Hamilton (Schooner), 26 Apr 1838

      We are glad to perceive activity that prevails on the Welland Canal. Several vessels have already arrived - understanding that the canal was in excellent repair. This they found on their arrival, to be correct, as they met with no obstacle in the prosecution of their voyage. Perhaps there is not an instance on record when the navigation was open at an earlier period, and it is certainly very gratifying to see schooner arriving in the middle of April, laden with wheat, from below, and conveying flour to Prescott, on their return - a circumstance of itsels sufficient to show that business is already progressing - notwithstanding the difficulties thrown in the way by the operations of the banks. which we trust will henceforth conduct their affairs on a more liberal scale.
      The schr SHAMROCK passend through here last Thursday, heavily laden for Toronto. The VICTORY, laden with salt and flour, passed on the 18th inst. for Amherstburgh. The HAMILTON arrived on the 15th, from Port Hope, and cleared on the 18th, for Prescott. Two fine American schooners, the CHARLES CROCKER and the ALBANY, passed this place on Friday. We hope this early spirit of enterprise will be followed up, as we can assure our American friends, that they will find no impediment in their passage through this channel, either from any defect in the state of the works, or other detention, from the officers in charge; as it is the desire of Lieut Governour publickly announced, that every facility shall be afforded to the American merchants. G.C. [Note - I have no clue as to what G.C. stands for.]
      St. Catharines Journal
      April 26, 1838