July 22 1791
" Friday Wind NW a fresh Gale with Rain at times. in the afternoon embarked eight Canoes for the upper Settlements and got the rest all ready for embarking."

July 23
" Saturday Wind Nly a fresh Breeze Cloudy Weather till Noon afterwards Clear. Embarked eight Canoes for the upper Settlements; one of the Men that went away yesterday fell by and two Men return'd with him in the Night after proceeding 16 Miles."

July 24
" Sunday Wind Sly a fresh Breeze Weather Clear and Cloudy alternately. - At two AM Mr Walker and self embarked for the upper Settlements accompanied by six Men in two Canoes. Paddled and tracked till six PM then put up 1 Mile above Pennycutway River. I have told Mr Joseph Colen to convey Goods up to the first carrying place next Spring if pofsible. John Forbis who was overheated the other day is now in Company and well."

July 25
" Monday Wind SW a fresh Gale Weather Cloudy with Rain till 8 AM at half past nine we embarked, tracked till 6 PM then put up 4 Miles before Steel River. Thundered and rained very much in the evening."

July 26
" Tuesday Wind Nly a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy with Rain till ten AM; at eleven we embarked and tracked till 7 PM then put up 16 Miles up Steel River."

July 27
" Wednesday Wind variable fresh Breezes thick foggy morning afterwards clear Weather. at five AM we embarked, and tracked till Noon, then came up, with all that was on head one Canoe very much damaged and part of her loading got Wet. which we dried and put every thing in proper order. One of the Indians burst a new four foot trading Gun, Wilson 89, but fortunately received no hurt. Killed a few Deer to day.
Found the Cheese served out so bad that it was not eatable gave it no farther carriage."

July 28
" Thursday Wind in the South quarter a gentle Breeze Weather Clear and Cloudy alternately. at five AM we proceeded and at six entered the Hill River tracked till 6 PM then put up. Many Deer crofsing the River but did not kill any to day."

July 29
" Friday Wind NE a small Breeze with heavy Rain attended with Thunder from half past 3 AM till Nine; in which time we had a rise of Water in the River above 14 inches perpendicular obliged to lay by to let the Water run off which is going at the rate of seven Miles an Hour."

July 30
" Saturday Wind Nly a small Breeze first part foggy latter part clear Weather; at five AM we embarked Paddled and tracked till 6 PM then put up above the first carrying Place very strong rapid Current."

July 31
" Sunday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. At five AM divided the Canoes and put them in three seperate parties, so that they should not incumber one another on the carrying places; as also for the safety of the Canoes. Paddled handed and carried till 4 PM then put up, it being Sunday.
The Brandy Kegs are very leaky; some of which has already lost a Gallon. I have just now drawed one off into small Kegs, and find the lofs very much for so short a time; the Honorable Company bears the lofs, for which I am sorry it is not in my power to prevent."

Aug. 1 1791
" Monday Wind NW a fresh Breeze with clear Weather till 3 PM afterwards heavy shower of Rain; at half past four AM we embarked Paddled, handed and carried till 3 PM then put up, the two first divisions on head."

Aug. 2
" Tuesday Wind Southerly a fresh Breeze Weather Clear and Cloudy alternately; at four AM we proceeded. Paddled, handed and carried till 6 PM then put up to Pitch our Canoes."

Aug. 3
" Wednesday Wind variable Weather Cloudy with heavy Rain at times. at seven AM we proceeded, Paddled, handed and carried till ten then obliged to put a shore for the Rain. at two PM put off again and Paddled till five then put up in the Swampy Lake, where we found all those that was on head all well."

Aug. 4
" Thursday Wind Northerly a fresh Gale with a thick foggy morning afterwards a clear day. At 7 AM we embarked Paddled handed and carried till 7 PM then put up six Miles through Maskechequan Lake."

Aug. 5
" Friday Wind SW a fresh Breeze with clear Weather. Did not proceed, busy pitching and repairing Canoes."

Aug. 6
" Saturday Wind W by N first part a thick fogg latter part clear and blowed fresh. at 3 AM we embarked & Paddled till five PM then put up at the Trout Fall, having got above fifty Miles to day."

Aug. 7
" Sunday Wind variable from West to North first part clear latter part Cloudy with Rain. at five AM we embarked Paddled, handed and carried till 2 PM then put up at the entrance of Pethe pow winnepee or deep Water Lake."

Aug. 8
" Monday Wind NE a small Breeze with Cloudy Weather. at half past three we embarked and Paddled till 7 PM then put up four Miles short of the Side-Pine."

Aug. 9
" Tuesday Wind NW a moderate Breeze with fine Weather. at three AM we embarked, Paddled and carried till 6 PM then put up in the white Fall carrying place. served the Men out one quart of Brandy each Mefs, as they had a very hard days Work."

Aug. 10
" Wednesday Wind SW a fresh Breeze Weather as yesterday. at half past four AM we proceeded to Each ewe mamis, carried over and paddled down the River till 6 PM then put up."

Aug. 11
" Thursday Wind SSW a stiff Breeze with clear Weather. At four AM we embarked and Paddled till 4 PM then put up on the Sea River carrying place; to wait for six Canoes which are behind."

Aug. 12
" Friday Wind variable from SE to NW first part Cloudy with heavy showers of Rain. at four AM we proceeded and Paddled till eight, then obliged to put ashore, at ten put off again, Paddled till 1 PM then put up at the Crofs Lake not being able to crofs over."

Aug. 13
" Saturday Wind Nly and blowed very hard Cloudy Weather. At 10 AM we embarked, Sailed and paddled till 3 PM then put up at the Randesvou Lake, here we found several Tents of Indians most of whom are come from the Canadian House at the Poplar River, from these I traded a few Parchment Beaver, some Shoe Leather and 326 lb Provisions of sorts. All the Indians that have been down this Year complain much of Guns bursting, this I believe to be true as some has already burst in company and others are afraid to Shoot for fear of getting lamed and not be able to get up to their own Country."

Aug. 14
" Sunday Wind NbE a fresh Breeze Weather part Cloudy part Clear. At Noon the six Canoes came up that was behind. the occasion of their delay was, Gilbert Laughton being very ill for two days of the Country distemper. At 1 PM we embarked, Paddled and Sailed till 8 PM then put up eight Miles round the Mofsy point. Two Indian Canoes did not come up."

Aug. 15
" Monday Wind variable from N to SE blowed fresh. At four AM we embarked and Paddled till 3 PM then obliged to put up, there being much swell in the Lake."

Aug. 16
" Tuesday Wind variable between W and S a stiff Gale with clear Weather. Could not proceed."

Aug. 17
" Wednesday Wind Sly a stiff Gale Weather as yesterday. At 6 AM carried over the carrying place and proceeded to the long Point then put up as it blowed with much swell in the Lake."

Aug. 18
" Thursday Wind NNW a fresh Breeze Clear Weather. At 6 AM we proceeded, Sailed and paddled till 7 PM then put up at the bottom of the great Fall, here we found three of the Swan River Indians; from these I had 180 lb of dried Moose Flesh and 14 lb of Fatt."

Aug. 19
" Friday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. At half past 4 AM we proceeded up the Fall, finding it practicable by the small quantity of Water coming down; but an unforeseen accident happened; which was, Mr Walker's Canoe took a sheer out, by which one Man was drowned, the Canoe broken and most part of the Cargoe lost, and had it not been for the dexterity of James Tate & Edw'd Wishart, who put off in a half loaded Canoe, and saved the life of James Sanderson who kep hold of the Wreck; but the unfortunate Archibald Copeland was never seen after the Canoe swamped. Mr Walker was upon the Line himself and was taken off his Feet so suddenly that he was depriv'd of his Senses with the bruises he receiv'd amongst the Rocks and had it not been for John Forbis would have shared the same fate as the unfortunate John Linklatter by a turn of the tracking Line which he could not clear himself of. Myself with James Sanderson went several times out into the Lake in search of the Man, as also of the Goods but saw nothing. In the evening carried over then put up."

Aug. 20
" Saturday Wind Wly a stiff Gale with Thunder and Rain towards evening; did not proceed as it blowed hard and the Men much fatigued. late last night 14 Canoes arrived from the great carrying place going to the North'd. I begged the favour of Mr MacCloude who was the Master over them at that time to take the trouble to carry the Twine and Net Lines requested by Mr Turnor; but he gave me no answer."

Aug. 21
" Sunday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze with clear Wea. At half past four AM embarked, Paddled, handed & Set with Poles till half past five PM then put up in the Cedar Lake."

Aug. 22
" Monday Wind Sly first part Cloudy and moderate latter part blowed a strong Gale from the NW. At 7 AM we embarked and Paddled till ten then put up as it blowed hard with much swell."

Aug. 23
" Tuesday Wind variable from S to NW a strong Gale with clear Weather. Could not proceed - Thundered and Lightned much in the night. In the afternoon two Canoes of Bungee Indians came to us before the Wind, from whom I traded 167 lb of dried Provisions for Brandy & Ammunition."

Aug. 24
" Wednesday Wind variable Cloudy Wea. with Rain. At four AM we embarked Paddled and Sailed till Noon then put a shore for the Rain; at four PM put off again and paddled till eight then put up in the muddy Lake."

Aug. 25
" Thursday Wind Wly a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy with Rain in the evening. - At four AM we embarked and Paddled till half past five PM then put up in the main Branch of Sas kach a wan River."

Aug. 26
" Friday Wind Nly a fresh Gale thick Weather with small Rain most part of the day - At 4 AM we embarked and Paddled till 5 PM then put up."

Aug. 27
" Saturday Wind variable in the West quarter first part Cloudy latter part clear and blowed fresh - At 4 AM we embarked, at seven put a shore at O Basquea where I traded 288 lb of dried Provisions from the Bungees at the French House; then put off again and Paddled till 6 PM then put up."

Aug. 28
" Sunday Wind SSW a fresh Breeze with clear Weather. At 4 AM we embarked and Paddled till 6 PM then put up five Miles below the little River. Several of the Canoes did not come up."

Aug. 29
" Monday Wind variable in the West quarter fresh Gales with heavy showers of Rain in the afternoon. - At 4 AM we embarked and Paddled till 2 PM then arrived at Cumberland House with nine Canoes more, found Magnus Twatt and those with him all well, but not one days full allowance of Provisions for all hands; no Indian having visited this place during the Summer, all for want of Liquor."


" From Mr Philip Turnor
Isle a la Crofs May 24th 1791
Sir
By the arrival of Mr Shaw at this place I had the happinefs of receiving your favor of Feb. 20th as likewise my Letters from England. I am sorry to hear You are so badly off for Provisions - I have not receiv'd any fresh instructions from the Honble Company, therefore must proceed to the best of my judgement according to circumstances; as to erecting a House I am well convinced of the Utility, but we have no People to leave at it; after I heard You was come out again; tho I am very unfit for the purpose, I would have waited upon You, had we had as much Provision as would have carried us twelve Days; but we never had so much as would have carried us two days. it would have given me, and I suppose You, much satisfaction could we have met and consulted; but as that happinefs could not be attained, can only regret it and act to the best of my abilities - We have had a very mild Winter but have been badly off for Provisions living a great deal upon froze Fish; but thank God we are all very healthy at present and in as fare a way as we could expect - I shall conclude with wishing prosperity to the Honble Companys affairs and Health and succefs to You and all under You and am with due respect
Your humble Servant
Philip Turnor
Mr Rofs joins me in Compliments to all the Gents at York Factory.
PS. We think You may dispence with sending the Twine as we think we can do without it."

Aug. 30
" Tuesday Wind variable from SW to NW Weather part clear part Cloudy. - At 8 AM two Canoes arrived and at Noon all the others came, all safe thank God, traded a little dried Provisions that was laying in the House unpaid for and gave those a little Liquor that accompanied us up with Goods. Set two old fishing Nets."

Aug. 31
" Wednesday Wind NW a fresh Breeze with clear Weather. Some of the People employed taking the Pitch off their Canoes in order to make them lighter, the rest drying wet Packages. Mr Walker, Bird and myself opened above 20 Packages several of which did not agree with the Invoice received. in the evening three Bungee Indians arrived from OBasquea for Credit. Seven small Fish from the Nets."

Sept. 1 1791
" Thursday Wind SSW a small Breeze fine clear Weather. the People employed repairing and packing Goods for the upper Settlements, gave the Bungees Credit and they went away. in the evening two Canoes of Hunters arrived brought as much Moose flesh as enabled me? to serve out 16 lb to each Mefs.
8 small Fish from the Nets."

Sept. 2
" Friday Wind variable squally Weather with rain in the evening. to Men working a Sturgeon Net, the rest pitching and repairing Canoes, also repacking Goods for the upper Settlements. we are now detained by the non arrival of the Indians that went up the North River Track and which is still worse, no Provisions to serve out to the Men."

Sept. 3
" Saturday Wind Ely a fresh Gale Weather Cloudy with Rain at times. two Men a Net making and the rest making ready for embarking for the upper Settlements.
A few small Fish from the Nets to day."

Sept. 4
" Sunday Wind NE a stiff Gale Weather as yesterday till the evening then more moderate. got seven Canoes ready to embark tomorrow for Manchester House, please God, Wind and Weather permit. in the evening three Canoes arrived brought some dried Provisions."

Sept. 5
" Monday Wind NNE with a continuance of Blowing Weather. could not embark any Canoes for the upper Settlements being on a Lee shore. at 4 PM John Irvin Sen., Jas. Linklatter, Charles Tuffel Delair and Anthony Godda arrived from the swampy carrying place where they landed their Cargoes safe according to their agreement at York Factory, indeed I must say its his own fault that those Men did not continue with him; had he not quarrelled with the aforementioned Canadians and otherwise gave them Language such as they had not been used with which I believe for the time to come will prevent all other Canadians from entering in to your Honors Service in this quarter. - His Proud sulky Temper will never entitle him to be beloved by those that are under him; if he had not been so delitary on his pafsage he would not have had reason to complain of his Mens refusing to carry the Goods over the carrying place."

Sept. 6
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. Sent ten Men in two Canoes to fetch two Moose that were killed last evening; they return'd in the afternoon, traded a little Provisions from those who arrived on the 4 instant and gave them credit."

Sept. 7
" Wednesday Wind Ely a small Breeze with Cloudy Weather. At 5 AM embarked seven Canoes for Manchester House under the care of James Tate, also Mr Walker with five more for the South Branch in which James Flett Sen. and William Groundwater afsists up, who are to return back to Cumberland House with the tracking Lines and Birchrind for two Canoes, two more Canoes with myself being obliged to wait the arrival of six Canoes of Indians from York Factory as a great part of the dry Goods for Manchester House are with them."

Sept. 8
" Thursday Wind SE a small Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear. - Sent twelve Men to the point above to collect stuff for laying a foundation for a new House. one Man making a Net one Man ailing. - Trusted several Indians a little debt and they went away; all of which has promised to bring in Provisions as soon as they procure any."

Sept.9
" Friday Wind NW a strong Gale with flying showers at times. two Men making Nets two repairing an old one, the rest I did not put to Work, as they have a long Journey to perform. Last night Mr Shaw a Canadian Trader arrived with ten Canoes - he informs me that Mr MacTurvis and Mr Small two of the principal Partners have left off businefs in this Country and are gone home to reside in England, one with 20 Thousand and the other with 14 Thousand Pounds, the most part of which they have gain'd the last four Years, he also informs me that Mr MacTurvis was in England last year, by which they receiv'd great benifit in the sale of their Furrs; he also was at Mr Pitt to have their Goods brought to this Country by way of Hudson's Bay but Mr Pitt told him no monopoly could be broken without an act of Parliament, for which reason they could land no Goods in Hudsons Bay; he says they have eleven Canoes of Goods more in the Country this year then last besides two Years Goods to the Northward. I have sent by Mr Shaw for Mr Turnor one Quire of Paper and a Marble Cover Book of one Quire which he sent for last Spring by Mr MacKenzie but not desire any Twine to be sent as he thought he could do without it."

Sept. 10
" Saturday Wind variable light Breezes first part clear latter part Cloudy. - Sent Mag. Twatt, John Ballenden and John Davey to hew Sleepers for the new House, and at Noon went over myself and measured out the ground for the House, 64 feet long and 24 wide, - in the evening three Canoes arrived with Goods from York Factory, having left the others some time ago being very much in want of Provisions; opened several of the Packages found them very dry, but mistakes in packing."

Sept. 11
" Sunday Wind SE a small Breeze Weather part clear part Cloudy with rain at intervals. Sent off six Men in two Canoes for Manchester House."

Sept. 12
" Monday Wind NW a strong Gale Weather Cloudy with flying showers. - One Man working a Net and the rest fell firewood for Winter use. - This Jobb was neglected last Spring which will make it more Laborious for the few Men here."

Sept. 13
" Tuesday Wind NW a stiff Gale Weather for the most part Cloudy. - One Man a Net making, two at the Nets brought 4 small Sturgeon, Mag. Twatt and two more at the new Settlement hewing stuff for sleepers. - At noon sent all hands to afsist to carry them to the place where they are to be laid - in the evening three Indian Canoes arrived with Goods from York Factory which I opened, having got wet this day by shipping Water in this Lake. In one Package was five Pound of chocolate, Hatchets, Ice Chizzels, Knives and Tobacco, the Tobacco and Choclate mixed together by which a good part of the latter is wasted. - gave the Indians a little Liquor and they got drunk."

Sept. 14
" Wednesday Wind Sly a fresh Breeze with clear Weather at eight AM got all ready and embarked for Manchester House, Paddled and Sailed till half past six then put up, and have left the following Persons at Cumberland House. viz. Magnus Twatt in charge, Will Sabbiston to afsist him, John Davy, John Ballenden, Wm Hawkland and Halcro Smith also James Flett Sen. and William Groundwater who are to return from the South Branch."

Sept. 15
" Thursday Wind Nly a small Breeze with clear fine Wea. At 3 AM we embarked, Paddled and set with Poles till half past six PM then put up. - in the evening pafsed by one Tent of Indians; from these I had a little Provisions; also a Note they had for some they gave to the Canoes that pafsed by last evening which I paid them for. At 3 AM three Canadian Canoes came up with us and kept Company all day."

Sept. 16
" Friday Wind SE a fresh Breeze Weather as yesterday. At 4 AM we proceeded tracked and Paddled till 7 PM then put up."

Sept. 17
" Saturday Wind variable first part hazy latter part blowed hard NW - At half past four we proceeded paddled and tracked till 6 PM then put up - have not seen the Canadian Canoes since yesterday at Noon, these and seven more are to Winter beside Manchester House."

Sept. 18
" Sunday Wind Nly a strong Gale Weather Cloudy with Rain alternately. - At half past four AM we embarked Paddled and tracked till 6 PM then put up."

Sept. 19
" Monday Wind in the North quarter fresh Breezes with Cloudy Cold Weather. - At 5 AM we proceeded and tracked till half past 5 PM then put up."

Sept. 20
" Tuesday Wind Wly a fresh Breeze with clear Weather and a sharp frost last night. - At 5 AM we proceeded and tracked till 6 PM then put up - in the evening pafsed by several Tents of Indians from which I had a small supply of Provisions."

Sept. 21
" Wednesday Wind Nly a small Breeze with Cloudy Wea. At 5 AM we embarked and tracked till 6 PM then put up. At noon pafsed by the South Branch."

Sept. 22
" Thursday Wind variable between W and North fresh Breezes Weather Cloudy and clear alternately - At 5 AM we proceeded, tracked till Noon, afterwards Paddled till 5 PM then put up. - at 3 PM came up with the two Canoes that embarked three days before us."

Sept. 23
" Friday Wind Nly a stiff Breeze with Cloudy Weather at times Rain - At half past four AM we embarked track'd and Paddled till 6 PM then put up at Hudsons House."

Sept. 24
" Saturday Wind as yesterday Weather Cloudy most part of the day. - At 5 AM we proceeded as before, till 6 PM then put up at the crofsing place, here we found John Sabbiston waiting our arrival also William Duncan and Alex. Johnson from the South Branch with a Letter from Mr Walker which informs me of his safe arrival on the 17 instant and found all well. - traded some Provisions and 16 Beaver Skins lately killed from Indians tenting here; also some Pitch for Canoes."


" From Mr Wm Walker
S. Branch House Sept. 20th 1791
Dear Sir,
On the 17th We arrived all safe thank God where I found all well; but a small stock of Provisions 28 B in Furrs and Plenty of Birchrind; but whether it be good or not I cannot tell until such time that we work upon it; I shall obey your orders in sending down some according to your desire - Our Gardens are very poor owing to the drynefs of the Season. I suppose We have about 50 Cabbage which used to be our chief stand by.
I have trusted the day Child and all his Family and now all that I have to look out for is a good Hunter.
If I can get Provisions I must have a little Work done in making preparitions for Building which must be my first view; not altogether to consider my Mens ease & interest and not those whom I serve, for I am now afraid my House will fall, daily for the last year I was frighten'd to put any great Weight in the loft; when I did I could not open my Door so that it's plain it cannot be very strong. - Now I have nothing more to add but conclude wishing succefs to the Companys affairs, and every felicity to attend You and all under your Command, and so remain
Sir
Your obedient
& humble Servant
William Walker.
PS. James Sanderson is desirous to be remembered to You also my best respects to the Gentl'n of your Mefs."


" To Mr William Walker
Crofsing place Sept. 25th 1791
Dear Sir
Your kind favor of the 20th I receivd on the 24th which gave me great pleasure to hear of your safe arrival, as also of your finding every thing well at the House, which I wish to God I could say the same, poor Isaac Batt has suffered through his own folly as I am informed by an Indian but had they followed my directions he could have been alive and the Horses would not have been Stolen.
I am glad to hear You have got a middling stock of Birchrind, which there is not the least doubt but You will work up to the best advantage for the interest of our employers.
As to what necefsary duty is required to be done at the South Branch House You must be the best judge, and while You can find Provisions for your Men, they are by no means to refuse doing their duty without suffering for the same. - It was the 13th of September before Brafsy arrived at Cumberland House, and had every bundle to open and dry at the fire and repack them over again, and came away the next day. - I found several Bundles not agree with the Invoice receiv'd which will make me short in some things.- You will receive from the Bearer a third part of the Chocolate sent up; but being packed in a bundle with Hatchets, Knives, Ice Chizzels and Tobacco was all smashed to small bits with Tobacco, which I make no doubt You will still find some amongst it notwithstanding I picked all out I could find; so Conclude with wishing succefs to the Companys affairs, Health and happinefs to You and all under your Command and remain
Sir
Your obedient and
humble Servant
Wm Tomison."

Sept. 25
" Sunday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze Wea. Cloudy with rain at times - At 7 AM we embarked, as before till 5 PM then came up to the rest of our People; also four Men from Manchester House and two Tents of Indians; These have taken a little Birchrind and made a Large Leather Tent according to promise."

Sept. 26
" Monday Wind Sly a fresh Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear. - At 7 AM we proceeded tracked and paddled till 6 PM then put up. - Sent James Tate & John Ward by land to bring the Birchrind & Tent and Meat, if any to be got as there is but little at the House."

Sept. 27
" Tuesday Wind Ely a moderate Breeze Cloudy Weather. At 5 AM we embarked, Sailed, tracked and Paddled till half past 5 PM then put up."

Sept. 28
" Wednesday Wind NW a strong Gale clear Weather. at noon moderated and we proceeded as before till 6 PM then put up; blowed very hard in the night with Thunder and heavy showers of Rain."

Sept. 29
" Thursday Wind variable in the E quarter fresh Breezes Cloudy Weather and in the evening broke out a heavy rain. At 5 AM we proceeded paddled and tracked till 6 PM then put up a little below the fighting River - Several Canoes went a head."

Sept. 30
" Friday Wind WNW with a continual Storm which arose last night at half past seven, with Snow, and blowed down our Tents and tore one to Pieces; having no Woods to shelter us from the Storm."

Oct. 1 1791
" Saturday Wind NW and blowed very hard with cold freezing Weather. - At 7 AM we proceeded, tracked & paddled till 3 PM then put up as we could make but little way against Wind and Current."

Oct. 2
" Sunday Wind variable in the South quarter fresh breezes with Cold Weather. - At 5 AM we embarked tracked, Paddled and set with Poles till 6 PM then put up. in the evening pafsed by two Tents of French Canadians."

Oct. 3
" Monday Wind NW a stiff Gale with Cloudy Cold Weather. - At 6 AM we proceeded as before till half past 4 PM then arrived safe at Manchester House, thank God, where I heard the disagreeable and true account of the unfortunate end of Isaac Batt, in which he himself was highly culpable; as also James Gaddy. - The deceased made it up to go on hunting with two Villians that came to the Canadian House which had run away with other Mens Women, he took with him six good Horses two Guns and several other articles with a good leather Tent accompanied by John Thompson a Woman and three Boys - the Villains seeing their booty, having nothing of their own, in the time he was handing the Calimet to one, the other shot him through the head stripped him and the Woman of their cloaths and went off with the whole. What I blame James Gaddy for, is his suffering him to go a hunting on the South side of the River with such unknown Villains."

Oct. 4
" Tuesday Wind Wly a moderate Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear. - At noon an afsinnepoet Indian came for Tobacco which he got and went off again."

Oct. 5
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. At Noon two blackfeet Indians came for Tobacco which they got and went off immediately."

Oct. 6
" Thursday Wind NW a small Breeze Cloudy Wea. The Men variously employed - At noon the blackfeet Indians arrived, brought 1000 lb of Provisions which they traded and some of them went away, and one of the Nehe the wea Indians came for Tobacco."

Oct. 7
" Friday Wind variable first part Cloudy with Snow latter part clear Weather, - fitted out 19 Men to go for Pitch and to split stuff for Canoe Work and the rest variously employed. Mr Bird and myself finished opening the packages receiv'd from York Factory; several of which did not agree with the Invoice receiv'd; by this their accounts and ours will not agree some things being short and others more than accounted for - At noon the Indians went away."

Oct. 8
" Saturday Wind Wly a small Breeze clear Weather. Sent off 19 Men to gather Pitch and split Timbers and Splinters for Canoe Work and the rest variously employed. At Noon a Ne kethewea Indian arrived for Tobacco and he that arrived on the 6 instant went away."

Oct. 9
" Sunday Wind NW a stiff Breeze clear Weather."

Oct. 10
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday - sent five Men away in the Boat to bring Birch for sundry uses, also sent seven Men to get Roots for making and repairing Canoes and the rest employed bringing Grafs and laying Canoes up for the Winter. - gave the Indian Tobacco and Ammunition for several others and he went away."

Oct. 11
" Tuesday Wind Sly a fresh Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear - Gilbert Laughton employed in the Cooper way and the rest laying up Canoes."

Oct. 12
" Wednesday Wind variable light Breezes Wea. as yesterday. - The Men employed as yesterday - at Noon four of those who went for Roots return'd; also one Tent of blackfeet Indians arrived with Provisions which they traded and some of them went away."

Oct. 13
" Thursday Wind Wly a small Breeze Wea. as before. Finished laying up the Canoes and did odd Jobbs about the House - in the evening an Indian came for Tobacco from the Moose Hills and the blackfeet went away."

Oct. 14
" Friday Wind SE a small Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear. - Sent James Tate hunting and the rest making a shed for the Mens Provisions - At noon the Men came home that went for Birch and have brought a good quantity. - Gave the Indian Tobacco and he went away."

Oct. 15
" Saturday Wind and Weather as yesterday the Men variously employed. - James Tate return'd from hunting brought the flesh of a Bull Buffalo having seen nothing else."

Oct. 16
" Sunday Wind Ely thick Cloudy Weather - late in the evening three Tents of Indians arrived from the Westward and have little or nothing."

Oct. 17
" Monday Wind variable Weather as yesterday. - Sent four Men to get roots and the rest variously employed - Traded a few parchment Beaver and a little Provisions from those that arrived last night - An afsinnepoet Indian came for Tobacco."

Oct. 18
" Tuesday Wind NE a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy with Rain afterwards Snow - the Smith repairing a trading Gun, and the rest fell and cut firewood for the Winter."

Oct. 19
" Wednesday Wind ENE small Breeze clear Weather. Sent the Smith and six Men to burn Charcoal for Smiths use and the rest collecting firewood and doing Jobbs at the House - At noon ten Men came home that was gathering Pitch; have brought four Horses loaded, also some of the Canoe Work - In the evening and Indian Man and his Wife arrived brought little, or nothing."

Oct. 20
" Thursday Wind Wind Ely a small Breeze clear Weather. The Men variously employed."

Oct. 21
" Friday Wind and Weather as yesterday - Sent James Tate and seven Men on hunting. Taylor making Cloaths for the Men, one Man lame by cutting his hand with a Hatchet, the rest cutting firewood and crofsing Indians."

Oct. 22
" Saturday Wind and Weather much the same as before. The People variously employed - At 10 AM the Men came home with Timbers and Splinters for four Canoes; also stuff for Gunnels - Traded a few Beaver from the Indians that came last and gave them Credit of Iron Work, Tobacco and Ammunition and put them acrofs the River."

Oct. 23
" Sunday little Wind variable in the East quarter and much warmer than it has been for some time past. Gave the Indians debt that arrived on the 16 inst. and put them over the River, in the evening four more arrived from the Moose Hills; brought a few Furrs to Trade."

Oct. 24
" Monday Wind variable Cloudy mild Weather - two Men bringing Meat from the hunting Tent, Smith repairing trading Guns, Taylor making Cloaths for the Men; and the rest employed cutting and bringing home firewood in the Boat - in the evening five Men came home with the flesh of three Bull Buffalo from James Tate - traded with the Indians, gave them Debt, and they went away."

Oct. 25
" Tuesday Wind almost Calm Clear fine Weather. People employed as yesterday."

Oct. 26
" Wednesday Wind variable first part Cloudy latter part clear and blowed fresh from the Westward. the five Men return'd back to James Tate; also James Spence and the rest employed as before."

Oct. 27
" Thursday Wind Ely a small Breeze Weather Cloudy and clear alternately - Sent two Men with Horses to fetch flesh from the hunting Tent; the rest employed as before."

Oct. 28
" Friday Wind as yesterday Weather Cloudy and inclinable to Snow - The Men employed as before - in the evening the two Men came home that went for Meat, brought the flesh of a Bull Buffalo; also an Indian Man and his Family arrived with a little Provisions, part of which he traded and got Drunk."

Oct. 29
" Saturday Wind variable with Cloudy Weather. Gilbert Laughton employed in the Cooper way, and the rest cut firewood and cleared Tracks for hauling home ditto - in the evening a young Indian arriv'd, brought a few Beaver Skins."

Oct. 30
" Sunday Wind Westerly a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy with rain at times - At Noon one Tent of afsinnepoet Indians arrived, brought a few Beaver Skins part of which they traded and got Drunk, also late in the evening a Nehethewea Indian man and his Wife arrived, brought 20 made Beaver."

Oct. 31
" Monday Wind variable in the N quarter fresh Breezes with Snow at times - The Men variously employed - Traded with the Indians and they went away."

Nov. 1 1791
" Tuesday Wind variable all round Calm Weather and clear - The Smith repairing Guns, Taylor making cloathing for Trade, sent three to the barren Ground to Hunt and maintain themselves, one still Lame, and the rest employed building a Cook Room."

Nov. 2
" Wednesday little Wind Sly clear fine Weather. Two Men making up leaf Tobacco, and the rest employed as yesterday."

Nov. 3
" Thursday Wind variable from S to W and blowed a fresh Gale - The Smith repairing Kegs and the rest employed as before - At 1 PM James Tate and six Men came home, brought four Cow Buffalo; also an afsinnepoet Indian arrived, brought two Beaver and a half."

Nov. 4
" Friday Wind Sly a small Breeze Weather Cloudy and clear alternately - Finished the Cookroom and did odd Jobbs within Doors - At Noon Wm Flett Sen. came home from the hunting Tent for Provisions; having had nothing to eat for some days past."

Nov. 5
" Saturday Wind variable light Breezes Cloudy Weather. The People variously employed; gave supplies of Ammunition and other necefsaries to sixteen Men to hunt and provide for themselves during the Winter."

Nov. 6
" Sunday Wind Wly a small Breeze clear Weather - Sent off 18 Men to hunt Provisions for themselves, and to bring in Meat to the House as soon as they kill any."

Nov. 7
" Monday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze Cloudy Weather with Snow in the evening - Gilbert Laughton repairing Kegs, Taylor making cloathing for Trade, Mag. Burston still lame, and the rest cut firewood."

Nov. 8
" Tuesday Wind Sly a small Breeze clear Weather. The Men employed carrying Snow out of the Yard, that fell in the night."

Nov. 9
" Wednesday Wind Wly a small Breeze Weather Cloudy and clear alternately - Gilbert Laughton sharpening the pit Saw, Taylor as before, and the rest variously employ'd."

Nov. 10
" Thursday Wind Sly a small Breeze clear Weather Gilbert Laughton sharpening the Saws, and the rest employed as yesterday. - At Noon Wm Flett came home for Men to fetch Meat."

Nov. 11
" Friday Wind NE fresh Gales Weather Cloudy inclinable to Snow - Two Men making up leaf Tobacco. Smith repairing a trading Gun, sent two to fetch flesh and the rest cut firewood."

Nov. 12
" Saturday little Wind in the E quarter Cloudy Wea. People variously employed. in the evening those return'd that went for Meat yesterday; brought two red Deer and one Moose, very poor."

Nov. 13
" Sunday Wind NE small Breeze clear Weather. late in the evening three afsinnepoet Indian arrived, and left their Women on the other side the River."

Nov. 14
" Monday little Wind variable Weather part Cloudy part clear - Two Men sawing stuff for Sleds, the Smith repairing Hatchets, Taylor making Childrens cloathing for Trade, one still lame and the rest crofsing Indians and doing odd Jobbs at the House - The Indians traded a little Liquor and got Drunk."

Nov. 15
" Tuesday Wind NE a moderate Breeze clear Wea. Smith making fire Steels, John Irvin Sen. planing stuff for Sleds, Taylor as before and the rest cut firewood. Traded 60 MB in Furrs and a little Provisions from those that arrived yesterday; being all they brought. part of the Indians went away in the evening; but the River setting fast prevented the others from getting acrofs."

Nov. 16
" Wednesday Wind Nly a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy and inclinable to Snow - People employed as yesterday. At Noon the Indians went away, that could not crofs last night."

Nov. 17
" Thursday Wind Nly a stiff Gale with hard freezing Weather - The Men employed within Doors. In the evening an Indian arrived from the red Deers Hill, brought 3 Otters."

Nov. 18
" Friday Wind and Weather as yesterday - The Smith repairing bad Hatchets, and the rest variously employed. Gave the Indian a little credit and he went away."

Nov. 19
" Saturday Wind variable in the North quarter Weather Cloudy and clear alternately - People employed as yesterday."

Nov. 20
" Sunday Wind WbS a fresh Breeze cold freezing Wea. At Noon John Harper and George Stranger came home with two red Deer from the hunting tent."

Nov. 21
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - The Smith making Awl blades, Taylor making Indian cloathing two Men sawing stuff for Sleds and the rest cut firewood."

Nov. 22
" Tuesday little Wind variable Weather Cloudy and clear alternately - The Men employed as yesterday. the two Men return'd back to the hunting Tent."

Nov. 23
" Wednesday Wind in the E quarter Weather Cloudy with Snow towards evening. - Six Men with Dogs bringing home Charcoal for Smiths use, and the rest employed within Doors."

Nov. 24
" Thursday Wind variable and blowed fresh in the evening. Smith making Awl blades, Taylor making Indian cloathing, two Men making up leaf Tobacco and the rest hauling firewood - In the evening one Tent of Indians arrived with a few Furrs to Trade; these bring very indifferent accounts from the various Tribes they have seen having a distemper amongst them which has all ready carried off some and great many are ailing; also of one of our best Leaders being killed by running Buffalo on Horseback last Autumn."

Nov. 25
" Friday Wind Wly a fresh Gale with thawing Weather. The People employed as yesterday."

Nov. 26
" Saturday Wind WNW a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy and clear alternately. Smith repairing an Indian Gun, two Men making up Tobacco, and the rest cut firewood and cleaned the Yard. - in the evening four Men came home from Edw'd Wishart and Mag. Annel, brought the flesh of two Cows; also a muddy River Indian came for Tobacco which he got, and went off again."

Nov. 27
" Sunday Wind variable between SW & W a fresh breeze Cloudy warm Weather - Traded with the Indians that came the 25 inst. and the went away. - All the Indians I have seen since I arrived are very hard to deal with and very expensive. - In the afternoon four Men came home from James Tate and Mag. Spence, brought near 3 Cows; they have had very little succefs in hunting. In the evening four muddy River Indians arrived; also four more from the red Deers Hill; what they have brought is but trifling."

Nov. 28
" Monday Wind Wly a strong Gale Weather Cloudy at intervals - The Smith cleaning trading Guns. - Sent eight Men to fetch Meat from the hunting Tent, and the rest variously employed."

Nov. 29
" Tuesday Wind Nly a fresh Breeze with Cloudy Weather. The Smith as before, one making Sleds and the rest cut firewood. - The Men return'd back to their Tents. Traded with some of the Indians and they went away."

Nov. 30
" Wednesday Wind variable light Breezes clear Weather. The Men employed as before. Traded with the muddy River Indians and at noon they went away. - I have sent presents of Tobacco to several of their Countrymen; the Horses being stole last Summer has prevented me from sending Men to that Country."

Dec. 1 1791
" Thursday Wind ESE a small Breeze clear fine Wea. till evening then blowed hard - The Smith and Taylor employed in their way and the rest cut firewood, except two that went for flesh."

Dec. 2
" Friday Wind Nly a fresh Gale with Snow and drift all last night and most part of this day. - The People employed within Doors."

Dec. 3
" Saturday Wind NW a fresh Breeze clear sharp Wea. Two Men making Sleds, Smith repairing and cleaning trading Guns and the rest carrying snow out of the Yard. In the evening two Men came from the hunting Tent but brought no Meat, by reason too much Snow and no Snow Shoes. - At Noon a blackfoot Indian came for Tobacco which he got and went away."

Dec. 4
" Sunday Wind SE a fresh Breeze Weather as yesterday. In the evening one Tent of blackfeet Indians arrived brought very little of any thing."

Dec. 5
" Monday Wind Sly a fresh Breeze with Cloudy Wea. Sent six Men with Dogs to fetch Meat from the hunting Tent, Taylor making Indian Cloathing and the rest making a track for hauling firewood. - Traded a few Furrs and a little Provisions from those that arrived yesterday."

Dec. 6
" Tuesday Wind SE a small Breeze thick rhimy Weather. Those at the House employed hauling fire Wood. - At 8 PM the Men that went for flesh return'd, brought four red Deer."

Dec. 7
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday clear Weather. The Men employed as before. Traded 94 MB from fall Indians that came to the French House yesterday."

Dec. 8
" Thursday Wind and Weather as before. Smith cleaning trading Guns, Taylor making cloathing for Trade. one Man making Sleds; sent the rest for flesh."

Dec. 9
" Friday Wind Wly a fresh Breeze clear warm Weather. those at the House employed as yesterday; in the evening those came home that went for flesh; brought four red Deer and half of a Moose; the Hunter also came home for some Brandy."

Dec. 10
" Saturday little Wind variable clear fine Weather. Sent three Men to fetch Meat, Smith making a Key for one of the draw back Locks, and the rest variously employ'd. Gave the Hunter two Gallons Brandy & he went away."

Dec. 11
" Sunday Wind variable light Breezes clear fine Wea."

Dec. 12
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - Taylor and one Man making Indian cloathing, two sawing stuff for Sleds, the Smith repairing a draw back Lock (belonging to Cumberland House), the rest hauling firewood on Horses lately bought."

Dec. 13
" Tuesday Calm fine Weather. - The Men employed as yesterday."

Dec. 14
" Wednesday Wind Wly a fresh Breeze clear warm Wea. The Smith making narrow Ice Chizzels over again, they being very ill made at first, the rest employ'd as before."

Dec. 15
" Thursday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - The Men employed as before."

Dec. 16
" Friday Wind Nly a fresh Breeze with Cloudy Weather. People employed hauling firewood and cleaning the Yard; in the afternoon those came home that went for Meat, brought three Moose and one red Deer. - Traded with the Indians, and find them very poor and barely they have brought no more then 150 MB & that very indifferent Furrs."

[No Saturday the 17th]

Dec. 18
" Sunday Wind Ely a small Breeze with thick rimy Weather. - At Noon the Sufsew Indians went away."

Dec. 19
" Monday Wind variable a small Breeze with clear Wea. Taylor and one Man making Indian cloathing, one making Sleds, the rest employed within Doors and hauling firewood. - In the afternoon two Men came home from the huntingTent; brought one red Deer & part of a poor Moose."

Dec. 20
" Tuesday little Wind in the E quarter Weather as yesterday. The Men employed as before. - At Noon two tents of blackfeet Indians arrived; brought Provisions and a trifle of Furrs, part of which they traded and got drunk. William Rich and Benjamin Bruce return'd to their Tent."

Dec. 21
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday - The People employed as before. - Traded with the Indians and gave them many small articles that they could not purchase being very pooly gooded; having brought no more than 80 Wolves and 80 small Foxes for six able Men."

Dec. 22
" Thursday Wind variable and almost Calm. One Man making Sleds, three with the Horses hauling firewood, one lame by cutting himself in the hand and the rest cut firewood. - At Noon the blackfeet Indians went away."

Dec. 23
" Friday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - The Smith repairing a Gun and the rest employed within Doors and cut firewood."

Dec. 24
" Saturday Wind and Weather much the same as before. - The Men hauling firewood up the Bank and cleaning the Yard &c &c."

Dec. 25
" Sunday Wind SW a fresh Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear. - Last evening an afsinnepoet Indian arriv'd brought 4 half Beaver; which he traded for Ammunition and went away."

Dec. 26
" Monday Wind Ely a small Breeze Weather as yesterday. Three Men with the Horses hauling firewood & the rest cut ditto."

Dec. 27
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - The Taylor and Smith employed in their way and the rest making a track for hauling Firewood."

Dec. 28
" Wednesday little Wind variable clear sharp Weather. At Noon the Hunter and one Man came home, for Men to fetch flesh; also two Men came home from James Tate who informs me there is numbers of Buffalo three days Journey from this."

Dec. 29
" Thursday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. - Sent six Men to fetch Meat from the hunting Tent, Taylor and one Man making Indian cloathing the rest employed within Doors and hauling firewood."

Dec. 30
" Friday Wind Sly a small Breeze with a sharp Air. The People employed as yesterday; in the evening those came home that went for Meat; brought two red Deer and two Bull Buffalo very poor."

Dec. 31
" Saturday Wind EbS a small Breeze Wea. as yesterday. The Men variously employed. - In the evening our Hunter and those with him came to the House; also one Tent of afsinnepoet Indians arrived; these like all others are very poorly gooded."

Jan. 1 1792
" Sunday Wind as yesterday with clear mild Weather. Traded with the Indians and they went away."

Jan. 2
" Monday Wind NW a fresh Breeze clear sharp Wea. The Hunter pitched away to look for Buffalo, and have sent three Men along with him. Taylor making Indian cloathing and the rest carrying out firewood for the Horses to haul."

Jan. 3
" Tuesday Wind Nly a small Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear and very cold. - The Men employed as yesterday. At Noon the Hunter came to the House for a complaint in his Ear."

Jan. 4
" Wednesday little Wind variable clear sharp Wea. Three Men with the Horses hauling firewood, and the rest repairing the fire places. - At Noon the Hunter went back to his Tent."

Jan. 5
" Thursday Wind variable from E to WNW a fresh Gale with Snow all day."

Jan. 6
" Friday Wind WNW a fresh Breeze sharp Wea. The Men employed carrying Snow out of the Yard and cutting firewood. - At 10 AM seven blood Indians came for Tobacco which they got and went away."

Jan. 7
" Saturday little Wind variable Weather as before. The Men employed, carrying firewood up the Bank. - In the evening a large band of blood and fall Indians arrived very poorly gooded. - Our Hunter and those with him return'd to the House being very ill."

Jan. 8
" Sunday Wind NW small Breeze clear sharp Wea. The Indians still drunk. - These like all others begin to be very fond of Liquor."

Jan. 9
" Monday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. - The Men attending the House to prevent the Indians from theiving. - Traded with most part of the Indians."

Jan. 10
" Tuesday Wind and Weather as before. - The Men employed cutting firewood and attending the House. Traded near two hundred made beaver to day; the most part of which came from the other House. - In the evening the blood Indians went away."

Jan. 11
" Wednesday little Wind variable with very sharp Wea. The Smith making Awl blades and the rest carried out firewood for the Horses to haul. - At 10 AM the fall Indians went away; these with the blood Indians has brought 700 MB in Wolves & foxes and 800 lbs Provisions which was no more than 14 1/2 B. pr Man."

Jan. 12
" Thursday Wind Nly with a continuance of sharp Wea. The Men employed as yesterday. - Our Hunter still continues very ill of an inward Complaint."

Jan. 13
" Friday little Wind variable Weather as before. The People employed as formerly."

Jan. 14
" Saturday Wind EbS Weather part Cloudy part clear. - One Man making Sleds, Smith and Taylor employed in their way and the rest cut firewood and cleaned the Yard."

Jan. 15
" Sunday little Wind Nly Cloudy Weather and much warmer than it has been for some time past."

Jan. 16
" Monday Wind SE a fresh Breeze Cloudy Weather. The Smith sharpening the crofs cut Saws, Taylor with one Man lacing Hats, the rest hauling & cutting fire Wood."

Jan. 17
" Tuesday Wind as yesterday with mild Weather. The Smith making fire Steels and the rest employed as before. - Our Hunter still continues very ill."

Jan. 18
" Wednesday Wind EbS a small Breeze Cloudy Wea. The People employed as before."

Jan. 19
" Thursday Wind Wly a fresh Breeze clear sharp Wea. The People employed as the preceeding days."

Jan. 20
" Friday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - The Men employed cutting firewood. The Smith finish'd 15 doz. Awl blades & 5 doz. fire Steels. - At Noon a blood Indian came for Tobacco which he got and went away."

Jan. 21
" Saturday Wind Ely a small Breeze Weather as before. The Smith repairing broken Hatchets that were damaged in the Packages, Taylor making Coats for Trade, and the rest cleaned the Yard and cut firewood. - At 9 AM one blood Indian & one blackfoot came for Tobacco, which they got and went away; At 1 PM four Tents of the above Indians arrived."

Jan. 22
" Sunday little Wind variable clear sharp Weather. Traded with the Indians and presented them with several small articles as usual; these like all others are very poorly gooded."

Jan. 23
" Monday Wind EbS a small Breeze Wea. as yesterday. Smith & Taylor employed in their way, and the rest cut firewood. - At noon the Indians went away, they have brought 300 lb Provisions & 300 MB in Wolves and Foxes the latter is but a trifle for the number of Men."

Jan. 24
" Tuesday Wind and Weather much the same as before. Sent three Men away with the Hunter and the rest employed hauling and cutting fire Wood."

Jan. 25
" Wednesday Wind variable almost Calm fine clear Weather. - The Smith employed in the Cooper way, Taylor and one Man making Leaders cloathing and the rest variously employed. At Noon seven muddy River Indians came for Tobacco which they got and went away."

Jan. 26
" Thursday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - The Men employed as on the preceeding day. - At noon the muddy River Indians arrived; as also two Tents of fall Indians in all 54 able Men, but very poorly gooded."

Jan. 27
" Friday Wind SE a small Breeze with fine Weather. The Smith mending Indian Kettles, Taylor & one man making Boys Coats for Trade; the rest cut firewood and attended the House. - Traded with part of the Indians and presented the Leader with a few articles as usual."

Jan. 28
" Saturday Wind & Weather much the same as yesterday. Men employed as before - At 8 PM finished trading with the Indians and all went away; but one tent of blood Indians who has staid to wait the arrival of some Nehethewea Indians to know whether they are to keep peace with them or not."

Jan. 29
" Sunday Wind in the E quarter a small Breeze with thick rhimy Weather."

Jan. 30
" Monday Wind SE Weather as yesterday. - The Men employed cutting firewood and tying up Furrs; they have brought 1200 MB in Wolves, Foxes & Parchment Beaver also 400 lb Provisions; very few of this Tribe went to the Canadian House, which has been the cause of their running too hard in our Tobacco, having traded 299 B. out of 420 the want of that article will be a lofs in Trade, which I hope will convince the Honorable Company of their error in not having the Tobacco inspected in England before sent into the Country."

Jan. 31
" Tuesday Wind variable from SE to NW a small Breeze Cloudy mild Weather. - The Smith and Taylor employ'd in their way d the rest collecting and hauling firewood."

Feb. 1 1792
" Wednesday Wind variable in the N quarter small Breezes with warm Weather. - The Men variously employ'd. At Noon several of the Men came home from the barren Ground, brought a quantity of cut line for tying up furrs and parchment Skins for Bags to hold Provisions for the Journey down."

Feb. 2
" Thursday Wind NE a fresh Breeze Cloudy Weather. The Men cut firewood. - At Noon one Tent of blood Indians arrived; brought nothing but a little Provisions; our Hunter also came home for Men to fetch Meat."

Feb. 3
" Friday Wind Wly a small Breeze Wea. part Cloudy part clear. - Sent six Men to fetch Meat & the rest cut firewood. the Men from the barren Ground also return'd to their Tents."

Feb. 4
" Saturday Wind NE Weather as yesterdy. - The Smith repairing a trading Gun and the rest cut firewood. - traded what Provisions the Indians brought and they went away and one Tent of afsinnepoet Indians arrived in the evening also the Men that went for Meat; brought four Buffalo."

Feb. 5
" Sunday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze Cloudy Cold Weather. Traded with the Indians and they went away. - five Men brought 40 MB in Furrs."

Feb. 6
" Monday Wind variable with drizzling snowy Weather. The Smith repairing trading Gun Locks, sent five Men to fetch Meat and the rest cut firewood. Late in the evening one Tent of Indians arrived, brought a few furrs & some dried Provisions part of which they traded & got Drunk."

Feb. 7
" Tuesday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze clear sharp Weather. The Smith repairing old Keys and the rest cut firewood. The Indians still Drunk."

Feb. 8
" Wednesday Wind NE Cloudy Weather with drizzling Snow most part of the day. - The Men employed as yesterday; at 2 PM those came home that went for Meat on Monday brought four Buffalo. - Traded with the Indians what Furrs they brought; but did not trade all their Provisions as our Tobacco is very little."

Feb. 9
" Thursday Wind NW a small Breeze clear sharp Wea. Taylor making Indian cloathing, sent five Men to fetch Meat & the rest cut fire Wood. At Noon the Indians went away."

Feb. 10
" Friday Wind NE a fresh Gale with Snow & drift. The Men employed as yesterday."

Feb. 11
" Saturday Wind ENE a fresh Gale with Cold drifting Weather. The Men employed carrying Snow out of the Yard, at 5 PM those came home that went for Meat; brought four Buffalo very poor."

Feb. 12
" Sunday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze with Snow all day."

Feb. 13
" Monday Wind WSW a small Breeze clear fine Weather. Sent five Men to fetch Meat & the rest cut firewood."

Feb. 14
" Tuesday Wind variable Weather as yesterday. - The Smith making the Brandy Kegs smaller and the rest variously employed. Late in the evening two young Indians arrived from the Beaver River, brought a few furrs; also James Oman & James Linklatter arrived from the South Branch with a Packet from Mr Walker which informs me that he is short of sundry articles of trading Goods."


" Copy of a Letter receiv'd from Mr William Walker
South Branch House Feb. 7th 1792
Kind Sir
The shortnefs of Goods obliges me to send two Men, James Oman and Linklatter to let You know my situation in every particular, according to your desire, my Cloth is done, Tobacco I have half a Roll; so if You can spare me any You will oblige your humble and obedient Servant. My Trade at this present time, is turned 3000 Beaver, Provisions, 2000 lb Fatt beat Meat 2000 lb and 400 lb dried; thank God I have as much fresh Meat as we can destroy while it is good. - James Morrowick was my best Hunter he killed 32 Cows, and the latter end of January we finished fetching the last of my Meat. The above dried Provisions I was obliged to Trade from Indians, being my old customers, that used this House.
With the help of God I hope to get the Wood near to the spot where I intended rebuilding, by the Spring; so if You intend that the House should be built this Summer James Sanderson will be the properest Person to stay, for all this Winter I could not put any Weight up in the Loft; for when I did I could not open my Door. This place is very uncertain in Indians so that I can give no guefs of the Spring Trade. - I hear Charles Isham's Goods is done, by the last Indians that was here; above half the Sd Indians that used to Trade here with me I have not seen the Year. - What Pimmeecan You want You'll please to let me know, for I have plenty, but whether I shall be able to make it I cannot tell; for want of stuff to make Bags; I have nothing more to relate but conclude wishing succefs to the Companys affairs, Health & happinefs to You and all under your Command so remain Sir,
Your most obedient
and humble Servant
William Walker."

Feb. 15
" Wednesday Wind SW a small Breeze with Snow till Noon afterwards clear Weather. - The Smith & one Man making fire Steels for the South Branch House, and the rest carrying Snow out of the yard and doing odd Jobbs about the House; at Noon they came home that went for Meat on Monday, brought four small Buffalo."

Feb. 16
" Thursday Wind Ely Weather Cloudy and clear alternately - Sent five Men to fetch Meat, the Smith as before and the rest variously employed. - At Noon the Indians went away."

Feb. 17
" Friday Wind variable light Breezes clear warm Wea. Sent three Men with Horses to fetch flesh, and the rest employed as yesterday, at five PM they return'd that went for Meat, brought 3 Buffalo; also Nichol Allen Jun. who has unfortunately got shot at a setting Gun he had the lend of from one of his fellow Servants; he is much hurt and I know not what it will come to."

Feb. 18
" Saturday Wind SE a small Breeze Cloudy thawing Weather. Sent five Men to fetch Meat and the rest cut firewood, at 5 PM the Men return'd with the Horses brought three Buffalo."

Feb. 19
" Sunday Wind variable small Breezes clear fine Wea."

Feb. 20
" Monday Wind NE a fresh Breeze thick Cloudy Weather. - The Smith making Awl blades for the South Branch and the rest variously employed; at 2 PM those return'd that went for Meat, brought four Cows but very poor. Late in the evening two Young Indians arrived with a few furrs to Trade."

Feb. 21
" Tuesday Wind as yesterday a small Breeze Cloudy mild Weather. - The Smith making a few Rivvets for the South Branch, and the rest cut firewood. - packed up some Goods for the South Branch."

Feb. 22
" Wednesday Wind variable in the E quarter first part foggy latter part clear Weather. - Sent eight Men to fetch flesh, the rest cut firewood and did odd Jobbs within Doors - Early this morning James Oman and James Linklatter set off for the South Branch."


" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Will. Walker
Manchester House Feb. 22nd 1792
Mr William Walker
Sir,
By the arrival of James Oman and James Linklatter on the 14 instant I receiv'd your kind favor dated the 7th which gave me great pleasure to hear of your welfare; as also all under your direction. - I am sorry to hear You are short of Goods especially Tobacco which I am not able to supply You with, not having half enough for this place notwithstanding there has not been any Nehethewea Indians in this Winter and what other Tribes has been have run chiefly on that article; the muddy River Indians traded 290 odd Beaver in that article, indeed it generally is the case when any article is short they run most upon it which has been the case this Year; by reason of the Natives being very poor and what many of them had went for that Commodity.
The Trade at this place is very little turned 4000 made Beaver which is far short of that, at this time last year; and there is but little prospect of a Spring Trade as the Indians are all Pounding Buffalo at the Beaver Hills so that there is a doubt whether any of them will be in or not as they cannot expect any maket? for Provisions alone.
Our Hunter was ailing for some time, which has prevented me from getting the quantity of fresh Meat required, nor do I think I shall be able to procure enough by the latter end of March, should the Buffalo stay were they are at present which is a crofs the fighting River, above the Eagle Hill; as to dried Provisions I have nearly enough.
James Sanderson's staying up all the Summer is not yet determined, as You know there was several Steersmen went down that did not return; but should You be able to get three or four Canoes of Indians to go down it may be the means of enabling us to let him stay up to forward the Building.
I have sent by the Bearers the following articles which I hope You will receive safe, viz. Cloth of sorts 70 Yards, Gartering broad 108 Yds, Knives Yew handle 5 doz., large long 6 doz., Hawks Bells 50 Pr, 50 fire Steels, Awl blades 144, Beads light blue 2 lb, Shirts check 12 & Rivvets 50; which is all I can spare at present."
I intended to have erected a House higher up the River; but the Horses being stole last Summer, and the shoalnefs of the Water prevented that scheme from being put in execution.
I had Wooden Work taken last fall for three Canoes; but where the Birchrind is to come from I know not, as there is no Indians as yet, come in that I can employ on that businefs. - On the 16th inst Nichol Allen unfortunately got shot at a setting Gun; he was at the hunting Tent with two more, and had the lend of a Gun from one of his fellow Servants. The body of the shot has lodged in the wrist of his right Arm; but what it may turn to I know not. Having nothing more to add I conclude with wishing succefs to the Companys affairs, health and happinefs to You and all under your Command and remain
Sir,
Your humble Servant
William Tomison.
PS. You will please to make 26 Bags of Pimmeecan 70 lb each."

Feb. 23
" Thursday Wind variable all round, almost calm, clear sharp Weather. - The People employed as yesterday; at 2 PM those came home that went for flesh; brought five Buffalo very poor."

Feb. 24
" Friday Wind Wly a small Breeze with a little Snow in the morning, afterwards clear and blowed hard. - Sent four Men to fetch Meat and the rest employed as before."

Feb. 25
" Saturday Wind NW a stiff Breeze clear sharp Weather. The Men cut firewood and cleaned the Yard. - At 4 PM those came home that went for meat; brought three Cow Buffalo."

Feb. 26
" Sunday little Wind variable fine clear Weather."

Feb. 27
" Monday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy with Snow in the evening. - Sent eight Men to fetch Meat, the rest cut firewood and did odd Jobbs within Doors."

Feb. 28
" Tuesday Wind NE a small Breeze clear Weather. Two Men sawing a few Plank for necefsary use, and the rest employed as before. - At 2 PM two Men came from the barren Ground according to order; also those that went for Meat brought five Cows very poor."

Feb. 29
" Wednesday Wind ENE a fresh Breeze with Snow. The Men employed pounding the beat Meat finer, for the Journey down. - At Noon our Hunter came home, with his Family, having left off hunting."

Mar. 1 1792
" Thursday Wind Ely a small Breeze clear Weather. Sent six Men to fetch Meat, Smith employed in the Cooper way, the rest hauling Snow out of the Yard and cutting fire Wood &c."

Mar. 2
" Friday Wind NE a small Breeze Weather Cloudy and clear alternately. The People employed as yesterday. at 6 PM those return'd that went for Meat; brought four Buffalo."

Mar. 3
" Saturday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze first part Cloudy latter part clear Weather."

Mar. 4
" Sunday Wind EbS a fresh Breeze clear Weather and thawed much. - At 8 PM a fall Indian arrived for Tobacco."

Mar. 5
" Monday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze Weather as yesterday. Sent six Men to fetch flesh and the rest variously employ'd. At Noon four Tents of Fall Indians arrived."

Mar. 6
" Tuesday Wind & Weather as yesterday. Two Men at the pit Saw, and the rest cut firewood. - At 10 AM those return'd that went for flesh; brought four Buffalo. Traded with the fall Indians and gave the Leaders small presents as usual."

Mar. 7
" Wednesday little Wind Wly clear warm Weather. The Smith repairing a trading Gun and the rest doing odd Jobbs within Doors. - At Noon James Tate and four Men came home with Hugh Beaky, who has got shot at his own setting Gun; the body of the Shot entered the thick part of his right thigh and pafsed through; and many of the Shot went into his private Parts, and made a large Wound which makes his Life doubtful. - At 7 AM the fall Indians went away; they have brought 200 made Beaver in Wolves & Foxes also 300 lb Provisions."

Mar. 8
" Thursday Wind variable in the West quarter light Breezes clear Weather. - The Men employed bringing home five Buffalo the Hunter killed yesterday."

Mar. 9
" Friday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - The Men variously employed. - At 10 AM seven Men came home from the barren Ground. - Hugh Bakey is much worse than he was, being now in a Fever, not a grain of Bark in the House to give him; when William Rich broke his Arm I had 2 oz. from Mr Macky which was of great service to him; as also to David Thompson when he broke his Leg. I must say the inland Settlements are very ill supplied with any useful Medicine; which ever will be the case until the Honorable Company takes it into consideration, to have a Box packed up in England, with proper directions for the inland Settlements and then a prudent Person might use them without fear, which I cannot do at present."

Mar. 10
" Saturday Wind NE a small Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear. - The Smith repairing Hatchets two Men at the pit Saw, one attending the lame Man and the rest cut fire Wood. - John Sabbiston & Wm Corrigal return'd back to their Tent."

Mar. 11
" Sunday Wind NNE a small Breeze with Snow till Noon afterwards clear Weather. - Paid off the Hunter for hunting during the Winter and engaged him again to go with James Tate & seven Men more to the Beaver Hills to procure Birchrind for building & repairing Canoes."

Mar. 12
" Monday Wind as yesterday with clear Weather. Eight Men getting ready to go to the Beaver Hills, and the rest variously employed."

Mar. 13
" Tuesday Wind Nly Weather Cloudy and clear alternately. - Sent James Tate and seven Men off for the Beaver Hills. - The Smith making Nippers to pull stuff out of the Wounded Mans thigh, being part of his cloathing which was forced in with the Shot, the rest cut fire Wood and pounded beat Meat for the Journey down."

Mar. 14
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - Four Men steming leaf Tobacco, Smith repairing Kegs, and the rest variously employed. Hugh Bakey very ill. - In the evening twelve fall Indians arrived carrying a few Skins on their backs."

Mar. 15
" Thursday little Wind variable Weather as before. Two Men making up Leaf Tobacco, Taylor making cloathing for the Men, two at the pit Saw, and the rest cut firewood. - Traded with the Indians; at 9 AM they went away. - They brought 70 MB in Wolves & Foxes."

Mar. 16
" Friday Wind SE a fresh Breeze clear Weather. - The Smith making fire Steels, two Men at the pit Saw, Taylor making cloathing for the Men and the rest bringing Tent Poles. - At Noon a blackfoot Indian arriv'd for Tobacco which he got and went away."

Mar. 17
" Saturday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - Smith & Taylor as before, six Men bringing stuff for Oars and the rest variously employed. - At Noon two Tents of blackfeet Indians arrived; brought a few Wolves and Foxes, part of which they traded for Liquor and got drunk."

Mar. 18
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh Gale with Snow alternately. Traded with the Indians and gave them a few small articles. they have brought 130 MB and some dried Provisions."

Mar. 19
" Monday Wind NW a fresh Breeze clear sharp Wea. One Man attending the lame Man, Smith making Rivvets, Taylor and one Man making Indian cloathing & the rest bringing firewood. - At Noon the Indians went away, and eight more came for Tobacco which they got and went away. in the evening one Tent of Blackfeet arrived."

Mar. 20
" Tuesday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy and inclinable to Snow. - The Men employed as yesterday. At Noon six Tents of Blood and blackfeet Indians arrived thirty two able Men, six of which I rigged."

Mar. 21
" Wednesday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. - The Smith repairing trading Pistols, Taylor as before and the rest attending the House. - Traded with part of the Indians and some of them went away."

Mar. 22
" Thursday Wind NE a small Breeze clear Weather. The Smith repairing a Gun, two Men sawing Bars for the Prefs, and the rest employed within Doors. - Finished trading with the Indians and most of them went away. They have brought near 600 MB in Wolves and Foxes also 300 lb Provisions."

Mar. 23
" Friday Wind and Weather much the same as yesterday. Smith repairing a trading Gun, Taylor making cloathing for the Men and the rest with Dogs hauling firewood. At Noon the blood Indians went away."

Mar. 24
" Saturday Wind SE a small Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear. - One Man planing Timbers for Canoes and the rest made 2100 lb Pimmeecan for the Journey down. At 10 AM six blood & blackfeet Indians arrived for Tobacco which they got and went away; but could only give them one foot in lieu of three that they used to get. Hugh Bakey very ill today."

Mar. 25
" Sunday Wind & Weather much the same as yesterday. At 10 AM four Tents of blood and blackfeet Indians arrived three of which I rigged; they traded some Liquor and got Drunk."

Mar. 26
" Monday Wind variable light Breezes thawing Weather. The Men variously employed. - Traded with the Indians and some of them went away. - At 8 PM three young Indians arrived from the Beaver Hills from an Indian that promised to take Birchrind for Canoes; they are much Snowblind and very lame."

Mar 27
" Tuesday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy and clear alternately. - The Smith employed in the Cooper way, Taylor and one Man making Leaders cloathing & the rest doing odd Jobbs within Doors. - At 9 AM the Indians went away."

Mar. 28
" Wednesday Wind WNW a fresh Gale with Snow at intervals. - One Man planing Timbers for Canoes, the Taylor as before, Smith work'g at Kegs and the rest cutting out Ice for the Victualling House. - In the evening two afsinnepoet Indians arrived carrying a few Skins on their backs."

Mar. 29
" Thursday little Wind Ely clear Weather. - The Smith as before & the rest carrying Ice in the Victualling House, and made up 1400 lb Pimmeecan for the Journey down. - The two Indians went away."

Mar. 30
" Friday little Wind in the E quarter clear thawing Weather. One Man still employed at Canoe Work, and the rest bringing stuff for Paddles."

Mar. 31
" Saturday Wind variable light Breezes cloudy mild Weather. The People employed as yesterday."

Apr. 1 1792
" Sunday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze clear thawing Wea. Early this Morning two of the three Young Indians that came from the Beaver Hills went away and the other stays here. - Several Geese seen to day."

Apr. 2
" Monday Wind Nly a fresh Gale Weather Cloudy with sleet in the afternoon. - The Smith rough hewing stuff for Oars for the Boat, two Men bringing thafts for Canoes the rest gett'g Paddles & doing odd Jobbs about the House. - Swans seen today."

Apr. 3
" Tuesday Wind Wly a fresh Breeze clear cold Weather. The Smith hewing stuff for Oars for the Boat, John Irvin Sen. Planing stuff for Canoes, six Men bringing stuff for Paddles and the rest variously employed within Doors."

Apr. 4
" Wednesday Wind & Weather as yesterday. - The Smith and two Men getting stuff for Timbers for the Boat, part of those into her being rotten, one Man planing Timbers for Canoes, two making up leaf Tobacco, and the rest employ'd about necefsary Jobbs. - In the evening three blackfeet Indians came for Tobacco which they got and went away."

Apr. 5
" Thursday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy & clear alternately. The Smith repairing the Battoo, one Man planing Timbers for Canoes & the rest variously employed. At Noon one Tent of blackfeet Indians arrived brought a few Wolves & Foxes part of which they traded and got Drunk."

Apr. 6
" Friday Wind Nly a fresh Gale clear cold Weather. The People employed about various Jobbs. - Traded with the Indians and they went away; they have brought 150 MB in Wolves & Foxes. - At Noon a Nehethewea Indian came for Tobacco which he got & went away. - Hugh Bakey has been very ill for several days past."

Apr. 7
" Saturday Wind & Weather as yesterday. - Sent John Irvin and four Men to bring Juniper for Stems & Heads Timbers for Canoes and the rest variously employed. - At Noon two blackfeet Indians came for Tobacco which they got and went off again."

Apr. 8
" Sunday Wind WNW a fresh Gale with Snow at intervals. At Noon two Tents of blackfeet Indians arrived; also one Tent of Nehethewea Indians from the Beaver Hills tolerable well gooded."

Apr. 9
" Monday Wind NW a fresh Breeze clear sharp Weather. One Man planing Splinters for Canoes, Smith repairing a trading Gun and the rest employed within Doors. - Traded with the blackfeet Indians & at noon they went away; they have brought 225 MB in Wolves and Foxes."

Apr. 10
" Tuesday Wind & Weather as yesterday. - The Men employ'd as before. - In the afternoon two Young Indians arrived brought 30 parchment Beaver."

Apr. 11
" Wednesday Wind & Weather as before but much Colder. One Man planing Splinters for Canoes, The Smith repairing Boat, the rest employed drying Meat and making fettles for Bundles."

Apr. 12
" Thursday Wind and Weather much the same. - The Smith making Oars for Boat, Taylor making Indian cloathing, one Man planing Splinters for Canoes and the rest employed about various Jobbs. - At Noon twelve Men came in from the barren Ground; also in the evening Ja. Tate and those with him arrived from the Beaver Hills, brought 120 MB in Furrs and 10 Rolls of Birchrind; they had some difficulty to save the few Horses they had with them from being stolen, by the Rascally Indian they fell in with which made them return sooner than they otherwise would have done. - In the evening buried an Indian Woman that died in Childbirth."

Apr. 13
" Friday Wind variable between SW & NW light Breezes with clear Weather. - The Smith repairing the Boat and the rest employed as before."

Apr. 14
" Saturday Wind NE a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy and clear alternately. - Sent four Men away with the Indian Lad who has been here since March 26th. I have sent by them, some Brandy, Tobacco & Ammunition to encourage the Indians to take Birchrind, the Smith repairing the Boat, Taylor making Indian cloathing. sent four Men to take care of the Horses, and the rest employed about odd Jobbs. - At 8 PM four Young Indians arriv'd for Tobacco; these James Tate saw on his Journey home."

Apr. 15
" Sunday Wind as yesterday Cloudy Weather. - Traded with the Indians that arrived on the 8 inst. and gave them a present as they were the best gooded Indians I have seen this Year, having brought 300 made Beaver and only two Men - Gave the Indians Tobacco and they went away."

Apr. 16
" Monday Wind NE a small Breeze Cloudy Weather and snowed a little in the night. Smith making fire Steels Taylor making Indian cloathing, two Men working at Canoe Work & the rest employed at the Prefs. Packed 24 Bundles of Furrs."

Apr. 17
" Tuesday Wind Ely a small Breeze clear Weather. Two Men sawing Gunnels for Canoes, the Smith and one Man working at the Boat, and the rest employed at the Prefs. Packed 24 Bundles of Furrs."

Apr. 18
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday a fresh Breeze Cloudy cold Weather. The People employ'd as before. packed 24 bundles of Furrs."

Apr. 19
" Thursday Wind NE a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy and clear alternately. - The Smith repairing the Battoo, two Men planing Splinters for Canoes and the rest employed at the Prefs. packed 30 bundles of Furrs. - In the evening one Tent of afsinnepoet Indians arrived brought a few Furrs and some dried Provisions."

Apr. 20
" Friday Wind & Weather much the same as yesterday. Smith making Oars for the Boat, three Men working at Canoe Work and the rest packed 19 bundles of Furrs. Traded with the Indians and they went away; these brought 60 made Beaver in Furrs and 150 lb of Provisions."

Apr. 21
" Saturday Wind Nly a small Breeze Weather Cloudy with a little Snow. - The People employed within Doors. Hugh Bakey is so far recovered as to walk out on crutches."

Apr. 22
" Sunday Wind NE a fresh Gale Weather for the most part Cloudy. - In the evening two vagabond blackfeet Indians arrived, gave no account where they had come from, further, than they had lost some of their Countrymen and they was looking after them."

Apr. 23
" Monday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze with Sleet and Rain all day. - The Men employed within doors. - At Noon two muddy River Indians came for Tobacco; which they got and went off again; also in the evening four Nehethewea Indians came for Tobacco which they got & went away."

Apr. 24
" Tuesday little Wind variable first part Cloudy with a thick fogg latter part clear Weather. - The Smith repairing trading Guns, Taylor making Boys Coats for Trade and the rest variously employed. At Noon the Indians mentioned yesterday arrived tolerably well gooded."

Apr. 25
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday Weather Cloudy and clear alternately. - The Men variously employed. Traded with the Muddy River Indians last night and crofsed them early this Morning, to prevent the others from quarreling with them when in Liquor. These have brought 250 made Beaver in Wolves & Foxes."

Apr. 26
" Thursday Wind Nly a fresh Breeze with Cold Cloudy Weather. The Men employed as before. Traded with the Indians and they went away; these have brought 700 MB; the want of Tobacco made them run hard on Cloth and Guns, they had only 34 lbs Tobacco amongst them all, and one hundred would not have been sufficient."

Apr. 27
" Friday Wind Ely a small Breeze with Cold Cloudy Weather. - The Smith repairing the Boat, and the rest employed as before. - At 8 PM James Gaddy and those with him return'd, brought 11 Rolls of Birchrind; they left the Indians yesterday."

Apr. 28
" Saturday Wind SE a small Breeze clear Weather. The Men employed as before. - In the evening a Nehethewea Indian came for Tobacco which he got and went away."

Apr. 29
" Sunday Wind variable fresh Breezes Weather Cloudy and clear alternately - The River broke up last night, the Ice continues driving in the South Channel."

Apr. 30
" Monday Wind Wly a small Breeze clear Weather. Smith finished repairing the Boat, three Men bending Timbers for Canoes and the rest employed at the Prefs. Packed 30 bundles of Furrs - In the evening 15 Tents of Nehethewea Indians arrived on the other side; part of which were crofsed over, traded some Liquor and at 8 PM ferry'd them back again."

May 1 1792
" Tuesday Wind as yesterday a stiff Breeze clear Wea. Sent 8 Men to gather Pitch, five bending Timbers and the rest crofsing Indians and cut Wood for pitching Canoes. At Noon four Sufsew Indians came for Tobacco which they got and went away."

May 2
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. - The Smith repairing a trading Gun, Taylor making Childrens cloathing for Trade and the rest variously employ'd. In the evening above 30 Nehethewea and Sufsew Indians arrived on the other side, most of which were ferry'd over, traded some Liquor and they got Drunk but could not give them so much as they wanted, so that many of their Furrs will go to the Canadians."

May 3
" Thursday Wind and Weather much the same as before. - The Men employed crofsing Indians to and again and making ready for Canoe building. Traded with the Sufsew Indians and ferry'd them over the River."

May 4
" Friday variable with clear Weather. The Smith repairing Indian's Guns, Taylor making Coats for Trade, and the rest employed at the Prefs, packed 26 bundles of Furrs. In the evening traded with some of the Indians and ferry'd them acrofs."

May 5
" Saturday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze clear Weather. The Men variously employed, traded with some Indians and crofsed them over. There has been a good many furrs lost for want of Liquor and Tobacco."

May 6
" Sunday Wind Sly a small Breeze with clear fine Weather. - Traded with the rest of the Indians and crofsed them over to the South side, and all went away. one Man (and his Family) excepted who was brought here almost Dead, and by the situation he is in, it appears to me he has been poisoned."

May 7
" Monday Wind as yesterday with very hot Weather. The Men employed at the Prefs and Canoe building Packed 22 bundles of Furrs, and in the evening buried the Indians Man; he died at 7 AM in great agony very much swelled and his Teeth black."

May 8
" Tuesday Wind Ely a stiff Breeze with warm Weather. Sent four Men to bring the Horses which I intend to send down with Furrs; the rest building and repairing Canoes. In the evening one Tent of Sufsew Indians arrived with Furrs to Trade."

May 9
" Wednesday Wind and Weather as yesterday. At 8 AM sent 10 Men with 24 Horses loaded with 40 bundles of Furrs, for the South Branch House and the rest employed as before. - The Indians traded last night and went away this morning; they had a great demand for Tobacco; but had very little to give them. - Packed four Bundles of Furrs which makes the Trade above 9000 made Beaver."

" Copy of a Letter sent to Mr Wm Walker
Manchester House May 9th 1792
Mr Walker
Sir,
Not having Canoes sufficient to freight the Furrs and Provisions to Cumberland House, induces me to send this party off by land with 24 Horses loaded with 40 bundles of Furrs and Provisions for their Journey.
The backward Spring and the late arrival of the Indians has prevented me from getting the duty required so forward as I could wish, We have got most part of the old Canoes to repair which are very much damaged; and cannot spare any Birchrind till the new Canoes are built. We have only got two off the Bed and have two more to put on.
As it will be troublesome to crofs the Horses now sent to carry Furrs to the South Branch I have therefore given orders to four Men to return as soon as the Furrs are landed on the other side; as some of them are to embark in Canoes on their arrival here. - Six Men accompanys the Furrs to afsist in bringing down the Canoes. So conclude with wishing succefs to the Companys affairs, health and happinefs to You and all under your direction and Remain
Sir,
Your very humble Servt.
William Tomison
PS if Weather permits I hope I shall be able to embark in a Weeks time."

May 10
" Thursday Wind variable Cloudy Weather and broke out Rain at 10 AM which continued the remaining part of the day. - At 6 AM embarked 3 Canoes with Furrs amd Provisions for Cumberland House; these are to crofs the Furrs sent off by Land."

May 11
" Friday Wind NNE a fresh Breeze with Cold Cloudy Weather and Rain all day. - No working without Doors."

May 12
" Saturday Wind NW a fresh Gale with cold Weather and snowed much in the Night. No working at Canoes. At Noon an Indian Man and his Wife arrived; brought a few unskinned Beaver which he traded for Ammunition and Knives."

May 13
" Sunday Wind as yesterday Weather Cloudy and clear alternately. The Men employed building and repairing Canoes; the late Cold Season induces me to put the following Persons to work at Canoes viz. Gilbert Laughton, John Irvin Sen., John Flett and Edward Wishart."

May 14
" Monday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy and clear alternately. - The Men employ'd, building and repairing Canoes. - A strong Frost last Night, a rise of Water in the River above two feet last 24 Hours."

May 15
" Tuesday Wind Sly a small Breeze Weather as yesterday. - The Men employed as before."

May 16
" Wednesday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy and clear alternately. The Men employed building and repairing Canoes. A strong Frost last Night."

May 17
" Thursday Wind variable light Breezes clear fine Weather. - The Men employed as on the preceeding days."

May 18
" Friday Wind Ely a stiff Gale with clear Weather. The Men employed, Pitching and repairing Canoes, also finished one new Canoe ready for pitching. - The blowing Weather prevents me from embarking."

May 19
" Saturday Wind Sly a stiff Breeze Weather as yesterday. At 8 AM embarked for Cumberland House with one Canoe more in Company, paddled till 8 PM then put up. I have left the following Persons at Manchester House viz. James Tate in charge, Andrew Flett, Alexander Gun, Robert Linklatter, Robt. Garson, Hugh Beaky and Nicholas Allen jun.; the three latter all unfit for going down, by accidents."

May 20
" Sunday Wind and Weather as yesterday. At half past 4 AM we embarked, paddled till 7 PM then put up."

May 21
" Monday Wind Ely a stiff Breeze with clear Weather. At 4 AM we embarked, paddled till half past 7 PM then put up; here we found John Harper, John Thompson, James Oman and Alex Johnson; the two latter from the Branch, taking care of the Furrs, sent by Land, as Mr Walker has no conveyance for them."

May 22
" Tuesday Wind NE a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy with Thunder and Rain towards evening. - At 10 PM last night set of for the South Branch and at 5 AM we arrived; found all well, Mr Walker & Henry Hay excepted, who have been ailing during the Winter. Mr Walker, I am of opinion received some hurt when the Canoe was lost on the great Fall."

May 23
" Wednesday Wind as yesterday Weather cloudy with small Rain till 10 AM; afterwards blowed hard. At 7 AM set off from the Branch and at Noon arriv'd at the crofsing place; but the blowing Weather prevented our embarking. - Mr Walker stays up all the Summer also Henry Hay, Alex Johnson and James Oman the latter on account of his being accquainted in going with Indians for Birchrind."

May 24
" Thursday Wind as before a fresh Gale Weather part Cloudy part clear. - At 5 AM we embarked Paddled till 8 PM then put up; obliged to leave our Provisions and embark the Furrs. - At Noon pafsed by Hudson House but found it laid in ashes by the Canadians last fall."

May 25
" Friday Wind SE a fresh Breeze Weather as before. At 3 AM we embarked Paddled and Sailed at times, till 8 PM then put up."

May 26
" Saturday Wind Ely a fresh Breeze Weather Cloudy and clear alternately with a smart Shower of Rain. At 4 AM we embarked paddled till 8 PM then put up."

May 27
" Sunday Wind as yesterday. - At 4 AM we embark'd and paddled hard till 6 PM then arrived safe at Cumberland House, found all well thank God, but the Trade far short of what it was last year. several Indians that had Debt and have never been from this place, have now, gone down to the NRiver House. these did not bring lefs than 400 B to this place; the Canadians have also built a House three days Journey above this, which has not only stopp'd the Indians from coming here, but has also prevented the Building from being carried on."

May 28
" Monday Wind NNE Weather Cloudy with Rain in the evening. - The People employed at the Prefs packed 30 bundles of Furrs."

May 29
" Tuesday Wind as yesterday Weather very Cold with Snow and drift all last night. - At Noon put the People to the Prefs, packed 18 bundles of Furrs."

May 30
" Wednesday Wind Nly a fresh Gale with Cold Wea. till Noon afterwards more moderate. - Packed 12 bundles of Furrs to day, two Men at the Nets, brought 2 Sturgeon and 4 Pike. - At 1 PM four Canoes arrived from the Branch."

May 31
" Thursday Wind variable Weather for the most part Cloudy. - Sent two Men to the Nets brought 1 Sturgeon & 1 Pike, no Weather for repairing Canoes. At Noon five Canoes arrived from Manchester House, these embarked on the 20th instant."

June 1 1792
" Friday Wind variable with Cloudy Weather. The Men employed building a small Canoe and repairing large ones. - At 4 PM four Canoes arrived from Manchester House. - In the evening embarked four Indian Canoes with Furrs for York Fort.
5 Sturgeon from the Nets."

June 2
" Saturday Wind Sly a small Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear. - The Men employed as before. At Noon four Canoes arrived from the South Branch."

June 3
" Sunday Wind variable light Breezes warm Wea. Two Swans and one Beaver from an Indian Hunter."

June 4
" Monday Wind SE a fresh Breeze Weather as yesterday. - The Men employed pitching & repairing Canoes. 6 Beaver from Indian Hunters & 4 Fish from the Nets."

June 5
" Tuesday Wind variable in the North quarter with Rain most part of the day. Could not embark any Canoes. Gave a supply to several Indians and they went away.
2 Sturgeon and 1 Pike from the Nets."

June 6
" Wednesday Wind Sly a gentle Breeze clear hot Wea. At 8 AM embarked 17 Men in 8 Canoes loaded with 112 bundles of Furrs; the rest getting ready to embark tomorrow please God Weather permits."

June 7
" Thursday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze Weather as yesterday. At 4 AM embarked 12 Canoes, also two Indian loaded with 178 bundles of Furrs; took a survey of Trading Goods and Stores and at 3 PM embarked with 3 Canoes in Company but was obliged to engage four Indians to Man the above Canoes. I have left Magnus Twatt in charge of the House, with John Davey & Wm Hawkland, the latters time is expired but being short of Men to Man the Canoes, induced me to leave him up, as two Men were too few to leave at the House, indeed had I twenty more there would be employ for them all."

June 8
" Friday Wind variable fresh Gales with Thunder & Rain at times. Paddled all last night and till 6 this Morning then put ashore for the Rain and at 9 put off again. Paddled till half past 8 PM then put up."

June 9
" Saturday Wind WNW a strong Gale Cloudy Weather rained much in the Night. - At half past 6 AM we embarked Paddled & Sailed at times till 7 PM then put up. it blowed too hard with much swell in the Muddy Lake."

June 10
" Sunday Wind variable from W to SE fresh Breezes with clear Weather. - At 9 AM we embarked, Paddled and Sailed till half past 8 PM then put up in the Cedar Lake."

June 11
" Monday Wind in the East quarter fresh Breezes Weather as yesterday. - At 4 AM we embarked, at 11 got to the great Fall carried all over and went down with 14 Canoes, here we joined those that went first away."

June 12
" Tuesday Wind ESE a moderate Breeze clear Weather. At 6 AM went down with the rest of the Canoes, and at 9 proceeded through the great Lake, paddled remaining part of the day and all night."

June 13
" Wednesday Wind variable light Breezes fine Weather. Continued paddling till 11 PM then put up at the entrance of the Lake much fatigued, having Paddled 105 Miles without any rest."

June 14
" Thursday Wind in the South quarter fresh Breezes Clear Weather. At 3 AM we embarked and Paddled till 9 then put up to repair leaky Canoes; as also to have rest, being much fatigued the two preceeding days."

June 15
" Friday Wind NE a fresh Gale clear Weather. At 4 AM we proceeded, paddled till half past 8 PM then put up."

June 16
" Saturday Wind & Weather as yesterday. - At ? AM we embarked, and Paddled till half past 8 PM then put up in E,chee oma mis."

June 17
" Sunday Wind SE a fresh Breeze first part clear latter part Cloudy with Rain. - At 4 AM we proceeded and Paddled, till 3 PM then carried over the white Fall, and put up. - Saw one Tent of Invalid Indians, the Men having gone down to York Factory 10 days ago."

June 18
" Monday Wind WSW a fresh Breeze clear hot Weather. At 4 AM we embarked, Paddled and Sailed till half past 8 PM then put up in Pe the pow nip peck Lake. had three carrying places to day."

June 19
" Tuesday Wind Nly a fresh Breeze with Cloudy Weather. At half past 3 AM we proceeded and paddled till 10 then obliged to put ashore as it blowed too hard; at 1 PM put off again and paddled till 6 PM then put up at the end of the Lake; here we came up with Mr Isham who informs me, he has not got above half his Furrs down; what a pity it is the Company should think of carrying on a Trade to any advantage with so small a number of Men; for I say, that 60 Men more would not be sufficient to carry on the inland businefs; I am sorry that we your Honours Servants should be so degraded, by those that were not worth a Shilling a few Years ago, and now, worth Thousands; but I must say, was your Honours to make those exertions, in England, the Service requires it would give some credit to your Honour's Factors employed in the Country, whereas, at present they have none."

June 20
" Wednesday Wind Ely a fresh Gale Weather part Cloudy part clear; rained all last Night. - Did not proceed."

June 21
" Thursday Wind variable Weather Cloudy with rain at times. - At Noon we proceeded, paddled, handed, and carried till 7 PM then put up; had 4 Canoes broken to day and many of the Furrs got wet."

June 22
" Friday Wind Wly a fresh Gale with rain all the after part of the day. - At 5 AM we embarked, at 7 carried over the Trout Fall and entered the Knee or Mas keech e quan Lake, Sailed till Noon, then put up."

June 23
" Saturday Wind WNW a stiff Breeze Weather part Cloudy part clear. - At 5 AM we embarked, & at 1 PM enter'd Pike River, where we Paddled and carried till 8 PM then entered the Swampy Lake and half past 9 put up."

June 24
" Sunday Wind NW a fresh Gale Wea. as yesterday could not proceed down the Hill River as it blowed too hard. The Men dried 14 bundles of Furrs that got wet the other day by a Canoe's being much damaged."

June 25
" Monday Wind and Weather as yesterday. Still Weather bound. James Sanderson, Edw. Wishart and James Marowick repairing a Canoe that was much damaged the other day."

June 26
" Tuesday Wind variable in the North quarter fresh Breezes with Cloudy Wea. - At half past 4 AM we entered the Hill River, Paddled, handed and carried till half past 8 PM then put up."

June 27
" Wednesday Wind Wly a fresh Breeze Cloudy Wea. At 4 AM we proceeded a little way, then obliged to put a shore as it broke out a heavy Rain, which continued till 5 PM, at 6 put off again and paddled till half past 8 then put up on the last carrying place but one."

June 28
" Thursday Wind in the North quarter fresh Breezes with clear Weather. - At 4 AM we proceeded and at 7 got over the last Fall and continued paddling till half past 9 then put up 10 Miles below Steel River."

June 29
" Friday Wind variable from W to NW and blowed a stiff Gale. - At half past 1 AM we embarked Paddled and Sailed till Noon, then arrived safe at the new Building thank God; where we landed the Furrs, afterward to the old Place and was kindly received by Mr Colen and the other Gentlemen."

" William Tomison."



B.121/A/7

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