This painting by William Smith Sewell provides the observer with a view of Sainte-Ursule Street, in the heart of Québec City. Although several civilians are on the street, the eye is drawn to the many British soldiers. They watched over the five gates that controlled traffic between the city centre and outer districts. Given its strategic importance in the 19th century, Québec City was constantly patrolled by military in the mid-19th century.