Also at this time the laws in regard to the safety of vessels, the comfort of passengers, or precautions for health were very lax.

While the records of emigration experiences of British settlers to Canada and the United States are being recited by men and women yet living in Canada, the want of resource and the neglect of life and property by Governments and officials up until half a century ago are heart-sickening.

So the third ship of the fleet that was to carry the first human freight of Manitoba pioneers was the "Edward and Ann." She was a sorry craft, with old sails, ropes, etc., and very badly manned.

She had as a crew only sixteen, including the captain, mates and three small boys.

It was a surprise to Miles Macdonell that the Company would charter and send her out in such a state.