" YF
1798
Ja. Peter Whitford
Gordon House"
[cover]

" Gordon House Journal 1797-98
by J.P. Whitford"

July 1 1797
" Saturday wind E light breeze fine clear weather
Employed four Men at the pit saw, two at the Building, the rest getting logs home. - About Nine oClock AM Gov. Colen & self with four Men & two Indians went over the Rock in a small Boat to go up the River we had proceeded as far the first handing place when the water was so high we did not attempt to go any farther."

July 2
" Sunday wind S light airs fine warm weather
At Noon three Canoes of Bungee Indians arrived from Jack River, and delivered 9 Bundles of Furs belonging to Mr Hallet. they informed me of one large Canoe was coming from Jack River but would not arrive so soon, as the Lakes are full of loose ice."

July 3
" Monday wind S fresh breeze very hot weather
Early this Morning Gov. Colen embarked for York after having waited eleven Days, beyond the usal time of the Inland Servants arrivall leaving Mr Ward to afsist me & Eighteen Men to await the arrival of the Canoes."

" A Copy of a Letter left by Mr Joseph Colen Chief, dated Gordon House, July 2nd 1797
Mr Whitford
Sir,
I waited many Days longer than usual at Gordon House for the Canoes arrival from Inland - and by accounts received from Indians to Day. - there is no hope of seeing them for some time. The unfortunate lofs of the Craft and other urgent businefs requires my attendance there.

I have left with you such necefsary papers of Instructions for the Guidiance of Mr Sutherland & Officers, and I wish you lend them every assistance in your Power in fitting out Canoes &c to return Inland. -- The Public Letter I wrote you pr March last will be necefsary to Produce to them - together with the letter to the Officers in Command of the Canoes.

You are to take an exact account of the goods & stores you deliver, all private parcels from Inland you are to take in your possession - and they are to be consigned to York with the Cargo for the Company, and none taken by the Boats without your knowledge.

You are to deliver Mr Sutherland the Gen'l Invoice of Goods this Season, together with those you have in store let him have the choice of what he pleases to take, and if he or any Officer requires others kind specify them and they shall be sent by the first conveyance.

If there are articles that do not suit the Men take a list of what they require and it shall if possible be sent them.
Be particular and exact in what you deliver. Mr Ward is left to Afsist you who is to return to the factory with the Boats after the Canoes are fitted for Inland.
Yours &c
Joseph Colen
PS. Take care that Jack River is well supplied with Goods And acquaint all Officers the Box & No. their Tea &c grocery is in."

July 4
" Tuesday wind S strong Gale very hot weather
Two men employed at the Building, the rest getting logs home for sawing. Paid the Indians for the furs they brought & gave them 1 Cloth Bundle No. 38, two Bags of Flour 30 lb each & 1 of Oatm'l to be delivered to Mr Hallet at Jack River. dispatched them of immediately."

July 5
" Wednesday wind S strong breeze very hot weather
Men employed as before. About Noon Hugh Sabeston arrived here with fourteen Bundles of Furs from Jack River. he informs me it is difficulty to get through the Lakes for ice. Wm Manson also arrived here from York with one large Batteaux loaded with Goods."

July 6
" Thursday wind S fresh breeze very hot weather
Men variously employed at the Building."

July 7
" Friday Calm cloudy sultry weather
Men employed taking down the Chimneys. the rest at the building, the Boat men stowing away the Goods."

July 8
" Saturday wind NE with rain at times.
Four men employed sewing Guns in canvas Cases. the rest afsisting erecting the frame of the new House."

July 9
" Sunday wind WNW part clear & part cloudy with rain."

July 10
" Monday wind SW fine clear weather
Men variously employed at the Building Myself fitting out a Canoe for Jack River."

July 11
" Tuesday wind SW fine clear hot weather
Early this Morning dispatched Hugh Sabeston & three Men in one large Canoe loaded with Goods for Jack River. others employed as before."

July 12
" Wednesday wind S fine clear hot weather
At 7 oClock AM Mefs Sutherland, Longmoor, Isham, Fidler & Oman arrived here after 30 days Journey from Cumberland House, with a good Trade, 23 Canoes & two Batteaux, the latter are left at the Head of Trout River, with 104 Bundles of Furs. Hugh Sabeston returned, unable to proceed by himself."

July 13
" Thursday wind S with cloudy & rain at times
Early this Morning dispatched two Boats for the factory with upwards of 200 Bundles of Furs."

July 14
" Friday wind S light airs sultry weather
Employed fitting the Men out to return Inland."

July 15
" Saturday wind S light airs hot sultry weather
Employed fitting out the Men and laying out Cargoes for seventeen Canues to return tomorrow. At Noon Mefs Longmoor & Isham set of for York three Canoes in Company."

July 16
" Sunday Calm fine clear hot weather
Early this Morning Mr Oman with seventeen Canoes in company loaded with Goods embarked for there departments. two for Jack River, five for the Upper settlements & ten to Trout River which are to return with the furs that was left.
Mr Geo. Sutherland with three Canoes & one small Boat loaded with furs embarked for York factory."

July 17
" Monday calm fine clear hot weather
Employed two Men at the pit saw & two building chimneys."

July 18
" Tuesday wind E light airs hot sultry weather
Men employed as yesterday."

July 19
" Wednesday calm Cloudy hot weather
Men employed as before."

July 20
" Thursday wind SW strong Gale sultry weather
Men employed as before."

July 21
" Friday wind SW strong Gale hot weather.
Men employed as before."

July 22
" Saturday wind SW strong breeze very hot weather
Two Men employed at the pit saw. two Men building chimneys. not a fish to be got in the River."

July 23
" Sunday wind SSW strong breeze very hot weather."

July 24
" Monday wind NW fresh breeze with rain at times
Two men employed at the pitsaw two Men building an Oven."

July 25
" Tuesday wind N fresh breeze with with showers of rain at times.
Men employed as yesterday."

July 26
" Wednesday wind N fine clear weather
Men employed as before."

July 27
" Thursday wind SW fine clear weather
About 8 oClock AM Mr Oman with eight Canoes loaded with Furs arrived here from the Head of Trout River. at noon one canoe of Indians arrived here with provisions to trade."

July 28
" Friday wind S strong breeze hot sultry weather
Myself employed trading with the above Indian. Traded 130 lb of Dried Meat. Mr Oman and Company waiting the arrival of the Boats from York factory. An Indian & his family arrived here for York."

July 29
" Saturday wind S fine hot weather
Two Men employed at the Pit saw & two building chimneys. sent the Indian away to their Friends."

July 30
" Sunday wind NE with rain at times.
In the Evening Mefs Sutherland, Isham & Fidler arrived here from York factory."

July 31
" Monday wind NE fine clear weather a little frost in the Morning.
Mr Sutherland detained here for the Arrival of the Boats. he also employed engaging Men to return inland, only two Men entered in to Contract."

Aug. 1 1797
" Tuesday wind S fine clear hot weather
Early this morning Mr Oman with seven large Canoes in Company for York factory. about nine oClock AM Mr Rofs with four Canoes, arrived here from the Athappescow, stoped here to Breakfast, & immediately after, set of for York factory."

Aug. 2
" Wednesday wind S fine clear hot weather
Early this Morning Tho. Clouston arrived here with one Boat loaded with Goods and Provisions. Two Tradesmen to proceed with the building. Mr Sutherland fitting out the Canoes."

Aug. 3
" Thursday wind SW with rain at times.
This morning Mr Geo. Sutherland & Mr Isham set of for Inland leaving Mr Fidler behimd on account for the want Canoes. Myself employed taking the Remains of Goods left. Men employed at the building."

Aug. 4
" Friday wind N with cloudy weather & rain at times.
Mr Fidler embarked on board the Boat for York factory. detained two Men to afsist in Sawing. the rest as before."

Aug. 5
" Saturday wind SW strong breeze fine weather
Four men employed at the pit saw the rest at the building."

Aug. 6
" Sunday wind NE strong breeze with heavy rain all day insomuch that it washed down part of our Chimneys."

Aug. 7
" Monday wind N fresh breeze clear at times.
Four Men employed at the Pit Saw. Two Men covering the Roof, two Repairing the Chimneys."

Aug. 8
" Tuesday wind SW strong breeze fine weather
Men employed as yesterday."

Aug. 9
" Wednesday calm with rain at Intervals
Men employed the same as before."

Aug. 10
" Thursday wind SW fine clear hot weather
This Morning two large Canoes with furs arrived from Jack River & immediately after they embarked for York factory."

Aug. 11
" Friday wind WSW fine clear weather
Men employed as before."

Aug. 12
" Saturday wind S light airs hot weather
Men employed working the building."

Aug. 13
"Sunday wind ENE strong breeze with heavy rain and thunder the whole day."

Aug. 14
" Monday wind NE light breeze hot weather
Four men employed at the pitsaw, two Men putting up weather boarding, the rest plaistering with clay."

Aug. 15
" Tuesday Calm very hot weather
Men employed as yesterday. In the Evening Mefs Rofs, Longmoor & Fidler with six canoes for Inland arrived here."

" A Copy of a Letter from York Factory dated August 9 1797
Sir
Your Letters of the 31st of last Month and the 3rd Inst. are received. Having no powder or a proper Afsortment of goods in the wharehouse I am obliged to relinquish the Athapescow Expedition this Season. Indeed I have not sufficient provisions to fit out the Canoes which accompany Mr Rofs. you are to supply him with a keg of butter & a bag of Scotch Barley. the Men likewise who are in the canoe with him are to have a bag of the latter.

As soon as the ship arrives I shall dispatch Indians to Gordon House with all Letters & parcels that shall come out for you or the Men with you. I can by no means agree to your coming to the Factory at Shiptime. enough has been said on this Businefs in England already about so many Officers from Inland being here that at that busy season you will have sufficient Time to answer your Letters by the return of those Indians whom I shall send with the packet.

Be particularly careful in taking the account of Goods and specify the Number & Articles each Steersman takes away in his Canoe on his leaving Gordon House - If young Smith should accompany these canoes Inland you are to supply him with necefsary provisions for the passage.
I remain
Yours &c
Joseph Colen
PS. This Morning James Sinclair Bricklar & Wm Leigh Smith were unfortunately Drowned below the Old Factory. They were returning with other Men for setting the Double Headed Beacon & fell from of the Boat."

Aug. 16
" Wednesday wind SW clear very hot weather
Employed fitting out the Canoes & in the Evening they embarked for Inland leaving Canoe & Cargoe behind as the Steersman Wm Budge being disabled."

Aug. 17
" Thursday wind SW fine clear hot weather
Early this morning dispatched Wm Budge to York. Men at the House employed at the building."

" A Copy of a Letter sent to Joseph Colen Esq. Chief at York Factory dated Gordon House August 17th 1797
Dear Sir
Mefs Longmoor, Rofs, & Fidler, arrived here 15th Inst. and Embarked for their respective Settlements yesterday, leaving one Canoe, Men & Cargoe behind on account of Wm Budge steersman being lame, who will better explain his Case than my writing. - An Account of the Mens Cargoes Goods taken & left together with mens Debts accompanys this.
I am authorized by the Gentlemen who have proceeded Inland to inform you of the Athapescow Medicines Box. shameful in the highest degree, the Box was opened by Mr Rofs and insisted of my taking an exact account & send it to you which is inclosed for your Inspection, it only consisted of eight small articles, and they were put up in a small Trunk. the rest was only Phyals & Pill Boxes.
This has been a trying Summer I afsure you with me not an Indian (save one) has visited as yet, and what I shall do I cannot tell if the Natives do not come to my releif soon. The Men with me tell me they are all to go to York on the arrival of the Ship, or rather when my stock of provisions is out. - if there are an opportunity of Indians coming from York this way. You'll be please to let me know & send others in their room. Till then, I remain
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
James Peter Whitford."

Aug. 18
" Friday wind SW fine clear hot weather
Men employed at the building. At noon two Canoes of Bungees arrived here, they brought a few skins, but no Provisions scarcely having traded the most part of it to Mr Longmoor at Brafses Fall Hill River."

Aug. 19
" Saturday wind SW light breeze hot weather
Men employed as before. Myself Traded with the above Indians made them a few presents as encouragement to bring provisions & sent them away.
Traded 90 MB."

Aug. 20
" Sunday wind SW fine clear hot weather."

Aug. 21
" Monday wind SW fine hot weather
Two men employed putting up petitions & four Men at the pit saw, two Men building an Oven."

Aug. 22
" Tuesday wind SW fine clear hot weather
Men employed the same as yesterday."

Aug. 23
" Wednesday wind WSW fine clear hot weather
Men employed the same as before."

Aug. 24
" Thursday wind SSW fine clear hot eather
Four men at the Pitsaw, two putting up Cabbins & two Men plaistering."

Aug. 25
" Friday wind WSW fine clear hot weather
Men employed as yesterday. Served out four Days provisions to ten Men being the last I am able to give them, therefore gave them Orders to get an Old Canoe ready to carry them down to York factory on Monday next."

Aug. 26
" Saturday wind E fine clear hot weather
Men employed as before. This evening entered the New House everything being finished except the lining & upper flooring."

Aug. 27
" Sunday wind SE a frost in the Morning. the remaining part of the hot.
Men employed repairing an Old Inland Canoe."

Aug. 28
" Monday wind ESE fresh breeze clear hot weather
Early this Morning sent seven Men in a large Canoe down to York factory, my being unable to support them any longer."

" A Copy of a Letter sent to Joseph Colen Esq. Chief at York Factory dated. - Gordon House August 27th 1797
Dear Sir
On the 18th Inst. Two Canoes of Bungee Indians arrived here with a few skins having traded their provisions with Mr Longmoor at Brases fall Hill River for which I paid the expence.
I entered in my new House yesterday which is nearly complete except lining and the upper flooring which could have been finished, had not my stock of provisions being very to keep such a number of Men. - I am much surprized that no Indians as yet brought any provisions. however I do not Despair as yet. I still think there will be a few come in shortly. Magnus Garson & six Men sets of tomorrow for York. leaving James Ballanden here who wishes to stay till the Canoes comes up in the fall.

I have sent you a list of Trading Goods & stores to be sent up in the Fall, which I should be glad if you would comply with, but as to provisions I shall leave that entirely with your pleasure, for you must know I am destitute of every articles of that kind.
I have sent you down 90 MB which I traded with the above Indians, they promised they would send their young Men with provisions in a few days. In the Meantime
I remain
Dear Sir
your most Obedient & Humble
Servant
James Peter Whitford"

Aug. 29
" Tuesday winds variable with thunder & ligthening & rain.
Two Men variously employed."

Aug. 30
" Wednesday wind S light airs hot weather
Two Men employed fixing parchment in for windows."

Aug. 31
" Thursday wind WNW strong breeze with showers of rain
Men employed as yesterday."

Sept. 1 1797
" Friday wind NW strong breeze with showers of rain
Men employed getting firewood."

Sept. 2
" Saturday wind NW light airs cloudy weather
Two Men employed getting firewood."

Sept. 3
" Sunday wind WSW fine clear weather"

Sept. 4
" Monday wind WSW fine clear weather
Two men employed getting firewood."

Sept. 5
" Tuesday wind SW fine clear weather
Two men employed getting firewood."

Sept. 6
" Wednesday wind S light airs fine clear weather
At ten oClock AM Mr Tomison with six Canoes in company arrived here from York factory & remained here this day."

" A Copy of a Letter from York Factory August 29 1797
Sir
The Ship King George arrived the 24th Ist. On which day Capt. Richards and Mr Tomison landed, tho the parcels were not sent on shore before yesterday, I wish you to delived the letters &c as directed.

I expect Mr Tomison & party will be with you in a few Days. - you may depend on my sending the Batteaux up soon after the Ship leaves this place, with provisions. - when I shall appoint the men who are to Winter at Gordon House. till then John Budge, Mag. Hutchinson. Donald Laughton and James Ballenden will be fully sufficient, as I judge your stock of Provisions now? low?. If the House is not finished you may, in that case detain all or any of the Tradesmen untill it is compleated. - Except Edward Rozie who is desirious of going home this year. he may return with the Natives, as may Tho. Moor if he does not choose to except the Companys terms which is 18 £ pr Ann.
I beg you not detain the Natives longer than is necefsary to write Letters &c. with wishing Health and plenty
I remain
Yours &c
Joseph Colen."

Sept. 7
" Thursday hazy thick Cloudy weather
At five oClock AM Mr Tomison and party set of for the upper Settlements leaving behind Robt. Flett and took James Ballenden in his room. At noon ten Canoes arrived here with provisions."

Sept. 8
" Friday wind S fine clear warm weather
Men employed getting firewood. Indians remained here."

" A Copy of a Letter sent to Jos. Colen Esq. chief at York Factory
Gordon House Sept. 8 1797
Dear Sir
On the 6 Inst. Mr Tomison and party arrived here (when I had the Happinefs of hearing the safe arrival of the Companys Ships in the Country) And the next day they proceeded on their Journey Inland, only taking two Bundles of Goods and a little provisions from this House. the inclosed Note are the numbers, together with loofe articles. yesterday ten Canoes of Indians arrived here with provisions which came in a needful time as my Stock was near expended. I traded apart and you will receive the rest from the Bearers.
I should be glad if you could let me have the use of a Taylor for a few days as I am much in want of winter Cloathing. You'll be pleased to inform the Honble Company for an advance of Salary, equal to Persons in my situation or their permifsions to return to England pr next Ship. I conclude with wishing you Health & plenty,
I remain
Dear Sir
Yours sincerely
James Peter Whitford."

Sept. 9
" Saturday wind SW fine clear weather
This morning four Canoes of Indians set of for York factory. one Canoe of Bungees set of for their respective tents. five Canoes remained here trading. Traded 700 lb of provisions"

Sept. 10
" Sunday wind NE thick rainy weather.
Indians remained here for account of the bad weather."

Sept. 11
" Monday wind NE heavy rain all day.
The Indians remained this day."

Sept. 12
" Tuesday wind NE with rain at times.
Early this morning the Indians embarked for their winter quarters."

Sept. 13
" Wednesday wind NW strong breeze with rain at times.
one man getting firewood."

Sept. 14
" Thursday wind W fine breeze clear warm weather
This afternoon Mr MacKay arrived here from Albany with Hugh Sabeston who piloted him down from the Jack tent."

Sept. 15
" Friday winds variable part fine & part cloudy with rain
Employed at various Jobs. Mr McKay remains here this day."

Sept. 16
" Saturday wind NW raw cold weather clear wt times.
Early this Morning Mr McKay embarked for York factory. leaving Hugh Sabbeston here to proceed to Jack River by the first opportunity."

Sept. 17
" Sunday wind NW clear cold weather
Late in the evening two Canoes of Homegaurds arrived here for York factory with furs & provisions."

Sept. 18
" Monday wind N sharp frost clear weather
Two Canoes of Indians set of for york factory. Traded a new Canoe for Hugh Sabeston to proceed to Jack river."

Sept. 19
" Tuesday N sharp frosty clear weather
Early this morning Hugh Sabeston & John Budge embarked in a small Canoe with a few Goods for Jack River, leaving only Robt. Flett at the House with me."

Sept. 20
" Wednesday wind NNE clear frosty weather
One man employed getting firewood."

Sept. 21
" Thursday wind NW strong breeze clear frosty weather
One man employed getting firewood."

Sept. 22
" Friday wind N fine clear warm weather
At noon three canoes of Indians arrived here with provisions and a few skins to trade."

Sept. 23
" Saturday wind variable fine clear weather
The Indians paid their Summer Debts in the afternoon one of the Indians grew exceedingly riotous & troublesome. My endeavouring to pacify him, he grew the more outragous. and at last I got him out of the Stockades but had no sooner shut the Gates, than the others assisted in breaking down the Gates, and was determined to Kill an Englishman as they had done to a Canadian, in this dilemma I did not know what to do, having only one Man who had just come out. after they entered my room with their knives in their Hands I Told them if they not Instantly put away those knives, I certainly would fire at them, when they consented and I gave them a little more liquor and heard no more of them that night."

Sept. 24
" Sunday wind WNW fine clear weather
Early this Morning gave the above Indians debt and sent them away."

Sept. 25
" Monday wind SW fine clear hot weather
At 5 PM two Canoes of Indians arrived here from York factory."

Sept. 26
" Tuesday wind S strong Gale fine clear weather
One man employed getting firewood."

Sept. 27
" Wednesday wind NE with rain at times.
One Man employed getting firewood."

Sept. 28
" Thursday wind NW cold with a little snow at times.
Two canoes of Indians embarked for their winter quarters. gave them a little liquor as encouragement to bring prov. during winter."

Sept. 29
" Friday wind NW strong breeze frosty weather
One Man employed getting firewood."

Sept. 30
" Saturday wind NE with rain at times.
One Man employed cutting firewood."

Oct. 1 1797
" Sunday wind N stiff breeze cloudy weather
Early this Morning Mr Ward with two Batteaux loaded with goods and provisions arrived here after eleven days from York. Tho. Strickler, Adam Mowatt & a Boy John Mowatt to winter with me."

" A Copy of a Letter from Joseph Colen Esq. Chief at York Factory dated Sept. 20th 1797
Sir
Mr McKay arrived yesterday, the Ships King George & Queen Charlotte sailed for England the 15th Inst. the former with a Cargoe of upwards of 47,000 MB on Board the latter 6000. Mefs Jarvis, Stayner &Wright were pafsengers.
The Invoice of Goods sent pr Boats accompanies this: of the many articles you wrote for we have none in the wharehouses. No Trowsers, no Spoons, no large trunks, not an oval Eyed Hatchet, besides those weighty ones, which Indians refuse trading - very few Cotton Shirts, not one for each Man, and those Mr Tomison expected to be reserved for him and his people next summer. Cloth also a scarce article therefore you are required to use the greatest frugality in the Expenditure. York wharehouses contain barely sufficient for it Trade only.

Tho. Strickler & Adam Mowatt are to remain with you. Provisions are sent for your and their support. Reserve as much Dried meat as you can for the Men from Inland next Season.

Make an exact & Minute Overhaul of the Goods on Remains and send it by the Return of Boats.
My mefsmates join in Complm'ts to you with wishing you Health and a pleasant winter.
I remain
Yours &c"

Oct. 2
" Monday wind W fresh breeze clear weather
Myself & Mr Ward employed taking the Stock that remains Men Stowing the Goods away. stowed 53 Cloth bundles & 15 Roll of Brazile Tobacco. also all the loofe articles. Two Canoes of Homegaurds arrived here from York factory."

" A Copy of a Letter sent to Joseph Colen Esq. Chief York factory
Gordon House October 2nd 1797
Dear Sir
Mr Ward arrived here with the Boats yesterday and delivered the Cargoes very safe and am much Oblige to you for the supplies. you may depend on my being as carefull as possible in the Expenditure of what is now sent.
Since my last I have been visited by three Canoes of Indians. they brought me some provisions which I shall be Oblige to expend this fall among the people. - as it is a long time to keep till next spring.

Mr Ward & self made a Minute overhaul of the Bundles and loofe articles the account of, will be delivered to you by him which I hope will give you satisfaction, if there's any further you wish to know you'll be pleased to refer to him. I have nothing more to add than wishing Health & a plentyfull winter.
I remain
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient Humble
Servant
James Peter Whitford
PS. I forgot to inform you, I have detained the Boats covering for the preservation of the Companys Goods."

Oct. 3
" Tuesday wind NW light breeze with rain at times.
At noon Mr Ward embarked for York factory. employed stowing the provisions away. two Canoes of Homegaurds went away."

Oct. 4
" Wednesday wind N with rain at times
Men employed falling firewood."

Oct. 5
" Thursday wind N strong Gale with rain & sleet all day
Men employed cutting firewood."

Oct. 6
" Friday wind N with thick snow all day the fell a foot in dept.
Men employed clearing away the snow."

Oct. 7
" Saturday wind N sharp frosty weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Oct. 8
" Sunday calm sharp frosty weather"

Oct. 9
" Monday wind NW light airs with rain at times
Men employed getting firewood & plaistering the House At noon two Canoes of Indians arrived here with provisions and paid part of their Debt trusted them a fortnight ago."

Oct. 10
" Tuesday wind N light snow at times.
Men employed getting firewood. The above Indians went away."

Oct. 11
" Wednesday wind N light snow falling at times
Early this Morning three Indians arrived here & brought very little or nothing. gave them a small supply and sent them away. Men employed getting firewood."

Oct. 12
" Thursday wind WNW sharp frosty weather
Men employed falling firewood."

Oct. 13
" Friday wind N with snowy & cloudy weather
Men employed falling firewood."

Oct. 14
" Saturday wind NW Snow at times
Men employed cutting firewood."

Oct. 15
" Sunday wind SW fresh breeze thawing weather."

Oct. 16
" Monday wind NW light breeze a little snow at times.
Men employed cutting Wood to make soap with."

Oct. 17
" Tuesday wind SW very sharp freezing weather
Myself & Men employed making Pimecon to be in reserve for next Spring. Made 4 Bags of 70 lb each. - At noon An Old Indian named Tho. & his family pitched in According to promise to direct us to the fishing lake but not having a net fit for their use was Oblige to detain them till I could get one ready."

Oct. 18
" Wednesday wind NW sharp frosty weather
Sent the Boys a hunting but could kill nothing. myself was Oblige to make a net as I had nobody that would do it.
Men employed cutting firewood. the ice began to drive."

Oct. 19
" Thursday wind S cloudy warm weather. the River clear of ice.
Sent the Old Man and the Boys a hunting no succefs. myself and the employed as before."

Oct. 20
" Friday wind S cloudy with rain & sleet at times
Two men getting themselves ready to accompany the Old man a fishing."

Oct. 21
" Saturday wind SW warm weather with rain at times
Men employed cutting firewood. Myself finished the net."

Oct. 22
" Sunday wind SW strong breeze with snow."

Oct. 23
" Monday wind NW sharp freezing weather
Early this morning Tho. Stricklar, Robt. Flett with the Old Man, and family set off acrofs the River, for the fishing lake. One man employed cutting firewood."

Oct. 24
" Tuesday wind NW clear sharp weather. the River driving full of ice.
Myself, one man and one Boy endeavoured to haul the Boat on the Shore, but it too weighty for us. employed mending the Chimney in my room."

Oct. 25
" Wednesday wind NE thick snow all day
One man employed getting firewood."

Oct. 26
" Thursday wind ENE warm weather with snow
One Man employed getting firewood."

Oct. 27
" Friday wind ENE warm snowy weather
One Man getting firewood."

Oct. 28
" Saturday wind E with snow at times.
Employed clearing the snow away from before the doors."

Oct. 29
" Sunday wind S mild Cloudy weather
At noon Tho. Stricklar, Robt. Flett with two Indians Boys came from Old Thomas's tent. they brought only nine small Tickomeg fish, they informed me that the Lake was very shoal the greatest depth not exceeding two feet, therefore I considered it uselefs to send Men there again. Myself set a few Rabbet snares."

Oct. 30
" Monday wind S strong Gale fine clear weather
This Morning myself & two Indian Boys set of a hunting and Saw a number of Deer. one of the Boys kill a young Buck. Rec'd 80 lb of Deer meat."

Oct. 31
" Tuesday wind SW very sharp frost, ice driving in the river
Dispatched the Boys off acrofs the River to their tent in order to kill furs to pay their debt. Hauled the Boat up."

Nov. 1 1797
" Wednesday wind N very sharp cold weather
Men employed cutting firewood.. Rec'd 9 Rabbets."

Nov. 2
" Thursday wind N very sharp with much ice driving.
Men employed getting firewood. Rec'd 4 Rabbets."

Nov. 3
" Friday wind N sharp cold weather
Men employed fetching meat my having killed three Buck Deer. An amazing number of Deer has been seen to day but extreemly difficult to get nigh them as the snow being very hard. Rec'd 200 lb of Deer meat."

Nov. 4
" Saturday wind N very sharp clear weather
Men employed cutting firewood. Myself went a hunting killed 3 Rabbets & 6 Partridges."

Nov. 5
" Sunday wind N very cold with light snow
Myself went into the plains, no fresh tracks to be seen to day."

Nov. 6
" Monday wind wind N sharp clear weather ice driving thick in the River
Men employed gethering firewood."

Nov. 7
" Tuesday wind NW light airs clear sharp weather. ice driving in the River.
Men employed gathering firewood."

Nov. 8
" Wednesday wind N light airs rhymy weather
Men variously employed. Myself saw a number of Deer in the plains."

Nov. 9
" Thursday wind N very sharp clear weather the river freezing up at the Edges.
Men employed cutting firewood. Myself saw a few fresh tracks of Deer to day went after them and killed one doe deer."

Nov. 10
" Friday wind N light airs rhymy weather
Men employed fetching Meat that killed yesterday."

Nov. 11
" Saturday wind N sharp clear weather
Men employed cutting firewood. in the Evening two young lads came from Old Tho. tent and informed me they had killed fifteen Deer. they brought part of one Doe Deer."

Nov. 12
" Sunday wind NE with much snow had fallen."

Nov. 13
" Monday wind NW very sharp weather
Early this morning sent Adam Mowatt and two lads of to the Hill to fetch snow shoe frames that was laid up. they returned as Adam Mowatt fell in the River & the snow being very Deep."

Nov. 14
" Tuesday wind WNW very sharp freezing weather
This morning sent the two lads away in a Canoe acrofs the River to go to their tent, and gave them directions to keep as much of the Meat as possible till the River set fast with ice. Gave them some Ammunition and a little Liquor for the Old Man."

Nov. 15
" Wednesday wind N sharp rhymy weather
Men employed getting staves ready for sleds. the water rose to a great height in the river."

Nov. 16
" Thursday wind N sharp rhymy weather
Men employed preparing staves for Sleds and getting firewood."

Nov. 17
" Friday winds variable with light Snow at times.
Men employed turning Heads for Sleds. the water rose to a levell of the Bank."

Nov. 18
" Saturday wind N very sharp weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Nov. 19
" Sunday wind N fresh breeze clear sharp weather
The river entirely sett in with ice both up & down. Myself shot three white foxes & wounded two more standing before the Gates."

Nov. 20
" Monday wind S light airs cloudy weather
Men employed sewing sleds."

Nov. 21
" Tuesday wind N very sharp clear weather
Men employed finishing sleds."

Nov. 22
" Wednesday wind N very sharp clear weather
Men employed gathering firewood."

Nov. 23
" Thursday Calm very sharp weather
Men employed cutting out an hole in the ice to freshen salt provisions, cutting firewood also."

Nov. 24
" Friday winds variable sharp clear weather
Men variously employed"

Nov. 25
" Saturday Calm sharp clear weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Nov. 26
" Sunday Calm with exceeding sharp weather"

Nov. 27
" Monday Calm sharp weather
Men employed gathering firewood."

Nov. 28
" Tuesday Calm sharp clear weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Nov. 29
" Wednesday wind N light airs sharp clear wea.
Men employed cutting firewood."

Nov. 30
" Thursday wind NW stiff breeze very sharp drifting weather
Early this Morning two young Men & their wives came here & brought some provisions & a few skins to trade Iron work."

Dec. 1 1797
" Friday wind E mild with much snow.
The Indians remained here this day on account of Bad weather."

Dec. 2
" Saturday wind NE mild weather a little snow
Early in the Morning the above Indians went away. sent a little liquor as a present to an Old Man. traded 12 MB & 50 lb of Dried Meat."

Dec. 3
" Sunday wind NE strong breeze cloudy & snow the whole day.
Could observe nothing of the Eclipse as the weather was bad."

Dec. 4
" Monday wind NNW blowing & drifting all day
Men employed clearing the Snow away from the Yard. late in the Evening six young Men arrived here from different Tents loaded with provisions to trade for liquor."

Dec. 5
" Tusday wind WNW light airs clear weather
Early this Morning traded with the above Ind. and sent them away. gave them some Ammunition & liquor as encouragement to bring provisions during winter."

Dec. 6
" Wednesday Calm rhymy weather
Men employed gathering firewood."

Dec. 7
" Thursday wind WNW sharp clear weather
Men employed gathering firewood."

Dec. 8
" Friday wind NW sharp clear weather
Men employed cutting firewood &c. Late this evening Old Thomas & his two Sons came here and brought three sled loads of Deers Meat & two pair of Snow Shoes. also came for Men to fetch Meat from his tent. He informed me, that most of the Deer he had Killed was destroyed by the Animals. - Rec'd 140 lb of Green Meat."

Dec. 9
" Saturday wind NW sharp clear weather
Men employed cutting firewood. sent the Ind. boys a hunting but saw nothing about."

Dec. 10
" Sunday wind NE strong Gale with thick snow."

Dec. 11
" Monday wind E cloudy mild weather
Early this morning sent the Old Man & his Sons away to his tent as also Tho. Stricklar & Robt. Flett to accompany them to fetch meat. the rest getting firewood."

Dec. 12
" Tuesday wind ENE mild with light snow
Late in the evening the two Men I sent for meat returned with 184 lb of Green Deers Meat. they told me it was all the old man could spare."

Dec. 13
" Wednesday wind NW sharp clear weather
Men employed getting firewood."

Dec. 14
" Thursday wnd NW sharp clear weather
Men employed getting firewood."

Dec. 15
" Friday wind NW sharp clear weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Dec. 16
" Saturday wind N sharp clear weather at times
Men employed cutting firewood."

Dec. 17
" Sunday wind N sharp clear weather"

Dec. 18
" Monday wind NW sharp Drifting weather
Men employed cutting firewood &c."

Dec. 19
" Tuesday wind NW very sharp Drifting weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Dec. 20
"Wednesday wind W very severe weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Dec. 21
" Thursday wind W very severe cold weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Dec. 22
" Friday wind WNW very cold drifting weather
Men at various Jobs &c."

Dec. 23
" Saturday wind S very sharp weather
Men employed clearing the Yards from the Snow &c. The Old man Thomas & his family pitched in here."

Dec. 24
" Sunday wind N fine mild weather."

Dec. 25
" Monday wind SW fine clear sharp weather."

Dec. 26
" Tuesday wind N fine clear weather
Men variously employed."

Dec. 27
" Wednesday wind W light airs fine weather
Men employed getting firewood."

Dec. 28
" Thursday wind SW fine clear weather
Myself & two Men set of in the plains to build a few martin traps."

Dec. 29
" Friday wind ENE light snow at times.
Men employed getting firewood."

Dec. 30
" Saturday Calm fine clear weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Dec. 31
" Sunday wind E mild Cloudy weather."

Jan. 1 1798
" Monday wind WNW fine clear weather
At ten oClock AM Mr Joseph Howse arrived here from York factory after a passage of fourteen days."

Jan. 2
" Tuesday wind N light airs rhymy weather
Men employed cutting firewood &c sent the Old Man & his family away to kill furs."

Jan. 3
" Wednesday wind N light airs rhymy weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Jan. 4
" Thursday wind N fresh breeze drifting weather
Men employed getting firewood &c."

Jan. 5
" Friday wind N light airs fine clear weather
Men variously employed. At 10 oClock AM three Indians arrived here with a packet from york factory."

Jan. 6
" Saturday wind NE light airs cloudy with snow at times.
Men employed cutting firewood."

" A Copy of a Letter from Joseph Colen Esq. Chief at York Factory dated Dec. 26th 1797
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 3rd Oct. last was delivered on the arrivall of Mr Ward & party the 6th following.
Several articles intended for you by the last conveyance were left in the launch House; part of these natives have in charge a pr Invoice inclosed. - Our fall was fine and open and hitherto the Season has been mild with very little snow. The River ice was crofsed the 8 of Nov.. Game of all kinds has been and continues remarkably scarce. - Only sixteen days provisions procured by English and Indian Hunters this Winter. We are in a worst plight for Animal food, than we were at this time last season, and as there is little probability of our having any meat to support the Inland Servants on their arrival, I must therefore request you to procure and preserve as much dried meat as you possibly can.

Our last years distresses so alarmed the Natives, only three have visited this place, since I last wrote you - and I much fear this Trade will in future fall off.
I refer you to Mr Howse for particulars he had the start of the Natives some days & is I hope by this time comfortably lodged at Gordon House. My Mefsmates joins in Compliments to you and him with wishing many years of uninterupted happinefs.
I remain
Yours sincerely
PS. The books you request are sent. - you are to return all small Furs Traded by natives and send a list of the same. the articles sent by them are all weighed Seperately and the weight marked on each Bundle."

Jan. 7
" Sunday wind E with light snow warm weather."

Jan. 8
" Monday wind N fine clear mild weather.
Early this Morning dispatched three Indians with letters & small Furs to york factory. Men employed getting wood."

" A copy of a Letter sent to Joseph Colen Esq. Chief at York factory &? dated Gordon House Jan. 7 1798
Dear Sir.
On the 5 Inst. your Indians arrived here from YF and delivered every thing safe; for which I am much Oblige to you for. - I have very little news to inform you of, only few Indians have visited me as yet. My fishing Party was entirely frustrated by the mildnefs of the weather last fall. But to make up for this disappointment, soon after the first snow fell, there were plenty of Deer in the plains. We were fortunate enough to Kill five, which has been of great service and afforded me to serve out four days pr Week. Old Thomas had killd twenty, but imprudently buryed them in the snow instead of putting on a Stage, he nighly lofs the whole. I received 30 lb of him.

I have not my House any forwarder than it was last fall, as the Men here, are incapable of performing that Duty. if you should think it convenient to send a person to finish the House I should be very glad; As I can afford to keep a Man Extra at present, much more so, than in Summer.

I am sorry to find York so scarce of Game, in fact it is so here & had it not been for a few Deer we should have been very much distrefsed, but thanks to kind providence for his afsistance. you may depend upon saving as much provisions as possible for Inland. Have sent a list of small Furs taken by the Indians. - Mr Howse joins me in the same sentiments of you & the Gentlemen with you Many Happy returns of the Season.
Dear Sir
I remain
Your most Obedient Humble
Servant
James Peter Whitford."

Jan. 9
" Tuesday wind NW light airs fine clear weather
Men employed gathering firewood."

Jan. 10
" Wednesday wind NW cloudy mild weather
Men gathering firewoods &c"

Jan. 11
" Thursday wind N fine mild weather
Men employed getting firewood."

Jan. 12
" Friday wind NE strong breeze drifting light snow at times
Men employed cutting firewood."

Jan. 13
" Saturday wind N light breeze cloudy weather.
Men employed cutting firewood &c."

Jan. 14
" Sunday wind N light airs warm Cloudy weather."

Jan. 15
" Monday wind NE fresh breeze warm Cloudy weather
Employed one Man to make a few Indian Coats the others getting firewood."

Jan. 16
" Tuesday wind NE snow & drifting weather.
Men employed cutting firewood."

Jan. 17
" Wednesday wind N with very severe weather.
Men employed cutting firewood &c."

Jan. 18
" Thursday wind N light airs first part, afterwards a heavy Gale from SW Drifting
Men variously employed."

Jan. 19
" Friday wind N heavy Gales drifting & snow.
Men employed cutting firewood &c."

Jan. 20
" Saturday wind NW sharp Drifting weather.
Men employed cutting firewood."

Jan. 21
" Sunday wind W fine clear weather."

Jan. 22
" Monday wind NW very sharp weather
One man employed making Indian Coats the others getting firewood."

Jan. 23
" Tuesday wind NW very sharp Drifting weather
Men employed as yesterday."

Jan. 24
" Wednesday wind NNW very severe weather.
Men employed cutting firewood."

Jan. 25
" Thursday wind WNW exceeding sharp weather
Men employed Cutting firewood.
Myself and Mr Howse went out a hunting but could not find the track of any Animal whatever except one small porcupine which I found. Mr Howse no succefs."

Jan. 26
" Friday wind WNW strong Gale clear drifting weather
Men variously employed. Myself & Mr Howse went out a porcupine hunting. Killed one small porcupine."

Jan. 27
" Saturday wind N light airs cloudy weather.
Men employed cutting firewood."

Jan. 28
" Sunday wind NE with snow and drifting weather."

Jan. 29
" Monday wind NW fine clear weather
Men employed gathr'g firewood."

Jan. 30
" Tuesday wind SW a strong Gale drifting wea.
Men employed gathering firewood."

Jan. 31
" Wednesday wind S strong Gale thawing weather
Men employed at various Jobs."

Feb. 1 1798
" Thursday wind S a strong breeze a great thaw
Men employed at various Jobs."

Feb. 2
" Friday wind N light clear mild weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Feb. 3
" Saturday wind ENE light breeze with snow all day.
Men employed cutting firewood."

Feb. 4
" Sunday wind E with snow & drift the first part afterwards fine clear weather."

Feb. 5
" Monday wind N strong breeze Drifting weather.
Men employed clearing the snow away from before the House."

Feb. 6
" Tuesday wind N stiff breeze drifting weather.
Men employed cutting firewood &c."

Feb. 7
" Wednesday wind N sharp clear weather
One man making Indian Coats the rest getting firewood."

Feb. 8
" Thursday wind N light airs sharp clear weather.
Men employed the same as yesterday."

Feb. 9
" Friday wind N light airs sharp clear weather
Men employed getting firewood &c."

Feb. 10
" Saturday wind N sharp drifting weather.
Men employed cutting firewood."

Feb. 11
" Sunday wind W strong breeze drifting weather."

Feb. 12
" Monday wind SW light snow warm weather
At ten oClock AM A Young man came from a tent of Ind. at the Deers Lake, and brought very little provisions or skins."

Feb. 13
" Tuesday wind NW strong Gale clear drifting weather
Early this morning sent the above young Man away to his friends. sent a little liquor to an Old Leader as they kill'd sufficient Skins to pay their debts."

Feb. 14
" Wednesday wind WNW strong Gale clear weather
Men employed getting firewood."

Feb. 15
" Thursday wind NW strong Gale sharp drifting weather.
Men employed cutting firewood."

Feb. 16
" Friday wind N very sharp drifting weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Feb. 17
" Saturday wind N very sharp clear weather.
Men employed cutting firewood."

Feb. 18
" Sunday wind NE light airs rhymy weather
At 4 oClock PM An Indian Man & his family came here from the Holy Lake and paid part of his debt. He informs me that the Canadians had arrived at the Side Pine last fall. also a young lad from Thomas came here with a little provisions."

Feb. 19
" Monday wind NE light snow at intervals
At noon sent the above Indians away gave him a Keg of liquor to encourage the Natives to come down here instead of Trading with Canadians. Sent Mr Howse & one Man to the Swampy lake for a young lad to go to the factory."

Feb. 20
" Tuesday wind NE snow and drift the whole
Two Men employed cutting firewood &c."

Feb. 21
" Wednesday wind NE light snow and thick weather
Men employed getting firewood."

Feb. 22
" Thursday wind NE fine clear weather
Men employed getting firewood &c."

Feb. 23
" Friday wind NW fine mild weather
One Man getting himself ready to go with the Packet to york. the others getting firewood."

Feb. 24
" Saturday wind ENE fine warm weather
At noon Mr Howse & one Man with a young lad named Sowenafs, came from the Swampy Lake, & brought some fish."

Feb. 25
" Sunday wind SE light airs rhmy weather
In the Evening two little Girls arrived here after three days Journey from the Swampy lake, neither food, or firing these four days past."

Feb. 26
" Monday wind W fine warm weather
Early this Morning dispatched Tho. Stricklar, & Sowenafs to York factory with a packet. Men at the House cutting "

" A Copy of a Letter sent to Joseph Colen Esq. Chief at York Factory. dated. Gordon House Feb. 26 1798
Dear Sir
On the 11th Inst. one Indian lad came here from the Deers lake & brought little or nothing. and the 18th Inst. Cha cha Oo taw nish or Bungee Boy & family arrived here & paid part of his Debt trusted last Fall.
And am very sorry that I'm Obliged to put the Company to further expence of a Packet, but I thought it was Indespensably my Duty to inform you as early as possible of the disagreeable Intelligence I received from this Man of One Canoe of Goods, with the Canadians (five in number) arrived at the place called Side Pine last Fall. There were three canoes of Canadians arrived at Jack River, and afterward they dispatched this one to the Side Pine. - I am affraid that Mr Isham has not any Men to spare to oppose them, or otherwise, we should have heard from them. It is the intention of the Canadians to explore the Holy Lake this Summer and build an House there and not at the Side Pine as they had told the Indians. This man tells me they have very few Goods remaining and very little Ammunition left. this is certainly a proof that some of the Natives have visit'd them, or they could not have known what they have. Mefsergommescum & party were there Pilots. I hope the Hon'ble Companys Intrest not be meterially injured this Season by the Natives in that quarter as a great number of them are tenting in the Knee Lake. Also I have been informed of another settlement that the Canadians arrived at last Fall, the name of which place is Na,cow,oopow Sackahaggon. if it is true, this Settlement will be more Injurious then the One at the Side Pine. it is a little distance from the Gods Lake and seven days walk from this House, it is on the borders of York & Severn Bungees Country and also the Hunting Ground of two thirds of the HomeGuards and what still confirms it, is, that of the many Indians that used to visit me last Winter from that Quarter, none have visited me as yet. - I am much affraid that York & Severn will suffer by it, and for my situation here I am convinced that I severely feel it. - By your last packet I gave you to understand I had great expectations of storing Provisions purposely for Inland; I am very sorry that those Ideas are entirely vanished, it will be too late in a short time for the Natives to travel therefore I have very little to look for from their afsistance
I had flattered myself of having the Confidence of the Natives in general, but I cannot help saying how weak is the thought to suppose that they'll come seven or eight days Journey purposely to Oblige me or my Employers, when at the same time they can get there supplies at their tent doors perhaps much cheaper than I can let them have the same sort of Goods for. I sent Mr Howse & one Man to the Swampy Lake for a young Lad to accompany Tho. Strickler, who will be the bearer of this. I should be much oblige to you to send me your advice, as soon as you possibly can as I expect two or three Indians here, by that time the packet returns. till then
Dear Sir
I remain
Your most obedient Humble
Servant
James Peter Whitford
P.S. A list of a few Articles is enclosed should be much Oblige to you to send. Please make my Compliments to the Gentlemen around you.
J.P.W."

Feb. 27
" Tuesday wind WNW fine clear warm weather
An Old Man & his wife came here after his Chilldren here brought a few Jack Fish."

Feb. 28
" Wednesday wind W fine clear warm weather
Sent the above Old Man Man away with his family. Men employed cutting firewood."

Mar. 1 1798
" Thursday wind SW strong Gale drifting weather
Men employed cutting firewood. In the evening three young Men came here, they brought a few skins but no provisions to trade. they bring the pleasing intelligence of having Killed sufficient Furs to pay their debts."

Mar. 2
" Friday wind SW a very strong Gale drifting weather
Men employed cutting firewood. the Ind. remaind here."

Mar. 3
" Saturday wind NW strong Gale drifting weather
Early this morning sent the young men away to their Tents. sent a few presents to Old Leaders. In the Evening three Indians came here with provisions to Trade."

Mar. 4
" Sunday wind NW more moderate drifting wea.
Traded with the above Indians and sent them away.
Received 80 lb of Half dried meat."

Mar. 5
" Monday wind W very sharp weather
Men employed cutting firewood. Late this Evening came here four young men from different Leaders to trade provisions."

Mar. 6
" Tuesday wind W very sharp clear weather
Traded with the above young men and gave them a few presents for their Leaders. sent them away to their friends."

Mar. 7
" Wednesday wind W light snow drifting weather
Men employed cutting firewood. At Noon an Indian & his wife came here to trade provisions."

Mar. 8
" Thursday wind W very sharp clear weather
Early this morning sent the Indians away. Men employed cutting firewood."

Mar. 9
" Friday wind W very sharp weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Mar. 10
" Saturday wind SW clear cold weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Mar. 11
" Sunday wind SW strong Gale drifting weather."

Mar. 12
" Monday wind W strong Gale drifting weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Mar. 13
" Tuesday wind NW strong Gale drifting weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Mar. 14
" Wednesday wind SW warm thawing weather
Men variously employed."

Mar. 15
" Thursday wind SW strong Gale thawing weather
Men employed cleaning the yard of snow."

Mar. 16
" Friday wind ? fine warm thawing weather
Men employed at various Jobs. At one oClock PM Thomas Stricklar & the Boy Sowenafs arrived from York factory and deliver the Packet &c safe"

" A Copy of a Letter from Joseph Colen Esq. Chief at York Factory dated March 6th 1798
Dear Sir
By the return of the Natives the 13 Jan. last I received yours of the 7th and on the 4 Inst. Thomas Stricklar and the lad Sowenafs arrived with your Letters of the 26th Ult. The Dog having frozen his feet, or some other cause was unable to reach the factory they left him very near Penacuttway we have felt the want of the Animal very much this Winter.
You acted very proper, by dispatching a packet to me, altho' it is out of my reach to Check the Canadian Traders this winter, Yet I hope to arrange our next Summer persuits, as to defeat in some measure, their wary designs but circumstanced as I am at present it is totally out of my power to make a vigorous opposition, as York wharehouses does not contain half sufficient Cloth, and other articles, to supply its own Trade, and the present Inland stations.

Mr Hallet wrote me last Summer, of his having heard, that the Canadians, had been tampering with the Indians, to conduct them among my Homegaurds, In consequence Mr Isham was placed at Jack River; to whom I gave inftructions to follow the Canadians if they should proceed lower down, or send some capable person, to attend their motions with trading articles. My fear is, that he has not a sufficiency of Men or Goods to carry my Orders into execution as I heard last fall he was to be deprived of Men and one of the Canoes intended for him.
I proposed to Mr Tomison, before he left York last fall my intentions of Accompanying the Men next Spring from the Rock, so soon as the River became clear of ice; purposely to build a Store House in the Neighbourhood of Pathepowe Nippe (or deep water Lake) in order to be a Check on the Canadians and prevent their enticing away York homegaurds but he disapproved this plan, and almost put a negative to my proceedings beyond the Rock.

It was my intentions also last Fall to have sent people into the Bungee Country; a party of four Canoes came down after the departure of the Ship for the purpose of conducting Englishmen. Want of Men to manage Canoes, stopped me from putting this into Execution. The Canadians getting footing among these Indians, will be severely Felt, not only at this place, but at Severn. the Furs they collect are of the best Kind and the quantity they annually brought to trade encreased our return considerably. The principal part of York home Gaurds; are wintering on the borders of Gods Lake within two days Journey, where you tell me the Canadians are now settled. Your remark is very Just, all Natives are an Indolent race of beings and very few will undertake long Journeys to procure supplies when they can get sufficient for their wants near their Hunting Ground. this they told me last year, when I could not supply them with provisions as formerly.

All those Natives who withstand the temptation of the Canadians and bring the produce of their hunt to you or convey it to York shall be liberally rewarded; but those who carry their Furs elsewhere, shall be treated accordingly and I wish you to make this Public among the Indians who visit you; your own decrestion? will direct you how to act in this Case, and do the best you can with respect to preserving Provisions for Inland Servants. I approve your liberallity to the Bungee Boy, and sincerely hope the disagreeable intelligence, contained in your note, after the close of your Public Letter, is not true; Allowance should be made for the Chilldrens fears, and the consternation they were in on leaving their Tent, might magnify a scuffle, into actual Murder, therefore should not be surprized at hearing your being visited by Old Thomas before you receive this. I wish you may as the lofs of a good Indian would be severely felt. not only at this factory but by his large family. - who would become dependant on it.
Tho. Stricklar is not able to haul all the Articles you want they shall be sent by the first Boat. a list of those sent is enclosed.
Mr McKay having requested permission to visit Severn. I engaged two Indians and every preparation was made for his leaving the Factory when he suddenly changed his mind and actually set of for Churchill the 13 of last Month; he has not made much progrefs in his Journey, he is no farther than below Sams? Creek acrofs Nelson River, whither he intends visitng that Settlement or not, it is not in my power to determine.
Prevail on all the Indians you can to bring their Birch Snow Shoe frames to you, in the spring they will be a great saving to this factory. Game continues remarkably scarce, more so than has been known for some years at this season, altho we are twelve lefs to provide for than we had last year. - yet it is with difficulty to provide Days pr Week fresh provisions.
My Mefsmates joins me in Compliments to you and Mr Howse.
I remain
Yours &c."

Mar. 17
" Saturday wind S fine thawing weather
Men cutting firewood."

Mar. 18
" Sunday wind S strong Gale clear thawing weather
At noon Four Indians and their families came here brought a little provisions."

Mar. 19
" Monday wind S fresh breeze clear weather
Traded with the above Indians and sent them away."

Mar. 20
" Tuesday wind S light airs thawing very much
Men employed at various Jobs."

Mar. 21
" Wednesday wind NNE fine clear weather
Men employed getting firewood."

Mar. 22
" Thursday wind NE fine warm thawing weather
Men variously employed."

Mar. 23
" Friday wind W fine warm thawing weather
Men variously employed."

Mar. 24
" Saturday SW wind Cloudy thawing weather
At Noon two Indians came here with a little provisions to trade. they inform me they'll be unable to pay their Debts."

Mar. 25
" Sunday wind WNW strong Gale thawing weather
Early this morning sent the Indians away their tent."

Mar. 26
" Monday wind NW strong Gale clear weather
Men employed cutting Stockades."

Mar. 27
" Tuesday wind S fine warm weather
Men employed cutting stockades."

Mar. 28
" Wednesday wind SW fine warm thawing weather
Men employed cutting stockades."

Mar. 29
" Thursday wind NE with little snow at times.
Men employed getting firewood &c."

Mar. 30
" Friday wind NE with snow at times,
Men employed cutting stockades."

Mar. 31
" Saturday wind NNE fine clear weather
Men employed cutting firewood."

Apr. 1 1798
" Sunday wind NW sharp cold weather."

Apr. 2
" Monday wind SW strong Gale clear weather
Employed plaining boards for the upper flooring."

Apr. 3
" Tuesday wind S strong Gale warm weather
Men employed plaining boards for the upper flooring."

Apr. 4
" Wednesday wind SW strong Gale thawing weather
the first appearance of the Fall at the Rock opening. Men employed as yesterday."

Apr. 5
" Thursday wind WSW fine warm thawing weather
Men employed plaining boards &c."

Apr. 6
" Friday wind NW with snow at times.
Men employed plaining boards &c."

Apr. 7
" Saturday wind NE with Snow at times
Men employed getting firewood."

Apr. 8
" Sunday wind NE cold raw weather."

Apr. 9
" Monday wind NE fine mild weather
Men employed gathering the stockades together."

Apr. 10
" Tuesday wind NE fine mild weather.
Men employed gathering Stockades."

Apr. 11
" Wednesday wind NE fine warm weather
Men employed gathering stockades."

Apr. 12
" Thursday wind NE fine clear cold weather.
Men employed gathering stockades."

Apr. 13
" Friday wind NE cold clear weather
Men employed getting stockades. Early this morning two young Men brought a little provisions to trade from the Deers lake. they informed they got all their Debts."

Apr. 14
" Saturday wind NE cold clear weather
Sent the above young Men away gave them some Ammunition and a little liquor as a present. and at Noon Old Thomas and family pitch in Order to kill Geese."

Apr. 15
" Sunday wind NE clear cold weather."

Apr. 16
" Monday wind NE clear cold weather
Men employed getting Stockades. Indians hunting but could not get anything."

Apr. 17
" Tuesday wind S light airs fine warm weather
Men employed getting stockades."

Apr. 18
" Wednesday wind N cloudy warm weather
Men employed getting stockades &c."

Apr. 19
" Thursday wind N fine clear weather
Men employed getting stockades &c."

Apr. 20
" Friday wind SW fine clear weather
Men employed collecting stockades. A Swan was seen."

Apr. 21
" Saturday wind NE rain and sleet all day
Men employed getting firewood."

Apr. 22
" Sunday wind SSW strong Gale cloudy weather."

Apr. 23
" Monday wind SW strong breeze clear thawing wea.
Men employed making trunnels for the stockades."

Apr. 24
" Tuesday wind S with thawing weather.
Men employed making trunnels. Ind. hunting. no Animals about."

Apr. 25
" Wednesday winds variable with thawing wea.
Men employed as before."

Apr. 26
" Thursday wind N cold weather
Sent two Indians to the Hill to seek for Deers track. Men employed making trunnels."

Apr. 27
" Friday wind NE fine clear weather
Men employed making trunnels. saw three Geese for the first time this season."

Apr. 28
" Saturday wind SW fine clear weather
Men employed getting firewood."

Apr. 29
" Sunday wind NE cloudy with snow at times."

Apr. 30
" Monday wind NE Cloudy warm weather
Men employed making trunnels. The two Indians came from the Hill they could not meet with any thing."

May 1 1798
" Tuesday wind E strong Gale thick snow all day.
Men cutting firewood."

May 2
" Wednesday wind SE very strong Gale thick snow
Men employed making trunnels for stockades."

May 3
" Thursday wind S fine clear weather
Men employed clearing the snow away. in the Evening the Old Man Killed the first Goose."

May 4
" Friday winds variable clear thawing weather
Men employed making trunnels. Rec'd 3 Geese."

May 5
" Saturday wind variable clear thawing weather in the evening rain & sleet.
Men employed getting a little firewood. Rec'd 5 Geese."

May 6
" Sunday wind NE with snow at times
sent four young Men & theirs wives away to the Hill to shoot. no Geese seen to day."

May 7
" Monday wind ENE light airs cloudy weather
Men variously employed. No Geese seen to day."

May 8
" Tuesday wind ENE light airs cold weather
Men employed cutting firewood. No Geese seen to day."

May 9
" Wednesday wind SW fine warm weather.
Men employed cutting out the Boat from the Ice. Rec'd one Goose."

May 10
" Thursday wind SE with fine clear weather
Men employed as yesterday. Two Deers tracks were seen to day in the plains."

May 11
" Friday wind S fine hot weather
Men variously employed. Rec'd one Goose."

May 12
" Saturday wind S strong Gale fine hot weather. thunder in the evening.
Men variously employed. About twenty Deer seen to day. the Old Man Killed three does and 4 Geese."

May 13
" Sunday wind S strong Gale hot weather
sent three Men & a Boy to fetch meat. they returnd with two Doe Deer. The young Men & their wives return'd from the Hill with twenty two Geese. I sent them of immediately to afsist in Killing Deer. The Ice upon the Fall broke up which made much water."

May 14
" Monday wind S strong Gale hot weather
Sent the Men to fetch meat, returned with two Deer. Much water on the River. the Fall choaked up."

May 15
" Tuesday wind NW fine clear weather
Sent Men to fetch meat, they returned without any as there are no Deer about."

May 16
" Wednesday wind NE with rain sleet & snow all day
Men variously enployed. a little Ice came down from above the Fall then choaked."

May 17
" Thursday wind S fine hot weather. Much ice came down and lodge on the Fall.
Men employed digging the Garden."

May 18
" Friday wind S hazy hot weather
The Indians returned from Deer hunring as they had all passed. The ice below the Fall made a push & then stoped."

May 19
" Saturday Wind S strong breeze hazy weather
At 9 oClock the ice began breaking up very furiously and went passed the House but leaving much ice on the Island & the Shore."

May 20
" Sunday wind NE with rain & thunder at times.
Ice still driving in the River. The Ind. pitching canoes."

May 21
" Monday wind SW strong breeze with rain towards evening.
Early this morning Old Thomas & his family embarked in two Canoes for York factory to pay his Debt. two young men left behind to wait for their Friends to bring them Canoes."

May 22
" Tuesday wind W strong breeze cloudy weather
Men employed various Jobs. In the evening the net."

May 23
" Wednesday wind NE with rainy weather
Men variously employed. No fish in the River as yet."

May 24
" Thursday wind NE with rainy weather
Men employed as yesterday."

May 25
" Friday wind W fine clear hot weather
Men employed clearing the plantation."

May. 26
" Saturday wind SW fine clear hot weather
Men employed clearing the plantation &c."

May 27
" Sunday wind SW strong Gales clear hot weather."

May 28
" Monday wind SW strong Gales clear hot weather
Men employed taking packed Goods out of the wharehouse to air."

May 29
" Tuesday wind SW strong Gales clear hot weather
Men employed as yesterday and stowing the Goods away."

May 30
" Wednesday wind S fine clear hot weather Men employed cleaning the storehouses."

May 31
" Thursday wind S fine clear hot weather
Men employed as various Jobs."

June 1 1798
" Friday wind SW fine breeze clear hot weather
Men employed fishing but caught no fish except a few suckers."

June 2
" Saturday wind WSW fine clear weather
Men variously employed."

June 3
" Sunday wind SW strong breeze clear hot weather
At Noon Nine Canoes of Indians arrived here gave them some liquor."

June 4
" Monday wind ENE fine hot clear weather
Early this morning three Canoes Southard Indians from the Holy lake arrived here well Gooded, and they informed me that the Canadians were at the Side Pine and none of these had been nigh them this winter for which I treated them in the same manner as if they had been at the factory."

June 5
" Tuesday wind ENE fine hot weather
Myself and Mr Howse employed trading with the Natives. Traded near 300 MB. Traded two new Canoes."

June 6
" Wednesday wind SW strong Gale very hot weather
Employed dispatching the Indians away. 7 Canoes set of for York factory and two for the Holy Lake."

June 7
" Thursday wind ENE fine hot weather
Men employed tying up Furs &c."

June 8
" Friday wind ENE fine hot weather
Myself and two Men in two Canoes went down the River to take Pine bark, returned with 50 peices."

June 9
" Saturday wind SW fine clear hot weather
At Noon 6 Canoes of Bungees arrived here well Gooded of Furs to Traded. and a little while afterwards Wm Manson and James Hourie steersmen, with two Boats loaded with Good and provisions for Inland."

" A Copy of a Letter from Joseph Colen Esq. Chief at York Factory. dated. May 31st 1798
Dear Sir
Yours of the 20th Inst. was delivered about three days ago. What you suggest respecting the falling off the Trade this Summer I am apprehensive will prove true. Only three Canoes of Natives have arrived as yet. One of them Bungees who tells me the Canadians have a settlement in the center of their Hunting Ground, and that the skins were collected from them so soon as the Anumals were Killed. It is to be fear that my Homegaurds have been much impoverished by these enterprizing traders.
Nothing can be done towards the erecting a House at Deep water Lake until the arrival of the Gentleman from Inland. I settled this businefs with Mr Sutherland last Summer, also with MrTomison in the fall. they are to look out for a proper spot for a settlement.
Our River Ice gave way 15th on the 23rd we had a clear channel much lofty Ice is left along Shore, & on the Banks of the River. which necefsitates me to send off the first Boats well manned, on the Men's return every thing thing will be ready for their making a second Trip, and as I shall engage Natives to accompany me the Craft I take up will nearly empty our warehouses.
Should any of the Officer or Companys servants arrive at Gordon House before you see me, they are to be fitted out immediately to convey Goods either to meet the Boats, to Jack River, or where the new settlement is to be made. it wll be forwarding businefs, their coming to factory will delay much time, and as we have no Goods in the Ware House, besides what the boats will take, therefore their coming below Gordon House will answer no purpose whatever. After the Canoes have made one trip they will be in time to meet the Ship, when they can take up Cloth Bundles.
The Medicines for each House is sent, as is wine, Rum and all Kinds of Grocery also Provisions, so that every Gentlemen can be supplied with every article the same as at the factory as you will see pr Invoice. - Mr Howse will be a great afsistance in forwarding businefs on the arrival of the Canoes. he is to remain ar Gordon house untill the second Trip of Boats when I shall settle his furture destination.
Part of the Articles you wrote for are sent and those which are not ready shall be taken the next Trip. - Wishing you all manner of happinefs and a quick sight of the Men.
I remain yours &c
PS If you have occasion to detain any Man at Gordon House to fit up any of your apartments, send down one in his room to afsist tracking up boats."

June 10
" Sunday wind SW very Hot sultry weather
Indians remained this day."

June 11
" Monday wind S fresh breeze hazy hot weather
Myself and Mr Howse employed trading with the Natives. Traded upwards of 400 MB & 78 belonging to York Debt."

June 12
" Tuesday wind S fine hot weather with thunder showers.
Early this Morning Wm. Manson & Ja. Hourie sett off for york factory. soon after the Boats was dispatched an Indian Woman was Missing in the night and has not been heard of since. The Indians remained here in expectation of finding the above Woman."

" A Copy of a Letter sent to Joseph Colen Esq. Chief at York Factory dated Gordon House June 12th 1798
Dear Sir
I received yours dated the 31st of May the 9th? and the same time six Canoes of Bungees arrived here, which I have taken the liberty of detaining the Boats, crew, longer than I should otherwise have done, purposely to protect the Company's property, these Indians inform me that the Canadians have invaded there hunting Ground, notwithstanding these Indians have visited them, there's not a doubt of. Neverthelefs they brought me a good trade, making Gordon House Trade 1300 MB including 78 MB your Debt. - My having early Intelligence last Summer of these surprizing Traders made me use the Indians liberally which has been the means of my Expences being rather enlarged. however I hope ? they'll not be thought too great as my only Aim has been to encrease the Companys trade by procuring more Furs.
You'll please to excuse my writing more at this time, being busily employed getting the Natives away. I shall inform you of further particulars on your arrival. Till then
Dear Sir
I am
Your most Obedient Humble
Servant
James Peter Whitford"

June 13
" Wednesday wind S strong Gale thunder at times.
This morning the Indians went away leaving One Man & two Chilldren to look after his wife. sent one Englishman this man down to the factory."

June 14
" Thursday wind E light airs with rain & thunder.
About the middle of the day the roof of the middle store House felling during the thinder storm only two young Hands remains with me Obliges me to let it remain till more men arrive."

June 15
" Friday wind variable & calm cloudy weather
Men cleaning the wall peices."

June 16
" Saturday wind variable with calm cloudy weath.
Men variously employed."

Errors Excepted
James Peter Whitford."



B.81/a/3

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