John Goldsbury Parker

John Goldsbury Parker (14 May 1794 - 24 Jun 1875)

John was the eldest son of Ezra Parker Jr and Caroline Goldsbury. Born in Winchester, NH, John moved to Sacket's Harbor, NY, where he operated a packet boat line on Lake Erie. His trade took him to Kingston, Upper Canada (now Ontario), where he married Jane Carson Turpin in January of 1817. The Parkers maintained their home in Sacket's Harbor through about 1825, by which time they were living principally in Kingston, at the home of Jane's parents. Later, John relocated his family to Hamilton, where he had set up a warehouse as his business expanded into wholesale merchandise. While living in Upper Canada, he was an outspoken supporter of the movement for democratic home-rule in both Upper and Lower Canada (Quebec), which led to his being deemed a trouble-maker by the British authorities. With the outbreak of the 1837 Upper Canada rebellion, John was arrested and charged with treason. He appears to have pleaded guilty in response to an offer of amnesty, but if true, the offer of amnesty was never made good to him; instead, it seems the authorities planned to ship him to a penal colony in Australia. The use of the term amnesty, however, is probably inaccurate. The Upper Canada statute in question referred to "conditional pardon", and the description of how it was to be applied by the Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada makes it clear that such a conditional pardon "was to have the effect of an attainder for high treason" as far as concerned forfeiture of property, honors, and titles. Instead of a pardon as the concept is understood today, this unquestionably amounted to entering a guilty plea in return for a lesser punishment; punishment for high treason, in addition to forfeiture, was death. John briefly escaped, but was recaptured and eventually taken to England. His case was reviewed in the British courts, which ordered his release. Released, John returned to the United States in July of 1839, joining his wife and family in Rochester, NY, where Jane had taken the children after John's arrest. In Rochester, John opened a grocery and wholesale business. In the 1850's, John moved his business to New York City, and made his home in Bergen, NJ. He died in 1875 in Rochester, NY.
(Photo courtesy of Mrs. Mary Hills Munroe, great-granddaughter of John's daughter, Caroline)

DOCUMENTS HOME

These are a collection of newspaper articles, of varying accuracy, detailing John G. Parker's arrest, captivity, and eventual release.

[Albany Evening Journal (NY), 15 December 1837]

DAILY BUFFALO JOURNAL, Extra. }
5. P. M. Monday. }

Extract from a letter to the editors from a gentleman of this city.

Queenston, Dec. 10, 1837.

Dear Sirs--To-night, per steamboat Transit, the Hon. M. S. Bidwell arrived here from Toronto, having been ordered by the Governor to leave the Province. He brings positive news of the engagement at Toronto. The loss of lives on both sides was on six; 4 patriots and 2 royalists. This morning Mr. McNab left Toronto with 400 royalists to march London, there to meet the patriot troops of the London district, who mustered very largely, destroyed the jail and court house, and released the prisoners; from whence they were to march to Hamilton, there to release John G. Parker, who is arrested from high treason. He was discovered by his letters being intercepted--which were to some patriot leader in Lower Canada. Many warrants are out. Mr. McMicking, of Chippeway, was arrested at Toronto, and is in prison. Mr. Mackenzie has not been heard of, nor none of his men arrested This is all I can say to you at present of the movements on this side of the water.
Yours, &c.
JOHN COTTER

[The Baltimore Sun (MD), 19 December 1837]

FROM UPPER CANADA.
[Correspondence of the Albany Argus]

TORONTO, Dec. 11, 1837--3 o'clock, P. M. "The province is in a state of revolt. Our stores have been shut for a week. The whole of the banks have been closed since Monday, and it may be a few weeks before they open. Matters look bad here; every one is suspected. The Royalists had myself and brother detained in the Mayor's office 34 hours, when they saw your vessels consigned to me, pretending that I had powder and rifles on board to supply the republicans with--this of course was not the case. They let me off under bonds, of myself $800, and two others of $400 each, not to molest the Queen.--She being so far off I guess I shall not molest her most Excellent Majesty."
We have before us a proclamation of Sir F B Head, offering 1000l for the apprehension of Wm. Loyen (sic) Mackenzie, and 500l each for David Gibson, Samuel Daunt, Silas Fletcher and Jesse Loyn. Dr. Rolph is not included, and Mr. Bidwell, it will be seen by our Lewiston correspondent, has been directed to leave the province.
The Kingston British Whig, a tory paper, of the 8th inst. contains some particulars of the arrest and commitment of John G. Parker, Esq. of Hamilton, for high treason. It seems he addressed letters to persons in different parts of the province, under cover to G. W. Yarker, Esq, a magistrate of Kingston, who having his suspicions excited, opened, and finding them of an alledged treasonable character, sent them to Sir F. B. Head. Considerable alarm had prevailed at Kingston; and precaution had been taken to strengthen the defences, and call out the militia.
In our extra of Saturday evening we gave the loyal version. As we are disposed to be impartial, it is but fair to state the other side, which is that Mackenzie is still in strong force in the neighborhood of Toronto, with 500 riflemen and other troops, and he has sent to this side for supplies as ordnance and munitions.

[Baltimore Gazette and Daily Advertiser (MD), 19 December 1837]

UPPER CANADA.

    We have accounts from Toronto as late as the 11th instant. All was quiet, and the band of insurgents was completely dispersed. The Hon. Mr. Bidwell has been required to "leave the province, forever," although he took no part whatever in the attempted insurrection. He suffers from the use made of his name by others. He was at Lewiston on the 11th instant, as was also Dr. Rolph. We have a letter from Mr. Bidwell, of that date, written at Lewiston.
    Mr. McMicking, M. P. P., had been arrested.--There is no truth in the report of risings in the London district, or any where except Toronto. Travellers are not interrupted in passing from or into the province.
    John G. Parker, Esq. of Hamilton, had been arrested and committed, having circulated letters of a seditious tendency. There had been some alarm in Kingston, and precautionary measures had been taken, but no disturbance had occurred. Mr. Mackenzie was at Buffalo on the 11th, having escaped in disguise. He was received at the house of Dr. Chapin, in Buffalo, and was to address a meeting of the citizens on the 12th. The news of his presence made an immense sensation.
    We learn from the Coburgh Star that the leading reformers in that place have denounced Mr. McKenzie and his projects.
    There is no truth in the report that the steamboat Traveller had been burned at Niagara.
    We find the annexed letter in the Buffalo Journal of the 11th. It is modest certainly, coming from a fugitive.
To the editords of the Buffalo Whig and Journal.
    Sirs-- The reformers of this part of Upper Canada have taken arms in defence of the principle of independence of European domination; in plain words, they wish this province to be a free, sovereign and independent state.
    They request all assistance and skill which the free citizens of your republic may choose to afford. I address this letter to your office, because you have expressed a friendly wish towards in the Buffalo Whig. We are in arms near the city of Toronto--2 1/2 miles distant.
    --> American editors will be pleased to copy this letter, whether they are not favorable to Canadian freedom.
Your faithful servant,
   W. L. MACKENZIE.
Yonge street, Dec. 6, 1837.

[The Pittsfield Sun (MA), 21 December 1837]

From the Rochester Democrat, Dec 12.
We learn from sources other than that subjoined, that the imprisonment of J. G. Parker, (who was a merchant, highly esteemed, in this city, in 1823) has caused the most intense excitement. His forcible liberation is hourly expected, as the country around Hamilton is settled almost entirely by Patriots of the warmest stamp.

[The Daily Ohio Statesman (Columbus, OH), 21 December 1837]

From the Baltimore American.

Canada.

The Burlington (Vermont) Free Press of the 12th inst. has the following paragraph touching affairs in Lower Canada:
Appearances now warrant the belief that the Canada War is at an end at present. We have good reason for believing that there is at the present moment no embodied armed force in opposition to the government.
During the past week the troops have passed through the disturbed district without opposition, visiting St. Dennis, St. Charles and St. Hyacinth,--burning the property of Nelson, and other obnoxious individuals. The gathering at the Lake of Two Mountains, it is also said, has dispersed.
The proclamation of martial law in the district of Montreal and the offer of large rewards for the arrest of the leading patriots have driven a large number across the line into the States. Among others, Mr. T. S. Brown arrived at this place on Monday. It is now rendered very certain that the late movement in Canada was an event not anticipated by leading radicals, and, of course, not provided for.
There seems to have been no concert among the head men, and nothing of that kind of preparation necessary to sustain and carry on a revolutionary movement. Mr. Papineau, as we now learn, has been in no way cognizant of what has taken place at St. Dennis and St. Charles; and up to the present time, his location is not known.
The Boston Atlas has the following intelligence, confirmatory of the foregoing, in a letter dated

MONTPELIER, Vermont, }
Tuesday Evening, Dec. 12. }

Mr Papineau has arrived at Middlebury and Mr. T. S. Brown is at Burlington. It is announced that THE WAR IS ENDED. I speak advisedly. This means for the present.
The Albany Argus of Friday contains a letter from Lewiston, dated the 8th instant, in which it is stated that Dr. Morrison of Toronto, and Mr. Parker of Hamilton, were in prison at Toronto. The ferry at Queenston was guarded, to prevent the escape of the insurgents against whom warrants had been issued.
It was reported at Lewiston, that a large body of insurgents was marched from the Western districts to Hamilton. Very doubtful.

[Albany Evening Journal (NY), 23 December 1837]

SCRAPS FROM CANADA
BRUTAL TREATMENT OF MRS. PARKER, THE WIFE OF JOHN G. PARKER, now in prison at Toronto.--

At the time Mr. John G. Parker was arrested in his store, Mrs. P. and her family were up stairs, (their dwelling being over the store.) Two armed men, (the McSherreys) rushed up stairs; Mrs. P. was standing near the stove, and had just thrown into the fire some papers that lay on the table, part of which were scraps written by her children. One of the McSherrys pushed her back with great violence against the wall, his brother presented his pistol, and threatened to blow her brains out!
They then stationed a guard of from 6 to 10 men at the doors of the hall, and commenced a general pillage, breaking open every article in the house, and taking possession of all the papers.
There were two ladies of the tory party present, who remonstrated with them, for their brutal conduct, but without effect.
The scene that ensued cannot be described.--The screams of a family of small children, when their mother was threated with instant death; the arrest of their father; the fierce and blood-thirsty spirit of the officers, was enough to make the stoutest heart quail and tremble. Mr. Parker was confined in a solitary cell, and his wife refused permission to see him.

[The Richmond Enquirer (VA), 30 December 1837]

UPPER CANADA.

Dr. Rolph reached Rochester, as we learn from the Democrat, on Wednesday evening, from Buffalo. He reports that the loyalist force under Speaker McNab, sent from Toronto to put down Dr. Duncombe, who is in command of the patroit forces in the London district, are stated to have been dispersed by Duncombe, or come over in great part to him. Passengers from Lewiston, however, are of opinion that no engagement has taken place.
A gentleman from St. Catherine's further tells us that an express reached Chippewa on Monday morning, for all the men that could be spared, as there was trouble in the London district.
On Thursday, McNab's forces, counting a reinforcement from Hamilton, amounted to 500 men. It might possibly have afterwards swelled to 800. McNab had no ordnance. Duncombe's forces were at Brantford Wednesday, and numbered then 500, and would soon reach 1500, with 3 cannons, two of which were cast at Varmon's Foundry, Long Point, (Lake Erie,) for the use of the patriots. The Indians who joined McNab were probably the 100 friendly warriors living near Brantford. Those of Oxford and Oakland it was believed would join Duncombe.
Marshal S. Bidwell by permission quitted Upper Canada on Sunday week forever.
Great complaints are made against Gov. Head for a party sent out by him to arrest Mr. Charles Duran at Hamilton, Mr. D. having it appears been active in informing McKenzie of the condition of Toronto. They maltreated Mrs. D., who was in delicate health, also her sister and Mr. Parker, brother of John G. Parker.
The number of patriot volunteers assembled on Navy Island is estimated at 700--about one third Canadians and three members of Parliament.
The Hamilton (U. C.) Express says, "the Governor has despatched a message to Gov. Marcy, at Albany, demanding the body of W. L. Mackenzie" and thinks that "according to the conventional law between that colony and New York, persons charged with felony must be given up by either party." We do not believe that Gov. Marcy would comply with any requisition of this kind.
The watch-house at Buffalo was broken open the night of Wednesday last, and the State arms taken out, and it is presumed are in possession of the patriots on Navy Island. The State arsenal at Batavia was entered Tuesday night and several pieces of ordnance taken. Mrs. Parker, wife of John G. Parker, in prison at Toronto, was treated with great brutality by the loyalists. It is feared that Mr. P. will be executed.
It is stated in a letter in the Buffalo Advertiser of Thursday 21st, dated Fort Erie, Dec. 20, that the force under Dr. Duncombe had actually been dispersed.
On Monday night, McKenzie was at Lewiston, on business pertaining to his camp. Two cannons were sent from there to Navy Island, and others were expected to follow.
LATEST--A cannonading was heard by latest accounts between Chippewa and Lundy's Lane; the cause not known. Sir Francis Head had arrived at Chippewa, and was expected to attack Navy Island in person. A steamboat loaded with shells, Congreve rockets, &c., was hourly expected at Queenston. [N. Y. Star, Dec. 26.]

[Vermont Gazette, 2 January 1838]
The Buffalo Journal gives a report that Mr. John G. Parker, a highly respectable merchant and resident of Hamilton, U. C. had been arrested at that place on charge of treasonable practices, by a royal mob, and HANGED without the formality of a trial!

[New Hampshire Sentinel (Keene, NH), 5 April 1838]
FROM CANADA.--A bill has been found against John G. Parker and seventy-four others. Sutherland has been condemned, and will probably be hung.

[New Hampshire Sentinel (Keene, NH), 12 April 1838]
We stated, carelessly, last week, that Sutherland, the Patriot General, had been convicted.--Not so. His trial is still progressing at Toronto. It is believed that John G. Parker, against who a bill had been found for high treason, will be acquitted. Mr Parker is a native of Winchester in this county.

[Portsmouth Journal (NH), 28 April 1838]

From the N. Y. Commercial Advertiser,
FROM UPPER CANADA.

Our private advices from Toronto are to Wednesday last. At 9 o'clock on that day Gen Sutherland was banished for life, to New South Wales.
It was the prevailing opinion at Toronto, on Wednesday last, that there would be no farther (sic) executions, except perhaps General Theller, and opinions were about equally divided as to the fate of that individual, between death and banishment.
Mr. John G. Parker had pleaded guilty, and thrown himself upon the court for mercy; it is feared by his friends, that he will be among those who will be banished to New South Wales.

[New Hampshire Sentinel (Keene, NH), 3 May 1838]
UPPER CANADA.-- The Hamilton Express of the 14th contradicts the statements that the bodies of Messrs Lount and Matthews were denied to their friends for interment.
The Kingston Chronicle gives the result of the late elections for members of the House of Assembly, in the places of the exiles--says the new members "are all good and true," that is, high toned conservatives, or tories.
By the Toronto Colonist of the 19th we learn that John McDougal has been acquitted--that the grand jury has ignored [dismissed] the bills presented against J. P. Cherry, John G. Parker, J. Wixon, Henry Earle and George Lount. Reuben A. Parker has been admitted to bail.
The Colonist says that there are but few more prisoners to be tried.

[The Milwaukee Sentinel (WI), 8 May 1838]
The Toronto Patriot of the 13th, says.--The Court was occupied yesterday with the trial of Dr. Hunter, who was finaly (sic) acquitted. John G. Parker pleaded guilty, and petitioned his Excellency before arraignment. The witnesses were in consequence discharged, and left on Wednesday in the William IV.

[New-Hampshire Gazette (Exeter, NH), 8 May 1838]

Upper Canada.

The Governor of Upper Canada, Mr. Arthur, seems to have little or no mercy for the revolters. His experience as Governor of Van Dieman's Land--a nation of convicts--is not suited to his present office over a people who have some ambition to be free. The execution of Lount and Matthews seems to be a measure of unnecessary severity now that the revolt is fully put down. Were the country in a state of war, there might be some excuse for such summary punishment.
By the following, it will be seen that other prisoners by this time have probably shared the same fate. Their reprieve seems to have been but a mere aggravation:
"UPPER CANADA.--We perceive by the Kingston Herald of the 24th ult., that the seven unfortunate men who were condemned to death had only been reprived (sic) for fourteen days. This is somewhat important to their friends, because it was generally believed that the extension of time was to allow of their case being laid before the Queen in Council, which it is obviously impossible to do in fourteen days. By a private letter received in this city from Toronto, we learn that Dr. Hunter, a medical practitioner of Whitby, was tried for high treason, the same day as Lount and Matthews were executed, and whether the jury were at all influenced by that event, or solely guided by a sense of justice, we will not say, but the prisoner was acquitted. The son of Galen had not reached his house above an hour, and was just beginning to arrange his pestle and mortar for business, when a friendly messenger arrived to say that a new warrant was out against him. This was enough, he overturned the pill boxes, got upon his horse, galloped down to Coburg, arrived in time for the steamer, and is now enjoying himself under the protection of Uncle Sam.
"The next trial will be that of Dr. Morrison. J. G. Parker has been sentenced to fourteen years transportation. The editor of the Herald adds that a true bill has been found against Dunscomb."

[Jamestown Journal (NY), 20 June 1838]

From the Montreal Courier.

Friday evening the celebrated Generals Sutherland and Theller, Colonel Dodge, and seven others--all state prisoners, on their way to England, whence they will be transported, arrived in town from Toronto, via the Rideau Canal, under the guard of a detachment of the Toronto Queen's Rangers. The two Generals and Colonel were cabin passengers from Kingston to Lachine, and were without irons.--The other seven were chained in pairs, and exhibited a most wretched appearance--some of them appeared mere boys.--Sutherland wore a kind of blanket half military looking coat, and blue cloth cloak. He is a handsome man, with an intelligent but bad expression of countenance. Theller, who is a short, stout impudent looking fellow, appeared wholly unconcerned about his situation, and converses with every person who addresses him. Dodge has a handsome, but pale and dejected countenance. He wears a green shade over one of his eyes, which he lost at the time he was arrested. Twelve others came as far as Kingston with them. Among whom were Montgomery, John G. Parker, and the two Sheppards. The batteau with the prisoners passed through the locks, and was brought alongside of the British America, on board of which there were out an adequate guard. Soon afterwards they were removed to the new jail.

[New Hampshire Sentinel (Keene, NH), 12 July 1838]
MORE TROUBLE IN UPPER CANADA.--It appears by the Kingston Chronicle, extra, of July 2d that dispatches have been received at Toronto, with information that "the pirates" to the number of 1000 have effected a landing at two points, the mouth of the Thames, and at Sarnia, on the river St Clair. The 34th regiment is on its way to check these "pirates"-- A Detroit article intimates that this force has already been dispersed. A number of prisoners have been rescued by the "rebels" in the London District. Moreau, for whom a reward of L500 was offered, has been arrested with 20 or 30 others.
[It appears by the list of the proscribed, that Mr John G. Parker (son of Colonel Parker of Winchester) is of the number discharged and set at liberty. We congratulate his numerous friends. Nelson, Shore and others sentenced to be banished to Bermuda, were embarked on board a steamboat for Quebec. A great crowd assembled. Lord Durham was momentarily expected at Montreal, on his way to Upper Canada.]

[New York Spectator, 9 August 1838]

From the Kingston (U. C.) Herald.

ESCAPE OF FIFTEEN STATE PRISONERS FROM FORT HENRY.--Yesterday, Monday morning, our townmen were astounded with the news that 15 state prisoners had escaped during the previous night, which had been very stormy. They had been furnished with a plan of the fort, which, it is believed, had been drawn by some one who had access to the plans in the engineer department. They had also obtained a mason's setting bar, which had been recently pointed with steel by a blacksmith in the works. Thus furnished, they broke through the partition wall between their cell and the adjoining one. This wall was four feet thick, and had had a door connecting the two cells, which door way had been walled up, and through which they broke. This other cell has a trap door leading to the covered way which goes out into the ditch of the fort. They then made their bed boards into ladders by tying them together with their sheets, and mounted the wall of the ditch and escaped. The blacksmith who had steeled the bar, when he heard that such an article had been found in the cell, came forward to say that he had done it for one of the workmen, but had no idea of the purpose for which it was wanted. The workman is in custody. The following is the list of prisoners who escaped, the 17 who came last from Toronto being in a different part of the fort. John Montgomery, John Anderson, Edward Kennedy, Gilbert F. Morden, Wilson Reid, Thomas Tracy, Wm. Stockdale, Thomas Shepherd, John Alarn, John Stewart, Stephen B. Brophy, Michael Shepherd, Walter Chase, John G. Parker, Leonard Watson.
They were traced for several miles down the river bank, and a party of the Frontenac light dragoons were sent off in pursuit. John G. Parker has been retaken by a corporal of the 83d, who had been sent out with other scouts disguised. The corporal came on Parker in the woods, addressed him by name, drew a pistol and made him prisoner. Parker offered him $900 to let him go, but he nobly refused the bribe. A subscription is on foot to reward him for his patriotism.
Up to the time of our going to press, none of the prisoners have been re-taken except Parker.

[New Hampshire Sentinel (Keene, NH), 9 August 1838]
A letter from New-York, dated August 15 (sic), to the editor of the Boston Evening Gazette, says: "Hale, of the News Room, has had access to letters received here, from which he informs me that John G. Parker and 14 others, one of whom is Montgomery, have escaped from jail in Canada, and perhaps crossed the line in safety. Moreau was hung on Monday last as sentenced." We supposed Mr. P. and all others not included in the list of the proscribed, published in the Toronto papers, were set at liberty. So the article intimated, if it did not distinctly assert it. By the above, it would appear he was with others whose fate was not decided.
--The escape was effected by means of a sewer running under the prison. N.B.--The Montreal Courier of Thursday last, says Mr Parker and five others of the prisoners, have been retaken!

[Jamestown Journal (NY), 15 August 1838]

From the Oswego Palladium of August 1.

ESCAPE OF JOHN G. PARKER & OTHER PATRIOT PRISONERS.
We are just informed by Mr. A. Griffin son of Col. D. Griffin, of Sackett's Harbor, that on the night of Sunday last, John G. Parker, together with fourteen other patriot prisoners in the fort at Kingston, succeeding in making their escape. Mr. G. saw the passage through which they escaped. They had succeeded with a chisel in making a hole through an interior wall of the fort, from which with blankets they let themselves down about 15 feet into a subterranean passage, which led to the water's edge from whence they escaped to French creek by the assistance of some unknown persons with boats. Great excitement prevailed at Kingston on the discovery of the escape of the prisoners.
The fort at Kingston is new and built in the strongest manner, and surrounded as it was by British regulars, the escape of Parker and his companions is almost miraculous.
Thousands of sympathising friends congratulate him on his escape from the tyranny of his oppressors.
We place the utmost reliance on the above information.

[Vermont Phoenix (Brattleboro, VT), 17 August 1838]

From the Sacket's Harbor Whig.

Parker and his Companions.--We announced in our last paper the escape of John G. Parker and fourteen other prisoners from the Fort at Kingston, who had been confined during eight months past for daring to think and say that the Canadas were not governed as well as they might be. Mr. Parker, with two of his fellow prisoners, have been re-taken, and are again in confinement at the Fort loaded as we are informed, with chains and fetters. Ten of the prisoners have arrived safe upon this side, and two others have not been heard of since the night on which they left the Fort and separated.
Those who arrived in the county suffered greatly from hunger while effecting their escape--they remained upon Long Island three days with scarcely any thing to subsist upon, while the country was being scoured by British soldiers to hunt down these unfortunate men, and again send them loaded with chains and fetters to the damp & gloomy dungeon from which they had escaped. Among the number of those escaped, is Mr. Montgomery. This is the individual who kept the Inn called Montgomery's Tavern, upon Younge street, Toronto, at which the Patriots assembled in December last. Since that time he has been in confinement, and at the time of his escape was under sentence of death. Two others who escaped were under sentence of death.
It is said that Mr Parker cannot long survive. He is literally loaded down with chains--sick, emaciated and worn out with long confinement,--his condition is most pitiable. Two-thirds of the population of Upper Canada deeply and sincerely regret that he did not succeed in effecting his escape.
No one unacquainted with the sufferings of these unfortunate men can conceive the joy and gratitude they exhibited on their safe arrival here.

[New Hampshire Sentinel (Keene, NH), 26 September 1838]
CASE OF JOHN G. PARKER.--We find in the Oneida Whig a letter from the Rev. Henry Mandeville, of Utica, to the signers of a petition of which he was the bearer, for the pardon of Mr John G. Parker, now imprisoned at Kingston, U. C. The petition was addressed to Lord Durham. Mr. Mandeville proceeded with it to Quebec, where he had interviews, first with Col. Cooper and subsequently with Lord Durham, in which he was very courteously received, and favored with opportunities to advocate the cause with which he was entrusted. He speaks very highly of Sir George Arthur, and expresses strong confidence that Mr Parker will soon be liberated. He received the following answer to the petition.
N. Y. Com. Adv.

CASTLE OF ST LEWIS, QUEBEC,
August 30, 1838

Sir,--I am directed by his Excellency, the Governor General, to acknowledge the reception of a memorial from the citizens of Utica, in the state of New-York praying for his interposition in behalf of Mr John G. Parker, now in confinement on a charge of treasonable offences.
His excellency desires me to express to the citizens of Utica, his high sense of the praise-worthy conduct pursued by them during the late unhappy disturbances in the provinces of Upper and Lower Canada, and his entire sympathy with their wishes for peace and good will between two nations bound to each other by so many ties of feeling and of interest. His Excellency will, in consequence, forward the memorial to his Excellency Sir George Arthur, and recommend it to that consideration on his part, which is due to those respectable persons who have signed it. As the case of Mr Parker is one which belongs entirely to the province of Upper Canada, it must be submitted to the officer entrusted with the administration of that province.
I have the honor to be, Sir,
Your most ob't servant,
CHARLES BULLER,
Chief Secretary.
Rev. Mr Mandeville, &c., &c.

[Columbian Register (New Haven, CT), 1 December 1838]
John G. Parker.--The Kingston U. C. Herald states that this gentleman has at length been sent off to Van Dieman's Land, for having written and spoken against the Colonial Government!

[The Mercury and Weekly Journal of Commerce (New York, NY), 6 December 1838]
John G. Parker, B. Wait, Chandler, Brown, and 19 other political prisoners, have been shipped to England in the bark Captain Ross.

[The Milwaukee Sentinel (WI), 25 December 1838]
Mrs. Parker, the wife of the unfortunate John G. Parker, we understand, has taken up her residence in this city. Mrs. P. has suffered severely from the cruel tyranny of the Canadian Government, as well as her husband. We understand she has a very interesting family of children, and that a number of them are quite young. We trust that she will be treated by the liberal citizens of Rochester with marked kindness and generous sympathy. Certainly no one has higher claims to such treatment.
If her unfortunate husband can know that she and her children are among generous friends, who possess the "heaven born" feeling of sympathy, it will measurably mitigate the pangs which are now lacerating his generous heart.--Rochester Repub.

[New Hampshire Sentinel (Keene, NH), 30 January 1839]
ARRIVAL OF CANADIAN PRISONERS AT LIVERPOOL.--Considerable sensation was produced in this town on Monday last, by the news that a number of prisoners had arrived from Canada, as it was reported, to take their trials in this country. The latter part of the rumor, however, was found to be untrue on their arrival, the whole of them having been tried and convicted in Upper Canada, 23 of them of high treason, and 12 of felonies, unconnected with the rebellion. They are on their way to a penal settlement. Mr Dowling, superintendent of the police, on receiving news of their approach, went out to meet them in a steamer. A great crowd assembled to see them land. Some of them are very fine and resolute men.
They are at present lodged in the Borough Gaol, and will remain there until orders are received from London. During their voyage across the Atlantic, they formed a plan for overpowering their guards, consisting of six Canadian volunteers, and seizing the ship, but one of them turned informer before the plot was matured. John G. Parker held the rank of general among the insurgents. The following are the names of the whole: Alex. M'Leod, Tinhy Malcolm, John Grant, J. J. M'Neilty, J. G. Parker, Benj. West, John Vernon, Norman Mellory, Paul Bedford, James Wagoner, Sam'l Chandler, L. Watson, Wm Reynolds, L. W. Miller, W. Alves, R. Walker, Jas. Gunmell, Geo. Carley, J. Beuner, Garrat Von Camp, J. Brown, Ira Anderson, Randal Wixon.
--It would appear from the above, that Mr J. G. Parker (son of Col. P. of Winchester in this County) is amongst those destined for Australasia (sic). Mr. P. leaves behind him a wife, and we believe several children. It is possible the British Government may give a new order.

[Jamestown Journal (NY), 27 February 1839]

From a Liverpool paper of January 5.

We have stated in another paragraph that Mr. Roebuck arrived here on Saturday, with judge's order to see the prisoners from Canada, confined in the Borough Gaol. The result of his visit, and the success of the exertions in their favor, may be inferred from the fact that twelve of the prisoners are to leave Liverpool on Tuesday next, by railway, for the purpose of having tested in the Court of Queen's Bench the validity of their sentence of transportation. The writs of habeas corpus under which they are brought up, have been issued upon the affidavits of Messrs. Hume and Roebuck, that the twelve prisoners alluded to have been sent to this country without trial. The question of the legality of the proceedings will, of course, excite much interest, and an opinion prevails that they will be acquitted. The names are

	Finlay Malcolm,	John Grant,
	John G. Parker,	Robert Walker,
	Paul Bedford,	Randall Wyon,
	Leonard Watson,	William Reynolds,
	Linus W. Miller,	James Brown,
	Ira Anderson,	William Alves.

[New York Spectator, 28 March 1839]

THE CANADIAN STATE PRISONERS.

    We have had in our possession for some time, copies of several letters written by Mr. John G. Parker, one of the state prisoners from Canada, now in London, addressed to his wife. They are generally interesting, particularly to those who know the writer. Up to the period of the first outbreak in Upper Canada, Mr. Parker was a respectable merchant in that province; of late years he has been a resident of Hamilton, in the Gore district, and from a long personal acquaintance with him, he would have been one of the last men we should suspect of being likely to engage in rebellion. He was of so mild a disposition that his peaceful character had become a proverb. He was actively engaged in the leading benevolent subjects of the day--a highly esteemed member of the Presbyterian church; and we have oftem heard it remarked that in his family relations he was "a perfect model." Yet, unfortunately, he has been found, according to the legal acceptation of the term, guilty of constructive treason, by writing letters to sundry persons, in which, if we are correctly informed, he urged a change of government, and expressed his opinion that period had arrived for active measures. These letters were intercepted in their transit, and were the only evidence against him; and on these he was arrested in the fall of 1837.
    He was never brought to trial; but by the advice of some whom he considered his friends, availed himself of a law passed in the winter of 1837, and pleaded guilty, in the full expectation that a pardon would be extended to him by the Executive. Such, however, was not his good fortune; he was confined for some time at Hamilton, thence removed to Toronto--where he remained about five months, and was thence removed to Fort Henry, at Kingston. In the month of August several of the state prisoners escaped from Fort Henry, and all except Mr. Parker and one other got safely to the United States. The second day after they broke from their prison house, Mr. Parker and one of his companions were recaptured and taken back. Soon after those who had been tried at Niagara, and condemned for the affair at the Short Hills, were sent down to the same prison. Here they remained until the month of November, when they were sent off to Quebec, and thence to England. It has been stated that during the passage to Liverpool, the prisoners attempted to gain possession of the vessel, and that they had got off their irons, &c. So far as we can learn, and according to the evidence before us, in Mr. Parker's letters, there was no truth in the report. Mr. Parker speaks in high terms of Capt. Morton, commander of the "Captain Ross"--the vessel in which the prisoners were passengers to Liverpool.
    The language of Mr. Parker's letters shows him to be a Christian. There are no murmurs--nothing vindictive against any one, although the sufferings of the prisoners, from the time they left Fort Henry until their embarkation at Quebec, were very great. As we have not room for long extracts, we commence from letters written after Mr. Parker's departure from Quebec.

	AT SEA, 28th Nov., 1838,} Wednesday, P.M. }
	We went on board this vessel (the "Capt Ross") on the 22d instant, in the forenoon, and have proceeded thus far on our voyage without accident, having a favorable wind. I procured at Quebec a sufficient supply of sea stores, but we are so crowded they will probably do us but little good. Through the mercy of God I am favored with good health, although numbers are sick around me. This is not surprising, as seventeen of us are confined in a space five feet by ten, and a still less space is appropriated for seventeen others on the other side of the hatchway, making thirty-four prisoners. The only light we have is through a piece of thick glass, inserted in the deck and called a dead-light. It is dark between 3 and 4 o'clock, when we go to bed and lie (not sleep) until 8 or 9 o'clock next morning. Mr. Wait and myself were chained together, and have a berth for ourselves. Others are more crowded, having to stow 3 or 4 in each berth. The Rev. Mr. Osgood (who is a passenger in our vessel,) has been down to see us, and has given us two or three discourses. Being sick, he has not been down today. We spend much of our time in reading the scriptures and religious tracts. While I lie, during these long nights of darkness, here below, my mind is free. I can hold communion with my God and Savior, and, as Paul and Silas did, sing praises to God. I can bear up my dear family, from whom I am separated, to the throne of Grace who is able to raise up friends to them, and is able to bestow temporal and spiritual blessings which will be sufficient for their present good and eternal joy. Whether I shall ever be blessed with the joy of meeting them again on earth, is only known to Him who rules the winds and waves and reigns in the hearts of all flesh. May all things be so directed that I may yet glorify his name and be instructed in doing good in the world. 30th.--Snows a little. I was on deck a few minutes this forenoon, and saw the sun through a mist of snow. We obtained to day, from our trunks, some religious tracts, which all are engaged reading when they can get their heads near enough to the light to enable them to do so. Mr. Osgood was down this morning, and read to us a chapter from Doddridge's "Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul"--so rich and fruitful in its directions to lead the sinner to the Lamb of God, and also the Christian in the way that he may shine brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. Dec. 6.--I have been able to go on deck almost every day, for an hour or so at a time, which refreshes and relieves my spirits much. Yesterday, while thus enjoying myself, I had a chat with Capt. Morton, who appears to be a quiet and pleasant man, free from that boisterous manner which I have observed in some masters. He asked me if I had not felt the want of grog. I told him I was a te-totaler, and consequently above the want of grog. He remarked that his ship had since leaving England consumed a puncheon of spirits, and forty gallons of brandy--and that this was the last voyage he ever intended to make except on temperance principles--that he would never allow liquor on board his ship again, and spoke of the progress of the temperance cause among American ships. Mr. Osgood comes down and spends a few minutes with us in directing our minds to "the Lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the world." This morning the sea is more calm, so that the hatchway can be opened, and we get a breathing of fresh air. Last night I was able to eat a morsel of food, which is the first for six days past. I recollect that Paul, when he was on a voyage and a prisoner, spent fourteen days without food, and I have no doubt but his sufferings were far greater than mine are. 11th Dec.--The weather mild--spent two or three hours on deck, and amused myself making a pencil drawing of Captain Morton, from a neat miniature painting, and having the capstain for a table. This morning I enjoyed the taste of a boiled potato, and Captain Morton sent me yesterday a cup of ginger tea, which refreshed me much. It is now 4 o'clock, and I have been confined to my berth since 4 o'clock yesterday. I have a dim light, which enables me to read and write a little. I hoped to have been so situated on our voyage, as to have been able to have written out an address or memorial to Her Majesty, but our place is so confined, so many sick, and the air we breathe so foetid, that I can only lie in my berth in languor. Yet I can meditate on the goodness of Almighty God, by his protecting providence guiding us over the mighty deep; and I can lift my heart in prayer to his mercy seat. I can direct my fellow prisoners to embrace that Saviour whose arm is extended to the penitent and believing. I pray that you and our dear little ones may be encircled in his arms--that you may be kept from the evil of the wicked, and be blessed and supplied with kind friends, and those who will do you good, in this day of calamity and affliction. I find my ancle (sic) getting a little lame. I shall give you a description of the irons which bind me:--a bar of rounded iron is fastened round my ancle, which at the smallest place measures 3 1/4 inches in circumference, and 6 1/4 inches at the largest place by the joint. Fastened to this band is a link or clevis, which measures 10 inches in circumference at the place of connection. Into this clevis is fastened an iron chain of 26 links, measuring about 7 feet in length, each link is 2 inches in circumference. The other end of it is fastened to Wait's ancle, so we carry the chain between us. The weight of our "moorings," as the sailors say, being about 40 pounds. Being accustomed to them, we carry them about very well, though we find some difficulty in getting our ancles and feet warm, the coldness of the iron rendering it almost impossible. 17th Dec.--We are now in St. George's channel, with a favorable breeze, a pilot on board, and will probably be in Liverpool to-day. Captain Morton has showed me many civilities on the passage, and I may say that I have crossed the Atlantic with much less suffering than I could have expected, considering our confined condition. The seaon, the weather, the wind have all been favorable, and we have had a remarkably fine journey. January 1--I spent in writing little mementos to various individuals, who had sent in their names for them through Dr. Archer, (the excellent and gentlemanly surgeon of this establishment,) and Dr. Buck. We have had a multitude of visitors. Many have been the applications, but the authorities have thought it best to prevent it, which has given us the more time to read and write, &c. Our living has been comfortable, and our durance here has been such as will call forth many pleasing reflections hereafter. I have had presents from different unknown individuals in Liverpool, and many invitations to visit persons here, if released, with offers of bed, bread, &c. until I should leave for America. LIVERPOOL, Jan.15--"My dear Jane: This is my ninth letter to you since I have been in England; some I know have been lost in the shipwrecks; I know not how many. Sabbath, the 6th instant, was the last I spent in Liverpool. At daylight the Governor called into our ward, and ordered me to attend church with him at 10, with the other eleven prisoners, So I got ready in time, and we marched through alleys and walks to the chapel, a long building adjoining the prison establishment, which covers two or three acres of ground, all walled in. There were nearly 500 prisoners present, who had their seats. I was led to a front slip, prepared for us near the Governor's slip, and so that the whole congregation were looking on the prisoners. Dr. Buck soon came in, and the whole service was pleasing, impressive, and, I trust, profitable. Dr. Buck preached a new year's sermon; evangelistic, faithful, and sound; pretty high Calvanistic; the singing was very good, with an organ, not of first order; the chanting of the Psalms and Litany was very well; and I attended again in the afternoon, much to my edification and comfort. This is the first day I have been in a place of public worship since the 3d December, 1837, thirteen months, and upward of five months in Fort Henry, and not a word from a minister of any kind--no offer to preach, pray, or exhort to any prisoner there. But in England I have scarce passed a day but I have a clergyman call on me. Oh if I could but now receive from you a letter with assurance of all being in good health, and your wants and necessities comfortably supplied, my heart would be lightened. Although the hand of oppression be raised against us, yet let us possess the spirit of forgiveness towards them, and constantly show that state of mind and actions towards them, as to heap coals of fire upon their heads. But I will continue my narrative.--On Monday, the 7th inst., the storm and wind continued. We were to have started for London on Tuesday. We packed our luggage; I stowed my own as close as I could. My feather-bed and bedding, which has been the greatest comfort to me of anything, by which I have been usually comfortable and clean, and managed so as to sleep alone. While at Liverpool I had every kindness shown me by the officers of the prison, and every one else that I saw. I got all my bed-clothes, sheets, and blankets well washed, and all my linen done up as well as Ann could do it herself--and all for nothing; they would not take a copper from me. On account of the storm the Governor proposed to await a delay going to London until Wednesday. I was with the governor in his office till 9 o'clock, and we arranged to start at 3 o'clock, A.M. We were well stocked with provisions, a boiled ham, and bread and cheese to take us to London. Our twelve prisoners, with four keepers, including the Governor of the jail, filled one of the cars, which we kept to ourselves all the way to London, with our luggage packed on the top. If we had been travelling in Upper Canada, they would have required a guard of 30 to 40 men to guarded 12 prisoners. The governor took his seat beside me, and pointed out every thing worth noticing. We soon came up to Wolverhampton, a famous place for iron manufactures. I used to import hardware from this town; great numbers of high chimneys and forges; much smoke. I hope Ferdinand and Augustus meet your wishes in their good and correct deportment; that Horatio, Elizabeth, Johnny, and Melancthon are improving, and my little Willy growing fine and fat. O my dear Jane, when will the time come that we shall be able to recite to each other the scenes we have passed through since this separation?"

The latest date we have is of the evening of January 20.

    My Dear Jane--I hope you have received my former letters--this is my twelfth. I am now very anxious about you and the children. It is now more than three months since I have heard a word from you. Yesterday my case was brought before the Court of Exchequer, but my presence was not required. This morning, while reading the arguments of counsel, I was summoned to appear before the same Court at Westminster. I was in readiness in a moment, and accompanied by the governor of the Liverpool jail, I was in court in a trice.
    I entered while the solicitor general was replying to the arguments of our counsel, made yesterday--the attorney general having already proceeded.
    We remained at court until about 4 o'clock, when I got in a cab with Mr. Batcheller, and drove up to my old quarters in Newgate. When we came to the messy iron gate, the door-keeper would not admit us. What, said I, not let us into jail! and what will you do with me, then? After waiting for half an hour, arrangements were made for my entry, and I was again within hospitable walls. I suppose our detention was until an order could be received from the government office.
    And now, my dear wife, what will be your situation during this suspense and anxiety, and in what condition will be our dear children? I fear you will not be able to realize much, if any thing, from collections, and in that case your resources must be exhausted. These fears so harrass my mind, that I cannot but be anxious for you. But be of good courage, and put your trust in our heavenly Father, who is able to make all these troubles result in our eternal good. I hope that all out dear children are dutiful and obedient to you--that no opportunity is lost in bringing them up in the nurture and fear of the Lord. I fear dear Caroline has lost all her music. How often, my dear, have I reflected on the happy moments that I enjoyed in hearing her place and sing my favorite "Sweet Home!" Ah! shall I ever again listen to the voice, and that, too, under my own roof, and by my own fireside. My trust and confidence is in Him who rules the hearts of all men, and in whose hands I rejoice to be--who can deliver me from every trouble, and support me under every sorrow.

[New York Union Herald, 13 April 1839]

John G. Parker and his Associates.

    We have just finished reading from the Rochester "Gem," an account of John G. Parker, and his associate prisoners, as copied from the "True Sun" of London, where they are now awaiting the decisions of Government. The high character and personal accomplishments of Mr. P., especially as disclosed in contrast with the barbarous treatment of the Canadian authorities, have created sympathies almost universally in his favor. It is about eighteen months since he was apprehended for high treason, since which time until his arrival in England he has been borne about in irons, stowed away on the decks of prison ships among horses, or in fetid prisons; enduring privations and sickness and insult with a fortitude sustained alone by his own conscious integrity, and now finally sentenced to be transported to Van Dieman's Land for 14 years without even the form of a trial.
    From all that we can learn he has been guilty of no overt act against the Government, but has employed his talents in favor of reform and those Union Associations that were thought proper in carrying out that object. Mr. Parker denies any intention to produce the insurrectionary movements that followed his arrest, and as his letters charged as treasonable, were mostly written to Royalists, it is very evident that his designs were in conjunction with many others of both parties against the abuses of power, and urging a reform by motives equally strong upon Patriot and Loyalist. Since his arrival in England he has received the most marked attentions from the first society, multitudes visiting him and soliciting a few touches of his pencil as mementos of their regard to his high character and patriotism.
    His great crime in Canada under the mechanical instruments of power, constitutes his glory among the reformers of Old England. His forty pounds of iron fall from his oppressed limbs, his prison becomes a palace, and the governors his associates, and the first talents of the nation volunteered to plead his cause and restore him to his usurped rights. The Court of Queen's Bench has decided against him it is true, but then such men as Lord Brougham except to this decision. The Court of Exchequer, a co-ordinate tribunal, is his next resort, which if that fails to do him right, an appeal to Parliament and Royal favor is still before him. We fully believe that his case will succeed and he be restored to his bereaved family.

[The Ohio Statesman (Columbus, OH), 26 April 1839]
The following letters are published in the Kingston Chronicle as constituting the grounds on which the author was charged with Treason. The Chronicle says their authenticity may be fully relied on, being obtained from an official source.--They read thus:
(Private) HAMILTON, 6th Nov. 1837
My Dear Sir.--By what I can learn the Md. Dist. is asleep, while the Upper Country are gloriously waking up. Political Unions are forming all over the Gore District, still quiet but effectually, of 40 each, choosing their own secretary or leader--giving a list of their names to W. L. M'Kenzie, the Corresponding Secretary, and are ready to act at an hours notice. I am informed that the Home District is well officered--in many places the Unions drill weekly, &c. &c. 1500 names returned--the London Dist. is not behind--the Scotch and old U. E. descendants are all thorough radicals, determined and resolute men.
Do set things a going in the Midland--it seems there is nothing doing there--there is not a Soldier in the Garrison at Toronto.
Truly Yours,
JOHN G. PARKER

[The Union Herald (Cazenovia, NY), 15 June 1839]
THE CANADIAN PRISONERS.--The Exchequer Court of England delivered their judgment in the case of John G. Parker and his associate prisoners on the 6th of May. The opinion was that they ought to be remanded for trial for High Treason, for which they were indicted in Canada, and for which they were liable to be tried in England, where measures should be taken for their immediate trial, if they had not or could be lawfully transported. Lord Chief Baron presided in Court.

[New Hampshire Sentinel (Keene, NH), 17 July 1839]
Lord Brougham has deeply interested himself for Mr. John G. Parker and the other Canadian prisoners in England, and has shown to the high Court that Parker plead guilty only to avail himself of the proclamation of amnesty. He speaks in high terms of Parker:
"He had never seen a more clear, lucid and impressive statement of facts than was presented in their petition, therefore he did not think he could do better for the petitioners than to present the statement to the House.
"He had had correspondence with Mr Parker, one of the petitioners, and had made it his business to make some inquiries respecting him. In the result he had found that he had been in a most respectable station of life, and universally admitted to be an honest and upright man. As to the others, he had been assured they were generally respectable."
"Mr Parker's offence was that of having written a letter containing treasonable expressions. Some of the petitioners had surrendered from the terms of the proclamation, which offered a free pardon to all who should surrender, except to the six persons named in that proclamation. The Governor was not then in a situation to grant a pardon for treason, whereupon an act was passed in the province of Upper Canada, enabling the Executive to grant pardons to those who should confess their offences and petition for the same, with such conditions as the Governor should think fit to annex to such pardons."

[Jamestown Journal (NY), 31 July 1839]

From the N. Y. Commercial Advertiser.

London, July 4, 1839.

RELEASE OF THE CANADIAN PRISONERS.

It affords me great pleasure to inform you that the government have determined to release Mr. John G. Parker and the seven other Canadian prisoners who pleaded guilty to the charge preferred against them in Upper Canada, in the hope of receiving her Majesty's pardon. My opinion is, that the order for their release will be issued this day.
Lord John Russell sent to them on Monday, demanding whether they would enter into security not to enter the province of Upper Canada, or to approach near its borders, provided the government should release them. Yesterday the prisoners returned an answer. They say, that having no desire to enter Upper Canada, they are willing to enter into the required bonds; but ask to be permitted to enter the province at any future period, provided either of them can obtain the permission of the colonial government to do so.
Up to 3 o'clock on the afternoon of the 5th instant, no order for their discharge had been received.

[Albany Evening Journal (NY), 20 August 1839]

Correspondence of Commercial Advertiser.
THE CANADIAN PRISONERS

I informed you some days ago that the Canadian prisoners would be released about the 4th of July. It was not done on that day but a few days after and while I was reading a letter from Lord , informing me of the fact, Mr. John G. Parker, called and afforded me proof positive. Those discharged are John G. Parker, R. Wixon, William Alves, R. Walker, Finley Malcolm, Leonard Watson, James Brown, Ira Anderson and Paul Bedford. Two others were in prison when I left London--Linus W. Miller and John Grant. I hope something may be done for these young men. For one of them, Miller, you will recollect, I interested myself last summer, after his sentence to suffer death at Niagara. It has been my advice, and that of others, to those men who have been recently discharged, that they never again take any part in a scheme so mad as that for which they have so long suffered. I hope they will settle in the United States and become good citizens.

[New Hampshire Sentinel (Keene, NH), 18 September 1839]
Mr John G. Parker and his friends have arrived at New-York, we perceive, by a card of acknowledgements to gentlemen in England who interested themselves to procure their liberation.

[Vermont Phoenix (Brattleboro, VT), 20 September 1839]

PARKER, THE CANADIAN PRISONER.

The Buffalo Republican publishes the following letter lately received by Mrs. Parker, from her husband, one of the individuals sentenced to transportation to Botany Bay, for their participation in the rebellion in Canada, but who have been released by the British Government. Mr. Parker is now on his way home.

London, July 27, 1839.

My dear Jane--I have not had a line from you since the 7th of June. I expected to have heard from you by the Liverpool. You may have written by private hands, and if so, it will not probably reach me.
It will be a pleasure to you to hear, as it is one for me to make known to you, that I am this morning embarking on board the packet ship "Wellington," for the "land of the free," and with me, my fellow sufferers, after a close confinement of nearly twenty months, viz: Randal Wixon, Leonard Watson, Paul Bedford, Finlay Malcome, James Brown, Robert Walker, Ira Anderson, and William Alves. Since my liberation on the 13th inst. I have been treated with the utmost kindness and hospitality, from distinguished and most respectable gentlemen and their families, to whom I have been introduced.
In leaving England, I cannot but carry with me a grateful remembrance of the assurances of sympathy and good will from many persons--expressed towards me and my dear family, and also the most lively emotions of gratitude to Wm. H. Ashurst, esq. solicitor of the city, the friend of humanity, who has conducted our cases through the courts of the law, most ably and most successfully, and with our talented counsellors Messrs. Roebuck, Hill, Falconer, and Fry, have succeeded to admiration through an up hill work, and in opposition to much combination of power, to this happy deliverance from captivity.
This will go out by the Liverpool Steamer, and of course will arrive a few days before us.
Give my love to all the children and remember me also to my kind friends.
I am sorry to say that Linus Miller and John Grant have been removed to Portsmouth for transportation.
Your affectionate husband,
John G. Parker

[Vermont Phoenix (Brattleboro, VT), 27 September 1839]
John G. Parker, Esq.--It gives us much satisfaction to be able to say, that this victim of Canadian tyranny arrived in this city on Thursday night, where he found his family in health, and was cordially greeted by a large circle of friends. Snatched away from his business as he was, and his property falling into the hands of miserable harpies as it did, his losses must have been immense; but he still rejoices in the assurance that all things shall work together for his good--Rochester Dem.

[Vermont Phoenix (Brattleboro, VT), 1 November 1839]
JOHN G. PARKER, ESQ.--This victim of Canadian tyranny passed through this place on Wednesday of last week, on his way to visit his father, Colonel Parker, in Winchester, N.H. Mr. Parker was imprisoned upwards of 20 months, and liberated in England in July last, through the efforts of Mr. H. Arhurst, Esq. London, and other distinguished gentlemen of the English bar, in sustaining his case through the courts of law.
Mr. Parker we understand has taken up his residence in Rochester, N. Y. where he was met with a warm reception by his family and many friends, on his return from captivity.

[New York Spectator, 12 December 1839]

John G. Parker, the convicted rebel from Upper Canada, who was lately pardoned by the British government, has been arrested on the charge of offering altered $5 bills in exchange for segars (sic) purchased.--N. Y. Evening Star.

We find this paragraph, credit and all, in the Montreal Courier. As for the credit, we feel almost confident that the Courier has given it where it does not belong; for we see the Star every day, and certainly we never saw in it the statement above quoted. If we had, it would have been earlier corrected.
In justice to Mr. Parker we beg leave to inform the editor of the Montreal Courier that the charge against him is altogether false. There was a man arrested in this city, some time ago, for offering a counterfeit; and if we remember right, he called himself J. G. Parker. But he was a different person from John G. Parker, formerly of Upper Canada.--That gentleman is now in Rochester, and has been there ever since his return from England.