Gardiner, Dr. Sylvester

There were many reports written about Newfoundland for and by British government officials in the 1600s - and 1700s, particularly about the feasibility of settlement and the effect settlement might have on the very - lucrative fishery conducted by the mercantile companies based in the West Country of England. One little - known report was this one, written by Dr. Sylvester Gardiner in 1785. One possible reason for its obscurity - is its recommendations in favour of settlement, something the West Country merchants had discouraged. - Gardiner's report is a very positive one, strongly supporting settlement, the development of judicial and - governmental systems, and promoting agriculture and timber cutting. It presents an optimistic picture of - the potential of Newfoundland as a valuable part of the British Empire, particularly with the recent loss of - the American colonies