THE MUSKOKA LAKES n 



a location, another to erect a log-house ; then 

 follows the clearing of some land, and chopping 

 the same. It is not to be expected that much 

 can be done the first season, but by a little exer- 

 tion sufficient roots and vegetables may be grown 

 for family use, and even some oats and peas 

 raised. A pioneer-settler informed me that he 

 had sown grain crops and planted potatoes as late 

 as the last of June, and had had a good return ; 

 but the month of May is preferable. English 

 people, of course, have no idea of the rapidity 

 with which crops mature in this country, 

 especially in new land. 



My advice is to make direct for Toronto, vid 

 Montreal. Upon arrival procure lists of un- 

 occupied lots, and make a thorough examination 

 of the land before locating. A man requires 

 a capital of at least ^100 clear of expenses of 

 travel. Some places are entirely free from stone, 

 with 70 per cent, fit for cultivation. The soil is 

 sandy loam. The timber is mixed with a good 

 deal of hardwood. Crane Lake would offer 

 exceptional advantages to strong young men. 

 During my fortnight here we averaged 30 Ibs. 

 of fish daily. These fish consisted of black 

 bass, green bass, pickerel, and maskinonge. 



