n executing my commissions: the
different articles arrived in the very best order, with the
exception of the cocked hat, which has not been received--a
most distressing circumstance, as, from the enormity of my
head[26], I find the utmost difficulty in getting a substitute
in this country.

I proposed writing to you early to-morrow, but Sir James
having this instant intimated his intention of sending me
upwards immediately, I avail myself of an hour's leisure to do
that hastily which I would gladly have done quietly, and,
consequently, more fully. If I am to remain in this country, I
care little where I am placed; but going up, as I do now,
without knowing whether I am to stay or return, is
particularly awkward, and interferes materially in all my
future arrangements: perhaps I shall be able to get the point
settled before I commence my journey.

Every thing here remains in a state of perfect quietness. It
is but too evident that the Canadians generally are becoming
daily more anxious to get rid of the English. This they cannot
effect unless a French force come to their aid, and I do not
think that Bonaparte would risk the loss of a fleet and army
for the chance of getting possession of the country. What
infatuation! No people had ever more cause to rejoice at their
fate; but they are not singular, as all mankind seems prone to
change, however disadvantageous or productive of confusion.

Savery forwarded your pamphlet to me. You have taken a very
proper view of the political dissensions which at this moment
disgrace England. Those to whom I have allowed a perusal, and
who are infinitely better judges than I can pretend to be,
speak of the purity of the language in terms of high
approbation. You have happily suited the style to the matter.
Several copies have, within a few days, been in circulation
here. Savery speaks of a letter you received, in consequence,
from Lord Melville. I hope you will not fail in sending me a
copy, as I am all anxiety for your literary fame. As you
differ in sentiment from the Edinburgh Review, I hope that you
have made up your mind to an unmerciful lashing.

I do not see the smallest prospect of my getting away from
here, as the disposition manifested by the Canadians will
occasion a large military force to be kept in the country, and