Published in 1831 in London, Emigration was written to convince those who have already decided to emigrate to choose Canada as a destination and not the United States. The author, who tried both countries and then picked Canada as the place to settle, first concentrates on climate, dispelling fears that Canada is "a country covered with eternal snows, and scarcely fit for the habitation of a civilized being." Hoping to attract hardworking, practical, and ambitious people, he then builds his case that Canada is a land of less expense and greater opportunity.