With solid connections in Canada, Bell quickly established himself as a merchant trading in products such as wheat, meat, spirits, building materials, carriages, and horses.
During his affiliation with the American forces, he rendered services to people such as Brigadiers-General Richard Montgomery, David Wooster, and Benedict Arnold.
His knowledge of the area and his firm connections in trade allowed him to supply valuable and timely service.
After the Americans left Quebec, Bell offered his services to the British and was involved in construction on a variety of military projects.
In any case, both sides declined to settle debts he perceived were owing him when he encountered financial problems late in his life.