1’28 HISTORICAL SKETCH 0F PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

The local government having decided on forwarding an exhibit to the great exhibition which was to open in London on the first of May next. made a collection of products and manufactures of the Island, which were placed under the charge of Henry Haszard, Esq., Commissioner, who sailed with them for England during the month of October.

The Assembly met for the dispatch of business in February, I863, and on that occasion the muster of‘Volunteers comprised a sub-division of Artillery and six companies of Rifles, with the band, under command of Major Pollard; as they were drawn up in front of the Colonial Building they presented a fine martial appearance, and elicited great praise for their soldicrly bearing. Major Davies commanded the Cavalry escort to His Excellency, while Captain Morris fired the salutes at Fort Edward.

On the 17th March, the Benevolent Irish Society and _ Temperance Societies, in full regalia, and with banners and flags, proceeded by a band, marched in procession to St. Dunstan’s Cathedral, where an impressive ceremony was solemnized, after which they paraded the principal streets of the city.

The 24th of May again witnessed the assembling of the city volunteers, in honor of Her Majesty’s Birthday. A royal salute, feu-de—joie, the marclypast to sweet strains of music, and a levee at Government House, comprised the celebrations of the day.

During the afternoon the ceremony of laying the corner: stone of the new Methodist church was successfully performed, by Mrs. Dundas, the Governor’s lady. It is also worthy of remark that this house of worship is the first in the city built of brick. This large and beautiful church is erected on the corner of Prince and Sydney streets, is 115 feet long, 68 feet wide, and 42 feet to the eaves, having a seating capacity of 1500. Its Sunday School numbers over 600 scholars.

The 28th of June also witnessed the collection of some 400 volunteers at the Barrack Square, the firing of guns and rifles, and crowds of spectators whose interest in the movements was undiminished : but the most pleasing anticipations awaited the Annual Rifle Competition, which was held on the 29th of September, on government grounds and was attended by 88