The Rise of Canada, from Barbarism to Wealth and Civilisation. Volume 1Roger, Charles
History
The Rise of Canada, from Barbarism to Wealth and Civilisation. Volume 1
Roger, Charles
Canada -- History
hundred men, ashamed to be known at home, in connection with a retreat
so unlooked for and so degrading, deserted to the enemy. And it is
little to be wondered at, that murmurs in connection with the name of
Prevost and Plattsburgh, were long, loud, and deep. Sir George felt the
weight of public opinion and was crushed under it. He resigned the
government of Canada and demanded a Court Martial, but he had a judge
within himself, from whom he could not escape, and whose judgment
weighed upon "a mind diseased," in the broad noonday and at the
midnight hour, with such overpowering weight that the nervous system
became relaxed, and death at last relieved a man, who, only that he
wanted decision of purpose, was amiable, kind, well intentioned, and
honest, of a load of grief, before even the sentence of a Court Martial
could intervene to ameliorate his sorrows. It is extremely to be
regretted indeed that so excellent a Civil Governor should have been so
indifferent a military commander. But, entirely different
qualifications are required in the civilian and in the soldier. It is
indeed on record that the Great Duke, who was the idol of the British
people as a soldier, was the reverse of being popular as a statesman.
He was ever clear-headed and sensible; but his will would never bend to
that of the many. Desirous of human applause, he could not court it,
though he was yet vain of his celebrity, and studied to be celebrated,
knowing the value that attaches to position and to fame. Sir George
Prevost was a man of exactly an opposite disposition to that of the
Great Duke. To be great, he flattered little prejudices and weak
conceits. He never forced any measure or any opinion down another
person's throat. He was content to retain his own opinion and ever
doubted its correctness. Personally, he was brave, but he was ever
apprehensive.
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