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avert or to shorten the continuance of the present dearth, which there is too much reason to [apprehend?] will be prolonged, however favorable the approaching summer may prove, [thro'?] the impossibility of providing seed in sufficient quantity. From such information as I have been able to collect, the scarcity is universal throughout the Island, and hundreds of families among the settlers must from that cause, relinquish the hope of harvest_ Still there are to be found individuals, scattered over the country, holding small supplies, which they sell at extravagant prices- 4/ or 5/ per bushel for potatos, for instance- and if funds were in my possession, I could materially assist the Indians, by giving them orders , for a small sum to each family, to purchase wherever they know that seed can be had - especially potatos. With respect to wheat, barley, and oats, supplies could be probably obtained cheaper at Halifax; altho' they would scarcely arrive in time for sowing, unless forwarded hither with the utmost expedition. The wheat especially would be very late.

It is of course , known to the Government that for some time past the Indians have been encouraged to exertion in agricultural occupations.
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