The inhabitants--or _habitans_, as the French Canadians are usually
termed--are an amiable, hospitable, simple people, kind in manner, and
generous in disposition. The women are lively and agreeable, and as
fond of dress in Quebec as in other civilized places. They are pretty
in early youth in the Lower Province, but lose their complexions sooner
than the English ladies, owing, perhaps, to the rigour of the climate.*
However, they possess charms superior to beauty, and seem to retain the
affections of their husbands to the last hour of their lives. [* Mac
Taggart's "Three Years' Residence in Canada."]

Short as was my stay in Quebec, I could not leave without regret the
hospitable city where I had received from strangers such a warm
welcome. I have never visited the Lower Province since; but my
remembrance of its old capital is still as agreeable as it is distinct.
The next day our brig was taken in tow by the fine steam-boat, the
"Richelieu de Chambly," and with a leading wind and tide in our favour
we proceeded at a rapid rate up the river.

I shall not attempt to describe the charming scenery of this most
beautiful of all rivers, which has already been so amply described by
abler writers. I was delighted with everything I saw; but nothing
occurred worthy of narration.

The next day saw us safely moored in the port of Montreal, just forty-
five days from our departure from the London Docks. Montreal is a
handsome town, well situated, and must eventually become the most
important city in British North America. The river here is very broad.
The Lachine rapids commence immediately above the town, which are an
impediment to the navigation, now obviated by a canal terminating at