A few Facts.

Every reader, perhaps, may not be aware that there is a strange contrast between the surface, soil, climate, &c., of the countries on the Atlantic side of the continent, and the countries on the Pacific Ocean side of the continent. British Columbia (English), Oregon, and California (American) are the three principal countries on the Pacific side. These are fine countries, but of course each has advantages and disadvantages. I know all of them, and in my opinion British Columbia, upon the whole, has been most favoured by nature, and is the best of the three countries for securing a homestead in—for the following substantial reasons.

Taking the whole year round, or taking a series of years, the climate is better for farming, and more healthy and enjoyable. The wheat, barley, and hops of British Columbia beat those of California, and her root-crops beat those of Oregon. British Columbia has more coal and better coal, finer harbours, superior fish, sounder trees. It is reasonably believed, and partly proved, that her mineral lands, containing precious metals, are very extensive. The public domain (which is at the disposal of the people of the province) is sold more cheaply; the taxation is immensely less; the laws are better carried out; the people have as much political freedom as men can desire.

These are facts which ignorance only can lead any person to gainsay, and I state them, at the outset, so that they may be examined and appreciated.