ed between the colonists and the local Government; and it may
perhaps, without exaggeration, be affirmed, that the spirit of
enterprise which has proceeded from Jamaica during the past two years
has enabled the British West Indian colonies to endure, with
comparative fortitude, apprehensions and difficulties which might
otherwise have depressed them beyond measure. Circumstances have,
however, occurred since my arrival in the colony, unconnected with
public affairs, which have materially affected my views in life, and
which made me contemplate with much repugnance the prospect of an
indefinitely prolonged sojourn in this place. Without dwelling at any
greater length on these painful topics, I venture to trust that you
will acquit me of undue presumption when I assure you, that in my
present forlorn and isolated position, nothing enables me to persevere
in the discharge of my duties, except the hope that my humble services
may earn for me your confidence and the approbation of my Sovereign,
and prove not altogether unprofitable to the community over whose
interests I am appointed to watch.

He remained, however, at his post for more than a year longer, and quitted
it in the spring of 1846 on leave of absence, with the understanding that
he should not be required to return to Jamaica.

[Sidenote: Appointment to Canada.]

During nearly the whole period of his government the seals of the Colonial
Office had been held by Lord Stanley, to whom he owed his appointment; and
at the break-up of the Tory party, in the beginning of 1846, they passed
into the hands of his old schoolfellow and college friend, Mr. Gladstone.
But he had scarcely arrived in England when a new Secretary arose in the
person of Lord Grey, to whom he was unknown except by reputation. It is
all the more creditable to both parties that, in spite of their political
differences, Lord Grey should first have endeavoured to induce him, on
public grounds alone, to retain the government of Jamaica, with the
promise of his unreserved confidence and most cordial support; and shortly
afterwards, should have offered to him the still more important post of
Governor-General of British North America. 'I believe,' wrote his
Lordship, in making the offer, 'that it would be difficult to point out
any situation in which great talents would find more scope for useful
exertion, or are more wanted at this moment, an