" A Journal of the most remarkable Transactions and Occurrences at Cumberland House from 5th July 1777 to 1st July 1778 By Mr William Tomison Master"
[cover]


" By William Walker"

July 5 1777
" Saturday Wind Westerly a fine breeze clear Weather. at ten o'Clock in the forenoon Mr Matthew Cocking embarked for York Fort accompanied by eight Canoes with thirty four bundles, left all in good condition and taken in Charge by William Walker. also one Canoe of Indians went to hunt Moose; The men employ'd in necefsary duty about the House. in the morning the two Fishermen returned from the Nets with only one small Pike."

July 6
" Sunday Wind South fine clear Weather. Read divine service. At noon arrived one Canoe with some fresh Moose flesh which I traded and they went off again."

July 7
" Monday Wind South till Noon with hot Sultry Weather and afterwards cloudy with squally rainey Weather. In the Evening one Canoe arrived brought some Moose flesh but it being a little tainted I did refuse taking of it, being that we was stocked with a fresh supply of fresh Moose flesh the day before. Two Men digging the Scellor. two men went to look at the fishing Nets; return'd with two fish and one Man Net mending."

July 8
" Tuesday Wind Southerly hot sultry Weather but towards Evening cloudy with Thunder and Rain; the Canoe that arrived last Night went away. I sent two Men with them acrofs the Lake with two Nets to kill Sturgeon as the Indians say they are very plentiful in a River there; at noon arrived a Canoe of Cow on atow Indians who brought a few Furrs which I traded and promised he would come again in the Fall with some more of his Countrymen to accompany him. however I gave him all the encouragement this place could afford. John Draver laying in of a Veneral disease. Myself and one Man went and took up the Nets had middling Succefs, and one Man employ'd about necefsary duty about the House."

July 9
" Wednesday Wind variable hot and very sultry the Indians that arrived Yesterday went away. the Men employ'd one Net mending and two digging the Scellor. our Tools not being fit for the Jobb make it very tedious."

July 10
" Thursday Wind as Yesterday with Thunder & Rain. The Men employ'd as before. two fishermen that went away on the 8th Instant return'd with only one Fish and saying that the place would be dangerous to venture to go to being that a storm should brake out upon them when paddling in the Lake on account of no place to put ashore on."

July 11
" Friday Wind NW Cloudy hot sultry Weather. the Men employed. two digging the Scellor. two in lowring the Victualing Shed floor, and one Net mending."

July 12
" Saturday Wind NE Cloudy Weather with Rain. The Men employed. two in lowering the Victualing Shed floor. two digging the Scellor and one Man John Draver laying in."

July 13
" Sunday Wind NE Cloudy rainey Weather Read Divine Service."

July 14
" Monday Wind NW a stiff breeze cloudy Weather. The Men employ'd two in laying sleepers for to lay the upper floor of the Victualing Shed. two Men digging and one Man making Pegs for laying the said floor."

July 15
" Tuesday Wind NE sometimes clear othertimes Cloudy Weather with Rain. two Men employ'd working in the Scellor. one Man and myself setting three Sturgeon Nets above seven miles below the House. one Man doing odd Jobbs about the House and one Man John Draver laying in with the Veneral disease. in the Evening one Canoe arrived brought some Furrs from the Westward from a place called Yach a thinue River a place hard by their Country and there he as been remaining some years past. He is one of these lower Country Indians."

July 16
" Wednesday Wind variable clear Weather. The men employed. two working in the Scellor. two Men sent to the Nets and one Man still laying in."

July 17
" Thursday Wind variable cloudy Weather. The men employ'd three in the Scellor. one man and myself went to the Nets had very poor luck only caught one Fish. in the Evening four Canoes arrived from the Southward brought a few Furrs being that there is no Pedlers dwelling above they where obliged to come here. the furrs they brought being triffling where hardly worth their trouble, and the main Article they came for was the Tobacco. I was obliged to give them some small encouragement thinking they might come this way another time. they inform me that they think they will be some more of their Countrymen down this Fall with a supply of Provisions."

July 18
" Friday Wind NW blowed very hard clear Weather. The Men employ'd three in the Scellor and two Men sent to the Nets; the Indians that came Yesterday traded being triffling what they brought was hardly worth their coming with so far. I was obliged to give them some little encouragement that they might come again."

July 19
" Saturday Wind and Weather the same till noon then calmed and the Indians that arrived on the 17 Instant went away promising that some of them will be here again in the Fall with provisions. the Men employ'd two in the Sellor and two in cutting down Wood for flooring it; one Man laying ill as before."

July 20
"Sunday Wind variable fine Weather. Read divine service. at Noon arrived three Canoes brought a little Provision and got Drunk."

July 21
" Monday Wind variable fine pleasant Weather. the Indians that came Yesterday traded what they brought and went away: the Men employed two in flooring the Cellar two in looking at the fishing Nets but very little Luck from them. and one Man smoak drying some Victuals for preservation, of what the Indians lately brought in."

July 22
" Tuesday Wind Westerly fine breeze most of the day but towards Evening blowed very hard with Rain. the Men employed two in flooring the Cellar two a clearing the Yard and one Man drying Meat as before."

July 23
" Wednesday Wind NW blowed very hard with Rain. the Men employ'd two a flooring the Cellar which they finished. two a doing necefsary Jobbs in Doors."

July 24
" Thursday Wind Westerly clear fine Weather. the Men employed. two in flooring the upper apartment in the Victualling Shed. two went to the Nets middling Succefs and one man laying by with a Veneral disease as before mentioned."

July 25
" Friday Wind NW a fresh breeze sometimes Cloudy othertimes clear. The Men employ'd two finished the upper flooring of the Victualing Shed. two a falling wood for drying against the Winter and one Man yet ailing."

July 26
" Saturday Wind NW a stiff breeze prevented the People from going to the Nets the Men employ'd one man doing odd Jobbs about the House. three men falling firewood as before and one Man ailing."

July 27
" Sunday Wind Southerly clear moderate Weather Read divine Service."

July 28
" Monday Wind Varible hot sultry Weather. The people employ'd. one Man doing odd Jobbs about the House. one Man cutting up fire wood. two Men to the Nets and one Man yet ailing as before."

July 29
" Tuesday Wind variable a middling stiff breeze. The Men employed. one man doing odd Jobbs about the House two a falling firewood. one Man ailing as before. one Man and myself at the Nets but very little Succefs."

July 30
" Wednesday Wind NW a stiff breeze clear Weather. The Men employ'd. one Man in doing odd Jobbs in the Carpentering businefs about the House. the rest falling of Firewood. at noon two Canoes arrived of Pi,go,go,mew Indians brought a little Provision traded and went away."

July 31
" Thursday Wind Westerly a moderate breeze clear Weather. The men employed. one in cleaning Pistols one in Cutting fire wood. one in drying some Moose flesh and two Men at the Nets who return'd with middling Succefs. four Canoes arrived brought a little Moose flesh."

Aug. 1 1777
" Friday Wind Westerly a middling stiff breeze Cloudy hot sultry Weather. The Canoes that arrived Yesterday went away. the Men employed three in falling firewood. one Man yet ailing and one Man doing Necefsary Jobbs about the House. One Canoe arrived brought a little provision."

Aug. 2
" Saturday Wind variable clear Weather. the Men employ'd. two in falling firewood. two at the fishing Nets return'd with very little Succefs. and one man John Draver laying in of a Veneral disease as before."

Aug. 3
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday read divine service. the Canoe that arrived on Friday went away."

Aug. 4
" Monday Wind variable a stiff breeze cloudy Weather. the Men employed two in cleaning the Plantation of the Stumps of trees and two at the fishing Nets return'd without any Succefs and one Man laying in as before."

Aug. 5
" Tuesday Wind variable a stiff breeze sometimes Cloudy other times clear. the Men employed falling firewood and one Man Net mending."

Aug. 6
" Wednesday Wind NW a stiff breeze with Rain. The Men employed as Yesterday."

Aug. 7
" Thursday Wind NW blowed very hard with Rain till Noon then calmed. when an Indian Canoe arrived loaded with Provisions, they traded and went away in the Evening. the Men employed doing necefsary Jobbs within doors. In the Evening two Canoes of Cow,an,otow Indians arrived brought a few Furrs. twelve days coming here but there being no House nearer hand them that was inhabited or else they would not have come this distance to have traded here."

Aug. 8
" Friday Wind NW a middling stiff breeze sometimes clear other times Cloudy with Rain at times. the Men employed. two at the fishing Nets. two a falling firewood for drying for the Winter use. Myself trading with the Indians and gave them some small presents as incouragement being that they had come so far thinking that it may be a means of inducing them and some of their Countrymen to come another time which they have promised; but I know very well that if the Frenchmen had been dwelling any way near hand them they would not have come this Length."

Aug. 9
" Saturday Wind Southerly a fine moderate breeze clear Weather. Three men employed falling firewood. One Man mending a fishing Net lately taken up and one Man smoak drying some meat. at Noon arrived nine Canoes brought some dryed and green Moose flesh which I traded."

Aug. 10
" Sunday Wind Easterly cloudy Weather read divine service."

Aug. 11
" Monday Wind NE a middling stiff breeze clear Weather till the Evening then cloudy with Rain. The men employed. two at the Nets one Net mending. one Wood falling and one smoak drying some Victuals for preservation; In the Evening four Canoes arrived brought a liitle dried Provisions. the Indians that came on Saturday went away."

Aug. 12
" Tuesday Wind NW a stiff breeze with Rain at times. The men employed falling firewood and one Man smoak drying some Victuals of what the Indians brought that came Yesterday."

Aug. 13
" Wednesday Wind Variable a middling stiff breeze cloudy Weather. The Men employed two in falling firewood. one making Wooden shovels and one Net mending."

Aug. 14
" Thursday Wind Westerly moderate fine clear Weather. The Men employed two a falling Firewood. two at the Fishing Nets but very little Succefs. and one man yet ailing as before mentioned."

Aug. 15
" Friday Wind as Yesterday Weather clear and sultry. Two Men falling Firewood. two Men a hunting but got nothing only one small Duck. and one man Net mending."

Aug. 16
" Saturday Wind Westerly a middling stiff breeze clear Weather. The Men employed. two in falling Firewood and two at the Nets. one man yet ailing."

Aug. 17
" Sunday Wind NW a stiff breeze clear Weather. Read Divine Service."

Aug. 18
" Monday Wind the same Yesterday clear Weather. The Men employed falling Firewood."

Aug. 19
" Tuesday Wind the same as Yesterday but calmer clear Weather. the Men employed two in falling timber two at the Nets and one Man yet ailing: at Noon arrived five Canoes lately come from War brought some Furrs which I denied trading for Liquor, except a little just for a small drink because my Stock is small. I am obliged to preserve it for Provisions, for as yet I have but a small stock considering the Season of the Year. The Indians that pitches here abouts have been almost Starving and but very indifferent Luck of Fish owing to the great Swell of Water in the Lakes. one Canoe arrived from the Factory brought three Bundles and being that he was good man I gave him a small drink for his good Behaviour. He informed me of four Canoes accompanied by an Englishman and that they will arrive the day after to morrow."

Aug. 20
" Wednesday Wind variable clear mild Weather. The Men employed doing Necefsary Jobbs about the House. myself and one Man buisy trading with the Indians that arrived yesterday. gave them some small presents as encouragement for coming and they promised they would come again."

Aug. 21
" Thursday Wind variable a fine clear day. the Men employed. two in falling Firewood and two at the Fishing Nets, but return'd without Luck. at noon arrived two Canoes of As.sin.nee. Poet Indians accompanied by one Englishman Edward Lieutit with five Bundles and one Keg of Powder from the Factory. I have paid the Ind. for their trouble. the Canoe that arrived Yesterday went away. The Goods seemingly all in good Condition. One Canoe that accompanied them from the Factory as not arrived."

Aug. 22
" Friday Wind Westerly moderate fine Weather. the Men employ'd two at the fishing Nets who returned with two Fish and two Men along with me opening the Packages that was brought the 19th & 21st from York Fort found all to answer the Invoice and in good Condition but one Canoe that did accompany them from the Factory has not yet arrived, they parted in a Lake called the White Lake about five days paddle from here; the two that arrived Yesterday went away. Myself trading with an Indian that has been waiting for our people's arriving from the Fort with Brandy but now He has traded other kind of Goods and is going away to morrow."

Aug. 23
" Saturday Wind Variable moderate clear Weather. The Men employed. two at the Fishing Nets. One Net mending. one getting Wood for hand barrows, and one Man yet ailing as before mentioned: In the Evening three Canoes of Beaver River Indians arrived brought a little Buffalo flesh; Fat and some Furrs part of which I traded and they got drunk."

Aug. 24
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Read divine Service. Six Canoes of Indians arrived brought nothing but their Lumber being most of them Superanuated People and Young Children. Six tents of Indians upon our Plantation."

Aug. 25
" Monday Wind Westerly a fine breeze clear Weather. The Men employed cutting of Firewood; two at the Nets and one Net making."

Aug. 26
" Tuesday Wind and Weather the same as Yesterday. the Men employed the same as before. in the night arrived two Canoes brought some Provision with them; I was obliged to recieve it all into the House, for the Indians that are laying about the House are almost ready to eat them and their Victuals."

Aug. 27
" Wednesday Wind southerly Weather cloudy with a little Rain. The Men employed three in cutting up firewood. two at the Nets and one Man doing necefsary Jobbs about the House. The Indians that arrived last night traded what they brought and went away. At noon arrived seven Canoes brought nothing. but only came to see what they could get for nothing and to wait here for other Indians that might arrive with goods from the Factory."

Aug. 28
" Thursday Wind NW a great tempest. the Men employed three in Cutting up Firewood. two at the Nets received 2 Sturgeon; eight Tents upon our Plantation."

Aug. 29
" Friday Wind and Weather the same as Yesterday. The Men employ'd within doors and one Man ailing with a veneral Complaint."

Aug. 30
" Saturday Wind and Weather the same as Yesterday. The men still within doors, not being fit Weather for them to work out, but it calm'd a little towards Evening. One Indian arrived who came for a little Tobacco and inform'd me there was thirteen Canoes of Pi.go.go.mew Indians waiting at a carrying place till it calmed about a Mile above the House. in the Evening it calmed and they all arrived. (Thirteen Canoes) brought some dried Moose Flesh and Fat."

Aug. 31
" Sunday Wind Westerly a fine clear day. trading with the thirteen Canoes of Indians that arrived Yesterday. this day about 12 O'Clock my Liquor ended and the Indians left off trading, the Leader belonging to this Gang being a great Man, I was obliged to launch out not to disoblige him and his followers; This Man has great power over the Natives and I shall do my endeavour to gain him: This day towards Evening Mr Joseph Hansom and the Men who accompanied him arrived all well eight Canoes two of which are not arrived. also Six Canoes of Bas.qui.a Indians brought some Moose flesh. which they traded and got drunk."

---

" By Mr Joseph Hansom"

---

Sept. 1 1777
" Monday Wind Westerly and Cloudy Weather. This day took a Survey of the Trading Goods, Stores. Provisions &c remaining and finding every thing Exact I took charge of Cumberland House with all its Effects; the Indians that arrived on Saturday are still on the Plantation; The Men employed in drying the green Meat the above Indians brought."

Sept. 2
" Tuesday Little Wind Variable and Cloudy Weather. The Indians on the Plantation preparing for going away to morrow. Sent two Men to take up the Nets for to be repair'd who return'd at Noon with two Jack fish, two Carp and one Sturgeon. The rest of the Men employed in shifting the Provision: in the Evening three Canoes arrived with Provisions."

Sept. 3
" Wednesday Calm till Noon and then a fine breeze from the NW. The 13 Canoes of Pi.go.go.mew Indians set off for their own Country well pleased, and the Chief has promised to come down to Trade next spring. John Draver having the Veneral disorder Obliges me to send him down to York Fort by the Leader of the Gang that came up with me. He is unfit for Duty and has been so for some time. In the Evening one Canoe arrived with Provisions. The Men employed in drying of the Meat that came Yesterday."

" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Humphrey Martin
Dated Cumberland House 3rd Sept. 1777
Hon'd Sir
After a long and tedious Journey of Fifty three days We arrived at Cumberland House with every thing safe two Kegs of Liquor excepted. We.as.A.thi.nue and the As.sin.nee Poets arrived ten days before us with their Goods safe also the Keg of Powder left by the As.sin.nee Poet last Year. Sah.suck.yous is not yet arrived with his Goods they parted Company in the White Lake by bad Weather, but am informed by Natives that he is at Basquia with the Goods and that He is lame and not able to proceed. the first Opportunity shall send a man and Indians off in search for him. - Here has been Indians in with Provisions and some are dayly arriving which puts me in hopes of a good Stock of Victuals. William Walker has given great encouragement for Provisions &c. - On my Arrival I took a survey of the Trading Goods Stores &c. but found no deficiency. - Our present Stock of Food is dried Moose flesh 1344 lb beat meat 1041 lb Fat 407 lb: We have but very little Succefs in the fishing Nets. - John Draver having the Veneral disease obliges me to send him down with this Man He being unfit for duty, and has been for some time. Here is to the Amount of four hundred made Beaver, which was traded by William Walker from the Pi.go.go.mew, Athapuskow, and Grafs River Indians but cannot get any Indians to go down this Fall and I cannot send any by the Bearers as their Canoe is small and four of them to go in her part of the Way; With Wishing you and all under your Command Health and Happinefs, I remain
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
Joseph Hansom"

Sept. 4
" Thursday Strong Gales from the NW and dark Cloudy Weather the men employed in necefsary duty about the House. William Walker and myself opening the Packages brought up by me and found everything in good Condition excepting the Cloth which is rather damp on the outside."

Sept. 5
" Friday Little Wind Variable in the SW quarter and clear Weather. In the morning two Canoes of Upland Indians from the Buffalo Country also nine Canoes belonging to this place arrived with provision. I do not think the two Canoes of Uplanders would have come here had there been any of the Canadian Traders up above and they being in want of proper necefsarys for the Winter Obliges them to come to this Settlement. the Men employ'd as Follows, two Men a fishing William Walker and one Man a hunting the rest of the Men airing of the Cloth ? received some Wet in the coming up. in the Evening three more Canoes arrived with Provisions; also our Hunters and Fishermen but had no Luck."

Sept. 6
" Saturday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. the Men employ'd in airing our beat meat and Cloth. Myself and Will. Walker trading with the Natives. some of the Natives that has been laying about the House set off for hunting also some that arrived Yesterday. In the Evening one Canoe from the Buffalo Country with Provisions and a few Summer skins to trade for Iron work. I gave them a little encouragement as they make great promises of coming here next Spring; Caught two Sturgeon in the Nets."

Sept. 7
" Sunday A hard Gale in the SW Quarter with Thunder Lightening and hard showers of Rain. performed divine Service. One Canoe arrived from U'Basquia but brought nothing; they inform me that the Man belonging to Edward Lieutits Company remains still at U'Bas.qui.a, with the Goods safe."

Sept. 8
" Monday Wind Westerly and dark cloudy Weather. the Indian that came Yesterday set off this morning; with him I have sent two Englishmen for the Goods which I hope they will find in good condition; The Men employed in necefsary duty about the House excepting two who went to the Nets but return'd without any Luck."

Sept. 9
" Tuesday A hard Gale from the NW and dark cloudy Weather. all hands employed setting up Wood that was falled this Summer. in the Evening an Indian came to the House who informs me that there are eight Canoes of them with Provisions about ten miles off, but cannot proceed any farther till the Wind abates."

Sept. 10
" Wednesday Almost calm till Noon and then a fresh breeze Westerly; The People employed in shifting and airing the Provisions; The Eight Canoes mentioned yesterday arrived and traded some of their Cargo for Liquor. In the Evening the Natives being intoxicated where rather unruly because I would not comply with their request in giving them more Liquor gratis. On their arrival I presented them with some which I thought sufficient, but they being used so much to the great quantities given by the Canadian traders did not value it in the least although they made no Complaint on receiving it; but when Indians are intoxicated in this part of the world the more they get the more they will crave. On their getting a Cup to much they began with threatening to cut down our Stockades. I then went out pacified them as much as pofsible and desired them to desist; but they being head strong dearing fellows stood up for the Cause, especially as we are but few at the House; They thought to frighten me out of it with their threats as they do very often to the Canadian traders (these People when in with one or two Canoes are often plundered of all their Effects only for want of Menly firmnefs mixed with a little Condescension) to shew them then I disdain'd their ill humour I harrangued them in soft Words, desiring them to depart, otherwise it would be worse for them, as We always are ready to oppose any insults that may be offered to our Property, which certainly had the proper Effect, by all of them departing to their seperate tents. Magnus Twatt by sliping his foot between two Stones sprained his ancle, which is swelled much, and I am afraid will be a great detriment to him when traveling."

Sept. 11
" Thursday Little Wind Westerly and fine pleas't Weather. two Men went and took up the Nets as We have no Succefs in them lately and I cannot spare Men to attend them. there being so many Natives on the Plantation and but few hands at the House; the rest of the Men employ'd as Yesterday. the Indians trading and preparing for going away. in the Evening one Canoe arrived who informs me that the U'Basquia Leader with his tribe and Englishmen will be here to morrow with Goods from York Fort."

Sept. 12
" Friday A stiff breeze Westerly and clear Weather. The Men employed in necefsary duties about the House; At Noon Mr William Tomison.Six Englishmen and the U'Basquia Leader with his tribe arrived (in all 17 Canoes) with all the goods safe except what was expended on the Pafsage up from York Fort Viz. 16 Gallons of Brandy, Tobacco brazil 10 lb, Powder, shot, &c also Robert Longmoor and Malchom Rofs from up the North track with three Canoes, who informs me that he left the remainder of his Company yesterday. He expects they will be here to morrow. Robert Longmoor on his pafsage up expended 14 Gallons of Brandy, Powder, Shot, Tobacco &c which Goods will be inserted in the Account book."

---

" Copy of a Letter from Mr Humphrey Martin Pr Mr Tomison
Dated York Fort 21st July 1777
Sir
It being thought requisite by the Chief and Council at York Fort to have a temporary Settlement erected at or near the Moose or Buffalo hunting Grounds for the conveniences of procuring food and preventing the Indians from trading with the Upland traders. You are to give Mr William Tomison who now comes up with a large afsortment of goods all pofsible afsistance to enable him to build the same Settlement. It will be proper to send with him Isaac Batt with Powder Ball &c Magnus Twatt and as many other Men as can prudently be spared from Cumberland House, to gether with such Trading Goods, Stores &c as the said Mr William Tomison shall think necefsary the sooner this Order is executed the better; I remain Sir
Your Humble Servt.
Humphrey Martin
To the Commanding Officer at Cumberland House."

---

" Copy of a Letter from Mr Humprey Martin Per Robert Longmoor
Dated York Fort 9th August 1777
Mr Joseph Hansom
Sir
Should Mr Matthew Cocking not return to take Charge of Cumberland House in the Fall. you are to deliver the said House with every thing there to belonging to Mr William Tomison. Who we appoint Master of that Place till further Orders.
We are Sir
Your Friends & Servant
Humphrey Martin
Matthew Cocking
To Mr Joseph Hansom or the Master at Cumberland House."

Sept. 13
" Saturday wind Variable and fine pleasant Weather. the Men employ'd drying some green Meat and doing other Necefsary Jobbs. Mr William Tomison, William Walker and myself opening the Packages that recieved some Wet in coming. In the Evening the Six Canoes that Accompanied Robert Longmoor arrived also nine more with Provisions."

Sept. 14
" Sunday Wind Westerly and clear Weather. trading with the Natives and paying them off for bringing the Goods up. in the Evening nine Canoes arrived with Provisions."

Sept. 15
" Monday Wind in the NE quarter and dark Cloudy Weather. The people employed in shifting the Provisions into the out Office. at Noon four Canoes came but brought little with them. in the Evening another Canoe arrived from the Northward with Food. twenty tents of Indians on the Plantation."

Sept. 16
" Tuesday Little Wind Easterly and clear Weather. the Indians preparing for going away. Sent two Men with Nets about ten miles off to fish. the rest of the Men employed about necefsary Jobbs within doors."

Sept. 17
" Wednesday A strong Gale Northerly and dark Cloudy Weather with small Rain at times. It blowing so hard the Natives cannot go off. all hands employed in falling Wood for Stockadoes to enlarge a place to lay our Canoes up in the winter time and also in the Summer for Garden Ground."

Sept. 18
" Thursday Wind and Weather as above. the People employed as Yesterday. some of the Natives going off. four Canoes arrived from the Buffalo Country with Food. Magnus Twatt lame."

Sept. 19
" Friday Almost Calm and fine pleasant Weather. the People employed as Yesterday. some of the Natives still a going off. Ten tents of Indians on the Plantation."

Sept. 20
" Saturday Wind in the SW quarter and fine pleasant Weather. the people employed as before. the Fishermen return'd with 80 fine Tickameg. Received 15 Geese from Indians. the major part of the Natives are gone & but few on the Plantation whom I intend to employ in hunting Geese for us."

Sept. 21
" Sunday Wind Variable in the SW quarter and clear Weather. Performed divine Service. four tents of Natives on the Plantation."

Sept. 22
" Monday Little wind Variable and fine pleasant Weather. five men employed in cutting and sawing stuff for the Stockadoes. One Man making Wooden trunnels for ditto. the rest of the Men shifting the Provisions from the out Office finding it will not keep without on account of the damp Cellar below; Weigh'd our Stock of dried meat 3226 lb. This day Robert Longmoor with Edward Lieutit, James Spence and William Flatt, set off for the Buffalo Country with a sufficient quantity of Ammunition &c to supply them in the Winter; With Robert Longmoor I have sent a small afsortment of Goods to trade 82 made Beaver also for to get large Canoes. He intends to build a large one or two with the help of the other Men. Isaac Batt also set off for the said Country accompanied with his Family. He has Ammunition &c for his support in the winter time also Powder, Ball, &c to kill Buffalo for Food for our Men when they arrived there next spring and has promised to get a large Canoe made. Rec'd four Geese from Indians."

Sept. 23
" Tuesday A strong Gale Northerly with Snow and Rain. The Men employed within doors making Wooden trunnels to fasten the Stockadoes. Weighed our Stock of beat meat 2924 lb. Fatt 1720 lb and Pimmacon 100 lb."

Sept. 24
" Wednesday Wind more moderate and cloudy Weather. the People employed as before. four tents of Natives on the Plantation laying Weather bound."

Sept. 25
" Thursday Wind Easterly with Frost and snow till Noon in the Evening thaw and Rain. two Men sheevg the bark of the Stockadoes to preserve them from the Worms. two Men getting Gate posts for ditto. William Walker and one of the home Indians a hunting who returned in the Evening with Six laughing Geese. Magnus Twatt lame. The rest of the People employed in Carrying in the Remainder of the Palisadoes; Received 26 Geese from Indians."

Sept. 26
" Friday Wind Easterly and fine pleasant Weather. The People employed as Yesterday. William Walker a hunting return'd with one Goose. one Canoe arrived with 150 lb fresh Moose flesh. Received 10 Geese from Indians."

Sept. 27
" Saturday Little Wind Easterly and Cloudy Weather. the Men employed as before. traded the Meat from the Indian that came Yesterday. all the Natives off the Plantation except a few Women whose Husbands are employ'd in hunting Geese."

Sept. 28
" Sunday Almost Calm with dark Cloudy Weather and showers of Rain at times. Performed divine Service. two Canoes of Indians arrived with Provisions. Received from our hunters 15 Grey Geese."

Sept. 29
" Monday Wind in the NE quarter and dark cloudy Weather with Rain. The People employed within doors making trunnels to fasten the Stockadoes. traded the Provision the Natives brought yesterday."

Sept. 30
" Tuesday Wind at NW and dark Cloudy Weather with Snow and sleet at times. two Men sheeving of the bark from the Wood that is for Stockadoes. two Men making Gates for ditto. the rest of the Men pointing and Cutting them into Lengths ready for setting up. Mr William Tomison, William Walker and myself opening the remainder of the Packages brought from York Fort. Received from one of our Hunters 11 Geese."

Oct. 1 1777
" Wednesday Wind as Yesterday and dark Cloudy Weather. The Men employed as Yesterday. two tents of Natives on the Plantation. one Canoe arrived who informs me that four Canoes of Canadian Traders are at the little River about three miles below this. in the Evening the Master (Captain Juite) and two of his Men came to the House who I asked in and every respect used them kindly as becomes Englishmen one to another in this part of the World. They being very short of food was the reason of his coming here for to be supplied and finding them realy in want I comply'd with his request and gave him about 20 lb of dried meat 1 Bag of Pimmacon and one Bladder of Fat which they was very thankful for and Offer'd Payment for the same but I told ? the Honorable Hudsons Bay Company did not desire any such payment, only if any of their Servants should pafs their Way and be in need, hope they will Comply with the same favour. Captain Juite informs me there are seventeen Canoes gone up Sas.kash.i.wan and twenty more are coming."

Oct. 2
" Thursday Wind Easterly and dark Cloudy Weather with a hard frost. The people employed as before."

Oct. 3
" Friday Wind Easterly and dark Cloudy Weather with a sharp frost in the morning and thaw and Rain in the Evening. The people employed within doors about necefsary Jobbs. one Canoe arrived from Sas,kash,i,wan with a few Furrs. and informs me of seeing some Canadian traders; On their pafsage down they had three more Canoes in Company but meeting with them they got drunk traded what they had and returned."

Oct. 4
" Saturday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. the people employed as before except two who I sent a fishing about 30 miles off traded the goods from the Indians that came yesterday."

Oct. 5
" Sunday Wind in the NW quarter and dark cloudy Weather with sleet and snow at times. performed divine Service Received 10 Geese from one of our Indian Hunters."

Oct. 6
" Monday Little wind variable and dark cloudy Weather with a little snow last night. six people employed in fitting the Stockadoes into the upper Ribbon ready for setting up. two Men setting Nets, two Men a hunting and fishing. William Walker also a hunting returned had no Succefs, where he was a hunting in Sas.kash.i.wan, he saw fifteen of the Canadian traders Canoes on their pafsage up. they spoke him and informed him of two more Canoes being behind and two more they left a U'Bas.qui.a to Winter there so that now they have entirely surrounded Us. Viz. four Canoes at the Northward two at U'Bas.qui.a and up Sas,kash,i,wan thirty six. four Canoes of their Indians that are employed in hunting for them came past us. One Canoe arrived with provisions. Magnus Twatt lame."

Oct. 7
" Tuesday Wind in the NW quarter and dark cloudy Weather. the people employed as before. The fishermen returned brought 9 Geese and 8 Ducks but no Succefs in Fish. Two more of the Master Traders came to the House Mefs Pond and Bruce. The former was up Saskashiwan last year. the latter Wintered at U'Basquia in the Year 1773 and now are both bound for up the River. they inform us of three Canoes belonging to the Traders being lost in coming in."

Oct. 8
" Wednesday A strong Gale in the NW dark cloudy Weather. The people employed as Yesterday."

Oct. 9
" Thursday A Gentle breeze Westerly and clear Weather. Mr William Tomison and one Man set two Sturgeon Nets, also brought from our Nets before set 12 fish. Magnus Twatt still ailing. the rest of the people employed setting up the Stockadoes."

Oct. 10
" Friday Almost calm and fine pleasant Weather. William Walker and one Man a hunting. two Men sent to the Nets and return'd with one Sturgeon and eight other small fish. Magnus Twatt at work within doors. the rest of the people setting up the Stockadoes."

Oct. 11
" Saturday A fresh breeze Westerly and Cloudy Weather. The people employed as yesterday. Received nine Sturgeon and twelve Tickameg from the Nets."

Oct. 12
" Sunday Wind as Yesterday Weather more clear. performed divine Service. William Walker and the Man returned from hunting with 13 Geese and 11 Ducks; Seven Canoes of Indians arrived with a little Provision. they inform Us that some of the shoal Lakes are almost frose over; We have not seen any Ice along shore as yet."

Oct. 13
" Monday Wind variable and fine Weather. the people employed as follows. five Men Inland, six at work with the Palisadoes, two Men making trunnels for the same, two attending the fishing Nets. received two Sturgeon, three perch, and thirty two Tickameg. William Walker and one Man a hunting. some of the Natives that came Yesterday I have employed to mend our Canoes that is fit for service to be in readinefs for the Spring."

Oct. 14
" Tuesday Almost calm the first of the day, the latter part a stiff breeze Northerly and clear Weather. the people and Natives employed as Yesterday. Received from the Nets two Sturgeon 20 Tickameg and three perch."

Oct. 15
" Wednesday A strong Gale in the NE and dark cloudy Weather. the people employed in putting up the last of the Stockadoes and turning up the Earth for garden ground next Summer; received from some of the Natives whom I sent a hunting five Geese and 24 Ducks."

Oct. 16
" Thursday A strong Gale in the NE quuarter with snow and Sleet alternately. the people employed as Yesterday. Malchom Rofs ailing with a sore throat and swelled Gums."

Oct. 17
" Friday A stiff breeze from the NE and clear cold Weather with snow upon the ground, also Ice along shore. The people employed setting up the Winters feuel. William Walker and the Man returned from hunting with 19 Geese and 19 Ducks. he informs me of the small Rivers almost frose up. Received from our Nets 3 Sturgeon, 30 Tickameg and 3 Perch; William Taylor sick, Malchom Rofs on Duty; in the Evening saw a fire on the Point about 1 1/2 mile off."

Oct. 18
" Saturday A strong Gale from the NW and clear cold sharp Weather. The Lake frose about half a mile from the shore. The men employed as Yesterday: This day three forlorn Women and four Children came to the House in a starving Condition, they had only one Man to support them and he died about ten days ago. these are the people that made the Fire the last night."

Oct. 19
" Sunday Wind and Weather as before. performed divine Service."

Oct. 20
" Monday Little Wind variable and cloudy Weather with frost. The Lake frose about a mile from the shore. We have four Nets set and cannot get to them. Magnus Twatt overhauling the Trading Guns. William Walker a hunting return'd without any Luck. William Taylor sick. The rest of the people employed setting up the Winters fuel."

Oct. 21
" Tuesday Little Wind Easterly and dark cloudy Weather inclinable to snow. The people employed as before. William Taylor on duty."

Oct. 22
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday the people employed as before. Mr William Tomison went to the nighest Nets and returned with 8 fish and took up the other Nets. the ones that are set out in the Lake he could not get at."

Oct. 23
" Thursday Wind in the NE quarter and cloudy Weather in the Evening some snow fell. two Men Net making. Magnus cleaning the Trading Guns. the rest of the Men setting up the Winters Wood."

Oct. 24
" Friday Wind Notherly a strong gale with snow last night and to day till Evening. The people employed within doors opening the lashing of the bales to make Oakam to calk the outside seams of the House. also shifted the Powder? The Lake full of Icy? glafs."

Oct. 25
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday but more moderate Weather cloudy with Snow at times. five Men cutting of firewood. two Men clearing the snow out of the upper Warehouse (that drifted thro' the upper Works) and stopping the holes that are most Visible to keep the Snow out. Magnus Twatt overhauling the Trading Guns. two Men Net making. One Man Magnus Sclater laying by with the Veneral disorder. Mr William Tomison and William Walker a hunting and setting Rabbit snares. The Lake seemingly is fast."

Oct. 26
" Sunday Little wind Easterly and Cloudy Weather frost in the Evening and morning but thaw at Noon day."

Oct. 27
" Monday Little Wind Variable and fine pleasant Weather with thaw all the day. the people employed as follows. five Men Inland Mr William Tomison and two Men cut out the Sturgeon Nets in the Evening returned with fourteen Sturgeon Weighing 254 lb. William Walker a hunting and snaring Rabbits. two Men making Nets. Magnus Twatt who acts as Carpenter doing necefsary Jobbs within doors. One man Man Magnus Sclater ailing with the Veneral disorder the rest of the Men setting up the Winters fuel."

Oct. 28
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Mr William Tomison went round his Snares and return'd with 8 Rabbits and 4 Pheasants. William Walker and myself went round some snares but had no Succefs. the rest of the Men employed as Yesterday."

Oct. 29
" Wednesday Wind variable in the SE quarter and Cloudy Weather with thaw. Sent two Men to cut out one of our Nets that was set in the Fall but could not get it whole on account of the Water overflowing and frose it under. the rest of the Men employed as before. Received four Rabbits from Mr Tomison's snares."

Oct. 30
" Thursday Almost calm and fine pleasant Weather with a continual thaw. Sent two Men to the Sturgeon Nets, but returned without getting nigh them as the Lake is broke open nigh hand where they are set. two Men digging a trench to fix two upright Posts in the ground, for to be supporters for the prefs that packs the Furrs. two men making Sturgeon Nets, two Men a hunting along shore in the Evening returned with nine partridges and one Rabbit. Received four Martins from Mr Tomison's traps. the rest of the Men employed in cutting of Fire Wood. Magnus Sclater bad with the Veneral disorder."

Oct. 31
" Friday Calm and cloudy Weather. in the Evening a small shower of Rain with a beautiful Rainbow stretching from North towards East. The people employed setting up the Winters Wood; the poor starved Natives that came on the 18th Instant went away hauling with them one of their Canoes to crofs the River Saskachiwan it being not frose and no Ice to be seen in it. they intend to proceed for the Hill at U'Basquia where they are in hopes of finding some of their Relations; William Walker a hunting he informs me that the River below Us is quite open, he saw Swans, Ducks &c; The Lake being so weak we cannot get to the Nets occasioned by the late thawey Weather."

Nov. 1 1777
" Saturday Little wind Easter and fine pleasant Weather. two Men Net making Mr William Tomison with four Men cut down pieces (for uprights for the Furrs prefs) and haul'd them home; William Walker and one Man a hunting from whom I received one duck and three partridges. They saw plenty of Geese, Swans &c but could get nigh them. The rest of the Men employed at the House about necefsary duty; Magnus Sclator sick."

Nov. 2
" Sunday Wind variable in the SE quarter and Cloudy Weather with thaw. Read divine Service. in the Evening one Indian man and family came to the House and brought a little half dried Meat to trade; He informs me that the four Canoes of Canadian traders that are mentioned on the first Ult. are put up at the Beaver Lake to Winter there. He was employed in hunting for them but he left them Clandestenly some time ago."

Nov. 3
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday. The people employed as follows. two Men making of Nets. two Men mixing of Mudd for to repair the Chimneys. Magnus Twatt employed within doors. Magnus Sclater bad with the veneral disorder. the rest of the Men setting up the Winters fuel."

Nov. 4
" Tuesday A strong Gale in the NW quarter Weather cloudy and drifting with sleet and Snow last night. One Man repairing the Chimneys. the rest employed as Yesterday. Mr William Tomison and William Walker attending their traps and snares. Received three Martins and two Rabbits from the former."

Nov. 5
" Wednesday Wind as Yesterday the Weather more moderate clearer and freezing. Mr William Tomison and two Men attempted to go to the Nets but could not get at them it being not frosed where they are set. one Man a hunting returned with 1 Rabbit & 2 Partridges. the rest of the Men setting up the Winter's Wood."

Nov. 6
" Thursday Wind in the NW quarter Weather clear and freezing. The people employed calking the seams of the upper Works of the House. Mr William Tomison and William Walker attended their traps and snares. Received 4 Martins and 4 Rabbits from the former also 1 Martin and 1 Rabbit from the latter."

Nov. 7
" Friday A strong gale in the NW Weather clear with a ground drift and freezing hard. the People employed as Yesterday. Magnus Sclater still bad with his old Complaint."

Nov. 8
" Saturday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Sent Mr William Tomison and three Men to the Nets returned with 20 Sturgeon which were three days allowance for all hands: An Indian Man and two Women came to the House who informs me of his having a preserve of provisions for Us, which he intends to bring in as soon as he can haul; there being not a sufficient quantity of snow on the ground at present; The rest of the Men employed cutting of fire Wood."

Nov. 9
" Sunday Little Wind variable Weather clear and freezing. performed Divine Service."

Nov. 10
" Monday Wind as Yesterday Weather cloudy with snow at times. in the Evening Rain and Sleet; Sent William Walker and three men to the Nets returned with three fish. two Men making of Nets. The rest of the Men (except William Lieutit who is sick) cutting of firewood. Magnus Sclater on duty; The Man that came on Saturday I have trusted a little debt and he has set off. with him I have sent Charles Isham who is to return with the same man and Family bringing provisions as soon as they can get hunting with Sledges. Received two Martins from Mr William Tomison's traps."

Nov. 11
" Tuesday A strong Gale from the NW Weather cloudy and drifting. The Indian Man that came on the 2nd Instant is gone off a hunting for Us: with him I have sent one Man for to help him in case he should meet with Succefs. The people employed picking Oakham within doors. William Lieutit sick."

Nov. 12
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday the Weather clear and freezing hard. Mr William Tomison and thre Men went to the Nets and returned with three Sturgeon. One Man calking up the North doors: two Men Net making the rest of the Men employed within doors about necefsary Jobbs. William Lieutit something better."

Nov. 13
" Thursday Wind variable in the SE quarter and Cloudy Weather with light showers of snow at times. The people employed as Yesterday; The Indian man that went a hunting and Robert Davey returned but met with no Succefs. He found the track of three Moose which he traced for some time till finding the Man that went away on Monday had started them."

Nov. 14
" Friday Little Wind from the NW and dark cloudy Weather with drizzling snow at times. Sent William Walker and three men to the Nets to set another one which are four now that are down. they returned but with little Succefs. Two sawing Slabs off the uprights for the prefs. two Men Net making one Man calking the seams of the House. two Men employed within doors about necefsary Jobbs. William Lieutit on duty."

Nov. 15
" Saturday Wind as yesterday Weather Cloudy. Two Men Net making. One Man repairing old Sledges to be ready for use. Mr William Tomison making snow shoe frames. William Walker a hunting. the rest of the Men setting up the Winters fuel."

Nov. 16
" Sunday A stiff breeze from the NW Weather clear and cold. performed divine Service. the Indian man and Family that came on the 2nd Instant away a hunting for Us."

Nov. 17
" Monday Wind Easterly and Cloudy Weather. The people employed as follows; five Men Inland since the fall. One Man to the Northward with Indians. Two Men Net making. one Man repairing old Sleds. Mr William Tomison and three hands sent to the Nets returned with five Sturgeon and two Pike. William Walker setting up Martin traps. four Men cutting Fire wood; Received one Martin from Mr Tomison's traps."

Nov. 18
" Tuesday Wind in the NW quarter clear and cold. two Men Net making. Magnus Twatt who acts as Carpenter repairing the old Sleds. The rest of the Men setting up Firewood. Received four Martins from Mr Tomison's traps."

Nov. 19
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Sent three Men to the Nets returned with two Sturgeon. two Men making Nets. one Man chopping and Squaring uprights for the prefs. the rest of the Men setting up Firewood. William Walker returned from setting up his traps from whom I received two Martins."

Nov. 20
" Thursday Wind as Yesterday Weather Cloudy. two Men Net making. Magnus Twatt at work with the prefs. the rest of the people setting up Firewood."

Nov. 21
" Friday A strong Gale from the NE and cloudy Weather. William Walker and three Men sent to the Nets returned with three Sturgeon. two Men Net making. two Men sawing. three Men cutting of firewood. Mr Tomison attended his traps returned with three Martins."

Nov. 22
" Saturday Wind NW a strong gale Weather snowy and a great drift. two Men Net making. Mag. Twatt doing necefsary Jobbs within doors. The rest of the Men cutting firewood. Received three Martins from William Walker's traps."

Nov. 23
" Sunday Wind as Yesterday Weather clear above with a low drift."

Nov. 24
" Monday Little Wind in the SE quarter and fine pleasant Weather. The people employed as follows. 5 Men Inland. one Man to the Northward with Indians. William Walker and three Men I sent to the Nets, returned with Six Sturgeon. Magnus Twatt who acts as Carpenter at work with the Upright posts for the Prefs. Mr Tomison, Myself and the rest of the Men shifting the Provisions into the out Office, finding it dries too much in the upper Warehouse."

Nov. 25
" Tuesday Wind as yesterday Weather Cloudy and thawing much. two Men Net making. Magnus Twatt employed as Yesterday. three Men clearing the Warehouse and securing the goods from the Water that drops from above. the rest of the Men cutting Firewood.Received one Martin from Mr Tomison's traps."

Nov. 26
" Wednesday Wind in the SE quarter and clear Weather with a continual Thaw. Mr Tomison and three Men went to the Nets and return'd with seven Sturgeon. two Men a hunting from whom I received 19 Partridges. The rest of the Men employed as Yesterday."

Nov. 27
" Thursday Little Wind variable Weather clear and freezing. Two Men Mending the old Nets. Magnus Twatt employed as Yesterday. the rest of the men covering the roof of the North side of the House with old Leather to prevent the snow from drifting into the upper Warehouse."

Nov. 28
" Friday A fresh breeze Westerly Weather cloudy with thaw. William Walker and three Men sent to the Nets returned with two small Sturgeon. two Men mending the old Nets. Magnus Twatt as before, the rest of the Men cutting firewood. Received two Martins from Mr Tomison's traps. Our Indian hunter that went away on the 16th Instant came to the House who informs me of his killing three Moose and that most of the flesh is at or nigh his Tent. where I shall send the Englishmen to morrow for it."

Nov. 29
" Saturday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Magnus Twatt employed as before. Magnus Sclater Net mending. William Oman cutting up firewood. The rest of the people gone for the Moose flesh as mentioned yesterday."

Nov. 30
" Sunday Wind as yesterday. Weather clear and freezing a little. The people that went yesterday for the Moose flesh returned with 220 lb. They inform me that the River Sas.kash.i.wan is breaking up again and the place where they crofsed last night is intirely gone. they were obliged to crofs two miles below where they did Yesterday. Malchom Rofs not going the same path that the other people went, He fell into the River and with much difficulty he got out again upon some strong Ice."

Dec. 1 1777
" Monday Little Wind Westerly and clear mild Weather. Mr Tomison and the three Men that was home on Saturday went to the Nets and returned with 14 Sturgeon, 1 Trout, 4 Perch and 2 Tickameg. One Man hunting and setting Rabbit snares; The rest of the Men that was fetching the Moose flesh have this day to rest themselves. Received one Martin from Tomison's traps."

Dec. 2
" Tuesday Wind Northerly with light showers of snow at times. two Men Net making. Magnus Twatt employed about the packing prefs. two men about necefsary Jobbs within doors. One man twisting Oakham the rest of the men calking the seams of the south side of the House. Mr Tomison and William Walker attended their traps but had no Succefs."

Dec. 3
" Wednesday Wind in the NW quarter Weather clear and pleasant. The people employed as Yesterday. One Indian hunter also two Na.ka.wa.vouek? Indians with their Familys arrived at the House brought a little Moose flesh; At Noon one of the Canadian Trder's Men came to the House in a most pitiful Condition. He understanding a little of the Indian Language informed me of the purport of his Journey fourteen days ago he set off from their upper Settlement with an Intent to see his Brother who is one of Mr Rofs's Men at Basquia about two days Journey from this place. he had proceeded on his Journey two thirds when on crofsing the River the Ice being weak he fell in and lost the whole of his necefsaries fit for such a Journey Viz. Gun, Blanket, Shoes, Provision &c and had almost expended the Blanket coat that was on his back with making shoes for to walk in; On his Arrival he told me he had not, nor had any thing to eat for these four days past except three pair of old shoes made of thin Horse hide, which he found at one of their encampments in the Fall of the year going up. these he kept for a preserve In case he should not find this place. He had no shoes for to secure his feet from the Severity of the Weather only Blanket socks, nor had He any Cloathing suitable for such an Undertaking. if this Season had been as severe as I have known it to be He certainly must have perished, but the Weather being mild favoured him greatly. in short a mere Object of Pity indeed. I have taken him in and shall fit him out with a few triffling things fit to accomplish his Journey such as shoes, Leather, Provisions &c (as humanity dictates me so to do) and shall set him away again as soon as pofsible; He informs Me that all the Masters are at their old Settlements they were at last year and are all entered into one General concern as formerly, but that they have no Stock of provisions as yet."

Dec. 4
" Thursday A stiff breeze Westerly and sharp clear Weather. William Walker and four Men I sent to the Nets returned with 13 Sturgeon. two Men Net making; Magnus Twatt mending the Gates that are split with the Frost, the rest of the Men cutting of Firewood."

Dec. 5
" Friday Little Wind Variable and Cloudy warm Weather. two Men Net making. the Carpenter as yesterday. Mr Tomison and William Walker attending their traps from the latter I received two Rabbits. the rest of the Men employed in necefsry Jobbs about the House."

Dec. 6
" Saturday Little Wind Easterly and cloudy warm Weather. Mr Tomison and three Men sent to the Nets returned with five Sturgeon. two Men Net making. The rest of the Men employed as before. Received one Martin from Mr Tomison's traps."

Dec. 7
" Sunday Wind Easterly Weather Cloudy. performed divine Service. The Indians pitched away our Indian hunter for to get Provisions and the other towards their own Country."

Dec. 8
" Monday Wind as Yesterday Weather cloudy and mild. The Men employed at the following duties five Men Inland. one Man to the Northward with Indians. Magnus Twatt frameing out Work for Chairs. two Men making and mending Nets. one Man employed making Cloathing for some of the Men, the rest of the people cutting Firewood."

Dec. 9
" Tuesday Wind Westerly Weather clear and sharp. two Men mending of Nets. Sent William Walker and three Men to the Nets returned with 16 Sturgeon. two preparing bark ready to tan the Nets that are now made as I am of the opinion it strengthens the Twine and preserves them greatly. Our Indian hunter returnd but had no luck."

Dec. 10
" Wednesday Wind as Yesterday Weather clear till noon and then Cloudy with a strong Gale. Magnus Twatt employed as before. two Men Net making. One man making cloathing for some of the people, the rest of the people cutting firewood. Received one Martin from Mr Tomison's traps."

Dec. 11
" Thursday Wind Northerly a fresh breeze Weather Cloudy with Sleet and snow till Noon. in the Evening clearing up; Magnus Twatt as before. Two Men mending of Nets. one Man working at the Taylor businefs the rest of the Men cutting Firewood."

Dec. 12
" Friday Wind in the SE quarter a small breeze Weather Cloudy with light showers of Snow; two Men calking the seams of the SW side of the House. the rest of the Men as yesterday. The Na.ka.wa.vouek Indians that pitched away on the 7th Instant came to the House with 80 lb of Moose flesh."

Dec. 13
" Saturday Little Wind variable Weather cloudy inclinable to snow. Mr Tomison and three Men set another Net returned with 16 Sturgeon the rest of the people cutting of firewood. the Indians that came yesterday after Trading their Moose flesh returned to their Familys."

Dec. 14
" Sunday Wind Westerly a stiff breeze Weather clear and mild; performed divine Service; Our Indian Hunter pitched away with him I have sent one Man William Oman for to trap Martins and help to bring in provisions; The Canadian that came on the 3rd Inst. set off for Mr Rofs's House at Basquia about two days Journey from this place. I have supplied him with Necefsaries (Viz) Shoes, Leather, Toggy, Provisions &c sufficient for the Length of his destination."

Dec. 15
" Monday Wind as Yesterday Weather cloudy at times. the people employed at the following duties. five Men Inland. one Man to the Northward with Indians. One Man with our Indian hunter a trapping. two Men making and mending of Nets. Magnus Twatt who acts as Carpenter making of Chairs. two Men clearing the Snow out of the Yard; William Walker and Malchom Rofs making preparations for trapping whom I intend to send off to morrow; the rest of the Men cutting Firewood."

Dec. 16
" Tuesday A stiff breeze in the NW quarter Weather clear and sharp. sent four Men to the Nets returned with five Sturgeon, one Trout and four Titt.a.meg the Carpenter as Yesterday. the rest of the Men about necefsary Jobbs within doors. William Walker and Malchom Rofs set off for to trap Martins."

Dec. 17
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. The people employed as before except the Fishermen who are cutting of Firewood."

Dec. 18
" Thursday Wind Easterly a stiff breeze Weather Cloudy with Rhyme falling and some light snow last night. two Men lineing a Net to be ready for setting. the rest of the Men employed as yesterday. William Walker and Malchom Rofs returned not finding proper ground to trap in, no Martin's tracks to be seen. Rec'd one Martin from Malchom Rofs."

Dec. 19
" Friday A stiff breeze Westerly and Cloudy Weather with Sleet and Snow; sent four Men to the Nets returned with five Sturgeon, one Pike and a few small Fish. the rest of the Men employed as on Tuesday."

Dec. 20
" Saturday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Magnus Twatt making of Chairs. the rest of the people cutting of Firewood."

Dec. 21
" Sunday A stiff gale from the NW a low drift Weather Cloudy and sharp. late last night Wind increased with thick Snow and drift. performed divine Service. at night Our Indian hunter and William Oman came to the House with some moose flesh having killed two Moose. the Remainder of the flesh I shall send the Men for tomorrow. William Oman informs Me of his setting up thirty traps for Martins but has not met with any Succefs as yet; it being the dead time of the Year they do not run."

Dec. 22
" Monday Wind as Yesterday Weather clear and sharp. The people employed at the following duties. Five Men Inland. One Man to the Northward. William Walker and four Men sent to the Nets. returned with four Sturgeon. Magnus Twatt making of Chairs. four Men set off for the Moose flesh also the Indian Man and William Oman for to get Provision and trap Martins."

Dec. 23
" Tuesday Wind as yesterday and Cloudy Weather with light showers of snow at times. Magnus Twatt employed as Yesterday. four Men cutting of Wood. The rest of the Men returned with 290 lb of Moose flesh."

Dec. 24
" Wednesday Wind WSW and cold clear Weather. The people employed cutting of Firewood."

Dec. 25
" Thursday Wind Westerly a stiff breeze Weather cloudy and sharp with a thick Rhime. performed Divine Service suitable to the Occasion. in the Evening William Oman returned from looking round his traps. He says our Indian hunter is pitching away towards the Hill and U'Basquia and will be in again when he gets Snow shoes, Sledges &c, made. Received Received three Martins from William Oman."

Dec. 26
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Sent the people to the Nets returned with ten Sturgeon."

Dec. 27
" Saturday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Our Indian hunter and Family came to the House but has not met with any Succefs, there being no Moose nigh hand."

Dec. 28
" Sunday Wind more Northerly Weather as before."

Dec. 29
" Monday Wind WSW a small breeze Weather clear and pleasant. sent the people to the Nets returned with three Sturgeon, two Tickameg and three perch."

Dec. 30
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday All hands cutting Firewood."

Dec. 31
" Wednesday Wind variable in the SE quarter. Weather mild and cloudy. The people employed as Yesterday."

Jan. 1 1778
" Thursday Wind NW a stiff breeze Weather clear and sharp with drift and snow last night. Rec'd two Martins from Malchom Rofs's Traps at the back of this Island."

Jan. 2
" Friday Wind NW and clear mild Weather. Mr Tomison and Six hands went to the Nets returned with eight Sturgeon and some small fish. Magnus Twatt making of Chairs, the rest of the Men clearing the Snow from out of the Yard and before the Gates; Our Indian hunter and Family on the Plantation who are wholly maintained here; He is making Snow shoes, Sledges, &c ready to pitch away hunting."

Jan. 3
" Saturday Wind Variable in the NE quarter and Cloudy warm Weather; Magnus Twatt as Yesterday. The rest of the Men cutting Firewood. The Indian Man a hunting found the track of three Moose which he intends to trace to Morrow."

Jan. 4
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday with a Continual Snow all day. Read divine Service. the Indian Man went on the hunt again but met with no Succefs."

Jan. 5
" Monday Little Wind southerly Weather Cloudy and mild. the people employed at the following duties. five Men Inland, one Man to the Northward with Indians, Magnus Twatt making Chairs, two Men making and mending Nets. five Men sent to the Nets returned with seven Sturgeon; the rest of the people cutting Firewood. In the Evening two Na.kow.wa.vouck Indians came to the House and informs me that their Familys are nigh hand and that they are all a Starving having no Gun nor Ammunition in their Company only Bows and Arrows. this I know to be false as they were seen by Mr Tomison on his pafsage up from York Fort and told him they had been down to the Factory in the Spring for Necefsaries. I was told by their Countrymen that came here on the third Ult. that they had pitched away towards the Canadian Traders house at Basquia and there I conceit they have traded their Fall hunt for Liquor and when intoxicated have given their Impliments for hunting away to other Indians and now are pleading poverty. having nothing to trade any one Article with they may stand most in need off."

Jan. 6
" Tuesday Wind as Yesterday. Weather clear and mild. The people employed cutting of firewood. The Indians mentioned yesterday came to the House who I find to be an old Bungee Leader and Family belonging to York Fort. they have brought only eight made Beaver. the rest of their fall hunt they traded with the Canadian Traders and are now come here for debt. I denied trusting them any telling them to get Credit where they deposited their Furrs."

Jan. 7
" Wednesday Little Wind in the SE quarter with a continual snow. the people employed within doors about necefsary Jobbs."

Jan. 8
" Thursday Little Wind Easterly Weather cloudy the first of the day the latter part a strong Gale from the NE with a thick drift. sent Mr Tomison and three Men to the Nets returned with three Sturgeon. Magnus Twatt employed as before. the rest of the Men clearing the Snow from before the Works."

Jan. 9
" Friday Wind as Yesterday Weather clear with a low drift. the People employed cutting Firewood."

Jan. 10
" Saturday Wind Northerly a strong Gale Weather Cloudy with a thick drift. Two Men making and mending Nets. Magnus Twatt making Chairs for the Master's Room. Malchom Rofs attending his traps that are aback of this Island from him I received one Martin. the rest of the Men cutting Firewood."

Jan. 11
" Sunday Wind from the NW a strong gale and dark Cloudy drifting Weather the first part of the day the latter clear and more moderate. performed divine Service."

Jan. 12
" Monday Wind as Yesterday Weather clear above drift below. sent William Walker and all hands to the Nets except two Men Net making and Magnus Twatt doing Carpenter's duty."

Jan. 13
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. The people employed shoveling snow out of the yard & cutting Firewood. in the Evening the U'Basquia Leader, two Men and four Women came to the House bringing a few Beaver skins to trade. He says they have been fifteen days a coming from the place where He left his Family. there are fourteen tents in Company but He could not get more of his Young Men in with him they going to hunt Beaver."

Jan. 14
" Wednesday Wind Westerly Weather milder and clear. The people employed. Two Men making and mending Nets. Magnus Twatt making Barrs for the Stockade Gate the rest of the Men cutt'g Firewood."

Jan. 15
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. The people employed. two Men making and mending of Nets. Magnus Twatt as before five Men sent to the Nets returned with five Sturgeon and two Tickameg. the rest of the Men cutting Firewood. Traded the Furrs from the Basquia Leader &c 20 made Beaver. He informs me that the Indians he left has Furrs amongst them and are intending to carry them to the Canadian House at Basquia, it being the nighest, but to prevent them I have sent presents and given Him encouragement to induce them to trade at this place."

Jan. 16
" Friday Wind Westerly and Cloudy Weather. This day at Noon the U'Basquia Leader and followers went away promising to come in with Furrs again in the Spring. with him I sent off Mr Tomison, Malchom Rofs, and James Banks with Brandy Tobacco and other Trading Goods to intercept the Natives destined for the French house. the Leader thinks they will be ten days on their Journey; - The people employed. two Men making and mending Nets. Magnus Twatt as before the rest of the Men cutting Firewood."

Jan. 17
" Saturday Wind and Weather Yesterday. Sent five hands to the Nets returned with six Sturgeon. The rest of the Men as before."

Jan. 18
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh breeze Weather clear and sharp. The Na.kow.wa.vouck Indians and our Hunter pitched away the former for to get Furrs and the latter for Provisions."

Jan. 19
" Monday Wind as Yesterday Weather Cloudy with a thick Rhyme falling. the people employed as follows. five Men Inland. one Man to the Northward with Indians. Mr Tomison and two Men with the Basquia Leader on a trading Voyage. One Man making a Net another tanning of ditto that was finished on Saturday. Magnus Twatt making a writing desk for the Masters Room, the rest of the Men cutting Firewood."

Jan. 20
" Tuesday Little Wind Variable between NW and NE with fine serene Weather. two Men making a Net. the rest of the people as Yesterday. William Walker and five hands excepted, whom I sent to the Nets returned with three Sturgeon and four small fish."

Jan. 21
" Wednesday Little Wind westerly clear and mild. The people employed. two Men making a Net. Magnus Twatt as before. William Walker a hunting returned with two partridges the rest cutting of Firewood."

Jan. 22
" Thursday Wind and Weather as yesterday. sent five Men to the Nets returned with three Sturgeon. Magnus Twatt as yesterday the rest cutting of Firewood."

Jan. 23
" Friday A strong Gale Easterly Weather cloudy with a thick drift. the people employed as on Wednesday."

Jan. 24
" Saturday A stiff breeze Easterly Weather cloudy with a low drift. the people employed as on Thursday. Received six Strugeon from the Nets."

Jan. 25
" Sunday Wind Westerly a stiff breeze Weather Cloudy and mild."

Jan. 26
" Monday Little Wind variable Weather clear and mild. the people employed. two Men lineing a new Net. Magnus Twatt finished the Writing desk for the Masters Room. five Men sent to the Nets returned with five Sturgeon weighing from twenty to three pounds. In the Evening a Canadian Man with his Indian Woman came to the House and brought a Letter from Mr Rofs at U'Basquia in favour of the Bearer to be supplied with a little provision to afsist him to get to their upper Settlement."

" Copy of a Letter from Mr John Rofs Master of the Canadian House at Basquia
Dated River aux Carrot 24 January
Sir
If your generosity will induce You to supply the Bearer with a little Provisions to afsist him to get to Fort Laparaie You will greatly oblige His employers who is Mefs Bruce, Graves & Pond. - He is no deserter depend upon it. He arrived at my House three days ago, in order to proceed for the Grand Portage but having no Provisions to supply him with, could not advise him to continue such a precarious Voyage.
Mr Tomison went past my House the 18th Instant all well. I did not know then of this Oppertunity otherwise would asked his Commands;
I am tho unacquainted
Your most Obedient Servant
John Rofs
To the Commander at Cumberland Fort."

Jan. 27
" Tuesday Wind as Yesterday Weather Cloudy and mild. The people employed. Magnus Twatt setting the Crofs cut Saws. Two Men mending a Net. the rest of the Men cutting up Firewood. The Canadian Man that came yesterday remains here still he having hurt his Instep on the Road coming here; He says that Rofs and Men are Starving (no Indians are come in as yet) having nothing but Fish and they very scarce."

Jan. 28
" Wednesday Wind SW a stiff breeze Weather clear and mild. sent William Walker and four hands to the Nets returned with four small Sturgeon, one Pike and one Trout; two Men making a Net. the rest of the people employed within doors about necefsary duties."

Jan. 29
" Thursday Wind NW a strong Gale Weather Cloudy with a thick Rhyme falling. The people employed two Men making a Net. Magnus Twatt edging the Roof boards that was cut last Winter to make a new Roof. the rest of the Men Cutting up Firewood."

Jan. 30
" Friday Wind variable and cloudy Weather. the people employed as Yesterday. Robert Davey and William Lieutit excepted who are sick. the former complains of pains in his Bowels. the latter of a boil on his right side."

Jan. 31
" Saturday Wind WNW clear and sharp. the people employed one Man mending a Net. Robert Davey and William Lieutit still ailing. the rest of the men with William Walker I sent to the Nets returned with three small Sturgeon."

Feb. 1 1778
" Sunday Wind Easterly a small breeze and Cloudy Weather performed divine Service."

Feb. 2
" Monday A stiff breeze in the SW quarter Weather clear and sharp. The people employed at the following duties. five Men Inland. One Man to the Northward with Indians. Mr Tomison with two Men and Goods away with the Basquia Leader to intercept the Indians destined for the French house. the rest of the Men sent to the Nets returned with two Sturgeon and two Pike. Robert Davey & William Lieutit sick."

Feb. 3
" Tuesday Wind Westerly Weather clear and mild. The people employed above the House about one Mile falling timber pieces to be sawed into Boards for Wainscoting and Ceiling for the Masters Room also for to make seperate divisions for the Trading Goods in the Warehouse. Robert Davey and William Lieutit as Yesterday. The Candian Man &c set off for the upper Settlement. I have supplied him with a little Provisions as much as can prudently be shared with him. I sent the following Note to his Employers."

" Cumberland house 3rd February
Gentlemen
By the Bearer Mr Rofs at River aux Carrot sent me a few Lines requesting in Your Names a little provision to afsist the Bearer to get to Fort Laparaie. I have supplied him with as much as can conveniently be spared Viz. 20 lb dried meat 14 lb beat meat 6 lb Fatt which if used Frugally will be sufficient for him till he arrives at Your nighest Settlement where in all probability he will be supplied afresh. I am
Your Humble Serv.
Joseph Hansom
To Mefs Pond, Bruce, and Graves."

Feb. 4
" Wednesday Wind Variable in the SW quarter Weather clear and mild. the people employed squaring the timber pieces they fell Yesterday. Robert Davey and William Lieutit sick."

Feb. 5
" Thursday Wind NW a stiff breeze Weather Cloudy and mild. The people employed. two Men squaring timber pieces and prepareing a saw pit ready to begin to Work. sent four Men to the Nets returned with four Sturgeon. one Man cutting of Firewood, the sick as before."

Feb. 6
" Friday Wind Westerly Weather clear and Sharp. two Men cutting of firewood. two Men sawing of plank. two Men sideing of Timber pieces. William Walker a hunting and setting Rabbit snares. the sick rather better."

Feb. 7
" Saturday Wind as yesterday Weather clear and mild. Sent four hands to the Nets returned with four middling Sturgeon making one days allowance for all hands. one Man cutting Firewood. the two Sawyers pitched away to the Woods about one mile above the House to saw the timber pieces that were falled on Tuesday. Robert Davey and William Lieutit something better."

Feb. 8
" Sunday Wind Easterly a strong Gale the first of the day the latter part moderate cloudy Weather inclinable to snow."

Feb. 9
" Monday Wind Easterly a light breeze Weather clear and mild. The people employed. one Man cutting Firewood. the rest of the Men sent to the Nets returned with four Sturgeon & three Tickameg. William Lieutit on duty Robert Davey something better."

Feb. 10
" Tuesday Little Wind Variable fine and pleasant with thaw under the Lee. Sent Magnus Twatt and William Grey away with seven days provisions to trap Martins. Myself and the rest of the Men with the two Sawyers collected the timber to the Saw pit and put two pieces on. The Logs being so heavy cannot be put on the pit without the help of all hands. at Noon returned with seven 3/4 Inch boards. one of the Sawyers also came for Provisions and returned."

Feb. 11
" Wednesday Strong Gales from the NW Weather Cloudy the first of the day in the Evening Snow with drift. The people employed. two Men cutting of Firewood. one Man mending an old Net. William Walker preparing for to set off to morrow to trap Martins. Robert Davey on the Mending hand."

Feb. 12
" Thursday Wind in the NE quarter Weather cloudy and mild. sent four hands to the Nets returned with two Sturgeon and two pike. at Noon our Indian Hunter that pitched away on the 18th Ult. came to the House bringing Provisions and a few Beaver Skins to trade. in the Evening traded his Goods (Viz) Moose flesh 230 lb Beaver's ditto 12 lb and 8 made Beaver in Furrs."

Feb. 13
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. The people employed cutting of Firewood; the Natives that yesterday went away he intends to traps Martins &c and not come in again till the Spring. I have given him encouragement for his good past Behaviour he having supplied this place with 740 lb of fresh Moose flesh and is the only Indian that has continued by us this winter; Late in the Evening two Canadian men came to the House. they are bound to the Beaver Lake with a pacquet from their Settlement; They brought a letter directed for Mefs Cockings or Tomison neither of them being present, and thinking the Contents might concern some of the Company's Affairs I presumed to open it. A Copy of which Letter is underwritten for Your Honours perusal."

" Sturgeon River Fort 29th Janry 1778
Gentlemen
Tho' unacquainted with You I take the liberty of writing to You which I hope you will excuse when you consider the Contents. Last September a Man I had in my Service named Leduke (with four others whose Names are Yarta?, Marta?, and Savoy, the latter speaks a little English) Ran off and stole from Me a Canoe load of Goods. its my Opinion they'll be audacious enough to attempt to go to some of your forts next spring or Summer. Dear Gentlemen I beg you will take the trouble of adviseing the Gentlemen of your different Forts on the felonious Act committed by them Villains. I flatter myself by the Character you bear, if they steer their Course to any of Your places that they'll be apprehended and the effects seized which will be gratefully acknowledged by
Gentlemen
Your very Humb. Servant
Charles McCormick.
Last November a Frenchman named Francis killed an Indian here. He steered his Course by all Accounts we can hear towards You. it is humbly beged of you by all the Traders here; that if he happens to be at your fort or where he can be apprehended by you. We think ourselves as Englishmen on Friendship bound to advise You of the Villian as per Chance He may be guilty of as bad an Action at Your place. We are Gentlemen
Your very Hum. Servants
Booty Graves
Charles McCormick
William Bruce
Peter Pond
Peter Pangman
Nicholes MaJure?
Bart. Blundau
PS. The Gentlemen here have permitted Me to sign for them.Charles McCormick."

Feb. 14
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday Weather Cloudy with light showers of snow at times. Sent William Walker and all hands to the Nets. Six Sturgeon and one Pike. one of the Sawyers came for provisions and returned, they have finished the two pieces that was put on the pit on Tuesday last and now are at a stand for want of help to put more Logs on the Pit. I shall send all hands early on Monday morning to afsist them and to bring home part of the Boards that are sawed. Robert Davey still ailing."

Feb. 15
" Sunday A small breeze Westerly Weather clear and sharp. the two Canadian Men went away. William Walker set off with five days Provisions to trap Martins over the River Saskashiwan."

Feb. 16
" Monday Wind in the SW quarter a stiff gale the first of the day the latter part almost calm. Weather clear and sharp. The people employed at the following duties. Five Men Inland. One Man to the Northward with Indians. Mr Tomison and two Men with Goods in Company with the Basquia Leader on a trading Voyage amongst the Indians above the french House. Two Men at the Woods sawing plank. sent all hands that are home to afsist them in putting more pieces on the pit. at noon they returned with nine 3/4 Inch boards. Robert Davey still ailing."

Feb. 17
" Tuesday A stiff breeze Westerly Weather clear and sharp. Sent all hands to the Nets eight Sturgeon four Pike and four small Fish. at Noon one Man and three Women came to the House bringing 284 lb of fresh Moose flesh and 50 lb of half dried ditto which I have traded and have given them Encouragement to come in again with Meat as soon as pofsible. William Walker returned not finding any proper ground to trap in. Late in the Evening (Captain Juite) one of the Master Traders from the Beaver Lake came to the house begging the Favour to trade some Medicines. He being bad with the Veneral disorder. I told him I did not chuse to trade any, but if I had any fit for his disorder he was welcome of part. The kindnefs by them shewn to our people last Year on their pafsing and repafsing to the Buffalo Country is the reason of my shewing them so far Civility Which I hope Your Honours will not pronounce Culpable."

Feb. 18
" Wednesday Wind from the NE a gentle breeze Weather Cloudy and mild. The people employed cutting Firewood the Natives that came yesterday went away."

Feb. 19
" Thursday Wind Easterly a small breeze Weather clear and mild with Thaw under the Lee side of the house. sent all hands to the Nets seven Sturgeon. One of the Sawyers came for Provisions and returned."

Feb. 20
" Friday Little Wind variable round the Compafs Weather clear and pleasant. Sent William Walker with dogs and Sleds at noon return'd with thirteen 3/4 Inch boards. The Men cutting Firewood."

Feb. 21
" Saturday Wind NW a strong Gale with a thick drift and Cloudy Weather it being too bad for the people to attend the Nets sent them to the sawing tent to put timber pieces on the pit and to bring home boards. at noon returned with thirteen 3/4 boards. in the Evening the two trappers Magnus Twatt & William Grey returned with 18 Martins. they say they have set up 130 traps but the Martins seems to be scarce, very few tracks to be seen."

Feb. 22
" Sunday Wind Northerly a strong Gale Weather Cloudy and Cold. the two trappers making ready for to go off to morrow."

Feb. 23
" Monday Wind North a strong Gale Weather Cloudy with Snow and a great drift in the Evening clearing up. The people employed cutting Firewood. the Weather being so bad the trappers could not get off to day."

Feb. 24
" Tuesday Wind NW a smart breeze Weather clear and Cold. The two trappers set off for to attend their traps and to build more. Sent the rest of the Men to the Nets. four Sturgeon 1 Pike and 13 small fish. two of the Men (Magnus Sclater and Nicholas Wishart) froze their feet by the holes at the Nets being overflowed which wet them much. One of the Sawyers came for provisions and returned."

Feb. 25
" Wednesday Little Wind variable Weather clear and sharp. two Men cutting of Firewood. Sent William Walker to the sawying tent for Plank return'd with nine Boards. The two Mentioned Yesterday that froze their feet, are not able to do any duty at present."

Feb. 26
" Thursday Wind as Yesterday Weather cloudy with drizzling snow at times. Two Men cutting of Firewood. William Walker a hunting returned met with but little Succefs. Magnus Sclator and Nichloas Wishart laying by with froze feet."

Feb. 27
" Friday Wind NW a strong Gale Weather clear above with a low drift. Sent all hands to the Nets returned with two Sturgeon."

Feb. 28
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday very clear and sharp Weather. the people employed cutting Firewood. at Noon Mr William Tomison, Malchom Rofs and an Indian Lad (belonging to York Fort who afsisted in bringing up Goods last Fall) came back from the U'Basquia leader bringing Furrs (100 made Beaver) which is all he could collect amongst them (18 tents) James Banks one of his Men that accompanied him is staying with the Natives in care of some Goods left by Mr Tomison who I intend to send off again shortly with more trading Goods to wait for the Indians spring hunt, and to intercept them from going to the Canadian Traders. - In the Evening three Pigo.go.mew Indians with their Women came to the House bringing some Furrs to trade. they say they have been sixteen days in coming."

Mar. 1 1778
" Sunday Wind Northerly a light breeze Weather Cloudy and sharp. performed Divine Service. in the Evening traded the Goods from the Indians that yesterday (90 made Beaver) I gave them encouragement to come in again and to make three Canoes of 20 feet each for to freight down Furrs &c to York Fort next Summer."

Mar. 2
" Monday Wind as Yesterday Weather more clear and sharp. sent William Walker and two Men to the Nets two Sturgeon. One of the Sawyers came for provisions and to acquaint me that they will want help to morrow to put pieces on the pit. The Indians prepareing for going away to morrow. Magnus Sclator bad with a froze foot. the other Man on the Mending hand."

Mar. 3
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a light breeze Weather Cloudy with drizzling Snow at times. Sent the people to the Sawing tent to put more lumber pieces on the pit. at Noon returned with fourteen 3/4 Inch boards."

Mar. 4
" Wednesday Wind NW a stiff breeze Weather Cloudy and sharp sent William Walker and two Men to the Nets, four Sturgeon and one Pike. Mr William Tomison and Malchom Rofs with the home Indian that accompanied them making preparations for going off to morrow morning."

Mar. 5
" Thursday Almost calm Weather clear warm and pleasant. Three Men cutting Firewood. one of the Sawyers came for Provisions and Returned. Mr Tomison, Malchom Rofs and the home Indian set off with Goods to trade what Furrs may be killed by the U'Basquia Indians this Spring and keep them from going to the Canadian House with their Goods. Magnus Sclator laying by with a frose toe."

Mar. 6
" Friday Wind Easterly a small breeze Weather cloudy and Warm. Sent the people to the Sawying tent to put more pieces on the pit. at Noon returned with fourteen 3/4 Inch boards. Magnus Sclator as before."

Mar. 7
" Saturday Calm Weather clear and pleasant the first of the day the latter part Cloudy with a stiff breeze from the NW. Sent the Men to the Nets 1 Sturgeon, 3 Tickameg and one Cat Fish which is not common in this part."

Mar. 8
" Sunday A strong Gale from the NW with snowey and thick drifting Weather."

Mar. 9
" Monday Wind as Yesterday Weather clear above with a low drift and very cold. The people employed clearing the paths betwixt the Gates. Magnus Sclator as before."

Mar. 10
" Tuesday Wind Northerly Weather clear and rather milder. sent the people to the Nets. Seven Sturgeon and two Pike. Sawyers came home from the Woods having finished the pieces that was falled. in the Evening an Indian Man and his Wife with three small Children came to the House bringing Beavers flesh and Skins to trade."

Mar. 11
" Wednesday Wind Westerly Weather clear and mild. The people employed . two Men cutting up firewood. one Man employed within doors. The two Sawyers with dogs hauling home plank. at Noon the two trappers returned with 29 Martins and 1 Quichohatch."

Mar. 12
" Thursday Wind southerly Weather clear and cold. The people employed as Yesterday. the Indian Man &c that came in Tuesday went away. traded from him 140 lb Beavers flesh and 12 made Beaver in Furrs."

Mar. 13
" Friday Wind NW Weather clear and very sharp. sent the people to the Nets four Sturgeon. also the trappers to attend their traps. One Man sick and one Man lame with a froze toe."

Mar. 14
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday Weather clear above with a low drift. the people employed cutting of Firewood. the sick and Lame as Yesterday."

Mar. 15
" Sunday Wind NW a strong Gale with a low drift Weather Cloudy at times and very cold. at Noon two Men with their Women came to the House bringing a few Furrs. they say they have not seen nor heard of any other Indians during the Winter but have been tenting alone. they was at the Beaver Lake after the setting in of the Frost and got Credit from the Trader (St Germaine) a french man but do not intend to pay him on account of his unjust dealings with them in the Fall of the Year."

Mar. 16
" Monday Wind WSW a small breeze Weather clear and pleasant with Thaw under the Lee. the people employed as Follows. five Men Inland since the Fall. one Man to the Northward with Indians. Mr Tomison and two Men with Goods on a trading Journey amongst the Basquia Indians. two Men trapping Martins. one Man within doors about necefsary duty. one Man lame with a frose toe, the rest of the Men sent to the Nets two Sturgeon. Traded the Goods from the Natives that came Yesterday 50 made Beavr. they also went away, well pleased, as I gave them some encouragement for bringing their Goods to this place and to come in again in the Spring."

Mar. 17
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a strong Gale Weather clear above with a thick drift below. The people employed. One Man edging Roof boards. three men cutting of Firewood. one Man within doors about necefsary duty. Magnus Sclator lame with a frose toe."

Mar. 18
" Wednesday Wind as Yesterday Weather Cloudy with a very thick drift. Three Men cutting of Firewood. one man making hand barrows for to carry Snow out of the Yards."

Mar. 19
" Thursday Wind NW a stiff breeze Weather clear and sharp. the people employed as on Monday."

Mar. 20
" Friday Wind Southerly Weather Cloudy and Warm. The people employed. Three Men clearing the snow out of the yard. One Man edging Roof boards. One Man within doors about necefsary duty. Magnus Sclator lame."

Mar. 21
" Saturday Wind NE a stiff Gale Weather Cloudy with drizzling Snow at times the first of the day in the Evening clear and calm. sent the people to the Nets one Sturgeon and one Trout."

Mar. 22
" Sunday Wind Southerly a light breeze Weather clear and Warm with thaw. performed divine Service."

Mar. 23
" Monday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. The people employed. One Man edging Roof boards. Three Men clearing the Snow out of the Yards. One Man doing Necefsary duty within doors. Mag. Sclator sewing Canvafs (The coverings of the bales of Goods that came up last Summer) into a proper bignefs for to Cover the Canoes and exclude the Rain and dampnefs that may happen to the Furrs on the pafsage down to York Fort next Summer."

Mar. 24
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Sent three Men to the Nets three Sturgeon and two Pike. One Man edging Roof boards. Magnus Sclator as before."

Mar. 25
" Wednesday Wind Southerly Weather cloudy and Warm. the people employed as on Monday. Late in the Evening. three Young North River Inds. came with the pacquet which they have had in their care since the Fall.- Mr William Tomison being appointed by Your Honours Chief at this department. I shall (on his Arrival from among the Basquia Indians) deliver up to him Cumberland House and every thing there to belonging. taking a receipt for the same."

Mar. 26
" Thursday Wind as Yesterday Weather more clear with Thaw. Sent the people to the Nets. In the Evening three Indians arrived with Provisions."

Mar. 27
" Friday Wind Southerly Weather clear with Thaw. The people cutting of Firewood. Mag. Sclator lame with a frose toe."

Mar. 28
" Saturday Wind WSW Weather Cloudy and Warm with a great thaw. The people employed as Yesterday. At Noon Six Indian Men with their Women came with Provisions and Furrs to trade. the pacquet Men and Indians that came on Thursday went away. The two trappers also returned with 33 Martins and one Quichohatch."

Mar. 29
" Sunday Wind variable from North to West Weather clear and mild with Thaw at Noon. Trading the Natives that came Yesterday."

Mar. 30
" Monday Wind NW a light breeze Weather clear and sharp. Sent the people to the Nets. one Pike. also the trappers to attend their traps. Mag. Sclator laying by with a froze toe."

Mar. 31
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. the people cutting of Firewood. the Natives that came on Saturday went away."

Apr. 1 1778
" Wednesday Wind North Weather clear and cold. The people employed. one man edging Roof boards. two Men with Dogs hauling home Slabs from the Sawyers tent. one Man employed within doors about necefsary duty. Magnus Sclator lame."

Apr. 2
" Thursday Calm the first of the day and serene Weather. in the Evening a small breeze from the Northward. The people employed as on Monday. at Noon Charles Isham who I sent away with Indians (on the 10th November) to come in with Provisions came to the House by himself. the Natives that he tented all the Winter with he left at the French House in the Beaver Lake where they was trading all that they had; He observing their motions and knowing his Tentmate to be indebted to this place went to him and demanded his Furrs, but being denied he took them and set off the next morning for this place. The Furrs he brought will pay about half of the Indian's debt."

Apr. 3
" Friday Wind NW a stiff breeze clear and sharp with Thaw under the Lee. The people employed. one Man edging Roof boards. two Men clearing the Snow out of the Garden ground. one Man preparing bark for tanning Nets; One Man employed within doors. Magnus Sclator lame but something better."

Apr. 4
" Saturday Wind NW a light breeze Weather clear and Warm with thaw. Sent three men to the Nets four Pike. one Man edging Roof boards. One Man cutting of Firewood. Charles Isham Snow blind. Magnus Sclator lame but on the mending hand."

Apr. 5
" Sunday Wind variable the first of the day the latter a strong Gale at North Weather Cloudy and a little Thaw under the Lee. some Indians from the same Family that came on the 28 Ult., brought a few Furrs to trade and pitched downwards."

Apr. 6
" Monday Wind variable Weather Cloudy with Thaw. The people employed cutting of firewood. William Taylor laying by with Sore Eyes. Magnus Sclator on the Mending hand. An Indian Man and his two Women came to the House bringing a few Beaver Skins to trade."

Apr. 7
" Tuesday Wind SW a stiff breeze Weather clear and Warm Thawing much. The people employed as Yesterday. William Taylor on duty. the two trappers returned having put down their traps. the Season being over. Received from the 22 Martins and 1 Quichohatch."

Apr. 8
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. The people employed. two Men clearing snow out of the Garden ground. two Men cutting Firewood and clearing the Rubbish from before the Gates. Magnus Twatt and one Man prepairing for to work at the new Roof; one Man employed within doors about necefsary duty. Magnus Sclator on the Mending hand."

Apr. 9
" Thursday Wind WSW a stiff Gale Weather Cloudy and Warm with a Continual Thaw and much Water on the Lake. The people employed. two Men making trenches for to run the Water off from before the Works. Mr William Tomison one home and one Basquia Indian came Home. the two Englishmen that accompanied him He left at Noon, part of the Goods not being Expended and the late Thawey Weather occasioning so much Water and slush has hindered them from proceeding any further till they may get help. to morrow shall send Men to afsist them home. at the same time I shall embrace the Opportunity of obeying Your Honours Orders by delivering up Cumberland House with everything therto belonging to Mr William Tomison."

Apr. 10
" Friday Wind NW a stiff breeze till Evening and then almost Calm with Frost. The people employed. two Men planing boards for the new Roof. two Men making Nets. one Man employed within doors. Sent the rest of the men to afsist the People that accompanied Mr William Tomison to bring home the Goods. in the Evening they return'd and I find that Mr Tomison has Furrs to the amount of 96 made Beaver which is all that could be collected amongst the Basquia Indians they having had bad succefs in hunting has prevented them from getting Furrs; - The Rem'r of Trading Goods as also the Furrs now brought I have inserted in the Account that is to be delivered to Mr Tomison, presented it to Him and delivered up the charge of Cumberland House with all its Effects."

---

" By Mr Will. Tomison"

---

Apr. 11
" Saturday Wind Westerly with clear moderate Weather. This day I examined the Remains of Trading Goods Stores and provisions and found them agree with the Account received from Joseph Hansom. The Men employed. Magnus Twatt and one Man drefsing Roof boards. two Men repairing Nets. sent the rest to overhaul three Nets that is set brought nine small Sturgeon."

---

" Copy of a Letter sent from Mr Humphrey Martin
Dated York Fort 14 Sept. 1777
The Governor Deputy Governor and Committee of the Honourable Hudsons Bay Company have ordered me to acquaint You that you are appointed by them to succeed Mr Matthew Cocking in the Command Inland and that for Your encouragement they have granted to a Salary of 40 £ Per Annum from the 28th August 1777. you are to inform Joseph Hansom that He is appointed Your Servant at his present Wages and a Gratuity of 10 £ Pr Annum to promote his Teal? in the Company's Service ; You'll observe the Company treat you thus genorously, notwithstanding Mr Tomison's contract wants more than one year and Mr Hansoms more than two Years of expiring. consequently You will both exert Yourselves to the Utmost to promote the Companys Interest and shew Your Gratitude to such benevolent Masters.

You are to acquaint William Walker that his Mother being in great distrefs. the Gentlemen have advanced her 10 £ on his Account.

You will also Sir inform the Persons (Viz.) Robert Davey, William Grey, William Oman, & John Driver each 10 £ per Year so long as they shall Continue on Inland duties and have the approbation of their Superior Officers but that the Company are resolved not to advance their Inland Labouring Servants beyond that Sum. You will also acquaint all under Your Command that the Company expect their Servants shall go where their Commanding Officer shall please to send them or they will forfeit their Gratuity and advance of Wages. their Honours having agreed to pay each person 10 Shillings that shall build a good Canoe. You will please to inform all under Your direction therewith.

You are to keep an Account Book Journal and Mefs book and you are to be very sparing in presents to Indians and give them nothing but Brandy or a few Articles of Luxury but by no means to present them with Guns or any sort of iron Work of the Weighty kind, but Beads, Hawks bells, Awls, Needles, and such things are to be prudently presented to such Indians as bring or may bring good Furrs to Trade. Your Expences are to be arranged under three following heads (Viz.) Expence for Food, ditto for sending down Letters and Goods or receiving Goods from York Fort and Expence in presents made to Leaders should any other Expence unadvertantly occur it must be entered Singly. You are to cast up the amount of made Beaver of each seperate head and then enter them in the Ledger as usual.

Should You find it requisite to leave six Persons at the House. I would recommend the six following except Yourself should chuse to stay (Viz.) Mr Jospeh Hansom, William Flat, James Banks, Magnus Twatt, Malchom Rofs and Nicholas Wishart but should You chuse to stay it will be proper to send Mr Hansom down to take Charge of the Goods.

The Americans having declared themselves free States the Warr continues very hot. you will consequently be prudent to be on your gaurd, keep all Your Arms fit for defence and order a strict Watch to be kept.

You will please to pay to the Bearer Wap pun a chuck 4 or 6 Beaver. I am to pay him the rest in all 40 Beaver. With wishing You a good Winter as also all under Your Command I remain Sir
Your loving Friend
Humphrey Martin
To Mr William Tomison Chief Inland"

Apr. 12
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. performed divine Service as usual. The Indian that accompanied Me returned to his Tent. the Indian that was here before I came also returned."

Apr. 13
" Monday Wind SE a fresh Gale with clear. four Men employed setting up the Prefs in the Yard and other necefsary Jobbs. two Men repairing Nets. The rest removing the Furrs into the Victualing Shed my reason for so doing is to damp them for better package."

Apr. 14
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a fresh Gale clear Weather till noon afterwards Cloudy. two Men employed in the Carpentering way. one Man repairing Nets. three Men cutting Firewood. Sent the rest to the Nets returned with Six Sturgeon. they inform me of several holes being open near them; I gave as encouragement to William Grey, Magnus Twatt and others that have trapped any Martins 52 1/3 Beaver in Trading Goods as necefsarys for 151 Martins and four Wejacks."

Apr. 15
" Wednesday Wind variable clear moderate Weather. Magnus Twatt and one Man employed as Yesterday. two Men Repairing Nets. The rest about necefsary Jobbs. One Woman arrived from the Northward of the Beaver Lake, she brought no Furrs except a Beaver Coat which she traded for tobacco."

Apr. 16
" Thursday Wind SE a moderate breeze Weather clear. Magnus Twatt and one Man employed as before. on Man cleaning small Arms. The rest about Various duties. sent the low Country Indian Man (that I keep to afsist in going up the River) for Birch Rhind to repair Canoes but returned without Succefs the River being broke up for a long way. saw severall Geese and Swans to day. The Indian Woman returned, and in the Evening two Young Indians arrived from the same place, brought a few Beaver skins which they mostly traded for Tobacco Powder and shot."

Apr. 17
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. sent three Men to take up the Nets they returned with the Nets and twelve Sturgeon. They say the Ice is much broke in several places. three Men digging the Garden. The rest employed as Yesterday. The two Indians went away. One Goose to day."

Apr. 18
" Saturday Wind variable with clear Weather. two Men with the Indian a Hunting but returned without Succefs no Geese flying. Magnus Twatt and one Man employed in the Carpenter way the rest about various duties."

Apr. 19
" Sunday Wind SW a stiff breeze with cloudy Weather performed divine Service for the day. an Indian Man and his Wife arrived from the Northward about two days Journey from this place, brought a few Furrs and a little Moose flesh."

Apr. 20
" Monday Wind Variable from SW to North and Cloudy till 10 oClock afterwards clear mild Weather. two Men drefsing boards for the Roof. the rest collecting pallasadoes for the Garden. The Indian Man traded what Furrs & meat he brought."

Apr. 21
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a small breeze with Snow at times. one Man planing boards. Three Men collecting Pallasadoes for the Garden. The rest packed Seven bundles of Furrs and did other odd Jobbs within doors. in the Evening three strange Indians arrived from the Northward brought 74 made Beaver in Beaver and Cats they they inform me that they left part of their Furrs four days Journey from this place they being obliged to throw away their Sleds for want of Snow; the Indian that arrived on the 19th Inst. went away; No Indians being here has induced me to engage him to return as fast as pofsible to afsist in Repairing our Canoes, also sent with him the Indian lad I keep here to afsist in bringing his Lumber and to be more expeditious, as I do expect the River to brake up in a few days."

Apr. 22
" Wednesday Wind as Yesterday with clear Weather. One Man planeing boards. Three Men sheeving pallasadoes, the rest employed at the Prefs, packed 21 Bundles of Furrs. The Indian that arrived Yesterday went away, late in the Evening an Indian Man and his Wife arrived from the Beaver Lake, brought 40 made Beaver in Beaver and Catts."

Apr. 23
" Thursday Wind variable with warm weather part Cloudy and part clear. The Men employed as Yesterday packed sixteen bundles of Furrs. One Goose to day."

Apr. 24
" Friday Wind East a small breeze with clear warm Weather. One Man repairing Nets. The rest employed as Yesterday packed sixteen bundles of Furrs. the Indian Man and his Wife went away."

Apr. 25
" Saturday Wind variable from South to the NW with Warm Weather till Noon afterwards blowed a stiff breeze. Sent two Men a hunting. two Men planeing boards. one Man repairing Nets the rest clearing away the Rubbish from about the Works. in the Evening three families of Indians arrived from the Northward they brought no Provisions and but very few Furrs. one of them has been a Leader at Prince of Wales Fort, but has this Year traded most of his furrs with the Canadians that reside at the Beaver Lake. Mr Hansom and myself went to the River and found by all appearances she had broke up Yesterday the water still continues Rising so that it appears to be deluge. Received four ducks from the Hunters. no Geese nor Swans to be got the best places for shooting them being all Overflowed."

Apr. 26
" Saturday Wind Easterly a fresh gale with Cloudy Weather at times. the Indians traded some Brandy and got drunk. sent two Men to the River. in the Evening returned. they inform Me that the Ice is stopt and that the Water is fallen above three foot perpendicular."

Apr. 27
" Monday Wind ESE a fresh gale with cold raw cloudy Weather, rain'd a little this morning. Sent two Men a hunting. one Man planeing boards. one making a box to put the small Articles of trading Gioods in to go up the River Saskasiwan, the rest shaving Pallasadoes for the Garden. Mr Hansom and Myself packed the trading Goods for the intended Expedition. One Family of Indians went away that arrived on the 25th. Received seven ducks from our Hunters also two Geese from an Indian man. the Weather being uncertain prevents our having Canoes repaired as yet."

Apr. 28
" Tuesday Wind ESE a strong Gale with clear Weather. sent two Men a hunting. One Man planeing boards. Magnus Twatt repairing a Gun. the rest pointing and shaving Palisades. Received Sixteen ducks and four Geese from our Hunter and Indians."

Apr. 29
" Wednesday Wind variable light breezes with clear Weather. Magnus Twatt and one Man planeing boards the rest employed as Yesterday. a few Geese and ducks from the Hunters. Sent some of the Indians away for Birch rind to build a Canoe according to their promise in the Winter. some Indians employed repairing our Canoes in the Evening sent one Man to Saskashiwan River. He returned with an Account that the Water has fallen greatly and that there is but little Ice driving but a great deal still Remaining on the Banks."

Apr. 30
" Thursday Wind NE a brisk gale with clear Weather till the Evening afterwards small showers of Rain. The men employed as Yesterday. the Indians employed repairing our Canoes. received 11 Geese and 2 Swans from our Hunters."

May 1 1778
" Friday Wind Northerly a small breeze with Cloudy Rainey Weather. fitted out William Walker and four Men for their Journey up Saskashiwan River also two Indians to afsist them. the rest employed about odd Jobbs within doors. the Ice much broke up on the Lake the Indians that went away for Birch rind on the 29th returned but have not brought enough for one Canoe."

May 2
" Saturday Wind Easterly till 10 oClock afterwards blowed a strong Gale from the Westward attended with Snow and sled. the Men employed carrying Canoes and Trading goods to the River the Weather being bad obliged us to leave off before We could finish the Jobb. in the Evening two Indians arrived from the Northward and traded some Brandy and got drunk. Sent William Walker and one Man to take care of the Goods."

May 3
" Sunday Wind WSW a stiff gale with cold raw Weather. the Indians that arrived traded and went away."

May 4
" Monday Wind Westerly a fresh gale Weather mostly cloudy with Snow at times. a strong frost last night. sent off William Walker and four Men (Viz.) Robert Davey, Charles Isham, William Oman, William Taylor to go up Saskashiwan River to meet Indians above the Canadian Traders Settlement and to induce them to go down to York Fort to trade or to come here. I have sent with them an afsortment of Trading Goods to the amount of 862 Beaver in goods for the above purpose and to trade with any Indians who may be unwilling to come down. two Indians went with them whom I have employed to afsist in the Journey. I sent all the men to afsist in carrying the Goods to the River except Mr Hansom and Myself. they embarked about Noon. my reason for not sending more Goods is because there is not Men sufficient to protect them from the Insults of the Natives. I intend to send as soon as the season season will permit. Mr Hansom and four Men with goods to the Northward to meet the A.tho.pufs.cow Indians then there will be but three men besides myself at the House which induces me to send but five Men up the River. Sent the Indians a Goose hunting but returned without Succefs."

May 5
" Tuesday Wind NW a stiff breeze with cold raw Cloudy Weather. Sent two Men to hunt Geese. One Man planeing boards. the rest about necefsary Jobbs. Received five Geese from our Indian hunters, very few to be seen, the cold Weather having sent them to the Southward."

May 6
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. the Men employed as before. received four Swans and two Geese from Indians a strong Frost last night."

May 7
" Thursday Wind NNW a brisk gale and cloudy till Noon afterwards clear mild Weather. the men employed as Yesterday. the two Men I sent a hunting on the 5th Instant returned brought Seven Geese and two ducks, also received two Swans and four Geese from Indians, in the Evening two Canadians and three Indians pafsed by on their Journey from the Beaver Lake to Saskashiwan river to wait the Canoes going down in which they are to embark. as there is Indians with them I did not think it was necefsary to give them a supply of any kind further than as much dried meat as was sufficient for one meal."

May 8
" Friday Wind Variable from the South to the Northwest a fresh Gale with clear Weather a strong frost last night. Magnus Twatt planeing boards the rest employed about various duties. received two Geese and four ducks from Indians. in the Afternoon a Canadian arrived here on his Journey from the Beaver Lake down to the great carrying place, some disputes happening between him and his Master has induced him to leave his Master. he brought with him a few Furrs which he traded for powder, Shot, and Tobacco for his Supply on his Journey; the Ice much broke on the shore."

May 9
" Saturday Wind Variable with clear moderate Weather. sent two Men a hunting. One Man planeing boards, the rest employed pointing palisades and making Wooden Pegs for ditto. Received two Geese and four Ducks from hunters no Geese flying a strong frost last Night."

May 10
" Sunday Wind Easterly a stiff breeze with cold raw Cloudy Weather performed Divine Service."

May 11
" Monday Wind variable from East to the SW Weather with Sleet and Rain. Men employed about odd Jobbs within doors. at Noon two Indians arrived from the Northward one of which brought nothing the other no more then eight made Beaver which he traded for necefsaries and went off immediately."

May 12
" Tuesday Wind WNW a fresh Gale Weather cloudy with a contiuance of snow. Men employed as Yesterday there being no Working without doors."

May 13
" Wednesday Wind NNW a stiff breeze with cold raw cloudy Weather till Noon afterwards clear and more milder. Men employed about necefsary Jobbs without doors. in the Evening an Indian Man and his Wife arrived from the South'd brought with them a few Geese but no Furrs of any kind except one black bear Skin which he killed on the road. He says the Indians are all in a starving condition having traded what Provisions they had procured for Canoe building with the Canadians at U'Basqueah Hill so that now they are rendered uncapable of performing that duty. if this information be true their is but little prospect of their afsistance in going down to York Fort. for all their fair promises to me in the Winter; Received three Geese from Indian hunters; a strong frost last Night. the Ice in the Lake drove much on this Shore."

May 14
" Thursday Wind variable light breezes with clear Weather. sent two Men in a Canoe to Saskashiwan River to hunt Geese. Magnus Twatt planeing boards. the rest pointing Palisades and getting Ribbons for ditto. received four Geese from our Indian hunters."

May 15
" Friday Wind SW a brisk Gale with clear warm Weather. Magnus Twatt employed as Yesterday the rest about various dutys. the two Men sent a hunting Yesterday returned in the Evening brought twenty eight Geese also received twenty Geese from Indians. some Indians employed fitting up Canoes."

May 16
" Saturday Wind South light breezes Weather clear and very warm. Magnus Twatt employed as before. Sent two Men to the River to hunt Geese also two Indians. two Men fitting Palisades to the Ribbons, the rest sowed the Garden. some Indians still employed fitting up old Canoes."

May 17
" Sunday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. in the Afternoon two Indians arrived from the Westward in a Canoe they say they have been much troubled with Ice having been obliged to haul their Canoe most part of the Way. what they have brought is but a mear triffle. the Indians sent a hunting Yesterday returned without Succefs. the Ice on the Lake drove about a mile off shore."

May 18
" Monday Wind SW a fresh Gale till Noon afterwards varied to the NW almost calm rained a little last night. sent two Men to set fishing nets and to attend the same. Magnus Twatt making a Box to put small Articles of trading Goods in for the Northward Expedition. the rest employed about various duty; the two Men sent a hunting the 16th returned brought 28 Geese also received 10 Geese from Indians. the two Indians that arrived Yesterday traded what triffle they brought and went away. I sent by them for their tent mates some Tobacco and a few other Articles to induce them to come here with what little Furrs they may have by them."

May 19
" Tuesday Wind NW a small breeze with cloudy Weather. sent two Men to hunt Geese. one Man employed in the Carpenter way. two Men fitting the Stockades into the Ribbon ready for setting up. at Noon the Firshermen returned with two Sturgeon. they were obliged to leave their Canoe a little distance off the Ice being much drove upon the Shore by the Northwest wind."

May 20
" Wednesday Wind Northerly with a small breeze till the Evening afterwards varied to the Eastward almost Calm. Men employed as Yesterday. the Hunters returned without Succefs. no Geese to be got where they was a hunting. in the Evening Catabo binow the U'Basquiah Leader arrived here by land having left his Canoe a little way on this side of the Entrance into this Lake being stopped with Ice which by the Westerly winds is drove on this Shore. He brought about 30 made Beaver most of which being his debt. He informs me there is three Canoes laying at U'Basquiah who have prefsed him greatly to trade with them which he declined telling them he would not trade with them. also two Indians arrived from above brought a few Geese which I traded."

May 21
" Thursday Wind Northerly Weather part clear part cloudy. sent two Men to the Nets brought three Sturgeon the rest employed setting up Palisades the U'Basquiah Leader went away. I sent by him some Brandy and Tobacco to induce them to go down. He says none of them are building Canoes except himself and another Man. the Wind blowing fresh from the Eastward last night drove the Ice off shore."

May 22
" Friday Wind Easterly a strong Gale Weather cloudy. Men employed. Magnus Twatt Planeing boards. one man with Mr Hansom and myself packing up Goods for the Northward. the rest employed about various duties. at Noon two Indians arrived from below brought 20 Geese which they traded for Ammunition and Brandy. in the Evening eight Canoes arrived from above most of which had nothing they being but just come from the Canadians upper Settlement. the others have been here this Spring with Furrs and have now brought a few more which they have traded part for Brandy and got drunk."

May 23
" Saturday Wind and Weather variable. sent two Men to the Nets brought three Sturgeon. the rest employed as Yesterday. the two Indians that came with Geese Yesterday at Noon went away. The others traded a little Brandy and got drunk."

May 24
" Sunday Wind Variable from NW to East light breezes with clear warm Weather. the Indians trading a few skins for Liquor, I also traded from them a half wore Canoe built in the Canadian form of a middling size. in the Evening an Indian man with his Wife arrived here from the Canadians upper Settlement who informed me of William Walker and the other Men's safe arrival there, also of eighteen Canoes having been sent off at different times down to the great Carrying place with Furrs."

May 25
" Monday Wind Easterly a fresh Gale with cold raw cloudy Weather. Sent two Men to the Nets who returned without Succefs. Magnus Twatt planeing boards. the rest fitting Palisades to the Ribbons ready for setting up. in the Evening four Canoes arrived from the Northward but have brought little or nothing with them, having traded their Furrs with the Canadians at the Beaver Lake in the Winter."

May 26
" Tuesday Wind NW a stiff breeze Weather part cloudy part clear. one Man planeing boards the rest setting up Palisades. at Noon Peter Pond one of the Canadian traders arrived here with five large Canoes from above loaded with Goods. He is going to penetrate into the A.tho.pus.cow country as far as he can pofsibly go and there to stay this next Winter. He brought Isaac Batt with two Bundles of Furrs from the upper Settlement he not having a Canoe to come down in. I could not but in Civility ask him to come in the House for his kindnefs. I also returned him thanks for for the Supply of Provisions he gave to William Walker when he arrived at the upper Settlement which William Walker informs me was of great Service to him, there being no Indians there to trade Provisions from. Isaac Batt informs me that neither he nor Robert Longmoor could perswade the Indians to build Canoes but went all In in the Winter and traded all their Furrs."

May 27
" Wednesday Wind Northerly light breezes with clear Weather. sent off Mr Hansom and four men Viz. James Banks, Malchom Rofs, Nich. Wishart and William Lieutit to meet the A.tho.pus.cow Indians. I have sent with them an afsortment of goods to the amount of 1023 Beaver to trade with Indians who may be unwilling to come here. I have also sent two Indians to afsist and conduct them on the road as there is none of our people knows it. the other Men employed about necefsary Jobbs within doors."

May 28
" Thursday Wind WSW a fresh breeze with clear Weather sent two Men to the Nets return'd with one small Sturgeon. one Man planeing boards the other Men employed within doors. some of the Ind. went away and some Inverleads came."

May 29
" Friday Wind variable a fresh Gale a times. sent two Men to set two Nets and to look at the others that was set bfore. the other two Men employed within doors. in the Evening the fishermen returned without Succefs. the Indians having robbed the Nets in the night."

May 30
" Saturday Wind NW a strong Gale with Rain till Evening afterwards clear and moderate. the Men employed about necefsary Jobbs within doors. in the Evening sent two Men to attend the Nets and to stop the Indians from Robbing them in the night; last Evening four tents of Indians arrived here but has not brought one skin with them."

May 31
" Sunday Wind NNW with variable Weather I sent off six Canoes of Indians three of whch arrived from the North'd last Monday. the other I engaged here. I have sent with them 25 Bundles of Furrs for York Fort under the care of Magnus Sclator not having any more men to spare. fishermen returned brought four Sturgeon and a few small fish."

" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Humphrey Martin
Cumberland House 31st May
Good Sir
Es,con having come here in the Month of April with part of Your debt to be taken care of here he being afraid to keep the Furrs at his tent for fear he should be robbed by the Canadians at the Beaver lake; He offered his Service to afsist in carrying down Furrs to York Fort which I readily agreed to as he is a trusty Indian. - I have sent by these Indians twenty five Bundles of Furrs, contents as Pr inclosed Account. fourteen Men being at present abroad I can only spare one Man to send with them but expect they will carry the Bundles with care. - I have Sir given these Indians three Beaver in trading Goods as payment for to carry down each Bundle being of the Computed Weight and bulk of thirty Beaver and two for each of the small ones. - On the 4th Instant I sent off William Walker and four Men more afsisted by two Indians to meet Indians above the traders upper Settlement and endeavour to induce them to trade with him as there is no pofsibility of any Indians getting past that place.

I have received account from them since of them since of their being all well but detain'd on their pafsage up by the Ice being thrown on the shores in such quantities that it prevented them from tracking and the Current being to strong for paddling so that before they could arrive, the Indians had traded and gone three days before their Arrival, so that their Labour will be in vain. - Dear Sir I am sorry to inform You of the fall of trade at this place, but indeed it is no wonder there went 39 Canoes up Sas kashiwan River last fall. four at the Beaver Lake and two at U'Bas.que.ah Hill which is cut off intirely from the Basqueah Indians. there has not been one of them here since the last Fall except the Leader Cat.a.bob.in.ow and there is but little prospect of them going down as they have not built Canoes this Spring. Our trade at present no more than 2200 and odd and but little prospect of any more.

On the 27th Instant I sent off Mr Hanfom and four Men afsisted by two Indians with trad'g goods to the Northward to meet the A.tho.pus.cow Indians and to trade with who may be unwilling to come here. I conclude wishing better Succefs to the Companys Affairs and health and happinefs to Yourself and all under Your Command
Remain Dear Sir
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
William Tomison
PS. Please to Remember me to the Gentlemen of Your Mefs. these Indians has nothing to demand of You further then by way of Friendship being paid here to the full."

June 1 1778
" Monday Wind NE a fresh Gale Wea. cloudy with Rain at times. Men employed about necefsary duty. last Evening two Indians arrived in a Canoe from above on their Journey down to the great carrying place they had with them one Bundle of Furrs which I found they did not intend to trade with me I therefore asked them the reason, they said they would trade with? me if I would give them a large Keg of Brandy for nothing and afterward to trade such and such Articles for two Beaver, which I told them I could not do as it was greatly above the Standard. they told me they could get at the great carrying place an eight Gallon Keg of Rum for five Beaver, a Blanket for two and a fathom of Cloth at the same rate and all other Articles in proportion. they traded 13 Skins with me for which I gave the full Standard and then they was not satisfyed."

June 2
" Tuesday Wind ENE a fresh Gale with Rain till Noon afterwards Snowed very hard. the Men employed within doors."

June 3
" Wednesday Wind and Weather variable. One Man planeing boards sent the other two to the Nets who returned with one Sturgeon. in the forenoon some Indians arrived from above, brought a few Furrs also four middling size Canoes to trade according to their promise in the Winter. they traded some Liquor and got drunk. William Walker and the rest of the Men arrived from up the River Saskashiwan but have had but little Succefs in trade."

June 4
" Thursday Wind variable with Cloudy rainey Weather. Men employed within doors, except two Sent to attend the Nets. I overhauld the trading Goods and Furrs received from William Walker I found he had traded 290 Beaver in trading Goods for which I received 424 made Beaver in Furrs. I also received from Robert Longmoor 150 made Beaver in furrs for 82 made Beaver in trading Goods sent Inland with him last Fall. William Walker informs that there was 10 Canoes came there after his arrival and the traders being Superior in Number to him they took most of their Furrs into their Houses and they would not allow the Indians to trade with whom they pleased by debaring? the Furrs in their Custody."

June 5
" Friday Wind Northerly light breezes with very warm Weather. one Man planeing boards, the rest employed at the prefs, packed twenty Bundles of Furrs. three tents of Indians went off the plantation to Fish and hunt Moose."

June 6
" Saturday Wind SW with warm Weather. The Men employed as Yesterday. twenty five Bundles of Furrs packed to day. three tents of the Indians went off the Plantation. they have promised to afsist in carrying down Furrs to York Fort as soon as they can procure a little Provision for their Journey. on the Evening the Fishermen returned brought three small Sturgeon. three Canoes arrived from acrofs the Lake brought about 30 made Beaver."

June 7
" Sunday Wind Variable with hot sultry Weather. I sent four Men for some Moose flesh that an Indian killed yesterday. they returned with 195 lb."

June 8
" Monday Wind NW a fresh Gale with clear Weather. Robert Longmoor and two Men getting Wood work for a Canoe. two Men planeing boards. the rest employed about various duties. one small Sturgeon from the Nets."

June 9
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a fresh Gale with clear Weather till Noon afterwards cloudy. two Men planeing boards. two Men repairing Nets. two Men with Robert Longmoor getting Wood work for a Canoe. Sent two Men to set Nets and to attend the same. in the Evening one Canoe arrived brought a little Moofe Flesh."

June 10
" Wednesday Wind and Weather much the Same as Yesterday. the people employed as before. In the Evening the Fishermen returned without Succefs no Fish to be caught. at eight o'Clock an Indian hunter arrived brought 6 Geese and a little Moose flesh which they traded for Liquor."

June 11
" Thursday Wind variable light breezes with very warm Weather. sent two Men to the Nets returned with no better Succefs than before. one Man planeing boards. Robert Longmoor and two Men employed about Canoe Work. the rest employed about necefsary Jobbs. I sent off Six Canoes of English and Indians by whom I have sent 26 Bundles of Furrs &c for York Fort under the care of William Flatt, Robert Davey and Charles Isham. these are going to the Sea Lake track. at Noon the Leader Catabobinow accompanied by 10 Canoes of U'Basquiah Indians arrived. only three of which are intended to go down. Brandy and Tobacco being the principle Articles that will induce them to down. I therefore gave them some Brandy and Tobacco by which some more of them consented to go down also an Indian arrived who I sent sometime ago for Birch Rind. He has brought near enough for one Canoe also brought a little Moose flesh which he traded for Liquor."

" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Humphrey Martin
Cumberland House 10 June 1778
Good Sir
The Men sent up Saskashiwan River having returned the 3rd Instant but no Indians here being willing to go down with Furrs has prevented me from sending till this time. the Number of Canoes now sent eleven English and Indians by whom I have sent 49 Bundles of Furrs contents as Pr inclosed account. Sir I have paid these Indians as I did those sent before three Beaver for each large Bundle and two for the small ones which is according to their agreement with me. Sir I have sent the Indent of Trading Goods Stores &c which please to enlarge or lefsen according as You may find Conveniency. I have also sent the Remains of Trading Goods so that if the Quantity of Goods now Indented for cannot be conveyed You will be the better Judge to send what Articles may be most wanted. I have sent presents to the U'Bas.que.ah Indians to induce them to come in to afsist in going down. but I believe it will be to little purpose as I am fully perswaded the Canadian traders makes them presents to prevent them from afsisting us; I conclude with wishing You and all Your Command health and happinefs and so remain
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
William Tomison
PS. The Englishmen sent. Charles Isham Robert Davey and William Flatt. the latter not being agreeable to stay up without being afsured of his Wages he sent for. I have therefore sent him down."

June 12
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. fitted five Men out for their Journey to York Fort. Magnus Twatt finished planeing the roof boards. Robert Longmoor employed about Canoe work. the rest about odd Jobbs. paid the Indians off for to carry down Furrs to York Fort."

June 13
" Saturday Wind NNE with a fresh Gale till the Evening afterwards moderate Cloudy Weather. Magnus Twatt Repairing the North Gate and putting a crofs barr on the inside. sent two Men to the Nets who returned with one small Sturgeon and brought the Nets home to dry and be repaired. sent off eleven Canoes for York Fort by whom I have sent 40 Bundles of furrs under the care of William Walker and four men more."

" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Humphrey Martin
Cumberland House 13 June 1778
Good Sir
By the arrival of some of the U'Basquea Indians on the 11th Instant affords me a third Oppertunity of sending down Furrs. the Number of Canoes now sent eleven English and Indians by whom I have sent 40 bundles of Furrs. Contents as Pr Account inclosed under the care of William Walker and four men more these are going down the same track as those sent the 11th Instant. I intend to appoint the following persons to be left at the House when I set off for York (Viz.) Mr Joseph Hansom in Charge, Magnus Twatt, James Spence, James Banks, William Grey and Nicholas Wishart; Malchom Rofs I intend to take down as he is Capable of bringing up a Canoe. - Magnus Twatt being the only Man here at present whose time is expired the next year. He has sent his resolve for fifteen pounds Pr Annum. Which I cannot say is more than he really deserves he being a very handy man and if continued here, there will be no Occasion for a House Carpenter as he is capable of doing any thing that may be required here. - William Grey and James Spence has agreed to stay one Year at 10 £ Pr Annum; but if the Company should make any addition to their other Labouring Servants, they expect the same encouragement to be made to them. I conclude with Wishing better Succefs to the Companys affairs and health and happinefs to attend You and all under Your Command and so Remain
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
William Tomison
PS. Please to remember me to the Gentlemen of Your Mefs. these Indians now sent have nothing to demand from You more than by way of Friendship."

June 14
" Sunday Wind variable with light breezes and sultry hot Weather. the U'Basqueah Indians that arrived the 11th Instant went away to hunt Moose, also some Inverleads that was here before."

June 15
" Monday Wind NNW a fresh gale with Cloudy Weather. Magnus Twatt employed in the Carpentering Way. Robert Longmoor making Wood work for a Canoe. the rest employed about various duties."

June 16
" Tuesday Wind variable from the NW to the SE light breezes and very warm Weather. two men sawing stuff for the false roof. one Man repairing Nets. Robert Longmoor employed as Yesterday."

June 17
" Wednesday Wind variable Weather clear and sultry. the Men employed as Yesterday. sent an Indian man and his Wife for Birch rind as the quantity before brought is not enough for a Canoe."

June 18
" Thursday Wind ESE a stiff breeze part clear part cloudy. the Men employed as before. in the Evening an Indian arrived brought 76 lb of Sturgeon."

June 19
" Friday Wind Easterly and Cloudy Weather with a Continual rain. the Men employed within doors. the Indian man and his Wife sent away 17th returned returned brought three fathom of birch rind which with nine fathom before brought will be sufficient for one Canoe."

June 20
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday with Cloudy rainey Weather till 10 o'Clock afterwards thunder with flying showers at times. sent two Men to set three Nets the other Man afsisting Robert Longmoor to finish the Wood Work for a Canoe."

June 21
" Sunday Wind and Weather variable a very heavy rain last night which continued till 6 o'Clock this morning. three Canadian Canoes from the Beaver Lake on their Journey down to the great carrying put ashore here. their reason for coming here is there being distrefsed for want of Provisions. I told them I was not at Liberty to give them any supply as I did not know whether it might be consistant with Your Honors orders, but having known the great necefsity of the want of Food at sometimes myself, Humanity would not allow me to let them go without a small supply. I therefore gave them 40 lb beat meat and 12 lb of Fat for which they was very thankfull. They also informed me that Mr Hansom has traded more Furrs then he can conveniently carry in the two Canoes he had away with him. I have therefore sent off Magnus Twatt, James Spence and William Grey with an Indian to afsist them. I also sent 30 lb beat meat 20 lb of dried Moose flesh and 12 lb Fat has the Canadians also informed me of their being in want of Provisions."

June 22
" Monday Wind WNW Strong Gale Weather Cloudy with Rain at times. Robert Longmoor repairing a Canoe."

June 23
" Tuesday Wind Northerly Weather clear with a fresh breeze at times. at seven o'Clock Mr Joseph Hansom arrived from the Northward accompanyed by six Canoes of Athopuscow Indians also some others he was obliged to employ to afsist him in bring the Furrs he had traded he not being able to bring them without their afsistance. Mr Hansom has brought by this Expedition 2010 made Beaver in return for 923 Beaver in goods traded and otherwise Expended; The Men employed drying the wet Furrs. the Furrs now brought consists wholly of Coat and parchment Beaver; treated the Indians with some Liquor and paid them that afsisted in bringing the Furrs also traded a few skins with the others for Liquor."

June 24
" Wednesday Wind SE a stiff Gale with clear Weather. Robert Longmoor and one Man Canoe building the rest employed at the Prefs also traded with the Indians that arrived Yesterday and presented them with some small presents as far as Nature of Affairs would allow for their better encouragement to come again."

June 25
" Thursday Wind Variable Weather part clear part Cloudy with Rain at times. Robert Longmoor and one Man employed as Yesterday. Sent James Spence and an Indian with presents of Tobacco to Indians and to induce them to come here to afsist us in carrying down Furrs. the rest employed at the Prefs packed 20 bundles of Furrs. at Noon the Athopuscow Indians went away."

June 26
" Friday Wind Northerly a strong Gale with Rain in the forenoon. the Men employed as Yesterday packed 16 Bundles of Furrs."

June 27
" Saturday Wind and Weather variable. the Men employed as before. packed 16 Bundles of Furrs. in the Evening sent off three Canoes of Indians down to the fishing place below to fish and hunt till I come to them. I sent with them 14 Bundles of Furrs. James Spence and the Indian returned without Succefs having found no Indians except two Women who inform'd them that the others had set off after the Canadians that are gone up the Beaver River."

June 28
" Sunday Wind ENE a strong Gale Weather Cloudy with Rain at times."

June 29
" Monday Wind NE a strong Gale with Cloudy rainey Weather rained very hard last night. no Working without doors. the men employed baleing the Water out of the Scellor and doing other triffling Jobbs within doors."

June 30
" Tuesday Wind Northerly and Squally Weather with rain at times. Robert Longmoor and one Man employed in the Canoe way; sent two Men to the Nets who returned without Succefs. the late Wind having drove one Net ashore which they brought home to be repaired. the rest employed in Garden. an Indian arrived in the night brought a little Moose flesh which he traded for Tobacco."

July 1 1778
" Wednesday Wind variable from NW to NE a moderate breeze part Cloudy part clear. Robert Longmoor finish'd the Canoe. sent two Men to the Nets who returned with one small Sturgeon. the rest employed about various duties. Paid the Indians that are to afsist us in carrying down Furrs and examined the Remains of Trading Goods Stores and Provisions. I intend to proceed to morrow if Wind and Weather will permit."



" Received of Mr William Tomison the Charge of Cumberland House with the Stores and Trading Goods &c as Per Account sent home. Witnefs my hand this 2nd day of July 1778.
Joseph Hansom."


B.49/a/6

Home