er, like all the rest, must have his fun when he comes back, and
being a very wild fellow, he is often in scrapes when he has drunk too
much, so that he is occasionally put into prison for being riotous; but
I know him well, he has been with me surveying for months, and when he
is on service, a more steady, active, and brave man I do not know."
"I believe you are right in recommending him," observed the Governor,
"he will not be sorry to get out of the gaol, and I have no doubt but
that he will conduct himself well if he once agrees to take your
service, Mr. Campbell, for one or two years. As for the Canadians, they
are very harmless, but at the same time very useful. There are
exceptions, no doubt; but their general character is any thing but that
of activity and courage. As I said before, you will require stout
hearts, and Martin Super is one, that is certain. Perhaps you can
arrange this for Mr. Campbell?"
The Surveyor-General promised to do so; shortly after which, Mr.
Campbell, with many thanks, took his leave of the Governor.
Mr. Campbell, who had gained every possible information relative to what
would be most necessary for him to take with him, was actively employed
for a fortnight in making his purchases. During this time much attention
was shown to them both by the English and French residents at Quebec.
Alfred, whose wound was now nearly healed, was as active as usual, and
Henry was of great assistance to his father in taking inventories and
making out lists, etc. Nor were Mrs. Campbell and the two girls
unemployed; they had purchased the coarse manufactures of the country,
and were very busy making dresses for themselves and for the children.
Mr. Campbell had been one morning at Mr. Farquhar's, the merchant's, to
make inquiries about a conveyance up to his new purchase (for he had
concluded his arrangements with the Surveyor-General), when the Governor
sent a message by one of his aides-de-camp, to say that it was his
intention in the course of ten days to send a detachment of soldiers up
to Fort Frontignac--news having been received that the garrison was
weakened by a fever which had broken out; and that if Mr. Campbell would
like to avail himself of the opportunity, he and his family, and all his
luggage, should go under the escort of the officer and troops. The offer
was of course joyfully accepted, and on Mr. Campbell's calling upon the
Governor to return his thanks, the latter told him that there wo
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