This is a virtually complete transcription of the Manchester House Journal of William Walker 1789-90 by Alex Nicol.



" Journal of Remarks at South Branch 1789"
[Cover]


" By William Walker at The South Branch House"



May 26 1789
" Tuesday Wind Sly amiddling stiff breeze Clear weather and very warm. The last of the Canoes set off on their Pafsage down. In all 8 Canoes with 88 bundles Pimmecon &c. Also the Indians that arrived on Sunday Last went away."

May 27
" Wednesday Wind NE avery strong breeze with Thunder & Lightning and alittle Rain. The men at the house setting some Pottatoes and one attending horse."

May 28
" Thursday Wind Northerly avery strong breeze Clear weather. Myself and 2 Men employed working in the Garden. and one man pitched away with my hunter to take Care of my Horse."

May 29
" Friday Wind and Wea. much the same as yesterday. The 2 men at the House and myself employed as before."

May 30
" Saturday Wind NE blowed very hard. The men and myself sowing some Garden Seeds also received alittle fresh meat from my hunters."

May 31
" Sunday Wind SE amiddling breeze Clear warm weather."

June 1 1789
" Monday Wind Westerly amiddling breeze fine Wea. the whole day and than Cloudy with alittle. Two men and myself attending the house &c."

June 2
" Tuesday Wind variable with Showers of Rain the whole day."

June 3
" Wednesday Wind SbW amoderate breeze Sometimes Cloudy with alittle Rain other times Clear hot Sultry weather. The men employed Cleaning the Sticks and Roots out of the Garden. The water in the River is raised above 9 feet parpendicular Since the Canoes went away."

June 4
" Thursday Wind SE amoderate breeze the fore part of the day hot and Clear the after part Cloudy with Thunder and Rain. Rec'd a little Bufalo's meat from the Hunters."

June 5
" Friday Wind Westerly amoderate breeze Clear hot Sultry wea. Towards Evening alittle Rain. The men employed Digging alittle in the Garden."

June 6
" Saturday Wind Wly amoderate breeze Clear hot sultry Wea. The water falling off again. The Bufalo thats been driving? down this 4 days I am Sure amounts to some Thousand, owing to the Sevearnefs of the Winter."

June 7
" Sunday Wind variable hot sultry weather and Clear till noon than Cloudy with Rain."

June 8
" Monday Wind SW amiddling breeze Clear Wea. The men at the house employed digging alittle in the Garden."

June 9
" Tuesday Wind Wly amiddling breeze very hot wea: The men about their sundry Duties about the house."

June 10
" Wednesday Wind variable Clear fine wea. The men employed about their Sundry Duties about the house."

June 11
" Thursday Wind Northerly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. till Evening than alittle Rain. Rec'd alittle meat from my hunters."

June 12
" Friday Wind NE Cloudy wea. with amiddling breeze."

June 13
" Saturday Wind Easterly amoderate breeze with alittle Small Rain the whole day."

June 14
" Sunday Wind SE Wea. as before."

June 15
" Monday Wind Variable Clear fine weather. The men employed about Sundry Duties about the House."

June 16
" Tuesday Wind Westerly amiddling breeze Clear Weather. The men employed as before."

June 17
" Wednesday Wind Variable Clear hot sultry Wea. The men employed about odd Jobbs about the house."

June 18
" Thursday Wind Variable till Evening than Cloudy with Thunder & Lightning with the wind South avery strong breeze. The men employed Cleaning the Yard."

June 19
" Friday Wind SE avery hard gale with Thund. Lightnings and Rain."

June 20
" Saturday Wind variable Clear Weather but blowed very hard at times. The men weeding the Garden."

June 21
" Sunday Wind variable Clear hot Sultry Wea."

June 22
" Monday Wind Nly amoderate breeze Clear hot Sultry weather. The men employed Ho'ing the Tatoes also arrived my Man thats Tent'g out with the Hunters and Some of themselves with Birchrinde and some dried Provisions."

June 23
" Tuesday Wind Easterly amiddling breeze Clear warm Weather. My man and the Indians went away again."

June 24
" Wednesday Wind SE amiddling breeze Clear Wea. The men at the house employed at sundry Duties."

June 25
" Thursday Wind Westerly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men employed Cleaning the Rubbish out of the Garden."

June 26
" Friday Wind variable with Thunder & Rain. at Noon arrived 2 Indian young men with afew Skins traded and went away."

June 27
" Saturday Wind SE amoderate breeze Clear wea. with plenty of the troublesome fly called the Mufskato."

June 28
" Sunday Wind Ely amoderate with Rain the whole day ageat flush of water in the River."

June 29
" Monday Wind Easterly a moderate breeze Clear Wea. The men employed digging in the Garden."

June 30
" Tuesday Wind Wly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men employed as before."

July 1 1789
" Wednesday Wind & Weather the same. The men employed in the Garden Ho'ing the Tatoes."

July 2
" Thursday Wind and Wea. as before. The men employed as yesterday."

July 3
" Friday Wind Sly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men at the House employed at their Sundry Duties also Rec'd alittle Red Deer's meat."

July 4
" Saturday Wind SE amiddling stiff breeze Clear hot sultry wea. The men employed as before."

July 5
" Sunday Wind variable with Thunder Lightnings and Rain the whole day."

July 6
" Monday Wind Easterly amiddling breeze Cloudy Weather with alittle Rain in the fore part of the day. The men and myself employed Transplanting Cabbage &c."

July 7
" Tuesday Wind Northerly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men employed digging in the Garden."

July 8
" Wednesday Wind Easterly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men employed mending the Wooden Canoe &c. At noon arrived one Stone Indian for Tobacco but I had not any to give him only a Smoak to welcome him to the house as I may do to any other Indian that comes to see Us."

July 9
" Thursday Wind SE Cloudy wea. at times. The men Digging alittle ground from the house? for Planting Turnips."

July 10
" Friday Wind Variable Cloudy at times. employed two working in the Garden."

July 11
" Saturday Wind Nly amiddling stiff breeze Clear Weather. The men employed at Sundry Duty."

July 12
" Sunday Wind much the same but moderate and Cloudy. Received alittle fresh Red Deer's meat from the Wolf. The water very high in the River."

July 13
" Monday Wind Sly fine Weather. The men Employed Transplanting afew Cabbage."

July 14
" Tuesday Wind Wly amoderate breeze Clear hot sultry weather. The men employed at their Sundry Duties."

July 15
" Wednesday Wind variable Cloudy hot sultry wea. till noon than Thunder Light'g and Rain. After the Rain Ceased They fell upon the Earth a great bundance of small Insect resembling the Maggot about 1/2 an Inch in Length."

July 16
" Thursday Wind Wly amiddling breeze Clear Weather. The men employed planting Cabbage in the Garden."

July 17
" Friday Wind Wly amiddling breeze Clear Wea. The men employed in the Garden &c. Also rec'd 1 small Buck red Deer & Skin from the Wolf."

July 18
" Saturday Wind Westerly amoderate breeze Clear hot sultry weather. The men cleaning the Yard."

July 19
" Sunday Wind variable hot sultry wea. In the Evening arrived one of my Men with the Indians I employed in hunting in Birchrinde &c. In the Evening agreat deal of Thunder Lightnings and Rain."

July 20
" Monday Wind Wly amiddling breeze Clear hot Sultry wea. The men attending Horse &c."

July 21
" Tuesday Wind Northerly amoderate breeze Clear hot wea. The Indians that brougt me the Birchrinde went away, Accompanied by 2 of my Men and Horse to bring me in another Trip if pofsiable to be gotten."

July 22
" Wednesday Wind Variable Cloudy weather. One man and myself taking Care of the house &c."

July 23
" Thursday Wind WbS amiddling breeze with Thunder and alittle Rain."

July 24
" Friday Wind Northerly amoderate breeze Clear fine Weather. At noon arrived Some Stone Indians with Some Provisions."

July 25
" Saturday Wind variable Cloudy weather. Ten Tents of Stone Indians that arrived yesterday went away but very little they would Trade with me becuse I had no Ammunition and Tobacco to give them. They would have traded here had I had the above mentioned Articles to have given them. My man and me had anough to do to take Care of the House."

July 26
" Sunday Wind variable with Thunder Lightnings and agreat Rain."

July 27
" Monday Wind Northerly with Thunder Lightnings and Rain. Myself kild a few goldeyed Fish."

July 28
" Tuesday Wind NE amiddling breeze Cloudy weather with alittle Rain. kild Some fish today."

July 29
" Wednesday Wind Sly amoderate breeze Clear hot Sultry Weather. One man and myself attend'g the house. also killed a few Fish."

July 30
" Thursday Wind & Weather the same as yesterd'y."

July 31
" Friday Wind SW amoderate breeze Clear hot Sultry weather. 6 Tents of Stone Indians arrived with Some Provisions which my Neighbour Received for Ammunition and Tobacco."

Aug. 1 1789
" Saturday Wind SW amiddling breeze Clear wea. The stone Indians went away."

Aug. 2
" Sunday Wind Wly amiddling breeze Clear Wea. till Evening than Rain. The hunters and my two Men arrived with some Birchrinde and alittle Provisions."

Aug. 3
" Monday Wind variable Cloudy Weather with alittle Rain. My men attending horse &c. kild Some gold Eyed Fish."

Aug. 4
" Tuesday Wind NW Cloudy weather with a little Rain. The men employed as before."

Aug. 5
" Wednesday Wind Ely amoderate breeze Clear Weather. The men attending horse and fishing."

Aug. 6
" Thursday Wind Easterly amiddling breeze Clear Weather. The men attending horse & fishing."

Aug. 7
" Friday Wind NE amiddling strong breeze rimey Weather the whole day."

Aug. 8
" Saturday Wind NE amoderate breeze Cloudy Wea. with alittle Rain. Sent my hunters away accompanied by two men & Horse to bring meat when kill'd."

Aug. 9
" Sunday Wind NW Wea. much the Same."

Aug. 10
" Monday Wind Northerly amiddling breeze Clear Weather. The men and Hunters returned without any Succefs of seeing any Bufalo."

Aug. 11
" Tuesday Wind NW amiddling breeze Cloudy Wea. The men employed at their sundry Duties."

Aug. 12
" Wednesday Wind Nly amoderate breeze Clear Weather. The men employed attending horse and fishing. Angled agreat many. In the Evening arrived 3 Sd Indians with Some Skins But I could not get any from them for I had not what they wanted. also Rec'd alittle Bufalo's meat from some of my hunters."

Aug. 13
" Thursday Wind variable Cloudy Weather with Rain. Rec'd some Bufalo's meat from the Wolf."

Aug. 14
" Friday Wind Easterly amoderate breeze with Rain the whole day."

Aug. 15
" Saturday Wind variable Clear fine weather. Sent my hunters away also one man with Horse to bring in meat when killed."

Aug. 16
" Sunday Wind Nly amoderate breeze Clear Weather."

Aug. 17
" Monday Wind variable Clear fine weather. Two men and me Making a Scellar."

Aug. 18
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as before. The men and me employed as before. Also Rec'd alittle fresh meat from my Hunters."

Aug. 19
" Wednesday Wind Westerly amoderate breeze Clear hot Wea. finnished the Scellar in the Victualing Shed for to put the Birchrinde in."

Aug. 20
" Thursday Wind Westerly amiddling breeze Clear weather. Rec'd Some fresh red Deers meat from my Hunters. The men and Myself employed making another Scellar to put Vegiatables &c in."

Aug. 21
" Friday Wind Sly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men employed about sundry Duties."

Aug. 22
" Saturday Wind NE amiddling breeze hot sultry wea. The men employed cutting firewood."

Aug. 23
" Sunday Wind Sly a moderate breeze fine Weather."

Aug. 24
" Monday Wind Sly amiddling breeze Clear Wea. The men employed making Soap."

Aug. 25
" Tuesday Wind variable Clear fine Weather. The men employed as before."

Aug. 26
" Wednesday Wind NE amiddling breeze Clear fine Weather. The men Cutting alittle Grafs."

Aug. 27
" Thursday wind Wly amoderate breeze fine Wea. The men and me building the Cookroom Chymney."

Aug. 28
" Friday Wind & Weather the Same as Yesterday. The men and me employed building the Cookroom Chymney. Received Some fresh Red Deer's meat from my Hunters by Davey Narston who his keeping my Horse."

Aug. 29
" Saturday Wind SW amiddling stiff breeze Clear fine weather. The men and Myself employed as before. My hunters went away back to their Tents again."

Aug. 30
" Sunday Wind variable fine Calm clear Weather."

Aug. 31
" Monday Wind Sly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men and me employed plastering the House."

Sept. 1 1789
" Tuesday Wind and Weather the Same as yesterday. The men and me employed as before."

Sept. 2
" Wednesday Wind Wly amiddling breeze Clear Weather. The men employed as before."

Sept. 3
" Thursday Sly Wind amiddling breeze Clear weather. The men employed repairing the house &c. Also rec'd Some fresh Moose meat from my Hunters."

Sept. 4
" Friday Wind SW amiddling breeze Clear Wea. The men employed repairing the hous's."

Sept. 5
" Saturday Wind Westerly avery stiff breeze Clear Weather. The men and me employed as before."

Sept. 6
" Sunday Wind Wly avery stiff gale Clear Wea."

Sept. 7
" Monday Wind Northerly avery stiff breeze Cloudy Wea. with afew Drops of Rain. The men employed Plastering the hous's with Mud."

Sept. 8
" Tuesday Wind Variable fine Clear Weather. The men employed as before. also Rec'd alittle fresh Buffalo meat from Indians."

Sept. 9
" Wednesday Wind Westerly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men employed Cleaning the Yard."

Sept. 10
" Thursday Wind WbN amiddling breeze with alittle Rain. The men repairing their Chymney."

Sept. 11
" Friday Wind Nly amiddling breeze Cloudy Wea. with afew Drops of Rain. The men employed as before."

Sept. 12
" Saturday Wind NE amiddling strong breeze Cloudy Weather with Rain. The men employed as before."

Sept. 13
" Sunday Wind Nly amiddling breeze with Small Showers of Rain. Davey Narsten and 4 young Indians Arrived with my Horse and Some dried Provisions. and in coming in had the Mifsfortune to lose 2 young Horse."

Sept. 14
" Monday Wind Varible Clear and middling cold wea. Sent Davey Narsten and one young Indian to go in search of the 2 horse. My men 2 employed mudding the seam's of the hous's. Also Rec'd alittle Buffalo meat from Indians."

Sept. 15
" Tuesday Wind NE amiddling breeze Clear wea. Davey Narsten returned with the 2 lost horse. also sent One Indian and one man with Horse ahunting Buffalo's"

Sept. 16
" Wednesday Wind Variable Clear fine Wea. The men employed fetching white mud also in the Evening arrived Mr James Tate one Canoe all safe, and Expects the rest will arrive tomorrow."

Sept. 17
" Thursday Wind Easterly amoderate breeze Clear Weather: The rest of our men and Cargoes arrived all safe and in good Condition. Also 5 Canadians who came from below according to Promises to Mr William Tomison the Last year by Letter. At this time it puts me to a stand for I am not at Liberty to agree them till I hear from below and indeed I have but avery indifferent Opinion of the best of them for our Service. neither can I see any Clivernefs in them above others. and in time undoubtedly it will be known. The above person's are in expectations of 9 more arriving and a Leading man amongst them very soon: Undoubtedly some of their Trader's and pettey Officers, Clarks &c may be good honest Servant. but for the Common Labouring men I think but little off. For I have seen and heard some Dirty tricks they play to some of their Employers at times.
But as the above men is void of every necefsary of Life I take upon Myself to give them alittle Supply for the Honour of my Masters employ which I can badly Spair. James Tate accompanied by two of my Men and Horse went to the other River to meet the Canoes and to bring aLittle Goods that was wanted."

Sept. 18
" Friday Wind Northerly fine Clear Weather. Myself employed fitting out the Canadian's, and open'g Some of the Packages found all to Answer the Contents Rec'd pr Invoice."

Sept. 19
" Saturday Wind Variable Clear fine weather. The two men that I sent to the other River returned with the Goods I sent for."

Sept. 20
" Sunday Wind Westerly amoderate breeze fine Wea."

" A copy of a Letter
S. Branch house Sept. 20th 1789
Mr Malchom Rofs
Sir, Your favour came safe to hand the 16th of September by the Bearer James Tate in Charge and on the 17th the whole arrived all safe and good Condition. The Canadians also.
So I appointed the above person to take Charge of Manchester house till further Orders from the Honble Board Knowing him to be the properest person and the most steady.
Mr Rofs I would have sent you a Supply of Provisions had I any, but I have not made any this Summer only some Birchrinde for building Canoes. It could not be expected I could make Provisions and keep my men in the Sum. upon such alittle Supply and now the Stoney Indians does not make any Provisions as usual for want of Horse.
I have sent you as much as may build 2 Canoes if required. also 100 lbs fat all I can Spair for your disposal. and Tracking Lines that came up I have sent them: James flat Sen. and Flat Jun. is the two persons I have sent down. I have nothing more to add, but Conclude wishing Succefs to the Companys Affairs, Health and happinefs attend you and all Under your Direction.
And so remain
Sir
Your most Obedient
& humble Servant
Will. Walker."

Sept. 21
" Monday Wind NE amiddling breeze Clear Wea. The men employed some getting Hatchets Helves, and 3 sent away with Horse to fetch meat. also one Canoe Embarked for Cumberland house."

Sept. 22
" Tuesday Wind Variable Cloudy Weather with alittle Rain. The men employed getting their Hatchets in Trim for Cutting the winters fireing &c."

Sept. 23
" Wednesday Wind Wly amoderate breeze Cloudy Wea. with alittle Rain Towards Evening. The men employed Cutting firewood, also the men with the Horse returned with the most part of 2 Cows."

Sept. 24
" Thursday Wind NE amoderate breeze Cloudy wea. with alittle Rain. Sent five men about 20 miles down the River to make awooden Canoe. The rest Cutting firewood, also one man attend'g horse."

Sept. 25
" Friday Wind Variable rain the whole day."

Sept. 26
" Saturday Wind Variable Cloudy weather with alittle Rain. The men employed Cutting firewood. At noon arrived Some S'd Indians with afew Skins and Some Provisions."

Sept. 27
" Sunday Wind Northerly amoderate breeze Clear Weather."

Sept. 28
" Monday Wind Easterly amiddling stiff breezeCloudy Wea. with Showers of Rain. Sent 9 men with women to get roots for forwarding the Canoe building in the Spring. Also one man Peter Sibesten Tayloring."

Sept. 29
" Tuesday Wind NE Weather much the same. The Taylor and me only at the house."

Sept. 30
" Wednesday Wind Wly amiddling breeze Clear with amiddling frost in the night. The men that was getting Roots, also those that went for the wooden Canoe returned. Myself Traded afew Skins from the Indians."

Oct. 1 1789
" Thursday Wind Westerly amoderate breeze Clear fine soft weather; The men at the house employed at their Sundry Duties. Except three whom I sent with Horse to fetch Bufalo meat. Rec'd 1 Red Deer from Indians & 6 Ducks."

Oct. 2
" Friday Wind Variable fine weather. The men at the house employed Cutting firewood. James Sanderson finnishing the wooden Canoe and Peter Sibesten Tayloring."

Oct. 3
" Saturday Wind Wly amoderate breeze Clear fine Weather. The men employed as before; also traded Some furrs &c from Indians for Liquor. at night arrived a S'd Indian for alittle Supply of Ammunition &c for nothing."

Oct. 4
" Sunday Wind Westerly avery warm fine day. Arrived one Indian for a little Supply."

Oct. 5
" Monday Wind Sly amoderate breeze Clear Weather. The men employed cutting firewood. James Sanderson cleaning Guns, Peter Sibesten Tayloring and one man attending horse also gave a little debt to Indians."

Oct. 6
" Tuesday Wind & Weather the same as before. The men employed as Yesterday. also Trusted little Debt to Indians."

Oct. 7
" Wednesday Wind Sly very fine Weather. The men employed as before. Myself trusted Some Debt and they Pitched away."

Oct. 8
" Thursday Wind Easterly amoderate breeze Clear fine weather. The men employed cutting firewood &c. also afew S'd Indians that usual to Trade here brought afew bad Skins but I could not refuse them or else undoubtedly I would not get their good when killed in due Season."

Oct. 9
" Friday Wind Easterly amiddling breeze Clear fine wea. At noon arrived two Canadian men for our service but them I could not employ untill I heard from below, knowing myself not at Liberty to employ any Servant unlefs I had your Honour's Order's upon the Occasion. and then I will act according to your Desir's in every particular as far as in my Power. The men employ'd Cutting firewood &c and myself Trad'g afew Skins with Indians."

" A copy of a Letter
Cumberland house dated Sept. 20th 1789
Mr William Walker,
Sir,
The Bearers are two men that arrived the 25th of July Last in the same Canoe with the 5 that Embarked hear the 5 Inst. with goods for your Settlement. They embarked from hear the 29th July and went down to the great fall to wait for Mr William Tomison with an Intent to enter into the Company's Service But being difsapointed in his not Coming and unwilling to agree with the Canadian Traders They applied to me but I would not satisfy them any ways about it which induces them to apply to you as undoubtedly you can satisfy them on that head.
I have supplied them with Tobacco Provisions and Shoes as I did the others. Thise Two was Left in the Sedar Lake to wait for the same. more that was wanting to agree with their Honours, but they was all stopped by the Candian Traders.
Sir
As I could not wait for Orders from you in fitting out the Indians for their winters quarters, I have followed the old Rules of this house. I have Trusted Debt which I hope to account for in the Spring of the year please God to spair me Life if I stay at this place. So I Conclude wishing
Sir
You and all under your Direction to proSper both Company's Affairs and the Servants
Which is with a due respect The wish of your
Most Humble and
Obedient Servant
Malchom Rofs."

Oct. 10
" Saturday Wind Variable Clear fine Wea. The men employed Cutting the winters fireing Rec'd alittle Beavers meat from Indians and Traded Some Skins."

Oct. 11
" Sunday Wind Wly Weather as before. At noon arrived some Stone Indians with Some Provisions; also they traded some Liquor."

Oct. 12
" Monday Wind Variable fine soft weather but Cloudy; at noon arrived 2 Tents of S'd and 4 Tents of Stone Indians with furrs and Provisions. all the Indians drunk. The Men employed taking up Tatoes and minding the house."

Oct. 13
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as before. The men employed as yesterday. the Indians still Drinking, but the Stone Indians traded & Pitched away. But the aforementioned would Drink and if they could get it by any means would die by it. when I first know'd this Country it was not so. But the Canadians bring such great Quantities in of their double difstill'd Spirits and it goes so far that it makes them Difstracted, Indolent for killing furrs. and heavy upon that Article. This day and Night I have denighed any know'g my stock to be but small, and their furrs being but bad, and so they went to the other house and Traded. To be sure Gent. the Chief of your Trading Articles is very Good, but your Knives in General is very bad, besides our Neighbours. both weak in their Blades and bad stuff in their Handles. They are worse this year then ever I saw them before. The Indians when they get them they are oblige to whip them round with a peice of Line."

Oct. 14
" Wednesday Wind Northerly amiddling breeze Cloudy Wea. The men employed cutting firewood &c. This day arrived the Canadian Traders 5 Canoes. The Indians all Drunk. I am informed that they have made a Settlement between Cumberland House and this on purpose to Cut off the Trade from both places. The Goods I have in Charge is but little so that I cannot attempt to be a neighbour to them in that place."

Oct. 15
" Thursday Wind and Weather as before. The Men employed about their Sundry Duties, The Indians still drunk. Traded afew Skins for Liquor."

Oct. 16
" Friday Wind Northerly Cloudy wea. The men employed Cutting firewood, fraught'g? Indians a Crofs, Looking for my Horse, James Sanderson Carpentering about the house and Peter Sibesten Tayloring &c. Some of the Indians getting debt and pitching away."

Oct. 17
" Saturday Wind NE amiddling breeze Cloudy wea. The men employed as before."

Oct. 18
" Sunday Wind NE amoderate breeze Cloudy Wea. with Snow at times."

Oct. 19
" Monday Wind Easterly a moderate breeze Cloudy Weather; The men employed cutting &c."

Oct. 20
" Tuesday Wind Northerly amoderate breeze Cloudy wea. The men employed as before.Also received alittle fresh meat from Indians and trusted alittle Debt."

Oct. 21
" Wednesday Wind Wly amoderate breeze fine Wea. The men employed fetching Grafs for laying up the Canoes. In the forenoon arrived 2 Canoes with the Packet from below. all hearty & well. Trusted alittle Debt to day."

Oct. 22
" Thursday Wind NE amoderate breeze Cloudy weather. One man arrived with one Red Deer from the hunter. Myself being appointed Chief Factor of your Hon. Affairs Inland I appointed Mitch'l Oman for to succeed me at the South Branch. knowing him to be the properest person to take Charge being the best acquainted with the Natives of the place.
Your Honor's Servants now a days takes great Libertys to what they used to do. When I first know'd this Country they was more under Subjection and was afraid of denighing any duty their Superior thought fit to put them to and now they think nothing of it, but will denigh with aface of brafs without it be some few of your oldest Servants that know's better (for why and what is the reason) They tell you if you dont use them well that they never will come with you again. Because I have known some of them has and afterwards been Rec'd & made much off by other Superiors at other Settlements which is away of making a good Servant a bad one. has for my part I never have desired men that was under me to work Longer then 3 or 4 hour's in the day Except when they was Occasion for it such as buildings &c. For I know their Pafsages up and Down is very hard and trying to what it is staying below, and now so many Settlements that your Honor's have in Vew their is liable to be some bribing going forward. and only to get what your Honor's think fit for to allow them according to their deserving Charrecters you may receive from their Superiors whom they are under. I would have Errected another Settlement above Manchester house this fall about 6 days March up the said River but through the Scarsity of Brazile Tobacco I was oblige to refer it till abetter opportunity. I am informed of one Mr Shaw residing their and undoubtedly will Cut off agreat many Skins from Us. If we had a house their we would be in a better place for getting Canoes which is our hiy? Aim for without them nothing can be done. If I have said any thing amifs in the above I hope Gent. You'l Excuse my Ignorance. W.W."

Oct. 23
" Friday Wind NE amoderate breeze Cloudy Wea. The men at the house employed about Sundry Duty. Sent off 3 Men to fetch My horse from the Hunters Tent, not killing me athing. I shall be oblige to turn him away and hire some other person."

Oct. 24
" Saturday Wind SE with amiddling breeze with alittle Snow. The men employed Cutting alittle firewood and Cleaning the Yard."

Oct. 25
" Sunday Wind Wly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. My men arrived with my Horse. Left my hunter having nothing to eat and I intend to send Mitchel Oman to fetch my things from him tomorrow."

Oct. 26
" Monday Wind Variable Clear fine Weather. Sent off 3 of my Men with horse to fetch meat when killed. Rec'd Some fresh meat from Indians also traded afew Skins."

Oct. 27
" Tuesday Wind SbE amoderate breeze Clear moderate wea. Sent off Mitchel Oman and 1 man to discharge my hunter for now I have hir'd him above amonth and I found he would not Answer my Demand which has intirely run hard upon my dried Provisions. The men employed in laying up Canoes."

Oct. 28
" Wednesday Wind Northerly amiddling breeze overcast weather. The men employed as before. Rec'd 2 Beaver from Indians &c. Sent James Sanderson, Merwick Edward Wishart Robt. Garrock & Davey Copeland to get Canoe wood."

Oct. 29
" Thursday Wind Sly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men at the house employed about their Sundry Duties, also one Indian arrived with afew Skins and alittle Provisions."

Oct. 30
" Friday Wind NbW amiddling stiff breeze heazy Wea. The men employed as before. The Indians that arrived Yesterday went away. This day Some Ice driving in the River."

Oct. 31
" Saturday Wind and Wea. the Same as Yesterday but much more Ice driving in the River. The men at the house employed as before: also the five men that went awood hunt'g returned."

Nov. 1 1789
" Sunday Wind NbW amoderate breeze middling fine wea. Rec'd 2 Moose and 2 Red Deer from Indians. a great deal of Ice driving in the River."

Nov. 2
" Monday Wind WbS amiddling breeze Clear wea. The men employed at their Sundry Duties at the about half past 7 in the Evening the River set fast."

Nov. 3
" Tuesday Wind Variable Cloudy Wea. The men at the house employed as before. Sent one Indian and 3 Men with horse ahunting. In the Evening arrived afew Indians with afew Skins and a little Provisions."

Nov. 4
" Wednesday Wind Sly amiddling breeze Clear Wea. but towards Evening alittle Snow. The men at the house employed as before. also 5 Men Crofsed the River upon the Ice for to go and get Canoe wood. Those before mentioned. At noon arrived Some Indians with afew Skins. also gave them alittle to Drink."

Nov. 5
" Thursday Wind NE amiddling breeze snowing Wea. The men employed about their Sundry Duties. Mitchel Oman and Myself trading with the Indians also trusting them alittle Debt and some of them Pitched away."

Nov. 6
" Friday Wind Wly amoderate breeze with alittle Snow. fitted 5 men out for the barren ground to find for themselves being but avery poor prospect of Provsisons for fitting the Canoes out in the Spring. The men at the house employed as before. also the Remainder of the Indians pitched away."

Nov. 7
" Saturday Wind Sly amoderate breeze Cloudy. The men at the house employed cleaning the Yard. also the five men that was getting woodwork returned home."

Nov. 8
" Sunday Wind Nly amoderate breeze Cloudy Wea. Rec'd the most part of 2 Red Deer from the hunter."

Nov. 9
" Monday Wind NE amiddling breeze with Snow and Drift. In the afternoon arrived 3 Stone Indians for Tobacco. Seeing my horse on their Road makes me think they have stole them away which has difsapointed me greatly; Intending to set off on my Journey the next day for Manchester house. I had been off before now but being Short of Provisions detained me longer then I was intended to have stay'd."

Nov. 10
" Tuesday Wind Nly weather as before. The men employed searching for my horse. but not any to be found."

Nov. 11
" Wednesday Wind Nly amoderate breeze Cloudy Wea. The men employed Looking for Horse but no Tidings to be heard of any; James Sanderson making? Sleds &c for my use to Manchester house."

Nov. 12
" Thursday Wind Nly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men employed about Sundry duties about the House. Mr Stayner William Folster James Johnson and Myself to set off tomorrow on my Journey for Manchester house. Left Mitchel Oman in charge at the South Branch knowing him to be the properest person, and the best acquainted with the Natives."

" By James Tate at Manchester house."

Sept. 30 1789
" Wednesday Arrived nine Canoes of Englishmen from York Factory. Men Goods &c all safe thank God for it. - Two of our men that stayed at the house all summer went along with one hunter? to hunt Provisions. Found James Gaddy and all Under his Care all well. Frosty, thick mifstly morning. Clear'd up at 8 AM continued Clear all day Wind brisk from the SE."

Oct. 1 1789
" Thursday Fine Clear morning with a Sharp frost very hot at the middle of the day afternoon Cloudy Wind SE Small Breeze. men employed about Nothing The resting themselves after their Journey. - The hunter & the 2 men arrived brought two Buffaloes with them. Two Tents of Indians Crofsed the River to hunt for the House use."

Oct. 2
" Friday Fine Clear pleasant warm day Frosty morning wind a fine breeze from the South East. The Taylors Two Allen & Alexander Flett both at work for the men going to the barren ground. The rest of the men securing their Canoes against the winter."

Oct. 3
" Saturday Hot clear fine day. Wind S.East very little no frost this morning. Taylors employed as Yesterday. Mag. Twatt employed helving Hatchets & getting wood for Canoe work. The rest of the men employed in several Duties. Two men along with an Indian man to fetch home a Buck Moose that the Indian had killed at 6 PM. Arrived 2 Indians from different parties."

Oct. 4
" Sunday Clear hot Weather Wind S.East blowed a little. - arrived James Batt & his old wife in an Indian Canoe from Cumberland house goods all safe & they both well."

Oct. 5
" Monday Fine hot day wind SE very little. Set of this morning Mag. Annel & more to get Pitch & Roots. James Davey and 4 men cutting grafs for laying up Canoes. Magnus Twatt and 9 men & 10 Horse gone to get wood work for Canoes & pitch. Gilbert Laughten & 3 more went up the River in a Canoe to fetch home birch to make Sledges. - Our Hunter and 7 more set of at 11 AM to kill Buffaloe. Taylors at work as Saturday. arrived an Indian in a Canoe brought 9 unskin'd Beaver & 3 Ducks. Crofst one Tent of Indians to the South side of the River to Hunt."

Oct. 6
" Tuesday Wind & Weather as Yesterday. Men the same as Yesterday too. The 2 Indians returned that arrived Yesterday."

Oct. 7
" Wednesday Fine morning hot Clear day wind at SE pleasant breeze; returned Magnus Annel and his gang from pitch hunting brought with him 2 unSkin'd Beaver. Caught 1 Beaver in a Trap. The Taylor as Yesterday. The rest the same. Arrived at 2 PM an Indian man in a Canoe brought 9 Parchment Beaver. an Indian arrived at 3 PM brought account that he had got 30 Rolls of Bark for Canoe work. Crofst 1 Tent of Indians at 5 PM from the South side."

Oct. 8
" Thursday Fine pleasant Weather for the time of the Considered Wind West a fine breeze. Taylors as before. The men that is now home employed in doing sundry Duties. The rest as before. Arrived Two Indians brought 2 unskin'd Beaver. 4 Canadians arrived here from the South Branch that Came along with Us from Cumberland house."

Oct. 9
" Friday Fine pleasant Weather Wind SSE a fine breeze. Returned This morning Gilbert Laughten & his gang from up the River brought with them 2 green Beaver. The men employed upon necefsary Duties. Taylor as Yesterday. The rest as before. Two Cannadians left the House that Came yesterday. The other two stayed. Crofs'd the River 6 Indian men brought only 5 Wolves. When the Indian comes with So little They are very Expensive. The Indians returned."

Oct. 10
" Saturday fine Clear Morning Afterwards thick hazy Weather strong Gale of wind from the Westward. 2 Men Asfisting Gilbert Laughten in setting up his Forge & Cleaning the Shop. The rest Cutting Grafs for Canoes. Taylors as before. The rest as since monday Last. arrived 1 Tent of Indians from up the River brought little or nothing. force? to make Preasants to the Indians as usual for Encouragement for them to bring Skins &c &c."

Oct. 11
" Sunday Frosty thick Mifsty morning afterwards cleared up & continued fine Wea. Wind N.East. returned 4 of the hunters at 11 AM brought best part of a Bull no Cow's to be seen within 40 Miles off the House. Arrived 4 Tents of Southerd Indians, brought in all only 30 Beaver & alittle Victuals. when they bring so little they are very expensive. also five rolls of Birchrinde with them traded it for Brandy and other Articles."

Oct. 12
" Monday Thick dark rain all day wind little or nothing but Variable. Crofs't 2 Tents Stone Indians at 6 AM They say that they are come from 6 Tents which his quite nigh here by their accounts, returned at 8 AM with Tobacco which they came for. Taylors as Usual. Gilbert Laughten & 1 more fixing all things in is Shop & began working? The rest doing Sundry Duties within doors. Arrived at 6 PM Peter Pangman & 1 more Canoe the other 5 Just at hand."

Oct. 13
" Tuesday Dark Cloudy day Wind NW. Sent 4 Men & Horse to fetch home Birchrinde for Canoe building 90 Miles off. Taylors as Usual. The rest Cutting Grafs & Carrying it home. Gilbert Laughten repairing an Indian Gun: The little Wolf and 4 Canadians arrived."

Oct. 14
" Wednesday Cloudy Wea. Wind NW. arrived at 8 AM Mag. Twatt & the rest with Timbers and Splinters for 3 Canoes. Gilbert Laughten repairing his house (or shop) all the rest about the House cutting and Carrying grafs. Lay'd up 5 Canoes to day."

Oct. 15
" Thursday Frosty morning & Cold raw air Wind brisk from the NW. Gilbert Laughten employed doing odd Jobs in the Smith way. Mag. Twatt making Timbers for Canoes. Taylors at work for the men. The rest Cut & Carried home Grafs to lay Canoes up with, burried 2 more Canoes."

Oct. 16
" Friday Frosty thick foggy morning afterw'd Cleared up at 9 AM & continued fine all day Wind little at WNWest. Gilbert Laughten doing several things in the Smith way. Mag. Twatt plaining Timbers for Canoes. Taylors at work for the men. - Mr Pangman has debanished? the Indians with hot firey Rum that they Came here for Liquor which I was fors't to Comply with & give them one Pint Each Incase they might come when they had got furrs. Arrived at 4 PM The Canadian called the little Wolf to receive goods for the men we had of him in our Pafsage from Hudson house to the Upper one. returned the 4 Canadians with the little Wolf that went to him again on the 13th instant. Men doing various Duties about the house. Last of the Canoes burried against winter in Order to keep them Safe. The other 5 & Last of Mr Pangman's Canoes came at night."

Oct. 17
" Saturday Frosty morning and fine pleasant Wea. Little wind North. Gilbert Laughton repairing the little Wolfs Gun that He brought Yesterday. Taylors as before. Mag. Twatt as Yesterday. The rest of the men Cutting firewood and Cleaning the Yard out. at 3 PM returned the hunter that went the 5 Inst. brought the best part of 2 Cow's no Buffalo not within 2 days of the house that is worth killing. at 4 Arrived 2 Safsew Indians brought afew Wolf's but not in Season, which I must take or I must neither expect good nor bad when in Season. Returned the little Wolf."

Oct. 18
" Sunday Cold frosty morning & continued cold all day attended with showers of Snow Wind brisk from the Northward. Traded with the Safsew Indians & they returned. at 3 PM arrived 1 Tent of Stone Indians brought a good few furrs with them but traded none this day."

Oct. 19
" Monday Very cold Frosty morning & Showers of Snow Wind Northwardly amoderate Gale. Mag. Twatt & Gilbert Laughton at their respective dutys all the rest geathering Drift wood at the Head of the Island for winters firewood. Myself Trading with the Natives that came Yesterday. Traded their furrs chiefly on Guns & iron work & I made presents to them as usual for encouragement to? them to bring their Skins here. I have asked the men several times who would go with James Gaddy to the Stoney Mountain but they all was in one mind not to go. They say that the Journey is so far off and being used badly with the Natives makes them defer going. James Gaddy would willing go if any would go along with him. I am intend to ask the men once more Weather they will go or no & no more. - returned the Natives at 4 PM that Came Yesterday after they had traded all. arrived the little Wolf that went away on the 17th to fetch his 2 Guns that the Smith had repaired. went back immediately."

Oct. 20
" Tuesday Frosty Cloudy morning but Cleared up at noon & Continued fine & serene Wind N'wardly. Smith, Carpenter as Yesterday. Men as before. Served out 17 Men Ammunition to keep them the winter in the barren Ground."

Oct. 21
" Wednesday Sharp frosty morning Ice driving in the River continued fine and serene all day Wind SE blew fresh. Smith and Carpenter as before. Taylors at work for the men. 7 men went to the Barren Ground to stay during the winter. the rest of the men as Yesterday. Sent the Hunter & 1 more to Hunt for the House. Arrived an old Woman at 4 PM with 1 unskin'd Beaver. I have with much ado prevailed upon the Men to go along with James Gaddy to the Stoney Mountain & their is 7 more by himself going. Served them out some Goods to Trade with the Natives. Likewise Some Ammunition to Hunt for themselves until the Spring."

Oct. 22
" Thursday frosty fine pleasant Wea. Wind N'wardly but little. Smith making Steels & awls out of wore out files. Carpenter as usual. Taylors as before. The rest of the men Pitching a Tent in the Yard on purpose to Cook their Victuals in During the winter. At 2 PM arrived a gang of Indians some went to the french house & the rest to our House also the Hunter and brought 1 Bull no Cow's nigh the House."

Oct. 23
" Friday Wind and Weather as Yesterday. Sent the Smith and 4 more to burn Coals for the Smiths Use. The Indians that came Yesterday when they had got nigh drunk they fell to quarrelling & one was Stabed in the Side with a Bay't & he expired immediately, and another received a Slight wound in his Brest he came down to Us this morning & we sew'd up the wound and drest it. Taylors employed as before. Carpenters as Yesterday. The rest of the men doing odd Jobs about the house. Myself trading with the Natives. Their trade was chiefly Ammunition and Iron work. opened a Keg of Liquor and 1 of Powder."

Oct. 24
" Saturday Frosty morning and Variety of winterly Weather during the day Wind SE blew fresh. All the Trades men &c employed as before. The rest Cleaning the Yard &c about the house also return'd the 4 men & Horse that went to fetch Birchrinde brought 16 Rolls but they are but small. Crofs'd an Indian man to the South Side of the River."

Oct. 25
" Sunday Fine pleasant weather Wind Westwardly blew briskly."

Oct. 26
" Monday Fine pleasant Wea. Wind Westerly blew fresh. Smith doing several Jobs in the Smith way Carpenter making Doors for? Cabbins. 8 Men making ready to go to the Stoney Mountain. The rest doing Sundry duties about the House.
When our people was away fetching Birchrinde they saw one of Mr Shaw's Men 4 days from the House & he told them that he cold go back in 3 days which from our house acrofs land is about 5 days to go the direct path. I should have sent some goods there but they being scarce & nobody to send capable I thought it prudent to defer it. If their was more Goods came up one might humble these Canada Vallians. That house will be very detrimental to our house as he is sending to all parts to get the Indians enticed Theither.
Andrew making hoops for Kegs out of Oziers? that is found in great plenty upon this Island."

Oct. 27
" Tuesday Hazy weather till noon then broke out a Storm of wind & Rain which Continued till 2 PM then afterwards dry. James Gaddy & 7 more set off to the Muddy River Indians in Order to stay during the winter. all the Tradesmen employed as before. The rest helping to Crofs the River with the Horse & their Luggage. Paid the Indians for Birchrinde."

Oct. 28
" Wednesday Fine pleasant wea. Wind SE but little. Smith and 2 more burning wood for Charcoal Carpenter & Taylors employed as before. 6 men went to the barren ground to hunt & the rest doing necefsary duties. arrived at 5 PM 1 Tent of blackfoot Indians brought agood Quantity of Wolves and Beaver but they was scarce worth picking from the Ground. for nothing. I was induced to take the Best and the other's went to the dunghil. 2 of the above men was Rigged. opened a Roll of Tobacco."

Oct. 29
" Thursday Smith & Carpenters as Yesterday. Taylor's and the rest Collecting firewood upon this Island. Traded with the Natives that came Yesterday & they returned back this morning arrived James Spence & 2 men with Horse brought with them the best part of 3 Bufalo which proved very acceptable as there being no green meat at the house."

Oct. 30
" Friday Frosty cold day Wind NWest blew fresh. Return'd James Spence and the rest that came Yesterday. The men employed Taylors as usual. Carpenter putting parchment into window's. Smith & 1 man as Yesterday and the rest Collecting firewood for the winter's use. Andrew Flatt went along with Ja. Spence to the barren ground. Will. Rich still unfit for Duty by a Violent Pain in is Side which he got about 8 days preceeding this."

Oct. 31
" Saturday Frosty cold day Wind very nigh from the NW. The River driving quite full of Ice and in Some parts it was so hard froze that we walked upon it. about 2 PM Gilbert Laughten & the other man finnish burning Charcoal., They came to the River Edge to Crofs So with much difficulty we got them over Toward Even'g and the men employed as Yesterday."

Nov. 1 1789
" Sunday Very sharp Frosty night & continued as cold as Yesterday Tho the wind being not so high and rough. The River very nigh set fast in the main Channel. at 3 PM arrived 8 Black foot Indians for Tobacco 4 went to the french house & the rest to our? house."

Nov. 2
" Monday Sharp clear pleasant wea. Little or no wind. arrived 2 Ses'ew's Indians for Tobacco. - The River fast so as to walk upon the Ice from one Side to the other. all hands employed getting firewood. At 4 PM arrived 4 men from the hunters brought the most part of 2 Bulls. No Cow's to be seen where they have yet been. which is about 12 Miles off. William Rich is well now thank God & fit for duty."

Nov. 3
" Tuesday Dark Cloudy day Wind Variable. The Indians returned that came first. & those 2 that came Yesterday for Tobacco also returned. the 4 men to the Hunter's Tent. Smith and Carpenter at their respective Duty's and the rest employed as before."

Nov. 4
" Wednesday A good quantity of snow fell this Last night, and continued till 9 AM then fair but hazy wea. Wind East but little. Carpenter and Smith employed at their Duty's Taylors the Same. The rest gethering firewood. In the afternoon one of our men killed a Doe Deer which 4 men went with Sledges and brought it home. Arrived at 4 PM 2 black foot Indians for Tobacco."

Nov. 5
" Thursday Wind NWest blew fresh Snow the whole day without any intermifsion. Smith repairing the Indians Guns. Carpenter as Yesterday. The rest Cutting firewood &c."

Nov. 6
" Friday Wind as Yesterday dark hazy Weather. The men employed at their Sundry duties as before. The Indians returned that came on the 4th Instant. At 4 PM arrived 3 men from the Hunter brought 1 Bull."

Nov. 7
" Saturday Wind Easterly blew fresh Wea. Snowy and Drift. Carpenter and Gilbert Laughton hewing wood for Gun Stocks. The rest Cutting firewood and cleaning the Yard. Returned 2 men to the hunters Tent & the other stay'd at the house. at 4 PM arrived 1 Tent of black foots brought nothing with them."

Nov. 8
" Sunday Fine clear pleasant weather Wind Variable . The Indians went away."

Nov. 9
" Monday Snowed fast all day without any Intermifsion Wind Easterly. Smith & 1 more cutting Gun Stocks. The rest cutting firewood. Mag. Twatt bad of a pain in his Breast."

Nov. 10
" Tuesday Cold day and hazy Wind NW. Men cutting firewood and Cleaning out the Yard. Smith Hewing Gun Stocks, Carpenter as Yesterday."

Nov. 11
" Wednesday Clear pleasant Wea. till 10 AM then Snowed till 2 PM then Cleared up & Continued serene wind as Yesterday. The men employed as before. The Carpenter doing odd Jobs indoor's. at 3 PM arrived 2 Men from the Hunter brought about half a Doe Deer. at 4 PM arrived the little Wolf and 3 more, but brought nothing with them."

Nov. 12
" Thursday Frosty clear sharp Wea. Smith doing necefsary Duties. Carpenter mak'g frames pr Snow Shoes. The rest of the men employed as before. The 2 men went Back to the hunters Tent."

Nov. 13
" Friday hazy Weather but sharp Wind NWest a Small breeze. The Carpenter making Shoeing for the big Sledge. Smith making big kegs? Lefs, The rest cutting firewood. The frenchmen returned to their Tent."

Nov. 14
" Saturday Various kinds of winterly Wea. Wind very cold from the NNWest blew fresh. Smith & Carpenter repairing one of the men's Cabbins. The rest employed as before. The french men's Packet came from the S. Branch bring account that our Exprefs is nigh hand."

Nov. 15
" Sunday Very Cold sharp day Wind brisk from the NWest."

Nov. 16
" Monday Clear sharp pleasant weather Wind Easterly but little. Smith and Carpenter repairing one of the Men's Cabbins. Taylors working for the Men and The rest Cutting firewood. At 3 PM arrived 2 Men from the Hunter brought the most part of a Doe Moose."

Nov. 17
" Tuesday Snow without intermifsion all day Wind NEast but little. all the men employ'd as before. save the Taylors, making Cloath's pr Leaders."

Nov. 18
" Wednesday hazy dark weather Wind SSEast. Smith at work upon the Kegs, Carpenter mak'g frames pr Snow Shoe's. Taylor's making Cloathing. The rest as before."

Nov. 19
" Thursday Dark Cloudy rainey wea. Wind Variable. The men all employed as before. Return'd the 2 Men to the hunters Tent."

Nov. 20
" Friday Dark cloudy Wea. Wind Variable from West to East. Smith repairing Guns.The others Employed as before."

Nov. 21
" Saturday Misty obscure Wea. Wind Nly. all the People as Yesterday. Save 2 only at the Pitt Saw cutting Boards."

Nov. 22
" Sunday Hazy Weather but mild for the Season Wind Variable; arrived 4 men from the barren ground. They say that there is no Bufalo to be seen."

Nov. 23
" Monday Fine pleasant Weather. Thaw'd at the middle of the day, quite Calm. Smith and the rest of them employed as before. Mr Pangman's Packet returned for the S. Branch."

Nov. 24
" Tuesday obscure Air Wind Variable in the North Quarter. The men employed 2 making Candles and the rest as before. Arrived the hunter and 1 man brought 1 Red Deer along with them. Lost 3 Horse 1 Colt & 2 Guns belonging to the Men Supposed to have been taken by the Black Foots."

Nov. 25
" Wednesday Dark Obscure Weather. Wind Northerly but Little. Smith making fire Steels. Carpenter & the rest employed as before. also returned the hunter and 1 Man to their Tent."

Nov. 26
" Thursday Dark obscure wea. The Wind Easterly. The men all Employed as before. At 2 PM arrived 3 Stone Indians for Tobacco brought about Six or 8 Skins with them. At 3 PM arrived from the South Branch Mr Walker Chief, Mr Stayner and 2 more all well thank God for it."


" By William Walker at Manchester House."


Nov. 27
" Friday Wind NE with Snow the whole day. James Tate and Myself made an overhaul of the Trading Goods Furrs &c. He has behaved with prudence in dealing with the Natives according to the Season. For as Yet their demands are great. and but little return's. At my Arrival 8 Rolls of Tobacco remaining which was as much as I could expect which is too little by half for this place and where I might find ways to send it. Traded a few Skins from the Safsew's & Stone Indians. also sent a little Tobacco to two Leading Stone Indians."

Nov. 28
" Saturday Wind Northerly Rimey Wea. The men employed Cleaning the Yard &c. Gilbert Laughten making Steels to send to the South Branch. Two men Tayloring Indian Cap's and Sleeves, also Traded afew Skins from Indians."

Nov. 29
" Sunday Wind Variable fine Weather."

Nov. 30
" Monday Wind NE amoderate breeze Rimey Wea. The men employed Gilbert Laughten mending a Gun Lock and making Steels. Two men Tayloring, Mag. Twatt & 1 man at the pit Saw and the rest hauling in firewood & Cutting it up. In the Evening arrived Sd Indian woman with afew Skins."

Dec. 1 1789
" Tuesday Wind Variable Cloudy Weather. The men employed at their Sundry duties as before. The Indian woman that arrived last Evening traded and went away. No Animals being nigh hand we are poorly off for Provisions."

Dec. 2
" Wednesday Wind NW amiddling stiff breeze Clear Wea. The men employed haul'g firewood with Horse and Cutting it up. Gilbert Laughten work'g at the forge. Mag. Twatt Carpentering and Two Tayloring also In the Evening arrived a Stone Indian for Tobacco."

Dec. 3
" Thursday Wind NE amoderate breeze Clear fine Wea. The men employed as before. In the Evening arrived aman from the hunters Tent with the new to fetch Moose meat."

Dec. 4
" Friday Wind Northerly amoderate breeze Clear Wea. 4 Men with dogs and Sledges went for meat from the Hunter's Tent. The rest employed as before, also In the Evening arrived a Young Indian for Tobacco and informed me that they was to arrive tomorrow."

Dec. 5
" Saturday Wind Variable Cloudy Wea. with Snow in the Evening. The Sd Indians that sent for Tobacco arrived with afew Skins. The men employed cutting firewood and Cleaning the Yard. Gilbert Laughten and Mag. Twatt working at the Forge. Two men Tayloring. also the men that went for meat returned."

Dec. 6
" Sunday Wind SE amoderate breeze fine Clear Wea. Cakes and Tea for Breekfast."

Dec. 7
" Monday Wind SE amoderate breeze overcast Wea. James Tate and 3 who accompanied him Pitched away hunting to procure some and Beat meat. The men at the House employed about their Sundry Duties."

Dec. 8
" Tuesday Wind NE amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men employed cutting firewood &c. the Trades people working at their different businef's. The Sd Indians that arrived on the 5th went away, also this day arrived Some Safsew ones. Traded Some Liquor and got Drunk."

Dec. 9
" Wednesday Wind Easterly amoderate breeze with Snow. This day the Safsew's traded but I never saw such hard dealer's Since I have been in the Country. They had the full Stand'd from me and then seemingly not well satisfied. In the Evening arrived 4 Black foots Indians. The men employed as before."

Dec. 10
" Thursday Wind SE amoderate breeze Cloudy Wea. This morning the Safsew's went away also the 2 Black foots that came for Tobacco. The men employed as before."

Dec. 11
" Friday Wind Easterly amiddling breeze Clear wea. Sent off 3 Men with a Packet for the Sth? Branch house. The men at the House employed as before."

" A copy of a Letter dated December 11th 1789
Mitch'l Oman
Ater a Journey of 13 days We arrived safe at the upper Settlement where I found all well and in good condition but in a poor situation for Provisions worse than what I left the South Branch in at my Departure that is allowing the Vegetables you have from the produce of the Garden there. I have sent down the following Persons Will. Folster, James Johnston and Peter Fiddler to be writer to Mitch'l Oman.
The Summer's Trade at this place was about 600 and James Tate about 700 made Beaver. After the Arrival of James Tate he procured as much Bark as is Sufficient for building 2 Canoes. I informed they might have had aplenty in the Summer if they had not been two Indolent that is in not obeying who was Left in Charge &c indeed their is agreat many of your Honor's Servants that takes those Liberty's.
At my Arrival here their was no more than 8 Rolls of Tobacco which I am certain will never be sufficient for to see out the Spring Trade. as for any other goods that I can supply you with you may be sure I will send you or else bring it Myself in the Spring as soon as I think we can follow the Ice. Take what care you can of the Expenditure of you Tobacco in particular. I shall expect you'l Slip no oppertunity of Letting me know every particular. Since my Arrival here I am informed of Mr Shaw having a Settlement about 6 days Journey to the Northward of Us but through the deficiency of the above Article I am not able to be a Neighbour of his.
I have sent you down the following Articles, 40 Fire Steels, 4 Chalk Lines, 1 Pad Lock, 1 Adz, 1 Plane iron & some Rivets &c. Also do what you can in getting some Timber for building's, and so I conclude having no other perticular's to relate but wishing profsperity to their Honor's Affairs with every felicity to attend you and so remain
Your friend and well wisher
William Walker."

Dec. 12
" Saturday Wind Variable fine Clear Wea. The men employed cutting fireood & Cleaning the Yard. At noon arrived one black foot Leader and his family brought afew Skins & some Provisions."

Dec. 13
" Sunday Wind SE amoderate breeze Clear fine wea. Mr Stayner and Myself trading with the Black foots, also In the Evening arrived 1 Stone Indian man and his family with afew Skins and a little Provision's."

Dec. 14
" Monday SE wind amoderate breeze fine wea. The men employed some Cutting firewood, one man Tayloring Mag. Twatt mak'g Sledges, Gilbert Laughten Stocking a Gun. Mr Stayner & myself Trading with the Stone Indians."

Dec. 15
" Tuesday Wind Variable Clear fine weather till Evening than Cloudy. The men employed as before. The Stone Indians pitched away seemingly well satisfied."

Dec. 16
" Wednesday Wind Northerly amoderate breeze Clear fine Wea. The Stone Indian that went away arrived again meeting another one going in to the french house he got afew Skins from him Traded them and went away immediately. The men employed at their Sundry Duty's."

Dec. 17
" Thursday Wind Nly amoderate breeze Rimey Cold wea. The men employed as before. Towards Evening arrived one man from the Hunter Tent with an order to fetch meat."

Dec. 18
" Friday Wind NE avery stiff breeze with Snow the whole day."

Dec. 19
" Saturday Wind SE amoderate breeze fine wea. Sent 5 men to fetch meat. The rest at the house Cleaning the Yard &c."

Dec. 20
" Sunday Wind Variable fine Clear Weather. The men that went for meat returned with 5 Sled Load's."

Dec. 21
" Monday Wind Variable but middling sharp. Sent 3 men away for meat with 5 Sledges to the Hunters Tent. The rest at home employ'd about their Sundry Duties."

Dec. 22
" Tuesday Wind Sly amoderate breeze Clear wea. The men at the house employed as before also the men that went for meat returned and at noon arrived 2 men with Horse from James Tates Tent which brought to the Value of three good Cow's."

Dec. 23
" Wednesday Wind & Wea. the same as Yesterday. The 2 men that arrived with some Cow's meat returned. also the men at the house employed as before: At noon arrived our hunter being no Bufalo where he was ahunting before so that when he gets a Drink he is agoing to Pitch to them."

Dec. 24
" Thursday Wind Variable Clear fine wea. The men at the house employed cutting firewood &c."

Dec. 25
" Friday Wind & Weather as Yesterday. had Cakes and Chocolate for Breackfast also gave my men a Dram to Drink your Honor's Health's."

Dec. 26
" Saturday Wind Variable Clear fine Wea. My hunter Pitched away This Evening I gave my Men their half pints."

Dec. 27
" Sunday Wind & Weather as before. Sent 4 men to reside at the hunters Tent to procure what meat may be killed. In the Evening arrived 1 Safsew Indian with 9 Skins."

Dec. 28
" Monday Wind Nly amoderate breeze overcast weather. Sent 4 men away to get Snow Shoe frames and the rest hauling drift wood upon horse; The Safsew's that arrived YesterEve Traded & went away."

Dec. 29
" Tuesday Wins SE amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men at the house employed cutting firewood &c."

Dec. 30
" Wednesday Wind Variable Clear fine Wea. The men that went for Snow Shoe frames & Sled wood returned. also sent 4 Men with 5 Horse and 4 Dog's for 3 Cow's from the hunters Tent. and the men at the house cutting a little firewood."

Dec. 31
" Thursday Wind NW amiddling stiff breeze with Snow & drift. The men that went for meat returned and the rest Cleaning the Yard."

Jan. 1 1790
" Friday Wind Nly amiddling breeze Clear Wea. The men making alittle merry. Gave the a Quart a Mefs to night."

Jan. 2
" Saturday Wind NW amiddling breeze Clear Weather. The men employed at their Sundry Duties. also in the Evening arrived 2 men from the barren ground. that was fend'g themselves."

Jan. 3
" Sunday Wind Nly amoderate breeze Clear wea. One of the men that arrived Yester Eve returned to his Tent. Mr Stayner who accompanied him."

Jan. 4
" Monday Wind Variable Clear sharp wea. The men at the House employed haul'g firewood upon 2 Horse &c. also 1 Sd Indian arrived for Tobacco and Ammunition also brought afew Lines from my hunters Tent with an Order to fetch meat."

Jan. 5
" Tuesday Wind NW amoderate breeze Clear Wea. 4 men went for meat. The Sd Indian that arrived for Tobacco &c went away. The men at the Cutting firewood &c &c."

Jan. 6
" Wednesday Wind NW overcast Wea. amiddling breeze. The men at the house employed about their Sundry Duty's. In the Evening arrived Mr Stayner and some of the barren grounder's that was out Traping & fending themselves. I received from James Tate at this Time 200 lbs Beatmeat and fat but little. Served out some of the men to Continue in the barren ground as before; also to procure for my Use what they was able to get."

Jan. 7
" Thursday Wind NE avery stiff breeze with Snow and Drift the whole day. This morning arrived afew Stone Indians for Tobacco & in about an hour afterwards they arrived with afew Skins. 4 men went away for meat."

Jan. 8
" Friday Wind Northerly with alittle Snow & drift the whole day. James Tate and 1 man went away for their own Tent. The rest could not find their Horse, till it was too late. One man and Myself Trading with the Stone Indians that came Yesterday."

Jan. 9
" Saturday Wind NW amoderate breeze Clear wea. The rest of the men that came from the barren ground returned to their Tents. Mr Stayner's desire to accompany them. so he went away with them. I ordered 3 men to return home to afsist in working as their being but few at home to do the duty that required. also the Stone Indian's Pitched away. The men at the house employed cleaning the Yard, also the men that went away for meat on Thursday returned, and with the News, more Cow's meat to fetch."

Jan. 10
" Sunday Wind Variable Cloudy wea. The 3 men I sent for to return home arrived. also 1 man from James Tate with alittle hard fat."

Jan. 11
" Monday Wind Northerly amiddling stiff breeze with alittle Snow & Drift. The latter part of the day Clear 4 men went for meat. Gilbert Laughten overhauling Guns. Mag. Twatt Carpentering & the rest hauling home some firewood upon 2 Horse &c."

Jan. 12
" Tuesday Wind NbW amiddling breeze fine Weather. The men at the house employed Cutting firewood and the rest of the Trades men as before. The flesh fetchers returned & with the news that there was 3 more Cow's to fetch."

Jan. 13
" Wednesday Wind Variable Cloudy with alittle snow. The men employed as before. Sent 4 men with dogs and Sleds to fetch home 3 Cows and about 7 PM they returned."

Jan. 14
" Thursday Wind Easterly amoderate breeze with alittle Snow. The men employed about their Sundry Duty's: At noon arrived 2 Canadian Men from our house at the Sth Branch with a Packet."

" A copy of a Letter
Sth Branch house 28th December 1789
Mr Will. Walker
Sir,
By the Arrival of Will. Folster, James Johnston & Peter Fiddler I received your kind and agreable Letter on the 21st: dated the 11th of December where I found you and all under your Direction well. - We all experience a good state of health thank God for it. I received all the Goods safe that you sent all very right. Tho they was 2 Silk Handkerchiefs that was not mentioned in the Letter: Our Living at the Sth Branch is much worse than when you Left it, but worse we all should be, was it not for the produce of your whole Summer's Toil (mean'g the Garden). We have never had above 4 days Provision's before hand Since your departure. After you left the house I sent for the Hunter to come home his Children took bad and they all stayed about a week at the House & then He went quite off and Left me. I have since the above Hunter Left me employed the Hair & his Tentmate. The hair has killed nothing as Yet & the other has killed 12 Moose and Red Deer but Chiefly of the Latter. There hath been no Indians of any account here since your Departure. The Indians is some way informed of your being down Early in the Spring & those that is indebted to you will pay then. I hope if Pofsiable you will be down here about the 20th of April next. As for the Timber you mention'd you may depend upon it that I shall slip no oppertunity whatever in getting what Timber fall'd that I can. The Hunter? that I have employed Cannot keep above ten men at the most, no Bufalo is not within 2 good Days Journey of the house. All the Indians that came to our house and the french House is nigh starving for want of Provisions. I have not Rec'd 1 Oz. of dried meat of any kind and only 4 bladders of Fatt since your Departure & there is no better Sign of better times I think at present unlefs the Seine quite Changes from worse to better. - The following Indians 4 as paid all his Debt. Flying up man's boy paid 1/2 Beav. for a Bayonet that was all he had. I have sent all the Indians Debts. The Combs at your departure was only 8 and now there is but 4; & now I conclude having no other particular to relate but wishing Succefs to the Company's Affairs Health and Happinefs to attend you & so remain
Your very humble Servant
Mitchel Oman."

Jan. 15
" Friday Wind Variable Clear and very sharp. all the men employed geathering firewood. In the Evening arrived 1 Safsew Indian & his woman with afew Skins and alittle Provisions and in the night they was merry with Drink."

Jan. 16
" Saturday Wind Ely amiddling stiff breeze. This day the Safsew Indian traded and went away. At noon arrived 2 Canadian's with a few Skins who intended to enter our Service. The men at the house employed Cleaning the Yard &c. In the Evening arrived ayoung Indian from my hunter's Tent with the news that their was 5 Cow's to fetch."

Jan. 17
" Sunday Wind WbN avery sharp Clear day."

Jan. 18
" Monday Wind Variable sharp Clear weather. 4 men went with Dogs and 6 Sleds to fetch meat. The men at the house hauling home firewood upon 2 Horse &c."

Jan. 19
" Tuesday Wind SE amoderate breeze with a little Small Drift. The men that went for meat returned. brought the News that there was as much to fetch Tomorrow. The men at the house employed hauling home firewood upon 2 Horse. Gilbert Laughten working in the Armouring businefs. Magnus Twatt Carpentering & 2 men Tayloring."

Jan. 20
" Wednesday Wind Easterly a middling breeze fine Wea. 4 Men went to the hunter's Tent for meat. The rest of the men employed in taking down the men's Chymney for We are almost blind with Smoak for this many days past I have not been able to Look on my book. and indeed almost every Body when Evening came on alhands was oblige to take to their Beds."

Jan. 21
" Thursday Wind Variable with alittle Snow the whole day. The men that went for meat returned. and the rest Cutting firewood &c. not being Wea. to work at the Chymney. also at noon the Hunter arrived & gave him a Drink."

Jan. 22
" Friday Wind Ely avery mild day. The men alhands employed building the men's Chymney but with much Difficulty. They have got it up as high as the Sidewall and this Evening we have received great Satisfaction for our days Labour. also Rec'd the New's of one Cow to fetch from our hunter."

Jan. 23
" Saturday Wind Variable fine warm Wea. This day the men finnish'd the Chymney also sent 2 men to fetch the Cow that was kill'd & they returned in the Evening again."

Jan. 24
" Sunday Wind SE with alittle Snow and at Noon Changed to the NW with heavy gale & at Sun going down very red Sky."

Jan. 25
" Monday Wind NW avery stiff gale the whole day. The men employed getting alittle firewood Gilbert Laughten & 1 man making some Nails &c. Two men mending my Chymney, and 1 man Looking after horse but returned without finding any Supposing the windy Wea. to have drove them off to other ground for Shelter."

Jan. 26
" Tuesday Wind Variable fine Wea. The men employed gathering Some firewood &c."

Jan. 27
" Wednesday Wind NW amiddling breeze fine warm weather. The men employed as before."

Jan. 28
" Thursday Wind NW avery stiff Gale with a great Rain in the morning, but a Continued Small Rain & Thaw the most part of the day until Evening than alittle Snow. and Colder. also received New's from out hunters that there was 5 Cow's to fetch. Gilbert Laughten working at Snow Shoe's and the rest indoors not being wea. to work out."

Jan. 29
" Friday Wind NW amiddling stiff breeze sharp clear Wea. 4 Men with dogs went for meat. and the rest of the Labouring men haul'g firewood upon Horse, also The Trad's men as before."

Jan. 30
" Saturday Wind Westerly amiddling breeze Cloudy wea. The men at the House employed Cleaning the Yard &c. also the men that went for meat returned. At noon arrived 1 Black foot for Tobacco and in the Evening they arrived. Traded alittle to Drink with afew Tongues."

Jan. 31
" Sunday Wind SbE amoderate breeze overcast Wea. One man went to the Hunters Tent for alittle inside Fatt & meat. And in the Evening Returned."

Feb. 1 1790
" Monday Wind SE amiddling breeze Clear Sharp Wea. The men employed at their sundry Duty's."

Feb. 2
" Tuesday Wind SE amoderate breeze Clear and very sharp but at noon moderate warm Wea. The men employed. Mag. Twatt making Snow Shoes. Gilbert Laughten Armouring. 2 men Tayloring & the rest gathering wood & hauling it home. In the Evening arrived ayoung Indian from the Hunter to inform us to fetch meat."

Feb. 3
" Wednesday Wind Variable amoderate breeze fine wea. 4 men went away to fetch meat & the rest employed as before. In the Evening arrived Mr Stayner from residing in the plane's."

Feb. 4
" Thursday Wind Nly amoderate breeze Clear fine Wea. The men that went for meat returned Also those at home employed as before. In the Morning arrived 3 Sd Indians with afew Skin's of Debt and afew to Trade."

Feb. 5
" Friday Wind SE overcast wea. amiddling breeze. 4 Men went to the hunters Tent for meat. The rest employed as before: The 3 Sd Indians went away."

Feb. 6
" Saturday Wind NbW amiddling breeze with alittle Small Snow. The men that went for meat returned & the men at the House Cleaning the Yard &c. In the Evening arrived 3 Sd Indians with Some Skins, also 3 Stone ones for Tobacco Ammunition &c."

Feb. 7
" Sunday Wind Nly avery stiff breeze Clear and very sharp Wea. Sent 2 men to fetch meat &c from James Tate."

Feb. 8
" Monday Wind and Wea. much the same as Yesterday. The men that went to James Tates Tent returned with 2 Pimmeecon bags, Parchment and Shaganappee which is a Cord made of the hide of a Beast, also sent 3 Men to the Hunters Tent for meat. The rest employed Cutting firewood &c. The 3 Stone Indians went away that came for a Present of Tobacco. The Sd ones Traded."

Feb. 9
" Tuesday Wind Westerly amoderate breeze fine Wea. The Sd Indians went away: The men that went for meat returned, and with the News that they was 2 more Cows to fetch. The men at the house employed cutting firewood. Gilbert Laughten Stocking a Gun."

Feb. 10
" Wednesday Wind Variable Clear mild wea. The men employed as before. Also the 4 Men that went for meat returned."

Feb. 11
" Thursday Wind & Wea. the same as Yesterday. The men employed as before. 4 men went for meat & returned brought 3 Cows home. At noon arrived 4 Sd Indians with afew Skins Made 2 Laying Down's & 1 of them I Rigg'd & they all got hearty and Drunk."

Feb. 12
" Friday Wind Variable fine Weather. Myself Rec'd Some Debt, also Traded with those that arrived Yesterday. Sent 4 men with Dogs to James Tates Tent for 3 Cows that was killed. The men employed cutting firewood. Gilbert Laughten Coopering & Mag. Twatt mak'g Sledges."

Feb. 13
" Saturday Wind SE amoderate breeze fine Wea. The men at the House employed as before. The men that went for meat arrived and with the New that there was 3 more to fetch. Indians went away that arrived on Thursday."

Feb. 14
" Sunday Wind Ely avery fine warm day. Sent 2 men away for the 2 Cow's with Dogs & 4 Sledges and they returned in the Evening Also Received the news that their was 10 Cow's to fetch from the Indian Hunters Tent."

Feb. 15
" Monday Wind Variable Clear fine Wea. The men employed Gilbert Laughten making Kegs Lefs, Mag. Twatt making Sled's pr Dogs, 2 men Tayloring, 4 men went for meat & the rest Cutting firewood."

Feb. 16
" Tuesday Wind SE amiddling breeze Clear Wea The men at the House employed as before. also the men that went for meat returned."

Feb. 17
" Wednesday Wind Variable Clear fine wea. The men all employed as before. At noon arrived 1 Sd Indian with 5 Skins."

Feb. 18
" Thursday Wind Variable but hazy. The men employed as before. also Rec'd 3 Cows from the hunter; In the Evening arrived 4 young Sd Indians Just to see what they Could get. They brought nothing. and has little they will receive. Except apipe of Tobacco."

Feb. 19
" Friday Wind SE amiddling breeze Clear warm wea. Gilbert Laughten employed in the Smithey. Mag. Twatt Sled making. 2 men Taylor'g for the men, 4 Men went for meat and the rest Cutting firewood."

Feb. 20
" Saturday Wind & Weather much the Same as Yesterday. The men employed as before also the men that went for meat returned. At noon arrived afew Sd Indians with Some Skins. Paid their Debts & I gave them a Treat gratis. The fassion in this Country in the Room of getting Interest. We all must give Credit and pay Interest too. Also one man arrived for a few necefsary's that he had laying up at the house."

Feb. 21
" Sunday Wind WbN amiddling stiff breeze Clear sharp weather. The Indians still Drunk as before. Towards Evening arrived a Couple of Sd Indians with afew Skins."

Feb. 22
" Monday Wind SbE amiddling stiff breeze sharp Clear Wea. The men employed 5 fetching meat. 2 with 3 Horse to James Tate Tent. Gilbert Laughten making Steels out of old Files. and the rest taking Care of the House. The Indians traded and went away. I made about 300 Beaver from them."

Feb. 23
" Tuesday Wind Ely amiddling stiff breeze with Snow and Drift. The men employed Gilbert Laughten making Steels, 5 Men arrived with meat, and the rest making fettles for Carry'g the Bundles by & 1 Man ailing."

Feb. 24
" Wednesday Wind NW astrong breeze Clear Wea. & Sharp. Five Men went away for meat. Two Taylors making Children's Coats. and the rest Cleaning the Yard. also 2 Men that I sent to James Tate's Tent on Monday returned."

Feb. 25
" Thursday Wind SE amoderate breeze Clear Weather. The men returned that went for meat. Two mending the Arch of their Chymney. Mag. Twatt hunting kill'd 3 Cow's, and the rest Cutting alittle firewood."

Feb. 26
" Friday Wind NW amiddling breeze Snow in the morning. At noon Cleared and very sharp. 5 Men went away for meat. 2 Men with Mag. Twatt Skining and laying the Beast up that was kill'd Yesterday. Also kil'd 1 more to day & the rest of the men employed at their Sundry Duty's."

Feb. 27
" Saturday Wind NE amiddling stiff breeze Snowing the whole day: The men that went for meat Yesterday returned. and the men at the House employed at their Sundry Duty's. Towards Evening arrived Some Stone Indians with agood many Skins. The above Indians used to Trade with me at the South Branch House. About 8 PM the Men's Chymney took fire. but we knocked down the front so prevent'd it doing any Damage to the House."

Feb. 28
" Sunday Wind Nly amoderate breeze Clear sharp Wea."

Mar. 1 1790
" Monday Wind Variable till Noon than WbN amiddling stiff breeze Clear Weather. 5 Men went for meat. and at 3 PM returned. The men at the House making anew Arch &c."

Mar. 2
" Tuesday Wind & Weather as before. The men employed about their Sundry Duties. At 2 PM arrived 4 Stone Indians with Some Skins gave them alittle to Drink and they Traded alittle, also 5 Men went for meat & at 2 PM returned."

Mar. 3
" Wednesday Wind Northerly amiddling stiff breeze Clear sharp Weather. The men employed Two men Tayloring Gilbert Laughten working at the Forge. Mag. Twatt & 1 man at the Pitsaw and 5 Men fetching Meat. About 2 PM return'd home Ailing Alhrew Smith. One man & myself Trading Some Skins from the above mentioned Indians &c."

Mar. 4
" Thursday Wind SW amiddling breeze Clear fine Wea. The men employed 5 went for meat & returned again the same day. Gilbert Laughten making awls &c Mag. Twatt & 1 man Turning 2 Sledges. The 2 Taylors making Indian Coats and the rest Cutting firewood. Traded alittle with the Stone Indians."

Mar. 5
" Friday Wind Nly amiddling breeze with alittle Snow. 5 Men fetching meat. Gilbert Laughten working at the Forge. Two men Tayloring and the rest employed Cutting alittle firewood &c."

Mar. 6
" Saturday Wind NE amiddling breeze Cloudy Wea. The men all employed as before and Clean'g the Yard, also my 4 Men that was residing at the Hunter's Tent returned home. having a Sufficiency of fresh meat to serve Us till such time that We embark into the Canoes."

Mar. 7
" Sunday Wind SW amiddling stiff breeze Clear Weather."

Mar. 8
" Monday Wind NE amiddling breeze with alittle Snow. The men employed Gilbert Laughten Coopering. Two Men Tayloring & the rest Clean'g the Yard & cutting alittle firewood."

Mar. 9
" Tuesday Wind Variable fine Weather. The men employed about their Sundry Duty's also arrived afew Sd Indians with Some Skins & alittle dried Provisions."

Mar. 10
" WednesdayWind Ely amoderate breeze Clear fine Weather. The men employed at their Sundry Duties. Sent Mag. Twatt to recall some of my Men home thats residing out mentaining themselves. also the Stone Indians that Arrived on the 2d went away and some of them that arrived Yesterday."

Mar. 11
" Thursday Wind Northerly amoderate breeze Clear Weather; The men at the House employed about their Sundry Duties AM about 9 OClock Arrived Mag. Spence who was sent by James Gaddy who went out the Last fall to the Muddy River & Blood Indians for Tobacco, Paint and Knives for 13 Leaders. also 3 Gns Brandy which I sent: They inform me they are to arrive Tomorrow only a small party that is behind, which I sent Geo. Rofs to them to see that they was not Mifsled by my Neighbours flattering Tongue. At PM Arrived 2 Sd Indians for Tobacco and Ammunition &c."

Mar. 12
" Friday Wind NW amiddling breeze Clear Weather. The men at the House employed attend'g James Gaddy and his Gang who arrived at AM about 7 OClock all well thank God, also the Same day 7 Leading men 6 Blood and 1 Black Foot with agood many Furrs also 4 more which is to Arrive Tomorrow of Pig in'noe Indians all very good Furrs mostly Wolves."

Mar. 13
" Saturday Wind Nly amiddling stiff breeze with a little Snow and Drift. The men employed attending the Indians being all Drunk. At PM Arrived the Other 4 Leaders mention'd Yesterday very well Furr'd as before So that I Rigg'd 11 of them in all. I am informed by James Gaddy that there is to arrive agood many more Pig'e'noe Indians in the Spring or Summer he is not Sure which but I am Certain I shall not have where with to receive them & so much it is the worse for your Honour's Enterest. We are sent here to stand in Opposition against the Canadians, in the Room of that We are hear only to be Laugh'd at. for this many Years past we have had bad Tobacco and now again we are Short in that Article and every other one besides was I to do my Duty as Directed But I find I have little enough to serve where I am, and not a sufficiency as I ought to have for such a Numerous and Various Tribes, that resorts this Place. James Gaddy and Myself trading with some of the above Indians. In my Opinion it would require 20 Men more in this River for to do your businefs. Gent. you have again brought down your Standard for the Wolves to be as one Beaver. undoubtedly in aShort time it will be of a great hurt to Trade. Also These Indians coming so far off with their Furrs they used to receive great encouragement for them Such as Gun's but now I can do no such athing and many more things of Value besides: Hear again Your Honor's Charge Rings 6 as 1 Beaver to Us. Canadians will never give Lefs than a dozen for nothing and as for my part I have given above two Grofs away & never received 1 Yet. also Hawks Bells, Gun worms, Needles, Paint and most part of the Knives. This Last Alteration You Gent. have made of my Opinion will hurt your Trade that used to be given to different Indians which will not be as before So that it will soon make them abandon Us & turn over to our Neighbour's. It very hard for me that anew Master that cannot use my freedom among the Natives as before that is in making such presents as they us'd to get. If any of my Superiors have done aMifs it ought not to turn out upon me for I defy the best one of them to say any thing of me that I am asham'd off ever since I have been in your Service that is in defrauding any of my Masters property or Changing of Furrs, which I only immagine to be the instigation of the new alteration. Ther's again the men being stopt to trade any Guns out of your wharehouse. thats another detriment. for where I was at the Sd I never had half the above Article So that I always demanded the men's ones. which still kept the trade from the Canadians and Some Indians for the sake of getting an English Gun would bring is whole Trade into the House by it and now I am liable to be Short again Here which I am very well afsured that they are short where I came from the Sd Branch."

Mar. 14
" Sunday Wind NE amiddling breeze with alittle Small Snow the whole day. Indians Some of them Drunk as before Also James Gaddy and me Trading with them."

Mar. 15
" Monday Wind Northerly amiddling breeze Cloudy Weather. finnish'd Trading with the Indians and they all Pitched away; At noon arrived Mr Stayner & 4 men from the Planes and in the afternoon arrived James Tate and 3 Men all hands home Thank God."

Mar. 16
" Tuesday Wind Variable Cloudy Weather. This day I tied up the above Indians furrs which amounted to 770 Skins chiefly Wolves that Came from the Stoney Mountain also 400 beloning to my Men that was at the mountain with them. Our Neighbour Mr Pangman informed in my house that He had made 630 which I think was not much inferior to Us if it was Truth Considering my Men was wintering with them the whole winter So I cannot see the great Service they do by going only endangering their Lives as they say themselves. if the Wolves was the same upon Trade as they used to be I could be able to keep my own with my Neighbours as before. Suppose your Honor's had overplufs this Year's past it was still better for your's and made Us require Lefs Goods For I do not see that you have such great Conveyences nor Yet Servants Sufficient to bring such great Quantity's of Goods as Your Honor's would require. for I am Sure Mr Tomison was agood Man for your Enterest So that Let it be Overplufs or not you got the whole."

Mar. 17
" Wednesday Wind Northerly amiddling stiff breeze Cloudy Weather. The men employed at their Sundry Dutys about the House."

Mar. 18
" Thursday Wind Variable Cloudy cold weather with alittle Snow. The men Employed beating Beatmeat & making Pimmeecon bags to the N 30 of 66 lbs Each. Two men Tayloring Gilbert Laughten working at the Armouring businefs &c."

Mar. 19
" Friday Wind Variable amoderate breeze Cloudy Weather with alittle Small Snow. The men at the House employed cutting alittle firewood and the Trade's People as before. also the Men Looking for their Horse."

Mar. 20
" Saturday Wind Westerly amiddling stiff breeze Clear Weather. The men employed Cleaning the Yard and Trades men as before."

Mar. 21
" Sunday Wind Westerly amiddling stiff breeze overcast weather."

Mar. 22
" Monday Wind Westerly amoderate breeze overcast Weather. The men employed about their Sundry Duty's at the house."

Mar. 23
" Tuesday Wind Variable Clear fine Wea. The men employed cutting alittle firewood &c."

Mar. 24
" Wednesday Wind Westerly amiddling breeze Cloudy Wea. with alittle Snow. Nine men employed fetching home Birch for the Prefs and the rest Cutting alittle firewood. Mag. Twatt getting the prefs in Order for packing. Gilbert Laughten working in the Smithey & two men Tayloring."

Mar. 25
" Thursday Wind Nly amiddling stiff breeze Clear Weather. The men employed about their Sundry Dutys at the House."

Mar. 26
" Friday Wind & Weather as before. The men employed as on Wednesday Last."

Mar. 27
" Saturday Wind Nly amiddling stiff breeze overcast Weather. The men all Employed about their Sundry dutys at the House; Also made 15 more Pimmeecon bags of 66 lbs Each Which is all I am able to make at this time."

Mar. 28
" Sunday Wind Variable Clear fine weather."

Mar. 29
" Monday Wind Sly amiddling breeze Clear fine Wea. The men employed Gilbert Laughten working in the Smithey. Two Men Tayloring & Mag. Twatt putting the Prefs to rights and the rest doing other Sundry Jobs about the house."

Mar. 30
" Tuesday Wind SE amoderste breeze fine Wea. The men employed as before."

Mar. 31
" Wednesday Wind SW amoderate breeze fine Weather: The men employed about Sundry Duty's as before Except Mag. Twatt and 1 Man plaining woodwork for 2 Canoes and the Men's Women mak'g Pitch and Splitting meat for drying."

Apr. 1 1790
" Thursday Wind Sly amoderate breeze heazy morning; The Men all employed about their Sundry Duty's as before and Women also."

Apr. 2
" Friday Wind Variable amoderate breeze Cloudy Wea. with alittle Snow. The Men employed as before Except 4 I sent away to keep Horse, Also Some Stone Indians arrived with alittle Provisions Traded and went away."

Apr. 3
" Saturday Wind Northerly amiddling breeze with Cold and alittle Snow. The men employed at their Sundry Duty's as before & the Women mak'g Pitch."

Apr. 4
" Sunday Wind Variable amiddling mild Clear day. At Noon arrived 1 Young stone Indian for Tobacco so I inquired what they was coming in with and he told me it was Provision's. know'g Myself to have a Sufficiency for this Season & the Leader not coming here in the winter with his furrs I told him He might go where he Carried his Furr's. Besides I have not a Sufficiency of Tobacco & Ammunition to Serve my own Indians that always Trade here."

Apr. 5
" Monday Wind NW amiddling stiff breeze Cloudy Cold Weather. The Trades People employed at their own businefs's Also the other Men packed 10 Bundles of furrs &c."

Apr. 6
" Tuesday Wind SE amoderate breeze overcast Weather for the most part of the day. Seven Swans seen flying by the house. Magnus Twatt and 1 Man planing Canoewood, and the rest packed 20 Bundles of Furr's &c."

Apr. 7
" Wednesday Wind Variable amoderate breeze fine Weather. The men employed packing furr's and the Trade's People as before."

Apr. 8
" Thursday Wind SE amiddling breeze Clear Weather: The men employed as before."

Apr. 9
" Friday Wind NW amiddling breeze Cloudy with alittle Snow. The men employed as before."

Apr. 10
" Saturday Wind Variable Cloudy Weather. The men Employed Gilbert Laughton making awls. The Carpenter & 1 man plaining Canoewood. Two Taylor's Tayloring, and the rest Cleaning the Yard & Cutting alittle firewood."

Apr. 11
" Sunday Wind Nly amiddling breeze Clear Weather. Three Sd Indian Men and their wives arrived brought agood few Skins also 4 Canadians with the same to pay some Debt &c."

Apr. 12
" Monday Wind Northerly Cloudy Weather with amoderate breeze: Those Arrived Yesterday Traded and went away. The men Employed all at their Sundry Duties."

Apr. 13
" Tuesday Wind Wly amoderate breeze Clear Weather. The Men Employed Mag. Twatt & 2 Men Looking out for Gunnels &c Two men Tayloring. Gilbert Laughten working in the Smithey, and the rest Cutting alittle firewood."

Apr. 14
" Wednesday Wind Wly amoderate breeze Cloudy with alittle Snow: The men employed as before. At noon arrived Some Stone Indians sent for Some Tobacco, but I would not send them any not without they had furrs."

Apr. 15
" Thursday Wind SE amoderate breeze fine Wea. The Men employed Gilbert Laughten making Steels. Mag. Twatt & 2 Men Getting Canoewood and the rest getting Paddles &c. The Stone Indians that arrived Yesterday Traded and went away. The above Indians had the impudence to send for Tobacco Ammunition &c. also the Culler's to be hoisted & Gun's to be fir'd for them. Their Trade was Fatt 15 lbs and Some Beatmeat. But I did not comply with their above Demands. What makes these Indians be so bad his the Canadians gives such great encouragement for Provisions on the Account They have their Partner's to Supply that comes from the Northward Which for every pound weight they receive 3 Livers when made into Pimmeecon, which is Deducted from the others Furr's; Also I am informed that their is another Company upon Fact, Which they Expect in this Summer. Mr Pangman I am informed is to stay in this Summer, and to proceed up the River to build a New House God know's where or how far. We are poorly off this Year for want of Men and Goods & I suppose we shall be worse the Next to all appearances for your Honor's have appointed so many Settlements to be made at once that the places now being must Certainly Suffer. Your Honor's might have had a Settlement or two to the Sd Sometime ago where they might have made good returns both in Canoes and Furrs suitable to your Enterest and afterwards to have proceeded Northward. & than when our Goods goe's there You may be sure Gent. that, few Norwad Indians will ever Visit Churchill Factory. This House we are now staying at is avery good house for Indians. but Yet it is not good for getting Canoes or firewood and most Commonly about 3 or 4 foot water in the lower Room of the house when the flush of water comes down in the Summer. I was thinking which I have mentioned before of building a House higher up myself if incase I had where with to have sent upon the Account of getting Canoes and Some good Furr;'s which have been Cutten off from this house this Year by Mr Shaw which is about the Moose and Beaver Hills, for that is a Chief place for every Article suitable to your Honor's Affairs was Some of Us there with Goods."

Apr. 16
" Friday Wind SE amoderate breeze Clear Wea. The men Employed Gilbert Laughten on the Smithey. Carpenter & 2 Men getting Gunnels pr 2 Canoes. Two Tayloring and the rest getting Paddles."

Apr. 17
" Saturday Wind Variable Cloudy weather. The men employed as before."

Apr. 18
" Sunday Wind Nly amiddling stiff breeze Clear Weather."

Apr. 19
" Monday Wind Variable Clear fine weather. The men employed Gilbert Laughten making afew Boat Nails. Some getting drywood for Pitching the Canoes with when wanted. Two men Taloring & Mag. Twatt Turning Canoe Timbers. I order'd a Man to Afsist him but He read'yly told me he was not Paid for it. And my Opinion is that they are paid for any Duty they are fit for that is Lawful and Right for your Honor's Enterest that a Master should Incumbent upon them. Knowing Myself; that it Laid in your Power to hurt them for it, if you Chused, but you never have done it, and they think you never will. Its not only this Year, but it has been for this few Years past and they are still worse and worse behaving. This day One of the Canadians who was the owner of the Canoe that came up Last fall with an intention to enter Our Service was drawn by to Enter into theirs again So what little he had from me in the Coarse of the Winter I received 1 Large Cooking Kettle for it which went sorely against my will to take any thing. I offer'd Him 3 ? 10 ? for his Canoe, but He asked me 24 £ Gent. you must Allow me that I must be alittle acquainted with the Custom's of These Men as I mention'd before in my Journal For the General run of them is a parcel of Shifting Fellow's and the Lefser concern you Honor's have with such I am Certain will be Better for your Enterests; I hope You'l Excuse my Freedom In what I have said.
You have good Servants and Careful ones was you to send aplenty to Supply the Places you Gent. have in Vew, that is if they are kept in proper Order. as Servants ought to be."

Apr. 20
" Tuesday Wind SW a middling breeze clear fine weather. the men employed. Gilbert Laughton repairing the Boat. Magnes Twatt and 2 Men bending Timbers for Canoes. two men Tayloring and the rest cut a little pitch wood and picking Oakham."

Apr. 21
" Wednesday Wind and Weather much the same as Yesterday. the men all employed as before."

Apr. 22
" Thursday Wind variable fine weather. the men all employed as before."

Apr. 23
" Friday Wind SW a middling breeze clear weather. the men employed. Gilbert Laughton and 1 man repairing the boat. Magnes Twatt and one man working Canoe wood. two men Tayloring and the rest making paddles."

Apr. 24
" Saturday Wind South middling breeze clear weather. the tradesmen employed as before and the rest cleaning the Yard."

Apr. 25
" Sunday Wind SbW a middling breeze clear weather. three Southward Indian men and their wives arrived. brought a few Skins. also Mr Stayner and one man arrived from the Horse Tent."

Apr. 26
" Monday Wind SE a very stiff breeze clear weather. the men employed at their Sundry duties also the Southward Indians pitched away."

Apr. 27
" Tuesday Wind variable cloudy at times. the men employed Gilbert Laughton repairing the boat. Magnes Twatt making Canoe wood and the rest making paddles."

Apr. 28
" Wednesday Wind NW a middling breeze overcast weather the men all employed as before."

Apr. 29
" Thursday Wind Easterly a middling stiff breeze with rain and snow."

Apr. 30
" Friday Wind and Weather the same as Yesterday."

May 1 1790
" Saturday Wind SE a moderate breeze fine weather. this day sent off Mr Stayner with nine English and three Canadian men with Horses loaded with 62 bundles of Furrs to the South Branch. the men at the House employed about Sundry duties as before."

May 2
" Sunday Wind Variable with flying clouds and snow at times."

May 3
" Monday Wind Northerly a middling stiff breeze very cold weather. the men all employed about their Sundry Duties at the House. in the Evening arrived one Southward Indian."

May 4
" Tuesday Wind Variable middling weather. the men employed Gilbert Laughton and one man caulking the boat. Magnes Twatt making Canoe wood and the rest doing as they pleased. By the Southward Indian that arrived Yesterday I am informed that the Goods of the House above us is nigh done. Thank God for it for I am sure that it has been two Thousand Beaver out of our way which is the prime of the furrs that used to come from that Quarter. We have too little Goods to stand in opposition against our Neighbours as You Gentlemen order us to do and the next Year to all appearance we shall have lefs. for your Honor's have got so many places to settle in one Year, that I think some of them will fall short. For the Men you have in the Country now is not 1/6 part to what the Canadians have. and how and which way is it that we are to watch their motions."

May 5
" Wednesday Wind Variable Clear but cold weather. the men employed. Gilbert Laughton finished repairing the boat to day. Magnes Twatt and one man working Canoe wood and the rest at sundry duties about the house. at Noon arrived three Southward and five Muddy River Indians. brought a Good few skins but few came here to what went to the Canadian House all the Indians drunk."

May 6
" Thursday Wind SE a middling breeze Rainy weather the whole day."

May 7
" Friday Wind SE a middling breeze cloudy weather. the men employed about Sundry duties at the House. James Tate, James Gaddy and myself trading with the Indians that arrived the 5th Instant and boated them all off again."

May 8
" Saturday Wind and Weather as before."

May 9
" Sunday Wind Northerly a middling breeze with snow the whole day."

May 10
" Monday Wind and Weather the same as Yesterday till Noon then Cleared and a little Ice drove past the House but no great rise of water ensued. In the afternoon arrived 1 Southward and two Blackfoot Indians with a few skins. Traded and went away again for fear the River should choak with Ice."

May 11
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a middling breeze Cloudy weather. The River broke up and pafsed the House about 4 1/2 PM. Gilbert Laughton and 4 men making a Canoe of wood and the Rest doing sundry Duties about the House."

May 12
" Wednesday Wind Variable overcast weather the Ice still driving in the River. the men employed as before. at Noon Thunder, Lightning and Rain. Arrived a Great Tribe of Fall Indians with a Good many skins. these Indians has been off from any of these Settlements these 2 Years through some Differences that happened between them and the Southward Indians."

May 13
" Thursday Wind NE a middling breeze overcast weather. the men employed as before. this day arrived a few Southward Indians they brought a few skins."

May 14
" Friday Wind NE a moderate breeze overcast weather. the men employed about their Sundry Duties at the house."

May 15
" Saturday Wind Variable fine weather: sent 3 Canoes away to Cumberland House. their Cargoes being 36 bundles of furrs and 14 Pimmeecon Bags. the rest employed setting up a Canoe. also Gilbert Laughton finished the wood Canoe."

May 16
" Sunday Wind Southerly a moderate breeze clear hot Sultry weather. at noon arrived two Southward Indians for Tobacco."

May 17
" Monday Wind southerly a moderate breeze clear hot weather. the men employed working about the Canoes. at noon arrived a few Southward Indians with a few skins."

May 18
" Tuesday Wind and Weather the same as Yesterday. the men employed as before building a Canoe. also arrived a few Southward Indians with some skins."

May 19
" Wednesday Wind SbW a middling stiff breeze clear hot weather. the men employed as before. the Indians all drunk. this Morning the Indians fell out amongst themselves and one Young Indian was very severely wounded in the Arm, and stabbed in the side. he directly called to his Companion (a Young Indian that hunted for me) to afsist, who immediately took a Gun, loaded it with two balls and fired amongst them. shot one woman dead and wounded two men. so that I am doubtful of their recovery."

May 20
" Thursday Wind SW a moderate breeze clear weather. the men employed packing furrs. building and mending Canoes. traded a few skins from the Indians they all drunk as before."

May 21
" Friday Wind Variable with small showers of Rain at times. the men employed as before. the Indians drunk as before."

May 22
" Saturday Wind Southerly a middling breeze clear weather. Sent 4 Canoes away for Cumberland House. their Lading 47 Bundles of furrs. and 15 bags of Pimmeecon. also the Indians all pitched away. at noon arrived one Sufsew Indian with a few skins traded and went away again. this Evening finished the Canoes. James Tate and myself making an overhaul of the trading Goods Stores &c. in the Evening arrived two Canoes with a good few skins and I gave them a little to drink."

May 23
" Sunday Wind Northerly a middling breeze with small showers of rain. the men employed pitching and watering their Canoes. the Indians still drinking as before."

May 24
" Monday Wind NE a middling breeze with rain the whole day. at Noon arrived 6 Sufsew Indians with a few good skins: they traded and went away with what I could hardly spare. as Tobacco and Ammunition it being nigh ended for I only left? 30 lbs of each to maintain them in the Summer which is very little for so many Men. I have appointed James Tate to stay here as Master knowing him to be a good man in every particular for your honor's Interest for I do intend to set off tomorrow, it weather permits. for we are later this Spring than ever was known since I have been in the Country owing to the backwardnefs of the Season."

May 25
" Tuesday Wind Variable with showers of hail and Rain for the most part of the day. about Noon I left Manchester house accompanied with 6 Canoes besides my own. I was obliged to leave 4 Bundles behind me for I was not able to take them with me: after about 6 hours paddle put up. the hail falling in such Quantities that it was with much difficulty we could keep our Cargoes dry."

May 26
" Wednesday Wind NE a strong breeze right ahead. at 6 AM we set of and proceeded down the River untill 6 PM. killed 1 Beaver and 5 Geese."

May 27
" Thursday Wind variable a middling breeze clear weather. we proceeded down the River with the wind right a head. we paddled about 14 hours and then put up. killed 6 beaver and saw plenty of buffalo along the banks of the River. but we did not take time to kill any."

May 28
" Friday Wind Southerly a moderate breeze clear hot weather. we proceeded on our Journey. sett of about 3 AM and about Noon arrived at the Crofsing place where Mitchell Oman had two men waiting with Horses for my Arrival. I took Horse directly and Rode acrofs the Country to the South Branch House and about 9 PM arrived where I found Mitchell Oman and all the men well thank God. with a middling Trade, considering the Number of Indians that came in. I also received the disagreeable News of Mr Hudson's death."

" Copy of a Letter from Mr Malchom Rofs to Mr Wm Walker
Cumberland House May 12th 1790
Mr Will. Walker
Sir, I have taken the Earliest opportunity pofsible, of sending a Canoe, with the disagreeable News of the death of Mr George Hudson who departed this Life April 19th in a sudden manner. he had been ailing for some time but not so much as to Confine him to his bed. In the latter end of March he was attacked with a swelling in his legs, which afterwards set up in his Belly accompanied with a dry Cough. which at last took him off suddenly.
I am sorry to acquaint you of the low state of affairs of this place when I took Charge which was on the 20th April. after an overhaul of the Trading Goods Provisions &c was made by Mr Philip Turnor Charles Isham and myself we found only one Quart of Brandy and that in mixed stuff very little Cloth and a very small Quantity of shot. and no more provisions than 150 lbs of Beat Meat, 50 lbs of Fat, and 20 lbs of dried Meat. the last of which Provisions is served to the Bearers for their Journey to you. One great Motive in sending a Canoe to you is the Hopes I have of your being able to supply this place with more provisions than you could otherwise have brought down. and should you have left the House You will be able if you think proper to send them up for any Provisions you think the Branch house can spare, as more depends on the House than formerly, as by what I can learn, an Expedition to the Northward must take place this Summer, and Great reliance is made on Mr Philip Turnor for farther particulars on your Arrival at this place, our whole dependance at present for provisions is on Ducks and Geese, and for that purpose, and fitting out the Indians, and for this Canoe, there is no more than 66 lbs of shot therefore I need not inform you how necefsary a supply of shot and Brandy is to this House: and rest well satisfyed that you will give it all the Afsistance in your power. the Trade at this place is no more than 2750 Made Beaver including 725 traded by me between June 9th and Oct. 7th 1789.
Inclosed, is a List of the Debts of such Indians as propbably you may meet at your settlement, or in your pafsage to this place: Mefs Turnor, Isham and David Thompson Joins me in sincere wishes for your welfare and a prosperous Trade.
I am
Sir
Your most Obedient
Humble Servant
Malchom Rofs.
PS No Garden Seeds was left at this place last Year, or any remaining. if you will be so Obliging as to send me some down, and Join a few Potatoes with them, they will be kindly Received.
Adieu M Rofs."


" Copy of a Letter from Mr Philip Turnor to Mr W. Walker
Sir,
It being necersary, to give you the earliest Intelligence in our power, of the the death of Mr George Hudson, who departed this life the 19th of last month. at the same time, to inform you of the Situation of the Affairs of this House, which (according to information) is in the worst posture they were ever in at this Season of the Year. Not a drop of Brandy, and very little of any material Articles of Trading Goods. and so small a Quantity of Provisions that it is not worth inserting.
I need not inform you how necefsary it is for to give this place all the Afsistance in your power, with respect to provisions, as more depends on it than formerly.
If you have not been fully informed of the intended Expedition to the Northward and the immediate necefsity of prosecuting it this Summer, upon your arrival at this place, I shall give you every information in my Power.
I have to remind you of my former Request that Peter Fidler may be sent down, that he may not slip the opportunity of receiving all the information in my power respecting finding the Latitude and Longitude of any place he may be sent to.
I am
Dear Sir
Your's respectfully
Philip Turnor."

May 29
" Saturday Wind EbS a moderate breeze clear fine weather. the men employed pitching and getting the Canoes in readinefs also 2 Canoes went away for Cumberland House Laded with 26 Bundles of furrs."

May 30
" Sunday Wind Westerly a moderate breeze fine weather. 6 Canoes embarked with their Cargoes 63 Bundles of furrs also Mitchell Oman and myself making an overhaul of the Trading Goods &c."

May 31
" Monday Wind Northerly about 10 AM I embarked from the South Branch, accompanied with 3 Canoes besides myself and about 6 PM we put up."

June 1 1790
" Tuesday Wind NE a middling breeze the forepart Clear afterpart Cloudy with thunder Lightning and Rain. at 3 1/2 AM we sett of again and paddled 'till about 6 PM the whole Night Thunder and Lightning."

June 2
" Wednesday Wind ENE at 10 AM we proceeded on our Journey and arrived at a Canadian House. a Mr Thobourn Master. we tarried about one hour and a half and then proceeded on Journey, till 6 1/4 PM put up a small shower of rain in the Evening."

June 3
" Thursday Wind NE Cloudy weather with smart showers of rain at times. at 4 in the Morning we set of again and put up about 8 PM weather then cleared."

June 4
" Friday Wind Northerly a middling breeze overcast weather. about 4 AM we proceeded on our Journey and about 1 PM we arrived at and found Cumberland House in a very poor Situation for Provisions &c. The Indians all waiting my Arival expecting me to bring some Liquor which very Luckily I did from Manchester House not expecting I should have much use for it there if I had not brought it I suppose some of the Indians would have left the house so through it I persuaded 5 Canoes to accompany us down with furrs."

June 5
" Saturday Wind Westerly a moderate breeze middling clear weather. the Indians drunk the men employed mending their Canoes &c but not any thing to live upon here but what we have brought here. Mitchell Oman and another Canoes arrived from the South Branch."

June 6
" Sunday Wind Northerly a very hard Gale. Malchom Rofs employed trading a few skins."

June 7
" Monday Wind Westerly a middling breeze traded a few skins from Indians as before. the men employed packing furrs and mending Canoes. also 2 Indian Canoes embarked with 8 bundles for York Factory."

June 8
" Tuesday Wind Northerly a moderate breeze fine weather. 10 Canoes of English men embarked their Cargoes 122 Bundles and Pimmeecon the rest packing furrs and getting their Canoes in Readinefs."

June 9
" Wednesday Wind WbN a moderate breeze clear weather. about 2 PM 14 Canoes of Englishmen and 3 Canoes of Indians embarked, the whole of their Cargoes 173 Bundles. we was obliged to leave 112 Bundles behind for want of Canoes and men to carry them down. at 8 PM we put up about 24 Miles below the House. Malchom Rofs and myself made an overhaul of the Trading Goods &c. Left Mr Turnor in Charge. I believe by all account if the Goods Mr Hudson had. had been more. they would all have been done. Mr Turnor would have proceeded on the Northward Expedition, but there was not wherewith to supply him in such Articles as he wanted. If Malchom Rofs had kept the Charge as before undoubtedly your Expedition would have been forwarded this spring. also left 3 Men with Mr Turnor, but not any Provisions in the House so that they must look out for themselves.
a Mr Monture informed me at the South Branch that a Mr McKenzie senior last spring proceeded down a river (on which their farthest Northern Settlement is) to (by their Account) the Sea Coast of Hudson's Bay where the water rose and fell, and they saw great plenty of Ice. I could not learn the particulars, they keeping it a Secret. they Returned in the fall to their House."

June 10
" Thursday Wind Westerly a middling breeze clear sultry weather. at 3 AM we proceeded on our Journey till 3 PM then Thunder and Rain which obliged us to put up. we pafsed by Mr Monture at work at U. Basque-au building a house to hold provisions in for the Northward Canoes."

June 11
" Friday Wind NW a very stiff breeze with flying clouds. at 3 AM we proceeded on our voyage and 5 PM put up at an old french house in the mouth of the Cedar Lake."

June 12
" Saturday Wind Northerly a middling stiff breeze with small showers of Rain. we was obliged to lay by the whole day."

June 13
" Sunday Wind NE a middling breeze clear weather. at 3 AM we set of paddling and Sailing and in the Evening we put up at the Great Fall, where we found the Canoes that where of before us."

June 14
" Monday Wind Easterly a middling breeze overcast weather. In the Morning a little before 3 We began to carry and about 5 We began to Shoot the Canoes down. we had the Misfortune to have one a little broke but nothing in her Damaged. 2 Canoes not yet come up. we parted with them in the Branches of Sas-kach-e-wan. when we came down the bottom of the Fall we put up much fatigued with Carrying &c. found 3 Canoes of Southward Indians here waiting for our Arrival, to accompany us to York Factory with furrs of their own. In the Evening the 2 Canoes that were behind came up."

June 15
" Tuesday Wind Variable a moderate breeze clear weather. at 4 1/2 AM we proceeded on in the Great Lake and at 8 PM put up."

June 16
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as before but a little squally. at 3 AM we proceeded on our Journey and about 8 PM we put up again."

June 17
" Thursday Wind Westerly a moderate breeze clear weather. at 3 AM we proceeded on our Journey and got out of the Great Lake and put up at a place of Rendezvous for Indians but not any did we find here. I never knew this place to have mifs'd 'till this time. the few that was with myself I gave them some Brandy to drink."

June 18
" Friday Wind Easterly a moderate breeze clear weather. we laid by this day drying and repairing our Canoes."

June 19
" Saturday Wind North a moderate breeze fine clear weather. about 4 AM we proceeded on our pafsage and at 8 1/2 AM we put up between 2 small Rivers."

June 20
" Sunday Wind Northerly a middling stiff breeze weather cloudy and squally with showers of rain at times. at 8 AM we proceeded on our pafsage and about 8 in the Evening we put up again sometimes paddling sometimes sailing."

June 21
" Monday Wind NW a middling breeze clear weather. at 3 AM we proceeded on our Voyage. about Noon arrived at a place called the White fall where we carried over and then put up. the water very shallow. It never was known to be lefs in this part of the Country, and God knows how we shall get down."

June 22
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as before. at 3 AM we proceeded on our Voyage sailing and paddling. went a long way Carried over 3 Carrying places and at 9 PM put up. some of our Canoes accompanied by Mr Isham went on in the Night they never let me know where they was to put up or any thing about it: a Master upon this Road is regarded as Nothing. the same as I have mentioned before. I am not distrusting Mr Isham's Abilities in knowing the Road, but in case any Accident should happen to any of my Canoes, your honor's will not blame me. as I was once blamed about Magnes Sclater, who, was for a while lost. but if you will please to examine my Journal of Hudson House you will find me blamelefs."

June 23
" Wednesday Wind Northerly a middling breeze clear weather. at 3 AM we proceeded on Sailing and about Noon we saw some Indians that had just arrived from York Factory. they fired Guns to bring us too, and 3 Canoes went acrofs to them, they asked me if I had any Liquor. I told them yes but I wanted some of them to come down with us, and I would give them a little to drink, and would pay them, for their trouble to Pilot us to the best water, on the falls. so this Evening I ended my small Remains of Liquor."

June 24
" Thursday Wind Variable a middling breeze. we laid by at the Trout River waiting for my Indian Pilots which I believe will be required more this Year than ever was known."

June 25
" Friday Wind Easterly a middling stiff breeze cloudy weather. we lay by all this day the wind blowing too hard and the River being shoal."

June 26
" Saturday Wind the same with a little snow in the Morning and in the Afternoon a little Rain. laid by all day as before."

June 27
" Sunday Wind and Weather still the same. we could not proceed down the River for fear of breaking our Canoes. I wanted to hire 2 Bungee Canoes to accompany us, and I gave them a little Liquor, but when they had drunken it they declined going."

June 28
" Monday Wind the same but more boisterous than before."

June 29
" Tuesday Wind NW a moderate breeze clear weather. at 3 AM we proceeded on our Voyage got safe down the Trout River damaged 2 Canoes the water being lefs than ever was known since we was going this road. how we shall get down I cannot tell. but I am greatly afraid that our Canoes will be all broke before we reach the Factory. also 3 Men cut their feet much, which I am afraid will not be able to return. We put up in the Knee Lake, about 8 PM. in the above shoal River we had 6 Carrying places where never was but 3. received one Doe Moose from the Indians."

June 30
" Wednesday Wind NE a middling stiff breeze clear weather. about 3 in the Morning we proceeded on our Voyage through the Knee Lake and put up at the Jack River about 6 PM. the water very shallow as before. we had a very hard day's paddle."

July 1 1790
" Thursday Wind Westerly a middling breeze clear weather. about 3 AM we proceeded on our Journey down the Jack River where we carried over 4 Carrying places and a little below the last fall we found one of our Canoes that was a head that had been wrecked on the fall. and broke in 3 pieces. the Men and furrs saved. their own things was lost. also the Tent and some other small things. but it is the way of a great many of your honor's Servants that will not obey a Master when he does order him. if proper Orders had been kept amongst us undoubtedly this Accident had not happened now, although the water is shallower than ever was known. Mr Isham was a head, which I looked upon him to be their Superior but he told them to go as he did and not to go a head in that manner but they never took any notice of what he said. only 2 Canoes. we put up at the Sandy bay at the last little Lake called the swampy one, a little above the Hill River where we found our men laying that had been running a head."

July 2
" Friday Wind NE a moderate breeze clear weather. the Men laying by mending their Canoes &c."

July 3
" Saturday Wind SE a moderate breeze clear weather. about 4 AM we proceeded on our Voyage down the Hill river carried over 10 Carrying Places; and handing places I cannot tell how many. Damaged our Canoes greatly through the Shallownefs of the Water. about 8 PM we put up."

July 4
" Sunday Wind Northerly a middling breeze overcast weather. about 3 AM we proceeded on as before. Carried over 8 Carrying places. and handed at several places. we put up about 5 PM to pitch and repair our Canoes at the last Carrying place in the Hill River. we came down in 4 Sundry Gangs because this River is long and very bad."

July 5
" Monday Wind Northerly a moderate breeze cloudy weather. about 3 AM we proceeded down the Hill River from? the last Carrying place we had a Continuance of small shoal falls where there was never any known before since we have been going inland, and God knows which way we are to return for I am not sure whether we shall be able or no to return this way. we put up in Hill River about 7 PM."

July 6
" Tuesday Wind NbE a middling breeze cloudy weather and cold. about 3 AM we proceeded on our Voyage down Hill & Hayes Rivers. found the Rivers very shallow with small ripling falls. we put up about 5 in the Evening about 8 miles above the Factory. met 16 factory men going up to raft down firewood and 3 Men to fish."

July 7
" Wednesday Wind Easterly Gentle Breeze weather Clear. at 5 1/2 AM embarked. at 7 1/2 AM arrived at York Factory. all well."


" Journal from York Factory to Cumberland House
by James Tate."

July 25 1789
" Saturday Myself and 4 more Canoes of Englishmen embarked at 10 AM paddled 'till the 12 miles Island then began tracking. proceeded forward and put up 2 miles below Penny-cut-way River at 7 1/2 PM. cloudy brisk Gale of wind from the South West."

July 26
" Sunday Began tracking at 4 AM and put up 4 miles below Steel River at 8 PM. Wind Variable from East to West, dark Cloudy day with a shower at 10 AM."

July 27
" Monday Start at 5 AM tracked to the half Creek Steel River. there we was obliged to put up at 3 PM for heavy Rain. flying showers of Rain.Wind Variable all round the Compafs. Water in the River was very little."

July 28
" Tuesday Start at 5 AM tracked 'till Rain obliged us to put up at 11 AM loaded again at 12 and proceeded forward 'till we was again forced to put up at Hill River mouth at 4 PM for heavy Rain. Wind NNE in the Morning then in the Afternoon Thunder Lightning very heavy Rain."

July 29
" Wednesday Rose at 4 AM made a Good fire to dry Tent Leather Sail Cloaths &c &c. then proceeded forwards at 7 AM went on 'till 8 PM then put up full half way to first fall Hill River. fine clear Day Wind NNW small breeze."

July 30
" Thursday Start at 4 AM and put up first fall Hill River at 4 PM served out an Allowance of Brandy. fine Clear day. Wind NE finished tracking."

July 31
" Friday Rose and loaded at 4 AM paddled and Carried and put up at Brafsey's Fall at 7 PM pafsed 2 Carrying places. fine clear day wind at NE small breeze."

Aug. 1 1789
" Saturday Rose and Loaded at 4 AM paddled and Carried and put up at the Mofsey Carrying place at 6 PM. fine clear day Wind NE small Breezes."

Aug. 2
" Sunday Rose and loaded at 4 AM handed, paddled and Carried. overtook the 3 Canoes that went the day before at the last carrying place Hill River at 11 AM paddled in Company 'till we was all obliged to put up for rain at 2 PM which continued all night; fine all forenoon Wind SW. served out the 3 Canoes an Allowance of Brandy."

Aug. 3
" Monday Set of at 11 AM handed paddled and Carried 'till we came to the Long Carrying Place. Jack River. put up there at 8 PM Wind Variable from SE to NW Cloudy day."

Aug. 4
" Tuesday Start at 4 AM handed paddled and Carried thro' the Jack River, came up with the other 8 Canoes that set of 2 Days before us. at 1 PM sail'd all in Company thro' part of the Knee Lake, 'till we was forced to put up for Thunder Lightning and heavy Rain at 5 PM a thick dark sky all day. wind Variable. served out Allowance of Brandy to the 8 Canoes."

Aug. 5
" Wednesday Set of at 1 PM sailed and paddled till 9 at Night then put up. Thick dark Cloudy day rain in the Morning and showry in the Afternoon. Wind NW met 2 Indian Canoes going to York Fort."

Aug. 6
" Thursday Rose at 4 AM paddled till we came to the Trout River then handed, Carried and paddled thro' the river and put up at the Sandy bay Holy Lake at 7 PM. Dark Cloudy day but fair wind West. Water in this River very shoal."

Aug. 7
" Friday Forced to lay by all day to dry Canoes Goods &c. James Flett and James Morowick had each of their Canoes broke and 2 Bundles wetted. weather clear then cloudy and Rain towards Night. wind Variable."

Aug. 8
" Saturday Set of at 6 AM paddled 'till 11 AM then put up on an Island in the Holy Lake the wind blowing high from SW rain in the Morning then blew a stiff Gale from SW."

Aug. 9
" Sunday Lay by all day it blowing hard from SW fine day high wind from SW."

Aug. 10
" Monday lay by all day 'till 6 PM then loaded . the wind turned rather calm paddled 'till 12 at Night then put up. high wind from the West 'till 5 PM then turned rather Calm. clear day."

Aug. 11
" Tuesday Rose at 3 AM paddled handed Carried and went over the Lake Carrying place and put up at 7 PM. part Clear part Cloudy with a strong Gale from the WSW blew fresh."

Aug. 12
" Wednesday Rose at 4 AM paddled 'till we came to the painted Stone then put up at 8 PM fine clear day wind Variable. Served out an Allowance of Brandy to the men."

Aug. 13
" Thursday Rose loaded at 4 AM sailed and paddled and put up at the Piper's point at 8 PM fine all day a good breeze from the NE."

Aug. 14
" Friday Rose at 4 AM handed paddled and Carried sometimes sail'd 'till we came to the Play Green where we put up at 6 PM fine all day with a smart breeze from NW traded a little Liquor with the Natives for some Meat and a few furrs."

Aug. 15
" Saturday Rose at 5 AM paddled and Sailed and entered the Great Lake at 11 AM put up 6 miles past the Mofsey point at 2 PM the wind blowing fresh from the West part Clear part Cloudy fresh breezes from SW to NW."

Aug. 16
" Sunday Start at 4 AM paddled 'till 7 AM then put ashore, the wind blowing fresh from the West. loaded again at 2 PM paddled 'till 11 PM then put up at the Sandy Carrying place. Great Lake. part Clear part Cloudy wind variable from West to EbN."

Aug. 17
" Monday Rose and loaded at 4 AM paddled and sailed untill 3 PM then put up. the wind blowing fresh from the SW. hid a Large Brandy Keg to trade with the Indians at the play Green in the down going to York Factory clear fine day wind SW to NE."

Aug. 18
" Tuesday Loaded at 6 AM paddled and sailed untill 10 AM then we was obliged to put up. the wind blowing hard from the NE cloudy thick dark day Wind NE."

Aug. 19
" Wednesday Lay by all day the wind blowing hard from the SE fine clear day."

Aug. 20
" Thursday Loaded at 4 AM paddled till we came to the Great fall. at 8 AM carried part over. found the black Indian at the Great fall Cargo all safe and 6 frenchmen that had been at Cumberland House met us, in order to help us. they wanting to join our service. Thunder and rain at times Wind Southerly blew little."

Aug. 21
" Friday Carried over at 11 AM lay by the rest of the day to get things in order. Cloudy. rain at times. Wind SW. Sand flies very troublesome."

Aug. 22
" Saturday left the Great Fall at 4 AM paddled handed and Carried 'till we came to the point of Rocks. Cedar Lake then put up at 6 PM traded a little meat and a few furrs with the Natives. Divided the Meat equally between all the Canoes and the 6 Frenchmen. likewise served out an Allowance of Brandy to all both french and English. part Clear part Cloudy with ? strong breeze from NW."

Aug. 23
" Sunday Stayed to trade with the Natives untill 10 AM then set of and paddled 'till 8 PM then put up. fine clear Morning. Cloudy Afternoon and wnd from the NW."

Aug. 24
" Monday Rose at 4 AM paddled 'till we came to the old french house Cedar Lake which was at 10 AM then put up in order to trade with the Natives. traded with them furrs and Victuals. wind very rough from the NW Clear. shared the Victualls equally amongst the Canoes."

Aug. 25
" Tuesday Rose and began paddling at 4 AM paddled 'till we got to the burnt woods at 8 PM. a few Indians there traded a little meat with them for Liquor. very hot. little or no wind. shared the meat equally amongst the Canoes."

Aug. 26
" Wednesday Rose at 3 AM sailed and paddled 'till 8 PM then put up. Wind Variable from North to South fine Morning Cloudy Afternoon with Thunder."

Aug. 27
" Thursday Rose at 4 AM paddled 'till 7 PM then put up. Dark Cloudy Day. Wind Variable Thunder Lightning very vivid almost all night."

Aug. 28
" Friday Rose at 6 AM paddled and Sailed 'till Night at 8 PM then put up. fine clear day wind NW."

Aug. 29
" Saturday Rose at 4 AM paddled and sailed and all arrived at Cumberland House Cargoes all safe save James Flett Jun. who came the following day. Fine day Wind SE."


" William Walker"


B.121/a/4


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