pany a conquest were imposed upon them. They passed from a reign of absolute subjection under the Bourbons to the free and untrammelled life of a constitutional government.
In return for these unexpected advantages, which they thoroughly appreciated, the French showed themselves true to their new oath of allegiance, and perfect tranquillity reigned in the country. Within three years the British troops had returned to Europe. Then broke out Pontiac's war. The Canadian Militia enrolled themselves eagerly, and fought under the British flag against their ancient allies, the Western tribes.
A little later the English Colonies attempted to draw the Canadians into the celebrated protest against the Imperial taxes, but they refused to listen to the tempters.
In 1775, when the English troops no longer occupied Lower Canada, the American Army invaded the province, and trapped the Governor-General in Montreal. He was saved by three Canadians—Bouchette, Lanaudière, and Nivervelle—who guided him through the enemy's lines and down the river to Quebec, a distance of 180 miles.
On his arrival there he at once organized the militia, raised with their aid the siege of Montreal, and finally drove the Americans back across the frontier.
The Catholic clergy from the beginning openly pronounced themselves in favour of the British Crown. The seigneurs, or landed gentry, of the province took similar ground, so that there was but one opinion among all classes in this matter.
It must also be remembered that Quebec, or Lower Canada, received no immigration from the British Isles, and that the mass of the population was necessarily composed of Canadians, former subjects of France.
The victories of Nelson were celebrated here with enthusiasm. It was clearly recognised by the French-Canadians that this great sailor protected the mouths of the St. Lawrence, and guarded our commerce on the
