174 NEWFOUNDLAND . in the trade of the colony, from the highest pitch of commercial success to the lowest point of depression. Several houses failed in consequence ; and the inha¬ bitants, not having those resources which an agricul¬ tural country affords, were reduced to great misery. The vast destruction of property by fire soon after at John's, occasioned also much distress, and drove many of the inhabitants from the island. Newfoundland has, however, recovered gradually from the deplorable condition it was in from the peace until 1818, which fortunately turned out a most successful year in the seal and cod fisheries. This year Governor Pickmore died at John's, and his body was carried to England in his majesty's ship Fly. He was the first resident governor, and succeeded the naval commanders who administered the government of Newfoundland while on the sta¬ tion during the fishing seasons, but who returned to England on the approach of winter. Sir Charles Hamilton , the first permanent resident governor, was appointed to the administration of the affairs of the colony this year. He was succeeded by the present governor, Sir Thomas Cochrane , a son of Admiral Sir A. Cochrane , and a captain in the royal navy.