ir
course to the prevailing opinions. No ministry can have time to
bring their measures before the public to produce any general
impression; and no ministry can have confidence in the ultimate
success of the wisest measures. In short, they will have no chance
to exercise their ability, with a view of commanding success.
Whereas, were a new election to take place (on the declaration by
the Governor-General, that from the difficulty he experienced in
making up a ministry which would command a majority of the present
House, in conformity to the principles he avowed), the
Governor-General could appeal to the people to return a
representation from which he could select a Council possessing
their confidence. Such an appeal would not be inconsistent with his
former declarations, which must have been predicated on his
obtaining a Council which would command a majority. Under such
circumstances members would feel very naturally a much greater
anxiety in sustaining any ministry with a chance of four years to
test their measures, than as many days, as in the present instance.
As far as I am individually concerned, even in that case, I could
not accept of office unless I succeeded in arranging my own
personal concerns, which I hope to effect during the season.

I hear that in this district a strong feeling prevails in favour of
the late ministry, who resigned, as they believe, to support the
principle of responsible government; and they cannot understand
that the Governor-General adheres to the same. This impression is
natural; and it takes a long time to remove error. No man doubts
the motives of Mr. Baldwin; none other of the administration is
named, or possesses the least weight. I have not moved about or
corresponded with a single member of the House, and I shall remain
as passive as possible.

I fully agree with you, that with the present Governor-General a
fair opportunity offers to carry out useful projects; nay more, I
am sure that one half of the present revenue now wasted, could be
saved (not less than L100,000) for useful objects; but I cannot at
present assist in carrying it into effect, which you cannot regret
more than I do.

In a note received from Mr. Civil Secretary Higginson, dated 10th April,
he gave Dr. Ryerson the reasons for the unexpe