French and English shook hands, and for the
first time in many months a spirit of unity between the two classes of
settlers appeared. The elections took place in due time, but in Winnipeg
Mr. Bannatyne, the best citizen of the place, was beaten by Mr. A.H.
Scott, and the greatest annoyance was felt at this by the better
citizens on account of his being an American, and because of the 'New
Nation' continuing to advocate annexation."
On the 25th of January the forty delegates assembled. Much excitement
had been caused at this time among the French by the escape of Dr.
Schultz, their great opponent. Commissioner Smith addressed the
Convention. Riel wished him to accept the original Bill of Rights, but
Mr. Smith refused to do this. A proposal was then brought up by the
French Deputies that the proposal made by the Imperial Government to the
Hudson's Bay Company to take over their lands be null and void. This was
voted down by 22 to 17. Riel rose in rage and said: "The devil take it;
we must win. The vote may go as it likes, but the motion must be
carried." Riel raged like a madman. That night, in his fury, he went to
the bedside of Governor McTavish, sick as he was, and it is said,
threatened to have him shot at once.
Pages:
257
258
259
260
261
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274
275
276
277
278
279
280
281