This is a virtually complete transcription of the Cumberland House Journal 1776-77 by Alex Nicol
"Cumberland Houfe
1777
YF
A Journal of the most moft remarkable Tranfactions and Occurrences at Cumberland House from 4th July 1776 to 2d July 1777 kept by Mr Matthew Cocking"
[cover]
" By William Walker"
July 4 1776
" Thursday Wind variable clear Weather blows hard but at Noon Calm'd. Mr Cocking embarked on his Journey down Accompanied by 4 Canoes, One of which belonging to the House with two Men to afsist him on part of his way till he met with Indians on the Road to accompany Him down to the Fort. One Man employed doing odd Jobs."
July 5
" Friday Wind W Clear most part of the Day, but towards Evening NE a fresh Breeze Cloudy Weather. One Man employed Squaring Timber. One Canoe arrived here brought nothing; Saw eight more Canoes paddling up the Lake to the River Saskachiwan for to hunt Moofe and young wild Fowl."
July 6
" Saturday Wind variable Clear till Noon then Cloudy Weaher with squalls of Rain and Thunder. One Man employed as yesterday. One Canoe of Canadian Pedlers arrived with five Men & with one small Indian Canoe who Accompanied them, they informed me that John Cole was at the little fishing River below Us with a Canoe killing fish, these Men are going to afsist in building another House further up the River Saskachiwan."
July 7
" Sunday Wind SW Clear fine Weather."
July 8
" Monday Wind NE Clear hot Sultry Weather. One Man employed Squaring Timber. One Canoe arrived in the Morning which informed, that Mr Cocking was to be Accompanied by a few of their Indians a little on this Side the Cran-berry Carrying Place."
July 9
" Tuesday Wind variable sometimes Clear, other times Cloudy with very heavy squalls of Rain and Thunder. One Man employed as yesterday. the Canoe returned that embarked with Mr Cocking to afsist Him on part of his way till He met with Indians to accompany Him down to the Fort, they inform me that He is Accompanied by six Canoes."
July 10
" Wednesday Wind variable cloudy Weather with Showers of Rain and Thunder. The Men employed squaring Timber."
July 11
" Thursday Wind NW a Strong Gale Weather Cloudy. The Men employed turning over the Boards and Cleaning the Plantation. In the Evening one Canoe arrived, brought some Moofe Flesh."
July 12
" Friday Wind NW A Strong Gale Clear Weather. One Man Squaring Timber and two Men away Setting Nets. The Canoe that Arrived yesterday traded what they brought & went away."
July 13
" Saturday Wind W A middling breeze clear Weather. The Men returned with one Fish from the Nets. One Man employed squaring Timber. In the Evening one Canoe arrived brought nothing."
July 14
" Sunday Wind NW A Strong gale clear Weather. In the Evening one Canoe arrived here whch returned from War, brought a little Moofe Flesh & a few Skins which I traded."
July 15
" Monday Wind & Weather the same as yesterday but towards Noon it Calm'd. The Carpenter employed squaring Timber and two Men clearing the Plantation. In the Morning four Pedlers Men Arrived here accompanied by John Cole their Interpreter; The Canoe of Indians Arrived the 13th was belonging to them, which was hired to hunt Provisions for them on their Pafsage up to the new Settlement; they went away about two hours after their Arrival, and I saw Tobacco as good Brazil Tobacco with these People as Ours every bit. The Canoe that arrived from War last night went away having traded what they brought, they being cleansed before they came this Length, for the Pedlers are so very Numerous all over the Country, and now they expect Indians from War they move about and so way lays them. The new House which they are building is about three Days Paddle above their former Settlement; they have got such great quantities of Goods remaining. and now they are gone down to the great Carrying Place. They have Canoes and Men at every Place where Indians resort, so that a Indian cannot come from any part of the Country but they see of them."
July 16
" Tuesday Wind E Weather sometimes Clear other times Cloudy. Two Men I sent to look at the Nets returned with no Succefs. The Carpenter laying by with a cut Foot."
July 17
" Wednesday Wind variable cloudy Weather with rain at times. Two Men employed squaring Timber. The Carpenter doing odd Jobs about the House. In the Evening a Canoe Arrived with some dried Moofe flesh and Beat Meat which I traded from these. I sent two Men to look at the Nets for We are doubtful of the Indians over hauling them as they was to return that night and the Nets being in their Track; They returned about 3 OClock next morning with very little Succefs, supposing the Indians had over hauled them coming here."
July 18
" Thursday Wind NE fine clear Weather. The Carpenter & one Man Squaring Timber and one Man cutting up Roots & clearing the Ground to lay the foundation of the Cook Room."
July 19
" Friday Wind variable hot Sultry Weather. The Carpenter doing odd Jobs. Two Men sent to look at the Nets middling Succefs."
July 20
" Saturday Wind SE Cloudy Weather with Lightning Thunder and Rain. The Carpenter and Men employed laying the Foundation of the Cook Room."
July 21
" Sunday Wind SW Weather cloudy a very strong Gale. One Man and me went to look at the Nets, but returned without any Succefs, thinking that Indians had given them attendance in the Night."
July 22
" Monday Wind variable Weather sometimes Clear other times Cloudy. The Carpenter employed Squaring Timber. Sent two Men to take up the Nets, they returned with a little Succefs."
July 23
" Tuesday Wind W blowed a fresh Breeze Weather Clear. The Carpenter and men squaring Pieces for the Cook Room. One Canoe Arrived here brought Nothing."
July 24
" Wednesday Wind E Calm till noon than Cloudy Weather. The Carpenter and two Men building the cook Room and myself mending the Nets. The Indians laying so close to Our fishing Place that We cannot pretend to set them, for they would be of no Service to Us without We was to tend them, & the Compliment of Men being so few that they cannot be spared."
July 25
" Thursday Wind variable sometimes Clear other times Cloudy Weather. The Carpenter and men building the new Cook Room. Two Tents of Indians Tenting about a Mile below the House."
July 26
" Friday Wind variable cloudy Weather with Thunder & Rain. The Carpenter and one Man Squaring Timber. One Man Cleaning about the House."
July 27
" Saturday Wind W Cloudy Weather with Rain & Thunder. The Carpenter & Men building the Cook Room."
July 28
" Sunday Wind variable Weather hot Sultry and Cloudy."
July 29
" Monday Wind variable Weather clear and hot till towards Evening then Cloudy. The Carpenter and one Man building the Cook Room. Myself & one Man setting two fishing Nets about 3 miles below the House."
July 30
" Tuesday Wind WbN A Middling fresh Breeze clear Weather but towards Noon blowed very hard. The Carpenter and one Man building the Cook Room. One man went off to the Nets in the morning but the Day turning out so Windy He could not return."
July 31
" Wednesday Wind WbN A very strong Tempest of Wind & Weather. The two Men employed the same as yesterday. One Man still Weather bound."
Aug. 1 1776
" Thursday Wind NW Weather Cloudy blowed fresh in the Morning but in the Afternoon Calmed. I sent two Men to look after the Man that was Weather bound, They all three returned with middling Succefs of Fish. at Noon arrived five Canoes, brought some Moofe Flesh Beat Meat, and two or three Skins which I traded."
Aug. 2
" Friday Wind W Weather clear a middling Strong Gale but towards Evening it Calm'd. The Carpenter & two men building & Squaring Timber."
Aug. 3
" Saturday Wind W fine Calm Weather. The Carpenter & two Men building the Cook Room, and in the Afternoon I sent two to the Nets, they returned with very little Succefs and they brought one of them Home being very much damaged with the last Winds. The five Canoes that arrived on Thursday went away; and in the Afternoon one Canoe arrived, brought a little Moofe Flesh which I traded and they went away."
Aug. 4
" Sunday Wind NW a Strong Gale Weather cloudy with Thunder & Rain."
Aug. 5
" Monday Wind NW A Strong gale Weather Cloudy with Small showers of Rain. The Carpenter and two men building the Cook Room. myself mending the Fishing Net lately taken up."
Aug. 6
" Tuesday Wind WbN A fine pleasent Breeze Someimes Clear other times Cloudy Weather. The Carpenter and two Men building the Cook Room, and two Men setting a Net in the Afternoon."
Aug. 7
" Wednesday Calm clear Weather. The Carpenter and one Man employed as yesterday. One Man went to the Nets no Succefs. Six Canoes of Indians Arrived, brought a little Moose Flesh, & one Canoe arrived from two Tents of Indians at a little River below Us, informed me that they have had but little Succefs in hunting Moofe, But as far as I can find they traded most of their Flesh with the Pedlers that came their way this Spring."
Aug. 8
" Thursday Wind W A middling fresh Breeze Clear Weather. The Carpenter and one Man Employed as yesterday. One Man I sent to the Net no Succefs. three Canoes of the? Indians that are Tenting here went off a hunting a Crofs the Lake."
Aug. 9
" Friday Wind WNW A middling fresh Breeze Clear Weather. The Carpenter and one Man putting up the Couple Backs in the Cook Room. Myself with one Man went to the Nets, returned with very little Succefs. The Indians that went away returned with one Moofe which they had killed."
Aug. 10
" Saturday Wind NW A Strong Breeze clear Weather. The Carpenter and one Man building the Cook Room. One Man smoak drying some Moofe flesh for Preservation. At noon seven Canoes Arrived belonging to the Basquio Indians that are at the Factory, brought very little with them. In the Evening two Men went to the Nets but returned with very little Succefs."
Aug. 11
" Sunday Wind NE Fine moderate Weather."
Aug. 12
" Monday Wind E fine calm clear Weather. The Carpenter employed Boarding between the end of the Cook Room & the Stockades; Two Men I sent to take up a Net for it was damaged with the last Winds. At noon arrived four Canoes which brought some dried Meat and Beat meat which I traded."
Aug. 13
" Tuesday Wind variable calm cloudy Weather very hot and Sultry. The Carpenter and two Men Squaring Timber."
Aug. 14
" Wednesday Wind variable with fine fresh Breezes Clear Weather. The Carpenter Squaring Timber. Two Men I sent to take up the Net; The Indians that arrived the Twelth and some of them that were Tenting here before went away, and at Noon arrived four Canoes more, that brought some dried Moofe Flesh & Beat Meat. This Day my stock of Liquor being ended. The Indians left off trading and were ready to have torn me to Pieces thinking I was deceiving them, till I let a Couple of them have admittance to see, and then they hardly would believe but what We had some buried under the Ground; If it was not for the Liquor and Tobacco We should not get a bit of victuals to put in Our Mouths, but what We would have caught ourselves."
Aug. 15
" Thursday Wind NW A fresh Breeze clear Weather. The Carpenter laying by with a Sore Arm. Two Men cleaning the yard and smoke drying some Moose Flesh. At Noon arrived six Canoes belonging to Basquio, brought Nothing, but only came to wait till the arrival of the Indians from the Factory for to get a Drink with them."
Aug. 16
" Friday Wind Sly Fine moderate Weather. The Carpenter laying by of a sweld Arm. Two Men yewing Timber. At noon Arrived Twenty Canoes of Basquio Indians, waiting for the Arrival of the Indians from the Factory that belongs to their Place of Resortment."
Aug. 17
" Saturday Wind W fine clear Weather. The Men employed as yesterday. The Carpenter laying by with a Sweld Arm. In the Evening Arrived a Canoe from the Factory, brought one Bundle & some Hatchets Loofe, and that Bundle He brought has been Opened. He said he had a Letter but he had lost it, so I Judge by that he had made away with some of the Goods; He informed me that their was twelve Englishmen a Coming up with other Indians & said that the Rivers and Lakes were very shallow of Water."
Aug. 18
" Sunday Wind SW Cloudy hot Sultry Weather. At noon arrived one Canoe, brought a little Deers flesh which I Traded."
Aug. 19
" Monday Wind NW Cloudy Weather with a heavy Rain. The Carpenter and two Men laying the foundation of the victualing Office."
Aug. 20
" Tuesday Wind NW Cloudy Weather. the Carpenter and two men building the new Victualing Shed. seven Tents of Indians laying waiting here for the Arrival of the Indians from the Fort to get a Drink of Liquor with them."
Aug. 21
" Wednesday Wind E Cloudy Weather with Rain. The Carpenter and one Man building the new victualing Shed, & one Man digging a Celler in It. There are seven Tents of Indians upon our Plantation most of them belonging to the Captain that is afsisting in Carrying furrs down and Goods up: Likewise they are of very great Expences and seem to say as much, as if We laid to their Options for to do as they pleased, and still saying that the Frenchmen gave so and so and We gave them Nothing: I do afsure you Gentlemen I should not like to be left in Care without a better Company of Men another year; And I do all that lays in my Power to Please them in Moderation. But if I was for to give every thing that was in the Warehouse It would Just be the same; They would still want more."
Aug. 22
" Thursday Wind NE Blows fresh Cloudy Weather with Rain. The Carpenter doing odd Jobs in the House. Two Men cleaning the Cabbins and putting them to Rights."
Aug. 23
" Friday Wind W Cloudy with small Mefsling Rain. The Carpenter and one Man Squaring Timber. One Man Digging the Celler. At noon Arrived one Canoe which brought a little Moofe Flesh and a few Skins, which I traded."
Aug. 24
" Saturday Wind NE A middling strong gale with very heavy Rain Lightning & Thunder. The Carpenter & one Man Squaring Timber. One Man Digging the Celler. The Canoe that Arrived yesterday went away."
Aug. 25
" Sunday Wind variable clear fine Weather. eight Canoes arrived here in the Morning, brought some Moofe flesh, and because the Liquor was done they would not Trade any but a little for Tobacco, so they feasted it all away. In the Evening arrived another Canoe, brought a few Skins, which I traded for Tobacco, for that is the Chief they run upon when the above mentioned Article is done, for they get Plenty of necefsaries from the frenchmen for very little or nothing for when the Pedlers they come Here in the fall they are so very short of victuals that they give a Blanket for a Dog, and they have such great Stocks of Liquor that they give it away for very little or nothing at all."
Aug. 26
" Monday Wind E A middling fresh Breeze clear Weather. The Carpenter & one Man Building the new victualing Shed. One Man Digging a Celler in it. In the Evening Arrived ten Canoes, three of which Arrived from the Factory brought 6 Bundles 1 Cag of Powder & two bags of Shot. But what they contain I cannot Justly say."
Aug. 27
" Tuesday Wind E Cloudy Weather with Thunder & Rain. The Carpenter and Men employed as yesterday."
Aug. 28
" Wednesday Wind E Clear fine Weather. The Carpenter and one Man Building the victualing Office. One Man squaring Timber. Two Canoes arrived brought nothing."
Aug. 29
" Thursday Wind variable foggy Weather, But towards Noon Clear. The Carpenter & one Man employed as yesterday. Myself & one Man overhauling the Provisions. In the Evening Arrived five Canoes, brought a great deal of victuals. But the most of it they will feast away except a little they Trade for Tobacco."
Aug. 30
" Friday Wind NE Sometimes Clear other times Cloudy. The Carpenter and two Men employed building and Squaring Timber. In the Morning Arrived three Canoes, brought a little Moose Flesh which they traded. In the Evening Mr William Tomoson and the Men that Accompanied Him Arrived all well."
" By Mr William Tomison"
Aug. 31
" Saturday Wind SE Cloudy with Rain. The Men employed Watching the Gates in case the Indians should be troublesome, as they was Trading a Little Liquor most part of the Day. Myself and two or three Men overhauling the Trading Goods and Provisions. yesterday Evening I gave the Indians a good Drink that came out with Us, & others here before traded a Small quantity of Provisions. Twelve Tents now upon our Plantation which were waiting for Our Arrival to get a Drink from the Rest, for the greatest part were Basquio Indians."
Sept. 1 1776
" Sunday Wind W A Middling stiff Breeze Sometimes Cloudy other times Clear. Busy in Opening the Goods & found them all in good Condition."
Sept. 2
" Monday Wind variable Clear fine Weather. The Carpenter & two men building the victualing Shed. Six men making a Limekiln. One Man repairing the Nets. Two Men and Myself packing up a few Furrs to be sent Down to the Fort. The home guard Indians that were laying here I served them out Powder & Shot and sent them a hunting, they had middling Succefs; & some of the Indians that was Tenting here went away Hunting."
Sept. 3
" Tuesday Wind N Cloudy Weather. The Carpenter & two Men building the new House, the rest building a Limekiln, & one Man making a Net; Myself fitting out the Indians and they going away to kill Provisions. - The North River and Home Indians that Afsisted in bringing Goods up Embarked this Day for York Fort with three Bundles I sent Down with them."
Sept. 4
" Wednesday Wind variable with cloudy Rainy Weather. No Working without Doors. Two Men making a Sturgeon Net. The rest about necefsary Duty without Doors. A few Geese & Ducks from an Indian Man."
Sept. 5
" Thursday Wind NE A very strong Gale Cloudy Weather with Rain at times. The Carpenter and one Man making a Bench. Two Men making and mending Nets. The rest at the Limekiln. I trusted several Indians Debt and they Pitched away for their Winter Quarters."
Sept. 6
" Friday Wind WbN Weather Cloudy with squalls of Rain. The Carpenter & Men doing Necefsary Jobs in Doors."
Sept. 7
" Saturday Wind variable with cloudy moderate Weather. Carpenter and one Man employed making a lime Screan. The rest breaking lime Stone and getting Wood for the Limekiln. fitted Charles Isham out with a Sufficient quantity of Goods & sent Him away to the Buffalo Country to encourage the Indians to come down to Trade. Also to get what Canoes he pofsible can. A few Geese & Ducks from the Indians."
Sept. 8
" Sunday Wind SW Clear moderate Weather. Several of the Indians Pitched away."
Sept. 9
" Monday Wind WNW Sometimes clear other times Cloudy. The Carpenter and two Men Building. Two Men Sawing. the rest working at the Limekiln and Carrying a few Stones. Indians Pitched away. Three Tents of Indians upon our Plantation."
Sept. 10
" Tuesday Wind W A fresh Breeze Clear at times. The Carpenter & two Men employed as yesterday. Sent two Men a fishing. The rest Carrying up Stones for the Chymneys."
Sept. 11
" Wednesday Wind variable with Clear fine Weather. two Men a hunting, poor Luck no Geese flying, the rest employed as before."
Sept. 12
" Thursday Wind & Weather as yesterday. The Carpenter & Sawyers employed as yesterday. The rest of the Men carrying Stones & mud; drawed the Limekiln. In the Evening arrived one Canoe brought some Fish Moofe Flesh and a few Geese for which I Paid them."
Sept. 13
" Friday Wind & Weather as yesterday. The Carpenter & Sawyers employed as yesterday. The rest of the Men pulling down the House Chymney. Fisher Men came Home, but with very little Succefs. At Noon Arrived Robert Longmore & Malchom Rofs who were accompanied with six Canoes, which brought 13 Bundles of goods and two Casks & Powder which we Opened & overhauled and found them Answer the Invoice except part that was returned by them to the Factory, all in good Condition. At Noon Arrived 12 Canoes brought a little Moofe flesh which I traded."
"A Coppy of a Letter Rec'd from Mr Hump'y Marten"
" York Fort August 1st 1776
Mr Will. Tomison
Sir,
The arrival of Mr Matthew Cocking with the English and a Party of Indians on the 28th July gives me an Opportunity of sending you a large addition to your present Stock of Trading Goods &c. I need not repeat to you that the greatest frugality should be used in the Expenditure of every article under your care. these Goods are entrusted to the Care of Robert Longmore, and as Mr Cocking informed me, Brandy should be got up in as large quantities as pofsible; I have sent with Him to prevent Embezzlement, John Easty, Malchom Rofs, William Flatt and James Lisk. But as not one of these persons except Longmore knows how to Steer a Canoe, I was obliged to engage two home Indians, viz, Go:cum:a:soo:kee and Ma:the:got for that Service. - As these Men now sent you, with those you have already, (yourself included) amount to Nineteen men, you will do well to employ some of the most active and discreet of them during the proper Seasons, in visiting the various tribes of Indians to Trade with you, or if Pofsible to come to York Fort. Robert Longmore will inform you of the ill usage He received from one Mr Henery Mr Frobisher and some of their People; had not Longmore been by himself it is probable they would not have proceeded to such lengths: I therefore advise you on your receiving intelligence of the A.thuppiscau or any other tribes of Indians coming your way to Trade, that you immediately dispatch not lefs than Six men (but more if they can be spared) to meet such Indians to Trade with. the Men you send should be advised to be careful not to say or do any thing that could be construed into personal abuse or insult, but yet be firm and steady in protecting those Indians that are willing to Trade with you, or have given their furrs to the Care of your Men. It may be proper to inform the Master Traders; that the Honourable Hudson's Bay Company will undoubtedly protect their Servants from Insults and their property from being invaded by all lawful Means. Robert Longmore having informed me that He is almost Master of Canoe building. you will give Him all necefsary afsistance and proper encouragement in getting as many built as pofsible; and you may afsure the Companys Servants in general, that for every good large Canoe built by Englishmen (the Persons that build them) shall receive ten Shillings above their Current wages. I have according to their desire, sent the following Goods for James Batt and James Spence viz. James Batt Sugar 12 lb Soap 2 lb Tobacco Roll 8 1/2 lb and 2 Dozen Waisted Buttons; and for Spence 5 1/2 lb Tobacco Roll. but as to the other Articles wrote for they may be much better Supplied at the House. These Goods will be carried to the next years Account. The Men's Debts being finially closed. It would be proper to open and Examine the Bundles of Cloth and all sorts of Goods that can be damaged by Rain or Leaking of the Canoes but as to the Tobacco it will be better not to open it till wanted for Trade. I have made the same bargin with these Indians I did with those that went up with you Viz. Six Beaver for each Bundle at this Place and three Beaver for each when delivered to you; as to the Home Indians they have no Demand on you yet certainly will expect something by way of Friendship. Your discretion and their behaviour must determine how much; In the whole from me each home Indian is to receive 50 Beaver, the greatest part of it will not be paid untill their return. - Mr Cocking informs me that Too toose wanted to smoak the Calimut on bringing some Geese to the House which he did not think proper to Comply with; I am intirely of his opinion, and advise you to smoak no formal Pipe with the Natives except for Trade in goods. Mr Cocking also says that the Natives will send Spies to pry into your Situation in regard to Provisions. If they find you in want their demands are extravagant. If other ways moderate; you will do well therefore to appear always well stocked tho you should not be so in reality. The Brandy now sent you (as before) is all under the Care of Englishmen and home Indians; The Invoice will shew you what Bundles belong to each Canoe; Robert Longmore hath with Him an account of the number of Bundles delivered to each Indian, tho not of the particular Packages. Two Guns lent by Mr Cockings viz. one a 4 Foot Gun belonging to the Company to Wee-chef-cow-we-coppo, or Spottys Son, the other a Steel mounted Gun Mr Cockings property to be delivered to Andrew Garret lent to Wee-sippe-num, which you will please to Stop before you pay the Indians for the Goods they bring you. These Indians (as you know those before did) have received very great encouragement to be deligent and faithful, should they Prove otherways inform me of it, and do you Sir use them accordingly, Sheecocks brother named Jackapish had a very bad Character, to guard against Him will prevent fraud and imposition. - Mr Cocking on his Arrival declared, that Mamukathinnue and the rest of the Indians that brought his Furrs to the Fort were paid by him for that Service whch you know they pofsitively denied (and the Englishmen then with them could not prove), and in consequence of which they were paid for that Service at the Fort; To prevent such imposition in future, you will be particularly careful to send me an Account whether you have Paid them at the House or I am to pay them (and how much) at the Fort. - Wishing all pofsible Succefs to the Company's affairs and Health and Happinefs to you and all under your Command.
I am your sincere Friend
Humphrey Marten."
Sept. 14
" Saturday Wind & Weather as yesterday. the Carpenter and one Man finished the victualing Shed all but Boarding it. Two men Sawing. The rest pulling down the Chymney. I trusted some of the Indians Debt & Paid the Indians for bringing the Goods up."
Sept. 15
" Sunday Wind S Clear Weather. Sent two Indians a hunting, kild 9 Geese. Trusted Indians Debt and they went away."
Sept. 16
" Monday Wind NNE A brisk Gale with cloudy Weather and Rain at times. Carpenter & one Man fixing the door Jams of the Victualing Shed, two sawing boards for ditto. The rest employed a building the Chymney and Skreaning the Lime; Also overhauling the fishing Nets, no luck of Fish. At noon two Canoes of Cawenetaw Indians came, brought a few Summer Skins, 16 Geese from an Indian Man."
Sept. 17
" Tuesday Wind N with a fresh gale till noon Afterwards clear moderate Weather. The Carpenter & one Man about necefsary Jobs, the rest employed as yesterday. dispatched the Home Indians for the Fort that Afsisted Robert Longmore up with the Goods; One of the Indians that came yesterday informed me that I had looked in the wrong Place for the Goods put up by Mr Matthew Cocking & that Charles Isham did not know where it was laid, which induced me to engage the Indian with William Walker to go in Search of it. A few Pike and Pearch from the Nets no Sturgeon to be got."
" Copy of a Letter from Mr William Tomison to Mr Humph'y Marten"
" Cumberland House Sept. 15th .76
Good Sir,
Your Packet came safe to hand the 13th of September. Seven Canoes with Robert Longmore Malchom Rofs and two home Indians who accompanied them brought the Goods safe, and in good Condition, except 3 Kegs of Liquor Embezzlement by the natives for they seed most part of the Port nelson River Indians on their pafsage up, which was of great trouble to them. - The two young Indians that accompanied Robert Longmore behaved very well. - Our Provisions being very Scant I have sent off Charles Isham along with the Natives and shall endeavour to send as many away as I can pofsibly spare for there is very little Likelyhood of victuals coming in this Fall, for the frenchmen has got such great quantitys of Goods remaining that the Indians don't care to come a bit out of their Road to Trade with Us, when they get such great encouragement from the Frenchmen for Provisions nearer hand.
As the Compliment of Men being Sixteen Hands, I shall do my best endeavours to forward the Companys Trade, when the time & Seasons of the year Permits. - I shall endeavour to get as many Indians down with Furrs to Trade at York Fort as pofsible I can. And for giving the Gentlemen Pedlers any abusive Language, I shall discharge my Men from having any Correpondance with Men or Mafter, not more then if a civil Question is asked of no consequence if thought proper for to return an Answer, But not to interfair with the Companys affairs.
I intend to send Robert Longmore away and a Man or two with Him, when time permits that Indians Arrive that I can fit them out. - Myself & William Walker opened the Packages and found every thing for to Answer the Invoice sent up. - Sir I return you thanks for your good caution in informing me in bringing up such customs as Smoaking with Indians for small quantities of Provisions or Summer furrs: William Walker that was about Mr Cockings hands and with his Afsistance I hope We shall do very well. - & as for the Indians sending spies there is no Indian that shall get admittance into my Warehouse to see what Stock of Provisions is remaining. The Guns Mr Cocking lent were returned safe; and the Steel mounted Gun was delivered to Andrew Garret According to Order. Wee-see-pe-num and his young Men behaved very well. William Walker informed me that every Indian that went away from the House to afsist in Carrying Furrs Down was paid Here, so that they had no Demands. But to caution against any such imposition I shall always let you know with the Bearers. -
Escon met with Weeseepenum on his Journey down, and He perswaded him to turn Back and to stay here & Winter with Him, which was much against my inclination; I have trusted Him 14 1/2 Beaver in Debt, which if he should alter his mind and go down that you may Stop his Debt. I have nothing more to add but Conclude wishng all pofsible Succefs to the Company's affairs with Health and Happinefs to attend you and all under your Command. And so remain
Your most obedient & Humble Servant
William Tomison
P.S. Pray remember me to the Gentlemen of your Mefs."
Sept. 18
" Wednesday Wind variable with clear moderate Weather. Carpenter making a Chest to put Trading goods in. sent two Men to bring home the Sturgeon Nets. fitted out James Batt and Robert Davey out and sent them away with the Basquio Indians to be supported, and to endeavour to stop them going to the Pedlers. Robert Longmore making Woodwork for a Canoe. The rest employed a Sawing & building. some fresh Moose flesh from an Indian Man."
Sept. 19
" Thursday Wind NW with clear moderate Weather till noon then squally with Rain. The Men employed as yesterday. A few Pike and Pearch from the Nets. sent the Indians all off in search of Provisions."
Sept. 20
" Friday Wind NNW And Squally Weather with Rain at times. Carpenter & one Man a hunting, killed three Geese, very few Geese flying. The rest employed as before. a few Fish from the Nets."
Sept. 21
" Saturday Wind WNW A Strong Gale with rain at times. Carpenter & one Man finished the Roof of the victualing Shed. Two Men Sawing Boards for the Cook Room Roof. The rest building the Chymney and doing other necefsary Jobs. A few Fish from the Nets."
Sept. 22
" Sunday Wind NW A Strong Gale with Cloudy Weather."
Sept. 23
" Monday Wind SE A moderate breeze with clear Weather. four Men a hunting. Two Men repairing the Sturgeon Nets. The rest a building the Chymney. Eight Fish from the Nets & seven Geese from the Hunters. One Canoe came, brought a few Summer Skins and a little dried Moofe Flesh."
Sept. 24
" Tuesday Wind variable from E to W with a fresh Gale Sometimes Cloudy & sometimes Clear. The Men employed as yesterday. The Indians that came last Night went away. three Canoes came brought some dried Moofe flesh & a few Geese. William Walker returned, the Indian being unwilling to proceed, and being attended with bad Weather made them to return without Succefs."
Sept. 25
" Wednesday Wind NW A Strong Gale Cloudy Weather with a little Snow at times. The Men employed a building the Chymney and doing other necefsary Jobs. the Men that went a hunting yesterday returned, brought 6 Geese & 8 Ducks. One Canoe came, brought some Moofe flesh and fat. The Indians that came last Night traded some Meat and got Drunk."
Sept. 26
" Thursday Wind SE With clear moderate Weather. Carpenter and one Man a Boarding the roof of the Cook Room. Two Men attending the Fishing Nets. The rest about the Chymney. The Indians went away. A few Fish to Day."
Sept. 27
" Friday Wind ESE A Brisk gale and cloudy with Snow in the Evening. Carpenter & one Man making the victualing Shed Door. Two Men Sawing. Robert Longmore making woodwork for Canoes. The rest a building the Chymney and attending the Nets, 12 Fish to Day."
Sept. 28
" Saturday Wind variable from ESE to NE and Cloudy Weather with Snow. Carpenter and one Man about the Doors. The rest about necefsary Jobs within Doors."
Sept. 29
" Sunday Wind NNW a fresh Gale with clear Weather. Read Divine Service for the Day. One Canoe came brought some Meat and a few Beaver Skins. A few Fish from the Nets."
Sept. 30
" Monday variable with with moderate cloudy Weather. Carpenter & one Man finished the Doors. Robert Longmore making Woodwork for a Canoe, the rest building the Chymney and drying Meat &c. Two Canoes came, brought some fresh Moofe Flesh. The Indians that came yesterday went away, a few fish from the Nets. an Indian came here which I take for a spy as he was very inquisitive what Indians had been here and where they had gone to: He informed of leaving the Pedlers a few Days ago some Distance off, and that they are 25 Canoes all going up Saskachiwan River."
Oct. 1 1776
" Tuesday Wind WNW A fresh gale with cloudy Weather. Carpenter & one Man edging Boards for the victualing Shed floor. Two Men Sawing. The rest employed as yesterday. The Indians went away. a few fish from the Nets."
Oct. 2
" Wednesday Wind & Weather as yesterday. Carpenter & one man laying the victualing Shed floor. The rest employed as before. a few Fish from the Nets."
Oct. 3
" Thursday Wind variable with fine clear Weather. Two Men a hunting but returned without Succefs, no Geese flying; The rest finished building the Mens Chimney and did other necefsary Jobs. a few fish from the Nets."
Oct. 4
" Friday Wind NE moderate breeze with cloudy Weather. Carpenter and one Man finished the victualing Shed floor. The rest about necefsary Duty. Two Canoes came, brought a little dried Meat. At noon arrived two Canoes of Canadian Pedlers, with whom Accompanied five Masters & Isaac Batt. He would have willingly Stayed here, but Mr Frobisher would not consent to let Him go till the Spring, to which I made reply, that if he did not come to stay now I would have no concern with Him in the Spring, for to think upon it and come now if ever he intended to come into this Service. They embarked in the Evening."
Oct. 5
" Saturday Wind N Cloudy Weather. The Carpenter & one Man about Necefsary Jobs. The rest carrying up Stones for the Cook Room chimney. two Canoes Arrived in the Evenng from the Northward, brought a little Moofe Flesh: Also fitted out Robert Longmore, James Spence and Malchom Rofs and sent them away up Saskachiwan River. there have been no Indians here from that quarter this Fall and there is no likelyhood of any to come, as the Pedlers are all got up so soon, which has induced me to send my Men away by themselves as Robert Longmore knows the Road."
Oct. 6
" Sunday Wind variable with moderate cloudy Weather. Read Divine Service as usual a few Fish from the Nets."
Oct. 7
" Monday Wind NW A fresh gale with cloudy Weather. Carpenter & one Man laying the upper floor. The rest building the Cookroom Chymney and attending the Nets. 16 Pike and Pearch to Day. 12 Canoes came from the Northward four of which have been at War. They have brought a few Furrs but the others brought no Furrs and very little Meat."
Oct. 8
" Tuesday Wind N A Strong Gale with thick Snowing Weather. Carpenter & one Man employed as yesterday. The rest employed making Wooden Pegs for the Floor and other necefsary Jobs within Doors. Traded with the Indians."
Oct. 9
" Wednesday Wind W A middling strong Gale Cloudy most part of the day But at Night clear with a very hard frost. The Carpenter and one man employed as yesterday. Sent two Men to take up the Nets which returned with middling Succefs. The rest employed Spriging and setting up Firewood. At noon arrived Two Canoes of Pedlers which are going to reside at Mr Frobishers old Settlement in the Beaver Lake; the Masters name Captain Jute. Two Canoes of Indians Arrived, brought some Moofe flesh Geese and a few Beaver Skins."
Oct. 10
" Thursday Wind W very cold freezing Weather great quantities of Ice driving in the Lake. The Carpenter & one Man employed as yesterday. The rest of the Men Spriging & setting up Firewood the Indians that Arrived last Night I traded what they brought and they embarked, and the frenchmen went also."
Oct. 11
" Friday Wind SW Cloudy Weather with great quantities of Ice Driving in the Lake. The Carpenter & one Man employed as yesterday. The rest of the Men Carrying in Wood and setting it up at the Pile."
Oct. 12
" Saturday Wind E Blowing fresh with Cloudy Weather. The Carpenter & one Man putting Parchment on the Windows. Three Men pointing the seams of the House, and the rest cleaning the yard. after Dark Mr Cocking with Magnus Sclator and James Wafs arrived, accompanied by four Canoes of North River Indians."
"By Mr Matthew Cocking"
Oct. 13
" Sunday Wind variable cloudy mild Weather. This Day I examined the remains of Trading Goods Stores and Provisions, and found them agree with the Account received from William Tomison. I gave the Indians who brought us up Supplies of Ammunition & Tobacco to carry them away, and gave them a Packet for Mr Marten. A few Indians (6 Canoes) before & now here."
" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Hump. Marten"
" Cumberland House 13th Oct. 1776
Good Sir,
We arrived here last night having been much detained with Ice and Wind in our Pafsage up. The Indian called Cotebethatom I was obliged to leave the 5th Instant He refusing to proceed from his family We met with. In his room I employed his Son in Law (Uekimow Pethasew) and have paid him here. The old Man called Ketahow I left on the 1st Instant also; begging my consent to be left with his family, saying he feared they might be distrefsed, particularly if he should be stopped with the Winter on his return: As this Man had realy a large family of small Children I consented to his staying; He was very active & careful whilst with me; All the rest behaved very well and performed the Journey chearfully. I have given them Small Supplies of Ammunition & Tobacco and will send them off immediately for their own parts; but I expect the Winter will stop their proceeding far in Canoes. - I have according to your instructions examined the remains of Trading Goods Stores and Provisions & found them to agree with the account received from William Tomison. The Provisions in hand are much lefs than was expected. The Indians not being Succefsful in Hunting. and few Geese have been brought in, the early Northwest Winds with Snow having drove them off; And Ice driving along shore has obliged the Nets to be taken up. William Tomison has very prudently sent off Six Men with the Natives to be Supported, on finding Provisions come in Slowly; However I hope as soon as the Lake sets in, We shall have great Supplies from our Nets as last Winter, so that there is no fear of Want. - I am informed by William Tomison, that Twenty three Canoes of Pedlers are gone up the River Saskachiwan, and two are gone to the Beaver Lake; These I met but would not permit my Indians to speak them. The Natives since inform that two Canoes of those gone above are to come down to the Beaver Lake in the Spring: Two Canoes are left below at Mithquogamew River. These as the Pedlers informed with the aforementioned, are all that came up. The disturbances in America having put their Affairs in some disorder; That Montreal was retaken by the Kings forces last may. I shall conclude, wishing you & yours every Felicity.
And remain Good Sir,
Your obliged & obedient Servant.
Matthew Cocking
P.S. Some of the Grafs river Indians who went to War last Summer returned lately. They brought but little with them."
Oct. 14
" Monday Calm cloudy mild Weather. The Indians that Arrived with me set off from here. The Men employed, Four building the Cook room Chimney. Carpenter & one Man laying the upper floor and two Men making Pegs for Binding it down with, & sent two men to set a Net, these returned in the Evening with only two Pike."
Oct. 15
" Tuesday Wind NE Weather cloudy with Snow at times. the remainder of the Indians (6 Canoes) went away; they propose to hunt to the Westward of this Lake for furrs and Provisions and promised to bring in Provisions in the Winter. I sent two of my men (William Omen & John Draver?) along with them to be supported. The Carpenter & one Man laying the House upper flooring, four men building the Cook Room Chymney, and two more serving them with materials. sent William Tomison & William Walker to the Nets recieved Two Pike and two Tickameg. - In the Evening four Canoes Arrived who sometimes since went up Saskachiwan River to Hunt Provisions; They brought nothing, pretending they have had no Succefs but as they owned having seen the Pedlers as they pafsed, suppose they got what Provisions were in hand from them."
Oct. 16
" Wednesday Wind North variable mild Weather. One Canoe of Indians went away. The other three are belonging to a Sick Superanuated Leader and family; They propose to Winter here saying they cannot carry him about. I have discouraged their staying here, telling them they must not expect any supplies of food from me in the Winter if they should be distrefsed, but without effect, saying they hoped to provide themselves with food, and that they could not move about in the Winter. The Carpenter and one Man employed laying the upper flooring of the House and five Men employed about the Cook Room Chimney & one Man Net making. William Tomison & William Walker went to the Nets. set another small Meshed Net & brought home 5 Pike."
Oct. 17
" Thursday Wind variable clear Weather. The Men employed as yesterday. six Pike two Tickameg & one Pearch from the Nets."
Oct. 18
" Friday Wind SW clear Weather. A few fish from the Nets."
Oct. 19
" Saturday Wind as yesterday cloudy Weather. Seven Pike and other Fish from the Nets."
Oct. 20
" Sunday Wind variable clear Weather. Read Divine Service."
Oct. 21
" Monday Wind South clear Weather. Six Sturgeon from the Nets. The Carpenter & one man laying the upper Floor. One Man Net making & five Men building the Cook Room Chimney."
Oct. 22
" Tuesday Wind West Weather cloudy with Rain at times. The Men employed as yesterday."
Oct. 23
" Wednesday Wind & Weather variable a fresh Gale at times prevented our going to the Nets. William Omen and an Indian arrived with Moofe & Beaver flesh which I Traded & they again went away."
Oct. 24
" Thursday Wind NW A fresh Breeze untill the Evening when it calmed & I sent William Tomison & William Walker to the Nets from which we recieved ten Sturgeon and other fish, took up the small meshed Nets to mend. The Men finished the Cook Room Chymney & laying the upper flooring of the House."
Oct. 25
" Friday Wind the same cloudy Weather with small Snow at times. Carpenter and one Man repairing the Roof. four Men carrying away Rubbish from within the Stockades, one Man clearing some Ground for Gardening in the Spring, and one Man Net making."
Oct. 26
" Saturday Wind variable clear Weather. Ice along shore. The Carpenter planing Boards for Partitions &c. One Man laying the Cook Room floor.The rest employed about necefsary Works as yesterday. four Sturgeon from the Nets."
Oct. 27
" Sunday Wind & Weather variable & mild. Read Divine Service."
Oct. 28
" Monday Wind SE clear Weather. The Carpenter planing Boards for partitions. One Man laying the Cook Room floor. One man clearing Ground for Gardening in the Spring. Two Men Net making and three Men clearing away Rubbish from within the Stockades. Eight Sturgeon from the Nets."
Oct. 29
" Tuesday Wind NW variable Weather, much Ice in the Lake along shore. The Men employed as yesterday."
Oct. 30
" Wednesday Wind yesterday a Strong Gale with Snow and Drift, afterwards clear, very cold. Snow last night. the Lake set in as far as can be seen. The Men employed, Carpenter Planing Boards. Two Men laying Cook Room floor. Two men Net making & the rest employed within Doors making Pegs for Fastning Plank & Boards."
Oct. 31
" Thursday Wind South clear Weather. Carpenter planing boards. Two Men laying the Cook Room floor. Two Men sawing framing for Partitions. One Man Net making and the rest about necefsary Duty."
Nov. 1 1776
" Friday Wind variable Weather clear & very mild. The Men employed as yesterday."
Nov. 2
" Saturday Wind & Weather much the same. This open Weather has prevented our going upon the Lake to our Nets. The Ice being yet too weak. The Men employed as before. finished the Cook Room floor."
Nov. 3
" Sunday Wind NW A small Breeze clear Weather. Read Divine Service."
Nov. 4
" Monday Wind variable clear mild Weather. Two men Sawing framing for Partitions. Carpenter & one Man planing Boards. One man netmaking, the rest setting up dry Firewood."
Nov. 5
" Tuesday Wind West clear Weather. The Men employed as yesterday."
Nov. 6
" Wednesday Wind South clear Weather."
Nov. 7
" Thursday Wind NW clear Weather no getting to the nets as yet."
Nov. 8
" Friday Wind & Weather as yesterday but yet mild."
Nov. 9
" Saturday Wind variable clear mild Weather. The Men have been employed the remainder of the Week as on Monday."
Nov. 10
" Sunday Wind SE Clear Weather. Read Divine Service."
Nov. 11
" Monday Wind NE Weather part Clear & part Cloudy & mild. Two Men sawing Plank. Carpenter & one man preparing Wood for Partitions. One Man net making, and three Men setting up firewood."
Nov. 12
" Tuesday Wind variable clear Weather. The Men employed as yesterday. Sent off William Tomison & William Walker to snare Rabbets, where Indians say they are plentiful."
Nov. 13
" Wednesday Wind & Weather as yesterday. We have attempted at times to get to the Nets but in vain."
Nov. 14
" Thursday Calm cloudy Weather till towards Evening then a Small Breeze at NW with Snow. The Men employed as before. William Tomison & Walker returned not finding by the few Tracks they see that there were ? Rabbets worth waiting to hunt."
Nov. 15
" Friday Wind North Weather Cloudy with small Snow most of the Day. The Men employed about necefsary Duty within Doors."
Nov. 16
" Saturday Wind SE cloudy Weather Snow at times. The Men employed as yesterday."
Nov. 17
" Sunday Wind & Weather variable. Read Divine Service."
Nov. 18
" Monday Wind variable cloudy Weather. Carpenter and one Man laying the lower flooring of one quarter of the House. Two Men sawing Plank. Two Men sent to make Rabbet Hedging near at Hand. One Man net making, & one Man Cutting firewood."
Nov. 19
" Tuesday Wind NW Cloudy Weather with snow at times. The Men employed as yesterday."
Nov. 20
" Wednesday Wind variable Weather cloudy with small Snow at times. Sent William Walker & William Tomison with one Man to the Nets. They took up the old and set down two new nets. brought home nineteen Sturgeon. Two Men Sawing Boards. The Carpenter and one Man laying the lower flooring. One Man netmending and two Men preparing Stones for a Hearth."
Nov. 21
" Thursday Wind NW a fresh Breeze cold drifting Weather. One Man made a Fire Hearth Carpenter and one man setting up Partitions. Two men Sawing. One Man net mending & Two Men making Wooden Pins for fastning Boards."
Nov. 22
" Friday Wind variable clear Weather. The Men employed as yesterday."
Nov. 23
" Saturday Wind SE Weather cloudy with Snow. Sent three Men to the Nets (three fish). They brought one Net home that was damaged in taking up, being froze into the Ice; They set down the two old Nets lately taken up to mend. the rest of the Men employed as before."
Nov. 24
" Sunday Wind NW cloudy Weather. Read Divine Service."
Nov. 25
" Monday Wind & Weather variable. The Carpenter & one Man laying the flooring of a Second Quarter of the House. One Man Net mending, the rest setting up Firewood."
Nov. 26
" Tuesday Wind variable Weather first part Cloudy with Snow afterwards clear. The Men employed as yesterday except three sent to the Nets, Three Fish, Set the net lately taken up."
Nov. 27
" Wednesday Wind NE Weather part Cloudy & part Clear."
Nov. 28
" Thursday Wind variable cloudy Weather. Three Small Sturgeon from the Nets."
Nov. 29
" Friday Wind NW A Small Breeze clear Weather. The men employed as before except two Men sent Hunting Partridges, very small Succefs, being very scarce."
Nov. 30
" Saturday Wind & Weather yesterday. three small Sturgeon from the Nets, set a new Net. A Basquio Leader from Two Tents of Indians arrived bringing a few Martens to Trade in Supplies. Robert Davey came in with Him: The rest of the Indians that way are in Small parties purposely for killing furrs; James Batt is with some of these. The Indian tells me that He left no Stocks of Provisions at his Tents. I traded the furrs brought and gave the Indian a Present, and also a small additional supply to Robert Davey of Tobacco."
Dec. 1 1776
" Sunday Wind SW Weather part Clear and part Cloudy. The Indian & Robert Davey went away. I sent off William Tomison & William Walker to Trap Martens on the other Side of Saskachiwan River. Read Divine Service."
Dec. 2
" Monday Wind variable very mild Weather. The Carpenter and one Man employed setting up Partitions. Two Men sawing Boards. One man net making and three Men sent to the nets. from which we recieved Sixteen Sturgeon. An Indian belonging to the Superanuated Leader here, and who lately went hunting, returned with an Account of his having killed a large Moose; Hitherto they have scarcely killed food for themselves, notwithstanding the two young fellows having been often laying abroad hunting."
Dec. 3
" Tuesday Wind & Weather much the same. Sent two Men along with the Indian to fetch Moofe flesh. One Man felling firewood. The rest employed about necefsary Works as yesterday."
Dec. 4
" Wednesday Wind & Weather the same. The two men returned with some Moose flesh."
Dec. 5
" Thursday Wind NE A fresh gale clear Weather. nine Sturgeon Two Nemaycoose or a kind of Salmon each 18 lb weight & some small Fish from the Nets."
Dec. 6
" Friday Wind variable clear mild Weather. Carpenter & one Man Setting up Partitions & Bed Places. One Man net making. Two Men sawing Boards and three Men felling firewood."
Dec. 7
" Saturday Wind West cloudy Weather. Snow last night. The three Men who were felling Wood yesterday sent to the Nets brought Twenty Sturgeon & some small fish. The rest of the Men employed as yesterday."
Dec. 8
" Sunday Wind NE clear Weather. Read Divine Service. William Tomison & William Walker returned, they brought Twelve Martens, they complain that the Martens refuse Bait at Present."
Dec. 9
" Monday Wind NW clear Weather. The Carpenter and one Man setting up Partitions & Bed Places. Two Men sawing Boards. One Man Net making, and three Men sent to the Nets, brought home Twenty Sturgeon and some other Fish."
Dec. 10
" Tuesday Wind SE clear Weather. Sent off William Tomison & William Walker to look at the Martens Traps & put up a few more. The three Men who were yesterday at the Nets employed felling Firewood, the rest employed as yesterday."
Dec. 11
" Wednesday Wind variable Clear Weather until the Evening then Cloudy."
Dec. 12
" Thursday Wind East Weather part Clear & part Cloudy, Snow last Night. Two Basquio Indians arrived with a triffle of Furrs to Trade Supplies. Robert Davey also returned with them. the Man He was with having sent Him back on Account of their their having but little food. This it seems is true, but Robert Davey tells me that they have been very delitory in Trapping until lately. I suspect that they propose to slip up to the Pedlers Upper Settlement by sending Robert Davey home."
Dec. 13
" Friday Wind North cloudy Weather. the Indians went away. I kept Robert Davey at home. Sent four Men to the Nets, some fish."
Dec. 14
" Saturday Wind variable clear Weather. The Men have been employed the Remainder of the Week as on Monday & Tuesday. In the Evening William Tomison & William Walker returned from the Traps, brought twenty two Martens and one Quiquihatch."
Dec. 15
" Sunday Wind & Weather as yesterday. Read Divine Service."
Dec. 16
" Monday Wind SW clear Weather. Sent William Walker & Robert Davey to endeavour to kill some Beaver. The Indians lately here having seen a House as they came. The Carpenter & one Man setting up Partitions and Bed Places. One man Net making. Two Men sawing and three Men felling firewood. Three Basquio Indians with Women arrived from another Tribe (Ten Tents) they brought a Scrap of Provisions and some furrs to Trade. they inform me that three of their Men with their Wives are gone to the Pedlers."
Dec. 17
" Tuesday Wind South cloudy Weather with small Snow. I traded with the Indians And gave them some small Presents. Three Men that were felling firewood Sent to the Nets. some Fish. The rest of the Men employed as yesterday."
Dec. 18
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday cloudy Weather much Rhime fell. Sent William Tomison & one Man to look at the Marten Traps. Two Men felling firewood & the rest employed as before. In the Evening William Walker & Robert Davey returned. no Succefs. the Beaver having so many old Houses & vaults to escape to."
Dec. 19
" Thursday Wind NW A fresh Gale Weather cloudy with Snow & Drift. The Men employed in necefsary Works within Doors. viz. Carpenter & one Man setting up the Partitions and Bed Places. two Men net making and four Men making wooden Pegs for fastning boards."
Dec. 20
" Friday Wind the same clear Weather with low Drift. Carpenter & one Man at Work as before. One Man net making. two Men felling firewood and three Men sent to the Nets, they brought some fish. five Indians withWomen Arrived from the Red Deer River to the Southward brought some furrs. they left their People as they say (Ten Tents) Seventeen Days ago, and by losing the Road have been almost starved in coming; The the Distance is only about eight or nine Days Walk, but having been never this way by Land before was the Reason of their being so long: They mentioned having Crofsed the Tracks of three Tribes of Indians on their way here, who seemed to be Pitching towards the Pedlers, but Could not judge who they were: They say that the chiefest part of their Countrymen and who were at War last year are at Present trapping Furrs to the southward. and that many propose to go down to york Fort next Summer. - The Indian mentioned in my Journal of-75 to be employed by Mr Jacobs at york Fort to bring the goods up to their Place, which I laid up in the Ceder Lake in our Pafsge down, is here, He pretends that a fit of Sicknefs on his way from the Factory prevented his performing his promise, & was afterwards away with others at War; but He expects the Goods are all yet safe, and promises to wait for our People any of them that may go that way next Summer & give them up."
Dec. 21
" Saturday Wind the same but lefs clear Weather. Two Men felling Firewood. The rest employed as yesterday."
Dec. 22
" Sunday Wind & Weather as yesterday. Read Divine Service. Traded with the Indians and gave them some small presents. William Tomison & the Man sent with Him returned, brought fifteen martins. They put down the furthest Traps. Martins at present refusing Bait."
Dec. 23
" Monday Wind variable clear mild Weather. The Indians did not go away. The Carpenter & one Man lining the Trading room with Boards. One Man net making. Two Men cutting up Firewood. and four Men sent to the Nets, some Fish, set another Net & took up one to mend."
Dec. 24
" Tuesday Calm clear Weather. The Indians went away. The Carpenter & one Man employed as yesterday. One Man Net mending and the rest felling Firewood."
Dec. 25
" Wednesday Wind NE Weather cloudy with small Snow. Read Divine Service for the Day."
Dec. 26
" Thursday Wind NW clear sharp Weather. Sent William Walker and one Man to look at the Martin Traps. Carpenter & one Man lining the Trading Room. One Man net making. One Man Cutting up Firewood, and four men sent to the Nets, set the one lately taken up, brought some fish."
Dec. 27
" Friday Wind East Cloudy thick Weather. The Carpenter & one Man employed as before and the rest Cutting up Firewood. William Walker and the Men sent with Him returned, they brought five Martins and one Quiquihatch."
Dec. 28
" Saturday Wind variable Weather cloudy with Snow first part afterwards Clear, very cold. Sent six men to the Nets, some Fish. Carpenter and the rest employed as before. Two Indian Men and their Women arrived, part of a Tribe of Basquio Indians. James Batt returned with them. He complains of his having been much afflicted? with the Rhumatism is the reason of his returning so soon."
Dec. 29
" Sunday Wind NW clear sharp Weather. Read Divine Service. Traded with the Indians who arrived yesterday."
Dec. 30
" Monday Wind SW Weather clear and sharp. The Indians went away; kept James Batt at home, as he complained of his not being able to continue Tenting with them The Carpenter & one Man fitting up conveniences in the Trading Room. The rest cutting up firewood."
Dec. 31
" Tuesday Wind & Weather as yesterday. The Carpenter & one Mn employed as yesterday. Four men cutting up firewood and four Men sent to the Nets, some fish. Sent William Walker to look at the Marten Traps. He returned in the Evening with two Martins."
Jan. 1 1777
" Wednesday Wind NW Clear Weather."
Jan. 2
" Thursday Wind as yesterday a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy with drift, some snow in the night. Sent away William Tomison with six Men to lay abroad a little below the Nets, about four miles distant to fell Timber & Provide Boards for new Covering the House. the present Roof being very open, and also to attend the Nets. The Carpenter & one Man fitting up conveniences in the Trading Room. One man net making & one Man cutting up Firewood."
Jan. 3
" Friday Wind SE Cloudy Weather. Sent one man to fetch home some Fish from the Nets, He returned with some. The rest employed as yesterday. The Men at the Woods were served with their allowance of Fish at the Nets."
Jan. 4
" Saturday Wind NE Cloudy Weather with Snow & Drift. The Men employed in necefsary Works as before. William Tomison and two men arrived for their next weeks Allowance of dried Provisions."
Jan. 5
" Sunday Wind NW clear sharp Weather. Read Divine Service. The Wooders returned for their Tent."
Jan. 6
" Monday Wind East Weather cloudy with Snow most part of the Day. Sent William Walker and one man to look at the Marten Traps. The Carpenter & one Man making Conveniences in the Trading Room; And one Man sent to fetch home Fish from the Nets."
Jan. 7
" Tuesday Wind variable Weather as yesterday. The Carpenter and one Man employed as yesterday. & one Man net making."
Jan. 8
" Wednesday Wind & Weather the same. The Men employed as yesterday. William Walker and the Man sent with Him returned with three Martens."
Jan. 9
" Thursday Wind NW A fresh breeze variable cold Weather. Sent one Man to fetch fish from the Nets. The rest employed as before."
Jan. 10
" Friday Wind NE cloudy Weather small Snow at times. One Man cutting up firewood, the rest employed as before. Two Indians with their Women arrived from a little below, they brought a few Furrs and a very small triffle of Beaver flesh to Trade. They pretend that Moofe are very scarce except a considerable distance off, too far to bring Flesh Here."
Jan. 11
" Saturday Wind variable clear Weather, Traded with the Indians and gave them some small Presents as an Inducement to bring in Provisions. The Men employed as before. William Tomison and one man Arrived for some dried Provisions. They brought home some fish from the Nets."
Jan. 12
" Sunday Wind South Weather clear & very mild. Read Divine Service. The Indians went away and the Wooders returned for their Tent."
Jan. 13
" Monday Wind NE Weather cloudy. The Carpenter and one Man planing Boards and two Men cutting up Firewood."
Jan. 14
" Tuesday Wind East Weather cloudy with a little drifsling Snow. The Men employed as yesterday, except one sent to the Nets, brought only two Sturgeon and a few small Fish. The Nets being lefs Succefsful. Sent a new Net to set and brought home one to mend."
Jan. 15
" Wednesday Wind North cloudy Weather. One Man employed net mending. The rest as before."
Jan. 16
" Thursday Wind & Weather the same, A few Fish from the Nets."
Jan. 17
" Friday Weather calm and Clear very warm. Sent two men to fetch Moofe Flesh killed by one of the Indians away hunting. The Carpenter & one Man employed as before."
Jan. 18
" Saturday Wind SW Weather as yesterday very mild. But few Fish from the Nets. Set the Net lately taken up and took up another net to mend. The Men came Home from the Woods for dried Provisions."
Jan. 19
" Sunday Wind & Weather the same. Read Divine Service. The Men from the Woods returned to their Tent, except one I kept at home to afsist in fetching meat, another Beast being killed."
Jan. 20
" Monday Wnd & Weather the same. The Carpenter & one Man planing Boards for Partitions. Having few Tools and those at Present in bad condition, makes this Businefs very tedious. Sent two Men to fetch Moofe flesh, and one Man cutting up Firewood. The two Men sent returned with some Moofe Flesh."
Jan. 21
" Tuesday Wind NW clear mild Weather. Sent the Man away to the Woods whom I kept home on Sunday. Sent one Man to fetch Fish from the Nets. The Carpenter & one Man employed as yesterday. Sent one Man round what Martin Traps are yet up. He returned in the Evening with two Martins."
Jan. 22
" Wednesday Wind NE cloudy mild Weather. The Carpenter and one Man laying the flooring of a third Quarter of the House. One Man cutting up Firewood & one Man Net making."
Jan. 23
" Thursday Wind NW Weather mild & cloudy with small Snow at times. The Men employed as yesterday. The Family of Indians who have been laying here during the Winter went away, intending to hunt round the Edge of this Lake, they promised to bring in Provisions if they kill any. Three young Indians with William Omen & John Driver arrived, bringing Provisions chiefly Beaver flesh and a few Scraps of Furrs. Our men inform me that the first of the Winter they see two frenchmen and two of the Southward Country Indians called Nackowock, who occasionally afsist the Pedlers in coming up; these were all on their way to the upper House to be Supported, having been in a starving way at the Beaver Lake; And the Indians tell me that they had met with the Track of some more of the Pedlers going the same way a few Days ago."
Jan. 24
" Friday Wind & Weather as yesterday. Fish from the Nets. Set another Net and took up two to mend. I traded with the Indians and gave them some small presents; also a Present for a Leader and his followers, and they went away. I kept William Omen & John Driver at home, as they complained of their having been almost Starved at times, and that the Indians did not use them well. - I believe the chief reason of our Men not being well with the Natives; Is their not being affable and otherwise endeavouring to make themselves agreeable, seeming frequently displeased and unwilling to Render little Afsistance in their way. Our Men some of them like very well to go off at first with the Indians, as they are removed from under the Eye of a Master and expect to have nothing to do; There are none of the Indians who are exempted from endeavouring to obviate the necefsities of themselves and families, the Appelation of a Gentlemen being unknown among them; Therefore no wonder that they require our men also to render some help, which they are unwilling to do; by this means they become difsatisfied with each other and our Men the first opportunity they can get of coming in, will make some complaint Such as Ill Usage, want of Provisions &c. To cause them to be kept at Home. The Natives way of Living is uncertain; being sometimes in great plenty and generally of better food than can be collected here; at other times they are scarce: However all our Men that have been with the Natives and returned, are in good Case? - According to my Account of Expences of dried Provisions, I find I have at present remaining 975 lb dried Moofe Flesh, 422 lb Beat Meat, and 169 lb Fat. These together, will serve the present Compliment of Fifteen Men at the House Thirty-seven Days: Which in fact is but a Small Stock when it is considered that But little Provisions can be collected from the Natives at this Season of the year, on Account of their Distance and difficulty of Conveyance; indeed towards the Fall is the best time for Collecting Provisions here, when the Buck Moofe are Fat, and the Indians have the convenience of Canoes. I have traded since the setting in of the Lake only about Eight Days Provisions exclusive of four Days (for the present Complement of Men) now brought; notwithstanding great Incouragement having been given to Induce the natives to bring in Provisions. Besides the improbality of any considerable quantities of Flesh Provisions being brought in, There is great likelyhood of Our Nets falling off soon, as last year for I find by recurring to my last years Allowance Book, That I could only serve twelve one half Days fish in the Month next ensuing and in the Month of March & April, each only one Day fish. I propose therefore, on the fish falling off too much & otherwise Provisions seeming to come in so slow as to endanger a scarcity, to reduce the present Allowance. -
We have had great Succefs in fish this Winter principally Sturgeon, which indeed is fine food; This has been owing to our Number of Nets, which are extended as far a Crofs the narrow they are set in as the Fish seem to swim in: But I must again inforce what I have said in my former Journal of the 14th Novermber last, The necefsity of this Place being provided with a small three Thread fishing Net Twine; The Italian Twine we have been provided with, and which I expected might have done very well. It answers better than the Jack Twine, being a size smaller, But it swells much in the Water. I have caused two Nets for Sturgeon to be made of our Common fishing Twine; with these We have had much greater Succefs in proportion than with the other Nets, but being only two thread and a very indifferent Sort, they were continually requiring Repairs, and consequently we lost many Fish we should have otherwise got. - As I did find that the Allowance of Fish 24 lb pr Mefs for a Day was too small when but little Meat is served with it, not suffering for more than two meals; I therefore did give the Men 30 lb pr Mefs from the first of the Winter: And in Contra as I found that 10 lb of dried Moofe Flesh was sufficient, I did therefore Reduce that from 12 lb to 10 lb pr Mefs for a Day. - As no Bread &c can be served here, requires such large Allowance of the Country food, particularly Fish; Being at Present fifteen Men at the House. 112 lb Fish will be required to serve the whole one Day.- This Place according to late Appearances will not be able to maintain above Ten or Twelve Men well; Indeed as the dependances for food are so very precarious it would be imprudent for more to be kept to Winter Here: This inforces the necefsity of the Company's making an early Settlement up above towards the Buffalo Country, where men may most likely be well provided for, As the *Afsinee Poet Indians can come there, These being the Best for bringing in food, and indeed it may be said they are the only ones who ever have any large Stocks of Preserved Provisions: Besides if any Scarcity of Provisions should happen at an upper Settlement, the Complement of Men can always be lefsened for a time by sending part with the Natives into the more interior parts of the Country, where they may be sure to live well if they use discretion in the Expenditure of the Goods they may be entrusted with for their Supports. Provisions may also be Collected at an Upper Settlement to afsist this Place; Since the Pedlers have been so numerous, those who resided at the Upper Settlements have generally provided a Supply of Provisions to help their fellow Traders in the Spring who resided in the Lakes, otherwise these would be distrefsed in their Journey down. The Pedlers who have hitherto resided in the Lakes have some of them been in great Distrefs for Food, chiefly owing to their not being able to come up early enough for the Season of collecting preserved Provisions, & now Since this Settlement has been made, those Pedlers who are near are more liable to be worse. As for Instance the Pedlers now residing in the Beaver Lake; because any reserves of Provisions that the Natives might otherwise have kept for the Pedlers, the Liquor here will most probably draw from them. I have in my late Journal of the 18th May and of 2d July, mentioned the Expediency of the Company's having out Settlements, to which I refer for further Particulars on this Head. - The making a Settlement up the River Saskachiwan ought to be the first object; However if an Order should be brought the York Fort by the next Ship from the Company for this purpose, yet before any Orders can Arrive Here that may be sent off then, it will most probably be too late for such an Undertaking; for according to appearances convenience of Natives & Canoes will be wanted for afsisting to transport Men and Goods up. I am of Opinion that it will therefore be necefsary to send up as soon as convenient after the first arrival of Men and Goods from the Fort, by any Indians either of the Pegogamew Sturgeon River or Afsinnee Poet Tribes, who may be on their return for above from the Fort, or may afterwards came down here to Trade, or otherwise by any Indians who belong hereabouts; most probably few of the last will consent to afsist, for the natives in general are a dastardly People, and some of them from the Badnefs of their own minds become fearful of others, so that they generally go with reluctance amongst other Tribes, notwithstanding most of them being personally known to each other either by having been in Warring Companies together or in accidental meetings. - By making a Settlement up above, I mean only a temporary one, that will require the least necefsary time in erecting and which may be occasionally quitted to reside in a more convenient Place. According to the motions of the Pedlers, who will undoubtedly make some Alterations occasionally in their Situation."
"*They inhabit the Expence? Tract of Land to the S & W of Christianaux? Lake & they are the richest Indians that come down to the Factories. War is their Delight and the Archithinue? Indians are the objects of their inverterate enmity V. Grahams Acc. of H.B.?"
Jan. 25
" Saturday Wind SW clear and very mild Weather. The Carpenter and one Man laying the House flooring. One man making wooden Pegs for fastning Boards. One Man net mending and two men cleaning Snow out of the Pathway in the yard. - William Tomison returned and four Men with Him; He informs me that they have felled Timber sufficient and it is all squared ready for sawing into Boards, except a few Pieces. - An elderly and almost superanuated Indian arrived with his Woman and three small Children; He pretends that they have been almost starved for want of food, and that He proposes to wait here until some of his relations may come in and then go away with them: I have told Him that it is out of my Power to afsist Him with any thing, except Ammunition or Tobacco, and therefore He must not expect further from me."
Jan. 26
" Sunday Wind SE clear Weather Read Divine Service. I kept William Tomison and two Men at home and only sent two Men away to the Woods. These will be sufficient to square the remainder of the Timber to afsist the Sawyers, and do the necefsary Tent Duty so as the sawyers may be kept constantly employed in that way. These two Men I have also ordered to afsist in looking at the Nets."
Jan. 27
" Monday Wind the same cloudy Weather. The Carpenter & one Man laying the House flooring. One man net mending. Two Men laying the Men's fire Hearth, and three Men sent to the Nets; I went with them and served out the Wooders Allowance there, this I shall continually do as long as the Wooders remain abroad."
Jan. 28
" Tuesday Wind West clear Weather. The Carpenter and one Man setting up Partitions and Bed Places. One Man net mending. One Man sent Hunting Partridges, very small Succefs. And two Men clearing Snow out of the Pathway in the yard. Sent William Tomison and two men to provide Sledges purposely for hauling home Roof Boards upon."
Jan. 29
" Wednesday Wind East a fresh breeze clear Weather the Men employed as yesterday."
Jan. 30
" Thursday Wind SW clear Weather very warm. The Carpenter & one Man employed as before. One Man net mending. One Man sent Hunting Partridges, and two Men sent to the Nets, brought a few Fish. William Tomison and the two Men sent with him returned, they brought home two new Sledges and two Martins from the Traps."
Jan. 31
" Friday Wind variable clear mild Weather. The two men who were at the Nets employed cutting up Firewood and two Men cutting wooden Pegs for fastning Boards."
Feb. 1 1777
" Saturday Wind NE clear Weather. Sent two Men to the Nets, who with the Dogs brought home some fish and two Sledge Loads of Roof Boards from the Sawyers; The rest of the Men employed as yesterday. One Man arrived from the Wooders to fetch flesh Provisions."
Feb. 2
" Sunday Wind NW Weather first part cloudy with Drift afterwards clear. Read Divine Service. The Man from the Woods went away for his Tent."
Feb. 3
" Monday Wind as yesterday clear Weather. I sent off William Tomison and William Grey to go to the Southward to Trap Martins. Also sent off William Walker and Robert Davey to go up Saskachiwan & proceed to the Southward some distance above. The Carpenter and one Man setting up Partitions and Bed Places. One Man net mending. One Man hunting Partridges and snaring Rabbets. what He kills is hardly worth while continuing him on his Duty but as we want Provisions. Sent two Men to the Nets, who brought home some fish and Boards from the Sawyers."
Feb. 4
" Tuesday Wind & Weather the same sharp. The two spare Men cutting up Firewood. The rest employed as yesterday."
Feb. 5
" Wednesday Wind & Weather as before. Fish from the Nets & Roof Boards brought home; Set one Net taken up sometime ago to mend."
Feb. 6
" Thursday Wind SW clear Weather."
Feb. 7
" Friday Wind variable clear Weather. Last night Robert Longmore & Malchom Rofs arrived from Inland bringing four Sledge Loads of Furrs hauled by Dogs. They tell me that they came from Mekisew-Wachy ((ie. Eagle Hill) mentioned in my first inland Journal) Where the Indians they left (chiefly Afsinnee Poetuck) are pounding Buffalo, that they set off from there forty Days ago, but having to wait to provide Sledges & Snow Shoes on the Road detaind them much. They say that there is so little Snow on the Ground where they came from that the Indians had not yet then occasion for Snow Shoes or Sledges. That an Indian did set off to Accompany them Here, But when they came to the upper Pedlers House He traded a little Provisions which was all that belonged to Him and then left them to turn Back. However the Pedlers gave our men a little Supply of Provision and were otherwise very kind. Robert Lomgmore & Malcholm Rofs accordingly proceeded by themselves, keeping the River all the way and pafsed the lower House, where one Master with Isaac Batt and a few Men are residing; These have hardly any Goods Left. what few they had being chiefly Expended. - Robert Longmore informs me; that there are several Indians Above who propose some to go to York Fort & others to come Here to Trade next Summer; but that many notwithstanding have been, and others are continually going down to the Pedlers with Furrs and Provisions; And there are many of the Pedlers Men interspersed through the Natives who Trade and collect all the Furrs they can. He says that the Pedlers at first had three Settlements, and there was great Emulation between them in endeavouring to undersell each other, by which means they hurt themselves much; the reason was, that some who had a Difference with their fellow Traders last spring refused to Join Stocks, But however these finding the Inconvenience of their acting seperately and through Perswasions used by others they consented to Join. And accordingly they all went up to the upper Settlement, except one Master with a few Goods who was stationed at the lower House, as before mentioned. The Upper House Robert Longmore informs me, is up the West branch of the River (as I was informed last Summer by the Indians) at a small River or rather Creek a little on this side of Sacketakow Wachy (ie thick Woody Mountain); mentioned in my first Inland Journal; that the distance from the Upper to the lower House is about five Days Journey, (NB He supposes they might have travelled between twenty-five & Thirty Miles each Day) And twelve Days Journey from here; the lower House being seven Days Journey from here. Robert Longmore further informs me that Isaac Batt is very desirous to return into the Companys Service, being tired of the Pedlers. And that He proposes to come here next Spring if agreable, in consequence of a Letter delivered to him when here last fall by William Tomison from Mr Martin. But that notwithstanding He is afraid of being sent to England for quitting the Company's Service. I have directed Robert Longmore to tell Isaac Batt That if He will come here, I shall recieve Him kindly, and that He may accompany some of our Men down to York Fort next Summer. - Robert Longmore Gave me the following Account of their proceeding in their Journey up last fall; That they overtook the Pedlers at the Carriage from this Lake into Saskachiwan River and they were in company most of the way up; That on the 15th October they reached the lower Pedlers Settlement, where were several Indians, and Robert Longmore traded a large Canoe from them which He has laid up for Spring Use; On the 22d they arrived at the Upper Settlement where were also several Indians waiting; here they remained until the 2d November, having to wait for some of the Indians going away with; Then they pitched away, and have been moving in the Plain Ground ever Since. - Robert Longmore informs me that the Pedlers were very kind to Him and the rest in their Journey up, offering them any Afsistance, as also when they pafsed the Settlement in coming down; And that they have sent their Compliment to me: He further said to me that the Pedler (Frobisher) One of those who behaved so ill to the Northward as mentoned in my late Journal the 27th June last, did ask his pardon for his (Frobishers) ill treatment of him, and laid the Blame upon his partner Henery, Whom he said was the cause of all. In return Robert Longmore told Frobisher; that as to Himself He should wave the Affair if the Company did not think proper to take notice of it; Frobisher it seems when here last fall made use of the same mean Subterfuge of throwing the blame upon Henery and asked pardon, to which William Tomison returned, that the Company will undoubtedly protect their Servants from Insults by all Lawful means. - Robert Longmore further tells me that a Canoe with a Frenchman and an Indian Arrived at the Pedlers upper Settlement the 2d November in the Morning before He left that Place, from the Beaver Lake with a Packet, forwarded from the Pedlers who are up to the Northwestward in the A'thospuskow Indians Country, (the four Canoes mentioned in my Journal of the 1st July last to be gone up that way), and also with Letters from the Beaver Lake: The Pedlers told Robert Longmore that by the last they were informed I was Arrived. The two Canoes who were going to the Beaver Lake having seen me pafs, but that they did not speak with me as We did not wait, notwithstanding their having called to Us. Robert Longmore also says that the Pedlers Men who went up above from the Beaver Lake (as mentioned the 24th Ult.) Gave an Account that they had been in great distrefs for Food except a little Fish, No Indians having been near them during that part of the Winter, and that only one Beaver Skin had been Traded: He further says He was informed by the Pedlers that they had recieved a Packet over Land from the Northwest Pedlers this Winter which gave an Account of Twenty-eight Packs of furrs having been Traded there. (NB Their Packs or Bundles are general 90 lb Weight). This Packet they said was only fourteen Days in its Pafsage. The River (called Beaver River) up which they are, running much up to the Westward. The Pedler Frobisher is to come down with two Canoes to go to the Northward in the Spring as they informed Robert Longmore; This information of two Canoes being to go to the Northward, We recieved from the natives Here in the fall. - Robert Longmore informs me that in their Journey up last fall they overtook Charles Isham and the Indians He was sent away with, a little above the first Fall in the River Saskachiwan, and they kept company up to the Pedlers upper Settlement, where they parted with Him; But that Charles Isham came to them in distrefs the first of the Winter, having wastefully Expended all his Goods, and had lived with them ever since. - Robert Longmore tells me; that one of the Frenchmen at the lower Settlement and who pretends he knows how to build Canoes, proposes if agreable to build a large Canoe & come Here to Engage as a Company's Servant, or to afsist as an Indian in going down to & returning from the Fort; This Man Robert Longmore says seems to have a good Name amongst his Fellows: I find this is a Man who deserted from the Pedler Pangman at the Carrying Place above here last Fall, and came to offer his Service to William Tomison, but William Tomison very prudently refused to accept Him, and He lay about among the Indians until the Pedler Jute returned from the Carrying Place above on his way to the Beaver Lake, and He went away in one of the Canoes, but Jute would not permit him to go in the one He himself was in; Jute gave him a very indifferent Character Here: the above Man was one of those who went up from the Beaver Lake this Winter, and gave Account of their being Starving. - The Furrs brought by Robert Longmore, amount to 123 made Beaver, consisting of Wolves, small coloured Foxes, (commonly called yeachithinnee Foxes), and some whole & half Beaver. I have traded them from Him in such Goods as will be most convenient for Carriage, and for Collecting of furrs for to bring down in the Spring; This I have done to encourage his continued Diligence, intending to give him a Supply besides, for his own and the other Mens Supports, To encourage Indians &c. - Robert Longmore says; that they met with no Indians on this side of the Pedlers Settlements, only some Tracks, two Days ago gone A Crofs Saskachiwan River to the Northward."
Feb. 8
" Saturday Wind NW clear Weather. The Men have been employed the Remainder of the Week as on Monday & Tuesday. The Carpenter and his mate finished the Third Division of the House. A few Fish from the Nets and Boards from the Sawyers. - As we are so very scant of flesh Provisions, and no likelihood of any quantity considerable being brought in during the Remainder of the Winter, or even in the Spring, chiefly on Account of the Distance of the Natives and the inconvenience of Carriage; Besides the probability of our Nets falling off the latter part of the Spring, and when we may not be able to get to them for Water; I have therefore appointed two Men (James Wafs & William Omen) to accompany Robert Longmore and Malchom Rofs on their return Inland, and to be there supported until they come down in Canoes. - As our Complement of Men will then be thirteen. I shall be able to Spare Eight or Nine Men which will probably be all that I can employ with the Canoes we now or may have or will indeed be necefsary for going up Saskachiwan River with the Quantity of Goods that can be sent next Spring, together with the afsistance if what few Indians may be willing to undertake to go, for as few of our Men can Steer Canoes, We shall require the Help of some Indians. - I have given Robert Longmore a fresh Supply of Goods in addition to some He left behind for his own and the other Mens support, and to encourage Indians to go down to York Fort with their Furrs, or to come Here and Trade Furrs or Provisions. I have also directed Him to Trade what Provisions He can, appointing Him a Time with the Men with Him to meet the Men who may go up in the Spring, that they may get supplied, and likewise recieve what Afsistance Him and his partners can give. This I expect will be of great Service; For as according to appearances, We may not have any good quantity of Provisions to spare as a Supply to the Men who may be sent up, They will now require no more than is necefsary for their Journey up, and the fear of their being too early there for Natives coming down and by that means wanting Provisions is obviated; therefore I can now send as soon as the River Saskachiwan appears sufficiently Clear of Ice. I have likewise directed Robert Longmore to take Notice next Spring as He comes down, of the Depth of the Water and particular places where good Woods are near the River, above the Pedlers upper Settlement. - On Robert Longmores return now up, I have directed Him to return my compliments to the Master Pedlers, and that I consider myself much obliged to them for their kindnefses to our Men. And that if any of their Men should come my way in Distrefs I shall endeavour to afsist them, But as to any thing further I must decline; And also to inform the Master Pedlers, that the Honourable Hudson's Bay Company, will undoubtedly protect their Servants and Property by all Lawful means. - I think that the Pedlers repeated Behaviour of enticing away the Company's Servants, requires their Servants having as little connections with them as pofsible, and the ill Usage shown to Robert Longmore by them last Summer, Has given a fair Opportunity of breaking off all friendly Intercourse, except occasionally giving and recieving Afsistance in times of Necefsity. - As to the Frenchman who offers to build a large Canoe and to be employed by me, as mentioned yesterday; I have ordered Robert Longmore to tell Him; that I will not engage Him, But that if he builds a large & strong Canoe & brings it to me I will trade it from Him. I do not expect that this Man will bring me any Canoe, But however if He should, the Quantity of Goods He will recieve from me as payment will be small, and I shall be careful that they are of such kinds as to prevent his doing any Injury to the Company's Interest among the Natives. A few Indians who were here last Fall did (as William Tomison informs me) promise to build large Canoes, but the Natives are in general so very Fickle & Indolent, that there is no Depending on them. - I repeated my mefsage to Isaac Batt as yesterday, But directed Robert Longmore to deliver it privately, to prevent as much as pofsible any design Isaac Batt may have of endeavouring to enhance his Value with the Pedlers, in having this repeated Offer of being recieved Here delivered in their Hearing. I gave two Small Articles of Medicines to Robert Longmore for to deliver to Isaac Batt which He had required from me by Robert Longmore."
Feb. 9
" Sunday Wind SW clear Weather. Read Divine Service. Robert Longmore and the Men with Him did not go away. One man I only sent to the Sawyers Tent, as He will be sufficient to tend the Sawyers and do other necefsary tent Duty. He is also to afsist in looking at the Nets."
Feb. 10
" Monday Wind East Weather cloudy with Small Snow the whole Day. Early in the Morning Robert Longmore and the three Men ordered with Him set off on their Journey for Inland. the Carpenter and one Man laying the flooring of the fourth and last Quarter of the House. Two Men cutting up Firewood and one Man hunting Rabbets and Partridges."
Feb. 11
" Tuesday Wind NE Weather cloudy with small Snow most part of the Day. The Carpenter & one Man employed as yesterday & three Men sent to the Nets, who brought home a few Fish also Boards from the Sawyers. in the Evening William Walker and Robert Davey returned with thirteen Martens. they said they might have got more having seen several Tracks. But a Quiquihatch happening upon their Track He followed it a while and pulled down several of their Traps."
Feb. 12
" Wednesday Wind NW a fresh Breeze at times Weather cloudy with Snow at times. The Carpenter and one Man laying the flooring. One Man making Pegs for fastning Boards. One Man Hunting and two Men cutting up Firewood."
Feb. 13
" Thursday Wind as yesterday cloudy Weather. The Men employed as yesterday. five Basquio Indians arrived, who brought a few Furrs and a small triffle of Provisions to Trade. They are part of the same Tribe who arrived the 28th December."
Feb. 14
" Friday Wind & Weather the same. Traded with the Indians gave them some Presents as encouragement and to bring in Provisiosns, they afterwards went away. Sent three of our Men to the Nets who brought home some Fish, also Boards from the Sawyers."
Feb. 15
" Saturday Wind NW clear Weather. The Men employed as before. One Man came from the Woodsers? for Provisions."
Feb. 16
" Sunday Calm clear Weather. Read Divine Service. The Man from the Woods went away for his Tent. In the Afternoon William Tomison and the Man with Him returned with forty Martins, one Jackash and two Quiquihatches."
Feb. 17
" Monday Wind variable Weather Cloudy with small Snow. Sent William Walker and Robert Davey to look at the Traps They lately set up, and to build more Traps further on. The Carpenter & one man setting up Partitions and Bed Places. One Man cutting up Firewood and three Men sent to the nets who brought home some Fish. also Boards from the Sawyers."
Feb. 18
" Tuesday Wind East Weather cloudy. Sent the Carpenter & one Man to prepare some Hickery for Chairs and to bring it Home for Seasoning against Opportunity suits for making them. They returned in the Evening with some. One Man sent Hunting Partridges. He kills very few. Two Men cutting up Firewood, And one Man making Pegs for fastning Boards."
Feb. 19
" Wednesday Wind variable clear Weather. The Carpenter and one Man setting up Partitions & Bed Places. One Man cutting up Firewood, and three Men sent to the Nets, they brought home six Sturgeon and some Boards from the Sawyers."
Feb. 20
" Thursday Wind West clear Weather. William Tomison & William Grey set off to look at their Martin Traps and to build some more further on. The Carpenter and one Man employed as yesterday. One Man Hunting and two Men cutting up Firewood."
Feb. 21
" Friday Wind NE variable Weather. Sent one Man with the Dogs to fetch home some Boards from the Sawyers. The rest employed as yesterday."
Feb. 22
" Saturday Wind East clear Weather. Three Men sent to the Nets they brought home a few small Sturgeon and Boards from the Sawyers. In the Evening William Walker & Robert Davey returned from Trapping, not having found Ground fit for that purpose much further than where they were before, they brought twenty seven Martins. One Man came from the Wooders for Provisions."
Feb. 23
" Sunday Wind East clear warm Weather. Read Divine Service. The Man from the Woods returned for his Tent; I sent an Additional Man with Him, who with the other spare Man at the Tent is to Afsist those I shall send to the Nets, and to do Necefsary Tent Duty in providing Firewood &c so as the Sawywers may constantly be employed in that way; The above two Spare Men are also to angle for Fish, to Hunt Rabbets & Partridges."
Feb. 24
" Monday Wind & Weather variable, thawed much, A smart Shower of Rain in the Afternoon for about ten Minutes. Three Indians with Women arrived from up the River Saskachiwan, they brought some Moofe and Beaver Flesh and Beaver Skins to Trade; Also two Basquio Indians arrived, bringing a few Martins and a little Provisions. - The Men employed. Carpenter and one Man setting up Partitions and Bed Places.One Man cutting up Firewood and two Men sent to the Nets but small succefs, They brought home Boards from the Sawyers."
Feb. 25
" Tuesday Wind NW a small Breeze clear mild Weather. thawed much. Traded with the Indians and gave them some small presents and Incouragement. The Carpenter and one Man at work. Two Men cutting up Firewood and one Man sent with William Walker to build a little Rabbet Hedging near at Hand."
Feb. 26
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday a fresh Breeze clear cool Weather. A few Fish from the Nets. The Indians from up Saskachiwan River went away but the Basquio Indians yet Here."
Feb. 27
" Thursday Wind variable Weather clear until the Evening then Cloudy. The Basquio Indians went away. I sent off with them William Walker and Robert Davey, The Leader having said that He would direct them to good Trapping Ground; But William Walker & Robert Davey returned in the Evening, having found that the Ground which the Indian showed them, was where William Tomison & Walker had been Trapping in the first of the Winter."
Feb. 28
" Friday Wind SW Clear Weather thawed much."
Mar. 1 1777
" Saturday Wind West clear mild Weather But small Succefs from the Nets And the two spare Men at the Sawyers Tent have killed only one small Pike in Angling as yet. One of them come Home for Allowance of Provisions."
Mar. 2
" Sunday Wind NE A fresh Gale Weather cloudy with continued Snow & Drift the whole Day some Rain last Night. Read Divine Service. Two Indians arrived with a little Provisions and a few Furrs to Trade from those mentioned the 23d January."
Mar. 3
" Monday Wind NW a Strong gale with Drift Weather Clear and Sharp. Traded with the Indians and gave them some Presents as further Encouragement to bring in Provisions. The Men employed. The Carpenter and one Man setting up Partitions and Bed Places. And three Men sent to the Nets But they returned without Looking at them the Weather becoming too bad; they brought home some boards from the Sawyers. William Tomison and William Grey returned with Sixty-six Martins, Two Quiquihatches & three Jackashes from their Traps."
Mar. 4
" Tuesday Wind NW clear sharp Weather. The Carpenter & one Man employed as yesterday. One Man making Pegs for fastning boards and two Men cutting up Firewood. William Walker and Robert Davey went off to look at their Traps: The Indians went away; the old Indian and his family who have been here sometime went away with them."
Mar. 5
" Wednesday Wind & Weather the same but milder. sent three Men to the Nets from which we recieved ten Sturgeon and two Pike."
Mar. 6
" Thursday Wind SW Weather variable a little Snow last night. Three Men cutting up Firewood until Breakfast, then sent two with the Dogs to the Sawyers for Boards, but they brought two fourinch Plank, which I have caused to be cut for the purpose of erecting a Prefs for Packing furrs. In the Evening four Indians with their Women arrived bringing Moofe and Beaver Flesh, also some Furrs to Trade. Two of them part of the Company who brought me up in the Fall, the others from the Sweet Herb Lake."
Mar. 7
" Friday Wind NW variable Weather. Sent Men to the Nets but they returned without any Fish."
Mar. 8
" Saturday Wind & Weather as yesterday. Traded with the Indians And gave them a Packet for Mr Marten. One Man came from the Sawyers. The Carpenter and his mate finished the Bed Places & conveniences in the Mens Cabbins. William Walker & Robert Davey returned with forty Martins and one Jackash from their Traps."
" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Humphrey Marten
Cumberland House 8th March 1777
Good Sir,
By the Arrival of some of the North River Indians I embraced a second Opportunity of writing to you by them. The Indians (four with Women) now come in, Two of them are part of those who brought me &c up. Wappatunish and Metunekishock (old Ketakow's Son); These have been killing Furrs &c between this Place and the Sweet Herb Lake. - The other two are Escon and Wesack from the Sweet Herb Lake; These two Parties pretend not to have seen each other during the Winter But accidentally met two Days ago on their way Here. They brought Provisions and Furrs with them; The Provisions are very Acceptable, But I afsure you Sir, the furrs are not so from these Indians, as they are your Debtors.
On my Arrival last Fall finding Provisions so Scarce Here; I did desire the Indians who brought us Up to bring in Provisions, but told them not to bring in Furrs, As they proposed to come Here in the Winter? expecting not to get far in Canoes. - The Indian called Wesippenum who came down with me to York Fort last Summer, And a young Musquash River Indian called Pifsu Wattaky and whom I don't find in the List of your Debtors, Arrived Here sometime ago to Trade a triffle of Provisions and a few Furrs; Wesippenum had Debt here in the Fall which He paid Honestly, as He did last Spring a Debt He had here last year, But as he expected to fall short I complied with his Entreaties in Crediting Him afresh. And he is at present indebted twenty Beaver to this Place: As we were so very short of Provisions I did strongly inforce a Request by this Man, That these He came from or any others that He might meet with, would be diligent in Collecting Provisions and bring in Here, and that I would give great Encouragement to any of the young Men who would afsist in Hauling in Provisions, Telling Him that no York Fort Debtors were to bring in furrs for if they did I should be obliged to Stop them. He gave me very little hopes of any quantity considerable being brought on Account of the Distance; His Son Law Escon with Wesack are all that came from there, and old Ketakows Wife; They have brought according to their Number much more Provisions than I could have expected at this Time of the year such a Distance, Or indeed I have recieved from any others much nearer Hand.
I have expostulated with and Discommended the Indians now Arrived for bringing in Furrs, Telling them my having recieved your Orders for stopping all Debtors Furrs, and reminding them of my having directed them only to bring Provisions. In excuse they say That they had expended their Stocks of Goods and that Provisions was too heavy to bring a Quantity sufficient on Sledges such a Distance to Trade Goods enough for supplying their Necefsities. And that they have left behind Furrs over and above sufficient to pay their Debts to you. - This is the Excuse of those from the Sweet Herb Lake; They further say, that the two Canoes of their Countrymen part of those whom I met in coming up, were prevented by the Frost from proceeding to York Fort, and by that means prevented recieving their Payment from you for bringing up Goods here, and likewise from recieving their usual Credit from you; These have returned to them and being in want, the supplying them has been a great cause of their Stocks being so soon expended. - Escon I believe had no Debt from you last year, but I hear that He owes you part of a former Debt Twenty Beaver: According to the best Judgement that could be formed of his Furrs as He traded with the others. He had about Thirty made Beaver and Provisions, Out of whch He paid his Debt trusted Here. Wesack whom you trusted thirty Beaver last Fall and I believe owes you something to a former Debt; He tells me that He has left sixty made Beaver behind and expects more to be given to Him. He brought sixty Beaver in furrs, also Provisions. - Ketakows Wife brought besides Provisions Twenty-two Beaver in Furrs, She says like the rest that the Debt of Twenty Beaver due to you are left. I have stopped ten Beaver from Her as part of your Debt. - Wappatunish and Metunekishock the other party Also say they have left Furrs behind. Provisions were the Chief of what they brought. The Furrs were triffling and seemingly most of them killed in coming here being mostly yet Green. - I did intend to have stopped all their Debts, But as they complained that they would be distrefsed if I did stop them, And considering that I should have to supply them Gratis with necefsaries; I have therefore only stopped thirty Beaver as your present Debt from Wesack and traded the Remainder; I have also stopped ten Beaver from Ketakows Wife part of his Debt as above mentioned.
I hope Sir I shall not incur your censure for having thus only partly punished these Indians for bringing their Furrs Here, When you consider the above reason; Besides I must own I had some repugnance to being more severe from Gratitude for having brought us a Supply of Provisions.
I have something Sir with regard to the state of Affairs Here to say, But wanting time to enlarge I shall defer it until another opportunity in the Spring, That I may either send down or come myself, whch perhaps will be soon after you recieve this: I therefore shall only inform you; That we have in general been Healthful And through great Succefs in Fish have Hitherto been in Plenty of Food; We had more Provisions brought in by the Natives than I expected at this Season of the year considering the difficulty of Carriage. These? Indians have brought in a Seasonable supply of ten Days which is no small Quantity, when it is considered that our Allowance is large as we have nothing but Country food to serve; And as I expect according to last year that our Nets will now fall almost entirely off. I had intended to reduce the Allowance of Provisions, proposing to enlarge as We may get a Increase; But however the present Supply induces me to defer it further. My reduction will be as follows: Viz. Half dried Meat I shall reduce from 15 lb to 12 lb pr Mefs for a Day. (NB. Our half dried Meat here is such as is called dried Meat at York Fort. The same kind Traded here in the Warm Weather is much dried to preserve it after we recieve it) Dried Meat from 10 lb to 8 lb And Beat Meat from 10 lb to 8 lb with Fat from 4 lb to 3 1/2 lb Pr Mefs for a Day; Fish I intend to continue at the Allowance of 30 lb pr Mefs without a seeming prospect of Scarcity should require a further reduction. With the above Reduction I have found the Men will be supported without even reasonably knowing want, for moofe Flesh is very nourishing Food.
I have at present collected Here One Thousand and odd made Beaver in Furrs and have great Expectations from the Spring. Robert Longmore and Malcholm Rofs have arrived from Inland bringing Furrs; there are at present five Men along with Robert Longmore Inland, These are all at present Abroad; Several Basquio and other Indians hereabouts have been here trading Supplies. - The Accounts from all Qurters mention Indians intending to go down to York Fort, but neverthelefs I have heard of Several having been at the Pedlers. Of those whom you see last Summer. Ohoetuck and his Son Tootoose and Mameekathinnue I have heard have been about the Pedlers. Also some of the U Basquio Indians have been at the Pedlers, but I have not heard that Cattabobbinwow has been there, However I suspect that He may have sent Furrs with some that went.
I am of opinion Sir, that the Company must have an early out Settlement up above. Which to Effect next Summer must be set on Foot as soon as convenient after the arrival Here of Men and Goods from you, further particulars on this Head I shall inform you of If I should arrive early at York Fort, otherwise I shall transmit them by Letter in Time.
I shall conclude with an Hope that yourself and all at York Fort are at present in Health and Felicity.
Remaining
Good Sir
Your most obliged &
Obedient Servant
Matthew Cocking
P.S. I am very happy Sir in my two Mefsmates, they have been of great Service to me; I do expect great Benifit from their Joint Endeavours in the Spring. - Robert Longmore when Here from Inland informed me that Wesippinum who was one of his Company in coming up last Summer Was very troublesome, being the cause of much Expence of Liquor Whenever they met Indians; Cocumasoke also behaved but badly after wanting to turn Back, But his Canoe-mate Mathicot would not consent."
Mar. 9
" Sunday Wind variable Weather Clear and very mild thawed much. The Indians went away and the Sawyer for his Tent. Read Divine Service."
Mar. 10
" Monday Calm cloudy Weather. The Carpenter and one Man making two Ladders for the Pafsages to the Upper Appartment of the House. One Man cutting up Firewood. William Tomison and William Grey went away to attend their Traps and to set up more. Sent two men to the Nets One of which is to afsist the two spare Men at the Sawyers Tent in endeavouring to procure Fish by Angling and to remove some of the Nets to a Place about four miles below where they are at Present. I also sent William Walker with them to remain there, as I do suspect the two former Men have not exerted themselves hitherto, having killed only two Pike and one Trout: Whereas the Superanuated Indian lately here did maintain himself Wife and three small Children by Angling, and Besides traded ten spare Fish with me. One Man returned from the Nets who with the dogs brought home some Sturgeon. A few Boards and a Net taken up to mend."
Mar. 11
" Tuesday Calm cloudy Weather very mild small drizzling Snow at times, Snow last night. The Carpenter and one Man employed as yesterday. One Man net mending & one Man sent to fetch Boards from the Sawyers."
Mar. 12
" Wednesday Wind variable clear Weather thawed much. The Man who was employed with the Carpenter sent to the Nets. No Succefs. He brought Home some Boards. Also two Fish Angled yesterday by the spare Men at the Sawyers Tent having kept two more Fish there to serve themselves. They set one Net below yesterday. I sent another to them to Day from here to set below; One Man employed net mending The other Man (Robert Davey) laying in with a sprained Foot making Pegs for the Carpenter. An Indian Arrived from those who went away the 23d January bringng a triffle of fresh Deers Flesh. He pretends that they have killed no Beasts which prevented my hearing from them sooner, and that they have subsisted chiefly on Rabbets."
Mar. 13
" Thursday Wind NW Weather most part Cloudy. The Indian went away. The Carpenter making conveniences in the House. One Man net mending. One Man making Wooden Pegs and one Man sent to fetch home Boards from the Sawyers."
Mar. 14
" Friday Calm clear Weather. Sent off Robert Davey to attend the Martin Traps; Sent one Man to the Nets who brought home two Sturgeon and left three Sturgeon to serve the Men at the Tent; He also brought one Pearch & Pike which with one of the Sturgeon were caught in the two Nets below: I sent another Net lately mended to be set tomorrow."
Mar. 15
" Saturday Wind East variable Weather. The Carpenter making Gates for the two Divisions in the yard. And two Men cutting up Firewood. William Walker and two Men came from the Tent, the Sawyers having finished their Businefs. They brought home one Sturgeon one Pike & five Pearch, caught in the Nets below."
Mar. 16
" Sunday Calm clear Weather thawed much. Two young Indians arrived from those who went away last Sunday They brought some Provisions and a few furrs. The Provisions I Traded, but the Furrs I stopped as part of a Debt due to York Fort. I gave them a Line to be forwarded to Mr Marten & they again went away. William Walker returned for the Tent himself and the other three Men being to Angle for Fish and attend the lower Nets."
" Copy of a Note sent to Mr Hump. Marten
Cumberland House 16th March 1777
Good Sir,
Two young Men from the same Tribe lately Here have now arrived with a little more Provision which I have traded. They have also brought twenty made Beaver in Furrs which they say belong to Wappatunish. these I have stopped as part of his Debt to you. - They are going off again immediately.
I remain
Good Sir
Your most obliged & Obedient Servant
Matthew Cocking"
Mar. 17
" Monday Wind West clear Weather. The Carpenter making Gates for the two Divisions in the yard. One Man net making and three Men sent to the nearest Nets. They brought Home two Sturgeon. Also some Boards from the Tent."
Mar. 18
" Tuesday Wind variable clear Weather. The Carpenter and one Man making Gates. One man net making. And two Men cutting up Firewood."
Mar. 19
" Wednesday Wind SW clear cool Weather William Walker came home with three Sturgeon three Pike and three Nemacoofe (a kind of Salmon or Trout). these with two Sturgeon, one Pike and three Trout served to Himself and the Men with him at the Tent are what they have killed this Week. All except the Sturgeon One Pike and the Tickameg being caught by Angling. He returned for his Tent."
Mar. 20
" Thursday Wind North clear cold Weather. Sent three Men to the nearest Nets. They brought home one Sturgeon and a Net to mend which I directed them to take up, intending to have it set below."
Mar. 21
" Friday Wind East Weather clear until the Afternoon then Cloudy with a little Snow. One Man Net mending, The rest with the Carpenter Piling the Roof Boards in a propper manner for Seasoning."
Mar. 22
" Saturday Wind SE clear Weather. Snow last night. One Man employed Net mending. The rest in Necefsary Duty as on Tuesday. Wm Walker and one Man came Home from the Tent, They brought some fish; He informd me that Since the 19th they have killed with the Nets and with Angling three Sturgeon, seven Pike, five Trout three Pearch and two Tickameg. - Two Indians Arrived from those lately here, They brought some Moofe and Beaver Flesh to Trade. Robert Davey returned from the Traps with Twenty five Martens and one Jackash."
Mar. 23
" Sunday Wind NW Weather clear until Noon then Cloudy with Snow & Drift. Traded with the Indians and they went away. Read Divine Service. William Walker and the other man returned for their Tent. I sent a net lately mended with them to set below in the room of one expended."
Mar. 24
" Monday Wind NW A Strong Gale cloudy drifting Weather; being very bad I did not send Men to the Nets. The Carpenter and one Man making Gates for the two Divisions in the yard. Two Men net making."
Mar. 25
" Tuesday Wind as yesterday but lefs clear Weather. The Men employed as yesterday; The Carpenter finished and hung the Gates in the yard."
Mar. 26
" Wednesday Wind SW clear Weather. Sent four Men to the Nets, who brought home five Sturgeon. The Carpenter making Frames for two Glafs Windows. And one Man net? making hinges for the same. Fifteen Basquio Indians with Women Arrived, (part of the same Tribe three of which came here the 16th December) They brought Provisions and Furrs to Trade, and sometime after two Indians with Furrs from further on to the Southward. Also three Cawonitow Indians belonging to the same Tribe part of which came here 20th December; these brought little or nothing with them."
Mar. 27
" Thursday Wind & Weather the same. Traded with the Indians and gave them Presents as incouragement. I recieved 496 lb of half dried Moofe Flesh &c which will serve the present Compliment of Men ten Days; Also 130 lb Beat Meat and 52 lb Fat. These together will serve four Days more. Likewise I recieved 140 lb Beat Meat alone. In the Evening William Tomison and William Grey returned from their Traps with Eighty-five Martins and one Quiquihatch; They Complain of their having been much troubled with Wolves and Quiquihatches which pulled down their Traps and destroyed several Martins, but would not take Baits in Traps fit for recieving themselves."
Mar. 28
" Friday Wind NW Weather Cloudy with Drift first part Afterwards Clear. The Indians went away. The few Cowonitow Indians mentioned as part who arrived and who brought little or nothing with them; These I found came only to beg and seemingly with an impositious? Intent; They brought Mefsages from several of their People, all requesting Supplies under pretence of their intending to go down to York Fort next Summer, what seemed some confirmation of imposition was one having sent for Iron work as part. - I am well convinced that no Pedlers residing this year in these Indians Country is the only reaon of their having come this Distance at all; But few of these Indians have been at York Fort for some years past as I have said in a former Journal, and even then the few that did Arrive, the Chief of what they brought were only Parchment Moofe Skins (which the Pedlers would not then take), besides a few poor and seemingly refuse furrs; With these they used to Trade Brazil Tobacco and Iron Work, the only Articles they could not be Supplied with at home: Notwithstanding their being so poorly Gooded, they used repeatedly to Recieve very large Presents, given with a good Intent of inducing them to behave better in future; But the Event showed that this was a fruitlefs Expence. For the Quantities of Goods they carried away not only enabled themselves to live Comfortably but also to Supply some others, for which they used to recieve either Furrs or other Goods in return; and these Furrs with what they killed themselves were generally all given to the Pedlers, except some refuse, which with a few Parchment Moofe served to go down with again to York Fort, where they had only to say, that all the Indians they left had traded their Furrs with the Pedlers none being willing to come down except themselves, and that they had been sickly, or some other palpable Reason as an Excuse for their bringing so little. And then to run upon a fresh Score?. I do not presume to mean this as any reflection on former measures, Quite the reverse. For as the Companys Affairs were circumstanced with regard to falling Trades The then only seeming probable means of Retrieving them were by the above Methods. I am afraid of being tedious and presuming in what I have said. But if I am I hope the Anxiousnefs of doing my Duty will plead my Excuse. I did give the aformentioned Indians Presents of Tobacco to carry to the respected Persons they mentioned, accompanying them with a mefsage to the purport of my being very glad to hear of their intending to go down to York Fort next Summer, and accordingly had sent them those presents as incouragements. But that I could not afford to give them the large Supplies they had requested, for the great Expence in bringing up Goods Here &c required that Natives should bring some furrs in exchange for any considerable Supplies that they might want. But that if they took care of their Furrs and carried them down to York Fort they would there be rewarded according to merit; I also gave them some Ammunition as a Supply to carry them back to their own Part. I have proceeded in this manner with these Indians from the Reason as above given to them, and besides from a Conviction, that if I had complied wholly with their Requests it would have been only an additional Expence without any good Prospect. For if the Natives can be supplied Here with necefsaries wholly gratis they will bring no Furrs and as to promises to carry them down to York Fort they are not to be depended on neither can they Trust their own Resolutions; The only prospect of certainty is when they may be seen in Canoes on their way down. - I sent four men to the Nets, they brought home seven Sturgeon. Also some Boards from the Tent. In the Afternoon five Indians Arrived part of the same who were here the 23d January. They brought some Provisions and a few Furrs to Trade."
Mar. 29
" Saturday Wind SE clear Weather. The Carpenter making Window Frames . Two Men net making and the rest cutting up Firewood. William Walker and one Man came Home, they brought some Fish caught by Angling & in the Nets."
Mar. 30
" Sunday Wind NW A fresh Gale first part with Drift afterward milder clear Weather. Read Divine Service for the Day. William Walker and the Man with Him returned for their Tent; Indians went away."
Mar. 31
" Monday Wind variable clear Weather. William Tomison & William Grey went off to the Martin Traps, and Robert Davey for his Traps. The Carpenter employed making Window Frames. One Man net making, and three Men sent to the Nets, but small Succefs."
Apr. 1 1777
" Tuesday Wind and Weather variable a little Snow last Night. The Men employed. The Carpenter as yesterday. Two Men Net making. One Man cutting up Firewood and one Man afsisting the Carpenter. Two Families of Indians came in who propose to build Canoes Here. I traded a few Furrs from them."
Apr. 2
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. Three Men sent to the Nets (Three Sturgeon) set a new Net in the Room of one Expended, brought home one Net to mend & the last of the Roof Boards from the Tent."
Apr. 3
" Thursday Wind SW clear Weather. The Men employed as on Tuesday. The Carpenter finished the Window frames and fixed them. I gave the Indians a Supply of Ammunition and they went away to endeavour providing themselves with Provisions. Robert Davey returned from the Traps with three Martins. He mentioned having seen four Swans flying on Monday."
Apr. 4
" Friday Wind & Weather the same thawed much. The Carpenter Sick. Two men net mending. One making Hinges for two Window Shutters and two Men cutting up Firewood."
Apr. 5
" Saturday Wind variable Weather clear and at Noon Sultry. Sent three Men to the Nets no Succefs. They set a Net lately mended and took up another to mend. William Walker and one Man came Home from the Tent. They brought home several Fish of Sorts They see Swans as they came Home."
Apr. 6
" Sunday Wind SE Clear Weather. Read Divine Service. About Noon Two Pedler Men pafsed on their way to the Beaver Lake from the upper Settlement. They came up to the House and I met them without offering them any Afsistance they might want; telling them that I was obliged to their Master for the favours shown to our Men last Fall and this Winter, and as such desired them to Acquaint their Masters when they should again see them, But that the ill Usage shown to Robert Longmore last Summer to the Northward prevented me at present from Asking them to come in; According to their Request I gave them a Supply of Provisions and a little Tobacco. They Answered to my enquiries that they had seen Robert Longmore and the Men with Him well as they pafsed their Settlement. That all their People are well and have plenty of food; As to any thing further I did not chuse to enquire and they went away."
Apr. 7
" Monday Wind NE Clear Weather. The Carpenter recovered and at work making two Window Shutters, and one Man afsisting him. Two Men net making. One Man (John Driver) Sick. In the morning sent off Robert Davey to his Traps and to put them down as He returns. The Season being over. William Tomison and Grey Returned in the Evening with Twenty-four Martins and one Quiquihatch. They have put down their Traps."
Apr. 8
" Tuesday Wind as yesterday Weather Cloudy with Sleet. Sent three Men to the Nets. They set one Net lately mended; brought home eight Sturgeon and some Pike and Perch from the Tent; William Walker returned with them, whom I have ordered Home intending to employ him in Writing."
Apr. 9
" Wednesday Wind NW Weather cloudy with Snow & Drift. Two Basquio Indians arrived with a few Furrs to Trade, also two Indians from the Cedar Lake below. The Men employed. two cutting up Firewood. One making Belts for Hangers. One Net making & the Carpenter and one Man about necefsary Jobs. John Driver yet Sick. Robert Davey returned from the Traps with three Martins."
Apr. 10
" Thursday Wind SE clear Weather. Traded with the Indians and those from below went away. The Basquio Indians yet Here."
Apr. 11
" Friday Wind NW A fresh Gale Weather cloudy with Drifting Snow. The Indians went away. Sent three Men to the Nets (three Sturgeon). One Family of Indians came they propose to wait here until the breaking up of the Lake. One Indian arrived from those who went away Hunting Pitching the 5d Instant bringing fresh Moofe Flesh which I Traded. this Day I gave as encouragement to the Men who have been employed in Trapping during great part of the Winter & Spring Viz. To William Tomison 15 1/2 Beaver in Trading Goods as necefsaries for Trapping forty five Martins and one Wejack. And to William Walker 10 1/2 Beaver for Trapping thirty Martins and one Wejack: These in the first of the Winter. Likewise to William Walker and Robert Davey 37 Beaver in Trading Goods as necefsaries for Jointly Trapping One Hundred and fourteen Martins and two Jackashes. Also to William Grey 34 3/4 Beaver for his moiety of two Hundred & sixteen Martins four Jackashes and one Wejack: William Tomison who is entitled to encouragement for the other moiety chuses not to recieve his Gratuity at Present."
Apr. 12
" Saturday Wind North Weather most part Clear. The Indian who arrived yesterday with Provisions went away. The Carpenter and one Man employed making a Prefs for Packing Furrs. One Man Net making. One making Belts for Hangers and two Men cutting up Firewood. John Driver yet Sick. his Complaint a Huratic? Stich in his Side. I have daily for his relief administered all the Remedies in my Power. The three Men who have been Tenting abroad Fishing for sometime past came Home with the Nets &c as I had directed them. They brought a few Fish."
Apr. 13
" Sunday Wind & Weather as yesterday. Read divine Service."
Apr. 14
" Monday Wind variable clear Weather. The Carpenter employed making a Packing Prefs. One Man making Belts for Hangers. One Man repairing the Scabbards. One Net making. Three sent to the Nets And three Men felling a few Timber Pieces for enlarging the Provisions shed being too Small for any great Quantity. John Driver recovered and at work. Six Indians Arrived from the Sweet Herb Lake below bringing fresh Moose Noses and half dried Beaver & Moose flesh; they also brought a few Furrs but none belonging to York Fort Debtors."
Apr. 15
" Tuesday Wind East variable Weather. Traded with the Indians who came yesterday. At Noon the Family of Indians who lay here the first of the Winter arrived. Also one Family of Indians that had joined them; I traded a few Furrs and a little Provision from them. Three Men who were yesterday at the Nets employed. One Afsisting the Carpenter and two Men clearing away Snow off the intended Garden ground."
Apr. 16
" Wednesday Wind NE clear Weather. The Indians from the Sweet Herb Lake went away."
Apr. 17
" Thursday Weather &c as yesterday. Three Men sent to the Nets, three Sturgeon and some other Fish. they say that the Ice is very weak near the Nets. three Basquio Indians Arrived with a few Martins."
Apr. 18
" Friday Wind West clear Weather. In the Morning all the Men employed carrying Home five Timber Pieces for sawing into Roof Boards for the victualing Shed, and afterward employed as on Monday Traded with the Indians who arrived yesterday."
Apr. 19
" Saturday Wind NW Cloudy cool Weather. The Indians who arrived on Thursday went away. Sent six Men to bring home all the Nets with which they returned, also two Sturgeon and two Pearch. - We have killed since the Lake being froze over 396 Sturgeon 105 Pike, 43 Nemaycoose (a fish resembling a Salmon Trout in shape and taste) 85 Pearch, 94 Tickameg, 24 Suckers, 5 Methy or Burbot and one Mathlmeg? a Fish much resembling a Cod in make and Taste."
Apr. 20
" Sunday Wind as yesterday clear Weather Read Divine Service."
Apr. 21
" Monday Wind & Weather as yesterday. Last night two Indians Arrived from a Tribe of the Basquio Indians, They brought a triffle of Furrs to Trade Ammunition, they went away to Day: One of them told me that He had been during the Winter moving about in the plain Ground, and pretended that several of the Natives have as usual Traded all their Furrs with the Pedlers both Pigogomew and Afsinne Poetuck, and are again gone to War. He also informed me that some of the Southern Tribes of Indians had been up at the Pedlers Settlement, and particularly named the very men (Cowonitow Indians) who had sent to beg Supplies from me (as mentioned the 28th Ult.) having some of them been at the Pedlers in the Winter and Accounts given of the residue soon intending to go. These had been Trapping within the Country as mentioned the 20th December. He said they propose to go down to York Fort next Summer. But he did not Suppose that they had any Furrs considerable left to take except one Man may who had been verry succefsful having killed about one Hundred Beaver, besides some Wolves; He further said, that Accounts had been recieved of Several of the Sasahnow? Indians also profesing to go down to York Fort. These are further on below The above Indians Country and if they have been Succefsful in Trapping may have Furrs To carry on Account of their Distance from the Pedlers present residence. The Men employed. The Carpenter and one Man prepairing Wood for Paddles. One Man making & another meding Nets. One Man cleaning Guns. One making Belts for Hangers. One Man cutting Firewood and three Men siding Timber for enlarging the Provision Office."
Apr. 22
" Tuesday Wind SW Clear Weather. Swans seen. The Carpenter and one Man employed as yesterday. Two Men sawing Roof Boards for the Provision Office & the rest employed in necefsary Works as yesterday."
Apr. 23
" Wednesday Wind & Weather as yesterday. The Carpenter & one man employed making the packing Prefs. The rest of the Men employed as before."
Apr. 24
" Thursday Wind variable clear Weather."
Apr. 25
" Friday Wind & Weather as yesterday."
Apr. 26
" Saturday Wind & Weather the same. The Prefs finished, and packed twelve Bundles of Furrs."
Apr. 27
" Sunday Wind West clear Weather. Read Divine Service. Two young Indians brought a little fresh Beaver Flesh from those who went away the 3d Instant which I traded."
Apr. 28
" Monday Wind variable Weather first part Cloudy with Snow afterwards clear. The Men employed. Two in sawing Boards. One Net mending, two Clearing away Rubbish from about the Stockades, & five Men employed at the Prefs, packed thirteen Bundles of Furrs."
Apr. 29
" Tuesday Wind NW Clear cool Weather. The two young Indians went away who arrived on Sunday. The Men employed as yesterday. Packed twelve bundles of Furrs."
Apr. 30
" Wednesday Wind variable clear Weather. Packed sixteen Bundles of Furrs."
May 1 1777
" Thursday Wind South clear Weather. Packed two more Bundles of Furrs and afterwards the men employed in necefsary Works as before. finished sawing the Roof Boards. The coolnefs of the Weather prevent our having Canoes repaired as yet. Two families of Indians went away, proposing to build Canoes at the little River just below here being more convenient for them."
May 2
" Friday Wind & Weather as yesterday. Sent five Men Hunting who returned with one Swan & two Geese. The rest employed in necefsary Works. Recieved two Swans from Indians."
May 3
" Saturday Wind NW Weather cloudy with a little Snow. The Men employed as yesterday. Two Swans from the Hunters. Sent one Man to examine Saskachiwan River He returned with Account of its being broke up in the middle, but that he supposed the Ice is not yet come down from above as the Ice is all yet remaining on the sides off Here."
May 4
" Sunday Wind South clear Weather. Read Divine Service. The Indians some employed fitting up our Canoes (four) for going up the River Saskachiwan."
May 5
" Monday Wind NW A Small Breeze clear Weather. Three Indians arrived from acrofs the Lake to Trade a little Ammunition. They say that two of their People (the Indians mentioned the 23d January) are building each a large Canoe for Us according to promise. Sent four Men hunting, they killed a few Geese, also recieved a few from Indians. One man net mending. One Man squaring Timber, and two Men employed in necefsary Duty. William Taylor laid up with a complaint of the Head Ache. The Indians some of them yet repairing our Canoes."
May 6
"Tuesday Wind variable clear Weather. The Men employed as yesterday; except the one mentioned to be ailing; also James Batt who is troubled with the same Complaint. The Indians finished repairing our Canoes."
May 7
" Wednesday Wind variable clear Weather. Sent ten men Afsisted by two Indians to carry the Canoes acrofs to Saskachiwan River. they returned about 10 oClock. James Batt recovered. William Taylor yet ill; He is recovered of the pain in his Head, but Complains of his being afflicted with a flux."
May 8
" Thursday Wind NE Weather first part Clear afterwards Cloudy with a little Rain. A heavy Rain last night. Sent off William Tomison William Walker and five more men, Viz. William Lutit, William Grey, Magnus Twatt, John Driver and Mitchel Omen to go up the River Saskachiwan to meet Indians above the Pedlers Settlements, and endeavour to induce them to go down to York Fort to Trade, or to come here: I sent with them a large stock of Trading Goods for the above purpose, and to Trade with any Indians who may be unwilling to come down; four Indians went with them whom I have employed to afsist in the Journey. I sent most of the Remainder of the Indians, and all the men except myself and another also went to afsist in carrying the Goods to the River; they Embarked about Noon except John Driver, who returned complaining of his being suddenly seized with violent Stiches inwardly as He was carrying a Load, and there were no other fit to send in His room. One Man William Taylor being yet ailing as before, another, Robert Davey has a slight venerial Complaint upon Him and a third, Magnus Sclater, is near recovered of the same disorder, a fourth Man James Batt is weak and therefore unfit for such Duty, and the Carpenter (the fifth Man) will be wanted for doing the Necefsary Works of the House. - Notwithstanding the Men going now We are not afsured that the Ice is Sufficiently come down from above so as they can proceed. Off here the River has been open in the middle some Days and only small bits of Ice coming down at times, but the Ice is yet remaining unbroken in places near the shores. Last year the River broke up on the 25th Ult., and was soon clear of Ice coming down with a deluge turning the Current of the little Rivers that run into it near Here, back into the Lake, and as the Indians say always used to happen; and indeed some of them are of opinion on that Account, that the Principal Body of Ice must be yet to come down. Notwithstanding the latenefs of the time. However fearing if We waited any longer that the Indians may come down to the Pedlers Settlements if the River should be sufficiently clear above obliges me to send now. more especially as there is little prospect of Danger if a Deluge of Ice should meet the Men, as they can be protected from it by retiring with the Goods &c within the Wood on the edge of the Banks of the River; And if the Water should swell so high as to overflow there they cam erect Stages for their preservation until the Water falls away again."
May 9
" Friday Wind variable Weather part Cloudy and part Clear. The Carpenter & one man sawing Plank for making two new Doors to the House. The present ones being in bad condition. One Man digging the Garden Ground, and two Men William Taylor & John Driver laid up as before. Two Indians Arrived from acrofs the Lake; part of those mentioned the 23d January. they came to trade a little Ammunition."
May 10
" Saturday Wind NW Weather first part cloudy afterwards Clear. The Men employed as yesterday. The two Indians went away who Arrived yesterday."
May. 11
" Sunday Wind SE Weather clear until the Evening then a fresh Gale and Cloudy. The Ice much broke up on the Lake. Read Divine Service."
May 12
" Monday Wind as yesterday as fresh Gale variable Weather Rain at times a very strong Gale last night. The Ice much opened on the Lake off here by the wind. The Carpenter and one man partitioning off the Garden ground. One Man digging it and a fourth net mending. William Taylor on the Recovery; John Driver says his first Compalint has left Him but that he is in exchanged afflicted with the Gravel. - Thus Man I am lead Strongly to suspect has only pretended Sicknefs to prevent his being one of the Company sent up Saskachiwan River; When he returned back as mentioned the 8th Instant pretending to be in great Pain, on examining his Pulse I could find no extraordinary Symptoms except what will happen to every Person in Health, his pulse being a little quickened by exercise; neither in his Vifage either then or since has any alteration appeared as might be supposed to happen to any one who had continued in such great Pain as he pretended to be in: As I do not pretend to let Blood I did then & since administer to him such other medical afsistances as were in my Power, but finding no effect from these I did propose to employ an Indian to cup Him After their manner. This Operation He was afraid to undergo notwithstanding his knowing that I myself had been cupped by an Indian for a Complaint a few days ago. On his unwilling I did defer it for that time, but declared that if he continued ill He must for the reastablishment of his Health Submit to the Opperation: and this I do suspect is the only cause of his former complaint being changed to the Gravel. This man was generally supposed to sham Sicknefs to prevent his being sent Inland in the year -75 as was noted by the then Chief and Council at York Fort, being the Surgeon's declared opinion; And his late Sicknefs which commenced the 7th Ult. and held for a Week, was supposed by myself and mefsmates to be only ficitious and a forerunner of the present supposed intended Deception for then (as now) He never lost his Colour or Appetite but obstinately continued to lay most of the whole time in bed, as supposed to prevent his being observed, pretending he was not able to sit up. Notwithstanding the strong Presumption of deceit, as a Person of the Faculty might be supposed to be the only one fit to Judge of the Veracity of Bodily Complaints, I have not presumed to force him to follow my directions at these times, but treated him with Tendernefs and indulged him with his own way However to prevent as much as I can others following his Example, and also to prevent any design He may have of inducing himself to be sent back to York Fort as a Sickly Person, I have resolved in due time to appoint him as one of the Persons to remain at the House when I may go down."
May 13
" Tuesday Wind NW A fresh breeze at times clear Weather. William Taylor recovered and employed, John Driver yet laid up. The Carpenter and one Man employed as yesterday. One Man net mending; sent one man Hunting who returned in the Evening no Succefs, sent another Man off in a Canoe together with an Indian to endeavour to shoot Geese in Saskachiwan River. Two Indians arrived having left their Canoe in Saskachiwan River, brought little or nothing with them: They tell me that they came from the place called Susquatinow (ie.) high bare ground - about One Third of the way between this Place and the Pedlers nearest Settlement; They say that the River has been broke up and clear of Ice above sometime; that little snow having fell last Winter up above the thaw made no great swell of Water to cause a deluge; that they were stopped with Ice on their way here off the Sturgeon River (about forty miles distant) which was then coming down, and they followed the Ice: They brought me a Letter from William Tomison whom they Left this morning Just proceeding from where the Letter was dated; A second Canoe who was accompanying them returned with our People."
" Coppy of a Letter recieved from Mr William Tomison
Saskachiwan River about 20 miles above Cumberland House May 12th 1777
Kind Sir,
The Arrival of these two Canoes affords me the Opportunity of informing you of our detainment occasioned by the Ice and bad Weather, which I am afraid will be detrimental to our House. The 8th We paddled about eight miles the 9th we paddled about seventeen miles; at four oClock we were Stopt the River being Jammed from side to side which made us return back five miles and there made a Stage for the Goods for fear the Water should overflow the Banks. William Walker Magnus Twatt and MemeekAthinnee have been employed killing Geese to preserve our dried Provisions. I conclude wishing you Health and Happinefs and us a good Journey.
I remain
Dear Sir,
your most obedient
& Humble Servant
William Tomison
May 14
" Wednesday Wind variable Weather Clear until the afternoon then cloudy with gusts of Wind at East thunder & Rain. John Driver at Work. The Carpenter & one man finished the partition of the Garden ground. One man digging and clearing the same. One man net mending and two Men preparing pieces of Wood to fix the intended Roof Boards to, proposing for to be put over the old one, this being the most probable method we can devise of keeping the inside of the House dry. One Canoe of Indians arrived (part of the same Tribe mentioned yesterday) they brought nothing. they met our people proceeding all well yesterday; They say that four Canoes of Pedlers accompanied them being on their way from the upper Settlement and are gone down to wait below for the rest as usual: By these the Indians say they were informed, that two men sent to Trade from the upper Settlement had been plundered & murdered by the Natives; That our men formerly inland are residing with some Indians who are building Canoes a Considerable distance above the Pedlers upper Settlement. Two Canoes of Indians went off to Hunt Geese."
May 15
" Thursday Wind NW clear Weather. The Carpenter making a flag staff. The rest of the Men employed as yesterday. The Man with the Indian sent to Hunt Geese in Saskachiwan River returned with a few; They see the four Canoes of Pedlers pafs yesterday and say that eight more went down to day."
May 16
" Friday Wind variable clear Weather. Traded some Geese from Indians, The Carpenter finished the Flag Staff and it was set up."
May 17
" Saturday Wind West variable Weather. The Carpenter employed in doing necefsary Works. The rest of the men employed as before. Four Basquio Indians arrived here by Land having left their Canoes at the Entrance into this Lake being stopped with Ice which by the late Winds is drove on this shore, they came to Trade & Beg a little Supply of Ammunition."
May 18
" Sunday Wind & Weather variable Rain at times. Read Divine Service. Indians daily trading a few Geese."
May 19
" Monday Wind South clear Weather. The Basquio Indians went away. The Carpenter employed in Necefsary duty in his way. One Man Gardening and four Men cutting up roots & clearing the Plantation round the works."
May 20
" Tuesday Wind SE variable Weather. No Ice in sight on the Lake being drove by the Wind to the other side. The Men employed as yesterday."
May 21
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday first part mild afterwards a fresh Breeze. I sent off two Men in an old large Canoe to set nets in the little River just below here. I have directed them to attend them during the Night to prevent the Indians robbing them who are building Canoes there. A Canoe of Indians arrived to Trade a triffle of Furrs."
May 22
" Thursday Wind NW A fresh breeze at times Weather part clear and part cloudy. The Canoe of Indians went away who arrived yesterday. The two men abroad returned with a few fish. The Carpenter Sick. Three men cutting up Roots to clear the Plantation. Three Canoes of Indians arrived from the Sweet Herb Lake, they are come to afsist in carrying down Furrs according to Promise, they pretend to have been lately in want having expended their Ammunition."
May 23
" Friday Wind variable & Weather clear. the men employed as yesterday in necefsary Works. One Canoe of Pedlers arrived and landed near; I went down and met Frobisher and acknowledged my Obligation to Him and his fellow Traders for their kind afsistances afforded our men, particularly last Winter; and that in return I should with Pleasure afsist any of their People that might come our way; But that I was sorry to say the treatment shown to Robert Longmore last Summer prevented me asking Him to walk in; but if Isaac Batt (who was likewise present) chused to remain here I would recieve Him. Frobisher returned that the maletreatment shown to Robert Longmore was owing to his partner Henry, and that Isaac Batt came with Him intentionally to remain here. He informed me that our People had reached the lower Settlement and were proceeding all well five days ago, and then I took leave of Him. Isaac Batt brought a large Canoe made under his care?, which was before mentioned to be Traded from the Indians last fall by Robert Longmore, and which I have recieved."
[In the margin "? Batt ? if frobisher bringing Isaac Batt to Our people to remain with them may ? be done with a view to be ? himself by his information of our Affairs whenever He shall again enter Isaac? Bat into his service?"]
May 24
" Saturday Calm clear Weather. About four this Morning Frobisher went off in his Canoe leaving Isaac Batt whom I have recieved. Isaac Batt informs me that two more Canoes accompanied them whom they left in Saskachiwan River on their way to those gone on before; that five Canoes at the upper Settlement are all at present remaining, those are to wait for what Indians are yet to come down above; That Frobisher is going to the two Canoes in the Beaver Lake and from thence to proceed to meet the Pedlers from the Northward. Isaac Batt also informs me that the Pedlers have of late been but Scant of Provisions; that they had indeed recieved a large supply during the Winter, but when the men returned to the Settlements in the Spring who had been Supported abroad by the Natives. Their Number was so increased that most of the Provision was soon eaten up. Isaac Batt confirmed the Account I had recieved the 21st Ult. of the Cowonitow Indians having been at the Pedlers."
May 25
" Sunday Wind South A fresh Breeze clear Weather. In the morning twelve Canoes of Indians arrived from acrofs the Lake; (those mentioned the 5th Instant) Traded some furrs from them; They also brought two large Canoes built according to promise and which I also traded. Twenty Canoes also arrived from up the River Saskachiwan who generally reside in the Lakes in the Summer. ? brought nothing with them; One of them brought me the following Note."
" Copy of a Note recieved from Mr Will. Tomison
May 15th 1777
Good Sir,
I have sent you a mefsage for to take in charge a Canoe for Mameek- Athinnee, and that we have been delayed alittle by his old ways of Proceeding, when we met with Indians. This day we proceeded on the Tracking ground. Twelve Canoes of Frenchmen gone by on their Journey down, commanded by Mr? Holmes.
William Tomison"
May 26
" Monday Wind & Weather as yesterday. Traded some Furrs. The Carpenter and one man employed Making new doors for each side of the House. One man Gardening & three Men clearing the Plantation."
May 27
" Tuesday Wind East Weather clear and Sultry until the Evening then cloudy with Rain. Six Canoes of the Indians went away who arrived last on Sundy. The Men employed. four Packing a few drest Moofe Skins. and two Men clearing the Plantation."
May 28
" Wednesday wind variable clear Weather. The men employed as on Monday. I sent off for York Fort the three Canoes of Indians lately Arrived from the Sweet Herb Lake to carry down Furrs. In the Afternoon sent one Man with an Indian to set Nets for Fish."
" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Humph'y Marten
Cumberland House 28th May 1777
Good Sir,
By three Canoes of North River Indians, part of those who came up with us in the Fall. I have now sent two Bundles of furrs and five Bundles drest moofe Skins and Tenting Contents as pr inclosed Account. Twelve men being at Present abroad I have none to spare to send with them, but I expect they will carry the Bundles with care.
I have Sir given these Indians three Beaver in Trading Goods as payment for to carry each Bundle, being of the Computed weight and bulk of Thirty Beaver.
On the 8th Instant I sent off in four Canoes, William Tomison William Walker and four more Men, afsisted by four Indians to meet Indians above the Pedlers upper Settlement and to endeavour to induce them not to Trade with the Pedlers: I sent with them a considerable quantity of Goods to Trade with any Indians who may be unwilling to go down to York Fort or to come Here. The six men before inland I had directed to meet those I should now send up and obey such Orders as they should recieve from the Person in Charge. The backwardnefs of the Spring prevented me sending them off so soon as I could have wished; I have recieved accounts from them since of their being all well but much detained in their Pafsage by Ice and bad Weather.
On the 23d Instant One Canoe of Pedlers arrived from above on their way to the Northward with these Isaac Batt also arrived, whom I have again recieved. Isaac Batt informs me that all the rest of the Pedlers are gone down except five Canoes? who are yet remaining at the upper Settlement until the Indians are all Arrived from above, and then they are all to go down not chusing to leave any there, as the men left last Summer were much troubled by the Natives, and two of their men being murdered last winter who were sent from the upper Settlement with Goods to Trade: What Goods may be remaining are to be left under the care of some men either in the Ceder or Sea Lakes.
Some of the Basquio Indians have promised to come here about the time Our men are expected from above; with these I shall send what Furrs I can under Mr William Tomison Charge, proposing myself again to wait for any Athopuskow Indians who may arrive, they are expected to come down much sooner that last year: therefore as it will most probably be too late before our Men may Arrive from above to enable me to send them, I am necefsiated to send Presents under the care of one Man by two Canoes of Indians who are going that way purposely to meet them. I expect these Indians will be careful of the Man and Goods they have promised to return part of the way along with the Athapuskow Indians through a River on one Side of the Pedlers Settlement to avoid pafsing near them.
I conclude wishing a Plentiful Trade to York Fort, Health and Felicity to yourself and all under your Command.
Remaining
Good Sir
your most obliged
& most obedient Servant
Matthew Cocking
P.S. Please to remember myself & mefsmates to the Gentlemen of your Table. - I expect the Indian Weseppenum? to arrive soon, whom I have in a former Letter mentioned to be indebted twenty Beaver to this Place; but if he should not come, please Sir to observe that his Debt is now only seventeen Beaver."
May 29
" Thursday Wind North a fresh breeze clear Weather. The Carpenter and one Making the new House Doors, and two men employed in necefsary works with two Canoes of Indians I sent off Robert Davey to meet the Athopuskow Indians to the Northward up the river Mefsinnippee; I sent with Him Eight Gallons of Liquor, also some other Trading Goods, part to be given as presents and the Remainder to Trade Furrs with any Indians who may be unwilling to come Here. In the Evening the Man and Indian sent a fishing returned with five Sturgeon and several small Fish. Ten Canoes of Indians returned from above who generally Summer in the Lake, they brought a triffle of Furrs which I traded. - The Pedlers always Trading Liquor for Beaver as well as all the other kind of Furrs. I have found it absolutely necefsary to deviate from the Rule that has been long observed at York Fort so far as to Trade Liquor for some Beaver with Indians when they had no other kinds of Furrs to Trade; The Rule of not trading Liquor for Beaver may be followed at the Companys old Settlements, because any other place of Trade may be too far distant to carry their furrs away; However at this place if an Indian cannot Trade his Furrs in such Articles as he chooses, He can in a short time reach some one of the Pedlers Settlements, or keep his Furrs to Trade with them as they pafs. Besides there are some Indians who kill little or nothing except Beaver in the Furr way, and these muft either have Liquor traded with them or else must have it given them Gratis, which would be an Expence more than this place could bear and would even then Answer no good purpose. Last Summer a Nackow Indian came acrofs the Island from Saskachiwan River, telling me that He had left forty Beaver and fifteen Otters and offered them to me if I would trade them in Liquor, desiring that I would send Men to fetch them. I did offer to Trade Liquor for his Otters but not for the Beaver. He told me that he was not in want of any thing except that Article, and if I refused to Trade Liquor for the whole He intended to keep them to Trade with the Pedlers as they came down. I again offered to trade Liquor for the Otters and promised to give him great incouragment for the Beaver in any other kind of goods he choofes, With much perswasion he seemed to Comply and went away making a faint promise to bring the Furrs himself but he dropped down the River and waited for the Pedlers below, with whom I afterwards learned He traded them for Liquor. Two Canoes of Indian Hunters from here then laying in Saskachiwan River see him pafs with two large Bundles of Furrs in his Canoe. For the above Reason and also the declaration at times of Indians, that if I did not chuse to Trade Liquor for Beaver they should be obliged to carry them away, I have occasionally traded Liquor for Beaver, If I am deserving of censure for this Act it must be imputed to Error in Judgement, having done what I thought was best for the Companys Interest."
May 30
" Friday Wind NW a fresh breeze until the Evening then calmer Clear Weather. in the morning sent off Isaac Batt with an Indian to attend the Nets."
May 31
" Saturday Wind as yesterday a fresh breeze clear Weather. Isaac Batt returned with the Nets and five Sturgeon. Six Canoes of Indians went away."
June 1 1777
" Sunday Wind variable clear Weather. Read Divine Service."
June 2
" Monday Wind NE A fresh breeze until Noon then calmer when I sent off Isaac Batt afsisted by an Indian to kill fish. The Carpenter and one man making the new Doors for the House. two Men clearing the Plantation and one man net mending."
June 3
" Tuesday Wind variable clear Weather. The Men employed as yesterday."
June 4
" Wednesday Wind & Weather the same. Isaac Batt returned with a few Fish. Six Canoes of Indians arrived from the Sweet Herb Lake (part of those who were here in the Winter) they came now to afsist in carrying down Furrs according to promise."
June 5
" Thursday Wind SE Clear Sultry Weather. The Carpenter and his mate finished the House Doors. The rest of the Men employed in necefsary Works as before."
June 6
" Friday Wind West a fresh Breeze clear Weather. I sent off the six Canoes of Indians who arrived on Wednesday, also four more Canoes whom I have engaged here, with thirty-five Bundles of furrs for York Fort, under the care of two men, James Batt & William Taylor."
" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Humph. Marten
Cumberland House 6th June 1777
Good Sir,
By six canoes of Indians who have arrived from the Sweet Herb Lake, and four Canoes belonging to this part, I have now sent down thirty-five Bundles of Furrs, Contents as pr Account inclosed. I have also sent two men with them. James Batt and William Taylor. As I am uncertain what Number of Canoes will come to afsist from Basquio, I am obliged to take the opportunity to send what Bundles I can by every Indian that offers; I have at present forty Bundles left in hand, and these may be considerably increased with the Expected upland Trade.
I do daily exect the return of our Men from up the River Saskachiwan, but as the keeping these Indians here is troublesome and expensive compels me to send them off immediately, and also the above two men with them, having so many Bundles and all furrs. - As I proposed in my last, I did send presents under the care of one man by two Canoes of Indians who were going to meet the Athopuskow Indians. they set off the 29th Ult.
I have paid these Indians the same as the others three Beaver for every larger Bundle, and two Beaver for every smaller one, besides little Supplies of Ammunition &c. Our men are also provided with Ammunition and Tobacco for their journey, also a little Supply of preserved Provision to provide against accident.
The Indian Wesippenum who is one of the present Company has paid his Debt mentionend in my last to be due to this Place.
As my Opinion of the necefsity of an early Settlement being made up the River Saskachiwan, I have Sir inclosed an extract from the Journal for your perusal.
I remain
Good Sir
your most obliged
& most obedient Servant
Matthew Cocking
P.S. I shall send the Indent by William Tomison"
June 7
" Saturday Calm clear Weather. The Men employed about necefsary works. About Noon William Walker and five more men arrived together with one of the Indians who went up with them; they came with some Furrs in three Canoes, one of them a large one built after the Pedlers manner by Robert Longmore. William Walker gave me the following Account of their proceedings; That on the 24th Ult. being the 17th Day from here, they reached the Pedlers upper Settlement having been much detained by Ice and bad Weather. And they proceeded about a mile above and Pitched a Tent on the opposite side of the River; They would have gone further on, but finding this a good Place of Rendezvous for Natives, and finding the Pedlers providing to embark Men and Goods in Canoes to proceed up with them, they therefore thought it best to remain there. On the 29th The six men before inland came down with sixteen Canoes of Indians six of them built by the Indians for our use, and one Canoe built by Robert Longmore for a larger Burden, as before mentioned; These Indians had but few Furrs with them, having been at the Pedlers before they built Canoes: However they traded what they had with our People and are at present remaining there. Seven more Canoes of Indians afterwards came down who had been at war and were seemingly well gooded, but they pafsed by refusing to Trade and went to the Pedlers. These were all the Indians they had yet seen except a few Sots laying at the Pedlers Settlement; The Afsinnee Poet Indians who have to come down, were not Arrived on the 3d Instant. The day our men set off on their return, but were hourly expected; These are said by the Indians who arrived to be waiting until the Pedlers may go down, fearing that the Pedlers Liquor will induce them to expend their furrs there: That He (William Walker) and another man afsisted by an Indian went in a Canoe and met the Indians some distance above; on near meeting a Canoe of them came forward and asked whether they were frenchmen or Not, Them and the rest having their Bows bent and Arrows in readinefs to have killed them, as they pretended if they had been French: Notwithstanding their pretences, an Indian arriving that Night who had been sent up by the Pedlers to meet them with a two Gallon Keg of Liquor, they recieved it and gave Him Furrs in return. William Walker informs me that the Master Pedlers have paid them some visits, and were seemingly so very obliging that there was no behaving indifferently to them; They even offered the Use of one of their empty Houses, but this William Tomison prudently refused. I have recieved 218 made Beaver traded by William Tomison and 134 made Beaver traded by Robert Longmore in the Spring. Consisting wholly of Coat and Parchment Beaver and Wolf Skins."
June 8
" Sunday Wind NW A Strong Gale Weather most part Cloudy at Noon a little Hail. Read Divine Service."
June 9
" Monday Wind the same but lefs clear Weather. Sent two men with an Indian to set Nets for fish, and the remainder Packing Furrs. Fifteen Canoes of Basquio Indians arrived to afsist in carrying down Furrs. One Canoe of Indians also arrived from above, they informed me that our People were near and expected to arrived tomorrow. They mentioned a report having been recieved of a third Pedlers man being murdered by the Natives; The reason given for the Indians committing these cruel deeds are, that the Pedlers have traded their Goods at an exorbitant rate, particularly last Winter; The Natives having recieved little or nothing for their Furrs, and some of them have been beaten and otherwise maletreated when at the Pedlers Settlement."
June 10
" Tuesday Wind variable clear Weather. The Men employed as yesterday. The two men abroad brought a few Fish from the Nets and returned for them again. In the Evening Mr William Tomison and all the Men with Him arrived; They brought 729 made Beaver, consisting of Coat and parchment Beaver and Wolf Skins, which with 218 made Beaver before recieved, make 947 made Beaver recieved by the inland Expedition, in return for 493 Beaver in trading Goods expended there. They also brought 90 lb Fat and 40 lb half dried Buffalo Flesh traded there, also 86 lb Beat meat and Fat mixed. A seasonable Help having only seven Days dried Moofe Flesh & three Days Fat before in Hand. Robert Longmore had according to my directions to him when here in the Winter, provided some Provision in the Spring to bring down, but afterwards being in want they were obliged to eat it up. - They likewise brought six large Canoes built as before mentioned by Indians who were Tenting with our men, and which I have Traded. Three Canoes of Indians arrived with them from above, (two of them Afsinnee Poet) who propose to afsist in carrying furrs to York Fort: Several Canoes of Indians also arrived with them from above who generally Spend their Summers in the Lakes, these brought Nothing with them. - William Tomison informs me, that the Afsinnee Poet Indians on their Arrival refused to proceed further, and traded some of their Furrs with Him, but much the greater part with the Pedlers Except Bayonets He having but little Iron work, Guns & Kettles, and the Pedlers having plenty to serve them; The Pedler gave large presents and traded very low which obliged William Tomison to lower is intended Standard so as to undersell them; besides the emulation between him and the Pedlers, there were two different Interests among the Pedlers themselves, having on some differences seperated Partnership awhile before. William Tomison also informs me; that the Pedlers have all come down from the Settlement and are gone past having accompanied Him part of the way. They mentioned that some of their People abroad with the Natives had not returned, also that they had heard of a Third man being murdered, but this wanted confirmation. - Robert Longmore has informed me that in the Spring Accounts had been brought to them by Indians who had been in at the Pedlers Settlements, of the Master Pedlers having threatened to come with a Body of Men and murder the English and all Indians with them; and that in consequence thereof the Natives with them, were through fear proposing to decamp and not build Canoes; But one Indian declaring himself not afraid and his resolution to remain where he was, proposing to keep a good look out. The rest were by that means prevented on not to remove: On the Master Pedlers being ? with these reports they all denied with great afseverations their having ever made such Threats; But that some of their men did threaten to murder Charles Isham, pretending to suspect that He by instilling bad Notions into the minds of the Natives to their prejudice had been some cause of their fellows being murdered, and therefore they begged on that Account that Charles Isham might be kept out of the Way, declaring that they had not command over their men Sufficient, to prevent their doing what mischief they liked. - The Indians are certainly great Lyers, having been often known to carry false reports between People of different Interests; but Robert Longmore says, that the above reports had been brought by several different Indians and from that He is lead to suspect that the Master Pedlers did realy make such declarations, for some sinister Intent either of causing the Natives to murder them themselves, or some other design, and that He did now as he came down declare his Opinion to that purport to the Masters Pedlers - William Tomison informs me; that He recieved no ill Behaviour from any Indians since his being away except from an Indian called Mameek-Athinnee (one of those employed to Afsist in the Journey) He having seized William Tomison by the Collar and tore his Waistcoat down to the Bottom. This Indian had been guilty of ill Behaviour to me in the Spring when in Liquor, and for which I did cause him to be turned forcibly Out, a little while after on the same day as William Tomison was letting in an Indian at the Gate, This Man came up & seized hold of his Hair and Struck at him but William Tomison disengaged him and threw him down, from this time I had resolved never to show favour to or employ this Indian, but as William Tomison and William Walker were desirous to have Him to Afsist in the Journey on Account of his being the most Active and had the best knowledge of the easiest places for Stemming the Current in the Pafsage up; and indeed the only one willing to go except the three engaged with Him. I did therefore on his seeming contrition and promise of future good behaviour engage Him. I have paid this Indian for his Afsistance according to agreement, Telling him That I will Trade any furrs He may bring as from any other Indian in future, but that I have no further Service for Him on any other Occasion."
June 11
" Wednesday Wind NW A fresh gale Weather variable Thunder and a little Rain. The Men employed packing furrs. The Men abroad fishing brought some Fish and returned again for the Nets."
June 12
" Thursday Calm variable Weather. The Men abroad returned with the Nets and a few Fish, finished packing Furrs. Paid the Indians to carry Bundles and gave a little Supply of Provisions to the men to be sent with them; also gave William Tomison a Supply of Ammunition and Tobacco for the Journey, likewise Ammunition & Tobacco to one Man who is going a seperate way. I have appointed six Men to remain Here when I may go away. Viz. William Walker in Charge, Magnus Twatt, Robert Davey, Magnus Sclater, William Grey and John Driver. - Robert Longmore and the Men who were with Him Inland, having been necefsiated to part with several of their own necefsaries to oblige Indians I have therefore to make up their Lofses Given Robert Longmore for himself and the rest some Trading Goods as necefsaries in return."
June 13
" Friday Weather as yesterday. Six Canoes of Pigogomew Indians arrived with a few Furrs to Trade. These have Wintered to the Southward. I sent off 76 Bundles of Furrs &c for York Fort by nineeen Canoes of Indians, under the care of Mr William Tomison and seven more men; These are going down the Sea Lake Track: Also sent off twelve Bundles of Furrs under the care of James Wafs by three Canoes of Indians who are going down the Streight or Spruce River Track."
"Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Humphrey Marten
Cumberland House 13th April 1777
Good Sir,
The People sent up Saskachiwan River being returned I have taken the first Opportunity of sending down Furrs. The present Company Nineteen Canoes Indians and English have got seventy six Bundles, Contents as pr Account; under the care of Mr William Tomison and seven more Men. These are going down the sea Lake Track. I have now also sent Twelve Bundles of Furrs by three Canoes of Indians who are going down Menihaque? River the Pigogomew Indians Track; I have sent one Man with them: The Affinnee Poet Indian who left a Keg of Powder in Steel River in the Pafsage up last Summer is one of them; As it was left so near to York Fort, I have directed it to be taken down again Sir to you to be examined. I have also directed William Tomison to send Isaac Batt to look after the Goods formerly laid up in the Ceder Lake He being then present. Charles Isham as I am informed having looked in the wrong place last Summer in the Pafsage up. I shall now have no trade left in Hand, but six Canoes of Pigogomew Indians are now arrived with a triffle.
I have appointed the following Person's to Remain at the House when I may sett off for York Fort, Viz. William Walker in Charge, Robert Davey, Magnus Twatt, Magnus Sclater, William Grey and John Driver: Such of them whose times expire next year have given their resolves Viz. William Walker is desirous to Contract for three years at 25 £ pr Annum, Magnus Sclater, William Grey and John Driver each for three years at 15 £ pr Annum or Home. Robert Davey whose Contract also expires next year, is at present abroad.
I have paid all the Indians now sent off three Beaver for every large Bundle and two Beaver for every small Bundle.
I have Sir inclosed the Indent of Trading Goods Stores &c Which please to enlarge or lefsen proportionally as you may find convenient. The present Indent I have supposed to be necefsary for serving this Place and also men sent from it to Trade as hitherto; But if an early out Settlement is intended to be made several of the Articles of Goods & Stores will be require to be increased.
The Pedlers have left all their Settlements up the River Saskachiwan above here and are gone past but they have mentioned their intending to return to the lower one next fall. Mr William Tomison & William Walker on their late Journey up have been very Active in endeavouring to prevent Indians Trading there; I have recieved 947 made Beaver in Furrs by their Expedition, not a Skin of which would most probably have ever been brought to this Place or York Fort otherwise.
I remain
Good Sir
Your most obliged
& most obedient Servant
Matthew Cocking"
June 14
" Saturday Wind NW A Strong Gale Weather cloudy until with a little Rain at times. The Men employed in Necefsary Works. Traded with the Indians who arrived yesterday."
June 15
" Sunday Wind & Weather the same. Read Divine Service. Great swell in the Lake prevents the Indians going away."
June 16
" Monday Wind the same but lefs clear Weather. The Pigogomew Indians went away. Also most of those who were here before; the last intending to go to the Places for killing Sturgeon and also to hunt Moofe, they Promised to bring in Provision as soon as they could procure it. The Men employed. One net mending. One doing little Jobs in the Carpenters way. One man employed in the Garden, And Robert Longmore afsisted by one man preparing Wood Work for a Canoe in addition to some provided by them last Summer. Robert Longmore being unexpectedly prevented by other Works from providing Birch Rind to bring down from above for the Canoe. I have therefore engaged an Indian to fetch Birch Rhind for that purpose."
June 17
" Tuesday Wind North A fresh breeze at times clear Weather. Sent William Walker with two men to set the fishing Nets and one man employed in the Garden, another afsisting Robert Longmore, and a Third Net mending: William Walker alone returned in the Evening. The Remainder of the Indians went off except part of the families of the two Canoes gone to the Northward as mentioned the 29th Ult. - I have been informed by Magnus Sclater and John Driver that Andrew Garret the Carpenter (one of those last sent down) did endeavour all in his Power to perswade any men whom I might appoint to stay after I should go down, to declare against it; As an incentive telling them that any who should remain would certainly be in much danger from the attempts of Indians; And since the Account of the Pedlers Men being murdered was recieved He has repeated this as a Proof; And that any men who might hereafter be sent up above to make a Settlement would most probably be murdered; John Driver further added, that Andrew Garret advised any who might be compelled to stay to deny all Duty to induce them to be sent down. I have also been informed by Robert Longmore that when here last Winter from above, he was desired by Andrew Garret to perswade Isaac Batt not to come here or endeavour to return into the Companys Service; for if he did return He would certainly be sent to England for his breach of Contract. But Robert Longmore declined carrying any such mefsage; When Garret said, He himself expected to be one of those who might be appointed to go up with Goods in the Spring and would then do his endeavours for that purpose. - This Mans repeated attempts to do Mischief compels me to insert the above here, and also of my having often been informed of his private Attempts to infuse a Spirit of discontent into the other men: He is concious that is ill Behaviour when William Walker was in Charge last Summer, and last fall to me after my Arrival, deserves to be reported; And therefore as on that Account He expects not to be sent up again. He has malecontendedly endeavoured to impede the Company's Affairs: Since his ill Behaviour last fall he has seemed obedient to me, but privately made the above attempts, and obviously protracted his Work whenever he happened to be in his ill Humours. Andrew Garrets ill Behaviour to me was on account if my having made an Alteration in the Watch Bill by erasing William Walker's Name; this I did as he would be wanted for extraordinary Service to afsist together with William Tomison in attending Indians Whenever they Arrived; The same Evening having heard Andrew Garret murmuring I demanded the cause. When he told me that He would not work & Watch when others were kept off and telling me He thought none had a right to be excused from Watching except myself: I did repeatedly tell Him that I would excuse any one whom I chused from Watching, even a Labourer; and that I would compel Him to Watch and to do his Duty notwithstanding; When He repeatedly said He would not comply with my Orders; however he has not thought proper to keep his Word, being a cautious ill designing Person. - Since the Writing of this, I have also recieved information that through this mans Intreagues and Perswasions, Fish that had been caught in the Nets in the Spring were often set at large, particularly one day no lefs then ten Sturgeon being returned into the Lake: John Driver (the Person from whom I have recieved this information) says that Mitchel Omen and Robert Davey were with him that day at the Nets. That Omen & Davey drew the Net whilst He held a Line fixed to the other end; that on observing them to return the fish into the Water He called to them to desist, but supposed they might not hear him being a fresh breeze of Wind from them; That He did propose then and Since to acquaint me, but was intimidated by Garret threatening that He himself & the rest would do him ill offices if he did acquaint me. Magnus Sclater and John Driver have informed me that the whole of Andrew Garrets private discourses always tended to infuse discontent into the men, and that being fearful of causing continual disturbances prevented their acquainting me at the times."
June 18
" Wednesday Wind & Weather variable. The Men employed as yesterday. A Canoe of Indians arrived with a little fresh Moofe Flesh whch I traded, and they went away."
June 19
" Thursday Wind East Weather Cloudy with some Rain. The Fishermen came Home with only three small fish. They left the Nets standing."
June 20
" Friday Wind & Weather variable. Sent the two fishermen to remove the Nets to another Place. The rest of the men employed as before."
June 21
" Saturday Wind NW clear Weather. The Fishermen returned with only one large Pike."
June 22
" Sunday Wind SE Weather first part Clear afterwards Cloudy with Rain. Read Divine Service."
June 23
" Monday Wind East Weather variable. Robert Longmore afsisted by one man providing Wood work for the Canoe. Two Men clearing the Ground round the Works. Sent two Men to the Nets who returned with three Sturgeon and four Pike; I sent them off again to attend the Nets to prevent the Indians robbing them."
June 24
" Tuesday Wind East A fresh gale Cloudy Weather with small Rain most of the Day."
June 25
" Wednesday Wind variable Weather cloudy with small Rain. The two Fishermen returned, no Succefs, they brought home the Nets."
June 26
" Thursday Wind West clear Weather. Robert Longmore with two men employed as before. One man Net mending and two men Digging in the Celler of the Victualing Shed so as the floor above may be lowered, being too high above the Surface of the Earth."
June 27
" Friday Wind West Weather most part Clear. One man net mending. Sent two men to Set Nets, and two men Afsisting Robert Longmore who is setting up the Canoe, afsisted also by the Indians. A Canoe of Indians Arrived with a little fresh Moofe Flesh which I traded."
June 28
" Saturday Wind variable clear Weather. The fishermen returned from the Nets no Succefs. in the Evening the two Canoes of Indians sent to the Northward with Robert Davey as mentioned the 29th Ult. arrived; twelve Canoes of A'thopuskow Indians Also arrived with them to Trade here, part of them those who were here last year; Also some more Canoes Arrived met with near here, part of which are come according to promise to carry down Furrs and bring up Goods. - Robert Davey gave me the following Account of their proceedings in the Journey, Viz. That on the eight Day from here they reached the Pedlers Settlement in Mifsinnippee River to which all the Pedlers were removed from the Beaver Lake; Here the Leader contrary to his promise to me landed; the same day Robert Davey recieved three Mefsages from Frobisher desiring Him to come in, But he excused himself; The Next day Frobisher Himself came, and was so prefsing for him to come in that He could not refuse any longer to Comply; Robert Davey accordingly went in, and partook of a little food and a Pot of Liquor and then took his leave. On this visit Frobisher offered Robert Davy any Afsistance that He might want of Food &c but which He excused himself from accepting, not being in want; Frobisher also afsured Robert Davey, that none of their men should use Him ill, telling Him that He was Welcome to Trade any Furrs then that He could or when the Indians might come down, but that He Himself was not wanting to make his fortune immediately and therefore would enlarge so much on Presents as to prevent any Indians accompanying Him here, except one man might who was here last year and To this Robert Davey returned; that He thought their men had no right to use Him ill, and that He would do his best endeavours for the Interests of his Masters (The next day being the tenth day from here), Robert Davey and his company embarked, proceeding by Short Stages up the River. The Indians Hunting as they went; On the fourth day they were overtaken by a Canoe of the Pedlers loaded with Goods, Frobisher being with them; and notwithstanding the Pedlers paddled briskly, they kept up with them and lay near them at Night; In this manner they proceeded four days more; when they met the Indians, Twenty-eight Canoes; but previous to this they the day before met a Canoe of Indians bringing a packet for Frobisher, and soon after Lewis Primo with others in their own Canoes loaded with Furrs, three more of the same, seemingly well loaded, arrived with the Indians; One of them a new One built for them by the Indians, two more those who went up last Summer, and the fourth one of the old ones mended up which were said last year to be expended. On meeting the Indians, every one landed and Frobisher immediately cloathed Robert Davey's Leader & Wife and intoxicated him with Liquor to prevent his exerting himself: However the Indians traded Robert Daveys Liquor, Tobacco, and some of the other Articles, some of them at the same time Trading with the Pedlers; The next morning Robert Daveys Leader invited the Indians to his Tent and smoaked with them, endeavouring to perswade them to come here to Trade; This was complied with by those now Arrived: The next day the Pedlers proceeded on their return to the lower House. The Indians who had traded with them returning for their own Country; Robert Davey and those who proposed to accompany Him Also set off on their way here, when arrived near the Pedlers Settlement they crofsed to the Opposite Side of the River to a Carrying Place they had to pafs over, where they had landed their Furrs and were taking their Canoes out of the Water when they perceived a Pedlers Canoe coming acrofs, when they embarked in the empty Canoes and went to meet them having left their furrs at the Carrying Place with Robert Davey alone. On meeting the Pedlers, after a little Conversation they all proceeded to the Settlement and remained there that night; The next day the Indians returned again to Robert Davey as empty as they went, saying that the Pedlers would give them nothing without the Furrs were carried there, and accordingly they proceeded immediately on their way here. I have recieved 175 made Beaver in Furrs from Robert Davey in return for 73 Beaver of trading Goods expended by Him. what Goods remained He brought back."
[In the margin " NB. If Frobisher is to be believed He has already acquired a competent fortune. Isaac Batt when here having informed me that He has heard Frobisher declare that last year being the fifth? his gains were in the whole increased to 9000 £ & upwards and this is seemingly not to be discreditted when the large Quantities of Furrs carried down by Him are considered. Isaac Batt Also informed me that Blaundo who acted this year as an Interpreter and Trader has two Hundred Pounds Salary befides other emoluments. ??"]
June 29
" Sunday Wind North a strong Gale Weather Cloudy with Rain at times. Trading Liquor with the Indians."
June 30
" Monday Wind NE A Strong Gale with continued Rain. Smoaked and Traded with the Indians giving them Presents as incouragement. They inform me that several Canoes of their Countrymen expended all the Remainder of their Furrs at the Pedlers Settlement up Beaver River and went back, having traded great part there in the Winter. That most of those who traded with the Pedlers after they met Robert Davey (Sixteen Canoes) had but few Furrs left, and therefore thought it needlefs to come Here. The last Account Robert Davey has confirmed, having observed only one man to have a quantity of Furrs considerable, part of which He traded with Robert Davey for Tobacco. - Two Canoes of the Indians now arrived are but poorly Gooded saying that as they wintered near the Pedlers Settlement they had not discretion to keep their Furs, notwithstanding the Pedlers having traded at an exorbitant Rate; The rest of the Indians now Arrived were well gooded. I have traded 688 made Beaver in Furrs which added to 175 mentioned to be recieved yesterday from Robert Davey, make 863 made Beaver recieved by this Expedition, almost wholly Coat and parchment Beaver. They had no Cats the Yeachithinnee Indians in Friendship with them from whom they used to recieve Cats, having been at War and killed but few Furrs, but expect to recieve many of that kind next year. - These Indians are very anxious to have the Company make a Settlement in their Country, saying that no other method can prevent the Pedlers carrying away most of their Furrs. I have in my late Journal of the 2d of July inserted my Opinion of the necefsity of the Company's making out Settlements. To which I refer for particulars that are unnecefsary to be repeated here. What has happened this year seemingly proves that if the Company had convenience of Carriage to Transport their Goods, the Pedlers would soon be ruined; For the Company's Goods may be traded at such a Rate as to undersell them much in most Articles; and yet produce so large an Overplufs above the Standard, as to confiderably reduce the additional Expence incurred by their Inland Expeditions: What little progrefs has been already made in the Company's Inland affairs I am convinced has considerably affected the Pedlers Interests; for notwithstanding the Furrs acquired by the Company are triffling compared to what they carry away; yet in the Spring they are obliged to Trade so low and give such large presents as must greatly reduce their Proffits. Of the Indians now here two were cloathed and with the rest of their Company had considerable presents given them by the Pedlers; but they Traded nothing with them afterwards as I am informed by Robert Davey. - The Leader whom I sent with Robert Davey is one of the Grafs River Indians, mentioned last year to be warring to the Northward and arrived late last Summer. On his way here he met the A'thopuskow Indians who had been been here, and who declared their intentions of coming again with as many of their Countrymen as they could perswade to accompany them; And requested He would meet them this Summer with Supplies of Ammuntion, proposing to embark in Canoes and come here as soon as pofsible; This compelled me to send all the Goods that could be spared under the care of one Man only, as mentioned in my Letter to Mr Humphrey Marten the 28th Ult: Indeed if there had been more spare men to send I could not have increased the Quantity of Goods; for the Stock obliged to be sent by Mr William Tomison up Saskachiwan River, difabled me from sending more without distrefsing this Place, by leaving it empty (particularly Brandy and Tobacco) and by that means disabling the Person to be left in Charge from procuring Provisions after I may go down, If the Goods sent abroad should be all expended Brandy & Tobacco being almost the only Articles which Induce the Natives to bring in Provisons. The Spring being so backward has retarded our Opperations, otherwise the men would have returned in time (as last year) to send them."
July 1 1777
" Tuesday Wind & Weather as yesterday. The Men employed packing Furrs - I have reprimanded Robert Davey for throwing away Fish (mentioned the 17th Ult.) telling him I should report Him. In excuse He pretended that through Andrew Garrets perswasions together with James Batt. He was induced to do it, and confirmed the Account I had before Recieved of Andrew Garrets continually endeavouring to make the Men discontented; notwithstanding this excuse is no extenuation of Davey's Fault yet it is another proof of the ill designs that have been practised by Garret."
July 2
" Wednesday Wind & Weather the same until the Afternoon then lefs Wind with little Rain. The A'thopuskow Indians yet detained here; We are also yet prevented from getting to the Nets. I am informed that the Pedler Frobisher with seven Canoes lay last night at the Head of the little River below here, and is supposed to have proceeded down it this morning to Saskachiwan River The Information was brought by an Indian who arrived here by Land last night and returned; Sent (as I suppose) to spy how matters went here: As the Pedler had to come partly before the Wind on entering this Lake, is the reason of their being able to proceed in the late bad weather."
July 3
" Thursday Calm clear Weather. Sent two men to fetch Home the Nets, who returned with four Sturgeon. The A'thopuskow Indians went away. They are going another way back through a Streight but shallow Track. One of the Company, an Indian formerly belonging to this part being acquainted with that Road did promise to guide them; However He changed his mind and is returned by the way he came, pretending he did not like the Shallownefs of the other. The rest however (having recieved directions from Him by a Draught laid down in their manner) are gone that way, proposing to come here the same way next Summer to avoid seeing the Pedlers."
July 4
" Friday Wind & Weather as yesterday. The Men employed. Robert Longmore finishing the Canoe. It is four foot four in Length. Three foot four in Breadth and Nineteen Inches in Depth.[That's some canoe] One man net mending, Three men clearing the Plantation round the works and two men sent to set Nets. Paid Indians to carry furrs and Examined the remains of Trading Goods, Stores and Provisions recieving a Recciept for them from William Walker. I propose to proceed tomorrow on my Journey for York Fort."
"Errors Excepted
Matthew Cocking"
B.49/a/4
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