214 MAGDALEN ISLANDS.

I\IAGDALEN ISLANDS.

This cluster of islands is situated within the Gulf of St Lawrence, seventy-three miles distant from Newfoundland, sixty miles from Prince Edward Island, and sixty—five miles from Cape Breton. They are the property of Sir Isaac Coffin, who appears to take very little interest in them.* The inhabitants, about 500 in number, are Acadian French, who live principally by means of fishing. In the month of April, they go in their shallops among the fields of ice that float in the gulf, in quest of seals; and in summer, they employ themselves in fishing for her- ring and cod.

The soil of these islands is a light sandy loam, resting on freestone. It yields barley, oats, and pota- toes; and wheat would likely grow, but the quan- tity of soil.fit for cultivation, is no more than the fishermen require for potato gardens, and a little pasture. Some parts are covered with spruce, birch, and juniper—trees; others are formed into sandy downs, producing bent grass: cranberries, juniper berries, and various other Wild fruits, are very abuni dant.

A few miles to the north, Brion and Bird Islands are situated. Multitudes of aquatic birds frequent

* Since the above was written, the worthy baronet, it is said, has taken measures to direct the application of the rents which may be derived from these islands, to the support of a number of his relatives in the American navy.