A | 
“fisheries by the French, as the means of maintaining the | 
*“ strength of their Navy, it would appear by no means improbable _ 
“that such an attempt would be made if there were thus with- — 
“drawn the only means of preventing its success. And this 
“‘ probability appears the greater when it is considered that the 
*“ cessation of British production, with the cause in operation that 
“would render its recovery impossible, would in all probability 
** produce a rise in the market value of fish, which would even- 
‘tually render unnecessary the continuance of any bounty, so 
“‘ that the additional expenditure on the part of France would be 
‘only a temporary sacrifice that would secure a aoe 
** economical gain, 
“34. As the matter at present appears to me, it seems 
'“deserving of the consideration of Her Majesty's Government — 
“‘ whether it would, under any circumstances, be politic to place © 
“in the hands of the French a weapon capable of being used 
“‘ with such terrible effect against British interests, and whether, 
‘“‘ without the security for the discontinuance of the bounties on — 
“ their present footing, as above referred to, it would be wise to 
‘“‘make further effort for the passing of the arrangement while | 
“ the bait clause is included in it. 
** 35. In conclusion, I would respectfully express on behalf of 
*‘ this suffering colony the earnest hope that the vital interests — 
“of 200,000 British subjects will not be disregarded out of 
“* deference to the susceptibilities of any foreign Power, and this — | 
“especially when the privilege which that Power desires to- 
“retain cannot be pretended to be matter of right, but is a 
** benefit which may be lawfully withdrawn, as in the nature of a 
“tenancy at will, and:may now be justly withdrawn as being 
“used for the infliction of fatal injury on those who have hitherto 
“ permitted its enjoyment. Sincerely hoping that the fulfilment 
“ of the desires of Newfoundland may be no longer delayed, and 
“that I may be able to meet the Legislature next month with 
“ the announcement that this important Bill has already received 
“ Her Majesty’s gracious allowance and confirmation, 
“T have, &c., 
(Signed) “ G, WILLIAM Des Va@ox. 
«The Right Honourable 
“Her Majesty’s Principal Secretary of State 
“for the Colonies.” 
