This is a virtually complete transcription of the Cumberland House Journal 1778-79 by Alex Nicol


" A Journal of the most remarkable Transactions and Occurrences at Cumberland House from 2d July 1778 to 8th June 1779 By Joseph Hansom."
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" By Joseph Hansom"



July 2 1778
" Thursday Wind easterly a fresh breeze Weather clear and Pleasant. At Noon Mr Tomison accompanied by four Englishmen and Indians set off for their Journey down to York Fort with 17 Bundles of Furrs for want of the afsistance of more Indians. 22 Bundles of Furrs are left behind. The Natives in general are not agreeable to go away as they can be supplied with their Necefsaries at home by the Canadian Traders - One Canoe arrived with some Moose Flesh which they Traded and return'd. In the Evening another Canoe came with 60 lb of Moose Flesh which I traded and finding him agreeable to go down to York Fort with Furrs I employed him and sent him off with four Bundles. He expects to overtake Mr Tomison to Night."

July 3
" Friday Wind Easterly a strong Gale dark cloudy Weather with Rain and Thunder till Noon afterwards clear. The Men employed in the Garden, late at Night two Canoes arrived with green Moose flesh to Trade."

July 4
" Saturday Wind SE with a heavey Rain and squalls of Wind till Evening then moderate clear Weather. sent two Men to the Nets one Sturgeon. the Ind. that came Yesterday went away. Traded from them 215 lb green Moose Flesh."

July 5
" Sunday Wind Easterly a strong Gale Weather cloudy with hard showers of Rain at times. three Canoes of Basquia Indians arrived with some Provisions."

July 6
" Monday Wind as Yesterday Weather cloudy with light Showers of Rain at times. The Indians that came Yesterday went away traded from them 84 lb beat Meat. In the Evening two Canoes arrived with green Moose flesh. The Men employed drying part of the Meat that came on Sunday."

July 7
" Tuesday A strong Gale Northerly with light showers of rain at times. the Indians that came Yesterday went away Traded from them 260 lb of Flesh. The men employed bailing the Water out of the Cellars and drying the green meat for Preservation."

July 8
" Wednesday Wind NE a small breeze Weather cloudy sent two Men to the Nets and to set another return'd not finding them that are set. The great rise of Water occasioned by the late Rains have overflowed them. The other two men drying of meat."

July 9
" Thursday Wind as Yesterday Weather cloudy with light showers of Rain at times. The people employed bailing the Water out of the Cellars and doing other odd Jobbs within doors."

July 10
" Friday Wind Northerly a strong Gale Weather cloudy. Two men employed in the Carpentering businefs. the other two about necefsary duty within doors."

July 11
" Saturday Wind Variable light breezes Weather clear and Sultry with a light shower of Rain in the Evening. The People employed bailing the Water out of the Cellars and attending the Nets. received four small Fish."

July 12
" Sunday Wind WSW a small breeze the first of the day the latter part heavey squalls of Wind and Rain with Thunder."

July 13
" Monday Little Wind variable dark cloudy Weather with drizzling rain at times. The Men employed at the new roof and taking off part of the old one. at Noon two Canoes of Superanuted Indians came to the House without anything."

July 14
" Tuesday A strong Gale easterly dark cloudy Weather the people employed as Yesterday at Noon seven Canoes of Pi,go,go,men Indians arrived with some dry Provisions to trade."

July 15
" Wednesday Wind variable light breezes Weather cloudy with Thunder and a light shower of rain in the Evening The men employed as Yesterday. traded the Provisions and a few Furrs (14 made Beaver) from the Natives that came Yesterday."

July 16
" Thursday Wind Northerly a strong Gale dark cloudy Weather with a continual rain. The men employed within doors."

July 17
" Friday Wind Northerly a stiff breeze till Noon in the Evening calm. The men employed two at work on the new roof the others airing the old Stock of Provisions."

July 18
" Saturday Wind variable light breezes Weather clear and pleasant. The people employed as Yesterday."

July 19
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday."

July 20
" Monday Wind WSW a gentle breeze Weather Cloudy. The men employed. Two in airing the Provisions. 30 lb of which I condemn'd, it being damaged: the other Men afsisting Magnus Twatt in fitting the false beams for the false roof on the North side of the House."

July 21
" Tuesday Wind WSW a light breeze the first of the day the latter part a strong Gale Northerly with drizzling rain. The people employed at the false roof. One Canoe arrived with a few skins and some dried Provisions to Trade."

July 23
" Wednesday Little Wind variable light breezes Weather clear and pleasant. The people employed as Yesterday. The Canoe that came Yesterday went away."

July 24
" Friday Wind SW a light breeze Rainey Weather with Thunder and Lightning all day. The people employed bailing the Water out of the Cellars and doing other work within doors."

July 25
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday hot sultry Weather.The men employed on the False roof on the North side which they finished."

July 26
" Sunday Wind variable light breezes with heavey claps of Thunder till Noon in the Evening a stiff breeze from the Northward and clear Weather. had divine Service."

July 27
" Monday Wind SW a light breeze Weather clear and pleasant. Sent two Men to take up the Nets as we have had no Succefs in them the Water being to deep. Rec'd 2 small Fish. The other two men at work on the new roof on the South side. In the Evening two Canoes arrived brought some Moose Flesh to trade."

July 28
" Tuesday Wind variable squally Weather cloudy with a heavey shower of rain in the Evening. The men employed two at work on the roof the others drying the Moose flesh that was brought by the Natives yesterday. at Noon one Canoe arrived brought a little dry Provision which they traded and Returned."

July 29
" Wednesday A strong Gale NNW dark cloudy rainey Weather the Men employed at work on the new roof."

July 30
" Thursday Wind Westerly a light breeze fine pleasant Weather. The men employed as Yesterday."

July 31
" Friday Wind as Yesterday a stiff gale with hard showers of rain at times, in the Evening calm and sultry. The men employed as on Wednesday."

Aug. 1 1778
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday a light breeze Weather clear and pleasant. The people employed as above and finished laying the new roof on the south side."

Aug. 2
" Sunday Wind Westerly a light breeze Weather clear and pleasant. One Canoe of Cow,win,a,tow Indians arrived brought some Fat to trade."

Aug. 3
" Monday Wind Westerly dark cloudy Weather till Noon afterwards clear with a strong Northerly gale. The people employed two men at work in the Garden the other man with Magnus Twatt fitting the false beams for the upper roof. traded the Fatt 80 lb from the Indians that came Yesterday."

Aug. 4
" Tuesday Wind NE a stiff gale dark Cloudy Weather. The men employed on the false roof."

Aug. 5
" Wednesday Wind Easterly dark cloudy Weather. The men employed as Yesterday."

Aug. 6
" Thursday Wind Westerly a stiff breeze Weather cloudy with drizzling rain at times. The People employed as on Tuesday. One Canoe arrived brought 20 lb dried Moose flesh to trade. the Indians that came on Sunday went away."

Aug. 7
" Friday Wind Northerly a stiff breeze Weather clear. the people employed as above. the Indians that arrived Yesterday went away."

Aug. 8
" Saturday Wind Easterly a light breeze Weather clear and pleasant, sent two men to set a Net, one man employed in the Garden. Magnus Twatt laying by with a lame leg which he hurt Yesterday when at work upon the false roof."

Aug. 9
" Sunday Wind variable from North to SE light breezes Weather clear and Sultry."

Aug. 10
" Monday Calm hot sultry Weather. The people employed two men airing the provisions one man and myself attended the fishing Net (one Sturgeon) Magnus Twatt lame. One Canoe of Superannuated Natives came to the House."

Aug. 11
" Tuesday Wind variable from SE to West squally with Thunder and Rain alternate. The men employed within doors about necefsary duty."

Aug. 12
" Wednesday Wind Southerly a light breeze Weather clear and pleasant. sent two men to the Nets no succefs.. one man at work in the Garden. two Canoes arrived brought some dry Provisions to trade."

Aug. 13
" Thursday Wind WSW a light breeze the first of the day in the Evening a strong Gale from the NW with Thunder and Rain. The people employed as Yesterday. at Noon one Canoe arrived from York Fort accompanied by one Englishman (James Leask) he informs me of four Canoes that are coming with Goods which he left five days ago in a River called Grafs River. he expects they will be here soon. in the Evening five Canoes arrived brought a little Provision."

" Copy of a Letter received from Mr Humphrey Martin
Dated York Fort 5th July 1778
Sir,
By the Arrival of Magnus Sclater and Indians with him on the 2d Instant. I had the Pleasure to receive a Letter from Mr Tomison dated May the 29th as it informed me of the health of all the Companys Servants Inland. yet I must own Sir I was greatly surprized and concerned for the great fall of Your Trade particularly so as the Trade at this place is so greatly fallen at present it not being 7000 this hath been partly occasioned by the death of several Bungee Indians and by the non arrival several others whom I am afraid are stopped by the Canadian Traders. let me entreat You Sir to exert Yourself to the Uttmost. I have given to Escon a Captains Coat as usual with every thing appertaining thereto. to We,see,pe,num a Lieutenant's ditto with ditto, to Wilks a plain Coat and bordered? Cap and to the rest of the Men and all the Women somewhat to encourage them, besides two Treats of Brandy and Tobacco, I have paid them 6 Beaver for each Bundle of Goods they are to carry Inland and have promised them 4 more for each from You on their delivering the said Bundles which are all tallied on the Inside the Contents as Per Invoice. with these Indians I send James Batt not having any other that can paddle a Canoe and can be spared. Our Friends at Churchill and Severn House were well by the Spring pacquets at the Former place a fine Fall Trade near 6000 in Prime Furrs. Wishing this party a safe arrival with You and all under Your Command Health and Happinefs; I remain
Sir
Your Humble Servant
Humphrey Martin"

Aug. 14
" Friday Wind WNW a stiff breeze Weather clear and pleasant. The people employed working at the false roof. traded the Provisions from the Indians that came Yesterday and paid the Indians for bringing up the Goods."

Aug. 15
" Saturday Little Wind variable Weather clear and pleasant. the people employed as Yesterday. five Canoes arrived brought some dried Provisions to trade."

Aug. 16
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Ten Canoes of Cow,win,o,tow Indians brought a few Furrs to trade also five Canoes arrived with Goods from York Fort."

Aug. 17
" Monday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Traded the Furrs 45 made Beaver from the Cow,win,o,tow Indians and paid the other Natives for bringing up the Goods. The People employed attending the Gates."

Aug. 18
" Tuesday Wind NW a strong Gale; Weather cloudy with drizzling Rain. the people employed at the false roof which they finished. In the Evening fitted out three Canoes of Natives to carry down 14 Bundles of furrs to York Fort, the Indians that came on Sunday went away."

Aug. 19
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a strong Gale till Noon afterwards Calm. The People employed airing some of the Goods that got wet in coming up. In the Evening sent three Canoes of Indians with 14 Bundles of Furrs for York Fort."

" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Humphrey Martin
Dated Cumberland House 17th Aug. 1778
Sir. By the arrival of James Leask and part of the Indians with him on the 13th Instant the others also arriving three days after with the Goods safe affords me an Opportunity of sending down with Escon and two more Canoes 14 Bundles of Furrs belonging to last Years Trade Contents as Per inclosed Account. Besides four Bundles which still remain I have traded from some of the Pe,go,go,mew and Cow,win,o,tow Indians 230 odd made Beaver. Ten Canoes of the latter arrived Yesterday the Chief of whom is Mun,a,tau who was down at York Fort last Summer. I only collected from them 40 odd made Beaver and not one days allowance of Provision for the Six People that are at the House. - At present we have no Stock of Food, nor is there any Likelyhood of any coming in this Fall as most of the Prime Hunters are come in not having met with any luck. Our whole dependance must be now intirely on a few Buffalo Indians who used to come down in the Fall but they are uncertain as the Canadian Masters have left Men up this Summer to Collect provisions &c against their Arrival. - The great rise of Water on the Lakes &c this year has obliged us to lay up our Nets, the proper fishing places being too deep; I have only served out one half days allowance of Fish since Mr Tomison embarked for York Fort. With wishing You and all under Your Command Health and happinefs
I remain
Sir
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
Joseph Hansom
PS. The Indians that brought the Goods up I have paid 4 Beaver for each Bundle as Per Your Order and those now sent are Paid to the Full."

Aug. 20
" Thursday Little Wind Variable light breezes Weather clear and pleasant. The men employed Two attending the Fishing Nets no Succefs, the rest cleaning the Warehouses. One Canoe arrived brought some Moose Flesh to Trade. The Indians that came on Saturday went away."

Aug. 21
" Friday Wind Westerly a stiff breeze Weather Cloudy with a light Shower of Rain in the Afternoon. sent two Men to set two Nets. One Man cleaning the small Arms, the other two cleaning the Rubbish from before the Gates. In the Evening three Canoes arrived with some dry and Green Provisions to trade."

Aug. 22
" Saturday Wind Variable light breezes Weather cloudy. The men employed one in cleaning small Arms, the rest drying the green meat that was brought Yesterday. Eight Canoes arrived with dry Provision to trade."

Aug. 23
" Sunday Wind Southerly a light breeze Weather cloudy with a continaul rain. Traded the Provisions from the Natives that came Yesterday."

Aug. 24
" Monday Wind West a light breeze Weather clear. The people employed about necefsary duty."

Aug. 25
" Tuesday Calm till Noon afterwards a strong Gale from the Northward with hard showers of Rain. The People employed drying some green Provisions. in the Evening two Canoes arrived with dry Food to Trade."

Aug. 26
" Wednesday Wind Southerly a light breeze Weather clear and Pleasant. Magnus Twatt at work on Carpentering businefs the rest as Yesterday. the Indians that came Yesterday and on Saturday went away."

Aug. 27
" Thursday Calm fine pleasant Weather. the People employed airing the stock of Provisions."

Aug. 28
" Friday Little Wind Southerly clear and pleasant Weather. The people employed two in Hunting from whom I received 2 Ducks and some small Fowl. The rest as Yesterday. in the Evening two Canoes arrived brought some dry'd Provisions to Trade."

Aug. 29
" Saturday Calm Weather clear and pleasant. sent two Men to the Nets no Succefs, the rest at work in the Garden. at Noon Eight Canoes arrived with green and dry'd Provisons to trade."

Aug. 30
" Sunday A strong Gale from the NW clear Weather. Traded with the Indians last night."

Aug. 31
" Monday Wind South a small breeze Weather clear and pleasant. The People employed drying of green Provisions. part of the Natives that came on Saturday went away acrofs the Lake to hunt."

Sept. 1 1778
" Tuesday Wind SE a light breeze Weather as Yesterday sent two Men to the Nets one Sturgeon. The rest employed as Yesterday."

Sept. 2
" Wednesday Wind South a small breeze Weather cloudy. sent two men to the Nets 2 Sturgeon the rest employed about Various duties."

Sept. 3
" Thursday Wind Westerly a light breeze Wea. clear and pleasant. sent two men a hunting from whom I received 4 Ducks. the rest employed in the Garden. At Noon six Canoes arrived with 21 Bales of Goods from York Fort, also in the Evening six Canoes of Canada Traders landed at a Point below Us the Masters of which are Monfieurs S. Germain and Primo the former wintered last Year in the Beaver Lake the latter is come from Montreal this Summer. they intend to proceed nigh hand to the A,tho,pus,kow Country where Primo wintered two Years ago. They are in the employ of Mr Frobisher and Partners."

Sept. 4
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. at Noon 13 Canoes of Cow,win,o,tow Indians arrived brought some Fatt to Trade. Paid the Natives for bringing up Goods from York Fort. the People employed attending the Gates. The Indians informs me that the Canadian Traders are not gone away as yet but that they intend to set off in the Evening."

Sept. 5
" Saturday Wind Southerly a light breeze Weather Cloudy. traded with the Indians last night the men employed as Yesterday."

Sept. 6
" Sunday Wind NW a stiff breeze Weather Cloudy with small showers of rain at times."

Sept. 7
" Monday Wind North a strong Gale Weather Cloudy with a continual rain. the People employed within doors."

Sept. 8
" Tuesday Wind Variable from North to East light breezes Weather clear and Pleasant. sent two men a hunting and to attend the Fishing Nets. in the Evening they return'd with 1 Sturgeon and 8 small Ducks the rest of the men employed within doors. the Natives that came on Tuesday went away."

Sept. 9
" Wednesday Wind SE a stiff breeze Weather clear and pleasant. sent two men to attend the Nets and to set one a fresh no Succefs. The rest setting up Firewood that was felled last Summer. in the Evening six Canoes arrived with Green and dry Provision to trade also one Canoe from the U Basquia Captain's gang with two Bundles of Goods from York Fort. He says the rest with the Englishmen will be here to morrow."

Sept. 10
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. at Noon seven Englishmen accompanied with the U Basquia Leader and five Indian Canoes arrived with Goods from York Fort. - Presented the Leader and His followers some Liquor as usual."

" Copy of a Letter received from Mr Humphrey Martin
Dated York Fort 29th July 1778
Sir
By the safe arrival of William Walker and his party on the 21st Instant I rec'd the Furrs mentioned in two Letters of Mr William Tomison of the 10th and 13th Ult.
I could wish the Indians in future should not receive full payment at their Honors Inland Settlement for notwithstanding Sir Mr Tomison says that I have nothing to pay the Indians that brings Furrs down but by way of Friendship. Yet Sir their demands runs as high as if they had not been paid at all and farther Sir when Indians are paid to the full they grow so much more remifs and Untractable than when future payment is in View. This was verified in William Walkers Journey down, some of the Indians having deserted him, made it necefsary for him to employ others in their room amongst whom is Ma meek a the nee? who You know is a Captain with him came his Brother a Lieutenant both of whom must be rigged, consequently a great additional expence incurred. I speak not this to Censure Sir Mr Tomison or any other officers behaviour, being fully informed of the difficulties they labour under to get Indians to come down at any rate. I only give you a hint of what if practiable I think would ease the Expence and render the Natives more tractable and carefull.
Our Friends down the Bay were all well the 29th May last except two Shipwrights one of whom was knocked over board the other killed by a setting Gun. Wishing You Health Succefs and Happinefs. I remain
Sir
Your Obedient Servant
Humphrey Martin
PS. I am Glad to hear Magnus Twatt continues so usefull and will inform their Honors of it.

for Mr Joseph Hansom or the Commanding Officer at Cumberland House"

Sept. 11
" Friday Wind South a light breeze Weather clear and pleasant. Paid the Indians for bringing up the Goods. The People employed some in airing the Provisions, the others attending the Gates &c. Ten Tents of Natives on the Plantation."

Sept. 12
" Saturday Wind South a stiff breeze Weather cloudy The people employed two attending the Nets two a hunting at the River below. the rest about various duties some of the Natives went away."

Sept. 13
" Sunday Wind South a stiff Gale Weather cloudy with Rain, read Divine Service. Our Hunters returned rec'd from them 14 Ducks."

Sept. 14
" Monday Wind North a hard Gale Weather cloudy with light showers of rain at times. The people employed one Man cleaning the Trading Guns two men abroad Fishing and hunting. The rest setting up the Wood that was felled last Summer."

Sept. 15
" Tuesday Wind South a light breeze dark gloomy Weather with Lightening from the Northward. The men employed as above, some of the Natives went away. Five tents of Indians on the Plantation."

Sept. 16
" Wednesday Wind NW a strong Gale dark cloudy Weather. The people employed as on Monday."

Sept. 17
" Thursday Wind SE a light breeze Wea. Cloudy. The people employed one man cleaning up the Trading Guns and small Arms. William Walker and one man a hunting. the rest setting up the Winters Wood. At Noon the two Fishermen returned with 70 fine Tickomeg making two days Allowance for all hands. in the Evening sent them off again. They informed me that Eight Canoes belonging to the Canada Traders pafsed them on Tuesday last but did not bespeak them. One Canoe of Natives arrived with some green and dry Provisions to Trade."

Sept. 18
" Friday Wind Southerly Weather cloudy with a continual rain. the People employed within doors. at Noon one Canoe arrived but brought nothing to Trade. they inform'd me that a great number of Canada Traders are at the Fishing place below, and that part of them are to Winter in the Beaver Lake to the Northward of this place."

Sept. 19
" Saturday Wind West Weather cloudy with drizzling rain. The People employed setting up Firewood. Traded the Provisions from the Natives that came on Thursday."

Sept. 20
" Sunday A fresh breeze Westerly Weather cloudy with drizzling Rain at times; at noon Will. Walker and the man return'd from hunting with 36 Geese and 4 Ducks."

Sept. 21
" Monday A strong Gale WNW Weather as Yesterday. the People employed setting up firewood. Rec'd 4 Geese from an Indian hunter who informs me that Blandeaux, and Peter Pangman belonging to the Canadian Traders went past the upper Portage this morning."

Sept. 22
" Tuesday Wind NW a stiff breeze till Noon afterwards Calm. The People employed as Yesterday. Five Canoes arrived with Provisions to Trade. also in the Evening Mr Tomison with five Englishmen and Indians arrived with Goods from York Fort."

Sept. 23
" Wednesday Wind SE a light breeze Weather clear and pleasant. at Noon three Canoes arrived with Goods from York Fort who are part of Mr Tomison's Company which parted from him Yesterday."

Sept. 24
" Thursday Little Wind variable light breezes rainey Weather. The People employed about various duties. at Noon one Canoe of Canada Traders went past for the Beaver Lake where they intend to Winter."

" By Mr William Tomison"


" Copy of a Letter received from Mr Humphery Martin
Dated York Fort 4th August 1778
Mr William Tomison or the Commanding Officer at Cumberland House
Sir
We the chief and Council for the Honorable the Hudsons Bay Company at York Fort having taken into our most serious Consideration the Situation of the Companys Affairs Inland are greatly alarmed at the Information We have received from You and Other Persons of the greatly encreased numbers of Canadian Traders that now overspread almost this Country and have absolutely blocked up every Pafsage to their Honors Inland Settlement as most of those to York Fort. In Order to prevent as much as pofsible the apparent approaching encreasing Evils from entirely destroying the Natives and consequently the Companys Trade. We think it necefsary for You to send off from the Inland Settlement as soon as pofsible after Your arrival at that place Robert Longmoor with what men can be spared and an afsortment of Goods that may be requisite for the Indian tribes that now are hindered by the Canadian Traders from coming to You. Robert Longmoor hath faithfully promised to go as far as any of the Canadians shall Inland and to do his Utmost for his Master's Interest. in Consideration of his known abilities, Fidelity and Courage We have agreed to his signing a Contract for one Year at 30 £ Per Annum but has it was impofsible either to get Goods from hence Inland or to supply Robert Longmoor with Men sufficient to afsist him in his intended Journey. We have entertained? Will. Oman one Year at 12 £ with this Clann that should the Honorable Committee agree to give their other Servants whom are now at William Oman's Wages a higher Salary. He shall received an equal benefit. James Banks two Years and on the same Conditions. William Flatt two Years and on the above Conditions. James Spence late Servant to Mr Martin is engaged to serve the Company two Years at 10 £ Isaac Batt having desired to have a quantity of Goods delivered to Him in trust to trade for his Masters benefit; Should You think it prudent so to do. We desire You will supply him in any Quantity that may be requisite to enable him to promote their Honors Interest; should any other Persons be willing to go on the like Service that You think are fit to be trusted You will please to afsist them as far as is necefsary. Wishing You and all under Your Command health and Happinefs We remain
Sir
Your Obedient Servants
Humhrey Martin chief
William Stephenson Surgeon."

Sept. 25
" Friday Wind NW a stiff breeze Weather Cloudy inclinable to Rain. myself with proper afsistance packing up the Trading Goods and fitting out Robert Longmoor and Men for the intended Journey up Sas.kash.i.wan River to erect a temporary Settlement to prevent the Indians from Trading with the Inland Europeans. seven Tents of Natives on the Plantation."

Sept. 26
" Saturday Wind Westerly a fresh Gale with cloudy Weather. 12 Men getting ready for going up the River, one man Net making, the rest about various duties. finished fitting out Robert Longmoor for the intended Expedition also paid Indians for carrying goods up from York Fort."

Sept. 27
" Sunday Wind Variable from WSW to West a stiff Gale Weather cloudy. at eight oClock Robert Longmoor proceeded but got no farther than the Point above the House the Wind freshening from the Westward when they was a loading obliged William Walker to stay here. He has since denied going and tells me if I force him to go he says he will never return but go and enter in the Canadian Service. the men sent up Sas,kas,i,wan River are as follows Viz. Robert Longmoor in Charge, Magnus Twatt, Malchom Rofs, James Banks, Charles Isham, James Spence, James Leask, Mitchell Oman, William Oman, James Spence, James Batt and Isaac Batt, also afsisted by Six Indians. I have sent with them an afsortment of Trading Goods to the amount of 2406 made Beaver."

Sept. 28
" Monday Wind SSW a moderate breeze Weather for the most part Cloudy. sent William Walker and an Indian to the fishing wire; one man net making, the rest setting up Firewood, trusted Indians a little debt. two tents gone off the plantation."

Sept. 29
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a fresh gale with cloudy weather. The men employed as Yesterday. Mr Hansom with myself opening some of the Packages."

Sept. 30
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday, the men employed as before. opened the remainder of the Packages and found everything answer according to the Invoices. the Indian that went from me in Mash,kech,e,quan Lake is not yet arrived. I suppose He is either lost or murdered by other Indians and the Goods taken from him. He had three Rolls of Tobacco cont'g 183 lb and one 3 1/2 Foot Gun. 1 Tent of Indians went of the Plantation."

Oct. 1 1778
" Thursday Wind Variable from West to WSW a fresh Gale with a little snow at times. two men making Nets, the rest setting up Firewood. two Canoes arrived from acrofs the Lake brought some dried Beavers flesh and Furrs to the amount of 70 made Beaver, part of which they traded and got drunk. in the Evening Will. Walker and the Indian returned from the Wire brought 10 Geese and a few Pike, also received 16 Geese from an Indian man."

Oct. 2
" Friday Wind SW a small breeze Weather cloudy with rain at times. two men employed making Nets the rest overhauling the Provisions and removing the dried meat into the House, the out House being too damp. Our present stock of Provisions 1000 lb dried Moose Flesh, 1700 beat meat, 1100 lb Fatt. Mr Hansom informs me that he would have got more but the Canadians coming in so soon stop't the Natives from bringing any notwithstanding he gave great encouragement for Provisions otherwise he would have got but little this Summer. This place being so incumbent with the Canadians, Traded with the Indians that came Yesterday and made them some small presents to induce them to come again. the Indians all gone off the Plantation to their Winter quarters except the men I have kept to hunt Geese to preserve our dried Stock of Provisions."

Oct. 3
" Saturday Wind NW with rainey Weather till Noon afterwards blowed a strong gale the men employ'd about necefsary duty within doors."

Oct. 4
" Sunday Wind Westerly with moderate Weather till Noon afterwards blowed hard from the NW with hard showers. sent the two Indians a hunting. the Indian that parted from me in Mash,kech,e,quan Lake arrived and brought every thing safe. He informs me he was 12 days Weather bound in the Sea Lake which is the cause of his late arrival. He also inform'd me that he has accompanied two of the Canadian Traders. Holms and Graves with Ten Canoes going up aloft, he says they lost two Canoes, one on the great Fall, and another in crofsing the Cedar Lake by carrying too much sail, the men was saved but no Goods."

Oct. 5
" Monday Wind variable with fine clear Wea. Two men working Nets. sent Mr Hansom and William Walker to set two Sturgeon Nets the rest setting up Firewood. A strong Frost last night."

Oct. 6
" Tuesday Wind Variable from SE to North a fresh Gale with a continual snow. The People employed making and mending Nets. Snowed a good deal last night."

Oct. 7
" Wednesday WSW a fresh Gale with snow at times, two men making Nets, three men setting up Firewood, sent Mr Hansom and William Walker to the Nets but return'd without succefs. in the Evening one of our Indian hunters arrived from below brought 9 Geese and 1 Beaver."

Oct. 8
" Thursday Wind WSW a stiff Gale with cold freezing weather. three men employed making Nets the rest collecting Firewood. froze hard last night."

Oct. 9
" Friday Wind SW a moderate Breeze with clear Weather. the men employed as Yesterday. towards Evening the Ice drove a little way of shore, sent the men to the Nets but return'd with no better succefs then before. no Fish to be caught."

Oct. 10
" Saturday Wind variable from SW to West a small breeze with cloudy Weather. The people employed as yesterday."

Oct. 11
" Sunday Wind SE a small breeze Weather for the most part cloudy with Snow in the Evening. towards Noon our Indian hunters arrived brought 190 lb of Moose flesh a few small birds and seven Geese. they say the Geese are almost gone by reason of the Weather being so cold. in the Evening Mr Phillip Turnor accompanied by three Englishmen and two Indians arrived safe at this place, tho they have had some difficulty in geting up for the Ice. it being in many places above two Inches thick. Mr Turnor also informs me that they had the Misfortune to overset one of their Canoes on a fall by which accident they lost great part of their Necefsaries and William Lieutit narrowly escaped being drowned. he also says they pafsed by Six Canadians with one Canoe very busy building a House about 30 miles from this place."

" Copy of a Letter received from Mr Humphrey Martin
Dated York Fort 9th Sept. 1778
Mr William Tomison or the Commanding Officer at Cumberland House
Sir
By the safe arrival of the Companys Ship King George, Captain Jonathon Fowler, I received Command from the Governor Deputy Governor and Committee of the Honorable Hudsons Bay Company to inform their Servants of their resolutions in regards to raising the Wages of their Inland Servants as under mentioned Viz. William Walker in consideration of his Merit may Contract for Five Years at 25 £ Per Annum. Robert Longmoor may contract for three Years at 30 £ each in consideration of his still Travelling Inland. Henry Burney will be allowed 40 Shillings Per Annum so long as he shall be continued on Inland duties. Charles Isham may contract three Years at 15 £ each and James Batt ditto, three Years at 12 £ each. The Persons whose times expires next Year are Mr William Tomison, Mr Joseph Hansom, Malchom Rofs, Magnus Twatt, Mitchell Oman, Magnus Sclater, James Wafs, William Gray, William Oman, Robert Davey, James Spence Sen., and Will. Lieutit. all which Persons it will be proper to send down with Furrs as also all others that can be spared. If Mr Joseph Hansom should come down it will be proper to appoint William Walker to the Charge of the House and to leave with him the following Persons Viz. James Batt. Nicholas Wishart, Henry Burney, and my late Servant James Spence but should more be found necefsary I would advice You to detain James Banks and Magnus Twatt if Mr Hansom should stay at Cumberland House it will be requsite to send William Walker down in Charge of what Furrs can be sent by the earliest Oppertunity, and if Pofsible send by him, or whoever You first send, an Indent of such things as are most wanted. The American War continues very hot, it will be proper to be on Your gaurd, and it is their Honors positive Orders. You have as little Intercourse with the Canadians as pofsible. You will inform Isaac Batt that He is reinstated on the Companys Books and that the Gentlemen expects by his Vigilence and Attention to their Interest, He will approve himself deserving of their Honors future Favours; his Wages is continued at 20 £ Per Annum. the time he was absent from his duty must be lost as to his subsisting Contract and the full time mentioned on that Contract compleated in the Companys Service, as to the Bill drawn by Mr Frobisher, Captain Richards hath not mentioned a word of it. It would be highly pleasing to their Honors to have the House in the Buffalo Country settled as soon as pofsible, and I hope long since Robert Longmoor with sufficient hands and materials have been sent on that Service. I intend next year to augment Your Number to 26 men that is if You should think that Number requisite, three of whom may be left if convenient at the new Settlement which for distinction sake, You may call Hudson House. - I beg Sir You will exert Yourself to the Utmost and afsure the Companys Servants of having their deserts laid before the board. the building of Canoes should be a primary Object with You; have inclosed three filled up Contracts, which you are to see dated and duly Executed which you will please to return by the first Conveyance. - Should You find any thing in the Mineral or Vegetable way worthy their Honors attention You will be carefull to send it. I would advice You to trade full to the York Fort for Prime Wolves or Otters and should any Indian bring You a considerable Number of fine skins make him a suitable present rather then alter the Standard; I remain with sincere Wishes for Your health as also all under Your command
Your Obedient Servant
Humphery Martin."

" Mr William Tomison or the Commanding Officer at Cumberland House
Sir.
The Bearer Mr Philip Turnor being by the Governor Deputy Governor and Commitee of the Honorable Hudsons Bay appointed their Surveyor for settling the Latitudes, Longitudes, Courses and distances of the different Settlements Inland. You are to give the said Gentleman all requisite and pofsible afsistance to enable him to give all satisfaction in the above, or any other duties required of him. He is to be treated in the most respectfull manner, and accommodated with every thing requisite to facilitate his Expedition - on this Account the Expence it will Occasion must be only Your secondary Object and the Gentlemen being desirous to have the earliest intelligence of Mr Turnors proceedings. You will transmit to Us what ever He shall think worthy of their attentions, taking particular care that every transaction be executed with the deepest Secresy; For fear of Accidents in coming to the Fort duplicates should be taken of all material papers and transmitted to the Fort by different Channels each to be entrusted to Englishmen only. - When Mr Philip Turnor hath finish'd his Survey of the Inland Settlements under Your direction It will be highly agreeable to the Committee could Mr Turnor be conducted thro the Lakes inland to Albany or Moose Forts, but if that is not Practicable, You will give him every afsistance to render his his return to York Fort expediteous and agreeable; should the Indian Me,tu,ne,ke,shick and Ne,pin,no,a,thin behave well, You are to give each Six or eight Beaver they have been paid in part at this place 30 Beaver each, a little Brandy and Tobacco as usual.

You will please to observe that the Company have directed that Mr Turnor shall mefs at the respectives Chiefs Table where he shall reside and should he proceed thro' the Lakes give Notice to the Chiefs of Albany and Moose Forts of their Honors pleasure.
We remain Sir
Your Obedient Servants
Humphery Martin Chief
Matthew Cocking Second
William Stephenson Surgeon."

Oct. 12
" Monday Wind Northerly a stiff breeze Weather cloudy with a continuance of snow. The men employed about necefsary duties within doors."

Oct. 13
" Tuesday Wind NE Weather coudy with a drizzling rain. sent two men to set a Net and to overhale the other two that were set; returned with one small Sturgeon the rest employed within doors; the two Indians that accompanied Mr Turnor from York Fort returned to their Familys, also sent off our Indian Hunters in search of Provisions."

Oct. 14
" Wednesday Wind and Weather variable Two men making Nets the rest employed about various duties."

Oct. 15
" Thursday Wind variable with light breezes Weather for the most part Cloudy. two men making Nets, one man putting parchment on the Windows, the rest employed about necefsary Jobbs."

Oct. 16
" Friday Wind Variable with cloudy Weather till Noon, afterwards blowed a stiff breeze from the NW the people employed as Yesterday. a strong frost last night."

Oct. 17
" Saturday Wind Southerly with a fresh breeze Weather clear. the men employed about odd Jobbs without and within doors. a sharp Frost last night but thawed a little on the day as it has done for several days past but gains greatly in the night."

Oct. 18
" Sunday Wind variable Weather cloudy with a continual snow but the greater part of it Thawed as it fell. performed Divine Service for the day. in the Evening one of our Indian Hunters arrived without Succefs no Moose stirring, the Lake froze about a mile from the shore."

Oct. 19
" Monday Wind NW a stiff breeze with dark cloudy Weather, the People employed two men making Nets, two men cutting of Firewood, the rest about necefsary Jobbs within doors a strong Frost last night."

Oct. 20
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a small breeze Weather clear and pleasant. the people employed. Two men making Nets, the rest collecting Firewood. in the Evening our Indian Hunter returned but have had no better succefs than he that returned on the 18th."

Oct. 21
" Wednesday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. the people employed as before. received four Geese from our Indian Hunters."

Oct. 22
" Thursday Wind Variable from West to NNW a stiff gale with cloudy Weather. two men employed in the Net way. the rest cut Firewood. We have made several Attempts to get to the Nets but all in Vain."

Oct. 23
" Friday Wind NW a stiff gale with freezing Wea. two men repairing the mens Chimney; the rest employed about various duties. the Lake almost frose over last night. One of our Indian Hunters pitched away."

Oct. 24
" Saturday Wind easterly a fresh gale. Weather cloudy with snow in the Evening. The people employed, one man Nailing parchment on the windows. two men making Nets, the rest clearing the Rubbish from about the Works."

Oct. 25
" Sunday Wind as Yesterday a small breeze Weather cloudy with a drizzling snow in the Evening."

Oct. 26
" Monday Wind Variable from East to SE Weather part cloudy part clear; the men employed two making Nets, the rest clearing the Snow from the Works."

Oct. 27
" Tuesday Wind variable Weather cloudy with continuance of snow, the men employed within doors."

Oct. 28
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a small breeze with dark cloudy Weather. the people employed two men making Nets the rest clearing Snow away from the Works and cut Firewood. in the Evening in the our? Indian Hunters pitched away in search of Provisions, the Lake is fast but not strong enough to walk on any distance from the shore."

Oct. 29
" Thursday Wind as Yesterday Weather part cloudy part clear. one man making Nets, two men cutting firewood, the rest with myself making Rabbit hedging and setting a few snares."

Oct. 30
" Friday Wind Variable from West to the East with clear Weather. thawed a little towards Noon where the Sun came. sent William Walker a hunting but returned without Succefs no Partridges to be seen, the rest employed about various duties."

Oct. 31
" Saturday Little Wind from the South quarter with warm thawing Weather. one man Net making the rest employed removeing the dried meat to the out Office and cut Firewood. received three Rabbits from the Snares."

Nov. 1 1778
" Sunday Calm clear Thawey Weather."

Nov. 2
" Monday Wind SW a small breeze Weather clear and thawed a little towards Noon. the people employed one man Net making, four men falling firewood, myself with the rest set two Sturgeon Nets and brought home Fourteen Sturgeon from the three Nets that was down. in the Evening our Indian Hunters returned having met with no Succefs acrofs the Lake."

Nov. 3
" Tuesday Wind variable from SW to West with clear Weather. one man Net making the rest falling and setting up firewood."

Nov. 4
" Wednesday Wind Northerly almost calm Weather clear and Thawed a little towards Noon. the men employed one man Net making, two Cut firewood Mr Hansom with the rest set two Sturgeon Nets and brought home five small Sturgeon from the four Nets that was set before."

Nov. 5
" Thursday Wind Easterly a small breeze Weather for the most part Cloudy the People employed one man Net making, one man a Hunting, two men with myself getting Stuff for Sleds; the rest falling and setting up Firewood. two Partridges and one Rabbit to day."

Nov. 6
" Friday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday the men employed making Nets and falling Firewood. in the Evening the Indian arrived that pitched away on the 23rd of last month he informs me that he has killed four Moose since he went from here but the distance being far off and the road very bad he could bring but a small quantity with him there not being snow enough for hauling."

Nov. 7
" Saturday Wind Westerly a small breeze with warm cloudy Weather till Noon afterwards clear. sent three men to the Nets who returned with 12 Sturgeon which made two days for all hands. the rest cut Firewood and finished a Sturgeon Net ready for setting."

Nov. 8
" Sunday Wind SW a stiff breeze with clear Weather. Performed Divine Service, our Indian hunters pitched away. I have sent with them Henry Burney to afsist in bringing Provisions when they kill a Moose."

Nov. 9
" Monday Wind Westerly a small breeze with warm Cloudy Weather. the People employed two men Net making, one man setting snares for Rabbits, the rest fall'g and setting up Firewood."

Nov. 10
" Tuesday Wind as Yesterday Weather for the most part clear and more inclinable to Freeze then it has been for some time past. sent two men abroad to snare Rabbits. one man Net making. sent the rest to the Nets who returned with seven Sturgeon and one Pike."

Nov. 11
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a stiff breeze Weather part clear part Cloudy. The people employed about various duties. two Rabbits from William Walkers snares. in the Evening two Indians arrived from the Westward with a few Furrs amounting to 20 made Beaver."

Nov. 12
" Thursday Wind NW a stiff Gale Weather cloudy with a drizzling snow. William Walker and Robert Davey making ready to go away with the two Indians that came Yesterday one man making cloathing for the People, the rest Net making."

Nov. 13
" Friday Wind Westerly a fresh gale with clear sharp Weather sent Mr Hansom with the People to the Nets, who returnd with 13 Sturgeon and set one Net. fitted out Will. Walker and Robert Davey for their Journey."

Nov. 14
" Saturday Wind SE a small breeze Weather part cloudy part clear till the Evening afterwards drizzling snow. The men employed sent William Walker and Robert Davey away with the two Indians that arrived on the 11th Instant. I have sent with them 45 made Beaver in Trading Goods to trade a few Furrs and to prevent Ind. from going to the Canadians. The rest employed within doors. in the Evening James Wafs came home for Food, brought Six Rabbits. He informs me there is but few to be caught."

Nov. 15
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh gale Weather cloudy with Snow till the Evening afterwards clear sharp Weather."

Nov. 16
" Monday Wind WSW almost calm Weather clear and sharp Air. one man employed about odd Jobbs at the House myself with the rest at the Nets 14 Sturgeon to day. also received 4 Rabbits and 4 Partridges from Mr Philip Turnor. Jam. Wafs return'd to his Tent."

Nov. 17
" Tuesday Wind NW a small breeze Weather for the most part Cloudy with Rime falling. one man making Cloathing for the People, the rest making and mending Nets and cutting Firewood. received one Rabbit and one Partridge from Mr Turnor."

Nov. 18
" Wednesday Wind NW a stiff breeze with Cloudy Weather the men employed as Yesterday receiv'd5 Rabbits from Mr Turnors snares also 2 from my own."

Nov. 19
" Thursday Wind Variable Weather part cloudy part clear. one man cutting of firewood. sent Mr Hansom with the rest to the Nets returned with 14 Sturgeon and one Pike."

Nov. 20
" Friday Wind Westerly a small breeze Weather cloudy with Rime falling. the People employed Net making and doing other odd Jobbs within doors four Rabbits and two Partridges to day."

Nov. 21
" Saturday Wind SW Weather much the same as Yesterday. the men employed cutting of firewood. in the afternoon William Lieutit came home for Food brought 21 Rabbits and four Partridges also received 4 Rabbits from the Home snares."

Nov. 22
" Sunday Wind Northerly a strong Gale with thick Rimey Weather."

Nov. 23
" Monday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze Weather cloudy till Noon, afterwards clear, the men employed William Lieutit return'd to his tent sent the rest to the Nets at Noon returned with twelve Sturgeon and one Pike. rec'd five Rabbits from Mr Turnors snares also five from my own."

Nov. 24
" Tuesday Wind SE a fresh gale Weather clear and Thawey till Noon afterwards more milder. the people employed Net making and cutting of firewood. myself making Sleds."

Nov. 25
" Wednesday Wind Variable from SW to NW a strong Gale and cloudy Weather. the people employed as Yesterday received ten Rabbits from the snares, in the Evening Cattab.bob.in.now the U Basquia Leader arrived accompanied by six men and five Women. three of which are Strangers belonging to the Ea.win.eth.low Tribe. The Furrs they have brought is but triffling for so many People to come so far."

Nov. 26
" Thursday Little Wind from the SE a fresh Gale Weather cloudy with a little snow in the Evening. sent Mr Joseph Hansom with the People to the Nets at Noon returned with 12 Sturgeon and three Pike. also received five Partridges from Mr Turnor. The Indians traded a few Skins for Brandy and got drunk."

Nov. 27
" Friday Wind NW a fresh gale with cloudy Wea. The People employed cutting Firewood. traded with the Indians and gave them encouragement to come in again. Cattab.bob.in.now informs me that he received a present of Tobacco and Brandy from the Canadian Traders last Fall, after he went from this place to induce him to go down with them to the great Carrying Place next Summer. they further told him that it was not them alone that wanted him but the great men at that place had sent for him and his Countrymen to come and see them, and that they should receive great encouragement for their trouble."

Nov. 28
" Saturday Wind Westerly a stiff breeze with cloudy Weather. the men employed one man calking up the North door, the rest cut Firewood. Willim Lieutit and James Wafs came home for good, brought 18 Rabbits and two Partridges."

Nov. 29
" Sunday Wind SE a small breeze Weather cloudy. the U Basquia Leader has informed me that there is a few Furrs amongst the Indians that he came from, and that they are not likely to come here, I have therefore fitted out Mr Joseph Hansom with William Lieutit and James Wafs to go along with them to trade what Furrs there may be amongst them. the Indians went away except three men that has stayed to go with the Englishmen to morrow."

Nov. 30
" Monday Wind Northerly a stiff gale Weather cloudy with Snow and drift in the forenoon, afterwards clear Pleasant Weather. The people employed clearing the snow from the Works and cutting Firewood. Mr Hansom and the two men with the Indians proceeded on their Journey."

Dec. 1 1778
" Tuesday Wind WSW a fresh breeze with clear sharp Weather. sent three men to the Nets, brought twelve Sturgeon. at noon three Indians arrived from the Southward with a few Furrs but no Provisions, they say they have been in a starving condition for want of Ammunition."

Dec. 2
" Wednesday Wind variable with clear sharp Wea. sent three men to the Nets and to bring home one to be repair'd. twelve Sturgeon to day. Traded with the Indians that came Yesterday and presented them a little Brandy and Tobacco for their better encouragement to come again."

Dec. 3
" Thursday Wind WSW a fresh Gale with clear sharp Weather, the men employed cutting Firewood. Myself getting stuff for sleds. the Indians went away that came the first Instant."

Dec. 4
" Friday Wind SW a stiff gale Weather clear but not so sharp as Yesterday. the people employed cutting Firewood myself Sled making."

Dec. 5
" Saturday Wind Northerly a small breeze with cloudy mild Weather. sent three men to the Nets at Noon returned with 14 Sturgeon."

Dec. 6
" Sunday Wind Easterly a fresh gale with snow and drift. at Noon Henry Burney and one of our Indian Hunters came to the House for a supply of Ammunition. They brought 70 lb beat meat but no Furrs except one Otter skin by their Account they have had but very indifferent Succefs in hunting."

Dec. 7
" Monday Wind NW a fresh breeze with drift in the Forenoon afterwards Calm clear Weather. the men employed clearing the Snow away from the Works and cutting of Firewood."

Dec. 8
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a fresh Gale with a low drift. The people employed one man Net mending, the rest cutting of Firewood. our Indian hunter went away. Henry Burney I have kept at home as there is not men sufficient to attend the Nets and to do other domestic duty."

Dec. 9
" Wednesday Wind NE a small breeze Weather cloudy the men employed one man cutting Firewood, myself with the rest at the Nets. 26 Sturgeon to day."

Dec. 10
" Thursday Wind Easterly a stiff gale with drift the men employed as Yesterday.20 Sturgeon to day."

Dec. 11
" Friday Little Wind from the East quarter Weather for the most part clear. The People employed cutting Firewood."

Dec. 12
" Saturday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. sent four men to the Nets, at Noon return'd with 20 Sturgeon. Mr Turnor and myself setting a few Rabbit snares."

Dec. 13
" Sunday Wind SE a fresh breeze Weather clear till noon afterwards Cloudy."

Dec. 14
" Monday Wind Variable with cloudy mild Weather sent the People to the Nets at Noon returned brought 27 Sturgeon also took up one Net to be repaired. three Rabbits to day from the snares."

Dec. 15
" Tuesday Wind North a small breeze with clear pleasant Weather. the men employed cutting Firewood."

Dec. 16
" Wednesday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday, received twenty seven Sturgeon from the Nets."

Dec. 17
" Thursday Wind Variable from East to North with moderate Weather till Noon afterwards blowed hard with Snow and drift. the men employed cutting Firewood. Four Rabbits to day from the snares."

Dec. 18
" Friday Wind NW a fresh gale with clear sharp Weather. the people employed clearing away the Snow from the Works, and cut Firewood."

Dec. 19
" Saturday Wind Variable first part of the day cloudy latter part clear sent four men to the Nets return'd with 22 Sturgeon one Pike and one Tickameg. also received four Rabbits from the snares."

Dec. 20
" Sunday Wind SE a fresh breeze with clear sharp Weather much rime fell last night."

Dec. 21
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same the same as Yesterday. the men employed cutting Firewood received 5 Rabbits from the snares."

Dec. 22
" Tuesday Little Wind Easterly Weather cloudy with a drizzling snow towards Evening. twenty six Sturgeon from the Nets and two Rabbits from the snares."

Dec.23
" Wednesday Wind as Yesterday Weather part cloudy part clear the men employed cutting Firewood. five Rabbits from the snares."

Dec. 24
" Thursday Wind NW a stiff gale with snow and drift, afterwards clear sharp Weather the men employed clearing the Snow from the Works and cutting Firewood. Snowed and drifted hard last night."

Dec. 25
" Friday Wind WSW a small breeze with clear sharp Weather read Divine Service for the day."

Dec. 26
" Saturday Wind SW a small breeze with clear mild Weather. sent the men to the Nets at noon returned with 20 Sturgeon."

Dec. 27
" Sunday Wind Westerly a fresh breeze with clear sharp Weather."

Dec. 28
" Monday Wind Variable from East to North a fresh gale with snow and drift."

Dec. 29
" Tuesday Wind NW a strong gale with a continuance of snow and drift."

Dec. 30
" Wednesday Wind Variable from SW to SE a stiff breeze Weather clear and more milder then Yesterday. the men employed cutting Firewood and Shoveling the Snow in heaps that is in the Yard, in the Evening our Indian Hunter with his Family arrived brought 50 lb green meat, 20 lb meat beated, and two made Beaver in Furrs he says the way that they have been there is no Furrs to be caught and but very little Provisions."

Dec. 31
" Thursday Wind Westerly a small breeze with cloudy Weather. 16 Sturgeon from the Nets to day."

Jan. 1 1779
" Friday Wind Northerly almost Calm and cloudy till Noon afterwards clear."

Jan. 2
" Saturday Little Wind Easterly with cloudy rimey Weather. the men employed cutting Firewood and clearing the snow away from the outer Gates."

Jan. 3
" Sunday Wind as Yesterday with clear mild Weather."

Jan. 4
" Monday Little Wind Easterly till Noon afterwards blowed a strong Gale from the Northward with Snow and drift. eight Sturgeon from the Nets to day."

Jan. 5
" Tuesday Little Wind Westerly Weather clear. the men employed clearing away the snow from the Works."

Jan. 6
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday the People employed Falling and carrying in Firewood."

Jan. 7
" Thursday Calm clear sharp Weather. the men employed cutting Firewood. in the Evening Mr Joseph Hansom William Lieutit and James Wafs came back from the Indians, also one Young Indian Boy for their guide they have brought 116 made Beaver it being all he could collect amongst ten Tents, none of which belonged to the Cow,win,eth,tow Tribe. Mr Hansom informs me that they are all pitched away towards the Barren ground, except the U Basquia Leader and one man more which hath promised to come here in the spring. Mr Hansom says he could not get any of the Indians to afsist him to the House with the Furrs which obliged him to trade a Horse which he has brought, he is 13 1/2 hands high and looks tolerable well considering he has been thirteen days in his Journey and the snow very deep all the way."

Jan. 8
" Friday Wind SW a fresh breeze Weather Cloudy with a drizzling snow. Six Sturgeon and one Pike from the Nets."

Jan. 9
" Saturday Wind Westerly a small breeze with clear sharp Weather. the men employed cutting Firewood and doing other necefsary duty."

Jan. 10
" Sunday Wind as Yesterday with cloudy mild Weather received three Partridges from the Indian Boy."

Jan. 11
" Monday Wind variable Weather as Yesterday sent four men to the Nets brought Sturgeon and two Pike. Mr Hansom with the rest building a Barricade for the Horse. received 5 Partridges from the Indian Boy."

Jan. 12
" Tuesday Wind SW a small breeze with cloudy rimey Weather. The people employed cutting Firewood and getting Grafs for the Horse."

Jan. 13
" Wednesday Wind NW Weather as Yesterday till the Evening afterwards blowed a stiff gale with drift. The men employed falling and carrying in Firewood."

Jan. 14
" Thursday Wind Westerly a fresh breeze with clear sharp Weather. sent four men to the Nets brought home 9 Sturgeon and two Pike. James Wafs ailing; the other men cutting Firewood."

Jan. 15
" Friday Wind as Yesterday with drifting Wea. the men employed cutting Firewood and getting grafs."

Jan. 16
" Saturday Wind WSW Weather the same as Yesterday the men cutt Firewood. James Wafs nothing better."

Jan. 17
" Sunday Wind SW a stiff gale with clear sharp Weather."

Jan. 18
" Monday Wind Variable from SW to NW a fresh gale with drifting Weather. James Wafs still ailing, the rest employed getting Grafs for the Horse."

Jan. 19
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a stiff Gale with a low drift. sent four men to the Nets brought Six Sturgeon and two Pike also one Net to be repaired and set one in its room."

Jan. 20
" Wednesday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. the people employed cutting Firewood. two Partridges to day."

Jan. 21
" Thursday Wind variable in the South Quarter with clear fine Weather. James Wafs something better, the rest employed falling and carrying Firewood. fitted out our Indian Hunter and sent him away to hunt Moose and trap Martins, the coldnefs of the Weather and his Wife being sick has been the cause of his long stay here."

Jan. 22
" Friday Little Wind Easterly with clear sharp Weather sent four men to the Nets. Mr Hansom with the rest getting Grafs for the Horse six Sturgeon to day. James Wafs upon Duty."

Jan. 23
" Saturday Wind as yesterday Weather for the most part cloudy with a drizzling snow the men employed cutting Firewood five Partridges to day from Mr Turnor."

Jan. 24
" Sunday Wind variable from West to NW weather clear and sharp."

Jan. 25
" Monday Wind SW fresh breeze Weather as Yesterday the people employed one man a hunting. the rest getting Grafs for the Horse. five partridges to day."

Jan. 26
" Tuesday Little Wind Variable Weather mild with a drizzling snow sent four men to the Nets the rest cut Firewood. five Sturgeon to day."

Jan. 27
" Wednesday Wind southerly a small breeze with clear sharp Weather till Noon afterwards more mild. the People employed one man Net mending the rest cutting Firewood."

Jan. 28
" Thursday Little Wind variable part cloudy part clear one man making cloathing for the People one man hunting, the rest getting grafs for the Horse. two Partridges to day."

Jan. 29
" Friday Wind SW a fresh breeze with mild Weather thawed a little towards Noon. two men employed within doors sent the rest to the Nets had but little Succefs set one Net and brought home one to be repaired."

Jan. 30
" Saturday Calm mild Weather the People employed cutting Firewood. in the Evening set two Guns for two Wolves that has been seen on the Lake for these three days past. at night in the Evening caught one of them."

Jan. 31
" Sunday Little Wind Variable weather cloudy with a little snow in the Evening."

Feb. 1 1779
" Monday Wind Northerly a fresh breeze with cloudy snowey Weather. sent the People to the Nets at Noon returned brought 6 Sturgeon and 1 Pike, this morning got the other Wolf at the setting Gun."

Feb. 2
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a small breeze with clear sharp Weather till the Evening afterwards blowed fresh from the SE with snow. the people employed one man hunting, one man Net mending, the rest clearing away the snow from the works and cutt Firewood, three Partridges to day."

Feb. 3
" Wednesday Wind NW a stiff gale with a low drift. the men employed falling and carrying in Firewood."

Feb. 4
" Thursday Wind WSW a small breeze with clear Weather. sent the men to the Nets and to set another one had but little succefs, in the Evening two Indians boys arrived from our Hunter that pitched away the 21st of last Month they inform me that they have the most part of the Flesh of two Moose at their tent, for which please God I shall send the men for to morrow."

Feb. 5
" Friday Little Wind Variable Weather part cloudy part clear. the people employed one man cutting Firewood, sent the rest with three dogs for Moose flesh."

Feb. 6
" Saturday Wind Westerly a small breeze clear sharp Weather one man cutting Firewood. in the Evening the people returned brought 300 lb Moose flesh which will be six days allowance for the present Compliment of men."

Feb. 7
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday."

Feb. 8
" Monday Little Wind variable with fine clear Weather. sent four men to the Nets the rest employed about necefsary duty within doors. five Sturgeon and two Pike to day."

Feb. 9
" Tuesday Wind SW a small breeze Weather as Yesterday. men employed cutting Firewood. William Lieutit ailing with a pain in his back occasioned by a fall."

Feb. 10
" Wednesday Wind as Yesterday a strong Gale with clear Weather. the people employed geting Grafs for the Horse. William Lieutit as before."

Feb. 11
" Thursday Little Wind variable Weather fot the most part cloudy with a little snow towards Evening. one man employed within doors, sent the rest to the Nets brought six Sturgeon and one Pike also took up one Net to be repaired. William Lieutit on duty."

Feb. 12
" Friday Wind Easterly a small breeze Weather cloudy with snow at time one man cutting Firewood the rest getting Grafs for the Horse."

Feb. 13
" Saturday Calm clear Weather till Noon afterwards blowed a small breeze Northerly. the people employed two men cutting Firewood, sent the rest to the Nets had but little Succefs."

Feb. 14
" Sunday Little Wind variable with cloudy mild Weather."

Feb. 15
" Monday Wind Westerly a small breeze with clear fine Weather one man Net mending the rest cutting Firewood and getting Grafs for the Horse."

Feb. 16
" Tuesday Calm clear Weather the men employed two men cutting Firewood sent the rest to the Nets at Noon returned brought one small Sturgeon set one Net and brought one home which is worn out not worth repairing. late in the Evening three Indians arrived from U Basquia they have brought with them a triffle of Furrs but no Provisions of any kind. they say they had but two Guns amongst five of them and unfortunately broke both by which accident they have been in a starving Condition for some time past the want of Food has prevented them from procuring Furrs."

Feb. 17
" Wednesday Wind variable from SE to NW a stiff gale with cloudy Weather. one man employed in the Net way the rest cut Firewood, traded with the Indians and made them presents of some small Articles for their better encouragement to procure Furrs also to bring Provisions."

Feb. 18
" Thursday Wind Westerly a fresh gale with clear sharp Weather. the men employed about various duty. the Indians went away that arrived on the 16 Instant. our Nets having fallen off and Provisions but scant. I have therefore sent Nicholas Wishart away with the Indians to be supported, also to afsist in bringing in Provisions when they may kill a Moose."

Feb. 19
" Friday Wind SE a small breeze with clear mild weather. sent the men to the Nets, set a new Net and brought one home to be repaired, four small Sturgeon to day also two Partridges from Mr Turnor."

Feb. 20
" Saturday Wind NW a stiff gale with drift till Noon afterwards clear sharp Weather. two men employed Net mending the rest cutting Firewood."

Feb. 21
" Sunday Wind NE a fresh breeze Weather cloudy with a little snow towards Evening."

Feb. 22
" Monday Wind NW a fresh gale with drifting Weather. sent the People to the Nets but returned without succefs received four Partridges from Mr Turnor. Our Horse died last night. altho seemingly in good Spirit yesterday and eat hourly these two days past, which I suppose is owing to some disorder that we are not acquainted with."

Feb. 23
" Tuesday Wind WSW a fresh breeze with clear sharp Weather. the men employed cutting Firewood."

Feb. 24
" Wednesday Little Wind Southerly till the Evening afterwards blowed a stiff Gale from the SE Wea. for the most part clear sent two men a hunting, the rest employed about various duty. two Partridges to day."

Feb. 25
" Thursday Little Wind variable in the North quarter Weather clear and Thawed a little towards Noon. semt the men to the Nets. set a new Net in the room of one that is expended; Six Sturgeon and one Pike to day."

Feb. 26
" Friday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. two men Net mending the rest cut Firewood."

Feb. 27
" Saturday Wind Westerly a stiff breeze with clear sharp Weather. the People employed one man Net making, sent the rest to the Nets brought two Sturgeon and two Pike. in the Evening Nicholas Wishart and a Young Indian arrived brought a little Moose flesh but no Furrs he informs me that the Indians has killed but one Moose since they went from here."

Feb. 28
" Sunday Calm cloudy mild Weather at Noon Robert Davey arrived accompanied by a Indian man and his Wife whom they have been tenting with since they went from here. William Walker has brought 21 made Beaver which he traded from the Indian now arrived and those he went away with having seen no other Indians, notwithstanding they have been pitching to and again in search of them but without succefs. he also informs me that they have had great plenty of Provisions but the distance being so far off they could bring no more then what supported them here."

Mar. 1 1779
" Monday Wind SW a stiff breeze Weather clear till the Evening then cloudy with a little snow. one man making Net, sent the rest to the Nets but returned without Succefs. traded with the Indians that came Yesterday and made him a present for his better encouragement to come again. Nicholas Wishart and the Young Indian went away."

Mar. 2
" Tuesday Little Wind Southerly with clear mild Weather. the people employed William Walker and Robert Davey getting ready to afsist Mr Philip Turnor on his Journey up the Sas,kash,e,wan River to take a Survey of that Settlement, the rest cut Firewood and did other odd Jobbs. the Indian man and his Wife went away."

Mar. 3
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday till the Evening afterwards cloudy with a little snow. sent the People to the Nets had but small succefs."

Mar. 4
" Thursday Wind NW a fresh Breeze with clear Weather. the men employed making Nets and cutting Firewood. fitted out Mr Philip Turnor and three men more for their Journey up the River."

Mar. 5
" Friday Little Wind variable Weather clear and thawed a little under the Lee. one man Net making sent the rest to the Nets but returned without Succefs no Fish to be caught. - This morning Mr Philip Turnor and three men more with dogs to afsist him proceeded on his Journey. The names of the three people are William Walker, George Hudson & Robert Davey."

"Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Robert Longmoor
Dated Cumberland House 5th March 1779
Sir.
The want of Indians and not having Englishmen to spare untill the arrival of William Walker and Robert Davey has prevented me from sending to You till this time. The Bearer Mr Philip Turnor being by the Committee of the Honorable Hudsons Bay Company appointed their Surveyor for settling the Latitudes, Longtitudes, courses and Distances of the different Settlements Inland. You are to treat the said Gentleman with the greatest respect and accommodate him with every thing in the best manner You are able. - I am sorry to acquaint You that the Companys affairs are likely to fall off here greatly . we have had but very few Indians here and what they have brought is but triffling. our Trade at present not above 700 made Beaver and I do afsure You there is but little prospect of Trade or Provisions to be got here by reason of the Indians all gone up above to the Canadians. had it not been the great Succefs we had with our Nets in the Months of November and December, We should have been poorly off as We have had but little Succefs for Provisions coming in. You will therefore do well to get what Provisions you pofsibly can as We shall be short in hand here. - Should You find Your goods likely to fall short You will let me know by the return of Will. Walker that in case of an early breaking up of the River I may be able to forward some Goods to You if pofsible. You may Contract for three years at 30 £ each in consideration of Your still travelling Inland. You will also inform Isaac Batt that he is reinstated on the Companys Books and that Gentleman expects by his Vigelence and attention to their Interest, He will approve himself deserving of their Honors future Favors, his Wages is continued at 20 £ Per annum. the time he was absent from his duty must be lost as to his subsisting Contract and full time mentioned in that Contract compleated in the Companys Service. Charles Isham may contract three Years at 15 £ each and James Batt three Years at 12 £ each. I remain wishing You health and Happinefs and all under Your Command.
Your Obedient Hum. Servant
William Tomison
PS. You are to have as little Intercourse with the Canadians as pofsible and to take particular care that every thing be executed with the deepest Secresy. You will also endeavour to get the flesh Indian and others who You know to be trusty to afsist in going down to York Fort."

Mar. 6
" Saturday Wind South a stiff Gale with clear Weather. two men repairing a Net to set for small Fish the rest cut Firewood."

Mar. 7
" Sunday Little Wind Variable with fine clear Weather."

Mar. 8
" Monday Wind Easterly a stiff Gale with a low drift. the people employed one man Net making, one making hand barrows for carrying snow out of the Yard. myself with the rest set a Net for small fish. two Pike and two small Sturgeon from the other Nets."

Mar. 9
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. two men Net mending the rest fell Firewood. at Noon Charles Isham and James Leask accompanied by two Canadians arrived with a Pacquet from the upper Settlement. they inform me that there is great confusion between the Canadian Traders and the Indians and that they are all Striving against one another. by such proceedings they are driving the Indians into a state of Debauch and Indolence. William Walker also returned finding it necefsary to go farther as there is a good track. Mr Turnor with the other two men kept on their Journey. The two Canadians are going to one St. Germain that are Wintering at the head of this Lake."

" Copy of a Letter received from Mr Robert Longmoor
Dated Upper Settlement 23d February 1779
Sir
These is to acquaint You of the Company's Affairs since our departure. We had a bad pafsage in getting up October the 22d I arrived at the middle Settlement two days paddle above where I intended. I was stopped six days in the Ice, next day the River was pafsable. The Canadian Traders sent for me and enquired where I intended to Winter. I said in return their Interest and mine was different and I could not tell, their answer was they should be along side of me go where I would, next day Blondeaux made me the Offer of a House that was almost finished to Winter in, and the River fast I embraced the Offer as there was scarce Wood for Fire. - Three Houses beside me it is the Worst Winter that any of them has seen from their first being in the Trade, but at a great expence to the Company, I have had six men out with Goods but great part of the Goods was returned, the Indians will not Trade without Liquor and that is dangerous. I have made at this date as much as any man can expect, considering so many against me, and when an Indian comes scarce ever above ten or a dozen Skins and twenty for one? half none at all only a handfull of Provisions. I have a very good stock of Tobacco. Brandy if You can spare me four or five Gallon Kegs or more it will be of great service towards the Spring as the Trade will all be over before that the River breaks up. Knives Yew handle four or five dozen if You can spare them. Knives Roach three or four dozen. Ice Chifsels six and Hatchets small one dozen, nothing else as or I think will be wanted before the men arrives if they make good Expedition as I think they will as much as lays in their Power all the men has done to the best of their endeavour since leaving of Cumberland House . one Lame for these six Weeks past, this same date I set off to see what I can do with the Indians with Brandy and all other sorts of Trading Goods. I have taken the Account of all and put Malchom Rofs in Charge till I return as he is the fittest man that I can Trust. I have nothing more strange at present but Sir I remain
Your Humble Servant
Robert Longmoor
PS. One thing more if You can spare, not to disappoint Yourself at Cumberland House, but for a Gun or two, if not as I am. Sir
I Remain Yours.
R.L."

Mar. 10
" Wednesday Wind NNW a strong Gale with snow and drift. the men employed within doors."

Mar. 11
" Thursday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday till Noon afterwards more moderate. two Men Net making the rest cut Firewood. in the Evening five Indians arrived brought a little Provisions and a few Furrs. the two Canadians set off for St Germain's House."

Mar. 12
" Friday Wind SE a fresh gale with clear mild Weather. people employed one man Net making sent the rest to the Nets brought six Sturgeon and four Pike which made two days allowance. in the Evening one Indian man arrived who is one of those that came here the 16th of February. he informs me of some Moose flesh being at his tent which I shall send the Englishmen for to morrow. traded with the Indians that came Yesterday and gave them a present also sent a present by them to a Leader and others that they are tenting with."

Mar. 13
" Saturday Wind and Weather as Yesterday sent three men away for Moose Flesh, the rest cut Firewood. the Indian that came Yesterday has detained the others from going away and got drunk."

Mar. 14
" Sunday Wind SW a small breeze weather clear and thawed much at Noon. in the Evening Nicholas Wishart returned from the Indians. he says they have no Sucefs in Moose hunting since he went from here last. the Indians went away that came here the 12th Instant. the two Canadians came here on their Journey back from St Germains House. they inform me that he and his men are in a starving Condition for want of Food, not having Succefs in Fishing."

Mar. 15
" Monday Wind WNW a strong Gale with drifting Weather. at Noon two Indians with their Familys arrived brought a few furrs but little or no Provisions. three of these Indians came here the 30th November last. the badnefs of the Weather prevents the packet men from going away."

Mar. 16
" Tuesday Wind Variable Weather part cloudy part clear. towards Evening the men I sent for meat returned bringing with them 200 lb Moose flesh also three Indians arrived from above with some Provisions and about 15 made Beaver in Furrs. a few Pike from the Nets."

Mar. 17
" Wednesday Wind Variable from East to North a strong Gale with snow and drift. the men employed within doors traded with the Indians and made them a present for their better encouragement to come again in the Summer."

Mar. 18
" Thursday Wind SW a fresh gale with cloudy drifting Weather the men employed about various duty. Charles Isham and James Leask proceeded on their Journey back to the upper Settlement. the Indians that came on the 11th,15, and 16th went away with those that came the 11th and 16th Instant. I have sent William Walker and one man with some trading Goods to prevent their going to the Canadians, also to get as maney Canoes build as pofsible he can. the two Canadians went away."

" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Robert Longmoor
Dated Cumberland House 15th March 79
Sir
By the arrival of Charles Isham and James Leask March 9th I received Your kind Favor dated 23d February, which gave me great pleasure to hear that You and all under Your Command was well.
As to the Indians not bringing Furrs I am not in the least surprized at as the greater part of them can be supplied for Provisions, indeed I am pofsitive that Indians will never trouble themselves with any Laborious duty when they can live without it. - By the present proceedings of the Canadian Traders striving against each other, not only will but has already drove the Indians into a state of Debauch and Indolence. it is a great pity that such a body of Natives should be destroyed by a parcel of wild fellows such as Mac Cormick going about with Sword in hand threatening the Indians to make them Trade with him whether they will or not. - As to this place I do not expect to get 1500 skins this year. indeed I do not know where they are to come from as to the Northward You know there will be no Chance. by all account Pond, has gone so far into the A,tho,pus,cow Country that the Indians thinks it will be late the next Summer before he gets back. there is also Canoes at four different places besides, so that it will be of no use to send men with goods there as it will be impofsible for them to reach the Ind. before it is too late. - According to your desire I have sent by the Bearers 10 small Hatchets, 6 narrow Ice Chifsels, 4 dozen Yew handle Knives, 4 dozen of Roach ditto, as to one Gallon Kegs, I have not got one in the House, nor a Gun except them that was damaged on the Pafsage up, which is of no use either to me or You. - The bad Succefs we have had with our Nets lately and have had but little provision come in has shortened our Stock in hand greatly. You will therefore do Your endeavours to get Provisions to supply the men on their Journey down to York Fort. as I shall have none left without there comes a greater supply then I expect; I conclude wishing better Succefs to the Companys Affairs and remain
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
William Tomison
PS If you find it Convenient send whatever men You can spare down with Furrs by the earliest Oppertunity."

" Copy of a Letter sent to Bartholomew Blondeaux
Dated Cumberland House 15 March 1779
Sir
Permit me to return You my most gratefull thanks for Your generous supply benevolence in giving the Homorable Hudson's Bay company's Servants a Supply of Provisions last Fall when they were in Want, also for the House You was pleased to give them to Winter in. Mr Longmoor informs me He would have been necefsiated to get Wood enough to build a House, had it not been for your generous kindnefs in giving them one almost finished. I could Wish that every Trader would act with Honor as You do, it certainly would be better for the Publick Interest and more Beneficial for the Natives as You know the present proceedings is driving the Indians into a state of debauch and Indolence. Sir according to Your desire I have given Your men a supply of Provisions but not so much as Your generosity deservs, altho our Interest be different its no more then Humanity to give a supply of Provisions but not so much when Necefsity requires it. I am
Sir
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
William Tomison."

Mar. 19
" Friday A stiff breeze southerly Weather cloudy with snow towards Evening. sent all hands to the Nets but returned without Succefs."

Mar. 20
" Saturday Wind North a strong Gale with drifting Weather. the people employed two Men Net making the rest cut Firewood."

Mar. 21
" Sunday A small breeze between West and North Weather clear and sharp. in the Evening an Indian arrived from the upper Settlement. He was down with me last Summer to York Fort and afsisted Robert Longmoor up Sas,kash,i,wan River last Fall and by all account has been of great Service to him during the Winter but as he is come here without a note I suspect him to have done something and to have come clandestanly away from him altho he has affirmed to the contrary by telling me that Mr Longmoor was not at home when he came away and that he informed Malchom Rofs that he was going to set off for this place in order to bring a Canoe up in the Spring to carry down Furrs as there is but little prospect of Canoes to be build there. nothing will prove this but time and Patience. he is lame at present."

Mar. 22
" Monday Little Wind variable Weather clear and thawed a little under the Lee. men employed carrying snow out of the Yard."

Mar. 23
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a small breeze Weather as Yesterday three pike from the Nets."

Mar. 24
" Wednesday Wind variable between SW and West with clear fine Weather. thawed much towards Noon. the men employed carrying snow out of the Yard."

Mar. 25
" Thursday Little Wind Southerly with clear warm Weather. the people employed Net making and carrying snow out of the Garden. The Indian that came here on Sunday last still lame."

Mar. 26
" Friday wind variable Weather as Yesterday. the people employed one Man Net making one making Mallets for the Prefs. sent the rest to the Nets brought one Sturgeon three Pike and two Nemakuse."

Mar. 27
" Saturday Wind NW with a fresh breeze at times Weather clear and thawed much under the Lee. the men employed about various duties. in the Evening an Indian arrived from below for a supply of Ammunition."

Mar. 28
" Sunday Little Wind Northerly Weather as Yesterday."

Mar. 29
" Monday Wind Easterly a fresh gale Wea. cloudy with snow but thawed much as it fell. the people employed two men making Nets one about odd Jobbs the other two I sent away with the Indian that came on Saturday to bring some Moose flesh an Indian man arrived from the Northward with a triffle of Furrs to Trade."

Mar. 30
" Tuesday Wind NW a fresh breeze with a continuance of snow and Sleat. the men employed as Yesterday."

Mar. 31
" Wednesday Wind variable Weather part cloudy part clear and thawed much about Noon. sent three men to the Nets had but small succefs. the Indian that came the 29th went away also the Indian that came here the 21st Instant went along with him to see some of his Relations he has promised to return again and bring some birch Rind for a Canoe."

Apr. 1 1779
" Thursday Wind NE a stiff gale with cloudy drifting Weather. the people employed one man Net making two men carrying snow out of the Yard. in the Evening the two men I sent for Moose flesh returned bringing down with them 100 lb of half dried meat. two men arrived with their Familys from the Northward with Provisions but has not brought any Furrs except a few to trade Ammunition one of the above mens Sons afsisted Mr Turnor up from York Fort who I gave some encouragement to, to bring in Provisions in the winter but not to bring any Furrs has they had debt at York Fort also two Indians arrived from the Westward from those that came here the 11th of March they have brought a few Furrs and some Provisions to Trade. the Indians that came last inform me they see two Swans yesterday."

Apr. 2
" Friday Wind North a fresh gale with snow and drift. the men employed within doors. traded with the Ind. and gave them some encouragement. they have brought 100 lb Half dried Moose flesh, 40 lb Moose Noses, 40 lb Hearts, 200 lb beat meat and 20 lb Fat."

Apr. 3
" Saturday Wind NW a strong Gale with drifting Weather. the people employed two men Net making the rest cut Firewood."

Apr. 4
" Sunday Wind SE a small breeze Weather cloudy with a little Snow at times. the Indians that came here on Thursday went away except one man and his Wife that went to the Northward. I have sent two men to prevent them from Trading their Coats with the Canadians, as I did not choose to trade them, they having debt at York Fort. in the Evening the Indian man and his Family arrived that went from here January 21st they have brought 80 lb green moose flesh and a few Martins part of which they traded and got drunk."

Apr. 5
" Monday Wind Variable first of the day clear latter part cloudy with warm Weather. sent three men to the Nets brought two Sturgeon, two Nemakuse and two Pike, traded 60 lb beat meat and a few Martins from the Indians that came Yesterday."

Apr. 6
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday the men employed about necefsary duty. in the Evening saw one Flock of Swans flying to the Westward."

Apr. 7
" Wednesday Little Wind variable between SW and West weather part cloudy part clear with thaw. one man Net making, the other two employed about various duty."

Apr. 8
" Thursday Wind NE a fresh breeze with clear Weather sent the men to the Nets brought two Sturgeon also took up one Net which is worn out. at noon the two men returned that I sent with the Indians on Sunday last having conveyed them past the Canadian House a half days Journey; towards Evening two men with their Women arrived from below with provisions, also brought 23 1/2 made Beaver in Furrs which indeed is a miserable hunt for two men during the Winter and Spring Season."

Apr. 9
" Friday Wind SE a fresh gale Weather as Yesterday; two men Net making the rest employed about various duties. at Noon two Familys of Indians arrived being part of those that went from here March 17th they have brought a few Furrs and some Provisions. these are not going away but to hunt about here all the spring as also those here before."

Apr. 10
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday Weather for the most part clear with snow in the Evening. the people employed two men Net making the rest cut Firewood and did other odd Jobbs. in the Evening one Indian man arrived from the Northward with a few Furrs and some Provisions to trade."

Apr. 11
" Sunday Wind Westerly a stiff Gale with snow and drift, in the Evening the Indian that came Yesterday went away."

Apr. 12
" Monday Wind variable with clear Weather the people employed one man Net making one man repairing the Prefs, sent the rest to the Nets, returned with two Sturgeon sent two Indian men and two Boys away to bring birch rind for Canoes."

Apr. 13
" Tuesday Wind variable from South to North a stiff Gale with cold freezing Weather. the men employed Net making and cutting Firewood."

Apr. 14
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a small breeze with clear sharp Weather. the people employed two men Net making the rest bringing stuff for Paddles. at Noon four Men with their Women from the Northward came with Provisions and a few Furrs to trade."

Apr. 15
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday William Lieutit ailing with the Country distemper, the rest employed Net making and cutting Firewood. traded with the Indians that came Yesterday and presented them with a few trifling presents. at Noon they went away."

Apr. 16
" Friday Calm clear Weather till Noon afterwards blowed a fresh breeze Southerly. the People employed one man making Paddles sent the rest to the Nets eight Sturgeon and one Pike to day. William Lieutit on duty."

Apr. 17
" Saturday Little Wind Westerly Weather clear with thaw. the people employed one man making Wedges for the Prefs, two men Net making the rest employed about odd Jobbs without and within doors; in the Evening the Indian men and boys returned that I sent for birch rind returned without having found any fit for that Purpose."

Apr. 18
" Sunday Wind SW a fresh breeze with warm Weather at Noon two Indians men arrived from the Southward for a supply of Ammunition they brought 13 made Beaver in Furrs and some Provisions, they have been here twice in the Winter with Furrs and Provisions. they say the River is open in several places and much Water along shore on both sides."

Apr. 19
" Monday Wind Southerly light breezes With clear fine Weather. the people employed two men Net making sent the rest to the Nets brought 10 Sturgeon, they inform me that there is some Water in places on the Lake but no holes open as yet near to where the Nets are standing. several Geese and Swans seen to day received two of the latter from an Indian man. the Indians that came Yesterday went away this morning."

Apr. 20
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday till the Evening afterwards blowed a fresh gale from the NW the men employed drying Moose flesh to preserve it from spoiling."

Apr. 21
" Wednesday Wind SW a fresh breeze with clear warm Weather. sent three men to the Nets returned with Six Sturgeon and two Pike also brought home three Nets the rest employed at the Prefs packed 15 Bundles of Furrs. rec'd two Swans and two Geese from an Indian man."

Apr. 22
" Thursday Little Wind Variable Weather as Yesterday the men employed at the Prefs packed Nineteen Bundles of Furrs."

Apr. 23
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday till Noon afterwards blowed a stiff breeze from the SE the men employed as Yesterday packed eleven bundles of Furrs received one Swan and two Geese from Indians."

Apr. 24
" Saturday Wind SE a fresh gale with a little rain in the forenoon. in the Evening blowed fresh from the NW with snow. sent three men to take up the Nets returned with seven Sturgeon, the other two men employed about necefsary duty at the House received two Geese from Indians."

Apr. 25
" Sunday Wind NW a stiff Gale with cold raw cloudy Weather."

Apr. 26
" Monday Wind as Yesterday with cold freezing Weather the people employed two men mending Nets the rest cut Firewood and did other odd Jobbs."

Apr. 27
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a fresh breeze with cloudy Weather till the Evening afterwards clear and almost calm the men employed as Yesterday."

Apr. 28
" Wednesday Little Wind Variable from North to SE with clear fine Weather. the men employed about Various duty received two Geese from an Indian man."

Apr. 29
" Thursday Wind SE a small breeze with cloudy warm Weather. one man lineing Nets the rest employed within doors received four Geese from Indians."

Apr. 30
" Friday Wind Variable with clear warm Weather. The people employed two men lineing a Net and bailing the Cellars. two men cleaning away the Rubbish from within the Works. sent one man a hunting who returned without Succefs. a few Geese and Ducks from Indians. in the Evening two Indians arrived from the Northward but have brought nothing with them except one five Beaver skin Coat. they pretending to have left their Furrs three days Journey from here which is very unlikely Story to believe as they have come from the Canadian House this morning."

May 1 1779
" Saturday Wind and Weather as Yesterday till the Evening afterwards Cloudy with a small breeze from the Eastward. the men employed about necefsary duty within doors. received two Swans from an Indian Man; a rise of Water along shore which I suppose is occasioned by the breaking up of the River Sas.kash.i.wan which is turned the Current of the little River above back into the Lake. the two Idle Indians that arrived Yesterday went away."

May 2
" Sunday Wind ESE with a fresh breeze at times Weather clear in the Evening an Indian man with his Wife arrived from the Northward with a triffle of Furrs to Trade."

May 3
" Monday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. the men employed two men Net making the rest falling Wood for Stockadoes to remove the West quarter farther off from the House to make a proper place for laying Canoes up as they cannot be kept without the Works without being damaged by the Natives. the Stockadoes formerly put here is not above twenty foot clear from the House which is not sufficient for Gardens so that the Ground taken in before by Mr Joseph Hansom for Canoes is used for Gardens. received three Geese from Hunters. the Indian man and his Wife that arrived Yesterday went away."

May 4
" Tuesday Wind as before Weather clear till Noon afterwards cloudy. the men employed bringing in the Stockadoes and cutting some of them to proper lengths. four Geese from Hunters Mr Hansom very much out of Order with a Gravel complaint."

May 5
" Wednesday Wind as Yesterday Weather cloudy with rain at times. two men Net making the rest employed about various duties. Mr Hansom still ailing. indeed there is no Medicine here to give him any relief."

May 6
" Thursday Wind variable from SE to NW Weather as Yesterday the men employed two men Net making and bailing theWater out of the Cellars, the rest Shaveing Stockadoes and doing other necefsary duty. Mr Hansom something better."

May 7
" Friday Wind and Weather variable the men employed as Yesterday."

May 8
" Saturday Wind Variable in the North quarter a fresh breeze with clear Weather till the Evening afterwards calm. the men employed as before the Wind blowing fresh from the NW last night has drove the Ice greatly on this shore."

May 9
" Sunday Wind as Yesterday but lefs Weather for the most part Cloudy. Mr Phillip Turnor and Mr Longmoor arrived safe here having left the men with the Canoes and Furrs at the little River above not being able to come farther for the Ice they inform me that an open War has broken out between the Natives and the Canadians at their upper Settlement which has forced our men away before they could get Canoes built or even the old ones properly repaired which obliged them to leave part of their Provisions behind; the Canadians has also been obliged to quit their upper Settlement and come down to the lower one to defend themselves; John Cole who was formerly in Your Honors Service has been killed in the fray and several Indians wounded, they have also taken from the Canadians a large Quantity of Goods and drove them off not allowing them to take a single pipe of Tobacco as also leaving some of their Furs and Provisions behind. received 20 Geese from Hunters."

May 10
" Monday Little Wind Northerly with clear pleasant Weather. Mr Longmoor returned back to where he left the men and Canoes. I also sent three men to afsist him in carrying tents to cover the Furrs as they cannot be brought here untill the Ice is gone the land Carriage being very bad two men digging part of the garden ground. received twenty Geese from Indians."

May 11
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday the men employed about various duties. in the Evening two Canoes arrived from the West end of the Lake with Furrs and Provisions to trade. these are the Indians William Walker tented with in the Winter."

May. 12
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday the men employed two men digging a trench for the Stockadoes two men sawing Ribbons for ditto sent Mr Hansom and one man to bring the People from the little River below in the Evening they arrived within a quarter of a mile from here not being able to come farther for Ice carryed what Furrs and Provisions they have brought to the House; the Indian that came Yesterday traded a few Furrs for Liquor and got drunk."

May 13
" Thursday Wind Variable with clear warm Weather. the men employed drying the wet Furrs and doing other necefsary duty the quantity of Furrs received from Mr Longmoor is as follows Viz. Parchment Beaver 185, Wolves 606, Coat Beaver 127 1/2 lb, Foxes brown 576, Wenusks? 27, Quichohatches 9, Martins ordinary 8, Wejacks 2, Old case Cat 1, Old black bear 1, Castorum 10 lb? and 700 lb Fat, 200 lb beat meat & 200 lb dried meat in return for 2440 Beaver in Goods traded and otherwise expended; at Noon two Young Indians arrived from the U Basquia Leader with a few Furrs to Trade received 27 Geese from Hunters. the Ice a good deal broke on the Lake."

May 14
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. the people employed Magnus Twat and one man fitting Stockades into the Ribbons ready for setting up. Mr Longmoor and Malchom Rofs repairing Canoes. two men a hunting one man at work in the Garden the rest digging a trench for the Stockades and making the trennals? for the same. the Indians that arrived Yesterday went away. I have sent by them to the Leader Cat.ta.bob.in.ow and three men more a present of Brandy and Tobacco to induce them to come and afsist in carrying down Furrs."

May 15
" Saturday Wind and Weather as before till the Evening afterwards cloudy with a fresh breeze from the NE the men employed as Yesterday."

May 16
" Sunday Wind Northerly a fresh breeze with cloudy Weather. performed divine Service the Wind blowing fresh from the Northward last night has drove the Ice greatly on the shore."

May 17
" Monday Wind Southerly light breezes with warm Weather. the people employed four men repairing Canoes, four Men at the Prefs packed twenty one bundles of Furrs the rest fitting the Stockadoes into the upper Ribbons and digging a trench for the same. in the Evening Charles Isham and James Banks returned from hunting brought 12 Geese and two Ducks, they say there is but few Geese to be seen; seven Canoes of Canadians arrived from above, two of which are going to the Northward to Winter, the other five is going down to the great Carrying place; they have left Captain Tait? with 13 men up above but some of them seem to think the Natives will cut them off. they also inform me of several Indians that has not been in this Winter and that they are building Canoes which Indians they suppose will be down here in the Summer as also several of those who robbed them at their upper Settlement they still having Sons in their Custody, in consequence of such reports a greater Compliment of men will be required to be left here than what has been ordered by the Chief at York Fort. Capt. Graves having begged the favour of me to take care of a little Provisions for him. Mr Joseph Hansom Mr Phillip Turnor Robert Longmoor and myself thinking it not detrimental to Your Honors Interest I therefore given it room in the House as the said Trader has been of much more service in several Instances to Your Honors Servants in the Winter."

May 18
" Tuesday Wind variable from SE to ENE a fresh breeze Weather cloudy with Rain. the men employed about necefsary Jobbs within doors in the forenoon Capt. Graves, Mac Cormick and Holms embarked and went off. Mr Blondeaux, Grant and Jacobs still remain at their encampment about a quarter of a mile from the House the Ice in the Lake drove out of sight."

May 19
" Wednesday Wind SE a strong Gale with a continuance of hail and Sleet the men employed as Yesterday no working without doors."

May 20
" Thursday Wind Westerly a stiff Gale with snow till noon afterwards clear at Intervals the men employed cleaning the small Arms and doing other necefsary duty within doors received one Beaver from an Indian Hunter."

May 21
" Friday Wind as Yesterday with cold raw Cloudy Weather. sent two men a fishing and hunting , four men at the Prefs packed eighteen Bundles of Furrs, the rest employed fitting the Stockadoes to the upper Ribbon. the coldnefs of the Weather prevents us from getting Canoes repaired. the late Winds from the NW quarter has drove the Ice back upon this shore which prevents us from putting Nets down."

May 22
" Saturday Wind Variable light breezes with clear Weather the people employed Robert Longmoor and two men repairing Canoes sent two men to set a small fishing Net the rest employed as Yesterday. packed twelve Bundles of Furrs received four Geese from an Indian Hunter."

May 23
" Sunday Wind SW a stiff Gale with clear warm Weather took up the Net that was set Yesterday it being damaged with the Ice caught two small Pike."

May 24
" Monday Wind and Weather as Yesterday till Noon afterwards more moderate the people employed sent two men to set a Net at the River below. Robert Longmoor and two men repairing Canoes William Lieutit ailing, the rest putting up Stockadoes. Charles Isham and James Banks returned from hunting and fishing brought 60 Tickameg which made one day for all hands they say there is no Geese to be got. received two small Beaver from an Indian man; at three oClock in the Afternoon Mr Phillip Turnor proceeded on his Journey to take a Survey of this Lake afsisted by William Oman and Robert Davey."

May 25
" Tuesday Little Wind Variable till Noon afterwards a fresh breeze from the SE with warm Wea. sent Charles Isham and James Banks down to the fishing River below to kill fish, also sent two men to set three Sturgeon Nets they returned in the Evening with a few Pike from the Net that was set Yesterday, the rest employed as Yesterday William Lieutit on duty. at eight this morning the Canadians embarked and went off; the Indians that have been laying here all the Spring employd building Canoes of a middling size."

May 26
" Wednesday Wind and Walker as Yesterday. Mr Longmoor and two men employed building a midling size Canoe. sent two men to the Nets they returned in the Evening with eight Sturgeon, the rest finished setting up the Stockadoes and did other necefsary duty. Mr Phillip Turnor and the two men sent with him returned at Noon having paddled all round the West part of the Lake."

May 27
" Thursday Wind Westerly a stiff breeze with rain most part of the day the men employed about necefsary duty within doors from Sturgeon from the Nets."

May 28
" Friday Little Wind Variable Weather for the most part clear . the men employed about Various duty. at Noon William Walker Nicholas Wishart and the Indians they have been Tenting with arrived and several others who have build'd Canoes farther off; in all Sixteen, very poorly gooded they having Traded the better part of their Furrs with the Canadians in the Winter they have brought four middling size Canoes to trade according to promise last Autum; I received from Will. Walker 19 made Beaver in Furrs and one hundred Pounds of dried Provisions in return for 47 made Beaver in Goods sent with him as supplys and to encourage them to build Canoes. in the Evening the Leader Cat.ta.bob.in.now arrived with three Canoes also the Indian who Mr Hansom traded the Horse from in the Winter for which I have paid the said Indian 12 Beaver in Goods received a few fish from the Nets."

May 29
" Saturday Wind Variable from East to NW a fresh Gale Weather part cloudy part clear with rain at Intervals. the people attended the Gates and doing other odd Jobbs within doors. received 120 Tickameg and two Geese from the Fishermen also a few Pike and two Sturgeon from the Nets the Indians traded a few Furrs and some dried Provisions for Liquor and got drunk."

May 30
" Sunday Wind Variable between West and North squally Weather with flying showers at times still continue trading a few Furrs and Provisions for Liquor."

May 31
" Monday Wind variable light breezes with very warm Weather. Robert Longmoor finished Canoe building the rest employed about various duty. in the Evening ten Canoes arrived from above but no better gooded then those that arrived before. they paid their debts and traded some Liquor and got drunk; received four Sturgeon and a few small fish from the Nets."

June 1 1779
" Tuesday Wind Variable between NE and East weather part cloudy part clear with a fresh breeze at times Magnus Twatt making dead lights for the Windows with Soape holes, the rest attending the Gates and Pitching the Canoes ready for going down; traded a few Furs and some dried Provisions from the Indians; in the Evening Six Canoes of Inverleads arrived from the Northward. but have brought nothing except 10 Cased Cats, they having traded the rest of their Furrs with the Canadians at the Head of this Lake."

June 2
" Wednesday Wind NE a stiff Gale Weather Cloudy with rain at Intervals. Magnus Twatt employed as Yesterday the rest doing odd Jobbs within doors. packed Bundles of Furrs."

June 3
" Thursday Wind Northerly a strong Gale with cold raw Cloudy Weather. the men employed about necefsary duty within doors and without. packed 14 Bundles of Furrs, the badnefs of the Weather prevents Us from geting Canoes pitched."

June 4
" Friday Wind NW a fresh breeze till Noon afterwards varied to the Eastward with fine clear Weather. the men employed Magnus Twatt making dead lights for the Windows the rest attending the Gates and doing other triffling duty received ten small Sturgeon from the Nets also 200 lb green Moose flesh from Indian Hunters."

June 5
" Saturday Wind Easterly a fresh breeze Wea. part cloudy part clear served the men out Provisions for their Journey down also paid several Indians to carry Furrs down to York Fort. in the forenoon three Canoes arrived from the Northward brought 70 made Beaver in Furrs. a few fish from the Nets."

June 6
" Sunday Wind NE a small breeze with dark cloudy Weather. in the Evening packed two Bundles of Furrs that was brought by the Indians that arrived Yesterday, also paid Indians to carry down Furrs."

June 7
" Monday Little Wind Variable Weather as Yesterday. fitted out the Englishmen for their Journey down and sent of six Canoes to go down to the Wire to kill fish and wait there till I come I have sent with them 24 Bundles of Furrs. Magnus Twatt finished Six dead lights for the Windows two for each front and one for each end. has he is going down there is no time to make more at present. received four Sturgeon from the Nets."

June 8
" Tuesday Wind Northerly weather Cloudy with a fresh breeze at times. sent of 16 Eng. Canoes of English and Indians with Furrs for York Fort. examined the Remains of Trading Goods, Stores, and Provisions and gave William Walker a Copy of the Account he giving a receipt for the same."

" Received of Mr William Tomison the Charge of Cumberland House with the Trading Goods Stores &c as Pr Account Book.
Witnefs my hand
William Walker"


B.49/a/7


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