisfied of the goodness of Your Koyal Highness's heart, and sin-
cerely praying that you may experience every blessing of this life, I
have the honour to be with the most unfeigned gratitude,

Your Eoyal Highness's

Most Dutiful

and Faithful Servant,

THOMAS TALBOT.
To H.E.H. The

Duke of Cumberland, 1
In H.K.H. the Duke of Kent's, of
llth October, 1801.



H.E.H..the Duke of Kent to Lord Hobart.

Archives Series Q, Vol. 291, p. 514.

(Indorsed.)

His Eoyal Highness
The Duke of Kent.

Castle Hill Lodge, Middlesex,
My Lord, llth October, 1801.

It is at the request of my Brother, the Duke of Cumberland, that,
as Secretary of. State, for the Colonies, I trouble Your Lordship with
the inclosed. 2 It is a letter to him from Colonel Talbot, late of the
5th Eegiment of Foot, 3 who was very useful to General Simcoe, when
that respectable Officer was Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of Up-
per Canada. Your Lordship must understand that he is now retired
from the Service, and is busily occupied establishing himself as a settler
in Upper Canada. It appears he had a promise from General Simcoe
of Lands, at the tim'e they were together in that Country, but from
some oversight, the Warrants for putting him in possession of them,
were not made out, previous to the General's leaving North America,

1 The Duke of Cumberland, son of King George III, became King- of
Hanover, on the death of his brother, William IV, In 1837, the Salic law
preventing the accession of Queen Victoria to the Hanoverian throne. "A
harsh and narrow-minded despot" (Encycl. Brit., XI, p. 447).

* See the preceding letter, pages 75 to 77

8 Talbot had sold out on Christmas Day, 1800.



78 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

in. consequence of which, instead of obtaining the Lands, as would then
have been the case, exempted from fees to Government, and the Obliga-
tion of location, he will now be compelled, unless there is a special
order in his favour from the Secretary of State to the contrary, to
incur a considerable expense in order to get possession of his grant. To
obviate this, from his ignorance of the difficulty there is for any of
His Majesty's Sons to address him with a request of any sort, but more
especially of the nature of that which he points out, he has made an
Application to my Brother to ask for a Township in his own name,
to be hereafter transferred to him. But this is quite out of the ques-
tion, for the Duke of Cumberland by no means wishes, that his name
should appear in this Transaction, any farther, than that your Lordship
should know, he is extremely anxious, that whatever indulgence can
be shown Colonel Talbot should be afforded him, and that he will con-
sider himself personally obliged to you, by anything done in his favour.
The object therefore of this application is, to solicit your Lordship's
good offices, that an instruction may be sent, if not contrary to estab-
lished rules, to the Lieut.-Governor of the Provinces* of Upper Canada,
to make a Grant of a Townships to Colonel Talbot and preferably of
that which he himself has pointed out, exempted from Government
fees. The grounds, on which such an application is made in his favour,
are, in the first place, that had General Simcoe not omitted doing what
was necessary to complete his promise, before he left Canada, the Colonel
would then have become possessed of his lands on these terms, and in
the second, that the services he rendered General Simcoe while in that
Country, and the Opinion entertained of him by that excellent Officer
render him very deserving of this small indulgence.

I have now only to add that in meeting my Brother's wishes upon
this Subject, Your Lordship will also oblige Me, and I therefore flatter
myself, that, as far as in your power lays, you will be good enough to
attend to this application in behalf of Colonel Talbot, with sentiments
of high regard and esteem.

I remain,

My Dear Lord,

ever yours

most faithfully and

sincerely,

EDWARD. 1

The Right Honorable

Lord Hobart,

&c., &c., &c.

1 Edward. Duke of Kent, fourth son of King George III, and father of the
late Queen Victoria.



[COTNB] THE TALBOT PAPERS 79

(The following are copies of entries in one of Colonel Talbot's note books,
all in his handwriting) :

(On inside of cover, at opening of book)

Credit Sorter, six Dolrs, 4s. York for Hinton.

llth July 1804 lent Sorter to buy Tobacco, one Dolr.

13th July Sorter and Chase went to Kettle River to mow at a Dolr. per day

23d Sorter & David went to mow in the Ever. 1

15
4

20th July settled with Sorter, balance due him Is.
22d July 1804 lent Sorter 2 Dobs.

The following are the entries in the notebook.

N.Y.C.*



1804 JAMES WHITTON 8


B.


d.


25th June two pr of Socks


10




26th June to cash at Chippawa


8




Do. To Mr. Muirhead for chisels


10




28th June. Fort Erie, chalk lines


2




Do. Do two knives


4




6th July to cash


16




28th June to a pr. Shoes from Tim


10




15th Augt. cash


8




18th Do Do


8




llth Sept. Credit Corney Ellis 4 -.


11




4th Octr. To cash


5 10




24th Novr. To Youngs 5 bill of Sundries


5 12


6


Do. To Crooks 6 Do Do


89 19


7


Do. To Cummings Do


3 15


6


Do. To Nichol 7 fr Ser't Troute


3 8


6


Do. To an axe


18




28th Novr. To 130 Ib of beef @ 3d


1 13


6


Do. To 1 Bushl. of Salt


16





1 Abbreviation for Kettle River probably.

a New York Currency, 8 shillings to the dollar.

8 A Niagara carpenter and builder, employed by Colonel Talbot, to go to Port
Talbot to erect a dwelling, &c.

4 Cornwall Ellis, first settler at Port Rowan (about 1802), a great hunter and
trapper.

8 Probably " Young's Store," Vittoria.

Crooka Brothers, merchants of Queenston.

7 Probably Robert Nichol of Port Dover, afterward M.P.P. and Quarter Master
General of Militia during the war of 1812.



SO ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Dr. JAMES WHITTON. N.Y.C. B. d.

1804 Brought forward 116 7

4th Deer. To 1 Ib. Putty, 2s. & 1 Ib. Nails 2s 4

7th Deer. To Cash 2

18th Deer. To 1 Bushl. Indian Corn 4

19th Deer. To a Leg of Venison 2 6

28th Deer. To Whelan for Shoes 1 12

31st Deer. To 1 Bushl. Corn 4s 4

Do. To 1 Ib. Souchong Tea 14

1805

14 Jany. To Cash 1 8

12 Jany. To 1 Bushl Corn 4

17th Jany. To an axe 18

Do. To Credit Corney Ellis 1 16 6

27th Jany. To 1 Ib. Souchong Tea.. 14

29th Jany. To 1 Bushl. Indian Corn 4

31st Janv. To 1 Ib Nails '. 2

2nd. Febr. To 17 Ib. Beef @ 6 d 8 6

7th. Febr. To Cash 5 4

26th. Novr. To 217 Ib. of flour in Bar'l 2 '. . 4^

Do. " To Transport of Bar'l 1 2 3

12th. Feby. To 1 Bushl Corn 4



133 8 8

Dr. JAMES WHITTON. N.Y.C. B . d.

1805 Brought forward ................................ 133 8 8

14th Feby. To 1 Ib. Souchong Tea ............................ 14

18th Feby. To 1 Bushl. of Wheat ............................ 6

20th Feby. To 1^ Ib of Hogs lard, a ......................... 2 3

27th Feby. To 1 Bush of Wheat ............................. 6

2d March To 2 Bushl. of Wheat ........................... 12

2d March To 1 peck of Corn ............................... 1

Do. " To 1 Ib. Souchong Tea .......................... 14

3rd March To Cash ........... .......................... 1 4

4th March To 9 Ibs. of Salt Pork @ 9 d .............. ...... 6 9

20th March To 52^ Ib. of Flour @ 3d. % .................... 16 5

25th March To 1 Ib. Souchong Tea ........................... 14

30th March To 47 Ib. flour @ 3% ............. . .............. 14 gj

30th March To 4% Ib. of Muttn Suet @ Is ................... 4 9

3d Apl. To 3 Bushl. of Potas. @ 8s ................... 1 4

4th Apl. To 17 Ib. Pork @ 9d ............................ 12 9

6th Apl. To 1 Barl. of Flour ........................... 2 8

13th Apl. To 5 Ib. Pork @ 9d ............................ 3 9

15th Apl. To 4^ of sole Leather, 3d ....................... 1 \j

16th Apl. To 5 Ib. Pork @ 9d ............................ 3 9



144 17



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS




81


Dr. JAMES WHITTON


f* s -


d.


Brought forward


...144 17


11^


1805






19th Apl. To 1 Ib. Souchong Tea


... .; 14




22nd Apl. To Hinton for Potas


1 4




2nd May To 2^ Ibs hard Soap @ 2s


5




7th May To 1 Ib. Souchong Tea


... .. 14




9th May To 1 Barl. Flour


... 2 8




15th May To Cash for a Hoe


.; 6




18th May To Duncan McCall l


... 1 4




23d May To 15 Ib. Indian Meal @ 4d


5




26th May To Cash


16




28th May To 13 Ib. Pork @ 9d


9


9


31st May To Cash for a cow


16




1st June To Mr. Nichol for sundries in Ocr, 1804


17


lOJ^


4 June To 20^ Ib. Pork @ 9d


15


4 H


llth June To Cash


14


6


13th June To 46 Ib. Flour @ 3 d. ^


13


5


13th June To 14 Ib. Pork @ 9 d


10


6


15th June To 1 pr. Stockings


8






157 19


4*


Dr. JAMES WHITTON. N. Y. C.


s.


d.


1805 Brought forward


... 157 19


4^


17th June To 2 & ^Cotton check @ 6s. 6


13


10


17th June To 4yds. Shirting @ 6s. 6d


.... 1 6




17th June To 8 yds. cotton Shirting @ 6s


... 2 8




17th June To 1 oz. No. 18 & 1 oz. No. 8 @ 2s


4




19th June To 1 Ib Souchong Tea ,


14




19th June To 5 yds Shirting @ 6s


1 10




20th June To 20 Ibs. Flour @ 3^d


5


10


22nd June To Hinton for Bar'l Flour


.... 2 12




26th June To 17 Ibs. Pork @ 9d


12


9


1st July To 12 Ib. Pork @ 9d .-


9




3rd July To an adze


12




3rd July To 4 yds. mixed cloth @ 16s


... 1 12




3d July To lYi yds. B. Holland @ 4s


6




3d July To 24 Coat Buttons at 2d


4




5th July To 2 yds. Mixed cloth @ 16s


1 12




5th July To 1 yd. B. Hol'ds 4s. & list thread 2s


6




6th July To 17 Ib. Pork @ 9d


12


9


9th July To 1 Ib. Coffee


4




llth July To 9 Ibs. Pork @ 9d


6


9




174 10


*



1 Of Vittoria.

Sec. II., 1907. 6.



ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA



Dr.


JAMES WHITTON N. Y. C.


> 8'


d.


1805 Brought forward


....174 10


3^


13th July


To Wilson ye. Taylor


1 4





15th July


To Hinton for 1 Barl Flour


.... 3 4


..


16th July


To 9 Ibs. Pork @ 9d


6


9


17th July


To 1 Ib. Souchong Tea


14


..


20th July


To 10 Ib. Pork @ 9d


7


6


25th July


To 12 Ib. Pork @ 9d


9




30th July


To 12 Ib. Beef @ 6d


6




2d Augt.


To 12 Ib. Beef @ 6d


6




7th Augt.


To 1 Ib. Coffee


4




8th Augt,


To 16 Ib. Beef @ 6d


8




12th Augt.


To Yz Bushl. Wheat


4




13th Augt.


To 10 Ib. Beef @ 6d


5




15th Augt.


To Cash


1




16th Augt.


To 1 Bushl. of Wheat


8




22nd Augt.


To 13 Ib. Beef @ 6d


6


6


24th Augt.


To 9 Ib. Beef @ 6d


4


6


24th Augt.


To 1 quart Onandago Salt




6



184 8 Y

Dr. JAMES WHITTON. s. d.

1805 Brought forward 184 8 %

24th Augt. To Cash to Mirich 1

27th Autg. To 15 Ib Beef @ 6d 7 5

27th Augt To Yz Bushl. of Wheat 4

30th Augt. To 17 Ib. Beef @ 3d '. . 4 3

30th Augt. To 10 Ib. Beef @ 6d 5

4th Sepr. To 16 Ib. Beef @ 6d 8

8th Sepr. To Hinton 8

10th Sepr. To 6 Ibs. Beef @ 6d 3

10th Sepr. To ^ Bushl. of Wheat t N 4

12th Sepr. To 5^ Ib. Salt Beef @ 6d 2 9

14th Sepr. To 11 Ib. Salt Beef @ 6d 5 6

14th Sepr. To Wheat 1 peck 2 o

16th Sepr. To 8 Ib. Salt Beef @ 6d 4

18th Sepr. To ^ Bushl. of Wheat 4

19th Sepr. To 17^ Ib. Beef @ 6d. & 6^ Ib. Suet @ Is 15 3

25th Sepr. To 14 Ib. Salt Beef @ 6d 7

28th Sepr. To 1 Ib. 13 oz.. of Sole Leather 5 6

189 17 9!



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS




8


Dr. JAMES WHITTON, N. Y. C.


3,


d.


1805 Brought forward 189


17


9^


30th Sepr. To Mr. Bostwick for Lines


8




1st Octr. To 1 Barll. Flour 2


12




3rd Octr. To Cash 1


4




19th Octr. To 2 Pr. Socks @ 6s


12




21st Octr. To 1 pr. Stockings


8


. .


25th Octr. To ^ oz. Thread


1


t 9


29th Octr. To 1 Bu shl. of Wheat @ 8s


8




30th Octr. To 2 Bushl. of Wheat @ 8s


16




Novr. 2d To Cash


8




Novr. 5th To 10 Ib. Salt Beef @6d


5




Novr. 6th To 4 yds Forest Cloth @ 18s 3


12




Novr. 6th To 3 Skeins Cold. Threadi@2d




6


Novr. 7th To 2 yds. Forest Cloth @i!8s I


16




Nov. llth To 11 Ib. Salt Beef @ 6d


5


6


No. 12th To 14^ Ib. of Beef Tallow @ 6d


7


6


Novr. 12th To 1 Ib. Nails


2


. .


Novr. 14th To pd. Cramer yr Debt 9


9


3


212


12


6 y


Dr. JA.MES WHITTON N. Y. C.


s.


d.


Brought forward 212


12


6^


Novr. 17th To 8 Skeins Col'd Thread @ 2d


1


4


Novr. 18th To Hinton


6




Novr. 22nd To 1 Ib. Souch'g. Tea


14




Novr. 22d To 12 Ib. Beef @ 6d


6




Novr. 30th To 25 Ib. Beef @ 6d


12


6


3d Deer. To 2 quarts Salt @ Is


2




7th Deer. To 12 panes glass 7 by 8 @ 2s 1


4


. .


12h Deer. To 10 Ib. Beef @ 6d


5




14th Deer. To pd. John Smith 1 for work


9




17th. Deer To 3 Skeins of thread @ 2d




6


19th. Deer To Cash to Kitty


16




21st. Deer To 11 Ib. Beef @ 6d


5


6


23rd. Deer To 1 Ib. Souchong Tea


14




23rd. Deer To 1 peck of Salt


8




24th. Deer To 2 Promal Hand fs. @ 4s


8




27th. Deer To 1 Bushl. Indian Corn


6




31st. Deer To 17 Ib. Beef @ 6d. & 10 Ib. Suit @ Is


18


6


220


8


10.4



1 On 19th May 1807, Talbot claimed 200 acres on account of having sur-
rendered 50,,acres of his original grant to John Smith, and the claim was allowed
by Order in Council.



84 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

JAMES WHITTON. Dr. , s. d.



1806 Brought forward 22


8


IOM


4th Jany To 1 Bushl. Indian Corn


6




To Mr. Edwards of Niagara yr. debt 27


10





13th Jany To 14 Ib. Beef Suit rend'd @ Is


14




15th Jany To Yi Bushl. Indian Corn


3




17th Jany To 1 Bushl. Indian Corn


6




18th Jany To % Ib. Glue . .6/


1


6


20th Jany To. 1 Ib. Nails 2/


2




22nd Jany 17/- for 1 pr. Shoes


17




Do. To Soling 1 pr. Shoes Jas. Now 'd


3




23rd Jany To 11 yds. Printed calico @ 8s 4


8




Do. To 1 Ib. Souchong Tea 14s. & 2 Ib. Wool 8s 1


2




Do. 6 Skeins Col'd thread Is. & 3 skeins White 9d


1


9


25th Jany To 1 Bushl. Corn 6/-


6




27th Jany To 3 Ib. Hogs Lard @ 1/6


4


6


1806 JOSEPH SMITH.I Dr.






4th Febr. To 1 Bush. Corn 6/-


6





Do. To 1 Ib. Tea @ 14/-


14




1806 ISABELLA FINDLAY.


8.


d.


June 28th To 2 yds. cotton check @ 9/-


18




Do. To a paper pins 3/6


3


6


July 9th To 4 yds. Turkey cotton @ 9s 1


16




Ditto to 2 Skeins Nun's thread @ 3d ;




6


July 10th To 3 yds. Indian callico @ 4/6


13


6


July 10th To 1 Skein thread




3


July 19th Pd. Mrs. Lockard 6/-


6




16th Augt . To 8 yds. Prin'd. Cal'o @ 6/6 2


12




Do. To 4^ yds. Dimmity @ 10/- 2


5




Do. To 1 crooked comb 2/


2




18th Augt. To 1 Y & yd. Irish Linen @ 6/-


6


9


26th Augt. To Pd. Mrs. Lockard 3/-


3




30th Augt. To 3 yds. B. Hol'ds @ 4/-


12




Do. To 1 skein Nuns thread 3d




3


9th Sept. To 1 Skein Nuns thread @ 3d




3


Do. do. To pd. Mrs. Porter 10/-


10




10


9





i One of Talbot's men, who received a grant of 400 acres by Order in Council of
3d April 1806, and on Colonel Talbot's particular recommendation a further grant
of 800 acres by order dated 26th Jan. 1808. In 1809 he was appointed Constable
for Dunwich. On May 19, 1807 the Executive Council ordered a grant to Talbot
of 200 acres in respect of Joseph Smith, a settler to whom he had surrendered 50
acres of his original grant.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 85

1806 ISABELLA FINDLAT

hired 12th May @ 5 Dollrs pr month.
12th July hired for six months @ 5 $.
absent from work from 20th to 24th July.



I hereby engage to hire with Col. Thos. Talbot for space of three months from
the hereof. Given under my hand

Witness This 7th day of Augt. 1806

present her

Jos nuth Isabella X Findlay

mark

left my service the 13th Dec 1806

T. T.



Dr.


FANNY REED. N. Y. Cy.


s.


June


To 1 pr. Slippers 12/-


12


June 19th


To 4 Sk'ns. N. Thread @ 3d


1


June 23rd


To 1 yd cotton check 9/6


9


July 16th


To 2 yds. white calo. @ 4/6


9


July 22d


To 3 yds. white calo. @ 4/6 thread I,/-


, 14


Augt. 19th


To y z Ib. Tobaco. @ 4/-


2


Augt. 22d


To 1 Banda. Handf. 12/-


12


Sepr. 9th


To Cash 8/-Oct. 1 Ib. wool 4/-


12


Octr. 23rd


4 Skns. N. Thread @ 3d


1


Octr. 29th


To YI Ib. pepper 3,1- Knitg needls I/-


4


Novr. 7th


To Cash 4/- ^ Ib. Ginger I/-


5


Novr 16th


1 Darning needle 3d




Deer. 3d


To 1 Set Knitting needles I/- . . ,


1


Deer. 5th


To pd. Jo. Cook 9f-


9


Deer. 8th


To 1 pr. Shoes 17/6 ^ Ib. Tobo. @ 4/-


19


Deer. 31st


To 2 yds Imn. Sheeting @ 6/6


13


1808






Jany. 6th


To 7'yds. im. Sheeting @ 6/6


... 2 5


Jany. 9th.


% Ib. Tobao. @ 41-


2


Feby. 4th.


To 4 Skeins N. thread @ 3d


1


Feby. 5th.


To 2 Ib. Hogs Lard @ 1/6


3



d.



16



ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA



DR. FRANCES REED


d.


d.


1808 To amount brought forward


... 8 16


3


Feby. 20th To 1 Shawl 16/


16




Feb. 20th To 1 pr. Slippers 12/6


12


6


Feb. 27th To Cash 8/


8




March 14th H Ib. Tobacco @ 4/


2




March 17th To pd Archmiler 2 q'ts whis'y 5/


5




March 20th pd T. Coates Cash 16/


16




March 29th 1 pr Wool cards 7/6


7


6


Apl. 1st pd Dunbar Davis 3/


3




April 6th Cash to Myres 16/


16




April 18th To 1 Ib B. Tea 8/-^ Ib pepper @ 6/


11




Do 7^ M. Sugar @ I/ 1 Qt Mug 6/


13


6


Do Yi doz. Knives & Forks @ 8/


4




Do 1J4 yd Blue Cloth @ 36/


2 5




Do y yd B. Hold @ 4/ Silk 2/ thred I/


4




April 19th Two Ibs Salt @ 9d


1


6


April 20th 1 Ib Nails 2/


2





April 20th Cash 24/


1 4




May 12th Cash 4/


4




May 19th To 6% Ib Sugar @ I/


6


3




18 17


6


DR. FANNY MYRES


& s.


d.


1808






May 28th To pd Thos. Coates 16/


16




To amount brought ford


... 18 17


6


June 2nd 1 Qr Rock Salt 1/6


1


6


June 18th To Pd Thos Coates 4/


4




June 29th To 71b Wool @ 4/


1 8




June 30th To 4 Ib Sugar @ I/


4




July 28th To 2 yds check @ 10/


1




Augt. 15th To 2 Skns thread @ 3d




6


Augt. 16th To 1 yellow Shawl 12/6


12


6


Augt. 20th To 4 Baskets 8/


8




Augt. 22nd To 1 Skn thread 3d




3


Sepr. 5th 3 yds white calo @ 4/6


13


6


Sepr. 5th 1 Ib. Bohea Tea @ 8f


8




Sepr. 7th % Ib. Tobao @ 4/6


2


3


Octr. llth 1 Set knitg needles I/


1




Do y z paper pins 1/6


1


6


Octr. 22nd 6 Ib Beef @ 6d thread I/


4




Novr. 12th To 7 yds White Calo @ 4/6


1 11


6


Novr. 12th To 4 Skns N. thread @ 3d


... .. 11




Nov. 29th To H yd White cotton @ 8/


4





FANNY MYRES.

Acct as foregoing settled to Apr. 1st 1809

T. T.



[COYNB] THE TALBOT PAPERS 87

CR. FANNY REID s . d.

1807 To 2 days work @ 4/ 8

May 28th hired @ 4$ pr. month

To cr for Ann Lawler 4/ 4

Sept. 19th Cr pr Cummings ll/ 11

Octr. 7th Cr pr Henry Berger 18/ 18

1808

March 16th Cr H Berger 6/ 6

March 16th To cash reed 8/ 8

Apl. 19th Went away. Wages to this date 17 4

April 19th fcr pr Henry Berger ' 3/ 3

April 25th' 26th, 27th June 1st, 2nd @ 2/ 10

June 3d. 4th, 17, 18th, 21st, 22nd @ 2/ 12

July 8th, 9th, 10th, 16th, 18th, 23rd @ 2/ 12

brought forward

July 25th 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th, @ 2/ 12

Aug. 1st 2nd, 3d, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, @ 2/ 18

Augt llth Cr pr Caleb Turner 8/ 8

Augt 10th llth, 12th, 13th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, @ 2/ 16

Augt. 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, @ 2/ 10

Augt. 29th @ 2/ 2

Sepr. 19th To Sping 4 Ib Wool @ 4/ 16



25 18

CR. FANNY MYRES. s. d.

1808 To amount brought forward 25 18

Sepr. 20th, 21st, 22nd, Octr. 7th, llth, @ 4/ 1

Octr. 12th 13th, 14th @ 4/ 12

Octr 22nd Y 2 24th @ 2/ 3

Oct 28th 29th, @ 4/ Octr. 30 @ 2/ 10

Novr 1st 2nd, 3d, 4th, 5th @ 3/ 15

Novr. 12th 26th @ 2/ 4

Novr. 26th to run'g 2 prs stockgs 2

Nov 28th 29th. Deer 1st 1/2 2nd @ 3/ . . 7 6

Deer. 3d To mending 2 pr Stockgs I/ 1

Dcr. 12th 13th, 14th, 1/2 15th @ 3/ 10 6

Deer. 13th To Knit'g 3 pr socks @ 2/6 7 6

1809

Jan. 5th, 6th, 7th, 9th, 10th, llth @ 3/ 18

Jany y z 20th ^ 21st March 24th @ 3/ 6

Apr. It Settled T. T.



April 4th returned to pr. month.

Ap'l 5 By over paid Tobaco 2d . . 2



1 On 9th Feb 1809. the Executive Council ordered a grant of 200 acres to Talbot
in respect of Heinrich Beirgar, a settler on 50 acres (in Dunwich).



ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

ACCOUNT OF JAMES WHITTON'S WORK AS A CARPENTER.

Days. Yi Days.

1st July 1804. Sunday 1

2nd Do. Monday 1

3rd Tuesday on board Ship

4th Wednesday do

5th Thursday arrived at Port Talbot 1

6th Friday \

7th Saturday 1

8th Sunday

9th Monday 1

10th Tuedsay 1

1 1th Wednesday 1

12th Thursday 1

13th Friday 1

14th Saturday J^

15th Sunday

16th Monday 1

17th, 18th. 19th, 20th, 21st, July 5

22nd Sunday 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th, 27th, 28th, July 6

/804 Days. ^ Days.

29th Sunday 30th Monday Wet, two Stools , 1

31st Tuesday 1st Augt Wednesday 2nd Thursday 3

3rd Augt arrived ye Camden . . 1

4th Augt. Saturday 5th Sunday 1

6th Monday 7th Tuesday, Sick 1

8th Wednesday 9th Thursday 2

10th llth 12th Augt. Sunday 2

13th 14th 15th 16th 17th 18th 19th Augt Sunday 6

20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th Augt. Sunday. ... 6

27th, 28th, 29th, 30th, 31st, Augt. 1st Sepr, 2nd Sunday . 6

3d, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th Sepr. Sunday 6

10th, llth Sepr. Two half days 1

12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, Sunday Sepr 4

17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd Sepr Sunday 6

24th, 25, 26, at the boat 27th, 28th, 29th Sepr 6

1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, Octr set off for Niagara 4

6th, Deer, recommenced work 1

7th, 8th, 10th, llth, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15, 17th, 18th, Deer 10

19th, 20th, 21st, 22d, 27th, 28th, 29th Deer 7



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 89

JAMES WHITTON.

1804 Days. 3^ Days.

31st December 1

1805 1st, 2nd, 3d, 4th, 5th, 7th, 8th, Jany 7

9th, 10th, llth, 12th, 14th, 15th, 16th, Jany 7

19th, 21st, 22d, 23d, 24th, 25th, 26th Jany 7

28th, 29th, 30th, Jany. J of 31st Jany 3 K

1st, y?, 2nd Feby. 4th, 5th, ^ 6th Feby 4

8th, 9th, 10th, Apl making north fence @ 4d 2

llth, 12th, 1-3 13th making Tables 2 1-3

13th May. making Door & Table for Jo 1

5th Augt to 2-3 of a day laying thrashing floor . . 2-3

Sepr. 6th, 7th, 9th, 10th, llth, % 12th making Harrow.. . 5 ^

Sepr. 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th, 27th, 2-3d, 28th 5 2-3

Sepr. 27th To credit for Bark 5 Dolrs

Sepr. 29th, Octr 1st, 2d 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, llth, 12th ... 9

Oct. 17th, 18th, 19th, 21st, 22d, 23d, 24th, % 25th 7 %

Octr 21st. To 1 pr Socks returned by Smith 6s 1

9th July To credit for McLaughlin, Kitty 16s

27th Octr To making Shirt for Root, Kitty, Davy, Min 4s.

Octr 28th, 29th, 30th, 31st, % 5th Novr 4 %

Novr. 6th, 7th, % 8th, 9th', ^ 10th, 21st, 22d, 25th, 26th 7 %

Days. y% Days.

Novr 27th, 28th, % 29th Deer. 2d, 3d, 4th 5 1

Nov To 5 Turkeys @ 4 s \

12th Deer. To Kitty for making one of Roots' Shirts 4s ..

Deer. 19th commenced @ 5s. pr day 1

Deer. 20th ^ 21st, 2Sd Y 2 24th @ Do 3

1806

23rd Jany credit for Crane 20s & Gamble 40s

24th Jany 1

25th Jany. To a dressing Table 1 Dolr



1808.

Jan'y 21st hired Elizabeth Meridith @ $6 pr month.

Jany. To Sundries at Mr. Hatts 14

Febry. 13th To 1 pr Soles 1/6 1 6

Febry. 15th To pd Jas Whitten 2 chairs 71 7

Feby. 15th To pd Geo. Craue soling pr. shoss 3/ 3

Febry. 20th To pd Dr. Archmiler 1 Qt Bran'y 5/ 5

Febry. 26th 1 Sken Silk I/ 1

Apl. 2nd Pd Archmiler 1 pint Brandy 2/6 2 6

April 4th ^ yd Check @ 10/1 skn thread 3d 5 3

April 9th 1 pr Slippers 10/ . . .'. 10

June 4th 1 Skn N. Thread 3d. . 3



2 t 10

June 18th To pd 4 months & \ 8 18
3 weeks wages / '



11

Settled T. T.



9O ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

ELIZABETH MEREDITH.

N.Y.C.

1808

June 18th. To wages for ~|

4 months & 3 weeks > 11

at $6 pr month J



8 18
Settled T. T.



(On Separate sheet of paper)

Received of Thomas Talbot Esqr. the sum of seven pounds two shillings and six
pence provincial currency (being the amount of wages at the rate of one pound Ten
Shillings per month) for four months and three weeks wages.
Port Talbot June 18th 1808

her

ELIZABETH x MERIDITH
mark



N. Y. C.

Dr. ANN LAWLER. s. d.
1804

5th. Octr. To order on Crooks by Whitten 1 12

1805

31st May To Whitten for a cow 7 4

12th June To pr Shoes 16

13th June To pr. Stockings Wortsed 8

14th June To 1% yd. of Striped cotton @ 6s 9

17th June To % yd. of Do. @ 6s 3

17th June To 1 Skeine No. 8 thread @ 3d 3

14th June To 1 yd Cotton check @ 6s. 6d 6 6

9th July To Cash 8

At Niagara 2

12th July To 2 yds. Mixed Cloth. @ 16s 1 12

24th July To 2 Skeins of thread 4

24th Aug. 1 Promat Handf 4

Sepr. 17th To Cash 16s. & 2 Skeins thread 4d 16 4

10th Ocr. To 4 Skeins thread @ 3d 1

Nov. 5th To 1 Ib. Wool 4s. & pr. of Soles 4 9

Nov. 18th T8 1 yd Black Silk Mode 13

1806

1st Jany To ^ Ib Souchong Tea @ 14s 7

13th Jany To 2 skeins cold. Thread @ 2d 4

14th Jany Prod. Handf. 4/- 4



[COYNE]


THE TALBOT PAPERS




91


Dr.


ANN LAWLER.


s.


d.


1806


Brought forward






15th. Jany.


To 1 Skein White Thread




3


22 Jany.


To 1 pr. Shoes 17/-


. . . . 17




8th March To 1 Skein Nuns thread


3


Ditto


To 1 Skein Colour thread




2


Aprl. 21st


To 4^ yds. W. Calico @ 4/6


.. 1


6


Aprl. 30th


To Cash for Mrs. Locd. 3/-


.. .. 3




14th May


To 2 Skeins Nuns Thread @ 3d




6


26th May


To l\i yd. White Callo @ 4/6


.... 5


lYt


29th May


By Credit to Mrs. Lockard 3/-


.. .. 3




June 27th


To 6 yds. Imitation Sheet. @ 6/6


1 19




Do.


To 1 Set cups & saucers 8/-


.. .. 8




Do.


To 6 Plates 6/- 1 pint mug 4/-


. . . . 10




Do.


Tea pot 8/- Sugar bowl 8/-


. . . . 16




Do.


Cream Ewer 4/- Slop bowl 6/-


. . . . 10




Do.


1 doz. Knives & Forks 8/-


.. .. 8




Bo.


Yz dozn. Tea Spoons @ 4^d


.. .. 2


3


Do.


1 Japaned pint mug 3/-


.. .. 3




Do.


To a Shawl 12'-


. . . . 12




Do.


To 1 oz. Nuns Thread . . 2/-


.. .. 2








8


*y>


Dr.


ANN LAWLER.


s.


d.


1806


To amount brought forward


8


6^


28th June


To 1 yd. Cot. Check


.. .. 9




Do.


To \Y Bengal Striped cotton @ 9/-


.. .. 11




Do.


To 1 paper pins 3/6


3


6


30th June


To \Y yd. Ben Gal Cotton @ 9/-


.. . . 11


3


Do.


To 4 yds White Baize @ 5/-


1




Do.


To 1 Skein Nuns Thread 3d




3


Do.


To 2 yds. Bengl. Cotn. @ 9/-


.. .. 18




Do.


To 2 Skeins Nuns thread @ 3d




6


July 8th


To Pd. Nancy Kingsland


.. .. 8




10th Augt.


pd. Dixon Shoe maker


. . . .' 2




15th Aug.


To 1 Iron Pot 151b. @ 1/6


... 1 2


6


16th Aug.


To 6 yds. Prind. Calo. @ 5/6


1 13




21st Aug.


To 1 opend. & 1 Crookd. Comb @ 2/-


.. .. 4




30th Augt.


To 3 yds. B. Hold. @ 4/-


.. .. 12




Do.


To 1 Skein Coloured thread @ 4d




4



15 15



92 ROYAL SOCIE TY OF CANADA



Dr. ANN LAWLER. s. d.

1806 To amount brought forwd 15 15 10

9th Sept To % Ib. Hyson Tea @ 24/- 6

15th Sept To 7 needles 8

17th Sept To pd. Mrs. Porter 17/- r 17

6th Octr To Cash 8/- 8

Novr. 5th To 1 pr. Socks 6/- 6

Nov 12th To Kingsland for Barl ' 4

1st Deer To 1 Ib. Wool Mrs. Gainsay 4

4th Deer To 8 Ib. Fresh Pork @ 6d 4

12tb Deer To 2% Benl. Cottn. @ 9/- 1 1 4

Do. " To 1 Skn. Cold. Thread 4d 4

Deer. 17th To Pd. Mrs. Garnsey 5/- 5

Deer. 30th To 5 Ib. Fresh Pork @ 6/- 2 6

Do. " To H H>- Tea To Mrs. Woodin 4/- 4

1807

Jany. 9th To 5 Ib. Fresh Pork @6d 2 9

Janry.Hth To 5^ Ib. of Fresh Pork @ 6d 2 6

Jany. 27th To Pd. John Phillips 8/- 8



20 12



Dr. ANN LAWLER N. Y. C. . a. d.

1807 To amount brought forward 20 12

Feby. 9tb To Pd. John Cook for Oxen 12

March 12th To 1 skein Silk I/- 1

March 13th To Pd. Creamer 12/- 12

April 1st To 2^ Cottn Check @ 9/6 1 3 9

Do. " To 1 Skn. N. thread 3d 3

April 15th 1 Ib. Wool to N. Kings @ 4/- 4

April 16th To \% cotton check @ 9/- , . . . 12 4J

June 4th 1 skn. N. thread 3d 3

June . 8th To Pd. Creamer for Whitten 11 4

June 9th To 1 pr. Shoes for Nancy 6/- 6

June 10th To 4 Skns. N. thread @ 3d 1

June 17th To Cash $10 . 4



50 16

June 17th. To Pd. Fanny Reed 4/- 4

1808

Feby. " Pd. James Whitten pr. yr. order 2 8



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 93

Cr. ANN LAWLER s . d.

hired to Mrs. Powers the 26th July 1804 at Niagara at
6 Dolrs per month.

To lent Mrs. Powers 3/- 3

1805

28th. June. Y 2 Dolr. lent self 4

28th. June. Yt Dolr lent self 4

1st. Augt. To Cret. for 2 yds cloth & thread to Reed 1 12 4

15th. Aug. To an Iron Pot returned 1 2 6

8th. Sept. To Cr. for Davd. Phillips 8/ 8

1807

June 5th. To 4 plates taken back , 4

June .10th. To 1 Stick Silk returned \ 1

June 17th. To Wages for 34> months 82 16



86 14 10

Acct. of James Newlands Work as Apprentice to Whitton .

Days y% days

5th. July 1804 Thursday 1

6th. Friday 1

7th. Saturday 1

8th. Sunday

9th. Monday 1

10th. Tuesday 1

llth. Wednesday 1

12th. Thursday 1

13th. Friday 1

14th. Saturday y%

15th. Sunday

16th. Monday 1

17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, July 5

22nd. Sunday 23d, 24th, 25th, 26th, 27th, 28th, July 6

29th. Sunday 30th, Monday Wet

31st. July Tuesday 1st., 2d. & ^ 3d Augt 3 1

4th. Augt. Saturday 5th Sunday 1

6th, 7th., 8th., Augt 3

9th, 10th, llth, 12th, August Sunday 3

13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, Augt. Sunday 6

20th, 21st, 22d, 23d, 24th, 25th, 26t Augt Sunday 6

27th, 28th, 29th, 30th, 31st, Augt. 1st Sept. 2d Sunday 6

3d, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, Sepr. Sunday 6

10th, llth, Sepr. no work 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, Sepr 4

16th, Sepr Sunday 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22d 6

23rd Sepr. Sunday 24th., 25th., Sepr no work

26th, 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th, Sepr. Sunday 4

1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, Ocr set off for Niagara 4

1805 Sept. 5th., 6th 2



94 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Amount of Flour &c from Mill.

Apl. 26th 1 Bushl. Wheat return goods.
Apl. 29th., 16 Bushl. 17 Ib. Wheat
return
Ib Ib Ib

Fl our 5511^ Shorts 100 Bran 216

Ib Ib

Toll 41 Ib. Total 908^ wt of Wheat 977

Ib

deficiency 69 Yi
May 3d. 56 Bushl. 34 Ib.

Memn. of Bond's Wheat Sown in ye Garden 13th. Sepr. 1809 from the
fence of the Gully.

5 Rows Yorkshire red wheat.
6J Do. Do. round Do.

(On separate slip of paper.)
Amount of things of Lawler. delivered to Mr. Smith.

6 cups & o Saucers.

1 Sugar Bowl & Cover.

2 pint Bowles.
2 Soup Plates.
1 Cream Ewer.
1 Tea Pot.



(On inside of cover at end of book)

Amt. of wheat sent to my Bin at the Mill, 1809.

Bushl. Peck.

Apl. 12th 74 45

April 20th 54 131b.

April 21st 80 41b.

May 3d 56 341b.

May 6th 14 351b.

May 7th 18 10

May 9th 44

May 15th 6

May 19th 62 27

May 29 30 52

June .5th 57 30

June 13th 89 ...

June 17th 67

June 22d 105 44

June 23d 85

June 26th 67 47

June 30th... 39 38



954
Col

Thomas Talbot.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 93

Amt. of wheat ground from the bin.

Bushl. Ib.

April 26th 1 11

April 29 16 17

813 41
39 38

Bushl



853 19 954

Bushl

June 3d 1 taken for house ............... 974

Bushl. Ib
588 10
67



655 10

190 44

745 54

67 47

813 41



96 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Colonel James Archibald Stuart-Wortley * (afterwards Baron Wharn-
cliffe of Wortley) to Colonel Talbot.

Addressed.

" Thomas Talbot, Esq., Port Talbot, Niagara, New York State, North

America :
" Immediately forward to the care of Messrs. Crooks, merchants,

Niagara :

" Wortley Hall, Dec. 1, 1806.

" My Dear Tom, Amidst all the miserable events that Europe
furnishes it gives one considerable relief to think that one has a friend
in America at so great a distance as to be totally out of the reach of
their influence and to be able to look upon them, comparatively, at
least, with indifference. You will see by the papers that after a cam-
paign of three weeks only the Prussian army has been either entirely
taken prisoners or destroyed, that the King of Prussia himself is wan-
dering, God knows where, and that his kingdom is no longer to exist
as a separate State. It really appears to be a fatality, and a person

1 James Archibald Stuart Wortley Mackenzie, the writer of this letter,
eldest surviving son of James Archibald Stuart, was born 1776, died 19th
December, 1845; entered the army 1790 as an ensign in 48th foot; exchanged
into the 7th Royal Fusiliers in May following, and accompanied his regiment
in August to Quebec. The 7th was commanded by H.R.H. Edward, Duke of
Kent. Talbot was already in garrison at Quebec as lieutenant in the, 24th
Foot. Stuart was grandson of John Stuart, 3rd' Earl of Bute, and nephew
of John, 1st marquis of Bute. The names Wortley and Mackenzie were
added to that of Stuart on succeeding to estates of relatives; that of Wortley
eoming from his great-grandmother, the famous Lady Mary Wortley Mon-
tagu, whose letters were afterwards edited by the subject of this note. He
spent three years in Canada. He became Colonel of the 12th Foot, and
quitted the army at the peace of 1801. Fromi 1797 until 1818 he was M.P.
for Bossiney, a family borough; from 1818 until 1826, M.P. for Yorkshire.
In the latter year he was created Baron. Wharncliffe of Wortley. Wortley
Hall is in Yorkshire. , In 1834 he was Lord Privy Seal in Peel's cabinet.
From 1835 until 1841 he was in opposition. In the latter year he was chosen
L rd President of the Council. He married in 1799 Lady Caroline, daughter
of John, 1st Earl of Erne, by whom he had three sons and one daughter.
The daughter married Hon. John Chetwynd Talbot (of the Shrewsbury
Talbots, not the Talbots of Malahide). The present Marquis of Wharncliffe,
the Right Hon. John Chetwynd Talbot, M.P., for the University of Oxford,
and the Bishop of Southwark, are grandsons of the first Lord Wharncliffe.
Col. Talbot gave the names of Wharncliffe and Wortley Roads (now in Lon-
don, Ontario) in honour of hls^arly friend. Lord Wharncliffe was able to
render valuable assistance to Colonel Talbot through his influence with the
governments.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 97

can scarce persuade himself that he is not dreaming, nor does one see
how the sort of progress the French make is to be stopped by any
means short of the interposition of Providence.

" Bonaparte already threatens the Emperor of Eussia to drive him
also from his capital. To-day, too, we hear that Hamburg and all th0
posts in the north of Germany are occupied by him and that he has
confiscated all the English property he can find anywhere and put the
merchants into prison. I don't think your American neighbours will
very much admire this last intelligence. There is but one consolation
in it all, namely, that Prussia has brought it all upon herself. Her
conduct last year in not joining the coalition at that time formed against
France has been the cause of all her misfortunes, and that policy that
has all along led her to refuse doing anything for the common cause
has proved the means by which her own punishment has been effected.

" For my part I am not joking when I say that I really become
quite low-spirited at thinking over all this and rather envy you your
situation beyond the reach of it all. For our parts, here in Eng-
land, we have had a general election to amuse us and that has served
not a little, I can assure you, to take our thoughts off the events upon
the continent, The new Parliament will, however, meet on the 15th
and then we shall see what this will produce, and how the taxes are
to be raised to carry on the war. I am afraid I give you too gloomy a
picture of the state of this part of the world, and perhaps I do. With
regard to myself and my family concerns, I go n as well as usual.
My dearest wife and three boys are in good health and they grow
as stout as they ought to grow. My father and mother and all my
family are quite well, too. I am again a member of Parliament, and
BO is my father also, his brother, Lord Bute, having returned him for
the county of Bute.

"My farm and all my occupations here go on as well as usual
and give me great plenty of employment. By-the-bye, talking of farm-
ing, puts me in mind of your clover seed, which I trust the fall ships
have carried to Quebec for you. I got it from Mr. Gibbs, the most
famous seedsman in London, and I don't doubt he will send it ty you
good. I would have sent you some from here, if I had thought this
a good soil for growing it, which I do not, and in consequence I always
buy it for my own use. By the time I am forced to emigrate I suppose
I shall find your farm a pattern for the whole inhabitants of the old
world to copy after, and the border of Lake Erie as highly cultivated
as the banks of the Tweed. I have not heard of it from you, though,
these five or six months past, and perhaps you answer me the same

Sec. II., 1907. 7.



98 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

way, but don't let that prevent you; the more letters the more chance
there is of their coming to hand. Lady Erne is well and desires to
be most kindly remembered to you. She has been very ill this summer,
but has got quite stout again, and I hope Wortiey air will set her quite
up. Corbett and his six children are quite well, and he desires every-
thing kind to you. Caroline herself sends you her kindest love, and
I am ever, my dear Tom,

Your affectionate friend,

J. A. S. W.

" Pray do you ever intend to come and pay us a visit here in
England again? I think the poor old country is still worth looking at,
notwithstanding all her misfortunes and the losses of her greatest
men that the last year has produced. Poor Fox, you see, could not live
to enjoy the power he had so long and so eagerly coveted. He now
lays within eighteen inches of his great political rival. 1 Most certainly
two such men are a great loss at any time, but more when times are
such as we live in. Once more good-bye, my dear Tom. Let me hear
from you as often as you can, for your letters from your quiet corner
of the world are quite a relief to me. I am afraid you think me grown
a complete croker."



Thomas Clark' 2 to Colonel Talbot.

Queenston, June 7th, 1808.
Thomas Talbot, Esqre.,

Dear Sir:

The bearer Le May, Conductor of four Boats going round the Lake
will deliver you three parcels one containing news papers, one clover
and Eye grass seeds the other One hundred Dollars. By the Boats
at this time I was in hopes to have sent up your other articles, but from
8 of them having been siezed at Fort Niagara by the American Col-
lector & 5 from desertion of the men being left at Kingston, puts it



1 Pitt ar.d Fox lie side by side in Westminster Abbey.

*As Lieutenant-Colonel of the 2nd Lincoln Militia during the war of
1812, Thomas Clark won considerable distinction. He was for many years
"a member of the firm of Street and Clark, engaged in the Indian Trade,
In which life he had much experience" (Kingsford, VHI, 339). He married
a daughter of Robert Kerr, surgeon, and died in 1837, aged 67. Thomas
Clark Street was named after him. Colonel Clark was for more than twenty
years a member of the Legislative Council of Upper Canada.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 99

out of my power, having had to load the others deeper-everything
shall be sent to Fort Erie, and can easily be taken to Long Point by
Loders * vessel, that is should no direct opportunity offer for Port Tal-
bot the articles are as under

4 wing gudgeons
3 casks pease
1 Barrel liquor

1 Barrel Tar

2 small Kegs
1 case

1 bundle contg. saddle, &c.
11 Bars Iron 5901b.
and 3 Barrels Onondago Salt.

For public news I must refer you to your newspapers local we
have none.

Robt. Nichol 2 has gone to Washington, to endeavour to get his 8
Boats & goods released. I expect to hear of him in the publick papers
before he returns. Wishing you health and happiness.

I am, Dear Sir,

Yours truly,

THOMAS CLARK.

I have promised Le May that you will give him a Dollar for his
trouble.

Inclosed is a statement of ?your account with me which I presume,
you will find right, Yours, once more

T. CLARK.
(Addressed Colonel Talbot,

Port Talbot.)



1 Job Loder was a mill-wright, house-builder, vessel-owner, tavern-
keeper, miller and merchant, who resided successively at Charlotteville, Tur-
key Point, Waterford, Ancaster and Hamilton. He was from New Jersey.

* " In his young days he worked as a clerk for Colonel John Askin of
Detroit,, and after leaving this service he established a milling: and mercan-
tile business at Port Dover." He distinguished himself greatly during the
war of 1812, as Lieutenant-Colonel of the 2nd Regiment of Norfolk Militia,
and as Quarter- Master General of Militia. He served in the Legislature
for three parliaments from 1813 until his death In 1824. (See Casselman's
note, page 66 of his edition of Richardson's War of 1812.)



100 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Draft of Memorial in Colonel Talbot's Autograph.

To Hie Excellency Francis Gore Esquire Lieutenant Governor of Upper
Canada &c. &c. &c. in Council.

The Memorial of Thomas Talbot Esquire 1

Humbly Sheweth

That your Memorialist was authorized by a report of the Honorable
the Executive Council approved by His Excellency, the late Lieutenant
Governor Hunter in September 1804 to lay out one thousand dollars
appropriated by the then Legislature for that purpose on a Road marked
on a plan annexed to the above Report by which a better and shorter
road to the Westward would be obtained to the great advantage of the
Public.

That although the above sum has been advantageously expended
yet the distance is so great as yet to require considerable expense. Your
Memorialist under these circumstances presumes to offer a plan to Your
Excellency which on a due consideration he has reason to believe will
effect this desirable purpose without any other than the ordinary aids
which may be hereafter afforded to other Districts. Several of the
Townships through which the proposed Road is to be made are reserved
by the Crown and must in consequence of that reservation be altogether



1 This memorial, received 9th Feb., 1809, was acted upon by the Executive
Council recommending, on 19th December, 1809, that the Crown, School and
Clergy Reserves be removed from Talbot Road. The report was taken to
the Governor's Office on 21st March, .1811. On 7th December, 1809, grants
of 200 acres each on Talbot Road we -e recommended In favour of Daniel
Rapelje and David Mandevllle, both of the Township of Woodhouse. They
were the first settlers In what Is now St. Thomas. Similar grants were
ordered on 10th August, 1810, In favour of Garret Smith, Aaron Spurgin
and David Secord, Jr.. of Charlotteville. On the 16th February, 1811, peti-
tions for lands on Talbot Road were received from the following persons,
all being described as of the township of Yarmouth, unless otherwise spe-
cified: Stephen Barton, Hosea Baker, Josephus Barber, James Brown, Asa
Bradley (Malahide), John Barber, Benjamin Willson, Abraham House,
Richard Mizner, James Gibbons (Bayham), David Watson (Southwold),'
James Watson (Southwold), Thomas Curtis, William Davis (Southwold),'
Alex. Cascadden (Bayham), William Cascadden (Township of Willoughby)!
Wm. Merrill, John Backen, Garrett Oakes (Charlotteville), John Axford'
Burges Swisher (Southwold), Samuel Axford (Windham), Isaac Lowell,
David Brush, Henry Remy (Southwold), Samuel N. Yorke, William S Yorke'
John T. Woolley, Frederick Eveland, William Prime Shaft! (Sbuthwold) '
These were the original settlers on the Talbot Road-east of the Townships
of Dunwich and Aldborough, which were reserved for the benefit of Colonel
Talbot under his arrangement with the Government.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 1O1

unproductive and useless for many years. Your Memorialist therefore
humbly submits to your Excellency to grant Lots on each side of the
intended Eoad in the same manner as Younge Street to grantees per-
forming their settlement duty before their deeds are issued:

The good effect already experienced by the adoption of this plan
will (Your Memorialist hopes) induce Your Excellency to pursue it
yet further as it must greatly add to the value of tHese reserved Town-
ships and be a powerful means of gaining a considerable population
in a part of the Province where there seems no other means of obtain-
ing it.



Thomas Clark to Colonel Talbot.
g- r Queenston May 4th 1810.

By the Governor's two Canoes I have taken upon myself to send
up your seine (in a cask) and two coils of Rope should His Excellency
find fault with my doing so, you must make the best appology for mje
that you can.

I am, Dear Sir,

Yours very truly,

THOMAS CLARK.
Col. Talbot.

Addressed on back

Thomas Talbot Esqr. V

Port Talbot.



Robert Talbot 1 to Colonel Talbot.

' London A ^ st 9 ' 1810 '



My Dear Thos.

It is a painful reflection that two successive letters of mine to you
should each of them have to announce the death of a brother or sister.
You will probably have learnt from other quarters the fate of poor Neil
before this can reach you. Nobody certainly could be more sincerely
lamented by all who .knew him both as an officer & a man.

Henry Brand's 2 account of the affair is this that the enemy having
formed a hollow square, the Hussars attempted to break them, but could
not make good their charge ; upon which he led on one of his squadrons,
and got in amongst them, when he received several shot in different

1 Robert Talbot, Barrister-at-Law, was the fifth son of Richard Talbot.
Born, 1776.

* Henry Brand, afterwards Lord Dacre, an early friend of Colonel Thomas
Talbot.



102 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

parts of his body, and expired instantly. It has always appeared to
me the highest absurdity to attempt to charge Infantry in close order
with Cavalry. I conclude it was the work of that coxcomb (Cotton)
who at present commands the cavalry in Portugal. They might, one
would have thought, have taken a lesson from what happened to the
23d at Talavera, when they were not able to touch a hair of a French-
man's head.

Brand says Ld. Wellington has written in the handsomest manner
on the subject to some part of the Family probably my mother or
Richard. I tremble to think of the effect this intelligence may have
on my poor mother, coming so recently as it does too after the death
of poor Margaret. It is my intention to set out for Ireland by to-
morrow night* s mail, as she is at present almost left alone.

I hope your concerns are going on prosperously, and that William
has a chance of doing something for himself in your country. I heard
an account of your manner of living some time ago from Whitehead
who had it [from] somebody who had seen you [and it] amused me
not a little.

[God bless] you, my dear Thos.

every very sincerely yours

(sgd) . ROBT. TALBOT.

Love to William if he should be still with you.

(The letter is addressed:)

Thos. Talbot Esqr.

Port Talbot

Niagara

New York State

N. America.

(There is a memo, in Colonel Talbot's writing on the back:)
Bond in favour of Mr. Selby, payable 18th .Feb'y 1812.

The following is from a brother of Colonel Talbot, either Sir John
Talbot, afterward Admiral, &c., &c., or James, who afterwards
succeeded Richard in the title Baron Talbot of Malahide to
William Talbot.

My Dear William, Near Hatfield, Herts, 2d. Octr. 1810.

By your letter of the 20th July you seem not to have received my
letter wherein I announced to you that I had, settled the demand of
Lawson's Executors amounting to 70. and that I had a balance of



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 1O3

upwards of twenty pounds coming to you in my hands. Mr. Wat
Wheldale the Executor with whom I transacted this business could not
inform me who your other creditors at Manchester were, consequently
I was obliged to postpone any further steps on that subject in the
expectation of your early arrival in England which I had so much
reason to look for in consequence of what you wrote to me.

I am much mortified to find, you have been disappointed in the
situation which you had entertained hopes of obtaining in Canada. The
new Township of Malahide seems by your description to be well situated
and a promising speculation. To make such projects completely fully
answer it appears to me that we all labour under a deficiency of dis-
posable capital. Under these circumstances perhaps it might be
advisable to retain the controllership until you found the absolute
necessity for resigning it. As I have written to Thomas by this post
and have communicated to him all that occurs to me in which you
could feel interested you will not expect me to reiterate it. I shall
therefor wish you every happiness & success begging to believe me to
be ever very affectionately & truly yours,

J. T.
P.S.

I know of threshing machine which I saw a few days ago for the
first time at work. It seemed to answer the purpose perfectly, thresh-
ing out the grain, but it breaks, as they all do, the straw very much.
The expense of erecting it can not be very heavy. I shall not fail to
procure a model of it, as I do not apprehend that a drawing on paper
would be sufficient for your workmen.

via New York.

(Addressed) William Talbot Esq.
Port Talbot,

Niagara,

North America.
(Stamped) Paid 3, Oct. 3, 1810.



W. M. Smyth to William Talbot.

Dublin, 20th October, 1810.

My Dear Talbot.

I was much gratified and indeed surprized (most agreably) by your
last letter of the 10th July. As to the one you speak of having written
last October I have never received it & indeed as I feared my letter to



1O4 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA



you had miscarried I began to think you had droped the correspondence,
which I should regret very much, as I have always had very great
pleasure in hearing from all my friends & from you in particular. I
shall do what I can for you about the plan of the threshing machine
& when I procure it shall send it off to you without delay. I am very
glad you are settled so much to your satisfaction & seem happy & con-
tent. When I received your letter I little thought you had determined
on remaining in Canada as the Governor who I saw last July told me
you were coming over immediately by Gad & indeed I felt much pleasure
in thinking to see you once more. But fate has decreed otherwise.
My plans & intentions are also much altered since I last wrote. It
has pleased God to remove my dear Father from this world; he died
quite suddenly last March & left us all & my poor Mother particularly
in sad affliction as it was a shock we were by no means prepared for.
However Religion A an almost certainty that he is now 1 enjoying the
blessings of a well spent life has resigned us all & my Mother is thank
God getting on. I am to live in future with her & my Sisters; she
has purchased a house No. 6 Merrion Square (South) which will in
future be my residence. My Brother Ralph dont go to Barba Villa
till May next & he intends disposing of the Hospital to the best advan-
tage. It has been determined by all my friends that it would be a bad
place for me & besides I neither could or would give him as much as
he may get elsewhere so I suppose we shall have quite done with it in
a little time he has many looking out for it; but every body thinks I
must have it of course, people like to meddle so much in other peoples
affairs. As to my going to Canada 'tho your being there is a great
temptation I fear it is among the improbable events of my life, but I
hope you will some time or other take a peep at your friend this side
the Atlantic unless Bony sinks us in the sea. Everybody here is meet-
ing to adress the Throne to repeal the Union, this now is all the talk
& the fate of Lord Wellington in Portugal which is not yet decided.
I was sorry to see that your brother Neil fell a sacrifice to his country's
Glory in a late engagement. I suppose you have had the accounts long
You may remember Jones who was in your Shop
he is now in Dublin in a Shop here he tells me your houses are going
on famously. Whitehouse & Gaton are bankrupts & poor Mrs. Lake
is dead this all the Liverpool news I know. I have no idea I promise
you of going thear; business never was my delight but I am not the
less obliged to you for your friendly offers; The Governor's face is
again in the old way I think it will be the death of him he has a
great Horn out of one cheek I hope in God he may leave you some-
thing that will tempt you to leave those deserted regions (or rather



[COTNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 1OB

solitary) as they have never been peopled. My Uncle Win. is very
well & at Bath where he is entirely confined with my Grandfather who
is declining I think very fast. We had letters from Henry last month
he is very well & has been kept marching and fighting ever since he
went out. I fear our possessions there are in a very bad way & our
tenure very uncertain. But I am sick of Polyticks. I suppose you
know Gobbet is in jail; he is writing away more bitter than ever. I
hope you will write often to your very sincere friend

W. M. SMYTH.

Since writing the enclosed, I have received a note from Miss Beau-
fort which I enclose you as you have there all I can do for you. I
am truly sorry your request cant be granted, but it cant be helped.
Lord Wellington I find has had an engagement with Massena in which
he killed 2000 french Men. Our loss is small, but another battle is
daily expected. I hope you will not again let so long an interval
elapse without writing to me & you know I dont mind postage. Jackson
is settled in Jamaica. I forget if I mentioned it before he is in a
house of his Uncle's. I kno.w of nothing new to tell you as I am
entirely engrossed by my own business at present. This will travel
many a mile before you touch it, & when I think what a miserable pro-
duction it is I am tempted to put it on the fire, however I depend on
your good nature for my excuse and remain as always your sincere
friend,

W. M. SMYTH,

23d. October, 1810.

(Enclosed in letter of W. M. Smyth, dated 20-23 Oct., 1810.)

My Dear Maria,

When my father came home last night I propounded your request
he says it would be impossible for him to draw a threshing machine,
as it is rather too complicated for a drawing to explain so as to be of
use for erecting. A model he thinks would be very expensive and of
little use, as the proportions are seldom properly preserved, he thinks
that the best method would be to buy a threshing machine, to be worked
by hand, which are tq be had exceeding good for 20 guineas at Mr.
McDougal's, in Coventry Street, Hay Market, London. One of these will
thresh at the rate of 20 barrels of oats and 8 barrels of wheat pr. day &
tho' made to be worked by men, can at a triflng expense, be made to



106 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

go by horses or by water from one of these small ones, one of the largest
size can readily be made. I return Mrs. Smyth's sketch of the book-
case we hope she is pretty well to-day.

Best love to A. M. & A.

from yrs. affectiy,

L. C. BEAUFORT.
W. M. Smyth's letter is addressed on outside,

Wm. Talbot Esqr.,
Care of Messrs. Crooks,

Niagara,
New York State,

North America.
(Stamped) Paid Oct. 25, 1810.



Simon Zelotes Watson to the Executive Council.

The Honorable Members of His Majesty's Executive Council of the
Province of Upper Canada, &c. &c. &c. in Council

The Petition of Simon Zelotes Watson of the Township of West-
minster Most Respfully Sheweth

That your Petitioner having been permitted to settle the broken
front and two Concessions in the said Township of Westminster by
himself and followers; that many of his said followers with their
families will be obliged to come into this Province (some by land and
others by water) via Niagara ; that to be obliged to come to the Seat
of Government of this Province to report themselves will greatly add
to the Expense, hardships and delays of a long and tedious journey;
that Port Talbot being in the vicinity of the said Township of West-
minster

Your Petitioner humbly prays that he may be permited to report
his said followers to Thomas Talbot Esquire and that his approbation
of their being fit persons to become settlers on the vacant Lands of the
Crown, shall be a sufficient authority for your Petitioner to return them
to the Government as his followers to settle on the lands alloted to him
and them in the said Townships.

And he as in duty bound will
ever pray

SIMON ZELOTES WATSON.
York 15th February 1811.



[COYNB] THE TALBQT PAPERS 1O7

Colonel Talbot to S. Z. Watson.

Westminster 2nd March 1811.
Dear Sir,

In consequence of its having been understood at York, that several
families were about to place themselves on the Koad Lots in Westminster,
whom you had engaged in this Province, and further that you required
that each settler should bind himself to pay to you the difference
between the established fees and $100, for your permission to locate
His Excellency the Lieut. Governor has commanded me to inform you,
that no recommendation for a grant of Land on the tract surveyed for
the accommodation of the families which you reported to The Council,
were disposed -to move into this Province, will be attended to but for
such applicants as shall actually have moved direct from Lower Canada,
adding that I must explain to such persons that no extraordinary
charges are to be imposed upon them, as His Majesty will in every
instance prevent all manner of speculation upon the Crown Lands. I
had hop'ed to have found you in Westminster but on my passing thro'
Oxford I was informed that you had stoped at the Head of the Lake.
I have therefore felt it particularly my duty to make known to all con-
cerned the intentions of the Government with respect to the Lands in
Westminster so that ignorance may not be offered hereafter as a plea,
and at the same time to state positively for your information, that I will
not recommend any of your followers but such as conre under the
description that His Excellency in Council has thought fit to receive.

You no doubt will perceive the necessity of a strict compliance-
on your part with the wishes of His Majesty's Government in this

Province.

I am Sir

Yr. very obt. St.

THOMAS . TALBOT.

S. Z. Watson Esqre.

Colonel Talbot to S. Z. Watson.

Port Talbot 12th March 1811.

Your extraordinary letter dated the 8th int. would have much sur-
prised me, had not your violent manner on the preceding day in a great
measure prepared me for its reception. In answer, you are assured
from me, that I have not any intention of complying with your desire
of going to Westminster, to retract the orders entrusted to me, by
Government, to promulgate you are likewise equally in error if you



108 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

expect that I will enter the list with you, for believe me, I value my
life too highly to hazard it in your speculations Should you further
intrude yourself personally upon me with threats, I will employ the
Constable to deliver the necessary reply.

Copies of your letter and my answer together with a statement of
the circumstances that have led to the correspondence will be forwarded

to Government

I am Sir, &c., &c.,

THOMAS TALBOT.
Mr. Simon Zelotes Watson.



Talbot o Major Halton.
Draft in Talbot's writing, with numerous erasures and interlineations.

My Dear Major Port Talbot 14th M4rch 1811 |

two days after I had the pleasure of writing to you by Shenich
on the subject of the Lands in Westminster Mr. Watson called upon
me accompanied by his friend Bird and a person of the name of Brigham
from Delaware. Watson attacked me in a most insolent tone asked me
"how I had dared to go amongst his settlers and desire them v not to
pay him his demands on them of 100 Dollars, that he would take out
a bench warrant against mte and compel me to pay him 100 Dollrs for
every person that refuses to give him that sum, in consequence of my
advice that neither the Governor, Government or any individual had
a right to interfere with his private contracts, that the lands were
assigned to him to settle and he would shew the world that he would
make such bargains as he thought fit and he was not apprehensive of
consequences, as he was certain of the support of an honest jury " his
passion increased to so abusive a strain, that I ordered him out of my
house and by that method got rid of the fellow McMillan one of the
persons that His Excellency was pleased to say might remain on the
Lots which they have occupied for several years came to Port Talbot
the same day, with the money to pay the fees, and when Watson found
that I accepted of them, he swore that he would make me smart for
it, if there was justice to be had in the Province Watson retired to
the House of one of my settlers from whence he addressed me a letter,
copies of it and my answer I now enclose I cannot comprehend his
meaning when he states the ruin of himself and family unless it is
to be inferred by his not being allowed to realize his speculative system,
neither can I understand how the three hundred families that he men-
tions are to suffer and be lost to the Province as I cannot conceive it



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 1OO

probable that if such families are about to emigrate into this country
that they can make any reasonable demur at not being charged more
than the usual fees for their grants of land from the Crown.

he however soon after expressed his desire that I would get as
many settlers on the road in Southwold as I could as he proposed
placing those that he might bring from Lower Canada, in Westminster
of course had he intimated his intention of bringing forward such p'er-
gons as chance should 1 offer to him in this Province and the demand
of the douceur of sixty two Dollars and a half for himself, I should
not have given him any encouragement, from all that I can learn
the check that he has met with in levying the contribution gives uni-
versal satisfaction as it effectually proves to the good people of this
Country the fostering care of the Government in preventing such
impositions as many individuals would be disposed to burthen the
Crown lands. Watson also assorts that I advised him to encourage
settlers from the U. S. the whole that occurred on that subject is as
follows, on his first visit to Port Talbot he remarked that the Govern-
ments of Lower and Upper Canada granted Lands to Persons from the
States, that he was acquainted with numbers who were in every respect
Loyal to Great Britain but who resided within the United States and
contiguous to Lower Canada he asked if I thought that such persons
would be received into this Province ? My reply was that if They were
actually as he [torn] described, I did not apprehend any objection being!
made to them I [torn] I am heartily tired of [torn] and trust that I
will not again have to trouble you on his subject, but considering myself
acting for the Government I am desirous that His Excellcy. should be
made acquainted with every step that I have taken in the business at
the same time it is a good lesson to me to be more reserved and on
my guard with the straglers of America in future.

The Bearer of Watson's letter is a young man, who has arrived
within a few days from Lower Canada, he states that there will be
upwards of sixty families remove from thence to Westminster in the
month of June or July next, which if correct, may possibly induce
The Lieut. Govr. not to take any notice of the transactions that has
passed between Watson and myself further than by giving him to
understand that the persons to be brought forward by him for land
must unquestionably be from Lower Canada as shd. The Government
not think fit to continue him as the Leader of the body that employed
him in the [torn] first place to apply for a Tract, They mighti possibly
conceive that Land would not be granted to them and in consequence
not remove to this Province.



110 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

W. Halton to Colonel Talbot.

York 15th March 1811.
My Dear Colonel,

The Governor having desired your friend Mr. Shenich to call at
a very barbarous hour tomorrow morning I must steal a quarter of an
hour before Dinner ready to acknowledge and answer your Dispatch
brought by the above named Messenger.

First we all rejoice that the most valuable Person in the Province,
was safely restored to his Domestick Comforts. Next, His Excellency
desires me to say, he approves entirely of what you have done, and
requests you will continue rigidly to enforce His Orders as contained
in your Letters. I regret very much the conduct of my friend S.
Zelotes. He seems to be rather more attached to the Concerns of this
world, than the Original Person from whence he took his name But
1 suppose its all fish that come to His Net. Mrs. Gore is considerably
better and desires her kindest Regards I have nothing new & hope
you have received my letter by Sovereign. He took Mr. Rolph's Com-
mission & I put one ,into his Hands app. Him Surrogate on which the
Beast never uttered a single word. Should your brother marry into
the Honble family of the Rolph's We'll displace Sovereign if you should
wish it. To convey to you everything, that's interesting, I enclose the
last York Gazette, to which I also add the last from Kingston. The
Toronto sailed to-day with the Niagara Members. Believe me ever my
dear Colonel very faithfully yours,

W. HALTON.
The Hon'ble Colonel Talbot.



Lieutenant-Governor Francis Gore to Colonel Talbot (1811).

Saturday Morning 16 March

8 o'clock P.M.
Major snoring.
My Dear Talbot,

You must take small scraps from me and give me credit for good
intentions towards you I am to have leave to visit England, therefore
impose your Commissions I shall send you the most improved Imple-
ments of Agriculture.

Do not let that Rascal Watson slip through those delicate hands
of yours You acted most prudently and judiciously by warning him
of his danger in my name Would to God every one in the Province
would use it to so good a purpose.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 111

The House of Assembly are likely to facilitate my plan of seeing
England by taking the Government into their own hands. At least
Joe's party have given notice of a motion to be made early in the flext
session to enquire into the conduct of the Executive Government. I
am sorry to say the Eascals have given nothing towards the culture of
Hemp but have appropriated 3500 for Eoads & 400 for printing-
the Laws the latter sum is waste.

Sir James Craig has undergone the operation of tapping, and had
four gallons & a half of water taken from him he is much relieved,
and I fear the poor fellow natters himself with some Years of life
to come.

I really am serious in my wish to execute your commissions in
England therefore consider how far I may be useful When I am
gone, for God sake look occasionally upon the Chief 1 and take care of
the Surveyor Generals & Clerk of the Council,

Adieu My Dr. Talbot,

Most truly and faithfully yrs.

F. GORE.



S. Z. Watson to Colonel Talbot.
Copy.

Sir Westminster 22nd March 1811.

I have just compleatecl a true statement of facts relative to the
whole of my proceedings in obtaining lands for myself and followers
in this Province, with an exposition of all my intercourse with you on
the subject, with copies of your letters to me and my remarks thereon;
the whole accompanied with an address to the Lt. Govr. of this Province ;
all which I mean to lay before His Excelcy. ere long, and as all the
facts that I have stated regarding you (every one of which I can and
will prove to His Excellency's satisfaction) will bear hard upon you,
it therefore highly concerns you to prevent my laying them before His
Majesty's Eepresentative (for you will find him no longer your friend
when he is convinced you are not an honest man) by repairing the
serious injuries you have done to me and my settlement. You must be
sensible that your late conduct does not merit this nor any other atten-
tion from me; but from a retrospective view of your hospitality and
friendship to me when I was a stranger in the Province, has induced
me once more to offer you the hand of friendship under the hope that
you will by your future conduct, merit it in atoning past offences. It

1 Chief Justice Thomas Scott.



112 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

gave me real pleasure to speak honourably of you and exert myself to
the utmost in obtaining as many good people as possible to settle and
make valuable the country adjoining and near you, thro the whole
course of my journey of seven hundred miles in the States and among
my friends in Lower Canada, last summer and autumn when I thought
you the best of men and my real friend; and I wish you to be assured
that no occurrence of my life has ever given me such real pain as to
be obliged to think otherwise of you. I am therfore still willing to
forget and forgive the serious injuries you have done me upon the
exprinciple that I hope there is yet a latent spark of Honour in your
Soul, (which pride and other passions have hitherto kept in a state of
dormantry, which will now be awakened, and induce you to acknowledge
with the immortal Pope that an honest man is the noblest work
of God.)

Under this hope I am still willing to go hand in hand with you
as we had agreed in pursuing and effecting the laudable and pleasing
task of adding to the strength by augmenting the numbers of His
Majesty's Subjects with thousands of Industrious Inhabitants and real-
ize the pleasing anticipation which I have kept in view from the begin-
ning of co-operating with you in trying induce them to be dutiful and
Loyal as well as usefull and industrious subjects.

In addressing you as above I have repressed my feelings as an
injured man, and it will depend on your answer by the Bearer whether
they will ever be called into action again. If he returns with a written
statement from you, in any way your good sense may dictate, placing,
me and my Settlement in that favourable and 'prosperous point of view
we were in previous to your last journey to Yorke and your memorable
return via Westminster, well, if not I shall immediately proceed to
Yorke and lay the whole before the Lieut. Govr. and should any unfor-
scen cause induce His Excellency to decide against me, that will fix an
indelible seal upon your fate and mine. I shall then turn to you the
primary and ultimate cause of all my misfortunes, my present enter-
prize having placed me in a situation that all my present and future
prospects for myself and family must depend upon the event of it. I
am therefore most solemnly and decidedly determined that the only
means I will leave in your power to prevent me from effecting it, will
be to deprive me of life ; and the strongest motive that has induced me
to send you this, is to put it in your power to avert a resort to awfull
and momentous alternatives, thus have I made up my mind and await
your answer and as it may be, I am Sir,

Yr. Humbl. Sert.

sigd. S. Z. WATSON.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 118

Eeport of Executive Council to Lieutenant Governor Gore.
Copy.

Executive Council Chamber, in the town of York, Saturday the 27th
of April, 1811.

PRESENT

The Honble Thomas Scott Chief Justice Chairman

The Honble John McGill

The Honble Mr. Justice Powell.

The Honble Prideaux Selby.

To His Excellency Francis Gore Esquire, Lieutenant Governor of the
Province of Upper Canada, &c. &c. &c.

May -It Please Your Excellency.

The Committee of the Executive Council to which your Excellency
was pleased to refer the Memorial of Simon Zelotes Watson, state-
ment of facts, and the Correspondence between him and Mr. Talbot,
has considered with great attention the subject referred, and admitting
the veracity of the statement, so far as it is supported by evidence, sees
no Cause to advise Your Excellency to withdraw the Trust reposed in
Mr. Talbot at the express desire of Mr. Wa.tson. The Committee is
sensible of inadvertence in not requiring from Mr. Watson the Names
and Description of the Settlers in Lower Canada for whom the Tract
in Westminster was to be appropriated, on his recommendation; and
therefore, now humbly submits to your Excellency, the expediency of
withholding all future Grants on such Recommendation, until Mr.
Watson shall have deposited in the Council office, Lists of the Xames
and Descriptions of the Persons resident in Lower Canada denominated
his followers, and then only to such as shall appear to the Council, or
be certified by Mr. Talbot, to be of that description. In thus offering
its Opinion and Advice, on Mr. Watson's Memorial, the Committee is
desirous to mark with the strongest reprehension, the Memorialist's
Declaration, that the first idea he entertained of Restriction as to his
followers, was from the Correspondence of Mr. Talbot. Whereas his
Application was specific, and the Pledge of the Executive Government
equally so, for British Subjects settled in Lower Canada.

The Committee perceives so much disingenuity in this disavowal
by Mr. Watson, of the Essence of his Contract, that it would recommend
to your Excellency, to rescind the Order on his first Memorial, but from
possible injury to his original Employers contemplating an immediate

Sec. II., 1907. 8.



114 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

settlement in this Province. On their account, and to obviate any
Injury to Individuals from even an abuse of the Confidence of the
Executive Government it is humbly submitted, that the Tract in West-
minster (except such lots as were in part, or wholly occupied before
the Survey) should be kept open for the arrival of such Settlers, until*
the first of January next.

The Committee begs leave to observe to Your Excellency, that it
was not in. its contemplation to recommend any interference between
Mr. Watson and his followers, as to any private Contract they might
have 'entered into for remuneration of his services but merely that Mr.
Talbot should be authorized to communicate to actual Settlers, and
others recommended, that Government would not withhold the Location,
or Patent, for any such Private Consideration between them and Mr.
Watson. Xor does it appear necessary to give any larger construction
to the Terms of Mr. Talbot's Letter of the 2nd of March 1811.

The Vindictive Spirit of Mr. Simon Zelotes Watson is so manifest
in his several Letters to Mr. Talbot, and holds forth such Menace of
his Life, that the Committee cannot but apprehend personal Danger
to Mr. Talbot, unless Measures be taken to bind Mr. Watson in recog-
nizance, with Sureties, to keep the Peace, which, have accordingly been
directed.

All which is humbly submitted

Approved (signed) THOS. SCOTT,

(signed) FRANCIS GORE Chairman.

Lt. Governor. (a true copy).

(signed) JOHN SMALL,

Clk of the Executive Council

Indorsed.

Copy of a Report of the Committee of the Executive Council relative to
the Memorial of S. Z. Watson &c. Dated 27th April, 1811.



Lieutenant Governor Gore to Colonel Talbot.
Private.

York 3rd May, 1811.
Dear Talbot,

Altho' Halton who sailed for Niagara yesterday, promised to write
to you from thence, and transmit to you Duplicates of the enclosed
Proceedings of Council, and of his letter to Mr. Simon Zelotes Watson
I shall forward my enclosures to Major St. John.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 115

Mr. Watson was very lengthy in his statements, so much so that
it would be consuming too much time to have them copied therefore
you have instead the Essence of our determination respecting his Set-
tlers I hope you perfectly understand, that this Government never
intended to interfere, with Watson's private arrangements with those
Persons, who he may bring from Lower Canada as settlers

It now rests with yourself whether or not you will continue to act
for Watson if your Agency is withdrawn, oW,his People must appear
before the Council at York, and perhaps (as Watson has very much
altered his tone) you may show your magnanimity by continuing to pass
his Kecruite

The case of Jacobus Shenich and Leonard Westbrooke, I wish you
to consider, as I think they may be 'entitled to some indulgence I
think however it may give Mr. Watson a ground of complaint, if they
are permitted to settle on any of the Lands kept open for Watson's
followers great caution will be necessary on your part, so that no open-
ing may be made for his complaints

Mr. Stanton has just come into the Eoom to inform me, that Mr.
S. Z. W. told him he meant to prosecute you, but added provided the
Colonel did not interfere again with him You will laugh at and despise
all such puerile nonsense and I feel assured that you will protect the
character of the Government, both as to its faith with Mr. W. and the
treatment of his Settlers.

My plans are not yet decided, but I fear I shall not be able to
make my escape from this delightful country quite so soon, as I had
anticipated

Mrs. Gore has been tolerably well, but is I fear relapsing.

I am writing in a great hurry therefore cannot detail all tire
interesting incidents which have lately occurred here.

Yours truly

F. GORE.

The Chief is well.
Col. T albot.



Colonel Talbot to Lieutenant-Governor Gore.

Private.

Port Talbot 13th May 1811.

My Dear Governor.

I had the honour of receiving your letter of the 3rd Int. last night
by the conveyance of a faithful Moravian Indian enclosing copies of
the report of the Executive Council relative to Mr. S. Z. Watson's



116 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Memorial, and Major Halton's letter, communicating your Excellency's
decision in Council to that person Nothing could in my humble opinion
be more judicious and (necessarily) explicit, than the determination
therein contained as had Mr. Watson not have been checked in the
manner he had been, the extravagance of his projects would shortly
have produced serious cause of complaint from such as might unwarily
submit to his impositions and also create a discontent amongst a certain
description of persons, who fancy that from their former services or
other pretentions they may be more entitled to the benevolence of Gov-
ernment, than a stranger. For instance on my way home from York
last winter Mr. Richd. Hatt remarked in my presence, " that he would
apply for 20 or 30 miles of road to settle as he felt from his situation
that he had a better claim to the aid of Government than that Watson
and that he could with little difficulty find a sufficient number in the Pro-
vince willing to pay him 100 Dolrs on each lot." I of course corrected
him, as there were several persons present, particularly a merchant
from MtReal, adding that none would be accepted of by Government
as the followers of Mr. W. but such as actually came from Lower Can-
ada Your Excellency directs my attention to the two cases of Jacobus
Shenich and Leonard Westbrooke from what I can learn Watson, a
few days previous to his last journey to York went to the above persons
(whom he had himself placed on lots in Westminster) and declared to
them that he would turn them off and put some of his Lower Canada
people on the lots they occupied, unless they each of them gave their
bond for the payment of his demand of the difference between the
established fees and 100 Dollars which they accordingly complied with,
with this proviso, that they shd. obtain the grant of their land thro'
his recommendation, and altho' I cannot but censure Shenich & West-
brooke for involving themselves with Watson, as they were perfectly
sensible that they were not of the description for whom the Land in
Westminster was appropriated yet any indulgence and protection which
your Excellency may be disposed to extend them, would afford me real
pleasure, as I consider them to be honest and industrious men and if
your Excellency will take the trouble to examine Mr. Watson's survey
of Westminster you will perceive that it includes three Concessions from
the River Thames, whereas if I properly comprehend the intentions of
Governt. towards Mr. W. he is confined to the two Concessions; butting
upon The Road and I believe that Shenich and Westbrooke are both of
them settled in the third Conn, consequently it will admit of the con-
sideration of yr. Exy. the Council, whether Watson followers are to
extend to the 3d Conn, or not.



[COYNB] THE TALBOT PAPERS 117

I have the honour of perfectly coincide with Your Excellency in
the propriety of my continuing the agency for Mr. Watson's Settlers,
as, shd. I decline acting, it would have the appearance of timidity on
my part, and also occasion such serious additional trouble and expense
to his people in being compeled personally to attend the Executive
Council, that it might deter many valuable subjects from settling in
the Province. I can 'execute the trust reposed in me, without occa-
sioning any further invitation, and permit me to assure your Excellency
that my endeavours will ever tend to the support of that character of
dignity which the Government so justly merits and I am confident
that not any instance of my abusing will ever occur of the Crown pro-
perty committed to my guardianship.

Permit me now my dear sir, to express to you, that it is with real
grief, that I am led from yr. letter to apprehend a change for the worse
in the state of Mrs. Gore's health perhaps the uncertainty of her revisit-
ing England so soon as she had anticipated may in a great measure
occasion her depression, have the goodness to present her my kindest
regards and sincere prayers for her happiness. I have judged it pru-
dent to forward the Indian who brought your dispatch with this letter
and beg leave to recommend him to the bounty of the Indian Depart't.



Surveyor General Ridout to Colonel Talbot.

York 15 May 1811.
My dear Sir

Agreeably to your request I commit to the care of Mr. Nichol
this Letter & a sketch shew'g the Location of Francois & Denis Drouil-
lard in Harwich. I should also have given you in charge to Mr. Nichol,
the Inspection and plans for Mr. Bin-well's Survey but Mr. Chewitt
having been confined for the week past by lameness, I shall not have
them ready till some next week when I will send them under cover
to Mr. Crooks at Niagara for M. Burwell as he desired

I write in haste, but

am Dear Sir

Very truly yours

T. RIDOUT.
S.G.

The Honble. Col. Talbot

Port Talbot

on Lake Erie.



118 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Lieutenant Governor Gore to Colonel Talbot.

Private

Government House

York 25th May 1811

My Dear Talbot,

I have received your letter of the 13th (on the 2M) b. your 1
trusty Moravian who returns with the survey of Westminster.

I am much gratified to find, that our proceedings meet with your
approbation, as your friend the Chief says " we mean to do well." You
have acted just as I expected, by not injuring your Agency, much con-
fusion and perplexity will now be avoided I have been making every
inquiry about the laying out of Westminster, and find that there is as
yet no third Concession, but Mr. Watson having discovered after he
had run out a Road, and a Concession on each side, that he was more
remote from the River than he expected applied to me for permission
to locate the broken front of the two Concessions for him and his
settlers When this Indulgence was granted I certainly entertained a
different view of this persons speculation, from that in which I now
behold it, yet having directed the reserve of the Front to be communi-
cated to him, it must be strictly complied with, but I shall authorize
no location on the broken Fronts, untill every lot on the street is occu-
pied, and they will be kept open exclusively for Mr. Watson's settlers
no longer than the first of January next, conforming to the re-
solution adopted in Council. Mr. Watson should also expressly
understand, that no location on his recommendation will be permitted,
on Lots, or Parts of Lots, occupied by others (however improperly)
before he went to the ground. It must remain with the Government
to exercise favour, as strict justice to those Intruders may be advisable.

I had forgot to mention to you, that I consider it absurd to extend
Watson's location out of the Road until that object is accomplished,
more particularly as the Crown & Clergy Reserves were removed ex-
pressly for the purpose of facilitating the completion of this Road-
Nothing further occurs to me respecting Mr. Watson.

Mrs. Gore is certainly much better, although our hopes are
damp'd as to seeing England for some time Perhaps we may get
away in October she says she will not permit me to say all the pretty
things, which your prettier deeds towards her deserve (for she has got
the matts from Bobby) but will write to you herself Halton is em-
ployed in a most important concern viz cotonning the Floor of the
Ball Room for our elegantes to shove away on the 4th of June

I have sent you two John Camerons The French (Boston Papers
say) have entirely evacuated Portugal Graham's action near Cadiz was



f COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 119

most glorious My friend Col. Barnard is particularized in the Dispatch,
and received two wounds The English Papers seem more hostile
towards our neighbours, than our neighbours are towards us

I hope we shall see you soon Brock is gone to Quebec, to toady
whoever may succeed Sir James Craig, as he I think will not survive
the voyage to England All your frjends desire best regards have you
heard from your Tortola Brother.

Believe me

My Dr. Talbot

Most truly

F. GORE.

Ye Indian has had most liberal Presents a complete suit of cloa thing
&c. &c. Thank Givins.

Col. Talbot.



Colonel Robert Nichol to Colonel Talbot.

May 311811
My Dear Colonel

I have been some days returned from York but have not had before
to-day an opportunity of writing to you At York I was very temperate
everyway & the Governor and myself parted I hope mutually satis-
fied with each other The Governor was exceedingly civil and I found
there my friend General Brock then on his way to Lower Canada to
take his farewell of Sir James Craig I am so much engaged that you
must be satisfied with a hasty sketch of news Sir James it is said is
to be succeeded by Popularity Jack alias Genl. Doyle Sir George
Nugent was at one time talked of but he has since been appointed to
ihe East Indies

You will see in the papers the official account of a glorious Victory
gained over a very superior French Force near Cadiz in which our old
acquaintance Bernard had a conspicuous share and also the Official
account of the Capture of the Isle of France with very trifling loss

Just before I left Niagara an intelligent gentleman of my acquain-
tance arrived from Albany he said that the morning of his departure a
paper was received from New York mentioning that Lord Wellington's
dispatches detailing the retreat & pursuit of the French till their final
expulsion from Portugal were received & would be published the fol-
lowing day and that the loss of the French in killed & wounded &



J20 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

prisoners was immense I shall lose no time in forwarding you the
confirmation when it arrives

I send you some garden seeds also some packets addressed to you

from Niagara & York

The Governor says you are in part mistaken in Watson's business
& that he is still to have the recommending & settling of the Lower
Canada settlers By the Bye he is a most infamous rascal he represented
you at York as concerned with him in the speculation and dwelt much
on a letter which he had induced you to write to him which of course
was merely to shew that he was not an impostor.

The following persons have paid fees on Lands Moses Plant,
Isaac Crane, Jesse Tyrrel or Turrel has also lodged money but it was
in my absence & Mr. Bell ( ?) gave him a transferable receipt I expect
him to call soon when his business shall be done

I shall forward Crane's & Plant's Petitions & Certify that they
have been accepted by you

No accounts as yet of your Brother

Adieu always very faithfully
Yours

BOB. NICHOL.

I have no tea kettles at present.

The Honble Colonel Talbot

Port Talbot.



Colonel Talbot to Surveyor General Ridout (Draft of letter).

Port Talbot 4th June 1811
My Dear Sir

I had the pleasure of receiving your letter dated the 15th and
and 17th of last month with their enclosures for which I return you
many thanks Mr. Burwell left Port Talbot on Sunday last for York
for the purpose of receiving his instructions I understood from him
that tbere had some mistake occurred respecting the particular surveys
that I had submitted to the Lieutenant Governor's consideration and
which His Excellency was pleased to approve of, and direct Major
Halton to communicate his orders on the subject to you I am almost
positive that Major Halton wrote the notes (I think) which I carried
myself to The Surveyor General's office No. 1 that Mr. Burwell shd.
run a line and lay out lots thereon under my direction to connect the



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 121

Talbot Eoad with the Road thro' Westminster No. 3 to continue my
Road as stated by you to Amherstburgh. No. 3 that the vacant Lots
in Yarmouth shd. be reserved for me to recommend settlers for, No. 4
that Mallahide & Bayham shd. be reserved in like manner for my
recommendation To connect the Talbot Eoad with Westminster is of
the first consequence as without that all my exertions for affording
facility of communication thro' this western part of the Province will
be incomplete, as the country situated to the north has not any other
vent or means of transporting its produce but by Port Talbot without
the lengthy land carriage from Westminster thro' Dorchester Oxford
Burford &c. to the Head of Lake Ontario or else by the River Thames
which is also attended with much loss of time and expense whereas
the distance by the route that I contemplated to run the road, will
not far exceed 20 miles I have directed Mr. Burwell to proceed to
York and request of you to examine the Office Books for His Excellency's
Order on the subject and shd. you not be able to find it, 1 I am to entreat
that you will wait upon the Lieut. Govr. and explain to His Excellency
my anxiety for carrying into effect the connection of the Talbot Road
with that thro' Westminster with as little delay as possible having at
the present time an opportunity of placing a most valuable description
of settlers upon it, who have lately arrived from Nova Scotia, in fact
there are some there actually at work on the ground where I had pro-
posed the road to pass. I was led to allow them to go on it from not
harbouring a doubt but that Mr. Burwell would have long ere this had
his orders to run the line agreeably to the Governor's directions given by
whilst I was at York last winter.

I have received the mem'n describing the placing of the reserves
in the rear of those that would have fallen upon the Talbot Road and
would be glad if you would defer the final arrangement of them till
after Mr. Burwell has completed his survey when



Surveyor General Ridout to Colonel Talbot.
Surveyor Genl. Office

York 19 June 1811
My Dear Sir,

I am this day only, favoured with your letter of the 4th Instant,
but am pleased to think, that ere this time you may have seen Mr.



'The remainder of this draft of letter is written on the back of Col.
Nichol's letter of May 31.



122 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Burwell, since he was here on the 12th instant, when he received the
Instructions to connect the Talbot Boad with the Eoad through West-
minster, as well as to lay out the Eoad from Southwold to Amherst-
burgh.

In copying the Governor's orders into our books, a line was omitted
(but without injuring the sense of the paragraph) which directed the
connecting of the Westminster Eoad with Port Talbot, and thought it
was impressed on my mind, that such were His Excellency's Intentions
1 was about to make application to Major Halton on the subject, when
I was induced in the first place to refer to the original orders. I am
very sorry you should have a moment's anxiety on the subject.

Mr. Burwell took with him all the Plans excepting two & they
are now sent under your address, which he may want to direct him in
opening the Eoads under orders of Survey, the plans omitted and now
sent, are of Mersea and Maiden I likewise send you a ivduced Plan
of Mr. Chewett's of the western half of this Province beginning at the
eastern boundary of the County of York. From this plan be so kind
as to allow Mr. Burwell to take such copy as he may find necessary to
facilitate his operations.

I have made a minute to remove the Clergy Eeserve from No. 14
3rd Concession of Bayham to Lot No. 1 in the same Concession, agree-
ably to your request, and which I shall submit to His Excellency as
soon as he returns from Niagara, which we expect will be tomorrow.

The final settling of the Eeserves, till the Eoad is laid out, I shall
also recommend, m manner as you suggest as the best means of pre-
venting injury being done to the settlement.

Altho' the settling of the extensive Tract around you will unavoid-
ably give you some trouble & much anxiety, yet the peopling of so fine
a country, with loyal & industrious inhabitants, will bring its own
recompense in the satisfaction you must feel, in being so instrumental
in accomplishing the best wishes of the Government. Mrs. E. is much
obliged in yr. remembrance of her.

I am my dear sir

very faithfully yours

THOS. EIDOUT,

Sr. Gen'l.

The Honble

Col. Talbot

Port Talbot



THE TALBOT PAPERS 123

Colonel Kobcct Nichol to Colonel Talbot.
Dear Sir.

Adolphus Bostwick goes up to settle in Westminster I have
referred him to you for a location trusting that no difficulty would
arise I have received his fees he has sold out here and intends
becoming an immediate settler.

A man named Townsend who spoke to us in York went on to the
same place some time ago he appears to be a decent man.

I am Dr. Sir, '

Yours truly

BOB. XICHOL.
(addressed on the back)

The Honble

Colonel Talbot

Port Talbot.



Adjutant-General Shaw to Colonel Talbot.
Adjutant General's Office

York 12th February 1812.
Militia General Orders.

His Honor the President T has been pleased to make the following
appointments

1st Eegt. Middlesex

Samuel Edison 2 Esqr. to be Captain 17th Feby. 1812

Samuel Axford Gent, to be Lieutenant .... 17th Feby. 1812
Samuel Harris, Gent, to be Ensign 17th Feby. 1812

/ENEAS SHAW, S .

Adjt. General Mili'a U.C.
Colonel Talbot

Command'g. 1st Eegt. Middlesex Militia.



- General Sir Isaac Brock

3 Of Vienna, U.C., grandfather of the celebrated electrician nd inventor,
Thomas A. Edison. Born in "New Jersey, 1760, died at Vienna, 1864. He
was the father of eleven sons.

'Member of the Legislative and Executive Councils. Died, 1813.



124 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Adjutant-General Shaw to Colonel Talbot.

13th Feby. 1812.
Dear Talbot

In the hurry of transcribing your list, I omitted the name of one
Captain one Lieut, and one Ensign, in the order sent to you. I now
send you them.

Yours always,



SHAW.
Indorsed :

On Service
Colonel Talbot

Command'g 1st Regt. Middlesex Militia.

To go by P. Souvereign M.P.
Adjts. Genls. Office.



Captain James Brock to Colonel Talbot.

President's Office

i

York, 27th February 1812.
Sir.

I have the honor to transmit to you by command of the President,
a Commission empowering you to carry into 'effect an Act passed in the
fourth Session of the third Provincial Parliament of this Province,
entitled " an Act for the better securing this Province against all sedi-
tious attempts or designs to disturb the transquillity thereof " which
His Honor makes no doubt you will readily undertake to enforce
a Copy of the Act is herewith transmitted.

I have the honor to be

Sir
Your most Obedient

Humble Servant

JAMES BROCK.
To

Thomas Talbot Esq.



[COYNK] THE TALBOT PAPERS 128

By ISAAC BROCK, Esquire, President administering the Govern-
ment of the Province of Upper Canada, and Major-General

Commanding His Majesty's Forces therein, &c., &c., &c.

i

To Thomas Talbot of Port Talbot in the District of London, Esquire

Whereas by an Act of the Parliament of this Province, passed in
:the Forty-fourth year of His Majesty's Eeign, intituled "An Act for
" the better securing this Province against all seditious attempts or
" designs to disturb the tranquillity thereof," it is among other things
provided, " That it shall and may be lawful for ,the Governor, Lieu-
" tenant Governor, or Person administering the Government for the
" time being, to appoint such Person, or Persons as may appear to him
" proper, for the purpose of arresting such Person or Persons not hav-
" ing been an Inhabitant or Inhabitants of this Province for the space
" of six months preceding the date of his "Warrant, or not having taken
u the Oath of Allegiance to our Sovereign Lord the King, who by words
" or actions, or other behaviour or conduct, hath or have endeavoured,
" or hath or have given just cause to suspect that he, she, or they, is
" or are about to endeavour to alienate the minds of His Majesty's Sub-
jects of this Province from His Person or Government, or in any
"wise with a seditious intent to disturb the tranquility thereof."
NOW, KNOW YE, that I, ISAAC BROCK, Esquire, President, and
Major-General Commanding His Majesty's Forces within the said
Province, by virtue of the powers so vested in me under the authority
of the before recited Act, have appointed and deputed, and do by these
Presents appoint and depute you the said Thomas Talbot of Port Talbot
in the District of London Esquire, to carry into Execution the several
Provisions in the said before recited Act contained, strictly conforming
3'ourself in every particular thereto.

Given under my Hand and Seal, at Arms, at the Govern-
ment House, at York, this Twenty seventh day of February
in the year of Our Lord One thousand eight hundred and
Twelve, and of His Majesty's Reign, the fifty second.

ISAAC BROCK,

Presid't.
By His Honor's Command

JAMES BROCK.



126 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Surveyor General Ridout x to Talbot.
Surveyor General's Office,

York, 5th March 1812.
Dear Sir,

Although Lieut. Governor Gore was pleased to order a line to be
run for a Road through Westminster to join Your Road, (so called),
and also a Road from Southwoid to Amherstburgh, 2 and lots to be laid
out on the above mentioned Road, similar to those on Colonel Talbot's
yet as I do not find that this has been confirmed by any Order in
Council, as was the case, when the Road, called by your Name was
ordered to be surveyed, nd laid off in Lots from Middleton to Port
Talbot I am therefore to request, you will be so good as not to place
any settlers upon any lot on the Road surveyed by order of Lieut. Govr.
Gore, & leading from Westminster to Port Talbot, or from thence to
Amherstburgh, until it shall have been sanctioned by His Honor the
President in Council.

I have the honor to be,

Sir,
Your most obedient

humble servant

THOS. RIDOUT,

Sr. Genl.
The Honble. Thomas Talbot

at Port Talbot.



1 Thomas Ridout (born in Devonshire in 1774, died 8th Feb., 1829), was
in the service of the Government of Upper Canada from the year 1792.
Among various offices held by him were those of Notary, Sergeant-at-Arms
to the House of Assembly, Registrar of the County of York, Captain of the
York Militia, Clerk of the Peace, Clerk of the District Court, Surveyor-
General, etc., etc. He was elected a member of the Legislative Assembly
in 1812, and appointed member of the Legislative Council in 1824. (See " Ten
Years of Upper Canada. 1805-1815," by Lady Edgar.

2 The first mentioned Road is known as the North Branch of Talbot Road.
:t extends from the town-line between Dunwich and Southwoid just north

illage of fc>na. parallel to and at a distance of two and a half miles

rom Talbot Road, to Talbotville, where it turns to the northward and is

continued to London. A short extension or branch ran from Talbotville to

nect with Talbot Road at St. Thomas. The road from St. Thorns t,,

London is known as North Street. The North Branch was surveyed in 1811

by Mahlon Burwell. The road from Southwoid to Amherstburgh is known

an Talbot Road West.



THE TALBOT PAPERS 127

Printed Sheet.

An ACT to extend the Provisions of an Act passed in the forty-eighth
year of His Majesty's Reign, intituled, "An Act to Explain,
Amend and Reduce to one Act of Parliament the several Laws
now in being for the Raising and Training the Militia of 'this
Province."

(Passed 6th March, 1812.)

WHEEEAS an Act passed in the forty-eighth year of his present
Majesty's reign, intituled, "An Act to explain, amend and reduce to
one Act of Parliament the several Laws now in being, for the raising
and training the Militia of this Province," is found insufficient
for the purposes thereby intended; Be it therefore enacted by the
King's Most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and con-
sent of the Legislative Council and Assembly of the Province of
Tipper Canada, constituted and assembled by virtue of and under
the authority of an Act passed in the Parliament of Great Britain,
intituled, " An Act to repeal certain parts of an Act passed in
the fourteenth year of his Majesty's Reign, intituled, " An Act
for making more effectual provision for the government of the Pro-
vince of Quebec, in North America, and to make further provision
for the government of the said Province.'' 1 and by the authority of the
same, That there shall be to every Battalion of Militia now or hereafter
to be formed in this Province, (the strength of which will admit
thereof) two flank Companies, to consist of not more than one hundred
men each, nor in any case to compose more than one third of the
strength of such Battalion, and also all Independent Companies tveiong-
ing to any County, Eiding or Place, shall provide their quota, to com-
pose one or more flank Company or Companies, but in no case to exceed
one third of such Independent Company or Companies, to be selected
and formed from among such Militia men as shall at any meeting or
meetings of any such Battalion or Independent Companies, volunteer
for that purpose. And if it should so happen that a sufficient number
of persons shall not at any such meeting or meetings, volunteer for the
purpose aforesaid, then and in such case the deficiency shall be made
up by ballot from the Militia men of such Battalion, or Independent
Company or Companies, who shall be under the age of forty years.

II. Provided always nevertheless. That when it shall happen that
two or more persons shall be called upon servioe from one family, that
one of them shall be excused for that time unless it shall appear to the
Officer Commanding such Company of Militia, that there is another
person living in the same house, capable of taking care of the said



128 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

family, who is not then called into actual service; and also that when
a widow or aged person, shall at the time of making the said ballot,
depend for her, or his maintenance on a Son, Grandson or Appi entice,
such Son, Grandson, or Apprentice, shall be excused from service while
supporting such widow or aged person.

III. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
when any such flank Company shall be formed, it shall and may be law-
ful for the Captain or Officer Commanding the same to call out such
Company, and he is hereby required so to do, six days in each Month.
for the purpose of being trained and exercised, as may be directed by
the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, or Person administering the Gov-
ernment, and such Company shall continue its training not exceeding
the said six days in every month, until it is found that the men compos-
ing the same, are duly instructed in their exercise. Provided always,
that the Officer Commanding such Company, shall always after the said
Company shall be pronounced duly instructed, have it in his power to
call out such Company one day in each month to be exercised and
reviewed, and oftener if he shall be so directed by the Governor, Lieu-
tenant Governor, or person administering the Government. Provided
also, that such flank Company or Companies being called out for the
purpose of training, it shall not be lawful for any Field Officer, except
such as may be specially appointed for that purpose, by the Governor,
Lieutenant Governor, or Person administering the Government, to com-
mand or otherwise interfere in the said training or exercising.

IV. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid., That
it shall and may be lawful to and for the Governor, Lieutenant Gov-
ernor, or Person administering the Government, from time to time,
as occasion may require, to appoint such and so many Staff Officers to
the Militia of this Province, as he may think necessary, and also from
time to time to remove any Militia Officer, now or hereafter to be
appointed, and appoint another in his stead.

V. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That it
shall and may be lawful to and for the Governor, Lieutenant! Governor,
or Person administering the Government, as often as occasion shall
require, to order any and every of the said Companies, to march to any
part of this Province, upon any such duty as he shall think necessary.

VI. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
it shall and may be lawful for the Captain, or other Officer commanding
any company of Militia, if he shall think necessary, to divide his Com-
pany into squads of such numbers as to him shall sc.em proper, and the
convenience of the men of such Company shall require, and that the
Captain or other Officer commanding any such Company as aforesaid,



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 129

shall always appoint some fit and proper person to exercise and instruct
in Military discipline, the men to be assembled at each of the said squad
meetings, and that if any non Commissioned Officer or Private shall
refuse to obey the lawful orders of his superior Officer when employed
on Militia duty, or shall quarrel with, or insult by abusive words, or
otherwise, any Officer, or Non-Commissioned Officer, being in the exe-
cution of his duty, or otherwise misbehave himself whilst on duty as
aforesaid, it shall and may be lawful to and for the Commanding Officer
then and there present, to order every such offender or offenders to be
taken into custody, and forthwith tried by a Court Martial, to be com-
posed of three or more Officers of the said Militia, who, upon proof of
the offence by the Oath of one or more credible witness or witnesses,
(which Oath the President of the said Court Martial is hereby author-
ized to administer) shall and may order and sentence every such offender
to pay a fine, not exceeding five pounds, nor less than five shillings,
at the discretion of the Court, and according to the nature of
the offence, and in default of payment, commit such offender to the
common Gaol of the District, for a term not exceeding one month, nor
less than three 1 days, or until the amount of such fine shall be paid,
any law to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding.

VII. And be it further enacted ~by the authority aforesaid, That
in all trials by any Court Martial, other than General Courts Martial,
the person appointed to be President thereof, shall administer to .each
of the other Members, the following Oath: You A. B. do swear that
you will administer Justice to the best of your understanding in the
matter now before you, according to the Militia Laws of this Province,
a nd the evidence which shall be produced before you, without partiality,
favour or affection. So help you God. And as soon as the said Oath
shall have been administered by the President to the other Members,
any one of the said Members shall administer the said Oath to the

President.

VIII. And be it further enacted' by the authority aforesaid, That
whenever it shall so happen that there shall not be a sufficient number
of Officers present to compose a Court as aforesaid, it shall and may be
lawful to and for the Commanding Officer to detain such offender in
custody, until a Court can be assembled for the trial of such offender.
Provided such Court can be obtained within twelve hours from the
'lime of such confinement, and in case a Court as herein before directed,
cannot be assembled within twelve hours, such offender shall be released
from such confinement, and tried under the provisions of the Act of the
forty-eighth of the King, intituled, " An Act to explain, amend and

Sec. II., 1907. 9.



ISO 11OYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

reduce to one Act of Parliament, the several Laws now in being, for the
raising and training the Militia of this Province."

IX. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
if any person or persons shall presume to disturb, interrupt, or molest,
any party of Militia, whilst on duty, it shall and may be lawful to and
for the Commanding Officer of such party, to order any such person or
persons to be carried before any one of his Majesty's Justices of the
Peace, who shall be next to the place where the offence may be com-
mitted, who 'upon proof of the offence by the oath of one or more witness
or witnesses, shall and may order and adjudge every such offender to
pay a fine not exceeding five pounds, nor less than ten shillings, and
in default of payment, to commit him to the common Goal of the Dis-
trict, for a term not exceeding one month, nor less than ten days, unless
the fine is sooner by him paid.

X. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That it
shall and may be lawful to and for the Governor, Lieutenant Governor,
or Person administering th Government, from time to time, and as
often as occasion shall require, to make such regulations as he shall
think necessary, for the care and custody of any Arms and Accoutre-
ments provided and supplied in order to the instruction of the Militia
men to be trained and exercised; and also from time to time as occa-
sion may require, by any order or orders to be made and issued for
that purpose, to declare and establish the dress and uniform, to be worn

' by any and every part of the Militia of this Province. Provided always,
that nothing herein contained, shall be construed to oblige any Militia
man to provide any uniform at his own expense.

XI. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
so much of the said Act passed in the forty-eighth year of the King,
intituled, "An Act to explain, amend and reduce to one Act of Parlia-
ment, the several Laws now in being, for the raising and training the
Militia of this Province," as directs that no Company of Militia shall
consist of more than fifty men, shall be and the same is hereby repealed,
and that every Company shall and may consist of a number not exceed-
ing one hundred men.

XII. And whereas it may be convenient to form one or more
Company or Companies of Eiflemen in this Province, Be it enacted by
the authority aforesaid, That it shall and may be lawful for the Gov-
ernor, Lieutenant Governor, or Person administering the Government
of this Province, to form and embody such Company or Companies,
and employ the same on such duties as the necessity of the service may
require.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 131

XIII. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
every Officer of the Militia of this Province, shall on or before the
fourth day of June next ; and, every Officer who may after that day be
appointed, within eight days after he shall have received his Commis-
sion, before one; or more of his Majesty's Justices of the Peace, for the
District to which his Eegiment, Battalion or Company shall belong, take
and subscribe the following Oath, to wit: I, A. B. do sincerely promise
and swear, that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to his Majesty,
King George the Third, as lawful Sovereign of the United Kingdom of
Great Britain and Ireland', and of this Province, as dependant thereon,
and that I will defend him to the utmost of my power against all traitor-
ous conspiracies and attempts whatsoever, which shoM be made against
his Person, Crown and Dignity, and particularly his Dominions in
North America, and) that I will do my utmost endeavour to disclose and
make known to his Majesty, his heirs or successors, all treasons and
traitorous conspiracies and attempts, which I shall know to be against
him, or any of them, and to all this. I do swear without any equivocation,
mental evasion, or secret reservation, and renouncing all pardons and
dispensations from any person or power whatsoever, to the contrary.
So help me God.

XIV. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
it shall and may be lawful to and for the Governor, Lieutenant Gov-
ernor, or Person administering the Government, to order and direct
that the Non-Commissioned Officers and Privates of any and every
Eegiment, Battalion, Company or body of Militia in this Province,
shall be called upon to take and subscribe the said Oath of Allegiance,
and that upon receiving any orders for that purpose, it shall and may
be lawful, to and for the Commanding Officer of such Regiment, Bat-
talion, or Company, and he is hereby required to call upon every Non-
Commissioned Officer or Private of his Regiment, Battalion or Company,
to take and subscribe the said Oath, before one or more of his Majesty's
Justices of the Peace for the District to which such Regiment, Battalion,
or Company shall belong, which Oath shall be administered free of
expense, and that every Justice of the Peace administering such Oath,
shall forward a Certificate thereof, to the Clerk of the Peace of the
District to be enrolled, which such Clerk of the Peace is hereby required
to do free of expense, and if any Officer,, Non-Commissioned Officer,
or Private, (having been required so to do) shall refuse or neglect to
take and subscribe the said Oath, in manner hereby directed, upon con-
viction before any General Quarter Sessions of the Peace, or in time of
actual Invasion or Insurrection, before any Court Martial, every such
person or persons shall be deemed and taken to be an alien, and shall



132 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

be liable and subject to any law or laws now in force, or hereafter to
be made, respecting or against aliens.

XV. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
PO much of the said Act as directs that any Body or Detachment of
Militia, which may be called out by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor,
or Person administering- the Government, shall and may be- detained 011
such service, for and during the space of six months at one time, and
no longer, shall be and the same i& hereby repealed.

XVI. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
at the expiration of six months, from the time of any such Detachment
being called out as aforesaid, one third of the men of such Detachment
shall be selected by ballot, and if relieved, by an equal number of men,
shall be discharged, and at the expiration of seven months from the
time of calling out such Detachment, another third shall be selected,
and if relieved, discharged in like manner, and at the expiration of
eight months, the remaining third, if relieved, shall be discharged.

XVII. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid. That
it shall and may be lawful to and for any Colonel or other Officer Com-
manding any Eegiment, Battalion, or Company, and he is hereby re-
quired to call out his Eegiment, Battalion, or Company, whenever he
f-hall be directed so to do, for the purpose of being Inspected or Reviewed,
by any Inspecting Field Officer of Militia, or other Field Officers of
the line, who may be sent for that purpose; and that Lieutenant Col-
onels in his Majesty's Army, serving with any part of the Militia in
this Province, shall command all Militia Officers whatever, any thing
in the said in part recited Act to the contrary notwithstanding.

XVIII. 'And be it further enacted- by the authority aforesaid,
That every Militia man whose services may be accepted of in any volun-
teer Corps, now or hereafter to be raided, shall be exempted from serving
as a Militia man under this or the before mentioned Act, whilst he
shall belong to any such Corps, as aforesaid, and also that every person
serving in any flank Company, shall not be liable to any personal Arrest
on any civil Process, or to serve as Juror, or to perform duty as a
Town, or Parish Officer, or Statute labour on the High-ways, during
the time he shall continue in such flank Companies, any law to the con-
trary in any wise notwithstanding.

XIX. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
any Non-Commissioned Officer or Private Militia-man, who in any
engagement with an enemy, or by any accident or casualty which may
occur while on, or performing any duty in actual service, shall be killed,
and shall leave a Widow, or Child or Children lawfully begotten, his
said Widow shall be entitled to receive during her widowhood, and in



THE TALBOT PAPERS 133

case of the death of such Widow, then the eldest Child, or Guardian,
for the use of the child or 'children of such Non-Commissioned Officer,
or Private Militia-man, until the youngest thereof, shall have attained
the age of sixteen years, an annuity of five pounds lawful money
of this Province, and also that every Non-Commissioned Officer,
or Private of Militia, who in any engagement with an enemy, or by any
accident or casualty which may occur while on, or performing an/ dutv
in actual service, shall be wounded or disabled, so as to be rendered in-
capable of earning his livelihood, shall be allowed an annuity of nine
pounds lawful money of this Province, during the time he shall con^
tinue under such incapacity.

XX. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
so much of an Act passed in the forty-eighth year of his Majesty's
reign, intituled, "An Act to explain, amend and reduce to one Act of
Parliament, the several laws now in being for the raising and training
the Militia of this Province," as directs how Militia fines are to be
disposed of, be and the same is hereby repealed.

XXI. And it be further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
all sums of money arising from fines, forfeitures and penalties, by this
or the above recited Act imposed, together with a list of such fines, for-
feitures and penalties shall, as soon after the thirty first day of Decem-
ber in every year, as practicable, be transmitted by the Magistrate or
Officer respectively receiving the same, to the Eeceiver General of this
Province, to be" disposed of as the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, or
Pereon administering the Government, shall direct, to purposes only
that shall respect the said Militia, and which shall be accounted for to
the Crown, through the Commissioners of his Majesty's treasury, for
the time being, as the Crown shall direct.

XXII. Provided always. That this present Act shall continue and
be in force until the first day of January next, and from thence to the
end of the then next ensuing Session of the Legislature of this Province,
and no longer.



Draft of letter, 1 Col. Talbot to Capt. Jas. Brock, March, 1812.
Sir.

I have the honor to state for the information of Major General
Brock that I have this day received a letter from The Surveyor Genl.

1 The draft is in substantial accord with the letter sent, which is now
in the Archives at Ottawa. The draft contains only the first paragraph.
What follows it is taken from the letter in the Archives.



134 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

directing that I should not for the present allow settlers to occupy Lots
on a Road which Lt. Govr. Gore gave orders for the Survey of under
my direction (for actual settlers) to connect Talbot Road with the Road
thro' Westminster which survey was performed during the last sum-
mer, and feeling confident that no difficulty would occur, I was induced
by the application of several persons who had come from Nova Scotia
and the lower parts of this Province to allow them to go on the Road
referred to, who have done a considerable of labour on the lots tlu\v
occupy I had the honor to recommend to Lt. Governor Gore, that such
a communication was absolutely necessary for the good of this part of
the Province, as the route of transportation by Land from Westminster
was a distance 1 of above eighty miles and by the Road that has been
purveyed under my directions, it does not exceed 24 miles to Port Talbot,
from whence the produce of the country can be sent in vessels. Lt.
Governor Gore in the first instance without any solicitation whatsoever
on my part, proposed that I should undertake the settlement of Talbot
Roads. I complied soly, for the benefit of this part of the country,
in order to prevent improper characters from getting possession of the
Crown Lands and to see that each lot should be occupied by an actual
settler, having been aware of the serious injury that many points of this
Province has sustained in consequence of Individuals holding grants of
large tracts, who never intended to be actual settlers & by which means
the extents they owned remains unimproved, so that Roads, a primary
object of importance, can not be worked to any general advantage I
had the honor, to recommend to Lt. Govr. Gore (who was pleased to
ossent) that an appropriation of an equal quantity of land which the
Talbot Roads took from l the Townships of Southwold shd. be made in
the Township of Deerham whose situation would not interfere with the
convenience of Roads of communication through this District, as from
the manner in which this particular part of the Province was shut up
before I settled at Port Talbot, by reserving whole Townships pro-
tracted the population and consequent improvement of this most excel-
lent tract of territory, at the same time by opening roads that Govern-
ment was insuring those whenever it might be the pleasure of the Crown
to dispose of the lands that were reserved for the establishment of
Seminaries, they would acquire by the acquisition of these well sottled
Roa/ls traversing them, very great additional value.

I have thus far, done myself the honor of observing upon the
particular situation of this part of the Province, trusting that from

1 In the letter as sent appear the words, " the reserves through," between
" from " and " the." These words are necessary to complete the meaning.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 133

The President's local knowledge of the Country that he will not find
it necessary to make any change in the arrangements of Lieut. Governor
Gore.

I have the honor to be with great esteem and respect
Sir

Your very obedient

and most Humble Servant

THOMAS TALBOT.
To

James Brock Esq.

Secretary &c. &c. &c.



Draft of letter from Col. Talbot to Maj. Gen'l Brock, March 1812.
Private

Dear Sir.

I have this morning received a letter from the Surveyor Genl. of
which the enclosed is a copy, which places me in a most humiliating
pnd contemptablei light after having acted solely by invitation of the
existing Governt. and a breach of faith on my part to the poor people
that I have induced to settle on the Crown lands would make the remain-
der of my life unhappy perhaps no difficulty may arise, but the anxiety
of mind, that Mr. Eidout's letter has occasioned, emboldens me to
address you personally, being persuaded that your feelings, as a man
of honour, will induce you to pardon my intrusion and that I will meet
with every necessary support from you, should the matter be agitated
in Council I think my dear Genl. that I need not dwell upon the
awkward view in which I should be seen by this odious public, were T
to be obstructed in the plans that I pursued, under the entire approba-
tion of Lt. Governor Gore for rendering this District populous and
valuable, and I can with equal truth assure you, that to accomplish it
has already led me into much extraordinary expense, without the slight-
est profit (further than what I esteem the greatest) the advancement of
these wilderness's to a state of civilization. I have stated officially to
Capn. Brock the particulars attending the foregoing, in order that
should it be deemed advisable to have the matter before Council, that
I might take the liberty of entreating, as a particular favour, that you
would give yrself the trouble of, being present on that occasion, as I
am satisfied that your explanation and support would obviate any diffi-
culties that might be introduced to check my operations were it a pri-
vate Emolument I would be the last person to solicit your influence or



136 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

interference, but my exertions & perseverance to promote the welfare of
this infant colony are the only sources of gratification that I look for
-and when it is considered that the Crown Lands will be prodigiously
benefited by having good & populous roads passing thro' them I am
inclined to feel confident that no difficulties will occur, especially as the
oqual quantity of land that I have reornmended appropriated for the
reserves that would have fallen on Talbot Eoads thro' Southwold should
be placed in the Township of Deerham which is so situated as not to
interfere with the convenience of Koads of communication thro' this
part of the Province however to acquire a more perfect knowledge
of the facta I will humbly request that you will have a conference with
the Surveyor Genl. who can show to your satisfaction on the plan of the
Province the propriety of my scheme should nothing have been brought
into Council relative to this subject before this reaches you, I humbly
apprehend that there is not any occasion for it.



Captain J. B. Glegg, A.D.C., 1 to Talbot.
Private.

My Dear Sir. York 12th March 1812.

I was favored with your letter a few days ago, and availed myself
of the first opportunity that Mr. Burwell gave me, for presenting him
to the General, who has in consequence of your introduction afforded
him every facility in the accomplishment of his business Agreeably
to your request, I send you a few of the new supplementary Militia
Bills, which came from the Press this morning, a circular letter will
be addressed immediately to Officers commanding Corps calling upon
them, to explain distinctly to their officers, and men, its different pro-
visions The General received a letter from Xicholls this morning,
written I believe from the head of the Lake, and he reports that in
consequence of efforts made by Wilcocks Mallory 2 and others to create

1 Captain Glegg was General Brock's aide-de-camp. He lived to the age
of 87, dying in 1861. He was successively Major and Lieutenant Colonel of
the 43d Regiment in which he served for 39 years.

'Joseph Wilcocks, an ex-United Irishman, editor and publisher of the
Upper Canada Guardian, " practically the first real organ of public opinion
in Upper Canada," M.P.P. for the East Riding of York, leader of the -Oppo-
sition. He fought under Brock at Queenston Heights, but afterwards went
over to the enemy, and was killed in action at Fort Erie in August, 1814.
(See page 111, Gore to Talbot, "Joe's Party"). Benajah Mallory, M.P.P. for
Norfolk, Oxford and Middlesex (from 1804), born in the United States, went
over to the enemy during the War.



[COYNE] .THE TALBOT PAPERS 137

apprehensions respecting the intended operation of the Militia Bill,
the young men of the country appear much alarmed, and emigration
is already in their contemplation This must surely either be false
alarm or intended merely as an electioneering trick by those notorious
Characters The General's head is at present too much occupied with
preparing the required official report of his Parliamentary proceedings
to think seriously of anything else.

In a few days I'abrege d'un Code d'instruction Militaire will be
thought of, as applicable to the Provincial Militia, the moment it is
completed you shall hear again from me The last mail from below
brought us His Excellency's Speech to the Houses of Assembly, which
like all other compositions of that description, contains nothing but
what we have all of us heard before 'l fear Sir George J will not be
so fortunate in carrying his' measures as his family expect, the Can-
adians are not partial to innovations of any kind, they are ^stubborn
dogs, and are only to be moved by la force majeure The Glengarry
Levy seems to engross the whole of their attention, and is now com-
menced in good earnest. Colonel Baynes the Adjt. Genl. is to be the
Colonel and to ensure its success in the Holy wars, a Priest 2 is already
appointed As they look to our acres, as inducements for enlistments,
the patronage of two Companies is given to Genl. Brock, who has
offered the commissions to some of his young friends , Instructions
are received for putting all the Forts and defences in this Province
in the best order Captain Vigoureux is to have charge of thie pro-
jected works from York to Fort Erie, and Assistant Engineers arje
already named for each Post Captain Dixon is gone to Amherstburg
to superintend the works at that Port and St. Joseph's In a few
weeks we shall commence our grand plan of fortification for this Point,
and the Marine Department will not be idle Mr. Fish being just
returned from Albany with a Master Builder and party of Shipwrights
we are promised one of the finest schooners that has ever appeared on
this Lake. I send you a Montreal paper which contains a \^ell written
reply or rather commentary on the flaming speech of Govr. Gerry. It
is esteemed by our Peripatetic Philosophers a production of considerable
merit I rather think it was brought very lately from the States by
one of Sir George's family, and it is not improbable but it came from
some person near our Minister.



1 Sir George Prevost, Governor-General.

2 Reverend Alexander Macdonell, afterwards Roman Catholic Bishop of
Regiopolis (Kingston), with jurisdiction extending over Upper Canada, and
a member of the Legislative Council.



138 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

The very communicative temper of our friend Nicholls, will, there
is no doubt ere this arrives, have put you, in full possession of the eclat
that his name or rather his imprisonment has created The Burdett
business is a mere farce when compared to it, badinage apart, he has
been most infamously treated, and I sincerely hope redress may be
obtained for him. He may with truth exclaim in the words of
the Celebrated Lord Chatham (affair of AVilkes in 1770) " that an
outrage has been committed which struck at everything dear and sacred
to the Liberties of Englishmen"- I can make every allowance for
his indignant feelings, tho' I sincerely regret his having made such a
personal attack upon Goff and Rogers the day before he left York, as
it has produced an address, which subjects his lest friend to trouble,
which ought to have been avoided.

The General enters warmly into his hard case, and was not to be
dictated to by such Gentry, nor was he to be humbugged by the repre-
sentation of the attack having taken place in the " Speaker's appart-
ments"- He was well aware that it happened at Jordan's and
declined interfering in the squabbles of a Tavern I think it is
probable we shall pay you an early visit, allow me in the meantime to
make an unconditional offer of my services Mr. Burwell will be the
Bearer of a few cuttings of our best gooseberry trees, tho' I fear from
Mr. Hunter's 1 report that the season is not favorable to them, he says
a month hence some good might be expected from them The General
and Mr. Secretary Brock desire to be kindly remembered.

Believe me My Dr. Sir,

Most faithfully yrs.

J. B. GLEGG.

P.S. The Xicholl cause 2 has given a terrible shock to your Learned
Friend, 3 who I understand declares, he has done more harm by dis-
cussing the question than he can do good, if he lives 100 years ! ! !

1 The well-known Jeffrey Hunter, Talbot's confidential servant.

2 Colonel Nlchol, arrested by order of the House of Assembly, was car-
ried off from his home in the Long Point District to gaol at York. He was
released by order of Chief Justice Scott, against whom a resolution of cen-
sure was, in consequence, passed by the House, and the Prince Regent was
addressed with a formal request for his removal. Nichol brought actions
for damages against the Speaker and Sergeant-at-Arms. The grounds for
his arrest were words spoken by him at Jordan's well-known hotel on King
Street, with reference to Gough and Rogers, members like himself of the
House of Assembly.

Probably Chief Justice Scott.



LCOYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 139

Lieut. Col. Nicholl to Col. Talbot.
My Dear Colonel.

Ostrander one of the Davis party has just Called and paid the
fees I have told him that he must positively go to you before he
takes up his lot He will deliver you this letter which encloses
extracts of my letters to the Adjnt General & to Captn Glegg I have
exhibited seven charges against Hapalje x One of which for asserting
and persisting in it that I had said no American could be a loyal sub-
ject Another for attempting to call out his Company after he had
been informed that he was no longer to Command it in direct and open
defiance of his Commanding Officer Another for propagating a story
that I had been the cause of turning him & Anderson out of the Mil-
itia You know how foul a lie that is and another for telling me a
downright falsehood.

I shall by next Opportunity send you a correct copy of the
Charges Mr Joe Eyerson 2 is a sly old Fox but I have now taken
the right method to unkennel him. I am determined to ferret him
out And that the exposure of this band of back biters and Slanderers
shall be complete. .

I send you the last papers 1 received I expect Steel back this
evening and if an opportunity offers afterwards - - I shall send you
all the news

God bless you My Dear Colonel believe me very faithfully,

Yours,

EOBT. NICHOLL.

/

N.B. The Henry 3 mentioned in the paper is the Irish Renegade



1 Captain Abraham A. Rapelje, born on Long Island, 1776, died in 1841.
He lived at Port Dover until after the war, when he removed to the neigh-
bourhood of Vittoria. He raised a company, and served during the war.
He succeeded Colonel John Bostwick as Sheriff of London District.

2 Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Ryerson, first Sheriff and Treasurer of the
old London District, father of the celebrated Reverend Doctor Egerton Ry%r-
son, Chief Superintendent of Education for Upper Canada and afterwards
Ontario. Five of Colonel Ryerson's six sons entered the ministry, and all
were more or less distinguished.

'John Henry, employed in 1808, and 1809, by Sir James Craig, Governor-
General, to ascertain the state of feeling in the Northern States. His letters
written in the capacity of commissioner or reporter were of no great im-
portance in themselves. He was desirous of obtaining office that of Judge
in Upper Canada in 1808, that of Judge Advocate in Lower Canada in 1811.
Failing in his attempts, he sold the correspondence to President Madison in
the winter of 1811-12. It was laid before Congress and used to inflame
the feeling against Great Britain. (See Kingsford, Vol. VIII, pp. 66-69.)



14O ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

that McGillivray & the Furr Gentry in Montreal wanted to thrust upon
us here as a Judge I have no doubt the correspondence is genuine-
hut I am not disposed to think that either the Govt or Sir James l can
be fairly blamed.

R. N.



(The following extracts were enclosed in Colonel Nicholl's letter to

Colonel Talbot.)

Extract from a letter of Lt, Col. Nichol to the Adjnt General.

While however I am using my utmost exertions and discretion to
carry into full effect the intentions of his Honor Major General Brock
I feel that I shall require the Countenance and support of the Execu-
tive Government to enable me to Check those habits of insubordination
which .1 am sorry to say have been but too prevalent in this part of
the Province -

I do not mean to attach the smallest blame to the men on the
Contrary they are exceedingly well disposed but some of the Ancient
Officers have conducted themselves in such a Manner as to render it
imperative on me to exhibit Charges against them which are enclosed
and which will I trust appear to His Honor Major General Brock of
sufficient consequence to induce him to order a Court of Enquiry to
investigate the conduct of Lt. Colonel Ryerson Captn Rapalje and
myself.

It is I assure you Sir with the greatest reluctance that I trouble
the Government on this occasion but the circumstances are such as to
leave one Xo Option His Honor Major General Brock having been
pleased to Confer on me an offer of high trust and responsibility
requiring both Prudent Zeal and sound discretion in the exercise of
it and great integrity of character and Conduct I felt I should be
wanting both in duty to the Government and respect for myself
Should I puffer my authority to be invaded and 1 my Character to be;
aspersed without a promt endeavour on my part to vindicate and defend
both.

Whenever it shall please His Honor to think that my remaining
in my present situation will be prejudicial to the publick interests I
shall obey without a murmur his order to retire from it but while I
retain an Office of such high trust and responsibility T am determined
to perform without Shrinking and to the best of my ability all the
duties which are attached to it so that when I yield up my Command

1 Sir James Craig, Governor-General.



[COYNB] THE TALBOT PAPERS 141

to a Successor I may deliver over to him a well regulated Regiment
and not an. Unruly Mob, &c., &c., &c.

R. N.
Extract to Captn. Glegg.

It is my wish that the General may perfectly understand the Motives
which have induced me to prefer these charges and I beg leave to
assure him through you that they are entirely of a publick Nature.
Publick considerations alone have been my motives for I feel that while
these reports circulated by Rapelje & Ryerson are circulated uncon-
tradicted they will be believed and consequently will render it impossible
for me to be of the smallest service to the Government or Country as
the head of the Second Regiment of Norfolk Militia.

It is a well known fact that almost ever since the first Establish-
ment of a Militia in this Country it has been little better than a legal-
ised Mob the Officers without respectability without intelligence and
without Authority and the men without any idea of Subordination
Now S'r T am desirous of putting an end to such a state of thing?
in my part of the Country My wish is to Command a Ecglmcnt and
not to be the leader of a Mob. To Enable me to reform abuses and to
bring both officers and Men into those habits of regularity and sub-
ordination so necessary in all Military Service I shall have occasion
for all the Popularity and Influence over Publick Opinion that I pos-
sess and had I ten times more it would not be too much and there-
fore I do conceive it to be my bounden duty to resist and punish on
the threshold every attempt of my immediate Officers to weaken or
destroy these You know well Sir that in a Militia Composed as
ours is of Independent Yeomen it would be both impolitic and useless
to attempt to introduce the strict discipline of the line they must in
a great Measure be goverened by Opinion Just and Firm Conduct
with a Conciliatory Disposition on the part of their Commanding Officer
will do much and this was the line of conduct I had marked out for
myself but if before the Regiment is organised which is composed
almost entirely of Native Americans and before I have assumed any
command the Officers appointed to serve under me Circulate such
reports and make such assertions And if these reports and asser-
tions are not immediately investigated and proved to be unfounded
I feel that I cannot with justice to the Government and respect for
myself remain in the Command "

I have no hesitation in denying most unequivocally the truth of
all and every one of the reports circulated and my only wish is to have
a publicJc opportunity of vindicating my Character from such infamous
and foul aspersions.



142 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Henry Bostwick 1 to Robert Nichol.

2 Copies.
gj r (Printed Circular.)

Having heard that it is currently reported, that you have made
use of the following expression in my presence, that is " That no
American can be a Loyal Subject." And conceiving that the report is
circulated for the purpose of influencing the Minds of the Electors in
this Riding at the approaching Election to your prejudice I think it
but justice to you, positively and unequivocally to declare, that I never
heard you express yourself to that effect; nor did I ever hear any
language made use of by you, which could possibly bear that con-
struction, or anything like it; And I may further add, that I have
frequently heard you deprecate every system of exclusion as it respects
Official Situations in this Province, and your conviction that it would
be sound Policy in the Government to permit Emigrants from the
United States to participate in the different Offices of Honor and Em-
olument in this Province, as it would, in your opinion, effectually tend
to rivet their Attachment to this Government, and dispel any ill-
grounded jealousies You are at liberty to give what publicity you
may think proper to this letter.

I am, Sir,

your obedient Servant,

H. BOSTWICK.

TVoodhouse, 31st March 1812.
To

R. Nichol, Esq.



Captain James Brock to Talbot.
Dear Sir, York 4. April 1812.

Mr. Bird dreading an approaching storm is anxious to be gone,
I have therefore only just time to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter
forwarded by him, and which I immediately submitted to the President,
who desires me to inform you that he will take the first opportunity to
lay it before the Executive Council I had hoped Mr. Bird would



1 Lieutenant Colonel Henry Bostwick of the Oxford Militia served dur-
ing the War. His brother, Captain (afterward Lieutenant Colonel, and
Sheriff) John Bostwick, was the first settler at Port Stanley. The latter
married Mary, eldest daughter of Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Ryerson. Col-
onel Bostwick died in 1816.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 143

have waited a few hours as I had sent to the Surveyor General to enable
me to give you every information on the subject, but I must defer it to
another opportunity.

We have nothing new in politics but what you will see in the news-
papers I herewith send you. Mr. Henry was a particular acquaintance
of mine and the last person I would have suspected of such a villainous
act but alas poor human nature. !

The General desires to be particularly remembered and believe me

[torn.]
Colonel Talbot.



Prideaux Selby x to Talbot.
My Dear Sir York 4th April 1812.

In answer to yours of the 22d. March received this morning I can
only say there was a further sum appropriated by the Legislature for
the purchase of Hemp amounting to 1000 and that your only way of
obtaining a share of it is by application to the President stating the
sum wanted and I would recommend to you to send him at the same
lime a statement of your Hemp acct. & praying his directions how to
dispose of what you have in store.

Mills, I understand, has the Contract for the Govt. Vessels & I
think it would be right for you to write him again, if you haye an
opportunity of doing so before you write to the General.

It is with great pleasure I inform you of the safe arrival of the
Governor, Mrs. Gore & the Major/ they had a short passage of 26 days
to Torbay, they did not however land there but proceeded to the Downs
where they landed on the 14th Deer. Mrs. Gore bore the passage
remarkably well, but in going to Town she caught cold & brougnt on
her nervous fever which kept her at the hotel in Jermyn Street 4 days
they then went to a House Xo. 25 Upper Grosvenor Street which the
Govr. has taken ready furnished & they are mightily pleased with the
situation which looks into Hyde Park. His Excelly's Letter to me was
very short, but he promises to write again by the next Packet.

We are making fortifications at all the Posts and building armed
ships on both the Lakes as if War was expected; but my opinion is
that all Jonathan's blustering will end in nothing of that sort.



1 Hon. Prideaux Selby, Receiver General, and member of the Executive
Council, died at York in April, 1813, shortly after its capture by the U. S.
troops.

2 Major "Wm. Halton, Gore's secretary and aide-de-camp.



144 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

You will see by the Papers that Sir Jas. Craig employed (that
eame Mr. Henry who was recommended to the Govr. as a Judge in the
place of Thorpe) as a confidential agent in the States; the Treachery
of the fellow fully justifies Governor Gore's opinion of him. He has
made public everything that was entrusted to him & he gives as a reason
for it that he was disappointed in his reward. Mr. Maddison however
lias taken care to send Henry off to France before he laid his Com-
munication before Congress, afraid most probably of his being too closely
sifted by some of the members.

I am Dear Sr. with great sincerity

Most faithfully Yours

P. SELBY.
Miss Selby desires her compliments.

Note John McDonell * & Dr. Baldwin 2 crossed the Ice this morng
to the Point & amused themselves with a Brace of Pistols but no harm
was done some expressions in Court was the cause.

COL. TALBOT.



Surveyor General Eidout to Talbot.

Surveyor Gens. Office

York 9th April 1812.

Since my writing to you on the 3rd instant acknowledging the
Eeceipt of your Letter of the 22nd March, I have received orders from
His Honor the President to report to him respecting the Eoad Sur-
veyed by Mr. Burwell in the course of last year under your direction,
and communicating between Westminster and your road surveyed in
1809.

In performing this Duty, 1 have to my extreme surprize discovered
that Mr. Burwell, instead of running " a line for a Eoad, from the Eoad
through Westminster to join Colonel Talbots Eoad as the Ground may
best suit for that purpose " as ordered by Lieut. Governor Gore, and
agreeably to my instructions to him dated the 8th of June last, has
begun his survey in the limits between Dunwich and Southwold at the
distance of 200 chains or thereabouts in rear of the Eoad, called Talbot
Eoad run by him in 1809, and has run parallel thereto, at the before
mentioned distance, another line for a Eoad nearly through the whole



1 Appointed Attorney General 28th November, 1811, and afterward Lieu-
tenant Colonel and Provincial Aide-de-Camp to General Brock. Killed in
action at Queenston Heights, 13th Oct., 1812, at the age of 27.

1 Dr. William Warren Baldwin, father of Hon. Robert Baldwin.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 145

Township of Southwold, and then running almost due north, has run
another line which he has extended to the Boad heretofore run, through
Westminster, and has laid off a row of Lots on each side of the last
mentioned line, throughout, by which means, there are two roads
through Southwold, parallel to each other, with a row of lots on each

side of both the roads, which Roads are each about Ten miles in length

Whereas, a Eoad of about Five miles in length, would have reached
from the Southern Boundary line of Westminster, to the Talbot Eoad,
and I perceive that this last mentioned Eoad of Five Miles, ha also
been surveyed and lots laid off on each side, till we meet with the Lots
of the former survey in 1809. I perceive also that the road last run
through Southwold, and the lots laid off upon it, break in upon the
Eeserves that were made in consequence of the Eoad and Lots surveyed
in 1809, which Eeserves, having been approved of by Lieut. Governor
Gore, I sent you their numbers and names on the 17 May 1811.

As the Township of Southwold is particularly reserved for schools,
any surveys or locations to be made therein, require, the special inter-
ference of the Council. Had the line of Eoad been continued in the
most strait and direct line from the Eoad in Westminster to the Talbot
Eoad, a distance of about twelve miles, the difficulty would probably
have been less to surmount, but as it now is, I cannot give you the
smallest hopes, that the parallel new Eoad will be confirmed, and hope
you will not place any one upon it.

Not doubting that Mr. Burwell had taken the shortest distance
from the Eoad through Westminster to the Talbot Eoad, for his survey,
or line of communication especially as he told me the distance would
be about Twelve miles, as it appears to be, I did not, when the Eeturn
of survey was made, especially as, from the then sitting Legislature,
the pressure of business was extremely great, examine and compare his
survey & Field Notes.

As soon as the President shall have sat upon the Eeport ordered,
you shall be made acquainted with such orders as may be the result

thereof.

I have the Honor to be

Sir
Your most obedient

& very humble servant

THOS. RIDOTJT,

The Honble. Surveyr. Genl.

Thomas Talbot

Port Talbot.

Sec. II., 1907. 10.



146 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Major General Brock to Talbot.
My Dear Sir, York April 20th 1812.

I enclose for your information the report of Council upon the
several points contained in your letter I regret very much it is not
more satisfactory not an idea existed of any survey having been made
of the land parallel to Talbot Eoad, and no document can be found
authorizing that service you may probably be possessed of a letter
from Governor Gore on the subject and if you can by any means make
it appear that he was privy and sanctioned the measure, I still hope
the. Council may be induced to meet your wishes in every particular I
do not find that settlers actually occupy any of the new road I send
a plan of the country requesting you to insert the name of the indi-
viduals on the respective lots you ; have assigned to them Be assured
everything in my power shall be done to enable you to fulfil your en-
gagements being satisfied that, however premature you may have been,
you acted from the best motives

It is impossible to say how Government will view the embargo, I
imagine they will allow it to operate quietly to the view of the sorry
politicians who gave it birth The Duke of Northumberland writes
to Selby that strong re enforcements are ordered to this country the
public papers mention the same thing but I hear nothing on the sub-
ject officially. Govr. Gore has been actively and successfully employed
in the service of his friends. Claus and Givens hare both an increase
to their salaries, Cartwright 3000 additional acres c., &c. Mrs. Gore
was very ill, Hal ton thought in imminent danger. The Prince Regent
has surprised the world and disgusted his old friends I hope La.
Wellington will not be sacrificed He cannot expect the unbounded
support he was wont to receive from the Marquis. 1

Believe me

Dear Colonel

yrs. faithfully

ISAAC BROCK.



Captain James Brock to Colonel Talbot.

President's Office,
Sir - York, 23 April iSl2.

I have the honor to transmit to you herewith, a Commission,
appointing you Colonel Commanding the First Regiment of Middlesex

1 The Marquis of Wellesley, brother of Wellington.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 147

Militia, together with Commissions for the several Officers of that Corps,
which I request you will have the goodness to forward to them.

I have the honor to be ,

Sir
Your most Obedient

Humble Servant,

JAMES BROCK.
To Colonel Talbot

Commanding the 1st Regt.

of Middlesex Militia
(17 commissions)

(SEAL)

ISAAC BROCK, ESQUIRE.

President, administering the Government of the Province
of Upper Canada, and Major General Commanding His
Majesty's Forces therein, &c., &c., &c.

To Thomas Talbot Esquire GREETING.

Reposing especial Confidence in your Loyalty, Courage
and Good Conduct, I do by these Presents constitute and
appoint you to be Colonel Commanding the First Regiment
of Middlesex Militia during pleasure.

(Royal You are therefore carefully and diligently to discnarge

Arms) the duty of Colonel by exercising, and well disciplining both
the inferior Officers and Men of the said Militia. And 1
do hereby Command them to obey you as their Colonel
And you are to observe and follow all such Orders and
Directions as you shall from time to time receive from me
or any other your Superior Officer, according to Law.

GIVEN" under my Hand and Seal at Arms at
York this Twelfth day of February in the Year of
Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twelve,
and in the Fifty second year of His Majesty's reign.

ISAAC BROCK,

Presidt.

BY His HONOR'S COMMAND,
James Brock
Secy.



148 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

The following letter is copied from the original, belonging to the
Askin collection, now in the Archives at Ottawa. The editor is in-
debted to Mrs. Wilson, wife of the Hon. John Henry Wilson, Senator,
for the copy of this letter, as well as for that of a subsequent one from
Talbot to Major-General Brock, dated 27th July, 1812.

Talbot to Captain James Brock.
Archives: Askin Collection.

Port Talbot 23rd May 1812.
Sir

In compliance with the directions of His Honor The President, I
have the honor to enclose for his investigation copies of such documents
as are in my possession, that can tend to throw light upon the subject
of the Road, which I am sorry to find has occasioned so much trouble
to the Executive Council. It is to be lamented that I did not procure
some written voucher from Lieutenant Governor Gore of his having
sanctioned my operations; but such a precaution never occurred to me
as necessary, particularly as I had not any suspicion of leaving the
Province, besides, I felt quite satisfied that his orders to the Surveyor
General were conclusive. On perusing the papers enclosed, it will be
observed, that I was at an early period apprized by Mr. Burwell, that
some confusion on the subject of His Excellency's orders had taken
place in the Surveyor Generals office, and that I lost not a moment,
in addressing myself to Major Hal ton and the Surveyor General,
requesting that the requisite instructions should be furnished Mr. Bur-
well to enable him to survey and lay out Lots on the Eoad in question
and it may naturally be inferred that had His Excellency Lieut. Govr.
Gore disapproved of my plan and proceedings that he would have
directed his Secretary or the Surveyor General to notify to me his
objections. However it was quite otherwise, as shortly after Major
Halton received my letter of the 1st June 1811. He replied in a
private letter, (which I regret much not having preserved) " that
His Excellency was glad to find that the mistake was rectified in The
Surveyor Generals office and that Mr. Burwell, had received his instruc-
tions agreeably to my wishes," which clearly appe'ars by The Surveyor
Generals instructions to the Depty. Surveyor. I have made a dash
with a pencil under the paragraphs that order Mr. Burwell to follow
my directions in running the line for the Road and for laying out Lots
upon it. My reasons, for directing the Road to be carried on the
northern parallel that is marked in the Plan was in consequence of the
Talbot Road through Southwold being for some distance laid upon wet
marshy ground as described between Lots number 20 and 29 ; in fact



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 149

the miry ground begins on No. 8, which was run during a dry time of
the year and the swamps did not appear so extensive as they are now
found to be. On exploring to the Northward the land was discovered
to be more 'elevated and altogether free of swamps ; I therefore directed
Mr. Burwell to lay the Road where it appears on the Plan. From the
month of June 1811 till April last when I received 1 a letter from the
Surveyor Genl. I had not a doubt but that all my proceedings were
clearly understood and approved of and permit me to add that the
Road having acquired so much publickness that any check the settle-
ment of it might receive would . be attended with fatal affects to the
advancement of this part of the Province, which I can assert has made
more rapid progress in settlement and improvement within the space
of the last two years, than any other portion of Upper Canada.

I have the honor to be with due consideration of respect.
Sir

Your very obedient

and most Humble Servant.

THOMAS TALBOT.
James Brock Esq

Secretary &c. &c. &c.
(Endorsed)

23rd May 1812
Colonel Talbot

To
Mr. Secretary Brock, on the subject of the Talbot Road.



Lieut. Col. Nichol to Major Salmon. 1

Niagara June 28 1812.

12 P.M.
Dear Salmon

We have at last the printed intelligence of the Declaration of War
and are now at work throwing up Batteries to attack Fort Niagara
our fire will commence tomorrow morning early and I hope thai oefore
dinner time we shall give a good account of it Exert yourself there-



1 Major George C Salmon was an excellent officer and frequently men-
tioned in despatches. He and Dr. Thomas Rolph, father of Hon. Dr. John
Rolph, emigrated together from near Bristol, in England, in 1809. (Note by
A. C. Casselman, in his edition of Richardson'g War of 1812).



15O ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

fore to carry into effect the General intentions for your assistance-
May be required on very short notice.

Yours truly

ROB. NICHOL Lt. Col.
Q.M.G.M.

Major Salmon

2nd Norfolk Militia Turn over.

Woodhouse

(Indorsed)

Send this after shewing it to Lt. Colonel Ryerson to Colonel Talbot
by Express & at the same time enclose copys of the General orders
enclosed to you by this opportunity.

Extract from a General order issued June 28th

" Colonel Talbot is appointed to the Command of the Militia in
" the London District and will be pointed in his directions to the Militia
" of Oxford & Middlesex "



Bill for Supplies furnished by Albert Berdan Sr.

Commissary General Dept.

To Albert Berdan Senr. 1

For Provisions furnished the Norfolk Militia between the 4 July
1812 and 16 Inst. Inclusive viz.

Three hundred & fifty two pounds of Flour at four dol-
lars p. Cwt. is 3 10

Fifty two pounds of Pork 7% 1 13 G

Two hundred & Eighty one Ibs Beef 3d 3 10 3

Thirteen Gallons Whiskey at 5s 3 5



Halifax Currency 11 1'



1 Albert Berdan, U.E.L., was during the Revolutionary War sergeant in
the 2nd battalion of New Jersey volunteers. He settled in New Brunswick
on the conclusion of peace, but came west in 1798, settling in the township
of Woodhouse in the county of Norfolk. When the Courts of Quarter Ses-
sions were organized in 1800, Berdan was sworn in as the first constable of
Woodhouse, and was appointed first court crier. The Berdans of Southwold
are of the same family. (See Tasker: The United Empire Loyalist Settle-
ment at Long Point. Ont. Hist. Society Papers and Records, Vol. II, p. 99).



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 181

The following letter is copied from the original, in the Askin
collection, now in the Archives at Ottawa. For the copy the editor is
indebted to Mrs. J. H. Wilson of St. Thomas.

Talbot to Major General Brock.
Archives: Askin Collection.

Oxford Monday 27th July 1812.
My dear General

I arrived at this place this morning from Long Point where I had
been two days, one spent in endeavouring to secure 100 Volunteers from
the Norfolk Militia and I am sorry to inform you that notwithstanding
the apparent readiness manifested by the Flank Companies of those
Battns. on former occasions, that when it was understood that the men
required, were absolutely to proceed to The Eiver Thames, very few
turned out for that service, after much explanation of the expectations
of the Government and the disgrace that would attend their Eegts.
I made out about 60 men, I then ballotted 40 more and ordered the
detachment to march to join Major Chambers x as yesterday morning
When I reached the ground from whence the Detachment was to march.
1 found a large assembly of the Farmers with their women, who upon
my approach addressed me, by declaring that their men should not
march, upon this I enquired, if there were any Magistrates present,
the answer was, several, I required one to come forward, on which Mr.
Bemer 2 appeared, I asked him, how he as a Magistrate could permit
such proceedings, he offered no excuse, but said that he conceived the
measure of withdrawing any of the Militia from Long point was highly
improper. I then ordered the party to march, when about a half
obeyed and after proceeding a short distance the men fell out, all but
about 20, who continued their march, and even those few appeared
unwilling, I therefore thought it most prudent to allow those few to
return as I could not flatter myself with any material benefit that could
result -from their weak and uncertain assistance. Major Salmon who
was present, I directed to proceed to Head Quarters and state the cir-

1 He had been directed by General Brock to proceed with 50 men of the
41st Regiment to the Moravian town, where 200 militia were directed to join
him, for the purpose of checking the inroads of the enemy along the Thames.
Major Salmon was to command these militiamen. (See Cruikshank, Doc.
Hist., Part 3, page 138.)

2 John Beemer, born in New Jersey, 1762, came to Upper Canada, 1787,
settled in the township of Townsend, Norfolk county, in 1797; justice of the
peace, 1800; ensign in 2nd Norfolk Militia, 1812; captured by the U. S. troops
in McArthur's raid; died, 1848. (See Owen: Pioneer Sketches of the Long Point
Settlement.)



182 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

cumstances as they occurred to you. Major Chambers is at this place
with the Flank Companies of the Oxford Militia, Lt. Col. Bostwick
reports that they have generally volunteered, there are about 60 Rank
& file, but I confess I am not disposed to place much reliance on their
offers or services. Not an Indian as yet and Major Chambers informs
me that Norton gave him to understand that 40 or 50 men would be
the utmost that he could promise himself from the Grand River Tribes.
Middlesex might furnish about 60 men but from Mr. Bostwicks inform-
ation, that those of Delaware and Westminster had sent a petition to
Genl. Hull for protection, you will be enabled to value the support that
may be expected from that part of Middlesex. In fact, my dear Genl.
the prospect is dismal, unless there is some other resource that I am
not acquainted with. I have advised Major Chambers not to advance
his small and valuable party until he received orders from you or ob-
tained such strength as might justify such movement. I have thoughts
of going to Port Talbot for a day to oversee my affairs there. I'm
most anxious to know your determination if you should be forced to
send to Genl. Hull do let me know as those in promise of land on per-
forming their settlement duties should be included in such condition
as may l>e entered into and something relative to myself. Mr. Crooks
who is begging to be off requires my concluding by assuring you my
dear Genl. that I am ever with truth

Most faithfully Yrs.

THOMAS TALBOT.
To

His Honor

Major Genl. Brock,
&c, &c, &c,
(Endorsed)

Oxford 27 July 1812

Col. Talbot
Reed. 29. 4 P.M.
Copy to Genl. Brock

No. 2. 29 July 7 P.M.



Lieut. Col. Macdonell P.A.D.C. to Talbot. Militia General Order.

Head Quarters
M. G. 0. Fort George 26th August 1812.

Major General Brock has ever felt anxious to study the comfort
and convenience of the Militia, but the conduct of the detachments



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 183

which lately accompanied him to Detroit has if possible increased his
anxiety on this subject the present cessation of hostilities enables him
to dispense with the services of a large proportion of them for a short
period.

Officers commanding will grant permission to any number of the
Flank Companies now doing duty not exceeding four fifths of the whole,
to return to their homes; but the men will be particularly directed to
hold themselves in readiness to return at a moment's warning.

The Major General is pleased to direct that a general inspection
of the Regiments in the Home Niagara & London Districts be imme-
diately made.

Major General Sheaffe will inspect those in the Home District
(except Colonel Beasley's Regiment).

Major General Shaw will inspect the 1st 2d 3d 4th & 5th itegi-
ments & the 2d Regiment of York Militia, and

Colonel Talbot the different Regiments in the London District.

At these Inspections every man liable to serve is expected to be
present, and such as are absent are to be accounted for under the fol-
lowing heads

It Age and infirmity

2f\ Quakers, Menonists & Tunkers.

3d Absentees, distinguishing for what cause.

It is expected that every individual residing within the limits of
a Regiment shall be accounted for.

A- Regular roll of each company will be prepared by the Respective
Captains and countersigned by the officers commanding the Regiment.

The greater the improvement made by the Militia in acquiring a
knowledge of Military discipline, the less necessary will it be to call
them from their homes. The Major General therefore is pleased to
direct that officers commanding will call out the men of their respec-
tive regiments or companies for the purpose of drill once in every week.

Officers commanding corps are directed to call upon the Militia
men of their respective Regiments, battalions and companies to take
and subscribe the oath of allegiance, as directed in the last Militia
Act previous to tho day of inspection and they will furnish the inspect-
ing officer with a list of the names of such persons who may have refused
to take & subscribe the same if anv such there be.
By order of the Major General.

J. MACDONNELL Lt, Col.

Militia P.A.D.C.

To Colonel Talbot

Commanding London District.



1B4 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Bill for Supplies Furnished by Captain White.

Captn. White has furnished provisions & liquor to a party of
Indians under the Command of Capt, Tuck on their way to Niagara
to amount of Ten Pounds Nineteen Shillings

31st August 1812.

H. BOSTWICK.
Burford 31st August 1812.
Capt. White furnished

342 Ib Beef at 150/ 710 7

From Peter Tecple.

368 Ibs of Beef at 5d.
14th August 1812, for Indians,
from Wm. McCartney
1048 Ibs of Beef at 5d.
109 Ibs of Pork at I/
Sale for 18/

Provisions for a party of Capt Springers Company Middlesex 16/
Ib. Beef.

Militia 182 Ibs Beef at 5d. one half B. Salt 16/
Middlesex y 2 do do 16/

Oxford 354 Ibs Beef 5d.
do 460 Ibs Beef
do 268 Ibs Beef
do 227 Ibs Beef

McCartney about 90 $ beef,
do 641/2 Ibs Mutton
do 232 Ibs Beef
do 99 Ibs Beef
do 99 Ibs Flour
do 287 Ibs Beef
do 30 Ibs Flour
do 48 Ibs Mutton

at the rate of 7d Ib.



Major General Brock to Talbot.
My dear Col. Monday 7 Sept [1812].

I returned yesterday from Kingston At twelve tomorrow hostilities
are to recommence. Madison must be mad or so deeply involved in



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS I 8e

Bonaparte politics that he cannot recede 1 have a letter from Isaac
Todd from N. York dated the 21st Augt. a determination to uumpa
government to make peace prevails

The enemy is most active in his line opposite. An attack with
his artillery will probably commence in a few days He is strong in
numbers The prodigious quantity of ammunition and provisions
which the cessation of hostilities has enabled him to collect gives him
an advantage he would not easily have acquired otherwise. I wish at
this moment to assemble as strong a force as possible Lieut. Bird
encourages me to expect 2 or 300 men from the district under your
command!. Do what you are able in that respect sending to let me
know the number that are likely to volunteer their services that arrange-
ments may be made for their reception.

Yrs always

ISAAC BROCK.

You cannot send a better Capt. than Bothwick. 1 I cannot think
a force at Longpoint at this time is at all necessary.

I. B.
We have arms in tolerable plenty.



Lieut. Col. Henry Bostwick to Talbot,

Oxford 10th Sept. 1812.
Sir

Mr. Bird arrived at this place last evening from Fort George, and
informs me that he is taking instructions to you to send to Niagara
: all the Militia of the District without delay should that be the case,
I should be glad to receive the order from you as soon as possible and
shall hold myself in readiness and shall prepare the Militia of this
Regt. also to be in readiness in the meantime.

I sent Major Tousley on with a detachment of Militia day before
yesterday. I understand that he was joined in Burford by more than
I had reason to expect, so that his force will consist of about 100 men.
I shall send Mr. Brigham on tomorrow with his Rifle men his company
will consist of about 30 men. I think most of them will be furnished
with good Rifles.



1 Captain (afterwards Lieutenant Colonel) John Bostwick of Port Stanley.



186 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

I have not heard whether the Norfolk Militia have moved towards

Niagara or not I sent but one Captn and 3 subalterns with

Major Tousley, my directions to him were to take 80 Rank & file. I
am however very glad to hear that it is more.

I am Sir

Your most obt. St.

H. BOSTWICK Lt. Col.

Oxford.
To

The Honble T. Talbot
&c. &c. &c.

Port Talbot

(Endorsed)
To

The Honble Thos. Talbot
Col. Commanding

London District.



Captain Daniel Springer 1 to Talbot.

Dear Sir Delaware 10th Sept 1812.

Agreeable to your request I delivered your letter to Col. Nichol at
detroit, and he was much engaged with publick business, and did not
write, but told me that he would set off for niagara on the Eighth
Instant. I found persons in detroit of respectability who was willing
to give their depositions respecting Andrew Westbrook, while at deitroit
the purport is that, he requested fifty men from General Hull to return
back to Delaware and take his property, and that Simon Z. Watson
a? to be one of the number. General Hull Doubted his integrity,
nskofl the opinion of those persons, as they were acquainted with him,
what kind of a man he was wether or not he Could be intrustted and,
he was in detroit at the time of .the Capatalation, and as there where,
no Magistrates appointed to take depositions I Could not get them, bait
Col. Xichol promised me that they. should be appointed, and the depo-
sitions would be taken and would get them forwarded on to niagara.

1 Of Delaware. Taken prisoner 31st January. 1814, at Delaware and sent
to General Harrison's headquarters. After his release he took part in the
closing scenes of the war.



137



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS

the day before i returned to delaware, Mr. B. Bruster Brigham l had
assembled my Company of Militia and told the men, that he had orders
from Lieut. Col. Bostwick, to take a Certain number from among them
to fill up his rifel Company, and if not that he should select a Certain
number of musket men. I asked him by what authority he interiaired
with my Company he made answer by orders of Lieut. Col. Bostwick.
I tould him if such measures were legal that, I was not acquainted
with it, and that I would acquent your Honor with the proceeding,
and yesterday he marched them off and likewise told the men if thtey
did not go that Col. Bostwick would fetch them with a file of men,
what number he tuck I cannot say Mr. Dingman Can perhaps give
you some account as he saw the men.


I have the Honor to

be your Honors most

obedient and Very
Humble Servt.

DANIEL SPRINGER.
Colonel Talbot.



Chief Justice Scott to Talbot.

My Dear Sir, Yorke Se P r - 13 - 1813 -

I return you my sincere thanks for your letter of the 29th of
August. The loss which you have sustained I most truly regret. It
is certainly no reasonable consolation, yet we all take some degree of
comfort to ourselves, when we find that we are not the only sufferers,
and that others share with us in our misfortunes. The rains here
have done great mischief here, where we had no Enemy but the season
to contend with.

I consider myself equally interested with you in the return of our
worthy friend the Govr. I have not heard from him since I wrote
to you last, he was then in great hopes of retiirning soon amongst
us, but alas in this world what are hopes Mrs. Gore was much
better they both have found every attention from their Friends but
they both wish to return. The Prince Eegent in the most familiar
manner acknowledged the Govr. as an old acquaintance & put him in
mind of their having served together. I had yesterday a Letter from
Genl. Brock who seems to expect that matters would soon be brought

1 Captain Bela Brewster Brigham of Delaware, captured 31st January.
1814, along with Captain Springer.



158 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

to a crisis at Niagara. Since the beginning of the troubles (for so I
must call them) the Genl. never was so strong we expect a few, &
but a few, Kegular Troops to this place under it is sd. Col. Short
Majr. Fuller has been perfectly deranged Allen your old acquaint-
ance, as Major in the Militia, has in effect the command of the Gar-
rison and has acted with much judgt & discretion. There is an ugly
report of a Frigat of our La Gueriere having been taken by the Consti-
tution an American Ship Our vessel it is said was so much battered,
that she sunk the moment she was taken but this is American News
conveyed to Niagara it may be a lie but I am somewhat apprehensive
of its truth.

They, the Americans, have taken off the roof from their fort at
Niagara and have erected a Battery on the Stone-work which remains
Numbers are leaving the American Camp but whether from a faint
or by Desertion we do not know it is said they are sickely &c. &c.
but we ought not to be too credulous. An American vessel was taken
on the Lake near us, but alas our men of war were not good calculators,
for upon examination it was found that at the time of the capture.
Hostilities had ceased, & were not to be renewed till two days after.
It is strongly reported that part of the Militia at Albany have refused
to march out of their state & that blood has beon spilt on the occa-
sion. The repeal of the orders in Council by G. Bn. ought to satisfy
the American Government but the leaders will not be satisfied but it
is said that the Federalists exclaim much against their Government for,
under such circum stances continuing the war & that this was the cry
at Albany Imt enough and more than enough. Should a defeat on
the part of our Enemies take place at Niagara we have much to hope
if otherwise much to Fear Farewell.

Yours most truly

THOS SCOTT.
Col. Talbot.



Lieut. Col. Macdonell P.A.D.C. to Talbot.

Fort George 12th September 1812.
My Dear Colonel

In obedience to the commands of His Honor the President I have
to announce to you his desire that you will be pleased to recal the
Companies of Militia, which you may have detached in consequence of
his recent orders to that effect, and it is further his intention to send
back the Flank Companies of 'Oxford, lately arrived in this vicinity,



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 1S9

the intelligence which he has received rendering it unnecessary in his
opinion to add to the number of the Militia before called out for the
defence of this frontier.

The General visited Fort Erie yesterday and returned to-day,
having obtained from a source on which he relies the following
information.

That the force on the opposite side between the rock and Fort
Niagara amounted to about 3,000 that they were much in fear of an
attack from us the Militia in a bad state of health and much dis-
contented five of the eastern States and one southern had refused to
support the general government that there remained no doubt on the
minds of the Federalists that Mr. M. would be ousted, and peace
restored it was the opinion of the Feds opposite that we ought ncrt to
make any attack Genl. Dearborn had only 1,500 men at Albany
De W. Clinton would be brought in as President and that a second
attempt to raise funds by an issue of paper having failed the troops
were not paid, and were becoming clamorous, &c. &c. &c. I believe
that I have not omitted anything that I was charged to communicate
to you from H. H. the President I may now, therefore, add a word
or two from myself and first let me congratulate you on not having
been torn or driven away from your household Gods (and Goddesses,
if any you have) and I assure you that I feel a friendly and anxious
desire that ye should all remain quietly under the same roof, undis-
turbed by Hulls or Watsons or .any of their wicked works

The General wished to send some English newspapers he brought
up from Kingston a few days ago but they cannot be found the
account of your brother's J capture of the Eivoli was in one of them ;
but that you must have seen long since, therefore there is the less to
regret in their not being forthcoming. 2



Lieut. Col. Macdonell 3 P.A.D.C. to Talbot.

Head Quarters
Dear Colonel. Fo-t George 12th Octr. 1812.

From the movements of the enemy on the opposite shore, and
other circumstances the General is strongly induced to believe he will



1 Sir John Talbot.

5 The rest is wanting.

'Probably the last letter he wrote. He was mortally wounded on the
following day, in the battle of Queenston Heights, and died twenty hours
later.



160 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

very soon be attacked on this line. He has therefore commanded me
to say that he wishes you to send him, without delay, a remlorcement
of two hundred men, from the Militia under your command they will
in the first instance march to Fort Erie, and as it is desirable that
they should arrive without loss of time, the General wishes that as
many of them as you can procure boats for should come by water,
should you think that by so doing they will sooner arrive. As it may
be found difficult to procure comforts for the number of troops that
will probably be assembled the General wishes you to impress strongly
upon the men the necessity of bringing with them a blanket and such
articles of clothing as the season requires at the same time he wishes
it to be understood that Jie tninks their services will only be required
for a short period. Volunteers will of course be preferred & such as
have or can procure private arms, the General trusts will bring them
with them.

On the night of the 9th instant the enemy succeeded in boarding
and carrying two Vessels off Fort Erie the Detroit & Caledonia, and
notwithstanding the exertions made to recover them, the former was
burnt by them, &"the other with her cargo secured by them.

By accounts received we learn that Lord Wellington on the 22d.
July near Salamanca, defeated the enemy under Marmont, taking
killing and wounding from 10 to 12,000, & all his artillery. The enemy
was in full retreat & His Lordship in close pursuit we have not the
official letter but there is no doubt of the fact. Sir John B. "Warren
has arrived with part of his fleet, which consists of six sail of the line
& ten frigates. I remain with much respect Dr. Sir very truly yours,

(sgd) J. MACDONELL

P.A.D.C.
Colonel Talbot.

(The address is as follows)



H. M. S.

To Colonel Talbot

Comm'g Militia London District

Port Talbot.
J. Macdonell

P.A.D.C.



(Col. Talbot endorsed the letter with the words) "Rec'd Oct 19th
at 11 o'clock A.M."



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 161

Major General Sheaffe to Colonel Talbot &c.

Fort George 16th Octr. 1812.
D. G. 0.

Two thirds of the whole establishment of the 1st & 2nd Norfolk
1st Oxford and 1st Middlesex Eegt. of Militia officered agreeably to
former regulations are to repair with the greatest possible dispatch to
the following points.

1st Norfolk }

2nd Norfolk } Chl PP awa

1st Oxford )

1 , T-r-n-n [ Queenstown

1st Middlesex J

A Blanket each is recommended to be brought by each man, and
all arms and ammunition in possession are also to be brought.

R. H. SHEAFFE

M. General Coming.
Colonel Talbot

& Officers Commg.
&c. &c. &c.

(Indorsed)
Mem.

Colonel Bostwick will desire that the men required by the fore-
going order shall be marched in by their officers without losing the
time that it would require to wait for orders from Colonel Talbot

II. H. SHEAFFE

M. Genl. Commg.



Capt'n Glegg A.D.C. to Talbot.

Fort George, 19th October 1812.
Dear Sir.

Since writing to you on the 14th and giving verbal instructions to
Lieut. Colonel Bostwick respecting the movements directed to be made
by the different Regiments of Militia under your command, some cir-
cumstances have arisen which induce Major General Sheaffe to make
some changes in the former arrangements. The Enemy having been
foiled in his late attempt upon this line, and an indefinite armistice
having been agreed upon by Major General Sheaffe and Brigdr. General
Smyth which extends only between the Lakes Erie and Ontario or in

Sec. II., 1907. 11.



162 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

other words the extremities of our mutual Posts along this communi-
cation, it is not improbable that he may make some efforts to effect a
landing either above or below Forts Erie and Fort George. Major
General Sheaffe requests you will distribute the proportions of Militia
directed to be immediately called out, consisting of the 1st & 2nd Nor-
folk 1st Oxford and 1st Middlesex Regiments between Long Point
and point Abino making such intermediate arrangements for other
points along that communication, as your superior local knowledge may
suggest.

Major General Sheaffe begs that you will station strong detach-
ments at the following places At or very near Long Point, Dover
Mills, Grand River, Sugar Loaf and a small party distributed from
the latter place to Fort Erie. You will be pleased to make an early
communication of your aggregate effective force, and your distribution
of it, you will be so good at the same time to transmit a statement of
your wants, and means of supplying them. Every effort will be made
to give the most immediate efficiency to the force under your com-
mand, and the Major General recommends the establishment of jour
Head Quarters at the most convenient point, for a quick communication
with this Post.

I have the honor to be
Dear Sir

Yours very faithfully,

J. B. GLEGQ Captn. A.D.C.

P.S. Arrangements have been made this morning for facilitating
your communication by placing a proper proportion of Dragoons between
this Port and Long Point.

J. B. G.

I have not a moment to devote to you on the subject of our late
glorious tho' melancholy proceedings, I will not forget my dear sir the
interest you have ever taken in everything relating to our ever to be
lamented friend.

At a moment of more leisure you shall hear from me on this subject.

J. B. G.
(Addressed on outside)

Service

Colonel Talbot
J. B. G. Commanding

A. D. C. London District



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 163

Major General Sheafte to Talbot.

Fort George 7th Novr. 1812.
My Dear Colonel,

It having unfortunately fallen to my lot to read the letter you
addressed to M. Genl. Brock respecting the locations in Bayham and
Malahide, I caused certain queries relative thereto to be put to the
Surveyor General, which have produced the voluminous statement in-
closed herewith you will be so good as to return it when you have
read it, and noted any extracts you may deem necessary. You cannot
doubt that it will afford me great pleasure if my public duty will per-
mit my favoring your wishes on the subject; at present, I confess that
1 do not fully understand the case.

Your letter from Dover Mills has been received We have few
if any arms to spare if any can be mustered they shall be forwarded
with ammunition there being some Rifles in store, I have authorised
Lt. Bingham to form a Company of Eiflemen.

The Simcoe is just arrived with clothing and bedding the Moira
approaches with other stores for the Militia &c. &c.

Six Companies of the Glengarry levy are expected at Kingston
two come here one to York two of the 49th also come here.

The Simcoe brings a report of a fleet with several regts. being
in the river the Q.M.G. is in the Moira he brings money. C.
Glegg & Mr. Brock are here they go to York to-day B. proceeded by
land to Kingston G. comes back to go by water to join Sir G. P as
Extra. C. Fulton has been sent home with despatches. I have some
intention of going to York, I wait for the coming in of the Moira,
M. Genl. Shaw who acts now only as A.G. will send you further in-
formation. Adieu, my deal Colonel, and believe me

Truly yours,

E. SHEAFFE.
Colonel Talbot

&c. &c. &c.



Major General Sheaffe to Talbot.
My Dear Colonel Ft. George, Nov 25, 1812.

It would give me great pleasure to meet you at York, but I fear
that the enemy will not give me leave. I opened a fire on Fort Niagara
the evening after the termination of the Armistice. It was returned
with spirit, and continued with but little intermission during the day.



1 04 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

The effect of our fire was not what I expected after the experience of
the 13th Oct, though we did them more damage than we suffered our-
selves. I went to the right expecting an attack to follow, the notice
of the rupture coming from them, but all has as yet remained quiet on
our flanks. This battery may have disconcerted their plan, which was
one motive for it.

Paymaster Brock was taken in the Elizabeth, preferring her to the
Review, which arrived at Kingston, escaping the Flotilla that attacked
the Royal George in Kingston Harbour, the Oneida, and six other ves-
sells carrying each thirty-two privates and four sixes. A frigate of
thirty-two guns (keep it to yourself) was nearly ready to be launched
it was said that it would take place on the 17th a rapid fire progress!
I have much more to do than I am able to accomplish. Mr. Ross waits.
Believe me, dear Colonel,

Most truly yours

E. H. SHEAFFE.
Col. Talbot.

Mr. Ross has copies of orders for you.

(From an old copy of the St. Thomas "Evening Journal.")



John Eakins to Talbot.
Dear Col. Talbot Port Talbot Nov. 171812.

I have received from Mrs. Story 57 yd of Shurting & full Cloth
fiannel 10 yd to Chase. 6y 2 to Cook of the full Cloth flannel. Chase
wishes to have more, 6 yd to Richard & Bunker & 5 to Jim veal of the
shurtin flanal. Huntley has Returned and Says that he will do the
^arls. I have Killed the 2 Hogs and the big one Weighed 2 hundred
and 73

Henry Wishes you to Send him a Wool Hat and Vest Pattern &
Cap he is very attentive to the Cattle 1 will .Let out the Rams to-
morrow.

Capt. Wilson has Killed a large Bare and Buck the Bare Weighed
4 Hundred and 2 Pound

I hope to see you home before Long. I Remain your very Humble
Servant

JOHN
To

The Honble Colonel Talbot

Commg. the London District
Dover Mills



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 165

Adjt. Gen. Shaw to Talbot.

Adjutant General's Office

Fort George llth Decemr. 1812.
Sir.

His Honor Major General Sheaffe taking into his consideration
the advanced season of the year and the many domestic calls on the
Militia who are now on the frontiers, is pleased to direct that all those
of your District, with the exception of such as are at Fort Erie, be
permitted to return to their respective homes. As there are no Public
Depots the men will carry with them their arms accoutrements and
ammunition, for the due preservation of which the officers of 'each com-
pany will assemble their Men once in a fortnight in such manner as may
be least inconvenient, for the purpose of their being carefully inspected.
Alarm posts will be assigned for the reassembling the men should there
be occasion, and proper signals established.

I have the honor to be

Sir
Your most obedient Servant

JENEAS SHAW

Adjt. Genl. Mila.
Colonel Talbot

&c, &c. &c.

Port Talbot
(Addressed on the back)

On Service
Colonel Talbot

Commandg the Militia in the District of London
M. S.



Talbot to Maj. Genl. Sheaffe. (Draft letter.)

Dover Mills 12th Deer. 1812.

My dear General.

Mr. Ross arrived here yesterday and delivered me your Letter
dated the Also the copies of the Genl Orders of 9th July, 1st

3d Augt, 18th, 19th & 25th Novr. which I had not before seen. Mr.
Ross further informs me that he did not receive pay for some of the
officers whose services were included in the 'estimate which he took
down to Head Quarters, viz Lt. Col. Burwell 1st Regt. Middlesex, Lt.



166 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Col. Bostwick 1st Regt. Oxford, Major Bowen 1st Regt. Norfolk, Major
Salmon 2nd Eegt. Norfolk and Adjutant Eakins of the 1st Oxford
Regt I must beg leave to explain the reasons and authority by
which those officers were placed on duty trusting that they will be
considered sufficient to enable you to issue an order that they may
receive pay for the time specified in the estimate Lt, Col. Burwell
I ordered on Duty in consequence of receiving information of parties
from Genl. Hulls army having penetrated into the Province to within
a few miles of Port Talbot being myself on duty at Longpoint and
Fort George with Genl. Brock to whom I reported the particulars
Lt. Col. Bostwick was put on duty by a verbal order to me from Major
Genl. Brock on the day of his sailing with the expedition from this
place for Detroit, and the last time I had the pleasure of seeing that
Lamented General he expressed to me his desire that Lt. Col. Bostwick
should be continued on duty Major Salmon was likewise placed on
duty by Major Genl. Brock and was ordered to proceed down the River
Thames under Cap'n Chambers of the 41st and afterwards served in
the expedition agains Detroit. District Major Bowen, from being an
exceedingly good drill officer, was ordered to be stationed at Turkey
point by approbation of Genl. Brock for the purpose of instructing the
quotas of Militia that were assembled at that station, and I can with
great justice assure you, that Major Bowen has been indefatigable in
his attention and exertions to form the Militia for service Adjutant
Eakins was also put on duty by order of Major Genl. Brock should
those deserving officers be refused pay after devoting their time to the
good of the Province much to the prejudice of their private affairs
and 'exposed to considerable expense I am confident it would have a
very unfavorable tendency in lessening the unquestionable loyalty &
ardour at present manifested and destroy all faith and confidence in
the Government for the future.

as there cannot be any apprehension retained of an attack on
this part of the country during the winter season, I will beg leave to
recommend the propriety of allowing the detachments stationed in this
neighborhood to be dismissed, as the men are most wretchedly provided
with clothing, so much so as to render their marching to a distance
almost impossible and their families are suffering the utmost distress,
during their absence, being chiefly new beginners in the woods and
dispersed through a great extent of country.

As far as I can collect from the information of some of our men
that have been Prisoners with the Enemy, I am disposed to hope that
the Enemy have given up the idea of further disturbing the Province



167



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS

during the winter I hope that you will strongly urge Sir George to
strengthen you by every means that he can spare from below so that
we may be prepared to meet the foe in the spring should no accommo-
dation take place between the two Governments previous to that time

but I most ardently pray may be the case, what an neglect and infatu-
ation it has been in our Rulers at home, not having immediately on
receiving the declaration of War expedited a force sufficient for the
defence of these Provinces, such a measure would have effectually sup-
ported the powers vested in Sir John Warren's mission.



Lieut. Col. Nichol to Talbot.

Pec. 12. 1812.
Dear Colonel.

I am so busy that I can not write you, as I could wish I however
enclose you Genl. Smyth's proclamation. I shall write you by the very
next opportunity a very long and I trust a very satisfactory letter.

Believe me dear Coll.

very faithfully yours.

ROBT. NiCHOL.

P.S. I have got the Genl. to pass your estimates Couche should
be hanged.

Addressed

Coll. Talbot

Dover Mills.



Printed fly-sheet.

AT A MEETING OF THE PRINCIPAL INHABITANTS OF THE
TOWN OF YORK AND ITS VICINITY, HELD AT YORK
ON TUESDAY THE 15th DAY OF DECEMBER, 181Z, pur-
suant to PUBLIC NOTICE. THE HONORABLE CHIEF
JUSTICE SCOTT, Chairman, it is RESOLVED,

1st That a select Society be established by annual Subscription
throughout the Province, to be called THE LOYAL AND
PATRIOTIC SOCIETY OF UPPER CANADA, for the fol-
lowing specific purposes:



168 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

1st To afford aid and relief to such Families of the Militia in all
parts of the Province, as shall appear to experience particular
Distress in consequence of the Death or Absence of their Friends
and Relations employed in the Militia Services in Defence of
the Province.

3d To afford like aid and relief to such Militia Men as have been
or shall be Disabled from Labour, by 'Wounds or otherwise, in
course of the Service aforesaid. Provided it shall appear to
the Committee hereafter to be named, that over and above tile
Aid afforded by the Legislature, to some of the cases above men-
tioned, some further Relief is necessary.

3d. To reward Merit, excite Emulation, and commemorate glorious
Exploits, by bestowing Medals or other honorary marks of public
Approbation and Distinction for extraordinary instances of per-
sonal Courage or Fidelity in defence of the Province, by Indi-
viduals, either of His Majesty's Regular or Militia Forces or
Seamen.

2nd. That the Society shall continue during the present War with the
United States of America, and shall be under the special pro-
tection and patronage of His Honor Major General SHEAFFE,
or the Person Administering His Majesty's Government in this
Province, for the time being.

3d. That every Person throughout the Province, whose annual Sub-
scription shall amount to One Pound or upwards, shall be
admitted to the honor of being a Member of the Society, ana
have the privilege of recommending Objects to its charitable
Bounty, and also of Voting at all General Meetings and Deliber-
ations of the Subscribers. And that the Members of His Ma-
jesty's Executive and Legislative Council, Judges of the King's
Bench, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, the Clergymen of
the Established Church, together with every other Person 'wnose
annual Subscription shall amount to Ten Pounds or upwards,
shall be Directors of the Society for the purposes hereinafter
mentioned, and all General and Field Officers of His Majesty's
Regular Forces serving in the Province, are invited to be Hon-
orary Members of the Society.

4th. That the affairs of the Society be Governed and its business
Conducted by the General Board of Directors to assemble
Quarterly, that is, on the first day of the Quarter Sessions, in
the Town of York, which Board shall consist of a President,
Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and any number, not less



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 169

than five of the other Directors, and that the Chief Justice and
the Members of His Majesty's Executive Council for the time
shall be President .and Vice Presidents of the Society, without
the presence of one or more of 'whom such General Board cannot
be held or business transacted.

oth. The General Board of Directors shall, by the Secretary and
Treasurer, make .regular entries of their proceedings, and state-
ments of their Receipts and Disbursements, in Books to be kept
for that purpose, in order 'that the same be occasionally Pub-
lished and submitted to the inspection of the Subscribers. And
to facilitate the objects of the Society, the said Board shall
appoint Committees of their own Members residing in the dif-
ferent Districts, who may apply to the relief of cases of Dis-
tricts arising therein, the whole amount of the Subscriptions
obtained in such Districts, except three per cent on the said
amount, to be appropriated by the Directors towards effecting
the third object of the (Society; and that the said Committee
shall from time to time transmit to the Secretary of the General
Board at York, an account of their proceedings and expenditures,
that unity may be preserved in the Society throughout the Pro-
vince, and .a full Statement of its Transactions, may be prepared
for the satisfaction of all the Subscribers and the Public at
large.

6th. That the respective Sums at first to be Subscribed shall be con-
sidered the Sum to.be paid annually by each Subscriber during
the continuance of the Society, (unless in cases of leaving the
Province or some material alteration in the circumstances of
the Subscriber), and shall for the present year, be paid within
one Month after the Subscription, and in the following years,
at such periods as the General Board of Directors shall appoint,
in order to enable the Board to provide Supplies, best adapted
for Eelief of Distress, on the most advantageous Terms. And
that the Money accruing from such Subscriptions, shall be con-
sidered as constituting the Funds for the purposes of the Society.

?'th. That exclusive of the Annual Subscription, the Society will accept
of Donations of any extent whatsoever from those who may not
choose to become Annual Subscribers or Members of the Society,
and the Names of such Benefactors and the sums they have given,
shall be Published Quarterly in the York " Gazette."

8th. And whereas it is the opinion of this Society, that no personal
Merit whatever in Military Service, can compensate for insub-
ordination and breach of Discipline, it is hereby particularly



17O ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

Resolved, That the Board of Directors shall not be at liberty to
bestow Medals or other Honorary marks of Distinction upon any
Militia Man or Soldier who shall be convicted of Desertion or
absenting himself from his Duty without leave from his Superior
Officer, or to afford any Eelief whatever from the Funds of this
Society, to the Family of such Person.



Lieut. Col. Nichol to Talbot.'

My Dear Colonel Nia S ara Decr ' 18 ~ 1812 '

You must think me the worst of men for the apparent neglect of
you since my return from Montreal but when you know that I have
not had time even to see my own wife you will not I am sure think me
much to blame This cursed office to which for my sins I have been
appointed engrosses all my time and if I dont soon get leave to resign
it I believe I shall go crazy.

I have not had it in my power to attend as yet to either your
affairs or my own

Alas my Dear Colonel we are 'no longer commanded by Brock
& our situation is most materially changed for the worse Confidence
seems to have vanished from the land and gloomy dispondency has
taken its place I dare not trust myself to write you all I feel the
Field Officers of the Troops & Militia have saved the country for a
time but their efforts will be unavailing against bad management and
despondency in those who are at our head and who ought to be better
qualified to fill energetically the high and important situations they
hold. You may however depend upon it that those on this line will
not relax in their exertions to save the country. I enclose you the
only scrap of Paper I have I have no longer access to the Staff papers
I however learn, by the mail just arrived that a body of about 700 of
the Enemy attempted to surprise one of our Pickets at Odell Town
they retired without doing us any damage loosing 60 or 70 in killed
and Wounded we took five Prisoners

It is a long time since we have had any Continental intelligence
but there is no doubt our affairs will continue to prosper in Spain
In Russia I fear matters are not so favorable. Gray the Assistant
but now acting Depy Q. M. General arrived here a few days ago he
goes off this morning to lay down the keel of a Frigate at York and
a sloop of War at Kingston the one to carry 30 guns viz 24 32 Pd.
Canonades & 6 long 18s the other of the class of the Royal George



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 171

an establishment from the Koyal Navy is to man them so I hope
we shall yet hold up our heads I have really had no time to attend
to your Concerns Your coat is with my Baggage at Kingston for
which I have sent by land

Young Eolph x just come in will tell you all the American News.

Adieu my Dear Colonel believe me most faithfully

Yours. EOB. NICHOL.

P.S. Couche will not pay me for the provisions & other things
furnished by your orders

E. N.

P.S. Maddison re elected Lord Wellington at Burgos The
Eussians according to the French Bulletins defeated with immense loss
say 50,000 they (the French) acknowledge to have lost 10,000 several
Genls killed on both sides

(Addressed on the back)
Colonel Talbot
Dover Mills



Draft Eeport, Col. Talbot to Gen. Sheaffe.
Sir

I am commanded by His Honor the President and Lieutenant
General to relate such particulars, as I am acquainted with in explana-
tion of the Enclosed Papers.

Soon after the irruption of the U. States Troops under the com-
mand of Brigadier General McArthur, thro' the Western & London
Districts, in the beginning of the month of November last, Deputy
Commissary General Turquand paid a visit to Long Point, at which
place I then was, for the purpose of ascertaining the extent of the
injury committed by the Enemy. It was found that the London Dis-
trict had still a quantity of Grain and other Provisions. Mr. Tur-
quand being very anxious to secure for the supply of His Majesty's
Troops every description df Provisions and Forage, Consulted with me
as to the prices, that would be proper to offer on the part of Govern-

J John Rolph, born 1793; died, 1870. He arrived at New York from
England after war was declared. This occasioned his detention in the
United States. The letter apparently refers to his arrival from the States.
His subsequent career is well known. He greatly distinguished himself at
the Bar, in political life, and as a medical practitioner. (See Canniff, The
Medical Profession in Upper Canada; Dent, The Story of the Upper Canada
Rebellion, etc., etc.)



172 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

mcnt for the same, My opinion was (considering the sufferings &
losses sustained during the War by the Inhabitants of the Western &
London Districts, together with their remote situation, which added
greatly to the prices of all Articles they were under the necessity of
procuring from the Lower Canada) that they ought to receive favorable
prices for their produce as were given in other parts of the Province,
therefore recommended the Deputy Commissaiy General to adopt the
same rate that was established by the Magistrates of the District
of Niagara which was accordingly done, and notifications put up at the
most public places through the District of London signed by Deputy
Commissary General Turquand, offering his prices viz. Fourteen Dol-
lars per barrel for Flour, and for other Articles as established at
Niagara The foregoing arrangement gave universal satisfaction, and
considerable quantities of Provisions were brought in to the Commis-
sariat Stores at Long Point. On my return from Montreal to Long
Point a short time back in Company with Commodore Sir James L.
Yeo, we went to the House of Major Salmon, of the Norfolk Militia
In the course of conversation with Major Salmon I enquired how the
Commissariat was getting on, & whether the Inhabitants had brought
in much provisions, his answer was that matters were not going on well,
that Mr. Halywho had charge of the Commissariat at Long Point,
& who had, by his mild behaviour & punctual payments for all supplies,
acquired the Confidence, and esteem, of that part of the country, was
removed, and a Mr. Clark was then in charge, whose manner was
entirely opposite, that Mr. Haly had requested of Major Salmon to
urge the farmers to thresh & bring in their Wheat to the Mill, with
all possible expedition, in order that it might be ground & the flour
sent off whilst the sleighing was good that the inhabitants in com-
pliance with Major Salmon's request, were bringing in their Wheat to
the Mills, & when the Miller had packed a number of barrels of flour,
he gave in a return to Major Salmon, of the same, with the Names of
the several persons that Flour belonged to This return Major Salmon
took to Mr. Haly, who when he had money by him, paid each person
for his lot of Flour, & when he was without gave certificates to the
amount, which he discharged on getting a further supply of money
a day or two previous to the departure of Mr. Haly from Long Point,
Major Salmon had taken to him a return of the above description, when
Mr. Haly said that he was removed from that Post, but that Mr. Clark
who relieved him would no doubt attend to the same arrangements,
& receive & pay for the Flour as he had done.. Major Salmon accord-
ingly waited on Mr. Clark with a return of Flour, when Mr. Clark



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 173

refused to receive it observing that he had contractors who furnished
all the Flour he would require for His Majesty's Service, & at all events
he would not give more than twelve Dollars per Barrel for Flour. This
information from Major Salmon



Major General Sheaffe to Talbot.
My Dear Colonel, Fort George 19th Deer. 1812.

In consequence of the explanations furnished by you and Lt.
Colonel Nichol I shall authorise the payment of the sums disallowed
in the Estimate to the 24th Septr. for the pay of the Norfolk, Middle-
sex and Oxford Eegts.

I received Dispatches yesterday from Head Quarters to the 6th
Deer, a superintendent & store keeper for our Dock Yard is arrived at
Kingston a Mr. Plucknett who has been in one of our Dock yds at
home from 100 to 120 Shipwrights & 30 seamen are by this time
near Kingston Naval Officers and Seamen are expected from Halifax
a frigate and a sloop of war are to be built on this lake, and another
vessel like the Lady Prevost on Lake Erie Some gun boats with heavy
guns are to be added to the list.

The Royal George and Moira winter at Kingston.
There has been a rediculous affair near Champlain 6 or 700 Ameri-
cans attempted to surprise a picquet of ours of 20 Voyageurs & 12
Indians who were placed in a ditch by Mr. McCoy Commg. the Ameri-
cans so completely surrounded the post that had been occupied by our
people that in firing, as they supposed on them, they only injured one
another and our men joined in the fire without having a man hurt
the Enemy retired after having 50 or 60 killed & wounded a few of
the latter were taken.

T. Coffin is appointed temporary acting Asst. Commt. Genl. Lid.
W. has taken Burgos the French say they have beaten the Eussians on
the Eiver Maskwa 25 leagues from Moscow they own the loss of
10,000 and estimate that of the Eussians from 40 to 50,000 it is said
that the latter were joined after the battle by 40,000 from Moscow-
which City an uncredited report states to have been taken by the
French.

Madison is elected by a majority of 47; rumour says that the
United States frigate has been taken. Parliament is dissolved.

Massena advancing with 10,000 men towards Spain- Suchot &
Joseph have retired from Valentia- Seville taken by assault wit
little loss one of the large french mortars employed against Cadiz and



17 4 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

deserted by the Gauls, has been sent to England as a present to the
P. O f \y _ The Govt. of Spain has published a declaration of pardon
to all who have acted with the French.

I send you a copy of a paper I reed, yesterday from York dis-
seminate a knowledge of it it will soon be done in print

If you knew but all that I have to say, to write, and to do, you
might be able to estimate the value of so long a letter from

My dear Colonel,

Yours ever faithfully

R. H. SlIEAFFE.

Local intelligence I leave to Lt. Col. Bostwick.



Talbot to Captain John Haviland.

Colonel Talbot sends the deposition that he was mentioning for
Captain Haviland to sign, and the Colonel will thank Captn. Haviland
if he will send it back to him tomorrow.

Dover Mills

20th Deer. 1812.

(addressed on the back)

To Captain John Haviland, Townshend,

forw'd by Squire Springer
(This address cancelled. Re-addressed:)
To the Honble

Thomas Talbot
Dover.



London District
to Wit

Personally appeared before me Daniel Springer

Esquire one of His Majesty's Justices of the Peace

for the said District, Captain John Haviland of

Townshend, in the said District, who being duly sworn deposeth and

saith, that he, being in possession of an Order of Council for 2,600

acres of Land for his services during the late American Revolution,

and being desirous to obtain the said lands in the western parts of the

said London District in the month of March 1811, he humbly made

application to His Excellency Lieut. Governor Gore for permission to

locate the same in the Townships of Malahide or Bayham, to which



[COYNE]



THE TALBOT PAPERS



173



His Excellency was pleased to return the Deponent an answer thro'
Major Halton that those Townships, were subject to Settlement Duties
and were under the care of Colonel Talbot, he therefore referred the
Deponent to Colonel Talbot And the Deponent further saith, that
Major Halton communicated His Excellency's answer (as stated above)
to him, in the Surveyor General's office, and as he believes in the pre-
sence of Mr. Eidout the Surveyor General.

JOHN HAVILAND.
Sworn before me this

20th day of Decemr. 1812.

DANIEL SPRINGER J.P.



Quarterly Return of the first Regiment of the Militia of the
of Middlesex in the London District, in the Province of Upper Canada
for the twenty fourth December 1812.









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LI


< greatest satisfaction that we learn, that the most
vigorous measures have been adopted under the direction of his Excel-
lency the Commander of the Forces, and are now in operation, to
strengthen the Provincial Marine, and to preserve the superiority of
the Lakes, so essential to our safety and protection.

A co-operation with your Honor in such measures as may conduce
to the welfare and security of the Province, animates us with the hope,
that we shall be enabled to continue in that glorious career of victory
in which we have begun, and by the blessing of God, defend our Coun-
try against our enemies, and transmit our Laws, our Liberty and our
Constitution to the latest posterity.

Legislative Council Chamber, THOS. SCOTT,

March, the 2nd, 1813. Speaker.

To which His Honor was pleased to make the following Eeply:

Honorable Gentlemen,

Accept my thanks for your Address, it manifests a spirit of loyalty
and patriotism which cannot fail to be highly gratifying.

I feel confident of your cheerful aid and concurrence in whatsoever
can promote the Public welfare, and that your attention will be par-
ticularly directed to those measures which can most effectually contribute
towards the security of the Province.

2nd March, 1813.

Address of the House of Assembly in Answer to His Honor the
President's Speech.

To His Honor EOGER HALE SHEAFFE, Esquire, President Administering
the Government of the Province of Upper Canada, and Major-
General Commanding His Majesty's Forces therein,

May it Please your Honor,

We his Majesty's most dutiful and Loyal Subjects, the Commons
of Upper Canada in Provincial Parliament assembled, request your
Honor to accept of our humble thanks for your most gracious Speech.



[COYNBJ THE TALBOT PAPERS



181



We participate in the satisfaction expressed by your Honor at hav-
ing it in your power on the first time you are called upon to address
us, to offer your cordial congratulations on the uniform success which
has crowned His Majesty's Arms in this Province.

That the Enemy has been foiled in his machinations against it;
that three of his Armies have been surrendered or completely defeated,
and that two important Fortresses had been wrested from him, are to
us sources of the highest satisfaction.

It is with pride and exultation we learn, that the valour and dis-
cipline of his Majesty's regular Forces (so nobly displayed) in the
defence of this Province, have been ably supported by the zeal and
bravery of our Militia, and we feel confident, that while the Enemy
hall continue his hostile attempts the exertions of our Regular and
Militia Forces under the direction of your Honor, will be attended with
uniform success.

The death of our late most Gallant and lamented President, Major-
General Brock, who so nobly fell while contending against a superior
force of our enemies in defence of this Province, has excited in iis
feelings of sorrow and regret, and while we lament our inability to
bestow on his great and distinguished merits, any other reward than
our praise; we learn with the greatest satisfaction the high sense of
the services of that able and Gallant Officer manifested by his Royal
Highness the Prince Regent, who has been pleased in his Majesty's
name to associate him to the most Honorable Military Order of the
Bath.

"We are happy to perceive the favorable impression which the liberal
appropriations of the Legislature of the two Canadas, and the deter-
mined resistance manifested by the loyal inhabitants have made on his
Royal Highness the Prince Regent, and with him we think that little
apprehension need be entertained of the result of any trial in which
they may be called to prove their courage and perseverance.

When the Public Accounts are laid before us, we will pay that
attention to them that the nature of the subject requires, and shall
always be happy to afford every means in our power, to assist in the
defence of the Province.

We are much concerned to learn that doubts have been suggested
as to the sufficiency of the late Crops to supply the probable wants of
the Colony, if the exportation and distillation of Grain be uncontrolled.
We shall give to such a subject of so much moment, our most serious
consideration, and shall endeavour to provide such remedy as the emer-
gency may appear to require.



182 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

We are perfectly sensible of the meritorious services of the Militia
of this Province, and although they must, in a contest like the present,
unavoidably suffer privations, still when they consider the great object
for which they contend, they will be convinced that their sufferings
are inevitable. Their situation demands our most serious attention.

We feel highly gratified to learn that His Excellency the Com-
mander of the Forces has been pleased to order clothing for a consider-
able proportion of the Militia, and we will be happy to contribute every
thing in our power towards their comfort.

We shall direct our attention to the Laws about to expire, and
shall endeavour to make such amendments to the Militia Act now in
force, as may be necessary to render it more efficient.

Your Honor's request to be enabled to pay in advance half yearly,
the annuity granted to Widows and Children and Persons disabled in
the Service, is a proof of the humanity so conspicuous in your Char-
acter ; and it will be highly pleasing to us to comply with your Honor's
request.

We learn with the highest satisfaction, that the most vigorous
measures have been adopted, under the direction of the Commander
of the Forces, and are now in operation to strengthen the Provincial
Marine and preserve the superiority on the Lakes so essential to the
safety of this Province.

We are perfectly sensible that dispatch in our deliberations is at
this juncture particularly necessary, and we beg leave to assure your
Honor that we have the utmost confidence in your Honor's admmstra-
tion and in your well known exertions for the defence of the Province,
and the safety and prosperity of its inhabitants.

ALLAN M'LEAN, Speaker.

V

Commons House of Assembly, York, 26th February, 1813.

To which His Honor was pleased to make the following Eeply:
Gentlemen,

I thank you for this Address, so cordially responsive to my own
sentiments.

The confidence you express in the successful resistance to any
attempts of the enemy on this Province, is a further pledge of the
loyalty and bravery of his Majesty's subjects, and which, with the assur-
ance you give of contributing every means in your power to aid them
in its defence, cannot but be highly satisfactory.

27th February, 1813.



I

[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 183



ADDRESS from the House of Assembly to his Honor the President, con-
gratulating him upon his accession to the Government and his
success in repelling the attempts of the Enemy upon this
Province.

To His Honor Koger Hale Sheaffe, President, administering the Gov-
ernment of the Province of Upper Canada, and Major General
Commanding his Majesty's Forces therein, &c. &c.


May it please your Honor,

We his Majesty's most dutiful and loyal subjects the Commons
of Upper Canada in Provincial Parliament assembled, deeply impressed
with the highest sentiments of respect towards your person, beg leave
to approach your Honor at a "juncture so interesting and important to
the welfare of this part of his Majesty's dominions, and to congratulate
your Honor upon your accession to the supreme executive authority
of the Civil as well as the Military administration of the Government
of this Province, at the same time we cannot refrain from deploring
the event which deprived this much favoured Colony of one of its
brightest ornaments, and our Mother Country of an invaluable Officer
in the death of your Predecessor. It affords us however, a consolation
and alleviates the poignancy of our sorrow for the loss of so esteemed
a Chief, that in his Successor those qualities are found which have
been so successfully exerted by him to repel an inveterate invading
Enemy, conciliate the affections of all and maintain the true spirit
and character of Englishmen.

We are not insensible to the many arduous and perplexing diffi-
culties which have pressed upon your Honor, in civil as well as military
concerns, and it is with the most lively heartfelt satisfaction we express
our sincere conviction of the wisdom and policy with which you have
performed them since the reins of Government devolved upon you
and in a particular manner we feel it a duty incumbent upon us as
the Eepresentative Body of this Colony, to set forth to the People at
large our warmest approbation of the military skill displayed by your
Honor on every occasion, and the great solicitude always manifested
on your part to mitigate the hardships to which our loyal and brave
Militia were inevitably exposed and further to state to your Honor,
that we feel the strongest and most unlimited confidence in your future
exertions of energy and of conduct to preserve to us unimpaired the
happy Constitution under which we have so long lived, and so long
been prosperous. That your efforts will be seconded by every individual
in this Province to the utmost of his ability, we can have no reason



184 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

to entertain a doubt; and that continued and ultimate success may
crown them under the peculiar guidance of Divine Providence, is our
most sincere and ardent hope. Since thus we shall be enabled to
transmit to our Posterity in their purity, those invaluable rights, priv-
ileges and immunities which our ancestors bled to establish, and so
cherished by their descendants, who know as well how to appreciate as
to enjoy rational and solid Freedom.

(Signed)

ALLAN MACLEAN, Speaker.

Commons House of Assembly, 3d March, 1813.

To which his Honor was pleased to make the following Keply:

Gentlemen,

I receive with the most lively sensibility your congratulations on
my having succeeded to the Civil and Military administration of the
Government of this Province. I condole with you on the event which
you so justly deplore, having served too long at the side of my able
iind gallant predecessor, not to have learnt how to estimate his high
worth, and to be sensible of the irreparable loss which the Province
sustained in being deprived of his services at so important a juncture.

Accept, Gentlemen, my warmest thanks for the expression of your
favourable sentiments towards me, and for the confidence you repose in
me by the aid of a kind Providence the designs of the Enemy have
hitherto been baffled, and I trust chat it will still continue to grant
its support to us, and to smile on the efforts of a brave and loyal
People, who are engaged in the noble task of resisting unjust aggres-
sion and of struggling to protect their families and their farms, and
to preserve for themselves and for their posterity, not only their pro-
perty, but all those precious and inestimable privileges which are en-
joyed in this Province as a member of the British Empire; May their
exertions in so glorious a cause be crowned with success, and may the
blessings of Civil Liberty, Social Order and Happiness flow through
successive ages to your descendants pure and uninterrupted.

5th March, 1813.

To Lieutenant General Sir GEORGE PREVOST, Bart, commander of the

Forces, &c, &c. &c.

May it please your Excellency,

We the Magistrates and other Inhabitants of the Town of York.
are happy in having an opportunity of paying that respect which we



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 183

owe to your Excellency, & of offering our most sincere thanks and
acknowledgements for the attention you have been pleased to shew to
this Province.

The pride and pleasure which we feel from the behaviour of our
gallant Militia, is greatly heightened when we consider that their con-
duct is honored with your approbation, and that you are pleased to
testify your sense of their services in ordering clothing for a considerable
proportion of their number ; an act of benevolence and humanity, which
will make a deep and lasting impression on their minds, and stimulate
them to preserve that high character which they have always acquired.
But we should indeed be much wanting to your Excellency, as well as
to ourselves, if we did not on this occasion with gratitude acknowledge
the obligations which this Province lays under to the valor and dis-
cipline of his Majesty's regular Forces, whose courage and conduct on
the most trying emergencies, have done honor to the name and to the
character of a British Soldier.

We are particularly gratified (and offer our most sincere thanks
and acknowledgements) for the vigorous exertions which have been
made, and are still carrying on towards the strengthening our Provincial
Marine, by order of your Excellency, fully convinced that to maintain
a superiority on the Lakes is an object of the first importance to this
Province.

Thankful for that success which has hitherto crowned his Majesty's
arms under your command, we earnestly wish for its continuance, enter-
taining the pleasing hope, that by our own conduct, and the exertions
of our brave defenders, we in this Colony, by the blessing of God, may
long remain under the protection of our Parent State a free, brave,
and loyal People.

To which his Excellency was pleased to return the following
Answer :

To the Magistrates and other Inhabitants of the Town of York.

Gentlemen,

I am highly sensible of your sincere thanks and acknowledgements
for the attention which you consider me to have evinced to the welfare
and preservation of this valuable Province.

Not only my duty, but also the express Commands of his Royal
Highness the Prince Eegent, govern my conduct, in regulating and
improving those objects which excite your approbation, and in express-
ing the high respect I entertain of the gallant and patriotic behaviour
of your Militia, I express the Sentiments of your Sovereign, and your



186 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

fellow subjects .throughout his Majesty's empire, who admire and
applaud the exertions of a free, brave and loyal people, manfully con-
' tending to preserve for themselves and their children the fostering
protections of a virtuous, wise and powerful State.

Government House,

York, Upper Canada, March 3d. 1813.



Talbot to Lieutenant Governor Gore.
Duplicate.

Port Talbot 20th March 1813.
My Dear Governor

I am well aware that you will exclaim how provoking to be a
this distance pestered by that fellow Talbot, even so, but be assured that
you did not leave a more steady and sincere friend or one who has
more frequently prayed for the speedy return of yourself and my dear
Mrs. Gore to Upper Canada than him. Nothing but urgent necessity
could impel me to break in upon your time and comforts to describe
the distress of mind, that has almost continually harassed me, since
yonr departure, is beyond my ability, arising from the joint impertinence
and contempt of the late General Brock and Ridout The Surr. Genl.
to your orders and arrangements in respect to the Lands which you
were pleased to place under my care. I am confident that your own
recollection of circumstances will confirm my assertions that you had
directed that in addition to the Talbot Road the Townships of Malahide
and Bayham should be reserved for me to recommend actual settlers
for who should be liable to the same settlement duties as those imposed
on the Talbot Road. I was accordingly in the winter of 1811 fur-
nished by the Surveyor Genl. with plans of the aforesaid Townships
and shortly after assigned a great proportion of the Lands to a valuable
description of settlers who had removed into this Province from Nova
Scotia not for a moment suspecting that any interference would have
occurred between the Government and myself, when to my unspeakable
surprise and mortification, I was informed by accident, in the month
of July last, that General Brock had granted to Mr. Hale the Paymaster
Genl. at Quebec 5,000 acres, Mr. Stanton, a clerk in your office 600
acres, and to a Presbyterian Scotch Priest 400 acres in Malahide &
Bayham, without any condition of settlement, and which grants com-
prehended the land actually occupied by the Nova Scotia settlers. I
immediately remonstrated and applied to Genl. Brock for an explana-
tion, requesting that he would have the injury repaired, by calling



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 187

upon those who had received grants to surrender the Deeds, for Lands
elsewhere. Genl. Brock assured me that he was unacquainted with
the circumstances of the lands having been placed under my charge,
adding at the same time, a censure upon his Predecessor for transferring
the most essential prerogative of the person administering the Govern-
ment. I then addressed a letter to Eidout, requiring his reasons for
recommending locations in the Townships of Bayham & Malahide
without consulting me, as he was in possession of your Excellency's
orders on their subject, in reply Eidout, boldly declared that he had
never received any instructions from you, placing such lands under my
care. You may easily imagine my indignation at the humiliating situa-
tion in which I found myself innocently involved with the poor people
that I had induced to settle on the land and who had expended their
time, labour and property in performing the duties attached to each lot.
Wherefore I humbly and earnestly entreat that you will contrive to re-
lieve my anxiety by having the goodness to transmit to me, with as little
delay as possible an authority for the steps I have taken in placing
settlers in Malahide and Bayham. The particular situation of those
Townships cannot so soon have escaped your recollection, and that the
first proposal actually came from you, that I should take charge and
watch over the settlement of that Part of the Province likewise that
I did not derive the smallest emolument *from the power given to me,
but on the contrary incurred much expense and trouble, by having my
house constantly filled with applicants for Land. Should your superior
Judgment not conceive it incompatible it strikes me as a judicious
measure, for your Excellency to explain to the Secretary of State for
the Colonial Department, the motives that induced you to entrust me
with the settlement of the Tract in question, proceeding from the
injurious system of your Predecessors in burdening the most delightful
and valuable part of the Province, with all the reservations, that the
Government found expedient to lay apart for the establishment of
Seminaries &c. &c. and that



Captain J. B. Glegg to Talbot.

Burlington Heights,
Dear Colonel 30 Mch. 1813.

During the last two days I have been so much indisposed as to be
incapable of doing anything, the application of a blister to my chest
has relieved me a good deal, and will I hope equal Doctor Kerr's



188 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

expectations, but my arm is of little use to me I did hope that it
would have been in my power to send you an acceptable Bulletin by
Lt. Metcalf, as Col^ H. wrote me on the 27th that the army were to
cross the river that night for the purpose of advancing against Genl.
McCluje who it was expected had taken up a position at the Eleven
mile Creek beyond Buffalo. On the way Buffalo and Black rock were
to be reduced to ashes I hope in God their hearts did not fail them,
for such an expedition consisting of one thousand Regulars, and 500
Indians could not fail meeting with success I hope you and others
received the letters sent on a few days since thro' Lt. Col. Stewart
containing Bills for paying the Militia.

I sent them in the first instance after you to S. Hatt's but yon
were gone Do let me have the earliest possible intelligence if there
is any truth in the report of an Enemy being still on the Thames

You may rely on hearing punctually from me when there is any
good news to relate and my health enables me to write I can scarcely
now hold my pen I have written in very strong terms to Lt. Genl.
Drummond respecting the merits of Lt. Metcalf and Ensign McGregor.

Yrs. faithfully,

J. B. GLEQO.

Genl. Vincent and Barnard are here waiting anxiously for snow.
I send you a Quebec newspaper.

(Addressed on the back)
To Colonel Talbot
&c. &c. &c.

Dover Mills
Forward by Lt. Metcalf.



York 31st March 1813.

Received from Edward Couche Esqr. Dy. Corny. General by the
Hands of Colonel Talbot a Parcel containing one thousand Pounds
Currency in army Bills.



GEO. CROOKSHANK

D. A. C. Genl.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 189

Lieut Col. Nichol to Talbot.

Niagara April 29

My Dear Colonel y 2 past 3 A.M.

An Express arrived about an hour ago with very distressing
accounts from York in Short it appears that York was about w
surrender to the Enemy after having had both its Magazines exploded
& suffering very great loss in killed and wounded We know not what
has become of Sir Roger but suppose he is a prisoner. In such a
juncture it is necessary that every prompt and decisive measure should
be adopted to remedy this disaster to prevent the Enemy profiting in
any great degree by this Success. You are so much better acquainted
with the localities of the Country than the General himself that every-
thing in your District is left to Your own discretion & it is hoped
that the Enemy may yet be prevented from penetrating into the Country
on the Side of the Head of the Lake. It will be necessary that you
keep up a regular Communication with Ancaster & regulate your move-
ments by the Accounts you may receive from thence, keeping an eye
at the same time upon the Lake from whence however it is not sup-
posed the Enemy can commence operations for some time yet. Arms
and ammunition are on the way for you.

In great haste,

faithfully yours,

EOBT. NICHOL Lt. Col.

Q.M. Genl. Militia.
Col. Talbot.

(The address is as follows, endorsed:)
April 29 On Service

1813

Coll. Talbot

Coming

London District.
To be forwarded immediately

Lt. Col. Xichol.



Draft letter, Col. Talbot to Brig. Gen. Vincent.
My Dear General. Dover Mills 18th May 1813.

Your favor of the llth instant reached me at a late hour last
night. I had for two days been anticipating much gratifying com-



19O ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

munication from you, in consequence of reports having been current
that Genl. Proctor had obtained a complete and brilliant victory over
Harrison, likewise accounts stating that the officers and Seamen had
actually arrived at Kingston and that the most active exertions prevailed
in the dock yard at that place, and as if good news was not to have
an end, it was said that Sir George Prevost intended to assume the
command in this Province, and was on his way up with a powerful
reenforcement from the source, I have received the foregoing. I am
in hourly expectation of having my anxiety relieved by a confirmation
of those desirable events from you. As to the York affair, as yet, all
my accounts of the disastrous and I fear, disgraceful, proceedings,
attending its capture have been by fragments. The Governing Heads
must have been in a state of Torpor, not to have made arrangements
for securing the office papers.

I will immediately attend to your instructions regarding the
appointment of fit persons to be bearers of dispatches between myself
and Major Hatt. Have the goodness to instruct me as to the pay of
persons on express service.

The Militia of the larger proportion of this District shew great
promptness in turning out, but there is a part, The County of Oxford,
*hat with a very few exceptions, is I am sorry to say, composed of a
more violent and systematic band of Enemies than those that compose
the American Army Should Sir George reach the Lines with a strong
Force I will recommend that all the Aliens should be sent out of the
Province, with as little delay as possible, as they are indefatigable in
spreading discord and alarm amongst the Inhabitants, and it would be
a most salutary measure should circumstances admit, to send 100 or
even 50 Regulars to be stationed at Turkey Point under an active and
steady o iVicer as the presence cf fucli a force would create the necessary
confidence in the well disposed and traitors would be intimidated into
subordination.

I have every difficulty in procuring a correct return of the arms
distributed thro' the District the Militiamen have been so careless of
their arms, the chief of such as were on duty during the last autumn
and winter on the lines and deserted or ran home, left their arms
behind him and others had orders from Col. Bishopp to deliver in
their Arms on being dismissed from Fort Erie. I am able to account
for 350 stand including the 100 which you ordered up lately. I should
have

Brigadier General Vincent
&c. &c. &c.



[COYNEJ THE TALBOT PAPERS 191

Lt. Col. Burwell to Talbot.
My Dear Colonel. Port Talbot 21st May 1813.

Yours of the 19th inst. I have just reed. Lt. Col. Bostwick had
" informed me of Genl. Proctors success, on his way down. I regret
that the victory was not more complete I did hope that that expedi-
tion would have finished the Western Campaign for this year Then
we might have sent the Regulars below again I had not heard before
that Sir Roger retreated to Kingston A report was circulated here
which I was inclined to believe, that he only retreated to the river
Don I lament the death of poor Donald McLean I think he was
a good person I fear many more of the good people of York are
gone also, but I am happy to learn that the Provincial Papers are not
destroyed As that excited considerable of alarm in me Our loss
must have been great but I hope the enemy will not be much benefited
by it We must have had considerable stores of Provisions there, but
I shall be content if Sir Roger had them all destroyed previous to
his retreat What a wanton, ferocious & savage proceeding, that was
to burn the Govt. House at the Beech A House they must have known
purely for the accommodation of travellers I am glad to hear that
Sir George Prevost is a little aroused for the security of this Province
If the arrival of the reinforcements should be pretty prompt & that
account of the Seamen arrived, and preparations making at Kingston
true we may still prevent them from destroying our settlements about
Lake Ontario Their thinking that they have such a complete mastery
of the Lake may lull them into such a confidence of their superiority
that I should not be at all surprised to hear that our Vessels have
lessened their Flotilla The Inhabitants are now in the midst of
their planting, & it will be like drawing their eye teeth to call (them
out until they have done I hope to see you here in a day or two
Tomorrow according to Agreement I am going to survey the Road to
Ireland You have 193 Bbls. Flour Packed 100 Bushels of Wheat to
grind yet & Chase has not brought down your share of his Wheat
yet The Water has failed all at once so that we cannot get a morsel
ground Many of the settlers have no Flour at all The weather
was so wet only a few days ago, that nobody thought of a scarcity of
Water Indeed if they had come to Mill Walter could not have ground
for them until yours was finished I however hope that there will
be rain soon The Water got so low that they could not grind any
& they took it into their heads to draw it entirely off & stop all leakage
which was but trifling Your Cornfield is Ploughed You had only
6 Bushels Pease, which are sowed Barley is sowed Barbers Pota-
toes are rotten Kerr does not know where to get more for seed



102

Maybe I have a few Mrs. Henly is gone She had a very sore
finger two weeks & then went to old Mr. M'Intire's to get Doctored
Jem Vail has a bad finger & cant do anything Kerr has to do all
the cooking himself which hinders him from work he wish you at
home very much Cook has had one Agriculture

I have the Honor to be

My Dear Colonel

Yours truly
MAHLON BURWELL.
To

The Honble

Col. Talbot
(Addressed on the back)

On Service
To

The Honble

Thomas Talbot Esquire

Colonel Commg. London
District
Dover.



Muster Eoll of a Detachment of the 2 Eegt. Norfolk Militia under
the Command of Lieut. Titus Williams captured by the (Enemy at
Sugar Loaf Hill the 17th June, 1813:



Names


Periods.
From To




*

<->

o



fc




T3

V

(X



2


Amount.


Lieut. Titus Williams


1813
25 May

2 July
1814
16 June

a

u


1814
9 July
24 Feb.
24 July
24 July

24 July

u
u

a


410
269
425
387

39
39
39
39
39
39


6/6
6

a
u
u

u
it


133 5
6 14 6
10 12 6
9 13 6

19 6
19 6
19 6
19 6
19 6
19 6


Privt. John Widner


Jeremiah Green


Sobriqui Dominique... .
Angus Mclntire


Charles Knight


Elija Montoure


Alex. Logan


John Furry


Samuel Troup


Army Sterling Dollars at 4/3








L.


166 26



Certified

Thomas Talbot
Col. Commandg. Militia.
London Dist.



TITUS WILLIAMS, Lt.



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 193

General Procter to Talbot.

Sandwich September. 23d. 1813
My dear Colonel.

I have to thank you for your Letter by Captain Blackhouse. As
our ill fated Fleet has certainly been all taken or destroyed It would
be the almost certain Loss of any Boats to send them to you by the
Lake; tho' the 150 Barrels of Flour you sent by Mr. Smith are for-
tunately arrived safe at Amherstburg. If Boats can be sent you from
the Thames it shall be done. I hope Sir James Yeo may be able to
effect Something to counterbalance our Disaster on this Lake. He
was at Anchor on the 15th inst. in the Bay of Quentee. He was to
sail next morning to meet the Enemy. You are aware that I cannot
remain in my present Position without the Eisk of being cut off from
all Supplies. I have with much Difficulty brought the Principal Part
of the Indians to reason. I have much to say to you, but I am much
pressed for time, and Captain Blackhouse is very anxious of being off.
The State of the Eoads and the Bridges are a primary Consideration
at present, especially those thro' the wilderness. I conceive tnat a
couple of good Huts, two Kooms in each, should be constructed in the
wilderness, also Cover for a few Horses, at the 14 Mile Tree, where
there is a Creek of tolorable good Water. If you will cause it to be
done, I shall sanction the Expense, and the Public and I will be obliged
to you. Many would be glad of such a Situation to keep a House of
Accommodation. The Bridges are bad some of them on this Side of
the wilderness, and also between Delaware and Dorchester. Our Prin-
cipal Depot of Flour should be I conceive at Delaware. I shall direct
accordingly, if you see no Eeason to the contrary. Pray let me often
hear from you. I shall feel obliged to you for any Suggestions you
may favor me with, for the forwarding the Service or the public Good.
My Sick are on the Thames as are my women. I have also removed
the little heavy Ordnance I have left. It was taken on Board the
unfortunate Detroit. Poor Barclay ! I have sent Mrs. Proctor off and
fear she will have much to encounter. My eldest Daughter was ill,
and but little recovered when she set off, three Days since. What a
sudden, what a complete Eeverse! If Poor Barclay & I had been
attended to our Eeverse would not have happened.

Believe me,

with much esteen & Eegard
faithfully yours,

(sgd) HENRY PROCTER.

Sec. II., 1907. 13.



194 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

A List of the Men on Duty at the House of Andrew Westbrook
in Delaware From the Twenty-seventh January to the first February
1814 under the Command of Captain Daniel Springer.

1. Benjamin Schram, Sergeant

2. Joseph House, Do

1. William Dingman, Private

2. Lawrence Dingman

3. William Schram

4. David Dingman

5. John McClemings

6. Joseph Davy

7. Joshua Chamberling

8. John Crandell

9. Frederick Sheneck

10. Samuel Stiles

11. Frederick Stroback

London District. Personally appeared before me Thomas Bowlsby
Esquire one of his Majesty's Justices of the Peace in and for the said
District Benjamin Schram Serjant in the 1st Regt. Middlesex Militia,
Who Being duly sworn maketh oath and saith that the persons above
stated was actually on Duty at the House of Andrew Westbrook in
Delaware on or about the first day of February last, under the Com-
mand of Captain Daniel Springer.

BENJAMIN SCHRAM

Serjant Middx. Militia.
Sworn before me 23rd day
of November 1814.

THOMAS BOWLBY J.P.



Dr. John Rolph to Talbot.

(Memo, by the editor. The following letter relates to the death
of Dr. Thomas Eolph which occurred on March 24, 1814. He was
buried on the Rolph, later known as the Treadwell farm, on the south
side of Talbot Road, just west of St. Thomas. His grave was long
afterwards ploughed over when the land had passed to the possession of
others. This information is given on the authority of one of his descen-
dants. He died at Charlotteville, according to the Surrogate Court
records.)

My Dear Sir. Monday Morning

You will, I am sure, in a degree participate the sorrow I feel in
a very great loss wh. we have so recently sustained Independent,



[COYNE I THE TALBOT PAPERS 195

my dear sir, of those feelings wh. nature has implanted and education
improved, a family of such extent as ours, must necessarily feel the
privation with peculiar severity I am obliged to you for the concern
you expressed for his illness and lament that it must extend to his
death at present I scarcely know my own feelings for the last and
highest duty I can perform to so valuable a friend, is to check my own
feelings and direct my exertion for the comforting a disconsolate mother
and to protect those in the crisis about to happen who are unable to
protect themselves My father seemd quite unconscious of his ap-
proaching dissolution. He expired on the sofa and sunk as he thought
into sleep. It is I assure you not a trifling consolation to me that
he died with so much ease and without those distressing reflections wh.
a Father must experience when about to leave such a retinue behind.
Had he lived his life wd. Have been very unhappy during the trouble-
some times we shall probably witness. He is now much happier, and
I even sometimes hop'e He may occasionally glance upon us from Heaven
and smile upon a more fortunate issue than the aspect of affairs will
allow us to anticipate.

The inclosed letter is the last He wrote and was omitted in the
last dispatch to you. I have kept it sacred and send you a Relic wh.
I wd. willingly have preserved myself.

Excuse me, my dear sir, from sendg. you the particulars you
requested when the awful ceremonies of tomorrow are over, 1 shall
be better able to attend to such duties.

With great Eespect, believe me, Dr. Sir,

Yrs obliged & truly

J. ROLPH.

My Brother just arrived from York to follow my Father with me
to the Grave. He desires his respects to you.

E.

To

The Hon. Thomas Talbot
&c. &c. &c.

Port Talbot.



Lieutenant Colonel Mahlon Burwell to Talbot.
My Dear Colonel. Oyster Creek, 5th April 1814.

On my way to Port Talbot I last evening met Geo. Coltman at
this place who has informed me that you have gone to Long Point



196 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

I intended to have brought my family away immediately but Wallace
tells me that you went away in Huntley's Skiff, which I depended upon
as my only means of getting my family from Port Talbot Coltman
says that Captain Secord has gone to Scrams on the North Branch
for a Box of Arms I shall go to Kettle Creek to-day & get some
person to go to Port Talbot tomorrow & see Willson & Patterson, & if
Secord gets the arms & I can get word of the approach of the Enemy,
I shall call out the Militia from the Street, & meet him at Port Talbot
If there should be no more than 30 Dragoons & one Company of Men,
I trust we would have no great difficulty in managing them I beg
that you will send back the Skiff as soon as possible that I may take
my family away, for I can never think of leaving them alone, which
I shall be forced to do, if I cant get them away before the Enemy's
approach. The travelling is so bad that I dont believe the Yankies
will be there for several days.

I have the Honor to be
&c. &c. &c.

MAHLON BURWELL.
The Hon.

Col. Talbot.

I shall send you an express in a day or two.
(Endorsed)

On Service
The Honble

Colonel Talbot
&c. &c. &c.

Long Point.



For Detachments of the Middlesex & Essex Militia stationed at and
in advance of Port Talbot.

Memm of Provisions issued at Port Talbot,
from 25th Oct. to 24th Novemr. 1813.

1 Colonel 4 Rations.
1 Capn.
25 Privates

from 25th Novemr. to 24th Deer. 1813.
1 Colonel 4 Eations.

1 Capn.

2 Subalns.
70 Privates

3 Women
6 Children



[COYNB] THE TALBOT PAPERS 197

from 25th Decemr. 1813 to 24th Jany. 1814.

1 Colonel 4 Eations.

1 Capn.
30 Privates

3 Women

6 Children
from 25th Jany. to 24th Feby. 1814.

1 Colonel 4 Rations.

1 Capn.
23 Privates

3 Women

6 Children
from 25th Feby. to 24th March 1814.

1 Colonel 4 Eations.

2 Capns.

2 Subalterns
63 Privates

3 Women
6 Children

: from 25th March to 24th April 1814.

1 Colonel 4 Eations.
1 Capn.
1 Subn.
35 Privates
3 Women
6 Children

N.B. Eations were Field Eations in Pork and flour.

Womens Names. Children

Margt. Craford Thos. Craford

Mary Crafor Magnus Craford.

Elizth. Mitchel John Mitchel

Wm. Mitchel
Jane Mitchel
Mary Mitchel

Head Quarters, Kingston,
Militia General Orders. December 2d, 1814.

1. His Honor the Prefident, and Lieutenant General Command-
ing, has been pleased to direct, that all the Sedentary Militia, at prefent
on duty, be forthwith drfmrffed, and permitted to return to their homes ;
with the exception of thofe only, employed on a particular service,



198 ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

under the fuperintendance of Aififtant Commiffary General OOOK-
/hank, near York.

2. In future, when any portion of Militia, however (mall, is
called out on the Public Service, a copy of the Orders, iffued on the
occafion, a return of the strength of the detachment, with a Xominal
Lift of the Officers thereof, the Duty to be performed, the Station
where to be employed, and the Probable Duration of the Service, are
to be transmitted to the Adjutant General of Militia, at Head Quarters,
for the Information of His Honor, tb,e President.

3. Thefe Eeturns, and Communications, are not only to be trans-
mitted, by the officer commanding the Regiment, from whence the
Drafts are made, but alfo, by the Officer in immediate command of the
Detachment.

4. A Monthly Eeturn will alfo be required, from Commanding
Officers of Corps, on the 25th of each Month ; agreeable to a form which
will be transmitted to them; feveral copies of which will, in the firft
inftance, be iffued to each Commanding Officer.

By Command of His Honor the Prefident and Lieutenant General
Commanding.

C. FOSTER.

Adjutant General of Militia,
Upper Canada.



List of Names of the Persons who turned out at a moment's
warning to oppose the Plunderers upon hearing that they had advanced
to Port Talbot 20th May about 6 o'clock P.M. stating some cir-
cumstances

Lt. Col. Burwell

McLemens gave half an Hours notice
of their approach

Neil McNair 1 were all on their way in time to have completed the de-

John Burwell struction of the Enemy but were turned back by Lt. Col.



Rob. Burwell
David Wallace



Burwell to Neal's place to wait for a reinforcement, when
he was frustrated in his first plan.



Geo. Coltman

Charles Benedict

Benjn. Johnson

Benjn. Willson Junr. taken away by his father.

10

Jesse Page
Mark Chass
Geo. Crane
James Chase
Stephen Backus
Walter Story &
John Pearce



Page was sent to warn and reports that they were
ready in a moment Lt.Col. Burwell saw some of them since
& is convinced that if he had not been deprived of Ben
Willson would have formed a junction with him before
dark.



[COYNE]



THE TALBOT PAPERS



199



Captain Willson made prisoner at the Mill.

Captain Patterson Do. B. Smith's Shop.

Walter Galbraith Do. at the Mill.

Thos. Mathews Do. on his way to oppose the Enemy.



Timothy Neal
B. Swisher
O. Pettit
K. Neville
Jno. Neville
M. Cowell
A. Ross



When Lt. Col. Burwell was defeated in his first plan he
halted those above mentioned whom he met on their
march until he could have time to bring them forward to
act with them ; but it was too late, being break of day when
they arrived at Town Line.



Wm. Johnson sent to Mr. Rapleje in the night with a verbal acct. of the alarm.
8



Mr. Daniel Rapelje
Ensign B. Willson
James Nevills
Jeronimus Rapelje
George Rapelje
Thomas Curtis
Wm. P Shapp
Jere Cranmer
Henry Mandeville
Samuel York
Wm. Lee
John W. Clack
Wm. Toles
Geo. Lawrence
Archi. McNeal
Justus Willcox
Finley Grant
David Everitt
Henry Ramey &
John Caesar

20

Captain Secord
Lt. Rice
William Rice
Wm. Peter Secord
Roe

George Wood
James Stokes
Frederick Ef eland
Henry House
William Gregory
William Willcox
David Brush
James Browne
John Marlatt



These were all at Ross's by
the 21st but hearing that



past 10 in the morning of



the Enemy had retreated & that Lt. Goi. Burwell's party
was dismissed they returned to their homes.



Captain Secord got the intelligence by mere chance on the
morng. of the 21st. He however spread the alarm im-
mediately and arrived at Mr. Rapeljes with these men at
12 o'clock.



14

20

8

7

10

59



2OO



ROYAL SOCIETY OF CADADA



Periods of Service for allowances due to the Militia Officers of
the first Middlesex Kegt. actually on duty in the District of London
between the 28th of June 1812 and the 24th day of Dec. 1814 both
days inclusive.



Rank


Names


Periods of Service.
From To


Month.


Colol.


Thomas Talbot... .


28th June


1812


24th Dec.


1814


29 27/30


Lieut. Colol.


Mahlon Burwell... .


10 July


.12


10 Augt.


.12]








25 Augt.


.13


24 Sept.


.13 \


6 22/30






25 March


.14


16 Augt.


.14 J




Capt.


David Secord


4 Augt.


.12


20 Augt.


.12








23 Oct.


u


23 Dec.










15 Feby.


.13


12 March


.13








25 Jany.


.14


24 Feb.


.14


8 16/30






25 May


"


24 July


a








25 Augt.


"


24 Sept.


u








25 Oct.


,


24 Nov.


u




Capt.


Daniel Springer


2 Augt.


.12


18 Augt.


.12








13 Sept.





19 Sept.


u








25 Oct.


u


23 Dec.


u








2 Feby.


. 13


12 March


.13


9 5/30






25 July


"


24 Sept.


"








25 May


.14


24 July


.14








25 Oct.


"


24 Nov.







Capt.


Leslie Patterson. .


10 July
25 July


.12
.13


5 Augt.
24 Dec.


121
.14/


17 22/30


Capt.


Oilman Wilson ....


10 July


.12


24 July


.12]


-






11 Sept.


a


20 Sept.


" 1








25 Aug.


.13


24 Sept.


.13 1


4 25/30






25 May


.14


24 July


.14








25 Oct.


u


24 Nov.


ff J




Capt.


Daniel Rapelji


25 May


u


24 Nov.


((


6


Lieut.


William Bird


30 July


.12


19 Sept..


.12








25 Oct.





23 Dec.


"








2 Feby.


.13


12 March


.13


8 17/30






9 Jany.


.14


24 Janv.


.14








25 May


a


24 July


a








25 Oct.


.


24 Nov.


a




Lieut.


Moses Rice


10 July


.12


20 Augt.


.12








15 Feby.


.13


12 March


!l3








25 Augt.


u


24 Sept.





7 1/30






25 Nov.


u


24 Dec.


u








25 May


.14


24 July


.14








25 Oct.


u


24 Nov.


it




Lieut,


William Saxton,. . .


23 Oct.


.12


8 Jany.


.13]








15 Feby.


.13


12 March


"


10 11/30






19 April


u


24 May


"








25 May


.14


24 Nov.


.14





[COYNE]



THE TALBOT PAPERS



2O1



Rank


Names




From


Periods of Service.
To


Month.


Lieut.


Saml. Axford


15
25


Feby.

Augt.


.13

u


12
24


March
Sept.


1 " 3 }


1


20/30




Ensign


Joseph Defield


25


Augt.


u


24


Sept.


131


7








25


May


.14


24


Nov.


14 /


i




Ensign


Benjn. Wilson ....


10


July


.12


26


July


12










11


Sept.


u


20


Sept.


"










23


Oct.


u


23


Dec.


"


10


28/30






25


May


.15


24


Aug.


13










25


May


.14


24


Nov.


14.






Adjt.


James Nevill ....


25


April


H


24


Nov.


" \






Qr. Mr.


Sylvanus Reynolds


25


May





24


July


" }






Lieut. Nict


ola Lvtlp


25


March


.14


24


Dec.


14


9




Ensign Samuel Harris


4
24


Aug.
Oct.


1812


20
23


Aug. 1812 \
Dec. " /


2


17/30


Ensign


Daniel Mclntire.. . .


25


Aug.


.13


24


Sept.


.13


1




Ensign


Prideaux Girty. . . .


25


Mar.


14


24


Oct.


.04


7





Periods of Service for allowances due to the Non-Commissioned
Officers and privates of the first Regiment Middlesex Militia actually
on duty in the District of London between the 30th day of June 1812,
and the 24th day of December 1814, both days inclusive.



No. of Non-Commissioned
Officers and Privates
on duty.


Periods.
From To


16


30 June 1812
25 July
25 Aug.
25 Sept. "
25 Oct.
25 Nov. "
25 Dec.
25 Jany. 1813
25 Febv. "
25 March "
25 April "
25 May
25 June
25 July
25 Aug.
25 Sept. "
25 Oct.
25 Nov.
25 Dec . "
25 Janv. 1814
25 Feby. "
25 March "
25 April "
25 May
25 June
25 July
25 Aug. "
25 Sept. "
25 Oct.
25 Nov.


24 July 1812
24 Aug.
24 Sept. "
24 Oct. *
24 Nov. "
24 Dec. "
24 Jany. 1813
24 Feby. "
24 March "
24 April "
24 May "
24 June
24 July "
24 Aug.
24 Sept. "
24 Oct. "
24 Nov.
24 Dec. "
24 Jany. 1814
24 Feby. *
24 March "
24 April "
24 May "
24 June
24 July
24 Aug. "
24 Sept. "
24 Oct. "
24 Nov. "
24 Dec. "


16


10


10


84


64


64


15


15


15


21


20


20


20


21


22


44


22


22


54


22


22


22


172


172


44


64


45


58


34



2O2



ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA



Periods of Service for Allowances due to the Militia Officers of
the first Norfolk Eegiment actually on duty in the District of London,
between the 13th July 1812 and the 24th day of December 1814, both
days inclusive.



Rank


Names


Periocfs of Service.
From To


Months.


Lieut. Col.

u

Major


Joseph Ryerson
William D. Bowen


25 Sept. 1813
25 April 181-4
25 Aug. 1814
25 July 1812
13 April 1813
25 April 1814
25 Aug. 1814


24th Oct. 1813]
24th July 1814 \
24th Nov. 1814 J
24 Dec. 1812 ]
24 Oct. 1813 1
24 July 1814 [
24 Nov. 1814 J


7
17 12/30


Capt.


John Bostwick ....


13 July 1812
20 July 1812
15 Feb. 1813
21 April 1813
7 Nov. 1813
25 April 1814
14 Sept. 1814


16 July 1812
20 Dec. 1812
14 March 1813
24 Oct. 1813
24 Nov. 1813
31 July 1814
24 Dec. 1814 .


19 4/30


Capt.
Capt.


Daniel McCall
Oliver Mabee


3 Sept. 1812
25 Sept. 1813
7 Nov. 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814

25 Sept. 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


11 Jan. 1813
28 Oct. 1813
24 Nov. 1813
24 Aug. 1814
24 Nov. 1814 .

24 Oct. 1813 ]
24 July 1814 \
24 Nov. 1814 j


11
5




Capt.


Duncan McCall ....


18 June 1813
25 Sept. 1813
3 Nov. 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


21 July 1813 '
28 Oct. 1813
17 Nov. 1813
31 July 1814
24 Nov. 1814


7


Capt.


John Backhouse. .


25 Sept. 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


24 Oct. 1813 ]
24 July 1814 \
24 Nov. 1814 j


5


Capt.


James Mitchell


17 Aug. 1812
25 Sept. 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


31 Aug. 1812 ]
2 Nov. 1813
1 Aug. 1814 f
24 Nov. 1814 J


6


Lieut.


George Ryerson... .


13 July 1812
21 Oct. 1812


24 Sept. 18121
24 May 1813 J


9 16/30


Lieut.


George Rolph


30 June 1812
25 July 1812
21 Oct. 1812
31 Dec. 1812
21 April 1813


5 July 1812
24 Sept. 1812
20 Dec. 1812
24 Feb. 1813
24 Nov. 1814 J


13 4/30




Lieut.


William Smith


22 July 1812
25 Oct. 1814


4 Aug. 1812 \
24 Nov. 1814 /


1 14/30



[COYNE]



THE TALBOT PAPERS



203



Rank



Names



From



Periods of Service.
To



Months.



Lieut.
Lieut.


William Dill X. . . .
John Dedrick.


25 Sept. 1813
25 April 1814

25 Sept 1813


28 Oct. 1813 1
24 July 1814 J

24 Oct. 1813 ]


4 4/30






25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


24 July 1814 [
24 Nov. 1814 J


5


Ensign


James McCall


13 July 1812
25 Feb. 1813
7 Nov. 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


1 Sept. 1812'
24 March 1813
24 Nov. 1813
24 Julv 1814
24 Nov. 1814


6 8/30


Ensign
Lieut.

Ensign


Samuel Ryerson. . .
Samuel Ryerson. . .

Jacob Potts


1 17 Aug. 1812
21 Oct. 1812
15 Feb. 1813
25 Sept. 1813
25 April 1814
14 Aug. 1814
25 Oct. 1814

31 Aug. 1812


31 Aug. 1812 '
11 Janv. 1813
14 March 1813
24 Oct. 1813
24 July 1814
21 Aug. 1814
24 Nov. 1814 .

12 Sept. 18121


9 20/30


Lieut.


Jacob Potts


25 Sept. 1813


2 Nov. 1813








7 Nov. 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


24 Nov. 1813
31 July 1814
24 Nov. 1814 .


5 8/30


Ensign


Aquilla Walsh ....


25 Sept. 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


24 Oct. 1813 ]
24 July 1814 \
24 Nov. 1814 J


5


Ensign


Francis Glover


13 July 1812
31 July 1812
11 Sept. 1812
25 Sept, 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


16 July 1812
8 Aug. 1812
16 Sept, 1812
28 Oct 1813
24 July 1814
24 Nov. 1814 J


5 23/30


Ensign


Remain Rolph . . .


25 Sept. 1813
25 April 1814
25 Aug. 1814
25 Oct. 1814


2 Nov. 1813 1
1 Aug. 1814 l
24 Sept. 1814 [
24 Nov. 1814 J


6 17/30


Ensign


Mathew Tisdale.. . .


22 Aug. 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


24 Oct. 1813 "1
24 July 1814 !>
24 Nov. 1814 J


6 3/30


Ensign

88


Thomas Backhouse


20 Aug. 1812
21 Oct. 1812
15 Feb. 1813
25 Sept. 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


30 Aug. 1812
11 Jan. 1813
14 March 1813
24 Oct. 1813 '
24 July 1814
24 Nov. 1814 .


9 3/30


Adjt.


Saml. Tisdale


25 Oct. 1814


24 Dec. 1814


2


Qr. Mr.


Francis L. Walsh. .


25 Sept/ 1813
25 April 1814
25 Oct. 1814


24 Oct. 1813 }
24 July 1814 \
24 Nov. 1814 J


5



2O4



ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA



Periods of Service for Allowances due to the Non-Commissioned
Officers and Privates of the first Regiment of Norfolk Militia actually
on duty in the District of London between the 30th day of June 1812,
and the 24th day of December 1814, both days inclusive.



No. of Non-Commisioned
Officers and Privates
on Duty.


Periods.
From To


34


30 June 1812
20 July 1812
25 Aug. 1812
25 Sept. 1812
25 Oct. 1812
25 Nov. 1812
25 Dec. 1812
25 Jan. 1813
25 Feb. 1813
25 March 1813
25 April 1813
25 May 1813
25 June 1813
25 July 1813
25 Aug. 1813
25 Sept. 1813
25 Oct. 1813
25 Nov. 1813
25 Dec. 1813
25 Jan. 1814
25 Feb. 1814
25 March 1814
25 April 1814
25 May 1814
25 June 1814
25 July 1814
25 Aug. 1814
25 Sept. 1814
25 Oct. 1814
25 Nov. 1814


24 July 1812
24 Aug 1812
24 Sept. 1812
24 Oct. 1812
24 Nov. 1812
24 Dec. 1812
24 Jan. 1813
24 Feb. 1813
24 March 1813
24 April 1813
24 May 1813
24 June 1813
24 July 1813
24 Aug. 1813
24 Sept. 1813
24 Oct. 1813
24 Nov. 1813
24 Dec. 1813
24 Jan. 1814
24 Feb. 1814
24 March 1814
24 April 1814
24 May 1814
24 June 1814
24 July 1814
24 Aug. 1814
24 Sept. 1814
24 Oct. 1814
24 Nov. 1814
24 Dec. 1814


74


64


32


64


54


25


34


30


12


47


42


42


42


34


148


181


181


27


22


22


22


200


200


200


47


39


39


205


27



THE TALBOT PAPERS



2OS



[COYNE]

Periods of Service for Allowances due to the Militia Officers of the
second Norfolk Eegiment actually on duty in the District of London,
between the 28th day of June 1812 and the 24th day of December 1814,
both days inclusive.



Rank.


Names.


Periods of Service.
From To


Months.


Major


George C. Salmon..


13
25


July

Sept.


1812
.13


24
24


Sept.

Nov.


1812]
.13 \


12


12/3






25


April


.14


24


Dec.


-14J






Capt.


Samuel Ryerse


21
25


Oct.

Sept.


.12
.13


23

2


Dec.
Nov.


.12]
.13


6


11/30






25


April


.14


24


July


14J






flanf-


Winiam Park . .


25


May


.13


24


June


.13






V/flMFVi




22


Aug.




2


Nov.


a










7


Nov.


u


24


Dec.


u










25


Jan.


.14


24


Feby.


.14


10








25


April


"


24


Aug.


"










25


Oct.


"


24


Nov.


" J






Capt.


William Drake


25
25


April
Oct.


a


24
24


July
Nov.


;; i


4




Capt.


William McCrackin


13


July


.12


24


Sept,


. 12]










14


Febv.


.13


24


Feby.


.13










25


Sept.


"


24


Oct.


"


11


11/30






7


Nov.


"


24


Feby.


.14|










25


April


.14


24


Aug.


" J






Capt.


William Robinson..


25


Sept.


.13


2


Nov.


.13]










25


April


.14


24


July


.14 [


5


9/30






25


Oct.


"


24


Nov.


. j






Capt.


Henry Medcalf. . . .


2


Jany.


.14


24


Dec.


.14


11


23/30


Pay Master


Daniel Ross


28


June


.12


24


Sept.


.13


14


26/30


a it


John Rolph


25


Sept.


.13


24


Dec.


.14


15




Lieut.


Jonathan Austin.. .


21


Oct.


.12


21


Dec.


.12










25


Sept.


.12


24


Oct.


.13










7


Nov.


"


24


Dec.


" .


14


11/30






25


Jan.


.14


24


Feby.


.14










3


Mar.


"


24.


Nov.


"






Capt.


Nathaniel White,. .


7
21


July
Oct.


.12


8
21


Sept.
Dec.


:*}


4


3/30


Lieut


Titus Williams


13


July


.12


24


Sept.


" 1










21


Oct.


.12


17


June


.13


17


20/30






15


May


.14


24


Dec.


-14J






Lieut.


William Robinson..


1


July


.12


14


July


.12




14/30


Lieut.


Henry Medcalf. . . .


7


May


.13


17


May


.13 ]










6


June


"


2


Nov.


7


6/30






7


Nov.




2


Jan.


.14 J







206



ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA



Rank.


Names.


Periods of Service.
From To


Months.


Lieut.


Isaac Gilbert . .


25
7
25


Sept.
Nov.
April


.14


24
24
24


Oct.

Nov.
Aug.


.131
,18 I

.14]


6 8/30








25


Oct.


"


24


Nov.


" J




Lieut.


Beni Mead .


30
14


June
Sept.


.12


5
15


July

Sept.


. 12










14


Feby.


.13


12


March


.13








25


Sept.


"


2


Nov.


"


8 2/30






7


Nov.


"


24


Nov.


"








25


April


.14


24


Aug.


.14








25


Oct.


"


24


Nov.


"




Lieut.


McFarlan Wilson . .


25
25
25


Sept.
Jany.
April


.13
.14


2
24
24


Nov.
Feby.
Aug.


1.31

:\


7 8/30






25


Oct.


"


24


Nov.


" J




Capt.


Abraham A. Rapilji


22
19


Oct.
April


.12
.13


6
24


April
May


:iS}


6 22/30


Ensign


Isaac Gilbert .


13
20


July
July


.12
a


16
15


July
Sept.


1 2 J


7 18/30








21


Oct.


u


6


April


.13J




Ensign


McFarlane Wilson..


. 1
21


Sept.
Oct.


u


12
23


Sept.
Dec.


'.?}


2 15/30


Ensign


Jacob Lemon . . .


25

7


Sept.
Nov.


.13


2
24


Nov.
Nov.


'"1


697/^ft








25


April


.14


24


Aug.


I 4 ]


I /OU






25


Oct.


a


24


Nov.






Ensign


Abraham Messaccar


25


Sept.


.13


2


Nov.


.131








25


April


.14


24


July


.14)


5 9/30






25


Oct.




24


Nov.


" J




Ensign


Thomas Francis . . .


25


April


u


24


July


1

" "I








25


Aug.


"


13


Sept.




5 18/30






27


Sept.


"


24


Nov.


" I




Ensign


John Conrod


25


April





24


Dec.





7


Ensign


James McQueen. . .


25


April


*


24


Nov.


"


6


Ensign


Denis Shoaff


25


April


"


24


Aug.


" I








25


Oct.





24


Nov.


" J




Lieut.


William Gordon . . .


13


July


.12


5


Sept,


.12]








21


Oct.


u


21


Dec.


" I


1 Q O /Qfl






1


Jany.


.13


7


March


.13


IS O/oU






19


April


u


24


Sept.


" J




Adjt.


William Gordon . . .


25


Sept.


"


2


Nov.


" 1








7


Nov.


"


24


Nov.


"


9 26/30






25


April


.14


24


Dec.


14J




Ensign


George Ryerse


25


Oct.


u


24


Nov.





1


Qr. Mr.


Albert Berdan


4


July


.12


30


July


-121








25


Sept.


.13


2


Nov.


.13


. 94 /on






7


Nov.


a


24


Nov.


" f


'






25


Dec.


u


24


Feby


14J





[COYNE]



THE TALBOT PAPERS



207



Periods of Service for Allowances due to the jSTon-Commissioned
Officers and Privates of the Second Eegiment of Norfolk Militia actu-
ally on duty in the District of London between the 30th June 1812
and the 24th day of December 1814, both days inclusive.



No. of Non-Commissioned
Officers and Privates
on Duty.


Periods.
From To


45


30 June
25 July
25 Aug.
25 Sept.
25 Oct.
25 Nov.
25 Dec.
25 Jany.
25 Feby.
25 March
25 April
25 May
25 June
25 July
25 Aug.
25 Sept.
25 Oct.
25 Nov.
25 Dec.
25 Jany.
25 Feby.
25 March
25 April
25 May
25 June
25 July
25 Aug.
25 Sept.
25 Oct.
25 Nov.


1812
12
12
12
12
12
12
13
13
13
13
13
13
13
13
13
13
1813

u

1814

u
u

it
u
u
it
11
ti


24 July
24 Aug.
24 Sept.
24 Oct.
24 Nov.
24 Dec.
24 Jany.
24 Feby.
24 March
24 April
24 May
24 June
24 July
24 Aug.
24 Sept.
24 Oct.
24 Nov.
24 Dec.
24 Jany.
24 Feby.
24 March
24 April
24 May
24 June
24 July
24 Aug.
24 Sept.
24 Oct.
24 Nov.
24 Dec.


1812
12
12
12
12
12
13
13
13
13
13
13
13
13
13
13
13
1813

1814

it

u
u

11
u
u
u
u
u
it
(I


80


74


16


69


42





16


16


12


50


50


21


26


53


181


181


115


27


32


a


13


171


171


171


79


83


47


184


43





208



ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA



We the undersigned Certify upon Honor
tha the number of Horses set opposite our
names were effective in our possession and
keeping during the Periods stated.





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PERIODS


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NAMES




C. u" bC CO *03 C8 1

ii i i I I fill in



[COYNE] THE TALBOT PAPERS 2O9

Lieut. Col. Coffin to Talbot.

Head Quarters, York

Feby. 14 1815.
Circular
Sir

I have the Honor of enclosing you Twenty Printed Forms for
Lodging Money and Barrack Allowances conformable to the Militia Gen-
eral orders of the 28th December last and request you will have the
goodness to acknowledge the receipt of the same 1 have

the Honor to be Sir

Your most obedient

humble Servant
(signed) N. COFFIN Lieut. Co.

D. A. G. of Militia
Officer Comg.

1st Eeg. Middlesex Militia
Certified

J. CLARK

A. A. G. M.



Adj. Gen. Foster to Talbot.

Head Quarters, York,

Feby. 14th 1815.
Sir

It appearing by Eeturns from Turkey Point, that a number of
Militia of the London District have been for some time past called out
on duty there, without the knowledge or sanction of His Honor, The
President, I am commanded by him to transmit to you the accompany-
ing Copy of Militia General Orders of the 2nd. of December last,
together with a Copy of District General Orders of the 1st of the
same month ; and to direct, that you be pleased to call upon the Officers
concerned for a full and specific explanation of their conduct, in the
total disregard which they have evinced to paragraphs N"o. 2 and No. 3
of the former.

The President approves of Three Officers, (either Subalterns, or
one a Captain and two Subalterns) Four Sergeants, and Eighty-eight
Rank and File, being called out for duty at Turkey Point, until fur-
Sec. II., 1907. 14.



21O ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

ther Orders; and His Honor sanctions those already employed on this
duty receiving the usual Pay and allowances; feeling satisfied, as he
does, that the neglect of his Orders originated in a laudable motive,
a zeal for His Majesty's Service.

I have the honor to be

Sir,
Your most obedient

humble servant,

C. FOSTER
Adjt. Genl. of Militia.

P.S. I had nearly omitted to mention, that it is Lieutenant Gen-
eral Drummond's desire, the Militia be called out in proportion to the
strength of each Corps, not pressing more heavily on one Regiment
than another, and that Volunteers be always employed if possible.

C. F.
A. G. M.

Colonel Talbot

Comg. London District of Militia
&c. &c. &c.



NOTE BY THE EDITOR: The papers subsequent to the War of 1812-1815
will appear in the Transactions for 1908.






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