Frigate "Pegasus." Traditions repeat that the young Duke of
Clarence enjoyed himself amazingly among the beau monde of Quebec,
having eyes for more than the scenic beauties of the "Ancient Capital,"
not unlike other worthy Princes who came after him.
"He took an early opportunity of visiting the Ursulines, and by his
polite and affable manner quite won the hearts of those worthy
ladies." - (Histoire des Ursulines, vol. III, p. 183.)
Sorel, in honour of his visit, changed its name into Fort William Henry.
Among other festivities at Quebec, Lord Dorchester, Governor-General, the
successor to Sir Frederick Haldimand, on the 21st August, 1787, treated H.
R. Highness to a grand pyrotechnic display. "Prince William Henry and his
company, being seated on an exalted platform, erected by the Overseer of
Public Works, James Thompson, over a powder magazine joining the end of
the new building (Haldimand Castle), while the fireworks were displayed on
an eminence fronting it below the old Citadel." - (Thompson's Diary.)
THE QUEBEC AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.
In the stately reception room of the Castle was founded, in 1789, the
Quebec Agricultural Society.
"On the 6th April, the rank and fashion, nobility and clergy of all
denominations, as well as commoners, crowded at the Chateau St.
Louis, to enter their names as subscribers to the Quebec Agricultural
Society, warmly patronized by his Excellency Lord Dorchester, Hon.
Hugh Finlay, Deputy Postmaster-General, was chosen Secretary.
