" Journal of Occurrances and Transactions at Severn House America by John Ballanden Master for the Honourable Hudsons Bay Company Commencing the 4th August 1789 and ending the 7th August 1790."



" By James Whitford"


Aug. 4 Tuesday 1789
" Wind NNW a gentle breeze with foggy weather. People at the House employed at necefsary duties. - The Sloop wind bound. Mr Ballanden did not go on board."

Aug. 5 Wed.
" Wind SEbS a gentle breeze with fine clear weather. Early in the morning received a Packet from York Factory. At 10 AM Mr Ballanden went down in a Boat to the Sloop and soon after she got underway and worked out of the River mouth. At 2 oClock PM lost sight of her. - Armourer cleaning fouling pieces, Taylor making Indian Cloaths, the others brought the Boat up from the Marsh. - Sent two Indian Boys a hunting which Mr Ballanden detaind for that purpose."

" A Copy of a Letter to Mr John Ballanden
Master at Severn House
York Factory 16th July 1789
Dear Sir,
I embrace the opportunity of writing by Ribbons, one of your Homeguard Indians, who arrived here with others last night (with a few Deer skins) they tell me they came here purposely to see some of their friends who reside at and about this factory. - As I do not wish to encourage Natives to draw them from other Settlements of the Honourable Company, I send them off as early as pofsible. I wish my Colleagues (in Office) would follow the same rule, it would be a considerable and annual saving to our Employers.
Mr Cook arrived from Severn the 20th March and deliverd your Letters of the 8th. - I am sorry no Englishman accompanied him, as our distrefs hath been great ever since and businefs at a stand for want of men; only two labouring hands left fit for duty, the rest were laid up with the Scurvy: Indeed its impofsible to convey on paper our deplorable situation: the poor afflicted men recover but slowly on account of the scarsity of Game. Our English provisions turning out so bad, great part of which is in a putrid state and to which all our illnefs is imputed. Many men are now miserable objects and as helplefs as Children.
Mr Tomison and men arrived early on the 2nd of July in twenty four Large and seven small Canoes with upwards of 16,000 MB and things are in forwardnefs for men to return in a few days. - The great urgency of affairs at this critical Juncture obliges us to break thro' the Honourable Companys commands once more, by engaging men who are ordered home, but these are only those who are sensible of their past indiscretion, and returns on modest terms. - I hope our Hon. Employers will not be displeased at our conduct (the Chief part being steersmen) yet notwithstanding this we shall not be able to send more than 15 or 16 Canoes back for want of hands to man them, only four are recovered (at the Factory) fit to send Inland.
No Deer to be seen; the few Geese killed in the Spring held us till within these two days past when all were expended. - Here are nearly one hundred men to feed and not a morsel of meat to eat (No one will taste the English provisions). What we shall do God only knows. -
My trade is not equal to last year, and am apprehensive will not: The Canadians are near us, and prepairing to build a House in the fall, within three days Journey from York Factory up the North River. - I have not seen this Season many of my Indians who are large debtors, and am too sensibly convinced they carried many good furs to the Pedlars. I wish to see the Sloop early in August. - Mr Tomison Joins me and Mefsmates in Compliments to you and yours.
Sir
Your very humble Servt
Joseph Colen.
P.S. If you have any Geese to spare or a Roll of last season Brazil tobacco, it will be very thankfully received here. - The tobacco which I sent you a Receipt for last Season, being taken on board thro' mistake has distrefsed this place much, we were not able to pack half the quantity wanted by Mr Tomison Inland. I had two Rolls sent from Church. which is of so bad a quality no Indian will smoak it.
John Wood, John Jones and all those whose times Expire in 1790 are to send their resolves to York Fort to be entered in our Books for the Honble Company's determ'n."

Aug. 6
" Wind SW a moderate breeze with drizzling rain. three of our Home guard Indians came in brought a few Deer skins. - People employed cleaning their Cabbins Guard Room &c. - Received a few Small Birds fromn Indian Boys."

Aug. 7
" Wind variable with much rain. - The Armourer cleaning Musquets, Taylor making Indian cloathing, Thomas Catley plaining staves for sleds, John Taylor plaistering the back part of the House and one man afsisting him."

Aug. 8
" Wind SW with heavy rain thunder and Lightening. Men employed triming the Scythes, ready for making Hay."

Aug. 9
" Weather much the same as yesterday. - One Canoe of half Homeguards came and brought a few Deer skins."

Aug. 10 Monday
" Wind W with heavy rain. - Men employed indoors at necefsary Jobs. - Another Canoe arrived with a small quamtity of Dried Venison and a few Deer skins, traded what they had and they went away in Company with those that came yesterday."

Aug. 11
" Wind NW a gentle breeze. - Five of our Homeguard Indians came in and brought some green Venison, paid them and they went away. - People employed cutting grafs. Having occasion to broach a Cask of Malt for Brewing small Beer, was so unfortunate to find the remaining quantity totally spoilled by the deludge that happened the 24th May last, as was also a great part of the flour &c."

Aug. 12
" Wind NW a stiff gale. - Employed cutting grafs. Received a few small Birds from Indian Boys."

Aug. 13
" Wind as yesterday - pleasant weather. - Employed making Hay - Received a few fish from an Indian man."

Aug. 14
" Wind W light airs - People employed cutting grafs. - Musquetoes and Sandflies very troublesome."

Aug. 15
" Wind NW and NNE fresh breezes with thick foggy wr. People employed as yesterday."

Aug. 16
" Wind NW a gentle breeze with clear weather. - Performed Divine Service."

Aug. 17 Monday
" Wind W light airs clear weather. Received a few fish and Small Birds from Indians. - Men employed making Hay."

Aug. 18
" A gentle breeze at NE with clear weather. - Men employed as yesterday."

Aug. 19
" Pleasant clear weather wind W. - Men employed as before. - Received a few Small Birds from Indian Boys."

Aug. 20
" Wind SW a moderate breeze - In the morning a White frost. - Employed attending the Hay."

Aug. 21
" Wind, weather and Employment as yesterday - A few Gray Geese hath made their appearance in our Marshes."

Aug. 22
" Wind ESE with rain and foggy weather. - People emp'd cleaning their Cabbins, Guard Room &c."

Aug. 23
" Wind SW with hot sultry weather, during the first and middle parts, the latter heavy rain, thunder and Lightening. - Read Prayers. - Received a few Ducks from Indian Boys."

Aug. 24 Monday
" Wind WbN with a continuance of Rain all day. - Arm. cleaning fowling pieces. - Taylor making trading cloaths, Thomas Catley and John Taylor plaining staves for small sleds, the rest hunting, killed a few small plover."

Aug. 25
" Wind NW a strong gale with rain at times. Men emp'd at various necefsary Jobs."

Aug. 26
" Wind S and SW light airs with very hot weather. Men employed making Hay. - Received a few Ducks and small Birds from Indian Boys."

Aug. 27
" Wind South a stiff gale with clear weather. Men employed making Hay. - Last night died on the Plantation a poor Indian man who has been ailing ever since the begining of the Spring. - The Indians remaining now about the House to be provided for, is two Blind Women, five Widows, seven Orphan Children and two Lads whom Mr Ballanden detain'd to hunt in the Sloops absence."

Aug. 28
" Wind NW blowing a very strong gale with a continuance of heavy rain all day. - Men employed indoors at necefsary Jobs. - Thomas Catley mending the Guard Room Chimney. - Received a few Ducks and Small Birds from Indian detainers."

Aug. 29
" Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. - Armourer cleaning hunting guns. - Taylor making cloathing for Indians, Thomas Catley with the others mending the Chimneys and Ovens. - Received a few fish from an old Indian man."

Aug. 30
" Wind SW a white frosty morning with clear weather. - Read Prayers."

Aug. 31 Monday
" Wind variable all round the Compafs with cloudy weather. Men employed bring'g home Hay. Received a Deer from an Indian Lad and a few Ducks."

Sept. 1 1789
" Wind ESE a fresh breeze with foggy weather. - Men employed bringing Hay to the House. - Three Indian Lads came in to hunt Geese, brought eleven Beaver in Deer-skins as part of their debt. - After fitting them out with Guns, Ammunition &c. they directly went over to the South side the River to tent in order to attend the hunt."

Sept. 2
" Wind NW with a hard frost in the morning clear weather. People employed as yesterday."

Sept. 3
" Wind and weather as yesterday. - Men employed at various necefsary Jobs."

Sept. 4
" Wind W and NW pleasant weather. - Employed stacking the Hay. One old Indian man and his family came from acrofs the River to hunt Geese on the north side for us."

Sept. 5
" Wind SW with a hard frost in the morning - fine weather the remainder of the day. - People employed at necefsary Jobs. Received two Geese from an Indian the first this season."

Sept. 6
" Wind as yesterday, clear pleasant weather. Read Prayers."

Sept. 7 Monday
" Wind and weather as yesterday. Men employed washing their Cabbins, Guard Room &c. - An Indian man came acrofs the River, brought one Gray Goose, and returned again with John Jennings and an Indian Lad to serve out Powder and Shot for the Natives during the hunt."

Sept. 8
" Wind SE with a thick fogg - People employed cleaning the Yard and Warehouse, Offices &c."

Sept. 9
" Wind and weather as yesterday. - Employed at necefsary Jobs. - Received four Geese from Indian hunters. - Three Wenescaw River Indians came in with a few Deer skins."

Sept. 10
" Wind SW a gentle breeze with hot sultry weather. Employed giving the Wenescaw River Indians Credit. - Last night heavy rain, thunder and Lightening."

Sept. 11
" Wind variable all round the Compafs, with rain most part of the day. - Employed putting the Indians acrofs the River that came yesterday. Received eight Geese from hunters. - John Jennings and the Indian Lad that attends at the South side the River came to the House for necefsaries and immediately returned."

Sept. 12
" Wind WbN squally at times with rain. - People employed cleaning the Gangways - Yard &c. - John Jennings and the Ind. Lad returned to their tent acrofs the River to serve ammuntion to the Indians that is hunting there - At 4 PM saw the Sloop making towards the point of Marsh beacon. At 7 do. she anchored near the Big Beacon and at 9 Do. Mr Ballanden came on shore."


" By John Ballanden "


Sept. 13
" Wind North a strong gale at times, with heavy showers of Rain, sleet and Snow. - Early in the morning sent all the People belonging to the House, in two Boats down to the Sloop to give what afsistance they could in bringing her up to the Launch, but in getting underway, she got aground. At noon the Boats came up loaded with goods, which as soon as was deliver'd they returned in order again to load them. - Received 20 Geese from Indians."

Sept. 14 Monday
" Pleasant clear weather wind WSW - The Sloop still aground. People employed unloading her, and bringing the Goods up to the House. - Received 8 Geese from hunters."

Sept. 15
" Wind, Weather and Employment the same as yesterday."

Sept. 16
" The first part of this day pleasant clear weather - The middle and latter parts showers of rain, Sleet and Snow. The Sloop still aground. - People employed unloading her and bringing the Goods up to the House in Boats - Received 95 Geese from Indian Hunters acrofs the River."

Sept. 17
" Thick hazy weather most part of the day wind ENE - Employed as yesterday. - Two Canoes arrived with a few Summer Beaver and Deerskins."

Sept. 18
" Wind WNW a fresh breeze with clear weather. At 11 AM the Sloop floated and got up as far as the point of Woods where she anchored to wait for the next flood tide to come up to the Launch end. - One Canoe more arrived to get credit. Brought a few Beaver and some dried meat. - Traded with them and the Indians that came yesterday also gave them Credit. - Late at night 2 Canoes came for debt."

Sept. 19
" Pleasant clear weather wind variable. Early in the morning the Sloop came up to the Launch end and deliver'd the remainder of the Cargo. - At noon Mr Moore with the Sailors went down with her, and moord her in the Creek for the Winter. - After which they all came up to the House with their bedding &c. - The following is a List of the Servants belonging to your Honours at Severn House

Mr Ballanden Master of the House
William Moore Master of the Sloop
James Whitford Writer
John Jennings do.
John Harrison Carpenter
John Jones Armourer
Thomas Flett Taylor
George Foreman Sloops Mate
James Sutherland Mariner
William Cromartie do.
William Gouling do.
Thomas Huntley do.
Beaky Goudie do.
Thomas Catley do.
William Dean Labourer
John Wood do.
John Taylor do.
James Halcro Mr Ballandens Servant."

Sept. 20
" Wind N a strong gale with very thick foggy weather. - Myself employed trusting the Natives and prepard them all ready for going away to morrow morning."

Sept. 21 Monday
" A moderate breeze with clear weather. - Men employed stowing away the Goods in the Warehouse and doing other necefsary Jobs. Indians all of the Plantation except two Blind Women, four helplefs Widows with 13 Orphan Children which must be protected about the House, not being able to get them of with their Countrymen."

Sept. 22
" Small showers of rain most part of this day, wind ESE a gentle breeze. - People employed helving and grinding hatchets,* also sharpening the Crofs cut saws. - Received 250 Geese from our Hunters acrofs the River. - Two Canoes of Half home guards came to get Credit, brought a few Summer Beaver and Otter skins."
[In the margin "* in order to go to the Woods to Sprigg and Collect our next Winters firewood"]

Sept. 23
" Wind W a moderate breeze with dull heavy weather. - Early in the morning sent 13 Men to the Woods as yesterday mentioned. - Myself with the others that is remain'g at the House giving the Natives debt that came yesterday. and one Canoe more arrived - Received 265 Tickomeg from Indians."

Sept. 24
" Calm pleasant clear weather - 13 Men at the Woods sprigging and collecting firewood ready for hauling out to the Bank edge in the Winter. - John Jennings with an Indian Lad serving ammunition to the Indians acrofs the River. Myself with the three others that is remaining at the House at necefsary Jobs. - Indians of yesterday went away as did those of the preceeding day."

Sept. 25
" A Strong gale at NbW with heavy rain Thunder and Lightening. - Received a few Geese from our North Marsh hunters."

Sept. 26
" The weather more moderate than yesterday. - The few People that is remaining at the House employed cutting firewood. This day saw a great many White and Gray Geese flying towards the Southward."

Sept. 27
" Mild pleasant weather with South. Received 130 Geese from Hunters."

Sept. 28 Monday
" Wind NNW a fresh breeze with snowy showers all day. Myself and the three others that is remaining at the house at necefsary Jobs."

Sept. 29
" Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. - Employed cutting firewood."

Sept. 30
" Wind ESE a fresh breeze with a continuance of Snow all day. - Men cut firewood."

Oct. 1 1789
" Wind WNW a fresh breeze, clear weather and a very hard frost. - The few Indians that has been hunting Geese for us this fall came to the House as all the Geese difsapeared off the Coast last night - They have killed 675 which I have paid them for and given them Credit to near 400 Beaver in Trading Goods."

Oct. 2
" Wind WSW a moderate breeze with clear weather. - Thawed a little in the middle of the day. - Goose Hunters went away to provide for themselves during the Winter. - John Jennings and the Indian Lad that was with him acrofs the River afsisting in serving ammunition to the Indians during the Goose hunt, came to the House and brought with him 200 Geese being the remainder of the hunt this fall. - Four Wenescaw River Indians came for debt, brought near 40 MB in Sundry kinds of furs."

Oct. 3
" Calm pleasant clear thawing weather. - Gave the Wenescaw Indians debt and they went away. - In the Evening the People whom I sent to the Woods on the 23rd Ult. came home having compleated their Job in sprigging and Collecting our next Winters fewel - Saw several flocks of White Geese and Swans flying towards our Marshes."

Oct. 4
" Wind WNW a fresh breeze with clear weather - Last night a very hard frost. - Received 70 lb of Green Venison from a Home Guard Indian man which came to the House to get his gun repaired."

Oct. 5 Monday
" Pleasant clear weather. Wind as yesterday. - Armourer repair'g an Indian gun. - the others took? up the Launch and did sundry necefsary Jobs."

Oct. 6
" A continuance of fine weather. People brought up the Coals from the Launch, afterwards hauld two of the Boats up on the bank, leaving one moord in the River ready for crofsing the River of? occasion. - The Indian man which came on Sunday returned to his family."

Oct. 7
" Wind East a moderate breeze with drizzling rain all day. People employed making small Sleds, Cutting out Winter Cloathing, repairing hunting guns &c. Received two Deer from Home Guard Indians, after receiving payment for them they went away immediately."

Oct. 8
" Wind SSE a gentle breeze with clear pleasant weather. - Armourer repairing hunting guns. - Taylor tayloring for the men. The others preparing to go abroad a hunting. - Two Canoes came down the River for debt, brought a few Deer skins and some half dried meat."

Oct. 9
" Pleasant calm clear weather. - Early in the morning sent Mr Moore, Mr Whitford and William Cromartie to Waweastnock to Snare Rabbets and angle fish. - James Sutherland, John Jennings and Beaky Goudie to Bear Island on the same duty, with eight Weeks provisions - Sent 5 Men in a Boat along with them to give them afsistance to their respective places. - Received five Joints of Venison from a Home guard Indian which came for necefsaries. - In the evening he returned to his family."

Oct. 10
" A Gentle breeze at SW with clear weather. - those at the house employed cleaning their Cabbins, Guard Room &c. also cut some firewood. Mr Moore's afsistants returned having seen him landed at the proper place, along with his Companions. - Last night a poor old Woman died on the plantation."

Oct. 11
" Wind and weather much the same as yesterday."

Oct. 12 Monday
" Wind SSE a gentle breeze with drizzling rain all day. Carpenter and Thomas Catley framing our Bell posts, Armourer making iron work for do. - Taylor making Indian Cloathing, the others making small Sleds."

Oct. 13
" Thick hazy weather wind East blowing fresh. Carpenter, Catley and Armourer as yesterday. - Two men sawing boards, One man making small Sleds, and sent the others a hunting Partridges towards Pepowaten for a day or two."

Oct. 14
" Wind and weather as yesterday and Employment much the same. - Those I sent a hunting yesterday returned with 12 Partridges, being all that they saw."

Oct. 15
" Clear pleasant weather, until the evening then cloudy and inclinable to Snow, wind N. - Employed at various Jobs and hauled the Sein net, caught a fine quantity of Tickomeg which is very acceptable both for ourselves and the poor helplefs Natives which is laying on the plantation to the number of 25 Small and great."

Oct. 16
" Wind NW a fresh breeze with snowy showers all day. - People employed at various necefsary Jobs."

Oct. 17
" Wind as yesterday, clear frosty weather. - A little shelving ice laying along the sides of the River, for the first time this season. - People cleand the House, Yard &c, afterwards cut firewood."

Oct. 18
" Wind South and ENE moderate breezes with thick fogg at times - Performed Divine Service. - One Canoe arrived with a few Deer skins, some dried and Green Ven."

Oct. 19 Monday
" Wind SW a pleasant breeze with clear weather. Armourer repairing and cleaning Musquets. - Carpenter with the others having finished hanging the Bell up over the inner Gateway - Traded with the Indians that came yesterday and gave them debt. - In the evening they went away up the River to Join their families."

Oct. 20
" Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. Carpenter, Armourer, and Taylor employed in their respective businefs, the others that is at the House making small sleds. In the evening hauld the Sein net, caught a fine quantity of Tickomeg fish most of which I distributed amongst the poor Home Invalid Natives which lives most miserably not being able to supply them with that quantity of Oatmeal, Pease &c as usual owing to the quantity left at York Factory last fall, the Sloop not being able to stow it all."

Oct. 21
" Calm clear pleasant weather. - Carpenter doing some necefsary Jobs about the house. - Armourer repairing hunting guns. Taylor making trading Waistcoats for the Natives. Mr Moore and two men hunting at Waweastnock. John Jennings and two do. at Bear Island, and this day sent Thomas Catley with an Indian Lad to Goose Creek on the same duty. - The others that remains at the House cut firewood and repaird the Platform. In the evening two Indians arrived in a Canoe with some dried meat and a few Deer skins."

Oct. 22
" Wind WNW a fresh breeze with clear frosty weather. In the morning perceiv'd a skin of ice all acrofs the River. People employed cutting firewood, and in the evening hauld the Sein, caught a Large quantity of Tickomeg fish which I shall endeavour to get froze for Winter use. - The Weather being cold the Indians did not go away."

Oct. 23
" Wind NW clear and very sharp. - A great deal of ice driving in the River, which prevents the Indians from setting off in their Canoe. - Men employed at necefsary duty."

Oct. 24
" Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. Employed cutting firewood and cleand the Yard &c."

Oct. 25
" The weather more milder than the two proceeding days. Put the two Indians before mentioned acrofs the River in a Boat, obliged to leave their Canoe and walk to their families by land, on account of their not being able to paddle up the River for ice. which is driving very thick."

Oct. 26 Monday
" Wind East blowing fresh, at times a little snow falling. Early in the morning sent two men up to Beaver Creek to angle trout and Snare Rabbets. also sent four men along with them in a Boat to afsist them, and in the evening returned having landed them safe. - Those few that is remaining at the House employed at necefsary Jobs."

Oct. 27
" Mild pleasant weather, wind variable all round the Compafs. Armourer repairing fouling pieces - Carpenter and one man repairing the Platforms. One man repairing fishing nets. Taylor making trading cloaths - the other three men that remain at the House at various employments."

Oct. 28
" Calm pleasant weather - The River being almost clear of Ice, and the tide answering, Early in the morning hauled the Sein net, and caught upwards of two ? of Gwiniad fish after which employed as yesterday."

Oct. 29
" Wind South blowing fresh until noon then WSW a strong gale with Sleet and Snow - Carpenter repairing Window frames, Armourer repairing hunting guns. - Taylor making Winter cloathing for some of the men. - The rest cut firewood."

Oct. 30
" Wind as yesterday as at noon with a continuance of heavy rain and Sleet. - People employed at necefsary Jobs indoors. - Myself and an Indian Lad angled 95 fine Trout at a Creek about seven miles distant from the House."

Oct. 31
" A strong gale at WNW with Snow and a very hard frost. Haul'd up the Factory Boat and Canoe upon the Bank; - Cut firewood and did sundry necefsary Jobs. - Ice driving thick in the River, and only made since last evening."

Nov. 1 1789
" Wind as yesterday, clear freezing weather. - River ice set fast abreast the House."

Nov. 2 Monday
" Sharp clear weather - Employed as follows. Nine men abroad at different departments hunting and angling fish. Those at the House repairing fowling pieces, Window frames, Glazing and Tayloring."

Nov. 3
" Wind W a moderate breeze with drizzling Snow all day. - Sent the People a guning Partridges about the House, at present they are very scarce, for from six men that was a hunting this day, I only received 5. no more I was told was seen. One of the Home Invalid Indians crofs'd the River upon the Ice abreast the house for the first time this fall. - Received 45 Trout from an Indian Woman."

Nov. 4
" Wind NW a moderate breeze with clear sharp weather. Employed repairing hunting guns, doing some necefsary Jobs in the Carpenters way, Tayloring &c. 10 Partridges to day."

Nov. 5
" Clear sharp weather, wind W? People employed at various necefsary Jobs.- 65 Trout from Indians."

Nov. 6
" Wind variable light breezes, inclinable to Snow - People employed guning Partridges 16 to day."

Nov. 7
" Sharp clear weather wind N and moderate. The few men that remains at the House employed at necefsary Jobs. Myself with an Indian Lad for the two preceeding days has been angling fish distant from the House 15 Miles, caught 126 Trout and 11 Burbot weighing 187 lb."

Nov. 8
" A continuance of very sharp clear weather, wind in the NW blowing fresh. - River ice fast as low down as the point of Marsh beacon."

Nov. 9 Monday
" Monday Wind moderate in the SW quarter. - Cloudy - In the morning sent three men to Pepowaten with three Weeks provisions to hunt Partridges, and attend a few set guns. five men remains now at the House."

Nov. 10
" Thick snowy weather most part of the day and all last night - Cut firewood and clean'd the Yard."

Nov. 11
" Weather as yesterday snowing very thick. wind SSE. 13 Men employed abroad hunting and fishing. Myself with the four that remains at the House at various employ't."

Nov. 12
" Clear weather wind NW blowing fresh. Myself and an Indian Invalid for the two days past has been angling fish caught 95 Trout & 13 Burbot - People this day cut firewood and cleand the yard. also killed one of our Bulls which weighed 530 lb."

Nov. 13
" Wind South a moderate breeze with thick snowy weather at times. - People employed guning Partridges. 35 killed about the House and 50 from the men at Pepowaten, also received 25 Trout from Beaver Creek fishermen."

Nov. 14
" Wind WSW blowing fresh at times with a low drift. Hunter and fishermen returned to their tents. - People at the House cut firewood and opened a Water hole in the River ice to freshen provisions therein."

Nov. 15
" Pleasant clear weather Wind W."

Nov. 16 Monday
" Wind variable thick snowy weather most part of the day. Armourer employed repairing and cleaning fouling pieces, Taylor making Cloaths for trade. - Carpenter doing some necefsary Jobs indoors. - The other abroad hunting Partridges, angling fish and Snaring Rabbets."

Nov. 17
" A Strong gale at NW with thick snow and drift. People cut firewood and cleand the Gangways, also put down a few Guns along the North side of the River for foxes."

Nov. 18
" Wind more moderate than yesterday, but continues very thick drifting weather. - People employed indoors at various duties."

Nov. 19
" Sharp clear weather wind W and WSW moderate breezes. Armourer and Taylor employed at their respective duties. Myself with the two others that remains at the House guning Partridges. 17 to day."

Nov. 20
" Wind and weather as yesterday. - People cut firewood and Brew'd small Beer. - Received 80 Partridges from Pepowaten Hunters, and 32 Trout from Beaver Creek fishermen."

Nov. 21
" Thick snowy weather, wind ENE blowing fresh. The People that is station'd at the House employed hunting Partridges, and attending a few set guns. - Hunters and fishermen returned to their tents."

Nov. 22
" Sharp clear weather, wind W and NW - Performed Divine Service. - Tho. Catley came to the House from Goose Creek brought 60 Trout, the produce of 5 Weeks endeavour. - No Partridges to be seen near this quarter or game of any kind."

Nov. 23 Monday
" Mild cloudy weather, most part of the day, wind East blowing fresh. - The evening snowing very thick. Men employed hunting Parridges, 9 to day. - Thomas Catley returned to his tent with orders to come home next friday with his tent and bedding."

Nov. 24
" Wind variable clear pleasant weather. Armourer cleaning and repairing fouling pieces. - Carpenter doing some necefsary Jobs in the trading Room. Taylor making trading cloaths. One man went round the set guns no Luck. - The rest of the People tenting abroad hunting and angling fish."

Nov. 25
" Dark cloudy weather, wind variable. - People as yesterday. Myself guning Partridges. killed 13 and two Rabbets. - Partridges and Rabbets (near the House) as scarce as last year."

Nov. 26
" Close Rhimy weather, wind WSW moderate. People cut firewood, and sledged Snow from out the yard. Mr Moore came to the House from Waweastnock, brought 16 Rabbets the produce of seven Weeks hunt to him and two others, also James Sutherland and Beaky Goudie from Bear Island with 27 Rabbets and 32 Partridges. their produce being the same time."

Nov. 27
" Wind and weather nearly the same as yesterday. Carpenter, Taylor and Armourer employed in their respective branches. - the others hunting killed nine Partridges. James Sutherland and Beaky Goudie returned to their tent with orders to come home friday with their tent, bedding &c. and Tho. Catley with the Indian Lad that was tenting with him came home according to order as nothing is to be got near to where they have been tenting. Received 92 Partridges from Hunters at Pepowaten and 30 fish from Beaver Creek fishermen."

Nov. 28
" Pleasant clear warm weather, wind East. - People employ'd at various necefsary Jobs. Mr Moore returned to his tent with the same orders as Sutherland &c received yesterday. Hunters and Fishermen returned to their tents."

Nov. 29
" Close Rhimy weather, wind variable."

Nov. 30 Monday
" Mild cloudy weather, wind W. People employed at various Jobs. - Caught a Wolf at one of our Set guns."

Dec. 1 1789
" Wind and Weather as yesterday - Employed guning Partridges. 18 to day."

Dec. 2 Wednesday
" A continuance of fine mild pleasant weather - Arm'r repairing the hinges of the Trading Room door - Carpenter afsisting him. - Taylor making trading Cloaths. - The others and myself did sundry necefsary Jobs. - Four Home Guard Indian men with their families came to the House for necefsaries and to get their guns repaired. they brought 195 lb Green Venison and 31 Beaver in Sundries. - These Indians I have not seen since last Spring hav'g been laying at, and near York Factory, the whole of last Summer, with the York Indian Homeguards, whom they say has given them great encouragement to repeat their visits as is the Chief of that place."

Dec. 3
" Wind variable light breezes with drizzling snow all day. Armourer repairing Indian guns. Carpenter doing some necefsary Jobs in the Warehouse. Taylor as before the others guning Partridges 11 to day and 30 fine Trout from an Indian man."

Dec. 4
" Wind SSE a moderate breeze with snowy weather. - Men employed at necefsary duty. - Mr Moore and his Tentmates from Waweastnock came home with their tent and bedding &c according to order. - as did James Sutherland from Bear Island, as no Partridges, Rabbets or fish is to be got near to where they have been tenting this fall. 90 Partridges from one of our Pepowaten hunters."

Dec. 5
" Thick snowy showers at times, wind in the Eastern quarter. People employed sledging snow from out the yard and cutting firewood. - Pepowaten hunter returned to his tent. - Homeguard Indians that came on Wednesday returned to Join the remainder of their families which they left dist't from this house about 170 Miles."

Dec. 6
" Pleasant clear weather, wind W. - Armourer very ill. - About noon two men home Guard Indians came in from the North'd for supplys, having left their families in great distrefs for want of Provisions, no Deer being on the Coast, and Partridges and Rabbets none to be got."

Dec. 7 Monday
" Mild pleasant weather wind variable. Armourer as yesterday. - Two men sawing boards. - Taylor making trad'g Cloaths, the others hunting Partridges 37 to day. - Indians that came yesterday returned with supplys of Provisions and ammunition for their families."

Dec. 8
" Thick drifting weather all day. wind NW. People employed at sundry Jobs and brewing small Beer. - Armourer much better."

Dec. 9
" Clear sharp weather, wind as yesterday. - Two men sawing boards for sundry uses. - Taylor and Armourer employed at their respective duties. One man making firesteels the others guning Partridges. killed 11."

Dec. 10
" Close rhimy weather, wind variable, light breezes - Carpenter and one man doing some necefsary Jobs in the Warehouse. Armourer cleaning fouling pieces. Taylor making cloaths for trade, the others cut firewood."

Dec. 11
" Wind and weather variable. Tradesmen employed as yesterday. - the others hunting Partridges. killed 3 and received 80 from Pepowaten hunters, also 60 fine Trout from Beaver Creek fishermen."

Dec. 12
" Pleasant mild weather, wind in the Southern and Eastern quarters. Employed sharpening Crofs cut saws, Cutting firewood and putting provisions in the River to freshen. Hunters and fishermen returned to their tents."

Dec. 13
" Weather as yesterday. - Performed Divine Service."

Dec. 14 Monday
" Wind WNW a fresh breeze with clear sharp weather. Employed Tayloring, making firesteels, cleaning fouling pieces, making gun Cartridges, cutting firewood &c."

Dec. 15
" Wind West moderate. at times drizzling snow. - Employed hunting Partridges and cutting firewood. - Partridges are so very scarce about the House that from five men this day that was hunting only 3 was killed by them all, being all they saw, and foxes the fewest to be seen that has ever been known notwithstanding I have from the 17th November 17 Guns set and not one fox has as yet been caught."

Dec. 16
" Mild cloudy weather, wind variable - Men employed at various necefsary Jobs."

Dec. 17
" Thick snowy weather all this day. - Wind East - Brewed small Beer and cut firewood."

Dec. 18
" Mild cloudy weather, wind variable in the Southern and Eastern quarter. People opened a Water hole in the River ice, took out the Provisions and put more in to freshen, also sledged some Snow from out the yard. - Pepowaten Hunters came home with their bedding &c. according to order as did the fishermen from Beaver Creek. the former brought 50 Partridges the latter 46 fine trout."

Dec. 19
" Pleasant clear weather. Armourer, Carpenter, and Taylor employed in their respective branches. The others guning Partridges killed a 11."

Dec. 20
" Pleasant weather as yesterday with a little snow at times. - One man sick."

Dec. 21 Monday
" A Smart breeze at WNW with clear sharp weather - Employed guning Partridges and Brewing small Beer."

Dec. 22
" Weather and Wind much the same as yesterday. Empl'd at various Jobs."

Dec. 23
" Mild cloudy weather, wind variable. Employed cutting firewood and sledging snow from out the yard."

Dec. 24
" Thick snowy weather all day and last night - People opened the Water hole and took out the Provisions - Clean'd their Cabbins, Guard Room &c."

Dec. 25
" Wind East a gentle breeze with cloudy weather. - In the forenoon Performed Divine Service. - The afternoon at innocent amusements."

Dec. 26
" Dull heavy weather. - Snowing at times - Men kept Holliday."

Dec. 27
" Pleasant warm weather, wind in the Eastern quarter. Read Prayers."

Dec. 28 Monday
" Wind as yesterday and snowing very thick - People cut firewood and ground some Oatmeal."

Dec. 29
" Warm cloudy weather, wind variable. People employed guning Partridges, killed 27."

Dec. 30
" Wind and weather as yesterday. - Men employed making a track for hauling the Timber pieces and firewood which was scatered by the Deludge from off the plantation, through the Woods round the the House, the 24th May."

Dec. 31
" Pleasant clear weather. Employed hauling the timber pieces as yesterday mentioned on the plantation. - In the evening rung out the old year according to custom."

Jan. 1 1790
" A continuance of the pleasantest weather I have ever seen at this season of the year. - In the morning the People saluted the House and rang in the new year as usual. the remainder of the day enjoyed themselves at innocent pastime out Doors."

Jan. 2
" Thick rhimy weather wind WNW a moderate breeze. Men cut firewood and cleand the yard."

Jan. 3
" Sharp clear serene weather wind NW a gentle breeze. Read Prayers. - William Gouling sick."

Jan. 4 Monday
" Weather and wind as yesterday - Employed helving and grinding hatchets; Repairing hunting guns; Tayloring and sharpening the Crofs-cut saws. also cut firewood. This day is the coldest that has been this Winter, for the people that was employed out doors not one of them escaped from being froze either on their face or hands. Wm Gouling as yesterday."

Jan. 5
" Weather as yesterday. - Fitted out 11 Men to go to the Woods to haul out our next Winters firewood to the bank edge ready for rafting next Summer. also 3 Men for Pepowaten River to hunt Partridges - William Gouling much better."

Jan. 6
" Wind West with drizzling snow all day - Early in the morning sent 11 Men to the Woods to haul out firewood to the Bank edge and 3 Men to Pepowaten River to hunt Partridges. Remaining at the house Mr Moore, William Dean, Tho. Flett and James Halcro."

Jan. 7
"Pleasant warm snowing weather. Taylor making trading cloaths. Myself and Mr Moore hunting Partridges no Luck. Mr Dean Cooking and attending the Cattle and James Halcro overhauling the set guns. caught a White Fox."

Jan. 8
" Mild agreable weather, wind variable. The few men that remains at the House employed at necefsary Jobs. Carp. came from the Woods for necefsaries to repair the Big sledge which was broke this morning."

Jan.9
" Clear sharp weather, wind West and NW blowing fresh. Employed cutting firewood. - Carpenter returned to his tent."

Jan. 10
" Wind and weather as yesterday."

Jan. 11 Monday
" Wind North blowing fresh with a low drift. Taylor empl'd for trade. Myself and the other two men at various Jobs."

Jan. 12
" Very sharp cold weather, wind West, blowing fresh with a low drift. - Taylor employed for trade - The remaining two men cut firewood."

Jan. 13
" Do."

Jan. 14
" Do."

Jan. 15
" The weather much more milder than for some days past. Wind WSW moderate, and cloudy weather towards noon. - Wooders came for Provisions and two of the hunters for the same brought 100 Partridges."

Jan. 16
" Very thick drifting weather. wind NW. Wooders and Hunters detained by bad weather. - Cut firewood."

Jan. 17
" Wind as yesterday, but the weather more moderate. - Wooders and Hunters returned to their tents."

Jan. 18 Monday
" Clear serene sharp weather. - Mr Moore sick - Myself and the two others cut firewood."

Jan. 19
" A fresh breeze of wind at West, with clear weather. Taylor at work for trade, Mr Moore as yesterday. - and one man went round the set guns - no Luck."

Jan. 20
" Mild clear pleasant weather. Employed at necefsary Jobs. - Mr Moore much better."

Jan. 21
" Wind West and NW blowing fresh and very sharp clear weather. - Employed cutting firewood."

Jan. 22
" Wind weather and Employment the same as yesterday. Wooders came for Provisions. The inform me this last Week has been so cold that not one of them escaped from being froze, either on the face or hands."

Jan. 23
" Weather something milder than the two preceeding days. Taylor employed for trade, Myself with the other two men that rem'd at the house hunting Partridges. Wooders returned to their tent, and one man came from Pepowaten hunting tent with 100 Partridges - An old Indian man which has been fishing up the River for some time past came to the House with his helplefs family to be supported, as no fish is to be got in the Creeks near the House."

Jan 24
" Pleasant agreable weather. wind variable."

Jan. 25 Monday
" Mild cloudy weather, wind NW and WSW gentle breezes. 11 Men at the Woods hauling out firewood to the bank edge ready for rafting in the Summer, also procuring timber pieces for sundry factory use. - 3 Men at Pepowaten River hunting Partridges, and the four that remains at the house including myself and Servant at various employments, such as Writing, Tayloring, hunting Partridges cutting firewood &c."

Jan. 26
" Thick drifting weather, wind NNW - Men at the House cut firewood."

Jan. 27
" Sharp clear weather.Employment as yesterday."

Jan. 28
" Do."

Jan. 29
" A continuance of very sharp weather. Wooders came for Provisions, as did the Hunters from Pepowaten Riv. with 80 Partridges. - Caught a Red Fox at our Set guns, the first that has been killed since they were put down the 17th Novermber."

Jan. 30
" The weather still continues very sharp, Wind West. - Wooders and Hunters returned to their tents."

Jan. 31
" Cloudy weather wind variable. Beaky Goudie came from the Woods being ailing for some days past."

Feb. 1 1790 Monday
" Wind WSW a moderate breeze with clear weather - Beaky Goudie sick. Myself with the other three men which remains at the House employed at various duties."

Feb. 2
" Sharp clear weather, Wind variable from West to NE. Gun'd a few Partridges and Cut firewood - Beaky Goudie much better and does little Jobs."

Feb. 3
" Cloudy weather wind South. Employed as yesterday."

Feb. 4
" Mild pleasant weather, wind in the Eastern quarter. - Taylor employed for trade. Beaky Goudie making Awls for do. The others cut firewood and examined the set guns."

Feb. 5
" Wind NW a fresh breeze, hazy weather all day. Employed as before. Mr Moore sick. Wooders came for Provisions."

Feb. 6
" Wind variable cloudy weather. Employed at various Jobs. Wooders returned to their tent, and one man came from Pepowaten with 80 Partridges. informs me they are very scarce at that quarter, and about the House there is few or none to be seen. Mr Moore sick and much troubled in mind, obliged to attend him constantly."

Feb. 7
" Thick hazy weather until noon then clear, wind NW. Mr Moore as yesterday, and at times very much out of his mind."

Feb. 8 Monday
" Wind WbS a fresh breeze with clear weather. Employed cutting firewood and attending Mr Moore which is worse than he was yesterday. - Pepowaten hunter returned to his tent. - A very aged Woman died on the Plantation this morng."

Feb. 9
" Pleasant weather, wind as yesterday. Six of the Wooders came home with their bedding according to order having finished hauling out the next Winters firewood to the Bank, and procured 220 pieces of Timber to be squared, and a few to be sawn into boards for house use. - Four men are now left up at the Woods to be employed on that duty. - Mr Moore as yesterday - One of our Cows calfed a fine Cow Calf."

Feb. 10
" Wind variable with a thick Rhime all day - People cleaned their Cabbins, cut firewood and prepared for Brewing small Beer. Mr Moore something easier in mind than he has been for some days past."

Feb. 11
" Wind West a strong gale with thick drifting weather. Beaky Goudie making scrapers - Taylor at work for trade. The others brewed small Beer. Mr Moore pretty well recover'd from his late sicknefs."

Feb. 12
" Pleasant mild weather, wind variable - People employed hunt'g Partridges 32 to day."

Feb. 13
" Thick snowy weather all day wind East. - People cut firewood and filled the Hay loft with hay. - Received 80 Partridges from our Hunters at Pepowaten. - The four men which were left at the Woods to square timber pieces and saw boards, plank, &c came home for Provisions and necefsaries and returned again."

Feb. 14
" Mild cloudy weather wind variable. - Performed Divine Service."

Feb. 15 Monday
" Wind EbS a gentle breeze with thick snowy weather. Armourer and Taylor employed in their respective trades, the others hunting Partridges 33 to day."

Feb. 16
" Clear pleasant warm weather, and for the first time this season thawed a little in the middle of the day. Employment as yesterday."

Feb. 17
" A continuance of fine mild pleasant thawing weather. - Employment as before. 95 Partridges to day."

Feb. 18
" Weather part clear, part cloudy, wind South. Men employed cleaning the yard, cutting firewood, and grind'g Oatmeal."

Feb. 19
" Mild pleasant weather. - Employed guning Partridges 37 to day and one Red fox from our set guns."

Feb. 20
" Wind East, with thick snowy weather. Men employed at various Jobs. - The three men which were hunting at Pepowaten River came home with their tent and bedding as no Partridges was to be got near that place. - An Indian Child died this morning on the plantation after a lingering illnefs."

Feb. 21
" Calm pleasant weather. In the middle of the day a little thaw. Performed Divine Service."

Feb. 22 Monday
" Wind variable light breezes with cloudy weather. Armourer repairing fouling pieces. - Taylor employed for trade, the others that is at the House guning Partridges. 45 to day."

Feb. 23
" Pleasant weather wind SSE Armourer repairing a Musquet. - Taylor employed for two of the Englishmen which is going with a Packet to York Factory. the others hunting Partridges, no luck this day. - Mr Moore very ill with the Country distemper."

Feb. 24
" Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. Early this morning dispatched Beaky Goudie, John Wood and an Indian Lad with a Packet to York Factory. John Wood is to stay there in lieu of William Dean who came in the Sloop last fall. Armourer and Taylor employed in their respective duties. four men at the Woods squaring timber and sawing plank for the house use. the others brewed small beer."

" A Copy of a Letter to Mr William Jefferson Chief at Churchill Factory dated 22nd February 1790"

" Dear Sir
By a Packet of this date to York Factory I do myself the pleasure of enquiring after your health and all those under your command at Churchill and at the same time to acquaint you that all here are well.
The Sloop had a pleasing and short pafsage from York Factory last fall, being only three days from her sailing to this place.
Our fall Goose hunt but very poor owing to my having no hunters to attend, excepting one old Indian man and his family. - The Chief part of my Homeguards are quite averse to hunting either Spring or fall, taking delight in nothing but visiting from place to place, and if they were not encouraged would not so often attempt it without my being acquainted. Partridges before Christmafs very scarce, since I have been enabled to serve out 2 days pr Week. Fish both Trout and Tickomeg plenty, the latter I caught with the Sein net in the fall upwards of two Ton, and was happy enough to get them froze, which has enabled me greatly to Spin out the liitle stock of English provisions annually sent here as long as pofsible and at the same time to support 28 poor helplefs Natives which has no other dependance but what they get from the house.
Trade as yet but very small about 500 MBeaver traded since the close of the accounts last July, and by the Indians information last fall expect it will not be worse than last year. -
Our Winter has so far been remarkably mild, with very little Snow, and until the begining of January, one might have walked any where without Snow shoes. where the Snow was not drifted. Our River ice set fast the 1st November. - Having nothing material further to add but my good wishes for your health and happinefs and a good trade I remain
Dear Sir
Your Obedient Humble Servant
John Ballanden."

" A Copy of a Letter to Mr Joseph Colen Resident at York Factory Dated 22nd February 1790."

" Dear Sir
In lieu of William Dean who came in the Sloop last year I now send you John Wood, a sober honest Servant; Beaky Goudie and an Indian Lad accompany him, as does Mr Moore at his own request having a great desire to view the Coast from hence to your place, by the return of whom I hope for and sincerely wish good accounts from you and our fellow Servants at Churchill. Thank God all at Severn are in good health.
The Sloop had a fine pafsage hither last fall, arrived the 12th September. Our Winter so far has been remarkably mild with very little Snow, and until the begining of January one might have walked any where without Snow Shoes where the Snow was not drifted.
I have got about 500 MBeaver in Sundries. Foxes the scarcest I have ever known, only one has been caught at the House this season. Partridges very few about us. No Rabbets, and had it not been for being succefsful with the Sein net, and freezing better than two ton of fish I don't know what we should have done, especially as we had but few Geese killed in the fall, only one old Indian man with his Sons attended, there being no more of my hunters at the house.
Wishing you health and every other happinefs, plentyful seasons of Provisions with a good trade in due time. I remain Dear Sir
Your Obedient Humble Servant
John Ballanden
My Compliments to the
Gentlemen of your Mefs.
Enclosed is a List of my Indian Debtors.
Since my writing the above I am sorry to inform you Mr Moore hath been taken very ill with the Country disorder which he is much subject to, being afraid of a relapse does not undertake the Journey."

Feb. 25
" Thick snowy weather until noon, then clear and turning very sharp wind NNW blowing hard - People employed indoors at necefsary Jobs. Mr Moore at present in his usual good state of health."

Feb. 26
" Friday wind West and NW a fresh breeze with a low drift at times. Men employed cutting firewood and cleaning the yard &c."

Feb. 27
" Mild cloudy weather. wind variable. Employed at necefsary Jobs."

Feb. 28
" Clear pleasant weather. wind as yesterday. Read Prayers."

Mar. 1 1790 Monday
" Thick hazy weather wind West a fresh breeze. Men Empl'd guning Partridges and cutting firewood. - This morning an Indian Child died on the plantation."

Mar. 2
" Pleasant thawing weather, wind South. Employed brew'g small Beer and cutting firewood. also overhauld the set guns caught a White Fox."

Mar. 3
" Thick snowy weather. Men employed a hunting Partridges no Luck, only killed 5 which was all they saw this day."

Mar. 4
" A Strong gale of wind at NW with thick snow and drift. Men employed putting Provisions in the River to freshen, and by an exact measure, find the River ice four feet ten inches thick abreast the house."

Mar. 5
" Wind as yesterday but more moderate. - clear weather. Men emp'd a hunting Partridges. very few to be seen. - only killed 11 this day. Two of the men which is employed at the Woods squaring timber came to the House for Provisions. Wm Gouling who was on the same duty also came home having scalded himself by accident very much."

Mar. 6
" Mild pleasant weather. wind variable. People cut firewood, and clean'd the yard. The two men which came for Provisions returned to their tent. - Wm Gouling scarce able to walk. One Red fox from our set guns."

Mar. 7
" Pleasant weather as yesterday. - Read Prayers."

Mar. 8 Monday
" Wind WNW a fresh breeze with thick rhimy weather. Arm'r stocking a hunting gun. Taylor at work for trade. the others hunting Partridges, killed 15 and caught one White Fox at the set guns."

Mar. 9
" Thick snowy weather until near noon, wind EbN. then clear and very sharp with the wind at NW blowing fresh. Brewed small Beer. William Gouling still unable to do duty, and Mr Moore bad with the Country disorder."

Mar. 10
" Clear sharp weather, wind NW with a fresh breeze. Arm'r and Taylor as Monday. - the others cut firewood. Mr Moore much better. - William Gouling as before."

Mar. 11
" Mild pleasant weather, wind variable. Sent four men to Pepowaten to hunt Partridges, as none is to be got near the house. - William Gouling on the mending hand. - Three at the Woods squaring timber and sawing boards. those at the house employed grinding Oatmeal Tayloring stocking a hunting gun and cutting firewood."

Mar. 12
" Wind West a moderate breeze with cloudy weather. Emp'd opening the Water-hole taking out Provisions and putting more in to freshen - One of the Wooders came for victuals."

Mar. 13
" Wind NW a fresh breeze with clear sharp weather. The man that came from the woods returned to his tent with a fortnights provisons. - Employed at the House at various Jobs. - William Gouling who had the misfortune to scald his Legs at the Woods is now able to walk about and does some small Jobs."

Mar. 14
" Clear pleasant weather wind variable."

Mar. 15 Monday
" Wind WNW a moderate breeze with cloudy weather. - Employed as follows. Three men at the Woods squaring timber and sawing plank. - Four do. at Pepowaten guning Partridges. At the House Armourer stocking a hunting gun. Taylor for trade, the others grinding Oatmeal and cutting firewood."

Mar. 16
" Mild cloudy weather wind variable. Men employed as yesterday."

Mar. 17
" Thick hazy weather wind NW and NNE moderate breezes. Employed brewing small Beer and cutting firewood."

Mar. 18
" Wind in the Eastern quarter. Cloudy weather. Employed guning Partridges and overhauled the set guns. Caught 2 White foxes. no luck of Partridges."

Mar. 19
" Pleasant clear weather wind variable. Employed at various Jobs. Received 100 Partridges from one of our Pepowaten hunters."

Mar. 20
" Mild cloudy weather wind N a moderate breeze. Hunters of yesterday returned to his tent. - Thomas Catley came from the Woods for necefsaries. Men at the House cut firewood and cleaned their Cabbins Yard &c."

Mar. 21
" Pleasant clear weather, wind nearly as yesterday. Armourer very ill with the Country distemper."

Mar. 22 Monday
" Thick drifting weather wind NW blowing very hard at times. Armourer as yesterday very ill & George Foreman came home from Pepowaten being also ailing. James Sutherland accompanied him. People at the house that is well at various employments."

Mar. 23
" Wind West a moderate breeze with clear weather. Armourer something better than yesterday but Geo. Foreman very ill. James Sutherland returned to his tent at Pepowaten. The others cut firewood and attended the sick."

Mar. 24
" Mild cloudy weather, wind in the Eastern quarter. Armourer stocking a hunting gun. Taylor making trading Clothes. Geo. Foreman on the mending hand. - The others at necefsary Jobs. Early this morning I visited the Wooders, in the evening returned."

Mar. 25
" The first and middle parts of this day snowing very thick wind SSE the latter part drifting very severe, wind NNW blowing hard. sent two men to afsist the Wooders in collecting a few timber pieces together which is too heavy for the three men that is there. They have my orders to come home with their tent and bedding as soon as finished. Mr Moore sick."

Mar. 26
" Moderate weather wind W Employed at necefsary Jobs. At noon Beaky Goudie and the Indian Lad whom I sent with the Packet to York Factory on the 24th Ult. returned with Letters for the Bay Settlements and the following for this place."

" To Mr John Ballanden Master at Severn House 12th March"

" Dear Sir
On the 7th Instant your Packetmen arrived safe and deliver'd your Letter of the 22nd Ult. To speak of the weather our seasons correspond with yours, but our scarcity exceeds, which having continued nearly three years, I begin almost to despair of ever seeing plenty again at York.
Mefs. Sutherland, Cook and Bird with 12 Men were at 5 different hunting tents before Christmafs, the greater part did not procure sufficient provisions to support themselves (the scarcity of game has been so great) Mr Sutherland and party at Pennycutway River, were fortunate in killing a Large number of Methy fish and James Bird and party at French Creek were succefsful in angling a few Trout which proved a great help. I engaged three good Indians to hunt for us during the winter season, besides Englishmen from the Factory, yet with all exertions scarcely enabled me to serve out more than one day pr Week, fresh provisions. - No stock in Warehouse at Shiptime, The quantity of English meat allowed considering the number of men is too small, having fifty seven to feed dayly, are circumstances which cause me much uneasinefs. - At a nice? overhaul at Christmafs found not sufficient to last out March, this obliged me to begin the new year with short allowance, since which many of my poor fellows, have not eat more than one day annimal food, and none exceeded four pr Week. their Chief living has been on flour, Oatmeal &c. - I have now a Tent acrofs the River Nelson, and Indians go far to the Northward, where they have been more succefsful in killing Partridges, so that I hope to rub? thro' this season without experiencing the distrefses of last. The few Birds that has been killed have been very expensive to the Honourable Company. -
The precautions taken to prevent the dreadful malady that afflicted us last year, has been through the goodnefs of God, succefsful, only two have symtoms of that disorder at present brought on by inactivity. - I sincerly hope no interbefstion? in our buildings. - The fall was favorable, it enabled me to do much towards it, and by Shiptime I expect to cut a figure tho' one great hinderance is am obliged to send so far as Steel River, fifty miles distance to cut timber, which has been found scattered in small quantities, attended with great Labour to get to the banks edge for rafting.
No North or Musqua Rat Tiver Indians visited York in the fall, therefore had no opportunity of sending Mr Cook to reside amongst them as intended. Am apprehensive the Canadians are near us, not one Native has been in this Winter as usual except Homeguards, and two of yours who came to beg provisions but brought no furs.
This trade will severely feel the want of tobacco Brazil and am afraid many good Indians will fly to the Peddlars for this valuable article with the produce of their hunt. - The Inland Settlements will equally suffer. Much of our Cargo is damaged by the Sea Water. 1 Case particularly containing small articles (Such as Needles, Looking Glafses Tobacco boxes, Steel Collars, &c &c.) being stowed on deck, exposed to all weather. List of Indian debtors and defficiency of York Cargo is sent enclosed.
Am sorry to hear bad state of health prevented Mr Moore paying York a visit, and hope 'ere this he is recovered. My Mefsmates Join me in Compliments to you and yours. Wishing you good trade and plentiful supplies with every happinefs I remain
Dear Sir
Your Obedient Serv't
Jos. Colen.
P.S. - Our pieces of Beef are so small and part bad, together with the great scarcity of Country provisions, that it is with difficulty I keep the men in order, and get work executed, which if it continues shall be apprehensive of a mutiny. One or two men have shown evident signs of a great disorderly conduct.
J.C."

Mar. 27
" Thick snowy weather wind WSW and East. moderate breezes. Men cut firewood clean'd the yard &c. - Received 80 Partridges from Pepowaten hunters."

Mar. 28
" Mild pleasant weather, wind variable. Hunters of yesterday from Pepowaten returned to their tent."

Mar. 29 Monday
" Pleasant weather wind NW and N. Armourer stocking a fowling piece. Taylor making trading Cloths, the others brewing small Beer and carrying in within the Stockheads the timber pieces which was laying on the plantation to be squared, and some of them to be sawn into boards plank &c."

Mar. 30
" Wind variable clear pleasant weather. Armourer and Taylor as yesterday. the others at necefsary Jobs."

Mar. 31
" Wind West a gentle breeze with clear fine weather. Men employed as yesterday."

Apr. 1 1790
" Thick rhimy weather most part of the day. Wind ESE. Men at necefsary duty."

Apr. 2
" Clear pleasant thawing weather, wind South. Employment the same as before. Received 100 Partridges from Pepowaten hunters."

Apr. 3
" Saturday a continuance of pleasant weather, wind variable. Men cut firewood and cleand the yard &c. Pepowaten hunters returned to their tent."

Apr. 4
" Wind variable in the Eastern quarter, light breezes. Performed Divine Service as appointed for the day. Beaky Goudie sick."

Apr. 5 Monday
" A Strong gale at NW and W with snow and drift. Employed indoors at necefsary Jobs. Beaky Goudie very ill."

Apr. 6
" The weather much more moderate than yesterday. Men employed squaring timber pieces, Repairing Casks, Tayloring for trade, and stocking a hunting gun. Beakie Goudie as before."

Apr. 7
" Pleasant clear warm weather. - Wind variable. Men employ'd nearly as yesterday, and brewing small Beer. - Beaky Goudie much the same, complaining much of a severe head-ach."

Apr. 8
" Weather as yesterday wind EbS a moderate breeze. Men employed at various Jobs. Received 150 Pike fish from Home Invalids, which is fishing at some distance from the House up the River. - Beaky Goudie much better."

Apr. 9
" Mild cloudy weather, wind NNE. Men employed as yesterday. Pepowaten hunters came home with their Tent and bedding as the Partridges are all gone off from where they have been a tenting."

Apr. 10
" Wind East a gentle breeze with snowy weather at times. - Men employed sawing boards, Plank &c. squaring timber pieces, Taylor for trade and cutting firewood."

Apr. 11
" Sunday Mild cloudy weather, wind N and NW performed Divine Service. - This day one of our Cows calfed a fine Cow Calf."

Apr. 12 Monday
" Pleasant warm weather. Men employed in the morning falling firewood at the hill, the afternoon prepared necefsaries for sending to the Goose tent acrofs the River."

Apr. 13
" A continuance of very warm thawing weather. Sent the People acrofs the River with Empty Casks, Salt, Ammuntion &c for the Goose tent."

Apr. 14
" Wind ESE a moderate breeze with a constant rain all day being the first this Spring. Men employed at various Jobs indoors."

Apr. 15
" Calm pleasant thawing weather, very little Snow within the works of the Factory. Sent the people down to the Sloop with empty Casks, Salt, Ammunition &c in readinefs for the Goose tent, also to cut a trench round the Sloop for the water to have a free pafsage round her. - A great run of water at present along the sides of the River. One old Indian man and his family came in paid his debt in parcht Beaver, not one Martin did I receive from him. - He brought 150 lb dried meat which I immediately traded."

Apr. 16
" Pleasant clear weather, wind EbN a moderate breeze. - Men employed repairing the Deer hedge. the Indian man which came yesterday informs me he saw many Deer within two days walk of the house."

Apr. 17
" Saturday wind weather and Employment as yesterday. - The Plantation and within our Stockheads quite clear of snow."

Apr. 18
" Thick foggy weather, wind variable. Read Prayers."

Apr. 19 Monday
" Wind NW a fresh breeze with snowy showers at times. Carpenter caulking Mr Moore's Cabbin. One man brewing small Beer. - the others cut firewood for the Sloop and overhauld the Deer hedge. no Luck."

Apr. 20
" Wind and Weather as yesterday. - Carpenter squaring Logs. Armourer cleaning trading guns. the others cutting the Brush? and clearing it from off the hill in order for a plantation should your Honours think proper to have the house rebuilt."

Apr. 21
" Clear pleasant weather all day. Men employed at various Jobs."

Apr. 22
" Wind N a strong gale with snowy showers at times. William Gouling all this day so very bad and restlefs that it employs two men alternately to attend him. - At his intervals of senses he informed me that he has been turned out of St Thomas Hospital as a person incurable for the same, and also that he has a discharge from serving his Majesty in a Ship of Was as a very unfit person. Will. Cromartie very ill with the Country desorder."

Apr. 23
" Friday cold cloudy weather wind NW blowing fresh. In the morning men employed at necefsary Jobs. - the afternoon they exercised small arms in honour of the day. - One Indian man and his family came in paid 40 Beaver in debt, not a skin over. he has been very unsuccefsful in procuring furs thro' the course of the winter, and informs me that until the begining of last moon he was always in a starving condition, when then he fell in with plenty of Deer. I now traded from him 217 lb half dried meat and 20 lb fat. William Gouling a little better and William Cromartie at duty."

Apr. 24
" Thick snowy weather all day. wind North. Men employed at necefsary duty. - William Gouling still continues but sickly."

Apr. 25
" Clear pleasant weather, wind variable. Performed Divine Service. William Gouling as yesterday."

Apr. 26 Monday
" Wind West a gentle breeze with clear warm weather. Carp. squaring timber pieces. Armourer stocking a hunting gun. Taylor making trading Cloths. the other clearing and falling the Scrubs of wood on the Hill intended for a plantation. William Gouling much better to day than for some days past."

Apr. 27
" Mild cloudy weather wind North. Men employed as yesterday. - One Indian man and his family came in middling well gooded in Beaver, but no Martins he also brought 250 lb dried meat and 25 lb fat which I immediately traded from him."

Apr. 28
" Wednesday Cold clear weather, wind NW blowing hard at times. Men employed Tayloring, Stocking a hunting gun, cleaning trading guns, squaring timber pieces, sawing boards, and in the evening brought the Boats within the Stockheads for the Carpenter to begin repairing them in fine weather."

Apr. 29
" Wind Weather and employment nearly the same as yester'y."

Apr. 30
" Mild clear weather wind variable. Men employed shifting the Powder and cleaning the Magazine &c."

May 1 1790
" Clear pleasant weather wind North and West, light breezes. Men employed cleaning the Rope shed and drying the Sloops Sails &c."

May 2
" A fresh breeze of wind at NW cloudy weather. Performed Divine Service. - Late in the evening two of our Homeguards (Indians) came in with their families paid a part of their debt, they inform me that they have been ailing a great part of the winter, which is the reason of their not being able to pay their Debt in full."

May 3 Monday
" Wind variable clear weather. Armourer cleaning trading guns. Taylor making trading clothes. Carpenter repairing the Boats. Two men sawing Plank, the others brewing small Beer and doing other Jobs. - 6 of our Homeguard Indian men with their families and 3 of Albany and theirs came in very poorly gooded. the former not able to pay much above half their debt contracted last fall, the latter paid 41 Beaver in Sundries of debt belonging to Albany, and traded about 30 More for necefsaries which was all they had."

May 4
" Tuesday wind NNW a fresh breeze with cold raw dissagreeable weather. - Employed at various Jobs. Traded 270 lb dried meat from the Indians that came yesterday. Saw 3 deer crofsing the River above the house, Indians went in pursuit of them but had no succefs."

May 5
" Wind and weather as yesterday. - Men employed repairing the Sloops sails, Boat, sawing Plank, cleaning hunting and trading guns and one man went round the Deer hedge no Luck. - Saw one Grey Goose flying down the River for the first time this Spring."

May 6
" A continuance of Wind and weather and employment nearly the same as yesterday - Gave the Indians their Goose hunting treat of Brandy and fitted them out with Guns, a little Ammunition &c to attend the hunt this Spring. Saw 4 Deer crofsing the River. Indians went after them but had no succefs."

May 7
" Pleasant clear weather, wind variable in the Eastern and Southern quarters. Men employed at necefsary Jobs. Most of the Homeguard Indians pitched off the plantation to attend the Goose hunt acrofs the River. Rec'd one Goose from an Indian the first this Spring."

May 8
" Wind EbS a gentle breeze with drizzling rain all day. - Men employed brewing small Beer cleaning the yard and turning over the Wood pile to replace it in another place."

May 9
" Heavy rain most part of the day, wind variable. In the evening sent Mr Whitford and two men to attend the Goose tent acrofs the River in serving ammunition &c to the Indians. Received 7 Geese this day."

May 10 Monday
" Wind SSE a moderate breeze with very warm weather. - Early in the morning sent Mr Moore and two men down to the Sloop to attend her against the breaking up of the River ice, and to serve ammunition &c to the Indians that is to hunt this Spring on this side the River. Received 10 Geese from Indian hunters acrofs the River. - Tho. Catley sick. Carp., Armourer and Taylor employed in their respective branches, the others with myself cleaning the Warehouse Offices &c."

May 11
" The first and middle parts of this day very warm clear weather, the latter heavy rain, thunder and Lightening. Men employed at necefsary Jobs. Received 3 Geese from Ind. Tho. Catley as yesterday very ill. - Ind. all pitched off the plantation to attend the hunt, excepting one old Lame man five Widows and seven orphan Children."

May 12
" Wind SSW a fresh breeze with clear weather - Carpenter repairing the Boats. - Armourer cleaning trading guns - Tho. Catley doing some sml Jobs in the Joiner way. - The others at various Jobs. Received 13 Geese and one small Doe Deer from Indians acrofs the River - River ice broke up in many places above the house and a great run of water along shore. - Very few Geese to be seen flying near the house."

May 13
" Wind W and ESE very squally at times, cloudy weather. Men employed at necefsary duty. Received 4 Geese from Ind. Boys that is hunting near the house."

May 14
" Wind East and ENE blowing fresh, clear weather, until noon then very thick fogg - Men employed at various Jobs."

May 15
" Saturday wind nearly the same as yesterday, cloudy weather. Early in the morning the River ice began breaking up abreast the House, went very mildly down and stopt about half a mile below the point of Woods. - Men employed attending the Boats, firewood, Timber pieces &c on the plantation, also clean'd the yard. - Indians on this side the River came for Oatmeal Pease &c for themselves and for bread to Mr Moore and his party at the Goose tent with what Provisions I can spare him: he informs me by a Letter that he has as yet only received two Geese from the Indians and that very few is to be seen in the? Marsh."

May 16
" Wind North a fresh breeze part clear, part cloudy. River ice fast as yesterday mentioned. - clear water abreast the house."

May 17 Monday
" Pleasant warm weather, wind SSW Employed repairing the boats. cleaning trading guns. plaistering the house and brought a sick Indian from the Marsh in the Canoe. - River ice as far down as the point of Marsh beacon. Received 20 Trout from Indian boys. the first I have received this Spring. No Geese flying."

May 18
" Mild cloudy weather, wind as yesterday. Men empl'd cleaning and painting the boats, digging the Gardens and doing other necefsary duty."

May 19
" Calm pleasant weather - Men employed much the same as yesterday - Received a few Ducks from Indian Boys."

May 20
" Wind North and NW fresh breezes at times with snowy showers. - Men employed at various Jobs. In the evening sent the sick Indian mentioned on Monday acrofs the River at his own request. there to be attended by his relations which is hunting Geese. - Very few to be seen and not one White Goose has as yet been seen on the coast."

May 21
" Wind NW blowing fresh all day. - Caught four small Doe Deer in the hedge - Men employed in bringing them home. At present these is hardly a Weeks provisions in the house for ll hands, after putting by 20 pieces pork and 20 Beef for the Sloops Voyage to York Factory as usual."

May 22
" Wind and weather much the same as yesterday - Men employed cleaning the yard, their Cabbins &c. - Received one Goose and 20 Ducks from an Indian man which is hunting on this side the River, there being no more of my Hunters belonging to this side except the sick Indian above mentioned come in this Spring, and by repeated accounts are gone to York Factory, as there reception at that place last Summer was very agreeable to them."

May 23
" Wind North a fresh breeze with snowy showers. Mr Moore and one man came up from the Marsh dined and returned. This day saw many White Geese flying towards our Marshes. the first seen here this Spring."

May 24 Monday
" Mild cloudy weather, wind NNW a moderate breeze. Men employed repairing the inner stockheads, fishing, hunting and attending the Deer hedge. - Received 5 Geese and 40 Trout fish to day."

May 25
" Wind and weather much the same as yesterday. - Armourer cleaning trading guns. - Carpenter repairing an old Wainsoot? Canoe - the others as before."

May 26
" Wind variable clear pleasant weather. - Men employed sowing the Garden's and brewing small Beer. - Poplar and Willows in Bud and young grafs growing within our works. - Received 31 Geese from Indians acrofs the River, by which I hear that the sick Indian that was so desirous to get acrofs the River on Thursday is sice? dead leaving a Wife and two or three small Children. His death will be much regreted both by English and Indians for some time being an excellent hunter for furs and provisions. The number of hunters I have now to depend upon is only 5 and it is with great perswation I can keep them to attend the Spring and fall hunt."

May 27
" Calm clear pleasant weather. - Men employed at various duties.The three Albany Indians which has been staying at the Goose tent with our Homeguards, came acrofs the River, paid them for what Geese they have killed this Spring for the house, and credited them a small debt to go away to their own place. - Nine Canoes of Wenescaw River Indians arrived wretchedly gooded. their Canoes were chiefly loaded with Women and Children."

May 28
" Wind NW and NNE gentle breezes with clear weather. Mr Moore and his partners came up from the Sloop, he informs me the tides rises so very little that the Sloop has not as yet floated in the Creek. - The Indian man and Boys which has been hunting Geese on this side the River also came to the house the Geese being gone all off the coast. they have killed 117 - Mr Whitford and his partners with the Indians that has been hunting on the south side likewise came home having killed 347 Geese. - Men employed in bringing them acrofs the River."

May 29
" Wind NNE a fresh breeze with snowy showers. Men employed at various Jobs. - Myself trading with the Wenescaw Indians and paid of the Goose hunters for hunting."

May 30
" Wind and weather as yesterday. - Sent Mr Moore and Sailors down to the Sloop to endeavour to get her afloat, in the evening he returned having hauled the Sloop to the Creeks mouth. At present very little water in the River and many more shoals than usual has made their appearance this Summer."

May 31 Monday
" Wind NNW a strong gale at times with cloudy weather and Snow at times. - Armourer cleaning trading guns, Taylor at work for one of the men. - Carpenter making boats masts. - Sent 6 men in 2 Boats up the River this with rafting ropes in order to raft over next Winters firewood, the evening they returned and informed me that the water is so shoal that it was with difficulty they could get the boats up to the proper place. - Caught one Deer in the hedge. - Wenescaw River Indians went away this morn'g."

June 1 1790
" Tuesday moderate clear weather, wind variable. Men employ'd at necefsary duty. 6 Canoes of Wenescaw River Indians arrived middling well gooded in beaver but no Martins. One Deer from the Hedge. - Dispatched two Indians with a Packet to Albany."

June 2
" Cloudy weather and at times snowy showers. Early this morning sent 9 men up the River to Raft firewood to the house. The others afsisting in the Warehouse trading with the Indians. two Canoes more arrived, scarce brought 50 MBeaver in both. they inform me that they were in at Glosterhouse in the middle of Winter and traded their prime furs."

June 3
" Wind ENE a fresh breeze, cloudy weather. - Employed with the natives and dispatched some of them away. Two Canoes arrived well gooded in Beaver. - Caught a Doe Deer in the hedge."

June 4
" Wind WbN a moderate breeze with cloudy weather. Trading Ind. all gone off the plantation. The few men that remains at the house from the Woods employed repairing the Slip where we generally carry our firewood up the bank. also cleand the inner yard &c."

June 5
" Pleasant warm weather in the afternoon, the forenoon snowy showers. wind variable. - Received 42 Geese from two of our Home Guard Indians acrofs the River."

June 6
" Wind NNW a strong gale with a continuance of snow all day."

" A Copy of a Letter to Mr Edward Jarvis Chief at Albany Fort. Dated 1st June 1790."

" Dear Sir
It is with pleasure I embrace the return of the usual season to enquire after your health and all those under your Command. and at the same time to forward for the Bay the Northern Letters, some of which I received in August last. - Thank God all at present here are in good health, and hope to hear the same blefsing attends you. - During the course of the Winter and Spring I had a severe lof by the death of several of my best Homeguard Ind. and now I have only five that is tollerable good hunters, that I can depend upon abiding by the house. Pots?, Monk and Son came in here in the Spring, brought very few furs. Monk paid 31 Beaver of your debt and Son 10. after which they had not above two or three more skins, notwithstanding they were deeply indebted here, they informed me that they had a great many skins of different kinds of furs laid up to pay their debts with, but the Quiquahatches had destroyed every one of them. I have again trusted them as pr List enclosed as they were entirely destitute of cloathing and ammunition. Shall be happy to hear that Richard Perkin arrived safe with you last fall and in good time.
I have had as yet but few Indians come down the River and them but poorly gooded. - The trade now at present in the house about 2000 made beaver. - As we had an uncommon early Summer it spoiled our Goose hunt only 475 killed during the season. Severn River broke up the 15th Ult. making no deludge, the River cleared of ice the following day, but so shoal that a Boat cannot crofs it, but at half tide. wishing you plentiful seasons for Provisions a good trade and every other felicity, I remain Dear Sir your most Obt. Humble Servt John Ballanden."

" A Copy of a Letter to Mr John Thomas Chief at Moose Fort Dated 1st June 1790."

" Dear Sir
I gladly embrace the opportunity of a Packet to Albany Fort to enquire after your health and all those under your command and hope to hear by the return of my Ind. that my good wishes are fulfilled. All at Severn thank God are healthy.
We had a poor hunt of Geese in the fall and the Spring also very indifferent. No Partridges or Rabbets in the Winter, but was succefsfull with fish, having caught with the Sein net in the fall upwards of two Ton Tickomeg which enabled me to serve out 2 days pr Week thro' the course of the Winter.
Trade as yet but small about 2000 made beaver in the house. I have had but few Indians come down the River and them but poorly gooded. I sincerly wish you succefs in trade with every other felicity and am
Dear Sir
Your Humble Servant
John Ballanden
Mr Moore Joins me in
Compliments to you and the
Gentlemen at your table."

" A Copy of a Letter to Mr Geo. Atkinson Master at East Main House Dated 1st June 1790."

" Dear Sir
By a Packet of this date to Albany Fort I glady embrace the opportunity of enquiring after the health of Mr Atkinson and the rest of my fellow Servants at Eastmain. Thank God all at Severn are in good health which felicity I hope to hear by the return of my Indians you enjoy. -
We have had but a very poor Winter for Country provisions. very few Geese killed in the fall. Partridges, Rabbets and Venison as scarce as I ever knew, and had it not been for being succefsful in fishing God knows what we should have done. The Summer came on so soon, fine and mild that it spoiled our hunt of Geese, only killed 475. The River ice broke up the 15th Ult. and the following day it was quite clear of ice, but so shoal in the River that a Boat cannot crofs, but at half tide.
The trade at present here, but very small amounting only to 2075 MBeaver and little expectations that it will come up to that of last year. I sincerly wish succefs to their Honours affairs in general and am
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient Humble Servt.
John Ballanden."

June 7 Monday
" Wind as yesterday, but much more moderate. Men employed fishing and hunting. - In the evening nine Canoes of Uplanders arrived well gooded in beaver. - They inform me that many of my Indians that was deeply in debt at this place died in the Winter, and several murdered thro' Jealousy by Indians belonging to other places."

June 8
" Cold cloudy weather, Wind North. Employed trading with theNatives. Received a few fish and Ducks from Indians."

June 9
" Clear warm weather wind ESE a moderate breeze. finished trading with the Natives and fitted them out ready for going away. - towards the evening 9 Canoes more arrived well gooded in Beaver and Otters."

June 10
" Wind Northerly a fresh gale with cloudy weather. Employed trading with the Indians that came yesterday. - 6 Canoes of half Homeguards arrived well gooded in Beaver and Otters but not one Marten amongst them."

June 11
" Wind variable fresh gales at times, with showers of rain. Employed as yesterday. Trading Indians that came on Monday went away."

June 12
" The first and middle parts of this day, fine clear weather, wind variable, the latter part wind NW blowing fresh with Rain, Sleet, and Snow, finished trading with the Natives and fitted them all out ready for going away. - The 9 men which I sent to the Woods to raft firewood the 2nd Instant returned having rafted 15 floats, but could not bring them down so very little water in the River."

June 13
" Sunday wind NW a strong gale with snowy weather all day. Sent most of the People again up the River to try to bring down the Rafts. in the evening they returned without being able, as there was too heavy a sea, and the wind strong against them. - Trading Indians detain'd by bad weather."

June 14 Monday
" Wind the same as yesterday, but more moderate. Men employed at various Jobs. - Indians went away."

June 15
" Calm clear pleasant weather. - Early this morning sent all the People up the River to endeavour to endeavour to get the Rafts down. at noon they returned with them."

June 16
" Wind Easterly a fresh breeze with cloudy weather. Sent all the able hands up the River to raft the remainder of our firewood. In the evening 8 Canoes of Naymacuseepee Indians arrived poorly gooded scarce able to pay their debt. they inform me that during most part of the Winter many of them was severly afflicted with sicknefs, which prevented them from procuring furs sufficient as usual to purchase them necefsaries."

June 17
" A Strong gale at NW with cloudy weather. Employed repairing the Slip and trading with the Indians. three Canoes more of Naymacuseepee Indians arrived very indifferently gooded."

June 18
" Wind the same as yesterday, but more moderate. Employed with the Natives, and doing triffling Jobs about the house."

June 19
" Saturday wind and weather variable. Employed as yesterday. The men whom I sent to the Woods on Wednesday returned with the remainder of our firewood."

June 20
" Pleasant calm weather. Fitted out the trading Natives ready for going away."

June 21 Monday
" A Strong gale at NNW cloudy weather. Men employed carrying firewood up the Bank. - Indians ready for going away and only wait for moderate weather."

June 22
" The wind much more moderate than yesterday. Trading Indians all gone off the Plantation. - Men employed as yesterday."

June 23
" A Smart breeze of wind NW cloudy cold weather. - In the morning several showers of Snow. Employed as yesterday and brewing small Beer."

June 24
" Wind, Weather and Employment as yesterday."

June 25
" Wind variable moderate breezes cloudy weather. Employed hauling the Sein net at proper places along shore, no Luck of fish only caught 5 Gwiniads."

June 26
" Wind North a strong gale with thick foggy weather. Men employed carrying firewood up the Bank. Four of our Home Natives came in with a few Deer skins, some dried meat and 10 Geese. Set a net near the point of Woods for fish."

June 27
" Wind and weather as yesterday. Two Indians came from the Eastward for a small supply of ammunition &c for themselves and families who is coming in soon with their Winter hunt which they left behind about 120 miles distant from the house. - Received 10 Deer from Indians up the River."

June 28 Monday
" The wind much more moderate than the 2 preceeding days, but still cold thick foggy weather. Men employed carrying firewood up the Bank. - Four Wenescaw Indians came in with a few Deer skins."

June 29
" Mild pleasant weather, wind variable. A few Musquetoes in the evening. - finished carrying up the Winters firewood on the Bank. - The two Indians which came from the Eastward for ammunition went away, as did those that came yesterday. - some more Wenescaw Indians came in brought a few Deer skins and a fine quantity of dried meat."

June 30
" Wind NE blowing fresh with hazy weather. - Men empl'd at various necefsary Jobs. - One Canoe came from the Eastward brought a few Beaver and Deer skins, and two down the River with Deer skins and dried meat."

July 1 1790
" Moderate pleasant weather, wind variable. Men emp'd setting up our outer stockheads, making spikes and repairing Indians guns."

July 2
" Friday calm pleasant weather. - Men employed securing the Bank and prepairing to put down the Launch. The Ind. mentioned on the 27th Ult. arrived in 5 Canoes middling well gooded in Beaver, but not any Martins or Otters."

July 3
" A Gentle breeze at SW all day. and Musquetoes numerous and troublesome. Men employed putting down the Launch and packed 20 Bundles of Beaver. - Three home Guard Indians came in with a few Deer skins."

July 4
" Pleasant clear weather, wind variable. Three Canoes of Wenescaw Indians came poorly gooded. paid their debt and not one skin over. They inform me that they visited Gloster house in the Spring and traded most of their Winter hunt for ammunition and Brandy, the first they were much in want of and the latter after tasteing was very inviting."

July 5 Monday
" A Continuance of fine weather. - Men employed putting down the Launch. and finished trading and fitting out the Natives ready for going away."

July 6
" Dark cloudy weather, wind variable. - Early in the morning Mr Moore, his Mate and four of the Seamen with the Carp. went down to the Sloop in order to give her the necefsary repairs and bring her up to the house. Most of the Indians went away."

July 7
" A Strong gale at NE cloudy weather. The Men at the House employed bringing Stones from the flats in Boats to secure the Bank and Launch. also making Gallows's for hoisting up the Goods on do. - Plantation clear of trading Indians."

July 8
" Thursday a continuance of blowing weather. At times very heavy showers of rain - Men employed as yesterday."

[no date just the entry]
"Clear hot sultry weather, wind variable, in the Southern and Western quarters. - Hauled the Sein net and caught a few Tickomeg - This day saw many White Whales in the River abreast the house. - The Rivers mouth choaked with ice."

[same]
" Wind SSE a gentle breeze with clear weather. Musquetoes very plenty. Men employed in cleaning their Cabbins. Guard Room &c. Mr Moore and two of the Seamen came up from the Sloop for provisions and in the evening returned."

July 11
" Wind variable light breezes with clear weather. Performed Divine Service."

July 12 Monday
" Fine clear weather wind WSW a gentle breeze. Men employed repairing the Platforms, Gangways &c."

July 13
" Calm clear weather until the evening then a gentle breeze at NNW cloudy. Men employed brewing small Beer and Boating stones to the Bank."

July 14
" The first and middle parts clear weather, the latter cloudy and blowing fresh at NW. - Men employed hauling the Sein net along shore, no Luck of fish. At noon Mr Moore and Seamen brought the Sloop up and moored her abreast the Launch."

July 15
" Thursday a gentle breeze until noon at W then a strong gale at N and NW with heavy rain thunder and Lightening. Mr Moore and Seamen employed on board the Sloop. the others boating stones to the Bank."

July 16
" Thick foggy weather most part of the day, wind North and NE. Men employed as yesterday. - Received some green Venison from one of our Homeguard Indians."

July 17
" Most part of this day heavy rain and Thunder, wind variable. Men employed at various Jobs. - The evening being fair weather sent George Foreman and two Indian Lads in a Canoe along shore in order to set a Beacon, near Nesheepee plane for a Land mark for the Sloop, also to bring home Venison from some of our Home guard Indians, which is tenting near that place."

July 18
" Wind NNW a strong gale all last night and this morning. One of our Boats having broke from her moorings and gone a drift, sent most of the people along shore on each side the River to look for her, in the evening they returned with her without having received any damage."

July 19 Monday
" Calm pleasant weather. Mr Moore and Seamen employed on board the Sloop. - Thomas Catley making Beacon steps. Armourer repairing and cleaning fouling pieces. Taylor making cloth'g? for the men. the others at necefsary Jobs. - Hauled the Sein net in the evening no luck of fish."

July 20
" Tuesday a fresh breeze of wind at East, with cloudy weather. Men employed as yesterday. - Geo. Foreman and the Indian Lads returned from Nesheepee plane, brought two Deer and a few Deer skins from our Home guard Indians."

July 21
" Wind variable all round the Compafs with rain at times. Men employed putting down the upper and Lower hoisting places belonging to the Launch and securing them also did many other triffling Jobs."

July 22
" Heavy rain thunder and Lightening all day. - Men emp'd indoors at various necefsary Jobs, such as repairing the Sloops sails, strapping blocks, repairing hunting guns, Brewing small Beer &c."

July 23
" Wind W and NW a moderate breeze with drizzling rain most part of the day. - Men employed repairing the Platforms and setting up the Stockheads, three Canoes of Upland Indians arrived with very few furs, they are deeply indebted at this place. - They inform me the Master at Gloster house perswaded them to trade their Furs there, and never mind paying their debt at Severn, giving them at the same time largely neat Brandy to comply with his request, some of the Indians that was not so very desirous of Liquor reserved the few furs they brought at a distance from the house, know well that their Canoe mates when sober, would be glad of their so doing, having great intentions to fulfill their promise of last Summer to me to bring a great many Skins to Severn. - Late in the even'g three of our Homeguard Indians came in with a fine quant'y of half dried meat and a bout forty made beaver in Deer skins."

July 24
" Thick hazy weather, wind variable, Men employed painting the Sloops bottom &c. also doing sundry Jobs about the house."

July 25
" Calm pleasant weather. - Trading Indians went away and received a promise from them to return next Summer if they lived well gooded in furs. My Packetmen returned from Albany with the agreable news of all being well there."

July 26 Monday
" NNW a strong gale with a continuance of heavy rain all day. - Men at necefsary Jobs indoors - Mr Whitford very much out of order with pains all over his body."

July 27
" Wind and weather much the same as yesterday - Emp'd overhauling the Trading Goods, Stores and Provisions. also brought three Boat Load of stones to the Bank in order to secure it from falling. Mr Whitford as yesterday."

July 28
" The weather more moderate, sent 10 men down the River to set the offing Beacons. In the evening they returned not being able to get any more set than one. Brew'd Beer for the Sloops Voyage. - Four Canoes of Upland Indians arrived middling well gooded. Mr Whitford continues very ill."

"A Copy of a Letter from Mr John Thomas Chief at Moose Fort - Dated 6th July 1789."

" Dear Sir
Having been informed by Mr Jarvis of his intention to dispatch a Packet to the Northward, I do myself the pleasure of enquiring after the welfare of our friends towards that quarter, and at the same time inform them of our circumstances here.
The Sea Horse Captain Tunstal, and the Beaver Sloop Captain John Richards arrived here the 15th Aug. last. On the 10th of September, the two Vefsels left Moose Roads. The Moose Cargo amounted to 5939 1/6 - that of East main 6914 MBeaver.
Our fall Goose hunt proved very unfavourable from a scarcity of Geese, and the early approach of Winter. which forced our Home Guards to their Winter quarters. Towards its close an unhappy affair happened at our Hannah Bay Goose tent, that has injured the Honourable Company's trade. The particulars of this unfortunate transaction are enclosed. - Our scanty fall hunt was however in some degree made amends for by an unusual number of Partridges. - Many of our Home Guard have been starving a great part of the Winter, and few or none have paid their debts, the great depth of snow, and scarcity of Martens, having rendered the Winter fur hunt very unpropitious. To add to this ill fortune, we have lost two or three Inland Leaders by sudden deaths. We hope however their Gangs? will be retained by a new Settlement lately advanced near their hunting ground.
Great numbers of Geese appeared here in the Spring, but the necefsity of sending most of our hunting Indians Inland with early supplys for our Settlements has deprived us of the advantage we might have reaped by their plentiful numbers.
Our River cleared of ice the 19th May, since which the number of Upland Canoes that commonly visit us has been lefs than usual, so that if our dependance on the new Inland Settlement is deceived, our trade will fall far short of its usual amount. It is at present about 4000 made beaver only.
By the last Letters from Eastmain, I hear Mr Atkinson enjoyed but an indifferent state of health. it is uncertain what his trade at present is. - We have all here enjoyed a tollerable good share of that blefsing health; with wishes that you have been equally happy in that and every other enjoyment I conclude with afsurance of being
Your Obedient Humble Servant
John Thomas
Our Compliments to the Gentlemen around your table."


"Particulars respecting the murder of William Appleby late Master of the Moose Shallop at Hannah Bay the 18th Oct. 1788.
Suckimay an Indian came to the Goose tent about eight 8 oClock in the morning of the above mentioned day to take powder and Shot for hunting, and in consequence of an invitation from the deceased went with his Wife aboard the Shallop, where they all remained drinking 'till dark, when the deceased, the Indian and his Wife all went ashore together in the Indians Canoe, the former as well as the latter in a drunken distracted condition. After remaining in the Willows with them, some time during which he was very importunate with the Woman, he was much ado perswaded to come into the Tent, and the man and Woman accompanied him. After remaining a short time in the Tent, the deceased took an opportunity while the man was in the tent to entice the Woman into the Willows, and the man on going out to look for her, and not finding her, was thrown into a fit of rage and Jealousy and John Norn happening to go out at this Juncture, he fired at him as he was standing at the corner of the Tent, and the deceased who was Just returned seeing Norn come in wounded, run out of the tent to apprehend the Indian who in the mean time had loaded his gun, and on the deceased's advancing to him, he discharged the whole contents in his breast.
I had proposed for the deceased to go to Hannah Bay to hunt foxes, after he had returned with the Shallop, and in consequence had permitted him to take up two Gall. of Rum, which I had sealed up, and he agreed should (together with a Gallon of Brandy that I had intended for him and a partner) be delivered to Robt. Folsters care, 'till he returned again, because it would be inconvenient for him to carry it overland. but he could not withstand the strong propensity he had to drinking, but broached the Rum the day before the Shallops arrival at Hannah Bay and used it to his own destruction."

" A Copy of a Letter from Mr John McNab Chief at Albany Fort dated 27th June 1790."

" Dear Sir
Yours of the 1st Instant I received yesterday by your Indians.
Mr Jarvis left us the 5th of September and with Mr Thomas from Moose sailed for England on board the Sea Horse Captain John Richards the 15th idem? with above 15000 MBeaver from hence.
Last fall an inundation of Canadians encircled our Inland Settlements, and one sat down within a few yards of one of the Stations Cat Lake; Five days ago I had Letters from the several Masters with unpleasing news of their Rivals influence, they did not then exceed 8000 among them all and there is not now above 4000 in the Fort. A Compliment is already appointed for another post, and if my wishes are attained one more will be effected, before the Winter sets in. - Upwards of 20,000 Beaver in goods have been sent since our River opened (which was on the 11th of May without any deludge) for these designs.
Commiscatew and Sons visited us in April last, I then had no knowledge of their debts with you, they said it was reserved at their hunting ground, neverthelefs they paid 23 Beaver in part here and wanted debt which I would not consent to, of course you will receive the remainder next Winter. Hakakewop not in your List also paid 10 Beaver of your debts, the others shall pay if they come here.
In behalf of the several Gentlemen I offer their respects to yourself and Officers, united with those of Dear Sir
Your Obedient Humble Servt. John McNab."

July 29
" Thursday a continuance of drizzling rain, wind variable. Mr Moore and Seamen employed on board the Sloop, the others gathering Lime stone along shore. Mr Whitford and William Gouling very ill."

July 30
" Wind SSW a fresh breeze with showers of rain most part of the day. - Men employed on board the Sloop and breaking Lime stone. Mr Whitford and Gouling as yesterday. - Trading Indians went away."

July 31
" Clear pleasant weather, wind South. Men employed packing furs, by which I find your Honours trade at Severn this year amounts to [blank space]"

Aug. 1 1790
" Thick foggy weather nearly all day. wind ENE. - Performed Divine Service. - Mr Whitford continues very ill, but Gouling something better. Received 4 young Live Geese from an Indian man also three Joints of Venison."

Aug. 2 Monday
" The first part of this day thick hazy weather, the middle and latter parts fine clear sun shine. - Put on board the Cargo and Mr Moore and Seamen embarked in order to make the Sloop ready for Sea. - This day engaged two Indian Lads to hunt for the House in the Sloops abscence."

Aug. 3
" Tuesday Heavy rain all day without the least intermifsion. Men employed on board the Sloop and ashore at triffling Jobs. Mr Whitford continues much the same as before very ill. -"

Aug. 4
" Wind NNW a moderate breeze - with clear wr. at times. Employed at various necefsary Jobs. - In the evening haul'd the Sein net caught a few fine Tickomeg."

Aug. 5
" Pleasant clear weather wind variable. - About noon Mr Moore and Seamen went down with the Sloop and anchored her abreast the Big Beacon, in order to go to Sea with the first fair wind. - He has my orders to get the outer Beacon set whilst he lays there. - Received 6 Joints of Venison from a Home guard Indian. Mr Whitford as before."

Aug. 6
" Wind NbW a moderate breeze with cloudy weather. Employed stowing the Lime-kiln and doing other Jobs. Mr Whitford still continuing very ill. I have sent him on board the Sloop, so that he may be able to get the advice of the Surgeon at York Factory. - Poor man ever since his arrival at Severn, he hath kept his health but very poorly, and in consequence was little able to give me any afsistance in Writing or Warehouse duty."

Aug. 7
" Wind NbW a moderate breeze with thick hazy weather. Employed attending the Lime-kiln and putting the Scythes in order ready for cutting Grafs. - Intending to embark in the Sloop to morrow morning. I have thought proper to deliver the charge of the House to John Jones a steady sober young man, the following persons are to stay with him. John Jennings Writer - Tho. Flett Taylor. - Tho. Catley Sailor, John Taylor Labourer - and James Halcro Mr Ballanden's Servant.
Received of Mr John Ballanden for the Honourable Hudson's Bay Company the Charge of Severn House with the Trading Goods, Stores and Provisions as pr Account Book to be sent home this year as Witnefs my hand
John Jones
Errors Excepted
John Ballanden."

" Copy of a Letter from Mr Will. Jefferson Chief at Churchill Factory dated 29th March 1790"

" Dear Sir
Your kind Letter dated Sept. 6 I received by the safe arrival of our Sloop on the 20th Sept. after a very disagreeable pafsage.
I congratulate you on your safe arrival at York Factory last year with so good a Trade I hope my trade this Year will not be lefs than last. Several Northern Indians informing me last Year that many are to be here this Spring with Furrs. Country Provisions same as last Year has been and are very scarse. Thank God by the Afsiduity of the Company's Servants I have been able as yet to give full Allowance, though I fear I shall not be able to continue untill the arrival of the Ship with a supply.
Mefs Longmoore and Taylor join me in our respectful Compliments to you and Mr Moore and wishing every happinefs to attend you and all under your Command.
I Remain
Dear Sir
Your humble Servant
William Jefferson."

" A Copy of a Letter from Mr Will. Jeffeson Chief at Churchill Factory dated August 8th 1790"

" Dear Sir
Your kind Letter dated 22 Feb. I had the pleasure to receive 26th April, which gave me great satisfaction to hear you had such a short and agreeable pafsage to Severn enjoyed health and tolerable plenty of provisions. Our Spring Goose hunt only 978 Geese, at the same time thank God having got a tolerable supply of fish and Venison we have not experienced want.
Trade here little better than 3,000 MB which is I hope to be amply recompenced by a large trade next Year, Sloops trade 811 MBeaver.
Having nothing material further to add I rem'n? with my best wishes for every happinefs to attend you and all under your Command.
Dear Sir
Your humble Servant
William Jefferson.
My Mefsmates join me in our respectful Compliments to You and Mr Moore."

" A Copy of a Letter to Mr Will. Jefferson Chief at Churchill Factory dated August 22nd 1790."

" Dear Sir
Your two agreeable favours of the 29 of March & 8 of August I had the pleasure to receive on the 15th Instant.
Am happy to inform you Sir, the trade at Severn House this year has exceeded beyond my expectations, being 8374 including the after package sent home last year, and had it not been for many of my prime Indians death, and the others deserting the place I should have had a superior trade to any that ever were at Severn House.
Our Spring Goose hunt, like yours but very indifferent only 475 Geese killed chiefly for want of Hunters to attend. My Homeguard Indians are now greatly reduced to what I have known; there being only one family I can depend upon to abide at the House. With Venison and Fish I have made a tolerable shift to provide for my people, thro' the course of the Summer. The small quantity of English provisions annually sent out was soon expended in the Winter.
I am sorry to hear of your great fall in trade, and hope ere' this arrives in your hands, you have had an increase equal to your wishes.
Mr Moore joins me in our respectful comp'ts to you, and the Gentlemen at your table, wishing every happinefs to attend you, and all under your Command.
Dear Sir
Your most Obedient Humble Servant
John Ballanden."


Reel 1M134 B.198/a/39

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