Lawrence to Monckton. A.L.S. Acknowledging receipt of letters of the 24t hand 27th, which he has communicated to Council. That body expressed perfect satisfaction with their contents. His utmost hopes fell far short of what Monckton has accomplished by his "moderate management and most judicious measures." He was particularly pleased with his success in bringing about the disarming of the people without having to go to extremes. This should bring about the re-establishment of peace and tranquillity. He hopes that Monckton has been able to collect such evidence as will lead to the conviction of the principal offenders.
Mercy is the most agreeable part, especially with foreigners who are unacquainted with British laws, but it is seldom the most effectual. In this case (not the first of its kind) mercy would tend to embolden the offenders and lead them to think the Government was afraid to punish them. Some of those mentioned in Monckton's letter especially Schuffelburger and the Fischal have been foremost in every disturbance, and he strongly favors putting them on trial, whether the evidence be sufficient or not, if only to show the thoughtless that these men are subject and not superior, to the laws.
Petrequin, also, if he has perjured himself, even under duress, should be brought to trial, in order to discover the names of those, who made him confess under torture. Hoffman's action in reading Petrequin's confession, obtained under such circumstances is unpardonable, and other parts of his conduct which are set forth make it undesirable that he should remain. Monckton should take the occasion to impress on the people that they cannot be independent of the laws and the Government.
He should also straighten out the people in regard to the supposed letter, which has been the ridiculous cause of the disturbance, and point out that if any such letter existed it must be a forgery; and that they may be assured of having received not only such articles as the Board of Trade agreed to send them but many more of various kinds and in greater quantities than were either promised or intended; also, that the continuance of these favors depends upon their return to duty and allegiance. They are to consider themselves as a free, but not licentious, people, and there is a happy prospect for them if they pursue the ways of industry.
By the letter of the 27th, he learns with satisfaction that everything is tranquil, but, as for forgiving the ringleaders, he cannot but think it necessary to try them, even if they are not punished. He leaves it all to Monckton's judgment. Monckton is urged to return to Halifax speedily owing to the lateness of the season. He is, finally, to publish a statement that repeated complaints have been made of people selling their provisions. If positive evidence is obtained of the existence of the practice, both buyer and seller will be struck off the provision list.