46 HISTORY OF PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND. Fidelity to historical accuracy compels us to say that a-, charge affecting the moral character of the late governor had been made, in which the wife of one of his friends was, implicated. That charge, whether true or false, was doubt-, less forwarded to English headquarters, where, if supported by satisfactory evidence, it was certain to have no small influence in determining the fate of Patterson as governor, and may account for the mysterious silence of officials (as complained of by Mr. Stuart ) when pressed lor informa-- tion with regard to the reasons by which government was. island, persuaded, from the proofs you have given of your zeal for his service, as well as of your prudence and discretion, that you will make a. suitable return for the confidence which has been placed in you by a faith-, ful and diligent discharge of your duty. ■' I am, sir, your obedient servant, '■ Sydney. " To Lieutenant - Governor Fanning ." The following is the letter of Lord Sydney , formally intimating to Patter¬ son bis dismissal, as well as the reply to the communication of Patterson to his lordship, already given:— " Whitehall, 5th April, 17 S 7. " Sir,—I have received your letter, number thirty-one, of the fifth Xovem-. ber last, in answer to one from me of the thirtieth of June preceding, wherein you have stated certain reasons which have induced you to delay the carrying into execution His Majesty's commands, which were sent to you by me, for delivering over the elnrge of the Island of Saint John to Colonel Fanning , and for your returning to England , to answer certain com¬ plaints which have been exhibited against you. " Without, however, entering into the grounds upon which you have pro-, ceeded to justify disobedience of His Majesty's orders, I must acquaint you that I have received his royal commands to inform you that His Majesty has no further occasion for your services as Lieutenant - Governor of Saint John. " Colonel Fanning , who has been appointed your successor, will receive from you all the public documents In your custody, and such orders and instructions as have been transmitted to you which have not been fully- executed. ■'I am, sir, your obedient, humble servant, " Sydney*., " Lieutenant - Governor Patterson ."