599 



defable mercantile importance; wharfs have 

 been constructed, and many spacious ware- 

 houses erected, that are usually filled with mer- 

 chandize: in fact, it is now become the main 

 entrepdt between Montreal and all the settle- 

 ments along the lakes to the westward. From 

 the commencement of spring until the latter 

 end of autumn, great activity prevails ; vessels 

 of from eighty to nearl}'' two hundred tons, em- 

 ployed in navigating the lake, are continually 

 receiving and discharging their cargoes, as well 

 as the batteaux used in the river. The harbour 

 is well sheltered and convenient, accessible to 

 ships not requiring more than three fathoms 

 water, with good anchorage close to the north- 

 eastern extremity of the town ; the entrance to 

 it is defended by a battery on Mississaga l^oint, 

 and another on Point Frederick, which, with 

 the shoal stretching from the former, with only 

 five feet of water upon it, are quite sufficient 

 for its protection. In the rear of the town, 

 upon a rising ground, some temporary field- 

 Tvorks have been thrown up for its defence 

 upon that side ; but from the growing import- 

 ance of the place these cannot be deemed 

 sufficient, and permanent works ought to be 

 constructed in their stead. Opposite to the 

 town, and distant about half a mile, is a long 

 low peninsula, forming the west side of Navy 



