Address from the Inhabitants of Halifax, p. 12.
To His Excellency Sir George Prevost, Bart. &c. &c. &c.
"Sir,
"Your Excellency intending shortly to leave this Province, the inhabitants of Halifax cannot omit expressing to you their unfeigned regret on the occasion, and, at the same time, testifying their gratitude for the many real benefits which the province has derived from your short administration of the government.
"We have often been induced to come forward to manifest our esteem for many valuable and respectable characters, who have filled high stations in this country, for it has been our good fortune to have had many men of tried worth at the head of the civil, naval, and military departments here; but believe us, Sir, we use not the language of flattery, when we say, that we have never felt more sincere regret, than for your departure from us.
"Equity has been the ruling principle of your administration, and the most unremitting attention to public business its invariable practice: your indefatigable zeal carried you into the most remote parts of the province, and you became early acquainted with our situation and our wants. The confidence with which you inspired the legislative body, induced them to provide ample supplies for the different branches of the public service. The wisdom with which they have been appropriated, equals the liberality with which they were granted, and must produce extensive and permanent benefits to the country at large.
"Your ears have been open to the petitioners of every class, and your ready attention to their wants and their claims, has left no cause for complaint. With the sentiments of affectionate and respectful regard which you have excited in our breasts—while we deplore our loss, we cannot but derive consolation from the justly merited honours that cause your removal.
"We consider your appointment to the supreme command of British North America, as an earnest of the blessing which His Majesty's subjects, on the western side of the Atlantic, are to enjoy under the government of the august personage, the anniversary of whose birth we this day assemble to commemorate. At this critical period, when the prejudices and misguided councils of a neighbouring nation render it not improbable that we may be called upon to defend the invaluable privileges of Englishmen, it must be a source of satisfaction to every loyal subject, that His Royal Highness, in the name of our venerable sovereign, has entrusted the defence of these colonies to an officer, who has so frequently proved himself worthy of commanding British colonies. May he ever, Sir, be thus influenced in his nominations to offices of great trust and high responsibility, by the merit of those on whom they are to be conferred. We thank you for your condescension in permitting your portrait to be taken and left with us. It will be a perpetual memorial of a personage, whose public conduct and private virtues have been so beneficial and endearing to His Majesty's subjects in this province.
"You go, Sir, to a more exalted station; but you cannot go where you will be more beloved or respected. In taking our leave of you, permit us to assure you of our warmest wishes, that every blessing may be yours, and every happiness attend your amiable and exemplary lady, and each individual of your excellent family.
"Halifax, 12th August, 1811."