This is a virtually complete transcription of the Manchester House Journal of 1787-88 by Alex Nicol. I think.
" A Journal of the most remarkable Transactions and Occurrences at Cumberland? Hudson? House from 1st May 1787 to 3rd June 1788 by William Tomison"
[Cover]
May 1 1787
" Tuesday at 9 AM Mr Tomison embarked with 14 men besides himself in 6 Canoes loaded with furrs and some provisions. hard Gales at SE PM."
May 2
" Wednesday at 10 AM sent off 9 Men by land with Horses loaded with furrs 22 Bundles for Hudson House and 4 to return with the Horses and to stay up for the Summer. hard Gales at SE."
May 3
" Thursday Gilbert Laughton Employed making oars for the Boat. moderate with wind variable all round."
May 4
" Friday AM the men employed as Yesterday. hard Gales of wind at NNW and the water in the river rising fast."
May 5
" Saturday AM the men Employed in making of a Garden Gate and other necefsary Jobbs. the Hunter went off and killed 3 Red Deer. hard Gales at NW PM 2 Men went and brought home the Meat."
May 6
" Sunday fine Weather and moderate. the water as high as it commonly has been seen at so Early a time of the Season. wind NW."
May 7
" Monday the Black Smith employed making some fire steels. one Man clearing and working in the Garden, hard Gales of wind at NW."
May 8
" Tuesday AM 2 men bringing home the meat of 2 Red Deer. one man at home. wind NW."
May 9
" Wednesday AM 2 men looking after Horses the rest employed at home about other Jobs. hard Gales up the River from ENE."
May 10
" Thursday AM the men employed Clearing the Plantation. PM the Hunter came home to go acrofs the River. wind at East."
May 11
" Friday at 11 AM 5 Canoes arrived from Hudson House. at 7 AM the Hunter went acrofs the River. the Canoes brought Some trading Goods from Hudson House that was remaining and to carry away the remainder of furrs and Provisions. Calm all day."
May 12
" Saturday at 9 AM the men embarked all the furrs and 200 Pounds of soft fat. 16 men and five Canoes. 53 Bundles of furrs and Pemicarn. Calm all Day."
May 13
" Sunday Wind at ESE with flying showers all day."
May 14
" Monday the men employed taking up of Roots in the Garden and Clearing of it. hard Gales at SW with showers of rain all these 24 hours."
May 15
" Tuesday all these 24 hours flying showeers of rain. the men employed in the Garden. Wind at SW."
May 16
" Wednesday the men employed as yesterday. at 1 PM 4 men arrived from Hudson House with the Horses and to remain for the Summer. wind at SW and Cloudy."
" Received May 16th 1787
Mr Robert Longmoore Hudson House May 11th 1787
Sir
By the arrival of nine men on the 10 Instant I received 22 Bundles of furrs. 2 of which got wet in crofsing the Pike River but were opened and dried immediately. I have sent inclosed a List of the Trading goods and Stores sent up by the Canoes, which I hope you will receive, long before this. and I hope you will be carefull of the Expenditure thereof. on the 7th instant I set out for the South Branch and on the 8th got there. found all well thank god. I sorted the furrs and had half of them packed before I came away. there being too much to be done here. I could not stay any Longer. Mr Walker and Mitchel Oman has done as well as could be expected. Indeed the man that keeps from Liquor as they do cannot fail in doing well for I must say they are strictly so and wish I could say the same of others. so conclude with wishing you health and happinefs succefs to the Company's affairs. and Remain
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
William Tomison."
May 17
" Thursday hard Gales of wind at NE the men all employed looking after Horses. only 2 to take care of the House. Drizling rain all day."
May 18
" Friday at 11 AM the Hunter sent word to fetch meat. Blowing hard with flying showers all day. could not swim Horses acrofs the River. wind at North. the men employed as yesterday."
May 19
" Saturday Blowing hard with Snow. Sent men off to bring the meat with the Hunters Horses. wind NE."
May 20
" Sunday at 10 AM the last of Pangman's Canoes went off. the men arrived with the meat of a Doe Moose and a young one. at 6 PM Cloudy with flying showers. wind NE men looking for Horses."
May 21
" Monday at 6 AM 3 men went off to look after Horses. the rest employed in bringing the Hunter and his family acrofs the River and taking up of roots. the fore part Cloudy the latter clear fine weather wind variable."
May 22
" Tuesday the Hunter Horses Lost. one Swam acrofs the River. and two on the North Side. 3 men employed looking for Horses. the rest taking up Roots. hard gales at ENE."
May 23
" Wednesday AM 4 men gathering of the Horses together. at 7 PM the Hunter brought his Horses. the rest of the men employed in the Garden. William Rich that had his arm broke walking about. wind Easterly."
May 24
" Thursday AM the Hunter went off to Hunt. I sent one man with him to bring home meat, and two Horses. the men employed taking up of roots. hard gales at East."
May 25
" Friday AM 2 men looking after the Horses, the rest employed as Yesterday. fresh gale at ENE."
May 26
" Saturday AM 3 men employed looking after the Horses. the rest Clearing the Plantation. hard gales at East."
May 27
" Sunday 2 men looking after the Horses. PM the man that was with the Hunter arrived with the meat of a small Red Deer and went off directly Back. fresh gales at SE."
May 28
" Monday AM Sent 2 men off to tent about 3 miles from the House to take care of the Horses. the rest taking up roots. Calm with a great rise of water in the river."
May 29
" Tuesday AM the men employed as the day before. PM fresh gales with small showers of rain. Wind NW."
May 30
" Wednesday the men employed taking up roots. the 2 men that is keeping of the Horses has found one that has been lost a long time. fresh gales at SW and Cloudy."
May 31
" Thursday the men employed taking up roots. fresh gales and Cloudy. Wind SW."
June 1 1787
" Friday the man that is with the Hunter came home with part of one Red Deer and one with him for another. the men employed as yesterday. Cloudy weather wind variable."
June 2
" Saturday AM the men employed as the day before. PM the man arrived with part of one Red Deer at 3 PM hard rain untill Night with thunder and Lightning. wind variable."
June 3
" Sunday hard Gales at NW with flying showers all day."
June 4
" Monday AM 2 men went of to seek for Horses that was lost in the Spring. the rest taking up of roots. PM hard rain with thunder. wind variable."
June 5
" Tuesday At 11 PM the 2 men arrived with 4 Horses that they found about 40 miles from the rest. employed as yesterday. fresh gales at NW."
June 6
" Wednesday the men employed as the day before. Extremely hot all day with Clear Calm weather. the man from the hunter arrived with one Red Deer."
June 7
" Thursday AM Employed as the day before. Wind NW."
June 8
" Friday the men employed as the day before. Calm and Cloudy with Drizling rain."
June 9
" Saturday AM Clear the men Clearing and burning of Rubbish on the Plantation. at 6 PM hard rain. wind NE."
June 10
" Sunday 2 men away looking after lost Horse. fresh gales of wind at NE."
June 11
" Monday AM the men employed taking up of roots fresh Gales at NE at Night rain."
June 12
" Tuesday the men employed as Yesterday. PM the 2 men returned but found none of the Horses. fresh Gales at ESE."
June 13
" Wednesday AM the men Employed falling of wood to build a House for to hold Provisions. At 11 AM the Hunter and the man that is with him brought part of the meat of 2 Moose. fresh gales with flying showers all day."
June 14
" Thursday AM the Hunter and the man that is with him went back. the men at the House employed as the day before. Calm all day."
June 15
" Friday AM Mr Robert Longmoor burnt 16 Pounds of Tobacco Brazill damaged and rotten not fit for use or to be seen by any Indian: Damaged at York Factory: wind variable all round."
June 16
" Saturday the water rising very fast in the River. the men employed putting all up Stairs that will take any damage with the water. at 5 PM the water came over the Island. at 7 PM 9 Inches of water all over the lower floor. Calm."
June 17
" Sunday AM hard rain the water falling off. the men employed in draining the water out of the yard. fresh Gales at NW."
June 18
" Monday AM the men employed in clearing and draining the Garden. every thing washed up. and great part of the Stockades on 2 Sides ready to tumble down. only for the props that is at them. flying Showers at NE."
June 19
" Tuesday AM the men employed as Yesterday. at 2 PM Isaac Batt arrived and brought the meat of one Buffalo. 2 Blood Indians killing of Provisions to come in with. one keg of mixed Brandy lying in the Cellar when the fresh came; and cannot be got out. and the Cellar cannot be baled; so I am afraid it will be lost. wind ESE."
June 20
" Wednesday AM Isaac Batt went back to his tent. sent one Pound of Tobacco to the Indians. the men employed as Yesterday. fresh Gales at SW."
June 21
" Thursday AM the men drying of meat and carrying of wood. fresh Gales at SW."
June 22
" Friday AM the men employed drying of meat and carrying of wood. the yard almost dry but the river still very high. PM one Southern Indian Arrived."
June 23
" Saturday AM Isaac Batt arrived and 2 Blood Indian men with him. a few wolves and some provisions and 1 Buffalo in green meat; hard Gales of wind at WNW with flying showers. the men employed taking of Pine Bark. the man that is with the Hunter arrived with some beat meat and a little half dryed meat."
June 24
" Sunday AM the men employed in bringing the Indians acrofs the River. trading provisions all day. at 6 PM finished and put them over. hard gales at NW with flying Clouds."
June 25
" Monday AM 3 Men employed in bringing the Indians and their Horses acrofs the River. at 10 AM finished crofsing the Indians. Employed Cov'ring Part of the House with Pine Bark. fresh Gales at NW with flying showers."
June 26
" Tuesday the men employed as Yesterday. the Hunter arrived with a little green meat, part Moose, part Buffalo. fresh Gales at WNW."
June 27
" Wednesday AM the men went acrofs the River to take Bark for the House. wind at North."
June 28
" Thursday the men employed taking of pine Bark. PM Mr Robert Longmoor and Isaac Batt and 2 Indians went away for Birch Rind. James Spence Senior left in care of the House by Mr Tomison's orders if in case I should have any call to go away. PM cloudy with Rain wind at SE."
June 29
" Friday the men employed crofsing of some Blackfoot Indians: with a little provisions: some of them that was going to the french Houses to trade, our men would not crofs them. the Indians took their oars from them. the men was afraid and put off without oars. one Indian fired 2 Arrows into the Boat but hurt none. PM went back for the oars. fresh gales at NW with flying showers."
June 30
" Saturday the men employed as Yesterday. Moderate Breezes at SW."
July 1 1787
" Sunday fine weather with wind at ENE."
July 2
" Monday the men employed taking of Pine Bark. Clear weather wind at SW."
July 3
" Tuesday the men employed as Yesterday. Cloudy with wind at SW."
July 4
" Wednesday the men employed bringing home of bark all day Drizling rain wind at SE."
July 5
" Thursday the men bringing fall Indians acrofs with a little half dry provisions. Drizling rain wind at SE."
July 6
" Friday the men employed crofsing the Indians back and fore. Clear weather wind WNW."
July 7
" Saturday the men employed crofsing of Indians Clear weather wind at West. all the Indians gone."
July 8
" Sunday Cloudy weather and small showers of rain wind ENE."
July 9
" Monday AM 10 tents of Indians nigh at hand. they have been at war with the Blood Indians and killed some women and Children and taken some of their Children for Slaves. and now all run off for fear of the Cree Indians and Sufsew Indians. and I am very much afraid it will do a great deal of harm to this House as the Blood and Muddy river Indians will be afraid to come in next winter. Cloudy wind SE."
July 10
" Tuesday the men employed taking Care of the House. as it is constantly full of Natives. Clear Weather wind SW."
July 11
" Wednesday AM at 11 the Indians put up on the north side opposite to the Island. 10 Tents of Crees and Sufsew Indians. the men employed taking care of the House. wind WNW and Clear."
July 12
" Thursday the men attending of the House for the Indians always in. Clear weather wind in the NW Quarter."
July 13
" Friday the men attending as before. the water low on the North Side the Indians crofses on foot. Clear weather wind NW."
July 14
" Saturday the water rising very high. 2 men attending of Indians all day but not trading untill Mr Robert Longmoor arrives. Some of the young men away a hunting. they will drive all the Buffalo off as they are only lately come nigh hand. hard wind at West."
July 15
" Sunday the men attending as before. Wind SW."
July 16
" Monday AM the Indians pitched their Tents on the Top of the bank about 200 Yards farther off. the men attending as before. wind SW."
July 17
" Tuesday the men brought home all the Horses and put them within the Stockades. the water still rising. the Indians as before. wind SW."
July 18
" Wednesday at 10 AM Mr Robert Longmoor arrived with some Birch Rind. the men cutting of Grafs for the Horses. 24 Tents of Stone Indians arrived on the South Side. and put up on a Hill at a little distance from the river. wind NW."
July 19
" Thursday AM the men attending and bringing Indians acrofs to trade their Provisions and some attending in the House. wind NE."
July 20
" Friday the men's employ as Yesterday. the Indians trading and making ready to go away. 2 men cutting of Grafs for the Horses. Drizling rain little wind in the SE Quarter."
July 21
" Saturday the men employed overhauling drying and stowing away the provisions and fat: and some few Indians trading. the Sufsew Indians all went away. wind variable."
July 22
" Sunday AM the Indians trading a few Beaver and some wolves. part of them gone away. wind at NW with hard rain all day."
July 23
" Monday flying Showers all day. the last of the Indians went of for fear of the Blood Indians at 4 PM."
July 24
" Tuesday part of the men taking care of the Horses to bring them home at Night for fear of Indians thieving them. the rest turning over the Provisions. Clear wind variable."
July 25
" Wednesday the men employed taking of pine bark for the House. 2 men taking care of the Horses. Clear weather wind variable."
July 26
" Thursday the men employed Carrying in wood for to build a House to hold Provisions. flying showers all this day. the Horses all brought home at night. Wind SW."
July 27
" Friday AM hard rain untill 1 PM the men turning of Provisions. fresh gales at West. taking care of the Horses as before."
July 28
" Saturday the men employed drying of some of the Provisons. Cloudy with flying showers. Wind SE."
July 29
" Sunday Cloudy at Intervals. wind variable. the men taking care of the Horses and brought home at Night."
July 30
" Monday AM at 5 Mr Robert Longmoor and James Spence went off for 4 Horses that the Indians has found. the men taking of pine bark for the victual House. hard Gales at WNW."
July 31
" Tuesday the men employed falling of wood. all the Cree Indians fled for the woods for fear of the blood Indians and Sufsew Indians. hard Gales with flying showers wind ENE."
Aug. 1 1787
" Wednesday AM Mr Robert Longmoor and the other man arrived travelled all night with the Horses. the men employed as Yesterday. wind variable and Cloudy."
Aug. 2
" Thursday the men employed building of the victual House. 2 men taking care of the Horses but not brought home at night as the Indians is all far off. wind at WSW."
Aug. 3
" Friday the men employed as Yesterday. wind in the SW Quarter."
Aug. 4
" Saturday the men overhauling of the Provisions and turning of it. hard Gales at NW."
Aug. 5
" Sunday Cloudy at Intervals at 5 PM hard rain with Thunder and Lightning wind variable."
Aug. 6
" Monday the men employed building a House for provisions. at PM hard Rain with Thunder. wind all round."
Aug. 7
" Tuesday the men employed as the day before. Drizling rain all day at 6 PM hard rain wind SE."
Aug. 8
" Wednesday the men employed building and Carrying of Logs. fresh Gales and Cloudy at Intervals wind SE."
Aug. 9
" Thursday the men employed as Yesterday. Clear weather and very hot the wind variable in the SW Quarter."
Aug. 10
" Friday the men puting up the Beams and Carrying of wood. wind variable and Cloudy."
Aug. 11
" Saturday the men overhauling of the Provisions and drying some that is turning mouldy. Cloudy weather and Extremely hot wind WNW."
Aug. 12
" Sunday AM Mr Robert Longmoor and 1 man with him went a hunting and killed a Cow Buffalo. at 6 PM arrived. Clear weather wind variable."
Aug. 13
" Monday the men employed building of the house for provisions. wind SW and a very high rise of water in the river. almost at coming over the Island."
Aug. 14
" Tuesday the men employed as Yesterday. the water falling off a little wind at West."
Aug. 15
" Wednesday AM Isaac Batt and one man went a Hunting killed one Cow Buffalo. the men at the House employed as the day before. wind SE."
Aug. 16
" Thursday the men employed roofing of the house. fresh gales at ESE."
Aug. 17
"Friday the men employed carrying in pine bark and roofing of the House. Calm and very hot."
Aug. 18
" Saturday AM sent Isaac Batt and 2 men a hunting the rest employed turning over the Provisions and drying of some meat. very Hot with light Breezes at SW."
Aug. 19
" Sunday PM the men returned and brought home the most of the meat of 1 Cow Buffalo. hard Gales at NW."
Aug. 20
" Monday 2 men employed plaistering of the new house and 2 at the Pit Saw. PM hard Gales of wind at NW with Thunder and rain."
Aug. 21
" Tuesday the men employed as Yesterday. hard gales of wind at WNW with flying Clouds."
Aug. 22
" Wednesday AM the men employed as the day before. Isaac Batt and 1 man a hunting. PM hard rain wind ENE."
Aug. 23
" Thursday AM hard rain. the men employed about Jobs in doors. PM rain throughout with hard gales of wind at NNW."
Aug. 24
" Friday AM 1 Tent of Muddy river Indians Sent for Tobacco of which they will end. PM flying showers wind NW. at 4 they arrived their chief businefs is to make it up between the blood Indians and Crees and Sufsew Indians to be at peace and all to come to the Houses as before."
Aug. 25
" Saturday AM the muddy river Indian traded his few furrs and left word where James Gaddy would find him in the fall where he is to stay for him and directions which way to go to keep out of the way of the Snake Indians. the men turning over the provisions. wind WSW."
Aug. 26
" Sunday AM small flying showers with fresh Breezes at the West. the river rising fast."
Aug. 27
" Monday AM the men employed. 2 at the pit saw the rest laying the floor of the new House. Isaac Batt and William Rich a Hunting. Clear weather. wind at WNW."
Aug. 28
" Tuesday the men employed as the day before. PM the Hunters arrived with part of 2 Cows. Cloudy. wind SW."
Aug. 29
" Wednesday the men employed as Yesterday. fresh Gales at ENE and Clear."
Aug. 30
" Thursday 2 men at the pit Saw the rest employed making a Door and Window Shuters for the new house. wind in the NE Quarter."
Aug. 31
" Friday the men employed pulling down the Chimney in the mens house to build a new one. Clear and very hot. all day Calm."
Sept. 1 1787
" Saturday the men employed building of the Chimneys the new house finished. 18 foot by 14 with an upper floor in it. Calm and very hot."
Sept. 2
" Sunday AM very heavy rain and thunder untill 2 PM Cloudy at 3 PM Clear. wind WSW."
Sept. 3
" Monday AM the men employed building of the Chimneys at 1 PM hard rain wind ENE."
Sept. 4
" Tuesday hard rain all day. Employed turning over the dry meat. wind ENE rain throughout."
Sept. 5
" Wednesday Served out Isaac Batt Ammunition and 4 men to go with horses to meet the Canoes and to kill provisions for them. the rest of the men finished the Chimney. PM rain wind at ENE."
Sept. 6
" Thursday the men went off with Horses to lighten the Canoes. the men at the House Setting up of the Stockades. PM Drizling rain wind SW."
Sept. 7
" Friday the men employed setting uprights to 1 Quarter of the Stockades. fresh gales at WNW with flying showers."
Sept. 8
" Saturday the men employed Clearing of the Cellar that has falling in and almost filled up when the great fresh was. hard Gales in the NW Quarter with flying showers."
Sept. 9
" Sunday Cloudy with fresh Gales of wind at NW."
Sept. 10
" Monday the men employed about the Chimney in the room. fresh Gales at NW. Robert Longmoor killed 1 Buffalo."
Sept. 11
" Tuesday the men employed as Yesterday. Cloudy. PM hard rain. wind all round."
Sept. 12
" Wednesday the men employed at the Chimneys and one looking after the Horses every day. Cloudy all day. wind NW."
Sept. 13
" Thursday AM hard frost. the men employed digging of the Cellar. at 11 AM the men employed at plaistering of part of the House. hard Gales at NNE."
Sept. 14
" Friday AM employed as Yesterday. PM finished the Chimney. fine clear weather. wind ENE."
Sept. 15
" Saturday the men employed all day turning and overhauling of the Provisions. Clear and moderate wind in the SE Quarter."
Sept. 16
" Sunday AM flying showers with very hard gales of wind at NW and continued throughout. received part of a Red Deer from an Indian."
Sept. 17
" Monday the men employed plaistering of the Chimney and cutting wood. fresh Gales at NW and Clear."
Sept. 18
" Tuesday the men employed plaistering part of the House and one constantly looking after the Horses. Clear. wind variable."
Sept. 19
" Wednesday AM Mr Robert Longmoor went a hunting killed 3 Cows and brought home the Prime of the meat. wind variable the men puting part of the Stockades to rights."
Sept. 20
" Thursday the men employed as Yesterday.. at 11 AM 3 Indians arrived with nothing. Clear weather wind variable at 8 PM hard rain throughout the night."
Sept. 21
" Friday the men employed turning over the Provisions. rain all day. at 1 PM the Indians went away. they only came to see if the Canoes was arrived. wind NW."
Sept. 22
" Saturday the men employed making of the Cellar deeper as the water is gone out of it. flying showers of Snow all day. wind NNW."
Sept. 23
" Sunday AM Cloudy all day with fresh Gales of wind a ENE."
Sept. 24
" Monday AM hard rain at 10 Clear. 2 men away bringing of white Earth to white wash the House and 1 man looking after the Horses. PM Clear. wind at NW."
Sept. 25
" Tuesday the men employed plaistering and white washing the inside of the House. fresh gales and flying showers. wind NW."
Sept. 26
" Wednesday the men employed as Yesterday. 1 man away all day looking for Horses. 7 not to be found. Expected to be stole away by Indians at a great distance. hard Gales at NNW."
Sept. 27
" Thursday one man went with a Horse for half of a Red Deer killed by a hunter of Macky's. 1 looking after Horses. white washing of the House. fresh gales at NW. 2 Indians arrived to see if the Canoes was come."
Sept. 28
" Friday AM the Indians went off. the men employed setting up some of the Stockades. Cloudy all day wind variable."
Sept. 29
" Saturday AM Mr Robert Longoor went a Hunting killed a Buffalo. the men employed white washing of the Chimneys amd victual House. Clear and Hot. wind NE. PM Mitchel Oman arrived with the news of the Canoes being nigh at hand. and brought 2 Bundles of Cloth safe."
Sept. 30
" Sunday AM Cloudy all day with flying showers of sleet. wind at North."
Oct. 1 1787
" Monday the men employed cuting of wood. Cloudy with flying showers of Snow. wind NNW."
Oct. 2
" Tuesday AM 1 Cree Indian arrived to see if the Canoes was come and I desired him to send to morrow as I expected Mr Tomison at Noon. at 2 PM Mr Tomison arrived with 20 men besides himself."
" A Journal of Occurences and Transactions kept by Mr William Tomison."
July 18 1787
" Wednesday Wind NE a small Breeze with Clear weather. at 40 minutes after 10 AM took my leave of Mr Joseph Colen and embarked for Inland accompany'd by 4 English and 1 Indian Canoes. we paddled and tracked till a half past seven PM then put up a little short of Penne-cut-away River. killed one small deer to day."
July 19
" Thursday Wind Easterly a fresh gale weather cloudy with rain most part of the day. at 5 AM we embarked. tracked till noon then put up as it began to rain very hard."
July 20
" Friday Wind Northerly a fresh gale with a thick fog small rain till noon afterwards clear weather. at one PM we embarked and tracked till eight then put up a little short of steel river."
July 21
" Saturday Wind variable in the North Quarter with clear fine weather. at five AM we proceeded and tracked till 6 PM then put up about 24 miles up steel river."
July 22
" Sunday Wind SW a small Breeze weather as Yesterday. at 4 AM we proceeded and tracked till nine. then entered the hill River. where we tracked and handed at times till 7 PM then put up to pitch our Canoes. saw 4 Canoes at the Entrance of this River. those went from the factory some time before us with 16 Bundles of dry Goods. and intends to go up the middle track. they inform me that our people went past Yesterday all well thank god."
July 23
" Monday Wind and weather as yesterday. at half past 4 AM we proceeded and tracked till past 8 PM then put up a little below the first Carrying place. James Anderson entirely uselefs for this Journey which lays very heavy on Malcolm Rofs as well as myself being obliged to track most part of the day."
July 24
" Tuesday Wind variable weather as before. at 4 AM we proceeded and at a half past ? got to the first Carrying place. here we found 3 Canoes of Indians and 5 of ours a little above. one of which was broke. this accident detained us till noon afterwards Paddled handed and Carryed till 7 PM then put up having fallen in with another misfortune by James Sanderson breaking his Canoe. I have not seen so little water as there is at present for these 8 Years past."
July 25
" Wednesday Wind variable in the south Quarter with clear hot weather. at half past 4 AM we proceeded. Paddled. handed. and Carryed till 8 PM then put up. had another Canoe broke to day. have Carryed at Several Places where we did not use to carry: for want of water."
July 26
" Thursday Wind SW a fresh Breeze with Clear Sultry hot weather. at 6 AM got the Canoe repaired and proceeded as before till 7 PM then put up to pitch our Canoes. employed a great part of this day in clearing away Stones that interrupted the Pafsage."
July 27
" Friday Wind Southerly a fresh Breeze weather as Yesterday. at 4 AM we proceeded. Paddled. handed and Carryed till 7 PM then put up in the swampy Lake. had a deer from an Indian which I divided amongst 10 Canoes."
July 28
" Saturday Wind SE a fresh Breeze with sultry hot weather. at 4 AM we proceeded. paddled handed and Carryed till a half past 4 PM then put up at the Entrance of Maskeehequan Lake and sett a net for small fish from which we had middling succefs."
July 29
" Sunday Wind as Yesterday weather cloudy with rain most part of the day. repairing a leaky Canoe but could not finish for the rain. Caught a few Pike today."
July 30
" Monday Wind Westerly a strong Gale with clear weather. could not embark. got the Canoe repaired mentioned Yesterday. had very little succefs to day with our net."
July 31
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a small Breeze with clear weather till noon afterwards Cloudy with Thunder Lightning and rain. at 8 last night we embarked and paddled hard till 1 PM then put ashore for rain at 4 put off again and Paddled till 8 then put up."
Aug. 1 1787
" Wednesday Wind variable with thunder Lightning and rain at times. at 4 AM we proceeded Paddled handed and Carryed till 7 PM then put up much fatigued. early in the morning killed a young Moose in crofsing a narrow part of the Lake which was divided amongst 12 Canoes. at noon came up with the black Indian and his Sons."
Aug. 2
" Thursday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. at 4 AM we embarked and at 8 entered Pethe-Paw-Wennepee or Depth water Lake. and at 1 PM put up half way acrofs."
Aug. 3
" Friday Wind SW a small Breeze weather cloudy with rain till noon afterwards flying showers. at 12 we embarked and paddled till a half past 8 then put up. 8 Canoes went a head as also did the Indians."
Aug. 4
" Saturday Wind variable between SW and West fresh Breezes with Clear weather till noon afterwards broke out a heavy Thunder Storm attended with large hail and heavy rain which caught us between the hill and White fall carrying place. at 1 AM we proceeded. at 4 pafsed by those that went a head Yesterday. and at 8 put up on the White fall having got all over except 3 Canoes that arrived late."
Aug. 5
" Sunday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze weather cloudy with a continual rain all day. could not proceed. early this morning the Indians came up and got all over. at 6 AM one of the Indians Complained of a violent pain in his head for these 3 days past."
Aug. 6
" Monday Wind NE a stiff? gale with a Continuance of rain attended with Thunder and Lightning; still weather bound at 5 PM the Indian mentioned Yesterday Departed this Life. he was a stout able good natured man as could be found in a hundred. aged about 30 Years and will be a great lofs to Cumberland House."
Aug. 7
" Tuesday Wind NW a strong gale weather cloudy with small rain all day. could not proceed. at noon buried the Indian and gave the others 3 Gallons of Brandy to drown Sorrow."
Aug. 8
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a fresh Breeze first part Cloudy Latter part Clear weather. at half past 5 AM we embarked and paddled till 10 then carryed over Eachees-mames and paddled down the river till 8 then put up. Indians did not come up."
Aug. 9
" Thursday Wind NE a small Breeze with clear weather. at 4 PM we embarked and paddled till seven PM then put up at the head of sea river. 1 Tent of Indians came to us. also 1 Canoe of those that is carrying goods up of which he has lost 7 Hats. traded from the above 400 lbs of Different Sorts of Provisions."
Aug. 10
" Friday Wind variable light Breezes with clear weather. at 5 AM we Embarked and paddled till 2 PM then put up at the rendezvous. here we found James Tate and George Rofs. the other 4 Canoes went from this the 4th Instant as they would have done had not an unfortunate Accident happened. on the 3rd Instant at noon James Tate Gilbert Laughton and one young hand went to sett a nett for fish. the unfortunate William Saunders after having pitched their Tent. he went to cover the Goods as also did George Rofs and to take out some provisions to eat. unfortunately a loaded gun was leaning against the goods which went off. the Shot entered in at his navel and came out at his left Shoulder. so that he never spoke but once which was God have mercy on me. lay hold on me for I am gone. and Expired in about 6 minutes after. George Rofs narrowly escaped he being between the Deceased and the Gun but Stooping low down the Shot went over him."
Aug. 11
" Saturday Wind variable between NW and North weather part Cloudy part Clear and blowed at times. at a half past 6 AM we embarked and paddled 'till a half past 7 PM then put up. had some difficulty in getting round the Long Point but thank god got all safe."
Aug. 12
" Sunday Wind and weather as Yesterday. at 5 AM we proceeded and paddled under the weather shore till 3 PM then put up. blowed very hard at times out in the Lake."
Aug. 13
" Monday Wind as before but blowed much harder. at 4 AM we embarked. Paddled and Sailed till nine then obliged to put ashore as the wind and swell increased we had some difficulty in landing but thank god got all safe ashore."
Aug. 14
" Tuesday Wind NE a fresh gale with showers of rain at intervals. rained very hard in the night. still weather bound."
Aug. 15
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a small Breeze till Noon afterwards blowed fresh with clear weather. between 12 and 1 this morning we embarked and at 10 arrived at the great fall. tracked up to the long Carrying place but I found it was difficult and unsafe both for men goods and Canoes. made all hands unload and 6 men with myself went to clear the track. and the rest began to carry. at 9 PM we left off gave the men allowance of Brandy."
Aug. 16
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. at 1/2 past 3 AM we began carrying and at 2 PM got all over safe thank god. but all hands much tired. all the young hands carry tolerable well except James Anderson who is not worth Salt for this Journey being lazy and unwilling and when I speak to him he tells me that it is negroes work and that he did not come to do such Labour. such men is not deserving of any encouragement. gave the men allowance of Brandy. the Indians inform me that they heard several Guns at the bottom of the great fall which I suppose to be the Canadians."
Aug. 17
" Friday Wind SSW a fresh gale with clear weather. at 4 AM we embarked. Paddled. handed and Carried till 8 PM then put up between the crofs Lake and Cedar Lake."
Aug. 18
" Saturday Wind WSW a moderate breeze weather as Yesterday. at a 1/4 past 4 AM we proceeded on and at 9 came to 5 Tents of Indians. part of those we saw on our Journey down. from these I traded 2 Canoes for which I gave 50 Beaver in goods. also traded some Provisions and a few furrs for Liquor."
Aug. 19
" Sunday Wind Westerly a stiff gale part Cloudy part Clear. could not proceed still trading a little provisions and some skins from the Indians. have traded from them in all 700 lbs of Provisions and 130 Beaver in furrs besides 12 drest Moose Skins for Shoe Leather."
Aug. 20
" Monday Wind WNW a fresh gale with Clear weather. at half past 4 AM we embarked and at 10 obliged to put ashore at the long Point as it blowed very hard with a great swell. at 7 PM the wind favoured. Put off again and Paddled till a half past eleven then obliged to put ashore as the wind shifted to the SE. blowed fresh with rain and a great swell in the Lake. in the evening 4 french Canoes came up to us at the long Point deeply loaded for the northward. these have been no further then the sea river which falls into the great Lake. there they received and delivered their Cargoes. these inform me that John Rofs one of Mr Pangman's partners was shot by one of the other Partnership timely in the winter in defence of his Property. such is the villainy of these Robbers that they murder one another for Private Interest. 4 of our Canoes and 6 Indian separated from us in the night."
Aug. 21
" Tuesday wind variable from SE to West first part Cloudy with heavy rain Latter part blowed very hard with flying showers of hail. the uncommon Quantity of water makes it very difficult to land in most places as the low land is all overflowed and what is still worse the uncommon number of wasps which are very troblesome. I was stung in 5 places in the night which has given me much uneasinefs for the last 12 hours. in the evening saw 2 of our Canoes on an Island a little from this. but the other 2 and the Indians I have seen nothing of them."
Aug. 22
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a fresh Breeze weather part Cloudy part Clear. at 5 AM we proceeded and paddled till 11 PM then made fast our Canoes to the willows. there being no dry ground to be found. and the night very dark we could not paddle with safety being in danger of breaking the Canoes on driftwood driving down the Saskeech-e-wan River. the Canoes that separated from us the 21st Instant Joined us early this morning all well thank god but have seen nothing of the Indians."
Aug. 23
" Thursday Wind NNW a fresh gale weather cloudy with rain. at 3 AM we proceeded and paddled 'till 8 then obliged to put ashore as the wind and rain increased. made Stages for the goods as also to pitch our tents on but at the same time unable to make any fires owing to the land being overflowed and want of dry wood all which makes our Situation far from being agreeable."
Aug. 24
" Friday Wind NW a strong gale with rain till 10 AM after Cleared a little but the wind Continued. made fires and got our wet things dryed. in the evening one Canoe that parted from us 2 days ago came up having laid two nights on the top of a Beaver house."
Aug. 25
" Saturday Wind variable between NW and North fresh Breezes weather part Cloudy part Clear. at 4 AM we embarked and paddled till 9 PM but found no place to put ashore on. we made fast our Canoes to the willows and obliged to sit in them."
Aug. 26
" Sunday Wind Westerly a small Breeze with clear weather. at a half past 3 AM we proceeded and paddled till 7 PM then put up . some cut down trees and Willows and made platforms to sleep on. others stayed in the Canoes all night."
Aug. 27
" Monday little wind with clear fine weather. at 2 AM we proceeded and paddled till 7 PM then put ashore but no better situated than before all along the River; being overflowed."
Aug. 28
" Tuesday Wind variable between SW and NW first part a small Breeze but towards evening blowed fresh with Cloudy weather. at a half past 11 PM we embarked and this day at noon arrived safe at Cumberland House thank god. found Mr Hudson and those with him all well. but had the melancholy news of John Linklater being drowned in tracking up the great fall on the 10th Instant at noon. George Short had nearly shared the same fate but by the providence of god he Slipt his trace and got out of the water. this accident would not have happened had they obeyed the orders they received which was to carry over the long carrying place. it was by great Providence that William Folster and James Spence Jun. with the Canoe and Goods were not swallowed up in the breakers when they went over a large Rock."
[No entries]
Sept. 5 1787
" Wednesday Wind Southerly a small Breeze weather part cloudy part Clear. early this morning embarked 12 Canoes for the upper Settlements. and at 2 PM Embarked myself accompanied by 2 more having left the following persons at Cumberland House. Mr George Hudson in Charge. John Irvin Sen. sick. John Sebbeston lame. John Kirknefs Lame of a sore Ancle. Hugh Bakey lame of a sore Leg. James Batt willing but weak. James Anderson Lame for want of Spirit. Charles the Canadian a good hand. Malcolm Rofs and James flat. Taylor to be returned from the South Branch. the misfortune that has happened and so many lame men Obliges me to take David Thompaon as a third man in my Canoe. we paddled till 7 PM then put up. met one Indian on his Journey to Cumberland House. from whom I had 6 peices of dryed meat. which I divided amongst the 3 Canoes."
Sept. 6
" Thursday Wind Westerly a fresh Breeze with clear weather. at 5 AM we proceeded and paddled till 7 PM then put up. Musketoes numerous and very troublesome."
Sept. 7
" Friday Wind WNW fresh gales with rain at times. at 6 AM we proceeded and paddled till 8 then came to 7 Canoes, laying by to gather pitch according to orders. at 11 came up with the other 5. here we put up and all hands went a pitch gathering."
Sept. 8
" Saturday Wind variable from SW to NW fresh gales weather Cloudy with rain at intervals. at 5 AM we embarked and paddled till 7 PM then put up at the first tracking. here we found the Black Indian and his 2 Sons. but have had no luck in hunting."
Sept. 9
" Sunday Wind Northerly a fresh gale with rain in the forenoon afterwards clear weather. at 11 AM we embarked tracked and paddled till 4 PM then put up. and sent the black Indian a hunting but returned without Succefs."
Sept. 10
" Monday Wind variable from SW to West fresh Breezes weather part Cloudy part Clear. at 6 AM we proceeded and paddled till 6 PM then put up. a strong frost in the night."
Sept. 11
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a moderate breeze with cloudy weather. at 5 AM we proceeded tracked and Paddled till 6 PM then put up froze hard last night."
Sept. 12
" Wednesday Wind NW squally weather with flying showers of hail at times rained very hard all the latter part of the night and till 9 this morning. at 11 we embarked and tracked till 7 PM then put up. the Black Indian killed a large grizzle Bear. he was hunting in the woods and had come down to the river side. the Bear being to Leeward. came after him. the Indian took the water and stay'd till the Bear was going to make a Spring at him then fired his Gun loaded with 2 Balls and both lodged in his Body afterwards fired a second time and killed him. the animal was very fat but not all together agreeable eating. notwithstanding necefsity obliged us to eat him. a sharp frost in the night."
Sept. 13
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. at 6 AM we embarked and tracked till 7 PM then put up. the black Indian killed 1 Red Deer to Day which was divided amongst the Canoes a smart frost in the night."
Sept. 14
" Friday Wind SW a fresh Breeze with clear weather. at 6 AM we proceeded and tracked till 6 PM then put up much fatigued by the badnefs of the road."
Sept. 15
" Saturday Wind Southerly a fresh Breeze with thick fog in the morning afterwards clear weather. at a half past 5 AM we embarked. and tracked till noon then put up at the South Branch to pitch and dry our Canoes. here we found one Canadian and one Indian hunting for the Canadians. from these I had the half of one Red Deer which was very acceptable."
Sept. 16
" Sunday Wind variable from west to North squally weather with rain most part of the day. could not proceed in the evening a heavy squall. it turned over some of our Canoes and broke one very much."
Sept. 17
" Monday Wind Westerly a fresh Breeze with thick foggy weather in the morning afterward clear weather. at 7 AM I embarked with five Canoes for the South Branch House. gave orders to repair the Canoe that was broken last Evening. and then to proceed on their Journey as far as 12 miles above Hudson House. at which place some were to stop till my arrival from the Branch. but James Tate with the others to go on in Search of Buffalo. tracked till a half past 5 PM then put up. the road much better than reported."
Sept. 18
" Tuesday Wind NW a moderate breeze with clear weather. at a half past 5 AM we proceeded and tracked till 6 PM then put up. this Branch is much easier to go up than the other. when the water is high."
Sept. 19
" Wednesday Wind variable with clear fine weather. at 5 AM we proceeded and tracked 'till a half past 8 PM then 1 Canoe with myself arrived at the South Branch House. found Mr Walker and those with him all well thank god. a middling stock of Provisions a good garden and every thing else agreeable."
Sept. 20
" Thursday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear weather. at 8 AM the other 3 Canoes arrived brought all safe. Mr Walker and myself examining the Packages and the remains which are very trifling."
Sept. 21
" Friday Wind Easterly a strong gale weather cloudy with rain towards noon. at 1 PM set out acrofs land to meet the Canoes accompanyed by Mitchel Oman James Oman and Magnus Annel. we travelled till 6 PM then put up both wet and cold. I was sorry to turn Mitchel Oman out of his Place but still more so: to turn out a man that had served the Honourable Hudsons Bay Company 7 years."
Sept. 22
" Saturday Wind Northerly squally weather with snowy showers all day. at 6 AM we sett out and travelled 'till 1 PM then got to the river side 6 miles above where I appointed to meet the Canoes. 3 of which had just gone past and a fourth one came up to us."
Sept. 23
" Sunday Wind NW a small Breeze with a thick fog in the morning but towards noon cleared up. at 5 AM sett off in search of the 6 Canoes that is behind. at 7 came to them. pitched the Canoes and embarked. at 9 put Mitchel Oman and his horses acrofs and sett out for manchester House with some dry goods. also James Sanderson, James Oman, and Magnus Annel returned back to the branch with sundry articles of trading goods short at that place. we also embarked and paddled till a half past 6 PM then put up."
Sept. 24
" Monday Wind NW a fresh gale weather cloudy with rain at times. at a half past 5 AM we embarked and paddled till 3 PM then put up. here we found those that went ahead. James Tate and some men out after buffalo but returned without Succefs."
Sept. 25
" Tuesday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze with clear weather. at a half past 5 AM we embarked paddled and tracked at times till 6 PM then put up. in the evening James Tate killed a Bull Buffalo which was but poor meat but very acceptable in necefsity."
Sept. 26
" Wednesday Wind Westerly a stiff gale with clear weather. at 6 AM we proceeded and tracked till 3 PM then came to Isaac Batt. James Spence Sen. and 3 men more waiting for the Canoes. William Rich had his arm unfortunately broke a second time; nineteen days ago by a fall from a Horse. received from Isaac Batt and James Spence 280 lbs of dried Buffalo and red deers meat. which was equally divided among the Canoes."
Sept. 27
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. did not proceed. laid by to pitch and dry our Canoes. Sent Isaac Batt and James Spence a hunting, also several others went along with them all which returned in the Evening with the most part of 3 Buffalo, which will be a sufficence to serve us to Manchester House. In the Evening a Mr Shaw and 6 men in a light Canoe came up to us and put up. he informs me he is in partnership with Mr Mackay and that he has gone down to Montreal to decide some disputes between him and some of the other traders. he also informs me that frobisher and Gregory's Companys are Joined together for 5 Years. he says that Gregory's Company lost above 10,000 £ Sterling the last 2 Years and that their furrs was to be sold for the Benefit of the Creditors."
Sept. 28
" Friday Wind WSW a small Breeze with cloudy warm weather. at a half past 5 AM we embarked paddled and tracked till 6 PM then put up. Sent by James Spence and those with him 20 Bundles of goods for manchester House."
Sept. 29
" Saturday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze with cloudy weather. at 6 AM we embarked. and Paddled 'till 6 PM then put up a little above the fighting river. several tents of Indians on Mr Holmes's plantation which traded a few Skins with me for Liquor."
Sept. 30
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh gale weather cloudy with small rain and snow at times. at 6 AM we embarked. paddled and tracked till 6 PM then put up, last night and this day. Traded 56 Beaver in furrs. also some Shoe Leather for the men."
Oct. 1 1787
" Monday Wind Northerly a stiff Breeze with freezing weather. at 6 AM we embarked and paddled till 6 PM then put up almost perished with cold."
Oct. 2
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday till noon afterwards more milder. at half past 6 AM we embarked. at 2 PM arrived safe at Manchester House. thank god all well. found a middling good stock of dried provisions which has come very dear."
Oct. 3
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a fresh gale weather cloudy with Snow most part of the day. at noon 2 tents of Indians arrived brought a few Summer Beaver and a little Provisions. part of which they traded for Liquor and got drunk. the Beaver now brought is not good but if refused at this time I cannot expect to get either good or bad."
Oct. 4
" Thursday Wind variable with clear weather and much warmer than it has been for some time past. at noon Isacc Batt and those with him arrived and brought all safe. also 2 Indians came with a little moose flesh which they traded for Brandy."
Oct. 5
" Friday Wind Easterly a stiff gale with cloudy weather. the men employed about various Duties."
Oct. 6
" Saturday Wind ENE a fresh gale weather cloudy with Snow and Sleet all day. no working without doors."
Oct. 7
" Sunday Wind as Yesterday. weather Cloudy with Sleet at times. traded with some of the Indians and gave Isaac Batt and James Spence their Supply for the barren ground. and what goods they would take to trade. I am sorry to say that the Tobacco is very bad. I could not get 40 Pounds out of a 60 Pound Role that was fit to be offered to an Indian."
Oct. 8
" Monday Wind Westerly a fresh gale weather cloudy with Snow at intervals. the People employed about various Jobs. fitted out 12 men ready for going to the blood and Pekenow Indians. also one of the latter came for Tobacco which he got and went off again. in the Evening 3 swampy Ground Stone Indians came for Tobacco."
Oct. 9
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Magnes Twatt hewing wood for Carlings to go between the Beams of the House. Gilbert Laughton and 3 men burning birch wood for coals. two men sawing Plank for flooring the rest putting the men acrofs to go to the barren ground. 14 in number. 6 of which are to tent with the Blood Indians and James Gaddy with the rest to go with the Pekenow Indians. have sent David Thompson to endeavour to learn the language. in the Evening one Tent of Pekenow Indians arrived brought a few furrs and some Provisions. the Stone Indians got Tobacco and went away."
Oct. 10
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a small Breeze with cloudy weather. the Carpenter. Sawyers. and Taylor. employed at their respective duties and the rest about various Jobs. traded with the Indians and made them small presents as usual. one of them I rigged and gave him a keg of Brandy and they went away. also sent Robert Davy away with an Indian lad that had arrived last night for Tobacco."
Oct. 11
" Thursday Wind NW a fresh Breeze weather cloudy with snow at times. the men employed as Yesterday. in the evening one tent of Indians pitched away. and two assinee poet Indians from the Southward brought 12 Beaver in furrs."
Oct. 12
" Friday Wind SE a fresh gale with clear weather. the men employed as before. James Tate and one man sent a hunting; the 2 Indians that arrived Yesterday traded and went away. as also did those here before."
Oct. 13
" Saturday Wind Westerly a small Breeze weather part Cloudy part Clear. Gilbert Laughton making Smiths bellows. Magnes Twatt employed in the Carpenter way. 2 men sawing Plank. the taylor at work for the men. and the rest cut firewood. and digged trenches for 4 Canoes. which they buried for the winter. in the evening James Tate returned from hunting brought 3 Horse loads of Buffalo flesh. also 3 Swampy Ground assinee poet Indians arrived on Horse Back. brought 14 Beaver which they traded for Liquor and went off again. Sent George Rofs and Malcolm Grot along with them as they are a sett of deceitfull villians."
Oct. 14
" Sunday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday."
Oct. 15
" Monday little wind variable with fine clear weather. the men employed as on Saturday. at noon one of the Indians that pitched away a few days ago arrived with the flesh and Skins of 6 Beaver which he traded for Liquor and ammunition and went away immediately."
Oct. 16
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a small Breeze weather as Yesterday. the Carpenter. Taylor. and Sawyers employed at their respective duties and the rest finished burying the Canoes. and brought some driftwood in the boat for fewel. James Tate went a hunting last evening and returned this morning with 3 Beaver."
Oct. 17
" Wednesday Wind variable weather as before. Sent Mr Longmoor James Tate and one man a hunting. Magnes Twatt making a Carpenters bench. 2 men Sawing Plank. 6 men bringing driftwood in the boat and the rest employed about various Jobs."
Oct. 18
" Thursday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze first part thick fog latter part Clear weather. Magnes Twatt and 2 men edging plank for the upper floor and the rest employed as Yesterday. in the Evening 2 tents of swampy ground afsinee poet Indians and one Southward Indian arrived. also the 3 men that went away on the 10th and 13th Instants. the Southward Indian has brought 6 Roles of Birch rind according to promise."
Oct. 19
" Friday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with fine warm weather. Magnes Twatt and 2 men laying the upper floor. taylor making Cloathing for Indians. myself trading a few furrs from the Indians. indeed they are very hard to deal with. partly owing to their being in want of every thing and but able to purchase little. however I have given them every encouragement I could. as also Iron work upon Credit. the rest employed about various duties. in the evening Mr Longmoor returned from Hunting brought 3 Horse loads of meat. James Tate has stayed to take care of the buffalo that he has killed."
Oct. 20
" Saturday Wind variable with cloudy warm weather. sent 5 men with Horses to bring home meat. Gilbert Laughton repairing a trading gun. the rest laying the upper floor. and cut firewood. at noon Mr Pangman arrived in a light Canoe. by this I learn he has left 11 Canoes on the road under the care of Mr Humfreville, 8 of which is for this Island and the rest is to stay at the fighting River. also 7 more for the South Branch."
Oct. 21
" Sunday Wind Westerly a fresh Breeze with cloudy weather. the Indians went away. and in the afternoon Mr Longmoor and those that went for flesh returned. brought the flesh of 3 Bull Buffalo. rained a little in the night. and Mr Longmoor informs me they had a great fall of Snow."
Oct. 22
" Monday Wind WNW a small Breeze with clear fine weather. William Rich still unfit for duty. the taylor at work for the men. the Carpenters and Sawyers as before and the rest employed about various Jobbs. fitted out 2 Indian hunters and sent them away to hunt for the House."
Oct. 23
" Tuesday Wind variable weather as Yesterday. the men employed as before. in the evening 1 Sufsew Indian arrived for Tobacco."
Oct. 24
" Wednesday Wind variable weather cloudy with rain and Sleet at Intervals. Sent James Tate and Robert Davy a hunting on the South Side of the River but returned in the evening without Succefs. the rest employed as before. this day I opened 3 Roles of Brazile Tobacco before I could get any that was fit to give to the Indian that arrived Yesterday; Indeed I am sorry to say our Tobacco is very bad this year as well as last. which I am afraid will hurt trade much as the Canadians has got as good Brazile Tobacco as ever came from the Braziles.
Oct. 25
" Thursday Wind Westerly a strong gale weather part Cloudy part Clear. fitted out James Tate and 3 men and sent them away to the Sufsew Indians. the rest cut firewood and did other necefsary duties."
Oct. 26
" Friday little wind variable with clear fine weather. the Sawyers Carpenter and Taylor employed at their respective duties. Gilbert Laughton repairing 3 old Hatchets and the rest cut firewood. I am greatly distrefsed for want of Hatchets for the men as also for trade."
Oct. 27
" Saturday Wind Northerly a small Breeze with clear weather. the men employed as Yesterday. in the Evening one of the Hunters came home for men to fetch meat. some Ice driving in the River."
Oct. 28
" Sunday little Wind Southerly with cloudy mild weather. some snow fell in the night and much Ice driving in the River to day."
Oct. 29
" Monday Wind Westerly a small Breeze weather as Yesterday. Sent Mr Longmoor and 3 men with horses to bring home meat. the Carpenter Taylor and Sawyers employed in their respective duties. also Gilbert Laughton employed in the Smiths way. John Flett very bad of the Yellow Jaundice and the rest cut firewood. no Ice driving in the river to day."
Oct. 30
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze weather part Cloudy part Clear. Sent Magnes Twatt to look out for Stuff for Canoe work the rest employed as Yesterday. in the evening Mr Longmoor and those with him returned brought the most part of 4 Red Deer."
Oct. 31
" Wednesday little wind variable with fine clear weather. Gilbert Laughton and one man repairing old hatchets for cutting firewood. the rest employed about various duties."
Nov. 1 1787
" Thursday little wind variable with cloudy weather. the Taylor making boys Coats for trade. Magnes Twatt sharpening the Crofs Cut Saws. 2 men sawing Plank and the rest cut firewood."
Nov. 2
" Friday Wind NW a fresh Breeze weather Cloudy and inclinable to Snow. Gilbert Laughton making awl Blades. the rest employed as Yesterday."
Nov. 3
" Saturday Wind Southerly a small Breeze weather cloudy 'till noon afterwards Clear and very warm. Magnes Twatt repairing the guard room door. the Blacksmith making awl Blades the rest cut firewood."
Nov. 4
" Sunday Wind ENE a small breeze with clear fine weather."
Nov. 5
" Monday Wind Southerly weather as Yesterday. sent Mr Longmoor and Robert Davy a hunting. Carpenter, Blacksmith, Taylor, and Sawyers at their respective duties. William Rich still unfit for any kind of work. John Flatt bad of the Jaundice for some time past. the rest cut firewood."
Nov. 6
" Tuesday Wind variable from South to WNW a strong gale with clear weather. the men employed as Yesterday. some Ice driving in the River."
Nov. 7
" Wednesday Wind NW a small Breeze weather part cloudy part clear. the men employed as before."
Nov. 8
" Thursday Wind as Yesterday and the weather much colder than it has been for some time past. Magnes Twatt making a door. the taylor making Cloathing for the men. 2 men sawing Plank the rest collecting driftwood for fewel. in the evening Mr Longmoor and Robert Davy came home brought the flesh of one Cow Buffalo."
Nov. 9
" Friday Wind and Weather much the same as before. 2 men looking after 2 stray Horses. the rest employed as before."
Nov. 10
" Saturday Wind Easterly a stiff breeze weather cloudy with snow. at noon Sent 2 men to the Hunters Tent for meat, also 2 more to stay there. Taylor making Cloathing for trade the rest cut firewood and did other odd Jobbs about the House."
Nov. 11
" Sunday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear mild weather. at noon the men came home that went for meat Yesterday. brought the flesh of one bull buffalo and the account of more being killed. in the evening 1 Tent of Indians arrived brought 7 Beaver in furrs and some meat. which they traded for Liquor."
Nov. 12
" Monday Wind WNW a fresh gale weather clear and thawed much. Sent Mr Longmoor, George Rofs, Robert Davy and Malcolm Grott to look after some Southward Indians and a part of the Sufsews. and have sent near 2 hundred Beaver in trading goods. Our Tobacco I am ashamed either to send any out or offer it to Indians at the House. I have opened 8 Rolls and have not found 1 Pipe of good Tobacco in the whole. this will hurt trade much. the Canadians has, as good Brazile Tobacco, as ever came from the Braziles, which makes our Tobacco to be no more looked upon than rotten turnips. there is several other articles such as Orrice Lace, Gartering, Knives, Shirts, Hatchets having deviated from the former Samples. Hats. Powder horns. and Shoes of all Sorts. it is far against my inclination to make any Complaint whatever but when we are so much imposed upon with bad goods I think it is a duty I owe to my employers to inform them thereof. it is an easy matter for me to let bad goods lay in the warehouse but it is not so easy for your Honors to pay Servants wages and to bear all other expences: to have those goods conveyed 12 or 1300 Miles, and then to be laughed at when such goods are offered to sale. this grieves me much. and I am sorry the Canadians should so far outshine us in many articles. the men employed about various duties. myself working with bad Tobacco. rubbing it over with Sugar and Tobacco boiled in water and Salt. If I had any better would have burned every Inch of it."
Nov. 13
" Tuesday Wind Westerly a stiff Breeze with cloudy weather. Sent 3 men to fetch flesh from the Hunters Tent. 2 men looking for a stray horse which they brought. the rest employed about various Jobbs."
Nov. 14
" Wednesday Wind WNW a fresh gale with clear weather. at noon the men returned that went for flesh yesterday. brought 4 Horse loads. the taylor making Cloathing for Trade. Carpenter and 2 more laying a part of the upper floor. and the rest cut firewood."
Nov. 15
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. sent 3 men to bring home meat, the rest employed about various duties."
Nov. 16
" Friday Wind Northerly a small Breeze with clear weather. Gilbert Laughton making firesteels out of worn out files. Magnes Twatt and one man laying part of the upper floor. the rest carrying in firewood. at noon those came home that went for meat yesterday brought 3 Horse loads; in the Evening the Indians pitched away that arrived on Sunday. I have been obliged to give them a little Credit."
Nov. 17
" Saturday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear sharp weather. 6 men moving the dryed meat out of the House to the out office. the rest employed about various duties."
Nov. 18
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday."
Nov. 19
" Monday little wind variable with clear sharp weather. Sent 2 men to fetch home meat. Gilbert Laughton making firesteels. the rest employed about various duties."
Nov. 20
" Tuesday Wind ENE a stiff gale with snow and drift. the Taylor making Coats for Leaders the rest doing necefsary Jobbs for themselves."
Nov. 21
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a stiff Breeze with cold drifting weather. the men employed in doors. and cut firewood. in the afternoon the 2 men came home that went for meat on Monday brought 2 Horse loads of Cows flesh. 7 tents of fall Indians arrived at Mr Pangmans House but not being well satisfied with their Treatment they want to trade here. but they locked them up within their Gates so that they could not get out without being overhauled."
Nov. 22
" Thursday Wind variable between North and West fresh Breezes with clear sharp weather. Sent 2 men to fetch meat. 2 men repairing old Sleds. 3 men edging Plank. and the rest cut firewood."
Nov. 23
" Friday Wind NW a small Breeze weather as Yesterday. 3 men laying the upper floor. the taylor making Cloathing for trade. Gilbert Laughton repairing a gun lock, the rest cut firewood, in the evening those returned that went for meat brought 4 Horse loads. also James Tate and those with him came home from the Sufsew Indians and have been 7 days on their journey. they have brought 95 made beaver in different Sorts of furrs. their was but few furrs amongst them and they had no good will to part with them. this, and their demanding the goods for nothing was the reason's for the men's returning sooner than they otherwise would have done."
Nov. 24
" Saturday little wind Northerly with very sharp weather. the men cut firewood and finished laying the upper floor. the fall Indians brought a few Wolves from Mr Pangmans House; which they traded for a Gun, Ammunition and Tobacco."
Nov. 25
" Sunday Wind as Yesterday and blowed fresh with very cold weather."
Nov. 26
" Monday Wind variable with cloudy mild weather. Sent 2 men with dogs and Sleds to bring home meat which returned in the evening with 1 Red Deer. 2 men looking out for birch to make Sleds but did not find any fitt for the purpose. Magnes Twatt taking down the Partitions and putting them up closer. it being open and very ill done before. the taylor making cloathing for Leaders, the rest collecting firewood and did odd Jobbs within doors."
Nov. 27
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with cloudy warm weather. 2 men Sawing boards. Carpenter and Taylor as before, and the rest cut firewood."
Nov. 28
" Wednesday Wind variable with clear fine weather. Sent James Tate, Mitchel Oman and 2 young hands to tent in the Plains to kill Buffalo. the Blacksmith cleaning the Muskets, and the rest employed as Yesterday."
Nov. 29
" Thursday Wind variable from South to West and blowed a stiff gale with a great thaw. the People employed a before. Sent 2 men off last evening to bring James Tate and those with him home by reason of that great villain Pangman sending off men with rum to debauch some Indians that Mr Shaw and myself gave Credit to on our arrival here. in the evening James Tate and the other men returned. also 2 Indians came for Tobacco."
Nov. 30
" Friday little wind variable with cloudy mild weather. Sent 6 men with Horses and dogs to bring home meat from the Hunting Tent and the rest cut firewood. Except James Tate. Mitchel Oman and 2 men more. which I sent to the Indians with a little liquor and Tobacco to be given them as encouragement for them to bring their furrs in here to trade. this is a pernicious Custon, and a very expensive one, but I am obliged to do as my Neighbours do or else be laughed at. the 2 Indians that arrived Yesterday also went away."
Dec. 1 1787
" Saturday Wind Westerly a small breeze with clear weather. the men cut firewood and cleaned the yard. in the evening those came home that went for meat Yesterday. brought the most part of 3 Buffalo."
Dec. 2
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday."
Dec. 3
" Monday Wind Easterly a small breeze weather part Cloudy part Clear. sent two men with Horses to bring home meat. 2 men sawing boards. the Carpenter and Taylor employed in their way. William Rich and John Flat much better, but still unfitt for duty except trifling Jobs within doors. the rest bringing in firewood."
Dec. 4
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a fresh breeze with cloudy weather. the men employed as Yesterday. late in the evening those came home that went for meat brought the most part of 3 Buffalo."
Dec. 5
" Wednesday Wind NE weather much the same as Yesterday. sent 2 men with dogs to bring home meat. Gilbert Laughton making kegs and the rest employed as before."
Dec. 6
" Thursday little wind in the NE Quarter with thick cloudy weather and much rime on the trees. the men employed as Yesterday. in the evening those came home that went for meat brought 4 Sled loads. also James Oman, James Morrowick and George Short arrived from the South Branch, with agreeable news of all being well there thank god; but short in several Articles of Trading goods which I am not able to Supply."
Dec. 7
" Friday Wind Easterly a small Breeze clear weather with sharp air. sent 3 with Horses to bring home meat. and the rest employed as before."
Dec. 8
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday weather cloudy and inclinable to Snow. 2 men sawing stuff for a sled to haul in firewood; Gilbert Laughton repairing a gun, Magnes Twatt puting up a Cabin for the men. and the rest cut firewood and Cleared the yard."
Dec. 9
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh Breeze weather cloudy with a little Snow at times."
Dec. 10
" Monday Wind Easterly a small Breeze with thick rimy weather. Sent 3 men with dogs to bring home meat. Gilbert Laughton making kegs and the rest employed about various Jobs. late in the evening James Tate came home and informs me that Mr Pangman sent 5 men wih 5 kegs of rum but no other sort of Goods except Tobacco and have traded the most part of what the Indians had. the badnefs of our Tobacco and the goodnefs of the Canadians will prove very Detrimental to your honors trade."
Dec. 11
" Tuesday Wind variable weather cloudy with keen sharp air. the men cut firewood and did other necefsary Jobs within doors. in the evening those came home that went for meat. brought little or nothing. the wolves having eat what they went for."
Dec. 12
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Carpenter and Taylor employed in their way. Gilbert Laughton repairing a gun. and the rest fell and brought in firewood. at noon Mitchel Oman and the other 2 men came home brought 100 Skins of Whole and half Parchment Beaver. Part of which belongs to 2 Indians that accompanyed them; the rest went to Mr Pangmans, which he has bought at a dear rate. with rum and other goods."
Dec. 13
" Thursday Wind SE a small Breeze with clear sharp weather. Sent two men to the Hunting Tent. with 2 horses to be kept there the rest employed as before."
Dec. 14
" Friday little wind Easterly weather as Yesterday. the men cut firewood and did necefsary duties within doors. traded with the Indians and made them presents as usual, as encouragement for them to bring their Spring hunt."
Dec. 15
" Saturday Wind ENE a fresh Breeze weather part Cloudy part Clear. Magnes Twatt cutting out two Windows on the East side of the House, to make more light. Gilbert Laughton making kegs. and the rest cut firewood. at 5 PM James Oman and Thomas Hay returned from the hunting tent brought 2 Quick hatches and 1 Wolf, but no account of any thing else being killed."
Dec. 16
" Sunday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear weather."
Dec. 17
" Monday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear weather. William Rich still unable for duty and John Flat far from being reinstated to his former state of health. Gilbert Laughton repairing old kegs the taylor making Cloathing for the men. Magnes Twatt employed in the Carpenter way and the rest bringing in firewood."
Dec. 18
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. 2 men looking for 2 stray Horses but returned without finding them the rest employed as Yesterday. in the evening 2 men came home from the Hunting Tent brought 3 Horse loads of flesh."
Dec. 19
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as before. the men employed as Yesterday. Sent James Tate, James Borwick, Andrew Corrigal and Magnes Tate to tent abroad and hunt Buffalo or any other animals they can catch. the 2 men also returned back to the Hunters Tent."
Dec. 20
" Thursday little wind variable with clear sharp air. the men employed about various Jobs. myself with those from the South Branch packed up 2 Bales of trading goods to be sent to that place."
Dec. 21
" Friday little wind Southerly with clear sharp weather. 2 men at the Pitsaw and the rest cut firewood in the Evening our Hunter came home for men to fetch meat."
Dec. 22
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday a small Breeze with cloudy mild weather. Sent 2 men with 2 Horses to fetch meat. the rest cut firewood and "
Dec. 23
" Sunday Wind variable with clear fine weather. in the evening Andrew Corrigal came home for men to fetch meat. he informs me James Tate has killed 7 Buffalo."
Dec. 24
" Monday Wind SE a fresh Breeze with clear weather. the taylor at work for the men. Gilbert Laughton making kegs. Magnes Twatt employed in the Carpenter way. and the rest cut firewood."
Dec. 25
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. it being Christmas day the men did nothing."
Dec. 26
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a small Breeze with cloudy thick weather. the men diverting themselves."
Dec. 27
" Thursday little wind variable weather cloudy and so warm that the snow melted on the Houses. Sent 6 men with Horses and Dogs to fetch meat from James Tate. also those from the South Branch returned back. and have sent by them the following articles of Trading Goods. Cloth of Sorts 63 1/2 Yards, Brandy English Gallons 23 1/8, Bayonets flat 12, files large flat 12, Knives of Sorts 60, Combs Horn 4, Shirts Cotton 4, Check Strapt 1?, Pistols 8. I would have sent more Goods to that Place but finding out of a smaller Quantity sent there last Year there was a remains left. Magnes Twatt stocking a Gun that was broke in the pafsage up. and the rest cut a little firewood."
Dec. 28
" Friday Wind NW a stiff gale weather part Cloudy part Clear with a little Snow at Intervals. the men cut firewood; in the Evening James Rushland came home from the hunting tent for men to fetch flesh."
Dec. 29
" Saturday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze weather as Yesterday. the men cut firewood and cleaned the Yard, in the evening those that went for meat came home brought the most part of 5 Cow Buffalo."
Dec. 30
" Sunday Wind Northerly a stiff gale weather part Cloudy part clear."
Dec. 31
" Monday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with cloudy mild weather. Sent 6 men with dogs to fetch meat from the hunters Tent. John Flatt out of order by a relapse of his former disorder. William Rich is now able thank god to fetch meat with the other men and the rest cut firewood."
Jan. 1 1788
" Tuesday Wind variable with cloudy mild weather. it being New Years day did not employ the men to do any duty."
Jan. 2
" Wednesday Wind ENE a small Breeze weather Cloudy with a little Snow. the People cut firewood. at noon those returned that went for meat brought 2 Buffalo and brings the account of more being killed."
Jan. 3
" Thursday little wind Northerly first part Cloudy latter part Clear sharp weather. the People employed about various duties. late in the Evening Andrew Corrigel came home to stay at the house."
Jan. 4
" Friday Wind variable with cloudy sharp weather. sent 4 men with dogs to fetch meat from the Hunting Tent. John Flatt unfit for duty and the rest cut firewood."
Jan. 5
" Saturday Wind Northerly a small Breeze weather clear and very sharp. John Flatt still continues unfit for duty. the rest cut firewood. in the evening 1 Young Indian arrived brought 20 made Beaver in furrs and the flesh of 6 Beaver. also Mr Longmoor and those with him arrived and have brought part of the goods back untraded. and have had much trouble with what he has traded. by reason that the Indians wanted all for nothing from him: as they did from James Tate. which neither would agree to. indeed it has come to such now that goods is lookt upon to be of very little value. the furrs he has brought Consists of Beaver Wolves, foxes and a few Martens. all of which amounts to 189 Made Beaver."
Jan. 6
" Sunday Wind Northerly weather as Yesterday. the Indian that came last evening traded what he brought and went away. and late in the evening 3 Sufsew Indians came for Tobacco, Brandy, Powder, Paint, Knives, and looking Glafses, all for nothing. of which they got Tobacco Powder and Paint."
Jan. 7
" Monday Wind NW a fresh gale with a little Snow 'till noon afterwards clear sharp weather. the men employed repairing Sleds and Cutting firewood. at noon the Sufsew Indians arrived and a part came to each house but poorly gooded. and very bad to deal with. and soon wants the goods for nothing. late in the evening 3 Young Indian lads arrived from the northward brought 14 made Beaver which they traded for Iron work Tobacco and Brandy."
Jan. 8
" Tuesday Wind as Yesterday with clear sharp weather. Sent 4 men with dogs to bring home flesh from the Hunting Tent. Magnes Twatt and Gilbert Laughton making a sled to haul in firewood and the rest cutting firewood. the young Indian lads that came last evening went away early this morning."
Jan. 9
" Wednesday Wind WNW a fresh Breeze with clear sharp weather. the men employed as Yesterday. made several Presents to the Indians and they went away in the evening. at noon I had some words with Mr Shaw for trading a bad Skin from an Indian that came to me, which I had refused, this brought on a great dispute between him and me, which ended in having the Skin brought, and cut to peices before the Indian, so that it should not be in his Power to defraud the said Indian from me by giving encouragement for bad Skins."
Jan. 10
" Thursday Wind variable with cloudy mild weather. the men hauling in firewood. at noon those returned that went for flesh on Tuesday brought 8 Sled loads. and informs me of some more being killed."
Jan. 11
" Friday Wind NW a stiff gale with clear weather and very sharp. the men cut firewood and did trifling duties within doors."
Jan. 12
" Saturday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Sent 4 with dogs to bring home meat from the hunting tent. Gilbert Laughton making latches for the doors. and the rest employed hauling in firewood."
Jan. 13
" Sunday Wind variable in the North Quarter with severe sharp weather."
Jan. 14
" Monday Wind amd Weather as Yesterday. Gilbert Laughton repairing broken hatchets; the taylor making Cloathing for the men: John Flatt still unfit for duty. the rest hauled in firewood. at noon those returned that went for meat on Saturday. brought 2 Buffalo."
Jan. 15
" Tuesday Wind variable in the South Quarter clear and very sharp weather. the men employed as Yesterday. have much ado to keep from freezing within doors this day. I had some agreeable account of James Gaddy and seven men more sent out to the Pekenow Indians last Autumn. this I received from a Canadian that parted from them the 27th of December. by what I can learn he has come to fetch Brandy and Tobacco but the agreement that is made deprives him from returning Which I hope will be in my favour."
Jan. 16
" Wednesday Wind variable from South to NW a small Breeze with a Continuance of sharp weather. Sent a man to fetch meat from the Hunting tent; the rest employed as before. at 7 in the evening John Sebbeston, James Davey, and Hugh Bakey arrived with a packet from Cumberland House. as also from the South Branch. having been obliged to come that way for a supply of provisions they brought up 100 and odd made Beaver in Sundry Articles of trading goods including that left at the South branch house."
Jan. 17
" Thursday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze with cloudy sharp weather. Gilbert Laughton cleaning trading Guns. the Carpenter and taylor employed indoors. and the rest hauling firewood. in the evening those returned that went for flesh yesterday brought 2 Cow buffalo. also an Indian boy and woman arrived with a few furrs to trade."
Jan. 18
" Friday Wind ENE a fresh Breeze weather part cloudy part Clear and much milder than it has been for sometime past. Sent 4 men to bring home meat from the hunting tent. the taylor making cloathing for the men. the rest cut firewood. at noon 4 Southward Indians came for Tobacco. also James Tate, Mitchel Oman, and James Borwick came home brought the most part of 4 Cow buffalo traded with the 2 Indians that came last night and made them small Presents. and sent several articles by them to others."
Jan. 19
" Saturday little wind variable with clear fine weather. the men employed hauling in firewood and cleaned the yard. at noon those came home that went for meat Yesterday and have brought all away."
Jan. 20
" Sunday Wind Northerly a fresh breeze Cloudy weather with light Showers of Snow. gave the Indians Tobacco and they went away."
Jan. 21
" Monday Wind NW a fresh Breeze with clear sharp weather. James Tate, Mitchel Oman, James Borwick and John Sebbeston went back to their tent. John Flatt still unfitt for duty. the Taylor making Cloathing for the men and the rest employed hauling in firewood."
Jan. 22
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. Magnes Twatt, Gilbert Laughton, and one man more brought home wood for sleds. the rest hauling in firewood. at noon one of the hunters came home for men to fetch meat he also informed me that the other hunter desired him, to tell me, to go to one of the other houses for some Tobacco, and send it to him; as he could not smoak that he had from me it being very bad; this gave me some Concern as it was told before an Indian from one of the other Houses."
Jan. 23
" Wednesday Wind SE a small beeze weather as Yesterday. Sent 7 men with horses and dogs to fetch meat from the hunting tent and returned in the evening the rest employed about various Jobs. in the Evening James Borwick came home to stay at the house."
Jan. 24
" Thursday Wind Southerly a small breeze with cloudy weather. Magnes Twatt and Gilbert Laughton sawing stuff for Sleds the rest hauling firewood and did odd Jobbs indoors. at noon the hunter came home with a gun to be repaired which he had the lend of from me."
Jan. 25
" Friday Wind variable with cloudy mild weather. Gilbert Laughton making a few nails for Sleds. Magnes Twatt making sleds. 2 men brought home some Birch for necefsary uses. the taylor making Cloathing for Leaders and the rest employed hauling firewood."
Jan. 26
" Saturday Wind Southerly a small breeze with clear warm weather and thawed much. Gilbert Laughton repairing a broken gun. Magnes Twatt and 1 man bringing birch for Sleds and other uses and the rest employed as Yesterday. towards Evening 1 Young Indian arrived Carrying a few Beaver Skins on his back."
Jan. 27
" Sunday Wind Westerly a strong gale weather part cloudy part Clear and thawed much."
Jan. 28
" Monday Wind variable from North to East with fine mild weather. Gilbert Laughton repairing a trading gun that I sent out with Mr Longmoor. the cock of which broke in two. Magnes Twatt and 1 man sawing stuff for 2 Chairs. taylor making coats for Leaders. John Flatt still unable to do duty. Sent 5 men with dogs to bring home meat from the hunting tent. and the rest employed hauling home firewood. and doing trifling duties within doors."
Jan. 29
" Tuesday Wind variable all round and towards Evening blowed hard with showers of Sleet and hail. the men employed as Yesterday. in the Evening those came home that went for flesh Yesterday brought the flesh of 3 Buffalo."
Jan. 30
" Wednesday little wind variable with clear mild weather. sent men with dogs to bring home the meat that remained at the hunting tent. Taylor making Cloathing for trade. the rest hauling in firewood and looking after traps. 2 foxes to day."
Jan. 31
" Thursday Wind Westerly a stiff breeze with Cloudy warm weather. had a smart shower of rain in the night. the men employed as before. in the Evening those came home that went for meat Yesterday brought 1 Buffalo and informs me of more being killed. at noon one blood Indian man and family arrived but very poorly gooded."
Feb. 1 1788
" Friday Wind Northerly a fresh gale weather cloudy with a little snow in the morning afterwards clear. sent 4 men with dogs to fetch meat. Gilbert Laughton repairing the Indian's Guns that arrived yesterday. the Taylor at work for the men. the rest making Parchment Bags for Provisions and sewing sleds. traded with the Indians and gave the old man all the encouragement I pofsibly could, it being the first time he ever was here. he has brought 38 Wolves, 4 Beaver, 6 ordinary foxes and 120 lbs of fat Buffalo flesh. late in the Evening 3 fall Indians came for Tobacco."
Feb. 2
" Saturday Wind as Yesterday a fresh Breeze weather for the most part Cloudy with a little Snow. Gilbert Laughton repairing one of the trading guns by making a new main Spring for it. the other one being so weak that it would not strike up the Hammer. the rest employed about various Jobbs. at noon those returned that went for flesh brought 3 buffalo. In the Evening 2 Indian men a woman and 2 boys arrived brought a few furrs and some provisions to trade. the fall Indians also went away."
Feb. 3
" Sunday Wind NW a stiff breeze with clear sharp weather. the Indians traded and got all ready for going away to morrow: they have brought 62 made Beaver in good furrs which is Collected from 4 Indians."
Feb. 4
" Monday Wind Easterly a stiff Breeze weather cloudy with Snow towards Evening. Magnes Twatt making sleds the taylor at work for the men. Gilbert Laughton finished repairing the Gun have made every thing new of the Lock except the plate and Hammer. John Flatt still badly. James Davy bad for a sore back. the rest hauling in firewood. at noon the Indians went away and James Tate and John Sebbeston came home. they have had but poor luck in hunting."
Feb. 5
" Tuesday Wind NW a fresh gale with cold cloudy weather. the men employed as Yesterday."
Feb. 6
" Wednesday Wind variable with clear sharp weather. Sent 2 men with dogs to bring home meat from James Tate and the rest employed about various duties."
Feb. 7
" Thursday Wind SE a fresh breeze weather part Cloudy part Clear. Sent 2 men with dogs to bring home meat from the Hunting Tent. the rest hauling in firewood & doing necefsary duties within doors. in the Evening those came home that went for meat Yesterday brought 4 Sled loads. also a few wolves that James Tate has killed with sett Guns."
Feb. 8
" Friday Wind SE a small breeze with clear fine weather. Gilbert Laughton cleaning trading guns. Magnes Twatt stocking a gun that was broke on the pafsage up. 1 man sewing parchment bags for Provisions. the taylor Lacing hats. which is miserable stuff. and the rest hauling in firewood. in the Evening those came home that went for meat Yesterday brought 5 Sled loads."
Feb. 9
" Saturday little wind variable with clear mild weather. Sent Mr Longmoor down to the fighting river to get a horse that an Indian stole in the Summer. Magnes Twatt stocking a broken gun. Gilbert Laughton cleaning Guns several of which has broken Springs and is not fitt to be offered to sale untill repair'd; the rest employed at sundry duties. in the afternoon those came home that went for meat brought 1 Cow buffalo and a half."
Feb. 10
" Sunday Wind Southerly weather as Yesterday. at noon James Gaddy, James Gray, Nicholas Allen and Peter Brown arrived from the Pekenow Indians they have brought [blank space] and have been on their Journey hither since the 29th December. James Gaddy informs me that they have been 4 days Journey farther off this year than he and Robert Davy were last winter."
Feb. 11
" Monday Wind SE a small Breeze with cloudy warm weather. sent 2 men with dogs to bring home meat from the Hunters Tent. Gilbert Laughton cleaning trading Guns. Magnes Twatt employed in the Carpenter way. 2 men hauling home birchwood for necefsary uses and the rest employed hauling in firewood and sewing sleds. in the evening 2 Indians with their women arrived with furrs to trade. also 2 more went to Mr Pangman. those from Canada gives so much Liquor to the Indians that comes to them for nothing. and makes those that comes here very troublesome. and induces me to give more liquor than I otherwise would have done."
Feb. 12
" Tuesday Wind variable from South to WNW a stiff gale with clear weather. the men employed about various duties. at noon those came home that went for meat Yesterday brought 4 Sled Loads the Indians still drunk."
Feb. 13
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a small Breeze weather part Cloudy. Sent 3 men with dogs to bring home meat from the hunting tent. Gilbert Laughton repairing a trading gun. Magnes Twatt stocking a broken gun and the rest employed hauling in firewood and doing odd Jobbs in doors. traded with the Indians and made them presents as usual. they have brought upwards of 200 made Beaver in sundry sorts of furrs. they also wanted a little Medicine but had nothing to put it into not having received any more than 6 Phials from Mr Robinson, and they was not full; so that I must either give the whole or else none. I am of opinion that if there was an active man of a surgeon here it would contribute something towards trade and be very serviceable for the men, Indians &c."
Feb. 14
" Thursday Wind SW a small Breeze with clear warm weather. the men employed as Yesterday. at noon those came home that went for meat Yesterday brought 6 Sled loads also 3 tents of fall Indians arrived but have brought very little with them."
Feb. 15
" Friday Wind NW a fresh breeze weather cloudy and inclinable to Snow. Gilbert Laughton making a guard for one of the trading guns, the rest employed hauling wood and attending the House to prevent the Indians from pilfering as they are a theivish sett of People. traded with the fall Indians and made the leader a present of some small articles. they have brought no more than 18 Wolves, 18 Foxes, 600 lbs of Sundry Sorts of Provisions."
Feb. 16
" Saturday Wind NE a fresh gale weather cloudy with snow most part of the day. the men employed melting down fat and carrying Snow out of the Yard. at noon the fall Indians went away."
Feb. 17
" Sunday Wind as Yesterday weather for the most part Cloudy with a drizzling Snow. late in the Evening one of the hunters came for men to fetch meat."
Feb. 18
" Monday Wind Northerly a small Breeze with clear sharp weather. Sent 4 men with dogs to fetch flesh. the taylor making boys Coats for trade. John Flatt much the same as he has been for these 2 months past. Gilbert Laughton and Magnes Twatt employed about necefsary duties within doors and the rest cut firewood."
Feb. 19
" Tuesday Wind ENE weather as Yesterday. the men employed as before. 3 Swampy ground afsinepoet Indian women arrived brought 44 made Beaver in good furrs which they traded and went away immediately. at noon those returned that went for flesh brought 8 Sled Loads. also the hunter came home."
Feb. 20
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a stiff gale with cloudy cold weather. Sent 4 men with dogs to bring home meat. taylor making coats for Leaders we are very ill supplyed with lace having none but narrow stuff and that a very bad Quality which makes our Coats look very shabby to what our Neighbours do. Gilbert Laughton making gun worms out of Brafs wire. Magnes Twatt making Chairs and the rest cut firewood. fitted out the hunters and sent them away to hunt Beaver as I have got a middling stock of green meat."
Feb. 21
" Thursday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Sent 4 men with 6 Horses to bring home Coals for the blacksmith; the rest employed about various Jobbs."
Feb. 22
" Friday Wind NW a fresh Breeze with clear sharp weather. Magnes Twatt employed in the Carpenter way. Gilbert Laughton repairing a Trading Gun and the rest hauling in firewood. in the Evening those came home that went for meat brought 2 poor moose as also one Blood Indian arrived for Tobacco."
Feb. 23
" Saturday Wind Westerly a small Breeze with clear sharp weather. Gilbert Laughton making the brandy kegs smaller by cutting off both the ends and putting in the heads afresh. by so doing I save 1/2 a Gallon in every keg. the rest employed as Yesterday and cleaned the yard. in the Evening gave the blood Indian Tobacco and he went away early this morning."
Feb. 24
" Sunday Wind WNW a fresh breeze with clear sharp weather. at noon 1 Blood Indian man arrived on Horseback and has come from the same man that got Tobacco Yesterday he came for Liquor but I did not give any untill they arrive."
Feb. 25
" Monday little wind variable with clear sharp weather till noon afterwards more milder. the men employed about various duties. in the morning 1 Tent of Blood Indians arrived with furrs to trade. also James Spence and 1 Young man arrived from another band of the above mentioned Indians for Tobacco for 12 men also Powder and Vermilion."
Feb. 26
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a fresh gale weather cloudy with a drizzling Snow. the men employed as before. James Spence and the young Indian returned back to meet the Indians with 12 fathoms of Tobacco, 6 lbs of Powder, Vermillion 1/4 lb."
Feb. 27
" Wednesday Wind as Yesterday weather very cold with drift. the men employed cutting firewood and hauling it in. in the evening 3 Tents of Blood Indians arrived also Isaac Batt, James Spence, Will. Flatt, William Corrigel, James Johnson, and Alexander Corrigel and have brought about 200 Skins. I have rigged 7 of those that arrived to day and 1 that came on Monday. in all eight. from which I suppose I shall not be able to raise 500 Skins."
Feb. 28
" Thursday Wind NE weather much the same as before. Gilbert Laughton repairing Indians Guns. the rest attending the House to Prevent the Natives from pilfering. traded with part of the Indians and Presented them Presents as usual."
Feb. 29
" Friday Wind WSW a small Breeze with cloudy weather. Gilbert Laughton employed as yesterday and the rest attending the house and hauling firewood. finished with the Indians and all ready for going away. these have brought 550 Wolves, 15 Beaver, 10 Foxes and 400 lbs of Provisions."
Mar. 1 1788
" Saturday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. the men employed cleaning the Yard and hauling firewood,. at noon the blood Indians went away."
Mar. 2
" Sunday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze with clear weather."
Mar. 3
" Monday Wind SE a fresh Breeze weather clear with sharp air till noon afterwards more milder. Sent 3 men to bring home Birch for Wedges for the Prefs. 2 men hewing the same. Gilbert Laughton making kegs. Magnes Twatt employed in the Carpenter way. taylor making Cloathing for the men. John Flatt still unfitt for duty. the rest hauling home firewood."
Mar. 4
" Tuesday little wind variable with clear fine weather. the men employed as Yesterday."
Mar. 5
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a small Breeze with clear mild weather. two men sawing stuff to repair the boat and the rest employed in various duties. gave a supply of Ammunition to Isaac Batt, James Spence, and 4 men more and sent them away to hunt Buffalo."
Mar. 6
" Thursday Wind Southerly weather as Yesterday and thawed much under the lee. the taylor making Cloathing for trade. Magnes Twatt employed the Carpenter way. Gilbert Laughton making kegs. the rest getting firewood and Cleaning the snow of the Canoes."
Mar. 7
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. 2 men sawing stuff for flooring. Gilbert Laughton repairing a broken auger. 1 man making Wedges for the Prefs.Taylor making Cloathing for trade and the rest made 1086 lbs of Pemican for the Journey down. in the evening James Tate and Mitchell Oman came home with some Buffalo Meat."
Mar. 8
" Saturday Wind Northerly a fresh Beeze weather cloudy with a drizling Snow most part of the day. Gilbert Laughton making new main Springs for some of the trading guns many of them being good for nothing and would lay upon hands were they not repaired. the rest cleaning the yard and doing necefsary Jobbs within doors. James Tate and Mitchell Oman went back to their tent."
Mar. 9
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh Breeze weather cloudy with snow most part of the day."
Mar. 10
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. Gilbert Laughton still repairing Guns. taylor making boys Coats for trade. John Flatt still unable to do duty. the rest employed at necefsary Jobbs within doors; in the evening 3 Swampy ground afsinepoet Indians arrived brought 32 made Beaver which they traded for Brandy Tobacco and Knives."
Mar. 11
" Tuesday Wind NE a fresh Breeze weather as before. the men employed as Yesterday."
Mar. 12
" Wednesday Wind as before weather cloudy with now till noon afterwards clear. Gilbert Laughton making firesteels out of worn out files the rest employed about various duties. at noon 2 tents of Southward Indians arrived with furrs to trade gave them some Liquor and they got drunk."
Mar. 13
" Thursday little wind variable with clear fine weather. Gilbert Laughton repairing an Indian gun and the rest employed as Yesterday. this morning I had from an Indian a 3 1/2 Foot Gun which has been brought from Canada by Mr Frobisher's Partnership marked and tated the same as the Company's Guns. I have given a new gun in return in purpose to send the other to England for your honor's Perusal. as I always understood that Counterfeiting the Stamp or Coat of Arms of any Company is punishable by law. the traders from Canada has done everything in their power to injure the Companys trade and at last have fallen on the Scheme of Counterfeiting which if not timely put a stop to, will be destructive to the Companys trade."
Mar. 14
" Friday Wind SW a small Breeze with clear fine weather and thawed a little towards noon. the men employed about various duties. Mr Longmoor and myself trading with the Indians and made them Presents as usual. in the evening James Oman, George Short and David Allen arrived from the South Branch with the agreeable news of all being well there, thank God."
Mar. 15
" Saturday Wind Westerly a fresh Breeze with clear weather. 2 men sawing boards for necefsary uses. taylor making Cloathing for the men and the rest cut firewood. finished with the Indians and at noon they went away. those have brought 410 MBeaver in sundry sorts of furrs. in the evening 2 Indian lads came for Tobacco."
Mar. 16
" Sunday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. packed up 310 1/2 MBeaver in sundry articles of trading goods for the South Branch; the 2 Young lads that came Yesterday got Tobacco and went away."
Mar. 17
" Monday Wind Westerly a small Breeze with clear weather. Gilbert Laughton employed in the Smiths way. 2 men sawing Plank for flooring. 2 men making Wedges for the Prefs; John Flatt much the old way, and the rest cut firewood. at 9 O'Clock the Packet men returned back to the South Branch with what trading goods I could spare. in the evening 1 Tent of Indians arrived with furrs to trade. Paid their debts and got drunk."
Mar. 18
" Tuesday Wind Easterly weather as before. and the men employed as Yesterday. the Indians still drunk."
Mar. 19
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as before till the evening then shifted to WNW and blowed very hard. the men employed about various Jobbs. traded with one of the Indians and made him a present as he is a staid Indian and always trades with me. the other traded a part of his furrs and wanted to trade the rest at the other houses which I would not comply with. at the same time told him if I could not give him what he wanted, he should have Liberty to go elsewhere, however he took the huff and went out. but the furrs remains in the House. and shall. this is owing to the other houses debauching them with Liquor. but I am determined it shall not help them."
Mar. 20
" Thursday Wind NW and blowed a heavy gale with flying clouds. Gilbert Laughton repairing an old broad axe and some old hatchets for felling firewood. the rest employed within doors. and cut firewood."
Mar. 21
" Friday Wind Westerly a fresh Breeze with clear thawing weather. Gilbert Laughton employed in the Smith way. Mr Longmoor and Magnes Twatt looking out for stuff for Gunnels for Canoes. 1 man making Mallets for the Prefs. 2 men at the Pitt Saw and the rest cut firewood. traded the remainder of the Indians furrs that refused trading the other day and made him sensible of his error in wanting to trade his furrs with the Canadians."
Mar. 22
" Saurday Wind Easterly a fresh breeze with clear weather. Sent Mr Longmoor, Magnes Twatt, and 2 more to get Gunnels for Canoes. 4 men gathering a little Pitch. the rest employed about various duties."
Mar. 23
" Sunday Wind NE a fresh Breeze weather cloudy with a little Snow. in the evening 1 man with his Family arrived according to Promise to go for Birchrind."
Mar. 24
" Monday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear thawing weather. the men employed about various duties. at noon John Irvine and 2 Pekenow Indians came for Tobacco which they got and went off again and have sent James Gaddy along with them in lieu of John Irvine as there is 6 Canadians that came up with them a few days ago, and doing all in their power to debauch the Indians."
Mar. 25
" Tuesday Wind variable all round fresh breezes with clear weather. Sent Mr Longmoor, Magnes Twatt and 4 men more to split wood work for Canoes. the rest employed about odd Jobbs. at noon the Pekenow Indians arrived; only 7 men and very poorly gooded, and these inform me of 2 men more Coming in when the Snow is gone which is all that is to come from that Quarter. the men that was with them informs me that a number of them has been at war, and have killed 13 Snake Indians and are all going to war again this Summer. there has been 7 Canadians tenting with them all winter and only got 1 man to go with them to their House, and 2 Blackfoot's to the other."
Mar. 26
" Wednesday Wind NW a fresh gale weather cloudy with a little Snow. the men employed cutting firewood and attending the House to prevent the Natives from thieving. traded with part of the Indians and some of them went away."
Mar. 27
" Thursday Wind NW a small Breeze with clear sharp weather. Gilbert Laughton making some Beaver hooks to give the Indians as encouragement for them to kill Beaver. the Taylor making Cloathing for the men. Magnes Twatt employed in the Carpenter way and the rest cut firewood. fitted out 2 men with their families and sent them away, to get Birch rind for Canoes. in the evening the remainder of the Pekenow Indians went away. these have brought 200 Wolves. 2 Foxes. 50 parchment Beaver. and 80 lbs of Provisions. the men that came with them has brought 170 Skins of different Sorts."
Mar. 28
" Friday little wind variable with clear weather. Gilbert Laughton making a few Nails for the Prefs. Magnes Twatt repairing the Prefs. a men bringing some birchwood for necefsary uses. 2 men at the Pit saw and the rest cut firewood."
Mar. 29
" Saturday Wind variable fresh Breezes with clear warm weather. Gilbert Laughton making bolts out of Ice Chizzels to put into the prefs which is Split. the rest employed at the Prefs and doing odd Jobbs within doors. Packed 20 Bundles of furrs to day. at noon an Indian arrived brought 7 Skins which he traded for Liquor. also some Shoe Leather and went away."
Mar. 30
" Sunday Wimd Northerly a fresh gale weather cloudy with Snow and drift most part of the day."
Mar. 31
" Monday Wind NW a fresh gale with clear sharp weather. the men employed at the Prefs except 2 that got themselves lam'd by their own foolishnefs. John Flatt of a cut in his knee. Thomas Robinson had his hand much bruised. Packed 25 Bundles of furrs."
Apr. 1 1788
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a fresh Breeze with cloudy cold weather. the People employed at the Prefs. Packed 15 bundles of furrs to day."
Apr. 2
" Wednesday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. Gilbert Laughton repairing a trading gun and the rest employed at the Prefs Packed 13 Bundles of furs to day. at noon 1 tent of Indians arrived with a few furrs to trade and a little Provisions."
Apr. 3
" Thursday Wind WNW a fresh Breeze with clear sharp weather. Gilbert Laughton making firesteels and the rest cut firewood. traded with the Indians and made them presents as usual."
Apr. 4
" Friday Wind Westerly a stiff Breeze weather as Yesterday. Sent Mr Longmoor, Magnes Twatt and 4 men to fall and Split wood for Canoe work. the Smith and Taylor employed in their respective duties and the rest packed 20 Bundles of furrs. in the evening 3 Southward Indian Lads came for Tobacco and Horses to bring in Birchrind for Canoes."
Apr. 5
" Saturday Wind variable from West to South a fresh Breeze with cold weather. the men employed getting firewood. in the Evening Mr Longmoor and those with him came home with some Timbers and Splinters; in the Evening an Indian man arrived with a gun that wanted a little repair."
Apr. 6
" Sunday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear fine weather. in the Evening an Indian arrived that hunted some part of the winter for Mr Walker at the Branch. having bursted the gun he had for Payment has come to get another which I cannot comply with."
Apr. 7
" Monday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Sent Mr Longmoor Magnes Twatt and 4 more to get Timbers and Splinters for Canoes. Smith and Taylor employed in their way. 2 men still lame and the rest at the Prefs. Packed 19 Bundles of furrs to day. the Indians that came for Tobacco on Friday went away. and have sent 3 Horses with them. in the Afternoon one of the Swampy ground afsine poet Indians came for Tobacco which he got and went off again. the Indian that brought his gun to be repaired also went away."
Apr. 8
" Tuesday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze with clear warm weather. most part of the men employed getting Paddles. and the rest doing trifling Jobbs within doors. at noon the Stone Indians arrived and a part went to each house. the hunters also came home but have made a very poor hunt."
Apr. 9
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. the men employed cleaning the boat and doing other trifling duties. traded with the Indians and made the Leader a present as usual and they went away at noon; the reason they were so much in a hurry to get off is that one of Mr Pangman's hunters was stabbed in the neck last night but not mortal; and yet I am of Opinion this affair will not end here. indeed I must acknowledge the Canadians has the Occasion of many Disputes happening between the different tribes of Indians by Intoxicating them with hot fiery rum. late in the Evening Mr Longmoor and 8 men came home and had some difficulty in getting acrofs the River. being obliged to launch the boat to take them off the Ice."
Apr. 10
" Thursday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with very warm weather. the men employed falling firewood. Mr Longmoor and 2 more excepted that went in search of 13 Horses the Stone Indians stole Yesterday. they returned late in the Evening with the whole but had some difficulty before they could get them back; late in the Evening Magnes Twatt and the 2 men with him came home. Swans & Geese seen to day."
Apr. 11
" Friday Wind NW a fresh gale weather part Cloudy part Clear. Magnes Twatt and 4 more bringing home timber for Canoes and the rest attending the horses and fell firewood. at noon 4 Indians arrived with a few Skins which they traded for Liquor and went back to their Tents about 5 miles from this."
Apr. 12
" Saturday Wind ESE a fresh Breeze with cold cloudy weather. Magnes Twatt employed in Canoe work. Gilbert Laughton repairing the boat, which is a difficult Jobb as she is very ill built and it is not pofsible for the best Carpenter in England to make her tight, without taking Pieces out and putting fresh Pieces in, which Gilbert Laughton is obliged to do. 2 men sawing Gunnels for a Canoe. and the rest cut firewood. in the Afternoon 4 Tents of Southward Indians arrived but very poorly gooded also the same Number went to the other Houses."
Apr. 13
" Sunday Wind SE a fresh Breeze with flying Clouds and much warmer than Yesterday. the Indians still drunk. traded 8 Beaver unskinned. also 8 Roles of Birchrind from those that came Yesterday. in the Evening a Sufsew Indian man and 6 women arrived at Mr Pangman's House. these give Information of a great Quarrel amongst themselves and that 4 men is killed and several more wounded. one of those killed was the best amongst them and used to trade with me formerly."
Apr. 14
" Monday Wind Southerly a small Breeze weather part Cloudy part Clear. Gilbert Laughton Caulking the boat. Magnes Twatt and 1 man planeing timbers for Canoes. Thomas Robertson still lame of his hand. John Flatt something better and the rest falling firewood for the next Year. traded with some of the Indians and made them presents as usual. I would have traded with the whole of them had not Pangman Debauched them with Liquor thinking to Persuade them to gett their furrs out of the House and trade with him. some did come and demand their furrs, but I would not let them have a skin; those from Canada have the advantage of us, by all their Rum being double distilled, so that every kegs makes 5 and what I have had this Year, some of it would not make two and as black as water that had not been Pumped out of a ship for 2 months, which several of the men can declare."
Apr. 15
" Tuesday Wind variable fresh Breezes weather as Yesterday. the Indians still drunk the men employed as before. William Folster wanted to Exchange a gun with a Canadian but I would not consent to any such Traffick as I well knew such trade would be detrimental to the Company's Interest."
Apr. 16
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a fresh gale weather cloudy with Snow at times. since 10 O'Clock last Night more Snow has fell than as fell at any one time for these 12 months past. Magnes Twatt and 1 man as before and the rest Employed cleaning the Yard and got a little firewood. last Night 2 Sufsew young Indians arrived for Tobacco for 1 man on his Journey in. these give the same information as I had before and to confirm it they shew their boats that was bored with the shot."
Apr. 17
" Thursday Wind NW a fresh Breeze with cloudy cold weather. Sent Mr Longmoor and Robert Davy to meet the Indians I sent to bring birch rind on the 27th March. at noon Mr Longmoor returned, and informs me he saw the Indians, and spoke to them. and on his return met several others going with Liquor from Pangman's House to intercept them to endeavour to get the Birch rind from them. by which reason I was induced to send men to bring the birchrind and to treat them with 2 Gallons of Brandy for nothing. in the Evening the men returned with the bark except a little that would be of little use to us. the rest employed about various Jobbs. at noon 1 Tent of Sufsew Indians arrived but have brought little or nothing. by their account they have fled from the others and are going to stay with the Southward Indians. their reports still the same as before. one of them had a ball through his thigh."
Apr. 18
" Friday Wind Easterly and weather as Yesterday. Magnes Twatt working at Canoe work. Gilbert Laughton doing Jobbs in the Smiths way for Indians and the rest employed about odd Jobbs; and Crofsing the Indians that brought the birchrind. also an Indian that brought a few furrs to trade. 2 tents of those here before; Crofsed to the North Side."
Apr. 19
" Saturday Wind NE weather much the same as before. the men employed as Yesterday. Paid the Indians that brought the Birch Rind and traded 30 Martins from an Indian for doctor stuff, which was chiefly confectionary. I have traded in all this Year 134 Martins. 7 Beaver. 8 Wolves. and 2 Quickhatches. and the whole Box when I received it from Mr Robinson was not worth 40 Shillings. was it not for the Spices and Confectionary I should look very foolish when Indians Came to ask for Medicines. indeed what comes here is not real. and but of little use. the River blown up in several places."
Apr. 20
" Sunday Wind ESE a small Breeze weather for the most part Cloudy in the Evening rigged the Indian in full that arrived on Friday and gave him 7 1/2 Gallons of Liquor this I have done on account of Pangman having done all in his Power to Debauch the said Indian, and got so far as to get part of his furrs. for which he rigged him in Expectation of getting the whole. such is the Villainy of those Rogues from Canada. had your Honors but 12 Canoes with men and goods to the Northward these gentry would soon be ruined. as that Quarter holds them up. our present Number of Canoes not being sufficient to support the trade in this River. Prevents me from sending to that Quarter."
Apr. 21
" Monday Wind Variable light Breezes weather part Cloudy part Clear. Magnes Twatt bending Timbers for Canoes. Gilbert Laughton Caulking the boat. the rest employed about various Jobbs; and in the Evening put some of the Indians over to the North Side. had a smart shower of rain last night."
Apr. 22
" Tuesday Wind NNE a stiff gale with cold cloudy weather. the men employed at Canoe work. Cutting firewood and laying it in heaps for the next winters Use. In the Evening an Indian arrived from the Southward brought the flesh of 1 Beaver & 4 Skins."
Apr. 23
" Wednesday Wind as Yesterday. weather clear 'till the Evening afterwards cloudy and inclinable to Snow. Gilbert Laughton working at the boat. Magnes Twatt and 2 more at Canoe work. and the rest employed at the Prefs. Packed 18 Bundles of furrs to day. the Indians still Tenting on the North Side on account of Pangman giving them rum every day for nothing which makes them very troublesome here. in the Evening several came here and demanded Liquor from me. but I told them that my stock was almost out and that I could not comply with their request. further than giving each of them a 1/2 pint to drink."
Apr. 24
" Thursday Wind NW a small Breeze with clear weather but the air very cold. the men employed about various duties. Packed 11 Bundles of furrs to day. in the Evening James Tate, Mitchell Oman, James Spence Senior and 4 more came home. brought a little dried Provisions, some green meat and a few wolves and foxes of their own killing. James Tate has trapped and killed with his Gun 21 Wolves, Foxes Grey 10, Red 4, Wenusk 1, Jackash 1, and Beavers 3. some of the others have caught a few but none have killed that Number. indeed he is a valuable Servant."
Apr. 25
" Friday Wind Northerly a small breeze with clear weather. the men employed as Yesterday. Packed 12 Bundles of furrs to day. Gilbert Laughton finished repairing the boat, but it is not pofsible for any Carpenter in England to make her tight, without building her over again. Gilbert Laughton is a very handy man for nothing comes amifs to him that is wanted to be done here, either in Smiths, Cooper, Armourer, or Carpenter way."
Apr. 26
" Saturday Wind SE a fresh Breeze with clear weather. the men employed about various duties. an Indian arrived from the fighting River and brings the account of some fall Indians arriving at that place and that some of the Southward Indians fell upon them, shot one of the Leading men and robbed them of ther furrs which they ? ? ? impudent villains of Canada Traders, which is and will be the ruin of this Country."
Apr. 27
" Sunday Wind NE a stiff gale weather part Cloudy part Clear. in the evening sent 6 men in search of 13 horses stole last night 3 of which are the Companys that I have bought this Year."
Apr. 28
" Monday Wind variable first part Clear and very hot latter part Cloudy with thunder and a little rain. Sent Mr Longmoor and three more to look for the stray horses, which returned in the Evening, as also did those that went last Night having found all that were lost. Magnes Twatt, William Folster and Robert Garrock working at Canoe work, Gilbert Laughton doing small Jobbs in the Smiths way, and the rest taking the Canoes out of the Ground to dry: ready for repairing. John Flat is now tolerable well and goes to duty with the rest. he has had about 25 Vomits and upwards of 30 Doses of Physick and as often been bled."
Apr. 29
" Tuesday Wind NE a small breeze with clear warm weather. Sent James Tate, James Spence, and Magnes Tate a hunting. William Rich, Nicholas Allan, John Flat and Andrew Flatt to take care of the Horses and Prevent the Indians from thieving them. also sent 10 men acrofs the river to get roots for sewing Canoes. at noon the river came down, and Prevented their getting acrofs. unfortunately they have no Provisions with ? ? which is their own faults. Gilbert Laughton making awls for sewing Canoes. Mr Longmoor and two men turning timbers for a Canoe. 2 men repairing Canoes. Magnes Twatt putting thawrts in the Gunnels. one man drefsing of Splinters and the rest employed within doors."
Apr. 30
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a small Breeze with rain in the forenoon afterwards clear weather. the People employed as Yesterday. at noon the men that went for roots got acrofs all well thank god also James Tate and those with him came home with 6 Horse loads of Buffalo meat. also one Horse load from an Indian."
May 1 1788
" Thursday Wind WNW a fresh Breeze with clear warm weather. the men employed as Yesterday except James Spence that went a hunting. I was informed this day by Mr Humfreville that as just arrived from the fighting river. that a small band of fall Indians came in there and that 10 Tents of Southward Indians fell upon them and killed the leading man, after which they cut off his arms, head, Private Parts and took out his bowels and then took what furrs they had untraded with them. this has been done by those that came from the South Branch and always trades with the Canadians."
May. 2
" Friday Wind NW a fresh gale with clear weather. 6 men getting roots and the rest employed about various duties. it being too cold to work at Canoes. Packed up what little trading goods remains ready for carrying down to Hudson House as I find it imprudent to Leave unexperienced People so high up in the country. Especially at present as there is nothing but Quarreling amongst the different tribes of Indians."
May 3
" Saturday Wind variable with heavy rain at times. the men employed making paddles and bringing stones for the use of Canoe building. Pangman sent for several of the Indians from the fighting river. to go to the fall Indians amd make Peace with them. but as rum is to be the reward War will break out amongst themselves. this is my Opinion."
May 4
" Sunday Wind variable all round the Compafs Squaly with heavy showers of hail; Sent 2 men to inform those that are keeping the horses they are to bring all home to morrow morning in order to go to Hudson House. late in the Evening Pangmans Mefsengers returned, as also did some of those they went for. and was not long before the Rum began to fly, which was a little troublesome to me but to no purpose as I would not Comply with their demands."
May 5
" Monday Wind NE a fresh gale weather part Cloudy part Clear. Sent off 13 men with the Horses loaded with 22 Bundles of furrs and 4 Parcels of dry goods for Hudson House. Magnes Twatt and Mr Longmoor Putting a Canoe on the Stocks but could make little of it owing to the cold weather. Mr Pangman's peace making has come to a Quarrel amongst themselves by which a horse has been killed a gun broken and another horse taken in lieu of the one killed, and I am still of Opinion the affair will not end here."
May 6
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as before. got 2 Canoes pitched ready for going down to Cumberland House to get repaired, as the weather does not permit at present."
May 7
" Wednesday Wind SE a fresh gale with clear weather. the men employed building and repairing Canoes, also Crofsing some Indians over to the South Side the River. Sent off 2 families for Hudson House to hunt there during the Summer."
May 8
" Thursday Wind SE a stiff gale with clear weather. at 6 AM embarked 2 Canoes for Hudson House loaded with 20 Bundles of furrs. 5 bags of Pemmecan, and 100 lbs of fat, also 3 men with myself in the boat loaded with furrs, Stores in &c we rowed and handed till 7 PM then put up short of the fighting river. had much difficulty to get over the sand banks owing to the boat being ill built and draws too much water."
May 9
" Friday Wind and weather as Yesterday. at 5 AM we proceeded and rowed 'till 7 PM then put up still obliged to hand over the sand banks."
May 10
" Saturday Wind variable from SE to North fresh breezes with cloudy weather. at a half past 4 AM we embarked. rowed and handed till 7 PM then put up. saw a great many buffalo but did not take time to go after them, the Season being too far spent."
May 11
" Sunday Wind Northerly a fresh breeze with clear weather. at 4 AM we embarked. rowed and handed at times, till a half past 6 PM then arrived at Hudson House. and found it in as good order as could be expected."
May 12
" Monday Wind NE a stiff gale with clear weather. the men employed Cleaning the House and Clearing some of the garden ground ready for digging. at noon the 13 men sent by land arrived all safe thank god."
May 13
" Tuesday Wind NW a strong Gale with Clear weather. the men employed taking care of the Horses, and puttng things to right about the House. at 2 PM embarked 2 Canoes for Cumberland House loaded with 22 Bundles of furrs, 300 lbs of Pemmecan, and 50 lbs of Castorum."
May 14
" Wednesday Wind variable in the North Quarter fresh breezes with clear weather. the men employed repairing the Stockades and putting Parchment on the windows. at 6 AM sett out for the South Branch House and at 4 PM arrived there. found all well thank god."
May 15
" Thursday Wind SE a fresh Breeze weather Cloudy amd inclinable to rain. Packed 14 Bundles of furrs. the men at Hudson House employed sowing a part of the garden and taking care of the Horse."
May 16
" Friday Wind NE weather cloudy with heavy rain from eight last Night till 6 this evening then cleared up a little. packed 10 Bundles of furrs."
May 17
" Saturday Wind NE a stiff gale with heavy rain throughout the day. no working without doors. sorted the furrs ready for Packing. they are in general very bad furrs at this Place, owing to the Canadians having encouraged the Indians to kill a number of Summer beaver. of which Mr Walker was obliged to take a part. and his Neighbour is no better either in Quality or Quantity."
May 18
" Sunday Wind NNE a fresh gale with a continual Snow all day."
May 19
" Monday Wind North a fresh breeze with clear weather but very cold for the Season of the Year. froze pretty hard last Night. at 10 PM sett out from the South Branch House and at 10 AM arrived very much fatigued with the badnefs of the road. owing to the late heavy rain and Snow."
May 20
" Tuesday Wind variable weather cloudy with Snow at times. Sent James Spence and James Gaddy a hunting. the rest looking after stray horses and doing odd Jobbs about the House. in the evening Mr Longmoor and the rest of the men arrived from Manchester House. brought all safe. Mr Pangman has left 7 men up above. but it is every man's opinion, that he will repent of so doing, as they will be induced to expend a great deal of goods."
May 21
" Wednesday Wind variable fresh gales weather part Cloudy part Clear. Magnes Twatt repairing a Canoe that broke coming down and the rest employed about various Jobbs. took down the flag staff. cut off part of the rotten end and put it up again in the Evening. last Evening Mr William Holmes arrived here and encamped on the Plantation."
May 22
" Thursday Wind Northerly a fresh Breeze weather part Cloudy part Clear. Magnes Twatt repairing a Canoe the rest getting ready for their Journey down. Sent Mitchell Oman and 3 men more to the South River to afsist in bringing the Canoes down from that place.. early this morning Mr Holmes Embarked. and sett off. he has 6 men and nothing in his Canoe but lumber. he is highly exasperated against his Partnership for the ill treatment he has received from them this last Year. he has hinted as much that he intends to go to England and apply to the Honorable Hudsons Bay Company for employ, and should he succeed; in my Opinion, it will hurt the Canada Traders much. as he is well beloved by the Canadians, and is able to bring a number of good hands into this Service, he knows the Language well, and how to manage them."
May 23
" Friday Wind North a strong gale weather for the most part Cloudy with Snow at times. could not embark the Canoes, it being too cold and blowed hard. ? made a strcht overhaul of the Stores and trading goods and appointed 6 men to stay up all Summer; to take care of the House and Horses &c."
May 24
" Saturday Wind variable in the North quarter fresh breezes with a smart shower of rain at noon. at 7 AM embarked 11 canoes and 29 Men loaded with 132 Bundles of Furrs and 1452 lbs Pimmacon for the Journey down. paddled till 8 PM then put up a little above the Branch. I have left the following Persons at Hudson House Viz. James Tate Master. David Thompson Writer, Nicholas Allen, Peter Brown, Andrew Flatt, and William Rich. the latter I was obliged to leave up on account of his Arm being too Weak and not able to bear the hardships of the Journey down; James Tate I was induced to leave in charge having no other person to leave so capable. and will mifs him greatly. he being the best Canoe Man on this Establishment."
May 25
" Sunday Wind as yesterday with fine clear Weather. at 6 AM we embarked. and paddled 'till 1/2 past 6 PM then put up. at 8 AM pafsed by the Branch where Mr Pangman's Canoes were all waiting for those up that River. 12 Canoes with 129 Packs. each weighing 90 lbs being all he has made out of 240 bundles of Goods. out of which 84 8 and 10 gallon kegs of double distilled Rum. 6 quarts of this Liquor makes one 8 gallon keg of strong Liquor for Indians to drink. and the English Brandy requires 12 quarts to make 7 1/2 Gallons. so much They beat us in the carriage of that Article."
May 26
" Monday Wind Northerly a fresh Gale. Weather cloudy with rain till Noon afterwards flying showers. at noon we embarked. and paddled till 1/2 past 8 PM then put up. the Men killed several Beaver and 1 old Black Bear to Day."
May 27
" Tuesday Wind Easterly a fresh Breeze with clear Weather. at 4 AM we proceeded and paddled 'till 1/2 past 6 PM then put up. killed a few Beaver to Day. last Evening two canoes from the Branch came up with us. Mitchell Oman and James Spence Jun. loaded with 24 bundles of Furrs and 240 lbs Pimmacon."
May 28
" Wednesday Wind SEast a fresh Gale Weather first part clear latter part cloudy with a little rain. at Noon we arrived safe at Cumberland House. where we found all well thank God. James Anderson and Charles the Canadian Excepted. they have been ailing most part of the Winter."
" From Cumberland House to York Factory"
June 9 1788
" Monday Wind variable with clear fine Weather. took a survey of the small remains of trading Goods and stores. and at 9 AM embarked 14 Men in 6 canoes loaded with 69 Bundles of Furrs and 732 lbs Provisions. there is in all 22 canoes of English and 10 of Indian and there is still left 14 Bundles of Furrs not for want of canoes but for want of Men to Mann them. I have left the following Persons at Cumberland House. Malchom Rofs in charge John Kirknefs and Charles the Canadian both the latter not being fit to go down. the one being Sick and the other lame."
June 10
" Tuesday Wind variable in the South quarter fresh Breezes with a smart shower of Rain in the Evening. at 3 AM we embarked and paddled 'till 6 PM then put up to pitch our canoes some being very Leaky."
June 11
" Wednesday Wind ESEast a fresh gale Weather part cloudy part clear and inclinable to rain. at 1/2 past 3 AM we proceeded and at one PM put up in the Cedar Lake as it blowed too hard for paddling."
June 12
" Thursday Wind variable from SEast to SWest a strong Gale with clear Weather. could not proceed. the Indians canoes did not come up last night. one of which is supposed to have returned back to Cumberland House."
June 13
" Friday Wind Westerly clear Weather and blowed much harder then it did yesterday still Weather bound. last Evening one of the Canoes that was behind came up but saw nothing of the other."
June 14
" Saturday Wind NNWest a strong Gale with clear Weather 'till 6 PM then calmed a little. we embarked and paddled all night."
June 15
" Sunday Wind variable Weather part cloudy part clear. we paddled from 6 last night 'till 9 this Morning then arrived at the great Fall carried all over without eating since 12 O Clock yesterday. the canoes that went a head we came up with in the Night but five, four of which went down the Fall this Morning. Mitchell Oman they did not see, but the Canadians informs that he went from here five Days agoe."
June 16
" Monday Wind variable from SEast to NW calm in the Morning afterwards blowed hard with heavy rain. at 5 AM we proceeded down the Fall and at 8 got all safe down thank God. all the Canadians are still lying here waiting till we pafs by for fear of their Men running away to leave them, which on my arrival here they inform me of. I told them I would not Engage any Blackguards neither would I have any that were not clear and free with his former Master. set the Nets."
June 17
" Tuesday Wind NWest a stiff Gale Weather cloudy with flying showers of Rain. could not proceed. at Noon the Canadians went down to the entrance of the Lake but cannot go any further. had middling Luck with the nets to Day. the Canadians Masters wanted me to give them a certificate from under my hand that I would not engage any of their Men. this I declined and told them that I would engage any good Man that would come in free. but at the same time would have nothing to say to runnagadaes."
June 18
" Wednesday Wind variable from North to East and blowed fresh 'till noon afterwards calm fine Weather. at 6 AM we embarked and paddled 'till 1/2 past 8 PM then put ashore and had something to Eat, then put off again and paddled all night. at Noon as we were paddling along the Lake side Mr Longmoore found a man that has run away from the Canadians on Account of ill usage received from them. Mr Longmoore offered him Provisions to carry him back but he swore bitterly that he would perish on the Spot where he was sooner than return and beged hard to be taken into one of the canoes which Mr Longmoore did his Name is James Wood, and comes from Ireland. the Canadians Traders do not mind the Lofs of a man, but they are affraid of more of them following the same example. they now begin to threaten their Men and the Men do the same to them in their turns."
June 19
" Thursday Wind ESEast a fresh Breeze with clear Weather. we paddled 'till 7 AM then obliged to put ashore as it blowed hard from ESEast with a great Swell in the Lake. at 7 PM we put off again and paddled till 12 at Night when it began to blow hard from ESEast with much Swell which induced us to put ashore as fast as pofsible. at 2 AM obliged to move Goods and canoes further up from the Water."
June 20
" Friday Wind SEast a strong Gale with rain towards Evening. at Noon obliged to move all still further up the Bank as the Gale increased which made the Sea run very high. at 4 PM obliged to move all up the bank a third time. the breakers took an Indian canoe of the Shore and almost broke her all to Pieces, and some of the Men had some Difficulty to take her out of the Water."
June 21
" Saturday Wind Southerly a small Breeze with clear Weather. Magnes Twatt and Edward Wishart mending the Indian Canoe that was broke Yesterday. at 8 PM got her finished to the pitching and embarked paddled all Night. 5 Indian canoes behind."
June 22
" Sunday Wind NNEast a stiff Gale with clear Weather. paddled from eight last night 'till eight this Morning. then put up at the Rendesvous Lake it being too much wind to paddle against. two Tents of Indians tenting here. these have traded the most part of their Furrs with the Canadians at the poplar River. one day's Journey from this. traded a few furs from them."
June 23
" Monday Wind NEast a small Breeze with clear Weather. at 6 AM we embarked and paddled 'till 1/2 past 8 PM then put up at the Entrance of Eachewemamus. 5 canoes of Indians still behind."
June 24
" Tuesday Wind SWest a fresh Breeze Weather as yesterday. at 1/2 past 3 AM embarked and paddled and sailed 'till 1/2 past 8 PM then put up half way from Eachewemames to the White fall. the Indians still behind."
June 25
" Wednesday Wind WSWest a fresh Breeze with clear weather till the Evening afterwards varied to the NEast and blowed fresh with Thunder. at 1/2 past 3 AM we embarked. paddled and sailed at times till 1/2 past 8 PM then put up much fatigued having had two long carrying places to Day. the Indian that had his Canoe broken in the great Lake came up to us this Evening."
June 26
" Thursday Wind NEast blowed fresh with clear Weather. at 1/2 past 2 AM we embarked and paddled with the Wind right a head 'till 1/2 past 7 PM then put up half way through the deep Water Lake."
June 27
" Friday Wind Southerly a fresh Breeze with clear weather. at 2 AM we embarked. paddled handed and carried 'till 4 PM then entered Maskechequan Lake. and sailed all night with a fresh Breeze. going at the rate of four and five miles in the Hour."
June 28
" Saturday Wind SSWest a stiff breeze with clear hot weather. at 8 AM we put up at the End of Maskechequan Lake to sleep and have some Rest having had none for the last 30 Hours. 5 canoes of Indians behind."
June 29
" Sunday Wind variable from South to NWest fresh Gales with heavy rain attended with thunder and Lightning. at 8 AM we embarked and paddled and carried 'till 1/2 past 4 PM then put up at the Entrance of the swampy Lake. Mr Longmoore very much out of order of a severe pain between his Shoulders. which renders him unfit for Duty. by which his Canoe was much Damaged on a Rock."
June 30
" Monday Wind NEast a fresh Breeze Weather part cloudy part clear. James Saunderson repairing the canoe that was broke yesterday which detain'd us 'till noon. then Embarked and paddled till 5 PM then put up a little way down the Hill River. this Evening came up with Mitchell Oman. he has been by himself ever since he left Cumberland House. 5 canoes of Indians still behind."
July 1 1788
" Tuesday Wind SEast a small breeze with clear fine Weather. at 5 AM we proceeded down the Falls. paddled handed and carried till 6 PM then put up below the great Hill. the great quantity of water makes some of the Falls very bad. William Folster with his Canoe and two Men more narrowly escaped being swamped coming down a fall the canoe foundered but by Gods Providence she lightned again and they got safe down. except wetting some of the Furrs."
July 2
" Wednesday Wind in the East quarter fresh Breezes with cloudy weather. at 6 AM we embarked paddled handed and carried 'till noon then got over all the Falls thank God all safe afterwards proceeded down the Hill and steel Rivers. at 9 PM entered Hayes River, and paddled all Night the Muschettos being very troublesome to go on shore."
July 3
" Thursday Wind Southerly a fresh Breeze Weather part cloudy part clear. we paddled all Night and at Noon arrived at the ruins of York where thank God we found Mr Joseph Colen and all with him in good Health, but was very sorry to hear of the Melancholy Situation they were in at the breaking up of the River which in the whole has done much Damage."
"William Tomison"
[Empty pages later]
" Prevented me till this time. it was the 28th April before the River broke up, which prevented us from either building or repairing Canoes: there has been several disputes amongst the different tribes of Indians and as I had but a small stock of Ammunition and Tobacco, I did not think it prudent to leave men so high up in the Country, so therefore have brought all down to Hudson House. and there to leave six men to pafs the Summer which I think will be with greater safety, than had I left them at Manchester House.
You will receive from the bearers Will. Flett Sen. and Andrew Corrigel, steers men 22 Bundles furrs, and five bags Pemmecan, which I hope you will receive safe, having nothing more to add at present. shall Conclude wishing Succefs to the Companys affairs, Health and Happinefs to you, and all under your directon, and Remain with the greatest Respect.
Sir
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
Will. Tomison"
[That was the end of the letter. Here is the beginning of the letter. I think.]
" Hudson House May 15th 1788
Sir
By the arrival of John Sebeston, James Davey and Hugh Bakey January 16th I received your agreeable Letter. which gave me great Pleasure to hear of the safe arrival of their Honors Ship in due time, as also the men and goods sent up.
The sundry articles of trading Goods you sent, came all safe to the South Branch where Mr Walker opened them, and took a part of them as he was short of some articles, and transmitted the Remainder safe to me.
I am sorry to hear that Edward Wishart should so falsely accuse me in being Carelefs of the Company's Servants and their property; but I think you can declare as also many others, that had he, the said Edward Wishart, and some others followed the Example that I have shewn, and the Precautions given to them. I must say no such melancholy accidents would have happened, as did last Summer. I have been so far from leading them into bad road, that I have Carried when? none else did, and if they are so foolish as to go down bad falls and lose their things. I do not think I have any right to make them up their lofs out of the Companys Property; I think Edward Wishart and Hugh Leask acted in a mutinous manner, in denying to come up with the Packet, as it was shewing a bad Example to others. I have travelled myself and have known others that has done the same; but never knew that a servant had a right to demand pay for the same. as he is Paid by the year, from the Company. as to your not sending them up by water. I do not think you acted imprudently, for had they been sent there, they would have had greater reason to have denied; then they had at the time you desired them to go; I never was against allowing a man something for his Wear and Tare, but any further I never will be Compelled to by any man. without an order from the Company to the Contrary, and then it will be an easy matter for any man to obey that order.
I am glad to hear that John Irvin had got better for he is a good Servant, and am sorry to hear that James Anderson had got bad, as he seemed to be very hearty when we left the Place. we had a very bad pafsage up last Autumn, owing to the severe cold weather. it was the second of October before we arrived at Manchester House. and the Ice had not melted off our Canoes for three days before.
I have the Pleasure to inform you that the trade at this place is no worse than last Year, and by what I can hear has increased a little at the South Branch. and hope it will do the same with you. I would have sent down sooner, but the Season has been so late, and the inconvenience of the times has Preven-"
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" South Branch January 7th 1788
Mr Tomison
Sir
By the bearers John Sebeston, Js. Davey? and Hughey Bakey on the 2nd Inst. I received a pacquet from Cumberland House with the Letters from England that came up last Autumn: also Yours on the 6th which gave me great pleasure to hear of your good Situation of Health, also those under your Direction.
I am very sorry to hear you have a bad ? in your Trade but it is no more than anyone might expect ? out the Peek'e'now and Blood Indians gather to a more numerous party and so come into the Settlements together ? may keep off this Year but they will not exceed two. Mr Nicholas Montuer is the uprightest Trader I have seen from Canadia as so far advanced.
Your Goods that you sent me all arrived safe and in good condition for which I return you many thanks. & as for? the Observation you have made in the Tobacco it is very Just for this same winter I have known the Indians to go from my House with Skins to trade Tobacco at the the french house. and as for the Powder I have only opened one Keg that was fine.
I own I have very bad Skins that I got in the fall nay I even denyed them as long as I could 'till they told me If I did not take them now I should not get their winter ones by and by; Nay, I even sent Tob. to some Stone Indians to keep them away 'till the Canadians arrived. but it was all the same.
The late Arrival of the Canadians was so much the worse for me Considering the Smallnefs of my goods.
There was some Spears and Knives that was packed up for you that came from C. House of which I made free of, Spears 30, Knives Yew handle 36, and Large Long 24, for which I hope you will excuse my freedom. I have nothing more to relate but Conclude wishing a Continuation to your health and all under your Direction. A better view of Prosperity to your trade is mine Sincere. and so Remain
Sir
Your most Obedient
& humble Servant
William Walker."
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" the before mentioned, I replied. the Articles of his Contract obliged him to go, he said not, and would abide by what he said - he told? me I might have sent them up in the fall of the Year - It was? the 10th of October before they arrived. the two following days was? very bad weather, the third day the Lake was in part froze over and Continued 'till the 17th. the 13th was rather milder but frost in the Night - I leave it Sir to your Superior Judgement whether it was prudent to venture to send off Men at that advanced Season of the Year. or to wait till the winter. when I spoke to Hugh Lisk he complained of his back being sore. I replied I saw no Alteration in him either in his face or in his Duty. at last he said he would be Da-m-d if he went. but in his turn. I had no other men to send but Edward, and Hugh Lisk. and those now sent.
As yet no Indians have arrived but expect them daily. the whole of the Indians here about have been here in the fall, and brought me a good Supply of Green and Dried Provisions. but the Number of Men and but few fish. has brought? my stock low again. short after the Canadians pafsed by here which was very late. two leading men with four Young men and their families arrived here from the borders of the big Lake. one of the Leaders has formerly been to Albany Fort, but of late Years with the Canadians. they brought nothing. I gave them a supply of Ammunition and Tobacco and directed them to some of the Indians here about, as they was desirous of Wintering in this country. the Cloudy day was in since they went away and informs me they are to tent with him nigh hand about the U. Basquiau Hill. I hope they will be a means of increasing the Trade at this place.
John Irvin is much better than when you left this place, but James Anderson has been able to do but little (seldom enjoying two days Health together) occasioned by a sore breast and Pains in his Joints. Having nothing more to add at present shall Conclude Wishing the greatest Succefs to their Honors affairs. Health and Happinefs to you and all under your Command. I Remain with the greatest Respect
Sir
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
George Hudson."
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" packed upwards of 10 Thousand and a large gang of Indians on the Plantation.
The Native who was entrusted with your furrs arrived last week with 4 Bundles, which will be sent to England amounting to 174 MBeaver.
As our Honorable Employers gives us positive Orders not to engage any Servant who will not enter into Contract for 3 Years. You will please to make these terms known to those with you and not accept of any Tenders of Services for a lefs term. also the men's Names who are recalled? are-as pr List.
Wishing you every felicity and Succefs to the Honorable Company's affairs I remain
Your very Humble Servant
Joseph Colen.
PS. The Private Letters for the Inland Servants are Enclosed. I shall have all the Trading goods, Brandy &c Packed ready against your arrival at this place next Season. The Ship I expect will be dispatched tomorrow."
" Cumberland House December 18th 1787
Sir,
By the arrival of Edward Wishart, Hugh Lisk, James Davy, and John Harper Oct. 10th (from YF) I received the agreeable news of their Honors Ship arriving in due time. as also the Trading goods as Pr Invoice now sent.
I received orders from Mr Colen to forward the pacquet with the Trading goods to You with the utmost Expedtion but the latenefs of their arrival and the bad weather which followed occasioned this delay.
By the bearers, John Sebbeston, James Davey, and Hugh Bakey, I have sent 106 1/2 made Beaver. Contents as pr inclosed accounts (being all I could send by this Conveyance) which I hope you will receive safe. as Edward Wishart and Hugh Lisk denied going with the pacquet - I called Edward Wishart to know if he would go he told me - no - unlefs he was paid for it. I Replied I could not promise him a set Quantity but would use my Endeavours with Mr Tomison who I made no doubt would recompense him for his trouble: he directly said that Mr Tomison did not care if a Man lost his all if he only saved his Life, and the Companys goods. that Mr Tomison would not make any amends on saying the "
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" before this, had it not been for Mr Shaws Directions from Canada.
I have sent by the bearers the following articles of trading goods. Viz Brandy Gallons 8. Bayonets 24. Cloth Blue Corded 25 Yards. Red Corded 25 Yards. Duffle White 20. Shot Low India 56 lbs. Knives Large Roach 24. Small 24. Combs 24. Tobacco 64 and 6 four foot Guns. all of which I hope you will receive safe, as to Powder I have none to spare and not enough for this place without? pinching the Natives which I have been obliged to do all along. I had no more than 200 lbs when done with serving the men sent out for the barren ground, so that you must think my stock at present is not very large. my Tobacco is also short on account of so much of it being bad and not fit to give to Indians. my Trade at present near 5000 Made Beaver and I expect to get 1100 more. the blood Indians and the men that was with them came in in the beginning of March, but there is still some of them not come in yet, as also the Pekenow and a few of the Southward Indians. I have only 4 men out with the Indians and do not? expect them in before the middle of next month. as to your debts you must trust to providence, and what you do not get this year may be got another. as to myself I have got several small debts this year that I never expected to have got, though at the same time I must expect to lose some this. so Conclude with wishing you health and happinefs and all under your Command with Succefs to the Companys affairs and remain
Sir,
Your most Obedient
and Humble Servant
William Tomison."
" York Factory Hudsons Bay September 3rd 1787
My Dear Sir
By the arrival of the Sea horse Capt. Tunstall the 27th Instant I am enabled to forward your Letters from the Honorable Company also Extracts from the General one.
I send up Edward Wishart, Hugh Leask and John Harper with Trading goods you much wanted when at YF and the Number of Men will I hope enable you to bring down a large Quantity of furrs next Season.
Few Occurences hath happened since you left YF many Strangers have been in. the furrs already "
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" South Branch March the 4th 1788
William Tomison
{NB by the Bearers James Oman, George Short and Davey Allan.
Sir,
I embrace a second time to enquire after your good Situation of health hoping these will find you and all under your Command well. I was not intending to have wrote you 'till the Snow was off the Ground but the great necefsity for the want of goods obliged me to send sooner: if any can be spared. the Goods that required is as follows. Guns, Cloth, Tobacco, Brandy, Powder, Bayonets, Combs Ivory, Shot Low India, and a few Knives.
The Indians I have seen here run very hard upon the Liquor and my Neighbour now striving to diminish it as fast as pofsible knowing his force in that Article to be superior to mine. To be sure I cannot say that he shows any unfair ? for the Indians have their free Liberty to go where they please. I have a great many Debts out which I believe will come very badly in for which I am very sorry. for what made me trust so? because the greater part used to be our former Debtors.
On the first Instant arrived from the Southward some of the Man'to'apow & Anuch'a'sheep'pan'an Indians with what received from them I have to the amount of 3700 in made Beaver. I really think they will be good many Indians here in the Spring. If in case I could have wherewith to supply them but the Standing Governor and the Fish is fairly gone off from this. I have nothing more to relate but Conclude Wishing you health and happinefs and all under Your Command with Prosperity to the Companys affairs and so remain
Sir
Your most Obedient and
Humble Servant
William Walker."
" Manchester House March 16th 1788
Mr William Walker
Sir
By the arrival of James Oman, George Short and David Allen on the fourteenth Instant I received your agreeable Letter dated the fourth which gave me great pleasure to hear that you, and all under your direction enjoy a state of good health which happinefs thank god attends us all here. John Flat excepted, who still continues bad of the Yellow Jaundice. I must acknowledge Mr Robinson is far from being a usefull man in his Profefsion, as he neither give us Medicines nor Directions how to use what little he does give. John Flatt would have been buried "
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" December 26th 1787
Mr William Walker
Sir.
On the Sixth Instant yours of the 27th of November came safe to hand, which gave me great pleasure to hear of your welfare, as also those under your direction.
As to the trade at this place it is very inconsiderable as yet, and no great prospect in the Spring. the disputes that happened between the different Tribes of Indians last Summer has done us no good. as the principal part of the trade at this place came from the blood and Pekenow Indian last year. and? this year I hear they are doing nothing in regard to killing furrs so that I am of Opinion there will be but few of them in this year. a little after my arrival I sent off 14 men to the aforementioned Indians, but have heard no account from them since.
Mr Shaw and myself did not send out any Liquor untill Mr Pangman arrived and began sending out large Quantities to all Indians he could hear of. which induced me to do the Same. but finding my Stock far Inferior to his I was Obliged to give out as I found it was doing much hurt to the Indians and prevented them from hunting. So that all parties finding it highly necefsary for the Preservation of the Natives we have agreed not to send any more Liquor out to the Plains this Season, nor any other sort of goods what ever and that the Indians is to have their free Liberty to go to any house they please, without being intercepted.
You will receive by the bearers the following Articles of trading goods. Cloth blue Corded yds 23 3/4. Red Corded 22 1/2. Red Plain 22 1/4. Pistols 8. Knives butcher 24. Large Long 24. Jack 12. files 12. Bayonets 12. Shirts Cotton 4. Check Strapt 4. Combs Horn 4. Brandy Gallons 23 1/8. all of which I hope you will receive safe. as to hatchets, I have but very few, and very bad. was it not for the Crofs Cut Saws, we would be starved for want of fire wood. Powder is also short, and a great part of is Cannon, which you know still makes it go the Shorter and not so good; whether is has been mixed in England, or in the Country I am not to determine; but for Certain it hurts us much. the Tobacco is so bad I am ashamed to offer it to an Indian; and several other articles that I need not mention here. so Conclude with wishing Succefs to the Companys affairs; health and happinefs to you, and all under your direction; and Remain
Sir
Your most humble Servant
William Tomison."
" South Branch November 27th 1787
Mr Tomison
Sir
As soon as Opportunity could offer I take the pleasure to enquire after your good state of health, hoping these will find you and all under your Command well.
By the Bearers James Oman James Morwick and George Short in Letter I have laid down my great necefsity for the want of goods. the Articles is as follows Viz. Brandy, Cloth, Hatchets, Bayonets, Files and Pistols. if you could spare any. Also I am rather doubtful that the Powder and Knives will be short in case any should reside here next Summer. at this time I have about 2000 Made Beaver but very bad. I have nothing more to add but conclude wishing properity to the Companys Affairs and so remain Sir
Your most Obedient and
Humble Servant
William Walker."
[I think it's the end but I'm not sure it's the end because it doesn't say "the end"]
B.121/a/2
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