" A Journal of the most remarkable Transactions and Occurrences at Cumberland House from 8th June 1780 to 7th June 1781 - Also Correspondence by Mr William Tomison Mafter"
[cover]

" Journal By Mr William Tomison containing Transactions Occurrences &c from June the 8th 1780 to June 1781"
[title page]


" By William Walker"

---

June 8 1780
" Thursday Wind variable hot sultry weather with gufs? of wind. at noon M Tomison and four embarked accompanied by one Indian Canoe. one tent of Indians still on the Plantation."

June 9
" Friday Wind Easterly with small Showers of rain. The Men employed stowing away the old Canoes that was left and cutting a little firewood. at noon one Canoe arrived brought a little Moose flesh which Traded."

June 10
" Saturday Wind NE a middling stiff Breeze Weather as before. the Men about necefsary Jobbs about the House."

June 11
" Sunday Wind Northerly a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather. at noon arrived 8 Canoes from the Athopuscow Country with a few furs to trade. Traded a little Liquor with them according to my stock. it being so small in quantity. I am obliged to be saving that in case any Strangers should come that I can oblige them with a little. For it is the only Article they look upon. the Canoe that arrived the 9th Instant went away."

June 12
" Monday Wind Easterly a middling stiff Breeze part Cloudy & part clear. Myself and one man trading with those that arrived Yesterday, the rest mending the House. gave them what encouragement I could & they seemingly well pleased. They have promised to come here the next Spring. In the Evening one canoe arrived brought a few furs. He asked me for a little Liquor but I refused being that I had denied trading any more with the aforesaid people, but after they embarked I dont refuse letting him have a little to carry away with him. My stock is but small makes me allowance them so closely."

June 13
" Tuesday Wind SE a moderate Breeze Clear hot Sultry weather. The Athopuscow Indians & the single Canoe that arrived yesterday evening went away. The Men employed tying up Furs. at noon one Canadian Canoe arrived for three bags of Indian Corn that they had laid up here. They asked me to Trade with them, but that I refused. In the Night one Canoe of Indians arrived with a little Moose flesh which Traded."

June 14
" Wednesday Wind SW a moderate breeze clear hot sultry weather. The Men employed about sundry Duties in Doors."

June 15
" Thursday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday and the Men employed as Yesterday. Moschettos very numerous."

June 16
" Wind variable moderate weather till noon then blowed fresh at NE Cloudy with small showers of rain. The Men employed weeding the Garden."

June 17
" Saturday Wind variable a middling stiff Breeze clear Weather. the Men employed getting their Hatchets in readinefs for felling firewood. one Man & myself repairing an old Canoe for looking at the nets."

June 18
" Sunday Wind Westerly a middling stiff Breeze clear weather Read Divine Service."

June 19
" Monday Wind SE a middling stiff Breeze clear weather. The Men employed net making & setting of 3 small fishing nets. At noon arrived three Canoes but did not bring anything with them."

June 20
" Tuesday Wind & Weather the same as Yesterday. The Men employed as before. the three Canoes that arrived here Yesterday & some others that was here before went away. small succefs from our Nets."

June 21
" Wednesday Wind SE a moderate Breeze part clear part cloudy. The Men employed two making a fishing Net and two Looking at some we set the 19th Instant very little succefs from them."

June 22
" Thursday Wind variable cloudy weather and at noon rained very hard. The Men employed two making a net & two at the fishing nets very little from them."

June 23
" Friday Wind WBN with a hard gale cloudy weather with rain at times. The Men employed two net making & two working in the Garden."

June 24
" Saturday Wind variable from West to NE with Boisterous weather. The Men employed two sideing the foresaid small fishing & two Men at the fishing nets, very little from them the water in the Lake raising very fast."

June 25
" Sunday Wind variable a middling stiff Breeze the forepart of the Day but at noon calmed & very hot & sultry clear weather. two Men looking at the nets Very little from them. took up one being much damaged by the late Winds."

June 26
" Monday Wind SE a moderate Breeze Cloudy hot sultry weather. The Men employed two setting two small fishing nets taking two up to mend & refresh the twine & two emptying the Water out of the cellar."

June 27
" Tuesday Wind much the same but calm & towards evening Cloudy. two Men looking at the Nets & two net mending. only 3 small fish to Day."

June 28
" Wednesday Wind much the same as yesterday but clear hot sultry weather all the day. two Men at the fishing nets only 2 Pike. & two Men employed about the House."

June 29
" Thursday Wind SE till noon then variable with Thunder Lightning & rain. at noon 8 Canoes arrived with a few furs & a little Victuals. the Men employed as yesterday a few fish from the nets."

June 30
" Friday Wind & Weather much the same but more Boisterous than Yesterday. Trading a few skins from them that arrived Yesterday. The Men employed as before 3 Tickameg from our nets to Day."

July 1 1780
" Saturday Wind NW a hard gale of wind with Spots of rain. the Men employed as before. 1 Pike from our Nets."

July 2
" Sunday Wind Westerly a middling stiff Breeze Cloudy weather with great Showers of rain. two Men overhauling the fishing nets caught 10 Tickameg."

July 3
" Monday Wind Westerly a moderate Breeze. Rain most part of the Day. The Men overhauling the Nets caught one Tickameg. 6 Canoes that arrived on Thursday went away. 1 of which are intended to hunt nigh here and as soon has they kill a Beast to return with green flesh."

July 4
" Tuesday Wind NW a middling stiff Breeze part Cloudy and part clear. two Men overhauling the Nets caught 4 Tickameg & two mending a net. In the Evening the 4 Canoes that went a hunting on Monday arrived brought nothing."

July 5
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a moderate Breeze fine weather. those that arrived yester-even went away & all their families . two Men overhauling the Nets caught 3 Tickameg & setting another small one & two net mending."

July 6
" Thursday Wind SW a moderate Breeze clear warm weather. The Men employed as Yesterday caught 8 Tickameg at the nets."

July 7
" Friday Wind variable squally weather the Men employed as before caught 3 Tickameg."

July 8
" Saturday Wind Westerly a middling stiff Breeze The Men employed two at the Nets caught 4 Tickameg and 2 pike and two doing necefsary Jobbs about the House."

July 9
" Sunday Wind variable sometimes moderate other times windy read Divine Service."

July 10
" Monday Wind SE a moderate breeze part Cloudy and part clear. The Men overhauling the fishing nets and net mending caught 10 Tickameg and 1 pike."

July 11
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. the Men employed as before caught 2 Tickameg and set a small net & took up another."

July 12
" Wednesday Wind SE a moderate fine Breeze clear weather caught 30 small Gold eye'd Fish, and net mending."

July 13
" Thursday Wind variable a middling stiff Breeze clear weather the Men employed two net making and two looking at the fishing nets caught 5 Tickameg 6 Gold Eye'd fish & 1 pike. In the Evening one Canoe arrived brought a little moose flesh. but it had been too long kept for some part of it was running over with maggots."

July 14
" Friday Wind Westerly a moderate Breeze clear weather. The Men employed as yesterday caught 2 Tickameg & 20 Gold eye'd fish. the Canoe that arrived yesterday went away. I Traded the Moose flesh for their better encouragement."

July 15
" Saturday Wind NW a hard gale weather the same till noon The Men Net making & mending."

July 16
" Sunday Wind NW a hard Gale weather the same 'till noon then abated & the wind varied to SW."

July 17
" Monday Wind and weather the same as Yesterday.The men employed felling firewood."

July 18
" Tuesday Wind variable a moderate Breeze clear weather The men employed two net making & two looking at two nets and setting two more. at noon 4 Canoes arrived with Provisions. only 2 small fish to Day."

July 19
" Wednesday Wind variable hot sultry weather. The Men employed two net making & two looking at the fishing Nets caught 2 Tickameg. the Indians that arrived yesterday went away."

July 20
" Thursday Wind Easterly a moderate Breeze Clear Weather. The Men employed as yesterday caught 2 Tickameg and 1 perch."

July 21
" Friday Wind SE a moderate Breeze hot sultry clear weather. The Men employed two Net making & two looking at the fishing nets 3 Tickameg 1 pike and 10 Gold Eye'd fish. set another net."

July 22
" Saturday Wind Southerly a middling stiff breeze part Cloudy and part clear weather. the Men employed as yesterday caught a few gold Eye'd fish to Day."

July 23
" Sunday Wind Southerly a stiff Breeze part Cloudy & part Clear. The Men looking at the fishing Nets caught a few Gold Eye'd fish. at noon one Canoe arrived brought a little moose flesh."

July 24
" Monday Wind Westerly a stiff Breeze clear weather. The Men employed two making & mending & two at the Fishing nets very little from them."

July 25
" Tuesday Wind WBN a stiff Breeze clear weather. The Men employed felling firewood. the Canoe that arrived on the 23d went away."

July 26
" Wednesday Wind Westerly with squally weather small showers of rain. The Men employed about necefsary Jobbs Indoors and took up our fishing Nets very little from them."

July 27
" Thursday Wind Westerly a moderate Breeze Clear Weather. The Men employed Net mending and setting two fishing nets."

July 28
" Friday Wind variable squally weather part clear & part cloudy with Thunder & rain. 8 Tickameg from our nets & two net mending."

July 29
" Saturday Wind variable weather as yesterday two Men employed net mending & two overhauling the nets. 4 Tickameg & 1 pike."

July 30
" Sunday Wind variable weather part cloudy & part clear read Divine Service for the Day."

July 31
" Monday Wind NW a stiff Gale weather part clear part cloudy. 8 Tickameg & 1 pike. the Men employed felling firewood for the Winter."

Aug. 1 1780
" Tuesday Wind variable and clear weather 'till the evening and then WBN a hard Gale cloudy with Thunder and Lighning. The Men employed two setting two fishing nets about a mile below us. no luck from those above. & two getting Stones for repairing the Chimney's. In the Evening one Canoe arrived brought a few skins."

Aug. 2
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a moderate Breeze part cloudy & part clear. The Canoe that came Yesterday traded & went away. Two Men employed repairing the Mens Chimney and two at the nets caught 12 Gold eye'd fish and took two nets up."

Aug. 3
" Thursday Wind NE cloudy rainy weather. the Men employed as yesterday caught 30 small fish."

Aug. 4
" Friday Wind NW in the morning cloudy But at noon clear calm hot sultry weather. the Men employed as before caught 20 small fish. In the Evening 3 Canoes arrived brought a little poor dryed moose flesh."

Aug. 5
" Saturday Wind variable part clear part Cloudy. the Men employed two working at the Chimney's & two looking at the nets and net mending very little from them."

Aug. 6
" Sunday Wind NW a stiff Breeze clear weather read Divine Service."

Aug. 7
" Monday Westerly Wind a moderate Breeze clear weather. the Men employed as yesterday. at noon arrived 21 Canoes of Indians whose families most of them are belonging to those who accompanied our people down brought very little or any thing with them. This day my Liquor being ended these Indians would not trade any other Article. but made great feast's untill they was out."

Aug. 8
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a moderate Breeze clear weather. the Men employed mending the Mens Chimney & minding the House that the Natives dont Damage any thing belonging to us. This Morning arrived 17 Canoes of Pigogomew Indians with provisions & a few furs. But they seemingly down in the Mouth because there is no Liquor. At noon also arrived one Indian Canoe with Moose flesh which I Traded some of it."

Aug. 9
" Wednesday Wind SBW a moderate Breeze clear weather. Traded the half of those Canoes that arrived yesterday and they went away. They Traded mostly Tobacco being that there was no Brandy the rest still here waiting for the arrival of some of our people; But if the Frenchmen should arrive first, what they have is theirs. 7 Tents upon our Plantation."

Aug. 10
" Thursday Wind and Weather the same as yesterday. The Men employed repairing the Master's Chimney. some Indians that is upon this plantation laid down some furs & some dried provisions for Liquor. But because I had not any they took it out again & feasted it away."

Aug. 11
" Friday Wind Westerly moderate hot sultry weather. The Men employed repairing the Masters Chimney and overhauling the Provisions. In the evening one Canoe arrived brought a little dryed Moose flesh which I traded for Tobacco."

Aug. 12
" Saturday Wind variable part clear part cloudy with Thunder Lightning & rain. The Men employed as yesterday. The Canoe that arrived yesterday went away. also 13 Canoes of those here before went away Hunting."

Aug. 13
" Sunday Wind NW a stiff gale cloudy weather. In the afternoon arrived George Hudson, James Wafs, the Flesh Indian, sky &c. their goods seemingly all safe. But a little wet owing to the Badnefs of the Weather when nigh the arrival at the House. when embarked from York Fort 10 Canoes but 4 of them taken another track is not yet arrived."

Aug. 14
" Monday Wind variable part cloudy & part clear towards Evening a shower of rain. My self George Hudson & some of the Men opening the Packages. found all safe & in good Condition at noon arrived 10 Canoes with provisions & a few furs."

Aug. 15
" Tuesday Wind WBN a stiff gale cloudy weather. The Men employed working about sundry Jobbs about the House."

Aug. 16
" Wednesday Wind NE a middling stiff gale cloudy weather with showers of rain most of the Day. the Men employed as yesterday. at noon arrived one Canoe on their pafsage down to the great carrying place. They brought a few furs to Trade Tobacco &c. But that I denied. telling them it did not lay in my power to do any such thing. In the Evening also arrived 2 Canoes from the Barren Grounds. brought a few skins & a little provisions."

Aug. 17
" Thursday Wind Northerly a stiff Gale weather Cloudy with rain most of the Day. 10 Tents of Indians upon our plantation waiting for the Arrival of our People with Brandy. In the night arrived 7 Canoes who lately went a hunting. They had but very little succefs. me having no Brandy they eat it up."

Aug. 18
" Friday Wind Westerly a moderate fine Day. The Men employed felling firewood and drying the Cloth lately come from York Fort at noon arrived 6 Canoes of Indians 4 of which was those mentioned the 13th Instant that took another track."

Aug. 19
" Saturday Wind Westerly a moderate fine Day clear weather. the Men employed drying cloth & opening the packages that arrived yesterday & putting it out to dry likewise. found everything to answer the Invoice. at noon arrived 18 Canoes of Indians. Brought some furs & a little provisions. But I do not expect to receive much of the Provisions because I have no Liquor."

Aug. 20
" Sunday Wind Southerly a moderate Breeze clear weather traded with some of the Indians."

Aug. 21
" Monday Wind variable a moderate Breeze cloudy weather. The Men employed about sundry Duties. Trading with some of the Indians that arrived on the 18th Instant at noon arrived 6 Canoes from the Beaver Lake. with a few furs 15 Tents of Indians upon this Plantation. in the Evening arrived one Canoe with a little green moose flesh."

Aug. 22
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a moderate Breeze clear weather. The Men employed felling firewood. Trading with some of the Indians that was waiting here for the arrival of our People. In the Night arrived 1 Canoe with a little green moose flesh."

Aug. 23
" Wednesday Wind SW a stiff gale clear weather. The men employed about necefsary Jobbs indoors. Myself Trading a few skins from the Indians."

Aug. 24
" Thursday Wind & Weather much the same as Yesterday. the Men employed felling a little firewood and overhauling the Provisions."

Aug. 25
" Friday Wind variable clear mild weather. The Men employed felling a little firewood at Night arrived one Canoe from the Beaver Lake which Informs me he has left a great many Canoes behind wch will arrive in two Days, most of their loading a little Provisions: But if our people does not arrive quickly my share of Provisions will be but little for want of Liquor. At this present time I have no more than 9 days dryed meat in the House. in case the Men was now arrived."

Aug. 26
" Saturday Wind NW a stiff gale weather part clear part cloudy the Men employed doing sundry Duties. In the Evening 4 Canoes arrived brought furs & some green moose flesh which I Traded."

Aug. 27
" Sunday Wind variable a stiff gale at times with small mifsling rain. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday. all except a Gun and that I am determined I will not part with 'till Mr Tomisons arrival. there has been a matter of ten Indians at times seeking Guns from me. But I am stiffly determined not to part with any. My reasons for so doing: I know that the most part of these Indians was laying about the Frenchmen, the main part of the winter and now coming with their summer hunt."

Aug. 28
" Monday Wind NW a stiff gale weather cloudy with hail and rain at times. the Men employed about sundry Duties indoors."

Aug. 29
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a moderate Breeze clear weather. at noon arrived 12 Canoes of Indians with provisions and a few furs. of those I was Informed on the 26th Instant. also In the Evening 1 Canoe arrived with a little green Moose flesh."

Aug. 30
" Wednesday Wind Southerly a moderate Breeze clear weather the Men employed setting up dry wood for the Winters use."

Aug. 31
" Thursday Wind SW a moderate Breeze clear weather. the Men employed as yesterday. In the Morning arrived 2 Canoes from York Fort with goods seemingly all safe."

Sept. 1 1780
" Friday Wind Northerly a moderate breeze clear Weather. the Men employed setting Black wood up in a pile. at noon 4 Canoes arrived with goods from York Fort. all seemingly in good condition also 16 other Canoes with provisions."

Sept. 2
" Saturday Wind Southerly a moderate Breeze fine weather three Men setting up firewood & two I sent off a fishing."

Sept. 3
" Sunday Wind Southerly clear hot sultry weather 'till noon then cloudy? the wind at NW with Lightning & rain Mr Tomison the rest of the Englishmen & Indians in all 24 Canoes arrived with goods from York Fort. all their Company seemingly all hearty and well two Canoes who embarked from York Fort with them not yet arrived."

Sept. 4
" Monday Wind Southerly a moderate Breeze with clear weather. busy Trading with the Natives and opening some of the Packages that had got wet. also took a survey of the furs Trading goods &c and found every thing agree with the Account received from Mr Walker. in the Evening the two fishermen returned brought one Days fish."

Sept. 5
" Tuesday Wind in the South quarter light Breezes with very warm weather. traded with several Indians and they went away. also paid Indians for carrying goods up from York Fort. in the Evening 4 Canoes arrived from the Northward with a trifle of Dryed provisions & a few summer skins."

Sept. 6
" Wednesday Wind & Weather as yesterday sent two Men down wire to kill fish, the rest employed repairing Canoes & packing up goods for Hudson's House. trusted several Indians a little Debt and they went away. also traded with those that arrived yesterday Evening."

Sept. 7
" Thursday Wind variable in the South quarter light Breezes with very warm weather. The Men employed as yesterday paid Indians for carrying goods up from York Fort also trusted several others a little Debt and they went away. William Walker by his own Desire embarked for YF accompanied by a low country Indian. they have with them 5 Bundles of furs. late in the Evening Ma,meek,a,thinue arrived with Goods from York Fort all safe."

" From Mr Humphrey Marten to Mr William Tomison
York Fort July 30th 1780
Mr William Tomison
Sir,
By Ma,meek,a,thinue I have the pleasure to inform you that Mr William Lockey arrived here the 28th Instant all well. that he saw not any Ice. Our Friends at Churchill lost two Men viz. Thomas Lisk Taylor and James Lauton. Mr Hearne Informs me that 50 Canoes what they call southern Indians has been there to trade & that his trade would equal that of last year. I sent by the sand fly goods as pr inclosed list you have an account of the goods trusted to Ma,meek,athinnue. Wishing you Health. I remain.
Your friend and Servant
Humphrey Marten."

Sept. 8
" Friday Wind SE a fresh Breeze with cloudy weather 'till the Evening afterwards varied to the Westward with heavy Thunder and Lightning attended with rain. finished packing the goods for Inland and did other necefsary Duty. in the Evening 2 Canoes arrived with goods from York Fort all safe & in tolerable good condition. the fishermen also returned from the wire brought 1 Days fish for all hands. they Inform me there is but very few to be caught. 2 Canoes arrived from below brought some dryed provisions part of which they traded and got Drunk."

" From Mr Humphrey Marten to Mr William Tomison
York Fort July 22d 1780
Mr William Tomison
Sir,
By the Arrival of the Sand on Thursday last I rec'd 173 made Beaver in tolerable good condition. By the same man I send you 4 Bundles containing 320 made Beaver as pr enclosed list. I desire you will have a watchfull Eye on small the Canadian, who last year intercepted & Traded with several of my North River Indians. the fly hath paid me 10 Beaver out of 40 if you would stop the rest should be obliged to you. Old Growl & Iron sides are still lame. God knows when they will be fit to set off. Mr Stephenson hath sent you a small box of things in his way. I have paid the fly 24 Beaver 2 quarts Brandy and a few other Articles as usual. wishing a properous Journey & a great Trade. Remain
Your faithful Servant
Humphrey Marten
P.S.
No news from Mr Lockey begin to be in pain for him respects of Mr Longmoore."

Sept. 9
" Saturday Wind NW a strong gale weather part clear part cloudy. 20 Men collecting firewood the rest employed about necefsary Duty indoors. late in the Evening 2 Canoes of Beaver River Indians arrived with furs & provisions to Trade. these informs of a great many Indians pitching in towards Hudsons House to wait the Arrival of your Honors Servants at that Settlement."

Sept. 10
" Sunday Wind variable a small breeze with clear Weather. trusted several Indians Debt & they went away. also fitted Fitted out 22d Men for their Journey to Hudsons House. at noon one Canoe arrived from the Northward with green Moofe flesh. William Walker also returned not being able to perform his Journey."

Sept. 11
" Monday Wind Northerly a stiff Breeze weather part cloudy part clear with small rain at times. The Men employed about necefsary Duty within and without Doors, it not being weather for them to proceed Inland. Traded with the Indians that arrived the 9th Instant. in the Evening one Canoe came from theNorthward with provisions to Trade."

Sept. 12
" Tuesday Wind variable with clear fine weather . at 8 oClock sent off 22 Men for Hudsons House. Viz. Mr Robert Longmoore in Charge, James Elphingston as his Afsistant. Malchom Rofs, Magnus Twatt, Magnus Annel, Mitchell Omen, Wm Omen, Wm Lutit, Wm Folster, Wm Coupland, Nicholas Wishart, Edward Wishart, Thomas Johnston, Thomas Tate, James Tate, James Sanderson, George Rofs, Charles Isham, John Irvin, James Spence Senior & James Spence Junior. I have sent with the above persons 4774 1/6 made Beaver in Trading Goods, as also the necefsary articles of Stores &c. The Men here employed clearing away the rubbish from within the Works. the Indians all gone off the plantation except one Sick man & two Men."

Sept. 13
" Wednesday Wind SE a stiff Breeze with clear weather. sent William Walker & James Banks to hunt Geese. 4 Men setting up firewood. George Hudson & myself opening the remainder of the Packages."

Sept. 14
" Thursday Wind as yesterday but more moderate with clear weather. sent 2 men to set a small fishing net the rest employed about necefsary Duty at the House."

Sept. 15
" Friday Wind variable in the North quarter light Breezes with clear pleasant weather.William Grey repairing a small fishing net. Myself with the rest clearing up the Warehouse & shifting the dryed meat. at noon William Walker & James Banks returned from Hunting brought 13 Ducks & 4 Geese. a few pike & Tickameg from the net that was set yesterday also set another small net."

Sept. 16
" Saturday Wind NW the weather as yesterday the Men employed about various Duty. at noon one Canoe arrived from the Westward brought a few geese which they Traded for Brandy and went off again immediately."

Sept. 17
" Sunday Wind variable light breezes with clear pleasant weather. one Indian Canoe arrived from the fishing River on their Journey to the swampy River. these inform me of several Canadian canoes going past Yesterday to the Northward. But did not know the exact Number."

Sept. 18
" Monday Wind Easterly a stiff gale weather part clear part cloudy. sent William Walker & George Hudson to hunt geese. the rest employed setting up firewood & attending the nets. an Indian arrived last night from the northward brought a little green Moose flesh which he Traded for Ammunition & went away this Morning."

Sept. 19
" Tuesday Wind variable from E to NE a fresh Gale weather Cloudy with a little rain towards Evening. the people employed as Yesterday."

Sept. 20
" Wednesday Wind NW a small Breeze Weather for the most part Cloudy. at noon the Hunters returned brought 34 Ducks and 6 Geese the rest employed about various Duty a few small fish from the nets. In the Evening one Indian man and a parcel of Invalids arrived from the fishing wire below, these informs me of 18 Canoes of Canadians going up Sas,ka,che,wan River also 10 more to the Northward."

Sept. 21
" Thursday Wind ESE a small breeze with Cloudy weather. sent the Hunters away again as before. the rest employed about odd Jobbs. a few pike from the nets."

Sept. 22
" Friday Wind NE a fresh Breeze with dull Cloudy weather. laid the foundation Logs of the House that is to be built for provisions. the Indian man and his family went away to his Winters quarters but have left the Invalid Women here with out any to provide for them."

Sept. 23
" Saturday Wind NW a stiff gale weather cloudy with sun shine alternately two Men putting parchment on the Windows the rest cutting firewood. in the evening 2 Canoes arrived from above brought a little green & dryed Moose flesh. also a few Beaver skins. at 7 in the evening our Hunters returned brought 20 Geese & 6 Ducks."

Sept. 24
" Sunday Wind Westerly a fresh Breeze with clear weather 'till noon afterwards cloudy a little frost last night traded with the Indians also trusted them Debt & they went away."

Sept. 25
" Monday Wind northerly a fresh gale weather for the most part cloudy. sent 4 Men to Hunt Geese. the rest setting up firewood. at noon 4 Canoes arrived from the northward. brought a few summer skins & a little dryed provisions, part of which they Traded & got Drunk."

Sept. 26
" Tuesday Wind SW a moderate breeze with clear weather the Men employed clearing the ground for moving the the East corner of the Stockadoes farther from the House. also to set them closer. they being at present too wide. any Ill designed person may shoot a Man through the Stockadoes 60 yards Distance. a few small fish from the nets. in the Evening one Indian man & his family arrived brought a little Dryed provisions."

Sept. 27
" Wednesday Wind SE weather as yesterday the Men employed as before. traded with the Indians that arrived on the 25th Instant & trusted two of them a little Debt."

Sept. 28
" Thursday Wind WSW a small Breeze with clear weather 'till noon afterwards blowed fresh from the NW the people employed as before. the Indians that came the 25th Instant went away a few small pike from the nets. late in the Evening William Walker & George Hudson returned from Hunting, poor Luck, no Geese flying where they have been."

Sept. 29
" Friday Wind NW a stiff gale with cloudy weather. the people employed within doors. at noon James Banks & James Lisk returned from Hunting brought a few Geese & Ducks."

Sept. 30
" Saturday Wind and weather as yesterday sent James Banks and James Lisk to hunt Geese, the rest cutting firewood and took up a net to be repaired. in the Evening 3 Canoes arrived with some green & dryed flesh part of which they Traded & got Drunk."

Oct. 1 1780
" Sunday Wind Westerly a fresh gale with cold raw weather 'till the Evening afterwards calm. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday & some of them went away."

Oct. 2
" Monday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear weather. sent William Walker & George Hudson to hunt Geese. the rest employed Drying Moose flesh & doing other necefsary Duty about the House. the rest of the Indians went away that arrived on Saturday also some of the Invalids that was here before. to those I gave a supply of Ammunition & Tobacco to get them of the plantation as they could not be supported here during the Winter. in the Evening one Canoe arrived from the Northward brought little or nothing."

Oct. 3
" Tuesday Wind SW light breezes with clear warm weather. one man drying Moose flesh, the other two employed about various Jobbs trusted the Indians that came yesterday a little Debt & they went away as also those that arrived the 26th of last month."

Oct. 4
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday the Men with myself employed laying the foundation of the Canoe shed."

Oct. 5
" Thursday Wind variable with clear weather 'till noon afterwards blowd a stiff gale from the NW in the Evening our Hunters returned middling succefs."

Oct. 6
" Friday Wind SW with clear weather 'till noon afterwards varied to the Westward blowed a Strong gale with flying showers. The Men employed about various Duty. in the Evening 2 Canoes arrived from the Goose Lake on their Journey to the swampy River."

Oct. 7
" Saturday Wind NW a strong gale with Cloudy weather two Shaving Stockadoes. the rest doing odd Jobbs in doors."

Oct. 8
" Sunday Wind variable in the West quarter with thick cloudy weather. trusted the Indians that arrived on the 6th Instant a little Debt & they went away."

Oct. 9
" Monday Wind Easterly a stiff Breeze weather for the most part Cloudy sent the four Hunters off to hunt Geese the rest employed shaving stockadoes & bringing in a little firewood."

Oct. 10
" Tuesday Little wind variable in the south quarter with thick Cloudy weather. the Men employed as yesterday. in the Evening one Canoe arrived from the U,Basquiau Leader with provisions & a few Beaver skins which they Traded for Ammunition & Tobacco."

Oct. 11
" Wednesday Wind SW a small Breeze with dark Cloudy weather. one man net making. the other two employed shaving Stockadoes. the Indians that arrived yesterday went away. I have sent by them to the Leader a present of Tobacco, Ammunition & a few other small Articles also a little Brandy."

Oct. 12
" Thursday Wind variable with light Breezes clear fine weather. one man net making the other two felling a few timber pieces . at noon William Walker & George Hudson returned from hunting poor luck."

Oct. 13
" Friday Wind Westerly a fresh gale weather cloudy with a little rain at times. the men employed as yesterday. at noon James Banks and James Lisk returned from Hunting brought 24 Geese & 2 Ducks in the Evening 1 Canoe arrived from the Northward brought a little provisions & a few summer Beaver."

Oct. 14
"Saturday Little wind variable in the East quarter with clear fine weather. the Men employed about various Duty. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday & they went away."

Oct. 15
" Sunday Wind SW a fresh gale with clear weather till the Evening afterwards calm."

Oct. 16
" Monday Wind SE a stiff gale weather for the most part cloudy smart frost last night. one man net making sent two Men to look at a Sturgeon net that was set on Saturday but returned without succefs. the rest with Myself felling a few timber pieces."

Oct. 17
" Tuesday Wind SW a fresh Breeze with clear warm weather. sent James Banks & James Lisk a goose Hunting. two men net making, the rest opening sinnet to make lines for nets."

Oct. 18
" Wednesday Wind northerly a strong gale with snow and Sleet. the people employed within doors. two Indians arrived in the night brought some Dryed provisions."

Oct. 19
" Thursday Wind SW a moderate Breeze weather part cloudy part clear. a sharp frost last night. one man net making. sent the other two to the net brought one small Sturgeon. Traded with the two Indians also trusted them a little Debt and they went away. in the Evening James Banks & James Lisk returned from hunting brought 5 Geese. several Indians arrived from below brought some green flesh and a few Beaver skins."

Oct. 20
" Friday Wind as yesterday a fresh Breeze with thawing weather the Men employed making lines for nets."

Oct. 21
" Saturday Wind variable from SE to SW a moderate Breeze with clear warm weather. the Men employed about various Duty. the snow almost gone."

Oct. 22
" Sunday Wind SW a fresh Breeze Weather as yesterday."

Oct. 23
" Monday Wind SE a small Breeze with clear fine weather. sent two Men to the net but returned with no better succefs than before. one man a net making. William Walker and George Hudson a hunting. myself with the rest fell a few timber pieces for sawing. in the Evening the Hunters returned without succefs."

Oct. 24
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. the Men employed making nets and lines for Ditto. gave the Indians that arrived the 19th Instant a supply of ammunition and sent them a Hunting."

Oct. 25
" Wednesday Wind variable with clear weather 'till noon afterwards cloudy and blowed fresh from the Westward. the Men employed as yesterday. in the Evening one of the Hunters returned brought little or nothing."

Oct. 26
" Thursday Wind SW a fresh Breeze with clear weather a smart frost in the night the men employed about various Duty. the other Hunter returned brought a few Beaver."

Oct. 27
" Friday Wind & Weather much the same as yesterday the Men employed as on Wednesday last. trusted the Indians a little Debt and they went away to their winters quarters."

Oct. 28
" Saturday Wind NW a stiff gale clear weather. the Men employed two lining nets. the rest making lines for Ditto & cutting firewood."

Oct. 29
" Sunday Wind variable from SW to NE cold air with Cloudy weather."

Oct. 30
" Monday Wind Eastly a fresh Breeze weather clear cold sharp air a sharp frost last night the Men employed making nets & cutting firewood."

Oct. 31
" Tuesday Wind SW a stiff Breeze weather part cloudy part clear. a sharp frost in the night. the men employed two making nets the rest setting up firewood. in the Evening one Indian man and his Wife arrived from below. brought a little provisions and a few Beaver skins."

Nov. 1 1780
" Wednesday Little wind variable with cloudy warm weather. the people employed two men hewing timber pieces two net making the rest pointing the Inside of the House with mud."

Nov. 2
" Thursday Wind Easterly a stiff gale with dull cloudy weather. the Men employed as yesterday. in the Evening the Indian man & his Wife went away that arrived the 31st of last month."

Nov. 3
" Friday Wind SW a small Breeze till noon afterwards calm clear weather. two Men hewing timber pieces. the rest employed about various Duty."

Nov. 4
" Saturday Little wind variable with clear fine weather. the People employed two Men hewing timber pieces. the rest lining nets and cutting firewood."

Nov. 5
" Sunday Wind WNW a strong gale with cloudy weather."

Nov. 6
" Monday Wind Northerly a small breeze weather part cloudy part clear. the Men employed hewing timber pieces & put lines to a net."

Nov. 7
" Tuesday Wind NNW a stiff gale weather cloudy with a little snow at times. the men employed two net making and the rest hewing timber pieces. a small flight of snow fell in the night."

Nov. 8
" Wednesday Little wind Northerly with cloudy freezing weather a great part of the Lake frozen over, the people employed as yesterday."

Nov. 9
" Thursday Wind SW a stiff gale weather part cloudy part clear sent one man a partridge Hunting. the rest employed about various Duty. 6 partridges to Day."

Nov. 10
" Friday Wind NW a fresh gale with Drifting weather. the men employed Shifting the provisions to the out office. 2 partridges to Day."

Nov. 11
" Saturday Wind Westerly a fresh Breeze with cold freezing weather. sent one man a hunting. one man with myself bringing stuff for snow shoe frames. the rest employed net making and cutting firewood. 3 partridges to Day. the Lake all frozen over but not strong enough for setting nets."

Nov. 12
" Sunday Wind SW a fresh Breeze with clear mild weather."

Nov. 13
" Monday Wind variable weather cloudy with snow most part of the Day. the Men employed about necefsary Duty within Doors."

Nov. 14
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a stiff gale with snow all Day. the Men employed about trifling Jobbs within doors. snowed much in the night."

Nov. 15
" Wednesday Wind SW a small Breeze with cloudy warm weather. sent one man a hunting two men hewing timber pieces the rest employed net making and clearing away the snow from the Doors & putting it in heaps. a few partridges to Day."

Nov. 16
" Thursday Wind variable from SW to W a fresh Breeze with cloudy thawing weather. the people employed. one man repairing a net one man a hunting and the rest a hewing Timber pieces. 2 partridges to Day."

Nov. 17
" Friday Wind WNW a small Breeze weather part cloudy part clear the Men employed two cutting firewood the rest set 3 Sturgeon nets."

Nov. 18
" Saturday Little wind Southerly weather clear with sharp air. the men employed cutting firewood. also set two Sturgeon nets and brought a few Sturgeon from those set Yesterday."

Nov. 19
" Sunday Wind variable weather as yesterday till noon afterwards Cloudy."

Nov. 20
" Monday Wind Easterly a fresh breeze weather cloudy with snow most part of the day. the people employed sent three men to the nets two men hewing timber pieces and two setting a few Rabbet snares. 20 Sturgeon to day from the nets."

Nov. 21
" Tuesday Wind SE a small Breeze clear fine weather. two Men hewing timber pieces the rest clearing away the snow and Cutting firewood."

Nov. 22
" Wednesday Wind as Yesterday with dark Cloudy weather. the Men employed about various Duty. 3 Rabbets to day also 1 Wolf from a set Gun."

Nov. 23
" Thursday Little wind variable from South to NW weather cloudy with snow at Intervals. the people employed hewing timber pieces and attending the nets. 15 Sturgeon to day. also 5 Rabbets from the snares."

Nov. 24
" Friday Wind and weather as yesterday. the people employed two men hewing timber pieces. the badnefs of our Hatchets makes the work go but slowly on. the rest cutting firewood and did other necefsary Duty Indoors. 4 Rabbets to Day."

Nov. 25
" Saturday Wind NNW a stiff gale with a low drift. one man a hunting the rest employed as yesterday. 5 partridges to Day."

Nov. 26
" Sunday Little wind variable with cloudy mild weather afterwards blowed fresh from the NW."

Nov. 27
" Monday Wind Westerly a stiff Gale weather cloudy with a low Drift. the Men employed carrying in Timber pieces to the sawpit. also some pieces for building."

Nov. 28
" Tuesday Wind WSW a small Breeze with clear sharp weather. sent one man a hunting and the rest to the nets 20 Sturgeon to Day."

Nov. 29
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a smart breeze with clear sharp weather. the men employed cutting firewood. in the evening 3 Indians arrived being part of those that went from here the 27th of October they have brought 30 lb of half dryed Moose flesh a few Beaver & Cats."

Nov. 30
" Thursday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze weather much the same as yesterday sent William Walker & George Hudson to set up Martin traps. the rest employed cutting firewood. traded with the Indians and they went away. also gave them a little provisions as they complain much for want food."

Dec. 1 1780
" Friday Wind SW a stiff gale with clear weather. one Man employed about necefsary Jobbs within doors. sent the rest to the nets 15 Sturgeon 1 pike and 1 Nemakuse."

Dec. 2
" Saturday Wind and Weather as yesterday but more milder. the People employed James Banks & James Lisk sawing feather edge boards the rest cutting firewood. 2 Rabbets from the snares."

Dec. 3
" Sunday Wind variable from SW to NW a small Breeze with Cloudy mild weather."

Dec. 4
" Monday Wind SE a small Breeze with thick snowy weather. the Men employed about odd Jobbs within doors last night two Invalid Indians arrived in a starving condition for want of food."

Dec. 5
" Tuesday Wind NE a smart Breeze with cold freezing weather. the people employed two men sawing boards sent the rest to the nets and in the Evening returned brought 20 Sturgeon 1 pike and 2 Nemakuse."

Dec. 6
" Wednesday Wind NNW a fresh gale weather as yesterday. two men at the saw. the rest employed felling a few timber pieces for building. late in the Evening 3 Indians arrived from the Westward tolerable well gooded."

Dec. 7
" Thursday Wind variable from NW to West with a continuance of clear sharp weather. the men employed sawing boards & cutting up firewood. Traded with the Indians that arrived last night and gave them all the encouragement I pofsibly could to induce them to come again in the Spring. by their account they are much nearer to the Canadians than to us."

Dec. 8
" Friday Wind SW a small Breeze weather clear & not so sharp as before. the Men employed as yesterday. in the Evening William Walker & George Hudson returned brought 6 Martins. also two Indians arrived with a little moose flesh. & those went away that came on the 6th Instant."

Dec. 9
" Saturday Wind variable from SW to W a fresh gale with clear sharp weather. sent the people to the nets 15 Sturgeon and 1 pike to day. in the Evening 3 young Indians arrived for Tobacco, provisions and powder to salute the House. they Inform me that they left the rest of their Company about 12 miles from here & that they are in a Starving Condition for want of food as they have had no succefs in hunting on their Journey. I gave them 30 lb of pimmacon, 3 Sturgeon, tobacco and powder according to the number of Indians and sent them off again immediately."

Dec. 10
" Sunday Wind NW a stiff gale with cold drifting weather. in the forenoon the Indians mentioned yesterday arrived. about 30 in Number being part of the U.Basquiau and Cowin.eth.tow Tribes. Towards Evening they Traded some Liquor and got Drunk."

Dec. 11
" Monday Wind Westerly weather much the same as yesterday. the people employed two men sawing Boards one man repairing a small fshing net & the rest cutting firewood. traded with some of the Indians & made the Leader a present. also gave them some provisions they being greatly distrefsed for want of food."

Dec. 12
" Tuesday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze with clear sharp weather. sent 5 men to set a small net. also to overhaul the other five that is down. the Lake is shut up as far as their is water so that few fish can pafs or repafs without being caught. finished Trading with the Indians and made them presents as usual. also sent by them some Tobacco to others. these have brought 457 made Beaver chiefly whole and half parchment. 10 Sturgeon & 1 Pike from the nets."

Dec. 13
" Wednesday Wind Southerly a small Breeze weather part Cloudy part clear & not so sharp as yesterday. the people employed two men sawing boards the rest cutting firewood the Indians gone away."

Dec. 14
" Thursday Wind Westerly a stiff Breeze weather clear with a low Drift. William Walker and George Hudson went to their traps. the rest employed cutting firewood. at noon 20 Indians arrived from the Southward they have brought a few furs but as much in want of provisions as those that arrived before."

Dec. 15
" Friday Little wind Southerly with clear mild weather. sent four Men to the Nets the other man attending the gates. Traded with the Indians and made them presents as usual. they have brought 164 made Beaver in Different sorts of furs. 10 Sturgeon & 2 pike to Day."

Dec. 16
" Saturday Wind Easterly a stiff Breeze with cloudy weather. the people employed one man a hunting the rest cutting firewood. the Indians went away in the night. 2 partridges to Day."

Dec. 17
" Sunday Wind variable with Cloudy mild weather."

Dec. 18
" Monday Wind Northerly a fresh Breeze with Cloudy rimy weather. sent 4 Men to the nets. the other man employed within Doors. 10 Sturgeon and 2 pike to Day. in the Evening 3 Indians arrived from the Beaver Lake with a trifle of furs to Trade. these Inform me they have eat nothing these 3 Days past and before they came away from their familys eat up all there Dogs."

Dec. 19
" Tuesday Wind NE a stiff Breeze with Drizzling snowy weather. the men employed cutting firewood. in the Evening arrived one family of Starved Indians brought nothing except 3 Otters."

Dec. 20
" Wednesday Wind SE a fresh gale weather part cloudy part clear with a low Drift. the Men employed two at the saw the rest with two Dogs hauling home boards. two of the three Indians that came on the 18th Instant went away but the other one stays here to recover he being ailing. I was obliged to give the other two provisions to carry them back to their families as they cannot hunt. also gave some to those that arrived yesterday, they being in great want of food."

Dec. 21
" Thursday Wind as yesterday weather cloudy with snow towards Evening. the Men employed as yesterday. snowed a little in the night."

Dec. 22
" Friday Wind NW a small breeze weather part Cloudy part clear. sent 4 Men to the nets. the other man employed clearing away the snow from the works. 14 Sturgeon and 1 pike from the nets. in the Evening the trappers returned brought 26 Martins."

Dec. 23
" Saturday Little wind westerly with thick Cloudy rimy weather. the Men employed cutting firewood."

Dec. 24
" Sunday Wind Southerly a small Breeze weather as yesterday."

Dec. 25
" Monday Little wind variable with clear fine weather gave some of the Indians a supply of ammunition and sent them away to Hunt as they are Starving. the others staying here to wait for their relations."

Dec. 26
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear mild weather. 14 Sturgeon from the nets to Day."

Dec. 27
" Wednesday Wind SE weather as yesterday 'till the Evening afterwards Cloudy. at noon two of the Indians that pitched away the 25th Instant came for provisions as they have had no succefs in hunting. I gave them Sturgeon & they went away."

Dec. 28
" Thursday Calm Cloudy mild weather with a thick rime towards Evening. William Walker went to look at his Martin traps."

Dec. 29
" Friday Little wind variable with clear warm weather. 10 Sturgeon & 2 pike to Day from the nets. in the Evening set 3 Guns for Wolves seen on the Lake."

Dec. 30
" Saturday Little wind Easterly with thick cloudy rimy weather. the Men employed cutting firewood. at noon William Walker returned from his traps brought 25 Martins. also received 1 Wolf from the guns set yesterday. late in the Evening two families of Starved Indians arrived from the northward. these are the relations of the Indian left here on the 20th Instant which is pretty well recovered of his lamenefs as also his strength."

Dec. 31
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh gale weather cloudy with a drizzling snow at times. gave the Indians that arrived last night a little dryed provisions also what fish I had to spare."

Jan. 1 1781
" Monday Wind ENE a stiff Gale with cloudy Drifting weather."

Jan. 2
" Tuesday Wind ESE a small Breeze with cloudy snowy weather. the men employed about trifling Duty within doors. fitted out the Indians ready for going away to trap Martins."

Jan.3
" Wednesday Little wind variable with clear mild weather. sent one man a hunting the rest at the nets 20 Sturgeon & a few partridges to day. at noon the Indians went away. there is still a number of helplefs women and Children left on the plantation."

Jan. 4
" Thursday Wind SE a small Breeze with clear warm weather. the Men employed sawing boards & cutting up firewood. George Hudson went to his traps."

Jan. 5
" Friday Wind NW a stiff gale with cloudy Drifting weather the people employed as yesterday."

Jan. 6
" Saturday Wind ESE a fresh Breeze with clear sharp weather. sent one man a hunting and the rest at the nets 10 Sturgeon and 6 partridges to day. George Hudson returned from his traps brought 18 martins. in the Evening the U,Basquiau Leader & four more Indians arrived with a few furs to trade."

Jan. 7
" Sunday Wind as yesterday weather Cloudy with a Drizzling snow at times. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday and made the Leader a present as usual."

Jan. 8
" Monday Little wind variable in the South quarter with cloudy mild weaher. the Men employed two sawing boards and the rest cutting firewood. the Indians went away & several of those here before I have sent along with them to be supported. in the Evening one of those that went from here on the 25th of last month arrived with a few Beaver & other skins."

Jan. 9
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a small Breeze weather Cloudy with snow at times. the Men employed one a partridge hunting and the rest at the nets. 10 Sturgeon and 3 partridges to Day. in the Evening the Invalid Indians that went away yesterday returned not being able to keep up with those they went away with."

Jan. 10
" Wednesday Wind SW a small Breeze with Cloudy warm weather. the men employed sawing boards and cutting firewood. the Indian that arrived the 8th Instant went away."

Jan. 11
" Thursday Little wind variable from SW to W with clear fine weather. William Walker went to his traps. one man a net making and the rest cutting firewood."

Jan. 12
" Friday Calm clear fine weather. one man a net making sent the rest to the nets 5 small Sturgeon to day. in the Evening two Indians arrived from the northward brought a trifle of Furs to trade. William Walker also returned from his. brought 1 Wolf but no Martins. the former having broke down all the traps and eat what Martins was caught."

Jan. 13
" Saturday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze with clear weather. the Men employed sawing plank & cutting up firewood."

Jan. 14
" Sunday Wind Westerly a stiff gale with Cloudy sharp weather. the two Indians that arrived the 12th Instant went away in the night. late in the Evening two familys of Indians arrived from the Southward in a very Starving Condition for want of food."

Jan. 15
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday gave the Indians that came last night a little food. 10 Sturgeon & 1 pike from the nets to Day."

Jan. 16
" Tuesday Wind SW a small Breeze till noon afterwards variable with clear sharp air. the Men employed sawing plank and cutting up firewood. in the Evening an Indian man & his Wife arrived from the Southward with furs to Trade."

Jan. 17
" Wednesday Wind northerly a stiff gale weather cloudy with snow & Drift. the men employed cutting a little firewood. late in the Evening two Indians came from the Southward these are part of those that went from here on the 3d Instant they have brought 20 made Beaver in good furs."

Jan. 18
" Thursday Wind WSW a fresh gale with clear sharp weather. the people employed one man a net making two cleaning away the snow & the rest cutting up firewood. the two Indians that arrived last night went away."

Jan. 19
" Friday Little wind Easterly weather cloudy 'till noon afterwards blowed fresh northerly with snow. the two Indians that arrived on the 16th Instant went away. 12 Sturgeon and 2 pike from the nets to Day."

Jan. 20
" Saturday Wind Easterly a strong gale with Drifting weather. the men employed cutting firewood. the Indians that went away yesterday returned. the man not being able to walk for a pain in his back."

Jan. 21
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday till the evening afterwards a little moderate."

Jan. 22
" Monday Wind as yesterday a moderate Breeze weather part Cloudy part clear. sent all hands to the nets 6 small Sturgeon and 2 pike to Day."

Jan. 23
" Tuesday Little wind variable in the North quarter with clear sharp weather. one man a hunting one net making and the rest employed cutting firewood. 4 partridges to day."

Jan. 24
" Wednesday Wind SW a small Breeze with Cloudy mild Weather. the people employed one man a net making & the rest cutting firewood. the 2 Indians mentioned on the 20th Instant went away."

Jan. 25
" Thursday Wind Westerly Weather as yesterday. the men at the nets 8 Sturgeon and 2 small pike to Day. in the Evening three Indians arrived from below brought a little green Moofe flesh and a few furs to trade part of which they traded & got Drunk."

Jan. 26
" Friday Wind SW a small Breeze with thick Cloudy mild weather. the Men employed cutting firewood. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday and made them a present as usual also sent some Tobacco to their tentmates."

Jan. 27
" Saturday Little wind variable weather as yesterday with a drizzling snow at times. the men employed cutting firewood and doing trifling duty within doors. the Indians that arrived on the 25th Instant went away."

Jan. 28
" Sunday Wind variable in the west quarter a small Breeze with Cloudy Weather."

Jan. 29
" Monday Wind NW a stiff Breeze weather part cloudy part clear 14 Sturgeon and a few small fish to Day from the nets. in the Evening one Indian Man & his Wife arrived from the northward with furs to Trade."

Jan. 30
" Tuesday Wind SE a small Breeze weather cloudy with snow at times. the people employed cutting up firewood. traded with the Indian that came yesterday and made him a present of some ammunition Tobacco & a few other small articles as encouragement for bringing good Furs."

Jan. 31
" Wednesday Wind SE a fresh Breeze weather cloudy with snow at times. the people employed two Men with dogs bringing home plank. the rest getting stuff for Stockadoes. the Indians that came on the 29th Instant went away. also those that arrived on the 14th."

Feb. 1 1781
" Thursday Wind variable between NW & West stiff Gales with clear sharp weather. the people employed one man hewing stuff for a Sledge & the rest at the nets 8 Sturgeon & 1 pike to Day. late in the Evening received a packet by the arrival of five Men from Hudsons House which gave us the agreeable news of all being well there. the scarcity of provsions excepted. which is the same complaint here."

" From Mr Robert Longmoore to Mr William Tomison
Hudson's House January 17th 1781
Sir,
This comes with my Compliments to you hoping this will find you and all under your Command in good Health as thank God we are in at present, but we are very likely to be in a very bad Situation for provisions. as I have not at present above 700 lb of Beat Meat & 200 lb of dry Meat. I had always hopes of some coming in untill the last Saturday, that the Indians I trusted to arrived quite Starving, and have eat part of their dogs coming in, and there is no Indians that has been here that will stay about here to Hunt. the Ground is all Burnt & no Buffaloe, the Natives burnt it, as they was nigh hand in the Fall, and far from the Beaver Country, on purpose that they might get a great price for provisions, but great part of them has payed for it since by Hunger and obliged to go far off. I have not had above 300 lb wt. of provisions from the Stone Indians this Winter & but very few furs. I have had all of the provisions at a very dear rate & for the most part Brandy and obliged to give them ammunition for nothing. My Trade at this time is very little above 2000.
Sir
I hope that if Pofsible that you can spare any Brandy, you will send by the Bearers as much as pofsible you can, and 56 lb of low India, Shot Bristol about 14 lb and if you can spare four or five Dozen Roach handled Knives. as for any thing else I don't stand in much need. I sent 6 Men out the first of the Winter, but in one Months absence they returned, almost starving. the 22d of last Month I sent of 6 Men & the Home guard Indian with the Indians to find themselves. I arrived at Hudson's House September the 28th with the Carpenter & one Man to have the Doors put on, as there was a great number of Indians nigh hand & two tents on the Plantation. I found the roof fallen in and two Beams broke, which we repaired as fast as pofsible, and cut plank & laid the upper floor. I stopped the Men a great deal longer then what I would, thinking to have sent you better news But I am Obliged to send them as it is those Men. I have served full allowance for 12 days, but as soon as these men sets off, All hands is to be at short Allowance. All the Men behaved themselves extreemly well, & very Brisk in coming up in the Fall, or had the Frenchmen been up before us, we should have been Starved all the Year. So no more at present, but I conclude wishing succefs to the Company's affairs, and Health & Happinefs to you and all under your Command.
Sir
Your most Humble Servant
Robert Longmoore"

Feb. 2
" Friday Wind Westerly a fresh gale clear sharp weather. the Men employed as on Wednesday. in the Evening five Indians arrived from above with a few furs to trade."

Feb. 3
" Saturday Wind SW a fresh Breeze weather clear but not so cold as yesterday. the people employed cutting up firewood. Traded with the Indians that came Yesterday & gave one of them a present as he is a good Indian & builds canoes for us. in the Evening they went away."

Feb. 4
" Sunday Wind NW fresh Gales with cold drifting weather."

" From Mr William Tomison to Mr Robert Longmoore
Cumberland House February 4 1781
Sir,
By the Arrival of five Men on the 1st Instant I received your kind favor Dated the 17th of January which gave me great pleasure to hear that you and all under your Direction was in good health, which happinefs thank God we enjoy here.
As to provisions, I never see a greater scarcity amongst the Natives then what has been this year. I have had no more than 6 sides of moose flesh brought in this winter. Rabbets and partridges scarce any to be got and fish not so plenty as usual. I have been obliged to send provisions to Starved Indians before they came to the House and Maintain them while here. also to give them a supply to carry them away which has reduced my small greatly: if provisions should grow plenty with you in the spring you will please to Trade about the same quantity for this place as you did last year, and more if pofsible, as in all probability I may not be able to get any quantity here. you will also endeavour to get as many Indians as you pofsibly can to afsist in carrying down furs and tell them from me that I shall preserve a little Brandy for them against that time.

Our Trade at this place upwards of 5000 made Beaver including what was left last year and there is a daily expectation of more, as there is no Canadians nigher to us then where the Dutchman wintered last year.

I have sent by the Bearers the following Articles of Trading Goods Viz. Brandy Gallons 22 1/4, Shot Bristol 18 lb, Low Indian 57 lb and roach Knives N 48 which is all I can spare, the Brandy especially, as you know it is very Difficult to get Indians to afsist in carrying down furs, when there is Brandy, much more so when there is none. I Conclude wishing great succefs to the Companys affairs Health & happinefs to you an all under your Command and Remain
Your most Obedient Humble Serv.
William Tomison
P.S. Please to bring down with you the pit saw & spade."

Feb. 5
" Monday Wind SW a stiff Breeze with clear sharp weather. the Men employed Magnus Twatt repairing Indian Guns that has been here since the fall. the rest at the nets 8 Sturgeon to Day. fitted out the packet men with provisions and necefsary's for their Journey back to Hudson's House. I have also sent by them the following Articles of Trading goods viz. Brandy Gallons 22 1/4, Shot Bristol 18 lb, Low Indian 57 lb and roach Knives N 48. late in the evening three Indians arrived from the Northward with furs to Trade."

Feb. 6
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a stiff gale with Cloudy drifting weather. Magnus Twatt repairing Indian Guns the rest employed cutting Firewood. traded with the Indians that came last Evening. they have brought 69 made Beaver in whole & half parchment. in the evening they away & four men arrived with some green provisions and a few furs to Trade."

Feb. 7
" Wednesday Wind NW a small Breeze with clear fine weather. the men employed as yesterday. the packet Men returned for Hudson's House. William Walker and George Hudson went away to put up their Martin traps. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday & at noon they went away."

Feb. 8
" Thursday Little wind southerly with clear mild weather. Magnus Twatt repairing an Indian Gun. sent the rest to the nets 6 Sturgeon & 1 pike to Day. two families of Indians arrived from the Northward brought a little green Moofe flesh & a trifle of furs to Trade. these have been starving most part of the Winter and have eaten most part of their skins they caught in the Fall."

Feb. 9
" Friday Wind and weather as Yesterday. the Men employed collecting stuff for Stockadoes, fitted out the Indians that came yesterday and sent them acrofs the Lake to Hunt moose & bring green meat in."

Feb. 10
" Saturday Wind Ely a stiff gale with clear weather till noon afterwards cloudy with a drizzling snow. the Men employed about various Duty."

Feb. 11
" Sunday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear mild weather."

Feb. 12
" Monday Little wind variable with Cloudy warm weather. the people employed two men sawing plank Magnus Twatt doing small Jobbs in the Carpenters way. 6 small Sturgeon & 2 pike to Day from the nets."

Feb. 13
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a small Breeze weather as yesterday. two Men sawing plank the rest cutting firewood. at noon three Indians arrived from acrofs the Lake with a few furs to Trade."

Feb. 14
" Wednesday Wind NW a stiff gale with clear sharp weather. the people employed two men sawing plank, one man net making, one repairing an Indian Gun and the rest cutting firewood. Traded with the Indians that came Yesterday & made them small presents as usual. at noon two Indians came from the Southward with a little green moofe flesh."

Feb. 15
" Thursday Wind WSW a small Breeze with clear sharp air. the Men employed as Yesterday. Traded the meat from the Indians that came yesterday & they went away, also those that arrived on the 13th Instant."

Feb. 16
" Friday Wind Westerly a fresh gale with very sharp weather. sent the Men to the nets. set one & brought home two to be repaired. 6 Sturgeon & 2 pike to Day."

Feb. 17
" Saturday Wind SW a stiff gale weather as yesterday. Magnus Twatt employed fileing up some bad Iron work that the natives have refused to Trade. the rest cutting firewood. at noon ten Indians arrived with provisions and a few furs to Trade. also William Walker & George Hudson returned from their traps brought 19 Martins. the Indians Traded a little Liquor and got Drunk."

Feb. 18
" Sunday Wind SE a small Breeze with Cloudy mild weather. traded with the Indians that arrived yesterday and gave them encouragement to bring more provisions."

Feb. 19
" Monday Wind variable with a drizzling snow 'till noon afterwards clear Weather. the people employed two Men repairing a net & the rest cut firewood. the Indians went away that came on the 17th Instant & in the Evening eight more arrived from the westward with Furs to Trade. these are tolerable well gooded but have not brought any provisions."

Feb. 20
" Tuesday Little wind Easterly weather as yesterdsy the men employed Magnus Twatt mending an Indian Kettle. sent the rest to set a net & take one up to be repaired. 6 Sturgeon & 3 perch to Day. traded with the Indians that came Yesterday and made them a present as encouragement for bringing good furs."

Feb.21
" Wednesday Wind SE a small Breeze weather part clear part cloudy with a little snow in the forenoon. the people employed one man net mending one man hewing, two sawing boards and the rest carrying snow out of the yard. the Indians went away that came the 19th Instant."

Feb. 22
" Thursday Wind Westerly a small Breeze with clear warm weather. the people employed two men mending nets Magnus Twatt sharpning the saw & the rest cutting firewood."

Feb. 23
" Friday Wind variable in the south quarter stiff gales with Cloudy mild weather. sent William Walker to overhaul his martin traps. Magnus Twatt hewing timber pieces & the rest at the nets set two & brought one home to be repaired. no luck of fish to Day."

Feb. 24
" Saturday Wind Westerly a fresh gale with clear weather 'till the Evening afterwards calm. thawed a little under the Lee. the people employed one man net making one man hewing timber pieces two sawing feather edge boards and the rest cutting firewood."

Feb. 25
" Sunday Wind SE a stiff gale weather cloudy with a low Drift. late in the Evening William Walker returned from his traps brought 8 martins and 1 Quiquahatch."

Feb. 26
" Monday Wind SW a small Breeze weather Cloudy till noon afterwards clear. the people employed one man net making one man hewing timber pieces two sawing boards and the rest with the Dogs bringing home boards."

Feb. 27
" Tuesday Little wind variable in the west quarter with clear sharp weather. the Carpenter employed in his way & sent the rest to the nets. set one & brought one home which is worn out. 2 small Sturgeon to Day."

Feb. 28
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze Cloudy weather with snow towards Evening. the people employed two Men sawing boards one man net making one Man hewing Timber and the rest cutting firewood. in the Evening three Indian women arrived from the Southward brought a trifle of Furs & a little provisions to trade."

Mar. 1 1781
" Thursday Wind SW a small Breeze with clear weather. the Men employed as yesterday. the Indians traded and went away & in the Evening four more arrived from the Red Deers River also two families that has been hunting a little way from here. they all paid their Debts then Traded a little Liquor & got Drunk."

Mar.2
" Friday Little wind Easterly with clear mild weather. the people employed one man hewing and sent the rest to the nets 5 Small Sturgeon to Day. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday and in the Evening four men arrived from below with provisions also two from above with furs to Trade."

Mar. 3
" Saturday Wind ESE a small Breeze weather part clear part Cloudy and thawed much to day. towards noon the Indians that arrived the 1st & 2d Instant Traded & went away with those that came from below. I have sent two Men & two Dogs to bring moose flesh. George Hudson went to his traps and the rest employed about various Duty. in the Evening three families of Indians came from the Northward with furs & a little provisions to trade part of which they Traded and got Drunk."

Mar. 4
" Sunday Wind variable between SW & West a stiff Gale weather cloudy with a low Drift. Traded with the Indians that came Yesterday and made them a present as usual for bringing Good furs."

Mar. 5
" Monday Little wind variable from NW to SE weather clear with sharp air. the men employed getting some timber pieces for feather edge boards. the Indians went away that arrived on the 3d Instant."

Mar. 6
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear fine weather. The people employed one man a hewing timber & sent three men to the nets brought one home which is worn out 3 small Sturgeon to day."

Mar. 7
" Wednesday Wind NE a stiff gale with Cloudy weather. the men employed hewing timber for building. George Hudson returned from his traps brought 11 Martins also James Wafs and Wm Grey arrived accompanied by a party of Indians from below with provisions & a few furs part of which they Traded & got drunk."

Mar. 8
" Thursday Little wind Southerly first part clear with snow latter part clear fine weather. the men employed about various Duty within doors. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday and gave them encouragement for bringing provisions. at noon they went away."

Mar. 9
" Friday Wind as yesterday weather Clear & thawed a little towards noon. the Men employed carrying timber pieces to the pit to be sawed."

Mar. 10
" Saturday Wind SW a fresh gale with clear weather till the Evening afterwards varied to the NW with snow and Drift. the people employed, two men sawing boards one man hewing timber the rest cut firewood & did other odd Jobbs about the House."

Mar. 11
" Sunday Wind NW a strong gale with cold Drifting weather 'till the Evening afterwards moderate."

Mar. 12
" Monday Wind Southerly a stiff gale weather as yesterday the people employed one man hewing timber two men sawing boards the rest with the dogs hauling home timber for building."

Mar. 13
" Tuesday Wind NW a fresh gale with a little snow at times. the Men employed as yesterday. at noon three Indians arrived from above. also five more from the southward with furs & a little provisions to Trade."

Mar. 14
" Wednesday Little wind northerly weather part Cloudy part clear. the people employed one man a hewing as before, one man a net making, sent the rest to the nets at noon returned with 2 small pike & four Sturgeon. traded with the Indians that arrived yesterday and in the Evening three of them went away."

Mar. 15
" Thursday a stiff gale Easterly weather part clear part Cloudy with a low drift. one man a net making the Carpenter a hewing timber, two men sawing boards and the rest employed about odd Jobbs. the other five Indians went away that came On Tuesday."

Mar. 16
" Friday Little wind variable weather for the most part cloudy & thawed a little towards noon. Carpenter & sawyers employed as Yesterday, the rest bringing stuff for trunnels. in the evening three Indians came from below, brought little or nothing and Complain much for want of food. George Hudson went to his traps."

Mar. 17
" Saturday Wind ESE a fresh Breeze with cold raw weather. Carpenter & sawyers as before. the rest employed about various Duty. at noon three Indians arrived from above brought a little provisions & a few Martins which they Traded and went away again in the Evening."

Mar. 18
" Sunday Little wind southerly with Cloudy weather till noon afterwards clear and blowed fresh from the westward. fitted out the Indians that arrived on the 16th Instant with ammunition also gave them a supply of provisions & they went away. in the Evening George Hudson returned from his traps brought nothing the wolves having eat all that was caught & broke down most part of the traps which he has not put up again."

Mar. 19
" Monday Wind Westerly a fresh Breeze with clear sharp weather. the Carpenter and two Men hewing timber. sent the rest to the nets 6 Sturgeon to Day."

Mar. 20
" Tuesday Little wind variable as yesterday three Men hewing timber, the rest employed about various Jobbs."

Mar. 21
" Wednesday Wind NW a stiff gale weather clear and very sharp. the Carpenter & two Men hewing timber. one man net making. one making trunnels & the rest employed cutting up firewood."

Mar. 22
" Thursday Wind variable between SW & West a small Breeze weather as yesterday. the Carpenter employed as before the rest gathering timber into a heap ready for hauling home also did other Trifling Duty about the House."

Mar. 23
" Friday Wind as yesterday a stiff gale with a Continuance of sharp weather. the Carpenter hewing timber. two Men hewing stuff for Ribbons for the Stockadoes. one Man making trunnels, the rest with two Dogs hauling home timber pieces from the point above the House."

Mar. 24
" Saturday Wind WSW a moderate Breeze till noon afterwards varied to the NW a strong Gale with Drifting weather. the men employed Carpenter as before. one man making trunnels one man about odd Jobbs within doors. sent the rest to the nets set one & brought one home which is worn out. also brought 6 small Sturgeon. in the Evening five Indians arrived from the westward brought a few furs to trade."

Mar. 25
" Sunday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze with Cloudy weather Traded with the Indians that came yesterday evening and made one of them a small present, he having been formerly a great Leader at York Fort but is now grown old and infirm."

Mar. 26
" Monday Wind Southerly a fresh Breeze weather part Cloudy part clear. the Carpenter hewing timber. two Men sawing Ribbon. the rest employed hauling home timber. at noon an Indian man came from the Northward brought a little provisions which he Traded and went away again in the Evening. also those that arrived on the 24th Instant."

Mar. 27
" Tuesday Wind variable light Breeze weather clear and thawed much towards noon. the Carpenter and one man hewing timber. one man making trunnel. two hauling home timber & the rest carrying snow out of the yard."

Mar. 28
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday the people employed Carpenter and one man hewing timber sent the rest to the nets brought one home which is worn out but no luck of Fish."

Mar. 29
" Thursday Wind SW a small Breeze with clear weather 'till the Evening afterwards blowed fresh from the NW the Carpenter & one man as before. the rest employed about various Duty. at noon two familes of Indians arrived brought a little green provisions."

Mar. 30
" Friday Wind variable between NE & West a small Breeze with clear weather the men employed as yesterday."

Mar. 31
" Saturday Wind SE a stiff Breeze weather part Cloudy part clear and thawed a little towards noon. the peope employed the Carpenter & one man hewing timber for building. one man a net making & the rest hewing stuff for Couples."

Apr. 1 1781
" Sunday Wind Southerly a strong gale with small Showers of rain at times 'till the Evening afterwards varied to the NW with snow. late in the Evening two Indians arrived from brought their Debt. also a little green provisions which they Traded for ammunition & Tobacco. much water on the Lake."

Apr. 2
" Monday Wind SW a stiff Breeze weather clear and thawed much. the people employed one man hewing timber the Carpenter Sharpning his tools ready for building sent the rest to the nets brought 6 Sturgeon. also took up two nets which is worn out the Indians that came yesterday went away."

Apr. 3
" Tuesday Wind variable light Breezes with very warm weather the people employed about various Duty. at noon two tents of Indians arrived from the southward paid their Debts also brought a little provisions. part of which they traded and got Drunk. these are going to build canoes here. several swans seen to Day."

Apr. 4
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze weather part cloudy part clear the men employed a building the Victualing House. at noon the U.Basquiau Leader and several more Indians arrived with furs to Trade."

Apr. 5
" Thursday Wind variable from NE to West a moderate Breeze weather cloudy with snow in the forenoon Magnus Twatt repairing Indian Kettles. the rest employed about necefsary Jobbs within doors. Traded with the Indians & made them presents as usual for bringing good furs."

Apr. 6
" Friday Wind NW a stiff Breeze with snow at times. the men employed a building & doing odd Jobbs within doors. the Indians went away that arrived on the 4 Instant and seven more arrived from the northward. also two from the westward all middling well gooded in Cats & Beaver part of which they Traded and got Drunk."

Apr. 7
" Saturday Wind Northerly a small Breeze weather clear with cold air. the Carpenter and two Men a building. William Grey ailing of a swelling in his throat. sent the rest to the nets middling succefs. traded with the Indians that came yesterday and gave them encouragement as before for bringing good furs several of those here before went away hunting also to get birch rind for Canoe building."

Apr. 8
" Sunday Wind Easterly a stiff gale with cold raw Cloudy weather. the Indians went away that arrived on the 6th Instant also those here before I have sent away to get birch rind for canoe building."

Apr. 9
" Monday Wind NE a stiff gale with snow & drift 'till the Evening afterwards clear weather. the people employed about necefsary Duty within doors. late at night four Indians arrived from the Southward with furs to Trade. these inform me of their being much troubled in getting acrofs Saskachewan River for water & the Ice being blown up in many places."

Apr. 10
" Tuesday Little wind northerly weather clear with sharp air. the Men employed a building and bringing stuff for trunnels. William Gray upon Duty. the Indians that arrived in the night Traded & went away Early this morning."

Apr. 11
" Wednesday Wind SE a small Breeze weather part cloudy part clear. the people employed a building & hewing timber received some Beaver and moofe flesh from Indian hunters. in the Evening one family of Indians arrived from U.Basquiau paid their Debts but had nothing over."

Apr. 12
" Thursday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze weather as yesterday. two men with the Carpenter & sent the rest to the nets brought them all home. also 4 small Sturgeon. in the Evening four Indians arrived from the Westward with furs to Trade middling well gooded."

Apr. 13
" Friday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday the Men employed as on Wednesday. Traded with the Indians that came last Evening & two of them went away. at noon the Hunters returned with moofe flesh & Birch rind also brought 3 Swans & some Beaver."

Apr. 14
" Saturday Little wind Northerly with clear sharp air. the people employed two men with dogs hauling home Stockadoes. the rest at work with the Carpenter."

Apr. 15
" Sunday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze weather as yesterday."

Apr. 16
" Monday Wind and weather as yesterday. the men employed as on Saturday. traded a little moose flesh from the Hunters."

Apr. 17
" Tuesday Wind variable in the north quarter with Cloudy weather. two men with the Carpenter a building. the rest employed hauling home stockadoes and getting stuff for paddles. the Indians went away that arrived on the 12 Instant."

Apr. 18
" Wednesday Little wind Easterly weather as yesterday two men Shaving stockadoes. the rest employed with the Carpenter a building. a Goose seen to day."

Apr. 19
" Thursday Wind variable fresh Breezes with clear weather the Men employed as yesterday. in the Evening one family of Indians returned from Hunting but have but little luck."

Apr. 20
" Friday Wind variable in the South quarter light Breezes with warm weather. the people employed as before. several swans and geese seen to Day."

Apr. 21
" Saturday Wind SE a stiff gale weather part cloudy part clear and thawed much one man with the Carpenter a building. one hewing timber and the rest employed about necefsary Jobbs several Ducks seen to Day."

Apr. 22
" Sunday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze weather Cloudy with sleet & rain in the Evening."

Apr. 23
" Monday Wind variable from East to NW a small breeze weather Cloudy with a Continual rain. the Men employed mending nets & doing other necefsary Duty within doors."

Apr. 24
" Tuesday Wind NW a stiff gale with clear cold weather 'till the Evening afterwards calm. the people employed the Carpenter & two Men edging plank for flooring two men mending nets and the rest doing odd Jobbs within doors a sharp frost in the night and blowed very hard from the NW."

Apr. 25
" Wednesday Little wind variable weather part cloudy part clear the men employed as yesterday traded a few swans from Indian Hunters."

Apr. 26
" Thursday Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. the people employed two men a hunting one man making wedges for the prefs. one man net mending, the Carpenter with the rest a building. 1 swan & 7 Ducks from the Hunters. in the Evening four Indians arrived from the northward with furs to Trade middling well gooded but mostly coat Beaver. Saskachewan River breaking up."

Apr. 27
" Friday Wind NE a stiff gale with cold freezing weather the Men employed about necefsary Duty within doors. Traded with the Indians that came Yesterday & they went away."

Apr. 28
" Saturday Wind northerly a fresh Breeze with a Continuance of cold weather. the Carpenter & two men laying the upper flooring of the new house. the rest making pegs for Ditto & doing odd Jobbs within doors. in the Evening two families of Indians arrived from above brought a little provisions & barely paid their Debt. these have built Canoes about a days Journey from this and had come down the River and landed at the point above not being able to come further for Ice. the above Indians went from here on the 3d of February and have seen no other Indians since."

Apr. 29
" Sunday Wind between NW & North a moderate Breeze weather clear with cold air."

Apr. 30
" Monday Wind variable light Breeze with clear warm. the Carpenter and two Men a building one man drying some moose flesh and the rest employed about various Duty. served some of the Indians ammunition and sent them away to hunt geese there is at present 72 Indians on the plantation."

May 1 1781
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday sent William Walker and George Hudson away to Saskachewan River to hunt Geese. the Carpenter and one man making couples for the new house. and the rest employed at the prefs packed 22 Bundles of Furs."

May 2
" Wednesday Little wind northerly with clear fine weather. the Men employed as yesterday. packed 22 Bundles of Furs in the Evening received a few geese from Indian hunters."

May 3
" Thursday Wind northerly a fresh Breeze weather part Cloudy part clear. the Carpenter and one putting the Couples up in the new house and the rest employed at the prefs. packed 22 Bundles of Furs. William Walker and George Hudson returned from hunting no luck."

May 4
" Friday Wind northerly a stiff Breeze with cold raw weather the Carpenter & one man a roofing the new house. and the rest employed at the prefs packed 22 Bundles of Furs."

May 5
" Saturday Little wind between NW & W with clear weather. the Men employed as Yesterday packed 23 Bundles of Furs received a few geese from Indian Hunters."

May 6
" Sunday Wind variable a small Breeze weather part cloudy part clear 2 geese to day from an Indian Hunter."

May 7
" Monday Little wind Easterly weather for the most part Cloudy sent William Walker & George Hudson to Hunt geese the rest employed as on Saturday packed 24 Bundles of Furs . in the Evening two Canoes arrived from U.Basquiau with furs to Trade."

May 8
" Tuesday Wind as yesterday weather Cloudy & blowed fresh towards Evening. the Carpenter & his mate employed as before. the rest doing necefsary Duty within doors, traded with the Indians that came last night & made the Leader a present also sent by him Tobacco & some ammunition for others as encouragement for them to come & afsist in carrying down furs to York Fort they went away in the forenoon."

May 9
" Wednesday Wind ESE a fresh gale weather Cloudy with a little rain at times. the Carpenter finished the roof the rest employed at the prefs. packed 25 Bundles of Furs. the Lake Ice much broke & drove a little way from the Shore."

May 10
" Thursday Little wind variable with clear fine weather. the Carpenter & one man making window Shutters for the windows. the rest employed about necefsary Duty within doors at noon Charles Isham & William Coupland arrived from Hudson's House brought the agreeable news of all being well there also 10 Bundles of Furs. all in good Condition. in the Evening William Walker & George Hudson returned from hunting brought 20 geese also one Canoe arrived from the Sturgeon River above with provisions part of which they Traded & got Drunk."

" From Mr Robert Longmoore to Mr William Tomison
Hudson's House May 1st 1781
Sir,
This comes with my Compliments to you hoping this will find you & all under your Direction in good Health as thank God we are all in at present.
Sir. I have sent down one Canoe as it was your desire & necefsary for you to know as nigh as pofsible I can give you Information when I can be ready to leave Hudsons House. I think that in about 12 or 14 days if good weather permits I will be ready. & as much sooner as pofsible. this day I am to put on a Big Canoe upon the Stocks 26 foot by 5. & two middle sized Canoes as fast as pofsible. there is four Indians that built last year & one Stranger this year. So I hope to have 7 middle sized Canoes & one new big one. I am but very short of Provisions only two days dryed meat in the House. Beat Meat we have sufficient to keep us from any more short Allowance. I hope, but scarce any fat. Our Trade what is ready packed is 6669 & there may be about two Bundles to pack so I cannot give you the account any nigher at present, you will excuse haste as I could not write last night for Indians & this Morning I am busy. So no more at present. I wish you health & happinefs & great succefs to the Company's affairs.
Robert Longmoore
NB. The French is coming up to Build a House above us so I am very much afraid of Hudson's House being destroyed. the Bloody Walker has stayed at the French House to bring them up with him & the rest of his Brothers arrived late last night."

May 11
" Friday Wind NE a small breeze weather Cloudy with a little rain at times. the Carpenter employed in his way one man at work in the garden & the rest doing various Jobbs served Indians ammunition & sent them away to Hunt geese. those that arrived yesterday also went away."

May 12
" Saturday Wind & weather much the same as yesterday. the Carpenter & one Man as before the rest removing the provisions into the new house & doing other necefsary Duty within doors. in the Evening 12 Indians arrived from below by land having left their Canoes at the Rivers mouth not being able to bring them further for Ice. they paid their Debts & traded a little Liquor & got Drunk."

May 13
" Sunday Wind northerly a fresh Breeze with Cloudy snowy weather, a very heavy rain last night. traded with the Indians that came yesterday & made them presents as usual. those were but Indifferently gooded having brought but 150 Beaver amongst them all. late in the Evening one Canoe arrived from U.Basquiau middling well gooded."

May 14
" Monday Wind variable from SW to East a fresh Breeze weather part Cloudy part clear. the people employed sent two men away with nets to catch fish. the Carpenter & one man laying the lower flooring of the new house & the rest doing odd Jobbs within doors. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday & they went away also those that came on the 12th Instant."

May 15
" Tuesday Wind variable light Breezes with clear fine weather sent William Walker & James Banks to Sas ka che wan River to Hunt Geese the rest employed as yesterday."

May 16
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze weather part Cloudy part clear. the Carpenter & one man as before & the rest employed about various Duty. also packed 7 Bundles of furs."

May 17
" Thursday Wind ESE a stiff gale with thunder & rain towards Evening. the Carpenter finished laying the floor. one man Digging part of the Garden, the others clearing away the Rubbish from within the works. at noon two Canoes of Hunters arrived from acrofs the Lake brought 50 Geese & a few small Beaver."

May 18
" Friday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze cloudy dull day with rain at Intervals. the men employed about necefsary Duty within Doors. William Walker & James Banks returned from hunting brought 8 Geese & two Ducks also late in the Evening Charles Isham arrived brought 60 pike & Tickameg from the fishing Place below."

May 19
" Saturday Wind between NE & East a fresh breeze first part clear latter part cloudy with rain. Charles Isham went away to his tentmate, the rest employed about various Duty without & within doors. in the Evening 10 Canoes arrived from the Sturgeon River above. these are tolerable well gooded considering the quantity of Furs that has been brought here by them in the winter. they have paid their Debts honestly. afterwards traded some Liquor & got Drunk. they have also brought 2 middling siz'd Canoes for Trade."

May 20
" Sunday Wind as yesterday weather part cloudy part clear. in the Evening one Canoe arrived from U.Basquiau with a few furs to Trade. received a few geese from Indian Hunters."

May 21
" Monday Wind ESE a fresh gale with clear weather. Magnus Twatt repairing an Indian Gun also did a Jobb in the Carpenters way one man pointing Stockadoes the rest employed about odd Jobbs. drying wet Furs. Traded with the Indians that came yesterday & they went way."

May 22
" Tuesday Wind variable from SE to SW light Breezes with clear warm weather sent Wm Walker & James Banks down to U.Basquiau to bring a Canoe that has been built by an Indian. I also sent a Present of Tobacco to Cattabobinow & others. the Carpenter employed in his way & the rest doing odd Jobbs within doors. at noon Mr Longmoore & the rest of the Englishmen arrived from Hudson's House accompanied by 6 Canoes of Indians who have afsited in bringing down Furs. Mr Longmoore has brought 3 Canoes built by himself, also 4 more built by Indians I also received a Letter from Mr Pangman by Mr Longmoore which I shall preserve for you Honors perusal."

May 23
" Wednesday Wind SW a fresh Breeze weather clear and very warm. the Carpenter making shutters for the upper windows of the new house. myself busy Trading with the Indians. Mr Longmoore with the rest opening part of his Cargoe & drying the wet Furs. in the Evening one Canoe arrived from the northward with Furs to Trade. those are building Canoes a little way on this side the Cranberry carrying place. they also Inform me they are building two middling sized Canoes for Trade. the fishermen also arrived but have had no luck of Fish."

May 24
" Thursday Wind variable with clear sultry hot weather 'till Evening afterwards much thunder & rain. the people employed at the prefs & drying wet Furs. the Indians that came yesterday Traded & went away also the Fishermen."

May 25
" Friday Wind variable between SW & West light Breezes with clear warm weather. the People employed as yesterday fitted out several Indians with ammunition & sent them away in search of Provisions."

May 26
" Saturday Wind NW a fresh gale with small rain in the forenoon afterwards clear fine weather. the Carpenter making wedges for the Prefs, the rest employed packing furs. in the Evening received a little green moofe flesh from an Indian Hunter."

May 27
" Sunday Wind WNW a small Breeze with flying showers till the Evening afterwards blowed fresh NNW sent three men for some green flesh & in the Evening they returned with 200 lb. the rest employed at the Prefs; the scarcity of Provisions puts me under the necefsity of working on Sunday. finished packing the Furs received from Hudson's House. Quantity of each sort as follows Viz. Whole Parchment Beav. 2537, Half do. 1498, Coat & Scrap Beav. 462, Wolves 931, Foxes 1150, Quiquahatches 20, Martins ordinary 66, Damaged & Stage 8, Old cased Catt 5, Damaged & Stage 15, Old Otters 25, Cub do. 6, Bears cub 2, Weejacks 14, Jackashes 3. in the Evening Wm Walker & James Banks arrived with a tolerable good Canoe."

May 28
" Monday Wind northerly a Strong gale with cold raw cloudy weather. the people employed at the prefs & doing necefsary Duty within doors."

May 29
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a fresh Breeze first part cloudy latter part clear and Calm'd towards Evening. sent two down to the Fishing Place with an answer to Mr Pangman's Letter. Malchom Rofs & Nicholas Wishart making cloaths for the Men. the rest employed building the Canoe Shed & doing necefsary Jobbs within Doors."

" From Mr William Tomison to Mr Peter Pangman
Cumberland House May 29th 1781
Mr Pangman
Sir,
I always took you to be a saucy Insolent Man, But now you confirm it still the more to be such. Sir, do you think any Factor, who acts for the Honble Hudsons Bay Company such a Simpleton as to wait upon you on the road. No Sir, if you want any thing of me call on me at Cumberland House, or before the laws of England, where your Proceedings in this part of the Globe & mine will be Justified or condemned. what I did to Small the last Year was no more then what I would have done to you, had you come this road, so no more But remains. Yours Sir, when called upon.
William Tomison."

May 30
" Wednesday Wind variable in the South quarter fresh Breezes with clear weather two men making a net. the rest employed as yesterday. the two Men I sent away yesterday return'd also Isaac Batt & Charles Isham, but have had no luck of Fish. late in the Evening two Canoes arrived from above but has not brought any Thing receiv'd 4 Geese & 5 Ducks from Indian Hunters."

May 31
" Thursday Wind WSW light Breeze with clear warm weather. the people employed about various Duty also put up a new flag staff of 48 foot high."

June 1 1781
" Friday Wind variable weather much the same as yesterday the people employed pitching and repairing Canoes. at noon 12 Canoes of U.Basquiau Indians arrived part of which are come to afsist in carrying down Furs to York Fort they paid their Debts afterwards I gave them some Liquor and they got Drunk. late in the Evening those that went away Hunting arrived but have had no succefs."

June 2
" Saturday Wind ESE a fresh gale weather Cloudy with a little rain at times two men setting nets for Sturgeon. the rest repairing and pitching Canoes. Traded with the Indians that came Yesterday and paid several of them off to carry down furs to York Fort."

June 3
" Sunday Little wind variable 'till the Evening afterwards blowed hard from the northwest with thunder & rain sent off seven canoes with Furs for York Fort, also paid several more that I intend to send off tomorrow if weather permit."

June 4
" Monday Wind northerly a strong gale weather for the most part Cloudy two men repairing a small fishing net the rest doing odd Jobbs for themselves & getting ready for going down the Badnefs of the weather prevents me from sending them away. my provisions being short oblidges me to bring the men to Allowance of 7 lb pr Mefs a day. my whole stock is no more than 14 days full Allowance Included what is to serve them on their Journey down to York Fort."

June 5
" Tuesday Wind NNW a strong gale weather cloudy with snow most part of the Day. fitted the Men out ready for their Journey down to York Fort. in the Evening 12 Canoes arrived from the northward paid their Debts but had nothing over. these have brought two Canoes for Trade. to these I gave a Keg of Liquor as encouragement to carry furs down to York Fort."

" From Mr William Tomison to Mr Humphrey Marten
Cumberland House June 5th 1781
Kind Sir,
After a long and tedious pafsage of 49 Days we arrived at Cumberland House with the Goods all safe & in good Condition. a little Brandy tobacco & Ammunition excepted which was expended on the road in purchasing provisions and gave to Indians as encouragement to behave well. the goods that was sent by the sand fly & Old Growl came safe in a few days after my Arrival: on the 12th of September I sent off Mr Longmoore with 21 Men for Hudson's House which with the latenefs of the spring did not return 'till the latter end of May. by their late arrival and the want of Indians has prevented me from sending sooner. Sir I am very much surprised you did not send up a packet last Fall by the Indians that was down on the Arrival of their Honors Ship. Indeed Sir it is no wonder the Company's Servants in general is unwilling to come Inland, their usage in many particulars, not being equal to their Servitude. I am certain there is many packets sent to & again along the Bay, which is of no Consequence, & this place is neglected. which would be the best Settlement belonging to the Company was it well looked after. Sir the above do? not point at you.

By the Flesh Indian, Masinnekishek and some others that built four Canoes for Trade also small ones for themselves to afsist Mr Longmoore down with Furs from Hudson's House by these & some others I have sent 71 Bundles of Furs under the care of Wm Walker and four more Englishmen. these are going down the middle track.

Sir it gives me Infinite pleasure to Inform you of an Increase of Trade at both their Honors Inland Settlements. But on the other hand it grieves me to think the furs cannot be got down. though I am conscious to myself it is no neglect of mine. I received from Mr Longmoore 6887 made Beav. in furs consisting Chiefly of Whole and half parchment Wolves foxes & coat Beaver. and our Trade at this place upwards of 7,000 a great part of which will remain here all the summer. I have paid these Indians as Usual & have given them tobacco & Ammunition for nothing. I conclude wishing succefs to the Company's Affairs health & Happinefs to you and all under your Command and remain
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient Humble Servt.
William Tomison
P.S.
Mr Best Compliments to the Gentlemen of Your Mefs."

June 6
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday weather cloudy with rain all Day. paid off several of the Indians that came to carry down Furs. also several of those here before. about seven in the Evening the weather abated & two canoes went away."

June 7
" Thursday Wind between NW & north a fresh Breeze with Clear weather till noon afterwards calm'd. sent off William Walker & four more Englishmen with Furs for York Fort. also 15 Canoes of Indians part of which are going down the south track paid off several more which is go away tomorrow. the men employed at the prefs & repairing Canoes."

" From Mr William Tomison to Mr Humphrey Marten
Cumberland House June 7th 1781
Kind Sir,
By the Arrival of Escun Wescepunum & several more on the 5th Instant affords me a second Opportunity of sending down Furs, there is in this party 19 Canoes all Indians by whom I have sent 78 Bundles of furs under the care of Escun & Wescepunum, they being two trusty men. I have not sent any Englishmen that road as I cannot afford to send the Canoes light & when deep loaded with so much carrying Damages the Canoes & endangers the Mens lives. I am sorry to acquaint You that there will be above 100 Bundles of Furs left here all the summer when I have done to my Utmost. Sir I am of opinion that was the North River Indians & part of the Home guard Tribe to be employed to carry up Goods. a great part of the furs might be got down as it is impofsible for us to get Indians here to carry down the furs that may be Traded at their Honors Inland Settlements. Indeed Sir was we to be met on the road with Goods we could make two trips a year with pleasure and then probably no furs would lay over year at this Place. I conclude wishing succefs to the Company's Affairs Health and Happinefs to you & all under your Command & Remain
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
William Tomison
P.S.
These Indians are paid to the full besides a sufficient supply of Ammunition tobacco & many other small articles . My Best respects to the Gentlemen of your Mefs."

June 8
" Friday Wind variable light Breezes with clear warm weather. sent off 27 Canoes of English & Indians for York Fort the chief part of which is going down the North River track. finished repairing Canoes & getting ready for embarking tomorrow if pofsible as our provisions is scarce and but little prospect of any more Indians coming to afsist in carrying furs down. I propose to leave the following person's at Cumberland House when I embark for York Fort viz. George Huson being a sober Diligent young man is to be left in Charge. James Elphington Thomas Johnston John Irvin & Isaac Batt."

" From Mr William Tomison to Mr Humphrey Marten
Cumberland House June 8th 1781
Kind Sir,
Shagabinifscum being a very servicable man I thought it proper to employ him in Building Canoes and to get Indians to carry down furs for which as he as been been a Captain long ago. I have promised he should be used as such in every particular: Dear Sir I hope you will excuse my Boldnefs there being great necefsity for it as it is not an easy matter to get Indians to carry furs: Sir there is another Indian call'd the goose stone Indian who I have promised to be used as a second Captain in the room of that worthy Indian call'd the Day, who died on the pafsage up last year. he is a fine Indian for furs and has built a very good Canoe. no more at present But remains
Your most Obedient Humble Servt.
William Tomison"

" Received of Mr Tomison the Charge of Cumberland House with the Stores Trading Goods &c as pr Account Books.
Witnefs My Hand
George Hudson."



B.49/a/10

Home