There are, of course, many other things that might be mentioned in an introduction of this kind, and there is room especially for an extended reference to the great and wonderful changes that have been apparent in Manitoba, the North-West Territories, and British Columbia, since, in the natural order of things, those parts of Canada passed out of the direct control of the Company. The subject is so fascinating to me, having been connected with the Company for over sixty years, that the tendency is to go on and on. But the different details connected with it will doubtless be dealt with by Mr. Beckles Willson himself much better than would be possible in the limited time at my disposal, and I shall therefore content myself with stating, in conclusion, that I congratulate the author on the work he has undertaken, and trust that it will meet with the success it deserves. It cannot fail to be regarded as an interesting contribution to the history of Canada, and to show, what I firmly believe to be the case, that the work of the Hudson's Bay Company was for the advantage of the Empire. [Illustration: SIGNATURE OF LORD STRATHCONA AND MOUNT ROYAL.] LONDON, June 23rd, 1899. CONTENTS. PAGE. CHAPTER I.--1660-1667. Effect of the Restoration on Trade -- Adventurers at Whitehall -- The East India Company Monopoly -- English Interest in North America -- Prince Rupert's Claims -- The Fur Trade of Canada -- Aim of the Work. 17 CHAPTER II.--1659-1666. Groseilliers and Radisson -- Their Peregrinations in the North-West -- They Return to Quebec and Lay their Scheme before the Governor -- Repulsed by him they Proceed to New England -- And thence Sail for France, where they Endeavour to Interest M. Colbert. 23 CHAPTER III.--1667-1668. Prince Rupert -- His Character -- Serves through the Civil War -- His Naval Expedition in the West Indies -- Residence in France -- And ultimately in London -- He receives Groseilliers and introduces him to the King. 35 CHAPTER IV.--1668-1670. The Prince Visits the _Nonsuch_ -- Arrival in the Bay -- Previous Voyages of Exploration -- A Fort Commenced at Rupert's River -- Gillam's Return -- Dealing with the Nodwayes -- Satisfaction of the Company -- A Royal Charter granted. 44 CHAPTER V.--1668-1670. Danger Apprehended to French Dominion -- Intendant Talon -- Fur Trade Extended Westward -- News of the English Expedition Reaches Quebec -- Sovereign Rights in Question -- English Priority Established. 52 CHAPTER VI.--1671.