The Expulsion of 1758 193

Lord, unless you interest yourself in their sufferings and losses, I see them plunged into the most frightful misery that they have ever experienced, such as I can scarcely paint for you. These poor people will be with- out food and clothing, unable to procure lodgings and firewood, in a strange world, timid by nature, and know- ing not whither to turn in their hour of need.

Messrs. Biscara and Castier will be necessary to them as leaders. They are capable men, My Lord, and I on my part could earnestly wish that it would please you, when I am allowed to come to France, to permit me to rejoin these people. I think, My Lord, that to avoid illness they should be placed far from a seaport; and if you have confidence in me, I offer to follow them wherever you please to settle them.

It will be, I thmk, My Lord, a great mistake, if the English do not permit a certain number to remain on the island, as it would be very difficult to restock it with cattle of which there remain over 6000 at the disposal of the English.

My family goes to Rochefort, and it is in that way I have the honor of writing you. The separation of our families greatly increases our expenses, and we find our- selves unable to support them. I myself have lost much both in Louisbourg and in Isle Saint Jean. This island has caused me much worry and expense, and during the four years, while I have been in charge, I have not had the smallest gratuity. But as you have appeared satis- fied, My Lord, with my administration, I beseech you not to abandon my family during my sojourn in Eng- land. On my return, if my means permit, I propose see- ing you personally to give you a more detailed account of my conduct. I earnestly hope, My Lord, that it will