386 CAPE BRETON.

CHAPTER II.

Description of Sydney and other Principal Settlements, 8m. 8w.

SYDNEY, which is considered the metropolis, or county town, of Cape Breton, was founded by Gover- nor Desbarres in 1823. It is situated a few miles south of the entrance to Bras d’Or, on a point of land lying between a small river which branches to the south, and the larger continuation of Dartmouth river; and about two miles above the junction of the latter river with the west arm of Sydney, or Spanish Bay. It was, previously to the re—annexion of Cape Breton to Nova Scotia, the residence of the lieutenant- governors. Its situation is very beautiful, having a steep bank, with deep water on the west, from which the site of the town descends gently to the east. The surrounding scenery, presenting woods, water, culti- vated land, and some other picturesque features, is interesting and pretty, but not romantic; the town is regularly planned, contains from sixty to seventy houses, rather handsomely built, with gardens at- tached, and a population of about five hundred.

_ The government buildings are the barracks,stores,

and government-house, at the north end of the town. 5