GHeArE hk kh Fri t

In the Hands of the English

THE long-expected war between England and France broke out in the spring of 1744, the news reaching Louisburg on May 3. For the inhabitants of Isle Saint Jean this was a severe blow to their quiet progress. Although their part in the struggle was a minor one, it was a period of fear, unrest, and discouragement; and at one time it seemed that the entire population might be deported to France. With Louisburg in the hands of the English, and com- munications with Canada beset by many dangers, they existed during four years without a garrison, without either a civil or a judicial officer and without the ministrations of a priest. If the evidence of the register of Port La Joye can be relied upon they were denied spiritual comfort for more than five years, there being no entry from May 11, 1744, until September 15, 1749. Under such circumstances it is not surprising that population remained stationary and that after the restoration of 1749 the inhabitants constantly clamored for fortifications, an increase in the garrison, and the regular organization of ecclesi- astical parishes.

Immediately on the outbreak of war it was decided at the French capital to defer the appointment of a successor to Duchambon as Lieutenant de Roi; and he, having become Governor of Ile Royale through accident, neither of the successors of du Quesnel hav-