[Sidenote:  Relations with the United States.]

No sketch of a Governor’s life in Canada would be complete which did not contain some account of his relations with the great neighbouring republic.

We have seen that, at the beginning of his government, Lord Elgin’s cares were increased by threats, and more than threats, of interference on the part of ‘sympathisers’ from some of the American States; and that he looked upon the likelihood of lawless inroad, not to speak of the possibility of lawful war, as affording solid reason for England’s maintaining a body of troops in the Colony.  But it must not be supposed that his attitude towards the Government or people of the States was one of jealousy or hostility.  The loyal friendliness of the Government in repressing the intemperate sympathies of certain of its citizens, he cordially acknowledged; and with the people he did his utmost to encourage the freest and friendliest intercourse, social and commercial, not only in order that the inhabitants of the two countries might provoke one another to increased activity in the good work of civilisation, but also that they might know and understand one another; and that he might have in the public opinion of the United States that intelligent support which he despaired of finding in England, owing to the strange ignorance and indifference which so unfortunately prevails there on all colonial subjects.

The following letters refer to some of the occasion on which mutual civilities were interchanged: 

    To Mr. Crampton, British Minister at Washington.

    Montreal, May 21, 1849.

[Sidenote:  their loyal conduct in 1849.]

I am much indebted to you for your letter of the 10th, conveying an intimation of the intentions of the American Government with reference to improper interference on the part of American citizens in Canadian affairs, which is so honourable to General Taylor and his cabinet.  If I should receive any information leading me to believe that any such interference is contemplated, I shall not fail to communicate with you at once on the subject.  My impression is, that there is not at present much to be apprehended on that score; for although there is unhappily considerable excitement and irritation in Canada, the subject in dispute[8] is not one which is likely to conciliate much sympathy among our neighbours.  I do not, however, less highly appreciate the good feeling and cordiality evinced by the Executive Government of the United States.

* * * * *

    To the Earl Grey

    Toronto, June 14,1850.

[Sidenote:  Mutual Courtesies.]