This is a virtually complete transcription of the Cumberland House Journal 1779-80 by Alex Nicol



" A Journal of the most remarkable Transactions and Occurences at Cumberland House from 9th June 1779 to 7th June 1780
By Mr William Tomison Master."
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" Journal of Occurrences and Transactions at Cumberland House by Mr Will. Tomison Master and others Commencing the 9th June 1779 and ending the 7th June 1780."
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" Cumberland House Journal AD 1779"


June 9 1779
" Wednesday Wind NE a middling stiff breeze Sometimes Cloudy other times Clear. Mr William Tomison Accompanied by 16 Canoes of English and Indians proceeded on their Journey down to York Fort. the men employed as Yesterday doing necefsary Jobs about the House."

June 10
" Thursday Wind Westerly a middling stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed two went and took up the Nets the rest cleaning their Cabbins."

June 11
" Friday Wind NE a stiff breeze Cloudy rainey Weather.The men employed doing odd Jobbs indoors. One Indian arrived with moose flesh which I traded."

June 12
" Saturday Wind NE Calmer Cloudy rainey weather. the men employed cutting a little firewood. Gave the Indians a little supply of Ammunition to go a hunting."

June 13
" Sunday Wind the same moderate clear Weather. Read Divine Service for the day five tents of Indians uppon our Plantation."

June 14
" Monday Wind variable clear moderate Weather. The men employed Two mending fishing Nets, Two making Barrs pr Windows and Doors. Two doing necefsary Jobbs about the House. Isaac Batt yet ailing. four Tents pitched off our Plantation a hunting."

June 15
" Tuesday Wind variable squally weather with Showers of Rain. the men employed Two setting down 4 Sturgeon Nets. The rest doing odd Jobbs within doors. One poor female Indian Deceased and the rest pitched away. having no relation here at the time I sent two men to Dig a grave."

June 16
" Wednesday Wind variable Clear moderate Weather The men employed four overhaleing the Provisions. One man Net mending Myself and one man went to the Sturgeon Nets got very little Succefs. At noon arrived 6 Canoes of Traders from the Beaver Lake. In the Evening one Canoe of Indians arrived from Warr. brought a few Furrs."

June 17
" Thursday Wind and weather the same as Yesterday. The men employed Cutting a little wood and doing other necefsary Duties, great succefs from our fishing Nets. Two more set to day."

June 18
" Friday Wind and weather the same as yesterday. The men doing their own necefsarys indoors, only two went to the nets and one net mending. In the Evening one Canoe arrived brought a few Skins traded and went away."

June 19
" Saturday Wind variable Cloudy calm weather. The Mufscatoes being so numerous the men could not stand to work out of doors."

June 20
" Sunday Wind Westerly a still breeze cloudy Weather Read Divine Service."

June 21
" Monday Wind variable hot Sultry Weather with Thunder and Lightning the men employed two at the fishing nets very great Succefs. The rest employed about necefsary Duties indoors for the Mufscatoes are so very numerous it is impofsible for the men to work out Except upon the water. in the Evening one Canoe arrived that did accompany Mr Tomison seven days on his Journey down to York Fort But the Indians Wife falling by with a swelled Leg that obliged him to turn back."

June 22
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a middling stiff breeze hot clear weather Water swells very fast in our Lake. The men employed at their Sindry duty. middling Succefs of Fish."

June 23
" Wednesday Wind variable a middling Stiff breeze. The men employed about sindry Duty. Small succefs from our nets. In the Evening three Canoes arrived brought a few Skins."

June 24
" Thursday Wind Westerly a middling Stiff breeze Clear Weather. The men employed felling firewood and setting it up."

June 25
" Friday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday. The men employed as before Except two to the Nets middling Succefs took three up being very much Damaged."

June 26
" Saturday Wind NE a stiff breeze. The men employed carrying firewood to a Pile and setting it up."

June 27
" Sunday Wind East a middling stiff breeze Clear Weather Read Divine Service."

June 28
" Monday Wind NW a stiff breeze Clear Weather. The men employed felling firewood, & one man net mending."

June 29
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed about sindry Jobbs about the House. Two men at the fishing Nets, but very little Succefs owing to the great flow of Water &c. one man net mending. in the Evening one Canoe arrived brought a few Furrs."

June 30
" Wednesday Wind variable Cloudy hot Sultry weather. The men employed as Yesterday. at noon arrived one Canoe with some moose flesh which is the first green flesh since about the time our men embarked."

July 1 1779
" Thursday Wind variable cloudy mild Weather. The Canoe that arrived on tuesday went away seemingly very well pleased. The men employed doing triffling Jobbs about the House."

July 2
" Friday Wind calm Cloudy Weather. The People employed about necefsary Jobbs.Two men taking up the nets. At noon arrived Mr Petter Pond with three Canoes from the Northward very much diftrefsed for want of food having bad Succefs on his Journey down his Canoes being broke upon the falls. He required some little Supplies from me which I did give him with the greatest Civility for their kindnefs shown to Us such as 3 lb of Tobacco, Two pounds of Powder and two Berks of beat meat. He was so far that He traded with the northward Indians that Mr Samuel Hearne was along with Mittee'na'pew and his gang. He has been two Summers upon this Voiage made 140 Packs each 90 lb but was obliged to leave the most part of them behind, mostly parchment and Coat beaver. He informed me of one carrying Place to be about 12 miles over being so steep they was eight days a Carrying over it. I have heard of the same by the Natives but their information was a Eleven Days. In the Evening two Canoes arrived brought some moofe flesh; The frenchmen being hear at the said time starving, I made bold to give them a Share of it which the Master was very thankful nay he had even traded his Cloath's off his Back."

July 3
" Saturday Wind Westerly a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. no working out the mufscatoes being so numerous. The french and Indian Canoes went away."

July 4
" Sunday Wind Westerly a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather Read Divine Service."

July 5
" Monday Wind the same a stiffer gale Cloudy Weather with small mefsling Rain. The men employed carrying firewood and setting it up in a Pile for the Winters Use."

July 6
"Tuesday Wind NW a stiff breeze Cloudy rainey Weather. The men employed felling firewood."

July 7
" Wednesday Wind NW a middling breeze in the forenoon, but towards Evening Calmed. The men employed setting up firewood. In the night arrived one Canoe brought a little moose flesh which I traded."

July 8
" Thursday Wind variable Calm cloudy hot Sultry Weather Mufkatoes very numerous all the Day."

July 9
" Friday Wind variable Cloudy hot weather. The People employed about sindry Duty. three Tents of Indians upon out Plantation."

July 10
" Saturday Wind Easterly a stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The people employed cutting a little firewood two tents of Indians went away."

July 11
" Sunday Wind Calm cloudy hot Weather Read Divine Service."

July 12
" Monday Wind Easterly a middling stiff breeze Clear Weather. The men employed Two setting fishing Nets the rest felling firewood."

July 13
" Tuesday Wind and Weather the same as Yetserday. The men employed felling firewood and doing other necefsary Jobbs about the House."

July 14
" Wednesday Wind variable Calm cloudy Weather. The men employed felling firewood, one net mending and two at the fishing Nets middling Succefs of Small fish."

July 15
" Thursday Wind Westerly a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed felling firewood Two at the Nets and one Net making."

July 16
" Friday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday. The men Employed felling firewood and Two at the nets returned with middling Succefs. Our fishing nets are about Eleven miles from here."

July 17
" Saturday Wind NW a stiff breeze squally Weather with thunder and Rain. The men cutting a little firewood and doing little Jobbs about the House."

July 18
" Sunday Wind NW a middling breeze Sometimes Cloudy other times Clear Read Divine Service."

July 19
" Monday a fine Calm day. The men Employed felling and setting up firewood and Two at the nets which returned with a fine parcle of fish."

July 20
" Tuesday Wind Westerly Calm hot Sultry Weather. the men employed setting up Firewood and Two at the Nets middling Succefs."

July 21
" Wednesday Wind variable hot Sultry Weather. the Mufskatoes being so numerous the men Could not work out."

July 22
" Thursday Wind NE a middling stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed working in the Garden, and two at the nets returned with a few Small Fish."

July 23
" Friday Wind and weather the same as yesterday. The men employed Setting up the wood in a Pile for the Winter's firing. Two at the Nets 4 Sturgeon."

July 24
" Saturday Wind Easterly a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed as yesterday. middling Succefs from our Nets."

July 25
" Sunday Wind variable hot Sultry Weather. Two men went to the Nets, incase the fish should be spoiled being too long Caught."

July 26
" Monday Wind variable hot Sultry Weather. The men employed Two at the nets middling Succefs. The rest Setting up Firewood."

July 27
" Tuesday Wind Southerly hot Sultry Weather Cloudy with a small Shower of Rain. The men employed indoors."

July 28
" Wednesday Wind variable cloudy hot Sultry Weather. The men employed Two a hunting returned with three Ducks, and two at the fishing Nets. Caught a few small Fish."

July 29
" Thursday Wind variable Cloudy Weather with rain. The men employed about sindry duty. Two men a hunting not any Luck, and two at the fishing Nets, took up five, only two Sturgeon."

July 30
" Friday Wind Easterly a moderate breeze Clear Weather. At noon arrived two young fellows for Tobacco, Which informed me of seven Canoes of Cowentow Indians, and in the Evening they arrived with a few Skins. But when Drunk very Troublesome and saucy if incase we was not the Strongest Side They would have given Battle They are got to such a Pitch that they don't mind giving open? engagement. The men employed as Yesterday."

July 31
" Saturday Wind variable almost calm Clear Weather. The men employed about necefsary duty indoors. Two men at the nets middling Succefs. In the Evening one Canoe arrived with some green moose flesh."

Aug. 1 1779
" Sunday Wind variable hot sultry Weather. Read Divine Service."

Aug. 2
" Monday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday. The men employed mending nets and doing other necefsary Duties."

Aug. 3
" Tuesday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday. The men employed as before. four Canoes arrived which I had sent a hunting brought very little with them."

Aug. 4
" Wednesday Wind Southerly a moderate breeze overcast hot Sultry Weather. The men employed as before. Seven Canoes arrived brought very little or any thing with them. Three Tents upon our Plantation."

Aug. 5
" Thursday Wind Southerly a moderate breeze Clear hot Sultry Weather. The men employed about sindry Duty, very little Succefs from our Nets. and not likelyhood to be any Stock of Provisions in the House this Season."

Aug. 6
" Friday Wind variable hot Sutry Weather. The men employed as yesterday, only two laying out watching the Nets very little Succefs from them owing to the Stillnefs of the Weather lately."

Aug. 7
" Saturday Wind variable hot Sultry Weather. The men employed as yesterday very little Succefs from our Nets. If it had not been for neting a few fish We should not have had a mouthful to have puten in our mouths. The Indians that served this House with Provisions are gone to Warr and what is They cannot hunt, owinng to the Calmnefs of the Weather and the Mufkatoes being so numerous."

Aug. 8
" Sunday Wind NW a moderate breeze Clear Weather Read Divine Service."

Aug. 9
" Monday Wind Southerly a moderate breeze Clear Weather. The men employed Two at the fishing Nets, middling Succefs. The rest doing necefsary Jobbs about the House. In the Evening 4 Canoes arrived with a little dried Provisions."

Aug. 10
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a middling breeze Clear Weather The People employed as yesterday. middling Succefs from our nets."

Aug. 11
" Wednesday Wind a middling stiff breeze NW Clear Weather. The People employed overhauling the Provisions &c and two at the nets middling Succefs of Small fish."

Aug. 12
" Thursday Wind variable a middling Stiff breeze Clear Weather. The people employed cutting firewood and two at the Nets middling Succefs. In the Evening two Canoes arrived brought very little or any thing with them. Six of the Seven Canoes that arrived the 30th of July went away for their own Country."

Aug. 13
" Friday Wind NW a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with Rain. Two men at the nets very little Succefs The rest employed about necefsary duty about the House. In the Evening two Canoes arrived brought a little Provisions and traded ready for setting off the next morning."

Aug. 14
" Saturday Wind NW a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with Rain. The men employed as Yesterday very little Succefs from our nets."

Aug. 15
" Sunday Wind variable Cloudy Weather a middling stiff breeze with Rain. Read Divine Service. In the Evening two Canoes arrived with a little green moose flesh which I traded."

Aug. 16
" Monday Wind variable Calm Weather. The men employed cutting up a little firewood. Two at the nets very little Succefs, took up all the Nets to mend and to refresh the Twine and one man net mending. four Canoes went a hunting. in the Evening two arrived brought a little Provisions."

Aug. 17
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a middling Stiff breeze with thunder Rain and Lightning One Canoe arrived brought a little Provisions."

Aug. 18
" Wednesday Wind NE a stiff breeze cloudy Weather with Rain. The two Canoes that arrived on monday went away. In the Evening one arrived brought a little Provisions."

Aug. 19
" Thursday Wind NW a Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with Thunder Lightning and Rain. The men employed as yesterday. Two Canoes arrived brought very little or any thing with them."

Aug. 20
" Friday Wind NW a Stiff breeze Cloudy weather with Rain. The men mending fishing Nets and cutting a little firewood."

Aug. 21
" Saturday Wind variable a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy with Rain. The men employed cutting a little firewood and net mending. In the Evening three Canoes arrived brought a little green moofe flesh."

Aug. 22
" Sunday Wind variable In the morning Cloudy but towards noon Clear moderate Weather. Read Divine Service. In the Evening Two Canoes arrived from the Barren ground brought a little fat and a few Skins and now are staying to accompany our men up the River. This man is one of our Leaders which is Just come from Warr. his tribe of young fellows he has left behind to Procure Provisions against our Peoples arrival and has promised that he will accompany our People down to York Fort next Summer. His stopping here will be some little Expence."

Aug. 23
" Monday Wind middling a stiff breeze But at noon variable Cloudy Weather. The men employed about sindry Duties about the House."

Aug. 24
" Tuesday Wind Calm hot and Sultry. Two men I sent a hunting returned but had no Luck. Two Setting of fishing nets brought a few small fish and Two net mending."

Aug. 25
" Wednesdy Wind WbN a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed a hunting returned not having any Luck. Two men net mending and Two at the fishing Nets middling Succefs."

Aug. 26
" Thursday Wind the same as yesterday Weather Clearer; The men employed Two at the fishing Nets little Succefs from them. Two men net making. Myself and one man a hunting killd 6 Ducks. The families of those who are accompanied our People down to York Fort are laying here Starving."

Aug. 27
" Friday Wind and Weather the same as Yesterday but moderate.The men employed at their Sindry Duty about the House. In the Evening four Canoes arrived brought very little or any thing with them."

Aug. 28
" Saturday Wind WbN Sometimes Clear other times Cloudy with Rain. sent two men a hunting. the rest employed as yesterday middling Succefs from our Nets. In the Evening four Canoes arrived brought a little dried moose flesh."

Aug. 29
" Sunday Wind variable Weather sometimes Cloudy other times Clear. Read Divine Service."

Aug. 30
" Monday Wind NW a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather . The men employed Two a hunting returned without any thing. Two net making and Two at the Nets very little Succefs."

Aug. 31
" Tuesday Wind WbN a middling Stiff breeze with Lightning Thunder and Rain. The men employed Two net making Two at the fishing Nets caught very little The rest cutting up a little firewood."

Sept. 1 1779
" Wednesday Wind WbN a moderate Cloudy weather. The men employed as yesterday. In the Evening 3 Canoes arrived brought a little Provisions."

Sept. 2
" Thursday Wind NW a moderate breeze fine weather. The men employed Two net making and the rest drying Provisions."

Sept. 3
" Friday Wind NE a moderate breeze Cloudy Weather. the men employed two net mending Two a hunting brought one Goose and Two Ducks. The rest Cutting a little firewood."

Sept. 4
" Saturday Wind Easterly a middling breeze Cloudy Weather with Rain. The men employed doing their own necefsarys indoors. Sent two men about Thirty miles down Saskachiwan River to Catch Fish."

Sept. 5
" Sunday Wind NE a moderate breeze Sometimes Clear other times Cloudy Read Divine Service. In the Evening arrived seven Canoes three of which came from York Fort with Goods Seemingly in good Condition. I received a note from the Bearers Wrote by Mr William Tomison that He desired I would pay no Indians till his arrival."

" A copy of a Letter from Mr Wm. Tomison
Chaketenaw River July 31st 1779
William Walker
Sir I send this to inform you that I enjoy a state of good Health at Present wishing this may find you and all under your Command in the same. As the Chief part of the Indians is gone up steel River I take the Oppertunity to send this by them. Also a list of the Number of bundles you are to receive from each man also Guns and Kettles, flour, Oatmeal &c. You are not to pay them until I arrive. If any of the Packages should be wet you will do well to open them takeing a true accunt of the Contents.
I remain your
friend & well wisher."

Sept. 6
" Monday Wind NE a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed Cutting a little firewood and net mending. Six Tents of Indians upon our Plantation."

Sept. 7
" Tuesday Wind NW moderate weather Cloudy with Rain The men drying Provisions and net mending."

Sept. 8
" Wednesday Wind WbN a middling Stiff breeze Clear Weather. In the morning arrived a Canoe from our fishermen whch brought 50 Tickameg and most of them were Stinking, being weather bound Two days. The men employed about the House."

Sept. 9
" Thursday Wind a moderate breeze clear Weaher. The Two Fishermen arrived brought about 25 Fish of Sorts and 8 Geese. The men employed Two net mending and Two more I have sent off to kill what they can fish or Flesh. In the Evening one Canoe arrived brought one Thigh of venison."

Sept. 10
" Friday Wind Westerly a middling stiff breeze Clear Weather. The men employed cleaning about the House and net mending; At noon arrived 5 Canoes which brought Goods up from York Fort I gave them Liquor as encouragement and they got Drunk; also 5 Canoes of grafs River Indians which brought Provisions and a few Skins."

Sept. 11
" Saturday Wind SW a middling breeze Clear Weather. The Indians still Drunk. At noon arrived Mr William Tomison accompanied with 21 Canoes English and Indians."

Sept. 12
" Sunday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday. overhaling Trading Goods Stores &c and found it to Answer the accounts received from Will Walker. In the Evening arrived one Canoe brought a little moose flesh."

Sept. 13
" Monday Wind the same Weather Cloudy. The men employed about odd Jobbs in the House myself and three men packed six bundles for the Upland Expedition. In the Evening one Canoe arrived brought a little moose flesh & a few Geese."

Sept. 14
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a moderate breeze hot and Sultry Clear Weather. The men employed about various Duties Repairing Canoes for the Expedition and paying off the Indians that brought Goods from the Factory. In the Evening one Canoe arrived brought a few Geese and some moose flesh. Still four Canoes of Indians not yet arrived that accompanied me from York Fort."

Sept. 15
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a moderate breeze Clear Weather. The men employed repairing Canoes mending Chymney's and doing other various Duties. Two Tents went off the Plantation Packed eight Bails of goods for the Expedition."

Sept. 16
" Thursday Wind Southerly a middling breeze Clear Weaher. The men employed about various Duties Triming Canoes pitching them and packing up Goods for the Expedition. Received a few Geese from Indians. Two tents of Indians went away trusted them a little Debt."

Sept. 17
" Friday Wind Southerly a stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed about various Duties and getting themselves in readinefs for to go up the River Saskachiwan, finished packing up Goods for the said Voyage and Paid off the Indians."

Sept. 18
" Saturday Wind SW a middling Stiff breeze part Cloudy and part Clear finished repairing Canoes and fitted out the men to go up a Loft. One Tent of Indians went off the Plantation."

Sept. 19
" Sunday Wind NE a Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with Rain. In the Evening four Canoes arrived with Goods from York Fort."

Sept. 20
" Monday Wind variable Cloudy Weather with Rain. This Day I sent off Robert Longmoor accompanied by 16 men Viz. Isaac Batt, James, James Spence Jun., Magnus Twatt, Malchom Rofs, Charles Isham, Nichol Wishard, James Tate, Edward Wishart, William Copeland, James Sanderson, Robert Davey, William Omen, Mitchel Omen, William Lutit, William Gray. I myself proposing to go tomorrow I have sent by the above persons 4150 1/3 Beaver in Trading Goods. Alfo what stores are required. Took a survey of trading Goods Stores &c and put William Walker in Charge. In the Evening arrived 5 Canoes brought a few Geese some dried Provisions and a few furrs. Paid the Indians that arrived Yesterday, trusted them a little Debt and They went away."

Sept. 21
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed shifting Provisions and doing other necefsary Jobbs in Doors."

Sept. 22
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a middling stiff breeze cloudy Weather. The men employed doing odd Jobbs about the House. Mr Tomison embarked for his Voiage up the Safkachiwan River."

Sept. 23
" Thursday Wind variable mild Weather The men employed, one Net mending and the rest setting fishing Nets and Hunting."

Sept. 24
" Friday Wind variable moderate Weather part Cloudy part Clear. The men employed Two net making. The men that I sent a hunting returned with one Goose & 7 Ducks. In the Evening Three Canoes arrived brought some Geese which I traded but they would not trade them for any thing but Liquor."

Sept. 25
" Saturday Wind variable moderate Weather. The men employed cleaning about the House. Those that arrived yesterday went away."

Sept. 26
" Sunday Wind Southerly moderate part cloudy and part Clear. In the Evening arrived two Canoes loaded with green moofe flesh being that I had such a great Supply of fresh Geese obliged me to have it dried, or else refuse it and that would have afronted the Indians, me haveing it dried made it some little more Expence."

Sept. 27
" Monday Wind Southerly a moderate breeze part Cloudy and part Clear.The men employed drying moose flesh. One man James Wafs laying by with a boil upon his knee. At noon arrived one Canoe with three French Master traders accompanyed by 8 Canoes of their own Seemingly not to be so free in giving to the Natives as usual. Stayed here about two Hours and then embarked. In the Evening one Canoe arrived brought one moofe green."

Sept. 28
" Tuesday Wind the same Weather Cloudy with small Rain. The men employed about odd Jobbs about the House. Those that arrived the 26th and yesterday went away. one Sturgeon from our Nets."

Sept. 29
" Wednesday Wind SE a moderate breeze Clear Weather. The men employed Two drying moose flesh and Two net mending and one man still ailing of a bad knee."

Sept. 30
" Thursday Wind southerly a middling stiff breeze Clear Weather. The men employed about necefsary Jobbs about the House. Two men at the Sturgeon nets middling Succefs."

Oct. 1 1779
" Friday Wind EbS a middling stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with mifsty rain. Two men net making and Two I have sent a hunting. This day arrived two Canoes of Canadian Traders bound for the Beaver Lake and that way. One stayed here about an Hour and then embarked for his Winters Quarters. The other one is to reside near the mouth of this Lake his staying here owing that is Canoe being broke and intends to embark to morrow."

Oct. 2
" Saturday Wind Northerly a stiff breeze Clear Weather with a mifty rain. One of the french Canoes that arrived yesterday Could not embark owing that the sea's run two high. The men employed as Yesterday."

Oct. 3
" Sunday Wind NW a Stiff breeze Cloudy cold Weather. The french Canoe still Weather bound."

Oct. 4
" Monday Wind Northerly a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed Two net mending Two a hunting returned with Geese and Ducks. myself and one man at the Sturgeon nets middling Succefs. This Day the french Canoe Embarked for their Winters Quarters about 30 miles below Us at the mouth of this Lake."

Oct. 5
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed Two net making one Wood Cutting and Two a hunting returned with a Eleven Ducks. One Tent of Indians Pitched away for their Winters Quarters Trusting them a little Debt."

Oct. 6
" Wednesday Wind EbS a moderate breeze. The men employed Two net makeing Two at the Sturgeon nets only one fish, and Two I sent a hunting for three nights."

Oct. 7
" Thursday Wind Southerly a moderate breeze part Cloudy & part Clear. The men employed Two net making and one opening Gaskit?."

Oct. 8
" Friday Wind NW a middling Stiff breeze part Cloudy and part Clear. The men employed as Yesterday."

Oct. 9
" Saturday Wind WbN Cloudy windy Weather. In the Evening our men arrived that went away the 6th brought 15 Geese and 24 Ducks the rest employed net making and Cutting a little firewood."

Oct. 10
" Sunday Wind Westerly a fine moderate Day. Read Divine Service."

Oct. 11
" Monday Wind SE moderate Weather part Cloudy and part Clear. The men employed Two net makeing and opening Rope yarn's for to make net Lines off."

Oct. 12
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a middling Stiff breeze part Cloudy and part Clear. The men employed one net makeing one opening Spun Yarn myself and one man a hunting killd 13 Ducks. In the Evening Two Canoes arrived Loaded with Provisions and a few Skins."

Oct. 13
" Wednesday Wind Eafterly a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with little Snow in the morning the two Canoes that arrived Last night went away. The men employed about various Duties. in the Evening the two men that was a hunting returned with 16 Geese and 8 Ducks."

Oct. 14
" Thursday Wind variable from East to North Cloudy snowing Weather. The men employed Two net making one opening Spunyarn Myself and one a hunting returned with one Goose and 7 Ducks."

Oct. 15
" Friday Wind Westerly a very great Storm with Snow Drifting Cloudy Weather frose very hard in the night most of the Bay's being fast. The men employed Two net makeing.The rest spinning yarn's for net Lines."

Oct. 16
" Saturday Wind and Weather the same as Yesterday. The men employed as before. This is the hardest gale I ever saw."

Oct. 17
" Sunday Wind and Weather the same as Yesterday but more favourable towards noon and then calmed. Read Divine Service. This day our Lake being frose from one Side to other."

Oct. 18
" Monday Wind variable Weather Clear The men employed Two net makeing and three makeing net Lines of fettles that came off the Keggs &c. At noon arrived James Spence Junior and one home Indian with a Packet from Mr William Tomison by foot owing to the early setting in of our Lake. their Cargo they also landed and left about 3 miles from thus which I shall send for tomorrow."

" A copy of a letter received from Mr William Tomison
Saskachiwan River River October the 10th about 30 miles above the Canadian Set.
Sir
This is to inform you we arrived with every thing Safe on the 8th of October at the place appointed where We intend to erect a Temporary Settlement which for Distinction I intend to call Hudson House.
I have returned the low Country Indian who afsisted in Carrying up Goods as also James Spence Junior. I have sent by them five bundles of furrs Containing 200 made Beaver. you are to pay the Indian 16 Beaver in Trading Goods which you are to Charge in your Expences.
You are to take care what Indians may visit you in the Winter to treat them kindly and give all pofsible encouragement you can for Provisions.
You will employ the men before too much Snow to Collect some timber for building a victualing Shed as you know the present one is not fit for keeping Provisions in, by Reason of the Scellar being under neath. I conclude Wishing you health and happinefs and Succefs to the Companys Affairs.
I remain your most Humble Servant
William Tomison"

Oct. 19
" Tuesday Wind NE a middling stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with a little Snow. Sent the men for those Bundles of furrs mentioned Yesterday and they returned with them all in good Condition. One man James Banks laying by with a swelld Thigh."

Oct. 20
" Wednesday Wind and Weather still the same as yesterday but in the night fell a great flight of Snow. The men employed Two making net Lines. The rest shoveling Snow and Cutting of firewood."

Oct. 21
" Thursday Wind Northerly a very hard gale Cloudy Weather with Snow The men employed about various Duties indoors."

Oct. 22
" Friday Wind Northerly a middling Stiff breeze till noon and then cleared The men employed as yesterday."

Oct. 23
" Saturday Wind variable Clear Weather. The men employed Three men and myself net making Two Cutting firewood and Shoveling Snow. One yet ailing of a swell'd Thigh."

Oct. 24
" Sunday Wind Southerly a moderate breeze Clear Weather Read Divine Service."

Oct. 25
" Monday Wind Easterly a moderate breeze Cloudy hot Sultry Weather. The great quantity of snow that fell is nothing but glush. The men employed Two net making Two Cutting a little firewood. One Spinning ropeyarns for net Lines and one yet ailing of swelled Thigh."

Oct. 26
" Tuesday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday. The men employed about various Duties about the House."

Oct. 27
" Wednesday Wind Easterly till noon and then changed SW Cloudy rainey Weather; The men employed Two sideing a net, Two digging a trench and Two cutting a little firewood."

Oct. 28
" Thursday Wind variable clear mild Weather. The men employed about various kind of Duty."

Oct. 29
" Friday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday The men employed setting up some dry Wood for the Winters Use."

Oct. 30
" Saturday Wind Westerly a moderate breeze Clear Weather The men employed at various Duty."

Oct. 31
" Sunday Wind variable Clear mild Weather Read Divine Service."

Nov. 1 1779
" Monday Wind Easterly part cloudy and part Clear. The men employed Two siding a net. myself and one man Angling but got nothing. The rest Cutting up firewood."

Nov. 2
" Tuesday Wind Easterly Clear sharp Weather most part of the men employed as yesterday only myself and one man looking out for some Timber for builing a new victualing Shed. The prersent one not being serviceable for the purpose only in the Winter owing to the Dampnefs that strikes from the Scellar."

Nov. 3
" Wednesday Wind variable Cloudy Weather. The men employed felling Timber and squaring them."

Nov. 4
" Thursday Wind Westerly a moderate breeze Clear Weather. The men employed four sideing Timber. Two men & myself and one home Indian Setting three Sturgeon Nets and looking for those that was Lost at the setting in of the Lake."

Nov. 5
" Friday Wind WbS a moderate breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed felling and sideing Timber."

Nov. 6
" Saturday Wind Westerly a mddling breeze Clear mild Weather. The men employed four squaring Timber and Two men and myself at the Sturgeon Nets middling Succefs set another Sturgeon net."

Nov. 7
" Sunday Wind variable Cloudy hot Sultry Weather. Read Divine Service."

Nov. 8
" Monday Wind variable Clear mild Weather The men employed four sideing Timber myself and Two men at the nets had middling Succefs."

Nov. 9
" Tuesday Wind SE a moderate breeze Cloudy mild Weather The men felling and sideing Timber."

Nov. 10
" Wednesday Wind SE a moderate breeze Clear hot Sultry Weather. The men employed as yesterday."

Nov. 11
" Thursday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday. The men employed four squaring Timber. Two men and myself at the fishing Nets middling Succefs."

Nov. 12
" Friday Wind SE Weather very hot and Sultry blowed up a great many holes upon our Lake. The men employed six felling and sideing Timber. The home Indian and myself getting wood to make Dogs Sled's."

Nov. 13
" Saturday Wind variable Clear hot Sultry Weather. The men employed as yesterday."

Nov. 14
" Sunday Wind NE a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather In the Evening some small Hail fell. Read Divine Service."

Nov. 15
" Monday Wind variable Cloudy hot Sultry Weather. The Ice in the Lake weakning. The men employed Two and myself at the fishing nets middling Succefs. The rest sideing Timber. The home Indian that is staying here kill'd 5 Partridges."

Nov. 16
" Tuesday Wind NE a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy with a little Hail. The men employed gather'g the forementioned Timber togather."

Nov. 17
" Wednesday Wind SE a middling stiff breeze till noon than Calmed and cleared up. The men employed four sideing Timber & Two Cutting firewood."

Nov. 18
" Thursday Wind variable Cloudy Weather with mifty rain and thawed very much that made the Ice in the Lake so very weak that we could not overhaul our Nets. The men employed felling and Sideing Timber. One and myself getting wood for a Sled. The home Indian killed 6 Partridges."

Nov. 19
" Friday Wind SE a moderate breeze very warm snowing Weather made our Lake all over glush. The men employed about various Duty."

Nov. 20
" Saturday Wind NE Cloudy warm Weather. The men employed felling and sideing Timber. The home Indian killed 7 Partridges."

Nov. 21
" Sunday Wind Northerly a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with Snow. Read Divine Service. The home Indian a hunting killed 7 Partridges."

Nov. 22
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same but more severe Cold and drifting. The men employed felling and Sideing Timber. The home Indian went acrofs the Lake a hunting and saw several Deer persewed them but had not the Luck to kill any of them."

Nov. 23
" Tuesday Wind and Weather still the same but much colder. The men employed as yesterday except one who I sent with the Indian acrofs the Lake to see if they could not kill a Deer being that the day before we saw two Herds a walking on the other side. Those I sent a hunting returned without seeing any thing."

Nov. 24
" Wednesday Wind NW a Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with Snow and Drift. The men employed four sideing Timber and Two felling Ten pieces 1/2 a mile above the House."

Nov. 25
" Thursday Wind WbN Weather much the same as yesterday. The men employed Sideing Timber Three and myself at the Sturgeon Nets middling Succefs."

Nov. 26
" Friday Wind and Weather as before mentioned. four men employed Sideing Timber and two sawing them off to the Proper Lengths. The home Indian killed four Partridges."

Nov. 27
" Saturday Wind variable Weather cloudy and Cold. The men employed four sideing Timber. Two and myself at the Sturgeon Nets returned with very small Luck. Two Rabbets and one Partridge from our home Indian."

Nov. 28
" Sunday Wind SW Weather sometimes Clear other times Cloudy. Read Divine Service. One Rabbet from our home Indian and 3 Partridges."

Nov. 29
" Monday Wind Westerly a middling breeze with small Snow. The men employed three sideing Timber and three and myself at the Sturgeon Nets middling Succefs and set down another Net of whch makes five. Seven Partridges killed to Day. The Saskachiwan River being Strong anough for a man to Crofs."

Nov. 30
" Tuesday Wind SE a moderate breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed four as before mentioned and Two Cutting a little firewood. killed 8 Partridges."

Dec. 1 1779
" Wednesday Wind southerly a moderate breeze sometimes Clear other times Cloudy. This day the men finished what quantity of Timber I thought would be sufficient for to build a new victualing Shed in the Spring. Three men at the Nets to day great Luck. 15 Partridges and one Deer."

Dec. 2
" Thursday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday. The men employed Two men sideing a net, Two Cutting firewood myself and one man turning the foreparts of dogs Sled's. One man and the Home Indian a Beaver hunting."

Dec. 3
" Friday Wind NW Weather Clear and Sharp. The men employed Shifting the Provisions. Those sent a Beaver hunting yesterday has returned with Two."

Dec. 4
" Saturday Wind Northerly a moderate breeze Clear Weather. The men employed four at the Nets middling Succefs The rest Cutting a little firewood."

Dec. 5
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday. Read Divine Service."

Dec. 6
" Monday Wind NE Cloudy snowing Weather. The men employed Three and myself at the Nets very little Succefs The rest employed about various Duty."

Dec. 7
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. The men employed Carrying some dry Wood in that was laying down amongst the Snow. Sent one man with the home Indian a Beaver hunting."

Dec. 8
" Wednesday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday but Clear and Sharper. The men employed four at the Nets very little Succefs. one and myself getting wood for Sleds."

Dec. 9
" Thursday Wind Westerly clear and Sharp. The men employed Cutting Firewood &c."

Dec. 10
" Friday Wind WbS Clear sharp Weather. The men employed about various Duty."

Dec. 11
" Saturday Wind the same as yesterday but Cloudy with a little Drifsling Snow. The men employed four at the Nets middling Succefs Six nets down of Twenty-five fathoms Each. In the Evening our Beaver hunters returned without any Luck."

Dec. 12
" Sunday Wind Northerly a middlig Stiff breeze Clear and Sharp Read Divine Service."

Dec. 13
" Monday Wind Westerly a brisk breeze Clear and very sharp. The men employed four at the Nets a very good haul and Two at odd Jobbs about the House."

Dec. 14
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same. The men employed Cutting firewood &c."

Dec. 15
" Wednesday Wind NW a very stiff gale sharp sareen Weather. The men employed Carrying large Wood from the Pile to the saw Horse to be ready for Cutting. In the Evening Two Indians arrived from below which informed me that the single Canoe that went to the northward was resideing a little of the other side of the Goose Lake which is about Sixty Miles from Thus, and right in the Track of the north River Indians as they come to this House and almost into the heart of their Country."

Dec. 16
" Thursday Wind and Weather still the same as yesterday. The men employed four Cutting of Firewood and Two hewing wood for two Shovels."

Dec. 17
" Friday Wind the same as yesterday but the Weather moderate. The men at the Nets middling Succefs but one of the nets being frose to the Ice. they could not haul it, which if Weather permits I shall have it cut out tomorrow."

Dec. 18
" Saturday Wind NE Cloudy Weather The men employed four and myself at the Nets, brought the Net home that was froze to the Ice very little damaged and overhaul'd the other five Caught 8 Sturgeon and Two small fish. The rest Cutting firewood. The Two Indians that arrived on Wednesday Last one of them is Ailing."

Dec. 19
" Sunday Wind NE Cloudy snowing Drifting Weather. Read Divine Service. 7 Partridges from the home Indian and he informed me of a great many Deers tracks which I shall send him after tomorrow."

Dec. 20
" Monday Wind and Weather still the same. The men employed four Cutting of firewood and one man with the home Indian gone in persuit of those Deer mentioned yesterday. But the wind being so Boisterous drifted up their Tracks. In the night they returned with 12 Partridges."

Dec. 21
" Tuesday Wind Easterly Cloudy Weather snowed very thick but the wind moderate. The men employed four at the Nets middling Succefs Two men a hunting 7 Partridges and Two Rabbets. Set the Net again taken up the 18th."

Dec. 22
" Wednesday Wind WbS Clear moderate Weather. The men employed four Cutting of firewood and one man and the home Indian a hunting killed 13 Partridges."

Dec. 23
" Thursday Wind NE a moderate breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed Cutting firewood and Shoveling Snow."

Dec. 24
" Friday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday. The men employed at the Nets. The home Indian a Partridge hunting killed 14."

Dec. 25
" Saturday Wind NE Cloudy with a little Snow warm Weather Read Divine Service proper for the day."

Dec. 26
" Sunday Wind NE The Weather still Cloudy and Warm. Read divine Service. The home Indian killed 6 Partridges."

Dec. 27
" Monday Wind Westerly Weather still Cloudy till the Evening and then Clear and Sharp. The men overhauling the Nets middling Succefs. 7 Partridges from the home Indian."

Dec. 28
" Tuesday Wind SW a moderate breeze Clear Sharp Weather. The men carryed wood into the House 3 Partridges to day."

Dec. 29
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a fine Clear day. The men employed cutting firewood. The home Indian killed 7 Partridges."

Dec. 30
" Thursday Wind variable moderate fine Clear Weather. The men employed doing their necefsaries within the House fitted the home Indian and those that arrived the 15th Ult. to hunt moose and Trap Martins &c."

Dec. 31
" Friday Wind NE a middling stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with a little Snow. The men employed at the Nets very little Succefs."

Jan. 1 1780
" Saturday Wind Easterly a middling Stiff breeze Clear and sharp. The men employed about their own affairs indoors. At noon Isaac Batt and one home Indian arrived with a Packet from the upper Settlement."

" Copy of a letter from Mr Will. Tomison
Hudson House December the 12th 1779
William Walker
Sir,
As there has been several reports made to me that Cumberland House was Destroyed soon after my departure from it Obliges me to inquire after you. - Isaac Batt having forgot some of his necefsaries at Cumberland House He therefore beged the favour of me to grant him the Liberty to go this Journey and to be afsisted by an Indian.

I received a Letter the 5th Instant from Mr William Holmes by one of the Canadian Traders which informed me of Cumberland House being destroyed airly in the fall by a party of half home guard Indians. This I imagine They have made up amongst themselves to frighten Us as we are about 30 miles above them. Indeed what makes me think so Mr Holmes offered me half of his own House If I would come there which offer I refused by telling him that seperate Houses would be best for both Parties and not so liable to quarreling. - Sir I hope to hear a good account from you and that the men has behaved well under your Command As to my part I never see better Servant in Hudson's Bay then what is here at present nor better behaved men. We have built a very good House of 37 feet in Length, Width 27. The walls 9 feet high with a roof of eight feet Pitch which makes the whole height from the ridge Pole to the lower floor 17 Feet and well Stockaded round near Eighty feet square.

My trade a present upwards of 2000 made Beaver including what was sent down. It consists of whole and half parchment Beaver Wolves and small Foxes. - I have no more than 9 Kegs of Brandy remaining, Guns and Kettles all gone. indeed the trade will be lost for want of these Articles. Provisions here is but scarce and by all appearances will not be plenty this year. I have no more then about one months Provisions in the House, and that has been purchased at a very dear rate. The times are so Critical here that men cannot be sent with the Natives as usual for fear they should be killed before they return for which reason I am obliged to mentain the men at the House, which will cause a great Expence for Provisions. I conclude wishing Succefs to the Company's affairs, Health and Happinefs to you and all under your Command, and remain your well wisher and
Humble Servant
William Tomison
P.S.
If you receive a packet in the fall pray send up the men's Letters. you are also to let Isaac Batt have some Duffle and place it to his Account and some Ammunition for his Journey Back.
W.T."

Jan. 2
" Sunday Wind Easterly Cloudy Weather with Drizzling Snow. Read Divine Service."

Jan. 3
" Monday Wind Easterly Cloudy snowing drifting Weather stoped the men from going to the nets They are employed cutting firewood and one man in the Tayloring Businefs."

Jan. 4
" Tuesday Wind variable sharp and Clear with a little Drift. The men at the Nets very poor Luck. fitted Isaac Batt out for his return to the upper Settlement."

" A copy of a letter sent to Mr William Tomison
Cumberland House Jan. 4th 1780
Sir,
I received your kind Letter the 1st Instant by the Bearer Isaac Batt, and one home Indian with the greatest Joy imaginable to hear of your well being and all under your Command. Those false informations. It is only as they would have it to be was it in their Power. I never will believe but they infuse a great many bad notions into the Natives minds. Altho they seem to be fair and upright before faces, I do not say that they are all that way inclined but for the most part
Sir
my men is very good men and has never disobeyed my Commands. I have had middling Succefs in the fishing way have Caught 253 Sturgeon besides other small fish since your Embarkation. By a Tempest of wind I had the miffortune lose two of my Nets at the setting in of our Lake. The U'Basquiau Capt. and some others arrived after you Embarked with Geese and green moose flesh. I gave them all the incouragent as I thought realy necefsary and they seemed to be well satiffied, but they having so many houses to go to They like to be hear and there and every where. They also did promise that they should return about the middle of the Winter if not sooner but there is no belief in what an Indian says. - If not for killing a Partridge now and then We should have had no refreshment of green flesh except one Deer which the Journal will Specify. - I have not traded 20 made Beaver since you embarked neither have I seen an Indians face since the Lake froze over Except two and they could hardly carry themselves. - The Single Canoe larger than common that was to reside at the mouth of the Sturgeon River is about as far again and down withal right in the track of the grafs River Indians. - The Peices of timber you mentioned in your former Packet I have collected as many as will be sufficient for the purpose.
Sir
I hope you will excuse me if I have not done right in not sending up men with Goods &c. You did mention that such and such Articles would be needful which I took in Consideration by what the Bearer informed that you was making all the expedition you Could for to dispatch another Packet.
I have nothing more to add but Conclude with my sincere Wishes, Succefs to the Company's Affairs Wishing you every felicity and so remain your most Obedient
& Humble Servant
William Walker."

Jan. 5
" Wednesday Wind NE a middling stiff breeze Clear sharp Weather. The men employed beating pounded meat. This day Isaac Batt proceeded on his Journey back to the upper Settlement. At noon arrived two Canadians, one Indian Women and her boy to proceed to their upper Settlement, they not having any Provisions & Their well known Sivility shown to Us on the like occasion granted me the favour to give them some little supply which the allowance Book will Specify. In the Evening arrived two and the home Indian that I fitted out the 30th Ult. with only one Beaver Skin & said they was starving for hunger."

Jan. 6
" Thursday Wind Westerly a moderate breeze Clear and sharp. The men at the Nets small Luck and one employed making a little Rabbet Hedging. The two Canadians went away to proceed to the upper Settlement."

Jan. 7
" Friday Wind variable Sharp Clear Weather. The men employed cutting firewood fitted the home Indian and one man out to go and kill Rabbets."

Jan. 8
" Saturday Wind NW fine clear Weather. The men at the Nets middling Succefs. In the Evening arrived an Indian man and his family with a few Skins."

Jan. 9
" Sunday Wind NW a middling stiff breeze Clear sharp Weather. Read Divine Service. Traded with those that arrived yesterday."

Jan. 10
" Monday Wind NW clear sharp Weather. The men employed at the Nets middling succefs and one man a hunting kill'd 3 Partridges Those that arrived on Saturday Pitched away and those that was Tenting here before."

Jan. 11
" Tuesday Wind SW a middling stiff breeze Clear Weather. The men employed Cutting firewood and one man a hunting kill'd 3 Partridges."

Jan. 12
" Wednesday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. The men employed at the fishing Nets very little Succefs and one man a hunting kill'd 3 Partridges."

Jan. 13
" Thursday Wind SW a middling Stiff breeze Clear Weather The men employed carrying in firewood to the saw Horse."

Jan. 14
" Friday Wind variable sometimes with a little Snow other times Clear. The men employed at the fishing Nets middling succefs and one man a hunting killed one Rabbet."

Jan. 15
" Saturday Wind SW Cloudy Weather and towards night Snow. The men employed Cutting firewood, one man and myself a hunting kill'd 10 Partridges."

Jan. 16
" Sunday Wind NW a stiff gale Cloudy snowing Drifting Weather Read Divine Service."

Jan. 17
" Monday Wind NW and Weather still the same but colder. The men employed Cutting of firewood."

Jan. 18
" Tuesday Wind and Weather still the same as yesterday Which stops Us to overhaul our fishing Nets. The men employed cutting of Firewood."

Jan. 19
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a middling stiff breeze Cloudy Weather The men at the fishing Nets middling Succefs."

Jan. 20
" Thursday Wind Northerly very bad Weather Snowing Drifting and Cold. The men employed doing their necefsaries indoors."

Jan. 21
" Friday Wind and Weather Just the same as yesterday. The men employed Twisting old rope yarns to make Net Lines."

Jan. 22
" Saturday Wind and Weather still the same as yesterday no going to the Nets. But in the Evening the wind and the Weather abated. The men employed cutting a little firewood."

Jan. 23
" Sunday Wind Westerly a middling stiff breeze Sometimes Cloudy other times Clear. Read Divine Service for the day."

Jan. 24
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. The men overhauling the Nets middling succefs Caught 5 Rabbets out of the Snares."

Jan. 25
" Tuesday Wind variable cloudy Weather In the Evening Snowed The men employed cutting firewood and shoveling snow. four Rabbets from the Snares."

Jan. 26
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a moderate breeze Sometimes Cloudy other times Clear. The men employed Cutting firewood and shoveling Snow. four Rabbets from the Snares and 10 Partridges Shot."

Jan. 27
" Thursday Wind variable moderate Weather Sometimes Cloudy other times Clear The men employed at the Nets middling Succefs."

Jan. 28
" Friday Wind Northerly a middling breeze Weather as before. The men employed cutting firewood and one man a hunting kill'd 3 Rabbets and 4 Partridges."

Jan. 29
" Saturday Wind variable fine moderate Weather Sometimes Clear other times Cloudy. The men employed at the fishing Nets very little Succefs."

Jan. 30
" Sunday Wind variable Cloudy Weather Read Divine Service."

Jan. 31
" Monday Wind Westerly Cloudy Weather. The men employed at the Nets very little Luck. In the Evening arrived a few U'Basquia Indians with Sled's with a few Skins and a little Provisions. I gave them a little Liquor as encouragement and they got Drunk."

Feb. 1 1780
" Tuesday Wind Northerly moderate fine weather. The men employed Cutting firewood Shoveling Snow, one man a hunting kill'd 2 Rabbets & two netmending. myself trading with those that arrived yesterday. I sent a little present to one of our Leaders as he his our former guide to York Fort. At night arrived 3 fresnchmen Starving which obliged them to come to reside at this Lake to see if they could uphold nature and to Catch a few fish. me having more than I realy thought I should be able to destroy while they was good. I make bold to give them a little Supply of the same not to hurt myself till they should endeavour as soon as pofsible to provide for themselves. If I have done amifs I hope my Superior's will excuse me. But indeed if they was to suffer it is no more then realy what some of them deserves for it is only greed that makes them undertake such proceedings to layway and Draw Indians by that they know should come here or should go to York Fort. One of the men that arrived has froze his foot very much which he will not be able to walk for some time. My reason for so doing I always think my honorable masters will never have it said but that the needful should be helped on such Occasion's that is to preserve the body and uphold nature."

Feb. 2
" Wednesday Wind Westerly Clear sharp Weather. The men employed Cutting firewood. net mending and one man a hunting kill'd 3 Partridges and one Rabbet. Those that arrived on monday went away."

Feb. 3
" Thursday Wind Westerly moderate Weather but a great deal of rime fallen. The men employed at the fishing Nets very little Succefs."

Feb. 4
" Friday Wind Westerly a moderate breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed Cutting firewood and one man a hunting kill'd one Rabbet."

Feb. 5
" Saturday Wind Easterly & thick Cloudy weather. The men employed at the fishing Nets very little from them and one man a hunting killed 2 Rabbets. At noon arrived one of the low Country Indians which informed me that the Ship was not arrived at York Fort, and in the Evening arrived a few more from another tribe with a few furrs and a little victuals."

Feb. 6
" Sunday Wind Westerly moderate Weather but Cloudy with a little Snow. In the night arrived Two Basquiau Indian's with a few Skins. Those that arrived the 1st Instant I obliged with a little Provisions until they gathered strength to undertake their Journey on return They being unfortunate on coming here for Preservation, One of the men having froze one of his feet and another in Cutting his foot with a hatchet while here. The latter was disabled so much that He could not return. However these Accidents happening made me begin to think they was done for the purpose and they apposing upon Civility but their great Appetites made me determin'd they should stay no longer. I fitted out Two of the most ablest with a little Provision's that they might set out tomorrow. One of them still here not being able to undertake the Journey, but as soon as he recovers He shall beat is march as well as the rest I am detemined they shall none of them tarry long here. But it was very certain if I had not shown a little Civility in the way of nourishment They must have Perished. I indeed gave them know encouragement to come this way for Succor."

Feb. 7
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday. The men employed about necefsary Duty. myself and one man trading with the Indians gave them a little encouragement and They seemingly well satiffied and some of them is a going away tomorrow. Likewise Two of the Canadians aforementioned on the 6th went away for their own Settlement."

Feb. 8
" Tuesday Wind Easterly Cloudy with a little Snow. The men employed at the Nets very little Succefs. myself and one man trading with the Natives, and about noon the last of them went away. I gave them all the encouragement I could."

Feb. 9
" Wednesday Wind NW a middling Stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with little Snow. The men employed Cutting firewood and doing other various Duties about the House. In the Evening arrived Two Indians with very little with them."

Feb. 10
" Thursday Wind Westerly moderate Weather. The men employed about various Duty about the House. myself traded those that arrived yester night and they seemingly well pleased."

Feb. 11
" Friday Wind SE a middling stiff breeze Cloudy Weather with a little mefsling Snow. Those that Traded yesterday went away. The men employed at the fishing Nets. middling Succefs."

Feb. 12
" Saturday Wind SE moderate fine Weather. The men employed cutting firewood and shoveling Snow. At noon arrived Mr William Tomison accompanied by six men."

Feb. 13
" Sunday Wind WNW a moderate breeze Clear Weather. At noon arrived Two Indians with a few Skins and a little Provisions. Traded and went away in the Evening."

Feb. 14
" Monday Wind variable moderate fine Weather. The men employed at the Nets. myself and William Walker taking a survey of the trading Goods &c and found every thing to answer the Accounts received from William Walker. Also packed up a few Articles of trading Goods for Hudson's House."

Feb. 15
" Tuesday Wind from South to SW moderate Clear Weather. At noon Thawed very much. The men employed about various Duty. Two Rabbets to day fitted the men out for their Journey up to Hudson's House."

Feb. 16
" Wednesday Wind Southerly hot Thawing fine Clear Weather. The men employed at the Nets middling Succefs and one man a hunting killed 12 Partridges. The Six men returned with 260 made Beaver in Trading Goods for Hudson house."

" A copy of a letter sent to Robt. Longmoor
Cumberland House Feb. the 15th 1780
Robert Longmoor
Sir
After a Journey of fourteen days I arrived safe at Cumberland House, Where I found all well thank God for it.
I have sent by the Bearers the following articles of Trading Goods Viz. Brandy Gallons 37 1/2, Guns of 4 Foot Two, 3 1/2 Foot two, Hatchets middling 10, Small 14, Kettles of 2 gallons No. 1 Weight 4 1/2 lbs, of 1 1/2 Ditto. 1 Weight 3 1/2 lb, Shot low India 28 lb, Knives Large Roach 24, and Kegs of 2 Gallons Two; The Goods now sent with what I left at Hudson House amount 2266 made Beaver Which Goods you are to be very careful of the expenditure thereof, the Brandy Especially, you will do well to preserve a little to procure Birchrind; Also against the Canoe Building as I am fully persuaded that is the only article that will forward any thing of that kind. - I expect by your vigilance and the Afsistance of Magnus Twat that you will get Two or three Canoes built at the House. If you should have more Furrs then you can conveniently carry down you will therefore do well to send off what spare men you may have as soon as the River is Open with furrs and Provisions resting the same about half way down, only one Canoe which is to come here to inform me thereof. The rest returning to you as Expeditious as pofsible. I have sent three Net Lines for the above purpose; You are to guard against the insults of the Canadians, as they are more to be dreaded than the Natives. Mr Holmes told Isaac Batt on his Journey to this Place that if he had any regard for himself he would keep in the plains for if the Natives should fall on them as they did last year They should not a man of Us go past them alive. you may tell him from me that He must be a man of greater property and better principals before he can talk in that daring insulting manner against the Hudson's Bay Company's Servants, When they are not meddling with Him You may also tell him he need not think to frighten Us with his daring Language for Scotchmen can kill as well as Irishmen can. I conclude wishing Succefs to the Company's Affairs health and Happinefs to you and all under your Command.
& remain your most
Humble Servant
Wiliiam Tomison
P.S. Please to inform Isaac Batt it is greatly against my orders he should have any Correspondance with the Canadians upon any Account Whatever."

Feb. 17
" Thursday Wind Northerly In the morning Snow But at Noon cleared and was fine Weather. The men employed about various Duty."

Feb. 18
" Friday Wind Easterly a stiff gale drifting Weather. The men employed Cutting firewood and one man at some Rabbet snares killed one."

Feb. 19
" Saturday Wind variable part Cloudy with Snow and part Clear. The men employed at the Nets middling Succefs."

Feb. 20
" Sunday Wind SW moderate fine Clear Weather. Read Divine Service."

Feb. 21
" Monday Wind Easterly in the morning Drifting But at noon Clear and moderate. The men employed at the fishing Nets middling Succefs & one man netmaking."

Feb. 22
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday but rather more Drift. The men employed Cutting firewood and one man a hunting kill'd one Rabbet and Two Partridges."

Feb. 23
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as before. The men employed cutting firewood and doing other necefsary Duty within Door's."

Feb. 24
" Thursday Little wind variable with Clear warm Weather, and Thawed pretty much towards noon. The men employed as yesterday; fitted out William Walker James Banks and James Leask to go and Tent besides the Cannadians that is residing a little way on this side the Cranberry carrying place in the North River Track, to Intercept the Indians from Trading with them, as They are prevented from Coming to this Place, as also from every where Else."

Feb. 25
" Friday Wind variable from W to SE Weather for the most part Cloudy with a little Snow at times. William Walker proceeded on his Journey Afsisted by James Banks, James Leask, and Magnus Sclater. The Latter who is to return When they get the place appointed. The cannadian also went away that has been here since the begining of this month. Sent three men to the Nets set one that was lately repaired and brought home 6 Sturgeon from the others."

Fen. 26
" Saturday Wind SW a fresh breeze Weather Clear and Thawed much. The men Cutting firewood."

Feb. 27
" Sunday Wind South a Small Breeze Weather as Yesterday. Thawed so much to day that the Water is Standing in ponds in the yard."

Feb. 28
" Monday Wind Westerly a stiff gale Weather Clear with a continual Thaw. Sent the men to the Nets four Sturgeon to Day."

Feb. 29
" Tuesday little Wind Northerly Weather Clear but not so warm as it has been for some days past. The people employed Cutting firewood; At noon Wm Walker and the men sent with him return'd without being able to perform their Journey by reason of the River and great part of the Lake having broken up with the late warm Weather."

Mar. 1 1780
" Wednesday Wind variable Weather for the most part Cloudy with a little Rain at times; The men employed making lines for Nets & repairing a small one."

Mar. 2
" Thursday Wind variable from NW to the SE light breezes with warm Thawing Weather. The men employed cutting firewood and attending the Nets four Sturgeon to day. also brought home two Nets one to be repaired but the other I have Condemned it being wore out."

Mar. 3
" Friday Wind South a small breeze Weather part Cloudy part Clear with a Continual Thaw. The People employed one man repairing a net the rest Carrying Snow out of the yard."

Mar. 4
" Saturday Wind WSW a Stiff breeze Weather as yesterday till the Evening afterwards blowed a strong gale from the NW with Snow the people employed three men Carrying Snow out of the yard. Sent the rest to the Nets, set one and brought another home to be repaired, Two Sturgeon to day They inform me They could Scarcely Overhale the Nets for Water that overflowed out of the holes."

Mar. 5
" Sunday Wind Northerly a Stiff gale Weather Cloudy with Snow and Drift. Read Divine Service for the Day."

Mar. 6
" Monday Wind variable in the North quarter with Clear and Sharp Weather. The men employed Two Cutting firewood Three Carrying Snow out of the yard and one repairing a Net."

Mar. 7
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a small breeze Weather as yesterday. The People employed one man a hunting killed 12 Partridges Sent the rest to the Nets, four Sturgeon and three small Fish to day."

Mar. 8
" Wednesday Wind SE a Stiff breeze Weather Clear till the Evening afterwards Cloudy with snow. The men employed Cutting firewood; In the Evening three Indians arrived from the U Basquea Leader for a Supply of Ammunition and Tobacco."

Mar. 9
" Thursday Wind Easterly a fresh gale Weather Cloudy. The People employed, Two men a hunting. The rest Cutt firewood and did other odd Jobbs within doors. Twelve Partridges to day. Traded with the Indians that arrived yesterday and sent a present by them to the Leader and his Brother, also to some others that are Tenting with them."

Mar. 10
" Friday Wind as yesterday Weather Cloudy with a Drizzling Snow most part of the day. One man netmaking. The rest making Lines for Ditto. The Indians returned to their Tent."

Mar. 11
" Saturday Wind NW a fresh breeze with thick rimey Weather. The men employed as yesterday."

Mar. 12
" Sunday Wind Easterly a fresh gale wirh Cloudy DriftingWeather. In the Evening Two Indians arrived from the Northward with a few Furrs and a little Provisions."

Mar. 13
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday The men employed as on Saturday. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday and gave them some encouragement, as they have come a long way. In the Evening two families arrived from below with Provisions and a trifle of Furrs part of which they Traded and got Drunk."

Mar. 14
" Tuesday Wind SE a small Breeze with Cloudy warm Weather. One man employed within doors, Sent the rest to the Nets verry little Succefs. Traded with the Natives that arrived yesterday and gave them all the encouragement I realy thought necefsary to return with Canoes to Afsist in Carrying down Furrs to York Fort."

Mar. 15
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday Weather part Cloduy part Clear and Thawed a little at Noon. Sent three men away with the Indians that arrived the 13th Instant to bring moose flesh that they left at their Tent. The rest Cutt firewood and did other domestic Duty. Those that came here the 12th also went away."

Mar. 16
" Thursday Wind variable Weather as yesterday. At noon the men returned that went for meat yesterday brought 200 lb moose flesh, the other men employed cutting firewood; Traded with two Indians that arrived in the Night from the Sturgeon River above. They went off again in the Evening. They have brought 40 made Beaver in beaver and martens. I have sent by them a present of Brandy and Tobacco to a Leader that is Tenting with them as encouragement to build a Canoe."

Mar. 17
" Friday Wind NW a stiff gale with drift in the forenoon, Afterwards Clear calm Weather. The People employed, Three men Cutting firewood. Sent the rest to the Nets, At Noon returned with three Sturgeon."

Mar. 18
" Saturday Wind Southerly a stiff gale with Clear warm Weather. The men employed Carrying some Timber pieces out to the Bank side to be hauled home on small Sleds."

Mar. 19
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh breeze Weather Clear and Thawed a little at Noon."

Mar. 20
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. The people employed hauling home some Timber pieces and felling a few more. In the Evening Two Indians arrived from above They have brought 15 made Beaver in Beaver and martens 13 of which they have Traded for Brandy."

Mar. 21
" Tuesday little wind variable with Clear sharp Weather. Three men cutting firewood. Sent the rest to the Nets very little Succefs."

Mar. 22
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. The men employed hewing Timber pieces. In the Evening Two Indians arrived from the U Basquea Leader with a trifle of Furrs to Trade."

Mar. 23
" Thursday little wind Northerly weather Clear with a sharp Air; Sent William Walker and Two men to the Nets but returned without Succefs. The rest Cutt firewood. The Two Indians went away that came yesterday."

Mar. 24
" Friday Wind SW a fresh breeze Weather as yesterday. The men employed as on Wednesday."

Mar. 25
" Saturday Wind variable from South to NW first part Cloudy with Snow latter part clear sharp Weather. The men employed cutting firewood and doing other necefsary Duty."

Mar. 26
" Sunday Wind NW a Stiff breeze with Clear sharp Weather. Read Divine Service proper for the day."

Mar. 27
" Monday Wind variable from SW to W a fresh gale with cold freezing Weather; The people employed at the Nets and doing other necefsary Duty. four Sturgeon to day."

Mar. 28
" Tuesday Wind Westerly Weather as yesterday. The men employed hauling home some Timber pieces."

Mar. 29
" Wednesday Wind variable in the North quarter Weather part Cloudy part Clear with a fresh gale toward Evening. The men employed about various Duty. In the Evening Two Indians arrived from the Sturgeon River above with a few Furrs to Trade."

Mar. 30
" Thursday Wind Westerly a small breeze with Clear sharp Weather. The men employed at the Nets, and Cutting firewood. Traded with the Indians and they went away. Two Sturgeon to day."

Mar. 31
" Friday Wind SE a fresh gale with clear warm Weather. Two men felling wood for building a Shade to put Canoes in to keep them from the Weather. The rest hewing Timber pieces."

Apr. 1 1780
" Saturday Wind as yesterday with Cloudy Weather. Three men Cutt firewood. The rest employed as yesterday. in the Evening Two Indians arrived from the Westward with a few Furrs to Trade. Also brought 40 lb green Deers Flesh."

Apr. 2
" Sunday Wind as before with Cloudy thawing Weather. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday and made them a present as Usual. Also sent by them to others some Brandy & Tobacco to induce them to come here when the Lakes are open with Canoes. in the Evening four Indians arrived from the Sturgeon River above with Furrs to Trade."

Apr. 3
" Monday Wind Easterly Weather as yesterday. The men employed about various Duty. Traded with the Indians, and they went away, as also those that arrived the first Instant. Three Sturgeon from the Nets."

Apr. 4
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. The men employed hauling in Timber Pieces."

Apr. 5
" Wednesday little Wind in the SE quarter Weather Clear, and Thawed much. The men employed as yesterday. Two Indians arrived from below with a trifle of Furrs to Trade Ammunition."

Apr. 6
" Thursday Wind and Weather as yesterday. Sent three men to the Nets, brought one home, which is worn out. The rest employed about various Duty. Two Sturgeon and one Nemacous from the Nets. The Indians went away that came yesterday."

Apr. 7
" Friday little wind variable with Clear pleasant Weather. One man net making The rest employed about odd Jobbs."

Apr. 8
" Saturday Wind SE a fresh gale Weather part Cloudy part Clear and Thawed much. Sent three men to the Nets very little Succefs. The rest employed within Doors."

Apr. 9
" Sunday Wind Easterly a strong gale Weather for the most part Cloudy with a Continual Thaw."

Apr. 10
" Monday Wind SE Weather as yesterday with Snow till noon Afterwards variable with rain at times. The men employed within doors Swans seen to Day."

Apr. 11
" Tuesday Wind SW a Stiff breeze with Clear Weather The men employed, one man net making Sent the rest to geather Pitch Several Swans seen to day, and much Water on the Lake."

Apr. 12
" Wednesday Wind NNW a small breeze with Clear Weather. The People employed. One man Net making Two men getting Pitch. Sent the rest to the Nets. Seven Sturgeon to day a Goose seen."

Apr. 13
" Thursday Wind Easterly a fresh gale Weather as yesterday. Sent four men to gather Pitch. The rest employed about necefsary Duty within doors."

Apr. 14
" Friday Wind and Weather as yesterday till the Evening afterwards Calm. At noon the men returned that I sent for Pitch yesterday. They over hauled? the Nets and brought seven Sturgeon. One man making a Net one man doing odd Jobbs about the House."

Apr. 15
" Saturday Calm Clear pleasant Weather. The men employed gathering Pitch and net making a great many swan's and Geese seen to Day. Also several Ducks. The river broke up in places."

Apr. 16
" Sunday Wind variable light breezes with Clear warm Weather. Saskachewan River breaking up."

Apr. 17
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday. The People employed one man net making Two men a hunting Sent the men to Take up the nets five Sturgeon to day, also 5 Ducks from the Hunters."

Apr. 18
" Tuesday wind variable from NW to East Weather Clear and blow'd a stiff gale towards Evening. One man net making Two men a hunting but returned without Succefs. The rest clearing away the Rubbish from within the Works. Ice still driving in the River Saskachewan, and a rise of Water in the Lake."

Apr. 19
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a fresh breeze Weather Cloudy with Rain most part of the day. The men employed about necefsary Jobbs within Doors. The Water still continues rising in the Lake."

Apr. 20
" Thursday Little wind variable in the North quarter Weather part Cloudy part Clear. The people employed Two men repairing nets. Three men empting the Water out of the Scellar. Sent the rest a hunting but returned without Succefs by reason of the marshes being all overflowed by the Deluge."

Apr. 21
" Friday Wind southerly a small Breeze Weather as yesterday. One man a net making Three men employed about various Duty. myself with the rest fitting up an old Canoe for hunting with; The River full of Ice and Stopt."

Apr. 22
" Saturday Wind ESE a stiff gale with Clear Weather. four men a hunting The rest employed about the House. Two Geese and Two Ducks from the hunters. The Deluge is not been so high for some years, as it is at present."

Apr. 23
" Sunday Wind in the East quarter a fresh gale with Cold raw Cloudy Weather."

Apr. 24
" Monday Little wind Northerly with a thick Fogg till noon afterwards Clear and Calm. The men employed making a net and doing other trifling Duty without and within Doors; a very heavy rain last night attended with Thunder & Lightning. The river Ice mostly gone and the Water fallen greatly."

Apr. 25
" Tuesday Wind variable light breezes with very warm Weather. Sent two men with a Canoe to hunt Geese in the River. One man a net making. The rest employed digging part of the Garden ground fitted up another Canoe for hunting with the Ice on the lake greatly broken in places."

Apr. 26
" Wednesday Wind SE a stiff breeze Weather part Cloudy part Clear. Sent two men away to the River in a Canoe to hunt Geese. One man a net making The other two with myself at work in the Garden."

Apr. 27
" Thursday Wind & Weather much the same as yesterday. The men employed about various duty. in the Evening James Banks and James Lisk returned from hunting brought fourteen Geese and 3 Ducks. They inform me that they see a good many Geese, but could not get nigh enough to shoot them sitting. The Deluge having Shifted the best Places for that purpose."

Apr. 28
" Friday Wind and Weather the same till noon afterwards blowed a strong gale. One man a net making the other two employed in the Garden; gave the hunters Ammunition and sent them off again. The Lake broke up along shore."

Apr. 29
" Saturday Wind variable in the East quarter. Thick Cloudy Weather with rain all Day. At noon William Walker and James Spence return'd from hunting brought fourteen Geese & eight Ducks. The Ice about a mile distance off shore."

Apr. 30
" Sunday Little wind Northerly with Thick foggy Weather. In the Evening James Banks and James Lisk Came from hunting Brought eight Geese & four Ducks."

May 1 1780
" Monday Wind variable from NW to East a small Breeze with clear fine Weather. Sent four men a hunting The rest employed about trifling duty. without and within doors."

May 2
" Tuesday Wind SE a Stiff breeze with Clear Weather. One man lining a net. The other two with myself shifting the Provisions Mifketoes very troublesome."

May 3
" Wednesday Wind variable light Breezes with very warm Weather. One man lining Nets The other two employed about necefsary duty. In the Evening four men sent a hunting the first Instant return'd brought fifty Geese and 3 Ducks, also an Indian with his family arrived from the Sturgeon River above. He paid his Debt Traded a little Liquor and got Drunk."

May 4
" Thursday Wind SW a small Breeze till noon afterwards Cloudy Calm Weather. Magnus Sclator still lining Nets; The rest employed building a temporary place for Canoes to shed them from the sun. At noon one Indian man with his family arrived from the Westward of the Lake, brought 50 made Beaver in furrs, and some dried Provisions, part of which They traded and got Drunk."

May 5
" Friday Wind NW a fresh breeze Weather part Cloudy part Clear. The men employed as yesterday. The Lake Ice all drove from the northward upon this Shore."

May 6
" Saturday Wind SW a stiff breeze at times Weather as yesterday. The men employed about various Duty."

May 7
" Sunday Wind Northerly light Breeze with very warm Weather. Read Divine Service. The Ice drove a good way off Shore."

May 8
" Monday Wind NW a small Breeze Weather as yesterday. The men employed at the prefs packt 24 Bundles of Furrs."

May 9
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a stiff breeze with Clear Weather. The men employed as yesterday. Packed 16 Bundles of Furrs. At noon four young Indians arrived from those that have build Canoes at the Sturgeon River above; They have come for Tobacco, Powder, Vermilion &c which I gave them, and they went off again immediately. a few Geese and some Beaver flesh from Indians."

May 10
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday Sent James Banks and James Lisk to hunt Geese. The rest employed about necefsary Duty within doors. At noon The Indians arrived mentioned yesterday 24 Canoes in Number, besides four large ones for trade according to promise last Autumn. Several of those now arrived has brought nothing at all. They having come lately from the Canadian Settlement, the others paid their Debts, Traded some Liquor, and got Drunk."

May 11
" Thursday Wind SE a Small Breeze Weather Cloudy with Rain at times. The men employed as yesterday except William Walker and James Spence whom I have Sent in Search of an Indian Woman which went off in the night with a Beaver Coat I had lent her; At noon two Canoes arrived from the U'Basquea Leader with what furrs he, and the others had Collected amongst them. This he has done according to promise for fear the Canadians should forse him to Trade with them, or take the furrs from him by forse, and pay him as they pleased; I find by those that arrived yesterday, your honor's have lost two Beaver Coats, which I sent to an Indian man and his Wife in the Winter marked with your Honour's mark, and at the same time informing the Canadian Traders thereof not to trade the said Coats, as they belonged to your Honor's, This I think is not consiftant with the English Law's, as I can deem it nothing but plain Robbery. It has been an old Custom with whomsoever have been factors for your Honours to lend Coats to natives when distrefsed with Cold. This is the Second time those Villian's have served your Honours in this manner."

May 12
" Friday Wind variable from SE to West a Stiff breeze weather Cloudy with a little Rain at times; At noon James Banks and James Lisk return'd from hunting very little Succefs no Geese flying in the Evening William Walker & James Spence Arrived brought 20 Tickameg from the fishing wire, also the Beaver Coat from the Indian, he informs me that Holmes with a number of his men is staying there killing fish, and Pangman with the rest is down at U'Basquea. The Indians still trading a few Skins for Brandy. The Two Canoes that arrived yesterday went away. I have sent by them for the U'Basquea Leader, Brandy two Gallons, some Ammunition, and Two lb Tobacco."

May 13
" Saturday Wind Westerly weather Clear with a Stiff gale till the Evening afterward Calm. The men employed at the prefs packt Eleven Bundles of Furrs; In the evening Wappeenawsew formerly a Leader at York Fort arrived accompanied by Seven Canoes five of which have brought little or nothing. the other three middling well gooded. I find by these that the low country Indian, who went from here the 10th of January Last has been murder'd, but cannot out which of the two he went away with has done the Deed."

May 14
" Sunday Wind SE a fresh gale with warm Cloudy weather. The Indians that came yesterday Still trading a few Skins for Liquor. a little green moose Flesh from Indians."

May 15
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday with a little Rain. In the Evening gave several of the Indians Ammunition and sent them off to hunt for their families, as we depend greatly on their afsisting in Carrying Down Furrs to York Fort. At seven oClock in the Evening one Canoe arrived for Tobacco. These have accompanied Mr Longmoor from above I gave them Tobacco, and Powder to Salute the House and they went off again."

May 16
" Tuesday Wind variable in the South quarter a small Breeze weather Cloudy with rain at times. At six oClock in the forenoon our People arrived from Hudson House accompanied by fourteen Canoes of Indians these have brought furrs to Trade; the total amount of Furrs Received from Hudson House 6160 made Beaver and 900 lb of Pimmeecon in return for 4410 1/3 Beaver in trading Goods. Mr Longmoor has built one large Canoe and one middling Size, also eight more built by Indians which I have traded here. there is plenty of Canoes but no men to man them. The Indians trading Liquor and several of them very Drunk."

May 17
" Wednesday Wind WSW a fresh gale with Clear Weather. The men employed drying the Wet Furrs and doing odd Jobbs within Doors. myself buisy trading with the Indians, and several of them went away. Received from an Indian man five Geese and one Small Beaver."

May 18
" Thursday Wind variable Light Breezes with very warm Weather; The men employed at the Prefs Packed 30 Bundles of Furrs. Several of the Indians went away that Accompanied our People Down Safkachiwan River. Sent three men away to hunt Geese and kill Fish."

May 19
" Friday Wind Easterly a strong Gale with rainey Weather no working without Doors; The Taylor making Cloathing for the men. The employed about odd Jobbs indoors. It blow'd so hard in the forenoon that Several of the Indians had there Canoes broke on the Plantation."

May. 20
" Saturday Wind ENE a stiff gale weather part Cloudy part Clear. The People employed, Carpenter making Wedges, and Mallets for the Prefs. Nicholas Wishart and Malchom Rofs making Cloathing for the men. The rest employed at the Prefs packed 40 Bundles of Furrs."

May. 21
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday. Packed 40 Bundles of Furrs; In the Evening the fishermen return'd, brought 80 Tickameg, and four Pike. They inform me there is no Geese to be got, also that the Fish is not very plentiful."

May 22
" Monday Wind South a strong Gale with Clear Weather. Sent the Fishermen away again, one man out of order. The rest employed at the Prefs, Packed 54 Bundles of Furrs."

May 23
" Tuesday Wind as yesterday light breezes with very warm Weather. The men employed at the Prefs Packed 17 Bundles of Furrs. In the Evening our fishermen returned brought 200 Tickameg which made two Days for all Hands; The Canadian Canoe that has Wintered in the North river Track arrived here with 14 Packs of Furrs, which Goods I have Stopped here until Satiffaction is made; For the Beaver Coats that has been carried off by Holmes and Pangman with your Honours mark on them. The U'Basquia Captain also arrived accompanied by five Canoes of the said Tribe, but have brought little or nothing with them; Their furrs having been sent here before He has brought one middle Sized Canoe for Trade."

May 24
" Wednesday Wind variable from SW to NW a Stiff breeze with a little rain at times. Sent three men down to the Wire for Fish. The rest employed about various Duty. Except Magnus Twat who is still ailing. The Canadian Trader beged very hard to let him have his Packs again, but I still persift in my intergrity of detaining them still Satiffaction is made for the aforemention'd Beaver Coats for which reason He dispacthed his Canoe with five men after Holmes, and Pangman. Received two moose from Indian Hunters, also three small Beaver. paid Indians t carry furrs Down to York Fort."

May 25
" Thursday Wind NW a strong gale Weather Cloudy with flying Showers; paid some Indians to Carry down furrs, but not weather for them to Proceed. The men employed about odd Jobbs wuthin Doors. Magnus Twat as before."

May 26
" Friday Wind Wind Northerly with a Stiff breeze till noon afterwards calm Weather. At six this morning eight Canoes arrived from Warr tolerable well gooded but none of them will consent to carry their Furrs down to York Fort, by reason of their families being left far off. they say that they have been Six weeks on their Pafsage here. The Furrs they have brought Consists Cheifly of Beaver and Martins. Part of which they traded, and got Drunk."

May 27
" Saturday Wind SE a Small Breeze Weather Cloudy with a little Rain at times. The men employed attending the Gates, and doing other necefsary Duty within Doors. At noon our fishermen arrived for Good no fish to be caught by reason of a great rise of Water which has broken down the Wire. Mr Small rather then go down without his Packs, He agreed to give three Coats in return for those that has been Carried off by Holmes & Pangman, after which I delivered him his Packs, and He embarked; Traded with some of the Indians that came Yesterday."

May 28
" Sunday Wind Northerly a Strong gale with Cloudy rainey weather. Traded with some of the Indians that arrived on Friday last The badnefs of the Weather prevents me from sending Indians off with furrs for York Fort."

May 29
" Monday Wind variable weather as yesterday till noon afterwards moderate; The men employed about necefsarys within Doors. In the Evening fitted out five men for their Journey down to York Fort."

May 30
" Tuesday Wind variable with Clear moderate Weather. Sent off 13 Canoes of English and Indians with 63 Bundles of Furrs Under the Care of Mr Longmoor and four men Viz. James Spence Sen. James Wafs Edward Wishart and Henry Burney. The Carpenter Repairing the Gates. Charles Isham lame of a sore hand. The rest employed about various Duty. finish'd Trading with the Indians that arrived on Friday last, and gave them all the encouragement I could to come again another year."

" A copy of a letter sent to Mr Humph'y Marten
Cumberland House May 29th 1780
Kind Sir,
After a long and tedious Journey of 45 Days we arrived at Cumberland House, with all the Goods safe, and in good Condition, a little Brandy Tobacco and Ammunition Excepted, which was Expended on the Road in purchasing Provisions and gave to Indians as incouragement to behave well; Several of those that came up the middle Track arrived before us, but four Canoes having lost their way did not arrive till Ten days after, which time we was detained from going up the River Saskachiwan till their Arrival; The Goods was in as good Condition as could be expected Considering the Weather that had been lately.

The flesh Indian Mifsnee-kisoch and some others, who Mr Longmoor through his great persuadings built eight Canoes for Trade. also small Canoes for themselves to afsist him down with furrs from Hudon House. The Trade of both places amount to upwards of 9000 made Beaver a great part of which will not be got Down this year for want of Men to man the Canoes. and what Indians do Consent to go down, I am under the greatest obligations immaginable by being obliged to give them what they ask for, if any thing is denied them, They tell us they will not go down, and those that are more villianous then the rest make no Scruple to offer to Shoot me through the Stockades. This I would have the Company Consider as a mark of their Honours neglect of not sending men to do the Businefs without being so much obliged to these Indians. - I am concious to myself that I do my indeavours, as also every man here, as far as our Judgement leads us. To use the natives well and to keep them to that regular subjection that they have been under at your Honour's lower Settlements but I find it is impofsible so to do, They being so much corrupted by the Canadians that trade in these parts. Sir in this party 13 Canoes English, and Indians by whom I have sent 63 Bundles of Furrs under the Care of four Englishmen Viz. Mr Robert Longmoor, Edward Wishard, James Wafs, Henery Burney and James Spence Senior. They are to proceed down the middle Track. I have also sent, inclosed the account of Furrs now sent, as also the Indent of Trading Goods, which you will please to lefsen or enlarge according to the Conveyance.

The Canadian Canoe that has wintered in the North river Track arrived here a few days ago with fourteen Packs of Furrs, which Goods I stopped untill Satiffaction where made me for three Beaver Coats, that Holmes and Pangman has carried off belonging to their Honour's, which I had lent to Indians in the Winter and at the time informing them not to trade the said Coats as they was marked with the Company's Mark. They stayd here three days, and beged hard to let them have their furrs, but I would not untill Satiffaction was made. He afterwards paid me the full value which was 18 Skins. I delivered them their furrs, and they embarked May the 27th. I conclude wishing Succefs to the Company's Affairs. Health and Happinefs to you and all under your Command. So I remain
Your Most Obedient &
Humble Servant

P.S.
Mr Longmoor will inform you of the behaviour of these Indians. My best Compliments to the Gentlemen of your Mefs. All the Indians now sent are paid 3 Beaver for each Bundle according to their agreement.
W.T."

May 31
" Wednesday Little wind Southerly with Clear warm Weather; Charles Isham, still lame of his hand. Magnus Twatt, Cleaning the Small armes, The rest employed at the Prefs, packed 21 Bundles of Furrs. The Indians that arrived on the 26th Instant went away also several others. I sent off four Canoes with 16 Bundles for York Fort. These propose to Hunt in the Cedar Lake, as they have got no Provisions, and wait for us. In the Evening one of the Indian Canoes that went away yesterday return'd Under a Sham Complaint of being Sick. This Rogue has Deceived me once before, for which reason I have taken his Canoe from him untill he makes Satiffaction, or Consent to go Down, as I find there is othing the matter with him but Leasinefs."

June 1 1780
" Thursday Wind SW a fresh gale with Clear Weather.Sent off the U'Basquia Leader and eight Canoes more by these I have sent 39 Bundles of Furrs Yort? under the Care of Robert Davey and Isaac Batt; These are going to hunt on the Road as they have no Provisions to carry them Down and I am not able to Supply them. The men employed about various Duty. Wardden and Primo pafsed by with ten Canoes on their Journey down to the great Carrying place. They inform me that they have made upwards of 200 french Packs which is more then ever they have Carried out from that part before. He also informs me that he has traded with all the Northward Indians that used to hunt at Prince Wale's Fort. and that they are going to hunt there abouts until their Arrival the next fall."

June 2
" Friday little wind Easterly with Clear Sultry Weather. At noon two Canoes arrived from the Northward with furrs to trade. also two more which is to Afsist in Carrying down Furrs. these inform me that Several more will be here to morrow from that Quarter. Charles Isham much the Same."

June 3
" Saturday Wind variable Weather as yesterday. The men employed putting Canoes to rights and getting ready for going down. traded with the Indians that Came yesterday and made them a present as they was tolerable well gooded; In the Evening Received a little green moose flesh from an Indian."

June 4
" Sunday Wind NW a Strong gale with Cloudy Weather. The Indians that was to arriv'd yesterday is Weather bound about four miles from here; At noon two of them Crofsed the narrow were we set Nets in the Winter and Came here by foot for Tobacco, and Powder to Salute the House on their Arrival, which they got and went off again."

June 5
" Monday Wind variable from North to SW Weather Clear with a fresh Breeze at times. The men employed about various Duty packed four Bundles of Furrs. The Indians mentioned yesterday arrived, 12 Canoes in Number, also one middling Size for trade. These have brought but few furrs for the number of Canoes. in the Evening one Canoe arrived with some moose flesh which they Traded for Liquor and got Drunk with the others."

" A copy of a letter sent sent to Mr Humph'y Martin
Cumberland House June 7th 1780
Kind sir,
By the 7 Canoes in this Party I have sent 29 Bundles of Furrs under the Care of Escon, and the Half Day Indian. These being known to be trusty Persons. I have not sent an Englishman with them, as the Road is not fit for our Canoes, it being should Water, and the Carrying places very long. Since my last I have sent off 13 Canoes with furrs under the Care of two Englishmen and the U Basquia Leader; These are going down the South Track, and his to hunt on the Road, as they have got no Provisions, and wait for Us at the great fall; These Indians, as Also those sent before have received their full payment, which is three Beaver in Trading Goods for each Bundle, besides Ammunition and Tobacco for Nothing. - Sir you may think this very imprudent of my conduct in so doing; I do afure you there is no Indians that will go Down without being paid their full payment here before they go. Indeed I cannot say but there is one very great reason for it. There is no Indians that goes Down, but leaves part of their families behind, which they are obliged to provide for in their Absence.

Sir I propose to leave the following Persons at Cumberland House when I may embark for York Fort Viz. William Walker in Charge, William Gray, William Lewtit, William Copeland, and James Sanderson. As to furrs I cannot give you a just account of what may be left untill I embark, but without doubt there will be a considerable Quantity left as the Indians do not Chuse to go Down. I have offered several of them Tobacco and Ammuntion to Carry their own furrs down to York Fort which they refused telling me if I did not Chuse to trade with them, they would carry theur Furrs back, and Trade with the Canadians. I conclude wishing the Company would send more men to Carry their Furrs; without being so much obliged to these Indians.
& so I remain Dear Sir
Your most Obedient
& Humble Servant
William Tomison."

June 6
" Tuesday Wind variable with Clear moderate Weather. Sent off eight Canoes for York Fort with Furrs. These are going down the North River track. finished trading with the Indians that arrived yesterday and Several of them went away. Charles Isham something better."

June 7
" Wednesday Wind South a small Breeze with Clear Sultry hot Weather. Sent of 11 Canoes with Furrs to York Fort Under the Care of Six Englishmen Viz. Charles Isham, Mitchel Oman, William Oman, James Banks, Nicholas Wishart and Magnus Sclater. I myself proposing to go tomorrow with the rest please God health permits. Took a survey of the trading Goods &c and put William Walker in Chrage. The Indians that arrived on the 5th Instant went away."

" 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/9


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