" Charles Tho. Isham
Journal Swan River
1796"
[Cover]



" Swan River North America 1795-96 Journal of Occurences and Transactions by Charles Thomas Isham Commencing October 9th 1795 and Ending May 1796"

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Oct. 9 1795
" Friday - At 1/4 past Noon, I arrived at Swan River House with 2 Canoes, and found all well except John Johnston Jun. who has got a very bad Thumb. - Mr Hallett who I left as Summer Master had procured about 760 MB but very little provision in the House on my arrival Mr Hallett had already sent a few Men to the House I was at last winter, with Trading Goods as the Canadians is there also, and no Natives resides hereabouts at present. - so that no Trade can be expected to be made here. - Fresh breezes Westerly - Clear & Cloudy Alternate."

Oct. 10
" Saturday - Sent George Grey & Thomas Halcro to Somerset House for a supply of Provisions as we are poorly off at present. - Myself, Mr Hallett & Mr Fidler making an overhaul of the Trading Goods. Hugh Johnston a young hand bad with a sore Foot. - Fresh breezes at NNE with Snow in the Eveng."

Oct. 11
" Sunday Fresh Gales at NNE with Snow most part of the Day."

Oct. 12
" Monday - People variously employed and packed up some bundles of Trading Goods to convey to Somerset House the first opportunity; Mr Belleau the Canadian Master here, went to the above place this Day with 2 Men & 2 Horses loaded with goods. I understand he is to Winter there - Set a Nett. - Clear & Cloudy alternate, & light breezes at WNW."

Oct. 13
" Tuesday - The Men returned that went away on Saturday last & Wm Sinclair along with them; with 3 Horses Loaded with Provisions - Sent 6 Men to take wood to make Wedges & Mallets off to pack furrs with next Spring - John Johnston Jun. & Hugh Johnston still remaining the same both incapable of duty - Light breezes at SSW flying Clouds."

Oct. 14
" Wednesday - Employed preparing Goods & Stores in readinefs to set of to Somerset House tomorrow - Two Canadians with 2 Horses loaded with Goods set off to the above place this Day - Wind Southerly with flying showers of Rain."

Oct. 15
" Thursday - At 8 AM the following people accompanied me to Somerset House Viz. Mr Hallet & Fidler also John Johnston Sen.. John Johnston Jun., George Grey - Wm Mowatt - Robert Whitley, Geo. Short, Geo. Robertson and Robert Wilson also Wm Sinclair. - with Three Horses loaded with Trading Goods, went about 2 miles above the upper crofsing place and put up - Left Thomas Halcro, Hugh Johnston & Henry Thompson at Swan River House; in care of it. Fresh breezes at N with flying Showers of Snow."

Oct. 16
" Friday - Went about 25 Miles and put up about 10 miles from the House. - in the evening two of our men Came from Somerset with a supply of Provisions to us - as we are very scarce of victuals. - Light airs at WNW, forenoon cloudy and Cold - afternoon Clear and Warm."

Oct. 17
" Saturday - At 10AM arrived at Somerset House and found all well - Howee Sabeston had traded about 150 MB since his arrival here which is about 3 Weeks ago - in the evening 5 Indian Men arrived at our House and brought a few furrs and a small quantity of Dry provision - Light breezes at NW Cloudy weather."

Oct. 18
" Sunday - Fresh breezes at NW Clear & hot. The Indians traded and part of them went away."

Oct. 19
" Monday - Got every thing ready and set off to the Red River to build a new House there. the Indians inform me that the Canadians have began to build there, right in the Track of Indians coming to this House - they also say that Mr Sutherland from Albany is far advanced up the Red River with 2 large Batteaux loaded with Trading Goods, far above where he Wintered last Year - Got the lent of severel Horses from the Indians to convey Goods to the Red River. the following people accompanied me Mr Fidler, Thomas Brown, Wm Mowatt, Charles Hay, George Grey, Mag. Cooper, George Short, Wm Sinclair, Geo. Robertson, Rob. Wilson and Robert Whitley - leaving at Somerset House Mr Hallett Master, Howee Sabbeston, John Johnston Sen., John Johnston Jun., Adam Kirknefs, John Gun; - went to the Big Beaver Dam and put up - Light breezes at SW Clear & hot - several Natives accompanies us."

Oct. 20
" Tuesday - at 6 1/2 AM got underway and crofsed Swan River (a third time) at 10 1/2 AM - went 'till 5 PM and put up - Strong Gales at SW hot weather."

Oct. 21
" Wednesday - At 7 3/4 AM got underway and arriv'd at the Red River at 2 1/2 PM - went up it about 5 miles and came to the Canadians who is building - they have very near finished their House - found 6 Tents of Natives here; in the evening traded a few Furrs and a little meat - No Wood here to build with but small crooked Asp - all the Pine being in a Swampy situation - An Indian Man arrived here in the evening - he spoke to Mr John Sutherland from Albany last night - his Batteaux are very near Marlboro House, where I wintered 2 Years ago - he is going to erect a House thereabouts - Fresh Gales at NW with frequent showers of Rain & snow."

Oct. 22
" Thursday - All hands employed building a house 22 by 26 feet about 150 Yards from the Canadian House - put up the Upright posts and laid three tier of Logs - Traded with the Indians - Light breezes at WNW - Clear fine weather."

Oct. 23
" Friday - Set of to meet Mr Sutherland (from Albany) and to borrow a little Tobacco and Powder, as the small quantity I brought with me from Somerset is all expended - and all the rest is at Swan River House and cannot be brought here until Snow falls. - Several Indians pitched away from the House - Men employed, in building the House, got in the frames of the Windows - One of our horses stolen last Night. - Light breezes Southerly, Clear hot weather."

Oct. 24
" Saturday - Returned from Mr Sutherland with the lent of 20 lb of Tobacco & 21 lb of Powder. he is going to erect a house near where I wintered in 1793 - the reason of my borrowing the Tobacco and Powder was, that Several Tents of Stone Indians is expected here daily. - and all being expended of each of the above Articles, that I could bring with me from the other House - arrived here two Tents of Indians. - Got the outer wall of the House up except a few Logs. - Light breezes Westerly Clear Fine weather."

Oct. 25
" Sunday - Light breezes at SE Clear and Cloudy alternate - Traded a few Beaver Skins."

Oct. 26
" Monday - Sent 2 Men with 3 Horses to fetch Goods from Swan River & Somerset Houses - The Indians went away that arrived the 24th Inst. - Got the Beams & Ridge pole on the House - Engaged an Indian to Hunt for the House during Winter. - Light breezes & Cloudy."

Oct. 27
" Tuesday - Got all the Poles upon the House ready for Grafs and Mud - and closed both the ends in. received one half Beaver from the Hunter - I am under the necefsity of borrowing a small supply of Provisions from the Canadian Master here. received from him the flesh of 2 Beaver, one Side of Ribbs, a brisket & a thigh - this is the first time I was ever necefsiated to get any supply from the Canadians - but very frequently have supplied them, when they have been very near starving. Sent George Grey and an Indian Man with 3 more Horses borrowed from the Indians to fetch Goods from Swan River House, the Hunter pitched from the House and in the evening he returned with the flesh of One Red Deer - Fresh breezes at South, Clear fine Weather."

Oct. 28
" Wednesday - Men employed fetching home Grafs, and covered the House with it and Sand as no mud is to be got near here - arrived 6 Tent of Stone and 3 of Southern Indians - Traded a few Furrs and a little fatt. - Light breezes at SE Overcast, evening gentle Rain."

Oct. 29
" Thursday - Mudded the out side of the House and got a few stones to build the Stove with - Indians Traded and most of them went away. got from them about 120 MB. - and a little Dry provision - 5 Horses belonging to Indians stolen from the House last night - Mr Coller?, a Canadian Master belonging to the old Company, arrived here from Somerset House, he is going to erect a house along side Mr Peter Grant, about 4 miles off at a small Lake. - The last person arrived there the 23rd Inst. and began to build, he is one of a new Company that first came into this interior part of the Country 2 years ago. The proprietors entered into an agreement for 3 years, and this Year their Contract will expire, and I believe will not come in again - as they are all nearly ruined for the old NWest Company uses every method to put a stop to their further proceeding in giving an immense quantity of goods to the Natives for very little returns. - Light Airs with gentle Rain most part of the Day."

Oct. 30
" Friday - Eleven Tents of Indians arrived here, they have been at the Canadian Houses lower down this River and have Traded all their Furrs & Provisions. The 2 Men returned that went to Somerset the 26 Inst. - and brought one Horse loaded with Trading Goods - the other 2 Horses, the men at Somerset House is to attend to Swan River, to fetch Goods upon - the Hunter arrived and brought the flesh of one Red Deer. Mudded the inside of the House. Fresh breezes at SSE Cloudy weather."

Oct. 31
" Saturday - All hands employed building the Chimney - Those Indians that came here yesterday went away - Wind variable Clear and Cloudy Alternate, hot weather."

Nov. 1 1795
" Sunday - Light Airs from the North, with heavy rain all Day."

Nov. 2
" Monday - All hands building the Stove. Fresh breezes at NW Cloudy & Clear Alternate."

Nov. 3
" Tuesday - Finished the Chimney- An Indian Man & boy brought 2 horses loaded with fresh Buffalo meat. They have brought it about 20 miles off - Light breezes Easterly, warm weather."

Nov. 4
" Wednesday - Sent 4 Men to saw Wood, for Floors and Doors - the rest making partitions of small round Asp - brought home boards for 2 Doors - Mr Peter Grant, came here, to get the lent of 2 Days provision, neither himself have had any these 3 Days past and nothing to subsist upon but Sugar and Chocolate which they have expended all. - but unfortunately could not supply him at this time not having above one Days victuals by us. - Geo. Short incapable of Duty occasioned by a pain in his head - Light breezes at ESE hazy & hot."

Nov. 5
" Thursday - Received 2 Beaver from the Hunter. Men variously employed about the House - Heavy Gale at NW, with Snow and Sleet."

Nov. 6
" Friday - The Hunter arrived and brought the part of 2 Red Deer. also arrived from Somerset and Swan River Houses Geo. Grey - John Gun, John Johnston Jun. whose Thumb is very near well and the Indian Man, with 4 Horses loaded with Trading Goods. - Fresh breezes at NW, Clear weather."

Nov. 7
" Saturday - Mr Peter Grant sent over his Linguist for a supply of Provision if we can spare it - as they have not any thing to eat - gave him 25 lb of beat mear and 30 lb off Fatt and told him to send people tomorrow and I would spare him a little fresh meat - Sent 2 Men to the Hunters Tent to fetch the Remainder of the 2 Red Deer and a Moose another Man Killed; in the evening they returned with all of it being 2 horses loaded - Wind and Weather as Yesterday."

Nov. 8
" Sunday - Fresh Gales at WNW morning Cloudy the rest of the Day Clear and Sharp. - Two men from Mr Peter Grant came here for meat, gave them as much fresh meat as both of them could carry away."

Nov. 9
" Monday - Two Men at the Pit Saw, the rest mudding the Partitions and putting up Mr Fidlers Cabbin, Wind Variable with thick Snow."

Nov. 10
" Tuesday - 2 Men at the pit Saw, and the rest began to build a victual Shed 10 feet square.Fresh breezes at NW, Cloudy Cold weather. Wm Mowatt bad with a pain in his head."

Nov. 11
" Wednesday - Wm Mowat rather better. Thomas Brown taken bad with a pain in his head - so that nothing is done at the pit Saw. - the rest finished the Victual Shed ready for Grafs and Mud. - The Hunter arrived with word to fetch 2 Moose - sent One Man with 2 Horses to assist bringing it home. - Light breezes at S fine warm weather."

Nov. 12
" Thursday - Entirely finished the Victual Shed - One Man returned from the Hunters Tent with One Horse load of meat - Light breezes at SE, cloudy and pretty warm."

Nov. 13
" Friday - One Man making and hanging the Trading Room Door - 2 Men laying part of my Floor and the rest cleared the rubbish from about the House - Thomas Brown still bad with a pain in His head. - Sent One Man to the Hunting Tent. Light breezes at WNW Clear fine Weather."

Nov. 14
" Saturday - The Hunter ad one man brought 3 Horses loaded with meat - Arrivd 3 Tents of Indians and Traded from them about 80 MB and a little half Dry Beavers flesh. Calm Clear weather."

Nov. 15
" Sunday - Light breezes at NW Overcast and rather Cold - Indians drinking."

Nov. 16
" Monday - Set Geo. Short and Robert Whitley to the pit Saw - Thomas Brown, Wm Mowat and Robert Wilson incapable of Duty; the rest cut firewood."

Nov. 17
" Tuesday - Two Men at the pit saw - those in the Sick list still the same - the rest collecting Dry wood in the Hummocks a little distance from the House. - Light breezes yesterday and this Day, Clear and Cloudy alternate."

Nov. 18
" Wednesday - Light breezes at NE morning Cloudy afternoon Clear. those in the Sick list as before. - the rest as Yesterday - Myself at work at a Beaver House and got one half Beaver."

Nov. 19
" Thursday - Fresh breezes at SE Overcast Wea. Received from the Hunter 4 Beaver. Those in the Sick list as yesterday - Two Men laying part of my Floor and the rest did other necefsary Jobs about the House - Myself and One Man at a Beaver House and Got One Small Beaver. The Indians that arrived here the 14th Inst. have been daily working at Beaver Houses and has killed 12 Beaver."

Nov. 20
" Friday - Fresh breezes at NW forpart Cloudy afternoon Clear and warm - Thomas Brown Wm Mowatt & Robert Wilson as before - George Short bad with a soar hand - and Robert Whitley taken bad with a pain in his head, similar to Tho. Brown and Wm Mowatt - Sent One horse to the Hunters Tent - received 3 unskin'd Beaver from the Indians the rest mudded part of the House afresh and repaired the Hearth."

Nov. 21
" Saturday - Wind & Weather as yesterday - All those in the Sick list as yesterday - the rest cut firewood - Gave the Men a pint of Brandy each as the House is finished."

Nov. 22
" Sunday - Wind and Weather as Yesterday."

Nov. 23
" Monday - Fresh breezes at NWbN Morning Overcast - afternoon clear - Received 5 Beaver from the Hunter - Those in the sick list as before except Robert Wilson who is something better - Four Men prepairing to go to Swan River to fetch Trading Goods - The rest cut firewood - the Indians that came here the 14 Inst. pitched away down this River."

Nov. 24
" Tuesday - Wind and Weather as yesterday - Men cut firewood - 2 Indians arrived here with a little dry provisions. Those in the Sick list as before."

Nov. 25
" Wednesday - Light Airs at ESE, Clear sharp weather. The Ind. returned that arrived yesterday - and one more arrived with provisions - Robert Wilson, is now so far recovered as to do his duty - Thomas Brown getting better every day - also Wm Mowatt & Geo. Short. Robert Whitly exceeding bad so as not to turn himself in Bed - Sent Charles Hay, Geo Robertson, John Gun and Magnus Cooper to Swan River for Goods - They took furrs with them that I trade at this place. Wm Sinclair & Robert Wilson cut firewood."

Nov. 26
" Thursday - Light breezes at NWbN, Overcast Weather - Snow fell last night 4 1/4 Inches - Those in the sick list as before except Robert Whitly who is a great deal worse, people sat up with him all Night - his pains is so excruciating that what he says is quite unintelligible - and not the least thing he can eat. but has an immoderate thirst and keeps continually drinking. he is in a very high feaver - which I am afraid will carry him off - The 2 Men cut firewood."

Nov. 27
" Friday - Light breezes at SE overcast weather. Wm Mowatt and Thomas Brown getting better very fast - but still incapable of Duty - Geo Shorts Hand got well - Robert Whitly still growing worse - the rest cut firewood - At 10 1/2 PM Robert Whitley unfortunately departed this Life after a short illnefs of only Eight Days - The disorder of which he died we supposed to be a Feaver, he has been daily growing worse since the disorder first took him. altho every thing we could administer for his relief. had no effect."

Nov. 28
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday - with light Snow - Employed making a Coffin and Grave and in the Afternoon interred the Remains of Robert Whitley. Wm Mowatt & Tho Brown recovering fast."

Nov. 29
" Sunday - Light breezes at NW Overcast and light Snow last night."

Nov. 30
" Monday - Light breezes at WNW & overcast. Robert Wilson taken ill with a pain in his head and breast - The other 2 in the Sick list as Yestd'y. the rest cut firewood."

Dec. 1 1795
" Tuesday - Wind & Weather as yesterday - Robert Wilson worse - two men sat up with him all night - he has frequently fainting fits and a severe pain in his chest. - The rest cut firewood."

Dec. 2
" Wednesday - Light breezes at NE, Overcast wea. Robert Wilson something better; Wm Mowatt and Thomas Brown both having a voilent purging - the rest cut firewood."

Dec. 3
" Thursday - Light breezes at SE, Overcast weather.Men in the Sick list as yesterday. an Indian brought the flesh of a Buck Moose to our House."

Dec. 4
" Friday - Wind as yesterday with light Snow. - Wm Mowatt getting better, also Robert Wilson - Tho. Brown worse than usual - 2 Men sat up with him all night - took a little Blood from him - at intervals he is in a manner distracted and raving - and at others he speaks very sensible. - his Tongue is as dry as a Chip and hard, that he can scarse speak to be understood but with great difficulty - The rest cut firewood."

Dec. 5
" Saturday - Light breezes at SE Overcast wea. Those in the Sick list as yesterday - at 2 PM the Men that went to Swan River for Goods ret'd along with John Johnston Sen. - They brought 5 Sledges and One Horse loaded with Trading Goods. They bring the unfortunate account of Adam Kirknefs breaking his Collar bone but I understand it is in a fair way recovery - they also bring word that another new Company is come up, who have never been here before, and have built a house about 2/3 of a Mile above Swan River House - two Canoes of Them and 10 Men, with 40 Pieces of Goods of various sorts - They have also built another house, along side Somerset where they intend wintering at, as not any thing is to be procured at Swan River - all the Natives is up in the Barren ground - and as there is houses near them, in that part, they will not come the distance of 100 miles when they can get whatever they want nearer home. Two men sat up all night attending the Sick. - An Indian Woman brought 2 horses loaded with meat to our house - which I traded."

Dec. 6
" Sunday - Light breezes and variable, light Snow. Mr Peter Grant came over here, and he took about 4 Oz. of Blood from Robert Wilson, as he is still groing worse - Thomas Brown still very bad, two Men attends him night and Day - The Hunter arrived and brought 3 Beaver and word to fetch the flesh of two Moose. Wm Mowatt getting better very fast."

Dec. 7
" Monday - Light breezes at SE and overcast - Sent 2 Men to Saw Boards. Wm Mowatt recovered so that he Works at his own businefs (as Taylor) - Robt Wilson & Tho. Brown both very bad. the rest did other necefsary Jobs."

Dec. 8
" Tuesday - Fresh breezes at NW overcast Wea. 4 Men arrived here from Mr John Sutherlands for Victuals and to give them a supply - if we can spare any - Sent 4 men to the Hunters Tent for Meat - 3 to return and one to stay there. Two Indians arrived here and brought a few furrs. Those in the Sick list as usual except Thomas Brown who is a deal worse than before - Men cut firewood. The Hunter returned to his Tent."

Dec. 9
" Wednesday - Fresh breezes at SW,Clear Weather - at 3 ?, Thomas Brown unfortunately departed this Life - about the 28 Inst he was getting better very fast, and used to walk about in the Day time - a voilent purging troubled him much and in going out of Doors to ease himself - he unluckily caught cold which threw him into his former disorder (a Fever) which attacked him more violently than it did in the first beginning of his illnefs and carried him off - every thing that myself a neighbours knew was given him, that we thought could ease his pain, or otherwise, ease him; but all had not the least effect - Robert Wilson got out of bed Which is the first time since he was taken ill this last time - Two men returned from the Hunters Tent with meat and One staied behind to afsist bringing a Doe Moose to the Tent another Indian killed - The rest employed making a Coffin and Grave - Gave Mr Sutherlands Men a supply of Provisions and they returned."

Dec. 10
" Thursday - Light breezes at ESE Clear and Cloudy alternate - in the Afternoon interred the Remains of Thomas Brown. - Robert Wilson something better. Mag. Cooper ret'd from the Hunters Tent with a Horse load of Meat. - An Indian Man arrived and brought a few furrs and a little dry meat."

Dec. 11
" Friday - Light Breezes at SW Clear Weather. Sent One Man with one Horse to the Hunters Tent to fetch meat - Four Men prepairing to Set off to Swan River for Goods - the rest variously employed: In the Afternoon One Man came from Mr Sutherlands for a supply of Provisions. Robt. Wilson on the recovery."

Dec. 12
" Saturday - Light breezes at ESE Overcast. Sent 4 Men to Swan river - with 8 bundles of Furrs - the rest cut firewood - Mr Sutherlands Man returned with a supply of Provisions - Two Men came from the Hunters Tent with 2 horse loads of meat - there is also another killed at the Tent."

Dec. 13
" Sunday - Light breezes at NW Clear wea. Myself & Mr Fidler paid Mr Sutherland a visit - One Man went to the Hunters Tent."

Dec. 14
" Monday - Light breezes Westerly Clear wea. Returned from Mr Sutherlands - Men cut firewood."

Dec. 15
" Tuesday - Light breezes at NE & thick rime. Sent 2 Men to fetch meat from the Hunters Tent. arrived the Blind Man & John Gun from thence with a horse load of meat, Two men cut firewood. Myself & One man making Candles."

Dec. 16
" Wednesday - Wind and Weather as Yesterday. The Indian man & John Gun returned to the Hunters Tent & the 2 men arrived from thence with 2 Sledges of meat - 2 men mudding the inside of my apartment - An Indian arrived and brought a few Furrs and a little Provision. Robt Wilson something better."

Dec. 17
" Thursday - Wind as before & light Snow. Men cutting dry wood and making preparations for making Soap tomorrow."

Dec. 18
" Friday - Wind and Weather as Yestd'y. Two men making Soap - and the rest cut firewood."

Dec. 19
" Saturday - Wind and Weather as Yestd'y. An Indian Man pitched to the House - and I engaged him to hunt for Mr Sutherland - as he informed me that he could not engage one, nobody coming to his house - and he is very badly of for Provisions and has been for above this Month past - Robt Wilson as before."

Dec. 20
" Sunday - Light breezes at NbE Overcast Wea. John Gun & the Hunter came to the House & brought 4 Beaver - they inform me that no Animals is in that Quarter - and he intends to move to some other place - as soon as he has made Sledges & Snow Shoes for himself & family. The Hunter returned in the Evening. Men as before."

Dec. 21
" Monday - Fresh breezes at NNE & light Snow. Men cut firewood - The Indian man I engaged to hunt for Mr Sutherland set off to his house. Robert Wilson upon the recovery."

Dec. 22
" Tuesday - Wind as Yesterday, with Snow, most part of the Day - Mr Hallett and 4 Men with 4 Sledges of Goods from Swan River arrived. The Hunter & Family pitched to the house in order to make Sledges & Snow Shoes."

Dec. 23
" Wednesday - Light breezes at NW, Overcast. Men cut firewood - The Hunter went after Red Deer from the House and killed one."

Dec. 24
" Thursday - Light breezes at SE & Overcast. Sent one man & a Horse to fetch home the Red Deer killed Yesterday - The rest cut firewood."

Dec. 25
" Friday - Light Airs at N, forepart overcast afternoon Clear."

Dec. 26
" Saturday - Light breezes at S. Clear Weather. An Indian arrived and brought a few furrs."

Dec. 27
" Sunday - Light breeze and variable with very warm weather and thawed much. The Hunter pitched from the House - Robt Wilson very weak - and has a swelling settled into his Feet."

Dec. 28
" Monday - Fresh breezes at NW, Clear Wea. The Hunter arrived with word to fetch the flesh of 2 Red Deer. Sent 3 men for it and in the Afternoon they returned with 3 Sledges - The others prepairing to Set of to Swan River House Tomorrow."

Dec. 29
" Tuesday - Myself, Mr Hallett and 5 Men set of for Swan River with 5 Sledges loaded with Furrs Provisions &c. Left Mr Fidler in care of the House during my absence which will be about 10 Days - as I intend to visit Somerset & Swan River Houses before my return - and to see how things go on at both places - Men did necefsary Jobs about the House - Light breezes at N hazy Weather - Robt Wilson as usual - being very weak and has a swelling in one Foot which prevents is walking out to the fresh air."

Dec. 30
" Wednesday - Calm, Overcast & Rime. Taylor making Cloaths - Wm Sinclair making a Sledge - George Robertson and George Short both bad with a sore hand each."

Dec. 31
" Thursday - Light Airs at NE Clear and Cloudy alternate - Taylor making Cloaths - 2 Indian Men arrived and brought about 40 MB - The rest as Yesterday."

Jan. 1 1796
" Friday - Light breezes at NE Overcast & Snow. Traded with the Natives that came yesterday."

Jan. 2
" Saturday - Light Airs NE nearly Clear. - The Indians went away - Taylor at his Duty and the rest cut firewood."

Jan. 3
" Sunday - Light Airs at SW Clear warm wea."

Jan. 4
" Monday - Clear middle of the Day - morn. & evening Clouds - & Light breeze at SW - Men as before."

Jan. 5
" Tuesday - Fresh breezes at NE Overcast and cold - 4 Indians arrived and brought very little with them - they brought word for us to fetch flesh, the Hunter has killed 2 Red Deer. Men as before."

Jan. 6
" Wednesday - Fresh breezes at N, Clear & sharp. The Indians returned - Sent Two Men for meat - The others as before."

Jan. 7
" Thursday - Fresh breezes at SE Overcast and Cold - Sent one Man to fetch the Remainder of the Red Deer, that the people Yesterday could not bring - Men at the House as yesterday. Robert Wilson recovering fast but yet incapable of Duty."

Jan. 8
" Friday - Fresh breezes at N Clear and Cloudy alternate - Myself & 4 Men returned from Swan River with 4 Sledges of Trading Goods - An Indian arrived and brought a few Furrs - the rest as before."

Jan. 9
" Saturday - Light breezes at NE, with Rime falling - Men as yesterday."

Jan. 10
" Sunday - Light Airs at NW Clear and Sharp. Early this morning word came from the Hunters Tent to fetch four Red Deer the Hunter has killed - Told John Johnston Sen. & William Mowatt to fetch part of it, but they both peremptory denied - as its being Sunday - it has always been a custon Inland to fetch the meat whenever it was killed - therefore think the above two persons rightly deserving your Honours displeasure in neglect of their Duty."

Jan. 11
" Monday - Light breezes at NE & Overcast - Sent 7 Men to fetch the Meat - in the evening they returned. - George Robertson, very ill these Two Days past, occasioned by a loosenefs?"

Jan. 12
" Tuesday - Fresh breezes at ENE with light Snow. - Two men making a large Sledge to haul wood upon - Taylor at his respective Duty and the rest cut firewood - Two Bungees arrived Traded a little Liquor and returned immediately. Robt Wilson & Geo Robertson as before."

Jan. 13
" Wednesday - Wind as yesterday, nearly Clear. Two men taking staves to make small rundlets off - People as yesterday."

Jan. 14
" Thursday - Fresh Gales at N Clear and Cloudy alternate - Word came from the Hunter to fetch One Red Deer. Men as Yesterday."

Jan. 15
" Friday - Sent Two Men to fetch flesh and they returned with it in the evening - One Man making small Rundlets. Taylor as usual - and the rest cut firewood - Light breezes variable and Clear weather."

Jan. 16
" Saturday - Fresh breezes at NNE with light Snow - An Indian Man & boy arrived here and brought a few Skins. Men as yesterday."

Jan. 17
" Sunday - Light breezes at W Clear weather. Supplied Mr Peter Grant with the flesh of One Red Deer - he has had no victuals this three Days past - and all the Winter hitherto has been in great want of Provisions."

Jan. 18
" Monday - Light Airs at W Clear and very sharp. Farenheits Thermometer 48 Degrees below the Cypher - Taylor at his duty & the rest doing necefsary Jobs about the House."

Jan. 19
" Tuesday - Light Airs and variable Clear and exceeding sharp - Ther. -49. Men employed as Yesterday - George Robertson recovered as to do his Duty - Robert Wilson in a mending way."

Jan. 20
" Wednesday - Fresh breezes at NE & Snow. One man making Rundlets & the rest as before. Mr Peter Grant sent his Hunter to the Gods Lake to kill Buffalo."

Jan. 21
" Thursday - Fresh Gales at NW with flying Showers of snow and Warm weather. Robert Wilson is now got perfectly well thank God - and nobody ailing at the House, which has not been the case this long Time past - Men as Yesterday."

Jan. 22
" Friday - Wind as Yesterday. Cloudy & Cold - Men as before. Taylor making a Coat for the Hunter."

Jan. 23
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday- Clear & very cold. Word came to fetch Three Moose - Sent 4 Men to fetch it - The rest employed making Sledges."

Jan. 24
" Sunday - Light breezes variable Southerly Clear & Sharp - Sent Two Men along with the Hunter to stay with him - as he is going to pitch to the Barren Ground to kill Buffaloe."

Jan. 25
" Monday - The men returned with the flesh of Three Moose - and the Rest Cut firewood - An Indian arrived at our House with a little Provision. Fresh breezes at W. Clear cold weather."

Jan. 26
" Tuesday Light Airs and variable, Clear. Sent one Man to the Hunter with ammunition and to tell him to go immediately to the Buffalo. he returned - & brought 5 Parchment Skins with him - says that the Hunter was left the Tent when he arrived there - and gone to the Buffaloe. the rest cut firewood."

Jan. 27
" Wednesday - Fresh breezes at NW & Clear. Men variously employed - an Indian arrived for Tobacco."

Jan. 28
" Thursday - Light breezes at W & Clear. Men as Yesterday."

Jan 29
" Friday - John Gun arrived from the Hunters Tent with a Sledge load of buffalo meat & word to fetch more; the Hunter has already killed five - Light Airs Westerly Clear. Men as before."

Jan. 30
" Saturday - Sent 6 Men to fetch meat - Taylor at his Duty - Wind & Weather as Yesterday."

Jan. 31
" Sunday - The Men returned with Six Sledges of Buffalo meat - Light Airs Southerly with Snow all forenoon."

Feb. 1 1796
" Monday - Sent 4 Men to fetch Meat from the Hunters Tent - and Mr Fidler accompanied them, he is to stay a Day or two and return. The rest cut firewood - Light breezes at SSE - Clear & Cloudy alternate."

Feb. 2
" Tuesday - The men returned with 4 Sledges of Buffalo meat - The rest cut firewood - Fresh breezes at NW Clear & Cloudy Alternate."

Feb. 3
" Wednesday - Sent 3 Men to fetch more meat from the Hunters Tent as he is killing the Buffalo faster than we can fetch it to the House - Taylor at his Duty; and the rest cut firewood - Fresh breezes at SSE & Clear."

Feb. 4
" Thursday - A variety of Winterly Weather. Mr Fidler and the three men returned from the Hunters Tent - The rest as Yesterday."

Feb. 5
" Friday - Sent 4 Men to fetch Meat & the rest as usual - cut firewood - Light breezes at NW Overcast Weather."

Feb. 6
" Saturday - The Men returned from the Tent with 4 Sledges of Buffalo meat. The rest as before. Wind & Weather as Yesterday."

Feb. 7
" Sunday - Fresh breezes at SSE Overcast Wea."

Feb. 8
" Monday - Light breezes at SE with drizzling Rain - Sent 4 Men to the Hunters Tent for meat and I accompanied them as the men inform me the Buffalo is all Gone away. and we have not got a sufficient quantity of Meat to last us while we stay here. Two Stone Indians arrived here for Tobacco they slept four nights in coming to the House."

Feb. 9
" Tuesday - Light breezes variable and drizzling Rain - The men returned with their Sledges loaded with Buffaloe Moose & Red Deer's meat. The Stone Indians returned and the Men cut firewood."

Feb. 10
" Wednesday - Light breezes at NW and a gentle Thaw - Sent 4 men to fetch meat."

Feb. 11
" Thursday - Wind SE light breezes and Weather as Yesterday - Myself and 4 Men returned from the Hunters Tent with 4 Sledges of Buffalo meat - The Buffalo are numerous all around the Hunters Tent - and no signs of their going off so soon as represented before."

Feb. 12
" Friday - Fresh breezes at W Clear & Warm. Sent 4 men to the Hunters Tent for Meat & to give Orders, only kill as much more as will load 4 Sledges, which will be a sufficient quantity to serve us during our stay here, which will be until the Latter end of March or the Beginning of April."

Feb. 13
" Saturday - Fresh Gales at E - Overcast Wea. The Men returned with 4 Sledges of Green & 1 Sledge of Dry meat - The others cut firewood."

Feb. 14
" Sunday - Wind and Weather as Yesterday."

Feb. 15
" Monday - Light breezes, variable & Overcast. Sent 4 Men to fetch meat, and to tell the 2 Men staying at the Tent to come home, as we have a sufficient quantity - of meat - The rest Cut firewood."

Feb. 16
" Tuesday - Light breezes at E & thick rime. The men returned from the Hunters Tent Along with John Gun & Wm Sinclair who have been staying there since the Latter end of last month - brought 4 Sledges of meat with them. Taylor at Work, & the rest cut firewood. Mr John Sutherland came to our House & to see if? we could supply him in any Provisions as his men have been at short allowance this while past. - Gave the Men Allowance of Brandy."

Feb. 17
" Wednesday - Wind and weather as Yesterday. Mr Sutherland returned and gave him a whole Cow Buffaloe. - an Indian came for Tobacco and returned - Taylor as before."

Feb. 18
" Thursday - Wind & weather as Yesterday - 4 men getting ready to set off to Swan River with Furrs - The men cut firewood - a few Indians arrived & brought a few furrs and a little Dry provision - The Hunter also came to the House."

Feb. 19
" Friday - Fresh breezes at SE with very thick Snow & Drift most part of the Day. - Rigged the Hunter and paid him for his hunt'g during the Winter - Sent 4 Men to Swan River Loaded with furrs & provisions - Taylor at his respective duty - and the rest cut wood. Sent orders to Mr Hallett, to leave Somerset House (as nothing is to be got there) and to accompany his Hunter to Swan River & to hunt there - as that place is badly off for Provisions in the Spring until the Canoes leaves the house."

Feb. 20
" Saturday - Fresh Gales at NNW, Overcast and Cold - The Indians all went away - Men's employ as Yesterday."

Feb. 21
" Sunday - Gales as Yesterday, Clear & Drift."

Feb. 22
" Monday - Wind as before Overcast and Cold & much Drift."

Feb. 23
" Tuesday - An Indian arrived and brought a little dry provisions - also John Johnston Jun. from Somerset House & Adam Kirknefs accomp'd him to Mr Sutherlands where he stayed to make Clothes for him and Indians according to my order, as Mr Sutherland had no Taylor and was greatly distrefsed for want of one. - Men collecting Dry wood - Wm Mowatt, the Taylor at his own businefs - Breezes at WNW, Clear in the forenoon, cloudy latter part of the Day and pretty warm."

Feb. 24
" Wednesday - Fresh breezes at NE Clear and Cloudy alternate. - The Men as before."

Feb. 25
" Thursday - Light breezes & variable & Clear. Men as Yesterday."

Feb. 26
" Friday - Fresh breezes at ENE with thick Snow & Drift most part of the Day - Men making Soap - & Taylor as usual."

Feb. 27
" Saturday - Fresh Gales at NW Overcast and very Cold - Men as Yesterday."

Feb. 28
" Sunday - Two Men arrived from Swan River & Adam Kirknefs accompanied them from Mr Sutherlands he has been working at his businefs there and have finished very near every thing he wanted making - The Other 2 Men stoped at Somerset to fetch the flesh of 4 Moose Mr Halletts Hunter has killed - Our Hunter brought some Dry provisions to the House - An Indian arrived here, and just paid his Debt - haveing nothing left but Provisions; off which I have got as much as can be conveyed to Swan River, which is a great distance to haul it being at least 120 Miles. Wind and Weather as Yesterday."

Feb. 29
" Monday - Fresh Gales at NW Clear and very Sharp - Seven Men prepairing to Set off to Swan River house tomorrow with Sledges as usual Loaded with furrs and Provisions Fatt &c."

Mar. 1 1796
" Tuesday - Sent 7 Men to Swan River with 7 Sledges loaded with Furrs & Provisions. Two men besides my Cook remained at home and cut firewood - Fresh breezes at WSW Clear."

Mar. 2
" Wednesday - Fresh Gales at WSW Clear and very sharp - Men as Yesterday."

Mar. 3
" Thursday Wind and Weather and Men's Employ as Yesterday."

Mar. 4
" Friday - Light breezes at SE with light Snow. Men as before."

Mar. 5
" Saturday - The Two Men arrived that stoped at Somerset - They say that Mr Hallett will be ready to leave that place about Tuesday next. - Fresh breezes at NW, Clear & Sharp. Men as yesterday."

Mar. 6
" Sunday - Fresh breezes at SW Clear weather."

Mar. 7
" Monday - Fresh breezes at S, Cloudy & afterwards clear. - Two Indians came for Tobacco Yesterday and returned this morning. Men cut firewood."

Mar. 8
" Tuesday - Light breezes at SW Clear & Warm - Arrived 6 Men from Swan River - The rest cut firewood - also several Indians came in with their whole Winters Hunt which amounted to only 52 MB."

Mar. 9
" Wednesday - Wind & Weather as Yesterday. Traded with the Natives they have but very few furrs, and a great quantity of Provisions. four Men getting ready to go to Swan River."

Mar. 10
" Thursday - Sent Four Men to Swan River with 4 Sledges of meat - Taylor at his duty and the rest cut wood. - The Indians returned - Light Airs Southly and thawed in the middle of the Day."

Mar. 11
" Friday - Fresh breezes & variable warm weather - People as Yesterday."

Mar. 12
" Saturday - Do. at N, warm, the Snow greatly deminished yesterday & this Day - Men as before."

Mar. 13
" Sunday - Fresh breezes at SE & warm. Our Hunter brought 2 Sledges of Dry meat."

Mar. 14
" Monday - Fresh breezes at WNW, Clear Weather - Men's Employ as last Week."

Mar. 15
" Tuesday - Light breezes & variable, light Snow. People as Yesterday."

Mar. 16
" Wednesday - Fresh breezes at NE with thick Snow most part of the Day. Taylor at Work & the rest cut wood."

Mar. 17
" Thursday - Arrived 4 Men & Tho. Halcro from Swan River he has been staying at that place all winter in care of it with 2 Men more - Mr Hallett arrived the 14 Inst at Swan River - Men as before - Light breezes at W Clear & pretty warm."

Mar. 18
" Friday - Men prepairing to set of to Swan River Tomorrow - Light Airs at SE Overcast & warm."

Mar. 19
" Saturday - Sent 11 men with 11 Sledges to Swan River loaded with furrs & Provisions. Only Myself Mr Fidler & the Cook stayed at home - Fresh breezes at NE Overcast and Cold Weather."

Mar. 20
" Sunday - Light breezes at NE & Overcast - An Indian came in for Tobacco & returned."

Mar. 21
" Monday - Three Tents of Indians arrived and brought 100 MB - they are the best for? furrs I have seen this year yet - rigged One Man which is only the third rigged this Season - Fresh Gales at NW - a good quantity of Snow fell in the Night."

Mar. 22
" Tuesday - Fresh Gales, Clear Sharp Wea. Indians drinking."

Mar. 23
" Wednesday - Wind & Weather as yesterday."

Mar. 24
" Thursday - Light breezes at SE Clear & Warm. Mr Coller a Canadian Trader left his House this Morning - & Mr Peter Grant left his about 4 Days Ago - but 3 of his men is staying there until the others return from Shell River which is about 40 Miles off."

Mar. 25
" Friday - Light breezes at SW Overcast and pretty warm."

Mar. 26
" Saturday - Seven Men returned from Swan River the other 4 will be here tomorrow - Fresh Gales at N overcast and Drift."

Mar. 27
" Sunday - The other four Men arrived from Swan River - Light breezes at SE with Snow."

Mar. 28
" Monday - All hand employed packing up Furrs and Goods to convey to Swan river as Soon as pofsible - No Indians is coming this way; and the Season is already far advanced to stop any longer as the Snow will soon be off the Ground and then there is no pofsibillity of sending Goods &c upon flat Sledges - Light breezes at NE Clear and Cloudy Alternate."

Mar. 29
" Tuesday - Employed as Yesterday intending to set off Tomorrow - the Indians went away - Light breezes at NE & thick fog."

Mar. 30
" Wednesday - Early this morning all hands left Carlton House with three Horses loaded and eleven flat Sledges with Furrs, goods & Provisions went to Mr Sutherlands & put up - Fresh Gales at SW, Clear & thawed much."

Mar. 31
" Thursday - Left Mr Sutherland and went about 22 Miles & put up - Wind & Weather as Yesterday."

Apr. 1 1796
" Friday - Got off early and arrived at Somerset House at 9 1/2 AM - Fresh Gales at West, Clear & thawed much - Nearly all the Snow melted in the plains which makes it very bad & heavy hawling."

Apr. 2
" Saturday - at midnight left Somerset House went about 23 Miles and put up - not any Snow left in the plains - it is all melted and above half Lay? deep in Water which makes it very heavy & bad hawling. Wind & Weather as Yesterday - Swans Seen the first this Season."

Apr. 3
" Sunday - Got off pretty early and arrived at Swan River House at 2 PM very much fatigued the road being so bad. - The Water at the Crofing places above one foot deep on the River - Found Mr Hallet and all well here. The Hunter has killed two Moose since his arrival here from Somerset House. Fresh Gales and variable with flying Showers of Snow in the Morning."

Apr. 4
" Monday - Employed Drying the Furrs and Goods we brought with us - they are all as wet as if lain in the River a whole Day - Several places being above 3 feet Deep that the Sledges were obliged to pafs - Several Canadians arrived last night with 6 Sledges loaded with pimmicon which was all spoilt by the Wet. - Fresh breezes & variable, morning Cloudy and afternoon Clear."

Apr. 5
" Tuesday - Fresh breezes and variable, hot weather - People variously Employed - The Hunter arrived at the House - Rigged him and gave him a Keg of Liquor as usual - Ducks first Seen."

Apr. 6
" Wednesday - Wind and Weather as yesterday - Eight men prepairing to Set off to collect Pitch tomorrow - The others variously Employed - Ice brocan? up in several places in the River - and the water rose considerably. Geese seen this Day, the first this Season."

Apr. 7
" Thursday - Fresh breezes at N Cloudy Cold weather with Snow in the morning. - Sent 8 Men to collect pitch - Two to set a Net at a small Creek near Swan Lake - Two making Wedges and Mallets and the rest variously employed."

Apr. 8
" Friday - Light breezes at NE, Clear & sharp. The men returned from Pitch hunting with only One Quart each man - the Ground they say is intirely overflowed by Water - The Hunter returned - Three Men making Soap - and the rest making Mallets & Wedges for the Beaver Prefs. Water rising in the River and the Ice broke in several places."

Apr. 9
" Saturday - Sent 4 men to gather a little more pitch - and returned in the evening with about three Gallons - Three Men finished the Soap which will be about 50 lbs - Sent one Man to the Fishing Tent - ? he returned says they have caught nothing as yet - The rest taking wood for Paddles - Fresh breezes at South, Clear and hot."

Apr. 10
" Sunday - Fresh breezes at N, Clear Wea. The Two men came from the fishing Tent as nothing is to be got at present."

Apr. 11
" Monday - Light breezes at NE Clear fine weather - Packed 22 Bundles of Furrs. Received 4 unskined Beaver from the Hunter."

Apr. 12
" Tuesday - Packed 20 Bundles of Furrs - Light breezes at S Clear and hot. Ice moved a little."

Apr. 13
" Wednesday - Myself & One Man went a hunting and killed 1 Swan - 4 Geese & 6 Ducks. River Clear of Ice opposite the House - One Man making Cloaths for the Hunters Children and the rest beating Beat Meat - Wind and weather as Yesterday."

Apr. 14
" Thursday - Wind & Weather the Same. River intirely clear of Ice - Two men repairing a small Canoe - and the rest as Yesterday - Myself & One man hunting got 4 Geese & several Ducks."

Apr. 15
" Friday - Fresh breezes and variable very hot weather Thermometer +72. Made 10 Bags of Pimmicon - myself & One Man went in a small Canoe to Hunt Beaver."

Apr. 16
" Saturday - Fresh Breezes at S Overcast & Warm - Mr Belleau and all his men from Somerset House. & the Other New Companys People about a forthnight Since - Men making Fettles for Bundles - Sent 2 Men up the River in a small Canoe to hunt Beaver."

Apr. 17
" Sunday - Fresh breezes and variable with heavy Thunder & Rain."

Apr. 18
" Monday - Light breezes & variable Clear warm Weather - people variously Employed."

Apr. 19
" Tuesday - Fresh breezes & variable with flying Showers of Hail & Snow. The Two Taylors at their respective Duty."

Apr. 20
" Wednesday - Sent 2 Men to Set a net in a Swamp about 2 Miles from the House - They returned with 32 Jack Fish - The rest variously Employed - Cloudy & Wind N - light breezes."

Apr. 21
" Thursday - Fresh Gales Southerly, Clear warm weather - Got 20 Fish, Men making Paddles."

Apr. 22
" Friday - Wind as yesterday - with flying Showers of Rain - Got 38 Fish - Received two Small Beaver from the Hunter - Men's Employ as Yesterday."

Apr. 23
" Saturday - The two men returned that went to hunt Beaver - and brought 3 Small Bea. & one Otter - Took up the Nets and got 50 Fish. Sent one man to the Hunters Tent - the rest as before - Light breezes & variable flying Clouds."

Apr. 24
" Sunday - Fresh Gales at N Cloudy Weather."

Apr. 25
" Monday - Fresh Gales at SSW flyg Clouds. The Taylors at their respective Duty and the rest getting Roots - for repairing the Canoes."

Apr. 26
" Tuesday - The Man I sent to the Hunting Tent returned in Company with the Hunter and brought the flesh of 4 Beaver - Men variously Employed - Fresh breezes at NE Clear fine Weather - The water rising very fast in the River."

Apr. 27
" Wednesday - Light breezes at S Clear fine weather. - Men employed repairing the Canoes - Sent 2 Men to set a Nett. the Hunter ret'd to his Tent accompanied by One of our People."

Apr. 28
" Thursday - Light breezes at East Clear and hot - Men repairing the Canoes - Also got 68 Fish from the Netts - Served the Men out One Days fish. and they all returned them again as no fatt was served with them - of? all the Dry Provisions in the house of every kind are not exceed 4 Days and the fatt is very little in proportion to the Beat meat - which was the reason I did not give them any this Time. - At all other Places Viz. at Cumberland & to the Northward their principal living is upon Fish only - and it is very surprising that the People here cannot eat fish one Day without Fatt."

Apr. 29
" Friday - Fresh breezes at ESE Clear & hot. Told the People to repair the Canoes - and not one man would do any thing on account of Fish being served out Yesterday without fatt - which I had not to give then - as it will be served out along with the Beat Meat."

Apr. 30
" Saturday - Wind & Weather as Yesterday. People repairing Canoes."

May 1 1796
" Sunday - Fresh breezes & variable hot wea. The Hunter and one Man came to the House with the Flesh of one Buck Moose."

May 2
" Monday - Light Airs & variable with heavy Rain all afternoon - The Hunter returned and One man accompanied him - Cold weather could not work at the Canoes."

May 3
" Tuesday - Fresh breezes & Variable with flying showers of Rain - Two Taylors at their respective duty - men variously employed."

May 4
" Wednesday - Fresh breezes at NE Clear & Cloudy Alternate - Swan Lake clear of Ice. Sent 2 Men to set a net & they returned with 48 Fish - The rest as yesterday."

May 5
" Thursday - Sent 2 men to take up the Nets & they brought 16 Fish - The Hunter ret'd accompanied by Geo. Robertson with the flesh of One Moose & 4 Beaver - Pitched 2 Canoes ready for embarking - Fresh Gales at NW fly'g Clouds."

May 6
" Friday - Fresh Gales at N Clear weather. Men working at the Canoes - The Hunter ret'd."

May 7
" Saturday Light Airs & variable hot weather. Finished repairing the Canoes & pitched them."

May 8
" Sunday - Wind and weather as yesterday."

May 9
" Monday - Fresh breezes Northerly with flying showers of Rain - Men prepairing to embark for York Factory tomorrow if weather permit."

May 10
" Tuesday - Fresh breezes at NE Clear weather - Got every thing in readinefs to embark tomorrow. - Two Canoes of Canadians embarked for the Great Portage. -
Charles Thomas Isham."

" A Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Jos. Colen
Swan River House 12th May 1796
Dr Sir,
Have sent down Mr Hallett with three Canoes and he will deliver you all the Books Papers &c - the other Canoe I dispatched to Cumberland to afsist bringing down Furrs from thence.

The Trade now sent down rather exceeds the last year - but is? was with the greatest difficulty procured - and the men complained much on the great distance they had every thing to haul from Swan River to Carlton House (a new one erected last fall) there not being any conveyance by Water as this River above the House is intirely choaked up with Shoals.

The Trade the next Year I much fear will fall short of this - as there are such a number of different Interests from Canada this winter there being no lefs than Seven different houses in opposition to me, and considering the small afsortment of Goods I had and those formidable rivals I had to contend with - it was with the utmost difficulty I procured what I did.

Mr John Sutherland from Albany came up the Red river last fall with two Batteaux loaded with Trading Goods &c and wintered at the elbow of the said river, where I did in 1793 - he says he shall be up again this Summer with at least four Batteaux - and it is obvious that the Trade in these parts can be carried on to much greater advantage from Albany than York, as they land their Goods by Water at their Door and we have at least 120 miles to transport every thing overland - and this Summer the Canadians are going to build about 40 miles higher up the river than before - therefore I think the men that are stationed at Swan river could be employed to much more advantage to the Company by sending them up the Saskechewan or to the Northward, than by keeping them at this place where there is scarce anything to be got. - and, I am very agreeable to go to any other place I might be appointed to, and could render our Honourable Employers much more service than by staying here - And compairing the number of men at Swan River (and the small Trade made here) and a like number from the Saskechewan it will be found after an impartial investigation, that the same number of hands from the last place, brings down more Furrs, than the Same number of Men from Swan River - hence it is obvious that those Men that are stationed at Swan River would be of more service to the Company if sent up the Saskechewan or to the Northward, than by Keeping this place up.

It is with the greatest concern I mention to you the death's of Robert Whitley and Tho. Brown who unfortunately departed this life last Fall - and the lofs of two such good Men I felt much particularly when I came to man the Canoes this Spring.

In case you think it requisite to keep this place up - I wish you would dispatch the Canoes as soon as pofsible from the Factory - and as they will only make one trip - should wish them to have 12 large pieces in each Canoe besides a small parcel or too - as they have plenty of Time and the distance to Swan River is not great.
I conclude with wishing you an early sight of the Ship, health & every hapinefs the Season's and Natives can afford.
I remain
Dr. Sir
your obt. hble Serv
C. T. Isham
P.S. Please to give my compliments to the Gentlemen around your Table."


" A Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Geo. Sutherland
Swan River House 12th May 1796
Dr Sir,
Have sent one Canoe and four men to afsist carrying down furrs from Cumberland.
The Trade at this place rather exceeds the last year - but the Buffaloe being so very near prevented the Natives from hunting Furrs in this quarter - they had scarcely any thing else but provisions to trade - and having such a number of neighbours around me - it was the greatest good luck I procured what I did.
I conclude with wishing you every happinefs and Remain
Dr Sir
Your Obt. Hble Serv.
C. T. Isham
P.S. Please to give my Compliments to the Gentlemen around your Table."



B.28/a/1

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