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PREFACE.

CANADA

ANADA of late years, has been an object of such enquiry, that a knowledge of the early settlement of the

Colony is eagerly desired by all.

the dominion of France, several

While it was under

histories were pub

lished, but none have given a narrative of events subsequent to the period when Charlevoix finished his History. The present work will embrace the occurrences down to the period when he ended, and also, those events that took place between that period and the Peace of one thousand seven hundred and sixty-three.

As to this work, I can say with truth, that I have collected my Materials from the most authentic Docu

ments. The Colony Records, the Jesuits' Journals, and Charlevoix's History, have furnished me with a mass

of valuable information. From these, and other authentic sources, I have formed the present Compilation; and, I can honestly declare, that in the whole distribution of the matter, I have faithfully detailed every occurrence, without the least partiality or prejudice.

WHEN I began this Narrative (it does not deserve the name of a History) I intended it only for my private use: I well knew the detail of the occurrences of an inconsiderable Colony, so long struggling in its birth, could afford but little amusement to Gentlemen of Taste, and under this impression, I had relinquished all idea of publishing it. The solicitations of my Friends at length prevailed, and I consented to put this Narrative to the Press, in the hope, that it might be serviceable to the Public, by giving, as it does, a true and faithful account of a Colony daily augmenting in Wealth, Prosperity and Happiness now fortunately placed under the dominion of Great Britain, and with a Constitution framed after her own-a Constitution which has long been the envy and admiration of the World; and by its happy combinations in establishing and assigning to its various

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