sed every bill required of them, among others one
authorizing the governor-general and three councillors to
imprison any one without assigning a cause. The state of the
country makes such a measure highly necessary. Sir James has
been very ill, and it is supposed that he cannot long survive
the fierce and frequent attacks of his disorder. His death,
whenever it comes, will be bewailed by all who possess the
feelings of Englishmen in this country. He appears determined
to keep me near his person, and I hardly know how to
accomplish my grand object of visiting England in opposition
to his wishes. You may well imagine the regret I feel in being
obliged to submit to a life of such complete idleness--but
fate will have it so.

We are all impatience and anxiety to learn the ultimate result
of the king's indisposition, and the movements of the
contending armies in Portugal. If we are to be governed by a
regent, I trust that ambition, jealousy, or party interests,
will not conspire to diminish or circumscribe his regal
powers. These are not times to slacken the reins.

Colonel Murray, 100th, went home last year, married, and
brought out a charming little creature, full of good sense and
spirit. They dined with me yesterday, and she appeared a
little dejected in consequence of an idle report of the
regiment being destined for the West Indies.

Care ought to be taken to get William Potenger introduced into
a quiet, well-behaved corps; the 49th would do very well, but
I am not partial to Canada for a young soldier; the regiment
has, however, been in it so long, that it cannot be continued
many years. Throw him into the sea rather than allow him to
join a wild Irish regiment.

This country is getting very populous and rich. Great
emigration from the States; Quakers especially come in
numbers, and bring with them large sums. Assure William of my
eternal esteem.

_Brigadier Brock to Sir James Craig, K. B_.

NIAGARA, February 27, 1811.

I have this day been honored by the receipt of your
excellency's letter, dated the 4th instant. The subject to
which it refers has occasioned serious reflection in my mind.
If unfortunately the Indians be determined to commit acts of
hostility in the spring, they are at too great a distance for
us to succeed in any effort we may be