The turbulent argument of the tempest effectually convinced the settlers, that the original design of keeping them in community until they had fixed a local habitation, was the best expedient that in their circumstances could be adopted. But the fault lay in their own nature, and could only be changed in its direction, not expunged. A constant yearning for something new in scene or occupation is peculiar to emigrants, whether industrious or dilatory. The same spur in the side which impels them from their native land, goads them wherever they go, and is the main cause of that restless irritation characteristic more or less of them all.

While the association were busy under Andrew Gimlet in erecting the house of general shelter, all went on smoothly. The storm had silenced their crave for independence, they saw that without co-operation for some time they must incur hardships that might be lessened, and their patience and activity were commendable; but when it was finished, and their families had removed into it, new objects began to attract their attention aside from their duty, and the management of them became a task of delicacy and address.

Several of the Glasgow men being artisans and crafts’ men, Stockwell was intended chiefly for them, and those who might come after of the same kind.