The dispositions of the Canadians favoured the measure; and had Quebec fallen, there is reason to believe the colony would have entered cordially into the union.

Had a few incidents turned out fortunately; had Arnold been able to reach Quebec a few days sooner, or to cross the St.Lawrence on his first arrival--or had the gallant Montgomery not fallen in the assault of the 31st December, it is probable the expedition would have been crowned with complete success.

But the radical causes of failure, putting fortune out of the question, were to be found in the lateness of the season when the troops were assembled, in a defect of the preparations necessary for such a service, and still more in the shortness of the time for which the men were enlisted.

Had the expedition been successful, the practicability of maintaining the country is much to be doubted.

Whilst General Montgomery lay before Quebec, and expected to obtain possession of the place, he extended his views to its preservation.