Lady Rosamonds Secret | Page 7

gilded furniture was
arranged in stately profusion. Quaintly and gorgeously embroidered
silken draperies were festooned with graceful effect. Rare paintings
adorned the frescoed walls. Priceless cabinets, vases and statuary were
grouped with artistic hand. Turkey carpets of the most brilliant hues
covered the floor, while the flashing and almost dazzling light radiating
from the massive chandeliers, made the scene one of surpassing
grandeur--something almost incredible outside the lustre and
surroundings of a kingly residence. Such is a correct picture of old
Government House over half a century ago. Then it shone with true
chivalric glory. Now with its structure and surroundings a dream of the
past.
In the midst of her group sat Lady Douglas occupied in some fancy
netting, while each lady had some especial task. "Miss Cheenick," said
Her Ladyship, "will you be so kind as to assist Miss Mary in the
selection of suitable shades of silk for this piece of embroidery. You
will accompany her to-morrow after luncheon, as she is anxious to
commence." "It is to be hoped that we will meet with success as,
judging from the appearance of the stores in this city, there is not much

to select from," said Mary Douglas, "but, Miss Cheenick, only think, it
will be our first attempt at shopping in Fredericton." "How much better
and more convenient if there were exclusive dry goods stores as in
England," said Lady Rosamond. "It is rather amusing to see all kinds of
groceries and provisions on one side, and silks, satins and laces on the
other. Pardon me, mamma, if I use the expression of Mr. Howe,
'everything from a needle to an anchor.'" "Well, my child, you will
agree that both are useful," said Her Ladyship, "but I am doubtful
whether the last named article is to be obtained here."
At the close of these remarks, the gentlemen were received. Sir Howard,
true to his obligation, had found a seat beside his daughter Mary.
"Papa," she exclaimed, "my knight is true,--'A good knight and true.'"
"At Lady Douglas' suggestion, I am duly bound to disclose some views
upon New Brunswick and its capital. In the first place, I must plead
ignorance, from want of sufficient time to note the general aspect,
features and surroundings. This is a primitive soil, populated and toiled
by a primitive people. Agriculture is yet in its infancy, and no prospect
at hand for the furtherance of this important calling. Well wooded land,
fertile valley and pleasing variety, show that this should be the great
and only resource of this country. What facilities are afforded to the
farmer for the importation of produce, were this noble river to be
opened up with steam navigation. In a year hence, if my life be spared,
I shall be able to afford you some information on life in the back
settlements, and the means resorted to by the settlers. At present there
are only five roads in the whole Province; three of which you have seen,
as they lead from this city in different directions; the one to St. John;
also, that passing our door to Quebec; and the third which I shewed you
last week as leading to Miramichi. The fourth leads to St. Andrews, a
small seaport in the south-west; while the fifth leads to Halifax."
"Pardon me, Your Excellency, I could not help observing that the
condition of these roads pay small tribute to McAdam, or Telford,
being a rapid and sudden succession of up hill and down dale." "One
would need a vigorous constitution," returned Sir Howard, "to make a
practical test. People do not have much traffic upon these roads, from
the fact that the settlements are more numerous along the river, which

holds out more advantages."
"Papa," exclaimed Sir Howard's favourite daughter, "How much I
should like to accompany you on an expedition through the forests of
New Brunswick." "Perhaps you may, when the roads are more
accessible, when there will be established comfortable inns where one
can rest and be refreshed. None will press me to give any further report
of the country, when I make a guarantee to do so at some time in the
future, when there will be, I trust, good progress made."
"Many thanks, Your Excellency," said Mr. Howe, in response to Sir
Howard, and, "in behalf of the company, may I express a hope that
your wish be realized in the future of New Brunswick's history. May
this province yet rise in commercial prosperity and national wealth, and
may New Brunswick's sons yet assume their proud position as
Governors of the province." "Mr. Howe is growing eloquent,"
remarked Lady Rosamond, to Mr. Trevelyan.--"A conspiracy on foot,"
exclaimed Miss Douglas, glancing towards Lady Rosamond. "Now Mr.
Trevelyan will play his part," said Captain Douglas, with mock
solemnity.
The